Monday, December 17, 2007

Mirage???




Nope, it was as close to the real deal as Tampa kids get. It is hard to imagine snow on an 80 degree day, but the kids loved it. As a holiday celebration our homeschool group went ice-skating and it included "snow play"....I'd call it slush play, or left over zamboni scrappings play, but the kids thought it was the perfect snow. They climbed, slid, threw snowballs, made snowmen, got wet, got cold (as cold as one can get when it is 80 degrees outside). It was fun to watch them play, and to see little and big kids alike enjoy a novelty not many had seen around these parts.

Reason for the season


Sarah captured the reason for the season for a coloring contest at our church....and our budding artist won!

St. Lucy's Feast Day


St. Lucy's feast day is such a fun celebration. I encourage you to read about it to understand the symbolism. According to the Swedish tradition, the eldest daughter awakens early to make breakfast for her family, usually a sweet roll or bread. Sarah just loved to do this....she awoke extra early and had to wait a bit! She wore the traditional white gown, with red sash (a scarf), but we opted against a crown of candles atop her head...if you know Sarah, you will understand why. It was a fun way to start a feast day where we then talked about the life of St. Lucy at breakfast.

More Advent Ideas

Here is a summary of the remainder of advent ideas/projects that we currently have under way....

We have a Jesse Tree which involves a dead tree branch and 24 homemade ornaments symbolizing the lineage of Jesus. My husband talked me out of making crafty ornaments symbolizing the people or events for the tree. Instead he suggested I let the kids draw the pictures....and I'm really glad I did. It was a fun project for them that involved some hands-on-learning. While it took a minute to get over the "it doesn't look the way I would have done it" mentality, they came out really cute. It will be fun over the years to remember their cute stick figure drawings. (I had them laminated, in order to make sure they'll be around years from now). For more info on a Jesse Tree or to get the scripture verses to read when hanging the ornaments daily see
http://www.catholicculture.org/liturgicalyear/activities/view.cfm?id=545&repos=3&subrepos=1&searchid=139777

We also have a crib for baby Jesus that I bought online last year. Whenever the kids do a good deed, they can grab a piece of "hay" (ie yellow construction paper) and write the deed on it. They then put the "hay" in the manger so that on Christmas baby Jesus will have somewhere soft to lay his head. See a sample
http://www.catholiccompany.com/product_detail.cfm?ID=3724&category=1272

We also celebrated St. Lucy's feast day in style, but that is a post all its own.

Holiday Travels

We will be traveling to Cleveland this Christmas by way of Charleston. The kids are so excited. I discovered the "excitement" when I walked into their rooms and witnessed them packing.....on Monday....for a Saturday departure. Hangers everywhere, many small, stuffed bags, mismatched clothes, books, toys....oh the excitment!

Saturday, December 15, 2007

The "Change"

To most people, the change probably means moods swings, and hot flashes, but not to the mother of a toddler. To her, the prospect is much more stressful. The change happens when one morning you arise and realize your cute, snuggly, obedient, somewhat calm toddler has.....changed into something.....else. Like a defiant, stubborn, willful, driven, (did I mention stubborn) toddler. As of 3 days ago, we are undergoing the change in our house.

Looking on the start of this event for the third time, I can smile. Yes, life is in some ways harder these days because most things need to be done "myself". And clothes need changing mid-day, for no reason. And toothbrushing is painful....(for the toddler who will now be sat upon by mom, who will crank open his clenched jaws....there will be NO cavities), time-outs which did not exist before now happen daily....they happen for bodily harm inflicted on siblings, which never really happened before either.....but....

I now know these days that feel long, are really rather short. Whether it happens at 2, 3, or 4, it happens. And after a while, your sweet child returns, only with new adventures, abilities, and skills. Months from now sweet Sean will return....and by then he'll be pooping on the potty!!

This post can serve as the warning to all the relatives we will see on our Christmas adventure!

Wednesday, December 12, 2007

Our Lady of Guadalupe


I love celebrating feast days with the kids. It is such a fun way to pass on items of our faith in a special way. These are new traditions we are making, and I hope they evolve over the years into traditions the kids keep forever.

Today is the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. We will read http://www.tomie.com/books/spotlight_on_guadalupe.html and watch http://www.amazon.com/Juan-Diego-Messenger-Of-Guadalupe/dp/B000A0GXPG. We started the day with Mass where we celebrated the apparition of Mary to St. Juan Diego in Mexico nearly 500 years ago. The story is amazing and the kids love the book. We will then make a version of these crafts http://www.illuminatedink.com/products/4/12/95/. And for dinner.....why Mexican food of course. What else but a fiesta on December 12th?

My only other recommendation is to check out what festivities your local parish may have. Our parish has a large latino population and this feast day is so special to them. We missed the event on Sunday, but they had a special procession, Mass, and Mexican feast. The girls attend in native dress, while all the little boys were dressed as Juan Diego. It will be on the calendar for us next year.

St. Nicholas Day

Unfortunately, I spent this day laying on the couch feeling miserable. Many of my plans were left incomplete this year due to the "yucks". But I hope to do many of them next year. Luckily for me, all the plans you could want can be found here http://www.stnicholascenter.org/Brix?pageID=23 . There are books to read, crafts to make, cookies to bake, crossword puzzles, plays, and things to discuss. We did the crossword puzzle, a coloring sheet, and read a few of the books. By the end of the day, my kids had made the "breakthrough" discovery that Santa is a representation of St. Nick. And St. Nick was a giving, generous bishop who lived a long time ago and helped people. And it is with that spirit that we give gifts on St. Nicholas Day and Christmas Day......mission accomplished. Not bad from the couch!

Monday, December 10, 2007

Men vs. Women

One way to appreciate the difference is to admire the items in the cart when Christmas shopping.

Wife: "This stuff is all sport related? Can't you think of anything else?"

Later on when looking over a cute learning game composed of cookies and a cookie jar to help learn number counting (I picked this one)......

Husband: "So there are cookies and a jar....? What does it do?????"

Yes we are so different, but it makes for laughs at the store, and it is a good exercise in compromise.

Tuesday, December 4, 2007

Advent Reading

I intend to put some personal notes on this blog, for no other reason than if they are here, then they are somewhere more reliable than a scrunched up napkin or back of a receipt like usual. Maybe, I will feel a bit more organized. This month is rather busy with many things, but most on my mind are advent activities. (Because my husband moved and unpacked us so quickly, I am making it to my projects!)

Anyhow, we are reading many books these days, and it is wonderful. My favorite children's author is Tomie dePaola, and lucky for me he has many wonderful advent and Christmas books. Here is the list we are reading this month. The best part is activities you can create to go along with the stories. Actually, I don't do much creating....I "borrow" others' ideas!

Merry Christmas Strega Nona
Country Angel Christmas
Our Lady of Guadalaupe
The Legend of the Pointsettia
The Clown of God
Jingle, the Christmas Clown
Mary, the Mother of Jesus
Story of the three wise kings
The Legend of old Befana
Francis, Poor Man of Assisi
Hark Sampler
The Night of Los Posadas

I can't say enough about the quiet, cuddly time we have reading and discussing the stories.

The best advent book I have is Jotham's Journey by Arnold Ytreeide. I got it last year, but I think it is out of print now and quite pricey on Amazon. However, it is wonderful. It follows a shepherd boy on his month of trials and somehow he finds his way into a stable in Bethlehem on Christmas Eve. It is a wonderful book on preparing for Christmas and anticipating the birth of the Savior. We read one chapter an evening, in a dimly lit room. Before the chapter begins, there is an Old Testament passage (usually Isaiah) that foreshadows the coming of Christ. It just so happens that most of these are included in Handel's The Messiah, so we listen to the appropriate song, if we can. Then when the chapter is over, we process to bed with candles singing Come, O Come Emmanuel. (The kids love the candle part). Anyhow try and get the book if you can. Our kids love the adventure story, and it blesses our family to focus on the real meaning of Christmas for the whole month!

I don't have any good prayer ideas for the advent wreath at dinner. We some Old Testament verses if we can.

I have used many ideas from this wonderful woman's blog.....check hers out for more ideas.
http://ebeth.typepad.com/reallearning/

More on St. Nicholas Day tomorrow!

Hot stuff

Have you ever seen 94 candles on a birthday cake? It is amazing. The smoke produced after they are blown out is even more remarkable. However, the best part of the event was the joy on Ms. Katie's face as she and 4 kids blew out the candles. The kids loved the party. The neighbors loved the party. And the birthday girl loved the party....all 94 years of her. She is hot stuff, as evidenced by a few blisters from lighting the cake. Luke is preparing for a return to the neighborhood in 6 years for a 100 year bash. Ms. Katie questioned the likelihood, but I don't. I have many pictures, but I'm too party-pooped to post.

Monday, December 3, 2007

Life is a party



Here was today's fun activity...a tea party with friends. As you can see there were yummy treats and most of the party was dressed to celebrate (7 year old boys don't dress for tea). There was even dancing. Tomorrow we have a surprise birthday party for our 94 year old neighbor. Life on this block is a blast!

Sunday, December 2, 2007

A month late and a dollar short.....



Or something like that... Here are pictures from last month. One is the kids with Grammy and Grampy when they were in town to babysit. The other is of their All Saint's Day festival. We had St. Stephen (Luke loved the blood), St. John the Baptist, and St. Therese the Little Flower.

Movin' on up




Here is the new house and some of the highlights. I didn't know "Mayberry" still existed, but I'm convinced I live there now. We love the house due to the layout, spaciousness, and lack of smell and rats and things like that. We also are surrounded by the best neighbors. They fix kid bikes. They explain the workings of sprinkler systems. They plant gardens (with children). They bring goodies for the kids. And they smile and wave, all the time. What a blessing. By the way, the kids love to do laundry. And watch the washing machine work...for quite a long time.

Humility at 4 am

I've been reflecting on my controlling nature over the past day. I'm pretty sure God is aware. That, and children are His way of making us humble. I gave up control for part of the night last night. The part where I was scrubbing puke off of the cream color carpet. Did I mention we had a pizza celebration last night? And as I sat there, scrubbing, I had to smile. I get it. It isn't about me. It is about me serving them. That is how God plans to make me more perfect. So I scrub, I do laundry, I get drinks (well, not drinks, more like liquid swishes), I do more laundry, I get the bucket. And I pray for the grace to serve well.

PS: Does anyone have any carpet tricks?

The long road to heaven

I am a control freak by nature. I love order, cleanliness, organization, and to-do lists. Thankfully, God in his wisdom, saw fit to give me a husband, three kids, and a dog. But sometimes the monster returns and I find myself longing for control and order.

Most unfortunately this becomes evident with regard to my kids from time to time. Like yesterday......which was a very big day for Luke, and for Patrick and I, actually. Yesterday, Luke celebrated a sacrament of the Catholic Church. He made his first reconciliation. Being the control freak that I can be, we practiced the prayers involved. We practiced the rite itself. We studied why we do this as Catholics. We studied our consciences. We studied, we discussed, we read. And all of these things are needed. But the list, well, that was a bit too "controlling". What list? Well, I encouraged Luke to take a written list into confession. I am a list maker. I have a poor memory. But, looking back on it, I wanted some sense of control over Luke's interaction with God. (How pathetic). I wanted some assurance that mistakes wouldn't be made, things wouldn't be forgotten. In addition, I didn't want to let go. I didn't want to go of my little boy, who is now seven years old. My little boy that I used to bathe, dress, feed, sing to, and play with is now capable of doing most of those things himself. And so the list was my protection. It was a way to control the situation but also a way in which to see Luke as that little boy, not the young man he is becoming. A young man who is learning his faith, who knows much of his faith, who can question and think and discuss, and most importantly a child who genuinely loves God.

After reflecting for a day, I realize that my controlling nature gets the best of me....a lot. All we can do is what we are already doing. (granted we can work on implementation and value here) We try our best to live the faith. We read, discuss, and do faith activities. We go to Mass. We celebrate the sacraments. We pray. We try to make our family a domestic church. And then the hard part, we need to let go. We need to pray that God will finish what we haven't. We pray that God and each child will establish an everlasting relationship of love and forgiveness. And that one day we will all rejoice with the saints and angels in Heaven.

Upon leaving the confessional, Luke looked at us and smiled. "Father told me I don't need a list next time. I should just think and know my sins in my heart, " he said. A lesson for a mom as well as her son.

Commercial Failure

Our kiddos don't see much real tv. There is pbs and the occassional dvd, but the only real tv is college football every now and then. And then we are commercial crazy. That is eyes are closed, channels are changed, or kids leave the room because most commercials are inappropriate for kids (in our opinion). But a few slip by and discussion ensues. This is a recap of the Dr. Pepper commercial with the dancing football player in the end-zone drinking a soda.

Dad: "What do you think that commercial is saying or wanting you to do?"

Sarah: "Don't drink soda or you'll get fat like that man!"

We'll just stick with that in our house.

Saturday, November 24, 2007

Discipline in a new house

Mom: "Sean, you need to go have a time out in your room because you are not listening."

Sean: Crying... and wandering aimlessly about...looking all around. "Where is my room...can't find it Mama?"

Blessings of a Move

1. A wonderfully clean and organized new home.
2. A home with a fantastic floor plan and lots of space for the kiddos.
3. Friends who make Thanksgiving dinner for you.
4. Friends who watch your children so that immediately after finishing the turkey you can run out to go move boxes.
5. Friends who then drive your kids back to you and then spend 3 hours helping move the BIG furniture pieces.
6. Cleaning your old house one last time.
7. Kids who are so very adaptable. They fall asleep in a new room, in sleeping bags, amid the noise of unpacking, and they think it is fun.
8. New neighbhors on a quiet, quaint street. They still behave as I imagine neighbors did in the "good ole days".
9. New neighbors who bring you rubbermaid boxes, a dolly for moving, cut your grass, figure out why your fridge won't make ice, and help you unpack the moving truck...all inspite of being well.....quite old.
10. New neighbors who bring over a basket of apples, oranges, cokes, and gatorade.
11. A husband who moves his whole family and all their belongings in 1 day.
12. A husband who never complained and just kept on lugging "stuff", who tried to make me laugh, and who smiled at the kids when I couldn't.
13. A husband who puts away things, hangs shower curtains, and organizes the new fridge, when it was all too much for me.
14. Lastly, for the ability to see the blessings in the midst of chaos.

Saturday, November 17, 2007

A new spin on advent

I love this time of year. Thanksgiving dinner, the start of Advent. This year I had so many plans....a Jesse tree, an advent calendar, St. Nicholas day, the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, St. Lucy's feast day, a Los Posadas feast, Christmas, caroling, crafts, the Epiphany. In fact, I ordered 22 books from the library 5 weeks ago to do an advent unit study based on Tomie de Paola's wonderful books. I have crafting supplies and ideas for nearly every day of December. It was going to be such a wonderful, cuddly, time to grow in the faith with the kids. We were really going to prepare for the birth of the savior, and then came THE MOVE. I am a stressed, the kids are stressed, but we are toughing it out. I sat wondering how I can make the Jesse Tree ornaments, how long unpacking will take, what supplies/gifts I should buy now or wait on.....and then a friend gave me a thought to ponder... She observed that we will draw so close to the Holy Family as we travel this season, just like they did. As they searched for a place to stay and readied that stable as best they could...so will we. We get to LIVE advent, in a way. What a blessing friends are. They help keep us inspired and focused on what really matters. And so my challenge and prayer will be to keep my family focused on the Holy Family this season. Not in all the ways I had prepared, but in ways I had not. And if by God's grace will get settled quickly, maybe some of the activities will happen anyway. And if not, I have a list of 22 books and supplies for next year.

Westward Ho'

Or is it north...or northeast....either way the Kelty gang is packing the wagon and hitching up the horse. We will move AGAIN...the day after Thanksgiving. Why? Didn't we just move? Won't we move again in a mere 19 months? Well yes. But currently we reside in the House of Doom (thanks Dad, the name is great). And frankly, I can take it no longer. Being shocked when using kitchen appliances, having large tree branches randomly fall (on my car), and live rats in the toilet...yeah, we'll move, no worries. In four short days, we found a house, got a truck, bribed some friends, and we'll move to a new house next weekend. I'm really excited about having a nice fenced in yard, a garage, and a laundry room in the house. My hubby will have a bit farther to drive, but he is a trooper. Then again, maybe he is just scarred after killing the rat. Send prayers our way as we embark on yet another adventure. Happy Thanksgiving. As I begin to pack, I realize all I have to be thankful for....friends, family, 3 loaf pans, 5 9x13 pans......

Thursday, November 1, 2007

May the force be with you




Man of the House

My seven year old has become the man of the house on those long days when dad works really late. I discovered this as he walked out the door to play outside and said, "Call me if something really big happens, like if Sean gets hurt or you need something". I don't suppose I need to ever worry again. He's got it all under control.

Tuesday, October 30, 2007

Flushed Away

Ode to the toilet


We're down to one toilet between us.
We've plunged and we've mopped, what a mess.
We've reviewed how to "wipe".
"Get a plumber," I gripe.
But a day later the truth will be told.
By a nervous yet giggly 5 year old.
Mom, well you should be aware,
it's not toilet paper.
There is a PEAR down there.

Which is worse....the fact that there sits a pear in our toilet, or the fact that a little "nameless" girl was eating a pear while using the bathroom.

I wonder when I lost all control. And my husband wonders if pears will decompose in water (ie....he wonders if in a few days we'll have our toilet back without a call to the plumber)

Disgusting science fact #1

When you go on a lizard chase in the house....you take a risk in injury. (how did he get in???) When you corner the lizard in a messy 5 year old's bedroom it is a good excuse to clean it. And when you finally catch the lizard there may be crying. Because mom may accidentally smash the lizard with the rubbermaid box he was hiding under. The tail may be ripped from the body. The lizard will be dead. But the tail will continue to wiggle and squirm for quite some time. All the children will find this very entertaining.

Sunday, October 28, 2007

New Game

Sarah informed me she and her friends made up a new game. It is called Cops and Robbers.....I think I may have invented it myself long ago. But I didn't tell her that!

Wednesday, October 24, 2007

Star Wars (Rewritten)

In a home far, far away, the rebels grow restless. Luke Skywalker and Princess Leah (clad in the appropriate Halloween costumes and wielding a light saber and nerf gun) battle the Diaper Droid. Even 'Chewy" is in on the action as he paces waiting for food, water, or a walk. As chaos reigns in the home due to the noise and antics of the rebels, a communication is received from Darth Vader. At an unusually early hour, he races through the galaxy to battle the rebels, while his wife (I realize I am making up a character here) battles the forces of grime and dirt that have literally overtaken the entire galaxy. Upon entering Darth whisks the rebels away to investigage the outer planets (they are on a walk). And peace again enters the home. Darth did ask a few questions like: "Have they eaten only suger and caffeine all day?" NO! "Can I take a beer on the walk?" Absolutely! And then I wonder....is beer the FORCE?

How quickly they grow!

Sean just passed by. He carried a fishing pole (puzzle version), and a plastic cooler filled with plastic cuisine. He looked at me with his cream cheese covered shirt and impish grin and waved.

"I goin' to college, Mama", he advised.

Currently, college is located under an end table at the end of the couch. Luckily for me, his "semesters" last for about 10 minutes instead of months. And then the future flashes before my eyes, and I realize he will be grown-up and gone all too soon. Some days, the days seem to pass so slowly....messes to clean, meals to fix, housework to do, bottoms to wipe. However, when I stand back I cannot believe this journey of parenthood is already 7 years old. Where has the time gone? And how can I slow it down?

I take a deep breath and go to release the children who were banished to time-out for back-talking. We will start again, on this long day. Because it won't be so long after all.

Tuesday, October 23, 2007

Sweet trouble

Have you experienced the panic of not being able to find a child in the house....particularly the 2yr old child. I thought the chilren were "safely" watching a video, while I was outside attending to dog "yard cleanup" duty. Upon re-entry, I asked, "Where is Sean?" The older kids were in that television induced stupor....there wasn't an answer among them. So then I began the search.....Sarah's room amid all the "treasured" toys....Nope.....Luke's room in the baseball cards....Nope.....my room under the covers....Nope. Then I found him....in my bathroom. Eating candy. That he dug out of the bottom of my purse (for those we're out in public and you need to be quite times). His response, "I fine Mommy. Eating candy."

Monday, October 22, 2007

Love is.....

Today I discovered that love is......

Sewing Halloween and Saint Day costumes for your children. (that would mean 6 costumes!)

Patiently picking straight pins out of the carpet once your child decides the carpet makes a good pin cushion.

Suppressing the yelp when you "find" the last remaining pin in the carpet, that is now in the bottom of your foot.

Helping your child clean her room as she sobs that it is too messy to even begin.

Remaining patient when in the midst of the room cleaning you hear, "Mom I broke it and there is glass everywhere!"

Sweeping, dusting, and mopping shards of a glass picture frame from the floor, after sending the "offending son and dog" outside to play----with as much of a smile as possible.

Ignoring the wrinkly bed (mine) that was being used as a home base for both son AND DOG during an inside "ballgame".

Picking up the straight pins off of the kitchen floor after they were accidentally spilled by a child.

Sweeping and vacuuming the kitchen floor to find any stray pins.

Realizing the sewing machine somehow "broke" during the day and only mildly getting annoyed. Finding the repair shop for a quick drop off tomorrow. Saying a quick prayer that the sewing machine will be fixed shortly....there are still 3 costumes to make.

Picking up a needle and thread at 9:30 pm to see how long one can sew costumes by hand.

Friday, October 5, 2007

Bad Mom part II

A replay of yesterday... no hubby. However, today I've learned of a new game. It involves 2 kids in a bathtub full of water. It involves sliding kids and water ALL OVER the bathroom. They giggle madly and scream...."sloppy joes, sloppy joes!" If this happens to you, close the curtain to minimize water (although your floor, rug, towels will already be soaked)....and walk away.....return only when they complain the water is too cold. And refrain from making sloppy joes for dinner for a very long time!

Bad Mom part I

Desperate times call for desperate measures....or something like that. Patrick hasn't been home much this week. So last night while preparing dinner at 6:30, I was desperate for some peace, as the kids were wild and crazy. Peace can be momentarily acheived by making swords...out of sticks....and letting the kids swing away in the house. Now mind you, I was preparing the speech to give the ER doctor when we appeared with sticks in our eyes. But we made it through.

Thursday, October 4, 2007

Ballpark news

We went on a fieldtrip to the Buc's football stadium yesterday. And I learned a bit more about my children based on the questions they asked.

Luke: "Where is the pressbox?" (when we were on the field)

Luke: "So how much does this cost again, and what else do you get?" (a question asked while in the club loge section)

Sarah: "Where are the doors for when they change their clothes?" (asked in the locker room)

Sean: "Riverdogs game, ball game, hit the ball outfield, see it...see it? (he will always be a baseball fan, I'm afraid)

Slugger

Sean has many talents. I just discovered he can competently hit a golf ball with a baseball bat.....and he likes to play this game for long periods of time. He and Grammy played this game this weekend during her visit. Maybe she is at home icing her shoulder.....

Thursday, September 20, 2007

creative spark

One of the joys of parenthood is watching the children grow and develop. Each of our kids is so unique in interest, abilities, etc. We have always known that Sarah Clare is the family artist. She is constantly creating...something. This post will serve as a reminder to us that we've known this all along......when she asks to be an "art" major in college, we can look back on this with a deep breath...and then ask her if she is crazy. How will she ever make a living???


Maybe someone will pay her to: make a glitter glue project, pick a bouquet of flowers (weeds), play with her stuffed animal dog (make him bones, and a clothes line to hang his clothes on --out of ribbon, chip clips and a basket), make a light and bright creation, do puzzles, mae a musical ensemble of a guitar, cymbals, and a maraca (meaning make the actual instruments...think saran wrap, blocks, rubberbands, and paperclips), do a dance from ballet, etc. This is what she has accomplished so far today and it is only 2 pm!

Saturday, September 8, 2007

A blessed life

The big kids (dad included) were out running errands, while Sean and I had some lunch and "jammed" out to some tunes. He loves to dance! I put on a CD containing the song from our wedding (which sadly, I don't think I've listened to in about 7 years). Patrick wasn't home to dance with, so Sean and I got up and danced together. And then the tears started (I am a woman....). I am so thankful for this blessed life with which the Lord has blessed me. The words to the song fit as perfectly for a tiny son, as for a big husband. They are the answer to a prayer from up above.

Thursday, September 6, 2007

memory work

Should I worry because I just got demolished by a 5 year old and a 7 year old in a game of Memory? The kids chuckled as I repeatedly picked the same two cards on 3 consecutive turns. accidentally. I simply could not remember where cards were. In fact, after awhile, they all started to look the same. Pizza, hotdogs, dollies, butterflies......If this keeps up, I will not remember the kids' names or my address in approximately a week.

Monday, September 3, 2007

Lost in Translation

Three hours after returning home Sean says, "Thank you Mama, Nemo park. I touch water."

Now let me translate to tell you what he really means.......

Dear Mother and Father dearest,

Thank you ever so much for taking my siblings and I to the Florida Aquarium. Especially on this overcrowded Labor Day when everyone and their uncle had the same idea. I am impressed by dad's strength as he managed to hold me as I hovered over the stingray aquarium for at least 15 minutes while I decided if I was brave enough to put my hands in the water. ( I was). Thank you for holding me, chasing me, pushing me in the stroller, and most amazingly, not losing me, or Luke, or Sarah during the journey. Thank you for occassionally slowing us down enough to read some interesting facts, so that the adventure was educational as well as a speed race for completion. Thank you for the yummy grilled cheese sandwhich lunch that was ridiculously expensive. If it makes you feel better, I'll say it was the best grilled cheese EVER! The best part of the day was playing in the cool water park (which it was). While you two adults roasted in the sun, while chasing us around, we were ever so cool playing with the other 1 million kids--many of whom were unsupervised, I'm sure. Thank you for taking the time to teach me to wait my turn on the water slide, even though it required you to get soaked while I learned. Thank you for running us through the parking lot as the usual afternoon thunderstorm rolled through---we hit this thunderstorm at the perfect moment, because you were so generous to spend additional time at that same old stingray tank before leaving.

Thanks for letting me see Nemo at the aquarium, I'll remember it in my two year old brain for at least the next 3 hours. If you would have brought the camera to catch the day on film, I could have remembered it forever. But you forgot the camera, didn't you Mom. It's ok. I had fun.

Love, Sean

Wednesday, August 29, 2007

Siblings are a blessing

Siblings are such a blessing for our children. They learn to share not only toys and space but love as well. Ours generally love each other and spending time with one another. And this is how you know they realize that they are a gift.

Sarah: "You know what I wish....that when you wanted a baby, as soon as you want it God would start it growing."

Many days later....

Mom: "What do we need from the grocery store?"

Luke: "I know, it would be cool if we could go and get another kid there!"

It fills my heart to know they love each other and would like another person to add love to our home. And so we wait....not entirely patiently at times. But we talk about the will of God and God's timing. We let God know we are ready, and we realize that perhaps love will come when God knows the time to be right.

Tuesday, August 28, 2007

Hugs for Life

Mom and Sean cuddle on the couch, with the much needed ice pack for the bump on the head.

Mom: "Sean are you ok? Ready to go play?"

Sean: "No, hugs for life"

Mom: "OK, hugs for life. Sit on my lap as long as you'd like"

Sean: (grabbing my face and neck in a squeeze) "Loves you Mama"

And this is the best definition of a good day.

Sunday, August 26, 2007

Dinner Blessing

Patrick works...alot. However, he works with and for very nice people. He enjoys what he is doing and learning. So I am thankful because it could be so much worse. In fact, he is home all weekend on the weekends! But the kids miss him during the week as they don't see him very much at all. On Thursday, Patrick was home for dinner. At the conclusion of the blessing, Luke added, "and thank you God that my dad is actually home for dinner". And we were.

Wii ' ve done it!

It's 9pm do you know where the parents are.....they are having a boxing, golf, bowling and baseball playoff in front of the new game system we swore we'd never, ever buy. But you know what...it is really fun. The kids enjoy playing the games. And there will be strict time limits. It will be used as a reward for completing school. But mom and dad? Oh yeah, we will spend the next many evenings in "heated" competition. Got to go, it's my turn!

how do they do that?

Well, every good weekend needs a trip to Home Depot. We took the kids to pick up supplies for our planting session. We have new plants in the front yard and a Mary garden in the back. However, we needed some trellises for our plants, hence the trip. After looking at several and gathering supplies to make one, Sarah and I had the following conversation:

Sarah: (regarding the wood pieces) How will they get them to stick together? Will Daddy and Luke glue them or stitch them?

Mom: When men are being carpenters and using wood they use things called hammer and nails. Do you know what I'm talking about?

Sarah: Oh yeah.....

Thursday, August 23, 2007

Cyber-world

Setting: We are at the "indoor" playground at the mall because it is 95 degrees and humid everyday.

Luke says to the girl with whom he is playing tag: "What is your user name?"

And Patrick and I almost choke....a username....did he even know her real name. And I realize they are growing-up in a different era. And I am a bit sad. And I think about throwing away the webkinz...the new toy that "interfaces" with the computer, i.e. you take care of your pet in the online world from whence it came. But he did use his money, and we did say....ok. Maybe he'll just stay 7 forever????

Thursday, August 9, 2007

God loves Luke this much.....


God sends blessings everyday....and Luke just got a whopper. His birthday is tomorrow, and all he has asked for is to go to Charleston to visit his buddies. Coincidentally, the father of his buddy had a one day job in Tampa this Tuesday. His dad is a pilot. His dad flew the whole family down for the day so we could all visit while he worked. I cannot explain the surprise and joy on Luke's face as he answered the door. They caught frogs, swam, played legos. What a gift, all designed by God, for a very special boy on his 7th birthday!

DON'T take me out to the ballgame


Well, after a month of missing our Charleston Riverdogs, we headed to the Tampa Yankees minor league game. Won't do that again. The Riverdogs offered so much more than a ballgame. It was great fun for the family the whole game long. The Yankees.....it is just baseball folks. No crowd, terrible announcer, unfriendly workers, no fun between innings games....the best part of the game was the free bread we got upon leaving. It was "free bread night". Go Riverdogs!

He likes dolls, but.....

Sean loves babies. Real ones and Sarah's dolly version. Infact, for the past few days he has carried a teeny, tiny doll in his pocket and played with it during the day. Today he found the toy dinosaurs. We all watched as the triceratops "ate" the doll in 5 seconds. So much for his sensitive side!

Thursday, August 2, 2007

A box of fun


We had to take a big break from school the other day because a "treasure" arrived. It was a big box. While I struggle to provide unique and exciting experiences for the kids, the UPS man is better. The kids spent HOURS coloring the box. It is now a boat. It has sailed many times through my house, with Luke as the main motor. It also partly sunk off of a bunkbed. It was then a "cool slide", until mom found out and ruined all the fun!

Batkid



He's just too cute for his own good!

Homeschool fun involves cigarettes and beer bottle tops


I really enjoy homeschooling. I think this year will be better than last. Luke seems to love the history we are studying, and I'm learning too! Sarah is learning to read and add, and she'll happily tag along in other subjects too. In history, we are learning about archeology and ancient civilizations. One of the neat things about school at home is that kids can apply their new "knowledge" in a way that they often can't in a traditional school. Here Luke and Sarah went outside and made their own archeological dig. Just like they did in the books we read. They mearsured and marked their quadrant. The collected treasures and washed them. They recorded their findings. And this is what we learned. The "ancients" on our street drank adult beverages and smoked tobacco. Well....anyway......

A thought on Confession

This is a big year for Luke as he will celebrate 2 sacraments in the Church, First Reconcilliation and First Holy Communion. We study religion nearly everyday, say our prayers, and I try to find activities that will help the kids grow in their relationship with God. And then there are the everyday occurances that drill the lessons home.

Today, Sean picked up Luke's lego creation and smashed it on the floor, and the loud complaints soon followed. So Sean went to time-out with a discussion on not ruining other's creations. After about 30 seconds Luke looked my way and requested his brother's "release" since Luke had first taken one of Sean's blocks, which prompted the destructive fury.

Then a discussion about sharing, using words, etc. followed. Luke just looked at me and giggled.

"I feel so good for telling the truth", he said.

I had to smile and agree, and then I started to think. Luke is so lucky, as we are as well, to belong to a Church made up of Sacraments instituted by Christ. On this day, I am so thankful that sometime soon, Luke will get to go before God and confess his sins. The act of verbally admitting ones faults and wrongs and apologizing is so important. The forgiveness that his mother and brother gave on this day will never compare to the amazing forgiveness and grace that will be offered to him by God at his Confession. I only hope that the giggles of happiness he had today be followed by years of humility, grace, and fortitude gained by the Sacrament of Confession.

Tuesday, July 31, 2007

Baby or big boy?

My "all boy" two year old, who loves baseball and trains, might be having a regression. He now hates the vacuum and thunderstorms. You should see the tears. His new favorite game is "night-night with Mama". This entails us laying down immediately and cuddling and pretending to sleep. (this can happen anywhere, including a museum) This game is nice if you are tired, but a distraction if you are trying to do anything that requires standing, ie most things. Like all things, I'm sure it is a phase, and I do like the hugs!

Sunday, July 29, 2007

Thanks McDonalds

Life is full of simple pleasures. The closest one I know of is the McDonalds one mile up the road. I was thrilled to see that they have the old fashioned apple pies. (the ones that are deep fried, not baked) I know when the last time I had one was (before the one I ate an hour ago). I was in Marietta, OH. I was in the ninth grade. I was wearing blue shorts and a sweatshirt. Maybe now you see why this is significant. I love those apple pies and it has been a long time. Let me know if they sell these anywhere else in the nation if you can. Otherwise I may stay in Tampa, in this house....forever, eating apple pies!

Dads are special, moms are chopped liver

Patrick has been out town on a business trip. I've been very busy keeping the kids busy. Today on a walk Sean was very concerned at how far ahead his siblings had gotten. I noted out loud how much he loves them. Sean emphatically stated, "no!" I asked if he loved me.....to which he said, "NO!" I asked if he loved his Daddy..."oh yes!" was the reply.

Official mom of a boy

Well it has taken nearly 7 years, but I've entered the realm of "mom of crazy boys". Who would believe it was my little schnoodle Sean that did this to his mother.........How? The kid broke a window with a baseball bat. From the inside of the house! Don't ask what a bat was doing inside, but yes, at least it was plastic. Sean took that bat and "chopped" (using his word) the window. It shattered. We taped it. We called in a glass repair guy. And $125 dollars later, I am officially a mom to boys.

Questions of the Day

Here are the stumpers for me lately......

1. Luke: "Mom when do we get to break out of this family?" (Does he feel like he's in jail?)
Mom: "What do you mean Luke?"
Luke: "You know, when do we get out of this family? When are we old enough to have our
own?"

2. Luke just bought his first pack of baseball cards and admired them all day. He attempted to "play" baseball cards with Sarah. Later that day while holding my hand, Sarah looked at me and asked, "Do you think they make princess cards?"

Wednesday, July 25, 2007

You ate what????

So this is how you know they are growing. Naps get a bit longer for a few days (yeah!!!) And, they eat....alot. For instance a two year old can eat 4 big bowls of cereal for breakfast. Lunch can be a whole pb&j sandwich and grapes and a rice crispy treat. It can be eaten in silence...eating is an important job some days. Talking is done after the plate is clean on "growing days". Dinner is green beans, strawberries and pasta. Make that 2 helpings of pasta. Then a popsicle. My little one then says, "I eat Sarah's plate all gone...okay?" Yes, he then ate off his sisters plate. Then he asked for more...twice. This kid better get a day job, because he ate more then the rest of us all day long.

Wednesday, July 18, 2007

Stupid is as Stupid does

Today, I am stupid. I nearly killed myself during a mess clean-up. It involved a whole LARGE container of laundry detergent, a "quick" cleanup involving a hose (my laundry room is outside), and me electrocuting myself on the 220 dryer outlet. Note to all you readers: turn off the breaker before unplugging the cord (with the pluggy things exposed). Also, do not have wet hands, and don't stand in water. I will tell you, the movies are true. One really can't let go when one is being shocked. It is a horribly scary, surreal feeling. Your heart does skip some beats.

And the children....when you tell them you were stupid, and did something incredibly stupid, and that you could have gotten very hurt or even have died.....they will look at you wide-eyed and say....."We never say the S word Mommy!"

But stupid is as stupid does. And this stupid can't sleep due to her chronically tingly arm...so I blog.

Monday, July 16, 2007

MOSI days




We are enjoying Tampa and the new adventures a new city offers. God has blessed us with many places to explore and nice people to meet along the way. After the beach, our next adventure was this weekend. We went to MOSI which is the Museum of Science and Industry. Better than that...it has the biggest hands-on Kids Musuem in the country. They offer lots of homeschooling programs, which I intend to look into. Right now we are content to play and watch some IMAX movies. Here are some photos of the kids. It is neat to see that Sarah loves the microscope---a future microbiologist perhaps , Sean liked the Bernouli's principal exhibit--an engineer or future pilot maybe, and Luke liked the special exhibit on Grossology. Need I say anymore, he is a typical 6 year-old boy. Here he is climbing the wall of "skin". (Better than the vomit, booger, or urine stations in my opinion) The exhibit was very cool, and we all learned about the "neat" things our body can do!

He loves his Grandma's

Today, while putting Sean down for a nap I heard his say, "Love you Grandma Army Tic-Tac".
He is soooo sweet....when not crabby and frustrated. But that is life for a 2 year old. He lumps both Grandma's together now...all the time. It is so nice because he never forgets to include either. Did I mention the boy hasn't ever said, "Love you Mama" without prodding.

Top 10 things heard poolside




#10: Jessica: "We REALLY need a vacuum"
#9: Jessica: "Has anyone checked the chemicals?"
#8: Jessica: "Did anyone bother to skim the top?"
#7: Kids: "Can we get in yet?" (Mom is attending to #9 & #8)
#6: Patrick: "I don't care how gross the house is, the pool makes this the best thing ever!"
#5: Sarah: "Watch this...Watch this!!!"
#4: Sean : "1, 2, 3 RIVERDOGS!" (explanation, anything athletic requires Sean to scream something about the Riverdogs....Charleston's minor leaugue baseball team....perhaps Sean thinks he plays for them....while running, throwing, playing tennis, and swimming)
#3: Jessica and Patrick: "Walk please!"
#2: Jessica and Patrick: "Walk means don't run....go slowly!"
#1: Luke: "I can get that ball, I must be smarter than the dog!" (Bosco likes to take the basketball when they play in the pool....and yes Luke is confident he is more intelligent than a dog)

Saturday, July 14, 2007

Siblings are a blessing

Sure they fight, whine, and loudly disagree (at times)...but they are also a blessing to one another. Like today, when after a long...hot....walk outside we had another battle with Kelty Family Foe #1....the fire ants. As always, Sean was our first into battle. While I was cleaning up the stroller and walk accessories, I heard Luke yell..."Mom, Sean has ants..."and then the cries from the baby began. I now know the drill well....I run. I strip off his shoes, clothes, diaper, and I swat, shoe, wipe, the ants off as fast as possible. I looked for Luke and saw him crying to my side. He is very empathetic to his "baby's" pains. I ran the baby inside only to call over my shoulder, "Sarah, please grab Sean's clothes and shoes....bang them off if you are brave". I plopped the baby in the sink, and by then, Sarah was at my side and said, "I already did Mama, here they are". That girl is brave! I calmed the baby and had him play in the cool sink water. Then I sat him on the couch with an ice pack on the bites I could see. Sarah then played Mama to Sean as she surrounded him with toys and books and played with him while I hunted down the Benedryl (I'm nearly out.....I hate those ants!) Needless to say the boy is fine, and quite tough. He only cried until the ants were off. After ice, benedryl, and his sister, he was quite happy. However, 10 ant blisters later, Mama was not. Therefore, Daddy went outside to begin the Kelty assault. The man raked, pulled weeds, and is now resetting all the brick that surrounds the pool slab...many, many ants around those parts. He has laid fire ant killer under all the brick before resetting it. We may be half-way done???? But sooner or later the ants will get the hint and move off our property. If we are nothing, we are a team that fights and plays together. They are all my little blessings.

Thursday, July 12, 2007

Mission Impossible

Who blogs at midnight? Only tired people who can't sleep due to strange noises from strange critters. So I will now venture into the darkness of my backyard...in pj's, with a flashlight, and kitchen utensils....to find this annoying beast. He sounds like a cross between Fran Drescher speaking yiddish and a squeaky door hinge. Can't take it much longer......my hubby is off saving sight at midnight...and I'm killing critters....ain't life grand?!

Wednesday, July 11, 2007

Ribbit.....ribbit....


Apparently, we live on Animal Planet. We've become friends with the "bug guy" who has helped us with our ant problem. He has also relieved my fears about the spiders I was finding. We have very tiny frogs in the yard, which Luke loves to catch. I don't mind those, but do feel bad when it is mowing day. It is bizarre to see them hopping out of the way. I suppose they don't all make it though. Then there was the 4 inch grasshopper, tree frogs that serenade us to sleep.....and today Mr. Frog greeted me at the door step....to the screened in pool....on the inside.....how did he get in? Anyhow, I have him cornered, and added my shoe to illustrate his size. Now I have to figure out how to get him outside before he decideds to take a swim. Did I mention I plan to do this without actually touching the frog...they kind of creep me out. I think it is the whole jump when you least expect it thing.

Monday, July 9, 2007

Life is a beach!





Here we are in Tampa. Just about all settled in. Kudos to my hubby who, due to my mother's illness, moved here a week before I did. He walked into a disaster, and make it quite nice before I arrived. The man has spent the last 2 weeks refinishing floors, dealing with bugs, caulking everything, trimming trees, bushes, grass, buying a car, purchasing things for the house.....all without complaining. Needless to say, our first big rest involved the beach. And for a short time the man got to rest. Please note the blue-green water. You can see through the clear water to the critters and shells below. It was amazing. I hope I have now encouraged everyone to come visit!!!

A return to the blog

Well folks....it's been awhile. A ton has happened in the past 2 months. Sean turned two. Patrick graduated from residency. We moved to Tampa. My mom got seriously ill while in Charleston right before we moved. Perhaps you will cut me some slack for the lack of posts. However, I will strive to stay more current and speaking of current, I now have cable internet...whoa!

Thursday, April 26, 2007

Big boy footsteps


As mom's we all have our sturggles in handing over our "babies" into the world of big kids. I find myself in that struggle with my little guy. No longer a baby, he wants to do everything, "myself". I can no longer put him in or take him out of the car...he does it "myself". He climbs in and out of the highchair..."myself". He walks up the front steps..."myself". And when I fight the tears watching him grow, I call him over to give me a kiss....and he giggles and runs away "no...no...no" most of the time. He yells with joy..."I did it" to every new feat. He prefers playing with his siblings much more then mom. I do not recall the last time I saw him without a ball. They go everywhere with us now, golf balls, baseballs, basketballs, golf clubs too sometimes! While it is very exciting to carry on a full-fledged conversation with my guy, and hear him say "sorry" and "yes sir"----we are working on ma'am, after reprimands, I miss my snuggle bug. So everything about Sean is now big boy, except shoes. I refuse to allow him to wear big kid tennis shoes...to me that is the end of babyhood, and I'm just not ready. Take a look at his shoes...the new shoes. They looked like this 3 days after purchase. Sorry Grandma, but we will wear them until we out grow them. Maybe then, I will be ready to be the mother of an officially "big boy"!

Off with their hair!


Well, it is officially summer for the Kelty's. The boys have been buzzed! I can only take so many sweaty, little grubby boys for so long, and then I snap! First came the dog....you can't tell just how short he is in this picture. But, my big, fluffy, sheepdog-like dog is now a skinny twerp. Patrick is concerned he is malnourished, but I'm sure he is fine. He no longer brings all the leaves, and live oak tree pods in from the yard. Thus I no longer vacuum 5 times a day. Yay for me. Luke was next in the "trim" department. Then came little Sean. After leaving swimming lessons, someone asked if Sean took them too....um...no that is just his sweat covered head looking like he was doused in water. Off with his hair I say.

Wednesday, April 11, 2007

Easter




We had a blessed Easter and hope you all did too. It was a busy time as we returned from our vacation. We had an egg hunt at a local vineyard in town. It was a beautiful day spent with maybe 150 other people. The in-laws of friends own the vineyard and it is a thing they put on yearly. Imagine a scene from your latest Pottery Barn magazine.....and a bunch of little black gnats flying around! Then we entered Holy Week which I have concluded is my favorite week of the year, but most exhausting as well. We spent a quiet Monday and Tuesday around the house thinking of Jesus and trying to do good deeds in order to remove the thorns from our crown. (This was an idea we worked on all of lent. I made a crown of thorns--toothpicks stuck in a brown paper plate) For any unsolicited good deed, the do good child got to take out a thorn because those deeds where helping to relieve Jesus of some suffering. Perhaps next year we will work on Patrick's suggestion....jab the thorns in the crown for every mean deed....or maybe not.


Anyhow, we had some work to do Holy Week to have our crown to the desired "empty" by Easter. On Wednesday we went to a Byzantine Catholic Church for their chrism service (where they bless the holy oils to be used during the upcoming year) It was quite long-over 2 hours- but the kids did great, and we enjoyed the chanting and beautiful music and incense. Thursday I had a brainstorm.....we needed to celebrate Passover dinner as Jesus and his Apostles did. So I searched several grocery stores for lamb shanks (I have never cooked lamb before). The kids and I cooked the afternoon away...lamb, unleavened bread, grape juice, bitter herbs, apples and nuts.....I tried to do the best rendition I could. We discussed Passover at the dinner table that night and then went to Mass that evening. The kids love this Mass where we hear about the institution of the Priesthood, the Eucharist and the washing of feet.....the kids always hope they will be picked, but they didn't mind watching the others have their feet washed. Then we spent some time before the Blessed Sacrament. Then on to Good Friday. We decided to make an effort to be solemn and quiet from 12-3. Sean took a big nap, so that was easy. The kids and I colored our stations of the cross and posted them around the school room and then made our way of the cross in prayer. At 3 we went to a service at church. It is Sarah's favorite as she asks at various times throughout the year when she can kiss the cross......well she won't remember it this year as her head hit the pew in sleep about 5 minutes before we got to that part. Easter was ever joyful, with Mass and ham, mashed potatoes, collards, asparagus, and candy. We spent that afternoon at the ballpark watching the Riverdogs.....an interesting tradition in the making....hmmmm...... Anyhow, I am still tired from last week......I wish the kids were. They are still on a candy high I am afraid. Here are some pictures of the gang.

I did it!!!!

While this is one of Sean's favorite sayings at the moment (imagine loud yell, proud smile, hands clenched in the air as he masters a new feat), this time it is for myself. And only other moms will appreciate it, but here goes. Today, I accomplished everything on my to-do list! I don't remember the last time it happened, and frankly I fear it may not happen again for 16 or so years. So this entry will log my day and what I got done. First, let me acknowledge that I hate that I still try to accomplish my to-do list. I realize that being a fun, loving mom comes first (or make that second to a fun, loving wife...uh hmmmm.....) I struggle to let go of the housework, errands, and "stuff of daily living". It is a battle I admit exists for me and I am working to tame the "crazy demon woman" within who just wants to check off the stuff on the list. There are some days when most of the stuff gets done, but I crumple into a heap of "mom guilt" at night as I think of the time I squandered on things other than the children, who are growing much too fast. Then there are the days when the kids and I have a fun time, but I have trouble falling asleep as I ponder the messy state of affairs in the kitchen, bathroom, laundry room, etc.

But, here was today. I got up at 4:45 and was at church by 5 for adoration. I spent an hour in prayer (this normally falls as Patrick's Wednesday morning duty, but he was tired, and has a big test, and I can always use points in my "fun, loving wife" tally--so I went for him). I was at home by 6 for a jog with the dog (again, not my usual thing, but I am trying to make it that...too much Easter candy or something!!). It rained on our jog, so I gave Bosco a bath when we got home. I finished my exercising, cleaned the bathroom that smelled like dog and showered by 7:30. Did the wake-up, day clothes, breakfast, kid thing. Dusted, vacuumed, swept, and mopped the house, did two loads of laundry. Made a snack for the kiddos (I swear they would eat all day!) We did school, including are new subject (how to read music) and tried a bit of piano--eek, I can play with one hand, but not two. We had lunch. I paid bills. We went to the Children's Museum (this usually dispels any mom guilt for the day). We had dinner (wendy's takeout since the chicken I was planning to make refuses to thaw!). We had baths, read books, and were in bed by 7. It never, ever happens this way. Thank you God for miracles like this!

Monday, April 2, 2007

We're Back

We just arrived home from vacation. A week and Grandma and Grandpa's house and a quick stop in Cincinnati. We had such fun. The kids love to visit with "the family". The weather was better than expected, sunny and 70's for the week. Apparently we didn't need the winter coats, hats, gloves, and long sleeved shirts that I packed. Go figure! I think I am finally reorganized here at home following the loads of laundry, grocery shopping, mail sorting, etc that follow any trip. Now I have time for the other things in life....like trips to the library that my 6 year old begs for...daily. I cannot keep enough books in this house to last multiple days for Luke. I am so happy he loves to read, but so unhappy that I have to take my 2 year old to the library, again. I will have Luke looking for his books, Sarah looking for her books, and Sean taking any book possible off the shelf, or playing with the water fountain, or dumping out the box of crayons, or playing hide-and-seek along the shelves. I work up a sweat long before the trek out of the library, which entails trying to get a 2 year old to hold my hand, finding my keys, and helping the other 2 carry out arm loads of books which we'll try not to lose before we do it all again in 3 days. I also have to iron pokemon cards. I don't know if this will work, but it is my only idea to salvage cards that went through the laundry. Oh yeah, I have to iron many articles of clothing as well, but for some reason, the little people only care about the cards! So hence there is no picture with this blog entry. I hope to get to that in several days...as long as I'm not at the library.

Tuesday, March 20, 2007

When did they grow up?




I'm not sure when it happened. I guess I wasn't watching closely enough, but my boys are growing....quickly! Luke will put the toothfairy out of business at the rate he is going. He lost his top two front teeth, today! Thankfully, Patrick enjoys wiggling and pulling. For some reason, I cannot stomach it. Diapers, spit-up...no problem. Show me a wiggly tooth, one facing the wrong direction....uhhh, I wan't to keel over. So Patrick and Luke wiggled, pulled, and used floss as a tug-a-tooth rope, and managed to get them both out today. I am so glad. It was honestly grossing me out to look in poor Luke's direction. His teeth were all "funny" looking.




Then there is my other little man, Sean. He is so cuddly and snuggly, yet I am sensing the TWO'S upon us. We have had some "nice" tantrums lately. I find it much easier the third time around. I realize this too shall pass. The kids and I often talk about our guardian angles, our family and relatives on earth, and our "family" in heaven. I try to remind the kids that while we pray for each other, and Gramy and Grampy, and all our aunts, cousins, friends, the poor, little babies, all our blessings like the nice weather, flowers etc.... (as you can see our list goes on and on sometimes....usually right before bed--maybe it is a ploy to stay up later?) we can also ask our family in heaven to pray for us during our stuggles here on earth. On this day, Sean may have gotten the lesson better than us all, as he shares a kiss with a statue of the Blessed Mother. Luckily, I had my camera while taking pictures of the kids in the leaves, but this one warmed my heart.

Thursday, March 15, 2007

Things I learned today

1. It is spring--which also means fall here in the Lowcountry. We have birds singing, azaleas and camellias in bloom, warm sunshine (it is 80 degrees!), and we are raking leaves.....yes apparently Live Oaks lose leaves in the spring. So we are raking and jumping in leaves...by we I mean Patrick and the kids....I have floors to mop!

2. A 20 month old should have 2 pairs of tennis shoes. (One pair will get horribly dirty at big brother's baseball practice and need washing---the other pair will inevitably find the "only" hidden pile of dog-do in the yard).

3. Always check little shoes for dog-do after raking leaves. These shoes may somehow make their way in the house (on freshly mopped floors).

4. Be thankful for hardwoods instead of carpet due to item 3.

5. Any husband who willingly eats pizza at a business dinner, in order to bring the entree home to his wife is a wonderful, special, and generous man. He is extraordinary when the entree is a Maine Lobster roll--full of memories for his wife, and the biggest chunks of lobster claw meat I have ever seen!

6. Be thankful for friends who allow you to come to their house between appointments to "kill time". Be very, very thankful when multiple boys, brownies, and pluff mud are involved--they aren't getting your house dirty!

7. Try very hard to store in your memory these days that are passing to quickly. I will surely forget rosy cheeks after just waking up, a snuggly baby sucking his thumb and rubbing his blankie on his nose, the voracious appetite for food and books of a growing 6 year old, the joyous and LOUD voice of a 5 year old who finds excitement in everything, the way a 2 year old sings the ABC's getting every few letters correct.

Monday, March 12, 2007

Questions for Mom

I worked a lot this weekend doing the real estate thing. It was crazy, but somehow choreographed well as Patrick and I met up several times and swapped off kids. While I worked yesterday, Patrick took the kids to the park for a picnic and the dog to the dog park for some play time. At some point I got a phone call from Luke, "Mom where is the dog brush?" That is a great question, as no one knows where I mysteriously hide items, myself included. A short time later I got another call...from Luke, "Hi mom, what are you doing?" A bit frazzled, I told him I was working, asked what Daddy was doing, and told him to tell Daddy that he was talking on the phone. A bit later, I got another call, from Luke, "Mom do you know where my rock is?" I replied, "What rock?" Luke said, "The rock I found at the park, today?" Having missed out on that adventure, I told him I hadn't seen the rock. "Well do you have a plan on how I could find it?" he asked. So I began the list of pockets, the couch, on the bathroom floor, etc.

Sometimes, they just need to talk to mom---that is when it is very hard to be away!

Friday, March 9, 2007

Blessings and curses of healthfood

Just a friendly FYI...health food is great. For example...we have a bag of dried apricots on the counter. When the kiddos are itching for a snack, and I'm busy, they grab apricots. But beware... a busy mom in the kitchen may hand a 2 year old many, many, many apricots while cooking dinner, to keep his whinning down to a minimum. SOME moms may forget how many apricots are sensible, and allow her little one to eat way too many over the course of 12-24 short hours. This is apparently the curse of health food. It tastes good....they like it....they eat it. Moms then change many, many, many diapers (and t-shirts, and pants, even shoes and socks) Next time I'll opt for potato chips!

Thursday, March 8, 2007

My own St. Patrick


I love my husband very much....and seem to realize it more MOST days. He is so helpful around the house and with the kiddos. I suppose he always was, but my eyes are only beginning to open to it now. Besides my coffee fill ups in the morning, and taking the cranky brood off my hands while I try and prepare dinner....he even wakes up to deal with nightmares and crying toddlers at 1am. I'm convinced his ears have thankfully become more sensitive to such distress. Any man who can make vomiting a fun game for a 2 year old is a hero in my book. "It is a game Luke, we try to get it in the bucket, and if you do, you win!" Anyhow, here is Mr. Wonderful clad in an apron, with a sand shovel in hand. He was helping the kids plant clover so I didn't have to get dirty! The clover was a gift from friends, and it came at a great time. Next week is St.Patrick's Day and maybe will will have our own Shamrock patch. By the grace of God we will also be studying the Holy Trinity in religion and we will use our Shamrocks as St. Patrick did...to illustrate the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Thanks be to God for husbands!

Shady business ethics

While most boys ages 6-9 aspire to be athletes and superheroes or better yet...their Dad, I'm afraid my son may hope to be a CFO of a company with little ethics oversight. Someone better warn Jeff Skilling and Ken Ley to make room at the big house.....Luke Kelty is now a "businessman". While changing a squirming toddler I caught the big kids in heated conversation. I questioned what was up, and thankfully Sarah Clare blurted out, "Luke took money from our friends for Pokemon cards." Now, this is not the first time Luke has tried to sell various household items of his for profit...and he knows we don't like the practice (yes...hypocritical enough as his parents were, for a short time, some of Craig's list most frequent listers) nonetheless... Seeing as the diaperchange was a challenge, I called in for disciplinary reinforcement, ie...Dad. Now, for Luke this was a blessing. In the middle of multiple activities my discipline tends to the "What did you do? You know not to do that...what were you thinking?" rhetoric. Now, Dad is law here, but he is very patient, interested, and resolved to get to the bottom of things. Eitherway, it usually ends up a better lesson, if Dad teaches it. Patrick, patiently asked all the right questions (and allowed Luke to think through the answers). I tend to forget that step! At one point when the discussion headed to the "Why did you do it if you knew it was wrong" direction Luke answered...."I know, mortal sin...." You have to imagine a picky eater remembering to eat broccoli after an hour of staring at his plate to understand the tone of voice here......So he is beginning to understand these faith items, seemingly he he cares little for action at this point.....(another blog entry altogether I suspect....) Anyhow, I stifled disappointment and a smile at the same time. A few moments later I caught Patrick's eyes, and I saw disbelief.....he had counted out the "loot" Luke had brought home from his day of "direct sales".....Patrick flatly stated, "$15 and some change....in quarters...." Yes my son, who I thought had brought home some pennies and nickles, had made a $15 profit by selling about 15 Pokemon cards. Where have I failed? After further discussion and a monetary refund in full to his friends the event ended. And so I worry, yet again, about my children. Have we taught right from wrong? On the bright side, if ever strapped for cash, I now know there is an untapped market of youth willing to pay top dollar for trading cards....what ever happened to those Garbage Pail kid cards I once had????

Tuesday, March 6, 2007

Hit Me! (Again)

I've been pondering God's gift of the family alot lately. What a wonderful and unique blessing. I dwell often on the enormous task we have of preparing the souls' of our children for God's work on earth and glory in Heaven. However, I realize the importance of our children for their efforts in preparing us also (probably unknown to them). How? These little people help to humble us mothers everyday. I am thankful that they are helping to humble my prideful soul so that one day I may be ready for Heaven. And if one child humbles, imagine what multiple children do!!!! Let's see....there is poop, pee, vomit, eating boogers in public...(these are just the items dealing with bodily functions and/or fluids). And so my morning began like this......me and three kids piled into our teeny bathroom for the morning ritual of hair combing and teeth brushing. Luke matter-of-factly asks, "Mom can you try to be more JOYFUL today?" Now please note, he did not ask for me to be happy or nice, he wanted full out joy. (As a mother, should I not have this quality daily...in abundance?) I answered, "huh, me, what...?" Luke responded, "You were kind of grouchy yesterday." And so I managed a weak smile, and short prayer....."OK Lord...Hit me again! What else are you trying to tell me?"

Monday, March 5, 2007

Tea for Two


Well, Daddy and his little girl got to go out for a tea date. They loved it. Sarah got to dress up with a hat, heels, and earrings...all provided by the "tea lady". On the drive home she told Daddy, "I wish we were still there". That mean Mommy that made them come home!


Her other question that startled me the other day: We were discussing the need to learn to tie our shoes. I asked what she would do at college if Daddy and I weren't there to tie her shoes. She informed me Mrs.Perkins....our friend would come to her house to tie them. (Mrs. Perkins is sure in for a big surprise!). Then Sarah asked, "What is college?" I explained you go there after high school to learn how to do your job (like be a teacher, doctor, etc...)


Sarah replied, "Do I have to go there to be a cheerleader?" UH..........Hmm.......yeah, Sarah I guess you do!

Thursday, March 1, 2007

Birthday Girl


I can't believe she is 5! It's been several days of partying with the Kelty's as we celebrate Sarah Clare. Her birthday was the 27th and our tradition involves balloons and signs posted by the time the birthday child awakes. Then they get to pick out the dinner for the day. Sarah Clare thought long and hard...then requested Macaroni and Cheese. I noted how fun it would be to make it with her from scratch when she informed me she wanted the blue kind, from a box....My heart was broken...I just didn't feel good about my "motherliness" if I made that for a birthday dinner. Instead, Sarah opted for breakfast for dinner. We had pancakes, waffles, cinnamon rolls, sausage, eggs, and strawberries.....everyone chowed down! The next day we had a party for her with 5 friends and her brothers at a Jump Castle place. We had pizza and cupcakes and jumped the day away. All had fun, and Sean screamed when it was time to leave!


Our big girl is such a helper. She helps me throughout the day by playing with Sean and helping me cook. She is happily learning to read and loves spending time with glue, glitter, markers, and paper. House and princesses are her favorite games, although she will gladly play Pokemon if it means her big brother will give her attention. She loves to be with her Daddy, and she looks forward to going out for High Tea with him on Saturday. Watching her grow into a young lady is such a joy, but happening too fast. God has blessed her with plenty of compassion and generosity. She happily looks out for the feelings of others and tries to make everyone get along. At her birthday party she introduced 2 friends in the following way...."Erin this is Alissa, Alissa this is Erin--(they then shook hands)...now let's all go play". She did this all by herself!

Wednesday, February 28, 2007

A Good Day

I knew it would be a good day when I opened the door to put out the dog at 7am. How did I know this? Pluff mud...... For those of you unfamiliar, "pluff mud" is the muddy, mucky, ooze that lines the bottom of the marsh here in the Lowcountry. When the tide goes out to sea, this ooze is exposed to air and creates an aromatic experience. Now, when we first moved here, I found it a very strange perhaps even yucky smell. Now, I love it. And this was how I knew it would be a good day. You only have a a few chances to smell it throughout the day, and you have to be outside at the right time, and today I was. The day greeted me with warm sunshine, birds singing, and the comfortable smell of pluff mud. I had a brief thought of throwing us all in boots (uh...we don't have any), and heading to the marsh to walk through the mud and grass and find critters and enjoy the sun. Then I quickly thought of the mess and cast it aside. Wouldn't you know that God granted me this little joy today through Luke. We went to visit some friends while Sarah was at her Girls Club event. While the moms and I chatted on the porch, the boys took off for the marsh that starts at the end of their backyard. An hour later, Luke appeared soaked through and muddy...smelling like pluff mud. He looked worried and apologized profusely for his wet clothes, shoes, etc....he new we had 30 minutes to get Sarah and get to the jump castle place for her birthday party. For once, I didn't stress or get frustrated at figuring out how to get him clean and to the party......I told him to go back to the marsh for a few minutes. It all worked out. More on Sarah's party tomorrow. Today I am just thankful for my pluff mud morning, which by God's grace, allowed me a peaceful pluff mud afternoon.

PS: in addition to my new love for pluff mud, I recently made delicious collard greens...and shrimp and grits.....and we love oysters (by we I include "picky"Sarah and Sean, who is entirely too young to eat something that can cause food poisoning....) I'm hoping that while you can take us out of the South, that you can't take the South out of us. My hope is to soak in all Charleston offers these next few months. Either that or I have to figure out how to grow Live Oaks and Spanish moss elsewhere....that could be complicated. Oh yeah.....what does Sarah want for her 5th birthday....a date with her Daddy for High Tea--she may be the most "Southern" of us all.