A Political Debate between Five Year Olds

Tuesday afternoon in the car on the way home from school:

Nicholas - Mom, did you call into the radio station and tell them you were voting for Obama?
Mom - No, I didn't.
Nicholas - Did you go vote for Barack Obama?
Mom - Yes, I did.
Sebastien - That's good, Miss Trisha, that's who I would vote for.
Nicholas - Yeah, me, too. I really like Barack Obama.
Sebastien - I don't like John McCain, he's a bad guy.
Nicholas - Whose John McCain?
Mom - The other man who is running for president.
Nicholas - I would vote for John McCain.
Sebastien - No, Nicholas, you can't for John McCain he takes away money and jobs from people.
Nicholas - No he doesn't, I am voting for him.
Sebastien - Well, I still want Obama. Go Obama!
Nicholas - Mom, do you think I can go inside at Sebastien's house and play the Wii for a few minutes?

We were off to see the Wizard . . .

Yesterday, Nicholas and I went to see the Wizard of Oz with Amy and Zachary. We had a fabulous time! Nicholas' eyes were glued to the stage. When he was asking questions, he wouldn't even turn his head for a second, he didn't want to miss what was happening! I thought about watching the movie with him before we went but then I decided that maybe it would be more fun for him to watch it the first time on stage. I asked him afterwards what his favorite part was and his reply was "The whole thing, mom!" What made my day was when I was getting ready he asked, "Why are you wearing pretty clothes mom?" I said, "We are getting dressed up for the play. That's what people do when they go. Why, do you want me to wear something else?" "No, wear your pretty clothes mom, you look very pretty."

Karate

Tonight Nicholas tried Karate for the first time. He absolutely loved it! He was even able to chop the board in half. The other moms were impressed with this, they said usually the kids can't do it the first time. The only down side was that when we came home, he kept Karate chopping me!

Hockey Player

Nicholas has really been improving in his hockey. A few months ago he didn't go near the puck very much when the kids played against each other. Last night, he was following the puck around and actually trying to get it! The kids have jerseys now so they look like a team, it was the cutest thing ever. He is going to try Karate on Monday. I wonder how that is going to go!

Just like Mom

Nicholas has discovered the nurse's office at school. I have received two phone calls home this week because he doesn't feel good. Both times I have been able to convince him to stay yet I think it's becoming a pattern. If he is going to take after me, then he will be up there everyday trying to come home. I just don't think God should punish me like this. I don't even remember all the things like this I put my mom through. Will Markie have perfect kids because he was so perfect growing up??

Starting to Read

Nicholas and I have practicing his sight words which is the beginning step of starting to read. So far he knows 15 words by sight. His teacher sent home a little book made out of paper that the kids are using to learn to read. It says "I see b, I see y, I see b, d, and y." Really simple, in a pattern but boy did it bring tears to my eyes when Nicholas read the whole thing to me!! The book has like 8 pages in it and he could tell me what every letter and word said. My baby is growing up, he is reading to me!!

Adjusting to School

Nicholas has been enjoying school. He loves his teacher and enjoys everything they are doing. The only thing he doesn't understand is why he can't just go home after lunch. He thinks I should be able to pick him up because all they do after lunch is take a nap and then play outside. In a way, he is right, it's just that Florida State Law that keeps me from actually doing it.

Hurricane Day

Our hurricane day was not a hurricane day at all. In fact, there wasn't even a drop of rain!! So we spent our day at the movies with Kristyn, Sebastien, and Steven. We saw Stars Wars The Clone Wars and we loved every minute of it. The best part was when Sebastien asked all of us to name our favorite parts on the way out. When did he get big enough to ask questions like that? These kids are growing up so fast! Back to school tomorrow!

The First Day

Nicholas was just adorable on his first day back to school. He had his uniform on and was ready to go! He loves his teacher and his classroom. He said a prayer, played outside, had snack, played in centers, and learned to clap quietly with his two pointer fingers. He demonstrated this by telling me to repeat after him, showing me how, and then telling me to try. It was so adorable I couldn't stand it. As for the second day of school, it has been cancelled due to the hurricane that is currently over the Keys. At least I won't have to wait an hour in car line tomorrow, that is one good thing!

The First Day of School Eve

Tomorrow marks the beginning of Nicholas' full time school career. Gone are the days of going to the aquarium, zoo, or library any time we want to. Now he will be in school from 8 in the morning until 3 in the afternoon. It will just be Christopher and I, wandering around waiting for Nicholas to come back home. As I have said a hundred times before, it's hard to believe five years has already gone by. Where did the time go? Why did my baby have to grow up so quickly?? His teacher this year is Ms. Ortiz and we met her today. She was very nice and the classroom is similar to the one he was in last year. I know he is going to have a great year, I just hope he doesn't spend too much time talking about playstation and videogames! So, at 6:15 tomorrow morning, the school year begins and Nicholas will officially be in Kindergarten.

The Trip

Nicholas is a seasoned traveller now, quietly sitting in his seat, playing games, chewing gum. He knows when to put the gum in so his ears don't pop. He knows that we can buy snacks that are better than the pathetic free peanuts from the flight attendants. He knows there is ice cream at the airport that his mother will buy hoping that the memory of it will keep the kids quiet on the plane. He knows when he gets to CT he'll be spoiled by all of his aunts and grandmother. Why shouldn't he be good? He really enjoyed Uncle Mike's playstation. Whoever created playstation - thanks alot. No, I don't mean it. All the child wants to do is play video games. It's as if his very existance depends upon those games. We did manage to pull him away long enough to swim, pick blueberries, and visit the Trolley Museum. During all of which he continuously asked how much longer until we were home so he could play playstation.

A Nice Conversation

Tonight Nicholas was laying on one couch, all covered up with a blanket, his snack of crackers and milk sitting next to him. I was sitting on the other couch looking at the new Southern Living catalog. All of a sudden he says, "Hey mom, mom!" "What Nicholas?" "Isn't this nice, a mom, a son, relaxing, watching TV together. It's really nice mom." "It is really nice, I like watching TV with you." "I love you mom, you are my best mom." "I love you, too, Nicholas, you are my best son." How old is he again? I wish he wouldn't ever grow up.

PlayStation Withdrawl

Nicholas went through PlayStation withdrawl on Sunday at the beach. It was literally a five year old going through withdrawl. He cried for at least two hours wanting to go home and play his videogames. He begged Nana and I to go to the store and buy a GameBoy because he needs to play it. He hated the beach and wanted to have his games to play. We could not believe how worked up he was. It was like he was never going to stop crying or screaming for the PlayStation. So now, we have new PlayStation rules. We are only playing for a little while in the morning and a little while in the afternoon.

Hockey Team

Tonight was Nicholas first real hockey team practice. I did ruin it by forgetting his bag with all of his equipment and skates. We went to the beach yesterday and I took it out of the trunk. I did not remember to put it back in so it was left at home. I started to turn around but then Kristyn saved us by finding the equipment we needed. Then Jason bought Nicholas new skates. So all in all it was a good night. Nicholas hit the puck a few times and was even the goalie a couple of times. He really seems to like it. He made a pass and then the kid he passed to scored a goal. Not too bad getting an assist on his first night of real hockey!

Learning to Read

Nicholas wants to learn to read. We have been reading short books before he goes to bed that are helping. He has started to recognize the word Nemo, the, and he. I can't believe he is already starting to learn to read. I wish I could shrink him back to Christopher's size!

PlayStation

PlayStation now rules our home. It sounds funny but it's true. Nicholas is obsessed with Hulk, Indiana Jones, and Star Wars. He sits in front of the TV and screams at it like a grown man does when football is on. He gets so frustrated when he can't do something yet can take his eyes off for five seconds. He has finally started giving his friends turns, hopefully he will let them have more than five minutes sometime in the near future.

Pool Party!

The pool party was a huge success, everyone had a great time. Nicholas asked if next year we could add the Limbo to the party because it was the only thing that was missing! Kristyn bought decorations and flowered necklaces, the kids were so excited! I still have some of the stuff hanging outside and Nicholas is thrilled that we are going to leave it up all summer long. It was such a nice way to end the year. I really liked all the kids in his class and I can't stop looking at the pictures I took. It is hard to believe that preschool is over with and Kindergarten is up next!

The Last Week

This is Nicholas' last week of school. Then he will officially be a kindergartener. I know this because he reminds me everyday. He is so excited to be in kindergarten next year. I just don't know where my little baby went! He can't wait to be dropped off in the morning instead of walking down the hall with me. I think I am going to cry when I can't walk with him! So Friday marks the end of EC4A and the beginning of full time school for my little guy. We are celebrating with a class pool party that afternoon here at our house. Hurray for summer and not waking up early!

A Special Prayer

Nicholas and Sebastien are sitting in the backseat, patiently waiting for me to buckle them in, when Nicholas brings up Sebastien's cat who recently died. He asks me if I know that Spencer is dead. I do know, so I answer yes. Sebastien says that he is sad but it's OK. Nicholas says that he is sad for Sebastien and he is going to say prayer. He begins with the sign of the cross, "In the name of the father, the son, and the holy spirit, Amen. Angels take care of Sebastiens cat, Spencer. We miss him and keep him safe in heaven. Amen."

Pressure

Nicholas was playing his Star Wars game today and asking me a million questions about how he could get past this one bad guy. So I was trying to tell him how to do it when all of a sudden he turns around and says "MOM! Stop pressuring me. You are pressuring me. I can't do it with all this pressure!" He then started crying. So I said I was sorry and stayed quiet for the rest of the game. Who knew the force was so important.

Butterfly Field Trip

Nicholas had a fantastic time on the field trip to MOSI. There weren't any butterfly incidents, he enjoyed them this time. The best part was that our class was the only class in the hands on section for kids. In the past, there have been lots of kids and it was hard for Nicholas to get to try things. This time, no one else was there and all the kids had a blast. I love to listen to Nicholas explain the life cycle of the butterfly, it amazes me how much he knows already. He's just so smart and perfect!

Tricky Questions

Nicholas - "You don't like dad do you mom?"
Me - "I like dad. What do you mean?"
Nicholas - "You don't love him."
Me - "No, I don't love dad anymore but I do like him. We are friends."
Nicholas - "So you like dad but you aren't going to kiss him anymore, right?"
Me - "No, I am not going to kiss him, but I like him and we are friends."
Nicholas - "Like me and Bash are friends, right?"
Me - "Right."

Did we really just have this conversation?

Butterflies

Nicholas' class is studying butterflies and their life cycle. It absolutely amazes me how much Nicholas learns in just one day. He came home talking about the chrysalis, the egg, the butterfly, what changes happen when. I can't believe how much he remembers and how much he loves learning! All he can talk about is the field trip they are going to take to Mosi to learn more about it and to go inside the garden where the butterflies can land on you. I reminded him of the time we went to one in Connecticut with Aunt Wendy and Aunt Flippy. He has decided that butterflies landed his nose and Aunt Flippy's nose and that they both hated it. So, we'll see what happens with our next butterfly experience . . .

Another Inspiring Boy Conversation

Bash - "Hey, Miss Trisha, I didn't like it when Anastasia said that I wasn't her friend. So, I said I don't like that and I walked away."
Me - "I am very proud of you Bash, that was the right thing to do."
Nicholas - "Mom, Mom, if someone told me that they didn't like me I would say that I didn't like that and walk away, too."
Me - "That is a great idea, I am proud of you. We should just walk away and not tattle or argue."
Bash - "Nicholas, if a stranger is trying to get you I know what you should do. You should kick them in the balls. That way they will get hurt and you can run away."
Nicholas - "I will kick them, but I am going to kick them in the penis. That way they will fall over and I can run away."
Me - "That's a good idea boys, you should kick them and run away."
Nicholas - "My poppy knows a short cut to the skating rink so we can get there fast."
Bash - "So does my poppy. And one time, I was drinking water and my dad came up behind me and started making chicken noises. It scared the heck out of me! Can you believe it Miss Trisha?"

All of this in the 10 minute car ride to drop Sebastien off at Patty's.

5th Birthday

I think Nicholas had the best birthday ever. He had a party at Pump It Up and loved every minute of it. The theme was Transformers and the cake was hit! He loved sitting on the king chair and opening his presents. He really thought he was something! He spent most of his actual birthday with Jason. When I picked him up he was really excited, usually he doesn't want to leave, since he knew there would be presents and cake! Uncle Markie made cheeseburgers on the grill and Nicholas opened his presents. He really wanted a Wii with a Transformer game like Sebastien but I couldn't find a Wii anywhere on earth. So I went with PlayStation 2 since it had a Transformer game. He doesn't know the difference and was so excited when he opened it up. I also gave him an electric guitar and Joe and Kristyn gave him an amplifier which he absolutely loves. He plays songs for me every day and is going to take lessons from Joe. I am glad he had such a great day, he deserves it!

Book Fair

Today was Nicholas' book fair at school. He was so excited because I gave him money to go shopping for a book all on his own. It's the first time he has gone down without me and used money to pick his very own book. He came home with a Star Wars book and a Transformers book. Not exactly quality literature but since I volunteered at the book fair on Tuesday, there are better books for his Easter basket!

A Happy Little Guy

He spent the entire three days of snow outside and loving it. For a Florida baby he sure adjusted well! He threw snowballs, went sledding, and made two snowmen. He couldn't have been happier. He dragged everyone that would go out there with him. I even took a few turns down the hill - I couldn't miss all the fun! Uncle Mike took him on the snowmobile and Nicholas was just beside himself! He is already planning next year's trip!

The Snow!

We were outside in the snow by 8:30 this morning! It is cold but absolutely beautiful! Nicholas rolled all around in it and was just beside himself with excitement. He ran everywhere and made two snow angels. I finally talked him back inside with the promise of hot chocolate and a phone call to Uncle Markie to ask him to bring a sled when he comes!

Girlfriends

Nicholas played outside yesterday afternoon with the neighborhood kids. There were a few older kids out there, too. So when we went inside Nicholas said, "I think that girl was one of the boys' girlfriends. They were boyfriend and girlfriend, mom." What do you say to that? Then he said, "I am going to have a boyfriend when I grow up." "No, you are going to have a girlfriend." "No, mom, it's called a boyfriend. I am going to have a boyfriend." "So you want a boy, like Sebatien or Thomas or you want a girl like Madison or Hannah." "A girl, mom, duh, but it's called a boyfriend." "No, you would be the boyfriend because you are a boy and the girl is a girlfriend because she is the girl." "Oh, then I want a girlfriend but not Madison or Hannah. I will meet someone different when I am bigger and she will be my girlfriend and then I will marry her." "OK, that sounds good." "I don't want to marry Ms. Rodriguez though, I don't want to marry teachers. Sebastien does but I don't." "OK, you can marry whomever you would like." "Maybe I could marry Miss Deanna, mom." "OK, you can try but she's already married." "No, mom, I am just kidding. Don't tell her I said that." Was I talking to my almost five year old son, or a teenager? I still can't figure out where that conversation came from!

Beach Boy

We went to visit the Quintero's today to see their new store. It is just amazing! We really enjoyed it. Then we went off to the beach only to realize that I did not bring any toys or a blanket. After a quick call to Lori and stop at their house, we were all set with a football, shovel, pail, and her trusty Rug Rats blanket which she has been carrying around in her car since I have known her. Nicholas played football for an hour with Steven and Markie. The three of them just ran around and had a ball. Christopher tried to follow them sometimes but mostly he just pointed at and talked to the birds. It was such a nice afternoon. Right before going to bed Nicholas stopped in the hallway and said, "Mom, it was really a good day today. I had the best time playing football at the beach. I love the beach." Well that just says it all.

The Valentine

Aunt Wendy sent Nicholas a Valentine with money in it this week. He was so excited when the money came falling out of the card. He started yelling - read it mommy, read it! Who sent this to me! So we read the card and he asked if we could hang it with the other cards. Then he looked over at me and said - Now I can buy that Transformer that you won't buy me. You never buy me anything mommy. We have to go to Walmart right now to get it. Great, thanks for making look good Aunt Wendy!

I Crack Myself Up

I finally put batteries in Nicholas' walkman - which he thinks is an ipod - so he could listen to it while falling asleep tonight. He wanted me to read his book to him while he was listening to the music. He refused to take the headphones off and I could hear the pirates singing away clear as day. So instead of reading, I just paused, turned the page, paused again, turned the page, paused again and so on. After about half the book he slowly moved one headphone over as if to check to see if I was really reading because he wasn't quite sure. It just cracked me up! Then he couldn't figure out what I was laughing at so I had to really read the book before he caught on and I had to go back to the beginning!

Blowing Bubbles

Nicholas has figured out how to blow bubbles with his gum! He is so proud of himself he can hardly stand it! He was starting to do it last night and I gave him a couple of directions to get him going. All of a sudden he blew the biggest bubble! He couldn't believe and I couldn't believe it and Christopher wanted to grab it! Now he keeps chewing gum and blowing bubbles over and over.

Just Like Auntie Moo

Mr. Nicholas uses his humidifier every night while he is sleeping. He is not sick, we do not have a problem with too much dry heat, we live in Florida after all. Nope, he just enjoys the noise it makes. Which is exactly how his Auntie Moo was when she was little. She always had to have her humidifier, sick or not! He even wakes up when I try to turn it off when he is sleeping. He also has this little toe that he can stick out which is just like the trick she does with hers - but that's a story for another time!

A Breakthrough!

Nicholas started writing his name this weekend! He has not wanted to try or work on it since school started. Finally, Transformer valentine's day cards motivated him. He wanted to sign all the cards to his friends. He is so stubborn when it comes to this stuff, I just can't imagine where that comes from!

Transformers

Transformers have taken over our lives. We play transformers, eat with transformer plates, watch transformers, sleep on transformers, bathe with transformer soap and towels, and are having a transformer birthday part. I even have to tell bedtime stories that have transformers in them. I am not allowed to leave them out. I guess the change from trucks is nice, I just wish I could actually transform one of the transformers. We have save that for Uncle Markie because I just can't figure it out even with the directions!

Hockey Skates

Nicholas went through is first skating lesson wearing the new hockey skates that Nana and Poppy gave him. He was excellent! His teacher even came out and said that for his first time he did really well. I am going to get him over to the rink for some practice this weekend and next week. He is so excited about his skates!

A Nighttime Miracle

Nicholas has gone the past three nights without wearing a diaper to bed. He has still been wearing a diaper to bed since he was potty trained. Finally, for the past three nights he has skipped the diaper and not wet the bed! I am so very proud and excited for him! It is so hard to believe that he will be 5 in just a few short months! I am signing him up for Kindergarten this week!

Gymboree Winter Camp

Nicholas went to two days of Gymboree camp. He just loves that place! I am so glad I signed him up, he really had a great time with Miss Sarah and the other kids. He even made a New Year's hat and drew a picture of what he's going to do for fun in 2008. It was a picture of him and Sebastien on a roller coaster at Busche Garndens. I guess that's a hint!

An Interesting Christmas

Nicholas had fun this Christmas. He was upset for a few hours, screaming, crying, etc. wondering if his dad could bring over his Bumblebee transformer. I saved the day by volunteering to drive to get it. Once Bumblebee was safely inside our house, the day improved. He absolutely loves his guitar, he plays it like he's a rock star! I just can't get over the way his head nods, he strums the guitar, he looks like such a cool dude!

Say it Again

I stayed up late and put together the Bionacles Nicholas received for Christmas from his Aunt Wendy and Aunt Missy. Yes, it was my idea for them to buy them, little did I know how hard it was going to be to put them together. So after about 45 minutes of putting these things together, I finally get to bed around 11:00. The next morning Nicholas sees them and comes running over to me. He throws his arms around me and says, "You are the best mommy ever, I love you the mostest!" Now that is something I want to hear again!

The Cavity Filling

Yesterday Nicholas had his two cavities filled. It was his first time having this done and the morning went terrible. He was clinging to my leg, crying, screaming, begging, pleading, even bargaining. I dragged him there, literally kicking and screaming, into the front door and onto a chair. It took forever for them to call him back and then I had to carry him to the door. I peeled him off of me and handed him over the hygenist. She started talking about the video games he could play and told me it's going to be OK. Luckily, I brought a book which kept my mind off of the torture I was sure was going on back there. Finally, they called me back and Nicholas comes running up to me saying, with a huge wad of gauze hanging out of his mouth, that he was good and didn't even cry once. He is such a tough guy!

Christmas Vacation

I am not sure who decided that the kids should get out a whole week before Christmas but they obviously do not have kids. What do you do with a child who is anxiously waiting for Christmas to come for seven whole days without school??? His Christmas list would be another mile long if I added all the things he keeps asking for. If I have to watch Spongebob one more time I might turn into a sponge. Today is only day one of vacation . . .

The Christmas Gimmies

This child is obsessed with Christmas this year. It is all about put this on my list, I want that, Santa is bringing me that, and on and on. I tried to make him feel bad for others and lucky for what he has by having him help me with the share box project from school. The kids are supposed to go with mom or dad and buy things like shampoo, soap, toothbrush, wash cloth, etc. for an orphan. We included a couple little toys and one of them was a small package of transformers. A couple of hours after we arrive home, I see Nicholas playing with transformers that look awfully familiar. Turns out, he opened the poor orphans transformers and wanted to play with them. After I finished yelling at him, he said that he was just going to play with them, he was going to put them back, the orphan doesn't mind sharing. Huh.

Field Trip

Today Nicholas and I went on a field trip with his class to the Young Chef's Academy. We had a nice time and Nicholas made baby jesus, a sheep, and a camel from the Nativity. He really wanted to lick the icing off of his fingers but the woman who was working with his table was scary so he didn't dare. She yelled at a couple of kids rather rudely and made one wash her hands even though she wasn't doing anything different from the rest of them. Aside from the cranky lady, we really did enjoy it. It's so much fun to watch the kids interact with each other. Nicholas was trying to help everyone and share the frosting. He helped the woman take the plastic off the dough and roll the dough out. He even told her all about how his dad took him to go on the waterslides and how fun it was. He also told her that his dad picks him on Wednesdays and today is Wednesday so his dad is coming. At least she was nicer to him the rest of the kids!

The Best Big Brother

I worked on putting the outside lights up this morning while Christopher sat in his stroller and Nicholas used his tools to "fix" his bike. When Christopher would start crying Nicholas would jump right up and run over to make sure he was OK. When he cried again, he ran over and pushed him closer to where he was working. He even went to find him a different toy to keep him quiet. He is just the best, most loving big brother!

Hot Lunch

I voluteered in Nicholas' classroom yesterday and I happened to be there during their lunchtime. As it turns out, Nicholas loves having hot lunch. He eats just about everything, even the yogurt that he will not eat at home. He drinks a little carton of regular milk, only drinks apple juice or juice boxes at home. Ms. Rodriguez said that he eats his hot lunch better than the lunch I send him and that I should keep giving him hot lunches!

Teacher Conference

Today I met with Ms. Rodriguez, Nicholas' teacher, for his conference. He is learning to write his name and working on recognizing his letters and numbers. He is a little behind the rest of his class because he prefers TV, blocks, swimming, and trucks to learning but what can I do! My friend Deanna is going to help him, he doesn't want my help at all. He really doesn't seem to care about that stuff when he's home. His teacher isn't worried, but of course I want everything to be just right so Deanna is going to help like the alphabet a little more. He is too much!

Pumpkin Carving

Nicholas loved every minute of pumpkin carving. He was determined to get the guts out himself. He did a pretty good job and then Andrew tried to finish for him. Andrew did not go to Mark Stenson's School of Pumpkin Carving so he did not know how to scrape the inside of the pumpkin completely clean. Markie helped Nicholas carve a face and the finished product is just perfect. By the end of the carving, they were calling me names. I don't know why, I am not that bossy!

Pumpkin Patch Field Trip

Today was Nicholas' field trip to the pumpkin patch. He had a great time and the field trip was really nice. They went on a hunt for the biggest pumpkin, learned the types of pumpkins and gourds, read a story, and then picked out a small pumpkin for a school project. I was not expecting it to be so organized so I was pleasantly surprised! Nana took pictures, Christopher watched everyone, and Nicholas had a great time! I pretended I was Sebastien, who was in Disney with his cousin Jack, and picked out a pumpkin and paid with my dollar. We had a great time!

Just Like Brothers

Nicholas and Sebastien spent the afternoon with each other and Nana today. They were fine until I cam home and then the bickering started. Once Kristyn arrived, the boxing gloves came out! They were tattling, saying your not my friend anymore, which is their favorite thing to say to each other, and fighting over who was going to sit next to Christopher on the way to skating lessons. When we arrived at skating, the first words out of Nicholas' mouth to their friend Max was that Bash is mad at me. Bash was pushing Christopher's stroller and Nicholas was trying to push Bash out of the way so he could do it. They argued back and forth and on and on. Then as we are getting ready to leave, Sebastien becomes upset that he isn't going home with us. Nicholas starts being mean again and saying that he can't in that cranky voice he uses. Kristyn and I just try to hurry them out to the parking lot so we don't have to hear it anymore. As we are loading up and Kristyn and Bash are driving away, Nicholas yells - "I love Bastien!" They are just like brothers!

Zoo Boo

Nicholas loved his second trip to Zoo Boo. We went with Lori, Herbie, Steven, and Markie. We probably shouldn't have gone on the carriage ride since a scary grave digger jumped out and at Nicholas who sitting in the back. He talked about the rest of the time we were there. He only woke up once last night and did not mention the scary guy so hopefully he has forgotten about it. We had a great time - thanks Herbie and Lori!

Bash's Third Annual Halloween Party

Today was Bash's Third Annual Halloween Party - at our house! There was a 60% chance of rain today so the party was moved over here to avoid a washout at Kristyn's. Bash was the director of the party and Nicholas was the co-director. I think they were both confused about whose party it really was but to set the record straight it was still Bash's party! The kids had a pinata and they played pin the face on the mummy. The cutest moment was when Bash kissed a little girl named Gracin on the cheek. I think she has a crush on him so it was really sweet. Nicholas loved wearing his costume but has decided to be a hockey player when he goes trick or treating. He is going to be in for a big surprise when he realizes he is being a transformer no matter what! Hannah had the cutest cheerleading outfit, she even had pom-poms in her hair and on her shoes! The scariest costume was Zachary in his pirate/skeleton outfit. His brother Joshua was supposed to be Captain Jack Sparrow but came as himself instead. I had a year like that with Nicholas so I can sympathize! We had a great time and it is so much fun to see how the kids change year after through the costumes, games we play, and things they do. I hope Kristyn keeps up this tradition!

Touchdown - Almost!

Nicholas had is second flag football game today. He had the ball, he started running, he changed directions just in time to start running toward the right end of the field when his entire team tackled him! Yes, his entire team tackled him in flag football. It was really the funniest thing! If I had a video camera with me I could have won that ridiculous show with the funny videos. It was that funny to see all the red shirts pile onto their teammate!

Another Illness

Nicholas has a cold and virus now. He did not go to school today and had a fever all weekend. Sick kids are not that much fun! Today is feeling much better though. I took him to the Dr anyway just to make sure the ears and throat are fine, better to be safe then sorry! Everything check out OK! He is on his way to school in the morning!

Flag Football

Nicholas had his first flag football game last week. He really seemed to enjoy it. I am not sure what will happen the first time someone takes his flag but it's still fun to watch! He was down in position to hike the ball and looked like a real football player. It is the most adorable thing to see the kids playing sports. They are so cute running up and down the field trying to figure out which way is the right way to go to make that touchdown!

The First Hockey Game

Kristyn and Joe gave us tickets to the hockey game last Saturday night - awesome seats I might add - thanks so much! Nicholas absolutely loved it! His eyes were glued on the game the whole time! He watched the puck go back and forth, asked questions, and wanted to know when he could play hockey, too. A player went down and it looked like he hurt his face. Nicholas asked what happened and I said sometimes the players get hurt, that's why they wear the helmets and pads. He has told everyone about the hockey player who feel down and hurt his face. I think he was really impressed with the Lightning!

The List

I have mentioned the Christmas list that has already begun. The list is going to fill an entire notebook at this rate. Every time we see something in the store, on TV, in a magazine or in a catalog, it has to go on the list. Santa's sleigh is not going to be able to carry all of these things!

Tricky Skates

Nicholas has been taking skating lessons for about 14 weeks now. He moved up to the next class with his friends Max and Sebastien and life is pretty good for him. Until today that is. He must have asked a hundred times if he could use "tricky skates" aka hockey skates and I said no over and over and over. Before he can use hockey skates he needs to be able to skate without any problems in the figure skates. When we left the rink tonight, the new questions was did I put tricky skates on his Christmas list. I guess he just really wants to use those tricky skates, maybe it's because he wants to be like Steven and Uncle Markie. (And to answer the question running through your mind as you are reading this, yes, there is a Christmas list already!)

Is my hair still spiked?

It sounds like a cute question, doesn't it? Not so much when you hear it every two minutes on the way to school every morning! We spike his hair everyday, it looks so cute! Those little freckles combined with the spikes, it's just so adorable I can't stand it! The only problem is the repeated question - Is my hair still spiked? Is my hair still spiked? I try to liven it up by answering no but after he replies "You're just kidding!" The question just pops back up again!

A Better Day

Nicholas' day went much better. He now likes school and his teacher. He even taught me the little hot dog song he learned today! I love it when we learn new songs! I hope tomorrow goes even better for him!

The First Day

So, not a perfect first day but still a step up from last year. We were late due to horrendous traffic because of a tragedy with a police officer. Then, we start walking down the hallway as quickly as we can because he class is the last one. I notice the people standing still during announcements but some are walking so I keep going. Finally, a rude woman, I believe a teacher, says please stop. So I stop and say I'm sorry, we're new here. So she explains that we have to stop where we are during morning prayer. Not to be rude, but no one was praying while I was walking. So we are standing there and we start reciting the Our Father and then Hail Mary, I made sure to say them both very loudly so that woman would know what a good Catholic I am. Then we continued on to the classroom. I pick Nicholas up after school and start asking questions but he is just sitting there. So I stop and figure he'll tell me when we get home. We pull in the drive way and Bash is not that happy either. He had a problem with a boy in a soccer shirt who kept picking on him. A little while later Nicholas started crying and told me that his teacher yelled at him to sit down and that he hates school. He doesn't want to go there tomorrow. Yes, this is quite a story but last year, I couldnt' get him there because he was throwing a huge fit. What will happen tomorrow?

Ms. Rodriquez

She is Nicholas' teacher this year. We met her on Sunday after mass. I think she is really going to be good for Nicholas. She is very organized, nice, but no nonsense, and that is what he needs. She even has a bearded dragon in her classroom. Nicholas first classroom job is veterinarian so he will be working with that lizard right away. I can't believe he will be in school from 7:50 to 12:00, what a big boy he is!

School Days

School is getting ready to start for this little guy. He is going to be there five mornings a week this year and I am a little sad. We have been home together for over four years now. We have spent our time at the park, zoo, aquarium, beach, playgroup, Gymboree, doing anything and everything we felt like. That's all going to start to change now. Anything we schedule has to be in the afternoon because every morning will be spent with his teacher, not with me. Then next year he'll start Kindergarten and we'll only have summers, weekends, and vacations from then on. Where did the time go?

The Nudist

Even though Nicholas demands privacy in the bathroom at home, he doesn't seem to think much about it in public. He is willing to change into his bathing suit any where, any time, no matter who is looking. He also likes to go on trees inside of in the bathroom when he can. You would think that I could be in the bathroom brushing my teeth but that's just not what he wants. Aunt Wendy thinks we need to be more careful because she has heard about people getting fines for letting their kids be nude in public. I just can't control it! I am going to start working on it though!

What is this mama?

While at Forest Park in Massachusetts, Nicholas picked up a pinecone and said, "What is this, mama?" At first I was surprised by the question but as I thought about it I realized that we don't have those in Florida. I told him it was a pinecone and proceeded to put it in the stroller. When we found another, he put that one in to. So impressed with the pinecones was he that when I threw them out of the stroller on the sidewalk at the airport, he put them back in without me knowing. The security guard asked if I wanted to keep them when we went through. Nicholas shouted yes and so back they went into the stroller!

Tickets

Nicholas has fallen in love with the words poop, pee, and penis. He puts those words into everyone single sentence he says, it doesn't seem like those words are ever going away. So my friend Patty, whose husband is a detective, has told Nicholas that if he keeps saying those words he will get a ticket from Mr. Steven. That Patty is a genius I tell you! All I have to say is, "Do you want me to call Mr. Steven?" The magic takes place and instantly Nicholas stops for at least an hour or so!

Bathtime

Nicholas and Christopher were in the tub tonight when Nicholas said, "Oh, this is the life, relaxing at Bumbus Beach."

The Basketball Star

Today was Nicholas' second basketball game and he is quite the player! He runs back and forth across the court with his team and I even saw his hands up once while playing defense. He is still working on mastering shooting the ball in the hoop and his dribbling consists of one dribble and then a sort of throw but we're working on it! Even Michael Jordan had to start somewhere!

Thanks

"Mom, what is that smell?"
"I don't know, I don't smell anything, please go to sleep."
"Mom, what is that smell? Did you have stinky gas?"
"No, Nicholas, please go to sleep."
"Oh, wait, it's your breathe."

The Garbage and the Fork

Nicholas had lots of trouble following directions today. So tonight when he put a toy in his mouth after I had just asked him not to and threatened to throw it away, I took it. He was convinced that I threw it in the garbage and started screaming and crying. Finally he stomped off into the kitchen and I started to play with Christopher. I heard the silverware drawer open but didn't think much about it until I heard the top to the garbage can open. I turned around and Nicholas was using a fork to pick through the garbage and look for his toy!

Skating Lessons

Nicholas has his first day of skating lessons tomorrow. He is so excited to learn how to ice skate and play hockey. I think he thinks they are the same thing. It will be interesting to see how much he likes taking lessons as opposed to us holding onto him . . .

Ice Skating

We went ice skating with Steven and Lori and Nicholas absolutely loved it! He can't wait to start lessons so I am going to start him next week! He lasted two hours at the skating rink, I though for sure we would be leaving after about 15 to 20 minutes! He held onto me, Steven or Lori and we just kept on going! He was pushing his feet and gliding, he was a natural!

The Pool Party

The playgroup came over today to enjoy our pool and have a little lunch. I was very impressed with the way Nicholas shared his toys with everyone. I guess the more kids there are the easier it is to share. Patty made the best strawberry salad, too. It was exactly like the one we have at Old Town Pizza. She is amazing in the kitchen! It is going to be so sad when school starts this year and our playgroup is over. We have been meeting every Friday for almost three years now. We are really going to miss everyone!

Our Newest Pet

Lauren and Nicholas found a worm in the yard yesterday and decided it would make a great pet. So Nicholas put it in a tupperware container, Lauren poked holes in it, and we had a new pet. Right before Nicholas went to bed last night, I suggested he let it go but that was not happening! So he put some grass in there for the worm to eat or use as a bed. This morning when we woke up I could see that the worm was dead. I told Nicholas that I didn't think the worm was still alive but he picked it up and said it was fine. The next thing I know, Nicholas is sitting on the couch with the worm next to him on the arm of the couch, watching TV together. All I can say is yes, I made him wash his hands several times.

The Lizard

Nicholas and Sebastien found a lizard on the porch today. This would have been a normal occurance except for the fact that they decided to pick it up by it's tail and let it's huge body dangle in the wind. As they passed it back and forth, oh yes, Nicholas was part of this passing back and forth to my complete shock, the boy who hates all creatures, a small part of the tail breaks off in Nicholas' fingers and the lizard flops to the ground with a horrible thud noise. Nicholas begins to scream and flings the tail while Sebastien grabs the lizard by what is left of the tail and continues to inspect it. I think we know which child has a father who loves snakes!

Snergle

Nicholas loves swimming and has to wear goggles this year. I bought him a snorkel to use and every time he asks me to help him put it on he says, "Mom, can you put my snergle on me?" It just cracks me up every time I hear it! I keep trying to get him to say snorkel but it just comes out snergle no matter what!

Bugs

It's that time of year when those love bugs come out to torture us. And I do mean torture. If one so much as goes near Nicholas, there is screaming, yelling, and running. His teacher even mentioned how much he hated the love bugs out on the playground. Then when one made the horrible mistake of flying into our car, there was crying, screeching, and I thought he was going to try and jump out his window. He was so scared of this harmless flying love bug that I had to pull over and get it out of the car. He wanted to get out of the car and wait beside it while I worked on getting the bug out. I made him stay in his seat and listened to more screaming and crying before I could get it out. I can't wait until the love bugs are gone again!

A Very Special Mother's Day

Although this was our first with just me and the boys, I couldn't have asked for a better day. I enjoyed with Muffins with Mom, which was special all in itself, plus there were other surprises in store for me. Jason took Nicholas to Joanne's and they bought me a few scrapbooking items which Nicholas picked out. My terrific friend Rhonda bought chocolate covered pretzels from our new chocolate store for me from the boys. (I do suspect, however, that she may have been trying to sabotage my Weight Watchers diet.) Then my baby brother sent a beautiful flower arrangement from him and the boys. What a great brother I have! Belated Happy Mother's Day everyone, then again, shouldn't EVERY day be Mother's Day??

Muffins with Mom

Today was Muffins with Mom at Nicholas' school. He brought my muffin and juice to me at our table and didn't spill! Then he went to get some for himself. We ate together while he talked to the other kids and gave them high fives. The his teacher, Mrs. Hight had all the kids stand up and sing us songs. She played a "Guess the Mom" game where the kids described their moms, she read what they said, and then gave us a picture with the information on it. It was so cute! Nicholas thinks I am only four years old and that I am the most beautiful in the morning. Then he gave me a flowers made out of handprints all wrapped up like a bouquet. It was the most special day!

Spike

Nicholas had his haircut today and he wanted it spiked like Steven, Conner, and Josh have theirs. So she cut it super short and put gel in it to spike it up. Then we had to go to CVS to buy gel for his hair so we can spike it every morning. Sometimes I can't believe he's only four!

The Sweet Talker

"It is so beautiful outside I can't even look at it." "You are beautiful mom." "Hannah is so beautiful mom." "It's OK, baby, it's OK, don't cry, I'm right here." "Kiss his little feeties mom so he'll laugh." "I love you, Alli." "Where is my hawk today, mom? Why isn't he on my swingset?" "Why is that baby still crying? I can't stand the crying!" "That's a great idea, mom." "Tell the baby that his big brother is right here." "Tell the baby that I am eating breakfast." "Tell the baby that we are going . . . " "Tell the baby . . ."

No Training Wheels!

Ever since Sebastien mastered riding his bike without training wheels Nicholas has been determined to ride his without them either. I decided to take the training wheels off the smallest bike he has, which Nana and Poppy gave to him when he was 18 months, and he has been trying and trying to balance. The funny thing is that he absolutely will not let anyone hold the back of the bike so he can get his balance. Today he let Kristyn, because she talk him into anything, including potty training, and now he is going pretty far without falling. He practiced all afternoon while waiting for his dad to pick him up. I just can't believe the things these kids can do. If it weren't for Sebastien and Kristyn Nicholas would still be wearing diapers and riding a big wheel!

Under the Sea

We are back at the Y and Nicholas loves playing on the equipment with the big kids. After my class, I pick him up and leave Christopher in the nursery, and we go out to the pool so Nicholas can swim for a little while. He absolutely loves it! He tell everyone that will listen what his name is and shows them how he can go under the sea. Toni was with us yesterday and kept yelling to her to watch what he could do. I can't wait until our pool heats up, he will be in there and exhausted every night!

Easter

Nicholas had a fantastic Easter with Nana, Uncle Markie, Christopher, myself, and some old friends. He just had to put out an apple and cookies for the bunny the night before. We couldn't leave them in the house, they had to go outside the porch so that the bunny would be sure to see them! Luckily, the bunny was still hungry when he arrived here and was able to take a few bites of both. He also left an egg hunt out on the porch. Nicholas would have preferred for the eggs to be outside like at Sebastien's house but the bunny just didn't want any of the wild animals to eat the good stuff inside the eggs so the porch it was. I hope everyone enjoyed their Easter, too!

Sleeping Beauty

It is just about 8:00 on Tuesday morning. We should be in the car on our way to school but Sleeping Beauty will not wake up. I keep trying to wake him up but it's just not happening. He is in there snoring away!

New Friends

Nicholas made new friends in our neighborhood this weekend. There are two twin boys who live just a few houses away from us. They are identical and their names are Travis and Tyler. Nicholas spent almost the entire weekend running and riding his bike back and forth from their house. They played on the trampoline and in the dirt pile at the boys house, and then on the swingset and on all of Nicholas' ride on toys here. Nicholas passes out on the couch on Sunday night at 6 because he was so exhausted! They came over today to get him to come out and play. I am glad he has someone to play with, I can just sit outside and not have to amuse him!

To the Zoo with Auntie Moo

Today we visited the Zoo with Auntie Moo who is visiting us. Nicholas showed her the alligators and the manatees and then was ready to go. We tried to talk him into going to Africa and seeing the baby elephant but he was not having any part of that! Oh well, at least he let us eat lunch!

The Nickolodeon Hotel

Nicholas was just beside himself at the Nickolodeon Hotel in Orlando. It was the coolest place for kids! He swam in the pool, went down all the waterslides by himself, even the biggest one there! We met Spongebob, Dora, Wanda, and Cosmo. We saw Patrick but he couldn't stop to talk to us. His room even had bunkbeds with Spongebob and friends painted all over the walls! I think Nicholas had the best time of his whole life!

A Special Visit

This past weekend was spent with Great-Aunt Wendy and Great-Uncle Mike. Nicholas loved having them visit and taught Uncle Mike all about how drive the green tractor out back. We took Aunt Wendy to see the manatees and both of them to the zoo. He even spent one morning with them while I slept! We really miss them!

Is This Ever Going to End?

Well, I thought for a short moment that things were getting better around here but I was wrong. Last night Nicholas threw up in his sleep, we found the remains dried to him and his bed this morning. He has been coughing for the past two days. He had started to sound better. I truly want to know when this fun is going to end . . .

To The Trucks!

Since Jason was away last weekend, they didn't get to do their usual truck riding activities. So this weekend they more than made up for it by leaving at 10 in the morning and not coming back until 6 last night! They even went and bought a go cart in blue to ride at the shop. I am wondering if these toys are really for Nicholas or Jason?

Our Sick Little Guy!

Nicholas went to visit Dr. Ed yesterday to find out what was going on with this fever and cough he couldn't shake. Turns out he has bronchitis, an ear infection, and strep throat. He is going to have to have his tonsils out. We are going to wait until this summer because there is just too much going on right now. Plus he is going to be cranky for about ten days and I just don't want him to miss school. Poor little guy!

Upper Respiratory Infection

Nicholas has a cold and an Upper Respiratory Infection. He is not sleeping through the night along with his brother and so as a result neither am I! At least Nicholas has cough medicine with codeine in it, not that it makes sleep through the night but at least he is more comfortable. Those preschool germs - why can't parents keep their sick kids home?

What Next?

We have almost made it through the weekend without Jason. Nicholas has only asked a couple hundred times instead of the the thousands he usually does, where his daddy is. The only problem now is that he is coughing and his nose is stuffy. I can hardly wait for the baby to get it. We have been waiting for Uncle Markie to come so I can go to Walmart and get medicine. We have about a hundred different kinds of Tylenol but nothing for colds or coughs! I am keeping my fingers crossed that we don't have to miss school this week!

Where's Daddy?

So Jason has to go out of town until Monday and here I am with two children, a dog, and fish. I wanted Jason to tell Nicholas that he was leaving but he decided that I should do it once he was gone. As you can well imagine, this went over like a ton of bricks. Nicholas threw himself all over couch, while I was right next to him holding the baby mind you, and cried and screamed that he wanted his daddy. In the middle of flinging himself around, he ended up on the floor face down with a bloody nose. That's right, double the fun for mommy. Now he was not only throwing a fit but also bleeding. Then to top it all off the baby started screaming. How many more days until Monday??

We're In!

We have been waiting to hear since last Friday whether or not Nicholas was accepted to St. Stephen's Catholic School. The wait was like torture. We tried to follow the directions to find out what was happening but it seemed that everyone had a different story. Finally, this morning we received our call that he is in! I was waiting on pins and needles because Deanna and Kristyn had already received their calls and I was thinking poor Nicholas was going to be somewhere by himself! That would have been fine after a few weeks, but the first few weeks of school next year would have been torture without his Bash there! Now I am keeping my fingers crossed that we like it there enough to stay for Kindergarten . . .

Award Winner

Nicholas won an award at his school for being a good citizen. I went to "Chapel" this week to see him receive it. His teacher said that he is very caring and a great helper in class. She also said that she loves when he has to "smooch" me goodbye in the morning. She even mentioned the baby and how well he is adjusting and what a good big brother he is. We're so proud of him!

Back to School

Nicholas is so excited to be back in school after being off for three long weeks. He missed school so much he would make me pretend to be Mrs. Hight a hundred times a day. He also did his "homework" all vacation long which consisted of drawing with markers in a Spongebob coloring book. He's too much!

A Real Trooper

Poor Nicholas has been through a lot since the baby was born. I haven't been feeling good and my mom is here again to take care of all of us. Nicholas was at Kristyn's all day yesterday and then was sent off to Gymboree today so my mom could have a break and I could take a nap. He is being so good despite all of the trauma in his life! I guess this is just the first thing on his list of complaints for his future therapist . . .