triple the blessings

In regards to my slacking...

2009-03-01T23:35:00.004-05:00

Ok I suck.

I had the best intentions, but I can't keep up with this blog for some reason? If you'd like to keep in touch add me on Facebook here . As always, I will continue to be touched, entertained, and inspired by all of your blogs.

All My Love,
Melissa

Converstaions to remember

2009-01-09T02:33:00.010-05:00

This evening was one of inquisitive questions, endless chatter, and heart melting innocence. I have to take a moment and get a couple of our conversations in writing so that I can look back when they are all grown out of those precious munchkin voices. As we are loading up the suburban for our weekly winter tradition at Chick-fil-A...

Mason
"Mommy, I want Jesus to sit in the back with me"

Me
"Honey, Jesus is all around us, and so are his angels"

Mason
"and he takes care of us when we get dead like a bug and go to heaven???"

Me
(giggling) "yup, that's right"

*****

Kyle
"Mommy(as he is fighting me to not lift him in to the truck, pointing at the moon)I want to put the moon in my purse"

Me
"Ky the moon has to stay up in the sky"

Kyle
"if I take it down it will be broken?"

*yes, Kyle insisted on borrowing Asjia's purse to Chick-fil-A to tote his favorite puppy along.

*****
Asjia
"Mommy I don't want A(referring to her initial), I want M like you"

Me
"but mommy picked out A especially for you"

Asjia
"Nooooooooooooo, I don't want AAAAAAAA"
***crying & cranky, but cute nonetheless

New Things

2009-01-08T12:57:00.002-05:00

As I begin to get back in touch with my blog, I can't help but cringe everytime I look at it. I did the header myself last year and it is very outdated. My little slice of the internet needs a makeover! Any ideas?

Secondly, on another forum I contribute to my peers were buzzing about makeup blogs. Most of the wonderfully talented people I work with have one where they document their career or review products. I have decided to start one about Working Mom's. It will be not only about being a Mom and a Makeup Artist, but a working Mom in general. I will update you wth details soon!

Wordful Wednesdays!

2009-01-07T12:41:00.001-05:00

As I find myself buried in full memory cards from my camera and oodles of pictures from the months passed, along comes a new idea...Wordful Wednesday! Hosted by one of my favorite bloggers, Angie, this is perfect for me!

I dropped out of the blogging scene for a while and returned to all sorts of new and exciting happenings! Ladies, let me know if I am doing this right?

This was a couple weeks ago when Nina & Grandpa were here visiting. Oh what a new day it must be that I can get these little monkeys to all sit down together and look at the camera!

Farewell 2008

2009-01-03T17:15:00.005-05:00

Wow people. I can't believe the year has passed. 2008 was a great one....a year of change, growth, and learning. I was shocked when I finally peeked at my lonely blog a few weeks ago and realized my last post was kind of a dreadful subject and even worse, written over 6 months ago. Shame on me! I miss my blog buddies and the laughter and tears I shed over all of your lives. One of my New Years resolutions is to make time to blog. I started this as a documentation of my kids lives so that they could enjoy it one day, so I will get busy! I may rewind and post snippets of things missed in the last few months.

I am also thinking about starting a makeup blog. As many of you know, last year I had some tough decisions to make about my career. I was sad to walk away from my job at MAC not realizing what a wonderful & exciting path was in store for me. I couldn't be happier with how it has all happened. I really thought leaving would mean me never having a career in makeup, little did I know it was quite the opposite! Stay tuned for the new blog...until then you can check out http://www.melissajonesmakeup.com/ if are interested in what I have been up to.

Best wishes for love, laughter, and continued blessings in 2009!

oxo

Married with Children.

2008-05-29T13:33:00.005-04:00

I recently heard that the new divorce rate for married couples is 43% for first marriages and jumps to 67% for second marriages. That combined with the statistic that couples with multiples are three times more likely to divorce makes me feel a little doomed. This is my second marriage, I have triplets, and truth be told my marriage often times does feel the stress of our lives.

I heard another interesting remark on the subject of marriage & children recently and dug around online to find some discussion about it. This is the belief that the secret to a happiness and longevity in a marriage is keeping your husband first, kids second. This sparked my interest since I have never considered this the order of my priorities, my kids have been above all since the moment they were brought in to this world.

Here is some of the discussion
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20070622113753AAADcd0

What are your thoughts on this subject? What are your secrets to a strong, happy marriage while managing the stress of having children? I would love to hear your thoughts and ideas...

My latest work...just a peek

2008-05-28T19:34:00.003-04:00

Help, I am trapped in a Zoo!

2008-05-28T19:29:00.004-04:00

Well, sometimes it's more like a pet store depending on which animal alter ego we are. Today I have two kitty cats and a "mommy cat". The two kitty cats are trapped under laundry baskets and will not stop meowing...lol

Irony= this Mommy is highly allergic to cats, hmmmmm?

Earlier, and quite often actually, it feels like the running of the bulls in my house. For instance the phone rings...suddenly there is me and three little people around me running for the same phone. Someone's bound to get trampled :/

Swimming lessons start very soon so we shall be fishies next...

2008-05-13T21:13:00.002-04:00

Thoughts for today...

Thank God for Chick fil A indoor playgrounds:)

My kids are so cute, how'd I do that?

How can someone so cute be such a pistol?

Where is my usb cable so I can download these pictures???

How in the heck did my Verizon bill get to $700?

Little butts look so cute in underwear. Hopefully we will get over poop in the potty anxiety soon:)

I need to tell my blog friends to check out my makeup work...they can see what's been keeping me so busy. www.modelmayhem.com/thefaceofdc

Hope everyone is savoring the beautiful days of spring as much as I am!

Ahhhhh Spring

2008-05-07T09:38:00.002-04:00

Spring is here and I feel myself coming back to life. Time goes by so fast when your not blogging! I am wondering how many precious, humorous, or down right awful moments I have missed documenting and are now trapped somewhere in my memory reserves? I vow to get consistent with this blogging thing. It makes me feel better, and sometimes when I go back and read my own words it's like an out of body experience. It will be a fun treat for my kids to enjoy later.

I got a laptop and I quit my full time job at MAC to be a freelancer so I have no excuses. I am now doing makeup on the side for fashion shows, print & editorial work, and hopefully some weddings very soon. I also freelance for MAC and Smashbox when I feel like going in...so far that's not often. I am loving it. MAC was the perfect place to point me in the right direction. I never knew I had this natural talent and passion. I wish I could have discovered this 10 years ago, I might have won an Oscar by now...lol

The kids....well, that's just what they are. My babies are now kids with imaginations, oodles of questions, loads of personality, and voices...OMG Loud voices! My home is a noisy, messy, chaotic place. It is also more importantly a place of happiness, laughter, learning, and so much love. It feels nice to have a little freedom. Being able to let them wander to the basement and play by themselves, walking through target on foot and all staying together, it's the little things that make a big difference.

I have lots of pictures to download so those will be up soon. I can't wait to make the rounds and see how your little cuties have grown and catch up on your lives! Thank you all for your love and support after Courtney's death, your kind words are near and dear to my heart. Talk to ya soon!

Rest in Peace my dear friend...

2008-01-24T23:37:00.001-05:00

I am so shocked and devastated over the death of one of our close friends. Courtney was one of a kind, he was sure to light up a room and make you laugh.

It was just a few weeks ago that we caught up with each other and planned to get the family together and hang out. Unfortunately, I did not call soon enough. It is so hard for me to wrap my mind around this. How could it be? I had skimmed over the forwarded mail he sent me in my inbox several times not knowing that he would be gone from this earth the next day.

Death is one thing I am not prepared to handle. As a Christian, death should not be so hard to grasp. But I admit that I am extraordinarily attached to the physical.

I pray that the Lord gives Susan, his dear wife to be and their two beautiful children Blake and Raigen peace in their hearts. I pray for her strength to go on with two babies counting on her. I pray that their little minds are not to confused and that they have little angels assigned to them to give them extra peace and comfort.

Courtney was killed in the line of duty. He was a Maryland police officer and was a victim of a hit and run accident while laying cones to re-route traffic. The woman who hit him was later found and arrested on a previous charge of failure to appear in court for a DUI. They found empty alcohol containers in the back seat as well as alcohol on her breath. So tragic, so senseless.

It is such a painful reminder of how I take my own life for granted. How I take for granted that my loved ones will always be here.

I am paralyzed with sadness. Is it really too late for me to say goodbye? If I shout loud enough that I loved him and cherished his friendship will he hear me? Did he know? What can I do to give any little piece of him back to his young children that will never get to know him? At 2 and 4 how much will they remember? ughhh, I can't get over it. Truly my wish is to honor his legacy and celebrate his life, but forgive me for my emotional out pour. It is all just so fresh and shocking. I can only hope that Courtney is looking down and knows that he will forever be loved, that his friendship was cherished, and that he will not be forgotten. I will miss you dearly.

birthday pics...only about 14 days late;)

2008-01-24T23:27:00.000-05:00

Asjia is blury so I didn't post but more pics coming soon!

Happy Birthday to my precious angels...

2008-01-11T08:30:00.000-05:00

It is hard for me to believe that three years ago today was that special day I will never forget. The day that I had almost every conceivable emotion running through me. The day I was instantly changed in to a real woman. The day that will forever be my happiest and most memorable. The day that my life went from somewhat ordinary & peaceful to complete chaos...lol The day my three amazing babies were born!

Here are a few of my memories from that day...

I was on my third month of Hospital bedrest

I was wearing my Mom's pajamas that she had left when she visited. They were yellow with little cherries.

I was just about to eat breakfast

and the Doc came in to tell me it was my day. After the Resident had visited me earlier in the morning and my discomfort was obviously unbearable, they had made the big decision that it was time and that I was in the safe zone.

Fast forward a couple hours and Im in the O.R. looking around with such fear I could barely keep it together. The lights, the table, ughhhhhhhh. I actually contemplated running, although it would have been more like a brisk waddle. I wondered to myself how far a Woman resembling Shrek in a Hospital gown could get before they caught me. Really, I did. I remember the room filling up with people. I think the number got up to 20 something. I remeber a fantastic anathesiologist, and my petite 4'11" Doctor standing on a stool to get to my belly. Minutes later were the sweet cries of my babies, The look of awe on my Husbands face, and the most amazing moments of my life.

My sweet Kyle was first. I remeber his arms spread open and they were so long. Then Asjia, my baby girl with a dainty little cry. Then Mason, my little peanut. He had a full head of hear that looked like it had just been cut at the barbershop. He looked around and cried a few seconds later.

It was magical.

Here we are three years later. I have three amazing little people to show for it. Thank You Kyle, Asjia, an Mason for bringing so much happiness, love, and laughter in to my life. Thank You Lord for Blessing me so abundantly.

Happy Birthday, Mommy Love You!

lurking

2008-01-03T00:04:00.000-05:00

yep...Im turning into one. I keep finding myself lurking through pages and pages of blogs, old and new, and leaving without a comment. I am lazy, I am selfish, and I am going to blog hell I know. What is my problem? I am on overload, my brain has more to process than it knows what to do with. Hopefully I will find my old self soon. Until then, sending all my beloved blog friends love. Know that I truly do love you!

a must have...

2007-12-13T00:07:00.000-05:00

In searching for some good books on the true meaning of Christmas for the kids, I came across this book. It looks fascinating! Here is the review...

Take a magical journey around the world this Christmas with your children and family.

Forget about the woes of the world with this delightful Christmas story about a young girl overwhelmed with the hustle and bustle during Christmas time.

Collista loses faith in Christmas and writes a plea to Santa Claus for help. Santa replies by sending her a Guardian Angel named Brianna to help her re-discover the true meaning of Christmas.

Collista and Brianna embark on an adventure that takes them around the world for a magical journey that you won't forget.

Collista's Search for the True meaning of Christmas is a welcomed, inspirational family book that will delight children and adults alike and bring a joyful tear of hope to everyone's eye.

With today's mass media covering the tragedies of the world 24/7, more and more children are becoming disillusioned with humanity. Offer them hope and a look into the world of other children to see that we are all the same, especially at Christmas time.

Collista's Search for the True meaning of Christmas will teach you and your children how to say "Merry Christmas" and "Happy New Year" in 112 different languages. Included at the end of the book are 33 Holiday recipes from around the globe that both you and your children can share special family time to make together.

Love, Laughter, and Joy!

2007-12-12T23:27:00.001-05:00

Here is what the Holidays look like around our house...

the smooches are plentiful around here...and they are free too!
I can't believe this is my itty bitty Kyle looking like such a big boy...
and a smile that I just can't get enough of!
Mason was very thoughtful with his ornament placement. I suspect he will have OCD like his Mommy.
my little angel so excited to wear that stinkin dress!
clowns!
they are kinda cute aren't they?
ahhhhhhhhhh...................
and this one says it all!

better late than never?

2007-12-12T23:22:00.000-05:00

As I was going through my online albums and picking Holiday picks for Christmas cards, I realized I had never done anything with our Halloween pics...including posting them on my blog! So here's a little flashback;)

the importance of separation...

2007-12-11T11:14:00.000-05:00

Last week I had a touchbase with the kids teacher, Ms Christine. She is really a sweetheart. She said they were all doing fantastic, making huge progress, and right where they need to be age wise. The one observation that broke my heart was this...

She explained to me that they needed more one on one time with me. This is something that has been nagging me for a while, but this really hit home. She said that the lack of individual time alone with me instead of as a trio was causing insecurities within my children. She explained that there is no time to develop a close individual bond with each of them, and that has caused them to be insecure as individuals. She said that I may feel bonded with them because I am always with them and I give them tons of affection, but it wasn't the same as the bond would be if they had a chance to bond with me alone rather than all together. She explained that instead, they are bonding with eachother and that's where they get their security from. Thus, the reason they hate being separated. She told me that out of all the kids in the classroom, these guys were the furthest behind socially. They get scared when new kids join the classroom, have longer adjustment periods to new kids and teacher's, and are more relucant to try new things than the other kids. My heart droppped. Did I really cause my kids to be insecure? I am with them, loving on them, and teaching them every moment I can get my hands on. It makes sense though, they need me to know them in and out as individuals, not as a pack. They need to have their time, to have their own special moments with me or Chris, no interruptions. So, this is our new commitment. To allow each one of them to flourish and get as much alone time as we can find.

Today is Kyle's day. I can't explain to you the smile he had and the bounce in his walk as we left the school together holding hands. We went to the park, had lots of conversations, read a couple of books that he picked out, we will go to lunch together, take a nap together, and go get "ma brudu & ma chista" from school a little later. I will rotate each week, and my day off that week will be all theirs! For a Mom of triplets, having one tagging along with you is like nothing, it's actually very refreshing to get to focus on just one of them.

more Blessings!

2007-12-11T10:41:00.001-05:00

No, Im not pregnant. Not that type of Blessing.

As you know, I have been struggling with my decision to work or to stay home. To be quite honest, working at M.A.C has been wonderful in many ways, and on the other hand it has turned our already chaotic lives into complete mayhem! After being denied for the kids school scholarship(a whole different story) I made up my mind that I would give my notice at work and return to life as we were before I had this bright idea. That was yesterday. Despite my inability to keep up with household duties, despite the fact that I miss my kids and my hubby, I still felt sadness going in yesterday to deliver the news that I would be resigning at the end of December.

I was absolutely shocked when my boss made a way for me. She is allowing me to work 7-4 shifts, which will allow me to pick the kids up from school and be home cooking dinner by 5pm! She is also giving me Sundays off as promised in the beginning, and I only have to close one Saturday per month! I am so excited, I think this is going to solve everything! Yayyyyyyyyy!

funny stuff

2007-12-11T10:21:00.000-05:00

My Husband Chris is a Contractor.

Isn't it funny that last week when he arrived at the kids school to pick them up the teacher nformed him that Mason has been walking around for the last week with a pencil behind his ear? Apparently he is very cool about it. Sometimes he even has one behind each ear. He takes them out to draw, then puts them back...

Too stinkin cute. It's amazing what kids pick up on.

As Promised...

2007-12-04T10:12:00.000-05:00

I had hoped to take a better picture than this one, but just can't find the time. So here goes....

This is my new hair!

should I be worried?

2007-12-04T09:58:00.000-05:00

One of my little guys insists upon the pink cup when I pass out sippies, fights for baby dolls, and snuck on a pair of Asjia's pink princess underwear before school the other day. Chris went to pick them up and he still had them on, one leg only and pulled up to his waist, but he refused to take them off. Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmm?

Is it winter time already?

2007-12-04T09:50:00.000-05:00

I guess I have been in denial. I will have to surrender my capris and my flip flops darn it! This morning, after weeks of beautifully vibrant colored leafy trees, I walked out to find bare naked ones. There were crazy winds all day yesterday and last night that stripped them of their beauty. On the way to school there was an eary calm, and out of no where...snowflakes.

We have plans to get our Christmas tree on Thursday, and In the back of my head I am trying to predict what level that disaster will be. I cant wait to share the excitement of the holidays with the kiddies, but will the poor little tree survive the abuse?

I told them I was going to take them to see Santa and all of them said No! Asjia kept repeating, "I'm scared Mommy". I told them Santa likes you, he's nice, he brings you surprises if your a good girl or boy...they went for it;)

So watch out mall Santas, one of you will see us coming very soon!

Why didn't I know about this?

2007-11-16T00:04:00.000-05:00

I just discovered the best thing a Mommy of three pre-school age kiddos could discover. The teacher supply store! OMG OMG OMG. Where have I been? I got so excited in there I could barely stand myself. For a second I felt guilty that I had cheated my kids out of these great things for the past couple of years, but then I realized that it is not until now that they have been ready for it. So, if you have never been, RUN don't walk to the nearest one! We have Lakeshore Learning Center here and it's awesome! I decided that if I stay home I will turn the basement in to a full blown "pre-school" and I will have a structured learning schedule for them a few days a week. Fun Fun Fun:)

One of my favorite things is this walking rope. I was so amazed that they were able to train my kids to walk and hold on to this rope at school. I was very paranoid with them going on walks without me at first. The school id downtown and the playground is a public one two blocks away so they walk there. The first few days I stuck around so I could chaperon. The teacher looked at me like an alien when I drilled them about any stray kids who had been hit by cars or lost on the daily journey. They assured me no child had ever gotten off of the rope outside, and I half heartily believed them. So, I tested the idea a few days later. I always have my kids on lock down when we are taking a trip to the mall or the park, so that day I decided to try the rope theory. I cut a long piece of curling ribbon from my gift wrap box and called it "the rope". I could not believe my eyes as my kids walked a total of six blocks to and from our neighborhood park without letting go even once. I was sold! So here it is Ladies and Gents...

Love it, Love it, Love it!
And it could be yours for the low low price of $19.95 Yahooooooo

*oh yes, pics of the hair coming soon!

A Tattoo or a Pottery Barn Backpack?

2007-11-15T23:54:00.000-05:00

No seriously.

I have always admired the beauty of tattoos, but could never really commit to the permanence of them. But, I cannot get my mind off of a small design that incorporates KAM on the back of my neck just below my hairline. I feel like that is the one thing I know will always be sacred to me and therefore, I can justify the permanent part. Also, it would be in one of those places that I would actually have to deliberately try and show it off when I was ready to or else no one would ever know it was there.

Or, I can just get this adorable backpack/diaper bag from Pottery Barn Kids with KAM monogrammed on it...lol What would you do? I have to laugh at myself....Im crazy I know. But Im impulsive, and what sounds like a bright idea in this moment could turn out being a disaster next week(like my haircut).

Help a Momma out...........

warning NUDITY warning

2007-11-13T10:38:00.000-05:00

Wonder if this changes my blog rating from "G" to "PG"? Here are some pictures of M.A.C's Halloween body painting expo that was done by all the stores in my region. It was a room filled with creative energy, excitement, and ummmm nipples. Don't peek if you are easily offended ;)

This girl was a toad like monster. I was up in the loft so it was tricky getting pictures.
This was the "carnival" girl
She was the winner. A japanese inspired fairy with astonishing beauty who would suck the life out of her naive victims. The artistry was beautiful up close.

The winning team celebrating...

little snippets of my cuties

2007-11-13T10:15:00.000-05:00

One amazing thing that has come as a result of going to school...they are so much more open to other people, places, and things. I was shocked when I got them to feed the goats out of their hands. Just a couple of months ago they were running from puppies!

Kai finally got his wish of "drive tractoh" What a little cutie he is. We actually couldn't get him down once he went up. He held up the line and we had to go dig him out of the driver's seat.

Asjia & Mason trying reeeaaaly hard to pick up that pumpkin.

Watching the pony eat after taking him on a ride. They held on for dear life so my pictures of that were blury. It was adorable though, they were so proud of themselves♥

has it reeeaaaly been that long???

2007-11-13T09:56:00.000-05:00

It's amazing how time passes us by. I really need a laptop so I can blog in traffic...lol How are all of my beloved blogging Mamas? I have felt utterly disconnected from blog land for the past few weeks. My computer was very ill & I couldn't even check up on your pages:( I will surely be making the rounds!

Where can I start?

Yesterday was one of those precious days that I desperately needed. The ones where its rainy and cold and all you want to do is roll from your warm bed to your sofa and snuggle up with your bambinos all day. We watched Cat in the Hat twice, ate homemade chicken noodle soup and played "wing awound the wosy" more times than I could keep track of. I didn't brush my teeth or get out of my pj's until 9pm when it was time to run to Target:) Didn't clean a single thing either, IT WAS FABULOUS!

As Tori told you guys, I am still working. I can't really make a move just yet because the school is still reviewing the scholarship info. Unfortunately, you need at least an associates degree in early childhood education to be an assistant there, so that was not an option afterall. But honestly, both Chris and I have gone back and forth a hundred times over and still can't decide what is best for the whole family. The kids LOVE to "go skoooo" so I feel bad taking them out to be cooped up with me all day again. And Lord knows that we cannot fork out nearly $700 a week to have them there while I lay around the house looking ~~like a hot mess~~ pretty. I know the answer will come in due time.

In the meantime...We had a great Halloween. We visited the pumkin patch and went trick or treating with the 3lb crew. M.A.C has been a lot of fun. Lots of hours, but lots of fun too. My Best Friend April came for a short visit:) and speaking of short.....I cut all my hair off. This is the first time in my life that I have had short hair! It's taking a bit of getting used to but everyone seems to approve. I am super excited that I have three days off Thanksgiving week and actually get to stay home and cook! And, I am super duper excited that my whole fam will be here the week before Christmas to visit. They bring loads of love, laughter, and entertainment with them:)

Hope all of you are in good health and good spirit, I have missed you dearly. Talk to you very soon!

the verdict is in

2007-10-12T09:56:00.000-04:00

I can't do it....

My biggest reservation about walking away from this experience is that I will have let so many people down. However, letting my kids down would be something that I could never live with. I didn't get home until 10:45 last night and everyone was fast asleep. The most I could give them were kisses on their precious sleeping faces and whisper in their ear how much I loved them and hope that they heard it. This morning Mason was crying my name from the moment he woke up. He fought me to put on his school clothes and tried to peel them off all morning. Asjia kept saying "don't go Mommy, Mommy don't go". I know school is not the problem, once we pulled up they ran off and left me in the dust. The problem is that they miss me. So that does it, my kids are suffering and that was never my intention of pusuing this opportunity. I am going to Thank God for blessing me with the ability to make this choice and not be forced in to anything, and Thank everyone in my life for their support, and part ways with the jobby job. A part of me mourns "what could be" with M.A.C but the decision is quite easy actually. I think I may stay on as a freelance artist so I can come and go as I please. Maybe a weekend here or there to get out of the house and keep the creative juices flowing. I have to find a way to keep the kids in school at least part-time because they really love it and it's helping them to blossom so beautifully. Thankfully the great people at their school are willing to help me. Either through scholarship or a part time job at the school to cover the cost. They are WONDERFUL. To those of you with a carreer and kids...I so admire your strength. I admire your time management skills and empathize with you on your sacrifice. For those of you who are home in the trenches...you know I love and respect you to the fullest for what you are doing, we all know the trials and tribulations of that job. So there it is good people. Now I can stop worrying you with my broken hearted posts;)

Thank You

2007-10-11T11:01:00.000-04:00

Just a quick post to say I LOVE YOU GUYS. Your comments are always so touching. Thank You.

I had a rough morning. When I dropped the kids off the principal asked me how my job was going and if I would be attending the holiday dinner they were throwing this evening. Seconds later, I was in tears. I hate hate hate crying in front of people by the way. Her and the program director asked what was going on and I layed all of my inner battles out on the table. The wonderful benefits of this amazing school vs. the tuition that keeps me away from my family. The struggle over staying home and working. The need for balance. The whole nine yards.

So it was so nice to come home puffy faced to read all of your feedback. I really cherish all of you!

Stop and smell the roses babies

2007-10-11T01:39:00.001-04:00

Today on my way home, I passed the hospital where I spent three crucial months on bedrest and brought my three little Angels in to this world. I had this urge to pull in there and run to my room. When I stop and think about it and take myself back in time, I realize all over again how amazing my life is and just how beautiful this journey has been.

I am asked all the time about the kids during those first few months. How did you do it? Were they premature? Did you have help?? And for a quick second I think about it and answer the question. Today as I sat gazing at the hospital, I really had the chance to remember that time. I could see all three of their precious little faces the day they were born. I remembered the feeling of awe I had. The fear I had of mishandling them, the panic I felt as baby's A, b, and C were wheeled in to my recovery room. The countless amounts of prayers that got us through. The sound of the cries, the sweet smell, everything. Aren't we so Blessed to be Mothers? It hit me again today as it often does, that I am divinely favored. God Loves me and has Blessed me abundantly...he helped me get one thing completely right in this lifetime. Nothing else matters♥

Thoughts of a former SAHM

2007-10-11T00:33:00.000-04:00

Let me first start by saying...it felt really good to sign in to Blogger:)

Well, I really take my hat off to all of the working Mommie's of the world. And, I take my whole outfit off to all the SAHM's out there. I feel like I am stuck in purgatory. I have so many mixed feelings and emotions, and what I have decided is that either road is a sacrifice. In fact, sacrifice becomes our middle names the moment we give birth.

So here's a little peek in to my personal thoughts of the week...

I'm feeling more comfy with my decision. The kids have come so far in just a few short weeks. It's a really good thing for all of us. I am amazed at Chris, he has shocked me with his ability to be Super Daddy! And, he has admitted that my job(sahm) was way harder than his. I love this job. It's refreshing to feel a sense of accomplishment when you are busting your butt. And, it's an even better feeling to get a nice big paycheck at the end of the week. This is a lot different than the thankless job of being a SAHM. It's great to get loads of free makeup and ridiculous discounts on Marc Jacobs bags and Betsey Johnson jewelry. What a life! I have actually enjoyed several cups of piping hot coffee without the worry of spilling it on a little monkey trying to get a sip. I am surprised that this is me in the mirror. My face looks great, my clothes are sharp, and I am actually feeling rather cute. Can someone please pinch me, are these eye shadows really five bucks after my discount? There is so much room for growth, and what a fabulous place to grow with.

~and then on the other hand(still thinking)...

Does all that shit even matter? Is my day off over already? That didn't really feel like enough "mommy and me" time. Who will have separation anxiety this morning? Are they being treated well while my watchful eyes are trusting someone else with them? How in the world will I ever be able to get this house cleaned up, or ever cook a nice dinner for my family again? I haven't seen a grocery store in weeks. Forget the grocery store, I haven't seen my Husband or my Kids in weeks. Sex? HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA. This is a for sure way to guarantee that we are done having kids! How many hours a day am I actually spending with my family? On some days, it's how many minutes. What happens on Christmas Eve when I am at work all dolled up and wishing for nothing more than to be home in my pj's with my kids? What about when summer roles back around and my weekends with them are non existent? And how about my poor sweet Christian? My stepdaughter who is already robbed of so much family time, now her small dose of normalcy has been cut in to as well. I miss blogging, I miss play dates, I miss the friggin Disney channel in the backround. What the hell am I doing?

decisions ~ decisions ~ decisions

I think it's inevitable. If you stay home you are always wondering what's going on in the real world. You sometimes miss the Woman you once were and sometimes wonder where she went. You sometimes feel guilty or perhaps less worthy for not making a monetary contribution to your household. You go stir crazy with the same mundane tasks every day, and loose motivation when it comes to keeping up with the heaps of laundry and dishes. You wish your Husband could have a raw, uncut taste of what you do day in and day out. And if you are a working Mom, you wonder if you are making the right decision. You question whether or not you are making a selfish decision. You are doing a constant balancing act that is nearly impossible. You sacrifice a lot of time away from your home. Yadda Yadda Yadda.

I was doing great until I got the news that I was going to have to work Sundays after all. That was a major incentive for taking this job. One guaranteed family day a week. Not to mention that I am short staffed and will most likely be working 6 day weeks and 12 hour shifts as the holidays get closer. I have a lot of thinking to do. Ultimately, I will do what's best for my family, no question. I am praying that there is an answer that will satisfy all of our needs. I will keep you posted!

hindsight is funny/funny

2007-09-27T23:09:00.000-04:00

I had completely forgotten that I had these pictures from last week of the kids terrorizing me at Cheesecake Factory. We went out with my in-laws(about15 of us). The kids have NEVER acted out like they did that night, they pulled out all the stops! Asjia even said "oh shit" when she dropped her spoon on the floor. I had never heard nor expected to hear that word out of her sweet mouth. It would just figure that the table across from us was adoring them at just that moment. Having kids can be much like holding up a mirror to yourself at times. I have been working on my mouth, but obviously I need to clean it up real quick! I finally had enough embarrassment about an hour in to the evening, so I scooped up the boys and booked it out of there. We had a delightful time in the suburban and I finished my dinner at home in peace.

Here is me peeling the boys off the booth...so much for my idea of letting them try to do without highchairs!

silly little monkeys! Ok, this really is not funny, although his smile is adorable....
so we partied in the truck;)

This little man was the ring leader... Oh do I have stories for later on in life!

boy have I missed you guys!

2007-09-27T22:21:00.000-04:00

Does anyone still check on me or have you guys given up on me completely?

Well, I swore I would be in bed by now but I can't put off posting for one more day. Oh my gosh, where do I start? I have sooooooooooooooooooo much to say. I have thought about all of you during the past two weeks. Wondered what funny things Loren was saying, how the Quilao cuties were doing, wondered how Angie's circus and Tammy's hellions were. Wondered how the Steece quads were growing and enjoying their new home and what insightful and touching things Lots of Scotts was posting just to name a few. So much has fallen by the waist side in the past two weeks, it's crazy. I never did come back to post on my first day at M.A.C and I know you guys were dying to hear the details, so here goes...

The past week has really changed my life. It has thoroughly changed my perspective. And, it has given me so many things to consider and digest. M.A.C is quite an amazing company with perks that would make you all really jealous. But truth be told, there was not any amount of free lipstick or eyeshadow that could have stopped the tears, mended the heartbreak, or relieved the sadness I felt from missing my kids last week. The first few days I cried every time I thought about them. Dropping them off at school was torturous. They screamed and held on to me for dear life. I felt like I was abandoning them. I would leave the school in tears and then want to kick myself for ruining my makeup on the way to work...lol serious basket case. I started last Wednesday, by Friday I told Chris I couldn't do it. I had decided that it was all a selfish fantasy and I needed to get my butt back home with my kids where I belonged. He was really disappointed that I was giving up so quickly, and quite frankly is probably the only reason I got a grip on my emotions and decided to give it some time. The weekend was better, I spent all day Sunday with them and was amazed at the new things they had learned in just 3 days at preschool.

This week things have settled down a bit. The kids are really warming up at school and enjoying it. They have learned their whole names, days of the week, months of the year, numbers 1-20, etc. etc. They love their teacher. Mason is still having some separation anxiety in the morning, but they say he calms down within about 20 minutes or so after I leave. Potty training? We are making progress, but still not consistent. I doubt the 2 week promise will stand, but we are on the right track:) Work is really fun and I'm glad I didn't turn around and run last weekend. I really considered it. The artists at my counter are awesome and I think it will be a really amazing experience. I need to find a way to balance it all out and find a new routine for keeping our household under control. Currently, I have no clean silverware or panties...lol

I promise to keep you posted, my brain needed time to process this past week. I hope you all are well, I am off to read your blogs!

Finally feeling at peace...

2007-09-18T19:46:00.000-04:00

The past couple of weeks have taken a surprising toll on my mind. As much as I had going on in my brain, I could not force it out of my mouth. I have been battling feelings of nervousness, excitement, guilt, worry, and on and on. I started second guessing my decision about returning to work and it was really stressing me out. I think the whole anticipation of the kids starting school was weighing heavily on my mind. I was dreading the tears and the anguish that I saw a couple weeks back during our trial run. I think I have finally gotten over it and realized that this is something we all need.

Today was our official 1st day of school at the new place and I couldn't love it more. I was surprised that the kids were calm walking in this morning. As we entered the classroom, I felt much like a big tree trunk with three koala bears attached to my limbs. They wouldn't budge. I sat, they piled on top of me. Their teacher is wonderful. I stayed for a couple of hours and was really impressed. When the kids went out to play they seemed most comfortable, so I decided to make my escape. I gave the boys a kiss and told them I would be back in a little while. Asjia overheard me and ran to me screaming. I kissed her all up and gave her a big squeeze, then started making my way toward the gate. I could hear her fussing as I walked down the block, my poor little Angel. I checked back at nap and they were asleep, good sign. When I returned they were happy to see me but it took a minute. Overall, they did great and I feel so much better about leaving them.

The school is awesome. It is a "pre-school academy". They wear uniforms and pull-ups, how funny is that? They have to be in by 9am or have a Dr.'s note. The teacher also promised to help me have them potty trained within two weeks! Mason went pee pee for the very first time in the potty today! Guess seeing all the kids brought out the competitive spirit. Then when we got home Kai took a giant man poop in the toilet. We all clapped and cheered and took turns wow'ing over it before he made his first big boy flush. We had dinner, took a bath, jumped on the bed, read a story and lights out at 7:15. I am amazed. Can this really be happening? Structure in my home? Tomorrow is my first day of work, we will see how the day goes with that layered in. Wish me luck!

Cat has my tongue?

2007-09-14T01:29:00.000-04:00

I'm not sure if I have nothing to write about or if my brain just can't seem to pick one of the million things going on up there... I'm still keeping up with your blogs though:)Be back soon!

Tag I'm it! And read on, you could be next!

2007-09-08T03:00:00.000-04:00

How fun is this? One of my favorite Bloggers, Angie, in honor of her 150th post started this game of tag. I got tagged and have come up with 8 random facts about me. You could be next, look for your name at the end of the post!

One.
In 1st grade we were asked to draw a picture of our best memory with our family. Living in Southern California, going to Las Vegas was a quick & fun trip. Back in the early 80's however, it was not so much the family friendly hot spot it has become today. Circus Circus was the place to be. Anyhoo, my teacher was a little concerned when I finished my drawing and it was of a slot machine with 777 across it. My poor Mom was mortified, but we still die laughing about it to this day.

Two.
Since the first fact was sort of revealing about the goings on in my mind(slightly different than most) this next one shouldn't scare you. One of my most favorite past times as an adult is driving through downtown DC after dinner or a night out and looking at all of the hookers. Can you believe that I'm admitting this to you? I can't get over it, the whole dynamic continues to intrigue me over and over again. Now that I think about it, I wonder if this has any tie to what I saw as a child cruising the streets of Las Vegas? I should mention thatI get super excited when the pimps are out supervising.

Three.
My nick name growing up was Missy Pissy. I was given the name because I would laugh until I was on the floor wetting myself. My little sister still does this at 21, glad I grew out of it. Just don't hold me down and tickle me.

Four.
I still have a Great Grandpa. He is in his 90's, still volunteers, vacations abroad, and golfs a few times a week. He's basically amazing. He's absolutely adorable, his skin is beautiful and he is probably healthier than most of his offspring. He is the Great Great Grandfather of my children!

Five.
I lived in Arizona for 14 years and never saw the Grand Canyon. I went to High School & College there and lived in Flagstaff, Tucson, and Phoenix without ever seeing it.

Six.
Earlier this year I read the book "What would Jesus eat", and was forever changed. I now try and stick with organic and naturally raised foods for myself and my family. I can't eat pork or shrimp without gagging. Sometimes the Outback ribs still make me try to forget what I know.

Seven.
I once went out on two dates in one night. Just a year or so before I met my Husband actually. I came home from the first, changed my outfit, and went out to a second dinner. Needless to say I ate very lightly during round two. Carma got me back not long after.

Eight.
When my Husband and I were living across the country from one another, early in our relationship, we proved that great minds think alike. During a middle of the night grocery trip with my roommate I wandered off down the isles of the grocery store. Since our anniversary was coming up I started browsing the card section. I found a really beautifully written card that expressed my feelings perfectly. The only thing was that it wasn't very pretty so I decided to change the envelope in an effort to make it look nicer. Chris called me a few days after I sent it out and told me something weird had happened to him but that I would soon see for myself, he could not reveal what exactly it was. The next day I went to my mailbox to find that he had picked out the very same card AND changed the envelope to the very same color as I had! What are the chances? I was in Arizona, he was in Washington, DC. Crazy!

Ok, there you have it! Now, TAG YOUR IT, and I have quite a few...Angie B, Sweetened Taters, Undomestic Goddess, Erickson 5, Four Silly Sisters, 3 Peas in a Pod, and Four Times the Fun

Food for thought...

2007-09-06T00:43:00.001-04:00

It was really emotional for me to watch the Hurricane Katrina coverage that has been on marking the 2nd Anniversary. As I watched the footage and listened to story after story It really hit home that this sort of catastrophe could happen to any of us at any given moment. We have are guard down, or at least I believe mine is down. These people had no idea that their entire lives would be turned upside down, and for most of them life would never be the same again. A disaster could affect any of us. I think we are just so used to hearing about trauma on the news and never really stop to imagine it at our own doorstep. Which leads my busy brain to stir up all kinds of questions for myself...

What would I do? Say my home was destroyed and the insurance company was exhausted and looking for every way out of covering the damage. Say my family was living in a shelter, at the mercy of perfect strangers to help us rebuild our lives. I feel like I have things under control in my life, but what happens when things spin out of my control?

This evening I was chatting with my Dad and he asked me about an emergency plan. Hmmmmm? Well, I would load everyone up and drive to safety right? What happens if we are all trapped in the house for an extended period of time with no power? What if, God forbid, there is a terrorist attack on our own soil and driving to safety is not an option?

• How do I plan survive and keep my family safe?
• Do I know where to find a flashlight?
• Candles, lighter, matches?
• Would I be able to track down all of the items for the kids in the pitch dark?
-diapers, wipes, medicine, sippy cups, blankets, etc.
• Would I have clean water for them to drink in case of a shortage?
• Food, milk, etc?
• Important documents in one safe place, cash, important phone numbers?
• How about some way to entertain the kids and keep them calm?
The answer to some of these questions is No, scary as it is. We rarely stop to think of these things, so call me paranoid, but I am bumping it to the top of my list of priorities. Things have changed a whole lot from the days of me worrying about just me, I need a plan! Do you guys think about these things? Do you have a plan of action? Why in the world I am spinning my wheels about this I have no idea, maybe I need a good book;)

Happy News! Happy News!

2007-09-06T00:39:00.000-04:00

Just got a surprise & I am so excited! One of my Best Friends is coming in for my Birthday! Can't wait to see her and ring in my big 30....yep gettin up there. Then my other Best Friend is coming in for business on Oct 29th for 2 whole weeks, Yay!!! I am feeling very spoiled right now, I miss my girls♥

more on our 1st day of school...

2007-09-01T16:35:00.001-04:00

Yesterday when I got back to the kids school, I found them all parked in little tykes cars on the playground just staring at the parking lot. Tears. For me that is, they had finally calmed down. Asjia spotted me first and smiled, then a look of disbelief, then she put her head down and ignored me. The boys both smiled and started showing me the cars. I walked over to Asjia and knelt down, she looked at me and with some hesitation muttered, "I like you neck-a-lace". How sweet is she? She gives her Mama a compliment after I abandoned her. She stood up and let me smother her with hugs and kisses. The smell of your kids is so sweet when you have missed it if only for a few short hours. I am lucky that they are still young enough to be ok with a little PDA, I would have really felt awful if I wasn't able to hug and kiss all over them. After so much resistance, the boys actually didn't want to leave. It wasn't until I started to leave without them that they ran after me. We climbed in to the truck and I asked if they had fun at school, "yeah, fun at school", was the response. Do you want to come back to school tomorrow? "No, go home see Daya" ok got it, it was fun but not fun enough to go back...lol Well, they actually will not be going back to that particular school. I was not at all impressed with the staff and their teacher in particular. I didn't like her tone with the children and her ghetto slang was unacceptable in my book. I don't speak to my children that way and neither will anyone else. The last thing I would want is for them to learn that it is appropriate to communicate in such a way. So, they will be home with me for the next two weeks until I start work and the original school that I had them enrolled in is finished being built. It is due to open on Sept 17th and I will start work on the 18th, perfect timing! The school is a beautiful new facility, I have met much of the staff and they are all very professional, and my kids will get to start new with all of the other kids. So that was our test run with pre-school, I am going to be grooming them for the next two weeks for round two...

I had to laugh at this one

2007-09-01T13:45:00.000-04:00

Oh Kyle. You are such a determined little man. Mommy is proud that you have such a strong mind and will. However, you are giving me lots of grey hair and I am going to document your every move for blackmail purposes later on down the road. Yesterday at Target he refused to sit down in the basket, after warning him three times I pinched his leg and sat him down. He got an ugly look on his face and yelled, "don't hit Kyle!" OMG, is this my sweet little boy Kyle? Today he figured he would catch me off guard. I had snatched the Desitin from him earlier and put it up high(so I thought). I answered the phone and was having a short conversation when I smelled Desitin, I peeked down and on the floor next to me and there he was. Guess his arms are even longer than I thought!

The day Mommy gets her heartbroken, oh bittersweetness...

2007-08-31T10:52:00.000-04:00

Of course the first place I run is to my computer to blog about it. I know you guys understand, that's why.

This morning was the "fiwst day go skoo", yes, first day of school. Last night the kids were jumping around like wild animals with excitement over "going skooo morrow" so naturally I thought it was going to go off without a hitch. This morning they were so excited, helping me get all six shoes and socks gathered up. We pulled out our new doggie "packpacks" and headed for the door, only running an hour behind schedule...not bad right? Luckily today is only our first test run. The excitement carried through our 5 minute trip through the neighborhood and I explained that they were going to play, and read, and sing, and dance, and eat nummies, and make friends, yadda yadda yadda. They all jumped out and ran up to the building and even walked calmly with Mommy to the classroom. Once we hung up our backpacks that I had to pry off of them, the panic button went off. Mason first, then the others. The teacher invited them to circle time and they looked at her like she was crazy. Mommy was asked to scoot out quickly, so I did. Three minutes later, my children could be heard well over a few blocks away I am sure. Wailing, all three of them. "MAMA". My first instinct flew me back around and started towards the classroom, "Mrs. J don't do it...it's going to be ok". Ok, no problem, go ahead and tear my heart out no biggie. They assured me this was normal and that they would eventually all calm down. I hung around in tears for the next 30 minutes just listening. Asjia never really stopped, the boys decided it wasn't so bad and just backed into a corner together to observe. My sister in law happens to be the director of the school, so that makes me feel a tad bit better. She promised me she would make her presence known to them throughout the day and remind them that Mommy would be back soon. I drove home very reluctantly, walked through the door in to a quiet house, and broke down like a big baby. What have I done? I can't even do my dishes in peace and quiet thinking that my baby's are being traumatized. Oh, this is painful, lemme tell ya. Hopefully all the teachers are right, hopefully I will go back for them and they will be all perked up and having a ball. Every parent I have talked to say it's the best thing they could have done for their children, lets hope they were right! I will keep you posted.

updated

2007-08-30T08:52:00.001-04:00

I got it! YaY! I got it! YaY! I got it! YaY!

She just called me a couple hours after I wrote this post. I am sooooo excited! I got the management position and all the goodies I wanted! Beautiful! Thank You God! Thank You! Yes♥Yes♥Yes(squealing)!!!

~~Third M.A.C interview went awesome yesterday, should here back on the final decision by Friday...stomach will be in knots until then, but I should mention that the knots are positive knots;)~~

Just Wondering?

2007-08-30T08:39:00.000-04:00

If your kids are between 2 and 4 are you feeling:

Exhausted, loopy, unmotivated, overwhelmed, or outnumbered?

Do your ears hurt from screaming, fighting, and just plain noise?

Do your eyes hurt from looking at the messes, the mounds of laundry, and the dismantled furnishings around your home?

Just wondering where I stand in the ranks of Mommy's with multiples during the terrible two's?

I need to get over it, I know

2007-08-30T08:29:00.000-04:00

I can't help but think of Austin and what his Mom Michelle has been through when I stop worrying for a moment about Asjia's upcoming surgery. It's minor, very minor. And I have been Blessed with three of the healthiest kids around. I have known she was going to need to have this cyst removed from above her eye for quite some time now. The Doc advised I have it taken out a year and a half ago but I wasn't ready. I am a big chicken, fear full of anything having to do with a hospital. Yesterday when he was explaining the risks of the surgery to me, I just couldn't help but question why that sounds better than just leaving the little cyst there. Is it really that critical? Then I think of the millions of successful surgeries that are saving lives as I write this, then I think of families like Austin's who's only hope in getting well is surgery. Even though it's scary to me, I feel guilty for worrying about trivial little problems that some people would gladly trade me for their enormous ones. I just wanted to express my feelings of compassion for all of you who have or are experiencing this scary and painful position. My heart and my prayers go out to you.

Last days of summer

2007-08-28T15:52:00.000-04:00

Here are a few pics of our day at Hershey Park. We drove up with Angie, Ray, Lindsey, Leena, and Lorelei. Even though it was hot and sticky, it was still a good time. We got in a few hours before the kids got tired and kranky. The Zoo was a big hit. Asjia loved the Cwoc-a-diuhhhl. You can check out Angie's page for more pics, she is way better at taking them than me!

The Dad's stopping for a breather. They had their work cut out for them, pulling their way through crowds in the sizzling heat.

My three silly kids were more interested in the big poop on the ground than the endangered white owl.

Caught this one of Miss Asjia looking like such a big girl. Where have my babies gone?

And they just couldn't handle another moment. Two down, one to go. Who says you can't nap in the Choo Choo wagon?

Making memories one by one.........

six really cute kiddos

our big caravan

10 things that having children has taught me

2007-08-27T23:23:00.000-04:00

♥ That my heart can never run out of Love

♥ That I work best under pressure

♥ That a child's Love is more valuable than anything money can buy

♥ That a Suburban really is not that big of a vehicle after all

♥ And $150 a week in groceries is nothing

♥ That patience is virtue

♥ That you can laugh at almost everything that you can cry about

♥ That we as humans have such a profound influence on each other

♥ To understand my own Mother so much better

♥ That I am so Blessed

technical difficulties...

2007-08-27T23:06:00.000-04:00

Apologies. My computer got a virus and I have been trying to get it all cleaned up for the past couple of days. We had a really fun weekend, I will post pictures soon. Update on M.A.C - the regional called me today to let me know that they are interested and are waiting for her boss to schedule my third and final interview which will be a phone interview:) So Excited!!! Keep fingers crossed and prayers flowing! Anyway, here are the last two of the 100th post, sorry to drag it out!

10 Confessions of your average Triplet Mommy

• I yell way too much.

• I feel uneasy when my kids don't match.

• I sometimes wish I had my very own apartment across the street that I could keep clean & decorated, where I could run and hide for moments of peace and quiet.

• If people just "drop by" and my house is a mess, I pretend I'm not home.

• Having children has really made me a better person.

• They don't always get a bath every day.

• Neither do I.

• I dose off during cartoon time in the morning.

• If my Husband said "let's have more" I would probably wouldn't be able to resist.

10 reasons I adore my husband

2007-08-24T16:29:00.003-04:00

♥ He makes me laugh EVERY DAY.

♥ He's a lot like my own Father who I highly respect and admire.

♥ He's very sexy.

♥ He's ambitious & never stops thinking, and he is the hardest working man I know.

♥ He's loyal, thoughtful, and generous.

♥ He's a God fearing Man.

♥ He's a wonderful Father.

♥ He understands me.

♥ He Loves my family like they were his own.

♥ He can dance.

and there are a few more things i really like about him too.......

My 10 Biggest Fears

2007-08-24T16:12:00.000-04:00

• God. Not the type of fear you might imagine. More of a fear of disappointment or shortcoming. I am constantly trying to put my thoughts, feelings, and actions into perspective and live more through his eyes.

• Death. No matter how secure I feel in my relationship with God, I am not comfortable with death. I am very attached to the "physical". I want to be right here in the flesh with my children...forever!

• Loosing a Loved one. Any of them.

• Illness. This should be my biggest fear being that I neglect my health. It is pretty close to last on my list of priorities, I need to get that in check!

• Failing as a parent.
Knowing that these three will most likely be my only three, it is scary to think that if I make a mistake in parenting, they will all feel the pain. Most parents get to improve with every child. I try and not let the chaos and stress in our lives take away from this wonderful and unique experience that we have been given.

• Balloons Popping. HATE IT.

• Bee's, Wasp's, or anything else that fly's and stings. I can run really fast when it comes to getting away from a bee.

• The filter at the bottom of the pool.

• Roller Coasters.

• Swimming in the dark.

10 favorites

2007-08-24T01:05:00.000-04:00

♥ movie: The Color Purple

♥ song: Whiter Shade of Pale by: Procol Harum

♥ designer: Chloe

♥ treat: toss up between Starbucks & Cinnabon

♥ memory: seeing my babies for the first time

♥ book: To Kill a Mockingbird

♥ smell: my kids

♥ sound: the rain, or my children's giggles

♥ actor: Christopher Walken

♥ color: brown

10 things all about me

2007-08-24T00:39:00.000-04:00

♥ I am a God fearing Woman.

♥ I am staring 30 dead in the eye.

♥ I am a homebody.

♥ I never believed I would get to be a Mommy, but always wished to.

♥ I Love to eat.

♥ I am a girly girl...to the MAX

♥ I call my Mom at least once a day, she is my Hero.

♥ I met my darling Husband online.

♥ I secretley fantasize about living on the beach in jamaica and running a jet ski business.

♥ I am half Caucasian, half Mexican, my husband is a British Jamaican, and My kids are all mixed up.

10 things I want my kids to know.

2007-08-24T00:14:00.000-04:00

♥ That you are my greatest Love, and my Love will forever be unconditional. There is absolutely nothing more important to me.

♥ God. Without him, there is no us.

♥ That you are individuals, and that each of your dreams and ambitions are equally as important to me.

♥ That you can achieve anything you put your heart and soul in to.

♥ That life is short, and never to be taken for granted.

♥ That it is important to learn from your mistakes.

♥ That laughter is medicine.

♥ That you have the power to make a difference. Be it on one or many, every little bit counts.

♥ That Daddy and I will always be here for you.

♥ That no matter what, you must always stick together and Love one another.

10 things I love about my children

2007-08-22T23:50:00.000-04:00

♥ I Love their sleepy faces when they just wake up in the morning or from a nap.

♥ I Love their smell.

♥ I Love to hear them giving each other directions.

♥ I Love to hear them giggle.

♥ I Love their ability to give endless amounts of hugs and kisses

♥ I Love their munchkin voices.

♥ I Love the looks on their faces when they discover something new.

♥ I Love that they Love me.

♥ I Love that they adore their Daddy.

♥ I Love their tender innocence.

10 "I would rather's"

2007-08-21T21:09:00.000-04:00

♥ I would rather endure every challenge that comes with being a Parent of Multiples than to live one day without my children.

♥ I would rather be happy, healthy, and loved than be rich, famous, and beautiful.

♥ I would rather drink coffee than tea.

♥ I would rather have a hand full of great friends, than tons of acquaintances.

♥ I would rather see the ocean than the mountains, and I would rather be surrounded by the desert than lush green trees.

♥ I would rather be at home with my family gathered around lounging on the sofa, than out on the town.

♥ I would rather stay up late at night than wake up early in the morning.

♥ I would rather write an email than talk on the phone.

♥ I would rather have 1 thousand dollar handbag than 20 cheap ones...my poor Husband;)

100th post series

2007-08-21T20:42:00.000-04:00

Hello Hello!

Well, I figured I would follow the 100th post celebration that I have seen many of you do. It's fun & entertaining, and gives us a better sense of who each other are. So here is the first of 10 posts in honor of the 100th. Enjoy!

10 things I could not live without as a Mother of 3 toddlers

♥ An emergency poop party prevention and clean-up kit which includes:

duct tape
tight fitting onesies
and a little green machine

♥ Zoo Pals paper plates, plastic utensils, and a big stash of snack size Ziploc bags. Not so environmentally responsible, but I think Mom's with two or more children are of the hook on that one.

♥ Ikea highchairs. Although we are almost out of the highchair stage, these were some very well kept secrets. They are simple, easy to clean, and stack in to a nice neat little corner.

♥ Nearly illegal doses of caffeine.

♥ A Costco membership and an extra freezer(I am still working on the latter).

♥ A Choo Choo wagon. What did I do without this brilliant little invention for the first 2 years of my triplets life?

♥ A stash of chapsticks and candy bracelets. These can be a real lifesaver in airplanes, Doctor's offices, and shopping malls .

♥ A Petsmart nearby to substitute for the Zoo.

♥ Spanx...the lady who perfected these things is my hero! I carried almost 17lbs of baby, enough said.

♥ A posse of Momma Friends in Blog Land.

Post# 99 1/2

2007-08-21T00:06:00.000-04:00

BBBRRREEEAAATTTHHHEEE......

That is what I am trying to do at this moment. I cannot believe that I have not blogged for a whole week, sorry! I have been interviewing, and was Blessed with an interview at M.A.C. which is my absolute dream job. There were a couple of opportunities that were also great, but they ended up falling through. However, I had no idea in my wildest imagination that I would be interviewing with my favorite company in the world♥

I have been eating, breathing, and sleeping M.A.C all week. Getting hair, nails, and makeup perfected. Today I had my second interview which I had to bring a model to and apply her makeup in front of the regional trainer. Scary stuff for a stay at home Mommy who has been out of the loop for a few years. I think I did great! I am praying for the job. It is such a passion of mine. I must say, that regardless of the outcome, it was a great learning experience. I have been on a super fast, very exciting journey this week. If nothing else I reminded myself of my abilities and potential. Today when I was standing there dressed in all black, funky hair, & perfect makeup I laughed to myself. If they could only see me on a "normal day". Hair in a ponytail, traces of yesterday's makeup, and three sticky children hangin off of me in my nightgown at lunchtime...and on that note, PRAY FOR ME:)

I promise I will be back tomorrow for my 100th posting!!!

Yin and Yang = to Laugh or Cry

2007-08-13T15:30:00.001-04:00

My Husband, I love him to death. He makes me laugh every single day. He is the most generous, gentle natured, hard-working man I know besides my own father. But how in the world did the most type A personality in the world find the most type B personality? I guess this is what yin and yang is all about? I am a bit anal when it comes to organization, you have to be in a household of this sort...here are a few funny things from the weekend ~~that I really found no humor in at the time~~. I even took pictures to give you a better idea;)

I wonder in milliseconds how much longer it would take to peel back the safety seal than to punch through it like a savage?

And, how hard is it to keep sippy cups with sippy cups, lids with lids, bowls with bowls, etc? They all have a place, the same place they have been neatly lined up for 2 1/2 years. I let him do the dishes so he could feel the frustration I have over the dishwasher that has been broken for the last month...so I got out of doing the dishes for once, now I have to go back and reorganize my kitchen cabinets. I think that is called "backfire".

And lastly, what in a Man's right mind would make him think that he should use a MAC lipstick to write a note to me on the mirror? And no, it was not a Love note. My MAC obsession is very well known, I am constantly made fun of for the big black metal suitcase full of it. I pull it out and polish it and play with it like a little girl and her barbies. When I woke him up at 1am to ask him what he wrote the note with(before I had found my mangled lipstick) he mumbled, "Oh Missy, You have hundreds of MAC lipsticks, I just picked one out of the box". This afternoon, when I revisited the topic over the phone he assured me it was no big deal and offered to re-shape it when he gets home, uhhhhh No Thanks. Lets just say, this note on the mirror cost him $20. I am going to Nordstrom later on today to replace it ;)

free your mind, and the rest will follow...

2007-08-13T14:20:00.000-04:00

This is post #98 by the way, only two more until the big 100th!

One of my inner battles lately has been whether or not I should return to work or stay home until the kids go off to elementary school. A few months ago, when I enrolled them in a part-time Christian pre-school, it was for the purpose of socialization and a few hours of free time for myself. I wondered if the stress sometimes associated with getting them ready and out the door was worth the 6 hours a week of "free time" I would be getting. By the time I got them all strapped in and dropped off I would be rushing to get back for them. Regardless, I decided that it was worth it for them . They too could use some quality time away from home, some mental stimulation, and some socialization.

I have always imagined myself being a SAHM and felt Blessed that financially we could pull it off. What I had not stopped to realize was that in exchange I am becoming a sleep deprived, impatient, unmotivated, stressed out Mommy. My kids are three of the most adorable, wonderful kids out there. Don't get me wrong. We have so many special moments together, we laugh, we play. But truth be told, I am worn out. The abundance of energy that these three little ones have has caught up with me. The noise level, the fighting, the destruction of anything and everything, the messes, the uncontrollable laundry and dishes...I need to step away from it all. I had to be VERY honest with myself to admit that I am overwhelmed, worn out, and ready for change. I have struggled with guilt over even considering going back to work while other Mother's are forced to. I have a choice, some do not. I had a short conversation with one of my best friends Angie not long ago. She is a working Mother of triplets, the same age as mine. As I vented my frustrations out to her for the hundredth time, Bless her heart for always listening, she pointed out that being home with them all day every day probably added to the stress. I gave that a lot of thought. There are times that I put the kids down, hurry and get dressed(yes, at 8pm), and race out the door to wherever is still open. Why am I finding peace everywhere but in my own home? I know a whole new set of challenges come with balancing a career and family, but I suspect that a Mother who works races home to find her peace. To hug and kiss all over her children and cherish every second she has with them. Either way the messes and the laundry are here to stay, but I have found that I am completely unmotivated to keep up on the messes that are reoccurring as quickly as I can clean them. I am outnumbered.

Last week, which will explain my absence in blog land, I threw my resume back together, pulled out some of my old work clothes and got on the ball. I cannot explain how liberating a feeling that was. To look at my own resume and remember how hard I worked for those credentials. I had a respectable career, I almost forgot that I was capable of more than mothering. To have the phone ring for interviews in response, I was amazed that I was still marketable after these few years off. The excitement came flooding in. I realized that somewhere deep down, I had been lying to myself. I have missed my old self. I want to emphasize that I take the responsibility of Motherhood very seriously. I respect each and every one of you who is in the trenches, spending every last bit of your energy on your household. It is admirable, and I am the first to praise you. But I have to be true to myself, and I think my time as a SAHM is up. I feel as if I gave my kids a solid 2 1/2 years of my undivided attention. They will always & forever be my first priority and my greatest love. But I am going to try and rid myself of any guilt I have for putting them in preschool full time and taking a part of myself back. I think it will in turn balance our crazy lives out. They will have the opportunity to learn in an atmosphere where Mommy is not always saying NO! and GET DOWN! all day. They will learn to play with other kids, count, read, learn the alphabet, and all those other things that I cannot always be consistent with. And I will get to do something I am passionate about and feel a sense of accomplishment. When I am home, I will appreciate that time so much more.

So this is what is going on in our lives right now. These are tough decisions to make, but the Lord will guide us in the right direction. I have done much praying about it and will continue to seek his answers.

I am so Thankful for you little crazies.

2007-08-07T20:48:00.000-04:00

I had always secretly dreamed of the day that I would be sitting across the table from my very own little boy or girl as I watched them in adoration. It seems as if the very moment I fell in love with my Husband I could see our children in my minds eye. I could already imagine hearing things like "I love you Mommy" and the sweet giggles that would someday fill our home .

Today as we shared our first brave lunch date together, no strollers or highchairs just Mommy's two hands and a whole lot of faith, I suddenly remembered those daydreams about that moment. Only in reality I had three little ducklings sitting across from me, repeating my every word, folding napkins carefully into their laps, and giggling with excitement. In the midst of the chaos, the noise, and the endless amounts of energy that these 3 little people posses, it was nice to have a humbling moment.

As we sat at Baja Fresh I thought back to my days as a young college girl in Scottsdale, Arizona and all of the lunch hours I spent at this same place unaware of what turns my life would take in just a few short years. It is so fascinating to watch the cycle of life and amazing to have your wishes come true. No matter what level of craziness we reach, this was my biggest wish.

At the same time, I realize that these are the little memories that they will cherish as well. It's not the dinner that we painfully rush through, praying that the noise level at our table doesn't kill the ambience in that fancy restaurant, the perfectly coordinated outfits, or the squeeky clean house we have just before company arrives. It's the snapshots that we remember, the Saturday mornings when the house is actually a bit of a disaster and we are all snuggled up on the sofa together watching Charlie and Lola in our PJ's. If only I could freeze these little frames of our lives in my head forever. A little quality time with Mommy or Daddy and the excitement of simply being together and enjoying one another. It is my hope that they always stay close, enjoy each other's company, and love each other unconditionally. To have a family is such a Blessing.

And to remember these things just before a nervous breakdown is an even bigger Blessing;)

You know things are looking up when...

2007-08-06T09:53:00.000-04:00

You got to the Mall on a weekend with no stroller and You and your Husband can successfully manage all three.

You help your toddler overcome the fear of the vacuum by teaching him TO VACUUM
*He did an awesome job for 2 1/2- hillarious pics coming soon.

You get through a whole coloring session and all of the crayons are in tact, wrappers and all.

You can bring out the playdough and not worry about them eating it

~~tearing off diapers and getting poop everywhere is a thing of the past because you are now potty trained. oops, can't say that one quite yet~~

Love it!

2007-08-03T23:39:00.000-04:00

I am a very big fan of the German jewelry designer Niessing. My wedding ring was designed by them and it is my most cherished "material" thing. I was browsing around on their website and I saw this ring named quint...hmmmm? Turns out there is one that would be really cool for triplets and quads too! They are absolutely beautfiul and I love that they would be symbolic for us Mommy's of Multiples(sorry twin Momma's). I know what's on my wish list next Mother's Day :)

The day Mommy nearly loses her mind...

2007-08-03T10:32:00.001-04:00

Yes Ladies & Gentleman, this Mommy is about to vent. This morning my kids made me cry...and not tears of joy. I can only remember this happening one other time and maybe once in the first few crazy weeks of their lives. But today, they got the best of me.

And here's the way it went

I bought one of my best friends a gift at the Coach store for her Birthday and the kids grabbed the bag down off the counter and pulled out the box. When I went to double check it, I realized the salesperson who beautifully wrapped it had accidently stuck something else I had been looking at in the box. How often do you get an extra something in your bag at the Coach store? Well, my conscience would not allow me to keep it for myself so this morning I decided to make a trip to the mall to return it and have a nice day out with the kids. I got up before the babes and jumped in the shower to get ready. Things were peaceful and quiet.

I get out of the shower 20 minutes later, and the hallway smells like a petting zoo.

My stomach immediately drops, not sure if it was from what I feared awaited me behind their bedroom door or the smell that was permeating in the hallway. I walked in to find my fear was reality. Poop EVERYWHERE. It doesn't take much poop smooshed into the carpet to make you feel that it is EVERYWHERE. And those little feet running around in circles and jumping on the bed will really multiply that feeling. Now, one thing I never like to do is greet my kids poorly first thing in the morning, but today my eyes went straight for the diaperless child and I was livid. Asjia chimes in with "Kaya big trouble, take off di-purrr". The kids are 2 1/2 and they know that this is a HUGE no no in our house! I looked around at the mess and just broke down and cried. I must add that I am not a crier. It takes a alot to get me there. The reaction from the kids was the same as I remember it being when I saw my own Mom cry...Uh oh, we finally pushed her over the limit This also marks the first day I have ever answered "what" to the kids instead of "yes" when they were calling my name(a big no no for me). Mason asks me while Im cleaning the poopy carpet where Daya was and I said "Daya's at work, lucky him". Mason repeats "lucky him". Ok I thought, time for me to check my attitude and make this yet another learning experience for them. I pulled the sympathy card... "look at this disgusting mess that Mommy has to clean up" "Can you smell this, isn't it disgusting?" "poor Mommy". They all chimed in, "oh Mama" "ewww, scusting" "dats nasty". Guess they got the point.

Perhaps someday I will look back and laugh at this. Not today, and probably not tomorrow either.

2007-08-02T19:06:00.000-04:00

I just wanted to say HAPPY BIRHDAY to the Steece quads. I have been keeping track of Suz's Blog for a while and saying lots of prayers for them. Welcome little Angels, may God continue to watch over you and get you home safe and sound!

And, OMG, how exciting is all this baby news! I just stopped by the Wilkinson Quints Blog and saw that their Quintuplets made their BIG debut on Tuesday weighing in from 3lb 6oz to 5lb 1oz!!! They made it to 34weeks, AMAZING!

Congratulations to both families, our thoughts and prayers are with you!

More thoughts on "our little crew"

2007-08-01T23:18:00.001-04:00

Being gone a weekend with one child can really stir up a lot of thoughts. What I am realizing is that our family is exactly what it is supposed to be. I always worry about the attention each one of our kids get and even feel guilty about not having more one on one time with each of them. I was blown away with Asjia's behavior on our trip to Texas. It seemed like she just flourished. It made me wonder what each one of the boys would have been like on their own. Who would my kids be if they were a singleton, how much further would they be in terms of development if I had hours to invest in things like colors, numbers, or potty training one at a time.

Then I came home. As we drove in to our neighborhood, Asjia covered up her eyes and literally started squealing. She was so excited. We got to the driveway and she threw her little arms up in the air, "we home" "Macy, Kaya, Daya"! She walked through the front door and ran to them, gave them hugs and was patting them on the head. She was so excited to help Mommy pass out surprises to everyone. I had wondered if the boys even noticed her being gone, and yes they surely had. They seem to have bonded with one another. She talked about them the whole time.

Last night at bedtime it was as if they were all overjoyed to be reunited in their bed together. They all ran upstairs, snuggled up and were soundly sleeping in no time. Today they are still excited to be back together. They were playing ring around the rosy all day and one thought kept coming back in to my head...one child can't play ring around the rosy with themselves. Things are as they should be for our silly little family.

Our little crew

2007-08-01T22:53:00.000-04:00

My kids really did make leaps and bounds this past weekend. They are really coming out of that toddler hood and seeming much more like "little kids". Today I heard Asjia remind Kyle about "ladies foost" as he was pushing his way in front of her for a snack...lol The sweet thing was that later on I set their juice on the counter, her and Kai grabbed one and to my surprise she ran straight to Mason and said, "here you go Macy". She is learning chivalry and selflessness both, yay! Today they all helped me unload our groceries from Costco and bring them to the front door. They were all pretty big things and I was shocked at their strength. They were actually a big help! This evening Kyle "cleared" the table for me, without even asking. And when I say "cleared" I mean he brought me all of the dishes instead of ditching them on the floor like I expected. It was the sweetest thing. Asjia caught on to what he was doing so she jumped in and picked up all of the food that had dropped on the floor and brought it to me.

I was reminded of a special I watched recently on TLC about a family that had 16 kids...yes 16! The family was quite amazing and really inspired me. The attitudes of the Mother and Father were very positive. Everyone worked together and had a very important role in making the household successful, it was amazing. They built an enormous custom home all by themselves and everyone was involved. Those 8 years old and up were all issued a drill! The Mother mentioned that it was easier with sixteen than when there were only five, which I found to be pretty interesting. I often wonder if I am to hard on my kids. I do not cave at their every beck and call, and for 2 1/2 I often wonder if my arms length is a tad to far. However, I think that my kids have an advantage over some others, they will probably be slightly ahead of the game when it comes to things like blowing their own nose, tying their own shoes, and making their own beds. One thing I am sure of is that there is never a shortage of love, comfort, or support. As long as I am alive they will have an abundance of those things. I am ok with that.

Thank You Janelle...

2007-08-01T02:40:00.000-04:00

One of my very best friends Janelle sent me a few amazing pictures that she took of my children during her last visit. Unfortunately the beauty doesn't quite translate through the scanner, but I am sure you will be able to identify the beauty that I see.

I am embarrassed to admit, but I cannot figure out which one of the boys this is. They are not identical and usually look quite different, but this picture has me stuck. It makes me realize just how much they do look alike!

This one is definitely Kai, he loves to have his finger in his nose(we are working on that one)!

More sweetness from Texas...

2007-08-01T02:16:00.000-04:00

This was the amazing view from outside the airplane window. It looked sureal, like a fantastic fluffy blanket that you could just jump out the window and land on. There were a few times when Asjia got nervous and asked to "get down from da sky", but overall she was fascinated from what she was seeing and understanding from just outside that window...

Here is my sweet baby girl taking a little nap in my arms. She was all tuckered out from the excitement. She was such an awesome little traveler. She screeched with excitement a few times as we were descending into Dallas, " I see cars, I see da bus, I see big chu-ruck, I see da boats, I see trees", it was so entertaining to see her light bulbs going off.

This is a sign for one of the stores in the mall. Ironically, this is Asjia's nick name from her Daddy. He calls her "Asjie-Buiyahkah". Don't ask. I had no idea it was a real word and cracked up when I saw the sign. If anyone knows what bui-yah-kah is please enlighten me.

Surprise Surprise!

2007-08-01T01:22:00.000-04:00

I am having one of those moments where my mind is working so much faster than my mouth, and in this case, my typing fingers. It has been one extraordinary week and finally a moment to share!

About a month ago I got the idea to surprise my Mom with a visit for her Birthday. After much thought I decided to travel with Asjia. I struggled with who to take, but thought it would be nice to have some girl time with my sweet baby. With a few great people in place to help me pull this off, it went almost EXACTLY as planned:)

The plan:
Using a stand-by ticket compliments of my sis who works for US Airways, we hoped to make it on the 1:45 flight. Arrive in Dallas at around 3:45pm, my other little sister Sam would pick us up and we would race to my Mom's job. I made Asjia a t-shirt that read, "I am here to say Happy Birthday to my Nina". We thought it would be great to send her in the lobby and look like a lost child. My Mom would definitely be on the scene immediately after hearing the buzz of a lost child. She would then realize that that child was her own Granddaughter. All went as planned until Asjia began crying and was apprehensive about entering a strange place without Mommy, so I came in and hid. My Mom was called up and saw Asjia first. The look on her face was one of total and utter confusion. She slowly entered the lobby with a look of disbelief on her face(she later told me she thought she was day dreaming) and scooped up Asjia. It was just a few short moments before they were hugging and kissing and giggling in their own little world. It was the greatest surprise ever. We had such a wonderful time, even if only a short one.

Here are some things I observed while on the trip...

People are truly wonderful beings. So many people offered a helping hand as I was trying to make my way through two of our nations craziest airports with a child, two bags, and a carseat in tow.

As hard as it is, when you separate multiples it truly gives them a special time to blossom. I was amazed at my precious little girl the whole time. She held my hand the whole time, she never once cried, she added so many new words to her vocabulary, and spoke so many new sentences. She was Mommy's little sidekick and she sucked up every moment of it. She LOVED the freedom of walking beside me through the airport, the malls, and in to restaurants. Getting adjusted back in to the choo choo or the stroller will be quite interesting. It was also really special for me to be able to give her my undivided attention and really appreciate all of her. She is such an angel.

No matter how much I fantasize about a moment away, I could barely stand being away from my boys and my Husband. It feels so un-natural to be separated. I realized just how tight of a unit we are, and how empty I feel without the everyday craziness, the bucket loads of love, and the noise level of my own little family. Coming home was bittersweet. I could almost feel the tender hugs and hear my boys saying Hi Mama! as I imagined walking through the door. When I saw them, they looked like they had grown, Chris said the same thing about Asjia. Even the scent of my Husband was so much more noticeable. It was that sweet yet manly smell that I used to long for when our Love was just beginning and our relationship was long distance. I miss my Mom and Dad terribly and can only hope and pray that it is God's will for us to be together as one big happy family in the same city someday.

My very surprised Mommy in the wee hours of the night, hence the sleepy faces.

My little sister Sam and I, acting very delirious well past any normal person's bedtime.

My precious Daddy and I.

After a night out on the town with my Husband, and a couple of days away from home, I feel as if our life and even our marriage has been refreshed. It was just the right amount of quality time with and away from one another to give us both a new appreciation for each other and our lives. What we have money cannot buy, it is an extraordinary gift from God. Chris was so great while I was away. He took perfect care of home. The word on the street was that he even had the boys perfectly coordinated and looking very stylish on their evening out. The house looked great and he even managed to get all of the laundry done! What a stud;)

This is a new one...

2007-07-27T01:47:00.001-04:00

Just when I thought I had heard every over used line that us triplet Mom's have to endure, a new one surfaces.

I took the kids to the waterpark yesterday and it was a great time. The kids have been in the water just about every day this month so they are beautifully sunkissed. I noticed this lady watching me and finally she broke down and came over to ask if they were triplets. After being drilled about my life, our finances, and some other random stuff she asks, "Did you birth them?". I was a bit confused and wondered if she was really asking what I thought she was asking? She clarified...I know it's a really personal question but, are you their Mother? She had just observed me running around like a maniac saying "stay with Mommy" a hundred or so times trying to keep them safe in the water...am I their Mother?

I know, I know they are just to adorable to be my kids, that must be it. I actually answered her but I was thinking to myself... No, I was about 8 months pregnant and I woke up one day and these three sleeping babies miraculously appeared in cribs so I assumed they were mine.....

Now I really have been asked EVERY silly question.

♥Date Night♥

2007-07-27T01:40:00.000-04:00

Yes Yes Yes! I finally broke down and had my trusty Elise come and entertain the kids for a few hours so my precious Husband and I could enjoy some much needed time together. It's amazing what a few hours alone can do for a married couple. I have a little restaraunt that I absolutely love that he had not tried so we had dinner there. It was fabulous. Then we went to Chinatown and checked out Gallery Place. Afterward we just walked around downtown, holding hands, and enjoying the sights and sounds of the city. I truly enjoyed myself and cherished the time with my husband. My wish is that we get to do this at least once a month from now on, it was just what the Doctor ordered!

They read my note!

2007-07-25T00:58:00.000-04:00

I was super excited to go to Gap online and see that they read my note and took it to heart. I was really disappointed when they came out with the Gap Kids Red products and they were only available in 0-24mos. Today I was pleasantly surprised when I spotted the Red icon in the Toddler section, now we can all get Inspi(Red). In case you have no idea what I am talking about...the Red line at the Gap and several other major companies have created it as a great way of giving back. They give 50% of each sale towards Aids in Africa. The line is really hip and cool looking and it's socially responsible too!

Bed time tricks

2007-07-25T00:36:00.000-04:00

Usually my kids are so willing and ready to go to sleep at night it's really quite wonderful. Lately I have noticed a little bit of hesitation and even some Mommy manipulation going on. The boys, who are both pushing 35lbs both look at me with puppy dog eyes and ask for me tp pick them up and carry them up the stairs. I used to have no problem doing that, but we are talking about some sturdy little toddlers I have here. As I bent down to pick Mason up tonight he says, "Mommy, I scared". "Scared of what my love?" I ask, and he responds, "da bug". Then as I am dramatically walking up the stairs as if I cannot handle the weight of the two of them, Kyle says, "Mommy trong", and Mason chimes in, "I luh you Mama". Ahhhh, way to make Mommy's heart flutter. Then we get them tucked in to bed and it's kisses, and kisses, and "Mo Kissy please" until I have to be "trong" and cut off the kisses. I always feel so bad walking out of there, I am always wondering if everyone got the same amount of kisses and everyone is going to sleep feeling equally loved. I think they have really figured out how to get me.

WOW...my babies are becoming kids

2007-07-24T00:49:00.000-04:00

I often wonder who my children will be when they mature. Their little personalities are all so strong and distinctly different. I have realized that the single most frustrating things about each one of them is also that "thing" that makes them so special when I think of them.

My sweet Kyle is Mr. Independent and definitely the most Strong willed out of the three. His will is so strong that at times I want to just give up. He is so determined to carry out whatever it is that is in his plan, that NOTHING will stop him. He is a little bit of a loner and is usually off on his own little mission. The times when his personality traits make me swell up with love are times like today when he was determined to get his own shorts on, it didn't matter that both legs were in one hole, he was going to make it work. And the button was either going to get in the hole or he was just going to pop it right off. Or times like when the other two are fighting for a place on my lap and soaking up the hugs and kisses and I catch a glimpse of him just watching from the other side of the room where he is hanging out. It breaks my heart, and because of that I always make sure I snatch him up and give him lots of affection, even if I have to pin him down...lol

Then there is Mason. My little ball of fire. His energy never runs dry, and his smile is infectious. He is the little monkey that jumps on the bed for hours during naptime and laughs at me when I come in to settle them down. He thinks everything is funny, and it is really difficult to get him to take me seriously. He is the baby, if only by two minutes so I think he uses that to his advantage. He jumps on me and it hurts, but then he squeezes me so tight, and plants so many kisses on me that I can't get upset. He will definitely be my class clown and my flirt.

Then their is Asjia. My little lady. Drama Drama Drama. She should be an actress. She falls out like she has the holy spirit in her when someone takes a toy from her or when she is overly tired or hungry. But she is so gentle and sweet, and so intelligent. She is constantly surprising me with her humor, her memory, and the way she figures things out. She picks up on everything and is such a little ray of sunshine.

It is so fascinating how my babies are growing in to these little kids. They were who they were from the very start. When I think back to when I was pregnant, their personalities in the womb were very telling of who they are now. It's crazy to think of what comes next. What will these personality traits evolve in to and who will they become? It's amazing to me that I helped create these three little people.

sweet...

2007-07-21T22:37:00.000-04:00

Dear Lord, it's such a hectic day,
With little time to stop and pray,
For life's been anything but calm,
Since you called on me to be a mom.

Running errands, matching socks,
Building dreams with building blocks.
Cooking, cleaning, and finding shoes,
And other stuff that children lose.

Fitting lids on bottled bugs,
Wiping tears and giving hugs.
A stack of last week's mail to read,
So where's the quiet time I need?

Yet when I steal a minute Lord,
Just at the sink or ironing board,
To ask the blessings of your grace,
I see them in my small one's face,

That you have blessed me all the while,
As I stop to kiss that precious smile.

Weekend Fun...

2007-07-21T21:33:00.000-04:00

Enough of the serious stuff

This morning Angie and I thought we would be clever and beat the Saturday crowd at the mall. And we did;)The kids jumped around in the play area just enough time to get tuckered out! We had a great time squeezing every last drop out of this summer day. On our trip home, the sun was so tempting we decided to skip nap time and head to the pool. Because Mommy UMMMMMM likes a challenge....

The pool was more like a circus. No really. This one Mother in particular stands out in my mind. This little boy was splashing us, very aggressively for a toddler, so my sister in law kindly asked him not to do that. He splashed harder, so her tone changed a little. Then he spit, yes spit at us instead. She asked where his Mommy was and he splashed off in to the sunset. We looked around the baby pool at all of the Mother's and no one seemed to be paying any attention to this child. Then he ran out of the gated area to the big pool, still no one paying him any mind. Then he darts toward the waterslide, clearly he cannot swim and thinks this is just another slide like the ones he's used to at the park. This one emptied into 6ft of water. Another lady saw him and alerted the lifeguard so he ran after him and just as reached the top of the stairs, the lifeguard snatched him up. The lifeguard headed back to the baby pool asking who's child it was, still nothing. When he quarantines him back to the baby pool to go hunt down the parent, finally this Woman who had been sitting a mere 10ft from us hears the chaos and realizes it's in regards to her 2 1/2 year old. So she proceeds to scream at HIM as if HE should be much more responsible and keep his little behind in the baby section. YES! I couldn't believe my eyes & ears. She sat right in the middle of her child's naughtiness the whole time, and he ran past her out the gate, and NOTHING! This whole production took a good 10 minutes. We had no reason to even suspect that was her child. But he was the one who needed to get yelled at? Crazy Woman...It blows my mind how careless people are with their children. And quite frankly it angers me.

What did I tell you about those Mommy Instincts?

2007-07-21T06:06:00.000-04:00

I strongly believe we were given this crazy thing called Mommy Instincts as a parting gift from childless days.

Last night I was getting ready to tuck in as usual, after my nightly ritual of locking up, setting the alarm, and checking the kids. I turned on the monitor in my room and got this overwhelming feeling of nervousness. I looked around in the darkness and made my way to the bed. I was scolding myself in my head for being so paranoid & silly. I had just walked up from downstairs after securing the place like a Federal Penitentiary myself. What was worrying me? During prayer, I could not shake the feeling and at one point was afraid of waking my Husband because I was praying out loud, intentionally. After tossing and turning, I finally fell asleep about a half hour later(1:45am'ish).

At 5am my Husband wakes me out of my dead sleep with, "is that our alarm?", and yes, it was. Our Home security alarm that is. I cannot explain to you the feeling of panic that came over me. It's still dark outside, we are half dressed and disoriented, and there is no way the alarm was set off by either of us. Or the triplets. I leaped out of bed and ran to their door. I didn't want to go and give them that same feeling of panic so I stood and waited. ADT called and Chris went down to check all of the doors. Nothing. Nothing, except for that for the first time in HISTORY I had forgotten to lock the deadbolt on our front door...which was where ADT claimed the alarm had been set off. Because we have only had our alarm go off randomly one time, during a heavy wind storm, we opted to have the police come out and take a look. They found no signs of the door being pryed open, but looked around the entire property and made their presence known before leaving. If there would have been a caption above my head it would have read, "Please stay, OH PLEASE, OH PLEASE, OH PLEASE". Luckily, the sun started to come up about a half hour later.

Having a child(or three) really changes your frame of mind in this type of situation. It's no longer a thought of mine to run and hide and grab a sharp knife on the way. It makes me obsess over how I would keep my babies safe if in fact there was an intruder. How would I hide three small children, or keep them quiet, or safe? What is the best plan of action when you are awoken from a dead sleep and faced with this sort of circumstance? There is such a feeling of vulnerability. I am not just thinking of myself anymore & the new dynamics are quite complicated.

Now as I remember, just about every time I have needed to be on guard, my sense of awareness tunes right in and my personal alarms start going off long before. Something is suddenly off. I have an unsettled feeling that doesn't go away. This has happened to me just about every time an emergency type of situation has occurred. I am calling it Instinct.

Did someone open the door and make a run for it at the first sound of our screeching alarm? Was it a total fluke? Or was it God's way of reminding me of something? Like the importance of locking my door and setting my alarm, or being more aware of my surroundings. Either way, my instincts have proven to be strong once again. It was either a potentially very bad situation or a hand delivered message from he who has much more control over our security than I do...

summer days

2007-07-19T21:47:00.001-04:00

Scary Scary Scary! I clicked on the pic of Asjia inside the train and my stomach turned when I saw 2 HUGE SPIDERS! I would have freaked if I would have seen them when I was taking the picture. Thank God none of my babies got bit. For the record, they will not be playing in any outdoor eqipment that I cannot fit in myself to inspect from now on...gulp

ok ladies, I need your input

2007-07-18T15:03:00.000-04:00

I have seen the tradition of having a big "100" themed post for your 100th blog posting and I am quickly approaching that number. Being the addict that I am, I have started to put a little thought in to what I might post. Then I wondered what you would all like to read? So, I am taking suggestions for ideas on the 100th post. I need your creative minds!

Stroller Addiction

2007-07-18T14:55:00.000-04:00

I admit, I have a terrible stroller sddiction. Since birth I have owned 8 of them. One single stroller, three doubles, three triplet strollers, and a double with a stand on board. I guess since we are 2 and a half the stroller days are almost over, but now I am tempted by all of these great little doll strollers for Asjia. Will it ever end? They are just too cute!

I laughed until I cried...

2007-07-18T00:48:00.000-04:00

I the midst of my hectic day yesterday I called upon my own Mommy for comfort. I called her up and let it all spew out. Poor thing. She is always such a source of positive encouragement for me, and always has something wise to say that will calm my nerves. I was telling her about my sweet Husband and how he had accidentally layered on some frustration to my day. She jokingly said that she could practically hear me letting him know how upset I was. I told her that surprisingly I refrained. I was in that feeling sorry for myself mode and said "he will understand when I drop dead from being overworked". Now in hindsight I am dying laughing at myself. What a Drama Queen!

So this evening I am talking to my best friend April and she is telling me about her Grammy. This is the most beautifully spirited, Godly woman I know besides my own Nana. April asked her how she felt this evening on the phone and Grammy said she felt terrible. Her legs hurt so bad she could barely walk or sit down. Here is what Grammy says next..."but you know what I'm going to do?" "I am going to plaster a big smile on my face and wheel myself down the hall, that way when I die everyone will say, Lonny? How did she die? There was nothing wrong with her!" LOLOLOLOL Oh Grammy
I so know how you are feeling:)

I guess even the best of us are allowed to have pitty parties from time to time...

The trials & tribulations of Motherhood

2007-07-17T22:09:00.000-04:00

I usually try and keep my blog positive. After all, my life is positive & I am a happy person. I love my kids more than anything and I am thankful to be so divinely favored. Today however, was one of those days and I must air my dirty laundry. Those of you with multiples or even one child know that despite your efforts to stay happy & positive, this job can take every ounce of energy you have.

Today I felt like Lynette from Desperate Housewives. The one with the nasty little twin boys who are always pouncing on her. My kids woke up on a different planet, or perhaps I did...who knows? They had my heart rate up first thing this morning, no gym required. We went to Costco and people came out of the woodwork to try and help me, must have been the look of defeat on my face. At nap time the pictures were literally falling off the walls in the hallway because they were jumping on their bed. After the 10th time in their room to discipline them(and wondering what the neighbors were thinking)I heard them laugh when I shut the door. Those little suckers. Have you ever tried to clean poop off of a Jute rug? It's easier to replace it. I think we are playing a major role in keeping West Elm in business. That's the very reason I love my little green machine...which Mason got a hold of this morning, and before I could get to him spilled the poopy water contents all over himself and the clean laundry. Yep, upside down, stinky poopy water all over.

Now they are in bed, all lined up. They look like little Angels. It's amazing how these little tiny people can dictate a household. It's amazing how the love between a Mother and Child is so unconditional. How tomorrow when they rise, with their little sleepy faces, I will have totally forgotten about the torturous day they gave me today. And how they will have forgotten, and only care about my morning hugs and kisses and our journey down the stairs to eat breakfast together.

comments please:)

2007-07-16T01:04:00.000-04:00

OK Yes, I am doing it. I am blatantly asking for your comments.

Why? Because I am completely amazed at this world of blogging, a little sad that I am just now getting with the program, and super excited to meet all of my cyber friends.

I have to admit, this has become such therapy for me. To read all of your stories, laugh, cry, and relate. I can barely go a day without it, and sometimes I get on a few times a day. Although I gush about it to him, I think my Husband gets a little nervous about why I am up so late on the computer, and why I dash down to the office as soon as the babes go to bed. If he only knew that I was bonding with all kinds of borderline insane, greatly Blessed, refreshingly open and honest Mommies that crack me up and make me cry...his worries would be no more. It's great to have you guys!

Receiving a comment is a little like getting a present every day. I put the counter on my page a few weeks back and Im shocked every day that people actually come here and visit. I get so excited. Then I realize that I am doing the same thing, and many blogs I still have not found that extra moment to comment on. So Yes, I am asking you to check in & comment. Introduce yourself....pretty please just take a moment. I would love to hear from all of you!

Question: Do any of you blogging pro's know what the whole site feed thing is all about?

and does anyone know how to protect pictures from being copied? I would like to have them so they cannot be highlighted and saved...Thanks!

Goodbye Weekend waving

2007-07-15T22:52:00.000-04:00

Boys Boys Boys. Look at Kai's shirt...are 2 and a half year olds still supposed to be drooling like this?
My little lady pretending to wash her hands

Got to love the action shots. Note the ground in the photo of Kyle running...the missing word = NO

Kids had a blast, it was a bit of a free for all. Candy(while running by the pool) and loaded strawberry lemonade all in the same weekend.

The sights & sounds of early morning

2007-07-14T12:39:00.000-04:00

Asjia- Mama Mama, lookie da bug!
Kyle- (very seriously)Ohhh Mama
Mason- Oh by gosh, a bug!

Asjia- Hi Nina! Nina sky! Nina up day-er. Hiiieeeee Nina!!!
Mason- aweplane Mama, Mama aweplane(repeat until aknowledged)
Kyle- Go bye bye see Nina, aweplane!

Nina is our Grandma♥

A week in the life

2007-07-14T05:32:00.000-04:00

I have so much to say I don't know where to start! It was a crazy week around here. Christian was home and she had Cheerleading camp all week. I have a new appreciation for "Soccer Mom's". Getting ready, packing everyone up, traffic, back and forth....whew! Finally, at 5:34am on Saturday morning I have a moment to blog:)I did a little sprucing up on my page. I am very dependent on creative outlets to keep me sane. I have(had) always worked in a creative field, Interior Design, Kitchen Design, Visual Merchandising, etc. and lately I have been deprived of anything that stimulates that portion of my brain...so this is the result. Tell me what you think, I did it all by myself!

Christian did awesome at camp. I was so proud watching her. I wish I had a fraction of the rhythm she has! She is still nervous to tryout, although if her young mind had any idea how good she looked out there she would have no fear whatsoever.

The kids had a blast on the trampoline. I had knots in my stomach the whole time, hoping someone did not bounce off quicker than I could catch them.

And, they got over their fear of Dogs. SUPER YAY!!! By the end of the week they were saying "Oh, so nice Doggie" and feeding her out of their hands which is HUGE. I could barely pry them out of the car to go inside at the beginning of the week because they were scared of the dog. That is a happy moment for me.

This weekend is going to be yet another whirlwind. We are having a family BBQ at our house today, and a Water Park Birthday Party to go to tomorrow. I swore I would have the kids in swimming lessons by now, and here we go to another pool with no lessons under our belt. Has anyone seen my time? I seemed to have lost it all!

Beautifully Blessed weekends to all of you♥

The price of summer

2007-07-12T01:00:00.000-04:00

This is us trying to cool off at Ikea last week.

Happy Half Birthday!

2007-07-11T18:32:00.001-04:00

We are officially 2 1/2 years old today, Happy Half Birthday Angels! It seems like yesterday, and many years ago all at the same time that I was being wheeled in to the Operating Room. Lying there just praying that we would all make it out alive and well with tears streaming down my face. I can see those precious scrunched up faces so perfectly in my mind. I can remember the sounds, the smells, everything. I fear that those memories will fade someday, and that is why I remind myself constantly to cherish every moment and every stage. It is here and gone in what seems like a blink of an eye. I can't believe that we have made it through the first 2 1/2 years of life. Though a part of my heart mourns for the times that have passed, I am so excited about what the future holds. Mommy loves you guys!

Thank You for finding me worthy

2007-07-08T00:50:00.000-04:00

Though this age is trying, I am overwhelmed every day at the rewards. Little things like hearing them say Please, Thank You, and Excuse Me all on thier own. After what feels like months of trying to teach them and wondering to myself if they even really got the message, it's music to my ears to hear it coming from their little munchkin voices. I know it seems crazy, but today Asjia sneezed and covered her mouth then turned to me and said, "escuse me Mommy". I almost cried.

When we got home from a party I attended with the kids this evening they all piled on top of Daddy. I raced to the office to lookup a foreclosure I had spotted down by the water. Kyle came running into the office yelling, "Mama, Daya got owie". I walked in to the living room where Mason and Asjia were surrounding him and taking turns kissing it to make it better. It just amazes me that we have so much control over a child's mind. It makes me so proud to see my children be well mannered, compassionate, and loving little people. Being a parent really is such a gift. I feel so honored that God chose me for this. I have no idea why he found me worthy, but I am so thankful that he did.

A five day old french fry, but no veggies

2007-07-06T17:35:00.000-04:00

It's always a little bit scary when you see your child munching on something and you know you didn't give it to them.

Like when you go to buckle them in their carseat and you realize they are enjoying a piece of God knows what from God knows when...

Or when they dig up the missing sippy cup or bottle that you could never find and are drinking out of it.

And it's always lovely when they decide the food suddenly looks appetizing after it's been dropped and swept up into a nice dusty pile, eeeewwww.

I cringe at these situations and brace myself for an upset tummy, but it never happens! They must have some seriously strong immune systems. I can remember how paranoid I was about cleanliness when they were newborns. I remember nearly crying when my niece beat me to a pacifier that had fallen on the floor and stuck it back in my baby's mouth. Boy how things have changed.

The best thing ever!

2007-07-06T01:59:00.000-04:00

We finally got our choo choo wagon and I LOVE it!!! I only wish I would have had this thing a year ago. The kids think it's great and it makes shopping FUN:) It's now on my must have list for Mothers of Multiples, no doubt!

They really are nuts...

2007-07-06T01:32:00.000-04:00

So the boys are downright crazy. They seriously crack me up all day long. If being a Pro Wrestler was actually a respectable sport, we would have a very secure future for them. I would start grooming their natural abilities now. I think we will shoot for something like Football, or maybe even Rugby instead. I can only imagine how life will be in 5 years time. Poor Asjia, she is always caught in the crossfire. She is going to be a tough little cookie. Nothing phases her these days, much like myself. Here are pictures of Exhibits A-I

Here is Asjia looking at them like they are nuts. She knows the deal.

The match moves to the sofa and the nudging turns to wrestling.

Kyle tries to pull mason up by his diaper, sofa cushions come flying off.

*I would have usually stepped in at this point, but photo journalism was my intention here

Kyle takes a breather, so Mason uses his lower body(backwards mind you) to trap him and pull him back in.

Back on to the sofa. Asjia gets trampled and thinks its funny for a fraction of a second.

Asjia fighting them off.

One down, one to go. "NO, NO!"

Mommy calls a timeout. Mason gives sister a kiss to show he is committed.

And we all made it out alive...

summer do's

2007-07-06T01:16:00.000-04:00

I took my little men to the barber for their summer haircuts and they both simultaneously started screaming when they realized where we were. I had been thinking about getting clippers and doing it myself, and that moment helped me make up my mind. The results? Not bad for a first time gig.

Is this little man kicking back watching TV really only 2 1/2 years old? Where have my babies gone?

As we grow...

2007-07-05T17:17:00.000-04:00

My kids never seize to amaze me. They are a guaranteed laugh every day. It's amazing how much they are suddenly picking up on. They can tell me when they are hot or cold or tired or hungry. They are becoming such little people. They point out every single truck, boat, fire truck, airplane, and bus when we are driving. They recognize our neighborhood when we get close and all shout "going home". They sense when we are close to the the "wada" and start cruising the front windows when it's about time for Daya to come home from work. Asjia thinks everything girly is "cute". She loves jewelry, painted nails, lipgloss(chapstick), and and dresses that twirl. The boys are starting to fight like men, ughhhh. They grab each other's shirt collars and wrestle each other to the ground. Asjia tries to break them up, shaking her finger no! no! They tell me when someone is scared. And now, the happy dance when something is super exciting. Our latest game is mixing up names. They call me Mason and Kyle, Daya & Nina. And Doggie & Piggy. Then I do the same to them, and we all crack up when we get it right. At times I can barely remember my life before them. What did I laugh at every day? What kept me feeling busy...or tired? All I know is that I would not trade it for the world.

Sleepless in D.C

2007-07-03T00:11:00.000-04:00

*update*
The horomonal thing has passed and Chris and I are back on the same planet:)

I am feeling tired and a teenie weenie bit emotional at the moment. I feel like venting, but Im gonna pray about it and get some sleep instead;)Ironically, I just read Lots of Scotts post on Marriage & Honoring your Husband as well as The LPM Blog which had answers from a survey taken by husbands. Both were right on time! I learned that I need to dig up some more energy and be a better Woman and Wife than what I am being. Uh oh...

No, seriously.

Just a thought. I recently heard that lie detector tests worked by monitoring a person's physiological reactions. I think there needs to be a similar device which mediates communication between Husband and Wife. When stress or mis-communication is detected an alarm should go off and the device could sort it out and translate the broken languages that both people are speaking. Great idea right?

Play Play Play!

2007-07-02T19:37:00.000-04:00

Today was a whole lot of fun. I finally have pics, yay! Our good friends 3LB came over for a few hours and played, then we had an after party at the park. Enjoy!

Im back!

2007-07-02T13:59:00.000-04:00

Wow...last week flew by! My computer had a virus:( and I accidently left my camera battery at a friends house so apologies for my post-less blog!

Mason carefully watching his barefeet for "da bug".

Kyle almost has the hang of his tricycle. A few more practice sessions and he will be ready to run some of my errands!

Asjia policing the party. She is so funny. She is the safety patrol, constantly saying "get down" and "be careful"...

2007-06-29T01:59:00.000-04:00

love
a profoundly tender, passionate affection for another person.

pa·tience
the quality of being patient, as the bearing of provocation, annoyance, misfortune, or pain, without complaint, loss of temper, irritation, or the like.

un·der·stand·ing
to accept tolerantly or sympathetically: to grasp the significance, implications, or importance of.

sleep
to be careless or unalert; allow one's alertness, vigilance, or attentiveness to lie dormant.

Having a Flashback

2007-06-25T18:06:00.000-04:00

There are moments during the craziness when it suddenly hits me that soon, these moments will be memories of the past. Time passes so fast, and each stage is so special in its own way. I have to stop myself and suck it all in. I was just thinking about how quickly two summers have come and gone, and how quickly this one is going. I had to dig up a picture and reminisce...

Jessie Davis

2007-06-24T01:45:00.000-04:00

Jessie Davis, the pregnant Mother of a two year old, 9 months pregnant with her second child and missing since Friday was found today. I have been sick watching this story unfold. What has happened to us? Why is a story of this nature becoming common?

My heart is broken for her family who is left behind to grieve. Her Mother said in a statement today *something like* I encourage you to turn to your loved ones and tell them that you love them, you would never think the unimaginable would happen to you & you never know what the next day may bring. So true.

There is simply no explanation for such acts. Evil is the only thing I can come up with. I pray for her family, especially her little son. I pray that she suffered little. I pray that justice will be served & that her family will find peace eventually. I pray that she and Chloe are together in Heaven. God Bless them all.