Why Not Both?

Why do you have to choose sides? Why can't you celebrate the birth of Christ and also believe in Santa? I was raised knowing the main idea of Christmas is Jesus' birth...not Santa, he was a bonus. I was talking to someone last night who doesn't have Santa visit their house, her five year old daughter does not believe. It broke my heart, I believe the magic of Christmas is believing in Santa along with the miraculous birth. I know when I found out the truth, Christmas was not the same, the magic had somehow lessened. There is the debate; if you never had it, how would you know what you're missing. There just seems to be something in the air at this time of year, Santa's are everywhere, why not let them believe. Is she going to be one of those kids that spills the beans to her friends at school, therefore, putting doubt in their heads? I hope they will explain the importance of keeping the information to herself. My kids last year questioned whether he was real or not, Santa, not Jesus, because of kids in their classes knowing the truth. Maybe it helps that they go to a Catholic school and everywhere you look you see the celebration of Jesus' birth. Advent wreaths and mangers in every room, along with a Christmas tree(with nun ornaments!) in the lobby and Santa's too. They are getting both events at their school, so if that's happening there, is it really so bad? I know one day they will loose some of the magic, like most of us have, I will not be the one to help it along. So if you ever come to my house, you will be greeted by our gigantic Santa in the yard. Once inside you will see the manger under our tree, along with the advent wreath, made in art class, hanging in the computer room above our mini manger. In my opinion, we have the best of both worlds!

This next week is going to be very busy around here, if I don't get a chance to write, everyone, please have a very Merry Christmas!! For those of you who celebrate Hanukkah, sorry to have wasted your time with this blog. I hope you have been having a wonderful Hanukkah season.

Until next time-
Take Care,
Sue

Nasty-Gram

No, I didn't get buried in all the snow, in fact, the only thing we got was a rain/snow mix! I know I have said how busy things have gotten around here, so I know you all understand when I miss a week. It has been hard for me to come to the computer and write this blog. My husband used to tease me about having such thin skin, meaning...I'm too sensitive. Just about every week I sit down in front of my computer and pour my heart out to all of you. Some people are surprised at how open I am with you. I have to be in order for you to understand what it's like being a single parent of six kids all under the age of 12, and one of them having Down Syndrome. I know I'm not perfect, and I'm sure there are things I have done that many of you disagree with, but to send mean comments, is that really fair? If you're going to send a nasty-gram, at least have the courage to sign your name. I am deeply hurt when something like this happens, and it makes it difficult for me to share my experiences with you. I wish I had the thick skin my husband had, there are traits of his that wore off on me, that wasn't one of them. I ask that if you have nothing nice to say, don't say anything at all. I will be back next week, hopefully I can put this behind me and share once again.

Until next time-
Take Care,
Sue

Black Friday

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving yesterday, we had a nice relaxing one. It was just Sherry and her family, and my brother Rick and his wife Anne Marie. My brother John was in Arizona with his family. Sherry was the chef for the day, I helped, it was at my house. After dinner, my Aunt, Uncle, cousin and his family came over for dessert. I was exhausted by the end of the evening. The kids and I got into our jammies and watched Home Alone, they fell asleep one by one. It was a good day!

Last Friday I took the kids to a swine flu shot clinic, I didn't realize how crowded it would be. We waited in line for almost an hour, going through two check points. Helen was starting to loose her patience, she wanted to keep walking once we started, and got so frustrated when we had to stop and wait again. She was starting to stamp her foot and say, "Go, Mom, Goooo!" At the second check point I asked them if there were anyway we could move ahead in line in order to get Helen the shot. I explained she was loosing her patience, and what would happen if she lost them completely. She would have a "meltdown" and would not cooperate when receiving her shot, in other words...it would get ugly. They moved us right on through and not only gave Helen her shot, but my other kids also. I knew someone who was a couple of people ahead of us, and they told me it was another 1/2 hour waiting from that check point. I made the right decision. I don't like using Helen for an excuse, but it would have turned into a nightmare very quickly!

On Monday I had Helen's conference at school, it went okay. The problem we are having is, Helen's program is really geared for higher functioning. If we moved her to the next level down, it would be the low functioning program. There is NO in between, which is not good. They used to have something for that group, but they did away with it because of the funding. Helen's teachers are going to meet with the supervisor of special education and see if they can't do something about it. Helen is not the only one with the problem and if they see a need, maybe they bring it back. I am ready for the fight, I'm just waiting on the teachers. I will keep you posted on the progress.

I put up our outdoor decorations today, it's not much, I don't do lights, I don't know how to put them up. I hate to say that our 12 foot Santa is on the injured list, the kids are very disappointed. I went to change one of the lights and found the cord had broken. It actually looks like it had been cut. In order to get to the cord you have to unzip the compartment on the bottom of his foot. I thought maybe my neighbor got frustrated during the night with the light and went out and cut it. I highly doubt it though, he would have to know about the zipper. I'm going to have a friend come over and take a look, maybe he can fix it. It's always something!!

Well, happy black Friday, I hope those of you brave enough to shop found and got what you were looking for!

Until next time-

Take Care,

Sue

Tough Week

This is my first blog on my office computer, sweet!! My friend gave me her old computer so I could have a computer to myself for the business, it is working out fantastic! Katie and Robbie's basketball games were very exciting. Katie's score was 20-21, they won by just one point! Robbie's team lost by two points, but it was non-stop. I'm looking forward to Saturday's games. They both have practice on Wednesdays, so every other week they miss Greek school in order to go. Grace screamed on the way to Greek school, she didn't want to go because Katie wasn't going to be there. This started a couple weeks ago, the same week basketball practice started. I'm baffled by her behavior, this is the same girl who didn't want me to come into her classroom on the first day of Kindergarten, Miss Independent! She would not let me go when I dropped her off at school, I had to peel her off of me. If I didn't make her stay, this would happen every single Wednesday. When I picked them up, I went inside so I could see how she did. There she was, standing in the classroom with all her friends, singing Jingle Bells! She said, "Mommy, I didn't know I'd have a good time." I don't get it, she has been going to Greek school since September. So I asked her if she was going to cry next time she has to go, and she said, "Um, maybe, we'll see!"...Miss Independent, no doubt!

Helen has been having a rough week, I'm not looking forward to her conference on Monday. She has been so naughty, she has been poking her friends, even after I tell her not to touch her friends at school. She has been making noises, being very disruptive. She was kicked out of religion class last night because she wouldn't listen and calm down. She is now getting her privileges on the WII taken away from her, I don't know what else I can do about her behavior issues. If any of you have any suggestions, please share, at this point, I will try anything.

Until next time-

Take Care,

Sue

Back To My Regularly Scheduled Blog

Aaahhh, back on track! Noah went to his first birthday party over the week-end, he had a great time. I was able to drop him off and leave right away...no staying until he transitioned. Last year when I dropped him off at school, I could never leave until after the class said the Pledge of Allegiance. I was the only parent sitting on the rug singing "Hi good morning friends, how are you today?..." After the song we would stand up and say the Pledge, then it was free time, which was my cue to leave. My goal this year was to be able to just drop him off and leave, I wanted to reach it by the end of the school year. Well, to my surprise, I have already reached that goal thanks to Noah. One day, out of the blue, while walking to his class, he told me, "Just leave, don't come to my class." Now he gets mad at me if I go with him. Yesterday when I was helping him with his coat he told me, "Now, go to the kitchen Mom, don't come to my class."(it was hot lunch day) Now that I can't go with him, I miss going! I am so glad he has found some independence and doesn't need me with him every second of the day. I now watch other parents go through what I did last year and think to myself, a year really makes a difference.

Helen had another issue at school yesterday, this time she left a mark on a first grader's face. I didn't get the whole story because her teacher didn't see it, she was told what happened. After Helen arrived at school, she went on the playground before the bell rang. It was there that she pushed a little girl off the equipment, I think it was the slide. The girl hit her face, I don't know on what, and cut her cheek. She was taken to the nurse, where they called home to let her parents know what happened. The dad was not too pleased, which, no parent would be! Helen can no longer play in the morning, she has to go from the bus directly to the second grade line. She doesn't get recess today or tomorrow, because she didn't listen to the principal yesterday. I didn't quite understand what happened with him, I think he told her to stay off the playground and she went anyway. My question is, WHO THE HECK IS KEEPING AN EYE ON HER! They know the kids can get her wound up, and egg her on. They know she doesn't know her limits and does it all in good fun. I tell her everyday, "Have a good day at school, don't touch any of the kids at school, play nice, and listen to your teachers." I take privileges away, or even her favorite snack if she gets a sad face on her daily chart, or if the teacher tells me she has been naughty. She now understands the difference between behaving and being naughty. She tells me every Saturday before we go to church, "Noah has to behave, right?" That tells me she understands. I don't know what else I can do, I'm afraid one of these days she will hurt someone a lot worse than a cut on the cheek. Pray, pray, pray...

Ted and I went to my niece's sweet sixteen party on Sunday, we had a great time. He made the age cut off, that's why he was the only one invited. That was a great idea to do that, otherwise, I would have had kids complaining it was taking too long, or it was boring. It was at my sister-in-law, Maria's, restaurant, so there wasn't any place to go and play. Maria decorated the place beautifully, it was gorgeous. The food, once again, was fantastic...I have no complaints, well, maybe one. I had to see some relatives I could do without (extended family). Some of the things they did to us when Peter was alive was deplorable, I have no respect for them, nor will I EVER! Family should not be treated that way. Maybe they don't have the same standards as I do when it comes to the way you treat family...respect, respect, respect!

Basketball starts Saturday, bright and early for Katie...8:00am...UGGGHHHH!!! Robbie's game is later in the day...YEAH!!! Everyone have a nice week-end, can you believe Thanksgiving is two weeks away? I can't! That means Christmas is not far behind, YIKES, I need to start shopping!

Until next time-
Take Care,
Sue

Going Once, Twice...$30.00

I took Helen to the thyroid doctor today, it went very well. My other kids were home from school, yesterday and today were parent/teacher conferences at their school. I asked my father-in-law to watch them while I took Helen to her appointment. We were at Children's Hospital, and who knows what germs are floating around there, I didn't want to take any chances. While we were there, every time I came across hand sanitizer, I squirted my hands and then rubbed Helen's. In the past, I would have brought all the kids with me, it's scary! After her appointment we had to go to the lab so she could have blood drawn. It used to be that the doctor's office put the orders in the computer for the blood draw while we made our way down to the lab. Now, they make an appointment for you, it's usually within 10-15 minutes from the time you leave the doctor's office. We only had to wait 10 minutes, one time we waited an hour for Helen to get called for blood work! I bet it's because of the H1N1, they don't want people hanging around for long periods of time. They have already prohibited young children from visiting anyone in the hospital. If you are exhibiting any of the symptoms of H1N1, you have to wear a mask. Thank goodness we didn't come across anyone in a mask, that's frightening.

All the conferences went well, thank goodness! My only beef...they scheduled 10 minutes for each conference, they gave me no time for the commute from classroom to classroom. Grace's meeting was at 12:30, Katie at 12:40, Robbie at 12:50, and Ted at 1:00. I didn't get to Ted's conference until almost 1:30! I had to wait to get into one of my conferences which also threw the whole schedule off.

We had a good time last week-end, we started it off with the Fall Frolic at the kid's school. Helen did such a great job, I set her up at a table right in front of the kitchen, gave her popcorn and juice, she was good to go! I was helping out in the kitchen, this way I could keep an eye on her. Fall Frolic is our school's Halloween party, we have games, mad scientist lab, bake sale, pie auction, popcorn, drinks, and trick or treat at the end. The kids really enjoy it! I bid for a chocolate pie that Robbie really wanted. The starting bid they were asking for was $10.00, so I bid that. My friend Catherine called out $20.00! I knew from an earlier pie that she wouldn't go over $30.00, I waited. $20.00 going once, going twice...that was my cue..."$30.00" I yelled. I caused quite a roar in the room, which is what I had wanted to do, make it exciting. I was right with my strategy, Catherine would not go over $30.00, so we won. I love to hear Helen tell the story! She throws in 25 cents, $4.00, and some other figures, it's very cute. When we got home I wanted to taste the pie to see if it's the same one I make...it was. It costs about $7.00 to make that pie, even less for this one, they didn't put cool whip on it. Anything for the kids!(well...almost anything.)

Sunday night is my niece's (Peter's side) sweet sixteen party. Ted was the only one of my kids invited, I don't know why, but I know there is a reason. It is being held at my sister-in-law's restaurant, so really, not much to do. It will make it less stressful for me, I won't have kids complaining whats taking so long. It is going to be date night for Ted and I, we are also going to celebrate his report card. He got four A's and three B's, and received a higher grade in gym than the "jocks" in his class. He is doing a great job in school this year! Basketball has started, the first games are next week-end. Katie and Robbie are both playing, it has been crazy busy around here lately.

Sherry usually blogs about the business, but seeing how it's already November and we still don't have product, I thought I should update a little. We had every intention of launching the clothing line in October, it was perfect timing since it coincided with Down Syndrome Awareness Month. When Sherry first started this endeavor, she was no longer working in corporate America. Since then, in order for her to fund this, and, not to mention, pay her bills, she has had to go back to work. She isn't able to spend as much time as she used to on it, so it's taking a little longer than expected. We still have our pattern maker, and have just recently brought on board someone to help with the production. We also have our website under construction. So although you don't see anything, yet, things are moving along, just mostly behind the scenes for now. Please bear with us, we have great ideas, and have used a lot of the comments that you have shared with us, so please, keep them coming. Thanks for your patience.

Until next time-
Take Care,
Sue

Illness

The past couple of weeks have been crazy around here. Ted competed in his last cross country meet and placed 7th out of 15. He beat his time by 2 minutes, and this was the longest race, so he did awesome. Robbie played his last football game for the season, the team finished in 4th, out of 5 teams. Ted ran in the rain, and Robbie played on a cold windy day. We had other things going on that week also, it felt like we were burning a candle at both ends. I was the first one to get sick, I thought maybe I had overdone it while working in the yard. I was very achy, and very tired. When I woke up the next morning I knew I was sick, my head was killing me. I tried to rest most of the day, but I had errands to do, and things to get done around the house. I shouldn't have pushed myself so hard, it only made things worse. When the kids got dropped off from school, I was on the couch with a fever, chills, body aches, and no energy. Thank goodness my father-in-law stopped by, he stayed and looked after the kids while I rested. Soon after, the kids started dropping like flies! Ted was the first, his complaint was a sore throat. I thought it was sore because of all the coughing he had been doing. He wound up going to the doctor and was diagnosed with strep throat. Helen got sick very soon after Ted, she had a fever and vomited once before bed. She also had a cough, I thought the cough medicine I had given her might have caused her to get sick, because she didn't get sick again. I got sick on Sunday evening, Ted and Helen Monday night. Tuesday morning I asked everyone how they felt, the kids that were well anyway. Ted and Helen still had fevers so they couldn't go to school. I sent, Grace, Katie and Robbie to school that morning, only to have the school secretary call me about an hour after school started, "Come and pick up Robbie, he doesn't feel well, he's warm, and he doesn't look good." Robbie had body aches, cough, and a fever. I had Ted laying on one couch, Robbie on another, and Helen on the other, with Noah laying across the big chair. I decided to take his temperature, sure enough...he was sick too. Katie and Grace made it the whole day at school, Katie started to complain that evening. Come Wednesday morning, I had one child in school, Grace. I called everyone in sick to school, Greek school, and religion class, we weren't going anywhere. Fevers were starting to break, I was starting to feel good myself, finally a light at the end of the tunnel. Thursday rolls around, Helen is back at school, she had been fever free for 24 hours, she was the only one. Robbie was starting to feel much better and was on his way to the 24 hour rule. I got a call from the school secretary, Grace wasn't feeling well and wanted to come home. She had a low grade fever, and had the sniffles. She didn't seem as sick as the others had been, she must have picked up another bug. Ted had been on his antibiotic and was fever free for 24 hours, he was going back to school on Friday. Robbie too had made it 24 hours without a fever, along with Katie and Noah. Everyone was able to go back to school on Friday, I even sent Grace because she said she felt fine. I helped hang art work at the school for our Fall Frolic party coming up on the 30th. I felt terrible, I had caught the cold that Grace had. I was sneezing, my eyes were watering, I was miserable. I picked up Noah from preschool and headed home to rest until the kids were done at school. I received a phone call from Grace's teacher, she isn't feeling very well, come and get her. Then Grace says in the background, "No, I don't want to go home." The teacher says, okay, and tells me she will call if things change. Well, of course she called, Grace was sick, so I went and picked her up. I got to rest for a very short time and then it was time to pick everyone up. I was being blown away by the wind when I picked up Helen, I have to get out of the car and meet her and her teacher. I was miserable waiting in the stuffy car for the other kids to come out of school. My eyes were so hot, they needed to close for awhile. As soon as we got home, I went and laid down and closed my eyes. That was the best thing I could have done. I had been so busy taking care of everyone else, I let myself fall to the wayside...not good! After a couple of hours, I felt a little better, so I checked on everyone and got started with dinner. I was able to get a full night's sleep on Friday, nobody got up during the night needing anything. Saturday I felt much better, I still had the eye issue, but it was doing much better. All the kids were doing better too, they all had coughs, but nothing else. Come Sunday, yesterday, Grace was not feeling well, she looked like I did with the cold. I told her she wasn't going to school today, she said, "Wait, do I have anything going on today?" She was busted...she should have never gone to school on Friday, she went because they were having movie day. The teacher brought in a movie and they had treats while watching it. She made it through getting the treats passed out, and that's when the teacher called. I know this because she brought all her treats home with her! About a half hour after school started my phone rings, it's the school secretary, Katie isn't feeling well. I question this one, she had no complaints this morning, and she was fine all week-end. I brought her home, she is in her pj's and is laying on the big chair, while Grace is on the couch. Both are fever free, let's hope it stays that way for tomorrow. Sometimes Katie cries wolf, I think today is one of those days. The thing about crying wolf these days with the H1N1, the school doesn't care, they'll send her home, they don't want anyone there who may pass it along. It's been rough, but thank goodness, they could have been a lot sicker than what they were. I heard there is a lot going around out there, I think we had it all under this roof! "Wash your hands, wash your hands, wash your hands!" That's about all I've been saying lately!!!

Until next time-
Take Care,
Sue

Conflict

We have had such gloomy weather these past couple of days. It rained yesterday, off and on, and this morning it's raining again. Helen is the only one who has school today, the kids were off yesterday too. When I woke up with Helen yesterday to get her ready for school, I was so tired. The weather didn't help matters, I wanted to crawl back in bed. After she left for school, I did just that, and regretted it the rest of the day. I was tired all day yesterday, and had no motivation. This morning, once again, I wanted to crawl back in bed after she left. I made myself stay up remembering how I felt yesterday. I have already gotten quite a few things done, hopefully this will be a much better day.

Ted ran in his first cross country meet the other day, I don't think he really knew what was in store for him. He finished, that's all that matters, I was very proud of him. He ran 1.24 miles, the farthest he has ever gone. Later that night I asked him how he felt, he told me, "Okay, my legs hurt though!" He definitely needs more training. Robbie has his last football game tomorrow, and then they start the play-offs. His team is ranked #4, that's out of 5 teams. For his sake and his team, I hope they go far in the play-offs, but for me and the kids, I hope not. It is starting to get cold, and the kids sit there the whole game and complain how cold they are. I tell them to bundle up, and they still complain. They don't appreciate attending sporting events...yet. We have many years attending these games, I think Robbie will always be involved with one sport or another. Ted has his track, and who knows what Noah will be interested in. Let's not forget Katie, who starts basketball next month. Like Noah, we still don't know where Grace's interests lie. Then there's Helen, I was told of a program that sounds like something she would enjoy, and she is getting to the point where she will be able to participate. Oh my goodness...my head is starting to spin! I have a feeling there may be some time conflicts, I already have one this week-end. Robbie has his football game, and Ted has an activity he needs to do with the Boy Scouts in order for him to cross over in February. The game is at 10:30, but Robbie needs to be there at 9:45 for warm up. Ted's Cub Scout activity starts at 10:00, I can't be two places at once. Luckily, I put my distress signal out, and it was answered. My brother John is going to take Ted, and I will take Robbie. John and Ted will be busy cleaning the section of highway the Boy Scouts have adopted, while the rest of us are at the football game. You're probably thinking, "Oh sure, she gives the harder job to her brother!", but not really, he will have Ted ONLY...enough said.

I can't believe Halloween is right around the corner, and with it, the headache of costumes! The kids are older now and getting quite picky about what they want to be. Gone are the days when I bought the costumes at 90% off after Halloween and held on to them for the following year. They didn't care if their costumes were last year's news! Besides sewing them myself (I don't sew), anyone know where I can get them for cheap? Leave me a comment, thanks!:0)

Until next time-
Take Care,
Sue

Coupons

I finally remembered to bring my coupons to the grocery store with me, I saved $14.20! It helped that I stuck to the list. I also used my coupons when shopping at ShopKo, which is similar to K-Mart. I had to buy other things that I didn't have a coupon for, but to my surprise, it was all on sale. I saved $8.25 with my coupons. They don't calculate total savings at that store, but I can only imagine how much I saved. Most things were 60% off, and also buy one, get one 1/2 off. My biggest savings came from Kohl's, I couldn't believe it when the cashier told me how much my savings were. I had to get Ted uniform pants since he sprouted over the summer and I didn't even realize it. While getting his pants, I noticed they also had uniform shirts on sale too, so I bought him a few of those in the bigger size. Since I was there, I decided to check the sale rack for Helen. I found capri stretch pants on sale for $4.20, the length will hit the top of her shoe...perfect! I also needed a few unmentionables...total savings...$80.41! I am quite proud of myself!:0)

This afternoon I am picking Helen up early and we are taking Toby to the kid's school for the pet blessing, in honor of St. Francis of Assisi. I am also taking Robbie's Eeyore, and Grace's Baby Bear. I am a bit nervous about how Toby will act, being a scaredy cat and all. All the kids in the school will be there, along with other pets and their owners. Last year I was bombarded with kids wanting to see Toby, although last year he was just a puppy. I'm hoping for the best, wish me luck.

Until next time-
Take Care,
Sue..................sorry so short!:0(

Overcrowding

Back in August I wrote about the possibility of Katie and Grace getting a device to help stop them from sucking their thumbs. It is now a reality for Katie and she needs much more than that. I took her and Robbie to the orthodontist for an evaluation the other day and I didn't receive good news. They both have overcrowding going on inside their mouths, Katie more than Robbie. He can wait until after he is twelve, that's when the last of the molars will be in. Katie on the other hand, needs them NOW. She needs an expander on her upper and lower, and then braces. When Katie was in Kindergarten, she had to have her front tooth pulled because she broke it when she fell on a stair at school, it STILL hasn't come in (Katie's in second grade). Come to find out, there has been no room for them, so they are staying put. With the expander, it will make room for her teeth to come in, and the braces will keep them straight. Her bottom teeth are just as bad, she has one tooth that popped through the gum outside of the line (it hurt when it came in). I need to come up with half of the money for the down payment and the office will put me on a payment plan for the rest. I'm lucky Robbie didn't need them right away, I don't know what I would have done.

Not only did they see the Orthodontist, they also had a visit with the Ophthalmologist. Katie needs an adjustment with her prescription, and Robbie needs glasses. Since losing our COBRA coverage last month, I have had to find other doctors for the kids. I have been lucky so far, they seem to be on top of things. The true test will be when I take Helen to see these new doctors. I asked each one if they have other patients with Down Syndrome and was told yes each time. If they don't have patience with Helen, then I will know they weren't telling me the truth. I had to make appointments with the pediatrician so the kids could get their flu shots. I'm torn about this new vaccine for the swine flu. I'm worried about Helen this flu season, it hits her hard. I am running low on my huge bottle of hand sanitizer. When I go to purchase another one, I'm going to buy for the kid's classrooms too. I have been told by every health professional I have talked to, the key is good hand washing. Come to think of it...I better buy a huge bottle of hand lotion too!!

Until next time-
Take Care,
Sue

Back In The Swing of Things

So far so good at Helen's school, everything seems to be falling into place. She spends her mornings included with her new teachers, and the afternoons in the special ed. classroom with her teacher from last year. She is helping her with math, Helen's worst subject. There have been a few issues with her behavior, but nothing where I have received a phone call. I just hope the whole year is like this. The other kids have adjusted nicely to being back at school. Ted had his first practice for cross country and loved it. Every time a letter was sent home about different sports, and sport clinics, I would ask Ted if he wanted to do it. The answer was always the same, NO. When the letter came home about cross country, I read it, and then proceeded to put it in the recycle pile. Ted walked in as I was doing this and said, "Oh yeah, I want to join that Mom, okay?" I was shocked, I never see him run, so I asked, "Do you know what cross country is?" I then went on to explain all about it. He told me, "Yes, I know, I like to run, I can run fast, are you going to sign me up!?!" How could I argue, this kid is not very active, this would be the perfect opportunity to get him moving! I'm glad he likes it, he is starting to find his niche. Robbie on the other hand is still trying to figure it out. He begged me to sign him up for football, so I did. He didn't realize just how physical the sport is, he doesn't like to get pushed around. He wants to play wide receiver, but instead plays defensive tackle. He thinks if he plays offense he won't get tackled. I told him it doesn't matter what position you play, you're going to get tackled, that's what the game is about. He told me he doesn't want to play next year, but he still wants to be a professional football player someday. I told him nothing is going to change with the sport whether it's now or later. He told me he knows that, but at least later he'll be bigger! Katie is going to start playing basketball, hopefully she will like it better than softball. When playing softball this past summer, she said the ball didn't like her because she kept getting hit by it!

Ted turned 11 on Monday, where does the time go? He is getting so tall, I couldn't believe it when he was standing next to me one day. He had a good day, I was a bit sad. I was telling him about the day he was born, it brought back many memories. Peter was so excited and was such a big help with Ted, not only in the hospital, but once we brought him home. Peter had put Ted's crib together in the living room, and when we tried to move it into the bedroom, it couldn't fit through the door. We had to leave it in the living room for awhile because Peter didn't have the patience to take it apart and put it back together. He slept on the floor right beside Ted's crib every night until we moved him into his bedroom, which was across the hall from us. Life can be so unfair!

We had our parish festival this past week-end, it was fun. My plan was to go on Friday night for the brat fest, five different flavors of brats. Work the meat raffle on Saturday night, and then take Sunday to relax and get a few things done around the house. It didn't work that way...Friday night they had nothing up for the kids. They saw the bouncy house and wanted to come back the next day to jump in it. That wouldn't work, Saturday was a busy day, and I had already committed to the meat raffle. I found myself back at the festival on Sunday, I really didn't want to go. The kids had a blast, that's all that counts! There wasn't that good of a turn out. Helen was able to stay in the bouncy house most of the time we were there, which is exactly where she wanted to be! The rest of the kids met up with a friend or two and only came to me for tickets, or money. It was actually quite nice to be able to sit and talk with other adults while the kids went about their business. I did spend more money than I had wanted, but it went to a good place.

I need to get back to taking the pool down. I was hoping the kids would be able to swim one more time, but the weather isn't going to let that happen. I wish someone would have warned me about the smell, my goodness! It's all emptied, I just need to wipe it down, that should get rid of that terrible smell.

Until next time-
Take Care,
Sue

First Days of School

Robbie, Katie , Ted
Noah

Grace

Helen

It is official...all the kids are back to school. It has been very overwhelming for me. I remember feeling this same way last year. I tried to psych myself up this year, but it didn't work. There has been an abundance of paper work that has come home that I have to keep track of which piece goes back with which kid. There have been fees for this, and fees for that. My hand has been in my wallet non-stop, I'm already broke for the month. There have been issues at the schools already. One of Ted's good friends didn't come back this year because of a bully problem. He was bullied all last year, and from what I have been told, nothing was done about it. The bully is still there! This kid picked on Ted in second grade, I didn't hear about it until the end of the year. At the beginning of third and also fourth grade, I spoke with Ted's teachers and informed them of the problem. I asked that Ted not be paired up with this kid if at all possible, and told Ted to keep his distance. Ted has been happy these past two years with very minimal teasing. I am afraid now that the friend is gone, which, by the way, I had no idea how bad it was or I would have tried to help, Ted will be on the receiving end of the bully. I have spoken with the teacher on several occasions (it helps to be a hot lunch mom!) and also the principal. I have told them I will pull my kids out of that school if Ted gets bullied and nothing is done about it. I will not wait until the end of the year, I will not tolerate it. I have discussed this with the kids and have told them to look out for each other. The problem with that is, Ted has a different recess now that he is in fifth grade. Recess time is when it mostly happens. I have been told by the principal they are going to initiate a new bully program this year. He pulls me aside whenever he sees me and asks how things are going. In mass yesterday with the school kids Father mentioned he doesn't want to have any bully problems this year. It is good to see they finally realize there is an issue. It took losing a lot of good families to finally wake up and smell the coffee. Our enrollment is way down, the worst it's been in years. We are the cheapest Catholic school in town, our classrooms should be filled, and their should be a waiting list to get in. Sadly, that's not the case. I am praying since Ted has really grown over the summer and is bigger than the bully, he will be left alone. Problem is...he'll find someone else to pick on. I am so far, the loudest advocate for this issue, everyone else has quietly walked away. It helps to have Helen, I have learned to be loud when it comes to my children's needs.

That's another story...Helen...the district decided over the summer they want the special needs kids to be included 100% of the day. It sounds good and looks good on paper, but what about the child that can't handle that, then what? Helen happens to be one of those kids, there is no way she can sit in a regular classroom all day. It will be too quiet for her, she will have to make noise, and she did. On Friday a note was sent home telling me she had a good day except for making noises in class, can I work with her over the week-end with "no sounds". Okay, fine, I'll do that, but that doesn't mean come Monday she'll be cured of "no sounds"! I have been on the phone with her teacher from last year, and her teacher this year. They know I don't agree with this arrangement. Well, they must have gotten together and talked about it because they are pulling Helen out of the regular classroom for certain subjects and putting her in a special ed. class. That is what she needs. I'm not saying they need to do this for all special needs kids, this may work out fantastically for someone else, it's not the best thing for Helen. Remember last year they were talking about changing her program because she needed more one on one time. Why on earth would they think she wouldn't need it this year? Because I have been so vocal, changes have taken place, and the year is looking better. Helen no longer rides the bus home, I pick her up in order to talk with her teacher everyday. I have been somewhat in a fog these last three years, just going through the motions. I am now ready to be loud once more when it comes to my kids, and believe me, I can be LOUD!

Until next time-

Take Care,

Sue

Short But Sweet

I must apologize, this week went by so quickly. I have been feeling overwhelmed , there have been a few issues with the kids starting school. I am going to take this week off from blogging so i can give it 100%, I hope you understand. I will be back next week, and I will fill you in on what's been going on.

Until next time-
Take Care,
Sue

Life

I am saddened by the death of Sen. Edward(Ted) Kennedy. I wouldn't be in the shoes I'm in today if it weren't for most of his legislation. He did so much for people with disabilities, and also low-income families. I wish he would have been around longer to help with this health insurance mess. Our COBRA expired this month, we were only eligible for three years after Peter died. I looked into commercial insurance for my family, there is no way I can afford it. We can't go without, especially with all of Helen's health issues. It would make life a lot easier if health care was more affordable. In the three years I paid for COBRA, it cost me roughly $25,000.00, that's a lot of money! The kids and I could have taken a nice vacation to Greece to see where their dad was born for 1/3 of that money. If only...

Helen is looking forward to starting school, she was so mad yesterday when Ted, Robbie, and Katie started. When we came home from dropping them off, Helen went into her backpack and started playing with her school supplies. It wouldn't have been so bad, but Toby decided to chew on her pencils, that really got her mad. Today we had a meeting with Grace's kindergarten teacher, Helen was mad again. She wanted to sit on the carpet and have books read to her. Then she went next door to Noah's preschool room to play. I can't wait for her to start on Monday, and neither can she. Noah on the other hand, he could care less if school ever starts again.

I recently joined Facebook and I'm addicted. I am always checking it to see who said what. I love that I have found many old friends, I feel reconnected, and that's a good feeling. I no longer feel so isolated, and have even more chances to get out and do something. There is talk of us all getting together for a little reunion. I hope it comes together, I'd love to see so many of them again, and just have fun.

Until next time-
Take Care,
Sue

Circus Time

The circus crew
Helen, Katie, and Grace on the camel

Elephant ride

About three weeks ago the kids and I went out for the afternoon, when we came home it felt like the air conditioner wasn't on. It was one of the rare days around here that we needed it. I knew I had turned it on before we left so we could come home to a nice cool house. I knew we would be sweaty since my car air conditioner decided not to work this summer. I checked the thermostat, yep, it was on. I went downstairs and looked at the unit and at the fuse box, I really had no idea what I was looking for, but at least I gave it a look. I then went outside to check the fan, I could hear a hum coming from it, but nothing else. I decided to turn it off, the noise I heard couldn't be good, and who knew how long it had been like that since we were gone all afternoon. My central air is the last thing I need to have break, the car is bad enough with the kids complaining how hot they are. I called the repair service and left a message. I almost walked across the street to my neighbor who is the owner of the repair service, but wasn't gutsy enough. If it had been really hot, I would have, but we weren't suffering, so I didn't impose. The next day he called and said someone would be over around lunch time. The guy showed up and checked everything I did, I was proud of myself, although I still didn't know what we were looking for! Everything in the house checked out so we went to look at the fan. Sure enough, he heard the exact same noise I did, and thought he knew what the problem was. He took the cover off of the electrical panel...lo and behold, guess what he found...an earwig. It had crawled into the wires and was electrocuted, which in turn, shorted out my connection. When the bug was removed, my air conditioner fan turned back on and all was well...except my wallet! That was the most expensive bug I have ever come across, I should have had it framed!

The circus was in town last week-end, Sherry and I took the kids. My wonderful neighbors gave me free tickets, otherwise we wouldn't have been able to go. During the fifteen minute intermission, the kids took an elephant ride. I wanted Helen and Noah to go, but they didn't want to. We still had tickets left with time running out of our intermission. All the kids wanted to ride again, or take the tickets for something else. There were eight kids, the rides started at two tickets, there just weren't enough. Since I already lost an arm and a leg with the price of all the tickets, I couldn't afford to loose another arm and a leg! Sherry took the boys, except Noah, and went back to our seats while I figured out what to do with the rest of the tickets. I really wanted Helen and Noah to do something, time was running out. We walked by the camel ride, no line, I decided to have Katie and Grace ride just so we could use up the tickets. When they got up to the top, Helen decided she wanted to ride. I was so frazzled, the guy told me we had enough tickets since it only took two to ride the camel. The girls got on, I took a few pictures, they took a short ride, and we were on our way to see the rest of the circus, which had already started. It was a good time, fun was had by all.

We are starting to get ready for school, it starts Wednesday for Ted, Robbie, and Katie. I'm happy to get back into a routine, but sad that our carefree days of staying up late and sleeping in are over. Helen and Grace start the following week, and Noah starts the week after that. I will have five of them in school all day...WOOHOO!!

Until next time-

Take Care,

Sue

Thank You

Thank you, thank you, thank you to all of my family and friends who came and stood in the thunderstorm for Peter's memorial. It started to downpour after the service so I didn't get a chance to thank all of you personally. It meant a lot to me to see all of my family, in-laws included, and MY friends there. I am very disappointed in Peter's friends, not one of them showed up. I personally called every single one that I had a phone number to, and they all said they would be there. I guess they were afraid they would melt! I think I'm even more disappointed that I haven't received any emails or phone calls apologizing for the "no show". I'm trying very hard to lay a foundation for their relationships with my kids. They are the missing links to Peter's past. My kids have their Aunts and Papou to share stories of Peter when they were kids. They have me to share my stories from age 25 until his death. What's missing are his High School years and soon after. Those are the years when you break away from siblings and do things with your friends. I know they have a ton of stories about Peter, I heard some, but can't remember enough to share them with my kids. I was hoping when my kids got older they would have a friendship already there with Peter's friends, so they could talk about Peter for hours if they wanted to. I guess I'm hoping for a perfect little world, and that's not going to happen. It makes me sad. I know if the tables were turned, Peter would have been standing out in the rain for his friend. I wish his friends felt the same...oh well, on we go.

We have been watching my furry niece Fiona, she really likes the pool. She wasn't here for 10 minutes and she was already taking a dip! My father-in-law was here one day when she got into the pool, he didn't like it. He asked me, "Are you going to let out the water so you can change it?" Oh my goodness...ka-ching! I told him, "No, that's what the chlorine is for!" Can you imagine if I changed the water every time!?!! Toby has enjoyed having his cousin here to play. They have pushed us over, stepped on us, and run into us while playing, but they keep going. I have enjoyed having someone to cuddle with at night, the only problem...body heat. I have been so hot during the night, I have thrown covers off of me, I never do that. We'll miss her when she goes home.

Rick and Anne Marie...Fiona is always welcome here, she has received a lot of love from the kids. She will probably need a bath, with the pool water and all of Toby's slobber on her!

Until next time-
Take Care,
Sue

Devices!?!!

I took the kids for their dental check ups the other day, yep, all six. One out of six had a cavity, those are pretty good odds! I was also told Katie and Grace both need devices put in their mouths to stop them from sucking their thumbs. Devices, what the heck!?!! How come when I was a kid we didn't need devices, you either stopped, or you didn't. Our COBRA expires on Monday, yes, it has already been three years since Peter passed away, Saturday to be exact. Having to deal with the cost of these devices has become a headache. After speaking with Ted's orthodontist, I have decided to hold off on these so called devices for now. I am going to take Katie in to see the orthodontist for an evaluation (Grace is too young), along with Robbie, it's free, why not! This way I can budget for braces down the road. I think Robbie will need them, his teeth are a bit crooked. I was told by the dentist Katie and Grace will definitely need them. My question is, why pay $1000.00 per child now for devices, when they are going to need braces anyway? I have noticed, with age, Katie does not suck her thumb as often as she used to. We have all told them both to stop when we see them doing it, but at night when they are sleeping is another story. I am now trying another trick, spraying their thumbs with perfume, the jury is still out on that one.

Yesterday was my birthday, we spent it at the cemetery and then for lunch at my sister-in-law's restaurant, The Liberty. They have such great food, I can honestly say I have never had a bad meal there. If you are ever in Libertyville, IL, their place is located on Milwaukee Ave., also known as Rt. 21. They put a candle in a piece of cheesecake and sang me Happy Birthday, the kids loved it. We went to the cemetery to clean up the flowers so they look nice for Saturday. I am having a memorial service for Peter. I don't think we have been there since I planted them in June, it has been a busy summer. To my pleasant surprise, my sister-in-law, Maria, had already been there and spruced them up for me. I decided to water them so I went to the faucet to turn on the hose. Noah followed me, and while he was waiting for the water to turn on, he was stung by a wasp. There was a nest inside some artificial flowers very near to the water, and he got too close. He has never been stung so I didn't know what to expect. We weren't planning on going to the restaurant, but with this happening, I felt we should go hang out there just in case he had a reaction. This way we were close to a hospital instead of on the highway. I am happy to say nothing happened, and he forgot all about it once we were inside and ordering all kinds of yummy food.

The days are getting harder as the week goes on, so many memories. Keep us in your prayers.

Until next time-
Take Care,
Sue

Three Weeks Left

A couple of weeks ago Toby had surgery (snip,snip), I had to take him and get his incision looked at yesterday. I found out from the vet that we have a scaredy cat for a dog, this explains why he barks at everyone when they come into the house. Toby was hiding under my chair when the vet came into the room. He took Toby's leash and gently pulled him out from under there, sat on the floor and let Toby sniff his hand before he touched him under his chin. According to the vet, if he would have stayed standing and moved his hand over Toby's head in order to pet him on top of it, we might have had a different outcome. Toby would have felt threatened and would have either started barking at him, or tried biting. I'm sad Toby feels this way, but it's good to know, now we can help.

Katie had her birthday party over the week-end, it's always so nice to have family around. She wanted money so she could save up for a Nintendo DS, she has wanted one for a long time. She was about $30.00 short, I was debating on whether to kick in the rest. Noah and I went to the store Tuesday morning, while I was there I decided to check out the price so I knew the exact amount she needed to buy it. To my surprise, it was on sale, "They are NEVER on sale," said the clerk this time last year. I bought it, I didn't tell Katie until we were at another store picking out a game for it. She was so excited, I couldn't drive fast enough home. I should have opened it and charged it while she was at Greek Bible camp, because she had to wait about 3 hours. That was the longest 3 hours!

Noah had a cardiologist appointment, the doctor still heard a heart murmur at his last check-up. He has had it since he was a baby, all of my kids have had a murmur at some point. We agreed to have it checked out if it was still there this visit. It is nothing to be concerned about, it is an innocent murmur. If it is still there next year, I am to bring him back to the cardiologist. I'm glad I went, I feel much better, my mind started to wander about that murmur.

Helen's last day of summer school was today, she's not going to be a happy camper come Monday and there is no bus coming to get her. I keep telling her she is done with summer school and all she says to me is, "Why?" I told her now she will have more time to swim in the pool. Next week will be the first week we can all sleep in since school let out the beginning of June. It was either Bible camp or summer school getting us up early, I guess now this is our "official" summer break. I think the kids have about 3 weeks left before school starts again, yeah! I definitely enjoy the routine, I think I get more sleep when they are in school...I'm exhausted!

Until next time-
Take Care,
Sue

Bean Boozled

GO FISH, Greek Orthodox Fun In Summer Heat, that's what we do every Friday. We meet up with other families, last week we met at a park, it was so chilly we decided to drive to the Jelly Belly factory, which was nearby. We went on the tour, taste tested jelly beans, and bought some belly flops. Everyone had a good time. Once in the car, the kids couldn't wait to open their free samples. The car started smelling so good, I decided to open the package of jelly beans I bought. I got them because they were only 50 cents, the package read, "Bean Boozled", I had no idea of the flavors. I'm driving along, the kids are pumped up from our little field trip. I pop a jelly bean in my mouth, in my mind I'm trying to figure out why this bag is named the way it is. I'm eating a jelly bean that tastes like...mint. I try another one to see what flavor it is, maybe shed some light on the name...YUCK!! What the heck did I just eat, let me try another one, I'm still trying to figure out how they came up with this name. This one is just as bad if not worse than the other one I just ate. I tell the kids, "I bet these are those Harry Potter jelly beans, and they named it differently for some reason." I must be a glutton for punishment because, yes, I try another one. In my defense...it was a black one , and there could not possibly be any other kind of flavor for a black jelly bean other than licorice, my favorite. OMG, OMG, OMG...it was sooooo nasty, for the life of me, I could not figure out what I just ate, and yes, I did swallow it! The kids were laughing so hard, I'm lucky I didn't crash the car. When we got home we went on the computer and looked on Jelly Belly's website. Guess what we found out...Bean Boozled is a game they have come up with. The bag contains jelly beans that are the real deal, and jelly beans that are not. You are supposed to pass them out and see if you have real or fake, hence the name, Bean Boozled. The ones I ate in the car were all fake! I ate, toothpaste, vomit, boogers, and...wait for it, wait for it...skunk spray!!! When I saw skunk spray, a light bulb went off in my head, yes, that is EXACTLY what it tasted like, and I swallowed it! I must have drank a gallon of ice tea that night, I think I can still taste it. I am very relieved this incident has not scarred me from eating black jelly beans, we have a ton of them in our bag of belly flops.

Katie turned 7 on Tuesday, she played her last softball game that night. She was the last girl to bat for the season, thank goodness she made it to base.(there was a 7 run rule, Katie hit run #7 in) We went to the toy store after so she could pick out her present, and then out for ice cream. I had made cupcakes for the team, so we already had our cake. She told me she had the best day ever.

Helen came with me yesterday to run a couple of errands and then do grocery shopping, we had a nice time. She was such a big help, she didn't act like she usually does when we go out. She carried our purchases to the counter, put them down and said, "Hi" to the check out person. She wasn't all over the place trying to get at everything. When we went to the store, she helped put things in the cart, and even push. After awhile she did start acting up a bit, but she had lasted a long time. I really enjoyed that one on one time with her, and I think she felt the same. She really enjoyed the ride home, radio blasting(her request), and the wind blowing in her hair. She had the biggest smile on her face, it doesn't get any better than that.

Until next time-
Take Care,
Sue

Questions About Jeans for Moms of Girls

We are very excited about our first production batch of jeans and launching the It'll Fit'll web site. It's all right around the corner....the web site will go live no later than October and the jeans production will be as soon as all of the details come together (for instance, the 4 inch zippers are challenging to locate!) Production will likely be next month.

Speaking of jeans details - that's the point of this post. Can the mothers of girls give me some perspective on a couple of questions about jeans details, please?

1 - We're thinking of using pink thread as the contrast thread on the girls jeans. You know that gold/orange contrast thread on jeans? Well, I thought using pink on the girls jeans would be cute and fun. Now I wonder if that's too specific and limiting and un-jeans-like. Moms, please let me know what you'd prefer.

2 - The back pockets - should they be decorated or not? Is plain, no stitching except around the pocket border (to attach it to the pant leg) too plain? Is a couple of horizontal lines of contrast stitching classic, perfect? If fancy stitching is preferred, what kind of design/stitching (examples of brand names would be great) do you like? In the future, would you like a line of jeans with a variety of pocket choices - some very ornately embroidered pocket fabric through very simple?

Those are two questions that I can't stop thinking about right now and any thoughts and comments that you can share would be a HUGE help to us. Please, please feel free to share any additional insights that you have about jeans or any other clothing item that you'd like to have available.

We're nearing the point that all that our dream is becoming reality, and we want to give you exactly what you want. So, please let us know what that is.

Best,
Sherry.

Memories

Once you have lost someone dear to you, every time you hear of another passing, it brings back the memories. The recent losses in Hollywood have brought back many memories and feelings to me, even the kids. Michael Jackson especially, they have seen the many pictures of his kids, and the news coverage. Grace told me, "I really miss Michael Jackson." I said, "You didn't even know who he was", she said, "I know, but I still miss him for his kids." After Katie had seen his daughter at the memorial service, she told me she missed daddy a lot. The way I see them now is the way they were after Peter passed away. I tried to monitor what they saw on TV and on the computer, but it was everywhere. I have noticed the amount of coverage has slowed down quite a bit. I have also seen my kids perk up, and not mention their dad as often. Don't get me wrong, we talk about Peter, but in a happy way, not a sad way. I tell them funny stories about their dad, or if one of them does something that reminds me of him, I tell them, "You are just like your dad", it makes them smile. Kids bounce back so much quicker than adults.

Until next time-
Take Care,
Sue

Happy Fourth of July

Helen with her art project from school. She was very proud when we hung it up.

Happy Fourth of July, from the It'll Fit'll family, to yours!!

Until next time-

Take Care,

Sue

Stinky Monday

I hope all you dad's and grandpa's had a good day on Sunday. I cut the grass in the morning and then we went to the cemetery after lunch. I wasn't planning on making the trip, but when I told Robbie and Ted we weren't going to go, they asked if we could. I don't mind going to the cemetery, it gives me peace. I always feel like I am making the kids go, I want them to want to go. I knew in my heart that Peter wouldn't have cared either way, he probably would have wanted us to stay home, we would have saved gas. When we got home, we set up the pool that I bought three summers ago. I always had a bad feeling in my gut whenever the kids asked when we were going to put it up. I thought Helen might pick Noah up and throw him in the pool, it was the time that she was always picking him up. Now that they are older, and she doesn't pick him up anymore, I feel more at ease. It was a very good investment, they have been in that pool so much this week. Helen has turned into a fish! On Monday, they went in for the first time, I couldn't get her out! I did get her out at dinnertime, but then she went right back in. It was 8:00pm by the time she finally came out. She absolutely loves that pool. My furry niece, Fiona, liked it too. We were dog sitting this week-end, and I completely forgot how much she enjoys pools. While it was filling up, she jumped in and started biting at the water going in a circle. She has her own pool at home and does the same thing. The kids got such a kick out of it, they wanted Toby to go in too. I told them it wasn't such a good idea, his fingernails could puncture the pool. Toby hasn't been too interested in it anyway, probably because anytime he goes near it, they splash him.

The week didn't start out so good, Helen started summer school on Monday. It was such a hectic week-end, that I completely forgot the bus driver never called to tell me what time they were going to pick up Helen. I called the bus company Monday morning and was told they didn't have Helen scheduled for a bus until June 29th, a full week after school started. I couldn't understand how that happened when the bus company called me the previous week to make sure all of her information was correct. I was told to call the transportation department, it was them that put in the order. Of course when I called, I got a recording, so I left a not so pleasant message. I was so mad. I just told them they should have told me Helen didn't have bus service the first week of school, so I could plan accordingly. Along with the letter telling me what school she was placed at, and that she would receive bus service, they should have included the fact that she wouldn't start the bus until the second week of school. It still irritates me. I did speak with someone in the special education department and complained to them about the situation. I said, "We are supposed to be working as a team, making sure all of Helen's needs are met. To leave out such important information about Helen's transportation to her mother, is unacceptable. Who dropped the ball?" She informed me that they were so back logged, I was lucky it was just the first week of school. To that I said, "If you are so back logged, why did I receive a letter stating Helen would receive bus service from the start of school until the end? That is not a good enough excuse." I then went on to tell her how disappointed I was with the school system, and I really hoped this mistake would never happen again. After that, I politely said good-bye. It was a very frustrating morning. The other kids started Bible Camp that morning too. Noah wanted nothing to do with it, even with a couple of his friends there. He ended up coming with me, there went my hour and twenty minutes to myself. Guess what else happened, my air conditioning went out on my car. I took it to the mechanic, it will cost an arm and a leg to get it fixed. We are going to try and make it without, it hasn't been easy, it has been hot and humid around here lately. It's always something, isn't it!?!!

I know Sherry is the one to write about the business side of things, but I'm so excited, I couldn't help but mention this. Helen was fitted on Saturday with our first pair of jeans...Hallelujah!! I can't begin to describe the feeling I had when she put them on and they fit. To see her put them on and not have two feet of pant leg to pull up, is indescribable. She was also fitted with the bodysuit, it looked so nice on her. So all you patient people out there...soon!

Until next time-
Take Care,
Sue

A Long Summer Ahead

This is going to be a very long summer...On Monday I stained the swing set, it took me all day. It was also Helen's last day of school. I took a break when it was time to watch for her bus. Right after she came home, my friend stopped by to tell me she will be teaching at the kid's school next year. Her youngest is in school with Noah, and our boys are in Cub Scouts together. While we were visiting in the front, Helen was a busy beaver in the back. I had placed the stain and paintbrush off to the side, thinking I would be back after Helen came home. The other kids knew not to touch it, a few of them had already gotten yelled at when they grabbed it during the day. When I was done visiting with my friend, I headed to the backyard to continue staining. I was met by Helen who was covered from head to toe with brown stain. She thought she would help by staining the fence, not just the privacy fence, but our chain link fence(dog run) too! Thank goodness it is in the corner of the yard so it's not so noticeable. I was so mad, especially when I went to finish the swing set and couldn't because I ran out of stain. I had to put that project on hold for a few days, until I could get more stain. I am proud to say, I finished the job today, and it looks awesome! Helen was pretty easy to clean up, and I was surprised to see that the stain came out of her clothes.

Katie and Grace did a great job at Greek Fest this past week-end, I got teary-eyed while watching them. There was a very big crowd watching them, I was afraid Katie would get overwhelmed, but she didn't. I think the roar of the crowd made her smile even more, and Grace was all smiles throughout the dance. The kids and I had a great time there on Sunday, even though they had run out of Dolmades(stuffed grape leaves) by the time we went to get some. They did have Loukoumades(honey puffs), thank goodness, the kids love them.

Toby ate Katie's glasses...again! I was so mad, I had to take some time to myself in my bedroom, and lock the door. I can't begin to tell you how many times I have told Katie to put her glasses up high so Toby couldn't get them. She placed them on the corner of her dresser, right next to Helen's bed. Toby hopped up on the bed, grabbed the glasses, and had a feast. We went and ordered her a new pair today, I told her it was coming out of her bank account. If this past week is any indication of how this summer is going to be, maybe I should stock up on beer!! Just Kidding!

Until next time-
Take Care,
Sue

Naughty Helen

Oh my goodness, I am soooo not used to having the kids around all day long. As you can see, I had a hard time getting on the computer today. Every time I sat down to get started writing, someone needed something, or, they were nonstop asking when I would be done. I couldn't concentrate, so I gave up and decided to wait until they were in bed. Aaahhh, quiet time!

I met with Helen's teachers last week for a follow up to her IEP from back in February. I don't know if you remember, but they were talking about changing her program which would mean changing schools. They decided not to move her, the program she would have been going into would have done more harm than good. Her teacher told me she is not going to give up on Helen, she is invested. It is my understanding that the program they were talking about putting her in, was the one where they focus on self help skills, that's it. I guess there are behavior issues in that type of class, and her teacher was afraid Helen would pick up on it, and do her more harm than good. Like her teacher said, Helen has the potential, she just needs to start cooperating a little more. The past two days Helen has been acting up at school, so she has gotten sad faces on her chart. I wouldn't know this from seeing her chart because somehow it gets lost before it reaches home. I called her teacher today because of the way she was acting when she got off the bus. She wouldn't come in, she stood out on the sidewalk with her thumb in her mouth (a sign that she knows she did something wrong). It was then that I learned of the naughty behavior Helen has been displaying at school. Do you remember what happens when Helen doesn't get all smiley faces on her chart? Helen does, that's why she "loses" her chart before she gets home. She knows she will not get her favorite snack of pretzels and marshmallows if she has one sad face. She was extremely naughty today, which is why she had her thumb in her mouth and wouldn't come in until she could no longer see me waiting at the door. When she finally got to the door, I asked her how school went, she told me, "No Mommy!" I feel bad she was so naughty, but glad to see she understands her behavior was unacceptable. I am hoping with a good night's sleep she will be better behaved tomorrow at school. I think that had something to do with it. The other kids are done with school so they get to stay up. When I told her it was time for bed because she had school in the morning, she fought in every way possible. I should have been more firm with her, it's hard at night, my energy level is very low. I was able to get her to bed at a decent time tonight, so I'm keeping my fingers crossed for tomorrow.

Katie and Grace are dancing at Greek Fest this week-end, I'm working the beer tent on Saturday night. Maybe I'll meet someone...or, maybe not.

Until next time-
Take Care,
Sue

Stickers

I don't say this very often, but, I don't know what to do with myself this morning. It's Wednesday, I'm supposed to be helping with hot lunch at the school, at least that's what my internal clock is telling me. The last hot lunch for the school year was last week and I already miss it. I thought I would fill the void and write my blog, next week it may be a different story.

Yesterday we went to Children's for Katie's follow up appointment with the surgeon. We had to wait a long time for the doctor. I had to have the nurse call the cardiac clinic because Helen had an appointment scheduled, and we were late. When I spoke with the scheduling department they assured me there was enough time for us to get to Helen's appointment on time, I should have known better. Once the doctor came in to see Katie, she felt her tummy, asked how many lollipops, and we were out of there. All that waiting for less than a minute of her time! Our next stop was Helen's appointment, she was there to get hooked up to a Holter monitor. For those of you who have been fortunate enough to have no idea what that is, it monitors her heart rate for 24 hours. It's like having an EKG for a day. When the 24 hours are up, I take off the monitor, put it in a Federal Express envelope, and they will come and pick it up at my house. I don't have to make another trip just to drop it off, how awesome is that!?!! After dinner the kids went outside to play for awhile. I checked Helen's stickers(that's what she calls them) when she came inside. They were in the right pattern, but in the wrong spot. It looked like they had slid down from her chest to her tummy, but that is not possible. If any of you have ever had an EKG, then you know how strong the stickers are, they don't move. I think Helen did some rearranging! I put them all back where they belonged and got her ready for bed. She kept insisting on taking off her stickers. The last thing I heard her say last night...stickers! When she woke up this morning I checked them again, all but one had fallen off during the night. They were all crumpled, I had to replace them with new ones. She was not a happy camper, in fact, the last thing I heard her say on the way to the school bus...stickers!

Until next time-
Take Care,
Sue

Short Blog

I bet some of you are a bit confused, my last two blogs went missing. We were the unfortunate recipients of a very crude troll. For those of you who don't know what that is, it's someone who infiltrates and leaves very mean and hurtful comments. That is the only attention I'm going to give it, since that's all it was looking for anyway. Now, back to business...

I hope everyone enjoyed the long holiday week-end, and had a nice Memorial Day. We didn't do anything special, just hung out at home. Noah turned four yesterday, he picked out a light saber and a Clone Trooper helmet. I think the helmet is bigger than him! I am having his party this week-end, so I have been trying to get the house in order. I thought things would start to slow down since it's the end of the school year, but it seems to have sped up. I have had no time at all to clean my house.

Katie started softball, her first game is next week. I am lucky that she plays at a field where there is a playground directly across from it. While Katie is playing softball, the other kids can stay busy by playing at the playground.

Grace graduates from preschool tomorrow, she is looking forward to being a Kindergartner. That's one more thing on my list of things to do, make something for her teachers. I don't ever remember giving my teachers an end of the year gift. I appreciate all the teachers have done for my kids, but I really can't afford more gifts. I hope they enjoy homemade banana bread, because that's what I'm making. Since I'm talking about it, I might as well get baking.

Sorry for the short blog, I didn't want to spend a lot of time on it, in case it needs to disappear.

Until next time-
Take Care,
Sue




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We're Stars

Grace, Noah, and I were on the Milwaukee news last night! Our city had a special election yesterday for a new mayor, we went and voted. Noah ran in ahead of Grace and I, as soon as we walked in I saw a TV camera pointing right at him. While we walked, it followed us. When we got to the table and I gave the people my name, I mentioned the camera. I was told, "That's what happens when you walk in with such cute kids." I just laughed, thinking it was the local station. I received my ballot and headed to the nearest booth to vote, as the camera followed our every move. When I went to put my ballot into the machine, I got a little nervous and missed the slot, not once, but twice. You know what I was thinking? Is that camera reading who I voted for!?!! (Yes, I am sooo much like my mom!) We got our stickers and headed out the door. I was getting the kids in the car when this very nicely dressed woman got my attention. As she walked closer I recognized her as one of the morning anchors for the early morning news. Ding, ding, ding...OMG!!! The camera that had followed our every move was for ABC in Milwaukee. She approached me and said, "I saw this young woman with two kids and so I had to talk to you." She then started asking me questions about the election, I was glad when it was over. I told her to feel free not use me, I had no make-up on, Grace and Noah were running around a car, and I thought I sounded stupid. It was a lot harder than I thought! I then told her that I watched her every morning while getting ready to take the kids to school. It was a very pleasant conversation, that part I enjoyed. At 6:00pm, we were on the news! She did a very nice job at putting the segment together, I don't think I sounded stupid, she used the best part. She had interviewed other people, and even took a walk in our downtown, talking about how the unemployment rate has hit us hard. We were on at the end, she talked about how I'm a single mom with six kids, trying to make a fresh start. So I'm using my vote to voice my opinion, as she is saying that, they show me putting my ballot in the machine (remember, it took three tries!). I had a few people tell me today they saw me on TV. One of the lunch mom's said jokingly, "So I hear your yesterday's news!" HA

I am writing this on Wednesday night because very early tomorrow morning I am taking Katie for her surgery. Please keep us in your prayers.

Until next time-
Take Care,
Sue

UPDATE: Katie's surgery went well, it took three stitches to close the hole, six knots in every stitch. She is doing awesome...thank you for your prayers.






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Rain, Rain, Go Away!

We never made it to see Katie's artwork on Sunday, we were going to go when I finished in the kitchen. I was in the middle of cleaning out the refrigerator when Ted told me Noah was trying to clean up water downstairs with paper. I sent Katie and Grace down there to clean it up because I thought it came from them playing with the Barbie cruise ship. I didn't hear anything from them in awhile so I checked in with them. They came upstairs holding a very wet towel. I asked them how much water they used. They told me they didn't play with any water...uh-oh. I went downstairs to see what was going on, I found two puddles of water(I thought Toby was to blame at first!). When I opened the door to the laundry room...HELLO...water everywhere. My heart sank, I have never had water in the basement. I started to move the boxes of my mom's things out of harm's way, and even had to unpack some of it in order to save it. I couldn't figure out what happened, my sump pump is fairly new. I tried checking it, but what do I know about things like that, nothing. I called my brother John and got his voicemail. Thinking he was out of state I called Jerry, Robbie's friend's dad. He has been such a life saver, he was the one who fixed my car when the fuel pump went out on me, not to mention other things. Jerry came right over and took a look at it, he said it was still working...whew! While he was here, John showed up carrying an extra motor, so I had two life savers that day. They both thought the sump pump got overwhelmed by so much rain in so little time. I am finding out that I wasn't the only one that happened to. John left the motor here, just in case. When all was said and done, the art show was over by the time I was done mopping up water. Katie didn't seem to mind, in fact, she had forgotten all about it.

Robbie is very excited about making his First Communion on Sunday. We had rehearsal last night, we are the first ones to walk in. Robbie is happy about it, me, not so much. I like to blend in, being first is not blending in. We do have front row seats, so I can't complain about that! Ted will be one of three altar servers, he feels special. Robbie also gets to take up the gifts with five other kids, he is first doing that too. They practiced their song that they sing, of course I got teary-eyed. They look so precious when singing about Jesus. They have their hands together, as if they were praying, and when they sing, "We want to see Jesus", they look up to the sky. I'm getting teary-eyed right now just thinking about it. It should be a very nice day.

I'm off to clean the house today, I wanted to work in the yard, but once again it's raining. Let's hope the water stays outside this time!

Until next time-
Take Care,
Sue



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Body Of Christ...Amen

This week is back to normal and everyone is feeling good. On Tuesday I went to the school and made communion hosts with Robbie's class. Wheat flour and water, that's all it takes. About 30 years ago, while doing construction on the school and church, someone found a communion press in the basement. The stamping on it dates back to the 1880's, it is very cool. Father placed it on top of the stove, when it was hot enough, he placed a small amount in the center, then he squeezed. It oozed out, sometimes too much, the kids loved it. When it was done, he put it between damp cloths and went on to the next one. When he was done making all of them, he then cut out a large circle with a knife, this would be his. They had little round cutters with tall handles to cut out the rest, these are for us. The cutters were also from the 1880's. The hosts we made will be the ones we receive at the First Communion Mass. We were able to take a taste of the left over, it tasted much better than what we usually receive. I guess homemade does taste best, even with communion hosts!

The side mirror on Helen's bus was hit by a parent's van the other day. They couldn't move until the police went and took a report, and the bus company could fix the mirror. As soon as Helen gets dropped off, we leave to pick the others up from school. I waited an extra 10 minutes until I called the bus company, they told me what was going on. I left to pick up the kids, they were waiting for me against the fence. I figured I might as well swing by Helen's school and see if I could take her off the bus. I thought she would be very bored, and therefore, fidgety. I expected to see the mirror dangling on the side of the bus. It wasn't, it looked like it hadn't even moved, but it was cracked. I told her bus driver I was there to take Helen off her hands, I was sure she would be bored. Helen was the only one on the bus that was listening, so she was sorry to see her go. As we were pulling away, I saw someone from the bus company fixing the mirror. If we hadn't picked her up, she probably would have been at least an hour late getting home.

We have somewhat of a busy week-end, Katie and Grace have Greek dance class on Friday. Robbie has a den meeting on Saturday, and on Sunday we are going to the Catholic High School for the art show. Katie will have a picture on display, she is very excited. Ted had his self portrait displayed there a few years ago, he was very proud.

Until next time-
Take Care,
Sue



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Spring Break '09

Oh my goodness...I can't believe it's Thursday afternoon already! The kids are off from school for Spring Break, that's why I haven't written this blog yet. I finally had to kick one of them off, every time I saw the computer available I was in the middle of something. When I was done with what I was doing I would come to the computer only to find it occupied once again. The week didn't start off so great, we have been fighting an intestinal bug. While at church on Easter morning, Noah was the first to share with everyone what he had eaten that morning (the cry room was packed!). The kids will be the first to tell you that it didn't smell so pretty in there, in fact, an older couple left the room and went to the other side. I got him cleaned up just in time for Communion, and then we left. He wasn't sick for the rest of the day. Ted on the other hand wasn't feeling the greatest. As soon as we got home from my brother's house, he got sick. Robbie got sick during the night, but both were fine the next day. I was the next in line to catch whatever was going around. My bug decided it wanted to be different, and came out in another way. I spent most of the day on Monday and Tuesday trying to recover. We have gone two nights without anyone getting sick, let's hope we're done(I'm knocking on wood!).

Tuesday Katie had an appointment with a surgeon about her hernia. She will be having surgery at Children's in Milwaukee on May 7th. Children get hernias when the muscle around the intestine doesn't close all the way while they are developing in the uterus. It is only when the intestine pokes through that the hernia is discovered. They will be stitching up the hole instead of using mesh. Because she is still growing, the mesh would only tear, and therefore, she would need another surgery. Robbie also had an appointment, the dermatologist wanted to check the incision. They put more steri-strips on to give it more support. He has to stay out of gym for two more weeks, and also no rough housing. The biopsy results came back...NEGATIVE!(Yeah!)

Helen has been blasting Christmas music this week. If it weren't for the nice weather we have been having, I would have thought they were on Christmas break.

Until next time-
Take Care,
Sue

PS- To all of you who are Orthodox...Happy Easter.




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