The Cold House Rules

September Photo Recap

2011-09-30T12:07:00.002-04:00

Rule:
Enter 365 to Watch!

Sax

2011-09-26T21:19:00.001-04:00

He is a "jock" that rocks!

Rule:
Let them try.

August

2011-09-08T16:05:00.003-04:00

July in Pictures

2011-08-03T14:15:00.002-04:00

I Am a SLACKER!

2011-08-01T14:29:00.003-04:00

Yes, I admit it, I am a slacker! No post lately and I am actually considering doing away with this blog and just tying my personal and professional blog together! Why have two? With that said, here are a couple photos from one of the most beautiful nights EVER!

We are really having a wonderful summer and I hope you are, too!

Backyard Water Park

2011-06-10T11:56:00.000-04:00

Rule:
Let them play with a water hose.

FOUR!

2011-06-08T13:35:00.001-04:00

Happy Birthday to my BABY! I love you, Beck!

Rule:
Celebrate!

The End is Near

2011-06-07T08:57:00.000-04:00

Only one more game of our regular city league lacrosse left! I am so bummed but I am also looking forward to Cooper starting is travel lacrosse team, the MAINEiax!

Rule:
Enter password lax!

May 2011 Photos

2011-06-02T16:24:00.000-04:00

Rule:
Pray the sun shines in June!

Youth Lax!

2011-05-19T09:53:00.000-04:00

I am still having a blast watching these boys play! I can't believe that the season is more than half way over. The good news is that we have Coop's club team that starts the beginning of June!

Rule:
Enter lax as password!

Mother's Day

2011-05-10T14:13:00.000-04:00

Ferry Rides, Seaglunking, Gardening, and spending time with the men I love…Yes, it was a perfect day!

Rule:
Do what you love!

Mark UP!

2011-05-07T13:52:00.000-04:00

Cooper has started his lacrosse season off with a bang. I love watching this kid play sports but I really, really, really love watching him play lacrosse!

Cooper finished his last game on Saturday and was all like, "Mom, who told you about mark up?"

Yeah, I know the lingo and I use it! Mark Up means get on a man (pair up)…find their number and stick to your mark! It's a defense term.

Cooper loves me at his games and he loves that I talk "shop" with him! I swear, I am going to be Beckett's Lacrosse coach when he is old enough to play…by then, I will be an expert!

Stay turn for next week's lesson!

Enjoy the videos from the last two Saturdays!

Rule:
Cheer and know the lingo!

April 365 Project

2011-05-01T08:15:00.002-04:00

Rule:
Look for Spring, it is coming!

First Games of 2011!

2011-04-30T19:02:00.003-04:00

Rule:
Enter password: lax

Literally -

2011-04-16T14:25:00.000-04:00

Climbing the Walls!

I hear something outside my office door and take a peek, trying not to disturb the person making the noise…yeah, I know who is making the noise but I just can't figure out why they are breathing so heavily. This is what I see first:

Can you say busted? When I snap the first photo, I must have startled this little monkey because the next picture conveys the shock that the little monkey must have felt when he saw his mother standing with a camera in hand.

Honestly, I don't think eyes could pop out of his head anymore than they did. I laughed so hard at him (literally) climbing the walls. I remember doing this very thing when I was younger.

Rule:
Bust them!

Schooled

2011-04-11T18:32:00.000-04:00

The following series of photos were taken right after I schooled my dear 9 year old son in a game of "HORSE"

I am really tired of my kids thinking that they get all their natural athletic talent from their father. Oh no, my dear boys, your mother was an amazing athletic - Softball, Track, Soccer, Cross Country, Tennis and I also rocked the rifle in the marching band! I would say that I was very well rounded, and of course, an honor roll student to boot!

So what if I can't get out of bed tomorrow morning because my neck, back and arms feel like they have been in a major car crash! It was worth it! Oh, it was worth it!

Take that Cooper!

Rule:
Just school them.

Open Letter to The National Zoo

2011-04-10T17:35:00.001-04:00

To Whom it May Concern:

My son has asked me to write you a letter to let you know that your Octopus Cam is pointed at a rock. Could you please move the camera back to its orignal loction. This situation is causing my son lots of stress, not to mention, I am going nuts listening to his complaining! Please fix the camera immediately. By the way, my son's name is Luc, he is six and he is obsessed with your very large octopus and would really like to see it again...SOON!

Thank you very much for your prompt attention to this matter!

Sincerely,
Luc's Mother

Below is the link in question:
http://nationalzoo.si.edu/Animals/OceanLiving/

Rule:
Be an advocate for your children!

Clown Shoes

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

Ok, so it hard trying to find an activity (besides being on Peaks and crabbing and seaglunking) that all of us enjoy doing together. Well, I think we came pretty close to bliss with this outing. Everyone had a great time and by the time we were finished playing, Beck was bowling on his own.

The best part of the entire outing…the clown shoes!

Rule:
Wear Clown Shoes!

Sometimes It's Easy

2011-04-07T14:28:00.000-04:00

I actually love when the days get longer and the sun shines brighter and there is still a slight cool breeze. It knocks my children right out!

This is how I found my little Beck after a long day of outside play. It took only a cup of cheerios, a soft comfy chair and for me to hit play on the DVD for him to fall fast asleep.

So what if he didn't brush teeth before bed. I got to snuggle with a fresh air baby; boy, did he smell like heaven!

Rule:
Make it easy; let them go to bed dirty!

Rethinking

2011-04-05T08:30:00.000-04:00

I really need to rethink our costume basket. Super Baby is just not as fun or as super as Super Man!

But, I must say that the bib totally adds to his super powers!

Rule:
Never stop rethinking.

Not An April Fool's Joke

2011-04-01T15:55:00.000-04:00

Yes, all of these photos were taken from the windows inside my warm house. This is not a joke, no, this is just spring in Maine.

When my youngest woke up this morning and looked out the arched window in my bedroom, he threw his hands up in the air and screamed, "That is it, I not going outside today, I not!" I don't blame him, I am not going outside today either.

Instead, I am going to cook and eat and possibly drink a lot!

I am thinking that 4:00pm will be a fine time to have a drink. Maybe, I will send my hubby out for the new Summer Ale's that are hitting the market today.

I am counting down the seconds.

Rule:
Go buy some Summer Ales and wish winter goodbye.

March 365 Project

2011-03-31T19:23:00.002-04:00

Three of my favorite photos from this month and don't forget to hit the play button for the video below.

Rule:
Never let them break.

Someone Needs a Dog

2011-03-30T08:41:00.000-04:00

I open up Luc's backpack and I found tons of "Woody" stuff. When I say, "tons", I mean tons.

For those of you who do not know, Woody is my Mom's Jack Russell Terrier and yes, Luc really wants a dog exactly like him. I have been working on my husband about a dog but to be honest, I am not even sure I am ready for one.

Poor Luc, he is an animal lover and I know that he would benefit from having a dog.

We have several friends who are foster parents for dogs, so maybe, I will fill out an application to foster a dog and give it a go.

And if my boys can scoop poop…

Rule:
Think about it.

When They Actually Want Their Photos Taken

2011-03-29T18:28:00.001-04:00

Yes, they actually ask for me to take their pictures! And when they do, it looks something like this...

Rule:
Never miss an opportunity!

Oh, The Things We Talk About

2011-03-28T17:32:00.001-04:00

It usually begins with, "Mom, do you know what?"

And I always state, "No, I don't know what." and then it just all spills out. I hope that he never stops telling me all the good stuff. And if he does, I will just lock him in his room and feed him bread and water…ok, maybe with some turkey bacon for protein.

Rule:
Listen.

It Starts Like This...

2011-03-26T18:47:00.001-04:00

…and always ends with someone trying to be a clown or someone jumping on the bed! Never, ever, ever is there a dull moment in this house!

Rule:
Always start with good intentions.

Passion

2011-03-25T18:37:00.001-04:00

I have been waiting to post about Cooper's spring lax for 9 months and it is finally here. I know that I have written many times about how much I love this sport but I am going to say it again. I love this sport.

I love the action. I love how it is one big fraternity; I love everything about it. It is so hard to explain, and even harder for a southern to explain. So I am not even going to try BUT just know this…

…as I sit here and type, I am smiling thinking about watching this little man play some lax, knowing that it makes him so happy and knowing that I am going to literally jump out of my seat and have a belly ache when he takes his first steps out on the field.

Oh, I can smell his sweaty little head, as he takes off his helmet after the game and asks, "Mom, did you see my shot?"

Yes, I am so damn excited, I can hardly wait. Now, I just need to find a babysitter for every single Saturday in May because I am not chasing the two little ones around. Nope, I will be sitting and cheering on my mini Red Riot!

Go get em' Coopie!

Rule:
Get some passion!

Taking Turns

2011-03-22T09:39:00.000-04:00

Rule:
Take turns.

And Sometimes It is Allowed

2011-03-17T18:24:00.000-04:00

How do you say no to a little boy who asks, "Can you take a picture of me jumping on the bed?"

I can't say, "NO!"

There is no way; he is just too cute. And to top it off, he smells like the fresh warm outside air.

Rule:
Let the Monkeys have their way!

Irish Blood

2011-03-16T15:50:00.000-04:00

Yes, I have a little leprechaun and he in fact has Irish blood running through his veins.

Rule:
Have a Happy St. Patrick's Day!

It's Beginning to Feel a Like...

2011-03-14T19:01:00.000-04:00

…Spring!

Well, actually it feels like winter down south - Not cold enough for big ole' jackets buts the air still takes a bite out of you. The boys love that the time has changed and they can go out after dinner and work off some of energy.

This afternoon the boys were crazy; they were yelling, "come out, get a chair, watch us play." Yes, I went out with a chair and watched them. Luc was even the one who asked me to get my camera.

We even rescued some daffodils! I dug them up and transplanted them into pots and put them in my kitchen windows. I hope that the warm temps and bright sun have them blooming soon.

Spring! I love it. I actually think I might make it to the end of April; my water will hopefully be turned on at the cottage! I can't wait to get away.

To be alone.

At the Cold House.

By myself.

On the back porched.

Drinking a beer and reading a book.

Wrapped up in a blanket!

PEACE and Quiet!

It will happen; it will happen!

Rule:
Make it happen.

Karma

2011-03-13T16:00:00.000-04:00

Luc is officially a toothless bandit or toothless wonder or whatever you would like to put with toothless.

The fact is..He is toothless!

Beck literally kicked out his 4th tooth. Ironically, Luc once kicked out someone's tooth.

Yes, you heard that correctly. Luc kicked out one of Cooper's teeth!

Karma is truly a BITCH! I am just so glad it was only a baby tooth!

Rule:
Remember Karma!

Headshots

2011-03-07T18:36:00.000-05:00

These little guys are as sick of winter as I am. I can't wait to get outside with my camera and the boys without having to, as Beckett would say, "walk like a penguin."

The good news is that the rain has actually put a dent in the snow and we can finally see all of our driveway, with the exception of the very end. With that said, the 5 foot snow piles still reside in our front yard. When they have melted, I swear, I am throwing a huge ole' party!

There is also other very good news…Cooper starts lacrosse in a couple of weeks. In fact, his Dad is at a meeting right now. We have been watching tons of college lacrosse on TV and I can't wait to see Cooper in action this year. I can't even begin to tell you how much I love watching him play lacrosse. Yeah sure, soccer is OK but it does not hold a candle to the excitement that lacrosse brings all of us. Yes, all of us! The two little boys are very excited, too. It is such a lifestyle and they are as ready as I am to bundle up and hit the fields with their sticks, backpacks and snacks!

Rule:
Count down to daylight savings.

Someone Better Get the Melting Going

2011-03-04T09:34:00.002-05:00

These photos were taken a week ago. There is so much snow that I am not sure it will melt by May!

All of the photos below were taken last March. I have officially had it with THIS winter. I always say that March is the hardest month, well March 2011 really sucks! Sorry to be so blunt but I am serious. Look at all the SNOW!

To banish my winter blue's, I will be keeping fresh flowers in my house - Lots of fresh flowers and I will be drinking heavily and using very bad words until it reaches 60+ degrees for over a week! God help me!

With all that said, here's to daylight savings time…it starts in two weeks!

Rule:
See March 2010!

February in Photos

2011-02-28T12:14:00.002-05:00

Rule:
When it snows, play outside!

Envious

2011-02-08T14:57:00.000-05:00

Wish I didn't need mascara to have lashes like this! The older he gets, the longer and darker his lashes become.

Rule:
Envy!

January 2011, 365 Project

2011-02-05T09:03:00.002-05:00

I am chugging along with my new 365 Project and managed to snap a couple good photos.

It has been a crazy month with the two little boys being sick, missing school, Cooper's physical therapy, Dave traveling, all the snow, and did I mention, Dave being home.

Thank god the groundhog did not see his shadow - I was literally about to snap…another photo!

Do you know what matter's the most? I admit, every once in a while, I need to remind myself but I DO know what matter's the most…Yeap, I sure DO!

Rule:
Snap Away!

Someone's Ego...

2011-01-22T13:21:00.000-05:00

…just got bigger!

If you read this blog, then you know that my husband plays lacrosse. A LOT!

He played in high school, college, for the pro team the Boston Blazers and now he plays every chance he gets. Yes, he leaves us sometimes to travel to exotic and faraway places. I kid you not! How does Australia, Prague, Hawaii, Vail, Ft. Lauderdale, sound? To me, exotic!

Well, my friends, he made the cover of the last lacrosse tournament he played in!

Not too bad for an old man who is pushing 50 but still thinks he is 30! Remember last summer when he broke both arms in a lacrosse game? I would not lie to you new readers. Go here to read this post.

OK, yes, we are proud of him and I am glad that he would rather be on the lacrosse field than in the bars…OK, so they go to the bars after they play lacrosse, but they are all so old, they go to bed very early…or at least that is what he tells me!

He is in the green helmet and green gloves!

Rule:

Stroke an ego today.

Snow Day!

2011-01-21T14:38:00.002-05:00

Rule:
Enjoy a snow day.

Tools

2011-01-20T10:26:00.000-05:00

Check out the tools used to build a snow fort!

Yes, that is a cobweb cleaner that you see standing up in the snow.

And there are shovels, snowball makers, and a snow brick mold…

And now he goes to work on adding the finishing touches to his snow fort tunnel...

Smooth it out, smooth it out…

Totally hard at work…

There are two engineers directing him on where to smooth…

Almost finished…

Just a little more…

And now it is complete! The handy cobweb cleaner finally got some use!

Rule:
Find some great tools.

Feeding My Soul

2011-01-19T19:15:00.000-05:00

On a cold, wet, and somewhat snowy day, I decide to feed my creative soul. I usually photograph for others, but today I decided to photograph for me.

I love natural, raw, grainy, black and white photographs!

I love textures, lines, and shapes.

This is my house, through my lens!

Rule:
Focus!

Seriously, I Do!

2011-01-18T16:52:00.003-05:00

I love the snow, seriously, I really do, but only through January 31st! After that day, I am done and mean really done. There are some exceptions, but I am not going to go into all the details right now; if we get snow in February, March or April, I will let you in on those exceptions.

So, it goes without saying, if this little guy is still in my front yard, taunting me on January 31st, I will FREAK THE FREAK OUT!

On a side note, it has almost been 10 years that I moved to Maine (my husband moved me here when it was beautiful weather and we actually had one of the warmest springs ever recorded) - I can't actually believe that I have almost made it 10 Years and in those 10 years, I have never had to take prescription medication for seasonal disorder; BUT, I have in fact, learned how to self medicate! Ok, I know, I am not proud but I am so very honest!

I now know why the Northeast Beer is so damn good! They know what they are doing and they know how to warm you right up!

Rule:
Warm UP!

What a Doozy

2011-01-18T12:38:00.000-05:00

I volunteer in my middle son Luc's classroom every Tuesday morning. I always like to get to the school early because I love listening to the children when they have morning meeting and circle time. Well, today I was in for a special treat!

Luc's teacher was discussing the holiday and asked all the children if they would like to talk about Martin Luther King, Jr. "Do you know anything about MLK? "

One little boy raised his hand and said, "A bad person killed him."

"Yes, it was a very bad person, " said the teacher.

"That makes me sad," said someone else.

I am assuming, in an effort not to go down this sad road, the teacher said, "Does anyone know something ELSE about MLK?"

My son raised his hand and his teacher said, "Luc, what do you know about Martin Luther King?"

And Luc said, "He pulled a sword out of a stone."

I am not kidding. Those were his words and I almost fell out of my chair. It took me a few minutes and then I started to crack up. I am serious, I was really cracking up! I knew exactly what he was talking about.

The teacher looked at me in total confusion and so I said to Luc, "I think you are talking about the wrong king, Luc."

And his teacher still all confused, looked at me like…

…what the hell have you been teaching in your home.

I should mention that the teacher and I have a really great relationship. My oldest son had her for a teacher, too!

And then while smiling a huge ole' smile, I said, "Luc, do you mean, King Arthur?"

Needless to say, the teacher put it together and we both had a huge laugh. I just shook my head and thought…

…boy, I bet she hears some doozies!

Rule:
Tell a Doozy!

Not a Happy Camper

2011-01-17T15:33:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, we had a big day planned: breakfast, shopping and then the big football game.

Cooper brought his wallet with him because he was determined to find a Patriots Jersey! He found one, on sale 50% off! He was totally thrilled. However, he was not so thrilled when we got home and found out that the jersey he bought had a "womens" label on the inside. Yes, he made me cut it off. Anyway, you can't tell it is a "girls" as it looks like any other jersey!

We went on about our day, made some snacks and settled in for the game. Well, right off the bat, Cooper yelled a bad word and I knew that we were in trouble. But the good fans that we are, we watched to the brutal end.

WE love football in this house and will always cheer for our team, whether they win or lose! Yes, we might get a little mad and yell and scream and swear we will never be so loyal again but we lie and always go right back to sitting on our couch with butterflies in our stomachs ready to root them on again!

Here's to next year!

Rule:
Pick a team!

This Sweet Little Face

2011-01-16T14:44:00.000-05:00

Yes, that is a rug burn on my little angel's nose. I really do not think his little face has been free of blemishes for over two years. This accident was caused from being egged on by his brothers. Come on Beck, you can do it, go ahead, 1,2,3 JUMP!

Yes, he jumped, then bounced, then did a somersault across the rug in my family room, and then he cried very loudly!

All I can do is threaten my two oldest boys. I really have no idea what to do. Well, actually I do know what to do but I am afraid if I lock the two oldest boys in cages, I might be reported to DHS!

Yes, I am aware that all little brothers get bumps and scrapes courtesy of their older mischievous brothers, but dang it, I wish the bumps and scrapes were not always on his sweet little face!

One day, he is going to open up a large can of whip ass and show those two oldest boys just how tough they have made him…and all I will do is shake my head and say, "I told you so!"

Rule:
Foretell!

The Joy of Fresh Snow

2011-01-14T09:03:00.000-05:00

Rule:
Layer up, Baby it's cold outside!

What He Said

2011-01-14T08:59:00.000-05:00

So the other day, I took photos of little Beck in the window watching it snow and watching his Dad help the neighbor get his truck unstuck. See the photos here.

While I was snapping the photos, Beck exclaimed, "Arthur needs to play Mario Kart."

"Why"

"So he can learn to drive in the snow!"

He is a smart little boy. There are in fact several snow courses on Mario Kart!

Rule:
Play Mario Kart!

The View From My Room

2011-01-12T11:47:00.000-05:00

The next post, I promise to tell you the about the conversation that I had with Beck! Check out the photos and see if you can guess how the dialogue goes!

Rule:
Take in the View and Listen!

Crazies!

2011-01-09T13:50:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, we had a wonderful day! Post holiday gathering at our house with Dave and all his siblings. The photos below are of all the first cousins! They are a great bunch of kids with really large personalities!

Rule:
Gather!

Beck At Play

2011-01-08T21:53:00.000-05:00

I love watching my boys play! They have the best imaginations.

This morning I caught Beck playing and singing and setting up his Toy Story characters. I can sit and watch them play for hours. I think these little characters have been worth every penny spent and are better than any babysitter I know!

Rule:
Sit back and watch.

Things Are Looking Brighter!

2011-01-07T15:30:00.001-05:00

Cooper is finally out of his straight leg knee brace and was fitted with this brace, which allows him to bend his leg but it will not allow him to straighten it all the way. He will need to wear this for the next 4-6 weeks - depending on how he does in therapy. He has his first physical therapy session today and I am sure he will be sore tomorrow.

He is so happy that he is finally off his crutches and on the road to recovery and his Dad and I are just thrilled that he is doing better and that it was not his ACL that he injured!

Check out his smile! He was thrilled this morning when his leg bent more than usual. He has really been working hard and to see him happy and not worried is a huge relief for me!

I can't wait to see him run again!

Rule:
Be happy!

Courtesy Prize

2011-01-06T12:22:00.000-05:00

Last night, I got about 2 hours sleep and no, it was not straight sleep. I was up with these two little ones. Both of these two have had on and off colds for a while, but they were not sick. They were still wild, crazy, and both ate like body builders! Last night they hit a wall (Beck literally - check out his eye…fight with a bar stool.)

We all got up this morning and they both downed their breakfast but I knew something was wrong, especially with Luc. My gut just knew it! I kept them both home and headed for the doctor's office.

Yes, I was right, both are sick, both had fevers and strep throat.

Anyway, we get home and Beck goes back to being crazy ole' Beck and my little man Luc, well, he went right to bed! Oh, and by the way, the stickers are courtesy prizes from our very expensive visit! Gee thanks.

Next time, I would prefer that the doctor pat me on the back and tell me that I should have my own medical degree because I am so good at diagnosing my own children! Also, it would be great if you tell me not to worry about checking out because this visit will be on the house. Yeah, right! Fat chance...

I guess these damn stickers will have to suffice.

Rule:
Trust your gut!

Big Helper

2011-01-05T16:45:00.000-05:00

This morning, we were all running around crazed! I had to get three boys ready for school, drop off in two locations, go grocery shopping, place a photo order, take Cooper to the doctor….HELP!

Cooper looked at me and said, "I will go upstairs and get the little ones dressed."

I was all like, "Go for it!"

I followed them upstairs and went in my room to get dressed for the day, thinking, there is no way in hell that Cooper is going to get both boys dressed a ready by the time we should be walking out the door.

Low and behold, when I walked into their room, this is what I see. I grabbed my camera and shot away! Oh, the joy of having a great helper and a great big brother!

Now, I just need to teach him how to make their beds and pick up their "junk" on the floor!

Rule:
Ask for help!

Yelling in Blog Land!

2011-01-03T09:51:00.000-05:00

I was thinking I was going to really start writing again. You know, like I did when I started this blog.

I would go on and on and on about how I was ready to run away, about how my children were driving me nuts, about how I felt like a single parent, about drinking way too much red wine (Psst…I don't drink wine anymore…I like good ole' cold beer!), about how I was trying to spend more time with my kids, about how plastic ruled their lives, about not letting them watch too much T.V., about how their Dad bought junk food…well, guess what, I have resorted to junk food…it is cheaper and I always seem to have a coupon for Cinnamon Toast Crunch. Yeah, that's what I said, I let my children eat, Cinnamon Toast Crunch…but only because the 55 cent coupon can be doubled and when it is already on sale for $1.99, that means they are almost eating free junk food.

See, my life has gotten totally boring. I sit at home, clean, cook, wash clothes, fold clothes, make beds, vacuum floors, clean pee off the floor and off the toilet seat (Beck lifts the lid…the other two have been watching their non-trained father, too much and have resorted to his habits) What the hell? Just when you think you have them trained, and then BOOM, your husband is finally around the house, and they pick up his bad habits!

Yes, my husband is around the house. He has been around for 9 months! JOBLESS! There I said it…JOBLESS! Ok, I have always used this blog to be upbeat and light, so this is the last time I am going to mention that my husband is home and driving me crazy and is JOBLESS!

Remember when he broke his arms…did I blog about that? Oh, yeah I did. Well, he was jobless then, too! He was home with two broken arms and JOBLESS! Can you feel my pain? Come on, tell me that you can feel my PAIN! Ok, I am stopping. Right now, I am stopping. One more thing…2010 was crazy, now I am crazy! I mean it this time, I really think I am crazy!

Wow! I feel better. Thanks blog land for the free therapy! Until our next session, I shall be calm, I will not yell, I will get out of the house, I will brush my teeth, I will clean under the boys beds, I will shave my legs, I will NOT kill me husband! I will not eat an entire bag of Dove dark chocolate….Oh, yeah…one more thing and this time I promise, I will STOP…Dave has lost 10 pounds, I have gained 8! SINCE OCTOBER!

I should mention that there are some really great things about my husband being around so much, BUT I am saving them for another post! (I am being serious! I swear! I don't totally HATE having him here!)

Stick around, this will get good! Oh, the rules are going to be crazy this year! Happy Blanked, Blanking, Blank, Blank NEW YEAR! It better be Happy!

Rule:
YELL!

100%

2010-12-31T15:19:00.003-05:00

Moments with my boys - complete! To See my entire project, Click Here 365 Project - 2010

Or you can watch all 12 months set to music by clicking on this link: Videos

Rule:
Help me think of a theme for 2011!

Won't Stop Till It's Over...

2010-12-30T18:28:00.006-05:00

This is the last video slideshow set to music of 2010! I can't believe I finished my project. Needless to say, I am pretty happy! My boys will have a wonderful DVD with all 12 months to watch and hopefully treasure for the rest of their lives.

The music on this video is so fitting….

Won't stop til it's over
Won't stop to surrender
A moment, a love
A dream, a laugh
A kiss, a cry
Our rights, our wrongs (won't stop til it's over)
A moment, a love
A dream, a laugh
A kiss, a cry
Our rights, our wrongs (won't stop til it's over)
A moment, a love
A dream, a laugh
A kiss, a cry
Our rights, our wrongs (won't stop til it's over)
A moment, a love
A dream, a laugh
A moment, a love
A moment, a love
won't stop til it's over...

Rule:
Don't Stop Till It's Over!

Coming to an End

2010-12-28T12:29:00.000-05:00

The photos below are some of my favorites from my 365 project. I was committed to taking one photo a day for 365 days that featured my boys. I only have a couple of days left and I am very proud to say that I accomplished my goal. I have a wonderful collections of portraits of my boys and these portraits are going to make one hell of a 2010 photo album.

People keep asking if I am going to continue with my project and the answer is….

…I don't know. You are going to have to check back here in 2011 and see.

I was actually thinking about taking one photo a day of my kids as soon as they wake up in the morning. The Bed Head Diaries! or perhaps a photo a day of them sleeping. The Quiet Moments.

I need a theme! I have a couple more days to figure it all out! If you have any ideas, please leave them in my comments.

Anyway, enjoy some of my favorite photos from 2010 and if you would like to see my entire project. Click on the 365 tab in the menu bar!

Rule:
Always have a theme!

Special Gift

2010-12-24T11:07:00.001-05:00

My mother gave all of her grandchildren (6) handmade quilts that took her 4 years to make and quilt. They are just beautiful. The boys loved them! Tears of joy filled my eyes as my niece read the handwritten letter that my mother gave each grandchild.

To date, this is the best gift my children have ever received.

I am all like, "No, you can't put them on your bed, they are too special." But, the little boys ran immediately, ripped off their old comforters and made their own beds.

Thanks Moo, you sure made our Christmas Eve very special! We will cherish your gift FOREVER!

Rule:
Cherish!

Injury

2010-12-23T17:19:00.000-05:00

Cooper injured his knee while playing in a basketball game; he went up for a layup and came down on his leg the WRONG way.

After a visit to the orthopedic doctor, we realized that it is a pretty significant injury (MCL). He has to wear an immobilizer for two weeks and then be reevaluated by the doctor because the doctor is concerned he also injured his ACL. We are praying that it is only his MCL and after two to three weeks of rest he will be right back at being his ole' active self.

So the only thing this very active boy can do is sit, read, watch TV, play board games and play Wii. Thank goodness he has his little brothers to play with him and of course ,his good friend across the street….thanks Keenan!

Rule:
Keep Positive thoughts…no ACL injury!

Night Tree

2010-12-21T13:41:00.000-05:00

Once again, the boys Aunt Linda came over and helped the boys decorate the night tree.

Every year she reads the story, "Night Tree," by Eve Bunting and she and the boys make edible ornaments for the neighborhood animals. The brave the cold and hang them on the cherry tree in our front yard. The boys love this and look forward to it every single year!

Rule:
Keep traditions.

Happy Birthday, Luc!

2010-12-17T16:32:00.000-05:00

Luc is 6! He had a very small dino-mite birthday party - simple but fun. I love you, Luc…

Happy Birthday, little man.

Rule:
Keep it simple.

Dreaming….

2010-12-09T16:53:00.000-05:00

…that is was always this peaceful.

Rule:
Dream

Trimming

2010-12-08T15:05:00.000-05:00

Rule:
Trim

November 365 Project

2010-12-01T14:26:00.001-05:00

I know I have been a total slacker but hope this November video will make up for it. I have just been so busy with my business! My 365 Project is coming to an end. I am so excited!

Rule:
Don't give up.

The Obsession Continues

2010-11-14T07:54:00.001-05:00

On a beautiful November day, Luc decides to explore! He is on the hunt for a large T-Rex. With guide books and all the necessary tools in hand, he sets out to find the big one. These are the days that I never want to forget!

Rule: Let them destroy your backyard!

Favorite Things

2010-11-06T10:11:00.001-04:00

Luc and Beck have had a wonderful week. The boys received the Toy Story 3 DVD and it has been in nonstop play since we bought it on Tuesday…yes, we ran out and bought it the first day of its release.

Luc also got a dinosaur tooth with a recent book purchase. The tooth has been around his neck and will probably stay there until he graduates from paleontology school.

Rule:
Make their day!

October 365 Project

2010-11-01T15:55:00.002-04:00

To Catch You Up

2010-11-01T13:17:00.003-04:00

I finally feel like a professional photographer. I photographed my first paying wedding and my second paying wedding this month.

I was so busy that most nights my children ate cereal for dinner!

Beck decided that he wanted to become a brainiac and actually cries everyday to go to Preschool.

Cooper played his last soccer game of the season! He had an unbelievable season and we are so proud of him for putting forth such wonderful effort.

Cooper also had his first Apple Crisp Experience. I volunteered for two days at his elementary school preparing food for the schools Harvest Dinner. The children plant a garden, harvest the food and then prepare a wonderful dinner. This year's menu: Turkey Vegetable Soup, Zucchini Bread, Mashed Potatoes, Apple Crisp, Homemade Butter and Popcorn (yes, the grew the corn for the popcorn AND NO, they did not raise the Turkeys!)

We had a wonderful Halloween Open House and had a blast. Luc dressed up like a cobweb ghost, Beck like Woody from Toy Story and Cooper was a 50's/60's Greaser!

And of course, I had to play, too! I was a witch…Yes, Dave said, "literally" and that I didn't have to make a stretch for that one!

Whatever?

You guys know, I am never a WITCH!

Rule:
Look Back!

Busted!

2010-10-17T10:16:00.000-04:00

Walked into the little boys room this morning with my camera in hand and this is what I caught. Thank goodness there was a bean bag bed that he jumped into. I swear I am raising monkeys.

Rule:
Raise Monkeys.

Jotting

2010-10-05T18:58:00.001-04:00

I know it has been a while since I sat down and wrote out the mundane details of my life with three little boys. Things are surely changing with Luc starting kindergarten, Beck starting preschool and my business taking off. I seem to not be able to find the time to busy myself with all the particulars of our day to day life. They happen, I smile and then we all go to sleep!

However, there are two funny Lucisms that I must jot down before I forget them.

WEAPONS

Two Saturdays ago, while getting ready to watch the big Bama football game, which by the way, was a nail biter, Luc started yelling at me to hurry up and get down in the den so we could all watch the game together. I walked into the room and he said, almost out of breath, "Mama, they said that the other team has weapons."

I just about fell on the floor, laughing so hard. Weapons! Poor little literal boy! I had to then explain to him about our weapons: Richardson and Ingram!

Breaking Up Is Hard to Do

Dave has been helping out with the boys more than he has in ten years. OK, it is not a lot, but it is actually more than before. Yesterday, he took all the boys to Cooper's soccer practice…yes, I was amazed but very thankful for the gift…I actually had tons of work to complete so a nice quiet house was wonderful.

When they returned home, everyone was upset! Beck started crying, Luc ran to his room and Cooper looked like he lost his best friend. I was all like, "What in the hell happened!"

Dave was all like, "They were bad! So I yelled!"

I am now thinking (to myself) "oh, but this is such an easy job, how could you ever yell."

But instead, I backed ole' Dave up and basically told the boys that they had lost their soccer practice privilege. "From now on, you will not get to go with Dad and Cooper." Yes, more tears happened and I just kept on keeping on. Pretty soon it was over.

Everyone basically dropped it and the incident was never brought up again…until, I was putting the boys to sleep that night.

Luc decided that he needed some extra Mama Love and climbed in bed with me and told me how much he loved me and how pretty I was and that I smelled good…

And then, all of the sudden he said, "Mom, I broke up with Dad."

Balahaaahahahahahwawawahahahaha!

That is all I can say because that was the funniest thing I have ever heard come out of a five year old.

Looks like Luc and I are going steady NOW!

Rule:
Take time to jot down things you don't want to forget!

September 365 Project

2010-09-30T19:22:00.002-04:00

Rule:
Shine!

Another Great Day at the Field

2010-09-25T12:57:00.000-04:00

Coop's team won yet another game today 5-3. Coop scored 3 GOALS! He is a demon on the field. I just love his competitive spirit.

Rule:
SCORE!

All Angles of My Paradise

2010-09-20T17:48:00.002-04:00

Making this trek down this little rock path never gets old. I can sit here all day with my children digging for sea glass, catching crabs, swimming, rock skipping, rock climbing, having lunch, and talking with old friends. The beauty of this spot is that it changes with every new tide. These photos happen to be taken during very low tide!

I love this spot; it is my paradise.

Rule:
Look for your paradise.

Obvious

2010-09-12T18:54:00.001-04:00

Ok, so I know he is my son, and bragging about one's child is not right, but I do need to state the obvious!

This boy loves sports, he has a killer instinct, and he plays with all his heart!

That's it! I will now stop talking about my Son!

Rule:
Play with all your heart!

Learning to Let Go!

2010-09-09T10:16:00.001-04:00

Today, for the first time, all of my boys went to school. The following photos document a moment that I hope to never forget. It was Luc's first day of kindergarten and Beck's first day of pre-school.

Sure, there were tears! But boy are they all ready! I can't wait to eat dinner tonight and listen to all their adventures!

Rule:
Let GO!

Listening to Fashion

2010-09-07T22:49:00.002-04:00

This summer, Cooper and Luc bought some sunglasses from the Club Fair. Cooper bought the traditional aviator glasses: a style of sunglasses with thin metal frames and large lenses.

Luc bought a pair of wayfarers glasses: a style of glasses with a distinctive 1950's trapezoidal frame, flanked by sturdy arms.

They both look so cute wearing their respective glasses but that is not the reason for this post. This post is really about listening.

Ok, I have decided that my children do in fact listen to what I say. OK, they only half listen to what I say and sometimes they get just a fraction of what of say. BUT. THEY. DO. HEAR. ME.

Here is Cooper with his "Aviators"

And here is Luc in his "Wayfarers"

So you get the idea. They each have very distinct looking sunglasses.

On with the story...

About a week after the fair, I told Cooper that I loved his "Aviators"! He was all like, "what are aviators?" I had to go into a long monologue about the glasses and why they are called aviators…blah, blah, blah, blah…I made up some crazy stuff and really pretended that I knew. I think I mentioned Tom Cruise.

Anyway, Luc was listening, ok, only half listening, ok, he got a fraction of what I said... because a couple of days later, he asked me, "Mom, do you like my "RADIATORS"!

I said, "yes, those are some great looking radiators!"

So now, I keep telling Luc to get his radiators and Cooper keeps yelling at me…

"MOM, it is "AVIATORS"!

I just yell back, "Aviators, Radiators, Alligators ~ who cares, both you guys know how to rock them and that is really what counts!"

Rule:
Rock some sunglasses.

The Many Faces

2010-09-02T14:23:00.001-04:00

I am always amazed at how different my children can look in every photo I take. The three photos that follow are a prime example. Beck looks so different in all three but boy does his personality shine through. He is a real ham.

What cracks me up the most is that he has finally started posing. I guess with a camera in his face 24/7, he had to learn.

Rule:
Strike a pose.

Beginnings

2010-09-01T09:38:00.001-04:00

Today for the fifth year in a row, we have walked Cooper to school and have documented the start of fall with our walk to school photographs! We are usually in sweatshirts but today, we were all hot and sweaty! It is HOT!

Next week, I will be walking my Luc to kindergarten! Another adventure awaits and I hope this adventure includes long pants and a sweatshirt!

Oh, how time flies.

Rule:
Document.

August 365

2010-08-31T19:13:00.003-04:00

Rule:
Use your two hands!

Quiet Time

2010-08-19T16:05:00.000-04:00

Nice and tired, and quiet, and still after a wonderful afternoon at the beach.

I love it when they are so worn out that they actually watch a movie! PEACE!

PS…I am usually right beside them but my mouth is open and I am snoring.

Rule:
Make them have quiet time.

Wishes

2010-08-18T16:11:00.002-04:00

The two little boys love to blow any type of fluffy floating seed pods and make wishes. They always ask me to do the same. I always close my eyes, blow really hard and watch the seed pods fill the air. But do you know what?

My wish...

…has already come true!

Rule:
Make a wish.

Yard Sale

2010-08-17T13:55:00.000-04:00

Cooper decided that it was time for the little boys to clean their room so he posted a Yard Sale sign on their door. As you all know, my boys love Toy Story and when the sign when up it was time for them to get busy.

They actually packed toys away because they did not want them to be included in the yard sale. The toys are now in plastic bags in my basement.

What are the chances that they forget what they packed! Thanks, Cooper!

Rule:
Pack away for a rainy day!

The Fairies Are Coming

2010-08-16T15:39:00.002-04:00

The boys and I have waited all summer to create a fairy village. Waited, you ask? Yes, waited. I decided that when it was foggy and drizzly we would gather our found in nature items and start to make the houses. We finally got our chance last week. It was actually the first none beach day of the entire summer. I can't shout loud enough, "Thank you, Thank you, Thank you, mother nature for this glorious summer weather!

Anyway, the fairy making weather was perfect, right down to the fog that was rolling through my backyard.

The boys and I enlisted the help of our family and friends who were visiting the island. We made a day of it!

Every morning since our houses were erected, Luc runs outside to see if he has had any visitors. He is really going to poop his pants when he finds a little clothes line, made by the visiting fairies, full of little tiny clothes! Oh, how I love to add magic to my boys lives!

Rule:
Build!

Screwed

2010-08-05T13:01:00.000-04:00

Me, not him!

Yeah, that is my husband with two broken arms. Well, actually, he has one broken arm and a broken hand.

Anyone want to guess how this happened? No, I did not take him down! Would love to hear any theories. I have my own but must go by what he is telling the insurance company!

Rule:
Guess?

Home

2010-08-05T12:47:00.002-04:00

I recently traveled back to Alabama, sans husband and little boys, for my Meme's funeral. Yes, it was a very sad time but it was also a celebration of friends, family and my grandmother's wonderful life.

I enjoyed being at home - besides the HEAT, and the three little girls pictured below, well let's just say…

I miss their little guts and wish that I could see them everyday.

Oh, and yes, I know my Mom looks like my sister! We get that a lot.

Rule:
Go Home and tell stories!

July 2010, 365 Project

2010-08-03T12:32:00.002-04:00

If I wasn't by your side
I'd never be satisfied
Nothin' would feel just right
If I wasn't by your side

Rule:
Make Plans!

Dreams Do Come True!

2010-07-09T11:38:00.000-04:00

This is Cooper at the MLL All-Star Game. He was a Warrior VIP and had unbelievable access to all the players. He even got to take a shot on goal! He was able to meet some of his favorite players and get all of their autographs on his new lacrosse jersey.

He has not stopped smiling all morning.

Rule:
Keep Dreaming ~ They do come TRUE!

Summer

2010-07-07T10:06:00.001-04:00

Just thought I would give you all a quick update on our summer. Remember, I said quick!

WE ARE HAVING A FABULOUS SUMMER!

How was that for quick? Here are a couple photos from our days spent on the beach, evenings spent with friends and everything in between.

Rule:
Get out and make the best of your summer!

June 2010, 365 Project

2010-07-01T14:30:00.004-04:00

This way became my journey,

this day ends together, Far and Away.

This day ends together, Far and Away.

Far and Away.

Rule:
No day, no night, no moment, can hold me back from trying.

Alone

2010-06-17T22:27:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, I kissed my boys good-bye and hopped the ferry back into town. I stayed at home for the first time in 9 years ~ ALONE! I would be lying if I said that I hated it. The truth is that I really enjoyed some quiet time. I had several photo shoots and worked the entire day and night. Seriously, I worked until 11:00pm and then got up this morning and worked all day again. I didn't even eat lunch until 5:30pm! My dreams of lounging were replaced by my need to stay busy. I just could not sit still. I honestly don't think I know how to slow down. Finally at 8:00pm, I decided to stop working and just sit on the couch and watch a movie ALONE!

It made me sad. I missed my boys! I was fine when I was busy working and not getting interrupted but once I just stopped and sat ~ I was miserable. Yes, I needed a break from the commotion but realized that I am at my best when I have my three wild, loud, needy, precious little boys around me.

I love you boys and Mommy will see you tomorrow. xxooxxoo

Rule:
Think before you make a wish!

Last Day of Third Grade

2010-06-15T11:14:00.000-04:00

I love this boy! He makes being a parent the best job in the world.

Rule:
Get ready for summer.

The End!

2010-06-12T20:42:00.002-04:00

Today, Cooper played his last lacrosse game of the season. He ended the season with 40+ goals! I am so sad to see it end, as I really enjoy watching this group of boys play!

Now, lacrosse summer camp!

Rule:
Look forward.

Have You Ever Seen Shrek?

2010-06-11T15:47:00.000-04:00

If you have then you will get this…

…Beck reminds me of Puss in Boots!

Rule:
Don't let the eyes fool you.

Mr. Independent!

2010-06-11T15:19:00.002-04:00

Luc helped himself to a nice piece of freshly made banana bread. No, I wasn't mad, in fact, I was glad he didn't use a knife!

Rule:
Teach them to be independent.

Happy 3rd Birthday, Beck!

2010-06-08T09:07:00.001-04:00

Beck, may you always know just how very special you are to all of us. You will always be Baby Beck to us! We love you, Happy Birthday!

Rule:
Celebrate!

May 2010, 365 Project

2010-06-06T19:22:00.001-04:00

I am still participating in the 365 Project. Here is the video for May!

Rule:
Don't Quit!

Coming to an End

2010-06-05T09:00:00.000-04:00

Cooper had 5 lacrosse games yesterday. Yes, 5! He played from 9am till 5pm and he got up this morning to go watch his dad play lacrosse.

I am getting very sad that we only have one more weekend left in the season. I have enjoyed watching this group of boys play. They play with all their hearts.

Rule:
Support!

Kindergarten Bound

2010-05-27T17:02:00.001-04:00

My middle boy graduated from Pre-K today. With tears in my eyes and a very heavy heart, I snapped these photos. I am very proud of his pre-school years and look forward to his next 13 years of learning. I know that he is going to be one smart cookie!

I love you, Luc and I am so very proud of you.

Rule:
Try not to be sad.

The Serious Side of Good-lookin'!

2010-05-26T17:23:00.003-04:00

I think that the summer makes my boys even more good-lookin'.

There, I said it…"I have three good-lookin' boys!"

The lighting this time of year can be harsh but for some reason I think it is perfect, as it shows off the serious side of my three little men!

Grab a spoon; they are delicious!

Rule:
Brag!

OK, I Lied!

2010-05-25T16:13:00.001-04:00

Blog, I just can't quit you.

Rule:
Play redneck water park! All you need is a hose.