Triplets + 1 - Our Journey Through It All

Found this old post

2012-02-16T23:46:00.002-06:00

So, I was already far behind, but now almost a year! Here is a post I found that I guess I never posted. I'm just going to post as is and I'm really going to try to get better!!!!! I'll add a few captions to the pictures though.

Wow! I've been REALLY bad about updating lately....I just went through the pics on my camera and some old posts and realized that I missed a lot of summer stuff....so I'll just post a few cute pics. We did go to Tunica this summer (without the kids), went to North Carolina to visit with our cousins from Poland. That was fun---I love to see them--they are so nice and fun to hang out with. So glad we have a relationship with them and we've been able to get to know them :) We also went to Lake Michigan (we stayed in IN). Quick easy trip that was so much fun and almost the whole family went.

We tried to go to the Biltmore Mansion, but we didn't know it was like $60 a person....forget that!!!! We just took a picture in front of it :) This was on our way home from our trip to North Carolina.

Aunt Joan, and my cousins Alicja, Victoria, and Genny Me and my girls - this was at the pool at Steve and Victoria's...they made us dinner when we arrived and we sat around eating, drinking, and catching up.

Steve, Radek, Uncle Dan, and Jim
Aunt Joan, Jenna, Me, Alicja, Victoria, Genny, and Mom

We went to see a band at a park and it seemed like it was going to be so much fun....then a huge thunderstorm came and we all had to leave....so we went back to Steve and Alicja's place and drank some Polish vodka and hung out :) The whole trip was so much fun and relaxing and just all about seeing our Polish family!Playing at McDonald's on the way to North Carolina....had to stop a few times to break up the drive and keep the kids happy :)

Alli lost her 1st tooth last May...on her last day of preschool and the day I registered her for kindergarten! What a busy day---she's really growing up! She just now lost her 3rd tooth last week---another is lose...Tooth Fairy is going to go broke ;)
Stopped in Nashville on our way home and met up with my friend Donna for breakfast at Cracker Barrel. I'm thinking she couldn't get out fast enough---our kids were a little wild...they aren't too used to going out to restaurants (b/c we know its a lot to handle and b/c its hard to go out to eat with Alli's milk allergy--we go to a lot of the same places where we know she can eat the food). They are getting better now at restaurants, as we have been taking them a little more now. It was good to see Donna---we stayed close after she moved back to Nashville and we used to visit each other a lot, but I guess with kids, its harder. She has two and I have 4. Hopefully I'll see her sometime this year again when I visit Jackie.

I guess this was last spring or summer....this is my Cassie wearing her "poker face" :)

A little more Christmas

2012-01-21T12:02:00.005-06:00

We took the kids to the civic center to see Santa. They all did good this year, except Jimmy was still a little bit shy/scared/nervous. You can tell by the expression in the picture :)

We decided to get all of the grandkids picture taken for Lynn this Christmas, so I packed the kids up and drove up to Springfield to meet them all. Jim was supposed to go, but at the last minute, his friend called and invited him to the hockey game, so I took the kids alone. The drive there wasn't bad, but the drive home sucked--it rained the whole way home! I'm already not a great night driver, but I'm extra nervous in the rain. Anyway, I think it turned out really good :)

Front row...(l. to r.) Grace - Josie, Middle row (l. to r.) Cassie - Jenna - Alli - Jimmy, Back row (l. to r.) Nick - Cody - Makenzie

I wanted to get separate pictures of my kids, but it was getting sort of late and hectic in there, so I only managed to get a group one, no individuals.

Here are there school pictures too---I know these are all so late, but I never get around to scanning down in the basement. My big kids!!!

Trimming the Tree 2011

2011-12-14T23:36:00.005-06:00

The kids were so excited about decorating the tree this year. We put it up in the stand two days ago, but it was late. Then last night Jim had a survey, so we had to wait until tonight to decorate. Anyway, they did a pretty good job and we didn't hardly have to move any ornaments. Just a few that were weighing the branches down on the bottom. Alli said it's her favorite part of Christmas :) So, here is the finished product and then a few pictures of them doing all the work. Jim picked out a pretty tree this year and the house smells so good :)

Family Cardinal Game

2011-11-21T22:17:00.003-06:00

Back in September, we finally made it to the Cardinal game as a family....after the one two years before, we didn't make it back last year. It was too hectic. This year was a lot better, but we did take the kids to play and left in maybe the 6th inning....hopefully next year we'll be able to do it again.

It's Soccer Season

2011-08-30T22:16:00.005-05:00

Found that I started a post and never finished it. So, only a few more weeks of soccer. Alli is doing pretty good :)

Alli had her first soccer game on Saturday. They played in a tournament. She had to miss the one the week before because she was sick, but they did win. She played great and her team won on Saturday, so they had another game on Sunday. They ended up winning all 3 games, but the way they do the tournament, they came in 3rd place. She got a medal though, so she was really excited :) She LOVES to play goalie and she is actually pretty good at it. I think she had 9 shots against her and only one goal. When she was playing defense (full back), she just wasn't very aggressive--we need to work on that a little more. Her team started getting a little better last year at the end of the year, and this year they are looking pretty good---I guess maybe getting better with age and understanding the game a little bit.

My other babies - Alli's biggest fans

Triplets Go to Preschool

2011-08-29T15:30:00.006-05:00

Jenna, Jimmy, and Cassie started preschool today. Their program at Sacred Heart is called Lucky Ducks. They looked so cute in their little uniforms and they were very excited to go to school (me too!!!!, but I'm sure most of you reading this already know that!) We didn't get to go in the classroom and say goodbye, we had to do it right at the door. I sort of missed Jimmy walking in b/c the principal was pushing them in so fast and Jim had already told him bye. I don't think she realized there were 3 of them and Mommy didn't get to tell him to have fun.

After school report - they all cried for the first 2 mins when they walked in, then the teacher got them situated with drawing and playing, so they were fine. Cassie cried for about 5 mins during resting time while watching a movie, but the teacher said it was b/c in the movie, they said "Mom" and I guess she started realizing I wasn't there. They go from 8:30-11:30, so about 11:15, she said Jimmy started really wanting me and sort of whining for me. Then when I picked them up, they have to line up on the side of the building. They all sat there really good, until she started releasing the kids to their parents, Jimmy got up and started running towards me, but she was holding him back, so he was crying and fighting to get past her. She finally let him come to me and got the girls up too. Other than that though, I think they all had a really good time. They can't wait to go back, although, Jimmy is still not sure. I'm sure they will get used to it though.

And what did I do?? Lots!!! Went to the bank, 2 grocery stores, Bread Co., returned a movie, returned stuff at Kohls and Macy's :) I think I'm going to relax on my next 3 hrs I get on Wed :)

Jenna - very tired after her first day of school

MY Favorite Summer Activity!!!!

2011-08-23T23:18:00.004-05:00

I have always loved to go to the pool in the summer....that is what I grew up doing everyday and I haven't grown out of it! I hate that I can't go to the pool as much as I want to, either b/c I have to work, I can't handle the kids by myself, it rains, or I have other stuff that has to get done. I guess its part of growing up, but I still whine about it all the time. I have a subdivision pool, but its too hard to handle my kids - I need a zero-entry pool, so I usually have to pay to go to a public pool.

So, I tried to take the kids swimming as much as I can. Jim doesn't like to go to the pool. I wish he did. It would be more fun and easier. But, the kids love to go too, so I pack them all up and go. Ann and I went together a lot this summer. We went to a few different pools and the kids liked the variety. Seems like I do get to go a little more each year since the kids were born, so hopefully next year we can spend even more time there :)

Alli did swim lessons this year, but she actually pretty much taught herself to swim the day before lessons started. We just practiced at the pool. She is doing really good. Still doesn't have the strokes totally down and we only let her swim where she can touch, but she hates to wear water wings. Hopefully she will be a great swimmer next summer.

The triplets did pretty good this summer too. They all wear water wings. Jenna is really good at using them as they are intended - moving her arms and kicking her feet. She's a little dare devil. Jimmy got a lot braver as the summer went on. Cautious Cassie liked the water, but is very nervous/cautious and you have to be holding her if she can't touch. Doesn't like to be splashed at all! Hopefully they all get a little braver next year too.

Pics are from July 24th @ White Birch Bay

Love the wave pool!
Silly kids
Ann loves the wave pool too :)
Not sure why my kids always think they have to POSE for pictures
Its just a tiny bit easier when Dan and Chris take a nap

Summer BBQ - Aug 2011

2011-08-23T23:02:00.004-05:00

We had a big BBQ a few weeks ago. I counted up that we had 75 people over! It was soooo HOT though that nobody hung out outside, so we all crammed in the house and then of course, it got very hot in here. It was almost 80 degrees inside and I couldn't cool it down for anything. We had lots and lots of good food and good friends over, as well as family (which let's be honest, they are our friends too!) It was so good to see everyone though. We are all so busy now that we have our own kids, its hard to get together.

I was trying to catch a picture of all of the kids, but it was later in the day, and a lot of them had left. We had a pinata for the kids too :) Since it would take tons of room to put a pic of all the kids hitting the pinata, I just put my own cute kids on here. Hey, its my blog :P

America's Funniest Home Video???

2011-08-23T21:20:00.002-05:00

Alli wanted to send in a video of herself for Disney Channel's "Shake It Up" dancing contest. It took us a few times, but we finally were able to upload one. I love when she dances....she really is JUST LIKE BRITTANY SPEARS!!! ;)

This was one of the rejects....enjoy!

Summer Flew By........

2011-08-23T20:36:00.004-05:00

Wow! Summer is pretty much over, and haven't posted hardly at all. My big girl started kindergarten this year!!! She's in her 2nd week and she LOVES it. I teared up a tiny bit walking her up to the front of school (both Jim and myself and the triplets walked her up there), but she was just so excited that I couldn't help but just be excited for her. It's crazy how much I miss her being at home, even on the days I work. I guess b/c its just the fact that I can't call home to talk to her if I wanted. I already feel like she is getting so much smarter and learning so much, making friends.

When I picked her up that first day, I asked her how her day went. She answered, "Well, let me first tell you about the bad stuff." OH no!! I was nervous. She said that her water bottle came open and spilled a little bit at lunch. Then a girl with cheese crackers kept touching her on her shoulder. She is so good and cautious about her milk allergy. Anyway, besides that, she had a great day. Last Wed, she had soccer practice, but after about 15 mins, she could barely breathe. Went to the dr the next day and he gave her an inhaler and put her on preventative asthma type medicine. So, she has to go the nurses office everyday after recess to use her inhaler. She's such a good sport about that stuff though. We were a little (or a lot) nervous about her going to school with all the milk around in the cafeteria, etc But I just make sure I pack her a lunch everyday. I'm proud of my girl.

Oh, I almost forgot! She was a little upset the whole first week that she didn't get any homework. I kept telling her she'll get it soon enough and she'll have it the rest of her life. I did ask the teacher tonight and she said they will start getting it soon. I'm sure Alli will be happy for a little while...until she gets sick of it! I give it a month, tops.

Sitting at her table
This isn't a great picture of me at all, but Alli looks cute :)Alli and her teacher

On her second day of school, Mindy came over to babysit the other kids and her kids were with her b/c they didn't go back to school yet. Alli wanted to stay home and play. She asked Jim, "Can I just stay home today and that will be one of my two days off?" Sorry, kiddo..doesn't work that way..only get off on Sat and Sun and you can't choose your days off! :)

Yesterday, her favorite part of school was she got to see a dead mouse. I thought maybe she had science class, but no, there was actually a dead mouse on the floor under the table. ICK!! Apparently the school is having a little bit of a mouse problem.

Tonight was Parent Info night. I liked it b/c the teacher explained what they do during the day, what the goals are for the year. Hopefully I can volunteer a little bit in the classroom, and heck, who knows, I might even join the PTA :) Alli is already selling TJ's Pizzas. So, let me know if you are interested!!!

So, getting ready to get busy (what's new???) Alli with school 5 days a week, soccer practice, soccer games, Alli dance, Jenna/Cassie dance, and the triplets start preschool in 6 more days! Crazy!!!

Canada, Eh???

2011-06-02T22:57:00.009-05:00

The first weekend in March, I went on a trip to Niagara Falls, Canada with my mom, Jane, Ken, Kenny, Ann, Lisa, Jerry, and Jackie & Bill. We all took the trip to see Pearl Heart perform. They were there all of February and 1st weekend in March. They were awesome, like always! We saw Jeff Steel perform the first night, then saw Pearl Heart the next day. They just got home again - they were there the whole month of May and headlined their own show that time! CD should be out shortly, I HOPE!!!

One of our layovers, I think in Chicago

We had a lot of fun hanging out with Pearl Heart, the rest of the fam, and also some of the band members and other performers.

We stayed at a casino, but I didn't even gamble $1.....just in the hotel room, playing dice :) Oh, and Canada was VERY expensive.....taxes!

That was my first time in Canada. It was sooooo cold there! I wish Jim could have gone...someday, we will vacation together again :) He went to Kentucky Derby in May. I'm planning on Tunica later this month. The Falls were just awesome. So pretty and just so neat!

The view of the Falls from our hotel room
Me, Mom, & Jackie
Ann & Bill
View of the American side from Canada
Ken, Jane, & Kenny
Ken, Jane, Me, Ann, Mom, Jackie, Bill, Lisa, Kenny, Jerry
Jackie and Bill
Canada side of the Falls.....there were so many chunks of ice!
Mom and her daughters
Kenny and Bill getting out of the trunk of the van.....the guys all walked there, but it was so cold we had to squeeze in on the way back.
Getting ready to go to the Jeff Steel show
Hanging out at the hotel after the Pearl Heart show

Short trip, but fun! We ran back by the Falls before we left for the airport b/c it was sunny. So much prettier on a sunny day!!!

House Party

2011-06-02T22:36:00.004-05:00

Back in March, I was chosen on the HouseParty.com website to host a Zatarain's Mardi Gras party. We didn't have tons of people over, but we still got to hang out, have fun, and eat some good food that they supplied. I just won another one for this month to try out some new Fresh Wave products. Its a pretty neat website and a great way to try out new products and let your friends try them too.

My beautiful cupcakes!! I thought they looked pretty good ;)

Danielle, Erin, and Janet
Jamie
Jumbalaya Jim
Beth and Alivia
Me, Alli and Jenna
Jenna, Alli, Mia, and Cassie
My KIDDOS!

Opening Day/Daddy's 36th Birthday

2011-06-02T22:04:00.007-05:00

Every few years, Jim's b-day falls on Opening Day for our beloved Cardinals! We always have so much fun on that day--its like a holiday for everyone. So, personally, if I were Jim, I wouldn't want to have to share MY special day (b-day) with the rest of St. Louis fans. But, he made the most of it and partied twice as hard :)

We got smart this year and paid for a parking spot to tailgate in. Best idea ever (Jane and Ken)! We had so much fun and didn't have to keep walking back to the car for drinks, etc. Too bad we lost :(

Jim got a little b-day present from Lonnie....Mad Dog 20/20.....that my friends, is what sent him over the edge so much :)Jane and Ann finding their seats
Some goofball fans :)
Happy 36th Birthday, Jim!!! We all love you soooo much!
Helping Daddy open presents...he didn't get to open much from us b/c he bought and iPad for his birthday present :)
Sisterly Love
Doesn't he look so sweet and innocent???

Easter 2011

2011-04-25T18:04:00.003-05:00

I took the kids to see the Easter Bunny at the Mall last Wed. Thought I would do good and get there early. Got there at 10:40 and the dang Bunny doesn't start his shift until noon! I already walked the kids in the mall, so I wasn't leaving. We played on the playground about 4 different times and then I made them go to a few stores. 4 kids and malls don't mix! What a chore! We stopped by the bathrooms, the drinking fountains, and the candy kiosks too.

None of them were scared this year, but Cassie wasn't quite ready to sit on his lap. I think Jenna was a little nervous, so she didn't smile too big, but was a big girl sitting on his lap. Jimmy was being Jimmy....he could care less. This was the only picture without his hand over his face. He is just a little shy and doesn't like to listen...he just does what he wants. They offered to retake it, but I think this was the best we were going to get :) A big change though since their Santa picture just 4 mos ago.....they were still crying and scared in that one!

We also went to Portrait Innovations and got a picture last week just to show them off in their Easter outfits. Jenna smiled on every picture except this one, but this is the ONLY one that Jimmy was even looking at the camera!

Trophies

2011-04-21T18:33:00.004-05:00

Sorry regular readers! I'm hijacking the blog so I can post a picture of my fantasy baseball league's trophies. They just came in and I want to make sure everyone has a chance to see them (and I'm not sure where else to post them) :) Congrats to Bobby, Craig, and John. I'll get these to you ASAP.

America's Next Top Model????

2011-04-14T22:29:00.003-05:00

Alli LOVES to pose when the camera comes out. She loves to sing and dance and put on shows for us. And we she knows she looks cute, she struts her stuff all over the house. Here's a few for her portfolio :)

And of course, Jenna right by her side ;)

Disney on Ice

2011-04-14T22:16:00.002-05:00

We went to see Disney on Ice on St. Patrick's Day. Jim really wanted to go out for some green beer, but I bought the tickets with my MOMMES group way back in Dec. I didn't really think about what day it was on. But we never really go out too much since we had the kids anyway, so I didn't think it would be a big deal. Anyway, I bought all the kids a new Disney shirt, so they were pretty excited about that. The show was great---and we sat second row from the ice. Wish we could be that close for the Bon Jovi concert next month....but, that's not going to happen! Didn't get any pictures at the show. Can't wait for the next one. The kids were so excited and talked about it for days!

I just have to post this one b/c Jenna cracks me up! She totally looks up to Alli and wants to do everything that she does. Such a big girl.

Tour de St. Louis

2011-04-14T21:59:00.002-05:00

March 20th

Jim's friends like to come in from back home (Springfield) to spend the day in St. Louis and do all of the touristy type stuff. Jim usually meets up with them, but I never get to go. They probably think I don't like them, but really either I already have something going on, or we can't get a babysitter, so he goes. But, I do like them---they are a lot of fun to hang out with.

First, we took the tour of Busch Stadium. It was pretty cool.

All the girls - me, Bekah, Vanessa, Amy (and her baby)

2006 World Champions
Jim and I in the dugout
All of us in the dugout - Back row - Jason, Sean, Joel, Amy, Front row - Me, Jim, Vanessa, Bekah, and Charlie
Then we all went to take the Schlafly Bottleworks tour and eat lunch. I was getting a little toured out. I know its a lot smaller scale than AB, but the tour was no comparison! Pretty boring. Food was just okay and I'm not big on their beer. Soooo.....I wouldn't really recommend that one.

Do they look interested???

Cute Kiddos

2011-04-11T22:56:00.002-05:00

Ann has school on Thursday nights and my mom always babysits, so I volunteered to keep them at my house this week (3-23). Good thing it was only about 2 hrs ;)

They were sitting on the table watching Toy Story 3 and being so good. I was going to find the camera, and Alli said, "Mom, get a picture of the babies. They are all sitting there like a group and its so cute." I thought it was cute that Alli noticed how cute it was. Then she said, "Okay, wait for me to get in the front of them." Totally MY daughter!!! LOL!

We decided we needed to add the babies to the picture too. Luckily, they sat still long enough to get one of my new favorite pictures!!! These cousins love to play together :)

Matt, Mike, Cassie, Jimmy, Jenna
Dan, Alli, Chris

Day at the Park 4-10-2011

2011-04-11T22:32:00.005-05:00

I'm so far behind in updating the blog, so I'm just going to start with the recent stuff, then if I have time, I'll go back and add stuff from the 1st 3 months of 2011.

After a long, long, cold, icy, snowy winter, its finally starting to warm up. We didn't have many plans this weekend, but the weather was so nice, we wanted to get outside and enjoy it. We took the kids to St. Ferdinand park to play and feed the ducks. They had a lot of fun. I think Jim liked the park too...I didn't realize he had never been there. It's a nice park and pretty close to home.

I think the ducks were full....everyone had the same idea on a beautiful day

Not a great picture of Cassie, but I think it looks cool
They are getting so daring, climbing on all of the playground equipment. Makes me a little nervous.
The only slide Cassie would go on. She is still hesitant to go on the big slides.
We didn't realize she was sick and had a fever until after we were already there for an hour. Poor baby is on day 3 with a fever now. And Jim and Allison have one now too. We did great this winter though without getting sick at all, so I guess we couldn't stay lucky forever!

My Potty-Trained Fools!!!!

2011-04-11T22:11:00.002-05:00

I think we can safely say we are pretty much done with daytime diapers! I started last November, 2 weeks before their 3rd birthday. Jenna was done in a few days. Jimmy took about 2 weeks. Cassie...well, she just didn't really care. And I guess I didn't too much either. I didn't work with her much....I guess I figured she wasn't ready and heck, one kid in diapers was easy compared to three (and a heck of a lot cheaper too!!!) But, a week ago, I started with setting the timer for every 30 mins and made her go in there. She had a few accidents the first few days, but she has been doing great. I'm so proud of her :) We have still been putting them all in diapers at bedtime, but they never wet them, so I think we can safely stop (with Jimmy and Jenna). I'm really looking forward to no swim diapers over the summer too and saving some more money on that last box of diapers I had to buy each month!

Tonight, Jimmy was being silly with his undies, so of course the girls had to join in. And of course, I had to have them pose for a picture :)

Happy 2011!!!!!

2011-04-04T15:48:00.004-05:00

We went to Blessed Theresa for a dinner/dance for New Year's Eve instead of having our usual party. It was fun....but not sure what we'll be doing next year. I'm glad Jackie babysat for us and got a picture of the kids for me :)

Jenna, Alli, Cassie, and Jimmy

Here Comes Santa Claus....2010

2011-04-03T18:34:00.010-05:00

Santa came and dropped off lots of loot!
Breaking into the gifts
Santa put candy in the stockings and the kids had a hard time getting past that....they just wanted to sit and eat candy instead of open presents.

Doesn't Jenna just look thrilled with her gift????
We had a wonderful Christmas. The kids were really good. I'm so glad they are at the stage when we go to my Mom's house or to someone's house, they will go off and play a little bit with their cousins and not cling to us the whole time. It gives us a chance to sit and relax a little bit :)

Brian, Dad, and Billy
Greg and Jake
Cali, Alli, and Amy
Jenna and Liam (note - all the baby dolls in the house are now named Liam!)
Jenna, Cassie, and Marissa

All of us with Dad

We celebrated with the Clausers the next day and had Christmas at our house. We missed Grandma G this year (she was in CA with Aunt Cindy), but we enjoyed all the gifts, food, and company!

Preparing for Christmas

2011-03-02T14:17:00.002-06:00

This is early December(I really need to get better at this!).....we went to see Santa at the Civic Center.....didn't scan a copy of the picture, but here are a few cute ones of the kids :)

We got to put the Christmas tree back upstairs this year---it was so much better. Just felt more like Christmas, especially b/c I'm not at the point of getting a lot of decorations out for the kids to break yet. Maybe next year. The house smelled good too---and we didn't wait until 4 days before Christmas to actually get the tree. We were on top of things pretty good this year. Although, it is now March 2nd, and our lights are still up on the house ;)

I love this picture! Alli wanted to make sure she was hugging all of them.

My Babies are 3333333333333

2011-02-05T13:55:00.005-06:00

The triplets turned 3 on November 28th. I really can't believe they are that old already. I still think of them as being so little, so when they do something that amazes me b/c I don't think they should be that smart yet, I have to remember and realize that they are getting to be big kids now! We had the whole family over (it fell on Thanksgiving weekend) to celebrate.

Someone is excited about her birthday cupcake!
Blowing out the candles
Family shot
Opening presents
They always like to play with the stickers on the clothes
Cassie and her new baby
Just what she wanted---they all asked for an umbrella!

Uncle Billy playing with Jenna
Potty training is in full swing---Poor Grandma helping all of them!

Alli's Last Soccer Game

2011-02-05T13:45:00.003-06:00

I'm so far behind on this! Alli had her last soccer game in early November. Ended just in time before the really cold weather came! She mostly played goalie that game and loved it. She did pretty good too---didn't let anyone score off of her!

She doesn't have the ball in this pic, but she's ready to assist if needed :)

Good Save, Alli!
Great Job!

She loved to slap hands at the end of every game. You can tell she's smiling :)

London Bridge

2010-12-10T20:34:00.002-06:00

Cassie put the sword up and invited Jimmy and Jenna to play with her :)

My beautiful, beautiful babies!!!!

2010-12-06T22:37:00.016-06:00

Alli - 5 Years, Jenna, Jimmy, & Cassie - 3 Years
Love this picture :) They were all posing and Jimmy laid back..so they all followed :)

Prayers

2010-11-24T21:18:00.003-06:00

Alli says the cutest night time prayers. She got sick of saying the "Now I lay me down to sleep...." prayer, so she likes to make up her own. For the longest time it was this:

God is great. God is good-in the morning and at night. Amen.

This was her prayer tonight~

Thank you God for all of the food and for everything. Thank you for all of the good nights. I'm sad that you died. We like all the good people and we don't like all of the bad people. Amen.

Updates on the kids

2010-11-22T14:09:00.004-06:00

I haven't blogged in a while, so I figured I should since I also haven't been keeping up with baby books, etc. So, just for my own records and memories.....

Started potty training 5 weeks ago today. I wasn't going to start b/c it was so stressful last time we tried, but Ann started with Matt and Mike and they were doing really good, so I got a little jealous and thought I should give it a shot. We spend about $150 a month on diapers and wipes. So, I guess the sooner the better! Jenna got it by day 4. She loves to wear her underwear like a big girl! Jimmy is doing really good with not many accidents, so I've been putting him in under wear the past few days. Cassie....not so much. She'll go on the potty each time, but I also just went back and bought her another box of diapers. But she did pretty good yesterday and today, so I let her wear some underwear and she is so excited, so I'm hoping it might give her the nudge she needs. So, we spend A LOT of time in the bathroom (all 4 of us!) and our bathroom is not very big. So, its maybe not as stressful as it was, but is very annoying! They all want to go ALL OF THE TIME!

They all talk so good and I love to listen to them trying to gather their thoughts and word together to formulate a sentence. I can't believe they are already going to be 3 next week. I guess I have to stop calling them 'the babies'. They don't fight nearly as much as they were a few months ago. They have been playing together pretty good and really using their imagination......playing with their babies, acting like puppies. I'm not sure where they get the puppy thing, but its so cute.

Jenna is Miss Beautiful Sassy Pants! She is bossy, she knows it all, outgoing, talks back to us. She is the leader and she loves to be a big girl like Alli. They play so well together. I wish I could get her to eat better....she is still so tiny. Not off the charts tiny, but tiny enough that she won't get to move to a high-back booster at 3 b/c she doesn't weigh 30lbs. So, no worries, but I was hoping to get rid of the car seats!!! Cassie and Jimmy get to move into one. She is such a great sleeper. Always the first to fall asleep and the last to wake up.

Cassie is still the more shy one, but she is opening up a little bit more. She can get her feelings hurt very easily. She is the last of the 3 to try anything new. She is so funny.....LOVES to sing and read. She also loves to eat. She plays musical chairs around the table to finish the plates of leftover food. Loves to have her picture taken too (like her mom :) Not sleeping very well the past few mos. Gets up at least once a night crying and Jim has to get her back to sleep.

Jimmy is still all boy! He gets into EVERYTHING! Can't seem to keep his hands to himself. Poor thing is always in trouble and he still likes to tease his sisters a lot. But, they have been playing good together at times. He is so sweet though. In the mornings, he always comes into our bed and he just snuggles and gives such sweet hugs. He is such a handsome little thing. I'm so proud of him with his potty training b/c I didn't think he would do so well. Sometimes I feel bad for him that he is the only boy.....he wants his hair fixed, his nails painted, dolls/purses. I think I need to get him with the Meadows boys more often :)

Alli is still as sweet as ever. Her soccer is over, so she's only doing dance right now. I think she is learning a lot in pre-K. Last year she did a lot more projects, but this year they are learning more about letters, etc. She is a big helper and now that the triplets are older, she enjoys playing with them a lot more. Of course, probably b/c she is the boss and they do whatever she says. She is still doing speech 1/2hr each week through Hazelwood.

Rombach's Pumpkin Patch

2010-11-10T20:03:00.003-06:00

Three weeks ago we went to the pumpkin patch. It was an unusually HOT day for October. About 80 degrees! Anyway, the kids had fun, but they only got to pick out a little pumpkin/gourd because the big pumpkins at ALDI are only $1.99 :)

My new favorite picture of all the kids

Trick or Treating

2010-11-10T13:56:00.007-06:00

We had a great time trick or treating. Janet and Jamie, Dawn and Nathan, Danielle and Derek, Toni and Andy, Katie and Cory, and Sheila came over with their kids. Everyone brought over some snacks for the pre-party, then we went out.

This year, Jenna, Jimmy, & Cassie were excited about dressing up and going to get candy. It was fun watching them run around. I couldn't keep up with Alli...she was off with Will and Mia (the big kids)!
Mia, Alli, Cassie, Jenna, Will, Rocco, Devan, Morgan, Jimmy, Owen, & Erin
Jenna and Cassie
Cassie
Jimmy and Owen and Erin
Jenna, Cassie, Jimmy, & Alli
Devan and Morgan
Will, Alli, & Mia
The Little Mermaid
Jenna, Cassie, & Jimmy
Dawn, Nate, & Rocco
Andy, Toni, and Taylor
I'm pretty good at chopping people off, huh???
Danielle and Owen
Toni and Sheila
Jenna and Alli getting candy
Cassie and Jimmy getting candy
End of the night....Alli did NOT take a nap and swore she wouldn't be cranky....but this picture proves she lied to the MOM :)

Ann's Annual Halloween Party 10/30

2010-11-10T13:26:00.008-06:00

Always a good time!!!!

Boo at the Zoo

2010-11-10T12:57:00.008-06:00

Boo at the Zoo was really crazy crowded. It was such a beautiful day outside, so maybe that is why it was so crowded. We didn't really even get to see many of the animals, but it was fun getting all of the kids together with their cousins. We probably won't go back again, unless its the week before or something. I heard it wasn't bad a few days earlier.

Alli was Ariel and Jenna, Jimmy, and Cassie were Baby Bears.

Michael and Kelly
Another attempt at a family photo
We were a little bummed.....we took a group picture of all the kids, and then Ann had to leave and as soon as she did, 2 mins later Katie and Michael came up with their kids.

Alli, Dan, Jimmy, Cassie, Jenna, Matt, Sam, Sully, Chris, and Mike

Another group shot....
Cali, Alli, Cassie, Jenna, Jimmy, Libby, Cory, Sully, Sam (and Gina)
Gina and her boy
Jenna
Sully

Pumpkin Carving

2010-11-10T12:41:00.005-06:00

Alli picked out a cool witch for Daddy to carve, but he was able to talk her into just a plain old jack-o-lantern face. I'm sure it was a lot easier ;) The kids had fun helping clean out the guts, but only with the spoon....they didn't really want to touch it.

2010-11-10T12:38:00.001-06:00

Look what Dad picked up at ALDI

Alli's 5th Birthday Party

2010-11-10T11:20:00.007-06:00

We had Alli's family birthday party on Sunday, 10/24. Kelly and her 3 kid spent the night on Saturday - Alli loved having a sleep over with her cousins. Thanks everyone for coming over and celebrating with us and for all of the gifts. Alli LOVES her birthday---although, I have to say she loves everyday, loves life! She is such a good little happy girl!!!

Chris
Baby Erin made an appearance :)

5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5

2010-10-24T20:55:00.008-05:00

So, I know I write this every year for their b-days, but I can't believe Allison is already 5 years old. She gets sweeter and sweeter everyday and she is so darn smart and cute and funny. Love this kid!! I took her out for breakfast at OUR favorite place.....take one guess ;) I traded my days at work so I could be off and Jim came home half day too. She opened lots and lots of presents and I seriously think she LOVED every one of them! She got some new boots, some clothes, earrings, toys, crafty stuff, etc, etc, etc.

After she opened her gift, we all went out to dinner at Chevys. They were very accommodating to us, making Alli something special to eat. Didn't hurt that kids eat free on Tuesdays too :) The kids were so good at the restaurant, so dinner went really well. Here is Alli posing after her meal.....because that's what she does ;) This girl loves the lens!

Cassie wanted to get in on the action.....
Alli chose to go to Chuck E. Cheese for her b-day, so that's where we went. Again, they all had a fun time. Alli made another new boyfriend and a new best friend :)

On the way there.....her and her doll, Allison, wearing their seatbelt
Cassie didn't like this ride too much
But Jenna loved it!

Riding the roller coasters
We finally made it home to sing "Happy Birthday" and have some cake.

She doesn't want the kids to blow out her candles

Puttin' on the Glitz

2010-10-24T20:46:00.003-05:00

Last weekend I took the girls to a make up / dress up party at a fellow MOMMES member's house. Alli had a ball making new friends and getting all glammed up. I couldn't even get any pictures of her b/c she was off playing, making her 10th boyfriend. Jenna and Cassie had fun too!

FINALLY coming together!!!!

2010-10-10T23:10:00.003-05:00

Okay, so its been in the plans for about 3 years now and actually in the works for a year, but we are finally making some progress on the living room updates!

We started with recessed lighting last fall, then started painting the ceiling and that took about 8 mos! (we came across a few issues). So, that was done, then we painted, got new carpet, new doors, new front door, new curtains (which I don't really like so will be looking for new ones) and new furniture. The next major thing we need is the baseboard and we need to paint the doors (they are already white with primer). Then we just need some pictures, some lamps.

I think it looks really good and just more updated (modern). We can't afford to move, so I at least think we deserve to have a nice house :)

Our furniture is REALLY BIG. Jim made me a little nervous when he kept calling me at work and telling me that. It is big, but our living room is big, so it looks good. It's very comfy and seems to suck me in and make me fall asleep as soon as I lay on it. Of course, could just be b/c I'm ALWAYS exhausted :)

Cassie on the chair and 1/2

Hanging with Cali outside

2010-10-10T22:56:00.003-05:00

Every so often, I watch my great-niece (that makes me sound so old!) Cali. She is only 3 mos younger than Alli. They get along so good and have so much fun together. Anyway, I love when she comes over b/c I like that Alli has a friend to hang out with that is her age. Last week, we went outside to play with the bikes. I couldn't get them all out b/c they are covered with our old carpet and furniture on the back porch (next post!).

Cali
Cali and Alli
The kids in their "new" wagon from Aunt Kelly

Random Pics

2010-10-10T22:43:00.007-05:00

Cassie hiding her babies from Jimmy so he couldn't take them from her.

I think Alli took these

This picture was supposed to be of Cassie, but Alli jumped right in front of her! Just like her mother!
Alli and Cassie
Now they all want to be in the picture and Alli is already doing bunny ears
They love to hang out with their cousins. Jenna and Christopher.
Cassie

Corduroy 9-17 thru 9-19

2010-10-10T22:05:00.007-05:00

Alli got to bring Corduroy home from school a few weeks ago. She took very good care of him and took him to his first wedding and he had his first hotel stay. She was sooo excited to show him to me when I got home from work on Friday. She told me he was hanging on her coat hook and she just knew right when she got to school that it was her turn to take him home for the weekend. She was so cute and excited! We had to write in Corduroy's journal and add pictures too so she can take it back to school for the next kid to bring home. (This post is for Alli)

On the way to Pawnee
At the rehearsal
Changing Corduroy into his PJs
Brushing his teeth
Ready for his bedtime story
Lemons are NOT Red

Ready to leave the hotel....just hangin' out holding Alli's new purse for being the flower girl
When we got home, we ordered some of Alli's specialty "cheeseless" pizza for Corduroy to try
I think Corduroy had a good weekend spending lots of time with Alli and her family

Bowling - 9/12/10

2010-10-10T21:57:00.005-05:00

The kids got to go bowling for their first time for their cousin Cody's 6th birthday party. I don't have pics of all of them b/c one of my cameras ran out of batteries and the other camera just quit working and is going to the shop :(

Happy Birthday, Cody!!!

Jason and Kristen's Wedding 9-18-10

2010-10-02T07:36:00.011-05:00

Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Jason Clauser!!!!!

Jason awaiting his beautiful bride, with his Best Man
The most beautiful flower girls ever :) Alli and Makenzie
Jenna dancing at church
Jimmy and Cassie hugging
My 4 BEAUTIFUL BABIES! - Jenna, Jimmy, Cassie, Alli

That is about all of the church pictures I was able to get. It was pretty hectic taking
care of Jenna, Jimmy, & Cassie at the church while Jim and Alli were part of the wedding. But, they did pretty good for the wedding starting late, us having to get there early, and then sitting through the ceremony. The reception was so much fun....lots and lots of dancing. But, the kids were napless and wanted to go back to the hotel, so I had to take them back and put them to sleep. I wish I could have stayed longer and partied, but I was pretty tired too from the weekend. Thanks Ann for coming back with me and helping :) Its just hard getting everyone ready in the hotel, keeping them quiet and good, etc. But, they are 2...so whatever..we deal :) So, as hard as it was, it was sooo much fun and we all enjoyed being a part of it.

On to the reception pics...

Mike and Diane (Kristen's Mom)
Makenzie and Alli walking in to "Party in the USA"
Jim and Amy walking in
The speech
First Dance
Lynn and Jim

Dinner time
Dancing the night away
Janet and Jamie
Alli and Kristen

Welcome to the family, Kristen Clauser! Glad it's finally official :)

Too Cool for School

2010-08-25T12:37:00.005-05:00

Alli's 1st day of Pre-K was last Monday. She loves going to school. She was asking all summer how many more days/weeks until her first day. It's 3 days a week this year and she has a new teacher. I bought her some Sketchers Twinkle Toes shoes b/c she's been wanting them for so long and she's such a good girl. Didn't like the price, but like I said...she's a good girl, she wanted them for a long time, and she gets a lot of hand-me-downs from friends, so that was my justification that she deserved to have them :)

Jimmy, Alli, Jenna, and Cassie (and our new front door!)
Gosh, this girl is just so beautiful!!! I can't help but say it :)

Alli's First Soccer Game

2010-08-19T21:20:00.005-05:00

Alli started soccer a few weeks ago....so far, for me, I think its so unorganized, but anyway, I guess its finally coming together. She loves it! She had her first game yesterday at St. Sabina. She wasn't very aggressive at first, but then she started getting in there and going for the ball more. She only got hurt once....I guess she fell in the pack of girls and someone stomped on her hand with their cleats. She wanted to not play anymore, but Jim talked her into playing. There are only 2-3 pre-K on the team, the rest are in kindergarten. She looked so cute in her uniform and running up and down the field. They lost 3-0.

Alli before she got to go on the field. The little girl next to her is her friend Delaney that she always talks about. They go to school together, dance together, and now soccer.

Playing forward
Action Shot!
Playing fullback....and cheesing it up for the camera :)

Running over to us at the end of the game
The babies love to be outside, so they are really liking Alli's practices and games. Lots of dirt though, which means more baths for us :( But, it makes us not be as lazy, I guess!

She is such a ham....I thought she was wanting me to pick her up...but she kept telling me to take her picture :)

Little Monkeys

2010-08-16T23:24:00.002-05:00

One little monkey......

Two little monkeys.....and for the record, Jenna has had a bad few days.....first Jimmy scratched her on accident with a tortilla chip from her cheek to her ear, right under her eye. Yesterday, she was playing and running and hit the corner of the wall and got a huge lump! Then today, she was playing and hit the couch and got almost like a rug burn across her huge lump on her forehead! Poor baby...its really sort of hard to look at.

My dancing girl :)

2010-08-16T23:11:00.002-05:00

Last month, we went to our friend Justin's 50th Birthday party. It was outside at a park and we all had so much fun. The kids played in the fountains, we had good food, and good music. Jenna was a dancing machine!

Random Stuff

2010-08-06T22:57:00.006-05:00

Allison got her hair all chopped off a few weeks ago! She donated it to Locks of Love and was really excited about it when we explained it to her what her hair would be used for. It sure is a lot easier to wash and brush now too! She has been wanting it cut for probably about 2 mos, but I was hesitant b/c I loved her hair. But it was getting a little nappy to brush, probably from all of the chlorine from the pool, etc. Anyway, she is such a cutie!

Papa fell asleep and the kids made sure they put all of their toys and blankets on him.

Kelly and Mike came over two week ago with the kids.....they were all pretty interested in the lizard (or whatever) that Jim found in the basement.

Jimmy tried on Uncle Mike's shoes....those have to at least be a size 13 or bigger!
Jenna playing airplane with Uncle Mike

Home Grown Tomato

2010-08-06T22:54:00.003-05:00

Mom and Alli planted 3 tomato plants in the yard. Alli would not even share it with me...she said it was all hers. She loves to eat tomatoes just like apples and has since she was a baby. She used to call them apples too. We are getting so many, we can hardly eat them all. I've been making salsa with them so they don't go bad though. They taste soooo good!

Of course, Alli has to pose in every picture :)

Magic House

2010-08-06T22:47:00.005-05:00

About 3 weeks ago, we took the kids to the Magic House with my MOMMES group that I belong to. It was a really good deal...only $15 for the whole family. The kids were really good and had a lot of fun.

Playing in the water
the pulley
Not sure where Alli was hanging out...she was just running around so much playing that I guess I couldn't snap many pictures of her.

She did love the static ball....pay attention to her hair...might be the last time you see it that long ;)

Jimmy cried and cried b/c he wanted his turn. We didn't even have the guy turn it on for him b/c we knew his hair wouldn't do anything. But he had no clue..he was happy :)

Miniature Golf

2010-08-06T22:13:00.005-05:00

A few weeks ago, when we were trying to get the house painted, I took the kids to Jane's rec center to play miniature golf. It was a really good time. It was only $1 per kid and they each got a soda, chips, hot dog, and an attendance prize. My kids names were called pretty quickly for the prizes and they got some of the better stuff, but then one was last and they got bubbles. Soooo, everyone cried b/c they didn't get bubbles....so, at the end, to shut them up, I had to trade in their good prizes for a bottle of bubbles. Silly kids!

As for the rest of the weekend, the next morning, I took the kids to Ann's house for a few hours so Jim and I could finish painting the living room. It looks really good. We got new baby gates (not sure when we'll ever be able to get rid of the gates!) and new curtains. We bought all new white doors and Billy put them in for us. They look really good. We just have one left that was on back order, then the front door. Next up is baseboard, carpet, furniture and lamps! I can't wait to be done with it. It looks a lot more modern now. My mom made us a valance for the kitchen window, which I still need to hang. She has also been reupholstering our kitchen chairs. They look great! Thanks Mom for doing all that stuff---don't know what we would do without you :) Oh, and thanks to Billy too!!!

Cassie was really into the golfing. Jimmy kept trying to throw his ball in the water and was swinging his club. Jenna liked it too. Alli was there playing with Cali the whole time, so she loved it. Ann and her boys came and so did Katie and her kids. I had a good night and Jim got a lot of painting done.
Libby

Matt

Introducing...Mr. & Mrs. Cory Nix

2010-07-12T21:10:00.010-05:00

I'm a little behind in posting, once again! My niece, Katie, married Cory back on June 11th. The wedding was beautiful and soooo much fun. Of course, all the weddings in our family are ALWAYS a blast! I didn't even drink that much, but was soooo sick and hung over the next day...actually the next few days...we went from the wedding, to packing, to leaving for Tunica the next day for a short gambling trip. Anyway, back on the wedding.....

Congratulations, Katie and Cory. Welcome to the family Cory! We love you both and your two beautiful children!!! And the new one too :)

We took Alli to the wedding, but got a sitter for the triplets. They will get to experience their first wedding when Jason and Kristen get married this fall. She had so much fun dancing and playing with her cousins! I wasn't able to get many ceremony pictures because my camera kept acting up.
Ken and Katie
Libby, Cory, & Cali
Mom walking down the aisle. Alli thought she should be a part of the wedding party ;)
Cory and Kenny
Libby and Jane
The happy parents!
Ken and Jane
Jane, Kelly, and Liz
Katie and Libby
Kelly and Cory
All the Single Ladies.....
Marissa
Me and Liz
Janie and Greg
Courtney, Amy, Billy, and Angela
Me and Jim
Alli dancing with Billy
Grandma and Alli - love this picture!

Nashville Trip

2010-07-10T21:02:00.014-05:00

At the end of June, we went to visit my sister and her family in Nashville for the weekend. We didn't get a chance to go anywhere last year, so this was our first time back in 2 years. We left early Saturday morning and the kids were very good on the drive there. We went straight to Jackie's house in hopes to go swimming, but there were some pretty bad storms, so we had to wait a few hours.
Heading out
Bill just built a new music room for the kids, so of course my kids had to check it out....who knows...they might follow in their cousins footsteps!

Jenna
Jimmy
Cassie
Alli
Cassie and Jenna
Waiting for it to get sunny and for the thunder/lightning to stop
We did make it to the pool. Jimmy didn't like it at first..took him about an hour to warm up, but then he did great.
I think at this point, Jimmy was still clinging to me.

Cassie showing me how she puts her head in the water
Jenna - she loves to swim...she is the only one that really understands you can just float with the wings on and go where you want. She's pretty fearless in the water.
Jim
Alli - her lessons are paying off...she is not scared of the water at all. She never really was, but she is pretty daring now and always wants to go under and try to swim without her wings. Actually, last week at the pool, she was able to swim half way across on her own (the short side of the pool). We are still practicing :)
My little swimsuit model....I took a picture of her, and she was like, "No, Mom, wait...let me do this one!!" Cracks me up!
Then....I start taking pictures of Jenna and she, having to be just like Alli, says, "No, do it like this!" "This Way!!!!" in her loud, high-pitched voice.
Then I go to Cassie...she can be so stubborn sometimes...once she has her mind set, she doesn't budge. She decided she didn't want any pictures...so she refused to look up at me, no matter how many times I tried to get her to look at me. She's so funny when she gets like that too b/c she knows she is just trying to piss us off ;)
We didn't stay at Jackie's b/c Alli seems to be pretty allergic to dogs lately, so we didn't want to chance it or make her uncomfortable. So, we got Jackie's Marriott discount... the area we stayed in seemed really cool....tons of restaurants, etc. right near Vanderbilt University. Of course, we were so tired, we didn't really get to check it out. We hung out at the hotel waiting for the rest of the family to get there the next day. The kids were really good, but its pretty hard to keep 4 kids 4 and under quiet. They just don't really understand a quiet voice :)
On Sunday, my mom, two sisters and their families came down too....we went to see Pearl Heart sing at AlexFest. It was a free outside show in honor of Jeff Steele's son that passed away a few years back. It was HHHHOOOTTT!!!! We were only there for a little bit to see my nieces sing, but then went back to the hotel. We were hoping to make it back a little later, but we were just too tired, so we gave the kids naps and hung out at the pool a little later that night.

Pearl Heart even had a special guest with them on stage...their little brother, Billy, playing the fiddle. They all rocked it, like usual!

When walking to the playground, they saw some puppies, so they wanted to pet them and play with them. They were all having fun at the playground until Jimmy decided he would pick up a bee and then it stung him on his thumb. It was all sort of downhill from there....
Triplets had their own bed in the second hotel....
And Alli got to sleep with Mommy and Daddy. Of course, she made me take her picture in bed b/c I took one of Jen, Jim, & Cass all together
Jenna wearing Jackie D's cowboy hat
Liz teaching Alli how to play some game on her phone

Overall, we had a great trip! We can't wait to go on another vacation next year (on top of another trip to Nashville). We were really impressed with how good the kids were in the car and the hotel.

Happy Father's Day!!

2010-06-29T23:40:00.008-05:00

Happy Father's Day to the Best Daddy in the Whole Wide World!

The kids gave Daddy all of their presents to open. We got ready and went to Pawnee. We had a really good time enjoying the day with Jim's family. Good food and we all went swimming too.
Alli picked out the card....It was Spongebob and it even came with a sticker!
Jimmy didn't like the pool too much....
But he loved the hose!!!!
Spraying Cody
The kids all played together so good!!!
Uncle Steve showed up on his horse, Fred.
All of the guys (Steve, Grandpa, Jason, Jim, Jimmy, Jim(Dad))
More pool pics
Jimmy playing in the sand

Cassie....before and after her chocolate chip cookie
What are you staring at?
Seriously, what???

2 1/2 Year Report

2010-06-19T22:35:00.006-05:00

Ann came over a few weeks ago so the kids could play. She was snapping pictures of all of the kids. I'll use them as their 2 1/2 year pictures....don't they look great? With the filters and the editing, etc, she did a great job....they look professional to me :) Very talented, Ann! Of course, with subjects like these, you know they are going to be cute no matter what :)

Alli learned how to 'pump' on the swing...one less kid to push :)
Jenna, Cassie, & Matt
Jenna Catherine
2 1/2 years
Weight - 25lbs 2oz (10%)
Height - 33 3/4 in (25%)

Cassandra Lauren
2 1/2 years
Weight - 27lbs 4oz (40%)
Height - 33 1/4 in (10%)

I love this smile!
James Lynn
2 1/2 years
Weight - 33lbs 6oz (85%)
Height - 35 3/4 in (50%)...finally average height!!!

The Biggest Losers

2010-06-10T23:55:00.002-05:00

Alli's Dance Recital

2010-06-10T23:16:00.004-05:00

Wow! This kid is expensive! Besides the weekly classes, the recital tickets, fees, costume, professional pictures, and video (DVD), I think I spent a small fortune. But she is so darn cute and I think she is pretty good at it. Hopefully Mom isn't reading thinking "some of these parents (Chrissy&Jim) should save their money" ;) So, dance ended on Sunday, I signed her up for soccer for St. Ferdinand on Sunday and then she started her swim lessons on Monday. I think we are going to be in for a surprise when the triplets start doing stuff in the next year or two. Busy and Broke!

She did great at the recital. She danced to "Diamonds are a Girls Best Friend" and "Put on a Happy Face" Thanks to Ann for watching Jenna, Jimmy, & Cassie for the 3 hrs.
Of course she got her favorite meal!

Summer, Summer, Summertime!!!!!!

2010-06-02T20:44:00.003-05:00

We had a great Memorial Day weekend. That Friday, my good friend was going to babysit for us so Jim and I could go out, but Jenna ended up getting sick, so we had to cancel her. I ended up going shopping with Alli and got some new clothes. That was fun for me, not so much for Jim. But he got to play his new game. Saturday, we went to Fast Eddies for Jamie's birthday.....always fun there! But we didn't stay too late b/c Jim wasn't drinking. Sunday, Jim's parents came over and we all went to the pool. I love summer!!!!!!!!!! The kids had so much fun and were very good. I hope we get to take them back soon. We stayed for an hour with them, came home and put them to sleep, then I went back by myself for an hour. We grilled and my mom came over too. Monday, we went to my brother Billy's house for his annual bbq. It was a lot of fun, but it seems to rain every time we are there for a holiday. Kids were good though. Jim and I had a pretty relaxed weekend. The kids are starting to have so much fun when we go out-they aren't being as clingy to us as they used to be....they kind of run off and play now.
Cassie was a little scared at first, but she always is the last to warm up to something new. She loved it after a few minutes.
Splashing each other in the baby pool

Cute kids!

2010-06-02T20:42:00.004-05:00

I'm always scared when its too quiet in the other room. Usually they are painting themselves like Indians with Desitin, or jumping off the couches, or ripping up books, or coloring the walls, or pulling all the wipes out of the container, or pulling the border off their wall, or pulling all the clothes off the hangers in their closet.....the list goes on and on and on. Sometimes this is all in one day :)

But last week I looked in from the kitchen and my three sweet little angels were sitting together watching Barney. They were so cute..I think that might be the first time they ever did something like that. Usually, when their legs are even close to the other, they start screaming about it. Of course, I had to get the camera out and they didn't even all run away. They sat and said "Cheese" for me :) I love it!

Happy 30th Birthday, Jason!

2010-06-02T20:35:00.006-05:00

May 22, 2010
Kristen set up a surprise dinner/birthday party for Jason's 30th. We drove up to Springfield to spend some time with the family. I was excited b/c it was the triplets 1st dinner at a restaurant besides McDonald's or Bread Co. They behave so well when we take them places. Alli loves to hang out and see everyone, even though she can't usually eat when we go places b/c of the milk allergy. We never know when a milk ingredient is going to be slipped in. Anyway, the kids had a great time, food was good, although we think Jim did some sort of allergic reaction to the shrimp he ate. I was so full the whole drive home!

Jenna wanted me to take a picture of her....she said, "Aaahhh.....CHEEEZZZZEEE....MEEEE!!"
Then when Jimmy realized how cute we thought Jenna was, he had to ham it up too :)

Grandma G enjoying her strawberry margarita
Jason and the Birthday Boy
Kristen and Jason
Me, Jimmy, and Alli
Jimmy and Mommy
Makenzie and Alli
Cassie and Daddy
Cody blowing out Jason's candles

Jason blowing out ALL of his candles

Sprinkler Fun!

2010-06-02T20:20:00.004-05:00

May 22, 2009 -
We were having such nice weather the past two weeks...pool wasn't quite opened yet, but we got the new sprinkler out. The kids had a lot of fun.....Cassie, of course, was a little scared/nervous. She takes a little while to warm up to new stuff :) And I love all of their new cute little swim trunks! Gotta love Target!

Jenna - not liking the water right in her face
Cassie - had more fun on the swingset than with the sprinkler

Big sister taking charge of the hose

2010-06-01T17:10:00.002-05:00

A few updates -I wrote this about a week or two ago and just never posted it. Its a little out of date, but thought I would post anyway since I typed it up :)

Cassie started peeing on the potty about a 6 weeks ago. Both her and Jenna are doing good, but still not out of diapers/pull ups. I know I need to just let them run around naked or something to get them fully trained, but it seems like we never have time. Jimmy still has no clue, but likes to try b/c his sisters are, but its more annoying than anything. He sits on the potty, doesn't pee. Stands up, pees on the floor. I sit him back down on the potty, he doesn't go. Stands back up, "I pee". Once again, all over the floor. So I send him out of the bathroom b/c its already crowded with me and the other girls. So he runs out and pees on the carpet. I wish he would just realize he isn't ready and keep the diaper on :) UPDATE: Jimmy did pee on the potty a week ago Sunday....but that was the only time so far and he did get right up, go in the hallway and pee some more on the carpet :) Yay, Jimmy!

I love listening to the kids say new words. It's just funny what they pick up. About two weeks ago, I brought home dinner and Jenna was so excited to be eating 'Tico Bell'. She sounded so sweet saying it.

Seems like they are starting to play together a little better. And I love watching Alli play with them b/c they love to copy and imitate her, whether with singing/dancing, or just reading, or playing with the toys. We've been going to the park on my off days. Trying new playgrounds each time. They have so much fun when we go and I'm really surprised at how good they are at climbing. They scare me to death on the playground, but seems like they are okay. We have had so much rain though lately...I think they 16 of the last 20 days. Makes it hard to find fun stuff to do to keep busy. Another update: Its been sunny lately (I wrote that about two weeks ago) and we have been hanging out outside again!

Alli had her last day of 3 year old preschool two weeks ago. We went to her teacher's retirement celebration. Next week is her dance recital. She is going to look so cute :) We are taking a break from dance in the summer. She tells me she wants to play soccer and tennis. Soccer is in the fall, so I might try to sign her up for tennis lessons in July through Hazelwood. She also starts swim lessons the first week in June (if White Birch reopens soon--pipe break). I really hope she does good so I don't have to be with her in the water all of the time...too cold at the beginning of summer. She is finished with speech until next school year...hopefully she won't be in it very long next year.

Daddy & Alli's Date Night

2010-04-24T11:14:00.004-05:00

Jim took Alli to the Cardinal game about 2 weeks ago. They were a little late getting there b/c Alli remembered getting her picture taken in front of the fountain, so she thought she needed another one.
They took a trip to see Fredbird
Watched a few innings of the game
Went to the batting cages
And then decided to take a bike ride back to the car

All in all, I think they had a fun night. They were home by the 8th inning and Jim fell asleep before the game even ended!

Tree Climbing

2010-04-24T11:11:00.002-05:00

We've really been enjoying the warmer weather lately. Teaching Alli how to climb a tree. She likes to just sit up there and watch her brother and sisters play, and of course take pictures :)

Twinkle Twinkle....starring....Cassie!

2010-04-21T16:58:00.002-05:00

Cassie loves to sing REALLY LOUD! She also gets Twinkle Twinkle mixed up with Baa Baa Black Sheep

Opening Day 2010

2010-04-16T22:37:00.007-05:00

Fun times again! We love Cardinal season! Cards won! Thanks for watching the kids, Lynn!
Jane, Ann, & Me
Sheila, Me, Amy, Dawn, Ann, & Janet
Jason and Ann
Jamie, Devan, Janet, Will, & Morgan
Jason and Jim
Jen Z., Ann, & ?
Mike D. & Katie
Heather, Kenny, Murphy, & Ian
Me and Jim
Janet, Me, Jane, & Liz
Me and Jane
Jimmy and my goofball, Alli :)
Alli :)
A friend of mine edited my other picture...I think it turned out neat!

Girl's First Haircuts

2010-04-16T22:30:00.003-05:00

I figured it was about time to have Aunt Jackie cut their hair. It was getting a little straggly (sp?). She didn't cut much off, but it still looks better. She cut Alli and Jimmy's too---they all did so good.

I love her expression on this one!

Easter Sunday

2010-04-16T21:34:00.009-05:00

We had a good Easter. We started off at Sacred Heart with Jackie and family. It was nice to have a few extra hands. The kids were well behaved, but Mass was a little long. It was sort of funny...there was a set of 8 year old triplets sitting 2 pews behind us at church.

Then we went over to Mom's house for lunch and the Easter Egg Hunt. I always have fun at Mom's house. Kids needed a nap though, so we left around 2:30.

The kids waking up to their baskets from the Easter Bunny - they ate so much candy that day!
Mom bought Libby a new outfit :) Look at them legs!!!!
Playing on the rocking horse....this thing is OLD!

Liz and Jenna playing around
Jimmy being cute
All of Mom's grandchildren (28) and 2 of her great-grandchildren (missing Cali)
Egg Hunt
Uncle Brian...Alli wants to know why your baby (Sam) has so many eggs...she says you cheated b/c he didn't pick them all up himself ;)
Billy and Michael
Sully
Some of the grandkids that are too old for the egg hunt.....Amy - Angela
Janie, Katie, Heather, Kenny
Checking out the loot......

Family pics

Sully, Gina, Brian, Sam
Me, Jim, Jimmy, Alli, Cassie, & JennaKatie, Michael, Libby, Kenny, Cory, Heather, Jackie, Ken, Jane, Janie, Greg, Cory, Katie, & Jenny
Angela, Billy, Bill, Jackie, Amy, & Courtney
Jeremy, Jacob, Billy, Kelly, Billy, Henry, Liz, Lexi, & Marissa
Ann, Matthew, Michael, Christopher, & Dan
Mom, Ann, Dad, Jackie, Billy, Me, Jane, & Brian
All of us with Dad
Little stinkers keep going out in the garage from the kitchen....then I have to chase them all back inside. And by the time I get one in and go to get another, the first one is going back outside!
Jenna, Jimmy, & Cassie

Coloring Easter Eggs

2010-04-16T21:24:00.004-05:00

We did this pretty quickly this year to just get it done and over. It was sort of a pain, but always makes for cute pictures. This is the first time the triplets did it. There eggs were so cracked by the end of the 20 mins...they kept dropping them. Alli had fun, but she didn't think she got to dye enough eggs.

Happy Birthday Daddy! 35!!!!

2010-04-16T21:09:00.002-05:00

The kids got him a t-shirt of their favorite----SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS!!

Wheels on the Bus

2010-04-16T20:51:00.002-05:00

The kids new favorite song (or I guess they've been singing it a few weeks now). They love the Barney DVD and Cassie is always saying 'one tine' b/c she wants to watch it one more time :)

Take 1

And MOM....no I didn't go on and tape them more....I was worried about my girls ;)

Take 2

Happy Opening Day 2010

2010-04-12T11:00:00.002-05:00

GO CARDS!!!!!!!!!!!!

Bunny Pics and the last few weeks

2010-03-24T22:37:00.017-05:00

We took the kids to see the Easter Bunny and have breakfast on Saturday at Gundaker. My friend Janet's mom is an agent there and she always invites us to stuff like this. Janet was there with her kids, Ann, Brian, Katie, and us. It was fun and the kids got to see a lot of their cousins.

We have been so busy lately. Or maybe I should say crazy, stressed, pulling our hair out! I think we are going through the terrible 2's, which really, individually, wouldn't be so bad. But, since there are 3 of them, it gets a little hectic and loud here. Lots of fighting! They are all so good, but I just wish they would get along better, or more often. When they do play together, they are so darn cute! They are starting to talk very good now. They repeat EVERYTHING and they also are singing songs, and starting to talk in sentences. Cassie's favorite song right now is Wheels on the Bus. They all sing it so cute though.

Three weeks ago, I got to go to Nashville to see Pearl Heart perform at a fundraiser for Jeffrey Steel's son who passed away a few years ago. Jim was nice enough to take a day off work and stay with the kids so I can go have some fun. It was a short trip, me, Mom, and Jane left on Thursday morning, got to the fundraiser at 5, then left the next morning at 10am, got home at about 3pm. Jim's mom came over to help him and see the kids, so hopefully he didn't have it too rough. We had so much fun though.....the girls sounded great (like always!), we got to see some other great musicians and we got to drink too much wine! I was pretty hung over the next day.
Jackie, Mom, Me, Amy, Angela, Courtney, Jane, & Bill
Jane, Mom, Me

Pearl Heart with Grandma - also, for all of you people on Facebook, you should become a fan of Pearl Heart!!!!!

All the girls---except Ann--wish you could have been there!

Mom, Jeff Steel, Jane, and Me

The day before I left, my mom called me at work and told me she was making breakfast for the kids before she got them out of their cribs, and in walks Jenna into the kitchen. Then Jimmy follows along! Oh, no! I knew the day was coming soon that they would be crawling out of their cribs. Cassie is our scaredy cat, so she was still in her crib. So, Jim and I went out and bought Alli a new bed (she was needing one b/c was getting too big for toddler bed anyway). She got twin bunk beds. Then the triplets were moved into toddler beds! This is where the craziness comes in. We have not been having fun with this at all! It takes them anywhere from 1-2 hrs for them to fall asleep at nap time and bed time. Lately, they haven't really been taking naps b/c by the time I get done screaming after 2 hrs, I figure its too late for a nap and hope they are extra tired at bed time...although, that doesn't seem to work very good either. Then we have babysitters here and the kids go right to sleep. Sometimes I swear that they hate me ;) Usually their naptime or when they go to bed at night, I get some time to myself to either work out, pay bills, clean, whatever.....hasn't been much of that lately! :(

Cassie
Jenna
Jimmy

Follow up to toddler beds....the past 4 nights, they have been going straight to bed with no problems! Yay! We still don't have naps down yet, but we found if we lay on the floor in front of all the beds, they have been falling asleep in about 20 mins. A lot better than the first two weeks!

NICU follow up - two weeks ago we took them to their 2 year follow up for St. John's. They did great. That was their last one. They are right on target with their peers that were born full term. Jenna was the best in her gross motor skills (jumping, dancing, climbing stairs, etc). Cassie was the best with her fine motor skills (holding pencils, eating with utensils, twisting lids off jars, stacking blocks). Jimmy did good too....not really sure what he excelled in, but he did stack all 11 blocks and they said no kids ever do that!

We celebrated St. Patrick's Day...well, not really, but I bought all of the kids new cute shirts to wear and made them some sugar cookies with green sprinkles. Stephanie babysat that day so she took lots of cute pics for me. Mom made us some corned beef and cabbage, which was soooo good! Even all of the kids liked it, especially Allison. She is on this health kick lately...she does my Biggest Loser CardioMax DVD all the time (way more than I do!!!) and loves to drink water and eat anything we tell her is healthy. She just wants to grow up to be so big. The other day, my mom made beef with gravy and I made some rice to go with it. I asked her if she wanted some twice, and she said "NO". Then about a minute later, she said all excited....Is it healthy??? I told her of course, and she went on to eat 2 servings of it! She cracks me up.

Pictures (courtesy of Steph :)
Oh yes...and as of yesterday (3/30), highchairs are gone!
Blurry, but thought Cassie looked cute in this picture
I just found this picture and thought it was so cute that Alli was trying to get Cassie to smile :)
I like this one too!

Its finally been getting warmer, so we've been playing outside a lot lately. The kids LOVE it out there. I do too b/c they don't seem to fight as much. Like they are now on this rainy day....playing blocks and just fighting and fighting! Ughhh!

Alli on her bike - she got this last Oct for her b-day and didn't really get to ride it, but she is so much better at it this year

Alli is doing great in school and also in her speech therapy. She used to always talk about her friend Delaney, but then I heard Delaney and Alli liked the same boy (Troy), so now she always talks about Allison T. I'm guessing Delaney won the boy. She loves to draw pictures for Allison T. all the time! They are laying all over the house. She is still going to dance once a week...her big recital will be in June. She gets to do 2 songs this year. Her little outfit is so cute....expensive, but cute! I still need to put on her video from last year!

The brakes on Jim's car started going out about 2 weeks ago, so instead of getting them fixed, we ended up getting a new car. I'm glad b/c Jim's car was old, it was a stick, and I couldn't drive it. Billy bought it for Jake and supposedly it was a cheap fix and they love it. I'm glad. We got almost 11 year out of it, so it really was a good car. And Jim deserved a new car....I've had 3 or 4 new cars since we've been together :)

2010 Chevy Malibu

Dancing

2010-03-12T19:10:00.002-06:00

Alli's 1st Tea Party

2010-03-03T20:34:00.004-06:00

My friend, Amy, had a birthday party for her daughter, Haley, at Sisters Tea Room in Fenton last Saturday. Alli and I went shopping and bought her a new party dress and some new shoes. She looked so cute. They all had so much fun playing dress up, putting on make up, etc. Then they went down for lunch. She had a lot of fun....wish all of us girlfriends could get together more often with our kids...everyone is always so busy. All of our girls are the same age and don't really know each other. Hopefully this summer!

Amy and Natalie
Natalie and Alli
She just kept finding more and more accessories - LOVE the hat!
The whole group
Haley (b-day girl), Natalie, and Alli
Lunchtime

Random Pics

2010-03-02T00:05:00.003-06:00

Ann's 4 boys came over for a short visit last week. Alli loves her cousins! So do Jenna, Jimmy, and Cassie.

Cassie, Jenna, Jimmy, Alli with Christopher

Alli wanted a picture with Mike & Matt so bad. They finally sat still for one.Cassie, Jenna, and Jimmy actually sitting still and cute for a picture :) Jenna still loves to put her blanky over her nose :)
Jim snapped this one....Cassie was burying Jenna and Jimmy with the toys. It usually starts that one might be crying, so the others bring that one a blanky. Next usually comes a doll or stuffed animal. Then books. Then toy after toy after toy until they are covered.
Daddy with his angels!
My little ballerina....isn't he so cute :) Usually when Alli comes home from dance, she is in dance mode and wants to dance around the living room. Of course they all want to be like their big sister!

Baby Boom!!!!

2010-03-01T23:48:00.003-06:00

Just thought I should formally congratulate all of my friends on my blog. Four of them have had babies in the last month! They are all SOOOO beautiful!!!

Rocco Flynn born on 1-14-2010 (Parents are Dawn and Nathan)

Matthew James born on 1-18-2010 (Parents are Amy and Kyle)
Aidan Christopher born on 2-10-2010 (Parents are Colleen and Nate)
Taylor Jae born on 2-11-2010 (Parents are Toni and Andy)