Wilson Family Christmas Letter 2009

Well here it is the end of another year. Why does it always seem as if the days fly by faster and faster???
This year has been very exciting in late February we brought home another family member… a dog! That’s right a beautiful chocolate labrador. Dustin has wanted one for the longest time. His name is Aero; he is the best dog ever. The kids just love him, although they do wish he was a bit smaller so they could walk him. Along with Aero we have been brought into the interesting world of dog shows. Aero is a show dog and has already won a few ribbons. Its one weekend every few months, although there is a lot of work that goes on before hand. Chocolate labs are known for being hyper and are easily excitable; it takes a lot of work to get him to stand still for short periods of time.
The twins Payton and Clayton turned 5 this year. Which means school full time. They go to school everyday all day long. We have put them in separate classes and will continue to do so. Payton is very shy and it took her awhile to warm up to her teachers and classmates. Clayton on the other hand has embraced the school experience, although he does wish there was more play time.
This summer Faith turned 8 and is in grade 3 this year. She is such a mother. When getting on the school bus she makes sure Payton and Clayton get on before her, she checks to make sure they are on the bus at the end of the day. Although she is taking after her mother in the attitude department more and more.
Nathan is now 3 and home all alone with mom. We’ve been keeping busy with swimming lessons, playgroup, play dates and lazy pj days at home. He’s taking a liking to Thomas the tank engine and the Land Before Time movies. He’s the typical little boy and gets into everything!
In July we FINALLY went on a family vacation. With my family spread out all over Canada it has been along time since we’ve been together. We drove 12 ½ hours straight to Alberta. We spent 5 wonderful and busy days there. There were 8 kids ranging in age from 2 to 11, and 6 adults it was a very full house. The only person missing was my dad and I’m sure we’ll visit him in the future.
Along with visiting family Dustin and I got a weekend away together. We haven’t had any time away from the kids together ever. So it was nice to go too the states and shop and watch movies and even pee without someone asking “what are you doing?” Thank you to Dustin’s dad and Marilyn for watching the kids. I hear there were some laughs, some crying and some broken furniture.
From our family to yours Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas 2009

The Wilson Family
Dustin, Tenille, Faith, Payton, Clayton, Nathan and Aero

www.enchanteddreamstravel.com

So I thought I would plug my friends travel agency. She loves Disney and travels there frequently with her family. She's done Disney World, Disney Land, Disney Cruise. You name it she's done it.

I know for most people going to Disney is a once in a lifetime event, for our family it will be. We are waiting to go when Nathan is old enough to enjoy it. I know I'm going to want to get the most out of it. All the secrets of getting on the good rides, what is a "fastpass", what do I HAVE to see while I'm there. If you feel the same way then check out the website enchanteddreamstravel.com. She's very personable and I know she'll be able to help you.

One time she did a presentation at our mom's group, I had NO IDEA that there was so much to see and do at Disney. I didn't know that you should bring a backpack with water, and snacks and that bandaides where expensive once you were in the parks. Going to Disney by the seat of your pants is o.k but the more you know the better experience you'll have.

Halloween Mario Bros Family

So another Halloween has come and gone. The kids all had fun and got more candy then they really need. We ended walking around with friends. The kids only made it half way down the block. It was alittle cold out but hey no snow, no rain, no storms.

I spent alot of time and energy getting pictures for the pumpkins this year. I go all out and do them up nice. I've always been one to do more with the pumpkin then just put a face on. So a couple of years ago when I learned how to properly decorate the pumpkins I've been improving ever since. So what happens halloween night??? Some snot nosed, piss head kids smashed them down the street! I was SO pissed off. They are lucky I didn't catch them.

All in all halloween was a good night. Faith was Mario, Clayton was Luigi, Payton was Princess peach and Nathan was Bowser, all home-made costumes.

October

Well now that October is almost done, I think that we are in the swing of things. The kids are in school full time now. Swimming is going really well. Nathan swims like a fish lol.

I find myself wanting to nap or eat or watch tv. I have to find other things to do with our time. Nathan needs to be around other kids, I need to do things. Dustin likes to say things like " well you're home all day", "well it's not like you have alot to do" while both statments are true that doesn't mean I need to be active all day lol.

I have finished all the halloween costumes! Yeah! it took me so long to finish Nathan's; his had alot more work to put into it. All the kids are a theme this year. I know it sounds corney but I think it's kinda fun. They are the Super Mario Brothers and friends. Faith is Mario cause she LOVES him and red is now her favorite color. Clayton is Luigi, I think it's mostly to do with Faith not allowing him to be Mario lol. Plus it's the only other boy. Payton is Princess Peach, although her dress is off white, but she doesn't care. Beta can't guess who Nathan is??? Bowser, although Bowser wasn't called Bowser until later verisions of the game. But it's the only name the kids know him by. If you ask Nathan he will say monster bowser mario.

So now all I have to do is make about 4 patches of cookies and we're good to go.

Swimming

So none of the kids wanted to do anything this year. They didn't want gymnastics classes, ballet, soccer, nothing. So I put them in swimming. Normally we do it during the summer for two weeks straight. But this summer we were actually busy! I know I was surprised too LOL.

Nathan and I have to go together, just because he's to little to swim on his own. He loves jumping in the pool. I told him Nathan you have to close your mouth. He'd shut his eyes really tight open his mouth and laugh hysterically. Then he'd leap off the side and I dunk him under he'd come up coughing but wanting to do it again. So away we go. It's too funny you can tell who are first time moms. They carefully put their baby in the water and move around slowly.

Payton and Clayton are in the same class. They had a good time. Although I HATE it when there are toys all around the pool. They get distracted and want to play. All they do is talk and talk and talk to their instructor. Good thing there are only 4 kids in the class. But they said they had fun and Payton keeps asking when she can go back.

Faith is in class all by herself and I don't have to bring anyone else with me. She likes swimming and I think once she can "swim" she'll love the water as much as I do. She keeps saying though that she needs googles. But I asked her to try without them, she seemed to do fine. She hates rinsing off. Next week we will see if everyone still likes it.

Birthdays

Well my babies turned 5 yesterday. Wow has it been that long since I've felt them moving around and kicking each other?

At school they get to be the chef for the day. I'm glad I put them in separate classes, they can both enjoy being in charge without fighting with the other one. Each kid in their class made them their own cards. They got to make crowns for them to wear.

I made cupcakes for everyone and while not everyone eat one the twins still enjoyed sharing them. They are so cute! We had a late supper and ate almost all of the cake. It was a fish bowl and they seemed to really like it. Faith had a hard time NOT being the center of attention. She was demanding this and that and the other thing. Every irratating.

They now want to go to build-a-bear and get their very own bears. They both got lego. Payton got pink lego so I think that went over really well with her. They both got a maze and tracing book. I think Clayton will be the one to do most of those lol.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BABIES!

Anniversary

So on wednesday was my 9th year anniversary. Wow can't believe it's been that long. It was september 2000 when I walked down the isle, 100lbs lighter, 9 years younger, kidless and dogless. If I could go back now what would I say to my younger self??? Don't take that job? Don't be friends with that person? Pluck those eyebrows before the wedding pictures?

Dustin and I were young when we meet. It was September on our way to army cadets for the first night of a new year. All young and fancy free. I was 15 and he was 16.

Dustin actually surprised me with a babysitter I didn't have to call and arrange, dinner and a movie. I was alittle shocked when it was the cheap seats, but it was the only one playing the new Star Trek movie. We went to Boston Pizza afterwards. Of course the bomber game was on and they lost again, so the mood of the restuarant wasn't that great.

It's nice to get away sometimes and not have to feed the kids. The movie was good, dinner was good. Next year is 10 years married.... I wonder what he'll do? I have told him its about time I had a family ring since we're not adding any more kids to the family.

New School Year

So I new school year is in infancy stage. Faith is in grade 3 and now has to learn the english language. I've always said she's very linguistic so it doesn't surprise me that she got all her spelling words right. She tries to sound them out but we all know the english language doesn't always work that way. She keeps saying but I don't know english, I don't know the words. She goes to a french school and we speak english at home. She'll be fine, I have no worries about her.

Clayton and Payton are in separate classes. There are only 4 girls, so 2 in each class. There are mostly boys in kindergarten this year. They both made a friend on their first day, but they don't know their names lol. I walked them to the bus stop and waved as they got on. Faith helped them to find their teachers. They didn't see each other all day. I really think this will be good for them to be separate. When they got home I asked if they had fun. Clayton says no, as he's got a crown on his head with his name on it lol. Payton said she only remembers the eating and playing dress up parts lol.

Nathan does not start pre-school this year. He was suppose to but he refuses to potty train. So mom is home with him. He hasn't driven my nuts yet. He can sure talk though. He's always got something to say. When we walked the other kids to the bus he had to have his little backpack on as well. He puts his little snack in there and away he goes. The only way I can get him to come home is by saying lets go eat your snack.

They have stagered entry here. So Faith goes every day but the twins have only gone every other day. Soon they will be gone every day all day. Good thing Nathan and I have plans so I think he'd be bored with me.

Ugh Seriously

O.K. I admit it.... when out walking the dog yesterday with the kids.... I did my best to kill each and every mosquito that landed on me. I looked like a murder victim...seriously. Just think they actually fogged the night before that. How is that possible??? Normally we get mosquitoes all summer long but because of the rain I think we've gotten all summers worth of mosquitoes in one week. They are SO bad its ridiciously already.

My kids are COVERED in bites and they had repellent on. I think they need to fog again or we'll have mosquitoes flying around when the snow comes.

Did you know??? SCHOOL STARTS THIS WEEK!!! BOOYA!

What Summer We Had Is Almost Over

Here are a few pictures of our summer

Wow, summer is almost over. We're only had a few nice days this summer and most of them have been in Sept. Only a few more days and it's back to making lunches every day, homework and getting up in time to be ready for the bus. All but one of my kids will be in school full time this year.... wow it's going to be a really long winter I think.

This summer was a good summer even if it rained for 90% of the time. We went on minivacations, and we got to spend sometime with family.

Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince

The newest movie in the series came out this July. It was good. They hinted at alot of things to come between the main players. This movie was suppose to be alot darker then the previous movies. But really I found the last one darker. You don't even know that Tonk and Remus are an item very briefly does she call him sweetheart that you miss it if you weren't looking

What really pissed me off it that its suppose to end where everyone is in an up roar. The whole school was suppose to be fighting. I was really shocked and alittle disappointed that didn't include this in the movie. When the next movie starts their going to have to explain why everything is chaos.

But I guess if you don't read the books, it was a good movie. It kept moving forward and you didn't realize 3 hours had passed until it's over. Even if you read the books it's still a good movie all in all.

Our Trip

Dustin and I actually got away for a few days by ourselves, no kids, no dog. It was nice. We went to Minot ND for a couple of days. I've only been away from my kids once. That was last June when I had my very first girls weekend. In the past 8 years, Dustin and I have never spent any time away from the kids with each other.

We did some shopping. There isn't much in Minot. They do have a mall but like most malls they have the regular stores and then the stores that are expensive and you only shop in when you have to. The movie theatre there was small from the outside, but once you get into all the tunnels and corridors it really large. It has the old fashioned counters which has their own appeal.

I was surprised at the Barnes & Noble it is much bigger then Chapters and has more of a selection. The lady said that they ship to Canada also. Dustin bought a membership, he really wants to buy their building furniture books.

Needles to say we shopped, ate and watched a few movies. All in all a good weekend

A few favorite pictures from our trip

Family Visit

So for the past 2 weeks I've had family time. My mom came for a visit from Ottawa. My baby brother went to my older brothers home in Alberta. So of course we all had to get together, it's been far to long. I think it's been about 10 or 11 years since we've all been together in the same place.

On Wednesday we left rainy Manitoba and headed west. Drove all night and day to Alberta. It took us about 13 hours. We got turned around in Saskatoon, because Dustin saw a MC D's he had to get too and there was lots of traffic. The kids were really good. We brought alot of movies, coloring books and crayons. I slept most of the way as did my mom. Dustin wanted to drive the whole time. The kids didn't really sleep at all, they were so excited to see their cousins

We spent 4 days in Alberta. 8 kids ranging from 11 to 2.5; 6 adults in a two storey house with a basement. Not so bad. Lots of noise and hardly any sleeping. We went to a petting zoo, monument hill which is basically a hill filled with army cars, tanks, trucks and guns. The kids had a blast racing around climbing on all the vehicles. There was a park and spray pad right outside the back door.

On the way home the kids basically caught up on any sleep they missed. Dustin once again drove all night and day. Doing the trip in about 12 hours. Nathan started to get cranky near the end, but all in all it was a good trip. Last Monday my baby brother flew to Winnipeg to spent a few days with us. We went to the zoo, walks and hung around the house.

On Thursday was their last day here. 2 weeks goes by really fast when you're having fun. Aero spent some time with his doggie friend and his humans. He was very tired when he got home, plus I think he was alittle mad at us for leaving him.

All in all family time is the best time.

Chronic tailbone pain

So for the last couple of days I've been having tailbone pain. How in the heck am I suppose to fix this? It hurts alot. I can normally get it to relax and be not so painful later in the day. But when I wake up in the morning I can barely move. This morning I was trying to sit and passed out for a couple of minutes. Good thing Faith is home. Clayton comes in and says what are you doing on the floor mom.

I think this is worse then last time.

Aero

Well I've been taking Aero to obedience class. There have only been two classes so far. The only problem I have is that Aero likes to play with the other dogs. The other dogs don't want to play with him. He gets distracted and pulls on his leash. Anything can distract him, from fluff flying by, to people, to grass, to smells. It's very irritating lol.

He's also taking handling classes. He's going to be a show dog and earn his confirmation. I've never been in a show ring before. I like most people have watched the westminister abbey dog show on tv. But for some reason I don't think that counts. I think it's a good thing that I'm not the one handling him in the ring. Last night I could barely get him to pay attention. So now we just need to pratice and he'll get better.

Aero has his picture up on two websites, yea Aero!. If you care to take a look, you can get to the sites from my sidebar on the right side. At Azureblue His mom is Emily, look under "our girls" and you'll see him. At Eagertriever his dad is Riley look under "our boys" "Riley" Riley's pups pictures". Aero is the one with the Alberta mountains behind him.

Aero is a lovely pup and well behaved for a 5 month old LOL. Just don't distract him LOL! I couldn't ask for a better pup.

Faith

Well tomorrow afternoon Faith has her grandparents day at school. All the grade 2's have written letters to their grandparents. Since Faith rarely sees any of her grandparents I don't think it's going to be a very long letter. Although we did come up with somethings for her to talk about.

There is going to be an assembly and all the grandparents are going to be there. I really hope Faith's grandfather can make it. He said he might be able too. She's looking forward to it and I'd hate to see her disappointed.

Everyone is suppose to bring some historic thing to show. Their going to have a "museum". I found somethings but it's from my side of the family. We didn't really have anything from Dustin's side and he wouldn't ask for anything. So oh well.

I'm looking forward to it and seeing how everyone does talking in front of everyone else. They have to stand up in front of everyone and read their letter out. The teacher was smart though and got her to write it in both french and english.

Here's hoping things go well.

On a side note, it went really well! Faith's grandpa and baba were there. They went up on stage with her and she read her letter. I totally starting crying. It was beautiful.

But it was WAY to long. It didn't realize it was a whole afternoon long. Not only did (almost) every kid read at least two letters, some grandparents got up and talked to the kids. The kids sang and did some old fashioned dancing. It was very nicely done. Faith had a good time, that's all that really matters.

RAIN< RAIN< RAIN< RAIN

I'm thinking you get the picture. RAIN, RAIN and more RAIN. This week is basically a right off. You know what really makes me angry? We only have so many nice days in the year. Why can't it rain at night and be nice enough to go out and play outside? I'm not saying it has to be California weather or anything, just nice enough to be able to play outside. Last week the cold wind was blowing, we had a frost warning. I don't think it too much to ask.

But Dustin has finally finished everything to do with the fence. I don't think there is anymore he could do with it. Now that he's moved the fence up to make room for his truck to park, he has to clean out the garden that was there. I bet this is going to take even longer.

I guess I should go pick up the kids from school now, but first I have to wake up the munckin.

bye for now

Life

So I guess it's been a few weeks since I last wrote. My birthday was nice. Dustin and I went out to dinner and a movie. We saw the new terminator movie. It was good, but felt like a filler movie. It's filling the space between the last movie and the next one. It had very good graphics and a good cast. I know there will be another one and am looking forward to more of a story and more on John Connor.

Faith's 8th birthday is coming up.... when did she get to be so big. I've been letting her ride her bike down the back lane. She has a friend at the end of the lane and he likes to ride his bike with her. It's very cute. She also has to check and double check to make sure she can go in his house. Even if I said it's o.k. At least I have one kid who listens.

Aero the dog is loving his new yard. He can run and run without being on the leash. I like it but still don't leave him there by himself.

We're all done pre-school for the year. The twins were very glad/sad to see it over. Their going to love being in school full time next year and going on the bus with Faith every day. Faith also has her grandparents appreciation day coming up. Her grandpa Wilson might actually show up. That will be nice cause normally it's just me and the kids there for those types of events. Which is really to bad cause I know my mom would LOVE to come.

Nathan is alittle bugger and got out of the house tonight. Thank god he ran down the street away from the park. The park you have to cross a busy street first. He opened the door, climbed under the fence. My back lane neighbour found him and brought him home. I had just gotten Faith. I'm so thankful nothing happened. Faith was freaking out and ran down the street when she saw him. He can do all the other "bad" things he wants.... I really hope I never have to go through that again.

May is over and June is just beginning. Soon school will be out and we'll have the carefree days of summer.

Interesting Bit Of News

It's 24 more days till my birthday!!! That's right! No I'm not having a party, damit! My husband is not creative enough for that. On my 30th birthday, his brother got married the next day. So Dustin was like this is your party too *NOT*. On a side note luckly I have really good friends who through me a surprise party I was completely surprised!!!

Anyways I just wanted to share the news cause even if I'm turning 32, I still act like a 12 years old counting down the days!

Out Of The Mouth of Babes

Ice cream is cold.... like life as said by my almost 8 year old.

Photoshopping

So for a while now I've been playing around with photoshop and trying to teach myself. I think I've done a really good job. What do you guys think??? For some reason the pictures are in the wrong order... but I'm sure you've figured that out already LOL So start at the bottom picture and go up.

Too Much To Do Today

HuH! I have so much I need to do today, but here I am on the computer instead. What is it about the computer/facebook/blogging that makes people drop everything and spend hours looking at??

I must say that I love facebook. I have contacted so many people I've lost touch with. I may not *talk* to them everyday but I can see pictures or read up on their lives. It is very convenient and I can do it on my own time.

This saturday is the used toy and clothing sale for my Y-Neighbours group. If you're in the area come out, message me and I'll give you the address. I need to bake for it. I need to get all my things together for. But there really is no reason to put everything in the van yet. I'm helping to run it and I've organized it. My biggest fear is that we'll have little to no one there. That would really suck.

I can hear my youngest in his room playing with is toys. He's pretending some toy is the easter bunny. He's been talking so much lately it's very funny. We've also been venturing down the potty train choo choo, or should I say poo poo lol. Have I ever told you how much I HATE POTTY TRAINING!!! Now he's saying upside down and standing with his bum in the air and his head on the floor. Gota love 2.5 year olds.

My second oldest has decided to hate pants all she wants is a skirt and a shirt, or dress and pantie hose. Boy she doesn't take after me. Maybe she takes after her father more??? lol just joking.

gota go.... apparently it's movie time

Finish the quote

Just having fun today and wondering what everyone would say.

Nothing says lovin like....

Quote of the Day

"When your children are quiet.... it means they are doing something that you would not approve of"

I'm sure all you long time mothers out there know that, this is just a reminder, or if you are a new mom..... learn this quote. Your kids will pratice it daily!!!!

Randomness

Easter weekend.... talk about a really long weekend. Good Friday.. no school, Easter Monday..no school. I really don't remember getting this much time off when I went to school. I used to have to walk 5 miles to school in a snow storm up hill lol... no I didn't.

So I talked to my mom last night.... My brother and her are getting ready for their trip out here in July. Yea! very exciting! Then we're all going to Alberta to visit my other brother and his family. It's been along time since we've all been in the same place. I think when Colette was born in '99???

Dustin went out and helped sandbag a friends yard yesterday. He's really glad it was just their culvert and not the whole house. Hopefully the river settles down soon and we won't get evacuated. But let me reassure you... I won't be staying back worrying about worrying about my house. It's just stuff... stuff that can be replaced. The only stuff I would worry about is the pictures, and maybe the computer. The kids, dog and husband are a givein.. of course I would get them out.

My mom's group used toy and clothing sale is coming up on the 25th of April. I'm in charge of it and I just hope we get people out to shop and it is a success. I also have the twins group toy and clothing sale coming up this weekend. I really need to get modivated to sort and tag all my clothes for this one. I'm also volunteering and will be there all day on saturday. Long day, very tiring. But I do enjoy volunteering there.

The kids are having a semi-good day....... no major melt downs, no hitting and screaming. It's raining out today. I'm hoping it clears up some and we can go outside.

I really should clean up all the dog poop in our back yard. I swear this dog poops more then normal.

That's it for today... have a great Easter Monday!

Spring Break Is Almost Over

Well well well it sure felt like a long week... spring break is offically over today!! yeah! on Monday it's back to normal.

Here is a low down on what we did..
Monday- walk- took pictures-fought with the kids to go to bed
Tuesday-walk-had quiet time-fought with the kids to go to bed
Wednesday-went to the mall-quiet time-fought with the kids to go to bed
Thursday-kids played downstairs-quiet time-finally kids go to bed
Friday-walk-kids playing downstairs-shopping

Fun week wasn't it... Although there was more in there.... more fighting, coloring, watching movies, more fighting. All in all it's making memories as a family.

I can't wait for summer to be here and I can just throw 3 of the kids outside to play, no ski pants, boots, mitts, hats, sooner or later summer will come. I'll just keep saying that until it happens.

Pictures

So on Monday instead of listening to the kids fight and complain I decieded to take their pictures. Here are my favorites. It took alot of bribery to get them to do these, good thing I had lots of crackers!

Enjoy!

Spring break

Well it's that time of year again. Spring break... with kids spring break is not the "go to the states and drink break" that it is made out to be on tv.

I haven't signed the kids up for any thing this week. I feel kids should be kids, we spent the morning outside walking. Mind you it wasn't the best walk ever. 4 kids and a puppy do not make for a pleasant walking experience. But it can only get better right??? right? please lord let it get better.

A friend of mine was at the park and we were in the forest next to the park... she said "yeah I heard someone yelling and thought of it must be Tenille" ha ha. I was very frustrated.

So this week if the weather holds and it doesn't get really cold we will be out walking everyday. This dog is going to learn to walk and ignore the kids.

Time to go... someone won't stay out of the bathroom.

Spring break only lasts a week right?

Vet and weekend stuff

Today was vet day. All in all it went very well. But from now on I think I'm going to schedule it when the kids are in school. Thank god it's a small vet hospital and the kids could walk around. They were very fascinated with the garbage can that looked like a polar bear.

Aero did very well and although his ears are dirty there are no concerns. AND NO HE IS NOT FAT! A couple friends think he's fat, but he's a really good size and the vet said he might just be a stockier dog.

I went to a social on saturday night. I haven't been out like that for a bit, had a couple of drinks and felt really tired all sunday. I only really danced once and my knees were so sore. God getting old sucks.

Well since it's spring and the annual flooding is taking place, just like every other year. They are now saying that the flooding is going to be worse then it was in '97. "Oh yeah the flood of the century it will never happen again." that's what all the experts said back then good thing they built a new flood way.

that's it that's all for today see ya

Finally

After more then 4 years I get to see my mom this summer. Although I have been promising her this for a couple of summers now, Dustin has finally said yes.

So I called her yesterday, After the terrible month she had this is really good news for her. I'm super excited. If you've done the math then you know I haven't seen her since Aug'04. My kids were born in 'june 01, sept '04 and Nov '06. So yeah she had only meet one of my kids.

Then she said that my youngest brother is coming along too. Although he's buying he's own plane ticket. It has been way to many years since we've all been together. Lets see....'99. I believe is the last time all of us have seen each other at the same time. Everyone will be there except my dad. I haven't seen my dad since Faith was 6 months old.

This is a huge deal for me and I'm really excited. Although now that Chris is coming we don't have room in our van to drive to my brother's place in AB. So hopefully his family can make it here. I'm super excited!! Now I just have to plan on how I'm going to fit 8 kids and 6 adults into my small house.

BOOYA! this is going to be great!

Kindergarten

Wow I can't believe that my babies are starting kindergarten in the fall. Last week I signed them up. I found out that there are going to be two classes next year. Wow for an all french school in a small area of the city, that is alot of kids. The school is going to have to add on more additions.

So the question becomes to separate them or keep them together. Normally schools like to separate them. I get a twins magazine from the states. There are moms in there fighting legislation to make it parents choice. I never really gave it much thought, being as our kids go to a small school.

But I really pushed Dustin to agree to separation. I think it will be good for them. Right now they always do everything together. I think getting their own friends, peers and experiences is what's best for them. They will not always be separate at some point during middle school or high school they will share classes together. But I'm sure at that point they won't like each other lol.

I really hope the school follows my lead in this and if not; well; then I'll just push and bug them to get what I want... not like I've never done that before lol.

Getting Better

Well this morning I did not have to listen to Aero barking/whining this morning. Which I'm very thankful for... the only thing is I slept in LOL. How funny is that?

The kids have finally settled down. They no longer run when trying to escape him. Which is a good thing. They've all learned to sit on the furniture instead of the floor.

Yesterday we actually ventured out. In the morning the kids had gymnastics. Which is only an hour long but it's still 15 minutes there and back. So as far as I know Aero was good. He wasn't whining or crying when we came back. Then in the afternoon we had playgroup. That was about 2 hours. Still Aero did very well. So this morning we're headed out again. I really hope he does well again.

He has already learning to sit, stand, come, wait and stay. Soon he'll be able to do tricks. I wonder if he'll learn to catch Frisbee's?? I guess time will tell. He still has alot to learn.

Meet Aero Wilson

Well here he is. This is Aero. I think he has adjusted very well. Although Monday was a very messy day with runny messy poop. I guess puppies tummies can get upset when they first come home. He's a good pup and the kids just need to listen. They think it's funny when he comes running and jumping at them. Oh well more time outs for them. He does get cranky first thing in the morning and will yelp to be let out. Very annoying when one is trying to sleep. Other then that he's done really well.

New Puppy

Well he's here finally. After all we went through to get him. Aero has been very well behaved. I think now that he's *used* to us he's starting to misbehave. He's been barking/whining in the kennel lately. Very annoying at 6:30 in the morning!

The first night we had him. I took him out to pee every hour to an hour and half. He would pee every time. Only one accident in the house so far. It's almost like having another baby... but with doggie breath.

The kids have been in many times out since Aero came home. Clayton just doesn't get it. He keeps backing up and laughing hysterically. Nathan runs away yelling "don't bite me". Aero has already pants Nathan a few times. Nathan gets so mad and comes running to me. "Daddy, daddy jammies" (yes he still calls me daddy). Payton doesn't really want anything to do with him. Faith won't leave him alone and always follows him around. If one of us takes him outside to pee she has to come too. "Can I walk him now?" she says it about 20 times a minute until you finally give in.

They all do love him expecally when he's sleeping. They all come over to pet him and Nathan even laid down beside him and cuddled. It was very cute. Dustin has actually helped out, which I was alittle surprised that he would. Both nights Dustin got up and took him out to pee. This morning, Dustin was up before the alarm and took him out.... mind you Aero is a very good alarm all by himself lol.

So pictures to come soon. I have to get them off the camera first.

Wholly stress week from hell

On sunday we made the 1 hour trip to visit the breeder. We were there for about an hour. The kids were excited and sorta running around and would run from the very excited puppy. She said things are good and the puppies are ready to go home on Saturday. We set up a time. We actually named him. Later that night she e-mails me with "concerns". She's not sure on the kids. We were very up front with her from the beginning. She knew we had 4 kids their ages everything. She approved us weeks ago. She thinks I won't have enough time to devote to the proper training of the dog. He's suppose to be a stud dog, go through dog shows all the requirements for studding. Man was I mad! I know she's concerned and she's had puppies returned in the past. But we are the only ones who know how much time we are willing to devote to this pup. I was so mad that she would say in front of the kids puppies are ready to go on Saturday, then turn around later and say well I have concerns. Well if you have concerns fine but then don't say anything in front of the kids.

Now we find out that the sire failed his hip and elbow exam. The sire is not her dog and is actually the dog of a breeder friend of hers. In large breed dogs this is a very important exam and must be passed in order to breed sound healthy dogs. I think the sire was breed to early (less then 2 years old) and now she wants to sell the dog as pets only. Which means they will be neutered. I know Dustin wanted breeding rights. The question now becomes so what does this mean for the puppies and us? She is thinking of still showing the dogs but neutering them afterwards. I think if we still show him it's a good learning experience for us and nothing is lost. Then in a couple of years when we get a second dog, we'll just be that much more wiser.

I received an e-mail from her yesterday and this was the first time she actually mentioned the pup by name. Normally she calls him "our blue collar boy". I think it's too funny that we couldn't have a show dog but a pet dog is fine.

So hopefully on saturday we'll have a new bundle of joy. Keep your fingers crossed for us.

Kids are so funny

So last night I fell asleep watching tv in the living room. Dustin was watching the Raptors game in the bedroom he fell asleep. This was after the three younger ones were in bed already. Faith was down stairs playing on her computer. At some point I knew it was after 8 and Faith was still downstairs. I thought Dustin was still awake, he thought I was still awake. Faith comes up to me and says goodnight mom. o.k. I thougth she was going to bed. No she goes back downstairs, turns all the lights off and curls up in her sleeping bag and goes to sleep. Now she's thinking this is a great idea, she can FINALLY sleep downstairs right! Little does she know that I ALWAYS check them before I go to sleep at night. Dustin just happened to wake up and check on them and goes to get Faith and finds her downstairs. She is too funny. I've been threatening the girls that I'm going to make one of them sleep downstairs one of these days. Of course she's all for it and gets mad when I won't let her. I bet she's been planning this for awhile. Funny girl!

Booya!

It's the weekend!!! I get to sleep in, that's all I'm really looking forward too LOL.

I hope it's nice this weekend. I'm getting alittle cabin fever. On Sunday we get to go see the puppy for the first time. I'm really excited about that. I hope he likes us or this is going to suck LOL.

Wow one week since my last post

Has it been that long really??? wow. I've been so wrapped up in reading this really good series that I haven't let myself have any free time.

If you haven't read Twilight and the other books in this series new moon, eclipse and breaking dawn; you really should read them. You're probably thinking but it's a book targeted for young readers. Trust me, if you enjoy Harry Potter (and I know you do) then you will enjoy this series. It's about Bella Swan who falls in love and has a really strong pull towards the vampire Edward. But like most books there is always a twist she also falls in love with Jacob the werewolf. Every good reading. The book store didn't have the last book. So I had to order it on-line. I really hope I get it soon. I'm dieing to know what happens, although truth be told I did search on line to find out lol. Where there are really no spoilers, but I get the really idea of what happens.

The only thing I hate about reading a series is that I'm so rushed to read through it and find out what happens that the book ends way to early. The next time I read it I'll do so more slowly and will really enjoy the book.

I'm keeping my fingers crossed for getting the book soon.

New Fitness Craze

So forget about the thigh master or boxing. All you really need is a frozen sidewalk, slippery shoes and a hammer; that's right I said hammer; or a bag of salt and a small shovel that fits in your hand.

After yesterdays delightful attempts at putting the garbage out without falling on my ass. I thought of a new fitness craze. Ice walking, smashing ice and salt throwing.

All you have to do is try to walk on a sidewalk or road for that matter; in slippery shoes. It really works the thighs. No sweating, no gym fees, no weird yoga moves. The only thing you have to accomplish is walking the length of the sidewalk 5 times. It's really that easy.

Now for the smashing of ice. Get a hammer/mallet and smash ice. It's that easy. Really works the arms and back. Trust me having tested this out. Plus it helps work out any frustration you might have.

Salt throwing is more for the people who don't want to risk falling on the hard ice or smashing their feet or hands with a hammer. Get a really big bag of salt (the melting ice kind/ not the eating kind). Now stand in the snow near your sidewalk and throw salt all over the ice. Try to get the salt all the way to the bottom without moving your feet. You can move anything else. It really works the arm. Plus holding a 20lb bag of ice is no easy task.

These are all great ideas. It gets you outside for some fresh air and a good workout without having to leave your house and go to the gym. Come on get all your friends involved. You can actually put all of these workout routines together. Here let me give you an example.

Walk to your garage. Cause you know that's where you keep your salt. Don't forget to bring your keys or you'll have to go back. Put on shoes cause boots are cheating. Walking in the snow doesn't count. Walk on your icy sidewalk. It has been raining for two days so the sidewalk has about 1-2 inches of ice on it. Finally get to the garage. Get it open. Bring the salt bag outside and proceed to dispense the salt without moving from the garage door. You don't want to have to bend over each time so pick the salt bag up and hold it. It's good for the back. Now make sure you reach the farthest part of the sidewalk. Now go back inside for 3 hours. Come outside and bring your hammer with you. The salt has melting the ice around each piece of salt, but has managed to make air pockets underneath the ice. Now smash the ice with your hammer. Come on give it a good one. If you want you can bring out a stool for you to sit on. Don't forget to wave to the neighbours who are looking at you like you've lost your mind. Then after you've smashed all the ice. Get your big shovel and shovel all the pieces of ice off the sidewalk. That's your workout. Your done for the day, hooray!!!

If your really inclined to do more... clean out the grate at the bottom of your sidewalk. This way all the melting ice off the street has somewhere to go besides pooling at the bottom of your sidewalk.

That pretty much sums up my day. You get alot of thinking done when your out there smashing ice. At least the kids got to build snow "people" while I was out there LOL.

The groundhog lied!!!!

Well the groundhog lied this year. It said there would be 6 more weeks of winter. Well not only do I have birds living in the birdhouse already but it's raining. Rain in february in Manitoba is not good. It's still too cold for it and basically the city has been shut down for two days now. No school buses running, no garbage pickup. On the news last night two people actually put on their ice skates and skated down the street. So that gives you a basic idea of how icy it is outside.

But last evening it wasn't bad at all. I took Faith to gymkyds and the only icy spot was our backlane. But I guess it got cold in the middle of the night and it was/is still raining.

Is it wrong to make my oldest do her homework all afternoon? My children are going stir crazy having to stay in the house. There is only so much stuff to do. At least with all this rain we FINALLY have sticky snow and we can make a snowman lol. Got to look on the bright side of all this. Yesterday we watched a movie.. played with lego...they played a game. I made cookies for valentine's day. It was a very long day.

Maybe all this rain will get rid of all the snow??? Hopeful thinking or what?

Questions part 3

1. WAS YOUR PREGNANCY PLANNED? no, but the option was there after the twins

2. WHAT WERE YOUR REACTIONS? both happy

3. WAS ABORTION AN OPTION FOR YOU? No way.

4. HOW OLD WERE YOU? 29

5. HOW DID YOU FIND OUT YOU WERE PREGNANT? missed period..took a test

6. WHO DID YOU TELL FIRST? Dustin...kept this one to our selves for a while

7. HOW DID YOU TELL THEM? Phoned Dustin told him he was a naughty boy.

8. DID YOU WANT TO FIND OUT THE SEX? Yes! But was strictly forbidden too. Dustin wanted a surprise.

9. DUE DATE? Dec 3 2006

10. DID YOU HAVE MORNING SICKNESS? yes espcially if I had an empty tummy

11. WHAT DID YOU CRAVE? nothing really

12. WHO/WHAT IRRITATED YOU THE MOST? smell of chicken cooking, couldn't eat chicken.. which is funny cause he loves chicken.

13. WHAT WAS YOUR CHILD'S SEX? boy

14. DID YOU WISH YOU HAD THE OPPOSITE SEX OF WHAT YOU WERE GETTING? no this evened the numbers out.

15. HOW MANY POUNDS DID YOU GAIN THROUGHOUT THE PREGNANCY? not many... still had excess from previous pregnancys.

16. DID YOU HAVE A BABY SHOWER? no.. fourth child doesn't get one :0(

17. WAS IT A SURPRISE OR DID YOU KNOW? no

18. DID YOU HAVE ANY COMPLICATIONS DURING YOUR PREGNANCY? no good pregnancy all around

19. WHERE DID YOU GIVE BIRTH? St. B

20. HOW MANY HOURS WERE YOU IN LABOR? No labor planned c-section. with 3 kids at home and no family/friends to relay on for last minute calling, things had to be planned.

21. WHO DROVE YOU TO THE HOSPITAL? Dustin

22. WHO WATCHED YOU GIVE BIRTH? Doctors and Dustin.

23. WAS IT VAGINAL OR C-SECTION? c-section

24. DID YOU TAKE MEDICINE TO EASE THE PAIN? epidural

25. HOW MUCH DID YOUR CHILD WEIGHT? 7lbs 14oz

26. WHEN WAS YOUR CHILD ACTUALLY BORN? Nov 27 2006

27. WHAT DID YOU NAME HIM/HER? Nathan Riley

28. WHAT WOULD YOU HAVE NAMED YOUR CHILD IF IT WAS THE OPPOSITE SEX? This being child number 4 he was lucky to get a name before we left the hospital. I did want to name him Nathaniel though.

29. HOW OLD IS YOUR FIRST BORN TODAY? 2 years

Questions part 2

1. WAS YOUR PREGNANCY PLANNED? sorta, Dustin said lets make baby number two... oops lol

2. WHAT WERE YOUR REACTIONS? both happy

3. WAS ABORTION AN OPTION FOR YOU? No way.

4. HOW OLD WERE YOU? 27

5. HOW DID YOU FIND OUT YOU WERE PREGNANT? I had a sore neck and went to the doctor, before I could take the medicine she had to know if I was preggers. She did a blood test. I was already 6 weeks along.

6. WHO DID YOU TELL FIRST? Mel then Dustin

7. HOW DID YOU TELL THEM? Phoned Mel. Phoned Dustin and told him he was a bad boy.

8. DID YOU WANT TO FIND OUT THE SEX? Yes! Dustin didn't want too, he allowed it only after we found out it was twins. He needed to be more *prepared* lol

9. DUE DATE? Oct 30 2004

10. DID YOU HAVE MORNING SICKNESS? yes espcially if I had an empty tummy

11. WHAT DID YOU CRAVE? fruit

12. WHO/WHAT IRRITATED YOU THE MOST? smell of chicken cooking

13. WHAT WAS YOUR CHILD'S SEX? girl and boy

14. DID YOU WISH YOU HAD THE OPPOSITE SEX OF WHAT YOU WERE GETTING? no

15. HOW MANY POUNDS DID YOU GAIN THROUGHOUT THE PREGNANCY? Around 20

16. DID YOU HAVE A BABY SHOWER? yes Marilyn had one for me (Dustin's step mom)

17. WAS IT A SURPRISE OR DID YOU KNOW? I knew about it.

18. DID YOU HAVE ANY COMPLICATIONS DURING YOUR PREGNANCY? twins is automatically considered high risk.

19. WHERE DID YOU GIVE BIRTH? St. B

20. HOW MANY HOURS WERE YOU IN LABOR? No labor sorta planned c-section Payton was breech.

21. WHO DROVE YOU TO THE HOSPITAL? Dustin

22. WHO WATCHED YOU GIVE BIRTH? Dustin and a bunch of medical staff. One set of everything for each baby, plus an intern who was a triplet and wanted to watch.

23. WAS IT VAGINAL OR C-SECTION? c-section

24. DID YOU TAKE MEDICINE TO EASE THE PAIN? epidural

25. HOW MUCH DID YOUR CHILD WEIGHT? Payton 5lbs 1/2oz, Clayton 6lbs 2oz

26. WHEN WAS YOUR CHILD ACTUALLY BORN? Sept 30 2004

27. WHAT DID YOU NAME HIM/HER? Payton Hailey and Darryl Clayton

28. WHAT WOULD YOU HAVE NAMED YOUR CHILD IF IT WAS THE OPPOSITE SEX? Let's just say Dustin had a short list of names that he still has. He has each name, meaning, origin. It was hard enough picking any names. I was just excited to agree on the names we did.

29. HOW OLD IS YOUR FIRST BORN TODAY? 4 years

Questions

So this has been going around facebook for a while now. I decided I wanted to join in the fun. But why stop at just the first born? They were all exciting.

1. WAS YOUR FIRST PREGNANCY PLANNED? No not really!

2. WHAT WERE YOUR REACTIONS? me: happy Dustin said" I don't have any money"

3. WAS ABORTION AN OPTION FOR YOU? No way.

4. HOW OLD WERE YOU? 24

5. HOW DID YOU FIND OUT YOU WERE PREGNANT? ate like a pig at my brother's house. I just couldn't get enough to eat. Took a pregnancy test when I got home.

6. WHO DID YOU TELL FIRST? Mel,Mom then Dustin

7. HOW DID YOU TELL THEM? Phoned Mel and mom. Dustin got home from work and I just said it.

8. DID YOU WANT TO FIND OUT THE SEX? Yes! I did only about 2 days before she was born.

9. DUE DATE? July 23, 2001

10. DID YOU HAVE MORNING SICKNESS? yes espcially if I had an empty tummy

11. WHAT DID YOU CRAVE? everything

12. WHO/WHAT IRRITATED YOU THE MOST? getting fat

13. WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST CHILD'S SEX? girl

14. DID YOU WISH YOU HAD THE OPPOSITE SEX OF WHAT YOU WERE GETTING? no

15. HOW MANY POUNDS DID YOU GAIN THROUGHOUT THE PREGNANCY? Around 60

16. DID YOU HAVE A BABY SHOWER? yes work had one for me

17. WAS IT A SURPRISE OR DID YOU KNOW? I knew about it.

18. DID YOU HAVE ANY COMPLICATIONS DURING YOUR PREGNANCY? pregnancy induced hypertension. was in the hospital for 2 weeks before I had her, that was the cause of most of my weight gain, retained fluid.

19. WHERE DID YOU GIVE BIRTH? St. B

20. HOW MANY HOURS WERE YOU IN LABOR? over 35 hours. Monday night around 8:30 till I had her at 7:02 wednesday morning

21. WHO DROVE YOU TO THE HOSPITAL? Dustin

22. WHO WATCHED YOU GIVE BIRTH? Dustin and nursing staff

23. WAS IT VAGINAL OR C-SECTION? vaginal... almost c-section the cord was wrapped around her neck twice..white when she came out. The cord was so tight she just had enough length to get out.

24. DID YOU TAKE MEDICINE TO EASE THE PAIN? demorial, then epidural

25. HOW MUCH DID YOUR CHILD WEIGHT? 5lbs 14oz

26. WHEN WAS YOUR CHILD ACTUALLY BORN? June 27 2001

27. WHAT DID YOU NAME HIM/HER? Faith Ashley

28. WHAT WOULD YOU HAVE NAMED YOUR CHILD IF IT WAS THE OPPOSITE SEX? Darryl Trent

29. HOW OLD IS YOUR FIRST BORN TODAY? 7.5 years

25 things about me

1. I'm still in my pj's at 11:00 am so are most of my kids.
2. I have 4 kids, 2 boys and 2 girls.
3. I hate the house I'm living in. I wish it was finished.
4. I hate that Dustin doesn't like to spend money.
5. I wish my mom could meet my kids.
6. I hated/loved high school... hated it because I was shy and didn't have many friends. Loved it for the friends I did have.
7. I've played dungeons and dragons as a teenager.
8. I love to put together puzzles.
9. I hate doing homework... I really have to get used to doing it.
10. I wish I was more modivated to get in shape.
11. I have a twisted, wicked sense of humor, as I'm sure most of you know.
12. I want to travel the world with my kids.
13. I want to go on vacation anywheres, anything. see #4 as to why I haven't
14. I wish I stilled knew how to play the piano.
15. I love to read.
I6. I love to take walks with my kids, we are out everytime it's nice out.
17. I have a really bad temper.
18. I hate customer service but am afraid it's one of the jobs I'm good at.
19. I do not want to go back to work, I enjoy staying at home *most of the time*
20. I tend to not answer my phone.... I know I'm working on it lol
21. I hate stupid people
22. I believe in magic
23. I love watching those teeniebopper movies/ coming of age movies
24. I love baby feet, they are super cute.
25. I hate when my house is messy, but I really don't want to be the one to clean it.

Kids in diapers

So it's enviably that when you have a kids strapped into a poop catcher day in and day out that accidents/explosions happen.

Nathan my little 2 year old is still in diapers. He likes to sleep naked, which we strictly tell him he's not allowed. He also likes to take off his poop catcher during nap times. All you mom's and dad's out there know exactly where I'm doing with this LOL.

Certain food affect you in certain ways, same goes for little kids. Venison is very popular in our house. But it does give Nathan runnier poops. The other day I went into his room after a brief quiet time, because he doesn't nap anymore. I walk in to the lovely smell.. you all know the smell. He's sitting against the wall and he's taken his pants off. He looks up at me and says "I play cars" "Yeah" I say "you are playing with your cars, come lets change your bum." He stands up and all over the wall is poop. It has run up his back and out the top of the diaper. Yucky yucky yucky! why can't this be one of the times daddy is home to get him out???

Needless to say I'll be glad when I no longer have to buy diapers. Sooner or later I will be out from under all this poop ha ha!.

Nesting???

Am I nesting??? seriously?? Or is this an early start to spring cleaning? Its still another 5 weeks at least before this puppy comes home.

I have just spent the better part of 4 hours cleaning the house. I took everything off the kitchen floor... boots, backpacks, garbage can, chairs and anything I could find and scrubbed it clean. Mind you I should have done it along time ago. I'm more of a spot cleaning kinda person lol. Anyways I cleaned the walls the cupboard doors. Then I moved on to the hallways. I did the front hallway and the kids doors, bathroom doors all the walls in between.

The last time I really felt this motivated to clean was when I was 6 months pregnant. Which was over two years ago.. and NO! I'm not pregnant again. So don't ask lol.

I've been reading up on the web about the first few days home with a new puppy. This is going to be a huge change in my life so I want to be prepared. I need to be ready and have everything in place for when the new bundle of joy joins us. It almost feels like I'm bringing home a new baby... someone needs to stop me before I bring up the baby swing and strap the dog in.

I've even written out the names and numbers for the nearest vet hospitals, obedience classes and pet supply stores. I have a list of questions to ask the breeder about feeding, nail and dental care. I also found out there is a waiting list for obedience classes; I'm wondering if it's a two year waiting list like most daycares??? wouldn't that be hilarious!!!!

Time for a nap I'm exhausted.

New Motto

So I was reading a friends blog and through her blog found this website about moms showing other moms their post partum bellys. Well most of them on there are in their 20's and look totally fine afterwards. But I did find this *quote*

" I have the rest of my life to worry about my body, but my kids are only little once."

So this is my new motto. Although I have started on the elliptical again, I am going to keep saying this motto over and over again.

Alphabet and Counting

Today we had to pick up our friend D from pre-school and take him over to a friends house. He is friends with the twins. They were so excited to see him get in our van, as you can tell this doesn't happen very often. I had to keep reminding them that he's not coming to our house. They were fine with that until later in the day when his brothers got off at our bus stop. They screamed in excitement "yeah D is coming over to play", " I want to play with D". But atlas he wasn't and the brothers stayed for only a few minutes. I think we need to set up a play date.

Today was almost a complete waste. Having a headache I didn't go to playgroup and came home with Nathan and rested most of the morning. Good thing he enjoys playing by himself.

I did manage to pull it together this afternoon/evening. After having attended Kindergarten hear we come program on wednesday afternoon I realized the twins either don't know or won't say their alphabets. They don't like to sing along with songs, even though I know, they know the words. So we are going to start rectifying that. We played a game on wednesday where Dora had to follow the Alphabet. You had to find the item that matched the letter she was standing on.
I made my own game at home. I had already written out the alphabet awhile ago. I used to get the kids to go through it. But they would always say "I don't know" or "I don't remember" Which if you have kids you know gets very frustrating especially if you have two of them saying it at the same time. So I threw the cards on the floor scattered them all over. Then took figures from another Dora game gave one to each child. I would then ask them to find a letter and they had to place their figure on the letter and say the sound. I had to tell Faith to be last and just pretend she was playing or else she is always first and get the twins upset. I then finished the game with everyone closing their eyes and I counted to three then they had to find the first letter in their name. I think I came up with a very good game and I had to stop playing it when they were really enjoying it, so they would want to play it again later.

After that I took the twins one at a time and went throught their counting. I can say that they are fairly good with their counting to 10. Payton can write her name, but only if it's already written. Clayton will write his name, but only if it's written and he won't write it in order. They are starting kindergarten next year I think I really need to work with them on this.

I need to set up a schedule lol.

Snow Fort

I think today was temper tantrum day today. At playgroup there were about 4 kids who had a temper tantrum and the class is only 2 hours long. I'm thinking it has something to do with all the cold weather we were having. All the kids are so excited to be able to leave their homes lol.

Well we never made it to the skate pond this weekend. With Faith being grounded, and Nathan sleeping it just didn't work out. The twins and I did manage to go on a nice walk though. It is very pleasant to walk with the kids. We did one trip around the block.

With the snow not being sticky at all we can't make snow people. So we made a snow fort instead. I saw some kids making one in their yard on our walk so that got me thinking. We pushed the snow out of the way and made a big circle. The snow became the walls of the fort. A couple of weeks ago the plows came through and left all the extra snow in our yard. So those blocks of snow became a ring around our fort. We placed them on top of our walls and in the door way. It is a very nice fort for 4 year olds. I don't think I'm going to make a roof just because I know they would knock it down and get stuck inside.

This week is a slow week for us. Mind you we rarely have a *busy* week. On wednesday the twins have gymkyds and in the afternoon we have a kindergarten here we come program. This will be our first week and I'm looking forward to seeing the kids interacting with the other kids.

The twins are having a fight rigth now over who gets to *read* the book first... gota go.

The extreme weather has broken

YAH! it is now only -27. It almost feels like spring lol. It does say it's suppose to be 0 on Monday. Well we'll just take it one day at a time.

Today is friday!!! I had my women's group morning meeting today. I like just sitting around and talking. This way we can get to know each other better. On days we have a speaker we just do business and listen to the speaker. Although some of these speakers are very informative. We have a wide variety of speakers from Cancer care Manitoba, to spa days, to eye care for your children, to how to start your own home business. Today we had an open morning, one of the ladies talked about her conflict resolution class she took. It was very informative. I think it opened my eyes to some of the conflicts we tend to have in a marriage. It really breaks down to who's right or wrong and what fears the other person might have.

This weekend if it is nice out I plan on taking the kids ice skating. We haven't had a chance to use them since christmas.

Only 7 more weeks till we get our new puppy. I have been researching on the web, what do puppies need, how to take care of them and how and when to feed them. If anyone has any suggestions on good books let me know. I do have a puppy training book, what to do in the first 7 weeks after you bring puppy home. But it really only covers training the puppy to do stuff. I have never been the soul person responsible for a puppy. Last time we had a puppy in the house I was still living at home with my parents, so guess who took the majority of the responsiblity... not me lol.

Other people's blogs

So I like to flip through the other blogs here. More often then not it's written in a language I can't read. Sometimes I come across one that is interesting. Today I found one, and I was like WTF???

It was about her little boy who is 5 or 6. Probably just started school this year. He has been very good in school and got his first warning for talking in the hallway. She goes on to say and I quote *I hope as the years go by and he begins to see the ugliness of his sin, that he also sees the beauty of our saviour." I'm sorry... the ugliness of his sin, he talked in the hallway. Yes he shouldn't have done it, but to make him think it's a sin??? Come on who does not not have impluse control at some point in their lives. She actually told him to pray to god to be forgiven.

If you haven't looked through the other blogs I highly recommend you take a peek; you just might find a blog (other then mine lol) that you enjoy. Just hit the next blog button at the top of the page on the left.

Just Some Random Words

Well things are looking up here. No major fights, no screaming mom..er.. kids. The buses were cancelled on Wednesday and I didn't have the heart to drive the kids to school yesterday. We stayed home and hibernated. It was -50 with the windchill. Way to cold to be outside for any length of time.

The kids played nicely and even kept their rooms relatively clean. Although they did watch a movie in the morning and played wii in the afternoon. So that might have helped with the whole not messing up the house thing lol.

Today has been a good day so far *knock on wood* The buses were running, the twins had school. Nathan and I went to pre-school. It was a very enjoyable morning. I discovered that stores are now selling those creamy chocolate eggs that are only sold at Easter!!!! Let me tell you, I can NOT resist buying them when ever I come across one. So much for not eating junk food lol. Oh well.

Nathan has a bit of a cold. He has taken to having his sister carry him around in a blanket. She's all for it, so I'm like whatever, as long as no ones crying. They like to put him in a chair and cover him up with blankets. Find all his backyardigans and some books and keep him there. He's happy of course having all the attention on himself.

Tomorrow the cold wave is suppose to break. It's suppose to be -13 tomorrow. I'm keeping my fingers crossed, but am not expecting too much.

Freezing out

Today the temperature reads -36. With the windchill it is -42. It's another beautiful Manitoba morning.. or so my mom used to say. Seriously thats the temp today. School buses don't normally get cancelled until -45 windchill. Faith went to school today, even if buses were cancelled I would still drive her to school. She would be marked absent if she didn't go!!! I think it's a good thing that I'm a stay-at-home mom. The twins had school today also, so I still had to drive to school.

Today is one of those days when you wonder why you settled into the frozen waste land of Manitoba Canada.

Simple things in life

I should take after my kids more. They can have the most joy out of the littles things in life.
Seeing a huge snow pile, curling up with mom and dad in bed watching tv, seeing the garbage truck go by.

If only adults took the time to enjoy the little things in life. I want to enjoy Faith for the wonderful person I know she can be. She can be very loving towards her siblings.
I want to enjoy Payton for the girl she is. She loves dressing up and being *pretty* all the time.
I want to enjoy Clayton for his kind heart. I want to enjoy Nathan for the cuddley person he is. Those are my new, new years resolution.

The past couple of days have been very trying for me. The kids don't want to listen and are doing things they know they are not suppose to do. I have found a way to get them modivated. We *race* who ever gets something done first they get a special treat. I know some of you are going to say " don't do that you'll cause problems in the future". Well my saying as always been "do what works" right now this is working. I need something to change in their behaviours, their attitudes and they way we interact together.

Hopefully this week goes better then last. Already it's starting out better.... no one is grounded.

New Member of the Family

We are getting a new member of the family!! I'm super excited. He's small and brown and only about 4 days old. If you haven't guessed yet... it's a puppy. A chocolate lab to be percuss.

I'm looking forward to seeing him hopefully soon. Probably in a couple weeks after he gets his first shots. If you care to have a look you can find him here http://www.azurebluelabradors.com/availablepuppies.html. Go all the way to the bottom of the page. It's the mom nursing the puppies. It's not a very clear picture. But one of those puppies is ours. She had 4 males live. One black and three chocolate. (she has added individual pictures of the puppies. although we won't know until 7 weeks which one is ours)

It will be alot of work, but I'm looking forward too. I've wanted a puppy since I moved out of my parents house. Growing up we always had numerous dogs and cats. My mom loved animals and would just bring them home. My dad couldn't say no. He was in the military and most of the time wasn't home.

Dustin said he would walk the dog. Of that I'm not too sure on. But I do plan on walking the dog in the hopes that my butt will shrink down. I know the kids will love having him. Nathan now walks around barking like a dog and crawling on all fours. When we're at grandpa and baba's house they have a dog and Nathan wouldn't leave her alone. He wanted to look and touch. Good thing he doesn't know about all the cats in the barn.

It will be the middle of march before we bring him home. So don't tell the kids!!! we haven't said anything *just in case* Although we have talked about things in front of them... I'm pretty sure Faith knows what's going on.

Orthodontist

Today was Faith's orthodontist's appointment. It was really easy and everyone was very friendly. From the receptionist, to the hygenist to the dentist.

We only had to wait a couple of minutes. Which I was alittle worried about the waiting area was full. But now that I think of it, it was full because there were parents and siblings waiting for the patient to come out. They had cartoons playing, and a slushy machine.

We went into the back room. She took pictures of Faith's teeth, which yes she printed out and gave to us. She also took a picture of Faith and Nathan together. How sweet. Just one look and she knew what was going to end up happening in Faith's mouth. I found out later she is actually married to the orthodontist. They have 6 kids. Then why was she saying the typical "OMG you have 4 kids" line????

So Faith needs a retainer. Which costs... can you guess??? $2200.00 Can you imagine. Of course Dustin's work has no orthodontist coverage AT ALL!!! How mad am I about that???

They have very neat designs, they can put your favorite character inside the retainer. My question is why since she can't see it anyways IT'S IN HER MOUTH!!! They do have a nice payment plan. Over the next 20 months at $110.00.

Needless to say it's going to be a while before she gets it. Closer to summer anyways. Most of the time we spent there was waiting on the dentist. Maybe next time I should bring all the kids? wouldn't that be fun???

Child rant

Well I think today is a good day for a rant..... We have a play area in our basement. As I'm sure most of you guys do too. Our basement is not finished, but Dustin has managed to put up dry wall on all the walls. He does have some new walls put in. But nothing is painted, no carpet, no bathroom. Most of the things I don't want up stairs is stored somewhere down there.

So there are certain areas of the basement the children are not allowed to play in. Mostly because Dustin has his tools out/ or it's full of junk the kids don't need to play with.

The Manitoba twins club has a sale twice a year, of which I am a part of. To have your things sold in the sale they must be sorted by size and tagged with a piece of paper with my information on it. So I have everything sorted and tagged and ready to go..... or so I thought. There is also a box of teddy bears my kids have no really interest in and toys they have out grown. I've told these children many times not to touch them. Alot of work goes into sorting by sizes, gender, different seasons and different pieces of clothing ie blankets

I go down there today and they have almost the all the boxes emptied, mixed in with the toys they are allowed to play with. Their sleeping bags were open and laying around. Mine and Dustin's winter boots out and scattered around. Clayton got ahold of a pen, which Faith had down there. He "wrote" all over the wall. You know; I don't ask them to clean up the basement alot. It's there area to play without me right there with them. But there are just certain things I do expect of them. One of them is to listen when I ask them not to touch.

The funny thing is they whole heartedly admitted it was them that did it. Normally they blame someone else. They are grounded for a week, no wii, no basement and no playing with each other. Faith will be included in this when she gets home from school. Maybe from now on they will listen when I ask them not to touch stuff I don't want them to touch???? wishful thinking maybe???

Life

With school starting just around the corner we come to a busy week. The middle two are going for their dentist appointment on Monday. This will be very entertaining. Payton doesn't like people to touch her teeth. She cries and won't open her mouth. Last time they asked me to come in and lay down on the chair and have her on my chest. Yeah right.... that's not going to make her open her mouth. Clayton will only give a toothy smile but won't open up.
But they did talk about it the other day with Faith. They said the dentist will brush our teeth. Hopefully things go well.

Faith has her orthodontist apt on tuesday. The thing is an hour long at minimum. Could be longer.... GOD! Hopefully they don't suggest braces right away. Then Faith and her classmates are going on a field trip to the see the dinosaur museum. They have been studying all about them in school. Which has prompted her to re watch the Land Before Time movies. Clayton especially loves them. He's always asking for the one with all the littlefoots in it.

Then there is playgroup with an extra day on wednesday afternoons. My mom's group starts back up. Which I am super excited about. Two whole hours child free. Talking to ladies about other things then what the kids are doing. Gymnastics starts back up for the kids. They will be excited to get back into things. Me on the other hand. I've been staying up late, sleeping in late and napping in the afternoons. It's going to be hard to get up at 7:00 tomorrow to start the day.

On thursday my friend phoned and wanted to know if I wanted to go out for coffee. HELL YEAH I said. After spending hours upon hours in the house cause it's too cold to go outside with the kids getting cabin fever. I eagerly agreed to go. So we spent a few hours sitting down and enjoying each others company. When she dropped me off at home, I told her I had a lovely date and asked if she wanted to kiss to end the date. Sadly she said no... but she did say maybe next time LOL.

On Saturday I went to the movies with friends. I highly recommend The secret life of bees. Very good movie. My friend cried during the movie and called me a heartless bitch for not crying. It was very emotional but I'm still not crying in public LOL. We then spent a few hours at Boston pizza chatting, with another friend joining us later. Having good friends are hard to come by once you get some keep them.

That's it for today... SCHOOL STARTS TOMORROW!!! can't you tell I've very excited???