Disaster

Some of you may remember, a few months ago Scott's younger brother, Jay and his family lost their home to a fire. They lost all their tangible items. They essentially, had to start over with replenishing everything. With the generosity of family, friends, the Red Cross, and total strangers, they began their journey to try to get their life back in order and some sort of normalcy.

Their home was uninsured. In the interim, Jay, his wife, teenage daughter, two tween boys and his adopted child turned their camping trailer into their new home.

Disaster struck again, last Thursdays with the Spring storms. It has yet to be confirmed, but either a tornado or straight line winds hit their temporary home again. His wife was sent to the hospital and is still there. She is scheduled to have surgery Friday. I can't fathom what they are going through, nor the since of loss they all must be enduring.

Report Card

Unfortunately, I wish my kids where perfect all the time, but I have to remember they are just kids. I'm blogging about this so when my kids are older, they can reflect on all these memories, good and bad.

Last Friday, report cards were sent home. It was time for Ricky to go visit his Dad for the weekend, so I called Ricky to ask about his grades, even though I already knew what they were. I check my kids grades online often. Well, Ricky told me it wasn't sent home. I just left it at that.

Then, Monday, I get an email from his teacher stating Ricky turned in his report card supposedly signed by his Dad in pencil. She also said the signature didn't match one he signed before. I called his Dad to investigate. It turns out, Ricky forged his signature to cover up for his one failing grade of 69 in reading.

Ricky knows my pet peeve is lying. I am as honest with my kids as possible with everything. Ricky knew he was in big trouble when he got home. He's grounded at my house and I told his teacher I supported her 100% with what ever punishment she deemed necessary. Now, he doesn't get to participate with his friends on field day. I hope this is a lesson to him.

NOTE: On this same day, he found out he passed the math TAKS test.

Last name

Being a two year old, Allan hasn't quite figured out the blended family dynamics. When his sister or brother ignore him he calls them out by their full name. He says, "KICKY LYN!! and LENA DOW!!!" Bran is just Bran. It's so cute!

Surprise

I have been wanting a ring for my bare right hand for quite some time. If you know my husband, you know he's a simple guy, and extremely thoughtful. He just figured out about a year ago, though, after being together for over eight years, how much I LOVE jewelry. What girl doesn't??

We were eating dinner tonight at the dinner table and Elena asked, "Mom what's in that bag?" There was a bag on the bar. I said, "I don't know. Why don't you look?" I thought it was a gift bag in which Ricky had recently received from my parents with his January birthday gift in it. (Ricky finally made it to my parents house to get it.) But then, I noticed, the gift bag was different. I went to go investigate. I opened the box which I figured had my necklace that I thought I lost at Ricky's baseball game. (Remember?) I opened the box expecting to find my necklace with a new thicker chain. The necklace was in there as I expected along with this RING!!!!! I said, "OMG!!!!" Scott just smiled and said, "Happy Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, and whatever else is coming up." Really, it's my early Mother's Day gift. Thank you so much, Scottie too Hottie!!! I love it and you very much!!!

My Sister

I'm so lucky to have older siblings! I get to go places and do things they didn't get to do when they were my age. For instance, my Mommy took my sister and two of her friends to Six Flags, Friday after school. Her friends adore me and think I'm so cute. (Good looks run in my family.) I loved getting to ride some of the rides with my sister and her friends and all the attention. It was AWESOME and so much fun!!!!! I can't wait to go again.

My Daddy

Saturday night, I got to go to the Sanger (Ranger) beball (baseball) game with Mommy and Daddy. It was so FUN!!! I got to sit on my Daddy's lap and eat his Mexi Nachos, eventhough my Mommy bought me a hot dog and chips. I ate her fren fies (french fies) too. Then, my Daddy bought me cotton canny (candy). My Daddy even insisted he buy me a shirt. Mommy didn't want him to, Daddy said I couldn't leave without a souvenir. We didn't stay for the fireworks show because I was ready to go bye-bye.

Handy Man

This afternoon, Allan pulled up a chair and a couple of tools next to the goal post. I don't know what he was planning on fixing , but apparently, he's been observing Ricky.

Imagination

Allan: (with his thumb & index finger pinched together, trying to hand me something, happily)
Mommy here!

Mom: What is it Sweetie Pie?

Allan: (Excited) Canny (candy)

Mom: Really? Thank you Allan!

Wow! He's only two and a half & he's using his imagination already.

Lost & Found

Last week, I was certain I had lost my diamond necklace at Ricky's baseball game. I called the Team Mom to inquire about the location of lost and found and explained my ordeal to her. She told me her son has lost his ipod shuffle there too.

Two weeks prior Ricky had found an ipod in the boys restroom. He asked if he could keep it. I agreed he could, if we didn't find the owner. Well, it turns out, it belonged to the Team Mom's son. Ricky did the honest thing and returned it.

As for my necklace, Ricky also found it so I rewarded him with $20. It must have flung off when I took my shirt off to get ready for bed. I'm so thankful and relieved he found it!!!

Papa Canas

On our way home from grocery shopping tonight, Allan was insistent on calling Papa Canas. He kept repeating, "I anna talk to Papa Canas." So, I dialed the number and gave him the cell phone. He was jibber jabbering away. Lord, knows what he was saying, but he wanted to talk to him.

Weekend @ The Lake House

Scott took Elena and Brandon to her soccer game and I took Allan and Ricky to his baseball game. After the games, we met up at home and took off to the lake house. Of course, when we arrived, Scott, Allan and I went straight to take a nap, while Papa took the rest of the kids on a boat ride. They LOVED it! Here are some pics from the weekend.

Hanging out at the boat dock.

Brandon always posing!


Elena always taking care of her little brother.
What happen to your shorts Allan?
Bran has gotta be in the pic.

There we go............all three. Where's Ricky?

Allan's so HAPPY!

Lovin the Jacuzzi.

The little posers.

Elena and Bran are like glue.

Ricky is the smart one, he got his own bed.

Allan kicked Daddy outta bed, see how? Trust me, we didn't want him to sleep with us. He sleeps wild.

I got D.P. Mom must not be around.

See how happy I am?

I have D.P. & I'm outside!

Plus, I picked my Mom some Indian Paintbrushes. She's going to love 'em.

Check up

Scott and Brandon took Allan to the pediatrician on Friday for his long over due 2 yr wellness check up.......................6 months later. He's A o.k.! He now weighs 28.6 lbs. According to Scott, Allan only cried while the needle was in his thigh. As soon as it was removed, he quit. That's my boy! He's so tough!!!

Nursing Home

Friday evening, after Elena and Ricky arrived home from school, (Brandon had the day off.) we all went to visit my paternal grandmother at the nursing home, except Scott. (He stayed home because he was expecting "The Terminator" to come get rid of our unwanted "house guest" a.k.a squirrels.) She'll turn 85 on the 24th of this month.

After our short visit, I determined, when I become her age, each one of my kids get the pleasure of taking care of me on a rotating weekly basis. Sorry guys!

Elena The Artist

My daughter has always been interested in art. Last year, she was in the art club. This year, she chose art as an elective. Scott and I are both impressed with her artistic ability.

Her art class assignment was to draw a portrait of someone she looks up to. She drew a picture of Scott. She really loves her bonus Dad. He treats her like gold. He took the drawing and had it professionally framed.

Her long term goal is to become an attorney and be an artist in her leisure time.

Belated Birthday

If you know anything about me, then you know I LOVE picture frames. My husband gets mad because I will buy frames and not put pictures in them. I've gotten a little better though. I try to put pics in them as soon as I purchase a frame.

When I arrived from work Wednesday afternoon, Brandon had a gift bag for me and said, "Happy Birthday! I know it's late, but I wanted to get this for you."

100% of his class purchased a field day shirt, so each student was allowed to pick a prize. He's so sweet to think of me.

I have the perfect pic for it in mind. I'm going to put his baseball pic in it.

Note: My kids know I don't want gifts from them for any occasion. All I want is for them to spend time with me. Yet, they do.

Alarm

Some of you have heard me complain about a warehouse building built behind my house. It has completely obstructed my view of the city. Now, I have one more complaint to add to the list. Since Friday night, two alarms attached to this building have been ringing non-stop. We have, including our neighbors, called the police with no avail. The police have been unsuccessful contacting someone to disconnect it. (I'm sure if it were behind the mayor's home, there would have been a quick resolution.) I finally, was able to reach the project manager and voice my complaint and frustration of this nuisance. Supposedly, he was "out of town" and said he would make a few phone calls. Well, my husband and a neighbor took matters into their own hands. I thought he was going to shoot the alarm with his gun. Thank goodness, he didn't go that route. Don't think the thought didn't cross his mind. I told him I had made contact with the project manager and to just give him a hour. He said, "His hour expired on Friday." Instead, they went and disassembled the alarm. FINALLY, NO MORE RINGING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ranger Game

This past Tuesday the 8th was Opening Day at the Ballpark. Scott, Allan, Elena and I went to our first Ranger game for this season today. We debated on whether or not to go. The game started at 2:05. The time interfered with Allan's nap time, and he has to have one. We decided to go anyway.

I was happy not to have to pay for parking. I was able able to use my Six Flags season pass and park at their lot, which is across the street from The Rangers reserved parking, fyi.

We didn't get to watch the game in it's entirety. At 3:45, Allan started getting cranky and wanted to go bye-bye. I have no idea who won, Rangers or Toronto. Anybody know?

Evening out

Scott and I were invited to an engagement party, Saturday night. We had every intention of going.............until the yard work. Instead, since we only had Allan, we went out to eat at Cheddars. Allan is getting accustomed to dining out in public. (Knock on hard wood!) He's come along way and did amazingly well. I didn't have to swallow my food hurriedly and wonder why I thought it was a good idea to go out. We actually were able to chew, taste and enjoy our food. You parents of toddlers know what I'm speaking of.

Gardening

I cut the bottom shrubbs, then, Scott decided to lend me a hand. I guess, he thought I was going to "F" it up or myself with the electric hedge clippers.
I still need to add the cypress mulch and plant the flowers in the center. I did trim the rose tree alone.

I did this all by myself.....YEP, me! I need four more stones to finish, though.

My yard prior to the plumbing issue we had in November was perfect. Soft green grass you could walk barefoot on without shoes. Now, it looks like T total CRAP!!! I could no longer wait for Homer to come and make it beautiful again. I took matters into my own hands, against Scott's wishes. I know, what was I thinking?! (I had to prove Scott wrong. Don't tell me I can't do something.) I didn't do as good a job as Homer would do. He's a pro!!! Keep in mind I'm an amateur. Anyway, two hours of yard work that I'm not used to wore this Mexican out and I'm still not finished. I came in and took a two hour nap and my back still hurts. Someone still has to come out though to level out the yard. I know I can't do that.

Allowance

Elena earned her first week of allowance, which is $10. She's a working girl, now. Her chores entail cleaning her room, the daily upkeep of the kitchen and cleaning the bathroom once a week.

She managed to spend her allowance in one night too. She went skating with her friend the same evening she was paid. The entrance fee is $8. (She needs to go on Sundays when it's $6.)

Note: Her allowance is for her to spend on entertainment at her discression. I will continue to pay and provide her with all her needs.

Gina

Friday was my friend Gina's last day to drive an hour each way without traffic, paying tolls, and getting speeding tickets on her way to WHP. She's transferred to a location closer to home, which I completely understand. When she initially told me about her transfer, I told her I was happy she was happy (I totally understand the stress of the long commute and waisted time on the road.) but I was sad. It's not going to be the same not seeing her Monday thru Friday. I know we'll keep in touch, especially in blogger world.

It's been great working with her. We've know each other for eight years. We have so much in common. We're both from small towns, where everyone knows everyone. We don't know what a bong is. We're both level two's. The list is long.

Anyway, other than email because I don't have texting, we'll have our girls weekend.

Brotherly Love

Ricky called me this afternoon frantic and concerned. It was 4:40 and his sister wasn't home from school yet. He was worried. (He wasn't aware she was going to stay late after school.) Is that sweet or what? They are always annoyed with each other, and act like they can't tolerate one another, but it makes me happy they really do love one another sometimes.

Hands

Allan is following his sisters artistic path, except his canvas is his hands.

Favorite Aunt

If you know me, then you know who my favorite Aunt is. Many of you have heard me speak of her, always in good context. Well, I know, when I'm falling behind on my blog. She will call me and ask, as she did tonight, to find out what's going on? (Marla, now you know why I try to be diligent on my blog upkeep.)

Truth is, I've been busy with my kids. Between their friends coming over, going to their sporting events, Six Flags and having family over, not to mention my two year old and husband, my life is crazy!!! I planned on blogging Saturday night, but sleep peeked my interest a whole lot more. I'll try to do better. I promise!!

Allan's New Hideout

Where'd he go? (Wow! Elena doesn't have any laundy in there?!)

House Guest

For the past month or so, I've been telling my husband, I been hearing some strange noises coming from the ceiling, especially in the morning when I'm stepping out of the shower. I've come to the conclusion, he thought I was crazy because he's chosen to ignore me. He's never heard the noises. Us ladies, like to call it selective hearing. Anyway, Elena, pointed out to him one morning a squirrel crawling through the gable area. Now, that he has witnessed it, I've obtained my credibility.

Now, does any one have any suggestions on how to get rid of our unwanted house guest(s)?

Church

Elena spent the night with her friend who spent the night with her Friday night. Saturday night, they went roller skating again. Brianna told her to bring some nice clothes because they were going to 8 o'clock morning mass. I asked her what she packed. She said, "My plaid shorts and." I didn't even let her finish. I explained, something nice meant a skirt or dress. She responded with, "I'm not wearing no dress!" I made it clear she would wear something nice or she could could be dropped off at home after skating, end of discussion! She found something nice.

Poor Brandon

Elena and Ricky's friends went to Elena's soccer game, even though, the plan was for their friends to go home prior to the game, which was at noon. They begged if they could stay until after the game.

No one really wants to hang out with their little brother when their friends are over. Good thing, Mama, brought cousins to play with. She even brought lunch! (Barbacova) Which was AWESOME!!!! Thanks Mom!!!

By the way, The Warriors, (Elena's team) won four to zip.

Roller Skating

Friday night, Elena and Ricky each had a friend spend the night. After we ate pizza, I took them, including Brandon, roller skating. Elena has been asking me for a while to take her because "ALL" her friends go every Friday.

I was one of about seven parents there with about 300 junior kids. All the other parents just dropped off there kids and left. Am I wrong for staying? I trust my kids. I just don't trust all the crazies out there. I sat in a corner, reading my borrowed People magazine from the office, trying to go unnoticed. I know my kids have an "image," but I'm sorry, their safety is my concern.

Donation

Last week, Elena asked if she could donate (my money) to a student who lost her mother and sister in an auto accident. Her junior high was collecting for a freshman student. I asked her what she was going to do for me. (While her heart is in the right place, it always seems to affect my pocket.) She said, "I would say I would clean the bathroom, but it's not worth cleaning for a dollar." I told her I wasn't going to "just" give her a dollar. She ended up cleaning the bathroom, so I gave her five dollars. Had she known her personally, we would have donated more.

Junk or Treasure?

One man's junk is another man's treasure. Yesterday, a woman that lives in our cul-de-sac asked Ricky if he wanted a basketball goal. Her teenager no longer wanted it. Although we already have one, (Uncle Theo and Aunt Jennifer gave my kids one for Christmas a few years back.) he asked me if it was o.k. He said it was in great condition. I agreed he could accept it. After he drug it home, he proudly asked what I thought about it. I said well, "It looks like it needs a new net." He said no problem, he would get a new one for it. He's so appreciative of it.

Then, Scott arrives from work and says to me, "So that lady didn't know how to get rid of her crap so she gave it to us?!" Ricky didn't get that trait from me. He got it from his Dad's side of the family.

Now, the kids have set my drive way up like a basketball court. They have a goal post on each end. There goes my parking spot!

Bath Time

Ricky: (Sneakish) Allan wanna take a bath with me?

Allan: (Irritated) NO, Kicky! Bubble bath, Lena!!!

Elena: (Sweetly) Allan wanna take a bath with me? (Yelling) Ricky he wants to take a bath with me.

Ricky: (Undermining) MOM! Can Allan take a bath with me?

Mom: (Passive) Sure.

Elena: (Aggravated) MOM! Allan wants to take a bath with me!! Ricky always does this to me. He tries to get Allan to do what I want to do.

I'm extremely glad my kids love Allan so much, but it's annoying when they compete for his attention. I love the fact they are so helpful and I don't have to get a backache to bathe him. Thanks kids! Really, I think they like playing with Allan's bath toys and using his bubble bath. (Wink! Wink! Nudge! Nudge!)

Me time

Sunday, I was home alone. Scott took Elena and Allan to Brandon's baseball game while I stayed home to clean house. It's amazing what you can do without any interruptions. When I finished, I had some time to myself before they returned home. I didn't know what to do!!!! This was a rarity for me! FREE TIME. Mom's never get free time. At least, none that I know of. I went to Kohl's, even though there wasn't any things in particular I was looking for. I walked out empty handed. (I'm sure my husband thanks me.) I also went grocery shopping at WalMart and browsed without any of my kids distracting and trying to get my to purchase items not on "the list." After I bought food, I came back home and made ME lunch. I ate what I wanted and in peace. No interruptions! I read the Sunday paper, surfed the net. Then, I became bored with that. I felt I should be doing something productive. Don't tell my family, while I enjoyed my time alone, I missed them.