New found independence

He just turned 5. Such a "big boy!" But today, he became an even "bigger boy." He got breakfast (cereal) on the table for him and his brother while I slept in an extra 10 minutes - ahhhh nice. Then, tonight, my oldest child, my first born baby took a shower ALL BY HIMSELF. This may not seem like a big deal to any of you, but it's HUGE to a mother. It marks a whole new independence. I feel like I'm losing "my baby." He is growing up so fast. On top of that, after I left with his little brother to go on a "date," he brushed his teeth, went potty, tucked himself into bed (daddy fell asleep on the couch), and called me on my cell phone to say goodnight (he learned how to call before I left). WOW - now that is a day of accomplishment! It is a day that makes me feel elated and heartbroken at the same time. But if I get 10 minutes more of sleep in the morning tomorrow, I may not feel so heartbroken over his new skills :)

Double duty date

The boys have "chore charts" on which they earn stickers if they've completed their "chore" at the end of the day. So, tonight I decided I would take them out late (6:30 pm - woohoo!) for a date to the candy store to reward them for all the stickers on their charts this past week. I've always taken them out individually on dates, but never together, so I was looking forward to being with my little men. They were so excited to pick out Willy Wonka bars to win a "golden ticket." After they ate some chocolate, I took them to Walmart to put toys on their wish lists. I should have known to drive on home when they needed to be reminded a few times to behave BEFORE we got in the store. By the end of our time there, my blood pressure rose and both boys were crying because I cut our time short (due to not listening). They certainly influence each other to misbehave sometimes. FUN TIMES! At least I tried, right? I think I'll stick to one-on-one dates from now on.

Anyone seen "Zoolander?"

blogging inspiration

I follow a few blogs that are truly inspirational. However, I can't seem to express my thoughts so eloquently and effortlessly on here. My home is quiet, the perfect opportunity to share my thoughts. Yet, my mind is blank. It seems as though summer just began, and now it is half way over. We spend our time having fun in the pool or relaxing inside the air conditioning. I have been "under the weather" for a few days now. There is nothing worse than caring for others while suffering. My mom'll tell you that I am NOT a good patient. I think I've become stronger with each child I have. Enduring nausea and discomfort in pregnancy while caring for small children made me stronger (even though I moaned through it all). Enough randomness, I am off to have a good day (optimistically thinking)...

Good Ol' Fashioned GIRLS NIGHT OUT

I decided to celebrate my 33rd birthday with the wonderful women in my life (and some hard core booty shaking - haha). What a fun night! Thanks, ladies, for celebrating with me! Love ya!

This and That

I feel like I haven't blogged in so long. Life with the kiddos is keeping me busy :) Just wanted to share a few exciting/funny/scary moments...

First off, let me tell you just how silly and smart Elizabeth is. She is now crawling, pulling herself to standing, waving, saying "braba" (brother) and "Joja" (Joseph) all the time, eating everything in sight, and entertaining anyone she sees by making silly faces. She even knows to do "scrunch face" or "the look" on command, then she smiles. Check her out! :)

Joseph is now swimming! He completed a swimming lesson course this past week, and LOVES to swim with his face in the water. He can hold his breath under the water for 15 seconds. He is so proud of his new skill.

Matthew (and Joseph) started a "Playtime" class at the community center this past week, so I dropped my little 3 year old off for the first time. I was SO nervous about it. I told them he has problems articulating his words, and he just potty trained a few months ago, so he might need a little help. Matthew didn't even say goodbye to me. He was off and playing in no time. I think it helps to have his big brother there. He also has his good buddy, Jack, there, too. I'm so proud of him yet so sad to watch him leave me. He is definitely my "mama's boy."

I enjoy my children thoroughly. They bring me such overwhelming joy (and frustration at times LOL). Life doesn't get much better than this.

God Bless America!

Happy 4th of July everyone! Hope you had a fun, safe day. Thank you to all who have protected, who protect, and who will protect our freedom!