Daybook~Mother Mary

For Today...February 13, 2011

Outside my window...the weather is beautiful. It was so nice today. This afternoon we played outside just because we could. Finally.

I am wearing...black yoga pants and a shirt I plan to donate really soon. It's featured in the pictures below and I had no idea how unflattering it really is! Also, my Grinch slippers. I think these slippers reflect my mood this past week. Hopefully, my heart will change like the Grinch's did soon.

I am listening to...Cracker.

I am praying...a million Hail Marys. This week has been the hardest as far as parenting goes in a while. I am so tired of saying "tomorrow is another day." I just want today to be the day that I'm a great parent.

I'm also praying...for Squirt's surgery tomorrow. It will hopefully be quick and with an easy recovery, esp since he has work to finish tomorrow night.

I am pondering...the idea of joy and how it relates to my life. I think I have it figured out and how to keep it coming.

From the kitchen...tomorrow we'll have filet and fingerling potatoes with fresh green beans. The rest of the week will be healthy so I can reach my goal. We have a wedding, the Old 97's, (hopefully) a listener event, and Paul and Brian within the next month. So a healthy diet is in order.

To be fit and happy...OMG. While I was gone they changed the spin class and now we watch our RPM's and stuff and I'm ready to DIE. It is killing me and older women are flying and I'm ready to leave the class. I swear, spin was easier 9 months pregnant!! I am hoping spin shoes will make me ride faster, but that is probably wishful thinking! Regardless, I love being back at the gym.

I am reading...Small Steps for Catholic Moms. It's perfect for me as the steps I take as a mom are so very small these days. I finished The Hunger Games series. LOVED IT. Shea, you need to read this now and give it to Will in a year or so.

From the learning rooms...we are SLOWING down quite a bit. The Baby Hulk and I are having some problems lately. I have found that as I've backed off, I catch him reading on his own. We're on N week, for the second week in a row, and talking Nutrition. Very, very limited work.

One of my favorite things...reading with Goose. I can't explain how much I love this. Just sitting on the couch together and reading whatever is around the house.



I am hoping...that this week is a good one. I need a good week, for confidence, to know that I really am a good parent.

I am thankful...Marivi is back home! She's been on vacation for a week, out of the country and we haven't talked at all.

A few plans for the week...celebrate Valentine's Day, swim lessons, a visit to Forbidden Gardens, relax and watch some documentaries with my hubby!

A picture thought or two...



Baby Z is starting to smile! I commented how she doesn't spit up at all, and then today she had reflux and the cute picture of her smiling shows a big wet spot. Nice. But she was smiling so I had to post it. I posted the second picture so Chelsea and Stacy could see how awesome her dress really is since the first shot didn't show that. And lastly, there she is looking at daddy!

Daybook~One Month

For Today...January 17, 2o11

Outside my window...it's dreary outside. Still wet from yesterday's rain. At times, I hate being stuck inside, but not today with my kids home.

I am wearing...black yoga pants and a black workout shirt. My workout clothes make me feel smaller than baggy clothes and at the same time remind me why the Baby Hulk keeps asking if I am still pregnant. I am also wearing Snoopy slippers and my L necklace. L is for Lance, I should have worn this last week!

I am listening...to Goose and the Baby Hulk work. It's school time, and my students are really goofing around.

I am praying...for my friend that has surgery tomorrow. Please join in with me.

I am hoping...that Lance and I are able to see a couple of movies this week. We have The King's Speech, Blue Valentine, Another Year and then I will (hopefully) have seen everyone that will be nominated for the major categories this year. Then I promise I will start watching the documentaries I am soooo very far behind on.

I am pondering...the idea of an Oscar party with some of Lance's listeners.

From the kitchen...Yikes, no menu planned yet. I have a feeling we won't have anything super great this week, which stinks, but I need to start eating better and Lance wants to eat better, so it's okay if we have grilled chicken this week. Although really, I would rather have a bowl of cereal every night than grilled chicken.

From the learning rooms...M is for Martin Luther King Jr., Maps, Monuments, Magnets, and Monopoly. We're slowing down a bit on reading as I pursue a phonics program. The Baby Hulk is actually a great reader, but as the books get harder, he forgets some of the easy short vowel words. So after going over our budget, I think I am going to sign up for Explode the Code, something I never did with Goose because I didn't know any better.

I am reading...finally! The Hunger Games. Squirt got this series for Christmas and has not put the books down at all. He gave me the first one to read and was on my case all last week. I read it over the weekend and it was awesome! Now he needs to read faster so I can read the next one!

To live the liturgy...we're back to Ordinary time in the Church. We're also celebrating a name day this week! As well as the feast of St. Agnes.

One of my favorite people...Jessica. Here she is posing for pictures before Senior Girls. Isn't she just beautiful?!

Another...favorite...Big Love. I am so flipping bummed that this is the show's final season. I LOVE all the sister wives. And while I generally relate to Barb in her no-nonsense organizing way, I also a huge fan of Nikki, and totally related to her bullying the kid that picked on her kid. Because let's be clear, anyone who messed with my kid would get the same treatment.

A few plans for the week...swim lessons, haircuts for the boys, birthdays, movies, a nice dinner

A picture thought or two...



I am so not a fashion person, but I love dressing this little girl even though we are home quite a bit. I never seem to catch good shots of Baby Z. To be honest, she is cutest when sleeping right now, but she only sleeps in our arms which prevents a lot of pictures.

The big yawn...proof that she doesn't always scream.

Daybook~Winter

For Today...January 10, 2011

Outside my window...it's cold again. You can look outside and sense the dreariness. I actually love this weather. The only problem when it gets this cold is bringing in all the potted plants. Thankfully, I can still say I'm not supposed to lift anything heavy. Have fun boys! Speaking of boys, I swear, Squirt tried to wear shorts to school today.

I am wearing...blue sweats and a longhorn fleece.

I am listening to...the boys sing. Love their voices!

I am grateful...that I met my husband and had our first date on 1/9, for No David's mischievous smile, coffee and DVD's.

The most romantic thing I did...was yesterday, and it might not seem romantic to most. Lance and I saw two movies on our first date. These days, despite my love for movies, I rarely watch movies with Lance. Last night, we sat together and did nothing but watch an Oscar contender together. We used to recreate our first date, but this year we can't do that so this was just as nice.

I am thinking...about this quote: "It is above all in the home that, before ever a word is spoken, children should experience God's love in the love which surrounds them." I need to find ways to give God's love to my family each day. Period.

From the learning rooms...we're onto L week...the Lonestar State, Ladybugs, long vowels and patterns. And patience.

Around the house...no projects for now. Soon though we'll be trying to figure out the rooms again. Who sleeps where and so on.

From the kitchen...menu planned again. I like what I have planned, but now I think I need to add a soup since it's so cold outside. The Baby Hulk wants hotdogs and a picnic. That doesn't sound like a bad idea to me.

Towards Rhythm and beauty...so I had a bad day and a half, but I feel much better. We're settling into somewhat of a routine around here. Of course, that changes once we get back to the gym, but for now, we enjoy dropping the kids off at school, then snacking, then school.

No David...I must starve this kid. Yesterday he was being super cute hiding in the pantry, only I finally realized that he was eating the entire time he was being cute. There were crumbs everywhere. Friday night we caught him doing something very similar.

Happy to report...that I have seen three movies and started another. At the rate I will have seen all the Oscar hopefuls by the end of the month. YAY! Need to see True Grit, 127 Hours, The King's Speech. I am super behind on docs, but if I can at least finish the main categories soon, I will be happy.

Sad...that Chelsea left for school today. She isn't coming home for Spring break, so we won't see her until May. I think all the boys around here are going to miss her.

A few plans for the week...swim lessons, movies, napping?

One of my favorite things...my new Gucci purse! Super excited about it except for the fact that one side kind of droops. SO I am taking it back this afternoon to exchange it. They are going to think I am crazy because it is barely noticeable, but I notice and it is killing me.

And no pictures for the week...how sad, I have this beautiful family, but I don't have time to load pictures.

Daybook~Hello 2011

For Today...January 2, 2011

Outside my window...it's dark and chilly outside. I love this weather, although it's a bit harder to enjoy with a two week old! I worry about it being too cold for her.

I am wearing...black pants and a black shirt. I can't wait until I fit into my clothes. I am not a fashionista, but I am over wearing maternity clothes!

I am grateful for...these past two weeks. Thank goodness Baby Z arrived when the kids were out of school and they could spend some time with her! We have had the best Christmas break. The boys are in love with their new sister and have alternated between singing to her and running outside to play football.

Also grateful...that I have such an easy time after my c-sections. I have been fine since leaving the hospital less than 48 hours after surgery and am ready (I think) to get five kids up and out of the house on Tuesday. But let's say a prayer just in case I'm not ready...

I am listening to...Liz Phair.

I am thinking...we are so not the Holy Family. A resolution of sorts is to become a better family from the top down to the bottom.

Speaking of resolutions...I resolve to start watching Breaking Bad. Lance loves this show, and I have only watched two episodes. I promise to watch if only to know why Jon Hamm keeps losing the Emmy to the guy on the show. I also resolve to go see a movie with Lance at least once a month! And then there is that patience thing...I'll work on that too.

On keeping home...All of the decorations are packed away. I never take down decorations before the Epiphany, which is January 6th. I figured since the Church celebrated the feast today, I could too. So everything is packed away and in the attic. I am so glad that I didn't unpack all my stuff this year. It was much easier to put away. As it was, I still had several tubs of decorations. Now comes the deep clean again. I keep telling Lance he doesn't realize how lucky he is that his wife is so neat and clean. And that I heal from my sections so well...because let's be real, I am the one who has kept this house clean despite being told to take it easy for the past two weeks.

Towards Rhythm and Beauty...is there a real rhythm in the house when you have a newborn? I guess next week, we'll start with a schedule because kids have to be at school, but other than that we're at the mercy of the baby as it should be for now. The beauty is staring at me every time I hold her. I am so thankful for this baby!

I am creating...plans for Baby Hulk and No David. We'll take it easy this week, but then we'll be back in business the following week. In looking over my blog from last winter, we really had a great time celebrating the saints and I hope to make some plans for that as well.

From the kitchen...menu planned and back to a regular diet. We finally went to the grocery store after not going for two weeks. I have no idea how we lasted that long.

One of my favorite things...Castle. My mom bought me the first season on DVD, and I have been able to catch up on everything I have missed. Normally, I wouldn't like a show like this, but I love it. Both Lance and I find ourselves laughing out loud.

The most romantic thing I did recently...danced with Lance to our wedding song. I was listening to Lenny Kravitz earlier and our wedding song, Heaven Help, came on and we both had the same idea!

A few plans for the week...show off the baby to the ladies at the gym. (No I'm not working out, just going to show her to the caregivers.) playdate, back to swim lessons, clean and enjoy my kids.

A picture thought I am sharing...


This is the picture I used for her announcement, which has yet to arrive. I am totally annoyed because I did the combo Christmas card/birth announcement and now it will arrive possibly on the 5th, one day before Christmas ends.

Daybook~ Countdown

For Today...December 12, 2010

Outside my window...It's cold again. Really cold. So cold that Lance had to put the plants in the garage. At one point, I swear, he said, "get out here and help." I totally pulled the pregnancy card on that one. Plus, he didn't want to hear, again, how I had been on my hands and knees cleaning all week.

I am wearing...a pink shirt and blue sweats. And Snoopy slippers.

I am listening to...the Connells.

17 hours...is how long it took before Lance gave me my Christmas gift. He was sleeping for 7 of those hours.

Around the house...we've had quite the week. Travertine in foyer replaced, looks so awesome. Major cleaning due to all the dust from the initial travertine being ripped out. Shelves up and mostly filled!!! So happy about that. And decorations done except the tree. In my opinion, the house looks nearly perfect. Now for the blinds and dustboards...

For the baby...bassinet up, Thanks Emily! Car seat here, bought a new cover, baby clothes stored in third drawer and bag packed for hospital. Now I just need to find a diaper bag! And maybe buy a package of newborn diapers!

The Baby Hulk...is SO. EMOTIONAL. Everything is either great or terrible. And he fusses like no other. But he is so sweet. Today he saw the bassinet in my room and wanted to know why it wasn't in their room. Goose just said, "what if she wakes us up". I can always count on Goose to see the whole picture. I love how sweet BH is and pray he always stays this way and that some of it rubs off on Goose.

No David...is really turning out pretty cute. Maybe he senses there is competition coming. He is talking so much lately, and we seem to think he's so funny. Tonight, I caught him twirling one of my nativity ornaments. When I told him to stop, he screamed NO.

Goose...blew me a kiss after I dropped him off at school on Friday morning. At times, he is slightly cold, (a nice way of putting it) and I loved this gesture from him.

Squirt...remembered being the first to walk in the room after Goose was born. He and the boys will be the first to see this baby too.

Christmas prep...Didn't get very far this week. I still have the same two gifts to purchase. The goal is to wrap everything I have by Thursday and store Santa gifts in the attic. I need to finish baking and make sure Lance orders my tenderloin for Christmas day. I have a simple and delicious menu planned.

From the kitchen...menu planned, simple all week long. I'm more interested in the sweets anyway.

On living the liturgy...we had a great week. Technically we're not doing a Jesse Tree (b/c quite honestly, I didn't really know much about it), but we are completing a coloring sheet each day and reading the relevant scripture. Next year, I have big plans for the Jesse Tree. We celebrated the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe as well as the Immaculate Conception this week. We even met for Super Saints which made me and the boys so happy. All of our Advent books and Christmas books are out right now, so my guess is that our days will be filled sitting on the couch reading books.

To be fit and happy...last Friday I actually left spin early. I just couldn't get comfortable, and I just decided it didn't matter if I left early. I am hoping to make it to two classes this week only b/c I will miss class for six weeks after the birth and I really love this class.

One of my favorite things...nativity scenes. I have so many beautiful nativity scenes, but this year I didn't unpack much. I know I won't be in the mood to pack them all away, and the reality is that I don't trust anyone else to pack them for me. Since I don't really have room for big nativity sets any longer, I also have a tree devoted to nativity ornaments. Here are my new purchases this year!

I am praying for...the baby and delivery. At my appointment on Friday, I had to have the serious talk with my doctor...problems that could occur and what she would do if anything happened. Then there was the lady from the swim club who talked about getting an infection during delivery. I know it's my doctor's job to inform me, but the other lady...Anyway, I am excited about this baby and feel confident everything will go well, but any prayers would be appreciated.

I am grateful for...my husband who finds me sexy despite being super pregnant.

A few plans for the week...besides have a baby??? Workout, day with Lance, clean, swim lessons, bake, wrap gifts, find a name(!), take it easy...

A picture thought I am sharing...

No David was so sweet this week. After Lance set up the lights, he ran inside and grabbed Snoopy. He then took him outside to show him the lights.

Daybook~ Making a List and Checking it Twice

For Today...December 5, 2010

Outside my window...lights are on up and down the street. Despite having to run A LOT of errands today, Lance managed to finish most of the lights today. I did gently remind him that he didn't want to be "that guy" and not have any lights. Last year we didn't decorate the house until the middle of Advent, and I really loved it. There isn't really a right time to decorate, but for me waiting allows us to PREPARE and ANTICIPATE Christmas for all it's glory and wonder. And this year, we have even more to be excited about! We'll decorate next weekend...Can't wait until longer because we'll have the baby. But for now, I'll enjoy our lights and those around us that remind us of this joyful season.

I am listening to...the Old 97's. What can I say?! Actually, I'm hoping this will be a little reminder of an easy stocking stuffer from my hubby. Concert tickets, please!

I am wearing...my pj's.

I am almost done...with my shopping, only two more gifts to purchase. And it would seem that both my parents are pretty much done with my family too. Except me. What is wrong with that picture??? Actually, I don't really have a list going except things like "spin shoes" or a MAC laptop.

I'm ready for this baby...WRONG. For the past two weeks, I have felt really pregnant and am so tired. BUT, I have a huge list of things to do. I need the car seat, car seat cover, new diaper bag, where are her clothes going and so on. I have a list. Not too big, but a list nonetheless. Plus, I just got a GC in the mail from a couple to purchase a new bassinet. I feel like a total heel b/c I kept saying how that was the one thing I needed. I hope I wasn't too pushy. Esp since my mom has been saying she wants to buy it, and I have refused to allow her to do so hoping to find one to borrow instead.

Around the house...buying my shelves tomorrow. AND...major nesting: getting the tile in the foyer fixed this Wednesday (I hope). THEN...I am hiring a babysitter to come hang with the kids while I clean the house from the blinds and window sills to the dust boards and floors. Then the decorations will come down.

From the learning rooms...it's all about Advent, then Christmas until after the New Year. We'll throw in some math in the form of baking and such, but overall we'll be taking it easy. It's hard because the Baby Hulk was upset today when he realized he had missed school. We had a great week talking about Instruments which we'll continue as we listen to some Classical Christmas music. We have to make crafts and sweets over the next 9 days because after that we're not doing anything to mess up the house!

On living the liturgy...There are so many things I love about Catholicism, but the liturgical calendar has to be one of my favorites. There are so many days to celebrate. So many lessons to learn. So many reasons to be grateful. This year I made a big list of all the feast days during Advent and continuing through Jan 6. I carefully decided what we wanted to cover so that we wouldn't be overwhelmed and feel like we were checking things off a list. We'll see if my plans work this week when we have three days to celebrate as well as continue with the Jesse Tree and Advent wreath.

From the kitchen...menu planned. Now I need to make the list for the baking. I have narrowed it down to six kinds of cookies this year. Wonder if I will get it all done.

To be fit and happy...my body is really feeling this baby now. I feel the 52 extra pounds I am carrying. EVERYWHERE. I had never had round ligament pain before this pregnancy, and I can't say I like it much. I feel it all the time and at times double over from the pain. That said, I am very happy that I can still workout. I have 5 spin classes left before baby arrives and I plan to be at all of them. Now if I can just have some healthy kids for the next month or so!!!

Please explain...why Ben Folds is a judge on Sing Off. Is anyone who is on this show going to know who he is?

I am praying for...calm during the rest of Advent and this pregnancy.

I am grateful...for my family esp. Lance, my friends. And baby gifts! I have some really generous friends. And I didn't even have a shower for this little girl.

One of my favorite things...Christmas cards. We received our first card yesterday from one of the Boys' friends. Baby Hulk was so excited! Now if only I had a family picture, but I suppose I can use one from the Baptism and stand in the back, right?

A few plans for the week...buy shelves, clean, organize and wash baby clothes, pack hospital bag and finish shopping.

Daybook~ Thanksgiving Week

For Today...November 21, 2010

Outside my window...it's dark and warm again. Why can't the cold weather just stay here?

I am listening to...football. I've been listening to this all day long. You might think I could listen to music while driving in the car, but nope. If football is on, Goose is watching. I love this new side of him.

I am wearing...jeans and a black shirt. And my beautiful heart pendant! I love this gift from my husband.

I am grateful for...a weekend away with my husband and Goose. Lance and I hadn't been to New Orleans since I was pregnant with Goose, seven years ago. We decided to farm out a few kids and take who we thought would be easiest. We had a wonderful time, and so did the other boys. I am grateful to my parents for not only wanting to spend time with my boys, but also taking care of them for the weekend. Tonight when my mom left, two of them were crying.

Goose...was an amazing travel companion. Lance and I love art, we love talking to artists, going to galleries and museums. Goose seems to be picking up on this as well. It's exciting to me for him to be this interested at this age. He has his own opinions about what he likes and why. He couldn't believe all the Saints' paraphernalia throughout the city. When we explained how they won the Superbowl last year, his only comment was "do you think they were happy when they lost to the Cleveland Browns?" This kid is going to get his ass kicked one day because he talks so much crap. He is very aware of how his Longhorns are playing this year, but he is a trooper. Saturday, he made sure to wear his Longhorn shirt and today he wore his Texans shirt.

I am creating...lists. List of gifts for others, list of gifts for my kids, Christmas card list, birth announcement list, grocery list, menus, Christmas baking lists and lastly, my wish list! I am so upset that I have basically nothing so far. I figured we would hammer out things while driving, but got nowhere. So very frustrating. Plus, everyone wants to know what my kids want. Which is nice, but they don't want anything this year. Not kidding! Plus, we're trying to figure out Godparents for new baby. Who knew this could be so hard? Then I suppose I should figure out what I have left to do before baby arrives.

I am praying...for a wonderful holiday season. Things get started this week and it seems we'll be nonstop until after Christmas. Last year, we had a wonderful Advent and Christmas. I am hoping to focus on being grateful this week and then start preparing for Christmas after that.

The highlight of our trip...The swamp tour. There are things I have to do, and a swamp tour was one of them. Goose was super excited, Lance not so much. So we dropped him off at a casino and drove out of town. The tour was fine, but let's be real, we all wanted to see alligators. Nobody really cared about the ecological problems of the swamp, as bad as that sounds. We weren't disappointed. Goose even held a baby alligator. I touched it, but couldn't bring myself to hold it.

Around the house...my walls are painted!!! I love the color and am so happy that my husband forced us to look yet again before the painters arrived. The walls look great and my beautiful Mother's Day painting looks so striking against the new color. NOW...I have to contend with my crappy fireplace again. AND...we need shelves. I thought I had found IKEA ones, but...they are white and my furniture is walnut colored. If they were built in cabinets, I wouldn't mind white, but now I don't want white. This week I am finding something.

From the learning rooms...We finished G week and learned a lot about "being Green" and our Guardian Angels. We have one last little project to complete before moving onto H. This week we are looking at staying Healthy and Holidays. I have a pretty good week planned out. Lance has asked that I go over the previous week so we can discuss progress and potential problems. I kind of like that. I have the next two weeks planned, then we'll take a break and just read and prepare for Christ with all our Advent books. Prepare for Christ and have a baby!

On living the liturgy...prepping for Advent and deciding which Saints we'll discuss this December. Since I just ordered two new books, Saint Nicholas and Saint Lucia, we'll obviously be discussing them.

From the kitchen...healthy food. Eating out nonstop will do that to you. Plus, it's picture time. I don't need to add more pounds to my face. I bet my family thought they would get out of taking a family picture this year since I am a super preg, but nope.

One of my favorite things...my husband. He is just it. Period.

A few plans for the week...spin, walks with the family, Thanksgiving Day with our extended family, baking, shopping, Chelsea (be warned, despite UT's dismal record, I am sure BAM will bring up Bama's two losses) and nesting.

A picture thought I am sharing...

Getting ready for baby...

Daybook~Sick Boys

For Today...November 14, 2010

Outside my window...it's dark, dreary and cold!!! It's about time. Hopefully it will stay this way for the next several months.

I am listening to...my husband and Goose LOSE IT. The Texans just lost. Again. Poor Goose, he is SO into football this year, and both his teams just really suck. On a positive note, it is nice (I think) to see Lance and Goose bond this way. Goose has always been my boy, so I'm not used to the extra attention Lance seems to be getting these days.

I am wearing...black pants, a black shirt and a grey sweater.

Today at the store...a woman came up to me and said she read my blog. She recognized Squirt who was shopping with me. And then...she said I looked tiny. TINY. I was so happy to hear that. Esp since my husband looked at me this morning and said he hoped the baby was petite considering how big my belly is. Now his statement didn't come out as rude as it sounds. And while I am mostly boyish when it comes to things like sports and cussing, I am ALL GIRL when it comes to my weight. So to hear a woman say I looked tiny was a wonderful thing, even if it isn't quite true. So thank you!!! Even better, I only had two kids with me so she didn't catch me snapping at my boys!

I am super excited...about next weekend. Lance and I are going to New Orleans! And of course, the boys are sick. First, it was Goose, now it's the Baby Hulk. Here's hoping No David gets sick tomorrow and not Friday morning. The boys always seem to get sick when we leave town and it's really hard on my parents. And us...do we stay or go. We always go, and I feel guilty the entire time we're gone. We are taking Goose with us (the joy of loving football these days), but Lance isn't really open to having anyone else tag along, esp a sick kid!

I am grateful for...my husband and weekend getaways.

I am praying...my kids get better soon. There is nothing worse than a sick kid. And the Baby Hulk does pathetic REALLY well. Plus, I'd like my bedroom back.

To be fit and happy...Is it bad to want my kids well so I can make it to spin?? Okay, that's not my first reason, but it's a close second. I have less than five weeks to workout before I stop for six weeks. These interruptions are killing me!

From the kitchen...menu planned again. While I hate the fact that the kids are at school, I do love the routine it forces me to take with our meals.

Around the house...the painter arrives tomorrow at 10. Fingers crossed. We have settled on a color, and I can't wait to see how it turns out. Then I get my shelves. Maybe my family room will look the way I want before Thanksgiving!!! Of course, the shelves are from IKEA, so that means we have to put them together. So maybe the week after Thanksgiving...

From the learning rooms...What a week we had on F week. We studied Fire Safety, Football, made Fall leaf pictures, and practiced writing the letter F. (F week happened to line up perfectly with HWT this week.) I have noticed a great improvement in the BH's coloring this week as well. He is reading harder books, much slower, but still with a positive attitude. Basically, he loves his school time and No David is getting much better during learning time as well. We're onto being Green this week. Maybe I'll learn something myself. I'm not the best at recycling.

On living the liturgy...This week we studied St. Martin de Tours, a great saint. We talked about helping those who need it, even just acknowledging the person on the corner with a smile when we have nothing to share in the car. We missed Super Saints because of sick kids, but still did our own work at home.

One of my favorite things...Snoopy. I admit I've been a bit worried that Goose's love for Snoopy would be diminishing as he grows older, esp recently with his love for football. Last night I asked him what he wanted for Christmas, and he said a new bank. A football bank to be precise. A Snoopy football bank, like Snoopy catching the football. This bank does not exist. I spent all night looking for it and all I found was Snoopy sleeping on a football bank. And of course, nobody is selling that bank.

A few plans for the week...getting well, OB appt, trip to NO.

A picture thought from a few weeks ago...

Daybook~ November!

For Today...October 31, 2010

Outside My Window...it's dark, and I think or rather hope that nobody rings my bell again. I understand wanting to get that last bit of candy, but seriously, don't ring my bell after 9 pm. Especially on a school night!

I am listening to...the Get Up Kids.

I am wearing...a blue shirt, denim capris and my new St. Gerard medal.

I am grateful for...a little boy who skips, loves football, Snoopy and reading, a husband who insists on taking me on a date, the reminder of my teen years, an eager reader, a little boy who says "mama" in the sweetest voice ever and a girl who still loves my boys enough to tolerate being thought of as a teen mom.

I am thinking...that life just passes by way too quickly. I can't believe another week has come and gone. I wish I could just stop things for a bit.

I am praying...for friends who have suffered losses, patience, and to win the lottery.

From the kitchen...menu planned again, but somehow we really fell off the wagon once the actual meal was finished. The desserts are starting to kill me and Lance. Why do we love desserts sooo much?!

From the learning rooms...We're onto E week. We're studying electricity, and the Baby Hulk wants to make colored eggs. I have made a schedule for each week this month, and I'm really excited about what we'll be studying to supplement our time together. Dinosaurs were so awesome, esp ending with our field trip and digging for fossils with Dad today. The Baby Hulk is so proud of himself with his reading and this week we start writing a couple of letters outside of his name.

Around the house...don't hold your breath, but I think we have a paint color. At this point, I don't care, I just want the damn thing painted. That and a new garage!

On living the liturgy...Tomorrow is All Saints Day. Goose already completed his project today. We have friends coming over tomorrow to celebrate with the BH and No David. I found the coolest project for the Day of the Dead. I am hoping to make it and then Tuesday, we plan to list all our deceased family members and pray for them as a family. And of course, we have St. Martin de Porres' feast day this week too. LOVE this sweet saint.

One of my favorite things...finding old friends. I finally contacted an old friend, who I went to my very first concert with...I was laughing out loud as I read his email. Of course, all I did as far as catching up was to send him here. Really nice of me!

Texas...how can you let us down like this???? My son faithfully watches football now, and the first thing he asked today was "who won". He doesn't understand what losing to Baylor and Iowa State means, but he will soon.

A few plans for the week...Braces for Squirt!!! Playdates for the BH and some learning with mom.

Picture thoughts...

Goose with his ever faithful companion, also dressed up. Two streets did this to him!

This picture describes this child perfectly!

Daybook~ Really???

For Today...October 25, 2010

Outside my window...it's cloudy. According to the weather calendar the Baby Hulk has been keeping all month, there hasn't been any rain in October. It's supposed to happen this week. (It might have rained over the weekend, while we were gone.)

I am wearing...my workout clothes. After spin we came home and immediately started school. It is so nice when we finish before lunch. And really, there is no reason we shouldn't finish pre-school in less than two hours, including breaks!

I am listening to...small feet running around the house.

I am grateful for...weekends away with my family. I would be miserable without them.

I am thinking...about this quote from mass: Prayer is like love, you can't live without either. So true, but how to keep the prayer going when it seems stale.

Really????Halloween is Sunday and we have one costume, sort of. WHAT IS WRONG WITH US? It's not happening today, so now we have less than a week and nothing.

I am wondering...if some relationships are worth it.

I am praying...for my little baby and that my sinus infection leaves. Having a fever put a definite cramp on my weekend.

From the kitchen...menu planned, trying to eat healthy. Of course, there will be pumpkin bread and banana bread before we even get to the candy.

From the learning rooms...last week was a great week. I am more and more convinced of the BH's brilliance! Most of the time! I'm just so happy that he is excited about reading. He isn't great, doesn't recognize words yet, but he sounds out his little books each day without an attitude. For that I am grateful. I might get this teaching thing down. I am trying to convince myself not to buy a math curriculum, but I so want to for him. I am forcing myself to stop at Costco and buy one of the pre-K books they sell. There is nothing wrong with review, right? We're still on Dinosaurs, and we'll end this week with a field trip to the Museum with Goose joining us. Goose is also "studying" Mozart this week.

Really????While every school in the city was having parent teacher conferences over the last couple of weeks, our teacher decided not to say a thing to any of us about scheduling a conference for Friday, the day that was designated for such conferences at our school. WTF??? You only get a conference if your kid isn't doing well, I guess. I have no idea, going straight to the principal on this one.

Around the house...paint color change again. Maybe one day, I'll have a new living room.

One of my favorite things...vacations: big or small. It doesn't matter. I love getting away. Except for the part where the kids don't fall asleep unless all the lights are off. I suppose at some point we're going to have to actually pay for a suite so we have more privacy than when throw all the kids into the shower.

Really????Texas, you lose to Iowa State, really? I hope all of the players and coaches are embarrassed. Yes, I am that kind of person, I don't feel sorry for them at all.

On living the liturgy...getting ready for the Feast of All Saints. I have a neat idea planned that I hope the boys will enjoy.

A few plans for the week...orthodontist consult today, Halloween crafts, field trip with Goose, find costumes, Mass for pregnant moms

A picture thought I am sharing...

For Today...October 17, 2010

Outside my window...the sun is going down. The boys are getting in their last bit of outdoor play until tomorrow afternoon. They love playing outside until the very last second.

I am wearing...a pink t-shirt, black shorts and flip-flops. The pink t-shirt has food all over it. This always happens when I'm pregnant. I am such a slob.

I am listening to...do I really need to say it? The Old 97's.

I am grateful...for each and every one of my boys. All five of them. They each add something different to my life.

I am praying...for the rest of this pregnancy. It's gone by so fast, I have to look at a calendar when someone asks "how many weeks."

I am realizing...that I LOVE life without the phone. Who would have thought that? I cringe every time the phone rings now, and that happens before I know who is calling. I feel so free from the phone. And emails. I have people asking to send pictures through email and I think, one click and you can see all the pictures you want. The chance of me sending pictures is zero. Which sounds bitchy, but it's really just honest. I hate loading pictures and for whatever reason we have the slowest computer in the world when I am using it.

From the kitchen...a great menu planned for the week. We just finished C week, so we had cookies and carrots!

On keeping home...the purge continues, this week it was serving dishes and cookbooks. We have to clean out our garage this week, which means more to throw away. I love this feeling. I talked to someone who just moved from DC and she said she loved being a small space because you didn't have a bunch of crap. You learn to live with what you need. I think I could handle a big city like that.

From the learning rooms...I LOVE Handwriting Without Tears. The more I delve into this program, the madder I get at our school system for not adopting some kind of handwriting curriculum. It is amazing how kids are not taught anything about writing anymore. The Baby Hulk is loving his wooden letters and only writes his name four times a day. We are not moving to writing for a bit. We start D week as far as science goes which means one thing: Dinosaurs! I am pretty excited about it and have lots of fun things planned. Still completely and utterly unsatisfied with Goose's school and teacher.

The Baby Hulk this week...read for ten minutes each day!!! I have a timer set so that both he and I don't get frustrated. We are trying this for another week then evaluating if this should continue. Honestly, he's a bit lazy when it comes to reading, but he is so, so ready. We're on book four of the second set of BOB books. Over the weekend, he tried to trick Goose and Lance into reading for him. Saying stuff like "I bet you can't read this page."

No David...continues to act the same. I try for most school work while he is asleep, but honestly, the best time for learning is in the morning. So I usually throw some letters at him and then the Baby Hulk has to make whatever letter he picks for him. I figure he will learn his letters this way. He is also coloring and so proud of it. I have a wall, (so sad) devoted to the kid's work and he always gets the tape for me to post his artwork! Too cute.

On living the liturgy...what a great week! We celebrated Our Lady of Fatima as it was the anniversary of the Day the Sun Danced. We also celebrated St. Therese of Avila and St. Gerard. Plus, we had Super Saints. This week, we'll focus on The Little Flower and St. Francis again.

To be Fit and Happy...working out. I think I am buying shoes for spin. I keep saying I'm going to wait until after the baby arrives, but I don't see myself going back to Body Combat for a while, so the shoes won't be a waste.

Around the house...I finally went to the attic and brought down Halloween decorations. Last year, Squirt made scary signs and I kept them. Lance wants to toss them, says I am "hoarding them, what about purging". He even asked Squirt if he would be mad if I threw them away. I let Squirt know he wouldn't have to be mad at me, but instead his dad. I won, they stay. The kids love holiday decorations.

One of my favorite things...Mad Men. LOVE this show. I can't wait for tonight. I have to wait until Lance comes back from Mass and CCE before watching it.

Squirt this week...I wrote a note in his lunch, not normal for him anymore. He brought it home with him and asked where he should put it. He knows this is what Goose does with all of his lunch notes. Isn't that the sweetest?!

Goose...while he continues to nerd out on a regular basis, he is also a trash talker. You should have heard him yesterday and today while the Cowboys played. And he doesn't care that I love the Cowboys.

A few plans for the week...school, swim, the gym, OB appt, field trip, Lost Pines.

A picture thought I am sharing...

So excited to finally "beat" his father in chess!

Daybook~ OU Sucks

Outside my window...It's sunny again. We're due for a cold front, and I would be so happy if that came true. It was miserably hot this week. The humidity almost killed me. So please, some nice weather would be nice.

I am listening to...The Texans and the Cowboys play. And Goose talk total shit right now. I don't think he realizes that I'm a Cowboys fan through and through. And that's fine as long as he likes the Longhorns. It is pretty cute watching him get excited about the game.

Speaking of...what the eff happened to my team? I knew there were major problems, but come on...more than a bit worried about this weekend. When the Longhorns lose, I usually retire whatever shirt I've worn so far. Since I'm pregnant, that really isn't an option for me this year. Also hoping nobody is dumb enough to call or expect to see me on Saturday. I watch games with Lance, my brother and dad or alone in the bedroom. There might be few exceptions for some games but definitely not for TX/OU. None.

I am wearing...a blue shirt and beige shorts with my heart pendant. Love my pendant.

I am grateful...that my hubby decided to watch the game at home instead of at Reliant. It's been a long week and I didn't want another day without him around.

I am praying...that we make the right decision about Goose.

I am thinking...that this week has been really long. I am tired and still have to make it to Costco and the grocery store, plus cook dinner and get ready for the week.

From the kitchen...another great week. We made lettuce wraps, which we loved so much we are having them again on Monday. I have a pretty good menu planned, but am hoping my baby takes me to dinner next weekend.

On keeping home...I love a clean house! Honestly, there are few things that make me that happy. Here's hoping that I keep up with things this week. I have a full bag for donations from just one toy basket. We didn't make it to the closets this week, but I am anticipating a huge donation drop this week. Yay for purging.

From the learning rooms...Goose read a Merlin Mission that took him to Florence. He read about Leonardo Da Vinci. It was cool to show him pictures from my past trips there and to look at Da Vinci's paintings online. We finished A week in science and will start Bugs next week. We already have three books, two games, some fun worksheets, (if you can call worksheets fun) and we're off to the library for more books tomorrow. I ordered Handwriting Without Tears for the Baby Hulk and can't wait to start. Super excited about that.

On living the liturgy...it's a big week for Saints. Last week we had Padre Pio, next week we have the Archangels, St. Jerome, St. Terese and St. Francis. These are all amazing saints that the boys can relate to really well so I am excited about that.

To be fit and happy...I am loving spin. The instructor rocks. I feel like the slowest one in there, but don't care. Now if I could just get rid of my sweet tooth.

Around the house...we bought three paint samples yesterday. I hope we make a quick decision this week and hire someone next week. And please, God, can you get people moving on my garage? Yes, I can deal with a newborn and workers, but I DON'T WANT TO.

One of my favorite things...learning toys. I am so lame, but I love them! My current favorite is Super Mind. The Baby Hulk is really good at these puzzles. And I just realized that they have a magnetic version for the car as well. Both Goose and Baby Hulk want them for Christmas.

Another favorite thing...DEXTER! It starts tonight. Can't wait.

Snax this week...let's see...he fell off a chair again yesterday, leaving a huge bruise on his forehead. Did that matter to him? Nope, he was up on a chair again within seconds. He pulled an apple out of the garbage, went outside and got in the mud, screamed at everyone. All this is cute, but the thing about him is that he has a rotten attitude a lot of the time. He has been pretty sweet talking to his brothers though. I love hearing him pick up new words.

A few plans for the week...Baby Hulk's four year old check up and the library on Monday, The Magic Flute at Miller's Outdoor theatre on Tuesday, swim lessons Wednesday and Thursday, cleaning and a play date for the little ones on Friday. A busy week.

A picture thought I am sharing...

The boys and the twins

Explanation: First, I know it's fuzzy, but since we were at church I had to turn the flash off. It was just so cute watching the little ones try and copy Goose during Mass that I just had to take a picture. And yes, I know I am not supposed to be taking pictures during Mass, but Mass was almost over, my mood from the loss had not improved and well, I just took the picture because I wanted to take it.

Am I allowed to be happy right now? The Cowboys won!

Daybook~ Trying to Get Settled

For Today...September 20, 2010

Outside my window...it's dark outside. My first break for today. The weather was actually decent today. I would love for things to cool down, but I'm not holding my breath.

I am wearing...the same shirt as in the pictures and denim shorts. I will admit it now, I will probably wear this shirt for the rest of my pregnancy. I hate buying maternity clothes, it seems like such a waste. So this means, I have a rotation of like four shirts. I guess it's a good thing it doesn't get really cold here because I can wear them until the baby arrives.

I am listening to...Monday night football.

I am grateful for...my phone call with Chel last week, my husband who keeps me in line, my kids who forgive, Mad Men, friends moving back to Houston and Castle starting tonight!

NOW, can I name the things that annoy me...okay, I won't, the list would be too long.

I am reading...so many books with Goose. We are on the home stretch of the Merlin Mission books of Magic Tree House. We are reading about two a week. Even with journaling and researching things we find interesting in the book, he is finishing them so fast.

I am thinking...that this week is already off to a bad start and how I can change that. Here's hoping tomorrow morning is a good one.

To be fit and healthy...SO...I have already gained 40 pounds, yes, 40 pounds. Nobody believes me, which means to my warped mind that I must look a lot bigger than I really am under normal circumstances, so thanks everyone for that one! Anyway...my weight gain is making my knee hurt so I took a week off from the gym and am now doing spin. No more Body Combat or Body Pump for me. Kind of bummed, but I love the spin class so I guess I'll be fine.

Around the house...I am purging big time. I have been collecting BA magazines since law school. Last year, I started going through them, pulling recipes and had about a year left to finish before I got bored with that project. That year turned into two years worth of magazines. Over the weekend, I finally tossed all of them, I didn't even bother looking at them. I'm over saving magazines. In fact, I think I'm about to cancel my subscription. I just purged my personal files this afternoon. My closet is next, then the boys. I am only keeping favorite outfits. If this baby turns out to be another boy, I guess I'm screwed. But I am done saving things.

From the kitchen...so happy to report that we are still keeping up with our menus. I am excited about what we're eating this week.

From the learning rooms...When I first sent Goose to school, I wasn't going to supplement at home at all. After all, he was gone all freaking day. But forget it. We're doing book reports, math facts, and are getting ready to start Story of the World, a history curriculum. If he stays in school and it gets to be too much, then we'll stop everything but the extra reading, if we pull him out, then we have something to go on. The Baby Hulk has proved to be a difficult student. My goal is three hours a week, total. We've turned everything into a game with him. It's amazing that since he turned four, he has thrown more fits than ever and not just during school time.

Towards rhythm and beauty...I have learned not to be quite as rigid with the schedule and that's a good thing. I suppose I am finally learning to be flexible.

I am praying...for peace.

Projects...picking out a paint color for our living room. I need the walls painted so I can get my shelves. This isn't really the season that Lance has tons of extra time to pick out paint colors. Still waiting on my garage to get going. Really worried I'm going to have a baby and contractors at my house.

One of my favorite things...reading with the boys. LOVE IT.

A few plans for the week...not much, I just want to organize everything.

Scenes from a birthday...

I am breaking my rule on not posting crappy pictures of people. Goose was so upset because I was kissing Baby Hulk and giving him attention on his birthday. How dare I?! This night had a lot of tears for Goose.