Best of 2010

No New Years Resolutions for me. Here's the top things that happened for us during 2010!
1- Cole got accepted to UW Platteville
2- Watching Cole on Prom Court
3- Kyle's confirmation.
4- Cole's graduation
5- Cole getting a summer job and having lunch with me most days
6- Kyle playing baseball for school and summer league. Watching him strike out batters for the win.
7- Dropping Cole off at Platteville
8- Watching Cole Play football during the scrimmage at Platteville
9- Clay playing soccer and loving it.
10- Watching Kyle and Bill on the football field and Kyle's All Conference HM award
11-Clay in his last Christmas program
12- Clay doing his Texas project and refusing any help.
13- Married 21 years!
14- Kyle getting his drivers license
Here's to an even more exciting 2011!

Christmas 2010

Christmas was full of excitement this year! Lots of family time.

Merry Christmas!!!

Presents are opened, kids are fed, Christmas Story is on the TV, movie had been decided, overall a perfect morning. Hope everyone else has just as perfect of a day.

Family

Family are the people when your younger you can't wait to get away from but when you're older you can't wait to get to. The events of the last day made me see how very important family is. These are the people who you can go a year without seeing and it seems only like yesterday. When you get together you don't seem like that 40 something but still the kids you were when you grew up. Family is an amazing thing and I never understand when people say they don't see or talk to anyone in their families. Thank you Mom and Dad for teaching me how important family is.

It's Hard to Say Goodbye

I started to write this yesterday and had the hardest time. Today isn't any easier it's just I'm looking at it in a different light. Aunt Shirley was such a large prescence in our lives. Driving to work in the dark I thought about all the shopping trips to Milwaukee and Fireside that we went to. We always got up when it was dark and cold. The dark also reminded me of those wonderful nights at the cabins in front of the fire and walking back from Grumpy's. We had some of the best time together as a family playing in the dark. Then as the day got lighter I thought of the walks to her house where you were always welcome and she was happy to see you. We will never be able to make the popcorn balls, sauerkraut or the horseradish like she did. I thought about the times when she was so kind and giving. Because of her our families were close and we remain close. She was our organizer and informant. She kept everyone up to date. I will miss her dearly but so glad she doesn't need to be (as her son put it) strong and stubborn anymore.

Thanksgiving Weekend

This has been such a busy weekend. Cole was home since Tuesday night. It's nice to have everyone home again under one roof. The boys kept pretty busy Wed. while I worked.Thursday was wonderful at Deb's. The kids love playing together and of course we went and saw the new Harry Potter movie. The last couple of days have been spent running around trying to find Cole a new winter coat. We also found Kyle's Christmas present in the mean time. It's really sad when they get to be that age when you have to take them with because things have to be sized to them. So much for his big Christmas surprise. Oh well he's thrilled and happy. Clay's list is getting bigger and bigger. He "is 99.9% sure Santa is not real. But Mom I don't want to chance it if he's not and I only get one thing." Love his logic. Back to another busy week. Hopefully I will have time to decorate. I'm hosting Christmas this year and it would be really sad if there was nothing up. Maybe I'll get to the nativity scene once Cole is on his way. Have a great week!

Happy Thanksgiving

Point of View by Shel Silverstein
Thanksgiving dinner's sad and thankless

Christmas dinner's dark and blue

When you stop and try to see it

From the turkey's point of view.

Sunday dinner isn't sunny
Easter feasts are just bad luck
When you see it from the viewpoint
Of a chicken or a duck.

Oh how I once loved tuna salad
Pork and lobsters, lamb chops too'
Til I stopped and looked at dinner
From the dinner's point of view.

Happy Thanksgiving to all! Drive safe everyone.

Happy Birthday Andy!

Happy 12th Birthday Andrew Timothy Wallner! We love you! Hope you slay that big buck this weekend!

And Now for the Exciting News!

Congrats Kyle!!! Given honorable mention (3rd) during the All conference voting for Kicker. He was one vote away (and only after an initial tie breaker)!!! The coaches told the kids Saturday so I am allowed to say it now.

We face Edgar in the level 3 play offs on Saturday at 3pm. Hopefully the boys will be able to beat them. 3rd times the charm. Sounds like Cole is coming home this weekend to see the game. It will be nice to see him.

Now off to start the Texas state project with Clay. Hopefully we can get it done tonight.

I'm off to vote soon too! I love this process just wish they would get rid of electoral college.

My Life in Pictures

Kyle and his date Courtney.

Kyle's power puff team

Clay playing defense.

Boys at Bon Falls, MI

Kyle and his friend Isaac at homecoming.

All the boys of fall in black.

This is the reason I haven't blogged lately just to busy. Pacelli football heads into level 2 playoffs on Saturday in Schiocton. We beat them once but when it comes to playoff time it's a whole new ballgame. If the fans and players weren't so nasty I might be looking forward to it. This is the team that Kyle got a chunk bitten off of his finger. I think fingers dipped in pepper sauce would be a good thing. We have some exciting news however we can't say anything until the person involved knows stay posted.

Weekend at Watersmeet

We finally got to go with the coaches on their annual trip to Watersmeet. I couldn't wait to hit the hot tub because of this terrible cold. It didn't disappoint. Clay loved swimming in the pool with the other kids. We then went and saw the Paulding light. Very funky thing. It was cool and the kids got a kick out of the tales. The stars were beautiful. When we got back Bill and I left the kids in the room to sleep and he and I went to the casino to play. I had troubles with my player card and took it up to the guest service desk to get it checked (We got 10 for being hotel guest and then 5 more for bringing a guest). They said it was working just fine. We went back to play when I got my 1 point for playing I recieved $300 player dollars! OK at this point I'm waiting for security to tell me that's it's a mistake. Bill's about to come unglued with excitement. $508.70 we won. I only played $4 of my own. I went to play another machine and it told me I had $300 again. This machine wouldn't let me play it however the one next to it did. We won $185!! What a fun night. I'm still waiting for someone to tell me this was a mistake. Amy took my card to try it in her machine and she got $30. Her brother won an under the radar drawing and got $1199.
The next morning we were getting ready to go see Bon Falls I got sick and fell alseep in the car. The boys went to see the falls and Bill took the pictures. I guess they made several stops on the way home I was asleep so it didn't matter to me.

It's all in the Family

It's fun to see what everyone in the family does and how similar we are. The younger kids are all playing soccer, while the older ones stick to football. We have a beer maker and beer drinkers. These people travel all over for October fest. My oldest in in LaCrosse enjoying his first October fest hopefully minus the alcohol. We have major baseball players and fans. We have those who like to cook and the rest of us like to eat. We may disagree at times but we all have common threads that tie us together. As the song says "We are family" Go hug one of yours.

Once Again

I get a call at work today from #1 (as Bill's dad likes to refer to him as) "Mom? I don't think I'm coming home this weekend. Rob's friends are coming to stay." Me: Lots of laughter. This kid has promised to come home for 3 weeks. It's always Wed. when he calls and tells us he's not coming home. I end up feeling bad because we aren't able to go get him and he sounds so sad on Sundays. HA! This kids living the dream. Oh to be young and have no responsibilities but to get up and go to class. I wish I could go back to those days.
Kyle is struggling right now. He's itching to play baseball and I think it's even harder for him because in football they are using him as a utility player and he's frustrated because all the coaches are yelling at him because he isn't doing what they want. I think we counted last night and we were up to something like 7 different positions not including his special team duties. He likes playing but he also wants to be perfect at it.
Clay is taking things out of his backpack once again so Dad and I don't see it. Guess I'll have to e-mail his teachers again. The sooner we get that stopped the better we will be.

Interesting

Well the last 24 hours has had some interesting things happen.
1- Kyle had a JV game (terrible) and one of the players on the opposite team bit a chunk out of his finger. OK where is this kids parents and I want a health record! Really these are 15-17 year old kids.
2- Cole is ENJOYING his classes. He really likes them and of all things loves his English prof. Where is my kid and what did the aliens do with him. He also informed me he took a chunk off his finger by placing it in a fan because it was stuck (OK this sounds like my kid now)
3- I went to traffic court today. Bill took 1/2 day of vacation because he thought this would be interesting. I pleaded not guilty, because I was. Had to meet with the sheriff (not the one who issued me the ticket) and explain my side (with pictures of said intersection). I got the fine and points dropped. Bill told me if my mouth runneth off just claim Mad Cow like Denny Crane. That's my husband always supportive.
Now I'm off to the County Executive Board meeting (I'm finding politics interesting) to support Amy's mom who may loose her county job for contract.

Fun Weekend

He thinks he looks just like Cole in this picture. This is the Varsity game against Manawa

Another nice kick!

It's been a fun and restful weekend. Kyle played in Shiocton on Friday night. He got a lot of playing time in on the defense. He did a great job and even got at least 3 tackles. It's fun to watch him come around and put the pressure on the QB. He got a little bruised up but he's not complaining. He kicked well too. He has to play the JV from Shiocton on Monday.

Clay played soccer. He was asked to play with the other team to make the numbers even. His original team won so he was happy. He played well. It's hard for me to watch because I don't understand everything about the game. He loves it. He's on me now for swimming. I'll see about signing him up for private lessons after soccer.





Cole has been busy. He really hasn't had a whole lot of things to tell us and he would rather text than talk. Sounds like he likes his classes and Platteville. He had a group of guys he hangs with. I just wish I could put a face to a name. I can't picture these kids. I'm glad he was playing with his computer last night and posted a picture of Rob.





Bill Sr. is leaving Wed for Texas to go back to work. I think he'll be happy to get back.


Bill Jr. is working on several different cars this weekend including mine. Hopefully it will be put back together so I can go get Kyle from umping baseball this afternoon.

Wow it's been busy

We had Panacea weekend this weekend. Bill was cooking up a storm for the pancake breakfast. I was selling tickets for the mini raffle, Kyle was busy being naughty (2 am free large slide rides) and Clay was busy spending our money.

Friday night we had the football game and won. Kyle had a rough start to kicking but I think he was just nervous at the thought of playing defense. He did very well at both. Clay was the tee boy and was running out to get the tee after Kyle kicked. Bill thought it was great.

Cole didn't make it home. I think he likes the thought of coming home but doesn't want to miss what's happening there. He's liking school and loves his criminal justice class. He thinks his other profs are pretty cool as well.

Clay had his first soccer game this past Sat. (I wish he'd play football but what ya gonna do). He did well and loves to run. I think he'll make a good cross country runner someday.

Half way through the week and I'm exhausted. Maybe it's because I never got caught up from the weekend.

Busy 24 hours

Cole called last night to discuss dropping his art class. He'll still have 14 credits and feels alittle overwhelmed. This happened at 10:45 last night. Then he couldn't sleep and texted me a couple of things at 1:30 am. Oh who needs sleep. He's hoping to hitch a ride home this weekend. It will be nice to see him. Yeah right I won't see much of him.

Kyle had a game tonight and won against Amherst. 21-18. He had a ton of tackles and did very well kicking with the wind we were getting..

Clay is enjoying school. He went with his friend Nick to pick out his new electric guitar. He's excited that the two may be able to play together. Let's hope they don't discuss a rock band.

Not much on the agenda until Friday night when our school fair starts. Both Bill and I will be busy working it. Football game on Saturday night. Should be a good one. Have a fantastic week.

Laborless Weekend

AHHH! A four day weekend with no plans! Bill and Kyle had the game Friday night in LaCrosse. Thank goodness the stands were blocking the wind for the spectators. I think the players got a little chilly. This game against Aquanis always seems like it will set the tone for the rest of the season. It was a tight game but we won by one. Kyle had to come out to kick the extra point to tie the game. I was feeling rather ill at this point. Thank goodness they did a fake and did it perfectly to score the 2 to win.

Cole is awfully quiet. Haven't heard a whole lot from him. No news is good news. I know he liked the classes he got to this week. It was only 2 days but able to give him a sense of what it's about. I have a feeling he won't have 8 am classes next semester. I can't believe he's been gone almost a month already.

Clay is just waiting for his soccer to start this upcoming Sat. We need to go get him spikes. I hope he can find his shin guards.

Kyle asked a girl out to homecoming. It's not until middle of Oct. so who knows what will happen between now and then.

Hope everyone enjoys this wonderful weather. Have safe and happy Labor day.

Kyle at the Washington Game

Such a handsome yougn man

This was a perfect kick! He loves this picture!

Happy Birthday Mom!

Hope you have a fantastic Day!!

Kyle's First Game of the Season

Bill and Kyle had their first game this season. It was against Milwaukee Washington. The score was definately a little lopsided (54-6) Kyle was kicking like crazy. He would just get off the field and start to change shoes and he'd be back in to kick. He was 6/8 for extra point and kicked offs went from the 15th to the end zone. He played offense and defense the second half. After the game both teams came back to Pacelli and had a nice meal put on by the senior parents. Kyle then came home and was in tears because "I did horrible! Don't even try and tell me I did good!" This is the only kid I know who can come off that big of a win and analyse everything he did wrong and think that if it was anyother game he personally would have lost it for the team. OMG!!!!



He and Clay had a nice start to the school year. Kyle has a tough course load. Sophomore year seems to be the toughest. Clay is glad to be back with his friends and seems to like his teacher.



Cole supposedly made the team. I however would not know this since he has yet to tell his parents. His roommate moved in yesterday. Cole had to work the jamboree (all the local teams played at the university) yesterday. He seems happy and doesn't want to come home.



I am fried. I miss the days I tanned and not fried. I look like a lobster. I'm trying to keep my BFF calm. Her foreign exchange student from Brazil is coming next week. Should be fun.

Cole's Scrimmage

Cole is # 46. He can't touch the QB.

Gettin' ready to go.

These are the guys he hangs out with. All freshman all Defensive lineman.

Sorry these are late. I just didn't have a lot of time to allow my very slow Internet to load these up. Kyle took most of the pictures (all 150) so I had to sort through them to get some to post. Kyle now feels he should be a sports photographer. I guess if doesn't make to the pro's he would like to film the pro's.

First Days!

First day of school today for Kyle and Clay. And oh were they excited. NOT! Clay said it was boring. I haven't talked to Kyle yet. Really from 2 kids who kept complaining that they were bored?! Cole seems to be doing better this week. They had a fun day yesterday. They swam and went out a restaurant and a movie. Tough practice.

Happy 92nd Birthday Christine

Happy Birthday to a very classy lady!! We love you lots and lots. Hope you have a fantastic day.
Love Bill, Terry, Cole, Kyle and Clay

A Day Of Lows and Highs

The worst part of having a kid in college is you get to hear the bad stuff. You worry and know that when they call and tell you bad stuff that afterwards they are fine but you are still worrying. Bill and I were both called at 7am this morning with pleas to "come get me." Cole's bike got stolen this morning. It was locked up right under his window. There were 5 bikes but his was the one they stole. He was late to the 7 am meeting, had to fill out a police report and drive around with the officer looking for the bike. He missed the newcomers practice but was told by his coach not to worry about it and just come to the veterans practice. His coaching staff was really very good about this situation. At practice he did "fantastic". It was the first day of pads and felt he did really well. His attitude is back to being Cole.

Kyle had a great practice and for one night he came home happy.
Clay is signed up for soccer and can't wait for it to start.
Nice to have everyone happy, healthy, and relaxed I think I need to start drinking though

Busy Monday!

I can't believe how busy today was. I thought Friday thru Sunday were nuts today was just as bad. I worked then signed Clay up for soccer (YMCA 7 week league), got Kyle to practice, ran a couple of errands and now have to get the house straightened up from Cole's move.
Clay is just excited to have the chaos in our house done with for a while. We have almost all of his school supplies. He doesn't know his teacher yet but I'm sure we will find out this week. He's been up to Cole's room several times. He's already missing him
Kyle is busy at practice and is really working hard. He comes home battered and bruised but really is enjoying it. He took over Cole's number which I thought was really sweet. Cole thought Kyle should be the only one able to wear it. Kyle's been a little ornery but then again he doesn't like change. He's in a new position on the field and with Cole gone he doesn't have the big brother support.
Cole is adjusting to college life. He didn't pass the running part of his conditioning test by 2 seconds and had to redo it. He passed without problems today. He passed all the other parts of the testing except for this. He was so excited he called Bill. Cole got his big brother today. I can't wait to hear but it will probably be a couple of days now before we hear anything from him. One of the players already quit prior to the first practice. There were 150 players slated to come out we know they are down to at least 145 already. He started to get to know the kids on his dorm floor right away. His room is right across from his resident advisor. HEEHEEHEE he has to behave now.
We had the annual kickoff football party yesterday. Good food and company. The senior parents usually do something for homecoming but they thought we all could use the item for the whole season. They gave out cowbells with all the boys numbers. They didn't have Kyle's number written down so I didn't get mine yet. I do have a bigger bell and Cole stole the cow tag but I know I can get them at Fleet. Crowd should be crazy this year. Hopefully I will have to get another # for Cole. We just have to wait and see.

Our New College Kid

Cole's firsst thing he set up, his computers and music speakers

"Really do we have to do this?" Welcome home Cole!

Happy birthday dad

Hope you have a fantastic day of fishing!

Football Starts TODAY!!!

Kyle and Bill had testing and equipment handout today. It's no contact for most of the week. It's the end of the summer which is sad but also exciting at the same time. Kyle's a little uncertain because he's not sure where he will be playing this year and it's making him a little nuts.

Clay is waiting for soccer to start. This should be fun to watch if only I knew more about the game.

Cole is getting to move out on Sat. It's going to get a little nutso here trying to figure out what exactly he needs to take. Wish me luck that I don't strangle him before hand.

The Last Piece of the Puzzle

Cole got his roommate and dorm room today and is he excited. He is in Dobson Hall which is one of larger Halls. It's also co-ed. We're not sure if it's co-ed floors though (I hope not he hopes so) His roommate is from Brookfield. His address will be 121 Dobson Hall, 1200 Greenwood Ave, Platteville, WI 53818-3097. We won't be getting him an additional in room phone so his # will be (715)347-2653 (COLE). He finishes work tomorrow and is like a horse in the starting gates right now. 1 more week. It's hard to be sad that he's going when he's so excited.

Happy 9th Birthday Beth!!

Love You! Terry, Bill, Cole, Kyle, and Clay

Welcome Home

Everyone is home and tired! Bill and Kyle came home around 2. Clay was picked up from swimming around 3 and Cole has been in and out all day. It's amazing how the volume in the house increases when everyone is around.

Now it's time to start getting ready for the rotten "S" word. The boys go back to school on the 25th of August. Cole leaves the 14th. It's about to get really quiet around here soon. I'll admit it is nice sometimes but others I really miss the ciaos of it all.

2 more days of vacation left. I had another week but found out today it's not going to work so I'll just have a nice long weekend. Oh well maybe next time.

It's that time of year again!

It's officially here! Football season. Kyle and Bill are up north at the 4 day camp. Kyle texted me 20 times (I counted )for things he wanted Bill to bring up. Cole is getting set and is starting to lift heavily. I told him he should start running. We'll see if he takes my advise. Clay is going for the UK football this fall sign up is starting next week.

Bill's not accepting the fact Cole is going to college. We were talking today and he was saying he wasn't going to have time to run his special teams at camp so he'd have to be at practice the 14th. I told him that was fine just come down after he was done. Cole would be busy for awhile and we wouldn't need him until about 2:30. He was fit to be tied. He didn't think we needed to take 2 cars down. When I kept telling him yes he didn't get it. Finally I said "Bill unless you want to walk home we need 2 cars" He still didn't get it. So the final thing I said to him was "Bill he's staying, he's not coming home with us." The other end of the line was very quiet. For those of you who think it'll be me with tears think again.

I Saw God Today

I witnessed a miracle! I took the three (yes all three) boys to Oshkosh and Appleton shopping. We had a fantastic time. There were no fights, no jealousy, no snide comments, Cole drove there and Kyle home. I drove to Appleton just because I knew where we were going. It was a wonderful time. Cole is now set to enter college fully dressed. Kyle has spikes for camp and Clay has new shoes that don't knock us out when he takes them off. Everyone came home happy.

Bill stayed home and finished his dad's car. I don't know how it looks because I was told to stay out of the garage while he finishes the clear coat. I hope his dad likes it. I'll post pictures when it's ready.

Kyle's Last Ever SPYBA Game

Kyle took another milestone step last night. He played in his very final SPYBA baseball game. He's played in this league since he was 4. From t-ball to the majors. He made the all-stars every year he could and this year he umpired it. It went from being an excited parent at watching him be the last batter and making the "home run" to being the very excited parent watching him slug the ball and play every position possible. We went to regionals and state (took 6th out of 169 teams). He went from being happy with a tie to "Damnit let's get serious and beat these guys". He's had some really good coaches (including his dad). I thank every guy who coached, took the extra time to help him out, the league for allowing him to umpire and the traveling team coaches for giving up their weekends to be at the tournaments. We don't know where he'll play next summer but we look forward to it. Thank you SPBYA for wonderful memories.

Baseball, Baseball and more Baseball

This weekend was filled with baseball. Kyle has a tournament in Plover this weekend. It's amazing to watch him. He will go from fun loving, screwing around Kyle to game face, it's all business on the field Kyle. He played no less than 4 different positions (Left field, first base, third base, catcher, center field and second base) in every game. He hit with the wooden bat a triple, double, a couple of singles and walks and 1 pop fly. 4 games in all. He got a ton of compliments from the other coaches on his versatility. One teams parents actually opposed him using a wooden bat. Our coach just told the other that if they would like him to hit further than the fence then he'd make him use the composite. The other coach was very quiet after this.

We didn't see much of Clay this weekend he was at the skate park next to the ball diamonds and in the playground with the other kids. I like it when he enjoys going to the games.

Cole went to see Nathan in the all star game. I guess the south pounded the north. Would like to have been there but I haven't figured out how to clone myself yet.

Bill is almost done painting his dad's car. I'll be glad when that over.
On to another exciting week of fun! Hope you enjoy your week. 5 days to vacation!

Happy Birthday DEBRA!!!!

Happy Birthday to you! Hope you have a stupendous day and a fantastic year! Love You!

Another Disappointing Day

Kyle had a tourny in Oshkosh. We had fun last night. We stayed in a hotel, went to the outlet mall, ate and played mini golf. I love being able to spend time with just one kid at a time. Kyle drove us all the way there and did a wonderful job. Today we had the pool play part of the tourny. We did not do so well. Most of the kids on the team are there because its fun. Kyle is there because its fun and its time to win. He got upset during the games. He plays at 10:30 tomorrow. I can't go because I have to work.

Bill and Clay are at Iola car show having a blast. Its been raining on and off this afternoon so things slowed up a bit for them.

Cole's at a Grad party (3 this weekend). His 2 buds left for the Marines today. So glad he didn't choose that path.

Picked up a couple of movies for tonight. Fireworks are tonight but don't feel like fighting the crowd.

Happy 4th of July 2010!

Happy Birthday America You don't appear to be 234 years old! Thank you to the friends and Family (past and present) who have, are and will help defend our freedom!

Registration!

It's official Cole is no longer a Pacelli cardinal but a Platteville Pioneer! He signed up for classes and went through orientation. He was so excited and he doesn't get that way to often. He was very relaxed and was able to show us around campus. He met 2 other students he really enjoyed. One was a girl and the other was a guy he'll be playing football with. Both are in his criminal justice program. If yesterday was any indication of how he'll be on campus he'll be just fine. I got a couple of little heart squeezes during the day. It's wonderful, scary and a little sad to see him all grown up and ready for the next step. The only thing he did that I went "OH COLE!" is when he said he put his name down on a couple of Frats! He's off to Oshkosh for the music fest with about 10 other guys. He had a great time last night and got to see the Zac Brown band. Tonight Darrius Ruckers is the big one.

Kyle is still excited about driving. Can't wait to get the licence. He has had all ball games and practice cancelled this weekend. He's not very happy about that at all. He enjoyed his day of peace and quiet at home yesterday. He really needed to sleep in. He had a pool party last night.

Clay has had Bailey and Afton over the last couple of days as Bill and Bill work on the car to get it ready to paint. We are having a Clayton night. Movie, Toppers pizza and popcorn.

Happy Belated Father's Day

Father's day at our house really demonstrated what a wonderful father Bill is to our boys. The night before he's cooking beef roasts, mowing lawn in the dark, setting up tents on 3 or less hours of sleep all to get ready for Cole's grad party. He had time to do this but on top of being a good father he is also a good son. He's helping his dad get ready to paint his car. Bill's trying to the best for everyone sometimes he forget to breathe. Got to love the guy! Thank you for being the best dad to our boys. They love you very much even if they don't always show it.

Temps are here!

Kyle passed his temps test. He took the test @ 3:30 and then we were rushing to the DMV before they closed at 4. He was so excited. He wanted to drive home. I got him off the highway then let him drive. He actually did very well. I was quite surprised. He double booked himself for work tonight. He got a replacement for umpiring. We also got a call he had ball practice. Geez the kid never gets a break.
Cole's out disc golfing tonight. They put glow sticks on the Frisbee and let her fly.
Clay is ready to do something. We've been trying to get to see Shrek 4 but every time we get time something comes up.
Busy end of the week. I just need a weekend to sleep.

Rain Rain Go Away

I usually like it when it rains. It's calming for the most part and kind of exciting when it lightening and thunders. I love to sit on my front porch with a good book or just a blanket. Lately Amy's been coming over for a chat on the front porch when it rains. This is great since we hardly see each other anymore. However, the rain won't let Cole work, Kyle play ball, or get Clay outside. I'm feeling like I should be saying Bob's your uncle. Also it isn't helping me to get ready for the grad party. So really rain could you just go away for a little while?

Here We Go Again!

Wow! I can't believe we have another kid who's going to be learning to drive! Kyle started driver's ed today. He is eligible to get his temps on Wed. We'll see how they do it. He of course can't wait.
I'm glad it's raining today. Kyle had to umpire at 5 and also had football 7 on 7 which hopefully is also cancelled. He's just to busy.
Cole got to work today but ended up leaving early because of the lighting. Not a good thing to be sitting on metal during lighting.
Clay was up at the crack a** of dawn today. I can't believe he's stilling going strong.
Just getting ready for the weekend of fun coming up. Can't wait to see everyone.

Taking one for the Team!

Kyle played in Bayport this weekend. After waiting out the rain delays for 5 hours they played yesterday and lost 5-3. Today we went and Kyle had a sacrafice bunt which brought in an RBI and then a long fly to center which brought in 2 to tie the game. Our infielders struggled and we ended up loosing 9-5. Kyle then went to the Mall in Appleton and bought a new wooden bat which makes him very happy.

Cole's at yet another grad party (I think there's two today and there were 5 yesterday. One even had a bouncy house). Hopefully the rain will stop and allow him to work tomorrow.

Clay is just busy. He doesn't need to much and begs not to go to the parties.

Now it's off to another Monday. YUCK!

Working Men

It's amazing how fast the kids grow up and how fast they discover how nice having thier own money is. Cole is enjoying his job doing yard work. Today he came down to my office with blood on his leg. He chopped up a gopher with the weed wacker. One of the downsides. He thought it was cool. He gets his first paycheck Fri. I'm sure he'll have it spent by Thurs. I have to remind him he has college to pay for. Kyle was asked to ump twice last night. To bad he couldn't be in two places at the same time. Tonight he was working the food booth at party in the park. Every Wed and Sat. he's available he's working for the park and wedding events. He got tips tonight which he thought was really cool. Clay was chasing foul balls at the playoff games and earned $5.

On a side note, how are two kids who are 10 years apart and raised in two different cities by two different moms be so alike. If you read Jensconsin yesterday you found out Ironman is the hitting song for C-man. When I told this to Kyle he said "Yeah so (Some other AC/DC song with a big bong in it) would be mine. After talking to him I found out he hums this to the plate. YIKES!!! It's got to be genetic. Let's hope they both make it to the MLB

Life's just one big party!

Really this is what our life seems like right now. We have had Graduation Parties every weekend. Let's just say that dieting is not happening right now. It's great to get together with everyone on such a happy occasion.
Even during Mom's surgery on Wed. we had a great time. A big family is great to have when you need to keep your mind off of things. Mom's home and sounds great. Those magic doors of home always seem to work wonders.
Boys are just busy. Cole started work this week and seems to enjoy it. He got sent home Friday because it was raining and he couldn't do anything outside. He even comes and has lunch with me. Kyle is playing ball and is very happy with his decision not to play legion this year. He needs to get his confidence back again. He umpired 2 games yesterday and then worked in the back kitchen for a wedding today. Clay has been home very little and it's starting to show. He had a mini meltdown at the party last night.
Today is just a nice quiet day for the family.

Graduation #2

Project Graduation Photo's This is the bungee run the kids got snapped back so hard some of them flew to the other side. It's amazing no one got hurt on it. Cole and Nathan pulled the back of the inflatable up and out of the blower several times. When they were on it only one could go and the other had to stay against the back wall to hold it in place.
The jousting match. I tried this but couldn't even stand up. They just kept beating each other. They tried a tag team approach at one point

The giant trikes and the video games were a big hit. These things never sat still. Both the boys and girls were running on them.

There was also Karaoke and a poker tournament. They had a ton of food. It's amazing how fast 5am came 68 out of the 69 kids came to this. It was a ton of fun.

Graduation #1

Cole that's not a hat! All the hats

Our happy, hot crew!

Congrats big guy!

Well HE DID IT!!! Graduation was wonderful. Some moms and myself Had a moment when we were decorating but no tears the rest of the day. I can't believe we're at this point already! Off to Platteville in a couple of months. Project graduation was afterwards. The kids get locked in @ 11 and are up to 5am. (us Included) Pictures to follow on that. Thank you to all who came!

Congratulations Cole!

Twelve years ago I was sitting in the church basement watching a sweet little boy graduate from kindergarten. Now tonight I will sit in a gym and watch an amazing large young man graduate from high school. Through all the fights and arguments about school it has been a joy to watch him grow up. It's been wonderful to hear all week from teachers and parents about the wonderful things he has done and how other people see him.

Last night was the sports awards banquette. He got the MVP for boys track. Niether of us knew this was happening. He also got the captains pins for track. It was just the thing to end a fantastic week.

Congratulations Cole!!! Now it's time to tackle the world !!!!

So far So good!

Bachorelett was yesterday. It was so cool to see the kids all coming in at different times getting ready to walk into church. I thought I'd be more emotional but I'm just so proud. Several kids got phone calls in the morning due to missing homework. So far I haven't gotten any and no teacher has stopped me. Cole just hates having to go back to school for these events. I can't say I blame him. Today we had the academic awards ceremony. It was nice to hear all the scholarships given out and see the awards. I have perfected my golf clap. We have the sports awards banquet tonight. This should be interesting. Cole will get his all conference awards and his track and football letters. Kyle will get his participation awards (he's so excited LOL).

Kyle has had 2 ballgames this week with his summer league and we are seeing the old Kyle back. He has hit the ball well and is really the team leader. His coach finds him really funny. Kyle had to make sure that there were treats after the game. I thought I was done with that. Oh well whatever motivates them.

Clay is not thrilled with being drug to everything. Last night his was over at the skate park while the game was going on and came back in tears. I looked for skinned knees, bruises, then I thought the older kids were picking on him. Neither the case. There was an older kid who really liked his board and asked if he could try it. He did this really cool trick and came down wrong and broke his board. The kid felt horrible and offered to give Clay a new one. It took us awhile to calm him down now he's just looking forward to getting the new board.

Tomorrows the big day! GRADUATION! I can't wait.

Schools Out Forever!

Can't believe Cole's about to graduate. I feel like it was just yesterday when he was in his cap and Little cape for kindergarten graduation. Boy how time flys. Now He's about to go onto bigger and better things. Starts his job on Tues., goes to Platteville to register on the 22nd and moves in on Aug. 14. I just hope he stays on the straight and narrow and does well.

Kyle starts his league games tonight. The school season ended with a disappointing loss to Wisconsin Rapids Lincoln.

Clay is just counting the days down to his big field trip to Madison. Should be a fun way to end the year.

Crazy Life

I'm not sure where my week went. It's been crazy busy. Even on nights when I think I don't have anything something creeps up. Cole had the Rosholt Relays this week and the teams did very well. The meet is mostly relays. Throwing all 3 guys throwing get the distances added together. Cole's group took 2nd in discus and shot. 1st in the weight (50 yds dash with 3 members) and 6th in the long jump. That was a sight to see. Kyle had 2 games which were not his best. Friday's game he went into banana man and got the team rolling but had us all laughing. Clay has been just plain busy too. He's been to friends and had Baily over night.
Last week of High School for Cole. He has 2 days of finals. He's off Wed. Then goes back Thursday morning for Baccalaureate and Friday for the awards ceremony. Sat. Graduation. It's finally starting to hit me my baby's leaving for bigger things. This shouldn't be to hard of an adjustment since he's never home anymore. He's so excited and just ready to be done.
We also have a ballgame, track meet, football meeting and awards banquet to go to this week. Life just isn't going to slow down anytime soon.

Busy and Exciting weekend!

Saturday Cole had the conference meet at Goerke field. He took 3rd place in the discus. He was really hoping for at least second but he's happy to have placed. He took 2nd in shot. In both events he threw a personal best. The team did very well overall and their coach was very happy.

Today was Kyle's confirmation. Almost the whole family was together. Denise and Afton were sick and didn't make it. Hope they feel better quickly. We sent left overs home with Al. The weather was beautiful so we sat outside and visited. We had a visiting bishop and he was very good and quick we were out in less than 2 hours. Afterwards we went to Amy and Steve's for a fire and bs. Good day. It was so nice to see Cole and Kyle dressed up together.Thank you to all those who came. It's always great to see everyone. Please come again and make my yard a golf course. Who knows with the gofers we may actually have holes for you all to play next time. Love you all!

The Week's almost done! REALLY?!

Works been crazy busy for awhile and so on rainy days like today I'm not really sad Kyle's game got canceled. Poor Kyle's had a rough baseball season with all the rain. Dry all week until his game day.
We are on the count down for school ending and Cole's graduation. It's tough to keep him focused for the next week and finals. He's so ready to get on to the next step. He'll be working this summer so that will keep him out of trouble. He was suppose to race tomorrow night however he has to work the tech booth one more time for the talent show. He has track conference meet Sat. Thank goodness he's one of the first events so I can see him throw then head to work.

Kyle's getting ready for confirmation. One more big event in his life. He's trying to stay focused and get ready for finals as well. He's panicking a little but that's always Kyle.

Clay has been busy going to friends and having a good time. Poor kid get drug to everything. As long as he has his skateboard he's fine.

I went to my first ever chiropractor appointment today and I have to go back tomorrow. My sciatic nerve has been giving problems and I needed to get it fixed.

Bill had to go work the sign up for youth football tonight and he'll do that Sat. as well. We are going out tomorrow night with all the coaches, wives, and significant others. Should be fun.

Miscellaneous Mush

First let me just say HAPPY BIRTHDAY JEN!!! I didn't forget and I did talk to her that day. I have just had issues with my computer and have been running all over the country watching the kids.

Cole took 2nd for Discus and Shot put in Marion this week. Kyle's games got cancelled. he was suppose to have a double header today but because of the snow and rain the games got cancelled.

Bill's busy painting my dining room. He and Clay think we should leave the room the primer color. Picture Pepto pink. Almost as bright as Beth's bedroom.

I'm just trying to keep Cole focused this last week of school. He has some big projects this week and a few finals next week then he's done!!! It's really hard to believe we've gotten to this spot in ours lives so quickly. He is so looking forward and it's really hard to keep him here and focused. He also got a job working maintenance at my work. That should keep him busy.

This upcoming week we have Kyle's confirmation and track meets and games. Kyle is also umpiring this week as well.

Twisted Sisters

I read my sisters blogs and try to understand how three individuals raised in the same house are so really totally different. I'm very much the homebody, Deb is very much go go go, and Jen always does the unexpected. We can hear the fight about nature vs. nurture but let me assure you it's got nothing to do with either. I also look at my boys and see how very different they are from one another. It shocked me the other day to get a picture in the mail from a get together and see Cole and Kyle standing exactly the same way. Then I look at Clayton and he is so totally different from either of them. Where does this come from? I'm glad they are not alike but sometimes it would make life a little more simple if they all were able to agree on one thing. Especially when it comes to dinner time. :) Enjoy the uniqueness of those around you.

Pictures from this week

Cole and Alyssia Voight getting announced as part of the court. He's the biggest guy and she's the smallest girl. Kind of unfair.

Throwing discuss at Goerke. took 3rd

Throwing shot. Look at Bill. He's never thrown shot but he's trying to help him anyway he can. Kids thought this was histerical.

Kyle pitching at Wittenberg. Did very well. He's pitched at every game so far except 1. I still get nervous. I think it's knee jerk reaction to all the wild pitches I've seen him throw.

Tales from the field

Life has been SO busy!!! Between work and running to the different fields to watch different kids it's been crazy!! Kyle is loving baseball (go figure). He's played 3rd, 1st and pitched. Surprisingly his pitching isn't as wild as it has been in the past. He's trying to adjust to the batting. Growing 6" and getting stronger has thrown him for a loop. He'll get there I'm sure.
Cole has been doing well at track. He's not throwing as far as he has in the past with the shot but that's because they have been trying to change the way he throws. Discus he's doing very well in and has been very excited about this. We're just trying to keep him focused for this last 20 some days of highschool.

Cole's been getting all kinds of stuff from Platteville and is really getting excited. We just got his letter of intent to play and the camp info.

Clay is just busy. He has been at friends houses, skateboarding and working in the garage with Bill. There are some days he doesn't come in until almost bed time. I can't believe how much he has grown and changed. Time sure flys.

I'm off to Wittenberg to watch Kyle tonight and then Cole tomorrow.
Prom this weekend and Cole made court.

Tales from the field

Brothers

So this is what happens when you get into a fight with your brother. Monday night Cole was smartin' off of how Kyle was delusional and the fact that he is only a freshman. hearing this for a year has rubbed Kyle the wrong way. I went outside to talk to Bill and all of a sudden we hear pounding up against the door. This Picture is two days later. That night it was really puffy and red. Kyle was suppose to have his opening day of baseball the next day. Thank goodness it was cancelled. The girls gave Kyle the "Aww Kyle what happened" Poor baby. The teachers just asked him if he was stupid and if he has ever seen what his brother looked like. Well it took 15 years but it finally happened.

Happy Easter =:-)

Happy Easter to all!!! Hope everyone has an amazing day!

How to train a Husband

I couldn't believe it this morning when Bill is tearing apart the house looking for.... the keys to my parents car we were to return this morning!!! Really after three months of them letting us borrow the car because our transmission blew before they left. 3 months of telling him NOT to touch the keys he goes and looses them. Needless to say it was an eventful morning. I went to work after a wonderful brunch at my middle sis's. When I got home I cooked a pizza and went to get the pizza cutter and whamo bammo there were the keys in the silverwear drawer. Really how does this happen?! I really feel like the universal just likes to screw with me once in awhile. So we will be sending the keys back to my parents. Dad reassured me that they have and extra set. THANK YOU MOM AND DAD FOR THE CAR I LOVE YOU!!!!!

Cole's been accepted!!

It's official and I can finally sleep! Cole has been accepted to attend University of Wisconsin Platteville! This is what we have been fighting for. He will be entering the criminal justice program. I hope he stays with this degree. He has to sign his letter of intent to play football and the it's up to him to make the team. He's really excited but of course being the cool bean he is he's trying no to show it.

Spring has sprung!

Kyle got a new glove, Cole got new track shoes and Clay is talking soccer. It must be spring. Cole is well into track. He has his first meet the week after spring break. Kyle has a baseball practice all week and Clay has no plans at this time. It's time to break out my big red chair so I can sit and relax while I watch the boys. I love this time of year! Got the kids grades. I'm proud of all three. I can say no D's or F's and just a few C's (none for Cole). Now if we can just get the college to say yes. Everyone say a short prayer our way. Thanks!

Happy 5th Birthay Caleb!

We hopr you have a terrific day! Wish I could go to the soccer game with you! Hope you enjoy Mom and Dad's gift. Ours is on the way. Have a great one buddy we love lots.

Happy St. Birthday Cole! 18 ! March 17th!

It's amazing where the time went! I can't believe Cole's 18 today (Actually I'm writting this one day early.) Off to Buffalo Wild Wings tonight to celebrate. Hopefully he buys a lottery ticket on the luckiest day of the year.

Clayton's Birthday Party

Last night Clay had his birthday party at the Ramada Inn. He had 7 boys over and 5 stayed over night. There also was a Mighty Might hockey tournament staying there so there were a ton of little boys and they all had a great time. Poor Bill. After I left one of the little boys had a squirt gun slip out of his hands and it hit one of the other little boys and split his lip. This morning another one woke up throwing up. They also would not stop talking until after 1:30 am. Bill came home this morning exhausted. I just had to chuckle.