Action Shots

Old Capital City Roller Girls

OCCRG needs your support!
As you know I am a Roller Derby Gal! I am loving it! Our team is currently selling raffle tickets to raise money for our practice facilities. It is really difficult to find a great place to skate.
The raffle tickets are selling for $5.00 each...drawing to be held on January 11th. Need not be present to win. The prize you ask? An Old Capital City Rollers Girls Fan pack! Official OCCRG t-shirt, hat, free Papa John's pizzas....how cool is that! If you are interested in supporting your "favorite" derby gal (yes...Me...Toxic Sugar) let me know! I can even mail you the tickets!
Support Roller Derby...because Rink Rash is Sexy!

Down with the sickness

I am back among the living. Thank goodness. I have been very sick since Tuesday afternoon. It began as a terrible migraine. The worst I ave had in a long time. Complete with light sensitivity, sound sensitivity, halos and rings ad throbbing pain. Santa came a day early on the eve. We opened gifts and then I headed to my dark bedroom and slept the entire day. We went out for a new tradition, pizza on Christmas Eve, I was in so much pain. Even looking at lights after dinner was not much fun. (Normally one of my favorite holiday things to do.) By Christmas day I was so miserable I could barely stand to watch my beauties open their presents. I moaned and ached. My bones hurts my muscles ached. I seriously felt as if I had been drugged and tried t Santa's sleigh and run over by the reindeer a million and two times! When I could take i no more, back to my bed, my lions den in the dark. Yesterday I called the doc, who turns out had the day off. Matt decided he was taking me to the ER. They diagnosed the headache as a severe migraine (thanks, I knew that) gave me some IV migraine meds, benedryl and Ty3. I also have some IV fluids and learned that I had the influenza virus. Happy Holidays to me! I m feeling much better today. Headache is very faint. Muscles and bones not aching nearly as much. I hate being sick. It has been a LONG time since I have felt that bad...maybe not ever in fact. Thanks to Grammy Pam and Grammy Val...I can not imagine the last couple days without your help. Thanks also to my husband! You are the man!! Even though the laundry is waist high and the house looks like a tornado went through it...the kids were cared for, bathed and fed...and most of all loved...And in your free time...you took care of me...the whining, crying, helpless patient! I love you Stinky!

Follow The Little Beauties

Hey all...if you follow my blog...be sure to check out my main blog site and follow us there too!
Little Beauties It is updated much more often...plus my Beauties are too sweet!

More Little Derby Girls

The Beauties are still loving Mommy's gear! Silvie even wants to wear the mouthpiece. I am so excited to take Chloe skating next weekend! She will be getting her skates, pad and helmet very soon! Yeah! Mommy is having a very difficult time keeping Santa's secret quiet!

Favorites

Game time! I thought that this might be fun to play. All you have to do is make a list of ten of your favorite things. But there is a little catch. Everything on the list has to start with a specific letter of the Alphabet. That letter is randomly assigned by the blogger who you are playing with!

I was sent the letter "F" by Jessica! So here goes my list of favorites that begin with the letter "F"

1. Four...my four Little Beauties

2. Family time

3. Funky Socks

4. Flowers...tulips (in case you want to send me some)

5. Family Feud (I want to be a contestant)

6. Fireworks

7. Forensic Files

8. Fiona Apple

9. Fairies

10. Feet...baby feet

Let me know if you would like to play, leave me a comment and I will send you a letter...

Ho Ho Hmmmmm

Let me just start this post by saying that I try not to complain. Sure, I am human and I do have my days. But generally I take what comes to me and try to make it work. Tonight however, I am dumbfounded. I decided after the Little Beauties were fed, bathed and given their goodnight kisses, that I may as well suck it up and do the last little bit of Holiday shopping I had to do. We also needed groceries...as I had not been to the store and the Beauties were getting tired of PB&Js and pasta with butter. I generally do not shop at Walmart for groceries (I'm a Fareway girl) but I needed to get stocking stuffers and such so I decided tonight one stop shopping was the way to go. Now I am not a rocket scientist but it is t-minus 4 shopping days until Christmas...way do they put the absolute slowest employees on the register? Why do they only have 4 registers open when the number of customers is more than normal...obviously? Why is is that they do not hire some more employees, lots of people looking for jobs, right? Really? Now like I said I am not a complaining kind a gal...I'm patient (I have 4 kids and a husband, so we know I am patient...but the thing that really set it off tonight...When I arrived home I put away the groceries and looked at the receipt, because I always do that...I am a tight-wad I guess (you have to be when you are trying to raise 4 kids on one salary) as I went through I found that I was double and even TRIPLE charged on not one item...but NINE fricking things! Are you kidding me? Pay attention to what you are doing! As I sat totalling the items I was double and triple charged for, the total came out to be over $50.00! Can I say it again...Are you kidding me? I immediately got the phone and called the store. It took 15 fricking minutes for a live person to answer! They young gal on the other end says hmm, can you bring your receipt back in and we will take a look at it? Ah sure, I live clear on the other side of town, the roads are crappy and it is ten o'clock at night! I asked if it had to be tonight, she replied with "no, just sometime." Okay...I am worried! What do I do? Is this an honest mistake on the cashiers part? Really? It makes me wonder if this kind of thing happens a lot? Hmmm...Like I said, I am dumbfounded and a bit angry...Thanks for letting me complain...Oh yeah and Happy Holidays.

Little Skaters

Santa is finished shopping. Chloe's big gift of the year...her very first pair of roller skates! Complete with a helmet and knee/elbow pads! Santa is soooooo excited for Christmas morning! Chloe has been going with me to a few Derby practices, and she is a little Roller Derby wanna-be. She is so sweet! She stands on the sidelines and practices her moves and falls. Whenever we are running drills, she claps and says "good fall girls" what a little coach. She wants to skate with us so badly! I cannot wait to take her to open skate at the rec center next week after the big day. They have a free open skate night every Saturday. How cool is that? The Littlest Beauties are also fascinated with my Derby gear. They love putting on the helmet and trying to get my mouth guard to fit in their mouths! They even say "Mommy skate." Matt bought them all to practice a couple weeks ago. They were so interested, not a peep out of them the entire time. I think I may have four little skater girls on my hands.

Santa sents up the playhouse

Santa is bringing the Little Beauties the "Rose Petal Cottage" for Christmas. I set out n a mission to assemble it this evening. Chloe s spending the night at Grammy and Papa's and I figured it would be the only night to get it together without interruptions from my dearest little Chloe girl. Let's just say...THAT THING STINKS TO PUT TOGETHER! Seriously. I am not really a "follow" the paper directions kind of gal, but I did with this one. It took me about 45 minutes from start to finish. I only had to take apart and reassemble 2 parts. Glad it is together! I know the Beauties will LOVE it!

Here is a Christmas related question...for all you holiday "experts"...

Do you wrap gifts from Santa? I am torn...Matt says no wrap, but as a kid our Santa gift were always wrapped....hmmm...please lend me some thoughts on this. Also...what are some unique stocking stuffers? Stockings are my most favorite and I want some fun ideas to fill them with this year!

We are beginning a new tradition at our house this year. Each of the beauties are getting 3 gifts each for Christmas. When Baby Jesus was born the 3 Kings each brought a gift. Since it is Jesus' birthday we are following what he received. Kind of neat I think. We are also going to bake a birthday cake for Jesus and sing Happy Birthday to Him. I think it is so important to teach the girls what Christmas is really about. What a fun way I thought to really get them to learn and understand.

Pay It Forward

I was lucky enough to be the second to post a comment on Rachel's blog over @ Pretty in Pink "Pay It Forward" post. Thank you so much Rachel! I am very excited to play along!

Here is how it works:

The main focus is doing an act of kindness without expecting anything in return other than that the recipient will, in their turn, pass the kindness along and pay it forward.

I will send a small, fun gift to the first 3 bloggers who post a comment on this entry.

In turn, those three will post this information and pick 3 people they want to send something to and then the game will continue! If you are interested in participating, be one of the first 3 bloggers to leave a comment!

The little something you send can be something you made, bought, were given or found, anything you want! Just a gift that will make the person's day! You have to promise that you will then post about this on your blog, link back to me, and then send something to the first three people who sign up to play along through your blog.

So get to it!

If you are one of the first 3 people to comment on this post, please send your name and address to my email! hendrickskimberly@rocketmail.com
*OH and if you have never seen the movie Pay it Forward....you must go rent it. It is fabulous. Get some tissues too because you WILL need them.

Honest Scrap Award

Elizabeth at the Mommy...etc sent this award my way. Thanks so much! You all should check out her blog! She is a great writer!

I need to share 10 honest things about myself...

1. I secretly hope to have another baby someday...maybe

2. I need to lose 75 lbs

3. I love reality TV

4. The world around me frightens me...a lot some days

5. I would love to write a book

6. I pray every single day

7. I love listening to my husband talk...about anything

8. I don't mind doing laundry...which is good since I do a lot

9. I hate shopping...I'm impulsive

10. I am a terrible cook...and I hate to cook...but I love food network...weird I know

I would like to pass along this award to several of my subscribers:

Rachel @ Pretty in Pink

Molly @ My Cuttie Pies

Lorrie @ Our Name is Blog

Debbie @ Suburb Sanity

Alicia @ Two B's and Me

Check these great bloggers out!

Not very Sleepy

It is 1:30 am and I am awake. I am just not sleepy. I updated Little Beauties. I played Word Challenge on Facebook (crackbook I like to call it.) I watched some reality TV reruns. (Another addiction.) I washed my face...twice. I ate some popcorn. I did a couple loads of laundry. Caught up on reading my favorite blogs. Checked on the Beauties (fast asleep.) I unplugged the Christmas tree lights. I checked the doors...twice. Checked on the Beauties again (still fast asleep.) I am just not sleepy. I NEVER have a problem sleeping. But tonight...I guess I do. Hope you all are snoozing the night away.

Beer is good mmmkay

Is it bad that I just sent Matty to the hood mart to get me a beer? Not a sixer, just a 24 oz. It was such a long day. No nappers for the beauties. A lot of crying. A lot of fighting. A lot of whining, bickering and arguing. Ah...can't wait to have four teenagers in the same house. I hate winter! Everyone has cabin fever, myself included. Waiting for spring already.

Derby Love

Toxic Sugar was hard at it tonight. As were the rest of the Old Capital City Roller Girls! We have a Huzzie Lecher, Kila Kaylola, Bang, Fonda Cuffs, Killa Baker, Bat-her-up, and a few others still deciding on Derby Names. Love mine by the way...thanks for all your input. Love my Bloggy friends.

Derby is Fantastic. I love it! Seriously if you are the smallest bit interested, you should see if your area has a team and check it out. It is an amazing feeling of accomplishment, endurance, power and not to mention it is so much fun. We have a three hour practice on Sundays, which sounds like a really long time, but we are learning so much it really flies. We have enough to scrimmage now on our team so we are actually "jamming" at practices.

We are actively looking for team sponsors. So if you know anyone...send them our way. We are also still recruiting Derby Girls! Uniforms are in the works too and merchandise to sell. I will post photos when we are up and running with Old Capital City Roller Girls merchandise. So exciting! If you are in this area and interested, let me know. Come to a practice. Check it out.

What someone is not looking?

I attempted to capture some moments by photography yesterday. I have decided that when it involves taking pictures of all four of them together...they are always candid. Someone is always making a funny face, or crying, or has hair in her eyes, will not sit still, will not sit next to someone else...whatever it may be. So, I just suck it up, because I figure the Little Beauties are photo perfect no matter what they are doing in the shot. I was trying to get a cute picture for holiday cards. I have a few good ones to choose from...we will see...maybe I will have to try another session. But here are a few of the ones I took yesterday.

25 Things about Sugar Mommy

Welcome to the Holiday edition of 25 Things About Me.

Okay, here's what you're supposed to do, and try not to be a SCROOGE!

Just copy this entire post and paste into a new post.

Then change all the answers so that they apply to you.

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Wrapping Paper.

2. Real tree or Artificial? Artificial

3. When do you put up the tree? First week of December

.4. When do you take the tree down? After the New Year

5. Do you like eggnog? Ewe...but Matty does.

6. Favorite gift received as a child? roller skates or new bike.

7. Hardest person to buy for? Matty

8. Easiest person to buy for? Chloe

Do you have a nativity scene? No.

10. Mail or email Christmas cards? Mail

11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? It's the thought that counts.

12. Favorite Christmas Movie? The Grinch

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? Depends

.14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? No

15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? That's a toughy

16. Lights on the tree? White ones

17. Favorite Christmas Song? Too many to choose.

18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? Parents homes, close to home.

19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer? Dancer, Dasher, Prancer, Donner, Blizten, Comet, Cupid, Vixen and Rudolph

20. Angel on the tree top or a star? Angel

21. Open presents on Christmas Eve or morning? Christmas morning.

22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? Shopping!

23. Favorite Ornament theme or color? favorite ornaments are the ones handmade by Chloe.

24. Favorite thing for Christmas dinner? Ham.

25. What do you want for Christmas this year? Nikon D90...I know...good taste.

If you do this be sure to leave a comment so we can all stop by and check out your list.

The name

Thanks so much to all my Bloggy Friends who sent Derby names my way. There were some really really good ones! I have decided....TOXIC SUGAR...number 16 1/2...It will be official on the National registry soon!

Yay Me

We are well in the middle of week two of colds and sniffles and ear infections around here. Yuck! The triplets have had colds, leading to ear infections, leading to sleepless nights. I never gave myself much credit when the Littlest Beauties were infants. Credit for all I really accomplished in daily life going on such teensie tiny amounts of sleep. I am talking for the first 6 months or so I averaged about 2 1/2 hours a night. Then for the next 10 months after that I averaged about 4 hours a night, sometimes less. They lack of sleep lasted through breastfeeding which was weened at 16 months. Then they began sleeping through the night. Little stinkers just wanted to snuggle with Mommy all night. They have been doing great, except when they are not feeling well of course. So needless to say the last 2 weeks, Mommy is sleep deprived again. Seriously, I DO NOT know how I did it for 16 months! I don't know if I could do it again. I am so tired! So I have to remind myself today...Yay me...You go girl!

I am not bragging...but...

Okay maybe I am bragging a little bit. All of you that know me know that as far as weigh issues are concerned, I have been struggling MAJOR over the last two and a half years. Being preggo with the triplet beauties, I gained...yeah...sorry not going to give exact number here are you kidding? Let's just say I gained a lot of weight. Didn't lose much, if any breastfeeding for those sixteen months, and haven't lost any since I stopped breastfeeding, in fact, I've gained! But, since becoming a Derby Girl, I have lost EIGHT pounds! Yeah! By the time we actually start bouting in April...I should be my once thinner Sugar Mommy! Here's to Derby workouts! They are fabulous!

A little Help for Sugar Mommy

Okay all my Bloggy pals and readers. Time to put on your thinking caps and lend some creativity to Sugar Mommy. I need a Roller Derby Girl name. Something catchy. Something fun. I want to have "Sugar" as part of the name because Matt calls me Sugar, and it has become my nickname, my bloggy alias. I thought about using Sugar Mommy, but it sounds a little too "soft" for Derby. Most of the names on the National Derby registry are a bit "harder" a little "tougher" if you get what I am saying. We are a family oriented team. We are all about family so it needs to be clean. Some of the names on the registry are down right nasty, and that's not me. Some of the ones on the list are: "Sassy Sugar" "Sugar Rush" "Sugar Crash" and "Spicy Sugar" however I am not 100% on any of those. So I need your help...Be Creative...I am counting on you!

Those Days

Ever have those days when you feel like nothing, not a single thing goes your way. Ever had those days when you feel like you have no energy. No Control. Your mind is tired. Your body is tired. You feet are tired. Your mouth is tired. You feel like you are trying to reason with rocks. Like no ones listens. They care about you. They just don't really listen. Ever have those days when your kids fight all day. Every waking moment. Not because they are mad at each other. Not because they do not get along. But simply because they are kids. Your anxiety level is somewhere between the Moon and Mars. You try to take a shower. Hoping the hot water will wash away the tension. During which you are mid shampoo and abruptly interrupted by doors repeatedly slamming again and again on the adjoining wall. Making huge "banging" sounds that feel as if they will punch a hole through the drywall. The door slamming being done be your sweet, beautiful toddlers, and a your sweet four year old. The same angels that have been fighting, yelling and stealing toys, pulling hair, and swiping sippy cups all morning. Do you ever feel like even when you give everything you have it still may not be enough. Yeah, me too. Then I look at my sleepy-eyed Little Beauties. Ever so quiet. Asleep in their beds. Tiny baby tushies up in the air, knees tucked under their tummies. Softly sucking on their fifis. Skin so fair in the night-lite beam. I watch Chloe snuggled in bed. So peaceful. So beautiful. So innocent. I am reminded of how wonderful each and every single moment is. Makes me ready to tackle another day of chaos tomorrow. I'm ready...are you in too.

2nd practice

Wow! Can I be any more excited! I am a Old Capital City Roller Girl. Can I get a Hell Yea? Tonight was my second practice...well kind of...still waiting for my skates. But I am learning so much and not even skating yet. So much fun. Such a diverse team of Gals. We mesh so well together. We are still learning the fundamentals, falling, stance, skating, endurance drills, jams, checks...and did I mention a great workout. If you are in the Iowa City area and interested, let me know we are recruiting!

My Very First Bloggy Award

I received my very first award!

I was given the award by my Bloggy friend Alicia over at Two B's and Me

Thank you do much! I feel so loved!

So, here are the rules to receiving this award:

1. You have to pass it on to 5 other fabulous blogs in a post.

2. You have to list 5 of your fabulous addictions in the post.

3. You must copy and paste the rules and the instructions below in the post.

Instructions:

On your post of receiving this award, make sure you include the person that gave you the award and link it back to them.

When you post your five winners, make sure you link them as well.

To add the award to your post, simply right-click, save image, then "add image" it in your post as a picture so your winners can save it as

To add it to your sidebar, add the "picture" gadget.

Also, don't forget to let your winners know they won an award from you by emailing them or leaving a comment on their blog.

My Five Fabulous Addictions

1. My Little Beauties. I cannot get enough of them, They are the most amazing part of every single day.

2. Blogging. A new found addiction...but my husband keeps talking about Bloggers Anonymous if that tells you anything.

3. Ice Cream. (Explains itself I think)

4. Java House. It's a great locally owned coffee shop. I haven't found a java there I haven't completely enjoyed! Great desserts too!

5. Snuggles and Sleep. I could stay in bed all day with Matty or any of the Beauties! I love sleep and cuddling and never get enough of either of them! Ahh and girl can "dream" can't she?

I pass this award to my 5 Fabulous Bloggy Buddies:

1. Molly at my cuttie pies

2. Rachel at little bits of heaven

3. Rachel at Pretty in Pink

4. Valerie at Please don't put those beans up your nose

5. Jen at Rudd Party of 5

Sugar Mommy loves your Blog Gals!

Sugar Mommy = Derby Girl

I am now an Old Capital City Roller Girl! As of tonight! I am so darn excited about it! I had my first practice tonight. I am fairly sure I WILL be sore tomorrow, and I don't even have my own skates yet. I will update and keep you posted on more information...but I had to share! Can you tell I am so pumped to be an official Derby Girl!

If you are a follower of this blog, be sure to check out Little Miracles. It is my most updated blog site. If you are interested in what the Beauties are doing. That is the site to follow.

Thankful Thursday

It's Thankful Thursday hosted by KD at a http://abitsquirrelly.blogspot.com. Check out her blog and join in.

Six things that bring me joy...

1. The Little Beauties smiles, laughter, hugs and kisses, smell, sleepy faces...okay, who am I kidding...everything about my beauties brings me joy...

2. Cuddling with Stinky.

3. Java House.

4. A great pedicure...done by someone else.

5. A good book or a clean house...this is a tie...too close to call.

Priceless

What did you do today?

A man came home from work and found his four children outside, still in their pajamas, playing in the mud, with empty food boxes and wrappers strewn all around the front yard.

The door of his wife's car was open, as was the front door to the house and there was no sign of the dog. Proceeding into the entry, he found an even bigger mess. A lamp had been knocked over, and the throw rug was wadded against one wall.

In the front room the TV was on loudly with the cartoon channel, and the family room was strewn with toys and various items of clothing.

In the kitchen, dishes filled the sink, breakfast food was spilled on the counter, the fridge door was open wide, dog food was spilled on the floor, a broken glass lay under the table, and a small pile of sand was spread by the back door.

He quickly headed up the stairs, stepping over toys and more piles of clothes, looking for his wife. He was worried she might be ill, or that something serious had happened.

He was met with a small trickle of water as it made its way out the bathroom door. As he peered inside he found wet towels, scummy soap and more toys strewn over the floor. Miles of toilet paper lay in a heap and toothpaste had been smeared over the mirror and walls.

As he rushed to the bedroom, he found his wife still curled up in the bed in her pajamas, reading a novel. She looked up at him, smiled and asked how his day went..

He looked at her bewildered and asked, 'What happened here today?' She again smiled and answered, 'You know every day when you come home from work and you ask me what in the world I do all day? ''Yes,” was his incredulous reply. She answered, 'Well, today I didn't do it.'

Priceless

Tag...I'm it!

Chloe just before her second Christmas. She just found out that she didn't get EVERYTHING she wanted...haha

I HAVE BEEN TAGGED by my new friend Rachel

This is what you have to do.......
1. Go to your pictures
2. Upload the 4th picture of the 4th folder
3. Post it
4. Tag 4 of my friends

Tag...you're it...

1. Molly

2. Rachel

3. Nik

4. Tara

Thanks Rachel!

Halloween Yummies

Sugar Mommy's Treat
The Little Boo-ties Treats

The Little Boo-ties ready to trick.

Check out www.LittleBeauties.blogspot.com for more photos of Halloween night.

My first TAG...

I have been tagged by by friend Rachel

1. I have a super bionic nose. Seriously...I can smell everything.

2. I hate onions.

3. I wanted to be an astronaut when I was a child.

4. My biggest pet peeve is when someone drinks from the milk jug. I would rather share a toothbrush than drink milk after someone has tongued the opening. (Yes, Matt is guilty.)

4. I love a man in uniform. (My husband is a Police Officer.)

5. I can sleep anywhere, anytime.

6. My best friend and I met in 7th grade.

7. I aspire to be a writer.

So tag! You're it!

1. Jennifer

2. Molly
3. Kristi

4. Jaclyn

5. Heidi

6. Valerie

7. Kathy

Save Second Base

Matty showing the Top Ten...Why to do your self breast exams...Yes my hubby does look great in pink doesn't he.
Keri, Sugar Mommy and Ande posing...say cheese.

Matty posing...

Sugar Mommy posing...

Molly=Survivor=my BFF

Saturday night was a fun filled Mommy's (and Daddy's) evening out. Of course we did some birthday celebrating...but we also went out to celebrate for another very special reason. As I have mentioned before, my BFF of almost 20 years is a Breast Cancer Survivor. She was diagnosed in May of this year with Stage 1 Breast Cancer. (At the ripe ole age of 31.) She has been through HELL over the last few months. Finishing her chemotherapy treatment and is now almost finished with radiation. We celebrated her battle and her long life ahead of her. We designed tee-shirts and donated monies raised to others battling this horrible disease. We headed out (for many of us) on our very first pub crawl. October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, so it was the perfect time to spread the knowledge about keeping your tatas healthy. It was a lot of fun. We shared many laughs, some tears and some adult beverages. Raise a glass and share a toast to Molly! May your life be long, full of good health, and many more wonderful memories.

Quiet time

I learned Thursday morning that if you have to make a visit to the emergency room. 6 am is the best time to go. Really, it is so quiet there. All the staff was super friendly, and I was in and out in just under 2 hours. I hadn't been feeling very well, and in the middle of the night felt really really bad. I will spare the informational details and just say that during my trip to the ER I learned I have a bad uti/bladder infection. Long story short, I have been on antibiotics for 36 hours and I am feeling so much better. The nurse that was caring for me was really nice. She was amazed (to say the least) that I had triplets. We agreed that while the labs were being sent I would enjoy the "quiet time." It's bad when you have to go to the ER to enjoy the "quiet".

Cause

Saturday night is a special occasion! It is the "Save the Tatas" pub crawl. In honor of my BFF finishing chemotherapy and being half way finished with radiation treatments. We are having a night out on the town to celebrate boobies! I am so excited. What a great day to celebrate...What a great cause to celebrate for. October is Breast Cancer Awareness month...so in the words of my BFF, "Get them Checked Girls! You don't need a reason to feel your boobies!"

National Day of Remembrance

October 15th-National Day of Remembrance. A day when we remember the loss so many families have had to endure. Miscarriage, Stillbirth, SIDS, Prematurity, Complications. The loss of a precious child. Please visit the site above, Bring the Rain, to join a heart warming prayer chain. What a beautiful reason.
As I stare into the little faces of of beautiful daughters, I take comfort knowing that the Lord has a plan for us. All of us. No matter how difficult that is to see, to feel, to understand, HE understands. I will never forget the path (or the hill to be exact)Matt and I took to be where we are today. We lost three pregnancies. Three babies we will never hold in our loving arms, yet hold so tightly within our hearts. I still feel the ache, I still cry and am filled with tears, especially on days like today. I do take comfort in knowing that my unborn babies are resting in the hands of the Lord. I do take pride in that the Lord chose me to be their Mommy. Even though at the time I was so filled with sorrow I could not understand it. I praise HIM everyday for the four Little Beauties I am so privileged to hold in my arms and within my heart everyday. I have found peace that He knew that Chloe, Jocelyn, Farrah and Silvie needed to be here with me to complete his mission for their lives. I trust that someday I will meet my unborn babies, all four of them, and they will embrace me as their mother. I am confident that all that I have endured makes me a better Mommy. It makes me a stronger woman. It lead me back into the arms of the Lord. Today, however, it is okay for me to think. It is okay for me to cry and for my heart to ache. Also a day to smile and know that my Little Angels are playing happily in Heaven. May the Lord bless ALL of my Little Beauties, both in Heaven and on Earth. May God bless all the Little Babies and the families that keep them within their arms and within their hearts. I remember your loss and I pray for you today.

Thank You

If the sun refused to shine, I would still be loving you.
When mountains crumble to the sea, there will still be you and me.
Kind woman, I give you my all, Kind woman, nothing more.
Little drops of rain whisper of the pain, tears of loves lost in the days gone by.
My love is strong, with you there is no wrong,together we shall go until we die.
My, my, my.
An inspiration is what you are to me, inspiration, look... see.
And so today, my world it smiles, your hand in mine, we walk the miles, Thanks to you it will be done, for you to me are the only one.
Happiness, no more be sad, happiness....I'm glad.
If the sun refused to shine, I would still be loving you.
When mountains crumble to the sea, there will still be you and me.

"Thank You"
artist Led Zeppelin

Simple and True. This was the song that was sung during our wedding ceremony, while we lit the unity candle. My good friend Heather said..."Kimberly, the only gal I know who would have a Zeppelin song sung in her wedding." But in my defense, the words are very powerful, and speak volumes about Matt and I. So "Thank You" to the band for writing such a great tune.

Six Years for Sugar and Stinky

Happy Anniversary to my Stinky! (yesterday)
Have I told you lately that I love you? Have I told you there's no one above you? You fill my heart with gladness, take away my sadness, ease my troubles, that's what you do.
Six years since the day we said "I Do". I still "do" more and more everyday!
You are my husband, my best friend, the father of our beautiful daughters, my support, my hero, my rock, my soul mate, my prince charming, my balance, my everything!
I LOVE YOU STINKY! Here's to a lifetime of memories together.

I want a new Mommy!

I knew I would hear those words someday. However, I didn't think I would hear them when Chloe was only four. This morning began in the wee morning hours while I was up with Jocelyn. She didn't feel like sleeping last night. Maybe she misses her Daddy. Maybe she just needed some extra cuddle time. Big Sis was less than thrilled about it. She is still not sleeping in her own bed. Her nighttime resting place is in our bed. I wish there was an easy solution to this problem. The sleeping with us began, as many of you know, when she was a baby. We were doing pretty well there for a while, getting her to at least go to bed at night in her bed. (Us laying down with her of course.) She would stay in bed for a few hours and then come downstairs to crawl in bed with us. It seems lately that we cannot even get her to stay in her bed for a short time. It also seems that even when she sleeps with us,she senses immediately when we exit the bed and leave the room. As soon as we leave the room, she wakes and starts to cry. She says she is scared. We have resorted to taking her to bed with us every night. I know this is a bad habit. A bad habit that we cannot seem to break. We have tried SO MANY things to break the cycle. Ticket game, prizes, flat out bribery. It will not work with her. This morning she freaked at about 5 am, when I went to pick up sobbing Jocelyn. After getting her calm and placing her back in her bed, Chloe literally clung to me for the next three hours. Saying she was afraid I was going to leave her alone again. The morning spiraled from there. Silvie had a doctors appointment this morning in reference to her hair falling out. (The doctor said that it seemed to be nothing to worry about, the hair is already beginning new growth. It seems she is pulling it out herself. She said that this can happen in some kids.) When Silvie and I arrived back home, Chloe began where we left off...crying and upset about anything and everything. After lunch (which she refused to eat) it was time to get ready for her to go to school. The words followed me asking her and then telling her to go brush her teeth. (This is a yet another battle. She hates brushing her teeth and will not do it alone.) After I firmly instructed teeth brushing, and told her she could not go to school without brushing them, she replied with, and I quote, "I want a new Mommy! You are a mean Mommy!" My come back was "I still love you and it makes me sad that you want a new Mommy." She then began crying, sobbing rather and said she was sorry for being a bad kid. I gave her a hug and told her that she is not a bad kid, and that I love her no matter what. Tears come to my eyes just thinking about it. I am not sure what I am doing wrong,what I can do differently. I wish some lightning bolt would strike and the answer would come to me. I want her to be secure, to be confident. What point do I become concerned that she maybe too sensitive? Why is she scared of being in another room without me? Our home is a comfortable one. Small and cozy. I can hear what is going on in any room no matter where in the house I am. How do you explain that to a four year old? We arrived at school, she was excited to see her friends and play. After I returned to the van, I cried. All the way home I cried. I love her with my entire being. It makes me ache that something is bothering her and I cannot figure out how to fix it.

Tie-Dyed

Our new shirts...pumpkin oragnge tie-dye.

Here are some photos of the finished work. Chloe and I tie-dyed. (With a little help.)

Thanks Gramma
I was unable to get any shots of us in action...
I think they turned out pretty well. Although Jocelyn's face doesn't back that up.
Didn't even have any tie dyed furniture. Probably because the Littlest Beauties weren't helping with the process.

I miss you Stinky

Stinky left last night. No he didn't leave me. Haha very funny. Just left for school in Des Moines for the week. It's the Little Beauties and Mommy for the entire week. The week is off to a good start! The Beauties slept in until 8:30 this morning and they are in the middle of a napper right now. Miss Chloe and I have been busy coloring Halloween pictures. We are digging craft time these days. I think we may pick up some supplies and do some Halloween t-shirt tie-dying tomorrow. Not sure...maybe that idea would classify me as crazy. We must keep busy I say.

Suggestions welcome

Happy Friday to you. I am so enjoying this fall weather! I must say though I do miss my BFF...hope you miss me too.

Matt and I have been talking about the purchase of a new camera. "Talking" being the keyword. More like wishing on my part. The other night I wanted to throw the good ole "pos" camera we have in the trash...every shot I took was 2 seconds too late, or blurred or both! The beauty of a point and shoot style. Anyway, we have been looking and comparing different D-SLR cameras. Obviously, a lot of research needs to be put forth before the purchase. We will not be making another camera purchase for a very long time. He surprised me the other night, and said he would like me to start looking more seriously. When I questioned why...he said he had been saving overtime money and he and the Little Beauties would like to "give" me a new camera for my birthday in a few weeks. I am so excited! So long story short, we have been looking and comparing and looking and comparing some more! I would LOVE to hear pros/cons/suggestions on models that you may be familiar with/own/want. Please...tell me what you can...

Follow Me

Blogger has added a new gadget. Followers. Just click and add yourself to followers. So excited to see who is reading and visiting regularly.

Thunder

I love thunderstorms. The crackles. The boomers. The heavy rain. Trees swaying heavy branches. I love when they begin in the middle of the night. 4 am style. My favorite.

Overtime

I have a love-hate relationship with overtime. Stinky has been on "vacation" since the 17th of September. Seems like it always goes by the speed of light. Between sick kids and weddings and the mile long "honey-do" list, we have barely had time to high five each other in passing. He has been working some overtime in dispatch to help when they are under staffed. Last night he worked overtime on patrol (GTSB-which he really enjoys). At first I was a bit miffed, I miss him, but then he asked if I would like to come out and ride along...ahh yeah...of course I do. Back in my dispatching days I used to love to ride with the deputies and cruise the county. Tonight was no different, except, I was riding with my husband...okay...it was a little different...better! It was a great experience to see him at work. I admire him so very much. It enforces many of the qualities that I fell in love with...sorry...had a moment there...but really, my love-hate relationship with overtime was further to the love end last night. I was able to see him at work, keeping the streets a little safer, (as we used to say in dispatch...right Meleah?) We went to an accident, made traffic stops, assisted motorists, and arrested a OWI. In addition, I was out of the house, quiet time (sort of). I even brushed up on my map reading skills...yeah...I still have it! Maybe back to dispatch some day? Overtime...a new found warm fuzzy.

Congratulations Tree and Keri

Matt's good friend "Tree" is a married man now! His bride Keri is a sweet gal. They are like peas and carrots. The festivities began Friday night in Lisbon! The Crown Regal Reception hall was the venue. (If you are getting married in Lisbon, this is a FINE establishment.) After the rehearsal and dinner, we moved the pre-party to Whitey's, also in Lisbon. Matty and the rest of the groomsmen tied a good one on. It was loads of fun. Even for me the sober driver. Had to get my hubby home somehow...haha...cheers to Tree and Keri and one last night of "Freedom."

The festivities really began the next day as last minute things were done. Ahem...hungover? Yes...I think there were a few that fit this category. Hair of the dog they say. It was a beautiful day for a wedding. Matt looked mighty fine in his monkey suit. The ceremony and reception were well underway. There was drinking and eating and dancing. Such fun! After the party came to an end, Matt and I escaped (in Mt. Vernon) to a private retreat for the night. A suite for two, complete with a hot tub! I even told Matt I wanted to live there. Seriously...it was really nice. We slept in until 10:30...together even. What a fabulous weekend.

Saturday Night Fever

One too Many

We went out on Saturday night. We do not do that very often. It was Heather and Mala's last night in town. Not that we really needed a reason. We headed to a local watering hole, the one we seem to always go to when we do have an adult night away. It was a bit crowded due to the football game...yes...we won...but not too crowded to have a few (too many) drinks. We sat outside in the front garden patio. It was a little warm for my liking, but even warmer inside the bar. We talked and laughed and drank. We practiced rolling our tongues, I'm not sure why, other than Molly cannot roll hers, and we enjoy taunting her. We sipped a few shots and attempted to get the DJ to play Gloria Gaynor (I will Survive!) He didn't that beeping jerk! We also had a lot of fun flipping the bird to the camera operator...hmmm, again I am not sure. We even ended up on the dance floor at the end of the evening. This is s VERY big step for some of us. I am known as the "little girl in the cheetah dress" on the dance floor. (Long and embarrassing story...another time or maybe not.) We ended up at my BFF's and I finally was able to get a cab home at 3:30am. Molly slept in her clothes and Clint mopped the floor. It was a long night...but Sunday was the really long day. Hangover with 4 kids...UGH! It was good times and fun memories, we did however decide we need to do it more often so we don't feel like we have to make up for lost time! Everything in moderation.

Tired

I am tired. Really tired. I think it is a cold coming on. Maybe too much excitement in the last week. Too many adult beverages. Change in the weather maybe. High pollen count. Not sure the cause. The result, I'm tired.

2x2x2x2

It was a girls getaway. More specific, an adult girls getaway. My BFF Molly, Heather and Mala headed East to Chicago on Sunday morning. Heather and Mala are here to visit (they live in San Diego). We left town with some directions on how to get there well sort of. We arrived in Cordova and decided to fill up the tank and eat breakfast. While fueling, I decided to ask some "locals" for directions, because the way we were headed seemed a bit "off". The were in fact a lot "off". After receiving some new directions, we asked about the local eating establishment and the answer we received was, "well I ain't got the diarrhea yet." Hmmm that sounds a bit shady, nasty, disgusting, too much information if I ever heard it. But, we decided we were hungry enough to check it out for ourselves. Breakfast was FANTASTIC! We all ordered pretty much the same thing...2x2x2x2 everyone differing a little bit. Cute really. We hit the highway after we finished and made great time. We only got lost once or twice. Strangely, we didn't see any hospitals either. Which concerned Mala a great deal! "Can you tell me where the f$#@ we are? And by the way, do you have any grey poupon?" When we figured out the location of Navy Pier, which was right under our noses the entire time we were looking for it, we parked and then I lost the car keys. Seriously. We found them after a mild panic attack on the back seat, right where I set them. In my defense, the parking garage was really dark. We walked Navy Pier all afternoon. Drinking Mojitos and Pina Coladas (they were strong and yummy), riding the 150 foot Ferris wheel. Laughing and basking in great conversation. We ate lunch at a Mexican cafe and headed back to the car. We began the search for a hotel room for the night. We decided to call some hotels in the informational brochures we had picked up from the Pier. We checked about 6 different places before the sillies set in. As I talked with guest services at one of the last places I called, I asked about rates. They asked the number in the party. I stretched the truth a teeny bit saying 2. Guest services then asked if we would prefer a king bed or 2 beds. I said whatever was cheaper. The rest of the car began chuckling. The king was cheaper, so I asked about a roll-away bed. They said they could do this for $10.00 extra. This for some reason made all of us laugh uncontrollably. In the pursuit of trying to get a good rate on the room we attempted to use Molly's Federal Employee ID and the guest services kept asking if we were in town on business or pleasure? After the 3rd time being asked that, the answer came out "our business is pleasure". It was so funny to us in fact I almost wet my pants and I was forced to end the conversation because he could not understand me I was laughing so hard! I do not think the gentleman on the other end thought it was that funny. That was the end of the calling for moi. Molly called a few more places and finally we found a room for a fantastic rate in downtown Chicago. The service there was great and we only saw a few freakish things and the bathroom was a bit moldy. But hey, it worked and was in walking distance to the Magnificent Mile. Split four ways it was just over $50.00! Heather had to pretend she was 17, but what a great rate! We decided to have Chicago style pizza for dinner after getting settled into the room. We headed to Gino's East. It was a cute little pizzeria with graffiti covering EVERYTHING. Our server was friendly. Maybe a bit too friendly, offering us way more information about his sex life than any of us cared to know. Seriously. We had rather disturbing images of him. The food was fab and the drinks were yummy too. After dinner we took Heather captive and made her go with us on the horse carriage. We took a thirty minute tour around the downtown area. Yes...we looked like tourists, oh well it was fun and relaxing. Our horse's name was Oprah. We fondled some wooden statues and laughed some more. After that we headed to the hotel to rest up for the big shopping excursion the following day. We slept in until 8:30. (Yes, that is sleeping in for some of us.) First stop, Disney Store. Chloe and Olivia made out quite well! I almost got in a fight with a rude man in a suit. We ate brunch at a restaurant called Eat the World Cafe. Such a cool place! Many different choices for food, all in one place. You can mix and match, pick and choose. Really great food! Ate too much, way too much. We walked off all the extra calories shopping the day away. Running in and out of the rain. It rained all day. We still had a great time. We ate dinner at the Hard Rock. Well we ate appetizers and had a drink. Hot Asian buns...mmmm. We walked back to the hotel to retrieve the car and start Iowa bound. We left the city right at 5:00...hmmm maybe not the best time to leave, in the middle of rush hour traffic. Molly and I were introduced to the Nintendo DS...yeah another thing to occupy time we don't have. So much fun to exercise the brain though. I think Molly and I may be finding the funds to invest in one. Thanks Mala for turning us into addicts. I drove the last stretch home, as Heather started to see horses! We arrived in town around 10:30 said goodbyes and gave hugs. What a great trip. Full of laughs, conversation, food, drink and best of all memories. Sorry we didn't find a hot dog vendor with sourcrotch, Mala. Next time.

New Experience

So, I had a new experience today...you know me...thought I would share.
We went to the mall today. As we were walking along, I notice a new kiosk that has taken up shop. "Eyebrow Threading". Due to the fact that I am always in need of an eyebrow plucking...my attention focused. As I approached the beautiful Indian (I am pretty sure she was Indian) woman, I ask her how "threading works" she proceeds to show me on my arm. Ah... yeah...sign me up...so I sit in the chair, yes, in the middle of the fricking mall, and have my brows and upper lip (yeah I am one of those lucky gals) threaded. I had 2 people walk right up to "view" my experience, which was MUCH MUCH better than a normal wax, however, talk about an invasion of private space. I told the woman that they needed a bit more of a private area to perform the procedure in. I told her if it were more private I could assure more people would stop to have the service rendered on their faces. You know...so that EVERYONE walking by wasn't free to watch "where you remove hair from!" Anyway...I am the mother of four I have no shame...I did it right there in the middle of the mall! And I will do it again! Awesome...that's the only word I can come up with. Less pain, no redness or swelling. Not to mention...not sure what your salon charges, but mine is getting a bit on the GREEDY side for facial waxing. (I pay almost $30.00 with a tip.) This cost me MUCH MUCH less.

It's 3:00 am

Yes, I am awake. I had a little restler. I think Jocelyn. So I decided to catch up on my posts. I am very behind. I have been trying to post everyday or at least every other day. good for me. Keeps my brain working. We had a good holiday weekend. Spent time with both of our families, and each other. Which was much overdue. I am getting geared up for my "mini-girls-getaway" this weekend to Chicago! Whoo Hoot! I am so excited! My BFF Molly and I am going to head out with our good friends Heather and Mala. They are coming into town from San Diego for a holiday. We are going to relax...yes, I said relax, eat good food and enjoy each others company for a couple days. We are road tripping to the windy city on a quest to find a Chi Town hot dog for Mala...This was on her list of tops she wanted to do in Chicago...I think we can manage that. Can't wait to see you gals...

Calgon...take me away...

Do you every think that something sounds like a great idea and as you go forth with it, you realize that maybe you should have thought it threw a bit more intensely. I have learned NEVER EVER tell your four-year-old that you "maybe"will do something. Unless of course, you know for positive that you are going to be able to do it. I made that mistake today. We headed out this morning to the rec center/park for tot time. Due to maintenance indoors, tot time was canceled and we decided to hit the outdoor play area. Which would have been great except for the 3 inches of rain that fell last night...creating muddy sand, mud puddles and wet grass. No I am not a clean freak...wait...yes I am. I have learned to let go of that a bit...however, I have three toddlers. There is s a reason they are called toddlers, and it is not because they walk gracefully. The triplets were able to swing a bit, and I did let them cruise around on foot, but the grass was gross, wet and muddy and I HATE sand! They were less than thrilled about going back into the stroller. I admit I am anal, but I have the right I guess. Three is two more than one and I was not in the mood to throw in an extra round of baths today! Every other day is plenty for me. Chloe was soaked head to toe and her shoes full of wet sand. Gross. We decided to venture to the ped mall and have a grilled cheese for lunch. Here is where the mistake comes into play. I mentioned to Chloe that we might (stressing on the "might" part) be able to run in the fountain after lunch and "IF" she was a good listener. You can imagine her excitement. Downtown was a bit crazy. Lots of people, students, workers and just your general public...starring at us...as usual. Just didn't seem to have the tolerance for it today. I am getting better with that too. Some days though I just want to take my children out and be normal, not a public scene. The listening skills were even less than I expected, so you guessed it by now...we did not run in the fountain. Instead, we had a tantrum all the way to the van. A literal meltdown. I feel in my heart I did the right thing, by not rewarding unwanted behaviors. I did not reward the non-listening. Let's face it, the type of listening I am talking about is, "stay with Mommy, please do not run too far ahead of me and please hold on to my hand or the stroller as we cross the busy street." All rules I feel well within her range of understanding. Not new rules. Not a surprise that I would tell her these things. However our ears needed a cleaning today. I felt like a horrible parent who had not an ounce of control. Embarrassing. Tiring. Frustrating. So we came home. She was fine as soon as we were in the van. All was forgotten and the fountain a distant memory. I know the onlookers will not remember us (I hope) and I know I am a good Mommy who is usually patient. But today I sure could have used a tub filled with warm sudsy water and a glass...ahem...bottle...of wine and maybe a sedative or three.

More Time

Some days go by quickly and others seem to go at a normal pace. Some days I cannot seem to find enough time to fit it all in. Scratch that...I mean everyday I seem to not be able to fit it all in. I have good intentions. I am a semi-organizer person. Organized chaos that is. If I could just clone myself (think that movie Multiplicity) to do all the things I wish did themselves. Laundry, dishes, grocery shopping, shaving my legs...you know all the stuff that is a giant pain in the a&$. But I can't so I just complain about it. It makes me feel better. Sometimes. Well, maybe not. Nope, I don't feel better. When Chloe was a baby I was a fly by the seat of my pants kind of Mommy. We went. We did. Things just always seemed to get done. We had no schedule. She slept when she slept and she ate when she was hungry. No specifics. When the triplets graced my world. It took me almost a year...but they are on a schedule. Naps. Meals. Bedtime. Schedule. However, I still to this day, sometimes do not get a shower until night. Hmm. Where can I schedule in that shower? Maybe I can do the dishes and the laundry in the shower and skip shaving my legs? It just might work...

Attempt

I keep trying to get myself into fitness mode. I have been doing it for almost a year now. I stopped breastfeeding the triplets the last week of May. Instead of losing weight, I lost my boobies and gained more weight somewhere else. I try to pay attention to what I am eating. The girls eat well balanced meals and snacks. Well, the girls meaning the triplets, Chloe doesn't eat much of anything. I try to stay clear of things I know I should stay clear of, most of the time I do fairly well. Those that know me, know that I am ALWAYS moving. Up, down, back, forth, chasing one, picking up one, holding another. All day everyday. So it's not like I am sitting around watching soaps and eating bon bons. I am still trying to lose...well...I am not going to go there with how much...but let's just say trying to lose a significant amount. I am out walking with the girls several days a week. Although we never seem to get far, or go very quickly. Someone is always throwing a button, or a sippy cup from the stroller, or collecting a clover flower from a yard, or picking up a pretty rock. Oh, I work up a good sweat all right. By the time we arrive back home, I am exhausted and usually frustrated, because the girls are ready to get out of the stroller. Thinking to myself, yep another day where I didn't seem to get in a "real workout" but feel too tired to do anything more about it. I am inspired by other mothers of multiples and singletons who look FAN-FRICKIN-TASTIC. I envy you and I truly want to be there. Amongst the fit and beautiful Mommies. I want to be healthy and have more energy! I want my four beautiful girls AND my old body! Why can't I have both?

Days

We all have those days. Today has been one of them.

Woman

I have decided that I want to become a writer. I have decided I want to become a photographer. I have decided I want to be a role model. I have decided I want to be an inventor. I have decided I want to become a professional something...maybe someday. I have decided I LOVE being a wife. I have decided I LOVE being a mommy. I have decided I LOVE the choice of being able to be at home with my girls. I have decided I love being able to wake them up, and be here at night when their heads are sleepy. I have decided I love looking into my little girls' eyes and watching them sparkle. I have decided that I cannot imagine life without them. I have decided that I will support them in what ever choices they make throughout their lives, even the difficult ones. I have decided I hope they will feel the love that I feel for them someday when they have a child of their own. I have decided that my husband is STILL the man of my dreams. I have decided there are not very many like him. I have decided it is amazing the way we have grown together. I have decided that I cannot imagine my life without him at my side. I have decided that no matter how overwhelming the day may feel, I am blessed and I am happy. I have decided that I wouldn't change one single thing about my life. I have decided that even though I have made my share of mistakes, those mistakes have taken me to where I am today. I have decided to be a good friend. I have decided to smile even when I could cry. I have decided life is so fragile. I have decided that Cancer sucks. I have decided that God has a path for each and every single one of us. I have decided that sometimes that path is so very difficult. I have decided that it is okay to question that path.I have decided that a true friend is so sacred. I have decided that sometimes it helps to scream out loud. I have decided to live everyday like it may be the last. I have decided to be forgiving. I have decided to cherish all that I have. I have decided that I know what true happiness is. I have decided that I am thankful. I have decided that I LOVE being a woman.