Welcome to another week in life.

It's started out gray and cold. I've got Caleb to school without event and was productive while he was in school. From here is kind of goes down hill.

Caleb's backpack was accidentally picked up by someone else and now is missing.
Grocery shopping took 2 hours! When does it ever take me two hours! And it was soooo very hard to get all the things that I thought we needed and try to stay on or within reason of the budget. It hasn't been this hard in months. I guess we must be stocking up on things I'd let our stock run out on. And my feet and calves were in agony by the time it was over. I just gave up the idea to get to the library. (Maybe the new shoes bought at 60% off will help, of course it's probably why it took longer to shop.) I just got an email reqgarding my work that the stores were wrong in telling me they didn't have the Halloween product/display, so I have to go BACK and re-work the stores! sigh. I spoke with Mike, Joshy turned up sick today, of course he really wasn't awake until he was already at Grammy's house. He was so excited to see her and he drew her special pictures, but then he ended up sleeping alot during his visit with her.

Shooter had jumped out of my arms when spooked by the kids and kind of hurt his foot. By he's been on temporary isolation (he's allowed out, but no holding because in the kid's case that also means squeezing). I sit at the hutch entrance with the door open and allow him to hop into my lap. (This is how I know he IS putting weight on his hurt foot, although it is the last foot to come down when he hops.) He seems to be improving each day which leads me to believe it was a straing of a muscle or a bruise. He hops like lightening and stands and it stretching in and using it for grooming now, I'm just going to give it a few more days of non-holding to ensure a full healing. He is really enjoying the times that I allow him to run in the backyard, and while the weather is tolerable, I should do so. He just hops and nibbles his way through the yard and then comes back to check in and then is off at the speed of light again. Mike even made a ramp for Shooter to hop back into his hutch if he wanted to. I'm still always out there for supervision though.

Kindergarten Cirriculm night is Thursday, same with Awana. Last Thursday night was PTA. And last Thursday, Caleb was acting so disobedient and crazy that the director actually got him and Jockey confused and sent Caleb back to the Cubbies class... We had a talk. I am hoping that he will understand the seriousness of the situation and improve his behavior because he is learning his verses which was impressive to have learned it as fast as he did. So we will see.

So I'm keeping busy and trying to keep the kids busy too. Caleb and I played catch, trimmed back the trees, bushes and weeded yesterday too. I didn't get any household cleaning done today but I'm still exhausted. Joshy kept me up late last night, maybe that's why.

Ok, I'll keep you posted. Bye for now.

Greetings from Mid-September. I can't believe it, this month is flying by. We are so busy that I know I'll wake up in three years (or July) and realize that the time flew past me while I blinked.

Josh is well established in his class. Miss Lisa said so today, he's doing great. He has been attending without pull-ups on, and much to every one's relief, no problems yet. I get home the work he's painted and cut... and when he cuts, he keeps on cutting until the whole page is in pieces. He is really excited to run into school each day, which is unique as it turns out, I heard many a wails in the halls today at drop off time. In the meantime, when Joshy is not at school, he is in LOVE with the Caillou show. He begs for it all the time, at all times of the day. It's a cartoon about a little boy and his adventures with his family, Canadian based. Perfectly acceptable content, but definitely something I don't want to sit down and engross myself in. But Joshy is in LOVE with it. This is Joshy's phase similar to Caleb's Buzz Lightyear infatuation.

Caleb is learning, but I can't help but wish I knew exactly what was said and what topics were broached. It's a public school, so of course I'm on guard. I was told today they learned about space bubbles (I know, sounds like something out of Star Wars.) And they are learning which problems they should try to resolve on their own through sharing, talking, or walking away... and which are big problems that require and adult. On the surface, I agree, but I can't help but think of the exceptions or worry about the child's judgement skills... or the ramifications later (Caleb choosing which problems to tell me about and which ones he THINKS he can handle.) We've already had to have formative discussions about certain books we don't want him to choose when he is given the opportunity to choose. I'm truly surprised that he remembers what I tell him when it comes to this type of instruction (subjects that oppose Jesus' rules), yet he still can't remember that I asked him to pick up his toys. When he can repeat back the things I instruct him about Jesus and his choices at school, I can't help but feel a confidence him though; I'll always have to watch out for the insidious things, because he won't see it coming at this point. But that's my job.

I'm considering going to the PTA meeting this Thursday. I don't know if I want to be on a committee, but I do want to be aware. Curriculum night is coming up, and it is also an open house night for Caleb to show me around his class. I'm going to take the opportunity to find out what books Caleb is exposed to, and a list of other things. Joshy will be at Cubbies and Caleb will be in the school's gym during the parent's only portion. I think it will all work out ok.

Speaking of Cubbies. Both of the boys have been to their first night in Awana for the year. Josh is in his own class for Cubbies with his own vest and book. Oh boy was he excited about that. The first verse was hard since he was handed the book 30 seconds before, and the teacher was new. BUT, he's already working on this week's verse and doing well.
Caleb is in a new class too, called Sparks. He gets a brochure to learn one long verse, accomplishing that earns him his verse and book. We're working on it. He is having some problems, and they are in a new league with higher expectations for him than in the old Cubbies he was used to.

Personally, I'm trying to take note and enjoy these few days of beautiful sun. I have a sense of the grains of time sifting away before the looming doom of gray settles over in October. So I'm trying to get things done. I'm frantically working to live up to my own expectation of completing Joshy's 3rd year scrapbooking pages, only 2 left, so I feel mostly accomplished. I have bigger projects coming and I promised myself I wouldn't start those until I completed this. Also, I worked (outside of the house) the last two days while the mice were away, my does the time fly.

Joshy spent Monday with Grammy Dahl. He was VERY excited about the idea of going swimming. He is now pushing off and going out 6-8 feet into an awaiting adults arms. He loves to dive under, look at and retrieve items. Josh also went to Wiggle Worms, but he was by far too advanced for that program. I'm so glad that this isn't his challenge; I've met two moms this week with autistic children and I am blessed to just have disobedience to deal with.

Shooter has begun to enjoy backyard free for all time. I sit out and supervise him, but he loves to get a good distance of hopping/running in and discovering all the yummy munchies in the yard. Our yard is simply a treasure trove for bunnies (and it's great he instinctively stays away from the bad plants like rhodies, buttercup, etc.). He loves the fresh air and the chance to cool off in the long, damp, green grass. He also loves to cuddle outside; I got a full 1/2 hour one evening of him nestled under my chin and ear. This is something my childhood rabbit never did and I think it's something I missed.

As for the rest of the week: Caleb has a dentist appointment on Thursday. I work on Friday and have a MOPS meet and greet. Mike works this weekend, I am trying to build up the energy to have a garage sale and boys at the same time. And I might go play bingo and have some Me time. Well, see. I just can't believe how busy life has become. I feel like I'm on a merry go round, fun, but so fast everything is a undeniable blur.

That's all for tonight.

A little catch up here...

The first day of school. After the orientation days, the kids were very confident; joshy was even more ready that Caleb. Joshy was off and running without barely a look back to see where we are. He knew the routine of washing hands and then going to class without being told. He sits really still and in awe during story/singing time. Although, 2 days into school, and I can see he's learning "boy" behaviors from the other boys. Silly stuff that fills in empty time before the teacher's structure takes over... pounding yourself in the head with your own fist while saying ahlaahla. Boy stuff. Most ironic, Josh's nickname is finally becoming useful not just cute. There is another Josh in the class and he most definately goes by JOSH or JOSHY, so I told the teachers that my guy answers so Joshua (actual that was his choice for the name on his b-day cake) and he also answers to Jockey. Well since Jockey is so much different than even Joshua, there would be no confusion by the boys or the tongue slip by the teachers... so officially JOCKEY is his name at school, and so it begins. The teacher tried it out and sure enough, he answered to jockey when she called out on the playground. Also, it's important to note, he has not worn a diaper/pull-up yet to school, or during the day for that matter in over 2 weeks. I keep holding my breath waiting for the day that I get the call to come and get him because of an accident. So far so good, especially when I ask him, make him try, and told him that if he had an accident they would kick him out of school. (I know a little dramatic, but he's insisting he's a big boy.) But like I said, so far we are doing great!

Caleb was excited and just a little unsure because it was all new... orientation day did NOT have so many kids and parents and cars swarming! But we took the time to get out of the car and walk him over to the playground and stayed until the first bell to make sure he heard it and knew what to do. Parents are not allowed inside the playground or school without stopping at the office for a guest badge, so we had to wave good bye when it was time for school to start. He did ok, obviously, we got him back in one piece at 11:25 the same day. And the days since we are trying to streamline the drop off and pick up process, as well as getting in the habit of doing homework. I've found that it is fastest to do the drive-up pick up. Parents stay in the car and they bring the child to the car. I started thinking about it, and it's all new, they don't know Caleb well yet, let alone me or my car on sight... so like the airport, I made a sign with his name on it and now put it in the window of my car so that the teacher/principal/couselor can see it from 40 feet away and get Caleb fast. They saw it and thought it was a GREAT idea, I told them I didn't know why they didn't recommend it to everyone. Caleb can even recognize his name on the sign, too.

Also, since there is a concern about getting all the way over to Joshy's school on time, I made arrangements with another mom (Caleb's friend Alan's Mom). She has to hang out from 11:30 to 11:45 because her two kids release at different times (Annette is in Joshy's class, & Alan is in the same school); Claudia generously offered to take responsiblity for Joshy for any incidental minutes of time lapse between the Joshy's release and my arrival. I was very grateful and right away discussed it with Joshy's teachers and put Claudia on the "Ok to pick up list" for legal reasons. I'm relieved that I have a back up plan in place on the off chance that something arises with Caleb or I'm at the end of the line picking him up. And yesterday, I was on time, but we also stayed to play and waited for Alan to get out of school so that Caleb could play with Alan for a while too. Hey, it's sunny and other than lunch, I didn't have anything planned. I should be flexible and allow these small joys in the boys' life.

Shooter rabbit has become a fixation of Caleb. Caleb begs to be allowed to play with the rabbit and hold it and feed it. Since the rabbit and the dogs aren't exactly on cuddling terms, the times or methods of getting safe time with the rabbit are limited. Inventiveness had to answer that conudrum, Caleb now sits inside the big dog run, in the grass with Shooter. It's big enough for the both of them, and Shooter gets to nibble on the grass and clover. Caleb's "rabbit herdsmanship" skills are doubling each day. He just might be ready for 4H soon, we are looking into all that 4H involves. Joshy, of course, loves Shooter, but he has not learned to hold still and let the rabbit come to him. He loses patience and tries to pick up the rabbit in all sorts of ways, none of which makes the rabbit feel safe or desiring of being held. Shooter comes into the house at least once a day to hop around and explore. He has a litter box, which he uses, but there is also such a thing at rabbit markings which means he drops a pellet for scent purposes (it's almost like he leaves a trail to find his way back home by). And I'm not going to lie, we have had to purchase Nature's Miracle for other accidents. On the bright side, Shooter is cuddly when everything is calm, he will "relax" which means he lays on his side without his feet under him ready to run. He relaxes next to the tv, or even right next to us on the couch. Shooter is also doing a circling behavior which means he's in bunny love... he circles me. We are reading all sorts of bunny behavior and training books to understand this new little guy. We'll get the hang of it soon.

Mike is feeling better after 5 days of illness, and so far (crossing my fingers, toes, and eyes) none of the rest of us show signs of being sick!

Awana starts this week. I have a parent's night at Jockey's school tonight. Yesterday was my first day without both kids and it made me see a dim light of free time, enough to consider perhaps taking on some form of involvement with MOPS; MOPS is having trouble getting going because of lack of leadership... it meant so much to me that I'm willing to be involved to have that special time 2x a month. We'll see.

So that's the last few days in a nutshell.

SCHOOL





We have had both Joshy's Jitters Day and Caleb's Orientation Day.





Joshy was excited that he finally was able to do all the things that he had seen big brother do before, but in the past he'd been held back from. He went right into the Jungle room past everyone and started to play. I had to lure him out with finding his cubby to hang his jacket. Then we ran down and saw the all important POTTY room and washed our hands. Then we went into the coveted art room where Joshy was thrilled to paint! Also, they have a nice bin filled with rotating mediums (rice, seeds, sand, water, etc.) that he was finally allowed to scoop, dig and bury items. It turned out to be a potential "drop off" day, I had thought that it was a parents stay day. So with many things to do, I asked Joshy if it was ok to leave. "Yeah". I introduced him to his teacher (the person he has to ask to use the potty room) and then set him down. I said, "Ok Josh, we're going to go now, see you in a little bit"... I don't think I even got a good bye he was so engrossed with the various things to do!



Caleb's Orientation was today. We drove over and found his room, introduced ourselves, got name tags and found his seat in the class. While he colored, I had paperwork. Then it was time for the teacher to tell us about his HOMEWORK for tonight, then we had an activity that found different sites in the class for the backpacks, the cubbies for papers, the bathroom, drinking fountain, and the "Meeting Place" (carpet for reading, singing songs, listening and chatting.) Then it was off to tour the building/office/playground/recess bathrooms/outside line up and parent pick up locations. The tour ended where the kids get picked up outside, and Caleb kept saying he felt like he got kicked out. I had to convince him that there was nothing else to see and the teacher really did want to see him tomorrow. Caleb showed signs of what I'm fearing most: NOT Listening! GRRRRrrrr. At one point, the teacher said "Ok, Kindergarteners, you can come over to the meeting place and we will read a story." All the kids but Caleb and one other went over and sat down. Caleb was too engrossed with a pencil sharpener to pay attention. I actually had to stop him and ask him to look around and ask him what he thought he should be doing, where was everyone. "I don't know". I'm just shaking my head and to be honest, dreading yet expecting the hours that I will have to sit in a tiny chair going to Kindergarten for the second time in my life. (Dear Lord, please please don't make me go through kindergarten a third time.) On the biright side, the teacher is very nice, seems to manage the number of kids well, appears organized and explains things clearly, also, she appears receptive and cooperative from a parenting standpoint. Of course, it is just the day before the first day of school, the action hasn't started yet! Caleb has been given homework too. 15 minutes of reading with a parent for 20 days of the month, 3 activities each week to choose off a handed out sheet, and additional math games/activities. Since Caleb doesn't read, it sounds like PARENT homework to me, reading, getting supplies, making sure it's completed, initialing off the items.... At the end of his high school, I want a second diploma.



So that's the last few days. Tomorrow is the actual, real live, FIRST DAY. And it will be tight. Drop off for Caleb, is between 8:40-8:50, drop off for Joshy (T/Th) 9:00, which is manageable.... BUT, pick up for Caleb 11:25-11:35, pick up for Joshy 11:30. CLOSE, really close. I think I'll put a big sign on my car saying which child I'm there to pick up so that it goes faster (since they bring the children to the cars if they are in the line up drive through.) And I'll have to explain the situation to Joshy's teacher. I'll just have to do the best I can.





And of course, Shooter bunny is still at the forefront of the boys' minds. They can't get enough time petting him. We went online, printed off a copy of all the safe and unsafe things for the rabbit to eat. Then we toured the backyard and looked at all the things that we had and instructed the kids on what ok or that will hurt their bunny. The good thing, our back yard had loads of yummy weeds: dandelions, clover, big grass, even blackberry. And yummy planted strawberries, raspberries, blueberries. The bad thing: we have pervasive problems with Buttercup. It has a root system that is stubborn and prolific, and worst, it looks similar to strawberry leavse. And we also have hydreagea (maybe, or it might have died) and rhodies (although they are looking too healthy either) so maybe their risk will go away on it's own. While we were told that the bunny wouldn't seek out the things it knows are bad, we are trying to head off what is stuck into his hutch through the mesh. So for the bunny's sake, NO strawberry leaves and no buttercup leaves. And the boys seem to be doing ok, so far cross our fingers, with their horticulture skills. And we are either on our way to a plump bunny or one with the runs. And I'm very excited about the fact that there are several things that we have either in the yard or in our refrigerator that he can have.... we are half way there to a "natural" fed bunny!

We allowed Shooter to run on the floor today of the TV room. He rubs his chin on things to make it his own territory, he will approach those who hold still and even circle them (a sign of love), he has a litter box (AND HE'S USED IT!!!), he does a little run and a four off the floor leap every once in a while. Lastly, I'm relieved to say that he even relaxes enough to lay fully stretched out tummy on the ground in the shadow of the TV with the cool laundry room draft rushing over him (he tends to get a little warm in that room with the doors shut and the sunlight beaming in.... wait until winter it will be perfect.) He is turning into a little love, but doesn't like fast movement, crunchingsounds, being grabbed at, etc... but would you? Mike made him some chewing toys out of seasoned wood. And he is getting along well. I just wish the dog's interest would wane... ALOT. We'll work on it. Today, Shooter had a special attachment to Caleb... or it could have been the apple that Caleb was holding and eating when Shooter was out.

So that's it for today. I'm hoping to get a few pictures of the boys on their FIRST days at school, and will do my best with the drop off/pick up times as they are! Until next time, have a great day!

HAY, EveryBUNNY, we are home and so is Shooter the rabbit.

We have debated the name. Caleb thinks Hopper is a good nickname, Joshy suggested Bush and Bushwhabbidt??? (like bush whacked?) and I thought Salad (as in Salad Shooter)..... well, I think that the name Shooter is stuck. So that's it. Shooter.

Here are a few pictures of our adoption process:

We, as you know, found and became enamored with Shooter at the Fair.

This is the breeder taking her moment to say good bye. (She was sad when her daughter decided that Shooter would go up for sale, it was one of her favorites.)

Yes, we brought Shooter home in a Huggies Baby Wipes box. It was customized with air holes, and now is his nesting box in his hutch.

And lastly, the introductions (dogs to rabbits) and, of course, lots of holding and cuddles.

We got a really good deal on a Hutch off of craigslist, Monroe Farm and Feed has really good prices on the food and pellets... we are set.

Shooter is home, he is eating well, he's getting settled in and will calm down from the fair activity within the next couple days. He's gone around and sniff all of his hutch and rubbed everything to make it smell like home to him. He is already a big cuddler, including being held while on his back. The kids are straining against the rules to hold still, move slow, be gentle and the bubbling over excitement. I try to make them take turns to hold the rabbit, but when it is not Joshy's turn, his eyes well up and puffs out his lower lip and says "I want to pet my bunny" and then cries or Joshy says "I want my own rabbit [to hold]". (no way, little dude.)

********** ***************** ***********

In NON-rabbit news: Joshy is doing REMARKABLY well, darn near 100%, on the potty training. He is just doing awesome! And on his birthday, I put him in a pull-up, he was so embarassed. He just buried his face in the couch or hung back in the other room. I finally went over and asked him what was wrong and he told me that he was a big boy and that he wanted to wear underwear like a big boy. OKAY! And to my recollection, we have zero to just one accident since his birthday party! I don't include nights, but he's been dry most mornings too! Which is all fantastic because tomorrow (TUESDAY) is Jitters Day at Preschool. Time for teacher, room and building introductions. Getting comfortable in that environment, to include learning where the potty room is! He's excited. He has another success tonight and he said "Now I get to go to preschool" and I finally got to say "You're right and that's tomorrow!".

Caleb was approved for MORNING Kindergarten! YEAH!!! It is going to be hard to get out of the door every morning on time and getting 3 people ready, BUT it is the best decision for Caleb. And I'm relieved that I didn't have to do more confrontation with the school than I already did. Orientation is on Wednesday morning. We meet his teacher, learn where his room is etc.

For both boys the first actual, "normal" day of school is Thursday. Oh gee, what will I do with myself for 2 hours?? Not surprising, I already have 100 answers to that question (grocery shop, clean house, laundry, bank reconcilations, scrapbook, cuddle the new bunny.

Awana starts on the 11th for both boys. And I haven't really mentioned a bunch about that, I'm sure if they knew that they would be over the moon excited about that, too.

That is all for now, as if that isn't enough, right?! Hope you enjoyed the pictures and wish us good luck with bunny/children/dog interaction. Good night.

OK. First things first. We got the call Friday, Caleb has been approved for MORNING Kindergarten! Yahoo. It's just what is best for him!

Now for a little Catch up:

These are some pictures of Joshy's B-day party.

Then these are some of the pictures from our adventures of the fair. (Unfortunately the day we rode on the rides (oh boy did they have fun), but I forgot my camera, which might have been a good thing since we were soaked to the bones and dripping wet when we finally got home... wouldn't have wanted the camera to die a wet death.)

(in this last one, mine are 1- the top, second one in from the left...lavendar with 2 black circles. AND 2- the bottom right with the big "Class Winner"Ribbon next to it!!!)

LASTLY, But big news:

We are the "owners" (deposit has been made, and will be released on Labor Day evening) a BUNNY RABBIT. Yes, we are; we did it. We might question our sanity later, but the kids are in love. (I'm gettin there too.) Here he is:

So the details: Male(Buck), Junior at the age of 4 months old (born 4/25/2008), his coloring is called a "Broken Tortise", kind of a rare color combination actually. His name is "Shooter", after some country western song... but I don't know if the name will stay. Very alert, and shockingly cuddly with us (shocking because we are strangers, but he practically fell asleep in my arms). He will reach approximately 4.5 pounds as full size. The breed is a Mini Rex, aka "The velveteen rabbits", because they are as soft as a chinchilla. We talked the ears off a few breeders and spent many hours on several days looking at rabbits. This is a breed well known for being good with young children both in size and temperment. Rabbits in general haven't any diseases, don't require vaccinations, don't get fleas, if exposed to other animals (chickens) they might get mites which is simply solved with cat flea powder. Their maintenance is basically food ($16 for 5 months), water, handle it and cuddle it, clip it's toe nails (which we are lucky and Shooter's nails are white and easy to see the quick), and help it stay cool on some of our hotter days. We feel well informed by the breeders we spoke with, and all the information we received is confirmed and exhorted by what we in our research. We spoke extensively with the kids about responsiblity, etc. And bottom line, the breeder said that if it doesn't work out, we can ALWAYS bring him back. So he is in the competition at the Evergreen State Fair (of course we are cheering him on for his breed and color class), and we will pick him up on Monday evening.

Anybody know where we can get a super affordable rabbit hutch? LOL.

"Buhdat buhdat, That's all Folks!"

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO JOCKEY!

Joshy turns 3 today!

We went out and took portraits this morning. True to 3 yr old charm, it was a bit like pulling teeth to get a good smiling shot, but I think we got passible shots.
Speaking of shots we also make a tearful trip into the pediatrician for the vaccines required to get the boys into school. Of course it hurt, are you crazy, but the crayon shaped band-aids, pencils and stickers helped.
Then it was off to drop Caleb off for tennis and swimming and for the rest of the week. We chatted with Papa Dahl and Charlotte before running up to pick berries. I got nearly a gallon jug picture full before the rain came down to drench. The upside, Joshy got a chance to go swimming on his birthday. The big three year old got to go into the pool and hot tub by himself (which 2 lifeguards, mommy AND Grammy and occasionally Daddy watching.) He had a very good time, and was sleeping before we left the parking lot.
We ended Joshy's day with a couple errands and dinner, mostly because Joshy wanted to just was "shows" (specifically Cailou) or answer "poopy head" to what he wanted for dinner. Did I mention he was three.
We are within sight distance of being potty trained. If we are at home we are 90%, if we are out... all bets are off because he doesn't know when or where the potty is available. I'm hoping that preschool will become routine and familiar to him (also for Awana, which is only 1.5 hours which isn't too long of a time duration to "fake" it.)

So Caleb is with Grammy this week again until Thursday. I saw his tennis lesson a bit today. He was with just one other little girl and the trainer, darn near private lessons. And he really is enjoying it. And he is swimming like a fish. He is diving to the bottom of the 4.5 ft pool at the club with all bravery possible. He still stays a little near the edge for a hand hold when he comes up, but that's fine.

Joshy and I have errands and things to do this week and we are going to be busy. And I do hope to get the rest of the scrapbook pages for his previous year completed. I didn't make the deadline this time for the first time and I've promised myself no other projects until I get his completed.
On a sidebar, I saw at the fair that my photos won 2nd, 2nd and 3rd stickers. But, TOOT TOOT (my horn), I won "CLASS WINNER"(actually get a ribbon and maybe $ for it) for one of my scrapbooking entries, and a 1st sticker for the other. I'm happy. And surprised. It was the "My Buddy Buzz (as in Lightyear)" that won. I truly went in to see how good the winner was and what they did that was so great so that I could improve myself. I didn't expect class winner. And I was reading a book this last week..... Concept: Why are we defined by our occupation, rather than being defined by what we love to do and makes us feel alive. Well, I'm annoucing, I want to be known for my interest and performance in painting, photography, scrapbooking and floral design (a fair cateogory I intend to enter into next year), I do NOT want to be known as cleaner of the dirty underwear, toy picker upper, dishwasher empty-er, or shower stall scour-er!

That's all for now folks, good night. I'm off for a little wind down with another passion... a good book, or any book for that matter.

Well, here we are again!

We have settled back into a pseudo-normal routine. Or as normal as a Summer can be.
Caleb's had a dentist appointment, I've worked. Then Caleb is in Swim lessons and in Tennis lessons that mean he stays with Grammy and Papa Dahl for 4 days a week for two weeks. Next week is his second week. He LOVES the tennis, something we were unsure about his interest. But he loves it, and he is doing GREAT in his swim lessons, one of best in the class. He is learning all sorts of movements and skills. And the time with Grammy and Papa is priceless and fun. I asked Caleb what was his most favorite and he said All of it.

So today, Saturday, we are celebrating Joshy's Birthday, since the day is officially Monday. Just a little get together to provide food and photo ops to commemorate the 3 yr rite of passage. Joshy is all excited because it is nice enough weather to set up the bouncy house. I will be taking Joshy in for annual portraits on Monday and then dropping Caleb off in Woodinville afterwards. I am hoping to squeeze in blackberry picking too, last week I was rained out.

We just returned from the Monroe Fair Day's Parade. Fun, but HOT! The kids are stocked up on free candy for the next 6 months. But that's good since I asked Joshy what special thing he would like when he was all the way potty trained and he said CANDY.

Well, it's time to get things moving towards being ready for the party. Talk to you later.

Well, We are back!

We had a good time, but after a day of travel, lots of work upon arrival at home, and a poor night sleep.... I'm TIRED. I'm sure the boys are a little tired too. But the sun is drawing them outside to play. I'm surprised at the humidity here that I didn't experience for the last two weeks.

We did lots of fun things. The kids loved the endless hours of playing at McDonalds play areas (the best indoor, air conditioned park around). We saw Fairytale Town for the first time; the boys loved to climb on everything. We got into a free showing of Alvin and the Chipmunks movie. And another big highlight.... community parks/playgrounds that also have water features. The various sprinklers keep the kids cool and having a great time. We had to keep that sunblock slathered on though. And it did start to get a little hot just watching sometimes (even from the shade.) We shared a few movies with Grandma and Grandpa. The boys played a bunch with the boxes of toys that were brought out.

HUGE NEWS**** From the moment we got off the plane, Joshy started wanting to use the little potty. He was about 85% on average. He had a couple perfect days, and a couple not so great days, but overwhelmingly and quite unexpectedly, Joshy was using the potty LOTS. At least 3 times a day! And he was so excited, he wanted to show me every time (oh, fun). I'm so proud of him. I hope he continues now that we are home. This could actually mean that he is going to go to PRESCHOOL and Cubbies! It happened just overnight basically, and Joshy is looking forward to school too! So I'm crossing my fingers and praying it keeps on.

I'll have pictures posted soon, but I'm so tired right now and it's is a process to get them downloard from the card and then uploaded here. So soon but not now!
Regardless, we are back and safe and just have to recover and clean up the house and get back into a routine.

Welcome back from the weekend!

The kids came back from Grammy and Papa Dahl's house yesterday. They had a really great time. There were lots of stories of parks, bike rides, swimming times. Joshy was willful, big surprise, but had a potty success. Caleb a newbie on the bike improved even more. Joshy is putting his head under water more and more, and Caleb is swimming into the middle of the pool without a problem.

I got some nice things done: a job, scrapbooking, visit with Brit, grocery shopping, laundry, packing, a little sleep, a little reading, a short garage sale (still have lots to get rid of). I tried to use the time to the optimal benefit.

Life is just whirling by. I have 95% of the clothes packed, and now I'm on to toiletries, shoes, and comfort items...dvd, toys etc. I have a few errands to run today and then back into the swing of packing. Tonight the boys and I are going to run out to Grandpa Bill's house for dinner. And if I get back in time to finish 98% of the packing, then I will take the boys to library time tomorrow morning at 10:30am to get a little activity time in before I have to head to the airport via meeting up with Grammy at 12:30 to drive us down to the airport. Busy busy. But it should all work out. I'm a little nervous of having such a late flight, never have done a 3pm flight before, typically I try for a 1 something flight and get the boys to sleep ont he plane.... not this time, so I'm crossing my fingers.

So that's it in a nutshell because I really do have to get going. I'll try to update from California.
Have a great week.

So as for this week....

Caleb is in VBS, held by his preschool's church, and he is loving every minute. It could be because Hayden and Hunter are there, buddies from his preschool this last year.

We had a playdate on Monday with Hayden and Hunter. It was the sunniest 2.5 hours of the week, until today. And the boys had such a great time. Rather than go to the usual park, which is busy and spread out... we went to a school's playground and it was way easier to keep track of our boys, and it was new and unexplored territory.

Probably the best thing that came of that playdate, a two-wheel bike riding training method. It was from Christina (the twins' mom) and she got it from her friend. Bike seat all the way down, helmet on, find a grassy slope (not hill, although we found a place with variety), and tell the child it takes 100 falls to learn but it doesn't hurt because it's on grass. Ok, so Tuesday, we took Caleb out. Caleb was very apprehensive, having fallen and had only meager success in the past. Once we finally got him on the bike and to try it 3 times, he was not afraid to keep trying. Then he progressed to going 20 feet just using his feet to balance and catch himself, then he started putting his feet on the pedals and later actually pedaling. Then he was going 30-40 feet out on the grass and it was suddenly time to move him to pavement (a paved track, not sidewalk with seams). He rode on pavement at varying lengths, but at least over 50-60 feet!
******CALEB RIDES A TWO WHEELER NOW!!!!!!!!!!!**********
He went out today and did even greater distances and is getting better at using his brakes before he bumps into something to stop. He's having fun, and he has confidence and is enjoying success. I had to go back to Christina and say thank you for the method because in 45 minutes Caleb because a bike rider!

Joshy is having spotting potty success, but still some. I'm hoping to work on it more, but with the washer broken, I can't afford the space (or smell) of "wet" clothes everywhere. And unfortunately, naked is still his best outfit for potty success. At least it's not snowing out.

It looks like there is a prospective chance that the boys will be with Grammy and Papa Dahl this weekend for a little time before we are away in California next week. I intend to wash up a storm with the interim wash machine Mike is aiming to bring home, maybe scrapbook for Joshy's annual birthday project, sleep is always good. But it is really tempting to have a garage sale to GET RID OF UNNEEDED STUFF, which just takes up needed space and hangs around like an albatross. Regardless, I know the hours will be filled with tasks for purpose or pleasure.

So that's it for this week. More as it comes.

In the good news: The kidney stone has passed! How does it look? Not so friendly? Thank God that's over. It will take a couple days to get to feeling normal and healed up, but the hard part is over.

Today was Caleb's buddy, Alan's, birthday party. Caleb had been asking to see his buddies from school and finally we had an opportunity. He played and ran around with Alan for 5 hours today, a long party. In fact, I had to run home and get Joshy and come back. Daddy went fishing. But we are home now and resting for the rest of the night.

Tomorrow, Caleb starts another week of VBS. Hopefully he will see his buddies Hayden and Hunter, and maybe we'll even get a play date going.

Tuesday, I am going to take Joshy to a library time for babies-2 years. I know he'll love it, and with just the two of us there won't be any distraction or competition between the siblings.

So that's the news for now. Have a great week.

Happy Thursday.

Caleb went to his VBS today. He said his verse and jumped right in to participating. It has been interesting to see how he's bloomed each day. Monday he walked in and had to hold my hand and cling to me and hide behind my leg and crouch and cower. The next day he held my hand and quiet, but not cowering. Yesterday he ran in and accepted his VBS Tshirt and name badge with gladness only getting shy while saying his verse. Today, he rushed in excitedly well before I could catch up. Got to where his group meets, did a little jump twirl and hopped as I put his shirt on him and again only getting shy during verse recitation. I've love seeing him adapt. It gives me confidence in his adaptability and that he will handle the newness of kindergarten just fine.

During VBS, Mommy went to work. It's a time consuming and physical assignment, but one that I'm actually beginning to enjoy.

Daddy picked Caleb up from VBS and then took Joshy and Caleb fishing. I guess it is not the easiest thing to take two little guys (one of them just past a toddler phase) fishing. They got the lines tangled, and a little bored. Threw rocks and scared the fish, etc.

While they fished, I went to the Dr., a urologist this time. Blessedly, this time this Dr knew what he was talking about. He was thorough, logically, factual, and dealt with statistics. He confirmed that I have a left side ureter stone (hence the pain!), he noticed a left side stone IN the kidney (very small, most likely next year's stone problem), and he determined that there are NO right side stones. He discussed treatment options. For the moment, he's recommended waiting for it to pass. He's put me back on Flomax, which has shown to increase stone passage by 66%, he's put me on two different pain meds, one of which was a easing effect on the bladder (which will help the desperate problem with urgency/pain), and he's ok'd my continued use of Pyridine. From here on I'm to grit my teeth and bear it, and strain RELIGIOUSLY (to prevent an unnecessary/unwanted CT in the future). When the pain goes away it should mean the stone has passed, and straining should mean I have the stone in hand... if not then the stone hasn't passed and ignoring it all could cause major problems with the kidney (i.e. losing it.) BUT, if I don't strain it would mean having to have another CT to confirm it is gone. So a straining I must do with absolute 100% consistency. Also, I must watch for fever over 101.5... an indicator of distressed kidney, compications, infection etc, because it could mean life or death, per the doctor, and I must call regardless of time of day and get help. I go back next Friday for a check up, and I hope to pronounce good "passing" news so that I can go on vacation with a clean bill. Most likely after the vacation, if I haven't passed it, we will have to discuss the alternatives to just waiting, which basically there is only one choice... actual going in and retrieving it. (Lithotripsy is NOT an option, my stone does not show up on a regular x-ray, which is a requirement for the lithotripsy procedure. ) So that's the scoop. Wait and good luck.

Mike's still not feeling good, dizzy and chest pains etc. So I think we are going to lay low this weekend. How I feel is so unpredictable and he's feel strained so it's time for a recoup all around I think.
Caleb has his last VBS day (at Cascade Community) tomorrow. And I work. Then Sunday, Caleb's buddy Alan has his birthday party at Noon. This is enough as far as plans go, dontcha think?!

Keep your fingers crossed, Joshy has morning potty success, but it went down hill from there with all the running around and being away from the house. I guess taking it easy this weekend (and having a largely naked summer) will be a benefit to Joshy too.

Ok, that's it for now. Have a great weekend. I might be able to update with a few pictures. Joshy insists on dressing up as Buzz Lightyear at least twice a day.. and then runs around yelling "to finity" (aka "to infinity and beyond.") I have a couple buzz pictures of Joshy worth posting.

*****Updated to add, Joshy's added a fourth #2 success to today's count!*******


Jockey has had THREE successful Potty's today!!!! I'm so excited! I keep telling him how happy I am for him, because I know how much fun he will have at preschool and cubbies!


Caleb went to his third day of VBS. As we parked he said, "I like this place". And I am so happy because he was really not sure about being around all the new, Big kids. But it is working out great. And I peeked in on him again today and he was doing exactly what he should be doing. I really hope that perhaps being with the big kids, it has shown him the "big kid" way of paying attention and acting in a group.

Daddy came home early from work not feeling well.

I got grocery shopping done and did very well at that. Pain meds are making life bearable. I work tomorrow and then I go to the doctor and hopefully we'll get to the bottom of all this.

I know you don't tune in to read about poop here all the time. BUT....

The first voluntary, in the potty, successful one (by Joshy) should be mentioned! He did it! We've had a couple #1 successes this week, and today the huge news is a #2! He is doing great. I think he's seen the light and understands that this is a great thing that comes with rewards and school and Cubbies in the fall. It's something that makes everyone around him happy and he isn't losing any control over self in his life. Wha-hoooo!!!

Caleb has gone to his second VBS day. He's really liking it. I was a little worried. They were all full in the preschool and kindergarten groups, so they called up and offered to put Caleb into the elementary group... which is mixed with any grade from grades 1-6. He was really nervous to be around BIG kids, and all of them were new. However, there was one little girl in his group that he's had in Cubbies and attended his preschool (although not HIS class), and therefore he recognized. He did really good the first day; I peeked in on the last 6 minutes of yesterday and he was sitting with all the group, he was raising his had to speak, he was not making loud noises, pawing at his neighbor or running around like a wiggly banshee. As of today, they now have 2 verses to memorize for a prize at the end of the week. They were given T-shirts to wear, and a special nametage and looks "lab-esque" because it's a science/lab/ "God's Power Lab" theme. Caleb is part of the "Orange Fizz" group. They are doing some really cool interesting science-y stuff with the lessons and the "teachers" wear lab coats and silly neon green safety goggles. Yesterday, they were looking at those electrical current spheres and getting to put there hands on them and turn out the lights. Today they made a craft with two little plastic guys inside a water bottle... did you know that if you squeeze it hard enough, the guy that likes to float will sink to see the other guy that sinks? Very interesting.

Yesterday, Daddy came home and after dinner we all went fishing. I went, intending to distract Joshy with the park and feeding the ducks, but he really really wanted to hold Daddy's pole and reel and participate. The only thing he liked to do that is bad is toss rocks into the water and scare the fish. But he did sit for a remarkably long period of time for a 2 year old (that isn't to say a long time at all, just long for a crazy busy 2 yr old boy.) Caleb needed help casting, and from there on out he thought the whole point was to reel in after that. Thus, no fish due to no patience. But I had to explain to Caleb that he needs to know he is lucky that he can just go fishing anytime, some boys don't ever get the chance. He says "yeah, I know".

Today after I picked Caleb up at the VBS, we stopped at the park. I figured it was a good place to work out the wiggles. They had fun. Joshy is really getting the hang of the merry-go round. It is a scary ride for one so little (from a parent's standpoint), but he wants to participate so much, I've had to drill him on sitting down and hanging on and only pushing when no one else is. But then the attention span ends and he runs off to do something else, which lead me to catch myself yelling at him "Watch out for the swingers". He was running too close to the swings while others were on them. But in this day and age, that sentence now is a double entundra that I found myself yelling a couple times.

Well, it's off to enjoy the sun and tiny pool in the backyard... or the new to us AC in the TV room. That thing has already paid for itself in quality of life. I just don't handle the heat well, and now I can watch the kids play in the backyard from the comfort of an air conditioned room. Ahhhhh.
Ok, have a beautiful rest of the day.

Just a mellow Saturday.

The sun was beautiful today. The kids played outside. And the warmth was a perfect excuse for popsicles. The pool was filled and jumped in, the hose was a source of fun and frustration. The swingset is the priceless structure for "spiderman". Caleb insisted that we call him Spiderman today when we was dressed in the spiderman costume. And since Caleb was in a costume, Joshy (aka. Parrot) also needed a costume. The Buzz Lightyear costume did very well for him. I took a picture of Buzz and Spidey climbing on the swingset today. Joshy is getting really good.... and Caleb even better (he can reach the top and almost *yikes* get on top of it).

Of course there were moments of owies. Caleb made me laugh out loud when he ran the house yelling "man down" repeatedly. He had to stop and say in an exasperated tone "mommy, (huff) that mean Jockey's hurt." (I didn't hear tears or crying so I knew Caleb was being more dramatic than the situation warranted, thus I could allow laughter rather than prompt serious response.)

With all the sunshine, it is really hard to keep clothes on Jockey. Don't get me wrong, I do put them on him, but he is an expert at undressing. Well, I figured that means that we'll have to try hard to potty train him if he isn't wearing clothes. So the little potty is now outside on the patio, because I caught little screwball using the great outdoors. I figured closer is better. Well, the kids always seem one step ahead of me... Joshy came inside a while later and peed onto the backboard of the basketball hoop (it was laying on floor). I caught myself yelling "Go to your room, if you're not going to use the potty then I only want pee on your floor." (Yes, I'm on "happy pills".)

Our "new" (new to us) air conditioner is the laundry room with a fan blowing the cold air into our TV room is amazing. Such a blessing. I got the AC unit off of craigslist for $60 (they bought it new for $170). It is great and the family room is now an oasis that the dogs, kids, and adults can enjoy together. In fact, I'm using the lap top to type right now from this very oasis.

Mike is going to go fishing tonight. The kids and I are staying here. Auntie Brittany might be coming by with Emily later.

Also, I should mention. The kids are really into non-fiction books from the library. It started with a book Daddy grabbed with Caleb while we were all there just picking up other stuff. Then it expanded when Caleb came into our room one night and was "scared" and he had several questions about spiders. So I told him that we would get a book and find out the information that he wanted to know. Which we did. Now we are getting all sorts of books, non-fiction, and mostly about animals. Caleb has really surprised me with his listening skills. Normally, he would look at a couple pages and wander off. But he is really paying attention. He really is learning and asking questions and forming understanding and opinions. I haven't found the books about bats, giraffe and hippos, but I will. Joshy is really trying too. He has always had a greater attention span, but now he is asking questions too. I'm really quite happy with this developement in their lives, which I'm turning into a nightly routine.

Well, that's it for now. I have to go and eat something before my tummy is too empty and the pills on and empty tummy make me sick.

More later. as things come up.

How is the summer going for you?! Isn't the weather beautiful!

Our strawberries our so plentiful we can barely keep up eating what is produced. There were even a few days that I felt so awful, I didn't get out to pick the ripe ones... those are now fertilizer. The boys go out more than daily and hunt for berries. And our raspberries, despite looking all but dead and brown, the boys still find about 4 a day. Strange.

The kids enjoyed another day at the pool yesterday. They are developing both a tan and great swimming skills.

Caleb spent Tuesday with Grammy Dahl, which was great because he then also got to see Tessa. He was very excited, though from what I'm told, he wanted to play with her way more than she did with him. I wonder if that has anything to do with the early morning arrival and early wake up call he gave her. I'm sure if he was asked he would say that he was too excited to wait to play with her. He is just so excited to be around kids right now.

Monday, I worked and then stopped at the park with the kids. They ran around and played really well for over an hour before it was finally lunch time. I might have to take them this even to get some wiggles out again. Depends on how I feel.

Yesterday, I went to the doctor who spontaneously ordered another X-ray and CT.... I'm still waiting on the results. But I'm on a new medication for the bladder (stop spasms)... one word of advice that wasn't on the instructions... "EAT WITH FOOD". I was sick as a dog because I took in on an empty stomach, ruined the rest of the day. The kids are astonishing me with their compassion at one moment, and then they are jumping on me and begging to have their way the next. I know it's hard to stay focused on others for them being so little; it's nice to see at least a fleeting glimpse of concern in them, even in little 2 yr old Joshy.

Joshy is cracking me up lately. It is so strange to hear a little two year old say "awesome" when he thinks something is really neat or finally understands something. Like when I read them the books on spiders (we are working through their fears with knowledge) and when he heard some of the interesting facts he said "awesome" with a truly genuine awed tone in the whispered word. It is just priceless. I wish I could audio record as much as I have photographically recorded. I'm also thinking that I need to do another hand mold of the boys. The last one I did was before Jockey turned one, now he is nearly 3... and as my mom said, their hands are only going to be small for a little while longer and right NOW! As luck would have it, I think that Ben Franklin might have molds, and perhaps they will be discounted and at the "Sidewalk sale"... crossing my fingers on that!

The boys got renewed "Summer" haircuts Tuesday. They are both really excited to get haircuts for some reason. I guess it is the showers that inevitably follow. But this time they both sat still, and I can hold my head up proudly that they don't have blatantly obvious bad/mistake cuts anywhere.

Well, that's about all for now. I have 3 jobs to do before I even accomplish anything on the "want-to-do" list. So I better get to it.

How's your weekend so far?

Joshy has used the potty... TWICE! We are so very excited. He's also getting rewards, which I feel guilty about but they are working. He is starting to see the positive side of this success on this issue, before he just saw that by refusing he was getting his own way. Caleb was also so excited he prayed about it. The prayer went something like this: "Dear Jesus, Joshy went pee in the potty, we are very excited. He did it for you Jesus, help him do it again. Amen." I wanted to encourage Caleb praying and Joshy using the potty so much that I help in the burst of laughter.

I have some very tan little boys (well relatively speaking, that are still my children). They went to the pool again on the 4th with Daddy. Daddy needed to work a bit on the pool chemicals etc so the boys tagged along since I was still not feeling great. They had a wonderful time. Caleb can now swim the length of the indoor pool and is starting to learn side breathing. Joshy is now wearing goggles and diving down around the stairs for pennies! It's amazing. (Joshy uses the words "Amazing" or "Awesome", it is very funny to hear such a little guy use such expressive words.)

As for our 4th. We sat on the curb in our neighborhood and saw the delightful display of the various neighbors as they set their $ to flame. Then we climbed onto Caleb's bed and watched the big display that the fairgrounds puts on. It was a simple affair, but calm, free and just my speed for the moment.

I'm still not feeling good. I am despising the contra-indicating bladder. It goes something like this: use restroom, then feel like you are desperate to use the restroom for 30-45 minutes while your bladder fills again, be ok for up to 2 hours, then really have to go, hold it until it can't be held anymore in fear of the pain/urgency you'll feel after you actually go, actually use restroom and repeat the process. And then there is the spasms of pain otherwise that feels like my back/abdomen are being electrocuted. FUN. And no, I haven't caught another stone yet.

So today is going to be another easy going day for me. My big aspirations: shower, and MAYBE get to the Ben Franklin Sidewalk Sale. (I do have Joshy and his annual b-day scrapbooking project just around the corner.)

In better news, we returned from vacation to roses in bloom and strawberries plentiful. We are getting over a dozen a day with many more ripening. I've had to drill into the boys "RED means READY, Green means let GROW". The raspberries are a dismal sight. I don't know if they got too hot (I suspect because of the suddenly withered brown/yellow leaves) or whether I pruned them back too much this spring. But they are miserable and probably won't produce this year... It makes me sad for the boys, it brings such joy to them... but there are still the strawberries. And IF (big if) I can keep the boys and dogs out of the strawberry patch, we might see up to 2 dozen blueberries.... I also look forward to the blackberries at the club coming into season, and I'm sincerely hoping that they will be ripe before or still be available for picking when I return from California. Our winter won't be the same without frozen berries all year!

Ok, that's all for now. Talk to ya later.

Pictures from our day in Missoula. We visited the Farmer's Market. Rode the Carousel, played at Dragon Hollow, and then went to the playground that features a water park. And the Elk Foundation.

The Elk Foundation:

Moses Lake (Joshy was loving the mini-slides. He couldn't run up to the top fast enough for another ride.)

So that was the trip. I might find some really great shots of the kids, but these pictures are the "tour" of our trip.

In other news, life is setting in a bit. Sort of. We have registered Caleb for VBS at Cascade Community church. We are going to get him registered for another at the Little Doves church.

I have booked a trip down to California, leaving the 29th of July and returning on August 12th.

Caleb has dentist appointments booked for August. Grammy has gotten Caleb in Swim lessons scheduled for the end of August. The boys have spent some wonderful time with Grammy and Papa Dahl this week. They have loved seeing everyone at the pool, including Gavin, Garret, Brady and Jen. It was a huge help to me for the boys to spend the time with Grammy while I worked to pass kidney stones. I'm still working on the stones and I don't know where the light is at the end of the tunnel, but I appreciate all the help they've provided.

So the is a big holiday weekend. We don't know what we are going to do, probably just take it easy. Maybe watch the fireworks from the front windows of our house.

Hope you all have a great weekend. And I'll keep up the posting too.