Winter Fun

With just two days left until Christmas and little Christmas Spirit in the air, we decided to get outside and sled, even with only 2 inches of melting snow on the ground. So, we drove an hour, out to the middle of nowhere, to Echo Valley - a place famous for it's 60 mph tobaggon run.

We met our dear friends, the Harrisons, there. Jacob and Andy have been friends since birth and it's clear that they are two peas in a pod. And their first request, was not the tobaggon run, but snow tubing. We all grabbed a tube and hooked 9 tubes up. The hill was so steep and I was just a little nervous with Jeb in his own little tube in the back. If something happened, it was on my head. Tracy and I searched for the closest place without any age or height restrictions. But, off we went! My heart was in my throat with fear and I looked yonder to make sure that Jeb wasn't crying. No need to fear, as he had a smile on his face and exclaimed, "that was awesome" in his little voice upon stopping. And it really was.

After a few rides down the tubing hill, it was time to take on the tobaggon run. Aiden and Jeb went with Tom and I thought I'd have it easy with Jacob. This was not the case. Seems he and Andy decided they were not going down. So, I thought it through and used the best parenting technique to get him down - empty threats. It worked. And I'll admit that once I got on and looked down the hill, I wanted to get off and head for the lodge. But we went anyway. And, to make a long story short, the boys continued for the next 2 hours.

On a side note, the local news team was there taping for the news that night. The kids were so excited. We called Grandma and Papa and asked them to tape it. It was a bit dissapointing to see that it was the camera man taking the camera down the run that made it on air. We were left on the cutting room floor. I said sorry to the boys, but Aiden seemed really happy. And we found out why when he opened his mouth - "Wow, that was me going down the run - did you see my boot? I made it on TV!!" No one had the heart to tell him it was the camera man's boot. So begins Aiden's rise to fame...

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Sinterklaas

I'm not sure when or why I started this little tradition of ours, but for some reason it stuck. Each year the kids put out their wooden shoes on Christmas Eve and Santa leaves candy in them. It's all very fun and exciting, but it is always overshadowed by the stockings and presents. This year, since we are in the states, I thought I'd bring the real Sinterklaas tradition home.

Thanks to our recent trip to the Nederlands, we are all equipped with wooden shoes. All, that is, except for mom, but does she really count anyway? Anyway, the boys started asking about it since many people here celebrate Saint Nick. The short version of the story is that in a lot of Europeon countries, they celebrate St. Nick (or in Dutch: Sinterklaas) on the 5th of December and it is actually Christkind (or the Christ Child) who brings the gifts on Christmas. Obviously, we would have a bit of explaining to do if we suddenly decided to ditch Santa, so we are doing our own little version.

There are three reasons for the celebration: 1) To bring back a little Europeon tradition, 2) to have the chance to wake up to a little Christmas in our own house since Christmas will be spent away, and 3) a little reminder to any misbehaved children that Santa is really watching. And I took #3 very seriously. Aiden had already been warned that he was on the naughty list. I was hoping that when he woke up in the morning to find only one shoe filled, he'd change his ways. I admit, when I saw the empty shoe I was worried that he would be so upset. Nope. He looked at me and said, "This is all that I really wanted anyway." You've got to be kidding. We then read the note, written in all Dutch (thank you internet!) that told Aiden if he was good, Sinterklaas would make sure that Santa delivered the rest on Christmas and he was an angel the rest of the day.

It was nice to have a little Europe in our home, I miss the simplicity of Christmas across the pond. And as for Aiden, well, I think this attempt at making him better has lasted only a day. Hmm...his track record isn't so good. First the tooth fairy told him Santa was watching - that worked for a day, then the elf - that worked for a couple days, and now Sinterklaas. Next year, I think we'll send him to our friends in Switzerland to see the Swiss Santa and his friend Schmutzli. He's the one in black below - he takes care of kids on the naughty list. You should have seen Aiden's face when I showed him this picture...better be good next year Aiden!

The Christmas Bell

We had our one and only Christmas program for the year last night. A bit different since we weren't there to see Jacob, who was feeling a bit out of place sitting in the audience, instead of basking in the limelight. No, this time it was Jeb and Aiden.

Both the boys attend Little Lambs, a preschool program at our church, on Tuesday mornings. I had been hearing a little singing here and there throughout the past month, so we were all excited to watch. I sat the boys down and gave a two rules. Jeb: no pulling your shirt up to show everyone your physical therapy tape (which he loves doing), and Aiden: do no pick your nose.

They all made it up on stage with Jeb smack dab in the middle, front row. Aiden was a few kids down. Everyone sat down and then Jeb stood up, just to make sure Aiden was still there - something he did for the next hour. The singing started and Jeb's sweater, well you guessed it, up it went. Just for two seconds, but I was kicking myself for not taking his tape off (it's a big X from his hipbones to his ribs). It didn't stop there, he eventually got bored with singing and started making faces to try to be funny. Can't imagine where he learned that at.

Aiden surprised us all. He came in dressed as a present. Hmm, how curious. And then he stood up with his friend, Ally and went to the microphone. I nearly fell over as he started to sing a duet. My shy boy has an alter ego! And the finger did go up to the nose, but just to itch, not to pick. It was a really fun night. You never know what surprise you'll get.

The Elf on the Shelf Who Changed Our Christmas

I'm not going to lie, it's been a rough week. With last week being an exciting Thanksgiving week back in Michigan, the kids are just plain tired. And when they are tired, watch out. Actually when I am tired, watch out. It's not a good match-up.

I'll give a quick example - last night, I asked Aiden to take a shower. He looked at me and said, "No, I want to take a bath." It was late and we needed to be quick, so I pressed on. This time the answer was a screaming 'no' followed by flopping on the floor. It wasn't a pretty scene.

I was at the end of my rope with telling the kids that Santa was watching. It just wasn't working. I did get a bit of luck last night when the tooth fairy visited Jacob. She left a note with Aiden saying that she had seen Santa and heard that Aiden was almost on the naughty list. Upon seeing the note, Aiden handed it to me and walked away. A few hours later he asked how the Tooth Fairy knew Santa. (btw, google it - there is a story!)

I knew I had to do something. And the answer came through a phone call with a friend who told me all about this 'Elf on a Shelf' thing. Apparently I have been living under a rock, cause all the moms at school knew about it too. Anyway, I rushed out and got it.

The boys discovered it at dinner and were suddenly looking very angelic. We read the story and named him - get ready for it - Tim. After Tiny Tim. I did ask if he could be a girl and everyone disagreed with me. Oh well.

So, we have Tim and he is making a huge difference! I asked Aiden to take a shower tonight and he said 'No'. And then he looked over and saw Tim and immediately said yes, followed by an 'I'm sorry mummy'. Yes, I have found the solution! May the next 21 days be filled with peace, thanks to Tim...the elf on the shelf!

Thanksgiving

It's been 4 years since we celebrated a proper Thanksgiving in America, so this was a very exciting, and educational, time of the year!

The kids only know Thanksgiving as a time to make paper turkeys, hear a very watered down version of the story (can't tell the whole truth to my British friends!), and eat chicken. Yes, chicken! Turkeys are for Christmas in England! Anyway, this was my chance to tell the whole story. But, I didn't have to...school had it all under control!

The week before Thanksgiving, the boys indulged in a Thanksgiving feast at school. Aiden got to go in early for lunch and I heard all about the turkey and fixings when they got home. The best part was that Jacob, as a second grader, got to dress up as a Pilgrim - Captain Myles Standish to be exact! They studied the Mayflower the whole week and, on the day after the feast, I boarded the Mayflower to hear all about it. It was very cute! Check out the video below.

We kept the tradition of making turkeys and saying what we were thankful for. Jacob: his cousins (he also wrote food, cause without it we'd die!). Aiden: Georgie (his stuffed monkey). Jeb: blankie. Pretty simple stuff. Was kind of wishing to see 'mommy' on one of those thankful feathers, but I'm going say that that was a given...hopefully.

The actual day was spent at the Blauwkamps. I don't think I've ever seen my mom so happy to have us all around the table once again. I'd have to agree. I've got a lot of things to be thankful for. My thoughts always tend to go back to 2008, when we brought Jeb home from the hospital on Thanksgiving. We were so thankful to have him healthy again. Things have changed, but health is still something I'm thankful for, along with all the crazy stuff that having three boys brings! Yep, I wouldn't trade it for anything.

p.s. It's "I have fiery red hair and a temper to match."

A Little One on One

And I'm not talking basketball here. I'm talking one child, one parent. This, however, doesn't happen too much and we have suddenly realized it.

Lately, in the midst of running around, bringing one boy here or another boy there, we've lost the basic communication skills that lie outside of "Did you do your homework?" or "Have you made your bed?" Jeb seems to get the most one on one time, but to be honest, most times he's being carried around in the same fashion as my purse. We just need to get the errands before school pick-up, so off we go! Sounds fun for a 3 year old doesn't it?

So, we drew a line in the sand and established "Breakfast Saturdays" for the older boys. And, Jeb has experienced his first library storytime with mommy. Sadly, Jacob was about 3 months old for his first storytime. Sorry Jebbers...I'm trying!

Anyway, last week was Aiden's turn to go out to breakfast and he chose mommy. I didn't realize how exciting this would be for him until I heard knocking on my bathroom wall (from his bed) at 6:45 in the morning! I went in his room to find him fully dressed and ready to go. Ok, this is going to be an early breakfast! Off we went 15 minutes later and we slid into our booth by 7:10. I ordered myself a coffee and Aiden a chocolate milk - every kids favorite. Except Aiden looked at me and said, "mommy, I don't like chocolate milk, remember?" Oops, I guess the one on one time is good for me too.

And the following day, I took Jacob to the park. We haven't done it in ages. He was trying to race himself on the monkey bars and I was supposed to be timing him. I looked down at my watch and then up at him and everything seemed to stand still. The fall colors were behind him as he moved along the bars smiling. And then I realized he wasn't so little anymore and I'm just not sure where that time has gone to. Sounds cliche, doesn't it? Not to worry, my sappy moment was soon brought to an end when he was yelling at me, clearly annoyed that I wasn't timing him.

Here's to one on one time. Bring on the waffles, story books, and monkey bars - it's all we need to make some great memories.

Halloween!

It's been about three years since we have really celebrated Halloween, so we tried to really do it up this year! First, came the explanation of what trick or treating was. Aiden, as always, had an abundance of questions leading to the ultimate question of 'why do you trick or treat?' And the final answer of, 'to get candy.' His eyes nearly popped out of his head when he realized the simplicity of trick or treating - free candy if you ask.

The festivities began the Friday before with a Halloween Parade at school. The weather was nice, so the kids were allowed to walk around the neighborhood. Who should lead the parade, but the child who has never trick or treated before - Aiden (aka Darth Vader). He was all smiles. Jacob was pretty pumped about it too. It was a great sight to see and I got the warm fuzzies of being back home to celebrate this event.

Saturday was designated the day to carve the pumpkins, but before diving into that project, we did a trial run of trick or treating. Downtown Elmhurst was opening up the businesses for trick or treating and I think the whole town came down. It was a bit crazy. The boys went from store to store collecting their loot and at one point I couldn't get in with them, so I waited outside. Big mistake. Suddenly, a 7 year old vampire was at my side with a member of the Lightning McQueen pit crew. Through tightly gripped plastic teeth, Jacob looked at me and scolded me - "You must hold Jeb's hand!" Could it be that I just got yelled at by a 7 year old? No, I must have heard wrong. On to the next store. This time the little vampire took both Tom and I aside and gave a little lecture of holding Jeb's hand at all times. Yes, just when you think you've got it all figured out as a parent, your kid tells you you're doing it all wrong.

We made it home without losing McQueen (phew!) and got out the pumpkins. No one wanted to use the templates, so Tom and I listened intently to our junior pumpkin designers and carved to our hearts content. Jacob insisted on doing his own and, thanks to the kiddie knife from Pampered Chef, we didn't lose any fingers.

Sunday was the designated day to trick or treat by the city of Elmhurst. And it all started at 3:30. A scary vampire, Darth Vader, and a Lightning McQueen Pit Crew memberall took off with daddy to join the neighborhood entourage of dads and kids begging for candy. The kids came back loaded down with goodies and very excited! We had dinner with some friends and took off soon after finding Jeb trying to take a nap on the stairs. The day had taken it's toll, but it was so exciting.

The candy count? 110 peices on average per boy. We all know 25% goes to mom and dad...or is it 50%? Happy Halloween!!

Halloween Parade

Ready for candy in their cool costumes

Off to trick or treat

It's time to go home when you find your kid napping on the stairs

The loot

Saturday at Shedds

This past Saturday we took some time off from watching college football to go enjoy some family time together. Ok, Michigan had a by week, but even so, we thought it would be fun to get away and see some fish at the aquarium. We were meeting some friends from Michigan there, so the incentive was even greater to get there and enjoy.


We lucked out with no traffic despite the rain, so we were in the city within 25 minutes. Tom dropped us off so we could get the tickets while he parked the car. We had debated on bringing the stoller since we don't really need it anymore, but it did offer the chance to go into the side entrance, which is never busy. But, hey, who is going to be at Shedd's on a rainy Saturday? As I turned the corner in the pouring rain, the answer became clear - EVERYONE was at Shedd's today!


Armed with no umbrella, three hyper boys, and no raincoat for myself, I turned to Jeb and told him to turn on those brown eyes and find us some shelter! It only took a few minutes and soon we were sharing umbrellas with two kind ladies from Michigan. And, after 1 hour, we were in the doors. Wait, there was another line to purchase tickets. Why didn't I take that stroller?!?! Forty five minutes (and one very angry Tom) later, we were looking at the fish and with our friends (who did get in the side entrance! GRR!!)


The day only went up from there and we had a great time catching up with old friends and seeing all the cool fish. But, we knew it was time to go when we saw four boys (clearly not ours!) running around and waving the paddles of the show canoe and when we turned to see Jeb pulling down his pants and yelling, "I need to go to the toilet!" After a great ten yard tackle by Tom, we had all situations under control.


We walked out to clear skies, a beautiful skyline, and, well, no line.

4 Day House Arrest

I must admit, I don't know that I had ever really heard of "house arrest" until Paris Hilton and Lindsay Lohan appeared on the scene, but now I'm feeling it first hand. Let me just be clear that I don't live in a mansion like my afore mentioned friends. And I'm not sitting around with butlers and maids to entertain me while I am stuck here. No, I have it much worse - I am in the midst of POTTY TRAINING!

This is my last go-round at this and my biggest challenge yet. You would think that I know all the tricks to get this done, but I've got a stubborn one on my hands. We tried this a few weeks ago, but the stickers didn't do it, chocolate didn't do it and even the famed 'potty party' didn't do it (hey, I was grasping at straws). So, I thought about it and realized that since Jeb has been lugged back and forth chasing after his brother's activities his entire life, that just maybe Jeb's ulimate reward would be staying at home. I was right.

We began on Tuesday. Loaded with drink boxes, m&ms, stickers and no plans. Jeb got out of bed to find no diapers (aka nappies). He cried. He threw himself on the floor. The neighbors heard the three year old cries of "I need my nappy on!!" I ultimately paid Jacob 50 cents to talk Jeb into wearing underpants. His first trip to the bathroom produced the right results and I gave him an m&m. His response - "I don't want this, I'm giving it to Jacob." I was worried. We finally found the best reward was another drink box. We were in the bathroom a lot. We had 4 accidents that day due to school pick ups and making meals. Obviously, I need to be around him at all times.

Wednesday. Things are getting better, but the house is falling apart while I sit and do puzzles, play cars and read books. Jeb has never had this much attention and is gladly visiting the potty in order for mommy to continue playing. I found him in the corner while I was making lunch - opps. Two accidents today.

Thursday. Got some laundry done today, but I am getting restless! The cupboards are empty due to no grocery shop this week and the wine bottle is getting close to empty! Potty training has to end soon. I think it will - no accidents today. However, I have noticed a couple of things today. The first is that Jeb is staying dry during his nap. This is because he is calling me every 10 minutes to go potty. Not sure if he needs it or if he is manipulating me. I am guessing it's the latter of the two. The second thing I noticed is Jeb's request for me to hold his "willy." That sounds really bad when I write it doesn't it? I tried to correct this yesterday and had him hold "it." Big mistake. The aim was not to the bowl - it was the wall, then the floor, then the back of the toilet. And ultimately his hands and mine as I tried to stop the mess! We'll work on that later I guess.

So, my house arrest is almost over. I did almost go crazy, but I think it was worth it in the end. I am finally done with diapers after 6 3/4 years! Maybe I shouldn't have said that. Fingers crossed I'm right!

When the Relatives Came

It's been a big secret for the past month - the second grade classes at Jefferson Elementary were reading the book "When the Relatives Came." Doesn't sound like a very fun secret does it? Well, it is when you team it up with really having the relatives come!

I secretly invited both sets of grandparents and even got Daddy to clear his schedule. Everyone arrived at our house slightly before the big event (although Grandpa Koops wasn't able to make it, maybe next time!). We walked down to the school's front lawn and spread out our blanket, complete with cider and donuts.

While we were doing that, Jacob's teacher was reading the book (which, I admit have no idea what it is about...I guess the title is a big clue). Then Miss Lancaster announced to the class that they were going to plant some apple seeds on the front lawn. Jacob was the first out. Totally surprised with a hug for everyone. Except, now that I think about it, I didn't get one! Oh well, I was too busy crying! It was a bit emotional!

We had a nice time picnicking and having a nice chat. What a nice excuse to have the relative come!

Happy Birthday Jeb!

Last week we celebrated Jeb's third birthday. Yes, for me it was all the usual feelings - unbelief that my baby is this old, happy to reach this milestone, etc. Except this year I had the feeling of hope. Hope that Jeb is just going through a stubborn stage, hope that we were getting out of the terrible twos, and hope that this wasn't the "trying threes." On September 25 I realized all hope was lost! Oh well, so what if Jeb's stubbornness keeps building, at least he's still cute right?!


In spite of it all, we had a great celebration - smaller than in years past, but Jeb and I are actively seeking a new BBF for him! But, in keeping with tradition, Jeb had requested a Lightning McQueen cake. So, he got it for the second year in a row. This time made not by me, but the local bakery. It was seriously the worst cake I've ever tasted - even Jeb wouldn't eat it - but it looked really good. So, that is all that matters.


Jeb's one request for his birthday was an orange car. Easy request, but hard to purchase when the child is always with me! Let's just say that Jeb saw all his presents being bought, yet still acted surprised when he opened them. This may be the last year of that happening.


On Saturday we had a family day and Jeb got the choose where to go. The zoo of course! Brookfield Zoo is an easy 20 minute drive for us and we had a great time. Jeb loved petting the sting rays and was fascinated by the penguins as they dove down to see us. I can still hear the laughter - priceless.

So, here is to the next year and whatever it may bring. My wish as he blew out the candle was for good health, less dirty looks, and no more nappies!!!!! (I don't see the last two happening anytime soon). Happy Birthday Baby!

Mayberry RFD

Some days I really do believe that we moved to Mayberry. The friendliness of Elmhurst is unbelievable! People have been so welcoming - our calendar is getting full already! But, this past Saturday really made me believe that Elmhurst is the nicest place on earth!

After numerous people telling us that we needed to take the kids to Riley's pub for a Saturday lunch and to watch the game, we did. Only I didn't really think it through. Michigan was playing Notre Dame. Elmhurst is a HUGE Irish Catholic community and Rileys sign has a shamrock. We walked in with our Michigan stuff on like lambs being led to the slaughter!

After a few harassing, but friendly remarks and a completely embarrassing 100 yard touchdown by ND, we began to bury our heads. But, alas, Michigan came back and we whooped it up, much to the rest of the bars dismay. The game ended and at least 3/4 of the bar came over and said "great game!" Had we been anywhere else I think our tires would have been punctured. Welcome to Mayberry!

Back to School

Last week we started our new daily ritual of school. A bit different this time, as I tried to navigate through multiple stores trying to fulfill the school supply list. There was also the nervous feeling in my tummy as I wondered what American boys wore to school. (we did ok)

So we stepped out the front door at 8:05, taking a moment to snap some school photos. The boys are excited to do it now...we'll see when the look of dread an annoyance shows up on their pics in a few years.

The walk to school is a breeze and Jacob lined up right in between two nice boys. I felt really good as I watched him walk into the school. Aiden is in P.M. Kindergarten class, so he was going in a bit later since it was only a half day for the school. So, we grabbed some donuts at the PTA breakfast and I signed up for as much as possible.

Two hours later I was back dropping off Aiden, who was happy to go. He was fine walking in as if he had done it a dozen times before.

So it begins. The monotony of the school run, but the blessed time to sit and chat with other moms. We are all ready for a schedule, even poor Jeb who is constantly asking "who's my teacher?" Sorry buddy, looks like it may just be me this year. Let's hope we can make it through!

Aiden - Class of 2023

Jefferson School - Home of the Tigers

Jacob and Mrs. Lancaster (who is new too)

I Want to Ride My Bicycle!

Last Spring, we took the training wheels off from Aiden's bike. He was a bit apprehensive to bike on his own, but he did it and was quite proud of himself. That is, until he rode into a blackberry bush. Clearly it was all Daddy's fault and he wasn't going near the bike again.

Flashforward to August in the states. Aiden is beginning to notice all the kids in Elmhurst ride their bikes. Tom and I are starting to notice how ridiculous Aiden looks on his training wheels. Aiden could have cared less. So, leaving all the good parenting tips behind, we forced him to try biking without his training wheels.

The first night we showed the new neighbors just how short our patience was. My blood pressure shot through the roof, but knowing that everyone was watching to see what the "new neighbors" were like, I pasted on my best smile and walked away. Tom took over thinking he'd do better, but it all ended the same. Aiden is stubborn and so were we. We'd try again tomorrow.

Long story short, Aiden refused, but was forced into it and guess what? On the third try, he got it and has been biking ever since. It's been a week and he is now starting and stopping on his own, biking to town for ice cream, and making me run faster on my daily run in order to keep up with him.

Another milestone checked off the list. Wow, seems like there aren't many more left!

Home...finally

I've taken quite a break from the blog this summer and it's not due to summer fun or summer boredom. It's simply the stress of moving. And we seem to be done. Finally.

From May 29 to July 28 we slept in 7 different beds within 3 different countries. I doubt I will ever be able to say that again and, believe me, I am glad. On July 30 we slipped into our 8th bed - our own, in our own home. To say it was a good nights rest would be a lie, we woke up sore and feeling old due to painting, moving boxes and cleaning.

For the next week Tom and I made our home in Elmhurst. I painted 3 rooms, including trim and windows (btw, Benjamin Moore Aura paint all the way!). Tom did a bit of painting, but due to his pure hatred of the task, he opted for unpacking the garage and organization of the rest of the house.

We took a much needed break between the sea shipment and storage shipment to go to Ikea. It seemed like a really good idea until about 2 hours into it, then it all went blurry. We finally ended it after 3 1/2 hours and Tom asked me for the list of product numbers to get all the boxes. My hands were empty, as was my bag. I lost the list! Only you Ikea shoppers would know what I am talking about - this is a massive mistake and I searched the store until I found it laying on the towels, which I decided not to buy. After a stern look from Tom, we were on our way. I was so excited for the playroom rug that I laid it out that night. Got into bed and thought, "why did I buy a WHITE rug for the playroom?" And thus, another trip was scheduled to visit Ikea.

I won't say much about putting the items together that were purchased at Ikea. But, it is worth noting that we won't be doing much of it again thanks to a DIY from Target. After spending 4 hours putting Aiden's dresser together, Tom went to put the finishing touches on it and it broke. I was in the kitchen and I really thought I'd see the whole thing being chucked down the stairs. Tom was livid and packed it all up (not in the box!) and took it back. And they took it. Good thing, I was scared for that service rep at Target!

On to the next day, which brought our storage items that hadn't been seen in 3 years. I wish I would have donated before packing them up long ago. We had a truck full for Goodwill. But, it was nice to see some of the stuff again.

The next two days were spent tidying and organizing, but it just didn't feel like home without the boys running about. We were so thankful for both sets of grandparents watching them so we could get things done, but I was ready to have them back after 10 days apart!

In they came on Thursday as I turned and said goodbye to my clean house, never to be seen that way again. Each boy has their own room and I think we are all happy about that. Doesn't seem to make a difference in the morning wake-up, but at least they each have their own space.

So, here we are. Officially Americans living in America. It's a lot to take in, but we are getting there. Come on over, there is plenty of room, lots to do, and always a cuppa waiting (can't give the tea up just yet!).

In case you need us...
650 S. Stratford Ave.
Elmhurst, IL 60126
USA

And we are serious, please invite yourself over!

Aiden outside our house...

Me, painting Jacob's room. Back breaking work!

A quarter the way through Jeb's room - it was lavendar and purple before

Tom lending a hand to put in new lights...and no one ended up in the hospital!

Jeb in his new room and new bed. Look familiar?

Stole the idea from Jacob's first room...I'm so creative under pressure!

Aiden in his new room. Proud owner of the bunks.

Jacob - new bed too!

The best part was the new desk. So nice to just be yourself in your own room!

Lately

What have we been up to lately? Well, we've been hot! Really hot! Our bodies are not used to the heat and especially the humidity of the midwest! Jacob recently told me that he couldn't take the heat, followed by "bring on winter." Spoken like a true Brit!

Let's back up six weeks...We landed in Michigan a bit overwhelmed to be home. We were greeted by both sides of the family at the airport, which was so nice! But, whenever someone asked if it was good to be home, I felt the tears coming.

It's different here. For some reason, I've forgotten how big things are and how busy it is! Even the American accent has taken me off guard. Listening to the boys play with their cousins, it struck me how different the accent really is. And the boys seem to have lost theirs, although many have commented on Aiden's, which I don't hear at all (One little boy asked me if Aiden was Australian).

Aiden has asked the best questions about America:
1. Why are there so many American flags in America?
2. Why are there so many farms in America and no sheep?
3. What is that picture on the side of the road? (Answer: A billboard)
4. Do they sell flowers at that place that looks like a church playground without a church? (That was a cemetary and the answer was no!)

On to the cottage. After sending the kids off to various family members for a week so that we could house hunt, we went back up to Michigan for a week at my parent's cottage. It was great. The kids swam, tubed and even skied on the EZ ski. Even Jeb did it! You should have seen people look up when we pasted with our two year old waving with his royal wave. The rest of the week was spent going to the swamp to catch frogs and ended with a Fourth of July celebration.

Back to Chicago. Now we are back in Oakbrook at our little apartment, awaiting our closing on the house. It hasn't been pretty. While the pool has been a great distraction, even that is getting old. Besides the odd doctors appointment here and there, we've just been getting on each others nerves. It's time for a house with a yard and neighbors, who hopefully have kids!

It's all feeling real and that is ok. It's hard to move on and I think about England almost every day. But, good things await us in Elmhurst. I should enjoy my last care free moments of not owning a house. Now to focus on my biggest issue just may be: what do I rename this blog?! The name just doesn't apply anymore...

All ready for the Fourth of July Boat Parade!

Jeb "skiing"

Jump!

Back together with Andy and Matt - American best friends

Last Photos and Last Post of England. (Sniff, sniff)

Today marks one full month of being in the states and away from England. Funny, it's been rainy and humid here, while sunny and beautiful in the UK. Ironic! Anyway, I forgot to post some pics of the boys going away party with their classes. We rented a bouncy castle and ate ice lollies (popsicles). It was great!

But before that, here is a slideshow of our family photoshoot at Cliveden in May. Liezl Croft (www.liezlcroft.com) spent the day with us capturing the boys at their best and worst moments! I'm so glad we did it and that the background is one of our favorite places in England!

Aiden's class party

Jacob's class party. Somehow the 7 year olds don't listen like the 5 year olds. They just wouldn't sit!!

Jeb's last Tumble Tots class - with his best mate Health.



And our last shots in Beaconsfield...we'll miss you!

10 years on...

Wednesday was our first full day for me and the boys to be here in Chicago alone. It also happened to be my birthday and our 10th anniversary. It also happened to be 90 degrees with 90% humidity. Oh, and the boys were tired - code for "let's fight so much that mom goes nuts." You can see where this is going.

Ok, so we made it through the morning, just barely. We all took some quiet time before Tom came home early for, not what you think, but instead for Jeb's first appointment with the CF team at Children's Memorial. The appointment went well (check out his blog in the next few days), but it was 3 hours long. We were exhausted, but all the boys were troopers.

After it was time to celebrate the big 10 year marriage marker! Oh, but we don't have a babysitter! So, we decided to treat the boys to pizza. Except we don't know where a pizza place is, so we rely on the satnav. We ended up in a fancy restaurant that didn't have pizza on the menu. But, they made it for us anyway. Bless them! I always imagined Tom and I at a fancy restaurant on our 10th, but not in this scenario.

But, you know what? Isn't that what we should do to celebrate our 10 years together? It's where we are in our lives and in hindsight, I'm glad that the day went the way it did. It is pretty unforgettable and I'm thankful for every piece of pizza stuffed into Aiden's already full mouth, each doctor appointment that helps Jeb, each antagonizing act provoked by Jacob and each time the satnav brings us to a dead end road. This is our life. I'm not sure that I would have imagined it this way when I stood in front of Tom 10 years ago. But, I wouldn't want it any other way...

Rhodes, Greece!!

Our final trip while we were still classified as ex-pats was to Rhodes, Greece. Rhodes is the farthest island south and is actually closer to Turkey than to mainland Greece. It was first established in 6th century B.C., so it's the oldest place that we've been to! Plus, it's the island that gets the most sun and boy did we need the sun!! The best way to remember the 12 days spent there is through pics, so here we go! Our villa, where we spent a significant amount of time in the pool. Aiden finally ditched the swimmies and was swimming beautifully by the end of the trip. Jeb, well he just kept jumping in over and over despite having the wear an ear band due to a burst ear drum prior to leaving England. And Jacob became the world's best Uno player in between swims.

The beach. We did every other day at the beach. It was hot and the turquoise waters were so soothing. We even did a sand castle competition, which mum and Aiden won. It took some training of the eyes to look straight forward at these topless beaches. And it's not what you think, most women sporting the bottoms-only look were not 20. Tom had always dreamed of rolling over to see a DD chest, but when it's on a 250 pound women, well, then you know that the day at the beach is done.

The Acropolis (Apollo's Temple). We chose the hottest day to do this! At the very top of the cliff in Lindos, lies an ancient Greek temple, which was quite large back in 6,000 BC when it was being used. Tom and I thought it was so interesting, while the boys, Aiden in particular, hated every single minute of it. Thank goodness for the donkeys that took us up to the top of the cliff and for the shops that distracted us on the way down.

These are the tiny shells that Aiden found one night while rock pooling. Too bad that one somehow got stuck up his nose the next morning. I am an expert on getting things out by now, so if you are a mom and you need to know - simply hold the side of the nose that is clear shut and put your mouth over the childs mouth and give a good blow. The shell shot to the other end of the room. Wonder what will be the next object, Aiden!

This was amazing. Two men on a moped with a donkey colt in between. Only in Greece.

Epta Piges, or the Seven Springs. Again, in the BC time frame, the Romans found these springs and figured out how to get the fresh water all over the island. We got to walk in ankle deep water through the Roman-built tunnel that was 1 Km long with the only daylight coming from the ends. It was a bit scary, but we all did it, including Jeb all on his own. Rumor has it that doing this will make you live longer. Fingers crossed on that one.

A bit of alone time for mum and Aiden. Went into town and then stopped by St. Paul's church. This is where Paul stopped on his journey towards Ephesus on one of his three missionary journeys. That one gave me goose bumps.

And finally, the glass bottom boat ride. 2 1/2 hours of pure pleasure! No life jackets for the older boys and bow riding at 30 mph! Did I mention the waves on the way back? I was certain we'd dock and I'd have lost one of them off the bow. But, being a mother of boys, I took a deep breath and watched them laugh it off. Out in the bay, the water was so blue and the views of Rhodes were spectacular! Aiden took the wheel by himself, which I couldn't quite believe and then Jeb shared the responsibility with the captain.

What a ride...and when I say ride, I'm not just talking about the boat. Greece was great. Ok, I will share my secret of kind of running the rental car into a stone wall and needing a police report. Have you ever been to a Grecian police station? We have. 5 times. They work slow and they smoke a lot. Try not to wreck your rental. BTW, the rental agency didn't even notice. Only in Greece. Laid back, lots of sun, and just what we needed!

Don't Cry Because It's Over...

...Smile Because It Happened.

It's been nearly 2 weeks since we left England and we've been trying to get over it in Greece, totally cut off from email and the blog. I decided to go old school on the morning that I woke up for the last time in Beaconsfield, so here is what I actually wrote on paper (yikes!) that morning.

How do you say goodbye when you are not ready to leave and are still so in love with where you are? Today at 11:00 am we will get into a taxi and leave Beaconsfield for good. I'm not ready and my heart is breaking into a million pieces.

2 3/4 years really isn't a long time, but for some reason, our roots seem to have sunk a little bit deeper here than I ever would have imagined. And it's not about what we have done or what we have seen. Don't get me wrong, we have gone on some amazing trips abroad and seen just how beautiful the UK is on the weekend. But, it's not about that. My heart is breaking over what we are leaving behind - our English family.

A family that just seem to form steadily through daily school runs, weekly playgroups, and a family that held us up when Jeb got so sick. They are people I'll never forget, simply because I can't. These people have taught me so much about love and loyalty. If I ever needed anything, I always knew I'd have a group of people to choose from who wouldn't thing twice about helping. And I would do the same for them. It's taught me so much.

Kids are resilient. But, I wonder about Jacob, who is leaving his best friend Fraser. We said goodbye to them yesterday. Sarah has 4 boys, with the three oldest being the same age as mine. Poor Jeb doesn't understand that he won't see Heath again and Jacob, the poor thing, does. It was heartbreaking for me to hug Sarah goodbye and try to thank her for being like a sister to me. It was even harder to hug her boys for the last time. We walked away crying and Jacob asked why we were moving if we loved it here so much. A good question, so simple, yet so complicated.

I've cried thousands of tears over the past 4 days. First at the boys going away party, then the last day of school where I was a blubbering mess! I hope to come back to visit. I know we'll stay in touch. How can I not, after all that we have been through here? Tom and I agree that these have been the best years of our lives. Never thought I'd say that considering they were also the worst when it came to Jeb's diagnosis. It says a lot about the people who surrounded us and loved us even though we were Yanks and even though they knew we'd leave them.

So, thank you England for your beauty, for the friends, for the lessons learned, and the memories made.

God Save the Queen... God Bless America.

Miss vs. Not Miss

Hmmm... what will I miss about jolly old England?
1. School runs, even with the constant tension of getting shoes on, lunches made, and out the door by 8:38; it was my social time.
2. Friday play group with expat moms
3. A cuppa with some natter
4. My kids friends - love you boys!!
5. Online grocery shopping and the grocery man bringing them in!
6. Curry and sticky toffee pudding
7. Ready meals on a Friday night
8. Day trips
9. Running into at least one person while running to town b/c Beaconsfield is so quaint that way
10. Watching Jeb run to one of his Aunties or Mark. :)
11. And so much more.

OK, there has to be something that I WON'T MISS!!
1. Rain!!! And the damp, cold, sunless days!
2. Small parking spaces
3. The VAN!!!
4. The hospital.

Glad that this is short, but I'm sure I'm forgetting. Don't get me wrong, there will be a list of things that I forgot I loved once I reach America. In fact, I can already taste the Chilpolte!!

An Empty House

I ran from the hotel to the house last night to check on how the movers did and didn't expect to feel what I felt. Empty. As empty as the house.

Now, keep in mind, this is not the house of my dreams. Maybe if I lived in 1976. But, avacodo toilets are just not for me. Funny enough, over the past 2 1/2 years I've found that I barely notice it anymore. And now here I am, in an empty house listening to Jeb's voice echo throughout the house.

I'm actually very sad to leave here. It's not about the house, but what this empty house now holds - our memories. Aiden sleeping in a big boy bed for the first time, Jacob going to school in his uniform, disco dancing while making meals in the kitchen, many teas with various friends, watching Jeb walk for the first time, and the list goes on and on. I find something with each room that I walk in.

If these walls could speak...they would have a tale to tell. But, the next people to live here will just never know. So, we'll take the memories with us.

Surprise!

Last weekend we got surprised and I really can't believe that our friends pulled it off! We went to our friends, the Martins, after getting picked up by the Clarks, only to be led out into the back garden to all of our British friends! Before I go into the story, let me tell you about how we almost found out.

I must admit that I was feeling a bit down when I spoke to Jane (Martin) a few weeks ago and asked if she wouldn't mind asking 'the girls' if they'd like to have one last dinner out. Little did I know that they were planning something bigger. Then, on Saturday, the boys went to play at a friends house and when I went to pick them up, their mum asked if I'd like a cuppa (that's tea for you yanks). When I said yes, she looked as if she really didn't want me in the house. That is because she was making rice salad for the party (which I told her sounded totally gross!). But, she told a great story and I didn't have a clue. Until I called Sarah (Clark) and told her that we'd walk to the Martins and not to pick us up. She said ok, but I got a text 10 minutes later saying Jane wasn't quite ready and to meet them at the pub. I kind of thought maybe there was a surprise, but pushed it to the back of my mind. And then we arrived...

The night was fantastic! We had such a mix of people - Welsch, Irish, American, Scottish and British. There was a lot of laughs. And then the music started and we moved to the drawing room. It was a disco! Tom even showed off his moves and it's still being talked about a week later! Thanks everyone, we had the BEST time! We love you all!!

The girls

Nicola teaching us how to do the Irish jig

Thanks Jane!