Do Over

This afternoon was not a great one. I sent Lance to College Station to attend a football clinic for the afternoon thinking it wouldn't be a big deal. He was only going to listen to one speaker. I just failed to account for his drive time. No biggie though, I figured they would nap, we'd make a Valentine's project, watch a short movie about St. Bernadette and have dinner.

The project sits unfinished, and the movie is still in its case.

I was so frustrated with the kids for various reasons: No David for his continued mischievous nature, The Baby Hulk's continued inability to do one thing I ask of him, and Goose's failure to read any of his school work this week. (Blog entry on that to come later.) And then my little girl: she continues to cry unless you hold her. While I don't believe in letting babies "cry it out" at this stage, there have been times that I have to put her down and let me tell you, the girl has stamina. She is relentless.

You could safely say that I was more than annoyed by bedtime.

And the boys knew it. It took every effort to say prayers and give kisses and tell them I love them. And that I expected more tomorrow. As I closed the door, I promised myself tomorrow would be better. I would do better.

Less than ten minutes later, Goose was in my room bawling. Earlier when No David was turning the television on and off (one of his new moves), Goose had seen something that scared him.

Here was my chance, and thank God, I didn't miss it. Thank God I was a mom instead of a drill sergeant. Hearing my reaction to Goose was enough to bring the Baby Hulk into the room. He decided that he was scared too. Then No David climbed out of his crib, telling us he was scared and wanted to snuggle. How could I turn that down?

I'm not usually a fan of holdouts during bedtime. We have long days, and the boys need their sleep. Period. Everyone has bedtimes, including Squirt, who just asked us when he would get a new time. We wouldn't survive without bedtimes. But for tonight, I'm grateful for the chance of a "Do Over" with the boys. They, no WE all deserved it.

Donuts versus King Cake

Today is the actual Feast of the Epiphany. I managed to make a super simple version of a King cake. And by simple, I mean I opened a can of Cinnamon rolls and shaped them into a circle, frosted it, then put colored sugar on it. It tasted good, looked decent except the purple sugar turned out black.

I was pretty excited to share this with the kids tonight until Goose decided he wanted a donut. When I turned him down, he decided he was going to pout to get his way and when that didn't work, he didn't talk to me while driving home from the store. He told me he didn't want my cake, didn't like it, refused to remember what it was and so on. He continued sulking and proceeded to hit the Baby Hulk in the face when he dared to enter the playroom. What nerve.

He was finally able to leave the room and once he saw the King Cake, he realized that he did indeed like it and told me that he would have a piece. When I told him he wouldn't have a piece, he decided tears were in order. He gave a good effort, but in the end, he will have his piece tomorrow. I think he's over being mad at me, but I haven't checked to see if he turned his pictures of me in his room around. That's what he does to show me who is really boss.

Sports Crazy

Goose is out of control. Every morning he gets up and watches the shortcuts, an NFL game in less than 30 minutes, that Lance has recorded from the previous week and then Sports Center. The kids can tell us scores from games, players from different teams...basically he is my husband and brother, but only six. Lance says he wasn't this interested at Goose's age. I must admit I am super proud of him.

And it's not just football.

He scrolls though all the channels looking for both football and basketball games, shouting who will be playing and when. (In fact, he can now work the remote better than me.) He got mad at Lance this morning because we don't subscribe to a channel that had a replay of Auburn versus South Carolina.

The only problem with this obsession: I have caught him watching women's Big 10 basketball twice in the past week. This is taking things a bit too far.

We Don't Roll Tide In This House

Have I mentioned that Goose is a total trash talker? Chelsea came over earlier in the week and was wearing a Bama shirt. Goose immediately smirked about it to the Baby Hulk. Within hearing distance. She told him that she could hear him, but he didn't care.

On Christmas Eve at the 1560 party, Chelsea told Goose that the hoodie below was a Bama hoodie because of the design. Christmas morning, he received two Longhorn hoodies and immediately let us know that the Bama hoodie needed to go to the donation pile. There would be no chance of anyone else wearing such an offensive jacket.

My Day

Despite a bad start this morning in the form of a super cranky Baby Hulk, the day turned out almost perfect. Goose and the Baby Hulk went with me to the Symphony this morning. The timing couldn't have been better because we have been studying instruments at home this past week. The concerts are perfectly timed, and the boys enjoy this sort of thing every so often. I really appreciate what Houston has to offer kids in the form of "arts".

Afterwards, I managed to find gifts for all the boys from my dad and ordered them online for him making it even easier for him. Since my dad gets really mad at me if I don't have gifts lined up for the boys, this is a HUGE weight off my shoulders. I think I have convinced him that he is done shopping for them.

During this whole time, Squirt cleaned out his room. We all know how I love purging and cleaning out stuff. I haven't even gone to inspect, but by the looks of the bag leaving his room today, he has room to share his closets with someone new, if needed.

Tonight, we went to a birthday party for the Baby Hulk's best friend. The three little ones went and had a blast. We came home in time for the Big 12 Championship game. Of course, I had no real interest in the game, but Goose was dying to watch football. He wanted to know if we would ever cheer for OU. I explained to him that "No, we would never cheer for OU, but that if them beating a team would help us, then we would be okay with them winning." In this case, nothing can help us, so he has been screaming for Nebraska all night long. I LOVE this kid. Considering his love for football, I have to wonder how long he can stay at the nerd-fest his school is. (And I know, nerds love football too.)

That's How God Made You

Tonight when Goose was taking a bath he told me that he had two bumps you know where. Being mom, I started freaking out, wondering why he had bumps. Then he started saying how they kept rolling out of his hands like balls. Yes, we're already there. I told him that was how his body was supposed to be. Upon hearing this the Baby Hulk immediately asked "why" at least ten times. Somehow saying "that's how God made you" didn't work. Both wanted to know exactly why God had given them balls.

Music To My Ears

Goose- "I'm just going to call the Sooners losers." and this one-"I think the Sooners are close to the devil."

And my personal favorite from the Baby Hulk..."OU Sucks."

Yes, me dear son, they do indeed suck. They won, and I swear, my phone rang within five minutes of the game ending. Why, I ask, why? If there is any good from today, it is the fact that my kids sat through most of the game and hate OU as much as I do. And while Lance gets all weird about them saying OU sucks, I couldn't be more proud of them. The other day, the Baby Hulk wanted to know who we would cheer for if OU were playing Alabama. While it kills me to say it, obviously, we would root for Bama. I don't think the boys quite understand that yet, but I am sure they will one day.

It's 8:21 pm and OU still sucks.

Where Imagination Runs Wild

Goose came running from the playroom with a couple of books, telling me that he was going to his Magic Tree House. He was going to "imagine an adventure" with his brother. I think they just read, but how sweet and cute they are!

School Sucks

I hate Goose's school. There, I said it. It's not better this year. In fact, it's worse. Quite frankly, I don't see what the big deal is about the school. If this is a G/T or Vanguard program, I would hate to see how bad a regular school in the city is. The fact that it is rated so high means nothing to me since the ratings are basically based upon test scores.

I remember someone once telling me how they had a friend at a different Vanguard school that loved the program. The school was also a neighborhood school, and their second kid hadn't qualified for the program. Supposedly that program was so great and interesting that he wished the other kid were in it. I have no feelings like that. Let's see, the first field trip of the year is to the exact same place he went last year. Super imaginative on their part. When I asked Goose's teacher for an explanation about the type of reading test he had been given this year, she couldn't tell me the difference between this test and the one he took last year. I asked for a class schedule, and she didn't want to give me one. He missed three days of school and had three worksheets to complete while gone. What the eff do they do all day? Why not tell the parents what they are studying so we can do something at home with our children that might reinforce their studies? At the very least, I'd love to have a conversation with my son about what he does during the day. Without a guide to their studies, I have to rely on him giving me a play by play of the day, which most people know six year olds don't give.

My friend once asked me if I thought school was just about the three R's when I moaned about the time wasted in school. While I realize there is more than just learning the basics, like making friends and learning to follow rules, I do think the three R's are what it should be about. It seems to me they don't do much except learn how to walk in the halls. I swear, it takes them more than ten minutes to get back from the cafeteria. I can promise if they just go, they would get there much more quietly.

And please explain why I, the person who doesn't believe in shit homework, am stuck doing it every day with him. They have him there all day long, maybe if they spent more time in the room rather than learning how to walk down the hallway, they would learn more and not have petty worksheets.

They say that your first fight with your spouse is the same thing you will fight about for the rest of your relationship. I think it's safe to say that this subject matter has taken over.

Heard

1. While discussing what the boys could have for dinner, I told Lance that the Baby Hulk could have something different from he said. BH in his most smart ass voice said, "I told you mom was boss." I could have died. I try really hard to make Lance the big boss of the house. I might need to work on that a bit more.

2. Goose and the Baby Hulk were discussing heaven. Goose assured him that "you don't die until you are really old and short, like Bisa." Baby Hulk said,"Like Mimi and grandpa?" I think he was just referring to the short part, but should I be posting this right before his birthday? It got worse because Goose then told me I didn't have to worry because I wasn't shrinking yet.

3. After hearing the boys argue about who I love best, Lance asked Goose who he loved best, thinking Goose would answer appropriately. Goose took no time in saying "Mom". He was quick to add that he loved Lance "second best". Did I smile at all?

Nerds Gone Wild

For the past two nights, Goose has gone to sleep with a book. It's a reasonable sized book, not a true chapter book like we read together, but a book that would take two to three nights to read aloud. This morning, I caught him with the book and a flashlight. I didn't start that until I was in my teens. Is this a good thing or not?!

Something Missing

Another milestone was hit today in Casa Zierlein. And it wasn't Goose screaming and crying in the dentist's office. The ladies kept trying to explain away his tears, but I just didn't care. I wasn't embarrassed, (slightly annoyed, but not embarrassed). There are few things my kids can do to shame me. Did I want him to look like a big cry baby? Not really. It's one of the few things little kids do that really grate on my nerves. But there we were, him screaming before they even got near him. Finally, they had to take him to the back for his X-rays. And the things is I just don't understand his fear. Why? Because at age 40, I've never had a cavity! Hopefully, this kid has my teeth.

ANYWAY...the point of this post wasn't about my poor guy hating the dentist, although he did finally calm down. My baby boy lost his first tooth!!! And he wants a tiny rocket ship under his pillow. Lance said tough, he gets money. I am fighting the urge to run out and buy a tiny rocket ship because I don't want him sad in the morning. Lance also says that he only gets four quarters. I got at least four quarters thirty-four years ago. Marivi just told me they gave her son five bucks. I'm somewhere in between, but of course, I have no cash. I may be calling Jessica for help tonight! Congratulations my sweet boy on losing your first tooth!

For those that don't read the comments: Lance came through with a five for Goose! I would hate for anyone to think he is cheap because he isn't. I am the cheap one on most things.

And They're Off!

School started today. And we made it. So far. We got up and ready in record time, I even managed to get my hair done on time. We left the house without rushing and were inside with ten minutes to spare. And then Goose decided he didn't want me to leave. He didn't talk to any of his friends from last year and looked just miserable. Despite being told to leave the kids in the teacher's hands, I walked with Goose to his new classroom. He finally smiled upon seeing his locker. (A locker in first grade! WTH!) I hope his day improves, and he likes his new teacher and classmates. Unfortunately, most of his friends are in the other first grade class. To make up for the time I spent inside, I brought the rest of the boys donuts from the parent coffee. Squirt was so relaxed on the way to school, much different than last year. He wasn't interested in taking a good-bye picture though.

I hope this year is a wonderful year for my boys and that they excel in all they do. I want them to enjoy learning and go beyond what is required of them in school. I want real learning, not memorization and hopefully they have teachers, especially Squirt that will inspire this type of learning. May God, the Saints, Angels and Mary watch over you every day that I am not with you, Squirt and Goose. I love you both so much and already miss you. The Baby

Hulk and I will be making cookies for you guys today.

One More Lesson

School starts in one week and one day. I can't believe how fast the summer flew. I am not ready for the boys to go to school. Squirt might be, but Goose isn't at all. I'm trying to get in a little bit of mom school before he goes back, but there doesn't seem to be enough time. Sigh. I usually say I don't regret any decisions in life from school choices to ex boyfriends, but I can safely say I will always regret not homeschooling Goose. Does this mean I'm about to lose it for another year, I hope not, but I do regret it and I am sure this means Lance will hear about it for the next couple of weeks. Thankfully for him, football has started so he can disappear whenever he wants. We have one last book to finish before school starts, then all Goose has to worry about at home is the stupid homework public schools feel is necessary for 6 year olds. (But that's another blog post.)

The Biggest Insult

This morning I told the boys that Chelsea was coming over and then reminded them where she goes to school. Alabama. The Baby Hulk shuddered and Goose threw out the biggest insult he could think of: Chelsea likes Rachel Ray. I don't think it gets any worse than liking RR in this house!

Six

Goose- I tucked you into bed tonight saying, "goodnight five-year old boy." Your face was so cute because you know that tomorrow I can't call you that. Tomorrow, you will be six. I talked with you about July 8, 2004: how my water broke and that it was time, but that you weren't quite ready to come. Not until the next day. That's how I feel now. I want to keep holding on to today.

What a year five has been for you. Of course, the biggest thing to happen this year was going to public school. And what a success you were. Even though you had never been to daycare beyond the gym, preschool or day camp, you shined at school. And how I missed you. There wasn't a day that passed that I didn't want you home with me, learning with me, reading with me. And it wasn't just me that missed you. Your baby brothers wanted you around as well which is why we had lunch together so often. I am already getting manic thinking about you returning to school.

People always laugh at me because I never sent you to preschool and you're not in camps all summer long. I just wonder how they can stand to be separated from their kids willingly in the summer. Nothing has made me smile more than watching you play with the Baby Hulk lately. Despite being stuck inside due to illness and rain, you two have had a blast and without the TV, I might add! While it's not always fun and games, I love the bond I see you two developing and hope you will always have his back the way he has your back.

Five marked the year that you first cried over a sporting event. You have no idea how proud that made both me and your father. I can't wait to see how you are during football season!

At five, you still LOVE to read. When we go to bookstores, I catch you reading two books at a time. You love story time regardless of what I'm reading. I have enjoyed going through all the Magic Tree House books this year and am excited to find a new series to read together.

Your love for Super Saints is what keeps me going when I want to call it quits. We have learned so much together through Super Saints, and I hate the look on your face when we've had to cancel our meetings. I hope you always love the Saints the way you do now and look to them for inspiration and intercession.

Goose, you are my baby, the child that is most like me. I'm not sure that is a good thing, but it does make me understand you better than any child in this house. You have made me happier than I thought possible. The fact that you kept every lunch note all year long is the sweetest thing in the world and possibly a little OCD. Your love for Snoopy has not waivered this year, and I hate the thought that one day you won't care where he is. For now, I will enjoy that you throw a fit if he gets left behind. I will always be here for you. I love you more than you can ever know. May God continue to bless you and keep you safe. Happy Birthday, my dear, sweet, six-year old boy.

Quote of the Week

Goose: "Mom, guess what the best thing in my world is?"
Me: "What?"
Goose: "You! And TV is my second best thing."

WHAT??? I guess I should be happy that I came in first over TV. It amazes me the hold television can have over people. Here is a kid who wasn't allowed to watch television until he turned three years old, and he was only allowed one 30 minute show at the time. Even now, he can only watch for an hour per day.

After careful consideration and a reminder from Aunt Stacy, Goose has amended his statement. TV is third, Snoopy is second. I am safe for now.

Houstonian Pictures

The reception staff heard about Goose's eye problem (and our extra guest) and sent him some cookies!

We always return to the Houstonian to have the same meal we served at our reception. Really, it was good that Goose was along for the hotel stay so he could capture this picture of us in the ballroom!

Prayer Request

Goose has an eye infection that doesn't seem to be getting any better. He is very uncomfortable and has already made a trip to the ER on Sunday due to this. He is very upset by his appearance and it breaks my heart. He wears sunglasses all day and won't look at himself in the mirror. He has managed to tag along at our Houstonian getaway. Not too much of a CB! Please keep him your prayers for a speedy recovery. Thank you!

Weekend Review

This weekend was fabulous. After a long week during which I barely saw Lance, I decided we needed a night to ourselves. We fed the kids a real meal, (not frozen chicken or mac-n-cheese), and put them to bed. (Not Squirt!) We waited thirty minutes for the young ones to fall asleep then took off for our date. We decided on Bistro Don Camillo since it was close to home and they had recently been on Southbound Food. The food didn't disappoint. We even saw someone there who went after hearing about it on Southbound Food. It was so nice to just sit and relax with my hubby especially since I knew he would be gone for half of the next day.

I was so excited to make it to my Bodystep class on Saturday. I LOVE this class and have missed it so much since the instructor started working a new job during the week. She wants me to come in at 6 in the morning to workout with her, but I'm not sure I have it in me to do that and still deal with the kids ALL. DAY. LONG.

We went to our friends Clint and Shea's 40th birthday party Saturday night. I met Clint and Shea through Lance, and I love that I've managed to become friends with them on my own too. I think they feel the same way. We don't see them nearly as much as we should, but we have managed to catch a few dinners over the past six months and I'm hoping we continue this trend. I really like that they want to hang out with us, and not us and our kids! The party was fabulous with incredible food. Shea's mom is an amazing cook and is always willing to give out recipes, too bad my stuff doesn't come out quite the same!

We had a quiet Father's Day: got up, went to Mass (amazing sermon), then saw this fellow walking through the neighborhood leaving Mass. Can you believe it? The lady we talked to says there is also a male that runs around with this chick!

We spent the afternoon with my dad and brother, my other two favorite dads. The grilling was awesome as usual, and the kids came home exhausted. My dad even shared the special dessert I made for him. He still has a third left for himself, but I know he was watching us to make sure we didn't eat too much.

My highlight of the weekend...My Goose learned how to ride a bike. A girl bike, a midget bike, but nonetheless, A TWO WHEELER! I am so excited for him. He was so proud of himself and so were his brothers.