tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-257993132011-11-06T20:31:32.007-08:00Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.comBlogger6001100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-83158221747033953502011-06-18T14:53:00.000-07:002011-06-19T08:33:13.420-07:00

For the moment, I am renaming my children. Little Lady = in between. She teeters in being absolutely adorable and a mischievous little devil! One second she is planting sweet little kisses on our cheeks and says 'I wuv oo' -- and the next minute you have been pummeled by a flying fork or other dangerous object. Squeaker = Gaining. He is becoming quite the karate master. It truly has been a great

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-21819500034073922892011-04-26T15:10:00.000-07:002011-04-26T15:10:51.809-07:00

Happy Belated Easter.  I am really slacking on my blog posting.  I do have a few good reasons, though... does that count???  It might help if I listed those reasons: Color, Construct, Create Studios is up and running.  We will have our first class mid-June and are SUPER excited! :)  The final weeks are here and all the last minute prep work is underway.   My 21-month old decided to potty train

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-21988096049278218922011-04-11T20:56:00.000-07:002011-04-11T20:56:47.369-07:00

Here is our house after paint and before landscaping updates. Here it is now:

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-9810757278125543002011-03-21T21:15:00.000-07:002011-03-21T21:15:04.820-07:00

So, Karate. Squeaker has been taking karate lessons since the beginning of the year. Some of our reasons for putting him in karate were to develop: strength (to sit in a chair for longer than 30 seconds) balance (to not fall out of said chair each time he sits down) discipline (to follow through with a task) attention (to follow directions) individuality (to do something that his brother is

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-22325378127625631952011-03-15T12:31:00.000-07:002011-03-15T12:31:18.552-07:00

I can't believe it is the middle of March. And ohmygosh, we have to start on our taxes! I think last year we already had our refund/payment whatever it was (I am blocking it from my mind)... by now. Yikes. So, March. March is a long month. No holidays, no 3-day weekends. It is full of work and school and general life activities. And, to add to that, we have have been 'constructing' at

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-72437631519048338132011-02-23T13:29:00.000-08:002011-02-23T13:29:23.371-08:00

Backstory: Squeaker and I were doing some "Preschool" work. I had him write letters, tell me the sound, and then we thought of words that started with that letter. So, we came to "f". He starts making the "ffff.." sound, then pops out with "Fee". I said, there is no such thing as a "fee" as I didn't think he knew what "fee" actually meant and was just making sounds. I was right. BUT, the

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-81646162480594309582011-02-22T13:53:00.000-08:002011-02-22T13:53:04.505-08:00

We have had quite a month so far and although it is a short month, we still have one whole week left! The whole dang family has been sick for like 3 weeks. Seems like Little Lady has been sick for like 5 weeks and Little Man may have gone through it twice. Anyhow, we are at the tail end... I hope... and are recovering. I am going to get a new can of lysol and a few rags, and wipe everything

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-23370809446267654782011-02-03T13:50:00.000-08:002011-02-03T13:51:05.384-08:00

My girly-girl daughter loves: necklacespursesdollsbabiesbowsdressestightsshoeschapsticklotionand her latest addition... earrings!

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-89330080046512082462011-02-02T20:59:00.000-08:002011-02-02T20:59:41.227-08:00

February always sneaks up on me. I don't know if it is that I am finally relaxing after the holidays that I just don't pay attention... or what?! Anyway, apparently it is February. I am glad it is, too... lots going on! My BEFRI's* birthday is in Feb and I think I might get to a quick visit with her (and her hubby) this month (see #3 below) T-ball starts! Little Man is a little anxious

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-89906023159752339422011-01-24T21:22:00.000-08:002011-01-24T21:22:56.178-08:00

We are tired and cranky over here... probably due to a plethora (I love that word) of snot, related coughing, and general malaise. This weather, this gorgeous weather, is actually not helping. It is kicking up all kinds of dust, pollens, and the warmth is making some flowers think it is spring. I am not complaining, just stating the facts, ma'am. Anyhow, the bedtime resolution I made a few

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-29049661208726066212011-01-23T18:13:00.000-08:002011-01-23T18:13:49.220-08:00

I am going to be an AUNT! I am so excited and oh, my kids will have a cousin! :) Check out my brother and sister-in-law's website.

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-84582053444508548542011-01-22T10:09:00.000-08:002011-01-22T10:09:33.838-08:00

I (We) are trying to come up with a clever name for our business venture... only we don't have 9 months.  We have found it to be quite difficult.  We don't want to change it later on when we decide we didn't really like this name or that name.  We had one decided on for a while, but I thought it wasn't really something I would want to say over and over again as a mom taking my kid somewhere (if

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-82254935255002236022011-01-19T08:33:00.000-08:002011-01-19T08:33:00.435-08:00

My Little Man was superkid last week at school. Along with all the "special jobs" the superkid does, he also gets to hear a lot of wonderful things about himself from the kids in his class. We brought home a life-size poster on Friday and after reading it we are sure of 2 things: 1. We are not worried (we never were) about his academics. He is doing well. Other kids have noticed. 2. We are

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-85317149276601020532011-01-18T20:40:00.000-08:002011-01-18T20:40:54.742-08:00

Squeaker got new glasses... Check them out! Now, we can't decide if he looks more like Peter Parker, The guy from Wheezer (Rivers Cuomo)/combined with Buddy Holly (Wheezer song reference), or Justin Timberlake... maybe you can decide? I am sure there is another celebrity look-a-like that would be better, but no time to keep pondering. We love the glasses, though.

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-11894711520150327552011-01-18T20:07:00.000-08:002011-01-18T20:11:17.332-08:00

New Roof... CHECK! New Paint... CHECK! New landscaping... Well, almost done. The weeds do add a little something, though, no?

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-17931131857930132062011-01-08T08:30:00.000-08:002011-01-08T08:30:01.296-08:00

Update on Resolutions:1. Done, as evidenced by original post. I love checking things off. 2. I am averaging 10:30 pm for bedtime, which is a step in the right direction, but having trouble waking up at 6. Will keep trying. I have over 300 days to work this one out. 3. I started on book, given to me by my mother in law last Christmas, but have trouble finding time these days to read. Having

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-8606453915338995422011-01-07T17:14:00.000-08:002011-01-07T17:22:04.623-08:00

Recent conversation with Squeaker: Me: Squeaker, no hitting, time out. Squeaker: NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! (at the top of his lungs)Me: silentSqueaker: Runs away screaming NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMe: silently points to time out spot Squeaker: goes to sit and glares at me. Shouts NOOOOO, Momma! No! Me: walks awaySqueaker: wiggles away from his time out spot to play with toysMe: calmly puts him

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-83750699510393634192011-01-07T16:38:00.000-08:002011-01-07T16:47:19.729-08:00

I am not one to make solid or achievable new year's resolutions, but I am turning over a new leaf. Hey, my first resolution: 1. Make an obtainable New Year's ResolutionHere are my others: 2. Get more sleep! (I believe this will fix many other "would be" resolutions, like "be more patient with kids") Stick to a 10pm bedtime and get up at 6am every morning to get a jump start on my kids. 3.

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-22102243737475629792010-12-24T20:51:00.000-08:002010-12-24T20:58:54.357-08:00

Because I seem to be completely overwhelmed at the moment and can't seem to post with any sort of consistency, check out my dear friend's blog... someone who has their act together just a little more than I do! :)Merry Christmas!

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-59815876092742752712010-12-09T14:29:00.000-08:002010-12-09T14:31:19.230-08:00

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-1648146064695181482010-11-24T16:55:00.000-08:002010-11-24T17:04:39.940-08:00

You wouldn't know it from all the yelling that's been going on at our house, but I am so truly thankful for my kids... And this moment:

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-8680122744646503572010-11-17T09:56:00.000-08:002010-11-17T10:08:35.462-08:00

It is nice that Squeaker and Little Lady are now playing together nicely, but they are also getting into trouble together nicely.... This is what I found this morning right before school on the floor of the garage -- Bad picture, sorry, but it is of the two trouble makers eating through a sleeve of oreos and a couple of halloween nestle crunches. Squeaker says, "Mom, don't come over here to

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-78377733335772750492010-11-16T14:36:00.000-08:002010-11-16T14:42:45.207-08:00

The following conversation was overheard while Squeaker and Little Man were getting in the car the other day.LM: Last one buckled is a boiled egg.Me: (thinking to myself - boiled=rotten egg? 6 year old mistake?)S: I am not going to be a boiled egg. K: Yes, you for sure will because I am almost buckled!S: No WAY - I am super speed fast!K: DONE! I'm the rotten egg, I was FIRST!Me: (huh?)S: I'm the

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-8769367632046680442010-11-09T08:41:00.000-08:002010-11-09T08:42:18.218-08:00

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-20646433566302417302010-10-16T11:52:00.001-07:002010-10-16T11:52:38.177-07:00

Click here to view this photo book larger

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-76572854181787011592010-10-12T12:23:00.000-07:002010-10-12T12:43:57.002-07:00

This must be about the age Little Man was when I wrote those posts on his "musings". The three-year-old brain is hilarious!!!! Not only this, but Squeaker has the facial expressions to go with his crazy statements. He cracks me up! Here are a couple of recent musings a la Squeaker: S: Dad, does everyone have green boogies?Dad: Um, not really sure, Man. I guess some people might. S: Oh, cuz I

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-87727204965492805802010-10-03T16:35:00.000-07:002010-10-03T16:37:13.019-07:00

Goodbye living room, hello Fort! Happy Sunday!

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-87254796735785975862010-09-29T20:09:00.000-07:002010-09-29T20:25:40.470-07:00

Alternate title: Eating our way through Julian, CAWhat a busy morning we had... No school for the kids meant apple picking for us. We tried to get there right when it opened since it has been warm the past few days. We headed up to pick up GaMommy and Uncle Joey then trekked out to Julian for some fall fun. First stop, apple picking. Tiny apple trees produce teeny apples. I have already

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-21516325143748090412010-09-27T15:44:00.000-07:002010-09-27T20:23:45.330-07:00

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-64987638161050351522010-09-16T10:00:00.000-07:002010-09-16T10:02:57.759-07:00

Little Lady LOVE LOVE LOVES dropping Squeaker off at Preschool. She thinks that she belongs there and just joins in all the fun. It is a cry-fest every time we have to leave. So SAD! :(

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-54946086699405024602010-09-11T20:53:00.001-07:002010-09-11T21:49:49.085-07:00

Here are a few pics from Little Man's first soccer game. It was amazingly good and these kids are just ADORABLE! I remember 'bumblebee' soccer, but they play 4x4, so it wasn't too bad. Some of the kiddos seemed to be a little more comfortable with the ball - and LM was not so sure whether he should go after it (probably for fear of missing) or run to get open or what exactly he should do.

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-29294868037616078982010-09-10T10:46:00.000-07:002010-09-10T10:46:00.284-07:00

There is something about moving into a new house (which is not in anyway NEW) that makes you just want to make it your own. We were very distracted after moving into our current home. We have been slowly trying to figure out how to arrange our existing 'stuff' into this new configuration. It is trial and error and a very fluid system. As a matter of fact, we just rearranged the family room

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-79987363036740426382010-09-09T09:35:00.000-07:002010-09-09T09:35:00.704-07:00

Approximately 15 years ago, I worked at the Del Mar Racetrack in one of their "fancy" restaurants. It was a perfect end-of-the-summer job. I got to brush up on my Espanol, climb several flights of stairs multiple times a day, and sometimes go to the beach before/after work. Since my last day of work all those years ago, I haven't been back. Until this last weekend! A friend of mine gave us a

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-56942712801007536892010-09-08T12:00:00.000-07:002010-09-08T12:00:00.582-07:00

Little Man is playing soccer this fall. We are all very excited and he loves it. Granted, he is more like a bounding St. Bernard than a finesse player, but it is all about fun at this age! They play 4x4 on a small field with no goalie. It is great. It will be a great year. We have been practicing for a month and games start this Saturday. We, siblings and parents, are practicing our

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-11947611559028501682010-09-07T21:17:00.000-07:002010-09-07T21:26:11.024-07:00

Okay, so I am only 2 weeks behind... we've been busy! Here are the boys on their first day of school

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-33470548428270877452010-08-27T14:13:00.000-07:002010-08-27T14:15:46.444-07:00

It took us a week to come up with an appropriate name... Dino it is.

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-25379514255304600682010-08-23T22:24:00.000-07:002010-08-23T22:58:27.916-07:00

We have been busy cramming as much as possible into the summer. One day left and we are going to spend it with friends and then... the FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL... WOO HOO!Fought some bad guys:Played some soccer:We roasted some marshmallows:We caught some sun:Practiced 'fancy' tricks on our bikes:Hung out with family: Went to the zoo: Looked cute: Climbed some trees... or at least superman did:

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-22339320092297246782010-08-02T20:51:00.000-07:002010-08-02T21:18:00.032-07:00

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-11339248390308370962010-07-29T23:39:00.001-07:002010-07-29T23:39:28.954-07:00

Little Man lost his first tooth this morning. We are all so proud and excited. I'm just not sure how he is able to chew his food with teeth this small! I am surprised they haven't all fallen out by now- look at the size if this thing (Sorry- took picture with my phone):

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-23291320479325293842010-07-24T07:29:00.000-07:002010-07-24T07:59:17.687-07:00

We are headed home today. The kids and I have been on vacation from July 4th until today. Here is a recap: Camping near Santa BarbaraIt was not exactly the sunny beach camping trip we had in mind, but it was a great trip. We packed up the minivan with camping gear and some excited children. My mom and I had 5 wonderful days of campfires, chilly days/nights, and filthy dirty dirtball children.

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-63873532100360529842010-07-07T06:51:00.000-07:002010-07-07T06:53:14.204-07:00

One benefit to early mornings is a deserted beach.Not exactly the warmest week we've had camping - but we are still having a great time!

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-23459962035568476442010-07-02T06:33:00.000-07:002010-07-02T06:33:00.466-07:00

So, routine "quick" trip to the grocery store - with all three kids-- and half way through the store I was getting suspicious about all the chocolate cake I kept stepping on. So, finally I peeked into the car cart, where both boys (who were surprisingly good) sat, and found one boy covered with chocolate cake. Hands and face, completely covered. Since I had not given them anything to eat, and

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-70731722103763173152010-07-01T15:14:00.000-07:002010-07-01T15:32:08.136-07:00

Little Lady loves to use her signs. She loves it so much, I worry that she is jumping the gun a bit if she can't get something right away. Here are a few she uses frequently: HelpDaddyMore (recently she has been more precise... used to clap)Other signs with no photographic evidence: eat, milk, cracker (intermittent), hat, dog, bird, monkey, 'night-night', water.

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-18423741119731804472010-06-25T23:30:00.001-07:002010-06-25T23:32:03.638-07:00

Happy Birthday Little Lady! You are such a ham, a wonderful baby, and a pure delight!

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-4725438014558292722010-06-23T14:38:00.000-07:002010-06-23T15:05:04.578-07:00

No day 1 post... sorry -- it didn't get done yesterday. Sometimes I am productive... though mostly I feel like I am just treading water. Yesterday and today were a couple of those "Productive" days.1 Push wagon repaired - new bottom required after I smashed the original (It was sabotage, by the way) - required a trip to Home Depot with all three children to get appropriate piece of fiberboard

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-7371227933054830552010-06-15T21:12:00.000-07:002010-06-15T21:23:36.301-07:00

This afternoon I felt brave and decided to take the kiddos to the county fair. I have great memories there, from years past, mostly from selling ride tickets... but, I did spend a lot of time there. I wanted to share this with the kids. My sister met us there (yeah) and we trekked around Kiddieland and some exhibits. We saw animals, food, and TONS of people. It was perfect weather and I really

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-13877691762561774452010-06-15T09:00:00.000-07:002010-06-15T09:00:01.297-07:00

Okay, so it has been a couple weeks and then just a random complain-y post, so here is some fun stuff:Weekday working is done for me (I still work on Saturdays) -- can I get a HALLELUJAH!!!Summer vacation is hereLittle Man is reading, riding his bike, coming up with the most creative stories that we should really write them out and publish them. (summer project?)Squeaker has not broken his

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-86660948671854483952010-06-14T06:44:00.000-07:002010-06-14T06:49:03.467-07:00

Squeaker suggested we eat breakfast on the balcony-- so I am making raspberry-cream cheese filled french toast... Yummmmm

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-62551147389842139242010-06-13T19:55:00.000-07:002010-06-13T21:32:58.611-07:00

My brand not-so-new title. I blame my kids and work almost entirely. It is perhaps 3%, well, i can go as far as 12% my fault - lack of exercise, staying up too late (partial blame to the kids), not eating well.Evidence: - no blog updates for days/weeks- not recording (in any way shape or form) Little Lady's milestones- yelling WAY too much at my wild and crazy children (yes, all three are wild

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-4538964101023624942010-05-28T12:32:00.001-07:002010-05-28T12:32:30.929-07:00

I love this stage... But someone else needs to clean it up.

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-29638102421607520792010-05-24T13:58:00.000-07:002010-05-24T13:59:24.945-07:00

I love these rare occurrences of all three kids playing together nicely. It is totally spontaneous and they get in a groove. Unfortunately it never lasts as long as I want, but soon I will tell them all how wonderful they are and that they must be such good brothers and sister to be playing so nicely... Then send the boys outside to get their wiggles out before dinner!

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-87815924179263199512010-05-16T08:52:00.001-07:002010-05-16T08:52:24.566-07:00

Who knew they'd sit still for so long???

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-47942740104137872702010-05-12T16:46:00.000-07:002010-05-12T16:47:00.838-07:00

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-1958433245373878132010-05-12T12:38:00.000-07:002010-05-12T12:44:09.726-07:00

Do you know what is fun? Taking a bit of lettuce and realizing after you have thoroughly chewed it that it is definitely NOT lettuce... perhaps mustard greens? Now, what to do with a head of mustard greens...So, a friend of ours gets fresh produce from a local organic csa farm. It is generally more than they can eat so occasionally they will bring over a couple of things that they won't or

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-53741377298075558702010-05-11T20:46:00.000-07:002010-05-11T20:48:03.387-07:00

less than one month left of work! :) WOO HOO

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-3414162890627711202010-05-10T11:48:00.000-07:002010-05-10T11:50:34.202-07:00

Trouble with stitches:- 3 years old- at the bendy part of the leg... the knee- increased tolerance for pain- 7 stitches need to be kept immobileLucky I had some splinting material lying around.

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-2994166670876855052010-05-09T22:50:00.000-07:002010-05-09T23:05:04.054-07:00

Little Man:loves school, mischief, and his siblingshas become quite the little bundle of emotion and isn't exactly sure what to do with it. can't wait for puberty. :)parents having quite a time finding the balance between encouraging imagination/playfulness/exuberance and reinforcing social rules/appropriate behaviorSqueaker: Me to my mom: I am so glad that Squeaker is such an easy kid to get

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-61150328861541433152010-04-27T06:51:00.000-07:002010-04-27T06:50:34.736-07:00

I forgot how fun baby signs are! Little Lady loves trying to figure out the sign for the things she wants. It is really hard to make sure we catch he before she gets frustrated... And boy oh boy can she throw a (cute, funny, and adorable) tantrum out of frustration. *it is really hard not to laugh*Communication is fun!

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-77544072812432620422010-04-20T21:57:00.000-07:002010-04-20T21:59:21.499-07:00

We need to weight down Little Lady's shoes or diaper. She has decided to become motivated to walk (of course, right?). And, took 2 tiny steps today. I know it will be a few weeks before she musters up the courage to do it again, but man, she has got it! Let the fun BEGIN!

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-48484390414856629552010-04-17T15:04:00.001-07:002010-04-17T15:09:23.602-07:00

We were watching Sesame Street this morning. Jason Mraz was on there singing a verson of "I'm yours". (aside: I love that Sesame Street keeps up with current artists and celebraties.) Little Man recognized the song and says, "HEY, this song is in Mommy's car! That's funny, that song came from Sesame Street!!!"It is all about perspective. Of course, 90% of the time, my car radio is playing

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-55416974509222607112010-04-15T18:25:00.000-07:002010-04-15T18:24:50.851-07:00

Magenta=PolentaThat took quite a bit of our dinner conversation:I don't liiiiike maGENtA!Magenta is yellowish.Mmmm, magenta is yummy.Ooo, Little Lady likes the polenta.It is not POLenta, it is MAGenta. By the way, there is no headway being made on the "magenta"... Except by those that say it correctly.::Um, it is expensive to fly. We opted for the 5 ticket route- adding to the expense- but

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-69384783283900079142010-04-11T09:46:00.000-07:002010-04-11T09:51:40.079-07:00

Squeaker: Would you like a delicious combo?Me: sure, thanksSqueaker: Would you like a delicious combo?Daddy: What is a delicious combo?Squeaker: it is something on the right and something on the left. It is something you drink. Little Man: Ouch! I just banged by head on the table.Squeaker: Here, the delicious combo will help your boo boo. swish swishDaddy: So, a delicious combo is something to

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-78518860288029616832010-04-07T20:56:00.000-07:002010-04-07T21:16:46.022-07:00

Without going into boring details, there has been a few days recently that I am glad are over and done. :) From this point on we have:- 3 of 4 sick -- an improvement- 3 more days on my own (without Daddy... how do those military families do it?)- 2 fun adventures planned for the final days of spring break- guaranteed lack of motivation to complete work-related tasks- combination of sadness and

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-27675812198068147812010-04-01T21:24:00.001-07:002010-04-01T21:38:28.906-07:00

I know I won't get any sympathy from my mom or Daddy's parents, but, MAN, these kids are exhausting. They truly need C O N S T A N T supervision. And, I swear they are in cahoots, because I go stop fighting in one room and come back to this:Then, I come back and separate the boys (again) and I come back to this:It sure is nice when everyone works together like that, but I can't get anything

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-84803896239883278772010-03-29T21:59:00.000-07:002010-03-29T22:10:33.150-07:00

Guess what this is? I will give you two guesses. When I asked what it was, I got a very, "not true" answer. Very quick on his feet that Little Man is. :)Hint: Not a "water squirter" or a "scanning thingy"

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-76497405681363507862010-03-26T14:09:00.000-07:002010-03-26T14:11:47.907-07:00

Translation:R2D2Anakin (I don't think I'm right either, but at least closer!)Obi-Wan (V=U; sideways 7s=N)Luke (G=C)Whatever motivates them... Right?!

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-6131195910049134892010-03-22T10:53:00.000-07:002010-03-22T10:57:03.063-07:00

So, if she's this cute right now, imagine how cute I'd think she was with more than 3 hours of sleep!

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-52823457134503994642010-03-15T15:03:00.000-07:002010-03-15T15:07:36.732-07:00

I am all for getting rid of Daylight Savings time. It is a PAIN for those of us with kids. I mean, we worked so hard to get them to sleep in later in the morning and we have been doing well for the past month or so. Now THIS! Today, I had to go in and WAKE my boys for school. That is CRAZINESS! Coffee helped me, but poor kids, they are already ready for bedtime at it is only 3pm. I hope

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-30447210857026199142010-03-15T14:54:00.000-07:002010-03-15T15:03:10.657-07:00

Sunday was BEAUTIFUL! The first weekend in several weeks when it wasn't cold and rainy. As a fun adventure, we went to the Flower Fields. I had never been and wanted to go last year. For one reason or another, I never made it, but this year...The boys had a great time. Little Lady slept the whole time. It was warm and I actually got a little sun on my arms. I hope the rest of our weekends

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-17735953939724628242010-03-08T10:39:00.000-08:002010-03-08T10:54:48.219-08:00

This morning a friend came over for a few minutes to return some maternity things. I am not sure if we will use them again, or not, but at least we have more boxes to store now. :) Anyway, as we are sitting there chatting, Little Lady got pretty fussy. It was uncharacteristic. She is not sick, she was tired, but she was yelling. Now, she is 8 months old, and a delight of a baby girl. Her

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-80939178989565634002010-03-06T21:04:00.000-08:002010-03-06T21:10:32.217-08:00

Conversation at bedtimeMe: Good night.Squeaker: Good night. Can I have a drink of water?Me: Why do you always ask for a drink of water?Squeaker: Because I do.Me: If you give me a good reason, I will get you a drink. (Thinking he'd say "Because I am thirsty")Squeaker: (beaming) Okay, um, hmmm.. because I always ask for water.Me: Not a good reason. Try again.Squeaker: Hummm, because I kick off my

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-57554826385372871442010-03-05T15:54:00.000-08:002010-03-05T16:06:38.423-08:00

We have precious little free time at our house these days. I suppose that working more means more money, but at this point, with 3 little ones, it really means making more chaos. :)Hopefully, we'll be able to manage the next 3 months! It really would help if Little Lady was sleeping through the night and if the other two didn't require their own law enforcement officer 24/7. This morning, when

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-20856077112776676592010-02-26T20:42:00.001-08:002010-02-26T20:51:15.027-08:00

Let's start with the "not" standing. I can't stand:working more than my anticipated schedule. (I am scheduled to work 3 days/week. This week, I am working 5. That is too much. Mostly because I just can't keep up with the household things. Essentials, like dinner, are done. Laundry, apparently not so essential... yet! being unable to sleep at night - sometimes due to a cute little thing,

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-69479551042225536132010-02-20T18:44:00.000-08:002010-02-20T18:54:09.079-08:00

I am not sure what it is, but I feel like things haven't been "normal" for quite some time. We have been in a state of transition for a long time now, and finally, I think we are done. Little Lady is getting old enough to haul around for long periods of time with minimal effort. Squeaker is less emotionally labile, which makes doing anything easier. Little Man is getting more and more

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-59057695865826664832010-02-17T21:13:00.000-08:002010-02-17T21:15:12.400-08:00

Check out this post for a recap of our weekend. :)

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-54132135993819778822010-02-15T07:27:00.000-08:002010-02-15T07:30:24.439-08:00

It's cartoons in bed with visitors from out of town. What could be better?

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-8295625113822146882010-02-14T13:35:00.000-08:002010-02-14T13:38:01.911-08:00

Minus a lens and completely snapped off! I guess he can't wear glasses in the car any more. Ugh

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-62825777799184221852010-01-27T21:44:00.001-08:002010-01-27T21:45:14.267-08:00

So, when they say that you get "1 year unconditional frame replacement", what exactly does that mean??? Like, we can get a new frame every week? When do they cut you off?

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-75514159707903847002010-01-26T19:00:00.000-08:002010-01-26T19:09:08.261-08:00

Check out this handsome devil:Apparently he was having a hard time. He was not quite seeing in 3D as most of us do. Hence all the bumps and bruises and the black tooth. :) These glasses are supposed to help. We'll see, right. But in the meantime, he is just so cute!!!!! It is a good thing, too, because look what happened today:He just can't help himself. He has a very strong urge to

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-57346198355227376832010-01-22T10:44:00.000-08:002010-01-22T11:09:05.834-08:00

So, in an effort to provide my children (especially Squeaker) with some multisensory input, I created this playroom of sorts in our garage. It is an ongoing project... I still need to get some carpet padding or extra rugs to soften any falls... I would love to add in another lycra swing, or at least make the swings interchangeable. Oh, and I need some sort of container for a ball pit. Fun

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-84602632868039168612010-01-21T19:57:00.000-08:002010-01-21T19:56:53.367-08:00

Does folding clothes by candlelight make it any more glamorous? Perhaps. How about by a crackling fire? Definitely! And, since this is just about the only thing to do at night with no power, that is what we have going on at our house. I just hope the power comes back on soon so snotty, wheezy kids can get humidified. Just wait until I get in bed so I don't have to be any more productive than

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-41631661864269696442010-01-20T19:39:00.000-08:002010-01-20T19:47:21.859-08:00

Sick days are not fun, especially if you, yourself are sick. Of the five of us, 4 are sick. Snotty, coughing, congested, coughing, runny nose, did I mention coughing? Luckily we own a TV, are stocked with tissues, and there is a redbox about 5 minutes away. Aaaaand, it is like the only rainy week we'll have this year, of course... it is cold and windy too. So, no going outside. I was a bit

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-14654564448015804002010-01-18T09:01:00.000-08:002010-01-18T09:33:53.903-08:00

Friday night - dinner out at favorite restaurant where uncle works. Little Lady was sooooo tired and finally fell asleep as our food arrived. Then, the waitstaff broke out into some traditional "wake the baby" song... something about eating food in Italy. Anyhow, it worked. But here is a shot just before the song and the dirty looks delivered in the singers' direction. Work for me on

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-89639463274169777482010-01-15T19:40:00.001-08:002010-01-15T19:43:31.777-08:00

I have been dreading even thinking about this, but I am now ready to tackle sleep training with Little Lady. She is waking up a couple times a night to eat. The first time she wakes up, she is famished... she likely doubles her weight in that one feeding. The other time(s), she just wants to be held or to be next to us in bed. So, after many months of this, I am just way to tired to think

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-55142699667887787202010-01-12T20:17:00.000-08:002010-01-12T20:21:51.259-08:00

This picture cracks me up! She did this all on her own, and when it dropped, she frantically searched for it to plug herself up again!

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-92063815430246855892010-01-12T20:01:00.000-08:002010-01-12T20:17:08.801-08:00

Man, that is just one more thing to put on my to do list. Maybe I need to hire a cleaning lady??? Naw, we'll just hope that dear Little lady just won't be putting found things in her mouth... Oh, shoot, she is 6 months old and that is what 6 month olds do. So, vacuum it is. I am quickly training Little Man how to do it. And, currently he enjoys it and he is just oh so thorough - as any 5

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-53840733288782956472010-01-10T22:04:00.000-08:002010-01-10T22:14:07.387-08:00

This is pitiful. I am a terrible blogger. Actually, I am not so sure I am considered a "blogger" per-say, perhaps just one who occasionally likes to post lame comments on a blog. And, apparently, by occasionally, I mean rarely. :( I just realized I could not remember the last time I posted anything on this blog-o-mine. That is not good. Just my way of starting 2010 with a bang, right!!!!

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-25121315725657615792009-12-31T20:13:00.000-08:002009-12-31T20:19:15.210-08:00

Being the party animals that we are, here is our evening: Baby girl fed and asleep.Star Wars: The Clone Wars viewing for an enthusiastic 3 and 5 year old. Popcorn and leftover halloween soda dessertTivo recording of the east coast ball drop viewingLate bedtime for 2 little boys. A happy ending to 2009! Can't wait to see what 2010 has in store for us!!!!

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-57643073621436219212009-12-29T21:00:00.001-08:002009-12-29T21:07:56.066-08:00

Aughh... she moves. Not only does Little Lady move laterally (by rolling all over the place), she now moves forward. She moves especially quickly toward potential choking hazards, such as bits of newspaper, dried food chunks (courtesy of Squeaker), and any electronic devices. Guess we have to start vacuuming regularly. I mean, *more* regularly. ;) She looks like a little inchworm. It is

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-79016694079528254532009-12-26T12:58:00.000-08:002009-12-26T12:57:36.637-08:00

Party. Party. Party. Party. Breathe!The kids have been up very late 5 nights in a row, we are all sick (nothing terrible, just little colds, thankfully), and the house is in a terrible state. I think everyone needs a nap! :). We were very lucky that Santa stopped by our house given the behavior we saw Christmas eve - I think he tends to look past the over-excited naughtiness- and our house is

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-91678397168446817332009-12-20T10:20:00.000-08:002009-12-20T10:23:53.301-08:00

And, yes, it does come in a caucasian version.

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-1355107277971231972009-12-19T20:20:00.000-08:002009-12-19T20:34:27.718-08:00

That is the sound of time flying. At least, I think it is as I can't even pay attention to THAT. My goodness... I don't know what has happened the past 2 weeks, but I am pretty sure it involves NOT getting ready for Christmas. Let's do this by the numbers, shall we:6 evaluations/IEP meetings at work (in addition to current caseload)1 dentist appointment for child with black tooth1 child left

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-5019724549903837892009-12-04T20:28:00.000-08:002009-12-04T20:39:14.294-08:00

I am swamped with work, life and my need for sleep. Catcha in a week or so. Oh, okay, I have been a slacker with my posts, but really and truly... no sleep and too much to do, no time to sit and blog. But, I am not procrastinating as I have 4 reports to write and all three kids are asleep.. I should be doing my work... but oh, guess what? Guess where I am going next weekend??? I am taking

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-25430168294398174012009-12-01T06:09:00.000-08:002009-12-01T06:08:59.345-08:00

Little Lady's newest fascination (well, besides rolling around the room) is blowing razzberries. You might say, "Hi there baby girl!" She'll look right at you and say, "razzzz" like she's been doing it for years! So cute and messy ;). I tried to take a picture, but she is way too interested in the camera!

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-59007412625660126942009-11-24T21:17:00.000-08:002009-11-24T21:34:05.069-08:00

And so dang CUTE! Our dear little lady is quite an active little thing, too. She can't stand to be held for too long. She leans over as if to jump right out of your arms. Then, you put her down and she rolls around, playing with toys and cooing... man, to have that life! ;) Anyway, she is growing well and just a beautiful baby. I am constantly amazed at how much she is able to do. I guess

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-36299100498104536822009-11-24T21:10:00.000-08:002009-11-24T21:17:27.126-08:00

Where did the last few months go????? I am not sure, but it definitely was NOT spent working out, eating less carbs, yelling at my kids less. Is it January 1st already? I need to set some new resolutions! My first will be to go to bed before 10pm. Why, you ask? Well, because Miss 5-month-old-tomorrow has pretty much stopped sleeping through the night and for me, this leads to the following:

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-51888582088370600382009-11-22T21:49:00.000-08:002009-11-22T21:55:17.252-08:00

Good news, no school for a week. Bad news, no school for a week. In our school district, there is no school for the whole week around Thanksgiving. I guess it is good, in theory... people might want to travel for more than 3 days. But, for those of us just hanging around the ole house, it just means more time at home. I am sure it will go by quickly, and I won't miss having to rush the boys

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-34505350444813102462009-11-18T13:04:00.001-08:002009-11-22T21:49:44.540-08:00

Me: what is a "booty"Squeaker: it is like an elbow, but not an elbowMe: huh?Squeaker: it is like a bony skeleton thingGo figure.

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-46206861262713890592009-11-17T20:33:00.000-08:002009-11-17T20:38:27.739-08:00

You know what must be annoying for parents who work full time... I mean BOTH parents working full time... A whole week where school lets out at noon, followed by an entire week off. How do they do it. Luckily, I am not having issue with this as we are in half-day kindergarten, preschool and I work part time, but I was thinking, it must be hard for those whose schedules are more rigid.

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25799313.post-56160006068591162582009-11-16T22:00:00.000-08:002009-11-16T22:03:11.919-08:00

Ahhhhhhhh... And apparently these are some yummy fingers!

Kristin Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02589130301436503963noreply@blogger.com0