Halloween 2010

This year Ava was pretty excited about going trick or treating. I think she now understands that she was going to get some candy. George's parents and our daughter Ashley came over for an early dinner, and then we all set out to trick or treat with the kids. We were grateful for the good weather as last year was very cold. Ava was a butterfly and the twins were matching caterpillars. Ava was very polite at each door and said Thank-you. It was good to spend time with family and to see our cute little bugs dressed up.

Update on the Twins and Ava

The twins and Ava are growing up so very fast and I wish I had a remote control so that I could slow down some of our days together. However, other days I would gladly fast forward or skip altogether. They are fast approaching their 9 month mark and Jovi now has two bottom teeth, with her top FOUR coming in at the same time. Nights with her have been a little rough due to her teething. Finn is now pulling himself up on things and has tried to even take a few steps. They both are crawling everywhere and are curious about other parts of the house. We have again been blessed with very good natured babies and they always seem to have a smile for us. Jovi is a giggler and more vocal than Finn. Finn is a charmer with his adoring eyes and gracious grin. Ava is still in her testing phase as seen in most 2 year olds. She can carry a conversation on for most of her waking hours and George and I have to chuckle sometimes how long winded she really can be. She is ALWAYS asking questions and make observations in the world around her. She can make us laugh until our belly hurts by her observations and/or questions and then other times she can be a trial on our patience. Ava is like a sponge that is absorbing so much information. She has learned her ABC's, Days of the Week, Colors and Shapes, Counting to ten, and lately she has attempted to write out letters with some success. She sings alot and even makes up her own songs. George and I are so thankful for these three sweet cherubs but also look forward to someday sleeping in past 7:00am.

Ander's Visit- Relaxing & Refreshing

This last weekend we had Brooke, Corey and Malin up from Indy for a visit and we so enjoyed our time with them. We never ceased to find things to talk about and food and drinks were always near by. Malin and Ava played and had fun at the playground, carving a pumpkin, playing in the leaves, painting, girl talking at night, and riding bikes in the driveway. We wished we could see them more often and we are looking forward to putting a date on the calendar again.

Visit with my Mom and Dad -Oct 18th

For most of my adult life, I have been at odds with my Dad and from time to time we have verbally battled it out. Then about seven years ago, things between us became unbearable and we haven't spoken or seen each other in seven years. I still kept in touch with my Mom but as her illness with Alzheimer's continued to get worse, it was more difficult to see or talk with her because of my Dad's reluctance in cooperation. So, with that said, you can imagine my surprise and awkwardness when I went to see my Mom on a Monday morning and he answered the door and stayed for the visit. He was cordial and civil and very happy to meet Ava for the first time. He spent time with us looking at old photographs and reminiscing about past memories. He doted on Ava and she seemed amused. The visit ended with some hugs and some tears and now I'm not sure how to feel. It still feels like unfinished business. I'm praying for continued guidance and obedience to God's will in this matter because I sure can't do it on my own.

Ox Bow County Park- Oct 16th & 17th

What a beautiful Fall weekend it was on the 16th and 17th and both days were spent at Ox Bow County park with the kids. Ava was able to run all over and the twins enjoyed all the pretty leaves falling around us. The weather was perfect!!! We even were able to enjoy a group of Deer that was running through the woods. They stopped to see us, then moved on, only to return again for a better look at us. I love the Fall with all its beautiful splendor!

Finn not really caring about the pumpkins

Jovi and her first pumpkin

Ava Picking out Pumpkins

The Gours at the Pumpkin Patch

Pumpkin Patch 2010

Every year we pick out pumpkins at this farmhouse on Douglas road and they have alot of variety and many places for photo opportunities. This Fall has been so warm, I had to nix all the cute fall clothing and put short sleeve shirts on the kids. It was even too warm to really have the twins in the sun, so we took turns with Ava as she made her way around the assortment of all the pumpkins and gourds. We met the Gour family there as well and took some cute photos of their girls. Wish we could have stayed longer to play and see the animals but all our kids were in need of their afternoon siesta.

Addition to the House

We decided to add a three season room where our existing deck was located. The purpose of this addition is to have more indoor/outdoor living space without the mosquitoes carrying us off. We started the project on September 27th and it is scheduled to be finished by November 3rd. We are pretty excited about the way it's coming together and if this warm weather holds out, we may even be able to use it before it turns cold.

90 Days in Training

A friend of mine sent me a blog invite that she is doing a 90 day fitness training and encouraged others to join her. I would love to allocate some time for working out but it seems unlikely at this time in my life. However, I did take her challenge seriously and what I needed even more than a physical workout was a spiritual one. I am sad to say that I have not picked up my Bible since the twins have been born. So with that said, I am on a 90 day spiritual journey and have been reading my Bible daily. I'm one third of the way (30 days) in and feel so much more peace. You know how good you feel when you start working out physically-more energy, better moods, etc. I can honestly say I am reaping some of those same benefits. I feel better about life and feel more equipped to handle the pitfalls that come along. Additionally, I feel more connected and less cynical about the world around me. I'm thankful that I have friends that will challenge and encourage me. (Thanks Rapture!)

Work Tools

Some people have a laptop and briefcase for work....I have the above for my daily work tools.

10 bottles, 18 jars of baby food, 9 bibs, 9 washcloths, 9 spoons, 10 burp clothes, 9 plates/bowls, 3 sippy cups, 16 to 20 diapers, baby wipes, several sets of clothing, books, Oodles and Oodles of toys and a running prayer that we all survive the day!

Papa, Grandma, and our three little ones

Welcome home for Julie McNamee

A friend of ours had a severe stroke back in August of this year, right after we attended her daughter's graduation party. It seemed surreal that this could happen to such a young and active woman, and it was a devastating blow to her family as well. However, even it the midst of this turmoil, God showed up in so many miraculous ways. We are so thankful that she is recovering and gaining strength each day. Her inspiring attitude and infectious spirit makes you rethink your perspectives on life's daily challenges and be thankful and grateful in ALL circumstances. She was released from the rehab center in September after 40 days of hard work and her husband Mark along with some of her great friends, planned a surprise welcome home party that included a newly renovated villa, fully furnished and decorated, and many many friends and family to greet her to what they refer to as their "Recovery Home." Mark and Julie had just marked their 27th wedding anniversary right before her stroke, but were unable to celebrate until her homecoming. I am so blessed to have been there for this very special event and glad to know both Mark and Julie and their wonderful children.

Ava in dance class

We signed Ava up for a Mommy and Me dance class at the Elkhart YMCA and the first 4 weeks of the class she did not want to participate. I even had her sister Ashley come one week, her friend Sophia come the next, and her Dad took a try at it also. All were unsuccessful. So what motivates a 2 year girl to dance in dance class???? Answer: Curious George fruit snacks! I was so excited that she did all the moves and told George how well she did and when we got home, George asked her "Do you like dance class now?" Ava: "No, but I got a monkey George fruit snack" I think she is smarter than we give her credit for. Since that day she has participated in each class (without the motivating fruit snack) and we have re-signed her up for another session. By now I think she is starting to enjoy it and looks forward to time with Mommy without the twins.

My New Luxury Vehicle

Got your attention with the title of this blog post, didn't I? Well, I'm about as happy as I could be with this new stroller system!!! It allows me the freedom to take all three kids out and it doesn't kill my back and shoulders after 20 minutes of pushing. It even has built in diaper bags zipped to the back of each seat. I LOVE IT!!! Finally found something comparable to the Orbit stroller system we had with Ava. Stroller rides have now become enjoyable for me, as well as the kids!

My daughter, Ashley laughed at me when we had lunch and I was telling her about it. She said, "I'm sure I'll appreciated the design of this stroller when I have kids, but it seems too funny to see my Mom so excited about a stroller." Oh how times have changed!

24 Glourious Hours Together

George and I went to Chicago over Labor Day weekend for our FIRST night away from the kids since I was pregnant for Ava. We stayed at the Sheraton Towers overlooking the Chicago River and we also had a view of the lake. We ate at George's favorite lunch spot and then shopped and walked all over, including the tourist trappings at Navy Pier. We relaxed in our hotel and then had drinks on NoMi's open air patio above the city and dinner inside. We discovered a new drink that we love, called a Pimm's Cup and we were able to get the recipe from our waiter. We slept in until nine the next morning and then had breakfast at a newly opened restaurant called the Yolk. It was truly a wonderful time with my best friend George. A big thanks to Ashley Kalman for watching the kids and giving me peace of mind.

Ava's first guest sleepover

Ava had Cooper spend the night a couple of weeks ago at our house and it was too cute for words on how well they played together and really showed cooperation in their interaction. Ava was so excited and has talked about it almost everyday since then. There were so many precious moments but two that stand out are as follows: (Remember, Cooper is three and Ava is two)

I was putting Ava's hair up in a ponytail in the morning and she walked over to Cooper and he said,
"Ava! You look at least 3 or 4 and more beautiful than ever" How ADORABLE!!!!!


Cooper and Ava were riding bikes on the back patio and Ava spotted a spider.

Ava: Cooper, there's a spider....get it Cooper.
Cooper: You get it Ava.
Ava: (Takes shoe off to kill it but chickens out) Get it Cooper!
Cooper: (Takes Shoe off to kill spider but is tentative)
Ava: She keeps shouting..."Get it Cooper, Get it"
Cooper: "I'm trying Ava, but I'm a little afraid"

In the end, Cooper killed the spider for Ava. Very courageous of him.

Twin Update at 7 months

Jovi and Finn will be 7 months on Monday and they are both growing by leaps and bounds and learning new stuff every week. Finn now has two teeth but Jovi is still just gums. Jovi is sitting up very well and plays while Finn is pretty wobbly and falls over. They are both scooting around the living room and could both crawl very soon. Then the fun will begin!! I will need to get some rocket shoes to keep up with all three children. Finn has a smile that is big and wide and lights up the room. Jovi is a little more reserved, but when she smiles with her cute little dimple, it warms my heart. They are both eating lots of baby food and still going through 10 to 12 bottles a day. I will rejoice when we can all sit down at the dinner table together. Jovi and Finn have now "discovered" each other and are happy to see one another. When we sit them down at opposite ends of the room, they roll and scoot to be next to each other. Sooo Cute to watch them in action.

Finn in his Fedora

Thanks to Paul and Sherry for such a cute hat!!

Family pictures with just the kids

Our attempt at Family Pictures

The twins turned 6 months old a couple of weeks ago so we attempted to take family pictures on a Saturday morning. We never got the perfect picture and George and I ended up mad at each other and frustrated, but here is the best out of the gazillon that we took.

Our backyard gardens

Blissful and Peaceful!

Our Three babies at bedtime

Adorable, Beautiful, and oh so sweet!

My Mothers Arms

I was getting ready to go out and my arms caught my attention in the mirror. I thought to myself...ARRGH I have my Mother's arms!!! Later that night as I fed and rocked my own babies, I thought about my arms again and how I didn't like the way they looked, and then I realized my mistake. I always loved my Mother's arms. Those arms rocked me for many years as a baby and then way beyond the age of when a child should be rocked. My mother ignored any criticism in this area, as she knew that this time would end all too soon. I was her last child at home. Those arms cooked me breakfast every morning before school and helped me with homework at night. Those arms tucked me in at night and held me when my heart was broken. Those arms french braided my hair for homecoming week and drove me to all my social activities and sleepovers. Those arms had strength to bear all the sacrifice and work to raise four daughters and yet were soft enough to be able find comfort and solace within. I hope someday that my children will also come to love my arms as well.

Ashley's Birthday

Ashley's birthday is the 10th of August but we celebrated with her on August 7th because she was leaving for vacation. First we met her at Soho for drinks and then on to Bonefish for dinner. Good times!!! Still can't believe I'm the Mother of a 24 year old.

Ava's First Prayer

We have been saying prayers with Ava at night before bedtime and we have purposely made them very simple so she can grasp the idea of praying and being thankful. One night I asked her if she wanted to pray and she said "yes". She closed her eyes and started to giggle and then said her prayer with great sincerity. It went like this...Dear God...thank you for Mommy and Daddy....(big pause) and Moose!! Moose is her stuffed animal that sleeps with her every night and who she regards with great esteem. She talks to her Moose daily and Moose comforts her when she is upset. What a sweet and tender moment.

Ava is Potty Trained!!!

Ava is Potty trained-Enough said! Very happy to have one less diaper to change. However, as my friend Kim pointed out, now I have the task of finding a restroom in public places. We have been taking her potty chair with us and so far it has worked out. She is afraid of public bathrooms because of all the noise and enclosed stalls. Oh well... just another hurdle to overcome.

Update on the Twins

July 11th marked the first time for cereal for the twins and Jovi rolled over. Finn waited until July 16th to roll over but then outdid himself by doing it over and over again. They are now both rolling Everywhere and frequently get themselves across the room within minutes. They are both showing signs of wanting to crawl and Finn has some red knees from trying to scoot himself to get into things he shouldn't reach yet. They are now spending time in their walkers and in their exer-saucer. Jovi loves all her veggies and fruit and Finn has proven to be somewhat of a picky eater. He may have a tough time in this household since our motto is... you eat what is served. The twins adore Ava and they are frequently entertained by her antics. Jovi and Finn now notice each other and reach out for each other and hold hands. It is SO ADORABLE! I need to get it on video. Our house is busy but blessed!

Our Staycation Vacation

This year we decided not to undertake the task of taking two babies and a toddler on a far away vacation, so we decided to stay local and take day trips with Ava. Our activities included Ava's first movie, Toy Story 3, which she informed us afterward, as we were having ice cream that she didn't like it. George and I loved it. We also had a day at the Ft. Wayne Zoo and a day at the Merriville Deep Rivers Water Park. Loved the water park and plan on going again next summer with all three of the kids. Also had a date night with George and ate at the new Temper Grill. Date was great, food quality was below average and over priced. Ended our week vacation with a cookout at Terry and Stacy's, who also have TWINS! See above picture of all of us

July 4th

Cookout and giant slip and slide at Kim and Brad's for the 4th. Ava went down the slide several times by herself!! ( see Ava slide in video. Start at 1 minute and 30 seconds into video to 1 minute 50 seconds) Good times with old friends and new.

July 4th weekend

Cookouts with friends and great weather was on the agenda. Had a fabulous meal at Kim and Randy's and enjoyed the cocktails and conversation. Love you Kimmie

Happy Father's Day!!

As is tradition, George went fishing with his Dad on Father's Day on Lake Michigan and they both caught their limit of perch. George came home with about 50 filet's of yummy lake perch. We had a good evening with the kids and I made a pasta dish similar to what the Vine serves. Very easy and a good meal that will be repeated. We then took some pictures after dinner and it was difficult to get all three kids looking at the camera, let alone to smile. This is the best out of 20.

Spontaneous outing with Ava

I love when we go on a Spontaneous outing! Friday, George took off most of the day and we went to Michigan city for a little shopping, then to the Brentwood Tavern for lunch on the patio overlooking the marina and then to New Buffalo beach with Ava. (The twins were with a sitter-next year they will be able to enjoy the day trips) What a beautiful day and Ava had as much fun as we did!

Note: No pictures of George and I at the beach will be posted until we lose our baby weight.

Vintage 1964

I was browsing at a kids resale shop last week and came across a Fisher Price toy from my childhood. However, the toy was a little pricey for a resale item and I asked the owner why it was so much more money. She replied that the toy was "vintage" and therefore worth more. I liked her answer because when I think I'm getting too old or feeling a little frumpy....I'm not old, I'm "Vintage" and therefore worth more! (Not sure when Vintage turns to Antique)

Storytime at the Schmidt's

George and I read to Ava on a regular basis, so we have now included Jovi and Finn in our reading time, when their nighttime routine allows. Hopefully they will come to love books as much as their big sister.

May 22nd- Six year wedding anniversary

"Their journey led them to love...which led to marriage....which led to parenthood...which led me to wonder if one lifetime was long enough to share with this man I love to love"

We had a day and evening together without the kids and ate at one of our favorite restaurants, Timothy's (near New Buffalo) What a great day to spend together!!!

Wake me up when it's my turn to open presents

This birthday party is boring me-I'm ready to go fishing

Oldest Daughter feeding youngest daughter

Ava's Birthday Party with Family

Ava continued to celebrate her birthday through the weekend and topped it off with a small immediate family gathering where we had one of her favorite meals...New York strip, hashbrown casserole, and corn on the cob. I had ordered her a cake with an owl on it since she is crazy about owls. She has two Owl pillows ( one from Ashley), three stuffed Owls (from Grandma and Grandpa) and two Owl pins (from my sister Jan). She is still asking for Owl cake and it's been two weeks since her birthday. I think Ava had a pretty good birthday week.

Ava's Curious George Birthday Party

Ava had her first kids party the day after her Birthday this year and I themed it as a Curious George party because that is the one TV show we let her watch in the morning and she loves it!! She had Curious George plates, napkins, cups, goodie bags, bubbles, and balloons. It turned out to be a beautiful day so we had it outside and the kids played and ate and played some more. It was a fun afternoon for her and great to see all the kids play together so well.