Kermit the Frog and Little Miss Piggy

My beautiful babies let me dress them up again this year! Whoo Hoo! victory! I just had to find a duo that I had green for my green obsessed Evan. :). Now I just didn't know if my opinionated 3 year old would put a pig nose on and be Miss Piggy. ha ha ha. I ordered the sweat suit through my beloved Amazon, in Kelly Green from two different sites (so the green doesn't exactly match but it's all good) then I already had both white, black and light green felt for his accents. I literally only tacked the eyes, collar, hands and feet to the sweats so we can use the sweats regularly after. Also Mike cut the pupils while I tacked just 15 or so minutes before we left the house for the Fall Festival we went to. Cora's ensemble was more fun to shop for on the same site. I didn't look for "Miss Piggy" stuff. That would be waaay too easy. ha ha ha. Instead I had in my mind what I wanted; a glamorous dress that could be reused as C.G.'s first dress up dress! I ordered her a 'flapper' style dress, white boa and a pink pig nose/tail/ears set that I crossed my fingers would all fit. The rest was already owned; flashy pink boots, pink tights, long sleeved white shirt (for under modesty and warmth), necklaces and a  play purse to carry her candy in. :)

Of course they were a hit where ever they went and the costume contest you see in the last picture was... a joke. There was an adorable baby/mouse in a mouse trap and a "mutt kutts" (dumb and dumber) wagon that was priceless and one of them would have won if they actually awarded anything. Still, our kids would have won best duo! :) We love our babies. <3

 

Cora Grace was the best sport for wearing the pig nose! The plastic band that wrapped over her ear caused almost a blister;/. The sweet thing never complained, she LOVED being a piggy!! She even shook her tail whenever asked (I cut little slits in the back seem of her dress to accompany a Velcro tail made, I assume to go on a belt loop. It worked perfectly!) and also performed karate chops to "Kermit" on demand. ;) ha ha ha.

I am LUCKY. My Heart is full.

I don't have a picture to show you but I can create it with my journal. God has been so good to me and my family. This is the busiest time of my life. Before having children, even though I had the best time with my husband, I was bored... waiting for them to enter and 'excite' my life. Oh, they're doing that alright. :) They also excite others lives, in good and in challenging ways. ha ha ha. I do remember sitting and daydreaming on the couch before kids thinking, 'I will never do this when they are here, there will be no time.' Thankfully, I am sitting on the couch as I type this and the Lord has provided these times so I can document it for my family. He's also given all he's given for my learning and edification as a neighbor, woman, wife and mother. I had to stop blogging months ago because I needed to focus on my family more. It was a good vacation. I feel like for the first time in months, I'm seeing the sunshine through the clouds of not knowing what to do. Don't get me wrong, I have had such fun days with my family especially the kids but with the background noise of "i need to do more, i need to learn more, i need to be more", hanging over my head. I now realize I don't need to put so much pressure on myself and I'm not sure how I got there anyway because it's not like me.
Evan does not like to go to day care. He and Cora Grace only go 2 times a week but it's at the end of the week. I have come to some conclusion that this doesn't work well for him. I reluctantly put them in day care in the first place as I had always planned to be a stay at home mom. As reality showed me they would have to go, I resolved myself to see the positive in it and chose a daycare that also did some education as I saw my son so eager to learn anything you teach him. He was 2 1/2? when he started and already knew his alphabet, upper and lower case letters, home phone number and address. I hoped the teachers would see this and build on it as I had no clue what I should teach him - i was afraid of telling him too much so he wouldn't be bored in Kindergarten once he got there (I'm not worried about that anymore). I feel I was a lazy parent after that, assuming they would teach and cultivate his brain those academic things, instead, it was day care. He had fun doing crafts and getting read to etc but he was scratched and bitten every week for months, thankfully he wasn't bothered by this so we didn't demand action or anything. Academically his "report cards" didn't acknowledge the things I knew he already knew either. I brushed it off as they got him on an off day? Later when he moved to a new class, he experimented in the same behaviors shown him. "OH JOY!" Not only there but at Church as he began Sunbeams. It has been a lot of challenges with his behavior since then but through it he remains, smart as a whip, sweeter than nectar, great with Cora especially, loving to those who show him sincere love and interest and he's been very helpful with anything we ask. As a parent we see his energy, yes, but we see those sweet things so it's very confusing to hear the challenges he has had for the past year+ at day care and at church (running out of his classroom, tantrums, talking back). 6 or so months ago, he started having tantrums in various forms for the first time ever to express his dismay for something. We have been so confused! It is also frustrating to hear people judging him that don't know him and I'm afraid, my defence of him, made it worse because I was focused on correcting them, rather than showing Evan the love and attention he was crying out for. "I don't LIKE day care, I don't want to go there." and "I don't want to go to church or daycare". He started saying they were "dangerous", when I asked what that meant, he said they were "too loud", I've asked what that means and he says, "they are noisy". Well, he's right about that! lol. I've never been to a louder primary before but I couldn't believe it bothered him for real. I thought it was an excuse, as he's a very smart/wise kid, perceptive to his surroundings. Daycare, is 21 kids in class and his classroom is also the hallway for 2 other classes so there's lots of noise and even more distractions. Recently Evan received his first warning and they only get 3 before being expelled from the day care, 2 calendar weeks but only 4 days later, even though "he actually had a really great day today... till his teacher left for the day (at 5p)". By the time I came to pick him up that day at 6, he had a 2nd warning. UGH! He doesn't get it, doesn't understand the repercussions or his actions, doesn't know what it means that he could be kicked out of his school/daycare. THIS is the point that brought me and Mike to our humble knees. We just love this kid. We know his potential and we know that God sent him to us for us to be the ones to fight for him and encourage his potential. We are all created in His image so we know Mike and I can do more for Evan and we know, even at just 4 years old, Evan has more he can do for himself and more he can understand even at this age. A wise wise friend and fairy godmother recently expressed to me that Evan may be my, get on my knees child and I realized, I hadn't really been there. She was wise and the spirit knew he could use her to get through to my walled up heart where I shut everyones opinions out, to protect my innocent child. I got on my knees and am still there and there is already progress. I am seeing loving guidance from my Heavenly Father and I am remembering to thank Him for his hand in turning our heads. I feel very optimistic for Evans near future because I decided to trust my Heavenly Father - go figure. I just got caught up in the fluff of life and I'm mad about it so I'm now channeling that same energy to being proactive for Evan (and Cora Grace). So, if you see Evan and he's having a hard time, please, give him love, give him attention, don't analyse and dissect him just treat him as Christ would. Forgive me for being a sub-par parent and influencing some of his bad behaviors too. I'm working on myself in the process and it's a lifetime commitment.
I am grateful for a husband who loves and supports me and our family in whatever we need. He has been very busy with his professional life and church obligations yet he gives to our family freely and completely and sometimes I don't realise it as I should. I love you Michael. I just love that Evan, he takes my breath away. Mike and I STILL check on him after he's gone to sleep to marvel at him, that he's ours and that we even have a him to check on. Cora Grace is still a joy, she is INDEPENDENT and so loving and accommodating, a future mother already. Strangers and friends alike still comment on her cuteness and I hope she keeps that spirit forever. Even my puppy Smokey who's got to be 13 now? is the sweetest dog, letting the kids bother him, loyal still to me even though I abandoned him 4 + years ago for a brown eyed human baby :). What I'm "lucky" about is not really just my family but for the gospel and being able to communicate with a loving Heavenly Father when I feel dispare or when I am feeling carefree. I'm lucky He lies in wait to love and guide me when I'm ready to come to him or have forgotten to check in and guess what, he forgives me. I am lucky. I am lucky to have listened to his promptings and together with Mike, steered Evan in a more positive direction for the past two weeks and today at Sonic, waiting for our food got the unexpected exclamation from Evan, "Mommy.... I love you and Daddy." It's not unusual for him to say that to us but today, it felt like a trophy for loving him better than before and not giving up on him like others around him have. I love learning and look forward to what's next for me and my family members. It's refreshing to type again. I miss it, as has been said before, I hope I'll be back soon. xo Lila

PEZ

Tonight I was enjoying my favorite Christmas gift aside from Michael buying me a great necklace I LOVE, wireless headphones to watch TV with once the kids go to bed. With our cozy home and light sleeper Cora, it's hard to have 'me time' to get my 'Bachelor' or "Big Brother' or "Parenthood' etc on. Evan veeeerrrrrrry rarely wakes in the night but tonight woke around 11p? and wanted to cuddle. As I said, I was in "me time" so I encouraged him to cuddle with daddy. ;). Once settling him into cuddles with a very willing daddy, I went about tidying a few things before back to my show when I noticed the kids (empty) Snowman Pez dispensers and refill near by propped up on the kitchen counter. (similar to this)

I know how my children love to rummage through the house before we wake up and even though I shouldn't be encouraging it... I did what any self respecting loving parent would, I filled each Pez despenser with 5 pez each for them to find in the morning. Evan's is all white where as CG's face is clear. I wanted to encourage sharing so after doing my 'elfing' I went to Evan in our bedroom to help clarify without giving away my secret plot, who's is who's so they hopefully give eachother their own pez (we'll see!). I asked Evan which pez was his, he seemed confused a bit so I suggested that maybe the all white one was his and the clear faced one was Coras. He agreed and went on to elaborate on the details describing his own as "all white in the face and body and coras is all white body but a 'glass' face."lol. but then he warned me, "they are on the counter top (then wagging his finger back and forth), but don't look in them because you will be surprised that there is nothing in there. There is nothing in there, so don't look at them (still wagging the finger)" Mike and I just always look at each other and laugh, not wanting to slow the free talk for fear we will lose out on a jem like this conversation about pez. I wouldn't be surprised if I got in trouble in the morning when he finds these. He's a rule keeper once he understands them so he may think it's bad to have candy at all much less in the morning. On the other hand, he may eat it and never tell me. ha ha ha.

Fun Times

I took the kids to the mall today to find some various clothes items. After leaving JC Penney, you can't help but stop at an indoor playground they have there so we did. It's one of those soft sided climb on top of everything places with a very cushy floor. The kids were beyond excited, BEYOND. I told Evan he needed to take his shoes off first much to his dismay as he was already to the middle of the play ground. lol. He said he was going to take his socks off too and without looking at him, and starting to send a text to Mike, I told him to leave them on and proptly ignored him. :) I finish the text (we are the only ones there at the moment) and look up to see Evan Streaking across the play ground in underwear only AS happy as anyone could possibly be. He was exploding inside he was so excited as he dashed by me. In shear panic of getting expelled from the entire mall and in mortification that my child was practically naked in public. I yelled to him, "WHERE ARE YOUR CLOTHES!?" lol. I was trying not to laugh and cry at the same time!! I found them quickly and he didn't hesitate as he realized this was important to put the shirt and shorts back on and WHEW. no one saw it. I think. A minute later a woman came in with 2 kids and I couldn't help but tell her what happened before calling Mike to share with him. Fun times is an understatement. :)

Ruffie

After a failed attempt at taking Easter pictures, I just wanted to document Evan with one of his current obsessions. At Christmas, Grandma Jennie gave him this dog (I believe it's called 'Sparky'). It yips, 'walks', sits and does a back flip. Cool huh?! I definitely thought so... not so much for Evan (or Cora Grace). He would screeeeeam for us to turn it off, run from the room it was in and hide behind a wall or couch. Finally about a month ago? he started getting curious after his mean mom occasionally forced it on him. He loves it now! One Friday for daycare, Evan's class was asked to bring something that started with "R". I'm sure they meant for you to bring a pet "R"ock or a "R"ainbow but I decided then and there that the dogs name was now "Ruffie" so Evan could go share him and the name has stuck ever since. lol :). I love being sneaky.

Now Evan will sleep with Ruffy, plays with him every day (till he gets in trouble) and wants him in the car and outside with him. So, thank you GJ, you're the best.

Banana's

Potty Talk

So Evan has been a super champ at potty training. As soon as we put underwear on him, they haven't been off except at first, an occasional nap and bed time but for the past 4 nights, underwear. So proud of him! He loves it and surprisingly doesn't ask for his giant lollipop after pooping anymore. He does however require praise for #2 and he gets it. Even Cora Grace who continues to sit on the little potty (Evan only goes on the big toilet btw and more often now likes to "stand like daddy" to go pee pee. sorry if it's tmi), pretending to go pee pee then stands triumphantly and claps for herself. lol. Anyway, Evan... As excited as we are to have less diapers to change, Evan's need for praise and attention after using the bathroom is wearing me out! He goes by himself but if he poops he calls my name over and over and over till I come "see it", no matter what I'm doing. Oi vey! So this afternoon I was on a conference all with my FSA sisters to discuss details of a class we're teaching at our much anticipated FSA conference (first one in Tennessee!! whoo hoo!!). We are all mothers to young active kids, praying they are napping so we can get some work done only... I hear Evan yelling for me then yelling for me that he pooped. I was dreading that he was in him room, therefore, pooped his pants but never fear, he had quietly gone to the bathroom by himself. Whew! He wanted me to see his poop. Yay! gotta go. I encouraged him, told him to go back to bed and heard Cora still awake (1 hours after putting her down. THEY ARE NOT RESPONDING TO THE TIME CHANGE!! RRRR!) so I went in her room, only to find she'd taken her dry diaper off and thrown it out of the crib. She's recently into 'dress up' but here she takes dressing 'down' to a whole 'nother lever :). Subject to be blogged later. All the while, still listening to the conversation on the phone and trying to participate. I no sooner got back to the call to realize Evan calling me again that he had pooped! YIKES Almighty! Again, he'd at least snuck into the bathroom somehow without me noticing but again, I had to get up to "see, see mommy, I had a 'little' poop". he he he. Again, thumbs up and encouragement while trying to keep composure for the call but I mouthed to him to stay on the toilet till he was finished pushing it all out. Boy was I sorry. Some moments later I received another summons to witness his 'prize', this time he said, "look, I made a banana!". I couldn't even hold my composure this time, it indeed resembled the common fruit, and busted in the phone conversation to relay what had just happened. It was irreverent and inappropriate information to share, especially at that time but I had to. My little FSA sisters were kind to laugh a little. I apologize again. :). Anyway, that's how it's going around here. I've barely been taking pictures or blogging cause I'm just busy and when I have a little down time, I've been trying to spend quality time with Mike or look online at houses for sale. Daydreaming we could get some more space. Mike is nice to humor me and we even looked at a couple. Nothing I loved but it did help me narrow my search for what will be just right for our (possibly growing someday) family. So life is good. We are happy and thankfully healthy and enjoying our uncommonly HOT spring weather. God bless.

so sad and so stressed out

I have been so overwhelmed in the last couple months. {hence the no posting and barely using my camera} When you dream of being a mother (for instance) you imagine, throwing your kids in the air, hugging and loving them, watching movies together while cuddling, going to play mini golf, playing sports, chasing butterfly's and puppies... not... Talking back 3 year old, sneaky 21month old, working mommy, busy daddy. That's not what bothers me the most. In the new year I was 'cocky' thinking, not only did I feel Evan was great at 2, turning 3 in October hadn't really hit any hitches either. (i don't consider his activeness a problem, even if it's tiring sometimes) No sooner did I think that when the new year came and so did many unforeseen changes with unforeseen reactions. Evan had moved up to the 3 year old class at Day care and graduated from Nursery at church to the big kids primary class, Sunbeams. The day care move was wonderful for the first couple months till my favorite of his teachers, the attentive one, moved to the night because of her school schedule. At church he had a whole new group of leaders and teachers to 'direct him' plus tons more kids to be distracted by. His 2nd? week in Primary, my friend came to tell me that Evan tried to bite someone! I couldn't believe it. he has NEVER tried to bite, ever. As a matter of fact, we were so happy that when he kept getting 'boo boo reports' from day care because he was being bitten, we were glad it wasn't the reverse. I attempted to handle it right away and as far as I know, he hasn't done that since. That was a Sunday of course, well, Thursday at day care, he had a new teacher to replace the old for day time and that evening, Mike got a report that he did bite the new teacher! I was really upset about this. He'd never so much as attempted it before and to me it felt like he was on a rampage or something, even trying to bite me a couple days later. He has learned 'we don't bite people, we only bite food', thankfully (and there hasn't been any more reports of it). The week after biting the day care teacher was when Courtney called on a Thursday for us to meet her last minute in Memphis that Saturday/Sunday (only to not show up). That day I also sent Evan to school for the first time in underwear because he's been doing amazing on the potty front. He came home with 2 pairs of wet pants and underwear, now wearing a diaper. What the heck?! The old teacher was very reassuring of how vigilant they would be, when he came in underwear, knowing it was new for him. Whatever, I tried to get over it but hoped they'd be on top of it more the next time he came. Friday the day before we left for Memphis, I took him in a diaper because it felt like they weren't ready for him to be in underwear. When I got there, an old teacher I don't interact with was there and I decided to see if I could talk to her quickly about the wetting and be reassured he wasn't biting still (though the school is VERY good about sending home 'accident' reports on such things fyi). I was concerned that all these new changes in his 3 year old world were too much for him and I was feeling like a failure to recognize some 'sign' of what to do for the poor kid. So, I asked what happened that he came come in a 3rd pair of pants the day before. She attempted to explain that he's in "transition" (don't know what that means and didn't want to interrupt, then forgot to get clarification) and "not ready right now" to potty train. ???? I was so confused. 2 weeks before I was encouraged to send him in underwear cause he WAS ready. Anyway, she paused and said, "Can I ask you a question? You don't have to tell me if you don't want to....". Ummm... I said "Sure?" "... Have you ever had him... 'tested'". I asked, "for what!?" (proper peeing technique in day care? lol) "Well.... for ADD"? Ooooooh goodness. So Thaaat's it. He of course has to have ADD. I said, very pointedly "No, and he's not going to. He's only 3." She said she was only asking because he walks on his toes and 'used to' parallel play but now more group plays... and ... "I know he's adopted... so sometimes you don't know his health history... my son was diagnosed with ADD, now we're testing him for Autism".** I'm pretty sure my blood was boiling so bad for not only trying to give him a disorder that can't possibly be assessed at 3 (if so, all 3 year old would be ADD) and that she somehow thought it appropriate to bring up his adoption (as if she knows anything about it or him. THIS IS OUR FIRST CONVERSATION remember) at that point in defense of my sweet baby who YES has more energy that an army of children and also uses his words to tell you NO if he doesn't like something or want to do what you ask. (he doesn't always get his way or anything but I like my child to speak their mind cause guess what... I do!) I informed her that if she'd like I could call his birth mother right now and clarify any of her health concerns but yes, she walked on her toes, so does he. We quickly wrapped up our conversation before I could have any more reactions and on my way out, she said "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to upset you." (not the most sincere person you'll ever meet fyi, hence I never talked to her before) With the stress of leaving for Memphis and the disappointment of Courtney's no show and the swirling disappointment of the earth crumbling under my feet, I didn't 'report' this for 2 more weeks and she "apologized" when we cleared up a few things. Back to that day though, after I left the teacher and drove to work with my brain about to explode with thoughts, I pulled into my parking space after relaying the morning to Mike over the phone and I just prayed. I don't like to be defensive, I want to be open to whatever either of my children may need but I knew in my heart, this is not Evan. Except I'm not popularly opinionated and the world loves to diagnose babies with disorders. . . I started clearing my mind a bit after the prayer and thought, I wouldn't mind to have Evan observed to see if his behavior in a group like that is 'typical', much less, his behavior at home (again, I really can't complain about it, except he sure keeps me on my toes many days). I was early to work so I called a friend while I sat in my car. I knew her son was receiving some sort of behavioral therapy (lucky kid seems opposite of Evan, quiet and calm. What's that?! lol) and I trusted her to give me some direction if she knew, that I could consider to refer Evan to. All I needed was to open my mouth to her on the phone to then burst into tears about it all. I was having MAJOR feelings of parental inadequacy and was now VERY concerned about Evan's well being and whether these teachers at day care AND church were judging him on these new behaviors or what if they are thinking he's 'the bad kid'. You know what is inevitable there, he will be treated differently and not in a good way. No mom wants that for their child. No person wants that for themselves. My friend tried to be very patient with me and lovingly assured me she would ask some questions to qualified people to steer me in the right direction. I thank her greatly for that. I went to work with cried off make up and was SPENT at the end of the day for thinking about this all day. When I did go home, there was Evan. Cheering to see me, running for a welcoming hug, rambling off all the smart things he has to say and I about collapsed from shame of starting to doubt his abilities. I had started to believe these fears, I realized. In reality, he, in my mommy opinion is perfect (ly imperfect like the rest of us but it doesn't mean he needs to be labeled and set on a 'shelf' by anyone). I knew I could work harder with him. I was already successful in helping him not bit so I can do more.

Mike and I talk to him about 'walking on his flat feet', it's good for development of his foot as he gets older regardless. I will meet with his pediatrician soon for added advice. I just love Dr. Coleman. If he attempts biting, 'bad words' (stupid, shut up) or spiting, he gets soap in his mouth and he's really stopped! I love it. We've made good strides, Evan has championed potty training, only wearing a diaper/pull-up at night and it really makes a difference around here. (SIDE NOTE! Last night I was going potty (yes I'm a mom so the door is open for my quick stops) real quick when Cora Grace runs in, naked, and sits on the little potty as usual. This time she had a glimmer in her eye so I encouraged her to go pee pee... and SHE DID!! It was the cutest little pee pee you ever did see and she was SOOOO proud of herself, of course, we were too. I can't wait for summer, maybe I'll have no more diapers Whoo Hoo! The girl can't talk but she can tinkle a bit lol) Anyway... at church, it's a challenge for both kids because as a fact they NEED a nap but they go down at 1pm. Church this year is .... 1pm! :((((( Booooooo! The kids are miserable and therefore, Mike and I are MISERABLE. Even though both kids are now in classes for 2 of the 3 hours, I'm constantly worried if Evan is going to try to bite again or the fact he doesn't like to sit down or the other day I saw him rolling around on the floor in Primary! YIKES. His actual teacher used to babysit him for a couple months but that's no help cause he overwhelmed her then (he was 2 and boy and she had a baby girl, just younger than CG) and I'm sure her feelings of overwhelmment are worse now, poor thing. I have been working with him to see what works to motivate him to sit still or to be quiet and today after mentioning a little each day, I got it. He loves these "ABC 123" crackers from Kroger and asked for some on our way out the door to church. I said, YES you can have those IF you are very good and Choose The Right (just happens to be the theme of Primary this year) in Primary today so I can give them to you as a treat later. "TREAT" is a special thing to him so he didn't argue, I'm shocked actually. He understood and agreed. We talked more about on our drive while we listened to our Primary music CD. He was so sweet when we got to church, after dropping CG off at Nursery (he usually begs to stay there with her but not today), he took it upon himself to show me how he can be reverent and walk to class with me. He folded his arms all the way to Primary even with us taking a couple detours. (that's a lot to ask of a 3 year old brain). He loves to do things by himself and was very proud of himself. I was really optimistic. Problem was... his teacher wasn't in her class. I knew this would mess with his 'revernce' mojo so I sat with him in the 'holding room' for kids before their teacher arrives. That was it. By the time she got to her class, Evan's resolve had dissolved and he threw a GIANT tantrum when we were about to go in his class and I attempted to sit him down. I didn't blame him. Little ones need routine and order and his is shattered before he even comes with NO NAP! Now I was feeling frustrated cause I just knew, he would be judged and I could do nothing to help him. He'll have to prove himself. I just waited outside, hoping he would listen to his teacher and calm down. It seemed to work, he was quiet after she used keen skills to help him get distracted from his melt down, so I went to class. It was Fast Sunday so I hadn't eaten, I've been fighting a sore throat and was getting a major head ache by this time and now adding, worried about Evan to the list (and CG cause she's been coughing and runny nose for past 24ish hours and I gave her allergy med before church. I was mildly expecting to hear she was having a melt down). At the end of meeting 1 we were having a few minutes for testimonies when we all heard Evan's teacher yelling for him to STOP (obviously running from her. :( boo.) and "come here". I went out to try to help the poor (pregnant fyi) girl from having to keep chasing him but she's already got him. Still I asked her to stop for a moment so I could tell him that was naughty to run away and not mind her. I explained she has a beautiful special baby growing in her tummy and she has to be very gentle and doesn't need to run after him. I told him he needs to mind her and listen. He apologized for not listening and for making her run. In the break between meetings 1 and 2 about 10minutes later, I went to check if Evan needed to use the restroom. He did and when we came out there was a meeting in the hallway with Evan's teacher and the Primary President that they called us over to. Little did I know, it was about Evan and I am not happy about it. Here was worse than my fears of judgement. The President let me know they've called a special helper, just for Evan, in his class. I wanted to die. I was mad, sad, depressed, feel like a failure, disappointed for me and for him because this is all they get to see about him. The don't get to see he's started spelling words on his own (mom, dad, evan and cora), loves to sing, will repeat any word you say perfectly (that's hard!) and thrives in a smaller group and etc. I know what is said when you ask for a teacher for one child (of the 40+) in a Primary and it makes me sad, feel like I've failed him. I do know however, that Evan is a distraction, he needs to learn to listen to his leaders there and I can't hold his hand in all things, neither can his teacher control him AND teach everyone else. This has all been so emotional for me! I'm sure the leaders are doing their best in calling a special teacher but it hurts me. I didn't know what a burden he was for them (to this extent) and thought Mike and I were making great strides with him. Despite his run away routine and tantrum at the beginning of class, I had thought he did well, only to happen upon this meeting. I guess he was being very bad all day. :(. It's no use asking him, he has no idea what he does in class so all I can do is ask him to Choose The Right and be nice to his teacher and friends. Anyway.. the LAST thing I need and want right now is someone else to suggest Evan has ADD because I might just tear their head off. You really need to point any fingers at my children's inadequacies at me, the parent. I don't know what I'm doing, I'm learning. I rough house with my kids so they aren't the sit still kind. I'm sarcastic with them and we're all crazy. In times like this I just want to hide them away from judgement, 'keeping them safe' but they and I won't learn anything that way so I will try to be more open, less defensive and listen myself. My great friend Linda just posted on her crafty blog that as she's entered life with a 3rd child, she was impressed by the spirit to never cease in prayer (Moses 1:18) to Heavenly Father for guidance and reassurance. I'm so glad I read that tonight. It's one of those, "I knows" but I wasn't doing it well enough. I will try harder this week for more guidance in many things.

In closing I want to say I love Michael who is a WONDERFUL listener. He is not the type of husband to just take your side. We disagree a lot in fact but we always come to a united front after we discuss the matter. He patiently listened to my concerns on this subject as they arose and has given me very sound advice and encouragement (reprimanding when needed) and I'm grateful to him for that. I love you honey. To Evan, among other things, you are so funny and extra sweet and oh so smart. I'm so glad someone over heard you lean over to me in Sacrament today and say "mommy... I love you" and it gave us both a smile and calmed mommies troubled heart. Cora Grace, among other things: even though you fool people with your dimpled chubby cheeks, blond curls and blue eyes because we know the real rascal that you are, we love you so much for your sweetness and sensitivity towards others (even if it was you that pushed them down!), mostly your infectious hearty laugh. Mike and I are again, so lucky to have you both and blessed to be the ones to struggle to raise you in these last days to be righteous children of God. We are trying our best and learning new ways every day, Please forgive us for leaving some things out along the way.

Families are Forever. xoxo Lila/Mommy

** addendum: I want to clarify that I think the Primary are doing their job well, it just feels rotten as the parent to see and hear these things, that's what is stressful. I have been Ward Primary president twice and Stake Primary President. I know all too well, how these things unfold but that they also work out and have every confidence that this is hopefully an adjusting faze for Evan. He's young, he'll learn It's only March for goodness sakes. He's been there like 4 for 5 Sundays with illness and being out of town. Also Day care: one of the reasons, I think the teacher in question doesn't get along with Evan is he is one of the few, if not the only child in the  15+ class that is part time. Not only is he part time, he comes on Thursday. Every child that starts Monday gets their weekend jitters out and by Wednesday, they are firmly in a routine. I'm sure the MOST energetic child coming in on Thursday seems EVEN MORE energetic when he interrupts the now established routine. If that is the case, I truly feel for them but it's no excuse to attempt to 'diagnose' children you have no business assessing when you have no training to do so. Hopefully that's it. ;)

Father-Son Date

I'm behind... WAY behind... TOO behind but here we go.

Today was a busy day. It was my day off, normally hallowed ground for family time in my world. Our area had a Regional Relief Society Conference featuring Sister Allred of the General Relief Society Presidency in Madison TN (hour+ drive that felt like 20min in our packed van of fun women). The meeting was really great, the company was equally uplifting and I even got to see a few old friends I wasn't expecting to bump into. But that's not the point so I'll move on. Mike graciously encouraged me to go so I left the babies with him till I got back at 230p. THEN I had to rush home to get Cora Grace ready for a friend, Abigail's 2nd birthday party at 3p. While I would be gone I had encouraged Mike to think about taking Evan somewhere, just the two of them since that NEVER happens that we are apart like that. He reeeeeeaaaallllly wanted to do some 'spring cleaning' he had started this morning but I 'admonished' him to please take an hour break to take Evan to a playground and dinner.

A little back story, we had some terrible storms come through all of Tennessee (and surrounding states) on Friday afternoon and early evening. We needed to run some errands so as soon as we felt safe, we took off, planning to get the kids a burger or something. Evan saw "Old McDonalds" and begged to stop there. When we tried to, they told us they couldn't take orders for 30minutes (assumably from the storms knocking out power? we had no damage in our area thankfully, so I don't know what happened?). So we tried to explain to an expecting "old mcdonalds hamburger" 3 year old, it was 'broken right now' for him to try to understand-hopefully avoiding a melt down. :) Anyway, we left and got a burger for them elsewhere and he was fine. Today however, in Mike's Daddy time and after visiting a couple playgrounds with Evan, this was the continuation of that scenario:

Evan asked Mike, "is Old McDonalds still broken? Is it 'fixed' now?" and "Did somebody charge it?"

Anytime in our home something is 'broken', it means it needs new batteries or we need the cord to charge his beloved Spooka. So I guess he thought, someone might have plugged it in to juice it up. :)

He got to go INSIDE Old McDonalds (maybe his 3rd time, if that), sitting by the window the drive thru people pass (they waved to everybody. cute!), so he was thrilled but the best part was after he ate his kids meal, Daddy got them an Ice Cream sundae to share. :) Mike said he LOVED it so much, he had to ask him to slow down but that at some point, could tell, Evan was getting brain freeze cause he started shivering. Mike asked him if he was cold, Evan said "Yeah... I want to cuddle with you." Awwwwe! I just love that little guy (the big guy too). I'm so thankful Daddy took time to go out with just Evan, I'd like to do that more regularly now that Evan really understands where he wants to go etc. I can't wait for a Mommy-Son Date report. :) The End.

Tales from the Potty.

Here's the big boy of the house! Evan is enjoying his reward for.... going POOP in the potty! Any home of potty trainers knows of this significance and JOY. :) Tonight Evan (who was wearing underwear all day successfully) was supposed to be going to bed at 8p. At 7:58p, he runs from the couch to the bathroom. We assumed it was to stall bedtime only... he was trying to poop! It was glorious. We jumped and shouted and cheered. We didn't care if we woke up Cora Grace (it did but she went right back down). It was hilarious and is hilarious that I'm talking about it but, it is important in our household. Cora will sit on the little potty every time anyone sits on the toilet. Hopefully she starts doing something in it one of these days, then no more diapers... ahh (well, until I convince Mike of #3).

Evan, we are so proud of you for earning the 'giant lollipop' we bought you in JULY, anticipating this day. Keep up the good work buddy. :)

Funnies

Evan is at the stage of constantly asking questions about: what is that? are you talking to me mommy? where? can i have that? where are you going? can i come too? can i go outside? where is smokey? can i call grandma putsie? is cora asleep? do i have to go to sleep now? etc etc etc.

Desperate times call for desperate measures so, understandably I've resorted to being vague and sarcastic in my answers. That's what you're supposed to do right? ;) Yesterday, he asked me multiple times what my York peppermint patties was that I ate that afternoon. I answered "Your Momma". :) he he he? Anyway as the day turned to night, I found myself snacking again on (one of my very favorite treats) a peppermint pattie and again the questioning started.

"what is that? what is that? what is that?" ( i ignored him. i admit it)
"Mommy, may I please have some of your momma?"
Bah! ha ha ha ha  ha ha ha ha ha! worth it. :)
You know I gave him some btw. You just can't resist that, even though the kid needs no sweets. Especially at bed time. Oh well, he earned it! :)

This isn't 'funny' but, now that we leave Evan's door open, he wakes us up in the mornings by coming to "Here I am! Can I cuddle with you?". That is so sweet. THIS morning he came in after fooling around a little in the family room then was by my bed and he started to sing to me! Is that adorable or what!? He sang me two songs even. One I'm sure was ABC's, the other may have been rock a bye baby or likely, London Bridge (he busted out with that at Target yesterday and put a huge smile on the ear shot shoppers faces... and mine) or something. Either way, he's a heart melter that one is. I'm so lucky to get to finally be a mommy. These are the moments I dreamed about and hoped for the most. Though I couldn't imagine my son singing me awake! :) Blessed to be alive.

Funnies

Lately Evan has been 'a little' contrary. He says "NO" when I ask him to do something.... I just put him to bed since he didn't take a nap today. After not much protest, and reading him a few books, we were set for an uneventful departure from his room. On my way out, I said 

"now, please go right to sleep". He quickly retorted "no, left."

 :)

Earlier tonight we were at Dollar General. I turned down an isle that had a really tall man on it. Evan said, "Whoa, that's a GIANT daddy, mommy. That daddy is Giant." 

I hope if he heard him, he was smirking inside. :)

Sad to report that Evan has tried to or succeeded in, biting 3 people in a weeks time (he's never attempted this before). First at church, then tried to bite me then his new teacher at school. The bookends are brand new for him and I suspect is what got him so riled up and trying something new himself. ANYWAY, we've had lots of talks about it and that it's very naughty. I have stopped play biting both kids (it's killing me). So... after one of our first talks, I told Evan, we do not bite people, it is very naughty. He volunteered:

"we bite food, not people." ha ha ha ha. great.

Jesus wants Evan for a Sunbeam!

Jesus wants me for a Sun BEAM

to shine for Him each day.

In every way try to please HIM

at home, at school, at play.

A Sun BEAM

a Sun BEAM

Jesus wants me for a Sun BEAM

A Sun BEAM

A Sun BEAM,

I'll be a Sun BEAM for Him.

 :)

Can you believe it? Do you know what this means? My BABY is getting too old. :( I really do believe it but I don't want to. On the other hand, I'm looking forward to him growing up of course. I'm just in sort of denial about Evan being a Sunbeam and in Primary now at church. :/ Doesn't he look so big sitting there? I checked on him during 'Sharing Time' where the kids were singing "Once there was a Snow Man". Evan was on his feet, jumping as usual, and watching my friend Stacey direct the music. He was copying her hand movements with giant smile on his face while he bounce, bounce, bounced. :) Warms a mommies heart. Later I checked on him in his new class with Sharelle as his teacher. She's babysat him before and likes him so I thought she would like him. We'll see. He's not the sit down the whole time kind of kid, it may be a test for her till he learns to do what everyone else is doing. Luckily he's had a lot of practice in day care. Primary will be great for him cause his bestest friend ever, Hayden is now in the CTR 4 class so he see's him and his other friend Dallin for that section of time. Lucky guy. I'll wait for a report that he keeps getting up to hug and play with them. ;) Lastly, this years Primary theme is "Choose The Right" so all the kids got CTR rings. That was really brave to give to my cray 3 year old but he loves it and didn't want to take it off for bed. I'll try to keep it safe for him to wear every Sunday because it is very important to him. I will also try to take a special picture of him wearing it since as I type, I realize I haven't done that. Bad mommy! Anyway...

Dear Evan,

Mommy and Daddy are so proud of you for growing up into such a nice young man. We love when you sing to us, say please, thank you and show patience, even though you are only 3. You are a good example to us when you show us and Cora Grace, how to be reverent at church by sitting still, being quiet and folding your arms. It is very exciting that you are in the Sunbeam class and in Primary now. You will get to learn all about Jesus and Heavenly Father's love for us and how you can be more like them. You are so lucky to have a smart teacher and great leaders in Primary so we hope you love it. We love you and can't wait to hear about all that you are learning.

Love, Mommy and Daddy

Next year, his feet will probably touch the ground. :/. Sitting on his row with a few of his classmates. There are about 6-8 kids in his class I believe. Including Annabelle who was Evans Pebbles to his Bam Bam for Halloween a couple Halloweens ago.

Can you stand it? He's sitting there all sweet (this is before all the bouncing) and listening intently to the welcome song for visitors.

Amanda is the current Primary president and is introducing each of the new class of Sunbeams. I wasn't quite fast enough to get this without it blurring. oops. :) Do you see his red bulging eyes? Yes, it's because it's NAP time, 1pm for church. "Ay caramba!" as Bart Simpson would say. That's all I have to say about that. But if you see me with patches with baldness come Monday's, know it's because church is at 1pm this year (again... nap time.) and I have two children between 19mo-3 years that need some sleep at that time. I am however devising a plan to wake them up early at maybe 730a (they don't get up before 830) so I can at least convince CG for a 1030 or 11am nap. Wish me luck.

After church I got a sweet text from my brother Bennett who's son Luke is a month older than Evan. (They are in California). He asked how Evan's first day as a Sunbeam was. Awe. It was so nice that he thought about us. With 4 young kids, I'm glad he has time to know anyone else exists. I had completely forgot that I had 3 nephews start Sunbeams today too! I was actually happy to hear that he said Luke also had a hard time sitting the whole time of sharing and singing time. It confirms my son is a normal boy as I suspect. lol. I texted Jesse and Jenalyn to see how it was for them. Lucky Jenalyn got to sub for Liams class so she got to see it all. He's 9 mo older than Evan so he's way more mature but still 3 of course. Lucky for the permanent teacher to have varying levels of maturity in the class. Evan's energy may be a balance to  Liams type of reverence. lol. ;) Anyway, it's fun to have cousins the same age, having milestones together (if I only could remember this in advance). They will share so many as the years go by. Yay!

Evan: 3 years - 20 questions

Yet another idea from Pintrest. If I remember to do it, I'll ask the same questions every year around his birthday and see how they change. There's no point in asking them before they are 3. ;). As you see, he didn't want to answer them all.

Evan: 3 years - 20 questions. Sunday November 6, 2011

                        

                      
1. What is your favorite color? YELLOW… AND GREEN (LOOKS AROUND THE ROOM) AND BLACK AND YELLOW AND RED.
2. What is your favorite toy? LOOKS AROUND FOR AN IDEA UMM…(I SUGGEST THE ‘TUMMY’ DOLL IN THE ROOM THEN THOMAS) TUMMY… AND THOMAS. (WHAT A SURPRISE)
3. What is your favorite fruit? GREEN
4. What is your favorite tv show? "PENQUINS" (HAPPY FEET), YO GABBA GABBA
5. What is your favorite thing to eat for lunch?
6. What is your favorite outfit? PAJAMA’S.
7. What is your favorite game? NO
8. What is your favorite snack? BANANA CHIPS
9. What is your favorite animal? PENGUINS
10. What is your favorite song? LONDON BRIDGES, HEAD SHOULDERS KNEES AND TOES
11. What is your favorite book? GOODNIGHT MOON
12. Who is your best friend? CORA AND EVAN AND MOMMY AND DADDY, AND CORA AND EVAN AND MICHAEL AND LILA AND EVAN.
13. What is your favorite cereal? APPLE JACKS
14. What is your favorite thing to do outside? PLAY IN THE SAND.
15. What is your favorite drink? HOT OVALTINE
16. What is your favorite holiday?
17. What do you like to take to bed with you at night? LITTLE BLANKIE, SPOTS, BIG KISS (PINK HIPPO OF CORA’S)
18. What is your favorite thing to eat for breakfast? CEREAL AND APPLE JACKS (HE NEVER GETS COLD CEREAL FOR BFAST AND HAS HAD APPLE JACKS 3 TIMES IN HIS LIFE AT THIS POINT. THEY MUST HAVE REALLY ROCKED HIS WORLD. LOL)
19. What do you want for dinner on your birthday?
20. What do you want to be when you grow up? DON’T WANT TO GROW. NO. YEAH.

Why we're thankful for you

Another self indulgent journal entry from mommy. There are of course many thankful moments but this happened tonight. After a long day at 'school', you and your sister came home with daddy, made time to turn the front room into a tornado in 2 seconds flat - including you stripping your clothes off before jumping into pajamas while daddy made you yummy yummy spaghetti-o's. You and poor snotty nosed cg were enjoying apple sauce by the time I walked in the door and both cheerfully greeted me. Ahhh :). You both got baths and first put Cora down. I hadn't realized the time and was distracted with putting Cora down and daddy making he and I some dinner when I came back to the front room to you "buzzing". You have been making the craziest noise recently, kind of like a horse baying or something. Anyway, you do it a lot (and have taught your sister to do it when you're acting up or bored in the car) and when you do, it's over and over... and over. I didn't even look to see if it was 8 yet because I knew your 'tell', it was time for bed regardless. You were sitting on the couch after having wrapped yourself in "mommy's big blankie" and sucking on your finger, intermittently you were bleating. lol. I told you it was time for bed and when you put the blankie down from your face, you had 4 baby spoons in your hand that you have recently become attached to. lol. After I laughed, I told you to take them with you to bed (to avoid the eminent argument if I took them away) with a stern warning that I would take them away if  you talk or sing after you get into bed. You repeated what I said and committed to follow the instructions and... you did it! You fell immediately asleep :(. As your mom, I'm secretly sad you didn't talk or sing before bed but it keeps you up soooooo late and you need your sleep. I admit, I hoped you would disobey and sing "head shoulders knees and toes or London bridge" or talk to yourself out loud about your day. You are very precious. Since I missed an opportunity to come in to scold you, (lol) I instead snuck in your room in hopes to find you still holding your spoons. I brought my camera just in case and although you weren't holding them in your hand anymore, I found 3 of them near your feet. Your cute little feet and your sweet little toes that daddy played 'little piggies' with yesterday to entertain you and your sister while I got diagnosed with strep throat :(. I love you, We love you. Keep being such a precious growing boy. xoxoxoxox - Mommy (and Daddy)

Birthday Boy

another idea from Pintrest :)

Our little stud muffin. :)

Happy 3rd Birthday to our little Monster

And we wouldn't want it any other way. :) Evan, at 3 you are very sweet actually. You have become more sensitive to others feelings and  now consider consequences to poor choices. That is a relief to us because you were a very rambuncious 19month old- 2 3/4 year old!! In the last few months you are more calm (not all the way, let's not get carried away) from your regular 2 year old self. You are trying new ways to get our attention. You say funny things, you copy everything Cora says so I'll say it's cute, you ask almost every night at bed time if you can "go 'out there' (living room) and sit on the couch for a minute" cause you just can't stand to miss a thing or better yet be away from your parents! :) he he he. You are more kind to Cora Grace every day and tolerate her adoration of you. You are beautiful and we cannot wait to hear what you do or say next. I love that you want to "count to twenTy" (yes extra pronunciation of the 't') but really you keep going up to 40 but I have to tell you '40', then 50, 60, 70, 80 & 90 and you really understand how to count up all the numbers, all you need is the beginning. We are very impressed with your mind and hope we will encourage you well throughout your life so you can reach your full potential.

favorite color: green... still

you know your eye color and cg's, daddy's and mommy's (and mommies are hazel, that's hard to say or remember for goodness sakes)

you have memorized our birthday's, phone number and address

every morning when you see us, before good morning, you excited question "can i have gummy bears and ovaltine!?" (gummies are vitamins)

your prayers are amazing and daddy loves them cause they are short, to the point and aren't the screen plays mommy sometimes prays about (oops!).

you love 'mommies big blankie' when you are tired, cold, wet or sad

you must sleep with 'little blankie', 'giant blankie', 'spots' (stuffed dog from ikea), 'big kiss' cora's pink hippo from grandma jennie i think and your little night lights.

you tattle on Cora Grace all the time. :/ hmmm... we'll see about that.

you ALWAYS ask to go 'straight' when we are leaving our driveway or you want to go 'left' so we can drive down the culdesac. Once you get your fill of that, it's off to try to persuade me to take you to your friend Hayden's house, down the street... and Logen and Liz and Daddy Hayden. LOL. :) (at least you stopped calling him just "Daddy". lol)

You are so excited to turn 3. Before bed last night I showed you your cupcakes for your class tomorrow and you said, "CUPCAKES. I'm SOOO excited."

you are such a beautiful gift and love our our life. xoxoxo

"All the better to EAT you with!"

and lastly, let us not forget our model....

:D ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha!

First of all, I am so excited that I actually MADE these costumes!! With a sewing machine... and my two hands... and I even LINED CG's cape AND bonnet. Man I'm cool. :) I am so glad I did it and feel a great sense of accomplishment. I will blog even more about it later, including how I made their costumes. (hint: go to Martha Stewart's site) I had the best time doing it and to made it better, the kids really liked their costumes and better yet, were GREAT for me in the photo shoot in the back yard forest. (I only raised my voice once when CG dropped some of her 'apples' on the forest floor than tried to EAT them!! ugg!!! grossssssss). I would like to take this time to thank Frankenstein for stepping up to be my mannequin when I needed him most in the wee hours of my seamstressing. You're my dog, Yo. xoxo :)

Toddler Prayers and other such things

Evan has taken the initiative to say our family prayers lately. When we have our family prayers at night Mike is usually still at work so he hears my prayers all the time. I admit, I can be repetitive in my prayer beginnings but I promise, I really mean it so I say it every time almost, then the body of the prayer changes to new things I'm thankful for and blessing's I'm seeking. Evan will begin with the same 2 sentences now. :) I wish I had a better memory and gave myself more time to document the other things he's prayed for lately but here was tonight's bed time prayer (he also blessed our food this afternoon naming the carrots, corn, 'dip it'/ketsup and macaroni. he wasn't too thankful for the other veggies or his fish sticks I guess, ha ha ha):
I got him started with "Dear Heavenly Father"....

Evan: "Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for this day. Thank you for our blessing... Thank you for Pizza and Ranch Dressing. In the Name of Jesus Christ, Amen."

We did not have pizza today or in the last week or two, unless Mike gave them some Saturday but that was the last time he would have had it. It is very curious what goes on in these little minds.

Right now, when Evan gets punished in Time Out, he has to tell me why he was in T.O. after he is freed from doing his time. It totally cracks us up that when he comes over, you say "Why were you in Time Out" but he is mimicking you AS you say it. Next, he cannot remember WHY he's in t.o., hilarious in itself but then, he says, "Because...." (waiting for you to give him a hint, he searches your eyes very innocently until you help him out. which he continues to mimic your every word...)... "you, hit Cora Grace... and that is very naughty. Tell me you are sorry, 'I'm sorry' (hugs and kisses me) and tell Cora Grace you are sorry and give her a hug." EVERY word of the parentheses section is repeated right after you say it. It is beyond hilarious. I've tried videoing it before but he just gets distracted by the phone filming him. :/ bummer!

Yesterday I was trying to decide if I should have a birthday party for him this year or just have cake etc with our family. I asked him if he had a party, who would he want to have over. Not surprised, he said, "Hayden! and Logen, and Liz.... and Daddy Hayden." lol he doesn't remember H's daddy's name and last time he talked about him, he just called him "Daddy" so "Daddy H" is an improvement. :)

Today we spent a little time at our friend Stacey's. While at her house, Evan pointed out that her pie shaped coffee table was "a piece of pizza". :) We both laughed.

In an effort to avoid Nap Time on Monday, Evan begged to call Daddy so we did. It back fired on him cause Daddy backed me up and told Evan it was nap time. Well, in another of Evan's new 'things' Daddy turning him down from obeying Nap time didn't deter him from trying to avoid his bed prison time so he next begged to talk to Grandma Putsie. (testing authority around him till he gets his way) She is in California, 2 hours behind in time zones but she has talked to him on the phone before and he apparently thinks she will be allies with him. Again, disappointment when she wasn't there but he did get to leave 2 messages so maybe he thinks he got his way. I got nothing, he didn't sleep. No one won that day. :/.

Sunday night Evan would NOT go to sleep. Even though he went to bed at 8pm and seemed extremely sleepy, he was still up and full on talking at 1030pm. I went in to punish him but he was Johnny on the spot, asking if he could come out and "sit with you for a minute on the couch?" How do you say no to that? I know I should and could but I didn't say no, I told him he could sit on the couch by me for 5 minutes. When that time was nearing an end, he asked if he could get down and play, I said, "no you may not, it's time for bed again." Looking now at Mike without skipping a beat, he said "Daddy, can I get down and play for a minute?" (everything's for 'a minute'. mommy says that a lot). DENIED! but very entertaining.

Lastly, sometime in the last few 7 days/week, we have let Evan start sleeping with a flashlight. We loved it because for 2 nights he went immediately asleep for the excitement to play with the flashlight. We went in to check on him and the flashlight was still on, being hugged by a toddler and lighting up the wall behind his head. Well... on this one night (maybe even Sunday), I had threatened him that if he wasn't quiet, I would take his flashlight as a punishment. He started talking again so I went in and took it. He was quiet a little while before you heard some soft pleading that "I'll be good, can I have my flashlight... pleeeeeaaase?" Ok, I gave in (again!) and told him I'd give him another try and gave it back, said goodnight and shut the door. Mike and I were watching a show together and maybe 30min of near silence had passed when all the sudden, Evan was yelling like a banshee, top of his lungs and then we heard his fists hit the door multiple times. It took a minute for the shock to wear off so I could pay attention to what he was yelling at us. "Give me my flashlight! You took my flashlight! Gimme it!" Apparently he maybe fell asleep for a minute and forgot we gave it back and was now accusing his innocent parents of stealing. I cleared it all up and found his flashlight of which he apologized and repeated verbatim what I said to him. :)

Father - Son Sleepover" Party"

Evan was still awake and talking to himself at 1030pm (bedtime was 8pm) tonight. What else is a parent to do but after scolding him so many times we were loosing our voices... but to get him up and let him go in our bedroom to watch sports with daddy while mommy watches Dancing With the Stars in the family room in peace! :) After about 10 minutes of 'peace', I get a picture text from Mike (13 feet away). Apparently Evan kept playing with my head bands and hair clips by the bed and told daddy to wear some too. :) It is perfect. Evan is lucky to have a daddy who doesn't mind wearing women's accessories! lol. :)

(clarification on cg's mysterious bumpy skin. she was given a clean bill of health today from our Pediatrician. saturday morning i noticed she had a grouping of zit/blackhead like bumps clustered on her right knee and later on her left ankle. i was concerned it could be staph or something but it didn't itch and she didn't have a fever. after the dr. today we learned it was nothing contagious nor is there really any medicine for it (boo!). because it's a contact dermititus, there's nothing really to do but keep it cleaned and maybe cortizone cream could help. i believe she got it from playing on the playground at our local elementary school on saturday morning. i hear that is something we have to 'look forward' to once they start school. 'can't wait'. now she has allergies or a cold or something and her nose has been running down to the floor for 2 days. poor thing but she'll make it. thank you for your concern, sorry to worry anyone)

Funnies

Today we had to take CG to the doctor to see what some bumps she has on her knees are (contact dermatitis? from letting her - who has eczema - play on an elementary school jungle gym on Saturday). Annnnyway, Evan had was very excited to see Dr. Coleman as well, even asking her "can I stay here with you?" She is such a good sport and invited him to partake of a sticker instead.

Dr. Coleman: "Evan, do you want a sticker?"
Evan: "Yes!"
Dr. Coleman: "Ok, which one, here is a Hot Wheels one..."
Evan: "(inaudible)"
Dr. Coleman: "Do you want a Hot Wheels sticker?"
Evan: "No, I want Cold Wheels one."

ha ha ha hah ah a hah ha hah ah ahahhaha ha ha hah ah ... That made my day.