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!