Wednesday, July 29, 2009

Conversation in the Parking Lot

Yesterday we all went out and waited in the car while Rob returned some ground chuck that had gone bad. Here's the conversation between Matthew and yours truly:

Matthew: Why are we here, Mommy?
Me: Daddy had to return some ground beef that went bad.
Matthew: Why did it go bad?
Me: I don't know, sweetie. It shouldn't have gone bad by now, that's why Daddy is taking it back.
Matthew: What will they do with it?
Me: Well, they will probably throw it in the trash.
Matthew: Daddy couldn't have thrown it away at home?
Me: Daddy needs to show the store that it went bad early so he can get his money back.
Matthew: (in a panicky voice) How will they know which money was Daddy's??
Me: (After laughing for a bit) Oh, honey, they'll just give him the right amount, not the same money.

At this point, Rob returned. He told me that he was not the first person to return some ground chuck today. Kind of weird because we've never gotten bad meat at Pick 'n Save before.

In other news, I hurt my back playing Wii on Saturday night. I have recurring problems from an injury in junior high and also nerve pain from the multiple failed spinal attempts during my last two c-sections. I thought I was better yesterday, but it all just came back when I took Anna to Wal-Mart. God is so good, though. I had a wonderful time reading Scripture and praying on Sunday morning. Guess I'll be doing that tonight while the fam is at church as well. :)

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

The Saga Continues

At Matthew's doctor visit last week, we learned that the law changed a bit and those of us on Badgercare/Title 19/whatever it's called have to have the children checked for lead yearly. Fine by me...we live in an old house so it's nice to know. Matthew had his checked at the appointment, amidst much yelling and screaming. The doctor's office called and had me bring in Ben since he did not have his checked at his appointment in March. Ben was rather excited b/c he knew he got an ice cream cone from McDonald's afterwards.

Well. About two minutes before he and Rob were ready to walk out the door, the doctor's office called with the news that Matthew tested a little high and would we please bring him in for a veinous draw to double-check? (Anna had that happen as well and she was fine after the second draw.) And this is where it gets a little rough....Matthew refused to go. In fact, he was weeping and screaming while cowering in the corner. I grabbed his shoes, Rob grabbed him, and he was carried to the car kicking and screaming. Yikes. Good thing our neighbors know us well!

Matthew had settled down by the time they arrived and I guess he and Ben fought over who had to go first. Ben lost but did a great job. Rob said he looked a little concerned but didn't cry at all. (And Rob talked the nurse into a veinous draw since it's more accurate than the finger poke.) Matthew started screaming when Rob went to put him on the table and didn't stop until they left. When they got home I asked Matthew, "Well, that wasn't so bad, was it?" He said, "It was just as bad as I thought it would be!" and almost started crying again.

**sigh** Two out of three isn't bad for kids who like the doctor, is it???

Sunday, July 26, 2009

We tried, Okay???

Yesterday we were supposed to attend the wedding of our next-door neighbor's son. I had the invite awhile ago, thought I memorized the location, and responsibly recycled it. I had my babysitter lined up, picked her up, and Rob and I were set for about an hour of wedding "fun." (Those who know me best know that I HATE weddings, which is why I'm always so sarcastic at them....but I digress...)

Anyway, we headed over to the church. And then we walked around the church attempting to enter every single solidly locked door. Obviously, my memorization skills were a little off. I had memorzied the name of the church, but as it turns out, there are about four churches with that exact same name in the phone book and I had the wrong one. We tried finding another church farther down the street, but it's parking lot was just as empty. The interim pastor of the church kind of laughed when we caught him coming out of the building and offered to help us find it, but in a town famous for it's high church ratio (Watertown has the highest church-to-people ration in America) and most of them being Lutheran and we were looking for a Lutheran church, it wasn't going to happen.

So we took our kid-free hour and went to Wal-Mart and got the happy couple a nice gift. Hey, we weren't wasting free babysitting!

Thursday, July 23, 2009

What I Learned Today

By Anna June Litwiller

Today, I learned how to climb up the gate to the study and hoist one leg over. I also learned that I don't know how to climb down, only fall on my head.

I learned how to take off my shorts and am working on the diaper.

I learned how to climb over the couch into the windowsill.

I learned that a candle is not a cookie.

Mommy tried to teach me where my eyes are, but I thought she said, "hi's" so I acted like I was on the phone.

Wonder what I'll learn tomorrow???

Matthew Stats

Matthew went to the doctor today and I thought I'd share his stats both physically and other-ly. :)

Height: He is currently 43 inches tall. They did not enter his height properly last year, so it looks like he got shorter. Both the doctor and I got a good chuckle out of it. Matthew has most certainly grown in the last year. Last summer he had just learned to recognize his letters and the sounds they make, this year he is reading at a second-grade level. Last year I couldn't get him to color for more than five seconds, this year he is writing words and drawing semi-recognizable pictures. Last year he left the nursery for good and this year he is entering kindergarten. He has grown in his faith (although it left him a little today. I told him to pray for his brother, who has a name-calling problem. Several hours later he said, "I don't know WHAT God is doing, but He's not helping Ben much!")

Weight: Matthew weighs 42 lbs. 8oz. He is right on target for the proportion between weight and height (although he looks a little skinny to me!) He has also been pulling his weight around the house alot more. He is required to do three chores each morning and he's always eager to get them done. I hardly ever need to vaccuum anymore b/c he loves this chore! He helps me with Anna (fetching diapers, etc.) and loves entertaining her when needed. He's sometimes too eager to help with things, but his spirit and heart are in the right place.

Hearing: Well, the check turned out fine, but I think it needs a little tune-up...at least his listening.

Spine: For the first time, Matthew had a spine check for straightness. And he does have one, for sure!

Lead Test: Hmmm....if you heard tons of unexplainable screaming around 3:15 pm CST, that was Matthew getting his finger pricked. He is my drama king, whether it be a physical injury or emotional. Thankfully, his forgiveness is far-reaching.

He's a sweet, healthy little guy. And yes, he got an ice cream cone after the appointment! I think my treat is having such a terrific son.

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Tidbits off my Brain

I needed to get a couple of cute kid things off my brain before I forget them. So here goes!

When we were in Illinois this weekend, Anna practiced her vocab by adding some family names. One of them was her cousin Jamie, who is 3 1/2 months older than her. She walked up to him and said, "Jamie, Jamie, Hi Hi!" Jamie kind of stared at her but didn't say anything. Anna walked away, threw her arm in the air and said, "Boy!"

Matthew is currently taking a bath by himself. We've decided that five might just be the cut-off age for bathing with siblings. He's rather excited about this and said that he doesn't want to be a big boy, he wants to be a HUGE boy.

Matthew got his first burn tonight helping Rob fry chicken. He's okay, but he was rather dramatic until the burn was taken care of. I'm impressed, though, because I won't even fry chicken!

Ben and I walked over to the library tonight to turn in his final step in the reading program. Both boys are now finished and got their free books (both Clifford), pizza coupons, and tickets to the pool party on August 2nd. Ben finished with an encore reading of "Big Trouble in Walla Walla" which I heartily recommend for those who enjoy reading tongue twisters (which I do!)

Birthday Weekend

We had a great time over the past few days celebrating some birthdays. Saturday was my niece Makenzie's first birthday (no, there is no "c" in her name b/c my sister wouldn't listen to me...) and Matthew turned five on Sunday. In between parties we had a wonderful time visiting with family (well, at the parties too!)

On Friday we stopped in Streator to visit my grandmother. The boys were very well behaved and we had a good time with her, but we kept the visit short b/c she was still tired from a several-day stint in the hospital. We got to see the new assisted living place she lives in, which was very nice. Then we went on to Normal and had supper at Chuck E. Cheese with Rob's family. I was a little disappointed that they had removed the toddler area. Anna and Cousin Jamie had to make due with the little rides scattered about. I followed Matthew around, which was kind of like following a ball in a pin ball machine. He had a great time and even won three rounds of Mario Kart. That was funny b/c he's too short to reach the gas pedal, so the steering wheel was practically in his chest!

Saturday started out with Matthew and I getting the stuff for the games at his party. It was a pirate theme so we got a treasure chest pinata and gold coins for a treasure hunt. Thankfully, we got everything at one store and then I grabbed some Starbucks for me and Rob. It's kind of become a little tradition to get it once per visit (as opposed to three-four times a week when we were DINK's...that's double-income-no-kids)

Kenzie's party was at noon that day and we headed over to a fun park. The boys ripped around the playground most of the time, except when we made them stop to eat. Anna had a good time as well and surprised all of us by climbing up a plastic rock wall. She's a nut! After the party, we took the kids to the Children's Museum for an hour. We then took them to Grandma and Grandpa Litwillers and went out on a date. We ended up eating at Chevy's, walked around Borders for almost two hours, then tried to go to Hobby Lobby but it had closed earlier than we expected. The kids were in bed when we got back and we chatted with Rob's parents for a bit, then grabbed Blizzards at DQ before turning in.

Sunday we went to church in the morning and I was amazed that both Anna and Ben went into their respective locations w/o fussing. Matthew just stays with us in the service. We had a yummy lunch at GG's before heading back to give Anna a nap and getting ready for the pirate party. The cake was really neat and Matthew enjoyed all the piratey things we got for activities. The children present consisted of four female cousins ages 6-13, four one-year-olds, a newborn, and Matthew and Ben. Kind of an interesting group to plan activities for, but a pinata is for all ages and the treasure hunt for gold pieces went over pretty well. We had a fun time watching Matthew demolish the pinata after it had spilled it's candy. He whacked it good! He got lots of neat presents which I won't take the time to name, but we got him his own remote for the Wii. Coolest parents ever!!!

After the party we took Matthew to Toys R Us so he could get his birthday balloon and crown and to spend a gift card he got. This was a pretty good deal: He wanted the game Super Mario Galaxy. There was a coupon for 15% off video games, he had a $3 birthday coupon, and he had a $15 gift card. He also wanted the movie WALL-E which was $5 off. So, we got $70 worth of items for about $40. Not too shabby! (And Matthew had enough birthday money to pay for it!)

We headed home on Monday morning. Rob took the day off so that we wouldn't have to drive on Sunday night. We got out of Normal around 9, stopped for lunch in Janesville, and were home in the early afternoon. I then went and registered Matthew for soccer in the fall, went to the library, and grocery shopped. Needless to say, we all slept like rocks last night!

Well, we prayed for a fun weekend and we had it. Can't beat that!

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

How to be Black

This morning at breakfast I was enjoying my iced coffee when Matthew asked, "Hey, Mom? If you drink too much coffee, will you turn brown like Mr. Doug? (the African-American father of a friend of his). I said, "Mr. Doug didn't turn brown b/c he drank too much coffee, sweetie. He was born that way." Matthew replied, "I know, Mom, but will YOU turn brown if you drink too much coffee." I told him no and then he asked, "Well, what if you eat too much chocolate?"

Mercy, if that were the case I'd be blacker than midnight!!

Saturday, July 11, 2009

The Aftermath of VBS

Ben came down with some virus yesterday. He put himself down for a nap when Anna went down and then woke up with a fever. He vomited and then went back to sleep. He was feeling pretty crummy all day, but only got sick twice. And then he slept all night long and woke up asking what was for breakfast and started planning the other two meals. He ate two pancakes and some eggs, so I guess he really was hungry!

Matthew is now sneezing and coughing, so I'm beginning to wonder if they didn't just contract a bunch of illnesses at VBS. I myself got chicken pox from VBS when I was six and shared it with my three-year-old brother.

We're praying that we all stay healthy for our trip to Illinois next weekend to celebrate Matthew's fifth birthday and my niece's first birthday.

Thursday, July 9, 2009

Another year over...

Family Bible School has come to a close and the boys had a wonderful time. The theme was construction oriented, so they came home with Home Depot kids aprons, construction hats, and tons of candy. They had a blast and hopefully learned a little something. Rob and I got to watch them play games at the carnival at the end and our boys stayed together the entire time. It's so neat to see how their friendship has blossomed. I'm so glad we're homeschooling b/c I would hate to see that closeness compromised by sending them off to age-segregated classrooms.

Rob and I were in charge of the nursery tonight, which had all of three kids. The other parents picked up their kids early, so we just shut down the nursery and went to watch our boys. I did get to go to the last adult session, and it was good. And we got more free Berres Brothers coupons.

And for the funny of the day: Matthew was telling me this morning that he wants a little brother. And not a replacement for Anna--he thinks we need another child, but a boy this time. I told him the only way that would happen is if he and Ben prayed for it. Ben immediately bowed his head and prayed for a long time. I didn't catch all that was said, but I did hear, "Please, Jesus, send us a new baby brother because we really want one." And they want to name the baby Samuel Joseph. You know, if by God's grace (and sense of humor) we have another boy, I'll go with the name!

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Slug City

My children have morphed into slugs. It's been a slow process (pun intended) and has gotten worse as our week has progressed. Family Bible School has worn them down considerably and they lay around like slugs for most of the day, mustering up enough energy to go again the next night. Miss Anna has been the hardest hit and was very lethargic all day. She sat on my lap during school time and didn't try to grab anything off the table. She didn't try to get on top of chairs or climb up the stairs. And she actually stayed in one place when I set her down. I checked her repeatedly for fevers but she's okay. My diagnosis is a case of "Bible school nursery is wearing me out!" We only have one night left and I think she'll make it. :)


We had a nice time last night reconnecting with one of my friends from Cedarville. Renee and I met our first day there and have been friends ever since. Three of her children line up in age with my three, so it was loads of fun have all eleven of us in a booth at Culver's for supper. She and her family came through the area on their vacation and stopped in. We had a nice time but decided a park would be a better place to meet next time, since the kids were rather wired. But, it was fun and our children act like they are the best of friends.


And just to share our fun news: Rob and I will be celebrating our 10th anniversary next month and it looks like we'll get a two-night getaway!!! Some friends of ours offered to take the kids for that length of time, so we're checking out a resort in the area. We want something that is NOT family-oriented and very relaxing. There is a nice resort in Oconomowoc that fits the bill. When you think about us, pray that we all stay healthy and that we get this time away together.

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Funny Moments

Today I was playing Super Mario Galaxy (I think that's our family vacation this summer--send a little Italian man through space and travel with him to far off galaxies...) and I was on a level that was particularlly hard. I finally figured out the hardest part and Matthew said, "Oh, Mommy! I'm so proud of you!" and Ben gave me a big hug. I almost "died" at that point b/c I was laughing so hard. Ah, they weren't proud when I endured a seemingly endless c-section with them, but they're proud that I can sommersaut, spin, wall-kick, and spin again to get on top of a Whomp.

I was showing Anna some pictures of animals today and was trying to get her to imitate sounds or names. Here's the conversation:

Mommy: Giraffe. Gi-ra-ffe.
Anna: Dog-gie
Mommy: Elephant. El-e-fant.
Anna: Dog-gie
Mommy: Rhino.
Anna: Dog-gie
Mommy: Moose.
Anna: Mooooooooo

At least she got one!

Monday, July 6, 2009

Happy Mouth

I am pleased to report that I had a filling and not a root canal. My mouth is sore from holding it open so long (and talking to people at FBS tonight) but I'm doing fine. My dentist cracks me up b/c he holds elaborate conversations w/his assistant during the proceedure. In fact, when I kind of gurgled that I had extra info on the Palin resignation, they whipped everything out of my mouth so I could fill them in :) I love my dentist!

We had another great night of FBS tonight. Ben had a wonderful time and actually cried when I picked him up b/c he didn't want to leave. Matthew answered a question in the missions room and was told he had "quizzed out." Last year he came home every night telling me that he never answered a question. I told him "maybe next year" and sure enough, he's doing it now! And the amazing part was that I picked them up and they calming walked with us to the car. I think I need to check their tags to see if we got the right kids...

Rob and I are enjoying the adult class, which is covering our words. I can't say I'm gleaning too much new info, but it's a good reminder for sure.

And Miss Anna was one of only six in the nursery tonight. She had a good time as well, although they've labeled her as a compulsive snack-stealer. I'm not surprised since we all feed her here at home, so she probably thinks she can get snacks from anybody, even tykes her own age.

A Good Night

Rob and I did have a good time last night at FBS. Matthew loved his class and Ben enjoyed going over there for the story time. We did find out that Ben's been "ok-ed" to go there for the rest of the week instead of nursery. Another mom with one that's almost four took her son, so the lady in charge said it was okay if Ben came too. I'm so glad b/c he wasn't overjoyed with the nursery.

And, we got there to set up for FBS nursery last night only to find out that our 2's and 3's nursery is being used as a storage/decorating center for a wedding on Friday. That didn't make us too happy b/c we were planning to use it for the 2's and 3's!! One pastor okayed it, not knowing that the 3's were in the nursery. So, we put 1's-3's in the 1's nursery, hoping and praying that we didn't have too many kids. The other pastor who said 3's were in the nursery came by and was a little shocked that we didn't have full use of the nursery. Gotta love that whole "left hand not knowing was the right hand is doing" stuff when it goes on.

But God is good. We didn't have too many kids and there were only two three-year-olds. And only one one-year-old (Anna) so we were okay. The poor mother of the bride was beside herself trying to use a church in the midst of Bible school and not being able to decorate early, so it's just more of a case of overcommitted facilities than anything else.

And Rob and I got to sit in a church service with no children!! We enjoyed the service and the discussion group afterwards. The pastor in charge of the adult class (which is neither of the pastors aforementioned) handed out coupons for free stuff to the adults who stayed for the discussion groups after break. Rob and I got coffee coupons for Berres Brothers. Woo-hoo!

I have a dental appointment this afternoon that could be a simple filling or a root canal, depending upon what they find. I'm praying for filling so I'm not all loopy and in pain for the next few days.

Sunday, July 5, 2009

Still here

I haven't posted anything for awhile b/c I haven't had anything to say. We had an okay week and Rob had the day off on Friday (with pay this time!) I had a "tired spell" on Thursday that lasted into Friday, so we cancelled our plans to check out a different children's museum. Thankfully we hadn't told the kids, so they weren't disappointed.

We went to the parade here in town on the 4th. Rob didn't go out to set out our chairs until Saturday morning, so we had second-row seats. That meant the kids weren't on the curb and couldn't collect candy as usual. The adults in front of us did hand some back to them, but it just wasn't the same. Rob said he'll get the chairs out a day early next year. We had two picnics to attend. The first was with our neighbors and was fun, mainly b/c the boys behaved. The second was with a bunch of friends from church and was not as much fun b/c Ben was being mean. We ended up leaving early, making a very loud exit with one screaming three-year-old. We bathed them (getting off the tons of bug spray that made very little difference) and put them to bet at 8pm as usual. Rob and I collapsed in bed to the sounds of the fireworks.

This week is our VBS at church, although it is Family Bible school, so I guess it's FBS. We are helping with nursery tonight and Thursday night. Ben is stuck in nursery b/c they are not taking three-year-olds in the preschool group, not even the church kids as they had done in previous years. It doesn't make me real happy, but I guess they are taking the 3's for story time.

So I guess we haven't had the happiest of weeks overall. And when you're not happy or satisfied, one of the best things you can do is go buy a cake. That's exactly what I did after lunch today. I brought home a little cake and wrote "Happy Us Day" on it and told the boys that sometimes it's just fun to celebrate the fact that you exist.