THE ZOO

Another quick update...

2011-05-08T19:05:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone, quick update: won two BIG cases in the last month with http://www.dafcf.org/! I'm so excited for these families. Can't go into too much detail but one was getting AFLAC to payout on a claim they've been denying since 2009 and another one was against a medical ins. company in Illinois that had been denying infertility benefits (IMPROPERLY too!!) to a family since 2007. I'm so thrilled that we won, and I LOVE the experience that this work is giving me!

I didn't get into the nursing program (any of them) for the fall, and I'm taking this as a sign that I am supposed to take another path. I'm done "fighting" so to speak, and am just going to surrender to what is. I DID get accepted to the Human Services Program at Western Washington University so I will be starting there in the fall and am very excited!

The kids are getting SO smart, I'm teaching them how to count and they are doing so good. we are just working with fingers now, such as "cassie, hold up 1 finger on your RIGHT hand and 3 fingers on your LEFT hand. Now, what is 1 + 3" and then she counts and tells me 4. It's so cute to see the proud looks on their face.

My friend jessica, http://www.raneydayphotography.com/ did some mothers day pictures yesterday of my kiddos and my mom and I. She is an AMAZINGLY talented Photographer, and a WONDERFUL friend! If you are a facebook user, go search Raney day photography and if you "like" the page, you can comment on ALL of her photos. For any of my friends in the WA area, she is AMAZING!!!!! Here are a few pictures:

Everything happens for a reason....

2011-03-12T09:10:00.001-08:00

That's such a hard statement to BELIEVE when you are the one who needs to have faith in it. So for the 2nd quarter in a row, I didn't get into the nursing program. I'm really bummed about it, and I took a few minutes to wallow in my sorrow and feel sorry for myself and now I'm moving on :). I'm still disappointed, I've wanted to be a nurse for a LONG time, but maybe this is all happening for a reson. I did some research over the last few days and discovered that I have enough credits to get my associates degree and then transfer to Western Washington University and do their Human Services program and get my Bachelors in Human services. Then I can do the kind of work that I do with my nonprofit, or continue on in school and pursue a law degree... the possibilities are endless!

It has been a rough year thusfar though, and I'm only 3 months into it... HASCO messing up on my section 8 qualifications and because of THEIR error I can't get on the program (still fighting this one though!), not getting into the nursing program 2 times, loosing daycare assistance, furnace broke, broken seals on 2 windows that need to be replaced, and that's just a few of the issues. But, I figure maybe the first half is going to be tough because the second half will be absolutely wonderful!?!?!? Regardless though, I do have SO much to be thankful for! I've got a roof over my head, food in my house, 3 wonderful children who keep me on my toes (and in shape!!!) and wonderful friends and family!

My friend Jessica of Raney Day Photography, www.raneydayphotography.com did a photoshoot of the kids and she is absolutely amazing. The kiddos loved it and ask me daily when we can do pictures with miss jessica again :) Check out he website, some of the kids photos are featured there.

So the earthquakes, tsunami and now a nuclear explosion really have me praying. Thanking the Lord for all the good things in my life, and praying for those who have lost everything. It's such an unsettling thing. These poor people...

Hope everyone is doing well, and as always, thanks for reading the updates!!!

2010 is nearing the end?!?!?!?!

2010-12-14T13:29:00.001-08:00

I cannot believe yet another year has gone by, this is just crazy! I cannot believe I have 4 year olds, I cannot believe I survived Microbiology (and actually LOVED it!!!!!). So now over my "christmas break" (man do I love being a student sometimes!) I will be filling out Nursing Program applications to EVERY school on this side of the state of WA :). Ought to be a fun few days! I'll be doing that, giving my house a DEEP clean, catching up on client cases for DAFCF (http://www.dafcf.org/) and spending some one on one time with each of the kids by giving them their own special day.

Cassie and Ryland have both had their "special weekend's" with Nana and Grandaddy where they get to go ALL BY THEMSELVES and have to share NOTHING with a sibling :). Tristans is this weekend and he is super excited for it.

They are so thrilled and excited for christmas. Cassie wants a puppy on a leash (she saw it at

walmart... yes, I shop there sometimes :P) and the boys want hot wheels... fun stuff. I'm so proud of cassie-bear, she didn't cry at ALL when we saw santa this year- and she hasn't stopped asking if I'm so proud of her for not crying- silly little lady.

Their daycare had a photo guy come and take candid pictures of all the kids at daycare and their auntie was nice enough to get them for us!!! Those are the pictures that are at the top of this post, I can't believe how fast they are growing!

Hope everyone is doing well and I hope you have an amazing holiday season!!!!

it's been an adventure

2010-10-21T19:39:00.000-07:00

So it's been like 6 months since I've done an update.... I'll try and make it brief :).

The kids are SO big and SO smart. They know their abc's and can count to 20. They all know how to write the first letter of their name, and Tristan is really excelling in writing out all his letters and numbers. He begs me all the time to practice them lol. They are still in Daycare at mark's sister's center, which is a big montessori (sp?) school and it's been great for them as far as education and challenging them mentally. Cassie is a little artist, and she is just the sweetest most loving little girl EVER!! (bias much?) Definately more like her dad than like my fiesty ol self LOL. Those boys are much more like me, but boy do they look like their dad!

Tristan got moved to a Pre K room about 3 months ago because the boys were at eachothers throats, ALL DAY LONG! (now they know how some of my saturday's go LOL). They have really thrived being separated and are doing so well with it. Then about 3 weeks ago they moved Cassie to the other pre K room, so now they are all in their own rooms. Ry was very sad at first and cried the first two days Cassie wasn't with him, but now he's over it and really enjoys his own attention and not having to compete with his siblings.

They are so smart and so funny, and Ryland continues to be the comedian of the group. He had me laughing so hard the other day, here's how the convo went:
RYLAND: "Mommy, why do girls have hyenas?"
ME: "What? Why do girls have what? Hyenas like on Lion King?"
RYLAND: "Noooo mommy, not Lion King. The girls have the hyena's like I have a penis. Why do they have heyenas?"
bahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha, laughing so hard I'm crying, nearly peeing my pants...hyenas. I have the funniest little boy EVER!

As for me...I've finished my first year as a reservist in the US Navy and it's been quite UNeventful :) and I am most grateful for that! I've got one more year and then I'm FREEEEEEE. But all in all, I'm so thankful for the opportunities it has provided me and I still stay in contact with many friends I've made throughout the years.

I'm still in school, working on my last prerequisite to get into the nursing program. I did apply for winter quarter, but it's HIGHLY unlikely I'll be selected because I didn't have this class completed. Plus it is so unbelievable competitive, that even when I do finish this class, it might take a few attempts to get in. That is something I'm NOT looking forward to :(. School is keeping me busy, microbiology is kicking my butt but I am enjoying my labs so much. And public speaking, um, let's just say there is a lot of busy work (unnecessary in my opinion), but such is life.

DAFCF (www.dafcf.org) is doing great, I've got a bunch of clients and still have yet to lose a case (knock on wood!!!) and I enjoy doing it so much. I really wish that I could do it full time, as a job. Over winter break I'm going to take some time into researching grants again and see if I can't find something I missed the last time I looked. I find myself looking forward to tackling the challenge of some of these cases, I even dream about it LOL.

Some of you probably noticed the man in two of the pictures I posted the other day :). That's Phil, we've been dating for about 6 months now and he's an amazing guy. The kids think he's great and he even went to our little mini family reunion in September to Sunriver Oregon. He fit right in and my cousins Ryan and Cory and my uncle David now have a new golfing buddy. The picture with cassie in my arms is at their 4th birthday party (that's right, I said 4th!!!!!) and the one in the dress and tie is at a fundraising auction from last weekend that his company was a part of. It was a fun night, lots of laughter. Plus, what woman doesn't LOVE an excuse to get dressed up!?!?!?!?

Hope everyone is doing well and thanks for checking in!!

For Jennifer :)

2010-10-20T13:43:00.000-07:00

It's been a looooooooooong time since I've updated, tooooo long! Hopefully I'll have some time to post a breif update when I get home tonight after the kiddos get to bed...provided I finish my microbiology and public speaking homework :)

In the meantime, Jennifer, these pictures are especially for you since I know you've been asking me to post them for forever. Sorry :(

LOOOOOOOOOONNNNG time

2009-12-16T23:06:00.000-08:00

Sorry it's been so darn long since I've written. I took the kids out last week to a show in the city where I live. It was some local bands and Blake Lewis from American Idol (I went to Highschool with him, and he's still really good friends with a friend of mine). It was an all ages music and entertainment thingy and the kids had a BLAST!! I got a few brief seconds of video, sorry it so dark though. They did a lot of dancing that night and were asleep in their beds before I even made it downstairs LOL!

They are so smart, it just amazes me how fast they are growing. They are in 3T clothes already, size 8 shoes...almost ready to move to the "big kid's" small shoes. I just can't believe it. They are all potty trained both day and night time. All three of them can count to 15 and say their alphabet. Cassie is drawing smiley faces and trying SOOOO hard to learn how to write her name. Tristan is more and more becoming a mommy's boy, his favorite line lately is, "I love you mommy. I like you mommy. I'm so happy with you mommy". He's such a sweetie! Ry is still our sensitive one who gets his feelings hurt if you loook at him the wrong way. He's the independent one too, likes to go off and do things on his own. And Cassie....we'll shes the boss. The boys pretty much do what she tells them. She's also very very much a girl (totally opposite of me as a kid!) and will cry if she doesn't get to wear a dress and "Pretty shoes". I can't believe they came into our lives over 3 years ago, it just doesn't seem possible.

Here are a few funny things I've written down that the kids have said lately, they keep me laughing and loving live, that's for sure!!!

My Three year olds played the "why" game with me this morning for 15 minutes. I'm more mentally exhausted than after a hard day at school and work. Do you know how much thinking and creativity it takes to provide them with an answer that finally satisifies all their why's?????

Outsmarted by a three year old?!?!?! "Tristan, sit down right now or I'm going to spank your bottom!" "Mommy, you can't, we don't touch other peoples bottoms". Darn kid, got me there...

So when the kids showed up at my mom's door in their costumes she sang "Trick or treat, smell my feet, give me something good to eat" and Ryland promptly walked in the house, walked over to her, got down on his hands and knees and SMELLED HER FEET!!! LOL this kid keeps me laughing!

My brilliant son Ry said to me this morning as I was getting out of the shower: "Oh good girl mama, you wash your bum bum? You wash it so it don't be a stinky bum bum!? Good girl!

Cousin Ricki: "What name do you like to go by, Cassie or Cassandra? Cassie: "I like Cassie Cassandra is my trouble name"

Tristan: "Don't touch Ryland's penis, ok, you don't touch someone else's penis" Ryland: "Yeah, don't touch my penis" Cassie: "ok boys, don't touch the peanuts" LOL out of the mouth of babes

And here are some recent pictures :)

Kitty Kitty

2009-10-16T09:33:00.000-07:00

Last night I had to do something very difficult. You see, Mizykitty hasn't been eating or using the litter box for over a week now. Took her to the vet on Tuesday and her liver function was really high, she was diagnosed with fatty liver disease and the only way to treat it is to get her to start eating again so her body can process all that fat instead of letting it build up in her liver. Vet wanted to keep her for a week and tube feed her, which would be more than I could afford. So she gave me the option of taking her home and force feeding her to see if I could get anywhere with that. Two days later still hadn't gotten her to eat anything, and she just looked miserable, acted miserable and then I got a call from the doctor telling me her liver functions were too high to even consider giving a good prognosis even if I DID get her to start eating again. That her liver was so damaged it's irreparable. So the kids and I said goodbye to her one last time and sent her off to go to heaven.

As we were leaving Tristan said to me, "Your a naughty girl mommy, I don't like you" and I told him it wasn't nice to tell people you don't like them, and asked why I was naughty. He told me, "You are mean to leave mizykitty at the doctor". I asked if he'd like another kitty and he said yes, so off we were to get a new kitty.

We've ended up with 2 of them, brothers. They are cute and sweet as can be, and are SO good with the kids, totally tolerable of the kids picking them up and toting them around the house. Here are some pictures

Did the Puyallup...

2009-10-07T18:20:00.000-07:00

Chelsey and I took the kids to the Puyallup fair a few weekends ago and they had a blast!!! Here are some pictures...

First cleaning at the dentist!!!

2009-09-18T15:44:00.000-07:00

I took the kids today to a pediatric dentist near alderwood mall, what an AMAZING office!!! The kids ALL had a great time, got their teeth cleaned and flossed and a flouride treatment.

I'm so proud of them, here are some pictures to prove it!!

Family pictures

2009-09-10T10:08:00.000-07:00

www.photographicjourneys.net

Click on Proofs

Password is julie

Dirt Bikes and Rally Cars

2009-08-15T22:01:00.000-07:00

This update's for you Tommie!!!!!

Ok, so this weekend has been so much fun and it isn't even over yet!!!

I met up with my friend Jaci today, who I haven't seen since I was 17 when we had a falling out over some money (BTW, NEVER borrow money from friends, or lend it for that matter!!!!). So anyways, I drove up to her place in the Sammamish area to check out their rally this weekend. I took the kids with me, thought they'd enjoy checking everyting out and roaming the property.
I thought it would be a quick "hi" and "bye" and that was it, but the kids wanted to stay so I though I'd give it a shot.

They had a BLAST. Here are just a few of the (too) many pictures that I took

Just put the loves of my life to bed and wanted to share our...

2009-07-23T21:03:00.000-07:00

new word in the house: Hellodoctor- (helicoptor) and those boys LOVE hellodoctors, LOL. They screech, holler, yell and jump up and down uncontrollably when they see or hear one, it's hillarious!

They are talking in full, complete and most importantly UNDERSTANDABLE sentences now. They still mix some words up and don't have everything perfect, but you can get what they are trying to tell you. Even as I sit here and type this I can hear the three of them upstairs having a full blown conversation. I am so lucky to have been given this gift of motherhood, and not just to one little sweetie, but to THREE. I feel so blessed, and so fortunate!

I can't believe the have grown so fast, we are rapidly approaching their 3rd birthday, man how the time fly's!!!

Here are a few pictures from the last few weeks, I know I've been slacking a little...

Busy weekend

2009-07-23T20:40:00.001-07:00

I had a crazy fun and busy weekend last week and am just now getting around to putting up some pictures (sorry)!

Saturday I had a ladies and kids BBQ at my house, and mark had our little ones so I got to spend some good quality time with my friends and their adorable little ones. I got some sunshine, some adult socialization and some relaxation- all very much needed!!!

Saturday night Lauren, Marina and I went out to a bar in Kirkland for some adult time. A few weeks back I was on duty and volunteered to be DD so Marina kindly returned the favor last weekend. I got a full on (and then some!!!!!!) workout dancing out on the floor with those girls. It was so much fun.

Here are some pictures from the BBQ

2 years ago today...

2009-07-10T22:53:00.001-07:00

5 little ducks

2009-07-05T20:12:00.000-07:00

Please forgive the quality, for it was taken from the video camera on my phone. Ryland sang this song to me the whole way home this afternoon, it was too adorable not to catch on tape!!!

Marysville Strawberry Festival

2009-06-21T20:36:00.000-07:00

We spent Saturday afternoon and evening at the Strawberry Festival's parade on State Ave. The kids had a great time, and the boys just couldn't get enough singing and dancing. Cassie spent the evening cuddled in Holly's arms. Here are a few pictures from the evening

First trip to the beach

2009-06-15T20:44:00.000-07:00

Cassie LOVED her first trip to the beach. She was rolling around in the sand and jumping and bouncing like this for over 30 minutes (yes she fell asleep on the way home! LOL). Sunday afternoon I went to the beach with my best friend from junior high, Lauren and her daughter Briana. We met up there with some other friends, Rene, and Gaston and his son Daven. It was an overcast day but still very warm and was actually just perfect because nobody was uncomfortably hot or cold.

Ryland is a brave little one, he waded out up to his waist in the FREEZING water before I went out there to get him, silly guy wanted to go out even further.

Cassie spent most of her time rolling around in the sand and picking flowers for me- she is SUCH a girl! She let her feet touch the water a few times but wasn't really too keen on it.

Tristan did a lot of venturing around and out as far as he could before someone would call him back. He was also very interested in all the driftwood on the shore. He kept finding sticks and bringing them to me- funny little man!

We took a picnic lunch and ate there on the Alki beach. Grass might have been a better selection (there was a huge patch to the left of us), cause I'm sure we all ate our fair share of sand, I KNOW the kids did. Oh well..... So here are some pictures

My Nudist Colony

2009-06-11T20:43:00.000-07:00

Although I can argue I'm not running one, the photos seem to prove otherwise. I cannot seem to keep clothes on these children. The minute we get home everyday their clothes come off and into the backyard they want to go. And I think it all started with the naked potty training, that I will never recommend to another mother for fear of her children becoming naked fans too.

I've tried to cover body parts the best that I can, and hopefully nobody finds them offensive but I can't seem to get pictures of them outside WITH clothes on, so you'll just have to live with these.

HM2 Raysbrook

2009-06-07T21:37:00.000-07:00

That's right, I made 2nd class this time around. Too bad I'll be out before I see that nice E5 paycheck, but I can enjoy the new priviledges that come with being a second!!!

I was on leave two weeks ago during the big official frocking ceremony, as was another one of my shipmates, so he and I got our own little frocking ceremony (special) and....... I got my volunteer service medal that has been in the works since April 2008- you read that right 14 months. Oh well, at least I have it now.

The frocking went well, and I can't thank Heather enough for sewing my 2nd class patches on my unform, or Hillery for the fact that she handed down her 2nd class patch to me...just like they used to do back in the day.

mmmmmmmm french toast

2009-06-04T21:18:00.000-07:00

My cousin Lauren and Auntie Judy came up on Sunday to make us brunch and play with the kids. I must say, I've had a LOT of french toast but I've never tasted anything as good as Lauren's, it was absolutely delicious!!!!

After brunch we played outside for a while. It's been too long since we've seen them, I'm so glad they were able to come! We missed you uncle Roy, hope to see you next time!

Memorial weekend BBQ

2009-05-25T17:06:00.001-07:00

I had a fantastic time with some of my close friends and friends from work yesterday. The BBQ started at 2pm and people trickled in until about 4:30, which is when Ricky (THANK YOU RICKY!!!) took care of all the BBQing. We had chicken, hamburgers, hot dogs and especially for Josh we had STEAK!!!!!!

There were about 15 kids here (no joke) and they all had a blast playing on the swing set, in the bouncy house that Heather and Joe let us borrow (THANKS!!!) and in the two pools that were set up. My white little kids even got a bit of a tan :).

Things settled down about 6 and a handful of people started heading home, espeically those who had to drive home to Issaquah (thanks Lauren!). we sat outside and just talked and watched the remaining few kids who were here, run around and play. Still playing in the pool at 6pm (FREEZING!) It got to where I had to go upstairs and get sweatshirts for everyone, and then around 8 we all ventured inside. I now have a strong desire to put a fire pit in my backyard and have many more BBQ's (you in dad?!?!?)

Ricky and taylor headed over to Ricky's house to get some board games (because mine are lame, seriously lame!)and we ended up playing battle of the sexes. The girls won!!! Steph and the koza's left about 11pm and Rosemarie, Little Armando, Brooke, David, and chelsey stayed until about 1am.

I had a blast and can't wait to do it again, I'm thinking my birthday weekend I'll do another one.....

Augie's 3rd birthday party

2009-05-25T16:53:00.000-07:00

The kids had a blast on Saturday at their friend Augie's 3rd birthday party. They played for hours in the bouncy house and ran around in the yard. I even caught both boys using trikes and PEDDLING on them instead of using their feet along the ground. Barbara, Augies's mom got a FABULOUS cake from Haggens and I almost ate myself sick.

Here are some pictures from the party:

Please pray for my mom

2009-05-23T22:39:00.000-07:00

About a year ago, my mom was diagnosed with sjogrens syndrome, which is a chronic autoimmune disease in which people’s white blood cells attack their moisture-producing glands. Today, as many as four million Americans are living with this disease.

Until recently, the only "complication" my mom had from the sjogrens was constant (and annoying and uncomfortable) dry mouth. And she dealt with it well, as uncomfortable as I imagine one would be with a constantaly dry mouth, she never once complained about it and just walked on.

She went into the doctor about 2 months ago complaining of shortness of breath, and when they took her oxygen levels they were only at 80% (96% or higher is normal) and they immediately put her on oxygen. She was also given a cpap machine at night to help with her breating while sleeping.

Needless to say, her oxygen saturations alarmed the doctors and they started running a lot of test on her, EKG, CT, blood draws and a number of other tests I can't recall right now. She was put on some new medications, on of them being the steroid prednisone. Prednisone use can cause a reduction in immunity, which is what happened with my mom this week.

She was taken by ambulance on Friday morning to the hospital and admitted. She woke up feeling horrible and having a harder than normal time breating and was in so much pain that she was yelling for my dad to call 911. She was diagnosed with pneumonia, quite a bad case of it, and they admitted her for IV antibiotics.

I don't know what's next, I don't really understand what all of this means, but I do know that there is likely a LOT more of this sort of thing to come.

So I would ask for those of you who pray, to please add my mom to your prayer list. Please pray for her comfort, as this disease is attacking many aspects of her body; and continued strength to fight all of this. And also for my dad as he watches my mom suffer through all of this and feels hopeless to help her. Please pray for his strength.

thank you...

My little artists

2009-05-15T20:52:00.000-07:00

I finally fixed my printer/scanner and was able to scan these this afternoon. I wanted to show them off when I brought them home last Friday but no such luck with the scanner on the fritz. This is what they made for me at school for mothers day.

My 3rd mothers day

2009-05-12T21:38:00.000-07:00

The morning started with a trip to IHOP for my mothers day breakfast, courtsey of Mark and the kids. Breakfast was great and the kids enjoyed their usual "mac N cheese" that they always have when we go there (I know, for breakfast?!?!? Yuck!)

Then later tha day, the Koza's, Christine and Zoie Walton, Charles and I decided to go to the zoo for mothers day. We ran into my bestfriend Lauren and her BEAUTIFUL daughter Brianna when we were there, and David met us there to spend the day with us.

I had a great time, the kids were actually a little onry and not on their best behavior, which is a bit unusual because they are usually really good in public, but I can't complain over one day. We ate lunch at the food pavillion (David's treat, Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!!), and got to see a lot of animals. Here are some pictures from the afternoon, it was a wonderful way to spend mothers day surrounded by people I love and care about!

Mom of the Year award

2009-05-10T10:20:00.000-07:00

Check out the video, a friend emailed this to me this morning. Brought a HUGE smile to my face! Thanks Robert!!!!!!!!

http://news.cnnbcvideo.com/?nid=7AEe66neccDWZ8EoO5CfyDEzMjU2Njk3&referred_by=16341456-_xsiGDx&p=moveon

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY to all you amazing and wonderful moms!!

Lauren's 4 more years until 30 party

2009-05-04T21:24:00.000-07:00

I'll start with pictures this time for something different...

I had an amazingly and incredibly fun weekend with my girlfriends! Lauren, my BFF since 7th grade turned 26 and to celebrate we rented a limo and went wine tasting on Saturday afternoon all around Woodinville. I don't like wine, or at least I didn't until I found 3 bottles I liked (and bought) this weekend, two whites and a red to be exact. I don't drink often, so by the time we were done at the first winery I was already buzzed...it was actually quite comical and the other girls said I was very entertaining...whatever that means!?!?!?!

There were 10 of us and would you believe that there was NO drama all day long? 10 women and NO drama, how often does that happen? My other BFF chelsey was there too, and she and I didn't know any of the other girls except for Lauren. Nothing like a little drinking to break the ice though.

We went to about 5 winery's and then headed back to the Kirkland area. We headed up to TGI Fridays because we still had about an hour before our reservation, and we had more drinks (can you believe that?) and some appetizers to pass the time.

Then we headed to the Purple cafe for more wine and a delicious dinner (steak, medium rare!!!) and spent a few hours there. But all of us were itching for some dancing so as soon as the check was split up between all 16 of us (we had more guests join us for dinner who didn't come for the limo ride) we headed off for a night of partying. Have you ever waited for a check to be split 16 different ways? Might as well order another bottle of wine to pass the time, LOL!

Then we went to good old Valhalla's for 80's night and some booty shaking dancing.

Tulip adventure 2009

2009-04-28T22:15:00.001-07:00

I've never been to visit the tulip festival in Washington, can you believe that? So my friend Steve and I went yesterday on a little adventure up north. We had a great time, got to stop for lunch at a small diner and I got to see where he use to live. It was a little bit of a "fly by the seat of your pants" kind of day, which was a lot of fun since I never get to have them anymore, and the company was good!

I wanted to narrow down one picture that was my favorite, and here it is:

It was a great way to start a fun and busy week!

Lets see what this week holds...tomorrow, Lauren, my bestfriend from 7th grade, turns 26 and we are going wine tasting in a limo this Saturday to celebrate. After visiting the winery we are going to have dinner at the Purple Cafe in Kirkland and then off to some dancing at Valhalla's for 80's night (no we don't dress the part, LOL). I can't wait to get all us girls together again, we do so know how to have a good time.

I'm having coffee with Steve on Thursday morning, but I really have an alterior motive and that is to get my hands on the rest of the tulip photos (No folks, I don't have time to right click and save all 100+ of them....) that he took yesterday. The flowers were beautiful, but he's pretty darn good with the camera!

Then Sunday it's off to the Zoo with Katy and the kids, and I imagine Ricky will tag along too :) That ought to be an adventure, a twin and a triplet stroller...oh boy.

Oh, and this weekend will also entail some studying for my test on Monday. As soon as I figure out what the heck I'm doing I'll start studying. Until then, I'll keep calling Katy for help only to have her tell me she doesn't get it either. Maybe tomorrow at work I'll track down Laura and see if she understands it any better. If all else fails Charles has offered to show us "how it's done" and tonight Steve told me he'd help me if he wasn't in the middle of burning dinner. Thankfully mark stopped by for a few minutes and was kind enough to explain it to me in a manner that made sense. Of course though, as soon as he left, I was confused again with nobody to bounce my questions off off....

that being said, i'm off to bed. Goodnight

Kaleb's 3rd birthday

2009-04-22T20:23:00.000-07:00

This video was taken at Kaleb's 3rd birthday party at Jungle Playland in Mount Vernon. This place was amazing and the kids weren't the only ones having fun as you can tell! I ran through quite a few times with the kids and they were having a blast. Thanks Katy and Ricky for inviting us!!!!!!!

2-5 years left....

2009-04-18T07:27:00.000-07:00

Pulmonary Hypertension...why do bad things happen to such good people? My mom has been short of breath for a while now, I posted a little bit about this in an earlier blog. She went to the doctor and they ran all sorts of tests on her. The diagnosis is Pulmonary Hypertension and the outlook/survival doesn't look good at all.

Right now they are trying to determine what has caused this. She did smoke in her younger years, but hasn't been a smoker for almost 20 years now. She had an EKG done on monday and the results of that show an abnormality of the heart, and I remember she was trying to explain it to me but I was so overwhelmed with the news that I don't remember everything.

My mom is so scared and I just want to make this all go away for her. She doesn't deserve this. I'm sad and scared for her, but I know I need to be strong to help all of us get through this. For those who do pray, can you please keep her in your prayers? Thank you,

Kids say the funniest things

2009-04-17T07:40:00.000-07:00

So I was getting the kids into bed the other night and Cassie says to me, "mommy I want to see your boots" and I looked at her rather puzzled because I didn't have boots on, and I know for a fact that this child knows what boots are.

I sat down on the edge of her bed and put my foot on her bed to show her that I didn't have any boots on. However, I did have black socks on and I thought in their bedroom with the lights off, maybe they did look like boots to her.

As I'm lifting my foot up to show her she again tells me, "mommy, I want to see your boots" and then she grabs ahold of my tank top and pulls the front of it down and says, "oh mommy, I see them, theirs your boots" OMG, I fell on the floor laughing, and cassie just had this puzzled look on her face. Gosh I love being a mom, these kids keep me going every day!

First Easter Egg Hunt

2009-04-11T15:14:00.000-07:00

The kids went on their first easter egg hunt today on base. They had a great time, got a few eggs and a goodie bag. Here are some pictures...

Sunshine!!!

2009-04-05T20:21:00.000-07:00

The kids were so happy to go play outside on this beautiful day!

People are SOOOOOOOOOOOO good

2009-04-03T20:42:00.001-07:00

People are SO good and I'm not being sarcastic.

It was a long afternoon after a long week of not getting much sleep. Poor Ryland hasn't been getting much sleep either, his ear infection is keeping him up at night despite the antibiotics. After 4 days of Augmentin and his ear still draining horribly the doctor switched him to Ceftin last night. Rite aid said they'd order it and have it today. I called this afternoon to make sure it was ready and I was told that my insurance wasn't covering the name brand and that I had to get the generic. I explained to them that we had already done the generic twice and Ryland threw it up both times (2 separate ear infections mind you-months apart) so we ended up getting the Name brand because of that. They told me the doctor would have to call the ins. to get it authorized and blah blah blah. I was mad, wondering why nobody had called me to let me know as I could have sorted this all out at work, because I work for the prescribing doctor.

I decided to just pay the $302 and appeal it through Tricare later. My son NEEDED this medication yesterday, so I wasn't about to wait another day or wait through the weekend!

I got there to the drive through only to find out that the order they made yesterday hadn't arrived. WHAT!?!?!?!?!? Then I was ticked for them not calling me to let me know that, or bothering to tell me when I was on the phone with them 30 minutes earlier. Buuuuutttttttt.......really the lack of calling falls on me because I failed to update our phone number from 3 years ago. So at that point I apologized, feeling a little "put in my place" and updated my phone number.

Turns out there was a pharmacy in Stanwood (about 20 min north) that had the Name brand Ceftin and could fill it for me. So off we went on a little drive. I get to the pharmacy and go through the drive through as I've got all 3 kids with me and one who is whining and complaining about his ear hurting (poor kid, he never complains so I know it's bad). Then they tell me that I'm going to need to come in to fill this medication. WHAT?!?!?!?!?!?!? I've got 3 two year olds in the car with me, do you KNOW how hard it is to get them all in and all out of the car, into the store, keeping them "contained" when there is only one of me and then back into the car. It can be a nightmare sometimes, especially with a sicky.

But I needed the meds, so in I went. We were there waiting about 10 minutes and the kids did pretty good because they had a lot of spectators and they were getting a kick out of it. I also got a lot of nice compliments about their behavior, so that made the whole experience better too. The ladies at the pharmacy, actually in the whole store were just fascinated with them.

I got prepared to pay and the pharmacist told me this Rx requires 2 bottles. And I said, "so is it $302 for each bottle, or $302 for the both of them" And he said, "$302???? No, you owe your copay of $3.00". I was much more than plesantly surprised and happily swiped my debit card. I wans't about to ask questions to screw it up, I just know someone must have been loooking out for me!

So two hours after I began the journey to get Ryland's medications, we finally had them. The kids were starting to tell me they were hungry, and I remembered I forgot to pull something out for dinner last night so I decided we'd go to IHOP.

We arrived and the server helped me get the kids all settled (it really is a wonderful IHOP, great servers who really love the kids) and got my order for them in right away. We were "playing" and coloring when a gentleman approached me and apologized for interrupting but wanted to know if they were triplets. I told him yes and he complimented me/them on their fabulous behavior. He also asked me if I was in the Navy or if I was a spouse or something (I was in my Navy PT gear) and I told him I was active duty. He lit up and told me breifly about his son who's also actived duty and living in Ingleside. We chatted for a few minutes and then he went back to sit down.

A few minutes later he got up to leave and waved bye to the kids as he walked by. He thanked me for serving my country and told me the bill was taken care of. I was speechless, but managed to get a thank you out while he was still within earshot. Then the tears came...I can't believe that people are so amazingly and incredibly generous and thoughtful, and I wish I would have said more, so he really KNEW how much I appreciated his generosity. There ARE so many good people in this world, and after a somewhat stressful afternoon of trying to get Ry's medications taken care of, his one gesture made all the difference in the world!

Pay it forward, that I WILL do!

Reunited and it feels so good

2009-04-01T08:02:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago one of my really good girlfriends from JR high was in town from Cali, up here to celebrate her birthday.

Lauren, Chelsey and I already had plans to go out to dinner that night, so we just simply had to ask Allie to come along with us. Allie's sisters Courtney and Erika came to dinner with us too, and we all had a great time.

We were missing one though...Jessie. So we called her at dinner and passed the phone around so everyone could talk to her.

After we had dinner we went out dancing and had a blast! Here are some pictures from the night:

2009-03-31T17:00:00.000-07:00

I was looking at some blogs today and stumpled upon this story by another triplet mom. Nevermind that I was sitting at the front desk at work, but I had tears running down my face as I neared the end of this "story" of hers. I think tonight before I put the kids in bed, I'll let them all sit on mommy's lap and we can read a story together. So precious are the moments I have with them while they are young and still WANT me around...

"I just wanted to share a perspective on the wonderful gift of motherhood.

Back in 1988, the book Love You Forever, by Robert Munsch hit the bestseller list for the first time. That was the year my son was born and the year I bought my copy. Without exaggerating, I believe I must have read that book a thousand times since then. Already having had one child, I was beginning to see how quickly kids grow. That book holds a very special place in my heart.

When I first read that to my older kids, it seemed a little creepy to me that the mom would drive across town and crawl into her grown son’s room so she could rock him while he slept. Now, it seems I’ve become that creepy mom. No, I won’t really stalk my adult-children, but I can fully relate to sentiment. If I could, and I thought I could get away with it, I’d get in my car and go rock each one of my children to sleep. Tonight, even.

Time passes. We blink and our children are celebrating yet another birthday. Sometimes the most precious moments we get to experience as moms get shuffled in with the day-to-day obligations and are forgotten.

I wrote this for my older children, who turned from babies into adults when I wasn’t looking:

I remember the first time I cradled you in my arms, but I can’t remember the last. Guess I always figured there’d be a next. If I had known it would be the last time, I’d have taken time to breathe in the sweet smell of your skin and hair, feel the heavenly warm weight of your little body in my arms. I’d have tried to burn that feeling – that image – into my brain, my heart, my soul.

When was the very last time I carried you to bed, tucked you in and kissed you goodnight? I wish I could remember. If only I could have known it would be the very last time, I’d have curled up next to you to on your bed, watched the rhythmic rise and fall of your chest, and let myself be lulled to sleep by the sweet sounds of your gentle slumber.

I can never forget the very first time I rocked you in my arms and sang to you – Hush Little Baby. It was as though no song before had ever had meaning. I can’t remember the last song I sang to you. I guess I figured there’d always be one more song to share – one more time that your little smiling eyes would tell me that your mommy had the sweetest voice in all the world. If I had known it would be the very last time, I’d have squeezed you just a little tighter, rocked you just a little longer, and sang another song and another and another…

When, my sweet child, was the very last time I swooped you up off of the floor to the heavenly sound of your squeals of delight and twirled you and dipped you and danced with you until I was out of breath but you were pleading, “Please, Mommy. One more time.” Always to some silly tune. I wish I would have known it would be the last. If only I had known…I’d have picked an endless song and we’d be dancing, still.

Things you’ll miss (among the many), believe it or not:

Trimming fingernails and toenails – those tiny little girl and boy hands – perfect little hands.

Gently putting a Band-Aid on a boo-boo – even if the boo-boo is only in their head.

Your little ones’ fuzzy little legs. I love fuzzy little legs. When my kids sit on my lap, I am tickled to see the golden peach fuzz on their legs. I don’t know exactly what it is, but it screams innocence.

And toys. You’ll miss toys – even when they’re scattered all over the floor. Because when the toys go away, so does a lot of the magic of childhood.

You'll also miss pushing your kids on a swing: The day Angus learned to swing by himself was one of the sweetest, saddest days of my life. I can’t believe the way my emotions tugged at me in two totally different directions at the same time. I was thrilled that my boy had mastered one of the greatest joys in childhood. My little boy had grown wings. I still remember that feeling from my own childhood when I thought that I could touch the clouds with my feet if I only could only swing high enough. But even as I was thrilled for Angus, an equal part of me was sad. I knew it was the end of “Push me, Mommy.”

To be completely honest, the end of the “push me, Mommy” stage for my triplets held a different meaning. I’m sure I was quite a sight on the public playgrounds, running the gauntlet between three different swings – each swing with the potential to send me flying into a face-full of rubber mulch. I was a bit more relieved when they learned to swing on their own. But there is still a twinge of sadness there, too. Sadness because my babies don’t need me for that anymore.

You’ll also miss hearing “Mommy, look at me!” and “Mommy, do you know what?” and “Mommy, I want that!” Basically just the constant chitter-chatter of your little ones. This one’s a biggy for me. My kids are huge talkers. When my older kids were younger, I used to kid with them that God gave them each a certain amount of words and if they used them up, they’d never be able to speak again. But, even the sweetest, chattiest child turns into a teenager who will seem to have lost all ability to communicate, resorting to one-word sentences, body language, grunts and clicks. Trust me when I say, you’ll miss your chatter-box.

I guess what I’m getting at is that it all goes by so quickly. Don’t forget what a gift motherhood really is. The real gift of motherhood is in the tiny things – in the actual mothering.

So, when your little one begs, “Pick me up, Mommy,” pick her up and whisper in her ear that she is the most precious little girl in the whole world. Make it your little secret. A confidence. Someday, when she’s grown, she’ll give you a call when she’s down and say, “Pick me up, Mom” and you’ll share a funny story to make her smile, and you’ll tell her that she is the most precious girl in the whole world.

When she says, “Watch me, Mommy,” watch her. Someday, she’ll march down the aisle in her cap and gown and her eyes will search the crowd to find you. And when your baby’s eyes meet yours and she smiles, you’ll hear her heart say, “Watch me, Mommy.” And you’ll watch. And you’ll cry tears of joy for what she’s become and tears of sadness because your baby is not your baby anymore.

So when you have those stressed-out days when you want to hang up your mommy-apron for the day, don't lose sight of how fleeting childhood is. It will help you remember what a wonderful gift motherhood really is."

"As long as I'm living, my baby you'll be." - Robert Munsch

Lesa Rhoton
http://www.angusandthetriplets.com/
2009

A little guessing game...

2009-03-25T19:41:00.000-07:00

Can you tell which boy is which? Daddy and I couldn't right away, we had to use some elimination factors to figure it out!

Three Years ago yesterday...

2009-03-24T21:15:00.001-07:00

Here's an excerpt from my journal that I kept 3 years ago, I was reminiscing tonight and started going through some old pictures and stuff I kept about the pregnancy. I can't believe it's already been 3 years!!!!!!!

March 23 2006- We went to the OB for our first appointment today. I told her about the bleeding on Monday night and the trip to the ER. I also told her I had a small amount of spotting again last night. She wanted us to have an ultrasound so we went and ran some errands and came back for our ultrasound.

The tech was very nice, asking how we became pregnant with twins, "was it naturally? Oh, you have Cystic fibrosis, I've heard of that but not too much, why the IVF?" Very inquisitive (in a good way) and very friendly.

So she starts the scan and immediately sees baby A and the heartbeat. She points it out to us on a screen that is set up so Mark and I can see it. Then she sees Baby B and points out that heartbeat. She goes back up to baby A and A is dancing around bouncing off the "walls" (it was so adorable). Mark and I were oohing and ahhhing and talking and laughing and, "oh, they are so cute...."
All through this she's been asking us a lot of questions about the spotting, IVF dates and such, so when she asks "how many ultrasounds did you say you've had?", we didn't think much of the question.

I told her what I had previously said, one in the IVF clinic at about 6 weeks and one this past monday in the ER. She said, "oh, because this is very uncommon but they missed your THIRD baby both times". Mark and I said "WHAT!!!!!!!!!!, You are kidding right????" She was dead freaking serious. She went back up to baby A, then down to baby B and then further down to Baby C, who is an identical to baby B but they DO NOT share the same sacs so there is less risk for complications to the babies. Since we only had 2 eggs transferred, the only logical conclusion is that one of the eggs split-which is exactly what happened.

I just started laughing, like the kind of laughing that they should put me in a padded room for. Mark just kept stepping closer to the monitor saying, "are you kidding me, seriously, oh my gosh" over and over again. I told her, "I'm sorry, I don't know whether to laugh, cry or scream so I'll just stick with laughing hysterically". She totally understood.

I'll spare you all the details of the phone conversations to our family this evening, but it took both my husband and myself and about 15 minutes to make my
mom believe us that we were serious and not kidding (Mark jokes around with my mom all the time so it's understandable for her to think it was a "haha, got
ya").

So, we are now going to be parents of triplets. HOLY COW!!!! And to think, in the waiting room before the ultrasound Mark just blurted out, "it's 3 babies
honey". (He still claims he has no idea WHY he said it, it just flew out of his mouth). I said, "Haha, very funny. I think I'll just stick with our twins". He couldn't have been more accurate.

We are thinking the identical babies are girls and the singleton is a boy, but who knows. We haven't decided if we are going to find out yet. I really want to
know but Mark is pretty sure he doesn't want to know. We'll have to resolve this pretty quickly!!!!

I wonder what the next 3 years will hold in store for us!?!?!?!?

Such a smart little princess

2009-03-22T21:55:00.000-07:00

I just had to whip out the video camera when Cassie started doing this. I can't believe she is actually counting objects. She, and the boys, have been couting to 10 for months now, but they haven't really associated it with anything (objects) until now. She's such a little smartie pants!

Nana's Last days

2009-03-18T21:26:00.000-07:00

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

It's been over a decade since my entire family was gathered together in one place. I really think we should do it more often, although hopefully under different circumstances!

On Saturday morning at about 3 am my mom got a call from her sister that they were transfering my Nana from a hospital in Moses Lake, WA to Wenatchee, WA and that it was serious. By the time my mom got there my nana was doing quite well and almost her "normal" self again, minus the oxygen and medications and such. My mom called me to let me know what was going on, her first call being that Nana wasn't doing well and we might need a family gathering this weekend. Her next phone call had much better news with "nana on the mend" and that all was looking well.

On Sunday I got another phone call from her, they had done an echocardiogram on Nana and only about 30% of her heart was functioning, the other 70% was severely damaged. She was also on an oxygen machine that was blowing oxygen into her nose because her oxygen saturations were in the 40% range when she was taken into the ER. When nana was given the news about her echocardiogram, she pretty much told my mom and aunt that she was done and was ready to die. My mom called me immediately and Mark helped me pack up the kids (and make some snacks!!!!) and we were out the door in about an hour.

I picked up my dad and we drove over Stevens Pass. We got stuck on the pass for about 1.5 hours during avalanche control, and Mark's cooking came in handy for the kids, it was a lifesaver! We arrived in Wenatchee around 9pm and I really wanted to go see nana. Almost immediately after I walked in the door she said to me, "Hi sweetie, I'm dying". Leave it to that woman to be brutally honest!

We spent some time with her and then went and got dinner (yes, dinner at 10pm-ish). Monday morning she looked well and was talking and doing nana's version of cracking jokes. She was talking to the kids and talking with everyone in the room. She told my mom and aunt several times that she was "ready to die" and that she wanted to "do it right now, take the oxygen off". My mom and aunt had to remind her that there were other grandchildren and family members on their way in to see her. She decided she ought to wait for them. She did however switch from the pressurized oxygen machine to a regular nasal cannula for her oxygen. You could tell the difference within an hour, her fingertips and lips turned a slight blue tinge. As the day wore on she slept more often, but she'd be awake for about 30 minutes and then sleep for 30 minutes, repeating this all afternoon.

On Tuesday morning most of the family had arrived and by about 10am everyone was in the room to see her. She had really changed since Monday. We could no longer keep her awake for more than about 30-60 seconds at a time, and she would sleep for 30-40 minutes in between waking up. He color had changed also, she was almost an ash color and her lips and fingers were actually blue now, not just a blue tinge. Sometime around noon she started yelling out that she wasn't ready, saying "please God, please God, I'm not ready, I'm not ready, I'm not ready". My mom and aunt and uncle were asking her what she needed to be ready, was there anything they could do for her? However, she wasn't responsive to their questions. She settled down for about 10-15 minutes and then started yelling the same thing again, over and over again. The doctor came in to see her and recommended some Atavan (anti-anxiety), to which the family agreed with. Nana also started saying she was having some pain, so they upped her morphine. We also called in a preist (upon her earlier request), to come read her last rites. Suprisingly she was aware of his presence and acknowledged him being there and seemed to understand what he was doing. That was around 1pm.

That was the last time I remember hearing her talk or say anything, and the last time I remember her waking up. There were a couple episodes where she didn't breathe for a good minute or so, we all fell silent and stared at her until she started breating again. It became clear to us that the end was drawing near.

JR, Uncle Lon and Aunt Sue (her grandson, son and daughter-in-law) hadn't made it yet. JR's plane got delayed, he was suppose to arrive Tuesday morning, but didn't make it in until about 4:20. They were then going to drive over Stevens Pass to come see Nana. Unfortunately they didn't make it. No sooner had JR's plane landed (this information we all discovered later), than Nana passed away in the presence of her family at 4:30 on March 17, 2009- St Patricks Day nontheless.

Something strange did happen though, I'm not sure what to call it, or if there even really IS some sort of connection, but I'll share anyways. About a minute before we all noticed that Nana had stopped breating (and my mom couldn't find a radial pulse or hear a heartbeat with the stethescope), my kids all started crying. And this wasn't a wimpery cry, they all started having a "freak out" kind of cry. I was trying to comfort all of them and my mom asked me if I needed help. She came over and grabbed Cassie, while I was on my knees hugging the boys and asking them what was wrong. At one point I looked up at her and said, "what the hell is going on?" and she shook her head to indicate she didn't know. This screaming and crying went on for about 60 seconds and then just as suddenly as it started, it stopped. Just then we all noticed that Nana wasn't breathing, and called in the nurse who confirmed that she was gone. I'm not sure if the kids could "feel" something or what, but it's just to strange not to mention.

It was a bittersweet moment for me, to hear Nana express that she was ready to be done, that her earthly body was giving out on her and that she didn't want to fight it anymore, gave me a lot of peace that we were doing the right thing by letting her go. This was what she wanted. However, it's never an easy thing to say goodbye to someone you love, and it is ever more difficult (in my opinion) to actually be present when they pass. I'm sad, but I'm happy for her, knowing she's in a better place with my grandma Ann, my greatnanny and my papa!

Skinny Cow Skinny cow

2009-03-12T19:40:00.000-07:00

First off, if you have never had a skinny cow before I highly recommend you run
to the grocery store or Costco and buy yourself a box, they are incredibly delicious!!!

Nana was watching the kiddos last night while I was at my math class getting ready for next week's final. I don't know what posessed her to go to the freezer in the garage, but she did, and she found my secret stash of skinny cow's. She cut it up and gave it to the kids for dessert.

As soon as they were done with dinner tonight they started asking us for a skinny cow. I can't believe they remembered what it was called, they are so darn smart, and they keep us laughing all day long!

The Raysbrook dance off

2009-03-11T21:09:00.000-07:00

They just kept going and going and going and going.....

He's out

2009-03-10T09:06:00.000-07:00

Mark got discharged last night about 7pm (a little unusual, I know) and the doctor arranged for him to do home IV therapy for the next two weeks. Who knew that home infusion centers delivered boxes of medications and supplies at 10pm?????? Well, they do, which is pretty cool.

I forced him to take the day off today, and his mom is over at his place taking care of him and doing some house work.

I hope these meds continue to work for him and that he gets better soon. He really can't wait to get back into the guy, but he has to wait until he's done with the meds and they take his PICC out.

Thanks for all the prayers and well wishes!!!!!

He's still in lockup.....

2009-03-07T20:29:00.000-08:00

We went to visit Mark today, he's still in the hospital and the doctor told him this morning to expect at LEAST another 2 days. I can tell he's bored out of his mind, and his internet won't work, I think I'll take him my computer tomorrow and trade with him.

So the updates are that he is still on oxygen at 2.5L, and he is on IV Tobramyacin, IV Cipro and on an insulin drip because his blood sugars are out of control. When they tested him this morning when we were there it was over 400 (it should be under 100), so they upped his insulin drip. He's also on IV prednisone, which has a lot to do with his elevated blood sugars, but he needs to be on it so they just have to keep upping his insulin.

They are also waiting for his culture to come back with any growth. His last culture 2 weeks ago showed what he normally cultures, which is Staph Aureaus and Pseudomonas, but of course they want to make sure he hasn't cultured anything new.

We're going to go visit him again tomorrow morning (and take him some flank steak!!), and I'll post updates if there are any when the kids take their nap.

The kids are hanging in there, but I KNOW they know that something is out of wack. They are very clingy and there is a lot of crying and whining going on the last 24 hours or so :(. They were VERY happy to see daddy today, and we stayed for about 2 hours, which was really great for all of us! I got to see Gram B and grandpa too, and the kids were thrilled to see them, it was absolutely adorable!

Mark's back in the hospital

2009-03-05T20:23:00.000-08:00

Mark got a direct admit today from his CF doctor to Providence Hospital in Everett (the Colby campus). He wasn't feeling well again, his heart rate was really high, and he was short of breath, coughing a lot again and just feeling horribly run down. I feel really bad for him, although he IS at a much better hospital and his private pulmonologist (not from the UW CF clinic) is managing him.

Please keep him and the kiddos in your thoughts and prayers. The kids haven't seen him for two days and they are missing him (asking for/about him constantaly) and they were acting out tonight which isn't normal for them. So I think they are feeling this too.

Thanks

smashey smashey

2009-03-02T20:17:00.000-08:00

Poor Ryland has had a bit of a rough day. After class tonight I went over to Mark's to pick up the kids, and arrived to a house full of naked children. It's their new favorite thing, naked all the time all day long!!! So Mark tells me Ry was reading a book and he smashed it closed, right on his little penis. And then he freaked because he smashed it (and I imagine it hurt) so then he squeezed his legs together in shock and squished it even more (poor little guy). He's had a rough and tumble few days.

Last week he fell off a toy outside at daycare and cut open is bottom lip and sliced his upper lip. Luckly no teeth were damaged, and he just has a bruised lip to show for it now. Poor guy...rough week!

He's home!!!!!!!!

2009-02-21T21:08:00.000-08:00

Thank you everyone for the prayers and well wishes. Mark got discharged today, and the kids and I went over to his house to play for a while. He got exhausted pretty quickly so he took a nap and the kids and I finished our errands.

It was tentatively planned that he would be staying here tonight, but I've been sick for about 2 weeks, got better for about 24 hours and now I'm back to having a runny nose, cough and sore throat. And the kids have colds and Tristan has the ear infection. Since they upped his predinsone doseage (prednisone lowers the immune system) he basically needs to stay away from anyone who is sick, and should probably wear a mask in public (good luck with that one!!!!!), So, he had to go home, we don't want to chance him getting sick again. I'm sad because I wanted to cook him some dinner and give him a heat pack for his arms (very sore after the IV's).

Thank you again for all the support and prayers, we really have amazing friends and family!!!!!!

Another night in the hospital

2009-02-20T20:22:00.000-08:00

Mark is spending his 4th night in the hospital tonight, I miss watching him run around and play with the kids, and I miss him helping me with my math homework and I miss cooking dinner with him and I just miss him period. I hope he gets to come "home" very soon!

I am frustrated with the hospital though, something "happened" (won't indicate if they lost it or something with the test went wrong) to his sputum culture from Wednesday and then had to get him to give another sample today. It's at least 72 hours for a preliminary result, and they are talking about not letting him come home until they know what he is culturing. So that's a minimum of 3 more days. He has lost SOOOOOOOOOO much weight while in the hospital. I asked him if he wanted me to go ask the nurses to get him double portions, but he said he didn't want to be a bother. I can't wait to get him home and fatten him up.

Plus the poor guy is bored out of his mind, he has an teeny little TV and that is is. Plus it's like 95 degrees in his room (so bad the windows are all steamy) and nobody has changed his sheets since they moved him from the ICU on wednesday- no joke. So please continue to keep him in your prayers and for those of you who have his #, feel free to give him a call, he would LOVE to chat. And if you don't have it and would like it, please email me at jraysbrook@shoreline.edu

Apparently this week CAN get more difficult

2009-02-12T20:00:00.002-08:00

I went to pick the kiddos up from daycare today and Tristan ran over to me and started bawling- totally uncharacteristic of him. Ms. Michelle told me he had been "a sad boy all day, cried about everything all day long". I thought maybe he was feeling the stress of what is going on with Mark.

He cried and SCREAMED the entire car ride from daycare to the hospital where we were going to visit Mark. I got the kids upstairs into Mark's room and Tristan was still crying (a painful crying, not whiney), and then I noticed he was pulling on both of his ears. Ding ding....ear infection.

So downstairs we went to the ER. Have you ever tried to keep track of 3 toddlers in an ER, two who are feeling fine and one who won't stop crying because he's in so much pain????? It's not an easy task to accomplish, trying to get him registered to be seen, insurance and all that other crap, all while watching the other 2 trying to keep them under control and comfort the sick one. I broke a sweat long before we ever got called back to get vitals.

I must say that once we got back, we were in an out in 10 minutes- if even that much. I was very impressed, we didn't even wait 2 minutes before the doctor came in, got a prescription for ammoxicillin and then off to tackle the pharmacy. I'll spare you that story because it's just as long and poor Tristan cried the entire time. I felt SOOOOO bad for him.

But I'm really ticked at daycare, really ticked. It's a good thing I have tonight to think it over and calm down before I talked to them about it tomorrow.
What the heck is wrong with them? They call me when cassie scrapes her knee and needs some ice, or when Ry falls down and gets a minor bruise, but when Tristan, who is generally a jolly fellow, is crying ALL DAY LONG nobody thinks to maybe call mom and have her come check it out?!?!?!?!?!?!??? I'm really really ticked they made him suffer all day long and didn't think to call me at all. Ok, I'm done with my vent, thanks for listening if you've made it this far.

Mark's been admitted

2009-02-12T20:00:00.001-08:00

Mark went into the ER last night because he felt like he had a fever and couldn't catch his breath. He had a fever of 103 and they said that his lungs were awful sounding. They did Arterial blood gases on him and they were 58, so up to the ICU he went.

I didn't get that information until early this evening. I suppose it's a good thing because I would have been much more worried... I only got to see him for about 30 minutes tonight because I had to get home to relieve my mom from watching the kids for me (Thank you mom, you're the best!!!).

He has been compliant with his meds and treatments, he's been on oral antibiotics for past month, just trying to clear this up, but it's evident they weren't enough. His pulmonologist says they were just keeping his infection at bay.

They've got him on vanco. and 2 other antibiotics (can't remember, Impermium or something and one other). He's really ansy and of course doesn't want to be there. He's bored out of his mind and its an older hospital in Arlington, WA (not the UW for you washingtonians) so there is no internet, the TV's are tiny... I wish I could have stayed longer tonight to keep him company.

And for those who have inquired, we are not officially divorced yet. neither of us seem able to sign on the dotted lines, even though the paperwork has been filed and we've had ample opportunity to pick a court date- we have yet to do so.

I'm still very much in love with him, and he assures me he is with me. We are not living together, but are at eachother's houses daily to spend time with the kids. We eat dinner together as a family Sunday nights, and do activities with the kids on the weekend. I guess I'm just rambling now, but neither of us really know "where" we are at with all of this right now. I guess we could use prayers on this too.

Thanks for tuning in :)

Fun in February

2009-02-12T20:00:00.000-08:00

2 years ago today

2009-02-11T21:16:00.001-08:00

I was looking through some old pictures today and came across some that I took exactly 2 years ago. I can't believe how big my babies are now and how little they use to be.

Tristan sleeping in his crib

Ryland sleeping in the family cradle, passed down through the generations

Cassiebear in the playpen, shortly before we inherited the 3rd crib from my mom (Thanks mom!)

Sticky, messy little Tristan monster

Ry bug, covered in apricots

And the cassiebear, she's even got it in her hair!

I remember this day too, they were COVERED in sticky babyfood and Mark and I had to wipe them down BEFORE the bath, it was hillarious!

Playing outside

2009-02-09T21:40:00.001-08:00

It was a nice weekend for some outdoor play, so we all got bundled up and went outside. Here are a few pictures:

Some fun at daddy's new place

2009-02-03T22:00:00.001-08:00

Taking a nap in Daddy's bed at Daddy's new house

Isn't she just adorable?!?!?!

Ryland with his new buzz cut and Tristan face down laughing at him

My adorable little Tristan Monster

Cassie in her Pretty dress, she is SOOOOOOOO into dresses!

A poem I found today, really puts my weekend into perspective

2009-02-02T21:28:00.000-08:00

There are women that become mothers without effort, without thought, without patience or loss, and though they are good mothers and love their children - I know that I will be better.

I will be better not because of genetics or money, or that I have read more books, but because I have struggled and toiled for this child, I have longed and waited, I have cried and prayed, I have endured and planned over and over again.

Like most things in life, the people who truly have appreciation are those who have struggled to obtain their dreams, I will notice everything about my child, I will take time to watch my child sleep, explore and discover, I will marvel at this miracle every day for the rest of my life.

I will be happy when I wake in the middle of the night to the sound of my child, knowing I can comfort, hold and feed them, and that I am not waiting to take another temperature, pop another pill, take another shot or cry tears of a broken dream, My dream will be crying for me.

I count myself lucky in this sense, that God has given me this insight, this special vision with which I will look upon my child, that my friends will not see.

Whether I parent a child I actually give birth to or a child that God leads to me, I will not be careless with my love.

I will be a better mother for all that I have endured, I am a better wife, a better aunt, a better daughter, neighbor, friend and sister because I have known pain.

I know disillusionment and I have been betrayed by my own body, I have been tried by fire and hell many never face, yet given time, I stood tall. I have prevailed, I have succeeded, I have won.

So now, when others hurt around me, I do not run from their pain in order to save myself discomfort, I see it, mourn it and join them in theirs. I listen. And even though I cannot make it better, I can make it less lonely, I have learned the immense power of another hand holding tight to mine, or other eyes that moisten as they learn to accept the harsh truth, and when life is beyond hard, I have learned a compassion that only comes from walking in those shoes.

I have learned to appreciate life.

Yes, I will be a wonderful mother.

Brianna's first birthday

2009-01-19T20:09:00.000-08:00

On Sunday we got together with some old friends from JR High to celebrate Brianna's FIRST birthday, she is the daughter of my best friend Lauren. I can't believe a year has already passed since Brianna's birth, time sure does fly.

The kids and I had a great time and it's always good to see old friends! Here are some pictures.

Aaaaaaahhhhhhh good times, stuffin the face with cake :)

About the naked potty training....

2009-01-11T20:59:00.001-08:00

If I had to do it over again, I would NOT do the naked portion of the potty training. Why you ask????????????
Because now the minute we walk in the door, I can't get my kids to KEEP THEIR CLOTHES ON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It wasn't really an issue until I had company last night, and oh yes, as you can imagine, nakedness was everywhere with me running right behind them trying to put their clothes back on. Luckly it was my family, and they thought it was quite comical. But I swear to you I can't keep clothes on these kids anymore, they are ALL about the nakedness.

See for yourself, at least Cassie was lady enough to cover up a bit (she was playing ballerina)

Another potty training day

2009-01-01T20:04:00.000-08:00

Today was day 4, I've decided Tristan just isn't ready yet and there's no sense in pushing it so I'll put him back in a diaper tomorrow.

Ryland and Casie are doing great. Ry had one accident today, he was VERY busy playing, and he was very upset about it, so he realizes what is going on. But other than that he used the potty. And Cassie is, well, Cassie- she's so darn smart.

So I've decided that stay at home parents are amazing and I will bow and kiss their feet for what they do. I could NEVER do it. I've been home since last Friday, the 26th, with the kids and I'm about to go bonkers. I suppose it doesn't help that they R E F U S E to nap at home, so at the end of the day they are exhausted and I'm loosing my patience.
But my lord, I've never looked forward to going back to work, until this week. I love my kids, don't get me wrong. But when you stay home with them there are no "smoke" breaks or lunch breaks or any type of breaks. And conversing all day with toddlers, well.... it's not exactly an intellectual conversation.

Here are some pictures from this last week at home with the kiddos- they are from my cell phone so sorry for the quality

Day 3 of potty training

2008-12-31T19:39:00.001-08:00

Cassie and Ry are doing SOOOOO well with the potty training. No accidents from either of them today and cassie pooped again. She was so proud of herself, it was hillarious. She kept saying, "Cassie go poopoo, Yeahh good girl" "Cassie go poopoo, Yeahh good girl".

Tristan...I think the little man might not be quite ready. He held out all morning and loaded up his diaper at nap time. Then from about 2-5 he had 3 accidents and was pretty much refusing to go anywhere near the potty. So if he is still that way tomorrow I might just put him back in a diaper. I don't want him to be scared or feel intimidated or anything like that. The potty needs to be his friend.

Potty training boot camp day 2

2008-12-30T19:32:00.001-08:00

I can't believe how well Cassie and Ryland are doing. Tristan seemed to have a bad day all around today (poor guy), everything made him grumpy or cry. He did pee once today, and he did it standing up. But he pretty much refused to sit on the potty the entire day...oh, and he pooped in the playroom. But he was kind enough to tell me about it "Ohhh no mommy". We only had 2 accidents today, compared to 5 yesterday. I am shocked at how well they are doing.

All three of them did great yesterday, day 1 of Potty boot camp. Ryland went pee about 10 times, and pooped once. Cassie went pee about 30 times and also pooped once. Tristan went pee 5 times. I was really surprised that they pooped because they had never done that before.

So here is how I'm doing the potty training, I gathered this all from a lot of info/recommendations from other moms before I made my "game plan".

I set the timer for 15 minutes and increase it by 5 minute intervals every day. Once the timer goes off, all the kids have to go sit on the potty. If they go, great and they get an M&M for a reward. If not, I praise them for trying.

The kids are not wearing any diapers or underwear for the first 3 days. On the 4th day we will try underwear and see how they do. This lack of diaper/pull up/underwear allows them to sit down whenver they need to and quickly go. This is important as they are still learning to listen to their body, and accidents cause them to get very upset.

I am thinking about going out with them on Friday. I will use pull ups just to be safe, but I want to see how they do going out and if they tell me they need to go potty or if they just pee in the pull up.

On another note, I'm really bummed that I can't get my christmas video loaded. I've always been able to load my video camera videos into windows movie maker, but for some reason it won't let me now. I have some older video (like from the kids 1st birthday) that was taken on the video camera, and I can still load that into movie maker, but I can't load any recent stuff. I'm really bummmed. So I edited it in Panasonic Image mixer, which is the software that came with the video camera, and it let me edit the movie, but every time I try to load it onto blogger, youtube or onetruemedia I get an error message. i'm sad, it was a cute video of christmas. And I didn't take any pictures because Mark forgot the camera at his house, so I'm really bummed.

Struggling today

2008-12-19T14:43:00.001-08:00

It's one of those days where I'm questioning a lot of things that have taken place lately.

Mark came to see the kids yesterday after work. After our little snow storm (which is a big deal for this area!!!), I decided not to travel into work WITH the kids because I couldn't get out of the driveway, and I wasn't going to push it because I just didn't feel safe. Mark drove from work up to my house later that afternoon, barely making it up the hill and getting stuck a few times in the neighborhood. After some struggling to park the car, he decided to just leave it where it "landed".

He played with the kids and helped me put them to bed, and then we made dinner and decided to watch a movie, The Dark Knight. I offered to let him stay the night considerting the weather and that temperatures were down to about 14 degrees last night.
And as we were watching the movie and I was laying on the floor by the fire, and Mark was right behind me on the couch, I was thinking a lot about how we had EVERYTHING and now it's all gone. I was laying there thinking that this IS how my nights should be. Putting my kids to bed with their father, cooking dinner with my husband, relaxinging and winding down watching a movie with someone I love. Not what I've been doing for the past 6-7 months which is putting the kids to bed by myself, cooking myself dinner, watching TV by myself and going to bed alone.

And for the first time since this all started about 8 months ago, I'm second guessing my decisions. Is it really worth splitting up our family? I know he wasn't perfect, but neither was I. Is this fair to our children? Shouldn't they be able to have both parents in a family who live together and love eachother? Lord knows I still love him

So what do I do? Am I doing the right thing?

The Kids FIRST Snow!!!!!!!

2008-12-15T21:15:00.000-08:00

They learned a new word this weekend and had a lot of fun playing outside in the snow.

When we came downstairs on Sunday morning, they weren't the least bit interested in eating breakfast (which is usually what they are begging me for). They just stood by the window and talked to or about the snow. As soon as breakfast was over we got all bundled up (a 40 minute process with 3 toddlers, LOL) and went outside.

The kids had a BLAST and I had so much fun watching them. Here are a few pictures, and the girls next door were out so they had "big kids" to play with, which they loved even more.

Santa pictures

2008-12-14T18:26:00.000-08:00

We took the kiddos to the mall today to get santa pictures. The kids did really good while we waited in line for about 45 minutes. The boys were REALLY excited to see santa, until it was their time to go and see him. Cassie was a little put off about the idea from the get go. Poor santa, it took all his strenght to hold cassie in his arms. He told me, "she sure is a live one" to which I just started laughing for I know all to well...

So, here is the picture. I would have loved another try, because I think Cassie looks... well, not like Cassie. But santa had all he could handle!!!

And wouldn't you know, as soon as we were done paying for and collecting our pictures, Ryland took off running back towards santa and almost into someone elses picture. Silly guy...

2008-12-11T19:31:00.000-08:00

My office had a Kids Christmas Party today and each child got a present from Santa. The boys had a blast, they were all about santa, Cassie however....that child clung to me like nothing I've ever experienced before. If she could have crawled inside my skin, she probably would have.

Here is a video, and some pictures:

Out of the mouth of babes....

2008-12-10T20:30:00.001-08:00

Have you ever tried to teach your child to say PLUM, as in the fruit, or the color? Or in our case, the little plastic play fruit to go with their new kitchen? Regardless of what kind of plum we are talking about, I just thought I would share that it's quite hillarious, and Mark and I were nearly rolling on the floor this afternoon as we were trying to get Cassie to say PLUM.

It went something like this:
Mom: Cassie, say plum
Cassie: cum
Mom: Plum, it's pppppllum pppplum
Cassie: cum, cum cum cumcum
Mom: hysterically laughing, can't speak, can't breathe
Mark: Cassie, it's PPPlum, PPPPPPPPP Plum
Cassie: Cum, cumcumcum
Mark: try parachute
Cassie: ***alarmed perplexed look on her face***
Mark: ok try pepper
Cassie: pepper
Mark: plum, can you say ppplum
Cassie: cum, I say cum

More hysterical, tear filled laughing and then we decided to give it a rest. It's amazing the things that amuse me these days!

I haven't seen Mark laugh that hard in a while.

We decided for the next few years, maybe we'll just call it a prune. That is a word she can say.

Thank you Marie!!!!!

2008-12-08T21:38:00.000-08:00

Marie and her family are moving overseas, so they GENEROUSLY gave us this kitchen for the kids to play with. They love it and were playing with it all evening. They haven't quite figured out the basketball hoop, but are sure fascinated by it.

Thanks Marie!!!!!!!!!!!

Just for today

2008-12-03T12:36:00.000-08:00

This morning I went to check on one of my favorite websites, Tripletconnection and learned of the devistating news of another mom loosing her babies. She had this one request for the rest of the mothers: Please do us a favor today and kiss and hold your beautiful babies. Love them more than anything even when they are crying non stop or getting on your nerves. I would have given anything to hear them cry and change their poopy diapers.

Just For Today by Sally Meyer

Just for this morning, I am going to smile when I see your face...and laugh when I feel like crying.
Just for this morning, I will let you wake up softly in your flannel p.j.'s...and hold you until you are ready to stir.
Just for this morning, I will let you choose what you want to wear...and I will say how beautiful you are.
Just for this morning, I will step over the laundry to pick you up...and take you to the park to play
Just for this morning, I will leave the dishes in the sink...and let you teach me how to put your puzzle together.
Just for this afternoon, I will unplug the telephone and keep the computer off...and sit with you in the garden blowing bubbles.
Just for this afternoon, I will not yell once, not even a tiny grumble when you scream and whine for the ice cream truck...and I will buy you one, if he comes by. Just for this afternoon, I won't worry about what you are going to be when you grow up...I will simply love you for the joy you bring me.
Just for this afternoon, I will let you help me make cookies...and I wont stand over you . . . trying to 'fix things.' Just for this afternoon, I will take you to McDonald's and buy us both a 'Happy Meal'...so you can have two toys.
Just for this evening, I will hold you in my arms and tell you the story of how you were born...and how much we love you.
Just for this evening, I will let you splash in the bathtub...and I won't get angry when you pour water over your sister's head. Just for this evening, I will let you stay up late...while we sit on the porch swing and count all the stars.
Just for this evening, I will bring you glasses of water...and snuggle beside you for hours...and miss my favorite t.v. show.
And tonight when you are sleeping safe and warm in your bed, I will think of the mothers and fathers who mourn for the children they have lost. I will remember the parents who sit by hospital beds,watching over the little ones they love. I will weep for those parents whose children are cold,hungry and suffering, and .... this evening, when I kneel down to pray, I will simply be grateful for all that I have and not ask for anything...except just one more day.

© copyright 1999 Sally Meyer(written for her autistic son, Dhylan)

I got this off another mom's blog and thought if very poignant

In loving memory Krieger Titan ZAR Raysbrook

2008-12-01T20:42:00.000-08:00

As some of you might know, about a month or so ago I gave away Krieger and Bodhi to a new home. I just couldn't handle taking care of all the animals, the kids, the house, work and school by myself. Something had to go and it wasn't going to be the kids, the house, my school or my work - so that left the animals.

I found them a good home with an older couple who own some acerage in Everett, and they offered to let me visit anytime and gave me weekly (sometimes daily) updates on the boys. The boys had lots of property to roam and someone who was home with them almost all of the time.

Yesterday I recieved a phone call, Krieger had been hit by a car and killed. She was leaving to go run an errand and down at the main road (from the road to their house it's about 1/2-3/4 of a mile) there was a man pulled over and out of his car looking into a ditch. She went to check it out and it was Krieger. Whoever hit him, must have done so very hard because part of their bumper had been left behind in the road.

I'm very sad, I cried about it a lot last night. I know I gave him away, so maybe my sadness doesn't make sense, but gosh I loved that dog. He was a handful, and at times so very frustrating. But he was also so funny and so loving and VERY loyal! I just hope he went painlessly. Here are a few pictures of him

My little dancers

2008-11-30T20:40:00.000-08:00

Tristan LOVES to dance, just like his daddy

At least the kids have better rythm than I do...

Thanksgiving 2008

2008-11-28T20:50:00.000-08:00

We took our first little "road trip" (does 3 hours count???)over to Moses Lake to visit Auntie Jalane and Uncle David. My daddy drove with us, and my mom drove over earlier in the day with Nana.

The kids did amazingly well and we only stopped once to let them walk around for a few minutes. There was just a little bit of whining towards the end, but otherwise they were fantastic!

We went to Auntie Tutu and Papa David's for dinner-delicious pizza, and then off to the hotel for the kids' first stay in a hotel room.

Let's just say I'm not doing the hotel thing again for a VEEERRRRRRRRYYYYY long time! The first night all 3 of them were restless, and were awake and walking around the room, crying and carrying on from about 10pm until I gave up at 6am and we went to breakfast with my mom and dad. The second night the boys did better, but Cassie was awake about every hour having some sort of bad dream or something, because she'd scream "My mommy" and grab and crawl all over me....Thankfully I was able to catch up on some sleep today.

Thanksgiving was a lot of fun and Auntie and Uncle's house is BEAUTIFUL! I also got to see Cory for the first time in a LONG time and to meet his wife, Ronnie, for the first time. I had a good time, and Auntie and Mom were so thoughtful and let me nap for a bit on Thursday before all the festivities started.

When we got back into town I dropped the kids off with their daddy. They were so excited to see him, and he told them he missed them. It was so cute because they said back to him that they missed him too.

Here are some pictures:

A year ago today

2008-11-24T21:08:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that a year ago my little ones were just learning how to walk. I was looking through old pictures and videos tonight when I was taking a break from some homework, and I just couldn't believe how much my babies have grown up!

LONG week and it's not even friday...

2008-11-20T20:07:00.000-08:00

Up until tonight, I've only spent about 3 hours with my kids this week, I feel like a HORRIBLE mother.

All day at work I was looking forward for the day to be over, it's been a long and very tough week at work. I've been stuck at work until at least 6 every day this week, and it was looking like I might get to go home a bit earlier today. I wanted to pick them up from daycare instead of having to go to their dads to get them. When I have to do that, all there is time to do is bathe them and put them to bed. We don't get to play or sit and talk (well, as much talking as you can do to a two year old) or cuddle.

Luckly I got off a little after 5 today and was able to get them from daycare, bring them home and feed them, and then play and watch their new favorite- Mickey Mouse. I got to chase them around the house and hear their laughter and joyful squeals I've been missing all week long. I really needed tonight, I've been missing them so much!!!!

2008-11-16T20:13:00.000-08:00

I LOVE to hear them laugh, they are so silly!!!!!

Cassie can read!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-11-15T14:39:00.000-08:00

ok, so she really can't read...yet. But it makes her sound like a genius! She LOVES to read this book because she loves scolding the monkeys about jumping on the bed.

She is so darn smart

2008-11-13T20:49:00.000-08:00

So cassie was really into singing Head, Shoulders, Knees and toes tonight and I was doing my best to catch her on video. although I think the cutest part is the end when she chokes a little bit, and then she kindly informs me that "I coking" I didn't even know she KNEW that word, let alone what it meant.

They are growing up so fast, I just can't believe it. I am amazed what comes out of their intelligent mouths, absolutely amazed.

Motherhood is everything I had ever hoped for and more. Theres nothing better than hearing three sweet innocent little voices tell you, "Love you too mommy" every night when you tuck them into bed. Oh, and I can't forget the begging for "a kiss, a kiss" and "a hug, a hug" before they will lay down in bed.

Halloween Fun

2008-11-03T21:05:00.001-08:00

We had some halloween fun this year!!! I had a great time dressing up at work, I'm really glad that they let us do it, and I'm really surprised at how many people actually dressed up this year. My favorite part was Nicolas as the pumpkin, he looked hillarious in those green tights that Katy and I found just for hime!

After a long days work (or play), we (being me, Mark, Katy and Ricky) decided it would be a novel idea to take the kids Trick or Treating at the Everett Mall. Considering the weather was suppose to be a little drizzly and freezing. BAD idea, BAD BAD BAD Idea!!! There were seriously hundreds, if not a thousand or so people in the mall. It was crazy, hot, stinky and the candy sucked! We literally spent like 20 minutes there before we were desperate to get out!!!

Mark took the kids for the night and I was headed home. I decided to call Nate and see if he had plans for the night, maybe we'd go get a drink or something. He mentioned a party in Seattle and I told him I was up for it. So I picked up Nate, then went back to the mall to pick up Yani and then headed to Seattle.

It was a nice party, not too much craziness going on, but a DJ and good music, and a bartender upstairs for just our party. I pretty much occupied the couch all night, talking and joking around, and watching drunk people dance like idiots. We had a good time!

Here are some pictures from the day

New Quote

2008-10-29T20:53:00.001-07:00

So as some of you might know, I'm taking another college class this quarter, Interpersonal Communication, it's actually quite interesting and the teacher keeps us very involved. We've got a group project and we were working on it this morning. As we were finishing up, Natalie told me she had a quote for me and wrote it down.

"A woman is like a teabag...you never know how strong she is, until she's in hot water"

I had to laugh at how amazingly true and how fitting that quote was. And how sweet it was to think of me. I had mentioned yesterday to a few of the girls in my group about what was going on, because it related to a "happiness" assignment we had, which was assigned the day after I found out all the "stuff" that's been going on. I got a few I'm sorry's, which I really don't need because I am not sorry, but they were very sweet and wished me the best in all of this.

I don't have any new pictures of the kids because I let Mark take the camera. The plan was for me to keep the video camera my mom bought us but I can't seem to find it anywhere (ironic??!?!?!). Hopefully I'll have one before christmas.....

Thanks again to all my friends and family for the support through all of this. I have really come to know that I have AMAZING friends and family who have been calling, emailing, texting and even stopping by to visit me and the kids. THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!

ABC colortime

2008-10-20T20:11:00.000-07:00

Coloring time and some ABC's mixed in from this weekend.

better in time

2008-10-16T20:37:00.000-07:00

To all my amazing friends and family, thank you for your unrelenting and unconditional support. I am so blessed to have all of you in my life! Thank you for your help through all of this. It does hurt and I am mad, but the words in this song are just speaking to me right now!

It's been the longest winter without you
I didn't know where to turn to
See somehow I can't forget you
After all that we've been through

Going coming thought I heard a knock
Who's there no one
Thinking that I deserve it
Now I realise that I really didn't know
If you didn't notice you mean everything
Quickly I'm learning to love again
All I know is I'm gon' be ok

[Chorus:]
Thought I couldn't live without you
It's gonna hurt when it heals too
It'll all get better in time
And even though I really love you
I'm gonna smile cause I deserve to
It'll all get better in time

I couldn't turn on the TV
Without something there to remaind me
Was it all that easy
To just put aside your feelings

If I'm dreaming don't wanna laugh
Hurt my feelings but that's the path
I believe in
And I know that time will heal it
If you didn't notice boy you meant everything
Quickly I'm learning to love again
All I know is I'm gon' be ok

[Chorus:]
Thought I couldn't live without you
It's gonna hurt when it heals too
It'll all get better in time
And even though I really love you
I'm gonna smile cause I deserve to
It'll all get better in time

Since there's no more you and me
It's time I let you go
So I can be free
And live my life how it should be
No matter how hard it is I'll be fine without you
Yes I will

[Chorus: X2]
Thought I couldn't live without you
It's gonna hurt when it heals too
It'll all get better in time
And even though I really love you
I'm gonna smile cause I deserve to
It'll all get better in time

Halloween Costumes

2008-10-12T17:45:00.000-07:00

We started out our little trip this afternoon to go down to the Plant Farm in Marysville and go for a hay ride and get some pumpkins. We did it last year and the kids had a blast. No sooner did we get to the bottom of our little hill, that all 3 of the kids were asleep.

So we decided to head out for pictures instead, really to give them time to take a longer nap. When we got there all 3 kids were grumpy (go figure!?!??!) but Cassie was really acting horrible. Throwing herself on the floor, screaming at the top of her lungs, kicking her boots off and trying to crawl out of her costume. So she didn't participate in any pictures, she just wasn't a willing participant. But 2 out of 3 isn't that bad. We'll try to get her next week...

Fall...

2008-10-11T21:47:00.001-07:00

Nana came up to play this morning and surprised us with a trip to Kiddie Kandids for a photo session. I quickly dug up some outfits for the kids (thanks mom for ironing them!!!!!) and off we went to get some fall photos taken.

The kids were really cooperative and seemed to enjoy the session. Tristan's favorite part was the spider, which you can see him holding in one of the pictures. He's such a funny guy.

After the photos Nana headed home and the kids got a little nap in while Mark and I ran some errands. We had this novel idea to take them to the mall (ok, I had the idea), WITHOUT a stroller. Ummmm, lets just say lesson learned.

We found an adorable outfit for Cassie for christmas, and after the kids had been wining and crying and we carried all 3 of them across the entire Alderwood Mall, I sent them home with Mark and did what any woman would do... I continued shopping.

I found two matching outfits for the boys, but Mark isn't really crazy about them so we'll have to see what else I can find. Much to Mark's amazement, I also found the cutest slippers for the kids and their poor freezing feet! The boys look kind of like this, but theirs are black and have a soccer ball that lights up, and Cassies are the same style but hot pink with some flowers and a cute little bug on them. Apparently this is EXACTLY what Mark had in mind and was sure I wouldn't be able to find. Not often I get it 100% right, so today was a good day!

I also got them their christmas shoes (here's to hoping they fit into a 7 by christmas!), don't want to have a repeat of last year where I am dashing to 8 different stores a few days before christmas trying to find them shoes. And I got Cassie what every girl needs, some jewlery. She got a pretty bracelet to wear with her christmas outfit, and I couldn't resist buying these tiny rings that should fit her someday soon, LOL.

And my final find....boots in sizes that fit the kids. I bought some size 7's a Fred Myers earlier this week but they were WAY to big for the kids, especially Cassie's skinny little feet. So I found size 6's today at StrideRite. Cassies fit perfectly, the boys however, have the fattest feet I've even seen on a child and I can't manage to squeeze those fat sausages into the new boots. So back to the store they go, I guess I'll be looking for some thick socks for those 7's.

It was a busy but fun day and they are now upstairs sleeping peacefully.

MY mother is AMAZING!!

2008-10-04T19:22:00.000-07:00

I just don't know what I'd do without my mom, she does so much for me and my family. I am so incredibly luck to have her!!!!!!!

Mark worked last night and got home around 3-4am, and I had to be at work by 0730 this morning. So my mom drove all the way up to our house from bothell to be here by 0700 so I could leave for work. She also watched Kaleb because Katy had to be at work with me, and her husband Ricky was working the AM shift. So my mom took on an extra child. Although she did say, "what's one more when you've got triplets" (LOL). They had a good time and were just finishing lunch and ready for a nap when I got home.

I feel bad saying this but it was actually a relief to get a break and go to work this morning. The kids had a really tough night last night, which involved all 3 of them climing into bed with me at one point (this was a first, and also a LAST!). It ended up at around 11pm I was in their room hooking up the humidifier and then slept on the floor in there until 2am (also a first, but I'm sure not a last-at least not when they are sick).

After their nap the fun really started... 9 diarrhea diapers between 1:30 an 6:30, 6 changes of clothes, 2 rolls of toilet paper on runny noses and slimy goopy eyes, and 3 children all fighing over me. All wanting to be held and have their backs patted. I think I put 4 phone calls into my mom in a period of 3 hours tonight. Like I said, I am LUCKY to have her!!!

The night ended on a pretty good note though, the last dose of tylenol they got really seemed to help and then they started playing instead of just laying around on ne or on the floor sniffling. Cassie got into one of her dresser drawers and pulled out a pink bib (why I haven't gotten rid of these, I don't know??!?!?!), I saw her do this and walked off to go to the bathroom. When I came back around the corner all 3 kids had bibs on and were running in and out of the play room saying, "I like it, I like it, I like it".

Kitty pictures

2008-10-03T19:33:00.000-07:00

I had a lot of responses to my post about Zain and Mizy needing a good home. I'll post some pictures of them here for those that would like to see more.

The only thing I request is that if for some reason they don't work out in your home or with your family, that you PLEASE contact us to take them back. Please don't take them to a shelter. Thank you

Click on an individual picture to make it larger

Playtime on the swingset

2008-10-02T20:44:00.001-07:00

We decided to enjoy one of the nice days of October outside, and took some video of the kids on the swings. Cassie loves to swing high and fast, but the boys haven't been too keen on the idea of swinging until this week. I think it is growing on them...

Rottweiler Pictures

2008-10-01T19:57:00.000-07:00

Both Bodhi and Krieger have found a new home together. I am so happy they are together and I think they will really love having a large open farm area to roam. Best of all, the family said we could come see them if we wanted to. I am very sad, very very very sad, and so is Mark. But I know this is better for the kids and what we needed to do.

Playing in the dirt

2008-09-27T19:59:00.000-07:00

A few days ago we were outside and both boys wanted to play in the dirt. I had visions of boys covered in mud, and therefore have been prohititing them to play in the dirt (mean mom, I know).

Then the other day I was reminscing about my childhood and remembered one of my favorite activities was building mud pies with my bestfriend Rachael.

So today I let all 3 kids have at it in the dirt and mud.

Little miss priss only got dirty because Tristan dumped a few handfuls of dirt in her hair. Otherwise she was spotless.

The video shows some dirtier views of Ryland

FIRST bubble bath!

2008-09-25T23:15:00.000-07:00

The kids had their first bubble bath a few nights ago and they had a BLAST! Now when we walk in the door they are asking to take a bath. Here are some pictures,

Birthday present

2008-09-16T16:43:00.000-07:00

Big Grandma and Grandpa Carl got the kids a really nice and very big sandbox for their birthday. The kids love it and spent all afternoon yesterday playing in it.

Blue eyed boys

2008-09-09T20:22:00.000-07:00

I took some pictures outside tonight and decided to play around with black and white, and lightening the coloring in some of the background colors to make the boys eyes stand out. Here's what I came up with
(If you click on the picture, it will open up bigger on its own page)

"I catch you"

2008-09-07T19:45:00.000-07:00

We were playing outside this afternoon and Ryland climbed up onto the play set and went over to the slide. Being a little wary of the slide (since last time he used it he went flying face first into the rocks), he hesitated for a minute. That's when Cassie said to him "I catch you". I didn't want to wait around to watch her catch him, so I went to the bottom of the stairs to help her out.

The cute thing is that this scenario repeated itself a dozen times this afternoon and I was finally able to get her saying it on video.

And can anyone decipher what in the world Cassie and Ryland are saying to eachother? I sure wish I understood 2 year old triplet jibberish!!!

A celebration of life

2008-09-06T21:22:00.000-07:00

Today we had a BBQ get together with friends and family to celebrate the kiddo's 2nd birthday. I am amazed at how time has flown by and at how big they are. We have amazing friends and family and most of them were present today to celebrate with us. There were a number who couldn't attend for various reasons and we missed them, but are so grateful for their love and support and all that they do for our family! Thank you to everyone who has made these last two years so amazing!!!!

HAPPY 2nd BIRTHDAY

2008-09-05T20:55:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that 2 years have gone by since the birth of Tristan, Cassandra and Ryland. The last two years have been amazing, exhausting, stressing, fun, hillarious, tiring and SO WORTH all we have been through to get to this point.

Here are some pictures from that night 2 years ago

For those who might be interested, here is the video of their birth, it's very graphic
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0eE3TlIjVUk

The joys of multiples

2008-09-04T21:01:00.000-07:00

The first night of the move to toddler beds resulted in a good 30-45 minuets of crying at their bedroom door. A few hours later before we went to bed, we went to tuck them in and they had all gotten back into their beds (Yes, the same ones they started in!!!) and were sleeping soundly.

The second night I came in to find Tristan in bed with Cassie all snuggled up next to her arm. I thought it was too cute to not take a picture, but I didn't want to wake them. So when I found them still in the same bed (but in a different position) the following morning, I took a picture.

Then last night I went to check on them before bed and Tristan wasn't in his bed, he was in Rylands. They were still in bed together this morning so I went and grabbed the camera and took this picture.

They do squabble a lot over things like toys and sharing, as do any siblings. But being witness to the bond they share is one of the amazing gifts and joys of being a mother of multiples.

Toddler Beds

2008-08-31T20:10:00.000-07:00

We moved them to toddler beds today, or I should say Mark moved them to toddler beds because he did all of the work. Here are some pictures of them before bedtime tonight

THE most amazing grandparents in the world

2008-08-29T20:53:00.000-07:00

Today my mom and dad spent hours at my house with the people setting up the kids new swingset, which they purchased for the kids for their birthday. To kill some time, my mom cleaned the house and folded all the laundry (like 4 baskets worth!) and vacuumed, and my dad weeded our backyard. They always do so much for us and GIVE so much to us- I am so lucky to have them!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Here are some pictures of the kids on their new swingset, they love it and weren't at all interested in coming inside...I wonder why.

First Mariners game

2008-08-25T20:45:00.000-07:00

Cassie went to her first Mariners game on Saturday night with daddy. She had a blast, and came home with a new tee shirt and a pink Mariner's monkey, whom she drags all over the house with her, he even went to daycare today.

As you can see in this video, she was getting her grove on at the game!

She knows her name

2008-08-19T20:36:00.000-07:00

The kids got bored playing outside this afternoon and wanted to color. I decided to help Cassie write out her name and she really loved doing it (she's not into herself at all, LOL!). Mark got this video of us, I love how she sounds so proud of saying her own name

We had a lot of outside play time this weekend in the nice HOT weather. They really like sitting on the porch in the chairs, I don't know what it is about them but they ask all the time to go out there.

And then Cassie was sunbathing outside, no joke! The boys were running around, jumping in and out of the pool, but all she wanted to do was lay down on the (very hot I might add) cement and just relax there. She is absolutely my daughter!!!!!

Half way to 50

2008-08-18T13:22:00.000-07:00

Another celebration this weekend was my 25th birthday, or as my mother keeps reminding me... I'm now half way to 50 years old, LOL. I suppose that's one way to look at it.

Thanks to my mom watching the kiddos this weekend, Mark was able to take me out to dinner at one of our favorite restaurants. It was actually my first time at this location, we went to Daniels Broiler on the Seattle waterfront. We had a wonderful dinner and some "quite" time to talk without the pitter patter of little feet and the screeches that come from three two year olds.

Then we spent Sunday afternoon at my Mom and Dad's house, letting the kiddos play outside in the pool (cassie was seriously DIVING into the water-that crazy girl) and celebrating our anniversary and my birthday. My mom even made me a delicious cake with LOTS of sprinkles!!!! I also got the gift I've been wanting for SOOOO long- Thank you mom and dad!

All in all, it was a fantastic weekend!

6 years ago today

2008-08-17T20:40:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's been 6 years since we said our vows on the beautiful Lopez Island in front of our family and friends. In those 6 years I've joined the Navy, we've moved to California and back to Washington, Mark graduated from Washington State University and we have 3 of the most beautiful children I've ever seen. It has been an amazing 6 years and we have been SO blessed!

No Regrets

2008-08-13T21:54:00.000-07:00

Mark was working late the other night and I was laying in bed with Tristan next to me all snuggled up in my arm with his head resting on my chest and I remember thinking, "Gosh he fits so perfectly in my arms" (and I'm going to get all mushy on you now.... )"I am the luckiest woman alive to have these 3 beautiful perfect little children to tuck into bed every night. How amazing my life is now and my God how it has changed in the last 3 years" and I was crying as I laid there thinking about it all.

I know what some of you are thinking, "you take the kids to bed with you?!?!?!?!?!" and the answer to this is NO, we don't "take" the kids to bed with us. However, every once in a while I like to sneak into the kids room after they are asleep and pick one of them up to take and cuddle with me. Sometimes it's after I've had a rough day at work, or if I am feeling lonely because I'm home alone but mostly it's because I want NO REGRETS with my children. And I'm not striving for perfection here, but rather that when I lay my head down each night, I don't want to think back on the day and realize there are things I didn't do that I wanted to (involving my children).

I have my husband to thank for the encouragement to do this, to just go grab a baby and bring them back to bed for some snuggles. I was talking about it one night with him and told him that sometimes I just want to do that, but don't want to get in a bad habbit of having them in our bed. His anwer was perfect and was just what I was thinking, "you might as well do it, you don't want to regret not doing it when they are older". So that's just what I've been doing.

No regrets kiddos, no regrets...