Crazy Days Indeed

Ink!

2008-09-27T10:02:00.000-05:00

After putting this off for...oh, say 15 years...I finally took the plunge and got inked. I love it!!

If you can't tell, I'm a Libra - and who I am is pretty important to me. The 7 stars are for all of the kids - confusing if you don't remember that Tyler died shortly after he was born, and remember that Manny is not mine-by-birth, but mine.

Tylers star is the black one - shaded in at midnight on what would have been his 15th birthday. Profound for me...and a moment I'll never forget. The pain was secondary at that point.

Let me know what you think!

Summertime...

2008-07-12T21:38:00.003-05:00

Summer thoughts...

It has been quite a while since I've blogged...

The first half of summer in nearly over. The girls will be returning next week - work is clicking along, Noels new job is going well. Enjoy some of the latest pictures that I FINALLY found some time to upload some pix. Hopefully, I'll get the opportunity to blog a little more frequently!

You are all in my thoughts!

Working for a Living

2008-03-16T09:20:00.002-05:00

Noel's office view downtown...

As many of you know, I plunged back into the full time work force at the end of February. This is a move that has been much discussed in our home over the course of the last six years. It's official - I'm now a full time working stiff!

I am employed by Millennium Electronics, Inc. I did my homework on this company well in advance (OK, online stalking of their website...) but a few details escaped my research. I'd like to share these with you -

1. When you read testimonials from employees about "The best thing about working for MEI is the people" - you start to be a little leary. Does this mean that the people are the ONLY good thing about working for this company? I have to answer this in two parts. A.) I was fully integrated by the people already working there by the third day. Yes, they really are THAT AWESOME. B.) It's not just the people. The benefits that MEI offers are pretty amazing for a CM as well. Not the medical, but just the motivation and rewards that they have in place. It's pretty wild! In fact, I plan to use some of those ideas in the gym to help motivate the girls. I'm impressed...

2. It is so exciting to have the opportunity to grow with a company as it goes from "Mom & Pop" to "Global Leader". Which way are we leaning? Well, let's just say that we are headed in the right direction but there is much work to be done - and I am SO excited to be a part of this! It is a serious rush for me to solve quality problems and find ways to save money while still operating in the black that I consider this my "drug". I love being a part of something big - and I think that MEI is really poised for this transition...

3. Nothing could have ever prepared me for when my nameplate arrived this past week. It's slotted outside my cubicle (OH, the dread...). My name was spelled right and EVERYTHING! I guess that makes me a part of the MEI family - but I really hope that if I ever get fired, they'll let me take it with me :O)

-SO-

I apologize for being a phantom blogger this past month, as my body and time constraints are going through a real transition as well. I am trying to balance everything, and some little things are being left in the dust. Add to that some very action packed weekends and I'm having a hard time staying on top of my internet responsibilities! I still think of you all everday :O)

Performance link

2008-02-12T16:00:00.000-06:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZMru7FI4YzE

Ok...here is a link to Sundays performance. This video was taken by a parent who was sitting next to the mat, so the view is slightly askew. I love it from a personal standpoint because you can see Jillyan's spinning scorpion really well. When you see the kids move into stunt position with the back spot kneeling like she's tying her shoes - Jillyan is the incoming flyer. Since it's only a partial view, it's tough to keep track of both of the kids, and Allyson is on the other side of the mat - so mainly this video is focused on Jillyan (of my two performers!). Jilly also flies a show-n-go that is the first one to move (they come forward), and she is the point flyer in the pyramid: performing a tick-tock/ball down to full-cradle. Let me know what you think!!

Excitment = finding Fendi knockoff shades for $10!! Almost takes away from the chins!

Let me explain!

2008-02-11T15:07:00.000-06:00

After previewing my blog...I realize that I forgot to explain what the whole "Crazy Cheerleaders" post was!

This is the video of the awards taken ON the spring floor (sorry for the shaky video). If you listen carefully and/or can hear the announcer over the noise, they naturally begin the awards starting with last place. There were 7 total squads in our division, so even though it sounds like he says "second", it is actually "seventh"! The realization that second place was not them hit pretty quickly after it was announced! There was a lot of screaming, jumping around and tears when that happened! Please keep in mind that I am excited as well - AND standing near excited parents that want to "shake the coach" when the kids place well! Apologies ahead of time!

Copy and past the link to your browser, and it should take you to the video!

Crazy Cheerleaders!

2008-02-11T12:35:00.000-06:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dxUQfs_4PeY

Snow...snow...snow...

2008-02-10T20:09:00.000-06:00

Last week, we got 14 inches of snow. Monday night, we are supposed to get 3-6" more. This is on top of the official total for the season = 40 inches. Spring - where art thou?

The birdhouses are listing under all of the snow!

Poor bushes! Poor dogs trying to find the bushes!

Where'd my bench go?

Beautiful FAT white flakes!

Champions...

2008-02-10T19:31:00.000-06:00

CHAMPIONS

Jillyan's cradle twist.

Jillyan's scorp

Allyson waiting for her flier

First Place!!

Allyson hammin' for the camera

Mr. Manager / Assistant Coach / Photographer / All-Around :O)

Silver pulled out a Champion win today! We are ALL so proud of the work these kids have put in! Purple finished a heartbreaking 5th out of 7 teams. In their defense - it was an extremely tough line up. What a day! In spite of below zero temperatures, wind chill factors of -30, the cheerleaders put on a great show! Congratulations kids!

Long awaited band video...

2008-01-28T15:00:00.000-06:00

Well...it's not happening right now! Again with the Nero! I'm getting rather grumpy :O( I have a new video camera that records straight into MP4 format - but I have to get a memory stick for it. Look forward to that soon :O)

Here's a pic of Melyssa playing at the concert. I had to at least post that.

and a hush falls over the room...

2008-01-18T00:54:00.000-06:00

While I'm too lazy to upload tonight, I did want to share in words our experience this evening. Look for a video and pictures to come...

Melyssa participated in her first full band concert this evening at Hannah Beardsley. Attending this concert were the elementary schools Canterbury (ours), Coventry and Hussmann. A surprising 120 kids were there to play their hearts out for the first time in front of an audience. Heady stuff!

The chairs and music stands were all set up on the gym floor (I gave a sigh of relief...there wouldn't be stage lights to mess up any media I planned on using to capture the moment), and the little musicians trooped in by sections - their black pants and white shirts making a statement of uniformity. The band teachers/conductors for the evening were light hearted and praising with some raised eyebrows that had more than a few of us in the audience thinking - "Uh-Oh. this concert is going to be LONG!!"

Melyssa's teacher; Mr. Bell, had the first honor of conducting, and as he stepped up onto the block, each and every student raised their instruments to the ready. I was completely impressed by this, even as he raised his arms and every musician popped their instruments into their mouth to play (OK, not percussion, but you get the point). Wow. All of the songs on the list accomplished AND unified obedience? Ooooo...these band teachers are GOOD!

Camera at the ready, camcorder primed to record: Mr. Bell waved out the rhythm and the students struck their first note, and a hush falls over the room. Forget the camera, forget the camcorder - the hair on the back of my neck stood straight up.

NOT ONE honk, NOT ONE "jump start", NO ONE out of tune. Just one sustained note that brought tears to my eyes. "Mix 'em up" is only a three note starter song - but what a statement it made. These kids have band ONE day a week for 45 minutes. The rest of their practice time is done at home. Prior to today, none of these schools had played together, and it is RARE that the kids play together as a full band at their own schools. To unify for music, and to do so in such a wonderfully talented way was remarkable. All of the songs that they played was a testament to the patience of the kids, their families and their teachers - these kids are all beginning band students. Talent abounded within this half hour concert...

We are proud of the blond one. She did great, blending her instrument with the others there to play. There were six girls out of sixteen saxophone players - and each section got a solo in the French folksong "Au Claire de la Lune". It was terrific. Now I am envisioning her on the field at half time for our high school band, playing concert after concert and living her dream of being a musician. How wonderful for her to find her niche! Great Job Melyssa!! We are proud of you!

Song selection for the evening:

Mix 'em Up

Three Note Samba

Hot Cross Buns

Jingle Bells

Good King Wenceslas

Dreydl, Dreydl

Jolly Old St. Nicholas

Shoo Fly

On the Bridge at Avignon

Bile Them Cabbage Down

Lightly Row

London Bridge

Stodola Pumpa

Frere Jaques

Camptown Races

Bugler's Dream (full page song)

Big Beat Boogie (full page song)

The Poet Within Us

2008-01-15T22:21:00.001-06:00

I'd like to quote part of a letter that arrived here today...

"Dear Allyson,

Thank you for entering our Fall 2007 student Poetry contest. Congratulations! Your poem has been selected to be published in the fall 2007 hardbound anthology A Celebration of Young Poets. This is an honor, as most entries are not selected to be published..."

We are very proud of Allyson for being selected to appear in this publication, the format of which is similar to a coffee table book. She entered this contest as part of extra credit, imagine her surprise when she was selected! Her selected poem is an acrostic of Thanksgiving Feast. How utterly appropriate - as this is one of my favorite traditions, and she captured this wonderfully!

Meanwhile...here's an updated picture of Zaoli in her winter jacket. I'm not quite sure what she's doing with her tongue!

Evan update

2008-01-14T22:47:00.000-06:00

Evan, as many of you know, is my high maintenance medical child. While he possesses many gifts...one of them is defiantly NOT a tolerance to environmental allergens!

Today, we had a check up with his allergist, a great guy named Dr. Brown. He takes the time to explain to Evan what allergies are, how they effect him and his asthma, and what he has to so because of it. In a nut shell, while explaining this to Evan, I saw the actual "list" and "severity" of allergens he was tested for. Yikes...

As it was explained to me, anything with a score of 2+ will give you allergy symptoms. Enjoy his list...I think you'll understand my surprise!

Cat = 4+
Dog= 4+
Horse=4+
Feathers Mix=4+
Althernaria (mold)=2+
Fusarium(fungus)=4+
Aspergillus Mix (mold)=4+
Helminthosporum=4+
Elm Tree=4+
Maple/Box Elder=4+
Oak Tree=4+
June Grass=4+
Timothy Grass=4+
Ragweed=2+
Kochia (Burning Bush)=3+
Mites=3+
Cockroach (eeewwww)=3+
Histamine=3+
Soy=3+
Wheat=3+

We will begin a new medication to replace his nebulizing twice a day (I'll let you know Chelle!)and - wonder of wonders...his Zyrtec is going to OTC later this month. While no price has been seen by me, we are hoping that it will be more affordable than his current $45/month tab (that IS the co-pay!).

Brandon - this one's for you!

2008-01-08T14:47:00.001-06:00

OK Brandon, your Mom said that you really liked the pictures from the Museum of Science and Industry (MSI) Chicago, so I'm posting more just for you! I'll try to have an explanation of each picture for you - the best that I can remember. If you click on the picture, it should make it bigger for you to see more detail. Enjoy!

Part of a control panel in a Mercury space capsule. Isn't it amazing how little our first astronauts were left in space with? I would have been more than a little scared!

One of the Mercury capsules. Look at how small it was compared to the boy walking along side it! They fit 3 grown men inside for hours while they orbited the earth!

Some history for you of Apollo 8, the Apollo spacecraft on display at MSI. A most interesting point for me - Jim Lovell was on this mission. Jim Lovell was also on the ill fated Apollo 13. What pioneering warriors these men were.

The Apollo 8 spacecraft. Amazing...

The following pictures were taken of MSI's model train exhibit. It shows Chicago and all of it's rail lines (the Metra and "L" trains are also exhibited in this), and the freight and Amtrack lines from Chicago to Seattle. The detail in this exhibit is awesome, and I posted my favorite of the pictures!

There are trains that run through the model, and the houses and businesses have flickering lights! I loved this 50's style diner!

The farmland actually has "fields" laid out. Again, the detail is awesome!!

Melyssa running through the molecule room. You have to try and hit 4 or 5 (I don't remember) "molecules" running through it once.

Allyson sitting in a jet turbine engine in the Take Flight exhibit. There is a Boeing 737 jet that was donated to the museum INSIDE the museum. They removed one wing, and some other portions to HANG it from the balcony. There are many activities inside the airplane - but I'm a little hesitant to actually get "on" the craft. Pretty cool all in all...

A replica of the Wright Brothers first flight...

Check out all the museum has to offer at www.msichicago.org! You would love it there!

New Year & New Puppy

2008-01-05T22:27:00.001-06:00

On Thursday, we finally brought home our new puppy Zaoli (pronounced: zow LEE)! We were SO excited to add to the doggie family, as Gooti really needed a friend after Ares passed away. What better dog for Gooti than her sister?!? Good stuff, good stuff...

Zaoli MoMo spend her first day home with about half an hour of "on her feet" time (we were also doing "the sleep over extravaganza" that night, so three extra girls in the house!). Apparently, everyone in the house felt that she shouldn't walk!! On Friday, we discovered that not only can she walk, but she will probably be the alpha dog of the two, because this little boggie (bug-doggie) packs a punch! Gooti still isn't sure how to play with her - so it's a lot of Zaoli running after Gooti growling and yipping and Gooti backing up with a "What the hell?" look in her eyes! Talk about funny! We've been in stitches!

Gooti had hidden all of her "Greenie" bones (I thought she was eating them!!) - and has been digging them out to give to Zaoli. I woke up on Friday morning with four of them in my bed. Gooti is being a nurturing big sister in her own way.

Enjoy the pictures and captions. Allyson snapped all of these off. Aren't the girls cute?

Aww...Gooti looks after her little sister Zaoli.

Gooti sharing her favorite beef flavored rawhide bone with Zaoli.

"Uh oh...I think we dropped the bone...who's going to get it?"

WHO CAN RESIST THIS FACE?!?!?

awwww...little Zaoli MoMo...

Happy New Year!

2008-01-02T00:03:00.000-06:00

2008. Holy Cow! I know that it is said that the years go by faster as you grow older - but I think I need to slow it down a little bit! Am I prepared for all that 2008 will bring? I'd like to think so...but then there is reality...

2007 was a crazy year. We had a lot of emotional transitions this year. Evan went to school all day, Allyson settled into middle-middle school, Manny saw just how fast high school was flying by. Melyssa discovered the joys and trials of the saxophone and Jillyan has had to adjust through a growth spurt that has left her a little clumsy. Elly has come into her personality fully. We said goodbye to our protector Ares, welcomed Gooti into the fold of beloved family members - and set goals as a family to attain within the coming 12 months.

This past year was a year for renewing friendships, gaining new friendships, making stronger connections within family and spending more family time together. I feel so blessed to have each and every one of my friends and family in my life. I am not who I am without you, can not be what I want to be without you - and I thank you all...

Sorry no artsy New Years photos...just a couple more from MSI. The top pic is the U-505 taken by Noel (he's the better photographer between the two of us!), the bottom picture is dedicated to Michelle - I took this with her in mind. It's a genetically engineered froggie that has green eyes. Sorry it's blurry Chelle, but I can't make little froggies hold still for a photo shoot and I couldn't use the flash :O)

Happy New Year every one!!

OK...I've HAD IT!!!

2007-12-30T22:24:00.000-06:00

After much tweaking, researching and whatnot - I've decided to be ROYALLY peeved at Nero right now. Customer satisfaction my ass!!

There is some sort of glitch when you want to edit (cut) a video down from 20 minutes to 2 minutes. The good part is - it keeps the audio. The bad part is - you totally lose the video. This would be SO much better if you could actually SEE her reaction...but thanks to Nero and its dicked up software, you can't. ((If you are from Nero and reading this...it's not the amount of memory I have, it's not the file from the camcorder, IT'S YOUR PROBLEM!!!)) If the actual video plays, let me know...but I don't think that it will.

Well...now that I have let that go...(HA!)

Here's the AUDIO ONLY from Elly when she opens her Pinky Pie Pony. It's a little hard to hear - listen for the munchkin voice in the back :O) If you listen REALLY closely, you might even hear her clapping.

This makes all the searching worth while, and was the reaction that every parent looks for on Christmas!! Enjoy!

Gooti and the Pepper

2007-12-30T21:28:00.000-06:00

OK...so we discovered just how submissive our little doggie really is!!

She was playing with a jalapeno that had fallen on the floor from fajita night (a family favorite), and I filmed part of it. Kooky, I know...but she was just TOO funny being all submissive to a hot pepper that I had to post it. Enjoy the video of my "10 inch tall and dynamite" little Gooti rolling for a pepper!! Allison - this ones for you!!

Oh...and little Zaoli MoMo is coming home on Thursday - WHOO HOO!!!!

Museum of Science and Industry - Chicago

2007-12-29T17:39:00.000-06:00

Museum of Science and Industry

All the kids on the anchor of the U-505.

We took the kids to the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago on Friday. It's about an hour drive - that we made in almost blizzard conditions. Hey...we're dedicated!!

Apparently, a real brain freaks Jillyan out, leaves Evan enthralled!

Allyson and Elly resting in a tractor tire.

The kids climbing the "Corporate Ladder".

The kids always have a blast there, and I highly recommend it for anyone visiting the city for a while. Their exhibits are thoughtfully arranged and educational for everyone. This time, we got to visit "Demo Alley". This is a large hall filled with stations conducting experiments that is "hands on" for the kids. We had the ability to make slime, watch and participate in experiments with magnetism and see a team dissect a frog. All very cool for the kids. Evan surprised us all with his thoughtful questions, and the answers to questions that we had NO CLUE would even be in his realm of thinking. OK...so this is a daily occurrence, but it is still shocking to see him in action!

Jillyan mixing a solution in Demo Alley.

Evan intent on his task at hand.

The Star Wars exhibit was booked, and so was all of the other special tours that you can see while you are there (that's what we get for going over a holiday!), but we were still able to check out the new Farming exhibit and some other things that we were unable to see last time. The U-505 area is always a favorite for the whole family - we are a WWII history kind of family, I guess! Another favorite was the Petroleum exhibit, and all of the hands on stuff that is there. The kids went through a mirror maze, tried to hit as many "molecules" as they could running through a room of rolling heavy bags, and checked out the "bubble show", a room that shows kids how petroleum density is measured. What a great time!

Evan in a submarine porthole.

The bubble show.

The little ones walked the whole time, so by the time we left in search of dinner - it was quiet in the van! We stopped at an Olive Garden closer to home to feed the masses. Since this was our first trip to an Olive Garden, it was quite an experience. The service was great and the kids loved the food...it really rounded out Malabanan Family day!

Elly on her favorite exhibit - the train car!

Elly checkin' things out that are made of petroleum.

Christmas Eve 2007

2007-12-25T23:48:00.000-06:00

Our family celebrates Christmas Eve at Noel's parents house, usually starting around 8pm. It is a long, long wait until midnight for the kids!

Noel is "Santa", passing out all of the gifts that are piled high along the tree. This year, Evan played assistant Santa, helping Dad pass along the loot! He got a pretty big kick out of that one!! The kids all get jammies to unwrap and wear home, so that when we pull in the drive at 3am thay are ready for bed. Santa comes after everyone is tucked up and asleep!

We all had a great time this year! Can't wait for the next get-together at New Years!!

Evans gift from Tita Malou was quite the hit!

Evan loving on his new game!

My Nikon buddy and nephew, Anthony.

Matching neices - Agnes, Melizza and Nika.

It's SANTA!!

Pix from Christmas...

2007-12-25T23:40:00.001-06:00

Manny waiting to play Santa...

Melyssa really DID like her metronome...

Jillyan with her American Girl Doll - Elizabeth

Elly with her bitty baby...

Unwrapping is hard work!!

Ol' Dead Eye

2007-12-25T23:30:00.001-06:00

Evan's Nerf Longshot was a big hit this Christmas. The guys set up the target, and took turns trying to maneuver the Nerf darts into the target holes. This thing is like a military sniper rifle - complete with an extendable barrel, bi-pod and scope. No joke.

Jillyan took a turn at target practice - and nailed the target on almost every shot she took! Aparently, we have a sharpshooter in our midst!

Jilly getting some pointers from Big Daddy...

Dead eye checking out the scope...

Christmas Videos

2007-12-25T22:12:00.000-06:00

If you can wait for it...there's a classic Evan moment at the end of this clip. I'm still trying to figure out the editing process for Nero. Call me blond. It's supposed to be easy, but alas! Not so for me. If you can't wait - or don't want to wade through the Malabanan Christmas clips, feel free to skip it to about 45 seconds from the end... enjoy!

Merry Christmas!!

2007-12-25T21:42:00.000-06:00

Hope you received all you asked for and more!

Merry Christmas

2007-12-24T19:09:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas!!!

May the magic and love of Christmas surround you and yours!

kisses,

Emily & Family...

13 Candles...

2007-12-20T22:31:00.000-06:00

Happy 13th Birthday Allyson!

Pretty candles on her My Little Pony b-day cake...

Basking in the glow of 13 candles!

Wow, 13 already. Seems like just yesterday. Eighteen hours of labor - sheer panic. I did not know Allyson would be a girl prior to her arrival. SURPRISE. What a surprise she was. A Christmas time blessing. Allyson was born an "old soul", her big eyes taking in the world and seemingly understanding. How perfectly normal it was for her to play alone for hours, entertaining herself within her mind. Now she is a high maintenance teenager. My head whirls...

I do need to say; however, that the bond formed between Allyson and Madeline at birth has stayed strong - even though "Chico and Casper" only see each other once a year. It's so cute to see the impish gleam in their eyes when they get together...the 2-2-2 team goes unbroken!! I wish that I had a scanner (Michelle - sorry!) to post the little naked babies on here!! For any of my family who would like to see those two together, Michelle has some awesome pictures on her blog! Thanks Chelle!!

This year, Allyson picked out her birthday cake - My Little Pony, AND got totally punked on her birthday present!! We told her that there was no way she was getting an iPod Shuffle. Naturally we already had bought it (purple, in case you were wondering Chelle), and Manny stayed up really late one night to load all of her favorite songs on it. When she opened it, her expression was priceless...and when she figured out how to use it AND hear her favorite songs on there - that was TOO funny. Sorry I didn't get the true pic of that one...but there are some moments I don't want to view from the lens.

We had a great night with just us chickens (the usual way we celebrate birthdays)...and before midnight I'm trying to fire off this post...SO...

I'm making a dorky face, even though my parents bought me AE clogs, and my Grandma bought me an outfit from Hollister!

What can this be? My hearts desire?!?

Hmmm...how does this operate?

Allyson's imitation of the iPod people!

HEY!! SOUND!!

Happy 13th Birthday, baby girl. I hope all of your wishes come true...

The Wonder of it All

2007-12-19T13:05:00.000-06:00

The Wonder of the Season

I'd like to take a moment to blog about the wonder of the season. The beautiful decorations, awe inspired tiny faces turned towards a tree. The light of little eyes as presents accumulate under the tree, shipped from loving relatives afar. The magic of the Christmas Story and the blessings found under the star. Just the Wonder of the Season, through a child's eyes.

My eyes are seeing all of these small joys, attributed to the season...and a few more things...

*AS IN*

I WONDER how $100 doesn't go very far at Hollister. Are their clothes made from gold, frankincense and myrrh? What the?

I WONDER why Dance and Sing Pinky Pie Pony has to cost $40. Nobody gives me $40 to shake my butt and sing (they MAY; however, pay me to stop).

I WONDER why Pinky Pie Pony can't trot her pink butt to one store and STAY there. It took me 8 stores to find her. If she is as elusive at home as she was at the stores, I should have just taken $40 and thrown it in the fire!

I WONDER how groceries - for the love of GOD - can cost more at Christmas time. Am I ASKING for Golden Eggs here, people? NO!! I want the plain ol' clucker eggs! Why did the price of bananas go up? Is this a hot Christmas commodity? Is there anyone out there that can't go without their Christmas banana? Yeesh...

I WONDER how people can find it in their hearts to put money into the Salvation Army buckets - yet somehow manage to turn into weenies the instant they are in the parking lot. Loose change in a charity bucket DOES NOT negate flying the bird at little old ladies painstakingly picking their way through icy parking lots for their medications. A weenie is a weenie is a weenie.

I WONDER why kids are getting jerkier and jerkier the faster the December 25th approaches. "Santa Claus is comin'" apparently has no effect on my children. When I was a kid - any chore was done without being asked. Beaming smiles and angling my head so perhaps my "halo of goodness" would shine a little brighter - maybe catch my parents eye. This was all in hopes of scoring the gift on my Christmas list that was highlighted, starred and underlined. Did it always work? No, but I tried every year none the less, JUST IN CASE!!

I WONDER how Hallmark stays in business in any other month than December. This place was PACKED every time I've been there this month. I know that Webkins are HUGE right now, but seriously...it's Hallmark. Hallmark also now has weird shopping carts...I wonder who thought that concept up - in a shop full of priceless glass and trinkets, no less!

I WONDER why shopping carts can't come without the ankle catchers on the bottom. I'm ready to wear shin guard backwards, but...you guessed it...the only store that sells them is packed with the ankle eating carts. Ugh.

I WONDER why the word "tasteful" suddenly disappears from outdoor decorating in December. Oh yes...every neighborhood has a Griswold family. Their yard is wonderfully manicured and blooming flowers abound through out the other months. In December the yard is invaded with giant blow-up musical/mechanical "snow globes" and enough lights to imitate an airport runway in dense fog. Yikes.

I WONDER how only the very best cookies can magically disappear off of the cookie plate seconds after arriving - and the not-so-hot ones sit there long enough to be Christmas ornaments for next year. Cookie radar can be a bad, bad thing!

The Wonder of the Season...ah, yes...it goes both ways!

Unexpected Blessings

2007-12-15T19:36:00.001-06:00

Today we held our Christmas Party for Cary Cheer Elite. I am sure that I will get a little misty, but please allow your mind to wander...

Snow was gently falling and Allison's house was beautifully decorated for Christmas, front door open in welcome as the kids trooped in from the snow bearing their Secret Santa gifts. Within short order, most of the cheerleaders were in attendance; and the festivities began. We split the girls by squad, and Silver started the party by assembling a beaded ornament. Purple Squad began by decorating their "gingerbread houses". The kids had an amazing time, and after switching activities - the Secret Santa exchange began...

Imagine my surprise when there were quite a few gifts for the Coaches and Staff of CCE. The generosity that was shown by these cheerleaders was AMAZING. It was quite a thrill to see all of the thank you sentiments from the families of our kids!

Coaching is largely a thankless job. Our thanks come from seeing the cheerleaders attain their goals and be successful at competitions. What a wonderful party, what a wonderful blessing to be able to share with our cheerleaders. It was a Christmas party to remember!!

Michelle...hope these pictures make it into your "collection"!!

ADHD and Me...

2007-12-11T23:28:00.000-06:00

Kind of hard to read with the dog ON the book - eh?

I need to vent a wee bit about ADHD and the choices that I make as a parent for my children that have it. I would first like to state that this is my opinion - based off of the research and experiences that I have personally had. If you don't want to read about it - STOP HERE.

1. ADHD is a very real disease. It is not psychological, it is physiological. Simply put, a properly diagnosed ADHD childs (or adults) brain does not function as a "normal" brain functions. Since the word "normal" has a broad range of definitions - I will acknowledge that fact and not expound. Moving on...

2. There are many diseases that affect the brain, and it is socially OK to have and USE medications to treat these ailments. For ADHD, you become a pariah if you choose to medicate your child - EVEN THOUGH it is needed.

3. The public at large believes that it is very simple to diagnose and place your child on medications. "Mom can't handle the kid - the kid goes on Ritalin." PLEASE allow me to explain our experience...

At 6, we attempted to have our daughter diagnosed. This took about 4 weeks...and we were fast-tracked. It was felt at the time that she would not require medication because this could be a "maturity issue", and not a manifestation of her disease. In school, she fell farther and farther behind. All of 1st grade was lost, sieved through her brain. Mid-way through 2nd grade, upon starting medications through our PCP (it took the entire first 4.5 months of the school year, numerous doctor appointments and documentation from her teacher - that sweetheart), she FINALLY started to retain what she learned. It took a YEAR AND A HALF. If you have a disease that affects your life function - would this be acceptable?

4. Before the head shaking begins, allow me to point out the fact that I am stringent about her activities to burn off her excess energies(even with the meds), her diet and keep a close eye on her school work. This is a daily struggle, and not for sissies. It is not a cop out. It would be FAR easier to let her schoolwork slide, allow her speak however (and whenever and whatever) she likes and go through life a social disaster. I could allow her to become a potential prison statistic, for she would go nowhere without an education. NEWSFLASH (and a very good point from my neighbor Kelly): In ten years you WILL need a degree to work at McDonalds.

5. Keeping your child on medication is a go-to-the-doctor-once-a-month ordeal. This is not a simple or affordable process, even with insurance. DO NOT tell me that I'm taking the easy way out. This is far more complicated than one might expect, and for the safety of the children utilizing the medications. We went into this with eyes wide open. I would rather go through this now, than watch the downward spiral of self medication that is so prevalent among ADHD sufferers as adults. Again, don't tsk-tsk me. I have lived this, and if requested will provide the details...

How can I measure the success of my approach? Seeing her face light up when I open her report card, hearing the phone ring and knowing that it is a friend calling for her, getting sleepover invitations (prior to meds, she had NONE), getting invited to birthday parties, seeing her achieve her athletic goals...just to name a few. I am proud of what she is able to accomplish with the help of her medication. I am proud that she now has the ability to learn how to become a good citizen and friend. I am proud that she is being judged on her true mind and heart as without the medication she is a flurry of activity that is unable to engage, hold a conversation or retain information.

I am proud of, and WILL defend, the choices that I have made for her. Most of all, I am proud of how far she has come through her ADHD, and how far she will go with the positive traits that it brings to her life.

Ice Day...

2007-12-11T23:14:00.000-06:00

Today, there was no school on account of the ice storm that hit us last night. There was already ice on the branches, but we did get some new accumulation. The kids were happy about having the day off...not so happy about not being able to go out to play. It wasn't raining...it wasn't sleeting...it wasn't snowing. It was "slushing". Weird day here in Illinois! I was pretty excited that it wasn't as bad as was predicted! I guess we're in for more tonight, so here's hoping that the roads are clear, the buses are running...and Mommy gets to keep her sanity!!

Some positive notes from my day:
1. Melyssa got to work on the sax, logging about 2 hours today! She's sounding great!
2. Evan went to play at the neighbors house for quite a while, allowing me to clean up a little!!
3. I found out that Elly is showing some great strides in writing her ABC's!
4. Gooti slides like the rest of us humans...for the first time in 5 years, I didn't have to go "dog skiing"!!
5. I got some great artsy shots of the trees and bushes out front!

Pretty ice on the bushes out front!!

Gooti is longer than I thought! FYI - those are not her ribs showing. This is part of her brindle pattern. Weird, I know!

Snowball Blast!!

2007-12-09T21:21:00.000-06:00

Cary Cheer Elite competed at ECC at a competition hosted by Champion Cheer Express (also CCE!) on Saturday. With the comp starting at noon, it should have been an easy morning. So much for should have been! Late arrivals and some backstage mayhem kept coaches and staff on their toes.

Jillyan competed with Silver only this competition, and I have to say, she did better. Keeping her corralled and entertained before Silvers warm-ups was a challenge. Have to rethink the strategy on that one!!

Jillyan clowning in my shades. Somebody was obviously digging through the cheer bag!!

The Purple Squad had some MAJOR music malfunction, but performed wonderfully through the long 3 minutes that they were on the floor. Coming through that event really gelled them as a squad, and really made us coaches proud!! At awards they proudly accepted their 2nd place trophy...especially as the team that won first had 25+ members. Small but mighty Purple boasts 8 members. This competition - they won a 1st in my eyes!!

Silver Team

The Silver team FINALLY got the opportunity to "bring home the bacon"!! As second place was announced, the look on these girls faces was priceless!! The realization that the 1st place trophy belonged to them was a real gut-check for these hardworking girls. Needless to say, pandemonium ensued on our little corner of the floor!! GO SILVER!!

The girls realizing their goal!! 1st place!!

The teams together flashin' their "Sign of the Day"! We're number 1!!!

Fashionista

2007-12-06T19:48:00.000-06:00

Elly attempting to be a little fashionista. Please note the snow boots, mittens and hat; paired with the delightful ensemble of mismatched summer clothes. She thought she was "sexy"! Hopefully the older she gets, she will want to match her clothes a little better!

In the other picture - yes that is her foot. Little bendy girl is already kicking up a heel stretch and HOLDING it. Yep - she's four.

Puppies - 2 weeks and counting!

2007-12-06T19:44:00.000-06:00

Had to post about the puppies. Please excuse me for not posting pictures of all of them, but this little skunky puppy has really captured my heart! She's too cute :O) Their eyes are open, and they are little tub-o-lards! I can't wait to see them up, about and playing with each other! Could this be our little Zaoli Mo-Mo?

Christmas Traditions Part 2

2007-12-04T12:21:00.001-06:00

Hanging the ornaments on the tree is always a stressful time for me. Shame on me, I know...but I think in terms of "the tree has to be balanced" and "the good ornaments go up HIGH". There is no shame in having a beautiful tree.

Last night, after dinner we attempted to decorate the tree as a family. Oooooo...bad idea.

Picture this - Manny downstairs firmly entrenched in a hot game of WOW on the computer, the little kids grabbing the most expensive and sentimental and BREAKABLE ornaments, Melyssa grumbling under her breath, Noel safely on the loveseat (his job is to crown the tree, and he does it very well) and Jillyan hopping somewhere along the stratoshpere. At some point, the ladder became a jungle gym. I'm pretty frustrated at this point, and singing a Christmas Carol at the top of my lungs (I'm pretty loud) while Melyssa stomps and squalls all the way up the stairs, strains of "It's not fair!" echoing through the house (probably the whole neighborhood). Allyson fumbled two ornaments, and glass had to be swept up while keeping the dog from eating it and Evan from stepping in it. Oh yes, it was family fun night at my house, family fun indeed. That was one of those moments that I will look back on and remember with teeth grinding fondness, of this I am certain!

The good news - the tree is up and beautiful.
The not so good news - the vodka helped.

Enjoy the pictures of some of my favorite ornaments, and feel the love...just feel the love!

See the broken bottom? I still put it on the tree!

I really like the reflective quality of these ones. Better yet? They're plastic!

This is a plain silver ball...the colors are reflections of the lights.

Pretty!

Another of my favorites, but they are glass. I even still have all 4 in the set! GO ME!

Reaction to the "Then and Now"

2007-12-03T00:22:00.000-06:00

Michelle, tell Maddy she was right about the reaction. I think the picture explains it all, don't you?!

Christmas Traditions - Part 1

2007-12-02T23:41:00.000-06:00

This is a big honkin' shrub! Manny's 5'7" and standing...

We have many Christmas Traditions in our family, and I thought that the easiest way to capture them is to blog about them as they happen. Sadly, yes...the Christmas Tree Tradition goes about the same each and every year...

There were many bad, bad words spoken under the tree this year!! Sorry Noel!

For whatever reason (ok, it's me), the size of our Christmas trees vary from year to year. This year - Noel and I were prepared! We knew where we were going, what variety of tree we were getting AND the size of tree that we were choosing to grace the family abode this season. Arriving at the lot, Noel (as usual) chose the best and most beautiful tree that they had within our variety specifications. It was even, we were assured, the height that we were looking for! Can't get much better than that! From arrival to "drive away" - the overall time spent on the lot was about 15 minutes. This year...I even got a live wreath (my 1st ever...I'm SO excited)!

He only held it up for about 45 minutes. I think his fingers are still stuck together!!

While our oldest son was at work, Noel and I drug the bush into the house and began the preparations for set up. Lo and behold...the tree was not an 8 footer, it was EASILY a 10 footer. Since we have 10 foot ceilings...this took some cutting and imagination! The beauty was finally erected straight and true upon it's place of honor in our living room. What a relief!

The tree was all snuggled into it's base, and after letting it "fluff" out for a while - the yearly chore of the lights began! Before you nod your head sagely, please note that I am a super freak about my Christmas lights (el cheapo's from Target), and each year they get rewrapped the way that they came, and some are even in their original boxes. Obsessive, I know. This year - lights seemed to not want to work AT ALL. Usually I am an 800 count or better on my lights, but this year was frustrating enough that there are 700 lights on there, but only 600 are lit. Since the 100 that are out are in the middle of a series, those little suckers are staying ON the tree! I don't even CARE at this point. It's rather hard for me to type, as the pine sap has stuck together all of my fingers; but I had to share these stories with you hoping you'd get a chuckle on a Monday...

While safely tucking the last of the connectors deep within the tree, I did the unthinkable...well, it would be if I didn't do it every year...I knocked the tree over. After some quick thinking and swearing from Noel, muscle from Manny and my standing WAY back in the kitchen (hey, somebody has to make sure the tree is straight, right?!?) - the big Christmas bush is secure once more - AND has lights!!

Ornaments will be hung tomorrow after school, with the grand crowning of our tree done by Noel with our capiz star. For now, just enjoy the pictures of the lights...and breath a sigh of relief for me that at least my part in the "Tree Tipping" is done for the season!

Pretty lights on the tree...

Playing with the camera! This is pretty cool lookin'!

My first live wreath! I think it turned out pretty :O) The sign says Joy...

Then and Now...

2007-11-28T01:51:00.001-06:00

Got this picture recently from my Gram...thought it'd be cute to post a then and now...mainly to mortify my daughter!! Above is Allyson at 6, and below is Allyson at 12. I don't even want to think about Allyson at 18...

I DID IT!!

2007-11-28T00:05:00.000-06:00

I actually MADE a gingerbread house!! Whoo - whoo!!!

There is a company out here called BBC Holidays that for a small fee, hosts a gingerbread house decorating party at your house. When I got the invitation from my friend Allison (I just noticed that she is in here A LOT!), I thought about it long and hard. Being only moderately creative, with not so much as a whiff of creativity in the food department - I'll admit, I was hesitant. I am SO glad that I caved in and went!!

Is it outstanding as far as gingerbread houses go? No. It's lopsided, sloppy and pretty funny to look at actually. Do I love it? HELL YES! Having never done anything like this before, I was pretty intent on following instructions. We all bounced ideas off of each other, copied each others creative spurts and had a great time. Added to that...I got the bonus of my puppy fix :O)

Be sure to check out my rather depressed looking reindeer that our "assistant" Michael made for me. I'm calling him Shopper - the tenth reindeer (Olive is technically number 9!). He's a sad little soul! I couldn't resist him!

Breakage

2007-11-25T21:11:00.001-06:00

While I realize that every Christmas brings about some ornament breakage - I'm a little cheesed that the first one this season hadn't even made it onto a tree yet :O(

My friend Allison gave me this ornament (she has it's twin) that she found in a great shop. It's TOTALLY my style. I LOVED IT!! Now it is little glass dust. The cat is toast...

PUPPIES!!!!!

2007-11-25T20:47:00.000-06:00

Dog Mama Millie and gang...they are about 12 hours old...

This little lady looks like a baby bear...

She has a little white dot on her forehead - too cute!!

Little girl looks like a baby skunk - we love her!

Gooti's three sisters were born Thanksgiving morning! I got to spend a little time with them all while their "Grandma Allison" was in Ohio for the holidays, and they are as cute as cute can be!! We will soon have TWO little girlies running around our house! Early January will be a fun time at Casa Malabanan!!

Funniest thing - we chose the name for our puppy on Wednesday night (they weren't supposed to be here for another week)! Since Gooti's name is Chinese, we stuck to that theme and attempted to name the new puppy from a fortune cookie too. Nothing good that round of dinner, so to the Internet we went! After only 5 minutes - Noel found the translation for "puppy love". Yes, our new doggy's name will be Zao Lian. We have officially shortened this to Zaoli (zowlee), and everyone is calling her Zaoli Mo-Mo - 'cause we're weird like that. Gooti is "Gooti Mae" or "Gooter" or any other variation you can think of. Nicknames for our pets...we probably need therapy!

We get to choose our puppy when they are about 4 weeks old - trust me...I'll keep you "posted"!

Parent Teacher Conferences

2007-11-25T20:28:00.000-06:00

Cute pic of Elly that I HAD to use, but...OK...parent teacher conferences...

I realize that this is a little behind, as PTC's were a week ago come Monday. I really didn't have the time to post about it, and I had to allow my mind to wrap around the blitz of information that I get in a 40 minute period (20 minutes for each child).

Jillyan's conference was first this year. She has a great teacher that both older girls had in 3rd or 4th grade. No surprises. Jillyan is a bright girl who started off the school year below grade level and will bring herself up throughout the year. She often has trouble listening, following directions and holding still throughout the day. She LOVES school, she just isn't very good at it yet. Wow. Big surprise. Think the school could get this kid a 504 or IEP? NOT!! Be sure to check back in at some point for my ADHD post that will soon come!!

Evan's conference was next. I was excited to hear that he has finally stopped crying everyday at school, and his teacher thinks that he's a "hoot". Evan socially is right where he needs to be (1st grade), but his academic level is quite a bit higher. I was THRILLED to hear that his teacher is using techniques to keep him motivated and learning new things - even though he's intellectually done with 1st grade. She's a great lady that Melyssa had in 1st grade too.

Melyssa's conference rounded out the PTC blitz. This one was a pleasant surprise. She is doing everything at grade level at the beginning of the year (never happened before!), and has some pretty high grades to boast about. When I had asked her about a week before the conferences if I would have any surprises, she ran down a list of anything negative she could think of. Needless to say, I went into the conference prepared for the worst! Throughout the meeting, we talked about how the positive was much more important than the negative, and how Melyssa REALLY had to start looking for the positive in school. Since her teacher and I BOTH told her (this was a "student led" conference) the same thing, hopefully she will realize what attributes she brings to this world. Ms. Negativity needs an attitude adjustment!

All in all I'm sure that it was a productive day...I'm still just sorting through things in my mind to "game plan" the remainder of the school year!

Completely out of Context...

2007-11-22T20:39:00.000-06:00

WARNING!! Not Thanksgiving related!!

This is completely out of context...but Allyson took this shot, and it looks like Mango is going to kiss Gooti, so I had to post it! I thought this shot was too cute to save for a later day!!

Thanksgiving 2007

2007-11-22T19:55:00.000-06:00

Waiting seems to take forever!

Wow. What a crazy last few days!! I'd like to take a "page" from Michelle's blog and post about the things that I am thankful for...

I am thankful for the blessings that happen in my life everyday. Each day brings a new awareness, and a certainty of who I am and where I am going in life.

Manny and Anthony

I am thankful for family and the support and joy that they each bring to my family's life. Without them, days would seem more grey, and life's challenges more impossible.

WE DID IT! They all fit!!

I am thankful for my friends, both near and far. Michelle - I'd like to give most special thanks to you for being my sounding board, my philosophical guru and most days, my salvation from the craziness of my life. You've listened to me for almost 20 years, even at 350 miles apart, and yet you still love me. This is true friendship, indeed. There will always be a special place in my heart and at my table for you and yours!

I am thankful for having the patience to live with all of my children, and yet not one of them has made it into the roasting pan with the turkey!

We celebrated with 22 at our house this Thanksgiving, and wonder of wonders, there was a place for us all! Great food, warm atmosphere despite the snow (oh yes, I said snow!), fantastic conversation and a Malabanan family tradition - music. Seeing most of the cousins together was staggering as they are all now young men and women. Where does time go?

I remember Thanksgivings when I was young spent playing under the dining room table while my hungry tummy rumbled at the scents hovering above me. I remember the table linens and place settings arranged just so, and all of the beautiful desserts on the table frustratingly protected from little fingers by saran wrap. Not even a smidgen of pre-tasting was going to happen on that table! When did I graduate into the hostess? How can this whirlwind of activity be MY responsibility...

Looking back at the faces chatting and plates heaped with food; I can sit back proudly this evening, enjoy the memories of a wonderful Thanksgiving shared with family and friends and reap the whirlwind - and be thankful that I have taken my place in the generations.

Let the Music Play...

2007-11-22T19:50:00.001-06:00

It's never a family gathering without music! My brother-in-law Tony on vocals, Melyssa on sax and Tony's daughter Agnes (my niece) on keyboard...impromptu jam session!! Hearing this family perform is enough to truly count your blessings!

Uh oh...

2007-11-19T01:06:00.000-06:00

Ahhhhhh!!!!!!

Even with Michelle's post reminding me of Thanksgiving, it has snuck up on me again this season. I'm having a BIG uh oh moment...

We are hosting Thanksgiving this year, an exciting event! With only about half of Noels family able to attend, there will be about 20 of us on Thursday. I have a lot to complete in the house (that whole toothpaste on the mirror thing is coming back to haunt me!), and food to prepare. I LOVE cooking for Thanksgiving, I love the holiday itself. What better way to celebrate than by opening our home to family and friends to make memories!

This may serve as a warning...this week posts may be few and far between. Then again, I could use this forum to help blow off some steam!!

A Few Myths "Busted"

2007-11-18T02:23:00.000-06:00

Clearing up some myths...

Jilly's cradle from a full (not so hot...)

Allyson and Meredith clowning at Awards...

1. Allyson's favorite color really isn't purple. I think it's a weird green and a weird blue. She DOES wear purple, because it coordinates with her cheer stuff, and as we all know, it IS all about coordination with this child!

2. Jillyan was a crossover - meaning that she competed with BOTH of our squads on the same day. This usually meant missing the Purple team awards and rushing to get into full makeup before Silver Team hit the practice floors. There were times when she could have water between floors, but it was very hard for her to keep up her stamina. Right now, she will NOT be performing as a crossover for the remainder of the season (through April).

3. Allyson is a giant chicken shit cheerleader. When she gets close to throwing a flip flop, she tanks because of her fear, It has nothing to do with her ability, she's just a chicken. She IS working on her flexibility and jumps at home, and has shown definite improvement. Allyson also works constantly on form in the cheer and dance, and is a help to me to work out timing issues for practice at home. She's also great at keeping her crews on task at practice.

4. Jillyan has a long way to go in cheerleading. It is sometimes a challenge for her to focus and concentrate on a task, then be consistent in the execution. Each practice and competition is a crap shoot as far as her performance. It's kind of like the Chicago Bears and Grossman. We don't know if we're getting "Good Rex" or "Bad Rex"! Poor little bean...it'll come!

5. Cheerleading had become a full time job. Our family schedule revolves around gym time, and competition schedules. This is not a "class" or an "activity". Think travel baseball or hockey. Yeah...it's like that. Not for the weak at heart or wavering of spirit, that's for sure. We are full out, full time. It helps that we love it :O)

I'm a Bug...Whoo whoo whoo whoo

2007-11-18T01:51:00.001-06:00

Hi. My name is Gooti, short for Goo Tie which means "pot sticker" in Chinese. I was named from a fortune cookie about two weeks before I came home! My birthday is April 29th.

I am a Bugg. My dog mom Millie is a Boston Terrier, and my dog dad Bozo is a Pug. While my breed is not registered, I am a special dog called a hybrid. I don't shed very much, and I don't come with all of the health problems that my mom and dad may have. I do look kind of Puggy, but I have a longer, boxier snout and my ears perk up almost all the way. My fur isn't really all black, it just looks like it in the pictures. I'm actually naturally brindle. I have a black heart on the white of my chest too. My family thinks I'm pretty special!

Maybe, just maybe, if my new Daddy says yes, one of my brothers or sisters may come to live with me soon. They are still baking in my dog mommy though, so I'll have to wait a while. I get to play with my dog mommy, my litter brother Howie and my Auntie Lola (who is a beabull) about once a week. I get lots of excercize and social time with my extended family. This makes me a happy puppy!

I work very hard to learn my "good girl" commands and some tricks too! I can sit, down, high five, "hit", roll over AND play dead when somebody points at me and says "BANG BANG!". I also will never eat anything that falls in the floor. It's hard, but when my family says "LEAVE IT!", I sit and wait for a treat that is sure to come! I am not very good on a leash with just a collar. I really have to use my harness because there are SO many great sights and smells outside! I can hardly stand it! I just pull and scream like my dog daddy because I'm just too excited not to share my feelings with everyone on the block! We are still working on heeling, but I AM trying - I promise!

I love to go for rides with my people family, and I really like it best when I can sit in the drivers lap looking out the window. I like to look out the window at home too. The sunshine is so warm in the windowsill where I lay for most of the day. I really like lawn days, because I get to bark at the guys outside when they are in "MY" yard!! I also love to watch dogs on TV or on the computer. They just facinate me. I miss my big "brother" Ares, so maybe that's why I like to watch them. It's just not the same though.

I am a big fan of my clothes. It is getting colder and colder outside, and I like to keep warm in my sweater or hoodies. My favorite one is a black cheerleading hoodie that I have with "CCE DOG" embroidered on the rear end with a star. My "grandma" made it special for me. I really love to snuggle down and have a snooze in Mommy and Daddy's bed. Dad says that I snore pretty loud, but hey - so does the rest of our family!

I hope that this answers any questions that you may have about me. I think I'm a special little doggie...do you?

Want to see my doggie family and my brothers? Check out www.buggbabies.com! If you get the chance, there is a funny video of pugs on www.youtube.com that may explain why my Mom titled this post!

First Born Response

2007-11-15T22:52:00.000-06:00

I would like to post about the importance of first born children. We have our special traits, our little idiosyncrasies. First borners - only we can truely appreciate the label...

First born children hold a special place in this world, starting with birth. Oh yes...we have a special job. Our first job is to stretch the womb to make it a cozier place for our sibling brethren. Hope you were all comfortable in the niches we had so thoughtfully provided for you. We also worked diligently to spread the painful head shaping pelvis to allow for a more comfortable passage for you - and I will not mention the actual birth canal. I'm sure by now you can see my point...

Our second important job that we have been charged with is "breaking in" our parents. Oh no, you were never triple belted in a high chair, or bumpered off from entering rooms. You never had a weeping mother frantically calling the emergency room when your temperature was a measly 99.0. There was no smothering blankets draped over your car seat when it was 65 degrees outside. We blazed the trail for you regarding the first day of school, the first big trouble (which, by the way, was NEVER that big of deal when YOU did the same thing), the first drivers ed, the first graduation. It was <> our pleasure to make sure that everything went so smoothly for you...

Our third important job has been to provide our parents with grandchildren. Fear not - as grandparents our parents love all grandchildren equally - but we have provided the first of the next generation in the line. Us first borners got the lucky nightly phone calls to ensure that we knew what we were doing - just like our parents, we BS'd our way through those calls!

Our fourth important job is overseeing the family. WE get the phone calls about our siblings behavior (not OUR own kids), we get the communications from families regarding area "news". While this is a mantle we wear proudly, it is also exclusively ours. No one can take that from us, and honestly we don't want you to.

Oldest children bear the family responsibilities with pride. We will be the ones making the tough choices when faced with a parent illness, when helping out a sibling when a they stumble. We do it out of love, and because we have that strength and perseverance to do so. Will we allow the younger siblings to attend to family hustle and bustle in our stead? Well...pardon us if we're a little pooped out from making YOUR life easier from day "negative" one!!

Caption the pictures...

2007-11-12T22:47:00.000-06:00

Some say I look like a pug...whoo whoo oo oo...

Whachu talkin' 'bout Willis?

Yes, my dog enjoys watching other dogs on the computer. We can't explain it...

OK...I'm leaving these captions up to you! These are some of my favorite new pictures of Gooti.

Allyson is currently composing a "12 Gooti's of Christmas" that I'll post at a later date, but you can see how much of a part of our lives this little weird looking dog is! We love her :O) Pound for pound - she's got more personality than any other dog we've ever had!!

Diamon Dazzler Competition

2007-11-12T11:13:00.000-06:00

Jilly and her medals from comp.

Yeesh - what a day. Usually we don't have to stay all day - but this comp was quite a bit different! The girls did great - with Purple placing 1st in their division, and Silver taking home another 2nd. Silver has some problems with the routine, and were off first place by 5 points - AGAIN. Once these girls get their execution together - they'll be a force to be reckoned with!! Jillyan competed as a cross over hopefully for the last time. It really is starting to wear her out on comp days. All in all:

Great Job Girls!!

Allyson stretching up a scorpion while arguing with her sister...

Running with Scissors...

2007-11-12T10:23:00.000-06:00

Evan rockin' out on Guitar Hero III!

Well inspired by Wendy's blog about parenting...I've decided to share some of our "off moments" - for lack of a better way to say it. Some questionable parenting "tactics", some situations that I refuse to be drawn into and the overall chaos trying to parent six kids...

I hear "How do you do it?" quite frequently. Here's the best answer that I can give these baffled people.

1. Have a sense of humor.

2. Don't sweat the small stuff.

3. Pick your battles.

4. Leave your expectations with the maternity clothes.

Having a sense of humor is critical when your patience is at the bottom of the ninth and your little "batter" is fresh off the bench. 18 hour lipstick all over your childs face (never mind that the tube cost you $20 or better) is something to laugh over. Watching your child attempt to "clean up" their mess before you see it is something to laugh over. Above all - when the school calls you and asks you to explain some eclectic behavior that your little angel has been exhibiting - is something to laugh over. Anything but a life can be replaced or fixed. Most of the time, what you may screech over today, will be stories told laughing around the dinner table tomorrow.

Don't sweat the small stuff is REALLY critical when trying to organize a family outing. As anyone with kids is aware - the Normandy invasion was probably easier to coordinate than this feat. So your daughters hair is not how you would like it. So your son wants to wear snow boots with his shorts. Big deal if the purse full of Polly Pockets CAN NOT be left at home. You just bring a bigger bag with a brush, extra shoes and plenty of space to toss in the overflowing Polly purse. This two minute fix is faster than the 20 minute meltdown and HOURS of endless pouting. Take the hard line ONLY when it matters most. Everything else is irrelevant.

Picking your battles is a harder tactic to employ. Daughters have an uncanny way of digging an issue under your skin until you want to wring their little necks. I admit, I will often take a stance based on how far my daughters are willing to force the issue. Fair - probably not - but I'm the Mommy, not the fairness police. I'm a BIG advocate of "deal with the outcome of your choices".

Parent have all sorts of expectations about their kids. The problem that most Mommies have is that they carry the same expectations for each child. Every one of them is different - and so should your expectations for that child. For example - Manny is a bright kid - he just can't put it onto paper. A "C" is a celebrated thing. I would never put the expectation of straight "A"'s to this child, as it is not a realistic goal - BUT Allyson better not have anything under a "B" because that is what she is capable of.

Is any parenting tactic fool proof? No way. So - just to air some of my dirty laundry...

A. I'm pretty positive that all of my kids have ran with a sucker in their mouth. God knows they roam around the neighborhood with them hanging off their faces!

B. My kids all used pointy scissors before they were 3. I hide them all I want, but my kids have craft box radar and used all the goodies found inside to "decorate" things pretty early!

C. I - GASP - allowed my kids to play with things that WOULD HAVE fit through a toilet paper tube before they were 3. With Evan, Lego's kept me sane most days!

D. Most of the kids have watched PG-13 movies. If you think that they don't hear anything in these movies at school - pull the bag off of your head. It's there, you are just in denial. The reality is that the words are pretty common on the playground and even at the park.

E. Most of the time, their socks don't exactly match. I gave up on this master feat after collecting an entire hamper full of unmatched socks. Before you ask - no I don't know where they all go. Most of the time, MY socks don't exactly match either.

F. I am not above hiding the "good" hair products from my daughters. The oldest is 12. She'll get by just fine with Suave products.

G. I listen to unedited music. Again, even with the words bleeped out, they can figure it out. It doesn't take a rocket scientist - and my kids are pretty slick!

H. We live in organized chaos. My house is rarely "company ready". I'm OK with that. The time I spend with my kids are more important to me than a spotless home. When they look back on childhood, I want them to say that they spent a lot time with their mom - not that we never had toothpaste on the mirror!

I. Yes, they play video games. Sometimes even on a school night!

That concludes my parenting rant. My best advice: every family is different - you use what works for you!

I See You!

2007-11-09T00:00:00.000-06:00

While this weird big virus thing is making rounds through the house (OK - so far only Elly has caught it, but I'm out of Lysol), we are preparing for the weekend from Hades. Fun, fun. I don't think that I've swept the living room/dining room floor for a week (it's pergo), my coffee table is running over with school papers, there is still laundry on the love seat, and somewhere in the bathroom is a trash can. All the doorknobs, phones, bedding and towels are disinfected...BUT... Some may cringe, but we are a two man cleaning service upon a six man wrecking crew. Imagine a daycare exploding. Yeah, it's a little like that...

Meanwhile, in Real-Life-Outside-the-House Land; we have tumbling, practice, a competition, a birthday party, and endless preparations for each. I'm still trying to play catch up from being a zombie for 5 days. As I type this, uniforms are in the dryer, clothes are in the washer for all of us, a leftover lasagna awaits for tomorrows dinner in the fridge, clothes are laid out for school and errands Elly and I will run tomorrow are posted on the white board. There are medications to be picked up at the pharmacy, dental floss to find (to sew in hair), an interview (for a friends paper for a class at school), copies to be made for competition information, a "date" to get the gifts shored up for Sunday - and I'm not including for my mother in laws birthday party - mainly because I don't know what I need to do yet!

My point here - if I haven't completely lost it - you will pay if you don't stay on top of your game. Responsibilities peek around all the crap on the floor and say "I see you!" and you are just screwed for your slacking...sick or not. Such is the life of a Mommy...

Daddy Got Me Ponies!

2007-11-04T23:54:00.000-06:00

Warrior

Copper

Mr. Yet Unnamed

A tiny little bone of contention between my sister and I...I have dibs in Warrior and the new baby pony...Lyz has dibs on Copper. I say they are ALL MINE!!!! MWAH MWAH MWAH!!

My Dad has decided to take up mini horses as his next hobby. These are his current pride and joy... Cute little guys aren't they?

Feeling Blah...

2007-11-04T23:11:00.000-06:00

I didn't make the cookies in the picture. My friend Allison did...

We have some bugs going around the area. Luckily, the kids haven't gotten it - BUT - naturally Mommy did. Sore throat, fever, aches and pains. Blah. Antibiotics go a long way in clearing up a slimy throat, but I'm still feeling pretty yucky. Saturday was TONS of fun. Coaching through that crap was pretty nasty...especially since I had some choreography to teach, and coaching is a lot of yelling 8 counts over music. Since we have a competition a week from today, there was no sleeping through that one!

This next competition will be a real eye opener for some of these girls. There will be multiple divisions competing throughout the day - from school programs to recreation leagues to all stars. I'm excited to see a special needs squad on the roster as well. The two squads compete about 3.5 hours apart, so there will be plenty of time for them to soak it all in. I hope that this allows these girls to realize and give thanks for their God given talents.

I have one addition to this post - my husband has by large left me alone this weekend to wallow in my own misery. While this sounds pretty negative - let me explain...

I DID NOT have to:

answer the phone

feed the masses (oh yes he did!)

clean up the kitchen

entertain the kids

referee arguments

feed/walk the dog

Who was that man?!?!

Happy Halloween!

2007-10-31T22:04:00.001-05:00

Happy Halloween!

We love this holiday, spend much time decorating (I can't WAIT to get a house!), much time preparing, and much time hiding the candy!

Enjoy the posts - I had to split them up to get the pictures that I wanted of each of them on here...sorry if it's a little lengthy!

Neighborhood Ghouls

2007-10-31T22:00:00.001-05:00

Neighborhood Spooks before the great "Trick-or-Treat Adventure"...

Neighbor Michael - a girl

Manny - the Pimp

Jillyan - Sleepover Nightmare

Evan - Ninja

Elly - Witch

Neighbor Jeremy - Dragon

Melyssa - Zombie Waitress

Lil' Witchy Woman

2007-10-31T21:51:00.000-05:00

Elly was a witch - but refused make up. I finally talked her into a silver glitter star. What a little trooper! She made it through the whole thing - and was lugging about 10 pounds of candy in her little pumpkin. Since I had a big shoulder bag with me (every non-essential piece of costume ended up there - this year I was PREPARED!!), I talked her into dumping in her candy. All fine and good until we came to the next house...

Elly refused to go to the door stating "I am NOT going trick or treating without candy in my pumpkin."

OK - back into the pumpkin goes a handful of candy.

"Oh Mommy," Elly gives the stink eye. "I'm better than THAT!"

Mommy gives back the stink eye.

Elly decides it's in her best interest to go to the door with the candy she has...

Mis-match Girl

2007-10-31T21:45:00.000-05:00

Allyson decided to go around with her friends - so no group pictures. We caught up later this evening for an impromptu photo session - which she made the most of. Yeesh. Allyson also took Gooti with her and the gang. I was more than a little suprised that Gooti had gotten her own stash of Halloween goodies! Milk Bone, anyone?

Ninja Boy...

2007-10-31T21:42:00.000-05:00

Evan went as a ninja - complete with the swords and moves - and was slowing WAY down about half way in! Luckily, his big brother was there to help keep him motivated to "go the distance"! Mr. Analytical had to pick apart each houses' Halloween decorations and decide which effect worked best to be "real". It was like trick or treating with a professor...

Sleepover Nightmare

2007-10-31T21:40:00.001-05:00

Jillyan trick or treated as a sleepover nightmare. Her hair was a literal rats nest with a curler hanging out of it...again, I think she looked pretty great! She even had the "mud mask" thing going for her!

The Zombie Cafe

2007-10-31T21:31:00.000-05:00

Melyssa was dressed as a Zombie Waitress...a great friend of mine who owns her own embroidery business made her the waitress apron, and she carried a tray with cockroaches, worms and eyeballs glued on it. It looked great!! She even got serenaded by a fellow "zombie"! It was awesome!

Pimpin' ain't easy!

2007-10-31T21:24:00.000-05:00

OK...so Manny went as a pimp. Funny by itself, but when the neighbor boy dressed up like a girl - let's say it was even more hilarious! It was pretty hard to keep a straight face through the pictures!!

As usual, Manny helped wrangle the younger two, since Allyson went about her merry way with her friends. Manny didn't mind - he at least scores some candy from the deal!! Apparently at some point, there was a difference of opinion over who got to play with the pimp cane!!

Pumpkin Carving AND a Fashion Show

2007-10-29T21:50:00.000-05:00

Digging out their pumpkin guts!

Melyssa and Jillyan posing with their pumpkin creation - for once they actually agreed to share something AND agreed what to put on it! WOW!! Mark a calendar!

Halloween Cuties!

Naturally...Allyson can't have pictures taken without clowning around, or putting her best modeling face forward! Elly looks more than a little enthralled with the glowing pumpkin!

It was chilly here tonight for the pumpkin lighting...hopefully their Halloween costumes won't need to be swallowed by winter coats. I have the hot chocolate ready for after Trick or Treat (helps warm up and cut down on the loot consumption), the costumes are mostly put together, and the older kids have concrete Trick or Treat strategies! I guess we're ready for Halloween! Manny plans to be Flavor Flav, Allyson is going as mismatch girl, Melyssa will be a zombie waitress, Jillyan - the jury is still out on that one, Evan is a ninja and Elly will either be a cat or a ballerina. I paid a lot of $$ for her dance costume that she wore ONCE!!

The kids are excited. We weighed the loot a couple of years in a row and total weight per year averaged out to 65 pounds. Oh the fun trying to hide that!

Family Pumpkins 2007

2007-10-29T21:40:00.001-05:00

Pumpkin Lighting 2007

All of the kids got into the fun!

Noel really applied his artistic side in rendering a pretty fantastic ghost. No stencil...just his imagination!! We thought it turned out great!

Living Traditions

2007-10-28T22:24:00.000-05:00

As Fall is in full swing here in Illinois, and the winter holiday's are approaching, I find myself growing more and more nostalgic...

Apples - the scent, texture and taste of the fruit reminds me of my Grandparents house, where a peck or two always sat waiting on the screened porch. Even with a bitter chill in the air, the aroma of apples would waft through the welcoming door. It brings to mind rustling leaves, the sound of wind through the majestic trees along the sidewalk and streetlights winking on ever earlier as the seasons changed...

My family is from West Virginia. While I was born and raised in Ohio, there are many southern traditions that remain strong that I want to pass along to my children. So many lost arts that are being replaced by an immediate gratification society...

I can remember my grandmother, great-grandmother and great-aunt canning and "putting up" food to last through the winter and into the next canning season. I'll admit...for so long the ease of opening a can from the grocery store held much magic for me as I struggled to put together a healthy dinner for the table every night. After some thought, and a lot of long distance help from my Grandma Wackenheim - this summer I began to can myself.

Preparations can be lengthy for some items, but to my surprise, the entire family eagerly took on the tasks! All of us, including Evan and Elly, snapped green beans. Allyson helped by peeling tomatoes and apples, Melyssa also took turns with the paring knife. Jillyan was an awesome runner to supply cries of "More apples!" or "Wash more berries!". Manny's endurance for running from kitchen to garage for items and supplies was much needed, and Noel peeled and mashed and stirred and ran timers and did whatever else needed done, the trooper that he is!

This summer was a lesson for me in teamwork, and this winter our family will be able to reap the fruits of our labors. I can't get anyone to pick their socks up off the floor, but my pantry is bursting at the seems with gleaming jars of family pride and togetherness. I am humbled...

This season, we were able to can strawberry jelly and jam, double berry mango jam, orange marmalade, dill pickles, peaches, green beans, tomatoes, tomato juice, ketchup and apple butter. Not too shabby for beginners! We are already making plans for next summers pantry fillers!

The box always seems to be more fun...

2007-10-28T22:12:00.000-05:00

This year for my birthday, my Grandmother bought me a roasting pan. To make things easier during the massive cooking and canning projects that I embark upon, this massive electric roaster has already come in handy! This weekend was apple butter time at our house (late, I am aware), any the kids were all involved in the preparation and making of this treat! Evan stayed well preoccupied with the box...which while big, it still surprised us all that he was able to fit entirely inside the box - flaps closed! There was even still some packing material left inside! If you look closely at the above picture, you can see some little fingers waggling through the crack in the flaps...

Flying High!

2007-10-21T22:37:00.000-05:00

Jilly's show-n-go
Wow! What a day!
The purple squad, out youth level 1, placed third at competition today after 3 music false starts. We were pretty proud of the way those girls kept it together on the floor!! What an awesome way to get into the groove of this sport! Luckily, we have some experienced cheerleaders that are really mentoring the "newbies" on this squad. Without them - I think that this competition could have gone the other way. These girls kept their cool and delivered us a great routine and floor presence! Way to go Purple!!
The Silver Squad placed 2nd out of 8 squads in their division. We have 12 on that squad, and were competiting against squads of 21 - 31. Imagine our excitement when the places were called...from 8th of course. I don't think a single one of us coaches have fingernails left!! What an awesome execution of an awesome routine...the only place we have to go is UP!! Go Silver!!

more pix from comp

2007-10-21T22:31:00.000-05:00

YEAH BABY!!

Purple Squad = 3rd / 4
Silver Squad = 2nd / 8

Haunted Chicago - Hull House

2007-10-19T17:26:00.000-05:00

Can you see it?

Gazing through the window at Hull House, a nefarious characters fixes it's gaze on the tourists...

I can honestly tell you that there was no one in the house at the time of our tour, and this was not vi sable to anyone on the tour. Sherry's camera was the only tourist camera to capture this picture.

Hull House has been named one of THE most haunted locations in the United States. The premise of the book/movie "Rosemary's Baby" was taken from Hull House lore. I'll let you research the story of the Hull House...and just say that this was not the only interesting picture to be taken at the Hull that night (Wendy, the others are posted on myspace). Open your mind...and see what you can see...

Haunted Chicago - Death Alley

2007-10-19T17:18:00.000-05:00

For those who believe...

A very good friend of mine and I finally took a Haunted Chicago Tour. No fun house antics here - just history. Can you see anything in the orb?

This picture (the second is a crop of the origional) was taken in Death Alley. This alley is behind the site of the Iriquois Theater Fire. I'm not going to explain the fire, or the circumstances behind the naming of Death Alley - I'll let you research it...and draw your own conclusions...

First LOST tooth...

2007-10-12T23:56:00.000-05:00

Still just wigglin'!

Yes, today Evan came home from school with his first baby tooth in a baggie. Where has time gone? When we moved here, he had no teeth (they were a little late). Now he can be a bona fide Halloween jack - o' - lantern if I painted his face orange. How is it my baby boy is suddenly looking like something that does NOT resemble a baby? Am I truly packing his back pack and sending him off to school - ALL DAY?!? What happened to my endearing drooling "Bo-bah" who was counting at me in languages (first couple of days I thought it was new gibberish - turns out it was Spanish and Tagalog). Where has time gone? I know that he has a baby sister, and four older siblings that I've had gut-checks on before - but Evan is my baby boy...

Fear in labor and the ultimate joy of his birth...the chapped cheeks pinkened from his never ending supply of drool...his first head bashing on the kitchen table...cheering him through his first steps to the "other baby" in the mirror...the kick in the gut and helplessness while holding him through his first grand mal seizure...the fantastic realization that his mind is absolutely amazing...watching too short legs try to climb onto the school bus for kindergarten...hearing him struggle to breathe through his near respiratory arrest episode...watching him solve a video game in about 5 hours...

While watching that first baby tooth wiggle and seeing the sheer joy in his face coming up the stairs clutching his precious cargo, I had a "moment"...for in that baggie nestled within the rough school paper towel was the absolute certainty of the Tooth Fairy. Childhood beliefs that they lose so quickly - reminding their parents that true childhood is indeed fleeting, leaving us reeling with the realization that the speed limit on the road from Infant to Young Adult is faster than any of us truly want...as evidenced by the 17th birthday of our oldest tomorrow.

Big News - well for us anyway...

2007-10-12T23:49:00.000-05:00

The stinky purple cast is GONE!!! I haven't exactly gotten a picture of her arms yet, but this pic was too cute not to post. Scary how much older she looks than she actually is...

Competition is a go, but limited basing (depends on her). I don't think she'll be ready to bear weight on it and not dump her flier. She says it hurts pretty bad when she "whale tails" her hand, so I'm betting on a back spot for October...November will be wait and see...

Apologies ahead of time...

2007-10-09T21:55:00.000-05:00

I'll apologize ahead of time...I haven't blogged for a week, and had a bit to catch up on. It was a crazy five days...no school for the younger kids, our 5th Anniversary and my birthday kept us hopping! Enjoy the rare instance where my brain is too fried to function through an actual thought - even more rare is the inability for me to put these thoughts on "paper".

Funnin' around on the days off :O)

2007-10-09T21:45:00.000-05:00

Evan's 1st loose tooth...and the final days of the purple cast!

The five days off had quite a bit of drama, fights, play dates...you name it - we had it!! They thought "vacation", I thought "more work for me". The weather was nice, and there was a lot of outside time - but enough indoor time to completely TRASH my house...I pray for patience...

A little culture...

2007-10-09T21:37:00.000-05:00

Melyssa and I were invited to attend a Cultural Fair by a friend of Melyssa's. Melyssa couldn't walk past the Henna artist...and I think it turned out pretty fabulous! It's amazing that all of this art work took about 5 minutes - and this is one of the less detailed designs that she offered. All I can say is WOW!

They went BACK to school!!!!!!!!

2007-10-09T21:15:00.001-05:00

Jillyan workin' that full layout!!

After missing some tumbling classes, our neighbor and friend came out front to WORK Jilly out for a while. After about an hour and a half of continuous tumbling, she was pretty wiped out. For those who think that tumbling is easy, I can give you some statistics:
1 - It takes about 40 hours to learn a basic tumbling skill CORRECTLY.
2 - It takes about 80 hours to learn any hands free tumbling.
These hours also include conditioning and strength training. This is a pic of Jillyan working a round off/full layout. This is in hopes that she can throw a pass of round off/flip flop/ full layout (her latest tumbling goal). For whatever reason, Jillyan seems to be better at throwing a full layout than a back tuck (the easier of the two), and can do it on the air track in the gym...but she's DYING to do it on the floor. She wanted to keep working, but it was dark when we finally called it a night!
The next day, I could hear her climbing up the stairs saying "Ow, crap! Ow, crap!" with each step. I couldn't correct the language...I was too proud of her for working towards her goal! If I ever need a dose of dedication, I can look at Silly Jilly and get OD'd!!

The things we do to our pets...

2007-10-02T23:21:00.000-05:00

OK...so I haven't painted her nails...but I DO dress my doggie up. Since this was something I never really thought I would do, I find it kinda funny that I actually SHOP for dog clothes (pet edge, baby!). I also try to coordinate her clothes with her collar. It's an illness. I know...but doesn't she look cute in her witches hat complete with orange and black hair and a reflective star? Gooti; however, apparently draws a line at wearing a hat. She hates this thing...

Proud Blond Moment...

2007-10-02T22:59:00.001-05:00

Melyssa is - gasp - blond. Her hair is VERY blond. Her brain? The jury is still out on that one. Since she has NO filter from her brain to her mouth, and wouldn't know tact if it smacked her in the face - I'd have to say that she is "blond" in that respect. In her defense, she's no airhead. Again, the jury is out on her "blond" factor. That being said, I've a story to tell...

After trying out, being recommended to play the sax by the band directors that tested her, good Mommy standing in line for three hours (more like two, but it was ridiculous enough to hedge on the time!), and paying THROUGH THE NOSE for this damn sax - Melyssa is a bona fide saxophone player.

We have been stressing to her that playing an instrument and being a part of the band program, her practicing is as important as homework. It IS homework. One hour a night total is her average, and she has been plugging away - and if you don't know, the sax is a LOUD freakin' instrument.

Melyssa band class meets once a week on Mondays for between 30 and 45 minutes. There are only 3 sax players at her school (she's the only girl). While her director was discussing their weekly homework, Melyssa told him that she plays every night so that she would have a shot at being first chair. Apparently the director got a kick out of this, and told her that she already WAS first chair. Melyssa, flabbergasted, said "Really?!?" and Mr. Bell said "Well, yeah!"

I'm not sure if they really do separate the kids into chairs in 5th grade, or if he was pulling her leg, but I DO know that she no longer "honks" the instrument, and can play almost 10 songs. Melyssa is also quite ahead of the two boys she plays with. She's only had the instrument for about three weeks.

Proud moment...proud moment...

Fall color is on the way...

2007-10-02T22:43:00.000-05:00

I have to give Kudos to Allyson for taking this shot. She is getting interested in photography as a career, and we think that she is developing a good eye. This is one of the few trees that have already started changing in our neighborhood.

I have to state first that I LOVE FALL!! I love it for the crispness in the air, the smell of fires, the lengthening night. I love the contrast of colors in a forest, the brilliance of change. Fall sports at their best, after sweating buckets to prepare all summer long. I love the decorations reminding us of a bountiful harvest - even if we work in a home or behind a desk...

Fall signifies the honoring of family through Thanksgiving - and I'm a sucker for traditions. I love the continuity of them, the bringing together of family and customs. The remembrance of Thanksgivings past and the beloved that are no longer at the table but among in spirit. The bright promise of Christmas...

I am taking this moment to savor this month and the significance of the season that is upon us before I am thrown into the throes of October. October is NUTS at Casa Malabanan. There are three birthdays in our household alone, and our anniversary. Family wide, there are about 12 celebrants. Yes, that is twelve. Not a typo. Yikes...

Two weeks and counting...

2007-09-26T22:30:00.000-05:00

Two more weeks to go!!

Allyson gets out of the cast and goes into a hard splint on October 11th. She's excited. Mainly because the cast is already starting to stink...gross!! She also participated in practice tonight - working on some one-handed tumbling on the air track. She was excited about that...ticked that the new gym rule is SHOES ON. We've been plagued recently with foot and ankle injuries. Even working through that, they still all complained. The fliers got to snicker a bit...they always have to wear shoes :O) We also started working on a new pyramid that is looking VERY promising. We should be good to go by the 21st (next competition). Exciting stuff in the land of cheer today!!

The Real Deal

2007-09-25T14:08:00.000-05:00

Since I've gotten some comments about Jillyan, I'd like introduce you to the "real" Jillyan...

Jillyan is 9 and this is her 4th year in cheerleading. She has cheered year round for the last three. If there is something that she needs to work on - she works on it. End of story. Some may say that she cheers to be with me - but this sport is in her blood. Jillyan is a 4th generation cheerleader, and I'm proud to say that the talent is strong with her. With this sport evolving to be more athletic, Jillyan has taken it on herself to better HER athleticism. She is inspiring to watch as a parent - and as her coach. Jilly has already made plans to cheer in college, and has already asked to start visiting colleges where cheerleading is available and competitive. Again, she is 9.

I'd love to tell you that this is an artsy shot that I took in out front yard - but the truth is she finally talked me into going outside to critique her tumbling passes. In this shot, she's getting up from stretching...and to add a little fat to the fire, her shirt really says CKB (cheerleaders kick butt). With Jillyan - Cheerleading isn't just a sport, it's her life!

First Competition of the season...

2007-09-23T23:15:00.000-05:00

Well - it's over. Our season has kicked off to some excitement, some disappointment, and overall excitement. I know it's blurry, but here is Jilly's 1st hands-free Chinny (for Purple). The flexibility and control that this takes is pretty amazing for Jilly to execute. Now - if she could just get her actual chin DOWN!!

Allyson was unable to compete, throwing her squad off at the last minute. Having a cast on your arm really tends to limit what one can do - and basing was entirely out. She's usually on our Silver Squad - competing as a Junior Level 2.

The Purple Squad placed 3rd in their division, the Silver Squad placed a heartbreaking 4th. Wednesday's practice will be TONS of FUN!!!

Jillyan pulled double duty, competing on both the Purple Squad (Youth Level 1), and the Silver squad. This means two routines, and double the work! I thought that she did a great job for competing twice in one day, and did an awesome job remembering which routine was which (for the most part)! It was a long day for little Jilly...

Trying to stay hydrated between performances...

A little disappointed spirit...yep - that's a 4th on that trophy...

Wishing for luck!

Jillyans 1st Full Extension Lib - the Lib is too loose...

2007-09-19T00:26:00.000-05:00

Just when your life just SUCKS, along comes a friend that you rarely get to hear from...and makes you laugh when you just want to cry...

Allyson will be in the cast for a month, and be ready to compete - even as a base - by our October 23rd competition. She has a purple cast, and is managing nicely. At this point, she's excited that she figured out how to shave her armpits without getting it wet. Ahhhh...vanity.

Rest in Peace Ares...

2007-09-17T23:00:00.000-05:00

Today was a sad day...after limping along for a year with epilepsy, we allowed Ares the dignity he deserved. He passed quietly and peacefully in my lap this afternoon. We will all miss him. Our "God of War" is at peace....

sisters...

2007-09-17T22:54:00.000-05:00

Sisters

Many faces, many personalities...individuality. My girls...from left Allyson, Jillyan, Melyssa and Ellyzabeth (Elly).

In honor of this, I'd like to wish my sister a Happy 30th Birthday!!

2007-09-14T01:18:00.000-05:00

Sears Tower in the clouds...what a beautiful sight from street level...

House...

2007-09-14T01:15:00.000-05:00

Well...no house for now. It was "clicking" right along, and then...nothing. I'm suprised I'm not more disappointed. I guess it puts it into perspective when you are dealing with a homeless cheerleader. Feel blessed with what you have. Feel blessed with what you are. Feel blessed with what could be. The dogs are taking this in stride...

Be careful what you wish for...

2007-09-09T00:39:00.000-05:00

For those unaware, we are now seriously on the hunt for a real house. Intrepid hunters that we are, one smacked us in the face.

Now, this house is a wee bit out of current price range, and we'll probably never sell our townhouse - but all signs are pointing in a favorable direction. Included in this colonial style house is 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths with a master-lux bath (Jacuzzi tub - anyone?), a two story formal living room, formal dining room, a family room with fireplace, stainless appliances and corrian counter tops in bowed out eat-in kitchen with bar, ceramic tile, and endless upgrades. Beautiful landscaped property on a cul-de-sac with a fenced in backyard big enough for a pool, trampoline, garden, etc. All new carpet and professional painting done. Did I mention that it's across the street? We could literally move with the Radio Flyer, and the kids wouldn't even change their BUS. Needless to say, I have turned into the whiny child - BUT I WANT IT!!!!!

Now, we were pointed at this house about a week ago, and with living slightly above our means (meaning we have a roof), the prospect of me working full time has - let's say - "come up". (It ain't easy living with an accountant!) Excited that we may be able to get the house, I start dreaming of where to put furniture, and who gets what bedroom...all the stuff you do when faced with a potential move. I'm doing all this by pictures, fruitcake that I am.

The full time job thing is something that I have been avoiding going back to, alas to get this house...well, you get the idea. Job hunting has been sporadic at best (like anyone calls you because you type monster.com in your browser), but I'd like to tell you tale...

Like all good little girls, the first thing I do is call my Mommy. I decide to manifest a positive approach to us getting this house. I told her that I wasn't asking for someone to hand me $50K for a down payment (just to help out, see...), I just wanted things to "click". For us to do this on our own as this will be THE house that we retire in, and the kids all come back to for holidays (quit laughing Chelle). She told me that she would put it on the prayer chain at church. This was Monday.

Friday afternoon, Chelle and I were having a good money woes chat (between call waiting and cell phones ringing), when we were interrupted by the school calling me for something (money). While waiting for the phones to calm down so we could really get into the job hunt bashing we were both SO enjoying, I looked up a job online. While it didn't list the hours, I was interested. Same job I had in Ohio, same industry, same everything.

When I called to inquire about the hours, I accidentally got "hired". Click.

Our mortgage broker called Saturday to discuss what we need to do to get the house. Click.

We see the house in person at 11am on Sunday. Click.

I am freaking out at this point, as I am a planner and things MUST be done on schedule. So I am manifesting that my salary will be wonderful, day care will fall into place, the house will fall into our laps, and we will live comfortably within our means in a beautiful new house. Wish me luck...

Turning Flips

2007-09-07T23:54:00.000-05:00

Life's kinda like that, huh... Seemingly pulled in all directions, turning flips to make every end meet. Exhausting yourself over what you may not change. Cursing yourself over every sacrifice you make to complete the whole... How I long for the simplicity of childhood, the innocence of a sunrise and late summer humidity. Not the looming thoughts of another day to live through with minor catastrophes and another season soon to end. To freely think that I am the only one. How can a mother lose herself, keep herself, save herself yet damn herself in the space of a thought? How can a woman be starved, be fed, be armored yet nude through said thoughts? How is this accomplished? How can we look through our jaded eyes and see the absolute perfect flaws of life? Men sometimes call our foresight a gift, yet we curse it as our heart and soul get wrapped and warped around an idea or notion. Our very being bleeds through each step, marking the universe with the stained footprints of our painful thoughts. Invisible to all but ourselves, yet especially void to ourselves. How can we step through life with the knowledge that we will be used, broken, hurt and tortured? This question is an easy one to answer. It is because of the simple and pure love of a child. This love has the ability to muffle the scream of our thoughts, to redirect our most negative decisions, and most importantly, to gently cleanse our footprints from the universe; but hold our footprints in their souls. Tread lightly...as the tears of a heartbroken child are most difficult to cleanse...

Damn Camera...

2007-09-05T23:47:00.000-05:00

In keeping with my theme of life here recently...my camera is back from repair. Naturally, I was very excited and made arrangements to pick it up IMMEDIATELY. Now - before I rant, I would like to state the the camera shop that I deal with - Ritz/Wolf Photography - is AWESOME, and their customer service is second to none. I love them. The repair shop that they sent my camera to...not so much.

The repair shop conveniently FORGOT to ship my battery. Think about this...that's right...no pix for Emily until the battery comes in. I am unable to even check if the repair WORKED. Now, since they've had my baby Nikon for 6 weeks now, and a week before it went in this time they had it for 3 weeks - I'm a little PISSED!!

Photography is becoming an important hobby of mine (tied in with the whole scrap booking thing), and you know I've got it bad when I pick up my friends similar model and start snapping off shots. Sad, I am. I didn't even ask her. After hearing her laugh for about 10 minutes while I shamelessly filled up her memory card with pictures of our DOGS - I took the hint and sheepishly handed her camera back. I'm an addict - but I'm OK with that :O) When the camera is back FULLY, I'll post more pix...I promise

2007-09-05T23:40:00.000-05:00

MORE NEW LAWS!!!

If the school bus is due to pick up your child at 6:30AM - it should come to a complete stop and CHECK to see if your child is coming - NOT just slow down to 25mph then floor it on down the road.
courtesy of Michelle

National Freedom Day should be enacted ASAP. This holiday shall free us of watches, bras, jeans that hold your butt in place, teeth and other restricting but necessary items that we require to make an appearance in public.
courtesy of Michelle

Laws to Seriously Consider...

2007-09-04T00:19:00.000-05:00

Since most of these really get our panties in a bunch, we tend to block them out. I say VENT YOUR FURY! Leave your "Oughtta be a Law" here. Ideas to get you started:

1. Nobody should sell an item IF the nescessary parts to make said item work are discontinued.
courtsey of Emily

2. School should be ALL YEAR, with a few more allowable tardies for slacker Mommies.
courtsey of Michelle

3. Christmas trees AND decorations should be removed from your neighbors yard, and NEVER plugged in after January 15th.
courtsey of Michelle & embellished by Emily

4. Grocery receipts should NEVER be longer than you are tall. I KNOW I bought a lot of shit, make it in smaller font or something!
courtsey of Emily

5. Schools should NOT make you fill out contact information for EVERY child that you send to the same school. Have some brains. Look it up on another siblings form, or >>gasp<<>
courtesy of Emily

6. Older cars should not cost more to keep running per month than the original car payment. We can engineer silly putty that lasts forever even stuck to carpet, but not car parts that will work for 10 years?!? CRAP!
courtesy of Emily

7. Panhandlers who beg all day, then drive off in a BMW should face life in prison.
courtesy of Emily

8. Cleveland sports should win AT LEAST one major championship event every 5 years. They've been around long enough and have PAID their dues.
courtesy of Emily

9. 24 hour grocery stores should not close the deli at 9pm. 24 hours is 24 hours. Hire some people!
courtesy of Emily

10. The last of the chocolate syrup should be easier to get out of the bottle and never make all of the fart noises.
courtesy of Emily

OH NO!!!

2007-09-02T20:12:00.000-05:00

I have a white board - but it's black. You have to buy special markers for the "black board". They don't make them anymore. I found a back up. Now they don't make those anymore either. This board is the master family calender. I'm up a creek...
Why the hell would they sell the boards if they're NOT gonna make the markers?!?!?!?!?!?!? There oughtta be a LAW!

2007-09-01T02:00:00.000-05:00

I'm Emily. I'm 32 - eeeeeekkkkkkkkkk - and have 6 kids. I'm out of my everlovin' mind. They range in age from 17 to 4. I'll have a senior and a kindy the same year. We live in Cary, IL, about an hour northwest of Chicago, and about 20 minutes from the WI border. We llike it up here, but really miss family and friends. We're VERY crowded in our townhouse, but still have a while 'til we can move :O( Such is life. We have an epileptic St. Bernard named Ares, a Bug puppy named Gooti, two cats (Cookie and Mango) and Allyson had a hamster named CatChow (ok...it's really Cashew). I think there's a fish here somewhere too...

Busy can NOT describe my life. There isn't any such word to describe this. Each child has at least one activity at least 6 days a week. We try our hardest to keep the family unit secure and functional through mandatory family dinners at least 5 night a week. OK...so I'm a little physco about that, but we always make it happen. The kids are also required to support one another in their activities - meaning the WHOLE family goes to track meets, competitions, recitals and concerts. Hopefully this will pay off when they are deciding which nursing home to put me in!

I have a lot of little jobs that I do to help with finances, but for the most part, I'm building my gym - Cary Cheer Elite to be the best it can be. I also coach for the Park District, consult for two rec leagues and am looking VERY forward to a call from one of the high schools on the area. It is a dream of mine to coach at a high school (even though I have older girls on my gym, weird, huh). Competitve cheer IS different though. I love EVERY minute of it.

With just getting started, have patience with me, and keep checkin' back!!

Thanks!
Emily

2007-09-01T01:55:00.000-05:00

The baby...number 6...Elly (short for Ellyzabeth)...she's all flash and sass. Her life is a musical, and she's been dancing for two years. Beautiful girl...

2007-09-01T01:52:00.000-05:00

Evan - 5th in line up - dealing with being in school all day (WHEEEEEE!!!), we call him Rain Man. Seen the movie? That's why. Brandon tossed a 15 times 7 question at him this summer, and he answered it - even though none of us thought he could. He frightens me.

2007-09-01T01:50:00.000-05:00

{---- Manny, soon to be 17 - 1st in line. I'm a little ticked at him right now...so we'll leave it at that.

2007-09-01T01:46:00.000-05:00

{----Melyssa, 3rd in the lineup. Also has a touch of weenieness - but is the musician, so I guess this is expected. She's starting band this year, and will play the sax. Expensive little instrument...

2007-09-01T01:43:00.000-05:00

This is Allyson...she can be a weenie...but hey - she's almost 13. We get this face a lot now. She is also a competitive cheerleader, and is a STRONG base. Still working out tumbling :O) Allyson is 2nd in the lineup...God help us all...

Emily's on her way...to the nuthouse!

2007-09-01T01:32:00.000-05:00

{----- Is what I do...I'm a competitive cheer coach. I can now say that I am co-owner of my gym. This is Jillyan (4th in the lineup) pulling a scorpion. Since she is 9, and this is one of THE hardest tricks to pull in the air (OK, from a full extension) - sorry...I'm just proud. And the hair...yeah...that's a wig. Jilly's hair doesn't grow much...