Show and Tell

Both kids are enjoying their weekly Show and Tell sessions at school. Jeremy's class had been focusing on bringing in pictures of the family (which made me scrounge up the most recent one of our Christmas card, until our neighbor took those pictures at the Sunset Festival). This week he gets to bring in something green. What do you want to bet it's going to be Packer related?

Riley's class has been working on the letters of the alphabet. She already had letter A, for which she brought in Ariel, much to Phil's delight.

The letter B was a little more challenging, because she didn't want to bring in anything other kids might have, such as a ball or book. So she chose Barbie....after we were able to locate clothes for the figure.

Then at dinner yesterday she announced that she's not bringing in anything for the letter R. We asked her why not. And her response was:

"I'm bringing in myself, and I begin with the letter R."

Can't really argue with that logic, now can you?

Sunset Festival

Earlier this month during Labor Day weekend, our little town/village held its annual festival. While we have never actually attended the carnival portion, we've gone the last several years to the parade. It's on the Saturday of the long weekend, and the kids know that it's full of lots of people and candy. Can you guess which is their favorite aspect?

A rare family picture, with Riley posing.

And another family picture, this time with Jeremy picking his nose. Nice.

We met up with a bunch of neighbors and their kids, and we all had such a wonderful time. The kids caught tons of candy, the parents enjoyed each others' company, and a good time was had by all.

Hanging out with our neighbors and their families.

The kids with their dear friends.

Waiting patiently for the candy!

We're already looking forward to next year!

Jeremy's First Day of Preschool

Uncle D reading a bedtime story to Riley and Fiona (the cat).

We were blessed to have Uncle D spend a night out at our house, and it just so happened that the following day was on Jeremy's first day of school. I think it softened the blow of him actually going, because he was so excited and ready to get on his backpack. Jeremy, not Uncle D.

Posing with Uncle D before school.

Jeremy is starting to show his fear.

Being silly with Uncle D.

Two kids ready for school.

We took Riley to the bus stop and then hopped in the car to take J to school. It was then that he actually realized that he was going to school and that D and I were going home. He put up a little bit of a fight getting out of the car. And although Riley went to the same preschool, I was not pleased with how the teachers approached him on his first day.

The class technically started two days prior, but I'm only sending Jeremy two times a week, on Wed. and on Fri. The teachers made no effort to introduce themselves to him, nor did they attempt to help me pry Jeremy off of me. I basically said to one of the teachers, "Here, Will you take him?" And I could hear him crying as I left the room. I'm grateful for having Derek's shoulder to lean on, as the whole Jeremy entering preschool was definitely a lot harder than I thought it would be.

But wouldn't you know that the time that Jeremy was at school just flew by? I put Derek to work by fixing our master closet shelves, which he actually volunteered to do. Then we went to pick up Jeremy, who was beyond excited to see us. He did tell me that he didn't cry much after we left.

We enjoyed some lunch, and then Uncle D and Jeremy enjoyed some Frisbee, which both boys just love. And not to leave Riley out, D met her at school and had lunch with her. Riley tends to be a slow eater, and Derek said he'd race her to finish her food first. And it worked!

Jeremy enjoying his Frisbee throw.

Two boys playing Frisbee.

Just before rest time, we bid adieu to Uncle D, knowing that in a few short days we'd see him again, along with Casey, for their farewell at Papa and Nana's.

J's Results

I received a call from the ped's office today with Jeremy's test results: he's allergic to ragweed. It could be worse: he could be allergic to a lot of other aspects that we'd have to adjust to, but luckily that isn't the case. I had thought of a multitude of items he could be allergic to, and even the doctor put in my head that he might be allergic to our cats. And what would we do in that circumstance? Luckily we don't need to worry about that.

Where do we go from here? The nurse recommended Zyrtec if his eyes get really itchy or bloodshot, which I haven't noticed. The nurse also said that he will feel better once we receive a few hard frosts, which at this rate, will happen any day now. Does anyone know what happened to summer, because I think I blinked and missed the warm temperatures!

We're scheduled to speak on Thursday with the actual doctor who administered the blood test. She isn't in the office until then, so I guess we can gather up some questions to ask her. I didn't know what type of questions to originally ask since I had no idea what we're dealing with.

So that's the news from this end regarding Jeremy. Now to get back to some belated entries.

Poor J

I finally succumbed yesterday and took Jeremy to the doctor to determine if he indeed does have allergies. Phil and I have suspected it all along; ever since J was a baby when he had horrible eczema, we felt that there was something "off" in regards to his skin. I was the one who didn't want to deal with the allergy testing, because I thought that doctors' offices only did skin scratch tests. I found out about two weeks ago from a neighbor that some offices only do a blood draw and send the blood vials out for testing.

I think the last straw was when Jeremy woke up looking like this about two weeks ago:

Poor little guy covered in hives.

They didn't bother him, though.

More hives on his body.

So I called the doctor's office to see what they offered, and I was told that they do an initial consultation and then determine if they should draw blood in the office or send you and the child elsewhere.

We met with the doctor, only after getting J weighed, measured and his blood pressure taken! I spoke with the doctor and discussed my concerns. I also showed her the pictures of him that I posted above, and we decided to go through with the blood draw. I want to know for sure why he is scratching himself to the point where he bleeds. I want to know if it's a subconscious thing or if there's a reason behind it. The doctor asked if we had pets, and what we'd do if we found out he's allergic to the cats. I said we'd cross that bridge when we got there. I mean, there are so many factors to worry about--moms have enough on their plate than to constantly worry about the 'what ifs'.

Jeremy laid down on the table, and I held his free arm. I cradled his head so he couldn't see what was going on, and let me just say that I have the bravest child ever. He only shed one tear when they pulled the needle out. They took two vials of blood, and I got him to talk about suckers and how much he liked them. I think that was more for both of us as I didn't watch the procedure.

My brave boy did awesome. I treated him to some ice cream, and he picked out the flavor: Superman. I felt bad for having him endure that, but I hope the results are worth it. We should know something early next week as to if he's allergic to animals, food or pollen. Send good thoughts our way.

Enjoying his colorful Superman ice cream.

My brave boy.

A Breather

With several weeks under our belt, I'd say that we're into a nice swing of things. I still need to take the pictures off the camera of Jeremy's first day of school (poor neglected second child), and talk about how traumatic preschool has been for him (and for me), but after several classes down, he seems to be doing better. As do I. I'm taking the time for myself, which is something I haven't done ever since I quit my job to stay home with the kids. And although it's just a few hours a week, it makes a world of difference.

I've taken up running. Yes, me. I still hate it (seriously, do you ever see runners actually happy? I mean, running isn't even a sport--it doesn't take skill. It takes stamina. But I digress.). But it's getting my blood pumping and not making me feel like such a couch potato. I took the time on Friday to go donate blood. My 36th donation, thankyouverymuch. And I'll brag some more and say that my blood pressure was 102/76. That's right. See what happens when I don't have kids around.

Don't get me wrong: I still miss the kids dearly. And I'm giddy to get Jeremy from preschool two times a week. But that time away is long enough to allow me to recharge. And maybe watch a few television shows (in between the time I spend cleaning) that aren't very child friendly!

I had planned to work on my freelancing a bit while the house was empty, but my freelancing gigs have dried up a bit. I'm still searching around for more jobs, but like most regular job markets, the pickings are slim. But I'll keep looking and hoping for the perfect job that allows me to continue doing what I love. Until then, I'll just enjoy those few hours a week. Until a school break occurs!

Off to Wisconsin!

Before the kids started school, I wanted us to visit with my cousin and her kids. We had hoped to see them this summer for the family reunion, but a few of their family members became ill, so they didn't make the trip. I had taken the kids up there earlier this year to see the newest member of the family, as Jeremy calls him, Baby Samuel.

Riley and Baby Samuel.

Look at that face!

Cousins on the floor.

Sam playing with his toys.

We had a wonderful visit, as always, and Riley was just in heaven because Sam is at the perfect age to play with. He has an infectious smile and laugh, and I think that the kids liked that he stayed in one place after you left the room. Auggie, the oldest of the three, is in the background.

Riley hanging out with Colton, who also started kindergarten this year.

I had a great time chatting with my older cousin, relating the trials and joys of having children. I think we both wish we lived closer, although the almost two hours it took was enjoyable on the way home because both kids slept. The next time we visit up North, we've agreed that the kids should check out their many baby calves. Thanks for letting us hang out and catch up!

Who Me, Bossy?

Overheard at our house this afternoon:

Phil: Riley, are you being bossy?
Riley: No. Right, Jeremy?

Just another day in the life.

8 Years

So last month (yes, I'm STILL that far behind!), we celebrated our eight-year anniversary. Exactly one month ago. Crazy how time flies.

Reciting our vows on Aug. 11, 2001.

Us eight years later.

I had joked when Derek arrived that he owes me a year's worth of babysitting, and surprisingly, it was his idea that Phil and I spend our anniversary together and he (along with Casey) would watch the kids.

Our anniversary turned out to be on a Tuesday this year, so Phil asked if he could switch his at-home day from Tuesday to Wednesday, because I wanted to meet him downtown for part of our "date" day. And, believe it or not, this was the first anniversary where we actually had plans, other than, say, dinner and a movie.

Since Phil was already downtown, I dropped the kids off at Mom and Dad's with D and Casey, and then I walked to the train station. It was so odd being on the train by myself and having a chance to read with peace and quiet. I walked over to his office and then we went to lunch at the House of Blues.

Then we walked over to where the architectural boat tour was happening. Only to find out that the next boat was leaving at 3:00--the 1:30 one was full. Drat.

So what did we decide to do? We hoofed it over to Navy Pier. For those who aren't familiar with downtown, it was far. Very far. But we prevailed. And we secured a seat on an official architectural boat tour.

We had a wonderful time listening to the guide talk about the city's buildings. It was 1.5 hours and the weather was perfect. I enjoyed many of the boat's delicious free chocolate chip cookies, which Phil so graciously brought to me.

Here are some photos from our tour:













Afterward, we succumbed and took a cab back to his office to pick up his bag. We boarded separate trains since I needed to get back to Park Ridge to get the kids while Phil took an express one to Cary. We did meet up with home, and all in all, it was a perfectly wonderful day.

Even if it happened a month ago.

Summer with C and D

I started this little blog just over a year ago, with my main intention to keep my brother and his wife abreast of what was happening in our lives. You see, they were beginning their adventures overseas, teaching in Lebanon. And I figured this would be a perfect way to see what we're up to and to read about funny stories about the kids.

I had no idea it would morph into something a little bigger. I've come to enjoy posting about our lives (when I have the time!). It's a great way to record life with my two monkeys. So thanks for following along.

Back to our regular posting:
C and D arrived back in the Midwest in late July, and promptly spent a few days with the family. We've had so much fun with them, and it's sad to think they're heading back to Lebanon tomorrow. The summer flew by, but we hope that the time they spend overseas will fly just as fast.

After spending a fabulous time downtown with Mom and Casey while Uncle D watched the kids, we headed back home the next day, only to return to Mom and Dad's just a few days later. D and C hosted a party to unite their friends along with my parents' friends. It was a time for laughter, playing a song trivia game and enjoying some wonderful food. The kids even tried on their Arab costumes that Uncle D and Casey bought.

Not the best picture, but still adorable.
Their Arab names are Yazmina and Muhammad.

At the end of the month C and D headed out to our place to see Riley participate in a T-ball game. Little did Uncle D know that he would be entertaining some of the siblings of Riley's teammates, as he was kicking a soccer ball around. The next thing I know he has his own harem of about 5-6 kids!'

Kicking the ball with Uncle D.

Riley playing the infield.

D entertaining the siblings.

The kids with C and D after the game.

The next day C and D met up with us at the zoo. This is turning into a yearly event that the kids thoroughly enjoy. This year was the first year Casey was able to join us, as she battled the flu last year about this time. The kids loved showing Casey all around the zoo, which also included a trip on the safari bus. Both kids had been looking forward to that, almost as much as they were looking forward to going to the zoo with their aunt and uncle!

Riley on her favorite animal: flamingo.

Jeremy and Uncle D on the carousel.

Riley talking with Casey on the safari bus.

Jeremy doing his walrus impression, thanks to Uncle D.

Riley posing for the camera.

Jeremy enjoying a ride from Uncle D.
(Note that Jeremy still has an infatuation with
playing with hair,no matter what gender.)

Uncle D's favorite animals: giraffes.

A picture on the famous lions outside the zoo.

I think all parties had a wonderful time, and the kids promptly passed out during the car ride home. Thanks, C and D!