The House of Pannek

Miss Me?

2011-08-10T12:04:00.000-07:00

I'm still around! I've been busy working on my new Frugal/Deal-Seeking/Coupon blog! Yes... I've jumped on to the Extreme Couponing train. Actually I've been on it for awhile, just finally decided to publicize it I guess! (You can check it out HERE or on Facebook!)

Once I get my new design in place (coming very soon!) and the site running smoothly, I promise to catch back up! These boys are still being rascals... plenty to entertain you with!

Is There Something in the Air Today???

2011-06-08T18:31:00.000-07:00

My little people have been like this for the last hour. Seriously... it may even be longer. I am not exaggerating!!! Oh... the NOISE!!!

They had GRAPES for snack today. Not grape candy, not grape juice... plain ole' green grapes!!! I have tried everything to get them to calm down. Yeah... not working so well!!!

One of my triplet-mom friends posted on FB today that her trio was about to turn '3'. She asked everyone to tell her it was going to 'get easier', but not to comment if we were 'giving bad news'. Can I get a LOL???!!!

Needless to say, I chose not to comment!!! The mathematic equation of (3 X 3) > (3 X 2) is extremely accurate... extremely. I guess I should be glad that I pre-made our dinner this morning.

Maybe they'll fall asleep quickly tonight... a girl can dream, right?

Video Games...

2011-06-07T18:00:00.000-07:00

I found Liam like this today. Not only did he figure out how to turn the (Eli's) Nintendo DS on... the kid actually knows how to PLAY the game!!! And... he was talking to it, just like the big boys do. He's turning into a 'tween' right before my eyes!!!

Notice his pillow? Yes, that's Morrie's butt.

It shouldn't surprise anyone. I found the three of them like this, earlier today!

I really need to keep my camera close to me for moments like this. My phone just isn't doing them justice!

Eat, Sleep, Shop!

2011-06-03T15:09:00.000-07:00

It's Friday, and that means it's Target day!!!

It's been a crazy week around here. I might have even considered skipping this week, but E has a birthday party to go to in the morning, and I needed to buy a gift. (That, and the super-cheap deal on sunscreen... !)

I was a little worried about this particular trip. First, we got out of the house much later than usual. These guys are really good first thing in the morning, but today it was almost lunch time. Second, today the choo choo wagon was in the car instead of the Peg. I've got the stroller-pushing-while-pulling-the-cart (with Starbucks in hand), down to a science. I wasn't so sure about pushing the cart and pulling the wagon. It turned out ok... they actually enjoy riding in the wagon. It's just harder for me to see what they are doing when they are behind me. Not necessarily a good thing!!!

Once we picked up three bags of juggling balls from the dollar spot, I headed up to the Target Cafe. When in doubt, feed them, right? I ordered 2 cheese pizzas and they were good to go. The pizza boxes actually make nice travel plates in a pinch! (I have no idea what possessed them to stick their feet out like this... crazy boys!)

They were pretty good today, believe it or not! We cruised through the entire store without any major issues. We had a few sippie cups launched from the wagon, but other than that, no mishaps. (I asked them why they decided to throw the cups, and of course they told me because they were 'empty' %$*&@#!)

I finally made my way up to the register and began to unload my cart. I couldn't help but notice my caboose was extremely quiet... and still.

Poor Aidan... he was so very tired. So tired, that I had to wake him up to put him into the car.

Well... that is, after I shot this quick video with my phone... I just couldn't resist!!!

He sat up somewhere between the exit and the car... but never work up. (Yes, I know the video is sideways. It's still hilarious!!!)

TGIF!!!

Orange for Owen...

2011-06-01T19:12:00.000-07:00

A fellow triplet mom had to bury her 6-month-old baby boy today. While I do not know the family personally, triplet parents share an incredible bond. There are hundreds of triplet families wearing orange today, all in support of Owen Bissing.

Owen went to sleep on May 22nd, but was found unresponsive in his crib shortly thereafter. I can not begin to imagine the pain that his family is feeling right now. I just hope and pray that they can find peace knowing that he is in a better place. Owen leaves behind his triplet siblings, a big brother, and two amazing parents, who found it in their hearts to save the lives of 3 people through the loss of their son.

Owen's family has asked that we honor him by wearing orange. Each of the Bissing triplets has their own color, and Owen's was orange.

Rest in Peace Baby Owen... I will never look at the color orange again, without thinking of you, and the many people you touched during your short time here on earth.

You can read more about Owen and his amazing family HERE.

Matt's Hidden Message...

2011-05-30T18:58:00.000-07:00

This morning Matt offered (under slight duress...) to watch the littles while I took a quick shower. When I came back downstairs, Aidan was wearing only his underwear, Liam had no shirt on, and Luke was still fully clothed... still in pjs, but fully clothed, regardless.

I grabbed 3 shirts & shorts from my laundry pile. I pulled a shirt over Aidan's head, put his shorts on, and moved on to Liam. Once Liam was dressed, I turned to dress Luke. Luke promptly told me "I wait, mama". (Luke is very opinionated and tells me he will "wait" several times a day, here lately.)

Matt was still standing in the kitchen, and he made a weird remark... something along the lines of 'What, Luke? You don't want to change your clothes right NOW?" I found it a bit odd, as he could usually care less what the boys have on while hanging out at home. I didn't think much of it, and went on about my business, while Matt went back upstairs to work.

A few minutes later Luke came over to me and was pulling on his pj pants. He was trying to tell me something... I just couldn't fully understand what it was that he was saying. I thought he was telling me that he didn't want something on his pants??? I figured I'd take advantage of the situation no matter what, and finally get him dressed for the day.

Once I took off his pj bottoms, look what I found...

That husband of mine is some comedian, huh?

I can't help but sense that there's a hidden message in this. I don't think he was feeling any remorse about using one of Liam's overnight diapers on Luke... do you? I mean, seriously... do I seem like the type that would actually give my husband a hard time about using the wrong diaper?

Not sweet, innocent, little ole ME!

{Snicker}

Update on the Triple Bunks...

2011-05-26T17:56:00.000-07:00

We transitioned out of cribs back in February. I have to say I've been pleasantly surprised at how well they've done! I mean, sure... I'm still spending time in a bunk bed every night until they fall asleep, and they don't nap, but at least they aren't sleeping with me in MY bed anymore. Well... most of the time they're not, anyway. Luke's been waking up again during the night the last few nights, and it's either he come back with me, or I stay with him. Truth be told, his bed isn't all that comfortable! The other 2 are sleeping all night long. Two out of three ain't bad, right?

Once everyone is fast asleep (usually within 15 minutes, unless someone has taken a snooze in the car) I sneak out. It's not so bad... I take advantage of the almost-quiet, and catch up on Facebook from my phone. Of course, given I am on the west coast now and most of my FB friends are in Texas, and on the east coast... that's not always a great idea (reality TV). No less than 20 people posted Idol SPOILERS last night, haha!

I always make another pass in their room on my way to bed, to check on them and to cover them up. I just love the site of sleeping children. So peaceful. That's not a word I get to use very often around here.

I was a bit surprised to find an extra kid in the bottom bunk. Sweet Eli... he loves his little brothers.

He was snoring, and out cold, so I left him there for the night.

Imagine my surprise, when I was awaken (at 5AM) by Luke screaming at the top of his lungs. This wasn't his 'Mommy' cry to come and get him. OH NO. This was him screaming VERY ANGRILY (and did I mention LOUD?) for Eli to GET OUT OF HIS BED!!! "E-I.... GET OUT!!! E-I!!! MY BED, E-I!!!" Once I clued in to what it was he was saying, I couldn't help but laugh. It was actually quite funny. Luke didn't think so, but his passionate, over-the-top reaction was absolutely hysterical to listen to, even at the crack of dawn. (It didn't phase E one bit. That child could sleep through a freight train.)

Needless to say Luke came back to my bed... AGAIN. I know he's too little to put two and two together and realize the irony in this, but I'm taking NOTES!

E's Toothless Grin...

2011-05-24T22:00:00.000-07:00

Well... it only took 8 years, 8 months, 3 weeks, and 5 days... but our Eli FINALLY lost one of his front top teeth. (Yes, that Lilypie ticker over there really does come in handy sometimes!)

This wasn't his first one to lose, but not far from it. He lost his bottom two teeth back to back, just a few days after school started this year. Other than that he's still sporting a mouth full of baby teeth.

My guess is that second top tooth won't be far behind. I absolutely LOVE the 'toothless' grin, and he wears it well. Hopefully we'll get to enjoy it for awhile before the permanent teeth break through. Probably unlikely, I know, given the child is already almost NINE! I'm going to enjoy it while I can though!

Our middle child is growing up. {Sniff}.

For the record, I have to add that even though Eli came bounding through the door this afternoon with his prize tooth secured in an envelope (bless his 2nd grade teacher!).... he has since LOST it somewhere in the house.

I'm sure one of the littles will find it tomorrow. Any predictions on what they might do with it?

Share and Share Alike...

2011-05-20T11:10:00.000-07:00

Nothing in this house is mine anymore. Actually it's not anyone else's either... that is, except for the 3, three-year-olds that live here. They have laid claim to EVERYTHING. Let's face it, they run the household.

Poor Morrie can't even find a quiet place to sit, anymore.

The look on his face just cracks me up... I sure wish I could read his mind... you know he has an opinion!!

Again, he's still sporting his Donald Trump/Justin Bieber 'do'. I keep threatening to take the scissors to it, but I'm afraid I may make it WORSE.

He puts up with an awful lot. But he loves them. There's a reason why he has those fat rolls... (which are a lot more noticable with his new hair cut)!

Yet another dirty look.... Ok... I guess I deserve it this time, lol!

If You Feed Them Pancakes For Dinner...

2011-05-19T05:00:00.000-07:00

I generally love to cook. However, tonight I just didn't feel like cooking anything glamorous. I decided to make something easy, that I knew all the kids would eat. I settled on pancakes. Pancakes for dinner... why not?

Hold that thought.

I mixed up a double batch of pancake mix and started flipping them on the griddle. Noah and Eli were still out playing with their friends, but the littles needed to eat.  They were thrilled with their dinner, and each of them cleaned their plate like they hadn't eaten in weeks. Ever hear the expression 'eat and run'? That's pretty much what they did tonight. I figured they had full tummies so I didn't think much of it, and went on making the rest of my pancakes. My kitchen is not in sight of the family/playroom, but I have learned (the hard way) to keep my ears open. I heard the sound of what I thought was the blinds hitting the window, so I knew that the SYRUP was starting to kick in. Oh boy...

Really? I hadn't even finished cooking the rest of the batter! I tried my best to get them settled down, but it didn't last long. (And by the way, I have no idea what happened to Aidan and Liam's shorts...)

I spent the next several minutes running back and forth between the two rooms, but I eventually managed to get all the pancakes made. Noah and Eli were taking their sweet time coming home, so I kept their pancakes warm in the oven. I cleaned up the kitchen, other than the items that N&E would need... like the syrup. BIG mistake.

My innocent, sweet, littles were found pouring the syrup bottle out onto the plates I had left out for the big boys. We're talking 3/4's of Aunt Jemima's body! Given that was my last bottle of syrup in the house, the frugal one in me opted to 'save' it... afterall, it was on a clean plate! Probably not such a good idea in hindsight.

Some how Luke managed to slip by me and made his way to the kitchen, alone. I am always counting children, so it didn't take me long to figure it out. I headed towards the kitchen, and was stopped dead in my tracks. My socks were literally sticking to the floor. I'm not sure what words came out of my mouth at that point. I do know that Matt came fleeing down the stairs from where he had been working.  [He later told me that that was probably the scariest yell he's ever heard come out of my mouth (oops!).] Yes, little Luke climbed up onto the counter, and from what I can tell, attempted to throw my syrup-filled plate across the kitchen like a frisbee. Syrup was (IS) EVERYWHERE... including on my RUG, and in a big way. (At this point Matt is quietly getting the mop.) Oh... and guess when the big boys decided to come home??? Yep. You guessed it. We don't call it the House of Pannek for nothing.

There was so much commotion in my kitchen right about then, nobody even noticed that we had some escapees make their way upstairs. (Liam has learned how to pick the lock.)  I was already planning on putting them in the bath, so I left them up there for a few minutes while I grabbed towels, pjs, etc. Their bathroom is upstairs, and there was no way they were coming back down tonight! I still had laundry piles on the table from the afternoon, so it didn't take me long to get my supplies. While making my ascent up the stairs, I noticed what sounded like a fraternity party, underway in N & E's room. The door was closed, so I wasn't quite sure what I might find (what ELSE today???). I grabbed my camera to see if I could catch it on video. Here's what I found...

(Pardon the blue painter's tape... we have a project underway...)

These boys are CRAZY!!! I couldn't help but laugh. I just love them to pieces!!! What a way to lighten the mood.

Somehow, I still managed to get them bathed, and in bed 20 minutes ahead of schedule.  WHEW!

For the record, it's going to be a LONG time before I make pancakes again.

Triple Zzzzzzzzzz's...

2011-05-18T15:48:00.000-07:00

The littles dropped their nap a few months ago. BOY, do I miss naps. Nap time used to be 'Mommy time'. It's a simple equation... NO naps = NO mommy time!!! Considering they wake up with the chickens, finding time for myself is difficult these days. Showers are overrated anyway, right (%$#@!)?

Yet, if I happen to run an errand in the afternoons, like we did today, this is what happens...

Don't you just love the arms behind the head pose of both Liam and Aidan?

Sure, car-snoozing buys me a few minutes of peace and quiet, which is VERY nice. Unfortunately it usually also means I get to spend extra time in a bunk bed at night waiting for them to fall asleep.

Good thing they're CUTE!!!

Fun For A Buck...

2011-05-17T23:31:00.000-07:00

Today, I did it. I broke out the macaroni necklaces.

These little people were climbing the walls today, so I figured they needed an activity.

I had picked up some pipe cleaners from Target a few weeks ago, and of course I always have LOTS of pasta on hand, considering Noah doesn't eat much else.

Now, if I were a 'good' mom, I would have allowed them to paint the noodles first. Guess I won't be getting that award this year. These boys are not ready for PAINT. Oh no... not even water colors. You should have seen the artistic masterpieces (with YOGURT) that I had to remove from the table before we started this today. Paint? (insert hysterical laughter here...).

Despite the simplicity stringing of macaroni onto pipe cleaners, they LOVED it... and it kept them busy for a good 30 minutes. I even found them back in the kitchen trying to make more on their own.

We spent a big part of the afternoon trying on our jeweled necklaces, headbands, and bracelets. (Yes, I wore them too.)

You might have noticed that Luke is missing from the pictures. He definitely participated, and he loved every minute of it. However, when I finally got around to snapping a few pics with my phone, sweet Luke was off trying to get his Daddy to put on HIS assortment of beautiful jewelry, made especially for him.

Wish I had a picture of THAT!!!

Tape...

2011-05-16T21:46:00.000-07:00

No explanation necessary...

I'll Have Mine With Cream & Sugar, Please...

2011-05-14T09:20:00.000-07:00

My littles don't sleep in. That's nothing new. However, now instead of coming to our room when they wake up, they've started to demonstrate their own independence. Usually they will go in and terrorize Noah and Eli... and I'm completely fine with that! Yet, occasionally I will hear our fortress (gate) clang, which means they have made their way downstairs on their own. I have learned from experience, that upon that sound, it is imperative that I leap from my bed as quickly as possible. On more than one occasion I have come down to find my (locked) refrigerator and/or (locked) pantry unloaded, and them having a smorgasbord breakfast. This usually involves some ungodly combination of sliced cheese, Oreo Cakesters, Doritos, and of course, ice cream sandwiches. It is amazing what they can do in a few short SECONDS. STRENGTH in NUMBERS.

On this particular morning, the gate sounded right on queue... 6:25am. Don't they understand it's SATURDAY? I wasn't moving all that fast this morning. At least not until I heard the clinking of what appeared to be my coffee mugs. I know that sound well. Nine times out of ten it means that they have moved a stool over, climbed on top of, and stood on the counter to reach the candy jar... which happens to be stored on the very top shelf of the same cabinet that my coffee mugs are in. They have practiced... and have learned how to execute this maneuver with extreme precision and skill. Sometimes they are so quiet I never even know they've done it. That is, until I find the glass jar at the top of the stairs with lots of wrappers scattered around it.

So today I jumped up and rand down the stairs. I was ready to BUST them, red handed. Instead, this is what I found...

Seriously???

"We making you coffee Mama!"

Can you tell what I do every morning as soon as my feet hit the downstairs?

Goes to show you they are WATCHING your every move...

How sweet are these ANGELS???

Yep. I'm feeling a pretty guilty right about now.

I wonder if I can teach them how to add my 1/2 packet of Sweet & Low and the cream?

Giddy Up...

2011-05-10T09:03:00.000-07:00

Yes... I have the most tolerant dog on the planet.

I apologize for the poor photo quality. I happened to look up and see Aidan attempting a bare back Morrie ride and didn't have my camera in hand. My phone was in reach, and this was a photo-op I didn't want to miss.

Oh.... and please excuse poor Morrie's hair-do. He had a bad experience at the barber over the weekend. Someday people will learn how to groom a Labradoodle! Poor guy... he looks like a cross between Donald Trump and Justin Bieber.

Our 15 Minutes of Fame...

2011-05-02T12:01:00.000-07:00

Our family was selected to "star" in the pilot for a new mini-sode on the Oprah Winfrey Network. It's called "My OWN Time" and it will air on Thursdays, during the 4:00pm (3:00pm Central) hour Nationwide. This is a new show and it will air in lieu of commercial breaks during the regularly scheduled program.

Tune in TODAY if you want to catch us in our 15 minutes of fame! I'm excited and nervous at the same time... more like terrified!!!

Click HERE to watch a preview of what's to come!!!

Let me know if you see it! Given I am on the west coast, you may see it before I DO!!!

Edited to add: It will repeat tomorrow (Tuesday 5/3), if you missed it!

I Scream, You Scream...

2011-04-27T13:01:00.000-07:00

I was sitting in the den with Aidan, when all of a sudden my other two squealing littles flew in singing "we got THIS... we got THIS!!!". I knew that they were in to something... they were quiet. I looked up to find both Luke and Liam dancing around, waving full sized ice cream sandwiches in the air.

I couldn't help but laugh. I asked them to show me where they got them, and followed them to the kitchen. Aidan raced behind us to make sure he got his fair share. (Aidan doesn't miss much when it comes to food...) I rounded the corner to the kitchen and found my formerly-hidden, box of ice cream sandwiches open, and in the middle of the floor. The freezer door was still wide open, and my quickly-becoming-ineffective, refrigerator lock was in the dog bowl (along with one of the ice cream wrappers).

Fortunately, I had already fed them lunch...

I certainly can't deny that these are my kids...

But I've got some happy littles right about now...

Liam was kind enough to give me one too. I figured, why not?

We all scream for ICE CREAM!!!

Thanks, Easter Bunny...

2011-04-25T10:45:00.000-07:00

The Easter Bunny managed to find his way to our house again this year!

The littles loved finding eggs everywhere... especially once they learned they were filled with candy! No need to waste time filling baskets at our house... candy was being consumed at lightning speed.

Thanks to Max & Ruby, they were expecting the Easter Bunny to bring chocolate CHICKENS (?) vs. bunnies. Fortunately Peeps got the memo on that this year too. (I have to admit, the milk chocolate Peeps dipped in chocolate are pretty darn good!)

Of course, the Easter Bunny neglected to watch the weather forecast. He brought the littles bubble guns (REGULAR bubbles, certainly NOT THE COLORED ONES... remember THIS???), sidewalk chalk, and sailboats. Yes, those were my children standing out on the back patio in frigid (for California) temperatures, in their PJs, squealing and blowing bubbles. N&E scored some new Nerf guns, which are the current hot item among all of the boys in the neighborhood. And of course, it wouldn't be Easter without a boatload of CANDY.

Late that afternoon, I took advantage of the holiday to do my grocery shopping to avoid the crowds. This is what I came home to find...

Nothing like a good sugar crash!!!
Happy Easter!!!

Stair Loungin'...

2011-04-23T16:33:00.000-07:00

I was on my way up the stairs, on a laundry run, and look what I found as I rounded the corner...

It doesn't take much to entertain them these days...

Fortunately I had my camera nearby... they don't sit still for long...

Naturally, as soon as they noticed I had the camera, they decided to abort. I did manage to catch a quick few seconds on video, just to capture a bit of personality....

Something like that, anyway...

Main Dish Monday - No Dieter's Waffles

2011-04-11T09:45:00.000-07:00

Source: Texas Co-op Power Magazine

I made these for breakfast this morning, and they were A-MA-ZING!!! The kids DEVOURED them, and I did a pretty good job myself. These are so easy to make, and I always have all of the ingredients on hand, other than the buttermilk. This one's definitely one to add to my 'repeat' list!

4 Eggs
2 Cups Flour
1 Tsp Salt
1 Tsp Baking Soda
1 Tsp Baking Powder
2 Cups Buttermilk, divided
1 Cup Butter, Melted

In large bowl, beat eggs slightly. In separate bowl, sift together dry ingredients. Add half of dry ingredients and 1 cup buttermilk to eggs and mix with wire whisk. Follow with remaining dry ingredients and remaining buttermilk. Mix again. Add melted butter and mix until incorporated. Drop by 1/3 cupfuls onto waffle iron heated to a medium-high setting and greased with cooking spray. Re-grease after every one or two waffles cooked.

Note: I used a Belgian waffle iron, so I had to increase the recommended 1/3 cupful of batter. So light (in texture!) and fluffy... YUM!!!

Enjoy!

We're Hiding...

2011-04-02T09:56:00.000-07:00

I rounded the corner to my kitchen to find these two monkeys sitting in a box. Aidan was quick to tell me "Mommy... we're HIDING". Crazy boys!

N&E still had a box in their closet from our latest move, and they finally decided to unload it (or Matt did, more likely). The box was tossed down the stairs and instantly provided a good 30 minutes of entertainment for the littles.

I love how pictures seem to capture the true personality of these boys. Just look at Luke... yep, that's him summed up to a T!

Scissors...

2011-03-25T22:40:00.000-07:00

What is it with 3-year-olds and scissors??? I have read countless blogs and Facebook posts recently about crazy toddlers cutting their hair, as well as their siblings hair. I haven't introduced the art of scissory to my littles yet, and I have no plans to anytime soon. Not my boys! We'll stick to macaroni necklaces, stickers, and crayons.
I should mention that they have seen ME use the scissors countless times (something to do with my couponing addiction), and I guess they are paying attention. I've had a few instances recently where I've caught one of them red handed with my forbidden scissors. Yes, I keep them up high in a cabinet, but there are very few safe zones in this house anymore. They are excellent furniture movers these days, and let's face it, there are 3 of them!

I happened to find this enlightening bit of evidence on my camera. Liam is very fond of photography these days (worthy of a post on its own). I'm not sure who it is in the photograph, but I am 99% certain that it's Liam BEHIND the camera. I might add that my camera is also kept up high, and is also forbidden, seems how he broke my last one. I have no idea when this was taken, nor do I know where they found this ribbon!

Unfortunately my boys have to one-up all of their peers with the scissor incidents. I WISH I was about to show you pictures of bad hair cuts. Instead, I get to post about our first trip to the ER in 2011. I was sitting with the littles a few weeks ago, watching our afternoon cartoons. I got up and walked down the hall to the kitchen. No more than a minute had passed, when I heard a loud slam, and Aidan crying. I had assumed that he got his fingers slammed in the wooden trunk we have in the corner. I was pretty sure that the slam I heard was the trunk, but he didn't get his fingers caught in it. He came running to me holding his hand, hysterically crying to me that 'he cut my finger... he cut my finger!' It took me a few seconds to process what he was telling me. Blood was everywhere, and it was coming from Baby A's middle finger. It turns out that he and Liam were playing with my scissors, and Liam somehow cut Aidan's finger tip pad almost all the way off. The slam I heard was indeed the trunk. The forbidden scissors were tossed inside the trunk... to hide the 'weapon'. (Sometimes Liam is just too smart for his own britches...).

I personally never had a stitch until my first c-section, and all 5 of my boys have been fortunate enough to have avoided them thus far, too. I don't have a lot of experience on when a cut is bad enough to seek medical attention. I was having a hard time getting the bleeding to stop, so I called Matt and asked him to come home and help. (I was a little freaked out at this point.) By the time he got home, the bleeding had slowed, and everyone was much more calm. Matt did take him to the hospital, and the poor guy ended up with 4 deep stitches in his tiny finger.

My baby boy in the ER waiting to see the doctor...

I felt TERRIBLE. My poor baby... you now that had to hurt! Matt said that he was quite the trooper. He WATCHED them stitch him up, and never cried. Would you believe that he came home happy, clutching his new bear, and even brought home coloring books and crayons for his brothers?

We gave him a good dose of Motrin and put him to bed. By morning he was back to his old self.

We had to leave the stitches in for a couple of weeks, but we've since had them removed. (He didn't much care for that part.)

I can't help but notice he's shooting me the bird in this picture. I guess I don't blame him!!!

Good, Cheap, Entertainment...

2011-03-18T14:54:00.000-07:00

The FedEx man is my friend... especially when he brings me my Gloria Jean Butter Toffee K-cups! The littles were quite intrigued with the box, so I figured it wouldn't hurt to open it for them. Might as well put them to work too...

Well, it kept them busy for a good 5 minutes or so, anyway!

Wood Chips...

2011-03-09T09:40:00.000-08:00

I took the littles to our favorite fenced-in park to play today. The slide and swings are the typical draw. However, not this time...

Next time I'm packing our beach buckets and shovels!

Brilliant?

Main Dish Monday - Tilapia with Wine & Tomatoes

2011-02-28T08:45:00.000-08:00

Source: Allrecipes.com

It's been awhile since I've posted a new recipe, but I found this one a few weeks ago and it's been a hit at my house ever since! I'm not a big 'fish' person. Seriously, if it tastes 'fishy' or if I can smell that 'fishy' smell, I'm not eating it. However, I'm always looking for something different to add to the rotation, outside of my 'rut' of chicken and pasta dishes. This recipe is amazing! Give it a try... you won't be disappointed!

Ingredients:

4 (4 ounce) fillets tilapia
Salt and pepper to taste
4 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, pressed
4 fresh basil leaves, chopped
1 large tomato, chopped (I've also used cherry tomatoes, as in the picture)
1 cup white wine

Directions:

Preheat a grill for medium-high heat.

Place the tilapia fillets side by side on a large piece of aluminum foil. Season each one with salt and pepper. Place one tablespoon of butter on top of each piece of fish, and sprinkle garlic, basil and tomato. Pour the wine over everything. Fold foil up around fish, and seal into a packet. Place packet on a cookie sheet for ease in transportation to and from the grill.

Place foil packet on the preheated grill, and cook for 15 minutes, or until fish flakes easily with a fork. Open the packet carefully so as not to get burned from the steam, and serve.

Enjoy!

Note: I baked mine in the oven at 425 for about 25-30 minutes, still using the foil packet. I also sprinkled on a little lemon pepper and probably went a little heavy on the garlic! I served mine on a bed of wilted spinach and it was SO GOOD!

My Worst Purchase EVER!!!

2011-02-25T15:21:00.000-08:00

This morning I took the littles on our Friday morning field trip to Target. I had several items on my list this week (free jeans!), so we got an early start. I was smart this time, and didn't feed them breakfast beforehand. At least for the first few minutes in the stroller, they were busy eating. I packed donuts, so they were happy! We always have to stop at the $1 spot first and get some sort of a toy for them to hold, which also helps. They really like the little emergency vehicles with the sirens (I think we have 12 of them now!!!). After eating, Liam was being a bit of a pill, but the other 2 were pretty good. Unfortunately they spotted the Timmy toys on the endcap as I made my way around a corner. I picked up the medium sized Timmy and made the mistake of squeezing his hand. This particular Timmy makes the whiney "baaaaahhhh" sound. I wasn't about to purchase 3 Timmy's at $15 each today, so instead I picked up the smaller ones... one Timmy, the cat, and the duck. These were still $6 each, but more tolerable to my checkbook. Of course, the first thing Liam did was squeeze the Timmy, and he immediately started crying that it was 'broke'. That's what set him off. I tried everything to get him to STOP CRYING, but nothing was working.

I finally spotted some bubbles on another endcap, and thought I would make one final attempt to make him happy. These weren't just ordinary bubbles... these were COLORED bubbles, made by Crayola. How fun would that be? In fact, this intrigued all three of them to the point that they gave me back the Timmy toys. (The bubbles were only $3, so I was making money on this deal.) Liam picked green, Luke picked blue, and Aidan picked purple. I was actually pretty excited about these colored bubbles... I mean, how smart of an idea was that? Aside from them wanting to open them immediately, I was able to finish my shopping in peace.

When we got back home, they immediately wanted to go play with their bubbles. I had something I needed to do in the kitchen anyway, so I let them go out on the back patio and play. I opened Liam's bottle for him first. The wand is attached to the lid, so it makes it easy for small hands to hold. Plus, the bottle says it's spill-resistant, which sounded great, in theory.

I really wish that I had taken a picture of these bottles before they played with them, but I hadn't anticipated a blog post coming from them at the time!!!

I handed Liam his prize and he pulled the wand out, blew on it, and wa-lah! Green bubbles!!! Weeeeee!!!

I turned around to open Aidan's bottle (less than 30 seconds elapsed), only to turn back around to find this....

Good thing Crayola is non-toxic, right?

Liam, you really should hold the wand away from your lips...

Once all 3 bottles were opened, I started to think maybe this wasn't such a good idea, afterall...

As time went on.... things got worse. MUCH worse....

Spill resistant my #%$$!!!

I may as well have bought them PAINT!!!

I have no words...

Seriously???

Pictures don't even do this mess justice...

Scary Liam.... just scary...

This stuff was EVERYWHERE... fortunately it does wash off. My patio, however, is going to need the rain showers we are expecting today...

Matt would likely have had a stroke, had he seen this...

I had to bring them in one at a time, and only after taking off their shoes and stripping them first! Naturally the other 2 decided to make things even more interesting...

And it just wouldn't be the House of Pannek if this didn't also come in to play....

So... the rest of my morning was spent bathing littles, hosing off the patio, and doing laundry.

I won't be buying these things EVER again. Who would have thought that a simple bottle of bubbles would turn in to such an event??? They do sell a bubble gun for these too... I wonder if that would be less messy? I for one, am not going to find out!!!

Parents of toddlers... might want to wait a few years before trying these!!!

I should have gone with the whiney Timmy dolls.... {sigh}

Balboa Boats...

2011-02-16T09:22:00.000-08:00

I don't think we will ever take for granted how fortunate we are to live so close to the ocean. How lucky are my boys that we can decide on a 'whim' to go walk around Balboa Island whenever we want?

It's a free activity for us, and the boys love it. The littles like to see the boats, while I like to imagine living in the amazing homes right there on the water. Noah & Eli especially enjoy that they usually get a frozen banana treat before we leave. The only challenge these days is that the littles don't like to stay in the stroller.

Luckily the wall in the picture is only about a foot high with sand on the other side!

Valentine's Day...

2011-02-14T21:00:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day was fun at our house this year. Not that we really did anything special, since it was a Monday. We had enjoyed a nice weekend as a family beforehand, so Valentine's Day was really just about the CANDY. Boy... what a difference a year makes, huh? Having just turned 3, our trio are really enjoying all the holidays. They understand now... they get it... and this particular holiday was no exception. I made sure that not only did I have heart-shaped boxes of candy for N&E, I also had 3 mini boxes for the littles.

Guess what we had for breakfast???

Aidan dove right in to his box. This kid doesn't miss many sweets... can you tell? (He's definitely MY baby!)

Liam dove in too... but he made sure to open all the wrappers and take just one bite from each... naturally leaving the rest for me to clean up (or his brothers/dogs to eat)...

Sweet Luke... he opted to sit at the kitchen table and savor every bite. He's a slow eater, but trust me, he gets to it all before he's done.

Still examining the goods...

I could be here all day... but he won't share!!!

I probably shouldn't have spent as much time taking pictures of Luke. Aidan finished his entire box before I got back!

So did Liam! Oops! (They are really in to Dora & Diego now, for some reason... so these were perfect little boxes for them.)
So, whether I liked it or not, the littles had chocolate for breakfast... and a lot of it. (I must admit, I had quite a few Ghiradelli chocolates from MY box too!) I made sure to make them a healthy lunch to counter-act the sugar (yeah, right!). Not sure how much it helped... but I tried anyway!

As the afternoon went on, we were greeted with another Valentine's Day surprise when the mail man came. Grandma sent 5 more boxes of chocolate!!! She trumped me on this one... these boxes had the GOOD candy in them. Oh boy! An afternoon snack of MORE CANDY!!! Woot!!!

Ok, I know... I was a bad mom... but MY Valentine's were happy Valentines!!! It was a holiday... let 'em live a little! (Please ignore the dishes in my sink... I don't usually leave them there, but it was Valentine's Day & I was being lazy eating chocolate!)

Noah & Eli are obviously missing from the pictures. They actually had the day off school and they were far to busy to stay home and be photographed. They had a great day too, and even managed to save a little of their chocolate until the next day. Well... other than the few remaining pieces that Luke stole. He's been known to pull a chair up to the counter to access the upper cabinets.

Hope everyone had a Happy Valentines' Day!!!

Bye Bye Cribs...

2011-02-08T15:48:00.000-08:00

Our littles are growing up... {sniff}...

It's time we bid farewell to the cribs. Good bye, sweet cribs... {sniff}... {sniff}...

You might notice that the crib tents are gone. Yep... they finally destroyed them to the point of no return. Honestly if they hadn't, I wouldn't be writing this particular post right now, as they would still be sleeping peacefully ALL NIGHT in their cribs. Unfortunately that wasn't the case, and it hasn't been for a few months now.

In fact, Matt and I have spent the last few months waking up with THIS in between us...

Precious as they may look while sleeping... WE weren't getting much sleep. We figured it couldn't get much worse. I was already having to lay on the floor of their room until they fell asleep every night. If not, they would climb right out and turn their room into party zone... toddler style. I always snuck out and made it back to my bed, but of course at least one would wake up during the night. On one night in particular, I woke up at 2:30am to find all the lights on and them sitting in the floor amongst a pile of clean clothes (from the closet & their drawers), baby wipes (every last one of them removed from the box), and books (from their shelves). Another night they decided to truck it downstairs on their own. Most nights, however, one (or all) would wake up crying (at different times, of course) and would not go back to sleep unless we brought them back to our bed. It got to the point where we needed our sleep, so we obliged and just let them stay until morning. It just wasn't worth the fight.

I spent several days on the Internet looking at various toddler beds and ultimately found some I really liked. While this would have been the most cost-effective move short term (albeit still not cheap when you're having to buy 3 beds plus bedding), it wouldn't have lasted them more than another year, at best. Our boys are tall, and they were already starting to take up the entire crib. They also seemed to fall asleep immediately when they were in our bed. I wasn't sure if it was the mattress, the size, *us*, or the covers. (Their room gets cold at night, whereas ours is a sauna if the heat is on.) I then switched gears and started looking at twin beds. Ideally, this is what I wanted. I have had my heart set on a 'big boy room' straight out of the Pottery Barn Kids catalog, with 3 twin beds lined up in a row. Well... their current room isn't big enough for 3 twins. Not with any space (not even an inch) between them, anyway. Matt really wanted bunk beds. I was opposed to this idea because after all, they are barely 3 years old!!!

You see how far THAT got me.

We are now the proud owners of triple bunk beds. I was nervous about it at first, but on the other hand, they have been climbing up and down Noah & Eli's bunk beds for a long time now (against the rules, but what do you do???). They've also been climbing over the baby gate(s), and let's not forget how they were flying between and over the cribs.

They are pretty cool, I must admit. Plus, there are 6 drawers under the bottom bunk, and another 6 on the right side, supporting the 2nd top bunk. This made for a smart use of space, as we didn't have to buy a dresser. (One of the biggest challenges for me, with 3 boys in one room, is storing their CLOTHES.)

They were very excited about them, as you could tell from the picture. However, the first night ended something like this...

That's my inflatable mattress on the floor. They call it 'mommy's bed'. In their defense, the first night was a little chaotic as they went to bed late. I had to run all over town to find a bed rail for the bottom bunk, Matt was working late, etc.

One out of 3 for the first night ain't bad, right?

We've had them for about two weeks now, and they are doing great with them! Liam is still a bit hesitant to sleep up top. He's the first one to climb up and play on the top bunk during the day, but sometimes at night it's a different story. Luke has chosen the bottom bunk as 'his' bed. However, some nights he asks to sleep up in Liam's bed. Aidan is the only one that has consistently slept in his own bed (also up top), but there have been a couple of nights where he's slept on 'mommy's bed'. (Yes, the inflatable mattress is still there today.) Regardless which bed they start out on, or end up in, they are actually sleeping MUCH better. Yes, I am still laying with them until they fall asleep every night, but I can deal with that. We do still have the occasional middle-of-the-night wake up, but NOTHING like before, and most of the time they go right back to sleep. Night time is still a work-in-progress, but we're getting there!

I did, however, wake up in a bunk bed this morning.

A 60 Minute Glimpse into The House of Pannek...

2011-02-03T22:25:00.000-08:00

"If The House of Pannek were a sitcom, my last hour would air during sweeps week".... words taken from my latest Facebook status update. I had to type up this post tonight, because honestly, I can't even believe the level of insanity that happened today. Actually I should narrow that down to the time between 4:30 and 5:30pm, because prior to that we were having a quasi-GOOD day.

Have I mentioned that the age of THREE times THREE is HARD??? I remember three being harder than two with both Noah and Eli, but NOTHING... I mean NOTHING like this. Strength in numbers is a very true statement, and not always in a good way. This age might just make me crazy yet. [I might add, that on several occasions I 'vent' to Matt about things I have to deal with while he's at work. Typically it goes something like 'if they don't stop doing BLANK, it's going to make me CRAZY!'. It's always followed by a smirk, while shaking-his-head, eye-rolling, you're-already-a-NUT, look. HELLO! I can give you 3 reasons (5 on most days) why!!!]

So late this afternoon, the littles were starting to feel the effects of not napping. One wanted me to 'hold' him, another wanted a snack, and the other was just crying for whatever reason. While holding #1, I poured juice for #2. #3 was hysterical at the pantry wanting me to open it up (definitely have to keep it locked) so he could 'shop'. I opened the pantry lock for #3 and took the other 2 to the playroom, hoping I could plant #1 on the couch. When I returned to the kitchen I made some snack bowls of goldfish, only to turn around with #3 holding the box of Cocoa Puffs. I didn't want to deal with any more crying, so I poured him a bowl, and he made his way back to the play room happy again. As I was closing up the box of cereal & Goldfish, I heard a ruckus in the playroom. I figured I had better go and see what was going on.

I found this in the middle of the floor...

Of course it was completely EMPTY... and of course my floor was completely covered in Veggie Straws. The dogs were quite happy for about 3 seconds, until they decided they didn't like them. Figures.

I picked up the bag and walked back to the kitchen to throw away the empty sack, muttering to myself not-so-nice words along the way. Right about then, Noah called and said he and Eli were on their way home from school. (They've been walking home lately since the weather's been nice, plus it gives them time to play soccer after school with their friends.) I was on the phone less than 30 seconds, and then headed back to the playroom to clean up the veggie straws littering my Pottery Barn rug.

Unfortunately, I had a bigger mess to deal with...

This, my friends, is what I call the 'great pancake mix disaster'. I think my jaw hit the floor as I rounded the corner to this one, and I'm sure I just stood there motionless for some time until I could process what had just happened. This picture really doesn't do it justice... not even close. You can't even see the bottom layer of Veggie Straws... that's how deep this stuff was. Things were happening so fast, I was afraid to leave them alone even long enough to grab the camera, much less worry with trying to get the 'perfect shot'.

This is what I removed from the center of the mess... albeit an empty box...

Within in seconds of me discovering this nightmare, Noah & Eli were ringing the doorbell. I turned around and opened the door for them. Their eyes were the size of quarters when they came in, but they didn't say a word (I think they knew...). I turned right back around to try and determine just how I was supposed to clean all this up.... only to find Aidan & Liam making snow flurries amidst all of this.

Unbelievable. They were both covered from head to toe in Bisquick... along with my sofa, the 2 chairs, the WALLS, train table, armoir... need I go on??? Seriously... look at Aidan's face!!!

They tell me this one is responsible for the mess... I'm not surprised...

I shooed the 3 littles outside and told N&E they were officially babysitting until I got the room back under control.... which took almost an HOUR.

And if that wasn't enough...

After everything was back to *normal*, I made my way back to the kitchen to figure out what to make for dinner. Noah & Eli had snuck upstairs and the littles were playing quietly. Quiet enough for me to hear them talking from the kitchen. I hear Luke's little raspy voice saying something... "oopie". He repeats himself, joyfully... "oopie, oopie!". I'm thinking to myself, I think I've heard him say that before... what is he saying? Nooooooo... OMG... POOPIE!!! I hauled my *you-know-what* back into the playroom to find both Luke & Liam, sans pants. Of course they point at the floor and repeat the "oopie" word. Yes folks... it's happened. I now have officially experienced what drives most MoMs to use duct tape on the diapers. Not pretty.

I FREAKED OUT, told everyone to FREEZE while I ran to grab some wipes, diapers & a sack. I was most concerned with finding out WHO this present belonged to before I had a bigger mess. I kept the foreign object in sight at all times while I quickly cleaned up the culprit (of course, it was LUKE!)... all the while shouting for everyone to STAND BACK.

Would you believe, that my DOG... who was sitting on the chair right behind me decided to FLIP OUT, during my FREAK OUT. He literally jumped over my shoulder to get down off the chair. I screamed "BECKHAM!!!" while he was in mid-flight, scaring him even more, and upon his landing, he planted his back left foot SQUARE IN THE MIDDLE OF the $%&#!!! ... $%#@!&#!!!!! I am REALLY freaking out now which makes him RUN. You can use your imagination from here. Needless to say I spent the next hour cleaning and sanitzing the floor.

If you had asked me almost 13 years ago if my then, newly-acquired, last name would have any indication of what my future would hold, I would have laughed in your face. Funny how things work out, isn't it?

So who wants to sponsor my sitcom???

Got Glue?

2011-01-25T12:53:00.000-08:00

So I had this tube of Liquid Nails out yesterday. Noah's pajama drawer has been in need of desperate help for a very, long time. Don't ask me why, but for some reason I decided to fix it yesterday. If for no other reason than to eliminate his excuse for not putting up his laundry, or better yet, for letting all the clothes hang out of his dresser... but that's another post all together...

The littles had been crazy (read... NIGHTMARE) all morning, but at the time were playing happily in the den. Once my glue had set, I decided to run the drawer back upstairs before one of them decided to use it as a stool to reach something they shouldn't. As it turns out, it really doesn't matter if the drawer was there or not.

I came back to find the back door open, and Luke and Liam playing nicely (so I thought) in the tunnel of their play house. Once I heard the (evil) giggles, I knew something was up. I ran out the back door and quickly removed the open tube of Liquid Nails from Luke's hand, and the lid from Liam's. Thankfully, they couldn't have had it more than a few minutes.

Apparently they have been watching their big brothers use the hair gel...

It's hard to tell from the picture, but Liam has some permanent spikes up front now.

As well as other places... These pictures really don't do justice to the crispiness...

THIS, however, is my personal favorite...

As if Luke needed any help with his hair standing on end.

I'm finding that 3 year olds are HARD. And TIMES THREE.... well, stay tuned and you be the judge!

My Worst Nightmare...

2011-01-11T13:14:00.000-08:00

Those of you that know me, or if you've read many of my blog posts, probably know that I am a HUGE germ-o-phobe. I haven't always been this way... well, not to this extreme, anyway. Adding the trio to the mix changed things. Something about having 5 kids will do that to you, I guess. We don't live in a bubble, but I am super careful and don't take the littles to places like Chuck E Cheese, mall playgrounds, etc. (the obvious germy places). N&E know that as soon as they set foot in the car from school they are to use the hand sanitizer. They know the drill. I do take the littles out to places like Target... but they are not allowed OUT of the stroller, and most certainly not allowed to ride in the shopping cart, even after I have wiped it down (yes, I am one of those people that actually use the sanitizing wipes the stores have out by the carts.). People with 1 or 2 kids think I'm over-the-top, psychotic, or weird. Until you have 3 toddlers at once on top of 2 others, you just really can't compare.  Regardless, it's working for us. The last time I had the kids at the pedi (other than for flu shots) was at their well check over a year ago. I can handle a cold here and there... even a fever... but I am DEATHLY AFRAID of VOMIT! I think after seeing the episode of Jon & Kate where all 8 kids were sick with the bug, laying in the basement with individual buckets... yep, I'm pretty sure that did me in.

But it was bound to happen. Monday morning started as usual around here. Big boys were dragging getting ready for school. I had the littles downstairs... had fed them breakfast, and was in the middle of my first cup of coffee. Matt was still home, which was unusual for him, and Luke had snuck back up the stairs to hang with Dad. Sure enough, I heard Matt shouting from upstairs. Luke had just thrown up. Instantly I felt sick, and the adrenaline rush started right on cue. We sent the big boys downstairs to watch the other two (which they were quite happy to do this time... pretty much ran down the stairs). Matt kept his distance from Luke while I tried to help him and start the clean up process.  Poor guy was scared to death (referring to Luke, but Matt, too, was white with fear). We laid him out on the couch downstairs on blankets, and I shooed Matt & the boys out the door. I did my best throughout the day to keep paci's and sippie cups separated. Luke actually did pretty well with this bug.  He always seemed to get that 'look' on his face so I knew when to grab him and run to the bathroom. By evening, he finally passed out on the couch. I didn't want to move him, so I left him there while I took Aidan and Liam up to their cribs. Prior to this, I had sent Matt to Target to buy me some Pedialyte, Gatorade, and an air mattress. I planned to sleep on the air mattress in their room in case one of the others came down with it during the night. I put Aidan in his crib, then Liam. Liam actually wanted to lay on the air mattress for a minute so I had to lay down next to him. He wasn't there 2 minutes before he lost it over the side. I FREAKED OUT. I jumped up, grabbed him and hadn't even rounded the corner out of the bedroom when Aidan chimed in too. OH MY HELL... at the same time??? Are you kidding me???  At this point I was screeching out for anyone that would listen.

Needless to say, I spent the night back downstairs with all 3 of my littles on the floor, on blankets, with buckets. Just like Jon & Kate (minus 5 kids).  I will say that dealing with a stomach bug at NIGHT is much, much worse than during the day.  Pure torture. Poor Aidan & Liam were desperately trying to (and needed) sleep, but just couldn't... and they are still too little to make it to the bathroom, even in the day when they are awake. I personally didn't sleep a wink, for obvious reasons. At least I was able to clear off the DVR. Liam was better by morning, but poor Aidan had it for the bulk of Tuesday as well.

I lived to tell the story, barely. However I NEVER, EVER want to live that experience over again. I went through Lysol, Clorox wipes, and hand sanitizer like crazy for several days. Thankfully the rest of us were spared. Most dreadful experience to date with kids... without a doubt. Words can not express how bad it was. Matt used 'disaster' a few times. I'm thinking worse.

My poor babies... in the sick ward...

Now... let me tell you how this happened. I let my guard down, took them out of the bubble the previous weekend. On Saturday I took all 5 to a very crowded park to play. (I do take them to the park, but usually during the week when there are few to no other children). Noah & Eli went to the dreaded Chuck E Cheese for a birthday party. I am fine with the big kids (fine is a strong word) going. They know better than to put their hands & other objects in their mouths, unlike my littles. (They don't always oblige, but they do KNOW better.). I took the littles to Nordstrom's for new shoes, and they did get out of the stroller and sit on the seats in the shoe area. On Sunday we took the family to Ikea. We had lunch in the restaurant, and we allowed the littles to sit at the table vs. their stroller to eat. Of course they did not stay seated. We then walked around Ikea, and Luke escaped the stroller. He was laying in beds, etc., enjoying the freedom. Before I knew it, all were OUT of the stroller, walking. Everyone held hands, so they were somewhat controlled. After we left Ikea, we went to the OC Market Place to look at some triple bunk beds (which we have since purchased). All stayed in the stroller, but there were some serious protests. I'm not sure exactly where they picked this up, but I do know it was very likely from one of these places! As we went to bed that Sunday night, I remember saying out loud 'I sure hope that nobody catches the plague from all of our activities this weekend'. I need to learn to keep my mouth shut!

Needless to say, we are back in our bubble and it will be a LONG time before they see that kind of freedom again!

Gingerbread Men...

2010-12-29T18:07:00.000-08:00

I stumbled across some super cute Gingerbread man kits at Trader Joe's while trying to find my Christmas Eve, prime rib entree. Of course they were out of the prime rib, but these were in abundance, and only $0.99 to boot! I thought it would be a fun activity for all the kids to do during the holidays, and I was right. I pulled them out on a rainy morning and let them go to town. They were thrilled that there was frosting and CANDY in the box. (Yes, I'm smart like that... candy for breakfast and all... it was a good idea, in theory, anyway).

The M&M like candies were easy for them to work with. The sprinkle balls... not so much. In hindsight, I'm wishing I had ditched the sprinkle bags.

That's not snow on my table... and you should have seen the FLOOR...

It's Christmas.... why the heck not?

Notice who's licking his fingers in this pic... yep, he's MY son...

I can't help but notice that Luke looks a lot like Eli in this next picture. Funny, as he and Liam look mostly like Noah, whereas Aidan is undoubtedly Eli's clone.

I probably don't have to mention that I'm still finding those little sprinkle balls on the floor!!!

Happy Halloween!

2010-11-01T09:37:00.000-07:00

Halloween was so much fun! This is the first year that the littles actually went up to the doors. Our 3 little monkeys, skeleton, & scream, all had a ball! Aidan was the only one of the littles that actually learned to say "trick-or-treat", but all of them managed to say "thank-you"... most of the time, at least. Our neighborhood was a bit lame in the Halloween participation department. There were two homes (including ours) on our street that actually handed out candy. How strange is that??? I had a feeling that was going to be the case, so I didn't feel bad at all about leaving the candy on a small table out front. Besides, both Matt & I wanted to see the littles in action, along side N&E. The street opposite ours had 5-6 homes participating, and they had lots of fun decorations up, so all was not lost.

In the end, we had to walk a bit more than planned (thank goodness for the choo-choo... but boy is it heavy with 100lbs of toddlers in it on hills!) We ended up with PLENTY of candy, regardless. Besides, I'm the one that ends up eating most of it! The good stuff, at least. Liam caught on real quick that they were putting candy in his pumpkin. He ate non-stop after the first house. Our choo-choo wagon was littered with all sorts of wrappers & sticky goodies when all was said and done. And... would you believe that the large bowl of candy I left out was still full??? Crazy.

Hope everyone enjoyed Halloween! Our neighborhood is already decorated for Christmas. Tis the season!

My Canine Growth Chart...

2010-10-07T12:19:00.000-07:00

Ok, so this morning I was joking around because the pants I put on the littles are a tad bit on the 'short' side. Today we are sporting Capri pants. We're not going anywhere, and they're already dressed, so why not? (Also read... I'm too lazy to go back upstairs to get them something else to wear... and its not worth the wrestling match to get them re-dressed...) One more trip through the laundry cycle and they're off to our BBB baby friends.

I know they've grown quite a bit over the last several months. However, I didn't realize just how much they've grown until I stumbled across this comparison...

September 13, 2009

September 20, 2010

Wow... what a difference a year makes! Straighten this child's legs out and he's the entire length of the dog (who has likely grown a bit himself)! And just how ironic is it that I would have a picture of the same child, with the same dog, in the same pose, almost exactly a year apart???

We don't go back to the pedi for our annual check-up until the end of December. (Thankfully my germ-o-phobic ways mixed with a little luck have kept us out of there since our 2-year well check!) I can't wait to see their stats... it's going to be crazy!

For now I'll just have to rely on Morrie as my measuring stick.

Where have my babies gone???

Aidan's Shiner...

2010-10-07T11:17:00.000-07:00

OUCH! Poor Aidan took a blow to the face with a plastic wagon handle... courtesy of Luke. Poor guy! It happened right before bed, and this is what we woke up to find...

I think he wears it well, what about you?

Needless to say, our wagons are all 'push' vs. 'pull' now!

I may have to re-think the 3 sets of golf clubs I have in the closet for Christmas!

This is Just Wrong...

2010-09-21T09:22:00.000-07:00

Remember this?

This is the hole that one of the monsters made in one of the crib tents during nap time a few months back. I still have no idea how (or why) this happened, but so far the tent is still doing its job... and thus I have no plans to remove it. (Let us not forget THIS event.)

This 'hole' has become somewhat of a game at nap time now. Liam (of course) likes to sleep in this crib at nap time. This is the child that wants absolutely NOTHING in his crib at night, other than his blanket. However, at nap time, he has to have all sorts of toys, books... you name it. It didn't take me long to clue in to what he was up to... the sound of clanging cars, thumping books, and other banging obstacles as they hit the hardwood floor on the 2nd story gave it away pretty quickly. The first time my heart skipped a few beats in terror, as I thought he had 'escaped'. Thankfully not... just entertaining Luke by launching things through the hole. I don't mind picking up toys as long as he stays in his crib and eventually goes to sleep. That's how I roll these days (a girl has to have time to do the laundry!).

Since N&E are back in school (actually have been back since July), we're back to our 'normal' routine. I typically have to wake Luke & Liam up to pick them up in the afternoons. Aidan usually wakes up on his own, right on queue. One day last week I opened the nursery door to see this...

For some reason this just struck me funny... so of course I had to run down and get my camera before waking them.

I just can't make this stuff up, folks. Poor little lamb...

The look on its face is classic. If only stuffed animals could talk.

I don't get out much... can you tell?

Musicians in the Making...

2010-09-15T15:29:00.000-07:00

Look out American Idol! (Hmmm... I wonder if anyone will even remember American Idol in 14 years???)

All we need now are some DRUMS.....

On second thought... maybe NOT!!!

GUM...

2010-09-08T10:26:00.000-07:00

Just when you think it's safe to leave the room for even a minute, they out-smart you!!!

Aidan and Liam were playing ever so sweetly at the kitchen island this morning. Luke was fully captivated on the couch by Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. I thought I would take advantage of this brief instance of 'calm' and decided to run quickly upstairs to grab their clothes for the day. I was gone one minute, at most, and came back to find all three monkeys on the couch entertained by Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. Awww... what good boys I have this morning!

Then I looked at my kitchen island to find this...

Oh boy...

I'm not exactly sure how many pieces of gum were in this package to begin with, but it's clearly empty now. I counted SEVEN foil wrappers as I gathered them for the trash.

I scanned my trio of sweet children on the couch... Luke was still sitting sweet as ever, just as he was when I had left him. He still had his paci in his mouth, so he appeared to be innocent of this crime. Aidan had no gum in his mouth, but his tongue was a bright shade of RED, and his breath was nice and fruity. Hmmmm... appears to be guilty, given the evidence. (Of course HE would assume this to be FOOD. Knowing him he probably at the wrappers too...)

Then there's this one...

Liam.... of course!!!

Look at that!!! That's got to be at least four of the seven pieces.

Those darn dimples!!! Well... at least he didn't swallow it... not that he could... given the size of it...

GUILTY!!! Now if I can just figure out how to wrangle it out of his mouth.

Guess I need to find a new place for my purse too, huh?

E's EIGHT!

2010-09-07T11:44:00.000-07:00

Elijah Cole just celebrated his '8th' birthday last week! Happy Birthday E... we love you!!!

And what a handsome boy you are! Notice anything 'missing' in this picture? How about two teeth??? Yes, it took almost 8 years for our E to finally lose one of his baby teeth. It turns out he lost two in two days! He came home from school with the first one in an envelope. The next day he had yet another envelope, with another tooth. I asked him what his teacher said the 2nd time and he said she exclaimed.... "AGAIN???".

We celebrated his birthday at Disney's California Adventure. Aside from getting his tongue stuck on a frozen juice bar 5 minutes inside the gate (poor guy!), we had a fantastic day! (FYI... Disneyland keeps their ice cream treats frozen in dry ice, so consider letting them melt a little before 'licking'... especially the juice bars... Leave it to E!!!).

Main Dish Monday - Shrimp Pasta

2010-09-06T15:47:00.000-07:00

Source: The Pioneer Woman - Ree Drummond (of course!)

I've been wanting to try this recipe ever since I first saw it. Well, I finally made it, and WOW! This is an amazing dish, perfect for entertaining... and super easy to make! What more can you ask for??? This one's definitely a keeper!!!

Ingredients:

■½ cups Olive Oil
■4 cloves Garlic, Minced
■3 whole 14.5 Ounce Cans Diced (or Whole) Tomatoes
■½ cups White Wine
■2 pounds Jumbo Or Large Shrimp, Peeled And Deveined
■Salt And Pepper, to taste
■Fresh Parsley, Minced
■1 pound Linguine, Uncooked
■Red Pepper Flakes, to taste

Preparation Instructions:

Cook pasta for 1/2 the recommended cooking time. Pasta should still be very firm.

In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and saute for a minute. Dump in the tomatoes and wine. Stir the mixture together, season with salt and pepper, and allow to cook for ten minutes.

Meanwhile, prepare a large parcel of heavy duty aluminum foil. It should be large enough to hold the entire pasta dish.

Throw the shrimp on the top of the pasta sauce. Throw the drained pasta over the top, then pour the whole dish onto the foil. Tightly wrap the foil into a parcel.

Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes. Remove from oven and keep warm until serving.

Open the foil parcel right before serving. Drizzle a tiny bit of olive oil over the top. Squeeze on lemon juice, if desired.

Enjoy!

Cookie Monsters...

2010-09-06T09:09:00.000-07:00

The littles are officially 'cookie monsters'!!! What kid isn't, right? Well... these boys are ridiculously addicted to them... kinda like their mama! We've been making chocolate chip cookies for an after school treat a lot lately. I've been buying the break & bake Pilsbury and/or Toll House, and they never seem to last long in the fridge. Fortunately these cookies are small, because a pack of 24 disappears before they even have time to cool around here. Good thing I have 5 boys, otherwise I would probably eat them all myself. (There's just something about warm chocolate chip cookies!) Daddy probably has no clue that we make these things, because he's never seen one.

Liam...

Aidan...

and the biggest one of all... LUKE...

It's always the smallest kid that consumes the most sugar... go figure!

Noah & Eli are 'monsters' as well, just not as keen on getting their picture taken with cookies. You might also notice Morrie in the background in picture #1, licking his lips. However, this is one delicacy that he'll receive a good smack on the nose for even attempting to snatch. Luke packs a powerful punch when it comes to his 'Cu-Keeeee'!

Store-bought cookies will work in a pinch, but everyone prefers the 'homemade' ones. In either case, I have to keep the pantry and the fridge 'locked'. People get in BIG trouble at my house for leaving the fridge and pantry locks off. BIG trouble. It only takes seconds for one of the littles to find this mishap, and then all bets are off. Yogurt cups, produce, milk jugs, frozen pizzas, Diet Cokes, shredded cheeses, leftovers, (etc!)... parade through the house at lightning speed. It creates major chaos trying to get everything safely back in its place, and always results in someone crying... me or them. On more than one occasion the littles have had something they shouldn't for breakfast... just to keep the peace!

See???

Yes... those are Nutter Butters in Liam's hand.

Little Monsters!!!

Paparazzi...

2010-09-01T12:41:00.000-07:00

If you have triplets, you know what I mean when I say 'paparazzi', and I'm not talking Lady Gaga! You know what it's like to take them out in public, even for small errands such as grocery shopping. It takes THREE times as long to do anything, and not because the children are difficult (when that happens you might as well just abort the mission.). It's the onlookers! Yes, even at 2 1/2 we are still in the 'freak show' category. I don't typically mind the nice comments, but we do still get some zingers. It just amazes me at what comes out of peoples mouths sometimes. I do have to say that I'm a bit self-conscious so I'm not a big fan of being stared at. I laugh when I talk with other triplet moms, because it never fails.... one of the first things people do when they find out you've given birth to triplets is look you up and down, then back to front. Stop looking at my butt people!!! Just because you have had multiple children does not mean you still need to look pregnant and frumpy. Do not act surprised that I don't weigh a gazillion pounds... I chase after 3 toddlers, 2 young boys, and 2 dogs everyday!!!

I have come to expect it every time we go out, so it's really become a norm. I absolutely HATE to hear the phrase 'you've got your hands full', and I swear that I will NEVER say that to anyone, regardless of the circumstances. We enjoy seeing all the smiles that the boys bring to people, and that far outweighs the negative comments we get. Most people are nice and mean well. However, one time Matt was pushing the boys and someone shouted "where's Kate??!" (before the big break up...). We also get a lot of 'you poor thing', and 'better you than me'. I've even had the "Oh, I'm so sorry!". Seriously??? Some comments I just have to laugh at, like "Are they all YOURS?". What??? No... I thought it would be fun to take all the neighborhood toddlers to Target with me!!! I usually keep looking forward and trudge along, but trust me... I am listening to the comments, whether I respond or not.

We've been to Disneyland 3 times this summer, as well as the San Diego Zoo. Yes, those places attract even more attention since there are so many people there. Here are a couple of pictures of people taking pictures of our trio. (I was having to stand and wait for them, so why not return the favor?)

Why people find it necessary to take pictures of MY children just blows my mind, but it happens all the time! All the time... sometimes they ask, but most of the time you just see the flash. Crazy!

This video clip has been making its round among the Facebook triplet community this week. I finally got around to watching it today, and I must say, "Angus" did a fantastic job illustrating what it's like to go out in public with triplets. I can honestly say that I have heard every single one of these comments over, and over.... even the "Holy $%*&!!!" comment! That's one of the funny ones, lol! The dad has a few really funny come-backs if you listen closely.

Like I said, the paparazzi doesn't usually bother me like it does other triplet moms... unless I'm frantically stressing to find baby wipes from under the over-packed stroller while waiting in line to take a picture with Handy Manny... who is about to leave.... In that case it would probably be better to stop asking me about my fertility. True story.

We are truly blessed to have all five of our boys. If that makes us a 'freak show', then I embrace it!

They Discovered the Air Conditioner...

2010-08-26T08:50:00.000-07:00

It absolutely AMAZES me what these boys think of! Yesterday the littles wandered around to the side of the house. Usually when they do this, there's mud involved, so I followed pretty quickly. (Especially considering they weren't supposed to be outside anyway... it was getting late... and they are in their diapers... but they know how to escape... you know...)

Fortunately for me, I had my camera in my pocket, because what you will see in this video is not only ingenious... it's pretty darn funny, too!

I will note... I did *not* encourage this, by any means. They came up with this all on their own. (I honestly don't think I could have come up with this one, even if I wanted to!) However, once I realized they were not in any 'danger', I did 'supervise' them with my camera, long enough to catch a video, hahaha. I learned that I should probably make sure the A/C is not running when they play outside from now on. That's probably a good thing anyway, seems how we leave the back door wide open when they're out there.

This was the first time they encountered the air conditioner while it was running. What in the world would make them think to put leaves on top of it to make the leaves 'fly'? Amazing how their little minds work. Just A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!!

It's the simple things in life.

Love these little people!!!

442 Cars...

2010-08-24T12:19:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, while I was out on my weekly grocery run, the littles 'found' N&E's stash of matchbox cars. I've had SOME cars out for them to play with, but nowhere near ALL of them. The majority have been stashed in a large storage bin in the guest room closet. N&E have been playing Wii in the guest room a lot lately, and I'm assuming they got a visitor or two (or three). Needless to say, I arrived home to find cars everywhere.

We have hundreds and hundreds of cars... and we haven't bought hardly any of them! Matt's dad started a tradition back when Noah was just a toddler. He always brought a car with him, each time he saw him. He would hold it behind his back, and ask him to pick a hand. He never missed a beat. Once Eli was born he started bringing 2 cars with him. This tradition carried on up until we lost him to cancer. Unfortunately he wasn't able to meet our trio, but we strongly believe he had something to do with them! You see, Matt is the baby of 5 boys, and I'm guessing this is pay-backs... something like that. (If you don't already know our story, we did IVF (trying for 1 girl) but only implanted *2* embryos... resulting in *3* fraternal babies (boys)... read more on that HERE...).

Something like this might just send most people over the edge... but I'm not like most people anymore! Yes, at one point, pre-triplets, this probably would have completely stressed me out. I'm in the mindset now that if they are playing nicely together and not fighting or destroying household items, I can deal with picking toys up off the floor. Ever tried to keep three 2-year-olds entertained all day, and still get household duties done???

The last two mornings they have made a bee-line straight to the car box, only to dump it out again. Soooo much fun. They love the 'buses' and 'firetrucks' the best. Now, if only I could find a 'trash truck', we'd be golden. I'm sure stepping on a Barbie or Polly Pockets is far less painful, but what do you do?

Just for chuckles and grins, last night we counted them as we put them back in the box. We picked up FOUR HUNDRED FORTY-TWO cars, off the floor alone. There's no telling how many others are up in the cribs, buried in the toy box, in the couch cushions, out in the dirt, or in my kitchen drawers.

We can't help but think of Grandpa every time they play with these. What a treasured memory we have. We miss him every day.

That's a lot of LOVE Grandpa!!!

California Puddles...

2010-08-21T10:34:00.000-07:00

Everyone LOVES the beach! We can't even say the word out loud anymore... we spell it out around here... B-E-A-C-H. The littles especially love it (obviously why we have to spell it...). They recognize it on TV, in pictures, etc. "Beach" is one of the words that they can say clearly. Since grandma was here, we took the five boys to the beach the last 2 Wednesdays. N&E get out of school early every Wednesday, so they have plenty of time to play... and I learned that I have plenty of time to sunburn... oops. They are getting more brave as far as the water goes. That presents a few challenges... it's like herding cats, but it's worth it to see them having so much fun. I was able to capture a short clip of them playing... soooo cute!

I finally replaced my camera!!! Woo-hoo! I've got some catching up to do on the blog, but at least we're back in business!

I Put My Toddler Down For a Nap With a Tree...

2010-08-12T13:53:00.000-07:00

Ever have one of those days where you just don't want to listen to them scream anymore?

Yep... today is one of those days. Luke is on the tail end of a (very mild) cold and he's been milking every minute of the extra attention. He's been my shadow the last couple of days. He found a 'tree' in the yard leftover from the gardeners. He was so proud of this 'tree' that there was no way he was letting it go. Believe it or not I had to TAPE it back together because one of the small branches broke off. Scotch tape. Yes, I did. Again.... not a good day for screaming! Boy, nap time couldn't get here quick enough today. Unfortunately Luke was still not willing to let go of this thing.

He's now napping with his 'tree'. Whatever works, right? Sometimes I am one of "those" moms, lol!

Main Dish Monday - Mushroom Chicken Cream Pasta

2010-08-05T08:58:00.005-07:00

Source: Ladies' Home Journal

Ingredients:

1 package (14 ounces) whole-wheat pasta
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound white button mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
1 cup heavy cream
1 Rotisserie chicken (or any 'cooked' chicken), shredded or chopped

1 box (10 ounces) frozen peas, thawed
1/2 cup (2 ounces) shredded Parmigiano-Reggiano, plus more for serving
4 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

Directions :

Cook pasta according to package directions.

Meanwhile, in a large nonstick skillet, melt butter with oil over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms, reduce heat to medium and sauté until softened and just starting to brown, 8 to 10 minutes.

Add cream and simmer over high heat until reduced slightly, about 1 minute. Stir in chicken, peas and cheese.

Remove from heat; salt and pepper to taste. Toss with pasta and 2 tablespoons parsley.

Transfer to a large serving bowl and sprinkle with remaining 2 tablespoons parsley. Serve with additional cheese on the side.

Enjoy!

Staycation Day 6 - All Good Things Must End...

2010-08-02T09:01:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how fast our week went by! Unfortunately it was time for us to say goodbye to our Texas friends. We had a few hours to play on Monday morning before making our way to the airport. We had planned to make one more quick outing to the beach. Would you believe that the kids actually chose the pool this time? I couldn't believe it! I let Kerri take the big kids down to the pool and I stayed home with the littles. I haven't taken the trio to the pool yet, and I didn't think this was the best time to see how they would do. There's a baby pool for them, but it's not fenced off separately from the big pool, and I only have two arms.

Before we knew it, it was time to bid farewell. Boo! We loaded up our bus one last time and headed to the airport. I have to admit, I found myself a bit sad sending them off. We absolutely LOVE living here in Cali, and honestly I think you would have to drag me kicking and screaming out of here. However, it is a bit lonely being out here without our friends and family. Hopefully we didn't scare them so badly that they won't want to come back, haha!

On a separate note, I have been just terrible at updating this blog lately!!! I can't believe it's taken me so long to round out the staycation posts. However, my big boys are back in school now, as of last Wednesday (2nd & 5th graders!), so we will be getting back into the swing of things here quickly. Grandma is coming to visit us TODAY and will be here for 2 weeks. She hasn't seen the littles since last Halloween, and I can't wait to see her reaction to how much they've grown. I still have not replaced my camera since it was 'thrown', but I see that coming in the very near future. I'm going through withdrawal!

Gotta run to get grandma's room ready!

Staycation Day 5 - Breakfast, a Boat, & More Beach!

2010-07-26T13:03:00.000-07:00

We had a few things planned for Sunday. All were close by (meaning no long distance driving with 10 people in one car... once was enough!). We were headed to our favorite little cafe down on the beach for breakfast. However, after our Saturday craziness in the Tonga Lei Room with the screeching monkeys and mocking littles, Matt decided that he would stay home with the trio so that Kerri could maybe enjoy ONE meal in peace. I didn't argue with him this time!

While Kerri and I were getting ready, Matt fed the littles (and Holt) breakfast. I came down to find the four of them sitting at the bar like this...

Not a flattering shot of any of them, but I wanted to point out that they were all dressed very similarly... by sheer coincidence! All four of them had on brown shirts with camouflage shorts. I came down and called them my 'quads'! (Lord help me...)

Kerri, Noah, Eli, Hailey, Holt, and myself headed out for breakfast. (Yes, Holt was going to get to eat twice...). We had about an hour wait, just like we did on Father's Day. This is the one place where the kids WANT there to be a long wait. We let them four of them play in the sand and surf while we waited on our table. They had a blast. They were taking turns burying each other's legs. Cheap, easy entertainment!

This shot is my favorite...

A close second...

We finally made it to our table and ate ourselves silly. YUM! Afterwards we headed back to the house to pick up Matt and the littles. We had a boat to catch! We didn't have much time, but we managed to pack some PB&J's and a few other snacks. We rented a little boat to tool around on in Balboa Island.

Here's a shot of all the kids (except for Luke). They were waiting on our boat. See what I mean about the matching outfits???

A few shots from our excursion...

See this boat?

Take a closer look.... Just how CUTE is this guy??? We actually saw several seals that day. Love them!

The boat ride ended up being more fun for the adults than the kids. The littles enjoyed themselves, but they ate the entire time we were out. The bigger kids grew tired of it after a few minutes. After that they wanted to go back to the beach, complained about their life jackets, etc. Go figure. We had rented the boat for 2 hours, but ended up taking it in a few minutes early.

Once we got off the boat, we had planned to walk around Balboa Island. Those plans changed as well. The big kids really wanted to go back to the beach, so we walked a few feet and plopped ourselves down on the sand... again! The sun had come out and it was really warm and beautiful. It was nice to sit and chill for awhile, and the kids needed to burn off some energy. I overheard a family talking next to us. They had seen the choo-choo wagon and were looking at the littles. All of a sudden I heard... "Look... triplets!" from one voice. Then I heard... "Mom... there are FOUR of them!!!". LOL. I told you. The 'mom' had to come over and ask me about them. She asked if we had triplets, or two sets of twins. I guess Holt and Aidan were twins since there's not much difference in weight between the two of them! So funny to listen to the reaction of people! Never dull.

Here's a quick shot of Kerri with her kiddos from the afternoon beach trip.

We gave them until 4:30 or 5:00 to play, then we packed up and headed home to make dinner. This was their last night with us and we had planned to cook outside. Unfortunately, our staycation was coming to an end. It took so long to get here, yet was going by SO FAST!

One more day to go!

Staycation Day 4 - Mr. Matt Took Me to Hollywood and All I Got Was a SPRITE...

2010-07-20T08:45:00.000-07:00

Saturday was our 'down' day, so we didn't really have firm plans. We had talked about taking a drive up to Hollywood so that Kerri could get a picture of the 'Hollywood' sign in the hills. It seemed like a relaxing thing to do coming off of a full day at Disneyland. Matt and I have been to Hollywood before, but not since we've been California residents, and not with the kids. It's about a 45 minute to an hour drive, depending on traffic, but we figured why not??? We opted to take just ONE car this time since we were sight-seeing. Didn't sound much fun with two cars, especially when we really didn't know where we were going. Ever watch the Beverly Hillbillies? That was us.... only in a Suburban. We piled all TEN of us in the car. Matt, Kerri, and myself rode in the front row like Uncle Jed, Granny, and Ellie Mae. (I rode in the middle.) Those of you that know me well, know that I am not a good front-seat person unless I am driving. Matt says I have 'control issues'... haha... actually it's a case of jumpiness from a car accident, but either way, this was a big step for me. Our four little people were in their car seats. We initially put Eli in the back row, between Luke and Liam, and then double-buckled Noah and Hailey in the (larger) middle row between Holt and Aidan. Noah is about as wide as a standard ruler, so they had plenty of room. The seat belt was a bit awkward, but other than that they were fine.

We were on the road all of ten minutes before the 'are we almost there?' questions started. Soon after the questions started, Luke and Liam were smacking Eli on the head and pulling his hair. Noah and Hailey were whining that their backs were hurting because they had to ride double-buckled for fourteen hours. Holt needed to go potty. I'm sure something was going on with Aidan too, I just can't remember at this point. It's contagious! I looked at Matt and told him that we probably should stop somewhere for lunch before trying to do any sight-seeing. Why did I think this would be relaxing? Poor Kerri...

We stopped at a nice restaurant right on Malibu pier. The kids were happy to finally be out of the car, and by this point everyone was hungry. We ended up getting their largest booth, which to us sounded perfect (you know... so we could sandwich in all of the kids). Fortunately for us, this large booth was on the opposite side of the bar, in its own little room, so there weren't any other tables around for us to disturb. The doors/walls were opened up so we had a nice view of the ocean and pier. This was a HUGE booth, and the entire table top was a lazy susan... very cool. We were greeted immediately by our server, and she welcomed us to the "Tonga Lei Room". She explained to us that there was a button right behind where I was sitting that played nature sounds, etc. I made a very fatal mistake, and pushed it. NATURE SOUNDS my @$$!!! The lights started flashing to the rhythm of bongo drums, screeching monkeys, and I don't know what all else. This explains why this room is separate from the more formal, restaurant side. It was LOUD and OBNOXIOUS (in a FUN way)... the kids LOVED it. They loved it so much that one by one they kept climbing over people to hit the button behind me... over and over and over and OVER, again. The big kids thought it was funny so of course they were telling the littles to 'push it again'. Non-stop bongo music, flashing lights, and screeching monkeys, amidst the laughter of 7 children (and stress of 3 adults). I can still hear the boom-chicka-boom-chicka-boom-chicka-boom-boom-boom beating in my head as I type. At one point Matt took 2 of the littles on a 'walk' to calm them down. He came back with little cars for each of them to play with, which may have helped for a minute or two, before it all started up again. We ordered Kerri one of their gigantic signature fruity drinks... she's probably glad. I warned her we didn't go 'out' much... now she 'gets it'! Unfortunately we didn't get any pictures of the restaurant or our table. I don't know WHY!?! The food was amazing, despite our chaotic environment. At least we burned some calories.

Kerri did manage to get a picture of Holt and Hailey outside the restaurant. What a beautiful day!

We 'loaded up the truck' again and set out in hopes of finding the Hollywood sign. This time Hailey wanted to sit in the very back, which left Noah and Eli to double-buckle (oh, boy...). Since the kids had burned off some energy during lunch they were relatively quiet for a few minutes. (I said a FEW minutes.) After that the car went NUTSO again. Aidan kept dropping his car for Noah or Eli to pick back up. Liam decided it would be fun to throw his car and hit Noah in the back of the head with it. Holt was THIRSTY. Noah was 'touching' Eli, and Hailey was finding controlling the two in the very back wasn't all that fun either. Noah's back was 'hurting' from riding double-buckled for thirty-two and a half hours... here we go again. Luckily we were close.

"When are we going to be in Hollywood?"
"Mommy, I'm THIRSTY! I need a SPRITE!"
Somebody's crying...
"STOP throwing your car!"
"Noah's touching me!"
"Are we in Hollywood yet???"
"I can't believe I have to ride double-buckled this long... my shoulder hurts and my back is broken!"
"Give him his blanket and paci.... FIND the blanket and paci!!!"
The entire 3rd row is crying...
Eli and Noah are slugging each other
"Mommy, I'm really THIRSTY! I need a SPRITE!"
"I don't WANT to go to Hollywood!!!"

Finally we had the Hollywood hills in sight, now we just needed to find the perfect place to take a picture. We drove up and down Hollywood Blvd trying to find the perfect place. Matt ducked in to a fast food restaurant drive-thru and ordered Holt his Sprite. He took one sip and was happy (1 out of 7 isn't bad). We found the walk of fame... boy do they ever glamorize it on TV. It's really not pretty to look at. In fact, part of it is in front of a used car lot. The kids kept asking when we were going to be in Hollywood. We kept trying to explain that this WAS Hollywood, but they weren't buying it. Like I said, it looks a lot different on TV! Holt insisted that we were not in Hollywood. "This is a restaurant... that served fries and hamburgers! Hollywood is not a restaurant with fries and hamburgers!" (Holt is a total crack-up... love him!) "Where's my Sprite?" There was no way we were going to get out, given the looks of where we were, and the moods of our short people. I was frantically googling where the best place to take a picture of the Hollywood sign was, and would you believe it was right by the fast food joint where we bought the Sprite? Figures. Our Hollywood trip was not working out all that well. Here's the best Kerri could do, lol...

The car was in such a state I'm not sure any of us knew what we were doing or what we were seeing. We were melting down... and fast... and there was no option but to drive another hour to get back home. Matt looked at me and said that we needed to get these kids OUT of the CAR. We ditched Hollywood. No Rodeo Drive, no picture of the sign, no Brad Pitt... just a Sprite from a hamburger place 'not' in Hollywood.

"I need to go POTTY!!!"

"We've been in the car for 13 days!"
"Can we get OUT???"

"When are we going to be in Hollywood?"

"Can I move back up to the middle row?"

"Where's his blanket?"

"Aidan threw his stupid car again and I'm NOT picking it up!"

Crying...

"I didn't even get to see the Hollywood sign... all I saw was the letter 'T'"

(What?)

"I need to go POTTY BAAAAAADDDDDD!"

"I really wanted to see the Hollywood sign."

"I only saw the letter 'T'!"

(Huh?)

Kerri finally figured out what the letter 'T' comment was referencing. There is clearly no 'T' in the word Hollywood. My sweet Eli, who obviously needs to pay more attention in church, had seen a huge CROSS at the top of one of the hills. I am still laughing at that one to this day. (Sorry, Jesus!) Leave it to Eli to provide some comic relief.

We had realized that Hollywood was not the place to take kids, and taking 7 kids on an all-day excursion in a car coming off a full day at Disneyland, was not all that smart. Oh, well. Matt saved the day though. He drove straight to Santa Monica Pier. Moods quickly changed in our car once the kids saw the big ferris wheel. We parked in the parking garage, unloaded the choo-choo wagon, changed diapers, loaded up the littles, grabbed the diaper bag, put jackets on, and set out to to burn off more energy. We rounded the corner in the garage only to find it raining. RAIN? Are you kidding me? Where did that come from??? Are we being punked? Where's Ashton??? Now what??? We looked at each other and knew there was no way we were getting out of this one. Luckily it turned out to be a freak shower, and it ended almost as quickly as it started. Whew! The first thing we had to do was find a bathroom for our ever-so-patient Holt. The first one we came to happened to be in the building with the merry-go-round. The line was LONG, but we found ways to kill the time...

We hit the midway next. We let the kids choose 2 rides each. Despite the rain, the pier was still crowded, and the lines were long. Our trio was attracting quite a bit of attention, as usual. It was chilly, but the kids didn't care. You would think that they would be over riding rides after Disneyland... NOT!

We had planned to get home in time to cook fajitas out on the grill, but our change in plans resulted in us having churros and funnel cakes for dinner. We did stop at Subway on the way home, but more sugar was consumed than anything else. (I found the littles sandwiches on the floor of the car when we got back home, along with a full bag of Fritos.) We had happy kids again!

So, after a long day in the car, a few melt-downs, (and making one last stop on the side of the road for my buddy Holt) we headed home. All the little kids fell asleep on the ride back, as they should have... it was well past their bed time. We put everyone to bed as soon as we got home. We adults were exhausted! WHAT A DAY. We apologized to Kerri for giving her such a flop of a tour of Hollywood. BUT... it gave us something to do, and definitely some memories and stories to tell!

To this day, Holt insists that we never made it to Hollywood. Hollywood is NOT a restaurant.

At least he got his Sprite.

Staycation Day 3 - Disneyland!

2010-07-19T09:34:00.000-07:00

It's Friday and we're going to DISNEYLAND!!!

The kids were so excited to go and see Mickey Mouse. Holt was so excited, Kerri had to go out and buy him some anticipatory Mickey pajamas to wear on Thursday night (during his sleep-over...). We had just been there back in March, but my boys were still excited to go again. After all... it is Disneyland! Since we were a party of 10, we opted to take 2 cars this time. Noah, Eli, and Hailey loaded up with Matt in his car. Kerri and I didn't know how to act during our quiet (relatively speaking) drive with only the 4 smaller kids.

We parked in the 'Toy Story' lot, so we had to take the bus over to the park entrance. What we hadn't fully thought through, was that we had to break down the stroller (which was housing all of our 'gear') to load it onto the bus. Fortunately we've loaded this stroller in and out of the car so many times we have it down to a science. The bus driver was surprised to see how quickly we did it... but we were excited! The littles were thrilled to ride the bus... especially since they got to ride like big kids! (Luke is up front on my lap, so he's the one missing from this picture.)

The weather was beautiful! We lathered up the kids with sunscreen. Despite the June gloom from our beach day the day before, my trio's little faces were a bit on the 'pink' side. (Another Oops, on my part.)

Not a great picture of the littles, but getting seven kids to smile for the camera is nearly impossible.

We set out on our way and started riding rides, right from the go. The last time we went, we only let the littles out of the stroller a handful of times. We were a bit more adventurous this time and let them ride a few more things. Surprisingly they have come a long way in just a few months. Nobody was scared!

I packed our backpack leashes, but only had to get them out once. I should re-phrase... I only had to get ONE out for Aidan, who was a bit crazy in the line for the submarine. Otherwise they were good just standing in line.

Matt & I usually took the littles and Holt on a bathroom/diaper run when we got to the bigger rides. This worked out well, as it takes a long time to make four (actually 6) separate trips into the bathroom. I think Kerri had as much fun (or more) on the big kid rides than the kids did! I must admit I too, am a fan. Matt was left with 'quads' on a couple of the roller coasters!

Look who we found!!!

This was our favorite ride.... LOVE Eli and my hair in this picture. It's hard to tell in this shot, but Miss Hailey's mouth is wide open.... SO CUTE!

After we finished riding Space Mountain, and met back up with Matt (who had done surprisingly well with all 4 little kids... only lost ONE sock), it was starting to get dark. We can see the Disney fireworks from our backyard every night, so we didn't want to miss them live! The kids wanted to ride a few more rides while we were in Tomorrowland, so we were running a bit late. Kerri managed to get a shot of the castle while we were walking through the crowds of people.

The fireworks started at 9:30. People were lined up like crazy and it took us a few minutes to find a place to stand. We eventually got there. The Disney fireworks display is just amazing! However, once they were over it was mayhem. We were being forced through the crowd like herds of cattle. Not an easy task trying to maneuver a triple stroller, an umbrella stroller, and three other 'loose' kids. We were pushed right down main street, towards the gates. The big kids wanted ice cream, so we ducked in the (very crowded) ice cream parlor. We had planned to go back for more, but by that point we had 'lost' the little kids, and the big kids had had enough after 12 hours of fun.

I guess this is the sign of a good day...

I wish I had a picture of how we looked getting back onto the bus. We ended up just popping the stroller seats off and leaving the trio in them for the ride back to the parking lot. They looked hilarious snoozing in the stroller seats, but they had a full day.

We all did!

Staycation Day 2 - Beach Day!

2010-07-17T10:37:00.001-07:00

On Thursday morning all the kids woke up bright and early. Hailey and Holt were still on Texas time, so I didn't expect them to sleep too late, regardless of how long the sleepover drug on. We had designated this day as our 'beach day'. Unfortunately the 'June gloom' was still hanging around, so it didn't look to be the best day to frolic in the sand and work on our tans. We piddled around most of the morning... made breakfast, drank our coffee, played, etc. We decided around 11:00 that we might as well make a go of it. We packed ourselves a picnic of peanut butter & jelly sandwiches, chips, cookies, juice boxes (and Diet Coke) and set out on our way. We chose this particular beach for a couple of reasons. First, the parking lot was right on the sand so we didn't have to worry about walking too far with 7 kids in tow (scary thought, isn't it???). Probably more important, there are restroom facilities right there, just steps from the sand... perfect for our small-bladdered, potty-trained, Holt. I wasn't too nervous about taking all these kiddos to the beach with only the supervision of Kerri and I. The littles have been pretty good here recently. They are much more interested in playing in the sand and have shown very little interest in the water. I'm sure this will change soon, but for now I am very thankful!

Once we found our spot, we decided to start with lunch. You would have thought we hadn't fed the small children in three days the way they were eating. Come to think of it, I don't think the littles STOPPED eating the entire day. They found out what Cheetos Puffs are.... that bag didn't last 15 minutes... then they moved on to the barbeque chips. Every time I turned around my trio of little orange people had their cheeks stuffed like squirrels. Kerri and I had to stop eating the chips as the bag somehow got sand in it and we just couldn't deal with the grit. The littles, on the other hand, digested quite a bit of sand that day. We have made a bad habit of roaming meals here lately. For the record, roaming peanut butter & jelly sandwiches on the beach don't work all that well. They would fall sandwich first, into the sand, pick themselves back up, and just continue eating. Gross, I know. We did toss the sand-sandwiches once we found them... it was just usually too late. Protein, right?

It wasn't even 70 degrees when we got there. Kerri & I kept our jackets on the entire day. The big kids, Holt included, didn't seem to mind the cool temperatures. They had a ball, in and out of the (COLD) water! How cute are they???

They spent quite a bit of time working on this 'hole'. The littles decided that this was a pretty cool thing to do, so they joined right in.

The big kids became quite frustrated with the 'babies'. They were trying to dig their hole deeper and deeper, but the trio kept jumping in it and throwing toy in it. It got so deep, they hit water... which made it even more fascinating for the littles. The big kids ended up aborting this hole and they went on to start another one somewhere else. They're cool like that.

By this time, the tide was starting to come in, and I could just see the inevitable in my mind. I kept trying to drag all the shovels and buckets closer to our base camp, but there was no getting them away from it. Kerri and I were just sitting enjoying our view, when we both noticed a giant wave swell up. We were just thinking how amazingly cool it looked as it crashed onto the sand. What we hadn't really considered was what would happen right after that... the gully-wash of water that raced up onto the shore, farther up onto the sand than it had been all day. Oops. We both flew up off of our perch and raced to get the littles out of their hole, that once was. A very nice man had already pulled one of them up and was chasing their buckets and shovels for them. Poor little guys were drenched, and scared to death, after being picked up and thrown face-first into the beach by the surge of water. Like I said.... OOPS.

We brought them back up to our spot and wrapped them up in towels. They were done with the 'hole' at that point, lol. Poor babies!

Did you notice the choo-choo wagon in the background? It won't roll on the sand with 80+ pounds of kids in it, but it sure does make a great mode of transportation for all the beach gear.

Before we knew it, it was 4:30 and time for us to call it a day. We headed home to get all 7 kiddos bathed and fed for an early bedtime. After all, we had DISNEYLAND in the morning!!! Woot!

Staycation Recap - Day 1

2010-07-14T10:53:00.002-07:00

My good friend Kerri (whom I've known since elementary school) and her 2 kiddos, Hailey and Holt, came to visit us last week. They are officially our very FIRST visitors since we've been here in Cali! The timing worked out perfectly, in that it fell during N&E's summer break from school. Hailey is the same age as Eli, and Holt is almost 4... about 16 months older than the trio. We decided to make this our summer 'STAYCATION', seems how we are fortunate enough to live in a 'vacation' destination.

Kerri also came to stay with us for a few days when the littles were just 2 months old, back when we were in Austin, Tx. They've grown a bit... (the littles, that is...)

We were lucky enough to have our friends here with us for 6 days and 5 nights, so I'll be breaking up the posts by day in order to capture all of the fun. Fortunately Kerri brought her camera, and she was nice enough to share her pics, seems how I still have not been able to replace mine!

They arrived last Wednesday, and their flight didn't get in until almost 3:00pm. We were so excited! I put the littles down for a nap early so that we could pick them up on time, and in good spirits. Aidan slept like a rock for his usual hour, or so. Luke & Liam... not so much. They partied up in their cribs until I picked them back up to load into the car for our trip to the airport. Matt was working, so I was picking them up solo in the Suburban. My particular Suburban has a bench-type seat in the front, with a 3rd seat belt hidden under the center console. We never use it, but in this instance, we had no choice. Can you picture it... 2 adults + 7 kids in 1 vehicle? Here's a shot of what my car looked like just minutes after loading up. (Noah is in the front seat with Kerri & I, and it's Luke that is hiding from the camera.)

How cute is Miss Hailey in the middle of all those BOYS??? I'm not sure she knew what she was in for at this point. All the kids seemed to get along great right from the start!

Since it was already late afternoon, we didn't have much planned. We had to make a quick trip by the house to unload Kerri's (52 pound) suitcase, and replace it with a form of triplet transportation. My initial thought was to drive them down the PCH to scope out the various beaches around us, and stop for ice cream to tide us over until dinner. By the time we got back on the road and to our ice cream destination, I realized that it was fast approaching (or past) the dinner hour back in Texas. Kerri and I decided to be brave and take all 7 kids inside the restaurant and actually attempt to sit down at a table for dinner. I was AFRAID.... very AFRAID, of how the littles might act...

I was pleasantly surprised at how GOOD they were! They actually sat in high chairs and behaved, go figure! It might have had something to do with the fact that they hadn't eaten since lunch, as we went straight to the airport after naps. That, or they were trying to break Kerri in to the chaos easy. Give them time...

We hadn't even sat down at our table when Kerri got to experience her very first earthquake! The restaurant we went to was on the end of a very long pier in Huntington Beach. Probably not the best place to be, during an earthquake! We were swaying back and forth when the waitress asked... "are we earthquake-ing?". It wasn't 20 seconds after that that Matt called me on my phone asking what Kerri thought about it. She actually thought it was 'cool', just like I did the first few times it happened. It's a new thing for us Texans! It was a 5.4, centered in Borrego Springs, CA... wherever that is!

Matt met us at the restaurant just as we were finishing up. Noah ended up going back to his car with him. He wasn't all that thrilled about riding up front sandwiched between Kerri and I. Stay tuned... he later will come to find that it was quite a comfortable spot, indeed.

Kerri got a cute shot of all the kids on the pier before we made our way back down to our cars. Luke's still not happy. I guess next time he should take his nap. Holt is still all smiles, hangin' just fine with the big boys, and our lone girl Hailey is holding her own. Good times!

We loaded back up and drove along the coast, in order to pick out 'our' beach for Thursday. (Thursday was our 'beach day'.) I drove them from Huntington Beach up to Laguna Beach, and we decided on a spot in between.... Corona Del Mar. Once this was decided, we opted to head back home. By this time all the kids were starting to get a bit restless, as expected since it was getting late. We had some play time at the house, then got all the kids settled for their first 'sleep-over'. The 4 big kiddos all slept in N&E's room. Holt had his own twin-sized inflatable mattress, Eli took the floor next to him in his sleeping bag, Hailey had E's bed, and Noah kept his own on the top bunk. The room was full, to say the least, but they enjoyed it. Before we knew it, day 1 had come to an end.

Tune in tomorrow for Day 2 pics from the beach!

Main Dish Monday - Summer Stir Fry

2010-07-05T18:30:00.000-07:00

Source: The Pioneer Woman, Ree Drummond

Ok... so I've let my 'Main Dish Monday' posts slide the last couple of weeks. It's really just been for me anyway, so that I have all of my favorite recipes in one place. For now, I will continue to post new recipes as I try them out, just not necessarily EVERY week. In other words.... it's my excuse for falling down on the job!

I just happened to make this one tonight and it's a keeper! It's also quick and easy enough for a weeknight meal, not to mention it's HEALTHY... gasp!

Ingredients

2 Tablespoons Butter
2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
4 cloves Garlic, Minced
12 whole Jumbo Shrimp, Peeled, Deveined, Tails Left On (I used about 1/2 lb large vs jumbo)
2 whole Zucchini, Sliced On A Slight Diagonal
2 ears Corn, Kernels Sliced Off
½ cups Grape Tomatoes, Sliced In Half Lengthwise
Salt And Freshly Ground Pepper, To Taste
Chopped Fresh Herbs, If Desired

Preparation Instructions

Heat 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic. When oil/butter is hot, add shrimp and cook for 3 minutes. Remove to a plate. Do not clean skillet.

Add the rest of the butter and oil and heat over medium heat. Add zucchini slices in a single layer and cook for one minute, tossing once. Scoot the zucchini to the edges of the pan, then add corn kernels to the middle of the pan. Cook for one minute. Add grape tomatoes, salt, and pepper, and toss around, then add shrimp. Cook for an additional 30 seconds, then remove from heat. Serve on a big platter.

Enjoy!

For Lack of Pictures...

2010-07-05T15:35:00.000-07:00

Wondering where I've been? Unfortunately I haven't had a lot to post, because I haven't had any pictures to post. My long-time friend in my Canon Poweshot has bit the dust... at the hands of the littles, go figure. I caught them doing something funny last week and I grabbed my camera, turned it on, and to my surprise found a very 'fried' display with additional evidence of trauma on the bottom left corner. I have since found that it does still take pictures, you just have absolutely NO IDEA what you are taking a picture of since it's not on the display. GRRRR! I asked N&E if they had used my camera, or if they remembered one of the babies using it. Eli was quick to tell me, "oh yeah... the babies had it but we got it back." Hmmmm... sounds innocent enough right? "It doesn't work anymore Eli... any idea what may have happened to it?"

"Oh, yeah... I think Liam might have thrown it". You think???

So... for now, I have no camera. I could always take pictures with my phone and post them, but a couple of weeks ago I turned around to find my Blackberry getting a BATH under the kitchen faucet (this was 2 days after several keys were removed from Matt's laptop, btw...)!!! I won't mention any names of who the culprit(s) was. After leaving it out for 24 hours to dry like this...

It has come back to life and is 'functional' as far as the 'phone' and 'email' applications go. However, the camera part is 'fried' just like my Canon, and all the pictures, etc. I had stored on it are dead. The Blackberry itself has several lives... kinda like a cat, I guess. My guess is I'm running low.

So... are you keeping track? In the last 2 weeks the littles have almost killed my Blackberry, seriously mangled Matt's laptop (several of the keys won't go back on... stupid Dell!) and nuked the Canon. BOYS are so DESTRUCTIVE!!!

It doesn't help that my little people are getting so TALL. Nothing is safe anymore. NOTHING. Especially if you are an electronic device!

California Boys...

2010-06-30T09:11:00.000-07:00

These boys really have no idea how lucky they are to grow up living in a place like this. How many kids can roll out of bed on an ordinary, non-vacation kind-of day, throw on some clothes, and head down to the beach for breakfast? I certainly didn't have that! Growing up in north Texas, I was lucky to go to Galveston once a year, if that... and it took several hours in the car and a hotel stay to make that to happen. We have to remind ourselves each day just how fortunate we are to be here. Sure, it's expensive to live in Cali, and we've had to make some lifestyle changes to make it work. (My older boys now think we used to live in a 'mansion' in Texas, lol.) However, all of our changes have been worth it so far, and I'm finding myself willing to make even more. I'm starting to 'get it'. You just can't ask for better weather, and the scenery is just beautiful. We haven't even had to run the air conditioner yet and it's almost July! Considering last year at this time we were in Vegas in 110 degree heat, this is crazy! We just LOVE it here, and I'm thankful for each and every day. Hopefully we'll be here for a long, long time. Sure, it gets a bit lonely being so far away from all our friends and family, but we're hoping to have visitors (hint, hint)!

Matt took a few pics of the boys playing in the sand (while waiting on our table for brunch) this past Sunday. I myself, was perched on a picnic table just enjoying the 'view'. The beach was pretty empty since it was fairly early and since 'June gloom' is still in full force. They loved having so much room to explore and play. The rocks and sticks were a big hit for all of them!

I can't help but notice how Eli's hair is starting to bleach out from the California sun. I'm going to have to keep some of those sticks around the house to fight the girls away from my 5 handsome California boys!!!

Mi 3 Amigos...

2010-06-29T10:25:00.000-07:00

Here lately, the littles are starting to play really well together. Sure, lots of times 3's still a crowd, but they're getting better at sharing (better is a relative term around here...). They still usually play in 'pairs', but the they take turns so that there's no clear 'favorite' brother. Lately they've been asking for Eli to play with them (Aidan calls him 'Ly'). E's still at the age where he likes to play, and they LOVE him for it... so I guess you could say that E's the favorite brother right now. Some of the most popular activities these days are cars (all shapes and sizes, but the firetrucks are frequently fought over), choo-choos, blocks, and of course their 'bikes' they got from Santa (Santa could not have picked a better present for these boys!). My kitchen is still a bike racetrack every single day. Eli rides one of them, often on the back of one of the littles and they fly around here like crazy. I've been trying to get this on video because it's hysterical to watch, and just can't fully be explained in words. Chaos at its best. I'll keep working on it. It's never quiet at my house, that's for sure.

On the home front, Matt & I celebrated our TWELFTH anniversary this past Sunday. Twelve years and five kids later... and still going strong. We had brunch at our favorite cafe at the beach then laid low the rest of the day. It was a great day!

Noah & Eli are officially out of school for their summer break. No more 1st or 4th graders here! This is their first of 5 full weeks off, and so far so good. (I may eat those words by week's end, but for now we're doing ok.) It's been nice not having to load up the car for the to/from school routine. It's also been nice not to have to wake the littles from their naps in the afternoons. We have a special visitor coming in less than 2 weeks and we're planning to enjoy our stay-cation by doing Disneyland, the beaches, Hollywood, etc. We're all looking forward to it!

Just a few 'play' pics from last week...

Liam decided to give Luke a ride just like big brother E does it... so sweet!

Pooh is one of our 'babies' these days...

Yes... Luke has a belt in his hand. Daddy must have left it somewhere, and for some reason Luke thought it would be fun to play with.

I love this picture of Luke... he looks so innocent! That's the top of Aidan's head. He didn't seem to want to look at the camera this day, I guess...

Notice the big bruise on Liam's head? He gave that to his daddy on father's day by diving off one of the dining room chairs. Matt's favorite color is green, but this may not be his favorite shade...

And this is one of my new favorite pics... my 3 amigos...

Liam flooded his brown shorts, that's why he's wearing a different color. Hey... at least he's got shorts on this time!

Adios amigos!!!

Thursday Tidbits...

2010-06-24T10:52:00.001-07:00

You can take the boy out of Texas, but you can't take Texas out of the boy....

My little rhinestone cowboy...

Sweet.... ?

Ummm... Ok... Yea...

Want to know what happens when you feed Liam donuts for breakfast?

He FLIES!!! No photo-shopping here... crazy, huh???

And... as usual... the love seat cushions are on the floor!!! Oh, and did you notice who was missing his shorts again???

Is it Friday yet???

Leapin' Lizards...

2010-06-23T21:00:00.000-07:00

The boys found a small lizard outside on the patio this evening. They scared it so, it ran between the little refrigerator and the bar top. Aidan drug me outside to see it, and it was such a fascinating sight to see, I had plenty of time to go back in and get my camera. They weren't going anywhere. Poor lizard... bet he doesn't come back to my house anytime soon...

And I have absolutely no idea where Liam's shorts are. No telling with him.

I just had to include this short video of the event... just ignore the fact that they are all just filthy (in addition to missing articles of clothing). They had dinner outside at their picnic table and I hadn't cleaned them up yet... ok, so there's a bit (or so) of dirt in the mix too. Anyway... I just love how this video illustrates just how true the 'three's a crowd' statement is sometimes around here. You can just watch as the tension builds... then someone breaks, lol!

Do GIRLS do this???

I HATE lizards, by the way...

Guacamole, Anyone???

2010-06-21T17:35:00.000-07:00

This is what happens to fresh produce when you leave 3 toddlers in the very capable, exceptional hands of 2 elementary-aged siblings (with heads buried in video games), while you quickly run upstairs to 'flip' your laundry.

Triplets - 1, Avocado - 0

This particular avocado was found in this condition on my leather couch. Well, at least it's leather... could be worse. Another avocado is still M-I-A. I've threatened N&E that I won't feed them dinner if it's not found. So far they could care less.

Probably, because as I was searching for still-missing said avocado, I found this buried under the love seat cushions, which were on the floor again, as usual...

We're having guacamole with dinner tonight. Well... Matt & I are, at least.

Life is Good...

2010-06-21T10:40:00.000-07:00

Liam has now mastered the art of reclining...

Life is good...

Not Happy...

2010-06-17T18:14:00.001-07:00

Ever since THIS incident, we've had the littles in crib tents. Ahhh... what a wonderful invention these things are! I LOVE them. The littles don't mind them either. In fact, they actually will tell me to zip them if I don't do it quick enough... or they'll try and do it themselves. They were NOWHERE NEAR ready for the freedom of toddler beds, and still aren't. I learned that the hard way. Honestly I am hoping to avoid toddler beds all together and go straight to big boy (twin) beds. However, finding a house with a large enough room to fit 3 twin beds (in California) is going to present some challenges. There's not way they will ever have their own room unless I hit the lottery. It was hard enough for us to find a 4 bedroom house out here, much less a SIX bedroom... in budget, at least. So... I'm planning to keep them in their tented cribs for as long as I can... Well, I was... anyway.

Over the last week or so, Luke has been 'picking' at his crib tent. I say 'picking', but I honestly don't know what he's been doing to it... I can only assume. I haven't been at all happy about this, but what can you do? Sure , I can tell him 'no, no', and 'uh-oh', etc... but what good is that once the damage is done? Do they really even understand what I'm saying? My guess is yes, though they choose to ignore me.

If that wasn't enough, this is unfortunately contagious. I went to wake Luke & Liam from nap yesterday so we could pick N&E up from school, and this is what I found... Liam's crib this time...

Grrrr!!! I am NOT HAPPY about this one bit!!! How did he even do this? At roughly $80 a pop, I'm not too keen on replacing these tents either. I already had one with a defective zipper from the initial purchase that I returned. No additional out-of-pocket cost, but a hassle for sure.

Who knows what will happen next. Nap time seems to be the issue. They don't seem to mess with them at night. Sweet Aidan is the only innocent one this time, go figure... guess there are advantages for sleeping alone on my bed at nap time. For now they are going to continue to sleep in these things until they are no longer recognizable.

Care to place any bets on how long that will be??? As I type this, I can hear a party going on in the trio's room. Pray for me.

Red Balloons...

2010-06-17T09:45:00.000-07:00

The other day I took the littles to the grocery store for a few items. I typically don't take them with me to the supermarket. Target, yes... normal grocery stores... no. The aisles at Target are nice and wide, and it's almost an entertainment venue for us (well it is for ME, anyway.) However, I found myself low (completely OUT) on milk in a mid-week situation, as well as a few other staples we need around here. (We go through a ridiculous amount of milk, cheese, bread, peanut butter, waffles, & chicken around this house... among other things!!!)

So... after our school drop off of N&E, we headed straight to the store. I took them to a store that I typically don't go to. They had a few items in their ad that I had coupons for, that would make them free (told you... addicting...) so I figured, why not? I actually enjoy grocery shopping. That's another reason why I like to do it BY MYSELF. That's MY time. I don't go to the salon every week, no massages, it's been over 9 months since my last 'professional pedicure', no clothing shopping sprees, very infrequent Mom's night outs... I do, however, usually go to the store every week... ALONE. And it makes me happy.

On this particular trip, the store manager found us intriguing... more so than most people, and that's saying something. She brought each toddler their very own red balloon. She even put the little weights on the bottom of them so we didn't have to worry about them flying away. They were THRILLED, to say the least. We usually avoid the 'balloon guy' when we are out at restaurants, etc., mainly because they cause 'issues' at the table.... and those 'issues' usually end up in a fight, someone's balloon animal losing a leg, or worse yet, popping. Of course, this made us even more of a circus attraction... me pushing my triple stroller with 3 bright red helium balloons attached to 3 similar-looking toddlers, all while pulling my grocery cart now filled with all sorts of items not on my list... but they were happy, which makes me happy! The car ride home was interesting with three helium balloons, but the trio wasn't letting them go for anything.

Who knew a simple balloon could provide so much entertainment? They played with these things for HOURS. HOURS. They wouldn't let them go, even for nap. I wrestled them away from Luke & Liam and compromised by placing on the end of their cribs (while they slept in their crib tents) Aidan, who is still napping on my bed, slept with his. Unfortunately I did not capture a picture of him snoozing next to his red balloon, but it was priceless. All in all, the balloons provided a full day of fun at our house before they met their demise, one by one. Once the big boys got home from school I knew it was only a matter of time.... and I was right.

A quick video clip...

And a few pictures...

Have I mentioned how THANKFUL I am, that the cushions on our primary den furniture are permanently 'attached'? I can't count the number of times I put these things back on each day!!!

Main Dish Monday - Spinach & Ricotta-Stuffed Shells

2010-06-14T10:35:00.000-07:00

Source: Real Simple, May 2010

This is a quick and easy weeknight meal idea! I made it last night, but only I used 1/2 the ricotta called for in the recipe. Stuffed shells are typically too rich for me, but I found using 1/2 the ricotta worked perfectly for my palette! (I also probably went a little heavier on the spinach since I just eye-balled it.)

Ingredients:

20 jumbo pasta shells (about half a 12-ounce box)
1 24-ounce jar marinara sauce
2 15-ounce containers ricotta
2 cups baby spinach, chopped
1/2 cup grated Parmesan (2 ounces)
kosher salt and black pepper
1/2 cup grated mozzarella (4 ounces)

Directions:

Set an oven rack to the highest position and heat oven to 400° F. Cook the pasta according to the package directions; drain and run under cold water until cool.

Spread the marinara sauce in the bottom of a large broiler proof baking dish.

In a bowl, combine the ricotta, spinach, Parmesan, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper.

Spoon the mixture into the shells and place them on top of the sauce. Sprinkle with the mozzarella and bake until the shells are heated through, 10 to 12 minutes.

Increase heat to broil. Broil the shells until the cheese begins to brown, 2 to 5 minutes.

Tip: Supercharge these shells by adding extra vegetables. Chop up mushrooms, cooked green beans, broccoli, or asparagus and fold them into the ricotta mixture along with the spinach!

Enjoy!

What I'm Willing to do for Free Ice Cream...

2010-06-10T11:37:00.000-07:00

I know I mentioned the other day I've become one of those coupon fanatics. Matt thinks I'm obsessed. Maybe I am... who knows? It is rather addicting, once you start getting the hang of it. Extremely addicting, actually. You would be surprised at how much you can get for free or almost free, if you pay attention. I got paid $4 this week to purchase 4 bottles of Windex. (Yes, you read that right.) Anyway, when a post about free ice cream at CVS made its way to my in-box, it got my attention.

CVS is not a place I typically take the littles (never). Afterall, SICK people go to CVS. (Germ-o-phobe in me, again.) I've been playing the drugstore game the last few weeks with CVS & Walgreens, but I do it solo, or when I have someone that can sit in the car with the kiddos while I run in. However, when free ice cream is involved...

It wasn't worth it to try and load/unload the triple stroller for a 2 minute trip inside, nor are the CVS aisles wide enough for my patience level. This is a terrible picture, but I did what I could with my cell phone. They were actually thrilled to do this, despite the grimace on Aidan & Luke's faces. And yes, Liam sat down while the cart was moving. I will note, that I completely hosed this cart down with my purse-sized Lysol before I put them in here. Yes, I did.

I also ignored this...

Technically, I did not put a child in the cart... I put THREE CHILDREN in it.

And look what I walked out of CVS with... all for $1. ONE dollar for 10 mini ice creams.

For those of you with an ice cream addiction and/or sweet tooth like mine, Skinny Cow has dropped $1/1 coupons, and also B2G1 free coupons. If you 'LIKE' skinny cow on Facebook you can print yourself some too (2 prints each coupon, per computer). CVS has the Skinny Cow mini cups on sale for $1 through Saturday, so each $1/1 coupon will get you 1 free. I used (4) $1/1 coupons, and (2) B2G1 free coupons, plus my $3 ECB that I scored from buying Diet Coke earlier in the week (never can have too much Diet Coke) making my net total just $1 for 10.

YUM! I had the 'Caramel Cone' last night and it was De-lish! Matt enjoyed the Dulce de Lece... and refrained from making fun of me while he was eating it.

Revenge of the Doritos...

2010-06-09T09:01:00.000-07:00

I really need to remind Noah to re-latch the child-lock on the cabinets in the mornings after packing his lunch...

I found this after turning off my vacuum cleaner (from cleaning up the littles' cereal fiasco...), only to notice the extreme silence in the room... that's never a good thing here.

I look over my shoulder to see this:

Well, at least they sat themselves at the table like gentlemen!

No, I do not feed my short people Nacho Cheese Doritos... not intentionally, anyway. Especially not for breakfast. Gross.

Twice now in two weeks. We're on a roll here! Unfortunately Noah probably won't be happy when he finds Goldfish crackers in his lunchbox tomorrow.

Chill-axin' With the Sunday Funnies...

2010-06-07T08:36:00.000-07:00

Sunday morning as I was clipping my coupons, I happened to look up and see Aidan like this...

Awww...I just LOVE my little 'ole man, lol!

Main Dish Monday - Chili Lime Chicken Marinade

2010-06-07T08:05:00.000-07:00

Source: Allrecipes.com

It's grilling season! This original recipe was written as a recipe for chicken kabobs, but I found it to be a great marinade for any type of chicken. I personally used chicken breasts and cooked them outside on the grill, but you can also cook them indoors, using the the broiler.

Ingredients:

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 lime, juiced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
cayenne pepper to taste
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breast halves - cut into 1 1/2 inch pieces

Directions:

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, and lime juice. Season with chili powder, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.

Place the chicken in a shallow baking dish (or ziploc bag) with the sauce, and stir to coat. Cover, and marinate in the refrigerator at least 1 hour (I marinated mine 4+ hours).

Preheat the grill for medium-high heat and cook until done.

Enjoy!

I Found Heaven on the Frozen Foods Aisle...

2010-06-03T09:32:00.000-07:00

I apologize in advance to those of you that are not fortunate enough to live in a town with a Trader Joe's. I *heart* Trader Joe's. Unfortunately I haven't been to my beloved Trader's recently, as I have become one of those 'crazy coupon ladies' (and finally getting good at it, I might add!). However... I've had this in my freezer for quite some time now...

I fell in love with the idea of this, when I saw these on the shelf. Unfortunately, until now, I have never remembered to take them out of the freezer ahead of time. These have to rise overnight (9 hours), and let's face it, breakfast isn't usually on my mind after my reality television. I guess 'So You Think You Can Dance' left me thinking about food last night.... I'd blame it on 'Jillian', but she's on my DVR still waiting to be watched. She probably wouldn't approve of these anyway.

This package is maybe 6 inches long, if that, and inside it has 4 chocolate filled croissants in it. When you take them out of the package they are tiny. Yet, look what I awoke to this morning! Fluffy greatness!

After 25 minutes in the oven, this was my result. My house smells like a little French bakery right now... Je t'adore... délicieuse!!!

And I have some happy children...

And I'm one happy mamma... YUM!

The ONLY drawback/flaw/negative I see to these, would be this...

And it's really only a downside because ever since our Miss Hannigan video event, Liam fights me for the vacuum... they all do, actually. (Who knew a Dyson could provide so much entertainment?)

And... at 320 calories and 18g of fat, EACH... I should be thankful that there are only 4 in a package...

Unfortunately, I'm NOT!!! Must buy TWO boxes next time!!! (Come on... I have 5 kids and a husband that blames ME for his new-found sweet tooth.)

Perhaps I should go and watch Jillian now.

Au revoir!

Our 1st Warm Holiday Weekend in Cali...

2010-06-01T11:40:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, we woke up to a beautiful day here in sunny California. We decided to venture out for a walk around one of the beaches. Eli chose the location this time... Balboa Island. (The boys love to walk around Balboa because not only do they get to see all the boats, the beach, marine life, etc., they get to ride scooters and usually end up with a frozen chocolate banana.) We loaded up the car and hit the road around 10:00am. We had to make a quick stop at Target to exchange N&E's rash guard shirts, other than that we were on our way. Our destination was no more than 15 minutes away, so we would still get there with plenty of time for a walk, a quick splash in the ocean, and even lunch, before nap time. So we thought...

Remember, we are still rookie Californians. This was our first warm holiday weekend, and quite frankly we weren't really expecting what we found. I honestly hadn't even thought about people taking vacations on the long holiday weekend. Friends... Balboa Island is NOT the place for locals to go on a holiday weekend. There was absolutely NO parking anywhere to be found. We circled around all the neighboring streets, all the public lots, got sandwiched on a one-way street in the line for the ferry, etc. At 12:30 we gave up and aborted Balboa Island. (Yes... I said 12:30... 2 1/2 hours after we left the house.) We were all STARVING, not to mention it was already almost nap time. I ran into a Subway, and after standing in a line out the door (crazy!!) for 30 minutes, we at least had food. Car food... while we searched for a place to park at our next beach of choice. We finally found a parking space after another 30 minutes or so.

There was no way we could NOT go to the beach. 'BEACH' is a well-used word these days by the trio... right up there with 'BUS'. They LOVE the beach. If you even say the word, they go crazy... "ME! ME! ME DOES!!!" N&E were set on getting in the water too, so it was going to happen one way or the other. Our plans had changed now. Remember we were supposed to go for a walk, then eat and let N&E take a quick splash. Now this was just a beach trip... which I had not packed (or dressed) for. The only ones in bathing suits were N&E. Fortunately the littles are more interested in the sand than the water.

We ended up staying until after 5:00, and everyone had fun, so it was time well spent. The littles didn't even notice they had missed their naps, and I think we had all forgotten about our morning 3-hour tour of parked cars. When we got back into the car to head home Noah actually asked if we were just going to get something to eat and if we were going to go right back. They just 'hate' living in California, lol.

Here are a couple of shots of the 'less-crowded' beach. Unfortunately the pics just don't do it justice. It was insane.

And a few shots of the kiddos playing in the sand... They had a blast. Luke has officially gotten over his fear/dislike of sand, as you will see. They found a 'hole' that some other kids had dug, and this kept them entertained for a LONG time. N&E played in the ocean most of the day. I put my feet in once, and the water was ice COLD. I don't know how they could stand it.... they're boys.

When we were leaving the littles all were shouting "Bye Beach!". They asked the entire way home "Where'd Beach go???".

Oh, and today there is sand on the laundry room floor... AGAIN. And we won't even discuss what my car looks like.

Hope everyone had a great Memorial Day weekend!!!

Main Dish Monday - Spaghetti with Artichoke Hearts & Tomatoes

2010-05-31T09:11:00.000-07:00

Source: My favorite Pioneer Woman... Ree Drummond
(Her picture below... she's also a photographer... I'm clearly NOT!)

This is one of those 'I need to go to the store because we have no food in the house, yet I don't want to' meals.... aka, 'pantry meals'. As it's written it's a vegetarian dish. However, feel free to toss in some chicken if you so desire!

Ingredients:

2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
2 Tablespoons Butter
3 cloves Garlic, Minced
½ whole Medium Onion, Finely Diced
1 can Artichoke Hearts (14.5 Oz. Quartered Or Whole) Drained
1 can Diced Tomatoes With Juice (14.5 Oz.)
1 cup Heavy Cream
½ cups Chicken Broth (More As Needed)
½ teaspoons Nutmeg
Salt And Pepper, to taste
1 pound Thin Spaghetti
1 cup Parmesan Cheese, Freshly Grated
2 Tablespoons Fresh Chives (or Other Herbs) Chopped

Preparation Instructions:

Cook spaghetti until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Melt olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic and saute for 2 to 3 minutes.

Add artichoke hearts and tomatoes. Stir and cook for 8 to 10 minutes. Reduce heat to low. Stir in cream and chicken broth. Add salt and pepper to taste (do not undersalt!) Cook over low heat until heated through, then turn off heat.

Place drained pasta in a large bowl. Sprinkle with 1 cup Parmesan. Pour sauce over the top. Add chives. Toss lightly to combine and coat; add a tiny bit of reserved pasta water if sauce seems too thick.

Delicious!

(Note: You can also eliminate the cream and just use more chicken broth if you are trying to cut down on the fat... or if you just don't have any cream in the house! I made it without the cream and it was still de-lish!)

Gettin' Jiggy Wit It...

2010-05-27T10:15:00.000-07:00

Now who says you can't 'get up and move' and watch tv at the same time?

Orange...

2010-05-26T08:46:00.000-07:00

This is what Luke INSISTED on having for breakfast this morning.

Yep. Nacho cheese Doritos. When I say 'INSISTED', I am not exaggerating. Not one bit. Noooooooo. He helped himself to the bag while we were getting Eli ready for his field trip today. He was not letting go of this bag... for ANYTHING. If I've learned one thing over the last 2 years & 5 months, it's that you DON'T MESS WITH LUKE'S FOOD. He's 'little', but he's 'LOUD'.

This is one battle I was NOT prepared to fight this morning... So I didn't.

Yes... it went with us in the car on the way to take N&E to school. Don't judge.

He wasn't too keen on what it was doing to his fingers... but he still wasn't letting go of the bag. No way.

He didn't much care what it was doing to his face.

Fortunately, unlike the 'BLUE' from earlier in the week with Liam, the 'ORANGE' washes off. Fortunately.

One last thing... If you've had any experience at all with Nacho Cheese Doritos, you will most certainly remember the trait that clearly sets them apart from ordinary chips. MILES apart.

My car smells **LOVELY** right now. Wanna go for a ride?

Melts In Your Mouth, Not In Your Hands...

2010-05-24T09:40:00.000-07:00

This, my friends... is from ONE Pretzel M&M. Yes... just ONE. One, single, blue, smaller-than-a-marble, round, sweet-yet-salty, piece of candy...

These are amazing, by the way... in case you haven't tried them, and if you happen to have a sweet tooth like me... (Liam does)...

This child's hands were blue for TWO DAYS. He looked like a smurf for TWO DAYS. No amount of soap would get it off. (You might notice that Luke has a box of raisins...)

There you go... you now have justification to eat the entire bag ALL BY YOURSELF. No guilt for not sharing with your children.... nope... none at all. INDULGE!

I just had a bag for breakfast. No guilt here.

Main Dish Monday - Baked Ziti

2010-05-24T08:41:00.000-07:00

Source: Allrecipes.com

This is one of my stand-by recipes because it is fool-proof, and fabulous! This is one that I can put together early in the day (i.e. nap time), refrigerate, then just bake it at dinner time, along with some crusty French bread. Mmmmm... Guess what I'm having for dinner tonight?

Ingredients:

1 pound dry ziti pasta
1 onion, chopped
1 pound lean ground beef
2 (26 ounce) jars spaghetti sauce
6 ounces provolone cheese, sliced
1 1/2 cups sour cream
6 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add ziti pasta, and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes; drain.

In a large skillet, brown onion and ground beef over medium heat. Add spaghetti sauce, and simmer 15 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Butter a 9x13 inch baking dish. Layer as follows: 1/2 of the ziti, Provolone cheese, sour cream, 1/2 sauce mixture, remaining ziti, mozzarella cheese and remaining sauce mixture. Top with grated Parmesan cheese.

Bake for 30 minutes in the preheated oven, or until cheeses are melted.

(Note: I have made this with ground turkey and also with Italian sausage... this one never disappoints!)

Enjoy!