Summer

Friday, July 27, 2012 4:56 PM

Jacob’s last day for his summer program is today. School starts in less than 3 weeks and I need to take the boys school shopping. Aaron is never home between band and work and a girlfriend. So, I don’t know when I can take him school shopping. Ben, Jacob and I are going school shopping one day next week. At least I’ll be able to get the two of them ready for school.  Ben will be watching Jacob next week but I’m not sure that’s a good idea. However, Ben did it last year and they both survived.  Aaron will be at band camp next week so he won’t be around at all. I just can’t believe summer’s almost over and I didn’t even get to the beach this year. Maybe I’ll get to go next year.  We really didn’t get to do anything fun this summer.  Not that we ever go on a big vacation but we usually go to NJ to see my family. We didn’t even do that this summer. How and why is life getting away from me? I need to take some time to “smell the roses” as they say. If I can only figure how…

Snuggles

Monday, July 23, 2012 4:57 PM

Its official, we have a cat…Snuggles.  She is white with large gray spots. I tried to convince Jacob to name the cat Patches but he wouldn’t change his mind. I know Jacob should be the one to name the cat what he wants to name her.  I just thought in a few years when Jacob is 12 or 13 he may not want to call the cat…Snuggles.  It is just a hunch…but a good one.   Since Snugglse is a female and will be outside, she needs to be fixed and have her shots also. I don’t need to have 15 cats running around my house.  So, I’m working on locating an assistance program to aid in the cost of this.  I have 2 possibilities which is a start.  Hopefully, I can get Snuggles fixed soon before it’s too late. BTW…how do I explain that one to Jacob???

Its official, we have a cat…Snuggles.  She is white with large gray spots. I tried to convince Jacob to name the cat Patches but he wouldn’t change his mind. I know Jacob should be the one to name the cat what he wants to name her.  I just thought in a few years when Jacob is 12 or 13 he may not want to call the cat…Snuggles.  It is just a hunch…but a good one.   Since Snugglse is a female and will be outside, she needs to be fixed and have her shots also. I don’t need to have 15 cats running around my house.  So, I’m working on locating an assistance program to aid in the cost of this.  I have 2 possibilities which is a start.  Hopefully, I can get Snuggles fixed soon before it’s too late. BTW…how do I explain that one to Jacob???

New pet

Wednesday, July 18, 2012 5:10 PM

Well, I think we have a new pet. I feed a stray cat on Sunday night and now it’s living on my porch. What was I to do? The cat was meowing so loudly because it was starving.  Ben told me not to feed it because it would never leave. I knew he was right but I had pity for her. So I gave the cat some milk and some dog food. The cat came back Monday night and had some more milk. Then the cat played with Jacob for a while. Jacob is soooo excited he already loves this cat. I told Jacob in 1 week if the cat was still coming around our house, he could name it. Jacob wants to name the cat Snuggles. When I got up yesterday, the cat was sleeping on my porch. I stopped at the store yesterday and bought cat food and a dish for Snuggles. I guess she’s staying but outside. We have a dog in the house who wants to eat the cat. Really…so the cat has to stay outside. I think this cat was an indoor cat because she keeps trying to sneak in the house.  As long as the cat doesn’t jump in my pool and drown, I think Jacob will be thrilled with our new pet.

Test

Friday, July 13, 2012 4:43 PM

Aaron is at the DMV taking his driving test as I sit here at my desk working. I’m so nervous almost as much as Aaron is. I’ve been saying a prayer for him to pass the test all week. I even have my fingers crossed. Aaron and I went to the DMV to practice last night and I think he’s really ready this time but wouldn’t you know it….it’s raining todayLAaron hasn’t driven much in the rain so I’m a little worried. I know…I know…he’ll be fine.

So, an hour later…Aaron is actually taking the driving test. I text his dad to see what was going on because I couldn’t wait any longer. Aaron was parallel parking and his dad wasn’t watching so I guess I wasn’t the only nervous parent. Guess what…Aaron passed his driving test!  What a relief! I’m so happy for him. Now there is an entirely different type of worrying that has begun. 

re-try

Tuesday, July 10, 2012 8:40 PM

I’ve felt extremely bad for Aaron all weekend because he failed his driving test. I didn’t sleep well at all. I know Aaron didn’t sleep well either but I think he’s doing much better now. I showed him where everything is located in the car and we’ll go over it again before he retakes his test. I think he’s got it now. Aaron wants to take the test again on Friday afternoon. Since we were at the DMV for 2 hours last week, I can’t take Aaron and spend that much time away from work again. So, I think Aaron’s dad may take him to try to get his license. I know I should be happy about this but I’m not. I’ve been the one who has taught Aaron to drive 100%. His dad hasn’t taking Aaron driving one time. Not once. He hasn’t helped with anything at all. So, I’d like to be the person there when Aaron passes the test. I want to see the joy and excitement on his face. I know that sounds a little selfish. I should just be happy Aaron will get to try again…and I am.

Failure

Friday, July 6, 2012 5:50 PM

Why do I feel as if I failed my kids?  I try and try to be a good mom yet I seem to struggle so much. Ben is a good hearted child but he is always so miserable…or is it just an act for attention? Aaron is a good son also who doesn’t get in any trouble. My main complain about Aaron is that he doesn’t pay attention. I have to repeat myself to him constantly.  Well today was one of those times where I know I’ve told Aaron before yet he forgot or just didn’t pay attention. I took Aaron for his driver license but he didn’t pass. He couldn’t remember where the high beams where in the car. I felt terrible for him yet I know I’ve shown Aaron. I will say he hasn’t driven a lot at night and has never used the high beams before but I thought Aaron knew where they were. It would have taken me just a few seconds before the test to show him where they were but I didn’t think of it. Aaron is embarrassed now and doesn’t even want to talk about it. My poor son will have to live with this the rest of his life. I know once he passes the test he’ll feel much better. He has to wait 1 week before he can try again. So wish Aaron luck! 

Update

Friday, June 29, 2012 4:55 PM

Wow! It sure is hot. Jacob’s at the pool today thank goodness.  He gets to go swimming on Monday, Wednesday and Friday each week at his summer program. If today wasn’t a pool day I would have kept Jacob home with Ben and Aaron. They would have protested about that but it’s just too hot to be outside unless you’re in water.

Aaron still hasn’t gone to take his driver’s license test. We’ve decided to go one day next week. I sure hope he passes because I really need him to start driving. Band practice starts in a week and a half. He’s also working at Wal-mart on the weekends now and I’m tired of taking him places. I’m just not sure I’m ready for him to have that kind of freedom.  I shouldn’t worry about it so much because Aaron is a good kid or should I say young man.

Ben on the other hand is a handful.  He is extremely stubborn and abrasive. What I mean is this…he doesn’t consider other people’s feelings. It’s all about what Ben wants and what he doesn’t want.  How do I make him understand that he can’t have everything his way all of the time? He almost sounds spoiled but I assure you I don’t give him everything and I never have. On the other hand, Ben is a hard worker and determined to do a good job. Maybe I need to give him a little more credit. That’s sure something to think about… 

Parallel Park

Tuesday, June 26, 2012 3:02 PM

I REALLY need Aaron to get his driver’s license. I’ve had him driving me everywhere and he’s gotten much better but I’m still not sure he’s ready to be set free. How do you know when they’re ready? Do I just put my faith in the DMV?  If Aaron passes, he passes and if not keep trying? Do you know what’s a really scary thought…trying to teach Ben to drive. I’m not ready for that at all. UGH! I’ve also been trying to teach Aaron to Parallel Park which is very difficult because I suck at it.  We both watched a video on “you tube” which really helped us both but Aaron still needs a little more practice. I’ve include the link below so you can learn or teach someone to parallel park. Wish us luck!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dJ-loe3xXLg 

TGIF!

Friday, June 22, 2012 5:23 PM

The weekend is finally here.  It’s always tough at work the week after vacation but I made it…barely! Jacob has enjoyed his first week of summer camp mostly because of the swimming. Ben has been home part of the day yesterday and today by himself so he’s happy. Aaron went on a boat at the lake today with some friends so he’ll be tired for work tonight. I need to go grocery shopping again. Those kids are eating me out of house and home. When I buy a bag of Doritos, I better open them in the car before I get home and have a few or I won’t get any at all. I’m serious. Those boys of my sure like to eat but you can’t tell it by looking at them! I may need to get a second job just to feed them this summer….  TGIF!!!

Fathers

Tuesday, June 19, 2012 5:07 PM

I hope all of the “dads” out there had a Happy Father’s Day! It takes a certain type of man to be a real dad and I know many of them. I also know some men who should be ashamed to call themselves “dad”.  Since I’m raising 3 young men on my own, I have come to realize the importance a male role model is for young boys. I suppose I fulfill that requirement to a certain degree but I know “mom” is not the same as “dad” and vice versa. Boys tend to idolize their fathers even if that man doesn’t qualify as a role model. From what I see, in some boys this creates an internal conflict. They are torn between what they know to be right and what they see. Being a parent isn’t easy but neither is being a child. Who is the adult??? If you are one of those parents who are truly a role model for children, you should be proud of yourself.

Happy Father’s Day! 

Staycation

Thursday, June 14, 2012 9:19 PM

Vacation or staycation has been great! We haven’t done much other than be lazy. The kids did have a few doctors’ appointments and I had some car maintenance done. Aaron got glasses for the first time but he’ll only need them to drive. Aaron also got a job at Wal-Mart and went for orientation yesterday. I think I’m more excited about his new job then he is.  Aaron won’t be working much just mostly on the weekends so he’ll still be able to be in band. Ben has been playing the X-box mostly with Jacob.  They fight occasionally but it’s going better then I expected. Ben also read the 1^st book of the Hungry Games in less than a week so I’m really happy that Ben did something other than play X-box. Jacob and Aaron went swimming in the pool but the water is still a little green. For some reason, I’m having a lot of trouble getting the pool clear this year. I think my filter needs new sand…UGH! 

Go outside

Friday, June 8, 2012 4:57 PM

I remember when I was a kid, in the summer I use to play outside. My friends and I would ride our bikes, play UNO, or find something else to do. We didn’t sit in the house all day watching TV or playing the Atari.  Yeah, I said the Atari. I remember listening to the radio outside while we played cards or just talked. Today, my kids just want to sit around the house all day. They watch TV, play video games or get on the computer. Rarely do my kids say, “I went outside to play today”. So last night after dinner, I told the boys to go outside to play.  I heard a lot of whining and complaining from them but I told them to go out for 30 minutes.  They all actually went outside.  Aaron shot some hoops while Ben and Jacob wrestled around. When 30 minutes were up, they were all right back in the house. My hope was once they were all out the door they would stay there for longer then 30 minutes.  So I guess that was a mistake and next time I won’t give them a time limit.

 Do you have the same problem during the summer with your kids?  

Teenagers

Wednesday, June 6, 2012 5:03 PM

Teenagers…UGH!  I can’t wait for summer vacation to be over already. I know I shouldn’t be so negative but the kids are already fighting. The boys are going through snacks and cereal like they’ve never seen food before. They want to stay up all night and play the x-box then sleep until noon. So, if the boys stay up late I have more difficulty sleeping. I can hear them talking or in the bathroom. I’m having trouble getting Jacob to bed at a decent hour because Aaron and Ben are staying up later. I need sleep….I’m a busy women and I’m getting old. I almost wish school was in session year round. I believe kids should have a break but is 12 weeks really necessary? I’m beginning to believe it’s not at all. What do you think?

Pass

Friday, June 1, 2012 10:14 AM

Today is the last day of school…finally. Ben just missed going to summer school by the skin of his teeth.  If it wasn’t for the group project the teacher assign and the final he would be in summer school.  It’s Ben’s own fault. Ben doesn’t apply himself as he should in school. In middle school, Ben was able to slack a little then play catch up with his work but high school is different and Ben had trouble catching up. The fact that he was in honors classes probably did help him either. My hope is that next year Ben will apply himself.  He certainly won’t be taking anymore honors classes. What bothers me is that I know Ben is capable of doing the work, he just won’t. He is the most stubborn person I have met other than myselfJMaybe this summer school scare is what he need to get his self in gear with school.  Only time will tell. 

Help!

Tuesday, May 29, 2012 5:32 PM

So after 5 days on steroids, Aaron is still itchy but not as bad as he was. I sure hope this medicine stops the itching completely.  I’m a little worried because I think after 5 days of steroids most of the itching should be gone and it isn’t.  Aaron is still taking Benadryl also which makes him sleepy.  I really have no idea what is causing this reaction in Aaron. I’ve bought him hypo-allergenic shower gel and changed the laundry detergent to a free and clear detergent.  My sisters are allergic to soaps and detergents so I thought this was a good place to start…but no luck.  What next?  I’ll wait another week until Aaron’s finished with the steroids.  If he’s still having issues I guess I’ll have to have him allergy tested.  What else could it be? I’m at a loss.  Any suggestions? 

Shot in the rear

Friday, May 25, 2012 4:15 PM

Poor Aaron, he has had a rash or hives since March. It’s not a constant issue but it has gotten worse lately. He will beak out randomly on his hands, arms, neck, chest and also his head. Then suddenly, it will go away. I took him to the doctor last month and was told Aaron had hives and was an allergic reaction to something. The doctor told me to give Aaron Benadryl. The other night Aaron got in the car and immediately took his shoes and socks off and started scratching his feet. The poor kid was extremely miserable.  So, I took him back to the doctor it hopes of getting Aaron put on a steroid to relieve the itching. The doctor agreed with me about the steroid but instead of pills she gave Aaron a steroid shot in the rear. I couldn’t help but chuckle because I’ve had one of those shots before and it burns.  I felt as if my butt was on fire. Aaron was a little nervous about it but he did just fine. It only burns for 5 or so minutes but that feels like an eternity. Unfortunately, the shot didn’t solve the problem and Aaron is still itching all over. So, now Aaron’s on steroid pills for 12 days.  I sure hope they work.  The boy is so itchy he has been getting cold showers to try to sooth the itch. I don’t know what else to do for him…UGH!     

Counting sheep

Tuesday, May 22, 2012 4:56 PM

Jacob has trouble falling asleep sometimes at night. He’ll toss and turn and flop on the bed. A few months ago, I told him to count sheep to help him fall asleep. Jacob didn’t know what I meant so I explained it to him. I told Jacob to picture a fence with sheep jumping over it and to count the sheep as they jumped. Jacob thought I was being a little strange but I assured him it would work. So, he tried it but Jacob had trouble the first few times he tried to count sheep to help him sleep. He actually told me he couldn’t picture the sheep so he couldn’t count them. I told him to try again and make sure his eyes were closed. I don’t know If this idea ever worked for Jacob or not but I thought he should try it.

So, last night Jacob was having trouble going to sleep again.  I told him once again to count sheep. Jacob said, “I’ll try”. Next thing I know I hear him talking but I can’t make out all of what he was saying. He repeated it for me. This is what Jacob was saying, “I have my meadow and a fence. Now I have hay bails and my sheep”. I thought this was too cute. I told Jacob he was all set to count his sheep. Then he added, “There are a few horses over there and a few wolves behind the trees”. “Wolves” I said. Jacob replied, “Yup”! I told him I didn’t think the wolves were a very good idea but I liked the rest of his scene.   I don’t know if Jacob ever counted the sheep but he fell right asleep. What a great imagination that boy has.  I hope Jacob uses it in the future. 

Field trip

Friday, May 18, 2012 4:37 PM

Jacob and I got to go on his class trip on Wednesday.  Apparently, his teacher was trying to scare him into being good in class.  Guess what…it worked.  He was very good.  We went to Prickett’s Fort for the day and what a beautiful day it was.  All of the 2^ndgrade classes went on the trip. Jacob was very interested in the presentations that were given that day.  He even bought his camera.  When the blacksmith began his presentation, Jacob got out his camera.  I thought he was going to take a few pictures but no, Jacob video taped the entire presentation.  I was amazed.  I’m not sure if he was actually that interested in the presentation or if it was the camera that had Jacob’s attention. Regardless, Jacob listened and watched intently.  At the next stop, the farmer, Jacob began video taping the presentation but his SD card was full so he had to stop. I think Jacob would have recorded everyone there if he could have.  I guess I need invest in a video camera for him.  Maybe he’ll have a career in video production one day.  

Class trip

Tuesday, May 15, 2012 5:08 PM

Jacob and I are going on his class trip tomorrow…I think anyway. Last week I signed up to chaperone the trip because Jacob wanted me to go.  I thought it would be nice to spend the day with him.  Jacob informed me on Sunday night he may not be allowed to go on the trip because he was bad for the substitute teacher last Wednesday but he was good for her on Friday. So, I asked him why he was bad. Of course, Jacob didn’t know why he was bad. I had a long talk with him and told Jacob how it was extremely important for him to not disrupt his class. Also, I really wanted to go on the trip with him so he needed to be very good in school the next few days so we could go. So, I expected him to be good yesterday in school but he wasn’t. I don’t know what to do with Jacob. I’ve tried rewards and punishment but nothing works. I guess we’re still going on the class trip tomorrow since I haven’t heard anything at all from the teacher.  I suppose she was trying to scare Jacob into submission.  I don’t think it worked…  

Happy Mother's Day

Friday, May 11, 2012 3:55 PM

I really don’t remember a Mother’s Day in which I spent it with my mom.  Sadly, I lost her very tragically at a young age. I remember Christmas and Easter and even a few birthdays but not Mother’s Day. As a child, I didn’t realize I would miss having a mother to share such a holiday with.  I am certain that my boys don’t have any idea what it would be like and I hope they don’t have to know for a long time. Until recently I hadn’t given it much thought either.  I’ve always blocked out the fact that I’ve grown up with out my mom. As my boys get older I’ve started realizing that very soon 1 or 2 of them may move out or go away to college. Things will never be the same once that happens. Life will once again change dramatically for me and this time for them. So I’ve decided to find a way to make our Mother’s Day special for all of us.  I’m not sure how or what to do in order to make it special.  Maybe I need to get some input from the kids.

How do you make your Mother’s Day special?   

I really don’t remember a Mother’s Day in which I spent it with my mom.  Sadly, I lost her very tragically at a young age. I remember Christmas and Easter and even a few birthdays but not Mother’s Day. As a child, I didn’t realize I would miss having a mother to share such a holiday with.  I am certain that my boys don’t have any idea what it would be like and I hope they don’t have to know for a long time. Until recently I hadn’t given it much thought either.  I’ve always blocked out the fact that I’ve grown up with out my mom. As my boys get older I’ve started realizing that very soon 1 or 2 of them may move out or go away to college. Things will never be the same once that happens. Life will once again change dramatically for me and this time for them. So I’ve decided to find a way to make our Mother’s Day special for all of us.  I’m not sure how or what to do in order to make it special.  Maybe I need to get some input from the kids.

How do you make your Mother’s Day special?   

I

Birthday

Wednesday, May 9, 2012 4:57 PM

Jacob had a wonderful time at his birthday party. I wish I knew where 8 year old boys got their energy. It’s as if it is all bottled up inside of them. This was even before we had cake and ice cream! I could really use some of that energy right now. They boys played outside for a while but when they started wrestled on the ground I had to organize a kickball game.  Aaron was the pitcher and Ben was the referee. They all had a blast!  Some of them were really good kickers and crushed the other team. I’m glad the party was for only 2 hours because that was plenty of time and I was completely wore out afterwards. I did a basketball theme for the party which Jacob loved. After kickball we had cake and ice cream but the kids barely sat still long enough to eat it. Then Jacob opened his presents.  I was so proud of him; he actually read all of the birthday cards out loud to all of us. He got some really great gifts and a few I think I’d like to return from my girlfriend. Not really but Jacob will be beating up his brothers with a few of them.  Oh well, I’m sure he owes them a few.   

Happy Birthday Day!

Friday, May 4, 2012 3:32 PM

Yesterday was Jacob’s 8t birthday. I can’t believe how fast the time has gone and how my life has changed since then. Actually, all of our lives have changed so much since Jacob was born. There have been many adjustments and sacrifices but we’re doing fine. Tonight I’m having a birthday party for Jacob.  I hope it doesn’t storm tonight because I’d like to play some games outside with the kids. Jacob is so excited for his friends to be coming over to our house. Aaron and Ben are naturally a little less excited about having a bunch of 8 year olds around the house tonight but I’m sure everything will be fine. I have cake and ice cream for the party. I’m also getting pizza for dinner even thought I don’t think here will be too much interest in dinner. I don’t have much time after work to get the pizza and get home so I’m hoping the traffic won’t be bad. I picked the birthday cake up on my lunch and it’s sitting right next to me.  Do you think it would be noticeable if there was a small piece missing for the cake?  I’m really tempted…

Happy Birthday Day Little Man!   

Friday

Thursday, April 26, 2012 5:10 PM

Today is my Friday…yeah!  The boys don’t have school tomorrow because the county is trying to make up for the lack of snow days.  I really don’t know why the county didn’t let the kids out of school early at the end of the school year instead.  That’s my preference anyway.  So, tomorrow all of the boys have a doctor’s appointment for a physical exam.  We may also go to lunch but that’s all of the fun we have planned for tomorrow.  Aaron and Jacob haven’t had an exam for about 2 years.  I feel just awful about it but it’s extremely difficult to fit everything in when you work. A lot of the time when the kids don’t have school the doctor’s office is closed.  At least they are all going tomorrow.  We’ll be there half the day…UGH! 

Single parents

Tuesday, April 24, 2012 4:16 PM

Aaron and Ben both worked last night from 6-10 PM keeping score at volleyball matches here in town.  It was a little tough for me to get across town, pick them up at home, then get Jacob from school and finally get them to work but I did it.  There isn’t enough time for me to get Jacob afterwards…I’m pressed for time as it is.  Fortunately, there wasn’t much traffic at all yesterday. Also, I had to go pick them up at 10:00 PM which meant I had to take Jacob with me.  So Jacob got to bed a little late last night and was a little of a bear this morning. I sure can’t wait until Aaron gets his drivers license so I don’t have to do so much running around.  Being a single mom is tough sometimes and this is certainly one of those times. I think most parents share in the responsibility of their children especially if there is more than 1 child. It can get challenging to have 3 kids in 3 different places and be the only person who can get them or to have a younger child who should be in bed but he can’t be left alone. I didn’t realize how difficult it can be on single parents until I became one myself. Hang in there…kids are only young once! 

Pants?

Friday, April 20, 2012 11:13 AM

The weather here as been crazy. One day it’s 85 degrees the next 50 degrees. My allergies are just terrible. I don’t know how to dress myself let alone the kids. Aaron and Ben of course pick out their own cloths but occasionally I’ll tell them they should wear pants vs. shorts if it’s going to be cold. Jacob on the other hand, I pick out his cloths. Sometimes I don’t know how I should dress so how am I supposed to dress Jacob? This morning when Jacob and I got in the car it was a little chilly.  He was wearing shorts and I’m wearing Capri’s. I told Jacob it was going to warm up to 81 degrees today. Jacob said to me, “Why do you have pants on then?” I told him I didn’t have pants on, they are Capri’s.  Jacob then said, “Why aren’t you wearing shorts if it’s going to be hot today?” I told Jacob I had to go to work. Jacob said, “So, you should wear shorts.” I told Jacob I couldn’t wear shorts to work.  Jacob seemed a little confused but I explained that we had rules at work and one of those rules is that we are not allowed to wear shorts. Jacob was satisfied with that answer for now anyway.  It would be nice at times to wear shorts to work but I’m happy just to be wearing Capri’s today. Enjoy the sunshine...

Driving

Tuesday, April 17, 2012 4:39 PM

Ben has been pestering me to get his driving permit since he turned 15 in March. I’ve told Ben repeatedly he has to pull his grades up if he wants to drive.  Ben says he’s trying and I think he is but it’s only been 2 or 3 weeks since he got his report card and 1 week of that was spring break. So, at the end of the school year I’ll decide if he can get his permit. I’m not sure if I can handle teaching Aaron and Ben both how to drive. Aaron almost gives me a heart attack when he drives as it is. He hasn’t gotten to drive much over the winter so lately Aaron has been my chauffer. The boy tried to drive through a bush last night. Aaron said he thought he could clear it.   I really don’t know how Aaron thought that was going to be possible…the front end of the car was headed straight for the large bush. UGH!  Aaron’s turns are terrible also because he goes to fast.  This is turning out to be a very painful process for me.  So, why would I be in a hurry for Ben to get his permit when I haven’t survived Aaron’s driving yet? I’m not! 

Recovery

Friday, April 13, 2012 4:36 PM

Aaron is doing very well after having his wisdom teeth removed.  He went back to school on Tuesday but was a little weak. I bought him protein drinks to take with him for lunch but he forgot his lunch on Tuesday. I raced back to the house from the bus stop like a mad woman to get it. However, I didn’t make it back to the bus stop in time to give the lunch to Aaron.  Fortunately, Aaron and Ben made the bus but with no lunch. I was in my PJ’s with a towel on my head….yeah…pretty picture. I ended up taking Aaron’s lunch to school for him.  Poor boy has to be starving by now. I couldn’t let him go all day with nothing to eat. All he can eat is soft food still but I think he’s doing great.  I can’t imagine having 4 teeth cut out at once. Most people don’t like going to the dentist and I can’t blame them at all. I believe that following the oral surgeon’s instructions for post-surgery was the best I could’ve done for Aaron. So…listen to your doctor! 

Surgery

Monday, April 9, 2012 4:56 PM

Aaron had all 4 of his wisdom teeth removed on Friday. I felt so bad for him. I scheduled the surgery 2 months ago. We were hoping to have it done before his Florida trip but we decided it would be best to wait until after the trip.  So, spring break became the perfect time for Aaron’s surgery. The day before the surgery it was determined that the doctor wasn’t in network. What that basically means is instead of paying $25.00 co-pay per visit plus 10% of the bill, I have to meet my deductible of $500.00 and then pay 30% of the bill.  What! The insurance company told me this particular doctor was in network now the doctor isn’t…really?  Apparently, no oral surgeon in town is in network.  So, I decided to foot the bill and proceed with the surgery. What other choice did I have? I hope they’ll take payments.  Any way, Aaron is doing great after the surgery. He’s eating mashed potatoes and macaroni & cheese mostly.  I bought him some protein drinks for his lunch at school this week.  He can also have applesauce, pudding and yogurt. Aaron didn’t even swell much at all. He’s been sleeping in the recliner in the living room because he feels better being propped up.  I’m very please with the oral surgeon and Aaron progress.  

Yard work

Tuesday, April 3, 2012 4:25 PM

The kids are on spring break this week. They’re just lounging around the house in the PJ’s, watching TV or playing the X-box. Yesterday, I warned all of them that when I got home from work we would be doing yard work but not until after I told them we were having pizza for dinner (a favorite for them).  I did have to crack the whip a little after we ate dinner.  The back yard needed mowed so bad I thought they would need the weed whacker to get through the forest back there but Ben insisted the lawn mower would work.  It did work but I think the grass needs cut a 2^ndtime but that wouldn’t happen. We all worked hard…even Jacob.  I had him spraying the weeds.  We’ll see what else he killed in the process. Hopefully, he sprayed the weed killer good on the pompous grass. I hate that stuff!  There is still more work to do in the yard but I feel much better now. I (I guess I should say “we”) dread all of the yard work we have in the summer. Ben and I also had a burn pile that we took care of last night.  I honestly think he enjoyed that.  I suppose that’s all the fun we have planned for the week…  

ISS???

Friday, March 30, 2012 3:54 PM

ISS…do you know what that means?  I do now and I’m not happy about it. ISS is internal school suspension.  I’ll give you 1 guess who has ISS.  It’s not for what I’d call a serious offense…fortunately.  Yes, Ben is the guilty party here. Ben has been late to gym class 10 times this year so now he has ISS. Ben and I have discussed this issue in the past.  He doesn’t have enough time in between classes to get his gym cloths so he’s frequently late for class. I’ve told him to get his cloths sooner so he wouldn’t be late. Of course he didn’t listen to me. Now that Ben has ISS he has been getting his cloths earlier in the day.  If Ben is late 2 more times he will have afterschool suspension which better not happen. I am a little upset with the school because Ben’s 10^thlateness was on March 8^th.  I just received the letter in the mail yesterday which was 1 day shy of 4 weeks after the lateness.  Ben’s ISS day isn’t until April 11^th.  I think that is way to long to wait.  I fell I should have been notified much sooner about this situation.  What takes so long for the school to send out a short letter? I decided to write a short note on the paper letting the assistant principal know I was unhappy. My note won’t do anything but at least I let him know how I felt. So for part of Ben’s punishment, I had him clean the underneath of the push mower yesterday. I’ve decided that work and lots of it will be his punishment from now on.  

Jealous

Tuesday, March 27, 2012 4:57 PM

Aaron had a great time in Orlando.  Universal Studios was his favorite part or more specifically The Harry Potter section. The trip took them about 20 hours on a charter bus which included a few stops along the way. I’m so glad Aaron had a great time.  Ben finally admitted to me over the weekend that he was a little upset that Aaron got to go to Florida. I knew Ben was a little jealous but then again so was I. Aaron had a great opportunity and Ben would have had it also if he had quit band a few years ago. Over all though, I think Ben handled the jealousy ok. Jacob didn’t say too much about the trip other then he wished he could go too.

Tonight I’m taking the boys to see the Globetrotters.  To my surprise, even Ben wanted to go watch the show. We have seen them perform before so Ben knows it will be a good show. Jacob told me to bring $20.00 so I could buy him something.  Little does he know…$20.00 won’t buy very much there.  I hope we don’t get home too late, I’m already tired and it’s only Tuesday.  I guess it’ll be a long week. 

Plans

Friday, March 23, 2012 12:14 PM

Aaron made it to Florida…what a relief.  Now if he can just manage to survive the weekend. Aaron told me he had too much to remember so I would need to text him while he was away so he wouldn’t forget. I traveled at his age and didn’t have a cell phone and I managed just fine.  I think Aaron has become to dependant on me. This trip will be good for him.  The band has a busy trip planned with not much sleep allotted for the kids.  I’m sure it’ll be fine…they’re young.

Ben is watching Jacob for me today since there’s no school.  I’m a little concerned since they fight so much.  Jacob woke up just as I was trying to leave for work this morning so I had to wake Ben up.  I’m sure he wasn’t too happy.  I’m planning to take them to the movies this weekend since it’s going to rain. I also need to take Ben shopping for summer cloths which will be a nightmare. We have some yard work to do but I really want to try to have some fun with Ben and Jacob this week end but it doesn’t look as if the weather is going to cooperate so the movies will have to do. I need to find a movie that is suitable for the both of them. Any suggestions? 

Trip

Tuesday, March 20, 2012 5:20 PM

I did it!  I shopped and shopped for Aaron’s Florida trip. I bought cloths, toiletries and snacks.  Everything fit him except 1 pair of shorts. I spent way too much money also.  It’s truly amazing how much vacation supplies cost for 1 person.  Of course, I did buy the travel size toiletries. I think it would have cost me about the same amount of money if I had bought the regular size items.  Isn’t that ridiculous??? He’s all packed and ready to go.  He is so excited and I’m excited for him.  Aaron has never been away like this before.  I remember when I was in high school and going to Florida. WOW! What a long time ago but we had a great time. I can’t believe Aaron will be 17 years old in a few weeks. Where does the time go?  One minute I’m rocking my baby in the chair and the next I’m packing to send him to Florida. Enjoy every minute with your children because they will be grown before you know it.  

Panick

Friday, March 16, 2012 4:16 PM

I have a billion things to do to get Aaron ready for his Florida trip next week. I went over the itinerary with Aaron but I will need to do that again with him before he leaves for Florida. Aaron admitted to me that he was only partially listening…UGH! I started making a list of items I will need to buy at the store this weekend just for Florida and the list is larger than I thought it would be so now I’m panicking.   The boys are with their dad this weekend which is good and bad. The good part is I won’t have to cook or take care of the boys so I will have time to shop. The bad part is Aaron needs black pants so I’ll be shopping without him and he is hard to buy for.  Aaron is tall and thin so wish me luck. I’m also trying to figure out much money Aaron will need for the trip.  I know the food is expensive in the parks and of course he’ll want a few souvenirs.  There are lots for me to do this weekend. Jacob also has 2 basketball games I need to fit into my schedule besides cleaning and regular grocery shopping.  I guess a mom’s job is never done… 

Basketball

Tuesday, March 13, 2012 4:59 PM

I wish I had video taped Jacob playing basketball this past weekend. Sunday he was absolutely remarkable at defensive. Jacob forced the walk, double dribble and stole the ball almost every time the other team headed down the court.  Jacob is learning to read the players and what their next move is going to be. He has even starting shooting the ball and this is a big accomplishment for Jacob because until now, he would rather have just passed the ball to one of his teammates. Jacob made 4 points in the game in Saturday and took several shots with the ball. Add in the great defense and I’m thinking scholarship! Way to go Jacob! 

Frustrated

Saturday, March 10, 2012 8:36 AM

I need to find a new approach when it comes to Ben and his attitude. I think part of the attitude is simply just because he’s a teenager. Another other part is due to my divorce from his dad.  Let’s not forget he’s a middle child. Ben craves attention regardless if it’s negative. I need to find a way to flip this into positive attention. I’m just not sure how to do this. Maybe I need to back off a little because coming down on him hasn’t helped or has helped very little. Ben thinks I compare him to Aaron and I suppose in some ways I do. After all they are brothers. Ben doesn’t understand that I love him for who he is and what he is capable of and because he’s my son.  He is a rebellious child and very strong willed. Ben wants to be independent. I’ve tried to tell Ben one day he will be able to do as he wishes but for now I’m in charge. I have more experience and knowledge than he does. Why are kids so stubborn? What can I do to get through to Ben?

Signed,

Frustrated

Florida

Wednesday, March 7, 2012 4:39 PM

Arrested

Friday, March 2, 2012 5:56 PM

I can see it now. The headline reads, “Mother arrested for chasing school bus”. Single mother of three boys gets arrested for reckless driving while chasing down the school bus this morning. Woman narrowly misses running over her 15 year old son in the process. Apparently, the family over slept and missed the bus so mom decided to catch the bus at the next stop. After cutting off a few cars and honking her horn, the crazed woman nearly runs over her son all in an effort to get the kids to school.  

Wow! What a crazy morning. If you can’t figure it out. We missed the bus by 30 seconds this morning and I had to chase it down so Ben and Aaron could get to school.  I forgot to mention I was still in my PJ’s with my hair pulled up. Thank goodness it was still dark at 6:30 this morning. I must have looked like a mad woman in the car.  I wasn’t unsuccessful stopping the bus at the first stop but had victory at the next one. Poor Ben must think I’m nuts especially since he had to hop into the car as I started to pull away. I didn’t notice he had gotten out of the car so when the bus pulled away, so did I. Luckily, he wasn’t harmed. I then followed the bus to the next stop and Aaron and Ben were able to get on it there. The high school is 25 minutes from my house.  They would’ve been really late for school if I had not caught up with the bus.  However, next time I will be more cautious and less crazy…. 

Party

Friday, February 24, 2012 4:33 PM

I will have my hands full this weekend.  There will be five boys and one mom in the house.  Do you think I may be in trouble?  Ben’s birthday is next week so I told him he could invite 2 friends to spend the night on Saturday for a small party. What was I thinking? I guess I wasn’t…lol! I’m sure it won’t be too crazy in the house.  Ben and his friend’s will probably play the X-box most of the time and stay up all night. I bought some snacks and a cookie cake for us also. There probably won’t be any food left by Sunday morning with five boys.  I’m just not sure what I’m going to do with Jacob. Maybe I’ll rent him a movie from the Redbox.  Jacob wants to see Dolphin Tales so maybe I’ll rent that to keep him busy. I could also try to talk Aaron into helping me with Jacob.  They are little buddies after all.  I think it will be a fun weekend for everyone!  

Class schedule

Tuesday, February 21, 2012 5:05 PM

Aaron has been working on his class schedule for a week or so. He has been debating what classes to take and if he should have a study hall which I recommended.  Aaron has discussed his schedule with me at length and actually wants my opinion. I guess I shouldn’t be surprised but I am a little. He finally finished his schedule today. What a relief! Apparently, Ben should have been working on his class schedule for next year also.  He never said a word to me and the schedule is due tomorrow. Ben left the papers in his locker at school. Really? Didn’t he think it was important to bring them home?  I thought Ben’s schedule was due after Aaron’s since Ben will only be a sophomore but I was wrong. I think the real issue with Ben is that he wants to be in control of his life.  Ben believes he should be old enough to make all of his own decisions. Yea…right! Ben doesn’t realize that a sign of maturity is to listen and take advice from other people. Plus the fact that I need to sign his school schedule as his “parent” for approval. Kids! At least he and Jacob have been getting along better lately. Ben seems a little more willing to help Jacob but he still doesn’t have a lot of patients with Jacob but Ben is trying. UGH! 

Chores

Friday, February 17, 2012 4:02 PM

I am kid free this weekend but I’ll be spending most of the weekend cleaning the house.  It looks as if a bomb were set off in it.  I had a bad cold this past week so absolutely nothing has gotten done in the house. Well, I did make dinner and do some laundry but that’s it.  When I asked Aaron and Ben to do a few chores around the house you’d think I was asking them to clean the entire house.  They get home from school about 3:30 everyday and I don’t think it’s asking too much for them to do a few chores for me. I mean it takes them no more than 15 minutes and some days I don’t ask them to do anything. Maybe I need to make a list of chores I expect them to do regularly without needing to tell them to do them. They’re old enough to be responsible for chores without being told….right? I do a lot for them so I feel the boys or young men need to pitch in and help. Am I expecting too much? 

Roses

Tuesday, February 14, 2012 12:22 PM

Aaron came home from school yesterday with all of his information regarding his senior class schedule. WOW! A senior! I can’t believe my baby is going to be a senior next year then college.  It seems like yesterday he was just this little boy in my arms.  Where did the time go? I’m very excited for Aaron yet I’m sad because you can never get those days back.  So cherish all of the little moments while you still can. I know that’s hard to do with work, school, homework and sports but we need to try to find the time to stop and smell the roses. I wish I’d taken more pictures of all of the boys.  I’m sure I have lots of pictures but they are probably still on my SD card. I’m really bad about printing out pictures of the kids. I think I’m going to take a day when the boys are with their dad and just print, print, print! That will definitely be an all day project but worth it. 

Bear

Friday, February 10, 2012 4:58 PM

Jacob sure was bear when he woke up this morning. He would talk to me or tell me what he wanted for breakfast.  Finally, after several minutes he woke up and became more pleasant. I was actually waiting for the tears to start but that didn’t happen.  By the time I dropped Jacob off at school, he was in a good mood.  I was beginning to feel sorry for his teacher since she would have to tolerate Jacob all day but I think he snapped out of it.

Aaron has a cold and sounds terrible. At least it’s Friday so he can rest this weekend. I sure hope no one else in the house gets sick. It’ll probably be me, I’ll be the one sick next week.  Aaron is probably more prone to colds dues to his allergies. I finally scheduled Aaron’s surgery to have his wisdom teeth removed on April 6thwhich is during spring break.  I hope he’s not sick at that time. I’d hate to have to reschedule the surgery. 

Exercise

Wednesday, February 8, 2012 4:53 PM

Life is short or at least it can be. My kids are the most precious part of my life.  I know I complain about taking them here or there but at the end of the day I wouldn’t trade them for anything. They make my life complete in so many ways. In the last few months, I have seen several unexpected deaths which have made me examine my own life.  I hope to be around a lot longer for my children and someday in the distant future my grandkids. What worries me the most is that I really don’t care of myself.  I don’t exercise regularly but I do watch what I eat to an extent anyway.  I’m getting older and I have a good deal of stress in my life. I need a plan but it’s difficult to find the time required for regular exercise. I suppose 30 minutes 3 or 4 times a week would be a good start.  Maybe I can get Jacob involved in an exercise plan with me. Also once spring arrives, I’ll be able to get outside to get some exercise.  I love being outside in the spring and Jacob will love it also. 

Replay

Tuesday, January 31, 2012 5:15 PM

We were watching the Mountaineer basketball game last night and Jacob was so adorable. I was bouncing back and forth between the kitchen and living room because I was busy getting our lunches made and doing dishes.  So I missed an important play by one of the Pitt players. Jacob told me the player missed the hoop completely. I said, “Air ball”. Jacob insisted on giving me a live replay of the missed shot. He has one of those small hoops on his bedroom door and Jacob was too eager to give me a replay of the shot…3 replays actually.  I wish I had recorded his play by play action.  It was so cute to have a live replay by a 7 year old.  He made me smileJJacob didn’t make it to half-time watching the game but at least he had an interest.   

Band

Friday, January 27, 2012 3:16 PM

Aaron informed me last night that he and a few of his friend are getting a band together.  You know what that means don’t you? Since Aaron plays the drum, they will be practicing at my house. They want to practice on Sunday afternoon for a few hours. I told him it was fine. Actually, I told Aaron they could practice whenever they wanted. Maybe I should by some ear plugs before Sunday. I also told Aaron in the spring they can practice in the garage. My neighbors are going to love me. I’ll just make sure they don’t practice late in the evening.  I’m sure it’ll be fine.  

Yesterday I met with a few of Ben’s teachers. Unfortunately, I didn’t have time to meet with all of them so I picked the classes I felt Ben is struggling in due to goofing off with his friends.  His grades are ok but they should be much better.  So there were 4 teachers I met yesterday. They all indicated the same thing to me.  Ben likes to be social and wander out of his seat to talk to his friends ever chance he gets.  Ben wants the attention but is not a bad kid and he doesn’t work up to his potential.  I wasn’t surprised by the teacher’s comments. I had a talk with Ben when I got home. He admitted easily that his teachers are right and he will try harder. High school is completely different then middle school. Hopefully, Ben will take school a little more seriously in the future.   

Bad day

Friday, January 20, 2012 3:41 PM

My morning started off with the phone ringing to let me know school was canceled for the day due to the snow.  As I struggled to find my phone, I glanced at the alarm clock which said 5:00 AM. I still had over an hour to sleep this morning but thought about getting up to let Aaron know school was closed. Well, Apparently I dosed back off because the next time I woke up it was because of Aaron.  He opened my bed room door and said, “Mom get up”. I was startled but managed to open my eyes to see him dressed and almost ready for school. Oh no, I thought.  “Ahhh, there’s no school today” I said to Aaron. “Go back to bed”, I told him.  He looked a little surprised but turned and went back to bed this morning.  I had to get up so I could get ready for work.  I had already hit the snooze button a few times which is why Aaron didn’t know school was canceled. I felt bad Aaron had gotten up for school and partially ready but at least he got to go back to sleep…right?

I found out the hard way that the 4-wheel drive in my car isn’t working. I couldn’t get up the small hill near my house this morning.  I had the same issue a few weeks ago but it was extremely icy that morning so I thought that was the problem.  My wonderful neighbor backed my car down the hill.  He then tried 3-4 times to get the car up the hill.  Finally, he got it up far enough for me to help by pushing the car up the hill.  We got it! I made it to work but I don’t know what I’m going to do now. I really need a new car but I can’t afford one but I’m not sure it’s worth it to get this one fixed because there are other issues with it.  Maybe I just need to buy horse! 

Black nail polish

Tuesday, January 17, 2012 5:10 PM

When I picked Jacob up from his after school program the other day, I was surprised to find him wearing black nail polish. He thought it was cool so he let the girls polish his fingernails. Apparently, he and a few other boys let the girls polish their nails. I didn’t get angry with Jacob but I told him I didn’t think little boys should wear nail polish. He just smiled a crooked at me. I also let Jacob know there better not be a next time with the nail polish or I will be very angry. He wanted to keep the polish on overnight which I allowed Jacob to do.  I took it off the next morning. When I told my sister about the nail polish issue, I told her I wasn’t too concerned since the polish wasn’t pink. If it had been pink or purple that would’ve been a completely different story. I hope this isn’t a sign of what’s to come.

Not a snow day

Friday, January 13, 2012 3:52 PM

The boys were extremely disappointed today that they didn’t get a snow day.  Aaron and Ben stayed up late last night assuming they would get to sleep in this morning. I bet they were tired at school today but at least they had a 2 hour early dismissal. Jacob was the worst this morning. He was so upset that he had school. Jacob stays at the after school program every day since I’m working. Because of the 2 hour early dismissal today, Jacob will be at the afternoon program for 4 hours which upset him.  I would think that would be better than sitting at desk in a class room all day.  Jacob actually had tears rolling down his cheeks this morning. He wants me to pick him up early. Jacob sure knows how to pull at my heart strings. I told him I would try my best to get him a few minutes early. I really don’t want him to be the last child at the school because he’ll be so upset with me if that happens. Hopefully, the after school staff will have some fun activities planed for the kids so the day will go by quickly. Hey…at least it Friday!    

Report cards

Tuesday, January 10, 2012 4:58 PM

Aaron and Ben got their report cards yesterday.  Ben hasn’t been applying himself at all.  He should be an “A-B” student not a “B-C” student. He rarely has homework yet when I check edline (school site for grades) Ben has missing assignments. He doesn’t study or doesn’t study enough for his tests. Ben is an extremely smart kid and I don’t know why he doesn’t seem to care about his grades.  This attitude of Ben’s got bad in 8^thgrade mostly in his algebra class. This year in 9^thgrade he has a bad attitude about several classes.  I noticed there are parent-teacher conferences in a few weeks.  I guess I need to go and take Ben with me to try to get to the bottom of this. I’d like to hear his teacher’s perspective on the matter.

Aaron on the other had has done a great job.  He struggled in his Algebra II class the 1^stterm and got a “D”.  The second term Aaron stayed after school for tutoring which helped him tremendously. He got an “A” in the second term. All of his other grades were “A’s or B’s”.  He has been working really hard to keep his grades up so he can get a scholarship for college. I think he’ll be just fine.     

Bad year

Friday, January 6, 2012 4:30 PM

My new year hasn’t gotten much better since the dryer issue. On Tuesday morning, the roads were icy and snowy.  The boys still had school with no delay. We all got up on time and I didn’t even need to yell at Ben to get out the door. Everything was going great until I got stuck on the ice and Aaron and Ben missed the school bus.  The boys pushed my car up the small hill on the ice. Once I made it to the top of the hill I parked at my neighbor’s house. We all walked home. Did I mention it was 6:30 AM and I was in my PJ’s? So there was no school for Ben and Aaron on the first day back after Christmas break.  I considered driving them to school late but it’s a 25 minute drive from my house and since I couldn’t even make it to the end of my road, I decided it wasn’t a good idea to drive them to school.  Nick and I did make it to school and work that morning but at least it was daylight by then and I wasn’t in my PJ’s anymore.  What a day! I sure hope this year gets better! 

Not a good start

Tuesday, January 3, 2012 5:02 PM

I guess it’s too much to ask for to start the New Year out on the right foot. I started having trouble with my clothes dryer on New Year’s Day.  It just shut off on me in the middle of the cycle. It did start again and then shut off again. The dryer is over 13 years old so I shouldn’t be upset. I decided to clean the vent and the wires in the back of the dryer to see it that made a difference.  I’m happy to report the dryer is still working for now at least. What a relief! Although, I feel like I’m waiting for the other shoe to drop because I know it’s only a matter of time before the dryer dies. Then, the washer will follow because that how it happens. So I’m trying to baby the pair in hopes that the washer and dry will last a while longer.  I should’ve babied them from the beginning.  

Christmas

Wednesday, December 28, 2011 12:07 PM

Well, it’s over for another year and I survived Christmas Eve without the boys. I had lunch with an old friend and co-worker on Saturday.  I really enjoyed catching up on life with her. She is older and doesn’t have much family so I’m extremely glad I asked her to lunch. Then I went home baked lots of cookies and watched Christmas movies until really late. I had finished all of my Christmas preparations by noon that day so I could relax that night.

The boys came home at 2:00 o’clock on Christmas Day. I watched a movie to help pass the time that morning.  Of course, I waited for them to open any presents.  They insisted I open a present before they did which made me feel loved and appreciated. The boys had already opened presents at their grandparent’s house on Christmas Eve and at their dad’s house Christmas morning. Maybe just maybe…they are growing up after all. So, I opened 1 gift and then had them open theirs.  We all had a great Christmas with a few surprises and laughs.  I am glad the holiday is over for another year.  It’s so much work…

Merry Christmas

Friday, December 23, 2011 10:40 AM

Sometimes being divorced is difficult and other times it’s great!  Christmas is one of those difficult times for me.  The boys are already with their dad and won’t be home until Christmas day at 2:00 PM.  I realize they are still excited to be spending Christmas with their dad regardless if I’m there or not.  I try not to let the boys know how sad it makes me for them to not be with me on Christmas morning.  I want them to enjoy the morning even if I can’t be there with them to celebrate. My x-husband and I don’t get along well enough to celebrate Christmas together.  The kids and I will have our own opportunity to celebrate Christmas when they get home. However, I wish the situation was different but we all live with the choices we make. I did make the right one. 

Merry Christmas! 

Issues

Tuesday, December 20, 2011 12:07 PM

They say, “Mommy knows best”. Why is it that you can’t convenience a teenager of that? Teenagers are stubborn and rebellious. In my case, I’ve always tried to be understanding and fair yet I have rules in my house. I’m afraid that the boy’s dad doesn’t maintain rule in his house.  Also, being a woman trying to raise 3 men is a very difficult situation. My boys aren’t bad by any means but I do feel out numbered at times. Aaron doesn’t usually give me much trouble but last weekend he felt the need to express himself. I realize he’s getting older and wants more freedom but I am still in charge.  Right? I get to make the decisions! I don’t like him riding all over town in his friend’s car especially at night and when it’s flurrying.  Aaron didn’t see an issue with that situation. We got into a small argument over this issue.  Am I over reacting or being over protective? How do you let your children go and grow up? I explained to Aaron that I got to make the decisions and I would to be the one to live with the decisions if something happened. I did let him go with his friend reluctantly.  I hope Aaron understood my dilemma 

Bad word

Friday, December 16, 2011 4:51 PM

Last night Jacob and I were sitting at the kitchen table doing his homework.  I looked through his backpack to see what else was inside of it. Jacob had 2 library books both of them were about polar bears. I held them up to Jacob and asked him which one he wanted to ready first? Jacob looked at both of the books then pointed to one and said, “That one, K**T.” (Use your imagination) I was shocked and said, “What did you say?” as I looked at he books. Jacob repeated what he thought was the title of the book. I said, “Oh Jacob that’s not what it says and that’s really not a nice word. Please don’t say that anymore” The book is Called “Knut”.  Poor Jacob, he said, “I didn’t know that was a bad word.” I know Jacob had no idea he was saying something bad but it was kind of funny after the sock wore off. He’s learning to read fairly well or so I thought. Apparently, we need to practice reading more. 

Attitude

Tuesday, December 6, 2011 5:29 PM

Ben has been happier lately than he has been in such a long time. I think it’s a combination of events that have occurred over the last few months.  His grades we slipping and he decided not to wrestle this year.  I became very concerned about him and discussed counseling with him. Ben has probably always blamed me for the divorce since I’m the one who proceeded with it. I also think his father helped assist with the resentment which didn’t help Ben.  Over the last few months Ben has seen some of the characteristics in his dad that I dislike. Over the last few years, I have tried to maintain discipline in the house which is really tough with 3 boys. Ben had been a little withdrawn recently. He would bounce between the X-box downstairs and his laptop to watch Netflix. So, I got rid of Netflix. Ben hasn’t been playing the X-box much lately because he doesn’t have the latest game to play with his friends. All I hear from Ben is how bored he is and he has nothing to do. Well, I told him to clean his room or I can find other work around the house for him to do. Ben usually finds something else to do. In the last few weeks, Ben has been spending more time in the living room and less time being isolated.  I also took him shopping with me on Black Friday and he helped with the purchase of our new TV.  His attitude has improved greatly.  Ben will stop me in the kitchen or living room and give me a hug. I hope this lasts for more then a few weeks. I made a deal with Ben.  If he can get all A’s and B’s on his report card, I will get Netflix back.  I know he can do it, Ben is very smart. 

Mess!

Friday, December 2, 2011 4:27 PM

I am still exhausted from our trip to see our family over Thanksgiving.  I’ve been running Jacob for basketball and Aaron for band and to see his girlfriend all week.  Tomorrow all I want to do is sleep in and watch TV. That will never happen but I can dream can’t I?  Ben wants his friend to spend the night but I said, “No”.  My house is very dirty, I have little food in the cabinets and Aaron is in the Christmas parade tonight. How am I supposed to whip the house into shape so I can decorate for Christmas? There’s only 23 days until Christmas day. I really don’t know how I can manage it this year.  I need a helper around the house just part-time but I can’t afford it. Maybe I should play the lottery…I guess I’m just dreaming.  Maybe I can bribe the kids to do some extra work around the house this weekend. Yeah that’s what I’ll do then I’ll have 3 helpers. Great idea!   

Black Friday Shopping

Tuesday, November 29, 2011 4:57 PM

Ben and I did it. We went black Friday shopping at Wal-mart. The two of us arrived at the store about 9:15 PM and it was already packed with people. I didn’t waste any time at all. I found an associate and asked him where I could find the 40” TVs that were in the ad.  We were just 3 aisles away from the “line” for the TVs. Ben and I hurried over to the line just in time for the head count.  We were #35 of 40 people who would be getting the 40” TV.  Yeah! I was a little worried that we wouldn’t get what we wanted because people were camping out at Best Buy for TVs and other electronics on Thanksgiving Day. So, Ben and I decided to go to Wal-mart for our TV but with little hope of actually getting it. Ben and I waited and waited and waited. At 10:00, the associated passed out our tickets for the TV but we still had to stay in line. UGH! Since Ben was there, I left him in line and I went around the store to grab…literally grab a few other items I wanted. I returned to the line and let Ben go check out some things he wanted. Finally at 11:30, the associate let us leave the line but we couldn’t pay for the TV until 12:00 AM. Once I paid for the TV, I had to drive around to the back of Wal-mart to pick it up.  It was totally worth it for the savings. Ben really enjoyed shopping with me and I was happy because we were home by 1:10 AM.  

Black Friday

Tuesday, November 22, 2011 4:51 PM

Ben wants to go shopping with me on Black Friday.  He’s really curious to see what really happens in the stores.  Ben wants to see if people push and shove each other or if a fight breaks out in line. He has been searching the internet for the good sales and has been really excited all week about shopping. I think this will be a good opportunity for the two of us to bond a little.  He has been bored out of his mind since I’ve canceled Netflix. However, Ben has been hanging out more in the living room and he is more sociable. So if I take Ben shopping with me on Black Friday is what it takes to bond with him then I’ll do it. I’ve let him know he has to be in this shopping trip for the long haul. In other words, shop til you drop!  We’re trying to get a flat screen TV for the living room. We’ll need to be in line by 8:00 or 9:00 PM in order to get one but we can take turns going to the car to get warm or rest if necessary.  I’m excited…I love to shop on Black Friday. 

Texting

Friday, November 18, 2011 4:48 PM

I use to hate texting because I think is so impersonal. Many teenagers today lack communication skills because of all the modern technology.  They are either on the computer, the X-box or texting on their phone. My boys are perfect examples of this.  I will call their cell phone and get no answer.  If I text them, they reply and right away.  It gets so frustrating for me sometimes.  Our family room and Aaron’s bedroom is downstairs in basically the basement. I use to go down when I needed them for something but as I’ve gotten older and busier being a single parent, I started just yelling down to them.  Well, that got old quick.  They wouldn’t be able to hear me because the X-box was so loud or they were wearing head phones. I found myself constantly trying to get their attention for dinner or when it would be time to leave the house for some reason. So, I’ve started texting Aaron and Ben if I need them.  If they’re in their bedroom, downstairs or outside, I send them a text which usually gets me a quick response. Recently, Ben has been complaining about the way I text. Apparently, he hates when I do ….. in a sentence. It doesn’t bother Ben at all that I want him to do something like change the garage.  Last night I sent Ben a text which started like this, “Hi….” he sent me a text back telling me he hates when I do that.  I said, “Do what?” This was his response, “Son….hi….stop” So I text “LOL…” Then Aaron started texting Ben with ….just to annoy him. I didn’t do it on purpose at first….oh well.  I guess I’ll try to not use…so much.  What do you think? 

Punishment

Tuesday, November 15, 2011 5:09 PM

Aaron got it trouble at school a few weeks ago. Well actually, it was during a football game while the band was on the field.  He and the other members of the drum line decided it would be funny to yell out the other school “sucks” during the halftime show.  A parent from the other school called to complain to the band director who hadn’t heard the remark at the game. He quickly pulled the tape of the game and found the complaint to be valid.  The band director was furious! There are 13 students in the drum line who in my opinion are being punished to severely.  The principal and the band director agreed on the students’ punishment.

1. Apologize to the other school in a letter to the principal
2. Apologize to their own school
3. Receive an unsatisfactory conduct grade on their report card in band class
4. The students need to work 4 hours helping collect seats, or working the food drive (a good cause)

I just feel this is extreme punishment.  These kids never get in trouble and are good kids who were just having fun. I do realize the school is trying to use these band students as an example but this is excessive.  However, Aaron does not have a choice but to abide by this punishment or quit band.  So, I guess he’ll be working the food drive.

44 days until Christmas!

Friday, November 11, 2011 4:24 PM

Guess what?  Its 44 days until Christmas day.  My sister has been counting down to Christmas since September.  I’ve been telling her that it is a dirty word and I don’t want to here anything about Christmas.  I’m a single mom with 3 boys and Christmas is somewhat of a burden for me.  Every year I manage to pull it off but with lots stress.  I always shop for sales, clearance and with store coupons and I get some really great deals on Christmas presents.  I even shop on black Friday.  I know its crazy but I actually enjoy it. Even with that the savings, I still spend too much money on Christmas.  Finally, a few weeks ago I broke down and started Christmas shopping.  I’ve ordered a few items online and went to the mall.  I need to go to Game Stop soon to get Aaron and Ben a game for the x-box.  At this point, I’m not too stressed about Christmas. It will be Christmas before I know it but I think having ideas for gifts helps decrease the stress of the holidays. I’d really like to be done shopping about a week prior to Christmas so I better get busy! 

Dishwasher

Friday, November 4, 2011 5:07 PM

After going without a dishwasher for more then 4 months, I finally have a new one! Yeah!  I (not the kids) have been washing all of the dishes by hand.  I was afraid they wouldn’t get them clean.  Also, I didn’t feel like telling the kids 10 times to do the dishes.  I don’t like having the sink full of dishes and I’m a little particular. So, I decided it would be better for me and the kids if I just washed the dishes myself. Over the last few months we have used lots of paper plates and I’ve cooked on the grill a good bit over the summer which reduced the dish load.  Ben was the first person to unload the dishes from the new dishwasher.  He told me the new dishwasher works great and the dishes were really clean.  I was surprised Ben even paid any attention to the cleanliness of the dishes especially since he is a 14 year boy. However, Ben washes his hands all the time.  He will not eat or drink after anyone.  So I guess I shouldn’t be surprised at all. 

Trick or treating

Tuesday, November 1, 2011 5:17 PM

Jacob has been telling me he might want to go trick or treating with his dad for Halloween this year for about a week.  Jacob also told me he didn’t want me to be upset if he went with dad because he went trick or treating with me last year. Of course, I told Jacob I wouldn’t be upset at all.  According to the divorce, Jacob’s dad gets the boys this year for Halloween.  I don’t have a choice but Aaron and Ben don’t go trick or treating any more. However, the boys’ dad has never taken them trick or treating…not once...Aaron is 16.  So, I wasn’t surprised when I didn’t hear from his dad about trick or treating. Jacob did mention trick or treating to his dad over the weekend and was told he would see about taking him. So after school yesterday, Jacob kept insisting that dad was taking him. I told Jacob when we got home he could call his dad to ask him. Jacob left him a message. His dad did call back but he had never listened to the message…he had to work and couldn’t take Jacob out trick or treating.  When I told Jacob, he started to cry.  He wanted to go trick or treating in his dad’s neighborhood because there were more houses then in mine. Wow…Jacob just wanted to go trick or treating at his dad’s for more candy! I did settle him down after a few minutes.  Jacob asked me if I’d take him trick or treating …of course I did…in the rain…cause that’s what moms do.

Halloween

Friday, October 28, 2011 5:29 PM

I took Jacob trick or treating at the mall last night.  What a mistake and a mess.  I think the whole town was there. Jacob had fun even though he didn’t get much candy. I guess that was one of the reasons for going and the other being the candy.  We were in line for ½ an hour and didn’t even get ¼ of the way through the mall. Finally, I told Jacob we were leaving.  He didn’t complain at all which surprised me a little. I told Jacob I would go buy him candy.  Is that terrible or what? I don’t think we’ll be doing this next year. Jacob dressed up as Ironman and he looked so cute.  He wanted to be a Transformer again this year but since his costume from last year didn’t fit him, I talked Jacob into something else.  Ironman won! 

Missing the bus

Friday, October 21, 2011 5:02 PM

After working all day yesterday, I picked up Jacob and went home.  Aaron was already home but Ben had practice after school.  I told him to ride the city bus home because I knew I’d be busy and probably wouldn’t be able to pick him up.  I walked in the door, got changed then my cell phone rang.  It was Ben…he missed the bus at the high school.  UGH!  He was waiting inside the school because it was cold outside and the bus didn’t stop.  Ben knows he needs to be outside to catch the bus.  The problem was he was wearing shorts yesterday and it wasn’t even 50 degrees out.  I was mad!  It’s a 25 minute drive from my house to the high school and 25 minutes back home. After I yelled at Ben, I quickly got Jacob a bite to eat and sent him down stairs with Aaron so I could go get Ben. I was starving myself but decided I didn’t have time to feed myself.  Ben was waiting outside for me when I arrived at the school.  I calmly explained to Ben that he had to NOT miss the bus anymore or he wouldn’t be staying for practice. I told Ben I knew it wasn’t done on purpose but he needed to be responsible for getting the bus after practice.  I think he gets it because he waited for 2 hours after practice for a ride home… 

Tongue twisters

Tuesday, October 18, 2011 4:56 PM

How much wood would a woodchuck chuck
If a woodchuck could chuck wood?

How much wood would a woodchuck chuck
If a woodchuck could chuck wood?

How much wood would a woodchuck chuck
If a woodchuck could chuck wood?

This is what I heard all last night. Jacob has just learned this tongue twister and kept repeating it all night.  He told me it was addicting to keep say it…and I have to agree because I’ve found myself saying it in my head all day! I had to laugh at him because I remember when I was about his age saying all sorts of tongue twisters with my friends.  I also remember this one:

She sells seashells by the seashore.
The shells she sells are surely seashells.
So if she sells shells on the seashore,
I'm sure she sells seashore shells.

We probably drove all of our parents crazy.  I guess its payback time.  

Phone call

Friday, October 14, 2011 5:05 PM

Well, Ben has finally done it and it’s only taken him 2 months. I received a call from the vice principal today because Ben got in trouble in gym class. Apparently, Ben was being rowdy and jumping on other kids during gym.  When he was told to stop and sit down as a punishment, Ben didn’t stay seated. So, the gym teacher wrote him up for insubordination. Which lead to the phone call from the vice principal today. Now, this actually happened on Tuesday and it took until Friday for me to get a phone call. The vice principal explained the situation to me and asked if I wanted to talk to Ben.  So I did and Ben was a little short with me on the phone. He wasn’t really rude or anything to me but the vice principal did notice a little attitude anyway.  I am disappointed in the school process. Ben could have been punished for a few days already.  He has been playing the x-box all week.  Is a delayed punishment as effective as an immediate one? Ben didn’t get a school suspension or anything since this is his first offense but next time he will. So that’s what I have to look forward to…great! 

Football

Tuesday, October 11, 2011 4:50 PM

The boys and I had such a wonderful yet busy weekend.  The weather was perfect fall weather.  We went to the high school football game on Friday night.  Then on Saturday, we went to the WVU game.  So we were all wore out by Saturday night.  I promised the boys they could sleep in late on Sunday morning since we got up early on Saturday but they would have to do yard work that afternoon.   Jacob is really the only person who didn’t have any work to do around the house.  Aaron and Ben mowed grass, helped clean up the pool area and put the lawn furniture away. They only spent about an hour doing yard work but to them it seemed as if they spent all day on it. I worked on cleaning the garage for a few hours.  What a mess!  I am happy to say that I’ve managed to clean about half of the garage so I can now park my car in it. Yeah!!!  Jacob did practice riding his bike some more and he is getting much better.  It won’t be long and he’ll want to ride around the neighborhood…look out!   

Transformers 3

Friday, October 7, 2011 4:44 PM

Jacob pestered me for a month to buy him Transformers 3…the movie…before it was released.  Every time there was a commercial on TV, he would call me into the living room to remind me that it would be released on 9/30/11.  Jacob even wrote the date down on paper so he wouldn’t forget the date.  I had to laugh at him because that is something I would do.  I have post it’s everywhere! So, the week the movie was to come out Jacob asked me who he was with on Friday…the 30^th (mom or dad).  He was with his dad that weekend.  Jacob didn’t want me to buy the movie without him and he wanted me to get the movie on the 30^th.  I tried to explain to Jacob that since he was with his dad that night…I couldn’t take him with me.   Jacob insisted that I was not allowed to by the movie without him. We went round and round.  Finally, Jacob gave me the “Ok” to buy Transformer 3 without him.  I would have anyway… 

Mess

Wednesday, October 5, 2011 5:03 PM

I spent a good part of the weekend cleaning my house since the boys were with their dad.  Not the entire house got cleaned but I spent time cleaning the kitchen, living room bathroom and doing the laundry.  I guess what I left out was the bedrooms.  The boys didn’t have school yesterday or Monday so now the house is a disaster again.  When I got home yesterday, the sink was full of dishes and Nick had dart guns in each room of the house. There was also an empty milk jug on the floor next to the overflowing garbage can….UGH!   I am however happy to report there were no bodily damages to any of the boys.  They had all eaten, brushed their teeth and were dressed.  I guess I call that a successful day!   

No more training wheels

Friday, September 30, 2011 4:44 PM

Jacob has been asking me to take the training wheels off if his bike for a while. I kept giving him excuses why I couldn’t take the wheels off.  Honestly, I wasn’t sure his little legs were strong enough to peddle the bike.  The road in front of my house is gravel so it’s a little rough.  Finally, the other day I did it…the wheels are off.  I had Aaron come outside with us in the front yard to help.  The grass had just been cut so I thought it was a good place to start.  Jacob was wearing his helmet (just in case).  I starting pushing him while holding the seat and handle bars.  The boy was so wobbly I thought there was no way he would be able to ride his bike yet.  He was really leaning from side to side. I would let go of him briefly but he didn’t go far. After a while, I had Aaron help Jacob because my back was killing me.  Getting old really sucks!  Aaron wasn’t as cautious as I was with Jacob but he did have Jacob riding the bike further across the yard in a short time. Then, I took over again.  By the time we were finished, Jacob was riding across the front yard.  He still can’t steer the bike well but it’s a start.  I’m happy to report he didn’t have any major crashes on the bike. Jacob was so excited to finally be riding his bike without training wheels.  I wish I would have thought to video tape him.     

Big game

Tuesday, September 27, 2011 5:04 PM

I had a great time at the WVU football game the other night and I didn’t have to choose between one of the boys.  My friend, Tammy was able to go with me to the game.  Fortunately, her mom volunteered to babysit her kids for her.  Yeah!  We’ve been friends since college but we don’t get to hang out very often since we both work and have children.  She has 4 kids who keep her very busy. So it was nice to have some catch up time without the kids constantly interrupting us. Plus, we got to go to the football game and see Landau Eugene Murphy sing the national anthem. What a treat! We also tailgated for a while prior to the game. I have to admit…I did feel a little guilty for leaving the boys at home and going to the game without them.  I know I shouldn’t because I spend most of my time taking them places and I need some time to relieve stress.  

Problem

Friday, September 23, 2011 4:56 PM

I sort of have a problem. In my possession, I have 2 tickets to the WVU vs. LSU game for tomorrow night. That doesn’t sound like much of a problem does it? The problem is…there are 4 of us.  I really didn’t want to take Jacob to the game anyway since it’s an 8:00 kick off.  So, now there are 3 of us.  Who do I take with me to the game Ben or Aaron?  Ben isn’t always interested in going to football games but I think it would be nice for the 2 of us to spend time together. On the other hand, Aaron really enjoys going to the football games.  So what do I do? Then there is a 3^rdoption.  I could take a friend with me to the game but I haven’t had much luck finding someone who needs a ticket to the game or someone who can find a babysitter. There are still a few possibilities but I may not know until tomorrow. I really hate to have to choose between Aaron and Ben. Maybe I’ll get lucky and one of them won’t wanna go to the game. It could happen! 

Trouble

Wednesday, September 21, 2011 4:33 PM

Ben got in trouble again. This time I took his cell phone, the x-box and computer for a week for lying to me. The thing about it is…I think it was a dumb lie.  He was goofing off on the school bus which got a little out of control.  This resulted in his shirt getting torn…basically ruined. The lie however, was that the tear happened in gym. Don’t get me wrong, I’m mad about the incident on the school bus but I am really mad that Ben lied to me again!  I don’t believe he was fighting with the other kid on the bus but Ben shouldn’t be having these issues on the bus.  I told him if he got kicked off of the school bus he would be riding public transportation to school. Ben’s not thrilled about riding the public bus but he has to a few days a week now that he’s weight lifting after school.  So, I’m hoping that all of these punishments and threats will have an impact on his behavior.  I’m hoping… 

Florida Trip

Friday, September 16, 2011 4:18 PM

Aaron has the opportunity to go to Florida in the spring with the band to march in the parade at Disney World.  The school has set up a payment plan for the trip which is a great idea to assist parents in paying for the trip but in my situation it doesn’t help much.  Right now…a few months before Christmas is not the time for me to start paying for a trip to Florida.  Aaron has never been to Disney World or Florida and really wants to go. He is willing to take the car money he has been saving to help pay for the trip.  It breaks my heart…he is such a good young man who deserves to go on this Florida trip.  Hopefully his dad will make a contribution to Aaron’s Florida trip.  Once band is over I want Aaron to get a part-time job but I’m just not sure how he’ll be getting to work. Yes I do…me!  I guess I’ll be spending less on Christmas this year… 

Weekend

Friday, September 9, 2011 5:00 PM

TGIF!!! It has been such a long week for me.  At least tomorrow the boys and I get to go to the Mountaineer Football Game.  I can tell you now Ben will complain and try to get out of going to the game but I’m not going to give him a choice.  Aaron will be exhausted by tomorrow night.  He has a band competition after the football game then he’s spending the night at a friend’s house so “his band” can practice.  Yes…I said “his” band.  At least Aaron is dedicated to practicing.  Jacob will complain because Aaron won’t be home. Jacob is Aaron’s “little buddy”. Ben will complain because he will need to entertain Jacob.  It’s a never ending cycle in my house. We have a busy weekend ahead of us.  I hope I survive.  

History

Friday, September 2, 2011 4:55 PM

Jacob who is 7 years old and in 2^ndgrade asked me what happened a long time ago on September 11^th.  It’s hard to believe 9-11 was 10 years ago.  For Jacob, this is something he is learning about in the history books.  I explained to Jacob some bad men stole a few airplanes.  How else do you describe the events that took place so many years ago to a 7 year old?  I told him 2 airplanes were crashed into The World Trade Towers and thousands of people were killed. Then I proceeded to tell Jacob another plane crashed in PA not far from where we live and a 4^thplane crashed in to the Pentagon.  I told Jacob at first, everyone thought the 1^stplane might be an accident but once the 2^ndcrashed in to the Twin Towers everyone was very afraid.  Jacob responded with, “Oh yeah, the Twin Towers…I know what you mean”.  I was a little surprised to hear his response.  I tried to think of how to explain the Pentagon building to Jacob.  All I could come up with was it was located in DC and government people worked there.  Jacob once again surprised me by saying, “You mean where the generals and army people work?”  I agreed with him…good answer.  Aaron was 6 and Ben was 4 on 9-11.  I remember being terrified about what was happening to our country and for the safety of my family.  I was glued to the radio that day and to the TV that night.  My heart goes out to the families and friends of all the victims of  9-11.   

Sleep

Tuesday, August 30, 2011 5:06 PM

Since the boys have started back to school, I’ve been exhausted!  I can’t fall a sleep at night then I don’t want to get up in the morning. I’ve been over tired now for about 2 weeks. Aaron and Ben have been staying up later then I want them to and I can hear them in the bathroom when they are getting ready for bed. It’s so frustrating!  They need to go to bed earlier anyway because they get up for school so early.  Jacob doesn’t want to go to bed either.  He whines and cries when its time for bed no matter what time it is.  Why do I have so much trouble getting the boys to bed?  I know they are all tired.  Maybe in a few weeks things will settle down and we’ll be into more of a routine.  I sure hope so! I need sleep! 

Good start

Wednesday, August 24, 2011 4:24 PM

So far so good with high school…Ben has only complained about his Geometry class. He doesn’t like it because there are mostly sophomores in the class. Basically, the problem for Ben is that he is not in class with all of his friends. That was a big problem for Ben last year in his Algebra class. All of Ben’s friends were in his Algebra class and he just goofed off most of the school year.  I, on the other hand, am extremely thankful Ben isn’t in class with all of his friends. Maybe, he’ll actually pay attention in class this year.  Ben has had homework the last 2 nights in Geometry and has even brought home his book to actually do it.  So, I think Ben’s off to a good start this year! 

Jacob is such a little handful in school.  He is a very bright child but has a difficult time controlling all of his energy. He is trying not to get a “bad mark” in school but Jacob got one yesterday.  The school had a fire drill and Jacob got in trouble for not being in line. I told him it was important to stay in line during the drill. Jacob’s response was, “Mom there were lines everywhere”.  Now…how could I be upset with that response?  Poor kid…I felt bad because Jacob is trying. 

We did it!

Friday, August 19, 2011 4:11 PM

We did it!  The boys made it to school yesterday and today. I say “we” because it definitely takes team work to get myself and 3 kids out the door in the morning.  Aaron and Ben get on the bus at 6:28 AM…crazy…but high school starts at 7:24 AM. I’m really proud of Ben for getting up the last 2 mornings on time. I was extremely worried Ben wouldn’t get up at all for school.  Jacob doesn’t start school until 8:45 AM so he goes to a before school program.  This year it’s very different in the morning because Ben and Aaron are both gone by the time Jacob wakes up for school. Jacob has done a great job getting ready for school the last 2 mornings.  I really feel bad because now Jacob is eating breakfast by himself since I’m busy getting ready for work.  I’ll need to try to rearrange my schedule so I can sit with him sometimes while he’s eating breakfast.  I have no idea how I’m going to do that but I need to figure something out.   

Back to school

Wednesday, August 17, 2011 4:40 PM

I am so happy that school starts tomorrow.  The boys are starting to drive each other crazy which makes me crazy.  We went to the “Back to school bash” last night at the high school.  What a mess!  The open house was from 5pm-7pm so the students could get their schedules, lockers and find their class rooms. So…I thought we would get there just before 5pm, get our stuff, and get out of there. No such luck. For over an hour, we stood around waiting and waiting to get into the auditorium. We weren’t allowed into the auditorium until 5:50 PM. Then we listened to the principal’s speech. Finally at about 6:30 PM, we were split into groups by homeroom teacher so we could get all of the necessary information. Then Ben had to find of his locker and classrooms. Of course, he didn’t want help from Aaron.  By the time we were finished at the high school it was 7:15 PM. When I finally got home at 8:00 PM, I felt I had just wasted my time.  The school should be much more organized.  Maybe the boys had fun socializing with their friends but I certainly didn’t enjoy the “bash”.         

School

Friday, August 12, 2011 5:03 PM

Ben has finally admitted to me he is nervous about starting high school.  He has been extremely particular about the school cloths I’ve been buying him to the point I don’t care if he goes to school naked.  Well…that’s not really true but that’s how I feel sometimes. When did “Nike” become not good enough? Aaron has never been as particular as Ben.  I guess I should consider myself lucky for that. I still need to buy the boys a few items for school but for the most part I’m finished…for now.  Summer has just flown by for me.  I really can’t believe school starts in less then a week.  I’m not sure if I’m ready to battle homework with Jacob.  Although, I think he’s excited about starting 2^ndgrade.  Jacob told me last night that he was going to be in 2^ndgrade and that 2^ndgrade class rooms were on the 2^ndfloor of the school.  I thought WOW…he is excited about school. Great! 

Common sense

Thursday, August 11, 2011 8:41 AM

I have always thought Aaron was a very smart child.  As he has gotten older I have realized as smart as he is, he lacks common sense.  I have proof to back this belief up.  This is the most recent example of his lack common sense.  The other day, Aaron was getting a ride from a friend after band practice to my work so I could take him home.  I reminded him where my office is located (which he should know by now). I also reminded Aaron that I’m on the third floor and to just come to my office once he arrived. Easy…right?  The next thing he said truly amazed me and had me laughing all day.  Aaron said, “I’m not sure how the elevator works”.  I had to do a double take at him while I was driving.  Really???  He is 16 years old.  I was shocked!  Aaron defended himself by saying that he doesn’t ride the elevator very often.  I had to explain to Aaron step by step how the elevator works.  When I was finished, he looked at me and said, “That’s what I thought”. Do you think I’ve sheltered this boy a little?  What in the world am I going to do with him? 

Proud

Saturday, August 6, 2011 2:11 PM

This week has been a little stressful for me.  Aaron has been at band camp all week. They don’t spend the night but he is gone from 7:40 AM to 9:30 PM…so all day.  Jacob’s summer camp ended last week so I decided to let Ben watching Jacob this week.  I really didn’t have any other choices.  I was really concerned about the arrangement since they fight all the time.  I had a little chat with each of them explaining what I expected from them a few times before and during this past week.  Jacob thinks Ben is mean to him and Ben feels Jacob is spoiled.  They are both correct.  Surprisingly, the week went extremely well.  They did have a few small fights at least I was told they were small but for the most part they actually got along. I didn’t receive 1 phone call at work from Jacob complaining or crying about Ben. I was completely shocked and I am very proud of the both of them for making this work.  Ben had such a different attitude this last week. Maybe having a little more responsibility was just what he needed.  

Waterpark

Wednesday, August 3, 2011 4:51 PM

The boys and I went to Sandcastle Waterpark on Saturday. We had a great time…well at least 3 of us did.  Ben and Aaron really didn’t want to go to the park on Saturday.  Ben didn’t want to go swimming at all and Aaron just wanted to go on a different day.  I explained to them there were not many weekends left in the summer and we needed to go to the waterpark when we could.  It didn’t matter to Ben at all; he just didn’t wanna go swimming.  Aaron on the other had decided he wanted to go to Sandcastle.  Jacob of course was exited to go.  Ben kept insisting he didn’t want to go to the waterpark and that he wasn’t going swimming. However, I thought he would change his mind once we got there.  Well, he didn’t. Ben spent all day just sitting by the pool. He refused go on one slide.  When we got home, Ben said he had fun at the waterpark. How could he have had fun?  I don’t get it! I really don’t know what is wrong with that boy.  Is he being stubborn or is just trying to torture me? Should I be concerned or is this because he’s a 14 year boy? I’m not sure… 

Breaking my heart

Friday, July 29, 2011 4:38 PM

Today is the last day for Jacob’s summer program. Apparently, yesterday Jacob’s AM program had a talent show and end of summer party which the parents were invited to attend.  I never received the invitation since we were on vacation last week. My X and I found out about the event on Wednesday evening.  There was just no way I could go the next morning since it didn’t start until 8:30 and went until 10:15 in the morning. Jacob’s dad said he would try to attend the party but he wasn’t able to make it.  I found out yesterday afternoon Jacob cried and cried when his dad dropped him off at the school and couldn’t stay with him. I felt so bad because Jacob was that upset.  By the time I picked Jacob up yesterday afternoon from the pool, he seemed to be doing better.  He had a bag full of items he made during the last 6 weeks of his dinosaur class.  After dinner last night I had him show me every item in the bag. I think the display helped Jacob feel even better.  He was so proud of all of his dinosaur crafts he made and had done a great job.  I wish I could have been there for him yesterday. 

Vacation

Tuesday, July 26, 2011 4:45 PM

We had a nice vacation last week but it went by to quickly.  The boys and I spent a few days at the Jersey shore before the heat wave hit…thankfully. My friend drove up to AC to spend the night with us at the casino.  Her and I took the boys swimming and to the arcade. They really enjoyed staying there even though it was just 1 night. Later that night my friend and I went downstairs to play the slots. Of course we didn’t win any money but we still enjoyed ourselves.

The next day we meet my sister and nieces on the beach for the afternoon. The ocean was still a little cold considering it’s the end of July but the beach was hot. Jacob is getting braver in the ocean water.  The waves still scare him but he has become a little more adventurous.  Jacob and Ben buried Aaron in the sand…he looked so silly. Ben complained he didn’t want to go to the beach and he didn’t want to swim but once he was there he had a great time.  That boy complains about everything all the time.  He is never ever happy.  I’m wrong…Ben is happy when he plays the x-box as long as no one bothers him.  You would think a few days on the beach wouldn’t begin to compare to the x-box.  The beach rocks!

Road trip!

Friday, July 15, 2011 4:32 PM

This has been such a crazy week. I’m on vacation next week so I’ve been trying to get extra stuff done at work and home before I leave town. We’re going to NJ to visit our family. Aaron also has had band practice every night this week. Ben and I are trying to get the yard mowed before we leave in the morning.  I have laundry to do so I can pack for the 4 of us.  I’m afraid if I don’t pack Aaron and Ben’s cloths they won’t bring everything they need or they’ll wait until tomorrow morning to pack.   Jacob thinks he should be able to take every toy he owns with us for the car trip. I did put gas in the car today but I still need to go to the bank.  I’d like to get an early start tomorrow because we have a 6 hour drive but I know Aaron and Ben will be difficult to wake in the morning. Hopefully, I‘ll be able to get the boys up early tomorrow so we can get on the road. If they would all fall back to sleep it would be awesome so I could have some peace and quite but that is very unlikely... 

Fun in the pool

Tuesday, July 12, 2011 4:58 PM

Ben has been stuck to the x-box all summer.  When the boys came home from their dad’s house on Sunday, I told them all no x-box.  Jacob wanted to go swimming in the pool with Aaron and Ben.   Aaron said he would go but Ben didn’t want to go swimming.  As a matter of fact…Ben hasn’t been in the pool all year.  I told Jacob he had to wait until after dinner to go swimming.  So, after dinner Jacob and Aaron got ready to go swimming and Ben disappeared downstairs…where the x-box is located.  He thought he was going to be able to play. I tried to get Ben to go swimming but he refused although he did agree to go outside.  At this time Aaron and Jacob were already in the pool.  Well, it took Ben about 5 minutes for Ben to change his mind to go swimming.  I was really hoping he would change his mind once he got outside. I think Ben has been a little depressed lately and swimming would be great for him.  I think I was right; all of the boys were having a great time in the pool.  I need to find some other activities for Ben this summer but I don’t know what…   

Pool day

Saturday, July 9, 2011 5:05 PM

Jacob and I have been enjoying our pool.  Aaron and Ben have no interest in it because it is only 4 feet deep.  They would much rather play the x-box. I've been teaching Jacob how to swim. He can dogie paddle and will swim a short distance under water with his goggles.  Jacob will also swim to the bottom to retrieve something out of the pool. He really looks adorable in his goggles. However, Jacob will not jump into the pool yet.  I guess he's still a little afraid of the water. The other day Jacob and I were swimming...well I was holding him in the water.  I told Jacob I was going to dunk him.  He wasn't sure what I meant so I told him to hold his nose because I was going to put him under the water. Oh no! Jacob didn't want any part of it. I explained to him the I wouldn't hold him under at all.  He still refused.  I continued to tell Jacob I was going to dunk him.  All of a sudden he said, "No, don't! I'm going to tell".  I laughed immediately and asked who he was going to tell?  Jacob realized the situation and laughed then said, "The mayor".  We both laughed and I never did dunk him.  I felt he must have really been scared if he was going to tell on me. We had a lot of fun that day. 

Great movie!

Wednesday, July 6, 2011 3:11 PM

The boys and I had a great weekend!  We went to see Transformers 3 in 3D and it was worth the extra money for the 3D.  All of us thought it was a great movie.  Jacob is ready to see it again and he wants the DVD when it comes out.  I told him he would have to wait until Christmas for it which will be here before I know it. We also went to see the fireworks on Monday night.  Aaron and Ben weren’t very interested in them but Jacob was thrilled. He took his camera so he could take pictures but his camera isn’t very good and they didn’t turn out very well. I took a few with my phone and they didn’t turn out to bad.  We got to bed late and Jacob and I were very tired yesterday.  Aaron and Ben are still sleeping until noon so it didn’t bother them.

Yeah!!! Aaron doesn’t have band this week.  What a relief!  He will have band practice next week and then for the rest of the summer. Ugh! At least he’ll have a ride to the high school and I will just need to pick him up.  I’m sure one day I miss all of this craziness in my life…well…maybe. 

TGIF

Friday, July 1, 2011 4:03 PM

TGIF…band is almost over for the week.  Honestly, Monday was the worst day.  Aaron’s dad has been helping with the transportation issue but I have been doing most of it.  Next week, Aaron doesn’t have any band practice…thankfully.  The following week I was able to set up a carpool for band practice.  Having the carpool will be such a help to me.  I wish I had one this week.

Jacob has been waiting to go see Transformers 3. Everyday for the past 2 weeks he has asked when we’re going to the movies.  I explained to Jacob I had to work on 6/29 the day the movie came out so we’d have to wait until Saturday to see it.  Jacob was upset but I promised him I would take him Saturday.  Well, last night Jacob told me I should stay home from work today so we could go see Transformers 3.  I told him I couldn’t stay home…Jacob told me to tell my work I was sick so I could stay home.  I was shocked!  I told Jacob I couldn’t lie about being sick.  He understood but I laughed to myself.  I can’t believe he wanted me to fake being sick…lol!  I guess I better keep an eye on him during the school year or he’ll be faking to be sick…   

Crazy

Wednesday, June 29, 2011 4:24 PM

This week has been terrible.  Aaron started band practice and he has to be at the high school by 6:00 PM every night this week. After work on Monday, I had to pick Jacob up at the pool which is where his afternoon summer program is located. Then, I had to go home to pick Aaron up so I could get him to the high school. Once Aaron was at the school, I decided to stop and get something quick to eat for dinner. Jacob went to sleep in the car while I was on my way to Burger King to grab us dinner before going home. It took me 2 hours to do all of that and I still had to go back and pick Aaron up at 9:30 PM that night. Also, I bought Jacob the wrong kids meal at BK so he started crying because I didn’t wake him up to ask him what he wanted. I even bought myself a kids meal so he could have 2 transformers toys that came with it.  Jacob cried again because they were the same toys and not different ones.  We were both tired at that point.  Jacob cried for about 20 minutes.  Finally he settled down and ate…what a relief! I hurried to get everything ready for the next day.  While I was doing that, Ben cut some grass then got a shower.  I quickly got Jacob a shower and we flew out the door. At 8:00, I met my brother in law at the mall parking lot.  He drives a truck and was going right thru town.  We visited with him for about an hour before he had to get back on the road and I had to go pick Aaron up at the high school. I finally made it home at 10:00 PM and was completely exhausted.  My head and my eyes hurt. I couldn’t wait to get in bed…1 day down and 4 more to go…UGH! 

Staying up late

Friday, June 24, 2011 4:24 PM

Aaron and Ben have been staying up half the night.  The next day they’re sleeping until noon or later.  They are totally off schedule…I guess it doesn’t matter since it is summer vacation.  The problem their dad hasn’t set any rules regarding bedtime so I have a difficult time enforcing a bedtime on them.  I’ve been awaking at 3:30 AM by them talking in the living room.  I still need to get up to go to work in the morning so this is becoming an issue for me.  I’m not sure what the solution is to this problem but I need to find one fast!

Jacob’s summer program started his week. He got to go swimming yesterday for the 1^sttime and he loved it! There are a few of his friends who are also in this program which has made Jacob very happy. When I picked him up yesterday Jacob was so exhausted he went to sleep in the car on the way home.  I’m really glad Jacob likes this summer program I just hope he likes it for the rest of the summer. 

No power

Friday, June 10, 2011 4:34 PM

The storms in this area have been extremely bad lately.  I’ve lost power at my house 4 times in the last 2 weeks.  The first time it was out for 24 hours. Last night, the power was out for just over 2 hours.  That wasn’t too bad but it was starting to get hot in the house and it’s really hard to entertain a 7 year without electrical devices. It was a good thing the DS was charged.  The portable DVD play was dead. I needed to use my phone as an alarm clock and it was nearly dead. So I had to charge my cell phone on my laptop which thankful had a full battery.  I had candles all over the house and it was still dark. Jacob was really bored and wanted to play Uno but it was just to dark to see the cards.  Aaron and Ben had their iPods to listen/play with so they survived the outage. I finally decided to put Jacob to bed around 10 PM and he crashed almost immediately. Not long later, the power was on! Yeah! I was soooo happy the power was back on so I could wash my hair today…it’s the little things that make me happy! 

Pool

Tuesday, June 7, 2011 5:19 PM

This year, I’m having a tough time getting my pool open. There was a pond on the top of my cover with a million tad poles on it. The boys and I really struggled to get the cover off. Then, I broke my pool pump on Saturday.  I’ve ordered the new part but it’ll take several days to arrive. So by then all of the work I’ve put into the pool won’t matter.  The pool will be green by the time I get the part.  I’m really disappointed and so was Jacob.  He’s been dying to get into the pool.  Jacob had his feet in the pool while I was trying to clean it and the next thing I know, he was soaked from his chest down.  The poor child just can’t wait to go swimming.  Aaron and Ben aren’t as crazy about the pool as they used to be because it’s only 4 feet deep.  Ben wants me to take the pool down because he’s tired of helping with it.  All he does is help with the cover!  The pool is extremely old so this maybe the last year for it anyway.  Jacob will certain be disappointed then.  

Fishing

Thursday, May 26, 2011 4:58 PM

Jacob loves to fish.  He and his dad go fishing at his Pap’s pond a lot in the summer.  A few years ago my sister bought Jacob a pretend fishing pole which doesn’t have a hook on the end but it does have real line.  He still plays with the pole in the yard when he’s bored.  Last week, Jacob decided to fish in the pool.  The cover is still on the pool and there is lots of water on the cover. There are even toads in the water. At this point, the pool really looks like a pond.  So I can understand why it’s so appealing to him.  Jacob has been fishing almost every day.  He is so adorable.  Saturday morning he was standing on the porch in his PJ’s fishing.  He had a blast pretending he caught a huge fish.   As I watched him I wished I could have frozen that moment and kept him 7 forever! 

No Stars

Friday, May 20, 2011 5:05 PM

Let’s see…Jacob has only received 1 star at school since his field trip on May 1^st.  He has been bad and just not listening to his teacher.  This really isn’t like him. Jacob pointed scissors at a few kids in his class.  I’ve explained to him how dangerous this behavior is and that I don’t think he would like it if someone did that to him.  We’ll see how today goes…Jacob might be spending a lot of time in his room this weekend.  It needs cleaned anyway so this will be a good opportunity for him do it. 

Spring cleaning

Tuesday, May 17, 2011 4:34 PM

I finally did it! I moved Jacob’s huge box out of my living room and to the downstairs on Sunday.  The boys were with their dad for the weekend so I took the opportunity to clean my house…what a job!  It rained a good bit over the weekend so I decided it was time to spring clean. I cleaned the kitchen, living room, bathroom and even my bedroom which is usually last on the list to be cleaned.  I didn’t clean any of the boy’s rooms.  Aaron and Ben are old enough to clean their rooms but Jacob needs some help. I didn’t touch Jacob’s room though because it’s such a mess.  I need a few trash bags with me when I finally get in there to clean it.  What a mess!!!

Well, my clean house lasted all of 2 minutes once the boys came home.  There were shoes and backpacks everywhere.  The boys are extremely bad about cleaning up after themselves.  I made a pile of their junk for each of them to put away or throw away when they got home. Now that the house is clean, I need to stay on the boys to help keep it that way.  That will be a job in itself! 

Failing Algebra

Friday, May 13, 2011 4:22 PM

Ben has me really upset because he is failing his Algebra class.  He has 3 weeks of school left to pull his grade up to passing.  I told Ben last night if he doesn’t pass this term, I’m taking his cell phone for the summer. I am sooooo furious with him.  He is very smart but obviously hasn’t been trying in Algebra at all.  Ben doesn’t like his teacher and I think a few of his friends are in the class with him. I’ve been trying to get Ben to try in this class most of the year but for some reason he refuses.  Last year he did extremely well in math and I know he can do much better than he is but at this point I bet he’s completely lost and doesn’t want to ask for help.  I’m not sure how or if I can get through to him. I need to call his dad tonight and fill him in on the situation. If we are both on the same page regarding Ben, we’ll have a better chance of getting through to him.  I really am at a loss with Ben lately. Tough love may just be the answer. I need to remember…I’m his mother first and his friend second! 

Baby birds

Wednesday, May 11, 2011 12:50 PM

Ben and Jacob have been getting along much better the last several days. I think it’s because Ben has been punished and he’s afraid to rock the boat.  Ben has even been taking Jacob into the front yard to play with him. Jacob has been on a search to find a bird’s nest.  I’ve heard some chirping coming from the garage area but Jacob and I weren’t able to see a nest anywhere.  The other night he and Ben were playing ball in the front yard. They were outside for a while before Jacob came running into the house.  He was so excited because he found a bird’s nest in the bush out front. Jacob took me outside to show me the 4 baby birds in the nest.  He told me all about how he found the nest and pointed to the mama bird on the phone wire near by.  I explained to Jacob that he couldn’t touch the birds or the mama wouldn’t take care of them anymore and he might make her angry.  I told Jacob we would check on the birds everyday to make sure the mama was caring for her babies. I’m glad he found the nest because it made him so happy. 

School trip

Thursday, May 5, 2011 12:09 PM

I took a day off of work to go with Jacob on his 1^stgrade school trip.  Wow! What a day. We went to the Children’s Museum in Pittsburgh.  I spent over 2 hours on a school bus one way with a bunch of 7 year olds.  The bus ride really wasn’t that bad.  However, I wasn’t very impressed with the museum.  I felt it wasn’t well organized.  Basically, the kids were taken to a room with several different activities and let loose.  There wasn’t any structure at all.  So, I was left trying to watch 3- 7 year old boys who went in 3 different directions.  They were all wearing a blue shirt…UGH!  Also, none of the teachers went along for the museum tour.  The teachers just left the students to be watched by the parents.  I couldn’t believe it.  In the end, I was really glad I decided to go on the trip with Jacob.  He had a great time on the trip and I took several pictures.  Also, his birthday was the next day so I got the chance to spend extra time with him. I guess what I’m saying is …it was completely worth it.   

Sunflower

Friday, April 29, 2011 5:00 PM

Jacob brought home a sunflower he planted at school yesterday. It’s about 2 inches high and in a very tiny planter.  Jacob wants to plant it outside.  I tried to explain to him that the sunflower was still small to put outside but he kept insisting.  I finally had to tell him it would get ran over by the mower if we put it outside now.  I explained to Jacob that we needed to replant the sunflower into a larger pot so it will grow.  So now, I need potting soil and a new planter for this sunflower.  I don’t know if the sunflower will survive or not but it would be perfect at the end of the garden. Well, that is if I plant a garden...I hope to.  I know Jacob would really enjoy it.  I wonder if I can get Ben and Aaron to dig up a small area for me.  Yeah right!  I can barely get them to mow the grass.  I guess I’ll need to bribe them…. 

Easter

Tuesday, April 26, 2011 4:54 PM

We all had a very nice Easter. Our dinner was Saturday night since the boys went with their dad on Sunday.  I did make a bunny cake for dessert. It was a yellow cake with chocolate icing…thus a chocolate bunny.  I decorated it with jelly beans and coconut.  It turned out really nice and Jacob thought the cake was great. Jacob and I died some eggs without spilling any dye.  Jacob also painted some Easter sun catchers.  He really had lots of fun.  Aaron and Ben played along with the Easter bunny for Jacob and even went on an egg hunt with him.  Why wouldn’t they…more candy is a great reason.  BTW…I bought too much candy this year…what was I thinking.  I was supposed to cut back not increase the candy intake. Oh well… Jacob got a pillow pet from the Easter bunny while Ben and Aaron got an iTunes gift card. The pillow pet is a dog with a blanket and it’s so soft and cuddly. Jacob has been sleeping with it every night. Adorable! 

Easter Bunny

Friday, April 22, 2011 4:23 PM

Jacob told me he didn’t want to go see the Easter Bunny this year because he’s not a kid…lol!  He’s still only 6 years old.  I told him lots of kids who are 6 or 7 still go see the Easter Bunny.  He told me that the bunny at the mall wasn’t the real Easter Bunny and he would pass on seeing the bunny. Honestly, I’m a little disappointed but I’m not going to force him to go see the Easter Bunny.

I have so much work to do to get ready for Easter.  I need to go grocery shopping so I can make Easter dinner.  It will only be the 4 of us but I still need food.  I also need to get the boys an Easter gift.  I always buy them a small present along with their candy.  The good news is that I have all of the candy bought. I’m going to make a bunny cake and I have all if the stuff for that.  Jacob and I are going to color eggs tomorrow but I need to buy the eggs.  I better make a list for the store or I’ll forget something important.  I hope to accomplish this after work today.  I hope I don’t forget anything.  Happy Easter!

More sleep

Friday, April 15, 2011 4:33 PM

So, I did a little reach regarding teenagers and sleeping patterns.  What I discovered is that Ben is a typical teenager.  There have been many studies over the years about teenagers requiring more sleep.  Apparently, the latest research indicates that the need for sleep in teens is a biological issue. Teenager’s internal clock tends to naturally want to them be up later at night and sleep in later every morning. The schedules we have in our society don’t work with this biology.  Ben stays up late on the weekend then will sleep until noon if I let him the next day.  When Monday morning arrives, he has to wake up by 7:00 AM.  This change in schedule creates a sleep deficit.  The research states that by the end of a given week most teens have a minimum of 10 hours sleep deficit.  This pattern (which is normal) messes up teen’s internal clock. This is why Ben will come home after school and crash by mid week.  After a few days, Ben doesn’t need a nap after school to function.  I thought I would find information to support that Ben was just “growing” so he needed more sleep.  I am definitely less worried about Ben now. See what a little research can do.

Sleeping too much?

Tuesday, April 12, 2011 5:09 PM

Ben has really been sleeping a lot.  I think it’s just because he’s growing but he sleeps all of the time.  I’m trying to decide if I need to be concerned or not.  I know teenagers need more sleep but I’m a little worried about him.  How do you know when the sleeping is too much?  When do I get concerned enough to take Ben to the doctor?  I don’t believe I’m at that point yet but I’d rather be safe than sorry.  I don’t think Ben’s depressed or doing anything he shouldn’t be doing but I feel that I need to keep a watch on him just to be sure. His attitude has even been better in the last month or so.  I don’t know what has caused the change but I like it. Maybe I should do a little research on the internet. Google is a wonderful tool if used in moderation.  I think I’ll take sometime tonight to search the internet on teen sleeping. Hopefully, I’ll learn a few important facts that I should know and I can use on my boys. 

Box

Friday, April 8, 2011 4:50 PM

This box of Jacob’s has been in my living for a month and ½ now.  It’s really driving me crazy because it takes up so much room but I really don’t have any other place to put it.  Jacob now has a chair, more pictures and an air freshener in his box.  It’s actually really adorable.  He loves it and I don’t have the heart to trash the box.  I was sort of hoping the box would fall apart or get destroyed some way.  I know that is a terrible thought but the box needs a new home or I need a smaller box for Jacob to play in. Maybe when Jacob goes to his dad’s house for the weekend, I can get rid of the box.  I’m afraid that Jacob would get very upset with me if I did that to his little house when he wasn’t around. I’m really stuck here with this box.  I need help!  

Pierced Ear

Tuesday, April 5, 2011 5:04 PM

This morning, I was trying to rush Jacob along so we could get out the door for school/work.  He was being a little busy body and wouldn’t go brush his teeth. He picked up one of my earrings and asked me how they pierce my ears.  I explained to Jacob that they used a gun to pierce my ears.  Jacob wanted to know if it hurt me.  I told him that there was a pinch and it hurt a little but I didn’t cry.  I also told Jacob that I was about 7 years old when I had my ears pierced. A minute later, Jacob told me he wanted to pierce one of his ears.  His friend has a pierced ear so he wants one.  I told him I didn’t think that boys at his age should have their ear pierced.  Jacob was insistent about wanting it done.  So, I told him to we would have to talk about it later and that he had to ask his dad. Also, I added that it did hurt and I don’t think he would want it done.  I didn’t have time to argue with him this morning but there is no way Jacob will be getting his ear pierced at age 6!  

Birthday Story

Friday, April 1, 2011 4:12 PM

Yesterday was Aaron’s 16^thbirthday.  Wow! There’s nothing like your son turning 16 to make you feel old. He’s almost ready to get his driver’s license but I’m not ready for him to drive. Every year on the boys’ birthday, I tell them their “birthday story” about the day they were born.  I include the time they were born and what the weather was like the day they were born. I tell the boys what they weighted and how long they were at birth.  They’re at the point that they all know what it was like when each of them was born.  I started this “birthday story” because I really don’t know much about when I was born.  I only have my siblings to ask and they don’t remember too much about the day I was born.  So, I thought it would be nice for the boys to hear a story every year, a story that’s just about them.  When they were younger the boys would really get into the story.  Now, they pretty much know all of the answers.  My hope is that my boys will remember their story long after I’m gone and share their children’s “birthday story” with them.

Tubing

Tuesday, March 29, 2011 4:33 PM

Since I took the day off on Friday, I decided to take the boys tubing at Wisp Resort.  We packed our snow pants (some I had borrowed) and loaded up the car. Jacob was so excited even though we weren’t sure if he was old enough to go tubing by himself.  Aaron and Ben were looking forward to it as well. Out of the four of us, Aaron is the only one who had been tubing before.  He kept insisting we didn’t need the snow pants because he was warm when he went a few years ago.   So, I drove us the hour to Wisp Resort.  Once I figured out where to go, I parked and got our stuff out of the car while Jacob cried he didn’t want to wear his snow pants.  I sent Aaron and Ben up to the door to make sure we were in the right place as I argued with Jacob about the pants.  It was colder and windier at resort then it was at my house but that’s what I expected. I figured if we went tubing from 1:00 PM -5:00 PM it would be the warmest part of the day and 3-4 hours was plenty of time.  Well…guess what?  There wasn’t enough snow for tubing so Wisp wasn’t going to open until 5:00 PM.  At 1:30 PM in the afternoon what is a person supposed to do with 3 boys?  I tried to think of something we could do for a few hours but there really was nothing else over there to do.  Plus, it would have been much colder at night.  So, we left while Jacob cried some more.  I felt terrible but I had no idea they would run out of fake snow!  We were all disappointed….   

Spring break

Thursday, March 24, 2011 4:35 PM

Day 2 of spring break went much better.  Aaron woke up with Jacob instead of Ben.  I’ve had Aaron and Ben taking turns getting up with Jacob so they can each have a day to sleep in until about noon.   Aaron and Jacob hardly fight at all.  Jacob looks up to Aaron not only as a big brother but as role model also.  I’ve told Aaron that Jacob is his “little buddy”.  Jacob constantly wants to hang out with Aaron.  It’s really adorable.  Most of the time Aaron doesn’t mind however, occasionally he will complain to me and I will make Jacob give Aaron some space.

Day 3 of spring break was not as bad as day # 1 but wasn’t as good as day # 2 either.  Ben woke up with Jacob again on day # 3. I received another phone call shortly after they woke up.  Jacob called to ask me who was the “bigger boss” in the house…Aaron or Ben?  What…why, I asked.  Jacob proceeded to tell me that Ben thought he was the “bigger boss” and not Aaron.  I explained to Jacob that since Aaron was still sleeping, Ben is the “bigger boss” at the moment.  Of course, Jacob wasn’t satisfied with that answer.  Jacob just wanted me to tell him that Aaron was in charge no matter what.  I told Jacob he had to listen to Ben because Aaron was still sleeping.  Jacob doesn’t want to listen to Ben because he’s not the “bigger boss”.  UGH!!!

Day 4 of spring break has had no issues at all that I am aware of.  Aaron woke up with Jacob…

Day 5 of spring break…mom has taken the day off of work to spend time with her boys.  Wish me luckJ

Spring Break

Tuesday, March 22, 2011 5:00 PM

The boys are on spring break this week.  We’re off to just an “ok” start this week. Yesterday morning Jacob called me to complain about Ben.  Apparently, Ben wouldn’t allow Jacob to eat his pop tarts and milk in my bedroom while watching TV.  Let me first tell you that Jacob knows how to use the house phone but not a cell phone.  So, Jacob called me at work from the house phone to complain.  I sided with Ben…of course.  Well, this made Jacob mad and he hung up the phone on me.  I was shocked, my 6 year old hung up on me!  I decided I would need to deal with Jacob when I got home that night.  About 15 minutes later, I got a call from Ben’s cell phone and it was Jacob.  The first thing he said was, “I’m sorry mommy.”  I told Jacob that it wasn’t nice of him to hang up on me but I forgave him.  I also told him not to do it again.  Jacob said, “Ok” and began to cry.  I felt terrible and had to tell him it was ok and that I loved him.  Jacob did settle down and he let me talk to Ben.  Apparently, there was a little more fighting going on at my house in between phone calls but it had all been worked out.  Thank goodness! The final call of the day was Jacob again; he was complaining that he wanted his turn on the X-box also.  As I was talking to Jacob, I could here Ben and Aaron arguing in the back round about whose turn it was on the X-box.   I reassured Jacob that he would have his turn and then I spoke with Ben again to explain they all needed to take turns on the X-box.  So at this point, I was concerned with how the rest of the day was going to go because these three calls came in less than 1 hour…Thankfully, there were no more issues yesterday.  We all survived! 

Stars

Friday, March 18, 2011 5:05 PM

Jacob and I have come up with a new reward system at home in conjunction with his reward he earns from school.  So far, it’s been only slightly successful.  Jacob brought home a sheet of star stickers a few weeks ago. These sticks are multicolored and were very appealing to him. So, I decided to use these stars on our calendar at home if Jacob received a star at school. I explained to Jacob he could pick which color star he would put on the calendar each night. Jacob thought it was a great idea. So far…there aren’t too many stars on our calendar. He has managed to get a few more stars this month than he had all of last month.  I guess you could say it’s a work in progress.  I really have exhausted all of my ideas regarding Jacob’s behavior in school.  Don’t get me wrong…Jacob is not what I would call “bad” in school…just ornery. Anyone have any suggestions? 

Playhouse

Tuesday, March 15, 2011 5:02 PM

Jacob thinks the greatest invention EVERY is a cardboard box!  I purchased a cabinet for my bathroom and the boys (all of them) wanted me to keep the box the cabinet came in so they could play in it.  I was reluctant because the box is huge but my sister convinced me to keep it for a while.  Well, I’ve now had this box or Jacob’s “house” as we now call it for a month.  This box has migrated from my kitchen to the living room.  It takes up too much space in my house but it has been well worth the trouble.  Jacob has lights, carpeting and shelves in his house.  He lies in the box and plays in it all the time. After searching for Aaron the other day, I found him sitting in the box.  Ben was the one who suggested I keep the box and he’s in it the least (as far as I know). This box is certainly getting use so I’m glad I kept it.  I told Jacob I was just going to buy him another box for his birthday and nothing else.  Jacob had a shocked look on his face but I told him I was only kidding with him. He loves this box.  I think I should get him a playhouse for outside. I bet he’d really love that!  Well…after looking online at the playhouses, I think Jacob will need to stick with the cardboard box.  Those houses are outrageous!  I’m very disappointed. 

Sea Horse

Wednesday, March 9, 2011 4:19 PM

Jacob and I went to the book fair at his school last night.  I bought him several books recently so I told Jacob he wasn’t getting too many new books last night.  He had a list of books he wanted to buy because the children had visited the book fair one day last week. We gathered all of the books Jacob wanted to purchase but some of them were too difficult for him.  I was very proud of Jacob because after carefully examining the books he chose 1 book to buy which was right at his reading level.  Jacob chose a book about Sea Horses.  Jacob also wanted this fancy pen they had there.  It’s blue with a bird on top of it, when you squeeze the bird its eyes pop out of its head.  Last night, after dinner, Jacob read me his new book.  He’s really interested in learning more about Sea Horses now and even wants to go to the pet store so he can buy a Sea Horse for a pet. Can you even do that??? I really have no idea if you can buy a Sea Horse at a pet store.  I guess we’ll be looking at the pet store this weekend.   

My sister

Friday, March 4, 2011 5:00 PM

Everyday is a challenge when you are a single parent.  Anyone who hasn’t been in this situation can only imagine how difficult it can be.  There is no one to turn to for decisions or assistance with the children, the house or school.  Let’s not forget to mention going to work and supporting yourself and kids.  When you wrap all that together, it can be overwhelming and draining emotionally.

The other day I was on the phone to my sister which is almost a daily occurrence. As usual, we discussed our personal issues such as men and kids. Our children are around the same age so we can really relate to one another. There is one difference; my sister has been married for 20 years.  She gave me a big complement which surprised me because we don’t always agree on issues. She told me that I was a strong person and that I was doing a good job with the boys.  I really don’t see myself as a strong person…just a mom doing what I need to do.  Thank you sister for the encouragement!  

Happy birthday!

Tuesday, March 1, 2011 4:20 PM

Today is Ben’s 14^thbirthday.  I can hardly believe that 14 years ago he fought his way into this world.  We were living in Ohio at the time he was born which seems like a lifetime ago.  It was a fairly warm and stormy day on March 1, 1997.  Unseasonably warm sort of like yesterday.  I’ve always heard that March comes in like a “lion” and goes out like a “lamb”.  For the last several years, I’ve found that saying to be very true.  You see, Ben was born on March 1^stand Aaron was born on March 31^st.  Ben or the lion is trying to be king and Aaron (the oldest son) is a lamb but will always be king (according to Ben…anyway).  The funny part of this is that Aaron isn’t bothered by any of this.  Ben however is extremely bothered by the fact that he is not the oldest and since Jacob was born...he is now longer the youngest either.  I love all of my boys for who they are and what they will become.  Like I tell my son…you are my favorite 14 year old!  Happy birthday!!!  

Sandals

Friday, February 25, 2011 4:45 PM

Ben and I are having a disagreement…imagine that!  He wants me to buy him sandals for his birthday.  I know what you’re thinking…what a birthday gift.  He asked me to get them for him because they’re fairly expensive and Ben knows I wouldn’t normally spend that much money on sandals for him. So, I agreed to buy him these Air Jordan sandals for his birthday. A few days later we were looking on the internet at the sandals when Ben told me he wants white ones.  I didn’t think Ben was serious at first but he insisted he was.  I told Ben there was no way I was buying him white sandals because they will get dirty very easily…Ben will get them dirty in a day. Oh, he also wants to wear black socks with the sandals.  What a look! Well, Ben is upset with me because I said, “No way, I’m not buying those sandals!”  After a little disagreement, Ben informed me he would ask his dad to buy the sandals instead.  So, now I’m angry with Ben because he’s going to play me against his dad. Do you think I’m wrong or being mean for not wanting to buy white sandals for a boy?  I suppose Ben’s the one who has to wear them…not me.  I don’t think I can do it…sorry son. 

Visit

Tuesday, February 22, 2011 4:32 PM

My friend and her daughter from MD were in town for a visit over the weekend.  We had a nice time catching up on what’s been happening in our lives. We chat on the phone often but that’s not the same as hanging out together. I miss having her here in town.  I can’t believe it’s been over 10 years since she moved away. I really need to go visit her sometime this summer.  Maybe, I’ll make a girls weekend out of the trip! Although, I think the boys would be disappointed if I went without them.  She lives at the beach so I think it would be very selfish if I went to the beach without them. I’ll have to figure out when I’m able to take vacation this year and start planning. We all love the beach and the boardwalk.  I can’t wait until summer. I’m really excited just thinking about being on the beach in the sun. Jacob likes playing in the sand while Aaron and Ben love to boogie board. Unfortunately, I have a very small budget for a trip to the beach.  So I guess we’ll just have to survive off of PB & J for the week!  There are worst things…right? 

Concern

Friday, February 18, 2011 5:11 PM

I’m a little concerned about Jacob’s hand from the break because it’s still slightly swollen.  He goes back to the doctor next week to have it checked out but I was hoping he would be able to play in his last basketball game tomorrow but I’m not sure if he should.  The team is going to Dairy Queen after the game tomorrow for ice cream. Jacob is with his dad this weekend so I hope he takes Jacob to get ice cream with his friends. I know Jacob wants play in the game and get ice cream; hopefully it all works out for him. Maybe, if Jacob’s dad doesn’t want to take him to DQ… I can.

Ben hasn’t been working very hard in his Algebra I class.  He has turned his work in late several times. So now is grade is a “C” and he’s missing a “B” by .04.  Of course, the “C” is not his fault.  Ben is an extremely bright boy but he refuses to apply himself.  I’m not sure what to do about it.  I recently told Ben if his grades didn’t improve, I would not be renewing his X-box live account.  I hope the threat of no X-box live will be enough of a push on Ben to improve his grades.   

Valentine's Day

Tuesday, February 15, 2011 5:24 PM

Valentine’s Day can be a terrible holiday for some people. I even know a few people who struggled through the holiday this year.  I can completely relate to people who are alone on Valentine’s Day. I guess I should say ‘women’ who find Valentine’s Day to be depressing.  This year I tried to find the positive aspects of Valentine’s Day which of course lead me to my boys and particularly Jacob.  On Sunday, he wrote out his Valentine’s Day cards for school. He also wrote one out for me, his dad, and brothers. Jacob also attached candy to the cards for each of us.  He laid my card in my bedroom and told me not to open it until Monday. So I didn’t touch it.  Monday morning…Valentine’s Day…Jacob gave me the card as soon as he woke up.  He gave me a big hug, a kiss and said I love you mommy.  This was the best present I could ask for…  I hope everyone else found joy like I did.  

Hand

Tuesday, February 8, 2011 5:42 PM

Jacob had his cast removed yesterday.  However, his hand is not quite healed so the doctor has him wearing a splint for a few more days.  I hope that the splint is enough protection for his hand. Six year old little boys are rough on themselves.  Jacob’s not allowed to participate in gym for 1 more week.  Hopefully, that will be long enough for his hand to heal completely.  I almost wish the doctor put his hand back in the cast so it would be more protected.  I suppose it’s only for a few more days but I had to lecture all of the boys about NOT rough housing.  I’m sure that went right in one ear and out the other just like everything else does that I tell my kids.  I hope Jacob heals ok in the next few weeks because I’d like to take the boys tubing.  I’ve never been tubing before and I think it will be lots of fun for all of us. 

Cold

Friday, February 4, 2011 5:10 PM

Aaron had a terrible cold last week which he was nice enough to share with me. He was ill for several days. I felt horrible for 2 days and actually missed work on Wednesday due to my cold which is rare for me. I’m starting to feel better today so hopefully by the time the weekend is over, I’ll be completely better.  I just hope the other 2 boys don’t get this nasty cold. It really knocked me down. With my luck, it will turn into a sinus infection. Aaron and I have been taking Nyquil so we can get a little sleep.  I felt like the people Nyquil commercial…the one where the people were passed out on the bed with tissue surrounding them. Nyquil did knock me out for a while but unfortunately, this time my head was so congested that I woke up in the middle of the night and couldn’t get back to sleep.  Usually, Nyquil works well for me even though the stuff tastes nasty. Honestly, it was well worth the taste to get some sleep.     

Repair

Tuesday, February 1, 2011 5:32 PM

The boys and I survived the weekend with a cooler in the kitchen.  It wasn’t too bad actually.  If you’ve ever been camping…I mean really camping in a tent last weekend was much better.  I didn’t even have to buy ice. I just shoveled snow into the cooler to keep our beverages cold.  The refrigerator repairman arrived yesterday but he was 2 hours and 10 minutes late yesterday.  It took him about 20 minutes to repair the fridge and cost me $131.39. I’m just glad he showed up last night, that he fixed the fridge and I felt the price was reasonable.  I think I should have received a phone call from the repairman’s office letting me know that he was running behind and that he had been all day.  The man was very nice and new what he was doing but a phone call would have been nice.  I do have other things to do such as pick Jacob up from his after school program and cook dinner.  Both of which I was able to do but I had to call his office to see if he was still going to come to my house for my repair. I suppose I should be happy and I am.  

Bad luck

Friday, January 28, 2011 4:45 PM

Well, I’ve had more bad luck this week.  My refrigerator is broken.  On Wednesday night at 11:00 PM, I opened it to get something out for dinner the next night.  Guess what I found…everything inside was completely thawed out.  Do you believe my luck?  At 11:00 PM, what are you supposed to do at that time of night when this happens? I wanted to cry but I didn’t.  Fortunately for me, my old refrigerator is in the “detached” garage.  So, I loaded everything I thought I could salvage in to plastic bags and put it all in the garage refrigerator. What a nightmare!  The good news is that I found a repair man who can come out on Monday to fix it….Monday!  So, I guess the boys and I will have to survive through the weekend with a cooler in the kitchen.  I’m just thankful I kept my very old and dirty refrigerator in the garage for such an emergency. 

Cast

Tuesday, January 25, 2011 5:06 PM

Ben and Jacob fight all the time.  I have been warning them that someone was going to get hurt. Well, it finally happened.  Jacob got mad at Ben on Friday night because Ben ate the piece of candy he wanted. Apparently, it was Jacob’s candy and the last piece.  I wasn’t there at the time because the boys were at their dad’s house.  So, Jacob hauled of and punched Ben in the head. Thankfully, Ben is just fine…hard headed as he is. Jacob however, fractured his hand and is now sporting a cast. Jacob didn’t get his cast until Monday afternoon. Fortunately, for Jacob he will only have to wear the cast for about 2 weeks. Jacob is so proud of his cast and he can’t wait to get everyone to sign it. I’m hoping that will be long enough to teach Jacob that it’s not ok to hit anyone.  It’s a hard lesson to learn but a necessary one! 

Where is spring?

Thursday, January 20, 2011 4:46 PM

 I am soooooo tired of all this snow! I’m ready for spring and spring flowers and I don’t want to wait 2 more months for them to arrive.  The boys love the snow and I know I did also when I was a kid. As an adult, it’s very difficult for a working parent to deal with the school closings and delays.  At this point, I’m fortunate that Aaron and Ben are old enough to watch Jacob on snow days.  When there is a delay, Ben watches Jacob until I come home from work to take them to school.  It takes my lunch hour round trip but at least I’m able to get them to school.  I wish I had a neighbor who could take the boys to school for me.  I only live about 5 minutes from the school but most people work or have their own children to get to school.  I’ll need to figure out something for next year because Ben will be in high school with Aaron and I certainly can't leave Jacob home alone.

Game

Tuesday, January 18, 2011 4:38 PM

The boys and I went to the WVU Basketball game over the weekend.  We had a really great time.  I bought us all a water ice and popcorn.  Jacob made such a mess. He spilled the water ice under his chair which proceeded to melt throughout the game.  I cleaned it up as best as I could but it’s difficult with those cheap napkins they have.  Then, he spilled the last of the popcorn on the floor.  It was the first basketball game we’ve went to this season so I wanted to treat the boys to snacks but I felt like it was such a waste of money because the snacks are so expensive at the games.  The game was really exciting and Jacob got right into the craziness with the crowd.  Aaron and I like to watch the games a lot but Ben isn’t the biggest fan.  I basically had to make him go to the game.  Once we were there, Ben got into the game (I knew he would).  We stayed for the entire game because it was so close and exciting.  Once we left, it took us almost an hour to get out of the parking lot after the game.  I suppose it was well worth the wait…the game was great!   

Pay back

Friday, January 14, 2011 4:32 PM

Ben asked to go to the Snoop Dogg concert next month without adult supervision with one of his friends. Aaron is going to his first concert in a few weeks without adult supervision.  However, Aaron is almost 16 and is not a problem child.  Ben on the other hand is almost 14 but he has been getting into some trouble recently.  I have been telling Ben for some time now that if he didn’t straighten up and start listening, he would not be allow to do some of the things he would want to do.  Well, that time has finally arrived.  I explained to Ben that he has been getting in trouble at school for talking and his grades have dropped a little.  Ben also gets smart (or mouthy) with me at times.  I was very surprised by Ben’s reaction when I told him “No”.  He just said, “Ok mom”.  Ben didn’t argue with me at all.  What a surprise!  I also explained to Ben that I knew he really wanted to go and I wanted him to go to the concert but I had thought long and hard about this but had to say, “No”.  I really hated being the bad guy in this situation but A little part of me also wanted to say, “I told you this would happen son”.

Baby

Friday, January 7, 2011 5:07 PM

Ben had a choice to make regard his health class assignment.  Option #1 was to write a 500 word essay on the “Complications of Pregnancy”. Option #2 was to bring home a fake baby for 2 nights. Guess which option Ben chose.  He chose the baby.  So, for the last 2 nights he had to care for this new born baby boy.  The baby cried, needed fed, rocked and diapers changed.  I tried to offer assistance to Ben the first evening when he seemed to be struggling but he was grouchy and didn’t want it.  So, I told Ben he would have to care for his baby himself!  Later that night Ben apologized to me.  In the mean time, Jacob was dying to hold and rock this baby but Ben wouldn’t let him because he would be graded for his proper care of the baby and was afraid that Jacob would drop the baby.  Finally…Ben gave in and let Jacob rock the baby.  OMG…Jacob was so cute.  He rocked and kissed the baby.  I took a few pictures because it was just so adorable. Ben on the other hand, wouldn’t allow me to get his picture with the baby.  This baby even woke Ben up in the middle of the night to be fed and rocked.  I didn’t hear the baby cry the first night but did hear it the second night.  Needless to say, Ben has been exhausted the last few days.  I love it…great birth control! 

Time to relax

Monday, January 3, 2011 3:10 PM

I can’t believe the holidays are over. All of the craziness of shopping, working, cleaning and cooking is finished until next year.  Last week just flew by for me.  I’m really glad it did since the boys were with their dad all week.  They came home Saturday afternoon to find that we had no cable or internet all day.  Thank goodness for video games and movies to occupy the kids.  I was even bored out of my mind so I watched “The Bucket List”.  I hadn’t seen it for a while and it’s a good movie so I curled up on the bed and watched it.  

I played “Just Dance” for the Wii for the first time over the weekend.  It’s really a lot of fun!  I played with some friends on New Year Eve…what a blast!  So, I decided to buy the game for me and the boys.  I wasn’t sure if they would enjoy it but I thought we could try it out.  Ben and I tried it out together first.  He really got into it with me.  Jacob didn’t want to play until he saw how fun it was. Not only is it a fun way to interact with the kids, its great exercise. The game is also challenging on many levels. Ben, Jacob and I all enjoyed the game. Aaron didn’t give the game a chance.  He wasn’t interested in the game at all.  I’m not giving up on him…I’ll try to get him to do the moves 1 more time.       

Santa

Tuesday, December 28, 2010 12:33 PM

Aaron and Ben helped play Santa this year for the first time.  Not only were they a big help, I also enjoyed having them around.  Playing Santa by yourself really sucks!  I think Aaron was the one who was the most excited other than Jacob of course.  Jacob got a new camera for Christmas from my sister.  I let him open it a few days early since he would be leaving to go to his dad’s house in the afternoon on Christmas Day.   He drove me crazy with the camera.  He was upset because it would only hold 20 pictures.  He dropped the camera, the batteries came out and he lost all the pictures.  Jacob cried and cried.  I told him we’d tape the bottom so it didn’t happen again which helped to settle him down.  Then Jacob wanted to set the camera up so he could take pictures of Santa putting the presents under the tree.  Thank goodness he forgot all about that by Christmas Eve night.  All in all we had a great holiday.  I’m sad that the boys will be with their dad all week but next year it’s my turn. 

Merry Christmas!

Wednesday, December 22, 2010 4:52 PM

Christmas tree up….√

House decorated…√

Christmas presents bought…√

Presents wrapped…√

House cleaned…yeah right!

Cookies baked… not yet!

Food for Christmas dinner…haven’t a clue!

Mom loosing her mind…√

I hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas!

Moon

Tuesday, December 21, 2010 5:21 PM

I think I’ve finally lost it. Last night Ben told me he wanted to get up at 3:00AM because there was a once in a lifetime opportunity for him.  He asked, “Do you know what that is?”  I said, “Yes, you want to see the lunar eclipse.”  I was right too.  Ben decided to set his alarm clock so he could wake up at 3:00AM.  I told Ben to wake me up so I could see the eclipse with him. Crazy right?  Well, that’s not the worst of it.  Ben didn’t wake me up at 3:00AM but I woke up on my own at 3:15AM.  I decided to look out the window to see if I could find the moon.  No such luck!  So, I put my boots and coat on and headed out the door into the front yard.  There was still no moon.  Really???  I’m outside at 3:20AM in my PJ’s to see the lunar eclipse and all I could see were clouds. I went back inside and went to bed a little disappointed.  A half an hour later, Ben woke me up.  I quickly explained to Ben that I was already outside and it was to cloudy to see the moon.  He went right back to bed.  What a night.  I hardly slept at all.  I did however get to see pictures on the internet of the lunar eclipse.  I should have done that in the first place!  

snow storm

Friday, December 17, 2010 4:56 PM

This has been such a hectic week.  I’m trying to pull everything together for Christmas.  The weather has turned bad and the boys got out of school early yesterday.  Aaron spent nearly 2 hours on the bus trying to get home.  Finally, the bus stopped at the middle school to get more kids. He called me to ask if I would drive down to the middle school to get him. I did but this was after I already picked Ben up from the middle school and Jacob from the elementary school. The roads were awful and there was unbelievable traffic.  I spent 2 ½ hours on the road in the middle of the snow storm yesterday.  It was not fun at all.  In all of my travels, I only saw 1 snow plow.  Where were all of them? Once I finally made it home, my neck was sore and stiff. I hate driving in a snow storm especially when I have the kids with me.  I’m just thankful we all made it home safely.  Unfortunately, winter is just getting started so there will be several more snowy days. I can’t wait until spring!

Almost there.

Tuesday, December 14, 2010 5:20 PM

I finally have a Christmas tree in the house!  Most of the presents are bought but still need to be wrapped.  Jacob and I baked cookies on Saturday but they are almost gone at this point.  With 3 boys in the house, I’m surprised there are any cookies left at all.  I’m actually guilty of eating my fair share as well. I’ll have to bake more cookies before Christmas so Jacob has some to leave for Santa.  The boys have begun their count down to Christmas.  All of them are excited for Christmas.  I hope they like their gifts.  This year, there is a “big” family gift not a “big” individual gift.  I think Aaron and Ben will be happy with it.  I’m not so sure about Jacob but I have bought him a few extras to help out. Jacob and I have been discussing the reason for Christmas.  He knows why we celebrate Christmas but it’s really cute to hear him describe it to someone else.  Jacob says, “Christmas is Jesus birthday that’s why we get presents”.  I know there is so much more he needs to learn and he will...

Running out of time!

Friday, December 10, 2010 5:16 PM

My brother left for Arizona yesterday.  I was sad to see him leave.  The boys liked having him around the house.  Ben’s attitude was even better while mu brother was visiting.  I guess you could say he was on his best behavior!  Greg has a long trip a head of him I hope he doesn’t have a problem while he’s on the road. Greg is supposed to keep me up to date on his location though out his trip.  I’m not sure how long he’ll be in Arizona but if he likes it there Greg is going to buy a house.  I guess the boys and I can visit him then but I doubt he stays there…it’s hot.

Is everyone ready for X-mas???  I’m not!  I hope to be ready after this weekend but I have lots of work to do to pull that off.  Our X-mas tree isn’t even up yet.  I have not 1 decoration in the house for X-mas.  I did manage to get some wrapping done a few days ago.  I have a few more presents to buy and cookies to make.  Then, I’ll be ready for X-mas.  I better get ready because I’m running out of time…fast! 

Car trouble

Friday, December 3, 2010 4:17 PM

Talking

Tuesday, November 30, 2010 5:25 PM

Thanksgiving

Monday, November 22, 2010 4:50 PM

Happy Thanksgiving!

Grouchy

Friday, November 19, 2010 4:25 PM

Listen...

Tuesday, November 16, 2010 5:08 PM

Wrestling

Friday, November 12, 2010 5:06 PM

It's starting already

Tuesday, November 9, 2010 4:52 PM

Tutor

Friday, November 5, 2010 4:44 PM

Aaron got is first report card for this school year on Monday.  He actually got his first “C” ever in his honors algebra II class. I can’t believe he’s in 10^th grade and has never ever had a “C”. I’m just a little disappointed but not in him rather for him. Aaron works so hard to do well in school and he is obviously very smart.  His GPA is a 3.8 with this “C”.  I’ve considered moving him out of the honors class but after speaking with the guidance councilor, I’ve decided to send Aaron to tutoring 1 day a week after school instead of taking him out of the honors class.  Aaron wants to go to engineering school so I think he needs to learn how to get help of he finds school work difficult.  I was also concerned about the Promise Scholarship for Aaron.  However, I was informed of the current requirements and feel comfortable with Aaron’s grades at this point so I’m not going to push for any changes at this time.  I sure hope this is the right decision.

Funny

Friday, October 29, 2010 4:42 PM

Turning point

Friday, October 22, 2010 4:48 PM

Yelling

Tuesday, October 19, 2010 1:34 PM

Difficult child

Friday, October 15, 2010 5:03 PM

Not the parent

Tuesday, October 12, 2010 4:54 PM

Temper

Friday, October 8, 2010 4:36 PM

Permit

Friday, October 1, 2010 12:17 PM

Halloween already

Wednesday, September 29, 2010 11:53 AM

Prend teacher

Friday, September 24, 2010 4:24 PM

Halo

Friday, September 17, 2010 4:41 PM

Tooth ordeal

Tuesday, September 14, 2010 4:49 PM

Toothless

Friday, September 10, 2010 4:40 PM

Change

Wednesday, September 8, 2010 5:02 PM

Loss

Tuesday, August 31, 2010 5:08 PM

1st Football game

Friday, August 27, 2010 4:58 PM

Vacation's over

Saturday, August 21, 2010 10:56 PM

I can’t believe how fast my vacation has went this week. I only have 1 more day to relax before returning to work. Didn’t accomplish nearly as much around the house as I would have liked. Oh well, it dirt isn’t going anywhere. I did manage to get the boys all ready to start school on Monday. They have new shoes, backpacks and some new cloths. Hopefully, I didn’t forget anything. I’m sure once the boys start school there will be a list of supplies I need to purchase for them.

Relax?

Wednesday, August 18, 2010 11:40 AM

So far, my vacation hasn't been as relaxing as I had hoped.  I've been running Aaron around all week for band and various other events.  If he weren't such a  good kid, he wouldn't be allowed to do half of the things he does.  In addition to band, he wants to play basketball this year (if he makes the team).  This means more running around for me.  I really enjoy watching him play basketball, it is my favorite sport.  I'll somehow figure out a way for him to play basketball if that's what he really wants.

Jacob has been driving me crazy this week.  I bought him 2 Transformers for his so called good behavior while Ben watched him last week. Now, Jacob has a list of Transformers he wants me to buy for him.  He has been pestering me everyday.  I finally told Jacob I'm not buying him anymore toys right now and if he doesn't stop bugging me, I'll start taking away the Transformers he does have.  Aren't six year olds fun???

Ben has had the X-box controller stuck to his hand all week, no wait all summer. I have tried to get him interested in something, anything...unsuccessfully.  I think Ben's goal this summer was to become a couch potato which he has completely accomplished.  He has gained a few pounds which has made it difficult to buy school pants for him because he is in between boys and men sizes.  Hopefully, he'll get just a little taller over the next few months which will help me greatly in the pants department.

Corner

Wednesday, August 11, 2010 12:50 PM

Bribes

Friday, August 6, 2010 4:59 PM

Sitter

Wednesday, August 4, 2010 5:13 PM

A little chat!

Friday, July 30, 2010 4:50 PM

I need a break...

Tuesday, July 27, 2010 5:37 PM

Parent's Day

Friday, July 23, 2010 4:56 PM

I hated to say "No"

Tuesday, July 20, 2010 5:36 PM

Letting go...

Friday, July 16, 2010 4:25 PM

Update...

Wednesday, July 14, 2010 12:33 PM

TIRED!

Saturday, July 10, 2010 11:31 PM

Tired does not even begin to describe how I have felt all week.  I haven't been able to sleep at all. I don't know why I stress about my life...maybe it's because I'm always busy.  Also, some how I manage to catch a cold.  Thanks to Airborne my cold wasn't that severe.

Some how I managed to accomplish everything I needed to for work by the Friday noon deadline.  I did work late one night and Aaron was a big help to me on Thursday.  I have been picking Aaron up from band practice on my lunch everyday and talking him home.  On Thursday, he had to come back to my office so I put him to work.  He whined a little then did what I asked him to do.  I gave Aaron some ice cream we had in the freezer which made him happy.  I told Aaron he should come to work with me once a week to help me and I would by him ice cream for his payment.  He didn't seem to go for my suggestion but I thought it was a great idea.

After work, I pick Jacob up at the pool which is where he goes for his summer program.  I'm not real happy with the arrangement so far but I'm not sure what I can do about it at this point.  This week Jacob had a bruised eye and a hurt neck.  He was there four days and got hurt twice.  I'm not sure I like those odds.  Jacob said no one jumped on him or hurt him.  I told Jacob he needs to settle down and take more breaks from the pool.  I must be crazy to think a 6 year old would listen to that advise.  However, it did make me fell a little better to give the advise.

Ben has been home by himself every morning this week.  He has been sleeping until noon.  I've had to call him everyday to wake him up.  Ben has gotten a little agitated with me for waking him but I felt he needed to be some what productive.  He has done a few household chores for me everyday then he spends the rest of the day playing the X-box or playing on the computer.  I guess I'm just a little jealous because I no longer get an entire summer for vacation.  Welcome to adulthood!  

Back to work

Monday, July 5, 2010 6:11 PM

Today is the last day of my vacation.  I feel very relaxed and not stressed at all.  I know that is going to change fast.  Not just because I'm going back to work but because Aaron starts band practice tomorrow which continues for the rest of the summer.  His dad will be taking him to practice at 9:00 AM and I will pick Aaron up and take him home on my lunch. I will also be dragging Jacob out of bed early to go to his daily summer program.  Ben is the only one who will be able to sleep in.  He's the lucky one. I guess I shouldn't complain yet because I'll just get stressed out.  Remember...I'm relaxed.

I have cleaned most of the house while I've been home.  The laundry is washed and put away.  The grass has been cut with joint effort.  I have our cloths ready for tomorrow.  Let see...is there anything else I need to do to be ready for tomorrow.  Uhmmm...oh yes, I need to pack my lunch since I'll be picking Aaron up at  the high school.  I'm sure I'm forgetting something.  I need to cook dinner before the boys raid the snack cabinet.  I guess I'm ready...let's hope.

The Beach

Saturday, July 3, 2010 10:42 PM

We made it to the beach!  The boys and I had so much fun.  The weather was perfect with the sun shining and a nice breeze.  Unfortunately, the ocean was ice cold.  I only got my feet wet and no more.  Jacob didn't seem to mind the cold water.  He loved running into the ocean but only went in knee deep.  Aaron and Ben attempted to buggy board but that didn't last long due to the ice cold water.  My sister and her 3 kids came to the beach with us.  Aaron passed the football with his cousin while Ben buried Jacob in the sand.  Jacob looked so adorable because he was buried up to his neck in the sand.  The highlight of the afternoon was seeing dolphins swim near the shore.  We all enjoyed watching them them from the distance. 

After we left the beach, we walked on the boardwalk and ate pizza for dinner. Then, the boys and I had water ice as a treat but it wasn't that good.  I guess I picked the wrong place to buy it. I love walking on the boardwalk and going into the shops.  The boys aren't thrilled with the shops unless they find something they want to buy.  All in all it was a great day!  It didn't matter that the ocean was cold I just love being at the beach.  I think all of us would go to the beach anytime.

Beach

Monday, June 28, 2010 10:03 PM

We are having a great time on our vacation.  We're all exhausted from visiting family.  They have been feeding us very well. I think I've gained 10 pounds already. The boys and I went to my nephew's graduation party which of course had plenty of food and cake. All of the kids played volley ball and went swimming. It was a tiring day.  We haven't made it to the beach yet because  it been too hot. I know it's difficult to believe it's to hot to go to the beach but when it's 95 degrees the sand feels like it's 200 degrees.  Hopefully, this heat wave will break in a day or 2 so we can go to the beach and boardwalk.  My niece has an awesome pool at her house.  We had a small party at her house to try to escape the heat. It was wonderful so wonderful that I think I'd rather be at her house than at the beach. Well...maybe not, I really love the beach I just hate having sand everywhere. Jacob really wants to go to the beach.  That's all he has been talking about.  I hope he's not disappointed.

Decisions

Monday, June 21, 2010 4:38 PM

What do I do???

Friday, June 18, 2010 4:13 PM

Realization

Tuesday, June 15, 2010 5:09 PM

More $$$

Friday, June 11, 2010 4:51 PM

Upset

Tuesday, June 8, 2010 5:30 PM

Graduation

Friday, June 4, 2010 4:47 PM

Jacob was so cute yesterday. He graduated from kindergarten. All of the children were absolutely adorable. They wore blue caps with a gold tassel and sang a few songs to the parents. The teachers made a poster with all of the kids hand prints on it. They all received their diploma and a special bag the teacher with a booklet for them to practice over the summer. I took lots of pictures of Jacob. I can’t believe he’s finished with kindergarten and how fast the time has gone by. I barely managed to not cry at the graduation. After the ceremony, the school provided snacks for the children and their parents. The next graduation will be Aaron’s from high school in 3 more years. Wow…I’m really starting to feel old. My 40^th birthday is next week and I’m not happy about it. The thought of Aaron graduating certainly didn’t make me feel any better. I’ll just try to put that thought out of my mind for the weekend so I can enjoy it.  Wish me luck!

Great weekend!

Tuesday, June 1, 2010 5:43 PM

Fun fun

Thursday, May 27, 2010 4:38 PM

Whiny

Tuesday, May 25, 2010 5:21 PM

Punished again!

Friday, May 21, 2010 4:44 PM

Tired

Tuesday, May 18, 2010 5:03 PM

 

Band fees

Friday, May 14, 2010 3:38 PM

Non-traditional day

Tuesday, May 11, 2010 1:04 PM

Happy Mother's Day!

Friday, May 7, 2010 5:07 PM

Should I or shouldn't I

Tuesday, May 4, 2010 5:32 PM

Happy Birthday

Friday, April 30, 2010 4:03 PM

Jungle

Thursday, April 22, 2010 4:40 PM

Liar

Tuesday, April 20, 2010 5:40 PM

Matches

Friday, April 16, 2010 5:27 PM

Awkward

Tuesday, April 13, 2010 5:48 PM

Late night

Friday, April 9, 2010 4:40 PM

A wonderful Easter

Tuesday, April 6, 2010 5:04 PM

Happy Easter

Friday, April 2, 2010 1:24 PM

Happy Easter!!!

Fun Night

Tuesday, March 30, 2010 4:59 PM

No sleeping in for me.

Friday, March 26, 2010 4:55 PM

More money

Tuesday, March 23, 2010 5:07 PM

Spring is here.

Friday, March 19, 2010 5:05 PM

Stressed

Tuesday, March 16, 2010 5:23 PM

Juggling act

Friday, March 12, 2010 4:57 PM

Lost on the bus

Tuesday, March 9, 2010 5:15 PM

My sick baby

Saturday, March 6, 2010 1:06 PM

Busy day!

Tuesday, March 2, 2010 5:41 PM

More snow

Thursday, February 25, 2010 5:03 PM

We are planning on attending the WVU basketball game on Saturday. We can’t wait for the game. Hopefully, WVU will win…wait of course they’re going to win. It’s going to be exciting but WVU really needs a win. Aaron and Ben are thrilled about going to the game but Jacob is more excited about the snacks he gets at the game. Jacob will cheer for WVU but is still learning the rules of the game. I hope the snow we’re getting this weekend doesn’t interfere with our plans. I hope the storm will have passed by game day.

Track again

Tuesday, February 23, 2010 5:04 PM

Student drivers

Friday, February 19, 2010 4:12 PM

No more snow!!!

Tuesday, February 9, 2010 4:43 PM

Basketball game

Saturday, February 6, 2010 10:14 PM

I have been really busy planning for this huge snow storm. So I haven’t had the opportunity to discuss the WVU game. It was a great basketball game. The boys and I had a great time. It’s a shame that the students got out of control. I’m just glad that WVU won. I had a difficult time at first explaining to Jacob not to repeat all the bad words he would hear. Jacob asked me, "Why would a mountaineer fan use bad words?" I tried to explain to him that it was a way of expressing their anger. I think he understood what I was telling him. So when we got to the game he was trying to figure out the chanting. He came up with USA, USA, USA...so that’s what we went with for the entire night. It was so adorable and Jacob felt like he was part of the crowd. It all worked out for us and we had a fun night!

Let's Go Mountaineers!

Wednesday, February 3, 2010 4:57 PM

The boys and I are looking forward to the WVU game tonight.  I hope they beat Pitt!!!  This is going to be such an exciting game.  I hope Jacob can make it to the end of the game.  Let's Gooooo Mountaineers!!! 

Wrestling Tournament

Tuesday, February 2, 2010 5:13 PM

Buckhannon trip

Friday, January 29, 2010 3:58 PM

Which is harder to raise...boys or girls

Tuesday, January 26, 2010 10:38 AM

Check out this website.  It's a great article regarding the differences of raising boys vs. girls.

http://lifestyle.msn.com/your-life/family-parenting/articleparenting.aspx?cp-documentid=23256506

Overwhelmed

Monday, January 25, 2010 4:54 PM

Have you ever arrived at work in the morning and don’t remember your drive to work? I’ve done that a few times. I guess I’ve had a lot more on my mind recently. The other day, I was driving to work but I was supposed to take Jacob and Ben to school first and I passed the entrance to the school. I must have been daydreaming. Suddenly, I heard Ben say, “Mom, you just passed the school!” You can imagine what I said…so I had to turn around and went back to the school. I couldn’t believe I passed the school. What an idiot I thought to myself. Actually, I almost passed the school the day before but realized the boys were in the car. The boys had been very quite that day but apparently I was paying more attention to my surroundings.  I remembered they were with me in the car and I took them to school. Maybe I need more sleep or maybe I’m just overwhelmed with all the responsibilities I have. Either way, I need to pay more attention to what I’m doing.

Globetrotters

Friday, January 22, 2010 4:51 PM

Busy weekend

Tuesday, January 19, 2010 5:45 PM

Wake Up Call!

Friday, January 15, 2010 4:55 PM

Toooo Tired!

Tuesday, January 12, 2010 5:06 PM

No more snow!

Friday, January 8, 2010 5:09 PM

Happy New Year!

Wednesday, December 30, 2009 3:29 PM

Movies

Tuesday, December 29, 2009 12:31 PM

Different holiday!

Tuesday, December 22, 2009 5:23 PM

X-Mas cookies

Friday, December 18, 2009 11:48 AM

 

Getting ready for the hoilday!

Friday, December 11, 2009 5:06 PM

This weekend is going to be extremely busy. I have the boys so it will be more of a challenge to get my list completed. I need to go grocery shopping because Ben and Jacob wiped me out of canned goods for the food drive at school. I want to take Jacob to see Santa Clause at the mall on Saturday. But first, Jacob has a basketball game that morning.   We still need to decorate the house and put up our Christmas tree. I would like to take the boys to see a movie Saturday afternoon also. Do you think I’ll be able to get it all done??? Oh I almost forgot Aaron has a birthday party to go to Saturday night. I hope we can get it all done because we want to bake cookies on Sunday. I told Jacob he could help me. Ben said he just wants to sample the cookie and not help us bake them. Actually, that’s not a bad plan. I should let the boys bake all of the cookies. Oh my! Could you imagine what a disaster my kitchen would be and how burnt the cookies would turn out??? I guess I need to be the head chef and let them assist.

Disappointment

Wednesday, December 9, 2009 5:36 PM

Aaron is almost finished with band for the year. I think he has 1 more performance which a holiday program.  I know he is disappointed to see band end. Aaron was hoping to join a percussion group at the HS school but at the last minute the plug was pulled on the group. I felt so bad for Aaron because he decided not to go out for basketball so he would be able to join the percussion group. I tried to talk Aaron into basketball with no luck. I have been trying to let Aaron make more decisions for himself since he is in HS. I guess it’s all a learning

Tuscan Tuesday

Wednesday, December 2, 2009 5:01 PM

The longest trip

Monday, November 30, 2009 5:30 PM

Babysitting

Tuesday, November 24, 2009 5:06 PM

Girl friend

Monday, November 23, 2009 4:51 PM

3 Different boys

Friday, November 20, 2009 4:44 PM

Problem child

Monday, November 16, 2009 4:44 PM

Jacob's first basketball game

Wednesday, November 11, 2009 4:43 PM

Flu...vaccinate or not

Thursday, November 5, 2009 4:51 PM

Happy Halloween

Wednesday, November 4, 2009 3:03 PM

                                                                               Jacob really loves Star Wars....just like his bothers.

The Flu

Wednesday, October 28, 2009 4:37 PM

Grades

Friday, October 23, 2009 4:29 PM

Smiley faces

Friday, October 16, 2009 4:24 PM

Bribery

Wednesday, October 14, 2009 4:34 PM

Chasing the bus

Wednesday, October 7, 2009 8:58 AM

Big Proposal!

Monday, September 28, 2009 3:50 PM

Tuscan Sun Spa & Salon

Friday, September 25, 2009 11:50 AM

Back to the doctors!

Wednesday, September 23, 2009 2:00 PM

Keeping busy

Friday, September 18, 2009 2:39 PM

Sick again!

Thursday, September 17, 2009 8:23 AM

Feeling terrible

Friday, September 11, 2009 4:40 PM

Long weekend!

Thursday, September 10, 2009 8:09 AM

Long awaited weekend!

Saturday, September 5, 2009 3:30 PM

1st day of school

Thursday, September 3, 2009 8:17 AM

Crazy morning

Saturday, August 29, 2009 12:47 PM

Late for school

Thursday, August 27, 2009 4:49 PM

Blackwater Falls

Friday, August 21, 2009 5:21 PM

Weekend get-a-way

Thursday, August 20, 2009 5:02 PM

Horrible vacation

Friday, August 14, 2009 10:23 AM

Water-park

Friday, August 14, 2009 10:16 AM

Crazy summer

Friday, August 7, 2009 5:03 PM

Picky eater

Wednesday, August 5, 2009 6:20 PM

Pulling pants down

Friday, July 31, 2009 5:53 PM

Sleep Over

Tuesday, July 28, 2009 5:48 PM

Missing teeth

Friday, July 24, 2009 4:25 PM

                                                                                                                                        

No dinner!

Friday, July 17, 2009 3:42 PM

Run, run, run

Thursday, July 16, 2009 3:47 PM

Great movies!

Tuesday, July 14, 2009 5:07 PM

Poor fish

Friday, July 10, 2009 5:04 PM

Our goldfish

Tuesday, July 7, 2009 5:09 PM

Last September Ben won a goldfish at the local fair. He had to play some game to win the fish. After a few tries he won. Ben named the fish “Waffle” but I’ not sure where he got that name from. Well, guess what…the fish is still alive! We have had several goldfish in the past but they have all died within the first week or so. I’m not sure why or how this fish is still living. I have been the person taking care of the fish all along but that usually doesn’t matter. When we went on vacation, we gave the fish to the boys’ dad to take care of while we were gone. Even he hasn’t killed Waffle yet. That’s one tough fish! I better bring Waffle home soon or he will die for sure. All of the boys like Waffle but none of them can remember to feed him (or her) that’s why I do. I wonder what that average life span is for a gold fish. I’ll have to google it and find out. As it turns out the average life span for a goldfish is 30 years! I don’t think our fish a chance at living that long giving our history with goldfish. Hopefully, Waffle will survive a while longer

The beach

Thursday, July 2, 2009 4:41 PM

Long car ride

Tuesday, June 30, 2009 2:13 PM

slip-n-slide

Friday, June 19, 2009 5:01 PM

Poison ivy...still!

Tuesday, June 16, 2009 5:27 PM

Personal website

Friday, June 12, 2009 4:57 PM

Back to the doctors again!

Tuesday, June 9, 2009 5:05 PM

Rain, Rain...go away!

Friday, June 5, 2009 5:07 PM

So much for planning

Tuesday, June 2, 2009 5:32 PM

                                                                                                                                        

Shots

Tuesday, May 26, 2009 6:10 PM

                                                                                                                                     

Dodgeball

Thursday, May 21, 2009 4:16 PM

                                                                                                                                                                                                         

Still sick

Wednesday, May 20, 2009 11:57 AM

                                                                                   

Jacob's 5th Birthday

Friday, May 15, 2009 4:10 PM

Does that shirt fit?

Friday, May 8, 2009 2:25 PM

Baltimore

Tuesday, May 5, 2009 5:03 PM

Track

Wednesday, April 29, 2009 5:36 PM

                                        

Referee

Monday, April 27, 2009 4:55 PM

Going to school

Friday, April 24, 2009 12:15 PM

Work vs. Play

Tuesday, April 21, 2009 12:16 PM

More Shopping

Friday, April 17, 2009 5:00 PM

Shop till you drop

Tuesday, April 14, 2009 5:06 PM

Thoughtfullness at Easter

Friday, April 10, 2009 3:01 PM

Every once in a while I am surprised with the generosity of my children. As a mother, I try to teach them to share, be polite and generous. At home there is fighting and an unwillingness to give in to the other brother. Since I am a working mother and not always available for the boys, I worry that my children will be easily influenced by rebellious friends. It is nice to be complemented on the behavior and actions of my children by other parents and teachers. I feel that adults as well as children need reassurance in life. 

                                                                                                                                                                             

No more homework

Tuesday, April 7, 2009 2:48 PM

Dentist

Friday, April 3, 2009 12:28 PM

Missing Mommy

Monday, March 30, 2009 11:37 AM

It must be very difficult for kids at times to be away from their moms. I know when I first started back to work after I had Jacob he was not quite 2 years old. He adjusted very well to his sitter. I worked part time initially but a full time position became available and I took the opportunity. Then I had to place Jacob in daycare, which he loves. He has made many little friends. Now, he is in preschool at the same facility. Preschool is more structured then daycare. He is learning a great deal at the center.  

Watermelon

Friday, March 27, 2009 2:35 PM

Watermelon

 

Just Let Me Sleep

Friday, March 20, 2009 11:13 AM

How Is This Going To Work?

Sunday, March 15, 2009 11:12 AM

Tools

Tuesday, March 10, 2009 11:10 AM

Time For The Doctor

Thursday, March 5, 2009 11:09 AM

Welcome

Sunday, March 1, 2009 11:04 AM