Team Taylor

Love.

2011-03-03T20:37:00.002-05:00

It breaks my heart.
Love. (period)
That's it. Just love.
It's the subject, the verb, the adjective, the adverb... it's everything.

Love.
It's motherhood
Children
Family
Belly Laughs
Giggles
Tears
Dimples
Hugs that are too tight
Kisses with extra-puckered lips
Secrets
Lessons (hard, hard lessons)
Pizza on random Tuesday nights
LOTS of math (4th grade math is hard.)
Singing (loud and off-key)
Reading I'll Love You Forever and not being able to get through it without tears (and not "sweet tears", big loud hiccupy, sobbing tears)
Giving an Emmy worthy performance during the 516th reading of Green Eggs and Ham
Songs after bath time
Snuggles at 5 am
Pinkie promises (over silly nothing, and very important everything)
Uncomfortable conversations
Being there. (Wherever there happens to be.)

It's now
It's then
It's someday
It's always
It's forever (the real, tangible forever)

It means there will never be enough words... so why try?
Love.
It says it all

Love.

Brotherly Love

2011-02-24T21:10:00.004-05:00

"I love you man!"

"Yea, you're not so bad yourself."

Rub-A-Dub-Dub 3 Cousins in a Tub!

2011-02-21T12:51:00.003-05:00

Dear Other Mother,

2011-02-06T20:57:00.004-05:00

It's hard to make me really angry. I don't "do" angry very well. I'm a passive person. I hate confrontation. I avoid it at all costs. But I will never, ever avoid it with your or your child. Consider yourself warned.

It was just a scratch. Just a scratch that reached from her delicate little elbow, down the entire length of her forearm and half-way across her perfect second finger. "Just a scratch" that swelled, angry and red. "Just a scratch" that cut across her perfectly smooth skin with little beads of blood fighting their way through. "Just a scratch" that a ten year old boy put on my daughter. Not by accident. Not in a sports situation or during playground craziness.

A scratch that was meant to get her attention. He has a "crush" on her. She was talking to the girls outside of church... giving him very minimal attention. So he "lightly hit her arm" and then SCRATCHED her to get her attention.

Another girl (his SISTER) went to get an adult. The adult got his mother. She told him to apologize. No one said a word to me. Until halfway home from Sunday school when my little girl told me a boy hurt her. I am stunned by this. STUNNED. That this woman, this MOTHER, felt no need to talk to me... to apologize... to assure me it would never happen again... nothing.

Maybe I'm overreacting... but I don't' think I am.
In fact, I'm willing to put myself out on a Mom ledge and say I'm not.
Because it's not okay. It's NOT okay for a boy to put his hands on my daughter. It's NOT okay for her to be hurt and then for it to be pacified because he "likes her".
ARE YOU KIDDING ME??? That is one of the most disgusting excuses I've ever heard. So excuse me, mother who thinks it's okay for your TEN YEAR OLD SON to hurt girls, don't feed that line to my daughter.

Don't you DARE imply to my daughter that if a boy likes her he might hurt her... that it's okay if he didn't mean to hurt her. Maybe you're only looking at the here-and-now. Maybe you aren't concerned about the future... five years from now, or ten, or fifteen. I AM.

I am doing my best to raise a strong, confident girl who will know that it is NEVER, EVER okay for anyone to put their hands on her.
I don't ever want her to make an excuse for someone putting her through pain.
I want her to know her worth.
I have devoted years and will devote many, many more years of my life to teaching her that people who "like her" or love her will treat her like she is precious and will protect and care for her.

I'm not "one of those moms" who overreacts at every little thing. I'm really not. I picked up my three year old from preschool on Friday to find a swollen eye and bloody spot on his cheek. THIS was a playground "accident"... a learning experience. Another three year old who hasn't mastered impulse control hit him (four times!!) with a bucket. I kissed him. I put a band aid on his face. I lathered him with Neosporin and Mederma . I did not overreact. I told the teacher "they are only three"... "these things happen" (and I took comfort and satisfaction in her anger and assurance that they would not let it happen again.) I did not overreact.

(...And for the record both of my three year old boys can explain to you that "girls are delicate" and that "boys have to be careful with girls".)

However, if your obnoxious son, or anyone else for that matter, EVER puts his hands on my daughter again I promise to overreact.
I promise to make a BIG, HUGE deal about it.

Start parenting.
Start talking to your son about boundaries, and appropriateness, and maybe even the definition of assault.
Talk to him about how to be a gentleman.
Teach him how to show a girl he likes her without hurting her.
Teach him to be kind.
Teach him to be witty.
Teach him something!!

And if you can't manage this, just teach him to keep his paws off my daughter because I won't dissipate my anger with blogging next time.

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-23T13:27:00.003-05:00

Lots of updating to do soon! I'm hoping to "catch up" this year before next year starts :) Get ready for lots of random posts!

But today is full of wrapping, & baking... getting ready to soak up the people I love the most for a few special days. Happy Holidays!

My Uncle

2010-12-16T13:50:00.002-05:00

Family.

I am very blessed to have a wonderful family. I have a loving husband. I have beautiful children. I have amazing parents. I have a sister, cousins, aunts, and uncles. I’m lucky to be a Ward and even though my last name might have changed the Ward blood that pulses through my veins means I GET IT. I get family. I know what it means and what it’s worth. And I believe that started with Jimmy.

Jimmy made family a verb.

It’s not a noun. A noun can be passive. It can just be there in the background. Jimmy made sure that Wards knew that family is never passive. It’s never “in the background”.

It’s what you DO. It’s being there. Physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Family is laughing and arguing. It’s Baptisms and Thanksgivings. It’s long train rides to visit little brothers in an orphanage. It’s carving out a little part of the world, keeping it safe, and making it sacred.

Over 50 years ago Jimmy made a decision to be a family. There was nothing passive about it. He did it on purpose. He decided that no matter how difficult a road it might be, or how many odds were stacked against him, he was going to keep his little family of brothers together. Maybe not in a physical way, but in the way that really matters.
I believe that decision was the driving force ….

Four brothers that Jimmy decided would remain FAMILY. The four Ward brothers each had successful careers and happy marriages. These four brothers were the devoted fathers of 10 children (and I have been blessed to be one of them). Four brothers who watched the 10 children make their first communions, play baseball, graduate college, get married, and begin raising a new generation of 25 children (so far).

Three of those children are mine. Jimmy’s decision over 50 years ago has shaped my little family in so many ways. I truly believe my journey to motherhood… to Kirsten… began when Jimmy was 18 years old.

Today I’m sad. But when I think about Jimmy I’m going to smile. I’m going to remember the pure delight he took in watching my son’s temper tantrum last Christmas… the letter that my dad wrote to Jimmy while he was in Vietnam… thanking him for money and politely asking him to send more … I’m going to remember how he called Kirsten “the baby” for so many years and how filled with love and pride those two words sounded. I’m going to continue trying to be like Jimmy… continue holding the people I love close… continue thanking God for the DECISION of family he made and the gifts he gave us all through that decision.

Snuggle Up and Read!

2010-12-13T19:34:00.003-05:00

There are So many things I love about my new school! I love being in the same building with my girl all day everyday. I love my students and colleagues. AND I love being in such a happy, child centered environment. This is the kind of school that has almost 200 people show up in their pajamas to read holiday stories, sing carols, and enjoy being together over hot cocoa.

We had a GREAT time.

Team Taylor in our jammies :)

Our first visit with Santa of the season. I was so happy that the twins weren't afraid at all!

My loves enjoying holiday stories. Don't the boys look big??

Kirsten was THRILLED to have an opportunity to show off her new American Girl to her friends :)

We had so much fun! This year I enjoyed being "Mommy"... next year I might volunteer to read... but I loved just soaking up the night and snapping pictures of my little ones this time :)

I Think Santa Wants To Be a Pilot Too!

2010-12-13T18:44:00.007-05:00

Matt is the future pilot in this household. The playground at Albert Whitthead airport is "his" playground and he has my friend Terrie, the president of the airport's historic society, wrapped around his little finger. So you can only imagine the utter joy that this three year old would feel when he learned that Santa owns a helicopter and would be flying in to have lunch with him! (His brother and sister were also pretty psyched :) (The reindeer are already resting up for the big day so Santa's helicopter came in quite handy!)

We had such a nice time at our Santa lunch! Terrie did an amazing job organizing lots of crafts, a delicious lunch, and a visit from the big guy. We had a nice time visiting with friends too! (Even though I didn't get any pictures of that at all!)

Danny's cutting skills are really coming along! He took wreath making quite seriously.

It was hard to tear this girl away from the craft tables! She made EVERYTHING there was to make and enjoyed every minute of it :)

This picture makes me laugh so hard. Matt was so thrilled with this reindeer... he asked me to take his picture! And this is what I get!!

After lunch Terrie called all the kids outside the hanger and told them to watch sky.

It was so exciting when Santa landed!

Somehow we managed to be the VERY last people in the Santa line. I think the line went around us... That's okay though... we got some adorable pictures while waiting in line.

Daddy and Danny

While looking for a way to kill some time the twins decided to tackle Kirsten for "LOOOOVVVVE!"

Santa was great and really took time with each of the kids. Kirsten and the big guy:

Matt totally stumped Santa. When asked what he wanted for Christmas Matt answered "a pumpkin filled with candy canes". This has been his answer for a month. (The boy really loved Halloween!) Santa laughed and said he'd have to check the back stockrooms and have the elves special order it. Matt also mentioned he'd like some play dough. Santa brightened and said, "Oh great! Then you can make a pumpkin with the Play Dough." Matt gave Santa a bit of a dirty look and, in his most serious voice, corrected Santa, "I a good boy. The ELVES can make the pumpkin. Not me. The ELVES." We died laughing and Santa promised to do his best :)

Santa was a bit more prepared for Danny's scooter request!

As soon as the kids climbed off Santa's lap, Terrie grabbed them and brought them outside. You can only imagine the excitement of our future pilot when he was put in Santa's helicopter!!

I just love the holidays. This might be my favorite Christmas ever. The kids are at PERFECT Christmas ages! (Even though I still think they are all too big ;)

I'm Gonna Miss This... I'm Gonna Want This Back

2010-12-11T20:06:00.002-05:00

I KNOW I'm going to wish these days hadn't gone by so fast. (Yes, it's extremely cheesy to open a post with song lyrics but I don't care. It's in my head and it's true... so there.)

I was walking around Toys R Us with my mom tonight and I saw the most precious little dress. It was a sweet, knit dress with beautiful Christmas colors. It was a 3T. It was exactly what I would have thrown in my cart 5 years ago. I had to pick it up. I had to hold it... show it to my mom. "I miss these days SO much," I said wistfully. "So do I," she answered. "I would have bought that for Maureen." Maureen who is 31 years old.

It doesn't end. I know this... but this conversation made it so obvious. My longing for 5 years ago is just as strong (actually probably not as strong) as my mother's longing for 28 years ago. It doesn't end. This 'My baby started growing up and I don't like it one little bit' feeling. I know this... but I don't like knowing this.

I want to freeze them at each point in time. Today I was dying to buy a dress for my 3 year old little girl. Tonight I'd like to snuggle 6 month old twins while I watch tv. Sometimes I can't help but give in to the longing for days gone by. And they are still here!!! How crazy is that????

I've been filled with this 'I don't have babies anymore' nostalgia recently. We went to our school's "Snuggle Up and Read" on Thursday (more about that soon). Everyone wore pjs... it was fun and cute. I was totally caught up in a moment of "my babies are so big!!!". The twins sat with Kirsten in the front row for story time. They weren't afraid to sit on Santa's lap and they were singing Christmas carols. Then some woman touched Matt's pajamaed foot and said, "God, I miss those days. I loved the 'footie pj' days,". And I wanted to cry because someday I'm gonna be that lady... How unfair is that??? Someday I won't have anyone to put in footie pjs.

And so I want to reminisce, and sulk that 'then' is over and that 'now' will be over too soon, but mostly I want to soak up the elementary school days (which are quickly fading for the blond one) and the footie pj days that I will never get back... cuz I'm gonna miss this SO much.

(Super cheesy and super 'exactly what I feel right now' post.)

Fishy Face Family Photos

2010-11-28T18:51:00.008-05:00

I've said it before and I'll say it again, and again, and again (you get the idea) my friend Tiffany is the best photographer around. She is so talented and makes it so fun. If you haven't called her yet you need to call her right now!

So, we had a family shoot a few weeks ago and there are sooooo many good pictures. I'm going to just be a bit obnoxious and post a ton of them right now. It's very hard for me not to post my very, very, very favorites but I am saving those for our Christmas cards! So... here goes... (and remember these are the pictures that did NOT make the Christmas card cut! She's amazing!)
Our little family :)

THIS is what she had to work with!! And she found a way to make it a precious memory. (By the way this was NOT staged... this was uncooperative toddlers at their finest!)

My parents. I LOVE this picture. I think it's the best photo of them I've seen in years. I need to have this one framed!

Mimi and Danny. You know the saying "a picture is worth a thousand words" this is what they mean. This picture defines their relationship. I don't think I could do it justice with a thousand words... but this picture does.

This is the WHOLE Ward/Taylor/Kirby family. The whole gang. In one place. Smiling. In coordinating outfits. NICE.

My sister and her sweet family.

LOVE this picture. Again, there are no words for how much I LOVE this picture of my little sister and my Godson.

There are also no words for how much I love this crazy crew of blue eyed beauties.

Look at this little angel. Picture perfect. (He showed his true toddler-hood for most of the time Tiffany was working but she still captured him at his very best.) I could just eat him up. LOOK at those cheeks!

And this one might be my very favorite. Grandpa and his boys. I love the relationship that they have. My children are so lucky to be so loved by so many people. It's really special to see how these boys love their Grandpa though. I am so grateful to have this photo. This one will be in a frame forever.

Thank you Tiffany! They are beautiful and I just love them all!

Remember November

2010-11-28T18:04:00.003-05:00

...Note to self, this month was a good one.
There is so much in life to soak up and be grateful for.
Here are some random things I need to remember about November 2010.

-Brian and I both like our jobs. A lot. It makes life soooooo much easier. We have both finally hit a good place in our careers and are in positions that make us happy, where we are appreciated, and enjoy our days.

-Kirsten is SO happy at our new school. She has sweet friends and a wonderful teacher. She made the Honor Roll this month (and only got 1 B! She's got her eye on Principal's List next ;)

-Danny has become soooo loving and sweet this month. He is constantly looking at someone and (very sincerely) saying "Mommy (or Mimi, or Matt, or Sissy Love, or whoever is around) I lobe you." (the /b/ sound in love makes it all the sweeter). It's so precious and I don't ever want him to stop.

-Matt thinks it's hilarious to tell me that Riley (his little girlfriend at school) is "his girl" (instead of Mommy). This always makes me scream and protest which makes him howl with laughter. (It's only cute and funny because I know it's not true... I feel for his future wife... I am NOT going to like it when I'm not really "his girl"!)

-I am a genius. Or an idiot. One or the other. This month I figured out how to get the boys to sleep through the night in their own beds. THE WHOLE NIGHT. In THEIR OWN BEDS. Yes they are 3 years old and should have learned this a long, long, long time ago. I'm not going to remember that part though ;) I'm just going to remember the part where I threw a bunch of crap in a Rubbermaid bin and called it "Mommy's Treasure Box" and explained it was only for big boys who sleep in their own beds. This immediately solved the problem. Genius (or idiotic for not figuring it out 487 sleepless nights ago...). Now every morning the boys choose their "treasure" and squeal with delight over breakfast. And every night we sleep. All of us. In our own beds. Heaven.

-The boys have both started talking about God a lot. I LOVE what they are learning at school. It just melts my heart. "God made me Mommy. Yup. God make everybody. That what Ms. Katrina say." "Jesus is God's son and I you son!" They are also practicing for the school Christmas pageant a lot. They are very excited and use a lot of volume to convey their excitement ;)

-Kirsten started asking hard questions this month. Really hard questions. This is parenting on the front lines. I pray that I'm handling everything right. I want to be honest and protect her innocence at the same time. Big time stuff. What I just LOVE about it though, is that (at least right now) she wants to talk to ME about all of this. She comes to me with questions and for long, involved conversations. She thinks about what we've talked about and then hits me with more questions when I'm least expecting it. It's good. (It's scary as heck... but it's really good.)

-The boys' language has just exploded. They pretend and negotiate. They use new vocabulary all the time. ("That a pretty wreath Mommy. You like wreaths. 'Member when Daddy and us buyed you sunflowers? They on that wreath! And they not dead like yours!") On a long walk last week a lady said, "Oh! Your boys are so cute. Are they twins?" Danny looked up, pointed straight at her, and said "ABSOLUTELY." SO funny.

-I have the biggest nephews that anyone has ever had. I think it's my "thing". I'm the girl with gigantic (sweet, cuddly, rolly-polly) nephews. I love to stick my face in both of their little fat rolls. While all of my children's ribs stick out, all of my nephews have rolls of chub on their forearms and unbelievable cankles. It brings me so much joy.

There is so much more. SO MUCH. And that's good. It's just so good... and I'm so grateful for our little life and my little family. I want to remember this November always.

Forever.

2010-11-24T08:01:00.004-05:00

It became official four years ago... and I thank God it did every single day. I couldn't possibly love you more Kirsten Grace Taylor. You are my living, breathing blessing and my gift. Thank you for letting me love you.

You decided you wanted to celebrate Adoption Day with ice cream this year. I asked if you wanted to have a "date" with Daddy and I or if we should pick up the boys from school and bring them with us. Without hesitating you said, "Oh we should get the boys. I'm sure they are really happy and want to celebrate my adoption with me. They are part of our family too... so really it's their special day too!" I love you so much.

Matt

Danny

My sweet daughter

I love you Gracie Lou and I will forever and ever.

I Don't Have Babies Anymore...

2010-11-23T21:46:00.003-05:00

It absolutely breaks my heart to write/admit that. It can't be possible. My entire life I've adored babies. I've dreamed of having babies.

I loved every second of rocking, feeding, and bathing my babies (whether I knew it in the moment or not... I usually knew it... but even when I didn't realize I was cherishing it, my soul was soaking it in). Now, overnight, I don't have babies anymore.

Part of me feels robbed. I said it when they started to walk, I cried it on their second birthdays, I screamed it on their third birthdays... but deep down I knew my boys were still babies... until yesterday.

Yesterday, my tiny, 3 lb preemie weighed in at 30 lbs. He played t-ball, rode his tricycle, and "read" me a book. He told jokes, teased his sister, and convinced me his hair didn't need to be washed during his bath.

He turned into a little boy.

The reality brings tears to my eyes. I want to dig in my heels, scream that "IT'S NOT FAIR", and I'd be a liar if I said I didn't rock him to sleep in my arms tonight... like a baby... a 30 lb baby.

Except he's not.
He's a little boy.
It's official.
It's not fair.

I want that "on the record". I am not ready for this chapter of life. This chapter where I don't have babies... where I have 3 non-baby children. (We're not even going to think about how big the big one is right now or I'll be a quivering, shaking mess).

So, now that I've officially protested how heartbreaking it is (it is SO heartbreaking!!)...I can relish the little boyness... because it's SO little. That's the joy in the change from having a baby to a little boy. He is so little.

Part of me knows that I will never, ever have a little boy who is as little as the boy(s) I have tonight.

The beauty of each new stage is the new stage part. I really do mourn the passing of time. It's not fair. Really it's not (that's on the record right?). BUT with each new stage is newness... an innocence that will be fleeting. As much as I don't want to admit it, I know it's true.

So tonight I'm not going to cry that I don't have babies.
I'm going to drink up my little boys.
I'm going to love each new word, each new freckle.

I'm going to watch him sleep tonight... in his "big boy" firetruck bed... that he finally sleeps in all night because I bribe him with "Mommy's treasure box"...as he clutches a bottle full of water and a teddy bear, wearing "footy pajamas"...

I'm going to savor it because deep down I know the very reasons that define his NOT babyness right now will someday be precious memories of a very tiny, little, little (maybe even "baby") boy.

Super Lame

2010-11-15T21:22:00.004-05:00

I'm kind of dumb. Since people (2 or 3) people actually read this I always feel like what I post should be "read worthy"... but really this silly blog is just a lazy way for me to scrapbook. I've been hesitant to pick the blogging back up... because I didn't know how to break back in. Surely the first post after a 6 month (8 month? yearlong?) blog break should be extra read worthy... or maybe not.

Maybe I'll just embrase the lameness (see I'm making up words here!) of this post to break back in. Yup, that's what I'm going to do except I'm going to make it "SUPER lameness". So this is not read worthy at all. Random words first... random pictures second. So there. Pressure's off.

Here are some random, cute pictures. (SUPER cute.)

My loves. GOD, I love these people so much.

Danny and Matty. My boys.

If that doesn't make you smile nothing will!

Danny's smile... it could light up the world.

More soon. I hope... no promises... and if it is soon it may be equally lame. (Geez, who am I appologizing to? Future me? HEY! Future me, your life was really busy and happy at this point in time. Remember than and cut yourself a break!)

Who Needs Tonsils Anyway?

2010-08-10T21:14:00.007-04:00

Not the Taylor boys! At least that's what the ENT was able to convince me. He also said the boys would stop getting sick all the time, stop snoring, and start sleeping through the night if we took these pesky glands out... I'm hoping there is a money back guarantee on that one (because HOLY COW! it sure is expensive to take out glands ;)

I was really upset the night before the surgery. I was so worried... really worried... but thank God everything went great!

We had to be at the surgery center (which was very, very, very far away... long story) at 11:15. The boys got up early to a Jello buffet and we were off. We got checked in and all three of my boys had fun playing some video games.

It is such a terrible feeling when a doctor takes your child away from you. (Granted my boys went away with the doctors giggling and waving but it was hard for me!) Luckily the procedures weren't too long... about 30 minutes each. The boys both had their tonsils out, sinuses vacuumed and cultured, and had new ear tubes inserted. It wasn't long before we were able to meet them in recovery.

Sweet, sleepy Danny

My Matt

It didn't take them long to wake up... and the moment they did they were delighted that everyone wanted them to eat popsicles :)

They enjoyed a little tv, a few more popsicles, and laughed about the fact that their beds had wheels.

...Once Danny put the "throw up bin" (does that have a real name?) on his head we knew we were ready to head home :)

The boys were awake and happy on the ride home. We needed to fill their prescriptions so we decided to make a quick stop at Target. I was hesitant to take the boys in, but the nurses suggested we give the boys lots of slushies so we decided to try. We dropped of the Rx and then went to the little cafe to wait and have a drink. We were seated for about 30 seconds when Matt started asking for lunch. (That's my Matt :) We weren't sure what they'd be able to eat so I hesitantly got them bananas. The bananas lasted about a minute. In between bites Matt was demanding "REAL lunch... not banana lunch".

Once he realized he was hungry I think he started to panic. He started yelling to Danny "We need lunch!!". We headed over to the grocery section looking for something soft enough for them to eat. I was a little frazzled because Matt was VERY upset. We decided to try to give them a muffin. Between the two of them, they ate SIX before we left the store.

...Takes more then a couple of tonsillectomies to keep the Taylor twins down ;)

Spring Moments

2010-05-24T19:00:00.007-04:00

This spring has been SO busy... and it doesn't really feel like the "good" busy... it feels like the "I need life to slow down for one blessed minute so I can catch my breath" kind of busy. BUT... there have been moments. Perfect moments that have made me laugh out loud and smile until my cheeks hurt. Those of the moments I want to remember about Spring 2010.

The boys were precious during the "Spring Sing" at preschool. They couldn't have been cuter (or wigglier... hence the blurry picture ;)

See what I mean? Cuter then cute.

They also slept once this spring. (Just the once that I can remember...)

Danny and Kirsten posed for me during our Busch Gardens trip. We chose the hottest morning of the season to sweat our way through the park, the sky ride broke down while we were on in, and the train the twins couldn't wait to ride was broken... but they laughed and posed... worth remembering.

Sweet Baby Gus was born. My dear friend Charlotte welcomed her second son into the world and she lets me hold him, cuddle him, and breathe him in all the time. He is perfect.

Kirsten did a great job during her spring concert. She played the violin, sang with the glee club, and played the recorder (that was much more impressive during the concert then during the home practice sessions... we were shocked when we recognized the song! ;)

And... best of all... Baby Bailey was born!

The boys were sick when Bailey was born so we didn't get to meet him for over two weeks!!! We were all thrilled to finally get our hands on this precious little bundle of love! (For a stunning photo of my new nephew taken by an amazing photographer click here)

We love this little guy SO much!
... and I just love watching Jeff "the fun uncle" who once spent $45 on "the Ultimate Peanut Butter and Jelly Taste Test" while babysitting ... become a Dad. So sweet.

So... 11 more days of school... then SUMMER will begin. I can't wait!! ... but I'm glad I got to experience some great spring moments before it arrived.

Mother's Day 2010

2010-05-09T19:07:00.004-04:00

Perfect.
Perfect Day.
Perfect Family. (Well, not "pick their clothes up off the floor without being asked perfect" but "I love them so much I could explode perfect"... the "perfect" kind of perfect if you ask me ;)

I got to sleep in.
I got to open handmade gifts and cards along with store bought gifts and cards.
I got to soak up the people I love the most... and I got to thank God a hundred times for making me a mother.
Like I said, perfect.

We relaxed

We laughed

We cuddled

We enjoyed the sunshine

...And the water

I got to look at this sweet face all day

And I got to hear these little angels call me "Mommy".

Perfect.

2010-05-09T16:08:00.002-04:00

"My mom is a never ending song in my heart of comfort, happiness, and being. I may sometimes forget the words but I always remember the tune." Gracie Harmon

It surprises me how I am still able to love and appreciate my mother more as each day passes. My mother has always been my ultimate role model... the person I wanted to "BE" when I was a child. She was the center of my little universe. It still catches me off guard to realize that the utter devotion and adoration that I felt for her as a child was just a hint of what was to come.

It wasn't until I became a mother that I began to truly realize all she's done and all she is.

I hear her voice as I comfort my children.

I also hear her voice when I lecture my children ;)

I like that.

I like that I was right when I was 5. I wanted to be just like my mother... and I still do. She's the ultimate "mom role model". I love when I am able to see her in myself... it means I'm doing a good job.

Thank you for being you Mom. I love you so much! Happy Mother's Day!

Jelly Bean Fling

2010-04-04T21:49:00.005-04:00

We had a great time Saturday at the Junior League of St. Petersburg's annual Jellybean Fling! Playgrounds, egg hunts, Radio Disney, great food, fire trucks, great weather, gorgeous setting... what more could you possibly ask for? We even had well behaved children! (Unlike last year :)

Danny, in the midst of the 5 and under egg hunt. He went with the "open each egg and eat the candy within it immediately" strategy.

Brian and his little bunnies (some more preoccupied with candy then others...)

My stunning girl getting ready to hit the hunt!

Matt was thrilled to be in a "real" fire truck! He proudly told the firefighters that he has a firetruck bed!

One of the best parts of this event is visiting with friends! Here is a cute picture of Kirsten and "Baby Seth" (our next door neighbor)

This is my amazing friend Jenna, her mom, and her 18 month old quads... yes, you read that right she has four babies. Supermom.

My friend Nichole, the newlywed, was there with her sweet boys too... somehow I didn't get a picture... but we were so happy to see them!

An Egg-cellent Day

2010-04-02T19:52:00.003-04:00

Today was one of those great days. It shouldn't have been. We spent hours in the car. I got us very lost. Grocery Shopping, bathroom accidents, doctor appointments, dishes... but so great. The ages we spent in the car gave Kirsten and I time to really talk. We laughed, we told the boys jokes, and we enjoyed each other so much. I love days like today.

We decided to kick off our Easter celebrations by coloring eggs out on the deck tonight. It was so much fun. Kirsten just loves this kind of thing... and I think her brothers are going to be the same way! (Please ignore the missing pants on my boys... I try to enjoy these experiences and not worry about the mess... but I couldn't bear to ruin a pair of shorts... so I figured it was better for them to be 1/2 dressed then for me to impede on the fun.)

The boys caught on very quickly and loved every second of this. The took it very serious and did not want to stop!

Matt - so proud of himself (and his egg!)

Danny- "Whoo Hoo! I love eggs!"

My dad says the boys are like "mad scientists" around water because they love pouring, filling, and emptying... he should see them around eggs!!!!

K Love took a more relaxed, detail-oriented approach. Once the boys (COVERED in food coloring) were put in the tub, Kirsten got out a paintbrush and really got to work :)

The finished product!

A Clean Conscience and A Pure Heart

2010-04-01T09:08:00.002-04:00

... I think that's the recipe for this kind of rest. LOVE it.

(Actually I love it anytime a member of Team Taylor closes their eyes... not much sleeping goes on around here... it's worthy of photo evidence.)

No, that's certainly not a bottle you see in this 2 year old's carseat. He is much too old for that... It must be some kind of optical illusion ;)

Irish For Much More Then Just A Day...

2010-04-01T08:48:00.002-04:00

Well, St. Patrick's Day came and went without a post here... but that certainly doesn't mean Team Taylor didn't enjoy our visit from the leprechauns!

As usual those little green guys were full of tricks. They left each of the little ones a green pail filled with gold coins of candy, Lucky Charms, and some other green treats. (I was quite upset when I realized that there were alcoholic beverages on the green beads that I let Kirsten WEAR TO SCHOOL. Those leprechauns have to shop a little more carefully next year!)

They also turned our toilet water green, which filled our tiny house with squeals of joy before dawn. Kirsten found Apple Jacks and green milk in her lunchbox as well. It's amazing how much excitement and fun these little traditions bring... I always forget just how much fun these moments are until we are in the midst of them.

I thought Kirsten looked so cute leaving for school!

Danny's shirt says says it all. If these little freckle faced, blue eyed, red heads aren't little leprechauns I would be shocked. They are always full of excitment and mischief. Love my crazy guys.

Matt ran around all day squealing "I saw one!!" and pointing at the floor. Then he would shrug and say, "You miss it. They veeeeeeerrrrrry tiny." I remember Kirsten doing this the year she was 3 so clearly. I just can't believe how quickly time is passing!

This is a typical photo shoot these days... no one looking at the camera and little ones climbing on furniture and laughing. I wouldn't trade it for the world.

It's Fun to Be One!

2010-03-30T20:45:00.003-04:00

And it was SO fun to celebrate Luke's first birthday with him last weekend! We love that "little" guy so much! ...and he sure can celebrate in style! His party was at a beautiful park with great food, a huge crowd, a clown, face painting, balloon animals... that baby knows how to party!

Here was our best attempt at a family shot for the day. I like it. It's crazy and far from perfect but happy and fun. Like us.

My beautiful sister and her beautiful boy

Tulip (the face painting clown) was quite talented! Kirsten was thrilled with her transformation into a butterfly.

Matt was very excited to be turned into Superman (and Danny was not letting that clown anywhere near him! ... and we always think of him as the "daring one"!)

I love this picture and how Matt is right up front with the big kids... in total awe...

Danny kept a close eye on that crazy clown from Mimi's lap

This awesome gator, balloon, flower hat lasted about 6 minutes

SO sweet. So, so sweet.

These boys know how to get around a cake!

...So does this one! It didn't take Luke long to figure out how awesome this birthday cake situation was :)

Love you Luke! Don't grow up too fast!

What Beauty Is

2010-03-30T20:41:00.000-04:00

Innocence.

Sweetness.

Curiosity.

Endless Energy.

My girl.

Lord & Taylor (and Other Random Adorableness)

2010-03-30T18:55:00.003-04:00

We're still busy... I'm still not blogging much... and my kids are still the sweetest, cutest, most precious living things ever. (No, I'm not prone to exaggeration at all, why do you ask?)

Moments I don't want to forget:
- The boys have recently learned their last name. They walk around saying things like, "I am Danny TAY-LLL-or. You is Mommy TAY-LLL-or?" I could just eat it up. I need to get it on video. They refer to everyone using their full names very often. "I say come here Matt TAY-LLL-or! I want to play with you!"

- Brian asked Danny who was in our family last week. He answered, "Danny Taylor, Matt Taylor, Daddy Taylor, Mommy Taylor, Sissy-Love Taylor... Yup... EVERYBODY!"

- We took the excitement about learning our last name as an opportunity to teach the boys their middle names too.

(Kirsten's middle name is Grace. This is the name that we chose for her so we tend to emphasize it a bit. Somehow when she was small we got into a habit of calling everyone Grace i.e. "Daddy Grace". It made her laugh and it was cute. It makes us laugh when the boys refer to themselves as "Danny Grace" and "Matthew Grace" but we figured this might be the time to teach them their names.)
It didn't really take. But it is CUTE. Matt still insists that he is "Matthew Grace" and "no Dean!" and Danny loves the idea of his middle name. However, instead of saying "Ward" he says "Lord". Now, Mr. Articulation believes this is his name. He corrects us every time we say Ward and it is so funny. Again, I need it on video... but I don't want to forget it. Too cute.

-Last week-ish Matt jumped into my lap. Danny reprimanded him yelling, "My mommy is delicate!" to which Matt answered (with a twinkle in his eye) "My mommy bouncy!!!!"

I've been teaching the twins that girls are "delicate". I got this idea from my friend Tiffany. I think it is SO smart. I want them to "get" that boys and girls are different. Daddy loves it when they tackle him. Mommy doesn't. I get that they are "all boy" and are going to play rough sometimes... so I want them to understand that you don't play rough with girls (unless Sissy Love is asking for it and tells them to come get her ;) ...then it's fair game).

Matt randomly looks at me, full of sweetness, and tells me "Mama you delicate. You a girl. Girls delicate. Not boys. Boys strong. Girls delicate. Like Mimi, Grandma, Debbie, Sissy-Love. Yup. Girls delicate Mommy". (Possibly ever so slightly sexist but I think this may be the beginning of raising gentlemen... at least I hope so!)

-The boys are TWO. Precious, adorable, hilarious, and cuter-then-cute... but still two, if you know what I mean ;) We've been talking a lot about saying "yes" to people. (As in, when Grandpa says stop touching the blinds we'd like you to say "Yes, Grandpa"... not "I playing with them. I playing with these Grandpa. I no want to stop." or "Yes, Ms. Debbie" and not, "I still playing. I not going to clean up right now. No thank you Debbie. I no clean up.")

Danny asked Matt for a toy earlier today and Matt said "No, not right now..." (which is his standard answer to everything). Danny gasped, in a very over exaggerated fashion, then yelled "You say yes to me! That our rule! Our home rule is you say yes to me!"

- And Kirsten just promised that she will always love me "with all the love in the world" even when she is a teenager. I need to get her to put that in writing ;)

The Good Stuff

2010-03-07T21:18:00.002-05:00

Life is busy... blogging isn't high on the priority list... I know, I know, you've heard it all before... Catholic guilt? (I loved keeping up with this blog last year. It was a great outlet and a great way to record my memories. These days it's just not happening... I digress...) So here is a list of the things I never, ever want to forget that are happening in our lives right now (aka the good stuff) Here we go... in the simplest format possible :)

Matt: You are so loving. The genuineness (is that a word?) of your emotions is so touching to me. I just want to squeeze you up all the time. For example: When I tell you I love you (or even if I don't ...) you turn to me with the most loving look on your face and say, "I love you the more." Somehow, our answers of "I love you more" and "I love you the most" got mixed up in your precious little head and so you proclaim this to me every day (God help the person who corrects you, I refuse to be responsible for my actions if that situation arises :) Nothing could be cuter right? WRONG. When I answer "Oh no, I love YOU the more" you reply "Well, I love you the more too!". There are just no words to describe what it does to my heart.

This morning while I was getting ready for church, you walked into my room and said, "Mommy you look boot-i-ful!". I laughed thanked you, and walked into the bathroom to ask your dad if he'd put you up to this. You stood there listening as he denied it and threw your arms around my legs saying, "Mommy you am boot-i-ful!" I never, ever want to forget it :)

Danny: Everyone might call you "baby Brian" but you've got some of my genes... (the ones that love speech and language development specifically!). Overnight you began overemphasizing your /s/ sounds. Adorable for a 2 year old... but it gets better. You have become Matt's self appointed Speech Therapist. When I ask you if you liked reading a book you answer, "yeSSSS. I like the SSSSSSnowman. You like he SSSSSnowman Matt?" Matt answers, "I yike da no-man" and you reply "SSSSSSSSSnowman. You like he SSSSSSSSSSnowman Matt? It a SSSSSSSSnowman."

Kirsten: HONOR ROLL. That sums it up... what else is there to say? Like I told you when you brought home your awesome report card, "It's easy to do well when it's easy to do well... but it is hard and awesome to do well when it's hard to do well. I couldn't be any prouder of you. Truly. If you'd come home with an acceptance letter to Harvard or a Nobel Peace Prize I wouldn't have been prouder. I've missed you sweet girl, I am so glad you're back.

There is more... so much more. It's coming soon... in a simple, stress free format :) I just needed to proclaim how blessed I am right now, whether that qualifies as a boring post or not :)

Lukie Love

2010-03-01T20:57:00.003-05:00

This weekend we celebrated Luke's baptism.

The church service was lovely and the party was so much fun. It was a wonderful celebration!

Maureen, Ryan, and my Godson, Luke Patrick (I LOVE that baby!)

My other loves... how cute do they look in their coordinated spring outfits? (LOVE the socks... they make me happy :)

Me with my arms full of Lukie Love!

I love this picture of us. It makes me happy. He is so cuddly and squishy! (...and he's such a chubby little guy that he makes me look skinny ;)

My guys... hoarding goody bags. They were hiding candy under their legs, in their pockets... these guys love a good party :)

My sweet Luke, I pray that God will bless every breath you take. I love you always!

She's Sugar And Spice, Everything Nice

2010-02-26T21:31:00.004-05:00

...(sometimes ;) ... but always Daddy's Little Girl.

Here are a few pictures of Kirsten and Brian (along with her friend Kalee and Dad Dean) getting ready to go to the Girl Scout Father Daughter Dance. So sweet.

The girls... dressed up for their dates. I guess polka dots and white shrugs are in style :)

The girls and their handsome dates :)

And the "true to life" behind the scenes (or unedited) photo.

Love that Brian is bouncing our little monkey Matt through his formal pictures. So cute. Not quite as cute when the boys pitched a fit in the front yard that they didn't get to go with "Daddy and Sissy Love". Those boys hate to miss a good time ;)

Tea For Two

2010-02-23T21:23:00.004-05:00

As a new member of The Junior League of St. Petersburg, I was very involved in planning the fundraisers for our new member project. Our key fundraiser was an Alice in Wonderland themed tea party. It was a great event. We enjoyed everything from the ballet performance to the candy bar and I even won one of the raffles! (A beautiful necklace, bracelet, and gift certificate to Carabba's! SCORE!) We raised over $4,000 for PARC's Discovery Learning Center and I got to spend a Sunday with my daughter and my mom, what could be better?

I Worry...

2010-02-23T20:54:00.003-05:00

...These guys don't.

I LOVE these laid back guys :) Brian and Matt chillin' at the ophthalmologist's office... dilated eyes are just a new reason to look cool.

(No more retina checks needed for our little preemies :) and no glasses needed! (yet) .)

It Might Be Easier To Tell Them Apart From Now On...

2010-02-21T21:52:00.006-05:00

Since the twins were infants, people have been asking us how we tell them apart. Brian's standing joke is "They're Taylor boys... they'll have scars soon. That's how we'll tell them apart". ...Not so funny today.

On a very sad side note, Brian was in Illinois for his grandfather's funeral this weekend. His passing was not unexpected, but it was still very sad. I felt terrible not being there but it was just impossible. I didn't feel like I could make the trip with, or leave the children behind right now. So, Brian was returning from a very long, and what had to be difficult, weekend trip.

I was putting some things into the van and talking to my mom on the phone. Danny came barreling toward me (we always joke about how he runs head first... again, less funny right now). He tripped and took a header. He hit the van door hard. I knew he was hurt right away, dropped the phone, and picked him up. Then I saw the blood. I was yelling, "Oh my God! Oh my God!" My mom heard this and (she and my dad say) started yelling "Oh my God!" (My dad asked what was wrong and my tearful mom said she had no idea but that's what I was yelling... You may need to really know us to see this play out, but it was ridiculous and very sweet... the way we operate.)

I grabbed Danny and ran upstairs for ice and something to put pressure on his wound. My parents both arrived in less than 2 minutes. (LOVE living so close to my parents, LOVE how I didn't need o ask them to come, LOVE them in general.) My dad and I knew right away he needed stitches (since we were pretty much looking at his skull... Seriously, there was white. Sorry to gross you out, but it's true). So we got him into a car seat and my mom got into the front of my van to drive us to the ER (while I applied pressure to his little FACE). In a moment's time it had been decided that my dad would take Brian's van, pack up Matt, pick up Kirsten from church (CCD), and pick up Brian at the airport. I love my parents. What would I do without them??

Mom, Danny, and I headed to All Children's ER. It was as positive experience as it could have possibly been. We were in the waiting room less then 10 minutes. Danny played a video game (yes, a video game for a 2 year old... He thought it was awesome). We were triaged and in a room right away. A happy, private little ER room. We had excellent nurses (who Danny immediately wrapped around his little finger) and a great doctor.

The wound was cleaned, Child Life experts visited with toys, and a nice, numb Danny played and played.

(I have very adorable videos of Danny singing Nursery Rhymes in our room... We had to really work to keep him somewhat calm once he was numb! ...I'll try to add them to this post eventually but that never seems to work for me...)

He was SO brave. He really didn't cry much at all until being stitched up. It took 4 of us to hold him down. Man, that little guy is strong! At one point I asked him if it hurt or if he was scared. After that he kept crying and yelling "I scared!" It was heartbreaking. But, I desperately tried to help hold him down. I did not want him to be sedated after the trauma of holding him down! (He and Matt both had a hard time coming out of the sedation after their surgeries. not medically, that went fine, but I thought it was hard on them.)

Four stitches and a band aid later, it may become easier to tell the boys apart. We are going to do everything we can to minimize the scarring, time will tell... The power of a cool band aid is amazing (and the ice cream Mimi bought didn't hurt the healing process either!)

My sweet, brave boy, I love you... and I wish I didn't somehow let you get hurt every time Daddy leaves town!

(On another side note... look at me doing the "sad" part! No passing out, no throwing up... I don't know about you, but I'm pretty impressed with myself ;)

Shine On

2010-02-20T17:49:00.006-05:00

2010 was to be the year of no resolutions. I've never actually been able to keep a resolution and I read about an idea I liked much more instead. One Word. At the beginning of January some of my favorite bloggers (like this one and this one) were writing about an idea that's been gaining a lot of popularity. You are supposed to chose one word to define the upcoming year for yourself. Something to focus on, help you to make your life more purposeful, something easy to bring to your mind in a moment of chaos. I just loved this idea. I spent weeks trying to decide on my word. I read about lots of other people's choices for inspiration. I wanted to make sure that my word was going to help me make decisions, make me a better mom and a better person, keep me calm and centered. (That's a lot to demand of one word!)

After much thought and deliberation I decided on the word shine. It was perfect. If I was going to shine I would be the best version of myself. What could be better than letting the best part of me shine through in every situation? I was very excited. 2010... my year to shine.

...Then it started. Let's just say, thus far, 2010 and I aren't getting along so well. There has been a lot of stress and anxiety. I've been worried about one of my children and unsure what to do about it. January was the kind of month where it seemed that every single decision I made was the wrong one... and the stakes are too high for mistakes (or, at least, that's how it seems).

So, in my state of utter panic, I have felt less than shiny. I've been distracted and impatient. I haven't been present or sleeping. It hasn't been pretty. (It's a shame that for once I did not resolve to lose weight. I may have actually kept that resolution this year... the "anxiety diet" is proving very effective.) Through all this I did keep going back to my one word. However, instead of inspiring me it was mocking me.

When I chose this word I was inspired by scripture "Let your works so shine before men, that they may see your good works..." (Matthew 5:16) and famous leaders "When you let your own light shine, you unconsciously give others permission to do the same..." (Nelson Mandela). Truly inspiring. Let me tell you, I have not let others see my good works, or inspired anyone to do anything.

Then last week, things suddenly became clear to me. Fearing something I have no control over is never going to solve a problem. BUT facing fears, head on, and dealing with whatever situation God puts in front of me might be exactly what my child needs me to do.

Kirsten cries her eyes out during movies (all movies. We've had to leave the theatre more times then I can count). I always tell her "there has to be a sad part to make the happy part happier". Last week I reminded myself of these wise words. How liberating. I can't tell you how freeing it was to stop trying to find a bright side... stop trying to fix everything. I accepted that what we were going through was one of the "sad parts". I have complete faith that the happy part is coming. I really do... so what is there to worry about? As soon as I came to terms with this I found myself more present and focused on being the mother my child needs me to be right now... shiny or not.

Ironically I also heard the song "Shine On" by Eric Bibb last week. It's amazing what we hear when we are listening sometimes isn't it? This is my new favorite song. I love the lyrics. LOVE THEM. The idea behind the song is that when you think the task in front of you is insurmountable that is exactly when you need to "shine on".

"Keep your eyes on the mountaintop. One step at a time don't ever, ever stop"

The lyric "You're a diamond to me" actually brings tears to my eyes. Who else do want to shine for? My children (and family in general) are my world. Aren't they the one's I want to shine for? Isn't that the kind of mother I want to be? The kind I am (if I admit it to myself)? I will never quit trying to help my children. I will never, ever give up. I will never, ever stop. So maybe that's how I shine. Maybe doing the hard stuff is shining on... maybe this is the ultimate gift, that I get to be this person (this "diamond") for my child...

2010 is looking better already.

(On a technical note, I have spent almost 2 hours trying to load the song "Shine On" to this site... I am a little frustrated at the moment but I'm going to let it go :) I highly suggest you google "Shine On" by Eric Bibb... or comment if you have tips on how to add it to my playlist ** I've already bought it through Amazon and Itunes... UGH!)

Fishy Face Photos!!

2010-02-13T23:00:00.008-05:00

My friend Tiffany is an amazing photographer. She took beautiful photos of my boys while they were still in the Special Care Unit a few days after they were born. Then she took more beautiful pictures when we brought our babies home. After years of taking beautiful photos for friends and family she is finally launching her business! Fishy Face Photography is going to be wildly successful. Book her while you can! Seriously. Her rates are ridiculous right now, so take advantage of my wonderful friend and get some stunning pictures of your family!

Here are a few of my favorites from our January photo shoot (yes, I'm still very behind with the blog!)

(Disclaimer: There are a lot of pictures below. I planned on posting 2 or 3 to highlight Fishy Face but my kids are too cute and Tiffany's photography is too good! It just wasn't possible... and I did restrain myself there are lots more beautiful photos on my cd!!)

Danny W. (Baby Blue Eyes)

Matty D. (My Other Baby Bue Eyes)

Matthew's sweet baby face (Yes. He is still a baby. Don't argue with me... I'll win. He'll still be my baby when he gradutes college!)

Love Matt's dimples :)

Love Matt's wonder and curiosity!

Love Matt's adorable serious face... and his precious brother

...YOU try keeping up with these guys! It's not easy :)

Happy Danny

I love, love, love this one. I love Matt's real laugh. I love remembering how Danny was giggling. I love that the photo is focused on one of the boys but it's still very clear that his best buddy is never far away. LOVE IT.

"Choo! Choo!"

Peek-a-boo!

"I love you, man!"

Best Buddies forever

Thanks Tiffany! I will treasure these for years!!!

Random Thoughts...

2010-01-26T21:49:00.003-05:00

Things haven't been easy recently.

I've been worried.

That's what mom's do, right???

I'm working on "giving it to God"... (it's a lot easier said then done huh?). I find it terrifying and amazingly beautiful that my children elicit such powerful emotions and actions within me without consciously doing a single thing. I love being a mother. I love it more then I'll ever be able to express... and it scares the heck out of me!

...So blogging has been low on my "To Do List". (We're all going to be fine... but if you want to say a little prayer for my loves I'll say thank you :)

I also had the worst stomach flu I've ever had and was the sickest I've been in my adult life last week... in case the 'worried mom' bit doesn't justify my lack of devotion to this blog!

I also have a very strange sense of obligation to this little blog. I've been so inspired by so many of my friends who blog and document their lives and memories. My plan is to (someday) have this blog published into annual blog books to serve as my scrapbooks. This gives me a very strange sense of obligation that I shouldn't "skip" ahead or leave out events that I would want highlighted in the "big picture" book. So, if I don't get to edit a set of photos (because I'm worried...or throwing up ;) I tend to not let myself "move on". I'm only writing this because I want to give myself permission to skip stuff. I've decided to just go back and add the few events that I skip (when I feel lazy) whenever I feel like it... but I'm moving on! (So eventually I'll add Christmas pictures... but it may not be until July :)

...There is something else too. It's weird.

I have friends that have great blogs and hundreds of readers.
This is not one of those blogs (duh... there are probably only 3 of you reading this.)
That's why I never thought I needed to protect my images or my children.
Apparently I do.

Someone has stolen pictures of one of my children (from this blog) and other children and has created a fake blog about her "family".
It is creepy.
Really, really creepy.

I'm not sure what this means for us yet. At the very least it means I'm adding software to make copying my images very, very difficult. I don't know if watermarks and "right click disables" are enough yet. I guess we'll see...

I don't really want to make this blog private (but I might).
I love reading blogs of other mothers that I have "found" online.
I love learning from other moms and sharing the story of my family.
I love that I have several hits each day from people who google My Best Friend Has Cancer. (Mine does and she's awesome... update soon).
I love that I've had several people go through quite a bit of effort to "find" me and make me aware of the creepy situation, offer advice, and instructions on how to deal with this all.
People I've never met.
People who are moms... and know this isn't right.
Thank you.
I really love all the good things about blogs.

...And I really don't love the creepy stuff.
So, if this blog suddenly goes private and you still want to read it PLEASE email me!! If I take that route it is only to block creepy people who are trying to pretend my children are theirs... not regular people who just want to read about my precious, adorable little loves.

Christmas Eve - The After Party

2010-01-01T20:35:00.006-05:00

On Chirstmas Eve we packed up the kids, my nephew, my sister, and parents and went out to a late lunch (at a restarant... aren't we brave!) before mass. After mass everyone came back to our house for the Ward/Taylor/Kirby Christmas party. We had lots of fun with our very over-stimulated little ones.

We started the night singing 'Happy Birthday' to Baby Jesus and enjoying the cupcakes that Kirsten made.

Then the children thoughly enjoyed opening all the gifts!

There was lots of robot making...

... and paper tearing (Luke got the hang of this very quickly :)

Silly Mimi was worried that the boys would not be excited about all the outfits and pj's she bought them. She was wrong.

Wardrobe change #1

Somehow I didn't get a picture of wardrobe change #2 (when Danny immediately stripped off his clothes to sport his new Batman pjs) or of wardrobe change #4 (into new Elmo pjs for the night). BUT wardrobe change #3 was really the highlight!

Both Matt and Danny were very excited about the new undies they received. So excited, that they each immediately put them on. All of them. (They each got a 4-pack.) ...And there was no reason to waste any time undressing...

Kirsten was simply thrilled with her new Hannah Montana bike!

The night ended with setting out a snack for the "Big Guy" and somehow, the kiddos eventually fell asleep (wish I could say the same for the parents!)

Christmas Eve Vigil

2009-12-30T22:28:00.004-05:00

Christmas Eve is always the highlight of the Christmas season for me. It's the part I look forward to and remember the most. I love sitting with my family in the vigil mass, surrounded by beautiful decorations, listening to beautiful music, and remembering what it is all about. It has become more special to me each year that I've had my children.

The first year that Kirsten came into our lives, we had to jump through a lot of hoops to have a legal right to "unsupervised visits" (which was really stupid since I was her teacher and was the one supervising her all day long... but that's another post). We were allowed to take her to our home for the first time on 12/23/04. From that day forward we began picking her up before 8 am each day and keeping her until 8 pm when she had to go to bed. (We were not allowed to keep her overnight at that time.) I will never forget taking her for a "church dress" that first Christmas Eve, holding her during the mass, and watching her wide eyes glow in wonder. Something happened to me during that mass. It was a moment that was bigger than me and one I can't really put into words.

It seems that our blessings multiply each year, and this mass is a time I always reflect and give thanks. This year was no different. I thought I might burst with pride (No, not when Matthew threw himself down in the center aisle of the chruch... not when I, literally, put my hand over Danny's mouth to hush him during the homily) when my little girl played the role of Mary during the gospel's reading.

When I was in second grade, my teacher announced that someone from our class would be crowning Mary during a May service. She explained that she would draw a name from a hat that evening. I'm pretty sure I'm the only child who couldn't sleep that night. The anticipation I had over the announcement is indescribable. I raced to class the next morning and immediately asked Mrs. Volker who she had chosen. I remember her hesitating and answering that she drew Andrea L's name. I also remember my eyes burning with hot tears. It was one of those moments of true, childhood raw emotion. I was heartbroken. Within seconds Mrs. Volker suggested that I could help Andrea... there was no reason that two of us couldn't walk down the aisle. (She was a good woman :) Then, I somehow convinced Andrea to carry the roses but to let me place the crown of flowers on the statue's head. (I don't think she really cared... but I sure did!) It was a moment that I'll never forget.

That's how I felt at the vigil mass. I doubt it was as important to Kirsten as it was to me, but I am grateful for the beauty of the moment.

Kirsten was reverent, graceful, and beautiful. I was grateful to be so blessed.

Winter Wonderland

2009-12-30T22:07:00.004-05:00

...doesn't that sound like a perfectly magical name for a Christmas post? Ha.

When I read it I "wonder" why in the world we kept the kids up past their bedtimes on purpose. I "wonder" what overcame my sweet, little Matthew (formerly known as 'Angel Baby') when he threw the fit of all fits on the way home that night. I "wonder" why my boys tried to burst through the Santa line (for almost 45 minutes straight!) and then refused to go anywhere near him when it was there turn!

And I wonder why I'm sitting here with a huge grin, remembering that ridiculous night so fondly.

The night started off with a lot of potential. Isn't Danny adorable? Don't you love the Christmas sweater and shorts?

This was definately a Florida-style winter wonderland! The shorts were proudly worn while "glice skating". You northerers can keep your cold we don't need it!

The boys were totally entranced with Santa's reindeer.

K Love and the big guy

Me... trying to make a "moment". The boys were not going to have it. Oh well, it still makes me smile :)

Kirsten's Koncert (forgive me... I love alliteration a little too much)

2009-12-29T22:40:00.003-05:00

Kirsten has continued taking violin lessons at school this year and she joined the Glee Club! (I will update this post at some unknown later date. The camera I was using had a broken zoom lens. -I got a new camera for Christmas!! Thanks Mom and Dad!- luckily Don took pictures using his zoom... unfortunately I can't find five minutes to download the pictures he took... but I will... at some unknown date/time :)

Here are the highlights (minus zooming).

Kirsten with her silly, fake, pink rose (it played music... she's easy to please).

Kirsten's glee club performance. (Pretend this is the zoomed version... at least try to pretend!) Do you see her in the front? Right in the center? Holding the microphone? Yup... that's her. How she managed to get the mic I don't know... but it's a typical Kirsten move. She is not afraid of the spotlight!

My girl :) (Violinists are supposed to wear black and white. They don't make many children's clothes in black... we tried!)

An Oreo celebration!! ...can't you just feel the sugar high?

It was a great night. I love watching Kirsten perform... she's really in her element when she is center stage.

Will You Do Me A Favor?

2009-12-29T22:33:00.003-05:00

Will you (please!) stop what you are doing right now and say a prayer for Matt and Danny's BFF? I feel ridiculous posting this. The six people reading this are probably already praying but it just doesn't feel right doing anything "normal" right now. I have complete faith that he will be okay. I really do... but my heart is breaking for his mother, my very dear friend, one of my very favorite people. I don't know what she is going through... but I can imagine and it makes me cry.

I know he will be okay... but I'll feel better knowing everyone in my life is praying for him... and when he is okay (and when his awesome mom gives me the "go ahead" to make their lives public) I will update with the happy ending of this story.

Thank you.

Preschool Christmas Program

2009-12-28T19:39:00.005-05:00

Since the boys were born (or more accurately since they were just a wish and a prayer) I've dreamed of their preschool Christmas program. When Kirsten moved in with us she began going to the most wonderful little church preschool imaginable. Really. I love it so much. She began attending the school in November and in early December took part in their Christmas program. It was the sweetest thing I'd ever seen. Tiny, little children singing songs about God, quoting scriptures, and surrounded in love.

When I filled out the boys' registration forms (a year early!) visions of them dressed in their holiday best filled my head. While I cried in my van after dropping them off on their first day I imagined how happy we would be at their Christmas celebration. I know it sounds like I'm being sappy and exaggerating but I'm not... I've looked forward to this that much!

...So you can imagine my disappointment when Danny came down with a stomach flu four days before the program. Of course, I was much more concerned with his health than the show! (He was REALLY sick... there was some question about if he would need to be hospitalized.) The day before the program we had the okay from the doctor for him to attend... I kept studying Matt... would he ward off the germs? The answer was no. BUT he would not succumb to uncontrollable vomiting until the day AFTER the program. Thatta boy! :)

I love this picture of my little loves heading out to the church.

The boys sang "Mary Had a Baby Boy", "Christmas Bells Are Ringing", and "Jesus Loves Me". It was absolutely precious. They were on opposite sides of the stage which made photos tricky (I'm sure there was a reason for this though... they were both nervous going into the church and tend to work each other up...)

This is what Matt did for most of the program. Sit on the stage, make silly faces at Ms. Michelle, and play with his tie.

Danny sang every word and did every motion!

My sweet baby blue eyes (Danny)

After the show everyone crammed into the lunchroom to celebrate with cookies and punch.

Daddy's boys

I love this picture. This is Northeast Park Preschool's past (Kirsten), future (Isaac and Noah) and present (Matt, Danny, Malia, and Dylan). I can't believe all these kids are ours!

It was all I'd hoped for and more... such a celebration of beautiful children, a loving church and school, and all our blessings.

Breakfast With the Big Guy

2009-12-28T16:59:00.003-05:00

We look forward to our annual Breakfast with Santa at church each year. We enjoyed a pancake breakfast, fun holiday crafts, and a visit with the man in red!

Danny chowing down on some good food!

The boys were thrilled to see Santa. They couldn't wait for their turn (trying over and over to cut ahead of the line!). However, when their turn came Matt clung to me and Danny cried. Typical. They were so excited and curious though... this was the best photo we could get.

Our family shot for the day

Our pretty little one enjoying some playground time after church :)

It Wouldn't Be "Turkey Bowl" If There Weren't Lingering Medical Bills

2009-12-28T15:35:00.004-05:00

The weekend before Thanksgiving Brian, his brothers, and friends played their annual Turkey Bowl.

The highlights:
- A play Brian designed won a Sports Illustrated Flag Football contest and we are getting a new 32" high definition tv

- The kids were adorable

- It was a great time to visit with everyone (we just never get to do that these days!)

Grandpa and his girls :)

Danny and Daddy

Daddy's biggest cheerleader

The lowlights:
- Matt was in a BAD mood. There was a lot of crying and I pulled something in my elbow (that is STILL not better!) lugging Mr. Cranky around all day.

- We forgot to bring the pies to the post- Turkey Bowl BBQ. We had an excellent explanation for this oversight... but I don't think we'll ever live it down.

- Brian went into renal failure and spent 7 hours in the emergency room.

...Overall what you'd expect from a Turkey Bowl.

Can't you just see the angry, little "where is our pie?!?" looks?

"Daddy are you sure you just need water? You don't look so good?"

...And Brian being carted off for an MRI on a stretcher. (He's looking relaxed because they gave him A LOT of morphine).

...Apparently it's REALLY important to not get dehydrated. Organs need water. A lot. If they don't get enough water they just stop working. Then you have entire body muscle cramps for hours, uncontrollable vomiting and diarrhea, intense pain, high medical bills, and renal failure. Not good.

National Adoption Day

2009-12-28T14:51:00.003-05:00

After our family celebration of "Forever Day", Kirsten and I had the opportunity to celebrate the big day with the Heart Gallery.

This year I joined the Junior League of St. Petersburg. One of the community events we sponsored was a celebration at Great Explorations for new adoptive families. I signed up as quickly as possible and asked if it would be appropriate for Kirsten to come with me. (I am always looking for good volunteer opportunities for her. I struggle between wanting to teach her empathy and gratefulness but not wanting to expose her to the "bad" things in the world yet...) I was thrilled when the event coordinator and the executive director of the Heart Gallery both strongly encouraged me to bring Kirsten and stressed how much they would like to meet her. SCORE.

Kirsten and I spent the morning decorating cookies with the children, talking with the families, and exploring the museum.

James Shields, the pitcher for the Rays, came to spend some time with the children. He spoke to the children about the gift of family and "dreaming big". When he asked the crowd what they dreamed of being in the future there were several kids that answered "an athlete", "an actor", and "a musician". Kirsten was the only one who answered "a meteorologist... that's a weather girl". (I must say that answer was a crowd favorite!)

Kirsten was able to score some great Rays souvenirs and to have them autographed!

My sweet girl and I

"I love you FOREVER. I like you for ALWAYS. As long as I'm living my baby you'll be." (Even when you're a grown-up meteorologist :)

Hello My Poor, Forgotton Blog

2009-12-28T14:24:00.002-05:00

What can I say? I've completley neglected you. I could make excuses... I've got good ones! They include a very stressful job, 2 ear infections, 2 sinus infections, 3 stomach flus, 9 visits to doctors, 1 trip to the hospital, about 37 sleepless nights, holidays, celebrations, school projects... you get the idea. Instead of making excuses I'm going to try to catch up. My goal is to catch up on 2009 before 2010 begins. ...We'll see how this goes :)

1 Samuel 1:27

2009-11-18T21:09:00.004-05:00

"For this child I prayed; and the LORD hath given me my petition that I asked of Him."

Today we celebrated our "Forever Day". Three years ago today we finalized the adoption of our beautiful daughter. For two long years we loved and prayed. I will never forget the way I felt the day of our adoption. I'm not sure how to describe it. It was a mixture of love, pride, and gratitude. It was amazing. We are blessed.

We usually ask Kirsten how she would like to spend our anniversary. In the past we've celebrated with family dinners, bowling, and doughnuts. Tonight we enjoyed a family picnic at our favorite playground. It was perfect.

Our beautiful daughter

Daddy's Pride...

...And Mommy's JOY

BLESSED

No one ever said it would be like this.

2009-11-18T00:00:00.006-05:00

Kirsten,
A little over five years ago you stepped off a school bus with a backpack that was as big as you were. I remember laughing out loud at how adorable you were. I have never doubted our decision to adopt. Not for one single moment. I knew from the moment I set eyes on you, sweet girl, that you were born to be my girl.

But there are moments that I am completley overwhelmed. You are not what anyone would describe as an "easy" child. Somehow I didn't know "what I was getting in to".

No one ever told me I would spend so many sleepless nights worrying about your future.

No one told me I would have to make decisions that I feel totally unprepared to make.

No one told me how intimidating it would be to be your advocate with doctors, teachers, attorneys, and specialists.

No one ever told me that a harsh word from an eight year old would be my life's first true heartbreak.

No one ever told me how hard it would be.

I wonder why it is that no one ever told me it would be possible to love another human being so deeply, so completley, so unconditionally.

No one ever told me that when mother's say they would kill or die for their child they really mean it.

No one ever told me that you were going to change me forever and that I would never, ever be able to imagine a breath without you again.

Sometimes it amazes me that no one ever told me it would be like this.

No one told me you would be my everything... but, deep down, I know why no one ever said it would be like this. It's because there are no words to really describe a mother's love.

You have changed me, your father, our parents, our friends, and the friends of our friends more than you'll ever know.

You are my happy ending.

My journey.

My blessing.

My love.

My joy.

My daughter.

I love you so much more than I could ever put in to words.

Happy "Forever" Day.

Fight For Preemies

2009-11-17T00:00:00.013-05:00

Today, November 17, the March of Dimes is encouraging bloggers to write about a preemie they love in support of the "Fight for Preemies". So here goes (times two). 543,000 babies are born too small and too soon each year. In 2007 two of those babies were mine.

When I was in college, I volunteered at Shands Hospital as a "cuddler". My job description was to spend time in the NICU and pediatrics wards spending time with the babies. I got to hug them, hold them, and talk to them. It was so peaceful. It made me very happy. It's pretty amazing to me that the lessons I learned then (Don't rub the babies, just lay your hand over them. Speak to them in a whisper. Don't overstimulate.) are lessons that I remembered during the first hours I spent with my own sons.

I've already blogged about the worst day of my life and the happiest of beginnings. I haven't blogged about the times I fall on my knees and thank God for my boys. I have been forever changed by words like "brain bleeding", "blindness", and "mental retardation". I will never take the health of my children for granted. I thank God for it every single day. It goes without saying that I am moved to tears when I think of "what could have been". However, today is the day to say it.

One of our doctors told us that 20 years ago babies under 3 lbs did not stand much of a chance. That means Danny would have been clinging to life and Matthew's chances would have been very, very slim. 20 years ago. I remember 20 years ago.

My babies were healthy from their first breaths. They defeated all the odds. They were considered miracles. BUT they were miracles that could not suck. Miracles that could not eat or maintain their body temperatures. Miracles with bradycardiac episodes. They were tiny, little miracles. 2 lbs 14 oz and 3 lbs 3 oz to be exact.

Beautiful, tiny miracles that I could not hold, or nurse, or take home with me. Miracles that spent their first weeks in this world in isolates with tubes up their noses and IVs in their arms, legs, feet, and tiny heads. Miracles that LIVED, largely because of the research and science that the March of Dimes made possible.

I thank God for my preemies everyday... and especially today. I encourage you to join the March of Dimes in the "Fight for Preemies". Every dollar helps. Every kind gesture and prayer makes a difference to a tiny life (or two).

Halloween 2009

2009-11-01T09:06:00.004-05:00

Here are a few cute Halloween moments... No interesting writing... my little loves do NOT do well with schedule changes or sugar, which made for a very, very, very long night. However, we had a great time trick-or-treating!

Team Taylor

Mimi, Grandpa, K-Love, Matt and Danny

The superheros and the Taylor Grandparents

Matty D ready to save the day!

Super Danny

It's a bird... it's a plane... it's Super Kirsten!

My superkids

Heros Among Us

2009-10-25T19:17:00.002-04:00

Here are some cute pictures of my superheros at the park!

Happy Danny

More Happy Danny (because, really, who can get enough?)

Half superhero... half wild, climbing monkey. (These guys have yet to meet a piece of playground equipment they can't conquer!)

...And a Halloween preview :) Here are my little heroes loving their Great Aunt Pat

I Wonder When It Was (Exactly) That I Lost My Mind...

2009-10-11T19:29:00.002-04:00

It must have been recently. I know I used to be a very reasonable person... but in the last 24 hours I have caught myself saying (maybe yelling...) the following things:

"We do NOT run around the house with the doorbell! Put that doorbell DOWN!"

"Bad wall! No hurting my Danny! Naughty, naughty wall!"

"I don't know if God sneezes. Probably not... Oh, okay, then He probably does. Honey I don't know... I told you I don't know... I don't think so... Why don't you go pray and ask Him!"

"STOP putting peanut butter and jelly on your feet!"

"You're a monkey? Oh good, because monkeys listen to their mommies... Yes, they do... yes, they do... YES, they do... I PROMISE. They DO..."

(Not the ramblings of a sane woman.)

Livin' the Good Life

2009-10-11T01:16:00.000-04:00

My happy Danny

Touch-A-Truck

2009-10-10T13:05:00.004-04:00

While Kirsten is off celebrating Aunt Maureen's birthday at Sea World, we brought the boys to the local firehouse for the annual Touch-A-Truck day.

Firetrucks and COOKIES? What could be better?!

I think the caption for this picture should be "Fake Fall". It LOOKS like October doesn't it? The leaves, the firetruck, the lighting... You wouldn't expect the "feels like" temperature to be 100 degrees. But it is! We were outside for 15 minutes and covered in sweat. It was pretty disgusting.

As soon as we were finished exploring the trucks Danny took off for the nearby playground. The boys seem so big these days... I treasure the moments when they look tiny exploring their huge world :)

The boys never pass up a playground opportunity, but it was too hot to really play. They tried but gave up very quickly.

Pumpkin Palooza

2009-10-04T14:53:00.006-04:00

Saturday we hit the annual Pumpkin Palooza. This is a favorite fall festival that we attend every year. I can't believe it's the third time I've brought the boys to this event! We had a great time, just like we always do. What a great way to kickoff my favorite month of the year!

The boys are so cute these days. They are very excited about scarecrows and talked about them a lot this week ...and Danny has become the biggest lollipop addict I've ever known. Lucky for him, the way he says, "Loll-a-bop" is the cutest thing I've ever heard... so I keep feeding them to him so he'll keep saying it :)

Here is Matt playing a little fishing game. Super-cute. One of the things I love about this festival is how many great, age appropriate activities they have for the little ones.

I think the caption for this photo should be "Monkey on the Bars".

I know I give a lot of attention to Matt's dimples, but I can't tell you enough how much I LOVE Danny's big, joyful grin.

The boys enjoyed some quality time in a bouncy house

Kirsten loves the bouncy houses but she really, really, really loves when there is an obstacle course in the bouncy house!

The end to an awesome day :)

Good for the Soul

2009-10-02T23:16:00.009-04:00

Great friends, great weather, and great fun outdoors... it does my soul good. We had a great play date with Charlotte and Santi this week (and we really needed it! Work has been rough, the weather has been ridiculously hot, and I've been sick forever). It was so much fun :)

Danny just loves hangin' out at the park

Matt (Mr. Easy Going) trying to figure out what to do next

This pictures makes me laugh out loud. Santi, who is five days older than the twins, has very advanced language skills... just like my boys have very advanced gross motor skills... that makes for a funny combination.
As Danny was climbing up the ladder to the top of this platform, Santi kept yelling warnings to him, "Danny! No Danny! This is dangerous. DANGER Danny!". It was hysterical. Danny looked at him like he was crazy and kept climbing. I love how this picture shows Danny thinking "See it was no sweat!" and Santi thinking, "HOW did he do that??"

Homecoming 2009

2009-10-02T23:16:00.006-04:00

Last night we packed up the mini-van and took the kids to the Homecoming game at Lakewood High (Brian's school). Homecoming has certainly taken on a different meaning then it had during the "glory days" at UF, but we had a great time.

"I love the coach!" (That is the caption I had in mind when I staged this photo... I thought it was pretty funny when I looked at it later and realized that all 3 kids were totally distraced. There was a lot to look at!)

The boys were very interested in everything. I thought they would love the band... after the opening song the boys both clapped and cheered loudly. Then Danny said, "Yea! No more loud!" ... maybe that wasn't their favorite part :)

Kirsten loved EVERYTHING about it. She was so excited to see the Homecoming court. We had lots of fun discussing all the beautiful gowns.

"I wish I was in high school!"

This was my view for most of the night :) I think Danny would have enjoyed sitting and watching the game, shaking his pompom, and cheering with the crowd IF Matt hadn't been so intent on exploring. Danny couldn't let him explore alone! So the boys and I did a lot of walking around and checking things out.

Who knew football could be so exhausting?! (This was taken in Brian's classroom at the end of the night as we changed the boys and got ready to head out.) We left during the second quarter. Those games don't start until 7:30!! We arrived nice and early to check things out so by 8:30 it was time to head out.

... And this photo is exactly why I am usually a bedtime tyrant (and why we don't make it to many games.) As I was editing photos at 10:00 this is what Matt was doing...

We might get 1 little one to adjust to a schedule change... if we're lucky 2 of our kiddos cooperate... I think I've yet to experience an easy bedtime for all 3 kids after a big night! Oh well, he's crazy today but it was totally worth it :)

Breakfast of Champions

2009-10-02T23:00:00.004-04:00

Grammy and Grandpa are out of town. I know I say all the time how lucky we are to have so much help with the kids but seriously... it needs repeating... we are SO LUCKY to have so much help! Not only does my dad watch the twins two full days each week, join me to help at all doctor appointments, and do more "spur of the moment" babysitting then a twelve year old girl... BUT he (and my mom!!) also take Kirsten to school each day. That means that they have grandchildren (1-3 depending on the day) being dropped off at their house at seven am FIVE DAYS A WEEK. Again, I'm SO LUCKY. I know this everyday but I especially appreciate it on days like today.

Since they are out of town it is truly "taking a village" to fill the gap. Brian is taking off work, his parents are helping with dropping off Kirsten, and the twins' teacher is even helping out in the mornings (by accepting children at her HOME so I can get to work on time). We are blessed.

SO... while I felt pretty awesome having three children dressed, washed, and loaded into the car at 6:32 am this morning, I did NOT feel awesome about feeding them Pop Tarts in the car. (My big eaters like a hot breakfast. They usually have waffles, sausages, and fruit each morning and then beg Grammy for more food.)

Ironically, this plan did not save me any time. While we got Kirsten dropped off on time, and arrived at the twins' school nice and early, the time it took me to wash their faces and hands (and even change Danny's shirt!)before walking them into their classroom more than made up for my timeliness. Oh well... lesson learned :)

Our Eagle Took Flight!

2009-09-26T21:16:00.003-04:00

The Eagle is the mascot of Kirsten's school... and they take their mascot very seriously. The children are constantly challenged to "soar". Well, our little eagle took that very literally today! Kirsten participated in the Young Eagles program at Albert Whitted Airport today.

My friend Terry is a pretty amazing person who runs the historical society, and pretty much everything else, at the airport organizes the event. It is an incredible opportunity for children, or future pilots, ages 8-18 to take a FREE flight in a small plane or helicopter along the coast of Tampa Bay. The children learn about the aircraft, receive their own flight log book, and some even get to take the controls during the flight! (Terry was SO nice to send Kirsten up in one of the first planes so she didn't have to wait in the 90+ degree heat for her turn. She was in the back of an airplane with another little girl, whose brother got the honors of sitting up front since he was the oldest. Which was perfect... we have to save SOME of the thrill for next time ;)

"Mommy did you know you can stand on the wing of the plane??"

...And this next one is the money shot (great photography Brian!)

Needless to say Kirsten was thrilled and it was an experience of a lifetime. I, however, was very disappointed that I missed the entire thing. I've been sick for well over a week, and was finally feeling better today. Unfortunately Matt and Danny picked up where I left off. It's great that the Eagles program was free since we were at the pediatrician's office blowing big bucks on MORE ear infections. 4 infected ears, 2 infected sinus passages, 2 infected throats, and a wheezing chest. POOR boys. (But how great did Brian do with the pictures? Thanks babe :)

My Best Friend

2009-09-18T21:47:00.003-04:00

As I've mentioned in a couple of other posts, our mornings are a little crazy... and by "a little" I mean A LOT... like more than you can imagine...

Our preschool drop-off is going a bit better. Ms. Dorothy figured out that Matt loves to play with trucks first thing in the morning. She has the "special trucks" set up before we arrive and shows them to Matt right away... she has won that boy over like you wouldn't believe! This week he went into class without a single tear, and today he actually ran to Ms. Dorothy with a smile and a hug :) So, Danny has taken over clinging to me and crying in the mornings.

This morning as he snuggled into my arms he kept saying "Mama, I want you,". I'd say "I want you too buddy... that's why I'll be back as soon as school is over. I always come back!" to which he would say, "Mama, I WANT you". After a few rounds I said "I'll be back you have fun with your friends,". He won this round when he answered, "You me friend Mama. You me friend. I play with Mamma. I want you... you me friend."

Need I say more? Precious and heartbreaking. I think those are two of the words I use the most when I describe motherhood. Sweet boy, I always "want you" more than you can imagine. I love you.

Why Didn't Someone Tell Me This A Year Ago?

2009-09-13T21:35:00.005-04:00

Haircuts have been traumatic for Team Taylor. Seriously. Trauma is the only word I can use to describe it. You say "snip" around my boys and they instantly scream, cover their heads, and yell "OUCH!" (yes... my children are all dramatic... I'm expecting to be thanked in an Emmy acceptance speech in about 20 years...)

So, for anyone who has not yet figured out the steps to a successful hair cut with a toddler (or muliple toddlers!) I'll spell it out for you.

Step 1: Take your shaggy haired child(ren) to a very sweet, animated hair-stylist. There is a reason people pay professionals to do this. Learn from my mistakes, do not attempt to cut your child's hair yourself. It's not worth it. Really, it's not. (AND when she is on vacation... don't think you can go to someone else just because they work in the same establishment. If you ask if they are comfortable with toddlers and they pause LEAVE. Take it from me. Smile and LEAVE.)

Step 2: Let them put stickers anywhere they want too... Seriously ANYWHERE. Their legs? How creative! Daddy's face? What a great idea!

Step 3: Pack your purse with M&M's... a lot of M&M's! I'm not a mom who gives my kids a lot of candy (that's what grandparents are for!)... but this is a situation that calls for it. Pack an arsenal and don't be afraid to use it!

Step 4: Take the family out to celebrate and enjoy looking at your little boys (that now look like little boys again!)

(Note: No tears were shed and no toddlers were hurt during these haircuts... That's what I call success!)

My Squishy One...

2009-09-13T21:12:00.002-04:00

Okay... technically he's not my squishy one... but I could not love my little nephew anymore if he was mine! ... I've said it before and I'll say it again I LOVE a chubby baby!

Just LOOK at those rolls! ... He even has baby cankles! LOVE it!

Even his ARMS have rolls!

My babies never had rolls... you can count the ribs on all 3 of my children... but, oh, my Lukie... he totally fulfills my "squishy" needs.
Pure delight.

Labor Day Weekend

2009-09-13T20:41:00.003-04:00

Well, I'm a bit behind on my blogging... working full-time sure cuts into my blogging time (actually my "get absolutely anything accomplished time"... but I digress).

Last weekend Kirsten was in Illinois with Brian's family. I'm not quite sure why I ever agreed too it (okay, okay, it was an informed decision... I wanted her to have the chance to see her great-grandfather, visit with her great aunts and spend time with Tyler... but I didn't like it!). I just hate when Kirsten is away. I hate it. Everything is too quiet. It's sad how I always think I want things quiet... until they are... then it just feels empty. But she had a wonderful time, as everyone knew she would, and we found ways to fill the hours while she was gone.

Luckily, Maureen, Ryan, and Luke came into town to help liven things up for us! We spent Sunday at the beach... and while it was hotter than the surface of the sun, it was a beautiful day, and we had a great time!

I love this picture of Maureen and Luke!

Mimi and Matt had an awesome time in the water together. They were laughing so hard and squealing so loud that Danny (who is much more hesitant in the water) decided to join them. They were sitting in the exact place where the waves were breaking to maximize their excitement :) Grandpa had to jump in to help stabilize them for a photo...

...There we go!

I think it's funny to see the laughing faces of Mimi and Matt in this picture... Danny... not so much. About one second after this was taken, he decided they were crazy and demanded that I pick him up and go build sandcastles with him :)

Maureen and Luke in another picture I love. I always think that pictures of mom's feeding and rocking babies on the beach are very sweet... they look so relaxed... so much the OPPOSITE of how I felt when my babies were that age :)

We all spend Monday grilling out and swimming in Mimi and Grandpa's pool. It was an awesome spread! Kirsten would be very sad to know that she missed steak and shrimp... two of her favorite foods that her mother NEVER serves her!

I love, love, love this picture of Matt loving Luke. Love it.

We had a great weekend and when it was over my sweet girl came back home to me where she belongs :)

Choo Choo Love

2009-09-12T22:49:00.003-04:00

My friend Tiffany and her little ones Dylan and Isaac gave the boys an amazing set of trains for their second birthday. They've enjoyed them from day 1... but recently the love of trains has reached monumental proportions. Both boys enjoy playing with their "choo choos" but my man Matt loves those trains! And I love the way he comes and takes me by the hand to lead me to the basket of train toys saying "choo choos Mama". There is nothing like being "asked" to play by your child... you might not feel like it, you might be exhausted and cranky, building yet another train track might be the last thing in the world you want to do... but when you see the dimples of your child as he takes you by the hand to play... you feel awesome.

I love those trains even more then Matt does. I love watching him grow and play, I love that he is becoming interested in something specific, and I love that he loves playing with me.

(Notice Matt, all full of dimples in the photo, and Danny... planning his destruction... some things never change.)

Grammy's Birthday... And Kirsten's New Grill

2009-09-12T22:09:00.005-04:00

Grammy's birthday fell on an exciting date this year... 09-09-09... pretty awesome right? Too bad she was way to sick to celebrate. Friday night she decided she was up for a dinner with Team Taylor (crazy woman). We met up at our favorite family-style pizza restaurant. The kiddos had each made Grammy (aka Mimi) a card, and brought her some roses. Kirsten chose a dozen multi-colored roses and the boys each had a single rose to give her... sweet right? It should have been a precious presentation as we entered the restaurant... and it was... but not quite in the way I'd imagined.

Kirsten gave Grammy her flowers, Danny followed and (with some encouragement) gave Grammy his flower. Matt was in a bit of a mood (very unlike him... he's usually the "easy" child) and needed a lot of guidance. When he finally reached the table he cheered up, I told him, "Give Mimi her flower", and he ripped the blossom off the top of the rose and handed it to Mimi with proud dimples. It was so innocent and so sweet... such an adorable way to ruin her flower :)

This was the only picture I got of Grammy... I had a great picture of Grammy and all 3 little ones staged. Unfortunately I hit the wrong button on the camera and took a video instead. I should figure out how to upload the stupid thing... It starts as an adorable staged photo... then my mom screams and gasps, and the camera shoots up to the ceiling. That was the instant that Matt took a ball point pen to the eye.

...Actually it was just under his eye... but it was JUST under his eye. There was some blood... we couldn't tell where he was hit (by Danny who was "writing"). I grabbed him, ran for the bathroom, and yelled back for Brian. The 3 of us spent some time in the Ladies room and emerged with a bloody, black-eyed little Matt, but (thank God!) his eyeball was fine. It's always an adventure with Team Taylor!

We also enjoyed lots of smiles from Kirsten's new "grill" that night. Kirsten has had 5 teeth pulled in the past 3 weeks and had spacers installed in her mouth. As she's been losing teeth, over the past few years, the new teeth have been fighting for space. Recently, Brian said she had "shark teeth" because she was getting 2 rows... there was not enough room for the new teeth coming in, so her "grill" was becoming quite interesting.

People always tell us how beautiful Kirsten is (I hope that doesn't sound obnoxious in print... but it's true)... my joking answer is always that nature didn't prepare me for such a beautiful daughter... my genes were supposed to create a simple, average, pretty child... not a true beauty (it's a bit of a self-deprecating joke that again may not "read right" but it makes people laugh) ANYWAY... when Kirsten was 3 she had a very sweet ENT doctor that I used to make this joke with. His answer was always that I should "pray for braces and non-scarring acne". He said that would be the only way for us to make it though the teenage years. It was really funny. The way these teeth are coming in, I'm thinking the orthodontia may be enough to do the trick... I may not even need to pray for other adolescent awkwardnesses :)

"Nanny, Nanny, Boo, Boo", Superman, and "Mommy Guilt"... because I feel like venting

2009-09-04T20:32:00.006-04:00

The past few weeks have been busy, and hard, and stressful, and sweet. To sum things up "working sucks". I guess that's not really fair... I like teaching kindergarten. I have a nice (although very, very, very, loud and busy) group this year. They keep me on my toes and my day goes very fast. BUT there are no words to describe how much I hate not being home with my children.

It will be fine. We'll get into a groove. We'll adjust. We'll still have 16 weeks of vacation to soak each other up each year. It will be fine. But right now it's hard.

I feel very "out of the loop" with Kirsten's school this year. I can't figure out if it's just the difference between being a "little kid" in first and second grade and a "big kid" in third grade or if it has to do with my work. I was very sad that I couldn't take her on the first day... but I was at open house... I do homework with her each night, (a lot of homework... a lot) and I've already conferenced with her great teacher... so it's probably just in my head. I miss dropping her off and picking her up. I miss the stupid car line. (Whoever would think you could miss that obnoxious carline?)

I hate dropping the boys off in the mornings. It's much harder on me than it is on them (or at least that's what I choose to believe) but I hate it so much. The "Grandpa Days" are easy. Those feel familiar... I'm okay with that. (God bless that man.) But Matt cries very, very hard when we pull up to school, and that makes Danny cry, and that makes me cry, and that's a crappy way to start the day. I leave my screaming, crying children to go take care of other children... it just doesn't feel right... However, I thank God for their school. The teachers are so loving and patient (with me AND the boys). I call when I get to school each morning and they always assure me that the boys are happy and stopped crying very quickly, and they never act like they mind that I am 1 of 200 parents they have each day, and they never make me feel like I shouldn't be calling all the time.

I know we will all adjust and be fine. I'm sure in October (my favorite month of the year... that magical time when the weather is beautiful, teaching becomes "fun", and everything is easy) we will be in a happy, comfortable routine. But I can't help but point out, for the record (because this blog is my "record"), that it feels very unnatural. It feels like a mother is not supposed to leave her children for eight hours a day. It feels like they are supposed to be with me.

I am rational. I have the best "gig" for a working mom. I work on Kirsten's schedule. I'm off at 3:15 each day and get tons of vacation time... but it's still unnatural. Although, we haven't had the easiest of initiations. Since I've been back at work both boys have been very sick (at different times) and Kirsten had to have "oral surgery" (just some teeth pulled to make room for spacers... but still something I should have been there for). Lots to have "mommy guilt" for...

...But in the hard stuff, we are also blessed with so much laughter. The boys' worlds are getting so much bigger. They have teachers, and schedules, and friends. They are starting to come up with things that I don't know anything about (which I both love and hate.) Last week Danny climbed on a piece of furniture (shocking) and cried, "Mama, look at me! I Superman! I Superman! Superman FLY!!!!". I thought this was so funny. "Superman?" I said, "Where did you learn about Superman? At school?". He laughed a deep belly laugh and said "School. Me friends. Superman FLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" It was the definition of adorable.

Then tonight he climbed on my lap and made a silly face saying, "Mama... Nanny, Nanny, Boo, Boo!" I laughed and he repeated. I laughed again and asked him "where did you learn 'nanny, nanny, boo, boo'?" and he said, "Me". "Do your friends say that?" I asked. "No. Me. ME 'nanny, nanny, boo, boo,". He's so original. :)

Kirsten is doing GREAT at school. GREAT. I am so thrilled. So proud, and happy, and thrilled.

...And when the boys climb into my lap and say, "Mamma, I want you," and I say, "Mamma's here... you have me," and they say, "Mamma I WANT you," my heart smiles and breaks at the same time.

We're Famous! (Well, Not Really... BUT...)

2009-09-03T21:45:00.005-04:00

Matt and Danny's gorgeous picture is featured on the Multiples and More blog header. It's very exciting. I don't know why... it just is. I think that means they are the most beautiful babies ever (but I already knew that!)

I also think it means that a certain someone's photography skills are as amazing as I've always thought... (and this was taken BEFORE she got the fancy camera!)

See if you can guess which ones they are! I'll update over the weekend with the answer :)

Look Out Third Grade... Here She Comes!

2009-08-25T18:40:00.005-04:00

Today was Kirsten's first day of third grade. THIRD GRADE. I can't believe it. It was also Brian's first day teaching high school and my first day teaching kindergarten (since I've been on leave for over 2 years.) It was a bit of a hectic morning. Kirsten was up at 5 am with a nervous stomach. Brian had to leave at 6:15 so I had to get everyone up, dressed, packed and out the door by 7:30. Let me tell you that is a lot of work to do before 7:30 am! All morning I was feeling a little sad that I hadn't been able to walk Kirsten into school, see her classroom, and meet her teacher. I was SO SO SO happy to hear that, once again, Grandpa came to the rescue :) (for my nerves if nothing else). Not only did my dad take Kirsten to school, walk her in, get her settled at her desk... BUT he also took pictures of it all! Yea!

Kirsten all ready for the first day! (With an awesome new backpack from Aunt Maureen!)

Kirsten and Grammy heading out for a great day!

I LOVE this picture. Great job Dad!

Kirsten with her new teacher, Ms. Phillips. Kirsten is very excited to be in Ms. Phillips' class and I think it's the start of a great year!

BCFL! (Best Cousins for Life)

2009-08-24T07:08:00.003-04:00

About 3 minutes after meeting for the first time, Kirsten and Bridget had formed a lifelong bond. Yesterday Kirsten and I rode over to Orlando (with Grammy and Grandpa) to meet up with my cousin Jennifer, her daughter Bridget, Maureen, Ryan, and "little" Luke.

The girls instantly bonded. They laughed, they colored, the cuddled and fed Luke, and they both cried when it was time to say goodbye.

Luke got a lot of love from these two sweeties.

I simply cannot get enough of this baby's chub. I adore it. I love, love, love his rolls. I swear I just sit and giggle and squeeze his chub when I get to hold him (which is not half as often as I'd like! Kirsten and Grammy provide a lot of competition for snuggle time!)

I'm sorry I didn't get a picture of Jen and I with our girls.. We're hoping they'll make another trip down soon so we'll have to make that our first priority next time!

Yeah for Pre-K!

2009-08-18T18:09:00.003-04:00

Today Matt and Danny started preschool. I can't believe it. My babies are so big! Luckily, most of the tears shed today were mine. The boys did great and had so much fun. I am so relieved!

Here are my big boys and I getting ready to head out for the big day!

The sign outside the preschool reads "God's Most Beautiful Thoughts Blossom Into Children". I love it.

"Are you ready to do this, buddy?" ... "Totally!"

Aunt Maureen and Baby Luke sent the boys all the preschool necessities... Yo Gabba Gabba lunchboxes, Diego backpacks, and Cars blankets. The backpacks are about as big as the boys :)

Big Boy Matt walking to his class with Ms. Debbie.

Ms. Debbie and Danny, Matt, and I... right before I cried my eyes out in the van.

...On a funny side note this is one of the boys' awesome new lunchboxes...

When we opened up the box I said, "Wow! A lunchbox... that's just like sissy's! You can put all your food for lunch in there!" Ten minutes later I found the lunchbox full of food. CUTE.

Slippery When Wet

2009-08-11T18:00:00.000-04:00

Last week Team Taylor made a stop at the new splash park and let me tell you... my kids LOVED it! (Kirsten loved it so much that she gave us a very hard time leaving... not my favorite part... but other than that it was awesome!)

The boys loved the thrill of going down the slides at turbo speed while wet!

Go Gators!

The playground at this park is just awesome!

I think the boys went down this slide about 50 times each. Each little rod rolls to make the slide fast and bumpy. They were SO taken in with it. They did it over, and over, and over, and over... (you get the idea)

Here is my worn out little boy in a "big cool swing" as Kirsten called it.

Good times.

No, You're Not Seeing Double

2009-08-10T20:56:00.000-04:00

We had the chance for a double date (get it? ha!) with Sarah, her neices, her sister, Derek, and Jeremy. The entire car ride to the aquarium Danny practiced saying, "Helllllloooooo Ladies" but he froze up when the big moment arrived.

Lobster Love. (How cute is this picture of Matt?)

We loved hanging out with the fish and our new friends!

Preschool Visit

2009-08-09T20:37:00.003-04:00

The boys are going to be starting school next week (aaagggghhhh!! Where did my babies go?). We went to visit Kirsten's alma mater so the boys could start to get comfortable.

The boys met their very nice teacher and found out what school is all about!

Playgrounds...

Big Boy Cups...

...And New Friends!

Buddies At the Beach

2009-08-09T20:35:00.000-04:00

... and notice the busy little blondes in the backround :)

Terrific Tuesday!

2009-08-04T20:25:00.004-04:00

We had such a nice morning at the aquarium today! It wasn't crowded AT ALL. Kirsten gets so excited every time we're there. It's really cute. AND the boys stayed in their stroller the whole time! They were excited to look at all the fish and creatures and were easy to keep track of. It was awesome :)

Kirsten was pointing out the tiny hermit crabs on the bottom of this tank. I love the looks on all their little faces. Such curiosity!

"Mama! I want fish! I want see fish! More fish Mama!". So much for my attempt at a posed picture.

I love this picture of Matt. He has this expression quite often but it's hard to catch it on camera. I love when he gets excited.

Ahoy Mateys! Everyone had a great time exploring this pirate ship.

I am always amazed at how brave my kids are. All 3 of them!

...Even when they are riding turtles

...Or being eaten by alligators :)

Surf's Up dude!

Ever the protective big sister. "I got you little buddy". Precious.

Life As a Little Brother

2009-07-31T22:19:00.000-04:00

Someday I'm sure they'll tell tales of how their big sister tortured them... but today they loved it.

Matt

Danny

The fun did suddenly turn to a lot of screaming. Brian and I I went into the room to see what was going on and Matt was desperately trying to get his shirt on (which was really upsetting Kirsten). Brian told her to let him get dressed and huge tears rolled down her cheeks as she cried, "If he puts on his shirt I can't get the tutu on! He won't look like a real ballerina!" (Brian had to leave the room because he couldn't stop laughing and it wasn't helping the situation.)

Finally! Our Friday Fun

2009-07-31T19:04:00.003-04:00

At the end of July I declared to everyone I know that I would be at the beach every Friday morning for the rest of the summer. "The more the merrier! We'll be there so feel free to join us!" Except we never made it. Kirsten got sick, the boys had shots, there were swim meets, vacation, and rainy days. Yesterday I realized I only have TWO more Fridays of my summer left. (That does NOT make me happy.) BUT today we finally made it to the beach with a large group of friends. That does make me happy.

I think this picture should be captioned "Little Men At Work". I think it is so cute. I love all the little boys surrounded by trucks and shovels. The moment we arrived they all got to work. It was so cute and they all played so nicely together.

Our little blondies also had a great time together.

We were determined to get a group shot of the kids. Finally, we decided to just drop them down in the sand and run out of the way. I think this one came really good!

...and this one just cracks me up. I took about seven of the group shots and most of them are much more like this :)

If you are looking for me next Friday I will absolutely, positively be at the beach! Really. I promise.

K. Love

2009-07-31T05:16:00.004-04:00

This is your newest nickname. I've been calling you this quite a bit recently and your brothers have quickly picked up on it. Danny is often found outside your bedroom door yelling, "K. Love! K. Love! Home, K. Love?"

You turned eight this month, something I'm still having a hard time wrapping my head around. Eight is big. It's the age of reason and accountability, the beginning of "middle childhood", and a 'tween. I feel like you are on the brink. You are examining things and figuring them out... teetering between intellect and innocence. For example, last week we had a very serious discussion about God. You told me that when you pray, you aren't sure if God is "really talking" back to you or if it is your imagination. We had a long talk about listening to your conscience and being quiet and faithful. At the end of our very serious discussion you told me, with twinkling eyes, that you think God is telling you to ask for some ice cream. I love you so much.

You and Daddy have enjoyed many summertime slurpees over the past few weeks, a new treat and a new little ritual for you two to share. Daddy and I take great delight when you pronounce them as "shooshies". At first I think it was a legitimate mispronunciation and we so love these last "baby" moments. Now you seem to be humoring us each time you say it. Whatever, we'll still take it :)

Your joy and kindness is infectious. You took every bit as much delight in the birthdays of Daddy and I as you did in your own. Each day was met with a before dawn wake-up call because you can't sleep when you're excited. You squeal and jump up and down when others open gifts and make every moment more special. You pray for Sarah each morning and each night and used your birthday wish to hope she would "get better and not be scared,". You're already trying to grow your hair for a wig donation again and you keep offering it to Sarah. It is so, so precious.

You can't wait to start third grade and you are thrilled with the idea that the boys will be attending "baby school". You've enjoyed every moment of being outside this summer and make sure that I plan "something fun" for us to do each day. You can't get enough of the water and have really developed your swimming skills this summer. You are obsessed with the weather channel and can sing karaoke like a little rock star.

While you are "too big for princesses" you are not to big to cuddle in my lap and demand "rubbies". I hope you always feel and know my love for you, sweet girl. Sometimes I feel guilty that I don't really know what I'm doing as a parent... I feel like my motto is "Fake it until you make it,". I'm learning as I go with you and I pray for patience and guidance each night. Please know that every word I speak to you and every breath I take is filled with my unconditional love for you.

You, my sweet K. Love, are everything to me. I adore you always.

Mommy

...So if Matthew is My Sweetness, What Does That Make You Daniel?

2009-07-30T22:08:00.002-04:00

...my laughter. You are such a funny, strong-willed little boy. It's interesting, that while Matt is your twin, you and Kirsten seem to be the kindred spirits. You both have more energy, more opinions, and get into more predicaments than I ever imagined possible... but, oh how you make me laugh!

And while everyone says you are "all Taylor" and look "just like Daddy" this month you made it clear that you've got some Mommy in you as well. Everyday I get to greet a new freckle on your nose and you never stop talking. You use full 4word sentences and new words all the time. Usually to tell me exactly what you want me to do.

Me: Danny would you like a banana?
You: No Mamma... no banana. I want plum.
Me: You want a plum? (I had no idea you knew that word)
You: Yes Mamma. Plum. I like plum. No banana mama. NO banana! PLUM PLEASE!

You are constanly calling, "Mama, come here" in a sing-songy voice, but whenever I call you, you answer "One minute. One minute Mama okay? Okay one minute?"

You love to pretend you are talking on the phone and toy phones have become completely unacceptable. You grab any (real) phone you can find and have entire conversations. "Hello? Hello Mimi. Hello Grandpa. No. No Grandpa. Hello? Bye bye." Repeat. Over and over and over.

I've been trying to teach you and Matt to share for several months now and we have a little system that really works great. We all count to 6 (I don't know why it's 6 it just is) and then declare "Time to share!". It works every time. I don't know why but it's the best made-up parenting technique I've come up with yet. Anyway, you've really taken it to heart and if Daddy tries to keep his cell phone out of your reach you calmly begin counting, "One, Five, Six... Time to Share! SHARE Dada!!"

While we were on vacation your cousin Erin babysat with Brenna one night. After Kirsten and Matt were asleep they turned off all the lights and handed you their cell phones. They said you spent 45 minutes with a phone in each ear chatting away until you fell asleep. (Obviously not ALL Taylor :)

You love to sing in Kirsten's karaoke machine and get very annoyed when she won't let you use the loudest microphone. You think it's hilarious to pretend to bite me and to run away from me when I'm trying to get you dressed. After your bath each night I wrap you in a towel and spend a moment snuggling you and singing a sweet little song in your ear ("The Best Baby in the World"). I've been doing this since you were just a few months old. This month you've began singing along with me. You sing LOUD. It is so funny to hear you belt out this sweet, soft lullaby in your crazy toddler voice.

You are so funny and so adorable. You are growing up much too fast. I can't believe what a little boy you are now. Where did my baby go?

I love you so much, little buddy. More than you'll ever be able to imagine.

Mommy

Pure Sweetness

2009-07-30T21:19:00.003-04:00

That is how I think of you, my sweet Matty, sweetness personified. You are full of dimples and delight and I love you so.

This month you seem to have become even more affectionate. You've always loved to snuggle but now when I hug you, you stretch your tiny arms around me and squeeze back. To say you melt my heart is a major understatement.

You've always been "Daddy's boy" and if I ask you if you are "Mommy's baby" in his presence you insist, "No mama. No mama baby. DADDY." BUT when he's not around you cuddle into my lap, touch my face, and say "My mama." I'll take it.

In addition to being my sweetness, you are also my water baby. You LOVE the water. You love to go to the beach, jump into the pool, and push in everyone sitting on the edge. You still love to sing and dance and you are starting to really enjoy books. I love when you chose one of your favorites (often one that has musical buttons) and climb into my lap.

You and your brother talk so much now. It's really amazing to watch your language develop. Your favorite songs are "The Wheels On the Bus", "Row, Row, Row Your Boat", and "Old MacDonald" (or "Eee Aye Oh with a duck" as you like to call it).

You love to play with blocks and build some very impressive structures. Whenever anyone asks you what your building you say "Mamma's house". The moment Danny glances in your direction you start yelling "NO! Danny no!" but it never does any good. He can't resist knocking down your houses and happily puts himself in timeout afterwards. Although, you get him back by taking his pool toys (which he is very serious about) and flinging them as far across the pool as you can.

I'm enjoying watching the relationship between you two build so much. I love the way you call for him, "Da-eee". You woke up from your nap before Danny recently and kept asking for him. I told you we were going to go play and let Danny rest, to which you replied "Oh no!" with the most broken-hearted look. You continued to call for Danny every 2 or 3 minutes and finally decided to 'make a break for it' and run to the stairway screaming "Da-eee! Da-eee! Up! Please Up!". Slightly frustrating. Incredibly endearing.

You've learned to open the refrigerator, which has led to some interesting snacks. You often help yourself to some cheese, a tub of sour cream, or an entire tomato. How you are still so tiny I'll never understand. You NEVER stop eating.

We have been potty training this month and you've become quite accustomed to walking around without pants on. In fact, you often downright refuse to get dressed. However, you like to wear shoes. So it is not at all uncommon for someone to drop by the house and find you wearing nothing but sandals.

You make me laugh so often. Daddy accidentally called you by the wrong name yesterday and you turned to him, rolled your eyes, pointed to your chest and growled and said, "MATT. Dada me Matt." So funny.

Thank you for bringing joy to my life every single day. You are my sweetness and my love.

Mommy

Our Chunky Monkey

2009-07-30T12:22:00.006-04:00

There is nothing cuter that a chubby baby. I love it. I love the rolls of fat. I love the gigantic cheeks and thighs. Until recently Isaac was my favorite "little" guy. But then Tiffany let him become a toddler and he started thinning out. It was very, very sad.

Luckily, Luke has taken his place... And has he ever! My "little" nephew is four months old and a whopping 17+ lbs!! My boys weighed 16 lbs on their first birthdays! There is no danger of this chunky monkey winding up in the first percentile on growth charts like all his cousins!

As Chelsea Handler (my favorite late night talk show host) would say, "Now, I will leave you with 'Fat Baby'!"

**FYI: The pictures do NOT do him justice. He is wayyyyyy squishier in person :)

My Dream Job

2009-07-29T22:06:00.002-04:00

Have you heard the saying, "If you do what you love you'll never work a day in your life,". It always makes me roll my eyes. Isn't that awful? I'm not a cynical person at all. But let's face it work is work.

I'm thinking a lot about going back to work... the countdown is on. It's been a good ride for over 2 years now and I know it's time... but I'm nervous. I'm nervous in that way that I always get when things are about to change. I don't like waiting. I wish the change would just get here already.

Then Brad Pitt said something stupid. I don't even remember what it was, but I was watching E! in the middle of the night (because that's what you do in the middle of the night if you can't sleep) and he said something stupid. I don't even remember what it was now... but it really irritated me at the time and led me to my epiphany.

I really like teaching. I really do. I find it fun and interesting. I enjoy being a part of the lives of these little people. I really like it. (But it is definitely work.)

So, anyway, Brad helped me figure out my dream job. I want to be a nanny... but, here's the kicker, I want to be a nanny for my own kids. Think about it for a minute. It's brilliant.

I was a nanny in college. I loved it. My job was to play. To sit on the floor and sing and play. To give my undivided attention to two tiny people. I got paid for it.

If I won the lottery the last thing in the world I would do would be to hire a nanny! I want to hire someone to be me. I want someone to pay the bills, plan the meals, do the shopping, clean the house, fold the laundry... you get the picture. I want my only responsibily to be sitting on the floor playing with my children. I want my job to be laughing with them and soaking them up.

So, I guess I'll probably never be one of those people who will "never work a day in your life" but I'd like to thank Brad Pitt for saying something stupid and helping me put things into perspective... I'm going to make an effort to "play" nanny more. I need more moments of just soaking them up. I'm going to pretend that's my job... because really it is. Everything else will wait. (Seriously, it will. My dirty dishes are not going anywhere) ...and I'd like to put my nanny resume out there... if anyone would like to pay me to play with my children while they do my cooking and cleaning please let me know :)

Vacation!!

2009-07-29T19:42:00.006-04:00

We just got back from our family vacation to Orlando. We are exhausted and tan (well, at least Kirsten is... I'm pink). It was a really fun trip. The packing and planning was intense and I came home with no voice and serious sleep deprivation... but it was worth every minute :)

In addition to the Ward/Taylor crew the Maloneys were with us as well. I'm very bummed that I didn't get a picture of the whole group. Kirsten had a wonderful time with Erin and Brenna. They are such beautiful, sweet girls. ...And Danny had a great time taunting and chasing Uncle John. Good times.

There wasn't much rest... I think this may have been the only restful moment of the week. It's good I have proof that at least once I had a sleepy child :)

I snuck in a nap Sunday afternoon while my little ones sang "Rain, rain go away" 500 times.

When the sun came back out, so did the dimples.

We had a great time visiting with Baby Luke. Since we've been home Danny keeps asking "Where Baby Luke? Baby Luke? Baby Luke and Maureen?". My crazy ones sure love that baby!

Grandpa is so funny

I like this shot of me and my wild ones. They are so silly. This was during one of our many trips to the resort's playcenter.

This playcenter was awesome. It was very, very clean and very well run. The big kids were measured when the arrived and had to be under 52 inches to play. It was never too crowded or too wild.

As always, Kirsten was a great help with the boys. She was very helpful during the first run-through... after that the boys were off on their own!

Kirsten showed off her karaoke skills in a poolside contest

Her cheering section got a little rowdy ;)

Here are a few more pictures of our poolside fun!

...And my favorite picture of the week. I snapped this picture of my view pushing the stroller. My sweet boys love each other so much. It makes my heart smile.

Swim Team Wrap-Up

2009-07-23T02:41:00.002-04:00

Kirsten had her last swim meet of the season last Friday. (I can't believe that the summer is already starting to wrap-up... Where did it go??) She's had a great time exercising, competing, and collecting ribbons :)

Here she is diving in for her last race of the season.

I think this picture is so funny. Dean (Kallee's dad) is always commenting on Kirsten's athletic ability. Last week he kept saying that Kirsten is the only one in her age group who dives correctly. "All the other kids look like spider monkeys." I laughed and disagreed... until I saw this picture. The little one in the lane next to Kirsten really does look like a spider monkey. So funny.

Kirsten and Kallee... two of the prettiest little swimmers I've ever seen.

Great season Gracie Girl!

More Summer Fun

2009-07-23T02:20:00.002-04:00

Last week (while my parents were in Orlando) I had a spur of the moment pool party at their house. My "go to the beach every Friday" plan hasn't been working out. Last Friday Kirsten had an afternoon swim meet and there were some very dark clouds... this made a pool date seem like a better idea. Corrie and her little cuties joined us and we played until all the kids were cranky and ready for naps :)

My dad likes to call Danny a "mad scientist". He LOVES to pour, fill, and empty his little bowls and pails. He does it for so long and is so content (until Matt steals one of his bowls and throws it across the pool. He does NOT like that.)

Corrie with Malia and Noah

Snack time... a huge hit and the perfect ending to a fun morning in the sun!

My Best Friend Has Cancer

2009-07-21T21:44:00.005-04:00

...how's that for jumping right in? That's a weird, awful name for a post... but there is no other way to start.

7 weeks ago Sarah was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma. She went to the doctor because she thought she had a sinus infection. She had one swollen lymph node.

Thank God the cure rate is excellent. She is going to be okay. In the long run it's all going to be okay. But this is my BEST friend. My college roomate, my sorority sister, my road-trip buddy, my bridesmaid, my son's Godmother. My BEST friend.

I can't write this without asking everyone who reads it to pray for her. I know she'll be okay but prayers always help. That's not why I'm writing this though. I'm writing this because my best friend has cancer and she is hilarious, amazing, and inspirational. That's the part I want to remember about all this.

Since being diagnosed her Facebook statuses have included:

"I have cancer. That toooootally beats your case of the Mondays."
"When life gives you Lymphoma make Lymphonaide"
"Port was "installed" today. Unfortunatley it does not charge my Ipod."
"Bulking up for chemo... one slice of pizza at a time."
"Round 1 of chemo today. Hey cancer are your ready to ruuuuuumble?"
"Sarah - 1, Cancer - 0"
"I hope I beat the other teams in trivia tonight as good as I beat cancer today."

She let me sit with her for the entire 8 hours of her first chemo treatment. She texted, teased her sweet nurse, and ate cookies.She laughed, gossiped, and told jokes. During chemo. She's my hero :)

Last Friday night she celebrated the first step toward her recovery with a "Chemo Crawl" through several South Tampa pubs. She got a huge group of people together to dress up, dance, drink too much, and "show cancer who's boss." It was AWESOME.

No one loves a costume more than Sarah. The disappointment of the night was that the monogrammed scrubs she ordered didn't arrived in time. She had to settle for "generic" scrubs. Poor girl.

The pre-party

Me and my BFF (I'm not so into costumes...)

I was the only one though... even the beer dressed up. Ace bandages served as coozies for the night.

Who knew cancer could be so fun?

There is no better excuse to air-guitar at 2 am than kicking cancer's a**

I'll always be your back-up girl. I love you!

You'd Expect Me to Be Skinny...

2009-07-21T15:57:00.002-04:00

because all three of my children are so tiny! All 3 kids had their annual physicals this week. They are all very healthy and very, very tiny!

Here are the Team Taylor Summer '09 Stats:

Kirsten: 48.5" (20th percentile) and 42 lbs (1st percentile)
Matthew: 32" (1st percentile) and 22.5 lbs (1st percentile)

...And the Chunky Monkey of the group

Daniel: 32.5" (4th percentile) and 23.5 lbs (3rd percentile) Ha!

You sure wouldn't guess how much these kiddos eat! They never stop eating! For breakfast today Kirsten had a breakfast protien shake, a scooop of peanutbutter and some crackers. Matt and Danny each had an adult-sized bowl of oatmeal, a bananna, 1/2 a cup of blueberries, and crackers. I would KILL for that kind of metabolism!!

The doctor assured us that, while they are all "officially" underweight, they are all perfectly healthy and perfectly proportional. She commented that they twins' language skills seemed very advanced and that they seemed "very smart"... but I could have told you that ;)

Party Like A Rock Star

2009-07-18T22:29:00.004-04:00

Since eight year olds are "too old for princesses" (how sad is that??), Kirsten celebrated her birthday with a Disney Rock N' Roll party. It was the perfect way to combine Hannah Montana, the Jonas Brothers, and High School Musical into one group!

The girls started their celebration with a toast of pink Sprite. Cheers!

The girls each had a rock 'n roll makeover (which they LOVED). They covered themselves with body glitter and lip gloss, were given manicures by Grammy, and had their hair colored pink, purple, and blue.

Danny LOVED watching the hair coloring. He kept saying "Me too! Me too hair!" It was so cute :)

After his coloring one of the girls gave him a "Baby Hawk". ...Nothing says happy birthday like a blue Mohawk!

The girls came up with some very unique costumes and performed a show for us using Kirsten's new karaoke machine.

For weeks Kirsten has been talking about a Jonas Brothers cake. However, when she saw this Hannah Montana cake at Publix she was sold. It was so cute and so delicious.

Because I'm a little neurotic and because the main ingredient in the hair color is propane I had all the girls help Kirsten blow out her candles and made them all stay far away from the fire.

Kirsten's friend Haylie stayed for awhile after the party. I love Haylie. She is so so sweet. I like all the little girls that Kirsten is friends with but Haylie is the PERFECT match for Kirsten. She is very calm and patient. She brings out the best in Kirsten. I just love when they spend time together!

I also love this photo of the sweet, snuggling that went on at the after-party.

Take Me Out to the Ball Game

2009-07-17T09:32:00.000-04:00

How cute are Kirsten and Grandpa in their matching Rays hats? Love it.

I LOVE being 29! (again)

2009-07-16T21:37:00.000-04:00

My family is so sweet. I had a wonderful 29th birthday! (Maybe because I've practiced it a few years in a row now ;) Brian got me the greatest chocolate, chocolate cake. Mmmmmm. I got to sleep in, woke up to breakfast, beautiful flowers and gifts, and a packed car! We headed out for family day at the beach, cake at my parents house, and date night at my favorite restaurant. Perfect, perfect day.

What's a girl to wish for when she has such a wonderful family?

(... a housekeeper. I wished for a housekeeper.)

Whoever Coined the Phrase "I Slept Like a Baby"...

2009-07-16T09:35:00.000-04:00

was either a terrible sleeper or an idiot.

Summer Fun

2009-07-15T21:45:00.002-04:00

Is there anything cuter than freckles and dimples?

...Maybe spikey, red, baby hair?

I love these kids so much.

"Cool! I wanna do that Mom!"

Summer rocks.

Olympic Material

2009-07-15T21:37:00.004-04:00

Kirsten is all athlete. Proof positive she has none of my genes. First, gymnast of the year, and now the "Fly Girl" for the Shore Acres swim team! (That's because she is so great at the butterfly stroke. It is not her favorite... but she is good!)

...Her backstroke's not bad either!

10 Days, 6 Cakes, and 3 Birthdays

2009-07-11T19:44:00.002-04:00

...so we've been busy. Brian's birthday is July 2nd, Kirsten's is the 6th, and mine is the 12th. We also celebrate July 4th somewhere in there... needless to say it's a busy time of celebration.

Brian's parents held a "July Birthday Bash" on the 5th and we had a great time.

There was swimming

And Sliding

Adorable Cakes

And a star was born!

Grandma and Grandpa Don bought Kirsten a karaoke machine for her birthday. Needless to say, it was a HUGE hit!

All American Fun

2009-07-07T21:16:00.005-04:00

Every year my parents host a huge July 4th barbecue. We had a really good time (even though we didn't get to meet up with our friends at the beach for fireworks like I'd hoped.)

Here is our July fourth family photo! (I love alliteration.)

...Me and my best girls :) I was so happy that Sarah and Kyle took a break from all their "cool" parties to hang out with us and do the family thing.

...Danny practicing his sharing skills with Grandpa Don.

Grandpa's Guy

I love, love, love this picture. LOVE it.

When we decided to nix the beach fireworks Brian broke out some sparklers and fireworks in the yard. (No... it wasn't dark yet. The reason we didn't go out to the beach is that the kids were falling asleep in the yard from exhaustion.)

I love this "meeting of the minds" photo.

My All American Beauty

...Told you they were tired!

...And a blast from the past! This is the July 4th picnic two years ago.

(Notice that the twins were smaller than the beer bottles. Appropriate? Maybe not. Funny? Definitely.)

Eight Is Great!

2009-07-06T22:20:00.004-04:00

My little girl turned eight years old today. EIGHT. I can't process that. She was turning four yesterday. YESTERDAY. I still remember the pink gingham dress with little lavender flowers that she wore on her fourth birthday. I though four sounded so old. Now she is eight.

My joyful girl had a wonderful birthday... and I had a wonderful time spending time with my girl.

My mom took off work to spend the day at the beach with the birthday girl, her brothers, and I. We had SUCH a good time playing in the sun and water.

Me and my girl (and one of my guys :)

It doesn't get any better than this!

Grammy (as Kirsten calls her) or Mimi (as Matt and Danny call her) helped the boys make a birthday cake for their sissy in the sand.

"What's gonna work? TEAM-WORK!" (This is a line from a kind of obnoxious but very cute song the "Wonder Pets" sing. Matt and Danny like to sing it- very loud- when they are working together. CUTE.)

After the beach we rinsed off in Grammy's pool and Brian and Grandpa joined us for the "present party".

Eight or eighteen? How grown-up does she look in her new dress??

We finished our day-long celebration by going out to dinner... maybe a bit too ambitious for the boys and I :) but fun none the less!

Top 8 Reasons I Love You, Birthday Girl

8. You cry at movies. All movies. We had to leave "Chicken Little" because you started to hyper-ventilate. You have the biggest heart. You are so empathetic and you feel with all your heart (and then some!).

7. You give 110% to everything (except cleaning your room :) You run faster, jump higher, and hug tighter than anyone else I know. You are fully present in every moment of your life. I admire that so much. It makes me want to be like you more than you'll ever know.

6. You are silly, goofy, and fun.

5. You are such an awesome big sister. You love your crazy, little brothers so much. Everyone asks if you get jealous. NEVER. You consider yourself a "little Mommy". You beg to wake up your brothers each morning and they throw themselves on the floor crying when you leave.

4. You are my girly girl. The one I've prayed for and dreamed of since I was eight years old. You love to have your hair curled, toe nails polished, and to wear dresses.

3. You are tough. I think you'll be a great athlete someday... or some other "tough", "cool" thing that I've never been. When you fall off the bars at gymnastics you jump right back on (and then have to be pulled off by your instructors to stop your bloody nose). It takes a lot to slow you down.

2. You take care of me. You are the person who plays with my hair, and rubs my head because you know I love it. You paint me pictures, write me letters, and tell me secrets. You fill me up in a way that no one else can.

1. You are my baby. You always will be. No matter how big you get... you will always be my little girl. I am so grateful that I get the privilege of being your mother. I love that you are my daughter.

Thank you for the privilege of loving you. You are my heart, little girl.

Rainy Day Fun

2009-07-01T20:41:00.000-04:00

Living in the Sunshine State we are quite stumpted by rainy days. Last week Charlotte and Santi, along with Nicole, Shane, and Antonio, came over for a rainy day playdate.

The boys made the best of their day playing cars, dancing, chasing each other, and enjoying an indoor picnic.

(My little house was quite busy with five energetic little boys... a group shot was NOT going to happen!)

Birthday Princess

2009-06-30T20:29:00.000-04:00

Last weekend the entire Taylor family got together to celebrate Allison's third birthday. My favorite part of the day was playing "Birthday Princess" with Allison and Kirsten. Nothing melts my heart like a little girl pretending to be Cinderella.

Allison got a Slip 'n Slide as a gift. Everyone enjoyed playing, although some did more walking then sliding :)

Allison is at that adorable age where she idolizes older girls. Kirsten is at that adorable age where she loves to lead the little ones in games. What a perfect pair!

We managed to get one decent picture of all the cousins together (along with Brian and Uncle Jeff).

Happy Birthday Allison! We hope your Birthday wish comes true!

Tastes Like Chicken

2009-06-29T21:56:00.006-04:00

... and other stuff that makes me smile 'cuz kids say the darndest things.

Matt: "More chicken please!"
Me: "This is (insert any food here... really anything... spaghetti, ham,
scrambled eggs, you get the idea). Do you want more _______?"
Matt: "Yes mama. More chicken please."

***********************************

Brian was carrying the boys around on his back when Kirsten asked for a turn.

Brian: "Just once okay? Remember you're really big now. Didn't you tell me you weigh 43 lbs?"
Kirsten: "It's okay Daddy. I'll hold my breath."

************************************

After watching Matt "go potty" Danny excitedly announces it's his turn. His excitement turns to confusion after a moment as he looks down and announces, "It no work. Mine no work."

A few days later (and a few more "it no work"s later) I asked Danny if he needed to use the potty. He looked me straight in the eye, shrugged his shoulders and earnestly said, "Ummm.... I don't know Mama!". (The "your guess is as good as mine" look on his face made me laugh out loud.)

*************************************

Brian: "Danny, are you a boy or a girl?"
Danny: "Bird."
Brian: "Danny are you a girl like Mommy or a boy like Daddy?
Danny: "Bird"
Brian: "You're a bird?"
Danny: (while flapping his arms like wings to demonstrate) "Yea. Bird.
Wheeeeee!!"

*************************************

As Brian and Matt pass a mirror Matt smiled and called "Danny! Hi Danny!" while waving at his own reflection.

*************************************

Danny: "You okay Mamma?" 100x per day.

Danny: "Mamma!! Come HERE Mama!" 100x per day.

**************************************
While I was applying sunscreen to the boys I made the mistake of walking away to answer the phone. I left the sunscreen on the table. Next to the mustard. I bet you can see where this is going...

Matt: "Mamma! I do mama. I do creme." (While showing off the mustard he rubbed on his cheeks and nose.)

*************************************
While walking out of the room, after success (or dumb luck) on the potty, I patted Danny's bottom and said, "Great job!". For the rest of the day Danny kept reaching around to pat his own bottom and repeat, "Great job! Me, great job!"

**********************************************************************************

The boys now call all Barbie dolls "Sissy." I find this very precious.

Fine Dining... Summer Style

2009-06-29T20:25:00.000-04:00

My Summer View

2009-06-29T20:13:00.002-04:00

My favorite thing about this summer is watching my children play together in the water and the sun. They have been having so much fun!

"Never, Ever, Ever Say You're Tired..."

2009-06-25T11:17:00.002-04:00

The summer Kirsten was turning four we spent a day at Busch Gardens with her friend Kalee and Kalee's mom. On the way home the girls were wiped. I've heard legends of childen that fall asleep in cars when they are tired. Can you imagine? ... I find it hard to believe. Anyway, as we tried to get our sleepy girls to quit bickering, we mentioned how sleepy they looked. That's when Kirsten turned to Kalee and told her (with complete seriousness) "Never, ever, ever say you're tired,".

She has taught her brothers well. Since the cribs have come down the naps are few and far between. Last week after Danny angrily yelled, "NO night night! No nap! No prayers!" I stuck them in their high chairs.

...I'll take a nap however I can get it!