We May Need to Take Humor Classes

Chase (reading a Popsicle stick): "Why did the laces never win the race?" ... "Because all they could do was tie."
(Davis laughs uncontrollably)
Kai (not laughing): "I don't get it."
Davis: "Because... well you know that red ribbon? I guess some people call  them laces, that red ribbon you cross when you win a race? Well, when you cross the finish line you take the ribbon with you so really you and the lace just tie. No one ever really wins! It's always a TIE! Get it?"
Kai: "No. Not really."
Davis: "Well then I can't explain it to you."

Summer So Far

I knew this summer was going to be good when I picked Kai up on the last day of school and he asked, "Mom, I have stuff left over from class and I want to bring it all home, but my teacher said I have to ask your permission first. So can I run back in and get the rest of my stuff?"  How I didn't realize that question was vague and loaded is beyond me. It was begging for follow up, but I was in a hurry so I told him to go get it and hustle his little butt back to the car. It turns out the "rest of his stuff" was a small food container (the kind you buy potato salad in at the deli counter) with a Darkling beetle inside.

Kai's New Pet

He named his beetle Tunnel because he likes to dig tunnels, obviously.  As disgusted by the idea as I was, I have to admit he's really not a bad pet. For starters, he'll only live for about 3 months (short term pets are good pets). We rarely even see him because he spends the majority of the day hiding under the oats and soil in his small Tupperware box. Really the only draw back to the beetle is trying to explain why you have a box containing  dirt, oats, and an apple slice on your shelf.

However, I do have one word of caution to those of you who are now thinking about ordering one of these little babies (you can get them at Amazon.com btw). If you were to say...leave town for a week and leave your beetle in grandma and grandpa's care. Make sure they tell the house keeper to leave the weird dirt and oat filled box on the counter alone.  Otherwise grandma and grandpa may spent the better part of an afternoon trying to figure out where she "put it away." Though I have to think that day and a half Tunnel spent in my parents dark pantry were probably some of the best days of his short little life.

First Week of Summer 2013

Today was Madison's last day of school. Tomorrow is Davis' last day.  Chase and Kai have a few hours on Thursday--just enough time for a party (but don't tell Chase, if he hears the p-word he won't go).

Aside from a trip to Oregon to visit Michael's family we don't many summer plans.  Madison and Kai will be taking a couple of classes over the summer and Chase will be helping me keep an eye on the garden. Other than that we are hoping for some lazy summer days hopefully involving bike rides, family movies, and maybe even the occasional hike.

Kid History

Because Kai is one of the regulars at hospital he was asked to come to a little meet and greet with the Kid History Foundation.  Of course Kai was thrilled to meet the people responsible for the Kid History Videos as well as Michael (another regular who helped ease Kai's anxiety about getting a port). 

He had a great time and even got to be in a Thank You video the foundation made. If you haven't watched any of the Kid History videos you should, Kai's favorite is Episode 3 and, of course, you should check out their foundation too. http://www.kidhistoryfoundation.org/

Science Fair 2013

The science fair is today. Well technically for Kai's class it was yesterday but yesterday he was home sick with the stomach flu. This is the second time he's had to miss the science fair because he was sick. Unfortunately immune system disorders and winter don't get along. 

Yesterday Michael set his board up and left a little note by his research packet explaining that he was sick. We figured that way he was still sort of participating and it wasn't all for naught. He was still disappointed that he was going to miss the science fair again so we were thrilled when they said he could come today and compete with the other 5th and 6th grade classes. 

Knock 'em dead buddy.

Just a few things I found around the house after the the boys left for school.

A pile of pajamas by the fire.

An apple and a shirt on a kitchen chair. I'm pretty sure they had shirts on when they left 

...but this does make one wonder.

The peanut butter lid on a bar stool.

A forgotten sandwich on the bar.

And a bag of open bread under the Christmas tree in the front room.

All in all--a pretty typical morning.

So This is Christmas

Last week we decided it was high time we actually had family home evening and seeing how it was getting close to Christmas we thought it would be prudent to spend the night full of Christmas themed family togetherness.  We decorated the tree, sung Christmas carols, and great fun was had by all--except Chase, who every few minutes would stop and ask, "can I go now?"

We ended the evening by taking turns answering very serious questions regarding Christmas. I asked Kai if there was something he thought he might get for Christmas (likes socks or underwear) that he really didn't want. He said, "Hmm. I love everything I get. But if I had to pick something, I have to say I don't want anything girly." so Davis piped in and said, "Yeah, I don't want anything girly either! Like I don't want ANY fingernail polish or ANY make-up [insert long thoughtful pause] well actually I DO want fingernail polish and make-up" Kai started giggling so Davis glared at him as said, "But I don't want any more kids! We have enough of that."

We asked Chase if there was an activity or tradition he wanted to make sure we did this Christmas and he said, "I just want to do more fun things together as a family." I was touched and said, "Chase that's so sweet!" "Can I go do them now?" He asked. "Well, that IS what we're doing. RIGHT now." I said excitedly. He said, "Oh. I guess I meant to say I'd like to do more boring things by myself. Can I go do THAT now?"

First Day of School

Not everyone was thrilled to start school.

Davis has another week of carefree living before he's off to Kindergarten, but the other three started school today.

When Chase met his teacher at back to school night she asked him if he was excited for 2nd grade and he said, "I guess. The only problem is that I don't really like talking." "Oh are you shy?" she asked. "No," He said, "I just don't like talking."

For his first day of school Chase chose to wear his favorite pearl button cowboy shirt and jeans. He's still hoping for a new pair of cowboy boots while I'm still hoping to find a pair I'm willing to buy.

Kai decided that he wanted to wear what he calls his "skater outfit." This consists of his flying skateboard shirt, red skinny jeans, and blue high-tops. Mike said he's pretty sure boys don't wear "outfits" just clothes. I'm pretty sure Kai doesn't care.

Kai couldn't wait to get out the door this morning. He was excited because at back to school night his best friend, Jane, made sure they were assigned seats next to each other. I told him if he wants to continue to sit by Jane he'll have to be quiet and calm or his teacher will move him. This is no small feat for a 10 year old boy.

Madison is thrilled to be in 7th grade because she gets to take classes like art, photography, French, and P.E. Yep, she's even excited to take P.E. Oh and she gets a locker.

She saved money all summer so go back to school shopping with her Aunt Becca. When she got home with her new clothes Madison decided that she needs three "first day" outfits (she's a girl so she gets to use that word). One for orientation day (today), one for her first day of A schedule, and one for her first day of B schedule. She reasoned that because each of these days involve different classes and different people they were all technically "first days."

She's so old! I remember her first free dress day in kindergarten  when I asked her if she wanted to wear pink or purple socks and she replied, "Mom, they aren't pink and purple, they're coral and grape."

So here's to a new year--lets hope it's a good one.

Disneyland

One of these kids just turned 5. He is about to start kindergarten and is under the impression that he shouldn't ever have to change his clothes or brush his teeth.

When I told him to buckle his seat belt on one of the rides at Disneyland he said, "Mom, I know! I read the rules. It says, 'Buckle your seat belt and NO dancing.'"





Another one of these kids is 7. He is about to start 2nd grade and he will absolutely not smile unless he is truly 100% happy. He was underwhelmed by most of what Disneyland had to offer.

Toontown? I don't thinks so.  3D bug glasses? Not quite.  Train ride? Maybe. Cotton Candy? Closer.  Abraham Lincoln? 

Well, duh! Who could possibly resist the charms of Honest Abe!

One of them just turned 10 (today in fact). He is about to start 5th grade. He is growing up fast and I don't like it one bit. He's among the "big kids" now and was bound and determined to ride the roller coaster at Disneyland. He even talked a few other people into doing it with him.

Speaking of growing up fast, the oldest one is 12 now.  TWELVE. We're talking junior high people! Does this freak me out a little . . . of course it does. Pretty soon she'll wanting to stay out late and kiss boys. Fortunately for now she's satisfied driving a car and I'm okay with that.

Another Rousing Program

This morning was the boy's orchestra concert. I went early to get a good seat because I wanted to finally get a good picture of him playing his violin.

Unfortunately, he's short.

But I managed to a great shot of the tip of his bow

and a nice shot of his toes

and a fantastic shot of his shoulder.

Here's looking forward to next year.

It's Okay If You Spell It . . . Right?

Kai: These bug bites are driving me crazy! They itch like H-E-L-L!
Davis (very impressed): Whoa . . . Kai knows how to spell itchy?!!

New Toys

In October and old friend asked me if I was interested in a part time job at her company. I said yes and happily became a working mom. I worked with great people and I was able to work most of my hours from home. My job was awesome.

The Wednesday after Christmas Michael found out that the company he was employed with was shutting its doors. He was officially unemployed so I talked to my friend, became her new marketing manager, and switched from working part-time to working full-time. I loved my new job so much that I continued to work full-time even after Michael got a new job in January.

Unfortunately two weeks ago I found out that my boss had to sell the company and I was no longer employed. It was sad, but I have decided to do my own thing--more on that later. To put my new project in action I needed a great camera. I've been wanting one for years.  YEARS I tell you. I did a little research, talked to a few people and finally bought a Canon 60D. I absolutely love this camera.

You may want to click on these picture to see them larger.

I had no idea Kai made such serious faces when he was playing baseball.

Aside from cropping, I haven't done any editing on these pictures. They would look even better with some color correction.

Of all the pictures I took, this is my favorite. I'm thinking this boy is not meant to be the goalie.

IvIg

Today is our first in a series of monthly IvIg infusions.  So far so good. Kai even got to paint one of the ceiling tiles. We'll be here for about 8 hours but the nurses are pampering him so don't feel too bad for him.

Update: The whole process took almost two hours longer than they thought because of some problems putting in the IV and a headache he developed half way through. It was almost 10pm when we left the hospital. But all in all things went really well and next month should go off with out a hitch.

This Week the Boys Said . . .

Davis--

"That's enough chocolate for today.  Whoa . . . I mean for one day not two days.  Today . . . two days . . . that is REALLY confusing!"

"Grandma, are you having a hard time getting to the bathroom? You know, there IS an easier way.  Have you thought about an electric power scooter?"

 Chase--

"I don't know what to do! Sometimes I'm naughty and sometimes I'm nice. I hope Santa has a medium list."

Kai--

"Sometimes at recess I just like to walk around the school yard and think of really sweet chess moves.  In fact, today I came up with some AMAZING ones."

Is it Christmas Already?

This year has gone by way too fast and I find that I am incredibly unprepared for Christmas. But it seems to be coming regardless . . . so here a few things we've been doing this holiday season.

I tried to make brownies.

I really should stop telling people I can bring things with they invite us over. The worst part is that the brownies were from a mix.  Oh well, instead of brownies we took a plate with left-over Costco Almond Roca. Yum.

Madison successfully made a cake.

In fact, from now on Madison will be in charge of making what we take to our friend's houses. Now that she's tried her hand at cake decorating she wants us to buy her all the supplies for Christmas. I'm not against the idea.

Kai brought the class pet home for the weekend

This is the second weekend we've watched Rowdy, the class guinea pig--and we may be getting him over Christmas break . . . yeah. I don't really understand the appeal of guinea pigs. They aren't cuddly or fun in any way--but that being said, I've never had to chase a three legged guinea pig up the street.

Madison set up a lemonade/headband stand.

Yes my daughter sold lemonade in December . . . in Utah . . . and just to make it a little more strange she decided to sell headbands too. You want to know why? I asked, and she said she was trying save $800 because then she'll have enough money to fly to Italy and buy really good Nutella.

Kai had his first violin concert

He was, uh, kind of excited. But seriously, that kid is adorable and the suspenders just make him even more so.

Kai has been playing the violin for 4 months now. Incidentally, Madison started playing the oboe around the same time, and I honestly don't know which is worse, new oboe or new violin.

Chase lost his first tooth.

Loose teeth are usually a pretty big deal around here. In fact, some of my kids make a ridiculous production out of the whole thing.  But Chase is his own man.  He played with his tooth for a week and announced  that he needed a napkin at breakfast. I handed him a napkin and he handed me his tooth. He was obviously thrilled about the whole thing

Davis had his last preschool program.

I have been to this program EIGHT times now. Twice for each child. Eight years and this was THE FIRST year I was able to get a seat close enough to get a decent picture.  This what I got . . .

 

I give you 1. Davis taking his costume off 2. Davis making a weird face, and 3. Oh my goodness I think he might need to pee.

Merry Christmas! 

Halloween 2011

I already wrote about Madison's costume.  But here's another picture--just because.

She told me she's not sure if she wants to go as a dead ballerina or candy corn next year. I asked, "Go WHERE?" Next year she'll be in Junior High and I'm pretty sure that's the trick-or-treating cut off.  I'll probably end up making that dead ballerina costume anyway because, remember, she gets invited to parties now.

Kai went as a wizard. The first picture is how I told him to pose and the second how he thinks a wizard should pose. Apparently he thinks wizards are like rappers.

For the robe, I had him lay down on both pieces of material (the black with stars and silver lining) and cut around him in the shape I wanted.  Then I sewed up the seams.  I call this the Disney princess version of sewing. Then I took an old witches hat from a previous costume and covered it in fabric left over from Madison's skirt.  I stuffed the top with tinfoil so it would stand up the way I wanted it to. The staff is a stick with painted rocks wired to the top.  It was pretty heavy and got to be a pain to carry. We probably should have made the rocks out of Styrofoam.  

Chase doesn't do Halloween and told me he didn't want a costume, so I didn't make him one.  But one night last week as Michael and I were putting the finishing touches on the other costumes, Chase started grabbing left over supplies and made himself an elephant costume.


Unfortunately, or fortunately--depending on your point of view, when it came time to go to the ward Halloween party he ditched his elephant costume and just went as Chase.

Don't worry, if he'd decided to wear his elephant costume I would have made him put on some pants.

This is Chase as Chase--cowboy shirt, bolo tie, gray mouse in the front pocket.

Anytime someone suggested he was dressed up like a cowboy he would get upset and say, "NO. I'm just Chase."

The boy really doesn't like Halloween.  I had to pick him up from school early on Halloween because he didn't want to be in (or even have to see) the Halloween parade, eat the special Halloween lunch, or have anything to do with the class Halloween party.  He told me that Halloween is ruining his life.

So instead of trick-or-treating he chilled at Grandma's house and was plenty spoiled. So much so that the other kids are contemplating skipping trick-or-treating for a night with Grandma next year.

And last but, if you've spent anytime with Davis at all you'd know, certainly not least, Davis decided he wanted to be a robot for Halloween.

Michael took this one on.  He took a garbage can and created a robot costume complete with blinking lights and beeps.

I covered it with tinfoil and made the hat--which should be obvious because it has hearts on it. However, the hat got to be too much, and after two houses it came off never to be worn again.

Happy Halloween!!

And He Used to Think I Was 25

Kai:  Mom you know how I wore my Oregon Ducks jersey to school today?  Well when I was going into class this older kid yelled, "Dude!  That jersey is SICK!  Just SICK!" But don't worry, because when, like, young and cool people say something is "sick" they mean its like "really cool" so, you know, it's like a good thing.

Its A Miracle My Children Don't Show Up At School Naked

Exhibit A:

Me:  Kai, are you sure want to wear a long sleeved shirt to school? 
Kai:  Its cold in the morning.
Me: Why not wear a short sleeved shirt and a light jacket so you won't be hot in the afternoon?
Kai:  My light jacket doesn't have a hood.
Me:  Neither does the long sleeved shirt you're wearing.
Kai: I think I'll just wear my blue shoes.  Thanks though.
Me:  I'm so confused right now.

Exhibit B:

Chase:  Mom.  I can't find any pants. 
Me:  What about one of the three pair you knocked out of your basket and are currently standing on.
Chase (looking down):  Wow.  That's a lot of pants.

For Your Viewing Pleasure

Some day I will get a good picture of all my kids together.  Until that day I give you attempts 275,489 through 275,494

Back To School

As the first week of school draws to a close I am finally getting around to posting our first day of school pictures.

Thanks to many bags of awesome hand-me-downs Madison didn't really need any new clothes for school. I love hand-me-downs.  I did, however, agree to buy her a new outfit for the first day. Did I mention that she is in SIXTH GRADE now!  This is her last year of elementary school and I'd be lying if I said that didn't scare me.  In fact, lets not talk about this anymore.

Kai is now officially growing like a weed.  He's grown so much the doctor said his friends won't recognize him when he goes back to school.  That ended up being a moot point because a few days before school started he was offered a spot in the 4th grade class at the same school Madison goes to.  He was, of course, thrilled to be going to school with his sister.

A few weeks before school started Chase fell IN LOVE with a pair of bright blue skinny jeans at target.  He begged for them.  You have to understand Chase doesn't really ask for things, especially things like bright blue skinny jeans.  But he was determined to wear them on his first day of school so I bought them.  He put them on in the morning and I tried to find a matching shirt (it wasn't easy but I managed) and he finished getting ready for school.  Only, he wasn't very happy.  In fact, he was down right moody.  When I asked him if he was nervous he said, "No.  Only I don't think I like these pants like I thought I did."  I was so relieved.  Frankly, I think he looked a little funny in those pants.  So we did a quick wardrobe change, took a new picture, and ran to school.

And of course there is Davis.  Davis is now going to preschool three days a week--in the afternoon.  Which means I can go to lunch with out him.  I told Michael I need a stipend.  He thought I was joking.  He was wrong.

Life just gets better and better.