Finally

My accomplishments in life are small but very significant. I feel a great sense of pride in this recent goal. I have now taught, bribed, begged, and pleaded with my almost 3 year old that going on the potty is cool. I took a leap and just put him in underwear. He is now fully potty trained and I feel a big burden has been lifted. The amount of diapers I change a day was becoming rather ridiculous (not to blame Mesa at all) and I was getting desperate. I actually had the thought one day that maybe my very intelligent and stubborn child would be motivated by a sticker chart. So I made one and it worked like a charm. If I do nothing else this year ( like run a marathon or learn how to sew) I am happy with this little milestone. And Greyson refuses to wear a pull up at night now and there have not been any accidents at night. HALLELUJAH!!! Now on to bigger problems....

Into the 11th year.....

We did look a little different back then. I have lost the curly fries (as Aaron says) and he has just given up on the whole idea of having hair. Although he does grow a great beard! I made a anniversary present for my parents that says "love get better with time" and I agree. I sit through endless hours of the Dallas Cowboys and UFC fights. And Aaron goes with me to the chic movies and gives me a day off when I need it. Compromise is great! Happy Anniversary sweet cheeks!

twins first day

I can hardly believe my twins are getting ready for Kindergarten. They will always be so little and fragile to me no matter how old they are. Ashton is a good brother and protector for Mesa, sometimes I think that's why they were sent together. There are a few perks here and there for having a special needs daughter. We get front door service from the school bus in the morning. This year the buses don't bring home kindergarten kids because of budget cuts. They did offer to bring Mesa home after school but they would not let Ashton ride with her. HUH? Since I can't be in two places at once I just opted to get Mesa after school. In the winter it might be a little rough but at least it's only for a year. Mesa has a wonderful aide at school and she does get Thursdays off so she can go to physical and occupational therapy.

last time swimming because it's going to be winter soon

This week we went to Rainbow Lake on Tuesday and headed to Downata Hot Springs in Downey on Thursday to get in the last of the swimming before our little summer is over. Downata is really a great place. The water is so warm and the kids can wear their life jackets in the pool and down the slides. They have a nice new handicap ramp too. The changing room could use a little help but Mesa loved the warm water and was exhausted after kicking around the pool for an hour. We went to Red Lobster to eat afterwards and I have never witnessed a 2 year old eat as much shrimp and fish as Greyson did. He even tried to eat the tails!

my sister...my hero

My little sister Josue is still hanging on with three babies in her rapidly growing belly. She has been in the hospital for 5 weeks now. She got a surprise visit from my mom this weekend because it was her birthday. Every time she answers the phone she says she is fine and manages somehow not to let the tears flow. She is strong and a great example to me! Not too long ago that was me and I can't say that I was strong. We all have our trials in life and one experience only prepares us for the next. Sometimes I feel like I have such a long road ahead of me. My body is starting to feel the physical demands of carrying, bathing, feeding and caring for a daughter who relies on me for everything. But when she looks at me and smiles, I can see in her eyes that she understands and loves me. Pretty soon Josue will be looking at three new faces and will feel a little overwhelmed, but imagine the happiness that will come to all us mothers in the end when we see the fruits of our labors.

what we've been up to!

So when does school start? We have been keeping busy with activities. Ashton did t ball and is almost done with soccer. He has done really well and it is good to see him work at something. Marin continues her gymnastics and is awesome. She moved to Level 2 and is learning to do handstands on the balance beam. She is also doing horseback riding and smooth talked her way into grandma buying her some new boots. I was surprised she came home with red cowgirl boots. Not her usual choice. Yesterday I saw her dismount the horse bareback while it was walking. Her teacher is helping them to learn what to do if there is a "horse emergency". Greyson is a bundle of energy, loves to be outside, wants nothing to do with the potty and wants to wear a beanie when he goes out. WHATEVER! Mesa is doing some physical therapy and actually loves going to all the games and the park now, which is different than before. She is so sweet and brings a wonderful spirit into our home.

Keep em coming.... but not yet

My older sister Deanna had her 7th baby a few weeks ago. Her body might be getting a little worn out. She had to have a C section for the first time and the baby revealed fat rolls and was 9 pounds 5 ounces, plus the cord was wrapped about his neck just a few times. So all in all the C section turned out to be a very good thing. They named him Brock and I wonder what brave woman will marry him someday when he tells her that he has 6 older sisters. YIKES! Baby #3 is on almost ready to make an appearance in Arizona to my little brother and his wife.
And I am sad to report that my baby sister has been banished to the hospital and is on complete bed rest with her triplets. She is fighting every day to keep things under control and she actually fired a nurse the other day from ever coming in her room again. I laughed remembering that I did that about 3 times myself. Why do people think you want to hear their life story when you are having contractions, uncomfortable, hungry and tired? I think all the Labor and Delivery nurses should have to be on bed rest for a week just so they know how horrible and annoying it is.
I have a prayer in my heart for her every second of the day, pleading with God that those little spirits will stay in her belly for many more weeks. I know she will be blessed because she is a wonderful, loving and fabulous person!