Goodbye Cooper

With tears in our eyes, we had to say goodbye to Cooper today. He was such a good companion. He had some crazy habits (and loved to steal crayons) but was my loyal buddy for 13 of his 16 years. I’ll never forget his sweet face. 😥

Up the nose

Today we learned the lesson titled, “This is why you don’t put a jellybean up your nose.” First time in almost 11 years of parenting. I think I’ll call that a win.

Celebrating Shecklet #2

We had to cancel the family birthday party for Shecklet #2 last weekend due to #4 being ill. (Shecklet #2 was still able to celebrate with his friends at Bowlero though, and he had a great time.) Instead, we were able to get together with all of Jake’s side of the family (except for Bri, who didn’t come to MN with Jason this time.) #2 wanted to go to a hibachi restaurant, so that’s what we did. It was great being together!


The original seven 🙂

Old school video games

Shecklet #2 got a Raspberry Pie computer for his birthday and has been playing old school video games on it. It’s a blast from the past for me to watch the kids play some of them. Today, #2 helped Shecklet #4 play. Melt my heart!

Purge and re-org

A spring cleaning bug bit me today (late in the afternoon) and I completely emptied the girls’ closets. We pulled out things they had outgrown and passed them down accordingly. The things that no longer fit Shecklet #4 are bagged and ready to be given to a younger little girl. The reorganization of their closets gives me a sense of peace. I know that sounds strange, but it’s true. (Not sure how long that peace will last, but I have it for at least the night.)

The bins on the shelf are full of sentimental items. I go through them every so often and am trying to get past the “mental” part of the sentimentality. Truth is though, it’s hard. Everything has a memory. Jake helped me with a few items tonight and I’m really grateful for his input.

Next up – the boys’ closet 😬

Shecklet #3 turns 9!

Scrolling through pictures brings back so many memories of this guy.  He is full of life, laughs, tricks, creativity & determination.  This past year we have seen him grow in so many ways, both academically and physically.  (Every time I turn around, I notice that his pants are above his ankles!)  As a 3rd grader, he tried basketball for the first time and loved it – wants to play again next year.  He enjoys time with his friends (at school and in the neighborhood) and is always up for working on a project or craft.  (Pinterest is one of his favorite places to find new ideas to try.)

Happy birthday Shecklet #3!  We love you so very, very much!

Here’s a few pictures from our family celebration with the new 9 year old tonight. 

Dentist four 4

I was able to get all of the kids in for dental cleanings today. Jake took the day off (for Shecklet #3’a birthday,) so he came with us as well. Four sets of teeth, four great reports! And #4 did awesome during her first check-up! She let Dr. Sharp check her teeth and the hygienist was able to do a complete cleaning.

Time with Michelle

Shecklet #2 spent the day with his godmother and her family today. For Xmas, Michelle gave him a coupon to spend the day doing Pinterest projects. In addition to the projects, they took the train to the MOA, went to the Children’s Museum and ate at A&W. Lots of awesome memories were made!