Goodbye 2009!

Looking back makes me very melancholy. I have a fantastic life even if it throws me a few bumps. With the events of the past several days I am reminded how terribly blessed I am. I have 3 fantastic, amazing, and funny boys. With them come their terrific friends and their parents who have become our friends. I have an amazing family who will come to our rescue (even in a snow storm or evenings when they would rather be nice and warm), or just be there for all the events of our lives. I am dearly blessed with amazing women in my life who I don't know what I would do without. Don't think I forgot the wonderfully tolerant, humorous, loving, amazing man I married. You never stop surprising me. Thank you for 20 wonderful years. I love you all! Now it's time to look forward which will be sad and exciting. With Cole graduating and beginning to head out into the world a little at a time. I'd post pictures of my year but it would take years to download. May you all have blessed and wonderful new year!!!

By the way our vacation was wonderful. We had a beautiful cabin (www.vonsedas.com Island lake resort for pictures) and wonderful weather. The major glitch in our vacation came in the event of the transmission going out of the van. We had 1000 offers for rescue. Mom and Dad are lending us their car until we get the van fixed and even delivered it in the mist of a nice snowfall. Bill drove home to get the car trailer and drove back all in one day so the kids would be able to go skiing the next day. The kids skied until their legs fell off. (I'll post pictures tomorrow). We played games, laughed and ate. It was wonderful and lots of memories were made.

Cole and Kyle both had parties to go tonight. Bill's fast asleep already and will have to go get Kyle @ 1. It must have been a good trip if the kids and their friends want to celebrate the new year together.

The day after!

We're getting ready to head to the great white north. Unfortunately one of the kids won't be joining us today because of the flu. Hopefully he'll come up in the next day or so. It seems like everyone is ready for a break and a get away. Should be fun especially with all the new snow they got. Can't wait. Will try and post pictures when we get back.

Merry Christmas to Everyone

The twelfth day of Christmas brings us to the pipers piping. This is an easy one for me. There isn't just 12 but 19 pipers who like to pipe. These would be the members of my family. The only thing that I would like to say today is that I love you all. (unfortunately I don't have a recent Herkert picture). Merry Christmas!

Twelve Days of Christmas- Day 11

Today my true love gives me 11 drummers drumming. With this thought brings noise and with noise and Christmas Eve I am reminded of what Christmas Eve growing up was like. I remember being so excited to go to Babcock and see all the cousins. It was fun trying to figure out who had your name and what they might have gotten you. As we got older it was exciting to see what Grandma made 100 of that year. There was always a ton of noise and some fun disagreements but no one went away angry or upset. Many times we left with our sides hurting from laughing. After Babcock it was off to Pittsville to church. The older I got the more I didn't mind this because it meant we got to Uncle Stan's and see everyone there. (OK maybe Bill going to this church also had something to do with it.)This was one night when there was no bedtime. Again a lot of noise and competition. On the way home I remember trying to watch out the car window to see if I could catch a glimpse of Santa's sleigh and Rudolph's nose. As I look back it's this feeling I try and create with my own kids. The sense of family, excitement and magic. Thank you Mom and Dad for all the wonderful Christmas memories you have made for us.

Twelve Days of Christmas Day 10

Ten Lords a Leapin'! This is really a good time to mention my "other sons". These boys make me laugh and worry about them as much as my own. I've know 2 of them for almost as long as I've had Kyle. Aaron and Caleb have been a fixture in our lives. They are two wonderful and intelligent kids. They give Kyle the stability and reality checks he needs. Then there's Nathan and Dylon. These are two of Cole's buds who are a big part of our lives as well. It's amazing what these two come up with and it's been so much fun to watch them grow up into the wonderful young men that they are and I wish them the best. These kids will be joining us up north and I can't wait to be able to spend more than a few minutes with them.

Twelve Days of Christmas Day 9

I actually had to look this up. It's nine ladies dancing. Unfortunately I only have two ladies who dance and or skate. This would be my pink fixes. Afton and Beth (listed alphabetically). These are my two favorite nieces. I won't remind them that they are my only nieces. They give my the opportunity to play with dolls, watch recitals, buy girlie things. As much as I love the dirty boys I enjoy getting to see and do the "pink" things with these two. They are so much fun to watch and unfortunately they to also are surrounded by the boys. Thanks girls for letting me be a part of the fun things with you. I love you both!

Twelve Days of Christmas Day 8

Day 8 is 8 maids a milking. This has to be my BFF's. I may not have 8 but I have several very good friends who tend to make my life much easier. Any tops the list whenever I hit a low she knows how to bring up. We have shared a ton especially with the boys being in the same class. Then there is Mary. Never a sweeter or nicer person. Her only fault is she doesn't know how to say no. When there is an issue or something to be done she always puts a unique spin and gives us all a different perspective. She spoils my children and husband. Then there's Sue. I see her everyday at work. She knows more about me than most. It's wonderful to work with a great friend. The one person I don't get to see nearly enough is Becky. It's crazy that we have to make appointments to see her. Both of our lives are crazy. I don't tell these women enough how much they mean to me. I hope they know I wouldn't trade them in for anything. Thank you for being part of my life.

Twelve Days of Christmas Day 7

Anyone who has ever been to our house knows that the Lords are Leaping. We are always having kids (boys) coming and going and calling our place. Our 3 little lords make sure Bill and I leap whenever they need us. I guess part of me enjoys this because I know so many kids who don't have both parents to be there for them. I also know of several families who are dealing with illness this season and I remember how lucky I am to be able to be here for the boys. My prayers go out to those families and friends.

Twelve Days of Christmas- Day 6

Today marks 6 days until Christmas. In this house everyone is getting very excited and wish list are coming in like crazy. Cole got part of his gift last night and who knew you could get so excited about a snowmobile windshield. I'm just trying to get things ready and planned for the day after Christmas. I'm really looking forward to time up north. With 8 teenagers we'll see if I'm still excited about it afterwards.

Twelve Days of Christmas- Day 4 &5

On the fourth day of Christmas My true love gave to me 4 calling birds. This fits my 4 boys who love to call me. I could just get home and slump into my favorite spot and they will call. I can be 4 rooms away and they will call. I Love you guys.

5 Golden rings would have to be the marriages in my family. From my Great Grandparents being together for 75 years, my parents almost 44 (Jan. 2010) to our 2o years and Deb and Tim and Jen and Troy. Happy marriages run well in our family.

Happy Birthday Kyle and Troy!!

It's nice to be able to share a birthday with two other people especially when both of them are so sweet. Hope you both have a great day!!!

By the way this also goes for the third day of Christmas. We aren't maids a milking but because there are 3 of us born on this day we do tend to milk the bank.

Twelve Days of Christmas-Day 2

On the second day of Christmas I got my true love. (2 turtle doves) Pretty sappy I know. He's the love of my life. He's my biggest fan. I know I can be difficult some times but some how he has been given the gift of patience (or deafness) to deal with it all. Sometimes I don't think I say it enough. I love you Bill!!!! Thanks for 20 years of a fun roller coaster of a ride.

Twelve Days of Christmas- Day 1

I know that traditionally the 12 days of Christmas are after Christmas but I wanted to do my own version. On the First day of Christmas I got a cardinal in a pine tree. The cardinal has always been one of my favorite birds but for the last 7 years it has meant a lot more. It has given us friends, taught my sons and helped us become better people.

Today's Funny

I got the mail today and in it was a copy of an entry from this blog. It was dated May of 2008. I was discussing a baseball game (which by the way Kyle was in 7th grade so this was 2 seasons ago) in which I didn't think the coaches did a good job. I never named names or said anything else about the coaches. The one statement I made was highlighted and "Thanks for the support" was written on it. No name was signed to it. I guess this goes to show that whatever you write may be read by anyone at anytime. It's amazing how far back some people will go. As a former former coach and a wife of a coach I know how difficult it can be to hear the criticism from parents.

Never so Happy to see snow

Bill and I were wondering if we were going to have to move our vacation to a different week or loose some money on the cabin we rented because up to this point we haven't had any snow. Thank goodness for the snow gods! We got about a foot or more dumped on us last night. Hopefully we will get several more snowfalls before Christmas. Boys had off of school today and were really glad to sleep in. Cole and Kyle were a little ornery last night because of the little sleep they got the night before because of the Packer game. Cole's off sledding with his buds. The most disturbing thing I heard when he left was "Hey Nathan you have your stunt camera?" I'm waiting for the call to meet him in the emergency room. Clay's out sledding down the hill. Kyle's working on his snowmobile (snowmachine if in Alaska). Bring on a good movie, comfort food and a warm blanket and I'm set for the night.

Packers Rule!

The boys left for the game at about 4 yesterday afternoon. Cole convinced Bill to let him drive using his new GPS. They got there with no problems and time to tailgate. Bill sent Kyle and his friend Isaac out to see if they could find a match or lighter stick from someone. They asked the guys closest to them if they had a match the guy replied "yes my ass to your face oh that's backwards isn't it." That was the start of the night. I got 2 calls and one photo. They got home about 1:10 am. I called them in to school late but Isaac didn't end up spending the night. Cole went to go start his car this morning and walked out to find it missing. Bill took it to work thinking the boys wouldn't be ready to go until close to ten. His truck ran out of gas. Go figure! Everyone is tired and ornery tonight.

Clay had a friend over last night and had a wonderful time without his brothers. I think he was so tired from this weekend he went right to bed at 9 without a fight. We got a call from his teacher to let us know he had an awesome day today.

Christmas #1

We had Christmas with the Pelot side last night. I've almost forgotten what it was like to be able to be young and play with all your cousins. I don't think anyone wanted to leave or go to sleep last night. The kids had a great time playing Star Wars, kick the can, Apples to Apples but the real winner of the night was the game SNORTA! We all had a great time. Deb and Tim made a really nice meal, everyone got wonderful gifts, and we had a lot of fun together. OK we won't mention the millions of football games watched including the one that got turned on when we got home. Clay was up late putting together his legos and today we haven't seen much of him with the erector set. Hopefully this will keep him busy for a while. What a wonderful way to start the holidays.

Oh the irony

Last night I heard Cole telling Kyle that he had to be ready to go into school in the morning because they were taking the senior class picture. This morning we were all getting ready to get going our separate directions. This is an unusual occurrence because I'm usually gone about an hour before they all get up. Any way, this morning Cole tells me they are taking the senior pictures. When I mention he already had his taken he rolled his eyes and explained that they are taking the "Most" pictures. this is where the senior class voted for the "Most athletic, to succeed," you get the idea. I being the noisy mom asked him if he got voted anything. He said yes two things. 2 was the limit/person. He readily volunteered that he was voted "Most school spirit" (there's one male and one female for each category) He was pretty excited and proud of this. When I asked him about the second one the initial reply "That ass Nathan it's all his fault. He did this because I got people to vote on something for him." The second "Most" that Cole received was "Most likely to never leave the area". I think his friends know him better than he does.

Holiday Hangover!

An intense game of football!

Here Fishey fishey!

I don't mean the alcohol type. Food overload yes. We went up to my mom's for Thanksgiving. The weather was wonderful. My sister and her family were there also. We had fun watching the kids walk on stilts. I think all but one got it. I was surprised I was still able to walk on them. The boys decided going down the big hill on scooters and skateboards would be a good idea. I'm glad my youngest nephew wasn't there because I don't think we would have been able to persuade him this was not a good idea. We went to the craft show at the high school and everyone found something cute. Mexican Train Dominoes was a big hit. I found out that Cole doesn't like things out of order. Bill and Kyle thought they got left in Hayward which was pretty funny (Deb took Mom to get her glasses) The big news of the weekend was Kyle's musky. Bill's a little jealous over this. It didn't take him long to catch it and it's bigger than the one Bill caught.

Now it's just time to relax and enjoy the rest of the afternoon before our busy schedule takes over tomorrow.

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone. Have a safe drive to where ever you are going!

Hello Wednesday

I love Wednesdays! The bad part of the week is behind us and the good is just around the corner. Boys are busy. Cole is headed to the State Tournament game tomorrow. He's planning on sitting in the end zone. I had to give him the "good sportsmanship" speech before he left for his friends tonight. A lot of good it will do I'm sure.
I finally got around to making all those 6 month and yearly appointments now that things have slowed down.
Went shopping with Amy yesterday and had a good time. We each bought 1 thing. "Responsibility" was our theme. Especially with Christmas coming up. Time to do a little shopping this weekend. I love it!

Happy 11th Birthday Andrew Timothy!

Wow! How time flies when you're having fun. Have a fantastic day! Love You Lots!

TGIF!!!!

I'm so glad it's Friday and we really have nothing planned. First weekend where we have no football. It's wonderful! Cole got his letter and all conference award. Kyle didn't letter and is not upset because he didn't expect to. He's still up north hunting and having a great time. Both boys have a redneck dance at school tomorrow night so they should have fun. Cole is DJing the dance so that will be fun. Clay and I are going to see Scrooged in 3D this weekend. Have a safe and relaxing weekend.

Sports Awards

Tonight we are going to the football/fall sports award night. We get to find out if Kyle lettered or not. Bill doesn't think so. We'll see. Cole and the other seniors were out getting gifts for their coaches. Usually it's something funny. He went shopping in Wausau last night. I gave him a limit on how much he could spend on a new pair of tennis shoes. He bought 2 for that price. In the realm of loving shoes he is his mothers son.
Kyle is up north bow hunting and small game hunting. I let him miss the 1/2 day of school they had. He was pretty excited.
Clay is at guitar lessons with Bill. He's doing well from what we can hear and what his teacher says.
We had teacher conferences. Basically Cole and Clays teachers love them and could just squeeze them. Kyle's teachers think he's a wonderful young man who works very hard. One teacher said she's going to cry at graduation because she'll miss Cole. I asked her if it was more like the scene in Problem Child where everyone cheers because he's finally gone. She said no and then another teacher walked in and said it was more like Tommy Boy when he graduated from Marquette. But then laughed and said he was coming in to tell me what a great help he has been with the play and how much he enjoys Cole's sense of humor. All three boys had a good report card and I'm so thrilled that no-one gave me any complaints.

Thanks For the Memories Cole!

Sad Best buds.

Dad and son after a fantastic 4 years

Not the way to end a season.

Girls showing their support for the seniors.

Blury but an amazing QB sack! Sent him back at least 5 or more extra yards. Cole's goal before the game was to get the QB.

It was a tough night on so many levels. First it was a tough game. Edgar was a good team but not as good as the score showed. I have very little voice left after the game. Watching Kyle yell for his brother and team. He showed so much support and tears afterwards also. Kyle enjoyed playing with Cole and knew that time was over. He kept saying "The coaches don't know what they are going to miss not having Cole next year." He wasn't even talking about the playing but the emotional charge and support he gave the team. He is so very proud of Cole.Cole got hurt the beginning of the second half and couldn't play. His knee is better but it was horrible to see him sob on the sidelines because he couldn't be out there and he knew this was the end. Because we lost, it was Cole's last game as a Cardinal. The tears were flowing from the kids and it took forever to get them off the field. I did alright until I saw Cole hug Bill and Bill not wanting to let go. Bill's having a really tough time even today with the thought it was his last game. I don't know how he'll be when he graduates. By the way I'm really sad knowing that I won't see him in #79 red and white either. I just remind myself he's on to bigger and better things. His knee is sore but I don't think he ripped or tore anything. As Bill said "Thanks for a great 4 years!" His record was for the 4 years was 43-6. Congratulations!

Pump Up the Noise

Give me a P, Give me an A, Give me a C, Give me an E, Give me an L, Give me another L, Now Give me an I. Go PACELLI!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Boys are all pumped and I feel like I want to hurl. I think they can do it but they need to come out strong. Game's at 5 tonight and the day won't go by fast enough. They are all at practice now until 11 then they have a luncheon at 11. Suit up at 2 pre game around 3:30 get ready to head to the field. Unfortunately there is going to be parking problems due to hockey game at Willet and UWSP game right before ours. Not exactly great timing. The game should be on 1010AM or 99.7 FM. I believe they are also streaming it on line also. Wish us luck and hope we make through to the next level.

Welcome Home Mom and Dad!

Almost the weekend

I got my hair done last night. Shoulder length and the curl is back. I know those of you who have seen me lately are going "Thank God the girl did something" It's just the first night I had time. Boys were practicing and Clay went to play at a friends house. It was wonderful to be pampered. I now have a standing 6 week apt. I had to make it or I'd never go. Work is crazy in every aspect. Time to lay back and chill with the boys tonight. I have to get Cole to finish his essays so we can get them into the colleges. I can't believe this is where I am in my life. I'm not old enough to have a senior. Hope Mom and Dad have a safe trip back. I can't wait to hear about the wonderful time they had.

Football Football Football

Well just an FYI we play Edgar (undefeated) on Sat. Nov. 7th at 5 pm. Should be a good game. Boys really have their work cut out for them. They are practicing in the dark right now. I love day light savings time.

Pacelli vs. Wild Rose

It was a cold windy night but we got it done. I don't think we played our best game. It was a back and forth scoring all night. Wild Rose had a couple of good running backs and they contained our middle pretty well. Cole was double teamed most of the night but got in a couple of tackles. Kyle got in once for kick cover and did exactly what his coach (aka dad) told him to do. I don't think anyone is really celebrating the win right now. We now face Edgar thank goodness at home hopefully on Sat. Jen, Troy and Caleb came to watch the game and boys were pretty excited about that. Clay and Caleb ran around the 2nd half and neither wanted to go home at the end of the game. Clay crashed 10 min out of town. He chose not to go trick or treating yesterday. That's ok #1 his doesn't eat the candy and I really don't need it and #2 I had bought the boys a bunch so they wouldn't feel left out of trick or treating. Today we are all hanging low and quiet.

Halloween!

Happy Halloween

Well tonight's just weird! We have a football game at 7pm in Wild Rose. Our plans for Clay fell through due to the flu at the Herkerts so we have to do trick or treating before we can head to the game. I don't think this will be to much of a problem. Boys are ready for the game. Cole received 2nd team all conference honors for his tackle position. All Conference honors are unique in the fact that your coaches can not vote for you. The voting is done by all the other head and assistant coaches in your conference. He only lost out on 1st team by one vote (Bill was tallying the votes so that's how we know) Kyle is traveling with the team and getting more ornery as the games go. I think it's pure nerves. On a sad note the team that we are playing just lost two of its players to a car accident. One boy is in critical condition and one passed away. No one quite knows how to handle this. I just reminded the boys that emotions are going to be high and they are facing a hurt team. They just need to be respectful. Like I said today is just weird.

Glad Mom and Dad are having an amazing time. Boys can't wait to talk to them

Level 1 Playoffs

Kyle kicking off with Cole next to him cheering him on all the way. Kick went down to the 5 yard line.

Cole tackling Lena One of his 9 tackles for the night

This picture was on the front page of the sports section for the game.

WOW! what a night! We won 53-19. It was a gorgeous evening and everything went right. Cole came out like his pants were on fire. It was one of his best nights. Kyle got to kick off 3 times and also kicked an extra point. Coach was pretty proud of his boys. The last kick off. Cole went up and tapped Kyle on the butt they ran down field together talking all the way. I could tell they wanted the tacke together. Kyle came home and it hit him how proud his brother was of him and how much he's going to miss him next year. We now have to wait for the time of our next game which will not be easy. We face Wild Rose @ Wild Rose. I hope they can win. I'm not ready to see Cole's season end for him.

Pacelli 38 Amherst 20

Kyle's kick off down to the 10 great hang time not his best distance. Cole put it in the end zone

Coach Bob and all the seniors

The traditional kissing the goal line after the last regular season game for seniors

Senior breakdown

Proud dad and his two boys together on the field for probably the last time.

It was a cold, windy night but the boys played well. We had them 30-6 but then our coaches put in our JV and some freshman. Cole ended up with 4 tackles and Kyle 1. Cole also kicked an extra point so his stats will continue to read 1 point per year. This is the senior class's 40th win. Now we wait until the brackets come out to find out who and where we play Tuesday night. Bill walked out with me on the field during parent announcements. I was shocked when I turned and he was standing next to me. One of our running backs is probably out for the season as well as one of our senior lineman due to a secondary concussion he got last night. No it's not Cole thank goodness. UWSP was there to scout Cole last night. Not the best team to watch him against but at least he had a good game. He played Defense only.

Senior/Parent night

Tonight is the last regular season game for Cole. It's really kind of sad. I think I'll be more emotional during play offs. It still hasn't hit me yet that he is a Senior. We are still having the same fights that we've had throughout his school years. It's Kyle's first parents night. We (rather I) will walk out under Cole's # because it's lower. I hope no one gets hurt and we can go into Tuesdays playoff game healthy.

A Great End

Kyle had his last freshman football game yesterday and the freshman remain undefeated. Kyle had 2 great catches and one great miss. He kicked wonderfully and made 2 of them in the end zone. Bill skipped out of practice to watch and is amazed at what he can do already. Kyle had some hard blocks. I guess I should tell you they played against Wild Rose 28-6. Wild Rose had some big boys on the team. The game got a little physical and one of our guys got ejected for unsportsman like behavior. No it wasn't Kyle.
We went to watch the volleyball game last night. First night of playoffs. They won which is good. I think we'll go see Friday's game in Amherst it's usually a bloodbath. Pacelli is hosting the Sat. playoff and Bill has to work.
I have the next 2 glorious days off of work. I'm helping with the players supper tomorrow and I figured I'd might as well take off Friday as well. I still have 3 days I need to burn before the end of the year. Hopefully one of them will be to the state football game.

Make that 2 varsity players now!

After the major freak out Kyle had, he did wonderfully at the game. I knew he would we just had to convince him that he would do well. He ran down on 2 of the kick offs and got the tackle. The then went into kick. He said he was waiting to hear me in the stands but I stayed quiet because I didn't want to draw attention to him. When he kicked the first time only a few people realized it was Kyle. The 2nd kick everyone was asking who it was. You could see them all grab the rosters to see who #83 was. I got a lot of congratulations and "he does a great job" "Bill found his kicker for next year already" "Wow" were the other comments. I was so proud of him. He didn't tell any of his friends and some called today to ask him why he wasn't at the game. They never put the #83 with Kyle. Kyle now thinks everyone will be looking for #83 in the lineup now.
Cole had a hard time being on the sidelines. It was like watching him play a video game. Lean right, lean left and tackle. So far not headaches since Tuesday. We have to have him run and test it. Hopefully we'll be good for this weeks game.
Clay had his last game today. He says he really had a good time this season. He was cold and tired at the end and didn't want to stay long at the party. He's just hanging out now. Cole's sleeping and Kyle's going to be going to the movies tonight with his friends and girlfriend (yikes!)

Kyle's Major Freak out

Bill told Kyle that he was suiting up for Varsity tonight. I thought he'd be excited. Bill thought he'd be really nervous. Well niether of us thought he'd do a major freak out. He screamed for an hour and gave every excuse as to why he's not worthy of playing. The kids a great kicker and and has beat out 3 other guys and is now behind the two seniors. WOW! But he's so afraid he's only going to get one chance and he'll screw it up. Hopefull he calms down and everything goes well for him. Say a little prayer for him

So Sad :(

Cole was having problems at practice yesterday. He was swaying and not really following what the coaches were saying. He had to work last night at school and wanted to go the volleyball game so he asked us to wait until today to take him in. We kept a close eye on him all night and woke him every 2 hours. I was waiting to get something thrown at me but he handled it well. We took him into the pediatrician to see if he had an inner ear infection because he has a bad cold. He ended up with a CT scan for a concussion. Thank goodness there's a brain that is perfect. This dr. was trying to tell us he had a severe concussion and he would be out at least a month or 2. Poor Cole just lost it. The Dr. said to him "Well there's always next year" (as Cole sits there with SENIOR written across his chest) After we told him he was a senior and this was it the dr just replied "Oh well" I thought Cole was going to come unglued. We took him after school to see the sports med. Dr. that saw him on the side lines on Fri. he told us he would be able to return once he was 7 days symptom free. Cole's a little better. He will miss this week and will hopefully be back next. Right now there are 5 guys (4 seniors and 1 jr) out. 3 starters. He's got good company on the sidelines. Sounds like Bill's thinking of suiting up Kyle for the varsity game on Fri. I hope Kyle doesn't stroke over this. We'll see if it happens.

A view from the sidelines

The playing of the national anthem. Coles in the middle. The really tall kid is Nathan go 2 to the left. Kyle is about a 1/4 of the way from the right

Nice Block from Cole #79

Kyle's first Varisty huddle. He was so nervous.

3rd fromthe right on his first kick cover. I wish I had the video of him afterwards. It was a scream

We have another Varsity Player

Last nights game was basically 41-12. The actual score was 41-26. We had our younger guys in at the end and Wey-Fre ended up scoring on them 2x's. Cole got his bell rung and was sidelined for the last part of the 2nd quarter. Bill was saying one of the coaches was yelling "Cole doesn't know where he is" Bill thought he was talking about the play and he wasn't executing it correctly. Come to find out Cole didn't know where he was. My heart did a little jump. One of the coaches told us today he didn't know how he made it back to the huddle. He woke up with a headache today but made it to reffing and to cheer (loudly) at the volleyball game so he must be doing fine.

Kyle on the other hand got his dream come true (or at least one of them) He got to be on kick cover team last night not just once but twice. After the play you would have thought he just won the Superbowl . He was so excited. All his buds were congratulating him. It helps to know the special teams coach.

Speaking of which, the newspaper today talked all about how great the special teams were last night. Bill's pretty puffed up about that. His boys did a nice job.

Clay was about 15 minutes early to his practice before the game and by the time the game came around he was so cold he was miserable. Yes, I did have him dressed warm and he had on his winter jacket. Bill ended up bringing him home instead of playing. They stopped at the volleyball game and his little hands were so pink and cold yet and the poor thing had a salt stain on his little cheek. I felt horrible. I think he may be coming down with the cold both Bill and Cole had.
I'm so cold! It may have to do with being at the game yesterday and then in the cold gym all day. Thank goodness for satellite TV and fleece. I think I may have to rethink the ice cold diet coke though.

Party

I've been having a pity party all week. I know I haven't been a whole lot of fun. The only visitor I've had at my party was the green eyed monster of jealousy. He wasn't much company either. Well with that said, Kyle had a great game yesterday. I missed his 2 "fantastic" catches. I was taking Clay to his practice but at least Granddad and Aunt Denise and cousins got to see it. I saw 3 of his 5 kicks and he didn't do well on one because his shoe lace broke. Yikes! They beat Bonduel 16-0. He had a lot of fun and is still walking on the clouds.
Cole has Wey-Fre tonight. Everyone has been out and 2 big players are out or questionable. Bill thinks tonight is the night he'll put all the brothers in so it should be fun to see Cole and Kyle on the field together and also see Kyle's first varsity play.
Clay has a game tomorrow morning. I will miss this because I'm a line judge for the conference volleyball tourney. Both of us should have fun. One more Saturday morning game for the year after this!!!! I can't wait for things to slow down.

Cold Damp Wet Saturday

Well it has been a busy busy week. Work it absolutely insane and it seems right after work there has been something going on every night.
Thursday night Kyle had a game against Iola and won. He had a great game. He sacked the QB 3 different times and had at least a half a dozen tackles. He did an amazing job kicking a very hard, cold football. The parents were teasing we might have to tape up his foot due to him kicking the rock. He is still walking on cloud 9.
Last night Cole had a game in Bonduel. Thank goodness the rain stopped and it was just damp outside. I was smart enough to wear my winter coat. They won but it wasn't pretty. Cole had a really good game. His school had 78 kids out sick that's about a 1/3 of the school. The team was up and down all week with players at one point they thought there would only be 8 freshman going to the Thursday game. Cole was so tired he took a 3 hour nap this afternoon after he and Kyle reffed this morning.
Clay showed up for his game. He had a couple of nice blocks but no energy today. I hope he's not getting sick. He normally has some good tackles but today he just didn't have the pop he usually has. We're going to go see a movie later.
Bill is just as busy with work, coaching and now training people at Figi's. It's a crazy life.

HomeComing 2009

Reluctantly letting mom take the picture.

Cole's Senior class. Most of the guys are in black and black.

Kyle's class boys.

Kyle's Freshman class.

Homecoming started off wonderful. The boys won 20-0 against Iola. The local paper wrote about the opposing team and ignored the fact it was our homecoming so the win was even sweeter. Last night was the dance and Kyle did end up going after much protest but it sounds like he had a good time. He texted us and let us know Cole won the dance off and it was really funny.

I had the time of my life!

Kyle had an amazing game last night. He played DC Everest. Scott and Becky's son Tyler plays on the Everest team so that was fun. They won 40-20. Kyle was their kicker and nailed all of them. I got a lot of compliments from the DC Everest parents about what a good player overall he was. He got a sack, about 12 tackles, caught a pass. He was grinning ear to ear.

After the game Kyle and Cole had power puff (boys volleyball). They played the first volleyball game against each other. Seniors won. Today is the pep rally, parade and game for homecoming. Tomorrow is the dance and Kyle's still trying to get out of going. His friends aren't letting him stay home.

Clay and Granddad are going to supper then coming to the festivities. Clay plays tomorrow at 10:30 thank goodness it's not the 8:30 game. I might not make it then.

It's Monday Again.

We are so busy at work that after I'm done I want a nap. Clay has nothing today and is so bored but is refusing to do homework. Cole and Bill and I have a parent/student college night. I'm not old enough to do that.
Kyle and Cole were not looking forward to practice today because they know it's going to be awful. Oh well suck it up boys and get through it.
The rest of the week is just going to busy with lots of running. Thursday night Kyle plays at DC Everest and against his friend Tyler. Should be fun to watch. I'm sure we'll sit next to them during the game.

Goerke Field

For some reason I had problems posting these but I finally figured it out.
Clay was Captian so he got to decide the penalty.

His big tackle!

In the nidst of it all. He'll tell you he's terrible and doesn't like it but watch him play and you know different. In fact I told him he might have to miss Thursday's practice and he wasn't happy about it. Thursday he'll remind me I told him he could miss. Go figure.

It's the game we will not speak of

Last night game was awful!!! It's was a night of everyone not playing well. Cole is very upset so we will not mention it again.

Clay however had a great game again. It's so much fun watching him sneak in and get the tackle. He's really fast. It usually takes him a couple of plays to get going but watch out when he does.

Kyle's at a friends house and tomorrow afternoon we have a confirmation meeting. It's suppose to be for Cole and Kyle however Cole has a surprise 18th birthday party to go to. I said I would cover for him.

Freshman Football

Kyle was so mad before the game. He thought the coaches would be moving him to center since their center broke his arm playing baseball. He didn't get moved to center and got to play line backer and Tight end. He had a good game. He got some nice tackles and beautiful kicks. 2 went to the 5 yard line and then bounced into the end zone. He didn't look like the other teams kicker who had difficulty getting it beyond 20 yards. The Cardinals won against Manawa again.
Clay didn't have practice tonight which was good he needed a break. Cole is at dinner with the team then to the O-line get together. Tomorrow nights game is going to be the toughest they have seen so far. Let's hope they pull together and win.

We have a new superstar!

Clay got to play under the lights on the big Goerke field last night. WOW is what we can say. He did a fantastic job and his brothers were even impressed. At practice tonight he won the most intense player award. (A football signed by all the players and coaches) He got lots of tackles and got a sack. He was one of the captains last night. Let's just say he was thrilled.

WOW what a weekend!

Boy were we busy. First Friday night we had the football game. It was a nail biter and I lost most of my voice. We won 19-2 against Manawa. I hate their field. They have a little bitty stand for the parents so I spent most of the game walking up on down the sidelines behind the boys to see what was happening.
This whole weekend we had the school carnival. We ended up spending way to much money on games, rides, raffle tickets and way to much time working. I had a booth and Bill handled the pancake breakfast. Kids were disappointed because they didn't win any of the large prizes. Clay however got a goldfish and slept on the floor all night by it. He was so worried about not feeding it last night. Yikes! One of Kyle's friends mother won the new car so that was exciting. Now I'm just wondering why I didn't take tomorrow off to recover.
Packer game is about to start! Go Pack Go!

Frantic Friday

Today is just nuts! Work is busy, I have to set up for Panacea, and get going to Cole's game. Manawa just seems so far away today. I hate this field and just pray no one gets hurt.
Kyle's Freshman team won in overtime yesterday. He played really well (just don't ask him). The coach talked to him about moving him to linebacker. He's thinking this would be fun. Clay has his first game tomorrow and because of Panacea I'll miss it. Thank goodness he has one Monday night too. Have a great weekend.

The T's have it

We have tempers, tantrums and throwing up. Clay hit the mood swing button last night just as it was time to go to practice. He threw a little 'tude but did fine in the end. The whole team seemed to have a mood to it last night.
Cole called me at work as he's walking into school today to let me know he just threw up in someones yard. Needless to say he's home. He's not worried about missing school it's football practice he's worried about. I think after everyone got sick at camp the coaches are going to be more than happy he's at home and not at practice. Today was mass day at school and he had to wear a shirt and tie. I teased him the having to dress up really did make him sick. Let's hope it stays contained to him.
Kyle is just living the dream. He seems to be really enjoying high school and is coming home and doing homework right away and studying for tests. It's nice to see. I hope he keeps it up.

Post game wrap up

Cole making a nice block

Cole kicking off in the 4th quarter Beautiful Kick. His Coach (aka Dad) was very proud

Ball boy getting the low down on the team

Cole and Kyle warming up pre-game

We did it! It was a nail biter of a game. We won by a field goal. We have an awsome special teams coach. Cole did well. We got a tape of the game from the radio and his name was mentioned quite a few times. It's always fun when they do well. Our official ball boy did a wonderful job. Wish he wasn't leaving on a trip.

Boys are all gone to different places. Kyle is I believe working at Jazz fest with his friend who's parents own a restraunt in town. Cole just left for the Marshfield fair with a group and Clay is at the Dells with the Herkert family and Granddad. Beautiful day to go.

Busy week this week setting up and getting ready for Panacea. Cole and Kyle only have 3 days of school this week. They are going to go help get tables for the event with Bill tomorrow.

Enjoy the last official weekend of summer.

Saturday night lights.

We are just getting ready for the football game tonight. Bill's nervous. His punters are out hurt and he's trying to convince Cole to punt. Not going well right now. We have a two year old birthday party to attend shortly. Boys are off to the team meal in a couple of hours and then it's time to get ready to go. Sounds like our official ball boy and his wife will be attending (aka Mom and Dad). Will give more updates tomorrow.

Tuesday!

Well here's what's been happening;. Football: Cole had his first game Sat. which I thought and so did his dad, he did very well on. After coming out a little flat in the first half came back and won the game 50-32. Gotta love that conditioning.Kyle still has another week of practice before his first game. He's liking school better and yesterday was just awesome. They had to run at practice (a lot) and he loved every minute of it. Go figure. Clay had a scrimmage on Thurs and did well. He cut the top of his toes the night before and they were bothering him a little at the end.

School: Boys hate the dress code. They would like them to wear a shirt and tie for mass days. I don't even make them dress up for Sunday mass. Cole likes his classes and is in charge of two of them (per him). Kyle has finally adjusted and is enjoying being a high school kid. Clay's teacher caught me yesterday and told me he's doing wonderful. So far a good start. Let's hope it stays that way.

Work: finally picking up. Of course it's a holiday weekend. We always get busy then. Bill's just busy and I really haven't had time to talk with him for about 2 weeks. It's crazy.

Happy Birthday Mom

Happy birthday to our favorite red hat!

I hate school

I heard "I hate school" all night last night. Kyle did not have a good day and had a horrible practice. This was not way to start off high school. I hope he did better today. Cole's pushing the edge of everything and has "but I'm a senior and I run the school" 'tude. I'm just waiting for the calls. Clay had a great day at school however took the skin off the top of his toes just before football practice and with his spikes rubbing against them there were tears. Tired and hurt make for an awful combo. Tonight he has a scrimmage so hopefully he'll be ready to go. We got him some gel pads for his toes. So really I'm right with the boys in saying I hate school. School=battles and I'm to tired for battles.

First,Last and Still

Kyle had his first day of high school today but I have to wait until I get home with Clay tonight to hear how it went. Bill said he was excited. Kyle was up before Bill went to wake him. The best part of this year for him is he gets to ride to school with Cole and not take the bus.

Today was Cole's last first day. I got more emotional today then I did when he went to Kindergarten. Poor Cole this is going to be a long year for him. College application request start next week. He's to focused on this weekends game to think about anything else. He's also rebelling against the dress code. I was waiting to hear from the school all day.

Clay had his first day of 4th grade and came home excited. He had a hard time getting to sleep last night. Some of his friends are in his class so he's thrilled. His BFF is not in his class. Hopefully things will go better, as they do each year, for him. The bully moved to Kentucky to this removes a great big problem.

I get to go for a long walk tonight while Clay is at practice. The boys have an early night since practice is now right after school. They will be home by 6. I won't be home until 8.

It the Official First school night

Let's just say not all of us are excited about school starting. For mom it's the start of battles. Clay went to meet with his teachers today. He got to pick a job. He was the first to pick so he was thrilled. He picked ticket master. This is the person who is in charge of handing out tickets when he sees someone doing something good. Cole deemed him the ticket Nazi. Yikes to have power in fourth grade. Kyle had freshman orientation today. Don't think he's as cool about going to high school as he puts on. Cole doesn't help much being he'll be a senior this year. I really need medication. I'm wanting to hug and hold onto him all the time now. By the time the years over I'll probably be so glad he's going to go on to do something different. Still waiting to get his pictures back. He's excited about being a senior. So it will be early to bed for all of us tonight. I didn't forget about Bill he just thinks we're all crazy. Here's to the 2009-10 school year. Say a prayer for me.

Weekend review

Cole raced his last race of the 2009 year. I survived, his dad lived vicariously through his son. They did well without much damage to the car. All three boys had a great time and it kept them out of trouble.
Baily turned 9 this weekend and had a party with his buds. Bill got the bright idea of a pyramid. Gotta love him and his great idea. At least we got him involved. Poor Kyle got suckered into it too.

The Begining

Kyle on Defense.

Kyle's first play of the game. It's hard to remeber he's now 83. Because he also got so skinny it's hard to sort through which one is him.

Cole's first defensive play. Right leg has shin splint and is taped.

His frist offensive play. Let's just say he's a lot easier to pick out. He was definately one of the biggest players on the field yesterday.

Scrimmage today at Marathon. Let me tell you it was tough trying to watch two kids on two different fields at the same time. Both did very well. Bill was with Kyle's team and was very pleased with how he played. He really wanted to see Cole but how often does a dad get to coach his own son. No one got hurt just really muddy. Both boys won all 3 matches. It was definately football weather with cold, wind and rain.