Our Princess Diaries

Sisterly Love?

2012-02-09T14:39:00.003-05:00

"Give her back that toy- she was playing with it."

"Don't lay on her."

"Get your blanket off her face."

"Do NOT pick her up."

"Please don't feed her that."

"Don't put your feet in her face."

"Don't yell in her face."

Repeat these phrases 10-15 times in any order and that pretty much sums up my day. It's a good thing Violet is learning quickly- she's gonna need the extra defense. As of this morning she can pull herself up to a standing position while holding on to something. In no time she'll be able to run away from her sister's abuse/smothering love.

Not Looking Forward to the Teenage Years

2012-02-07T10:42:00.002-05:00

Last night for Family Home Evening, with the Super Bowl on the mind, Kaylon gave a lesson about sportsmanship- about how to be a good winner and a good loser. So we were roll playing some situations and how we should and shouldn't act. Moira had been on a bit of a hyper jag for the past hour, and she was very excited to take her turn. So Kaylon pretended to have just lost a game to her, and we asked her how what she should say to daddy to be a good winner. In a sugary sweet voice through an equally sweet smile she said, "You go poop in your panties."

Life will never be dull with Moira around.

Let Her Eat Cake!

2012-01-30T22:00:00.001-05:00

Happy 3rd Birthday to my Moira! Here's to hoping that you had the terrible two's and that three will be better than two! (I wish I were kidding, but these last 6 months have been quite difficult for us both.)

This birthday's focus was on CAKE.Not presents, or balloons, or attention. Cake- with pink and purple flowers. Lucky for her, Pop came to visit in the morning so we had cake after lunch to include him. Pink cake with purple icing, and pink and purple flowers. She happily blew out her candles and then ate the icing off her cake. Kaylon and I wonder if we just shouldn't hand her a tub of icing next year...

While her stubborn streak and somewhat defiant nature are a daily challenge, her positive characteristics outweigh the "challenging" ones. She is smart, passionate, curious, loving, funny- above all funny. We have to constantly keep ourselves from laughing when she's supposed to be in trouble. I love big, beautiful eyes, that have not quite settled on a color (right now they are a bluish green). I love how simply heartbreaking she looks when she's disappointed or hurt- I know that sounds cruel, but you should just see her shoulders slump and her big eyes drop- I promise you, you'd want to give her the world to make it better. (This picture is more angry than sad, but it gives you an idea...)And as much as it frustrates me now, I love to imagine the strong woman she will be some day because of her "challenging" traits- she will not be someone to mess with!
So Happy Birthday Moira. Mommy loves you!

Tooth Fairy

2012-01-27T13:31:00.002-05:00

The tooth fairy has been a bit flighty at our house. So flighty that she has never come on the night that Grace lost her tooth. Yeah, I'm pretty sure she forgot, although maybe it's true what we told Grace- that she was just so busy that she didn't get there in time. Luckily Grace was understanding and she was prepared 2 nights ago to awake to a tooth instead of money in the morning (again). But the tooth fairy must be doing better since she left Grace a gold dollar on the same night that Grace lost her tooth! Or maybe she made her husband set an alarm so that she wouldn't forget. Whatever it was, I'm happy that Grace's tooth, small paper blanket, and note were retrieved on time, this time.

Passive Aggressive

2012-01-20T15:32:00.002-05:00

Moira doesn't know how to spell yet, though she does know the names of most letters. She likes to pretend that she does, though, and she often yells out or types random letters to 'spell' words. She just told me that she was going to type Violet's name into her MobiGo, which I thought was pretty sweet. Then as I walked away I heard her type the first three letters:

P...O...S

hehe

Living in a Cartoon

2012-01-18T13:20:00.000-05:00

I went to the store over the MLKJ holiday and took only Liliana with me so that we could have some one on one time. She was helping me check off items on my list at the end when we discovered that we had missed the baby food aisle. As we were heading back that way Liliana saw a parallel between our predicament and a certain cartoon character that often goes in search of things. So how could she resist belting out the song to go with it?

Come on Vamanos! Everybody let's go...
Where are we going? (clap clap clap) to get the baby food!

She sang the whole song- including the Spanish phrases. We passed several adults who smiled at her indulgently. I wonder if we had passed some kids if they would have joined in?

My Future Delinquent

2012-01-17T20:24:00.003-05:00

So I'm sure that many of you know about the traffic light behavior system in kindergarten- green being good, yellow is a warning, and red is bad. Liliana has done fairly well this year- I can count on one hand the times that she has been on yellow, and she's never gotten on red before- until today...

Going through her backpack after school I pulled out a form with an attached envelope that caught my eye. Many different ideas of what it could be flitted through my head before I comprehended exactly what it was: a notice that Liliana had been on red that day, with an attached envelope of her hair that she had cut off with scissors when she was supposed to be doing school work. To make matters even worse it was noted that she lied to teacher when asked if she was cutting her hair (her response: I don't know).

We had a good talk- I asked her why she did it, and she revealed that her best friend in the class had done it too (I won't even try to guess who came up with the idea). I was firm- grounding her from electronics for the day, but I cuddled her when it was over because I knew how sad and embarrassed she was. I told her that she needs to apologize to her teacher tomorrow for lying to her, and that she is never to cut her hair by herself again.

I'll take a picture tomorrow so I can post the damage. Still not sure if I can hide the hole or if she needs a new very short hairstyle.

Crawling!

2012-01-17T13:28:00.001-05:00

We have full fledged crawling! I was checking my email when I looked up and there she was- on her knees moving across the floor. Nothing is safe anymore- she loves being able to move around and get into whatever she wants; and I love watching her get excited about her freedom!

Potty Training #3

2012-01-04T10:58:00.002-05:00

We are on day two of potty training for Moira. I was going to do it during the Christmas break so that I could have Kaylon's help, but the whole puking/sick for half the week thing messed that up. So when the diapers ran out this week, I told Moira that there were no more and that it was time to wear panties. She gets a penny every time she goes (way cheaper than candy!). She has pushed back a little, but mostly likes the idea. At this point she doesn't get to decide- I'm done changing her diapers!

Sentimental Moments

2012-01-02T11:02:00.002-05:00

When I heard this song (from the Breaking Dawn Soundtrack) it made me think of my girls and how fundamentally they have changed my life. So I got all sappy and sat down to make a picture montage of them. They LOVED it- they laughed as they pointed to each other's baby pictures. And I got a visual display of how much I love being a mom.

Christmas Morning

2011-12-26T22:35:00.003-05:00

We had a wonderful Christmas morning. We started by placing the Christ child in the manger where the girls have been placing pieces of yarn to make it softer for the baby. They get to put a piece in every time the did an act of secret service. We really wanted the girls to get into the true meaning of Christmas and it also helped diminish some of the arguing in our home for the week before Christmas.

Moira was a bit put off that the presents were right there and she had to pose with the nativity.

And then on to presents. Grace got the biggest gift this year (box wise, which is the only thing that matters at this age)

Violet's first present of the morning.
This is what Violet did most of the morning.

The girls all ready for church. Such beauties, all of them!

For dinner I cooked a full turkey dinner with all the trimmings and we had our friends the Estrada's over. We were having a great time catching up until Liliana threw up. And then Violet. Grace followed after bedtime (course she didn't make it to the toilet, so I got to clean up Hawaiian Punch dyed turkey out of the carpet while Kaylon sat with her). Kaylon came next and I finally blew at 2am. Moira only escaped because she had the pukes Wednesday night. So we have had the laziest day after Christmas ever- basically we just made sure that the kids were fed, after they were able to keep food down, of course.

And now that I have thoroughly grossed everyone out- Merry Christmas to all!

Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T22:20:00.001-05:00

We were lucky enough when we moved to join the ward where our old friends the Smiths live. Both our families moved to Montgomery Village the same week 6 years ago and that year we spent Christmas Eve together. So it was fun to spend Christmas Eve with them this year along with another fun family in our ward and to see how our families have grown.

This year we did a potluck dinner, the kids acted out the nativity story, and we sang some Christmas songs. Lots of fun, friendship, and laughs. I have video but it's not loading- I'll have to try again later.

When we got home we opened certain presents from Grandma Susie (PJ's!) and exchanged presents as a family. The threat of Santa not coming until they were asleep had them running to their beds and even demanding that we do the same. Kaylon and I instead stayed up to put bows on presents and watch White Christmas together- one of our traditions. Still we got to bed at a good time- making this Christmas Eve just about perfect.

Sugar Cookies 2011

2011-12-24T22:16:00.001-05:00

We decorated and delivered a bunch of sugar cookies on Christmas Eve in McInelly fashion. Grace was very artistic, Liliana made as many as she could, and Moira liked the sprinkles- A LOT. Pop and Grandma Brandi came down and helped as well to add to the fun.

Welcome Soldier!

2011-12-12T22:08:00.003-05:00

And we have army crawling! I love this age because they LOVE doing things- they love being able to move, and find things, and go places. You can see the excitement in their eyes- and they smile all the time... course nothing is safe on the floor, and whatever you don't want them to find, they will. But it's fun! Even though she's our fourth- it's still as amazing as the first.

My New Favorite Thing to Say

2011-12-02T11:02:00.003-05:00

One of the reasons that I love the girls being in school is because I only need to take 2 girls grocery shopping with me. You'd be amazed at how easy 2 girls are vs 4! The funny thing is that I still get the looks of amazement and comments about how my hands are full (remember this?). My new response to them?

This is only half. :) hehe.

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas!

2011-12-01T22:08:00.000-05:00

Hehe... That in one well-loved branch!

It's All About the Timing

2011-11-26T13:51:00.000-05:00

My favorite moment of our trip to New York had nothing really to do with the city itself. At one point as we were filing down the stairs to the train platform at Penn Station with the many other travelers, we had stopped moving as we waited for the front of the line to move out. Above the din of the black Friday bustle I heard Liliana's voice start to sing, "It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas..."

First of all- what a perfect moment for that song! And second, I was so proud that she was willing to sing like that around all those people. :)

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T21:25:00.003-05:00

We spent Thanksgiving in New Jersey this year with my family. We haven't been up that way in years so it was wonderful to reconnect with Grandma, uncles, aunts, and cousins. It was great to see a new generation playing together (just as rough as we were in my time).

Since we were up that way, Kaylon talked me into a day trip into NYC. We kept in short and sweet- we rode the train in (on which my uncle was the engineer!), walked to Times Square, saw Toys R Us, ate at McDonald's, caught a cab back to Penn station, and took the train home. The girls were impressed by the buildings, but Grace said that the city was crowded. Moira somehow got the idea that it was called "Bubble City" and yelled at anyone that called it anything else.
This was an ad along the train tracks. We couldn't help but take a picture!

It had been awhile, but we felt so welcome and loved, it was like no time had passed. I guess that's why it's called family. :)

Holiday Dresses

2011-11-13T22:11:00.000-05:00

Happy Veterans Day!

2011-11-11T14:18:00.003-05:00

Thank you to all those who sacrifice all to protect our freedoms- especially to my dad, a navy veteran! Grace made a card for him last night- I thought it would be nice to put on here :)

(note the American flag pinata, hehe.)

Why Do Parents Bother Buying Toys?

2011-11-11T14:15:00.003-05:00

This is the toy she's supposed to be playing with:

This is the poster paper she found nearby and liked more (and got mad when I took it away):

The Essence of Grace

2011-11-10T15:22:00.002-05:00

Parent teacher conferences were this week and at this new school 2nd graders and older are asked to participate as well. I was not surprised to hear how well Grace is doing in school, or how much her teacher enjoys her. But I was touched to hear just how sweet my Grace truly is. Two autistic children participate in the class part of the school day. Grace had told me about "P" once and how she helped him sometimes, but her teacher informed me the extent to which she does this. Grace not only helps "P," she volunteers to do so without being asked and picks him as a partner when there is a need. She tries to understand him, even though he doesn't talk much, makes him cards, and cheers him on in his assignments. No one asked her to do this. There was no reward dangled in her face. She happily helps however she can and tries to help "P" feel included.

While every parent is proud of their kids at every age, I am realizing that the pride is more poignant as they get older and make real decisions that make real differences in the lives of others. I had tears in my eyes as Grace's teacher conveyed all this information, knowing as a mother how "P"'s mother must every day hope and pray that her son will be treated well, despite his differences. I am so happy that Grace has chosen to be an answer to that prayer- to be an angel on earth.

Pop's Boat

2011-11-05T22:19:00.000-04:00

We visited Pop and Grandma Brandi's boat for the day. We had a lot of fun, even though it was chilly. We explored the boat (it always amazes me how much they fit on boats!), fished off the back, and pretended to be captain. Can't wait to take it out when it's warmer!

I'm princess of the world! (actual quote)

Happy Halloween 2011

2011-10-31T21:33:00.003-04:00

Here are my trick or treaters! They had a great time this year- I always love watching the youngest one who can talk (this year Moira) as they begin to make the connection between candy and those magic words "trick or treat"! Moira especially was very polite and grateful at each house.

Here is my 4th little lady bug. She was quite memorized by the camera!

I'm pretty proud of Liliana's costume- 5$ for the outfit on craigslist and then a few dollars for the hat at party city and she was the happiest girl around. She adores Jessie, so I was glad I could do that for her.

Moira is SwiftWind, the unicorn of She-Ra. This was a little mommy-magic on my part. She had wanted to be He-Man, but there aren't many He-Man costumes in her size. So I pulled out our old unicorn costume, bought a sword and she was some combination of SwiftWind, She-Ra, and He-Man. Whatever makes her happy.

Grace debated for a while, but finally settled on the Batterina costume. Kaylon added the blood.

Kaylon was trying to do Skeletor, but the permanent smile makes him look a lot like The Joker. He used his deep voice to scare kids on the sidewalk.

Grandma Susie's Visit

2011-10-25T17:17:00.004-04:00

Mom got to spend the last four weeks with us in between treatments. We were so glad to have so much time with her! She got be here for Violet's blessing, to see the girls in their Primary Presentation, and for lots of fun every day moments. While she was here her hair grew out so much she had to stop wearing her wig, which was exciting. We joked that she and Violet had the same length of hair. :)

Can't wait for another visit when it warms up again!

Get the Gates Up!

2011-10-25T17:10:00.003-04:00

Violet is now rolling back to belly AND belly to back. She rolled across the floor this afternoon. And so ends the time of putting her down and finding her in the same spot when you come back.

My baby is growing up. :) :(

Pumpkin Patch 2011

2011-10-22T21:53:00.001-04:00

We needed to find a new pumpkin patch this year since Summer's Farm in Frederick was just too far. Belvedere Plantation answered the call. I missed the familiarity of Summers, but Belvedere had lots of activities, and a pick your own pumpkin patch, which we really like. To top it off we had great weather! I just love days like this!

Our four flowers

The Pumpkin Train

Pony Rides!

Grace's dream job (Pumpkin Princess)

Face Painting

Milestones

2011-10-21T20:54:00.002-04:00

Violet rolled over yesterday! From her back to her belly. We didn't see it- the whole family was in the room, talking and playing, and then I looked down and she was on her belly. She loves grabbing toys, blankets, people's hands, plates... you get the idea. And she cut her first tooth this week too! Come to think of it, maybe that's why she's putting everything in her mouth.... Liliana has told me a number of times that she doesn't want Violet to grow up. While I'm excited to see who Violet becomes, I have to agree with Liliana a bit- Violet is growing up too fast!

Violet's Blessing

2011-10-09T16:18:00.004-04:00

Violet was blessed today in church by Kaylon. With the crazy summer of giving birth, and moving, and starting new schools, we finally felt sane enough to do it. Mom flew out last weekend, so it seemed the perfect time for it. Dad and Grandma Brandi were also able to make it. Just realized I didn't get a picture of Mom and Violet. Oops. We wish we could have had more family here, especially Grandma Elyse as we blessed her namesake, but things were just crazy when she was out her (see above). But it was still a beautiful day and she was a beautiful baby in her new white dress.

Veggie Tales!

2011-09-24T22:15:00.000-04:00

The Veggie Tales characters were at a local Chick Fil-A for a promotion of a new movie. If your kids dressed up as a princess, they got to eat for free. Yes please!

While Mom is Away, the Kiddies Will Play

2011-09-15T21:42:00.000-04:00

I wanted to post some of the pictures of what Kaylon and the girls did while I was away- as you can see- they kept very busy!

A Puppet show

Carosel

Beach

Fishing

Crabbing

Feeding Ducks

They managed to get dressed for church!

Balitimore

Liliana the Kindergartner

2011-09-15T16:12:00.004-04:00

I was very worried about sending Liliana to school. She is on the younger side. Her growth is 1.5 years behind. And she is usually off in her own world. She's a lot like I was when I was little, but I have a January birthday, so I wasn't as young. We have gone back and forth the past year about whether or not to put her in, and finally decided we would try it out and make a decision based on how she does.

I am happy to say that Liliana loves school. She is excited to get on the bus in the morning and comes home happy in the afternoon. She has brought home a smiley face every day this week, meaning that she has not disrespected the rules to the point of moving her green card to yellow. She remembers songs she learns in class and sings them to us. And, the biggest improvement I've seen, is she fine motor skills- which are way behind most 5 year olds. She is now trying to color in the lines, use different colors in her pictures, attempting to draw specific things, and writing her name... although she does it in a very interesting way. Maybe she's from the Middle East?

A rainbow

This is a duck, she said.

Again, her name backwards, as well as an example of better coloring.

She has a cute song that goes with this puppet.

So far, so good. Maybe she's more like me than I knew. After all, my grandmother told my mother not to expect me to do so well in school, since I was off in my own world, as well. :)

He Man Obsession

2011-09-15T15:20:00.002-04:00

I have to laugh because as much as my girls are little princesses, they have their mom's tom boy streak as well. Who would expect a He Man post on an all girls blog?

Kaylon received a dvd several years ago with the top 10 He Man episodes and Moira saw them for the first time a couple weeks ago. She has become obsessed! She wants to watch it all the time. She "becomes" He Man when she plays and has assigned each of us our own character. Kaylon is Skeletor, I am Teela, Grace is the Sorceress, Liliana is Evil Lynn, Violet is Orko, and Yoda is Battle Cat. The other night she refused to call Kaylon 'Daddy" but instead prefaced all her conversations with his new name 'Skeletor.' (For example, "Skelotor, I need a drink!") She will point her sword at Yoda to make him Battle Cat and then call to him (unlike the real Battle Cat, ours does not listen to He Man so well). She also tells great He Man knock knock jokes: who's there? He Man. He Man who? By the power of Grayskull! And then she shoots you. Or, Battle Cat who? ROOAARR!!!

The obsession has come in handy. I have used it to make her "clean up as fast as He Man" as well as eat her "He Man food." Pretty Awesome. I'll post a video when Kaylon gets home- he has it on his phone.

Job Chart

2011-09-14T16:52:00.002-04:00

We have started a job chart in our house. We (the parents) were getting tired of the girls whining every time they were asked to help out. So Kaylon came up with a great method for tracking jobs.

Each girl has a set of color-coded circles on the fridge (Grace-purple, Liliana-pink, and Moira-orange). Their chore-circles are chosen according to their age. When they do a chore they move one of the circles above the blue line. Everyone has to do at least one chore a day. If they do more than one then they get a quarter for each extra chore.

I didn't know how things would work at first- how much I would have to fight them to get them to work or how much I would have to help them, but I was pleasantly surprised. I sometimes get some kickback, but less and less as time goes on. And the awesome thing is that I don't have to do everything! Grace unloads the dishwasher, Liliana swiffer-vacs the floor, and Moira feeds Yoda. As long as I get the dishes down Liliana and Moira can set the table and Grace often collects all the small trash bags and takes them out. Makes me wish we had started it earlier. All the credit goes to Kaylon though- he did all the planning.

I almost forgot- the youngest has to put in some work as well- right now we're working on neck strength and smiling :)

Wonder What She's Learning in School...

2011-09-08T16:16:00.002-04:00

Just overheard as Liliana and Moira play with their toys:

Liliana to Moira, "Do you know what respectful means? It means being nice to people."

YES! She's listening in class!

First Day Recap

2011-09-06T16:32:00.003-04:00

Moira and I waited about 45 minutes in the rain for the bus to come. Next time we won't go out so early!

And here are the girls getting off the bus!

Grace told me that she had a great day and that the best part was lunch. I guess she and another boy made up a violent Mary Had a Little Lamb poem, that she told to Kaylon on the phone (but not me). Lovely.

I pried out of Liliana that her favorite part of the day was sleeping when her legs were tired (???) and that her next favorite was "coming home to your family." She did say she liked her teacher and made friends, and brought home a picture of her and the school bus, so, so far so good.

The Girls at Home

2011-09-06T14:59:00.002-04:00

We couldn't leave out the younger two! It won't be too long before they get on the school bus too!

School Year 2011-2012

2011-09-06T09:48:00.003-04:00

Everything I've wanted to do lately has been hinged on when the girls start school... starting at the gym, potty training Moira, going shopping more often, and generally organizing my life. Well, all my excuses are now gone: school started today. It was rainy and quite chilly this morning- I don't think it's supposed to even hit 70 today (which is a blessing since the a/c went out again last night).

Both Grace and Liliana woke up excited and got dressed quickly. I made french toast for everyone, wrote out lunch checks, did hair, packed snacks, and reminded the girls what they were buying for lunch. We took pics inside because of the rain and then walked to the bus stop.
We were only there a few minutes when the bus came around the corner. I had expected a little more time, so i gave up finding my camera in exchange for hugs from my girls. Liliana was the first one on the bus. She gave the bus driver a high five, walked to her seat, and waved and blew us kisses until she couldn't see us anymore. Grace got in line with her neighbor friends and didn't give us a second glance. I was misty eyed, but didn't cry. Still it felt like half my heart was on that bus.

I drove Kaylon to the metro, so as soon as I got home I checked the phone for messages; I guess Liliana is doing alright since there have no phone calls from the school. Now it's just me and the little girls. Guess it's time to break Moira of her TV addiction and start potty training... :)

Back to School Haircuts

2011-08-31T11:06:00.004-04:00

Now that I look at the pics up close I'm laughing at the younger twos' forced smiles. How dare I interrupt their puzzles!

2011-08-24T13:31:00.003-04:00

Happy 5th Birthday Princess Liliana!
We love you and you unique style! Thank you for being a ray of sunshine in our lives!

2 Month Old Violet

2011-08-16T10:59:00.003-04:00

Violet had her 2 month appointment this morning (with 3 shots). Nobody can say that this girl doesn't eat- 12lbs 9oz and 22 inches long! Course the problem will be in 2 months if her weight curve drops like the other girls. Time to see if our new docs will freak out or not.

New Room Arrangements

2011-08-15T11:10:00.003-04:00

Maybe we're jinxing ourselves, but Violet has been sleeping so well lately, we decided to move Moira over into her room. This has always been the plan, but I had initially thought we'd wait till around Christmas when Violet was older. We didn't know how Moira would take it- going from having 2 older sisters with her to only a baby. Would she be scared? Would she get in the baby's crib? Would she play with her toys all night? Would she even like her bed? Well, we got the answer to the last question very quickly:
In fact, she wouldn't let anyone touch HER bed and we had to convince her to get out of it to get changed into her pjs! And when Kaylon was talking to her about being in Moira's room, she quickly corrected him- "MY room."Bedtime went smoother than we could have hoped. The only thing we heard after about 10 minutes was (man this is sad) Moira calling out, "Goodnight Liliana! Goodnight Grace!" The girls didn't hear her so there wasn't a response. When we checked on them soon after that, they were all soundly asleep, not the norm in our house (typically it can take up to an hour for them to stop playing around). And when I got up at 4am to feed Violet, Moira didn't stir. She also didn't climb into the crib (yet), for which we are grateful.
Liliana's not a dull one; when she realized that Moira was leaving she asked Kaylon when (not if) Grace was moving to the grandma room. Twice. Good try my girl, but I highly doubt that you'll have your own room before you go to college!

Violet's Arizona Visit

2011-08-15T11:00:00.004-04:00

Violet and I flew to Arizona last week to introduce her to the family. Violet was an amazing flying companion- she slept both flights! We had a great time hanging out with grandmas, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Makes me really wish that Kaylon could find a job in Scottsdale!

Auntie Angela

Uncle B

Uncle Stephen

Grandma Susie (with her red wig)

my first pic with Violet since she was born

Grandma Elyse and Grandma Susie (in her blond wig)

Shane and Paytyn

Uncle Curty

(Almost) Finished Home

2011-07-31T20:51:00.005-04:00

We are loving our new place, minus some problems we had in the beginning. The house is mostly organized at this point. Enough that I no longer want to work on it every day and some clutter is finding its own territory. Oh well. I do have a newborn. For those of you who wanted to see the mostly finished product here ya go:

Our utility room storage (one of Kaylon's pet projects)

And our 5th bedroom that is now all storage
View of the rec room from the TV end

The desk is in the middle of the rec room

The far end of the rec room is the toy area

And the other far end is the TV

The foyer with our new bench storage

Our picture collage going up the stairs

The Dining Room

The living room with our first set of new couches (!!!)

Violet's Room

The Girls' Room

And our room (and new bed!)

You can compare before and afters with this post .

Smiles

2011-07-31T15:28:00.003-04:00

She's been doing this a little under 2 weeks but I finally caught it on camera. Enjoy! (I know I do!)

I Have Four Girls!

2011-07-23T23:20:00.003-04:00

And here's my proof...Only took me 6 weeks to get a picture of all four of them together! They were all looking clean and cute for the church picnic tonight, so I snatched a few minutes before we left to take a few. Check out the outtakes- the oldest threes' personalities really shine through ;)

I had offended Liliana before this one. We only got pics of her smiling in the others because I was beating myself up behind Kaylon to make her laugh.

And of course Moira has to touch her mouth...

Sisterly love is still going strong here- at least in regards to Violet. :)

One of the Reasons We Love this House:

2011-07-11T17:19:00.001-04:00

OUR YARD!!!!

Violet is One Month Old!

2011-07-11T17:04:00.002-04:00

Don't know how that happened- I guess moving can make time fly faster. She's such a good baby. She eats all day and sleeps most of the night. Her sisters are still enamored with her. She's wrapped around her daddy's little finger. And she melts my heart every time she recognizes me, and falls asleep on me because I make her feel safe. She has a little cold right now but she's doing alright. Don't you want to just pinch those cheeks?

Violet's Birth Story

2011-07-06T16:39:00.002-04:00

This is for those of you that like birth stories... if they make you sqeemish, you might want skip this post. :)

The Birth Story of Violet Elyse McInellyI had a doctor’s appointment on June 10, the day after my due date, with high hopes that I wouldn’t have to go to it. Sadly, I did. My doctor checked me and I was at a 2? And 50% effaced. I think he intentionally did a rough exam to help things along, though I wouldn’t let him strip my membranes or break my water. I cramped the rest of the day and spotted.

I woke up at midnight with contractions that I couldn’t sleep through. I went down to the basement and started tracking them online while I played computer games. After 2 hours they were 5-6 minutes apart and I needed concentration to get through them so I went upstairs to wake Kaylon up. We tried to not get excited, but started to get things ready to go. Once Kaylon saw that I was fairly serious, he go the girls up and got them in the car, while I called Kaiser to get the go ahead to go to the hospital. We dropped the girls off at the Crawfords and headed to Reston Hopsital a little before three am.

Since it was during off hours we had to check in at the ER. We registered there, my contractions coming about 4 minutes apart or so. They offered me a wheelchair, but I declined in favor of walking. We got up to labor and delivery to find out that all the rooms with tubs were in use. I was disappointed, but figured there was nothing I could do about it. We met our two nurses and showed them our approved birth plan for natural childbirth.

I got checked and I was 5 cm. They hooked me up to the monitor and got my IV going. The nurse doing it couldn’t find my vein and kept fishing for it even though I had a contraction and Kaylon asked her to stop. So began our adventure with nurses who don’t understand natural childbirth. The other nurse was in charge of asking me the million questions that could have been included in preregistration, and so would have been more accurate since I would have been able to think. She actually had the nerve to lecture us at one point because she didn’t feel like we were giving her enough of our time. She threatened that if we didn’t answer her questions now that she would have to interrupt out family time after the birth. At the time I didn’t have the frame of mind to get mad, but looking back I’m pretty ticked about it. Hello, I was in LABOR!

The doctor arrived sometime (I think an hour) after I was admitted and check me herself. I was now at a 6, 80%, and 0 station. I don’t think I was ever at a 0 station before 9 cm before, so that made me very happy. I asked if I could get out of bed, but they said that while the baby was showing no decelerations on the chart, she wasn’t having enough accelerations, so they would have to keep me on until she did. We tried flipping me on my left side, a popsicle, and eventually I started pushing my belly to wake the baby up. I hated laboring in bed and wanted to be up. I had a few double peaking contractions and some back labor that made me literally pray that I could get through this. Kaylon’s voice was very soothing though- sometimes I forgot to tell him a contraction was over because his voice was keeping me calm. I remember my hand shaking at the peak of some contractions- Kaylon thought it was me, but I had no control over it. Looking back, that should have been a clue as to how far along I was.

Finally, after nearly 3 hours the baby had enough accelerations that they allowed me to get out of bed. I told Kaylon that I wanted to get in the shower. The back labor made me want the water on my back. So into the bathroom we went. I emptied my bladder and then got in the shower to sit on the shower chair. Kaylon controlled the water for me, but I was getting cold on the side where the water wasn’t and I was shivering. Just as I was about to suggest doing something warmer something happened that has never happened to me before: my water broke all on its own.

I told Kaylon to go let the nurses know that my water had broken. After he left I realized that it was stupid to have him leave me since the contractions would only get worse now that the water was not longer there to cushion them. The next contraction came, harder just as I had suspected and then at the peak more water gushed out and to my surprise I felt the urge to push. My mind raced- could it really be time?

Kaylon returned only to have me send him back out to give them a very specific message: that at the peak of every contraction I had the urge to push. I resisted the urge to push as I waited, not wanting to push if there were any cervix left. Just as I had intended, both nurses and the doctor came in immediately. The doctor then stupidly told me that I couldn’t have the baby in the shower. No duh. Did she really think that’s what I was trying to do? Did she expect me to walk to the bed by myself in transition? Since no medical personnel were taking any steps to help me, I explained to Kaylon that he would have to half carry me to the bed, and told him to forget about the towel he was trying to wrap around me.

So Kaylon carried me naked to my bed where one of the nurses tossed me a gown that I put on as the doctor checked me. I was terrified that I would be wrong- that I would only be at a 9 or would still have a stupid lip of cervix to have to wait through, so I was so relieved when she said that I was complete. I remember thinking, “It’s almost done- I’s actually almost done!” She instructed me not to push while they broke the bed down, but I had been doing that in the shower and decided that I would do small pushes instead until they had their stuff together.

Finally I had their ok to push. I was surprised at how uncomfortable her head felt in my pelvis. I don’t know how I had forgotten that, but it really stood out to me this time. I think it took about 3 pushes to get the head to crown. They had to remind me to pull my legs back to help stretch down there, but I remember feeling like I couldn’t move my legs by myself, so I was grateful that Kaylon and one of the nurses helped me. I stopped pushing as her head emerged and then did two more small pushes for the shoulders. Suddenly, at 6:08 am, there was a baby on my belly. Kaylon asked them to let the cord stop pulsating before they cut it. I just stared in wonder at this new baby- she had seemed so abstract the 9 months since there was so much going on besides my pregnancy; but just like with the others, I felt instant love and protection flowing out me towards this defenseless child. I could no longer imagine life without her. She was mine.

They let me hold her for quite a while before they took her to weigh and measure her. I thought she looked so tiny but they kept saying how big she was. They were right- she weighed in at 8lbs 5oz, 21 inches long, apgar scores of 9 and 9. When they returned her to me all cleaned up she latched on like a pro and nursed for probably a half hour. The next day we named her Violet Elyse. After she was born I had revisited our list of names and Violet was the one that jumped out at me. Elyse is for Kaylon’s mother.

Violet is probably the most loved baby in the world with her 3 sisters doting on her constantly. We love having her in our family and are grateful for yet another blessing from Heaven.

Back!

2011-07-06T16:21:00.002-04:00

Oh internet, how I have missed you!
And the phone and TV too!

We are moved in- all but a few boxes are unpacked- and our Fios was installed today! I can blog again! Yea!

Welcome Violet Elyse!!!

2011-06-13T13:57:00.003-04:00

We are happy to announce the birth of Violet Elyse!

Our new princess was born June 11, at 6:08am after 6 hours of labor. She weighed 8lbs 5oz and was 21 inches long. Everything went very smoothly (birth story to come later). We are home now and enjoying being a family of six!

More pictures to come!

It's Official

2011-06-08T16:25:00.001-04:00

I'm done with this pregnancy. Just thought you'd want to know. Anytime now would be great.

I'll stop whining now.

Another Thing I Never Thought I'd Have To Say

2011-06-06T20:34:00.003-04:00

Moira- don't put your head in the toilet.

And no, no one put her up to it. There was no bullying involved. She saw a bowl of water and thought she should put her head in it. She came out of the bathroom, her hair dripping water all over her face, with the biggest grin. When I tried to tell her that toilets have poop and pee in them, she proceeded to point to her diaper and tell me that that's where poop and pee goes.

This child is definitely going to give us a run for our money!

Before the Craziness Really Starts...

2011-05-29T19:23:00.002-04:00

I feel like I haven't written enough about the girls funny stories lately. Things have been hectic and I have felt so overwhelmed I've dropped a lot that wasn't absolutely necessary. But now that I no longer have to clean my house for prospective renters every day and the baby is no longer breech, I feel like I can breathe again. So before the new princess takes over the spotlight, I'd like to journal a little about the first three.

Grace is doing fantastic in school. She's social, smart, and caring. She has lots of friends and she has the best stories about what happens at recess. Right now there are two competing clubs- they have the names of big cats- can't remember which ones. They try to trick each other at recess- they design elaborate plans and make notes for each other in order to carry out said plans. It's nothing sinister- no bullying or things like that. But it's hilarious how serious she takes it! She is also a great big sister. She loves to read to the girls, which is so satisfying to me... her doing something for her sisters that I did for her- it's just really sweet. She helps the girls get dressed in the morning all on her own, and has tried her hand at Moira's diapers. She loves to make up "projects" in the evening- usually assembling paper and crayons and giving the girls an idea of what to draw or a card to make. She also helps me, especially now that that it's harder to walk. She runs up and down stairs to get things for me, helps me off the couch when I'm laying down, and even gave me a back massage today! She is my little mother! She's understanding more and more and I'm scared to think that she will be seven soon... wasn't it just yesterday that I was getting ready to give birth to her?

Liliana is a dual-emotion child. She can change on the flip of a coin. Sometimes she is outgoing, talking to everyone, won't let you have a word edgewise; and then just like that, she is shy, sullen, and rude, refusing to give you the time of day. I don't know what her criteria is, but she decides if she likes you at first glance. Her feelings are tender- easily hurt; but if you're the right person, doing the right thing, it's fairly quick to repair as well. If you're not... well, expect the cold shoulder for a while. She's finally become interested in writing and can write all the letters in her name, although not usually in order. She uses mature phrases and patterns of speech that sound so funny coming out of her four and half year old mouth. And she loves to sing. And I love hearing her. And I love hearing her play. At the moment she is playing with Moira- she has a convoluted story going on and she tells Moira exactly what to say and what is happening, and Moira is just playing along. And she's in love with her daddy now- they're going to get married- in the temple- when she's older, we have been told.

Moira is a fireball. I should have known from the womb with that child. Moira gave me two bruises while in utero- one on my uterus and the other above my ribs. She is just as feisty as a two year old as she was then. Just the other day she ran out of nowhere and tackled Liliana from the side- just bowled her over! She often makes her older sisters cry by stealing toys or hitting/biting/spitting/pinching if she doesn't get her way. If she doesn't like what you're saying, she blows a raspberry at you. If she wants to "attack" you she points her finger at you and makes a "pchew" sound. But then she comes over with the biggest hugs and kisses you've ever seen- or tells you that she loves you, and she melts your heart. She is very concerned about schedules and routines and will tell you if you are out of sync. She knows what belongs to who and loves to help you get reunited with your things. If I were in a position to run up and down stairs I would potty train her, but it would probably hurt me, so she'll just have to deal with diapers a bit longer. I love to hear her talk- she understands so much and is so excited to communicate that to you. Oh- and she puts on her own sandals now, and always asks if they're on the right feet. It's so cute!

Being a mom isn't always easy- the monotony of the daily tasks is usually what gets to me. But these girls make sure that life is not boring. I laugh with them (or at them) everyday and that helps me remember why I do it, and how important it is that I am there for them. Things are going to be crazy for the next one to three months- a baby, moving, new friends and school... but as long as I have my family around me, I am always home.

Finally... An Obedient Child!

2011-05-20T16:17:00.002-04:00

I am so happy to report that baby girl number 4 has turned on her own!!!! Such a relief! Now I can go about my business for the next three weeks without worrying about that! I was so happy at the office I forgot to discuss some other things with my doctor, but we can always do that next week :)

Thank you for all the prayers, good luck, and good thoughts from everyone. I truly believe it made a difference.

Plans in Place

2011-05-11T20:06:00.000-04:00

My doctor found another Kaiser doctor who preforms versions in the next county. So I will be heading to see her May 23rd for a regular appointment, and then if all looks good I am scheduled for the version the next day, Tuesday the 24th at 2:30 at Reston Hospital. I feel better now that I at least have a chance at turning this baby forcefully if she doesn't do it on her own. Still hoping for the less painful option of her listening to her mother and getting in place on her own. We shall see if that will work.

When it rains...

2011-05-11T14:44:00.000-04:00

Today was my 36 week appointment. Countdown of the last 4 weeks. The beginning of the end. My doc did the strep B test and I declined the internal (my dilation at 36 weeks has NO bearing on when I will go into labor). I asked him if the baby felt head down. He said it felt that way but that he couldn't be sure without an internal exam. I was about to blow it off and told him I trusted his judgement, but then he suggested that we do an u/s just to be sure. I'm not one to turn down seeing my baby, so off we went to the sono room.

As he is looking at the screen he asks me what made me ask about her being breech- mother's intuition? I told him that my first was breech and was turned by version at 37 weeks. And then he said the thing that I fear the most at this point in pregnancy: the baby is breech.

Ugh.

Really NOT what I need right now.

So what are my options? My doctor is not experienced in doing a version (turning the baby from the outside) so he does not feel comfortable doing it. He says that it is a dying art due to the ease at which doctors can do c-sections instead. He is calling around today to find out if there are any doctors in the area who would be willing to do the procedure.

IF there is a doctor willing, it would need to happen next week. Past 37 weeks the baby gets too big to turn and there is less fluid to ease the process.

IF there is a doctor willing, it's still not a happy thing. The procedure is extremely painful. They give you a drug that calms your uterus that makes you all jittery and you sign away your life beforehand so that they can rush you to an OR if anything goes wrong. It's not something that I want to do again. But I'd take it over a c-section.

It's still possible for this girl to turn. There's room and she's not engaged in my pelvis yet. This is my first choice if I were to chose what would happen. Lots of prayers will begin...

My final option is a c-section. I have NEVER wanted a c-section. I know they're common now, yada yada yada- and I'm not dissing anyone who's had one- but I just don't like them. I would hate being strapped to a table, cut open, to not be able to hold my baby right away, the long healing time afterward... I have always been a full participant in my labors- I find joy in the labor and birth process. It just makes me sad to think about it. Of course if that's my only option, then that's what I'll do... the baby's health is the most important thing. It's just not what I wanted.

But then, who ever said that we get everything that we want?

I'll post again when my doctor calls to let me know my options.

Happy Birthday Kaylon!

2011-05-11T14:36:00.000-04:00

We got to celebrate Kaylon's 29th birthday yesterday! Liliana started the day off with a bang when she got so excited that she told Kaylon half of the presents we had gotten him the day before. We had a discussion after that about secrets and surprises.

Kaylon got off of work early and we surprised him by taking him out to an Indian restaurant. I have been anti-Indian food since he started to love it, so this was a big deal. Turns out he was just feeding me the wrong Indian food. While Kaylon is a "drown everything in sauce guy" I'm not. Turns out he only introduced me to the saucy Indian food... I have now found out that I like the stuff sans sauce :)

Anyways, after our dinner we came home to have brownies and open presents.

Check out Moira helping Daddy blow out the candles! It's the funniest face!

The girls got him a Star Wars t-shirt, a grill brush, some chocolates, and some gum. I got him a new watch that better matches his job status. We had some great family time and lots of fun.

Happy Birthday Kaylon!

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T21:32:00.003-04:00

Happy Mother's Day to all the mothers out there, especially our mothers, Elyse and Susie. We are so blessed to have such dedicated, strong mothers who have led us with their examples. I hope that everyone had a wonderful day!

I have to brag a little and say that I was completely spoiled today! Kaylon made us pancakes and bacon for breakfast before we ran off to 8:30am church. Grace and Liliana sang beautifully with the primary during sacrament meeting. After we got home from church Kaylon took over, allowing me to take a much needed nap! He and Grace had some secret plans going on downstairs, so I think it was mutually beneficial. Dinner was gourmet and homemade- bruschetta, Caesar salad, chicken and pasta in a tomato cream sauce, with a (non homemade, but delicious) red velvet cake for desert. There was even a young beautiful waitress waiting on me the whole time! I then got my present- a box decorated by Grace with pre/post baby massage helps- lotions, rollers, oils, etc, and a certificate for a pregnancy massage. Also included was my long awaited charm representing Moira for my mother's bracelet! I always feel guilty wearing it without Moira "on" it, but we just weren't in a place to purchase it when she was born. When baby four will get hers, well, who knows ;). I also received a few cards from Grace and a candy flower she made for me at church today, as well as many hugs, kisses, and praise from my whole family. I am so blessed to have a husband who really makes a big deal out of these holidays and teaches our girls how they should be showered with love as well.

I love being a mother. It's not easy. I'm not always great at it. Sometimes I stink at it actually. But I wouldn't trade it for any other job. I'm nervous about number four coming... that's a lot of people to be responsible for! But I know with the support of my husband, my family, and my friends, I can do it. Course at this point I don't have much choice- check out this pregnant belly!

Happy Mother's Day!

Moving (Again)!

2011-04-25T10:41:00.003-04:00

After a lot of thought we have decided that we need more room when our 4th little girl arrives. Our townhouse right now is great except for 2 things: super small bedrooms and a small eat in kitchen. The living space is great, but those other 2 things are kinda important. So we began our search again for a 4 bedroom rental, since we aren't comfortable buying right now due to the market and our unknown work status in 5 years- we could be here, or we could be in London for all we know. To afford a rental like that we knew we'd need to move to Southeast Maryland, Woodbridge, or Manassas, VA. Since we don't feel like changing state status again we focused on Woodbridge. It has many transportation options (bus, train, sluglines), good schools, cheaper housing, and our friends the Smiths! After a few weeks of searching, some reshaping of priorities, and lots of prayer, we have signed a lease for June 1st! We'll double rent the month of June so that it will be less stressful (with the baby coming around June 9th) and so that Grace can finish school. Then we'll have July and August to get settled before Grace and Liliana start a new school in September. Here are some pictures of our new 5 bedroom, 2 full bath place!

Happy Easter

2011-04-24T21:31:00.001-04:00

Great Falls

2011-04-22T15:40:00.000-04:00

Kaylon took off 2 days this week to spend some time with us for Grace's spring break. We had wanted to go camping, but I had to veto that due to a very pregnant belly. (I can't sleep all night in my own bed- there's no way I'm gonna sleep on the ground away from a bathroom!) So instead we decided to go camping without camping. We started our day with a small hike at Great Falls National Park (as a bonus, it was national parks week, so it was free!).

After a short break at home for a Moira nap, we headed south of Woodbridge to the national forest there. We rented a campsite, built a fire, and had hotdogs and s'mores. We enjoyed the beautiful weather and the girls put together a pile of leaves to jump in. We stayed until after dark, telling stories and singing songs around the fire. We headed out at 10pm with the younger two already asleep (and the oldest following quickly). It was a great compromise for us- Kaylon got a day totally outdoors, and I got to sleep in relative peace.

Grace Fieldtrip

2011-04-13T15:32:00.003-04:00

I got to go with Grace on her Spring field trip to a public garden in Alexandria. They taught the kids about nature, pollination, and compost. The rain held off long enough that we could go outside for a nature walk and to see their compost pile. It was fun spending the day with Grace and her friends!

Liliana's Kindergarten Orientation

2011-04-13T14:53:00.002-04:00

Yes, it's that time, can you believe it? Liliana will be 5 before school starts in the fall which means that she will be heading off to kindergarten! We've been debating for the last 6 months on whether to hold her back or not, but in that time she has matured a lot and we've started to recognize her learning style. Liliana does things when she feels like it. If I can twist an old saying- you can try to teach Liliana the alphabet but you can't make her learn it. She refused to learn anything for years- colors, letters, numbers- nothing. But in the last few months she has learned them all! And she enjoys in now too. With those things behind us, we've decided to move forward with school, with the plan to pull her out if she doesn't take to it, since she will be a very young kindergartener.

So, back to orientation. Liliana was excited as soon as I told her (the day before). She kept asking when we would be going (over and over and over). Finally we got to go- just the two of us- and she ran up the hill to school. She loved her name tag and pencil. She said hi to people and was outgoing. When they took the kids to the classroom, she left me with a quick "bye!" and hurried off with the others. I saw them taking their tour of the school, and she was the line leader- holding the teacher's hand. I'm not sure if that was because she wasn't listening, too excited, or just a coincidence. She looked soooo happy. She just loved being a big girl. When we joined back with the kids, we got to take them outside for their first school bus ride. Another huge thrill for Liliana. She had a huge grin and waved from her seat. I had been so afraid of school since she has such a hard time at church, but she proved me wrong. Of course I realize that after being at school for a whole day she might change her mind and we might go through some growing pains, but that's all part of growing up. The important thing is that she had a good experience :)

Happy Update

2011-04-10T16:03:00.002-04:00

I guess if I'm updating on the scary times of mom's illness, I should update on the good things too! Mom was released from the hospital on Thursday (I think it was Thursday, anyway). She left with two extra appendages- a drain in her right lung and a port in her chest for her chemo, which starts this week. She was able to recover some from those procedures and nail down her treatment schedule before she left. Her chemo will be every three weeks and will be pretty aggressive, as long as her body can handle it (if not, they'll drop the second medication and keep going with the primary). We hope that by starting this aggressively that her tumors will dry up quickly and she'll get some more time with her grandchildren (and her kids too, I guess). Even though chemo is NOT what she wanted to do, she's in good spirits, and her faith in the Lord is stronger than ever.

Thank you for your love and support. It means the world to her and us (her kids).

:)

Mom Update 2

2011-03-30T20:46:00.002-04:00

Mom had her right lung drained on Monday and everything went well. To our surprise it had three times as much fluid as the left. Historically the left side tumors have been more active, but I guess they have switched roles. We all wondered what that could mean, but none of us have the medical knowledge to make any good conclusions.

Today was her doctor's appointment with her oncologist. We were hoping that the doctor would prescribe another oral hormone treatment, but sadly, she is suggesting that Mom do chemotherapy. This was not what any of us wanted- we all remember how sick Mom was last time, plus it kills me that again I can't be there to help her, since I only have 10 weeks left until the baby arrives. I imagine that the doctor does not want to risk wasting time on a treatment that has already failed while Mom's lungs are already filling back up with fluid. She needs to do a PET scan to determine the state of the cancer and then the doctor will decided the duration and strength of the chemo. So again, we wait.

My mom, siblings, and I appreciate the outpouring of support, love, and prayers that have come our way. Thank you.

Update on Mom

2011-03-23T17:59:00.004-04:00

We found out this week that my mom's cancer treatment has, for whatever reason, stopped working. Her lungs are filling with fluid again and her cancer-markers have gone up. As soon as she can get insurance approval she will get the fluid extracted from her lungs, one at a time, and then next Wednesday she will start a new (yet unknown) treatment. We're hoping that it will be an oral, hormone treatment again, since they don't kill your body like the IV chemos do.

Mom is doing ok- not breathing as well, obviously, but we're glad that we found the fluid before she was on her death bed like last time. Any prayers or good thoughts in her direction would be appreciated.

Chore?

2011-03-23T17:57:00.001-04:00

When asked last night what kind of chore Liliana did to help out around the house, she had her answer ready:

Flushing the toilet.

Didn't know I was asking so much of my kids...

Baby Names

2011-03-15T14:33:00.002-04:00

With older children we have been getting a lot of suggestions on what to name our new little girl. It's a good thing that we didn't give them to power to do the choosing...

Grace's choices: Feliz Navidad, Grace, Gretel (after her best friend), or Aurora
Liliana's choice: Wiggly Baby (after her beloved baby doll)
Moira's choice: who knows, but based on her favorite words it would probably be something like, No, or I'm Mad, or Mine

We (the actual parents) have a running list of names that we add and subtract from from time to time. Nikita (from Kaylon) and Meredith (from me) have already been vetoed. We don't plan on actually naming her until we meet her though, so don't be expecting anything concrete any time soon.

The Problem with Children Being Able to Talk...

2011-03-10T16:39:00.003-05:00

My children will not stop fighting!

Everything turns into an argument. Who's going to be first? Who's going to get the purple cup? Who's going to be the princess? Who is going to be a particular character in the movie they're watching? Who's barbie gets to wear the popular dress for the moment? Who gets to sit on the left side of the bed?

ALL of the the above arguments happen REGULARLY in my home. I'm trying to cut the words "I'm first" out of their vocabulary and to encourage them to take turns, but I'm getting seriously frustrated with them all. Even Moira has joined in on some of these arguments (No! Por-pul cup!).

Why can't they all just get along?

Liliana's Specialist Appointment

2011-02-24T13:11:00.002-05:00

Liliana and I set off for Springfield this morning in rush hour traffic with her bag full of comfort objects and entertainment, ready for whatever the morning would bring us. Well, everything except what happened.

The specialist measured her and said that she grew an inch, not 1/4 inch.

Good news, I know, but frustrating too. What's up with the difference in measurements? And how does this change what they've been telling me for 5 months? There's still an x-ray showing 1.5 years delay in growth and preliminary blood work that showed a growth hormone deficiency. Trust me, I'm glad they don't want to stick a hep-lock in my baby, but I don't want it to be at her detriment if they find out down the road that something WAS wrong, but some measurement issues messed it up.

Lucky for you, I get to explain this to you this afternoon when I understand it- mostly. Our regular pediatrician's and the specialist's measurements are not being done with the same ruler- they are about one inch off.

Exhibit One:

Ped. 9/17: 36.5 in
Spec. 9/29: 37.5 in
Ped. 1/28: 37.75 in
Spec. 2/24: 38.5 in

So by either doctor's measurements, she DID grow an inch. But we were comparing the 2nd Pediatrician measurement to the 1st Specialist measurement, which shows almost no growth. It's like apples and oranges- two separate things- fine on their own, but don't mix them!

They will continue to watch her closely, but their diagnosis right now is that she has a year and a half constitutional delay. She will probably be about that far behind her peers UNTIL they stop growing, while she continues to grow for a year and a half after them. If she stops growing again, then they will reevaluate if she needs the 2-hour- lots-of-needles-test. The doctor says that at this age we're ok waiting, and if we were to catch it in 6 months or a year, she would still have plenty of time to grow.

And knowing that I could walk out of the office not feeling like my daughter wasn't getting what she needed. The last thing I want to do is make a mistake in judgment that my child will have to pay for. Being short isn't the worst thing in the world- but I wouldn't want her to be abnormally small because I didn't stand up for her and she missed her chance for a treatment that was available. We have time- and hopefully she'll continue to grow, even if it's a little behind everyone else.

And just in case you wanted to know- if you plot her on the 3 year old height chart (the age of her bones) she is in the 75%. Maybe she'll be taller than her mom after all :)

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-15T09:28:00.002-05:00

Kaylon loves being the knight in shining armor on Valentine's Day. He threw us a sock-hop, complete with new socks, chocolate, swing music, and decorations. My future son in laws will have a lot to live up to!

Thanks Kaylon!

23 weeks belly shot

2011-02-14T21:48:00.002-05:00

What happens when Mom is Sick

2011-02-10T11:03:00.002-05:00

I am sick. I have a stupid runny nose and a sore throat. I feel like crap.

My 2 youngest decided to have a picnic of raisins downstairs. By picnic I mean that they dumped half of a BIG box of raisins onto the floor and got water from the bathroom sink. Some of the raisins landed on plates, onto which they added some of the water. They're cleaning that up now, even though Liliana tells me periodically that she doesn't know how.

Yesterday, with their older sister as a guide, they put a towel on a toy box and poured water on top of it. Not sure what the thrill of that was, but afterward they got to clean up everything that was on the floor before they got to eat. That was a thrill for me.

I hate being sick.

It's a GIRL!!!!

2011-02-03T17:11:00.002-05:00

With all the confusion of the possible health risks, Kaylon and I had decided to find out the sex of the baby if something was indeed wrong. I had the ultrasound tech write down the sex for me to take home and open with Kaylon.

But there was one problem- ok not a real problem, a conflict we'll say- there was nothing wrong. So do we open it or not. Kaylon said no, but I had been looking forward to it for a week and a half and not opening it seemed wrong. Plus I had been looking at the ultrasound and had convinced myself that I had seen boy parts and didn't want to think that way the rest of the pregnancy and then find out I was wrong. And it was just too big a temptation to have that envelope in my hands. Kaylon relented on the premise that IF there was a next one that I would be firmly on board with not finding out and that I wouldn't try to read the ultrasound and guess.

We let Grace do the honors. She opened it excitedly and then stared at the page, confused: it was written in cursive! So I got to read it after all- It's a Girl! Grace was overjoyed. She ran around the room saying, "My wish came true!!!" Liliana was also happy and Moira was oblivious.

Kaylon and I are both happy. We both agreed that we would have liked the chance to try our hand at a boy, but another girl is a welcomed blessing and a joy- not to mention cheaper since we have all the girl stuff. The girls can be split between rooms evenly now and hopefully they will grow up to be best friends. And yes, we realize what a hormone- ridden house ours will be in 10 years, and yes, Kaylon will have a man cave so that he can escape when he needs to get away from the estrogen. I have promised him that for years.

But most of all I'm excited to raise a family of strong, smart, confident girls who will one day influence the world in their own ways.

Pregnancy Scares

2011-02-03T16:37:00.002-05:00

The last week and a half have been some of the most stressful of my life. I was told at my regular OB appointment on the 24th that I had borderline low fluid- it was at the 5% and anything below that can be dangerous. Google research showed scary things that can cause low fluid (which I was pretty sure I didn't have since the baby had all its organs), but even scarier to me were all the awful things that can happen because of the low fluid. Things like growth stunting, underdeveloped lungs, cord compression, and even death. Treatment wasn't a sure thing and wouldn't be easy: fluids and bed rest. With three active girls, I just couldn't see it.

A repeat ultrasound showed the same low fluid level and I was referred to a specialist. I couldn't get an appointment for a week, though, so I started the waiting/worry period. I was told not to exercise, I did only the most basic housework, and told Liliana I couldn't carry her around anymore. I scared myself on internet sites. I prepared myself for the possibility of bed rest, premature labor, c-section, and death. I did get a blessing, which helped as I put my will into the hands of the Lord, and tried to have the faith necessary to be strong through this.

Finally my appointment came and I got a full ultrasound again. The baby was more cooperative this time and I got to see the profile pictures I had missed on the other scan. And then the doctor walked in and informed me that my fluid was perfect! I was stunned. He said that everything looked perfect and that the baby and I should be fine.

The emotions I felt last night are hard to describe. Relief, obviously. The absence of the stress was tangible. Some annoyance at the worry I had been put through. Anger at myself for getting so wrapped up in it and involving other people, which made them worry. Happy that my baby was healthy. Paranoid that the levels will drop again. Excited that I could have my normal life back. Everything at once was overwhelming.

But a good night's sleep can put everything into perspective. I had been facing the real possibility of my baby being hurt in some way. A baby that I love and cherish already; a baby that I have sacrificed for. The urgency from my doctor was real, not imagined. The stories on the web were actual accounts and a real possibility. But so far, I am not one of them. Whether by miracle or biology, my baby is perfect. And now I know that when faced with possible disaster, I lean toward preparing for the worst so that I am not blindsided if that happens. So I learned something about myself. And I saw that people care about me and my family, and that makes me feel good. They worried with me and then they rejoiced with me when I reported that all was well. And now that things are better I am happily returning to my exercise schedule and vacuuming!

But one thought keeps returning. I got just a glimpse of what it is like to have a sick child; a sliver of the anxiety that comes as you face the hurt/death of the one you have pledged to protect. My heart goes out to those parents who have faced the full force of that disaster; who did not have the reprieve that I received. And I am all the more grateful for all that I have.

Food Critic

2011-02-03T15:37:00.002-05:00

Grace is making a habit out of critiquing dinner, and I got the brunt of it the other night. She tasted the food on her plate and told me,

"This doesn't taste quite right."

"I'm sorry. I think it tastes just right."

"Are you sure you put in all the ingredients?"

"Yes. I'm sure I did."

Maybe she has a future in the cuisine business...

Moira's Birthday Party

2011-02-01T09:28:00.003-05:00

We had lots of fun for Moira's birthday! We had a "decorate your own cupcake" party (so much less stressful than decorating one myself!), presents, and reading time. Moira totally got the "presents-thing" this year- she kept telling her sisters- MINE!

Happy 2nd Birthday Moira!!!

2011-01-30T14:55:00.004-05:00

Was it really only 2 years ago? It seems like forever and yet yesterday, all at the same time.

Moira is strong. She defends herself and those she loves. She is tenacious, oh is she tenacious. She is sweet and loving; smart and funny. She is a wonderful part of our family and I can't imagine our lives without her. Happy birthday my little girl!

Liliana's Height

2011-01-29T14:33:00.002-05:00

Liliana's long awaited height check appointment was on Friday. She was very excited, but mostly because she was going to tell the doctor about the "baby in her belly" and have her "get it out." Yes, we have some issues with reality around here. Anyways, we were hoping for more than a half inch of growth, but she only grew 1/4 of an inch.

Which throws us into step two of this process, the first part of which was blood work to rule out some genetic problems (which Kaylon got to do today!) and then make an appointment with the specialist. I read that there's another test that needs to be done which entails an IV and blood draws every 30 minutes which, I'm sure, Liliana will just love. Most likely she will need to have weekly growth hormone injections to stimulate her growth. Not so sure how we're going to do that with a girl that hates needles, but I guess we'll figure it out.

I feel the need to explain that this is not a cosmetic or arbitrary choice we're making. Liliana is not just short. It's not because she is low on the growth charts- my girls fell off the weight charts for the first 3 years of their lives and I didn't bat an eye. Liliana is not creating or releasing the growth hormones needed to grow. An x-ray showed that she has the bones of a 2.5 year old. She was always near the 50% for height... until this year when she dropped to the 5%. She'll continue to drop if we don't do anything. If your child can't see, you get them glasses. My child can't grow, so I'm going to get her shots of hormones that hopefully after time she'll forget and be grateful for. Maybe when she can finally ride the roller coasters she loves so much she'll understand...

So we'll keep you posted. And hopefully you won't be able to hear her screams the next time a needle comes near...

Actual Conversation

2011-01-26T12:15:00.002-05:00

So 30 minutes before my birthday ended last Friday, Liliana threw up. It was an interesting end to what had been a good day. She emptied her stomach a few more times and then Moira followed suite a few hours later. Kaylon slept through most of it.

The next morning Liliana came into our room with this little tidbit:

"Daddy, I had a bad dream last night. I dreamed that a monkey crapped in my mouth and so I threw up."

No lie.

Ultrasound!

2011-01-20T13:45:00.003-05:00

I can't believe that I'm 20 weeks already! 20 weeks and I haven't taken one belly shot. I guess I should do that sometime.

Anyways, we had our 20 week u/s today. We decided that we would leave the sex a secret again this time, and even though we both secretly tried to see 'parts' neither of us were able to see anything definitive. The baby was not very cooperative. It stayed down near my cervix and would not allow for any good profile pictures. The tech almost couldn't get all the heart pictures she needed, but with some turning on my side from me, she finally got the views she needed. The good thing is the baby looks healthy, is measuring right on target, and is stubborn like its mother (oh wait, maybe that's not a good thing...). Sorry to you that are disappointed in not knowing... Kaylon and I both enjoyed the excitement of hearing "It's a ...." at the end of the delivery. That memory won out over my desire to have baby clothes ready to go before the baby is born.

Penny Predicament

2011-01-20T13:16:00.002-05:00

Most of you know by now that Grace swallowed a penny last Thursday and had to be hospitalized. This is the first time I've been able to sit down and blog about it- and hopefully it'll fill in the holes of the story.

Last Thursday morning, 30 minutes before we were to leave for school, Grace was shaking a penny in a plastic toy tub, when the penny found a hole in her fingers and flew into her mouth. I think the surprise of it caused an automatic swallow reflex to happen (Grace can't explain very well WHY she swallowed it, just that she couldn't get it out of her mouth, so I guess the reflex is my theory). She ran in sobbing, told me the story, and I told her she would just have to poop it out. She was quite upset and told me between sobs that her chest hurt. Grace can be.... we'll say, sensitive to pain, so I wondered if the pain wasn't from the crying, but decided to look online for some idea of what to expect. All the sites recommended a call to the doctor, in case they want a x-ray, so I placed the call. They said that they'd get back to me when the doctor got in.

So, I'm thinking, she swallowed a penny- she'll poop it out in a few days- and so I take her to school. Literally 2 minutes after dropping her off the doctor's office calls wanting her to come in for an x-ray. So I pull a U-y, drag my two other kids into the school, and pick Grace back up. Luckily my good friend Michelle was willing to take the other two for what I figured would be an hour tops as we got confirmation that the penny was moving on and took Grace back to school. I didn't even have Grace bring her backpack with her.

Instead, the x-ray showed the penny to be stuck in her lower esophagus. They decided to repeat the test at the 3 hour swallowing mark to see if it wouldn't move before sending us to the ER. The repeat showed that it still hadn't moved. Off to the Fairfax Pediatric ER we went.

The ER was fantastic. They had books, toys, coloring pages and crayons, and TV to entertain/distract the kids. Plus they had people who's whole job was to act as a child liaison, answering the kids' questions and explaining procedures in kid language. They were amazing.

The doctors looked at the film and determined that the coin was a quarter, even after Grace confirmed multiple times that it was a penny. Knowing they had been playing with Liliana's pennies lately, I was pretty sure the coin was a penny as well, so I told them that I guessed we would see. After consulting all the experts, they decided to wait for the 24 hour mark to check again (if we didn't see the penny pass on its own). Statistics say that most coins (75%) will pass in 24 hours on their own. They wanted to avoid anesthesia if at all possible, since while safe, it carries risks that outweigh a 24 hour wait. But in order to wait, Grace couldn't eat, to avoid an complications in the esophagus. And since she couldn't eat, she needed an IV. And an IV means a hospital room.

Grace did fantastic. With the help of the child liaison's instructions and distractions, she didn't even cry when they put in the IV. The hunger made her uncomfortable, but having her own personal TV and a room full of toys, games, and puzzles helped her get through. Kaylon came in the evening to switch with me, and he stayed the night.

Early the next morning they did the x-ray right in her room. The penny was still there. An endoscopy was scheduled and the girls and I drove down to see her before she went into the procedure room. I have to say, one of the funniest things I've ever seen is my child undergoing anesthesia. She whimpered that the medicine hurt; I rubbed her arm to comfort her; her eyes fluttered; she yawned; and then she was asleep. It was amazing.

The procedure took less than 20 minutes. She woke up and guzzled her first apple juice in over 24 hours. They gave her cookies and she excitedly talked about ordering a cheeseburger when she got back to her room (which she got). She wanted to order 4 meals since that's how many she was missing, but she didn't even finish the one, so I'm glad I talked her out of it. We had to wait around for our discharge, but we got out of there around 1 in the afternoon with the penny (not quarter) in a bag and pictures from the endoscopy for proof. Grace complained on the way home that she missed "her hospital." Hopefully she won't swallow another penny in hopes of getting back.

Tactfulness

2011-01-16T20:35:00.002-05:00

Kaylon likes to cook on weekends, and when he cooks he puts a lot more effort into his meals than I do. Tonight he recreated a sun dried tomatoes pasta dish from Cheesecake Factory with success. I was ready for the girls to refuse it, but the younger two ate it quickly once they got past the "this is something new" stage. Grace was quick to try it but was less enthusiastic as time went on. Finally she got the courage up to address the chef.

"Daddy, I really don't want to hurt your feelings, but this isn't my particular favorite food. It's not like I hate it or anything, I just..."

"What don't you like about it? Is it the sun-dried tomatoes? I can take those out.."

"No, Dadddy, it's really all of it. I just... kinda, really hate it."

It still makes me laugh.

New Pics

2011-01-16T14:46:00.004-05:00

Here are the pictures from our recent trip to JCPenny. Family will be getting their copies soon!

New Van!

2011-01-09T15:16:00.004-05:00

Before Mom leaves on Tuesday to return to AZ for the duration of the cold weather, she hinted to Kaylon to take me out for the weekend, which he acted on. He kidnapped me Friday night and took me to the Hyatt at Reston Town Center for a relaxing weekend of no kids, cooking, or housework.

We decided to also use this time to buy a new van, since our 1998 Toyota Sienna was just deemed to need 2000$ of work in addition to the A/C and ABS work that needed done (totaling probably $5000-6000). Having bought cars at a dealership before, and knowing our personalities and strengths in such situations, we had a plan going in: Kaylon would do the talking and I would shut my mouth and use my poker face. (I am EASILY guilted.) We ended up with a 2007 Honda Odyssey EX-L with a built in DVD player and navigation for a couple thousand less than it was really worth, thanks to Kaylon's negotiating skills (He was quite amazing!).

Course, the automatic door is already sticking... thank goodness for a 3 year full warranty!

It was a great weekend for just the two of us- even better being able to take care of the van without kids tagging along, and so much fun to show the girls the new van when we got home (and have them truly excited to see US!).

The Only Picture from Christmas Day

2010-12-26T10:07:00.002-05:00

Am I a bad mother? It just makes things frustrating to stop everyone every couple minutes and take a picture... so I just didn't do it. Oh well. Here's the one that Kaylon took on his cell.

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T13:18:00.003-05:00

Greetings this Christmas morning from the McInelly family! Our Christmas season has been wonderful to say the least. I feel so blessed with the knowledge that our Savior was born 2000 years ago and that we can celebrate his birth with a holiday that brings families and communities closer together.

The girls woke up this morning at a quarter till 5 to find that Santa had left their stockings in their room. They opened everything and played for two hours- well the older two did. I brought Moira into our room and she fell back asleep before I did (smartest thing mommy did today!). The girls knew that 7am was the magic hour and came in to wake us up on the dot. They helped us open our stockings (I got my 1st MP3 player!), and we headed downstairs.

Highlights of gifts:

Grace: jewelry making kit, Fashion Barbie, Jasmine doll, robe, Zoobles playset, robot building set, baby doll, clothes, and jewelry.

Liliana: from Toy Story: Rex and Jessie, remote control car, FurReal puppy, ColorWonder Paints, clothes, jewelry, Zoobles playset, and Toy Story 3.

Moira: pig pillow pet, FurReal kitty, drum, spiderman punching bag, books, a zooble, baby doll, and a rocking keyboard.

Moira had to be the cutest this morning- this is only her 2nd Christmas, but she's almost two, so she "got" it. She tore bows off (even if it wasn't her present), ripped off paper, and jumped for joy (literally) for each gift. She was so happy! She played with each toy as she waited for her next turn to open. She was so fun to watch!

Grace and Liliana were great too of course- they were gracious with their thank you's, and other than a few gripes from Liliana about jewelry, were happy with their gifts.

And one of the best moments was after we were done and Grandma looked out the window to see snow falling- big fluffy flakes that stuck to the ground and bushes. It made the morning so pretty- even if it didn't amount to much in the end. They are calling for a measurable amount tomorrow, which will be nice.

We hope that you all were able to feel the Spirit of the season today. Merry Christmas to all!

Book Reading with Grandma Elyse

2010-12-20T14:34:00.003-05:00

The girls got a great gift today from Grandma Elyse- the new Hallmark books that have the recorded voice of a loved one on them. The girls haven't put it down in the last half hour! What a great way to hear Grandma's voice whenever they want to even when she's in Arizona!

Christmas Dresses

2010-12-20T14:32:00.000-05:00

First Snow!

2010-12-20T14:29:00.002-05:00

We got our first 1-2 inches of snow last Thursday. It was just enough to play in. Moira got her first (real) experience with the white stuff, and you can tell from her face what she thought of it. They played outside long enough for me to do the shoveling.

We're excited because the 5-day forecast is calling for snow on Christmas Eve! Even just another dusting would be lovely!

Potty Training Continues...

2010-12-20T14:25:00.002-05:00

Actually, she won't use this potty unless someone else is on the big one- I guess she thinks she's too big for that now! She continues to tell us she needs to go potty- and holds it until we get there. The only time I ask her if she needs to go is right before she goes to sleep, and only because I know that if I don't ask, she'll be knocking on the door in a few minutes, naked, asking to go. She's not potty trained- she's still in diapers- but if it gets me out of changing a poopy diaper, I'll take it.

Bah Humbug!

2010-12-13T13:54:00.000-05:00

If you are an old grumpy man who doesn't like kids, let me give you some advice- don't sit in the booth next to two kids when you have your choice of booths. And if you're an old grumpy man who likes making toddlers cry, I hope you enjoy your hereafter in hades!

And on a side note, sometimes I wish I were braver so that I could have told this man off, but I console myself with the thought that he could have been on the edge and gone postal on us had we confronted him- because seriously- who makes a 1-year old cry and doesn't apologize for it?

Happy News!!!

2010-12-09T14:18:00.002-05:00

We are excited to share our exciting news with our friends and family: McInelly baby number 4 should arrive sometime in the beginning of June! (due date of June 9th) I am finally starting to feel better, happily a few weeks before I felt better with any of the other ones. And my belly has started to pop out- I guess with #4 there's no holding it back!

The older sisters are all very anxious for the arrival that is still six whole months away... I was surprised especially by Liliana's reaction. She frequently talks to the baby (and the baby 'talks back'), and discusses all the things she and the baby will do when it comes. Grace insists that it will be another girl, but we're trying to prepare her for the possibility of blue in our house (not that we care either way, but it's good to be prepared). Moira kisses my belly sometimes, usually after seeing her sisters do it (it's still sweet).

We plan on not finding out the sex again, although I say that with the knowledge that it being my fourth baby I can read ultrasounds pretty well, and if I see some parts, I'll know what they are. Now that the name fight is over (Eve is Moira's middle name and so no longer an issue) I'm not as adamant as Kaylon. But if that's how he wants it, I can support him. :)

Anyways, we're are so excited to welcome another child into our home! We are so blessed!

Self Potty Training

2010-11-30T19:52:00.002-05:00

Moira, who will be two in January, is potty training herself. It started one morning when she came into the bathroom stark naked and I put her on the potty until I could get a diaper back on her. She peed, and I made a big deal about it (of course). Since then she LOVES going potty on the toilet. On Saturday she threw a fit every time we took her off (cuz we had things to do other than sit and watch her grin on the toilet, no matter how cute it is). I got out the little training potty, which allows her to go potty herself, which she does. She went upstairs tonight and went poop- without even telling me.

We're still working on things like wiping and getting clothes back on (she can take them off just fine). But she is seriously potty training herself. Such a crazy kid!

The Price to be Paid for McDonald's

2010-11-23T15:50:00.002-05:00

Usually about once a day Liliana recounts to someone her accident "at Lexi's house that made her bleed all over." She describes going to the doctor, being scared, and going to McDonald's after. The other day she asked me if we could go to McDonald's for lunch. I told her no, that we were eating at home that day. She then asked,

"Then can I get an owie on my head so I can go to the doctor and then we could go to McDonald's?"

Hmmmmm, not the message I was hoping she'd get from my generosity...

Fall Update

2010-11-16T14:23:00.003-05:00

Wow things have been busy lately!! Mom arrived in late October and we have been busy getting her settled, finding doctors, and organizing her room. The girls have loved having Grandma here- and Kaylon and I have appreciated not being outnumbered by children! We are all happy to have her here as part of our family. Plus we got the great news soon after she got here that her PETscan shows great improvement and that the hormone treatment is working! What a great and unexpected blessing after such a scary summer!

Grace got her 1st first grade report card and again she is doing an amazing job at school. She got all O's (outstanding) and G's (good). Her reading improves all the time and her teacher says she has high empathy for a 1st grader- she really tries to make sure that everyone feels included. She started getting homework in November and she doesn't much like it. We had our first meltdown last night. It was tons of fun. :P

Grace is such a good big sister- she knows just what to say to make her sisters laugh. She recently worked very hard every day to pay off her debt from when she won her baby doll in the family auction this summer. She helps me a lot at home- she's very willing to come when called! It's amazing to be able to count on one of your children.

Liliana is stitch and steri-strip free. Our trip to the plastic surgeon confirmed that there is nothing we can really do to get rid of the scar. He suggested putting sun block on every day and vitamin E at night. It needs to be protected from the sun until the color changes. When she's older she can decide if she wants a scar reducing surgery, but by then it will be an outpatient, localized procedure, vs the knock out, traumatic experience it would be now.

Liliana could be described as emotional. She can turn from happy to sad, and back to happy in the snap of your fingers. When she is happy, she is the happiest little girl around. She will laugh, and joke, and talk your ear off. But when she's upset, watch out! She will dissolve into a fit of tears, refuse to do anything, and ignore everyone. The great thing is that the second she feels that it's in her best interest to come back to the world, she does! There's no time of warming up, no worrying about what anyone will think, she is happy again!

And then there's Moira. Oh Moira. Moira is our physical humor child. She walks into walls- to get laughs. She'll fall into pillows. She'll run in circles. She's also a physically violent child. It shouldn't surprise me after the bruises I sustained during her pregnancy. If her sisters do something she doesn't like- she lets them know- whether by pulling their hair, pushing them, or hitting them. Her nails can be particularly painful. So she spends quite a bit of time in time out. She also growls at us when we tell her no. She still loves knock knock jokes. She LOVES books. She will sit in front of the book shelf and read books for quite a while. She loves kitties and puppies, and loves to pretend to be those animals. She is independent- trying to do things I don't think she's yet capable of, and surprising me when she is. And even with all the "self defense" she can be very sweet. Her snuggles are coveted in this house, especially when her 'blankie' is involved!

Lately Moira has been a nudist. She's quite good at taking her pants off. Her sisters typically help her with her shirt, or she'll intentionally get it wet so that an adult will take it off. After she is down to her diaper, she claims victory by running up to the adults and laughing triumphantly. Until a few days ago I thought we were safe since she couldn't seem to get her diaper off. Not so anymore. She has learned a few methods for getting that off which has led to a few accidents on the floor. I'm debating at least introducing the little potty for pre-bath tries to see if potty training is somewhere in the near future. It would be nice to not buy diapers!

So life is good. We face the daily grind with all its friction, but we try to find the good in it. We're excited to start the holiday season and enjoy all the joys it brings!

Happy Halloween!!!

2010-11-02T10:26:00.002-04:00

Grace's Pumpkin

Liliana's Pumpkin

Grace getting the seeds out (just to clarify, she has a baby doll in her shirt)

Liliana and Moira refusing to touch the seeds (Moira is actually crossing her arms and saying "NO" in this pic)

Hannah Montana, Bat Girl, Queen Bee, and their friend Minnie Mouse

Stitches Are Out!

2010-10-13T13:52:00.002-04:00

Liliana got her stitches out today! Sadly it was another traumatic ordeal. She refused to stay still and so we had to papoose her again. The scab had attached itself to the stitches and so it bled some as they removed them. She cried and yelled- told off the nurses a few times. (Seriously, you don't want to get this child mad at you!). They steri-stitched it to help it continue to heal. Moira wasn't quite sure what to do with it all. At first she was content sitting on the floor playing with my wallet, but she eventually got very concerned for her sister and started crying. It was sad, very very sad.

We ended up going to Chick Fil A for lunch (I didn't want McDonald's again). That made it better. Our next step is to see the plastic surgeon in November to see if they can help us with the scar. The nurses said she was healing fast, let's just hope she heals well, too.

Summer's Farm in Frederick, MD

2010-10-11T10:38:00.010-04:00

Last October all our Saturdays to go to the pumpkin patch were rained out. This year we made sure that we went the first good day we got! So we were at Summer's Farm, in Frederick, MD this past weekend, which is the patch we've been going to since 2006. They've added some things, revamped some others, but we love the family atmosphere, the yummy fresh food, and picking our pumpkins right off the vine! Every year I picture the years past and I'm amazed by how much the girls have grown. I'll supplement some older pictures to give you the same comparison. :)

Then:

Now:

Waiting for the pig races

Going down herself didn't work out so well...

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