Andrew Starts Marching Band (July 25, 2023)

Poor Andrew had and insane summer. After spending most of his summer in Utah, then helping his grandparents pack up their house to sell it (in Las Vegas with 110-115 degrees heat!) he jumped on a red eye and headed back to VA to start marching band. He was seriously dragging and I'd find him sound asleep in random places at home. 

I think he thought marching band was going to be a cake walk - but quickly found out they mean business! 8am-4pm 5 days a week in the heat, outside, carrying his massive sousaphone. He would come home every day starving, tired, and sore. 

"Mom, I'm not tired, I'm just going to veg for a bit....."

5 minutes later.....

Doesn't he look so handsome in his uniform?! They had pictures done the first week of school. His hair is getting crazy long!  And he learned "whites" (the clothes they wear under their uniform since they all get dressed in the band room) are very important to remember....

Nick Rides a Bike! (Aug 12, 2023)

We have another bike rider! Nick is four years old and has been riding his balance bike since he was 2. When he got this bike he just jumped right on, needed a little help getting rolling - then took off! He went up and down the driveway, even turned! Braking is still a little iffy, but give him another day or two and he will be a pro! And yes, he has a helmet and he wears it.

Kallie's First Quilt (Aug 1, 2023)

 One big item on Kallie's before college bucket list was to make a quilt. I love making quilts, but haven't in a few years because of moving, babies, life, etc. I was just happy I could remember how to set it up and found all the parts! We had purchased all the supplies months ago, and it has just been hanging out in the basement. One day we got energy and decided today was the day!

Kal's a natural. Once we got the quilt on the frames and pinned down, I showed Kal how to tie one or two and she was on a roll! Kal brought down her laptop, turned on Bones, and was off to the races! We got the whole quilt tied in a day and a half (this one is a king size). Nick really wanted to help, but was just a little too short, but Zack joined in with us!

Someone was so excited to cuddle up in her new blanket she couldn't wait till it was all tied and quilted. Finally, we did the last stitch! She (and her back) were thrilled!

We got the sides trimmed and pinned and then she was off to sew it. She was so excited to cuddle up with her blanket and read a book....unfortunately Zack beat her to it....

Don't feel too bad for her though - between getting her wisdom teeth out, having to sleep on the couch, late night movies, and Sunday naps - she's had her fair share of blanket time...

Kallie's Last Sunday (Aug 13, 2023)

Today we had a sad moment. We drove to church the last time with Kallie in the car. She leaves early Wednesday morning to start her college adventure. I'm not ready for this! What am I going to do with just four boys at home!?!

 

Markers=Joker Face (Aug 13, 2023)

I don't know why Xander does this. Every time he gets access to a marker, pen, sharpie - anything he draws on his face. I don't know if he thinks he is putting on makeup or just making himself beautiful. Oh this boy.....

 

OBGYN

***As told by my friend Lindsay***

 The other day Zack and his friend Shelby were talking about what they wanted to be when they grew up. Shelby tells Lindsay she wants to be an OBGYN, and if that is too much school then she'll be a NICU nurse. Lindsay asked Zack what he wants to be - he says a motor-cross rider. 

Shelby then looks at Zack and asks: "Zack, do you even know what an OBGYN is?

Zack: "Something to do with Star Wars?"

Lindsay completely lost it! I see where he's coming from though.....

Update: Zack now knows an OBGYN is a doctor who delivers babies - and not just Star Wars ones ;)