Our Boyz

2012-01-29T15:30:00.004-05:00

january

a new year, really?

i remember how long a year took to pass when i was little,

it felt like forever,

but now that i am older and need more time,

where does it all go?

*****

a relaxing day at duke gardens...

what a great day!

2012-01-29T15:14:00.004-05:00

christmas

okay, so i know this is a little (or a lot) late,

but life just doesn't seem to slow down.

i don't want to overwhelm myself with catching up on ALL the posts i have missed,

so i will just touch base on a few of our highlights in december.

we made our yearly tradition of

baking and building gingerbread houses,

(an all time favorite at our house)

had a pre-christmas dinner with friends,

made oodles of homemade christmas candy & goodies.

christmas eve was full of traditions...

popping popcorn

(regular and carmel corn)

watching polar express

opening christmas pj's

reading the christmas story from the sc

riptures

and spending time together.

2011-12-02T20:43:00.002-05:00

gratitude

(day 30)

today I am grateful for the Christmas season.

there is always something magical about this time of year

and spending it with kids makes it even more magical.

2011-11-29T10:38:00.004-05:00

gratitude

(day 29)

today i am grateful for Christmas music.

it is one of my favorite things this time of the year.

there is something about it.

the way it brightens your mood

and can remind you of the true meaning of Christmas.

i love it.

2011-11-29T10:19:00.002-05:00

gratitude

(day 28)

today i am grateful for family night.

we aren't always faithful with our weekly family night,

but we try.

tonight we read a christmas story and ate homemade carmel popcorn.

2011-11-29T10:18:00.002-05:00

gratitude

(day 27)

today i am grateful for landon.

what an amazing little guy.

he loves everyone and everyone loves him.

landon makes life better.

2011-11-27T20:29:00.002-05:00

gratitude

(day 26)

today i am grateful for love.

i am surrounded by it.

i have a husband and 4 boys that fill my world with love everyday.

from hugs and kisses

to all the kind deeds,

i LOVE my boys!

2011-11-27T20:19:00.002-05:00

gratitude

(day 25)

today i am grateful for "date night."

evan asked a young women in our ward to babysit

so he could surprise me and take me out for my birthday.

(it was a shocking surprise, since this is the first time we have had all the kids babysat

since moving to north carolina by someone other than their grandparents)

what an amazing surprise....

thanks babe!

2011-11-24T17:49:00.002-05:00

gratitude

(day 24)

today i am grateful for family.

my husband and boys

my dad and mom

my grandpa's and grandma's

my dad and mom-in-laws

my brothers and sisters

my brothers and sisters-in-laws

my nieces and nephews

yes..ALL of you.

Thanks for all you do!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

2011-11-24T17:48:00.002-05:00

gratitude

(day 23)

today i am grateful for a library (within walking distance).

we walked to the library as we often do.

the boys love going to check out new books and movies

and the walk is fun too.

2011-11-24T17:43:00.003-05:00

gratitude

(day 22)

today i am grateful for ethan.

he is a hugger.

if you have a bad day and you need a hug,

he is right there.

Thanks Ethan, I love your hugs!

2011-11-24T17:22:00.003-05:00

gratitude

(day 21)

today i am grateful for the opportunity i had to volunteer in kaden's class.

they had a catered Thanksgiving Feast.

they dressed up like...indians and pilgrims

and ate a huge feast.

if you ask me, kaden makes one cute indian.

2011-11-20T18:39:00.002-05:00

gratitude

(day 20)

today i am grateful that Evan made dinner.

he was on call and at work for most the day today,

so i took the kids to church.

when i got home Evan had dinner already made.

(even though he worked all day and just got home himself)

2011-11-19T20:37:00.003-05:00

gratitude

(day 19)

today i am grateful for kaden and his smile.

his smile along with his eyes,

could melt anyones heart

and they get me every time.

see what i mean?

2011-11-19T20:28:00.002-05:00

gratitude

(day 18)

today i am grateful for the beauty that surrounds us.

i was going through some of my photos and came across this...

what a beautiful world we live in.

2011-11-17T15:34:00.001-05:00

gratitude

(day 17)

today i am grateful for a girls night out.

some of the girls in my ward invited me out tonight

and I am looking forward to it.

it is a much needed night out, it doesn't happen very often.

2011-11-17T15:27:00.003-05:00

gratitude

(day 16)

today i am grateful for Braxton.

he is an amazing brother and son.

he always tries his best and

is willing to work hard for what he wants.

he is always willing to help me.

2011-11-17T15:26:00.001-05:00

gratitude

(day 15)

today i am grateful for the park.

landon and I met up with a friend at the park today.

the weather was perfect

and the company was even better.

2011-11-17T15:22:00.002-05:00

gratitude

(day 14)

today i am grateful for fall.

all of the beautiful colors of leaves,

the holidays,

and the wonderful smells of baking.

2011-11-13T19:57:00.003-05:00

gratitude

(day 13)

today i am grateful for time.

time to just be.

time to think and ponder.

time to lounge in my pajamas.

time to sleep in.

2011-11-13T19:49:00.002-05:00

gratitude

(day 12)

today i am grateful for "sports" friends.

we have made some amazing friends

through braxton's basketball and football organizations.

we know all the kids by name and root for each of them like they are our own.

2011-11-11T13:30:00.002-05:00

gratitude

(day 11)

okay, today i am grateful for kisses.

i love when my boys give me kisses each morning before school and

that Evan kisses me each morning before he goes to work.

i especially love the random kisses my boys give me throughout the day.

(landon just came up to me minutes ago, climbed up on my lap, and gave me a kiss)

it is amazing what a kiss can do for my day.

2011-11-11T13:26:00.002-05:00

gratitude

(day 10)

today i am grateful for MY MOM!

what better way to follow my post from yesterday.

i have the absolute BEST mom ever.

i know you all think you do, but really...truly my mom is the best!

i am so thankful for her amazing frozen dinners

she packed in my freezer before she left.

they come in so handy.

we love them!

Thanks MOM!

2011-11-11T13:18:00.004-05:00

gratitude

(day 9)

today i am grateful for MY DAD :)

(he had to give me a hint that i hadn't said i was grateful for him yet)

i am sure i would have gotten around to it,

because not a day goes by that i am not thankful for

such an amazing father.

i am grateful that he is my Mr. Fix It,

because without him i'd be doing it all myself, lol.

while my dad was here he helped me surprise Evan with

"new floor makeover" in his office.

it looks great and Evan loves it!

Thanks DAD!

(these are pictures before we got it all back together)

2011-11-08T16:11:00.002-05:00

gratitude

(day 8)

today i am grateful for the sun.

it is such a beautiful day today, almost 70 degrees.

it was great to be able to enjoy the warmth the sun brings.

a bike ride, basketball, and a walk.

i am looking forward to another beautiful day tomorrow.

2011-11-07T18:23:00.004-05:00

gratitude

(day 7)

today i am grateful for my husband.

there are so many reason why,

but today i am thankful because he made time to take the kids to school.

i know it may not seem like much, but when you are so used to doing it all yourself,

because of your husbands overwhelming schedule...it is a lot.

so today i am thankful for Evan.

2011-11-07T18:19:00.002-05:00

gratitude

(day 6)

today i am grateful for Sundays.

i love sundays simply because...

we have more family time, more gospel time, and more time for sleeping in.

2011-11-07T18:08:00.004-05:00

gratitude

(day 5)

i am grateful and proud to be a "football mom"

i love it.

sitting on the sidelines and cheering Braxton on

feels AWESOME.

this year Braxton's team (the Pirates)

made it to the playoffs, they were a great team.

unfortunately they lost their game on saturday and

weren't able to go to the championship.

i am going to miss our weekly games at the football field,

but look forward to cheering all of my boys on next year.

(isn't he cute! don't tell him i said that:)

2011-11-04T19:36:00.002-04:00

gratitude

(day 4)

today i am grateful for Fridays.

wow, it has been a crazy week.

i am definitely ready for the weekend.

we can stay up late, sleep in, and spend time together.

2011-11-03T13:12:00.003-04:00

gratitude

(day 3)

today i am grateful for "early day" at school.

me and the boys are eating lunch and enjoying the outdoors together.

i often feel like there is not enough time during the week

to really enjoy time with my boys.

we are often running from here to there

and finishing up our daily routines.

so, today i am thankful for more time.

(playing football has become a regular occurrence at our house)

2011-11-02T13:45:00.003-04:00

gratitude

(day 2)

today i am grateful for landon's preschool therapy program.

it is something landon looks forward to every week.

he used to avoid therapy, but now he is excited about it.

he has friends going through some of the same struggles in life

and a teacher and therapist who are amazing.

2011-11-02T13:35:00.002-04:00

gratitude

(day 1)

{thankfulness, gratefulness, or appreciation}

ok so i know there is several things that i need to update my blog on,

but until i get to that,

i decided last month i wanted to list something i am grateful for everyday in November,

so here i go.

i am grateful for reading time with my boys.

tonight i started reading Diary of a Wimpy Kid (kaden's choice)

it is actually pretty funny.

i catch myself remembering back

when i was a kid and thinking some of the same things.

2011-09-27T14:45:00.007-04:00

SIX

last week kaden celebrated his 6th birthday.

kaden is our MR. PERSONALITY...

there is never a dull moment with this kid.

from the things he says to the things he does

this kid makes us laugh.

he makes everything so much fun,

our life wouldn't be the same without him.

INTERVIEW:

what is your favorite color?

"blue"

what is your favorite movie?

"uh..star wars"

who is your best friend?

"Asa & Serach, I mean Isreal and my brother's and my sisters and my cousins."

(me) Kaden you don't have sister's.

"oh yeah."

tell me three words that describe you?

"I'm nice, and I'm a man."

(me) Laughing...

"...no don't write man...I'm funny"

what is your favorite treat/snack?

"my favorite snack is mixed chips"

(munchables)

what is your favorite drink?

"it's, it's gatorade."

if you could live anywhere, where would it be?

"in a house"

what is your favorite subject in school?

"umm, umm...workshop because you get to read and go to the computers."

if you could do anything for a whole day, what would it be?

"i start out the day playing star wars and then play with the football guys I got for my birthday.

what is your favorite time of the year?

"I'll go with winter"

why?

"cause it is could and you get to play in the snow."

what is your favorite toy?

"it's my lego star w

ars guys."

what do you want to be when you grow up?

"I don't know, cause I would like to be a chef, and a policeman, and a fireman, and a doctor."

what was your favorite part of your birthday?

"turning six."

what is your favorite thing we have done as a family?

"me driving the 4-wheelers at the cabin with grandpa, grandma, and the family."

(Kaden kept telling us that he was going to stick his face in his birthday cake,

well I guess he decided a cupcake would be better. We have no idea where he got this idea.)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KADE!

2011-09-27T14:39:00.005-04:00

first day of school

once again i was not ready for this.

kaden stated school this year.

my little boy is growing up...

kaden has been waiting so long for this day.

he is a september baby, so had to wait an extra year.

Kaden (kindergarten)

Ms. Hickman

Ethan (2nd grade)

Ms. Eten

Braxton (4th grade)

Mrs. Simmons

did i just say 4th grade?

oh my goodness where does the time go?

2011-09-27T14:33:00.007-04:00

are you ready for some

FOOTBALL???

Braxton sure is.

as soon as we arrived home from our summer vacation

braxton started TACKLE football.

(i definitely was not ready for this, i am sure it is a mom thing)

braxton wanted to start off playing quarterback

just like his dad,

but they put him in as the corner back.

however after they saw braxton,

his ambition, hard work, and technique

they decided he would play second string QB.

YEAH!

I am so proud of braxton.

he works for what he wants.

2011-06-25T15:34:00.003-04:00

constraint camp

(day 10)

theme of the day:

GOODBYE

today was the final day of camp.

it was definitely a bittersweet moment.

they had the fire trucks come this morning

(landon absolutely loved them)

they did some cleaning therapy

had a parade for the parents

we watched a slide show

(tear jerker, i don't think there were many dry eyes)

ate cake

and said our goodbyes.

i will be forever grateful to all those who volunteered

their time, especially Holly (who created this camp).

this is an amazing program.

we have met so many wonderful people

and made so many new friends.

THANK YOU!

things landon has learned/improved on:

opening & closing fist

eating & holding juice box

gripping

holding toys in right hand

pointing with one finger

raising hands above head

landon, we are so proud of all your hard work.

keep it up, we love you!

2011-06-25T15:22:00.004-04:00

constraint camp

(day 9)

theme of the day:

DOG DAYS

today they brought in therapy dogs for the kids to play with.

they got to pet them,

throw balls for them,

feed them,

and watched them jump through hoola hoops.

i was so nervous for DOG day.

landon is terrified of dogs.

he runs screaming every time our neighbors dog is outside.

Lauren said that he actually pet the dog (very cautiously).

he wouldn't get too close,

but loved throwing the balls for them.

these next picture are things that he has never been able to do,

but because of this amazing camp he is able to do them now.

(eating and holding a juice box)

easy for your average kid, but huge accomplishment for landon.

2011-06-25T15:11:00.003-04:00

constraint camp

(day 8)

theme of the day:

SAFARI

today was full of so many great activities.

they took the kids on a safari, searching for anaimals

(landon found a zebra and a tiger)

they made binoculars (2 tp rolls & yarn)

they made two different lions

they played finger puppets with tattoo's on their hands

wow! today was packed with so much fun.

landon's favorite thing was the tattoo puppet.

he did so great opening and closing his hand.

(he struggled with this activity, but does it so well now)

look at how great he is doing, yeah!

2011-06-25T14:10:00.003-04:00

constraint camp

(day 7)

theme of the day:

SPACE DAY

today at camp they did activities in space.

they made flying saucers and tin aliens

watched the stars in the dark room

and flew rockets.

so FUN!

landon has come home so excited every night.

he is exhausted, but can't wait to do it again tomorrow.

this is landon and braxton after camp at 5:30.

they are both working & playing hard.

i wish i could curl up next to them.

2011-06-22T11:40:00.002-04:00

ethan has glasses

drumroll, please....

look at my handsome little boy,

he is so grown up

and so sophisticated

but, still full of laughter.

2011-06-22T11:18:00.003-04:00

constraint camp

(day 6)

theme of the day:

Karate/Tie Dye

they brought in karate instructors to teach the kids a few moves.

Lauren said that Landon loved every minute of it.

he even came home and showed us some of his new moves.

so adorable!

they made tie dye t-shirts.

landon was so excited to show us his.

he did such a great job, his was one of the best looking ones.

he wanted to wear his t-shirt again this morning.

Landon has been completely exhausted everyday after camp.

this is him last night at 5:30. he slept until 7:15 this morning.

he woke-up ready to go again,

excited to see Lauren and Macy.

2011-06-22T11:08:00.003-04:00

basketball camp

braxton started his basketball camp on monday.

9:00-4:30, a long day.

7 1/2 hours of camp and this boy still comes home to play more basketball.

2011-06-22T10:55:00.002-04:00

constraint camp

(day 5)

theme of the day:

BUGS

today, the life and science museum

brought bugs & butterflies to the camp and let the kids touch them.

landon's therapist said that the only one he touched was a cockroach.

(REALLY? of all the things.)

landon has always been scared of things that move,

so i was surprised he even touched anything.

they made these adorable caterpillars for the yard.

landon was so proud and excited to bring his home

and show all of us what he made.

they painted pictures of bugs

went on a bug hunt

and so much more.

what a great day!

i can't believe how much fun landon is having.

this camp is such hard work for these kids,

but they all love it!

2011-06-22T10:42:00.002-04:00

constraint camp

(day 4)

theme of the day

father's.

landon woke up excited for camp.

he is full of energy and ready to go.

today it was all about activities and crafts for dad.

they painted bird houses (for their dad's)

drew pictures

sang songs

and lots of other fun things.

later that day they had a picnic for all the campers

and their families.

we had a great time getting to know everyone

and hearing their stories.

(unfortunately we forgot to take pictures)

2011-06-18T20:11:00.003-04:00

constraint camp

(day 3)

theme of the day...pirates

Argghh Matey!

today was full of

treasure hunts

sword making

pirate ship making & sinking

mustaches & goatees

bandanas

and singing.

it was so fun to see all the kids dressed up

and imitating pirates.

i had the opportunity to volunteer at the camp today

it was such a wonderful experience, i loved it!

these kids are simply AMAZING!

(along with all the therapist & volunteers)

we have already noticed an improvement in Landon

and his functional movements.

we noticed him pointing(with his hand, not his finger),

and giving his brother high 5's today after returning home.

it may not seem like much, but for Landon it is a lot.

Landon was exhausted after camp today.

he fell asleep as soon as i put him in the car seat.

after a nap and some restored energy,

he is already asking about tomorrow.

2011-06-17T21:27:00.004-04:00

ethan has contacts

today i had an eye appointment for Braxton & Ethan.

I knew braxton was needing a new prescription because he has been squinting a lot,

even when wearing his glasses/contacts.

ethan has also been complaining that he can't see the board very well a school,

but we weren't sure if he really needed glasses/contacts.

well, it is official...

ethan has contacts.

we will be ordering his glasses tomorrow,

but until then he will be wearing contacts.

he learned to put them in today.

it took a few tries to get used to it,

but overall he does pretty good.

i was hoping all the kids would take after me,

but so far the odds are against us.

2/4!

2011-06-17T21:13:00.003-04:00

Constraint Camp

(day 2)

today Landon woke up so excited to go to camp.

they start off camp in their PJ's

so they can learn to dress themselves.

Landon has really taken to a girl named Macy.

the first thing Macy did this morning was run up to Landon and give him a great big hug.

it is so adorable.

they were instant friends.

Landon also really likes his therapist Lauren.

she is amazing.

so loving and sweet.

Landon has always loved "Buddy".

they have a special bond.

a goodbye hug is a must for them.

(landon made sure buddy carried him into the school)

Day 2 was another success.

looking forward to tomorrow!

2011-06-16T16:22:00.004-04:00

first day of

Hemiplegia Constraint Camp

we took landon in on tuesday to get his cast made.

they let him choose the color....

i was a little nervous thinking he might pick pink or purple,

but when he came back in the room he had chose...

ORANGE.

(thank goodness i didn't have to be the bad mom

to tell him he couldn't get the color he chose.)

Landon had his first day of camp today.

9:00-3:00, wow! we both made it through okay.

there were a few tears at first,

but his therapist said he did great.

he is pretty attached to Evan & I, so I was so happy to hear he did so good.

(this is the therapist, Lauren, she will be with Landon the entire camp)

in the hemiplegia constraint camp

they put a cast on the non-affected arm,

requiring the child to use the weak affected arm and hand.

they are required to wear the cast the whole time.

to eat, dress, play, etc..

all the children have similar disabilities

and they are all going through a lot of the same things

which makes none of the children feel different or out of place.

Landon made new friends and had a great time.

he is even looking forward to going back tomorrow.

I am looking forward to seeing his progress in 10 days.

what camps are your kids involved in this summer?

2011-06-09T17:02:00.003-04:00

MRI Research Study

Landon was chosen to be a part of an MRI research study

for his Hemiplegia Constraint Camp that he will be participating in this summer.

so we headed over to UNC on monday to get his MRI.

they read landon a book on what to expect,

gave him a teddy bear (sparky) to hold,

and took him to the simulation room (to show how it works).

landon was so brave.

he got on the table, laid down and held really still.

they even let kaden try it to help show landon there is nothing to be afraid of.

the whole time kaden was on the table,

landon held his hand.

it was so adorable. priceless.

the simulation went so smoothly.

however, once we got into the real MRI room

with the much bigger machine,

it wasn't quite as easy.

he did pretty good until he heard the first set of loud beeps.

they scared him.

so the next step was try to get him to take a nap and try again.

he fell asleep fairly quickly,

but didn't sleep too sound

(it was almost like he was sleeping with one eye open)

as soon as we would start he would only get through one or two beeps

before waking up.

so after several tries,

they decided it would be better to bring him back at bed time on tuesday.

MRI- round two

i went over with landon what we would be doing on tuesday

he knew he would be having pictures of his brain taken

and that he would be able to watch Cars.

he knew he had to hold really really still

and go inside a big tunnel.

we also told him he would get his very own big bag of M&M's (his favorite).

so when we arrived on tuesday he seemed kind of excited

we walk into the room

he hops right up onto the table, lays down, and is ready to go.

he rides back into the tunnel and is watching cars.

then the MRI starts along with the loud beeps

and landon is terrified once again.

i comfort him and rock him to sleep

(this time he was sleeping sound)

back in the MRI machine he goes.

he did so good for 1/2 of the MRI, but then the beeps wake him up.

(the beeps get continually louder as the MRI goes on)

so at this point I am comforting him and trying to get him to lay down

when he looks at me with tears in his eyes and says over and over again

"mama, go home now...please, go home now!"

I couldn't take it.

my heart was crushed

i knew right then that I couldn't put him through it any longer.

unfortunately he isn't going to be in the research study,

but since I know he will need MRI's in the future,

i wasn't willing to scare him for life.

(if you are wondering why they didn't sedate him,

as part of the research study they couldn't because of side effects)

landon was such a brave little guy,

so i still bought him his bag of M&M's.

2011-05-29T21:01:00.003-04:00

superhero

a few days ago we were headed home when we saw a turtle in the middle of the road.

since turtles are my favorite animal we couldn't just leave it there.

so evan turned the car around to save it.

evan successfully saved SQUIRTLE

when he got back in the car and we were driving away kaden said...

"Dad you are a superhero! You saved that turtles life."

2011-05-27T21:53:00.004-04:00

swimming

after we returned from greensboro on monday

we couldn't resist going swimming at our neighborhood pool.

(even though we had been swimming all weekend at our hotel)

we are looking forward to many more days spent

swimming at the pool.

2011-05-27T21:32:00.003-04:00

basketball tournament

(Greensboro)

last weekend we went to greensboro

for a basketball tournament.

the team did great!

they just found out that they qualified for nationals

in the 3rd and 4th grade divisions.

way to go boys!

this means that they will be going to

virginia for the 4th grade nationals in July

and florida for the 3rd grade nationals in August.

while we were in greensboro,

we were able to meet up with some old friends.

The Kulesus'

it was so great to see them and catch up on life.

2011-05-10T20:45:00.003-04:00

durham basketball tournament

this past weekend braxton had a basketball tournament.

it started friday night with one game,

and it continued on saturday with three more games.

(braxton shooting a free throw/foul shot)

guess what?

they WON!

they were the tournament champions.

way to go Carolina Crossovers!

2011-05-10T20:13:00.002-04:00

mom (x 4 boys)

my mother's day was amazing.

(and I was even sick with croop)

i was spoiled rotten by ALL the men in my life,

but i guess that is what happens when you are the only princess in the house.

i can't believe how lucky i am.

i am so grateful for my AMAZING boys and the opportunity i have to be a mom.

i would've never imagined being a mom to 4 boys,

but now i wouldn't have it any other way.

***

i am grateful for my WONDERFUL mom.

there is no better example of a mother than her.

she is more than just my mother, she is one of my best friends.

also, a big THANKS to my mother-in-law.

without you Evan wouldn't be the man he is today.

okay, last but not least...

i am grateful to all the mothers out there that i look up to.

there are so many of you.

my sisters, sister-in-laws, and many many friends.

you have all helped me become the mom i am today,

so THANK YOU

and i hope you had a

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY!

2011-04-29T15:40:00.004-04:00

heart-wrenching

today,

for the first time,

landon realized that he is different.

kaden and landon were sitting on my bed watching a movie.

they each had a bag of cereal in their hands.

landon was watching kaden grab a handful of cereal in one hand

and then grabbing them with his other hand and eating them.

landon then proceeded to try to do the same.

after a good effort,

he turned to me and said..

"mom, you help me open my hand?"

(even with my help, he was unable to keep the cereal in his hand)

as i sat back and watched this happen

it was terribly heart-wrenching and hard.

i watched his face expressions change

and the realization come to him.

i watched as disappointment covered his face.

as a mother to a boy with disabilities

i came to expect that one day he would realize that he wasn't

exactly like everyone else, but i never imagined it would happen at age THREE.

2011-04-24T21:40:00.002-04:00

easter celebration

i don't know what it is about easter

but it creeps up on me every year.

i am never ready for it.

always scrambling at the last minute

for easter treats and toys.

finding new fun activities for the boys to do.

we started off our easter celebration with

the traditional coloring of eggs.

i tried to come up with something new this year.

i searched the internet, but didn't find anything i was looking for,

so i came up with an idea on my own.

MAGIC JELLY BEANS

i put jelly beans in a little baggy

and made up a saying to put on top.

it said

"Take these magic jelly beans and plant them in the ground,

As you wake on Easter morning something special will be found."

so what did they find you ask?

a large lollipop planted in the ground.

(the boys loved the idea of magic jelly beans

and are enjoying their lollipops)

another tradition at our house...

the easter egg hunt

READY, SET, HUNT!

we had a great easter weekend.

we are grateful for our traditions we celebrate

together as a family,

but most importantly we are grateful for the

resurrection of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

HAPPY EASTER!

2011-04-24T21:21:00.004-04:00

spring break

the boys have been on spring break for the past week.

we have been spending time at the park and library.

playing basketball, riding bikes, and going to the ($1) movies.

we've been having so much fun, i forgot to take pictures.

braxton has been feeling a little under the weather

the past couple of days, but not so much that he couldn't

enjoy easter.

what did you do for spring break?

2011-04-12T20:17:00.002-04:00

"inspired by you"

last week in basketball practice

braxton and I walked through the doors of the gym and the coach took us to the side

he told us that he was going to start an award each week in practice.

Coach said it would be given to the player of the week.

(the player that works the hardest, never complains, is the most determined,

and never gives up)

Then he continued to tell us that it was "inspired by you (Braxton)."

braxton inspires me all the time,

so i am glad to hear that he inspires others too.

i am so proud!

2011-04-08T12:05:00.004-04:00

braxton's basketball tournament

last weekend braxton had his first basketball tournament.

it was so much fun.

i love being in the crowd cheering for my boy.

all the teams have such amazing talent

in fact, the first thing Evan said when we walked through the door is

"i know exactly where the NBA players come from."

(seriously they are that talented)

after driving over 2 hours and playing 2 games

braxton was exhausted.

we are looking forward to next weekend

and their next tournament.

what sports are you enjoying with your kids?

2011-03-24T21:32:00.003-04:00

pre-school | therapy

landon started his new preschool/therapy program yesterday.

he was so excited and couldn't wait.

i asked him "who's going to school today"

and he would yell "yeah" and throw his arms in the air.

the teachers said he did really well.

he went to the door a few times looking for me

but overall he did great.

I will admit,

even though it is only one day and a few hours,

it was hard to leave him.

2011-03-20T16:32:00.004-04:00

Landon's birthday interview

our little man turned THREE on st. patrick’s day.

Landon is so full of life and is determined to enjoy every moment of it.

to the world Landon may not be perfect or normal, but to us perfection is all we see.

INTERVIEW:

what is your favorite color?

“bue” (blue)

what is your favorite movie?

“woody...toy tory tree” (toy story 3)

who is your buddy?

“umm...woody and grandpa and brax”

what is your favorite treat/snack?

“cereal”

what is your favorite drink?

“troclate milk” (chocolate milk)

what is your favorite toy?

“buzz and my backpack”

your backpack is not a toy.

“uhuh mom!”

what does buzz say?

“finity and veyond” (to infinity and beyond)

what do you want to be when you grow up?

“i wanna be buzz and a doctor like daddy.”

who do you want to go see this summer?

“santa clause and the cabin to see grandpa.”

are you daddy and mommy’s lucky charm?

“yep, i’m daddy’s lucky charm and yours lucky charm.”

Landon has had so many set back and obstacles to overcome this year, he has worked so hard and has accomplished so much. We are so proud of him. We are so grateful and feel so LUCKY that our heavenly father has given us such an amazing little man.

we love you landon.

you will always be our lucky charm.

2011-03-18T21:06:00.003-04:00

landon's (toy story 3) birthday

our lucky charm turned THREE yesterday.

we had a playdate with a couple of his friends

ate cupcakes and ice cream

colored toy story pictures

and played.

later when all the boys got home from school

we played at the park,

ate more cake and ice cream,

and opened his gifts.

landon had a great birthday!

HaPpY bIrThDaY LaNdOn, We love you!

(interview coming soon)

2011-03-10T11:32:00.005-05:00

endings | new beginings

landon had to say goodbye to his

occupational therapist (ann-marie)

speech therapist (karrie)

and

his caseworker (amy).

since landon is turning three next week

he is no longer eligible for the NC infant-toddler program.

we are so grateful that landon was able to be part of such a wonderful program.

he has come so far and accomplished so much because of it.

thank you for

your time

your compassion

your determination

and

your love.

**********

now for the new beginning...

landon has been accepted into the

NC preschool program for special needs.

he will meet his teacher next week and will start the following week.

landon will attend preschool once a week

and he will receive his therapy while he is there.

what endings or new beginnings are going on in your life?

2011-02-27T15:22:00.004-05:00

adventure landing

we were invited to our darling neighbor

Asa's birthday party at adventure landing on friday.

UNLIMITED

laser tag

and

mini golf.

( i don't know if the boys or Evan and I were more excited)

we ALL had such a great time.

we will definitely be going back.

what did you do this weekend?

2011-02-27T15:14:00.004-05:00

give me a kiss...

Landon has been wearing his backpack

around the house for awhile now.

what does he carry inside?

woody

bullseye

buzz

and

his toy story blankie.

what does he say?

"mom, give me a kiss

i go to school."

what do i say?

"okay, have a good day."

2011-02-27T15:05:00.002-05:00

mini-date

ethan and i went on a mini-date last night.

we went out for ice cream.

i love having alone time with each of my boys.

2011-02-14T12:25:00.004-05:00

my valentine (x5).

i have to ask myself...

why did i get so lucky?

i was lucky enough to get

5 valentines, which means...

5 x the love.

5 x the hugs.

and 5 x the kisses.

boy am i a lucky girl!

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

I hope your day is full of love and lots of XOXOXO's!

how will you be spending your valentine's day?

2011-02-07T19:22:00.007-05:00

nine, really?

i keep asking myself...

is braxton really NINE?

am i really old enough to have a NINE year old?

braxton has always been such a great kid.

from the moment he joined our family,

he has always been easy to love

and an amazing helper.

INTERVIEW:

what is your favorite color?

"orange"

what is your favorite movie?

"um...i don't really know. i guess i would choose,

hmm...this is a hard one. i don't know. how about football."

(not really a movie, but i guess i'll give you that one)

who is your best friend?

"john, nasir, elijah, and my brothers...ethan, kaden, landon

and what's the other one? oh yeah that's me."

(we both laughed at that one)

tell me three words that describe you?

"smart, handsome...i don't know, do you think i am handsome?,

and active."

what is your favorite treat/snack?

"probably chocolate."

what is your favorite drink?

"orange juice"

if you could live anywhere, where would it be?

"montana"

why?

"because i would get to be with grandpa and grandma all the time."

what is your favorite subject in school?

"science"

if you could do anything for a whole day, what would it be?

"i would probably play madden 11."

what is your favorite time of the year?

"the summer, because we get a break from school and it is warm."

what is your favorite toy?

"i don't really like a lot of toys, but i love my football

dad bought me."

what do you want to be when you grow up?

"a doctor, actually a football player and a doctor."

what was your favorite part of your birthday?

"having my friends come over and being with my family."

what is your favorite thing we have done as a family?

"when we go to the cabin. i love when we can all spend time together."

HaPpY bIrThDaY bRaXtOn!

we love you!

2011-02-06T19:17:00.004-05:00

movie & game night

we celebrated braxton's and ethan's birthdays by having a

movie & game night party.

our house was full of

boys,

laughter,

and

noise.

we all had so much fun.

we ate pizza

movie theatre candies

popcorn

and of course

cake & ice cream.

we played

madden 11

donkey kong returns

and

carnival games.

we watched a movie

and

had a BLAST!

so glad we were able to celebrate with friends.

what birthday party themes have you done?

2011-02-04T21:22:00.002-05:00

seven

i can't believe it has been SEVEN years since

this amazing little man came into our lives.

ethan is a smart and loving boy.

he can brighten anyones day just by smiling.

(those dimples get me everytime)

INTERVIEW:

what is your favorite color?

"green"

what is your favorite movie?

"i have no idea"

who is your best friend?

"genesis and zane"

(is genesis your girlfriend? "NO, MOM!")

Tell me three words that describe you?

"you decide."

(no...)

"the only thing i know is i'm handsome and you love my dimples."

what is your favorite treat/snack?

"hmmm...whoppers."

what is your favorite drink?

"sprite"

if you could live anywhere, where would it be?

"Utah"

(why)

"because i love grandma and grandpa and living close to them."

what's your favorite subject in school?

"math, totally math, i love it!"

if you could do anything for a whole day, what would it be?

"play donkey kong returns on the wii"

(since he just got it today)

what's your favorite time of the year?

"summer, you know why? because we get to go see grandpa and grandma."

what is your favorite toy?

"hmmm, my hover craft."

what do you want to be when you grow up?

"a chef, you already know that."

what was your favorite part of your birthday?

"that's easy...getting donkey kong and playing it with my friends at my party."

HaPpY bIrThDaY eThAn!

we love you!

2011-01-29T21:53:00.003-05:00

spring fever

landon has spring fever in january.

(pretty sad, huh!)

landon found his swim trunks a few days ago

and has been sporting them ever since.

i'll get him dressed in the morning

and within a few hours he will have changed.

he keeps telling me "we go swimmin' at da pool, mom?

i think we will be filling the tub.

do you or your kids have spring fever yet?

2011-01-29T21:11:00.004-05:00

sayin' goodbye

last week landon said "goodbye"

to a very special person.

joan has been a very important part of his life

for the past 2 years.

She was landon's physical therapist

and she was amazing!

joan helped give landon so many possibilities.

she helped teach, guide, and inspire all of us.

we will be forever grateful,

we couldn't have asked for a better therapist.

joan is going to have a baby any day now.

she will be an amazing mom.

who/what have you said goodbye to lately?

2011-01-13T10:20:00.003-05:00

snow|sleet|rain

what do you get when you put snow, sleet, and rain together?

NO SCHOOL

tuesday we woke up to a sheet of ice covering our streets

so we took advantage of the moment

and a free ice skating rink.

we put on our jackets, gloves, and tennis shoes

then went outside to skate in our cul-de-sac.

we even used our neighbors driveway to skate down.

the boys had so much fun

even though they had many falls.

i am glad we took the time to enjoy the ice.

what did you do today?

************

extra sprinkles

once again

there was no school wednesday

so we got out our baking supplies

and whipped up a batch of sugar cookies.

if you have kids like mine...

don't forget to add extra sprinkles

i think that is their favorite part.

what is your favorite part of a sugar cookie?

2011-01-09T17:50:00.003-05:00

word of the year

i have decided on a word of the year.

my word for 2011 is

MOMENT.

as i have watched 2010 flash by

and my kids grow up right before my eyes

i have decided to enjoy every moment.

whether it be

perfect or imperfect

big or small

i want to enjoy it

make the most of it

and take time for it.

do you have a word of the year?

2011-01-08T15:31:00.003-05:00

in bed with a bug

poor little landon has been sick.

he got strep the second week in december,

we took him back in just before christmas

and he still had strep.

after the holidays were over,

he wasn't getting better and was still having fevers

so once again we took him to the doctor

and they did a whole bunch of blood tests.

the doctor called yesterday

with a few of the results.

he said it looks like he has mono

we will know more when the rest of the results come in.

so now we wait

and keep landon away from everyone.

we will be spending our weekend inside

with board games, movies, and of course some snacks.

what are you doing this weekend?

2011-01-01T19:00:00.003-05:00

goodbye 2010|hello 2011

wishing you all joy and happiness throughout

TWENTY ELEVEN!

2010-12-26T17:00:00.003-05:00

full heart

my heart is full.

full of love and gratitude

for our wonderful family, friends and the savior.

we have been given

an outpouring of love

this christmas season.

******************

white christmas

our dreams of a white christmas came

a little later than expected,

but better late than never.

it started snowing at about 8:00 last night

and continued through the night.

we got about 6".

church was canceled because of the storm,

so we decided to make the most of it.

lots of playing in the snow

and building snowmen.

did you have a white christmas?

2010-12-24T10:41:00.002-05:00

magical time of year

"at this magical time of year,

we hope you will all find the time to believe.

it is then that you will discover

the magic and joy that the true meaning of christmas brings.

we love you all and hope you have a very merry christmas.

the kulbacki's"

our Christmas Eve (night) will consist of

polar express

caramel popcorn

board games

and

christmas stories

what will you be doing for Christmas Eve?

2010-12-23T15:15:00.003-05:00

traditions

making and decorating gingerbread houses

has been a tradition in our family for many years

but, i didn't know if we would be able to find the time this year.

yesterday after therapy i had a few extra minutes, so i hurried

and mixed up a batch of gingerbread dough,

pressed it into the mold,

and popped it in the oven.

today after therapy and and a few errands,

we had time to make the icing and

decorate our houses.

braxton made 8 reindeer,

ethan made santa's sleigh,

kaden put up the lights,

and landon had fun licking his fingers.

what a great tradition.

what traditions do you have?

2010-12-18T17:04:00.002-05:00

santa's lap

yesterday i took kaden & landon to see santa.

i wasn't sure how it would go,

landon isn't good about going to just anyone

and last year, he cried.

as soon as landon sees santa he starts yelling and waving,

"SANTA...SANTA...SANTA..."

over and over until santa looked at him and waved.

he was super excited.

"i sit on santa's lap mom?"

it only took a couple of minutes and it was our turn.

i told kaden to let landon go first because i wasn't sure how

long his excitement would last,

but he ran right over to santa, hopped onto his lap, and started talking.

it was adorable. i wish i had my video camera.

kaden hopped up on santa's other leg and couldn't stop smiling.

kaden tells me exactly how many days are left

until Christmas on a daily basis.

excitement is definitely filling the rooms of our house.

what is filling your rooms?

2010-12-17T22:11:00.003-05:00

12 years today

(lyrics to the song SMILE by Uncle Kracker)

You're better than the best
I'm lucky just to linger in your light
Cooler than the flip-side of my pillow (that's right)
Completely unaware
Nothing can compare to where you send me
Let's me know that it's okay (yea, it's okay)
And the moments when my good times start to fade

You make me smile like a sun, Fall outta bed
Sing like a bird, Dizzy in my head
Spin like a record, Crazy on a Sunday night
You make me dance like fool, Forget how to breathe
Shine like gold, Buzz like a bee
Just the thought of you can drive me wild
Oh, you make me smile

Even when you're gone
Somehow you come along

just like a flower pokin through the sidewalk crack
And just like that
You steal away the rain
And just like that

Don't know how I lived without you
'Cuz everytime that I get around you
I see the best of me inside your eyes
You make me smile
You make me dance like fool, Forget how to breathe
Shine like gold, Buzz like a bee
Just the thought of you can drive me wild
Oh, you make me smile

see Evan, it is your fault that I dance like a fool.

You are amazing and I love you.

thanks for making me SMILE everyday.

2010-12-10T19:44:00.002-05:00

fall fun

today the boys didn't have school,

so for a little fall fun...

we raked our leaves into a great big pile

and we JUMPED & PLAYED in them.

the boys had so much fun,

maybe we'll do it again tomorrow.

what did you do for fun today?

2010-12-10T18:56:00.003-05:00

mmm...mmm...good

i love baking during the holidays.

there is something about cooking up delicious goodies,

smelling the wonderful aromas that fill every room,

and of course the occasional taste testing.

what's cookin' in this kitchen?

caramels

almond roca

chocolate & carmel covered pretzels

turtles

pumpkin chocolate chip brownies

cheesecake bites

so tell me what's cookin in your kitchen?

2010-12-04T15:02:00.002-05:00

dear santa

i have FOUR very excited boys

that can't wait for christmas

so they are writing you a letter

and sending their love.

From:

a very BLESSED mom

that has everything she needs for christmas,

FULL hands & a HAPPY heart!

2010-11-30T19:00:00.005-05:00

it's beginning

to look a lot like christmas

we've put up the tree

turned on the christmas music

and started baking.

we love christmas!

so we plan to enjoy every minute of the

holiday season.

have you decorated yet?

2010-11-27T18:47:00.003-05:00

so blessed

turkey and ham

mashed potatoes and gravy

homemade rolls

raspberry and pecan pie

a thanksgiving full of YUMMY food.

WOW am I full!

not only from all the wonderful food

but from our many many BLESSINGS.

the last few months,

we have reflected a lot on how BLESSED we are

we have so much to be thankful for.

THANK YOU for touching our lives

whether it was for a single moment

or several years,

we are GRATEFUL for you.

2010-11-15T19:05:00.003-05:00

you've got mail

tonight for family night

the boys wrote a letter to their

grandma and grandpa kulbacki.

signed, sealed, delivered (in a couple of days)

and for dessert, Ethan made us cookies

mmm..mmm..good.

2010-11-14T16:49:00.002-05:00

duke vs boston college

we spent our saturday at the duke football game.

it was an exciting game,

it kept us on the edge of our seats,

(during the 4th quarter)

unfortunately duke lost.

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

lego's lego's & more lego's

a visit to the lego store

was "lego heaven" for kaden.

his eyes get BIG

his excitement goes WILD

and his hands can't help but BUILD!

the first thing he asks when we leave

"mom, when can we go back."

what do your kids love?

2010-11-08T13:06:00.005-05:00

just hangin' out

things kaden and landon love (right now)

while we are just hangin' out.

watching toy story 3

playing hide and go seek.

throwing the football.

kicking the soccer ball.

building with lego's.

i just love hangin' out with these two.

they have such fun personalities

and if i might say so...

they are so darn HANDSOME!

2010-10-31T22:39:00.004-04:00

happy halloween

knock, knock.

ring, ring.

TRICK or TREAT.

very few tricks.

lots of treats.

Halloween was so fun this year.

LOVED

the boys costumes.

the joy in their eyes.

the smiles.

and of course the candy smeared faces.

Landon was the funnest to watch this year.

once he knew that if he said trick or treat...out came a treat

he was all for walking and trucking along with his brothers.

he kept going and going and going

until suddenly he dropped.

sending a very happy halloween to all of you.

what did you do?

2010-10-30T10:33:00.006-04:00

quarter 'til five

our day started early.

we dropped Evan off at the airport at 5.

he will spend his Halloween in San Francisco.

Landon has said goodbye too many times lately.

since we were already up for the day,

we headed to IHOP

for their free scary face pancakes.

went to our ward TRUNK OR TREAT.

enjoyed donuts & apple cider

and of course plenty of candy.

2010-10-23T14:21:00.007-04:00

october update

Life has been a little crazy lately.

GOOD CRAZY.

My Dad and Mom came to visit for a month.

Evan and I went to Chicago.

Did some major remodeling.

**********

Highlights of my Dad and Mom's visit:

Having their helping hands.

Remodeling.

NC State Fair.

Halloween dinner.

Seeing the boys spend time with their grandparents.

Duke Chapel.

Farmers Market.

Evan winning our Thanksgiving dinner.

(I won it last year and Evan won it this year. Turkey shoot.)

Kaden made a plan to make Grandpa & Grandma stay.

While laying in bed one night, Kaden said "Mom,

I have an idea....we can put grandpa & grandma in a chair and

tie them up, then they can't leave." (cutest thing ever)

**********

Highlights of CHICAGO.

Navy Pier.

Wrigley Field.

Soldier Field.

Magnificent Mile.

Millennium Park.

Broadway show.

We ate so much DELICIOUS food.

Chicago style pizza at Giordano's. (yum-o)

Potbelly's.

Portillos.

Garrett Gourmet Popcorn. (amazing)

2010-10-23T14:13:00.006-04:00

Kaden @ five

INTERVIEW:

What is your favorite color?

“Blue”

What is your favorite movie?

“Planet 51”

What is your favorite song?

“you make me dance like a fool..., you know that one?”

(Smile by Uncle Kracker)

What is your favorite sport?

“Football”

What is your favorite snack/treat?

“Umm...my favorite snack is...pretzels.”

If you could live anywhere where would it be?

“here”

Why? “because we are living here.”

What is your favorite drink?

“Lets see...my favorite drink is...sprite.”

If you could do anything for a whole day what would it be?

“That’s easy, I would go to the lego store and buy all the legos.”

What is your favorite thing to do?

“uhh, two things are my favorite, playing with legos and playing the x-box.”

Who is your best friend?

“Asa” (a neighbor)

What do you want to be when you grow up?

“A doctor.”

2010-09-20T21:20:00.007-04:00

chicken pox + lego's

Good news NO SCHOOL for a week.

Bad news lots of ITCHING & CHICKEN POX.

Braxton has the chicken pox even though he has all his immunizations.

********

Kaden turns 5 on Wednesday, so we celebrated yesterday.

Even though Kaden knew we would be celebrating his birthday, he insisted on having a surprise party, so Evan took him for a little walk around the block and came back in.

**SURPRISE**

We all jumped out.

(Me, the boys, and my parents...no one else could come since Braxton had chicken pox)

For his cake, I made several little lego brownie bites and put them in the shape of a 5.

We built the CITY OF KADEN out of lego candies.

He received lots of NEW LEGO'S and couldn't have been happier.

He has played day & night with them since he got them.

2010-09-08T12:56:00.004-04:00

labor day weekend.

Are you ready for some football?

We took all the boys and went to the football game on Saturday.

There was a lot of pre-game activities going on, so of course we joined in on the fun.

There was...

face painting.

a bounce house.

cotton candy.

mini-golf.

The boys had so much fun!

Braxton was involved in every play.

Ethan thought the touchdowns were the best part.

Kaden loved cheering.

(seriously hilarious, I have never seen so much enthusiasm)

Landon loved shaking his pom-pom.

At half-time they had fireworks.

(Landon watched them without crying.)

GO DUKE!

********************

We spent Monday at Duke Gardens with friends.

We had a picnic.

played football & soccer.

and fed the fish.

We had such a wonderful time.

It was a great labor day weekend and I hope you had a great one too.

2010-08-30T19:56:00.007-04:00

class pet.

A pet for a weekend.

Last weekend Braxton was chosen to take home his class pet.

"Hermie"

Braxton was so excited to have a pet for the weekend.

Unfortunately, it only came out of it shell a couple of times.

It was usually ready to play just as I shut off the lights and climbed into bed.

2010-08-19T12:36:00.011-04:00

back to school.

A new school year, two new teachers, and lots of new friends.

The first day of school is always exciting.

Braxton started 3rd grade...

and Ethan started 1st grade.

They are looking forward to the memories they'll make, the people they'll meet, and all the new things they'll learn.

2010-08-17T22:02:00.005-04:00

Goodbye Summer.

Hello School.

Today was Braxton's and Ethan's last day of summer vacation. So I told them we could do whatever they wanted today, it was up to them.

We SWAM.

We made homemade CUPCAKES.

We went for an ICEE.

And we PLAYED and PLAYED some more.

So, today we say GOODBYE summer vacation and HELLO to a new school year.

Ethan is so excited and has been asking for weeks when school was going to start. He woke up yesterday morning so excited because he thought it was the day. I had to break the news to him that he had a couple more to go. Braxton hasn't been sleeping well, because of the first day of school excitement. They are both looking forward to a new year, a new teacher, and making new friends.

Doggie.

2010-08-08T20:18:00.006-04:00

My Doggie, My Doggie

Where ever I go, He's gonna go

My Doggie, My Doggie

My Doggie and Me!

Landon and Doggie go way back. Okay maybe not way back, but they have been together since Landon was born. Doggie was a gift from Grandma Becky. Landon took to him right off.

Where did he get his name you ask? Landon started calling him "Doggie" from the first time he was able to. Not sure why? Since he is a BEAR, but it was so cute. From that time on, he will forever be known as DOGGIE.

Doggie is Landon's best friend. There isn't a day that goes by that they are not together. They have hugged and kissed, talked and listened, slept and played, shopped and dropped. They have done it all. They have a special bond.

A few nights ago we put Landon in bed, gave him his blankie and now Doggie, where is he? We couldn't find him. We tried to put Landon down without him, but it wasn't working. We all worked together, searching high and low, still no Doggie. So we tried giving him a different stuffed animal...."No mommy, No. Doggie, Doggie!" Okay, we searched again. Finally, we found him wrapped in a blanket. Thank goodness!

What is going to happen if we really loose him????