Stay at Home Mom of Four and NO MORE...

down time

2011-01-16T16:35:00.002-05:00

i have some down time today and I am not sure what to do with myself. All the kids are occupied but I am so afraid to start something KNOWING full well the minute I start something they will come running. SO what ends up happening is I get nothing done in fear of starting anything where as if I started something I might just get something done. Does that make any sense at all? Maybe I will go start something.....NNNNNAAAAHHHHHH.......

checking in

2011-01-08T12:06:00.002-05:00

chad came home last night and asked if i had posted anything on my blog lately. i was pretty amazed he even asked because he had not said anything about it for months. so i decided to post something. i also am sitting at home with a sick girl and trying to entertain 5 other children. the sad part of it is the sick one is a friend that was spending the night, not one of my own. anyway, we are home so i thought i would take a moment to post something. there is no way to update all of you on all the things that have happened since my last post (months, right?) so ai am not going to even try. but i will start with right now. kids are great, holidays went well, chad is busy, and i am content. i am enjoying writing this so maybe i will get back to posting once and awhile. no promises but i will do my best and forget the rest!

outside

2010-08-26T15:35:00.002-04:00

i am currently siting on my back porch under the ceiling fans enjoying some well earned peace and quiet. Bear had surgery earlier this week so we have been homebound BUT thanks to an amazing friend, he is happy watching TV with a friend and the rest of my children are playing with friends. It is times like these that I am able to really recognize how important friends and a good support network are in today's world. The saying is it takes a village to raise a child, well it certainly takes a village to raise 4 children, even as a stay at Home mom. Sometimes I think it takes more help when you are a stay at home mom. I have the most wonderful, caring, kind hearted, and amazing friends. I am so blessed. How do people raise children in this world without friends? I know I would not be able to. So thank you are my wonderful friends out there, you know who you are and know I would be lost without you.

whew!

2010-06-25T15:36:00.002-04:00

we did it....we made it through OPERATION CLEAN OUT ROOM day 1 and i am exhausted. we needed to do it. i actually filled 3 1/2 trash bags with only trash from barrett and the girls' rooms. i have not tackled parker's room yet and do not have the energy for it today. we are going to do it soon though because we are about to have a major shifting of rooms in the very near future. cooper has decided she wants her own room and her daddy told her (against my opinions) that if she could stay in the playroom for one week alone then we would make it happen. well of course she did so now i am stuck trying to make it happen. what daddy did not realize what that it would really involve much more than simply moving hr bed next door. now we have to move parker and cooper and clean out the playroom. AND daddy also did not realize that when he made this promise she was going to want it to go into effect immediately, not in a few weeks! now i have to figure it all out and make it work.....i was so happy with the girls sharing a room but i guess i did not have a say in this. maybe daddy should take off a few days of work to shift things around since it was his bright idea in the FIRST PLACE!

movies and sunshine

2010-06-24T17:18:00.002-04:00

today we had a very typical summer day. we went to the free movies this morning, lunch out using report card coupons, then spent the afternoon at the pool. we played with friends and mommy got to hang with some of her friends as well. after being there for 3 hours i did decide it was time to go home. now the kids are having quiet reading time in their rooms while i get dinner ready. summer time bliss! maybe we can talk daddy into taking us out for ice cream!

day 3

2010-06-23T14:54:00.003-04:00

so it is day three of summer vacation and my mental state is holding strong. kids have been pretty good and getting long as much as I can expect. i have not been writing for awhile because i felt like it was not doing much for me. it was almost stressing me out more than relaxing me but i am going to try another time. maybe this time it will help me reach out and tickle my intellect just a touch to keep my brain from feeling like mush. summer does that to a person! i will try my best to write here on a more frequent basis but i will not let it overwhelm me in anyway. i hope to be here again soon :)

time to catch up

2010-05-18T13:03:00.002-04:00

Parker has a playdate over so I actually have five minutes to catch up on the blog. It amazes me how much time I spend out and about and how little time I spend at home. You would think with the few hours a day I am at home I would be better at posting. Not the story for this SAHM.
Anyway, to catch the 10s of readers up our past few weeks. The puppy is doing great, growing like a weed. He has gained 15 pounds in the month and a half we have had him, already losing his puppy fuzz and getting the grownup coat of a full grown golden. The kids are doing pretty well however one would think at times we had a pet tiger the way they run screaming away from Macon and avoid trying to get the numerous socks out of his mouth.
Barrett celebrated his 10th birthday May 5th and is now officially in double digits. He seems older and wiser everyday and it makes me sad at might to think my little guy is gone. He is almost as tall as me and could eat me out of house and home.
We only have 5 weeks of school left for the crew and I am already having small panic attacks about how to keep thigns calm over the long summer break. Please send me happy peaceful thoughts........
well, the playdate is starting to go south so I am off to referee......

Worth the fight?

2010-04-13T20:00:00.001-04:00

Is it worth the fight? I think this a lot when dealing with not only my children, but my husband as well. Sometimes the issues I have with them are not really worth the fight it takes to fix them. It is a pain for me to have to do so much but sometimes it is more of a pain to fight them on it. Sadly, this is more true with my husband then with my children. I tend to fight the necessary fights with the children because they then learn what is expected and do the right thing. Chad on the other hand just listens to me, gives me a look, and continues right on doing what irks me. In fact, yesterday I asked him to stop doing something that really bothered me. I openly admitted that I had not solid reason for it to bother me or for him to stop bu that it simply really bothered me. Furthermore, I then offered a few compromises on the issues. You know what he did? he looked at me and said he was going to need to think about it because the fact that it bothered me made him want to do it that much more. Huh? What is wrong with this picture?

Late at night

2010-04-08T10:32:00.002-04:00

Why is it that as I lay in bed at night I can come up with such wonderful things to post about? I can formulate perfect sentences and thoughts flow freely. But then the next morning, nothing.....zip, zilch, nada, nothing comes to me. My mind is like a blank screen, very similar to the face my children give when when I ask them to behave. So, because I could think of nothing else to write, I thought I would write about that......the fact that I have nothing to write. I guess I should write the ideas down or come down and knock them out when I am thinking about them but really I am not THAT concerned with keeping my few bloggers entertained. Sorry folks.......maybe I will remember more next time!

Been quite awhile

2010-04-07T14:41:00.003-04:00

yes it has been quite awhile I know but things have been jumpin' here in the Gill home. The biggest and most exciting news to date is our new puppy we got last weekend. His name is Macon Trouble Gill and is 12 weeks old. He is fuzzy and sweet and trouble and fun, all rolled into one. I took this picture on Easter Morning, as our fisrt family picture together. I can not believe i was able to get all kids AND dog looking and smiling.
We are on spring break this week and have very little plans. Daddy is working and the kids are playing with the puppy. It is kind of a mini taste of what is to come this summer. Have to be honest with you, not sure if I am going to be able to take it. We are going to have to have some set plans or things to do each week or I may not survive. The idea of sleeping in and hanging out always sounds so good to me but it never really happens. Oh well, at least this week they have Macon to keep them busy! What should I do when the newness wears off and it is not fun to watch the puppy anymore?

JAMMIES POWER

2010-02-11T14:58:00.005-05:00

I just realized I had not been really good about posting pictures of the kids. Here is a pretty recent one. They are all in their jammies inside out trying to make it snow. Yes make it snow! This was the night before our first big snow storm. Who knew their jammies had so much power?

Cookies

2010-02-11T14:56:00.002-05:00

in the midst of making cookies for Coop's VDay party tomorrow and I had to stop and pause. I found myself licking my fingers so often that I lost count. Why is it homemade cookie dough is SOSOSOSO delicious? How can one say no? I certainly can not. Do you think Weight Watchers counts point for finger licking? If so.....I wonder how many it is?

The Gimmies

2010-02-05T12:38:00.002-05:00

My kids have the gimmies.....you know what I mean when I say that...."I NEED that item." "I HAVE TO HAVE that item." "BUT MOMMY, What am I going to do without that item?" I know we have been home basically all week because of snow so maybe I am just a little more on edge or sensitive too it but COME ON! I took them out to lunch and inflation nation, spent $75 and all they could do is ask for MORE??? I know it is not the kids fault that outings like that cost so much, it simply costs a lot of money to take a family of six somewhere. But how do we teach our children to be gracious and kind and thankful for what they have? How do we teach them that they do not need the new Wii game because a lot of kids do not even have a Wii. How do we show them that they should be thankful for the Ipod shuffle they have and can very easily use the four extra pair of headphones we have instead of purchasing new ones. I know I must sound sour right now. and do not get me wrong, all in all my kids are good kids. They are friendly, compassionate, gentle, caring children but they just seem to have a bad case of the GIMMIES!!! Hopefully, we can ride it out like we do the flu and all will pass in time. I just hope I can make it until then.

On the Wagon Again

2010-01-27T15:21:00.002-05:00

I went to the dr. yesterday for my annual checkup and was SHOCKED by what the scale said. I had been pretty happy with my weight but it seems I have been a slacker so things have creeped up and up and now are in a not so happy zone. For the past few weeks I have said I would cut back, track my food, lose the dessert, etc. but it never seems to happen. I seem to say to heck with it and eat it anyway. Well I decided to go back on weight watchers for a few weeks. It has ALWAYS worked well for me. I thought I could do it on my own, since I know all the tools but obviously not SO I am back on the wagon again, the Weight Watchers Wagon that is, at least for the next few weeks. Wish me luck....just in time for Tri and Suit season.....

Pets

2010-01-25T20:11:00.002-05:00

Today marks one week since Jodi died. Some people would have moved on and been no worse for wear but I believe those would be the people that did not know Jodi, people who had not met my sweet, gentle, caring dog. It seems funny to me how much I miss him. He was not a person, not a spouse, child, grandparent, or even an uncle, aunt, or cousin. He was, however, an integral part of our family and our life. Jodi seemed to quietly be in our everyday life and not make much attention but his loss is massive. I talked a lot of big talk how I would not want another puppy any time soon after Jodi. How I had my hands full with the kids and the house and it would be a little bit of a relief not to have one more living thing depending on me all the time. Yeah well....that was a load of CRAP!!!!!! We are dog people. We need a dog in our life. I can not stop myself from walking to the back door every night to let our dog in. I need to hear the breathing of that sweet gentle soul at night at my feet while I watch TV. Oh Ginny will be swallowing her words in no time and we will be embarking (no pun intended) on a new adventure ( not yet, but soon). Yet, no other dog will be able to replace or even come close to competing with my first baby.
Sleep well and peacefully Jodi Boy.....
We miss and love you........

My baby

2010-01-18T13:28:00.002-05:00

My baby, my puppy, my first child, my confidant, my friend, my pal......Jodi........died this morning at the ripe old age of 12. He was our first baby. We got him 10 months after we got married. Chad bought him for me as a mother's day gift. He has always kept us safe, watching over me and the children. He has lived in 5 homes, and watched four babies enter our lives. Through it all, his sweet manner stood by my side through it all. He was always up for a game of fetch and could hang with my right until the end on a good run. My children loved him dearly and do not know what our life was like before our sweet dog. I can not remember that either. Over the weekend, he got very sick very fast and this morning we had to take him in to the vet. He could not walk of even lift his head and Chad and I both knew it was time to give him peace.
Sweet sweet Jodi you will be horribly missed and you have left a hole in our lives that can not be filled. Sleep peacefully and run happily and freely. Chase all the balls you can and eat every loaf of bread you see. We miss you already.......

A good feeling

2010-01-10T12:53:00.002-05:00

I went to church this morning with the kids in tow but no Chad. He has to work I had told myself I would only go if everyone was up and ready well before 9am so as not to stress me out. (It can sometimes be hard getting the entire crew out the door on my own.) Making excuses why I should not go is very easy for me. As I lay in bed this morning parts of me wanted to just stay there, snuggled deep down in the warm covers. My children had another idea. By 8:10 they were up and three out of four had already decided thy were going to church and were getting themselves dressed. Huh? Who would think? The kids made the decision for me and I got up and going as well. We ate breakfast and trotted off to church. And I am so glad we did. I always leave church with such a wonderful and peaceful feeling in my soul and I needed that today. In the midst of the craziness we call everyday life, it is so calming to be able to sit and just be for one hour a week. So thank you to my children for motivating me this morning and giving me the chance to recharge for our week ahead.

summer break

2010-01-08T16:55:00.002-05:00

being stuck in the house with it being super cold has made me think about our summer vacation and what type of vacation we want to take. we normally head to the beach for a week. sun, beach, ocean, pool......yum! however, after just coming home from snowshoe makes me think a little harder about our next trip. do i need to graduate to 3 bedrooms? is a king bed or ocean front worth the extra money? decision, decisions, decisions....wouldn't it be nice if we were just made of money and we could scoot off on vacation at the drop of a hat and not worry a bit about the money or extras..........i will be sure to keep everyone updated on the decisions, as I know you are all waiting with baited breath!

Good times

2010-01-07T19:53:00.002-05:00

homework.....good times in the Gill house.....since the promotion to third grade, the homework has become intense and shows no signs of letting up....it takes Bear at least 45 minutes a night to complete his work PLUS Logan's homework...add in entertaining Cooper and Parker and trying to keep them out of their siblings way and you have one HUGE PARTY!!! I feel very outnumbered when I am trying to help with homework, cook dinner, entertain 2 children, and drive to and from all the various afterschool activities.....I shudder to think how it will be in two years with all four in school and homework galore....

SAHM

2010-01-06T15:31:00.002-05:00

What in the world would my kids do if I was a working mother? They have only been back to school for 3 days and I have already gotten 7 calls from SCES with my children needing something. From notes to clothes to lunches and more, they just expect me to drop everything and bring them what they need. In fact, if I do not do that, I get yelled at by the child who needed something. I got yelled at today by one of them because I forgot to pack his lunch (he has not packed lunch in 3 1/2 years) and I was supposed to KNOW he did not want soft tacos today and telepathically realize he wanted me to pack his lunch. What a rude awakening they would have if I was not able to stop the world for them. Sadly, their father thinks very similar thoughts. Maybe they learned it from him.

pics of snowshoe

2010-01-05T11:14:00.001-05:00

pictures of christmas

2010-01-05T11:11:00.002-05:00

Updates for the new year

2010-01-05T11:01:00.002-05:00

I haven't posted in awhile but I am going to try and do better. I guess you could say that will be one of my resolutions....
Anyway, after this post, I will put some pictures of our christmas and ski trip on.
Our christmas break was wonderful. The kids really enjoyed their time off and Chad was able to take a huge chunk of time off with us as well. Parker got his ALIENS that he wanted and the others got fun stuff as well. The big present from us for the kids was a family ski trip to Snowshoe.
So, on Monday morning, we packed up the car and headed off to the snowy mountains for 5 days. It snowed everyday we were there and the slopes were perfect. Fresh powder everyday and COLD COLD COLD!!!! We put all four in ski school and attempted to spend some time to ourselves skiing and enjoying the time. Funny thing is, the entire three hours off ski school, Chad and I spent going down the bunny slopes checking on our little skiers. I mean come ON! What is more cute than kids in ski school? Nothing I would say.
The first afternoon was a bit tricky. We had this idea in our heads that was not very realistic. Chad and I finally had to agree that we were simply outnumbered. We could not possible attempt to ski with all four at the same time. SO as good parent do, we adapted and changed our course and had a wonderful rest of the week. By the end, Logan was going down the big lift and not falling and Coop was almost ready for it. Parker was a wild man and simply strapped on the skis and headed straight downhill, not a care in the world as to how to stop. Bear was cautious as usual but really started picking up the snowboarding. He even let Chad take him down a SMALL slope on thursday.
All in all, it was a fabulous week. The time was filled with laughter and smiles. Everyone got along and enjoyed the family togetherness.
We had such a wonderful time that we are already planning for next year's trip.

snow in richmond?

2009-12-18T13:14:00.002-05:00

so it is supposed to snow here this weekend. some forecasts are calling for up to 9 inches in some areas with 5 being the average for our area. I can't help but get excited for the snow. Something about fluffy white flakes falling from the skies brings out so much joy. I really hope it does come to fruition, after all the hype. I would have to admit I might be as disappointed as the kids if we only get rain. Luckily, I have all the snow gear ready since we are headed on a family ski trip after Christmas. No sleds though but we will make due. So, keep those fingers crossed that the weathermen are right and we will get some pretty white snow for the holidays.
We have the clothes, the hot chocolate, the firewood, all ready.........now all we need is some fluffy white precipitation!
COME ON SNOW!!!!!!

ZOND4ME

2009-12-08T14:52:00.002-05:00

THis is what my license plate reads. Only two of my good friends got it. I have had to explain it to most everyone else. No I do NOT like the Zone Diet, no I am NOT into basketball (well yes I am but that is not what the plate refers to) It means I am in a ZOne defense myself. One against four....you know I love my license plate but I really hate that I have to explain it to folks. Kind of takes the fun out of it, ya think????

Slacker

2009-12-07T20:01:00.002-05:00

Been a slacker lately, I KNOW!!! busy busy busy as always....pretty tired of saying it and i am sure you are pretty tired of hearing....too bad....you chose to read the blog! hehehe, kidding.....
just shy of 3 weeks until christmas and I have almost finished all my shopping. now to wrap and bake. It will all get done in time, as always and hopefully the kids will enjoy this christmas.
off to bed now though cause this mommy is tired.....
maybe I will get around to posting more tomorrow.....we will see.....

Same story different day

2009-11-19T14:51:00.002-05:00

I am really sure I have posted on this topic before but I find myself at my wits end yet again with my older children. They can not seem to get along to save their lives. And I do mean to sav their lives, as I am about to pull my hair out. They fight and pick and bicker from the moment they wake up till the moment they go to bed. I am beginning to feel like a horrible mother and I am not sure what to do. I am finding myself yelling and shouting far more than I ever want to. I do not want to yell and fuss at my children. But as of right now, not a morning goes by without at least 3 arguments, 2 punishments, and 1 defeated mother. Nothing seems to work. I have tried bribery, punishments, lectures, rewards, chores, you name it and I have tried it. I feel undone and worthless and exhausted by 9:20 and the day has barely even started. What am I to do with them? No one warned me of this part of mothering. Shoot give me the terrible twos, temper tantrums, and potty training threes any day of the week over this mess.

tired

2009-11-17T16:52:00.003-05:00

I am tired this evening. Why I ask myself? What is it about being in the house with sick children all day that makes you tired? I did not accomplish an over abundant amount of things today. I did not do anything extraordinary. I did not cook an absolutely scrumptious homemade meal or clean out entire rooms. So why am I so tired? Could it be the 7500 trips up and down the stairs for drinks and food for Logan? Could it be the 45 games of Ninja I played with Parker? Could it be the 17 loads of laundry or the mountain of dirty dishes in the sink? Maybe the in and out and to and from of the dog? Whatever it may be, I hope I have more energy tomorrow.

Thought it might be funny

2009-11-11T15:13:00.003-05:00

i thought it might be funny if I posted wht a post would loike before i edited it. soemtimes my fingers to tyoing dso fast that the words run together and the letters do not go togerther as words. I have so much to say and m thoughts are running together AND i have such limited time that i try to get everyithng down in such a hurry. sometimes, even after the check, i still post with errors. THE I feel the need to go back and fix the post becasue heaven forbid shoulf people see what my typing really looked like.
So, if I was typig this post and did not go affter myself and spell check and edit for typos THIS is what it would look luke.
Thanks goodness for spell and grammer check, huh?

halloween pics

2009-11-06T21:51:00.002-05:00

here are three of our halloween pictures. Barrett was Harry Potter, Logan was a Dragon Ninja Lady, Cooper was Mitchie from Camp Rock, and Parker picked a Ninja (yeah I know that was not in the list but it is what he picked!) The first picture is after trick or treating before bed. Pile up on the chair!

Oink!Oink!

2009-10-27T12:45:00.003-04:00

Everyone has it, there is no avoiding it.....the Swine Flu. Here is my question? How worried should I be? I hear all the news and warnings from the health departments and the schools but what can we really do? There is no way to keep our children and selves from becoming exposed short of quarantining ourselves in the house all winter. I do not know about the rest of you but this is NOT an option for us. In our neighborhood alone, 4 boys in 1 1/2 weeks have come down with it and I can not think of a family I know with children that has not been affected. Bear is home now with it but what I want to know is how scared should I be? I mean I think the scarier idea is that it will spread through my family like wildfire and I might be stuck here for quite sometime. AAAAHHHHH! That is a scary thought.
I guess on the upside is I might get to post more often on my blog????

updates

2009-10-21T20:43:00.002-04:00

So it has been awhile since I posted but nothing really major has happened. The kids get up, they go to school, I run around like a crazy woman trying to accomplish more than humanly possible, they come home from school, homework, karate, dance, gymnastics, scouts, dinner, showers, stories, and bed. That is about what each and everyday looks like in the Gill household. Throw in doctor appointments and meetings and it is one big party. I keep wondering when things are going to calm down a bit then I realize with four children and a super busy husband, that is not going to happen for quite some time. In fact, by the time it does happen, I will probably not know what to do with myself or my time.
However, I do have some free time now. The house is quiet, children are bathed and in bed, dishes done, kitchen clean, backpacks packed for tomorrow, Chad is out. I could catch up on work, post on my blog BUT I could also go to bed. I choose to hit the sack so
GOODNIGHT and SLEEP TIGHT!!!

What to be?

2009-10-07T15:14:00.002-04:00

What do you want to be for Halloween?
One would think this would be an easy enough for a child . However, when presented with all the options, I think it is way to overwhelming for a three year old. Barrett is set, decided. The girls have only changed their minds 3 times and I have ordered the latest choice so they can not change again. Parker, on the other hand, is a mess. He has NO IDEA how to choose from all of the fabulous options out there. I have already purchased one costume and he has already chosen 6 other options. Luckily, we have several in our closet but knowing my child he will be adamant about the one costume I do not have come October 31st and it will be too late. So far the choices are:
Wolvarine
Batman
Spiderman
Ben 10
Power Ranger
Peter Pan
Scooby Doo
Pokemon
These are the ones from THIS WEEK.
What to do, what to do????

Clothes

2009-10-05T15:10:00.001-04:00

I think I might have posted about this in the past but boy and I frustrated. I went Back to SChool shopping for my Logan this weekend and could find NOTHING. They do not seem to make any girl clothes these days that do not make my little girl look like she should be working the streets at night. We went to 7 different stores in a few hours time and came home empty handed. What am I supposed to do? She really does need more to wear to school than her one jean skirt and a fancy dress. HELP!!!!!

Black Belt

2009-10-05T15:04:00.003-04:00

This weekend Barrett tested and received his Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do. He has been working towards this goal for over 2 years and we are so proud of his accomplishment. His Aunt Bethie came up from NC to witness the event and two of his buddies also tested the same day. The day was long and stressful but WOW was it worth it. I can not express the joy I experienced seeing all his hard work and determination come to such a peak!
Job well done Barrett!

Small Problem

2009-10-02T16:39:00.003-04:00

I have a small problem and it is called not getting anything done. I thought that once the school year began and 3/4 of my kids were gone all day I could get a lot accomplished. I was so wrong. Now that I have just Park home and I get NOTHING done, zip....zilch.....nada...... It is beginning to be a problem. I feel like I have all day and Parker and I piddle around until the bus arrives back home and have nothing to show for it.
Example:

What Got Done Today:
chess club
gym
Starbucks
Children's Museum
McDonalds
Krispy Kreme
Bus Stop

What Needed to get done today:
laundry
cake baking
clean house
put clothes away
bank
finish fall clothes project

Do you see the problem?????

anything cuter

2009-09-25T13:23:00.003-04:00

tell me the truth? Is there anything cuter than a boy and his cape? Parker found this Batman cape yesterday and has not let it out of his sight. My only fear is it might not make it to Halloween with all the love he is giving it. I remember Barrett going through the phase of dress ups and I think Parker is entering it now. I LOVE that phase!!!!!! Hopefully, there will be lots of pictures to follow........

Week 2

2009-09-16T15:11:00.002-04:00

Week two is officially half over. I hope everyone out there in blogland has had a good week so far.
I was able to get everybody where they needed to be so far this week without much problem. Luckily, wednesday are down days. No after school activities (at the moment, Coop will start gymnastics in 4 weeks) so Park and I decided to take a down day as well. He trotted off to school and I cleaned up two rooms in the house, took a HUGE load to Goodwill, hit Starbucks, picked him up, and we stayed put for the afternoon. Being a Stay At Home Mom one would think I get a ton done around the house but today was the first day in WEEKS I was home most of the day. I got so much accomplished, read a magazine, and relaxed for a moment. Days like these make me want to stay home each day so I can accomplish everything on my list but that is not possible SO I relished the quiet time today and tried to prepare for what lay ahead of me the rest of this week. Karate, groceries, appointments, etc..........

First Week

2009-09-13T22:00:00.002-04:00

Our first week of school is under our belt. Everyone seems happy and content with their teachers and like their schools and their surroundings. I tried to get myself into a good routine the first couple days, checking backpacks, packing lunches,homework, etc. This week will start to be the true test because all after school activities begin this week, We have Daisies, karate, jazz, and cub scouts. I hope my idea and concept works well enough so as not to have such hectic afternoons. I HATE feeling crazy and hectic and rushed in the afternoons and evenings and then feel so disoriented the next day. With that being said, it is now my bedtime. I have checked and sorted backpacks and folders, packed lunches and snacks, and have clothes ready for tomorrow. I am now off to bed so I TOO can have a good start to the week. Wish me luck!

First Day of School

2009-09-08T20:12:00.002-04:00

Today was the first day of school for my oldest three. Bear is in third grade, Logan is in second grade, and Coop is starting kindergarten. All three were bathed and in bed early last night and up dressed and ready to go with lots of time to spare this morning. Park and I got everyone to the bus stop on time and waved goodbye as they climbed on and headed of to another year of learning and friends and recess and school lunches. After the bus was gone, I looked down at my Parker and things seemed really weird. For the first time in motherhood, I had only one child for an entire day. What are we going to do to fill the hours until everyone returns? I don't know about the rest of the year, but today we certainly found ways to fill it. Park loved being an only child and i felt so free to do whatever I wanted. I could not have imagined how cheap McDonalds is for lunch with only ONE CHILD. $2 dollars and he was fed and happy! I miss my babies BUT I still have one with me and we are going to have a great year!

Rested and recharged

2009-09-08T20:08:00.002-04:00

Chad and I ran our half marathon this past weekend. We got to spend three nights and 3 days at Virginia Beach with each other and no one else, except for the 22,000 people running the Rock and ROll Half MArathon, BUT no kids were with us. We enjoyed the time and had a great race on Sunday. I ran it in my goal time and cut 13 1/2 minutes off last year's time. I have to say, I could not have done it without my sweet supportive husband, who looked at me at mile 11 and said, Come on! We need to pick it up if we are going to make it! And gosh darn it we did! No pictures to prove we ran but the muscle are sore enough! It was wonderful and well deserved and gave me a chance to recharge for the start of another school year.

3 down

2009-09-02T15:46:00.002-04:00

We received those precious post cards today. The ones that let the children now who their teachers will be and then the phone calls begin. Calling all the friends to see if they got the same teachers or not. All three got the teachers they wanted so they are overjoyed. We head off tomorrow for orientation and meet the teachers, drop off school supplies, then count down the remaining 5 days until Big Yellow rolls around that corner and all of us Stay at home moms do their jumps and dances of joy and all of the children cry a few tears that the summer is over and school has started again. I hate to admit it but I might shed a tear or two as well. But do not tell anyone.............

Pictures of Great Wolf Lodge and Cooper's Birthday

2009-08-27T11:06:00.001-04:00

Happy Late Birthday Coop

2009-08-27T10:31:00.002-04:00

Cooper turned 5 last week and it took me this long to post about her birthday, signs of the times I guess. She chose this year not to have a traditional party with friends but for hte entire family to go to Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg for the night. For approximately the same cost as a party, all six of us got to squeal, laugh, jump, and splash in the gigantic indoor water park. We had a blast and thank you my little coopster for picking such a fun adventure. Pictures soon to follow......

Supersize Family

2009-08-27T09:58:00.002-04:00

Now I do not claim to have a super size family compared to some.......I do not have 8,10,12 or more children BUT in today's society I seem to have a pretty large family. We do not fit in a regular car, we need a giant booth or table at a restaurant, we take up an entire row at the movies, and we do not fit in a regular hotel room. This last one was pretty eye opening to me just this week. We wanted to go to DC for a night to see the museums and zoo BUT could not afford the hotel costs. We were going to have to reserve two adjoining rooms and pay double to room rate just for my family to stay for a night.
Having a big family certainly has its advantages BUT for this weekend and our plans, it has drastically impacted them.

Summer Rain Storms

2009-08-21T14:04:00.002-04:00

We just had a very intense summer rain storm and I was so glad to see it. It means we have to stay inside and chill. It is now Friday and until today we have been going, going, going, so a justified break is a good thing. Unfortunately, like typical Summer storms, it came in like gangbusters and then has seemed to disappear completely. I see Blue skies and no clouds in our near future. It is wrong for me to want it to stay rainy? The minute the sun comes out I feel BAD about staying indoors. I feel like I should be rushing off to the pool and park or somewhere outside instead of chillin' inside. Maybe if I keep the tv on for a bit, the kids will be too entranced in the television and will not notice the sun.
Uh oh, spoke too soon, now they are all clamoring for their suits and towels and I think off to the pool we are headed.....

Preparing

2009-08-17T14:53:00.002-04:00

Well we have three short weeks left until school starts again This year I have to prepare three children for elementary school. That is right. Somehow, little Coop is old enough to start kindergarden. So in three weeks and 1 day, big yellow will come rolling around the corner and I will be left at the stop with only one little hand to hold. Am I sad? Yes but so happy as well. My little girl seems so ready to go and become her own person. She talks about teachers and homework and everything she will see and learn. What am I going to do all day with only one child at home? Who knows? Maybe I will be able to accomplish the unpteen million projects I have thought about and started over the course of the past few years. Whatever, I do plan on doing....I am going to relish my freedom for a few moments first, that is of course after the tears have stopped.

Posting

2009-08-15T22:08:00.002-04:00

I do not have much to post about but I felt the need to post something. Quite funny though because it is Saturday night and Chad and I are sitting in our jammies across from each other checking and typing on our computers. What a sad world I live in. I guess as said in A Bug's Life,
" This is my lot lot in life. It is not a lot but it is my life."

Setting Good example

2009-08-11T16:45:00.002-04:00

In this day and age of over eating and super sizing everything, I think it is more important than ever to set good examples for our children. I started it last year by signing up for a half-marathon and this summer decided to try my first triathlon. Well, on Sunday, the hottest day of the year, I completed my first ever tri. My parents, my super amazing husband and all four kiddos were there, braved the heat and cheered me across the finish line. Oddly enough, the minute I was done, I was more concerned about keeping the kiddos cool and hydrated than myself. I guess I never will completely step out of the mommy role. Anyway, the comment I loved more than anything on Sunday was Parker looking up at me after just crossing the finish line and asking me, "When I am bigger can I run with you Mommy?" I don't think I could set a better example for them......what do you think????

Fountain Fun

2009-08-05T15:08:00.002-04:00

I took the three younger kids to the fountains at Stony Point Mall today to burn off a little extra energy. They had a great time and I was able to use the 25 uninterrupted minutes to catch up on emails and phone calls. NOW Coop has a friend over and all four are playing happily in the back yard. GO Figure, they do it on a day that I do not have that much to catch up on or do. Isn't that always the truth? On days I NEED time, they won't give it to me even a bit but on days where I need less time, they give it to me in bundles. Not only that, but I finished my book for book club last night so I do not even have something good to read. Oh well, I decided to use the time to catch up on photos and my blogs that I like. Lucky you guys, you get three posts in just as many days.
Heck, I could be on a roll.....

Terrible Twos, Not so much

2009-08-04T09:16:00.002-04:00

Everyone talks about the terrible twos. They speak of all the crying and whining and temper tantrums that come with being two. WELL, I beg to differ. Twos in this house were just fine. We did not have a problem with twos with any of the four children. NOW, threes are a different story in the Gill House. Parker has certainly hit the threes in full force.
Prime example:
Mommy: it is time to go out to dinner!
Parker: Yeah! I want to go.
Mommy: let's get in the car.
parker: NO!
Mommy: Do you want to go to dinner?
PArker: YES!
Mommy: Do you want me to pick you up?
Parker: NO!
Mommy: Please get in the car so we can go.
Parker: NO!
Momy: I am getting in the car.
Parker: DON"T LEAVE ME!!!!
Mommy: Do you want to go?
Parker: YES!
Mommy: Get in the car!
Parker: NO!!
I then grabbed him kicking and screaming because he wanted to go but did not want to be carried to the car.
Just another day in the life.....

Daddy Days of Summer

2009-08-04T09:09:00.002-04:00

We had another Daddy day this past Sunday and things went great. We went to Jamestown. I must admit, I was a little concerned as the day began. We headed out as the further we got from Richmond and the closer we got to Jamestown, the harder and harder it rained. For a little while, Chad and I thought we were going to need an ARK to get to the settlement, not just a ferry. WE kept looking out the car windows and trying to come up with an alternative plan but we stayed true to our original course and were rewarded for doing do. We stopped for lunch and after eating, the skies cleared. Well, the skies did not CLEAR but the rain stopped so we were able to continue on to our destination. We saw the settlement, ships, and indian village. The children got a lot more out of it than I expected and we had a fabulous time together as a family. These pictures are of the children trying on the armor and on the Susan Constance ship.

Back from the beach

2009-07-28T10:43:00.002-04:00

We are back from the beach and had a wonderful time. The water was clear, sand was soft, temperature was pleasant, accommodations were perfect and everyone got along. I could not ask for anything more out of a vacation. Chad and I were able to play and be with the kids and it was fabulous. Here is one of my favorite pictures of the kids, an attempt at a family picture. At least all four kids are looking at the camera and have some sort of fun expression. In fact, I absolutely love this one because you can really tell a lot about each of their personalities by looking at this photo.
Have a look.....

Time for the Blinker

2009-07-15T15:21:00.003-04:00

I would like to say that we are about to turn the corner on potty training in this house. I would NOT say that we are turning the corner, BUT the corner is in sight and I think I feel the need to at least turn the Blinker on, we may be THAT close. He is beginning to tell us and try and take care of thing himself, so we will see. We are headed to the beach next week and things may go horribly awry. In fact, that alarm might start sounding, you know the one that lets you know the blinker is still on but you haven't turned? We will see!
I am looking forward to seeing what is around the corner for my little guy........

going, going, not quite gone

2009-07-06T08:46:00.002-04:00

going, going, going, not quite gone.....diapers that is. Potty training is still an adventure here in the Gill abode. Parker is trying but things are not looking promising for being a diaper free household anytime soon. Keep your fingers crossed! Gotta run to the potty, AGAIN!!!

4th of July

2009-07-06T08:38:00.004-04:00

This year we decided to participate in the Brandermill 4th of July parade by building a float with two sets of neighbors. We planned and talked and shopped and came up with a great idea for a float. We spent Friday afternoon and evening decorating and hanging out with our friends and then bright and early saturday morning we took off on our homemade float to drive down Brandermill parkway tossing candy to the onlookers. We had a such a fantastic time and in fact won an award for Best Neighborhood Float. Unfortunately, because I was on the float, I was not able to get a picture of it. I told my friends that I was now worried about next year, because we certainly set the bar very high.
After the parade we came back and had a neighborhood potluck picnic and headed out for some fabulous fireworks. All in all, it was a wonderful holiday and it made me appreciate where we live and how amazing our neighborhood and community is.
Our Fourth was certainly filled with good friends, food , and fellowship.........I could not ask for anything more!

Daddy days of Summer

2009-07-06T08:32:00.003-04:00

Last year Chad was less than excited about our church situation so he began what we starting calling Daddy Days Of Summer. Each Sunday, Chad would pick a location or outing for the family to go on and we would spend the day together doing things we might not normally do. It was a huge success and the children were jumping up and down excited when summer began again because so would the Daddy Days. Last week, we started slow and went to Putt Putt, Bumper Boats, Go Karts, and the park. We had lunch out and had a wonderful time playing with the kids. This week we went out for our favorite lunch then headed off to the Science Museum for the Shark exhibit. The kids had so much fun and I had a hard time pulling Chad away as well. We then scooted home and had milkshakes and movie night. Everyone spent the day chatting and playing and amazingly there was very little fighting. We are looking forward to next week and where it will take us next.

Potty Training, in full force

2009-06-29T08:25:00.002-04:00

I started Potty training Parker about a week and a half ago and things are in full force, for me at least. It is not going quite as quickly or as well as my others did but he is the last of four and I can not quite out things on hold as I did with the others. I mean I would have never had my other ones out and about in underwear 3 days in but here is Parker, trotting along in his Cars underwear, everywhere we need to go! I bet you can not imagine just how many trips to public bathrooms I have made in the past 10 days? Good thing I am not a germaphobe! Send me happy dry thoughts this week as my hope is to finally have an accident free day!

Been awhile

2009-06-25T18:04:00.001-04:00

I know it has been awhile since I last posted. Seems that summer has gotten into full swing in the GIll household with very little free time for mommy to get on the computer. I guess it is not free time we are missing it is uninterrupted mommy time I am lacking. Right now I had a moment because Chad is working late, AGAIN and I am single mommin' it so I am letting the kiddos have dinner in front of a movie.....
Sadly, I started this post on Thursday and now it is Monday morning and I am just getting around to finishing it. So sorry! Anyway, we survived the single mom night with a quick easy dinner and a fun trip to Barnes and Noble for all to purchase a new book to read.
Now it is Monday morning and things are quiet for the time being. The older two are at summer school for the morning and the younger two are still asleep for probably only a few seconds longer, in fact I think I hear footsteps......
Anyway, we started our Daddy Days of Summer yesterday. We needed to stay put in the Richmond area with a potty training three year old and Chad was feeling under the weather. SO, we hit got donuts and went to the park. Then went for lunch and then to Putt Putt. There we golfed, rode go-karts, and bumper boats. FYI, you get very wet on the bumper boats, especially if you have to ride with the three year old who controls the squirter the entire time. So we all piled in the car soaked and happy and came home for yummy hamburgers on the grill and Cold Stone for dessert. We had the kids bathed and in bed at a very reasonable time and then called it a day. For the first Daddy Day, it went well but I am looking forward to bigger adventures and plans from my husband as the summer progresses. I guess he just needed to get his feet wet...hehehehehe...........

a LONG twelve weeks

2009-06-10T16:38:00.002-04:00

Today was the of the last three half days before summer break starts. I thought it would be fun to take the kids out for ice cream as a special kick off the summer treat. If the drive to and from there is ANY indication of how the next 12 weeks are going to go, shoot me know! Put me out of my misery because it is going to be a REALLY LONG SUMMER

LAST 30 hours

2009-06-09T15:12:00.002-04:00

So in the last 30 hours, I have run 3 1/2 miles, exercised 50 minutes on stair machine and elliptical, taken kids to and from 2 different schools, three different grocery store trips, made spaghetti sauce (2 times), burned finger, 2 swim lessons, guitar lessons, bathed 4 kids, got glasses adjusted, karate, second grade picnic, two fast food stops, cooked lots of different breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 2 dinners......and a whole lot more that I can not even remember I am sure, all with only two trips to STARBUCKS!!!
Pretty good, huh?

Potty Training, not quite yet

2009-06-04T14:54:00.003-04:00

I know it is about time to start potty training the ParkMan but I am still not quite ready. Everyone around me is doing the same thing with their children around the same age as him but I am so nostalgic for my last one. There is something so precious about a little diaper butt in footie jammies running around the house. How do I give that up? I keep telling myself that I am waiting for things to happen, trips to be over, children to be home from school, or children to NOT be home from school. However, I am steadfast running out reasons why I should not do it. I guess I am going to have to bite the bullet, take the bull by the horns, and jump in.
Then again, we are headed out of town next week, I am sure it can wait just a little longer.
I PROMISE, as soon as we get back......

Countdown begins...

2009-06-01T14:53:00.002-04:00

10 total days of elementary school left.....
9 days left to walk to the busstop.....
8 days left of school for Cooper....
7 days left watching Sam, the neighbor....
6 full days of school left for the kiddos....
5 teachers gifts to buy......
4 days left of school for Parker....
3 early dismissals.......
2 class picnics.....
1 preschool graduation....
AND,
0 time for mommy.......
bring on summer break!

Coming to Peace with Bickering

2009-05-27T13:14:00.002-04:00

Chad had a book he read a few years ago that really changed his attitude toward us as a family. At least for a little while it did. Once work got crazy again and life started to fly by he resorted back to his old ways. I chose to read sections of the book to see just what it said to see if I could get as much out of it as he did. I only read a few chapters but one stuck out. It talked about as a parent, you had to find peace in and accept bickering as a part of life and children and move on. Don't let the little fights take over your day and stop trying to micromanage to solve every little issue. Sounds pretty easy, right? Simply ignore the little things and move on. Well I have been trying to do so and have been pretty successful until the past few weeks. I do not know if the patience has waned OR if the little scuttles have become larger and more frequent. I believe it is the second. Things have escalated so much I have had to resort to yelling on a few occasions which is really against my better judgment. Prime example came last night. Logan and Barrett were yelling at the top of their lungs, "those are mine", "no they are not", "yes they are", "no they are not"..........on, and On, and ON!!!! Louder and louder and louder until I cold not take it any more and I had to shout, "BE QUIET!" You could have heard a pin drop. Mommy does not normally yell but I just could not take it anymore. OVER PENCILS, mind you.
So, I ask you, is this really my lot in life and am I just supposed to come to peace and accept it?
Give me strength if that is the case.....

Fun Weekend

2009-05-26T13:20:00.003-04:00

We had a really great memorial Day weekend. We had a date night, out of town guests, and cookout and swimming with Mimi and PopPop. Unfortunately, Bear did get the stomach bug during part of the holiday but he was a trooper and was ready to go by MOnday. We headed to Mimi and PopPop's pool for some well earned swimming fun. Cooper can finally touch this year, Yeah for her (and me!) and Parker strapped that life vest on and took off. I think this year should be a really good year for me at the pool. Last year was a little crazy with Bear and Lo darting off to be with friends, Cooper not being ale to touch, and Parker sprinting every chance he got and simply jumping in with no care in the world. Now at least he will have a vest on and Coop can touch. I was also able to get a very rare picture of me with the kiddos and a great one of them and their daddy.
We had an awesome date night with another couple friday evening and then had guests come in for Saturday night. WE ate, drank, talked, and relaxed.
Could anyone ask for a better weekend?

God Bless Walt Disney

2009-05-20T13:59:00.002-04:00

I love Walt Disney! Because of him and his wonderful imagination, I have been able to do many MANY things today, catch up on emails, clean kitchen, plan Parker's bday party, post on my blog, AND look at a magazine. Both children are happily and QUIETLY ( quiet being the key word) sitting on the sofa watching a disney movie, an old classic one that mine have not seen before and they are spellbound. Thank you Walt for your wonderful gift that you have given all parents......

Fun Friday

2009-05-15T14:54:00.002-04:00

We have had a great friday so far. Best part about it is no tears ALL MORNING. Can you believe I just said that? That is right! NO FIGHTING and NO TEARS!! Crazy, huh? In addition that that wonderful treat, we went to the gym, lunch, zoo, and Rita's. Now Cooper has a friend over and Parker is happily entertained. Do I dare get my book and settle down for a but? Nnnnaaahahhhh, it is not likely to last much longer but it has been a dream so far. Keep all those fingers crossed it will continue just a bit longer:):)

Quiet

2009-05-12T14:54:00.002-04:00

I do not wish away these years of my young children. I do NOT want them to grow up any faster than they already are but is it a little too much to ask for a few minutes of quiet during the day? I have two girls who each talk more than their mommy, (which those of you who know me could find very surprising that it is possible) but now to add to the mix, my youngest is coming into his own with conversation skills. I start my morning with talking and it continues nonstop until the last one falls asleep. Not even the last one in bed because they still find several ways to talk to me from their rooms.
Yesterday, Chad had taken the older two for guitar lessons and I had the younger two. I wanted to get some fresh air so I decided to take them for a walk around the neighborhood. The mouths started moving before we even left,
"Where are my shoes? Can Jodi come? Where is the leash? Can I walk him? No, Can I walk him? Where is my sweatshirt? Will I need my sweatshirt? Why are you wearing your sweatshirt mommy? What shoes are you wearing mommy? Where did daddy and lo and bear go? When they be back? Where are we walking? Can we go yet?" All before we walked out the door.
THEN, the conversation really started....." Mommy look at that tree! Come on Jodi! Let's go! Why is Jodi a dog? Why does he have a tail? A ROCK! A Puddle! Look Mommy WATER! When is it my turn to walk the dog? Why does he need a leash? Which way are we going? Is james home? Is Ajai home?"
On and on and on for the entire walk, which took a little over 30 minutes.
I LOVE the exploration and the wonderment they see in the world. It is priceless, but so are five minutes of silence.

dinner rut

2009-05-11T14:58:00.002-04:00

I am in such a dinner rut, what to fix, what to fix? Same old chicken and ground beef. If I have to see one more hamburger or grilled chicken I think I might SCREAM!!!!! I am just not in the mood to become adventuresome BUT I am so not in the mood for the same old meals. I need simple and quick and easy and very limited ingredients. What is a girl to do? Any ideas??????

In a rut

2009-05-08T16:18:00.002-04:00

I have been in a rut lately. Same old routine, same old food, same old obligations. I am starting to look forward to summer for the change of pace and routine. I have taken a few new classes at the gym to spice things up but still muddling through. Maybe I need to higher a personal trainer and personal chef to make things more exciting. Imagine, everyday not having to plan, shop, or cook your meals AND have them be super delicious each day. Sounds like heaven. Now all we need to do is win the lottery. Huh, very slim chance on that happening because I do not even play. Oh well, off to make some pizza for dinner, TRYING to be different. Let me know if you have any good tips on changing things up.........

Happy Birthday Barrett

2009-05-05T16:20:00.002-04:00

Today my little boy is turning nine years old. He is certainly not a little guy anymore. When measured this morning, my first born rose above my chest, almost to my shoulders. My little guy does not ride in a booster seat, he walks to friends houses by himself, and attends cub scout meetings and campouts. No longer does my little guy cuddle up in my arms and ask for a story about a bear or a dog. Now it is a book to be read by him to me about Stars Wars, Pokemon, or Football. He is quickly growing into a confident strong kind compassionate young man that makes me smile everyday. What happened to my little boy?

New Nephews

2009-04-29T15:42:00.002-04:00

I ran out of time last weekend but wanted to post quickly to let everyone know out there in blog land that my sister in law gave birth to two little boys on Friday morning. Gray Matthew and Baylor Hall came into the world at 6:44 and 6:55 am. They are doing well, still in the NICU but not critical. They have taking positive steps each day and are closer to coming home. I got to go in and see them on Friday evening but no holding yet. Hopefully, we can go soon and cuddle with them.

This diet STINKS!

2009-04-21T19:37:00.003-04:00

I am HUNGARY!!! yes, HUNGARY!!! I am determined to lose the last five pounds if it kills me but as of late it feels like it is doing just that. I keep telling myself that I can do anything for ONE MONTH. Hang in there for ONE MONTH! It is only ONE MONTH. Well, this ONE MONTH STINKS!! OF course the more I try to watch what I eat, the more food opportunities are placed in front of me. What is a girl to do? I have made a commitment to myself to stick to it for one month and if then I have still not lost the 5 pounds, then to heck with them! They are here to stay. Because really, life isn't about dieting everyday, it is about enjoying it everyday. AND, what better way to enjoy life than to eat all the wonderful foods presented to us.......

Babies

2009-04-20T13:37:00.002-04:00

This beautiful weekend was spent mostly celebrating two of my family members and their upcoming babies. One is having her first and it is a little boy and the other is having her third and fourth (yes twins!). It was wonderful to share in these women's joy with the impending births. It did however make me a little nostalgic for my own babies, which my children are not. They are growing thriving little kids, some not even that little anymore. I was watching as these women prepared and it caused me to think back about what I did to prepare for my own births. I got a little sad thinking there would be no more little ones but then I started thinking about how far we have come and how close we are to being able to really take off. We are a few short months from being able to hop in the car and head out for adventure. No stroller, no naps, no sippy cups.... freedom to do and go where we want without having to bring a little one along. I instantly began planning what we would see and where we would go. All that is ahead of my family. Those thoughts made me feel very full and happy inside. My family and heart are complete and it is such a wonderful feeling. No that is not to say I won't want to steal a baby snuggle here and there but I now always want to give them back.

FYI

2009-04-14T13:07:00.003-04:00

I know a posted some over spring break but I wanted to post now and fill everyone in what we have been doing for the past 10 days. We spent lots of time at home playing and relaxing. The kids played outside any chance they got with the weather. I was able to make it to the gym a few times and even out to lunch a time or two. Imagine the looks I got when we entered the restaurant and I said four children and one adult. We had an egg hunt and dyed eggs. Chad took Friday off and we took the family for a hike at Pocahontas State Park for the morning then ate snacks and drove out to Amelia to give Mimi here birthday present. We then scooted back to town, enjoyed a yummy pizza dinner, milkshakes, and movie night. That was our family day! YEAH! Saturday and Sunday we spent a lot of time outside again, battling the clouds and wind, and visiting with my parents. The kids went to Build a Bear and spent a small fortune there and were treated by Nana and Grandaddy to lunch. Easter Sunday started with a visit from the Easter Bunny and squeals of delight over the gifts he brought. Then, off to church, brunch, and then home again. We stayed put for the rest of the day enjoying family time. Monday came around and more errands and appointments were to be attended to but now it is Tuesday and things are back to normal. All in all, it was a wonderful Spring break and does not make me too scared for summer break.
Which, by the way is in 8 1/2 weeks.........

Holding Hands

2009-04-14T12:48:00.002-04:00

I feel like a terrible mom these days when it comes to holding hands. I LOVE holding hands, with just about anyone but lately it has become a very uncomfortable thing to do with my Cooper. She tends to hold my hand just right so the skin is stretched and pulled in a very painful way and then she proceeds to pull down as well while trying to pull herself up. We went on a hike over break and it was very evident. I kept having to pull my hand away to give it a break. Am I a terrible mom or what? I mean really, I should LOVE holding her hand and try to do it as often as I can right now because I know she is not going to want to do it much longer but it HURTS!!! She is so petite that he height does not help at all. If she were a bit taller, I believe it wold not pull as much. Now I guess I just need to hang in there and wait for a growth spurt. GROW BABY GIRL GROW! But only enough for the hand holding problem to be fixed, not an inch more.......

Day Three

2009-04-08T15:17:00.002-04:00

So I have pretty much survived half of spring break so far. We have certainly had our moments but for the most part, I think the kids have had fun. They have allowed me to go to the gym twice and I have taken them out to lunch twice so all our happy for the time being. I am looking forward to Daddy being home for a long weekend but not to the rain they are calling for. We had planned to take a day or overnight trip somewhere as a family but might have to put off this decision for better weather. So, three rainy days in the near future with all six of us in the house. What is a girl to do? Any suggestions????

The Start of Spring Break

2009-04-06T17:09:00.002-04:00

Today is the first day of spring break, but I do not lie to really call it spring break because it is no break for me. it means all the little ducklings are home with mama duck, with their peck peck pecking demanding this and that and everything. This morning started off with screams, fussing, yells, tears, doors slamming, and then more screams and tears. The day followed this routine until an hour ago when by the wonderful grace of GOD the sun started shining and they went outside. I cold actually see the rays of sun breaking through the storms clouds and could have sworn I heard the Hallelujah chorus! It was the most glorious sight I had seen in days. What is it about outside that calms even the most savage beast? Whatever it is, I hope it stays around for awhile, at least until school is back in session.

Fun Mommy

2009-04-01T13:27:00.002-04:00

Well today I decided to do something a little different. I trade days with another mom at Coop's preschool so we have the girls every other week. Last week, I picked up Coop and the mom had devised an Easter egg hunt. Huh...... the girls had a great time and the mom seemed to be very involved. Now, normally, I feel like I am a good involved mommy but when friends are over I simply let them play. I do not have a bunch of structured activities because I feel like the activity is the friend. But after last week, I felt the need to step up my game so as not to be undone. Anyway, I decided to let the girls dye Easter eggs for fun. I boiled them up, made the dye, then let them at it. WOW!!! I could not imagine it could be so fun and take so much of the day. Hopefully, after they are done, they can go back to playing without me. Who Knew??????

Now what?

2009-03-30T13:43:00.002-04:00

So now I am trying to decide what to do. I ran the Ukrop's 10 k this weekend and did a great job. I finished in the time I wanted and my friend and I had a wonderful time running it together. But now what? I have been focusing and training for this run and now it is over and I am a little disappointed. It is kind of like that feeling the day after Christmas, when all the presents and meals and family times are over, decorations need to be put away, and things are just all of a sudden plain again. That is how I felt right after we ran the Rock and Roll Half Marathon last summer but I had school and surgery and craziness to curb the ho-hum feelings. We have decided to run the Rock and Roll again this year so pretty soon I will have to start training for that but until then, I guess it is just go to the gym and try to maintain the fitness level so this summer's training will be easier than last year. I went to day and did something different to spice it up, we will see how it goes. Ho hum.......

MeMe

2009-03-26T14:54:00.003-04:00

First of all, what does this term meme mean exactly, I mean it tends to be lists of different things but what does it MEAN???
Anyway, I was reading one of my favorite blogs and it tagged us in an interesting meme, it is called Guilty as Charged. She asked for a list of this you could be admit to doing that you might not be proud of but still do. Here is mine:
Guilty As Charged:
1. I am often found on the computer during quiet time instead of doing household chores and then complain about not having enough time to get things done
2. I very quickly use the TV to babysit my children when I am trying to get things done
3. My 4th child is spoiled, but hey I do what I gotta do to get through each day
4. I often lock the bathroom door and spend more time than I need to to have quiet
5. I hold onto the wall when weighing myself just to get a little extra help
6. I tell my children i will be there in a minute and hope to take so long that they will forget what they needed and have moved on
7. I purchase nonfood items while at the grocery store so they can be counted in the food budget
8. I bribe my kids to finish tasks, behave, keep quiet, etc.
9. I drive to the bus stop because i am too lazy to get my kids ready with shoes and coats.
10. I cannot for the life of me call my children by the correct name
Let me know, what are you guilty of????

Slacker

2009-03-25T16:42:00.002-04:00

Okay, so I just realized this afternoon that I never posted about the big slumber party. Sorry about that, I am sure you have all been waiting with baited breath to hear how it went........well, it went really well. All the girls had a wonderful time and there was some sleeping going on, not as much as normal but more than I expected to occur. At one point, one little girl looked at me and said this was the best birthday party she had ever been to. She must have really low expectations. Anyway, all the girls were well behaved and there was no drama....imagine, six girls and no drama.....I know I should mark that day on the calendar because it will probably never occur again. Logan loved having her friends over and they were wonderful to Cooper and included her in everything as well. We had the Family party on saturday night and then the week long birthday bash came to a close......until next year for her......and six weeks for her brother.

Tonight's the night

2009-03-20T16:36:00.002-04:00

Tonight is the night of the big slumber party. Logan has invited 5 girls plus her and her sister to a total of 7 little girls spending the night here tonight. I am really looking forward to watching her interact with her friends. Unfortunately, I have to run quite a ways tomorrow and I am not sure I am going to have much sleep tonight but hey, it is worth it for my girl. They will be arriving shortly and I have scheduled events for most of the evening. I have talked to many and they say it can be a piece of cake. Wish that upon me tonight.....a piece of cake, and not the piece Parker got too, smeared around a bit, licked the icing off, and then threw on the floor.

One Day Late

2009-03-19T15:09:00.002-04:00

Well my birthday post for Logan is one day late but I guess late is better than not at all.
My big girl turned 7 yesterday and has turned very quickly into quite a grown young lady. I remember when she was so tiny, sweet, and cuddly and I could scoop her up and protect her from the world. Now that is not possible. Everyday she gets more and more independent and wonderful. She is such a sweet, compassionate, caring, spunky little girl and I can not wait to she how she continues to grow. Just remember, my sweet little girl, you are still Mommy and Daddy's baby girl and will be forever. I love you and Happy Birthday to you! ( a little bit late :):):) )

Frazzled

2009-03-16T15:18:00.002-04:00

Have you ever just woken up frazzled? I mean you sleep well, feel well rested to start the work week, but for some reason things just don't start right. That was me this morning. I cannot put my finger on it but things were not smooth sailing in the Gill household this Monday morning. Plans were changed at the last minute, tears were shed over shoes and drinks, books and papers were forgotten.........BUT, I rallied, as all good stay at home moms can do. I ran my few errands, came home and regrouped. Thank goodness! My day was not a total loss, I got some very good things accomplished, even with the start we had. I think what made it better was the triple venti soy nofoam hazlenut latte. For some reason, it tasted better today then it has in a really long time. Maybe it was the fact that it was made for me as a treat to sooth my nerves. Whatever it was, it hit the spot and now, smooth sailing! What time does Starbucks open tomorrow???????

Little bit sad

2009-03-13T14:59:00.002-04:00

I just got a little bit sad this afternoon thinking about next year, Cooper going off to kindergarten and then the thought of being alone in 3 years. Now I know some off you say stop right there because three years is a LONG way off but here me out. What makes me a little bit sadder is pretty soon I will never have a two year old again. Some may think this is a blessing but I for one feel sad. I LOVE the twos as a stage and age. My boy is fun, energetic, naughty, impulsive, creative, snuggly......... all wonderful things. You never know what is going on when you see that impish grin but hang on because it is always something! It is such a fabulous ride to be on, having with a two year old.....

special nights

2009-03-10T13:56:00.002-04:00

We started something last year and we have to decided to start it back up again. It has taken me awhile to get it going again but we have started this week. We call them special nights in our house and here is how it goes:
Each kid gets one night a week (hopefully the same each week so as easy for mommy to remember) where they are allowed to stay up an extra 15 minutes after lights out and play with mom and dad. We will do whatever they want except watch TV. NO SCREEN TIME! We can play games, color, even sit and chat but it is one on one on one time with that child on their night. THEN, here is the best part, on Sunday nights it is Mom and Dad's night so they have to hit the sack on time or a touch early so we can have time with each other.
It works WONDERFULLY!!!! It seems to solve so many of the typical bedtime routine troubles that once we started doing it again, I could not remember why we stopped. The children really crave that face time with us and with a larger family finding that time is very tricky so here is a simple way to fix that.
Now I know what most of you guys are thinking, sounds great but there is no way we could fit it into our own schedules. We are just too busy. I would have to bet it could work for you too. Even being so super busy, it seems to give you an excuse to slow down for 15 minutes each day and enjoy your children, which is why we had them to begin with. We ALL have busy lives and schedules but taking that time out certainly teaches our children that they too are as important or even more so than let's say karate, work, ballet, cheerleading, or the hundreds of other things we do each day. Give it a try for three weeks and then talk to me again. Chances are, you will LOVE the idea!

mommy playdate

2009-03-06T15:11:00.002-05:00

I remember when Barrett was very little I joined a playdate. It was a group of 6 women all with children ranging in age from 6 months to 1 1/2. It was such a wonderful time to get together each week and talk and bond with other moms and women who were going through the same things I was. As my family grew and the children grew, this play group thing went by the wayside. I was sad. I missed my mommy friends. Well luckily I have found some new mommy friends who I have been able to hang out with again. We all have children ranging in ages but we have still gotten together and been able to chat and share our days. It has been wonderful.......

FREE AT LAST

2009-03-05T14:16:00.002-05:00

So the kids went back to school today after the wonderful three day snow break. Unfortunately, the older two had a two hour delay which meant I took the younger two at 9am and could not take the other two until 11am and then had to pick the younger two back up at 12pm. So, I had about 45 minutes to myself. But hey, I am not complaining, I IDID get to make it to the grocery store alone. Well not really alone since all of chesterfield was there as well. Tomorrow the younger ones are home again but next week should be a fresh start to a good week. SCHOOL EVERYDAY!!!!!!! AND, it is supposed to be very pretty weather. Wouldn't you know it, we finally get some good snow then it turns 70 degrees three days later. What to do what to do!

Logan G., First Grader

2009-03-03T12:37:00.003-05:00

Those of you with elementary age children are probably very versed in Junie B. Jones books. My kids love them. One of Logan's favorite is Toothless Wonder, well now we call Logan:
Logan G. First Grader, Toothless Wonder.
I do not believe there is anything cuter than a young child with no front teeth.
What do you think?

Certainly not a toothless Uncle Lou!

The Big SNOW!

2009-03-02T22:38:00.003-05:00

So we had a really big snow last night and today. We got almost 9 inches here. It was the first time in a super duper long time we have had a good snow here in Richmond and my kids loved it. We got a snow day from school today and tomorrow. YEAH!!!! I love snow days more than any other holiday because I feel it is truly a gift from God and you are supposed to go have fun with it. Take a break and PLAY......and that is what we did. We ate homemade waffles, played in the snow, walked the neighborhood, made an attempt at a snowman, built a snow wall and drank hot chocolate. We were also able to catch up with our neighbors for a last minute happy hour because of no school tomorrow. Many would say a day off of school is not a day off for mom but I really had a great time with the family. Chad even closed work. So, thanks for the gift.......

Wildlife

2009-02-26T15:28:00.002-05:00

So I am sitting calmly talking to my neighbor and Cooper comes down. She is quietly trying to get my attention and I am casually dismissing her until she finally says in a pretty tiny voice, "there is a bird in my room?" I look at her and say , "A what?" "A bird, a Bird" Huh, so I excuse myself from my neighbor and scoot upstairs to try and see what she is talking about and sure enough there is a bird flying around her room. So I calmly close her door and begin to chase the bird around the room with Barrett's laundry basket trying to catch it. I then trap it and call for Cooper to bring me a cookie sheet and as she opens the door, the bird escapes. I then get it trapped in the tiny bathroom and have to take a breath. I close myself into the bathroom and try and figure out what to do. I call Chad and he says to open the screen to let him fly out. So here I am trying to force open the screen and this birds darts back and forth at my HEAD, diving and fluttering this way and that, dive bombing me every few seconds. I cannot get the screen open so I end up trapping the bird in a trash can between the screen. I have to then call to Cooper who really has to think for a minute before coming in the bathroom to bring me something to slide between the screen and the trash can. We get a cookie sheet, slide it in between and then carry the bird and all of its glory outside to fly away free. Huh, it sure did seem much bigger in the bathroom......

yummy

2009-02-20T14:26:00.002-05:00

My house smells super yummy right now....there is something so soothing about a hot pot of soup on a cold day to make all your worries and cares drift away. So, I dumped all the ingredients into my crock pot, mixed them up, and turned that sucker on. Now all I need is to chop up the toppings and slice the bread and Dinner is served! After that, jammies and snuggle on the sofa with my favorite people in the world for popcorn and a movie. I could not ask for a better Friday night.

cold

2009-02-19T14:54:00.001-05:00

I am cold......we have had our heat on the fritz for several weeks now and I am OVER IT!!!!!! Serves me right for trading a kitchen for heat. Hopefully with the guys here today it should be fixed soon. However, as I sit at my computer in four layers of clothing and slippers, I am still cold. The knowledge of them upstairs gives me little warmth.

Good Point

2009-02-18T12:36:00.003-05:00

I was reading at one of my favorite blogs yesterday afternoon and was fairly impressed by one of the stories she wrote. It really raised some questions and good points. It is a blog I have spoken about before for people who have larger than normal familes....ie, 3 or more kids. Here is the link for you to read:

I do not know if the link works, but it was worth a try for me. Anyway, the story is about the lack of good television shows for us to watch as a family. SOmething I can I sit down with my children and look forward to watching every week. Also, there are no sitcoms that portray larger than normal families that are NORMAL. Families of 3, 4, maybe 5 children. NOT 8 or more. Let me know what you think.....

Which would you choose?

2009-02-18T12:31:00.002-05:00

Okay, here was my quandry this morning. I went to the gym to work out before Park had his beast class. When I arrived, I was notified that they had no hot water. Huh! I was to take a shower at the gym before beast class. So here was the decision I had to make, take a cold shower at the gym and be warm and toasty afterwards OR take a warm shower at home and be cold and frosty afterwards. I chose the later but am regretting it a little now. (FYII, our heat is not working in the house so it is very chilly at home these days, we cannot get it above 60 degrees at any given time; hence the chilly me after the shower)
So I am asking you guys out there, which would you choose????

trying

2009-02-17T13:48:00.002-05:00

I am doing my best and trying to continue to update my blog as much as possible but I have seem to run out of stuff to write about. How boring is that! My life is the same old same old each day and I am NOT a fan of posting gripes and complaints about all the hectiness (if that is a word) of our lives. So, if I still have some readers out there, let me know that you are there and I will keep on trying to find something to post about.......if not, than you would not be reading this anyway!

Happy VALENTINE'S DAY

2009-02-13T15:36:00.001-05:00

One day early, I know but I do not think I will get a chance to post tomorrow so......
I hope everyone of my readers and friends out there have a wonderful day tomorrow filled with loved ones, candy, good food, and smiles. That is how I plan on spending my day........

Push me higher

2009-02-11T14:24:00.005-05:00

Love the weather! The kids and I have spent a lot of time outside enjoying it. Scooters, playhouse, sandbox, and swings. What is it with swings? Kids LOVE them! Push me higher are the three words I have heard more than any other today.......
could the day get any better:):):)

88

2009-02-10T14:54:00.001-05:00

What is that number you might ask? It is the number of valentines we had to complete for the four classes in our house. Whew!! i guess it will I was lucky Parker has only 12 in his class......