The Nugget

Hey, it works.

2012-01-29T19:16:00.000-05:00

So what do you do at your house when the children fight?

Three Months!

2012-01-27T11:56:00.000-05:00

Three months, when you're pregnant, last about 25 years.

Three months, when you've finally got that sweet baby in your arms, last about two seconds.

Nick is officially three months old today.

And I don't know how that happened.

As of today, we have a three-month-old.

One who can reach for, grab, and get toys into his mouth.

It's been a big day.

Adoration

2012-01-13T12:47:00.000-05:00

The feeling is mutual.

Lucky

2012-01-09T15:54:00.000-05:00

Before Nick was born, just about everybody I met assumed I was desperately hoping for a little girl. I wasn't. Don't get me wrong, a baby girl would have been wonderful. But honestly, I really wanted another boy.

When Nick was born, I was the first to see that my baby was, indeed, a boy. The poor doctor never got to announce the exciting news, because I was already yelling, "It's a boy! It's a boy!" I was just a little bit excited.

And now, as I go about my days with not one, not two, but three boys, I meet plenty of people who ask me if I'm going to try again for "my girl."

Now you tell me, if you got to spend your time with a bunch of men as handsome and sweet as the men I spend my time with, would you be trying for a girl? I didn't think so.

Of course, if I ever get to have a girl I'll be thrilled, and I'm sure she will be spoiled rotten by her daddy and brothers. But, if I were to have 25 more boys like these ones, I'd count myself one lucky mama.

What I Didn't Post

2011-12-31T04:06:00.000-05:00

It's 3 am on December 31st. I'm nursing my baby. And I've decided I have to catch up on the ol' blog before the new year. It's been a while. And I've got a lot to share. But I haven't edited a photo in two months (coincidentally, that's how old my baby is!) I'm typing one-handed, and I can't see the keyboard (a challenge for anyone, but for those of us who never bothered to learn typing it's really fun...). So what I'm trying to say is, here's what I wanted to tell you but didn't.

We had a baby. I guess I did tell you that. But it was kind of a big deal. I love him.

His brothers and his Daddy love him, too. What is it about seeing your big kids with your new baby? Pure bliss. And your husband with his new little one? Swoon.

My brother is an artist. And thank goodness for that, since we had a boy who needed to be Darth Maul for Halloween.

My house has been taken over by Pokemon. Camden was having some, let's call them "discipline issues," and needed an "incentive. He worked hard on his behavior and finally earned the pack of Yu-Gi-Oh cards he'd been wanting. Upon getting to the store - and figuring out he could get either ten pokemon cards for the price of five yu-gi-oh... we've become a pokemon family. Mandisa doesn't quite get it. But she's willing to give it a try for her boys.

I took photos of my sweet little one-week-old Nick.

Then I took pictures of my sweet little two-week-old Nick.

Speaking of two-week-old babies, how many do you know that were already smiling? Because mine was! Have you ever seen anything so cute in your whole entire life?

I kinda like my siblings. Just a little bit.

Camden played soccer. He is awesome. If I do say so myself. His biggest problem this fall was that sometimes he played too well. And then his coach would tell him to hold back. No need to run up the score in U8 soccer...

Jake's class gave a concert. There is absolutely nothing more entertaining than watching a bunch of third gators stand in front of a crowd.

Twenty-five cents a bag and the chance to use "power tools" means Mommy gets an almost clean yard.

Move over Michaelangelo. Nick's discovered ceiling fans. Your Sistine Chapel's got nothing on these things.

Twelve years ago, as I was getting ready to go out one evening, my grandmommy asked me where I was going. I told her I was going to be Mary at the Temple. She looked a little shocked and asked, "With who?" "Dan." She thought I had said I was going to be married at the Temple, and was just a little surprised since at that point I had only been out with this guy once. No worries, Grandmommy. I was just going to freeze my bum off being Mary in the live Nativity. But I got to look at those pretty blue eyes while freezing my bum off. And went to be married at the Temple - with Dan - the next Christmas.

This year we got to hold a real live baby. And we were inside, so no freezing bums. But he's still got those pretty blue eyes. And I think his new baby might be lucky enough to have them, too. Maybe...

Jake turned NINE. We celebrated with a Harry Potter party. It was pretty much the coolest party ever.

Camden is - hands down - the best, most attentive big brother ever. I'm so glad he gets to be one!

And then there's Mandisa, who takes her responsibilities very seriously.

Okay, the baby is going back to bed, and so must I.

Busy

2011-12-11T09:04:00.000-05:00

Sorry for the lack of posts lately.

We've been busy doing a lot of this.

And some other stuff,

but mostly this.

Introducing...

2011-11-07T16:17:00.000-05:00

Nicholas Alexander

Arrival: Thursday, October 27, 2011

2:03 am

Weight: 7 pounds 4 ounces

Height: 20 1/2 inches

Absolutely perfect.

Finally!

2011-09-22T13:47:00.000-04:00

Guess who FINALLY lost a tooth!

There's a heart attack in my future.

2011-09-21T09:45:00.000-04:00

Jake has been waiting for years to play football. Our county league starts at age eight, which seemed like a good age to this mommy. At least, it did when he was five. Several years down the road. Until then, we could stick with soccer and baseball. I, for one, am much more comfortable with those no-pads-needed sports!

But guess what. Years do go by, and cute little five-year-old boys do grow up into big kinda-tough eight-year-old boys. And mommies find themselves registering their babies for the local tackle football league. Oh goodness.

So, here's where I admit my bad mothering thoughts to all the world. On Jake's first day of practice - a 100+ degree day in August - I sent him off with his daddy for two hours of real football drills. I knew there would be yelling coaches and hot sweaty bodies under heavy, uncomfortable pads. I knew he would get hit and knocked down. And while I hoped and prayed he wouldn't actually get hurt, I also hoped and prayed that he would hate it. I had my little speech all planned out. You know the one... "You made a commitment to the team, and you will play - and give it your all - for the whole season. But then you never have to play football again." It would be a teaching moment and my heart would only have to suffer through one season of tackle football. Oh, and did I mention I really hoped he would sit the bench all season? It's true.

But here's the kicker. That first night after his first practice, Jake walked in the house beaming. I've never seen him so happy - no, overjoyed - about anything. Ever. And after a shower - I couldn't actually stay in the same room with him due to the overpowering smell of hot, sweaty boy - he told me how much he loves football. Later, his daddy told me how practice went down, and yes, my boy got yelled at, and run hard, and hit and knocked down a-plenty. But my boy also got to hit and knock down somebody else's boy. And he liked that.

It's been over a month. Jake's practiced three times a week for two hours at a time. He's played in two games. Should have been three, but now we're all sick - except for Camden, of course, who started it all - so the Wildcats had to struggle through last night's game without their star second-string offensive lineman. Sorry Wildcats. He really wanted to be there. And after all these hours of the hardest work this little man has ever had to do, he's even more in love with football.

This mommy's dreams of not worrying about concussions and broken bones and torn whatnots have been successfully dashed. I've got a lot of worrying in my future.

But when I see that boy's gleefull face, I figure I'll gladly worry. He sure does love the game.

I think it's a good thing these boys wear helmets. Because that cute face couldn't possibly cause the fear and intimidation he'd like to instill in his opposing defensive lineman. But I sure do think it's sweet!

Nightmares and Snotty Noses

2011-09-19T10:53:00.000-04:00

See this boy? Looks all sweet and innocent, right?

Don't let him fool you.

This boy has been having nightmares lately. Most involve being chased by robbers, and once he's told his mommy the story he can go right back to sleep.

But the other night his nightmare was a little more disturbing.

He dreamed his principal shot him.

And no, we're not going to try to figure that one out all phsychologically and stuff.

Sufffice it to say, he was a little shaken up.

Which means only one thing.

Mom must sleep with the boy - NOSE TO NOSE. There is no other option. Or position.

Did I mention that this boy had a cold?

Because he did.

And now that he feels fine, his mom most certainly does not.

Just thought I'd share.

2011-09-15T10:01:00.000-04:00

I had this teacher in high school and she was awesome. She taught 10th grade English. She was young - just out of college and a former classmate of my best buddy's big sister. She drank diet coke like it was going out of style. She introduced me to Jane Austen and even made us all dress up for a day and act all ettiquette-y. She really cared about her students.

Then she got married. So exciting! And then she had kiddos and stopped teaching so she could stay home for them. My kind of girl!

And then, last week during our terrible rain and flooding, she lost her twelve-year-old son.

I've been heartbroken for her and for her family. I've wondered how on earth one can go on, continue functioning, after the death of a child.

In the eulogy she gave at her sweet boy's memorial service the other day (read it here), she answered my question.

She has such love for her children and for the Lord. She has faith. And she continues, after all these years, to be an example to me. I will forever remember that a gentleman should walk on the street side of a lady so she doesn't get hit by the trash - and worse - someone might throw out an upstairs window. And I will forever remember the love and faith of a wonderful mother.

Please keep this family in your prayers.

10:00 pm

2011-09-03T22:12:00.000-04:00

I thought he went to bed a little too willingly tonight...

Note From an Aunt

2011-08-19T08:07:00.000-04:00

You know what I think is really cool?

I've got these nephews.

And they are really into photography.

I always knew they'd grow up and want to be just like their Aunt Jen.

Or not.

So, even though I really can't claim credit,

I'm way proud of them.

Check out James' photo blog here.

And one last thing...

2011-08-16T08:36:00.000-04:00

We mustn't forget

Granny's Famous Last Night Glow Stick Parade.

Riding bikes in the dark.

Lit only by glow sticks.

No family reunion would be complete without it!

The Rest

2011-08-12T21:45:00.000-04:00

Seeing as how we've been home longer than we were actually at our reunion, it's probably about time I finish this up. So, what else did we do? ...

Mostly, we hung out.

We celebrated Aunt Beka''s birthday...

By doing the Peanuts dance.

We rescued a turtle.

We read good books.

We tie-dyed.

We ate treats.

Mayo watched - and occasionally interupted - many a soccer game.

We made indoor s'mores with Uncle John.

We beat the pinata...

... wore it as a hat ...

... and showed off our model walks.

We made more s'mores.

In summary, we wore ourselves out!

Fearless

2011-08-12T00:22:00.001-04:00

Every evening after dinner we played soccer.

And every evening after dinner Camden got hurt.

But that didn't stop him.

Because the boy is fearless.

And really, really good.

Volleyball

2011-08-11T08:34:00.001-04:00

There is something so satisfying about spiking on your big brother.

Fifty-Two (or Five)

2011-08-10T07:53:00.001-04:00

More adventures!

Our reunion this year - and for the second year in a row - included an all-day, fifty-two mile bike ride.

For some of the tougher among us, that is.

For the smaller crowd, there was also a five-miler.

And they did great!

(As did the tough guys. We're all pretty impressed by them, too!)

New River Adventure

2011-08-09T08:20:00.001-04:00

We went kayaking on the New River.

And by "we" I really mean a group of family members, not including me.

Can you see me getting that big belly in and out of a kayak?

Would have been entertaining, I'll give you that.

I helped get the smaller crowd situated and waved as they pushed off. All grins!

And then, as my family battled the rapids, I sat back and enjoyed the view.

And finally, little orange specks began to show up on the horizon.

Here they come!

Dan says Camden did help paddle most of the way.

The Jake-ayak looked awsome coming in!

Perfectly in sync and showing the rest of us how it's done!

And then Dan just had to go back out.

First, he took a nephew's kayak.

Then he came back with two!

Kayak hog.

Or, maybe he's not so bad.

It was a rescue mission.

Can't leave an aunt - or her kayak - out in the middle of the river.

It was a great time. For those on the water... and those not.

To the Beach!

2011-08-08T08:20:00.000-04:00

Every afternoon found boys hopping on bikes.

Heading for the BEACH!

There was plenty of sand-play.

Sand castles, a model of Claytor Lake itself,

and of course...

burying cousins in the sand!

And there was lots and lots of water play, too.

Especially when Daddy (aka Uncle Dan) started throwing children.

A definite high point in our vacation!

Family Reunion 2011

2011-08-05T13:10:00.000-04:00

We spent last week with our favorite people.

Aunt Debbie and all the cousins were there.

These kids are why my kids count down to the reunion all year long.

We Nuggets were there, too.

We even have a picture to prove it!

Aunt Fran brought her crew along.

When I grow up, I want to be like Aunt Fran.

Oh, and her girls did my nails.

Aunt Bekah and Uncle Jacob came all the way fyrom Utah.

Yippee!

And of course there were Uncle Bob and Aunt Ro.

Life of the party, as always!

My favorite photo of the whole week.

Poppy, Uncle Bob, and Aunt Fran.

See, your siblings really are your best friends for life!

Uncle John and Aunt Maria continue to be too cute for words.

And pretty awsome, too.

Yay for Granny and Poppy!

They make it all happen.

So I wanted a picture of the O-kids (minus two who weren't there and we missed them terribly).

And this is what they give me.

This right here - this is why I like these people.

Of course we took the silly mom and sisters shot.

We meant to take a nice one, too. But it never actually happened.

Put this one on your mantels, girls!

There is nothing in this world quite like the friendship of a cousin.

They see each other once a year, but every time it's like not a moment has passed.

Love it.

We had a blast, and I'll be sharing what we did over the next few days.

Stay tuned!

While You Wait

2011-08-01T16:08:00.001-04:00

We're back from our fun-filled family reunion.

And I'm busily going through 1434 photos from the week.

Once I've got some semblance of order to these photos, I'll be sharing quite a few.

Don't worry. Not 1434. I promise.

But until then, I thought you might like to see what 26 weeks preggo looks like on a 5 foot tall, (normally) 100 pound girl.

That's right. It looks big.

(Picure taken a week ago. And yes, that belly is even bigger now.)

Highlights, Part 4

2011-07-23T08:55:00.000-04:00

In sharing our Disney highlights, I can't skip the...

RIDES!

Some people go to Disney to meet princesses,

but they must have girls.

We went to Disney for the rides.

And they certainly did not disappoint.

When asked by a friendly (they're all friendly) cast member,

Jake announced that his favorites were...

The Tower of Terror

and

the Rock-n-Roller Coaster.

"How old are you?!"

"Eight."

No wusses here!

And you know the best part?

There was only one that Camden couldn't ride.

And they gave him a special pass to go to the head of the line next time.

When he's grown that last half-inch.

And now, for a final highlight...

Disney World has the most entertaining LINES and WAITING AREAS.

That's right,

I stood in them all.

And bailed out to wait.

Next time, Camden and I will both ride every ride.

Highlights, Part 3

2011-07-22T08:25:00.000-04:00

Next, we bring you...

Jedi Training Academy

The boys were accepted (we raced to sign them up first thing in the morning) into the prestigious Jedi Training Academy, where they were taught the ways of the force, how to handle a light saber, and finally, the correct light saber battle moves to defeat Darth Vader.

He even showed up.

And all the dads - especially ours - were very excited.

"The force is strong in this one."

Vader really said that about Camden.

He was right.

Just check out that jump at the end - had to use the force for that one!

"I've been waiting for you."

Yep, he really said that to Jake.

A comment like that from Vader would have made me awfully nervous.

But Jake just took it in stride.

'Ol Darth couldn't get under his skin.

My boys have some serious Jedi skills.

And the diplomas to prove it.

Highlights, Part 2

2011-07-19T10:19:00.000-04:00

Our next hightlight would have to be the...

Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular

In which Della (my dad) got shot.

Repeatedly.

He may not follow directions well

- he was specifically instructed NOT to fall to the ground -

but he sure does put on a good show!

Della scraped up his leg and lost the sole of his shoe during his big moment.

But the grandkids thought it was the funniest thing they'd ever seen.

So worth it.

Highlights Week, Part 1

2011-07-18T10:50:00.001-04:00

I thought this week I'd share a few of the highlights from our Disney World adventure.

So, without further ado, I give you...

The Hollywood Studios Backlot Tour

Because where else do you get to see your Daddy star is an action adventure movie?

And not only get slammed by a thousand (really in truly) gallons of water,

But then, just as he thinks it's all over...

Get slammed again?

And, as if that wasn't enough to bring the joy into our day (and it was!),

We got to see Uncle Clark's ship hit by a torpedo.

It was all very awesome.

Guess Where We Went

2011-07-16T16:58:00.001-04:00

We went on vacation.

Can you guess where?

It was pretty far away,

...but it wasn't New York.

Or San Fransisco.

We didn't go to Mexico,

...or on an under-sea adventure.

We weren't on an African safari,

...or in a galaxy far, far away.

Need another hint?

We spent some time with Indie,

...and Captain Jack Sparrow signed our swords.

We were accepted into the Jedi Training Academy,

...and went below ground to get a taste of a bug's life.

Still not sure?

One last hint...

We went to a place so magical, we didn't even mind getting totally soaked in a torrential downpour.

Because we did it all with old friends.

That's right!

We went to Disney World!

And it was wonderful.

I Caved

2011-07-15T18:35:00.000-04:00

I told Jake he couldn't read the fourth Harry Potter book until he turned nine. Starting with number four, these books get steadily more intense and scary (and I LOVE them). I just didn't think he was ready to deal with some of things in this next book.

But this afternoon Jake told me the story of the Iliad. And when he calmly and matter-of-factly described - in great detail, mind you - the death of Hector, I started to rethink my previous stance.

I caved. And I don't think we'll be hearing much from Jake for the next few days.

The Greatest

2011-07-14T20:47:00.000-04:00

You know that feeling you get when you do something really well? It's the greatest feeling in the world, isn't it?

Nope. Almost, but not quite the greatest.

The greatest feeling in the world is watching your children work hard and accomplish hard things.

I am awed by these little boys who can do so much. They work so hard. And they accomplish great things.

And as I sit on the sidelines, watching and cheering - whether they're reading the longest book they've read yet, eating a whole dinner without complaining, or winning swim races - I am so grateful to be their mom.

Disney World post(s) coming soon, Bob. I promise!

Coming Home

2011-07-11T23:32:00.000-04:00

Sometimes, when you come home after a week away, you find things like this.

And sometimes, you find twenty.

Twenty ginormous squash, that is.

Who knows how many carrots.

The Virginia summer did us in about a quarter of the way through.

There'll be more tomorrow.

I'm thinking we're looking at over a hundred when all is said and done.

(That's the carrot count. And the temperature.)

Summer Swim

2011-06-30T08:32:00.001-04:00

I have never - nor will I ever - entered the water head first.

But my children?

They do it every day.

A Trampoline and a Lesson

2011-06-29T11:38:00.001-04:00

I thought I'd take some fun pictures of the boys on the trampoline.

But I soon learned a valuable lesson:

Sometimes, it's better not to watch what the children are doing.

For my sanity.

And for their enjoyment.

So I walked away.

And all was well.

Yesterday

2011-06-28T12:48:00.000-04:00

Yesterday after swim practice, we made a cake.

Then we played in the pool.

And on the trampoline.

And we had silly water balloon races.

Then, after blowing out SEVEN candles,

we ate that cake.

It was a good day.

The Ballgame

2011-06-24T14:34:00.000-04:00

Take me out to the ball game!

Take me out to the crowd!

Buy me a hotdog...

...and cotton candy,

I'll do a dance in the seventh-inning-stretch!

'Cause it's 'root, root, root' for BOTH teams;

If the Mariner's don't win I might cry!

Oh, it's one, two, three strikes, 'You're OUT!'

At the old ball game!

Thank you Poppa for an amazing evening of baseball! We had the best time at the Nationals-Mariners game the other night. We enjoyed the atmosphere, the incredible seats, the food, and most of all - the exciting game! It came down to the bottom of the ninth, and we really thought the Mariners were going to win. But... With two outs and two strikes, you'd never believe it - a HOME RUN! Three runners in, and the Nat's won it all. So exciting, and everybody was thrilled. Except for one little Mariners fan. (I promise, if it had been any other match-up, he would have been cheering for those Nats right along with the rest of us!)

PS. A quick little note for all my lady friends. Go to a baseball game pregnant. Honestly, it's the best! I got free water, a free extra scoop on my ice cream cone, and a sweet elderly usher brought me a soft padded chair when we left our seats to seek shelter during the lightning storm. That baby belly can really come in handy!

I Love My Neighborhood

2011-06-18T16:30:00.000-04:00

I wish I lived on a farm. With acres and acres of fields to plant, care for, and harvest. I wish I could have chickens and goats and bees. I wish my children had unlimited space to run and play and explore.

But here's the thing. If I had all that, I wouldn't have this perfect neighborhood I live in. With great friends. And tons of kids. And dogs. And ice cream at the bus stop on the last day of school.

I love my neighborhood.

SEVEN

2011-06-17T10:43:00.001-04:00

My boy is Seven.

Have I ever mentioned just how much I love Seven. Best age ever. I promise.

This is going to be a good year.

And now, without further ado, I present to you Seven of my favorite things about Camden...

1. Camden gives the best hugs. He wraps those (not so) little arms - and legs - around you and you know you're getting a good hug. Mmmm. I could use one right now!

2. Camden is an athlete. Give him a ball, a bat, a hoop, a pool... The boy can do it. He pushes himself hard, always wanting to do his very best. He is so fun to watch!

3. Camden has a great sense of humor. He can laugh at himself and can even carry on a joke started by others. That little giggle of his is probably one of the cutest things you'll ever hear.

4. Camden is generous. He loves to give gifts to his friends and family and takes great delight in their happiness. He uses his own money to get gifts for friends' birthdays and will spend a long time picking out just the right thing.

5. Camden loves to clean his room. (As his mom, I really appreciate this!) He loves things to be neat and organized and once started will work until that room is spotless.

6. Camden is excited about learning. He loves to show us his schoolwork when he brings it home and tells us all about all the books he reads. He always does his best and is learning so much so fast!

7. Camden wants to live with his mommy forever. He tells me he's going to marry a nice lady who will like me and they will live with me. Sounds like the perfect plan to this mama! (I'll soak it up while I can, because I'm thinking in a few years this plan may change a bit...)

My list could easily go well over Seven. I could talk about the cutest freckled nose in the whole entire world. Or his (usually) calm nature and quiet little voice. Or how he runs to hug me when I pick him up at school. Or...

But I'll wrap it up. Because I've got a lunch date with one absolutely perfect Seven-year-old and 17 other first-gators. We're having cupcakes. With sprinkles. Yum!

It's a...

2011-06-13T14:22:00.001-04:00

BABY!

And a pretty cute one at that.

If I do say so myself.

Field Day

2011-06-11T14:02:00.000-04:00

We headed off to Gatorville slathered in sunscreen and very excited.

We danced when we were supposed to be paying attention to the game.

But who can resist when the music is calling?

We played kick-ball.

Our feet grew thirty-five sizes.

It was a little hard to walk.

We spent some real quality time with favorite friends.

Who are about to move away. Boo.

Like I said.

Favorite friends. Moving. Boo.

We got wet.

We (moms) spied on our children.

We enjoyed the snow cones.

We look forward to those every year. Yum!

Did I mention we got wet?

We love Field Day.

And we really love Gatorville.

Happiest place on Earth!

Happy Tick-Day!

2011-06-07T00:46:00.000-04:00

When you live with men, you get to celebrate your birthday by going camping.
You get campfire smoke in your face no matter where you sit - smoke follows beauty, you know.
You lay your big fat preggo body on the hard ground to sleep.
You share your pillow with a smelly six-year-old.
You piddle in a toilet that serves as home to hundreds of mosquitoes.
Your children - and loving husband - sing Happy Birthday and tell you the itchy bites on your bum are your birthday present.
You eat s'mores for breakfast.
You hike three miles.
You remove eight ticks from various members of your family.
You bathe the dog.
You do five loads of laundry.
You have three handsome dates for your dinner out.
You eat yummy cake lovingly made by sweet - probably dirty - hands.
You love every single minute of it.
Well, except maybe the tick part.

One Week

2011-05-26T13:09:00.000-04:00

In one week...

Camden and I joined the rest of the first-gators on a field trip to Ferry Farm and Kenmore.

Fun day!

Jake presented his research project - on hyenas - at the county-wide Focus Festival.

His Focus teacher is just about the most loving woman ever.

Jake and I joined the rest of the second-gators on a field trip to the Natural History Museum.

We got to watch a film with a gorilla.

Camden performed in class musical, "How Does Your Garden Grow?"

He was a weed. A very cute weed.

The boys played three games and celebrated the end of an awesome baseball season.

Just in time for swim to start up.

Add in two photo shoots , lots of gardening, and a day in the ER and you've got an idea of what life's really like 'round these parts!

Thief

2011-05-25T13:21:00.001-04:00

Our strawberry patch is doing great.

And we're not the only ones enjoying it, either.

Busted

2011-05-23T20:50:00.001-04:00

Remember when I said we play a lot of baseball?

Proof.

The American Passtime

2011-05-17T23:12:00.000-04:00

We take our baseball very seriously around here.

And we spend a lot of time playing the game.

Both on the field and in our own backyard.

This has several consequences...

1. I do a LOT of laundry. I promise you, no sport gets you dirtier than baseball.

2. We are forever praying that those balls hit over the fence will continue to miss the neighbor's car.

3. My boys are REALLY good at baseball.

Cape Cod, I'll see you in about ten years.

PS. You may someday get to see pictures of Jake. If he can snap out of the attitude he developed at team picture day. There is one very definite reason my photo portfolio is not filled with pictures of my own children.

Shameless Bragging by the Mom

2011-05-15T21:54:00.001-04:00

This boy wrote and gave the best talk ever today in primary.

By himself.

I think we may be growing up.

The Other End of the Spectrum

2011-05-05T14:47:00.000-04:00

Since I've shown you our beautiful home-grown spinach (which, really, everybody eats right up!), I thought it only fitting that I show you another end of the food spectrum 'round these parts.

Last week, two boys and their Bubby planned the ultimate meal. We ate hot dogs, cheetoes, doritoes, chips, and apple sauce. Washed down with a tall chocolate milkshake. "The milkshake isn't dessert, Mommy. It's the drink." My boys were in heaven.

At least until this mean mom added green beans and ruined their perfect dinner experience.

You'll never guess.

2011-05-03T21:39:00.001-04:00

Guess what our garden gave us?

And guess who's been eating it up like there's no tomorrow?

I'll give you a hint...

EVERYBODY.

(Yes, even Jake.)

Egg 2011 - Part Two

2011-04-27T14:42:00.000-04:00

After the hunt, we like to throw those eggs at each other.

It can get pretty competitive.

Some people even try to cheat.

And some people notice.

When cheaters are caught, they get boo-ed.

And they have to get a new egg.

Finally, the tossing begins.

And as we step farther and farther from each other, eggs begin to drop.

Broken egg? You're out!

But if you're willing to sacrifice yourself for the sport...

You're egg will survive.

And you just might win the backyard toss!!!

Of course, the real winners of the day are the ones who can toss the egg over the house.

Without breaking it.

Egg 2011 - Part One

2011-04-25T15:51:00.000-04:00

The annual EGG-stravaganza makes us all pretty happy.

Game faces on, we race to find the hidden eggs.

Sometimes we're more successful than others.

And sometimes we all spot them at the same time.

Once the kids have found all the eggs, they do the hiding.

They hide very well.

And they think they're so clever.

The grown-up hunt can get pretty brutal.

(And we wonder where the kids get it.)

Some of us find more eggs than others.

And don't hesitate to rub it in.

Love What I Do

2011-04-21T09:50:00.000-04:00

We're calling it an investment, but it feels more like a new toy.

I'm so excited to get out and do some shoots with this baby!!!

Outside the Box

2011-04-14T11:32:00.000-04:00

My children have always been good "outside the box" thinkers. For Jake, this usually takes the form of creating - alien languages, whole worlds, his own yu-gi-oh cards. For Camden, it's usually in the form of "pushing the limits."

The other day, as I was happily going about my business of feeding hungry teachers (conference night, PTO, you get the idea), I was grabbed by one of Camden's favorite people in the whole wide world. His kindergarten para. And thank goodness she feels about him just as he feels about her. Because she told me this little tidbit, with a big ol' laugh (instead of concern and a warning):

Camden's first grade class was discussing what jobs people have that require them to wear hats. After several kids' answers of "police man," "builder," and "pilot," Camden chimed in. "Robber!" Yep, that's my boy.

The next day, that boy went to another level entirely. On a paper requiring him to write down people beginning with the letters in the word "think," Camden was most excited about his choices for "T" and "H." Camden's choices: "terrorist" and "Hades." Like I said, that's my boy.

We're waiting for the call from the principal.

The Derby

2011-04-11T13:55:00.000-04:00

Jake's first Pinewood Derby was Saturday, and boy was it a success! No, he didn't win. In fact, he came in last in every heat - that's coming in last 18 times. But that smile there? It's real. And it's real happy. Because the boy won first place in the "Most Original" category. And for Jake, there is no better prize.

Jackson City Bus, 2011 model - Designed, sanded, painted, and raced by Jake. Hacksawed by Mom.

PS. Dan's getting power tools for Father's Day. There will be no more hacksawing of Pinewood Derby cars for this mommy. Just saying.

Another

2011-03-30T10:03:00.000-04:00

Eight years ago, we got one of these. We called it Jake. And we thought it was pretty great.

(Still do.)

Six years ago, we got another. We called it Camden. And we thought it was pretty great.

(Still do.)

This fall, we're getting another.

Overwhelmed

2011-03-24T10:07:00.001-04:00

Jake may simply be trying to smile into the sun, but his face sure does look like I feel right about now.

And no, it's not snowing in VA. Old picture.

Jake is eight-years-old. He's in second grade. He's smart, funny, and a really good boy. And he's doing great.

His mommy is thirty-years-old. She's got a college degree. And, although she'd like to think she's also smart, funny, and a really good girl, she's not doing so great. She's overwhelmed.

I'm overwhelmed. By second grade.

There's homework every day. There's a project every month. There's Focus (we used to call it GT, but I think that's politically incorrect now) with a big research project. There's cub scout badge requirements. There's a block of wood sitting on my counter that needs to become a Pinewood Derby car. There's baseball practice. There's bedtime.

Did I mention the child is eight and at some point needs to run and play, preferably outside?

And all I can think, as I make my lists of due dates, is "If this is elementary school, what is high school going to do to me?"

DAY 3

2011-03-12T14:17:00.000-05:00

DAY 3: A picture of the cast from your favorite show.

Oh, So You Think You Can Dance, I count the days til you start each summer.

My boys think I could win this show.

I couldn't, but it's nice to know they think so.

DAY 2

2011-03-09T16:45:00.001-05:00

DAY 2: A picture of you and the person you've been close to for a while.

Mayo and Me, Together Forever

Mandisa and I are close. I mean, really close. Like, less than a foot apart, if she's got anything to say about it. Makes cooking dinner, washing the floor, or walking across the room kind of difficult. But at least I'm never lonely. I love my neurotic mess of a dog.

DAY 1

2011-03-06T21:28:00.000-05:00

So, in case you hadn't noticed, my blogging has been pretty spotty lately. Lest you get concerned, don't. My children are just as crazy/cute/funny/naughty/(your choice of adjective here) as ever. I've just not been feeling the blogging bug. Since I really do enjoy blogging, and plan to continue for as long as you'll read (or longer, since I'm not sure you're reading as it is), I figure it's time to give myself a nice swift kick in the pants. There's this little thirty-day challenge going around on facebook. Seen it? If you haven't, no worries. I'll walk you through it as I try it out. But not on facebook. Right here on The Nugget. So here we go...

DAY 1: A picture of you and 15 facts.

1. I have way too many gray hairs for any one 30-year-old. Actually, they are all pure white. I can thank my Bubby for my prematurely white hair. Thanks, Bubby.

2. I make the best chocolate chip cookies. Ask anybody. Oh, and I just ate three.

3. Once I read a harlequin romance novel (there were about a thousand of them on the shelves in my room in a beach rental). I read my favorite part over and over. It was the part describing a farmhouse kitchen. The rest of the book was pretty dumb.

4. I have very little (no) patience with complaining. For some reason, my children still don’t get this.

5. I didn’t know how to get home from my high school until I was half-way through my junior year. Luckily, I had good friends who took care of me.

6. For one month every year, I actually like my pink counter tops. That month is February, which is now over.

7. Once in college, I woke up late and raced, in my pajamas, across campus and into class. The room was dark and empty, so I went back to the dorm. It wasn’t until I got there that I realized it was 3:00 am. No, the dark, silent campus never clued me in.

8. I’m wearing a fur coat in all my wedding photos. And Dan’s ears are bright red.

9. My handwriting changes every time I pick up a pen, and sometimes in the middle of a word. I’d love to see a handwriting analyst try to figure me out.

10. I want chickens and bees. My neighbors, on the other hand, may not like that idea as much as I do.

11. I grew up thinking I was terrible at Scrabble. Then I played somebody who wasn’t a member of my family. And I realized that my family is cutthroat. And I’m not terrible at Scrabble. But now I like Bananagrams better.

12. I like just about everybody. Really, it’s true. Except for people who smoke around children. Them, I don’t like. At all.

13. I have the world’s most incredible memory. I remember everything. Including that one day at recess in sixth grade when a bunch of us girls were sitting on the parallel bars and Lauren said her sister wore brown eye shadow and we were all like, “ewww! brown!” and then Ms. Dagata said she wore brown eye shadow and that was when we all realized brown was the best color for eye shadow. Yeah, stuff like that.

14. My first celebrity crush was Christian Bale. Not “Batman” Christian Bale, “Jack Kelly” Christian Bale. These little girls who love him now don’t know the half of it. They don’t even know he can sing, dance, and lead a newsboy strike.

15. I fell asleep on the beach in LA and woke up to a guy taking pictures of me. I think he was more impressed by the spectacular sunburn I was sporting on my eyelids than by my stunning figure.

Oh, the Irony

2011-02-24T23:08:00.001-05:00

I got a package from my Dad today. In it, there was a tupperware container I'd left at their house, a lump of silly putty, and a pair of Jake's socks. And a George Mason sweatshirt.

Growing up, I used to steal my dad's clothes. It drove him nuts. And one of my favorites was an old, ratty GMU sweatshirt. Ironic, because I swore I would NEVER go to George Mason. No way. No how.

Which itself is pretty ironic. Since guess what I have tucked away in our file box... my George Mason diploma.

Thanks, Dad! I love my new sweatshirt!

Oh, and if you decide to get one for yourself, I'll have to try it out. I might want that one, too...

New Skill

2011-02-17T12:35:00.001-05:00

Last night, Camden learned to crochet.

He was taught by a 17-year-old boy (who also learned last night).

It was pretty much wonderful.

Thoughts on Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T21:27:00.001-05:00

My Valentine.

He's cute. And fun.

I totally lucked out.

This morning (3:45 am to be exact), I sent him off to catch a plane.
Maybe not our most romantic Valentine's Day.
But when I remember that two years ago I didn't get to see him - or even talk to him - at all, I figure packing his socks and underwear is better than nothing!

Mother Nature gave me a beautiful Valentine today... My daffodils are popping up! It'll be a while before they do much more than that, and they'll probably be covered in snow again before they get to do anything exciting, but it's so nice to know that Spring is indeed on its way!

Another gift from my friend Mother Nature (that's right, she's my friend today)... It was over 60 degrees today!

It was also super windy. As in, "blow the just-cleaned-up dog poop back all over the yard" windy. You think I'm exagerating, but I'm not. Until today, I never would have believed it, either.

Don't worry, though. I cleaned it all back up. Doesn't it just make you want a dog?

And then I sent the children out to play. In case you were wondering what one does with a heavy winter coat that was most definitely needed yesterday - and will most definitely be needed tomorrow - but is most definitely not needed today... You use it as a cape. Just thought you might want to know that.

Thank goodness for Valentine's Day! Our Halloween candy was almost gone. The candy jar was dangerously close to empty. But not anymore! Thank you St. Valentine for being martyred and lending your name to a pagan holiday so we Christians can celebrate it in good conscience. I truly appreciate the opportunity to refill the candy jar, especially with Easter coming so late this year.

Finally...

Knock Knock

Who's there?

Stopwatch!

Stopwatch who?

Stopwatch-you're doin' and give me a smooch!

Yeah, I thought that was a good one, too.

Down Down Down

2011-02-08T09:46:00.001-05:00

Ever played "Down Down Down?" Well, you should.

Here's how to play:

Start with both players facing each other, playing toss. Each time a player misses the ball, he has to go "down," first to one knee, then to both, followed by one elbow, then both, and finally to the chin. All the while, the game of catch continues. The first player to miss the ball with his chin on the ground is out.

Let me tell you, this is a fun game.

Even for the spectator. The body positions and funny faces are great entertainment.

Play it today!

Six Weeks

2011-02-07T20:08:00.001-05:00

The next six weeks are some of the only weeks during our year that we don't have a sport going on. Because Jake's first basketball season is officially over (and because our gymnastics coach quit). But no worries, it definitely won't be his last. He's already counting the days to next season.

Oh, and that photo? Yeah, he made the shot.

Cub Scout

2011-02-05T08:05:00.000-05:00

I just sent my eight-year-old and his daddy off to hike around downtown Fredericksburg for the day.

In the freezing rain.

Because that's the sort of stuff you do when you're a cub scout.

He's ecstatic. His daddy...

(Let's just say Daddy's already been a cub scout.)

Caught

2011-02-01T12:55:00.000-05:00

If your parents want to give your children cameras for Christmas, before saying, "Yes! Great idea!" (as I did), you might want to think seriously about the things you do around the house. Like, say, channeling Taylor Swift while making dinner. Just a thought.

IHOP

2011-01-31T13:15:00.001-05:00

We don't go out to dinner often. But we did on Saturday! Whether it was because the kitchen was still dirty from Friday night's dinner or because Dan was craving unlimited pancakes, we may never know.

Did you know that I spent a lot of time at IHOP in high school? It's true. It was open all the time. And who can resist the Rooty Tooty Fresh and Fruity in the middle of the night? Not me. Of course, I generally didn't eat much on those midnight pancake runs. About the time our food would come out, one of my friends would usually have to leave to drive me home. I had an early curfew - at least compared to theirs.

But I digress. I'm not here to tell stories of the Nugget's high school days. (Though maybe I'll have to think about that idea. There are some good ones!) I'm here today to tell you all about our dinner at IHOP.

At IHOP, I learned some things I did not know...

1. My boys ALL make the same face when a camera is pointed at them. Got a drink? Great prop!

2. Camden can eat his weight in pancakes. Good thing Daddy got the unlimited plate, because Cam's humongous pancake just didn't quite cut it!

3. Even at IHOP, we can still find a use for ketchup.

And finally - and probably most importantly - I learned that my children did not know that pancakes, waffles, french toast, and eggs are, in fact, breakfast foods. They were legitimately shocked to hear this little tidbit of information. Camden's response: "You mean they serve pancakes for breakfast?"

Moral of the story: This mommy serves breakfast for dinner a little too often.

Snowalien

2011-01-29T16:47:00.000-05:00

No boring snowmen for us.

Around here, we build snow ALIENS.

With mohawks.

What would you do?

2011-01-27T14:11:00.000-05:00

What would you do if you couldn't get your gate open because it was jammed in the snow?

Would you ask your mommy for help, or would you dismantle the hinges and break the latch so you could lift it right on up and go under?

We chose the latter.

Matty and His Mommy

2011-01-21T10:44:00.004-05:00

Granny isn't just a Granny. She's also a mommy. And she's not just Daddy's mommy, either. She's got five other people that call her mommy, too!
One of these people is our Uncle Matt-Matt. And you know what, I hope that when I'm a granny my boys love me as much as Matty loves his mommy.

Be Patient

2011-01-20T13:20:00.000-05:00

I've decided my blog needs a facelift. So, I've started fooling with things. Only problem is, I have NO IDEA what I'm doing. So.... I guess what I'm saying here is, please be patient while The Nugget looks like a mess. Maybe I'll figure out what I'm doing. Or maybe Dan will come home from Florida (someday) and save me.

Iced In

2011-01-18T23:10:00.001-05:00

We're iced in.

Our trees, house, and streets are encased in a nice thick sheet of ice. You northerners who laugh at us for closing schools for "nothing," come on over.

We'll show you "nothing."

Princesses

2011-01-11T10:50:00.004-05:00

I live with men. Therefore, I get very little princess exposure. So when I have a chance to get a picture with Cinderella, you better believe I'm going to take it. And post it for all the world to see, even if I do look kind of goofy.

Oh, and can I just say how happy I am that we have girl cousins who will get in pictures of Cinderella with me? Cause my boys chose to wait by the car - in the cold - instead of be seen with their crazy princess-loving mother. Ah, girl cousins. Love them!

It Worked

2011-01-10T22:54:00.004-05:00

I'm not saying corndogs at Applebee's and a stop at Redbox are a total cure.
And they certainly don't cancel out discipline.
Trust me, we've got a ways to go still.
But we've got a much happier little boy.
Yesterday, we even made it to church.
No fits.
Today we only had one.
But who wants a haircut right after school, right?
Totally understandable.
I like my happy little boy.
And I like Cam and Mommy time.
It tastes good.
Like ketchup.

Lesson Learned. Finally.

2011-01-07T01:50:00.005-05:00

I've mentioned before how Dan and I like to document our children's fits. We find them entertaining. Most of the time. And I was all set to write a cute little post about Camden's latest - his "Day on the Couch" - until it hit me that this one isn't entertaining. It's a learning experience for me. So, this post isn't funny. But it's true and from the heart. It's what I learned tonight. Here goes...

Camden spent Sunday on the couch. Literally. All day. The angry - even violent - fit he threw for a good part of the morning landed him on the living room couch, where he stayed (under the watchful eye of his father) while Jake and I went to church for the afternoon. By the time we got home he was asleep. "Oh, thank goodness. That's exactly what he needs," I told myself.

After the multiple, very public (thank goodness the public was all family who will love us anyway), fits of the day before, I had convinced myself that the child was "over-vacationed." It was time to get home and back to our steady routine. And sleep.

Sunday was bad. Really bad. But Monday would be better. He would sleep from 3:00 straight through til morning. And then he would be my happy little Cam again. I really like my happy little Cam. Everybody does - you just can't help yourself.

But Monday morning was bad. My happy little Cam was still possessed by an angry, wrathful monster. I sent him to school. Unhappy.

Should I tell you about Monday afternoon, Tuesday, Wednesday... You get it, right?

Camden is unhappy. And as I sat thinking about ways to discipline him and teach him to behave and calm down, I remembered having the same dilemna - albeit on a much smaller level - a full month ago. And I remembered figuring out the answer.

The answer wasn't a new discipline strategy or lesson. The answer was that this sweet (usually) little boy needed some one-on-one time with his mommy. A month ago. A month ago, I knew Camden and I needed to have some time. But it didn't happen. Life got in the way. There were basketball games and homework and errands. Dan was gone most of the last month. Then there was snow. It was fun to have the boys home for the snow days, but that wasn't very conducive to "one-on-one" time. And then it was Christmas. Wonderful family time. We loved every minute of it. But Camden and Mommy? No, that didn't happen.

And here we are, a full month later. Has our problem resolved? No. It's just gotten so much worse. Has the solution changed? No. It's just gotten so much more important.

Tomorrow, instead of the photo editing I really need to be doing, I'll be stealing away with my younger son. Because I'm finally figuring out what I thought I already knew. What my children need from me is my time and attention. And it's high time this one gets it.

Real Quick

2011-01-03T13:53:00.004-05:00

Ten years ago (last Thursday), I married a pretty great guy.

He's handsome and funny and smart and he works hard and he takes good care of me. I like him a little bit (or maybe a lot).

For our anniversary he took me away from the children. For two days. (Did I mention I like him a lot?)

We went to see The Lion King. Stunning. And gorgeous. And beautiful.

We went to Williamsburg. Last time we were there it was our honeymoon. (Go ahead, you know you want to make that "awww" face.)

We ate yummy food. Italian (my favorite) instead of sushi, because he loves me.

We realized that ten years ago we had no children. Now we have a six-year-old and an eight-year-old. In ten more years we'll have a junior and a senior in high school. Oh goodness.

Well, as long as we're doing it together, bring it on!

Oh, and will somebody please come take a picture of us together? This is getting kind of ridiculous.

It's All in the Timing

2010-12-28T12:35:00.004-05:00

On Christmas day, as we left Granny and Poppy's Christmas feast (on our way to Bubby and Poppa's Christmas feast), our sweet little minivan had a bit of trouble. I thought nothing of it, as I'd noticed this same shaking and bouncing several times before. But when Dan discovered the bouncing and shaking he was concerned. And when he discovered that this bouncing and shaking had been going on for some time - and while his wife and children were driving all over town... - well, he was more concerned. By bedtime that night, the decision had been made. Time for a new car. (In all honesty it was probably time for a new car several years ago. Maybe when we couldn't get over the mountain to Bob and Della's house. Or when the door fell off. Or when... you get the picture.)

We found a minivan that looked good and decided to go take a look on Monday.

Monday came, and we hopped in the car. We pulled into a neighbor's driveway to turn around. And we stopped. The car was dead. Not just a little dead. Dead dead. Hmmm. Perfect timing, don't you think?

We got the car out of the driveway and onto the street. Where is remains today.

And we headed off in Poppa's car to find a new one for us. We found it. And we bought it. Now we're broke. But happy.

The end.

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care...

2010-12-24T23:06:00.002-05:00

...Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!

If I could figure out how to post a video...

2010-12-23T07:39:00.003-05:00

...you'd be watching last night's entertainment. Two boys I know came up with dance moves to "Jingle Bells, Batman Smells." Complete with squatting to lay eggs and pirouettes when Joker takes ballet.

I like these people.

A Paradox

2010-12-18T13:26:00.003-05:00

My African dog loves nothing better than to frolick in the snow. Honestly, I will never understand her.

First Snow

2010-12-16T13:46:00.006-05:00

This morning, after a very late night of cutting about a million little squares of green tissue paper (for a project the first grade was planning to do today), I woke up, got myself and the boys ready for the day, and headed out with Jake for his orthodontist appointment. Sitting in the waiting room, we saw it on the tv: "Stafford County Schools Closed."

It was not snowing.

But, we'll take it! Got through the ortho appointment (wait six months to see if he loses some more of those baby teeth...) and headed home. Again, it was not snowing. By the time we turned onto our street - a whopping two minutes later - the snow was falling heavy and the ground was covered. I was nervous about our evil driveway. We made it into the garage and were greeted by Camden and Dan.

SNOW DAY!!!

L-O-V-I-N-G IT!!!

So far today...

We have inspected, arranged, and rearranged the Christmas gifts. A lot.

We have spent more than one hour watching the birds feast in the backyard. This fat cardinal has yet to get a bite. Doesn't fit on the feeder. But he's not giving up! The fat woodpecker torments the fat cardinal by showing off how he can cling to the bottom of the feeder - and the cardinal can't. The fat blue jay wants us all to believe he's above all that foolishness and only makes his attempts when he thinks nobody is looking. I'd like to say, "Mr. Cardinal, Mr. Jay can't do it either. He's just too prideful to let on." All the other little fatties (my favorite are the budgies and the titmice - so cute!) are doing very well for themselves. And yes, they are ALL fat - they definitely know where the suckers who will refill the feeder daily live.

We have played in the snow. We have then left the treat Ms. Gail gave us out in the snow while we enjoyed our hot chocolate (with lots of marshmallows, of course). We have discovered that the treat has dissapeared under more snow. We have gone out and dug for that treat, found it, and found out why Mommy kept saying we should be wearing a coat.

We are now reading Harry Potter, eating treats, and playing with legos.

It's a perfect day. Even if I didn't get to take advantage of the opportunity to sleep in!

Basketball

2010-12-11T21:05:00.005-05:00

I know sports. Really. You think I'm joking, but I'm not. I may be the last one you'll find actually playing sports, because I'm just not any good at them, but I know my stuff. I know how to play sports. I know how to throw, hit and catch a baseball; how to control a soccer ball; how to sack a quarterback, throw a football, and make a touchdown. I know the details and the rules of each game. I also know what is going on in the world of sports. Kobe, Landon, Ichiro, and Tom? Yeah, we're old pals. Tiger? Not so much. (I'm not so much into golf or infidelity.)

My sons think I'm pretty great.

Or, they used to.

Turns out, basketball's not my strong point. Sure, I can dribble a ball. I can follow a game - and thoroughly enjoy it. But when I'm watching my boy attempting to play on his first basketball team, and my other boy asks me, "What just happened, Mommy?" well, I don't have a clue.

Let's hope for a steep learning curve. For all of us.

Not Gonna Cut It

2010-12-07T13:36:00.005-05:00

I've taken over 15,000 photos so far this year. One would think I would have at least a few Christmas card worthy shots. One would be wrong.

Exibit A:

I love this picture. Truly. It's my favorite picture of the whole year. And by far the best one of us as a family in, well, forever. (Sad, I know. But true.) I hesitate to send it out as a Christmas card. For one thing, it may not be totally appropriate to be aiming a gun directly at our friends and loved ones, even if it is bright orange and plastic. For another thing, I feel the need to accompany a picture of four pirates with a witty caption. And I've got no witty caption.

Exibit B:

Another family photo (one of two this year). I do love it. But really, would you send this out as your Christmas card? Yeah, I didn't think so. As cute as Jake looks with mad scientist hair, and as stunning as I am as Word Girl, hmmm. Dan does make a good evil villain, and Cam fits right in as the superhero monkey. But, no. Just not gonna happen.

So you see my dilemma. Out of 15,000 photos, I have exactly ZERO to use for the Christmas card. Oops.

Yesterday...

2010-12-06T12:18:00.004-05:00

Jake was baptized and confirmed a member of
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Eight

2010-12-01T11:34:00.004-05:00

Last night, as I stood staring at my little boy asleep in the top bunk, a tear (or two...) came to my eye. It was the last time I would look at my seven-year-old. Because this morning, when we woke up, he was eight.

Eight is a really big deal. We believe it is the age of accountability, when a child is no longer completely dependent on mom and dad to make every decision, but can start to make some of those decisions on his own. He will now be accountable for the choices he makes.

While there is obviously a lot of teaching and guiding left to do - and many years to continue doing it - it's pretty important that by age eight a child has a basic knowledge of right and wrong and of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

As I looked at my baby lying there in bed, I questioned whether I've taught him what he needs to know by this point. Does he know how much his Savior loves him? Does he know what He has asked of him? And how to follow Him? Is he ready to take on the consequences of his actions? Is he ready to make promises to his Heavenly Father? And to keep them?

As I looked at my baby lying there in bed, I knew that he is ready. (I may not be, but he is!) He is a good boy. He knows his Savior. He knows the commandments and he knows where (and who) to look for the way to follow Him. He wants to do right. And really, what more can there be?

I love this little boy. He drives me nuts and he makes my heart sing. He is brilliant. He is funny. He is kind and compassionate. And honest. He is an artist. He is a writer and a story teller. He is thoughtful. He is loud. He is an athlete. He is my first-born, my little boy. And I can't imagine life without him.

Thanks for being born, Jake. You're going to do great at being eight!

Why I Love Soccer

2010-11-22T10:15:00.006-05:00

We've come to the end of another soccer season. And we still love it. More than ever.

Soccer gets my kids out and running. Hard.

Soccer gives them just enough of a competetive outlet - without getting too competitive. Actually, this is all thanks to the coach. We really like Coach Bruce.

Soccer has given us some of our favorite friends. And the bonds between these boys (and their parents) has gotten stronger with each season.

Most of all, soccer is fun! (Especially when you win. Which isn't technically possible since at the U8 level they don't keep score. Technically.)

During soccer season, the sport consumes a lot of our time. But now the trophies are on the shelf and it's time to unwind and enjoy the holidays.

Except that basketball season started the day soccer season ended...

A Little Disagreement

2010-10-21T12:12:00.003-04:00

My children think I take too many pictures.
They're wrong.

Setting the Record Straight

2010-10-20T09:10:00.003-04:00

I just want everyone to understand that life around here isn't all fun and games. Take our little Jamestown adventure, for instance. Sure, we had a blast at some neat historical sites. But we did something else, too. We forced our poor children, who would have been perfectly happy to stay forever in the Powatan Village, to walk away from the job of grinding cornmeal (we'd been pounding that corn for a while, don't let them tell you any differently) and dragged them to... a water park. Meanies.

Have you ever hurtled down and through a funnel with your seven-year-old? Or laughed as your six-year-old wiped out while catching a wave?
I have.
And I highly recommend it.

Wrong Turn?

2010-10-19T12:44:00.011-04:00

A couple weeks ago (it was a Thursday), we all piled in the car to drop the boys off at school. But Daddy took a wrong turn and got lost! By the time we "realized" the problem, it was too late to get to school on time... so we decided to just continue on our drive. A few hours later, we arrived at Jamestown. We figured that was as good a place as any to spend a hookie-day.

The boys thought this was the greatest day of their lives.

My boys studied nautical navigation. They learned all about reading a compass and charting their direction and speed - early 17th century style. I spent my time on the ships deciding that I would have stayed in England. It may have been stinky and crowded there, but it was way stinkier and more crowded on those tiny little boats!

Once we arrived at James Fort, we geared yp for guard duty...

...and checked out the "cannon holes." (What do you call those things?)

Finally, we were put to work building a canoe. This was, by far, Camden's favorite activity of the entire day. Jake and Dan much prefered the musket demonstration, and went back to watch it again while Cam and I remained at the canoe site. For a long time. Then it was off to a cabin to sweep the floor. Cam stayed there a long time, too. Yes, he is a little odd. But those colonists would have loved his work ethic!

The next day (Yep, that's right. We played hookie two days in a row!) at Yorktown, we had another navigation and map reading lesson. This time we learned about troop movements.

Jake really likes troop movements.

And Camden really likes turkeys.

By the way, if you've ever met our Mayo, then you already know what this wierdo turkey was like. Could have been Mayo's long-lost twin.

We had a blast learning about our country's earliest beginings. Good thing Daddy missed that turn. And Mommy just happened to have clothes and toothbrushes packed in the back of the car... :)

All is Right in Camden's World

2010-10-17T15:01:00.004-04:00

Camden has two great loves: Gardening and Organizing.
When he can combine his passions, well, that's when Camden is a very happy boy.

And yes, he is in fact cleaning his pumpkins with baby wipes.

No Explanation Required

2010-10-09T16:37:00.003-04:00

Back in the Saddle

2010-10-06T11:43:00.012-04:00

A few days ago I got a sweet message on my facebook wall. It was from my mom and it said, "Clark and I are both having serious Nugget withdrawal. Need a fix. please?" Aw. I thought, they miss me! They want to see me! And then I realized they don't miss me. They miss this silly blog. I'm still not sure how I feel about that.

But, since I am nothing if not obediant (right, Mom? Actually, don't answer that), I'd like to extend a sincere and heartfelt apology for neglecting The Nugget for the past month. I have no excuse. I am deeply ashamed. Can you ever forgive me? (Okay, that was all way over-dramatic, but then, I am nothing if not over-dramatic (this time my mom's answer would be a resounding "yes" - just so you know).

Now that I'm back, I figure I'll share a collection of my thoughts on September. Or from September. Or, whatever.

1. When planting a fake spider to scare your mom, it's best to put it in an obvious spot that you know she will look at. Because if it's right at her eye level, she probably won't notice it right away and it will be even scarier when she realizes that spider was right there all along. Thank you, Camden, for teaching us all this valuable lesson.

2. I love my boys for the people they are. I will not live vicariously through them or force them to do things just because I think they are cool. That being said, I really hope they have a band when they are in middle school. Because middle school boy bands are just about the cutest things ever. Seriously.

3. A certain six-year-old who lives in my home recently discovered he has two balls that he didn't know about before. He was concered that there were balls stuck inside there, but we had a little anatomy discussion and everything seems hunky-dory once again. And that's all I'm going to say about that.

4. We've decided to stock up on smoked salmon and spend the winter in the blanket fort we constructed in our family room. It's really cozy and we like it. Only problem is that the majority of the family will most likely die of starvation. Smoked salmon is some pretty nasty stuff.

5.Several years ago, I was watching a US soccer game (on TV - I'm not cool enough to actually go to a game) when I heard the coach tyelling from the sidelines, "Keep running, Clint!" Probably my all-time favorite soccer moment. Especially since I now have two boys who, although they are both very skilled at the sport, have a bit of a laziness problem. Thanks to Clint Dempsey, at least I know they can still make it to the pros. We're loving this soccer season and I'll get around to writing more about it soon.

6. In a conversation with a friend about Sunday-appropriate tv, I found myself saying, "We let them watch church videos and Redskins games." She laughed at me. She obviously is not a Skins fan, because if she was, she would totally understand.

7. Dan's been spending a lot of time in paradise. Only he doesn't think it's so great. That's probably because he spends all his time there stuck in an office staring at a computer screen. Let me tell you, that's not what I'd be doing in paradise. Silly Dan.

8. Remember our pumpkin patch? The one that took over the front yard? Well, we've got lots of pumpkins now. I'm kind of in love with them. And I feel all superior when I pass by the pumpkins at the supermarket. Because I grew my own. So there, supermarket pumpkins!

9. Dan packed up the x-box. And I've never loved him more than I did at that moment. The boys were screaming, wailing, and gnashing their teeth. Dan was silently fuming and putting away the games. And I was falling in love all over again. Already, there have been fewer boy altercations. It's wonderful.

10. A direct result of the packing-up of the x-box was Jake's attempt at running away. Wearing his pajamas and socks - but no shoes - and carrying his pillow, a sheet, and four stuffed animals, the boy set off into the great big world. He made it all the way off the porch before he had to stop to decide which direction to go. And that pause was enough to allow the enormity of his decision to creep in. We spent some time on the front steps and eventually came back in to watch the Redskins game. It was a Sunday, after all.

A Conversation

2010-09-11T16:30:00.003-04:00

Jen: "I'm really good at making cookies."
Dan: "Yep. And I'm really good at eating cookies."
Jen: "That's why we're perfect for each other."
Dan: "Yep."

Yeah, I think that about sums it up.

No Matter What

2010-09-07T22:17:00.004-04:00

It seems that, no matter what I do, these children just keep growing up.

I've got First- and Second-Gators on my hands.

And they're pretty great.

This Week ...

2010-09-03T08:20:00.002-04:00

... we did a lot of this.

Last week...

2010-09-02T13:44:00.003-04:00

...we rode the Metro.

...we hung out with Poppa.

...we saw real honest-to-goodness space shuttles.

...we made new friends...

...of various species.

I'm Old

2010-08-29T07:11:00.006-04:00

See the little girl in the center there? The one my baby Jake is looking up at so adoringly? She's Kasey. And the other day I took her senior pictures.

That's right, she's not ten anymore. She's seventeen. And me? I'm old.

More shots from Kasey's shoot here.

Proof

2010-08-24T23:19:00.003-04:00

Indisputable proof that my boys do, in fact, love each other very much. You better believe this is coming out next time they start to fight.

The Great Experiment

2010-08-21T10:50:00.004-04:00

We've been working hard on fixing up our front yard, which is a pretty steep hill. It used to be a mass of weeds, dead ground cover, and more weeds. Really attractive. Our neighbors justloved us. (In our defense, it was like that when we moved in. And it only took us two and a half years to do something about it...)

We put in stone walls to create a terraced rise on the hill and decided to plant ivy as a ground cover on the lowest level, azaleas and a flower garden on the middle tier, and... well, we are still deciding what to do with the top, which rises a bit to the rest of our grassy front yard.

Over the Fourth of July weekend, I planted over 150 baby ivies. I love them. And someday they will grow to be big grown-up ivies. Did I mention I love them?

While I planted each individual baby ivy, Dan was working on the tier just above me, planting the baby azaleas. He loves them. Today, when he discovered some buds on them - a year before we expected any flowers - well, let's just say he was pretty excited.

And the top... I bought a packet of pumpkin seeds a couple years ago, but we never planted them. So we figured, hey, let's just see what happens! The boys planted six seeds straight across the top of the hill...

... they grew.

We are, again, the talk of the neighborhood.

We're planning on buying back the neighborly love with pumpkins come fall. But this one - our first-born - is ours.

Guess What!

2010-08-19T18:41:00.003-04:00

All of my family is on US soil!

My dad and my brother both arrived safely back in the US today!

For the first time in almost two years,

all my men are here in the good ol' US of A!

At the same time!

And I'm pretty happy about it!

Thanks Poppa!

2010-08-17T22:12:00.004-04:00

My boys went to a Nats game...

... and all I got was this picture of a sidewalk.

But the happy faces I saw when they got home more than made up for the lack of photos. They met a few presidents (of the big-headed, racing variety), ate hotdogs and cotton candy, and saw several home runs.

And best of all... they got to see Strasburg (the Nationals' new wonder-boy) pitch. And... the right team won!

Summer Swimmin'

2010-08-12T10:52:00.003-04:00

Summer swimmin' had us a blast;

Summer swimmin' went by so fast.

I had two boys, crazy for laps;

I had two boys, never took naps.

Summer days practicin' away;

To uh-oh those summer night meets!

They swam by me, never got cramps;

They swam daily, kept their suits damp.

They're great swimmers, not gonna drown;

They show off, splashing around.

Summer sun, pool's lots of fun;

But uh-oh those summer night meets!

It's not yet colder, but here's where it ends;

So I told them, we'd still be friends.

Then we made our coach a vow;

Next year she's gonna say wow.

Summer dreams, all 'bout the team;

But uh-oh those summer night meets!

This summer was Jake's first time on the swim team and he LOVED every minute of it! We're so proud of all his hard work! He practiced hard, learned a lot, and can beat me in a race any day of the week!

Camden continued lessons this year, in preparation for his team debut next summer. After a rough start last year (he repeated the same level through all four sessions of summer swim), he blew us all away with his determination and progress this year.

Way to go Wahoos!

Lest you believe I play favorites...

2010-08-10T00:45:00.006-04:00

I'll have you know that my boys' fits aren't the only ones I photograph. You, too, can be added to my fit collection. That is, if you can measure up.