From Our Front Porch You can See.....

1, 2, 3....Did I really blink that many times?

2012-01-07T15:27:00.001-06:00

The days have passed so quickly and I can't believe you are 3.

Just yesterday they placed you in my arms and you slipped right into my heart.

Just yesterday we brought you home from the hospital still swearing you would never wear PINK!

Just yesterday I wondered what this mama of little boys would do with a little girl.

Just yesterday you wore bows on your tiny head that were bigger than you were.

Just yesterday....I am sure I haven't blinked so where did the yesterdays go?

Just yesterday you learned to smile and giggle.

Just yesterday you learned to crawl.

Just yesterday you learned to walk and carried your lovie and your baba with you everywhere you went.

Just yesterday you learned to ride the laundry basket down the stairs.

Just yesterday you cried when I left your sight.

Just yesterday you were this little girl I carried everywhere I went.

Just yesterday....I am sure I haven't blinked so where did the yesterdays go?

Just yesterday you learned to talk and I heard you call me Mama.

Just yesterday you would grab my cheeks and turn my head to get my attention.

Just yesterday you slept in the craziest of places.

Just yesterday as soon as we would say it's time to go to the ball field you would grab your shoes and say, "yets go!"

Just yesterday....I am sure I haven't blinked so where did the yesterdays go?

Just yesterday I remember listening to a lady tell me at the grocery store that when everyone of her children were born she grew a new heart and I believe she is absolutely right!

Dear Ellee Bean,

I do not know where the time has gone but I do know that the last 3 years have gone by way to fast. It is very hard to believe that this little girl that we didn't know what to do with, could already be this big. It is very hard to believe that in the 3 short years you have been with us you have changed our world forever.

The day you were born I remember thinking to myself, I wonder which of the boys she will be like. Will she be energetic and athletic like Caden? Will she be one to entertain herself and let her imagination soar like Reece? Little did I know that you would be the perfect mix of both of them. You love to play ball, run, jump, dive, catch and you could go forever, just like Caden and you entertain yourself for hours and your imagination is amazing, just like Reece.

You have your brothers wrapped around your fingers and you think they are 10 feet tall. You have your daddy wrapped around all the others and I am almost certain that he wouldn't have it any other way. You have changed your mommy in more ways than you can ever imagine and it's kind of fun to see the world through the eyes of a little girl again.

Ellee Rae, It is so hard to believe that all the tomorrows are now yesterdays and you are 3 years old. This family didn't know we were missing a thing until you came along and we realized that we were missing everything that came with having you.

I love you more, I love you to the moon and back and I love to infinity and beyond!

~Mama

The funny things you say:

These toilets are TINORNUS (ginormous from the movie ELF)

Bunny Easter

Reindeer Rudolph

My noses are snottin'

These brudders are getting on my nerves.

You've Been Racked

2012-01-05T10:38:00.002-06:00

This year for our Family Advent we decided to do Random Acts Of Christmas Kindness (RACK)

I got the idea from TSJ Photography and thought it was a fabulous idea and one that would help my kids to understand that it is always better to give than to receive. This is something that I have always told my kids but I don't think they ever got it until we did this.

I absolutely loved that they got excited about doing something for others and that they looked forward to what we would be doing. Even Ellee loved giving a gift to someone and saying Merry Christmas and got upset when it wasn't her turn to do it. While she may not understand completely just yet, it is a good foundation for her to figure out what the boys figured out this Christmas.

We didn't make 25 days but we did make a lot of them and this next Christmas we will make 25 days since I will have a whole year to prepare for it!

Things we did:

We delivered 100 candy canes to car windows all over Paola.

We left money in Zip Lock bags and put them on Red Box locations with a note to buy themselves a treat to go with their movie or game.

We passed out grocery gift cards randomly to people we would come across that we thought needed a smile that day.

We left Money in Zip Lock bags on newspaper stands for people to pay for their paper with.

We put quarters in bags and gave them to little kids in the parking lots that we would come across so they could buy something out of the vending machines inside the door.

If we went out to eat we bought gift cards at that location and passed them out while we were there. For example, there was a young man eating one night by himself and the kids took one to him because he reminded me so much of my brother. They also gave one to people standing in line at Culvers waiting to order as we were walking out the door. You get the idea!

We delivered a gift to a student that just wanted a book for Christmas and times are tough for his family.

We delivered gift cards at Sonic to someone who was having car trouble hoping to brighten their day.

We picked people at Random in the McDonalds drive-thru to bless that day.

Each one of the kids took in money to the Library and paid off late book fees for 3 families.

Some of the things we did we attached a note that we downloaded from that wonderful blog and other random acts we did, we did because I also wanted my kids to learn that it is always nice just to take notice and to lend a smile as you do something nice for someone.

We would let people go in front of us that were standing behind us in line at the grocery store.

We helped an elderly lady put groceries in her car.

We left bigger tips if we went out to eat.

We joined with several other people and gave to families in need this Christmas.

I think as a family, we were more blessed by this advent than anyone that might have received something from us and more importantly my kids understand that it is always better to give than it is to receive. We have been given so many blessings in this life and my prayer for my kids, has always been that they will grow to have a heart for others.

If you are reading this and you do not do an advent or are looking for a different way to do one I would encourage you to do this. I promise you, the blessings you receive from this are far greater than you could ever imagine. Wouldn't it be cool if everyone just decided to Pay It Forward next Christmas or just did something nice for someone every day of the year??

Christmas 2011

2012-01-05T08:49:00.000-06:00

Our first visit to Crown Center during Christmas and it was absolutely BEAUTIFUL!

My baking Bean helping make

All of these!

Christmas Eve began at 4:00 a.m. when I heard the pitter patter of little feet go across the kitchen floor. I got up to see what in the world was going on and they were on the couch covered in blankets with a computer between them and they were Tracking Santa!!!

Tracking Santa has been something that we have done for several years but never has it started at 4:00 in the MORNING!!! What is a Mama to do?? I did what every good Mama would do and said track away I'm going back to bed, knowing that they would be dog tired on the night that the Big Man in Red was to appear and I was exactly right!

The kids were wondering what Elvis would do on this last night on Cottonwood drive and I don't think that they ever thought that he would...

Make them look like Rudolph!!

OH ELVIS....You are a funny ol' elf!

We attended Christmas Eve Service and the kids could hardly wait to get home to unwrapped their ornaments and their jammies. They think it is the cheesiest tradition we have but they always love seeing what ornaments they get to add to their collection that one day they can decorate their own trees with.

Reindeer food...

Is never in short supply at the home of the Bressler Bunch

And Christmas morning almost just makes me sad these days.

My days of having a living room full of big things that take up the whole living room are just about over.

Now all they want are expensive electronic gadgets that come in very small boxes and we all know that small boxes do not take up much room.

Caden got his Nook Color that he begged and begged for!

Reece got his Nintendo 3Ds that he couldn't live without!

And Miss Muffet got her Hello Kitty Bike and her Hello Kitty Helmet that she has been talking to Santa about since the middle of October. She knew what she wanted and it never changed from the time she saw it in the store!

Santa enjoyed his cookies and we are one very blessed family!

It only took 11 years of

2011-12-22T10:52:00.000-06:00

~~begging~~ asking to go see the Plaza Lights in KC.

A year ago at Christmas time and I metioned again

that I wanted to see the lights

did I ever dream that I would be living

close enough to actually get to see them without any

~~begging~~ asking at all.

They were beautiful and just as I imagined.

The crowds of people,

horns honking,

the cold air

made it all fantastic

but nothing made it perfect

until this little girl got

to ride the "wagon" and be pulled by the horses.

Her Smile was priceless!

11 years of ~~begging~~ asking and had I got

to see it before this year I would have

missed seeing it through a

little girls eyes!

Elvis.....The crazy elf

2011-12-22T09:37:00.000-06:00

is still shaking things up around here.

I guess he is tired of waiting on snow just like we are because he made his own snowmen out of marshmallows in the cabinet one night.

Sometimes you just have to look at things from a different point of view!

Zip Zip Zip............LINE!!!

I heard that when he puts himself in the fridge it is a hint to the mom of the house that groceries are in short supply. I was not about to take any chances of being put on the naughty list so I tackled my least favorite thing to do and told him that if he hadn't wasted that bag of marshmallows writing on them with a sharpie they could have at least had a snack!

You have to love an elf named Elvis!

Christmas Nights and Holiday Lights

2011-12-22T09:08:00.000-06:00

was the theme of Caden's 4th grade Christmas program.

As we all know choir is not a competitive sport and because it is not American Idol then it is not one of his favorite things to do.

He could think of a million things he would rather do than have to get up and sing and smiling was certainly not present, but he did survive. It was a great program and I loved it despite the fact that he wouldn't even look at us for the fear that I might get a smile out of him.

Change is sometimes hard

2011-12-07T14:48:00.001-06:00

and it's my blog and I can cry if I want too!

Today as I was cutting out sugar cookies and listening to Christmas music I got to thinking about a different time in my life. A time when when things were old hat and a time when I was comfortable in my every day.

When I got to thinking today, I took a look around my house that isn't yet a home and I really started missing what used to be what reflected us as a family. I missed the warmth of my house that I made our home. I missed the visits from friends that would come and visit for hours. I missed just being me!

Today I wish that I could turn back time to see my porch decorated this way again

I wish I could turn back time and sit in my living room that was full of laughter, love and where everyone knew they were welcome when they walked in the door.

I wish that I could jump in the car with my kids and drive all over looking at Christmas lights and hear them say, "Daddy honk at the dancing Christmas Trees so they will shimmy for us."

I miss hearing my kids say that this over the top decorated house was the prettiest Christmas light display

E-V-E-R.

Today I miss a different time in my life.

I just wish that all of this would become old hat for me and that I could figure out how to make my much smaller place of residence feel like my home once did.

Today I miss what I used to know!

Elvis is in the house!

2011-12-06T20:32:00.001-06:00

This crazy ol' elf has always been very good at just sitting and watching as life happens.

Being good

is only

fun for

so long and then it is

time to shake things up...

Seriously this Elvis a.k.a. ELFIS

thought that toilet paper would be beautiful on my tree

and

thought it would be fun to

do a little

propelling from the

light in the entryway.

Wonder where he will end up tomorrow??

Elvis

is in the house and he is out of control!

^__^

It was a ROCKIN' good time

2011-12-03T08:13:00.001-06:00

Last Thursday night we attended Reece's 2nd grade Christmas program and it was fabulous!

This was the 2nd class event that we have been to since we have lived in Paola and I think the thing I love even more than watching my kids do what they do, is that everyone that is related to the children at these events come to support them. You better get there early if you want a seat because it is standing room only! To see the looks on the kids faces as they were scanning the crowd looking for their family was absolutely priceless!

Just another positive about raising your kids in small town USA!

It's Beginning to look like a Bressler Christmas

2011-12-02T10:44:00.001-06:00

Welcome to Our First Christmas in Paola

Come on in the door is always open

Our tradition is to always put up our Christmas tree the day after Thanksgiving. This year we had a little extra help from Aunt Chelsea and Maamma.

The joys of small town Christmas and I am sure that this will become part of our Christmas Tradition for as long as we live in Paola. Christmas at the town square complete with tree lighting, sleigh rides and of course...

A visit from Santa Claus himself.

Very bittersweet this year. My oldest one wanted no part of the magical experience, my middle one was thrilled and my youngest one was very unsure of the whole adventure at first.

Reece told Santa that he wanted a Nintendo DS ixl and Santa looked at him with a confused look, but assured him that he would see what he could do about that. By the end of Ellee's visit and telling him that she wanted a Hello Kitty bike and a Hello Kitty helmet she gave him a hug, but made it very clear that she was not going to give him a kiss. Santa laughed while Mommy nearly cried because I knew that I was going to have a Santa picture with one of my children missing. I don't think that I am ready for him to grow up just yet. I want the MAGIC of Christmas to live forever and ever!

Elvis the Elf managed to find us even in Paola, Kansas

I guess he figured that since the new favorite pass time around here is to fish in the pond behind our house, he would make himself at home doing a little fishing of his own. Goldfish anyone?

Merry Christmas from our home to yours and may God shine in all that you do!

One Little, Two Little, Three Little Thanksgiving Indians

2011-12-02T10:28:00.001-06:00

All crowded into a second grade classroom with every proud Mom, Dad, Grandma, and Grandpa in Paola, Kansas to see a Thanksgiving feast Mrs. Kreiser style.

Such a great way to spend the last day of school before Thanksgiving Vacation!

Fabulous Fall Fun

2011-11-30T21:28:00.001-06:00

I have decided that when you move there is a year of all things new. Some of these new things are fun and some of them hard but when you are a Bressler it just has become a part of our every day.

It has been fun to be close enough to some family that we can see them on occassion and we get to do fun things like go to the Pumpkin Patch together (Kasie, you can thank me later for not posting pictures of us doing the Pumpkinapolis 500).

Halloween was a little more difficult because there was no Trick or Treat Street in Paola and no Aunt Janet to visit and eat Bat Wings with when we got tired of walking around looking at all things haunted. We also learned that Trick or Treating was different because for as long as I can remember we Trick or Treated with our friends the Kopycinski's and we realized just how much we missed them.

I tried really hard to lighten the change of Halloween up for my kids and decided we would start a new tradition in the neighborhood where we live. We made halloween treats and BOO'd some of our neighbors. My kids thought it was a fabulous idea until they put the stuff on the door step, rang the doorbell and ran for their lives. At this point they thought it was the so rude to ding dong ditch your neighbors and went to school and told their friends it was us that did it. It took the wind right out of my sail, until I saw that it had caught on and other neighbors were being boo'd too all because we did something new and fun.

One of our greatest memories of this fall had to be a visit to the Great Wolf Lodge with our friends from Wichita. It was a surprise that I had to keep quiet until we pulled into the parking lot and that isn't easy for a Mama who had her good friend show up at the same restraunt we did to eat lunch before taking our kids to spend a couple of days together.

It's always a good time when friends from where we came from show up, but it is always hard to see them leave and to say our see ya laters.

So with one more season of new adventures out of the way we are now ready for Christmas and all of the new that comes with that.

Together Again

2011-09-26T10:32:00.000-05:00

On the soccer field these 2 best friends that live in different towns got to show their stuff on the same turf in the same jerseys once again!

Thanks Wichita Rojos for asking Caden to guest play with you for the weekend you were in Kansas City!

For the love of Band-Aids and forever

2011-09-19T14:59:00.001-05:00

This dirty face little girl is in love

with all things pink and that includes Hello Kitty Band-Aids

I find piles such as this in every room of my house.

Nothing goes unbandaged

NOTHING!!!!!

This is a phase that I am not really all that excited about. Those beautiful pink bandages stick to everything but skin. So I have to say, that I will not miss this phase or the fabulous pink Hello Kitty Band-Aids once they are gone.

These three on the other hand can stay forever!

When you sit forever and the fish don't bite

2011-09-14T11:40:00.000-05:00

When you sit for 5 minutes and the fish don't bite.....You skip rocks to pass the afternoon away!

A new beginning

2011-09-12T11:50:00.000-05:00

A lot has happened since the Christmas post on this blog, but I don't even know where to begin to bring it up to date so I will just start anew.

As many of you know the Bressler Bunch made a big change in our world; in July we moved from Wichita to Paola, Kansas. Phil took the job as the Principal of Paola High which meant that a new adventure was created for the rest of us. It has been a challenge as we moved from what we had come to know for the last 11 years as a family to something that was all new and very unfamiliar. It has been a scary ride with some really big hills to climb, but I think we have adjusted fairly well and things are starting to feel a little more like home here.

So here is an update on each member of the Bunch:

Phil: He has adjusted very well to his new role as head of a building and is loving what he is doing. From what I can gather in watching the interaction between he and the students at events, they have taken a liking to him and respect him and what he stands for. He has received a lot of really good feedback on things that he has done to improve the school already and when feedback is good it seems to make life here good as well. It has been a little bit of a challenge going from a school the size of Campus to a school with about 630 students in it but, as always, Phil is about the students and their well-being and he has risen to the challenge and takes it one day at a time.

Caden: Turned 10 shortly after we moved and has managed to make this move with little difficulty,or so it seems. The first few days we were here he would walk the dog around the neighborhood looking for kids to play with. He would come back home and give me a report and usually it was, "Mom, I didn't meet any kids but Stater made a new friend." It always broke my heart but I knew that it was just a matter of time. There was a glimmer of hope one day when he came home with a smile on his face and said to me "Mom, I didn'tmeet anyone, but there was a car load of boys that drove by and they all waved at me." He was smiling from ear to ear and was thrilled that at least he knew there were kids in the neighborhood. We soon found out that baseball is a very long season here and most of the boys his age were still playing baseball and staying out of the heat during the day as to not be worn out for practice and games. Baseball is serious business here!!!

One day shortly thereafter, our door bell rang and our house has never been the same. Two boys walked through the door like they had known Caden forever and went downstairs to play X-box and for the first time our house felt "normal"; there were kids here to play with, noise was everywhere, and friends were made. A couple of days later he was throwing batting practice for their 9U tournament team and we all know that when he is on red dirt, he is at home no matter where it is. Life was good! He started school with lots of friends and is loving every minute of school, the neighborhood, friends, and starting a new sport last week. For the first time Caden is playing flag football. We were shocked to find out that flag football is bigger here than tackle football for kids all the way though 6th grade. We are excited for a new adventure and seeing something new for him.

Reece: Reece had a much tougher time than Caden and, for the first time, I think we realized that our boys really are polar opposite personalities and kids. He kept telling me not to worry about him not having friends because he would make friends when he went to school. I am a mom and I did worry about it because I knew that it went much deeper than that for him. He does not have the out going personlity that his brother has, his athletic ability is different than that of his brother's, and while he tried to fight the tears there were just days that they couldn't be fought. He really missed his friends at home and he really missed all things familiar to him. He had to grow and stretch in ways that were sometimes hard to watch, but we all knew that he would conquer it and be better for it. He did just that!

He started school and after a rocky start and fear of the unknown, it is now old hat to him and he, too, has lots of friends. It is so much fun to see him at high school football games with "HIS" buddies and not his brother's buddies. He has his own group of friends and that is a good thing. He has a couple of friends that are his age in the neighborhood and that makes life great!!! Reece is also playing flag football (for the second year in a row) and is loving every minute it and once again is the beast of the team. It doesn't seem to bother him that he towers over every kid and my hope is that it never does.

Ellee: Well Fancy Ellee is just that: "Fancy." She is changing, growing, and becoming more girlie every day. She has the athletic ability of her older brother and the imagination of her younger brother and that makes her the perfect mix of the two. She did not like being left behind when they went off to school and she does not like it when they leave for school and she is still sleeping. She is always happy when they walk in the door after school and she is always willing to "help" them with their homework. She has taken a love for books and will pick up a book and make up her own story. It is fun to just sit in the other room and listen and it is a reminder that she is growing before our eyes and before we know it she too, will be hopping on a bike and headed to school. *sigh*

Me: Well I have good days and I have bad days. Living in a small town again is an adjustment for me and being the "PRINCIPAL'S" wife is an adjustment too. When we decided to make this move I stepped into very unfamiliar territory. I had never moved my family before and left behind everything we knew and everyone that had been a part of who we were for 11 years. As a wife you worry about your husband and a new job. You know that when they are in a position such as being in charge that sometimes there is bad that comes with the good and how in the world was I ever going to handle the negative that comes with his position in a small town where everyone knows everything and nothing is private? How was I going to take care of 3 kids needs all by myself most nights because with this job we get to see him Sunday? There were so many things that I worried about and still do worry about and that is just with him, that didn't even include the kids. As a mother you worry about everything from will they be outsiders to letting them ride their bikes. Emotions with kids are a constant roller coaster because while you want them spread their wings and fly at the same time you want to hold on tight put them under your wings and never let them go. I worried, and still do, about me because I left a group of moms and friends that were the sisters I got to pick myself. They saw me through many personal struggles, life, kids, let me bounce things off of them before I faced any situation head on, and were there for me no matter what. If I was in a bad mood they understood that, if I just felt like crying they cried with me, if I wanted to crawl in hole and hide from the world they hid with me. If I was in a good mood they enjoyed it with me, they shopped with me, tried on clothes with me, went swimming suit shopping with me (which is every girl's nightmare, no matter what size you are). I miss them all every day of my life and somedays I pray that they will ring my doorbell and be standing there saying it is going to be ok. I have been so blessed that so many of them have come to see us and stay with us, they meet me in Emporia for lunch and when my phone rings and it is one of them checking to see how I am doing that day, my heart smiles.

Everyone in this town has been over the top nice to us. They stop to meet us, they have written great articles in the paper about us, they talk to us when we are out walking and I know that friendships don't just happen overnight. Friendships are grown, and over time, become a great part of your life. That for me has been the hardest because everywhere I go, I hear the dreaded words "that is the new principal's wife." Sometimes I think they think that the things coming out of the side of my head are horns instead of ears. I do have a name and I am not just the principal's wife. I just smile and keep walking because I know that just comes with the territory and it is what it is but my heart on the inside is crying to go home to familiar faces and people that know my name and love me whether I am wearing sweat pants or high heels.

I know that the only thing certain in this life is change and with change, there are good things and bad things. I am thankful for the good and know that the bad will all one day fade away. I am blessed with a beautiful, healthy and happy family and God has been so good to provide, no matter what the need and I have no doubt that he will put some amazing friends in my life here, just as He did in Wichita. I know those girls there are my forever friends and no matter the distance, they are the sisters I got to pick myself and have my back no matter what.

So with every new beginning there is a tomorrow and today I thank God that HE is already there!!!

From Thanksgiving to Christmas 2010

2011-01-15T12:08:00.034-06:00

Welcome back Elvis! It's so good to see you again.

There is never a lack of Christmas Trees to Decorate in our house

I tried really hard not to panic when I came home from shopping to see my boys on the roof.

Cookie Dough in great supply this time of year and I have plenty of beater lickers!

Melting Snowmen for school Christmas parties.........They were a huge hit!

Mom did lots of Christmas baking this year so that other people didn't have too!

Had lots of Elves to help!

Caden's First School Christmas Program and of course he did amazing!

Aunt Janet turned 41 and we hosted a party to help her celebrate!

Christmas Eve always means Christmas Jammies

And Hanging of their ornaments

Elvis watched as my children took part in our Christmas Eve traditions and prepared for his last flight home to the North Pole.

Christmas light tour

We must not forget the Reindeer and I promise they didn't go hungry at our house!

We have a gas fireplace with no Chimney so Santa has a key!

Santa was good to the kids this year. I must declare I strongly dislike that my kids are getting bigger and their gifts are getting smaller and more expensive. I don't like not having a living room full of toys when we wake up because all they want are electronic gadgets.

Why can't they just stay little forever?

We had the best Christmas Ever and we hope that you did too!

One Life To Live and she has lived it to the fullest!

2010-11-30T09:21:00.023-06:00

She was born a century ago

She wouldn't wish lonesome on anyone!

Grandma,

Your life has been an amazing book of unconditional love, hard times, great times, travels, and heartache and the stories you have told to all of us in the past will forever be unmatched. You will never know to what depth you have impacted the lives of so many of us and I hope that your legacy will live on forever.

I know your days on this earth are coming to an end and I know you know where you are going and you are more than ready to walk the streets of gold with with your Maker. It was so very hard to see how fast you are failing and it broke my heart so many times when you thought I was Velda because I know you have missed her for many, many years and can't wait to see that daughter of yours who was taken from you far too soon. Please give her a hug for me and my mama too! We all have so many amazing memories, from you doing gymnastics with the girls in the grass, wood tag with all of our friends, hours putting puzzles together, playing board games, chocolate cake and blarney stones and so many more and they will live in our hearts forever.

In your 100 hundred years of life you have done more things and seen more places than most of us would see if we lived to be 200 and I can't imagine the lonesome you feel in your heart. I know you wouldn't wish it on anyone. I don't know why God has chosen to leave you here but Mama says your work on earth is not done. So Grandma, if you complete God's mission that he has for your life before I see you again, please know I love you, I appreciate the life lessons you have taught, and I will one day see you on the other side.

All my love and then some! XOXO

Scary Spooks 3

2010-11-03T13:02:00.009-05:00

So really they weren't so scary at all!

Just another Ordinary Day

2010-10-22T17:07:00.015-05:00

Really it's not an ordinary day at all.

It's a Friday and Dad is home.

One begged and learned how to mow.

Cassie is home and living under the blanket curled up on the couch just as she should be.

Reece is doing what all great brothers do (figured out how to give his sister a ride on his big wheel and they call themselves a big wheel gang).

Caden is working on baseball, because that's what Caden does.

Gears, gears, gears, are dumped all over the living room floor and creations are being built.

And I'm just glad I don't get to come and sit a spell but get to stay for a lifetime.

A part of Grandpa Bob has landed...

2010-09-13T14:44:00.028-05:00

close enough for my kids to sit in it.

As I was sitting at Janet's yesterday waiting for her to arrive with something that belonged to her Daddy and watching my kids play in the backyard, I thought to myself, I wonder how different our Sunday afternoons would be if God hadn't needed Grandpa Bob so soon?

When she finally pulled up and my kids were just as excited to see Aunt Janet as they were to see inside this

Budget truck,I wondered if he was laughing at us from Heaven as Phil, Janet and Jim discussed how in the world they were going to get it out of that truck.

I wonder if he wished they would hurry up, so these three kids could sit in it?

I wondered if he ever thought that it would mean the world to his daughter-in-law to see my kids be able to see a part of who he was?

I wanted to ask so badly but didn't have the courage. I wanted to ask Jim (one of Grandpa Bob's good friends) if he ever thinks how different life would be if Bob was still around.

The wondering soon stopped because there was a plane to be unloaded.

The wings came out first

Then we recruited Darrin Ross from St. Francis which also made me wonder if Grandpa Bob was laughing because here it is, his plane which started out in Northwest Kansas Sunday morning was now in Wichita, Kansas being carried off of a Budget truck by one of his best friends, who moved to Wichita from Bird City and his son and one of his best friends who knew Jim and Janet from Saint Francis and now lives in Wichita. I wonder if he thought it was crazy that here we were on a Sunday afternoon messing with one of his planes and it was a Sunday afternoon when he decided to make his last flight that took him to his forever home.

Janet entered the cockpit and kept the brake on while these 3 men guided her down the make shift runway.

Where she landed safely

and I'm sure she was thrilled that they did not drop her and the plane off of those planks.

Grandpa Bob's plane has a new temporary home in Aunt Janet's garage, but hopefully soon she will have it all restored and she will be the one that will fly my kids around on Sunday afternoons while Grandpa smiles at them from above.

As I looked at this man through the lens of my camera holding his baby girl, I had to wonder if he ever thought while he was unloading this plane what it would be like if life were different. I didn't have to ask him because I already knew the answer.

I have to wonder while these kids were dreaming of flying in this plane someday with Aunt Janet, will they ever know how much they would have been loved by their Grandpa?

I have to wonder, will either one of them someday follow in his footsteps and learn to fly too?

I have to wonder if Grandpa Bob's is smiling down from above and if he will wave at them someday as they nearly touch the sky!

A part of Grandpa Bob has landed and part of him lives in our hearts and will for generations!

We sure do miss you Grandpa Bob!

It was...

2010-09-09T22:14:00.007-05:00

Made for her with love by a grandma that isn't even hers. It became her very best friend almost instantly!

It found it's way in the bathtub

It napped everywhere she napped....Even in front of the front door!

She never let it get too far out of reach!

And always covered her head when she would fall asleep.

We lost her best friend over the weekend in Kansas City at the Great Wolf Lodge and it has been devastating for both of us. She feel like she lost her best friend and I feel like a part of her is missing. I only knew her with this filthy lovie attached to her hand and I miss that for her.

She found her Mr. Monkey yesterday to help her get through last night but that is all he was good for. One night! Tonight she is struggling because she knows her Best Friend is still gone and I know that it's never coming back.

It was her very best friend and she tried so hard to take good care of it.

What I would give for more pictures of a little girl and her lovie because clearly I didn't take enough. She hasn't had a bottle for over 5 months now and I don't have one single picture of her and her best friend as a little lady! Oh how it makes me sad!

Then there was 1

2010-08-26T12:49:00.015-05:00

Once upon a Summer there were 3 Bressler Children.

Then this one

was off to 3rd Grade

and

this one

was off to 1st grade

and

Then there was 1

One little girl that entered the world and changed our hearts forever.

One little girl that made Marshmallows out of her brothers..

One little girl with the bluest of eyes.

One little girl who is strong willed and independent.

One little girl who has a laugh that will melt the coldest of hearts.

One little girl who would rather be dirty than clean.

One little girl who sure is lonesome without her brothers at home.

One little girl who has changed this Mama of little boys forever.

One little girl ready for her own adventures all by her big girl self.

Then there was 1!

Change isn't always fun

2010-08-21T14:50:00.016-05:00

and this week has been less than fun for this little boy.

We decided that some fun needed to happen for him on Friday so with a little bit of help from his good friend Tucker we put a few smiles on his face.

And for a moment in time he was the happiest kid on the planet.

Reece,

You make me smile, you make me laugh, you make me cry, and you break my heart. I hate that you have to struggle so hard and that this week of school has been less than fun for you. Hang in there my Reecester Piecer you are gonna make it and together we are going to take it on and make it the best school year ever.

Thanks for being the bravest kid I know!

I love you to the moon and back, to infinity and beyond, and forever and ever!

Love,

Your Mommy

When did my babies turn into boys?

2010-08-18T07:35:00.014-05:00

And so it begins!

Another year of school is underway and yesterday was a tough day to get through. I keep thinking that every year it's going to be easier on the first day of school but for some reason it always seems to be the opposite. It just gets harder and I dislike it more with each passing year.

We managed to make it up, breakfast eaten, teeth brushed and dressed with 30 minutes to kill before we had to leave for school. The boys were nervous but excited and I was happy for them but sad for Ellee and I because I knew it was going to be a lonesome day.

He is no longer a baby and hardly even a little boy but nearly a young man and as I took this picture, I wondered when did this happen? 3rd grade seemed so far away a few years ago but we are now living what use to be the future and how I really wish I could turn back time and live in the past.

And this one, wasn't he just at home with me all day everyday yesterday? I remember his first day of preschool when I could hear him crying for me all the way down the hall screaming "don't leave me mama, don't leave me" and now he is in first grade and ready to take it on like he's been doing it forever. When did this baby of mine turn into a boy ready to conquer it like a champ?

No longer is he on the same hall that he has always been on since he started school but now on the "upper class" hall. When did he decided that taking pictures of him by his classroom door was uncool? When did he get to big to give me a hug and tell me that he loves me? When did this happen?

Oh Reece, you look so grown up standing there by your first grade door. I am so glad that you still don't mind me taking pictures of you and I'm glad that you still give me a hug and tell me you love me without wondering who is around to hear. You have come so far since that first day of preschool!!

And this Bean walks around that school like she owns the place where everyone knows her by name and wants to carry her around. She loves to wonder the halls and she knows exactly where her brothers are and how to get to them.

Oh Please El Bean don't you grow any faster because the day I have to leave you will surely be a bigger disaster.

It's a good thing all the teachers know me by now because they all know that on the first day of school I will be the one walking the halls dropping off my babies with tears streaming down my cheeks. Walking away knowing that they will spend more time at that school with people who could never love them like I do is one of the hardest things I have to do as their mama and I don't like it....I don't like it not one little bit.

When did my babies turn into boys?

9 years and halfway there!

2010-07-23T18:42:00.005-05:00

9 years ago today they told me I was now the Mommy of a beautiful baby boy.

9 years ago today I remember looking at you and thinking to myself I don't know how to be a Mommy, but I guess him and I are going to figure this thing out together.

9 years ago today they placed this 7 lb 13 oz boy in my arms and I realized at that very moment that my life would never be the same.

9 years ago today they placed you in my arms and you slipped right into my heart.

9 years ago today I never dreamed it would go by so fast.
9 Years ago today I never dreamed that the little feet I loved to look at would soon be wearing baseball cleats and walking out the door with a bat bag bigger than he was filled to so full the zipper would hardly close.

9 Years ago today I never dreamed that I would be the proudest Mom on the planet when you take your place on the mound, behind the plate or in the field.

9 Years ago today I never dreamed that I would be watching my little boy live out his childhood dreams and watching them all come true for him.

9 Years ago today I never dreamed that your little baby feet would be taking you places where you no longer walked beside me and held my hand but walked in front of me yelling "Mom I'm pitching tonight" and "Mom did you see that strike out to pitch a no hitter".

These are the days I would never dream of missing!

9 Years ago today we welcomed you with open arms and today I realized for the first time that we are half way to the day when you will walk out of my door to a world that is bigger than you and I can ever imagine. I can't wait to see where your road takes you but until that day comes I sure hope the next 9 years go slower than the first and that you always know no matter where you go or what you do I will always be your biggest fan.

I love you to the moon, to infinity and beyond, forever and ever!

Now back to our regular scheduled long overdue vacation blogging

2010-07-16T07:37:00.012-05:00

Day 2

We left Rochester at 5:30 Saturday morning and headed for the Wisconsin Dells where we would spend the next week.

It really wouldn't be a complete trip to Wisconisn if we didn't get to see Uncle Bro play basketball. Our first stop a 3 v 3 tournament.

We learned that Uncle Bro still takes this sport just as serious as he did in college!

The boys were in Heaven getting to spend sometime playing basketball with one of the people they look up to the most I am sure he loved playing basketball with 2 nephews that did a good job of getting on his nerves during vacation.

Caden paid his money and got in the 3 point shooting contest and Pa, as always was one of his biggest fans.

We couldn't check into our Condo at Green Mountain Village until Sunday so we spent the night at the Ho-Chunk Casino and Hotel where they boys couldn't wait to go swimming and for the most part had the pool all to themselves.

Maama and Pa enjoyed watching and Ellee enjoyed every minute with her favorite person in the world.

And this is a face we have come to know and grown to love. She is the girl who puts up with my brother, follows him around to most of his basketball tournament and pretty much just fits perfectly into just about every part of his life. Chelsea we sure do love ya and we appreciate you taking such good care of bro.

Day 2 was complete, basketball tournament didn't turn out as Bro would have liked it too, but as always it was fun for us to watch him play and talk to Caden about the trips we made to watch him play college ball

My toughest day as a Mom

2010-07-08T19:59:00.002-05:00

Today has been a bad day.

Woke up with a horrible headache, my back hurts worse today than it ever has, my house is driving me crazy, my yard is making me nuts, Ellee has learned how to open every drawer, door, lid, and if she can't reach it off of the counter she is now strong enough to move the chairs in the kitchen to get anything she thinks she needs.

Today has been a bad day.

I have spent the majority of the last 2 days yelling at my kids for every move they made and today my Reece put things into perspective for me. It was the toughest thing I think I have ever heard come out of the mouths of my babes and it made me realize that now is not the time for a spotless house, it's not the time to worry about my yard, it's not the time to care about the garage I can't park in because it is full of stuff that hasn't been put away it is the time to just let it go and be the Mom that God wants me to be. When the words "don't you want me anymore mommy" came out of his mouth I felt like I had been stabbed in the heart a million times over and that pain hasn't stopped hours later. I asked him why he would ever say such a thing and he said, because you just yell at me, you are never proud of me, you are only proud of Caden and it makes me think that you don't want me anymore. I have never in my life felt so awful and if ever I wanted to turn back time the time was right then. How could I have let him feel this way, how could I have put so many things that were not important in front of the feelings of my child?

So this afternoon I cried lots of tears, hugged a little boy that sat on my lap for an hour, dried the eyes of Caden and Ellee and reassured all of them that they were the most important people in my life and I never wanted any of them to ever feel like they were not wanted. I told them I was not perfect, I told them that I would try harder and today was the day I realized that one day I would have a clean house from top to bottom, I would have a yard that was manicured neatly, I would have a garage that I could park in and wasn't covered in ride on toys, baseball equipment, and tools but today was not the day and tomorrow wouldn't be either. It will all be there when I get to it but from now on we were going to make sure that I remember not what is important but who is important.

Today started out really bad but I wouldn't trade it for anything because I learned a lot today about myself, about my kids, about their hearts, and about the MOST IMPORTANT parts of life.

Today I am thankful and blessed with 3 amazing children.

Dear Lord,
Today I pray that you will help me to be the Mom that you called me to be. I pray that everyday you show me the little things in the lives of my children that I should be jumping for joy over. I pray that you will let me see the drawings in the dust as artwork, the stain on carpet as a reminder of little people that grow up, fingerprints on my front door as fingerprints of God and be thankful for them instead of frustrated that they are there. I pray that when people show up at my house that I never apologize for the shape my house is in but to tell them how blessed I am to be the Mommy of 3 children and invite them to sit down among the toys and enjoy our life with us. Dear Lord and as painful as it is please don't let that feeling that I had today fade away no matter how bad it hurts because I know that I know that I know that I was called to be a Mommy and I want to be the best at it that I can be.

In your name I pray,
Trasie AKA Caden, Reece and Ellee's Mommy

We interrupt this family vacation blogging for a post to our dad!

2010-07-08T10:32:00.006-05:00

Dear Dad,
Thank you for teaching me baseball and for being the best dad in the world.

Love,
Caden

Daddy,
I am not a princess but if I was I would tell everyone that my Prince already came and I call him daddy and hope that they could translate my language to English.

Love,
Ellee Bean

Dear Dad,
Thanks for being the best dad in the world and I really miss you when you go to work. Someday can you let me bring my scooter to work with you?

Love,
Reece

Are we there yet?

2010-07-07T22:59:00.002-05:00

Our first day took us to Rochester, Minnesota where Uncle Bro and Aunt Chelsea call home.

We loaded up in the Tahoe with the 2 boys in the back, Mamma, Ellee and I in the middle seat, with Pa and Phil sitting in the front and taking turns at the wheel.

Before we ever left Wichita the dreaded words "how much longer?" came out of Reece's mouth. We all laughed and said, "it's gonna be a long trip". A long trip it was, with many stops, for bathroom breaks, drinks, leg stretches, diaper changes and we were really beginning to wonder with 30 miles to go if we were indeed ever going to get there.

We pulled into Rochester and met Bro and Chels at Culvers. What is a trip to the north without several stops at Culvers for Butter Burgers and Flavor of the day frozen custard?.

We were then off for a night at Uncle Bro's house. Reece finally got to celebrate his 6th Birthday with a cake. Poor kid, every year it seems like we have to put it off for some reason or another and this year was absolutely no different. 2 weeks late but by golly we hauled that cake all the way to Minnesota so he could have birthday cake with Uncle Bro.

We then called it a day because Uncle Bro was playing in a 3 V 3 basketball tournament the next day in the Dells and told us we needed to be on the road by 5:30 a.m. So off to bed we went so that we would be ready to face the early morning back in the car for the last leg before we reached our destination....THE WISCONSIN DELLS!

Thanks Bro and Chels for letting us invade your space. You have a beautiful home and the only thing that would make it more perfect is if you weren't so darn far away. We love you both!!

Please stay tuned for more on the Bressler/Reece Family Grand Adventure!

Dreamin' With Eyes Wide Open

2010-06-21T17:46:00.010-05:00

Is this Heaven?
No, It's Iowa.

Iowa? I could have sworn it was Heaven.

Is there a Heaven?

Oh Yeah. It's a place where dreams come true.

Maybe this is Heaven.

Go the distance!

I wish I had your passion

My heart skipped a beat yesterday while watching the three of you dream with your eyes wide open. I hope that you build all of your dreams and I pray that God allows me to live long enough to see them.

Fathers Day 2010 Dyersville, Iowa

1st and 3rd Grade Here We Come....Ready or Not

2010-05-30T23:55:00.011-05:00

Reece is now a first grader!!

What a year this has been for Reece and I now know what it means to have a teacher who teaches with her whole heart.
Mrs. Fager,
You will never know how thankful we are for not only teaching Reece but for loving him as much as we do. Thank you so much for making sure that all of his needs were met and for making sure that he was ready for first grade no matter what it took. We knew after Caden had you that you were amazing, but what we didn't know is the extra mile you will go and the love you put into it to make sure that you have touched a child's life.

Once in awhile right in the middle of an ordinary life a teacher comes along and makes it extraordinary.

Reece and his morning 5th Grade Buddy

Reece and his afternoon 4th Grade Buddy Cody

Mrs. Yorgenson is the Chief Indian at Oatville Elementary

Miss Rollow,

We wish you many happy years of retirement. Thank you so much for playing such an important role in Caden's first grade year. You will be missed and we hope that your move to Grand Lake is full of Grand Adventures.

All of those tears paid off and the Medal was received to prove it!

Mrs. Carpenter,

Thank you so much for being the most amazing and fun 2nd grade teacher on the planet. Thank you for pushing Caden when he didn't want to be pushed and for understanding his competitive streak. He had a great year with you and I appreciate you taking him under your wing and making sure that his year was a huge success.

SCHOOLS OUT FOR SUMMER and we couldn't be more ready for new and fun adventures!

Then there were 5

2010-05-30T23:25:00.006-05:00

5 very ~~ugly~~ cute and starving baby birds now call our mailbox home!

Our Mailbox is all a buzz chirping

2010-05-24T18:04:00.006-05:00

3 of our baby birds hatched sometime today and they are so ugly they're cute. Cute as ~~bugs~~ birds.

We are hoping that by tomorrow we will will have 5 babies to tell you about!

I have been your Mommy

2010-05-21T08:31:00.004-05:00

For 6 years today.

You entered this world 6 years ago today and I remember that day like it was yesterday. You were beautiful, perfect, healthy, and you were my gift from God and I am so thankful everyday that of all of the Mama's in the world he chose me to be yours.

6 Years ago today.

I have learned a lot about life this year and watching you grow. I have learned that you have a heart that is bigger than any ocean and that when someone needs a friend you are right there to include them and it doesn't matter if it's a girl, if they are years younger than you or older than you. You are always there making sure that no one is left out. I have learned that you are wise beyond your years and when someone tells you can't or you won't you figure out away to say I can and I will and surprise us all. I have learned that sometimes I need to just stop and watch because so many of these moments are ones I don't want to miss or forget. I have learned that it is never easy when someone tells you that your child is not where he should be in school and changes have to be made and that the pain in my heart was almost more than I could bare. I have learned that when they put you in all day kindergarten I then knew why I didn't vote for all day kindergarten and it was because I missed you so much when you went back in the afternoon. I learned that I missed your random I love you Mommy during a commercial break of Spongebob Squarepants being screamed at me from my bedroom where you watch TV everyday. I learned that I missed your hugs that came out of no where and the crazy conversations we had about how things worked and why they worked that way. I learned that sometimes I have to let go so that you can grow even though I just want to hold on that much tighter. I learned that no matter how big you get, and no matter how old you are you are always going to be my Reecer Piecer and I will always be your Mommy.

6 Years ago today

My second child was born.

6 Years ago today

I grew another heart and you filled it right up.

6 years ago today

Reece Kapp Bressler made me a Mommy for the second time and it was a gift I will treasure for a lifetime!

6 years ago today!

Happy Birthday Bubbie!

A different Smile!

2010-05-18T08:33:00.002-05:00

Mama, my smiles has holes in it!

Reece lost his first tooth on Mother's Day and lost his second one the very next day!

Every Mama wants the same thing for her babies...

2010-05-17T15:40:00.012-05:00

A place that is dry, warm, safe, and a place where they can call home while they are learning to spread their wings and preparing to take flight on their own.

A Mama Sparrow has taken up residence in our mailbox and she has decided that it is the perfect place to raise her babies and to teach them how to spread their wings.

So as the neighborhood waits for our baby birdies to take their first chirp we will no longer be taking mail in our mailbox until further notice!

Tylenol Please!

2010-05-17T15:25:00.010-05:00

The noise level in our house just got. . . L-O-U-D-E-R!!

A Story about a girl

2010-04-21T09:36:00.012-05:00

My girl...

Her hair is officially long enough to be put in a ponytail. I need lots of practice but have assured her that by the time she starts school I will have it mastered.

She loves McDonald's

She is growing way to fast and more stubborn than her brothers ever thought about being.

She went for her first dental visit the other day and since I am the mother of the year I let her go WALKING to the back with her bottle hanging between her teeth while she was holding on for dear life to her lovie with both hands. The Dentist looked at me and let me know that she has security issues. I looked at him and said, "nope she's just the third child and security has nothing to do with it." He politely told me that she needed to loose the bottle and I assured him she wouldn't be taking it to Kindergarten. He then asked me if I let her take it to bed and I had decided that he had enough shock from me for one day so I said, "Of course not, I would never let her do that. We brush her teeth after her bath and then she goes to bed." Wonder if he believed me? Probably not!

My girl does not have security issues, she just knows what she likes and her lovie and her bottle are her two favorite things and right now I choose not to fix what isn't broken.

She isn't picky about when and where she sleeps. If under my desk on the hard floor is where she decides to crash, then so be it.

If the dining room floor works for her....Who am I to say No?

I did draw a line when she fell asleep at the bottom of the stairs so I picked her up put her in her bed, and shut the door.

Of course, she didn't stay asleep, got out of her bed, opened her door, slid down the stairs on her belly and decided she would try a different spot on the same hard tile floor.

So in front of the door to the garage is where she took her nap that day!

When you have a girl who climbed out of her crib and you had no choice but to move her to a big girl bed, and you have one who is tall enough to open her bedroom door, and she refuses to let you rock her to sleep, you just chalk it up to she is the 3rd child and move on.

Sometimes she is a little too big for her ~~britches~~ shoes but

someday soon enough she will be able to wear my shoes and it will happen faster than I can blink. Until then I will just let her wear her crooked ponytails, eat her McDonald's french fries, carry around her bottle between her teeth, her lovie in both hands, and let her sleep wherever she gosh darn pleases during nap time.

She is the third child, very independent, stubborn as a mule, adorable in every way, and spoiled beyond belief and I wouldn't have her any other way! She is perfect and wonderfully made and she is mine to love and raise!

I really am far from being the mother of the year and have never claimed to know all there is to know about being a mother. I do my best with a whole lot of praying and frustration and am very thankful that I am never given more than I can handle at any given moment.

This is the story of my girl and someday she will have her own story to write about raising children and my only hope is that she does it better than I did and that she will cry through the tough times, smile through all of the small things, laugh at herself when she is criticized, and love them enough that she would give her life for any of them.

This is the story of my girl and my life raising a girl!

A Risen Savior, family, and friends...

2010-04-04T21:05:00.018-05:00

Makes for one of the best Easters ever!

The kids were super excited about the Easter Bunny and decided that 5:00 would be a great time to wake up after not going to bed until after midnight. Mom didn't think that was a good time, so I told them to go back to bed. After a visit to my room every 30 minutes until 7:00 I finally said, OK lets go see what he brought.

He didn't disappoint. They boys both got fancy new bat bags, Ellee got sand toys and bubbles, and he brought beach towels for our vacation this summer.

We went to church this morning, the boys played in the bell choir, we enjoyed a fabulous service, then it was off to Aunt Janet's for Brunch.

She fixed some amazing stuff, hid Easter eggs for several hunts and she doesn't mess around with making it simple to find eggs. She even had a golden egg with $10.00 in it. Who wouldn't love an Aunt like that?

I will be so sad when my oldest one finds hunting eggs to0 childish. I know it's coming faster than I want it to.
This one was extremly exhausted from too little sleep and found hunting easter eggs this year made you whine a lot when your brother found one and you didn't.

These amazing people joined us for Brunch. Jim and Cindy Leach are from Bird City too. Jim was best friends with Grandpa Bob his whole life and Cynthia is named after his lovely wife Cindy. They live here in Wichita and own Jim and Cindy's Tours and didn't waste any time at all spoiling my kids. They brought each one of them Easter baskets filled with fun candy, cookies, and rabbits and they certainly won my kids' hearts right away. Thanks Jim and Cindy! It was so nice to finally meet you and please don't be strangers!

We hope that you all had a very Happy Easter and made memories worth remembering with the ones that you love this Easter.

He is Risen! He is Risen indeed!

When the boys are coloring Easter eggs...

2010-04-03T21:49:00.014-05:00

The baby will play....

In the POWDERED SUGAR she got out of the cabinet that she is not supposed to be in!

A face that a Mama can't help but love!

Sittin' On Top Of The World

2010-03-29T15:40:00.005-05:00

Sometimes, I wish I could see the future. Will they be as tall as Daddy? Will they always have their fun personalities? Will Caden always look at sports the way he does today? Will Reece always be mechanically curious about everything? Will Ellee always be Daddy's little girl? Will the two boys always protect her? Will they always be as close as they are today?

Sometimes I wish I could see the future and other days I'm just glad I just get to experience it a little bit at a time.

I'm a big girl now!

2010-03-19T13:38:00.005-05:00

Cribs are a thing of the past for me. I am moving on up and am now the proud owner of my very own full size bed.

Night number one was a little rough because it was new and a little scary.

By nap time today I had it all figured out!

I'm a "BIG" girl now and don't worry about my Mommy, she is ok with me making the move!

Proof that...

2010-03-11T09:39:00.006-06:00

spring is knocking on the door

and at 3:30 today spring break begins and I couldn't be more excited about it! We don't have any huge plans but the weather is suppose to be remarkable and you can bet we will be out enjoying every minute we can get. Days spent with friends, days spent getting really dirty, sleep overs, picking kids up from sleep overs or dropping them off because the idea sounded fabulous until it was time to actually call it a night, trips to the park, the river...Oh it's gonna be a great week and I can't wait!

In the beginning Pa Created the Dinosaur

2010-03-02T07:18:00.026-06:00

Caden's class has been studying dinosaurs and with this, they had to invent a dinosaur over the weekend.

We recruited Pa and the creation of one very fabulous Ski-Jump-asaurus was invented.

First a skeleton must be constructed.

His skin must then be applied.

We also had to recruit Iya for this project.

OH! and El too!

I think about now Pa was really wishing that he would have just colored a dinosaur!

Iya soon had to get her hands dirty too!

Then the dinosaur was tired of holding his neck up so we had to help him by tying him to the dining room light

He truly is an egg-head!

The tip of his tail is constructed out of a cake decorating tip!

All 84 Olympic countries are represented on the body of this dinosaur. Just don't ask us which flag is for which country.

Every Ski-Jump-asaurus must have a United States of America ski jumper.

This is a GOLD medal Dinosaur if ever there was one.

Thanks Pa and Iya for coming up this weekend and helping Caden with his project. You should have seen the look on his face when he walked into that room with the most awesome dinosaur on the planet.

Note: Pa is NOT for hire!

YUM!

2010-02-19T14:41:00.009-06:00

Paddywhack Delivery coming right up!

She's so lucky

2010-02-17T09:39:00.015-06:00

To have

These 2 brothers

That would

Give her the moon, if they could figure out how to do it!

She's so lucky

To have 2 brothers

That will

Protect her for life!!

Random Reece Ramblings

2010-02-04T18:45:00.003-06:00

Reece: Mommy I measured me on that thing in the bathroom. I'm 656 Mommy!

Mommy: (Trying not to laugh) You are 656 huh?

Reece: Yep that means I'm tall Mommy. I am getting really tall Mommy!

Mommy: (Thinking) DANG! I must be a giant then! All this time I thought I was just overweight!

Thanks Reece for setting me straight one what exactly that thing measures in the bathroom!

I love you!

Today...

2010-02-01T08:33:00.008-06:00

Is the start of something new.

Today...

I'm not sure that I am going to like it.

Today...

Is the day that the random sound of "I love you Mama" won't happen in the afternoons.

Today...

Is the day that Ellee doesn't have to wake up early from a nap because her brother was too loud.

Today...

Is the day that I will cry a little bit, smile a little bit, wish a little bit, pray a little bit and know that we are doing what is best for a little boy who is struggling in school.

Today...

Is the day that I am and forever will be thankful for the amazing school that my children attend. I am so thankful for teachers who love my kids, who understand their needs, and want them to be successful.

Today...

Is going to be a hard day when I have to take my little boy back to school at 12:50 after having lunch with me.

Today....

Is a new adventure for both of us and it's gonna be alright! At least that is what I am telling myself!

Reece,

I will miss you today and every afternoon when you go back to school. I will miss the Mommy I need this, Mommy I need that. I will miss hearing you yell at me while your sister is sleeping "I love you Mommy". I will miss the conversations that we have about random things. I will miss your smile, your voice, your laugh when you aren't here in the afternoons but I will be waiting for you to come home to tell me all about your new friends, your afternoon and your first day of school!

I love you to the moon and back, forever and ever, to infinity and beyond!

Proof Girls Don't have Cooties

2010-01-28T22:12:00.005-06:00

and Sqauare Dancing is cool!!!!

OK! So maybe cool is stretching it a little bit too far, but it is proof that he did actually square dance at the Oatville Elementary Chuckwagon Supper.

35 and It's all good!!!

2010-01-20T08:14:00.013-06:00

I'm 35 today...

And I still love frosted trees in January!

Little Boys who wear mismatched clothes and new camo boots with shorts in the dead of winter to get the mail!

Brothers who love their sister and protect her from all things bad!

No School days spent at cool bouncy places!

The fact that I can still make it to the top of the inflatables even if it takes 10 minutes!!!

Boys who love their Mama!

And My Husband's Homemade Pizza!

Today I am 35, married and have 3 beautiful and amazing children. While 35 is a little scary because 40 is starring me in the face, I choose today to cherish every moment, celebrate every milestone and live life everyday!

Today I am 35 years old and It's all good....It's all good!!!

Americans or Squirrels?

2010-01-12T17:52:00.003-06:00

We have become fans of the TV game show Cash Cab and if you haven't watched you should! Phil has created his own version of Cash Cab, but calls it Cash Car or Cash Tahoe depending on which car he is driving with the kids.

He asks questions and when they get questions right he increases fake money amounts and if they get 3 strikes he tells them they have to get out and walk. They don't know if he is serious or not so Reece always has to ask, "Mom will Dad really make us get out and walk?" I just laugh and say of course not. If I am riding in the car then they get to use me for help and sometimes I know the answers and sometimes I don't and sometimes I give them the right answer and they think I'm wrong and go with their own answer. So it's kind of fun and it makes for lots of laughs!

So the other day we are playing Cash Tahoe and Phil asks the question "If you were born in Japan you would be Japanese so what are you if you are born in America? Without any hesitation at all, Reece blurts out SQUIRREL! We all busted into laughter and Phil and I were still laughing about it way into the night when we were talking about the kids.

I love life according to Reece!!

How do you know?

2010-01-05T04:53:00.007-06:00

It's 4:30 a.m. and I am wide awake. I've been up nearly all night with a mind that won't shut off.

You see I have this son who loves sports and his basketball team fell apart this year. How do I know that we did the right thing by putting him on a team that we knew nothing about? We don't know the coaches, we only know one other player, and once again I see frustration all over his face when he is out there. How do I keep him from being discouraged? How do I keep him from frustration? How do I teach him to stop being so hard on himself?

How do you know that as a parent you are doing the right things with your children?

You see I have this son who is 5 and is having a hard time figuring out where he belongs. He wants to play sports until it comes down to signing up. He wants to get involved in things but doesn't know what that is. How do I help him figure it out? How do I help him find things that he enjoys like his brother? How do I make him understand that he is just as special as Caden, even if he never decides to play sports? Reece is my kid that just entertains himself and plays for hours by himself and I sometimes wonder if he feels left out. How will all of this effect him? I've been asked several times if I worry about Reece and the answer is always yes. Yes! I do worry about him in so many ways it keeps me up at night.

How do you ever know that what you are doing for your children is what you are suppose to be doing?

You see I have 2 boys one totally different than the other. How do you know that you are doing both of them right? How do you know if in the end it's all gonna work out alright? How do you keep your heart from breaking every time you see theirs break? How do you make sure that they know that it's okay to be who they are and to be happy with that?

How do you know if you are doing the right thing?

Sometimes I wish parenthood came with an instruction manual because today, I feel like I am failing!!

Pink and Green Celebration for One

2010-01-04T14:05:00.010-06:00

For One Very Adorable Little Lady!

On her actual birthday

She had French Toast with Syrup and Scrambled eggs for the very FIRST time!

On January 2, 2010 we celebrated her First birthday with family and friends!

It was a day to remember and I never dreamed that I would be doing candy buffets, tutu's, and making onesies for a little girl of my own. I sure am glad that God knew what He was doing when I wasn't sure being the mommy of a little girl was what I wanted to be doing.

I love you Ellee Bean!!

No longer a baby

2009-12-30T07:00:00.002-06:00

but a little lady!

Where did the year go? Why did the months pass so quickly? Why did the days race by? Why did the minutes tick away like seconds?

I know I only blinked one time, so why did you have to grow when I wasn't looking!

Ellee Rae (bean) Bressler,

I didn't know that we were missing a thing until you came along and I realized we were missing the piece that would complete this family. You have brought more laughter, more tears, more joy, more love and melted all of our hearts to puddles.

It's so hard to believe that a year has passed and this time 365 days ago I was experiencing what it was like to be the Mommy of a little girl and I fell in love all over again. I love you more than words, I love you to the moon and back, I love you forever and ever and I thank God for the gift he gave me on the evening of December 30, 2008.

Happy Birthday Baby Girl!

We Wish You A Merry Christmas

2009-12-25T05:30:00.003-06:00

We Wish you a Merry Christmas. We wish you a Merry Christmas and We Miss You This Year!

We are more than blessed this White Christmas Morning and our prayer is that you have a blessed Christmas season too! May He protect and keep you safe, my your blessing be many, and may you never forget what happened on that first Christmas day.

Happy Birthday Jesus!

It's 10:46 and the children are finally nestled in bed

2009-12-24T22:26:00.018-06:00

and we are just waiting for sugar plums to dance in their heads.

Ellee helped Mommy finish wrapping

while Daddy, bubba and bubbie made reindeer food.

Each one of them received a special ornament this year to hang on the tree tonight.

Caden's was baseball to represent an amazing year of baseball.

Reece because what would be better than Santa in a sleigh? Santa on a MOTORCYCLE of course!

Miss Ell is celebrating her very first Christmas 5 days before she turns 1.

Our Christmas Eve gifts were open and it was pajama's. It's a family tradition that isn't their favorite!

We have a new reader of "The Night Before Christmas".

Daddy didn't mind a bit!

Stater enjoying his "old" snowman toy while listening to Caden read.

The reindeer will not go hungry while visiting the Bressler Bunch tonight...despite the freezing cold temperatures.

We don't have a chimney so Santa's Magic Key is waiting for him to appear!

Do you think Santa will be sad because he is getting Oreo's instead of Homemade cookies? I'm guessing he isn't going to be happy about this!

Our Elf is preparing to leave tonight because his duties are through! The kids told him good-bye and that we would see him next year.

Santa has landed at the Bressler Bunch House!

Merry Christmas to all of you and May God Bless you this season and all year through!

It's Christmas Time around here and we are....

2009-12-24T16:51:00.012-06:00

making hot cocoa mix

Would you like a little Hot Cocoa with your Whip Cream?

YUMMY!!!

Dippin'

Oreo's!

Pulling our sister around the kitchen on a quilt! She loves it!

Loving Stater with a new haircut and Christmas Scarf!

Hey Mom! No need to make the bed today because we are taking over your room for awhile. Now why would you do that?

To track Santa of Course!

Well of course......The bed making can wait because they clearly have their priorities in order and tracking the Jolly Guy in a red suit is of the utmost importance today.

Happy Almost Birthday Jesus!

I am blessed beyond measure, I am blessed without a doubt!

Gingerbread Houses = Good Times

2009-12-23T13:40:00.013-06:00

We went to a Gingerbread House Party with several different families from church and it was a tradition that we will do every year at our house. It was a lot of fun, good food, fabulous friends, a huge mess, and lots of smiles and laughs.

Thanks Gregg and Cheryl for opening your home to all of us to build Gingerbread houses. I never knew that making that big of a mess could be so much fun. Another new tradition for the Bressler family and I can hardly wait until next year when we can do these again!

Almost Dr. Phil and Mini-Me

2009-12-22T15:50:00.009-06:00

Not only does the littlest man in my life look identical to the oldest man in my life, but he wants to be just like him and do everything just like he does.

He even has his own ID badge...Just like Dads!

His own briefcase to hold all of his "work stuff" and computer...Just like dads.

Had pajama day today at school and then it was time to go to work...Same place Dad works.

You couldn't have picked a better person to want to be like Reece! Dad takes good care of us and I hope that someday when you are grown and married you have a little boy that looks just like you and looks up to you as much as you look up to your daddy. I hope you go far and do great things, but if I had my way you would only go as far as your walkie-talkies would reach.

I love you mini-Phil!

Oh the weather outside is frightful

2009-12-19T22:56:00.019-06:00

but the Bressler family traditions delightful....

Elvis sitting nicely on the shelf keeping watch over the behavior of little ones wondering around our house.

Ellee has discovered a new tradition of her own.....Daily sitting in the shoe box!

Bungee Jumping at the Mall -Rough and Tumble Reece was not a fan of this event!

Caden a little braver but nervous!

Last year only two little boys were in a train car. This year they are joined by a little lady!

Seat belts required to ride the train.....But why follow the rules?

Daddy it's Cold outside!

Our NEW family tradition! Bradly Fair at Christmas time.....BEAUTIFUL!

Mommy we need this for our tree!

They would like you to believe that they really don't like each other!

My NEW TRADITION FAVORITE Free Carriage ride at Bradly Fair even if we do have to stand in line for an hour and 30 minutes for a 5 minute ride. It was worth every teeth chatter!

See I told you that they really do like each other!!

My old favorite Christmas Tradition hours upon hours of Christmas light looking!

Merry Christmas Clark!

What would Christmas be without Dancing Christmas Trees?

If you honk they shimmy a little bit but if you tell them how much you love them they really put on a show!!!

Laughs from my kids - Absolutely Priceless!

I hope that you took the time today to Laugh Out Loud!!!!

Laugh Out Loud

2009-12-18T21:40:00.016-06:00

The Christmas season is upon us and every year I tell myself that I am going to enjoy this time of year with my kids. We are going to bake, we are going to play, we are going to make homemade gifts and just like always, the days passed too quickly and we haven't gotten to do any of that.

Custom orders for PaddyWhacks began stacking up in November, a house to try and keep up, children that must be bathed and fed on a regular basis, Christmas program practice and programs to attend, shopping to do, and just the regular hustle and bustle of the Christmas season got in the way of enjoying it once again.

This past week has been a whirlwind of activity from trying really hard to finish all of my orders and get them delivered, to baking cookies for cookie bouquets for teachers, to trying to gather all of the things needed for class parties. Today I vowed that the rest of the Christmas season was going to be about my kids. I have 7 days until Christmas and we are going to make those 7 days count.

I want to Laugh Out Loud and I want to Laugh Out Loud watching my children be children and enjoying the Spirit of Christmas and I want to see the joy in their little eyes as they discover it all. So starting tomorrow, there is no more baking, unless it's with my kids baking what they want to bake. There is no more cutting, painting, sanding and staining in a cold garage. There is no more screaming and yelling to leave me alone long enough to accomplish starting a load of laundry.

There will be plenty of food making for reindeer. There will be plenty of cookies made for the big guy when he comes to visit. There will be lots of looking at Christmas lights. There will be lots of Christmas movie watching. There will be lots of late nights and hot chocolate. There will be lots of time spent as a family. There will be family traditions made. There will be lots of opportunities to Laugh Out Loud!

So the countdown to Christmas has officially begun in our house and on Friday, December 18th we enjoyed:

Finding Elvis the Elf first thing this morning.

Mommy enjoyed having all of these cookies and the mess out of her kitchen.

This Candy Cane baby actually sat on Santa's lap today when he came to visit Reece's Christmas Party at school.

Santa read his "NICE" list.

Reece waited patiently to see if his name was actually on the "NICE" list......Happy to report that he squeaked by another year.

Caden's favorite Student teacher, Mrs. Henley celebrated her last day of being in his class. A few tears rolled down our faces and we wished her well and hoped that we would see her again soon. She is going to make an awesome teacher and touch the lives of many kids, just like she did Caden's. Caden had a lot of fun teasing her about being a YUCKY bird fan and she teased him by making him eat Jayhawk sugar cookies. We wish her all the best and we know that she is going to do great!!! Mrs. Henley, you rock in our book even if you are a Chicken Hawk!

We enjoyed so much fun food that our tummy hurt!

The class parties are over, the weekend is here and then only 2 more days of school and we our out for break. I can't wait! I'm ready for lazy mornings. I'm ready for great afternoons. I'm ready

for evenings where snuggled up on the couch with a blanket and a good movie is the best place to be.

I'm ready for moments when we just...

LAUGH OUT LOUD!!!!!

*Thanks Dina for my Christmas present and for reminding me that it doesn't matter the amount of presents under our tree, it doesn't matter our financial situation, it doesn't matter if something doesn't get done....What does matter is that we take the time to laugh out loud and truly remember what Christmas is all about! I love it and thanks for being one of the most amazing people I know!

Hey Becky!

2009-12-15T15:32:00.002-06:00

Becky Hughes the great and wonderful CAMPUS HIGH SCHOOL band director that you are.....What night do you want to babysit?

Just thought I would ask you here since you are a daily visitor to the Bressler Bunch Blogspot!!!.....LOL!!!!

The Bethlehem Project

2009-12-15T07:19:00.014-06:00

And Oh what a project it was!

Our boys made their first debut in a Christmas program at church and in front of a church full of people, Iya and Pa, Aunt Janet, and our Awesome friends Gregg, Melissa, Arie and Felix they managed to bundle up their nerves and give it their best shot.

They had to be at the church at 9:45 to go over a few songs, drink some hot chocolate, and get their "Bible Uniforms" on as Reece calls them.

Then the church grew dark, the stars appeared, and all of these children entered the stage to tell the story of Jesus being born in a manager.

There was Mary, Joseph, Bethlehem Kids, Angels and even a donkey.

There was singing, motions, concentration, lots of reasons for Mom to ~~laugh~~ be so proud.

There was country line dances Bible times style.

There was cleaning of a stable so that the Christ child could be born there.

There were a few tears because the older kids forgot we were there and elbowed us in the head.

There were costume changes

Practicing since September had finally paid off and their was a big sigh of relief when it was over and the clapping began. We could take off the "ROBE" that had been a big issue in our house and the source of many tears in our house for a week.

The Bethlehem Project and Oh what a project it was!

Thanks Miss Lana for a job well done and for touching the lives of my children.

This Candy Cane is...

2009-12-06T21:45:00.008-06:00

sweet enough to ~~eat~~ love!

In 24 days...

It will be December 30th.

In 24 days...

We will be having a celebration.

In 24 days...

We will wake up to a little girl who will be loved a little bit more.

In 24 days...

This little striped baby girl will be turning ONE

Lets Leave England

2009-12-04T11:00:00.027-06:00

was the line of the most handsome pilgrim that I have ever seen!

Reece started our Thanksgiving with his Thanksgiving feast at school and what a fabulous feast it was.

A little singing.

A little laughing and feasting with our friends using placemats with their Indian names on them. My pilgrim turned indian for the feast was Chief Basketball.

So we bagan our Thanksgiving vacation being thankful for wonderful teachers at Oatville who touch the lives of my children everyday.

We are thankful for Grandma's and PaPa's.

We are thankful for the church that my Great Grandpa Chalakee started and has been home to many family gatherings, weddings, funerals, church services, talent shows and lots and lots of Creek singing.

We are thankful for My Great Grandma Chalakee's Camp house where many meals with tables full of fabulous food have been prepared and lots of stories told.

We are thankful for Great Grandpa's who think the babies of the family are more his speed.

We are thankful for Aunts who love us, even if they don't have too.

We are thankful for Great Grandpa Reece and Pa Reece and Dear Lord please tell me there are not crickets in that bucket my ONLY baby GIRL is holding.

We are thankful for Mom who was glad we were home.

We are thankful for cousins even when you feel really old because you remember carrying them around as babies. Now look at them they are HHHUUUGGGEEE!

We are thankful for cousins who could pass for brothers.

We are thankful that our Uncle doesn't dress in pink and wear bows on his head on a regular basis.

We are thankful that Chelsea did the dishes and she seems to fit perfectly!

We are thankful that We have this crazy Aunt and Uncle (brother) that we have, we just wish they didn't live so far away.

We are thankful for the next generation of muscles. Did you see the boys in that picture above? 3 of those boys were this little guys uncles and one of them was his dad and the other 2 his cousins. Yep he's gonna be huge!!!

We are thankful for great weather and memories made with our brother.

We are thankful for root beer bottles full of grasshoppers that make good fish bait.

We are thankful that Pa is a catch and release kind of fisherman and we didn't have to eat this catfish that Caden and Reece caught in Pa and Iya's pond.

We are thankful that Santa sent us an Elf On The Shelf that was waiting for us when we got home.

We are thankful for Elvis the Elf who reports to Santa every night letting him know if we've been bad or good. Does fighting with our brother count as being bad? If so, we may be in trouble around here.

Nineteen Ten

2009-11-18T23:59:00.005-06:00

My Grandma's Hands

By Melinda Clements

Grandma some ninety plus years, sat feebly on the patio bench. She didn't move, just sat with her head down staring at her hands.

When I sat down beside her she didn't acknowledge my presence and the longer I sat I wondered if she was OK.

Finally, not really wanting to disturb her but wanting to check on her at the same time, I asked her if she was OK. She raised her head and looked at me and smiled. "Yes, I am fine, thank you for asking," she said in a clear strong voice.

I didn't mean to disturb you, Grandma, but you were sitting here staring at your hands and I wanted to make sure that you were OK," I explained to her.

"Have you ever looked at your hands?" she asked. "I mean really looked at your hands?"

I slowly opened my hands and stared down at them. I turned them over, palms up then palms down. No I guess I never really looked at my hands as I tried to figure out the point that she was making.

Grandma smiled and related this story:

"Stop and think for a moment about the hands that you have, how they have served you well throughout the years. These hands though wrinkled and shriveled and weak have been the tools I have used all my life to reach out and grab and embrace life.

They braced and caught my fall when as a toddler I crashed upon the floor.

They put food in my mouth and clothes on my back. As a child, my mother taught me to fold them in prayer. They tied my shoes and pulled on my boots. They held my husband and wiped my tears when he went off to serve our country in time of war.

They have been dirty, scraped and raw, swollen and bent. They were uneasy and clumsy as I tried to hold my newborn son. The left hand is decorated with my wedding band that showed the world that I was married and loved someone special.

They wrote my letters to him and trembled and shook when I buried my parents and my spouse.

They have held my children and grandchildren, consoled neighbors, and shook in fists of anger when I didn't understand.

They have covered my face, combed my hair and washed and cleansed the rest of my body. They have been sticky and wet, bent and broken, dried and raw. And to this day when not much of anything else works well, but these hands hold me up, lay me down, and continue to fold in prayer.

The hands are the mark of where I've been and the ruggedness of life.

But more importantly it will be these hands that God will reach out and take when He leads me home. And with these hands He will lift me to His side and there I will use these hands to touch his face."

I will never look at these hands the same again.

When my hands are hurt or sore or when I stroke the face of my children and husband I think of my Grandma. I know that one day she will be stroked and caressed and held by the Hands Of God!

**********

This piece was used by permission from the author Melinda Clements (c)

Hands across time

(Grandma Mable age 98 and her youngest Great Great Granddaughter Ellee Rae age 1 week)

Happy 99th Birthday Grandma Mable and may the Good Lord bless you and keep you.

Thank you for the lessons, the stories, and the life that you have lived in front of all of us.

All my love!

Better Late than Never....

2009-11-05T07:04:00.006-06:00

Seems to be my motto as of late!

So while I would like to have a fabulous post telling you all about our halloween....I've got nothing other than it was fabulous, the kids had a great time, the weather was perfect, the trick or treaters mostly adorable, and we were spared another halloween of no high school tricksters coming to visit in the middle of the night.

So better late than never and you get to at least see my little monsters all dressed up in their not so scary halloween attire.

I now introduce you to....Storm Shadow, Little Miss Lady Bug, and Bio Hazard Dude!

I just know that one of these years my boys are going to want to be something scary, wear make up and wigs, but this was not the year. May be next year!

So better late than never!

The girl who always has a party on her head...

2009-11-02T21:49:00.003-06:00

celebrated her 10 month birthday on the 30th of October!

The time has gone by so fast and I can't believe that she is 10 months old already!

Happy 10 months Ellee Rae!

I love you to the moon and back, to infinity and beyond, forever and ever!

She called us...

2009-10-29T15:27:00.006-05:00

A family that was a treat to photograph.

She said...

We were a beautiful family...

She said...

It was a little crazy, but a lot of fun!

She said...

We were spunky, full of fun, the type of people you want to spend all day with.

I say...

She's crazy if she thought that was a treat!

I say...

I do have a beautiful family and I am very blessed to call them my own!

I say...

It was beyond crazy, but tons and tons of fun!

I say...

We will spend more hours with her in the future, capturing more memories for us!

I also say...

Beki at Pampering Beki is not only an amazing photographer but she is also a mom who understands chaos. She understands that sometimes kids just do their own thing and you have to go with it and capture life as it happens. Thanks Beki for capturing the chaos that I love so much!

*Click on any of the Beki's or she's to visit her website and see a few more photos of the many that she took. While you are there take a look around and visit her Etsy store too!

This little lady bug

2009-10-21T14:08:00.008-05:00

Has been FEVER FREE for over 24 hours now and we couldn't be more excited about it!

This little lady bug

Is slowly becoming her little ol' self again and we couldn't be more thrilled about it!

Thanks so much for all of the thoughts and prayers that have been sent straight to Heaven for this little girl. We couldn't be more thankful and grateful for all of the wonderful people in our lives that care so much. We truly are blessed beyond measure!

What a difference 12 hours can make

2009-10-17T22:27:00.017-05:00

On October 15th, it was a normal Thursday. We spent the day making cookies with some friends, Grandma stopped by while she was in town picking up my nephews and we were all healthy, happy, and enjoying the day and looking forward to the 3 day weekend the boys had from school.

Phil gets home from school about 4:30 that day and we noticed Ellee was coughing a little and her nose had started to run. We took her temperature to find out that she was indeed running a slight fever. We thought that it was better to stay on top of things due to all of the illness that has been going around not only the school where the boys go, but the school where Phil works and we decided that we should take her into immediate care. I gave her some Tylenol and Phil and her headed out the door to immediate care. Of course by the time they got there the Tylenol had kicked in and she was acting like nothing was bothering her. They saw the Doctor on call and he told Phil that it was a seasonal common cold and she would be fine with a little rest. GREAT NEWS!

By Friday morning at 4:30 in the morning Ellee had a horrible cough and was running a fever of 104 so I called the the clinic as soon as they opened and they said they would see her at 1:50 p.m. and if anything changed or she got worse to call them back and they would get her in sooner. At 9:00 she started throwing up and we were at the Doctors office at 10:00. They immediately did a chest x-ray (due to the pneumonia that she just had a month ago) and blood work. The chest x-ray came back showing that she had pneumonia and Dr. Soltz immediately said she need to go to the hospital because he feared it could be H1N1 and in babies it causes them to become very ill and with the pneumonia showing up he didn't want to risk her getting any worse by waiting 12 more hours.

We checked her into St. Francis hospital where they soon discovered that she was very dehydrated. The started her on IV's and did the necessary blood work and swabs they needed to determine if H1N1 was indeed what was making my baby so ill. Ellee was a very sick little girl at this point and didn't want to do anything but sleep and be held. So that is exactly what we did. Sat, rocked and held her close.

Grandma came back to town when she found out that they were going to be admitting her to do what needed to be done and to help out with the boys. When Grandma arrived at the hospital Phil decided that he would go and pick the boys up and spend the evening with them. They went to eat supper and then came to the hospital cafeteria to have ice cream and cookies with Grandma and I since they weren't allowed on the pediatric floor to see Ellee. It was good to see them and it was good to laugh with them, but it was hard to see them leave and go home with Phil for the night.

Grandma ended up staying at the hospital with Ellee and I and it was a very long night. At 4:00 a.m. her fever finally broke and she was a completely different kid. She wouldn't leave her IV alone, she wouldn't leave her oxygen monitor on her toe and she was setting off every monitor alarm that she had in her room. They made the decision to remove her IV since she had taken in nearly two bags of fluid and manged to have enough wet diapers to consider her hydrated. She was a completely different kid and wired for sound. At 6:00 a.m. she finally settled back down and slept until about 7:30 a.m. The doctors made their rounds and after seeing that she seemed to be feeling better they decided to go ahead and dismiss her even though she wasn't 100% and they didn't have the H1N1 results back. They told us there wasn't anything that could be done for the pneumonia because it was viral and that since she wasn't vomiting and her fever was staying under control with Motrin that there really wasn't any need to keep her. We were given instructions as to what to do if the vomiting started again, if the fever spiked, and if she stopped eating and drinking and we were on our way home shortly after lunch.

Phil and the boys came to pick us up and that little girl just lit up when she saw those two brothers of hers. They were so excited to see her and she was thrilled as punch to see them.

We got home and Ellee became very fussy, her eyes started looking glassed over again and she just wasn't herself. I called back up to the hospital and they soon informed me that they had her test results back and she had tested positive for full blown H1N1 and that there wasn't a darn thing they could do for her except let her body fight it off and if anything infection set in or her pneumonia turned to bacterial then they would start her on antibiotics. Now that is one tough thing to swallow when you know your baby is sick and they tell you she is just going to have to fight it off. How is my 9 month old suppose to do that? They told us what to look for and what to expect and that she would continue to run a high fever for the next few days.

So that gets us to today. Today is October 19th and I still have a very sick and fussy baby girl. She went back to see her Pediatrician today and he couldn't find any infection that had sat in and said that her body just aches and it's going to take several more days possibly a couple more weeks for her to completely rid this from her body. If she starts breathing rapidly and we can't break her out of that then we are to take her into the emergency room immediately but other than that just to be in touch with him over the next several days and let her know her status.

So we wait! Right now she is asleep with Grandma in the rocking chair and Grandma doesn't seem to mind a bit. It's been a long few days and it's been hard to watch but she is at home and so far she is doing pretty well considering all that is going on in her little body.

Bundle Up So You Don't Freeze....

2009-10-12T21:44:00.011-05:00

Never will a little bit of drizzle and cold tempertures keep a bunch of Kindergartners from enjoying their field trip to the pumpkin patch.

Thank goodness for warm John Deere coats that Grandma and Grandpa bought us. He was so warm in that coat he was sweating. Wish I would have had one for my toes!!

Oh my city boy with a country heart....Mom make sure you take a picture of that cow!!

Students make sure that you pick out a pumpkin that you can carry!

Not this one, It's not big enough!

This one will do just fine and Mom is here to help me carry it!

Nothing like a city boy explaining to another city boy that those are sheep when really they are goats!

All goats have to eat!

Do you think I could drive that tractor Mom?

Could not have picked a better day for a trip to the pumpkin patch with Reece if I would have hand picked it myself. We were a little cold and a little wet but it was nothing that a pair of footie jamma's couldn't take care of when he got home from school at 11:15 a.m.

Thanks for making memories with me today Reece!

Just another Ordinary Day!

2009-10-08T22:12:00.011-05:00

I hope that you enjoy all of the little things in your day today too!

HAPPY FALL YA'LL!

Sometimes when you are 8...

2009-10-08T15:29:00.008-05:00

It's not about playing on the best soccer team around.

It's not about winning or losing.

It's not about foot skills or juggling.

It's not about being the best defender, offender, or goalie.

Sometimes when you are 8...

It's about playing with your best friend.

It's about playing for fun.

It's about learning that winning is great, but it sure isn't everything.

Sometimes when you are 8...

It's about learning life lessons and figuring out that some of the most important things in life aren't things at all....but having your best friend there to support you in this game of "LIFE".

Sometimes when you are 8...

It's moments like these that make your Mom the most proud!

He's loveable, He's cute, He's bright...

2009-10-08T14:58:00.007-05:00

and now he is

My loveable, cute, and brightly shining Oatville Star

On Monday Reece got off of the bus with a huge smile on his face and could hardly wait to tell me that he was chosen as an Oatville Star Student of the week. He was so thrilled that he got to pick out a green star necklace and they said his name on ONN (Oatville News Network) and that everyone was so excited for him. I was so excited for him, too!

On Wednesday, he brought home a packet that had a star student magnet, a book marker with his picture on it, a free kids meal coupon from Applebee's, and an awesome letter from his Principal Mrs. Yorgenson. It said that Reece always uses his manners. He is very helpful and thinks of others. Reece shows excellence by trying hard and is very dependable. He follows classroom rules and Mrs. Fager enjoys having him in her class.

I am so proud of this little boy who has come so far since his first day of preschool and to me he will always be A LOVEABLE, CUTE and BRIGHTLY SHINING STAR in a family where he is loved so very much!

Jesus 911

2009-10-06T20:54:00.004-05:00

Tonight Reece got a hold of my old cell phone and dialed the number that he was taught during fire safety week at school....911!!! Well of course as soon as they answered he hung up the phone and they called back. I explained to them that they learned about fire safety and dialing 911 in school last week and that my 5 year old little boy decided to give it a try. Once again they were very understanding as we went through this same thing when Caden was 5.

When I got off of the phone with them my baby boy says to me, "Mom it wasn't my fault. Jesus made my hand do that and it's His fault. Serious Mom He made me do it because He is in control of me!"

For as long as I carried you..

2009-09-30T07:06:00.004-05:00

I have shared you with the world.

Nine months ago today they placed you in my arms and you slipped into my heart. Nine months ago today I became the Mommy to a beautiful baby girl.

For nine months I carried you, I cried, I talked to you, I sang to you, I prayed for you, I made wishes for you and I loved you more than anyone else loved you. You were a part of me and all that I was and all that I did and I am so thankful that God chose me to be your Mommy.

For as long as I carried you...
I have shared you with the world.

I have shared you with a world that is bright and beautiful. A world with amazing family and friends who welcomed you with open arms. A world where you can dream your dreams and wish your wishes. A world that God created just for you. A world that awaits you and the all that you have to offer it. A world where you can be your own kind of beautiful!

For as long as I carried you...
I have shared you with the world.

I hope the world gives you reason to always smile, laugh and cry with plenty of occasions to do them all at the same time.

I hope the world gives you many opportunities for new adventures.

I hope you always look at the world with wonder and your eyes wide open, never missing a thing.

I hope that you climb the ladder in the world to your own success and that you know I am behind you every step of the way.

I hope you know that when the world is not so kind and things are uncertain, that you will always have a hand to hold. Just reach out and grab the hand of God and know that He will never leave you or forsake you.

I hope that you find in a world that is so grand that you will take the road less traveled and leave your footprints along the way.

I hope in a world that is sometimes hurtful and harsh that you remember to dance in the rain, splash in the puddles, soak in the sunshine, play in the falling leaves and catch snow flakes on your tongue.

I hope this world gives you many reasons to stop and Thank God for all of the joys in your life and that you realize that your are saved by His grace.

I know that one day she will find her own place in this great big world and I can't wait to see where life takes her and to see Gods plans unfold for her. Until then, I will continue to love seeing this world through her eyes, and I will forever smile, laugh and cry through every happy moment, every trying moment and everything in between. She is my heart and I am blessed to call her my baby girl.

For as long as I carried you...
I have shared you with the world.

Ellee,
I am your parent, you are my child.
I am your quiet place, you are my wild.
I am your water wings, you are my deep.
I am your open arms, you are my running leap.
I am your finish line, you are my race.
I am your praying hands, you are my saving grace.
I am your favorite book, you are my new lines.
I am your night light, you are my sunshine.
I am your lullaby, you are my peek-a-boo.
I am your kiss goodnight, you are my I love you!

9 month milestones

2 pearly white
Stands alone
Walks around holding on to things
Throws fits when things don't go her way
Loves hot dogs and mac and cheese
Everything goes to the mouth
Sleeping is sometimes overrated during the day

Nine months have gone by so fast and before we know it this Little Lady will be turning 1.

Love So Much!

2009-09-26T22:39:00.008-05:00

Today my Reecer Piecer was invited to Cheney lake with one of his best buddies Tucker to celebrate the Tuck man turning 5. Reece has been so excited to go since I told him about it on Wednesday when he came home from school. He immediately walked in the door, down the stairs and started packing his bag. For 3 days he walked around the house with his backpack full of clothes and his tool box full of fabulous treasures to take with him.

We dropped him off at their house today around 12:30 and off on this grand adventure he went. Phil, Caden, Ellee and I drove out to the lake this evening and as we were getting ready to leave around 9:00 he wasn't sure that he was going to be able to stay. He just wanted me to stay too. So I told him that I had to take everyone back home and get my jammies and I would be back. In my head the whole time I'm thinking that he is going to crawl up and go to sleep and before he knew that I didn't come back it would be morning and he could go on about his fishing, playing, eating, and most of all getting dirty. I called when we were half way home and Dina said, "he's doing great" so we kept on a driving. We get home, we walk in the door, start bath water and the phone rings. Dina is laughing and says OK he is not even wanting you to come back out here, he is just wanting us to catch up with you so he can go home and he keeps saying I just love her so much!

My heart smiled, I laughed and said, I just love him so much too! Needless to say, Daddy met them in Goddard and picked him up to bring him back home. He has now had a bath, snuggled in his bed and is fast a sleep.

Son,
You may outgrow my lap someday, but you will never outgrow my heart!

I just love you so much too!!!!

24/7

2009-09-24T21:37:00.012-05:00

The toughest job I have ever had!

Laundry Mat Attendant for the mountains of laundry that never seem to end!

Chief Cook and Bottle Washer for the bottomless pits that never get full!

Cheerleader for all of the soccer goals, basketball shots, pitches, catches, and hits!

Maid for all of those dirty bathtubs that prove it's been a GLORIOUS day!

I may get tired, I may get grumpy, I may get frustrated, but none of those things will ever out weigh the love I have for these three little people and the joy they bring to my everyday!

When Caden was born he filled my heart with love. When Reece was born I never thought I could love him as much as I loved Caden. When Ellee was born I never thought I could love her the same way I love my boys.....What I discovered was, I grew a brand new heart with each one!

I am paid with hugs, kisses, I love you Mommy's and lots and lots of smiles and laughter!

The GREATEST job I've ever had!

Love IS what makes you smile when you are tired!

It's a bird! It's a plane! It's....

2009-09-09T15:00:00.027-05:00

a wing walker with a lot of guts and trust!

What's an airshow in Kansas without a K-State Plane?

GO STATE!!!

Of course when your best buddy and his little sister get to share in the fun that makes for the best airshow ever!!!

No airshow is complete without a jet engine powered Johnnie on the spot!

We got to go on a walk down Memory Lane with Phil as he explained to the boys that Grandpa Ernie had a plane just like this one. They thought that was pretty cool and I have to admit so did I.

Remember the Johnnie on the Spot.....Well he also had a truck!

and put on an amazing show with flames, smoke, and then he made his way to the end of the runway....

and then went from 0-to 400mph. I repeat 0-400 mph!!! His poor poor Mama!!!!!

I don't even know how you begin to take pictures of something going that fast......It was amazing!!!

The night ended with this plane and firework show.

It was an absolutely great evening, spent with great people on a fabulous August evening!!

She marches to the beat of her own drum heart

2009-09-08T14:17:00.006-05:00

and that's alright by me.

With a long weekend behind us and a trip to the pediatric cardiologist this morning our hearts aren't so heavy.

We were told today that while she does have an innocent heart murmur it is nothing to worry over. It is a very common thing and she will more than likely outgrow it by the time she becomes a teenager. I'm pretty sure that by the time she is a teenager, it will be my heart we are worrying over. So it's a good thing that she will have more than likely outgrown her condition by then.

She is still on antibiotics for the pneumonia and we will continue those for a couple of days in hopes that they will kick this and she will be back to her happy self, doing what she does and growing way too fast.

So for now, she will march on to the beat of her own ~~drum~~ heart. We will be thankful that God has made her just the way he wanted her to be and that while we desire her to be perfect by the worlds standards she is perfect by His and that is perfect enough for me!

I love her, I love her stripes, I love her in PINK, I love her toes, I love her nose, and I love her heart, new beat and all!!!