You just never know. . .

We took Amber and Tylor to their visit and got a call on our cell phone. The new placement for Austin didn't work out. He wasn't there 5 hours!!! So we have him back - again - already. So much for getting things cleaned up and organized. I don't have a clue what happened other than she said he wasn't working out. So now I'll have him over the weekend - I'm pretty sure of that. With no one else here to entertain him -

He came back just as non-chalantly as he left. I took his hand, he came in and got the soda off of the back of the counter, drank all of that as I chased him around the kitchen, I got him out of there, closed the gate and all has been as usual - right down to bedtime. I really wonder what happened. That is probably something that I will never know.

Just goes to show you - your plans are meant to vary. The Lord wants him here for some reason. It's not my job to question Him - just do my best for as long as He has decided that he will be here.

Tomorrow will be a very hard day for me. Even kids leaving, Austin staying, a Shareholders meeting, and Jeremy's Birthday. It is so hard to believe that 34 years ago - at this time - my Sister and I were timing Labor pains. It seems so much like yesterday. We were waiting for Mom to get off work so that she could drive me to the hospital. I was so excited!! I couldn't wait to hold my baby. Back then of course we had to wait and see whether the baby was boy or girl. And I had my baby boy. THe prettiest baby in the Nursery. Oh so long ago, and yet so easily remembered.

2 Left

It's only noon today and already two of our babies are gone. It's already to quiet. They will all be gone by tomorrow evening but the two youngest went today. Austin was the suprise. One of the FP's in another county had a child leave and gamely volunteered to "try" taking him. He is definately a challenge. And a very high-energy challenge at that. He finally had made contact with me (it took several days) and now to move him was hard. But I know LeAnne and she is great!! She'll have him eating out of her hands in no time. She is a younger and more energetic woman than I (that's not hard to be tho') so he will do wonderfully there. I am very happy about this placement.

There was an opening for Lonnie to be placed with his 2 brothers, closer to where Mom and Dad live, so they don't have to put themselves out to visit. So, over protests, they have all been moved to the same placement. The one good thing is that they will at least be together. His brothers are just a cute as he is. I got pictures of his "home-leaving". I'm sad about him - I had him for 5 months. But that's about my limit - after 6 - I'm to attached and have a much harder time looking at the bright side and letting them go.

The older two went on their water park adventure with their prospective future long term fp's and they just loved them. I asked them on Monday if they would rather have them for parents than us and they didn't even think before they both said "yes". Amber actually realized what they said and looked a little embarrassed afterwards and I laughed with her - so she would know that's it's ok. I understand. It will definately take all day to get their stuff together - they are normal kids and have it all over the place. So anyway, they will be moving tomorrow evening and we will have none.

I will have a full week to get my foot healed, my shoulder back in place (my replacement tenz machine finally arived), find all the things that Austin moved (hid), and get all washed and cleaned up before we go on vacation. So even without kids - I'll be busy.

Keith is feeling bad - he has some sort of recurring digestive virus or something. In true Keith fashion - he won't call the Doctor. So we just have to watch him laying in the recliner looking sick and sad. LOL

I'm looking forward to seeing my babies in San Diego. It makes it all worthwhile. So click on the "comments" button below and let me know what you are doing!!

Small Steps, Little Wonders

I am learning about Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ADS), I think. Weirdly enough the May 15th issue of Time, which arrived yesterday, has a huge write up on the subject. Now, I'm aware that Time only ever reports the upside of any subject so I'm reading on this with a grain of salt - BUT - Austin got his cup off of the cart - got a drink while wandering into the playroom - AND THEN CAME IN AND PUT IT BACK!!. Not that this is a huge thing - but in our life of constant turmoil with him - it is hope. And it means that he isn't THAT slow to learn. I personally feel as tho' this is a good sign for him. He is now laying on the floor behind me entertaining HIMSELF with 2 trucks, complete with engine noise and uh-oh's when they crash together!!! When we can't find anything he "wants" to do = he is a terror. He runs and grabs and runs and spills and runs and screams (while hitting himself in the head with his fists) and runs and runs and runs. I'm slowly learning his triggers and how to deal with him. He also is responding well to one-word directions. UP, COME, SIT. So, maybe I will be able to manage another 10 days with him. He is a large, strong 40 lb 2.5 year old. Maybe I should get combat pay :)

Lonnie is teething. He is miserable, therefore we all hurt. There is no TV show or conversation that is not punctuated with his whining. He had stopped it for awhile, but it's back - in triplicate~~

The older two have gone on a field trip to the Water Park. They were so excited to go that I don't think either one of them slept a wink last night. Amber was wanting to wake Tylor at 6 this morning and was caught 3 times trying to sneak in to do so. I finally told her if she tried again, she wasn't going. She decided to get herself dressed and take care of her hygenic stuff instead. So that little problem was solved. Tylor was up at 7 anyhow. It's not like he overslept. He did have a hard time getting to sleep - excitement - and Austin banging his head and mumbo-jumboing until almost 11 before he finally conked out.

I'm hobbling in my "boot" but my foot is feeling so much better!!
I have to have a shoe on the other foot or I'm seriously off balance. I hate to show my horribly fat legs. It seems like only years ago that I had good looking legs - time does horrible things.
If it's not where the Dr. wants it by Tuesday, he is talking a cast - oh, no,no,no. This monstrosity is hot enough. It is 9:30 AM and already 88 in the shade on the screen room (with a breeze). I can't even imagine a cast!!! :( :( :( :-(

Keith's friend Tom, who was in the Navy with him isn't doing well. He was diagnosed with some type of very fast-growing cancer about 2 weeks ago. Prognosis is about 6 weeks left. Family has arrived, Hospice is involved. Tom has decided to forgo any treatment that will make his remaining days miserable. My heart goes out to the entire family but most especially Nancy, who has been married to him for many, many years, raised 4 children with him and will be so very lost without him. I am so glad that she has her faith in the Lord to see her thru as well as the love and dedication of her family and friends.

It is so true (I had to learn it) that our children grow and start a life seperate from ours and could it be because they will have to carry forth when we are gone? They ways of God are innumerable and his life plan for each of us remains a mystery to me. Just as - why did Jeremy get taken just as I was getting things straightened out in our lives? Why has the Lord seen to torture me all of these years with the uncertainty? It's getting closer to his birthday and I get more and more morbid as this time comes each year. This year he is 34 and has been lost for almost 20. I pray daily for the strength to keep praying.

Also, 2 days ago was my Dad's 73 (I think) birthday. I tried calling both his home and cell numbers and didn't get an answer on either one. I left messages - but you can tell that we are really close - huh-. Anyhow, Happy Birthday Dad!!!

Keith's Mom loved (or said she did) her coffee cup with our picture on it. It even made it for Mother's day! I haven't had a Mother for so long - I forget to do those kind of things!!

And if you read the MONEY PIT you will see how well S'te is dealing with Rod being gone for so long - and Kiah's triumph!! He's such a smart boy - (when he's sleeping LOL).

I guess this is enough for today. More when something new happens!!

2 Days?

Has it only been 2 days? My foot feels like it's been 2 weeks. And a busy one too. Austin is really a pretty good boy. As long as you leave nothing in his reach, all the doors closed, and the sliders locked (it didn't take long for him to figure out how to open them), the baby's bottle put up, and check behind the big kids everytime they go out the door of the screen room. I've finally just locked the those doors and if they want in - they have to come to the front door and go thru the house. It only took once for the neighbor 3 houses away bringing him home that I figured out he is an escape artist.

Keith and I were "Panel Foster Parents" for the graduating MAPP class last night. The Judge for Indian River County was also there. I learned a bunch listening to his answers to the prospective fp's there. The group was mixed between foster and adoption so there were lots of different types of questions. The one that really astounded me was "Why would it take up to a year to get a 9-13 year old girl in good health to adopt. And we don't want to go the foster route, we want to adopt right away". The answer is soooooo simple. The ones that are really adoptable are the children of any age that are in good health. Family members and foster parents who've already had them for a year or two adopt them. Come on!! The children that are with large sibling groups or the children that will never leave home are the ones we are begging people to adopt. http://www.chsfl.org/adoptiondisp.php?divID=all This is a site to look at if you are willing to adopt a sibling group or older children. OKay off of my soapbox again! :)

We are winding down for the summer. We have a placement for Lonnie, a possible for Amber and Tylor, and we don't know anything yet about Austin. Placement told the PI that we would keep him until the end of the month. Placement asked us if we could help out with him for a few days. Same worker ~ different spin. It's ok - we know the Lord will help UFF out!!

Keith is planning an addition to our home. He wants to put an additional 10' on our screen room - he says it's for the space - I think he just wants to make sure they don't put another home on the area that the Village told us was our "oversized lot" that we chose because it was one of 2 "oversized lots" left. But I can live with his version. We will then have a screen porch almost as wide as our home and an additional carport. Lots of room for us two. :)

So with laundry, panels, babysitters, oh, and did I tell you - my foot is broke. Dr. says stay off of it and he will see me again on Friday to see if I need an ortho consult. LARGE HAHAHAHAHA With Austin's circles and the kid's school winding down I've been busier than a cat covering crap - and my house is a wreck, the pills make me want to sleep so I'm tired, Papa is still not back up to par, and other than that - Life is wonderful. I have the dream of seeing my beautiful daughter and wonderful grandchildren to sustain me for the next couple of weeks!!!! This is Austin watching Baby Einstein's Baby Neptune. I put the movie in the DVD out of desperation and he LOVES it. I can hear him laughing and talking back to it - so I know he is enjoying it. Lonnie is still trying to teethe- or something - and has been whinier and clingier than usual - and there he goes again!!
So - see ya later.

New Visitor

We have a new visitor at our house. He will only be staying for a day or two. He is a sweet little 2-year old that is in constant motion and totally non-verbal. As always - he came to us with no paperwork of any value - and no medication of any kind - so my initial guess is that he is one of God's special children. I closed all the doors and up my gates. He runs the "fence line" about every 5 minutes - I suppose he is looking for an escape hatch. He slept very well last night - was very easy to put to bed once I figured out that he still takes a bottle. I gave him a 4 oz and he went right to sleep - slept until 8 this morning. He pretty much stays away from the baby - which is good - but we watch constantly anyhow. He definately knows what he wants and I'm watching him throw a tantrum because Papa wouldn't give him soda. Well - he is over it now.

Mother's Day wasn't the exciting day it is supposed to be. Papa was sick (has been since Friday) so he still wasn't getting out of bed, the kids were totally bored, and my foot is the size of a football. So I gamely stuffed my toes into a sandal and we went to Sunday School and Church. Afterwards, we went to Sonny's BBQ. We've driven by it dozens of times, I love anything BBQ and Keith doesn't like the place. So since he wasn't with us, we went. Tylor and Amber don't like anything with "sauce" on it. So they wound up with $4 hot dogs & fries but I had the best bbq chickenthat I've ever had (that wasn't homemade) with baked beans, baked sweet potato and garlic bread. It was great and I made a total pig (I'm past the piglett stage) out of myself and ate most all of it. The kids did unbend to try a little of the chicken that didn't have any sauce on it, and Tylor ate a piece of the garlic bread. He suggested that "next time" I get the cornbread 'cause he likes it better. We then came home and I remembered the tickets for the Mother's Day lunch that the Social Club put on at the clubhouse. But I was completely done walking. My foot was not only football size but is turning colors and THROBBING. So I chalked it up to my old-timers CRS and got in the recliner and propped my foot up. About 3:30 one of the Ladies - actually the one with a psuedo-halo knocked at my door with a tray - full of the most wonderful goodies. Now I didn't have to fix dinner either. There was Chicken Salad on Croisant, green salad, pudding in a cloud, and some of the greatest little chocolate sticks I've ever eaten.

Then I talked to my little girl. She is so lonesome without her hubby. Her voice sounded so tired and wo-be-gone. I knew exactly what the problem was and I feel for her. I remember all the years alone thru the holidays. Of course, I was married, he wasn't deployed, I was just alone. We chatted for quite awhile and her voice sounded more chipper when we hung up. I reminded her that it is only a couple of weeks before we would be back out there - and Rod will be home in just over 2 weeks from when we leave. Of course, our presence isn't nearly as fulfilling as her wonderful hubby - but it's the best we can do :-)

The hot dog must not have agreed with Amber - I noticed a towel laid out on the carpet in her room - I lifted the towel - yuk!! I sure do wish she would've told me before it all soaked into it. So now that both little ones are down for a morning nap - I guess I will take my football foot and get down on my knees and clean up second-hand hot dog.

Better luck to all of you!!!!!

Oh, and Bless Miss Sallie at church, she found a t-shirt that was dropped after the Gibbs Family Gospel on Friday - When I got home I found that the bag that I asked Tylor to carry for me - only had 1 t-shirt in it - of course it was his. He says he didn't notice dropping anything out of the bag while he was "swinging it around" (his words). So thanks to Miss Sallie - I didn't totally waste $10.

More later,
Amah

Hobble-A-Long

I've done it again!! And I don't even know for sure just what I did. As usual - I don't remember bumping, hitting, twisting or anything. And it isn't my ankle - it's from my little toe up to my middle toe and across the top to my ankle. It hurts like the dickens and I'm not having any fun trying to walk. I did it yesterday about 4. I know that because 1) the kids were in school and the baby was asleep so I 2) decided that I had time for a short power nap (these meds make me sleepy). Anyhow the phone rang and I 3) looked at the clock and realized that Papa had gone to meet the bus and 4) someone needed to answer it. I jumped off of the couch and promptly landed on my well-padded derriere. I let out a holler that woke the baby up and was still sitting there when Papa and the older kids got home a few minutes later!! Well, last night was also the Gibbs Family Southern Gospel presentation at Church - so Papa got out my crutches - from the last time I couldn't remember how I hurt myself - and we went. Papa had a lot of fun telling people that I fell off of the couch - and he has paid for it dearly today - he has the flu. A really good dose of it. He has been ill ALL DAY - which means he laid in bed and I hobbled around to do the bare necessities for the kids. Thank the Lord it is Saturday and the older kids are such good ones!!! They fetched and carried for me - but then about noon (Papa in bed and I'm still in a nightshirt) a GAL shows up unannounced!! Said that DCF gave her an incorrect phone number and she hadn't been able to contact us to set up an appointment. So we looked like a real happy family (add to all of the above that Vinci brought all of the baby stuff back yesterday afternoon and I still have it stacked in the living room) as well as organized and effectual. I'm not sure what the woman must be thinking but I do hope to get a chance to make a better impression.

We've not done much else around here. I just go in circles every day and get nothing done. Still trying to diet (I've only gained 5 lbs on this last one) and about to totally give up and go to Mexico for that belly banding thing. I read with the big kids for about 20 minutes each per day and then I fix dinner, we get baths and it's bedtime. Today was supposed to be a swimming date - but with Papa sick, Tylor coughing, and me hobbling - it just didn't seem like a really good idea~~ Tomorrow we are supposed to go to a Mother's Day Lunch. Bought tickets in advance and everything. Enough for today Hope all is well with everyone and HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO ALL OF THE MOTHERS THAT READ THIS. You know who you are :-)

Diane

Wife to Keith, Mom to S'te (28), Amah-Mama to "Lonnie (5 mo), Amber (8),& Tyler (7)"

The new "crawler" at our house

Click for Video

Video Description

Lonnie is only a few days beyond 6 months. He is showing us a new way to "motate". I mentioned yesterday his odd way of moving from place to place. Below is a picture of the pyrimid he usually starts with. I couldn't catch it in the video - but it is sure cute!!

It's already Sunday

We had a kicked back day yesterday. During the morning the 3 older kids "helped" Papa by riding their bikes thru the lawn while he was trying to put the brick borders in for me. I took the idea from both S'te at http://elmoresandiego.blogspot.com/ and Sharen at http://knucklesknoll.blogspot.com/ but not nearly as ambitious. Not only that, I was afraid that if we went more than 1 block high the hurricanes would blow anything not tied down thru the windows of our house ~~ So we shopped and found some that I liked enough to do our yard.

Then we had lunch and went swimming. Now, those of you with kids are well aware that there is NOTHING kicked back about going to the pool with 5 kids. The older 2 were just fine but the 3 year old whined constantly. No one would play with him, there's nothing to do, I can't do that, I want, I think I'm hungry, I think I'm getting thirsty, etc - on and on and on. Then we have the 2 babies - one walking - so he can't be left out of arms reach for a minute and the other wanting a nap!! By the time I finished blowing up all the swimmies, rings, and baby floatie, I was exhausted!!! I took snacks and water for all - but they didn't want that (there were others that had chips and sodas at the next table) and with all the longing, forlorn gazes dragging the ground they were (ordered) requested back into the pool or we were going home. That lasted about 5 seconds - so we packed it all up and headed for the house - complaining all the way!! Good thing Papa is hard of hearing and I am stubborn. They then played inside for the rest of the day (all 2 hours) until dinner. It was just so darn hot out there even the kids stayed inside!!

My night consisted of Lonnie waking up at 10:45 and staying that way in 15 minute increments until about 5. Yes - that is am also, S'te. So I did get some sleep. Papa got up with the kids and I wandered out about 9:30. I have an hour to get everyone ready for church!!! In a rush I get all of their clothes out, start the diaper bag and announce that I'm headed for the shower (between the chlorine and yard sweat yesterday, I really should've done it last night - I was just to tired!). NO WATER. The water didn't reappear until almost 11 so - no church. I put the church clothes away and got play clothes out for the kids - they played outside until noon - then it got to hot. So now we are in for an all day in the house with "nothing to do". I'm tired, got a headache, and they are all bored and argueing. So much for Sunday!!

We spent most of the evening watching and chuckling (out and out laugh sounds harsh) as Lonnie trys to crawl. He has this spider-man thing going. He gets on all fours but it is hands and feet - and flops in the direction he wants to go. He will get on his hands and knees and rock back and forth while he is considering his direction and once he makes up his mind - up goes the butt and down goes the head - and flop he is that much closer to where he wanted to be. I got a short clip but don't know how to add it to this. I've seen it on other blogs but haven't found the key yet. But when I do.........

If anything more comes up - I'll let ya'll know but at this point I may wind up in the looney bin before dark LOL See ya!

Dinner

What do you fix when you don't know what anyone eats? I was going to fry a chicken, but I (in my infinite hurry) bought a roaster instead of a fryer. And I do know what a fryer is~~ So I marinated the said roaster in italian seasonings and put some sweet potatoes in the oven with it. I know that one child likes broccoli and another likes carrots - so I sauteed a mix of these with some summer squash and zuchini. I thought it all came out tasting pretty good. So did the 3 and 1 year old boys that we are babysitting for 4 days, but the 2 older ones just picked at it. Tyler said it was going to make him throw up if he had to eat anything but the chicken. He had his head held up with both hands and Amber just kind of pushed around on her plate. I tried bribing with chocolate ice cream - it worked really well with Adam (3). He ate all of his and the ice cream and asked for more (ice cream). Riley (1) came with baby food because he doesn't really like "people food" yet. He ate all of his and a jar of green beans with rice. Papa ate a large plateful and the older kids finally decided they would rather go to bed so they wouldn't have to eat anything.

I think they had a rather over-active day (for us). They had a visit yesterday so they were all wound up last night and didn't sleep well. We had to go thru all the "why's" and how long are we staying questions - again. It is so hard to try to explain - and they already knew the answers - they just didn't want to go to bed so it was really late - almost 10 before they finally sort of settled down. I don't know exactly when they went to sleep - I was having a bad spell of my own. I didn't even go with them for their visit, Papa took them. So anyway, I'd taken the meds that the Dr gave me last night and they make me sleepy and grumpy all day the next day - I try not to take them often - so Papa took them to the pool after school. So by the time they got home from school at 4:20 - got their snack - got changed - went to the pool - did a little homework while the food cooled - we didn't eat until almost 7. Our dinnertime is usually around 6 - if not shortly before. So hopefully this is why they were so tired.

By 8, Tyler (who was not the least bit tired) was sound asleep but Amber couldn't sleep. Of course when I checked on her the first time - she was up at her dresser watching herself make faces in the mirror. I explained that she couldn't sleep standing up so she got back in bed. Then she needed water. Then she needed the bathroom. Then she wanted her door open a little more. The next time it was quiet and I checked she was sitting up in bed playing with her fingers. She said she just couldn't go to sleep. I explained that she couldn't go to sleep while she was sitting up. It was best to lay down when trying to doze off. She wanted to know what doze meant and got me into conversation. That worked for a few minutes - but not for long. I woke up and quit talking to her. She was asleep about 3 minutes after she finally laid down. Next was the 3 year old. He brought all the little chairs and set them up around his bed. Tyler was sleeping so soundly that he didn't even wiggle when I turned the light on to take all the toys away from the bed. The next time I heard movement - Adam had taken his pj's off and was under his pillow and blanket playing "tent". I redressed him and he said he does not like me. OK, fine, lay down and go to sleep. Meanwhile, WB went to sleep on the floor about 6 and hasn't woke yet. Will he sleep all night?

I gave up on Tuesday and started going back to the Chiropractor. By mid-afternoon none of the joints or bones in my body want to cooperate with me. They just hurt, and my feet burn. Even just sitting with them put up - they just burn. And when I try walking on them it is even worse. I also had the echo done that Dr. Lisa has been harping about. No word on that yet - so it must've been ok. Nothing earthshattering or I would've heard something by now. I do go back to the Chiro tomorrow morning so I will be able to hold my head straight up. That's always a plus.

Papa got in touch with an attorney in CA and we will see her while we are out there. I need for this to be over so I can at least get done with the "I-don't-want-to-touch-your-shoulder" syndrome that the Dr.'s have. Then maybe with the whole picture - we can find out what the hell is wrong. I'm so tired of having a great day, 3 bad days, a good day, 2 bad days, and then maybe another great day. And I hate the anti-whatevers that I am taking to get that one great day out of the week or so. I'm tired of being tired. And I know it isn't the kids - without them I wouldn't even function. They give me a reason to get around as much as I do. And I love having them (however it probably sounds on this). They need safety and help. I have been so blessed in this latter part of my life that I feel strongly about needing to share some of the blessings that I have had bestowed on me with those less fortunate. And who could possibly be more needy than these poor children whose parents aren't able to care for them during special times of their lives. I pray daily that these parents will come to realize what they are inflicting on the unsuspecting and innocent lives of thier children.

My meds are kicking in and I'm becoming morose so I'll close for now. Keep the comments coming - I live for them!! ~~

School Morning

I'm not used to this!!! Get up in time for school!!! And be dressed and ready to take them to the bus!!! I've had to change my housework-in-my-nightshirt routine a bit. The kids are smiling and ready for school before I have the sleep out of my eyes or my teeth brushed!!

The first day of school went really well. Both kids got to return to their former classrooms, teachers, and friends. They feel right at home. I'm happy for them.

We had another fiasco of a Shareholder's meeting last night. Again, I wasn't able to ask my question before our erstwhile President started jabbering at me about unrelated things and finally called me enough names that one of the other shareholders jumped up and defended me. I was absolutely flabberghasted. He has been mean, rude, demeaning, arrogant and many other things before - even calling me thick-headed and other stuff - but nothing like last night. I am rather hurt that another woman had to jump up instead of my husband, who just sat there, but I'm sure I'll get over it. I just will stay aware that coming to my defense is not something that he will do. No matter what. I even had calls from other shareholders that were at the meeting sharing thier disgust with what our President did. I will defend my r ight to make an UNINTERRUPTED statement to the ends of this earth. Every other shareholder that had statements, questions, and even rude pointed things to say were given thier time. I have the feeling that the items I choose to speak on are sore subjects with him - why? Why is he so defensive and rude when I have something to say? I guess we will never know - I'm sure he won't tell me.

So, today isn't one of my better days - I'm tired, totally pissed, and disenchanted. Hopefully tomorrow will be better!!

Time Flies

Boy, time does fly "when you are having fun". It seems like months ago since I got home from San Diego instead of just over a week. I was putting the baby down for his nap the other day when I looked out the back window and saw the police putting up yellow crime scene tape!! There had been a stabbing in one of the FEMA homes behind me. It took until yesterday for me to find out the "dirt" behind it. This Village is always full of rumors but it is sure hard to find a truthful story!! No different from any other neighborhood. The government asked us to let them place these homes in our Village for the families displaced by Francis and Jeanne almost 2 years ago. Needless to say, there are still families living in them - but not anyone who is working, has an income, or could afford to live elsewhere. Only those who cannot find or afford regular housing. The families left in our FEMA homes leave much to be desired. Anyhow, the people were the stabbee's not the stabber's. Can't evict them for that~~ Last of that-got it off of my chest.

My only "friend" here in the Village is packing up and getting ready to go home to her summer residence. Keith is making plans and reservations for our summer "escape". Due to the skyrocketing fuel prices, the RV is staying here for most of the summer. We hope to be in SD for several weeks and squeeze a visit to Canyonville and Coos Bay in. He is looking at the first week of July for the Oregon trip. I am anxiously waiting to see what he decides. I know that I will be in SD for a medical appointment on June 6th - so that is what I know. My new teeth are a pain. Actually, I'm told that I was real lucky as I've only had to do a bit of grinding on them - but they have to rub a sore spot before I can figure out just where to grind - then they hurt to try to chew anything with. I'll get it figured out - sooner or later - it'll be good.

Life is hot here - we had a "cold front" come thru the other night - it got down to 72 at night. It has been in the 90's during the day and high 70's at night with a humidity level in the 70 & 80's.

I do all my outside work before 10 am and sit around the house for the rest of the time. But I did get to the pool on Wednesday - first time this year. And only then because the kids wanted to go so badly. Maybe I'll take them up after school today?????

Other than that - it's boring, boring, boring. How's it with you?

Kiah and the Girls

Easter 001
Originally uploaded by Amah.

We started Easter out with a bang. S'te got ALL of her kids dressed and ready to go before taking the older ones to prepare for their Presentation at the Assembly of God Easter Egg Hunt. I happily volunteered to take the younger ones with me a bit later so that they wouldn't be in the way. I got my baby dressed and finally found something totally inappropriate (but it fit) to wear and we tried to be on our way. S'te had the keys!! All of them!! Keith had the keys for the rental car - but we wouldn't all fit. S'te had the extra keys to ALL the cars in her purse!!! So, Rod had to fly (he did make record time) back and pick them up so that we could all go. They looked so cute in the Easter finery. The older kids were all in their Action Unies since they were performing so no Easter finery for them. I personally think they were just as happy with that, tho'.

So we made it to the presentation in plenty of time - it was wonderful watching all five participate in the show. I was so proud that tears came to my eyes. And I'm not being dramatic either (that's Destini and Sharen's jobs) I am really extremely proud of all of them. I do hope that they all continue to do wo well. We were there for the continued unbelievable greed of parents of toddlers when it comes to plastic eggs!! I am amazed every time I see a parent carrying a child and picking up the eggs for them - or scooping them up so no other babies can get to them. It's supposed to be a fun thing for them. Not a knock-down-drag-out to see who can be the greediest. I kinda expect it from the preschool kids themselves - but the parents should know better. We are supposed to be celebrating the Rising of Jesus -not who can show the most greed the fastest. OK - off of my soap-box and on with my story.

We stopped by the Legion Post 460 for a truly nice breakfast and visited with a few old friends that we hadn't seen in a long while and then headed back home (to S'te & Rod's) to pack for our return to Vero. Lonnie picked this night to stay up all night with his new teeth that haven't showed up yet. We had to be on the road at 4 am and he finally crashed about 2:30 or so. I did get up and got ready to go in time. We got to the airport in plenty of time for our 5:45 boarding time to find that the plane had been delayed an hour - I could've slept longer!!!!!! But we had plenty of time for our connection in Chicago and were on our way.

There were no further delays or problems and we arrived home Monday evening as planned, called all the people we know to let them know we were back and are trying still to get back to EST. Lonnie stayed up until 11 last night and I am still sleeping until 9 or so. I have to get straightened out before it's time to return to San Diego in June. Our plans are to try to fly on either the 2nd or 3rd. Depends on the schedules - Papa will do well - he always does.

Lonnie is up - ready for lunch -

Comment and tell me about your Easter. I miss hearing from people.

S'te's flower bed

S'te's flower bed
Originally uploaded by Amah.

Grandpa Doland would be very proud of her!! She dug, leveled, and placed all the block herself. None of the rest of us could get them quite right. She is really adamant about how she wants things done!! Rod ran the 'tiller and Papa babysat. We did the family thing between the house work and our "vacation".

last Saturday we went to TJ to see
Dr. Ruth. She pulled 2 teeth and took impressions for a partial. We stopped down at the cantina for Keith to have lunch and watch the touristas. It was a beautiful day and I really enjoyed it. The only bad part wes the way back. I wanted to walk back to the other courtyard since we hadn't been there in so long. The line was horrible. The walking line was clear back beyond where we used to get out of the cabs. Keith found a bus that ws almost empty and we got on for a buck each. So we got to sit instead of stand for the next 2 hours. Something must've happened for the busses to take so long. They are usually a lot quicker (and easier on the feet) than standing in line!! Then we went up by Sera Mesa and visited with friends there. We definately had a full day!!

I had to go back to get my partial on Thursday so we made the trek again!! We met our friend Earl at Dr. Ruth's and he and Keith had a chat while Dr. Ruth whittled on my new teeth. She takes great pride in getting things perfect so we don't have problems after we leave!! After aquiring the new rocks in my mouth we went for lunch, at the courtyard. Keith had his machaca favorites and I had a fabulous shrimp cocktail. It isn't like the ones in the US. It totally puts the US ones to shame!! So then we did some shopping and headed back to the bus station. After the last fiasco I didn't even mention walking across this time!! Anyhow, we got on the bus and sat our required 2 hours - the walking side was empty!!!! So after a spell of non-movement Keith decided that we could get in line. We were thru (walking) before the bus 2-busses-ahead got to the gate!!! So we walked again!! But this time we went out the other door and had to walk down the street and over the bridge to the lot for the car. We definately got several miles in this week!! By now my new rocks had caused some sore spots on my tongue and the areas where the teeth used to be were quite tender and I had a headache. So we came straight home so I could irritate the grandkids!! They had spent the day being quite the earth-movers. Look at the Money Pit Blog to see the difference. It is amazing!!! Both S'te and I have pics on Flickr also. You totally won't believe it!!

We have only today and tomorrow left before we have to trek back to the tropics. Don't know what is on the agenda but time here always seems to go by so quickly! I never get everything done that I planned and never get to see all the people that I want to see. Part of the problem is me - I don't drive while we are out here - I don't know where I am~~ and it is too far away from where I used to live for others to come out here - and I've come to accept that the world lives on - whether I'm involved in it or not !) Maybe when we get back in June I'll get braver about driving and get out to see people. We shall see.

The kids are presenting tomorrow for Easter at the Assembly of God Church on Phyllis Place. I am looking forward to watching the Middle Kids (Brayana, Destini, and Jaleel) perform. This will only be their 2nd or 3rd time total. I plan to record it and I will send dvd's to family (that is provided that I get the dvd to work).

So ya'll have a happy Easter and don't eat to many eggs ~~~

Easter Shoes

Easter Shoes
Originally uploaded by Amah.

WE went shopping. Here are easter shoes for the kids. We made 2 trips and hit 3 stores for this haul. It was so easy to shop for the babies and for the oldest 2. The middle girls and boy were the problem. Nothing was "quite right" for them. Brayana has extremely narrow feet and they are really hard to fit. Destini is the family drama queen and needed perfect and preferrably flashy, LaDaria just was indecisive. She liked them all. Tyrique got right to it and picked his out and was done. He didn't even go into the last 2 stores and stayed in the van and read. That was preferable to strolling into a store with Mom, Amah, 3 sisters and a brother!! Anyhow we "got 'er done"!! Happy Easter to all!!

Impressions

And this is what they think of us!! The truth comes out!!! We babysit for who-knows-how-long and here is the thanks we get!!! Aren't they adorable?? I laughed until tears rolled when they were unwrapped and presented. I didn't really know that I had "bed-ears" but I get bed everything-else so why not!! I really think the nose on Papa's is a little large - but -other-than-that ~~~ Kiah thinks it looks like him too!!

We are patiently (well sort of) waiting for someone to get up so we can head off to TJ for our ourdental appointment with Dr. Ruth, She called last night and has an opening for us. Saturdays are "first come, first serve" so we try to get there rather early. Walking TJ at 9 am isn't nearly as crowded as at 2 pm. I think I've only been there after dark about 3 times out of the hundreds of times we've actually been there. Kiah just got up so the rest should be close behind him.

So, I'll say goodbye for now!!

Babysitting

I'm just toooooooo old. This house is toooooo big. It takes an act of Congress and a week to hike from the living room to the kitchen. Even with my - no empty hands travel anywhere and always take a "haulback" I can't keep all the dishes, glasses, bottles, etc out of the living room. I take an "armful" with every trip. Most of the time with a baby or toddler or two - but I just can't seem to keep it picked up. And most of it is MINE!!! I get to the kitchen with 2 kids and a bottle, spoon, can of formula, etc and when I'm done I fix another cup of coffee or water and walk back to the living room to find the last one still there - I didn't take it with me!!! No wonder S'te stays so skinny!!! I've had to up my consumption of chocolate just to stay energized!!

I'm doing the grandmotherly thing and staying with the kids overnight so Rod and S'te can have an evening, night and day to themselves before Rod is deployed. I probably won't be back out here again before he leaves - so I figured this would be a good opportunity. I'm not sure the grandkids care much for it. They've been on a really tight rope - I can't deal well with 10 kids running loose and I don't know where any of them are - I have to know. I'm a total control freak I guess - I want them where they said they will be - or where I said they will be - and I will check on them!!!

Dr. Ruth - our TJ Dentist left us a message this morning and said she will make an appointment whenever we will be in SD - language barrier time - Keith called last Friday and told her we are here and need appointments :)

Other than that - my last post has a picture of the family. The kids are getting older, taller, and smarter by the day. Jaleel has drawn me several very artistic pictures. He is really a pretty good little artist. Brayana and LaDaria are getting really good on the keyboard, and as will never change - the drama is kept to a high level by Destini. Ty is playing lacrosse and lost his game last week - boooo - but has been practicing!! The lady on the other side of the fence called the police because the basketball keeps going into her yard!! I had a hard time with this one - the issue isn't loud cars, joyriding, drive-by shootings, vulgar music - but a BASKETBALL is annoying her. Papa said we should put up a tennis net on the top of the fence. See how she likes that. The ball won't bother her again :)LOL

S'te's new furniture is georgeous and looks really nice in her remodeled living room. She has worked very hard getting things straightened out and sorted out so that the kids don't have so much to tear apart all the time. She has really gotten rid of a bunch of "stuff". She also rearranged her library so that the teens can't hide in the corner on the video games anymore (yeah!) and the computer monitors can easily be seen from 3 different doors. No hiding for them!!! The "middle kids" have all rearranged their rooms, some with new furniture, and are growing up so fast - it's hard to believe that Brayana will actually be 10 this year!!! Does NOT seem possible.

They are watching a movie now, babies and toddlers are sleeping, and Ty is late returning from his friends. Rod and S'te aren't back home yet from their "trip" and I'm going to watch my soap. So all is will in San Diego. Hope all is well for you too!!

So we've had a really good visit and we really get to be close to everyone since we show up and cling on forever. They have a hard time getting rid of us once we get here!!!

Here they are!!

DSC02546a
Originally uploaded by Amah.

Here is finally a new picture of the kids. We didn't put our little one in it - actually - they were all ready for Church and we weren't. If I'd waited until we were all dressed - they would've been gone. So anyhow - here they are - Rod (29), S'te (28), Ty (15), LaDaria (14), Brayana (9.5), Destini (8), Jaleel (8), Makkiah (5), Angie (3), Ellie (18mo), Taniyah (15mo).

I made arrangements to call S'te when we landed so that she wouldn't have to keep circling while we waited for luggage. We called as planned, walked to the baggage area, got our 4 bags, walked to the door just in time to see her pull up. What great timing - and how fast she is!!! Actually, she had already made one circle! She was faster that we thought. We got loaded and the kids wanted to see PAPA's new baby. He was all excited with all the attention. He just squealed and gurgled all the way to Spring Valley. Then he reverted to his true form. S'te finally took out Tiny Tee's bouncer and he does like that. It gives him somehting to do and he does bounce alot. He didn't sleep well the first night. With the time change and plane ride and stuff. But the bouncy seat came out on the second day and I was concerned that he bounced so much he wouldn't sleep that night because his legs hurt :) - That worry didn't materialize and he slept just fine.

So, we are here and all is wonderful. S'te is cleaning and sorting, Rod is on the couch watching her, the kids are playing, the babies and Papa are napping - and I'm going to go help my girl now.

Later!!

Naked

I feel almost naked!! Our barfy baby is on his way to the Shelter - Bad Judge, Bad Judge, naughty parents, naughty parents, dirty word, dirty word!!!!! After the 3 toddlers leaving last week and now our barfy baby gone - we are down to 1. And in a few minutes I will be without e-mail for a day or two as I have to pack my laptop up to travel.

I was estatic to hear that Mak - our 5 year old delinquent (he got suspended from preschool today for being a bully) - is glad to hear that we are "almost on our way". I think he likes me. The last time I talked to Destini - our 7 (?) year old bully - I asked her what she remembered about me and her answer was " you're 51". Now that smarts!! I haven't had the courage to ask any of the others when they answer the phone :) But I know that next Christmas I'm gonna be the meanest Grandmother around (Ty says I'm called Amah 'cause I'm to old to be Grandma!) because not one of the children has written a thank you for the mega gift that I sent to them last year. As badly as I dislike the idea of kids sitting around in front of video games - I found a 'dance pad' that I thought they would enjoy. Only problem was - after I purchased it and had it drop shipped - it was for a ps??? and they didn't have one of those. It was the only type of box that they were missing - but they aren't now. Come to think of it - I guess there isn't anything else they need for gifts. Now that's the way to look at it!!! No thanky no gifty. I sound so mean and heartless!!! And if all they can remember is how old I am ? ? ? ?

Anyhow, tomorrow it is off to the wild blue yonder with our whiney baby. The flight attendents are soooo going to love us. And so are the other first class passengers!! For our anniversary trip - Papa upgraded us. And I know we will be more loved than we would have been if we'd had both infants. But I'll bet we won't make the "most popular list" tomorrow. HEE HEE.

Our entire congregation iat Faith Baptist s praying for PeeWee (the barfy baby) as he is relagated to the bowels of the "system". I'm still in shock over the simple fact that parents would rather see an infant is the "Shelter" and the judge would actually sign an order that would put him there, rather than have the people that have cared for him since he was 8 days old take him on a trip. It just does not make any sense at all to me. It is so totally beyond my sensabilities that I am still having trouble grasping the entire idea. Write to the Florida Dept of Children and Families and complain. When we return I will probably still be ticked and will make sure that everyone that counts hears about it. When the DCM said that the "judge is upset with the department so he has ruled for the parents all week" I absolutely about peeeed my pants!!!! Just in protest!!!!! Enough of my soapbox and Papa is waiting to pack this lifeline of mine so I have to say

See ya soon!!!!!

Travel

Only 2 more days and I will get to see my BABIES!! I am counting the hours. I'm still irritated with the judge, the DCM, and the whole DCF system in general - but it is not enough to quell my excitement over getting to see the kids. I'm all packed and ready to go. Lonnie is doing his extra long visit with his parents - what they are going to do with a 4 month old for 2 hours at the park is beyond me :) I will diaper and dude him for the trip and pack the car tomorrow as Papa says we have to be on the road at 0430 on Thursday!!

I got my "garage sale leftovers" all boxed up and sent off to the thrift store - since I didn't sell anything, it all went. I have to do the last few things to close up the house, got the newspaper stopped, put in a stop on the mail - and I'M READY TO GO!!

I am upset with PeeWee's mom - after the big todo over him going with us - she didn't bother with her visit this week either. So that makes 2 weeks in a row that she didn't bother. Last week she called just before the visit and said she couldn't get there from where she was and didn't ask for a reschedule. This week, she hasn't even bothered calling to set up a visit to start with. So - this should look really good on her record ~~~~ I've done everything I can do - it's up to her now!!

The weather has finally cooled off a bit and I've been a little more comfortable - it's only been about 75 during the day and dropping into the 60's at night. Makes for a lot better sleeping.

Papa is home with lunch - gonna go eat before it gets cold!!

4:11 update: PeeWee is going to spend the next few weeks in the "shelter" because there are NO openings in foster homes right now. This is disgusting!!

See ya!

Judges

I don not care for judges. At this time I am feeling like they are the bane of our legal system. I have felt this way since Thursday about noon. Ya see, a judge that does not have any idea who our little PeeWee is has decided that his parents know best - and he will not be allowed to travel with us to California. It does not matter that the Mom is only allowed a 1 hour supervised visit each week (and has missed over half of them) and Dad has never seen him (he is in jail and has been since baby's birth) - they were transported to the courthouse and the judge decided that they knew what is best for the baby. We were not told what time to be there - our phone message from the day before was not returned until the DCM (Dependency Case Manager) called to tell us that PeeWee will "just have to go to respite" for the time of our trip. I just am not happy with the idea of our little "fountain" going and staying with strangers for 3 weeks when he does not need to. Of course, that is just my opinion. The DCM, the judge, and evidently the parents don't think he is old enough to know who is careing for him. I disagree with thier opinions - so where does that leave PeeWee - at respite!!!

Well, we are getting ready for our trip! Baby 2 is going with us - his judge overruled his parents and said that they didn't have a good enough reason to disrupt his placement. I went to good ol' WallyWorld and got him some new little duds for the visit. He is now touristed out like you wouldn't believe. But how touristy can a 5 month old get ? ?) I am trying to teach him that he CAN go to sleep on my lap - he does not need to be laying straight out in his bed before he closes his eyes. He is smiling and cooing nicely so he will be a big hit at the airport and on the plane. I got a "snuggly" in preparation for taking PeeWee so I don't think I will need that - but we got a "Maya Wrap" for carrying Lonnie. I got an xl and let out - it is longer than I am tall. I could put him in it and kick him along with my knees!!! Papa looks at it very warily (the snuggly was way to small to fit around him). I don't know if he will ever use it or not. I will try - but with my shoulders the way they are - it's debateable.

I had a garage sale over the weekend - it ran 2 full days as well as just getting all the stuff out there on Thursday. It is now Sunday Afternoon and there have been 2 shoppers visit - oh, my neighbor stopped and said she will take anything that is free after the sale. I sold 2 picture frames without glass and a dress that is 3 sizes to big for me and I hoped never to grow into. I did like all the book and mag ads say and got everything that does not fit or I haven't worn or used in a year and put it all out in the screen room. Trying to "unclutter". Trouble is with 5--6 kids at a time - most things get used at least a little - so I cleaned mostly out of closets and under beds. The visible clutter is all stuff we use. So - - my garage sale not only didn't get rid of the clutter - it was a major blow to my ego - no one even stopped to see what I had!!! Like they all know - I wouldn't have anything that anyone else would want/need or like to have!!!

And to top my week-end off - I had nursery duty at Church today!! It's not the idea of Nursery. This is a very necessary service - but since Papa won't let our babies go to Nursery until they are 6 months old - He stayed home with the babies while I went in and watched the 2 boys that were there. I did have a real nice chat with ZoeAnn. She is an extremely nice woman that loves the little ones dearly. It was a nice relaxing hour - well spent actually. And I stopped at Wendy's on the way home and brought Papa some lunch too. The babies are asleep and since he's eaten = so is Papa.

So = I'm taking my bruised ego and my indignation with the legal system and going out to take my stress out on the weeds that insist on invading the flower beds!!!

Enough for today - hope your weekends fared better ! ! ! !

(Almost) Empty Nest!

Our home is quiet. Too quiet! Our toddlers have gone to a wonderful couple that are planning to adopt them. The world needs more people like them. We aren't looking to adopt so we are very happy for the children and thier chance for a "Forever Family". So now we only have the 2 infants keeping us company. And they are so different! PeeWee wants to stay up and watch the late show before he has his last little bit of bottle and then sleeps until 9 am or so - but then there is Lonnie!! He wants to go to bed with the chickens and he just knows the reason for him to be on this earth is to wake the roosters before daylight so they can be ready to crow when the sun comes up. Papa usually gets up with him as he is more the morning person. PeeWee and I hang out at night. So all is worked out well with those two.

We are getting ready for another little trip to San Diego. I am having a hard time with not wishing the days away as I really miss the kids. ALL of them - Even my special baby - S'te. We have the travel orders all ready for Lonnie but have to go to hearing tomorrow for PeeWee. So we know that one is traveling with us - maybe two. I was supposed to have a Dr appointment there but the insurance company messed up and didn't confirm it - so they've made another appointment for June - so I get 2 trips!! Papa said we will go ahead and visit this time anyway
as the arrangements have already been made and I haven't seen our babies since October . I'm so happy!!

I'm trying to do a little spring cleaning. It's hard to get enthused when it is to hot to breathe by 9:30 in the morning!! Our temps have been in the 80 & 90 degree range for the last 2 weeks. It cooled all the way down to 70 last night - respite. I did get some sleep. Anyhow, as I pull things out for a "yard sale" Papa either brings them back in or says "we can just go ahead and donate that" instead of trying to put a price on it. So I think I will just put everything out in boxes and he can take it to goodwill. It doesn't bother me any!! I'm not good at pricing things anyway. I don't want it !! Just take it!!! ha ha

So, all is well and quiet - Sharen and S'te have both put new posts up so I had something to read and I'm all happy now!!

What about you?

Life

And LIFE goes on. It's a paltry little saying - isn't it? The news yesterday about the new little grandbaby we were expecting hit me rather hard. Here is a young couple that is doing and has done everything that they can possibly do to make life good for the many young children that have passed thru their lives as well as for the ones that God has provided to stay with them. And here they must go thru the loss of an unborn child. Loss of a child thru death is terribly hard on parents. I want so badly to be there with them - to hold and comfort them - but life has caused another type of loss for me - the loss thru life. My child has a family of her own to morn with her, care for her, and bring joy back into her life. She also has her deep faith in God and his love. Through the passing of years and the adding of the wonderful family that they have caused to be - I am no longer the Mommy that can heal her hurts with a kiss, an intervention, or offering my lap for a good cry. This caused me much pain. I have been very blessed in that it took so long before this time came. For many parents this part of life comes much sooner and less gradually. For me - it showed up with a huge slam. First reading that there was a new child expected - I had mistakenly thought that we were closer than that. Then reading of the horrible news - this made it all hit home. I am a very selfish person - I am taking thier tragedy and personalizing it. But it is my tragedy too. My daughter lost a child - and I feel as though I have lost the most precious thing that I have ever had - my close relationship with my daughter. And if I knew what do do to change that - or if the Lord in his wisdom will help me with the acceptance of this - I would be eternally grateful - because this deep feeling of loss is with me now. Why? All I can really do is ask WHY?

The Big Yellow House

The Big Yellow House and *Carmen at http://momtothescreamingmasses.typepad.com/ both did blogs today on the stupid things people say to people with large families!! The funniest story that I have on that is:

Several years ago, when S'te only had 6 children of her own and 4 foster children and I had 2 foster babies: we went to Babies R Us for port-a-cribs. She wanted one and I wanted one so we thought that we would get the "twins" deal there. We shopped for quite some time and the kids were really, really good. They all interacted like one huge happy family!! I was so proud of all of them. We were at the checkout stand with our slips for 2 more cribs and the checker asked me, "Are all of these kids yours?" Now mind you, there were 12 children and not only were several within months of the same age, we had all kinds of nationalities. We had hispanic, black, white, and mixed children. I believe we even had a Korean child in the mix. Anyhow, I didn't think much of it, I just answered, "Two are mine and the rest are my daughters" to which my daughter of 25 or so piped up with, "But Mom, I'M YOURS TOO". Which made us all laugh really hard. As if I would have forgotten that she is mine. Actually, the answer should have just been "YES" because they are all mine. My FAMILY. We have always considered any child that resides within any of our walls - ours.

I am always shocked by the people that ask wonderously "Are they yours". If you don't know us - Papa is a white haired, white bearded, Santa looking kind of guy, over 60 and I'm a short, round, salt & pepper brunette that is over 50. So when we go somewhere with 3 1/2, 2 yo twins, a 4 month and 2 month old of hispanic, caucasian, and black/indian heritage - no I don't think I birthed them - but guess what - yes, they are mine. Mine to love and care for until they are taken to thier forever homes. And only the good Lord knows when that may be.

We have had a visit with another potential "forever family". They seem very nice and very, very excited about becoming instant parents. This is wonderful and I enjoyed watching them and the children get together an learn about each other. I hope that this special couple understands that one of the special problems for foster children is thier willingness to soak up every bit of attention that ANYONE will offer - then walk off and totally forget them. I believe in my heart, that this ability is thier own form of insulation. They have been forgotten by the many and they forget the many. We teach our birth children not to talk to strangers. Don't go with strangers. If strangers try to touch you, run and yell. But when you are a foster child - strangers pick you up to transport you, strangers come to the park and play with you, strangers take you to thier homes - and you have NOTHING to say about it. You (the child) have to trust "the system" and if you have foster parents that don't care for the above - the workers lable the FP's as over-reactive and interferring. Well, today Papa let the workers know that we would transport to the meeting - over thier objections. We suggested and invited the PFF (potential forever family) to visit the kids at home before a pajama party is done. The workers overruled this by setting up a "weekend pajama party" for Thursday - Sunday - without any contact before then. So much for the childrens best interests and ease of transition;. I know these workers have place children in many homes. My question is - how many have transitioned children out of thier homes? It might not be the best thing in the world to just pack them up one day and say - you're going to spend the next 4 days here and then you are going back home and then you are going to spend some more days here and some more days at home and then you are going to move to the new home. Now, have I confused you as to what is happening? Imagine how they feel?

Enough of a rant for today. Looking forward to the California trip and had wonderful news from the Money Pit about Rod's deployment. Can't get much better than this. The best of all the worlds.

Book

Can I put a book on his butt without causing a problem? No kidding, I'm in the second day after the second night of getting up about every hour to turn L over. He's almost 4 months now, only a few more days, and he has learned to turn from his tummy to his back. It is almost funny to watch. Most babies I've seen lean their heads over and their bodies follow. Not L - he works his butt straight up into the air and then leans his butt and his body follows. He also will not sleep on his back. He also does not give up his screaming. It goes on FOREVER. I tried just leaving him to cry it out and over an hour later he was still laying there on his back - screaming - and I still wasn't sleeping. By then he'd also wakened W (one of the twins), so I went in and put him back on his belly. I wasn't back to our room yet when he had gotten himself turned over again!!! We also went thro this at every nap time today. He is sleeping now but only out of exhaustion I'm sure!!! My thought is that if I put a book on his butt, he won't be able to lift it and turn over (ha ha - good idea huh?). Since he is such a big boy, it would probably have to be a pretty good sized book so I probably shouldn't do it. But it is definitely a thought!!!! I'm sure that as soon as he rests a little he will be "turning it over again".

Other than that - life is good. It was a little cooler - the news has been announcing this "cool front" for several days! It cooled all the way down to 75. I'm excited. Papa actually turned on the heat this morning!!! Of course, by 8:30 when the boys wanted 'side, I turned if off so I could leave the door open and hear what they were doing. I found a couple of trucks and a little slide at a garage sale on Saturday and they've really had some fun with it. It is nice to find something that they enjoy!!

They pulled a new house into the empty space behind us. It may actually buffer some of the I95 noise so I'm kinda liking it. Don't know if it is the house yet or if there just wasn't as much loud traffic as usual - so I'll really withhold judgment on it for right now. It is a new house and looks like a nice one. I haven't really been in a lot of the new homes as I'm not really very good at making friends anymore. The older I get, the more time I seem to spend by myself.

We are getting ready for our next trip. It is planned to be a short hop to San Diego area. I have to go to the doctor there and we also get to see my little girl and her family. I'm getting excited. I haven't seen her since October 1. The longest stretch since boot camp!!!! We will try to get permission to take the babies but the siblings should be in their "forever home" by then - Praise the Lord. It is time for them to have a permanent Mommy and Daddy. We are just tooo old!!!

Papa is feeding PeeWee and watching basketball. March madness is starting!! He really doesn't watch a whole lot the rest of the year - he saves it all for now!

I heard via one of my cousins that the Steinhoff property has sold so now maybe the CC Sheriff's office will be able to take another look there. She said she will contact them to make sure they are aware that no one should mind if they have a more thorough look. That is the one selfish thing I pray for - to know what happened before I die. And of course, to make whatever I can right.

OK, I'm tired and getting morose so I'll sign off for tonight. See ya'll manana! :) BTW here is my solution to the tipping butt!! Maybe he won't be able to tip it with a little pillow on each side of him!! We will see - wish me luck.

CACA Dudes

I've got a name for my group!!! That's right - its the CACA Dudes. I've got 4 sick boys - all in diapers and all full of caca with every change!!! I'm not kidding. Papa took out a kitchen garbage sack full of caca diapers to the outside rubbish and it wasn't 11 yet. Right now the dudes and dudette are all sleeping the sleep of the fever and flushed. Some with a "virus", one with reflux and one with just caca. Today is had been one end to the other. I'm telling ya - my washer will never be the same and I'm with Monk in the scene where he states - "there's not enough wipes in the world to do this!" and he was even talking about caca. Things will get better - I'm sure of that. No children could possibly keep this up for any legnth of time!!

Our toddlers have met a possible adoptive family. I'm wishy-washy about them. Don't feel like they "clicked" with the kids but the agency is going ahead with it. They will go for a weekend visit this weekend - if the prospects call and make arrangements. I mean - it's almost 2 on Friday afternoon - when are they planning to call? Why wait until bedtime to make the phone call? The worker called and said she approved the visit and that the rest of the arrangements are up to us. Whatever we feel is best for the kids. We feel that the other couple that the "committee" didn't pick are better. But who are we? ?

Lots has happened with my family since my last entry. My sister Sharen and her boyfriend traveled to Chicago due to a tragedy in his family. My condolences to Mitch and his family for their loss. They traveled during the coldest week so far this winter. I watched the news while they were in the midwest and it was SUB-ZERO there. Now, I know it gets cold in Canyonville but I'm sure that was a little uncomfortable even for them. But I was glad to hear that they have returned home safely and no worse for the wear. Makes us all appreciate family ties when tragedy hits like that.

Speaking of weather, it's been in the 80's (86 actually) here. I am rueing this spring. I was hot and sweating yesterday during our trip to the Medical Center with the CACA Dudes. And it is still February. It cooled down to 76 last night and today it is cloudy and only to 80 so I feel better. And my babysitter called to say she WANTS to babysit tonight as she does not have anything else to do (and maybe she is broke!!). So I feel LOTS better now that when I started this post 1 1/2 hours ago!!

Another glad tiding was given to us a couple of days ago - Rod and S'te are expecting again. They are very happy and I am very happy for them. For those who do not read her Money Pit - Rod will be leaving for Bahrain in July for his overseas tour. The happy event is expected to take place in September so he will have a new family member when he returns. And I am confident that he will. Our prayers will definately follow him and I know that their Faith will bring them the help, stregnth, and courage to face the difficult times that there will be. Of course, I will do anything and everything I can (or at least that she wants for me to do) for them and so will Papa. S'te has been fascinated and followed every "big family" story that she could find since she was a little girl (growing up as an only child) and it looks like they are going to be able to write a book of their own :) We all know that there is no limit to a Parent's love - it is endless (of course patience is sometimes a different story) so love for this child will abound.

Now I'm rambling and all the kids are up and Papa is home - so I've got to pretend that I did something besides sit here forever !!!! Happy tidings to all and good afternoon!!

New Board Member

We have a new Board Member in the family. In addition to being Papa to 5 children under the age of 4, Papa is now an esteemed member of the Board of Directors for the Association where we live. I don't know where he will find all the time he will need, but I'm sure he will do a good job. Congratulations Papa!!

The other large family blogs this week are on chores. Well, I can't really contribute to that one as we have all very young children, so I have all the "chores". Of course the twins (they just turned 2) love to "hope" when I'm doing anything with the babies. Their jobs are to put dirty clothes in the jump and the diapers in the barg. Sis has to put the books and toys away in the playroom before bed. Now, if you have toddlers, you understood that completely. YeeYee and Gicky are probably just a little behind in language skills after being shifted around and in the shelter for as long as they were!! I think they are doing great.

Bedtime around here is VERY mundane. After dinner, we brush teeth and get jammies on. The boys and Sis are used to this routine so we definately don't have any problem with that. Then while feeding night bottles to babies, we put the twins back to bed another dozen or so times and Sis decided she needs to potty about a dozen times and between thier bedtimes at 7:30 and 9 or so, they all go to sleep. I've tried letting them stay up later - but it takes just as long for them to settle down and go to sleep - and they are crankier than ever the next day. The babies are usually down for the count by about 9 and WALAAAA - they have slept all night for the last 2 nights!!

YeeYee was a little ill yesterday, he managed to toss pizza (from the night before), his breakfast, his pedialite, and his crackers all over both Papa and I several times - he is such a sharing child :) but today seems just fine. So bless the Lord for that!! And no one else seems to have come up (or down) with whatever it is.

It's bedtime now, hope to read news of others soon.

He Tried!!

It is now 9:23 AM. This is the morning that my wonderful husband has "let me sleep in" for my birthday!! Of course, he forgot about hte baby monitor on the nightstand when he got started this morning :) I woke to the mobile music from one crib (and baby grunting), the other kicking the chimes in his, one twin calling Papa (because he pooped), the other laying in bed crying (no one knows why), and Sis wanting her "dress". Keith was very busy trying to fix cereal for them. He had closed our door and shhh'd everyone several times. I laid there for a few minutes before I decided that he'd had enough torture!! By then he had the older kids to the table and both babies were having fits. One cries and the other is sympathetic :(

I grabbed a baby and stuck a bottle in his mouth - that wasn't what he wanted. So I started to change him (yuk). Of course as soon as I picked him up he stopped crying so the other stopped and started kicking his chimes again - content. Well to make a long story short - we have 4 in diapers and one in a pull-up. I had to give 4 baths before I could put clean diapers, clothes, and panties on. The chime baby just needed his poopy diaper changed. I didn't have to do a COMPLETE wash job on him!! So now, we have had 4 baths, 5 clothing changes, 2 bottles, 3 breakfasts, and now I have 2 sleeping babies, twins that want "outside", and have heated a cup of old coffee. Keith has gone off to his 9 am doctor appointment but he did leave a wonderful card on my laptop!! Bless him - and his Mom for raising him to be so kindhearted!!

I tried to do some work on our taxes yesterday, the twins absolutely hate it when I'm on the computer. If nothing else it's mama, mama, mama. There was something to do with feet - I only know that because both of them came over and stuck one foot at a time in my lap and wanted me to look. I never did find anything and SIS wanted to know what I was looking for - every time. She takes very good care of the boys!! Totally to distraction LOL

When Keith gets home I am going to have a LONG, HOT shower, eat a leisurely breakfast and then get dressed in my - I don't know yet - we'll have to see what my dream comes up with - but for now a baby is crying again.

Check back with ya'll later.

WOW

I've got news from the whole weekend but the most amazing part of it is the MICK JAGGER was the half-time show for the Super Bowl AND I RECOGNIZED HIM. Now, most everyone else in the world probably knew who was playing before yesterday. BUT NOT ME!! I couldn't believe my eyes. Ya know, Mick Jagger is almost 63! I read today that one commentator said he "dances funny, like he is waving flares for an airplane pilot" - I wonder how that person will dance when he is that old - most of us couldn't expend that much energy in that short of time and live to tell about it - and I for one am not that old yet!! So now that I've got my awesome news nugget off of my chest:

We actually had a time without children!!! One of the other FP's here who only does respite actually offered to take all 5! We talked on Thursday evening and she actually offered to take them all on Friday! I couldn't say OK fast enough!! I really love what we do and I enjoy every hair on their heads but same as with "real parent's" ; sometimes I (I don't know about Keith, he'll have to speak for himself) just need some me time. I feel better, my nerves are better, my store of patience is refilled.
We really didn't do much, we went to the Legion for dinner Friday night, stopped in at the new Sloanes on the way home. Saturday morning I got out and walked! All around the park. It was a long walk for me - who doesn't walk any further than 2 year old legs want to go. I sure miss a lot when I just drive thru. I didn't realize how DIRTY our park has gotten over the winter. Then we went to Mrs. B's for breakfast, visited friends, stopped at Lowe's and shopped (leisurely) for a ceiling fan. We actually got the fan installed in the morning room - laughing about how much fun the twins would have will all the pieces that were strung around. We then went to a training at Church that Keith has been attending and came home and I slept until 10 AM and we went to Church again and we went to pick up the kids. They were happy to see us and I think they missed us!!

So today is back to the normal - I poured myself a bowl of cereal at 8:00, started typing this about the same time and it is now 10:49 and I'm still at it. I didn't get nearly as much as I wanted done while they were gone, but enough that I'm refueled now.

How was your weekend?

Organization

The question this week is on "how we keep a large family organized". Because all 5 of my children are young (the oldest is 3 1/3), I may have a different take of organized. My idea is being able to find what you are looking for (in under 10 minutes ), be uncluttered enough to be sanitary and safe, and stay baby-proofed.

One persons chaos is another person's organization. I only know that because we have 2 Personality Types right here in this home. I want "a place for everything, and everything in it's place" and my husband - Papa - is a "out of sight, out of mind" person (most of his "important stuff" is stacked on top of his dresser where I can't reach it easily). Even as he helps to put clothes, dishes, diapers, grocerys , and/or anything else away, the closest opening that can be stacked up is fine with him. Fold something? If it will wrap around your had 3 times and make a ball - it can be put away. Hang something up? Don't straighten the collars and button the top button - just drape it over the hangar and hope. Now - I know it sounds like complaints - but it isn't. Not until I spend an entire day going behind him and refolding, rehanging, and looking for the mushroom soup I know he brought home does it bother me. Even when I ask for Baby Rice Cereal and he brings home Rice w/Bananas for the 2 month old!!! I have a stash for just these occasions. Thus my "orginazation".

Step 1 - THE MOST IMPORTANT TO ME - Never run clear out of anything. The list on the fridge is added to when I get to the "next to the last" of an item that I use. Papa does the shopping while he is out-and-about most afternoons. When he "mis-reads" my list - I have another chance for the right purchase. This list is kept in 4 parts, actual groceries, diapers & other baby stuff, cleaning and laundry supplies, and "my stuff" (like ice cream, bubble bath, laundry baskets, or anything else that I saw in a sale ad that I want). This way he never has to do "big shopping". He can get whatever he desires. I do try to be as specific as I can on them - right down to supplying a picuture or empty container.

Step 2 - Never leave a room empty handed. Always take a backhaul. It is one less trip that I will have to make later. Going to the kitchen? Take whatever needs to go there with me. Kids following? Give them something to carry also. They have hands - they like to help. With the way Papa puts things away, I can always find something that needs to be somewhere else.

Step 3 - Like with S'te - Keep baskets and bins that the children can reach so they can actually watch you putting thier toys away - someday they may actually figure out that this is something they can do. I keep the toys for the babies in the living room in a basket. I also keep large amounts of toys hidden in closets to be taken out in rotation. Legos come out one day - picked up and replaced on the top shelf in the closet. Dress up stuff another time, Dora and all the dolls/stuffed animals with strollers etc, musical stuff another time. Otherwise everything is out all the time. I have shelves in the playroom with the "movies" on them and they take turns choosing what they want to see during the quiet time (ha ha) right after dinner.

Dressers have tape on the front of them with the size of the clothes inside. No one but me opens these drawers (well, sometime Papa does). My kids aren't old enough to do much besides help when it comes to clothes. Diapers are kept in the bags with their size on it until time to actually use it. A basket holding all the diaper stuff travels from the baby bedroom to the living room - but everything stays in it (no matter how many times I have to put it there).

Outside, the kids have a "cart" for thier toys. I don't care how things go on it but anything that does not "fit" goes into the closet.

Since we live in Florida, we don't need a mud-room and we only use jackets about 3 times a winter (but they are on hooks that only an adult can reach). Shoes are all kept in a basket in the boy's room. A gate crosses the kitchen door and my bedroom door. I also have an extra that hides behind the couch for when I am in "time out" and the kids need to stay in the playroom.

There are probably several other little things, but those are the ones that matter to me the most.

Now I have a baby up - so I'll get the colored pictures and put them away on my way into him. Have a nice day!!!

Morning Schedules

I'm going to do this too. Just because I want to. S'te's was rather funny - if you look at it with humor- but not as funny as the other two she mentioned in her blog. I love reading Chris (The Big Yellow House) and Carmen (Mom to the Screaming Masses) as well as S'te's Blog because they are all doing the same madness over and over again - just like we do. The only thing I didn't hear from any of them is the "Daddy" part in all of this. I am "lucky" enough to have a hubby that is retired. So he is home for most of every day. He is a great help a lot of the time. He also makes it so I have a hard time figuring out what has happened with each day. I never know when the last time a baby ate - or how much- what the twins were into - what they had - or even if they had. I never know what I'm going to fix for a meal - 'cause I don't know what he bought at the grocery. Just petty fun little things that I hope you can laugh with me on.

So here it goes.

I'm not exactly sure what they mean by morning routine. Is it just whatever happens after midnight? OK - I'll run with that one.

1 am - Baby 1 (dob 12/29) wakes for his midnight snack. He actually sleeps for 3 hours at a time so I've slept for 2 hours at this point. He feeds for about 30 minutes and downs about 4 oz.

3 am - Baby 2 (dob 11/3) wakes for his mid-morning feeding. We actually take turns on this one. Whoever wakes up first gets dibs. He has been asleep since about 9:30 so he isn't doing badly for hours. I'd wake him before I went to bed - but then I wouldn't make it until midnight. He feeds for almost an hour and downs between 4 and 6 oz once I get the bottle in the exact position that he can suck on it. Sometimes it takes 5 to 10 minutes for that to happen. Once his initial hunger is over - he loses interest in "all that hard work" and I have to coax him to eat more so he will sleep a little longer!! Papa just puts him back to bed after his 2 or so oz. (Which means he does not sleep long)

4 - 4:30 - Papa usually gets this one. It's Baby 1 back for more. He feeds him and puts him on his (Papa's) belly while they are reclined. They sleep this way until . . . either I get up and move him or

5-6 am - Baby 2 back for more. And whoever gets this one is the one that gets the

6:30 - twins (turned 2 on 1/8) are up and at 'em. We don't have to make any rounds to get anyone out of bed - I wish!!!

Usually around 7 - One of us turns the TV on to PBS and let the early birds watch until our Diva gets up and announces Good Morning. Then they all 3 go into the playroom and watch their TV until baby's 1 and/or 2 (by this time they might both be awake) are changed and given another whatever they are eating.

7:15 Kids Breakfast - usually cereal with choice of yogurt or milk, fruit juice, and whatever else they can scam from us. I check my e-mail and blogs.

7:30 Bath time and clothes - The twins first and then Diva since I have to be able to dry her hair right after (or she JUST CAN"T HANDLE IT!!). We then diaper and dress. Remind Diva to use potty. By now Baby 2 is looking around some. The twins and Diva are fighting over whatever they have. I mediate and find something different for "today's toy" in one of the closets. Sometimes legos, sometimes dress up, sometimes the cars and trucks, etc. all depending on how much stress I want when it is time to pick it back up!! This "new" toy usually occupies them for an hour or so. I check my e-mail and blogs

8 am - Baby 1 is awake - depending on what the twins are tearing up I can maybe bathe and dress him for the day before I feed him. Papa is on the computer doing his emails - or putting dishes in the top rack of the dishwasher (It's the only one he uses) - or putting the clothes from the dryer on the couch for me to fold - or putting garbage out, etc. that kind of stuff. If I get vocal, Papa will usually sit still to feed for a couple of ounces. I finish up the feed (force feed another couple of ounces when possible) so that he will sleep for a little longer. Wash my face and hands, fix myself a cup of coffee/tea, and maybe some breakfast - which I share 3 more ways. They have radar for food - no matter what or how much they just ate!!!!

9 am - Baby 2 is back awake. Maybe I can bathe him and repeat the prior posting.

10 am - Snack time - oranges, apples, banana, whatever fruit I have handy will be passed out. Meanwhile Papa has completed another load of laundry and deposited it on the couch. Here is where the routine gets diverse. Sundays and Tuesdays we have 11 am engagements. So on these days, I look for shoes, socks, diaper bags, cups etc. All the stuff we need to go somewhere. Then I hop into the shower, get dressed, smear lipstick, try and blow dry the front of my hair, and come out to a chorus of "where you going?" - as if it would change......

11 am - no matter where we are or what we are doing - Baby's 1 and 2 are ready to eat. They get together about this time and again in the evening and gang up on us!! Papa usually leave to meet with friends right after this time and then stops at the grocery on the way back home for whatever my "list" was, diapers, and whatever looks good to him. He usually gets back home around 2:30 or 3.

Noon - Lunch (leftovers or PBJ's) for kids and then NAPS.

From 1 - 2 is my daily SOAP. Most of the time the kids (all 5) are napping or at least quiet. I spend this time folding clothes, folding and putting away laundry, web surfing, checking e-mail, returning phone calls, ordering stuff from e-bay (etc).

And since all my kids are little the afternoon just repeats the morning with a few minor variations!!!

So.... How'd I do? Not as exciting as your descriptions, but busy enough for me!!