Boys Will Be Boys

2012 has been an adjustment year for us. In April, I returned back to work, after staying home for 10 years. The kids spent their first summer with a sitter, whom I'm pretty sure they thought was a whole lot more fun than mom, and dad has gotten a better look at what goes on "behind the scenes" at school and home.

It has been a fun year, I have enjoyed working and Jack has been very supportive. Jack' s back has given us no trouble this year and he has been able to participate in many of the kids activities. Although he was not coaching soccer, he was able to practice with the kids at the park and help them develop new skills.

Frances was blessed enough to be chosen to play in the AYSO Turkey Tournament and she loved it! Emily and Jackson practiced Muay Tai for a few months and loved it, Emily excelled at it and Jackson developed good form which helped him in the upcoming soccer season. Mom had an interesting but fun time learning the ropes as a new referee. 

Overall our family is healthy and happy. The kids are growing older and collecting new friends each school year, all the while becoming more independent.

Our usual tomboy Emily has been experimenting with girlier things although she will not admit it. One day the kids were all cleaning out their toy bins and Frances decided to throw out a makeup kit she had that she did not use. I knew Emily had been playing with it but the next morning I was awakened with this image in my face and Emily saying "Look mommy, I look like a barbie!".

Saying goodbye to summer with the annual block party.

I was browsing through my videos the other day and came upon this. It's funny to see how some things really don't change.

One for Auntie Meg..

BMX Fun!

If your family is like mine than you understand how difficult it is to find a sport that all children enjoy doing. Aside from Soccer, which is one sport we found earlier this (school) year that all three of my kiddos enjoyed playing, we have discovered BMX riding.

Lately, my husband has been taking them to BMX riding clinics. Now although, those of you who know me well, know that I pride myself in having a hubby that will take the kids and give me my peace on Saturday mornings to either catch up on my sleep or the many chores around the house. This Saturday however, my youngest daughter asked if I would go and watch them ride.

It turned out to be such a great day, it was so much fun to watch my little munchkins make it up those steep hills. The look of concentration on their faces and satisfaction when they made it to the end. Not only did I find it fun, I almost wanted to grab a bike myself! Although I have to say that that starting gate does scare me just a little bit.

After the bike ride, we enjoyed a nice hike in the Cleveland National Forest. When we got home ofcourse I was ready for a nap but those munchkins were only ready for round two of bike rides!

Locks of Love

My little "Gloria Trevi" who has always had long straight hair has gone short! She donated 10 inches to Locks of Love this morning. Our stylist did such a great job, she loves it!