Kids, Food, Friends, Wine &, The Silliness That Is Our Lives

One Down, Nine To Go

2012-01-10T09:38:00.000-05:00

It went like this.....the kids called my mom to see if they could come over on Saturday evening to watch the "Wipeout"she recorded. She said sure and she would pick them up around 5p. A little after 5p, she arrives and I walk the kids to the car to kiss them and make sure they got buckled in and my mom turned to them and asked them if they wanted to sleep over. They were so suprised (as was I since they have only stayed at her house one other night) and excited. So I ran in the house to pack a bag and to tell Bill we didn't have to rush to get out to dinner and back in a couple of hours and to start thinking of where we wanted to go.....all the while I was thinking, SOHO, SOHO, SOHO!

A little backstory about Nolan Konkoski, the owner and chef of SOHO. When Momocho first opened in 2006, Bill and I started going there often. We enjoyed sitting at the two-seater chef's counter and got to know owner and chef, Eric Williams pretty quickly. If you've not been to Momocho (why the hell not?) the kitchen is the size of a postage stamp (no joke), so the chef is about a foot in front of you. The chefs stand basically shoulder to shoulder and turn out the best Mod Mex you will EVER taste. The other chef was a super quiet, very serious looking guy named Nolan Konkoski. Little by little we got to him and he even cracked a smile or two ;)

Our first meal dining out after finding out we were having a boy and girl was at Momocho. Nolan and Eric were some of the first people to know and they joked about names. Nolan and Erica (Nolan's choice) and Eric and Nolina (Eric's choice.) On the way home we started talking about the good time we had joking around with them and the names came up. We already knew the girl would be Reagan, it was a name Bill really wanted for either a boy or a girl, I only liked it for a girl so that was settled. There was the issue of the other little bean growing quickly who was going to need a name. We wanted something that complimented Reagan, looked similar, and had a similar origin (Welsh.) That was when it really hit us; Nolan really was the perfect boys name. So I guess Nolan K. really does have his own (well, not HIS own) namesake.

Back to the original story.... I called SOHO to make a ressie and we were able to get in. When we arrived we settled on drinks, a beer for Bill and a "Savannah" for me along with BBQ and Pimento Cheese Dip. One sip of that Savannah and I was hooked. I need to figure it out so that can be the house drink on our next OBX trip. It was tea-infused vodka, hibiscus syrup, lemonade and something else. SO GOOD.

We wanted to try everything on the menu, it all sounded delish. We settled on the Crawfish & Crab Fritters and a side of Deviled Eggs for another app course.I think Bill was surprised I ate one whole fritter. My intention was to just have a bite, but I couldn't stop at just one.

For dinner, Bill chose the Charred Ribeye Steak: Fried egg, fingerling-spinach hash, pickled Vidalias, Tabasco Hollandaise.I'm not a lover of med-rare meat, but I loved the fingerling-spinach hash served over the steak. Mixed with the egg yolk it was sinful. Bill loved the ribeye and said as much as he wants to try everything on the menu, he'd probably order this one agian and again. I had the Dixie Cheese Steak Po'Boy: Brisket, collards beer-cheese fondue, hot sauce. The texture of it was more pot roastish, but that was OK for me. The collards are what knocks this po'boy out of the house! We might have to steal this idea for our next BBQ (of course, Nolan, Molly and Sophie are invited!)

As if we weren't stuffed enough, we managed to finish off an order of Crispy Beignets Dark chocolate, blackberry jam. Holy, sweet hushpuppies of goodness!

A nice surprise of the evening was having a round of drinks bought for us. We didn't know who bought them until we were just leaving. Those J. Ross' sure are sneaky. They phoned in a round on them!

I'm so glad I got to cross SOHO off my "Must Try 2012" list, but I'm sure it is not going to be our only visit.

10 restaurants I want to try this year:

1. ~~SOHO~~
2. L'Albatros
3. Spice Kitchen & Bar
4. Sun Luck Garden
5. Fat Casual BBQ
6. Bac
7. Crop Bistro
8. Deagan's Kitchen
9. Pura Vida
10. Pranzo

10 Things

2012-01-06T16:32:00.001-05:00

I don't make resolutions. I don't like setting myself up for failure. This year I decided I would create some lists of things I'd like to accomplish. Things that I currently enjoy, but the things on the list will push me out of my comfort zone a bit. We eat out alot, but we tend to fall back on our favorites instead of venturing out to try new ones. I would go to Momocho for every meal if I could and Bill's fave is Lolita. There are SO many great places in Cleveland to try, so here goes....

10 restaurants I want to try this year:

1. SOHO
2. L'Albatros
3. Spice Kitchen & Bar
4. Sun Luck Garden
5. Fat Casual BBQ
6. Bac
7. Crop Bistro
8. Deagan's Kitchen
9. Pura Vida
10. Pranzo

First 5/Last 5

2012-01-01T15:58:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year from The Pchaks!

I did this last year, so I thought I'd carry it on this year.

The first 5 pictures I took in 2011

(Yes, Uncle John has Reagan's socks on his ears!)

And the last 5 pictures I took in 2011

I lost count of how many there were in between, but have enjoyed every single snap!

Yes, Virginia, There Is A Santa Claus

2011-12-23T23:07:00.000-05:00

Last year, A fellow MoM (mother of multiples) posted about taking her kids to Tower City to visit "Kris Kringles Inventionasium" and what a fun time it was for the whole family. I filed it away in my vault for this year and as soon as the season rolled around, I purchased tickets for the day before Christmas Eve.

When we arrived at Tower City, I was pleasantly surprised to see it hustling and bustling and not the ghost town it has been in past years. After walking around all the levels and checking out some real fancy suits and shoes, we headed downstairs to the area where all the activity was taking place.

Back in the 80's when Higbee's Department store was still around they had the Twigbee shop for little kids to go shopping without their parents. There was also the famous "Twigbee Bear", which I had a stuffed version of and LOVED. Higbee's is long gone, but they brought back the shop and the bear mascot so we decided to let the kids do some shopping for Bill and I on their own. I filled out the papers with the max they could spend ($20 total) and off they went. Bill and I settled down in front of a really cool show about the history of the Terminal Tower and in a flash they were done shopping. I'm really looking forward to the gifts, as they shopped in about 3 minutes the total came to $7 for both gifts. They wrap them for the kids and they are already placed under our tree.

On to the Iventionasium. I had no idea what to expect so it was total sensory overload when you first walk in. Think Willy Wonka's Chocolate Factory overload. It was AWESOME! The colors, decorations, characters, it was all so cool. The kids were a little freaked out, but Nolan warmed right up after getting his lab coat on. Reagan took a bit longer, but in the end she came around just fine.

They stopped at several stations to do activities, drawing on chalkboard walls, create a crazy puppet, make snow, and build a toy to present to Kris Kringle.

After all that we were left in the waiting area for the private family visit with Kris Kringle. It was a bit of a wait and when I noticed a family that arrived after us get their turn, I approached the elf and told him I just wanted to make sure we didn't lost in the shuffle (no joke, because more papers than a deck of cards.)

He leaned in and whispered in my ear, "You are with Nolan, right?"

Um. Yes. He is my son.

"OK, you are having a very special visit with Kris Kringle in his super secret private office through the pink door behind you." ( The door I hadn't seen anyone go in or out of during the whole time we were there.) "When I put my finger up to my nose and jingle my bell three times, then you know to go to the door."

Um. OK.

So we waited a few more minutes and in the meantime my imagination was working in overdrive, what if there was a great glass elevator behind door #2 or better yet some fizzy lifting drink. Hell yeah, I'm going to drink it!

Finally "Boysenberry the Elf'" lay a finger to his nose and jingled. He opened the private door for us and the kids gasped and smiled at the awesomeness of being in Kris Kringles private office.

So did I, because there sitting on an ottoman in front of me WAS SOMEONE I KNEW, BUT NEVER KNEW HE WAS SANTA.

Sure it was always joked that he SHOULD be Santa. He has the white beard and he is short and round. I'd met him several times through our friends Andrew and Catherine when they lived in Cleveland. I haven't seen him in more than 5 years and he has never met our kids. Maybe everyone else except Bill and I knew he was Santa, who knows and who cares because it would have ruined the surprise I felt.

It was a truly magic moment that brought tears to my eyes.

I don't know if it was luck of the draw that we got diverted to door #2 or if there is a roster that the Santa's look over everyday and request to see (or not see) certain families. What I do know is that it was the most magical moment of Christmas that I have experienced as an adult.

So, thank you Santa for creating that special moment for our family. It will never be forgotten.

After our visit, we were all starvin' marvins, so we headed down Euclid Ave. to Noodlecat. It was the first visit for all us and it was so fun. Nolan ate Ramen like a college kid on a bender and Bill and I ate more steamed buns than humanly possible.

We needed to walk off all that dinner, so we took a stroll around Public Square to look at the lights. It produced one of my favorite pictures of the holiday season.

Pretty darn perfect day if you ask me.

From The Mouth Of Nolan

2011-12-05T20:49:00.000-05:00

You know the feeling.... your kid says or does something that is borderline obnoxious and funny at the same time and you are stuck between using the moment to discipline your child or just bust out laughing. We had one of those moments the other night at Trader Jacks, our favorite local restaurant where our favorite waitress in the whole world, Alyssa, works.

The kids have known (and loved) Alyssa since they were being lugging into the place in their snap & go car seats. They literally tackle Alyssa with their hugs now. She has taught them how to run credit cards and they have their own TJ's name tags.

Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, was pretty quiet at the restaurant, so Alyssa had some extra time to hang out and talk. She crouched down at the end of the table, next to Nolan to talk. Somehow the topic of how big the kids were when they where born came up. Nolan replied that they were about 5 pounds, which is close. He was 6lbs and Reagan was 5 lbs, 6ozs.

I told Nolan to tell his gal-pal what I used to call them when they were first born. He told her "little sacks of sugar."

And then "The Incident" happened.

He sheepishly smiled and said, "You know what? I like these sacks of sugar" as he reached up and patted her amble bossom.

OMG, you guys!!!!

She laughed. Bill was mortified. I was stuck in the middle.

Like Father....

2011-11-17T09:53:00.000-05:00

This never ceases to make me smile :)

Move Over Walter Payton, There's A New Sweetness In Town

2011-10-05T17:13:00.003-04:00

Conversation at story time today regarding the ending of a book showed the kids finding a treasure and becoming "rich."

Nolan: Momma, what does rich mean?

Me: It means having a lot of money to do anything you want. It also means having lots of love in your life to make your heart full.

Nolan: I'm rich.

Me: You are?

Nolan: I'm rich because you're my mom and I love you.

Me: < wiping tears>

A Hello In The Clouds

2011-09-28T09:42:00.000-04:00

So, it has been a month since I posted in our little family blog. A month spent swimming, going to amusement parks, playing in the sandbox, taking lots of senior pictures, and preparing for our first BIG family vacation.

We took the kids to Washington D.C. for a couple of days and then on to the Outer Banks, NC. The moment our feet hit the sand in the OBX, we were in love and are already talking about next year.

On the way home from the OBX, we stopped in Uniontown, PA to visit my Grandparents grave. It was an emotional ride once we crossed over from Maryland. Lots of memories flooded my mind. As I told the kids stories about going to Laurel Caverns or taking Pappy on rides up the mountain to get fudge for my twin cousins, I got teary-eyed. The thought that my Granny Pike would have had such a great time with my kids made me sad. We went right through town and I saw what used to be the bowling alley, the Gallatin Bank, the Medicine Shoppe, and the Long John Silvers that has a huge treasure chest for kids to pick out of. Things and places I haven't thought about in a long time.

As we were driving in the mountains, I looked into the sky and saw the smallest sliver of a rainbow. It has not rained at all, so I'd like to think this was Granny Pike's way of saying "Whoopie! You are here!"

The Party Crasher

2011-08-28T23:17:00.000-04:00

Nolan is the typical boy. Loves firetrucks, police cars, tractors, etc. BUT his favorite truck of all times is the airport crash truck.

When one pulled up at touch-a-truck this past weekend, he was thrilled.

It seemed that they were going to let the kids climb up the ladder to the roof of the crash truck. I thought this was a little dangerous, but my kids hoped into line behind about 6 other kids. Turns out those kids were that particular fireman's family and he was giving them a little extra special treat. I started to steer Reagan away by the shoulders and it was then that I see Nolan's little butt being helped up the stairs.

Somehow, they thought he was "with" the family. The little shit wormed his way onto the top of the crash truck!

See, I told you he loves the crash truck!

The Missing Martian

2011-08-03T16:43:00.000-04:00

My Dad didn’t much care for crowds so I don’t think he would have done many adventures with the twinadoes and I. (I totally know the three of them would have been fishing buddies at Gilson Park though.) There has never been a time where we’ve been out and about and I got to thinking, “Gee, my Dad would have had fun with his Grandkids here.”

Until today.

The twinadoes and I were putting our Great Lakes Science Center membership to good use today and included were tickets to a special exhibit, “Facing Mars.” When you go into the exhibit you have to choose which gate to go through by answered the question, “Do you want to travel to Mars?”

Bingo.

Right up my Dad’s alley. He enjoyed nothing more than sitting in his backyard on a Saturday night, smoking a stogie and drinking a beer. All the while staring up into the night sky and pondered what and who was out there.

He was a trekkie. His favorite t-shirt said "Beam Me Up Scotty."

I can imagine, as a child, his life’s ambition was to be an astronaut. (Sad to say I don’t really know the answer to this question.)

He would have loved this exhibit.

I actually got choked up and tears welled in my eyes because I could just imagine the three of them going from station to station learning about life on Mars; laughing when they did the “Mars Hands” and the “Mars Dust Storm” and him comforting them when they got afraid in the dark during the “Can You Last Two Minutes On Mars” part.

Yep. That day they would have been three peas in an outer space pod.

The Final Draw

2011-07-26T21:51:00.000-04:00

I got a little tricky and took Nolan in for his bloodwork a day early. The waiting is always so torturous for me and his test was scheduled for Wednesday, July 27, which is my birthday. I just didn't want that day to be filled with aniexty (not that my birthday is a big deal anymore. I'm not acknowledging them after this year, so maybe this should have been a big one, huh?)

Anyway....back to our super platelet maker. His count today was 347,000 which is a slight increase from the last draw. The nurse then said, "well, this is your lucky day. NO MORE BLOOD DRAWS!"

No birthday gift could ever top that deep breath I was finally able to take when I hung up the phone.

Not all kids or adults are as lucky as Nolan and ITP becomes a chronic disease requiring treatment when platelet counts drop to levels that could cause internal bleeding. The treatments all have side effects and the surgical removal of the spleen is often a final step.

I am so thankful we only had to explore two treatment options. They both involved antibodies extracted from the plasma of THOUSANDS of blood donors. So thank you to those thousands of donors that help save people's lives on a daily basis.

Thank you to several of my friends that donated in the weeks after Nolan was first hospitalized. That meant a lot to me.

If you don't already donate, please consider stopping the next time you see a Red Cross blood drive. You never know who you may help!

Every drop really does count.

MULTX

2011-07-07T08:24:00.000-04:00

I haven't said too much on this blog about my photography company, multipleXposure photography, but I had several sessions in the last month that make me smile. I can't explain how much I enjoy doing this. Taking the pictures, editing the pictures, and seeing them in print is so much fun for me. I think I finally understand what it is like to LOVE your job.

So, if you need some pictures give me a holla.

Stable

2011-06-29T22:40:00.000-04:00

Today was the first time the hemotologist mentioned the word "stable" in regards to Nolan. "Holding his own" was another one.

His count was 339,000; a slight rise from last week. He is 6 weeks post WINRHO treatment. By now there would most likely be a drop-off. The medication is out of his system and his body is doing what it needs to do. With that said, ITP is its own beast and that could change tomorrow, but we are hopeful Nolan is not going to be "chronic ITP" and this was a one time ordeal.

We are hopeful he is in that 80% this time.

Keep those platelets going, buddy. "To infinity and beyond!"

The Safety Dance

2011-06-18T23:11:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite childhood memories was going to Safety Town. It was an actual town built in a fenced in area of the elementary school playground. I remember feeling so important because the mayor (Morris Becker, if you grew up in Eastlake) came and gave us our certificates.

The twinadoes did Mentor's Safety Town recently. Sadly, our fair city no longer has programs like this due to poor money decisions in the 1990's.

They seem to have enjoyed themselves and were excited to go every morning. There were no tears or prolonged goodbye's, just a quick kiss and off they went. I guess I should be happy they are so well-adjusted, huh?

On Day One, they were sitting in the classroom while the teacher explained some things to the parents. I looked over at my boy and this was his look. Total boredom. I suppose this will be his standard look all through school. He wanted out of that classroom and on the town to ride the big wheels we had seen when walking in.

Day 1: Traffic Safety/Water Safety

Day 2: Fire Safety/Poison

Day 3: Police/Bike Safety

Day 4: Bus Safety/Stranger Danger

Day 5: Graduation

Drumroll Please....

2011-06-15T16:51:00.000-04:00

329,000 and blood draws moved to every other week!!!

I know after (too) much research that nothing is predictable with ITP and the bottom can fall out at any time, but I've just got to keep hoping that isn't going to happen and he is on the road to recovery.

He feels fine, he is acting fine, he certainly looks fine.

Again (and again and again) thank you for all your thoughts, prayers, and cards. It means a lot to Bill and I.

214,000

2011-06-09T10:08:00.000-04:00

Yesterday's count was 214,000! Maybe Nolan's body is finally doing what it needs to do instead of eating platelets faster than he could make them. Only next week's blood draw will tell, but this little increase with no treatment is a good sign.

So, keep doing what you are doing and hopefully Nolan's body will do the same.

Here Come The Butterflies

2011-06-06T08:41:00.000-04:00

For Easter, Reagan got the butterfly habitat she was so desperately wanting.

About 2 weeks ago, the larva arrived and they set up house. It was amazing how quickly they grew and then after about a week, they climbed to the top of the jar they had come in and turned into chrysalids.

They have just been hanging around on the side of the habitat for another week and yesterday I noticed one was breaking through. It is an interesting process to watch. I remember doing this in first grade as our final project for the year. However, I do not remember there being blood when the butterfly emerges.

This morning I noticed another butterfly trying to break free. We took a break from our morning chores (emptying the dishwasher for me; watching Curious George for the twinadoes) to watch.

Yesterdays butterfly started crawling up the side of the habitat and we watched the other one flap its wing trying to break free. Amazing.

I know you are surprised, but I had my camera. Nolan went to get his, of course, it was nowhere to be found. (Nolan has trouble putting this back where they belong. Sure, he picks up his mess, but who knows where it goes.)

Reagan found hers and starting taking pictures and asking me if she "had the right angle". Meanwhile, Nolan starts this radio announcer type voice, saying, "folks, we are watching it as it happens!"

Just another morning at our house.

Prayer Pics For Nolan

2011-06-04T17:17:00.001-04:00

My friend, Tonia in Jupiter, FL sent these pictures to me. They are made from palm fronds.

They came at a moment when I needed them most, just after finding out Nolan's counts had dropped this past week.

So, Tonia, thank you!

Long Weekend

2011-05-31T15:17:00.000-04:00

What a glorious weekend we had. Not too much rain, got some things accomplished, and spent time with friends.

Tomorrow is blood work day, so I'll be back to being on pins & needles.

Ready to ride the rails with Thomas The Tank Engine.

Looking out for "alligators" since it was so swampy.

ready to party at winking lizard luau.

My boys.

Helping Uncle Sam get the fire goin' for smores.

Bounce & Slide

Nonny & Grandpa's 30th Anniversary

The best cupcakes ever. Salty Caramel is my fave :)

Some friends didn't have as good a weekend as we did. Our friend, Bob, lost his mom and my friend, Mary's mom is in the hospital. If you have a good thought to spare for them, please do. Their moms are a very important part of their lives and this is a difficult time for both of them. It is hard to see your friends hurting when there isn't much you can do.

A Kid Is A Kid Is A Kid....

2011-05-26T16:17:00.001-04:00

So this blog is usually about my kids, but today I'm going to talk about three other kids:

Monika Martic, Alex Skrabski & Kayla McCauley--They are high school kids doing college course work and work study through Ohio College Tech Prep.

I've never met these kids, but my husband is mentoring them through his work, Avery Dennison. He has done this for several years and this year these hardworking kids have managed to win the regional & state competetion for the mobile app they designed and can now move on to 2011 SkillsUSA National Leadership competition.

Or can they?

They expected to receive more financial assistance from their high school, but they are not. Avery has kicked in everything they can and a couple of other companies have kicked in some cash, but they are still about $3,000 short of their goal.

This blog explains the project.

They might not be my kids, but they are someone elses hardworking kids and they deserve this chance to shine.

If you can spare a few dollars and help them out, please donate here.

Look at it as an investment in all of our futures!

Thank you!

Going Up

2011-05-25T22:21:00.000-04:00

Nolan's platelet count was 369,000 today. That is awesome news!
Raegan, Nolan's nurse, (ironic, huh) warned me to not get too excited as they could still fall, but we'll take this victory and try not to think about it for one week when he has the next blood draw.

I still can't help feel like I need to hold him back from being rough and tumble with his sister and friends. I've told him NO so many times when he asks to do things that it has become my standard answer. He has taken it all very well and, for the most part, not done the things I've told him to do. His gestapo sister has also helped keep him in line. They were playing at the neighbors (diagonally behind us) and I was sitting on our deck and I could hear her telling Nolan, "remember you are not allowed to bounce in the trampoline."

We will just keep doing quiet things, like visit our animal friends at the zoo, play at the Botanical Garden, and visit all the local libraries, while slowly working back in the other stuff.

A Breath

2011-05-20T16:30:00.000-04:00

Nolan's count on 5/20/10 was 203,000! That is a great number and in the normal range. His little body just has to keep producing those platelets and not eating them up. He has a blood draw next Wednesday, so we have a few days to catch our breath until then.

Keep those prayers coming!

Nolan got a message from Sacramento, CA for his "Prayer Pics For Nolan" from my friend Nancy

And Today's Number Is....

2011-05-18T15:56:00.000-04:00

Platelet count for today 67,000. Normal is 150,000-450,000.

Before the treatment yesterday, they were 23,000. At that number they restrict kids from anything that could cause a bruise or internal bleeding. No trampoline, no bike riding, no bouncing on the bed, etc. I've even read that doctors have taken away kids rocking chairs when they go below 20,000. (What made that story even harder to swallow was that the child had autism and that was his comfort mechanism.)

Keep the prayers and thoughts coming that these #'s continue to rise and stay there.

They consider anything over 50,000 out of the danger zone for serious (and internal) bleeds, so that takes a little weight from my shoulders for this moment.

He sure doesn't look or act sick, does he?

Here is another "Prayer Pic for Nolan" from my friend, Samantha. She and I were co-workers and were pregnant together.

I can't say it enough, but we are so thankful for everyone's thoughts and prayers. Friends have added him to large prayer groups, Reagan told the lady parked next to us at Aldi about him today and she said she would pray for him, and all the virtual hugs and thoughts are a comfort. As our friend, Diane, who brought us a great quiche and two pies for dinner (thanks again Diane!), said last night, "how could he not get better with all these people praying for him!"

It is hard for me, as his mom, to not focus on the negative of the research I've been doing (google is your friend....sometimes!) . It is the hardest thing you have to do when you have to watch your child suffer and you can't do a darn thing about it.

Today's rise is a step towards victory, but there is still a long way to go, and as we've learned quickly, it is a roller coaster.

Nolan Update

2011-05-17T15:49:00.002-04:00

I took Nolan to the hemotology clinic at CCF (which is also the children's oncology clinic) this morning. The plan was to be seen and treated there instead of being admitted to the hospital as long as I was comfortable taking him home.

the numbing cream was put on his ridiculously bruised arms, I met with the doctor and fellow who will be on Nolan's case. Of course, there will be no immediate answers. This could resolve in a few weeks, months or never. It's just wait and see and we all know how patient I am.

They decided since the IVIG didn't work as they hoped, that we would try a new medicine, WINRHO. Two blown veins and three sticks later, the IV was finally in. It was terrible. My heart actually hurt for him. The transfusion took a lot less time than the IVIG, 20 minutes as compared to 4 hours, so I was thankful for that. We are home now, but have to go back in tomorrow for a blood draw.

Today's experience was way more traumatic than the ER/ambulance/hospital stay for both Nolan and I. The blown veins were painful for him and hard for me as his parent to watch him be poked over and over with no success.

The reality has set in that this is something that is going to affect our lives for the indefinite future and severly limit the activities Nolan (and therefore Reagan) will be able to do.

Once again, your thoughts and prayers are appeciated by us all. We are lucky to have so many caring people in our lives.

Today's Prayer Pics For Nolan....And He Needs Them

2011-05-16T21:41:00.000-04:00

Nolan's platelet count dropped to 18,000 so it is back to the hospital for him on Tuesday morning for another round of IVIG. Of course, he couldn't be in the 90% that only need 1 round and are fine. :(

As I posted yesterday, my friend Ashley started a "Prayer Pics For Nolan" campaign and we got some really cool ones today. Thanks again, Ashley! It is heartwarming to know that people took the time out of their day to think of my little guy (and his twin sis, too.)

The Zahn family- Clearwater FL.

The Lin Family Chesterland, OH

Mercer Babies San Diego, CA

The Augustine Family Eastlake, OH

Eadon Family, Cleveland OH

Fatima Gomez- Catalina Island, CA

(I would really like to visit Fatima and thank her in person, beautiful, right?!)

Thank you everyone that has posted messages on facebook and called us. We all appreicate it very much.

Prayer Pics for Nolan

2011-05-15T21:08:00.001-04:00

I received an email from my friend, Ashley, today. It made me cry until Nolan came along and saw his name on the computer and thought it was really "cool beans."

It touched me deeply, that even though Ash is far away and has way more than enough on her plate (she is a Navy Wife and currently a single parent to two little ones while her hubby is off keeping us safe and catching the bads guys while aboard the USS Vinson), she is still thinking about my little boy.

Here is the email.....

"So I read this blog a while back that this lady wrote, and her baby was sick. She asked her readers to say prayers, and as evidence that they were listening they took pictures of the babies name in cool places. She ended up getting pics of his name by the Eiffel Tower, at the beach, ect. ect.

So since I can't do anything else to help out- I am started "Prayer Pics for Nolan." (and of course for Reagan too.)

Here are ours- sidewalk chalk.

Prayers headed your way from San Diego. I think you should spread the word ;)
Good luck with everything. Thanks for keeping me updated."

So, if anyone is inclined, send me a picture and where it was taken and I will post it.

I know so many people have us in their thoughts already and for that, our family is thankful. Nolan's had a few challenges in his short life already and this is yet another one we will tackle together; with the thoughts and prayers of our friends and family holding us up.

Blog Goes Up, Blog Goes Down....Just Like Platelet Counts

2011-05-13T21:54:00.000-04:00

Just to keep the fam/friends not on facebook up-to-date (sorry it wasn't sooner, blogger has been down for almost 2 days).....

We got a call on Wednesday that Nolan's counts were up to 69,000. A nice jump from 37,000. He was still not allowed to be "normal" though and we were told once his counts get over 100,000 then he can go back to being rough and tumble with no worries for internal bleeding. They told me to make an appt with our primary doc and have his levels rechecked in one week. As soon as we hung up, I got that appt. scheduled.

Thursday rolled around and I got a call from the Cleveland Clinic that they want to monitor Nolan a bit more closelyand had assigned a hemotologist to him (my guess is because of his cranio surgery, but no one is telling me that.) They wanted him to get bloodwork on Friday to check the count.

I went about my day on Friday thinking they were going to call back and tell me Nolan could go back to riding his bike and bouncing on the trampoline. That was not the case. When they called back at 3p with the results, his platelet count dropped to 48,000.

What does this mean? More bloodwork on Monday. If the numbers are down again then he will be readmitted to CCF.

This is one roller coaster I don't want my boy to be on.

He seems outwardly fine. He doesn't complain about anything and wants to do all the things he is not allowed. It is so hard to keep him down!

Full Circle

2011-05-10T22:20:00.000-04:00

So I never imagined I'd spent another May 10th in a hospital. The last one was pretty eventful and certainly could never be topped.

But, as fate would have it, there we were in the wee hours of May 10 back in a hospital.

We were missing one. And missing her a lot. When Nolan's night nurse came in for his 4am vitals, she wished him a Happy Birthday and he said, "Yeah, and its my sister, Reagan's birthday too. She is home with Dad. I miss her." My gosh, that boy knows how to get to me.

Nolan was diagosed with Immune thrombocytopenic purpura; ITP. Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura is a bleeding disorder in which the immune system destroys platelets, which are necessary for normal blood clotting. Persons with the disease have too few platelets in the blood.

It was looking like we would spending the whole day (and another night) in the hospital, in fact Miss Sarah from "Child Life" came by to plan a birthday party for the twinadoes, but when that news came down that Nolan had responded so well to the first IVIG infusion that he would not need another and we could go home!

They waited for Reagan to arrive and then they brought the cake and sang and then came the gifts. Three for each of them. Three really nice gifts.

Of course, I cried.

It's a rarity that your child has to spend his birthday in the hospital, but the folks at Cleveland Clinic sure made it a day to remember. Even if Mommy wants to forget parts of it! Reagan made out, no pain and she still got the loot!

We were in the car on the way home when 1:05pm struck. The moment Reagan was born. And then a minute later, Nolan.

I didn't care. We were together and that was all that mattered.

Nolan's Big Ambulance Ride

2011-05-09T23:01:00.000-04:00

So here is the whole story of how Nolan and I ended up on our first ambulance ride together today.

Nolan had been really sick starting 10 days ago. We took him to the doctor a week ago Saturday and was told it was "viral" and would run its course. He was not better by Wednesday and started to complain (I mean Nolan doesn't complain about much, but he was really fussy and uncomfortable) about his ear hurting, so we went back to the doctor and they gave him a 'script for Amoxicillin to get filled "if he needed it on Thursday." He was not any better with just the ibuprofen, so I got the script filled and started giving it to him on Thursday.

He has seemed fine since then and had a ball at his birthday party on Sunday. When Bill was putting his PJ's on Sunday night, he looked shocked when he pulled down Nolan's pants and saw his shins COVERED in bruises. We thought maybe he just played hard at his party, but when he got up Monday morning, it was apparent that the bruising issue was getting worse. He got a large purple welt in his elbow and that is when I called his peds office.

They asked me to look on his body for a red pin-point rash and sure enough, we found some spots under his left arm (more appeared on his back later.) She said that with those symptoms she had to advise me to get him to the nearest ER. She asked which was closest and I said Lake West and I said I’d rather take him to Hillcrest since they have a peds ER. She said she could not tell me to do that since she had to advise me to take him to the nearest ER, but if it was a matter of a couple of minutes than I should make the choice. So, off to Hillcrest we went. Bill was home sick, so we all went thinking it would be a quick trip. Not so. The ER doc knew what it was pretty much right off the bat and bloodwork confirmed it. (If you ever need to take your kid to the ER go to Hillcrest. We've experienced both Hillcrest and Lake West and there is a world of difference.)

Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura is a bleeding disorder in which the immune system destroys platelets, which are necessary for normal blood clotting. Persons with the disease have too few platelets in the blood. With Nolan’s cranio history, they did not want to take any chances of a brain bleed, so they transported us by ambulance (and a very cute life flight crew) to Cleveland Clinic’s main campus downtown.

He began a 4 hour course of IV treatment called IVIG that is supposed to “re-set” his body so it will start creating platelets and not attack them.

Fingers crossed that this works and he will only need one course. That is the case in 80% of kids.

I asked if I missed any signs and they said no. The bruising is the first.

We’ll probably be celebrating the twinadoes 4th birthdays in the hospital, but that is OK, we will all be together and that is all that matters.

Thanks again for everyones emails, texts, calls, posts, and thoughts and prayers. Our family appreciates it.

Good night from M50.

Daddy brought Nolan all his "stuff" he needs to sleep with. Lightning blanket, bear from the buena vista in san fran, and a glow in the dark star. special thanks to Aunt Jan Ross who started the nightly singing of Twinkle, Twinkle tonight....Mommy didn't have it in her.

Another Loss

2011-04-25T13:37:00.002-04:00

I got another one of those calls last night. Just like that call that came January 5 to tell us about Jimmy's plane crash. This time it was my friend. Tragic circumstances.

Thank goodness Bill is home today working in the yard with the kids because I am walking around with my mind in a daze and constant tears. I sit here trying to think of how I'm going to tell them about their friend.

You see, Stephanie and I have known each other almost since we were born. Our birthdays are 5 weeks apart and we met when I moved to the neighborhood in July of 1973. I had just turned one (we literally moved ON my first birthday) and she was lived down the street. Steph's mom, Connie, and my mom became best friends and still are today. We used to trick-or-treat together.

Stephie moved a few years later, but our families still kept in touch. I used to love to go to their house in Perry. It had a great yard and lots of room to run and play.

You remember that Duran Duran concert? The one where my Dad drove us and sat in the parking lot in a giant snowstorm? Steph and Connie were with us.

In high school and college we didn't keep in touch much, but I always knew what she was up to since Connie and my mom remained close.

Steph was at my wedding shower, my wedding, my baby shower. She held my kids when they were just days old.

She would come over with her mom and my mom and babysit for us. She cleaned up my kids "kitty barf" the night my mom gave one of them too much candy. My kids loved her and she them. She has pictures of them all over her office and house.

We bumped into each other at Old Navy in December. We talked about getting together some Friday for lunch when the weather got better. What were we waiting for and why should the weather have stopped us? Regrets, I've had a few. Add that one to the pile.

I sit and think of how I'm going to explain this to my kids. Steph,along with her two beloved cats, died from carbon monoxide inhalation from a kitchen fire. The fire put itself out and no one knew anything until the next day when she didn't show up for Easter dinner.

Ironically, for the past few weeks my kids have been into talking about fire safety. They know stop-drop-roll, call 911, feel the door before opening, they have a ladder in their room, we check the batteries in our smoke detector and they know the family meeting spot outside. Nolan worries about fire and sometimes at night asks me if we will ever have a fire in our house.

There is a lesson here, but I have no idea how to teach it through the pain.

Yesterday while we were cooking dinner, some bread got left under the broiler for too long and the alarm went off. Nolan was heading for the door until we reassured him that it was OK to stay in the house. Maybe that was Steph on her way to the other side, stopping by one more time to say goodbye.

Friends, and you all are my friends if you are reading this.....please check the batteries in your smoke detector. If you don't have one, call your local fire dept. Ours will come and install them for you FOR FREE. They will even give you reminder calls to check your batteries. No one needs to go through this pain.

Hoppin Our Way Towards Easter

2011-04-18T09:27:00.000-04:00

I have been lax in blogging, so thanks Ash for the email to get me back on track!

Here's what we've been up to:

Nolan likes the bunny this year!!!!! We went to the mall last week and he was cuddlin' up to the bunny telling him that he wanted a forklift and a Grave Digger monster truck. They also got to ride the track-less train with Grammy.

We also visited Peter Rabbit's Egg Factory (a program put on by Lake Metroparks). There are lots of games, a chance to visit the Easter Bunny, an egg hunt, and a really cool egg factory where you get an egg to start and you wash it, color it, dry it, weigh it, and send it through the pipes to see if you are a "good egg." It's a really cute set-up and a lot of work, especially when the egg hunt has to be inside due to rain & wind. It was fun to see so many of our Moms of Multiples friends, too.

The bunny giving Reagan's egg an x-ray.

Oh, I hope it comes down this chute!

Indoor egg hunt.

decorating cookies.

They gave the bunny a great big squeeze and it looked like Nolan was going to take a bite out of him!

Then it was on to an ice skating birthday party for their friend, Cora. The twinadoes have never been ice skating and where very excited to give it a try. Nolan took to it like a duck takes to water. Reagan; not so much. She did finally give it a try about 30 minutes before the end of the party with a little bribery from cousin Taylor. To all of our surprises, she liked it! I hope she learned the lesson about not giving up and giving new things a try. She did great!

Miss Jen giving Nolan a little help for his first time on the ice. It was cousin Taylors first time, too!

Nolan and his new "best friend" Michael.

Reagan giving it a try!

The kids also figured out how to get their bikes "stuck" so the back wheel would just spin and spin. Of course, they figured this out right over a big puddle. What they did not figure out was that they should not be behind the bike when the rider starts peddling. Or maybe I am wrong and that was the most fun part!

We took in an "eggstravganza" at the local library. There was lots of singing, stories, and a craft. I had to laugh when we got there.....there is all this space to sit down and this is how they ended up.

I love that they have each other. It makes this only-child so happy to know that (when they want it and even when they don't) they will have a playmate, a friend, a sibling. It was just one of those moments to remind me how grateful I am that things worked the way they did for us.

Bill and I are very lucky parents.

Ka-Chow

2011-04-04T22:30:00.000-04:00

We got to see the life size versions of Lightning McQueen & Tow-Mater. I'm not sure if the kids were more excited or if I was. I really, really like the movie Cars. It is the only Disney movie my kids will watch, so it means I only have Cars merch all over the house and not a million princess' or robots.

The tour stopped at Great Northern Mall, which might as well be in Indiana as far as I'm concerned. The weather was awful, driving rain and gusty winds, but that didn't stop us! Luckily, Aunt Jan and Aunt Deb went along for the ride.

The mall has a cute (brown as opposed to the Great Lakes Mall's white bunny) Easter bunny and a train that goes through the mall; no track. It is $3pp and about a 10 minute ride, but it beats 3 times around the oval at other holiday events that cost the same.

Since we were on that side of town, a stop at Fatheads for lunch was in order.....meaning Bill got his growler (that he so kindly left in my car this morning as a hint) filled with Imperial Headhunter IPA. No matter what he says, I am a good wife ;)

Long Time, No Post

2011-03-28T18:38:00.002-04:00

Wow. It's been a month.

February was full of editing. I did a job for Kirtland Elementary School's Princess Prom that was 200+ portraits of father/daughters and then a bunch of candids. I also did a marathon session with Baby Amelia, a cousin.....of sorts. Not sure how I left the session without packing her in the props bin. What a doll.

I also have started < drum roll please > working out. And enjoying it. I am not allowed to swim the "normal" way yet (another 3 months probs) and haven't given the kickboard method a try, but the heavens have opened and somewhere I found a piece of the mojo I had before the twinadoes came along.

Actually, Deb joined the Y and basically said I'd better get there with her or else! I like having a work-out buddy as it makes the 40 minutes on the treadmill go pretty fast. We've had a few good laughs too. Like the other day when I nearly strangled myself to get my headphones plugged in to hear an access hollywood interview with Simon LeBon and John Taylor of Duran Duran. Guess Deb now knows how far my Duran love really does run.

So it's been about 6 weeks of 3x/week working out. 2+ miles on the treadmill (40 minutes), 2 miles on the bike, and a few minutes on the arm bike to help my shoulder in the recovery process. Here's the kicker. The first 3 weeks I got on the scale once a week and hadn't lost ONE FREAKIN' POUND. I stopped getting on the scale because it was driving me insane. I know that I am moving 12 miles more per week than I had been. I have more energy. It feels good to sweat. It has to be having a positive effect somewhere.

In another "heavens open" moment, we (Bill and I, yes Bill AND I) have gone out TOGETHER the last 3 Saturdays and have another one coming up this weekend. Mark your calendars, friends. This hasn't happen since April 2007. We hit up a friends and fam night at Harvest restaurant, Michael Longo's awesome new place in Solon, a birthday party, a co-ed baby shower (at Buckeye Beer Engine--genius), and coming up this Saturday we will be attending, what Deb has dubbed, "The Coranation of Bob." Our Bobabooey is being crowned, "Exhaulted Ruler" (no joke) at the Elks Lodge. Big props to my Mom, Jen, and Taylor who have allowed this to happen.

So, I looked back at the pictures for March and this is what we have done:

2 Dr. Seuss' Birthday celebrations

I photographed Orchid Mania at the Botanical Garden had lunch at Mama Santas

Went to a "Meet the Opposum" program at the Wildlife Center/Pen Glen

Uncle Bob came into town and he was the kids "special guest" at story time

It snowed. A lot. Two Fridays during the month were a complete mess.

Nolan's yearly follow-up with Dr. Papay. All is good. Better than good, actually.

Twinadoes earned a trip to Chuck E. Cheese by filling up their marble jars.

St. Patrick's Day Parade, enjoyed from the 8th floor balcony of the Embassy Suites.

Cousin Jim's Art Show at Pen Glen

1st trip to the zoo of the year, with a stop at Happy Dog on the way home.

There's still 7 more days left, too!

Sunday, Sunday, Sunday

2011-02-25T11:09:00.001-05:00

As a parent, you do things for your kids that you never imagined yourself doing.

cue < Crazy Train>

It was an interesting event to photograph and the freestyle stuff at the end was fun, but the rest of the show was an entire commercial for monster truck jam merch with a bit of WWF action thrown in for good measure. The 4-wheeler racers, some from CLE and some from Pittsburgh, got into a "fight" after their race. Helmets were thrown, dirt was kicked up, and gums were flappin'. Exactly what we want to be teaching our children about good sportsmanship, right?!

I guess all that mattered is the kids had a good time and the only crap we came home with was a program and 2 jolly roger flags with Grave Digger Racing (in very small letters). I can handle that, as opposed to the foam Grave Digger hat filled with cotton candy that was going for $15.

Next year, (if there is a next year for us) I think I'll sit it out and have it be a twinado/Daddy/Uncle John/Sam event. Once was plenty for me.

Pictures here.

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T09:12:00.000-05:00

I am lucky to spend the day with my two sweeties and then the evening with Aunt Deb at a library presentation about ghosts in downtown Willoughby. Romance Smomance.

Here's my Valentine's from their very first Valentine's day. I so wish for them to be that small again. Too many life-changing decisions to make as they grow up so fast!

Nolan was only 5 weeks post cranio surgery in these!

Day 27 - A Picture of Yourself and a Family Member

2011-02-06T05:04:00.000-05:00

This was the first time Papa met the twinadoes. They were 11 days old. He was their only Great-Grandparent and my last Grandparent. He was a character! He left us this past June. I'm glad my kids got to know if a little bit.

Day 26 - A Picture of Something that means a lot to You

2011-02-05T04:59:00.000-05:00

1979 Bally's Supersonic Pinball Machine. My Dad and I bought one of these together when I was about 18. We played it for hours. When the novelty wore off for me, my Dad still played it. He would go do in the basement with his beer on a weekend and play and play and play.

The Supersonic is now in my basement. It needs some work. Some lights are out and things aren't hooked up just right. That doesn't matter to my kids. They love it.

I know my Dad would have loved to have played it with them.

Day 25 - A Picture of Your day

2011-02-04T16:59:00.000-05:00

Had another post-op visit. Shoulder is too stiff for the surgeons liking, so I got some cortisone. It's not that bad. Just like a bee sting. Hoping this aids the recovery. He said I should notice a huge improvement in a week.

Day 24 - A Picture of something You Wish You could Change

2011-02-02T23:01:00.000-05:00

I always wanted an older brother. How that for something you could wish for all day and never get?! Several brothers would have been fine with me. Maybe if I had them, my kids would have a ton of cousins to play with and maybe even a place to spend the night once in a while so my husband and I could get away together.

Day 23 - A Picture of Your favorite Book

2011-02-02T06:04:00.001-05:00

This is a hard one. I was a librarian for goodness sake. They are all my favorites. There is nothing like holding a book in your hands or fanning the pages and smelling the fresh ink and paper. I used to love to unpack the new books at the library. I'd just stick my head in the box and take a big sniff!

I do have a special place for Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe though. I loved everything about the book and, surprisingly, I loved the movie as well.

Day 22 - A Picture of something You Wish You were better at

2011-02-01T05:01:00.001-05:00

Swimming. I love to do it. I was doing it on a regular basis at the Y before my rotator cuff injury. Whenever this one guy would show up to swim laps, I would just hang in the corner and watch him. He literally glided through the water. He is an amazingly fast and smooth swimmer. I tried to check out his form and mimic it. I'm pretty sure I looked like I was drowning!

catching up on the 30 day photo challenge Days 19, 20, & 21

2011-01-31T01:51:00.006-05:00

Day 19 - A Picture of Your High School

A very lame picture for the Eastlake North High website.

Day 20 - A Picture of somewhere You'd Love to Travel

I want to see every last bit of it. Better get going on that!

Day 21 - A Picture of something You Wish You could Forget
Infertility. Once you go through it and are successful, you still don't forget every needle stick and month after month of disappointment. It becomes a piece of who you are.

Day 18 - A Picture of Your biggest Insecurity

2011-01-28T03:29:00.004-05:00

I suppose this is the root of it. I don't start a lot of things for fear of failure. In school I never did things on my own for fear of failure.

I did group activities like baton corp. Things that, if there was failure, I could not be directly blamed for.

I have no idea why I was this way. My parents certainly didn't foster that attitude. It just is what it is.

It wasn't until high school that I joined in a couple of activities, with a little (OK a lot) of pushing from my friends) that I really could "mess up" on my own. Writing for the school newspaper and drama club. Back then, I didn't think I was very good at either, but it brought me out of my shell so that is what counts. I would be so nervous before a play that I would make myself sick. Afraid I'd blow my lines or miss a cue.

Over the years I've gotten better and started sticking my neck out there a little more. Doing the photography thing for me has really brought this up for me again. I am so worried that people won't like their pictures. I'm working on letting that go.

Day 17 - A Picture of something that has made a huge Impact on Your Life recently

2011-01-28T03:24:00.001-05:00

I always enjoyed being around Jimmy and vibrant personality. With his untimely passing a few weeks ago, I have found him to be a source of inspiration for how I want to raise my children and live the rest of my life. So, Jimmy, from now on we are going to get our good shoes muddy!

Day 16 - A Picture of someone who Inspires You

2011-01-27T01:49:00.000-05:00

My Granny Pike was an amazing lady. She raised three sons on less than a shoestring budget. She put up with a husband that drank up a lot of that household budget. She was a confidant to all the neighborhood kids. She cooked, crocheted, sewed, gardened, and had a lot of love to give. Even though she has been gone over 20 years, I still think of her several times a week.

Pappy, Granny, Me & my Dad.

Day 15 - A Picture of something You want to do before You Die

2011-01-26T01:04:00.007-05:00

I used to work with a guy who was from Africa. His descriptions of it were pure poetry. Now that I have a daughter that adores animals and wants to be an animal vet, I think I might have a partner-in-crime for an African Safari!

Day 14 - A Picture of Someone You could never Imagine Your Life without

2011-01-25T01:32:00.000-05:00

Of course its going to be my husband and my kids. Without them, life would not be what or where it is today.

Another person I've had to live the last 11 years of my life without is my Dad. It was, and still is. unimaginable to have to do this. He was one of a kind and I still miss him everyday.

Day 13 - A Picture of Your favorite Band or Artist

2011-01-24T03:19:00.002-05:00

Anyone that knows me, knows I am a Duranie. Have been since I was 12 years old.

I have been fortunate to be front row center a couple of times when they reunited in 2004-2005. I temporarily lost my mind those nights. I also happened to have the blind luck to be at the Hard Rock Cafe Pittsburgh when they dropped by for a little meet and greet. Honestly, I screamed like I did February 27, 1984 when I first saw them at the Richfield Coliseum. My favorite Duran Duran related story happened that night.

Pictures from Baltimore & Pittsbugh 2005

me--->

me holding Rogers hand. He gave me his wrist band ---->

At age 12, I ate, slept, and breathed Duran Duran. When the 7 and the Ragged Tiger Tour dates were announced, I camped out at the ticket outlet (which was inside Sears at the Great Lakes Mall.) For what it was worth, I got crappy seats, but didn't care one bit. I remember thinking I'd be breathing the same air as Simon LeBon. I was sure I'd pass out. (Little did I know I was breathing the same air as one, Bill Polewchak.)

February 27 comes and NE Ohio is hit with the biggest snowstorm it has seen since the "Blizzard of '77." I remember coming home and my mom telling me we would not be going because she was afraid to drive the almost 1 hour drive to the Coliseum.

I sat on our blue tweed couch and cried my eyes out.

My Dad came home from work, took one look at me and said, "Get dressed. I'll drive you."

So he did. It was an awful drive, but here is the kicker.......

There were no parents waiting area back in those days. He sat IN THE CAR and waited for us in that freezing snowstorm.

The concert was on a Monday night. It was so bad school was cancelled for the rest of the week.

I know. I was a lucky, lucky girl.

Day 12 - A Picture of Something You Love

2011-01-23T10:29:00.001-05:00

They say a picture is worth 1,000 words. That doesn't begin to cover it.

Day 11 - A Picture of something You Hate

2011-01-22T10:29:00.001-05:00

Yeah, yeah, I know. I live in Northeast Ohio. Been here my whole life. I know it is never going to change and there isn't a thing I can do about it.

I HATE SNOW & BEING COLD. I can't stand when the air is so cold that when you breath in, it makes you shiver inside your nose and then continues down your whole body.

Reagan got a face full of snow and was making a bad face. I imagine this is what I look like every time I have to step outside when the temperature is below 32 degrees F.

Day 10 - A Picture of your Closet

2011-01-21T10:28:00.000-05:00

I'm allowing myself one pass in this 30 days of pictures. This is it. My closet is a mess. I can't reach to put things away properly, so shoes are out of the shoe caddy, the pile of tank tops is not neat and tidy, and there is a pile of PJ's just waiting for me to lift them onto the shelf.

I will say this; it is a very nice large closet with sliding doors and it is all mine because the people that built this house put two huge closets in the two larger bedrooms. Works out great for our room and the kids room.

This was taken when a crew of friends descended on our house to paint every surface, rip up every room full of carpet, gut a kitchen and bath, and many other projects. All in 2 weeks. In everyone's "spare" time. My closet is the one on the left that you can barely see, but you get the idea.

So glad that baby shit rug is history.

Day 09 - A Picture of your Purse (female) or Wallet (male)

2011-01-21T09:48:00.003-05:00

Well, this isn't going to be too exciting. Back before kids, I used to have some interesting purses, it was my "thing." I had some that looked like bowling bags and chinese take-out containers. I even got hooked on Coach purses for a while. Now it is just practical "Mommy" type purses.

Vera for the Spring/Summer

and Tignanello for the Fall/Winter.

Sometimes, I wish it were this:

Day 08 - A Picture that makes you Laugh

2011-01-20T09:56:00.004-05:00

It makes me laugh and I'm sure it will make you laugh, too. This past summer, Jan and I headed to Mexico for a few nights. We pretty much spent the trip at the swim-up bar being fed pina colada's all day by our Papi, or in a taxi cab (with pina coladas) going into town to do some (drunk) shopping.

One (well, actually two) such trips were in the pursuit of mexican wrestling masks for our husbands. We were in fact, called "the best wives ever" by two guys at the sports bar who had mask-envy.

Saturday night at the resort was mexican fiesta night. There was a mariachi band, a guy hand-rolling cigars, dancers, and a bull. On the way into the buffet, Jan and I saw the bull.

He seemed to be taunting us.

We decided we would take him on as members of the "Lucha libre"

Hey, if you are going to ride the bull you might as well do it in (some sort of) style!

Day 07 - A Picture of Your Childhood Crush

2011-01-19T09:51:00.000-05:00

Day 7 of the 30 day photo challenge.....

3rd grade. Totally loved Dr. Noah Drake. Didn't get to see him in concert until I was in my late 20's with some crazy girlfriends.

Day 06 - A Picture of a Person You'd Love to Trade places with for a day

2011-01-18T12:43:00.000-05:00

Because running around a French chateau with Brad Pitt would probably not suck.

Day 05 - A Picture of Your Favorite Memory

2011-01-17T09:49:00.000-05:00

Of course, the obvious.

Then there's this one. Front row, center, my birthday 2005, Duran Duran, Baltimore. I took plenty of better quality pictures (when I could stop shaking), but this was taken by a stranger and I later found it posted on the Duran Duran fan community message board. Save A Prayer is my fave song, Bill played it at our wedding for me, when they played it and I was that close to them I'm not sure what happened, but I started crying....and then Bill and I danced. Again, not the best picture, but completely captures the memory for me and that is all that matters.

Day 04 - A Picture of Your Night

2011-01-16T09:52:00.000-05:00

We made some new friends from all over the country this past week at Cousin Jimmy's wake. One of them, Chuck, came over for dinner and played some music for us. The kids, especially Nolan, were fascinated. It had been an emotional day and this was a fitting end to celebrate Jimmy's life.

Music heals.

*Technically this was Friday night, but I didn't take a picture last night. And I love this picture.

Day 03 - A Picture of the Cast from Your Favorite Show.

2011-01-15T10:02:00.001-05:00

Favorite Show of All Time. Tie.

Favorite Show Currently.

If you are not watching Friday Night Lights, run to your local library or Amazon and order it up.

Day 02 - A Picture of You and the Person You have been Closest with the Longest.

2011-01-14T10:33:00.002-05:00

Technically my mom has known me the longest of anyone I know! While we have our ups and downs, I know she will always be there for me and will never stop being my mom, even if I am one now too. I love you, Mom!

Day 01 - A Picture of Yourself and Fifteen Facts

2011-01-13T10:33:00.000-05:00

1. When I grow up I want to be a photo journalist or a food photographer.

2. I love being a mom. I worked damn hard to get to be one.

3. My favorite spot in the world (so far) is on top of Spring Mountain in California.

4. I was shy in elementary & middle school.

5. My favorite place to eat in Cleveland is Momocho. I was on the Food Network show, Diners, Drive-In's & Drive talking about it.

6. I love the Japanese portion of the Cleveland Botanical Garden. I have modeled a flower bed at our house after it.

7. While not fluent in Spanish, I can get by fairly well in Mexico, unless I've had too many pina colada's.

8. After 10 years, the loss of my Dad continues to be the thing that has impacted my life the most.

9. I married my best friend.

10. I would like another child. There, I said it.

11. There is no better feeling than experiencing something again through the eyes of your child.

12. I don't like to be dependent on others. Having rotator cuff surgery has really slowed me down.

13. I don't have a big family, so my friends take the place of that.

14. Photography has become a passion (and a money maker) in the last 2 years.

15. Enjoys swimming, especially in the infinity in Mexico at 7am all alone.

The 30 Day Photo Challenge

2011-01-13T09:35:00.000-05:00

My friend, Ashley (I actually used to be her babysitter and now she is a rockin' Navy wife and mom of two cuties--nope, doesn't make me feel OLD in the least), is doing this and I thought it would be a good way to get back to blogging and give me something to do during the winter duldrums.

The 30 Day Photo Challenge

Here's the deal, every day you post the corresponding photo and write a short story (see below) I encourage all my readers to participate as well. It would be fun to get to know everyone. If you do choose to participate, please comment with a link to your blog below.
Day 01 - A Picture of Yourself and Fifteen Facts.

Day 02 - A Picture of You and the Person You have been Closest with the Longest.

Day 03 - A Picture of the Cast from Your Favorite Show.

Day 04 - A Picture of Your Night

Day 05 - A Picture of Your Favorite Memory

Day 06 - A Picture of a Person You'd Love to Trade places with for a day

Day 07 - A Picture of Your Childhood Crush

Day 08 - A Picture that makes you Laugh

Day 09 - A Picture of your Purse (female) or Wallet (male)

Day 10 - A Picture of your Closet

Day 11 - A Picture of something You Hate

Day 12 - A Picture of something You Love

Day 13 - A Picture of Your favorite Band or Artist

Day 14 - A Picture of Someone You could never Imagine Your Life without

Day 15 - A Picture of something You want to do before You Die

Day 16 - A Picture of someone who Inspires You

Day 17 - A Picture of something that has made a huge Impact on Your Life recently

Day 18 - A Picture of Your biggest Insecurity

Day 19 - A Picture of Your High School

Day 20 - A Picture of somewhere You'd Love to Travel

Day 21 - A Picture of something You Wish You could Forget

Day 22 - A Picture of something You Wish You were better at

Day 23 - A Picture of Your favorite Book

Day 24 - A Picture of something You Wish You could Change

Day 25 - A Picture of Your day

Day 26 - A Picture of Something that means a lot to You

Day 27 - A Picture of Yourself and a Family Member

Day 28 - A Picture of Something You're Afraid of

Day 29 - A Picture that Can Always Make You Smile.

Day 30 - A Picture of Someone You Miss

One Week & It Still Doesn't Seem True

2011-01-12T11:53:00.000-05:00

Death is never an easy thing.

Sometimes when people are old and sick it is a blessing, but when someone you love is taken from this earth in the prime of their life it is a bitter pill to swallow. I've had to do it when my half-sister, Kim, died of a brain anyerisum a few years ago.

Wednesday, January 5, we got another one of those calls. Bill's cousin, Jimmy, was piloting his own plane when it malfunctioned upon take-off and crashed. He was an experienced pilot, someone I would have let my own children fly with.

I first met Jimmy in 1999; he was Bill's closest relative; as well as a friend. He would fly home for a weekend or a holiday and would stop over to see us and would inevitably end up spending the night because we just sat around the kitchen table, talking, drinking, and laughing.

Oh, his laugh. It was booming. And contagious.

If I didn't know he was from Mentor OH, I would have put money on him being from the South. He had a twang and that southern charm. Jimmy found his home in Texas and lived a bachelors dream. He lived on a boat in Port Aransas. He met his future wife, Kelly, there and eventually moved close to Dallas, which worked for us. BK (before kids), Bill and I spent some time each year in Dallas with my Aunt & Uncle and always had a night or two out with Cousin Jim. Our favorite spot to meet up was Lower Greenville.

He flew in for our wedding in 2003 and I can still hear his laugh. He fit right in with my crazy family and spent the night on the dance floor. In his haste to get into town quickly, he forgot to get us a wedding gift. The next time he flew into town, there he was at our front door with a gift.

I always admired his spirit of adventure. Want to go scuba diving in Belize? Sure, why not. Want to sail a boat to Mexico? Let's go. Riding motorcycles around the country? Absolutely. Once Jimmy got it in his head that he was going to do "X." He actually went out and did it. Not many of us can say that.

Life happened and infertility and then, thankfully, kids made our lives a blur. Jimmy married Kelly. We were sad that we couldn't be there, but I was a little under 6 weeks to delivery and couldn't fly and Bill was worried that if he went, that would be when I went into labor.

In the past 3 years, we only got to see them twice. I am so glad our kids got to at least meet him.

The first time they met a group of us had dinner at Rocky River Brewing Comp. Bill was at the Browns game, but that didn't matter. Jim and Kelly brought the kids their first Winnie The Pooh & Tigger stuffed animals and gave them lots of hugs and kisses. Whenever Jimmy would laugh, 3 month olds, Reagan and Nolan would look around at where that funny sound was coming from. The next time we got together, the kids were 1 1/2 and were fascinated with Jimmy. He brought his guitar and sang to the kids and let them strum and play around with the guitar. All with that big grin on his face. We shared a sunset at the lake at the end of our street. It was a beautiful one.

We would have loved to have taken the kids to Texas for one of Jim & Kelly's summer parties, but it was always something and there was always "next year."

He lived his life and loved his family and friends like there was no tomorrow. He did what he wanted, when he wanted, and had a hell of a good time doing it. It hurts something awful knowing he is gone, but it is a bit of a comfort knowing he lived life with no regrets. Not many of us can say that.

Jimmy, I am going to strive to live my life the way you did. I want to live passionately, experience life, love deeply, and have a blast doing it. I want to raise my kids to live that way. I expect them to be great adventurers like you.

The world is a dimmer place without you in it. If all of us that knew you strive to live as you did maybe we can restore some of that light.

A gentleman.

A scholar.

A good soul.

An adventurer.

Jimmy, you have left a hole in Bill's heart. You two shared some fun times, as well as the Polewchak family resemblance. As I put this blog together (it has taken me a week, because every time I start it, I stop because I'm crying), Reagan and Nolan were watching me insert the pictures. They insist that is their Daddy in the pictures.

Bill is not close to too many people. You were one of them. Before I knew either of you, it sounds like you had some good times at Pine Ridge and The Iguana. I know he treasures those. This has been very hard for him.

I'm sure there are oysters and beer being served up left and right in heaven right now. When it's our turn, save us a seat.

hasta luego, cuz. Your spirit will live on.

3 Years

2011-01-02T21:41:00.001-05:00

Hard to believe another year has passed, it seems like I was just sitting at my dining room table writing the 2 year post-surgery blog about Nolan's head and weeping looking at the pictures. I can't type much this year, well I can, but being one-armed makes it take forever, so this will be short and sweet!

Tomorrow morning, as I did 3 years ago before surgery and every year since, I will kiss my boys whole head from ear to ear along his scar and say a thank you to Drs. Papay and Luciano for their steady hands while poking around my sons grey matter and remember all our friends and family that were there going through the whole process with us.

So, happy new head day, Nolan! Your Daddy, sister, and I love you so much, buddy!

Here's all the posts if you wish to go back and read about what we went through.

First 5/Last 5

2010-12-31T18:52:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year from me, Bill, Reagan, & Nolan!

The first 5 pictures I took in 2010

(not bad for being a bit, ahem, intoxicated)

The last 5 pictures I took in 2010

and more than 8,000 in between.

Happy New Year!

Glass 1/2 Empty kind of day

2010-12-19T15:36:00.000-05:00

I'm going to be negative here, because I can and i need to get it out.

1. surgery sucks
2. both my kids have barfed their heads off in the last 72 hours.
3. i can't do a thing for them, not even a proper hug.
4. there is a mouse in our basement eating through my stockpile of good deals. F-U mouse. hopefully, he ate some of the "treat" bill left for him.
5. WTF are my cats doing while there is a party going on in my basement?
6. i can't hold my camera. I haven't gone more than 2 days without taking a picture in 2 years. there is a ice-encased lighthouse to photograph that is calling my name
7. i am not patient. i do not want to do 6 MONTHS of rehab
8. the browns are losing
9. I'm not going to be able to take my kids to Country Lights this week.
10. my throat hurts, my ribs ache, my back is sore

sure there are positives, like I woke up this morning and I'm lucky to have Bill taking care of as much as he possibly can and my mom to take Reagan for the day, but at this minute my glass is 1/2 empty and this is my pity party.

Santa Take 4 or 5, I've Lost Count

2010-12-15T17:29:00.000-05:00

http://www.nolanpchak.blogspot.com/

Bill was beyond excited when I announced that we would be attending yet another Breakfast With Santa.

No.

Really.

He REALLY was because it was at A BAR.

One that has a lot of great IPA’s on tap, especially his very favorite, Racer 5. (Hint, hint…foreshadowing)

So last Saturday morning we set off for Happy Dog. We feasted on pancakes and sausage for the kids; hotdogs and tator tots for the grownups (who ended up eating the kids leftover pancakes because they were so good!)

Of course, the Big Guy was there. Yes, Reagan got right up on his lap. They talked a long time while many of us tried to convince Nolan that he needed to go tell Santa what he wanted for Christmas.

After some small talk about her brother, Santa asked Reagan standard, “What do you want for Christmas, little girl?” Reagan replied, “The Playmobil Zoo and some Racer 5.”

I.AM.NOT.MAKING.THIS.UP.

My friend, Jen, was standing next to me as a witness. I thought I'd have to pick her up off the floor.

My three year old daughter, make that Bill’s 3 year old daughter, just asked Santa for a 6 pack of a hoppy California IPA.

BEER.

She asked SANTA for BEER.

(I’m sure there was a little coaching while in line, right Daddy?)

When in Rome, I guess.

Meanwhile, Tommy the pinball wizard was hanging in the back of the bar near the games. The only thing that got him up there was telling him I would actually put money in the pinball machine after suffering through a photo op for Mommy.

Meanwhile back at the ranch, Santa and Reagan waited.....

...and waited.

Nolan slowly waked to the stage.

Santa went to put his arm around him.

Nolan took two more steps to the right and rolled his eyes upward. He didn’t breath. He didn’t blink. He wouldn’t even glance to the left.

The sheer agony.

When I told him to step away, he took a deep sigh and walked away. Santa offered him a popcorn ball, but he wasn’t going back for it, so Santa rolled it to him.

In the meantime, the Racer 5 Queen was busy making the bubbles disappear in her Daddy's beer by dipping her fingers in it while he chatted up the bartender.

Two peas in a (Bear Republic) pod.

Of course, when it is time for Santa to take his leave, Nolan was all over him.

Crazy fun times, people.
Or just crazy!
I wouldn't have it any other way.

Santa Takes 1 & 2

2010-11-30T21:38:00.000-05:00

Nolan had made it pretty clear that was having nothing to do with Santa this year. We got to the mall and he stayed true to his word.

Take 1

Reagan and Santa were singing songs and taking about the jingle bell necklace she had and how magical it is, etc.

Nolan laid down in line and refused to get up.

We decided to walk around and give him time to warm up to the idea, have a little lunch, ride the train (several times) and do a little (bribe) shopping.

Three hours later we walked back over to the Santa. Of course, he was at lunch. So we had to wait. Giving him more time to regret his decision to try again.

He reluctantly agreed to hold Reagan's hand.

....and eventually let go of my Mom's! lol

And then decided that Santa is not such a bad guy after all.

Success. Sort of.

And because I strive to be honest on this little blog o'mine, I have to mention this little story. Reagan was so excited to ride the train and see Santa a second time that at lunch she shoved two Chick-Fil-A nuggets in her yop at one time.

You guessed it.

She choked.

And then she kitty barfed. In the middle of the mall food court.

That would have been a good time to be the Wicked Witch of the West and just casually melt into the floor.

Time to Shutter.....Shutterfly That Is

2010-11-22T21:16:00.000-05:00

You know me and pictures. I take them of everything. I like to share them. I like to design gifts around them. It is no shock that I design my kids birthday invitations and our Christmas cards every year.

I've already started thinking about this years cards, but when I started working on them on Shutterfly I stumbled upon some of our past Christmas cards.

2007

Heritage Holiday Christmas

Get custom photo Christmas cards online at Shutterfly.com.

View the entire collection of cards.

2008

Modern Wreath Christmas

Shop Shutterfly for elegant custom Christmas photo cards.

View the entire collection of cards.

Where have those little babies gone?!

My current fave for this year; although I find a new one I like every time I go on the site: http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/cards-stationery/retro-kaleidoscope-holiday-card-5x7-flat?sortType=1&storeNode=93479

I really like Shutterfly's HUGE variety of cards, reasonable prices (they always have some kind of special going on this time of year too), and a very easy site to navigate and design with.

I've already created several versions of our holiday card and calendars and mugs, and well you get my point.....this year, but no matter which one I go with it will have the shutterfly logo on the back.

If you are looking for a personalized gift, they've got it. No, they've got several to choose from so check them out:

· Christmas photo cards www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/christmas-photo-cards

· Holiday invitations www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/christmas-invitations

· Holiday photo cards www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery
· calendar www.shutterfly.com/calendars

· address labels www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/address-labels

· personalized mugs www.shutterfly.com/photo-gifts/photo-mugs

For writing this post, I'm going to get 50 free cards (puts a nice dent in the 120 or so that we send) and you can too. All you have to do is go here, fill out the little form and then you'll get an email about how you can write a little blog and get free stuff.

Three Tiers of Memories

2010-11-20T23:50:00.001-05:00

www.nolanpchak.blogspot.com

Other than the kids toys, I don’t care for a lot of knick-knacks. I like to display pictures and a few things that have a deep meaning to me. Some of these things reside in my kitchen on a three-tiered shelf next to the sink.

On two of those shelves are mementos from my Grandparents houses; the third contains my very favorite picture of Reagan and Nolan when they were babies and a dish I painted on our honeymoon in Mexico.

On the second shelf are my Granny Pike’s measuring cups and spoons. They are metal and some parts of the spoons are so worn that they feel like they are about to snap. She was a good cook and I like to think she is standing beside me in my kitchen when I measure with her spoons. I secretly hope someday when I’m holding a measuring cup it is going to guide me through the kitchen allowing me to make her apricot rolls that I miss so much at the holidays. (Cut me some slack, I just saw Harry Potter. A girl can dream!)

Next to those cups are Pillsbury Dough Boy salt and pepper shakers. Those held a spot on my Grandma Neiman’s stove. They didn’t get used much because she didn’t like “spicy” things. I’m sure the salt got used for baking because she could make a mean torte cake and some tasty thumbprint cookies.

On the highest shelf are clear glass oil and vinegar bottles. The oil label has long since fallen off, but the vinegar one is there. It was made with one of those hand-held embossed label makers.

Dial, click, dial, click, dial, click.

My Pappy had one of those and would sit in his rocking chair and make labels for hours. Basically everything in their house had a label. Helpful things like the water valves on/off positions and then more basic things like “sewing machine.” I’m pretty sure his label fetish drove my Granny crazy, but that green label brings back mucho memories for me.

Nearby is the photo collage I made for Papa Neiman to give to him for Father’s Day this past June. We never got a chance to give it to him. He left us a few days before.

As I dusted off each one of these special pieces, I started thinking about what Thanksgiving would be like if they were all here with me. There would be tasty apricot rolls (probably with a label on it), but more importantly there would be laughter and probably a little yelling if Pappy drank too much Rolling Rock, which would have been highly likely. Granny Pike would have been yelling “whoopee” an awful lot as the kids put on a show for her and got all wound up. Papa Neiman would be sitting there eating and eating and eating. And asking for a goodie bag to take home. His shirt pocket would have cookies stuffed in them. Grandma Neiman would be yelling at him to stop eating as she sat at the table smacking her lips (habit) with her perfectly coiffed hair (set every Friday at Beth’s Beauty Shop in Slavic Village), but she’d not forget to bring out the trays of thumbprint cookies with her special cream cheese frosting. But only after everyone was around the table, lest someone eat them all up before the others got a chance.

I can’t have them here, no matter how hard I try. They no longer walk this earth in body form. Their circle of life is complete. I can close my eyes and imagine though.

The people that are still here and can be here may choose not to be this year and that hurts me. Grudges and stubbornness may prevent that. It makes me sad, but I’ve decided that life is too short for those things and I can’t make people change so I’ll just go with it. I’ll make it the best day I can for my kids, because that is what I have to do as an adult. We’ll watch the Thanksgiving Day Parade and cheer for the arrival of Santa. Then we’ll stuff our bellies with good food and wine and talk about the things in life we are grateful for and hope that next year there are more seats filled at our table with those we love; while we still have the chance to be together.

The Things They Say

2010-11-11T23:08:00.000-05:00

I haven’t done one of these posts in so long. I guess the twinadoes have been talking for so long that I forget they are only 3 and say some pretty sophiscated things for their age. I am so lucky that they are both so vocal, well, most times I’m lucky!

Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds was on the radio in my van. I didn’t tell the kids it was the Beatle’s, yet Reagan pipes up with, “ But in Grammy’s car, the Beatles say HELP! I need somebody.”

Nolan requests the Foo Fighters, because he likes when Dave Grohl, “sings fast.” Nolan really is great about picking out a tune and humming along even if he doesn’t know the words. I plan to foster that ability in the future.

While walking at the zoo and looking elsewhere, Reagan ran into a plant. She said, “Oops, I ran into the koala’s bears food; bamboo!”

Reagan counting: 12, 12 14, 15, twelve-teen, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 17, 18, 19, 17, 18, 19…. Bill: 20!!!!

For Christmas this year Reagan wants, “a dozen donuts and a bag of candy.”

While reading a Dora book, I asked Nolan a question and he answered, “I don’t know. I’m not the map.”

Mommy: Nolan, say eggs in Polish. Nolan: “eggs in Polish.”

Nolan calls construction cones “pinecones.”

Nolan, “Mommy apply your brakes! There is a red light ahead.”

Reagan peering in a case at the West Side Market, “Mommy, I see a piggy made out of meat!”

Mommy to Nolan: stay in your own yard. Nolan: “that sounds like a plan, Mom.”

While driving, Nolan came out with, “Damnit! These people need to learn how to drive!”

Reagan (in a very proud manner): "Guess what Nolan and I were doing while you were in the bathroom? Jumping over the couch, like the cow jumping over the moon!!!"

While Nolan was hugging me one morning he said, "I love you, you little furball!" Thanks, I think.

Nolan's new favorite word: Mischiegous. Used in a sentence, "In the movie Cars, the cars that push Mac off the road are very mischiegous and naughty!"

Driving by a construction site in the rain, Nolan said, “Since it is raining, the workers are not doing foundations today.”

Nolan: where’s Mailman Tom.
Me: at home having dinner with is family.
Nolan: Yeah, with mailman mommy.

Mommy: You make my heart proud.

Nolan: And you make mine too.

What It's All About.

2010-10-29T22:45:00.000-04:00

I'll Have A Slice of Thin Crust

2010-10-26T16:59:00.000-04:00

and one curious george.

Just two of many costumes this halloween season!

Couponing 101

2010-10-14T17:34:00.001-04:00

From time to time, I have friends ask about my couponing, so here is a one example of what I consider a good shop.

I enjoy couponing. It is a game for me to get free razors, rice, and toliet paper. I normally do a weekly shop at Giant Eagle that I try to keep around $50 for the week (after coupons). That includes ~~Sal's~~ Reagan's blueberries, bananas, and 2-3 gallons of hormone-free milk weekly. Then anything I have great coupons for that will make it free or cheap goes into the cart. If it is something I can get for free that we don't use, I get it and donate it because it still goes towards the fuel perks I WILL use.

These shops don't include meat since I don't buy that from GE, but shop a local market for that.

Giant Eagle
Actual shelf cost: $87.10
Cost after GE card: $77.85
Cost after coupons: $53.85
Cost after rebates: $43.85
Total Savings: $43.25
50% savings! I'll take that!

Since I shop weekly, I scour the sales and stock up as necessary. About the only thing I buy, at retail price, on a weekly basis is milk and fruit. I also try to stay away from processed foods for our family, but sometimes the only thing the kids will eat for lunch is plain pizza.

This week I found a great deal in the clearance cart. Tom's of Maine Natural Toothpaste. Retail price: $2.73. It was on clearance for $1.24. I had a coupon for $1 off. There were two tubes left and I had 2 coupons.

I also like to shop the cheese section carefully. We always put a cheese board out when we entertain, so I like to have a variety on hand. At Giant Eagle, as cheese closes in on its sell by date, they stick a $1 off sticker on it. Cheese is pretty pricey these days, so even that little bit helps. Today I stumbled on small chunks of White Stilton, some with lemon zest, cranberries, or blueberries. Most of these chunks were under $3. The four that I purchased cost $2.55 total, one of them being a whopping nickel! If they don't get consumed this weekend, I'll either freeze them and use them for cooking or just make a sauce with them.

There has been a wine deal going this week as well. Casillero wines are $9.99. If you buy $20 in groceries, the catalina machine spits out a $10 rebate. Free wine. Well, postage cost minus a penny. You can do this deal as many times as you'd like, but it has to be seperate transactions. Meaning you can't buy 3 bottles if you are spending $60. The machine will only generate one, but if you want to break up your shopping or do seperate transactions, the machine will spit one out for each $20 order.

Things I stock up on when I can get them cheaply; rice, pasta, and paper products.

Things I have to keep on hand and stock up on when they are on sale: YoCrunch (only chocolate chip flavor) for Reagan. This week they were on sale 3 packs/$6. I had $1.50 GE catalina coupons and a manufacturer coupon for $.75 (doubled to $1.50), so I got all 3 packs for $3.

I might not be the best couponer out there and I know plenty of people that would have gotten all this stuff for like, $1.34 or something crazy like that, but I was pretty happy with this shopping trip.

*not pictured are the~~bribes~~ donuts the kids got for being good in the Eagles Nest.

For Those Not On Facebook

2010-10-11T18:19:00.000-04:00

Yes, there are still a couple of followers of this blog that are not on facebook, so here is a recap for those that haven't seen the pictures.

We've been busy, but what else is new. Bill is out of town this week and my buttons are being pushed like mad. Let's hope the three of us survive each other with no breaks. To those of you with partners that travel often or are on active military duty and you have to be the solo act 24-7, I salute you. After a day or two we get into a groove and things move along fine, its the getting to fine that sucks.

So here's what we've been up to. Follow the links for photos.

Night time stories at the schoolhouse, which helped Reagan with her fear of the dark.....a little.

Moms of Mulitples Halloween party.

Goblins In The Garden at the Arboretum. I am ashamed to say this was my first visit to the Arboretum. It is gorgeous and this little treasure is on our local map now.

Five Dolla

2010-10-05T10:20:00.002-04:00

We've tailgated for a lot of years.

In the Muni lot.

In the Burke lot.

In many other unnamed lots.

We found our home in "The Pit."

This past week, the geniuses at Network Parking decided to charge $5 for "Pedestrian Traffic."

Sure there are lots of people that come down to The Pit to join their friends for some beverages, food and fun before the game. We have one in our group of season ticket holders. He does the responsible thing by taking the Rapid and meeting up with us. We pay $30, yes 30 bones to park and set up camp for the morning. There are usually 3 of us in our car and then another car that holds 2 people, pays $30 more bones and meets up with us.

Apparently that is not enough for the greedy folks at Network Parking. They suddenly decided, and from what I hear they did it without the proper permits, to charge $5 for people walking in.

We Are Not Just Going to Bend Over And Take It!

A fellow blogger, Cleveland's a Plum, has a bigger voice than me and has taken to the airwaves.

Might seem trivial to some of you, but Clevelanders are passionate about their Browns (yes, even the 1-3 Browns....hey, we've seen worse teams!) and their tailgating.....and having an extra $5 in their pocket.

Hey Browns! He's Available.

2010-09-28T16:10:00.000-04:00

He's Marvelous, He's Curious George

2010-09-25T09:32:00.000-04:00

I took Grammy and the kids to Pittsburgh for an overnight this past week to meet Curious George. They have a special (ends Oct 3) exhibit at the Pittsburgh Children's Musuem (which is a kick a$$ place for kids to explore) and on Wednesday and Saturday, George himself makes an appearance.

Let me tell you.....he was the cutest thing. EVER. The twinadoes ran into his arms and just kept hugging him. Nolan would not let go! They gave him kisses and hugs, high fives, and snuggles. It took everything in me not to run up there and hug him too!

The day before the musuem, we made a stop at the Duquesne Incline. It was Grammy's first time and she was a little nervous. My sweet boy made sure to hold onto her so she wouldn't be afraid.

The kids were ~~a little~~ a lot, wound up when we got out of the pool at the hotel and my mom could see that I needed to get away. IKEA was only 10 minutes away and I was running out to pick up dinner so a quick stop for some retail therapy was in order. I got some frames for some of my photography and a few kitchen gadgets, but the hour alone was worth a million dollars. Thanks, Mom!

So that rounded out our summer of adventures and bridged the gap to fall. Stick around and see what kind of mischief we get into in the next few months.

All the photos.

Pymatuning

2010-09-17T13:49:00.000-04:00

It's been a long time since I've been to the Spillway at Pymatuning Lake. Just to give you an idea, my parents took my friend, Heidi and I, and while we were there we bought matching neon half-shirts that had "Pymatuning Lake" written like paint splatter.

Yes, it was the 80's.

Grammy was on vacation this week, so we decided to do a little road trip. I emptied the freezer of all the old bread I had been saving and loaded up the kids and their potty (can I say it one more time, potty training SUCKS) and off we went.

I have no memory of the spillway (and really only remember the shirt because there is a picture of Heidi and I wearing them), so it was like I was there for the first time too.

The Three Amigos

The twinadoes had a good time throwing their "loads" (Nolan word for "loaf") of bread and were done in about 4 minutes.

Feeding "loads" of bread

My turn! My turn! My turn!

I decided to follow the compass on the car (mental note, add GPS to Xmas list), and explore a bit. We ended up in a little town called Linesville. Think main street USA on a smaller scale. We had lunch at an awesome little place called Rebecca's and then hit a couple of shops before heading out.

Coloring at Rebecca's. One of the few times he is not smiling is when he is concentrating.

I love this girl with all my heart.

The Main Street USA thing

We took mainly back roads home and ended up in familiar territory which happened to be near the wineries. After a stop at a roadside fruit market, I decided my mom and I deserved a glass of wine. I know Debonne has lots of open space for little ones to burn off energy PLUS they have a brewery so I knew I could bring Daddy home a treat. It was more like dinner since I wasn't home to cook, but I didn't hear him complaining!

The roadside market happened to have a John Deere. Nolan asked the man, "why is your John Deere H He knows all the models) hiding in the corn?"

We got our wine and got comfy outside while the kids put on a tumbling show on the outdoor stage. We were the only people outside, so it was quiet and we could hear the music that was being piped inside.

Ladies & Gentlemen, the Tumbling Twinadoes!

Now, call me kooky (as I'm sure my husband will), but approximately how many songs have there been made from 1944-2000? Millions, right? As my mom and I were sitting there enjoying the lovely fall day and the kids were having a rager, my Dad's favorite song came on. Well, one of his favorites, he had 5 that I know he LOVED.

I don't see this as a coinicidence.

I like to think that somewhere in the heavens and through fate, that song played for us. I think it was my Dad's way of letting us know he was with us, just like he was when he took me to Pymatuning so many years ago.

Is that you, Dad?

Airshow

2010-09-08T23:23:00.000-04:00

Loge seats rock. Not much else to say. The pictures speak for themselves.

Enjoy more here.

Downtown Photo Challenge

2010-08-20T11:21:00.000-04:00

My BFF mentioned a photo contest to me at the beginning of summer. I promptly forgot about it until last night. I googled it and found the deadline to be the very next day. I never used to be an under-the-wire kind of person, right?

My entries.

Category: Living City

Living City

Cleveland would be nothing without Clevelanders. Whether it's large scale events, small informal happenings, spontaneous moments on the street, interactions among friends or between strangers... it is people that bring the city to life. Submit your best images of Cleveland's great citizens and visitors to this category.

Catergory: Future Forward

Future Forward

In this category we are looking for images that exemplify growth, optimism and positive change around Downtown. What are Clevelanders doing to make the best of hard times? What types of projects are people taking on? How are businesses weathering the economy? What are people doing to stay positive? Submit your photographs that you feel show a bright future for our city! These shots may be altered to allow for creative expression.

Wish me luck!

A Decade

2010-08-18T22:20:00.004-04:00

A decade.

Ten years.

1,200 months.

3,652 days.

520 Saturdays.

10 years ago, the day started off wonderful. Our friends, Bev & Chris got married. The reception, an afternoon affair where Bill was the DJ, was a lot of fun. The party then moved to the hotel where all the out of town guests were staying. In between the reception and the after party, I went over to my parents house to see my Dad. He was miserable. His legs were swollen beyond belief. Cancer had overtaken his body and he could no longer fight. My mom told me she was finally ready to contact Hospice for help.

It was time.

He was trying to rest in the spare room bed, but was very uncomfortable. I leaned in and kissed him goodbye and told him I loved him, as I always did. His voice, barely a whisper, replied, “I know you do, kid.” I laughed and said, “Of course you do.”

I went to the after party, but my heart wasn’t in it, so we headed home. Shortly after 11pm, the phone rang and I was out of bed throwing on shoes before I even said hello.

I knew the time had come.

I don’t remember anything about the drive to my parents house. I don’t know if I drove or if Bill did. I don’t know which roads we took. I know when we pulled in the driveway, I jumped out before the car was turned off.

The next couple of hours were a blur. I think my half-sisters, mom, and Aunt Eleanor held hands and said a prayer. A few of my moms friends came over. Bill and I left shortly after the funeral home came and picked him up.

I do remember the drive home. We took Lakeshore Blvd; about a 15 minute drive. It was well after 3am and all the traffic lights were blinking yellow. Just before we got to the intersection to turn onto our street there was a Walgreens drug store driveway with a stop light. As we approached, the light turned red. We stopped. Out of no-where a large bird walked in front of the car. The light turned green. Bill edged forward. The bird would not move. It looked right at me. I can remember the chills. I know I said, “That’s my Dad.” The light turned red again. The bird looked at me again and flew away.

There have now been ten August 19th’s . I dread each one just as much as the previous year. This day is the hardest. It sucks. The memories are close and the pain is as raw as it was ten years ago. Tears come quick.

The kids and I will go to the cemetery with my mom. My son, my sweet boy, who’s middle name is George after his Grandad, will brush the grass and dirt from the grave as he does whenever he visits. It makes my mom cry even more when he does that. Then he will take my mom’s hand when she tells him it is time to say a prayer. He will say the only one he knows aloud…..”Now I lay me down to sleep, I pray the Lord my soul to keep. May the angels watch me through the night, and keep me in their blessed sight.”

I know my kids have an angel watching over them through the night, every night.

I miss you Dad. There is a huge hole in our family without you.

We Have A Winner

2010-08-17T09:41:00.000-04:00

I wrote a little essay for the library writing contest this summer. It won 2nd place. I can't wait to head to Bremec's Garden Center and spend my winnings!

Check it, and the other winners, out.

I also won two photo contests this summer.

One for the Great Lakes Medieval Faire.

The other for the Lake Farmpark.

But the best part is that I have people interested in paying me to take pictures! Woo hoo. Maybe, I will finally get paid for doing something I love so much. I feel like I found what I want to do, now I just have to make it happen.

Nothing boosts your self-esteem like a little positive feedback!!

Building Planes

2010-07-31T11:03:00.001-04:00

A few weeks back, when we went to the Lost Nation Airshow, Uncle Sam & Aunt Deb bought some planes for the kids. They needed to be assembled, so it was going to be a little fun project for everyone.

Well, maybe more fun for some.

First, Reagan needed to read the instructions.

Then there was the assembly help.

It contained many small screws, so glasses were needed.

Ready for take-off!

I'll Fly Away

2010-07-11T22:55:00.000-04:00

Another beautiful summer week is in the books.

Summer is just flying by.

Speaking of flying we headed to the airshow at Lost Nation Airport for the Gathering of Eagles XIV. Bill and I have gone to this event many times. He even took a ride in the Yankee Lady, a B-17 (~~bucket list~~) a few years before we were married with lots of other "responsibilities." We took the kids when they were just over a year old so Daddy and Uncle Sam could introduce them to one of their passions; military aircraft. It is safe to say that we plan to make this a bi-yearly (because it only comes around every other year) tradition.

We arrived at the airshow and were quickly joined by Uncle John, Aunt Jan, Uncle Sam, & Aunt Deb. Again, 6 on 2 is the best ratio for twinado safety at events like this! It also allows me a little time to take pictures, something I can't really think about when I've got to keep one eye on a Whirling Dervish.

I say it all the time, but the twinadoes are SO SO SO SO lucky to have these four people in their lives. They have cared about them since the day we knew they existed when they were just 4 week in utero-even before that really, they have watched them grow from their first breath, and they are the people (besides Mommy, Daddy, & Grandmas) that the kids love most in this world. They know they are safe with them and better yet, I know they are safe with them.

After the airshow, we all retired to our backyard for some lunch, pool time, and margaritas. Lunch eventually turned into dinner and then a feature of Clifford's Really Big Movie.

It was an unexpected day of awesomeness. Sitting around with friends, a margarita in hand, watching planes fly over our house while the kids bopped around in the pool. No deck work, no housework, no errands.

A mini vacation in our own backyard.

We should do that more often!

Perfect Weekend....Almost

2010-07-05T15:25:00.000-04:00

It has been a near perfect weekend at the pchak house. The only dark spot was finding out the news that an old friend of Bill's passed away suddenly in her sleep at age 53.

For the last 2 years we dialed back our 4th of July festivities considerably. With two babies, a new house with lots of construction, and just being plan tired all the time, I couldn't think about having 80 people over for a cook-out. This year we decided to ramp things up and get back in the swing since we have a lovely new deck. Next year when level 2 of the deck is complete, I think we'll be back to warp speed for the festivites, so put it on your calendar now: July 3, 2011.

As always when hosting a large party, I feel like I never get to spend quality time with people. I'm either checking to make sure the kids are OK, setting up food stuff, or passing out jello shots (an 11 year old tradition.) I always hope everyone is having fun.

The 4th is the only time I miss our Euclid house since we could just move the party to the front yard for fireworks viewing. We can't do that at our house now, but we do have the lake, which offers awesome sunsets almost every night in the summer. I'll take that over fireworks any day. (Euclid also cancelled their fireworks display this year, so I didn't even spend 1 minute missing our old house this year.)

Great food & drink, wonderful friends to share it with, a beautiful sunset, lots of friends for the twinadoes to play with, and the memories of those that are no longer with us.

We are blessed.

Adios, Mexico

2010-06-28T16:50:00.000-04:00

It was over in the blink of an eye.

I am SO glad to have finally gotten a break from life as a stay-at-home mom. Arriving around 4pm on Day 1 and leaving for the airport at 8:15a on day 4, only leaves 48 to decompress, ramp up for some beverages, relax, shop for mexican wrestling masks, eat, drink, eat, drink, swim, eat, drink, drink, ride a bull, drink, and, well, drink. After losing yourself in infertility, pregnancy, infancy, formula, diapers, toddlerhood, and potty training for 5 years I was on the fast track to making every second count though!

I had the best sister-in-crime in Jan. We've never been together longer than an afternoon/evening and never really been just the two for us for any length of time. That did not matter. I haven't talked, listened, and laughed so much as I did in those 4 days. I think we traveled well together and just went with the flow (well, except for when we got stuck in the elevator on the morning of our last day. I went into panic mode and pushed every button 16 times, picked up the non-working phone 3 times, and held the alarm for what seemed like an hour before I pried open the doors and saw that we were only about 6 inches down from where we started!)

We took drunken cab rides into town (twice) to buy Mexican wrestling masks for our hubbies, we hung out in the water despite the red flags being up, we swayed in hammocks, we made friends with a bartender named Elder- but by the 2nd drink he was "Papi" to us, we rode a mechanical bull, we were told we were "the best wives" by several guys who wanted the wrestling masks, and we drank an awful lot of pina colada with bacardi anejo floaters.

We decided the only way the trip would have been better is that Bill, John, Reagan and Nolan were there (on the other side of resort hanging at the kiddie pool, but that way we could still see them :)

The stories are better in person, but the pictures do a pretty good job.

I find Mexico very beautiful. I hope you do too!

Contest Winners

2010-06-23T21:47:00.002-04:00

Sorry, I didn't close the contest on the 20th, but things got crazy around here with my Grandpa's funeral.

The winners are Dave W and Coleen R.

Please let me know the best way for me to get your prize to you and I'll work it out when I return from vacation.

Congrats!

Reservation at the Heavenly Inn

2010-06-22T17:22:00.000-04:00

We laid my Grandpa to rest on Monday. It was a very nice send off and I think he would have been happy with it.

My Mom & Uncle Bob gave eulogies and I've been thinking about my Uncle Bob's every since.

My Grandpa loved to eat. He would sneak away from my Grandma at family outings and shove as much food in as he could. She would realize he was gone and would yell, "Harry, where are you and what are you eating?!" He'd always come around the corner, mouth half-full mumbling "Nothing" and have three or four cookies sticking out of his pocket. It was very hard to see him waste away to nothing since he developed esophagus pouches several years ago and could not swallow, but I digress.

In Uncle Bob's eulogy, he said he'd like to imagine that the first thing Grandpa did when he got to heaven was to make a reservation at the finest restaurant, the Heavenly Inn, for 27 people; himself and everyone in his family that has gone before him. He named names and recounted a little fact about each person and why they were important enough to be at that table.

What a mental image that is. All those people gathering around one table again. Happy to see one another and talking about what has happened on earth since they left! The food is plentiful, the drink flowing, and the laughs continuous.

It has me thinking about who would be at my table when it is my turn to make that reservation, but that is another post for another day.

Who will be at your table?

Missing My Dad

2010-06-19T08:08:00.001-04:00

Happy Father's Day to my baby-daddy! The twinadoes are lucky to have you.

Father's Day has been tough for me for the past decade and this one will be even worse as we will be putting my Grandpa to rest this weekend.

I was thinking back to my last Father's Day with my Dad and wanted to share something I wrote 10 years ago to give to my Dad on his last Father's Day with us. We all knew the end was coming and, even though I told him everyday how much I loved him I still wanted to say it all to him.

I can't believe it has been almost a decade that he is gone. I am sad for all the things he has missed; my wedding, my babies, and for my kids not having that awesome man in their lives.

I was so lucky to be "Daddy's Little Girl" though.

From the day a little girl is born, she is Daddy’s Little Girl.
It isn’t until later that she realizes why.

Dad, you’ve taught me some of life’s most important lessons,
and some of the more fun lessons of life. I couldn’t
have picked a better teacher myself.

I’ve learned that sometimes you do things you don’t want to-
No matter how cute I looked standing at the bus stop
in my little raincoat, you had to make me go to school,
even though I really didn’t want to, but I think it hurt
you more than it did me.

I’ve learned the power of just being happy for others-
Sometimes, even if you know it’s a mistake, you are
happy for someone because they are happy,
and when they realize they were wrong, you
are there to be a shoulder to lean on.

I’ve learned the importance of putting others needs before yours-
You didn’t really want to put up a pool every
summer, go to Disney World (except for Small
World and Pirates of the Caribbean), or sit in
a frozen tundra so your daughter could go to
a concert, but you did.

I’ve learned that fun things can hurt you if you aren’t careful-
Always wear long pants and a helmet on a motorcycle!

I’ve learned the importance of putting up with little annoyances-
The clicker on my Green Machine drove you crazy,
MTV was your worst nightmare, no more Duran Duran,
or me roller skating to the Bee Gee’s all summer.

I’ve learned the power of a relaxing afternoon in the backyard-
Sometimes the only place to ponder life’s wonders
is in the backyard with a cold beer and a cigar.

I’ve learned that beer still tastes bad & always will-
Ever since the first sip I took in the driveway
at age 10 or 11(that I quickly spit out), no matter
what you say, beer is evil!

I’ve learned that being a daddy’s girl makes me a more interesting woman-
Fishing, shooting guns, Friday night wrestling/tickling
sessions, playing pool, and Saturday lunches at
Beanies have made me a well rounded person.

I’ve learned that knowing another language makes you more charming-
Even if the only thing you can say is “le livre est sur
le tableau” or sing the refrain from Michele, Ma Belle.

I’ve learned the strength of the word Pride-
One memory I will have with me always is you
telling me how proud you were of me on my
College graduation day. Whenever I doubt myself
I think of that and I know I can endure.

The most important thing I’ve learned is endurance-
In the face of a challenge you’ve
taught me that you can keep going
long after you think you can’t.

Papa

2010-06-18T15:17:00.000-04:00

Sorry I haven't posted this week.

My Grandpa passed away on Monday and the week seems to have gotten away from me.

Bill and I have been debating how to handle the wake/funeral with the kids. We read a bunch of sites and I talked to the kids the other morning about it since they asked me why Grammy was sad. We talked about how Papa is not breathing anymore and his heart is not beating and that he is up in heaven and we can't see him anymore. Nolan asked if Papa was holding Chandler, our cat who left us in December.

I've been very careful to not tell them his is sleeping or resting. I don't need them to worry about going to bed at night. Reagan is already showing a fear of the dark and needed to go to bed with a flashlight the other night.

I asked them if they wanted to see Papa one last time and say a final goodbye. They both said yes, so we will see how that goes.

Canning Party

2010-06-14T07:00:00.002-04:00

Yes, I know, how very Amish sounding, right?

As you may or may not know, over the last several years I have turned into my Granny Pike. I raise some our veggies in the summer and try to can or freeze as much of it as I can to get use through the l-o-n-g winter. If only I could duplicate her homemade pizza, I'd be all set. Oh, and crochet like she did, too. If you didn't know her, she was an amazing woman who raised 3 sons (and most of the other kids in the neighborhood) on a coal miners salary (at least what Pappy didn't spend at the "company store" on Friday nights.)

Anyway, back to canning. Being the savvy shopper that I am, I got hooked up to host a canning party by Ball®. They sent me an awesome "party pack" that included all new untensils, a stainless steel water bath canner, coupons for free jars, and goodies to give away to my guests.

They suggested we make zesty salsa and pepper jelly, so that is what we set out to do.

We chopped.

We diced.

We simmered.

We ladled.

We put the lids on.

We canned!

We ate & drank a little, too.

It was a really fun time and, I hear, the pepper jelly is awesome over some cream cheese and crackers. I'm holding out to taste it.

If you are intersted in canning and would like to get together to try more recipes, I'd be happy to try it along with you using my new stuff. Just let me know.

I also have, drumroll please, my first ever blog giveaway! Please leave a comment here and I will randomly selected two winners of a Ball® party pack. Contest ends 6/20/2010.

Waldameer- It's My Magic Kingdom

2010-06-10T08:52:00.000-04:00

I've lived in NE Ohio for 30-something years. It was only last year that I first heard about Waldameer in Erie, Pa, a short 90 minute drive away.

It has a little feel of Cedar Point, a lot of Geauga Lake, and (according to my mom) some Euclid Beach thrown in as well. It is much smaller than any of those, but it is awesome and not overwhelming for the 3 year old crowd.

The twinadoes walked the whole park, several times. There were plenty of shaded spots to rest. You can bring your own food and drinks and there are loads of picnic spots. We ordered the main part of the meal there and I supplied the snacks, sides, and beverages. It was $20 for 2 burgers, 9 nuggets, a bucket of fries, and a slice of pizza. Not bad.

I have to say, the twinadoes do a lot of fun stuff, but this was one of the best days ever. There was no whining, everyone got along and we all so much fun. A magical kingdom for us!

Next time we go, we will check out the water park. It was a cool 70 degree day, which was perfect for the rides, but not the water.

If you have kids under 11-12 and are in the area, GO! Like me, you'll be planning your return trip!

Full photos here.

Busy, Busy, Busy

2010-06-07T22:41:00.002-04:00

Life has been crazy and I feel like the only time I have to write is at 11p, when I am dead tired and wouldn't do a post justice. It is just the way life is at the moment. The kids have begun to resist the afternoon so I don't even have that much of a break anymore.

The weekend was packed, as usual. Friday we headed to St. Clare's festival to see our friends band, Abby Normal and the Detroit Lean. Check them out, they are a lot of fun and are playing a couple of all-age shows this summer, so the twinadoes will be getting their dance on. Nolan was having a blast, dancin' his little heart out. Reagan was, oddly, quiet. She hung by me or her Daddy most of the night. She did enjoy some lemon ice. Guess we all have our off days.

I hosted a canning party compliments of Ball Canning this past weekend. It was a lot of fun and has motivated me to can more this year. I usually only do pickles, but I think I'm going to start doing some jelly. At the rate Reagan goes through toast, it would be a wise idea. Plus, I will control what goes in it.

We are heading to Waldameer in Erie, PA this week. Should be a fun day trip. I'll let you know.

Last Paci Standing

2010-06-03T15:40:00.001-04:00

As I've written before, our boy ~~likes~~ loves his paci.

We went through a ton of the green soothies that he got in the hospital. In desperation when he was about 4 weeks old, I placed an overnight order for more, because we were down to the last one! I didn't realize you can find those in most stores and was in a panic. I chalk it up to being sleep-deprived, still recovering from the c-section, and packing up a house so we could move.

Anyway, since he tossed his car paci months ago, he has had two blue soothies in his bed. A few weeks ago, one got a hole and he hopped out of bed and tossed it in the trash.

This morning as I was clearing some of the toys that magically end up in his bed, I looked at his lone paci and it, too, had a hole. I told him about it and he said, "it's the last one, but I have to throw it away." Off he went.

I was worried all morning about what nap time was going to be like, it is literally the first time in 37 months he hasn't had that thing stuck in his yop to soothe him to sleep.

I should have known better, my easy-going boy is up there singing himself to sleep. Not a cry about the paci.

If only potty training were going this well :(

A Day Out With Thomas

2010-05-31T17:32:00.000-04:00

The twinadoes latched onto Thomas the Tank Engine & his friends months ago. Unlike all the other characters they have fallen for (and quickly fallen out of love with), their love of Thomas has stuck around, so I had no problem dishing out the bucks for the "Day Out With Thomas" event on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad.

It killed two birds with one stone; their first train ride and the obvious Thomas festivities.

I have to say, other than the Vegas-style gift shop, you know the kind you have to go through to get ANYWHERE else, it was AWESOME!

There was story-telling, bouncy houses, a maze, play areas, model railroads, a meet & greet with Sir Topham Hat, a tattoo tent, and best of all the 30 minute ride with everyone's favorite blue engine himself (even better was the fact that the coach was air-conditioned. A bit of relief from the 86 degree day.)

And reason #1,376 why I love my kids. They picked musical toothbrushes as their souvenirs!

Full photos here.

A Real Circus Act

2010-05-29T10:06:00.000-04:00

I'll let the pictures speak for themselves, but let's just say the kids LOVE some Uncle John time.

Birthday Parties

2010-05-27T04:48:00.002-04:00

Ok, I'm going to wimp out and post the links to the photos. They say more than I could ever say about the fun the kids had at their birthday parties. All three of them.

May 10, 2010- 3 years old

May 10 Dinner

Memphis Kiddie Park.

Birthday BBQ.

Splish, Splosh, Splash

2010-05-26T15:52:00.001-04:00

We ♥ Daniels Park. The playground is a lot of fun, but there is NO shade anywhere to be found inside the fences of the playground. After an hour the twinadoes were sweating and ready to cool off, so we headed down to the river.

A boy and his boat.

Sidearm. Hey, it worked for Bernie Kosar!

Cooling, refreshing, and a sandy mess. Just like kids should be in the summer.

If you haven't been to Daniels Park, put on your water shoes and head over.

It's Coming

2010-05-25T07:58:00.000-04:00

I have been very bad about posting any updates & pictures. Things have been crazy and with better weather the twinadoes want to be outside all the time.

Their birthday festivities this past weekend were a hit. They had a blast at Memphis Kiddie Park, as did some of the adults! It was delightful to see my kids having so much fun with UB and Aunty Kathy.

Planning a kid party and a BBQ in the same day was not my most brillant idea, but it worked with the help of friends and neighbors. We only had about 90 minutes once we got home from the kiddie park to set up for the BBQ.

We are looking forward to the next couple days of 80+ weather and the big surprise this weekend for the twinadoes: Thomas the Train at Cuyahoga Valley Line. They have never been on a train, let alone THE train of their dreams!!! I can't wait.

If you are in C-town, enjoy this summer weather!

3 Year Pictures

2010-05-18T16:14:00.000-04:00

If you recall, the Christmas/2.5 year pictures did not go so well. I took them to Target by myself and we were lucky the Christmas tree was still standing in the studio when we left. They truly were twinadoes that day. Prior to that, the 2 year session was not much better and the family portrait session with the Grandma's was probably the worst ever!

So, needless to say I prepared for the worst. But I didn't get it! They did really well. The photographer asked me if Nolan ever stops smiling. No, he doesn't. Reagan was in top form and was having a good time, too.

Phew.