Grandma Bear is sweet and cuddly, always helping to look after her grand-cubs. Because we were all too busy taking headcount instead of taking pictures, I decided to document a few highlights from our week. Had we taken pictures, these are what some of the captions would have said...
a week in advance:
Here are the kids asking every five minutes when grandma Bear is going to get here.
Here is Rhino asking if he gets to get on the airplane too- and this sad one is Rhino after I told him not this time.
Monday:
This is Mr. Zookeeeper and I trying to sleep in on his day off, but the kids were too excited.
Here's the whole family piling into the van to go get Grandma Bear from the airport and here's a picture of the kids' faces when they finally see her- Tiger couldn't yell loud enough and Puppy couldn't stop smiling.
Here's Mr. Zookeeper jumping with the kids at Airborne... and here's the disgruntled employee telling him that he can't stay in the foam pit that long. She insisted on helping Tiger get out more quickly, we had a good laugh watching her try and explain the rules to him every time he jumped back in and lay there... we probably should have stepped in but she was trying so hard to seem important that we couldn't stop giggling long enough to add our assistance; and remember, if we touch the foam too much- it will eventually fall apart... so we can jump in the foam pit but we must get out as quickly as possible and never, ever build a tower with it!
This is Tiger jumping without ever stopping and here's mom trying to keep up without passing out or tripping on the mats. Off to another potty break! (Jumping is very different after having four kids!)
There's Monkey jumping in her own little space and Grandma Bear looking on. There's Rhino in the background playing dodge-ball with himself- I think he won that round.
That's the UPS man driving away after dropping off five large boxes full of school supplies. This one shows the kids opening said boxes. (Note Grandma's face as they tear into the packages and remove all manner of filling)
Here's Mr. Zookeeper fixing mom's broken side mirror on the van, and on the ground is the piece he just broke off.
At the movies to see "Zookeeper"
Everyone enjoying the movie! Mom's not in the picture, not because she was taking it but because she had to get up four times for popcorn purchases and kids' potty breaks- (but I'm sure the movie was hilarious...)
Tuesday:
The kids splashing at Noah's Ark
Grandma and mom looking for someone Else's lost boy... notice the relieved look on mom's face as it's not her kid that went missing!
Tiger running ahead- he was excited. Rhino soaking his underpants under the sprinkler- that got him excited. Puppy giggling as she runs in circles tapping her toes in the water and Monkey looking around to figure out what in the heck is going on... oh, and there's Tiger jumping off of the sign that says, "no climbing". And this blurry one has mom's finger in the way as she ran to stop Tiger from taking off his swimsuit.
The kids getting mom and Grandma out of the mazes we got ourselves lost in and then us all exploring the bear caves. Great grab, Grandma- Tiger almost got away with that one!
Floating some boats down the river... with the kids assisting. Tiger couldn't reach from the shore so he just jumped in. Sorry to the other mom who gagged at seeing Tiger in the water that she wouldn't even put her fingers in and sorry to her little boy that learned the hard way that Tigers don't like to share.
Here's Puppy and Monkey loving the sand. Rhino and Tiger climbing. Here's the stage where we saw some awesome moves- Rhino- that is the most unique version of the robot I have ever seen!
Here's the maze that we lost Tiger in... he decided to head back to the stage and do some more dancing. This Mom and Grandma moving the herd to the next park.
Trying to figure out how to turn on the golf cart (I made Grandma drive and enjoyed the backseat)
Lunch by the waterfall. Grandma made me drive on the way back... she's always pushing me out of my comfort zone but- as she says, now I can take the cart out on my own and not have any more crazy walking adventures with broken wagons...
Hurrying to make up for too much time spent resting by the waterfall (had to get the cart back at a certain time)
The kids soaking their heads in the secret garden's little pool (they should really put up signs if they discourage that... so difficult as a parent to tell them no when my hand's not forced... decisions, decisions)
Here's the kids getting further and further into messes with the delivered boxes of school supplies... Oh look, they brought down all of the blankets to play with too.
Mom and Grandma escaping to a girls night out... Taco Salads!
Not much of a girl's night out- we looked through the garden center of Lowe's and then bought some nail polish... but I won't tell anyone about the king size snicker's bars we ate in the car!
12:30 am- mom and Grandma sitting in the living room talking- as if they didn't have enough time to talk in four days!
Wednesday:
Everyone sitting around when we should be loading up in the van... we were all so tired!
Trying to have fun jumping but it was too hot! Kids eating ice cream, soda and freeze pops because it's too hot to jump. (you know, you shouldn't have to pay to play and pay for refreshments because it's too hot to play... someone will be hearing from me!)
Us leaving the too hot jumping center- Monkey sound asleep after being in the car for only two minutes and the rest of them screaming that they still want to go swimming... there's mom with a confused look on her face trying to decide how to please everyone.
The kids getting wet at the splash pad. Everyone's smiling again.
Grandma driving away to get some lunch. Mom's running Monkey potty while pulling Puppy and Tiger along... Rhino's oblivious in the middle of a sprinkler- hopefully he won't notice he's alone for a few minutes.
Tiger trying to take off his swimsuit. Rhino sitting on a sprinkler. Puppy running in circles while sticking her toes in the water and Monkey standing on a rock ready to yell at anyone who splashes her- there's the scared face of the boy who splashed her (I really hope he doesn't need therapy...)
Eating some lunch. Tiger's eating only the middle of the french fries (he doesn't eat the ends) and the girls are eating mom's frosty (Dangerous ground, girls). Rhino finds us and eats everything that's left over, which quickly became a second lunch.
There's the kids and those boxes again...
Here's mom and dad heading to the temple while grandma babysits (LOVED IT!) Here's mom and dad getting a bite to eat and enjoying their own french fries without having to hide or share them with Tiger.
Mom and Grandma spending another night talking! Talking about memories, promises and improvements. A thin veil.
Ahh... everyone's sound asleep!
Thursday:
Grandma runs some errands while the Zoo gets some dishes and laundry done. (I'm pretty sure we've already scared Grandma with all of our messes but since it's the last day, we'll clean up a little... save the rest for when we can't play with her anymore).
The kids re-empty their boxes and scatter cut up paper throughout the rooms.
We all pack up to head to the real Zoo and find Monkey asleep in the middle of the stairs.
Tiger covered in Marker (literally), wearing his long pants and long sleeved shirt with his sheriff hat... the rest of us have on shirts and sunblock. He leans over Monkey and yells at her to get up.
She heard him and we're heading out.
Mom excited she got us there without getting lost!
Walking through the park and fossil exhibit. That's the poor man that Tiger thought was interesting... he even pulled on his clothes (not sure why he was so fascinated with this man). Giggling under our breath, we turned and ran out of the building.
Elephants, rhinos, monkeys and then a carousel ride. Here's a candid snapshot of the employee who saw Tiger and asked if he was dressed up as Freddy Krueger... (I told you the marker was everywhere).
A picture of Mom after washing the sunscreen out of her eyes- of course she runs into an old school friend after getting red eyes and sweating from walking up a hill but always good to see a friend!
Snack time and a rest. There's the table that we cleaned up by spilling our water. And there's the second one.
The reptile rooms. Rhino reminding us all that he knows everything there is to know about alligators. Here's Rhino yelling at Tiger because while the sign says it's a crocodile, he really wants to see a real life alligator so this one will be an alligator. (Maybe now he can move on in life)
Dinosaurs (special appearances at the zoo). Rhino knew every species before we even got to the plaque that made the rest of us feel a little less dumb.
Tigers, camels and giraffes. The kids loved seeing the giraffes at eye level while they were eating. And hey Grandma- there's the orangutan that you thought was so amazing... and there he is right after he regurgitated his lunch and you had a different kind of feeling for him.
Mom carrying Tiger. Apparently his sheriff attire was beginning to feel a little warm... no worries- I like to carry the backpack and a 50 lb Tiger while sweating myself! (I took off the backpack to ride the carousel and found I had major armpit sweat marks happening so I put it back on and didn't remove it again until we got to the van!)
Realizing what time it is and running to the train (we paid for it- we're riding it- so run faster kids!) Grandma's face when I told her we walked up a hill when we could have walked around the display... and then Grandma's face when she found out I walked her down the same hill, around a corner through a maze and over some tracks all to find out the entrance was a few steps away from the first hill we climbed by the display... oops!
Driving to meet Mr. Zookeeper for dinner and hurrying to get there and eat before Grandma Bear's flight leaves.
Mom driving, Grandma trying to read Mom's directions. There's the flashing light telling mom to slow down and stop going two miles over the speed limit (that's about how fast I speed). Oh, and there's the other one... but it was flashing because I was two miles under. I can't win!
There's us guessing which road to take and making our decision. Here's us realizing we chose the wrong one. It's OK- we've found a new way. Lost. Found and then Lost again...
Okay- here's us laughing now that we've found our way and realizing why Mr. Zookeeper bought me a GPS for my thirtieth birthday; I should really remember to bring that along...
Excitement in the front seat as we see the restaurant; disappointment as I miss the entrance. Here's our U-turn! There's our second U-Turn and parking.
Calling Mr. Zookeeeper-we got there first- HA! (He knows I'm a terrible with driving and directions so he usually leaves when I get there and says he's five minutes away... smart man, keeps him from wasting time waiting for all my U-Turns)
The kids eating at the all you can eat buffet; Tiger- French fries. Puppy- Mashed Potatoes. Monkey- ate too many fish crackers so she just played with her food and Rhino- corn dogs, pizza and french fries. Good to know that they will eat the same things regardless of how many choices I give them. Here's the adults' stressed looking faces after eating all we could- and here's us laughing about the idea of weighing ourselves before and after the feast.
Taking Grandma back to the airport; sad faces.
Here's Grandma running to catch her flight and here's Puppy throwing up all over Mr. Zookeeper's car... sorry you missed that one Grandma Bear.
There goes grandma Bear's airplane! See you next time!
What a week! What an adventure! and What a better way to have an encounter with a bear than a week's adventure with Grandma Bear! (Now I fear she may go into hibernation to recoup)
We love you- Thanks for all the memories (and talks)!
and bonus points for us; I think we actually wore the kids out! But take notice: If they retaliate on me- I'm sending them down to you....
7.19.2011
My Immortal- the first year is Published!
I did it. What started as a way for me to record my life with my children has turned into my first published book.
I have written a few books, all have been turned down by publishers. I wasn't a person of interest one company told me. Another said I did not have enough titles behind my name and another did not even ask to read my manuscripts once they learned I was a new comer and had no famous connections.
I'm sorry- I thought I was marketing my writing, not my friends... Apparently I really was young and naive.
Looking back, I am glad I was not published. Not that I would change anything about what I've written but because it gave me the chance to see what I really was made of. I had a hard time writing after each letter of apology. I doubted if I'd ever write anything that would be of interest to anyone other than my own mother (love you mom!).
A year ago, I started writing for me. I always write with an audience in mind but this time it was the older version of myself and my children. I let others in on the secret because I love my life so much. I find so much joy in my children and job and could not consider myself grateful if I did not share. I recorded everyday memories as well as the once in a lifetime moments. It was a way to share my every day... and to perhaps blackmail my children years from now...
The book came in the mail today. It still really only means something to me. It's self published without the approval of a professional editor and probably has the mistakes to prove it; It'll never be a new york times best seller, but that's what makes it a limited edition.
Of course the wild animals got to the book before I did. They absolutely love getting packages in the mail and race to discover their contents regardless of who's name is on there. After fighting like a two year old and yelling out that it was my book, mine- I remembered that I was the mom and composed myself. I proudly showed them the book that they were a part of and once they realized it mostly words they lost interest. I wiped the fingerprints from the cover and put the new treasure on the book shelf... the very top of the book shelf. I debated wrapping it in plastic or putting an alarm on it but wondered if that was borderline obsessive... I guess it's fine for now.
While editing my posts and adding some pictures that Rhino drew for me- I was amazed at how many of those tales I'd already forgotten about. I spent hours reading about the life that I had a front row seat to and was reminded just how lucky I am.
96 pages! I couldn't believe it! No wonder it took me two days to edit. And you guys really read this stuff every week? Wow- you must be real friends to be that dedicated- and a sincere apology to all of those hours spent reading about my crazy life! I'll make a mental note not to be so long winded this next year... but who am I kidding? It takes me three paragraphs just to say hello! I love to talk and I love to write... as you can probably tell- this "hey I got published" has already turned itself into a chapter!
There is something about writing that makes you feel immortal!
So, thank you to all of you (whoever you are) that support me in this journey. I write for me and my children but gain so much strength knowing that I am not alone. Documenting our lives lets us grow closer- goodness! We're practically reading each others' journals! The fact is, we all have strengths, we all have weaknesses and we all need someone to share our lives with. I am glad to have shared my last year first on this blog and now in a book that can be passed down.
After Tiger was born, I started writing to be successful. (I even planned what I would say to Oprah but don't tell that to too many people.) In my own silly ways, I wanted my children to know that their mother was somebody. But now, ten years later, I don't need a publisher's or anyone Else's approval to write what's in my heart. Stories are meant to be told. And my children will always be my greatest success! Because of them- I have a mission, meaning, meltdowns and miracles. They're a wild bunch and they are all mine (yeah Oprah... you shut down your show just a little too soon...) I'd heard it before but finally experienced it for myself. To lose yourself in service to others is the best way to find who you've always been waiting to become. I'd still like to do without so many years of cleaning up poop but if that's what it takes, I'd do it again... I think.
In addition to compulsive storytelling, I'm a succor for hardcover books- even in this digital world. I love the smell, the look and the feel of the pages. Old, new, original or copied- I love to collect words! Now, I have added my own words to my growing collection and it's a beautiful feeling.
Did I mention how good my book looks on my shelf? :) I think I'll go walk past it again.. just one more time...
I have written a few books, all have been turned down by publishers. I wasn't a person of interest one company told me. Another said I did not have enough titles behind my name and another did not even ask to read my manuscripts once they learned I was a new comer and had no famous connections.
I'm sorry- I thought I was marketing my writing, not my friends... Apparently I really was young and naive.
Looking back, I am glad I was not published. Not that I would change anything about what I've written but because it gave me the chance to see what I really was made of. I had a hard time writing after each letter of apology. I doubted if I'd ever write anything that would be of interest to anyone other than my own mother (love you mom!).
A year ago, I started writing for me. I always write with an audience in mind but this time it was the older version of myself and my children. I let others in on the secret because I love my life so much. I find so much joy in my children and job and could not consider myself grateful if I did not share. I recorded everyday memories as well as the once in a lifetime moments. It was a way to share my every day... and to perhaps blackmail my children years from now...
The book came in the mail today. It still really only means something to me. It's self published without the approval of a professional editor and probably has the mistakes to prove it; It'll never be a new york times best seller, but that's what makes it a limited edition.
Of course the wild animals got to the book before I did. They absolutely love getting packages in the mail and race to discover their contents regardless of who's name is on there. After fighting like a two year old and yelling out that it was my book, mine- I remembered that I was the mom and composed myself. I proudly showed them the book that they were a part of and once they realized it mostly words they lost interest. I wiped the fingerprints from the cover and put the new treasure on the book shelf... the very top of the book shelf. I debated wrapping it in plastic or putting an alarm on it but wondered if that was borderline obsessive... I guess it's fine for now.
While editing my posts and adding some pictures that Rhino drew for me- I was amazed at how many of those tales I'd already forgotten about. I spent hours reading about the life that I had a front row seat to and was reminded just how lucky I am.
96 pages! I couldn't believe it! No wonder it took me two days to edit. And you guys really read this stuff every week? Wow- you must be real friends to be that dedicated- and a sincere apology to all of those hours spent reading about my crazy life! I'll make a mental note not to be so long winded this next year... but who am I kidding? It takes me three paragraphs just to say hello! I love to talk and I love to write... as you can probably tell- this "hey I got published" has already turned itself into a chapter!
There is something about writing that makes you feel immortal!
So, thank you to all of you (whoever you are) that support me in this journey. I write for me and my children but gain so much strength knowing that I am not alone. Documenting our lives lets us grow closer- goodness! We're practically reading each others' journals! The fact is, we all have strengths, we all have weaknesses and we all need someone to share our lives with. I am glad to have shared my last year first on this blog and now in a book that can be passed down.
After Tiger was born, I started writing to be successful. (I even planned what I would say to Oprah but don't tell that to too many people.) In my own silly ways, I wanted my children to know that their mother was somebody. But now, ten years later, I don't need a publisher's or anyone Else's approval to write what's in my heart. Stories are meant to be told. And my children will always be my greatest success! Because of them- I have a mission, meaning, meltdowns and miracles. They're a wild bunch and they are all mine (yeah Oprah... you shut down your show just a little too soon...) I'd heard it before but finally experienced it for myself. To lose yourself in service to others is the best way to find who you've always been waiting to become. I'd still like to do without so many years of cleaning up poop but if that's what it takes, I'd do it again... I think.
In addition to compulsive storytelling, I'm a succor for hardcover books- even in this digital world. I love the smell, the look and the feel of the pages. Old, new, original or copied- I love to collect words! Now, I have added my own words to my growing collection and it's a beautiful feeling.
Did I mention how good my book looks on my shelf? :) I think I'll go walk past it again.. just one more time...
7.12.2011
Go Team Zoo!
Me and the kids, we do everything together. We've always played together, eaten together, sometimes slept together (next time we'll buy a smaller bed) and sad to say even pottied together... one has to go and they all have to go (and I never get to go alone either out of Tiger's safety, a debate that must be settled right that second or just a keen desire to be near me!) Especially since we started doing school at home, we can't seem to get away from each other. We have our moments when we all retire to separate rooms for alone time or time-away, but for the most part, we really enjoy each others' company.
Some of this comes out of necessity. With young kids and the older ones having special needs, I keep everyone at arms length. Sometimes, if I'm really stretched, I'll put Tiger on my shoulders, Monkey on my back, hold Puppy's hand and voice direct Rhino. This is why I have four children and a tired body, but, it works. Our circus act keeps them safe and me sane.
Other times, though, we rally together to live life to the fullest. Naturally, if one person is doing something exciting, we all want to do it. One of my biggest complaints about being a grown up is driving. If I was rich I would not hire a chef or even a maid (though my husband might prefer I look into that one). No, I would a hire a chauffeur. I am very grateful that I can drive but it is one of my least favorite thing to do. Thus, I refuse to be a taxi.
Besides the fact that I can't afford to have the kids all in different activities, I don't want to have to drive them all over the place. In addition, the kids think they really, really want to do something and then go back to their same obsessions.I still want my kids to experience things- just not everything that we have to make a commitment for and pay money to do.
A year ago, Tiger was really into swinging a bat. We wanted to put his talent to good use so we showed him how to hit a ball instead of his sister. After watching him hit and already knowing he could run, we signed him and Puppy up for t-ball. We tried to get Rhino on the same team but there were age limits and we were told his size would intimidate the younger kids (not the kids I saw- they would have sent him running).
Because of Tiger's special circumstances, one of us parents had to be the coach so since I was the one with the pen, I signed up Mr. Zookeeper. Our experience was great all around. Like most T- ball teams, the kids were chasing after the ball like women after chocolate. It didn't matter what position they played or who was in their way- that ball was hit and they were there. There were just as many parents on the field as kids, sometimes more and everyone was cheering and yelling directions to the oblivious four year olds who were just out to swing a bat, throw a ball and earn their treat.
It was a lot of fun. Puppy stood in ready position most of the time while Tiger only joined the game to hit and run, after reenacting a dance scene from High School Musical 2. He spent the off times off at the park or locked in his car seat to keep him from playing off at the park (we removed it from the car and put it in the dug out area so he could be close by when it was his turn). It was a fun summer.
Next, Rhino really wanted to learn Karate. Puppy wanted to take dance. Monkey was in that not-interested-in-holding-still stage and Tiger just wanted to run. There was no way I could afford the classes let alone support them in it. So, I did the next best thing.
I ordered some instructional videos, bought a few outfits, robes and belts for the kick- bottom exercises and a few Tutu's and tights for the tight bottom ones and we all took the classes together in our living room. Tiger insisted he get a Tutu... Rhino was having nothing to do with it, so he was the DJ.
While Rhino thinks he's ready for a black belt after doing a few warm ups, Puppy has a great kick and Tiger does a mean plie; none of us are professionals. Still, we all learned a few new things and we had a lot of fun doing it. Plus, like any good team we had our cheers and spent our gas money and extra non-driving time on much needed treats.
Go Team Zoo!
I love having these times with my kids. As they get older their interests change and so do their opinions about how we do things. We may not always be able to do everything together but for now, we can and we do.
The newest hot topic is what sports to play in High School(too many movies, I think).
Monkey just wants to sing and dance, Tiger wants to do everything from swimming to fencing (and probably could do it all too) but since he'll probably run away from school, we'll more than likely get him involved in track. Monkey says she likes sports but I see her dominating the debate team and the Principal's office. Rhino is convinced he will play football and reminds me he'll be there in only six years... which means I'd better start working on my block...
Some of this comes out of necessity. With young kids and the older ones having special needs, I keep everyone at arms length. Sometimes, if I'm really stretched, I'll put Tiger on my shoulders, Monkey on my back, hold Puppy's hand and voice direct Rhino. This is why I have four children and a tired body, but, it works. Our circus act keeps them safe and me sane.
Other times, though, we rally together to live life to the fullest. Naturally, if one person is doing something exciting, we all want to do it. One of my biggest complaints about being a grown up is driving. If I was rich I would not hire a chef or even a maid (though my husband might prefer I look into that one). No, I would a hire a chauffeur. I am very grateful that I can drive but it is one of my least favorite thing to do. Thus, I refuse to be a taxi.
Besides the fact that I can't afford to have the kids all in different activities, I don't want to have to drive them all over the place. In addition, the kids think they really, really want to do something and then go back to their same obsessions.I still want my kids to experience things- just not everything that we have to make a commitment for and pay money to do.
A year ago, Tiger was really into swinging a bat. We wanted to put his talent to good use so we showed him how to hit a ball instead of his sister. After watching him hit and already knowing he could run, we signed him and Puppy up for t-ball. We tried to get Rhino on the same team but there were age limits and we were told his size would intimidate the younger kids (not the kids I saw- they would have sent him running).
Because of Tiger's special circumstances, one of us parents had to be the coach so since I was the one with the pen, I signed up Mr. Zookeeper. Our experience was great all around. Like most T- ball teams, the kids were chasing after the ball like women after chocolate. It didn't matter what position they played or who was in their way- that ball was hit and they were there. There were just as many parents on the field as kids, sometimes more and everyone was cheering and yelling directions to the oblivious four year olds who were just out to swing a bat, throw a ball and earn their treat.
It was a lot of fun. Puppy stood in ready position most of the time while Tiger only joined the game to hit and run, after reenacting a dance scene from High School Musical 2. He spent the off times off at the park or locked in his car seat to keep him from playing off at the park (we removed it from the car and put it in the dug out area so he could be close by when it was his turn). It was a fun summer.
Next, Rhino really wanted to learn Karate. Puppy wanted to take dance. Monkey was in that not-interested-in-holding-still stage and Tiger just wanted to run. There was no way I could afford the classes let alone support them in it. So, I did the next best thing.
I ordered some instructional videos, bought a few outfits, robes and belts for the kick- bottom exercises and a few Tutu's and tights for the tight bottom ones and we all took the classes together in our living room. Tiger insisted he get a Tutu... Rhino was having nothing to do with it, so he was the DJ.
While Rhino thinks he's ready for a black belt after doing a few warm ups, Puppy has a great kick and Tiger does a mean plie; none of us are professionals. Still, we all learned a few new things and we had a lot of fun doing it. Plus, like any good team we had our cheers and spent our gas money and extra non-driving time on much needed treats.
Go Team Zoo!
I love having these times with my kids. As they get older their interests change and so do their opinions about how we do things. We may not always be able to do everything together but for now, we can and we do.
The newest hot topic is what sports to play in High School(too many movies, I think).
Monkey just wants to sing and dance, Tiger wants to do everything from swimming to fencing (and probably could do it all too) but since he'll probably run away from school, we'll more than likely get him involved in track. Monkey says she likes sports but I see her dominating the debate team and the Principal's office. Rhino is convinced he will play football and reminds me he'll be there in only six years... which means I'd better start working on my block...
7.05.2011
Fire(works) and Ice(cream)
Nothing like kicking off the fourth of July weekend with a little swimming. They might look like mammals but deep down, all of the kids are part fish; they love the water. Being at an aunt and uncles house, we were the only ones around so it was calming to let everyone swim without having to keep them within arm distance. They could go down the slide, diving board (even Monkey) or just float around and I could still see everyone. The night was perfect and then we changed paces when we heard a BOOM!
Rhino's aren't usually very fast but when they need to, they can run very, very fast. Our Rhino had such a necessity. Not even his second Popsicle could convince him to stay within ear-sound or sight of the neighbors' evening of fireworks. We are accustomed to making speedy exits so we did just that.
Sunday was nice and relaxing without many sparks or alarming sounds. Of course I felt the need to feed a hungry mosquito while walking five feet from my car to the door (which was inside the garage) so the day was not completely uneventful but still calm.
Monday morning I was determined to enjoy my day. I woke up before everyone else (Okay- so it was like 10 minutes)and got the downstairs cleaned up since I couldn't do it the three previous nights. Not wanting to distract me from my cleaning, Mr. Zookeeeper offered to make breakfast so I could carry on (way to take one for the team hun'). Breakfast is a very big deal around here and Mr. Zookeeper rose to the challenge. We all enjoyed our feast and then the rest of the family enjoyed some good ole Mario Kart while I enjoyed some more cleaning... this time in the kitchen which also took one for the team's breakfast.
We had started a tradition about eight years ago to make homemade ice cream every fourth of July; since we'd never done it since, I thought it would be fun to give it another go. I made four flavors (to please everyone at least once) and concocted cookies and cream, mint and chip, berry and our own nut something... there was chocolate, peanut butter and mixed nuts- all my favorites!
In between flavors I got my game on as well. Puppy likes to JUST DANCE (a girl after my own heart). I was not going to be left out but did sacrifice a few moves so she could have the high score. It turns out that throwing a game to watch your kiddo beam is still very effective. I was afraid I'd lose too many pounds (or pass out- the benadryl was still flowing heavily) so we set off to find everyone else.
Mr. Zookeeper had disappeared for a while but we found him. Had we known what we were about to get roped in to we might have looked a little less harder. We found him cleaning and organizing the crawlspace/basement.... Sure- we'd love to help- be right back.
After being deserted by all, I too walked away from the 3/4 done project and enjoyed a nice nap... hey, it's cleaner than when we started.
Dinner and then off to get some sparklers. Mr. Zookeeper was going to just run to the store alone but decided to go potty first. Thus, we were all piling in the car before he had the chance to escape.
Rhino doesn't like fireworks. Never has and promises that regardless of how many times we try to turn him, he never ever will like them. Mr. Zookeeper has had to adjust to this. He LOVES fireworks and always saved up for months for the chance to blow things up legally in the front yard. Because he is so amazing, he has forfeited this love for Rhino's sanity.
After only buying sparklers... a bag of m&m's, 2 gallons of milk and 6 flyswatters (these sort of purchases are regular occurrences for us)we left the store. While Mr. Zookeeper could resist the piles of dynamite on the shelves, I guess the tents were too much for him. We all waited in the car while he went and scoped out the area.
Still mindful of Rhino, Mr. Zookeeper only got explosions that he felt Rhino could handle. In other words, the little pink and purple flowers that light up as they zoom in a circle. The show was anything but exciting but at least Mr. Zookeeper got to light some things on fire. Tiger has no aversion to fireworks. In fact, he was upset that he wasn't allowed to light anything without Dad.
"Where'd the matches go?"
"I don't know- wait- where's Tiger?"
Yes, I found the missing matches. Tiger wanted to see what 20 sparklers lit up in the kitchen could do.
If the simple poofs (there were no bangs, bams or booms) didn't send the kids indoors then the rain did. Rhino tried to convince me that his bedtime was at 8:30 and so it was more important for him to go to bed on time then to watch the fireworks show... nice try. Bedtime has meant nothing for the the last month so we'll make the exception for tonight.
We ate our ice cream and drove out to view some REAL fireworks...
"Does everyone have their headphones?"
Rhino had his shooting earmuffs so he could separate himself from the noise... Tiger always has his on and Puppy and Monkey didn't want to be left out so they faked a fear of noise as well.
We found the perfect spot. The kids all piled out. We only had 2 chairs so Mr. Zookeeper unlatched all of the car-seats and set them out for the kids. He was halfway through putting the van seat out on the pavement when my redneck radar went off. We agreed the car-seats would be adequate comfort for the time.
We watched surrounding neighborhoods light off their fireworks for about a minute when Rhino inquired if we were done now. Tiger ran down the street, Puppy peed on the side of the road and Monkey claimed to be freezing.
Second attempt to enjoy the evening. Rhino was in the front of the van with an ipod, Tiger in the trunk with the door open, Puppy in her car seat and Monkey wrapped up in a blanket with some fruit snacks.
Mr. Zookeeeper and I sat alone as we watched the sky light up. After being reminded yet again that Rhino was ready to go, we were happy to report that the city's show would be starting soon.
After having a husband and son that are obsessed with fire and blowing things up, I am always happy to sit and enjoy someone else's explosion.
The show started and I ran to point Tiger in the right direction. He was just as excited as I thought he would be and then 30 seconds later he was back to sleeping again... sure, he chooses the night that we are supposed to stay up late to make an early bedtime.
Puppy couldn't decide if she liked the fireworks or not. I think the final verdict was "like" but I can't be certain.
As usual, we prepared for a speedy exit. While it pleased the kids to finally get to go home, it had nothing to do with them. I became the night's dessert. I was trying to press on but when my forehead started swelling and getting hot, I had been bit by my last mosquito. It's one thing to impersonate Hercules with blown up arms and legs but I don't favor the Quasimodo look... it does nothing for me.
I went and stood alone in the dark trying to fend off the hungry beasts while Mr. Zookeeper put the van back together. We positioned the vehicle so we could still watch the finale. This was perfect until we realized that the van was no safer. The window had been down for too long prior and I got bit again. What can I say, I am irresistible.
With my head and arms swelling up- I was very happy I had decided to wear pants even though it was hot and was actually grateful to have been bit three days prior and had already gotten my medication for the summer. Mr. Zookeeper carried the kids off to bed and then helped me get there too. He held the ice pack on one arm while I held the heating pad on the other as well as my head. Not the most romantic close to an evening of fireworks but alas, we've learned to never plan too far ahead anyway.
So there was our Independence Day Celebration. Fire and Ice; a little something for everyone.
Fireworks for dad, ice cream for Rhino. Fire for Tiger and cool dance moves for Puppy. Monkey had it all as she stuck a sparkler in her ice cream. While my fire and ice came literally by the end of the night as I tried to nurse my wounds, I too enjoyed the excitement of the day. The hours seemed to fade as we got a day without all of the ordinary hassles. It was a perfect way to enjoy the freedoms that we have, and a perfect day to remember how blessed we are.
I couldn't help but get chocked up as I looked at the pictures in my family room. I always pause as I view them but today the declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the art work depicting the signing of the former gave me extra reason to reflect on the past and count my blessings. I couldn't help but sing a chorus or two in my heart as I watched the sky explode in celebration. (To spare everyone else- I did indeed keep them in my heart.)
I thought about my home and my religion. I thought about my family near and far. I pondered each one of my children and know how fortunate I am to raise them in a country that gives them rights regardless of their handicaps or gender. I am grateful for men and women who have stood up against adversity and made a difference. We continue to fight on and off the battlefield always remembering that In God We Trust.
I love birthdays! I couldn't think of a better way to spend honoring the birthday of my country than enjoying the freedoms that we have.
Thank you to all of those who have fought and continue to fight to give us these freedoms and a special thank you to those soldiers who let me spend a day with my family even if they couldn't do the same. God Bless You and may God Always Bless America!
Rhino's aren't usually very fast but when they need to, they can run very, very fast. Our Rhino had such a necessity. Not even his second Popsicle could convince him to stay within ear-sound or sight of the neighbors' evening of fireworks. We are accustomed to making speedy exits so we did just that.
Sunday was nice and relaxing without many sparks or alarming sounds. Of course I felt the need to feed a hungry mosquito while walking five feet from my car to the door (which was inside the garage) so the day was not completely uneventful but still calm.
Monday morning I was determined to enjoy my day. I woke up before everyone else (Okay- so it was like 10 minutes)and got the downstairs cleaned up since I couldn't do it the three previous nights. Not wanting to distract me from my cleaning, Mr. Zookeeeper offered to make breakfast so I could carry on (way to take one for the team hun'). Breakfast is a very big deal around here and Mr. Zookeeper rose to the challenge. We all enjoyed our feast and then the rest of the family enjoyed some good ole Mario Kart while I enjoyed some more cleaning... this time in the kitchen which also took one for the team's breakfast.
We had started a tradition about eight years ago to make homemade ice cream every fourth of July; since we'd never done it since, I thought it would be fun to give it another go. I made four flavors (to please everyone at least once) and concocted cookies and cream, mint and chip, berry and our own nut something... there was chocolate, peanut butter and mixed nuts- all my favorites!
In between flavors I got my game on as well. Puppy likes to JUST DANCE (a girl after my own heart). I was not going to be left out but did sacrifice a few moves so she could have the high score. It turns out that throwing a game to watch your kiddo beam is still very effective. I was afraid I'd lose too many pounds (or pass out- the benadryl was still flowing heavily) so we set off to find everyone else.
Mr. Zookeeper had disappeared for a while but we found him. Had we known what we were about to get roped in to we might have looked a little less harder. We found him cleaning and organizing the crawlspace/basement.... Sure- we'd love to help- be right back.
After being deserted by all, I too walked away from the 3/4 done project and enjoyed a nice nap... hey, it's cleaner than when we started.
Dinner and then off to get some sparklers. Mr. Zookeeper was going to just run to the store alone but decided to go potty first. Thus, we were all piling in the car before he had the chance to escape.
Rhino doesn't like fireworks. Never has and promises that regardless of how many times we try to turn him, he never ever will like them. Mr. Zookeeper has had to adjust to this. He LOVES fireworks and always saved up for months for the chance to blow things up legally in the front yard. Because he is so amazing, he has forfeited this love for Rhino's sanity.
After only buying sparklers... a bag of m&m's, 2 gallons of milk and 6 flyswatters (these sort of purchases are regular occurrences for us)we left the store. While Mr. Zookeeper could resist the piles of dynamite on the shelves, I guess the tents were too much for him. We all waited in the car while he went and scoped out the area.
Still mindful of Rhino, Mr. Zookeeper only got explosions that he felt Rhino could handle. In other words, the little pink and purple flowers that light up as they zoom in a circle. The show was anything but exciting but at least Mr. Zookeeper got to light some things on fire. Tiger has no aversion to fireworks. In fact, he was upset that he wasn't allowed to light anything without Dad.
"Where'd the matches go?"
"I don't know- wait- where's Tiger?"
Yes, I found the missing matches. Tiger wanted to see what 20 sparklers lit up in the kitchen could do.
If the simple poofs (there were no bangs, bams or booms) didn't send the kids indoors then the rain did. Rhino tried to convince me that his bedtime was at 8:30 and so it was more important for him to go to bed on time then to watch the fireworks show... nice try. Bedtime has meant nothing for the the last month so we'll make the exception for tonight.
We ate our ice cream and drove out to view some REAL fireworks...
"Does everyone have their headphones?"
Rhino had his shooting earmuffs so he could separate himself from the noise... Tiger always has his on and Puppy and Monkey didn't want to be left out so they faked a fear of noise as well.
We found the perfect spot. The kids all piled out. We only had 2 chairs so Mr. Zookeeper unlatched all of the car-seats and set them out for the kids. He was halfway through putting the van seat out on the pavement when my redneck radar went off. We agreed the car-seats would be adequate comfort for the time.
We watched surrounding neighborhoods light off their fireworks for about a minute when Rhino inquired if we were done now. Tiger ran down the street, Puppy peed on the side of the road and Monkey claimed to be freezing.
Second attempt to enjoy the evening. Rhino was in the front of the van with an ipod, Tiger in the trunk with the door open, Puppy in her car seat and Monkey wrapped up in a blanket with some fruit snacks.
Mr. Zookeeeper and I sat alone as we watched the sky light up. After being reminded yet again that Rhino was ready to go, we were happy to report that the city's show would be starting soon.
After having a husband and son that are obsessed with fire and blowing things up, I am always happy to sit and enjoy someone else's explosion.
The show started and I ran to point Tiger in the right direction. He was just as excited as I thought he would be and then 30 seconds later he was back to sleeping again... sure, he chooses the night that we are supposed to stay up late to make an early bedtime.
Puppy couldn't decide if she liked the fireworks or not. I think the final verdict was "like" but I can't be certain.
As usual, we prepared for a speedy exit. While it pleased the kids to finally get to go home, it had nothing to do with them. I became the night's dessert. I was trying to press on but when my forehead started swelling and getting hot, I had been bit by my last mosquito. It's one thing to impersonate Hercules with blown up arms and legs but I don't favor the Quasimodo look... it does nothing for me.
I went and stood alone in the dark trying to fend off the hungry beasts while Mr. Zookeeper put the van back together. We positioned the vehicle so we could still watch the finale. This was perfect until we realized that the van was no safer. The window had been down for too long prior and I got bit again. What can I say, I am irresistible.
With my head and arms swelling up- I was very happy I had decided to wear pants even though it was hot and was actually grateful to have been bit three days prior and had already gotten my medication for the summer. Mr. Zookeeper carried the kids off to bed and then helped me get there too. He held the ice pack on one arm while I held the heating pad on the other as well as my head. Not the most romantic close to an evening of fireworks but alas, we've learned to never plan too far ahead anyway.
So there was our Independence Day Celebration. Fire and Ice; a little something for everyone.
Fireworks for dad, ice cream for Rhino. Fire for Tiger and cool dance moves for Puppy. Monkey had it all as she stuck a sparkler in her ice cream. While my fire and ice came literally by the end of the night as I tried to nurse my wounds, I too enjoyed the excitement of the day. The hours seemed to fade as we got a day without all of the ordinary hassles. It was a perfect way to enjoy the freedoms that we have, and a perfect day to remember how blessed we are.
I couldn't help but get chocked up as I looked at the pictures in my family room. I always pause as I view them but today the declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the art work depicting the signing of the former gave me extra reason to reflect on the past and count my blessings. I couldn't help but sing a chorus or two in my heart as I watched the sky explode in celebration. (To spare everyone else- I did indeed keep them in my heart.)
I thought about my home and my religion. I thought about my family near and far. I pondered each one of my children and know how fortunate I am to raise them in a country that gives them rights regardless of their handicaps or gender. I am grateful for men and women who have stood up against adversity and made a difference. We continue to fight on and off the battlefield always remembering that In God We Trust.
I love birthdays! I couldn't think of a better way to spend honoring the birthday of my country than enjoying the freedoms that we have.
Thank you to all of those who have fought and continue to fight to give us these freedoms and a special thank you to those soldiers who let me spend a day with my family even if they couldn't do the same. God Bless You and may God Always Bless America!
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