What is everyone up to these days???

mckayleesmom wrote: Since we are all around right now...lets catch up.


Lets see. Mckaylee just turned 7 and is doing great in first grade. She was on honor roll twice this year. We are very proud of her. She is very stubborn and opinionated and her and I are constantly butting heads. You would think that she would realize by now that I don't negotiate with terrorists...

Russell is doing good. He has finally come out of his shell a little bit and made some friends he actually plays with instead of just plays with their toys. He is obsessed with Star Wars and Batman and everything he says has a sound effect to it. He gives me daily tutorials on Jedi mind tricks and Batman moves. He starts kindy in the fall and I'm going to miss him during the day.


As for everything else..its going. We are waiting to hear about our new orders soon. We got a message to expect new orders within 90 days and that was a good 40 days ago. We have to be out of our house by June 30th because the people we rent from are Marines and they just got orders to come back. If Leithan doesn't have his orders by them I will go and stay with my mom in AZ for the Summer...I might just go for the summer either way..I miss family. Leithan is trying to go back infantry so if he gets his wish I will stay with my mom even longer. If he goes infantry he will deploy shortly after and I don't want to be stuck that first deployment in a new city with no support around. Since Russell starts school in the fall I will probably be going back to school probably finding a job...We will see.

What is everyone else up to???

mummy2girls replied: Jenna is 7 years old and in grade 1. We decided to mainstream her and she is at the top of her class in language arts and math. We are so amazed by her accomplishments!!!! Always bringing home 100 percent on her spelling tests.

Breanna will be 1 in 5 weeks!!!!! Which amazes me... she is almost taking her first steps. she will stand there alone unsupported but is afraid to take that step... but give her a toy walker and she is off running almost...LOL

Marcus had his V so no more babies for us:(

My2Beauties replied: Let's see Hanna is coming close to the end of her first year in school, she went through Kindy with flying colors. Her last report card was all A's and one B. She is very artsy fartsy lately lol, she is big time into crafts and coloring and making things. I was never into that stuff, guess we use different sides of our brains lol. She is still adjusting to Brian and I being apart, I think it still bothers her and she makes comments and has her days still, this has been very tough on her! I think she is finally starting to get used to the idea and appreciates that mommy and daddy do not argue anymore and that things will be ok between us as just friends. I'm not sure how long the process takes, it's been over 7 months now but I'm sure it will take quite some time for her to fully understand.

Aubrey OMG where do I begin. I swear they broke the mold when they made that child. Well she is all the way potty trained now, not peeing in the bed or anyhing at all, she did so well (took a while but we finally got her on board, stubborn little butt). She just turned 3 on May 1st and we had a Tinkerbell party for her. She follows Hanna around EVERYWHERE and dotes on her and copycats every single little thing Hanna does. In turn, Hanna does torture her sometimes but I'm sure it's out of love She is so vibrant and full of life and just LOVES to make people laugh, I swear she will be a comedian.

I am doing well. I am still seeing the same guy I was a couple of months ago, he's been awesome. I have such a fun time with him and we're getting along really well and getting closer and closer I have a lot of feelings for him. He's a breath of fresh air and he's so much fun to be around. It feels nice to love being around the person you're with again and to WANT to be around that person! I don't want the feeling to ever go away

Insanemomof3 replied: Well, lets see. Things are strange for me. I have had a lot of issues over the years, lots of stupid things in my life but that all seems to be behind me. My daughter Kayla is almost 15, have not talked to her in a very long time. Last time was 6 months ago when she wanted to come live with me. I said yes of course, then she changed her mind and stayed with her dad. Have not heard from her since. I wish that she wouldn't have called me from a restricted number.

My boys, Tristan is 8. Demetrius is almost 7. They are doing well as far as I know, I do know that my ex has a new "love" but I don't have much contact there either, LONG STORY.

Now, I am engaged to a wonderful man. He has 2 girls 17 and 11. I love them dearly. We are getting married this summer. I finally found my dream man. Didn't think it was possible.

There is my update, the short version anyway.

luvbug00 replied: So glad to hear everyone seems to be on the up and up.

same old for us. Mya is now 9 (ten in july). She is into sports and crafts recently. Totally boy crazy and has major biber fever..lol
She is almost taller then I am which isnt cool. Im not good with having to yell up to her. She still spends every other weekend with dad but that will likely change when she turns 11 and has a voice. (she hates going over there). Doing great in school which i'm so proud of. All in all she is still the same compassionate sweetie she has always been, just with a pinch of additude. lol!

Work for me is good. Still recovering from october. Planning a trip to south africa with Jon in December. We shall see. He and I have been officially dating for a month or so after this past year of us doing the off/on thing and things are 100% better. We have so much fun together. He hasnt meet mya yet and I'm good with that. He wants to but I'm waiting for the perfet time.
anyway that's it from our neck of the woods.

CantWait replied: Ummmm lets see....

Robbie is growing like a weed, He's just about taller than me, another quarter inch which he'll probably get by the end of the summer and he will officially be bigger than his mom, he'll be 15 in September. He's doing alright in school, but is really lazy and could be doing so much better, he's not living up to his potential. I think part of it is he's just having such a hard time here. He's not like all the other kids here and has had a lot of trouble meeting friends that he really clicks with here. He can't wait to go back to Canada. We were thinking of extending here for another year or two if possible, but with Robbie really not liking it, we'll be going back home in probably July of next year

Anthony is still a little terror, but he's gotten much better. The last few months I really see him changing. He's doing better in school, in what he learns at least, he still has attention issues though, ugh. Thank goodness his teacher this year was a God send. Anthony is reading so good now, it's amazing to listen to him read the books he brings home for homework. He's so excited to be a BIG brother He's got a countdown for the ultrasound in a two weeks (boy or girl ) and I notice how much nicer he's being towards kids that are younger than him and how gentle he treats them. He's going to be such a great big brother.

Looking forward to my BEST friend coming down in July for a two week visit with her family.

kit_kats_mom replied: Good thread!

Katherine is the teachers pet in First grade...I called that when she was 1. she's excelling in school. She won 2 second place ribbons for artwork at the state fair and she loves science and math. Her current career plans are to be an astronaut and a deep sea explorer. She is still a brownie scout and enjoys all of the activites that it offers. She was especially fond of the marine biology course we took at camp a few weeks ago. She's also really into karate. She will test for her yellow belt next week and I have no doubt she will obtain it. She practices all of the time and seems to really enjoy the dicipline and exercise that she gets. She's still her usual sweet, somewhat shy self.

Lauren is doing great in pre k and will start Kindy next year at Kat's school. She is reading pretty well although she doesn't seem to have the desire to do so as much as her sister. She is also taking karate and enjoys it most days. She will also be testing for her yellow belt next week and if she focuses and stops trying to fix her hair, be silly and flirting with the boys during the testing, she will do great. She's a little powerhouse! She's still my headstrong passionate love. Another mother at karate put it perfectly last week..."she is lucky she's cute because I can see that she's a handful".

Hubby is doing fine. Sorta hating work right now and keeping his eyes open for other opportunities right now, but otherwise he's staying busy with the homebrew kit I bought him for our anniversary...he's made a ton of beer lately, which the neighbors all appreciate.

Most of you know that I lost my job when I was tending to my mom before she died. I'm totally cool with that. I've been spending my SAHM days at the gym, cleaning, veggie & landscape gardening, sewing and trying to save money so I can continue to be a SAHM. I'm only really 'kid free' from 10-noon but Lauren is pretty self sufficient and stays out of my hair if I'm busy. We've met a few more neighbors with kids and so we can usually be found at someones house or entertaining most weekends. I'm planning the next mommies on the loose trip for June & I'm looking forward to spending some time with my girlfriends.

Rocky, the poodle, is now 2 (and 80 lbs) and apparently he is slow to mature. he's sweet as can be but my goodness that dog has some energy. The girls now know how to handle him and when they can't, they know to just get out of his way .He wouldn't ever hurt them on purpose, but he has knocked them over once or twice. I swear he would fight anyone to the death if they messed with any of us though. He's a wonderful guard dog and family member.

ETA-both girls also weigh exaclty the same...46 lbs. K is tiny for 7 and L is largish. They wear the same clothes.

Mama~Love replied: Hey everyone! Here's an update from me.

Logan is almost 17, driving, and a junior in high school. He's doing awesome with his grades, and is such a great kid!

Quentin will be 15 in a couple weeks, he's in 9th grade, and taller & bigger than Logan! He struggles with some classes, but does well. He's the family clown, so goofy & can always make us laugh!

Ethan is 10, and in 4th grade. He's a bookworm, always reading something. He's gotten into trouble for reading too much at the wrong times, and is reading at a 7th-8th grade level. He's a goofball too.

Hannah is 8, and homeschooled, and doing so well. She's a very advanced reader, and loves math & geography. She's also in a horse phase, and is loving everything to do with horses. She's a total tomboy, always wanting to get down & dirty, and is very tough.

Kayla is 6, and homeschooled as well. She's just learning how to read, and quite proud of herself. She's our emotional one, her feelings are hurt very easily. And she can throw quite the temper tantrums when she's mad. LOL.

Abby is 3, and into everything LOL. She has a very active imagination, always playing dress up or play kitchen, and LOVES "I Spy" books. She's very much a mama's girl, and loves to give me hugs, but not too many kisses.

As for me, I'm pregnant again, my EDD is Dec. 9th. Planning on another homebirth but with a different midwife since my other one moved. I'm also working fulltime, which I hate, as I miss supper & bedtime every night. But we need the money, so not many other options.

We have our small farm here with cows, chickens, pigs, horses, and rabbits. So, we stay pretty busy!

Thanks for starting this thread Brianne!

mckayleesmom replied: Hey Mollie..How are ya? Do you know what you are having yet?

boyohboyohboy replied: How nice it is to hear from some of the old gang! I was so surprised myself to see how long I have been a member here..time flys..

Caleb is 8 and finishing his last yr at the school that has given us so much trouble. He was given the ok to move to a new school for the next yr. He still gets into trouble almost daily, but I have learned to just let it go, it seems no matter what the kid does he cant get a break there, hence the need for a change. He still sees a councelor once a week and we are breaking thru some of the issues that are bothering him. He is a sensative boy and turns out its mostly been issues dealing with the move and my getting married and having the boys all in a few years..he has an adjustment disorder. I am glad that its something we can deal with and eventually let go. He is looking forward to summer and going to summer camp thru our church for the first time.

Jakob is growing leaps and bounds and will start preschool this school year. I am learning to let him venture out on his own after keeping him so close to me his whole life. He is almost allergy free. He still doesnt eat what I consider the right foods, but eats none the less, and is in the 95% for his stats. My little boy is certainly growing up!

Andrew, my baby, is almost 3. He is so different then the other two boys. I am sure he is going to surprise me all thru my life. I think growing up with two older brothers makes him grow up so fast. I see a lot of his dad in him.

Peter and I are doing great. I think this past week's tragedy has made us evaluate what is important and whats not so important and made a pack to remind each other of our love each day and not put things off till tomorrow. I enjoy our time together. We have made a lot of family time plans this summer and I am really looking forward to that.

I am working 4 days a month as a nurse and its hard to leave them still, but they enjoy "man" time when mommy isnt here. I have reminded myself that I am more then just a mommy, and also that I can still be a good nurse..I enjoy it secretly.

I hope more people drop and in add to this thread!

Boys r us replied: Well, we are all doing well here! Tanner is wrapping up his last few weeks of middle school. I can't wrap my mind around that!! My baby is going to high school!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! He's such a little scholar though..he's always excelled in school..but I didn't know if it would last..but it has! He's in all advanced classes and makes straight A's! I'm so proud of what a GOOD kid he is! He's popular, a jock and smart as a whip

Braedon is finishing up 2nd grade..which also seems pretty impossible! He does very well in school..but struggles a little more than Tanner. and by that I mean..he actually has to study, where as Tanner doesn't. But once he gets something, he's got it.

Both of the boys are into sports, but we have a few months off b/c neither of them enjoy baseball. SO I'm appreciative of the break!!

Alliebelle is 3 and while there was a time in her 3 yrs that I wondered what I had gotten myself into..she's finally rounding the corner and gets sweeter every day! She's very bossy(no clue where she gets that from..haha) and extremely head strong and independent! All girl..loves her nails being painted and her hair curled..always wants to wear party dresses..even to the post office!

Rick and I are doing great! He's still working for the Dept of Defense as a Network engineer and while I like to remember that all of us are replaceable..he seems more and more indispensable to them daily! They are always calling him to work on special projects and fix things that he has no training in b/c he always comes through and gets it done! I'm proud of him! I've gotten back into my old habits of exercising and it feels sooooooo good!!! I was an avid runner before I got pg with Braedon and then it was all down hill and I just let it go. In the last year, I decided the baby fat had to go since I was done having kids and I have worked my way back up to running and I do a kickboxing class 2x a week. I've finally gotten rid of the extra weight I've carried around since having Braedon and have gone from a size 12 to a 6 and I'm waaaay happy about that!!! It's amazing how good everything else in life can seem when you're content with yourself! We've just finished our basement..which we spent the last 7 months doing..so that has taken a lot of our time recently!

We have a new addition to our family, a boxer named Cutler. We got him when he was 8 weeks old and he's 8 months old now. He's been a real terror but he's coming around!!! Totally lovable but waaaay too much energy!

My little brother also just had a baby with his wife. So I'm a new Auntie!! Her name is Ella and she's a week and a half old now! she was a month early, so she's teeny tiny! I'm so in love with her! When her mommy goes back to work in August, I am going to be babysitting her for them ..so I am very excited about this as I'm going to be getting my baby fix without the sleepless nights!!!!!!

~Roo'sMama~ replied: Andrew will be 5 next month, and goes back and forth between driving me crazy with his attitudes and then amazing me with how sweet he can be. He went through a phase of watching Super Why and Word World every day and is now in love with practicing writing his letters and spelling words - he's been just amazing us with how quickly he learns, and figuring out on his own how words are spelled, and reading a lot of words too.

Allie turned three in February, and has been potty trained for a couple months now, FINALLY. Just during the day, but her pull-up has been dry for two nights in a row now. She wears underwear during the day and loves it. She loves anything pink, loves wearing dresses and anything pretty. She's definitely a girly girl. We bought her a bike a couple weeks ago but she hasn't gotten the pedaling thing down yet... it doesn't help we've had a lot of cold and rainy weather since we bought it so we haven't been able to work on it much. Andrew's excited for her to learn so that they can ride their bikes together.

We're all still living with my parents in the house I grew up in. We've been here a year and 9 months, and will be here until Dh finishes school and student teaching next May or June. I'm working part time and hate it... I will be more than happy when Dh is done with school and has a job so that I can go back to being a sahm.

mckayleesmom replied:
OMG...As I'm reading your post Russell is singing the Super Why song...... He sings that song all the time along with Party in the USA by Miley

Maddie&EthansMom replied: Hi y'all!

Life has been pretty amazing lately!

Madeleine will be TEN in a couple of weeks! This is so hard for me to believe. Although, we are having more fun together than ever. She is tall and beautiful and such a sweet sweet girl. She had a great first year in public school and made lots of new friends. She loves American Girl dolls, riding her bicycle, piano and swimming.

Ethan is growing up so rapidly. Especially these past few weeks. I don't know where my little boy went. He turned 6 in March and had a great year in Kinder. It took some adjusting in the beginning, but thankfully his teacher adores him and worked so hard trying to "figure him out." He's all boy and he LOVES his sister more than anything. He's still a little peanut---weighing in at 35 pounds.

Scotty has his own business and it's going well. We started it about a year ago and our lifestyle changed drastically. He went from working 6 days a week, 14 hours a day--to being around 75% of the time. He helps with the kids, helps around the house and is available to be home for special things. We absolutely LOVE it!!!

I've had a crazy busy year. I thought things would slow down once the kids were in school, but life just got busier. I try to limit what I do outside of the home, and choose the most important things. The kids and Scotty always come first. I'm involved in a prison ministry---which I love, but may have to put on hold for awhile. I volunteered quite a bit at the school this year and I spent a lot of time sewing and creating.

We have a new addition to our family. {It's not a dog!}

His name is David and he's 10 months old. We are in the process of legally adopting him, but he is already a part of our family and we are so in love!!! He's a sweet and happy baby. He sleeps so good and is a chunky monkey! The kids just love him to pieces. It's nice having a baby in the house again. I'm shocked at how quickly we adjusted. He adjusted quickly, too.

It's so good hearing from everyone. I keep up with several of you on facebook, but I agree it's just not the same as being here. I miss you all and love you so much.

Boys r us replied: Amy..I would love to hear the details of little David and how became blessed with having YOU for a mom!!! Of course, that is..if you are open to sharing!

mckayleesmom replied: Congtatulations Aimee...Can't wait to see pictures of our new PC baby.

Kirstenmumof3 replied: I have been off work since January 31. I had an injury to my shoulders and right now I'm on sick leave. I started physio therapy and a new medication for fibromyalgia. I should be back to work by the end of the month. Keep your fingers crossed. I'm reconciling with my family! I've been packing like crazy and can't wait to get out of this apartment. I should be all moved in my the middle of June and will hand over my keys to my apartment in June 30!

Emily (15) has been struggling with stomach issues and we are having her tested to see if she is allergic to milk and grain. She has missed so much school, but is still doing really well.

Spencer (13) has gone from a B-C student to a A-B student! I can't believe the difference from grade 6 to grade 7. He has a regular check-up in July at Sick Kids and then he will only have to go yearly! YEA!!!

Claudia (7) has been assessed at school and next year they will be providing her with a lap top to do all of her school work. She struggles with her fine motor skills. Her grades are up and down. Some days she does really well and other days not so well. She will also be seeing a paediatrician in a few weeks to be tested for ADD.

We also have some wonderful news on May 5 my brother and his wife had there second daughter. Her name is Marjaana and I just can't wait to see her. Planning a visit with my mom for sometime next month.

5littleladies replied: Hey everyone!

It's been a long time-I stop in every once in awhile to see what everyone is up to, but I haven't posted in forever.

I'm still homeschooling, so life is crazy busy around here at times. I'm going to throw some pictures in here-hopefully this post won't be outrageously long!

Maddie is 12 (12!) and going into 7th grade. She is super social, and loves to tell us at the beginning of each week how busy her calendar is. She talks non-stop, to the point of driving Jas and I crazy, and she is very mature and grown-up for her age. She started playing piano this year and is already really good! She is also Kate's second mommy.




Meg is 10, going into 6th grade and is my quiet child, if there is such a thing in this household. She can be found for hours at a time on the tire swing, reading a book. She loves to sing and make up songs, she is learning the guitar, and she recently started writing poetry and is really quite good at it!




Brianna is 7, going into 2nd, and is my drama queen. Oh my goodness, if there is something to be upset about she will find it and the whole house will know. She is very cuddly and sweet, loves animals, and riding her bike. She is learning piano this year and while it has been a bit hard for her, she is incredibly patient and doing well. She is a girly-girl-Prefers dresses, or in the colder months, pink stretchy pants, and she hates wearing jeans!




Lissa will be 5 in September and will be starting Kindergarten! She is a riot and always keeps us entertained. She loves to make up stories but instead of telling them to us, she sings them and the pinnacle of the story is always about the "Evil, evil, evil girl!" She's very dramatic.




Miss Kate-Almost 18 months old, this child was born to provide me birth control. I love, love, love her, but I sometimes think that if she had been my first she may also have been my last! She never stops talking (or more often shrieking), she never stops moving, she always wants to be the center of attention, and let's face it-she's so darn cute she usually is! I try to not spoil her, but it's hard sometimes! She's "supposed" to be my last and as I said, she's pretty cute. Her sisters all adore her. This picture really shows her true personality-she's my ragamuffin!




Jas and I are doing well. We had a rough year or so when Jas had his hours cut back at work and then was laid off altogether but God provided and Jas ended up starting a new job the week after his old one ended. Jas is also in the process of getting his bachelor's degree through an online program. It is difficult sometimes, but we are making it work-always making sure we have time for each other and time as a family.

I think for a short rundown that's about it! It's really good to see how everyone is doing! I hope now that summer is right around the corner that I can pop in more often!

coasterqueen replied: It's so nice to hear about everyone, especially those we haven't seen in a long time.

For us, well Kylie will ge 8 in September. She's growing up way too fast. School is still boring to her, as she told me the other day. She says it's too easy. She's reading at a 3+ grade reading level, in accelerated reading and math at school. She just wrote a book and I got to go to school and watch her participate in the Young Author ceremony. She is currently in softball, hip hop dance, and Daisy Scouts. She'll be in Brownies in the fall. She is attending a volleyball camp this summer to see if she wants to start volleyball at school and she still talks about wanting to participate in soccer and basketball. This child can't figure out what sport she wants to do.

Megan turned 5 in March and is doing better. She's still in occupational therapy, but doing well most of the time with her food allergies, lactase deficiency and sensory issues. She is definitely my stubborn one. She finishes up her 2nd year of Pre-K this Thursday and will attend Kindergarten in the fall. Although she already says school sucks (yes, not sure where she learned that word ) and it's boring and doesn't see the point in going. Um, yeah, I'm going to have my hands full with her. Right now she is dedicated to gymnastics only. She didn't like hip hop dance -- said it was too much work.

As soon as I call a mover to have our piano moved here both girls will start piano lessons, and my mother wants me to put the girls in horseback riding lessons. Ryan surprisingly agreed so I have to look into that. I'm not sure why as we are gone almost every day of the week, but hey -- live life once and live life to the fullest, right?

Kylie just got a 4-wheeler so my dad and Ryan are teaching her safely to ride it. We just bought a camper this past weekend so we plan to do a lot more camping this summer.

We have 4 furbabies. Sox (m) - cat. Hailey (f) - cat. Both kitties drive us insane but we love them. Then we have Gavin (male dog) who is a big baby and then there is Buster who is still an ONERY puppy and we are all hoping he gets out of this puppy phase soon. He turns 1 year this month.

Ryan and I are doing great. Both busy with work, but thankful we still have our jobs in this economy. We like to improve our land, but this year has proved very hard with being gone so much. Hopefully we get some time this summer to work on it.

Otherwise, that's it for us. I think.

youngmomofone replied: Things are good here! My dh is home, we have a new place (moved before he came home) that Im more comfortable living in, dh starts his new job tonight, the kids are healthy, etc.

My oldest baby is going to be 7 in July. She is finishing up first grade and is an amazing little girl. I miss her when she's at school, so I cant wait for her to get out of school in just a couple weeks.

The youngest is almost 7 months and I couldn't ask for a better baby. She is so happy! She sleeps through the night, is crawling and pulling up to her knees. She's growing sooo fast.

I'm doing good. Struggling to lose some weight, but I think I'm finally ready to be healthy. One has to really want it to achieve it, as I've learned. I'm going to turn 26 next week.

Dh is doing great. He had a real short deployment with his unit, but his unit came home way before schedule anyway. He is starting his new job tonight and things couldn't be better between us.

We are hoping to get pregnant again sometime soon. We aren't preventing so we will see how things go with that.

My3LilMonkeys replied: It's so great to hear from everyone!!!

We are doing good, just rolling right along. Brooke is 6 1/2 and just about finished with Kindergarten. She is doing really well and excels at school. She is my drama queen....everything is a crisis that must be solved with that child! But she is also incredibly sweet and loving.

Madison will be 5 this week and is a little firecracker! She is as stubborn as the day is long and if she doesn't want to be doing something, you can bet she won't do it! She is also incredibly giving and helpful....constantly sharing toys with others and taking care of her brother.

Bobby is 19 months old and he is for sure all boy! He runs everywhere, throws everything and if he was left alone in an empty room for 5 minutes, he'd rip the carpet up if that was the only way to cause trouble! He is just now starting to talk up a storm (a side affect of having 2 sisters who never shut up I'm sure) and is so silly and fun.

PrairieMom replied: Things here have been beyond crazy.
I just gave birth to my 3rd, Charlie, he is 15 days old.
ben is going to be 7 on friday, and is finishing 1st grade.
Al is going to be 4 in 2 weeks and is in preschool.

I quit my job as a respiratory therapist in February, and am now a full time stay at home mom. I am totally loving it.

i have been super busy adjusting to a family of 5, but have been lurking via the web browser on my phone, mostly when I am nursing. I haven't really posted much because I can't type one handed. I'll have more to add once I get more sleep, and both hands for any amount of time.

Maddie&EthansMom replied:
Bahahaahahahahah! It's me you're talking about! Of course I don't mind sharing!

But I'll start a new thread.

PrairieMom replied:
Hi Mollie!

ZandersMama replied: wow i love all the great updates !

Zander is 5. He is just finishing up grade primary and did great. He has some speech problems but we are working on them. He is my sensitive one, he worries a lot, he gets stressed over little things. He is his little brothers guardian and protecter, no one can mess with his Zavier but him. He makes me so proud. He is a big boy, at 5 he needs size 10 in jeans, for length, and a good belt He is up to my shoulders, and growing so so fast. He is an old soul.

Zavier is 3. He is my tricky one, the reason for most of my smiles and most of my tears. I'm sure most of you know, Zavier was diagnosed with autism last July, and also sensory processing disorder, OCD, and speech issues, echolia being the main one. He is also going through a battery of tests right now for seizures. He's in therapy 5 days a week, 3 hrs a day, and goes to a preschool next town over for a few hrs a day on good days.
Aside from the medical crap though, Zavier is awsome. He is a genius, at least according to the tests done with his specialists. He started reading single words at around 18months, and now can read everything that Zander can. He does simple math, addition, subtraction, some division. He never ceases to amaze me. He has come so far and succeeded through so much. He finally now likes for me to touch him and to snuggle him, for a long time, me touching his head to brush his hair was a nightmare. Now he comes to me and asks for a snuggle He cuddles up with a blanket with Zan and will lay on his shoulder and watch tv. He has just come so far. We still have a hard time when we go out to the mall or anything, but if anyone says anything, Zander stands up tall and proud and says, "Do you know my brother has autism and his brain works differant?" I have never seen rude old ladies shut up so fast in all my life!

As for me, i'm tired. A typical weekday i am driving to appointments for most of it and trying to be there for Zander to, I take Zav to preschool, get Zan to school, go home and shower, do some dishes or something, go get Zav, fight to get him to eat something, pick up Zander, rush home for therapy. Supper, baths , books, and bed. It's busy. I;m trying to get Zav transferred to a closer school so I can knock off the hr drive every morning and afternoon but so far no luck. I worry alot about both of them. For Zander because he worries so much about his brother and for Zavier because I don't know what the future will hold I'm scared alot. Money sucks because I can't work and handle Zavs appointments on my own too. On top of what I have typed out there he also goes to speech, the regular ped, eye specialist (something messed up with the muscles in his eyes) just so so much. Wow sorry for the novel guess I have been needing to get that out.......


So all in all we are making it. one day at a time. they are my world and I wouldn't change it.

MommyToAshley replied: I love this thread... I love hearing updates on everyone. But OMG, I can't believe how much our kiddos have grown. I read, "Maddie is 12 (12!) and going into 7th grade." and I about fell out of my chair!

We are doing great.

Ashley is 7.5 years old and has only three weeks left of school and then she will be a 3rd grader. Gosh, that sounds old. She is doing great in school. She scored in the top 1% of nation on her achievement tests and she was accpeted into Mensa. We're so proud of her!

She is the sweetest girl, she just melts my heart with some of the things she says and does. There's never a dull moment when she is around. She has way too many interests and keeps us on the move. Right now she is taking dance and baton, piano, and girl scouts. Her baton team placed 2nd at the State Competition a few weeks ago. When dance ends, she wants to play soccer for the school again so we will be on the move! But, I think her real love is Music. She has always been drawn to music, even as a baby. She LOVES playing the piano and is writing her own songs. Her piano teacher is assisting her with the sheet music, but Ashley does most of it herself.

As for Rod and I... we are keeping busy with the business and running Ashley everywhere. LOL. Life is good, and I thank God for my blessings every day.

MommyToAshley replied:
((hugs)) I read this and I can sense your frustration and worry, but I also hear how proud you are of your boys. I look at how far they have come and I am amazed. They are doing wonderfully and it is all because they have a very special and strong Mom. You may see your words as needing to get it out, but I read what you have wrote and you are my inspiration to be a better Mom myself. Please don't be afraid to ask for help or come here and vent or brag or just share a cup of virtual coffee.

P.S. I love the last words that you wrote... isn't that the truth though, the hardest job in the world is the most rewarding.

Sam & Abby's Mom replied: Wow! so great to hear from everyone.

I'm still around. Popping in and out every once in awhile. Dont have much to say, normally.

Sammy is 5 and starts Kindergarten this Fall. He is so ready for it. He's such a smart and social little guy. Me on the other hand,,, its totally freaking me out to the point of anxiety attacks when I think about him being gone. Of course,,,, HE doesnt know that. LOL I tell him how fun school will be,,, blah,blah,blah --- while on the inside I'm ready to faint ;-)

Abby will be 4 in a few weeks. She's such a beautiful and vibrant little girl. She loves to sing and dance. She also wants to do EVERYTHING her brother does,,,and then some. Since she has an early bday, she wills tart Kindergarten NEXT year. <insert full blown panic attack> Its unreal.

I'm debating what I'll do when they are both in school. I've always been a baker/cake decorator (used to make wedding cakes before having kids) but 'retired' once Sammy was born. I've slowly been building up the business again, now that the kids are getting older. I've been making all of the desserts that my brother sells at the deli he opened in 2007. I've also started accepting orders from acquaintances, now that the kids are getting older and I have more time to devote to custom made desserts. Question is,,, can I make enough money to do it full time once the kids are in school? We really need the money. We knew it would be a financial burden for me to stay home with the kids but we both felt it was a sacrifice worth making. Now that time is almost up so I need to figure out my next step.

Mama~Love replied:
Not yet, I'm only 9 weeks along. Not sure if we'll find out or not.

Mama~Love replied: It's so good to hear from everyone! I can't reply to everyone, but I really enjoyed reading all of the updates .

3xsthefun replied: It is really great to see all of the updates. Sound like everyone is doing well.
As for me I'm still around I just mostly lurk these days.

Kaitlynn is 10 now and is just about finished with 4th grade only about 3 weeks left.
She has done really well in school this year and we are very proud of her. I think it had to do with the teacher she had also. She is slacking a little his quarter in spelling which she has always gotten A's &B's in. Not sure why is doing so bad now.
She is our comedian is always making everyone laugh. She also loves to sing and ride her bike.

Maegan is 6.5 and is just about finished with Kindergarten. She did have a rough start having go to school but she loves it now. She has done really well and is so smart.
She is our little monkey and loves to climb around on her swing set. She also has quiet the little mouth and attitude on her. Sometimes I can't believe some of the things that come from her mouth. She is still a mommies girl though and is really sweet.

Ryan is almost 3. What can I say about Ryan oh boy. He is all boy that is for sure. He is always busy, busy, busy! He loves tools and anything with wheels. He has taken apart stuff that is not suppose to. He is always talking too just like his sisters. LOL. He does love his sisters and is sad in the mornings when they leave for school.

Rob and I are doing pretty well. He is still a mechanical tech and works part time at a computer and a volunteer firefighter.

We bought us a camper back in Feb. and plan do lot of camping and doing lot of other stuff outside this summer.

MommyToAshley replied:
Congratulations!

MommyToAshley replied:
Congratulations!

jem0622 replied: The kids are all great. One of the things that connected me to the moms here was my youngest son, Gabe. When I got pregnant, I found some of you lovely ladies to chat with. Gabe has made such tremendous leaps and bounds in 1st grade. He routinely gets kudos/incentives at school. He is an amazing 7 yr old boy. He recently had surgery for a hernia. He was born with it, but it did not show up until his 7 yr (late appt) well visit. He had the procedure and healed up just fine. He is in Cub Scouts and was so psyched to be a part of that.

My older son, Nathan, is finishing out 4th grade. The boy is so tall! He has loved his 4th grade teachers and his 4th grade year. He played basketball in the winter and they won the championship. It was a very positive experience for him.

The girls, Hannah and Olivia, will graduate preschool next Friday. Where does the time go? Good grief! I am so excited for them to start kindy because they are READY. They are such peas in a pod. Even if they fight, they make up in minutes.

I know I did not post a lot in the last year, so this update is a biggie. From Jan 09 - Jan 10, I lost 43 lbs. Also, in that time, I completed a half marathon and two full marathons. I am a runner. I love it. It is therapeutic, and it is helping me keep the weight off that I worked so hard to lose. I cannot believe how 'tiny' I am, compared to the person that I was for such a very long time. Seriously. I was always a pudge. I saw my mother dealing with health issues...and my sister too. I wanted to fight that as hard as I could and be in control of my health.

As a result of my accomplishments, I inspired my husband to train for a marathon. He completed his first marathon the Sunday before last. It was a tremendous experience for him. He recently got accepted into an MSW program, and also into a program that will cover 85% of the expenses for his MSW. Then he'll work towards his licensing in Social Work. It is a big deal for him.

MomToJade&Jordan replied: Let me see...Jade is on her way to being 8. She had to repeat Kindergarten (mostly for maturaty reasons) So she is currently finishing her 1st grade year. She's reading and writing and quite good at it. She really wants to be a vet when she grows up which doesn't surprise me since her love for animals is so strong. Wise for her 7 years she told me when my Nana passed away a few weeks ago that when people are old and sick they die because God wants to see them and Jesus. If we could just get past her anxious nature (not at all sure where this came from because when she was 2 she had no fear what so ever). She struggles with this on a daily basis and is something I have contemplated talking to her doctor about. Every new thing we come up against there is a lot of hand holding and encouragement, but we manage and every triumph is a celebration. Still my tall skinny blond and quite the favorite with the boys. Yes she has used phrases recently like I heart him and I am crushing on this boy. My favorite by far though was I'm not going to marry Cameron I want to marry a rich man Really? Where do they come up with this stuff? Cameron has the BIGGEST crush on Jade, it's quite adorable and she really likes him too, but won't admit it. His Mom and I have decided that we are just going to arrange that marriage and be done with it

Ah Jordan...she will be 5 in October. We still have one more year before she can go to school, but I will be putting her in VPK in the fall. She is so ready for school and is quite the smarty pants. Jordan has quite the personality and is something you would actually have to experience first hand. Here's an example: on Christmas Eve after telling her that she wasn't going to get presents because she wouldn't go to bed she pointed at each and every one of us and went on a mini tirade. My brother was on the floor and she told him that he wasn't going to get any socks. I was next and I wasn't going to get a Wii. Grandma wasn't get any turtles and grandpa, which was the end of her tirade and the most emphatic, would not be getting any piece of quiet. It was hilarious so we all just started laughing which got her mad because she hates when we laugh at her. The most recent little Jordanism was that Mom and I were bammed from the house and that we needed to stop laughing because this was horrible. She is my girly girl and my performer. She sings about everything which she has been doing since she could form words. Her favorite thing to wear is spinny dresses (seriously we once tried on like 7 dresses because she needed one that spinned just the right way). Still my little love, her hugs and kisses cure all of my ills.

As for me I am doing all right. Turned 35 this year which I can't believe. I have been seeing someone for about 4 months now and he is pretty incredible. Not sure where that will lead, but I am not sweating that too much. I was teaching music and in a Preschool last year, but lost both of those jobs due to the economy. So I had to scramble around to find a job quick and found myself working at Macy's. It's PT, but it's work. I did learn that I am certified to teach music in the public schools so as soon as a job opens I am going to jump right on that. Getting in the school system would be perfect for me and something I really have a passion for. Being home during the day has been easier for me in the long run though and it has given me the chance to watch my Jordy grow which I am very thankful for. I have found a great church that I just love and my faith in Him has grown deeper. I sing in the choir which I absolutely love and I have made some really great friends in the process. I have grown stronger through Him and because of that I have found a level of peace. It's awesome.

So that's us in a nutshell. I have missed all of you so much and it is so great to 'see' you all after all this time. Love this thread Brianne

luvmykids replied: Glad to hear from everyone!

We are still loving life in Texas...more every day and we're all ridiculously happy! The twins are finishing up second grade, Macie will be a Kindergarten graduate in two weeks. They're all doing fantastic in school, have made really great friends, and are like everyone else's kids growing up way too fast. Colt has become an awesome 2nd baseman, Jeff is coaching Kylie's softball team who is undefeated....needless to say we spend most of our time right now at the baseball park and love it.

I've gone back to work but am hoping to get to finish school in the fall. I subbed this last year and came back full circle to what I *thought* I wanted to be when I was a kid...it really confirmed for me that I want to be a teacher but especially here in our school district. I have a strong passion for the people and kids in our community and there is no other place I want to spend my days!

No big plans for the summer, since I'll be working, other than my 20th reunion YIKES!

ZandersMama replied:
thank you some days are better then others, today is a good day

Calimama replied: Naomi that's a great picture, you look awesome!

Anyway we left California and moved to DC this past November. I like it. The snow is a little tough to handle, but a lot of fun! Miabella will be 4 in August. She's amazing. She's turned into this outgoing, sweet little girl. It makes me so proud that she cares about other people's feeling so much. She's also quite the comedian! Sometimes TOO much of one..


She'll start pre-k this fall at a private Christian school. She's really excited about that. She's having a blast with all sites and museums DC offers. I'm still in school and I start working with a mentor program this summer. I was hoping to work with teen moms, but I'm loving the 10-13 age group, so we'll see.

Mommy2Isabella replied: We are still in SC.

I am still a stay at home mom. I found PC when I was pregnant with Isabella, well Sal found PC . We are doing great, my mom recently moved in with us, she was having a really hard time being alone (depression) so that is nice. I have a great relationship with my mom so her living here isn't a big deal. We like it actually.

Isabella is 3 (4 in August) and will be going to K4 at our Church's school. She is sooo smart, she LOVES to read, which she can't do just yet, but she is learning each day, letter sounds and always curious to learn more and write letters and spell names . She is our little princess SASSY princess, but none the less!

Isaia is 2 1/2, doing great. He has really started talking this past couple months and it is sooo amazing to watch him think and put words together into sentences. He is such a little man. He is always trying to take care of Bella and Me. It is the CUTEST THING. When we eat breakfast or any meal, when Bella or I finish he grabs our plate and says "all done? put in the sink for you" It is sooo cute!!

Ian Matthew is 8 (almost 9 months old). He is crawling, clapping and going from crawling to sitting up. He is such a Momma's boy. I am still breastfeeding and sometimes I wish he weren't so attached, if I walk out of a room he cries! He loves to be held, and rocked He is a snuggle baby and I love it.

Sal is doing great as well, he hates his job, but he has really started to branch out and get into writing more and more. He just got on with a local magazine and is learning the ropes there. I hate that he hates his job. He wants to go to Vet school in the near future , so for now he is doing lot's of freelance writing for some people and getting into the local magazine here, and soon he will be brought on as an Editor and get paid he is really looking forward to that.

We have a new addition to our family as well : A Golden Retriever Puppy, named Boomer he is GREAT with the kids, we got him when he was 8 weeks old and he is about 5 months now. Such a well behaved sweet puppy, and GORGEOUS to boot

That's how we are doing! I will have to post photos in another thread of our newest family shoot.

jcc64 replied: Awesome to see all these long lost buddies. Hi everybody!!!! I've missed you all, and hope you plan to pop in here now and then. It's great to see how everyone's family is growing and changing.
My oldest, Alec, will be graduating high school next month and is headed off to University at Buffalo to study physical therapy. Still can't wrap my head around the fact that he's leaving.
Noah, 14, is a hs freshman, almost 6 ' tall, and like his brother, still a major baseball junkie. Much of our free time is spent at ball fields.
Corey is 7, just finishing 2nd grade, and a pretty serious gymnast. She now competes at a level 6, and was the only member of her team to qualify for the NY state championships. She is the joy of my life.
I lost my job in textiles a few years back due to the economic downturn and competition from China. I went back to school and trained to be a middle/high school English teacher. I'm currently teaching 7th and 8th grade, and really enjoying it. Wasn't easy starting over at my age, but well worth the effort.

Hillbilly Housewife replied: Here's mine.

In case there was some ambiguity in my past posts, my kids' dad and I split up. I won't go into more details, but we're getting along quite well now, and have joint custody of our 3 kids.

Zach will be 8 in August, he's excelling in school, and has a bit of an attitude. He gets overexcited abut things and likes to micromanage things.

Emilie has calmed down a lot in the last 18 months.. could be because of our life situation changing.. I don't know for sure, but she's a real sweetheart. She still enjoys singing at the top of her lungs and still can't sit still, but at least she doesn't get into things she shouldn't get into.

Naomie is a little brat... it's a good thing she's cute. She's manipulative and will bend your will to hers at any chance she gets, just because she can.

I'm doing well. I'm still with the same guy, we're doing renovations on the condominium I bought last year.. and we're going to put it up for sale in the fall. Hopefully renos will be done by then... if not, no biggie. Hopefully it will be sold by next summer, and then we have plans to purchase a home together.

The kids love him to bits, and so do I.

moped replied: Not much to report.

Sure nice to see people back here - been so quiet lately!

Lets see:

Jack is 6 next month, loves school and can't wait for Grade 1 because he thinks they will focus more on math

Laila is 2.5 and doing really well. She is a bit of a trouble maker, and tries to get her daddy to keep her out of trouble with me

I am working full time, Tom still home with the kids. I think he likes it a lot! And thank god cause we could never afford daycare in this city!

Summer is coming so we will be busy doing things outside!

Thats all here!

3_call_me_mama replied: Hey everyone... haven't been around in a LONG time... but thought i'd pop over adn say hi
My name needs a change i'm now 4 call me mama!
Our youngest Faith was born last feb.
Cameron is 7 1/2 homeschooled and just completed 3rd grade curriculum. He;s reading at a 6th grade level and 5/6 math as well. That boy is still smart as a whip! BUT sarcastic !UGH that i could do without!! He really enjoys golf, skiing, and is currently taking track and field with the elementary school kids..
Kathleen is 5 1/2 homeschooled and just completed her 1st grade curriculum. SHe is all girl, very princess like and BIG into horses. Very excited for riding camp this summer and is currently in her 3rd year in ballet. She was in cinderella last year as a bluebird adn this year is a rag doll in Copelia.
Graham has to be the sweetest little boy ever. 3 1/2 attends a christian preschool 2 days a week. He's loveable, sweet and just a great all around kid.. just learning to ride a bike and write his name
and then there is Faith. a terror on two feet. crazy wild loveable baby that is totally attached to her momma she turned 1 in february and is already a spit fire. Only one of the 4 that actually looks like me !LOL
Dennis and I are doing great. Celebrating 8 years being married this summer, and doing well. We are getting ready for a road trip to Disney at the end of the month... very excited for that Nice to catch up with everyone.

OH almost forgot ... me!! I'm working as a lactation consultant working on becoming an IBCLC. Currently working for WIC as a peer counselor helping moms breastfeed and LOVE it! I also work at the local hospital still doing switchboard on occasion.
think that about it!

coasterqueen replied:
Nice to *see* you. I'm SO SUPER jealous!!!! That's been one of my all-time dreams. I'd go for it, but will have to wait until the kids are gone because around here they really like you to go to nursing school first and I would have to do that nights/weekends and I'm not going to take what little time I do have with my family to do that, so it will have to wait.

I want to hear all about it some time!!!!

MomToJade&Jordan replied: Carrie when will you be at Disney? The girls and I will be there May 22nd

3_call_me_mama replied:
driving down on teh 26th... checking into Disney May 28-june 2

~Roo'sMama~ replied:
That's awesome, Julie! You must be feeling incredible. I've been trying to run lately, but I can't very far before my lungs give out.