Christmas Reflections 2008

Where does the time go? Track back a couple of weeks ago to our Santa visit. Mr. Eli who was all talk about going to see Santa would not go near the man. Not even with me. So, he watched as his sister's took turns on Santa's lap. Mack had the cutest little grin on her face but for the life of her could not think of a single thing she wanted. She kept tapping her cheek with her index finger saying "ummm. Ummmmm." It's not often you see the girl speechless! Schuyler had a variety things on her list and wasn't afraid to share. Really, when you think about it, Santa is a double standard. Here we are as parents, warning our children about strangers. Don't talk to strangers, don't take food from strangers, don't go with strangers, etc... But, here, go sit on this white-bearded man's lap and tell him what you want for Christmas, even though he is a complete stranger. It's no wonder kids are hesitant, they're just doing what we tell them =)

Okay, reflections from Christmas. I enjoyed the comfort of Oyster Stew on Xmas Eve at my father's house. I'm also happy to report that both my girls tried some. Mackie drank the broth and did not attempt an oyster. Schuyler, however, attempted to eat the oyster although she made a terrible face and spit it out. She also enjoyed the broth. My kids will eat oyster stew, eventually = ) We ended the night with a few games of Pokino.

I LOVE that my kids are learning to play cards. They also were taught several new games at Aunt Mitch and Uncle Jim's. Schuyler is really into it playing war, memory, go fish, UNO, etc... I think I'll be able to make her into a pitch and cribbage player someday.

Not only did they enjoy cards on the farm, but also 4 wheeler rides and they even hooked up a sled to the 4 wheeler. Eli could be found climbing into the tractor and pretending to drive and jumping in the back of the truck.

Reflections of the kids...

Eli - almost 2, is 100% boy. Nothing is too tall to climb and the greater the challenge, the more likely he is to try. He is beginning potty training and has had nightly successes on the "big" potty. His new favorite toy is a motorcyle, which much to my dismay does not have an off or volume button. He calls it his "vroom, vroom". This is followed closely by his new workbench and 3 drills. I guess a man can never have enough drills! His favorite book is Brown Bear and he still must have his blanket for bed or nap.

Mack - age 4 1/2, is our "girly" girl. She loves all things beautiful. Pink is her favorite color. She loves her American Girl doll, Felicity, and enjoys dressing her in all the new doll clothes she got for xmas. She also is fascinated by Tinkerbell. Mack still speaks some "McKenzism" and we are often humored by her words. She can make her bed beautifully and is surprisingly very good at cleaning up. Her smile can melt us.

Schuyler - age 6 1/2, is our "sporty" girl. She is very gifted at writing stories and illustrating them. On occassion, she can be absentminded, but don't let this fool you. To this day, you can still constantly see those wheels turning, just as she did when she was a child with her serious face. Unfortunately, Santa didn't bring her 2 front teeth for xmas so she is still a toothless wonder. She is ready for sports to begin and has picked her favorite teams for the bowl games.

A couple snap shots from the holidays...

xmas cookies, shirley temples, and other holiday cheer

Yes, yes, I know. My very, poor neglected blog. Where have I been you wonder? Xmas shopping, proofing pictures, creating xmas cards, proofing pictures, taking pictures, proofing pictures... you get the picture.

So, I am FINALLY wrapping up all my photography sessions. I have only one left, a sweet newborn =0 That means you'll probably be hearing/seeing more from me.

We started our xmas cookie baking this weekend with some buried cherry chocolate cookies. I had left the room very briefly to use the restroom and return to find Mr. Eli up on the counter eating the marachino cherries, one by one with a little red juice running down his chin. He was on #3 at least and NOT very happy when I took them away. We finished the cookies and used the excees cherry juice for some shirley temple drinks = )


We resumed cookie baking on Monday evening with some sugar cookies. This was my first year with all 3 kids helping. Lets just say we'll be using a different approach next year. I thought it would be fun for the kids to cut out their own cookies. Well, the bickerin first started over who got which cookie cutter (the angel was apparently a hot commodity). I explained you could actually remove the cutter after you had imprinted it on the dough. Well, then they all wanted to stamp in the middle and go all at one time. So, we got a system in place and I thought things would be smooth sailing. Not so, Eli then starts randomly stampting, including places where the girls had already created cutouts. Now there are tears! Eli is removed from the table to do a different activity with dad. Between the girls sneaking cookie dough bites, it goes fairly well. They used 1 3/4 bottles for sprinkles. I'm still not sure how much actually got on the cookies and how much is still on my floor!

The kids had their church xmas program this past Sunday. Our girls are complete hams! Mack was sitting on stage with her legs all crossed. They sang a jump for joy song. They were actually jumping on the risers. Personally, I'm not sure that's the best idea for 3 and 4 year olds but since I'm not the organizer, I'll keep my comments quiet (well, relatively). Schuyler was next to one of her best friends and took any free moment to enthusiastically wave at us in the audience. They did a good job.

On a side note, did you know there is such thing as candy cane milk? Our kids love it. That's usually their night time treat and mine is egg nog with a little holiday cheer = )

We go to visit Santa tomorrow. I'm excited!

Sanna

"Sanna" is Eli's word for Santa, story to come... We tried to do some xmas shopping on Saturday. We didn't get much accomplished shopping wise with the 3 kids but enjoyed some of the string beans concert at South Pointe. We also ran into Santa and helpers down by the ice cream store, they were waiting for the parade to start. When the kids saw Santa, they stopped dead in their tracks. Santa was really great... asking the kids what they would like, if they were good, etc... Schuyler said Hannah Montana stuff, Mack was lost for words for a change (although it might have been due to the coldness) and Eli, bless his heart, kept saying "Hi Sanna"! I didn't even know he knew who Santa was! When it was time to go, Eli had a few tears. He kept saying "back", meaning he wanted to go back. The whole way home all we heard was "By Sanna".

Eli has learned his animal noises. My favorites are his neigh, meow, and roar! He also has a monkey toy that I'm sure came from a McDonald's happy meal. Anyway, if you shake the monkey, one of his sayings is "A ha!". Eli LOVES to imitate this and it's so very cute.

Schuyler lost yet another tooth last Monday. She just had a dentist appt where they said it would come out in another month or two. Seriously, she plays with her teeth that much! She pulled it out while in bed trying to fall asleep. Both girls came out with sheepish little grins on their face. Schuyler also got her cast of today! Woo hoo! She now has to where a splint for 2 weeks but only when at school and dance. The skin is discolored, which is normal. It still has a slight bend but that will correct itself in a year or so. Schuyler is SO excited to take a normal bath!

I have WAY to many pictures to go through from Thanksgiving but just wanted to share one of my SIL. If you have ever wondered what the pregnancy glow is, well just look below and you will see = ) Isn't she beautiful!

giving (belated) thanks...in sickness and in health

This past week has been filled with the usual ups and downs! It started with a productive weekend... Mark steam cleaning carpets, a trip to the Children's Musueum for me and the kids, 7-8 bags of mulched leaves gathered and I even got the exterior lights up. Then came Sunday evening and my throat was on FIRE. I chalked it up to my lingering cold and all the dust, etc... Monday, I had the nurse at work take a peak. Doesn't look like strep but it's very swollen. She says, if it persists see a Dr. I'm miserable... hurts to swallow and talk. Tuesday comes and I had to work. I do NOT feel well and finally break down and make a Dr. appt. Dr. takes a peak in my mouth and says, "Eeew, you have a swollen inflamed Uvula and some thing secondary as well". My first question is "What is my Uvula" and my second question "What does some thing secondary mean". Your Uvula is the thingy in the back of your mouth that hangs down, and, yes I have a form of strep. My prognosis - Uvulitis (use that in scrable and I'm sure you'll get many points) and Step throat.

Thanksgiving day was the first day I felt up to par. I could swallow with minimum pain. My Friday was not so lucky. I threw up 4 times in the a.m. as we were to be having Thanksgiving, at my house, at noon!! I'm pretty sure it was the orange juice on empty stomach in combination with drainage. Not fun!! I now have new meds, steroids, which should help. It's still to soon to tell.

So, to brighten up this post, here are just a few things I'm thankful for. My beautiful and wonderful kids who bring me more joy than I could have imagined. A husband who completely cleans the house and then cooks for his in-laws while his wife is puking and sacrifices the chance to see a friend he has not seen in at least 2 years. A good dog who tolerates sharing her domain with all her cousin dogs. Parents who help cook, watch the kids, etc... at the drop of a dime. Friends, on-line and in person, who are the most caring bunch!

completely and utterly swamped

I have that feeling. The one where you know no-matter what you do, even if you stayed up all night, you wouldn't get everything done. I hate that feeling. Between my photography, my job, family needs and the approaching holidays - I'm struggling to find the balance. So, I'm trying to follow the advice I so often give to others, take it one day at a time and throw it up in God's hands. This too, shall pass.

On some other notes, last Saturday, we became the new owners of a Honda Pilot. It's used but new to us. It's the nicest car Mark or myself have ever owned!! Leather interior, sunroof and my very favorite feature.... heated seats!! Oh yeah! The kids love it and call it "the truck". Schuyler and Mack have been fighting over who gets to rider in the back.

Schuyler got a smaller cast on Monday. It allows her to bend her elbow. At first, she was unsure of the saw used to cut the cast off. But, after the technician showed that he could grab it while going, she was fine. In fact, she thought it tickled. Once the cast was off and they cleaned her arm they sent us for xrays. I saw the color drain from her face followed by the onset of yawns and I knew immediately what was happening b/c I get the same way. She said her tummy hurt and then gagged. She never got sick. They let her sit on my lap for xrays. Once back in the regular exam room and picking out stickers, she started to gain back some color and got most all back after laying down. The arm is healing well. Just as the Dr. said, new bone has began to grow and old bone that is connected is disintegrating. The body is so impressive. She picked yellow again and we hope to get it off completely after 3 weeks = )

Mack has been Miss helpful lately. Last week she cleaned the bathroom by herself. And when I say clean, I don't mean just picking up. She organized things that were out of place and found her water spray bottle and wipe the counter top and floor and folder the towels. It looked impressive. She tends to be an organized girl and I think her sister's untidy habits irritate her. Schuyler tends to be aloof and will leave things randomly in the house and often can not find things... for instance her dance shoes. Mack folds her clothes, puts them in her drawers and always knows where her dance shoes are.

Eli came down with pink eye on Sunday and went to the Dr. on Monday for a terrible cough. Ends up the E-man has croup! He has not slept for the past 2 nights which means mommy has not slept for the past 2 nights. Actually, the whole house seems to be coming down with the cold. UCK!!

Here are some snap shots from Halloween... I wish I would have had more time to capture them. Oh well...

Halloween aftermath

Did ya'll have a good Halloween? I know our kids made out like bandits. I think we may decide to hide it all - out of site out of mind, or so we hope! We had a good Halloween. Grandma S and I took the kids to Vala's pumkin patch on Thursday. Wow! I can't believe how much there was to do! We started with the goats and the bunnies. There is a cute little sign that says something like, please do not cross - bunny homes only. Well, can you guess which of my children did not mind the sign. If you guessed Eli, you are correct. I turned to tell my mom something and glanced back and there he is, over the little fence peaking into the bunny house!! We walked through a house decorated as a spooky mine then off to pony rides - for all except Schuyler. She opted out b/c of her arm - can't blame the girl! This was Eli's first pony ride. It went around once and he said "done!". He actually made it the whole ride. So much else... train ride, jumping pillow, duck races, family go cart, play areas and it wouldn't be complete without the Hayrack ride, picking pumpkins, and treats at the end = ) Mom- I'm so glad you came with us = ) Only Schuyler stayed awake for the ride home!

Halloween was a good time. Schuyler was a Husker cheerleader (with broken arm), Mack was a lion, and Eli was a giraffe! We started great grandma's nursing home. Honestly, there buckets were full from that. We came home ate and got ready again...well the girls did. Eli did NOT want to put the costume back instead choosing to put in the living room. So, Mark took the girls and Eli and I handed out candy.

Some of you may know we were actually supposed to be in KC this weekend to purchase a new vehicle. Well, long story short, they accidentally sold our car. So, we're back to square one. On a bright note, we have ourselves a new computer... an IMac! I love it and I haven't even turned it on. The beautiful 24 in screen and sleek looks!!

Didn't want Schuyler to be left out of the fun. Here she is in all her toothless glory!

Last Thursday was conferences for all 3 kids. It went very well = ) Mack was the first one up. She has taken a strong interest in writing. For instance, she made little book about horse. You have to color in the body part of the horse and then write the name of the body part on the paper. So, forehead, body, tail, hindlegs, forelegs, etc.. Her horse was a little different as the hindlegs were in front and forelegs in back = ) Without her sister to follow, she has blossomed into a leader for the younger students = ) The challenge school and ourselves face is keeping the expectations high and communicating those expectations. For example, she can buckle her seat belt. But there are times when for whatever reason (tired, lazy, just doesn't want to, etc...), she won't buckle it.

Eli continues to speak new words on a daily basis. Even words that the school nor us as parents remember using. Books are a huge interest to him. He will take a large stack in the corner and flip through them. His ample climbing skills was noted as well. He's been found almost over the chain link fence at school. It doesn't take but a second or two for this to happen - we know from experience!

Schuyler is a strong student all around. Her teachers and fellow classmates find her very enjoyable to be around. She is one of the first to help when needed. I like to hear this as it's more a reflection of her. Along with the regular reading homework, and math, they are now adding spelling to the mix. They each have individualized spelling words to work on.

Our very good friend's, the Fogo's, were in town this past week for a couple's baby shower. They are expecting their first at the beginning of February. I can't wait to meet the little man. The parents have more energy than anyone I know so I'm sure their child will have an energy level off the charts.

If all goes as planned, I'm taking tomorrow off and the kids, myself, and Grandma Cindy are heading to Vala's pumpking patch. Also, I think we are very close to buying Mark a new car = ) We may be going to Kansas City this weekend to pick it up. Again, knock on wood

I took pictures of the Montessori kids again this year. I got this new backdrop off ebay and am loving it. Here's one of Eli. So much for keeping him clean that a.m. You can see some dark spots on his shirt. You can see more pics here.

One of Mack and Eli. I have to go back and rework this one. It's a little "flat" for my taste.

STOP class

I spent last night at STOP class and will be finishing up tonight. Can I say it's not nearly as painful as it was 9 years ago! The officer is is a great lady with personality and I've learned a lot from her real life stories as compared to the lecture man I had way back when. It makes me appreciate the job they do - not that I didn't in the first place - it's just they deal with so much than I ever realized. I've also come to the realization that there are a lot of driving teenagers and college students that really don't have a clue!!

Take female teenager #1 as our first example. She is 19 which means she's had her license a whopping 3 year. During this time, she has managed to go to 3 STOP classes - all in different counties and is on her 3rd car and has received numerous traffic violations. She was sitting next to a lawyer who offered her business card and said "Here, you'll probably need this!". Another comment was, "Let us know when you leave and we can all leave after you or before you".

Example #2 - male college student who was bragging that he was drinking and driving and only received a speeding ticket. Um, hello! Do you not realize the teacher is an officer!! He also believes it's incorrect for late night eating establishments (ie Amigos, McDonald's, etc) to call the cops if they small alcohol on a customer's breath or if the custome is acting irridically. I was shaking my head to myself in the back of the class room when the gal next to me piped up and asked if he, a family member or a friend had ever been effected by drinking or drinking and driving. His answer was of course "No". She replied, "You'll think different when it does". I said an Amen!

Mack has been diligently working on writing her name. However, we have found her autograph on the light switch, her sister's pillow, and the wall. She tried to blame her sister, saying Schuyler was the one writing McKenzie on everything. We working on this lying she has developed.

Eli has become a fountain of words, at least for him. He's putting two words together... bye da, mo please, help please, etc... and lot's more of one worders... buckle, strap, spray.

Schuyler got to practice with her soccer team on Monday. She was disappointed she couldn't play but who ever was sitting out would come and sit with her! She also got best dribbler award, which she was very proud of. She was able to do jazz yesterday so something to entertain my active girl. We saw the Dr. on Monday for a follow-up. The bones are still aligned nicely and she'll be in the big cast another 3 weeks.

Here's the cast again. This was after she woke up from a 3.5 or 4 hour nap. The girl was exhausted!


My sweet Eli. He can be the sweetest!

broken wrist = (

I'll start with the bad news (2 things) but I do have some good news, so if I forget, please remind me = )

Schuyler broke her left wrist on Sunday. Things have been a whirl wind. Where should I start?

On Sunday, I dropped Schuyler off at her best friend's birthday party at Lost in Fun, an indoor playland. I filled out the waiver form and on it left my home number. Mark was at a golf tournament and my dad was watching Eli and Mack so I could go to my photoshoot. Around 3:30, I get a call from my dad. Schuyler has fallen and her wrist/arm is injured - she is upset. They had tried calling my home but my dad couldn't answer at the time but luckily, my aunt was at the same place with her grandson and saw Schuyler and was able to call my dad on his cell and bring her home. Dad promises to keep me updated. I get the 2nd call just as I'm finishing the photo shoot. It doesn't look good and I probably need to take her some place. My photoshoot is within blocks of my home so I quickly say my goodbyes pack my gear and head home. I can tell my baby is hurt - it's in her eyes and it's painful for her to move it. We head to Linc Care and wait for what seems like an extraordinary amount of time. It's not until I take off the make-shift splint her arm was wrapped in that I can tell it's definitely broken. They x-ray the bones and agree. The PA comes in to tell me that it's broken and we need to see a Orthodpedic in the a.m. and prescribes Tylenol with codeine.

I'm upset for a number of reasons: I never got to actually talk to the Dr. on duty, it seems like service was so slow, what exactly did I sign on the waiver since I didn't actually read it, why didn't I call our Pediatric Dr. to see if they were open, why do these things happen when Mark is gone etc... It's a difficult night for Schuyler. She's in pain, restless and doesn't sleep much. We put her in my bed with me and Mark volunteered to sleep in the basement. I'm supposed to only give her the Tylenol every 8 hours or when needed but I didn't really follow this.

Monday comes with very little sleep for Schuyler and I. We get her into Nebraska Orthopedic at 10:30. It's actually broke in two places, but the one is barely broken, just "cracked". It's her left arm, right by her wrist. Dr. suggests that we re-align the bones with a manual procedure to insure proper healing. This means she has to go under anesthesia and a trip to Lincoln Surgical Hospital. They wrap her again - in a much better wrap and we're on our way to Lincoln Surgical. I call Mark to have him take the afternoon off. They get her prepped and she's a trooper - SO brave! The procedure is successful and the Dr. and Anesthesia Dr. come and talk to us and rave about what a great patient she is. However, after her stay in post-op, they bring her to me and she instantly starts crying. She is very confused. I'm holding her and she keeps saying I want my mommy, I don't like this hospital - I want to leave, mommy don't ever leave my side again, my tummy hurts, my arm hurts, I'm dizzy etc... It was more than enough to break my heart. The anesthesiologist says she was not like that at all in post-op but it is normal behavior. We try to get something in her stomach but she refuses and they won't give her pain meds until she eats. Ugh! We get her to eat a tiny something and they give her med. Then, she vomits = ( The nurse gets her a popsicle and Schuyler is okay with it. She's still confused but I just wanted to take her home b/c I'm sure she'll calm down just being out of the hospital. Mark's pulling the car up front and I'm in the wheel chair with Schuyler in my lap and sure enough, she starts to vomit and like most Mom's I try and cup my hands to catch it - Yuck. After that, she felt better. We got her home and she slept most all the remainder of the night.

She is in a cast up to her shoulder - it's yellow of course = ) She'll be in it for 3-4 weeks and then an abbreviated one for 2-3 weeks. Hopefully, we'll have it off by Thanksgiving. She was determined to go to school on Tuesday despite the fact she woke up at 5:45 a.m and had huge bags under her eyes. Her teacher called me before lunch and thought I should come pick her up - she's tired and her fingers are swollen. Schuyler rests and elevates her arm but isn't happy about missing school. She made it the whole day yesterday.

She's thought everything through - like the fact she's done with soccer for the year and will miss volleyball camp. We're not sure how long she'll be out of dance. She's very independent and doesn't like the fact she sometimes needs help when using the bathroom at school. However, she has enjoyed having friends and relatives sign her case but I'm pretty sure she still wishes this wouldn't have happened = (

Here's a few pictures to document...

Schuyler finally falls asleep watching TV on Sunday evening. Taken with super slow shutter speed so a bit blurry.


She's not looking but there is a frown on her face. This is before we went to NE Orthopedic.

The official wording, "displaced fracture @ distal end of radius proximal to wrist Left".

The major breakage is on the right side of the picture and the less concerning break on the left.

Tuesday a.m. Mark signing the cast.

The cast in it's full yellow glory!

The other bad news. Mark's car died on his way to Beatrice, prior to the arm breaking. The official word is it's done dealing and would need a whole new image. The cost of replacing it is not worth it. So, I think we're looking for a new car.

And, a little good news = ) I picked Eli up last week and they said they had news. I'm never sure how to interpret this since it could be good or bad! Eli went to the bathroom on the little potty. Wow! Apparently, he's been watching the older boys. So, we decided to get out our little potty out of storage. Just last night, before bed, he went for us. I'm not sure I'm ready to do the full potty training in full but he can certainly start sitting on it = )

H, for hard love and Huskers

So, I finally had the chance to go to a Husker's game. It's been at least 2 years since I've been to one in person b/c I've been pregnant or nursing. It's too bad it couldn't have been a better game. I also have to admit that these night games are just not my cup of tea. I am NOT a night person and my body just starts shutting down after a certain time! I went back to the van at the start of the 4th qtr and while Mark listened to it on the radio, I fell asleep! Sheesh!

Ms. Denie met with Eli last week at the Montessori and yesterday we had our home visit. She is establishing a relationship with him and working on speech. She is also coaching me on dealing with certain behaviors. He had one of his extreme meltdowns yesterday. Which is good from the standpoint that I need to know how to deal with it. It's also hard in the fact that I know I'm doing some things wrong. For example, I can ignore tantrums to a point. But once they get to that cry, the one where the gasping for air, or he's banging his head, I go and pick him up and give him loves. Well, this is rewarding him for his negative behavior. I'm not so good at the tough love thing. Let's just say there is room for improvement. This is where Mark compliments me well, he's much better at dealing with these situations than I am.

Schuyler has another loose tooth! Seriously, the girl has no front teeth how can she lose another one and how on earth is she going to eat. That would be a total of 5 teeth missing. Although, 2 of the bottom ones are slowly coming in. And, how does it go from barely loose to hardly hanging on in 1 day! I swear the girl plays with it all day long. She was saying this a.m. how she hopes it falls out at school so she can go to the nurses office!! Silly girl!

Here are some pictures. I'm always looking for a good excuse to take some pictures = ) So, when my niece Maddy found this dress of Schuyler's and we had other cordinating outfits, it only made sense to go take some pics. She was much more enthused than my kids. I like fresh meat!!

Here is one in b/w...

I like most of these in color. It's the combo of her beautiful blue eyes, dark hair, and gorgeous freckles!

Love the blue background of the dumpster, yes a dumpster, and the wind blowing their hair. See, Schuyler has NO teeth!

Ms. Mack working the camera!

Had to throw this one in! Last week, Schuyler's best friend rode with us to their Soccer game. I think she could totally fit into our family of blondies!

McKenzie - you know she's up to something! Liking the bowl that I just used to make scones. I guess you would call it scone dough! See the remnants around her face!!

swing time

As my the busy photography season has approaced, I've felt a need to capture the daily happenings in our life and have been pushing myself to look at things from a differenct perspective. The result, this cute picture of Mack. Maybe it's my mommy goggles but I find it pretty cute!



Last Sunday was a great day for Schuyler's soccer team. We saw some amazing things from these girls. We witnessed several pull backs in the game, Schuyler being one of them. Girls who are usually timid were coming out of there shells and scoring. And, speaking of scoring, Ms. Schuyler had 7 or more goals. She had a great game! I've been trying to teach her some new concepts but she's not always receptive if it comes from her mom. So, our coach has another team of 10 year old girls which he brings his daughter to. He invited Schuyler to join. She had a great time working on foot work and drills and was able to witness them scrimage. It was good for her to see the concept of space!

Eli is coming out with more words... arm and side (outside). His first session with the teacher last week went well. She was able to provide me with some cues to use to promote the use of speech. I really think he's on the verge of some break throughs.

Friday we had a lazy evening and enjoyed the sunset on the back porch. We taught Schuyler sprints and got the stop watch out. Eventually, we all took turns racing each other. I'm definitely not as in shape as I used to be!

We starting a new series at church that I'm really excited for. It's call my desperate household. This first message was great and I can't wait for the rest! If you are interested, you can find more info here.

caught red handed!

Hmm, what do you think is going thru his head. How about, "Sheesh, I've been caught again. Oh well"! See his little table in the bottom right that he pushed over. Pretty clever little man! He is starting to use some more words!! Shoe, Juice (refers to any drink), done, more, nana (banana), shar (sharp)! I met his teacher he will be working with this past Monday. Her name is Denie and I think she will be a great fit. It can't hurt that she has raised 4 boys of her own and has a grandson! She read his evaluation and the first words she said were, "Sounds like one of my boys"! We start working with her on Monday. We'll start with weekly visits with the intent to reduce down to once or twice a month after the first month.

Tonight is Fun Night at Schuyler's elementary. It should be fun. We told the girls if they get their room cleaned we would treat them to cotton candy!

I got to spend a little one-on-one time with McKenzie last weekend, which was good since her play date got cancelled. I took her for a little shopping and we stopped and got my mom. She truly does have distinct likes and dislikes when it comes to fashion. She got some silky ballerina pj's, a dress, a horse shirt, and a sparkly headband. She was very happy = )

always count your blessings

Before you go to bed, do you count your blessings? After an incident last Friday, I've been couting mine. The kids and I went to Runza to use our free ice cream cone coupons. It was a beautiful evening and we were eating outside. Eli had just got down from my lap and was looking at some rocks right beside me. I noticed his cone was getting down to the wrapper level so I went to take it off for him so he didn't eat it. After I did, he was MAD. He made a dash for the drive thru and I could hear a car coming. I screamed, probably at the very top of my lungs "NO!". He had both feet just off the curb and was ready to take another step and throw his spoon. Luckily, I was able to catch the hand that was going to throw the spoon and pull him back. The truck must have heard my scream b/c he had veered slightly away from the curb. My poor little boy was probably 6-12 inchs from getting hit. It was a big F150 truck and Eli's head would have taken the brunt of the bumper. People from inside came out and the driver of the truck was upset. It took me a moment to come out of my shock. Luckily we were all okay. After the driver left, and the people went back inside, I sat holding my head in my hands and cried. I sent a prayer up to God. There is no point to this story. It just needed to get off my chest.

On a more light hearted note. Schuyler had her first fall soccer game. She just loves soccer. She plays kickball every recess.

Mackie had her first dance class. I think the girl is in love with it. She didn't want to leave. She wanted to join Schuyler's class since it's right after her's on Tuesday nights.

Here's 2 of my beautiful sunshine! Look at that toothless grin in the last one!

Chindian

So, what is a Chindian you ask? It's a new McKenzism! We were being silly Monday night and there was left over flour on the counter and Mark was putting it on my face. It had been a challenging day with the kids and I commented that this was my war paint and he replied that I was the chief indian. Well, Mack walked in about that time and said "I want to be a Chindian too!". So, Chindian in our household represents "Chief Indian". And yes, all the kids had to have "war paint" on there fact too!

Eli has been giving us some good laughs as well. The boy loves lotion! He will cover his legs, belly, and arms in it. The other thing he has taken an interest to is his sister's music box/jewelry box. I think his main fascination is how to get the music to play and trying to figure out how to wind (sp) the box. The other thing about Eli, which he might get from his mom... he LOVES having his feet tickled. Before bed, when we're cuddling and reading stories he will sometimes stretch out and put his feet by my hands or up by my face. This is his sign that he wants his feet tickled.

I think my body is now in the routine of my new earlier work hours. I love picking Schuyler up from school! She is such a chatter box and I hear so much about her day = )

If you all have a chance, stop over to my photography blog. It was time to separate my personal life and photography business.

Here is the pic that would not upload last week. Eli getting a big smooch from his sisters'. I'm pretty sure he's not loving it as much as they are = )

getting better at updating!

I'm finally getting back in the rhythm of posting again!

Monday was Eli's 2nd evaluation with LPS and my mind has been put to ease. The boy is smart. He is cognitively where a 2 year old should be. However, his speech is lacking. He is not far from the average level. So, part of the problem is the fact he is preverbal. Part of the problem is there is such a gap between where he is cognitively and speech wise, that it is frustrating to him. Meaning, he understands A LOT of things but can't communicate back. Part of the problem is he is very strong willed and determined. So, we will begin the program with LPS and work on some of these things. And, I thought Mackie was the strong willed one!

8 years! Yep, Mark and I have been married for 8 years. We celebrated with a dinner out and NO kids = )

I hope everyone has a great labor day weekend! Since the patio project is complete, Mark will be putting the privacy fence back up. He'll take a break to watch the Huskers play = )

I have one more picture but blogger is having issues. Ugh!

because you requested....

So, I've heard from a few of you that you want more photos (and that I haven't been very good about updating). Well, ask and you shall receive.

Recent ones of the kiddos. Here is Schuyler. Our new nickname for her is "sunshine".


One of Ms. McKenzie. I think we should nickname her "fire" for obvious reasons.



Mr. Eli. Not sure about his nickname yet? See how blonde his hair is? We are talking white!



Eli's first haircut. "Hey lady, what are you doing with those scissor and my hair?"



"Oh my gosh! Something just fell from my head! I'm not sure I like this anymore!"



How cool is Schuyler in her yellow ball-cap and yellow YMCA t-shirt! Yeah, she was loving it! Here she is at first base.



I think she is thinking, "Me, me, I'm ready to play. Where should I go coach?" Makes me think of that song..."Put me in coach. I'm ready to play, today. Look at me. I can be ceterfield!"



Okay, now that we've got the good stuff done, let's go to updates. Last weekend was our last hurrah before shool started. We went to our fiend's cabin for fun at the lake and boating! The girls went fishing for the first time. Schuyler caught 2 and Mack caught 1 - both little blue gill. They were thrilled. Daddy on the other hand, sat for an hour or so with no luck = (

Monday was "safe walk to shool night" or basically open-house. So, the kids and I walked/strollered up to Sheridan. Mrs. Judd is Schuyler's teacher and she is fantastic. We got to tour the computer room, library, music room and the cafeteria.

Tuesday a.m., Mack came to the realization that it was Schuyler's last day and she was quite sad with big tears in her eyes. Poor girl. I had been so concerned about how Schuyler would do at Sheridan and how Eli would do without his oldest sis that I never considered the effect on Mack. After all, they pretty much do everything together. Schuyler was so sweet to her. She gave her hugs and told her they can spend the whole day at school together and she would make sure Mack could sit next to her at lunch. She even went and got the 2 "prettiest" barbies she could find and gave them to Mack.

Schuyler had an awesome first day of 1st grade. Her favorite part was hot lunch = ) She thought that was pretty cool. She has been very good about telling me about her day... recess, writing a poem, practicing letters, and doing math.

Eli had his first eval on Wed. It didn't go as I hoped but I had high expectations. I was hoping we would go in and they would say all his behavioral issues are b/c he is pre-verbal. We have the speech pathologist and behaviorialist/psychologist coming to our house on Monday.

Schuyler lost yet another tooth Wed night. After being in bed for half hour or so she came and found me with a tooth in her hand. Now, not only is she missing her middle two top ones, she is missing 2 bottom ones. Not the middle ones, but the ones next to them. I believe they might be incissors? Such a cute little toothless grin she has.

times are crazy

Wow, the times are getting crazy with summer wrapping up! The kids finished VBS with a rockin' finale. It was so fun to watch both girls get into it singing the theme song "POWER".

Schuyler has her last t-ball game of the seaons on the 3rd. She went out with a bang, getting 3-4 outs and hitting the ball hard - once to the outfield! She lost another tooth on the 1st. However, she was disappointed the tooth fairy didn't make it that night = ( Tooth fairy came the next night and left a note = ) Grandma took the girls back to Hastings to spend time with their cousins for 4 days. Eli enthusiastically waived them good-bye. We asked him the next day if he missed his sisters' and his response was a very clear head shake no and the words "uh-ugh". He missed them at school but enjoyed the extra attention at home. He also got his first haircut on the 3rd. She took off 1 inch all around but it's not short. We like the longer boy haircuts and who can resist his curls. He is the epitomy of blonde - we're talking white blonde! I think we might be starting to hear a few words? Maybe done and mine!

Schuyler is on the brink of loosing another tooth. It's barely hanging on. Once it's gone, she will be missing both of her top teeth! Today she had Camp Sheridan. I have such mixed emotions. She was beyond excited and then to find out that she actually knows 3 of the children. 2 from her soccer team and 1 from the Montessori.

McKenzie is enjoying the fact that she has a play buddy right next door now. I think they will be two peas in a pod. She has also created a name that I think is hilarious - Princess Loria. It's pronounced liked Gloria but without the G. She is also very proud that she is now in a booster car seat = ) It was funny how empty our bed seemed while she was in Hastings. She is our child that still creeps into our bed around 3:00 and 5:00 a.m.

Just a pic of Schuyler while she still had teeth = )

Poor Neglected Blog

My poor neglected blog! Sheesh. Where do I start? The girls have been attending Vacation Bible School at our church (VBS for short). They are having a BLAST. Tonight is the finale so we'll get to see them sing songs and watch a slide show of all the fun things they have been doing. Schuyler is in the same group as her best friend so it has been an extra special time for her. I was worried b/c they split apart the elementary students and pre-school students, meaning Mack wasn't with her sister. This actually worked well. The smaller worship area works better for the younger kids - they are not so overwhelmed and it's not near as loud. And, Mack has 2 of her friends from the Montessori. They are not in the same group but there groups rotate to the different activities together so she gets to be with them a lot.

Eli had his 18 month appt. As many of you are aware, he is not yet talking and has had some behaviorial issues which have concerned us. The doctor believes the behavior is a result of being "pre verbal" and once he starts talking the behavior will quite or at least decline. But, since he is not where other kids his age are, we are going through some screenings with him to rule things out. Lincoln Public schools will be coming to do an assesment and Mark and I are filling out a questionairre. Mark and I will complete this and our answers will be scored. Based on the score, we may need to have additional consultations or assesments done but will cross that bridge when/if necessary. Other than that, he is healthy, strong, active and tall! 90% for height, 40% for height.

A couple of weeks ago I got together with my good friend and fellow photographer, Holly. We attempted to get family pictures of the Riese's but some of the Riese kids did not feel the need to cooperate = ( We did enjoy the rest of the afternoon as mom's and kids went to the pool and dad's went for a round of golf! Here are a few from our session, all images courtesy of Holly Troxel Photography.

adjusting

Wow. It's been a long while since I posted!

Well, we had a good 4th of July. We went to a friend's cabin on the lake and enjoyed a day of swimming, boating, and tubing. All of the kids experienced their first boat ride and Schuyler even tried tubing! It has been so long since I have been tubing or boating. It brought back memories from when my uncle Ron would take us to the lake skiing. I remember skiing and tubing with my cousin. They would take us around the lake and try to get us to bite the dust - we were a little older at that point.

Eli started the Montessori the following Monday - the 7th. It has been a BIG adjustment for him = ( The drop-off the first few days were filled with a lot of tears. Then, with the suggestion of my husband, we tried something different. Instead of having the girls go straight into their room and Eli go into his, the girls (mainly Schuyler) have been holding his hand and walking him into his room. Things have got better and yesterday, there were no tears at all. As we guessed, his hardest time is when he can't see his sister's. When they are around, or when he is outside, things are fine.

On top of this, we were trying to adjust him to the toddler bed. He has good nights and bad nights. Sometimes, he wakes up with terrible night terrors where he is crying uncontrollably and will throw himself on the floor or bang his head against something. Nights like these I feel like I have an infant again but I feel so bad for him b/c he can't express any feelings = ( However, last night, despite his fight to stay up, once he was asleep, he slept the whole night.

I meet with the Dr. at the end of the month to discuss his speech and a few behaviorial issues. He is due for a vacination but we will discuss the other issues and see.

Mark was in a golf tournament this weekend. I think they won the calcutta and got 3rd in regular play but don't quote me on any of this! The girls enjoyed the new American Girl movie, Kit Kittredge, with Papa. And, I enjoyed a good girls night out on Friday!! Thanks ladies for getting me out of the house!

Pictures...