QOTW: September 16, 2011

Me:  Do you like watching flag football?
JP:  No.  I like playing it.

"I don't want a boy." {insert tears here}
Clare, when she found out Aunt Jennifer and Uncle Cory had a boy.

"We don't need to care what it is Clare, it's just a baby."
Anna-Laura, trying her hand at empathy?

"I knew it!"
Will, when he heard Uncle Cory say it was a boy.

"Is his last name Whitaker?"
John Paul asks.

What a fabulous way to end the week.  Sweet baby Hudson was born yesterday and the kids are clearly over the moon - we think Clare will warm up to him soon :)  We have lots of sports games this weekend and a BIG birthday celebration for Master Luke on Sunday.  Could it get any better?  Make it a great weekend.

QOTW: September 2, 2011

"Welcome to the big leagues, buddy."
Will, commenting about John Paul's leap from letter grades to number grades.

"That's alarious."
Clare, about pretty much everything.  Oh, and that's "alarious" as in, "hilarious."  Hilarious, I know.

"That's diculous."
Clare, on everything else.  I'm sensing a pattern here.

"On your mark, get set, GO!"
Scott to Luke every night.  Luke lines up at one end of the hallway, waits for Scott to say his thang and then little bit runs like lightening to the other side of the room and falls on top of John Paul.  Then, Clare of course, says....'that's alarious.'  Yes, yes it is.

"How did Will get his tinsles?"
Anna-Laura talking about Will getting pimples.  It's really just an irritated spot on his leg, but it took some detective work to figure out what she was talking about.  Then, Clare chimed in...

"I hope I don't get more chicken pops."
Me either, sweetheart.  Me either.

It will be a FANtastic weekend around here.  Aggie football kicks off - whoop - we're finishing up the painting in the family room and spending some time at the pool with family and friends.  This three-day weekend is such a gift.  I feel like I haven't blogged about anything other than sickness and Luke lately.  I have some catching up to do.  10-year-old trip?  Aggies leaving the Big 12?  Will and JP's flag football season?  So much to share.  Have a great weekend y'all.  See you Tuesday!

Dominican Sister Love

You've heard me rave about the Ann Arbor Dominicans we have here in our Diocese.  We love them and cherish their influence on our children.  Before we knew them, though, we were introduced to an equally fine bunch of Dominicans from Nashville.

Back in 2000, Scott and I emceed a teen retreat for 700 at our parish, "Destination Jesus."  Parishes from around the diocese attend and the following year, when we emceed again, a group from St. Cecilia Academy joined in the fun.  It was there I met Sr. Anna Laura (name ring a bell??)  I was eight and a half months pregnant and having the time of my life.  To be perfectly honest, I didn't know they made Sisters that:  1) young, 2) joyful, 3) prayerful and 4) personable.  Sr. Anna Laura was from Arkansas, had a twang like me and laughed like nobody's business.  When she shared her vocation story I fell even more in love with her as a person.  I guess you could say she and those Sisters taught me how to be a better wife - and soon - a better mom.

She returned to DJ, then I took a couple of trips back to Nashville to help put on their first "Teens with Christ" retreat and a day retreat at St. Cecilia.  Sr. Anna Laura was moved to a new mission, we moved back to Texas, but the friendship continued.  Somehow life always found us.  She presented at an Aggie Awakening, we made the trek to Sommerville.  We were on our way to Indy and stopped at the Motherhouse to say howdy.  The last time we saw each other was July 2004.  John Paul was a baby and Will was only 4.  A lifetime ago.  Our yearly Christmas letters kept us in touch and I was always grateful to receive hers.  When God gave us a baby girl, there was never a question what her name would be, Anna-Laura Grace.

Then, this Wednesday, my cell phone rings.  I didn't recognize the number, so I sent it to voicemail.  When I saw the message pop up, I listened and almost cried.  Sr. Anna Laura was on the other end of the line and she and two others Sisters were in Houston, preparing to launch Frassati Catholic High School.  Note to my Houstonian friends, if you live in Spring/Woodlands, the school opens Fall 2013.  Get your kids enrolled!!  I tell ya, that God works in mysterious ways.  Our running joke was that somehow we would pray them to Texas, guess it only took ten years :)  Now look at the Lonestar State, we have Dominicans everywhere!

Saturday morning, a sweet knock, a "Hey Whitaker's" and a lovely laugh rang through our house.  Sr. Anna Laura, Sr. John Paul and Sr. Mary Albert walked through our door.  It was a lovely afternoon of visiting, talking about the new high school and praying.  John Paul was stoked to have a Sister "named after him" (HA) and Clare kept wondering where her Sister might be.  The conversations we shared were awesome and it was great to see an old friend and meet two new ones.  Just before they left, we were able to attend the Saturday Vigil Mass.  We were given a great gift of the Sisters time on Saturday and it is one I will always cherish.  How blessed are we to know two amazing groups of Dominican Sisters.

I had to pause for a bit on Saturday.  Sr. Anna Laura and I were visting in the kitchen and it struck me.  So many people we love have walked through the doors of our home and shared a meal with us.  There are such precious memories of family and friends in our home.  Everytime I look around our home, I am reminded of those gifts.  I truly believe, when you invite someone into your home, you're inviting them into your life.

Our love is equal for both those groups of Sisters and my life has been permanently altered because of their presence.  Thanks be to God!

The Anna Laura's :)

Will, in deep conversation with Sr. John Paul and Sr. Mary Albert about something riveting...

The whole bunch!

I used to joke with Sr. Anna Laura that it was a good thing I met Scott before her, otherwise I might've joined them in Nashville.  But, Scott is THE reason why I converted to Catholicism and it's likely I would've never give the Sisters a second glance if I'd remained Protestant.  Life is as it should be.

Is that just total joy or what?

Back to school

Every year I think...

...summer will last longer.
...we will be more prepared for the first day.
...I will not cry.
...I can freeze time.
...my kids will always want their picture taken with the family.

And every year, I am wrong.

Summer was fabulous until we hit the 4th of July.  Then it just stank.  But, it is what it is.  No use lamenting all the things we didn't get to do.  Time to make up for it and have a great fall.  Flag football has already started for the boys and they are loving it.  Bring on the pigskin.

I've been feeling really cruddy since Friday.  Come to find out, I have bronchitis.  Yippee {sarcasm font}.  So, I did NOT put my cell phone by the back door.  I did NOT put the CF card back in the camera.  And, I did NOT make sure Clare's shoes were out.  Hence, we got to school and realized we left all three said items AT THE HOUSE.  Scott dashed home and made it back just in time for us to snap a few pics before sending everyone to their classrooms.  I guess the second day of school pictures will be just as cute.  I can already hear the kids groaning.  Tough stuff.  They're doing it anyway.  Perk of being the parent.

The tears didn't hit until mid-morning when I realized the craziness pre-empted them.  That was probably a good thing.  It's just hard (and awesome) to see your babies grow up, you know?

Anna-Laura bounded into our room at 6:45 this morning, dressed and ready to go.  I tell you now.  There is not a child on earth more excited about going to school than her.  I pray it is always that way.  Even though the boys grumbled a little bit, they were pretty excited to see their friends and meet their teachers, too.  JP was over the moon when he spotted the word search (his all-time favorite thing to do) on his desk.  The teacher even overheard him say at orientation how he always sat in the back and so she moved him right up front.  Now that was thoughtful.  Will, I'm sure, just wanted to die when I summoned him from his desk to take a picture.  I'll be forgiven at pick-up, I hope.  I just couldn't let the first day go by without snapping a photo.

I pray this year is an awesome one.  Those kids of mine are pretty special and I look forward to inviting three new teachers to join our family this year.  I hope your first day went as beautifully!

Oh, may I add that Clare was NOT having this photo?  Her foot hurt so we all just went to where she was standing and took the photo anyway.  A grumpy Clare is better than no Clare!

QOTW: August 5, 2011

This is really more of story.  A couple of days ago, I got the kids started on lunch while I washed dishes.  The boys were being all "creative" with their pretzel sticks and spelling out words.  Just before I pat myself on the back, I looked down to see John Paul's word...

PEE

"What, Mom?" he said, as he quickly ate the "p".  It says "EE".

I couldn't even hide my laughter.  That was pretty funny, buddy.

"So when you're big like me, your brain is bigger and you can put more stuff in it."
John Paul, reasoning why Luke just didn't understand as much as he did.

"I have book reporters block."
Will trying to explain to me why he still hadn't finished his summer book reports for school.  Nice try, sir.  Get to work.

"Caweee."
Luke, trying to say "call me".  The kids saw it in a movie and Luke picked up the hand motion and the saying.  So cute.

I am so hopeful that the sickness has truly left the building.  July just stunk. it. up.  ALG's repeat x-rays are still showing some pneumonia, so we'll repeat them again in another couple of weeks.  All in all, though, everyone is feeling pretty good.  We have a fun weekend ahead, a little Aggie Catholic get together, a little school pant hemming and some family time.  My heart is happy/sad that summer is almost over.  Just one more week!  EEK.

Make it a great weekend.  See y'all Monday.

Sit Rep: Sickopalypse 2011

For my military-loving friends, here's our Sit Rep (Situation Report):

Clare, did in fact, have the chicken pox.  She scratched the area so badly it became a staph infection.  ACTION:  Taking bleach baths every night x3, bleaching the tub afterward, along with her bed, toys and towels and on antibiotics for seven days.

Will and John Paul had a nasty strain of bacterial pneumonia.  ACTION:  On antibiotics for 10 days and we're watching them like hawks to make sure they COVER THEIR MOUTHS when they cough. 

Anna-Laura got the worst of it.  Her bacterial pneumonia turned into all-out pneumonia.  ACTION:  Her first round of antibiotics was still resulting in horrific fevers (103 and above), so in addition to her 10-day treatment, she also had a shot of antibiotics last night.  If that doesn't work, it's off to the hospital we go.  We head back to the doctor in the AM to get the verdict.

By no small miracle, Luke is still well and doing beautifully in therapy.

Scott and I are sortof on the verge of losing our sanity.  But other than that minor detail, Dr Pepper and the gym are keeping us off the ledge.  I really should've just posted a one word description of life here the last couple of weeks:  Seriously???!!

So, I did this thing...

I may be opinionated, but I don't usually call the radio and let 'er loose.  On Friday afternoon, I did just that.

You see, a sweet friend called and told me there was quite an animated discussion about Harry Potter on our local Catholic radio here in town.  It was a national show, but broadcast on our local affiliate.  At first, I was like, "Oh, I'll tune in and see what they're saying."  I figured there would be equal play and I was curious as to how the discussion was going.  After a few minutes, I'll be honest.  I was horrified at what they were saying.  And I quote...

"The Harry Potter series is an invitation to sin."

"After reading Harry Potter, droves of young people are delving into the occult, researching real witchcraft and wizadry and turning to Wicca."

"Parents would be ill-advised and irresponsible to let their children not just read the series, but watch the movies."

"Harry Potter is not Christ-like, he is evil and JK Rowling has woven a fascinating tale of evil."

Hold up there, skippy.

You know how you get all trembly because you are so frustrated and are trying to arrange your thoughts in an articulate manner?  That was me.  I dialed and after hearing my counter-argument, they patched me right through.  I'm guessing I was either 1) good for ratings or 2) a poor soul they could beat up on, or 3) both.

"So, Kathryn from Austin, tell us your thoughts on the Harry Potter series."

And I did.  Hopefully eloquently.  I mentioned that the series uses magic as a conduit, but that the real issue at hand is the point of the book:  good vs. evil and love vs. hate.  End of story.  How Scott and I've seen it as an invitation to talk with Will about evil in the world and how to confront it, battle it and ultimately be a disciple of Christ.  And, how we look forward to reading the books and watching the movies with all five of our children.

That did it.  That's when the priest said parents were being led astray and five years down the road my kids would most likely be on a path to championing the occult cause.

For the love.  I wanted to respond, but they cut me off.

Let's shoot straight, shall we?  Our job as parents is to provide experiences for our children to learn.  To catch them when they screw up (and they will) and lead them to make good choices.  We should show them how to constantly ask themselves, "Is what I'm doing glorifying God or glorifying the Devil."  For every parent, that is a constant struggle.  No one choice is the right choice for every family, for every child, for every situation.

I'm reminded of my own misgivings.  I am a Christian, but I have missed the mark so many times.  Yet, somehow, the learning experiences, the guidance of my parents and ultimately the grace of God has allowed me to decipher right from wrong, good versus evil.  But sometimes I have to be wrong and experience evil before I get to right and good.

There was the time in high school when my then-boyfriend was home from college.  He picked me up for a date and before things got rolling he asked if I wanted to smoke a joint.  Um...NO.  Take me home.  Date over.  Never talked since.  Clearly, I made a bad choice in going out with him, but by the grace of God I got out of that car.

In college, during my time as a 4-H camp program staff, Scott came up to visit.  While he was getting ready in the bathroom, I turned on the TV, fell asleep on the bed and then was summoned to the director's office.  The TV was mistaken for "inappropriate behavior" and I nearly lost my scholarship.  That's when I learned the harsh lesson of "perception is reality" no matter how jacked up it may be.

As a mom, I could write my own book series of my missteps.  But let's not go there.

Point being?  I'm hearing a lot of talk about how evil Harry Potter is...from people who have never read the series or watched the movies.  From what they've heard on the radio, Googled or perceived the series to be.

That sure sounds a lot like what non-Christians say about Christianity.

If you've read the series you've seen the beauty in Harry's final sacrifice.  You've learned to fall in love with his friendship - true and pure - with Ron and Hermoine.  You've seen how Voldemort's way (complete with his pesky SERPENT) never works no matter how hard he tries.  You read about the magic, but it is the relationships that keep you hooked.  It is the love that makes you believe good can win.  And it does.  I say, don't be so quick to judge until you've read it for yourself.

We set firm boundaries for our children and set our standards high - real high.  But, keeping your kids in the bubble, sheltering them from the secular world is not the way Team Whitaker rolls.  How blessed are Scott and I that we get to have these discussions with Will while he's still living in our house.  We get to help form the conscience, shape the character.  In eight short years, those lessons will be cemented.  Our day-to-day job as parents will have ceased.  What kind of a young adult will we have created?  One who shies away from everything that doesn't conform to his thinking?  Or, one who meets people where they are and shines as a Christ-like example?  I hope the latter.  I'm praying for it.

QOTW: July 15, 2011

"Mom! Mom!"
Master Luke finally busted out with the word I've been praying for all of 21 months.  Then, he followed it up with about a dozen kisses.  I did tear up, for the record.  Now, when I ask him, "What's my name?" He proudly says, "MOM," with a big smile.  That makes two of us, buddy.

"I hope I make it to the eighth grade."
John Paul.  Where does he come up with this stuff?

"Do you ever wonder if I'm going to stop talking?"
John Paul, again. 

"I have lots of things to say, don't I Mom?"
John Paul.  Yes, son, you do.

"So, we'll see you in a year."
Luke's nephrologist.  Love that man.  I'll have a full update with pictures next week!

"Being sick sure does stink."
Will.  Who then so kindly shared his icks with John Paul and Anna-Laura.  They've all had fevers and hacking coughs.  The doc says it's just a virus.  And that the incubation period is 7-10 days.  Awe-some.  We told Will if we had to, we'd leave him at home while we went to HP.  Kidding, only kidding.  Maybe.  It looks like he's on the mend, though, so we're in the clear.

"12 more hours!!!!"
Scott.  I think he's more excited than Will and I combined about seeing Harry Potter tonight.  It should be lots of fun.

We have a little cinema, a little home improvement, a little decluttering and a little family time on tap these next few days.  Make it a great weekend!

Top Ten: Harry Potter, I Heart You!

{This was supposed to post yesterday.  Blogger.  Sigh.}

If you follow me on Twitter or are my friend on FB, it comes as no surprise as to how much I love all things Harry Potter.  I have my ten-year-old to thank for that love.

When Will was in second grade, we finally caved and let him read book one.  It wasn't because we thought there was anything sinister about the series, it's just that Will is a very advanced reader.  Our challenge has always been finding age appropriate material at his reading level.  But, after doing a little research and reading the first few chapters, Scott and I gave him the green light.  He's never looked back.  He read the entire seven-book series FIVE times.  As is the rule in our house, he had to read the books before he watched the movies.

{Disclaimer:  I don't think I need to say "spoiler alert", but should I inadvertently let something slip, please forgive me.}

Will, Halloween 2010

Admittedly, the first four books are mostly innocent, not too scary, reading.  In book five, the series turns a little darker (as do the movies) and we didn't allow Will to watch those movies until just this year.  And, certainly, none of our other children have read or watched any HP just yet.  As long as we feel they're mature enough, we'll let them all begin the series in second grade.

Honestly, I just can't say enough good things about the world of Harry Potter.  Let me share the love, shall I?

TOP TEN:  THINGS I LOVE ABOUT HARRY POTTER

1.  It is a classic tale of good vs. evil, love vs. hate.  There have been many an intellectual conversation we've had with Will as we discect the series.

2.  It is superbly written.  I'm all for a good plot, but one that has outstanding character development and solid and believable story lines is a winner in my book.  Bravo, JK Rowling.  Bravo.

3.  Hermoine, one of Harry's best friends, is such a great role model for my girls. I look forward to reading the book with them and seeing it through a girl's eyes.  That should be loads of fun.

4.  For the record, I was right all along about Snape.  If you haven't read the series, I'll just let that statement stand on its own.

5.  It is one of those series that defines a childhood, in a good way.  Rarely does a series come along that captures so much of what we try to teach our children.  When I originally heard "witches and wizards" I started thinking "Wicked Witch of the West" from "The Wizard of Oz".  Yeah, this is nothing like that.  No crooked noses and warts (well maybe a wart or two), but I never dreamed there would be the folly between twins Fred and George, the love of Ron's mom, the bond between Sirius and Harry, the innocence of Luna, the admiration of Dumbledore or the selflessness of Neville.

6.  I love how everytime I re-read a book, I read something new.  I swear JK slips in new things when I'm not looking.  Scott and Will swear it's because I read too fast.  If memory serves me correctly, I read the entire series in a little under two weeks.  Benefit of waiting until all the books are out!

7.  It breaks my heart to think that Harry never really knew his parents, especially his mom.  When I think of my own children and my relationship with them I am reminded of what a unique bond that is.  Yet, as Neville so beautifully says, "May those that died live within our hearts."  It is this piece of the story that reminds me sometimes life is not perfect, yet it's still worth living.

8.  If my 17-year-old EVER runs away from home to save the world, I will cut off his toes.  But, it's totally okay that Harry, Hermoine and Ron do it.  They have wands, for goodness sake!

9.  I love that the last book made me cry.  By nature, not a big crier over things like TV commercials, E.T. or touching documentaries.  I'm touched, but I rarely shed a tear over that stuff.  Perhaps it was because I really felt like I'd come to know the characters.  That last book got me.  I'm going to be a hot mess at tomorrow's movie.  Better take some kleenex.

10.  I think it's darn near awesome we've been able to see two of the movies in the theatre with Will...yet, it makes me sad that we don't get to do that with the others.  Guess we'll just have to crank the BluRay, pop some popcorn and do the best we can at home!

Raise your wand to literature greatness!

DEEP

Each spring, our kids take the private school equivalent of the TAKS standardized tests - the ITBS (Iowa Test of Basic Skills).  If your child scores above the 95% overall, they are invited to participate in a summer program for children who are gifted and talented.

Back in Dumas during my elementary school days, I think that consisted of flower arranging and a here's how to count to 10 in French!  We were extremely proud of Will for making such high marks and qualifying for the three-week camp.

They had 47 courses in which to choose (wow!) and Will's top choices ended up making the cut.  We didn't give him any limits, we just told him to choose what he loved.  I suppose we could've told him to only choose science or math courses, but as providence would have it, Will's courses were quite well rounded and included a little history, a little math and a little art.

For three weeks, he studied Greek Mythology, Young Architects and DEEP Memories.  For camp first-timers, he also enjoyed a "Perspectives" class which focused on how people learn.  He loved every class.  On Fridays, they were able to participate in four different "mini-classes".  His included Fundamentals of Sport, It Matters, Mystery Class and Watercolor Techniques.

"Thank goodness I didn't get Jewelry Making, Mom.  No offense," he added.

"None taken, my dear.  Just remember, your uncle owns his own jewelry business and designs beautiful pieces.  There's nothing unmanly about that," I replied.

Honestly, I think there was a three-way tie for his classes.  But, if I had to declare a winner, I'd say Young Architects.  In the class, they designed their "Dream House," calculated the square footage and the price for flooring, molding and other construction components.  Once designed, they drew it to scale and then calculated its current market value.  At just over $400,000, and complete with a pizziera, basketball court and ice cream parlor, Will's house would be ANY person's dream.  Outstanding job, buddy.

In Greek Mythology, he was thrilled to have his former Texas history teacher.  He was already totally into the Percy Jackson series, so this class was right up his alley.  But, it did remind me I need to brush up on my Greek gods and goddesses :)  Persephone is why we have seasons, right?!

DEEP Memories was probably the most meaningful and heartfelt choice.  The students were asked to scrapbook something of importance...Will chose his 10-year-old trip to D.C. and then presented the book to Scott as a surprise for Father's Day.  What a big heart.  And, the book was so well done!

He's already excited about going back next summer (this spring's scores qualified him again) and we are extremely proud of his growing imagination, love of learning and happy spirit.

Golf Camp!

Last week, the bigs went to golf camp.  Truly, it's one of my favorites.  The coaches really focus on the fundamentals of the game - both the physical and the mental.  Golf is a polite sport and Coach Lonny and crew really *drive* that home.  Sorry, couldn't help myself.

Will was BEGGING me to not take this picture.  Hasn't he learned anything?  He got the stank eye from me and promptly smiled because he knew the sooner he did, the sooner the agony would be over.  Someday he will thank me for this, right?  RIGHT??

We are grateful for their wonderful coaches, namely Head Coach Lonny and his wonderful assistant, JB. 

After camp on Friday, we headed around the corner and enjoyed some really wonderful pool time.  For the better part of the hour, it was just us, one other family of two and the lifeguard.  That's it.  I was able to get in the pool with the kids and watch them all and know that everyone was safe.  We all had a great time playing.  It was really lovely.  You know, one of those good mom days.  We need those every once in a while, don't we?

QOTW: July 1, 2011

"We've been upstairs frying our brains out playing Monopoly."
Will trying to tell me just how intense the game had been.

"This is SO excitin'!"
Clare, when we pulled up to her favorite restaurant, Chuy's, for her birthday.

It's been a good week, but I am SO grateful for a three-day weekend.  Happy birthday America!  Usually, a three-day weekend or any extended vacation means Scott has a Container Store project on the horizon.  This weekend is no different.  Raise a shelf and a drill to another organization project!  Make it a great weekend.

For kicks and grins

I thought it would be fun to show how we've "grown" since we first started VBS back in the day.  Cue the nostalgia music...

VBS 2006

Will (age 5), John Paul (age 2)

VBS 2007

My water broke on Wednesday and I had Clare a few hours later!

Will (6), John Paul (3), Anna-Laura (2), Clare (0)

VBS 2008

Will (7), John Paul (4), Anna-Laura (3) and Clare (1)

VBS 2009

Will (8), John Paul (5), Anna-Laura (4)

VBS 2010*

*when mommy's not involved, she forgets to take pictures!!

VBS 2011

John Paul (7), Anna-Laura (6), Clare (4)

Will (10) was at camp and Luke (1.5) was in the nursery!

QOTW: June 24, 2011

JP:  What time is it?
Will:  Time for yell practice.
Spoken like a true son of an Aggie yell leader.  Gig 'em, howdy and hullaballoo.

"This was the best day of my wife."
Clare after her first day of VBS.  Guess it was a hit.

"You know, babies have little butts."
Cute PKer at VBS when he saw Luke walk by.  I love kid perspective.  It's true!

"Luke just made my week."
Luke's occupational therapist after his visit this week.  More on THAT next week.  Luke has a big procedure at Dell on Tuesday afternoon.  Keep him (and us) in your prayers.

"Mrs. Whitaker, I need you to give me a call.  Will was involved in an incident at lunch."
That's never a call you want to get.  Seems as if some peer pressure led Will to make a bad choice.  It was a great teachable moment and while I am not a fan of bad choices by my children, I am grateful when they do them under my roof.  It gives us a chance to parent.  But, oh my.  Parenthood gets harder.  Potty training, sleep training, toddler tantrums and food wars are nothing compared to what God is starting to throw our way.  No wonder parents of older children pray so much!

It has been an AMAZING week at VBS.  I'll get a Monday post up about our week.  Thank you, God, for so many God sightings.  We have a birthday girl's party this weekend - yea for summer birthdays! - a baseball game with the boys and some sweet family time.  Make it a great weekend.

Happy (belated) Baptismal Anniversary Will!

I'm only a month late in recognizing it :)  Will, your baptismal day was so precious.  We were surrounded by so many friends and family.  Thinking of that day still bring a tear to the 'ol eye.  You were our only baby born and baptized in Indiana - that place holds a very special place in our hearts.

Love you buddy.

QOTW: School's out for summer!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I think that right there is our quote of the week.  That and this gem from John Paul...

"Dad, when do you get out of work for the summer?"

The 2010-2011 school year is officially over. I thought we were on a pretty good pace until January hit. Since then, we never hit the brakes. I'm now the mom of a 5th, 2nd, 1st and PK-er with a tiny toddler still in tow. Say it isn't so.
We were fortunate, as in "we totally hit the jackpot", with teachers this year.

Will and Mrs. H. (love. her.)
Favorite things about Mrs. H: She says thinks like "I'm all over that like a chicken on a cheeto", she is spunky and funny and sets the bar HIGH for her students, she has a classroom decorated in leopard print, she always makes you feel like the most important parent in the room. Yeah, we're going to miss her.

John Paul and Mrs. T
Favorite things about Mrs. T: She doesn't settle for monkey business, she really instills a love of reading and writing in her students, she expects her little people to show kindness, respect and love and she is quick to call you if there's a problem brewing. Yes, we've had a couple of P-T conferences with her :) She survived a John Paul year!

Anna-Laura and Mrs. M and Mrs. R.
Favorite things about them: They teach kindergarten, people! What's not to love??  They were especially helpful as we got Anna-Laura reading. I appreciated the extra effort and their loving approach.  It was fantastic.

Clare and Mrs. G and Mrs. L.
Favorite things about them:  Their love of 3yo's completely shined through each morning at drop off and again at pick up.  It takes a special person to have that kind of patience.  I so admired their creativity, their positivity and their faithfulness.

To take a new spin on teacher gifts this year, we gave them an "angelonia" flower they could plant in their gardens.  Is it obvious my new love affair with bell jars?  It's a beautiful flower and I thought the name was perfect.

We are looking forward to a slower pace, some great summer camps and time together as a family.  Bring on summertime!

Top Ten: Bob Bullock Museum!

Last Wednesday my super sweet husband took the day off work to watch the littles, while I enjoyed serving as a chaperone for the 4th grade field trip to the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum.

Heaven. 

I didn't have to cut up anyone's food, take anyone to the bathroom or worry about missing a naptime.  I had four boys in my group that were FAN-tastic.  In honor of the BIG trip, here's this week's...

TOP TEN:  THINGS I LOVED ABOUT THE 4TH GRADE FIELD TRIP

1.  The boys.  You couldn't have paid me $$$ to take a gaggle of giggly, dramatic girls.  But, I would have easily signed up to chaperone all 25 boys in a heartbeat.  They had boy bathroom humor, they swore the girls had cooties and laughed at any remotely sounding bodily noise.  I loved every minute.

2.  The IMAX.  We got to watch, "Texas:  The Big Picture".  Bonus that we were the first group in the museum so we had the place to ourselves for a good two hours.  Sa-weet.  Watching the movie made me want to stand up and belt out, "Yee Haw!  I'm from Texas!!"  Will is thankful that I did not.  It sure is great to be from the Lone Star State and this movie just affirmed why I love all things Texas.

3.  The Texas Spirit Theatre.  I don't want to give anything away here, but that theatre was a total hit - with kids and adults.  Very well done.

4.  Lunch.  I know, weird.  The food rocked it, but it was the visit from Nana, former Texas History teacher herself, that made lunch so great.  She was quizzing the boys with all sorts of trivia.  It was a hoot.  In Texas, kids learn about the state's history in all grades, but especially in 4th and 7th grades.  My mom was like the best TX history teacher evah.

Little trivia:  What was Austin's name before it became Austin?  (see answer below)

5.  The kids.  It was a total joy to see the kids enjoying themselves and learning along the way.  I was so impressed with their behavior (better than some of the high school kids that day!) and their courteousness toward one another and others.  It made me very proud to be an Angel.

6.  The Goddess of Liberty.  When Texas' State Capitol was originally built in 1888, this beauty sat atop the dome.  Back then, technology and building materials aren't what they are today.  And after 93 years of residence, she came down and took up permanent residence at the museum.  The goddess that sits atop the Capitol today is just a replica.  Random bit of trivia number two :)

7.  The Eucharist cabinet.  Way back in the corner of the first floor, the boys and I discovered a real gem.  It was in small display window next to some silverware!  This cabinet, a travelling Mass kit, was used to celebrate Mass in the early settlers homes.  Back then, they didn't have fancy churches like we do now.  When I asked the boys at the end of the day about their favorite part, they all said this.  It made me very, very proud!

8.  The cannon and cotton bales.  Up on the second floor, the boys gave me a real giggle.  There was a replica of a boat and a cannon.  Next to it all were stacks of "cotton bales."  The boys thought, "Hey, I bet those are soft" and they gave them a punch.  Many a boy was shaking his hand after that.  Not so soft, huh guys?  Boys. Crack. Me. Up.

9.  The van ride there and back.  Every time we stopped the van, the girls in front of us waved like crazy.  The guys tried to play it cool, but eventually they broke down and started waving.  I don't why I thought that was funny, but it got me giggling.

10.  Time with Will.  He still thinks it's cool to have me along.  He is such a good kid and I loved seeing him interact with his classmates.  Man, that kid is his father's son, with my smile, of course.

Answer:  Waterloo

Favorite Quote of the Day:  It STILL ain't braggin' if it's true.

What a weekend!

I don't know about you, but we had a really wonderful weekend doing all sorts of things and a little bit of nothing.  It was quite nice.

I will say, 0600 came mighty early this morning as we tried to get going for our last week of school.  Come on Friday!!

Our sweet, sweet babysitter Emily Frances graduated high school on Saturday and hosted an open house later in the day.  She is A&M bound this fall.  WHOOP.  She has a younger brother and sister who are equally wonderful with our kids.  There just aren't enough complimentary words to go around for Emily Frances and her family.  We love 'em.  To pieces.

On Sunday, we enjoyed a visit with some mighty fine sisters.  It was bittersweet because that lovely one second from the right, Sr. Thomas Aquinas, is heading to a new school next fall in Mill Valley, California.  Now aren't they are a lucky bunch?  STA, we love how you are an amazing example of faith for the kids at school.  You are fun and prayerful and totally hilarious.  And, I hear you play a mean game of soccer.  You will be in our daily prayers.  We consider it a privilege and an honor to call you friend.  Surely we can come up with a reason to bring you back to Texas someday.  May Cali take good care of you.  VERY good or in they're in big trouble.  Sr. Maria Rosario, Sr. Mary Elizabeth and Sr. Elizabeth Ann...we'll see you in the fall!

On Monday, it was all about the home improvement honey-do's and some pool time.  I'll let the pictures speak for themselves.  All in all, a pretty amazing weekend.

QOTW: May 27, 2011

"Are you wearin' wipskip?"
Clare.  If I have not said it enough, I will say it once more.  3yo lingo is awesome.  She was trying to say "lipstick."

The kids were all taking swim lessons at Nitro.  Their classes are divided into two sections, Nitro 1 and 2, and there are 10 stations within each.  The kids get uubercompetive on the "station" thing and last Monday was no exception.

JP:  Will, what station are you?
W:  6
JP:  Oooooooooh, BURNED.  I'm on 7!

"Granny won't be sad this weekend because she'll be at our house.  We have LOTS of people here!"
Anna-Laura, commenting on Granny's stay at our house during the birthday celebration.  Sometimes your kids are the ones teaching you lessons.  ALG had commented earlier in the week how Granny must be sad living alone.  Scott's dad died nearly six years ago and the cat, Muffin, passed away last year.  In her mind, it's impossible to be sad when you're in a houseful of people.  I'd say that was pretty astute of a 6yo to make that connection.  Thank you, sweet girl, for reminding me.

"Mom, I'm writing a journal entry about 'Something Beautiful'...guess who it's about...{big grin} YOU!"
Will.  I'm telling you, that boy is going to tear my heart out when he leaves the nest.  Can he stay innocent a little while longer, Lord?

We have a wonderful 3-day weekend ahead of us.  The kitchen underwent a little makeover and it was great fun.  I got to play contractor for a few days.  Let me tell you, though, that was work!  There will be lots of cooking, a trip to the swimming pool, a high school gradaution party for the world's best babysitter, time with neighbors (I hope!), time with Nana and Papa and a visit with the Sisters.  Is it possible to cram that much joy in three days?  Yes.  Yes, I think it is.  Make it a great weekend!

Hat tip to the many men and women who said goodbye to their families so we could say hello to ours.  God bless the USA.

Happy Birthday #6 and a Fab Art Party!

This one has been in the works for a long time.  Anna-Laura, like all my children, loves art.  It's part of her DNA.  Papa used to paint mighty fine western art and Mom is a graphic designer.  Can I just say planning the party with her was total heaven?

I have always loved home birthday parties.  The kind where the tea is sweet, the screams aplenty and the decorations homemade.  We have certainly gone to places for a few of my kids' parties, but mostly we've kept it close to the casa.  I did the math and this is my 28th kids' party.  That's just crazy talk.

Let's get to it, shall we?

I found a great art collection of PDF printables on Etsy.  It included invitations, thank you's, banners, popcorn boxes, birthday gift list, address labels, food / beverage labels and more.  It's fantastic because you only print what you need - no waste.  Love me some Paper & Cake.  They were also instrumental when we planned John Paul's Cabela's party.  We took a generic place and personalized it for us.  Proof positive that you can make any party your own.  Back to the art.

The party was all about color.  I got the lanterns and the colored buckets 50% off at Hobby Lobby.  Weee.  We will definitely be reusing them for another birthday party next month.

These adorable cake balls were made by a co-worker of my mom's.  They fit perfectly in these paint palettes, another 50% off find at Hobby Lobby.  Instead of slicing cake (we saved that for the family dinner and celebration after the kid party) we served these up to the girls.  Note to self, serve them in bowls in lieu of plates.  They don't roll as much :)  The cake was created by my favorite bakery, Polkadots.  Olga knows how to rock it.

The girls rotated to four different stations.  Face painting was definitely the highlight.  Christine is crazy good and I think the girls' faces show their excitement.

Next station? Tote bag stamping.

Self-portrait collages.

And, you can't call it an art party without a fabulous piece to take home and hang on the wall!

There were lots of smiles, giggles, sweet tea drinking and awesome memories made.  I am grateful for a husband who patiently hung the lanterns, a mother-in-law who willingly folded popcorn boxes and strung banners, a brother who took fantastic photos and a mom and dad who organized the cake balls and finishing touches.  It takes an army to throw a birthday party.  But, I wouldn't have it any other way.  Celebrating such an important milestone is a big deal.  I hope my children always know how much they're loved!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SWEET GIRL!