The Quiet is Almost Deafening...

Do you hear that? Whats that sound? Is there a sound? NO!!! What an amazing thing to hear.. Nothing, nothing at all. 7yo is at school while the new baby, 3yo and mom all sleep on the couch. The silience is amazing... I will have to wake 3yo soon since he has a play date down the street. For now I am enjoying the "Sound of Silence."

I have been able to do a little blog Hopping while I eat lunch and will soon get some work done. Having the time to myself in the middle of the day is AMAZING!!!

Pictures... Well I did take pictures of the three of them on the couch, but since I like being married I will not post them. If it was just the boys sure, but with mom in the picture too I think she would not take kindly to how it turned out...

The 5

1. Quiet - free, or comparatively free, from noise


2. Silence - absence of any sound or noise; stillness.


3. Alone - separate, apart, or isolated from others


4. Free Time - time available for hobbies and other activities that you enjoy


5. Sigh- to let out one's breath audibly, as from sorrow, weariness, or relief.

Daily Observation: Having a house with 3 boys and mom home on leave is rarely quiet... Until now...

The Age of Unreason...

It Seems to me that 7 1/2 is "The Age of UnReason"

"Please stop putting that in your brothers face, um now...stop, please stop... STOP IT!!!"

"Stop watching TV and get your homework done, um now, stop, get your rear upstairs now, go, stop watching Tv and move it!"

Seems to me that as of late my 7.5 yo is either going completely deaf or just plain ignoring me.  I try to be as calm as possible, but after repeating myself a dozen time I strat to get frustrated...  Hopefully this will be short lived.

7.5 Birthday Party...

Since my two older boys have summer birthdays they really do not get to celebrate at school like the other kids.  Well my sons teacher celebrates 1/2 birthdays so today was that day.  We brought in treats, he got special school gifts as well as mention over the loud speakers that it was his 1/2 birthday.  I have to admit this is a very good thing and made his day.

3yo did pretty good for most of the day, but by late afternoon he started to get over tired and the tears began to flow.  His toys and everyone paid the price for his lack of sleep with a few good yelling sprees as well as some Hot Wheels Shot Put...

The 5

1. Subway - Mmmm I know some people like the Toasted place and other places, but I actually enjoy Subway.   The Roasted Chicken Breast Sub is my Favorite... Did not cook dinner tonight instead made a trip to Subway.


2. Baby Laundry Killer - Well it has not taken long for the baby to go through outfits faster then a teenage girl trying to decide what to wear.  Wash Wash Wash...


3. Ice Cold -50 the other day and -3 this morning and -35 with Wind Chill... OUCH!!!


4. 3yo Shower - 3 yo after screaming he hates showers showered tonight.  And Wow he loved it!


5. Couch Pass Out - 3yo Not me... Granted I think that happened to me yesterday.  He fell asleep on the couch so I had no fights with bedtime.  Just carried him to bed and tucked him in.  He woke long enough to smile at me...

Daily Observation: When your coat CRACKLES it is COLD!!!

Baby in Crib on 1/29/08

Early To Bed...Ummm Yeah...

Well the boys got to bed pretty much on time tonight and I am going to be getting in bed shortly myself. After being up until 1:00 with a baby sleeping on me I am about to crash. It is wonderful to have the little man here, but the lack of actual sleep is rough.

Things that have changed since last Monday...

• 3yo is sleeping later... (WOW)


• 3yo and 7yo seem to be playing a little better again


• 3yo is becoming more independent


• 3yo and 7yo are listening WORSE


• Our Sleep is disrupted every 3 hours rather then 5..

Something I find rather funny. Growing up I would give my mother a hard time for calling my 2 brothers and I by the wrong name... Heck I have even been called a few dogs names. I have found myself the last few days calling everyone by the wrong name.. Including the dogs!

I will try to keep my posts at least daily. I have some plans for a podcast soon as well as getting more pictures up, but with a baby not quite 9 days old time is not always on my side.

Be Well, Read Well and remember that a good fart joke can make even the crankiest boys laugh...

Getting Back to "Normal"

Well "Normal" is a relative term and when you talk about relatives nothing is normal.  Yesterday was the beginning of the first full week with the baby home.  Schedules are getting back on track and the boys are settling back in their "routine."  With 3yo at preschool it has been strange to have the house back to the peace and quite of a regular Tuesday.  I think the last few days the wife really has gotten a feel for how isolated it can be staying home.  Not seeing other adults other then me is a major adjustment.  By the time she adjusts she will be back at the office.  What is great is here office is so close she plans on coming home for lunch during the week.

7yo is back in his forgetful mode.  He was doing pretty good, but now that things are back on track it is like his mind just wanders more again.  Working on a list or some kind of way to have him get used to focusing on the tasks at hand.  Unfortunately for him he inherited my forgetfulness.  I can remember extreme details, but when it comes to remembering the little things... Well not so good.  If my head was not attached I would leave it everywhere.

The 5

1. RV - We watched the movie RV last night with Robin Williams.  It was fun, but no where near his best work.  It was well worth the retail fee of $0.00


2. Dad the Bed - Last night after eating Baby was a bit restless so I held him and he fell right asleep on my chest.  I am sure my breathing as well as my heartbeat comforted him.  He ended up staying there for a few hour because every time I moved him he would get restless again.  So since I did that the wife was able to get some much needed sleep, at least for a few hours.


3. Laundry Monster Won - Well yesterday sometime when I going in and out of the laundry room I must have bumped a basket sitting on the washing machines hitting the button turning it off.  So when I went to change the load much later it was stopped full of water... "Soak Cycle" I guess...


4. Pre-School Registration - Registration for next year is on Monday.  I want 3yo in the M-W-F MORNING class so I am going to get there EARLY!  Since the wife is home this will be a bit easier.


5. Crazy Temps - Well today it is about 45 degrees, but by later tonight it will be down in the low teens and maybe single digits... Snow, Defrost, WATER, ICE, Snow Again...

Daily Observation: Things move a little slower without sleep...

One Week Old Today...

It has been one week since our new little man arrived.  It is hard to believe he is here with us now.  Everyone is adjusting well and we have made efforts to make the boys feel special with the new arrival.  Things done to help in the past week..

Tuesday

• Took 3yo to see mom while 7yo was at school.  This gave him much needed time with just mom


• Went shopping for a couple toys as "Gifts" from the baby.  Hot Wheels Track for 3yo and Legos for 7yo.  This was very exciting for both of them.


• Packed Dinner and a Movie for the boys and went to the hospital to do "Dinner and a Movie" with mom.  Really Big Hit!

Thursday

• Brought a picture of the new baby to Preschool so 3yo could be the happy big brother.

Saturday

• Let 3yo stay with mom and baby while 7yo went to swimming.  3yo again was able to have some special time with mom.


• Took 7yo to Lunch after swimming.  A little golden arches and time with just Dad.


• Went shopping for diapers and the like...Brought 7yo and let him spend serious time looking at toys and video games.

Sunday

• Spent a very long time sledding on a small hill at the end of the block.  Both boys had a blast and got some much needed outside time.  By the end of the sledding adventure both boys were so tired I ended up pulling them home in the sled.

I just wish we had the time to do even more with the big kids.  I am going to do at least a couple special things with the boys each week that puts the focus on them only.  This way they will not feel the baby is getting more attention then they are.  Balance will probably be the key.

The 5

1. Warm-Up - Last Monday it was -6, but today it is 35 already... What a difference a week makes here.  Well actually a couple days...


2.  Sleep in 3's - 3 Hours that is... Baby is doing really well, but that means up every 3 hours not two.  He needs to eat all the time.


3. Laundry Monster Grows - My biggest Nemesis is the dreaded Laundry Monster.  Always growing and always fighting.  Now my enemy has a new source for it's evil power...Baby Clothes...  The War Wages On...


4. Balance of Power - The balance of power has now shifted.  We now have 3 kids so we are outnumbered... As long as the kids don't realize that...


5. Little tiny Diapers - I forgot how small newborn diapers are. With the baby also only 7.6 which is a bit less then his brothers we will have the little diapers a little longer.

Daily Observation: The most difficult thing for a baby... Ummm Gas!  The funniest thing for two older boys with the baby... Ummm Gas!

"The 5" My Three Sons Edition...

I do my regular "The 5" feature with most of my posts. On occasion I miss a few and on occasion I do a "Special Edition" of "The 5"

So tonight's special edition is "My Three Sons"

1. 8 to 4 - My three sons are basically 7.5, 3.5 and 5 Days... This makes the oldest to youngest almost 8 years and they will all be 4 years apart in school. When the oldest graduates High School, the Middle will be graduating 8th Grade. Then the same goes from middle to youngest.


2. Bodily Functions - Nothing like having three boys to encourage your own childless behavior when it comes to Burps, Farts, Peeing and Pooping... Nothing says I love you like a well timed burp or fart...


3. Cool Toys - The wonderful thing about having three boys is all the wonderful toys. Starting early the toys are simple, but still entertaining. As the boys get a little older they get into Cars, Trucks, Dinosaurs...Still older Legos, Action Figures and Army Men...Still older... VIDEO GAMES!!! Did someone say Wii!!!


4. Being Rambunctious - The boys always play a little rough and focus on the thrill factor. Jumping down stairs, having sword fights, leaping off playground equipment, throwing ball (at eat other) Mud, Grass and Puddles... Being a boy is being rambunctious...


5. Sports - SO far without my encouragement 7yo has fallen in love with football. Football is really the only sport I watch and follow and now 7yo is following too...Granted he is a Packer Backer... 3yo has expressed interest in playing with the football and sitting with big brother and dad while the games are on... I am sur eit won't be long before the baby is watching too...

This week was a bit of a blur as we all start to get used to the new baby and he gets used to us. He has so far been a perfect little baby. Sleeps pretty good, eats well and can keep up with his brothers in the bodily function competitions... He has a Dr appointment today and all is well.

As for the other boys dealing with him... 7yo has been really good and helps when he can. He does at times show signs of wanting more attention, but he has been doing great. 3yo on the other hand has not been helpful and wants to make sure his place is still his. He wants to be the big boy like his brother, but at the same time he wants to be the baby... Hopefully in the next few weeks he will get more comfortable with the baby and himself. Tonight I think I helped that step a little by allowing 3yo to "Hold" the baby. I held the baby in his arms and he was extremely excited and content...

Daily Observation: Sleep in 2-3 hours bunches makes the following day a bit cloudy...

Weekend Blog Hoppers: Welcome to the party... I have a virtual case of "Goose Island 312" here for you... Enjoy. Tonight for obvious reasons I will not be out visiting much...

Home, Safe and Sound...

"As a father the most amazing moments of my life have been holding my boys for the very first time.  The looks of wonder and feelings of joy are overwhelming and can not be easily explained.  That instant of bonding forever will be embossed on our personalities connecting us in an immortal union."  - Todd  (AKA A Man Among Mommies)

Every once in a while it is good to quote yourself.  I think using this quote now will make the pain of writing the original article melt away a little bit.  You can read my original article HERE. (At Dadcenter)

Now that everyone is home safe and sound I think I can pass on how that first day went.  It was exciting if not surprising, but in the end completely amazing.

• Sunday Night...  Watched football with the wife and 7yo.  (See Tears of My Son) The wife joking made a few comments about the full moon.  Went to bed late figuring Monday would be another one of those days.


• 3:30 AM Monday 1/21/08... Wife stops my snoring and I am startled awake.  She says she has been up for an hour with contractions... DOUBLE-TAKE!!! How far apart? about 5 minutes...  At this point there is no need to panic so I get up, clean up and get dressed.  Contractions are still going, but wife is a little worried about false labor...


• 4:08 AM Monday 1/21/08... Call goes out to my parents.  They are our nighttime call and come out in about 30 minutes. Wife calls Doctor and Hospitalevents are set in  motion.


• 4:30 AM Monday 1/21/08... Put the wife's bag and camera in the van and start it up.  Get towel ready just in case and make sure everything is good.


• 4:40 AM Monday 1/21/08... Parents arrive, give basic notes and head to the hospital.


• 5:00 AM Monday 1/21/08... Walk into the ER at the Hospital and get brought up to the delivery area.


• 5:00 AM-8:45 AM 1/21/08... Uneventful labor and administration of epidural.


• 9:04 AM 1/21/08... Baby is born!!!!


• 9:10 AM 1/21/08... Held my new son for the first time.  Tears welled in my eyes as the realization of the joy has finally arrived.

The rest of the day was a bit of a blur.  After a little while with the baby and the wife still recovering he was whisked away to be cleaned up and warmed.  He was a little cold.  I spent the next couple hours getting wife settled and having breakfast together.  Was a little impatient, but someone was a little cold so we had to wait.  Once I got to spend a little more time with the baby I then had to go home and get his big brothers.  By Noon I was at home eating a slice of pizza and downing a major amount of Coca Cola...  My parents headed out after seeing a few pictures and then the boys and I went to the hospital.  They were so excited to see mom and their new baby brother.  7yo has been here once before and it was not long before he was holding his new baby brother.  3yo was a bit confused and excited at the same time.  After spending some time at the hospital it was finally time to head out.  I brought the boys home and then down to a neighbors house for a planned playdate.  3yo's little friend lives a few doors down and both boys went and played for a couple hours while dad finally showered and cleaned up.  By 6:30 3yo had passed out and by 7:30 7yo was in bed.  Before I knew it the house was quiet... Not for Long...

It's A Boy!!!

My third son was born this morning...

01/21/08 (20 Days Early)

9:04 AM

7 Pounds 6 Ounces

19.6 Inches



More Pictures HERE! 

Tears of My Son...

The Kick is up... It's Good! The NY Giants Beat the Green Bay Packers in overtime...  My son now feels what most adult men feel as their teams lose the big game.  My team missed the playoffs after losing in the Super Bowl last year...  I am a Bears fan, but my son likes the Green and Gold of the Packers.  Maybe it has to do with the fact his first football experience was to play on the Packers...

He Played safety and loved every minute of it despite being the smallest guy on the field most of the time.  I was an assistant coach and that experience has forever imprinted him with the Green Bay Packers. After a moment of realizing his team lost the tears began to roll and the only comfort was there is always next year... So to my little Packer Fan there is always next year.

This summer I told him I would drive him up to the Packer Hall of Fame and to see Lambeau Field.   I have been by there dozens of times during my old work life.

Haircuts and other childhood Torture...

The whining started the moment haircuts were mentioned. 7yo did not what his haircut or to take an early shower, but he had no choice. I cut both boys hair and they have my haircut, short! I told 7yo as soon as he can take care of his own hair he can have whatever hair style he wants. So once 7yo was done he hopped in the shower and was happy about it. 3yo fought hard and we even bribed him to sit still. This did not last for long and halfway through the cut he freaked out and started screaming and fighting every little thing. This made the cut nearly impossible to finish, but after a double team we were able to get his hair done. This is just one form of torture we put our children through. Can you believe I make the boys sit at the table to eat dinner? To top even that I will not let them have candy and sweets for dinner! Oh the Humanity! Then the final most amazingly terrible thing is I make them go to bed in clean PJ's!!! OH NO!!!

So now the boys have nice clean cut hair and I even took care of mine too. With mom ready to pop we need to be ahead of the game the best we can. We do not want to have missed our chance for a little while.

The 5

1. Camera - I have my camera with fully charged batteries as well as extras in my case so I can be ready at a moments notice to get pictures of the baby as soon as he arrives... Plus a little video of him probably rather mad when they clean him up...


2. Action Figures - Was looking at my sons action figures and he also has all my old Star Wars action figures as well. It is amazing how the new figures are so much better then what I had growing up. With the old ones the heads sometimes moved and the arms moved at the shoulders and the legs moved at the hip only. The new ones EVERY joint moves!!! (See Picture)


3. Blog Hopping - Looking forward to doing a little more hopping tonight after the football game and when the family is asleep.


4. Monday No School - Tomorrow 7yo is off from school so we will need to find something to keep the boys busy. I need to go to the grocery store, but after that it may be difficult with the very cold weather.


5. Cell - Listening to the Audio book and so far it is pretty good. I enjoy the end of the world stuff.

Daily Observation: Don't type blog posts when you are really tired. Typos!

Daily Picture.

• Left - Original Darth Vader from when I was a kid


• Center - Vader from the Early 90's


• Right - My sons Newer Vader...

Weekend Blog Hopping and Other Things Blogger Parents Do..

Well I just got involved with a new and rather entertaining activity from a fellow dad at Cre8Buzz... "Weekend Blog Hopping" My new friend BusyDad started this and I will let him tell you about it... From BusyDad

What is this ridiculousness?

This is classic "when life gives you lemons" lemonade. We've just spiked it with a healthy dose of Vodka. As parents, we no longer have a night life. Sure, a birthday bash here, a bachelor party there, but all in all, you can pretty much set your watch to the fact that we're home on weekend nights. We're also bloggers. Bloggers live and die by the mighty comment. The Weekend Blog Hoppers takes both factors into account and gives parent bloggers a reason to look forward to Friday and Saturday nights (after the kids are in bed).

What do you do?

The best way to describe this is a virtual night out. But instead of hopping from bar to bar with our friends, getting buzzed, getting feely and talking cheeky, we're hopping each others' blogs.

What's the point?

To have a good time, get to know other bloggers whose real-word weekend lives are just as uneventful as yours and build each others' ranking and traffic through comments.

How do you play?

1. Surf other Weekend Blog Hoppers' blogs and drop comments freely.


2. Sign your comments as your Weekend Blog Hoppers alter ego (mine is BuzzeeDad).


3. For any comments that you get from a fellow Weekend Blog Hopper, cut 'em a little slack because it's all in good fun. Don't read into it, don't get offended -- we're all friends just letting it all hang out, virtually (you can always edit and delete the next morning and pretend you never met).
   


4. Drinking while commenting is HIGHLY encouraged, but of course not required.


5. (Optional) Proudly display a Weekend Bloghoppers Badge on your blog and link it to this page. Badges can be found here.
   


6. Visit other cool bloggers who might have fun with this and recruit them for the movement.
   

So know I have found a organized way to spend countless evening hours checking on other parent bloggers. I have had a blast checking out blogs and have read some really funny and touching things.

The Cold is just too COLD!!!

Woke up this morning and checked the weather. "0" degrees with a -22 Wind chill. That is just too darn cold for me. I really hate Mid January and all of February here in the greater Chicago land area... 7yo had swimming this morning so I warmed up the for a while and the family piled into the van for the short trip to the pool. The wife wanted to come today since it may be her last day to join us for a while. With the baby due anytime everything is a bit short and she wants to get as much done as possible. I dropped 7yo, 3yo and the Wife at the door and then parked the van. That walk across the open parking lot was brutal. A few minutes prior to the end of class I ran out and warmed up the van and brought it to the door. This way the family would stay warm.

After the long fun day yesterday both boys were rather tired all day. They would be at each other in a moments notice and then happy 2 seconds later. The both ate rather well for a change, but really needed some down time.

As for me I spent some quality time looking at a bunch of other blogs in the Weekend Blog Hopper Group" What a great group of people...

Dogs and Cold

One of my very bright neighbors left his dog out this morning for way too long. The dog was barking to get in because it was DARN cold out. Let the little fur ball in. He finally let the dog in, but I think he should go stand outside for twenty minutes with nothing on and see how he likes it. My dogs were split on the weather. One dog is part Husky so he tends to enjoy the cold. My powder puff Pam/Mix runs out, does his thing and runs right back. All the while I think I catch the other dog laughing at him...

The 5

1. 0 is cold - I know a few fellow dads further up north that were hit with -20+ regular temps, but once you get to the "0" mark it is just plain cold!!!


2. Blog Hopping - What a blast!


3. Pancakes, Pancakes and Pancakes - The boys love it when I make Chocolate Chip Pancakes and today was a day for it. This is one of the few meals where I do not hear a complaint. 3 yo however really wanted them small... His wish was my command...


4. Harry Potter - 7yo is making his way through Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (Philosopher's Stone across the pond) I am so proud he has taken on that level of book. Especially since I have read them all and enjoy talking about the book with him.


5. Library Madness - I love going to the library and I typically run by after taking 3yo to preschool on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Well I had a couple movies due today so 7yo and I headed out and wow was it busy! I tend to borrow more movies then books, unless you count Audio Books... Great Selection and Free... Use your local resources...

Daily Observation: Cold weather makes some people drive even worse then normal.

Daily Picture: BLOG HOPPING!!!

Daddy and Six Boys!

The echoes in the house were almost deafening, the laughs, giggles and thumping of footsteps as 6 boys played in my house.  Two 3yo's, Three 7/8yo's and a Ten yo all making my house the place to be and be heard.  While I nodded, nearly napping, suddenly there came a tapping, As of some one gently rapping, rapping at my front door.  The sound of the boys drowned out the sound of my friend coming to pick up her 3yo son.  The 4 big boys were playing with the Wii and the 3yo's were running two hot wheels racetracks.  As I open the door my friend was shocked by the sounds coming from the house.  As she came in she saw the big kids playing Wii tennis laughing and giggling and knew where all that racket came from.  The little guys were nearly perfect for the few hours they played together.  She asked her son if he had a good time and he said yes running off to go play some more.  She practically had to drag him out the door.  She was very thankful for the drop off play date since she was stuck at a thing for work.  The boys played so well together I would do it again any time.

Now I was down to just 5 boys playing in the house, but my 3yo started to get involved with the big kids.  The Wii was put away and the light sabers came out as 3yo took on 4 bigger kids.  I had to put an end to this rather fast since I could see it getting way out of hand in minutes...  So the boys all went downstairs to play in the finished "Toy Basement"  As I walked by the door I could hear laughing, giggling and cheering and the sound of the Shake And Crash cars colliding and crashing.  I walked down and peaked around the corner to see 4 older boys and one 3yo playing with the Fisher Price Shake and Crash Racetrack and laughing uncontrollably.  I found it extremely amusing to see thess big kids so engrossed in the 3yo's toys!

The one friend had come over on the bus from school because of early dismissal and the fact mom and dad would not get home in time.  I have offered to help anytime since I am home.  When our friend arrived to pick up the 8yo the house was the biggest madhouse of the day.  The boys were "picking" up toys, more like attacking each other with anything they could find and the wife was just getting home.  When our friend saw all the kids he was surprised I would do that and felt bad his was here too.   I laughed and said it was great fun.  The other boys came here because his son was here.  In the end all the kids had a blast on a very cold winter day.  However I do have to admit an afternoon with6 very active boys really wears a dad out...

The 5

1. Wii Tennis x 4 - Watching the 4 boys play Wii tennis and laughing was great!  Since they all have the Wii one of the other boys brought over his controllers too.  They were getting so animated and practically colliding with each other while laughing hysterically.


2. 3yo x 2 - Having the little guys around for an hour or so before the big kids came around was lots of fun.  So many cars and only 4 hands...


3. Simpson's Movie - We watched that tonight and it was really funny.  I thought it would be a bit funnier, but still a lot of fun.


4. Brady Bunch With More Energy - Having basically 3yo Twins, 7yo Triplets and a 10yo around made me respect those with lots of kinds close together even more.  I don't know if they are saintly or just plan nuts...


5. Deep Freeze - It is really cold right now and supposed to be a high in single digits tomorrow.  I hate the cold...

Daily Observation: The noise from 6 boys increases exponentially as the minutes pass.

Daddy Daycare...Really?

As I write that title I can just about feel many At Home Dads cringe...  The only thing worse is the dreaded "Mr Mom."  I am not Eddie Murphy nor am I Michael Keaton, but I do have one thing in common with the characters they portrayed...  I am an At Home Dad!  Now tomorrow I might be a little closer to the Daddy Daycare thing since I will not only have my boys, but will be watching two other boys in the afternoon.

A Preschool mom called me yesterday and asked if it would be possible for me to watch here 3yo son while she went to a training thing for work.  She works at night so not to have to worry about this, but the training meeting is during the day.  They have been here once before and we have been to their house for a party so 3yo friend should be just fine.  Plus he has stayed at some other friends houses when mom was in the main training for work.  So there is one extra kid for the day.  I am sure that the boys will have a blast.

This morning I received a call from a mom of one of my 7yo's friends.  We have been friends for a while now and the boys are always playing together.  They only live a couple miles away so it is really easy to get together.  We tomorrow is early dismissal at school and both of them work around the kids schedules.  Well tomorrow they will not be able to get out so they asked if 7yo friend could come over to play for a few hours.  I said not a problem and have offered this to them on a couple occasions.  I am home and typically most of my work is done in the early morning and evenings.

So tomorrow this house should be really lively especially since it is supposed to be darn cold tomorrow.  3yo comes over at about 12:30 and the older boys should be home sometime before 2:00, just in time to rescue to 3yo's from each other.

The 5

1. Breathe Right Strips - I admit it... I snore!  Granted this is what my wife and kids say, but I am not sure I believe it. :)  So in an attempt to help with my loud booming roars in the night I picked up some Breathe Right Strips and after a couple days there is a difference!!!


2. The Cell - My next audio book is by Stephen King.  Will see how it is.  I have really been enjoying listening while I get house stuff and work done.


3. Brother In Law Moving to California - He is 20 and normally I would think this would be a good thing.  However he has trouble doing anything for himself... I hope it turns out well, but I will not hold my breath!


4. Sopranos Season 6 Pt II - Just started watching the final 9 episodes.  Will probably make it through them in a week or too. I know the end, but getting there is all the fun.


5. 14 Days and Counting - Well the baby will be here no more then 14 days from now!  I am excited, but at the same time rather unfocused on everything else!!!  Can't wait to hold him for the first time!!!

Daily Observation: When a 3yo is tired even good things can be too much...

Daily Photo: Wii !

Dinosaur Day

Roar, Rumble, Stomp, Stomp, Stomp...  This week at preschool the subject matter is Dinosaurs. Homework was to color and cut out a Dinosaur Hat and bring something Dinosaur related to class.  So my little Dino-Boy has the homework hat, a big toy Dinosaur and a Dinosaur shirt for class.  He is so excited about preschool and would love to go everyday.  Bringing the Dinosaur and having a matching shirt was the icing on the cake for him.  When we got to class he was so excited to show everyone his toy, hat and shirt.

Hot Wheels Traffic Jam

3yo and I lined up most of his small Hot Wheels size cars. 324 in this traffic jam with a bunch MIA... He has around 350, just a few in a couple years. Some of the cars in the Traffic Jam date back to me. Most of my old cars are in my grandmothers basement for all the kids to play with.

Is It Bad To Be An At Home Dad?

As a new year arrives I find myself once again reading and hearing things about peoples perceptions of At Home Dads. You would think that being 2008 people would be more open to "Alternative" parenting. I am a man does this automatically mean I can not be a good father to my children or do I need to make lots of money to prove my worth to my children. My kids have little concept of money and to them I am DAD! I am home when they need me, I cook, clean, read books, play cars, legos and video games. Due to many bumps in the road and the fact that my wife is brilliant she quickly became the one with the better income, benefits and marketability. Our choice to have someone home with our kids was not a simple one, but we dreaded having daycare once number 2 was born. So here I am 3 years later very happy with who I am and what I due despite many people in the public looking down on a Dad that stays home.

I still get the "look" from moms at the stores, library and even the kids activities. I was starting to wonder at one point weather I had some strange deformity or something that my wife was being kind to not mention. Then I figured it out! I must have "Cooties!" At the same time however the moms that have not been afraid to talk to me because they can't believe I have cooties have become friends. I have even dare I say it had moms other then my wife here for play dates! Oh The Humanity!

To those men out there trapped in jobs working 50+ hours a week, traveling and hardly seeing their children, but somehow think I am not a successful man, HAH! I would not give up what I have for any high paying job! If I am away from the kids for any period of time I go nuts. My job being Dad is more demanding as well as more rewarding then any "Real Job."

What Many Believe about At Home Dads

• Sleeps In Late


• Watches TV all Day


• Is Lazy


• Can't Get A Job


• Is not very Manly


• Has "Cooties"


• Must be strange


• Does Not Know What Real Work is


• Is Kept

The Truth About At Home Dads

• Is up at the crack of dawn with the little ones, up in the middle of the night and does not have time to get more sleep.


• The TV is only good when you need a little while to get something done without a child in tow. The kids in front of the TV for one show will be a distraction for at least 10 minutes... Just enough time to change a load and put dishes away


• Lazy!!! My day starts the minute the kids wake up and ends when I finally get to bed. Even then the odds are I will be up at least once with a kid in the middle of the night. 50 Hour work week would be short... 168 Hour Work Week Here!!!


• Can't Get A Job, Just because I am at home does not mean I can't get a job or I don't have a job. I personally work for a software company and am full time Dad...


• Is Not Very Manly, Well say that to my face... As you look up to my Bald Head atop a very large frame standing 6'3". Most At Home Dads I know are more manly then the Business men dads. As my friend with the Chainsaw to take a little off the top...


• Has Cooties... Well I must have them with how many women look at me. Or maybe they are just jealous I take such an active role in my child's development...


• Must Be Strange... Well you got me there!


• Real Work... HAH!!! Spend 7 hours cleaning the house with a 3yo in tow, while trying to make sure everything is perfect everyday so when your very pregnant wife goes into labor everything at home is perfect!


• Is Kept... If that's what you think having a positive relationship with a women is...

I guess a few things have gotten under my skin lately. More often then not I let all that just fly by, but once in a while it is good to put things on the table.

I am Dad and I love that I am Dad! Some days are pure bliss, while other days can try even the best of men. In the end I know that our children will grow up in a loving home and have someone here for them always. We are fortunate to be able to be in the position to have one of us home and I am fortunate that it is me.

I am Dad!

Roll with the Blogroll

Well now that I have my template issues resolved and hosting to my satisfaction I am focusing on adding people to my blogroll.  I have also been adding graphics and would be willing to add your appropriate link.  Parent and Family Blogs are most welcome.  I am also looking at spreading my wings into different communities so if you have something to share please do.   I know of so many different blogs and sites that I am having a difficult time getting the focus.

So let me know if you want to be added.  Also do not forget to add me to your lists as well...

5:45 by 5:45

Yesterday 3yo again had a play date and no nap. He has finally phased out the naps for the most part and adjusted to his new sleep pattern. Well last night while watching the football game 3yo sat on his mom and promptly fell asleep at 5:45 Pm... He was out cold so I picked him up and put him to bed. We were worried that he would be up at the crack of dawn since he went to bed so early. Well at 5:45 AM he walked into our room and then cuddled mom until her alarm went off and it was time for he to get up 30 minutes later. So he was pretty much out for 12 hours which for him is AMAZING!!! Tonight he did not go to sleep as early, but was out at 7:00... Hmm 7:00 to 7:00 would be nice!!!

Today we had a to go grocery shopping and do a bunch of little things around the house. He always has a good time at the store and was so excited to get some different shaped fruit snacks and Dinosaur Mac & Cheese...

7yo has been rather difficult as of late. He has been fighting going to bed and getting up when his brother does. This would not be bad if he was not still up at 9:30 at night. He said he was feeling left out in the morning so tonight he went to bed early and we will have no problem with him getting up with everyone else. The other issue with 7yo has been his overall attitude towards everyone. He has been mouthy and a bit whinny, but I have noticed a few other kids his age acting the same way.

Wife's Doctor Appointments. The wife is now at the weekly stage of Doctor appointments and was gone for a long while this evening. She came home around 4:45 and left for the Doctor at 5:30. After the non stress test as well as the regular appointment it was about 7:50 by the time she got home. Everything is good, but the doctor said they would monitor the baby and probably not allow her to go past Feb 1st. So if my little man is stubborn he will get evicted on the 1st. He is due one week later then that, but because he has been getting big and the risks we have had they want to make sure he is out healthy.

The 5

1. Wii Guitar Hero - Well I still think the game is just Simon on Steroids, but 7yo enjoyed it at the neighbors and will probably be on his wish list rather quick. Hopefully by the time he really wants it I can get a good deal on it.


2. One of the Last Days Alone - On Tuesday and Thursday 3yo has preschool from 9:30 to Noon which gives me a much needed break from both boys. Well since Feb 1st is the latest date for the baby that leave no more then 6 days with the little window to myself during the day.


3. Advanced Logistics -With 2 kids active in school and other activities having number 3 due will really challenge or skills in organized logistics. Having the right person here at the right time to help the boys while I go to and from the hospital. If the baby does come scheduled those logistics will be much easier to deal with. However he will probably be like his brothers and decide to want to come out in the middle of the night. All the grandparents work so that makes things a little more difficult. My brothers wife is at home and they only live a few miles from here so that is a good fall back position as are a couple neighbors depending on the timing.


4. Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles started last night and I was rather happy with it. The special effects are pretty darn good and so far the acting looks promising. Plus Summer Glau Rocks!


5. The Cold Is Back - Just in time for the baby to come the arctic chill has hit us once again. Cold...Brrrrrrr

Daily Observation: The Little Red Line on the Battery indicator on an iPod is a terrible thing while engrossed in a good book...

Sunday and some time without the kids...

Well the morning started a little later then normal, but the boys were really cranky. Especially Mr Moody 7yo. From the moment we were up he was focused on one thing...Being a cranky over tired mouthy boy... Luckily for him as well as us a friend called and invited him over to play. So right after the boys ate lunch we headed out to drop off 7yo. Once we were there 3yo was invited to stay as well and he jumped on the chance to play again with other boys. This gave the wife and I a chance to actually eat lunch and get a few errands done. With the baby due in the coming weeks the wife has been a little edgy from not only hormones and carrying the baby, but the stress and worry from all our past issues. Well it turns out that Culvers is the food that currently changes that mood. A nice Swiss Butter Burger and a Sundae makes everyone a bit less stress. After a nice lunch alone we headed out to get a few errands done and they went really quick not having the boys with us. I also took the time to see if I could find a few of the Cars Movie Cars 3yo did not have without him so I could put them away for a time when really needed. Like when the baby comes! Well I was out of luck and I am sure I will not get a chance to get out much without him again. I will have to see if there is something I can do to maybe have a little time to run around.

Football - How about them Cowboys... :P One of my least favorite team was nice enough to get beat today. Too bad for the defending Super Bowl champs as well. I like the Colts except when they play the Bears. So next week looks to have one really good game with the Packer and Giants and probably a Blowout with the Patriots and Chargers since todays game really beat up the Chargers.

The 5

1. Any Given Sunday - The playoffs are a time when the saying Any Given Sunday is really true.. (Or any given Sunday, Monday, Thursday, Saturday) The Cowboys came in with one of the best records in the league and the Giants the Wild Card team comes into Dallas and beats them. The Colts with everyone healthy lost to the Charges in Indy! Maybe next week the Chargers will pull it off again... (Unlikely)


2. Legos - The monster sort has made it through another color. Red! Just White, Gray and Black left in the main buckets. Then all the misc stuff floating around. The Black probably has as many legos as all the others combined. Up Next... White!


3. Flickr - Just set up an account for the new blog layout. I plan on doing a special baby page when the little one finally arrives. This way I can share the Joy!!!


4. Superbad - We watched the movie the other night and it was funny at times, but also just odd at others. One Word... "McLoven"


5. Bedtime Problems - 7yo is fighting bedtime even when really tired. We have had to make his bedtime really early in hopes of getting him to sleep at a reasonable time. 3yo has been so wiped out that by 7:00 he is out... Tonight before 6:00. No Nap and a TON of Playing has made him sleep so much better.

Daily Observation: No matter the answer you are always wrong when a pregnant women is in a bad mood.

Sleep, Swimming, Old Navy and Football.

This morning was unbelievable! 3yo actually slept through the entire night and did not get up until after 7:00 this morning. Two days in a row he has been really careful and waiting for us to get up. Yesterday I know he woke before 5:00, but he just got a few toys, a book and sat in bed. Once mom got up for the shower he then got out of bed. Well this morning he slept and then played with his cars in our room for a little while. He was very happy and had a great night sleep. Since he did not wake during the night I had a relatively good night as well.

Today was swimming for 7yo and he had a great time and did really well. The water was also at 86 degrees so the kids were very happy. The parents were all very warm, but no chattering teeth is a great thing.

After swimming we decided to stop by a few stores and Old Navy was first on the list. The boys both needed some additional clothes. Well they had a clearance sale that was 75% OFF!!! So we picked up clothes for now and later as well as some stuff for the wife and I. We spent a little over $100.00 and left with 5 FULL bags of stuff. This was a good day to shop.

This afternoon the boys played with a few neighbor boys and my son the Packer fan was excited since my neighbor is a Packer Fan. The wife stayed home and the boys and I went and played while watching the football game on the 72" HD Plasma. Great game and what a perfect setting for a playoff game in Green Bay... SNOW!!! That is how real football is played...OUTSIDE!!! Just wish it was my Bears playing outside!

The 5

1. Playoff Football - Again there were two really good games on. The end of season games and the first two weeks of the playoff have been rather exciting to watch.


2. Guitar Hero - Played around with that on the neighbors Xbox 360 and I still think it is the old game "Simon" with a rock beat. Was fun, but I think it could get old. 7yo wants it now for the Wii


3. Sopranos Season Six Part II - Well I was able to grab that today at the Library. Will be watching the final episodes this week. I know the end and want to see the filming to see what the deal is. Going to black as a reference to Tony getting whacked is cool.


4. Cold Is Coming Back - Today is supposed to be the last"Warm" day in a long while with arctic weather pushing back into our area starting this week. Brrrrrrrr...


5. Baby Soon!!! The countdown is still going... 27 days until the Due date, but my guess is less then 20 and he will be here.

Moved Hosts...

Well I have changed hosts. If you arrived here from some other external link or an outdates link please go to...

www.amanamongmommies.com

Cleaning, Audiobooks and At Home Dads...

Fridays are the day I spend doing most of the house work. It is the end of the week and 3yo is tired and wants to take it easy. Since I really have no place to go on Fridays it works out the best. It used to be really easy to clean since I had a service twice a month, but since my work has been cut way back I have the time to clean and no money to pay for someone else. Well today I did a few extra things trying to get ahead before the baby arrives. While I cleaned 3yo played cars, followed me around and watch some cartoons. I had an audio book playing on my iPod which made cleaning seem quicker. Michael Crichton's Prey is the current selection. I had no idea when I picked it up that the main character is an At Home Dad, granted not by choice and with a housekeeper. Still having the main character talk about some of the same issues that I face is rather fun.

The new blog look. I worked really hard on the last template to have the hosting of it have issues and cause the white block of death... After a very frustrating few days and even one day mainly unplugged it was time for a change. So here I find myself with a new home and so far so good. There are many things I like and only a few I do not like. The biggest issue for my is Font. I would need the CSS ad on to change that, and at this point not willing to do that. Granted I might if I really want to change my look more down the road. I had looked at many options and they were all about the same $85-$100 a year to have my site hosted. Here it is $10.00 for hosting my domain for the year, but I do not get the FULL set of options like I would hosting my own site. So far the basic 3 column template I chose is crisp and clean and appears on Firefox and IE...

The 5

1. WordPress - My New Home... So far so good...


2. Prey - Interesting audiobook by Michael Crichton. Having an At Home Dad as the main character is a nice touch for me.


3. Swimming - Well tomorrow we try for the 7yo's swim lessons again. Last week got canceled after someone got sick in the pool just before class.


4. Counting Down - The time for baby to come is getting really short... Feb 8th Due date, but probably he much sooner then that. The wife looks like she is ready to pop...


5. Legos - Been sorting through all the boxes of legos my mom left with me for the kids to use. We have had them for years, but when 7yo was younger my MIL and BIL mixed all the sorted legos together... What a pain. After ready about some good ways to sort them I have begun that task. So now it should be easier to play with the,

Daily Observation: When Life Gives you Lemons... Move to a different host...

New Look, New Location, New Year...

Well after having a ton of issues using different templates for blogger I decided it was time to make a change.  After working with wordpress for a couple days I transfered everything over and so far I am very happy.  The look will change as I get organized and understand all the features.  So far the way the templates and code works I like what I see.  So for at least the next year I am now being hosted on wordpress.

Thanks for dealing with the issues...

Still having issues with templates...

Well I decided to "Unplug" yesterday and only really do my work on the PC... Other then that I was away from it most of the day. I am having real problems with the template and will be making major changes again in order to fix the issue. I just wish I knew what the issue really was...

So the "White Block Of Death" will be there at least one more day...

Still having issues with templates...

Well I decided to "Unplug" yesterday and only really do my work on the PC... Other then that I was away from it most of the day. I am having real problems with the template and will be making major changes again in order to fix the issue. I just wish I knew what the issue really was...

So the "White Block Of Death" will be there at least one more day...

Hello world!

Welcome to WordPress.com. This is your first post. Edit or delete it and start blogging!

Template Issues...

Well it appears my template does not like to work all the time. Apparently it loads as a big white square instead of the entire page matching the banner up top with the torn edges...

Hmmmm

Template Issues...

Well it appears my template does not like to work all the time. Apparently it loads as a big white square instead of the entire page matching the banner up top with the torn edges...

Hmmmm

Change is Good

Well I guess what is good for politicians is good for me. With the new year it brings many things including a change to the blog. I have updated the overall look and I feel it is a little cleaner and more organized. I created a new banner for the header which includes another little person standing next to me. I had originally planned to wait until after he was born, but with how long it took me to get things organized I am glad I did it now.

I hope those that frequent my blog like the changes and are not to shocked by them. I have a few smaller changes in the works including "Button" links to many of my "Special Friends" and a few other surprises...

Be Well

Change is Good

Well I guess what is good for politicians is good for me. With the new year it brings many things including a change to the blog. I have updated the overall look and I feel it is a little cleaner and more organized. I created a new banner for the header which includes another little person standing next to me. I had originally planned to wait until after he was born, but with how long it took me to get things organized I am glad I did it now.

I hope those that frequent my blog like the changes and are not to shocked by them. I have a few smaller changes in the works including "Button" links to many of my "Special Friends" and a few other surprises...

Be Well

The 5

It has been a while since I just focused on my favorite feature "The 5" For any new readers it is my 5 random thoughts on 5 random things. Sometimes it has to do directly with my post, other times they come out of nowhere.

1. Change - The major buzz word in the political game at the moment. Obama was touting change from the beginning and it seems every candidate is touting it now as well. CNN even did a video segment on the term and how many times the candidates have said it.
2. Subprime - named word of the year by the American Dialect Society. It has become a very well known word now that the mortgage market associated with the term went downhill. My Work At Home Job is with a Mortgage Software company so the term has been something very familiar to me.
3. 2008 Elections - They are already shaping up to be interesting. This is honestly the first time I have actually been interested in many of the candidates and the election itself. the past few time there has been such a lesser of two evil approach it is nice to see some new blood.
4. Writer Strike - What can I say other then get something done. If the strike only effected the writers and the companies I would have no problem with it. However the strike like all strikes has collateral damage that people may not be able to recover from. What about the camera crews, makeup, wardrobe, logistic, gofers... that all worked on shows that are now not being paid. I want the writers to get a fair deal, but at the same time what about everyone else that is suffering.
   
5. Weather - Well the sudden heat wave after the cold snap and the new cold snap coming has caused some major weather related problems. A couple of communities not that far from her were hit by Tornadoes... I guess there are a bunch of videos of one of them touching down...
   

Daily Observation: Sleep...Yawn...Eye Rub... Goodnight!

The 5

It has been a while since I just focused on my favorite feature "The 5" For any new readers it is my 5 random thoughts on 5 random things. Sometimes it has to do directly with my post, other times they come out of nowhere.

1. Change - The major buzz word in the political game at the moment. Obama was touting change from the beginning and it seems every candidate is touting it now as well. CNN even did a video segment on the term and how many times the candidates have said it.
2. Subprime - named word of the year by the American Dialect Society. It has become a very well known word now that the mortgage market associated with the term went downhill. My Work At Home Job is with a Mortgage Software company so the term has been something very familiar to me.
3. 2008 Elections - They are already shaping up to be interesting. This is honestly the first time I have actually been interested in many of the candidates and the election itself. the past few time there has been such a lesser of two evil approach it is nice to see some new blood.
4. Writer Strike - What can I say other then get something done. If the strike only effected the writers and the companies I would have no problem with it. However the strike like all strikes has collateral damage that people may not be able to recover from. What about the camera crews, makeup, wardrobe, logistic, gofers... that all worked on shows that are now not being paid. I want the writers to get a fair deal, but at the same time what about everyone else that is suffering.
   
5. Weather - Well the sudden heat wave after the cold snap and the new cold snap coming has caused some major weather related problems. A couple of communities not that far from her were hit by Tornadoes... I guess there are a bunch of videos of one of them touching down...
   

Daily Observation: Sleep...Yawn...Eye Rub... Goodnight!

School is Back in Session!

Well today marked the first day back for 7yo after his holiday break. In a way it is nice to get back to normal, but at the same time it is strange not having him running around too. I was worried that with the sudden jump back to normal 3yo would have some issues. Well all morning he was great and I had a dentist appointment in at 11:00 that really broke up the day. 3yo was perfect at the dentist while I had my appointment. Late this afternoon however he has started to get a little difficult, but he knows his brother is going to be home soon.

More Tonight...

School is Back in Session!

Well today marked the first day back for 7yo after his holiday break. In a way it is nice to get back to normal, but at the same time it is strange not having him running around too. I was worried that with the sudden jump back to normal 3yo would have some issues. Well all morning he was great and I had a dentist appointment in at 11:00 that really broke up the day. 3yo was perfect at the dentist while I had my appointment. Late this afternoon however he has started to get a little difficult, but he knows his brother is going to be home soon.

More Tonight...

What Over 70 Cars Movie Cars Looks Like!

Anyone that reads the blog knows my 3yo is a complete fanatic about cars and especially the "Cars Movie" Well after finding a few cars he did not have while out shopping yesterday he lined up all the cars from the main diecast set he has. There are a few duplicates and the count is over 70. This does not include the 6 small ones and the few plastic ones he has. I think there are now around 10 or 12 that he does not have. We were at Toys R Us and I have never seen so many cars at one time in any store. It took me at least 20 minutes to search through them. There are a few lightnings in there, but there are just a few variations... I think he has 3 basic lightings due to sets. He was so excited to set them up and his new favorite is "Charlie Checker" the Piston Cup Pace car we found yesterday. We both have fun with them and I think it is great he can organize and name ALL of them, even the ones he is missing... Every time I am at a store if I see one he does not have I pick it up. I can then use them for gifts or other rewards if needed. For Christmas I had been finding them for months. His birthday is not until August, but I am sure I will be finding a few before then... "Dad... I am Dad!!!"

What Over 70 Cars Movie Cars Looks Like!

Anyone that reads the blog knows my 3yo is a complete fanatic about cars and especially the "Cars Movie" Well after finding a few cars he did not have while out shopping yesterday he lined up all the cars from the main diecast set he has. There are a few duplicates and the count is over 70. This does not include the 6 small ones and the few plastic ones he has. I think there are now around 10 or 12 that he does not have. We were at Toys R Us and I have never seen so many cars at one time in any store. It took me at least 20 minutes to search through them. There are a few lightnings in there, but there are just a few variations... I think he has 3 basic lightings due to sets. He was so excited to set them up and his new favorite is "Charlie Checker" the Piston Cup Pace car we found yesterday. We both have fun with them and I think it is great he can organize and name ALL of them, even the ones he is missing... Every time I am at a store if I see one he does not have I pick it up. I can then use them for gifts or other rewards if needed. For Christmas I had been finding them for months. His birthday is not until August, but I am sure I will be finding a few before then... "Dad... I am Dad!!!"

Baby Geared Up...

Well with the due date quickly approaching and the doctor doubting the baby will wait until the due date we had a few final things to take care of. There were some items we did not have and to be honest were unsure we wanted until recently. (Multiple trips later!)

• Infant Carrier - We have a ton of car seats and were not sure if we even wanted a carrier. Well after further review we decided to get a carrier, but it had to clip onto a stroller since I have a bum elbow and the wife has issues trying to carry one. After reviewing different options we decided on a specific brand and model. I got the seat and stroller from Target early this morning.
• Stroller - We have a few, but we wanted one that could do two things. Be a tandem for our 3 year old and clip on the carrier. We found the set and I was able to get the stroller at more then $30.00 off this morning.
• Additional Carrier Base - We needed a second base, but that was not available at target. So on a trip out we were able to get it at Babies R Us...
• Swing - We had planned to borrow one, but it was a little big and we were having issues actually borrowing it. So while we were out we picked up our choice at Babies R Us and it is very low profile and even folds.
• Bouncer - Another item to be borrowed, but the same issue of actually getting it. So we picked one up.

We have found that with #3 coming many of the convenience items we decided against for the other boys are becoming more of a necessity with three. I also found the one item that hand been alluding us for some time. The door frame jumper was located in the garage attic. Now everything is falling into place.

With our third coming and all the problems we have had in the past I am beginning to feel the pull of the stress. It is so exciting and I can not wait to met my third son, but at the same time the final few weeks are going to make me go made. Until baby and mom are alright I will be a worried husband and father while trying to keep that stress away from the wife...

The 5

1. Pimp the Babies Ride - It has been a while since I was in a baby store and WOW!!! some of the stuff is unreal. I saw a car seat that looked more comfortable then a recliner!! Granted it cost about as much as a small car.
2. The Final Swap Cycle - With this being our last as he grows out of stuff we will be finding new homes for all the clothes and toys. IT won't be long before all the baby bins are helping someone else. We will probably keep a couple items, but for the most part the majority will be moving on.
3. Trips Will Change - I thought we took a ton with us with the just four of us, mix in number 5 and even my van will seem a bit tight.
4. Timing - It will be interesting to deal with the logistics of number 3's arrival. When number 1 came we could drop everything no problem. with number 2 we had to find a sitter, but nothing much else. With number 3 we will have school, preschool and even a few other activities to be balanced by friends and relatives if the baby comes at an odd time. The joys of parenthood... :-)
5. Couched Again - I have spent more time on the couch sleeping and I have not been in trouble with the wife. With a pregnant wife ready to pop and a 3 year old having sleep issues and taking my spot the family room couch has become my bed. Too many times, but I guess it beats getting kicked by the wife and 3year old while fighting for a small sliver of the bed.

Daily Observation: People with kids are more tolerant in stores with other people with kids... I guess they get it...

Baby Geared Up...

Well with the due date quickly approaching and the doctor doubting the baby will wait until the due date we had a few final things to take care of. There were some items we did not have and to be honest were unsure we wanted until recently. (Multiple trips later!)

• Infant Carrier - We have a ton of car seats and were not sure if we even wanted a carrier. Well after further review we decided to get a carrier, but it had to clip onto a stroller since I have a bum elbow and the wife has issues trying to carry one. After reviewing different options we decided on a specific brand and model. I got the seat and stroller from Target early this morning.
• Stroller - We have a few, but we wanted one that could do two things. Be a tandem for our 3 year old and clip on the carrier. We found the set and I was able to get the stroller at more then $30.00 off this morning.
• Additional Carrier Base - We needed a second base, but that was not available at target. So on a trip out we were able to get it at Babies R Us...
• Swing - We had planned to borrow one, but it was a little big and we were having issues actually borrowing it. So while we were out we picked up our choice at Babies R Us and it is very low profile and even folds.
• Bouncer - Another item to be borrowed, but the same issue of actually getting it. So we picked one up.

We have found that with #3 coming many of the convenience items we decided against for the other boys are becoming more of a necessity with three. I also found the one item that hand been alluding us for some time. The door frame jumper was located in the garage attic. Now everything is falling into place.

With our third coming and all the problems we have had in the past I am beginning to feel the pull of the stress. It is so exciting and I can not wait to met my third son, but at the same time the final few weeks are going to make me go made. Until baby and mom are alright I will be a worried husband and father while trying to keep that stress away from the wife...

The 5

1. Pimp the Babies Ride - It has been a while since I was in a baby store and WOW!!! some of the stuff is unreal. I saw a car seat that looked more comfortable then a recliner!! Granted it cost about as much as a small car.
2. The Final Swap Cycle - With this being our last as he grows out of stuff we will be finding new homes for all the clothes and toys. IT won't be long before all the baby bins are helping someone else. We will probably keep a couple items, but for the most part the majority will be moving on.
3. Trips Will Change - I thought we took a ton with us with the just four of us, mix in number 5 and even my van will seem a bit tight.
4. Timing - It will be interesting to deal with the logistics of number 3's arrival. When number 1 came we could drop everything no problem. with number 2 we had to find a sitter, but nothing much else. With number 3 we will have school, preschool and even a few other activities to be balanced by friends and relatives if the baby comes at an odd time. The joys of parenthood... :-)
5. Couched Again - I have spent more time on the couch sleeping and I have not been in trouble with the wife. With a pregnant wife ready to pop and a 3 year old having sleep issues and taking my spot the family room couch has become my bed. Too many times, but I guess it beats getting kicked by the wife and 3year old while fighting for a small sliver of the bed.

Daily Observation: People with kids are more tolerant in stores with other people with kids... I guess they get it...

Bruised Ribs and Bruised Ego

Morning sounds filled the house as I began to wake. A little boys voice giggles and shouts "Get Daddy!" The stillness of the bed is disturbed as a little person climbs his way onto the bed. "I am going to Get Daddy!" I play along with the 3yo routine saying "Don't Get Daddy" he giggles and instead of the normal cover and pillow pullback the bed became still once again. The stillness is broken by the impact of two knees into my ribs shooting pain through my body. "Ugh!" My breath leaves me for a minute as I lurch up to avoid another attack. At this point I am doubled over in pain and 3yo backs off and realizes Daddy is hurt... My ribs are really tender and if I move just right the are rather bothersome. No major bruising or pain, but a little discomfort from the trauma of a 3yo's knee drop.

Today was 7yo's turn to play at his friends so after dropping him off 3yo and I made our way to Costco and Trader Joe's for some much needed resupplying. I came in at budget and now have some valuable stores restocked for the next month or so.

The 5

1. 3yo Pro Wrestler - The Phantom 3yo master of destruction put the Smack Down on dad today. It will take me days to recover from the furious onslaught of this mighty warrior
2. -2 is Cold - Today as I woke (in pain) the temperature was a balmy -2!!!
3. Wii Bowling - I have finally gotten the hang of the bowling and am champion. I have a 265 as my high score which is basically 2 pins from a perfect game... Darn SPLIT!!!
4. New Look - I am working hard on a new look and layout for the blog. A new Year some New Looks...
5. 52 Degrees - The projected temperature difference between today and Sunday... I see some colds coming on...

Daily Observation: Getting my butt kicked by a 3yo is no fun...

Bruised Ribs and Bruised Ego

Morning sounds filled the house as I began to wake. A little boys voice giggles and shouts "Get Daddy!" The stillness of the bed is disturbed as a little person climbs his way onto the bed. "I am going to Get Daddy!" I play along with the 3yo routine saying "Don't Get Daddy" he giggles and instead of the normal cover and pillow pullback the bed became still once again. The stillness is broken by the impact of two knees into my ribs shooting pain through my body. "Ugh!" My breath leaves me for a minute as I lurch up to avoid another attack. At this point I am doubled over in pain and 3yo backs off and realizes Daddy is hurt... My ribs are really tender and if I move just right the are rather bothersome. No major bruising or pain, but a little discomfort from the trauma of a 3yo's knee drop.

Today was 7yo's turn to play at his friends so after dropping him off 3yo and I made our way to Costco and Trader Joe's for some much needed resupplying. I came in at budget and now have some valuable stores restocked for the next month or so.

The 5

1. 3yo Pro Wrestler - The Phantom 3yo master of destruction put the Smack Down on dad today. It will take me days to recover from the furious onslaught of this mighty warrior
2. -2 is Cold - Today as I woke (in pain) the temperature was a balmy -2!!!
3. Wii Bowling - I have finally gotten the hang of the bowling and am champion. I have a 265 as my high score which is basically 2 pins from a perfect game... Darn SPLIT!!!
4. New Look - I am working hard on a new look and layout for the blog. A new Year some New Looks...
5. 52 Degrees - The projected temperature difference between today and Sunday... I see some colds coming on...

Daily Observation: Getting my butt kicked by a 3yo is no fun...

The Day After...

The Holidays that is... Today was the first full day after the holidays with the wife back at work and two worked up over holidayed kids. 7yo had a friend over most of the day and 3yo had a play date three doors down late this afternoon. They are still recovering from all the excitement and mom being off a ton. Monday is the big day when 7yo is back at school and we are back to normal around here.

Preparations for baby are in their final stages. We just need to find a few things still in bins and get a few things we either borrowed for the other boys or did not make it through 3yo.

• Bouncer
• Swing
• New Stroller (To go with 5K Runner, Bike Trailer/Stroller and Umbrella Stroller)
• Infant Carrier (We have 5 car seats, but now carrier... Borrowed that)

What is a dad to do... The weather is cold, the kids keep getting colds and all around it is quite gloomy. Having play dates today worked out really well. Come next week 3yo and I will have to find a few indoor activities to keep us busy. There are a few library things, open gyms and of course the Golden Arch Play Area for starters...

January and February are typically the most miserable months around here with super cold temps and that white fluffy stuff. The kids like the fluffy stuff and we can have fun, but the COLD is what gets to you.

The 5

• Heroes - Well I Tivo'd Season 2 and borrowed season one so I am now officially caught up. Next to TV is 24 so when I finish the 24 episodes of last season I have something to watch.
• Clutter Gone - With the baby coming it was time to go through the few areas that are a bit cluttered. I cleaned out under all the sinks, linen closet and toy closets in finished basement. All of a sudden everything feels extra clean.
• Movies - I really want to go to the movies, but the wife has no interest in the two movies I want to see. Will probably just wait until DVD, but would be nice to see something. (I know you read this... :P )
  
• Dads Night Out - I belong to a few local groups and we need to get out a little more often without the kids.
  
• Dinner is Served - The boys have been fighting new things especially 7yo... We are at the point where we need to push him harder to try new things and improve his variety. Getting there, but I focus on Dinner with the new items... Maybe by next year he will eat one new thing.

Daily Observation: 14 F to -1 F is Darn COLD!!!

The Day After...

The Holidays that is... Today was the first full day after the holidays with the wife back at work and two worked up over holidayed kids. 7yo had a friend over most of the day and 3yo had a play date three doors down late this afternoon. They are still recovering from all the excitement and mom being off a ton. Monday is the big day when 7yo is back at school and we are back to normal around here.

Preparations for baby are in their final stages. We just need to find a few things still in bins and get a few things we either borrowed for the other boys or did not make it through 3yo.

• Bouncer
• Swing
• New Stroller (To go with 5K Runner, Bike Trailer/Stroller and Umbrella Stroller)
• Infant Carrier (We have 5 car seats, but now carrier... Borrowed that)

What is a dad to do... The weather is cold, the kids keep getting colds and all around it is quite gloomy. Having play dates today worked out really well. Come next week 3yo and I will have to find a few indoor activities to keep us busy. There are a few library things, open gyms and of course the Golden Arch Play Area for starters...

January and February are typically the most miserable months around here with super cold temps and that white fluffy stuff. The kids like the fluffy stuff and we can have fun, but the COLD is what gets to you.

The 5

• Heroes - Well I Tivo'd Season 2 and borrowed season one so I am now officially caught up. Next to TV is 24 so when I finish the 24 episodes of last season I have something to watch.
• Clutter Gone - With the baby coming it was time to go through the few areas that are a bit cluttered. I cleaned out under all the sinks, linen closet and toy closets in finished basement. All of a sudden everything feels extra clean.
• Movies - I really want to go to the movies, but the wife has no interest in the two movies I want to see. Will probably just wait until DVD, but would be nice to see something. (I know you read this... :P )
  
• Dads Night Out - I belong to a few local groups and we need to get out a little more often without the kids.
  
• Dinner is Served - The boys have been fighting new things especially 7yo... We are at the point where we need to push him harder to try new things and improve his variety. Getting there, but I focus on Dinner with the new items... Maybe by next year he will eat one new thing.

Daily Observation: 14 F to -1 F is Darn COLD!!!

Golden Gate Kayaking

A good friend of mine offers kayaking instruction throughout the Bay Area, from beginning sea kayak classes to more advanced BCU trainings, as well as rolling instruction for both sea kayakers and whitewater boaters. You can visit him at Golden Gate Kayaking.

Andy Walters – Andy got his start in sea kayaking 7 years ago and quickly got hooked. Besides regularly paddling the central California coast from Big Sur to Mendocino, he has also traveled to the UK, Ireland, Alaska, Washington, Lake Powell, and the Grand Canyon. Andy got involved in the BCU system early on and has been teaching through Riptides and Rapids since 2003. He is also an active member and former president of Western Sea Kayakers, a local club based in the South Bay.

Andy is also one of a few friends that blogs with me at Wonkemtel. You can see some rather cool pictures of the places he has been and the boats he has.

Golden Gate Kayaking

A good friend of mine offers kayaking instruction throughout the Bay Area, from beginning sea kayak classes to more advanced BCU trainings, as well as rolling instruction for both sea kayakers and whitewater boaters. You can visit him at Golden Gate Kayaking.

Andy Walters – Andy got his start in sea kayaking 7 years ago and quickly got hooked. Besides regularly paddling the central California coast from Big Sur to Mendocino, he has also traveled to the UK, Ireland, Alaska, Washington, Lake Powell, and the Grand Canyon. Andy got involved in the BCU system early on and has been teaching through Riptides and Rapids since 2003. He is also an active member and former president of Western Sea Kayakers, a local club based in the South Bay.

Andy is also one of a few friends that blogs with me at Wonkemtel. You can see some rather cool pictures of the places he has been and the boats he has.

Happy New Year

Happy New Year!!!

Happy New Year

Happy New Year!!!