Wordless Wednesday...Valentine's Day

Q&A With My 8 Year Old!!!

*Birthday questionnaire can be found here*

Parker,

Happy 8th birthday, my (always and forever) special Valentine!  Your dad and I are blessed to call you our oldest son.  With the passing of each year, you continue to truly amaze me with your knowledge and eagerness to learn.  Your smile and laughter brightens each of my days.  As you continue to grow and spread your wings, I am thankful to share with you your unique journey through life.  May your 8th birthday be GRAND...full of surprises, hugs, and sincere love!  Happy Birthday!

Love Always,

Mommy

Back to School 2011...Take One

Back to School (2011 edition) has been a  pretty darn big deal in the Lindsay House.  This year marks the beginning of Garrett's start in our local elementary school...bring on all day Kindergarten!  In addition, Ryder begins preschool this Monday.  We have chosen a "new" preschool for our family (ahem, Ryder) this year and are excited for the change.  Ryder's cousin will be joining him in the classroom this year and I would LOVE to be a fly on the wall their first day!  Super cute photos to come on Monday...stay tuned!

Back to Tuesday!  I will admit, it was easier for me to send Garrett off to Kindergarten than it was Parker.  Parker was my first.  My guinea pig.  He and I were not sure what to expect.  Together, we were newbies.  At the time, I was also pregnant with Hudson; therefore, I was a HOT MESS when Parker started.  Garrett, on the other hand, has been pleading to go to Kindergarten for two years!  It has been easier to put my nerves and emotions in check when this new journey is so appealing to him. 

Tuesday morning went super smooth...lunches had been packed the day before, coordinating outfits were at the ready, and Mama's camera battery had been charged.  The boys headed to school with their bellies full of scrambled eggs, toast, fruit, and milk.  Eric, who was amidst working 6x12's (night shift to top it off), was able to join us on our walk to school before heading to bed.   

Hey mom, I'm in 2nd grade this year!

My mom was unsure how many fingers I should hold up for Kindergarten...she

threw an apple in my hand.  Appropriate, yes?!

Parker LOVES school and is a great student...his smile says it all.  He is ready!

My Baby G...no worries about starting Kindergarten from him!

I have no idea why we get asked ALL THE TIME if they are twins...ha!

Garrett at his table and happy to start his morning off by coloring!

On my way back through the hall, I stopped for one last photo of Parker as well. 

Overall, he puts up with my antics fairly well considering he is oh so cool (and mature) now.

The dismissal of the students at the conclusion of the day was over the top crazy.  We have had some changes within our school district which has included additional students, staff, and buses merging with our local elementary school.  That being said, both of my boys bounded out of the school doors with smiles and stories to tell.  Thankfully, upon picking Parker up yesterday I noticed the after school flow proceeding much more efficiently.  Within the first few weeks, I am certain most of the kinks will be worked out. 

Garrett heads back for his second day tomorrow as our school does a staggered start for the Kindergarten students.  He is more than eager to meet new friends, get back outside for recess, and partake in another one of Mommy's packed lunches. 

Through The Years...First Day Of School

It was back to school today for our older two boys!  Parker is making his way through elementary school as he began 2nd grade today!  I had to fight back a few sniffles as Garrett joined him at the elementary school this year.  Indeed, our Baby G started Kindergarten today!  Let's take a look at "our boys" (versus our bitties) on the first day of school in years past....

2009

Parker's first day of Kindergarten & Garrett's first day of Preschool

2010

Parker's first day of 1st grade & Garrett's first day of his 2nd year of Preschool

 

2011

Parker's first day of 2nd grade & Garrett's first day of Kindergarten

As their mom, looking at this progression, I am pleading for time to stand still!  To quote my 3 year old nephew, "I cannot like" my babies growing up!  I have more first day photos to share, but this mama is quite simply exhausted.  Stay tuned!

Happy 7th Birthday, Parker

Thursday, February 12, 2004

I was admitted to the hospital, at 36 weeks gestation, to be induced (due to preeclampsia) with Eric and I's first child.  A son, whom we had decided months in advance, to name Parker Ryan.  My pitocin induced, 18 hours of back labor was unlike anything I have experienced to date.  After two hours of painstaking pushing, our first son was delivered via emergency c-section. 

On February 14, 2004 at 1:13am, Eric and I were presented with undoubtedly, the best Valentine's Day gift...a 7lb 3 oz, 20 1/2 inches long, dark haired baby boy.  He was beautiful.  He was perfect.  He resembled both his mommy and daddy as he still does today.  Eric and I quickly discovered a new love.  An overwhelming, heart wrenching love for our first born.

Today, we celebrate our first born's 7th birthday.  7 years old!!!

Dear Parker,

Happy 7th Birthday!  The past year with you has been nothing short of amazing...full of firsts, growth, and overwhelming pride! 

You continue to love school and excel in the classroom.  You take pleasure in learning and strive to do your very best.  Within our family, you live up to your nickname of Professor Parker.  Your memory is sharp as a tack and rivals that of your mama.  Your dad and I are honored to hear that you are a role model in the classroom.  I hope your enthusiasm to digest new and exciting information remains a strong force within you.

Your love for dirt bikes remains true; however, in the past year you have taken on new activities much to your traditional-sport-loving mama's delight.  It has been a joy to watch you on the field, in the wrestling room, on the diamond, and on the track.  Your quest for knowledge carries through in your extra-curricular activities as well.  Keep up the great work, buddy!

Who would have thought, 7 years ago, that you would now be an older brother to not one, not two, but three little brothers?  Certainly not your Dad and I!  Your brothers adore you.  Garrett is your right hand man, looks up to you, and dubs you his best friend.  You argue, you physically fight, and have been know to make each other cry.  However, your connection is unlike any other sibling relationship in the house (perhaps because you have been together the longest).  Ryder and Hudson take delight in your presence.  You make them laugh.  Often, you can be found laughing at them in return.  You are quick to greet them in the morning and bid them goodnight in the evenings.  I know for certain, there will come a time when you deem your younger brothers annoying and will want to carry on (at times) without them.  Humor me, please...don't always be too cool for them! 

The past year has certainly been one of firsts.  You have lost your first, second, and third tooth.  When you smile your new toothless grin, I no longer see the little boy you once were.  This past year has allowed you the opportunity to attend non-family sleepovers.  I will be honest, the nights you were away left me panic stricken.  However, you were more than eager to stray from us from time to time.  I am thankful for the friendships you have formed and the trustworthy parents we have come to know.  It is music to my ears to hear you are always on your very best behavior while under the supervision of others. 

Often, I find myself staring at you while you play, read, watch TV, and go through the motions of your day.  I see a younger version of your handsome daddy in front of me.  While pregnant with you, we learned that we would be having a sweet baby boy.  Instantly, I envisioned (and desired) a dark haired, blue eyed, son.  A son chiseled just like his daddy.  Much to my delight, I got my wish. 

Parker, I hope that age 7 is magical for you!  It is my wish that the next year brings you great joy, fun, and continued growth.  With each first that you encounter, it is my first as a mom as well.  I am so honored to play such a vital role in your journey through life.  Parker, I am so proud God chose me to be your mom.  My first 'lil dude, I love you today, tomorrow, and always!  I sincerely hope your birthday is as special as you are!

Love,
Mom 

Party Day

It's Party Day...

There are not one, but two handmade birthday banners hanging in my Dining Room.

Goodie bags are stuffed.

A balloon bouquet was ordered, picked up, and graces our buffet.

In addition, vanilla cupcakes topped with festive sprinkles were ordered and picked up. 

A Coleman Sleeping Bag, DS game, Lego City Camper, and Lego City Police Truck have been wrapped.

The Bowling Alley has been reserved and paid in full.

All invited party guests have RSVP'ed yes.

Coordinating napkins, paper plates, and table cloths are at the ready.

Upon putting the children to bed last night, Eric busily cleaned the house and hung a new Dining Room chandelier from the ceiling.

Today, is party day.

A time to celebrate Parker's 7th Birthday with his brothers, best buds, and (still cool) parents.

We were ready, people!!

But, then...

...well, then...

Parker's fever came back overnight.

Garrett developed  a fever as well.

Ryder and Hudson have a constant stream of mucus coming from their noses.

And fevers.

And hacking coughs.

And dear old Mom?

I am fairly certain I now have Strep throat and an ear infection.

Did I not wave my white flag proudly enough?

Early this morning, we were forced to cancel and reschedule Parker's birthday party.

He was heartbroken to say the least.

Truth be told, I was upset as well.

We softened the blow by allowing him to open an early gift.

We may or may not have ate a few cupcakes before 9am.

I will never tell.

The ironic part?

Due to busy schedules, Parker is now having his buddies over twice for his 7th birthday.

Yep.  It's true.

His buddies will join us next Friday night at our home for games, pizza, and sundaes.

(Let's not forget we are throwing Hudson's first birthday bash the following day).

Come March 11th, we will FINALLY take Parker and his buddies bowling.

One month later.

Due to the scheduling of leagues and tournaments at the bowling alley and our own crazy schedule, it was the best we could do.

These parents paid for bowling and we are taking those boys bowling, darn it!!!

Stay tuned for party pics...take two (ahem, and three).

Happy *HEART* Day!!!

The older two boys were busy celebrating Valentine's Day at school this week.  I will admit, I greatly enjoy taking on artsy-crafty projects alongside the boys.  Okay, keeping it real...often, I am the leader and they follow along.   Regardless, we work well together and it is fun to dig into my craft supplies.    

Garrett and his classmates have been passing out their Valentine's throughout the week and yesterday was his "true" party.  The kiddos enjoyed cupcakes brought in by their parents and games rewarded with small prizes.  In the past, the children at KKNS have been asked to decorate a bag to place their Valentine's inside.  This year they were asked to decorate a box (yea!!!).

Garrett, Eric, and I worked together to make Garrett a Robot Valentine box.  I was pretty happy as I had all the supplies on hand with the exception of the felt hearts (which I scored dirt cheap during a sale at Jo-Ann Fabrics). 

Garrett and his Robot...SUPER cool (and yet, super cute!).  Garrett's favorite part was putting on the sticky rhinestones (aka bolts!). 

This was the first year that we did not do store bought Valentines for the boys to pass out.  Darn those ladies over at eighteen25!!!  They have posted some absolute yumminess for Valentines Day inspiration this year.  We jumped on (last year's bandwagon) and made these A-D-O-R-A-B-L-E Tootsie Pop Valentines for Garrett's friends.  About 48 of them...

Okay, so we substituted a Blow Pop in place of a Tootsie Pop.  No biggie.  Garrett was amazed that Mommy took one picture, yet we had 48 (give or take) of these spread out all over our Dining Room table. 

Ahhhh...Parker's Valentines.  If you checked out the above link to the Tootsie Pop Valentines, you may have noticed the Robot Valentines.  Parker wanted those.  I cannot say I blame him.  They, too were pretty darn A-Mazing!  I (Parker has been sick, remember) had darn near completed the 17 of them *we* needed, when I had one HOT mess with M&M's and Tacky Glue.  Change of plans...

I went back to the sisters over at eighteen25 and came across these...

They were super simple to make and Parker wrote his name (and classmates' names) on the back.  Personally, I think the photo works splendidly with the Happy *Heart* Day template!

 

Inside held a sweet treat...

Two Robots are better than one, right?  Especially when Mommy has all of the materials already out.  Thankfully, we were able to carve out a few minutes here and there while Parker was to sick to complete his box.  Eric would like for it to be known that he attached the head.  Thanks, Daddy!

Parker's Valentine's Day Party at school was a success.  Mrs. A's class enjoyed cupcakes, cookies, goodie bags galore, a Valentine Craft (lead by yours truly, duh...), and a quick game of 7-Up (OMGosh, I had forgotten all about that game...too fun!).

Have a fantastic weekend!!!!

Dreaming of Legos and Sock Monkeys In My Sleep

For the next two weeks, I will have birthdays on the brain.

And birthday parties.

We now have two kiddos with birthdays 9 days apart.

It is entertaining to say the least.

And stressful.

Here is a sneak peak at what Mama has up her sleeve...

 

This Saturday we will celebrate Parker's birthday with his all time favorite school buddies.

Oh, and a brother.  Or two.  But not three.  Chunka will be under Great-Grandma's care .

Okay, he will be napping.

Parker opted to forgo a BIG, combined, family, and friend B-day bash this year.

Rather, we will be taking our little lovebug (his b-day falls on Valentine's Day if you are new around here)

and his BF's bowling. 

Pins+Pizza=FUN!!!

On Sunday, our family will join us for more celebrating.

And ice cream sundaes.  'Cuz we will be sick of cake after Saturday.

Come Monday the 14th we will celebrate some more.  Just the 6 of us. 

After all, that is how we roll.

Next weekend...oh, next weekend...

We will celebrate the birthday of an-almost-but-not-quite one year old.

HUGE sigh.

One year old.

Our baby.

I am so not ready for that one!!!

Tooth Fairy Pillows

The topic of losing teeth is a hot one around our house.  Parker has now lost two and Garrett has his first loose one.  The race is on to see who can lose more!  When Parker was younger, my Mother-in-Law bought him a kit to make a cute tooth pillow when he began losing his baby teeth.  I am clueless as to where it ended up. 

While browsing Etsy a few weeks ago, I did a search for tooth fairy pillow.  Holy cuteness!  The pillows themselves varied in both design and prices.  I found them ranging in price from $4 to $30!  Add in the cost of shipping and I knew I could construct a few pillows myself.  Cheaper!


I had endless amounts of ribbon, buttons, and embroidery floss on hand.  I picked up some sheets of felt (on sale), poly-fil, and a few appliques (again, on sale) and it was time to get to work. 

Garrett's finished tooth fairy pillow...his favorite color is blue and I think the little robot is adorable.  I am not thrilled with the button placement (felt tends to stretch some), but overall I am happy with the end result.  I love that he can hang it outside his door or on his bedpost.  Let's be real...some kids may not be thrilled with an unknown fairy coming into their room at night;)

Parker's pillow...number two.  The first one I did found itself in Ryder's hands.  Enough said.  I am digging the purple, green, and black color combo!  Parker is a fan as well! 

On the back of the pillow I put a little pocket for the lost tooth.  In return, the fairy can leave a few coins or rolled up bill in it's place. 

My sewing machine and I are on the outs.  The tension on it has been giving me problem for months.  I need to have someone look at it.  Therefore, this was a no sew project (outside of the buttons).  I used fabric glue and it worked like a charm.  The plan was to hand stitch the outer edges, but to save time I cheated. 

Bring on the tooth fairy...we are ready!

Superbowl Saturday 2010

On Saturday, the Lake Erie Flag Football League played 11 games in under 8 hours.  Awesome, right?!  Superbowl Saturday was downright cold. Our morning began at 9am with Parker's pre-game practice and my nephew's first game of the day.  Parker's first game followed at 10am.  Both Parker's team and Ashton's team won their first round of games.  Go 49'ers!  Go Vikings!  Enter round two of games...

Going into halftime of the second game, Parker's team was down 14-0.  They made quite the comeback in the second half, scoring 27 points!  Sadly, we lost 28-27 to the Titans.  One darn stinkin' point!  Ironically, we beat the Titans by one lone point earlier in the season. 

Parker, his teammates, and coaches following their second game...

you had a great season boys (and Tiff!!!).

The Titans went on to play the Vikings (my nephew's team) for the 1st-3rd grade division Superbowl title.  The boys played their hearts out with it being a great (and close) game.  In the end, the Vikings won! 

Ashton and his mama, Leslie!  The Vikings had an undefeated season!  WooHoo!

Parker and Ashton were both sad to see the season come to an end.  Frankly, so am I.  Though we started off rocky, I quickly grew to love both practices and games.  Parker is more than eager to play again this Spring.  It would be awesome for Parker and Ashton to be on the same team!  Fingers crossed...

Are You Ready For Some Football?

As of last Saturday, Parker's football team is 5-1.  They have one game remaining before BIG Superbowl Saturday on the 30th.  Parker is pretty stoked as the games that day are played at the Junior High Football Field versus the High School's practice field.

At the beginning of the season I found myself having major doubts about flag football.  They keep score.  There is a winner.  There is a loser.  Players are not given equal playing time.  This is very unlike our experience with both T-Ball and Soccer at the beginning level.  Thankfully, the kiddos do get a snack at the conclusion of each game.  Face it...that is HUGE in youth sports!

When Parker asked to play football I was caught off guard.  He has never watched a lick of football on TV in his life (and still hasn't)...dirt bikes is where it's at with him!  Parker (for lack of a better word) was pretty clueless as to the rules, regulations, and even the basics of the game.  As I watched his practice, I found very little instruction or teaching of fundamentals happening.  As a first year player (clearly the only or one of few on his team) he needed some help. I was frustrated!    Parker spent a fair amount of the beginning games sitting on the sidelines.  Honestly, I found myself saying we would finish the season and that was it.  I was done!  Shame on me!  Parker was not throwing in the towel.  He was happy and having fun!  Thank goodness, I never voiced my thoughts to him. 

With each practice and game, Parker has acquired more skills and knowledge.  He is getting more playing time with each game.  I have realized his coach needed to warm up to Parker and Parker to him.  While learning fundamentals is awesome, I have witnessed Parker come into his own by simply watching his teammates play and playing the game himself.  Who was I to judge the right or wrong way to coach?!  Thank you Parker and Coach J for proving this mama wrong!

Parker headed out the door to play...go get, 'em!

Primarily, Parker has been playing offense...snapping the ball.

The offensive team in their huddle.  You may be able to tell the coach is looking at Parker...from the sidelines I could tell something big was coming and was holding my breath. 

Oh, it was something alright!  They handed the ball off to Parker. For the first time!  The play called for him to run the ball; however, he got excited (or nervous) and threw it.  The coach laughed...I laughed.  I wish Eric had been there to witness it!

Setting up for the fake and playing a decoy...the play worked a few times and got them a TD!  Go 49'ers!

Parker, I am so proud of you and your team! 

Will He Be Singing...

...All I Want for Christmas Is My Two Front Teeth?

It was a busy morning in the Lindsay household.  Busier than normal!  Is that possible?  Why, yes it is!  While brushing their teeth this morning, Parker and Garrett emerged from the bathroom bellowing Parker had lost a tooth!  'Bout time! Parker got his first loose tooth a few days prior to starting first grade.  It appears to have tightened up a bit; however, the one next to it started wriggling free.  Thank goodness!  Parker was on the slower side to get in his baby teeth.  Garrett, on the other hand, had a set of choppers lightening fast!  As of lately, I began to wonder if Garrett was going to lose a tooth before Parker.  Can you imagine the drama that would have unfolded over that?!

Parker was one smart cookie this morning!  His tooth fell into the bathroom sink while he was brushing his teeth.  He was quick to pull the drain stopper and prevent  his teenie tiny tooth from making its way into our plumbing.  Whew!

He looks super cute minus one tooth; however, it is a reminder that my first baby is growing all too quickly!

Congrats, Parker!  The tooth fairy is sure to stop at your house tonight!  She is ready!

Two 'Lil Apple Runners...One With A Rocky Start

A few weeks ago, Parker came sprinting out of school waving a paper in his hand.  "I want to run in the Kids One Mile race at the Apple Festival, Mom," he shouted in my direction.  Man, I wish I could bottle the enthusiasm that flowed through his body at that moment.  It was pretty awesome!  I let him know I would happily register him for the race and wished him luck.

We began our walk home from school and I knew a request from Garrett was in the immediate future.  Garrett questioned if he, too, could run in the parade.  I let him know it was not a parade, but rather a one mile "race".  "I want to do it," Garrett replied.  One mile run.  Garrett.  He is four.  Honestly, I was not sure if the rules would allow him to enter.  There are three separate categories for the Apple Run...8 and under Kids One Mile, 9-13 Kids One Mile, and the 5k.  Was there an age minimum for the Kids 8 and under?  Hmmmm...Mommy would look into it.

I breathed a sigh of relief upon discovering I could register both older boys for the run.  They were over the moon.  Pumped!  They told everyone about the race.  They trained.  The more excited they got...the more excited I got.  I only wish Eric was not working nights the weekend of the festival; therefore, sleeping during the day.  He missed Parker's great football game (more coming on that), the parade, and the race.  The boys missed him.  I missed him.  Family fun just is not the same when you are missing a key member. 

Parker and Garrett after we checked in at registration.  We had an "Oh No!" moment when we were informed that Parker was not pre-registered.  Ummm...yes, he was!  After looking through their registration forms the workers realized Parker's form was stuck to the back of Garrett's form.  Poor 'lil lad did not received his T-shirt on race day because of it.  Shucks!

Prior to leaving for the run the boys had been riding their bikes for no less than 3 hours.  I attempted to encourage them to sit down.  You know, reserve some energy for their BIG run.  The sitting did not last long. 

With no sitting going on I thought it would be a good idea for them to stretch.  This is what I got.  Seriously, boys!  I am unsure if there is a leaf or piece of paper on Garrett's bootie.  Goofballs!

A sampling of the Under 8 runners...Parker and Garrett are in the back row.  Parker has a huge smile on his face and is ready to GO!!!  Garrett is sizing up the competition.  Or something like that.  

...and they are off!  Seconds after this photo was taken one lone runner landed smack dab, face down into the pavement.  Any guesses who?

Yep, my Baby G.  Who knows how he ended up face first in the concrete.  Was he pushed?  Did he trip over his own two feet?  Did the older dude to his left dart out in front of him and therefore he stumbled?  As he fell to the ground I heard gasps....oh no's...poor little guy's.  The largest gasps came from myself, two brothers, and sister-in-law.  This was Garrett on the ground.  My spirited child.  For those of who know Garrett we wondered what in the world was coming next?  Would he blame Parker?  Would he yell something inappropriate?  Would he kick his feet and throw a monstrous fit? 

Quickly I rushed into the road, big 'ole camera and zoom lens around my neck, and scooped up all solid 50 pounds of Garrett off the ground.  I hugged him tight, did a once over on his face, and asked him if he was okay.  Yes, mama.   Do you still want to run?  No...'eh, yes! 

Before my eyes, I saw my Baby G pull himself together and take off again.  About 45 seconds behind the other runners.  Off he went...he and his poofy hair.  My heart swelled with pride and he stole many hearts in the crowd.

Here comes Parker...more than half way done.  I did not give my kiddos enough credit and thought I would get more photos of them running.  The plan was to walk briskly alongside them, but they were fast little boogers!  I anticipated a lot more walking from each of them!  Truth be told, neither of them walked for more than 30 seconds total.  They rock!

Here comes Garrett.  And his poof!  He had the BIGGEST smile on his face as he approached me.  As he ran past he questioned if he was in last place.  No, little buddy.  You are doing great!  Keep on running.  And he did!

Two tired little runners with beat red cheeks!  Boys, mama is so proud of you! 

As I approached the finish line the clock read 13 minutes (and something).  I would estimate Parker had to have had a time in the 9-10 minute range.  Garrett I would put right around 11 minutes.  I know nothing about time when related to little kids running, but I am impressed.  More importantly, they each finished what they started!  Both are eager to run in next year's Apple Run.  I believe I am going to ride my bike alongside of them to keep up.  Well, and get more action shots.

Wordless Wednesday...'Lil Apple Runners

(More to come about Parker and Garrett's One Mile Kids Run)

How He Rolls

Helmet, Chest Protector, Gloves, and Handmade Ramp are NOT OPTIONAL, but a given...

Parker's Personal Lunch Lady

When Parker started Kindergarten, I became OBSESSED with packing his lunch.  My main goal is to provide him with a nutritious lunch that will sustain him through the day.  Yes, I am fearful my baby is going to starve while at school.  Honestly, I also enjoy packing his lunch as it allows me to maintain some sort of control over a small portion of his day.  Let's face it, while in school all day he spends the better part of his awake hours away from me.  Finally, Parker is the world's slowest eater (next to me, of course) and he cannot afford any time standing in the lunch line. 

Parker got bored with sandwiches early in the beginning of the year (told you he would, daddy).  I began to get upset he was not getting a hot lunch while at school.  A new world of lunch options was available to us when I discovered the Thermos FUNtainer Food Jar!  There is an overwhelming amount of colors, sport motifs, and character designs for the kiddos to choose from. Score!

With the FUNtainer I can send leftovers to school with Parker...spaghetti, soup, and casseroles.  Chicken has made it's way into the container as well as mac-n-cheese.  From time to time I have filled the container with cold milk and sent a separate container of dry cereal for Parker to add at lunch time.  

 

More often than not, Parker's lunch consists of a main dish, a veggie (carrots or cherry tomatoes being his favorites), a fruit (he is not picky here), a cheese stick, a treat, and something to wash it all down with.  I LOVE the Apple & Eve Fruitables Juice.  I am by no means Super Mom...the occasional PB,& J or Lunchable (blech!) do find their way into Parker's lunchbox on occasion.  This year we are allowing him to buy on Fridays...Pizza Day.  After all, I have been told it's the cool thing to do!