Just Another Calgon Day

Look What I Can Do On Two Wheels!

2010-04-26T08:00:00.010-05:00

Garrett has been expressing an interest in learning how to ride his bike without training wheels for a few weeks now. I told Andy on Saturday that we should think about taking them off sometime in the near future. This is what I found my son doing when I came home from the Benfer Choir Contest on Saturday.

This is what he was doing on Sunday.

Just a Swinging!

2010-04-12T10:06:00.004-05:00

All of my children have enjoyed swinging on a playground but none of my children have enjoyed it as much as Garrett. He can literally go outside for hours and hours and just swing. Can't say that I mind too much!!

I shot just a few seconds of him swinging today just so I can remember our "swinging days" when this is no longer his favorite way to pass a day.

A Bluebonnet Kinda Day

2010-04-05T09:23:00.005-05:00

I just love springtime and love wild flowers along the Texas highways. One of my favorite pictures of me and my sister growing up is on Easter Sunday in the bluebonnets. Alas, with the kids it has been hit or miss on getting the pictures with the bluebonnets but I was determined this year.

I get a little nervous stopping alongside of the road with 5 kids so I decided to go to Washington on the Brazos state park. The kids could see the birthplace of Texas and I could walk among the bluebonnets with no worries of cars. Well, walking is what we did. Andy and I went there in college to look at the bluebonnets and apparently the field is a little farther than I remembered. Me and my new heeled sandals did not like the about mile walk round trip to the bluebonnets and I have the blisters this morning to prove it.

But it was a beautiful day. We saw beautiful flowers and a bunny. How approriate is that for Easter Sunday. The awesome picture of all 5 kids together will have to wait - I just could not get them to all look at the same time. But I did get some nice ones of them individually. Enjoy!

Here's Brittany

My Allison

Caitlyn Rose

Garrettman

Brandon Paul

Doesn't Brandon look like he thinks is Momma is crazy for making him pose for these pictures?

This is as good as it got with all the kids.

One of Andy and me for good measure.

The State Flower of Texas

A bunny on Easter Sunday - what a perfect treat!

Our Newest Addition

2010-01-18T06:48:00.011-06:00

Apparently, hell has not frozen over, but people who have known me for a long time might think that is has. We have a new member of the Prewitt family and her name is Maggie. And she is of the 4 legged variety.

Anyone who knows me knows that I don't like dogs and that I never wanted one. So, why has Maggie joined our family. I can give you six reasons why - Andy, Brittany, Allison, Caitlyn, Garrett and Brandon. While I might not have a love for 4 legged creatures - it appears that rest of my family does. So, after a lot of praying and debating, I agreed to have a dog enter our lives.

The kids found out at Christmas that we were getting a dog. They were then taught a little patience as we had to wait a few weeks to pick her out. We were going out of town three times in a few weeks so it seemed like the best thing to do was wait. So, we came home from my cousins wedding yesterday and we were off to the SPCA as soon as Brandon awoke from his nap.

One of my biggest fears when we got there was that I would have 5 children pick 5 different dogs and a fight would start over which dog would become the beloved family pet. To my pleasant surprise, all 5 children and daddy agreed on the same dog. Even more surprising, they all thought that the name she already had, Maggie, was perfect. Could this get any more heaven sent?

We got a bit of surprise at that moment. Everything I read on-line said that the adoption process would take 3-5 days to complete. Well, Maggie it would seem, was ready to go right then. YIKES!! We had nothing for a dog and it is late on Sunday and PetsMart is closing. We decided to make the best of it and loaded Maggie into the van and headed home. We had a little bit of dog food from the shelter and my friend, Cathy, loaned us a crate and Maggie is now at home. Obviously, there will be a major run to the pet store today!

The kids are in heaven, daddy's is heaven (he has waited for 13 years of marriage for this moment) and well, mommy is hoping to get there!! The dog fear in me cannot leave overnight but am I going to give it my best shot to fall in love with Maggie. Wish me some luck!

Without letting another moment pass, let me introduce you to Maggie.

Here she is at the SPCA with the kids while we are waiting in line to adopt her.Allison's lifelong dream is fulfilled - a dog for her to love.

Brittany and Allison with Maggie - did I mention how long the line was - I guess that is a good thing lots of animals being adopted.

Gotta stretch those legs!

Do you like my profile?

So, here is to our new life with Maggie, may God bless us with a wonderful life with a wonderful dog.

Accidentally

2010-01-08T11:45:00.002-06:00

Some days I just smile at the things that come out of my children's mouth. Other days, well, let's not talk about that.

This morning Garrett came down the stairs and went potty. He then told me his pants were wet. I asked if he had an accident and he replied, "I had an accidentally on the stairs".

Making my Lunch!

2009-11-05T08:01:00.003-06:00

To say that Brandon has a sweet tooth would be quite an understatement. He loves everything sweet and unfortunately not too much in between. He has been obsessed with candy since Halloween and I never seem to be able to put it high enough since he is quite the climber. I caught him today packing his lunch for school.

I think he is going to be a disappointed little boy today when he opens his lunch box and finds that I replaced the candy with a peanut butter sandwich and a banana.

Toddler Logic

2009-10-30T06:30:00.006-05:00

In honor of Brandon's 2nd birthday, I thought I would give you some of the toddler logic he came up with the other day.

He wanted something and was whining so I said, "Brandon say the magic word."

Brandon smiled and said "MINE!!"

I think he will fit right in the two year old world!

Happy Birthday to my very special boy!

The Momma Buys It and The Toddler Takes It Away

2009-09-21T15:01:00.003-05:00

As I previously mentioned, I went several months this year without a camera. My camera just disappeared on July 4th. I haven't seen it since. I'm still not sure if some child got a hold of it or what. Anyway, I finally decided since school was starting that I needed to get a new camera. My camera that disappeared was not even a year old so that was a hard pill to swallow.

I spent quite a bit of time researching and finally decided to spend a little more money and get the camera with a bigger zoom. I love getting close-ups of my children. I haven't even had my new camera for a month and I'm sad to say - it is no longer working.

How can a camera less than a month old stop working you ask? I guess it would have to do with the purse being left on the table. A certain toddler found the purse, goes through it, takes camera and dunks it a glass of water. The camera still turns on but there is water inside of it and it will not focus on a picture. Do you think I can convince the guys at Best Buy that this wasn't my fault and should be covered under warranty? Yea, probably not.

I think maybe I'm supposed to be learning that I am not supposed to become attached to worldly goods. I should be pretty good at this by now. It seems every time I get something nice or new or clean my house, etc. one of my precious angels on earth finds a way to break, destroy or mess it up. Obviously, I still have a way to go because I'm pretty bummed about the camera.
Here's hoping the folks at Best Buy will take pity on me.

Garrett's 1st soccer game

2009-09-15T21:00:00.010-05:00

I guess, technically, Garrett's 1st soccer game was a long time ago. Here he is enjoying one of the many soccer games he has been at through his 4 years.
Today, was the 1st day that Garrett got to join the rankings of a soccer player. Here are some photos of his 1st game.

Ready for action.

Put me in Coach, I was born for this game.
Watch me kick-off.

I'm fast, I can catch you.I can throw the ball in too.Whether Garrett becomes a true soccer player like Allison is yet to be seen, but it was fun to watch the little boy who has been sitting on the sidelines cheering his sister's on, finally get his chance!!

Email

2009-09-15T20:55:00.003-05:00

I was working with Caitlyn on her formation this weekend. We started having a converstation about heaven. She proceded to ask me what heaven was like which, of course, I have no good answer for since her guess is as good as mine.

Her response made me smile though. "Momma, when you get to heaven, can you send me an email and tell me what it is like."

I'd like for someone to send me that email too.

MIA

2009-09-12T16:09:00.001-05:00

I know, I know. I haven't posted in a very long time. It started out with no camera so there were no pictures to post. Then, it just became my daily life that didn't allow for much more than a facebook status update.

The sad state of affairs is that it has even taken me several tries to send this message out. I now have a new camera and hopefully will be able to find a few minutes to occasionally put a little bit of my life down for the blog world to see.

All in a Days Work

2009-05-18T08:09:00.005-05:00

I don't know what it is with this time of the year but it seems like we are hopping from one kids activity to another. This Saturday was no exception as we had our 1st swim meet of the year and Brittany's piano recital.

Here are the 1st place 6 and under girls relay team getting ready for action.

Here is Allison edging out the competition on the breaststroke with an All-star's time!

Brittany on the last leg of her 50 yd breaststroke. Gotta love those 50's!

Caitlyn showing off her backstroking skills!

When then hopped out of the pool, made ourselves look beautiful and headed over for Brittany's piano recital.

Here she is playing Stars and Stripes Forever.

Some Like it HOT!

2009-05-12T15:11:00.010-05:00

Today was Benfer's annual field day. It was Brittany's last year and Caitlyn's first year of field day. Although, I still miss the way we did field day in my day - three-legged races, potato sack races - you get the idea. I must say a good day was had by all. Even Brandon was a near perfect Angel. Here are some of the pictures from this hot, fun day!

What's field day without a little tug-o-war!

According to the kids, the best part of field day is the water!!A few push-ups to get us ready for the rope climb.

Even Garrett took part in the rope climb.Gotta love the obstacle course.

Of course, one of the best things about field day are the friends.

Boy, field day can be so exhausting!

Where, Oh Where Did My Baby Go?

2009-05-06T08:03:00.003-05:00

I learned after Garrett got his 1st hair cut that boys just don't look like babies anymore once their hair is cut. I just wasn't quite ready to face this with Brandon so I have been putting off getting his hair cut because, well because, Mommy just didn't want to.

I was starting to get a lot of questions on when I was going to cut Brandon's hair and comments about how he needed a hair cut so I decided it was time Mommy got over it and took him in.

I was a little nervous on how Brandon would do. He can be known to throw quite the fit and really doesn't like other people touching him so I wasn't sure how it would go down. Well, let me tell you -- he was almost perfect. It is amazing what the bribe of a lollipop will do. He only fussed at the very end when they were using the clippers in even out the back. He sat on mommy's lap like a champ. I wish I had some pictures of the actual hair cut but he was on top of me so they didn't turn out.

But here he is with his new nickname "Mr. Handsome Man".

Enjoying the last of the lollipop in the car on the way home.

Sitting on the kitchen cabinet while I finish dinner.Gotta have my milk fix before I go to bed. (Yes, it is pink cup - I lose all of the new boy sippy cups but manage to always find the girl one's left from Caitlyn)The day is done, Momma, gotta take my new "do" and hit the sheets.

These are the Moments

2009-04-24T10:50:00.006-05:00

There is a country song out and the chorus has this line:

These are the moments when I thank God that I'm alive

That is how I felt this morning at 3:30 am. It was a simple gesture of love from my 3 year old that reminded me that life is good and I'm glad I'm living it.

Garrett came into my room and said he had to go potty. He went and then requested that I carry him back to bed. I obliged although I was secretly cursing my wasted sleep as I staggered half asleep into his room. I laid him down, tucked him back in and was walking out of the room when he called out.

"Mommy, you're my best friend"

I don't know why it struck me so much at that moment but it just reminded me that even though my children drive me crazy this is really all I've ever wanted and I have been blessed enough to have it and I could not ask for more.

Each Of Us Is A Flower

2009-04-22T15:20:00.003-05:00

I have been to Kindergarten Round-up 6 out of the last 7 years. I, basically, have gone twice for each one of the girls. Once for when they were going into kindergarten and once when they were kindergartners so I can hear them sing. The same 3 songs have been sung at each one of these round-ups but I have to tell you I don't mind. I love them. Even though, I hear this song in my house all of the time (since all 3 girls know it) I still had a few tears when Caitlyn sang it today.

Life sometimes amazes me. I mean, Caitlyn was just a little baby the first time I heard this song. I was taking Brittany to her kindergarten round-up. But here she is singing it herself to the kindergartner class of 2010.

Anyway, here she is singing "Each of Us is a Flower". She is kinda hidden. The mommy in me wanted to go on stage and move the girl hiding her but I did refrain.

I guess I only have "4" kindergarten round-ups to go!

Benfer Choir Performance

2009-04-17T07:55:00.004-05:00

Brittany had her choir performance last night. I thought it was so cool that she sang a song that I sang in the Elementary School Choir when I was a kid. She is on the 2nd row on the left side.

Here is Brittany showing off her ribbon skills.

A few weeks ago the choir performed at the Children's Music Festival. This is Brittany showing off her trophy that was won for the school.

While the Cats Away . . .

2009-03-26T14:19:00.003-05:00

I sometimes do wonder how babies make it to adulthood. Today, I was trying to help Garrett find his shoes for school (still haven't found them by the way - had to wear dress shoes to school). I had left Brandon downstairs while I searched Garrett's closet. This is what I found when I got downstairs a few minutes later. Crawled up there all by himself.

Yes, sometimes we just have to stop and take a picture!
And what did Brandon put in the gallon of milk.Foot Loops, of course! Anyone want a glass of milk?

Who Needs Underwear?

2009-03-24T17:22:00.002-05:00

I have been trying to get Garrett to get himself ready in the morning for quite awhile. He usually puts up quite the fight but he had been doing better the last few mornings. Garrett is quite creative when it comes to his "chosen" attire. He can be spotted most mornings with his sister's shoes on, two different shoes on, different colored socks, etc. I have pretty much gotten over the fact that he doesn't match and thinks pink is his favorite color. I guess this is what happens when you have 3 older sisters. What happened today; however, is where I draw the line.

We were on our way to school when Garrett informs me that he has on NO underwear. What, no underwear - how did that happen?!?! And then I remember that he got himself dressed today with no help from me and without me even being in the room. So, there was a strong possibility that he did have NO underwear. What to do, what to do? I then remembered that I had his bag with a change of clothes in it. So, we stopped, put his underwear on and he got a big lecture on that he couldn't have an accident at school today because we had just used his underwear in his bag.

Well, apparently, the lecture took because Garrett told ever adult at the preschool today that he had NO underwear and his mommy told him he better not have an accident. Oops! The good news is that we still had the same pair of underwear on when I picked him up. Lesson learned - check the 3 year old to make sure the underwear is on before leaving for school!

What 3 Year Olds Say

2009-03-14T14:45:00.002-05:00

This morning, Garrett was in bed with Andy and I (accident in the middle of the night - but I wont go there). Anyway, he looks at me and says, "My tummy has a headache."

Gotta hate those tummy headaches.

Crusing the Carribean!

2009-02-27T09:48:00.003-06:00

After about 3 years of dreaming, Andy and I finally got to take our long awaited 10th anniversary trip. We went on a 5 day cruise just the two of us - no kids and I must say it was so nice. We got to talk, read, relax, sleep and be waited on hand and foot. No noses to wipe, home work to check, meals to cook, fights to break up. It was a little piece of heaven. Here are some of the highlights.

Nothing like a good book on a cruise.

Time for some lobster on formal night.

Get ready, get set, go - on our mini jeep tour on the beach.

Love the view from the lighthouse in Cozumel.The ship behind me in Progreso, Mexico.

My dream - riding horseback on the beach.

Relaxing on the beach in Progreso!Enjoying a drink on the last day at sea.Our cute towel animals that greeting us everyday!

Happy 11th Birthday Brittany!

2009-02-17T14:33:00.003-06:00

It is hard to believe but it has been 11 years since my first born child was born. Where does the time go? I guess the answer to that would be the raising of 5 children!

I started the tradition of taking lunch for my kids to the elementary school on their birthday when Brittany was in kindergarten. I have to admit, I was so not feeling it today. I waited in line for an hour to register Garrett for preschool next year, Brandon was fussy and I have so much to do before Andy and I leave on Saturday. Part of me was just cursing this tradition that I started so many years ago.

Then it hit me. This was going to be my LAST Birthday lunch with Brittany at Benfer. Last time I checked, middle school kids were not to hip on their momma's having lunch with the them at school. So, I decided to not worry about what was not getting done and how grumpy Brandon was and enjoy my moment with Brittany. I must say it was hectic but the best birthday lunch ever. So, happy birthday to my precious Brittany Marie. Thanks for having lunch with me.

The new 11 year old!

Brittany and Mom at lunch

My New Dishwasher

2009-02-01T19:15:00.003-06:00

I have been without a dishwasher for over a week now. I will be honest, I DO NOT like washing dishes by hand. My philosophy is that EVERYTHING goes into the dishwasher. Okay, I will admit I do wash my crystal by hand but that is it everything else goes in. If it doesn't survive, then it doesn't belong in my house.

So, you can imagine that the past week has been quite difficult. The kids have all been helping out. Tonight, we just had a few dishes so I thought I would let just Caitlyn and Garrett do them. Well, in the end, I had more water on the floor than in the sink. It is probably a very good thing, my real new dishwasher will be arriving this week.

My dishwashers

Mommy's helpers?

Where's God?

2009-02-01T18:50:00.002-06:00

We had to go to 7:30 Mass this morning because Allison was playing in a soccer tournament. We had a pretty good view of the altar and Garrett was actually paying a little attention. The altar server then got in front of Father Norbert so Fr. Norbert could read from the book.

Garrett very sweetly tapped me on the shoulder and said, "I can't see God anymore."

Ahhh, 3 year olds - aren't they the cutest.

Psycho Toy

2009-01-22T08:02:00.002-06:00

Imagine you are fast asleep, it is 5 AM and your early rising baby has not woken up. You are in the middle of a great dream when you are awoken by a sound. You immediately assume that it is the baby and start to get up. But that giggling sound you are hearing is not human. You strain to figure it out in your sleepy state when you realize that it is a toy that has gone crazy.

Has this every happened to you? For some strange reason, one of the 1000's of battery operated toys you have in your house decides to go off in the middle of the night. It is enough to drive me crazy. Especially this morning.

I got up and walked to the game room and the toy stopped. I really wasn't sure what toy it was or where it could be so I just went back to bed. A few minutes later, the toy starts giggling again. This time Andy walks into the game room to try and find it. Once again, the toy stops making the sound as soon as he gets in there. He tries to figure out where it could be in the dark but realizes he is going to wake up all of the kids with his noise so he comes back to bed.

So, we get back comfortable and close our eyes and there it goes again. This time Brandon starts crying too. I start huffing and puffing about the darn toy and Andy is like I can't find it. By the grace of God, Brandon does go back to sleep. This is when Andy decides to out smart the toy and lays down on the couch waiting for the toy's next move. A few minutes later the toy goes off again but it has been outsmarted and Andy immediately spots it and puts it and us out of misery!

Of course, Andy and I never did get back to sleep so I am not sure who won - the toy or us!

Maybe later!

2009-01-18T07:30:00.002-06:00

I was having some trouble getting Garrett to stay in his room last night. I finally told him, "If you go to bed now and don't come out I will snuggle with you in the morning".

So, at 1:40 AM, I hear foot steps in my room. I look up and there is Garrett smiling "I'm ready for my snuggle time Mommy".

I have to admit I kinda smiled as I walked him back to his room and told him to come see me in about 5 hours!!

Which he did by the way! Nothing like a little snuggle time (as long as it is not in the middle of the night!)

These Feet were made for WALKING!

2009-01-10T12:21:00.003-06:00

After 14 1/2 months, Brandon is finally trying out this walking thing. Here is a video just so he can show off a little.

The Black Hole

2009-01-10T07:55:00.008-06:00

I looked up the definition of a black hole this morning and this is what I found.

Black hole, in astronomy, celestial object of such extremely intense gravity that it attracts everything near it and in some instances prevents everything, including light, from escaping.

I have decided that the toilet is a black hole to Brandon. When the lid is left opened, the gravitational pull is so strong that it beckons him from wherever he is in the house. It pulls him and whatever objects he can find and he is forced to throw everything in the "hole".

I am constantly running around the house trying to keep bathroom doors closed and toilet seats down. But, even the best of us get distracted at times.

This morning, for instance, I was watching the beautiful video on Angie's blog of her beloved daughter, Audrey Caroline. Tears are just streaming down my face and I am oblivious to the 5 children around me. That is until Brandon comes crawling into the room and he is all wet. Oh no, what did you do? I ran into the bathroom and found that the black hole had pulled everything from the end table in the living room into it. Luckily, a certain flusher and not been touched yet and everything was able to be retrieved. The joys of motherhood!

Doing it Right the First Time

2009-01-09T14:00:00.002-06:00

I was putting Garrett down from his nap today when I noticed his clean clothes from yesterday jammed into the corner of the bed against the wall. As I was mumbling to myself about why his sisters don't do things right the 1st time, I got to thinking. How many times do I take the easy way out knowing it will just cause me more work down the line.

Yesterday, for instance, I spent most of the day cleaning out my pantry. How could one's pantry get so disorganized one might ask. Well, I can blame it on my children. Especially, a little 14 month old boy who thinks his favorite thing to do is find an open pantry door and pull everything off the shelves. But truth be told, I have a lot of the blame too. There are so many times I just throw something in there when I am in a hurry thinking I will put it where it goes later. Well, we all know later never comes and in a blink of an eye or organized pantry turns into a disaster.

So, I guess the apples truly do not fall far from the tree. I'd like to say that I am turning over a new leaf and everything will be done right the first time. Thus, leading a wonderful example for my children. I will be a bit more realistic and say that I am going to try my best!

Happy New Year!

2009-01-03T17:15:00.002-06:00

Okay, I will admit, I am a bit superstitious. I mean I eat my black eyed peas every New Years just in case it will bring me good luck even though I can't stand them. That being said, I am not sure I like the direction this new year is heading.

First, it was the 1st New Years in awhile that I wasn't pregnant or nursing so I was looking forward to having a little alcoholic intake. Instead, I was met with a new cold so there went that idea. Now, 2 days into New Years, a major stomach bug has hit the house and I am down with the count.

I like to relax don't get me wrong but I want to do it on my terms and certainly not for the whole day when there are things to be done. Not, when my body tells me, I'm sorry but you can't do anything today because I am not going to let you. So, today, on what was a nice day, (I had visions of going to the zoo) I have laid on my couch and my bed and watched my house that I just cleaned fall apart. I hope the Disney channel had appropriate programming on today because that is what my children have watched ALL day today. Andy doesn't seemed too bothered by laying around all day today. He is more than happy watching the football games he would have missed if we were feeling better. Maybe there is something I need to learn from all of this. A little more about going with the flow and seeing the good in everyday of your life. Maybe, I will see that good tomorrow when I am back to running around like a mad woman and just wish I had a reason to lay on the couch all day.

Any way, here is to 2009! May the Lord bless us all with good health, family and friends!

Heaven Help Me

2008-12-18T15:48:00.002-06:00

I have always known that I am going to have trouble with Caitlyn when she becomes a teenager. She has always been a very social person and just loves BOYS! She also knows nothing about personal space yet and thinks that chasing boys is the best way to spend recess.

Well, said kindergartner came home from school today announcing that she had a boyfriend, Ryan. I very nicely asked,"Oh, Ryan asked you to be his girlfriend?" She responded back "No, mommy, I asked HIM."

Making the 1st move already at kindergarten, heaven help me!!

Do You Ever?

2008-12-15T13:06:00.003-06:00

Do you ever know you should go check on your kids but don't because you are trying to get something accomplished?

Well, that was me this afternoon. The boys were eating their lunch and I needed to send out a few quick emails. While in my heart I knew the laughter coming from the kitchen could not be a good thing, I chose to ignore it and finish my email before going in.

What did I find? Garrett had pour the chicken noodle soup all over Brandon's high chair tray and Brandon was slashing in it with this hands. They, of course, thought it was hilarious. Mommy thought the clean-up was not so hilarious. Oh well, we will just chalk it up for another lesson learned in the life of a mother.

Let it SNOW! - Part 2

2008-12-10T22:03:00.004-06:00

The snow came back tonight so we let the kids play outside in the dark. It was pure heaven on their end. Who can help not enjoy a little snow on a cold, wintery night in December? Here are a few pictures so I can prove to the kids when they are older that they have seen snow.

Let is SNOW!

2008-12-10T16:11:00.003-06:00

Okay, I will be the first to admit that it wasn't much and it barely shows up in the pictures but for this Houston girl - it was pretty exciting.

Those tiny white dots are snowflakes.

I think I can catch a snowflake!

Gate, What Gate?

2008-12-04T09:13:00.004-06:00

The purpose of a baby gate at the bottom of the stairs is to give you piece of mind that your child will not go up the stairs when you are not watching and accidentally fall down. While our baby gate is not in the best shape (it is amazing what children do to this thing), it should serve it's purpose and keep Brandon down stairs. One would think anyway! This is what I caught Brandon doing while I was trying to vacuum downstairs.

Our gate ready for action. No baby is getting through me!

Brandon's actions when he realizes one of his siblings took the bottom bolt out.Whatcha looking at Momma?!?Oh well, what's a mom do to!

Why is it?

2008-12-01T21:01:00.002-06:00

Why is it that you cannot make all 5 of your children happy at the same time? Case in point, this evening. I made Sloppy Joes for dinner. A favorite in this house - that is if you don't count Garrett. While everyone else is telling me that I am a culinary genius, Garrett is whining "I don't like it, I don't like it".

Then, later on, we were doing our Advent Chain for the night. Tonight's activity was to draw a picture expressing what Christmas means to you. I happen to know it is one of Allison's favorite Advent Chain days. Of course, what happened, Caitlyn cried, "This is boring!" So, we sat around drinking our hot chocolate, drawing our pictures, with her whining in the background. She did finally decide to join in and then she was upset that she couldn't finish her's before bedtime. I QUIT - I tell ya!

It doesn't matter if it is movie night, game night, out-to-eat night. Whatever the special occasion, someone has to be disappointed with the choice that was made. I guess this is what I get for giving birth to 5 completely different people. It is enough some days to make this mom give up. But somewhere deep inside, I have this idea that someday, somehow my kids are going to realize how much time and effort I put into their childhood and thank me. Or at least I hope so!

Have Trailer, We'll Travel!

2008-11-25T14:38:00.002-06:00

The seven of us fit just fine in our mini van for day trips. The only problem with our big family is when the trip isn't so little. The seven of us might fit but our luggage doesn't. Therefore, anytime we are gone for longer than a weekend, a white trailer follows behind us wherever we go!

Squirettes Investiture

2008-11-23T18:09:00.004-06:00

This afternoon, St. Ignatius had the investiture for the Charter Class of the Squirettes Circle. This is a youth group for young girls in the Catholic Church. It is the very first circle west of the Mississippi River and we have very proud to have Brittany be a member. She will hopefully learn a lot as she works with other young ladies to serve others and the Catholic Church.

Here is the whole charter class.

Brittany smiling pretty

Isabel, Abby, Brittany and Erin

Family Bonding

2008-11-22T09:56:00.004-06:00

This is what I am greeted with on a cold Saturday morning. Me thinks we need a bigger bed!

Weapon of Mass Destruction

2008-11-14T09:30:00.002-06:00

Would someone please explain to Brandon that the vacuum cleaner is NOT a weapon of mass destruction! He is so afraid of the vacuum cleaner. He just screams the second I turn it on and tries to climb up my leg. It is taking me at least triple the time to get the house vacuumed because I have to keep stopping and pick him up. He, of course, is just too big for me to carry the whole time so I put him down after awhile which leads to more screaming. I can vacuum the downstairs with him asleep but it wakes him up if I vacuum the upstairs during his nap.

What is a mom to do? I guess I can just use this as the reason that my floor is dirty, right. I mean I wouldn't want to permanently scar him for life.

Garrett, on the other hand, thinks the vacuum cleaner is great and keeps wanting "his turn". My question is why does this "helping" end right about the time they can actually be helpful. I never see Brittany or Allison wanting to vacuum.

Here's hoping I can vacuum my house in peace soon. Please no one tell President Bush about my stockpile of weapons!!

Where Was I?

2008-11-13T17:45:00.004-06:00

Okay, I caught the bug from Katie. Here it goes

1 minute ago: Reading Katie's blog

1 Day ago: Took the boys to playgroup and was secretly excited that it was raining and we wouldn't have soccer practice

1 week ago: Brandon was running a fever so I was mostly holding an unhappy baby.

1 month ago: Trying to get ready for a month of 3 birthday parties for my children

1 year ago: We had a newborn baby, Brandon, in the house.

3 years ago: Garrett was 2 months old. Allison had just started kindergarten and Brittany was in 2nd grade.

5 years ago: Brittany had just started kindergarten and Caitlyn had just turned 1!

7 years ago: Andy had just received a job offer at Lucia in Houston and we were getting our house ready to put on the market in Temple. Andy was finishing off his 2 weeks notice. Brittany was 3 and Allison was 2!

10 years ago: Brittany was 9 months old and we went for a weeks vacation in Port Aransas in November. Gosh, one child - I really can't remember.

Anyone else want to play??

Mommy PLEASE!!

2008-11-05T08:22:00.004-06:00

Anyone who knows me, knows that I am not an animal person. I just didn't grow up with pets and I really am not fond of a cat or dog licking or crawling over me. (I get that enough with 5 children!) Andy and several of my children feel differently, however. So, I am starting slowly on the pet stage and we have tried fish and now have hermit crabs. The dog will have to wait a few more years.

My children are not satisfied, though. My neighbor's dog had puppies a month ago and it is now all my children talk about. Mommy, can we please have a puppy!!! Well, the answer for now is going to have to be NO! My agreement with Andy is that we cannot have a baby in the house when we get a dog. I must say though, if I wasn't a strong woman, I might have caved. They are awfully cute. Maybe I could be an animal lover!!

You Can Have Cake and Eat It Too!

2008-11-05T08:13:00.003-06:00

We had a family birthday party for Brandon on Sunday. The highlight of any 1st birthday is, of course, the cake. After Garrett cried and refused to eat his cake when he turned 1, I was hoping Brandon wouldn't let us down. He didn't. I wished I had video taped it because the pictures don't do the event justice. He just laughed and smile the whole time!

Happy Halloween

2008-11-05T08:02:00.003-06:00

It has been a busy few days so I haven't had time to post the pictures yet from this weekend. Here are the kids for Halloween. Brandon wasn't overly impressed but I'm sure by next year he will be saying "trick or treat". Mackenzie and Reagan joined us along with some friends in the neighborhood. Minus the mosquitoes it was a good time!!

Mommas don't let your babies grow up to be cowboys!!

Brittany and her friend, Abby, as Egyptian princesses.My little Indian girl!Have you ever met a child more suited for the role of Tinkerbell?

Happy 1st Birthday Brandon Paul!!

2008-10-30T09:44:00.006-05:00

Has it truly been a year since you have come into our lives sweet Brandon Paul? That is the funny thing about time. When you are living in the day to day of constant nursing and no sleep, it seems like the days (and nights) last forever. Yet, here you are a year later and it feels like the past year happened in a blink of an eye.

Now, I wont even pretend that the last year has been a piece of cake. I am still a year later dreaming of a good night's sleep. But there is something just so special when you have a baby in the house. My favorite thing that Brandon does right now is when he hears me coming up the stairs. I will start creeping up the stairs on my hands and knees and at some point make a noise so he knows that I am there. He then shrieks for joy and crawls as fast as he can toward the gate. He then tries to get his face up to my face through the bars. It truly is pure joy on both of our hearts.

So, Happy Birthday to my cruising, crawling not quite walking toothless one year old! I thank the Lord for blessing us with you!

Oil Ranch

2008-10-22T08:04:00.004-05:00

Yesterday, Garrett's preschool class went on a field trip to the Oil Ranch. We were lucky enough that Daddy was able to take the day off and Mommy and Garrett had some special one-on-one time. Garrett really enjoyed it and kept hugging me and saying "I really like you Momma." My heart just melted which is good so I can forget all of those other "3 year old moments".

Giddy up!!

Chickens are just the right size to pet!!I might be a city boy but I've got farming in my blood!

Here is most of Garrett's class!

Do you like my pumpkin?
Must have refreshment after a hard day on the ranch!!

Happy Birthday Caitlyn!

2008-10-20T10:08:00.005-05:00

6 years ago at 12:52 pm my sweet Caitlyn Rose decided to give her big sister the best birthday present ever - her!! Caitlyn is a true testament to the saying "the best things come in small packages." She is the most spirited, sassy child you want to meet all with a heart of gold.

She had a gymnastics party this weekend. It made me realize again that I need to get Caitlyn back in gymnastics. The kids had a blast playing on all the equipment. Caitlyn truly lived for the moment and the smile never left. Here are some pictures of Caitlyn along with her family and friends at the party.

Happy Birthday Allison!

2008-10-20T10:00:00.003-05:00

9 years ago at 6:48 am, my wonderful Allison Claire came into this world. She was my climbing baby that has turned into the athlete of the family. There is never a day without a bump or bruise. She is also my most loving child and literally must be hugged and kissed about 20 times before getting on the bus and nighttime.

This weekend she had her 1st slumber party. It was lots of fun and the girls were really on their best behavior. Mommy (being the crazy woman that I am) decided to invite all the neighborhood kids to come for the 1st two hours of the party. Okay, I will admit, that part was a little insane. But Allison had a blast and that is who I do it all for. The camera was not cooperating and most of the slumber party pictures turned out blurry but here are a few.

Creative Thinking

2008-10-18T11:08:00.003-05:00

What do you do when Centerpoint Energy leaves a broken transformer in your yard for 3 weeks?

I like my neighbor's idea - you make it part of your fall decorations!! I guess we should get them some green and red paint so we can redo it for Christmas since I don't think Centerpoint is coming back!

Here Comes Trouble

2008-10-18T07:29:00.003-05:00

You would think that after 5 children that my house would be completely baby proof. I actually have found that my house is less baby proof the more children I have. Here's to mobile babies - heaven help my house!!

Terrible Three's

2008-10-16T12:25:00.002-05:00

Whoever coined the phrase "terrible two's" did a disservice to parents everywhere. You think when your child is 2 that their behavior will be getting better once they get a little older. Then, your child hits the age of 3 and you are dreaming fondling back at those terrible 2's.

Case in point, my precious Garrettman!! Anyone who knows him who'd say he is just the sweetest little boy. That was until about a month ago. I don't know if it was turning 3, the aftermath of Hurricane Ike, spending too much time with older children or a combination of all 3 but my precious angel is showing a side of him lately that is not heaven sent!!

What is a unsuspecting mom to do when her 3 year old randomly hits another lady waiting for her child at preschool? You make them apologize of course! I told Garrett to tell the nice lady that he was sorry for hitting her. She bends down to get on his level and what does my 3 year old do? He spits at her!! This is a time where this mom of 5 was at a loss for words. What could I possibly say at this moment to apologize correctly and make it abundently clear that this behavior wouldn't be accepted.

We went home and Garrett did his "time" and then we had a little talk. He said he was sorry. I then told him that he needed to say " will you forgive me?" He looked at me and with a big hug said " Mommy, I DO forgive you!" I couldn't help but smile at the missed concept but it did make me realize that how rocky this road might be - it really isn't too terrible!!

Recovering?

2008-10-16T11:23:00.002-05:00

After several people have mentioned that I need to write a post, I figured I would take a minute and do just that.

I wish I could say that I had some exciting and fun times lately and that is why I just haven't had the time to post. It's not that. It's just LIFE.

I didn't realize that after the power came on that it would actually take away for life to return to "normal". I think a lot of it has to do with the fact that school started, stopped and then started again. Then all of the kids activities just hit at once instead of easing into it. Life has been crazy to say the least.

But it got me thinking about all of the people who are really having to recover still from Hurricane Ike. I know of several families in our neighborhood who's houses have tens of thousands of dollars of damage. I'm sure they look at the rest of us who have put the pieces back to together and say "don't forget about me". Or what about all of those people who's houses were literally washed away. If it is this hard to put the pieces back together for my family what must it be like for them.

With 5 children, I really can't do all that much right now but what I can do is pray. I am going to try very hard and remember and lift this people up in prayer every day so that they can feel the loving hand of our Lord while they still recover.

And Then There Was Light

2008-09-29T09:38:00.003-05:00

Friday, September, 12th at 9:50 pm - Lights go out!

Sunday, September 28th at 3:20 pm - Lights go back on!

Okay, when the hurricane came and Centerpoint announced that it could take 2-3 weeks for people to get their power back. I literally thought to myself, "Man, that's gonna suck for those people". Never in my wildest dreams did I think that I would be one of those people.

It has been an interesting two weeks and two days without power. It has brought out the best and worst in people. There were the good things. Kids playing outside, neighbors talking, lots of walks with the kids. And then there were the bad things. No air conditioning in 90 degree heat, whining children and PARENTS, bathing children in the near dark, washing dishes by hand, dragging the laundry to everyone's house to get done, no internet, no TV . . . the list could go on and on.

I wish I could say that I had made the most of two weeks without power. There was definitely some more quality time with the kids but even after a few days I seemed to just aimlessly go about my day. I think a lot of it had to do with the uncertainty of the whole situation. In my mind, my power was going to come on any second so why did I need to hook up all of this stuff to the generator. It was hard for me to figure out each day what I wanted to accomplish even though there was plenty to do. If I had known that we would have been without power for so long, I would have done things differently. I would have set up everything right the first time instead of just piece mealing the whole house set-up. Some things I did figure out by the end of the two weeks, your vacuum cleaning and curling irons work great with the generator power. Microwaves - not so good.

The other thing I found difficult about the time with no power was how disconnected you felt with the rest of the world and even your community. When all of Houston, didn't have power it wasn't so bad. You felt a bond with them -- we are all in this together. Then slowly, one by one, all of my friends power came on. You start to feel alone. You realized they were no longer part of "the club". A club that you so desperately wanted to get out of but didn't know how. You were very happy for your friends but you just couldn't help but feel a little sad to. They were moving on and you were still there with no power. Now, I am on the other side. There are a few people in my neighborhood who did not get power yesterday. I can see the same hurt in their eyes as they realize that we are now moving on without them.

The two weeks without power were filled with peeks and valleys as far as my attitude was concerned. There were moments that I felt I could be the covergirl for how to remain calm and be optimistic about the whole thing. I had moments where I knew that the world was bigger than just me and my family. It wasn't just about me and that one day soon, the electric linemen would be on my street. There was a lot for these people to do and I needed to just be patient. And then there were the other moments. The ones where I started acting like my 3 year old jumping up and down and screaming , "It's my turn - I want my electricity and I want it now!"

Now, for a word about the electric linemen. My hats are off to them. They came from all over the country. The ones in my neighborhood were from North Carolina. I enjoyed talking to them as they ate their lunch under my shade tree. This is one of the main parts of their job is to travel to other parts of the country restoring power after a disaster. They told me that they never know when they leave when they will make it back home. They worked very hard. There was some definite down time while waiting for parts or instructions but they were doing their best to get the lights on. It didn't help that these people were asked every 5 minutes when are the lights going to come back on. Well, at 3:20 pm yesterday - it was my turn and the light came back on.

Here are some pictures from the replacement of our transformer in the backyard.

Happy Birthday Reagan!

2008-09-21T17:57:00.004-05:00

On our way out of town to Chilton, we went to Reagan's (my niece) 1st birthday party. She is a walking girl now! I have never seen a 1 year old go after the cake like she did.

Just to show that somethings don't change. On the night that Reagan was born, I watched the Aggies lose to Miami in the hospital. On the day of Reagan's 1st birthday, I watched the Aggies lose to Miami. Oh well!!

Happy 1st Birthday Reagan!!

Hurricane Ike

2008-09-21T16:22:00.008-05:00

What can I say about this storm that hasn't already been said before? Not much, but I guess I must add my thoughts and reflections also.

We lost power before the storm even hit. It was about 9:50 pm on Friday evening. Andy was watching TV. I was half asleep on the couch. It didn't blink or anything it was just gone! We moved all of the sleeping children into the gameroom and Andy and I went to bed. I must admit - I didn't really sleep. The wind was very strong and I was nervous being on the second floor of our house. I could hear every noise and wondering what was that. It didn't matter much that I wasn't sleeping because by 2 am my children were not sleeping either. Finally, daybreak happened and we surveyed the damage.

We were very lucky. Not a single tree hit our house. If you have been to our neighborhood, you know we have lots of trees. We did have a neighbor's tree hit our fence and the power line. We had tons of debris. But the important parts were: we were fine - the house was fine. Let the fun begin!

We spent Saturday in between rain showers cleaning the front of our house. It was very strange with all of the neighbors outside. Everyone had a story. Everyone had a damage report. It was nice just talking to all of the people we are normally too busy to give but a passing wave. That night it was a little warm but not too bad with the windows opened. Of course, then it started raining about 2 am so Andy and I had to run around the house closing the windows. This, of course, woke up the baby.

We were all up early so I had a brilliant idea. Let's go to 7:30 am Mass so that way when it stops raining we will be ready to tackle the back yard. Well, I guess my sleep deprivation caught up with me because I just was not paying attention and I slammed my fingers into the garage door as I was manually closing it. Can we say, PAIN?!? Two of the fingers still hurt a week later. After my screaming fit, we were on our way. We turned on Cypresswood and were surprised to find out that it was flooded. Oops - back to Louetta we go. By the time, we got to Mass, they were on the Prayers of the Faithful. It was one of those moments where the Lord must look at our intention and not necessarily at what happened.

Andy decided to check on Amanda's house after church. She was away on vacation in Germany. Much to our surprise, we found out she had power. We quickly went through the refrigerator and freezer and grabbed what was still frozen and brought it over to her house. I must say it was a sad day for this "grocery game gal". I had to throw out a lot of frozen meals and ice cream that I had recently purchased on sale at Kroger. Boohoo! We spent the rest of the day cleaning our backyard.

The rest of the week was spent hanging out with neighbors, sharing meals and information. It is amazing how people can look out for one another. Everyone was sharing what store had gas, lights, etc. Meals were cooked out together. The kids played sun up to sun down with their friends. That is the part of the aftermath of the hurricane that I liked.

The part that I do not like is that it is over a week since the storm and there is no power at my house yet. The part that is hard is that I have yet to see anyone actually working in my neighborhood to restore it. The cold front that God blessed us with after the storm has left and it is getting pretty hot. After much consideration, I decided to spend the next few days in Chilton with Andy's parents. I finally realized that the kids would have a great time and I didn't have anything to prove by staying in my hot house. I am praying that the power will be back on by Tuesday when we return. The kids have to be at school on Wednesday.

So, here's to Hurricane Ike. God bless all of those that were in his path and still dealing with his fury but may the lessons of friendship and neighborly kindness last awhile longer. Here our some of our pictures.

Here is the tree that knocked out the fence and the power line.

Here is the gate that is no longer.

Here are all of the bags of debris that we had in our yard. We were so nice and bagged everything like we were told only to to get a notice that no bags will be picked up - NICE!!Here are the rest of limbs that we didn't bag. I guess we should have done this with all of the debris.

Here is a crazy game of Sorry compliments of a camping lantern.

One of our many meals with the neighbors and friends during this. This was our clean out your freezer party.

I can tell you one thing - I will never look at a storm in the gulf the same again!

Ready or Not!

2008-09-12T18:58:00.002-05:00

The preparations have been made. There is nothing left to do but wait for Hurricane Ike. The winds are pretty strong right now but we haven't had any rain yet. After much debate, we decided to all sleep upstairs in the gameroom. We just don't really have a good inner room in our house. Brandon will be sleeping in his playpen in the game room closet. Let's hope it is a good night for all. That's something I really don't like about this storm is that it is coming in the middle of the night.

We have picked up all of the stuff outside, put the air down really low so it will be cooler for awhile after the power is off, added ice in jugs to the freezer. We have our water, food, batteries and flashlights. I guess the rest is up to Mother Nature.

I'll post pictures of the aftermath when we have power again after the storm. God protect us all!!

Garrett's 1st Day of Preschool

2008-09-08T10:33:00.002-05:00

It has taken me a few days to post these pictures of Garrett's 1st day of preschool. I guess life sometimes just gets in the way of this blogging thing. After a not so great showing at Meet-the-Teacher, Garrett did great the 1st day of school. Of course, it didn't hurt that the day was focused on him. He was the birthday snack boy and the line leader!! Not bad for a 1st day. Of course, he might not be so happy this week, when he finds out he is not the line leader EVERY day!! Here are some pictures from his 1st day. Look out educational world - here I come!

I can do this learning thing!!

Happy Birthday Garrettman!

2008-09-01T20:52:00.015-05:00

3 years ago I was given quite the surprise as the doctor announced "it's a boy!!". As a mother of 3 girls at the time, having a boy seemed a little too impossible at the time. What a 3 years it has been. Garrett is such a little boy sometimes, I just cannot even remember what is was like to have all girls. He loves his trains, cars and sports. He is my happy little boy who just wants to be a part of it all. Happy Birthday Garrettman!!

A few months ago, I had what seemed to be a brilliant idea. I wanted to do something special for Garrett's birthday but not have a kid party. I realized we had not had the opportunity to go to the beach this summer. I also realized that the kids had not been camping in over a year. I thought - let's kill 3 birds with one stone. Let's have a camping birthday party at the beach. Uhmmm, after it is all said and done - maybe there is a reason we don't kill 3 birds with one stone!

Let's just forget about the fact that I had to worry about a hurricane that was in the gulf that could ruin our plans. We had enough excitement without Gustav. It was a tad hotter than I remembered it being when camping out at Galveston before. I'm sure some of that had to do with the hurricane. But I can handle a little heat. One thing I was not expecting was the love bug invasion. I have never in my life seen so many love bugs!! It was crazy. They were all over us and everything. I don't even want to think about how many of them Brandon must have consumed while we were there. Here is a picture of them hanging out on our ice chest. Can we say "gross"!

I think I might have also underestimated how well everyone was going to sleep. We all had a great time but I think everyone was a little bit overtired. Garrett even gave himself a time out.

We couldn't keep the candles lit because of the wind. Garrett "thinks" he blew out his candles but we never got more than one lit. Garrett didn't care though - he loved his Thomas cake.

Another problem with camping, is when you have babies. There is no place to put them. We decided to put Brandon and Reagan in the pack-n-play. Brandon thought Reagan was the perfect thing to pull-up on. Obviously, this didn't last long.

It even started raining during the opening of the presents!! Have no fear - Nana and Papa rented a condo. Let's take the party indoors. It was actually a welcomed relief to have a little A/C. Garrett will no longer have to dress-up in princess attire. He got a pirates outfit, a cowboy outfit, and army outfit and an Aggie fan outfit. He is going to have to do a lot of rooting for the Aggies this year. Based on game #1 - they are going to need a lot of help.

Caitlyn decided she had enough of camping and wanted to sleep in the condo the last night. No problem, except for the fact she came to the condo in her swim suit. Here she is styling her new digs that she wore for our walk on the beach the next day. She is wearing my shirt as a dress and Papa's belt wrapped around her twice.

Despite all of the mishaps, a good time was had by all. Here are some of the pictures from the rest of the weekend. Here are Garrett and Daddy relaxing at the campsite.

Now, we know why mommy likes camping - Daddy does the cooking. Here is Andy making his famous silver turtles.You can't have camping without a camp fire and smores!And let's not forget our awesome tent setter uppers.

Here are some of the kids having fun at the beach.Brandon even did good letting everyone hold him. That made mommy very happy.We even got to see something that you do not see very often at Galveston. Surfers!! The hurricane went to Louisiana but his waves came to us. It was too strong to have the kids play in the surf today but we had fun watching the surfers!!
We really did have a good time in spite of the little hiccups along the way. And Garrett had the best time ever and that was what it was all about after all.

Small Acts of Kindness

2008-08-29T15:19:00.002-05:00

It was a normal Walmart trip for me. I just can't seem to get out of that store without my grocery cart completely filled. I was getting all of the things for the camping trip (of course, now I realize I forgot swim diapers and sunscreen so I guess I will going back). My cart was beyond full and there was just no way I was going to fit the 4 bags of ice that I had just purchased. I told Garrett that Mommy had to get another grocery cart and he could be my helper and try and push the other cart.

So, I've got Brandon fussing because we have already been at Walmart for over an hour, one grocery cart completely full with stuff falling out of it, and me trying to explain to my almost 3 year old how to kinda push the cart next to Mommy so I can keep the train moving. It was apparent to all that this was not working. I was trying to figure out how to push both carts when a woman that I did not know came and offered to help. She was walking in the store just beginning her shopping but she took the 5 minutes to help me get to the car. It was 5 minutes of her time but the difference it made in that moment of my life was priceless.

I always tell Andy that I pray to God that I will be that person. The one who gives the few minutes of her time to help someone. So, thank you Miss Kind Lady at Walmart. May God grant me the graces to give out a lifetime of kindnesses in repayment of yours.

School Days

2008-08-25T13:57:00.006-05:00

Today is the 1st day of school. It is Caitlyn's 1st day of REAL school. How do those little babies that come home from the hospital all manage to grow up? I actually have not cried a tear about it until I sat down to write this post. I mean there was never a child more ready for kindergarten than Caitlyn. She had to watch most of her friends go last year and she waited patiently for her turn. She is a very social person, LOVES to be with people, already knows her letters, numbers, even a sight word or two. The child truly needed to go to school. But as I sit here reflecting, it still brings tears to my eyes. I mean after all, she is my baby girl. There wont be anymore of just our time together while the boys nap. There are all these teachers who are going to play an important part of what she learns. It's not just me anymore. It is going to the school and me - it is so hard letting someone/something play such an important part of your child's life.

Okay, sad moment over!! I just can't wait to see all of the wonderful things she is going to learn this year. I can't wait until she can read to me and read to Garrett and Brandon. Her world is just beginning.

Allison started 3rd grade this year and is so excited because she has all of her "best friends" in her class. THANK YOU, GOD! I know it will be a great year for her. Brittany is in 5th now and can't wait to "rule the school". It is so funny how somethings don't change. I remember feeling the same thing in 5th grade.

Here are all 3 of my grade schoolers this morning.

Here is Caitlyn at her desk. She's got that look like I have been waiting for this my whole life.Here is my big Brittany in the 5th grade. She is getting so old. This will be the last picture of her at her desk on the 1st day of school that I will get to take. Next, year will be middle school.Here's Ally Claire all ready for 3rd grade.

Of course, you know what they say, "while the cat's away, the mice will play". Garrett and Brandon had a busy day today. It was Garrett's 1st day of swim lessons. The timing could have been a little better. We were late because I couldn't get out of the school parking lot. So, we didn't get to have our little transitioning period when we got to the swimming lessons so Garrett started crying.

Luckily, his teacher was quite good and he was happy before too long and doing his own version of "swimming".If swim lessons, were not enough to do on the 1st day with just the boys. (Can you believe I just have boys at home? ) We had our Mother's of Young Children Annual back to school luncheon. It is great to have the 1st day go by a little quicker since you are hanging out with friends. Here is Garrett, Claire and Rose enjoying the pushing talents of Jeremy. They don't look like there are missing their siblings, do they?

And just so that you know she made it home okay - here is Caitlyn coming home on the school bus. Mommy was quite happy to see she had made it back.

Of course, it was once everyone got home from school that life got a little hairy. It is the reason why I actual enjoy my children being out of school. Let's see it went something like this. Bus was late, Brandon woke up while I was waiting for the bus. I grabbed him and told him he would have to wait to nurse because I needed to take a picture of Caitlyn getting of the bus. Priorities I told him!! Brittany and Caitlyn were doing the "I don't have homework but you do, Mommy dance". Allison started to cry and said "but I DO have homework". That begain the discussion on why it is okay to have homework on the 1st day of school even if no one else does. Meanwhile, Brandon is crying and Garrett is running around like deranged almost 3 year old. I'm trying to fill out school paperwork, hold a crying baby, calm a crazy toddler, listen to a story about kindergarten while getting dinner on the table. AHHH, it has begun!!

Keep the Old

2008-08-24T20:19:00.002-05:00

There was a song that I learned in Girls Scouts. The verse went, " Make new friends, but keep the old, one is silver and the other's gold". I have always tried to live by that statement. I do the best that I can to keep in touch with all of the friends who have touched my life at some point. Some days, I feel like I do a good job of keeping in touch, other days I'm disappointed when I realize that I have no idea what is going on in some one's life who was once instrumental in mine.

In some ways, it is much easier to keep in touch these days. We have email, blogs, my space, etc. But to actually get together in person is not always as easy. Case in point - I just saw my closest friends from high school today. Sadly, it had been almost 2 years since we had gotten together. It's not that we live that far apart. We live an hour away from each other. It's just that we are all so busy with the life we have chosen to live that it is hard to sometimes make time for the "old". I am so thankful that today was the day that we pushed away all of the things that must get done and we made time just to be. Time to catch-up, laugh about the past, get to know each other's kids. It was just fun and much too short. I pray that we do it again soon.

So, whether you are a gold or a silver in my life, please know that I appreciate you and I want to make time for just you!

My New Smile

2008-08-21T09:59:00.003-05:00

Today was the day that Brittany got her braces on her top 4 teeth. A major milestone in most of the lives of children these days. Although she was acting like she didn't like the idea, I'm pretty sure that she was happy to get them. It is one of those love/hate relationships. You really don't like the idea of braces and the pain involved in wearing them but you love that you will have straight teeth after it is all done.

No appointments are ever just easy when you have 5 children. They told me it would last about 45 minutes so I thought I can handle the kids for that long. Brittany then invited a girl down the street to come with us so she could watch. Hey, what's one more, right. So, I walked into the dentist office with 6 children following behind me.

They have a little arc that has stuffed animals in it. The kids were playing in it when the called Brittany's name. I asked Brittany if she wants me to go or stay (secretly hoping she will say stay in the waiting room because there are things for the kids to do). She, of course, wants me to go. I tell all the kids to come and that is when I notice that Garrett had taken his shoes off. They were somewhere in all the stuffed animals. So, I had to search through all of the animals while holding Brandon for Garrett's shoes. After several minutes of searching, we finally found them. Okay, one crisis over with.

Now, I have to admit my kids were pretty well behaved for the most part. I just always wish they would be perfect so the people in the waiting room would think that I am just such a "great mom". There were 4 chairs in the area where they put the braces on and no toys. There was another person there so it was 3 chairs for 6 people. So, there was alittle bickering about chairs. Garrett after about 20 minutes just could not sit still. I am trying to be the "great mom" and explain to him that we cannot throw our shoes at the nice lady sitting next to us. We are supposed to use quiet voices inside. Yes, it is nice to sing "Baa, baa, black sheep" to our baby brother but we don't need to scream it and expect applause from all of the people working. No, it is not okay to pull Caitlyn out of her chair just because you want to sit there. You get the idea, I keep praying that just my nice sweet voice will render him to obeying so I can look good. It worked pretty good for about 30 minutes. Then, really, it is just too much to ask from an almost 3 year old little boy. He started the laying on the ground and being loud. Of course, this is when Brandon decides to start the back arching. I'm thinking - come on, how long can 4 little braces take.

Luckily, by the grace of God, it was over about then. We just needed to learn how to clean our teeth and we are out of here. I guess I kinda noticed that Brandon was making faces during our teeth cleaning demonstration. Of course, it wasn't until I got up to make Brittany's next two appointments that I realized what had happened. I felt something on my leg and thought, man, Brandon spit up again. Unfortunatley, I then realized it was another type of bodily fluid. Brandon had picked this opportunity to poop through his diaper and it was now on my leg. GROSS! I found a kleenex right there and discreetly cleaned my leg while trying to figure out when I wanted these appointments since I don't know anyone's schedule yet for the fall. I managed to keep Brandon up against my shirt and I think no one knew except for my poor leg and shirt that Brandon had a diaper incident.

Anyway, now that that is done. Here is the picture of Brittany with her new smile.

We Interrupt Our Parenting to Bring You the Olympics

2008-08-13T15:10:00.004-05:00

Even as a child, I was glued to the Olympics. I never formally took Gymnastics or Ice skating. Yet, when the Olympics were on when I was young, I would tumble throughout the house and do jumps just as the ice skaters did. In my heart, I could be an Olympian. It didn't matter, that I wasn't formally trained in any of these sports. I just felt like I could do it and I remember daydreaming about listening to the National Anthem while I received my gold medal.

Fast forward to today. Okay, I still daydream about collecting my gold medal but I'm a bit more realistic in my thoughts and realize that it will never happen. But it does make for a great daydream! I just love the Olympics! I almost love everything about them. I can watch them from sunup to sundown. I never grow tired of hearing the individual stories of each Olympian and tears regularly fall down my face as I watch someone either realize their dream or have their dream just slip from their grasp. I have been humming "One Moment in Time" since the Olympics began. To me, it has always been a song about the Olympic dream.

The only problem with this whole Olympics is that I have 5 children who actually think I should take care of them during these two weeks. I mean what can they possibly be thinking!! They are enjoying them too but they just don't see the need to watch them every second that they are on. Allison actually asked if we could watch the Disney channel for awhile. The Disney Channel?!?! Are you serious - you can watch that everyday. This only happens once every four years. They are pretty into the gymnastics and swimming. Brittany told me yesterday that she thought she could make the Olympics in gymnastics. (She doesn't take lessons either - I wonder where she gets these ideas from!) I am enjoying my nursing sessions with Brandon this week because then I can feel like I am being a parent while watching the Olympics!! Poor Garrett, he must have asked for a cup of milk 100 times the other day while I was waiting for Phelps to swim. And let's not forgot about the sleep deprivation these Olympics are causing. I'm trying to explain to Brandon that he cannot get up in the middle of the night for the next two weeks because Mommy is staying up late to watch the Olympics. He apparently doesn't get the concept yet!

Seriously though, the Olympics are just an amazing thing to watch. These athletes have given their lives to their sports to be the best and this is their moment to shine. I love watching events that I never get to see on a regular basis. Sports that I didn't even know existed and have never heard of except for once every four years. I look forward to the next 1 1/2 weeks and then the Olympics will once again be but a memory and hopefully my parenting skills will return.

No Veggies Passed These Lips!

2008-08-11T19:16:00.006-05:00

I have never had the best eaters as babies - okay, correct that - Allison was an eater. Nursing has been a struggle, babyfood a struggle, transitioning to sippy and real food a struggle. Once they got it; however, they ate their veggies just as well as anything else. I think I might have met my match on the veggie issue. Brandon just will not eat them. And he is already so smart. I put the food on his high chair tonight. First, I just put green beans and corn in the hopes he would just eat them. No dice. So, I gave him the cheesy noodles with chicken. The boy went crazy! Although, I think more got on him than in him. I then thought I would just sneak a veggie or two in. Oh no, Brandon can manage to keep the noodle in his mouth while spitting out the green bean. He can even manage to pick up everything on his tray but leave the veggies behind. How does he already know that they are the veggies and that they are good for him. What is a mom to do?!?

Here he is tonight eating his dinner - notice how he managed to take off his bib also! Can we say "stain stick".

Meurer Reunion

2008-08-11T16:20:00.004-05:00

We had the Meurer Family Reunion in Fredericksburg this weekend. The kids were all entertained by Sunshine the Clown who did magic and face painting. Now, when I heard there would be face painting, I assumed it would be the small little design on the side of the check. Oh no, Sunshine is quite the artist. I couldn't believe what she did to the kids faces. They thought it was great.

Here are all 4 kids along with Mackenzie (my niece who is spiderman).

Here is Brittany

Here is Allison

Here is Caitlyn

Here is Garrett

She was quite good at her magic too. She had all of the kids helping her out. Each time they were still amazed at how that one ball became two. Garrett kept saying "that was punny!". He doesn't have those "f" sounds down yet.

Here is Brittany helping out with the magic.

The reunion was very nice although a bit short. By the time, I watched Sunshine, feed the kids, listened to the raffle, people were leaving. It was nice to see them again though. Most of these people I only get to see at family reunions nowadays because we are all so busy with our families. It is such a shame that we are all pulled in so many directions.

Here is Brandon checking out his cousin Reagan. The two of them were so funny. They kept following each other crawling around the room. They took turns trying to poke each other's eye out and climb on top of the other person.

One of the things that I love about going to Fredericksburg is staying out in the country. I am definetly a "city girl". I love my garbage disposal, trash pick-up, nearby mailbox, neighbors right next door. But I love being able to spend a few days and being one with nature. There is something about sitting on the porch swing and actually "hearing" nature. It doesn't matter how quiet it is in Spring, you never get to hear all of the birds and insects around you. There are no stars to see at night. But I can go up to country and actually look at stars, watch a sunrise and let my children just run. There are no cars to watch out for, no other people around. They can just run in the fields and be a kid.

Here is the view from the porch swing.

Here are the kids running in field to the deer blind.Here is Brandon enjoying swinging on the swing set my parents put up for their grandkids.

I always tell everyone that I am a very lucky person in the fact that I have to go visit family in Fredericksburg. I couldn't think of a better place to be "forced" to go to several times a year. I only wish I had more time to go more often. It is calming for the soul!

Can You Give Me a Jump?

2008-08-07T14:52:00.003-05:00

Can you give me a jump? I'm sure my hubby had no idea what he was about to get into when he asked this question to the man who pulled up to him at Best Buy. Andy had been the wonderful husband and picked up my camera that was ready. He got back into his car and it wouldn't start. He called AAA and was told that it would be 90 minutes. He called me and I said I was on my way. He decided that he would try to get done faster so he asked the guy who pulled up in front of him to give him a jump. It was a nice big, brand new truck - just what you needed to jump your little Camry.

I wish someone would have told us that big trucks, old jumper cables and little cars don't mix. I was not there when this happened but apparently the truck had too much power for our old jumper cables and our little car and a fire started. Luckily, no one was hurt. That brand new truck of the good Samaritan, however, will never be the same. It still ran but the bumper and headlights were melted by the fire. Our Camry was not as badly injured but still needed some repair. We have not heard from the guy who stopped to help - I am so crossing my fingers that the damage was not too costly! I guess only time will tell.

This has been quite the summer of mishaps for the Prewitt's and our personal and household items. I'm not quite sure what message God is trying to send me but I better figure it out soon!!

Milestones Not Documented!

2008-07-31T17:03:00.002-05:00

Okay, I will be the 1st to admit that I always forget my camera. I have the best of intentions when I know I am going to be somewhere where I might want a picture to remember it. I usually always get the camera but then the camera usually gets left on the table. If it makes it into the van, then it usually gets left in there. I am also not a scrapbooker. To be honest, I just don't have the time, talent or money to take that up right now. I do put my pictures in an album in order. I am almost a year behind on that one too - but I DID just get my pictures developed.

One, thing I have been able to get on the camera were major 1st milestones. Brandon learned how to pull up yesterday. He pulled up on the window sill. The same window sill that Garrett 1st pulled up on. I have the picture of Garrett. The same picture of Brandon will never be. Why, do you ask?!?!? That would be because my camera broke and Best Buy sent it off to be repaired and I haven't gotten it back yet. So, instead of me having a great picture of Brandon pulling up in the window on his unsteady feet matching his own big brother's - I have nothing.

Life happens so fast. I often look back at the photo albums over my kids 1st years and realize it is all a blur. But I can look at a picture and almost remember what the moment was like. There will be no picture of Brandon pulling up to look back on. Oh well, I guess I can take a picture of him on his now "steady feet" pulling up to the window and just pretend!

We're Stuck in the Lake and Can't Get Back!

2008-07-21T07:33:00.002-05:00

Sunday was my mom's 65th birthday. Happy Birthday Nana! My parents rented a condo for the week at Lake Conroe so we went up there on Sunday. My dad rented a boat for a few hours for some family fun. Nana and I decided to take turns on the boat while the other one watched Brandon. I went on the boat first. We were all having a great time. Brittany and Allison rode the tube behind the boat. It was a hot day but the wind and water felt great.

Then Garrett informed us that he had to go potty. No biggy!! He can hold it while we go back to shore - it was time for mom to change places with me anyway. Then we heard it - a siren sound coming from the boat. Then Brittany and Andy noticed the smoke coming from the motor. Wonderful - we have a smoking motor and a 2 year old who must pee!! We put in a call to the boat rental place and a kicking and screaming Garrett got a lesson on peeing in a lake.

It all ended well, of course. We got towed back to the shore, Garrett got comfortable. We arrived to find Brandon and Nana waiting for us at the dock. Only to find out, they had been locked outside of the condo for over an hour!

So what more could you want for on a Sunday afternoon - Boat died, Garrett cried about the potty and Brandon spent some quality time in the 98 degree heat. Ahhh, the memories we are making this summer!!

They're BACK!!!

2008-07-19T16:24:00.003-05:00

Brittany, Allison, Caitlyn and Garrett made it back from Nana and Papa's house. I'm glad to have them back again. When you are use to noise and chaos all the time, the world just doesn't seem right when it is so quiet. They all had a great time in Fredericksburg. In fact, Caitlyn told me on the phone this week that she was having so much fun that she really didn't miss me. Ok, thanks - Caitlyn!!

I got lots of hugs and kisses upon their return and it was only moments of them being home before the noise and chaos returned. Ahhh, the sweet sounds of my life. Thanks Nana and Papa for the great week!

Houston, We Have a Washing Machine!

2008-07-19T16:07:00.002-05:00

After 4 trips by the Sears repair man, hours on the phone with Sears representatives and countless tears of frustration, I finally have a working washing machine in my house. I don't think I have ever been so excited to do laundry in my life!! Okay, I'm on my second load now - I think I'm getting over it. Thanks again to all those who helped me during my month long hiatus from a working washer. May it never happen again!!

Song For a 5th Child

2008-07-18T17:21:00.002-05:00

I have been dreaming of all that I would accomplish this week with the 4 oldest kids at Nana and Papa's. The list, of course, was way to long but I figured if Brandon cooperated I could get most of it knocked out. The week went by and while I have accomplished some things. I was getting pretty discouraged because I wasn't scratching off enough stuff off my list. Brandon had been getting fussy and transitioning from 3 naps to 2. So, I found myself going for stroller walks, holding him and swinging him more than I had planned too. He was supposed to be playing on the floor happily beside me while I worked. Didn't he get that memo?

So, last night I decided that I needed to get a lot done today. It was my last day after all and the house did not look ready yet. I was sure I could get Brandon to be happy while I did stuff today. Well, that hope was dashed when Brandon woke up crying at 11 pm last night with a fever. So, today instead of working - I have been holding, nursing and loving my sick 8 month old baby.

I was sitting here rocking Brandon with him on my chest looking up at my face. I realized that I was doing exactly what I needed to be doing. It didn't matter that the house wouldn't be "finished" tomorrow when the kids got back. What mattered is that I was sitting her holding my baby and singing to him. What a blessing it is that the other children were gone at this moment so I can love on just him instead of being pulled in so many different directions.

I tried to think of that poem about rocking babies while the house laid in ruin so I came on-line to find it. To my surprise it is actually called "Song For a Fifth Child". How appropriate since Brandon is number 5. It is a constant battle in the life of a mom with many children. Trying to find the balance between housework, children, husband, and a moment or two for yourself. Everyday, I am disappointed in myself. Either I spent too much time on myself, or the kids, or the house or the hubby. I can never seem satisified with how I spent my hours of that day. Today I chose to just love a little baby who only wanted his momma and I don't feel bad about it at all. The battle within myself will go on again tomorrow but for today - I'm rocking my baby and loving every minute of it.

Song for a Fifth Child

Mother, oh Mother, come shake out your cloth
empty the dustpan, poison the moth,
hang out the washing and butter the bread,
sew on a button and make up a bed.

Where is the mother whose house is so shocking?
She's up in the nursery, blissfully rocking.
Oh, I've grown shiftless as Little Boy Blue
(lullaby, rockaby, lullaby loo).
Dishes are waiting and bills are past due
(pat-a-cake, darling, and peek, peekaboo).
The shopping's not done and there's nothing for stew
and out in the yard there's a hullabaloo
but I'm playing Kanga and this is my Roo.
Look! Aren't her eyes the most wonderful hue?
(lullaby, rockaby, lullaby loo).

The cleaning and scrubbing will wait till tomorrow,
for children grow up, as I've learned to my sorrow.
So quiet down, cobwebs. Dust go to sleep.
I'm rocking my baby and babies don't keep.

by Ruth Hulburt Hamilton

Me and the Sears Repair Man

2008-07-15T09:53:00.003-05:00

Okay, I think my neighbors might start talking. There has been a Sears van in front of my house now many times over the last few weeks. I wonder what the neighbors much be thinking. Surely, it can't take 4 trips to fix a washing machine?!?!?!? Oh, but it can! My Sears man was here again yesterday for what was supposed to be the final trip to fix my washing machine. I'm sure that you can guess by the fact that I am blogging about this that my washing machine did not get fixed!! Now, it is the connector wire that is burned out. My question is why didn't the last guy check every possible aspect of my washing machine over before he left. He knew that they had already not ordered the correct parts the last time. My second question is why don't they carry any parts with them?!?!?!? This should not be that difficult I mean I called Sears because my washer is a Kenmore - it is their own brand shouldn't they have parts readily assessable for them. It takes a week each time they realize that they need a new part for the part to come in. To me that is just crazy!! I have been without a washer machine for over 3 weeks. It will be about 4 weeks by the time Mrs. Sears guy comes back.

Once again, I have been saved by wonderful friends who have graciously helped me with laundry. So thanks to Trey, Pam, Kathleen and Kimberly this time around. Everyone else watch out if they need to order another part on Friday. I liked to share my laundry wealth with all my friends.

While the Kids are Away - Mom and Dad Organize!

2008-07-14T15:34:00.004-05:00

When we left New Braunfels, our car was a little bit lighter as we left Brittany, Allison, Caitlyn and Garrett behind. Heaven help Nana and Papa. The kids are spending the week in Fredericksburg having a good time between town and the country. Meanwhile, Andy, Brandon and I headed home. So, what are a mom and dad to do with only one baby at home? Lets see, so far we have cleaned out the garage, organized the backyard, gone through all the toys and cleaned out the pantry. Sounds like fun, doesn't it?!?!? Actually as any mom would know, the only way to get this stuff done is to do it without the kids around. Otherwise, they decide to touch and move everything you are trying to put away. I took a picture of the contents of the game room closet just so you would know the amount of stuff I had to go through. Some days, I wish I could just get rid of it all. I truly wonder if the kids would even miss it. But, unfortunately, most of it ended back in the closet. But hey, at least until the kids come back - it's organized!!

Vacation - New Braunfels

2008-07-14T09:42:00.007-05:00

We went on vacation to New Braunfels starting July 5th. My parents rented a 3 bedroom condo and a cabin so the whole Meurer clan went for some family fun. We got to visit my cousin Kerri and her family along with my cousin Christie and her family on Sunday. It was great to see everyone.

Here are all the kids minus Reagan who I think was sleeping at the time.

On Monday, we went on a boat on Caynon Lake. The water was beautiful. Here are Brittany and Allison happy to be on the boat.

Here is Garrett helping Papa captain the boat.Caitlyn realized that the lake was just a big swimming pool.Somehow, they managed to even get Mommy in the lake. Okay, truth be told - they pushed Mommy in!!The resort that we stayed at had minature gold so we decided to play it one day. I didn't know there were so many ways to cheat at putt-putt. I think my children found them all. But everyone had fun - what's a little cheating among family on the golf course. Here is Garrett showing his golfing skills.

A trip to New Braunfels would not be complete without some floating down the river. We first had the kids do a little trial run at our resort to see if the kids would like it. Andy, Brittany and Allison then did a 3 mile float. We literally just dropped them off by a bridge and said see you later. The next day we did a shorter float with everyone except Nana and Brandon.

Here the kids are testing the waters.

Andy, Brittany and Allison made it back from their 3 mile float!

After a day on the river, every man needs a good chair and his favorite beverage. (aka beer for Daddy - milk for Garrett)

We also decided to head over to Landa Park while in New Braunfels. We got to ride the train and the paddleboats. We managed to get off the paddleboats just before the rain. We managed to go to a part of Texas that was in a drought and still get rained on everyday. We were happy for them to get rain but maybe next time it wont be on our vacation.

Here is Garrett, Allison, Nana and Brittany on the train.

Here is all of us on the paddleboats.
It was great with Nana and Papa there because Nana watched Brandon alot of the time so we got to do fun things with the older kids. Here is a picture of Brandon with Papa though just to prove he was there.

I Get By With A Little Help From My Friends

2008-06-30T14:43:00.002-05:00

Okay, a week and a half without a washing machine would be considered a horrible situation for most families. For a family of 7, it is a down right diaster. I know was a little naive when I thought the Sears repair man would come to my rescue and fix my washer on site. But to have to wait for 7 more days for our a washer - you have got to be out of your freaking mind. I have swim team towels from one end of the house to the other, dirty bibs from a baby who is not so good at getting the food into the mouth, a 2 year old who sometimes waits to long to go visit the potty not to mention the fact that children feel the need for multiple clothing changes in a day when they are 5. So, what is a poor mom to do?!?!?

Insert wonderful caring friends and a sister-in-law!! I spent last Thursday running from house to house with dirty laundry. My friends were wonderful enough to let me use their washing machine and drier. I did feel like my head was cut off trying to remember who had what and if I needed to move something to the drier but I got my clothes all clean. Then, yesterday, I did some more laundry. So, thank you Gayle, Sam and Amanda!! My family wouldn't be looking or smelling so pretty if it wasn't for you. And heaven help the Sears repair man if he doesn't fix my washer on Wednesday!!

Our Hot Summer Night!

2008-06-23T16:27:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was one of the hottest days yet this summer. It would also be the day our A/C decided to stop working. It all started with just a flash of light. We were getting ready for Mass when my dad noticed that he saw a flick of light come from the washer. The washer then stopped working!! I was one mad momma!! I cannot have a washer on the outs - I have 5 children. Well, we didn't realize until around 2 pm that the washer was not the only thing not working. Brandon awoke from his nap and was quite the cranky boy so I sat down to nurse him. I was so hot so I told Andy to turn on the fan. Well, the fan didn't work. It was then that we realized that the house was really hot and we had no A/C. Of course, we could find no one to come yesterday so we spent the day in a house with no A/C. It was quite toasty at bedtime and Brandon so did not sleep well. The girls did think it was cool that they could hear the birds chirping when they woke up this morning. Well, $630 dollars later, we have a cool house again. Now, the question is did the washer break the A/C unit or did the A/C unit break the washer. I think this mystery will last forever just like other great mysteries like which comes 1st the chicken or the egg.

Oh, and Sears won't be here for 2 more days. So, if you see laundry coming from our house - you will know why!!

Divisional Swim Meet

2008-06-23T16:09:00.005-05:00

We had the girls divisional swim meet on Saturday. This was the 1st year that we would be at an outdoor pool for this meet and I was fearing the worse. It was actually not that bad and we were done around 3 pm. We swam against 5 other teams and the girls all did very well. Allison came in 2nd for breaststroke and qualified for Ponderosa. Brittany came in 7th in breaststroke and will be swimming in the All-Star Meet. So, that means that mommy has 1 more week of swim team practice. Thanks girls for being overachievers!! Caitlyn's freestyle relay came in 3rd. Everyone was very happy with their medals. On Sunday night we had recongnition night and everyone got their trophy (for my kids it is still all about the trophy!!) and Allison was awarded Most Valuable 7-8 swimmer.

Here is Caitlyn swimming the backstroke.

Here is Brittany doing the backstroke as part of the IM.Swimmers take your mark - Allison getting ready to start off the 7-8 girls freestyle relay.Really, swimteam is all about the friends!!

Picture Day

2008-06-16T09:50:00.004-05:00

As another mother would know, getting professional pictures done of your children can be a very stressful task. You have dreams and have visions of how great the pictures are going to be and then reality sets in. Your child is scared of the photographer, they are going through the "fake" smile phase, they can't sit still, they wont smile, they finally smile but are looking the wrong way. The list could go on forever. That is why I think my sister, Natalie, and I must have been smoking something when we decided to get both of our families together to take a picture for our parents. That is seven children! And not just any 7 children - you've got 2 babies and 2 toddlers in the mix. So, what could possibly go wrong!!

Fast forward to the morning of the pictures. We decided to do it on a Friday during the week in the hopes of missing the weekend crowd. Sounded great in theory until I realized that I would be getting all 5 of my children ready by myself. Andy's job was just to meet us there. No problem, I say to myself. Brandon will nap while I get the other 4 ready and then I'll just have him to get ready. I think you all know what happens next - Brandon only takes a 30 minute nap!! I had only one child's hair done when I hear the stirring on the baby monitor. I immediatly freeze and pray to the Lord above and any saints and angels who might be free. Please, oh please Lord have him go back to sleep. Apparently, our Heavenly Father thought this might be a good time to have a laugh on me because Brandon was wide AWAKE! That's okay, he can just play on the floor while I get the rest of the girls hair done and myself. But no, he was a cranky boy so mommy must hold him while doing everyone's hair.

So, I eventually get everyone done including me. I yell at everyone it is time to go - only to realize that Garrett has been sucking his thumb. Now, if you know Garrett you know that he doesn't close his mouth when he sucks his thumb so now his shirt is all wet. So, I am trying to dry that off when he decides to stick his hands in my make-up that is sitting there and then wipes his fingers on his shirt. Are you kidding me?!?!?!? So, now I must clean his shirt from my foundation. Okay, now let's get in the car to go. I have now done my calculation in my mind and realize that Brandon will probably start getting tired about half way through the pictures. But what can I do now, I talk to Natalie and I tell her this is not going to go well but we are on our way.

Well, to my surprise, Brandon was probably the best one there. The true trouble maker would, of course, be that 2 year old named Garrettman!! He just couldn't keep his hands down and was looking up, down and all around. This, of course, made Mackenzie want to look up, down and all around. In the end, the poor photographer took over 150 pictures but we did have a few that turned out okay. I'm sure he wanted a drink by the time we left. Well, here it is the prized family photo. Do you think it was worth it???

The Campout That Wasn't

2008-06-10T14:49:00.003-05:00

I must have had sucker written on my face yesterday afternoon. You can always tell when kids are about to ask you to do something that you normally do not do. They have that very sweet look on their face with just the slightest smile. That was the look I received from 5 girls yesterday when they asked if they could camp out in the backyard last night. Now, we don't have too many sleepovers at our house because we have a baby who gets up all the time. So, I guess my guilty mother complex got the best of me and I agreed. The girls all had a great time but the camping part of the evening was over by 9 pm. Too hot was the verdict!! The campout became a sleepover in the living room. The kids were actually very good and went to bed at a good hour. Maybe sleepovers are not as bad as I am always fearing!
All the kids ready for a good night in the tent!Must have watermelon on a hot summer night!We have moved into the living room!The "sleepover hangover" the next day. Caitlyn feel asleep watching a movie the next day in the afternoon.

Lazy Days of Summer!

2008-06-06T12:17:00.004-05:00

Ahhhh, the lazy days of summer! Is there such a thing when you are a stay-at-home mom to 5 kids? Today is the lst day of summer. Let's see - the kids were all up by 6:30 am. Now, let me tell you I have been dragging Brittany and Allison out of bed at 6:45 for the last few weeks. So, today when they can sleep in - there were already in my room before I could even get dressed!! We, of course, have already hit walmart and swim team.

Then, what was supposed to be a one child playdate turned into a 4 kid playdate. I really don't mind having the whole neighborhood over as long as everyone is smiling. Right now, we have a game of hide-n-seek going on. We have already played the wii. But afterall, isn't that what they lazy days of summer are all about. Playing with the neighborhood kids all day long. I'm sure before long - okay when it is Garrett and Brandon's nap time, they will find another house to invade. I really do love seeing my children not have a care in the world and just play. I hope this is the 1st day of a great summer!

All of the kids eating lunch today at the house.

Allison and Alisyn boxing on the wii.

Garrett and Abby counting for hide-n-seek.

Brittany getting caught under the bed in the nursery.

How does Allison fit underneath my bathroom sink??Caitlyn and Brenden in the clothes hamper.

Benfer Book Parade

2008-06-03T09:58:00.004-05:00

As now a seasoned mother of school age children, there are certain events that happen that truly signal that another school year has come and gone. If you are a Benfer Bobcat, one of those rights of passage is the annual Benfer Book Parade. Each classroom picks a book and all of the children in that class dress up reflecting the book. This happens every year at the Strack Track. While the children happily march around the track, the parents still in the stands facing the direct sun wondering just how many grades are there in elementary?!?!? The kids love it though and isn't that what it is all about.

Brittany had to play the part of a princess in this years book parade. I know it was a real stretch! Since she has always believed she was a princess.

In the middle of this elephant costume, you can see Allison's feet. She got to be the middle of the elephant. Quite the honor!

Here are Caitlyn, Garrett and Brandon watching the parade go by.

Here is what Brandon truly felt about his 1st Benfer Book Parade. Do you think I should tell him how many more of these he can look forward to?

This is a picture of all the classes lined up after the parade. You can see all the kids in the distance. That is a lot of Benfer Bobcats!!

Opening day at the Pool

2008-06-01T17:05:00.003-05:00

Last weekend was opening day at the pool. I was anxious to see how Garrett and Brandon would like the water. Garrett had pretty much showed us he like the idea of water but didn't want to go near it at our neighbor's pool. He actually did much better at the Terranova pool. He still wouldn't put his face in but he was actually having a good time.

Brandon pretty much would have rathered played with his hat.

Piano Recital

2008-06-01T16:52:00.003-05:00

Friday was Brittany's 1st real piano recital. I had been looking forward to it all week. Well, my last post must have been an omen of what was to come because Caitlyn decided to throw-up right before the recital. So, Andy went and I stayed home. I decided I would rather go to the swim meet the next day. I have one blurry picture from her recital. Andy did his best to try and record and take a picture. So, here it is. Next time you are over, you can have Brittany play "Can You Feel the Love Tonight?".

What Did I Miss?

2008-05-24T07:06:00.000-05:00

I think it is because I have been home with my kids for over 10 years. But I can't stand to miss anything of theirs. I never had to be at work and miss a major milestone. (Thank you Andy!) So, I'm just used to seeing everything that they accomplish. Now, that the kids are older and in multiple activities and the fact that we still have a baby, I'm finding that I'm having to miss events in my children's lives due to conflicts and I do not like it one bit!!

Right now, the girls are all on their way to a swim meet and here I sit at home. It is just way to hot for Brandon to be there for 5 hours plus he needs to have a morning nap. He is not known for good naps away from home. It is my turn to wait until Brandon gets up from his nap before I go to the meet. While in my heart, I know that it is only fair that Andy gets to see the beginning of the meet, I want to be there. I want to see each lap swam, every dive, every relay. Like I said, I have been spoiled by being at home and never missing out.

I know it is just the beginning. There have already been soccer games missed because some one else had a game or we had just had a baby. Before long, there will be 5 kids in activities and there will be no way to make everything. But it is hard for this stay-at-home mom to realize that there will be shiny accomplishments that will be missed and the play-by-play of the child will have to do. Of course, with the way my kids talk I will hear the play-by-play so many times, I will feel like I was there!

Preschool Graduation

2008-05-22T14:16:00.000-05:00

Today, Caitlyn graduated from preschool. It is amazing how something like this can be so bittersweet. I am soooo excited about her graduating and going to kindergarten in the fall because she is sooo ready for school. At the same time, it is so hard to realize in a few months, Caitlyn will be taking a huge step towards her independence. She was very cute at graduation and they sang a song, got their diplomas and then we watched a slide show of pictures from the year.

Here is Caitlyn singing about a catepillar turning into a butterfly.

Here is Caitlyn getting her diploma.

The proud graduate!

Look at how far I have come. This is Caitlyn back in October 2002!!!

Field Day

2008-05-21T15:06:00.001-05:00

Today was field day at the girls school. It is not the same field day that I remember as a child. Ours was all about competition. Student against student. Class against class. I still remember some of my team names. Adamson's Armadillos and Todd's Tornadoes. We had great events like 3 legged races and wheelbarrow races. Now, it seems to me that it is all about water! That is all the girls want to talk about it is how many water events they have this year compared to last. For them it is all about fun - there is no competition anymore. I'm not sure that it's a bad thing. It's just different then when I was a kid. Of course, it was extremely hot today and I have to admit - I wish I could have participated in a water event.

There were still a few events from the "olden" days. There was a tug of war, rope climb and obstacle course. But if you ask Brittany and Allison - it's all filler for the water events. Staying true to the Prewitt Household this year - Garrett woke up sick so it looked like Mommy would be missing field day. Daddy, however, came to the rescue and took a sick day so the girls would not be disappointed. Brandon might have wished we could have missed the whole thing because he was so hot. He did give everyone a big smile when they would tell him how cute he is. Caitlyn enjoyed it too and can't wait for the water events for next year when she is in kindergarten.

Don't Blink!!

2008-05-20T17:13:00.000-05:00

So, today is the day that we received the photo albums from the preschool that shows what your child has done all year while they were at school and you were running around like a mad woman trying to see how many things you could get done in those oh so short hours. Tears always fill my eyes as I look and realize how much a child grows in one school year. It is so hard when you are in the moments of five children at home. There are all the activities of the older kids, the temper tantums of the 2 year old, the sleeping issues of the baby. It makes you just want to wish your life to an easier time. But then you look at the pictures of your child from just September of this year to May and you realize that they are actually growing up faster than you want them to. These moments of babies waking up at night, 2 year olds painting the patio, 5 year olds putting their hands on their hips, 8 year olds arguing over the food you cooked that night, and 10 year olds desperately looking for signs of growing up will be over before I can realize that these are the moments of my life that I will look back on forever wondering where did it all go.

There is a country song out right now that sums it up "You're going miss this, you're going to want this back, you're going wish these days hadn't gone by so fast." So, instead of wishing for an easier time - my wish is that I can slow down and enjoy every moment before I blink and the moment has past me by.

Ready or Not!!

2008-05-20T09:46:00.001-05:00

Okay, I have finally decided to take the leap and start a blog!! Please don't expect too much from me but I'm going to give it a good ol' college try!!