Christmas traditions

As an absolute Christmas Nut, I find it hard not to jamb Christmas and everything associated with it down my families throats. No excuses, that is just what makes me happy. I realize others don't have my zeal and find it hard to change the TV channel from a Christmas theme of good will and best wishes to some show the kidletts have seen more than 50 times about a "dragon fly band parade" or something like that. Though these shows have decent enough themes, the monotony they pose is that they are year round compared to the four week Christmas blitz. MHM does enjoy Max and Ruby, a somewhat innocuous show with its roots in the 40's and 50's with easy listening music and messages that still seem gender specific.

Part of my childhood memories recall taking naps under the Christmas tree, staring up at the shadow of false pine bows from the lights on the wall and ceiling and peacefully drifting off to sleep. One huge part of Christmas for me was the listening to "Scrooge" from a recording my mom got back in the late 40's. It is the best theatrical recording with lots of staged sounds and dramatic music.

As tradition for as many years as I can possibly remember, this year we ate our Christmas feast, let the kidletts run amok for a bit then corralled everyone into the living room, dimmed the lights and turned on Scrooge. The kids did seem to understand somewhat that the group gathered was trying to listen to the story but were understandably more interested in anything else. MHM was listening to the recording though because after the second stave, he picked up on the fact that it had something to do with ghosts. One of the Max and Ruby shows around Halloween had an episode with a Ghost Bunny scaring he and his sister that of course turned out to be Grandma Bunny who apparently is the parental figure in the series. Well, anyway, MHM picked up on the dire mood of Scrooge and decided he needed to warn everyone in the room about Ghost Bunny. He would toddle through the living room strewn with bodies lying on the floor or slouched in chairs telling every there was a "Ghost Bunny" on the loose. GPa did once he understood get a kick out of it and everyone quietly giggled so as not to interrupt any ones enjoyment of this holiday tradition.

Though it seems to change a bit each year, I am so happy that it is still possible to have this on going memory maker.

Merry Christmas!

Music

My lovely bride challenged me early on in our dating to sing her a song. I really didn't know what to do about that at the time feeling self conscious and embarrassed. I certainly was a closet singer when know one was looking but was not sure how to actually do it one on one. I assured her that in time I would do it for her. For several weeks I agonized about how to do this. I had a couple of tunes in mind from either James Taylor or Jimmy Buffett. I don't know if those two enjoy being lumped into my preferences together but somehow I don't think they would mind.

Well, unless I have forgotten totally, James won out and one evening while lounging on the couch, I sang to her. The song I don't exactly remember but I think I can narrow it to just a few. It was liberating and felt so good and maybe a reason she stuck it out with me.

M and her sister P sure knew the value of song. I can't even imagine how many fun songs I have learned since meeting M. Now it is fun to listen to our own household with E always belting out some tune or another. I now freely sing goofy songs while we jog "We're going to the Park" and any other number of generic tunes to which we throw in some words befitting the moment. MHM sometimes as I do, gets tired of some of the singing and says "No singing, no singing!" Too much of a good thing can sometimes be tiresome.

All in all though, it is nice to hear and music being plunked out on the piano or just the humming of a tune in the background. M had a good role model in her siter P and I am sure we both hope songs will gush forth to make P and us happy forever.

Halloween 09

With a very dreary late September and most of October, we were grateful for a dry though cool and breezy Halloween. E was very happy to repeat last years Butterfly costume with of course some new enhancements. MHM we figured was still too young to care what he wore, so we stuck him in a Tigger sweatshirt that E had worn her second year out.

We went across the street to the Witch house where E got "boiled worms". The witch has been at it many years and is a neighborhood mainstay, a real do not miss. We roped Gpa in early to help us give out candy so we could both with the kids. Gma was out and about eagerly after emergency surgery in early September. We got a wheel chair from church so she was ready, willing and able to share in the fun. We met Aunt L and K shortly after the witch house as planned and trekked around the immediate neighborhood loop. To begin with, there were many houses not participating and what seemed a low number of people out. The kids were certainly charming though and had to have one of the best nights of their lives. M and I both had warm cups of spiced wine and took turns with the kids and Gma. The second half of our trek seemed a bit more lively with some really great costumes and nicely decorated homes. MHM started to hit the skids and was showing the effects of being cold but the excitement and my frequent promises that we would be home soon allowed us to make the loop. The loot was plentiful and I was surprised (not so much) that it actually took us one and a half hours to go maybe a tick more than half a mile.

Gpa said he had a nice time and equally noticed a slow first hour. For the last half hour, E was excited to go to the door to greet other Treaters and ask their names. Both kids just ran and bounced off the walls for a time then we settled them down around nine pm or so as it was the eve of Day Light Saving time so we would theoretically have an extra hour of sleep except for the fact that these kids don't get fooled by such things a clocks and where they happen to be set...

All in all a very nice weekend as Sunday was warm and we were able to go in the back yard to do some work while MHM and E played for what is likely one of the last for this Autumn.

Fortunate me

A good friends mom once stopped me mid sentence and said "there is no such thing as luck, there is only fortune. Some of it good and some of it bad."

Anyway, I feel fortunate for many things even amidst many things that seem to be raining down about me.

My bride recently revived something very heart felt she had written to a famous person in hopes of getting a minute of fame for the both of us. She had expressed why I mattered to her and I want to let her know that I still have the thought of calling to alert her to some natural phenomenon but with her having the kidlets in tow, I think differently and don't always. I DO LOVE YOU!

My bride also pointed out to me how fortunate I am to have an extremely handsome son who loves me with all his being. That is a very nice feeling and as many times you hear it, I hope and pray that I am a good dad worthy of such adoration.....

I have a fantastic daughter who astounds us daily with her perception and grasp of all things life. She is just sooo.... I don't know how to really relate it but to say, WOW!

And in times sake, I will end with one of my favorite fortunes. I am fortunate to have a bride who is an enthusiastic cook who gets her own reward of relaxation from cooking me meals prepared with love.

Sincerely;

Fortunate me

Enchanted

Last Saturday I went to the park with E in the jogger. Before we left, she said she wanted to pretend when we got there that she was a Princess and I was a King. So I started to ask her what kind of adventures we were going to have and what her name might be as a Princess.

E; "not yet daddy, when we get there."
Me; "OK E, then why don't you think of a good name while were on our way."


The day was nice, sunny and a bit breezy but perfect for running and playing. I thought a bit about what kinds of thing I could do to play up the part.


When we arrived I inquired as to how I might address her.

Me; "So miss E, what is the name of my lovely princess?"
E; "Princess Kavaza" was her enthusiastic reply.
Me; "Well Princess Kavaza, what shall we do first?

What followed was close to an hour of formal speaking such as Yon, Thusly, Fair Maiden, Princess and the like. Princess Kavaza really took a leap of confidence in climbing every obstacle available and having a wonderful time. It was a magical day both with weather and playfulness and I pray for many more to come.

Expressions

So MHM is quite a funny little guy. He is very expressive with certain words and body language.

First, he loves to shrug his shoulders when asked a question as to the whereabouts of Lamby, his chuchie or about any car-car. "I-have-knowidea" is the latest conjunction for him as it comes forth as almost single syllable word with his shoulders up, a slight tilt of the head and his hands both palms up. This is funny sight to behold and begs the question of... Where did he ever get that?" I have know idea!...

and B, grunts have really taken on a new level with him. It started out pretty much with noticing Car-cars and has grown to a very expressive "Oh Yeahhhh" when asked if he enjoys something. He uses a very low almost guttural tone to put this forth and sounds not unlike Tim Allen when describing His love for all things mechanical.

With his little ways, I have in my mind fast forwarded him, and see him as a person who will be able to command a room with his smile, looks and good nature. God bless him.

Both kids are amazing and it is so much fun to see day by day their interactions becoming more comparable as MHM grows and E accepts that she is the one who will for all eternity be his big sister, the one who will have to give the most at least for the time being.

Happy Birthday M

Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you!

I just want you to know I really do realize how much you do for our family. I want you to know I am very happy with the meals you prepare, Yum! and I want you to know that I am so happy that you seem to know how to make our kids happy. There are so may times I realize I should be telling you that you've done a nice job and such but it doesn't always come out. I know what a great teacher you are and you can't hide it when two former students found each other because of your passion for your work. I am also proud that you have gone in yet another direction but of course to help others who are facing a most certain loss. It really looked like a very nice bio you did for your guy and now, I I think you see the value I have been getting for quite a few years myself.

There are so many things I could continue on with and I am happy to have such a varied list of things we do for fun, I love you.

I hope your birthday is nice, and that your shower is warm!

All my love to you

M

Bon-appetite

In week two of our "Biggest Looser" contest, I only barely lost 1 pound after 5 pounds the week prior. It is after all not easy just with diet. Anyway, our fridge is packed with lots of veggies and M is just creatin' lots of yummy salads and my favorite... salsa and baked pita chips which are heaven. Over our anniversary weekend, we went to the chick flick "Julie and Julia", a parallel story of old Julia Child and a woman in N.Y. who needed an outlet from work. The story was nice but the food looked awesome and you could almost smell it. There was a scene before the girlie even started looking at Julia's stuff where she presented her husband with a simple buttery crusty bread with a tomato vegetable concoction on top. Now that's what I'm talkin' bout!!!

Well, my mouth watered as well as M's and now it has been discussed that the single most important dish of the film is now M's quest, boeuf bourguignon. It may take some time to put into action but three things I know for sure are...

1. It sucks to be on a diet even though the pain is worth the desired outcome.
2 I can't wait to be off this diet to pig out on all the stuff I've seen that has made my mouth water for more than two weeks.
3. I am sooo fortunate to have M who so does enjoy the "Art of Cooking"

Funny.... Kinda

So as a five year veteran of marriage, I've made enough blunders to date. This being our 5th anniversary, I was prepared a week early to make sure I was on time. I had small gift idea and checked the Internet to make sure of availability BUT never followed through as I thought I had time. Well as life will allow, I made it to this morning without a gift or card albeit with good intent to do so earlier. I made a deal and took E with me shopping as we needed some staples anyway to go get the gift idea I had a week earlier. The trip was fine but I was a bit distracted by the myriad of pleas to buy this and that and looking a dejected face as she understood that she wouldn't get any of it.

Trip successful on all accounts including the "Pony" ride on Sandy the 1 cent ride a Meijer. I was proud of E as she allowed me to leave a cent behind for some other little girl whose father didn't have one. She had a good feeling as well.

Now home, I dropped E in the lap of M and made a b-line for the office to complete a card I had been working on in my mind. Still a bit stressed over my lateness, I did a miscalculation in the Roman numbering system and added a year to my witty card design. I thought it was quite clever but as I was doing it, I had a sense that something was amiss.

M went for a quick errand so I finished wrapping her gift and set it on the table for her return. She was pleasantly happy with the card and the present (Mommywood, a book by Tori Spelling) and we set out to keep the kids entertained.

About 20 minutes after the giving, she popped her head out the back door to say something like she will pull this card out for reference next year as she had finally found the mistake that I felt was there somewhere. I had thought this out and went over it in my mind well enough to convince myself that the correct Roman numeral for five was VI. Oooooppsss! Anyway, we both chuckled about it and I am sure this will not by any stretch of the imagination be the last time for an unintended error, and that is a good thing because God knows, we / I need to laugh more and who better to laugh with than my Bride of V years.

Love you M

In Slo-Mo

Traveling the other day with the family, we were in JFK air port and of course a bathroom trip was necessary. M had E and I had MHM. After changing him I had to go so he was balanced on my hip as securely as possible. I found a ledge for the carry-on so I proceeded.

Mind you, our wonderful 1.5 yr old still has his Chuchi and needs it for calming. These chuchies are ever disappearing and on vacation we just had a couple and couldn't afford to loose one. So he had it in his mouth as I was in mid-stream it happened...

He whipped his head abruptly from left to right and I saw it happen in super slow motion. He let go of the chuchi and it arced through the air. Fearing the loss of a necessary piece of equipment, with my NOW free hand tried to grab it. Now parts of me were now unrestrained but the fear of losing this was greater than the worry of what might happen. There was a moment where I thought I had as complete success as possible for the situation but then it passed as the chuchi deflected off my hand and continued on an altered course. At that moment, I felt a sense of loss and failure. Then I was remotely aware that I had now gotten moist from untold motion and figured that it would blend with the juice that only minutes ago flowed freely from E's sippy cup. After a valiant try, the chuchi did at least come to rest on the top edge of the urinal stopping most quickly behind the fill pipe. It looked moderately clean so I was as happy as possible for the moment. I gathered my composure and finished my business. I quickly washed my hands and doused the chuchi with copious amounts of soap, stuck it in the carry-on and retrieved the back-up from my pocket and went on my way to the boarding gate with not a mention to M as I decided that I Must write about this....

Done.

Independence Day

Both E and MHM are sure trying to assert their independence of late. E is growing quickly and becoming quite a little lady. She is trying to help with MHM but really wants to have a say in what is happening about her. MHM is just budding everyday a bit more. He is talking more and communicating quite well. NoooWaaay! or NO! or Okay! these are his favorites for now but he is putting lots of words together and certainly knows what he wants when asked a question.



July 4th was somewhat typical this year for us. M, E, MHM and I went up what I thought was early on Thursday but found out that everyone else also had Friday off. As I have been a government worker for now 11 weeks now and for the foreseeable future, I had some extra time on my hands. Well anyway, we went up after the kiddies got out of school. After dinner, the car was loaded and I was wishing for a quick change in the weather. Thursday was as fore casted though I was hopeful for better. As we drove north, the temperature dropped and upon arriving at the cottage, I had to turn the heat on. The kids were wound up and it was difficult to get them settled down. I am sure that this is the first time being there really registered with him as he is now mobile and just loves toolin' around somewhere new. With the kids finally down, M and i watched a bit of TV and had some drinks to relax. It was nice to be there.


Friday morning started cold, breezy and mostly cloudy. The expected sunshine would have to wait for most of the day to arrive. I wanted to go get do-do's with one of the kids. M suggested E so we set off. E wanted to walk so we did. We got to TOP's and she lit up when faced with all the delicious varieties. We chose 6 and started for home. They were well received by MHM and E of course had to have hers on the way home.


After Breakfast, M and E went to the Craft fair while MHM napped. E got some neat stuff and a promise if she was well behaved that she could get some doll clothes for DeeDee the next day. After lunch GPa and GMa came so we played around the house then M made a nice Nacho dinner. We had noticed a sign on C.R. 400 that the local Fireworks were to be Friday night so we made sure the kids were rested and fed well before going to D & W's for the big show. By 7pm, the weather had changed and it was indeed a glorious evening. We got to D & W's after 9 and enjoyed their company. The kids were running around all crazy, MHM with his new Light Sabre and E with all kinds of kid energy. A bit later B & A showed up with A's family so there were lots of kids and it was a really fun time. The Fireworks were great and the mosquitoes weren't too bad.


Saturday the 4th was a very nice day as well. I did get MHM out for a 4 mile run in the morning while M and E went back as promised for the doll clothes. M had purchased some party supplies so we had some nice decorations for the porch to make it a bit more festive. We had burgers and Hot dogs and later we had a bon fire with GMa, GPa and some of D.P's family. All in all it was a nice day.

Sunday we went to St. James for church for a last minute decision as O.L.O.L. had a different schedule. Upon returning, I took MHM again for a run which he really seems to enjoy. M and E did a craft of chocolate making and GPa worked with a nice guy on the old car to get it running. Finally in the afternoon, it was running so B went for a couple rides. We had a visit from D & W and after all was finished, finally got a ride with E in the old car as far as the cemetery when it quit. J was a bit uneasy with the situation but E and L were in the back seat just giggling up a storm. A came with a vehicle so we towed it home and that more or less ended the weekend. We stayed up until Monday morning then headed back to Lansing where I could resume my government work.

In the Sweet Old Summertime

Here it is July 6th and so far it has been a very cold Spring and Summer. A week or so ago, in a moment without KID TV, I was flipping the channels and happened across an old film with Judy Garland. The name caught my attention so I thought I'd see what it was about. It was a comedy but unfortunately I didn't have time to really watch it.

It seems though that summer has finally come to us in Michigan. Glen Lake this year was very nice. the weather literally on either side of our week was poopy so we were truly blessed with great weather. This year, M, E, MHM and I stayed in a single cabin on the grounds. The kids have some difficulty sleeping so we really didn't want to be a burden on others. The cabin was quaint and probably not up to the standards of many people. As first I looked at it, I wrinkled my nose but then rationalized that had we been in another state on our own for vacation, I would have thought it charming and cozy. The difference is that the rest of the family were in the familiar newer, cleaner and modern units. It really turned out just fine and we never did see any bugs that would not have been in any of the other units. We had fun but are assuredly looking for the larger unit next year. Cozy it certainly was!

The week included many hours on the beach and in the water. The kids loved the sand and by week end, could not be dragged from the water. The kids had so much fun playing with their friends with so many things to do. I tried several times to get E out on either a kayak or paddle boat but no going. Thankfully she loved uncle S's boat and both she and MHM got out back with me on the tube and went for a ride. One morning, we headed to Glen Haven to the beach there for some rock hunting and of course sand castles. We were able to bury cousin J up to his neck with GMa's help and had a very nice time. Another morning we endeavoured to go to the Dune Climb. I went up with MHM to over the first big hump but he seemed to want to go so I turned around to see what M and E were up to. E decided she didn't want to play anywhere other than the base of the dune so we did that for a bit then headed to the shade for a picnic. Uncle B, GMa, J and L did a bit more hiking but finally caught up with us on the Pierce Stocking drive where E was a bit more interested to play while MHM slept in the car. On Friday M and I got the kids ready early and were at the Putt Putt by 10 am. We figured this would be the best for us and it turned out very well. with a 1 1/2 and a 3yr old, we were happy to make it through the first nine holes mostly uninterrupted. After hole nine, we took a rest and ate some popcorn and MHM and I watched some pipe fitters work with an excavator putting in a sewage system, MHM loved all that! M and E played some games (mostly running and jumping) on the rest of the course and ultimately we all got to the end with good behavior by all.

M was very nice to me and helped me get away for 3 1/2 hrs to do the kayak trip down the Crystal river which was certainly a highlight for me. I was able to get out for one and maybe two runs with MHM, (I don't quite remember) and also took E souvenir shopping where I got them both a hat and a sign for their bedroom door and E got an outdoor throwing toy at my gentle urging.

The evenings were nice with someone else on duty for dinner each night. They were all fabulous meals and the deserts even better. Several times, M broke out some craft stuff to keep the kids busy and I believe all activities went over well. As I am sure some of the moms and myself included, thank you for doing it M!

Next topics are 4th of July then Maine....

Yeah!

Catching up

It certainly feels better when I feel I have something to say. Im pretty sure though that I have missed many opportunities to share fun and nice things of my family. Well, MHM and E are growing more each day and it is hard to pay attention to the things that slowly disappear from their actions but easier to notice new kidisms as they appear. It is also so hard to just pay attention to your loved ones when as we know that every time we breathe is a precious miracle. M is having a quick medical proceedure done today and I slept while she readied for it. It makes me wonder how many opportunities we may all have left?

Well, enough of that. As I ready the kids for school, I wish I had the chance to walk with them every day. I believe it is a nice chance to be together albeit for 20 or so minutes but we get to talk about what we see and about the weather of the day or maybe what we are looking forward to. It is also nice to stop and say a morning prayer to the Mother Mary.

In the next few weeks, I hope to have some time to discuss two very important vacations. First comes Glen Lake, then Uncle Ed's in Maine. Both of these should be nice in two spectacular locations. I am wishing for warm weather soon which should enhance both. It has been a bit cold lately so we.....

So there ya go, MHM has just stepped up to a new phase. while readying his cinnamon toast sticks, he clambered up onto E's normal chair and that is where he ate his breakfast. Oh how time slides by. Don't forget to enjoy each moment!

Helping hands

This morning, up a bit early with MHM, I was trying to be quiet as to not wake any others. COFFEE! This was going to be necessary at 6am so I had a video in for MHM to my and headed for the kitchen. I poured the beans and commenced to grinding. To my delight MHM came running with hands up in the air to "help" do the "coffee dance".

MHM has only done this a few times as he seemed a bit afraid of it but I guess he must be a little more fearless in his old age. It does make me happy that my silly little antics which make me happy can be shared by the kids and hopefully make them more adventuresome to do their own goofy things in life and not be embarrassed. I guess though that I should keep things like the coffee dance in our own home lest someone think I'm any stranger than I am already!

Here it comes

Spring is officially here and I can't wait for the temps to moderate. With the sun up later, it is becoming increasingly difficult to put the kiddies down for bed as they are growing up anyway.

As MHM grows and is now much more aware of what others are doing in the house, it is sometimes sad to see his reaction when someone heads for the door without inviting him. He will get a very sad look on his face and scramble to look for his coat. If he finds it, he will come charging at you with it in hand and just break your heart. He is cute and apparently likes the outdoors. I am hopeful for lots of time in he yard this spring and summer. E loves to go out as well which is good. I can see that somehow I will probably have to build a sand box as that is the first order of business when in the back yard. I'll maybe try to have GPa help in this but i should get crackin'.

Spring is here and I need to get a big list put together or it may be that nothing gets done... Gimme some motivation!

Tell someone who cares

Of late, we have had a lot of things that any family with kids knows is just part of having little sprouts. This is no help when after sleepless (interrupted) nights and more than an earful of whining and screaming. This once again is most likely no surprise to parents. It just seems as though that our lot of late is a bit heavy. I know that telling any parent really garners no sympathy and I am sure that they probably look upon the stories as whining in themselves. Sorry!!!!

So I guess what I am trying to do is say enough is enough. I know it can always be worse but it seems as though everything of late is quite an operation and we are ready for it to slow down and get better. It is odd though, as I look at it and try to be objective, it really is not all that much but we just want to have a little normalcy and a moment to ourselves to use two free movie tickets...

Whaaaaa!

(sorry M if this doesn't fit for you)

The importance of being Lamby

For a few months now, I would say that MHM now has a dependency on his little partially stuffed lamb. This lamb was given by family friends and we more or less at that time were forcing it on him looking for him to create a comfort bond. Mission accomplished! MHM now had a dependency on this lamb as though it were an illicit drug.

Lamby has several adventures from spending the night in the public library parking lot and getting run over to as of late trying to stay behind at day care to maybe do after hours cleaning??? Well anyway the short and simple of it is that now this little lamb has an integral part in MHM's life. The comfort is there and the friendship too. Lamby goes almost every where MHM goes.

This friendship has created all out frantic searches for Lamby as bed time approaches. It is always quite amazing where Lamby will turn up next. Under beds, behind easels, in E's room and every once in a while down in the basement. As time has progressed, the proximity of Lamby and MHM has a direct correlation on how M and I will rest for the evening. On a night when Lamby eluded us and spent the night at "School", we tried a substitute Lamby (well worn and flattened hippo) to know avail. After that attempt, a dish rag was tried. On any given day, he likes to carry around dish rags but given bed time and being handed this in stead of Lamby, he just gave it a quick glance and tossed it aside very matter of factly as if asking "Who are you trying to fool??". Needless to say, the evening was rough for M and I.

We have our work cut out for us keeping Lamby alive and well. He gets quite a bit of abuse but now it is known that Lamby msut survive for all our sakes. No if ands or buts, there is no question of "the importance of being Lamby"!!

Shame

We have an Island kitchen with two entry / exit points. I listen carefully for plodding foot steps and try to go the other way (sometimes quickly) in order to get things accomplished about the house or to just get a moments rest from the kids. Through my own fault I am sure, I have made MHM especially crave being picked up when ever he sees me. Whether I am in the middle of something or not, he sees me and automatically he raises his arms in anticipation. When he is tired, hungry or just needy, he'll wobble toward you arms raised in an almost Frankensteinesque fashion.

Though this is cute to see, it just means I am in demand and sometimes that is just too much! I once again recognize that I mostly created this situation but hey, with something as darn stinkin' cute as MHM stalking you down, it is hard not to pick him up and gnaw on any available part of his body! It's especially great to hear a most wonderful giggle and laugh escape him as his neck is kissed and raspberried!

Well, this all adds to my SHAME that I actually run from and away from him through one of the available escape routs.

Shame, Shame, Shame!

His-story

Apparently my dad has for some time been writing his memoirs. I and M are very happy to get any and all history and nostalgic items we can. Well, in his spare time, my dad has recreated his childhood farm, the first house he and mom built in Mt Pleasant as well as the cottage at Houghton Lake (of which I am very nostalgic for myself and have hopes for my kids to have wonderful memories of) in miniature scale.. So far dad has written 80 plus pages and had recently went to Kinkos to make copies for each family. These pages are filled of his recollections of farm life and such. I haven't read any of it yet but am anticipating it. I remember "the farm" from a limited stand point as I was only very young when we were still able to visit there before Great Gma passed in 1976.

M has also been prodding questions from Gma pertaining to a book in which the author (Gma and Gpa) were supposed to write their answers to canned memory jogging questions themselves. Well, Gma has R.A. and writing is not really an option so it is great but will take a long time to get a full book full. Regardless, We really like family history and are determined to get as much as we can before there are the inevitable regret statements.

I guess for now, this blog will be the start of my memories of which I do hope to continue so that my kids don't have to bother me later to pry out old stories.

TUT & MHM

2009 TUT is here and gone. MHM was part of it for a second year and this year was more able to enjoy and be part of it. Though limited by his cold weather gear, which to borrow a movie sound bite "...he looked like a tick that might pop!" Accuracy of the quote might be questionable but the fact that MHM was double layered made his mobility mostly impossible.

I headed north Friday afternoon with Gma and MHM. M and E were staying home to do crafts, a sled race and more crafts.

It was blowy and snowy with the temperature expected to drop dramatically from the upper 20's to 0. With that knowledge, I was wondering whether we would be able to do TUT at all. After getting MHM settled in for the evening, I was ready for some relaxation. B, A and kids showed up shortly after MHM went down so we talked a bit and tried to get a plan for Saturday while talking to others on the phone. P and his son N came up from Fla. so it was certainly intended to meet up with him.

Saturday came beautifully though quite cold but the wind subsided so it looked as though going to the TUT site would work. With a high of maybe 12 or 13*F, it was still chilly. As seen above, I jammed MHM into some extra clothes and we headed out. He seemed quite content to stay in my arms but was pointing everywhere when he would see something that was interesting. When we found the group, he put his arms out for Uncle B and P to hold which lessened my fatigue. The site was abuzz and that is good as apparently the first w.e. was snowy, blowy and quite cold. This is not anything to complain about as this is what people seek when attending a Winter Carnival. I enjoyed walking the site and recognized many looks at my little guy. As handsome as he is, he deserves peoples full attention.

The highlights were taking him up the ladder to the ice slide then posing for a picture on the what I call the "Official" snow creation of TUT site. MHM was quite in awe of this giant being, I can only imagine what he thought of this guy.

All the excitement of the site really tired him out and he slept for nearly 3 hours when we got home, Yeah Me!

Upon waking, it was almost diner time so I fed him and we readied to go the closing firework show of TUT. We went on the ice to meet D, J and kids, P and son and of course B, A and kids. The show was quite a sight and I feel that MHM probably had the best angle view of it. After the show, the group was intent on heading to Elbow Lake Bar with every kid in tow. I of course did go home and put MHM down for the night. I ended up piling in with P and son for the drive. By the time we made it to the destination, N was sacked out and quite content and very certain that he would NOT get out of the car, so P and I ended up heading back to H.L. and parting ways for the w.e.

Sunday came early as MHM was restless from 2 am all the way until 11am. He was over tired and a bit cranky. We went to the 9:30am - 11am mass where I had to take MHM to the back as he was tired and fidgety. He was tired and crashed immediately upon getting in the car on the way home. As a result of this nap, I did however manage a 1 hour visit to D's nearby home to see what was up as of late. When getting home, MHM was soon to wake so he definitely did not get an adequate nap. After he awoke, I cleaned and packed a bit then took Gma over to some long time family friends and MHM and I went visiting to D & W's. MHM enjoyed the little doggies and little dog toys about the floor.

After picking up Gma, we went home and kicked it into high gear in order to get home to M and E. When we arrived home, M had a meal ready to sit down to and a short while latter, MHM was all in and ready for sleep. All in all the w.e. was very nice and enjoyable.

Angelic ?? Of course!!!

No, it's just E! Today I got the kiddies ready for church and school. We try our best to do this every Thursday with varying degrees of success. With E now potty trained (more or less), I was sure that as she went to the potty before we left, we would be saved this duty at church. Not so! Well, after entrusting MHM to Gma and Gpa, the two of us went off to the potty. It was as I expected, a false call though she thought it was #2.

When we left, we were nearing the middle of the mass where E likes to participate. We made it back for all of the important prayers, giving of "Peace" and singing of several songs. Today, E really belted out the "Alleluia" and the first part of the "Our Father" (now sung in three verses with a common refrain). She really took everyone delightedly by surprise with loud and clear song.

Her volume level was certainly high and we had many glances in our direction but I let her continue. At the end of mass, several people came by to acknowledge and praise E's effort. E grinned shyly but I think she really thought it was great to have people come and engage her. I know that Father J would appreciate such enthusiasm from the school kids! I am hopeful I might get some input from her school music teacher as to how to offer constructive criticism to a not yet 3 year old who desires to sing!!

God love ya E!!!!

Gook

Gook gook gook! MHM will excitedly repeat this as he stalks you down waving a book in the air in front of him. Gook is a pretty good word coming from him. He is adding new sounds and noises seemingly each day. He has Momma, dadda, this, fish, uhoh, that, (Ooot; added today as M reminded me of it last night) and maybe a few others. The sign language is a bit more or at least complimentary with his language skills. Yes, this is another gushing entry of how darn smrt our kids are. MHM even today actually said BOOK with a discernible B. When asked where is the book, Lambykins or many other objects, he definitely understands what we or he is after albeit I believe he knows full well the word NO but true to kids, ignores you completely.

When M asked him this past afternoon whether he wanted to eat, he headed right for his chair to eat. Once again, very smrt and a man after my own stomach. I think he loves to eat as much as I do.

I have been taking MHM and E to play group for some time now and today I took only MHM as he was banned from school for a nonexistent temperature. He really seemed to enjoy my attention and really seemed proud of himself as he stood on a stool to get to the sensory table. This week, it was some very fine red sand and he really liked it.

Now that MHM is more aware of what is happening, we are starting to read him books before putting him down to sleep. He really enjoys touch books especially ones with animals or bugs. This evening, we read several books but he was fidgety so I said some quick prayers and laid him in his bed. He did not just flop over like so often so I knew I had to go find lamby. When I returned, he was lying on his side with his eyes open but the second he had lamby snuggled to his chin, he rolled over contented and ready to sleep.

Rest well little man!

MHM updates

MHM is growing so quickly..... He is now well after his bout with pneumonia and we are getting out and having fun. As a side note, I think it has been almost a week since I have pulled out a tissue and wiped a nose! Oh my gosh, we are for most likely a brief moment disease free!! yeah!!!!

Well, as part of our getting out, yesterday in the midst of a pretty major snow storm, ventured a trip to Flint to the Children's Museum. We arrived early enough so we were able to do most of the good stuff unhindered. As the day went on, there were several parties so the crowd really grew.

MHM was all into this whole experience and really seemed to enjoy walking about all the different activities. He mostly liked to grab small toys and relocate them to other parts of the museum. He had fun in the music room banging on chimes and carrying the spoon. Then after a quick lunch, we finally headed to M's favorite spot in the whole place. The Supermarket and Bistro. MHM enjoyed filling the tiny shopping carts and shoving them any and everywhere. When the area got a bit too active, I headed him for the tots area. There were tunnels, mats and the ever favorite "popcorn pusher". He is so mobile and so alert and just such a great little boy. I am so proud to have a little sprout like him and can only imagine what the future holds for us.

MHM, you are such a joy! I love you!

It's in the delivery

E has quite a way with expression when she is feeling well, is happy and mostly wants something very badly. last evening though she expressed interest in a certain large box that showed up in our Family room. She asked M in a cutesy way what it was all about. When M melted at E's expression and little face, she was hoping E would repeat it to me in the same way. M directed E that the box was daddies and she should ask me what it was. Well, E didn't repeat the same question but instead asked a bit shyly, "Daddy, do you RECOGNIZE that big box?"

What the.......

Why should this spectacular little not even 3 year old even know the word RECOGNIZE let alone unprompted use it in a totally correct context???

I know we keep writing with astonishment about our little E and hope others will forgive us but then again, this blog is for us anyway.

As a bit more bragging is in order, because I want to, E is now learning prayers and songs from church. What a super special little girl we have.

E has also now started her journey into going on the potty. She has mastered the pee pee but the poo poo is still a bit of a stinking point. She is really doing well and now hardly needs the special incentive of chocolate or candy corns.

We as her parents have to RECOGNIZE that she is still just a little sprout and has to learn a lot more for herself. We hope we can keep encouraging her and still let her be the cute girlie that we both hoped for before she was born.

Lots of LOVE TO YOU E!

The Holidays in a nutshell

The Christmas season has passed and I am going to try to get back to writing. The season was very enjoyable with the kids and the true winter weather. We had in the weeks leading up to Christmas, lots of snow adding up to more than a foot on the ground. This lasted until the day after when we had a complete melt down which kept us from going up north for several reasons. One of which I am very happy to say I think I took care of in August when I had a contractor add two sump pumps to the Burton Ave. duplexes. We didn't flood here or there so staying home to worry was not great but we didn't flood and we didn't sit around in the miserable weather staring at each other. Oh and by the way, we found that the kids were both sick and MHM finally was diagnosed with Pneumonia and an ear infection.

All in all though E really grasped the idea of Christmas as we were sure to tell her of the birth of Jesus and how we celebrate his birth and how Santa helps us celebrate his birthday. We watched more Christmas specials than I am sure E really wanted, but when given the only choice, she seemed mostly happy to watch even the old stuff with SCARY stuff. I from the beginning told her that the Abominable snowman in Rudolf was really a nice monster but he just didn't have any friends. The "no friends" theme seemed to work well for most of the shows and their villains and now has reached her other shows.

MHM really was good and having him walking was a treat and nothing got broken until just recently. He seemed to enjoy the same ornament which plays "Up on the rooftop" which E danced to last year. Once again, the big hit for Christmas was the packaging. The kids got plenty of good stuff and we even got "Family" gifts in order to stop any territory disputes.

It was really a joy to see E's eyes and expression when she realized that Santa had indeed come to our house. I almost teared up it was so darn cute. Santa ate a big chunk of the cookie left for him and drank all the milk which E must have felt validated the experience.

Grandma's was a high energy evening much like many past and we are very happy that it continued (for all but 1 in Punta Cana) I believe a tradition of over 40 years that I am aware of.

M for obvious reasons wished for years past and lamented lost traditions. I have many of my traditions yet in place and have hope they stay for many years. I do however hope that M, myself, E and MHM will create our own lasting and loving traditions. Those with family are very important but we must as our own family now enjoy each other and create lasting memories.

This is lots of rambling but I hope to find more time in the near future to collect my thoughts and get back to a more regular posting.