Tic Tac Toe

You were my high.

2012-01-03T09:41:00.000-08:00

Twenty twelve.

It's here!! As most people, I tend to reflect on the year that just passed by (in a hurry as usual). People sometimes do a look back through the year. You can reflect on the dark days you had, the best moments, the vacations, the sleepless nights, all the belly laughs. Your high, your low. I've tried to remember the sweetest moments from our year. Sweet, sugary, candy-coated moments frozen in our minds for safe keeping.

I debated writing a post of a little yearly recap, it's been quite a year. I considered looking back at each month and reminiscing, perhaps even breaking it down in to our high and our low. I decided against that. I am sure there were many highs. And lots of lows. All worthy of being mentioned and remembered. I am not forgetting them, but I'm choosing to relish in the high. Treasuring the how rich our life was this year.

It's probably obvious to anyone who knows our family or has been apart of our lives the past year, but he was my high.

I vividly remember New Year's Eve of 2010. Really, the last few months of 2010. I was hoping and wishing it was 2011. Because I knew he was coming. I could cradle his floppy newborn body and swoop him up to smell his forehead. As always, it would be surreal. Yet, awesome. This time it'd exactly the same, but it would be different. Now we'd be complete (~~FOR SURE~~...~~probably~~...~~maybe~~...for now).

Oh Alexander. You were my high. The highest high of 2011.

You came to us early in the year and nothing has been the same since.

There is more love. I'm not sure if you brought joy with you. But this year there was more. More joy. And the giggles, not sure either, but we all laughed lots this year. More laughter. Among other awesome things you brought with you serenity, sleepless nights, chubby rolls that conceal your wrists, chocolate eyes, and happiness. You're the high. The happy. My happy.

More dimples to admire, more toes to nibble. Another baby to the mix. Lots of babies in our house. MORE BABIES.

In a weird twist there was more patience and yet none at all. We learned to be a team. A unit.

One could argue that we are getting pretty good at this whole zone defense technique with you and your brothers. Some days. And some days we should probably just go to bed and start over.

It's pretty amazing that someone so little (who are we kidding, you are HUGE) could teach so much (to those of us who already know EVERYTHING ;) Ha!). IN JUST ONE YEAR.

It's obvious.
Clear as day.
Undeniable, unmistakeable.

You were the high.
My high. Our high.
Our happy. My happy.

Thursday 10.

2011-12-22T09:55:00.000-08:00

I originally planned to write this post on Tuesday. But really, I typed most of it on Wednesday. I ended up having to change the post title three times - you get the drift right? Dang. I am bad with deadlines. I am busy. Okay, TRUTH. I am a huge procrastinator. There I said it. At least I had good intentions. Right? That's what really matters. Those intentions were to blog blissful nothings about my ~~Tuesday~~ Thursday.

1. I really didn't want to "overdo" Christmas for the boys this year. I had plans to stick to minimal gifts; I even tossed around the idea of the 'a want', 'a need' & 'a read' type of gifts. It's not that I don't love gifts. I really do. I actually prefer GIVING gifts then getting them also. Especially for my kids. Except you see, my kids don't even play with toys. They would rather play with an old flashlight, vintage harmonica and a random measuring tape. Not real toys. We actually have bins full, they overflow. It's sickening. And most of them aren't ever touched. So when I walk up and down the aisles of Toys R Us aimlessly (Man is that place a cluster f*$# or WHAT?), I think a lot of toys are cute. And probably really neat. And I admit, I know my kids would love opening/receiving them. But then in less then a week, we'd be missing half the pieces and in two weeks, I'd be bagging them up to donate. Well, my plan went haywire. I'm afraid we overdid Christmas. Again.

2. I got an hour massage today. It was awesome. Apparently, I'm stressed and I didn't even know it. So says, my shoulders. I've decided that I am going to make a huge jug of cucumber water for my house, so that I can pretend I'm always at the spa. Even amongst the unruliness.

3. It's been raining so much lately. It's also really cold. Wet, freezing weather is the brewing of the perfect storm when you have children full of energy. Memo to self: you live in the age of technology. GOOGLE IS YOUR FRIEND. YOUR VERY BEST FRIEND INDEED.

INDOOR ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS....they really do exist.

4. Alexander is at this really adorable stage lately. I love mostly everything he is doing these days (except waking up throughout the night like a newborn still, umm yeah). BUT MY FAVORITE....after bath, I take him upstairs all lotioned and jammied up (my euphoria). Smelling delicious I snuggle him in his rocker. We rock, I sometimes hum a little lullaby. He nurses and pats my collarbone, he looks at me and coyly grins. Then it happens. We begin to hear ~~pitter patter of little feet~~ the stampede of his older brothers coming up for bedtime stories. He knows it's them, to be sure. But, he has to double check. He quickly unlatches, squirms his warm little body to sit upward on my lap, tilts his little head and peers over his shoulder. Both boys barge through his door, giggling, breathing loudly and he lights up. The minute they leave he's back to nursing peacefully. He's so nosy. It's the cutest thing EVER.

5. I should really buy a highchair. We got rid of it after Max outgrew it. Highchairs are my very least favorite piece of baby equipment. They are bulky and obnoxious and oh, the crevices where food can be lodged. *gag* Most of our meals, look at little like this.

6. I burned a batch of bacon the other night, attempting this awesome new recipe we are calling eggy-toast-cups. I swear I can still smell it. I love all things bacon, allegedly. Minus the stench of a burnt batch.

7. I successfully wrapped all of the boys' (or is it boy's?) Christmas presents. *sigh of relief* I cannot wait for the excitement that will erupt in my living room on Christmas morning!!!

8. I'm still randomly finding stacks of Christmas cards. Already sealed in envelopes and addressed. They were just hidden or perhaps misplaced on their way out the door. Oops. So, here is it for the world to see.

Christmas Card 2011 front

Christmas card 2011 back

If I forgot you, I'm sorry. If your card is in the stack still hiding, I'm really sorry. But we hope your Christmas is awesome all the same. ;)

9. The piles of laundry are slowly dwindling. I think I only have 12 9 4 loads to go. It's a true Christmas miracle.

10. If there was any question who AQ looked like. The mystery has been solved.

SEND IN THE CLONE!!! I shall call him....Mini Me.

Happy Thursday!!

Christmas program.

2011-12-19T15:11:00.000-08:00

Mason had his Christmas program last week. (Can you believe I'm already blogging it? I know me neither.)

It was well orchestrated. It was quick. It was one of the most adorable things I've ever seen. And it was the last preschool holiday program he'll ever be in.

Bittersweet.

Sometimes I think I cannot believe he is about to turn FIVE. That's a whole hand. That is SO old. Especially when I a picture like this.

Then I see pictures like this.

And I die.

A thousand deaths of holy cuteness. The preciousness oozing from that little face. Ohmygod.

He is so little still. Really, just a little peanut. He's well over three feet, but oddly enough he is nowhere close to four feet yet.

He rocked out to Rudolph. He practiced diligently the entire week before. He did it while (he thought) no one was watching. He did it on the way to school in the car. He did it right before bed. He wanted to be ready for the crowds, to sing it just perfectly. And oh, he did.

I love the way he glanced proudly in to the church pews. Smiling though his bright little eyes. And then he waved. Not just to anyone, but to me. And he flashed his smile, dimples and all. Slid his tongue across his teeth. A Mason-trademark of excitement.

And I was reminded once again, just what a small little guy he is. He has come a long way since this time last year. He isn't painfully shy, but he occasionally tugged at the bottom of his shirt, like a little flashback to the coyness he's possessed all along.

That sweet, shy smile, that off beat performance, that little holiday carol. It's going down with Rudolph, in history.

Seriously?

2011-12-05T09:38:00.000-08:00

I can't believe the things I find myself saying lately.

Seriously.

"We do not put our wenis on the dinner table." In case you thought that wasn't an obvious fact of life/rule/common sense, well in our house it is not. At least when your are two ("annna haveeeeeeeee") Seriously.

"Your undies do not belong on your head."

"Stop touching (insert anybody's name) nipples."

"Get the toothbrush out of your pants."

"Glow sticks do not belong in your ears. Or your nose."

"I will give you chocolate and donuts for breakfast - if you stay in your bed." Usually quickly followed up by..."Seriously, I swear if you get out of this bed again you will not get to go to school tomorrow." Memo to self: you are punishing but NOBODY. But maybe yourself.

"No weapons allowed at nap time."

"No licking the elf."

"Cookie monster is pretend sweetie. He doesn't really want to eat your cookie."

"I know you really want to take a bath, but it's past bedtime. You can take a bath on Friday." My 4 year old actually replied very in super whine "Buuuuuttttttaaaaa we neverrrrr take bathssss". LIE. No one even wants a bath unless it's bedtime!

"Do not bite your brother."

"Take Batman out of your cereal."

Things have been super exciting and chaotic around our house lately. Most days I find myself thinking is this for real, like is this really happening?

And it is.

Seriously.

Halloween 2011

2011-11-22T09:55:00.000-08:00

The boys dressed up as Alvin & the Chipmunks this year for Halloween. Actually, they all had multiple costumes, but this was the real deal, for the real event.

Let's just be really clear too - getting that photo was no easy feat. Also, not the easiest task, stuffing plump baby feet in to high tops. After 500 snaps and a lollipop bribery though. Success! AQ, baby, you need to get those thighs under control. Or not, because I love how the chub rolls over your knees. Cankles were so 2010. The whole thigh-swallowing-your-knee thing...now THAT IS WHAT IT IS ALL ABOUT. You are obviously very fashion forward.

In some delusion I believed Max would be our best candidate for Simon and wearing those adorable little glasses. Delusion indeed. Daddy to the resuce though; Michael had the genius idea of drawing the glasses on him with makeup or a marker (I already forgot what we used) truly genius! Well, genius until 8:15 the next morning when rushing out the door for preschool, realizing "Oh snap, that marker may or may not have been so washable". CRAYOLA LIES!

Mason as usual loved Halloween. He bossed us all around about which house we needed to go to next and which side of the road we should be walking on. He threw around some stranger danger rules, insisted on carrying the flashlight, and in all his four year old glory he refused to carry his candy bag about three houses in to the night.

Anyone that has met Max knows this kid has a sweet tooth that would put Willy Wonka to shame. Seriously. He's been known to eat THROUGH a wrapper to get to the candy. That really happened last Halloween. Twice. Needless to say he was ENTHRALLED at the idea of people just giving him candy, without even throwing a fit? At a few houses, people sat there with an entire cauldron filled with sugary goodness. At those house, Max kind of camped out on their doorstep, plunging his hand in to the bucket repeatedly. He'd look up with his big ole black eyes, flash his dimples and load his bag up a little fuller. His bag was double the weight of Mason's by the end of the night. That kid knows how to work it.

I said this last year too, but I'm pretty sure this was the last year I'll get to convince them to coordinate costumes. Or have any say whatsoever for Mason (well maybe) and Max (definitely not). I have visions of next Halloween including crazy one piece Transformer costumes. Oh, wait. That totally happened this year against every wish I'd ever had, I let my kid wear one of those costumes. Never say never right? I've totally got this whole "pick your battles" thing down these days.

We need to work on the "thank you's" for next year. And probably teaching Max that you can't just walk in some strangers house, especially if they are offering you candy.

And you better believe I had my fair share of those candy bags (that still need to be thrown away).

Oh, remember.

2011-11-15T11:07:00.000-08:00

I once again have totally dropped the ball with this blogging business. I suppose that is because it isn't really a business. Just something I promised myself to try and keep up with to remember all the sweet little things about this time in our lives. So much sweetness. Accompanied by so much chaos.

I try to sit down during my free time and write. And remember. And cherish the stories. But free time, what is that anyway? A twisted notion created by someone who surely isn't a parent. Okay, that was dramatic.

It's time (once again I know) to recommit. To stop making excuses, that's what I've been doing. Sometimes I'll sit down and log in the blog, and I'll just stare at the screen. My last post was in August, back to school, I mean seriously? Seriously. Then I think of all the things that have transpired from then until now. It's about to be Thanksgiving for crying out loud. How can I possibly backtrack? How will I ever catch up? I can't. It becomes a daunting task, then I get frustrated and so I move the cursor to that friendly "x" way up in the right hand corner and I quit. Aha! Problem SOLVED. Except for this doesn't solve anything. In fact, it compounds the problem, because then another day goes by, and everyday there is something ridiculously hilarious and cute happening, and probably somewhat insane. I want to remember the everydays, not just big things. The everyday typical madness that I'm submerged in.

And with the blink of an eye, that one day has turned in to two months. So I'm not going to try and relive those moments. I'm just going to start over, from here, from today. I'm promising to just...well, write. And remember.

I want nothing more than to be able to look back and remember the way this guy still tiptoes down stairs every single morning and snuggles. He nuzzles right beside me, his head falls under directly under my chin. I don't even have to crack open an eyelid. I know it's him - this one.

Will he always fit so perfectly against my chest? He has unquestionably more then doubled his height from his newborn days, yet he still fits nestled alongside me the exact same. My ribs and his spine interlock. And it's dreamy and it's real and it's mine. I remember it vividly, but can't help and wonder - does he? Hopefully I can help him remember with stories like these. Stories full of my memories. And then it ends, sometimes mere minutes later, this peaceful morning ritual. It is quickly interrupted by restlessness and giggles, cartoon request and crushed cheerios. I want to remember that too, equally as vivid.

And please let me remember the way this little guy's hands feel when he presses them against my cheeks to make sure my eyes are focused on his. Contact. And then the adorableness just oozes straight from his soft cherub-like cheeks. I love you's abound. Melting me. Rarely in any volume but EXTRA LOUD. I want to remember the way he sings Twinkle Twinkle, and throws in various lullaby's to fill the missing gaps. The way he squints his eyes when he smiles this smile.

And though he is easily ten inches shorter than his brother, he fits my chest all the same. We too, have chemistry, we too are perfectly intertwined. His skin so delicate and soft, his hands still hanging on to baby fat. Oh those chubby little fingers! His thumb often propped in his mouth while his eyes drift silently. Yes, ~~please let me~~ I will remember.

Of course, there is more. Memories yes, they've already been made with this peanut as well. Eight months really flies by, but all along the way, I am storing the treasures of this little person. And oh the treasures he was blessed with. The way his face appears swollen and his eyes a tad puffy after a sweet slumber. I want to remember way he plays with his tongue. Tongue in cheek, tongue peeks out, surrounds his lips, blow raspberries all while looking ridiculously adorable, excited, proud, and mischievous. Repeat. This tongue, this baby. Swoon.

I want to remember the way his small arms and body fall lifeless after he has fallen fast asleep, clutched under my arms. The way his hand feels against my chest when he nurses, speechlessly claiming me, while I claim him. His breathing mimics mine. I want to forget the dinner dishes waiting in the sink downstairs, slip away in to the safe haven of the nursery glider and cradle my bitty until his sparkling brown eyes drift off. How long will he allow being rocked? Assuredly, not quite long enough. The way he tucks his lower lip in to his mouth, concealing it's plumpness. The way he coyly tilts his head, resting it on his own shoulder. And I need to remember the soft sigh of relief, of comfort and security. That simple exhale when his chest discovers mine. Our very own secret retreat.

Because these little things are what is worth writing down. And remembering. Because these little things, well, they are the big things.

back to school.

2011-08-22T20:54:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year.

The end of August brings routine. The familiarity of backpacks, lunchboxes,

We are back to school.

Mason is Pre - K this year. He is SUPER EXCITED. His friends from the Old 3's class have pretty much all returned to his class. His teachers are sweeter then pie. We're all really excited to be back on a schedule. A familiar, daily schedule that keeps us all a little more sane.

After dropping Mason off today, Max and I got to hang. He's going to school too, but his schedule will just be two days a week. So lucky for him, he's got time with mama alone (well, you know AQ is our sidekick as well). Most common phrase of the day: "Bruber at SCHOOOOOO" - to basically, anyone with an ear. Yes Max, your brother is at school.

(Of course, he wanted HIS picture too!)

So excited to watch our big guy foster his love of reading, writing, and learning. We can't wait to see you explore your world more and more this year Mason! We hope you're school year is full of fun.

I wanted to share this little letter I wrote to you for your first day. I know it's just preschool. Really, I do. But preschool is kind of a big deal. It's the beginning of your whole education - it's going to form the mold of who you are.

Mason,
As you venture back to school I want you to remember some important things. Not just to wash your hands or be careful on the playground. Those things are important too. I want you to remember more than that. More than picking up your trash after art class, more then raising your hand. More than sitting still and following directions. I want you to remember what is really important about school. I know, you're always having to follow my rules and listen to my words. I know it can be really tough, being so little and having to remember so much. But listen closely, I want you to know this. To take it to heart. I mean it from the bottom of my mama heart.

Remember to be curious. Remember to read as many books as you can. Always listen to your teachers. Don't be afraid to ask questions, to stand up to bullies, to make friends with people who look or act different then you. Remember that school is your only job. Remember that school should be challenging, but also enjoyed. Savor nap time. Use your imagination. When you feel silly, laugh. Hug your friends, be respectful, don't forget to say please & thank you. If you forget everything else, please remember to try your hardest. Please remember that we are thinking of you every minute of the day that you aren't with us, hoping and praying you are relishing these moments and thriving.

Xoxo,
Mama

Oh - and Max's first day was supposed to be tomorrow. But that one. Oh that one. The little nugget indeed isn't feeling well. Pulling a Ferris Bueller already. Bueller.....bueller....? Here's to a healthy (after this week??) and happy school year for both my big, but still tiny boys!

So long, sweet summer.

2011-08-22T20:18:00.000-07:00

I love summertime. The days are full of fun, with nothing that has to be done. Well, except swimming. That is the solitary rule of summer - WE HAVE TO SWIM.

Summer is the best because...

Cousins become like siblings.

The beach becomes the playground.

A night swim replaces bath time.

We eat ice cream nearly every week.

Your only chore is to wash your bike. And maybe, your babies.

Story time is under a tent. Even if it's just a sheet tent.

The most worn article of your wardrobe is a first place tie between swim trunks & life vests. Which obviously means, you've spent a ton of time at the lake.

Summer is the best because..

..you can stay in jammies until noon. At any given moment you can plop down for a nice afternoon nap on the couch.

Or you might just be jumping off a cliff. See, summer is that awesome.

..the smell of sunscreen babies fills the air...there is no greater smell then BABY mixed with SUNSCREEN.

..there are no backpacks or lunchboxes to be packed. Just movies to be watched and brothers to be snuggled.

..ice-pops become a food group, along with sno-cones, and other iced cocktail and beverage delicacies.

..sunshine is intoxicating

..SANGRIA. SERIOUSLY.

We love summer so much in this house. The late nights, the lazy days, the busy days, the swimming and splashing, the sunscreen-ing, the skipped baths, the lax schedules and lack of routine. So sadly we say...so long summer. We will excitingly anticipate your arrival next year.

Summer is the best because, I SAID SO.

So long, summer. Thanks for all the memories you helped us make. You were really sweet.

Easter. In July.

2011-08-18T18:57:00.000-07:00

As I was browsing old camera cards, I stumbled upon Easter pictures. That's right EASTER. I know, I know, it's July. I guess that just goes to show how chaotic my life was this past Easter. You know with adjusting to a new baby and having to keep two other children alive, fed, and bathed (okay, so we missed a lot of baths that month too).

This Easter was extra special, because it was our first holiday as a family of FIVE. Well, besides St. Patrick's' Day. Who celebrates that anyway? Plus it wasn't like I was being served any delicious green beer in the Labor & Delivery Unit, so we'll stick with Easter as the first holiday. Party of five, bunny style.

(So maybe a great picture of all of us isn't gonna happen this year. Or maybe ever.)

A family tradition on Easter is fried chicken. I have absolutely no idea when or how it started, but it is what it is. This year was no different. Except for the mounds of sushi. It's a new tradition. But fear not - fried chicken was still there. (I mean seriously is that enough soy sauce or WHAT?)

Picture recap - better late then never right? Right.

As you can see we ate chocolate. Lots and lots of chocolate. I thought Valentine's was going to be a holiday topper for Max with all the candy that comes with it. I somehow forgot or never realized that Easter has even more chocolate then Valentine's days.

AND PEEPS!

Those kids were some sweet, sticky messes after Easter. You better believe they got their baths that night. I *think*. Yeah, you're right, they probably didn't. But no one complained.

Mason did his best to find EVERY golden egg at EVERY egg hunt he participated in. He was so stoked. (Disclaimer: he was the oldest kid participating in this said egg hunt....but hey, he still found it!)

Mason got a beloved Slinky Dog - he was so excited that the crazy huge bunny he saw at the mall "read his dreams" and remembered this slinky dog. A slinky dog and chocolate for breakfast. OH YES, YES, AND CROCS. *insert happy dance* Forget Easter people, it was like Christmas over here.

As all holidays are with the munchkins, it was a busy day full of chaos and fun. Hopefully next Easter I'll remember to blog it sooner, unless of course, I'm busy cleaning sweet, sticky Peep fingers and snuggling chubby cheeks covered in melted chocolate that is. Priorities and all, you know?

Happy Easter. In JULY. (And now it's already August, whoops!)

4 year interview

2011-08-02T15:24:00.000-07:00

I think I did this with Mason when he was three. I've seen little templates for yearly interviews with your kids and I love the idea, so the other day we sat down during nap time and got to business.

Age: 4

Favorites:

food: grilled cheese
cereal: cinnamon toast crunch
drink: orange juice
veggie: carrot which was immediately followed by "no!! wait!! i mean grapes" so sticking to carrots..
toy: "I think a ball? Or wait, maybe a train?" For the record Mason doesn't really play with either balls or trains often. Three minutes further in to the interview he was SURE "Buzz Lightyear is my favorite toy. I just know it"
game: uno moo
tv show: wow wow wubzy
restaurant: the tower
holiday: "Valentine's and Halloween. Because I love candy so much. Can I pick more holidays? Like all of them". clearly we like to celebrate.
animal: horse
color: pink and red
movie: "Happy Feet! And Dinosaur Feet (??)"
sport to play: "basketball and soccerball" AKA just soccer.

Questions asked by mama -- Answers by Mason.

If you could change your name, what would it be?

MAX. Or maybe Joe.
He said Max so quickly it was like he was 100% sure, although maybe someone should explain to him that all siblings can't have one name.

What do you want to be when you grow up?

A zookeeper.

He's on to something...you know, living in THIS house and all.

Who is your best friend?

Gracie & Piper.

What do you love about each person in your family?

I love Daddy because he takes me to see Shamu. I love you Mommy because you take me to school. I really like Max, because I love him. I love all my family.

And what about Alexander?

Oh yea! I love him more than I love Max. Oh my gosh, I swear he said this THE MINUTE I asked him about Alexander. No hesitation. Followed by "REALLY, in *real life*". In case you thought the rest of these answers weren't in real life....? Alexander is sleepy and snuggly and chubby, Max just doesn't listen. Amen.

Who is the coolest person on the planet? *said with lots of enthusiam and hope that my name would follow*
*eyes roll* Soooooo easy - MY DADDY!

What makes you happy?

When I'm playing with my daddy. (At this point I wanted to lead the answer elsewhere, because seriously, IS THIS A HOW AWESOME IS MY DADDY INTERVIEW???? Apparently). I however, refrained and these answers are straight up.

What makes you sad?

When no one plays with me.

Where would you like to go on vacation?

The beach! (We've been three times in the last hmm 60 days? Obviously, not enough beach).

What are your wishes for the rest of the year?

That I had a car and that I could stay up way later. And in breaking news, Mason

Say what???

2011-07-27T09:39:00.000-07:00

This is really a just for mama post. After all the whole purpose of the blog is to remember these bitties in all their glory. Things were hearing a lot of in this house.

Max

Max does this crazy like "HUH"? I need to capture it on film. He says it about 50 times ~~a day~~ an hour. No matter how many times we repeat ourselves to clarify what we are trying to tell him we get the same response. HUH? Its high pitched and hilarious.

At any given moment, Max might bust in to song as well. His song of choice - Happy Birthday. Except it sounds a lot more like appy bow-doe. The words are a little unclear, but the tune is perfection. He hums it, just right.

I was sure, absolutely, that one of Max's first words would be Mason. Or some cute variation of his brother's name. He admires all things Mason, yet two years in he refuses to attempt to say his name. He calls him brother, except it sounds nothing really like brother - more like baby. "bay bay". But it is for sure what he calls Mason, no doubt.

And in classic two year old fashion were hearing a whole 'lotta NO and whole more "I DO" (die do). You do it baby, you do it.

Mason

Mason has this weird obsession (lately) with the middle. Not just any middle, but every middle, and "the really middle" . Yeah don't ask, I don't know. Generally he is really gentle with his new baby brother and looks out for Max when were out and about, but he is not above pushing either, or both, brothers out of the way to make sure he is snuggled in the middle. Natrually, the middle IS the best. We can thank Oreo cookies for that phenomenon. I'm not really sure when it started or better yet why it started, but it is big news around here.

And like all children, it's also big news about "who has the most" and "what's cooler" and "whose is better". This ~~usually~~ ALWAYS happens throughout our day. I especially love when he throws me a curveball toughie. "Mommy, what's cooler: staying home and taking a nap (because he's smart, he knows this is Max's afternoon destiny) or going to the movies with my cousins and Grandpa?" See, toughie. Like, hmmm, let me think for oh, five seconds. I'm just thankful (that for now) Max can't sense the gloating and sarcasm that this pint sized four year old exudes. And ak-shully (as Mason says it) I think I'll vote for a nap. Because that'd be awesome in the next century guys.

Say what? That's what (is being said in these parts).

July 4th.

2011-07-11T19:47:00.000-07:00

I love the holidays. My family makes the holidays that much more incredible. Having kids makes it infinitely more exciting. I'm pretty sure I've mentioned that like forty times on this very blog, but I'm laying it out there once again.

As most of our summer, we spent this holiday lakeside. We attempted to withstand the heat by consuming fried food and margaritas. Surprisingly, it worked. The firework show didn't start until about 9:30, which was approximately three hours past bedtime. Which was a joy for us all.

It was totally worth it.

Alexander even watched, then fell fast asleep, even amongst the craziness. I thought the loud noise may bother him. Then I remembered that he lives with Mason. And Max. So, basically the fireworks were like a lullaby. That's right, the baby-whom-never-sleeps, slept through fireworks. Ironic.

And what is a summer holiday without some soft serve? Seriously.

I can't wait for many more Fourth's spent up at the lake. Devouring ice cream and staying up way past bedtime. I get all warm and fuzzy just thinking about the memories we are making.

A year ago.

2011-07-11T14:00:00.000-07:00

A year ago today, I found out that our sweet Alexander was on his way. It went so fast, but yet it seems like last July was an eternity ago. I remember thinking it'd be forever until March would come (I wasn't totally sure I was due in March but knew the ballpark time frame). March has come and gone. And Mr. AQ is here. He fits in to our family so perfectly. His sweet smiles and enthusiastic babbling melts me. It was only a year ago that the notion of a new baby had been introduced and it seemed impossible, unfathomable and far, far away, but I already cannot imagine my life and our family without him in it.

Alexander you are hands down the best surprise I've ever received. Normally, I don't even like surprises. But oh little baby I love you to the moon and back.

2 {Max}

2011-06-23T14:36:00.000-07:00

Max,

Oh sweet boy. You turned two this morning. I can't even believe it happened so quickly. The minute your floppy little body landed on my chest when you were born, I knew one day you'd laugh and run. I knew one day you'd turn a year old. And then you'd be two. I knew it would happen. But as always the year flew by and it happened a little too quickly. Your cheeks have slimmed over the last few months, your face is fighting to look like a boy not a baby, but your hands and your delicious thighs are clinging to more familiar tunes of toddler hood. And for once, I'm not complaining about all things chubby. Last night I procrastinated laying you down, bedtime was nearly two hours late - I was trying to avoid the obvious. But the time kept ticking and morning came. And two, well two years old, still happened.

You're language is erupting. It seems like each day brings a new word. One of my favorite things about you is the way you talk, your lips are plump and simply adorable. The way you purse them together to make words melts me. We've been practicing Happy Birthday with you and now it's your favorite song. I'm pretty sure you think it's a game. Immediately following the last line of the chorus, you begin blowing. Imaginary candles? Sure why not after all it is your birthday.

The minute you wake up in the morning you are giggling. You clutch to your blanket and still suck your thumb, but the minute we arrive at the bottom of the stairs you start asking for breakfast. Your breakfast of choice - COOKIES. You love yogurt and cereal too. Most morning you lick your bowl dry. A foodie in the making.

You have a new found love for swimming. I guess that would come natural for a summer baby. Some mornings you get all excited and bring me your swimsuit and loudly repeat "mem-ming, mem-ming!" Luckily for you we do go swimming most everyday.

You are spirited. Determined. Full of life. God forbid someone try and assist you in getting down from your chair or out of your car seat. The phrase of the month - "DIE DO". Obviously, you got the memo that two means independence. You are ready to move out and start live on your own. Most days you refuse any sort of help, which leads to backward shoes and shorts, major bedhead and a face encrusted in donut icing.

You love splashing during bath time, snuggling during nap time, and laughing pretty much all the time. You have a special little spunk in your step that makes you all the more YOU.

I can't believe you've been here twenty four whole months, yet I can't remember life without you. Two years gone and many more to come. My birthday wish for you is lots more giggles, many more sleepy slumbers, heaps of sloppy kisses, hundreds more brotherly quarrels and most of all that you keep marching to the beat of your own drummer.

I love you more then I knew was possible. I love you with every ounce of my being and every beat of my heart. I love you to the moon and back. Always and forever.

Happy second birthday baby boy!

Dentist trip.

2011-05-06T10:44:00.000-07:00

We had our regular dentist cleaning trip this week. I took both big boys. We survived. And I even got some pictures. I know, I know, shocking.

{Mason was that thrilled...and then bribed with $1 to smile, but of course Max looked away *sigh*}

This was Max's first trip. He surprised me and did GREAT. He kept showing me his pearly whites all day after. He's a toothbrush lover and so his goodie bag including a new one was like a bag of GOLD.

masonisms.

2011-05-06T10:36:00.000-07:00

The other day I was rushed getting ready for Mason's school Easter egg hunt. I had no more than ten minutes to get both Alexander and myself presentable, grab Mason's basket, load Max and be out the door. I slid my closet door open and lo and behold a maxi dress. PERFECT. Maybe it will look like I haven't been bathed in newborn spit up and showered this week. Mason anxiously walked in the room to ask when we were leaving. He did a double take and asked, "Mommy, why are you wearing that shirt? Are you getting married today?" Apparently I should probably try to get dressed in something besides a t shirt or pajamas in the next six weeks.

Mason had a huge growth spurt recently so almost all of his clothes aren't fitting. I took the opportunity to take him shopping, just the two of us. He loved it. He insisted on picking out all his own clothes. For the first time I had little to no say in his wardrobe. Thankfully - homeboy has some style. As we were checking out at Gap he grabbed some really adorable aviator style glasses and declared "Oh my gosh Mommy, I have GOT TO HAVE THESE". Later, we were trying on swimsuits, we'd already picked one, but I saw another really cute one (you can never have too many swimsuits!!) and instead of going all the way back to the dressing rooms I told him to just hurry and try it on right there. He obliged and undressed himself down to some cute Spiderman undies - a lady passed by with her daughter and Mason looked at me with red cheeks and said "AWKWARD". I was dying of laughter. He's quite the sass.

After a long day of boating Michael had jokingly told Mason he was SO hungry he was going to eat Max. Instead of being sad, confused or slightly worried for his younger brother Mason was so excited to eat him also. When they walked back in to the condo at the lake he exclaimed proudly "Mommy start up the fire, were gonna grill up Max and EAT HIM". He was DEAD SERIOUS. I even had to tell him that Michael was just kidding. He pouted and said "Please let's grill him up Mommy!!!" I agree - Max is DELICIOUSLY adorable, but we will NOT be eating our little brother today Mase. Sorry kiddo.

Mason's class had their Easter lunch/party a few weeks ago. I took all three of the boys so it was a little hectic, because Max runs amok like the classroom is his palace. I recently learned (from our Fiesta party outing) that it wasn't really realistic to have Max walking, while I fed Alexander next to the parking lot. I came prepared this time, Max in stroller and a bottle ready for baby. Towards the end of the lunch and egg hunt, Alexander got a little fussy so I got his bottle out and started feeding him. Mason - the proud big brother he is - started telling all his little friends about his new baby and how he cries a lot, sometimes he laughs (but he really doesn't) and how he eats ALL THE TIME (he really does). Out of nowhere Mason's raspy voice started to get a little louder, a little louder, and then boom in full on yell he exclaims "...and sometimes my mommy feeds that baby with her NIPPLES". Inside voice Mase, INSIDE VOICE.

i never thought.

2011-04-27T10:24:00.000-07:00

I always had notions of the kind of mother I would be. High hopes or perhaps false pretensions of what motherhood really entailed. I never thought I would be that mom.

I never thought I'd have to leave the grocery store mid meltdown. I never thought I'd be limited to the three restaurants in town with playscapes and sandboxes - because surely my kids would be well mannered and sit down to eat anywhere I chose to dine. You know because that was the kind of mom I was going to be. The reality is very different then the picture I'd conjured up of what parenting was all about. Much harder yet much more rewarding. And you know what? The meltdowns and the chaos of eating out, well it's part of the gig, and I never thought it would come so easy, be a new normal.

I never thought I would have a sassy mouthed four year old. I never thought I'd let my firstborn co-sleep for just under three years. Surely, I would not have a three year old who still loved his pacifier. I mean that wasn't the mom I was going to be. I never thought I'd have all boys or three babies in just four years. I never thought I'd let my kids afternoon dip in the pool count as a bath. And if the pool wasn't enough - I never thought I'd use baby wipes to finish up bath time. I never thought I'd choose v-necks over trendy tops.

I never thought I'd give my kids lots of processed, sugary foods, but damn it sometimes a Capri Sun and a handful of M&M's is all that is getting us through the afternoon. I never thought I'd laugh manically at a tantrum, on the verge of losing all sanity. I never thought I'd serve cereal for dinner. I never knew dinner could be at 5:30 pm or tossed on the floor within thirty seconds. I never thought I'd cook three meals, because NO ONE WANTS TO EAT VEGETABLE STIRFRY.

I never thought I'd buy matching clothes for my kids. I never thought I'd let my child leave the house in one rain boots and one neon orange Croc, because for the love of God we have to get to the preschool play before it ends. I never thought I would never again be on time to any given event. Ever. I never thought I'd hype up the Easter bunny or have to explain the tooth fairy. I never thought I'd love staring in to the magical little twinkle of a little boy's eyes as he retold his encounter of waking up to hidden eggs and a Slinky Dog.

I never thought I'd sit my kids in front of trashy, mindless cartoons. I never thought my kids would slip out a curse word in public. I never thought I'd have a toddler roaming a restaurant with no pants or maybe topless. I never thought I'd enjoy animated movies so much, because they come with holding a soft little man's hand sharing popcorn. I never thought I'd bargain with my kids. Surely, what I said would go. I never thought I'd cave to their begging and fit throwing. I never thought I'd say "If I count to three, before you do xyz....". I never thought I'd actually be counting ALL DAY LONG.

I never thought the floorboard of my car would be smothered in a trail of crunched goldfish and cheerios. I never thought my fridge would be covered in magnets that randomly moo or quack at me. I never thought I'd be the one picking up fifteen legos or forty eight randomly scattered animal figurines, because the kind of mom I was going to be would have her children cleaning their OWN messes. I never thought I'd love the sight of baby toes, the smell of newborn skin and the bustle of a full day.

I knew I would love my children. I knew I would do what I had to do to parent them.I knew I would be slightly biased and bursting with pride in every small feat they accomplished. But, I never in my wildest dreams thought I would love being a mom so much. I just never thought I would be that mom.

our weekend: snapshot edition

2011-04-19T11:59:00.000-07:00

We had an action packed weekend. It was so much fun. We celebrated Fiesta and even though we've lived here pretty much forever, we've never taken Mason to ANY Fiesta events. So 2011 marks his first of many crazy parades outings. He really liked it, it was pretty hot, but surprisingly cool.

Max really loved it, I hesitated on my decision on whether to take him or not but ended up deciding he could join us. He jammed out to every high school band that played, he dug in to his (and everyone elses) snow cone - with his hands. Mason begged for a "chicken wing" which was really a turkey leg, but in all my brilliance I forgot cash. Actually I brought just enough cash for a cheap plastic sword...yup, just one. You know my car ride home was barrels of fun. MEMO TO SELF: TWO OF EVERYTHING (someday I suppose it'll be THREE).

Mason's school parade & pinata festivities. Even Max got a chance to hit the pinata. He made the most of his two swings, thrusting the stick with every ounce of energy his little body possessed. Apparently Alexander is not amused with this Fiesta business.

We swam.

Grilled.

Then swam again.

We ate lunch in our pj's.

We cracked open cocoons, to collect red berries. This is a very serious occupation when you are four years old. Or so it appears.

Some of us just slept the entire weekend. Okay, really he doesn't sleep that much considering he's a newborn. Or a very small infant. He's more alert and awake more hours of the day then either of the big boys were. He must know if he's asleep he'll miss out on the craziness. And there is a lot of crazy. Obviously.

We played scrabble, sipped Sangria and ventured out to NIOSA (which was quite an adventure).

And then...you guessed it...we swam. SOME MORE.

{1 month}

2011-04-18T10:46:00.000-07:00

Alexander,

Wow. It's been an entire month since you were born. It was a quick month sweet guy. You slept a lot of it away, mostly during the days, keeping me up most of the nights. Your at least ten pounds, most of which I believe is being held hostage in your cheeks. Everywhere we go, people stop to comment on your thick head of hair.

You have two dimples. A pair of pouty lips too die for - your bottom lip, oh man, it's going to win you basically anything you want in life. EVER. You legs are so skinny and long, your feet are huge, you hands are soft as can be. The only thing you prefer to sleeping is eating. Though your constant want and need to be fed is taking a lot of my sleep away (and really, one thing I need is a good night's sleep - ask anyone) I love holding you closely while you eat. I take this time to examine your every feature. I study your lips and chin as you suck, you smack your little lips and every single time you eat you lay your hand right between my breasts. You take deep breaths and I've memorized the rhythm of each inhale and exhale.

I have tried to, and am succeeding in savoring (almost) every minute of your newborness. It is fleeting. Each morning when I wake up, a little bit of the newness of your face fades. I'm not sure when a newborn technically becomes an infant, but I think we are about to embark on that milestone. I am so excited to watch you grow, to watch you form a strong bond with your brothers, but I am aware that you are my last chance to relish the firsts. The first smile, the first laugh, the first time you roll over. With your first moments I will be closing a chapter of babyhood, the very last baby. I want to remember the way you clench your fists when you eat or get anxious, the way your ears lay flatly against your head, the way your big toe nails grows in raggedly. I want to remember it all - every detail.

Sometimes you laugh in your sleep. It starts with just a little smirk, a tease of what is about to come. Then the whimper, the giggle and alas, the smile. You flash both dimples and as quickly as the smile was flaunted, you wipe it away, and silence falls over your face. I'm sure there is some super smart scientific explanation to why tiny newborns do this and maybe it's just involuntary. But I don't want to hear it; it makes my heart want to explode. The sight and sound of you giggling is worth missing sleep for. And trust me, have I mentioned, we are missing some sleep.

Speaking of sleep - you refuse to fall in to a deep slumber, unless your being held or on your belly. You're my very first belly sleeper. And it's against all the pediatrician and parenting rules, this belly sleeping business. But you don't care about any of that. You are a rule breaker.

I'm all over the place in this letter. Not sure what I want to tell you. Except, that you are wonderful. You are adorable. You love to snuggle and although I am not a fan of cuddling, I will cherish every cuddle you will give me. I will nuzzle your soft, plump cheeks. And I will kiss you a thousand times every single day. I want you to know that even though you are not my first baby, you came with a novelty all of your own. You are special to us in the same way both your brothers are, but in a different way too.

I want you to know that in one short, very quick month, you have completely won me over. I love you with every breath in my body. I am so glad you are all mine.

Happy one month Alexander. Thank you for every snuggle, every unintentional giggle, and mostly for cherished and savored moments you've given me. I know we'll have many more firsts together, but they won't be these moments, we'll never have these days back, and while they've been busy and incredibly lazy - they've been fabulous.

Loving you always.
Mama

easter bunny [2011].

2011-04-12T18:42:00.000-07:00

So last year, I kind of promised myself I wouldn't attempt an Easter bunny picture. Not because the kids reacted badly - last year they were all smiles, giddy and sat patiently while I snapped a few good pictures. Max was only about 10 months old, so basically wherever he was sat he stayed. This year, well, to put it mildly NOT SO MUCH.

I should have expected it after his Santa 2010 fiasco. Max is definitely not a fan of the holiday idols. I guess the idea of a giant bunny is a little frightening. Or maybe it's that whack ass smile all wiped across his face. What the hell could possibly be so funny, to a bunny??

Perhaps what is SO funny is this spectacle.

Exhibit A -My children sans "banchee"... I mean, Max.

Exhibit B- Mason and his death grip/choke hold on Max. I did ask him to hold his brother tight. Can you SEE the intensity in that kid's eyes? He took me very, very seriously.

Exhibit C - Max. Just all of it. His reaction to the bunny was pretty hysterical, but I especially love how he's looking AT the bunny, while screamign and reaching for, well anyone else who would take him probably. And that wild, mop of hair. Yeah, he's pretty awesome.

Exhibit D - Alexander slept through it all. I need an Easter bunny material blanket, because home slice is NOT sleeping like that in my house. It almost makes me want to hop in his lap, scoop up my baby and fall asleep snuggling his delicious little self.

But, really I am so glad we went. I'd rather have a picture like this - a real memory then them all fake smiling, sitting patiently. Because that's not how we roll these days, ever. And there I am laughing, but probably really frustrated just wanting Max to sit still for ONE. SECOND. OF THE DAY, really wanting to get a cute, nice picture to show off. But, as usual my plan failed. This is REAL. A real memory. That is keeping me laughing daily.

lake season

2011-04-07T09:02:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again. Lake season. Time for the boat, the tube, the pools, the palygrounds, the delicious lodge margaritas. Time for a tan. Time for the lake. Our family's very favorite season. We'll be spending lots and lots of our weekends up at the lake. Playing, laughing, soaking up the sun. BECAUSE ITS HERE - IT IS LAKE SEASON!!!

B is for...

2011-04-06T12:29:00.000-07:00

Baseball!

Ok, really, T-Ball. Mase started T-ball two weeks ago and can I just say ONE THING - a four year old in baseball pants, oh be still my beating heart. *swoon* It may just be (one of) the cutest things I have ever laid my eyes on. Not only is the attire super delicious, Mason loves it and he's quite the stud on the field. He seems to be best at batting, but runs and slides a lot when it's time to play the field as well.

At his first game every time a family member would arrive to cheer him on, he would quickly and eagerly run to the sidelines and show everyone his batting gloves (he is the only four year old with batting gloves, because someone's daddy went overboard with the gear...) and hat. Then of course he did what he does best - flashed us his flawless smile, made some silly faces and ran back to play. I think this might be his sport!

Big Boy Bike!!

He actually got one for Christmas, but it never really held any interest. First of all it was a blue bike, I mean I should have known to get green. Also, it didn't have pedals OR training wheels. It was a super cool developmentally appropriate bike where you learn to properly balance (you learn to glide then ride). Umm, yeah all that jazz wasn't flying for Mason. He wanted to RIDE and not GLIDE and ASAP. So we set out to Toys R Us and Mason picked a new, very green big boy bike!! He loves it and rode it for a whole hour the first day he got it.

He proudly gave his "little boy bike" to Max. I think he was pretty excited too. Except the peanut can't reach the pedals quite yet. Within ten minutes Max was fighting and whining to ride the big boy bike. He admired (and looked on jealously) Mason flying up and down our street. He ended up settling for running along side Mason all afternoon with the happiest belly laugh I've heard.

Baby toes!

Oh who doesn't love baby feet? We kiss these little toes daily. Maybe even hourly. Alexander has big feet and long skinny toes and I want to eat them up!

Boots!

All Max wants to do is walk around in rain boots. ALL.DAY. EVERY.DAY. If you know Max, you know he gets his way. So, boots it is.

B is the letter of the week around here.

Alexander Quinn.

2011-04-04T07:28:00.000-07:00

He's here! He's here! Our newest baby boy has arrived and we are all head over heels.

Alexander Quinn arrived March 16 - at 2:34 pm.

His birth was the quickest yet. He was born with a head full of black hair which has earned him (lovingly by mama) the nickname fuzzy wuzzy. He really is the fuzziest little newborn on the block. And perhaps the most darling. He has a temper like his daddy and lets us all know when he isn't satisfied. His cry is pitiful and his lips are luscious.

Both of his big brothers are totally taken with him - Maximo especially. He wants to hold him ALL day long. He walks around our house saying "baby" nonstop. It's really cute.

Mason really likes to hold him and tells everyone that his baby's name is "Alexander" after a few minutes, he'll then tell them "but you can call him Alex...or Zander". We do not ever call him Zander, but that's Mason for ya. Creative and crazy. Mason constantly asks if he can kiss him. Between the two he's getting enough loving and an early lesson in never being left alone.

He sleeps all day. Parties all night. Has the sweetest pair of pouty lips that I spend a large quantity of time kissing. His tongue is perfection, he smacks it constantly and is one of the noisiest babies I've ever met. Every single sound he makes is hilarious and adorable. Can you tell we love us some teenys?

After months of debating and not agreeing we chose the most beautiful name. A name that holds great meaning, a name that shines. Shines as brightly as our new little man. Alexander Quinn.

We feel so lucky, so blessed, and so happy he's arrived. Safely, loved and fitting right in. Just like we knew he would. The best little brother we could ask for. Alexander, welcome to our family. We are so glad you are ours. You complete us sweet baby.

Alexander, we love you so! Happy birthday nugget!!

what were up to.

2011-03-11T12:11:00.000-08:00

Enjoying the sunshine.

Chalk and bubbles.

{Mason does most of the writing and drawing and chalking. Max is our chalk taste tester. Yum.}

More bubbles.

And more chalk.

Baby laundry.

Little Gym and swim class. Movies and popcorn. Sometimes we stay in our pajamas until it's time to get in to a new pair. Sometimes we watch cartoons or movies all day long.

Eating as many ice pops as humanly possible in each sitting.

We are just soaking up our time together. Enjoying the days as they drag or fly by. Together. Anxiously awaiting our newest little man's arrival. Anticipating him, hoping he doesn't make us wait too much longer, but just long enough.

Our days are uneventful, but our weeks are full of fun.

love me some max.

2011-03-10T10:51:00.001-08:00

Oh Max - you are such a little pistol. You've earned yourself the hilariously fitting nickname "train wreck" from your Papa. You are a non-stop tornado. Lately I've caught myself reveling in your awesomeness. I constantly find myself thinking wow, this baby is a bad ass. I tell your father numerous times a day, how comical you make the afternoons. I love me some Max.

I mostly love you just because you are you. You make loving you pretty easy. But my favorite things, oh how could I ever start to count them.

I love your ability to be completely filthy five minutes after waking up perfectly clean. Any given meal time or playground outing pretty much guarantees a mess. I really don't like dirty kids, but you make dirty look good. It's only a matter of time at the breakfast table before yogurt is slung, oatmeal is run through you bed head and the fruit is on the floor. But I love that about you.

Your hands attract dirt at the playground. I really love the way your chubby hands meet your soft forearms to create a perfectly, delicious roll. And yes, I find myself wiping that roll clean of dirt almost hourly. You are a mess. A beautiful, playful, terror of a mess. And I love it.

I love the way you repeat the words mommy and daddy all day long. I've heard my name called out eleventy billion times before noon. You bounce through the house, waddling, running a tad off kilter, shrieking. Rehearsing in a sing songy tune - mommyyyyy, mommy, mommyyyyy. And if I didn't love your sugar coated voice I may have gone crazy by now.

I love the way you firmly tell me NO NO, loudly and sure of yourself. After you throw a train directly at your brother's head. I love the way your purse your lips when you discipline. I love the stern look in your eyes. The uncertainty of what will happen after your naughty little episode. It's so Max.

I love that bedtime kisses always guarantees a little tongue slippage. I really just love your tongue. The way you use it to say 'turtle' and fifteen other words that I've yet to decipher. You often use it to lick up a cheerio or goldfish you've placed on the floor. After each snack is successfully eaten you look up proudly and clap and giggle. Quite the character.

I love the way you fight a diaper change, putting on shoes and clothes and brushing your hair. Which is why most days you sport the birthday suit and a mangy mess of curls. Then some days all you want to wear is shoes while your naked. A perfect little train wreck.

I love the way you have to carry three things with you at all times. A train, a book, a ball - it really doesn't matter, so long as there are three of them. I've tried to convince you that two would be exponentially easier, since you know, you have TWO HANDS. I love the way you stubbornly lash out and insist that you carry all three. Maneuvering that the third object in your hand securely, never letting go. Determination.

I love the way you say cheese when you see my phone or camera come out. Automatically assuming I'm headed for a picture of you. I love the way you sit still for a book but not a movie. I love the way you cry at the pantry right after being fed. I love the way you stand before you throw things - your like a little ninja. I love the way you cock your head back to laugh from your belly. Oh, how I love your laugh. Lately you cover your sweet mouth with both your hands, tilt sideways and giggle for days. Over any little thing. You rarely do it unless I'm watching - it's like you know it's too cute to be done in solitude.

I love so much about you little man. You are one awesome baby.

It's March!

2011-03-02T12:16:00.000-08:00

Me: "Mason today is March 1st. Yay! Do you know what this means?"
(implying this is the month the baby will be here - thinking excitement will ensue in full force)
Mason: "Yes. We can wear Crocs everyday now. It's time for Crocs. March is for Crocs."
Me: "Ummm...yes, Crocs. And your new baby brother's birthday will be this month too! Isn't that exciting?"
Mason: "Yup. Better get him some Crocs though".

Awesome. I never thought I'd buy in to the Croc frenzy. I really never liked the way Crocs looked on anyone, but if parents liked Crocs for their kids and themselves so be it. However, so long as I had the power to choose my children's wardrobes I wouldn't dare buy a pair of them, especially not a real pair that was $22.00. Yeah, right. Then Mason saw a pair while running an errand - he must have been just two years old. They were Lighting McQueen Crocs. If there was anything worse than Crocs, it was licensed character Crocs. He loved them and I love him, so I bought them.

It's been all downhill since. We now have a rainbow of Crocs. Mason has them in almost every color, they are one pair of shoes Max doesn't fight tooth and nail to get on, they are a prized possession in this house. So happy March people, it's Croc season.

rodeo and bday party.

2011-02-21T12:58:00.001-08:00

Last weekend, before sick-fest 2011 struck us, we were super busy. We went to the rodeo, which Mason insists is really "the radio". The main attraction....pig races. And a turkey leg. Mason and Max's favorite parts, respectively speaking. Of course, Max's favorite part was the turkey leg. We almost tried the chicken fried BACON. But we resisted the urge. Mason would live on bacon if we let him, I'm afraid if I let him taste it fried, we'd never hear the end of it.

We pigged out on Frito pies, homemade kettle corn, and snow cones! Delicious treats all around. The boys wore fun cowboy hats, but stood out like sore thumbs. We are not country folk, yo.

The weather was gorgeous. Mason rode his first pony! Well I think it was his first pony ride. If not it's at least the first documented ride, therefore, I can claim it as his first. We passed on letting Max ride it, even though he really loves horses. Second to elephants (and maybe dogs) it's his favorite animal. It's my favorite animal noise he makes too, the way he smacks his little tongue against the roof of his mouth and shakes his head - perfection. So he did what little brothers do, watched jealously. GIDDY UP.

His party was total insanity. He loved every minute of it. I'm not sure when this little man got so many friends - but there were babies, toddlers, preschoolers GALORE. Jumping, running, screaming, hyper as can be through the entire two hour party. We sent everyone home with some of the birthday boys favorite goodies
, gummy worms and bubbles! I mean who are we kidding, those are some of everyone's faves, right??

He really wanted a monster party and I thought the theme would be precious and an easy task to tackle. It proved semi difficult, but we had fun little cupcake toppers, an awesome cake courtesy of Ita, the cutest shirts EVER and a monster of a time. Okay, that was incredibly cheesy.

The party and the rodeo were some highlights of February. But beware because next year, I might sneak some fried bacon.

Four.

2011-02-15T11:56:00.000-08:00

Mason,

Oh my sweet little Mase. Today you turn four years old. Your face has said it's goodbyes to any hint of baby. All things toddler are out the window. Your voice holds on tightly to its raspy edge, but maybe that's got nothing to do with your age, maybe that's just you. That you you are is so wonderful too.

You are still full of spunk, liveliness, yet you've yet to outgrow your timidness. When I was little I was shy too and I still am, you get that from me. You get lots of qualities from me. And from your dad. But I think we get the best things from YOU. You've given us a lifetime of joy in just four years. My stomach hurts almost daily from laughing so hard at your wit. Your curiosity and cleverness amaze me. Your smile melts my whole world. Your hands still feel as soft as they did when I touched them for the first time. Your cheeks do too, but each year a little bit of their chubbiness has disappeared. This year it's all gone. Those once chubby cheeks are now slender and chiseled, the face of a boy. A happy, charismatic, lovely little boy.

You might be four and the biggest brother we have, but you still love a sweet kiss to your forehead. Yes, you're growing up and sleeping all alone in a big boy bed, but you would trade it for cuddling between my arms any night of the week. You can swing from monkey bar to monkey bar and scale up any playground structure with ease, but you still enjoy a bubble bath. I'm trying to breathe you in and enjoy every tender moment you give me - each kiss you don't make me steal, each hug you generously give, each cry for Mommy, each moment your hand slips in to mine. Because I know that any day now you may think your too big for those things. I love your innocence. I love your youthfulness. I love all the moments you give that acknowledge your growing, but not fully grown.

Four years really isn't a long time you know? It goes by just like the snap of two fingers. But four years is enough time to have totally won me over. You are mine, I am yours, forever.

I hope your birthday is filled with laughter and bliss. I hope your day is magical and charming. I hope that your whole year brings you the comfort, joy and satisfaction you bring me every minute of everyday. I hope you stay as sweet as that donut you ate for breakfast. But most of all, I hope that you stay, wonderful you.

Happy birthday baby boy.

Loving you more than a million sprinkles,
Mama

snow day!

2011-02-13T15:13:00.000-08:00

Okay, okay, I know the amount of snow we had is laughable. But in Texas, any snow is exciting. It wasn't even half and inch and there was barely enough to scoop and pound together for snowballs...we still had fun.

The night before it "snowed" the weather channel was all in a frenzy that it may really snow. I didn't believe it and figured we'd get some icicles if that. But I did mention to Mason that his school might be canceled and when he woke up there might be snow. "Might be" is basically a code for saying ITS GOING TO SNOW. LOTS AND LOTS OF SNOW (you know when your almost 4). Good thing mother nature delivered - because he was oh so splendidly delighted to wake up to a little frosting on his grass!

Mason has basically no snow gear. So we layered him in about fifteen thermal style long sleeve tees and put him in the only water proof jacket he owned - it happened to be a Gap windbreaker that is probably more suitable for a breezy night at the coast. Oh well, it worked! And this kid LOVES HIM SOME GLOVES. He calls them all mittens and he'd wear them in the summertime if we let him. Rain boots totally double for snow boots, right? It's all about making it work.

Not only do we not have snow clothes, we have no sleds. Obviously. So the next best thing was a skin board. Mason "snow surfed" a whooping one time. His butt and the pavement became quick friends and that was that. I happened to catch the action shot, only to start laughing hysterically .5 seconds later. I'm a mean mom, I know. It really was kind of funny. And ridiculous that we were skin boarding on snow. That's like asking for another broken bone.

Mason and Michael stayed outside playing a little longer. I quickly ran back inside to my bed and cozied up. I captured the memories, no need to stand around like a fool under dressed. Max slept through it all. I think he would've gladly snuggled mama instead in exchange for frozen hands. Unless it snows again this year, we'll never know!

before there were two.

2011-01-27T13:04:00.000-08:00

Our family is about to add a new member and I'm starting to get a little anxious on how it's going to affect the boys. Deep down I know they'll both adjust, love their new baby brother, and things will go fairly smoothly. If they don't I know that the boys will likely never remember this transition down the road. Yet, I find myself thinking about it a lot, more and more the closer we get to the impending birth. And yet, we still have a full month and a half before our new little guy even gets here. It's hard to believe that I'll have three little guys. Three. Before there were three there were just two. But before there were two, there was just one.

I remember this anxiety and the unknown. Before Max's birth, I was unsure of how Mason would adapt. Truthfully, I was a little unsure that I could adapt. Wary that I could take on the task of raising two children while loving them both with all my heart. And really until you have two children it's impossible to believe - it's exactly like explaining to an expectant mother how much she really will love her child the minute their slippery little self is laid in her arms. The minute his or her eyes try to open and glare up at you. But you do, you just do. But explaining it and believing it before it happens is like listening to someone swear to you they've seen Big Foot. Right, that's gonna happen. So while I know the minute he arrives, my heart will grow a little bigger, and love will fill the room, I'm still wary and still feeling a little guilty. And then you keep reminding yourself about the one you do have. Or the two. Because before you add more, there are still the other two. The two you love so unbelievably much.

The transition from one to two was kind of earth shattering. At first. Looking back it seems so silly and dramatic, but it was an adjustment that is for sure. I kept thinking how much easier it was to run to the grocery store, to go to a park...to pee. Alone. And I was right it was easier. Just like I'm sure two will be easier than three. But before there were two, when there was just one, the love was there, oh yes, let me tell you it was. But it's grown. Two - fold.

So in the meantime I'm trying to soak up everyday with just the two of them. Knowing that in a few more weeks there will be three. Three of them. It frightens me, excites me. And often baffles me. Three. Two. There used to be just one. And oh, what a special one he is.

Everything about him is special. Before there was one I wouldn't have believed the love I could have for someone I'd never met. Someone I'd only known a brief minute would totally win me over, forever.

But he is just as special. His smile and his soft little hands are especially special. He wasn't the first, but that doesn't make him any less mine. He is all mine. And I love him entirely, with every beat of my heart. So much. In fact before there were two I would've laughed if you told me how special he would be, just as special, though different from his brother.

And before there were two, I wouldn't have believed it was possible to love another baby as much as I loved my first. Before there was two I'd think you were crazy. But I was the one who was crazy. Crazy wrong. Crazy in love with not just one, but two, and soon there will be three. Three to snuggle, three to worry about day in and day out. Three noses to wipe, three foreheads to kiss goodnight, three little belly's to tickle. Three, and they are all mine.

And I know he will be as special as the other two. He might not be the first, but he will be my last and that makes him especially special.

Basketball.

2011-01-27T12:20:00.000-08:00

Mason started basketball this winter. He absolutely loves it. He was quite hesitant with soccer so I'm glad he loved this so much.

The long shorts and fancy baller shoes are just too much. It's so hilarious and precious to watch. Especially the big grin on his face when he scores. He made two baskets his very first games, was incredibly proud of it and we celebrated with ice cream at 10:30 that morning. Hey, it's NEVER too early for some frozen custard smothered in sprinkles. At least when your three and a half.

He dribbled. He ran his little heart out. And he laughed the entire hour. He's had about four games now and his team is pretty good. I think his team is the only one of the entire league that's stacked with ALL boys. Most teams we've played have a little girl or two or three, but not his. It makes for an interesting dynamic and they all pal around.

So even though he's kind of short - it looks like so far basketball may be his sport. Watch out Shaq. Ok - I realize I'm being ridiculous and that he isn't even four (YET) and this is only his second sport he's EVER tried. But I'm biased and he rocked the court people.

baby update.

2011-01-19T11:50:00.000-08:00

Time keeps passing by. Slow some weeks. So fast it's all a blur the next. We have just about eight weeks to go until baby 3's due date. I can taste March it is so close, but yet, so far. It's funny how it seems to drag the last few weeks of every pergnancy. I should stop complaining though I've had it easy and to think i only have eight full weeks to go (at the most) is awesome. I'm getting a little anxious to meet my newest boy and kiss his already plump cheeks.

We had our last sneak peek at our little man today. The sonogram was awesome - aren't they all? He flashed us a smile a few times. A smile that melts hearts people. Baby is no fool he knows how to woo his mama. He looked kind of bald, but our technician promised us he had some lashes on his that were killer. Just like his big brothers it seems!

He appeared to be quite the chunk. We didn't get any weight estimates but his cheeks are full and he is squished as can be. I hope that means he'll move out sooner than he's supposed to. The first week of March is free and okay with me. Hahaha, I know I know I get no say in the birthday. Unless he's late, then I will take matters in to my own hands. I hope you're listening nugget.

I'm pretty sure I've run completely out of room to grow, except that I know that's not true because I have a full month and a half left. But it feels impossible and everyday I make it I will continue to be in shock that we are both STILL GROWING.

Like I said, all in all, were doing good. So grow big and strong nugget. We're ready when you are! (Okay, so that might be a lie, we've done nothing to prepare...).

a magical morning

2011-01-12T12:09:00.000-08:00

Christmas is long gone. Well it's really only been two weeks, but our tree is packed away, next to our four stockings. There is no trace left of the holidays. The house has a feeling just like January. Just like when you drive through Starbucks and they are no longer offering delicious latte flavors and are suddenly handing you the original green cup, instead of the festive red. Brand new. Bare. Starting over.

We prepared with many rolls of gift wrapping, tape and a few bows. We baked cookies for Santa and left reindeer food in our backyard. Sprinkled a little oatmeal, sequin dust to help Rudolph and his gang find their way to our house. I think the reindeer food was Mason's favorite part.

But Christmas this year was a magical morning. Two little men, four tiny feet, tip toed in excitement in to our living room. Anxious to see what Santa had left behind. Cookie crumbs, an empty glass of milk, and lots of goodies indeed.

Mason was infinitely more calm than I expected upon arriving in front of the gift filled tree. He inspected the crumbs Santa left and quickly questioned why and better yet, how he had moved our coffee table. His first words were "wait a minute...". So, he's not even four years old yet and he's already a cynic. Maybe this whole magical gig won't last long.

The minute Max woke up (or was woken up), Mason started to get a little more enthusiastic. He knew it was time to dive right in to the wrapped stash awaiting their twenty, warm little fingers.

Stockings were handed out. M&M's were devoured. Mason was astonished that Santa knew he wanted a new slinky and even better, he brought an identical one for his toy snatching brother. Peace on Earth people. The best gift of 2010 - spinning toothbrushes and bubbles. Looks like Mr. and Mrs. Clause could have saved themselves a lot of time and money.

As usual, the frenzy and high level of enthusiasm didn't even faze Max. But the cookies Santa left behind, oh those deserved loving. Thrilled that breakfast was not only M&M's, but sugar cookies TOO! It was almost like waking up to a white Christmas. Merry Christmas Maximo.

Slowly, the mound of not so perfectly wrapped presents shrunk. Each box revealed a fun new something. A new toy, a box of chalk, a fun board game - "oh mommy I am so proud of Santa for bringing me this. I dreamed of it all night long" was a phrase repeated after each gift. Among the favorites were a toy vacuum, new footie jammies, and some play doh. These kids are easy to please.

Can you see the joy in those sparkling eyes? The pure exhilaration in his face? So worth every minute of holiday frenzy to have this picture.

And it wouldn't be Christmas morning with out some warm coffee, a million pictures to sort through, wrapping paper for days, new, matching jammies and the brotherly choke hold in front of the tree.

The boys had quite a busy morning. Full of sugar. Full of excitement. Full of family, kisses, and loving. Full of North Pole charm. A magical morning indeed.

2010 rewind.

2011-01-02T13:01:00.000-08:00

Another year flew past. Just like that we laughed through a 12 full months, worked hard and played even harder for 52 weeks, drank a warm cup of coffee for 365 mornings. Now it's done, the entire year is over. Here's a rewind of our awesome 2010.

January - We did a lot of outdoor adventures. The zoo, the park, the front yard even became a play
date. Outside was what made (and still makes) the boys happy. Sunshine and smiles.

February - Mason turned THREE. In dino-mite fashion. He bounced his little heart out, we ate delicious pizza and sang to the king of all things sprinkled. This was the month we said goodbye to our beloved pacifier. Yes, my child had his "mimi" until he was three. And truthfully, this good riddance was only brought on by our first trip to the dentist.

March - We experienced our first Disney trip, the four of us! We made our way to Laguna beach and soaked up the sun, Max dined on some sand, and we left California a little happier than when we arrived. Mickey rocks, basically.

April - This month resulted in more park dates. It's basically the theme of my year. But April, was ALL about the golden egg. Not only did we hunt eggs on Easter morning, but we got to scavenge for eggs all month long, requested by none other than Mason.

May - One of my favorite months ever. Summer starts to play peek-a-boo with consistent sun, fresh tan lines and lots of swimming. Mother's day brunch was another hit, the boys rocked their fancy little get ups. And a miracle of all miracles, I have a picture of me with BOTH my children LOOKING at the camera. Happy May!

June - Our sweet baby turns ONE. His first year was a blur. Filled with fun, snuggles, robust cheeks to devour and not one single haircut. Mason selected his party theme - pirates. The party was a hit, for both the littles and the parents.We had a no kids trip to Vancouver that was a total blast and a much enjoyed weekend of relaxation. Mason learned to swim floatie free.

July - We made our yearly trip to the beach with tons of our cousins. So much fun. Smores and fireworks abound! We got a little {huge surprise}.... baby # 3 is on board!

August - And then, just like that August crept up on us and we were back to school. Mason rocked a new spiked 'do and daily routine was back in action. Back in the grind, it seemed like Fall, but still felt like Summer.

September- I can't remember a single detail about September. Well, besides my birthday and the extreme heat.

October - Mason's first official soccer game! The boys were ecstatic about Halloween. And they looked pretty damn awesome if I do say so myself. Our big ultrasound reveals baby number three is another sweet boy.

November - So much to be thankful for. Turkey on overload. A backyard mishap, resulting in our first broken bone (actually 2, Mase does it big). A neon green cast, a not so happy Mason.

December - And here it ends. Christmas was a delight. We are two thirds of the way to our new little man. Mason and Max act like full on siblings, with laughter and wrestling between the two daily. Mason's cast comes off - all healed up! Santa is shunned. I graduate {finally}. Celebrate good times.

Somewhere within our busy year, we all turned another year older, we all celebrated each other. We snuggled together. Mason learned to sleep in his own bed. So did Max. Max started walking and totally came in to his own little being. We are anxious yet, hesitant to move forward to a new year. 2011 is promising many changes and adjustments which I'm hopeful are as wonderful as 2010's.

So, there is our rewind. It's just at tiny glimpse back in to a year of us. Fun and chaotic. Accomplishments from all. One things for certain, it's was a year worth remembering. Cheers to 2011 & a Happy New Year.

NO MORE CAST.

2010-12-31T07:21:00.000-08:00

We went to our four week "broken arm checkup". Good news, NO MORE CAST. NO MORE BROKEN BONES. Look, mom TWO hands.

Then we immediately went to the grocery store. Stocked up on bubble bath essentials. Bubbles. And bubbly. It was no cast party time people.

We used an entire bottle of Mr. Bubbles. Both boys soon became Mr. Bubble and Mr. Bubble Jr. Max had really missed having his big bro accompany him at bath time. Mason had missed the fun of soaking up in the tub. His little arm was ready to be cleaned and scrubbed down. I couldn't wait to get my hands on that smelly, shriveled, tiny little arm.

The splashed and laughed. Giggled, doused each other with soapy suds over and over again. The sounds from the bathroom were glorious, total bliss. A bubble bath party like no other. The two of them and their infectious smiles, contagious laughs, and lathered bums.

Cheers, we are cast free.

Merry Christmas 2010!

2010-12-25T22:14:00.000-08:00

From all my favorite boys.

Love,
Mason, Max & Nugget (the unborn who remains nameless - still).

It's done.

2010-12-24T12:12:00.000-08:00

Well, I did it. The long awaited graduation ceremony has come and gone. What a rush. I had so many family members there to cheer me on, a true sign at how supported I've been all along this journey.The months quickly turned to weeks and the weeks to days. This semester moved quickly and though there were minor obstacles to overcome weekly and in every course, there was no barrier stopping me now.I still cannot believe it actually happened. I remember applying for graduation and receiving notification from my adviser that it looked promising, all my credits were lined up and in the computer. My diploma requirements were complete and upon passing the final credits of the semester, I'd be done. For real. All done. I still felt hesitant even after ordering announcements and picking up commencement tickets from the dean's office. I knew that at any moment a pesky email would arrive in my inbox stating that there had been some clerical error and I wasn't qualified or ready to graduate.

That e-mail, well it never happened. But graduation, well it did. Six hundred names in, mine was called. As I heard it read aloud, I could do nothing but smile. And walk to shake hands with whoever was on stage, grab the diploma and smile bigger. Just like that, it happened. Just like that, I'm done with college. I don't know what happens next or where I'd like to go from here. But for now I'm still smiling, still thinking "Wow, I did it. For real" and still so thankful for the opportunity and support all along.

Did it.

a half.

2010-12-23T10:56:00.000-08:00

Max,
Oh you sweet little man you are one and a HALF today. Your mischief and happiness is still intact. You are quite determined and headstrong. Best put - you're down right stubborn. It is your way or...well, no way.

You've learned to hit and to whine for snacks. You have started to talk more and more. My favorite new word "turtle". You've really only said it twice but I love the way your little lips form to utter a T sound. Unbearable cuteness.

You lived through your first hair cut. Barely. With the help of none other than SWEETS. And bubbles. Which pretty much happen to be two of your very favorite things.

Saying you have a sweet tooth might be the understatement of the century. Child, you would live on candy and ice cream and anything covered in sugar. I'm certain it's why you are so sweet. Not only do you love sweets you know just where they are not-so-secretly hidden. You will race to the pantry or freezer at any given home we're at and wince and whine and point "dat" until you spot a golden wrapped Reese's. Suddenly ice cream appears from the freezer and you clap, race to the table and grin proudly. "Dat" is what you wanted and "dat" is what you got.

You've started to interact with your big brother and I love it. For the most part you just study him in full admiration. Watching each move to attempt and copy it later. you may be the younger brother but you are not submissive, you lash out if a toy is taken from you without your permission, you hit back fiercely, actually you often throw the first punch. You are a stocky, munchkin warrior. You are also quite the monkey, you can quickly scale a couch or bar stool, only to stand atop the kitchen table where you KNOW you do not belong. Instead of yelling for acknowledgement you wait until someone peeks around the wall and spots you. Then you smirk proudly and start to groan, because you know I'm coming to remove you.

You are totally growing up in to a little boy. The hair cut definitely helps make it more real. Oh but you are still such a little guy, a tiny baby. You snuggle with the best of them and have learned to suck BOTH of your thumbs at once. We love you Maximo. Keep on growing, thriving and being you.

And in the meantime, happy half birthday munchkin man!!!

preschool programs

2010-12-23T09:59:00.000-08:00

I'm really not sure when my little man became old enough to have a school program, but I guess he did. Somewhere along the last twelve months my baby converted in to a preschooler. Right before my very eyes. This transformation can be proven when looking back at last year's photo albums, catching a glimpse of a snapshot hanging on the wall and most of all when watching an old video. He's grown up in to a big, but ever so little man. My three, "but almost four year old" as he constantly reminds me, marked off another checkpoint of growing up. The first school program. And he rocked it, if I do say so myself.

The children filed in class after class and sat in the church pews in front of us. As soon as I spotted Mason my heart filled with pride and a smile crept across my face involuntarily. He was dressed in his most festive attire, a Santa shirt and a Santa hat. Ready to sing the songs he'd practiced so studiously.

At last, his class took the stage. He was front and center. His bright eyes began to scour the sea of people and recording devices, he was searching for a familiar face.

And then, he found it. There we were.

He had spotted Mommy and Daddy, eyes bright, smiling back, ear to ear. I'm not sure who was more excited, Mason or us. I'm betting we win that one though. I wanted to run out mid song and hug him, shake him and shout to the audience "HE IS MINE. ISN'T HE WONDERFUL? LOOK AT HIS SMILE. CAN YOU HEAR HIS SWEET VOICE? HE KNOWS ALL THE WORDS AND HE'S SO SHY BUT HE'S UP THERE - GIVING IT HIS ALL AND SMILING AND FULL OF PRIDE, JOY AND HAPPINESS. AND HE'S MINE. MINE. MINE. CAN YOU BELIEVE I MADE HIM. ME. THE BEST THING I'VE EVER DONE. I'M NOT SHARING HIM OR HIS SWEET SMILING CHEEKS EITHER PEOPLE!!" I resisted that urge. But seriously, in that very moment my heart wanted to burst. Full of happiness. Full of pride. Joy. Full of love for this sweet preschool nugget, that is all mine.

The concert ended and we snapped a few more pictures. We headed out for a celebratory dinner. Celebrating awesomeness and our first school program under our belt.

gingerbread adventures.

2010-12-21T07:24:00.000-08:00

Those gingerbread house boxes you see at the grocery and craft stores. Yeah those, they are total false advertisement. The people smiling and icing the house with ease. Mmhm, that does not happen. Here is a real adventure in gingerbread house making. Maybe I should send those companies these pictures, but then sales may drop.

First of all, we sent Michael to the store with the mission of BUY BOXED, EASY TO ASSEMBLE GINGERBREAD HOUSE KIT. Michael walks in shortly after confirmation that the gingerbread house was purchased. We open the box, sort the goodies in to bowls, but umm...where's the icing honey? Oh that's right, we got a kit with icing you have to MAKE. And by the way, you have to add a shit load more water than it says. And with two extremely giddy, excited, impatient kiddos waiting around it's not the easiest route to go. Look at the amount of icing dust they packaged!!

~~I ate~~ The boys used every sticky drop.

A lot of preparation went in to the building of this gooey wonder. Okay, so really Michael skimmed at the directions and Mason was fully intent making out with his mixer beater. But occasionally pretended to be focused on the task at hand. As usual, Michael got super in to the activity and before it was all said in done, I'm pretty sure we decided he could surely become an architect like tomorrow if he wanted. In the North Pole at least.

Do you see where the real interest lies? The beater. He is planning his tongue attack with great detail and lust. ICING & CANDY. YUM.

Max did what Max does best. Ate. He indulged himself in icing, candy and blueberries. The dinner of a champion. This baby has a sweet tooth like NONE OTHER. Seriously, it baffles me how much sugar he can consume without puking. It does totally show in his boisterous, banshee behavior. So serious about icing, he was double fisting.

Alas, our sweet finished gingerbread house. Will you look at that perfection. Who needs windows and a snowy roof? I mean what more could you ask for, each side of the house is staying put. Apparently, that's good enough for us.

Santa Claus.

2010-12-17T09:17:00.000-08:00

Santa Claus is such a crucial part of Christmas for little kids. In Mason's eyes he is the ONLY one bringing gifts. We never even made a big fuss over Santa, but he IS Christmas for Mason. I was excited that this year, Mason was old enough to get the notion behind the magic of this holiday. His exhilaration for Santa and reindeer and tree lights is endless. We had reservations for breakfast with the one and only - yup, pancakes with Santa Claus. Mason seemed pretty excited yet a little apprehensive to actually meet Santa. All fun and games when that big man in the red suit is just an abstract concept, a picture on the page of a book, ya know?

So breakfast with Santa approached last Saturday. Mr. Fancy pants one and two in their ties loaded up for a feast with the bearded man, Mason excited and Max having not the slightest clue of what was to come. A few mentions of "I'm going to ask Santa for ____" blurted from the backseat on the ride to eat, a few shrill screams from Max in regards to the tie he hated so much. Excitement abound.

When Santa finally came out, Mason was strangely uninterested. Max was paying so much attention to the chocolate chips sprinkled atop his stack of pancakes that a real reindeer standing on our table wouldn't have made for much distraction. I was a little bummed, no one even cared. Was I more excited than my children about Santa Claus? Apparently I was.

Max was less than thrilled. Completely distraught. Hysterical. He took one look back at the exhausted, characterless Santa Claus and lost himself. I couldn't help but laugh irritatingly and snap away, while my poor helpless toddler sat there reaching for help, desperate for his life. Mason stood back just watching it all, refusing to render aid to Max. I finally nudged him over towards Santa and he let out his famous, ear to ear grin just long enough for a picture. Then he briskly forfeited his space next to jolly (er...barely breathing) old, St. Nick. Max was bailed out of Santa's lap and we were done. Done with Santa.

So we like the idea of Santa Claus, sneaking in to our house while were all snuggled in bed, leaving lots of goodies beneath the tree. But meeting Santa, conversing with that man, no thank you.

first haircut.

2010-12-13T10:03:00.000-08:00

We did it. Finally. We cut Max's hair! It was so long and starting to get a little unruly. I'm not sure how many times he was referred to as a precious, little, "she"...seriously people he is decked out in boy clothing - are you THAT confused? Clearly they were. We were so close to making it to the 1.5 year mark with out a snip, but we had to for the sake of him being able to see.

He wasn't thrilled to say the least. He refused to wear the smock, which resulted in a sprinkling of baby curls on the floor throughout the day. The first snip made my heart skip a beat and then I was all good. I know I sound ridiculously dramatic. He was totally rocking the baby mullet - rocking it well if I might add.

There's something about the first real haircut. It's the token from babyhood to childhood. It was bittersweet, but definitely time. Most of the cut went a little something like this.

Though we got a few of these.

I now know lollipops, bubbles and perhaps straight jackets were created for first haircuts. This pretty much sums up our trip. Curls snipped and a hairy Dum Dum.

We made it out alive. With some curls intact! Before we started, I asked numerous times if she thought he'd lose all his curls when she started cutting. She was really hesitant and didn't want to offer false hope, but said most babies do lose a lot of it. After the cut the stylist said she thinks he'll keep his curls since so much was hacked off and they were still unscathed.

A flashback of Mason's first cut. What a little munchkin he was. And are they seriously siblings - because I don't see it.

it's the most wonderful time of the year!

2010-12-08T09:28:00.000-08:00

Footie jammie time that is. The weather has finally cooled down to where it's legal to bust these adorable, matching (why of course!), sleepwear out. And so we trekked to Carter's outlet and stocked up on some new, cozy, footed jammies.

It all started a few nights ago - it was chilly and I slipped Max in our sole pair of footies that still fit either munchkin. Mason saw them and the questions started coming. "Where are my jammies with feets like that?" "Am I too big for feet pjs now? I'm growing up so fast". The jammies Max was sporting were actually Mason's oldies, so yes, Mase, you're growing, so fast. He was really bummed that he didn't have any and I felt really guilty that I'd assumed he was too big and would refuse to wear them.At Carter's I grabbed a few different patterns, but kept holding them up out in front of me to look at. They looked so big and silly and I'll admit I tried to convince him in to some two piece sets that seemed like they were geared toward bigger kids. He wasn't buying it. Every time I said "How about these?" he quickly replied with "do they have the feet". So I caved I bought jammies with feet for my almost four year old. A four year old in footies? Of course. 4T footies, coming right up.

He was so excited last night to take his bath and zip up in his pair "just ilke Max's". He was thrilled to show Michael his new pj's with FEET. I have to admit after seeing how cozy they were all bundled up together on the couch, I was wondering if maybe they made maternity footies. Then I snapped back to reality.

They were both so enthralled with these enchanting sleepers. I knew the minute Mase flashed me his cheeser grin, that the 4T footies were the best purchase this season. It's the most wonderful time of the year - footie time.

the holidays.

2010-12-06T11:49:00.000-08:00

The holidays are among us. Seeing how the first week of December has already come and go, I figured I should recap our Halloween and Thanksgiving celebrations before I forget all about the wonderfulness they enveloped. We decorated with all things spooky and munched on candy, then did a quick turn around just four weeks later to munch on turkey and potatoes and enjoy the beautiful weather, while being thankful for full bellies and gorgeous weather.

I love matching outfits, pj's and anything else I can manage to match with the boys. In fact, it's one of the [many] reasons I am so excited that our newest nugget is another boy. More coordination coming soon! Holiday coordination is by far the best. Halloween costumes are not forgotten in the frenzy of candy - they too are accommodated to mesh together. Although Mason was really excited for Halloween this year, he wasn't particularly set on any one costume. I may have hit the floor on both knees in prayer stance, when he didn't demand to be Iron Man fully equipped with a plastic mask and sword.

I know my holidays are numbered, in fact, I'm fairly certain I will never again get to pick his costume, while enticing him on "HOW EXCITING IS IT GOING TO BE TO MATCH WITH MAX && (insert unnamed baby here)". Because next year it won't be exciting to him and I know it won't fly. But, the good news is. This year it did. Presenting Mario & Luigi.

And baby Yoshi coming this Spring. See how much I love to coordinate? If they made a Yoshi costume in maternity I would've taken one for the team. And if Michael hadn't been away on business, you better believe I would've found him a Wario costume in 25T, er maybe just adult.

Halloween was a success. Even with the amount of sugar ingested and the amount of face paint reapplied for mustaches, it was a total blast. We stayed out way too late. No one was scared, both boys loved helping Michael decorate. We even left our huge, fancy web hanging until the day after Thanksgiving. I figured when our neighbor had busted out her bright, blue lights, white felt for snow and music figurines for Christmas decor, it was time to say goodbye to our haunted house. Seriously, her bushes and shrubbery resemble the mother tree out of Avatar. Max ate through at least four candy wrappers for a Kit Kat or Milky Way...successful night for him? I think so. Mason ran his little heart out from door to door, for a whole hour past what I assumed he'd last. Casually stopping to gaze in to his bag and pick a sweet something to nosh on while he continued trekking the neighborhood. He loved every minute of it.

Thanksgiving didn't have quite the same excitement to it for Mason. Though I think he enjoyed it just as much. The weather was un-seemingly lot for November, even for us. We dined outside and made three stops around town to visit family, mingle with friends, and indulge ourselves in deliciousness. The boys were troopers and smiled, laughed and played through it all. They didn't mind the insane shuffle and eased in to each loving relatives arms and home unfazed.

At the end of the day, we arrived home, worn out, exhausted and realizing the bounty of gifts we have to be thankful for. Michael suggested we each share what we were most thankful for. After he and I had exclaimed our love and thankfulness for one and other and our children, Mason stated with ease "I am thankful for eating Lunchables before bed and puzzles". Maybe next year "mom" or "dad" will make a quick debut in his thankfulness. We know Max didn't make the cut this year.

Christmas is nearing quickly. The enthusiasm of the season is filling Mason's little heart more and more each day. His eyes light up and he speaks so promptly about the events that are going to take place in our living room shortly. Max senses the hubbub but doesn't display the same thrill for the holiday. Mason will randomly interject our conversations to remind us that Santa is watching us and we better behave. He revels in every lit house we pass by and every decorated tree we see brings extreme joy and sparkle to his eyes. I guess it's time we get to spreading the merriment through our own house. Perhaps we should embellish and perfect our house with more than just a simple wintery wreath.

the sharpie bandit.

2010-11-30T11:07:00.000-08:00

I have heard stories about those kids. The ones who search cabinet after cabinet for cleaning products to destroy/empty/ingest, the kids who find the one not proofed electric socket in your house for their tiny little finger, the ones who empty drawers, color on walls, the ones who scream and refuse a restaurant highchair, rip pages out of books, throw food and tantrums daily. I didn't really believe these kids existed. More that it was some evil way to prevent people from every choosing to become parents in fear of having one of the those banchee babies. Max is one of those kids.

Max searches out the sockets for his fingers, he happily will take a DVD from it's case just to run it across the tile and destroy it, he will find your keys high and almost out of reach and forever rid of them. He's one of them. His newest title is the Sharpie bandit. He found my missing (apparently it wasn't forever lost) Sharpie and while I slipped away to put away clothes he decorated our (in his humble opinion) not so glamorous flooring.

{I'm so sad this picture turned out unfocused and blurry. He was so proud of his work when I busted out the camera to document his lovely behavior, he turned and exclaimed "Cheese". The best parenting advice I got, "Don't get mad, take a picture". And so, I did.}

His own special touch of decoration to our house. Thank you Max, you are numero uno at interior decor. Consider yourself fired.

masonisms.

2010-11-29T15:00:00.000-08:00

Some of these aren't that funny. They just mark the thoughts of a curious, sweet, innocent, adorable, sometimes rowdy 3 year old - who's edging eerily close to turning four.

"The letter of the day is F mommy. Like for feathers and fam-awee, oh, and cheez-its." The kid loves cheez its and I think this was his way of wanting to celebrate letter F with some cheddar deliciousness.
"Tonight I'm going to dream about you mommy". As I was taking in the sweetness, he added "...and pumpkins and ALLIGATORS!!". So maybe I'm not the only thing he thinks about..
Over Halloween weekend. "Mommy that's a lot of candy. If you eat more of my candy your teeth will fall out!" [said with confidence and a little anger]. That's silly who told you that Mase. "You did Mommy!". Busted. Step away from the Snickers, mama.
We went to eat burgers and I snuck chicken fingers on the menu for the boys to share. Somewhere mid meal Mason realized I had a burger and he said "Hey that's what I shoulda got! You tricked me". I tricked you indeed. "Hey, Mommy, you know what? Sharing is caring. And that rhymes". Mason - 1 Mommy - 0. For the record, I did share my burger. As hard as that is to believe.
To almost anything we say these days regarding bath, bed, dinnertime. "Mommy/Daddy, YOU GOTTA BE KIDDING ME!" No I am not kidding, you do have to eat your corn, take a bath and go to bed before 3:30 AM. Sorry kiddo.

He's growing up in to quite the little talker. He has more wit and sarcasm in his 3 foot body than most people have in their entire LIFE. He's a keeper. More Mason-isms to come, I'm sure.

thankful [2010].

2010-11-25T06:33:00.001-08:00

Another year has gone by, a year full of things to be thankful for. Today we celebrate Thanksgiving, a holiday washed out by football and turkey. Thanksgiving is a time to remember what we all have to be thankful for. I have so much.

I'm thankful for late night snuggles and midnight intruders in to my bed. I'm thankful for messy bubble baths where more soapy water ends up on me and my tile than either of my children. I'm thankful for syrup scented foreheads, long after breakfast has been cleaned up. For jammied, lotioned, soft sleeping babies. I'm thankful for long lashes that bat in my direction. I'm thankful for a head of thick, brunette, curls that make it effortless to find my tiny in a sea full of toddlers.

I am thankful for sunshine in November. I'm thankful for a Starbucks latte on an early morning. Sometimes more thankful for a lukewarm cup of coffee, brewed in my very own kitchen and shared on a couch between two sets of chubby things and cheerio crumbs.

I am thankful for sisters who share their secrets, their wildest dreams, their tears, but best of all, their laughter. Thankful for a warm bed that is often paralyzing in the morning. A bed filled with morsels of popcorn, goldfish and juice box straws. The same bed filled with memories of many cuddles, a routine of bedtime lotion and tooth brushing and an occasional Pixar movie party. A bed whose sheet smell's recapture the first day of bringing home a newborn and whose pillow's softness speak the sweet, familiar week of a preschooler's first cast.

I am thankful for dinner dates. For my best friend, a man who shares two imperative titles, both best friend and husband. My ally and teammate in parenting, my sidekick in late night channel surfing, my companion in life, love and laughter.I am thankful for his endless support in all aspects of my life. I am thankful for his hard work and dedication allowing me to worry about nothing but the task of raising three little men. I am thankful for his positive attitude and contagious merriment. For his continuous affection and his generous ways. I am thankful for his infectious smile, his boisterous laughter and his playful jokes. I am thankful he is mine.

I am thankful for my {almost} finished college education. For persistence and hard work tied with assistance from many to cross the finish line. I am thankful for a mother who shares wisdom, acceptance and love that knows no boundaries. Thankful for her selflessness. Thankful for her demonstration of how to be a good mother. I am thankful for a mother in law who treats me as her own daughter. Thankful that with open arms and an even wider open heart she never hesitates to watch my boys or come to our side with aide. I am so very thankful for all of my family who not only comes together on the holidays, but on random weeknights for dinner and good conversation. For family who loves my children like they are their own.

I am thankful for each bundle of blue I've been given. Thankful for baby kicks from within, reminding me at any given minute that I have so much to be thankful for, beyond that can even be seen. I am thankful for the future, that holds excitement, anticipation, and a sweet new newborn head to kiss.

I am thankful for Mason's laugh and Max's rarely caught real-not-for-the-camera smile. Thankful for their kisses, whether given or when need be stolen.

So thankful, for so much.

a weekend of firsts.

2010-11-21T08:52:00.000-08:00

Last weekend was busy. We had a weekend full of firsts. Nope, sorry grandparents it was not Max's first hair cut. The little man is still rocking his hippie 'do. Though we did get in there and trim his bangs up.

This weekend was a weekend of first's for Mason. He earned his first trophy - after ending his first season of soccer, which was his first sport. He was so very proud, as were we. He quickly declared "My next trophy is going to be bigger". Next sport up to bat = basketball.

Next we celebrated, well not so much, his first broken bone. To make sure he will never be out done by either of his baby brothers, Mason went ahead and broke not just one bone, but two. He received two broken bones last Sunday. He was such a trooper in the Emergency Room, charming the physician and nurses, showing us the brave little boy he is and he came out on top with a green cast that is already full of Sharpie ink. He is one loved little boy.

boys mean...sports.

2010-11-12T07:13:00.000-08:00

Boys mean blue socks and automobile layette. Boys mean trains, dinosaurs, and throwing rocks. Boys mean rough and tumble, with an occasional kiss. Boys mean being much too busy for a bite of lunch. Boys mean backyard explorations and creepy crawly friends. I swear to Michael, the minute we found out with each and every single pregnancy that we were expecting a boy, a boy meant sports. And jumping out of your chair in excitement that the baby did in fact have something dangling there between his legs, all why claiming to really have no preference at all. Boys meant competition. Boys means, basketballs, lacrosse sticks and shin guards.

At the ripe old age of three you can actually enroll in team sports. When Mason was a baby it seemed like three was so old, so big, so mature, and so ready for some sports. When September rolled around and soccer registration began, we jumped at the chance to get him started in a fun extracurricular that would hopefully fill his free time with exercise, friendships and laughter.The afternoon of his first game his socks and cleats were laid out. His shin guards were ready and his blue jersey was washed and cleaned and admittedly three sizes too big for any preschooler. He was #10 and he was thrilled to wear his new outfit. Fully dressed he was swimming and lost in the get up. His shorts and socks met and you could barely see any skin of his small knees. All the sudden three wasn't seeming so big and so ready for sports. But the smile he flashed before we headed to the fields was enough to reassure me that he was indeed ready.

The game started with a blow of a whistle. The minute the kids all started playing Mason had some hesitation. Mason is a timid little boy by nature, always wanting to perfect things before even attempting them. Mason is also one of the most energetic kids I've ever seen, so I was shocked that the thought of running around, laughing and screaming and chasing a ball didn't appeal to him.

He switched from my lap to Michael's, tugged at his hair, and refused to go in the game. A whole hour pasted. We bribed him, pleaded with him, even stood with him to get him to play. He wasn't having it. The only thing he enjoyed were the stickers, stamps and fruit snacks after the game. I was frustrated and bummed. I wanted my kid to be the shining star of the team. I wanted my baby to score the first goal and kick the ball furthest and hardest. I wanted the natural. I figured Michael's heart was slowly crushing as he watched Mason refuse to enter the game. It was a humbling experience.

Tomorrow is Mason's final soccer game this season. It took another two or three games just like the one I described before he would play. Now he itches for his turn to go in. He chases the ball and laughs and puts on a show for the crowd, just like I knew he would. It seems silly thinking back to September when I was so frustrated and humbled. I'm not sure what bothered me so much. Why did I even care? Then I realized that three isn't so big, so old, so mature, so ready. Boys don't have to mean sports. And Michael's heart never crushed, and dreams of years of sports for Mason never crossed his mind - but his happiness on the field did.

Tomorrow I'm expecting him to flash us the same smile he did the night of his first practice. A smile that says maybe I'm ready, maybe I am growing up, but it isn't too fast. A smile that reminds us I'm confident and energetic, and sometimes a little timid. A smile that elates I'm happy. And that's all that matters. We'll smile back. An exchange of affirmation and pride in our little man. We will revel in his playfulness that defines his being. So, boys might mean sports to some. But to us, they just mean happiness.

monday musings.

2010-11-08T13:23:00.000-08:00

Okay, give me a break - it's Monday. Not just any Monday. My first Monday back to blogging. It appears I've taken a hiatus. Really, I have no big, crazy excuse, I wasn't on a month long vacation out of the country and my house didn't get zapped away by aliens. I've just been busy.

Musings always seem easiest in the form of bullet points, right? The answer is, sure, of course.

Mason's on a kick with the number 100. In 100 years, he'll be 100. He swears.
We are 21 weeks in to pregnancy #3. That's more than 50%, I've never been good at math, but damn that flew by. I always hated how people said "We're pregnant" because you better believe there is no one sharing this morning sickness, tailbone sciatica or alcohol abstaining with me. No one. Unless the love nugget himself counts?
Halloween has come and gone. I took a few good pictures. Mason repeatedly wiped his face painted mustache off his face all night. Max ate through some candy wrappers to get to the GOOD STUFF. Overall=success.
Fall weather has hit. Our back door stays open pretty much all day. We're also peeing in the back yard a lot. Well some of us are.
Max has acquired a sweet tooth. He will not resist any nourishment in the form of chocolate, sugar or sweets. Do you really have to acquire that taste?
Max also had his 15 month appointment (a month late). According to his pediatrician he's a little peanut, juts 22 lbs and 31 inches. Those stats sounded ginormous to me though. He also said he appears to be doing just perfectly in all other areas of life. He's just kicking ass and taking names already, duh.
I ordered my graduation announcements today. I can't believe it's finally (almost) here. For real.
Sibling rivalry is setting in. Max will lovingly whack his brother upside the head and Mason whines to me "He's ruining everything" or "Well, he started it". The next 15 years should be fun.
Soccer season ends in ONE week. I feel like we just registered.
Lemonade is the best pregnancy craving ever.
It's almost time to order Christmas jammies. I cannot believe it.
For once in my life I am excited for a Thanksgiving meal. It may be the nugget talking...

I'm really trying to stay on my game and blog more. I'll be back for more!

itty bitty & his spider

2010-10-25T13:12:00.000-07:00

The other day we were decorating for Halloween and I snapped some pictures of Mason with his favorite piece of decor - the hairy spider. As I was going through them, uploading and weeding out all the bloopers I felt nostalgic. It was like deja vu. I kept thinking I don't know where or when, but I know I've seen this picture.

I shuffled through my memory files in my brain and couldn't pull out the file I was dreaming of. I blew it off maybe I'm crazy. Then a few days later I was browsing old pictures on my laptop, being nostalgic again. Ah ha! I might be crazy but I'm not that crazy.

Ok, so it's not exactly the same picture. But these are both mister Mase (duh, right?) with his furry friend this year AND here he is with his furry (not so much friend) on his very first Halloween. I mean seriously is this even the same kid? It's hard to believe it, but it is. I mean look at those thighs and those round, rosy little cheeks, even his pissed off grimace is adorable. Three whole years later he still has those rosy cheeks and soft skin. And as the photographs will prove, he is much more enthusiastic about Halloween this year. It's also hard to fathom that this will be his FOURTH Halloween. I'm really bad at math and yes, he's not four, but this Sunday we will be celebrating #4, promise.

Just a little blast from the past of the itsy bitsy (er, once upon an itty bitty) spider.

writing.

2010-10-13T14:05:00.000-07:00

This year at school Mason's started to learn more alphabet recognition, uppercase versus lowercase letters, a little spelling and he has even begun to write letters. I don't know if I was just confused but I swore we wouldn't be writing until kindergarten. Needless to say we're all really excited about it! Mason is captivated with writing and drinks up all the instruction like a little sponge.

The other night he laid sprawled on the living room rug with Michael and wrote all the letters he could get Michael to show him. At first I thought it was bedtime trickery since it was pushing 8:00 PM. But he genuinely asked for "more letters pwease" over and over and over. Until we reached "k" and then we had to force him to bed.

He's practically mastered his name, although we swear were were not trying to be unique, creative or new-aged by spelling Mason with a "z", that's his own tasteful artistic touch on his masterpiece. Trust me, I realize the immense level of my biases for how awesome I truly believe my kids are, but how kick ass is his writing for THREE YEARS OLD? Brag over.

We are learning, writing, and full of curiosity. As bittersweet as each milestone seems to be, I love watching him continue to push the limits of his potential and grow (even if it's faster than I approve of). Go Mase man go!

paint, pumpkins, it's fall, oh my!

2010-10-07T17:52:00.000-07:00

It's October, so basically this is as close to Fall as it's going to get here. Best way to celebrate with a a toddler and preschooler? Why, painting pumpkins of course. We made a swing by the grocery store and inspected numerous pumpkins until we finally chose three perfectly robust, deep orange pumpkins. You know because painting pumpkins is so fun I wasn't about to miss out on that activity.

Mason could hardly wait to get home I swear he tried to bust open the paint in the car. Against all odds and my fabulous luck he failed his mission. I am fairly certain I heard "is it time to paint pun'kins yet, dis is taking sooo wong" about fifty six times in a fifteen minute drive home. Alas, we pulled in the driveway and raced inside to begin pumpkin (or pun'kin) masterpieces!

I carefully poured little runny puddles of colorful paint on to a paper plate, gathered lots of brushes, cups of water, and Mason's secret "snack" he somehow snuck in to the grocery cart to our backyard. It was time to get festive. So we did.

Max took right to the paint. He loved it - on his belly and hands and even as dessert. Max's recklessness was not appealing to Mason, the world's most easily stressed three year old. He was panicking...Max was making a mess, he was mixing all the colors, oh heavens no who does THAT? I don't know what I was dreaming of when I only set up one color palette for painting. I should have known better. These are my kids after all, I should wise up.

Mason excitedly spotted his mystery snack. In the cutest little voice ever he asked, "You got dat for me mommy? You are teh best mommy ever, I wuv you". I guess he meant you didn't realize I'd snuck a COKE in our basket while Max was screaming and throwing everything off the racks of every aisle we attempted to go down? You won Mase, you snuck it past me, but don't think it'll be that easy with the booze in thirteen years buddy. He won indeed. Sipped it right down with a festive ORANGE straw.

After the old fashioned coke was demolished, a spurt of energy appeared. Enthusiasm rekindled and painting ensued. Mason took a lot of time and worked hard, painting his tiny little pumpkin for nearly thirty minutes. I ended up having to force him to stop because between all the mixing of colors his pumpkin was starting to look rotten - well, a rotten masterpiece I mean.

The mosquitoes were in full force taking no prisoners and not quite taking the hint that it's FALL, or that were pretending it is. Lastly, Max had ingested more paint that was on all three of our pumpkins and I know, I know it's non-toxic, but the thoughts of what color diaper I was going to end up with tomorrow at 9:00 AM were more than enough to go ahead and end our lovely activity.

We are already painting pumpkins - so c'mon Fall, do your damn thing already.

shining through.

2010-10-05T08:46:00.000-07:00

Personality is the first trait that I envision when I find out another baby is joining our family, but often the last to surface. Admittingly I spend many months wondering "who will this little muffin look like?" Yet upon meeting, you instantly get to see who's nose they got, what color hair and eyes they ended up with and if they unfortunately got stuck with your fat feet or not. But personality stays at bay months on end. You often get a tiny glimpse in to their personality the whole first year, between the frequency of smiles versus tantrums.

Max your personality is finally shining through in big ways. It's been long awaited since I first met you and saw your deep, dark eyes and your chubby little feet (sorry about those by the way, it's all mama's doing). You looked so different than I pictured you, so far from what I imagined, you were even better. Suddenly, I knew the same would go for your personality. And I was right - it's better than I could have ever dreamt. Through hopes and dreams and high anticipation you beat all the expectations I ever conceived.

I could write you a letter telling you all of your accomplishments and which milestones your hitting, but that is so routine. We know you love bananas and clapping and balls and can "woof". We know you hate your carseat and bathtime. But I want to let you know the joy of your disposition.

You are a boy's boy. You walk outside and the minute the air touches your face, you light up. Dirt, sticks, splashing in water and skinning your knees all take precendence over being read and sang to. You shine brightest when outside. Even if your shorts get damp or your hands are stained with mud you never whimper, not even a whisper of discontent. Anger and sadness are not your forte. Deep belly laughing and remaining easy going despite any obstacles are your specialities. Your nature is what makes you so special to me, because you are like no one else I know. You are unique in this way that I can't fully grasp because it is so far from me that sometmies I question how I could essentially create someone as exceptional, extraordinary and remarkable as you.

You are a smiler and your smile is full of teeth and emotion. You love so deeply, so affectionately, so openly. You hug with the strength of multiple grown men, possessing so much strength in such a small being. See, size really doesn't matter. You are this tiny little guy with undiluted, simple and pure, joy for everything, each and every moment of your day you shine. Your smile shines like your personality - blazing vividly, a lustrous beam, a radiant sheen.

You my dear assuredly have incredible potential, with character like yours the world is at your fingertips. You love unconditionally, smile from your heart, you warm a room immediately when you laugh, you make everyday better. You are so unique and I love you so much - every bit of you that is so foreign from me. This personality you've got is starting to shine and baby boy, somethings telling me that your little light is pronounced and bold; your little light will never burn out.

Keep shining sweet Max in all that you do and all that you are.

we've got the blues!

2010-10-02T08:42:00.001-07:00

The baby BOY blues. We snuck out for an elective 3d/4d ultrasound to get a peek at love nugget's gender. Surprise (or not so much) it's another boy. I told myself I wouldn't be surprised if we found out it was a third boy, because it makes sense that it would be another boy and not a girl if you think about it. I'm not sure how reproductive odds really work, but they are a little skewed from 50/50 in my case. Clearly.

Nuggey had something to share. Lo and behold, here he showed us that mommy's intuition...sucked. All the morning sickness and other wives tales that indicated girl were way off. Nuggey showing us his trickster side already.

We are all so excited. Actually Max has no clue what's going on, I don't think he will ever know what hit him come March. And actually Mason was a little bummed. I told him that our new baby was a boy baby, in my most excited, convincing voice. He looked at me genuinely confused and told me that "Maybe we could send it back. Because that's too much boy babies". Ummm, maybe. If the stork wants to send us his exchange policy Mase. So I guess Michael and I were the excited ones. These brothers of nuggey's will come around. One day they'll be so thankful there is no teenage girl residing in their house to contend with.

So there you have it. Final score boys- 3, girls- 0. I'm outnumbered, again. I was officially outnumbered when we found out Max was a boy, so this puts us to the point of no return! Three little munchkins, three little boys, three little MEN. I don't know what concept is harder to grasp - another baby or another boy!

I can't wait to meet you, nuggey and smell your sweet newborn head and kiss your soft little hands and snuggle you at all hours of the night. The newest baby boy and I think you'll fit right in. See you soon nuggey. In the meantime, enjoy all the calories I'm sending your way.

it's my birthday!

2010-09-16T13:50:00.000-07:00

Well, it was. Last week I celebrated my birthday and it was so awesome. I'm not sure if being with all my family or the Snickers cheesecake made it so kick ass, but I'm thinking maybe it was the combo, but a little more nougatocity. That's a real word, in fact, it's in the dictionary...the Urban Dictionary. Nougatocity often occurs during or at the end of eating a wonderfully delicious Snickers candy bar. Or cheesecake. Yum.

We celebrated at La Gloria Ice House. The food was yummy, the atmosphere was bustling and the company was impeccable. My kids even ate their whole meal with minimal fussing. Mase was partially enthralled with an iPhone from Aunt Yaya and Max was fully spoiled in the arms of his grandmas (who had too much fun wearing superhero capes). Allegedly.

Everyone enjoyed too much food and cold, refreshing margaritas (except the birthday girl). I can't believe I thought Mexican food sans margaritas or imported beer was a good idea when pregnant. But I did it. My margarita was nougat. Or something close to it...pretty much as intoxicating.

It's funny how when you get older birthday's mean more, because you realize they only come once a year and a year is a long time and it's kind of like this huge reflection of how busy and crazy your life has gotten in the past 365 days. Every September 8th I kind of think wow that was a quick year it's already my birthday again, what did I even do or accomplish this year?

But when your 3.5 that is not what a birthday is about and my inquiring, enthusiastic preschooler wanted to know what kind of birthday I was having and what kind of cake I wanted and how many dinosaur toys I'd be receiving. He was mortified I would not be picking a theme related to prehistoric beasts, pirates, or superheros. When you are three if you don't have a theme, well it's not really even your birthday. Mason was extremely concerned the night before my birthday while I was tucking him in, reminding him that, "When we wake up it's mommy's birthday!" His face immediately showed distress. And then came the wrath of 21 questions. Who would get me a cake? He was much too little to get to the store. I'd better remind daddy that my birthday was tomorrow or I'd wake up with no balloons, no toys and worst of all "no pwincess cake". I assured him that someone would remember to get me a cake. And if I needed to remind daddy it was my birthday we'd be packing up all our toys (okay, I didn't really tell him that).

I did not have to remind Michael and instead woke up to roses, lots of candy, cupcakes and even some sparkling cider (in yo face Margaritaville). Michael served and cleaned breakfast to the munchkins and it was a happy birthday indeed! And hey, I ended up with a cake. Have I mentioned that yet? Because it was the bomb and I know I've mentioned it. But alas, when you grow up, you can bear the thought of letting someone else blow out your candles. So long as they're cute.

when life gives you lemons

2010-09-10T09:48:00.001-07:00

You make lemonade right? So what do we do when the forecast brings on loads of rain? We play it in it. Obviously.

Playing in the rain is more fun than you can imagine. I even enjoyed the freeing experience this past Tuesday as well. It'd been pouring for nearly twenty-four hours and we even had some flash flood warnings and street closures in the area.

So Max and I went and scooped Mason up an hour early from school, rushed home, got our rain boots on (and our pants off...?) and puddled jumped, splashed around, and ran in the rain.
Don't you love their fashion? Okay, the headband was my doing, but the humidity and the rain combined made for stringy face bangs that Max detested. He much preferred my headband. Mason's lovely ensemble on the other hand is totally his doing. As we put on his boots he informed me that he could NOT play in the rain wearing shorts. I thought he wanted pants - but by the time I'd gotten some he already had his boots and umbrella ready by the door. I didn't have the heart to force any bottoms on him.

If were breaking teh rules and playing in the rain - heck we may as well break some fashion rules right? Fashion faux-pas # 1 - Crocs + headband. Faux-pas # 2 - Rainboots + boxer briefs. Although I have to admit I think Mason looks pretty cute. I mean he is just 3 and if undies and rainboots aren't what being three is all about then life is not fun.

We splashed for nearly 30 minutes before I thought hey, maybe these kids need to warm up. So we went inside for a warm bubble bath and snuggled up in bed for an afternoon of watching Monsters Inc. It was a lovely afternoon, even though the forecast tried to rain on our parade.

When the forecast shows rain, put on your boots and get out there for some splashin'! Don't forget your shark boxers.

hey, he's got favorites too!

2010-09-07T14:03:00.000-07:00

I am the worst mom ever. You guys wouldn't even know I had a second child other than his cute little face up in the corner icon. I feel like my blog posts are grossly unfair. It's hard because Mason talks and says lots of funny things that I feel like I need to write down and quick because they are witty and cutesy.

But Maximo is his own little character sans words. Well, hey he can say a handful of nonsense - like ball and hi and daddy! My favorite is the combination of "aye addy" right when Michael walks through the door. We are usually all so ecstatic for Daddy that Maximo bolts to the door waving and "aye" - ing and sometimes clapping away. Hell I usually feel like a round of applause is appropriate too.

Some of Maximo's favorites are grapes of any color, chocolate milk, brushing his teeth, the toothbrush in general, dancing, destroying story time, night lights, pillows, being diaper-less, being outside, dogs, birds and noodles.
Not such fan favorites for Max are watermelon, white milk, eggs, bath time, swimming, the feeling of grass on his bare feet, nail cutting, movies or any television, having to share and being gated away from stair climbing.
He has a few baby tricks and will still high five til the sun goes down. He likes to blow bubbles in a straw. He loves pantry exploring, emptying nicely folded laundry out of baskets, and exploring the fridge. He will climb anything in sight - especially brick fireplaces and couches. He loves to book it to the stairs and sleeps like a champ. He had his fifteen minutes of fame and was featured on a short snippet of the Austin evening news.

We've yet to cut his hair and I think he likes it that way. He's got a head full of curls and eyes as dark as midnight. He's a totally different toddler than Mason was.

So there you have Maximo's favorites - edition "almost 15 month".

P is for.

2010-09-06T13:55:00.000-07:00

Piggies.

Popcorn.

Pajama party past noon.

favorites. edition 3.5

2010-08-31T18:07:00.000-07:00

This month Mason turned three and a half. Half years aren't that big of a deal right? UNLESS YOU'RE THREE. Because then you totally have that one up on the kid at the playground who is just three, or three and one-quarter. Totally.

I did my bi-annual questionnaire on Mase man to see what his favorites where. These are all straight from the mouth of a 3.5 year old. No guessing from mama, all topics were asked and answered. Unedited and live.

Food: Cereal *
Animal: Dinosaur **
TV show: Wow Wow Wubzy, I really love that show mommy. Can I watch it right now?
Color: Green.
Toy: The computer. ***
Movie: Toy Story ****
Sport: Tennis. *****
Number: "Free, because I'm free mommy". Why naturally.
Snack: Crackers with cheese. I love cheese.
Fruit: Grapes.
Vegetable: Umm, I don't willy wike veg-ables. But maybe a tomato. ******
Friend: Hanna.

I threw in some gimmes for fun.

"Who's your favorite Mommy?" His response was "You, because you are my only mommy, mommy". Got me there.
"What do you want to be when you grow up?" First he said a fire ENGINE. That's right...not a fireman. But with some coaching I'm writing a fireman.

Clarifications:

*Cinnamon Toast Crunch to be specific.

**But only a T-Rex.

*** He is for real. This kid would play on nickjr.com for hours if we let him. It's a sick obsession, but sometimes it's the only way I can shower in peace.

**** He's lying, he doesn't love Toy Story - he does like it a lot, but no way would I say it's his fave. Okay, okay, right, this isn't about me. Apparently it's about buzz...and woody.

***** SAY WHAAAAAAT?

****** this is where I totally deny having any knowledge that a tomato might actually, really be a fruit. NONSENSE. Because then, I'd have to admit taht my kid doesn't eat ANY veg-ables.

And that will be my last post for August, glad I made it. Because in September he's 3 and 7/12ths ;)

back to school & a heartbreak.

2010-08-30T14:53:00.000-07:00

It's been a week since we started back to school. Mason really loves school - he is a curious kid by nature and always wants plans. I can pack a day full of activities and the second we are done and have some down time its full of "Mommy what are we doing next" and "After we color/swim/run in circles for 15 hours, then what are we going to do" questioning. We are going to CHILL OUT and do nothing, imagine that. Needless to say, school is a nice break for all of us.

This year he moved up to the Older 3's class. He also goes three days instead of just two. His teachers are super sweet and both are bilingual, we've been promised bilingual preschoolers by May. We are pretty excited about this Fall. Mason has a handful of super cute 3.5 year old friends from his class last year which has taken the edge off of a bigger classroom with more structure.
Last year was all play, this year is a lot of play but a little educational structure with some curriculum involved. He already knows his letters which is one of the things they are focusing on this month, but he likes to have a head start.
This first week of school Mason encountered his first heartbreak and it was so pitiful for me to watch. Mason has had this little girl Hanna in his class since they were 19 month old's. They were always inseparable, he would gladly play kitchen with her for hours and she would chase him on the playground. The teachers often used to tell us how adorable they were together and sometimes in the hall they'd catch them holding hands. Serious love people. Well, Thursday the director informed us that Hanna moved - all the way to Boston!! Mason was pretty down in the dumps.
I tried to heal all his heartbreak wounds with a date, just mama and Mason - well and some spaghetti and meatballs. I think it work. Michael mentioned getting a six pack and having the talk. Instead we settled for Bluebell and dinosaur shaped sprinkles. He was back at school today with a smile on his face and a reassurance that "all his other friends would still be there". I guess his gloomy week is over. He moves on quickly - but it was definitely his first little heartbreak and watching his heart break, broke mine.

Disclaimer: Against the wishes of a very cute 3.5 year old, the very Incredible Hulk will not be attending preschool this year.

Anniversary.

2010-08-22T09:58:00.000-07:00

We celebrated our two year wedding anniversary this year. I can't believe I didn't mention it. We've had a busy year together and it's been a total blast. We stuck to and old favorite for dinner, PF Changs. We ordered way too much food and talked just the two of us all night (well ok, for a few hours) with no crayons and no sippy cup throwing. It was such a treat.

After our dinner date we strolled through Target for some things we needed - like toilet paper, how romantic right? Well who can go in to Target for ONE item and not come out with more than just a single thing? Clearly I cannot. I should not be trusted in a Target. We ended up getting a bunch of random things, like bins for too small clothes for the kids, a couple shirts, jammies for Mason, I'm not even sure how we racked up nearly $200, but we did. Happy Anniversary to us.
I could and probably should write a lovely letter to my hubby. He really is the best. He'll give me the last nacho on his plate or let me watch Juno instead of pre-season football. Watching him play with the boys makes my heart melt like butter in the microwave. He works hard so I can stay at home and revel in my boys toddler hood. He encourages me to find a career that I love. He'll make a late night run for a Powerade, redbox or even a DQ Blizzard if need be. He doesn't hog the covers and he's the only person over 36" I will snuggle. He can built back a Hot Wheel Track or a demolished train table set up in under 2 minutes. He lets me be right when we all know I'm wrong. He remembers to sneak in kisses when I'm grouchy and will occassionally surprise swiffer the floors. He's my better half. He's a catch.

See? I love you honey.

more mason-isms,

2010-08-18T06:06:00.001-07:00

Summer means a lot of things. One thing it's meant this summer is eating out. In January I vowed to cook more meals at home for the four of us. Between morning sickness (which is a new world for me and not fun in the least) and the heat and the busy schedules and Michael being in and out of town, we've resorted to some quick pick ups. Chic Fil A might be our favorite. The nuggets are delicious, a lot of nights they do the kids eat free, and of course there is a playground. I have only a few choices on where to eat out - they all have a play scape, sandbox or huge field for kids to run wild in. Trust me other wise it's not pretty.

Mason: "Mommy I love when we eat here."
Me: "It is really yummy and fun, huh? I think Max loves it too" (Max scarfing down nuggets and soft serve shrieking in joy while clapping)
Mason: "He does love it. We both do. We think you are the best cook ever when you cook us Chic Fil A".

Well I suppose once again my cooking skills are outed. Mason's favorite meals I make him are Chic Fil A and Cinnamon Toast Crunch. Awesome. I suppose I need to up my game in the kitchen this Fall.

Masonism 2 took place at a hair salon. Mason's hair grows so quick. It's super cute and shaggy, but it's as straight as a board. Which leads to bangs in his eyes and sometimes a scraggly little mullet-ish 'do. We had his bangs trimmed just so he wasn't complaining in the pool. It turned in to a funky bowl cut. I sported the bowl cut all through elementary school and promised myself I'd never allow my children that hair cut. Ever. So we went to have it shortened up for back to school. I told the lady I really wanted it short but just not buzzed. She didn't take out her clippers and spent an eternity trimming it with scissors. Thirty minutes (and 4 dum dums later) it looked the same, but just a shorter bowl. We compromised, she busted out some clippers and he got a short hairdo. He was closely examining his cut from his McQueen car chair. He looked kind of perplexed.

Mason: "Ummm, I think maybe we should fix the top with some spikes on it, mmkay?"
Salon Lady: A little confused. "Umm if that's okay with your mommy?"
Mason: "My mommy loves spikes. It's okay. Let's do it"

Well, we totally DID it. Spikes is back. And he loves his spikes. He won't let me turn the car A/C on because "It will make my spikes flat". Umm, it's August and 100 degrees Mason, I don't think your spikes will mind.

Dearest August.

2010-08-12T18:42:00.001-07:00

Dear August,

I don't really know how to say this, but this isn't really working out. At all. The heat, the humidity, the pool's being warm and not refreshing. It's not you - it's me. It's all of us. We are exhausted. Summer's been a total blast. But this is us waving our white flag. Summer, we surrender. We quit. We are so done. So over it. Don't take it personally, we'll call you next February when it's raining and cold and we are ready for some HEAT. But for now we're breaking up. Totally admitting defeat. We're exhausted and again DONE.

Love,

Your flakey summer faithfuls.

breakfast.

2010-07-29T17:35:00.000-07:00

Max is an eater. He'll eat basically anything. I think the exceptions are watermelon, tomatoes and occasionally broccoli. But his favorite meal is breakfast. He loves waffles, pancakes, toasts, raisins, every fruit, dry cereal, oatmeal, eggs, YOU NAME IT.He's very in to meal time. He gets all giddy and shows me his big toothy grin and eats until I'm afraid he's going to puke. The minute he is done, he is DONE. He'll start slinging food every which way, directly on the floor and fling his placemat off the table. It's a lot of fun ;)Lately we introduced him to yogurt. Hello messy fun. Hello thrilled one year old. Everytime I clean him up after breakfast (and my table, floor, couch, anything withing a 50 ft radius of destruct-o eater) I say to myself "STOP BUYING YOGURT". But his enjoyment is too great.
I busted out an old Mason favorite oatmeal mixed with cereal. That concoction is just screaming big sticky mess. Mason must have been a dainty eater because it wasn't ever messy. Maybe it had something to do with the fact that he hated eating with his hands. Whereas Max holds the fork in one hand and shovels food in to his mouth with his free hand. It's pretty cute. I'm not sure if he doesn't get it or is just trying to be more efficient. Whatever he's doing, it's working.
When the sticky deliciousness was gone he picked up the bowl and looked in to it like that's it? This isn't never ending oatmeal goodness mom? Sorry Max, this is not Chili's we don't serve bottomless appetizers or margaritas (most days). He took straight to his usual - throwing and slinging the tiny tid bits of left over blueberries and toast and with an enraged grunt tossed the placemat to the floor. But this time I didn't grumble "STOP BUYING YOGURT". Instead, I made it for Sunday's breakfast too.
Breakfast is a hit in our house.

what we've been up to.

2010-07-26T11:54:00.000-07:00

Oh summertime, keeping me super busy so I can't blog about my life, who do you think you are?! I mean seriously. Okay okay, so we've been on the go a lot of June and here it is at the end of July and I feel like I have no idea of what the heck we've been doing all summer. Here's a mini summer recap in pictures.

Beach trips.

S'mores. Lots of gooey delicious s'mores. Because what is summer without some melted chocolate collaborating with some warm marshmallows all bundled together between Graham crackers? Well, it's not summer that's for sure.

Max has been up to cake smashing. Toy stealing. Attempting to run. Out-eating his brother. Being ONE.

Vancouver. Sans children.

Dance parties. On the daily. In the car, the living room, the kitchen. You know everywhere, anywhere. Mason requests them, I oblige. Max even claps to cheer us along.

Playdates. Playdates GALORE. Which ultimately means lots of running around chasing multiple small children, mommy's wishing it was happy hour (sometimes it's AT happy hour, classy I know), sandy hair, sweaty kids, lots of snacks, lathering of sunscreen, but HAPPY kids. Mason is a total friend lover. I sometimes regret even agreeing to a playdate because the minute it's time to go - full on meltdown. We're working on that.

GOGGLES. Goggles are fun. Unless your one. Maximo won't even let me get close to him with them. I think I traumatized him with his pirate patch for his birthday invites.
4th of July. Fireworks. Parades. Big hit in Mason's book.

Swimming. Sunshine. Sno-cones.

Going to bed late (too late) and attempting to sleep in (Max often misses his MEMO).
WE LOVE SUMMER SO MUCH.

But I think I've mentioned that close to four hundred times in the past few months. How's that for catching up the blog on my whole summer (thus far) in one post...one super long, picture overloaded post.

mommy fail.

2010-07-20T05:16:00.000-07:00

On Monday Mason had swim class - he's been doing it about a month now and it has worked wonders. He can swim unassisted about 20 feet. He is so proud and will refuse to wear floaties, which WAS the point, but man it can be annoying when I want to sit peacefully in the sun and watch him swim - instead of being splashed and dunked by my three year old. Anyway, this isn't even the point of the story...

....the story is about Max the bottle thief. We were sitting in the viewing area watching Mason kick and float and blow bubbles and "dive" for rings and so on. Max was not amused, needed a nap and a snack (or really probably just some lunch). Guess what I didn't have? A SNACK. So I let him walk around and lo and behold, Max finds a baby, probably just a few weeks younger than him, with a bottle. We kind of just weaned Max from his bottle. We kind of ran out of formula and there were no bottles to be found. And just like that he was weaned. And pissed. The minute, no, no, the second he saw that bottle he had a mission. Steal bottle. Drink other kids formula. Show mommy who's boss in this joint.

I was able to steer him away from the baby, who didn't know what he had coming to the sibling play area for about five minutes. Then either the bottle came back in to view or Max remember. He flung himself all around and threw a mini Max fit reaching for the bottle making this little hand motion that means I WANT THAT NOW. It's usually for a sippy cup of juice, because that's what Mason has. I glanced at teh clock and wanted to throw a mommy fit - we had nearly 15 minutes of class left. Sounds like nothing, just 15 minutes. Yeah? YOU TRY ENTERTAINING A FLOPPY, OVERTIRED, 1 YEAR OLD FOR 15 MINUTES. It's an eternity.

They have a big bowl of dum dums for the students after class. It's probably Mason's favorite part of being a student - the sweet reward after his swimming. Sometimes he'll remind me that he gets a lollipop for about an hour before class. Then he'll ask me (usually right after he finished it and were pulling out of the parking lot of swim school) "Remember that lollipop I got at swimming last day mommy? I loved that? Pops make you big and strong. So do veg-it-bles. Just wike my Daddy. Wight Mommy?" Hmm, I don't think I've forgotten just yet Mason, remind me in oh six more minutes, and yes, lollipops will make you big and strong, or something like that.

I grabbed one to share with Max. It sounded like a good idea in the heat of the moment, okay. Not a good idea. The minute I realized he was waaaaaaay too little to do this and kept trying to pull the entire dum dum off with his teeth, swim class got out. Floppy baby screaming, big kid whining he was cold because he just finished swimming, ten other parents looking at me like "I feel ya lady. I am so glad my floppy kid didn't get a taste of a dum dum, because why would you think that was a good idea?"

We finally made it towards the exit. Mason saw the bowl of dum dums and reminded me he was a good little swimmer and got some treats. The sign CLEARLY states "Take one per student please" and Mason grabbed three, because he's three. Seems rational to me. Then the cashier reminded me "Today's the last day to re-enroll for Fall" with a super huge annoying grin that meant GREAT, let me walk to my car in the 100 degree weather, grab my wallet, while making sure Mason kept up in lollipop lala land - and Max was still flopping and whining and pissed that he didn't have a bottle OR a dum dum.

I swear to you whenever I am in a hurry, the service industry is NOT. It's just like Murphy's law or whatever. So I'm standing at the cashier, patiently waiting to shell out a gross amount of money on Fall lessons and the two girls behind the desk are giggling and NOT HELPING ME RE ENROLL. Mommy spies chips a hoy - genuis - THIS will calm Max down. I buy them give each boy one, enroll and Monday has totally turned around. Score. We get in the car and I hand each bitty "the last cookie for the boy's" (words straight from the mouth of MOM) - you know, just to make it home with minimal chaos.

Max was satisfied. Cookies did him good. Mason though threw a fit because I wouldn't give him just one more cookie. Because he's three.

When we finally got home. I gave Mason another cookie. I gave Max a bottle out of guilt. 3 dum dums, 5 cookies and a regression back to the bottle all before noon? Mommy fail.

simple math.

2010-07-14T11:18:00.000-07:00

Sleep regression + first black eye = it's been one hell of a week around here.

The injury:

It's not as bad as it looks in this lighting. What's really comical about this injury (well, not really but you know) is that when Michael asked him how he got it he mentioned something about being hit by mommy, Michael looked at me like I had five heads. Yes, I forgot to mention how I socked our three year old in the eye and it resulted in a black eye. Remember this is the kid who also says Max is telling him _____________ (insert something entirely crazy) or told his teachers he had a pet penguin. He also told me that he'd turn two years old one day again. Umm, probably not honey. So clearly this witness needs to be removed from the courthouse. He is no longer considered a credible source. I'm fairly certain it was a toy to the eye by the much smaller brother in the house in addition to a bad bug bite. Sorry Mase, no one is buying your sob story that your mother is mean.

On an entirely different tangent, aren't his eyelashes beautiful? I mean hello, that is SO ridiculously UNFAIR to the female population in this household. Share some with mama please.

As far as sleep regression goes, well basically it's a sad truth people forget to inform you of when your super excited your infant is FINALLY SLEEPING THROUGH THE NIGHT. Then they just stop. It's like sleep strike. And do you know what happens when your baby (or preschooler *sigh*) don't sleep. YOU DON'T SLEEP. It is now taking Maximo a good 40 minutes to even fall to sleep. What is the deal!? He was my dream sleeper. Now he's all about screaming until I come get him again. And last night for the first time in FOREVER I was up rocking him at 4 AM. I'll admit the snuggle time was extremely enjoyable, until I woke up an hour later with an aching back from a not so comfortable glider.

Guess what happened the minute Max went back in his crib? More hysterics. I'm sorry Maximo - I love you, to the moon & back....but Mama is not really capable of holding you all night long while you snooze peacefully. If I did I'm fairly sure the preceding mornings would not be extremely enjoyable.

The good news is the black eye is healed. And sleep regression is supposed to stop. Someday.

thursday's ten.

2010-07-08T10:04:00.000-07:00

1. I started summer school today. And it's raining. Double yuck.

2. Nothing beats the smells of sunscreen.

3. I've already purchased close to 3/4ths of Mason's whole Fall wardrobe. But I'm not an overachiever. Not even close.

4. I want to plan a trip to New Orleans before September.

5. Max is totally full on walking and bottle weaning. I'd like a pause button, please and thank you.

6. I think margaritas have been half my caloric consumption all summer. Have I mentioned how much I LOVE SUMMER?! Because I love it almost as much as my children.

7. Two nights ago we started discussing and debating Halloween costume choices at the dinner table. Funny thing is my preschooler did not initiate this conversation. We really love Halloween. Maybe more than summer. And I swear I'm really not an overachiever.

8. We did our first summer 2010 Sea World trip with both boys Monday. It was too.much.fun.to.handle. The boys both loved it. I'll blog it later.

9. Fourth of July was awesome. Next year I need to get more festive on the kids outfits.

10. Photographic proof that my babies used to be babies, just a short year ago: