The Ketola Family

K to the Third Power

2011-10-06T18:19:00.000-07:00

My friend, who also happens to be the art teacher at school, made these amazing shirts for the trio. She came up with K to the third power! I absolutely adore it! The kids also seem to like wearing the shirts she made them and showing her at school. :)

First Day of Young Fives!

2011-09-06T15:36:00.000-07:00

The trio started Young Fives today and had a super day! They all three can't wait to go back! I had to be a teacher today so Josh captured a few pictures from their morning! All dressed up and ready to go to school!

Each morning our school serves a free breakfast to all students. Here is a shot of them all sitting and enjoying their first school breakfast!

All three started and ended the day without tears....and mommy made it through without too! I'm going to love having my 'big kids' at school with me this year!

A Visit to a Castle!

2011-08-09T05:41:00.000-07:00

While staying in Petoskey, we traveled to a nearby city to visit a real life castle...www.castlefarms.com. We weren't sure what to expect or if it would be a good place for the kids, but in the end it turned out to be a great place to visit. It's mainly known for a wedding venue, but they have a self-guided tour that you can take and they have a questionnaire for kids to kids to complete too. We had such a good time and took so many pictures that I really had a difficult time narrowing it down. Enjoy them! Josh and the kids feeding the fish.
My mom trying to feed a turtle. She didn't believe me that it was a turtle statue! lol

Malachi, Madelynn, and Aiden by the pond!

Joshua and his mom!

Grandma Callahan and Madelynn.

The castle! Isn't it beautiful!?!?

The bridge and stream from one of the gardens.

Group photo!

Aiden and Madelynn playing chess. There were chess board all over the castle...some small and some big.

Malachi checking out the chess game.

This was one of four giant chess sets around the castle!

There was a children's alphabet garden. There was one plant for each letter of the alphabet. Aiden plant was Astilbe.

Malachi and Madelynn's plant was the Money plant...if only it really grew dollar bills! :)

I loved this picture of Madelynn and Aiden. They truly are best friends!

Malachi and daddy down in the train garden. We were up in the top of the train garden.

Malachi pretending to eat watermelon.

The trio was getting tired and Malachi crawled up in this chair and wanted to go to sleep. How sweet is that!

In one of the rooms, they had two carriages that you could climb up in and explore!

The butterfly garden.

The pond

The Queen's garden.

Aiden and Madelynn playing checkers. We're starting to learn how to play checkers lately. There is one at the library that they love to play!

Aiden and Madleynn walking through the Enchanted Forest. We were looking for fairies!

Lavendar Farm

2011-07-29T09:46:00.000-07:00

We recently spent a weekend in Petoskey with the main purpose of going to the Lavendar Farm to get family pictures. I'm happy to say that we have lots of choices and will be narrowing them down to the final ones which will be given out around Christmas! Here are some of the other shots that are out of the running. These two pictures are the view from the road as we came to the top of a large hill and were overcome with the beauty of the purple fields!
Madelynn...the wind kept blowing her hat off and she was determined to keep it on.

Aiden not so sure about being in the fields.

The best of the 5 family shots we got on our camera. I wasn't extremely thrilled with any of them so we'll try something else. This one wasn't too bad.

The boys walking up the hill through the lavendar. I love the big red barn in the background!

Malachi loved wandering through the lavendar. We had a hard time getting him out when it was time to go.

Madelynn

Malachi sitting among the flowers!

The trio in the fields.

I love this shot of them wandering away from us!

Aiden

Aiden and mommy!

More fields of lavendar in various stages of growth.

While the women visited the gift shop, Josh took the kids to play on an airplane swing they had hanging from a tree. I want one of these in our backyard!

We had such a great time! The trip was so worth it and the sights were amazing! Look forward to my next post with pictures from the castle we visited!

Malachi's ISD Preschool Graduation

2011-07-05T13:04:00.000-07:00

Malachi has now completed his second year at his special education preschool and has made fabulous progress. We are so proud of all the achievements he's made. June 23rd marked his final day of school, graduation, and sadly...the day we had to say good-bye to those people who have worked with him for the past 2+ years and have done so much to improve his life. We're very sad to say good-bye to those people but we know that we'll still see them around. They played the 'graduation song' as the kids walked in. I nearly fell apart, but managed to hold it together! He looks like such a big boy. I can't believe my babies will be starting Young 5's in the fall.
Shaking his teacher's hand and getting his 'diploma'.

All of the kids sang songs and shared some poems. They each got to take a turn leading it. Malachi lead the poem about the oval!

Sitting like a proud graduate!

Malachi's teachers also had a family picnic earlier in June where the kids and families play on the playground, have a cookout, and the kids are honored with certificates of achievement. This is Malachi with his certificate his "academic skills and improved independence".

We could not be any more proud of Malachi and although he still has a delay, we know that he'll continue to make progress in a regular education classroom next year. He will still recieve speech and OT through pull out services and he'll have a great teacher/friend who will not let him "fall through the cracks".

Happy Fourth of July!

2011-07-04T06:48:00.000-07:00

Happy Fourth of July 2011! Madelynn's (garage sale) Indepenence Day Princess dress.

Being silly while waiting for the fireworks to start.

Happy 4th of July from the trio!

Memorial Day Weekend!

2011-05-31T14:28:00.000-07:00

We had a fabulous Memorial Day weekend. It started on Friday afternoon with the trio's family picnic at school so Josh and I both got to leave work early and enjoyed playing with our kids! On Saturday we worked hard doing home repairs, cleaning the garage out, and the kids played with a neighbor kid all day! The bottom of our tub was really gross if that gives you any idea how dirty they were before their bath! lol

On Sunay we had the family over for a cookout. It was lots of fun and although I didn't get my camera out until the end of the day, this picture of Malachi sums up how the day went!We played so hard that we conked right out!
Then the storms rolled in so Josh and I headed to the basement for 45 minutes with the kids due to tornado warnings. What do you do with tired kids in a crowded basement??? You take the blankets out of the dirty clothes and spread them out on the floor so you can cuddle up and play Leapsters! Mommy spent the time folding clean clothing...I figured I might as well work while I was down there! lol

On Monday, we went downtown to the Memorial Day parade. Then we had lunch at the local hotdog stand on the corner and headed home for more work/fun.

While Josh and I continued working on the house, the kids enjoyed playing in their swimming pool!

What a great long weekend! The weekend was so fun that I can't wait until summer so we can spend all day every day playing!

Preschool Graduation

2011-05-30T10:56:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, May 26, 2011, Malachi, Madelynn, and Aiden graduated from preschool! I can't even begin to express my feelings about how I'm feeling about my 'babies' growing up and completing preschool! I'm so proud of them, but so sad that they aren't my babies anymore! Aiden and Malachi singing and doing the motions to Jesus Loves Me.
Malach doing the motions for "He is strong!"

Madelynn sat like a proper little girl. We've been working on this! :)

Madelynn getting her diploma from Miss Jen.

Aiden getting his diploma.

Malachi getting his diploma!

The trio with their teachers, Miss Jen and Ms. Rosemary.

One proud family!

Happy Graduation Madelynn, Aiden, and Malachi! Mommy and Daddy are so proud of you and all of your hard work!

May 2011

2011-05-29T15:12:00.000-07:00

Gosh, I can't believe it's been almost a full month since I've last updated! We've been super busy with lots of fun activities going on, but here is the highlights from the month of May!

Madelynn Mai got a new sassy hair cut! We all love it! I think she'll have this style for quite awhile.
We did lots of cuddling!

Aiden continues to be silly and chose to wear his new pajamas in a different way! :)

We've been reading a lot! They all enjoy listening to us read the stories, but one little boy has been doing some of the reading as well! Thats right...Aiden Cooper can read!

We welcomed a new nephew, Benjamin into the family! Congratulations Jenna and Todd! He's beautiful!

The trio went to their first wedding. They were super good during the ceremony and really enjoyed dancing the night away at the reception.

Madelynn's picture taken by Aiden.

Aiden at the reception. He had to sport the sun glasses even though it was a rainy day!

Then Malachi had to test them out!

Aren't they sweet!

Aiden and Madelynn started dancing like they were grown ups! It was so sweet! Malachi danced in his own rock n' roll way!

Twisting and turning!

The month has been great and I have so much more to share...just as soon as I find the time!

New Bikes

2011-05-02T16:23:00.000-07:00

The kids now have 2 wheeler bikes...with training wheels of course. We thought the kids were finally at an age where they would be able to handle 'big kid' bikes so we waited for a good sale and got them. The boys both got Disney Cars and Madelynn got a Pinkalicious one! We happened to get them over Easter weekend so they are in their fancy clothing in most of the pictures, but the Easter Bunny did NOT bring them. :) Group shot!
Aiden sitting cool on his bike...and yes, he's in his pajamas.

Madelynn was the first one to really catch on to pedaling and of course the first one to wipe out! A small scratch on her elbow, but she's just fine!

Grandma Callahan helping Madelynn pedal and turn.

Aiden's cheeks got in the way of his helmet! :)

Daddy trying to get Malachi to ride his bike. He is the least interested in riding it.

He's more interested in running along side the other two and pretending to be the monster chasing them.

Daddy trying again...This is one area that is affected by Malachi's developmental delay. He has a tough time processing and making the connection between what he needs to do and how to make his body do it. He's making improvements in other areas, but riding a bike is one that he gives up on rather easily.

Madelynn even mastered her bike in Princess style...sporting a long fancy dress and dress shoes!

After adjusting Aiden's training wheels, he's now heading into mastery as well!

The kids have been loving riding their bikes. I'm hoping that at least Madelynn and Aiden will get really good at riding so we can go on bike rides this summer. I know I won't be able to pull the bike trailer with 120 extra pounds in it this year! :)

Eggs, Eggs, and more Eggs....

2011-05-01T14:36:00.000-07:00

On Easter day we went to church with Grandma and Grandpa Ketola and Grandma Callahan. After we went back to Grandma and Grandpa Ketola's house for dinner and an egg hunt. Aiden was being very silly with the bucket on his head! On your mark...get set...Waiting patiently and searching the yard for exactly where to go!

The first stop...fighting over the eggs at tree.

Malachi really understood what to do this year! Every year we've had to take him by the hand and encourage him to pick up the eggs and put them in his basket. This year he took right off!

Madelynn and Aiden finding lots of eggs. I love the look on Aiden's face!

Aiden with his loot!

Malachi topping off his basket!

Checking out the treasures after the hunt! We always open the eggs together and share the treasures inside!

We also colored eggs this year. It was a perfect weather day so we did it outside. That way if there were any spills it wasn't a big deal!

Grandma Callahan found a it which allowed the kids to paint their eggs. It was VERY messy, but they seemed to enjoy it!

Malachi was really into making his egg beautiful!

The final product! The kids had fun, but I can honestly say that I'm tired of eating different variations of hard boiled eggs! :)

Easter Baskets

2011-04-28T12:32:00.000-07:00

Easter this year was a blast! The kids are really getting in to the festivities. Here is the first of the blog posts about everything we did! The Easter Bunny left great baskets this year! Next year the Easter Bunny is going to buy the cheap $15 dollar ones and be done with it! lol
Aiden's basket was filled with Mario and Sonic stuff.

"Wow! Sonic Colors!"

Mario pajamas that its still too cold to wear!

Malachi's basket was Veggie Tales and Mario.

He was thrilled about his Mario pajamas!

Playing with Yoshi!

Madelynn's basket was mostly Princess Tiana (Princess and the Frog). Check out her reaction to getting a Tinkerbell watch! :)

The Easter Bunny did well at feeding her artsy desires!

Princess Madelynn in her Princess Tiana dress, shoes, gloves, crown, necklace, and purse!

Thank you Easter Bunny!

A Burst of Energy!

2011-04-20T06:59:00.000-07:00

What do you do when you've been cooped up at home sick for 6 straight days and finally get a tiny burst of energy? You climb on the eliptical (thats way too big for you) and attempt to do a bit of a workout! It lasted a few minutes and then he was cuddled up on the couch again!

Our Last Bottle of Baby Wash

2011-04-18T17:39:00.000-07:00

Do you know what this is? Some would say it's just baby wash, but this bottle is special! At the age of 4 years and 6 months old, we opened out LAST bottle of baby wash that was given to us at our baby showers!

For almost 5 years we've been storing all the baby wash, shampoo, powder, lotion, and more in the basement, bringing it up when we needed it. We have NEVER bought any baby wash or lotion out of our own pocket!

Many would think this post is just silly...why would anyone care, right? But for us it is special. It is a reminder that we have great family and friends that have supported us since the beginning with our trio. We feel so blessed to have great people in our lives!

Thank you to all of our family and friends who gave us great gifts nearly 5 years ago!

Dora the Explorer Live!

2011-04-10T12:35:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we took the kids to see Dora the Explorer Live at the Croswell Theater. Although it was during nap time and they were tired (and approaching grumpy as you can see in some of the pictures) we all had a good time! The show was completely interactive with the audience and after it was over, they let us take the kids up on the stage and meet the actors and take pictures with them!

Tico, Benny, and Isa the Iguana The dancing mountain people!

Boots, Dora, and Diego

The Pirate Piggies! I think this picture is hilarious...it looks like Malachi is picking one of the piggie's nose!

Swiper!

I'm so glad we bought the tickets and took the kids! Theyhad a great time and did well sitting through the show. I'm hoping that maybe they'll grow up to have their mommy's love of theater and live shows!

Tired Cranky Preschoolers!

2011-04-05T13:26:00.000-07:00

Day 2 of spring break was a little bit rough. We did have a great visit with our former nanny, Diann, but it seemed to go downhill from there. I think I tired the kids out yesterday and they're paying me back today! We tried going outside to play but it was very windy and cold! We tried taking a nap and that didn't work out either! So, we tried going to the library to explore and to get some books to bring home. It was going good for about 10 minutes and then everyone started to break down and cry...so home we went! I think we'll have a very early bedtime tonight! One of the rare calm moments of the day. I looked over and all three were playing their leapsters and seemed to be enjoying actually being together! :)

Urban Toddler

2011-04-04T12:00:00.000-07:00

Today we ventured out to Urban Toddler. It was our first time there but we had a lot of fun. We met two other triplet mommies there, but my trio wasn't in to making new friends today and they chose to play by themselves! :( Oh well, maybe next time! Malachi dressed up as a wizard and loved wearing the cape! The kids waiting on the yellow line as I gathered up the items we needed before heading in.

Aiden and Madelynn loved putting the food back on the shelves. Other children had "bought" all the food and moved it to the house area so Aiden and Madelynn were putting it back. Why won't they clean up and put the toys away that well at home???

They had a large wall that was all chalk board. Malachi picked up the chalk and immediately wrote his name. This has been a work in progress as it's one of his IEP goals and he's doing a great job with it! We'll continue to perfect the "a's" and "c", but its coming along.

All three piled into the fire truck. I attempted 4 times to get all of them to look at me and this was the best one.

Malachi and the fire truck lights!

Madelynn curled up in this fancy chair in the libray and read a few books!

Aiden and Madelynn cooking up some fun in the house area.

All three found this book and had to show me so we could read it. They love it!

Fireman Malachi! I'm almost positive that he's going to be a fireman someday! He's just drawn to everything having to do with firefighters.

Overall, we had a good time! We even came home with a few goodies since they have a store part to the business too!

Kindergarten Registration

2011-03-19T17:20:00.000-07:00

So, what did we do on St. Patrick's Day this year? Well, we didn't have green beer and we missed out the corn beef and cabbage, but we did do something really exciting! We went to Kindergarten registration! It's official, the kids are now registered to start school next year. The plan is for them to be in the Young 5 program. I'm not sure that the kids really understand what is happening yet, but we did have fun completing the scavenger hunt that was planned for the kids, riding the big school bus, eating school lunch (dinner), and exploring the school. After completing the scavenger hunt, they got their official Kindergarten registration t-shirts and we got another Maple Pride sign for our yard!

Malachi, Madelynn, and Aiden...Future Maples!

Do You Know What These Are?

2011-03-09T05:09:00.000-08:00

Do you know what these are?

Something very important has begun in our house! It's exciting, nerve-wracking, and life changing.

Any guesses???

Look what I found in the laundry!

2011-03-04T06:09:00.000-08:00

The laundry keeps piling up, but this is a little more than I expected to find! :)

Big Kid Beds

2011-02-26T12:26:00.000-08:00

The trio got their BIG KID beds today and they LOVE them! Malachi enjoying how much more comfortable the new mattresses are rather than the crib mattresses they've been using.
We got bunk beds with an additional pull out trundle bed for the third kid. We'll put it out at night to sleep and put it away during the day for more room to play.

Deciding who is going to sleep on which bed.

Everyone on the top bunk. Aiden was hesitant to go up, but after seeing his sister do it and asking us if it was safe, he decided to give it a try. Aiden is our guy who is afraid of heights.

The new beds!

More snow pictures

2011-02-25T16:01:00.000-08:00

The weather here has been cold, snowy, and icy so what else are we supposed to take pictures of? Here are a few more snow pictures from our winter fun this year!
Aiden eating snow.

My trio on daddy's snow pile.

Snow Boys

2011-02-23T08:43:00.000-08:00

My boys have been so photogenic lately. Usually its Madelynn who gives me millions of photo opportunities, but now it's my boys' turn. Here are a few of the cute ones I took a few weeks ago while we were playing outside. I'm not a professional photographer, but I do enjoy taking pictures of my children. Malachi
Aiden...I just LOVE his face!

My rosey cheek boy...Malachi!

Aiden found an icicile.

The Fight for Heat!

2011-02-06T12:00:00.000-08:00

Recently we've had a fight for the vent every time the heat kicks on. It's always funny to see who wins! Contestant #1: Tugger
Contestant #2: Aiden

New Hats for the Boys

2011-02-02T05:34:00.000-08:00

We bought the boys fedora hats. They are so adorable! I couldn't decide which picture I liked best so I'll share both of them!

Snow Play

2011-02-01T16:55:00.000-08:00

These are pictures of our first adventure playing in the snow this year. It was previous to the blizzard! :) The kids seemed to have more fun in the snow this year. Not nearly as much complaining!Josh always piles the snow from the sidewalks in the middle of the front yard to make a fun mound to play on.
He took them for sled rides over the hill. This is Aiden.

Madelynn kickin' up some snow!

Malachi catchin' some air!

Aiden with his snow block maker which used to be Josh's when he was younger. Thank you Grandma and Grandpa!

Malachi trying to enjoy the only infant sled we have left. We really need to invest in some larger ones!

Miss Madelynn...enough said! :)

Please Play Along!

2011-01-22T18:08:00.000-08:00

I've been noticing that more people are checking my blog. While that does thrill me, I'm curious to know who you are. I've noticed people from Toledo Ohio, Granger Indiana, Billings Montana, Troy Michigan, Tecumseh Michigan, Bloomfield Hills Michigan, Fairfax Virginia, and even someone from Russian Federation. Some other visitors are coming up as United States...which doesn't tell me much. :)

So....now it's your turn. Please take a moment to leave a comment letting me know who you are and how you stumbed upon my blog. It doesn't have to be long. I just want to know who enjoys reading about my family!

Thank you all for visiting and don't forget to play along! :)

A Little Bit From Christmas Day

2011-01-22T17:28:00.000-08:00

The kids were very excited about Santa coming this year. In our house, Santa comes and fills our stockings and brings us one or two 'big' things to open up. The majority of the presents come from us and we open them up on Christmas Eve. Weird, I know, but thats what we've always done and what my family did when we were kids. So these pictures are all from Christmas day. The sleeping bags from cousins Corey and Pat. We tried them out for nap time a couple days after Christmas. They loved it!
Malachi was so exhausted from getting up early and not having a nap that he crawled partially into my lap and fell asleep. He'll fall asleep anywhere when he's tired!

Santa brought Aiden a big Thomas the Train set and Madelynn got Tinkerbell's house. She also got a pink Disney's Cars car in her stocking. She adored that and was sure to tell her brothers that it was hers!
Malachi showing his Llama Llama doll. Llama Llama is a set of books that his preschool teacher introduced him (and the rest of us) to. He loves the series and was excited to get the two newest ones and a doll for Christmas.
Madelynn checking our her stocking.

Malachi coming into the living room. Notice he is dragging around his new Veggie Tales blanket. He took it everywhere with him in the house for the first 3 days!

Christmas 2010 Highlights

2011-01-22T16:10:00.000-08:00

Christmas 2010 was fantastic! The kids really got into it this year and for the first time in 4 years, they opened all of their presents by themselves. We just got to sit back and take pictures and enjoy their happiness. It was great! Here are a few highlights.

The tree and presents before! I think we need a bigger tree. With all the presents you can hardle tell that we have one!

Malachi waiting patiently to begin. We put down a blanket for each child and pile all of their presents on it so when things get crazy everyone knows what belongs to them.

Aiden...he was the most exciting this year. He had all of his gifts opened the quickest and then tried to help the other two because he wanted to open more.

Madelynn...It looks like her pile is the biggest, but it's not. The boxes were just bigger on most of her things. Lets face it, dolls don't come in small boxes!

I usually don't post about what I got, but this was the best present ever. I've been wanting to blow this picture up big and frame it for our living room for over a year. Josh did it for me and I absolutely LOVE it!

Grandma Callahan got them the Fisher Price Smart Cycle. It's a bike video game.

We got lots of Disney Cars and...
Llama Llama books and...
Veggie Tales and...
Princesses and...

Mario and...

more princesses and...
Handy Manny and...

Thomas the Train and...

tons more! Very spoiled children this year! Thanks to all for the great gifts!

Mommy and Her Boys

2011-01-19T15:30:00.000-08:00

The boys and I had a mommy/sons day in December. Madelynn was sick with the flu so daddy stayed home with her. We had a Christmas party at my mom's house and then after I took them to Children's Wonderland. Children's Wonderland is a tradition that was started in my family back when I was a little girl. I always dreamed about taking my own children so it's something special that we do each year. Aiden and Malachi with Rudolph. I was suprised at how easily they went up to Rudolph.
Me and my boys!

The boys in front of baby Jesus. They were really excited about this display, but (as you can tell) not about me taking their picture.

Stganding in Dr. Frog's office.

Although it was kinda nice to have equal numbers of children and hands to hold them, I do look forward to next year and being able to take the whole family!

The First Christmas Program

2011-01-19T13:09:00.000-08:00

Back in the beginning of December (Yes, I'm that far behind) the trio's preschool had their Christmas program. The kids had practiced the songs for weeks and they all really knew them well. Both of the boys were very good singers. Aiden could be heard above all the rest of the kids. He has a fantastic voice! Madelynn was in her own world that night and didn't hesitate to let everyone in the audience know that she was bored with the program. She is such a princess! I think Aiden might have a future in Hollywood.

The trio before the program. They are so adorable!

Santa Clause is coming to town!

2010-12-25T05:53:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas everyone! I wanted to share our Christmas card for 2010. Thanks Tracey for helping to create it!

Finishing Touches

2010-12-12T16:53:00.001-08:00

We have finally put the finishing touches on the kids' bedroom. Their carpet was put down last week. Thanks Great Aunt Helen and Uncle Larry for the great (early) Christmas present! The trio loves it! :)Of course, it does look a lot different once got the beds and dresser moved back in. I guess taking apart the toddler beds were worth it! :)

A Multiples Christmas Party

2010-12-10T09:42:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday night, we drove to Saline for the annual HOMMIES Christmas party. This is the Mothers of Higher Order Multiples group that I'm a member of. All of us have triplets or more! It's always a great time together...the kids get to see other families like us and no one asks a bunch of questions since we all have multiples. The boys were playing with their new trucks that Santa brought them that night.

The trio showing off their gifts from Santa. I had to include both pictures because Madelynn's looks are just priceless! :)

Santa was played by one of the fathers of triplets plus one! He did a fantastic job and the kids seemed to be more comfortable with the big guy this time around.

This picture is pretty good...I'm not sure we need to visit the mall Santa this year!

We had a puppet show performed by a set of quads.

We made Christmas crafts.

We decorated cookies which the kids loved!

We played games in the large gym area connected to the dining area we were in.

This was the first HOMMIES Christmas party we were able to attend and we had a great time! We had one minor mishap in the beginning when Malachi wandered away from us and got lost in the huge church we were in, but one of the other kids found him riding the elevator! I was in panic mode and broke down crying when we found him...what a relief to find him!

Winterfest 2010!

2010-12-10T09:40:00.000-08:00

Last weekend we enjoyed Winterfest downtown. Basically, a bunch of the businesses have things scheduled for children and most of them are absolutely free! We tried to do as much as we could but it was REALLY cold outside so we stayed out as long as the kids would let us. Clifford the big red dog was at the local teacher store. We made foam Christmas ornaments while we were there.
We saw the Grinch while walking around, but the kids wanted NOTHING to do with him! I really wanted a picture of the kids with him, but it didn't happen.
We went on a horse drawn carriage ride. We didn't get any pictures of us on the ride, but here is an after picture.

We even got to see Santa, but the kids were not real excited about talking to him. I was hoping they'd be more open to talking with him this year since they've been talking about him a lot, but they weren't. We did actually get a decent picture though.

When we went home the kids crashed and took a 2.5 hour nap! I'm excited for next year's Winterfest!

Thanksgiving Highlights!

2010-12-10T09:37:00.000-08:00

We had a small Thanksgiving this year...amount of people, not food! :) It was just our family and three of the four grandparents. We were really excited about not having to share the grandparents this year so we planned something special....Gingerbread Houses. I bought the preassembled ones. They were the same price as the non-assembled ones so I figured why do the work! The finished products. Madelynn, Aiden, Malachi.

The front view...Malachi, Aiden, Madelynn.

Madelynn and daddy worked together.

Aiden and Grandma Ketola worked together.

Malachi and Grandma Callahan were a team.

We had a great time doing. I think we may have started a new Thanksgiving tradition! :)

Carving Pumpkins (a little late)

2010-12-10T09:35:00.000-08:00

We carved pumpkins this year for Halloween, but I forgot to post them...shame on me. Here is the group shot. Aiden drawing the face on his pumpkin.
Malachi drawing his face.
Madelynn and her jack-o-lantern.

Joshua working on carving.

Madelynn hard at work.

Unfortunately, the pumpkins didn't last long. We were lazy and put them on the little table in the kitchen. A couple days later I walked past them and noticed they were growing the fuzzy stuff on the inside. So....the pumpkins were thrown away! Mental note for next year...put them outside once they are carved! :)

Birthday Catch Up!

2010-12-10T09:29:00.000-08:00

So, I realized today that I hadn't posted anything about the trio's birthday party so this is my unorganized attempt to catch up. We had a Mickey and Minnie Mouse themed party this year and the kids had a lot of fun. Here are some of my favorite photos from the day...in random order. Malachi crashed at the end of the night. He curled up on the couch with his new Cars snuggie!
Aiden eating his little Mickey cake. Just like every year, I made them each their own little cake that they didn't have to share. It's our tradition....I wonder if they'll still love it when they are teenagers?!?!

Malachi ate nearly all of his! I was ambitious this year with BLACK frosting!!!

Madelynn and her Minnie Mouse cake! She was so excited that hers had a bow!

The big cake. I ordered a plainly decorated cake with only the red borders on it. I made the rice crispy treat mouse ear hats and wrote their names on each of them. They were really neat looking...the kids loved them. Also, I found Mickey Mouse head shaped sprinkles so we neatly placed each one around the red border. It turned out great!

Malachi loved his new Cars underwear. He had to try on all 8 pairs on top of his blue jeans. It was hillarious. He only walked around in them for a few minutes....I think he didn't like the bunched feeling! ha ha ha

After Malachi opened up his Cars snuggie (which I think was his favorite gift...thanks Kristen and Andy) he went to bed. We had to convince him to get up and open the remainder of his gifts.

Their gift from mommy and daddy was a four piece wooden kitchen set. They have enjoyed playing with it!

We had a Mickey Mouse pinata!

Even Madelynn took her turn at it this year without melting down!

Over all, it was a great party. Thanks to everyone who came and shared in the festivities...and those who sent gifts.

Sickness....over...hopefully!

2010-11-28T12:31:00.000-08:00

We've been dealing with sickness with the kids for a month now. They got a cold and we thought it had gone away. Then two weeks later Madelynn and Malachi started coughing. We let it go for a week before we finally decided it wasn't getting any better. Two hours in the walk in clinic and we walked away with tons of meds. Madelynn was diagnosed with bronchitis and sinusitis. Malachi was much worse off with bronchitis, bronchiolitis, and sinusitis. Little did we know that Malachi was struggling to breath so much that he was on the verge of going into the hospital. :( Malachi taking his breathing treatments...every 4 hours.

The combined medicine basket for both kids. a total of 7 meds!

The good news is that they are now done with their antibiotics. Madelynn still has a runny nose, but seems to be a lot better. Malachi still has a runny nose and we'll continue with breathing treatments a couple times a day until the coughing and wheezing stops.

Artwork

2010-11-16T09:11:00.000-08:00

The kids' room hasn't been painted since we were preparing the nursery. Slowly things came down off the walls because the kids pulled or knocked them off while jumping in their cribs. For a few months the walls have been bare. I decided I was going to paint their room just before their forth birthday so it was more of a 'big kid' room rather than a nursery. We chose a bright blue color! Then we created 'big kid' artwork for the walls. I bought 6 8x10 canvases and the kids each painted one and did a hand print on the other. They are all hanging on the wall and look beautiful! From left to right starting at the top. Malachi's handprint, Madelynn's painting called "Rainbow Merry-Go-Round", Aiden's handprint. Bottom row...Malachi's painting called "Frog"...which ironically looks like a frog if you turn it on it's side, Madelynn's handprint, and Aiden's artwork called "Aiden's Window".

Leaves fall in Autumn!

2010-11-14T14:10:00.000-08:00

Sometime around the first day of Autumn, the kids came home and told us about the change in the season. Aiden said, "the leaves fall in autumn". We decided that our Autumn fun had to include playing in the leaves...especially since the weather was so nice yesterday (mid-60's). Here are my favorites...

A New Ride....

2010-11-13T17:02:00.000-08:00

We finally got the new carseats installed into the Dodge. The middle seat is still a five point harness, but it's a bigger one that goes to 65 pounds. The outside seats are boosters to be used with regular seatbelts. I have to admit that I'm a little nervous about the step up, but the kids are super excited about their new ride!

Fall School Pictures

2010-11-12T09:29:00.000-08:00

Aren't they beautiful?!?!?!?

Malachi...a fireman? EDITED

2010-11-11T09:50:00.000-08:00

A couple weeks ago, the kids' preschool had the fire fighters come in and talk to the kids. They took pictures and this one was hanging on the wall when I picked them up one day. I LOVE this photo. Maybe my Malachi will be a fireman some day!?!EDITED***Since Corey reminded me (in the comments) about the Ton of Trucks event this past summer, I dug out the pictures of Malachi dressing up in fireman uniform and thought I'd share.

Veggie Tales Live!

2010-11-10T13:09:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we suprised the kids and took them to see Veggie Tales Live! in Detroit! It was awesome to say the least and even the adults loved and enjoyed it as much (if not more) than the kids. Thanks Grandma Ketola for joining us. It was fun to have you with us! "Mom, why are we sitting here?" This was their level of excitement and understanding while we were waiting for the show to start!
They played Veggie Tales clips and songs on a big screen to entertain us until the show started. Malachi was in heaven!

"Hey, now its getting fun!" Intermission.

Mr. Cool waiting after the show for our meet and greet with Bob the Tomato and Larry the Cucumber.

Aiden got a Bob the Tomato stuffed toy.

Malachi sporting his Bob hat. All three got them!

Madelynn in her Bob hat and with her Princess Petunia toy. She's a rhubarb by the way!

Daddy and Aiden!

My boys hugging Larry and Bob. They just melt my heart.

What an awesome day we had!

We had so much fun! What an opportunity for our trio!

The Dinosaurs Are Alive Once Again!

2010-11-07T12:51:00.000-08:00

Halloween was fun this year. The kids actually went up to the door and said "trick or treat" by themselves. Malachi couldn't get the concept of opening his bag and letting them put a treat in it for him. He would do it and then he'd want to pick something from the bowl himself. Most people thought it was funny and let him do it. In the end, his bag was twice as full as the other two! Malachi eating a giant cookie that Aunt Janet gave him!
Malachi's dino tail!

Madelynn and Aiden's dino tails.

They were so exhausted that they crashed in someone's yard and wanted to sleep.

My 3 adorable dinosaurs!

We had a great time! We're hoping that next year will last a little longer so we can keep up with the rest of the family.

Happy 4th Birthday Babies!

2010-10-18T17:11:00.000-07:00

Four years ago today I was 36 weeks and 1 day pregnant with three beautiful and healthy babies. I had had a terrific pregnancy and couldn't really complain about any of it. My body held out and at 12:56pm I gave birth to Malachi James and Madelynn Mai. Aiden Cooper followed behind a few seconds at 12:57pm. All were healthy and besides a few minor 'normal' newborn issues, they were ready to be in the normal nursery. They spent 20 hours in the NICU for monitoring of blood sugar levels and the following morning, they were in the room with Josh and I.

Here I was the morning of my c-section. Large doesn't really explain the way I looked and felt!

Malachi James...our first born. 6 pounds 10 ounces. 19 inches long.

Madelynn Mai...our second born and only girl. 5 pounds 10 ounces. 17 inches long.

Aiden Cooper...our youngest. 6 pounds 3 ounces. 17.5 inches long.

We brought them home at 4 days old. They wore preemie diapers and clothing. They drank only tiny amounts of formula and they cuddled into us and slept so snuggled. They were so small that we could fit two of them in one bouncy seat together.

Above is Malachi and Aiden. Below is Aiden and Madelynn.

And now, 4 whole years later, they look like this! Three healthy and happy preschoolers. All are 3 feet 2 inches tall and weigh between 35-38 pounds. They are smart, entertaining, lovable, happy, and the greatest kids that anyone could ask for.

Happy 4th Birthday to three of the most important people in my life. I'm so proud of each of you and the little people that you have become. I love you!

Preschool Family Picnic

2010-07-29T13:23:00.000-07:00

Malachi recently finished his first year of preschool (well...not a full year, but almost). We're so proud of his achievements and we look forward to seeing his future accomplishments as well! Towards the end of the year, his preschool hosted a family picnic where all the kids were recognized. Here's a few pictures. Malachi showing his certificate for "class participation and using bigger sentences".
Shaking hands and recieving his certificate from his teacher.

Madelynn and Aiden enjoying playing on the playground at Malachi's school.

Malachi will continue to go to his ISD preschool next year as well, but he'll move to the afternoon class which is reserved for the older children who will be entering kindergarten the next year. We absolutely LOVE the school and his teachers. They've helped our son so much that words can not even describe our appreciation.

2010-07-29T07:09:00.000-07:00

In June we kicked off the summer with a trip to the Toledo Zoo with some of my multiples group mom friends. There were 5 moms there with their kids. One mom has quads (plus a friend), two had triplets plus 2, one had triplets plus one, and then us. We were quite the show with our quad and triplet strollers and choo choo wagon! We also ended up seeing another set of triplets there in a choo choo wagon (we've actually talked to them before in pasts trips). My little climbers!
He is so handsome!

Busy Bees!

Group shot: one set of triplets plus 2 are missing from the picture.

Total for the day...7 adults and 22 children ranging from 2 months to 13 years.

My kids are still not as big as Louie was when he was a baby!

We had a great day and can't wait until August to see all of our multiples friends again at our annual picnic!

A Trip to the Local Library

2010-07-29T06:49:00.000-07:00

This summer I decided to enroll the kids in the summer reading program at our local library. The children's librarian is amazing and I wanted the kids to experience her storytelling. Here are a few pictures from one of our trips there. They have lots of fun things for the kids to do in addition to finding and checking out new books. Madelynn putting a puzzle together.
Aiden showing his big floor puzzle.

Madelynn and Malachi playing with a big activity cube.

Malachi reading his book. I love this picture!

All three kids in front of the library and not wanting to cooperate for a group photo.

Family Bowling Night

2010-07-29T06:14:00.000-07:00

Back in May, my school had its first family bowling night. We decided to take the kids over and try it out. We weren't sure that they could get the ball down the lane, but we practiced on the Wii so we were feeling hopeful. They actually did okay, but we did have to help provide a little 'umph' behind their balls so they'd make it all the way to the pins. Madelynn very excited!
Aiden anticipating his split pick up!

Malachi have a great time!

Daddy helping his little girl.

Daddy helping Malachi for his first throw.

Big boy Aiden trying to be a little adult and doing it himself.

And for the results...because thats really what you want to know. Did the kids beat mommy and daddy?!?!?

Madelynn - 56

Aiden - 57

Malachi - 61

Joshua - 113

Sharon - 117

3 Little Seahorses

2010-06-30T05:24:00.000-07:00

We decided to put the kids in wim lessons this summer and as of yesterday they completed their first 10 day session. The first session for them in teh Seahorse group. This is the beginning group that just gets the kids comfortable with the water without a parent being in there with them. Our kids are already really at ease with the water, but they were learning some good skills for beginning to swim. We took lots of pictures showing what they are learning. Playing a water version of Red Light, Green Light with big kicks, baby kicks, and blowing bubbles.
Practicing belly kicks.

Splashing water into the river to move the duckies.

Blowing bubbles in the water to flip over the saucers.

Playing with duckies.

Doing ice cream scoops help them learn the motion their arms need to make for swimming.

Playing Motor Boat.

Madelynn learning the supported front float.

Aiden's supported front float.

Malachi's supported front float.

Madelynn's supported back float. She's so comfortable with her hands behind her head.

Aiden's supported back float.

Malachi's supported back float.

Aiden coming up from being under water. He's done it a couple of times, but is now refusing to put his head under water. This is something that will come with time.

Madelynn under water. She's pretty comfortable going under water.

I didn't realize that I didn't have a picture of Malachi under water so I will get that tonight when we start session 2. Malachi LOVES being under water and spends the majority of his time in the pool under the surface.

For session 2, all three kids will remain in Seahorse mostly because they are still pretty young. The next group is Otters and requires that they have the ability to focus for longer periods of time to learn more of the needed skills for swimming. Since our trio is so young (the minimum age for swimming lessons without parents) we thought it was best for them to do Seahorse again and maybe in the third session move up. Also, Aiden must start putting his head under water in order to move up.

We got their progress reports for their first session and were pleased with the comments left by their instructor.

Malachi "He is great, has been a joy to teach, will be a good swimmer once he is older."

Madelynn "She is a sweet-heart, she is very good in the water for how young she is."

Aiden "Aiden will be a lot better in the water with time!"

We're really proud of them! Thanks Grandma and Grandpa Ketola and Grandma Callahan for helping out with the cost of swim lessons. It means a lot!

Where has the time gone?

2010-06-21T09:50:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness! Can it really have been nearly 2 months since my last post?!?!?! Life here has been crazy busy to say the least. Since it's been so long, lets just start with an update and we'll get to the other stuff later.

Josh is doing great. He probably has the most unchanged and normal life out of all five of us. He's still working like normal and doesn't really have any other things to keep him busy besides his wife and kids. He's taken the kids fishing a couple of times individually. It's a great way for him to teach the kids something he loves and spend some one-on-one time with them as well. Josh has been taking on a lot of the parenting responsibilities the past 6 weeks or so because of school and work requirements for me, but he's been a pro and hasn't complained at all. He still continues to be a great daddy and husband!

I've been busy finishing up with the school year which is always a very busy time and moving my classroom home again as I was laid off for the 5th time since I've been with the district (6 years). I will be called back and as off this morning, it's looking pretty good that I'll be back into the same classroom I was in...thats a good thing! I'm also finishing up my masters program. I'm currently in my last class which ends June 27th and then my degree is complete! It's been a long couple of years but thanks to my family I've succeeded completing the program. I'm anxiously looking forward to next week when I can officially start summer and just enjoy my children.

Malachi is nearly done with school; his last day is this Thursday. He has made amazing progress since we enrolled him in preschool in the end of November and is now doing so much more talking than ever before. He will go back to the same LISD preschool next year and will have the same teacher (and hopefully Speech Therapist and OT as well). Malachi knows all of his letters (upper and lower case) and sounds, he can almost count to 100 with help but struggles with the tens (30, 40, etc...he says 20-10 for 30 and so on), he's catching on to counting by tens with help, he knows all of his colors and shapes, recognizes numbers up to 20, and he almost knows our address. I expect to see some mastery of some of these skills before the summer is over.

Madelynn is still very much the princess and the mother of "her boys" as she calls them. She can count to 20 on her own, counts to 100 with help (same problem as Malachi), knows her colors, shapes, upper and lower case letters, sounds, and recognizes numbers up to 15. She is learning our address and phone number but sometimes her "I can't" attitude gets in the way of mastering these skills. Madelynn is very in to imaginary play and is constantly having tea parties with her stuffed animals and brothers. She can write her name although she still needs help knowing what letters come next some times.

Aiden is so smart! He picks up on everything so quickly...often just hearing or seeing it once. He knows all of his upper and lower case letter, sounds, numbers up to 20, colors, and shapes. He can count to 100 with help, counts to 20 by himself, and is working on counting by 10's. He knows our address, Aunt Janet's address, Grandma and Grandpa Ketola's address, and is currently working on Aunt Brenda's address. He is also working on our phone number. He is also learning how to read maps (the zoo map and our GPS) and measuring using inches. He knows his left and right too. He also really enjoys telling us how to get home from various places. He's so eager to learn! He is very good at playing the wii and is becoming extremely good at Mario which is his new favorite game. He can write his first name and is beginning to show some beginning reading skills such as reading left to right. He also is learning some basic sight words. I sure hope that he continues to find learning so fun and easy!

All three kids are potty trained now although we still have days when we have accidents. They only wear diapers at night time and most often are waking up only slightly wet. :) We've signed up for the summer reading program at our local library and we've been doing swim lessons as well.

More to come...

Swim lessons
New preschool
Good bye nanny

Aiden's Writing

2010-04-30T10:30:00.000-07:00

Aiden has recently become very interested in writing letters and numbers. He is now writing his name almost completely without looking. Here is a sample of his recent work. He wrote the one on top and then I wrote it the correct way for him to copy. The kindergarten teacher in me wants him to do it with only the 'A' capitalized and the rest lower case letters. We really proud of him! Oh, I should also note that he is starting to orally spell words like cat, pig, mom, and dad. He'll be reading in no time!

Lowe's Build and Grow Workshop

2010-04-30T10:22:00.000-07:00

We recently got some information about the free build and grow workshops that Lowe's puts on a couple times a month. Even though the kids are a little bit young, we thought we'd try it. We made see through planters. They provided everything including the dirt and tomoto seeds. The kids even got really cute Lowe's aprons and safety goggles. :) Malachi and Madelynn (showing off her planter)
Everyone working hard!

Malachi so anxiously waiting to open his planter kit. (sorry about the sideways picture)

Aren't they cute?!?!

We had a really good time and are excited to trying out some more of the workshops in the future.

First Baseball Game - Toledo Mud Hens

2010-04-26T09:25:00.000-07:00

We decided it would be fun to take the kids to their first baseball game during the Toledo Mud Hens' opening weekend. We had fun and the kids did pretty well considering they are 3 years old. We hope to do more games this summer.

They are so cool looking in their shades and Mud Hens attire!

Family shot!

Enjoying ball park food. I swear all we did that day was eat! :)

A cute picture that I just HAD to include!

Fun With Friends

2010-04-26T09:13:00.000-07:00

During spring break we were invited to go to a hotel with our friends for the night and enjoy spending time together with all six kids and four adults. We spent a huge amount of time in the pool, but unfortunately I didn't take my camera to the pool with us. Here are a couple of fun shots from our room.

This is how our trip started the night at bed time. Aren't they sweet?!?!

I went to get a drink with Chris at Red Lobster across the street from the hotel and this is what I saw when I got back. Josh informed me that this was the 3rd position that Malachi had been in since falling asleep. At one point he was laying on the floor. :)

This is the best of the group shots that I was able to get. It's not easy trying to get 6 kids to sit still for a picture. :)

Thanks again Chris and Josh for the invitation. We had such a great time with you. Hopefully there will be lots more time spent together this summer.

Easter Bunny

2010-04-15T10:13:00.000-07:00

As promised, here are the pictures of the kids with the Easter Bunny this year. No tears! :) The first picture is the best one we got with everyone looking towards the camera and smiling. The second one is the funniest because they all have hilarious looks on their faces and no one is looking the same way. Only the bunny is looking at the camera.

Dome Climber

2010-04-12T17:52:00.000-07:00

For Christmas Bryan (the trio's Godfather) and Cyndi got the kids a dome climber. It's been sitting in the box ready to be put together and just waiting for warmer weather to do it. We finally did it and the kids have really enjoyed it. They aren't climbing beyond the row at shoulder height, but we're okay with that! :) The kids saying "thank you" to Bryan and Cyndi for the cool toy and the shirts!
Demonstrating how it's done.

I decided to take advantage of them playing and take some more natural shots of the kids. These are a few of my favorites.Malachi James

Madelynn Mai

Aiden Cooper

Thank you Bryan and Cyndi for the cute shirts and the VERY cool toy. The kids run to it every time we go outside and it's big enough that they'll have years of fun on it.

Easter Highlights

2010-04-12T16:32:00.000-07:00

It's been a really long time since I've posted, but to my defense, I haven't been able to get pictures to load on the blog, email, or facebook and I had been trying for at least a week. Anyways, I'm going to try and catch up with the past two months of our lives. Lets start with Easter. We enjoyed a peaceful day at home with Grandma and Grandpa Ketola and Grandma Callahan. It was so relaxing and the kids had a great time playing with their new things from the Easter Bunny. Showing off their new pajamas from the Easter Bunny.

Showing the eggs they found in our first Easter day egg hunt in the back yard. Madelynn is a great collector! After the hunt, they dumped all the eggs in a pile and shared.

Malachi enjoying his new Veggie Tales DVD and CD's. He would NOT let go of them!

Aiden got Wii Music from the Easter Bunny. He is addicted to the Wii!

Madelynn checking out her princess/Dora theme basket.

Malachi checking out the colored eggs.

Aiden and Madelynn really getting into the process.

Making no bake Easter egg nest cookies at Grandma Callahan's house. Malachi tasted most of his jelly beans BEFORE putting them on the cookie. :)

I took pictures of the kids in a giant Easter basket that I borrowed from work. Here is Aiden's best picture.

Madelynn had way too many to choose from. She loves posing for the camera.

Malachi wouldn't sit and pose for any shots, but I managed this one when he finally stopped for a break. I absolutely LOVE this shot!

My favorite shot of the day!

This was the best group shot from our little photo shoot. Not too bad!

I have a picture of the kids with the Easter Bunny too. I'll post that later.

Malachi's Surgery

2010-03-18T16:09:00.000-07:00

Long time no blog! Life has been crazy busy, but I think I'll play catch up this weekend. :)

Malachi had his surgery today. At 6:30 a.m. we reported to the hospital where Malachi would get his tonsils and adenoids out and a second set of tubes put in. He did great...a ton better than we expected!! His tonsils were inlarged and we suspect they are the cause of some obstructive sleep apnea. His tubes will relieve the build up of thick fluid that has been affecting his hearing and his adenoids....well they are gone.

He had a bit of a hard time coming out of anestesia. We think it was a possible reaction to the demerol they gave him for pain. They used the same anestesia as the last time he had tubes put in his ears and it was much harder for him to wake up this time. We are left to assume that it was the demerol. I finally got him calm enough to sleep for about an hour and when he woke up he was much happier. He had an IV and was VERY upset with it. He kept trying to pull it out and boy is he strong. It took both Josh and I to separate his hands. Luckily his bag ran out and the IV got to come out sooner than expected.

So we are home and our under quarentine for the next 10 days. Malachi is already amazing us by eating mac and cheese and jello. He's also up and enjoying being home. I have no idea how we'll keep him down for 3 whole weeks! Thanks to everyone for the thoughts and prayers.

One of the best moments of the entire day was when they were taking Malachi back to surgery. I was holding him and asked him for a kiss. He leaned over to the Dr. Mucha, his ENT, and gave her a kiss! Then I got mine, but he wanted to give her another one. He went to her easily and didn't even cry when they walked away. Now Malachi apparently has a girl friend that is significantly older than him! ha ha ha...

Malachi before surgery.

Malachi after surgery and enjoying getting really sticky with his popcicle.

The Ketola triplets made the paper!

2010-02-28T17:37:00.000-08:00

We went to the Preschool Fair at the Adrian Mall yesterday to get information about preschools for the kids next year. The local paper was there and snapped pictures of the trio, one of which made the paper. Check it out here and here. The good news is that we got lots of information about local preschool options. The bad news is now we have to sort it all out and make some sort of a decision. Thank goodness we have a little while...I never knew picking a preschool was so difficult!

Chocolate Milk

2010-02-25T10:28:00.000-08:00

A few days ago, I decided to take a quick shower while the boys watched tv and Madelynn was sleeping. During my short shower, Malachi decided to make chocolate milk...all by himself. Here are the steps he took....it was quite the process!

Drink the three cups of milk that mommy poured for the kids.

Climb on the chair and put Aiden and Madelynn's empty cups into the sink.
Get out the chocolate syrup from the fridge and take it along with the cup to the table.
Unscrew and remove the cap from the chocolate syrup, even though it has a flip top on it.
Pour syrup in cup and all over table.

Drink chocolate milk (without any milk in it).

When I saw him, I asked him what he was doing. He told me "chocolate milk". I asked him if he made it by himself and he replied , "YUM!" I probably should have gotten after him, but it was so cute that I had to take pictures and document everything! I'm proud of him for going through the process all by himself!

Potty Training: Round 300 and something!

2010-02-20T17:17:00.000-08:00

Potty training has proven to be a lengthy process for us. It all started when the kids turned 2 years old and got these really cool potty chairs from Aunt Helen and Uncle Larry.

We let them play with the potty chairs for months until we started trying to potty train in the summer. That time it was short lived. We again started trying a few months ago. We started with no reward, then moved on to m&m's, and eventually we started a sticker system. Every time they earned 10 stickers, they'd get a small cheap toy. Then once they got all four lines filled on their chart, they got a big toy, which usually ended up being a dvd since thats what they wanted. This worked for Aiden and he filled his chart 3 times before we said he was actually potty trained. Now he is successfully using the potty and we're thinking about not putting a diaper on him at nap time since he wakes up dry each time. Go Aiden!

We even bought one of those padded seats that sit on the toilet. That helped with Aiden too!

Madelynn continues to provide us with attitude about the whole process. We are constantly telling her to go in and go potty. She knows when she needs to go, but she's too lazy to do it. Pooping on the potty is still a major issue and doesn't ever happen on the potty. So tonight we started something new. We bought a set of crowns, rings, bracelets, earings, wands, etc and put them in a tote. We told her that whenever she poops on the potty she can pick one thing from the tote. She is excited so we're hoping it will work. She knows when she needs to go because she finds a hiding place and squats...very obvious! We're hoping for the best.

Malachi has also been showing some interest in potty training. He doesn't like wearing his diaper anymore and takes it off all the time. He likes wearing underwear but he pees and poops in them and THEN goes and sits on the potty. So, we got him a tote of goodies too. He has a sweet tooth so each time he has any success on the potty, he gets to pick one piece of candy. I know...I said I wouldn't do candy rewards, but hey...somethings gotta give!

So we start potty training, round 300 and something. I've lost track as it seems like this whole process has been going on for well over a year!

Cabela's with Grandpa Ham

2010-02-17T07:40:00.000-08:00

Last Friday was mid-winter break for me so we spent some time with my dad, who the kids call Grandpa Ham (because Callahan is too hard to say). We went to Cabela's to walk around and look at the animals and fish. The kids had a blast and I really enjoyed spending time with my dad!

Checking out the fish with Grandpa Ham.

Sitting by the elephant

The kids learned what a moose is.

My boys sitting together.

Snow Day Fun

2010-02-16T10:10:00.000-08:00

What do you do when it's been snowing all day? You can.... Make snow angels!

Try to catch snowflakes on your tongue!

Play follow the leader through the biggest piles of snow. Try to overcome the Oscar the Grouch hat that keeps falling over your eyes!

Swing because every child needs to try to balance on a swing while in bundles of clothing. Lay in the snow so mommy can take fun pictures like this one.

And when all the fun is done, you can shovel the driveway and sidewalks with the help of three littles ones!

Computer Problems

2010-02-11T09:18:00.000-08:00

I have lots of info and pictures to update the blog, but my computer is down. Check back later this weekend and I hope to have it back up and running.

Teacher Mode

2010-02-03T16:30:00.001-08:00

I had some time on my own with the kids tonight and what do I decide to do...get into teacher mode. I wanted to know how much they knew in terms of letters, shapes, numbers, and colors. I'm amazed by the results! We might be creating baby geniuses!!! If you are bored with random information that most likely only Josh and I are excited about, then you should skip this post. :)

Aiden knows...

24/26 uppercase letters
21/26 lowercase letters
10/10 colors (the basics...pink, red, white, orange, green, brown, blue, purple, black, and yellow)
8.5/10 basic shapes (star, square, octagon, triangle, circle, heart, oval, diamond, and he calls the cresant a moon...I think he gets half credit for that)
He also recognizes the numbers 2-8 and 10.

Madelynn knows...

21/26 uppercase letters
9/10 colors (struggled on black)
8/10 shapes (struggled on square and rectangle)
Identifies numbers 2-5 and 7-10.
Madelynn did not want to do lowercase letters, although I'm positive she knows many of them.

Malachi knows...

8/26 uppercase letters (we didn't do lowercase...he lost interest)
5/26 sounds (What a suprise!)
4/10 colors (red, green, brown, blue)
6/10 shapes (star, square, circle, heart, oval, and diamond)
He recognized the number 2.

We are so proud of the kids! Josh and I are very surprised with how much they know, especially Malachi who went into preschool not knowing any of those skills and uninterested in learning them. Now mommy will come up with a plan to target those problem areas that they don't know yet! (Sorry...I went teacher mode again!)

Tuckered Out!

2010-01-31T11:41:00.000-08:00

The kid just crashes when he's tired. It doesn't matter where he's at.

Playdate with Tate

2010-01-30T17:14:00.000-08:00

We had a playdate with Tate today...and Jenna and Todd too of course. :) The kids had a great time playing with Aunt Jenna and Todd and I enjoyed spending time with my newest little nephew. I even dressed him up so he could have his first experience with dress up clothes.

Madelynn's new bed

2010-01-29T09:27:00.000-08:00

Last weekend we drove to Saline to buy a bed that we saw on Craigslist. Madelynn's bed was getting really flimsy and wiggled a lot so we were afraid it would collapse. Her new bed is in really good shape and durable. It is a bed that converts from a crib/changing table/dresser to a toddler bed/dresser (which is how we have it set up) and later to a twin bed with a separate dresser. It should last her a long time. The best part of it is that it has 5 drawers in it. We were able to move all of Madelynn's clothing to it and we still have one empty drawer. Madelynn absolutely loves it!

New Pajamas and Silliness

2010-01-27T16:37:00.000-08:00

We had forgotten about the clothing that the kids got for Christmas. We put it to the side and forgot it was there. Last night we dug out the silk long john pajamas from Grandma and Grandpa Ketola and the kids were way too eager to pose for me as I took pictures. Some turned out so cute I had to share them.

Aiden is potty trained!!!

2010-01-26T09:56:00.000-08:00

We can officially say that Aiden is potty trained!

He's been consistantly wearing big boy underwear except for nap and bed time. He even wakes up dry or nearly dry during those times. He is successfully telling us when we has to go when out in public and does it on his own at home. Hurray!!! Way to go Aiden!

Update on the other two...

Madelynn is wearing big girl underwear around the house and was doing quite well, but then she got lazy and is having lots of accidents again. We are still trying to encourage her to use the potty. She is only wearing diapers when it's nap or bed time and when we leave the house.

Malachi hasn't really been potty training. He is mostly content with his diaper on, however just recently he's been tugging at it when after he goes. We are trying to get him to become comfortable sitting on the potty and he's done it a few times. He is currently wearing diapers nearly all the time.

So what does all of this mean for Josh and I???

We are saving a lot of money with having to buy diapers however, I'm not sure where that money is going. :)
We are doing more laundry! (Still cheaper than diapers)
We choose stores that have public bathrooms.
We make more bathroom trips while doing our grocery shopping.
Our trip up north to the U.P. is going to be MUCH longer this year!!! :)

Homework

2010-01-22T17:32:00.000-08:00

Almost the trio's entire life I've been going to school for my masters degree (I know...way to wait until I had triplets!). It's not uncommon for me to disappear into another room with my laptop and do my homework. Now the kids will grab their laptops or LeapFrog text and learn toys and sit down to 'do some homework'. They think it's fun now, but wait until they are teenagers. Three hard working students learning their ABC's.

3 Years, 3 Months, 3 Days...

2010-01-21T16:18:00.000-08:00

What do you do when your triplets turn 3 years, 3 months, and 3 days old? You make cupcakes! Aiden pours the cake mix in.

Madelynn adds the water.

Malachi adds the oil (way too fast for me to snap a picture).

Yummy in my tummy!

Yummy!

Mmmmmm....

The end product.

Our First Sledding Adventure

2010-01-20T10:04:00.000-08:00

A few weekend's ago, we were going stir crazy and decided to try real sledding with the kids for the first time. We went to a local park and had so much fun!

This is what sledding has been for the past two years. Somebody pulling the kids in their infant/toddler sleds, but this year was different! Aiden getting ready for his first trip down the hill.
Madelynn and Malachi getting ready for their first trips down the hill.

On your mark...get set...

Go!

On no...Madelynn wiped out! Oh no...Aiden's butt slid right off his sled! Oh yes...Malachi loved it!

Malachi going down on daddy's belly.

Maddie trying again.

Mommy and Malachi....weeeeeee!

I think we need a bigger sled!!! Samantha, Madelynn, Malachi, and Aiden (back to front).

I convinced Samantha to ski down the hill using my kids' sleds. She made it! I think this is the best picture from that day!

Thanks to Aunt Janet and Samantha for tagging along with us that day. We had a blast! Also, thanks to Aunt Janet for most of the pictures. My camera ran out of batteries after the fourth picture.

No Tubes...At Least For Now!

2010-01-20T09:45:00.001-08:00

Yesterday was Malachi's ENT appointment and what we found out isn't nearly as bad as we'd first expected. Malachi does have thick syrup-like fluid in his right ear which is pressing on his eardrum, not allowing it to work correctly. This is why he has the low tone hearing loss. This hearing loss will NOT get any worse (yeah!!!) and is NOT permanent (yippee!!!).

We could have done tubes again if Josh and I pushed for it, but Dr. Mucha really doesn't want to immediately put him into surgery again. It's only been one week since we noticed Malachi holding a toy to his ear and we don't want rush into anything. We are giving him nasal spray once a day in the hopes that it will help to thin the fluid and his body will heal itself and remove the fluid from his ear. We go back in 6 weeks for another check up and if the fluid remains the same or gets worse, we will look into doing tubes (and who knows what else) at that time.

While we still have concerns about Malachi falling behind, we respect Dr. Mucha for not wanting to go right to surgery, as we don't want to subject our children to surgery if it's not needed. We were assured that it would not get worse, so we hope that he will not fall further behind developmentally. As of today, Malachi is still hearing us when we talk to him, talking like crazy, and singing and dancing to music. If we begin to notice more signs that his hearing is getting worse, then we will go in sooner than the 6 weeks, but for now we are pleased with what we found out and are trying to be patient with our waiting time. Thanks to all who prayed for us...we appreciate it.

Two steps forward...one step back...

2010-01-16T15:52:00.000-08:00

On Wednesday evening, Josh and I noticed that Malachi was once again holding a musical toy to his ear. We looked at each other in shock and concern because this is one of the things he used to do when he was having a hard time hearing. I almost immediately emailed his preschool teacher, speech therapist, and OT to ask if they've noticed anything. Luckily the answer was no. His speech therapist was doing a hearing screening on another child Thursday so she did Malachi also just to ease our concerns. His left ear passed, but the right did not. I was crushed!

We got him in to see our family doctor on Friday and we learned...

no infection
thick syrup like fluid in his right ear
hearing test resulted in hearing loss of low tones
left ear appears fine
most likely needs another tube in the right ear

It was suggested that we make an appointment with Dr. Mucha, our ear, nose, and throat doctor (ENT). That appointment is scheduled for 10:30 on Tuesday. I'm extremely nervous about this appointment for the following reasons...

another surgery (which he'll be put under for)
a second set of tubes most likely means the adnoids come out too
longer, more invasive surgery if adnoids come out
possible over night stay
longer recovery time
time missed from preschool
additional time lost for adjustment when he returns back to school
lack of preschool could result in additional weeks/months behind developmentally

Everyone keeps telling me that "he'll do great", "he'll be fine", "don't worry, it will all work out" however, it doesn't help. The best that can be said and done at this point is prayers. Prayers for healing, understanding, guidance, and strength for Malachi, as well as Josh and I. We want to do whats best for Malachi, but that may mean difficulties in other areas. We will learn more on Tuesday and I'll post an update then.

Hot Cross Buns

2010-01-12T16:38:00.000-08:00

Each month Malachi's preschool teaches a nursery rhyme with the hope that the children will pick up and begin saying them too. So far we've learned Wee Willie Winkie (which is a hard one) and he didn't do well with it. This month's in Hot Cross Buns. Here it is only 2 weeks into the month and he knows the entire rhyme and he sang it to us a couple of nights ago! I know the video is sideways, but thats how I held my camera and didn't realize it until I went to play it back. It's still way too cute and precious to not show it! Hasn't our boy come such a long way!?!?! I'm so proud of him!

Happy New Year!

2010-01-03T14:09:00.001-08:00

We were thrilled to get together with Christine, Josh, George, and Esther and all the kids again this year on New Year's Eve day. We had a great time catching up and the kids played well together for the most part. Oh, and the food was great! :) Then we went to Brenda and Jim's again which has been our tradition for several years. I don't have many pictures, but here are a few cute ones. Madelynn being a princess in her cousin's dress up clothes. She was spinning and being a ballerina!

Aiden made it until 12:15am and then passed out on Uncle Jim. Uncle Jim and daddy really wore him out playing Wii. I swear Aiden is better than any of us.

Malachi, daddy, and Madelynn right before I drove us all home. They lasted until about 1:15am. I'm shocked that my kids made it that late. I didn't expect them to make it past 10pm! At least they let us sleep until 9am the next morning.

***By the way, I made 4 posts today so keep scrolling down when you're done here.***

Catching up on sleep

2010-01-03T13:50:00.000-08:00

This was just too stinkin cute not to post. Josh took pictures of all of us catching up on our sleep one afternoon. The holidays just caught up to all of us! Madelynn in her bed.

Malachi on the couch.

Aiden, mommy, and Tugger in mommy's bed.

The kids still very much need naps, but are getting really bad about laying down. We resorted to separating them all over the house. Looks like it worked!

Christmas Day

2010-01-03T13:17:00.001-08:00

Since the crowd for Christmas day was smaller this year, we opted to have everyone at our house this year. While there was a bit more added stress of preparing for the meal, it was so nice to just be able to wake up and let the kids play. In past years, we had to rush off to any number of places and it gets so hectic. The kids enjoyed being able to stay in their pajamas for awhile and playing with their toys. Josh, my mom, and I also got to sit around a bit and drink coffee and just enjoy the morning before everyone came over. I can't wait until we get a bigger house so we can claim Christmas day every year! Santa brought them mini-quads and their stockings. Malachi got Lightening McQueen, Madelynn got Tinkerbell, and Aiden got Handy Manny. They loved driving them in the house although there were several traffic jams.

Malachi on his "car" as he would call it.

Aiden nearly took out the broiler door on our oven. He rammed right into it and got his bumper stuck on the door handle. I had to pry them apart!

Madelynn taking a break....princesses have to do that you know....

Grandma and Grandpa Ketola got them guitars. Lessons in the future???

Aiden already knows what to do. He is so musically inclined!

And in true Princess Maddie style, she got a pink one! She was sure to let the boys know it was hers too!

Grandma and Grandpa Ketola also got the kids a drum set to share. They love it! I think every kid needs to have a drum set like this! We have a whole band at our house now. Aiden also got a musical set from Aunt Brenda and Uncle Jim which has given us many added instruments in our group. Give us a few weeks and maybe we'll be ready to do paid gigs!?!?!?

Christmas Eve

2010-01-03T12:58:00.000-08:00

Christmas this year was a blast! We have a tradition of opening presents on Christmas Eve so they got to open the majority of the things we had for them. This was the first year that the kids actually did the opening themselves. Josh and I didn't open a single present that belonged to them...hurray! Malachi is excited that he got a Leapfrog Text and Learn so he won't have to steal Aiden's anymore.

Madelynn loved the Crayola backpack. She put it on right away and wore it for awhile. I don't think she was really even aware of the crayons, markers, chalk, and more inside of it.

Aiden and all of his loot. His favorite for the night...the drum set we got him. Nothing else mattered for quite some time.

Madelynn and her pile. She was so excited that she got a huge assortment of the Little People princess and fairy lines. Also, notice that she's wearing a tutu...pretty much every outfit these days includes one of those unless she's got a dress on. Oh, but if it's a dress she doesn't like, then she'll wear a tutu over it. Such a princess!!!

Merry Christmas from the Ketola triplets!

Triplets Everywhere!

2009-12-22T09:40:00.000-08:00

Why is it that I never noticed things that happen in threes before I had the triplets. It's kinda like when you get a new car, you suddenly see that everyone is driving the same kind. Now I notice little things EVERYWHERE!

I was only about 2 months along when I first had one of these experiences. As a Kindergarten teacher in our district, I participate in screening our incoming kindergarten students for the following year. There was a set of triplets that were being screened that year. How ironic, right? I was lucky enough to talk with their mom and she gave me contact information for the Mothers of Multiple group that is nearest our town.

Then there were the triplet goats and pigs at the fair over the summer. I'm sure I was the only one walking around taking pictures of them simply because they were triplets!

At our recent trip to Children's Wonderland, I had a couple more of these 'triplet moments'. I have been to Children's Wonderland for many years, as it was something that my parents took me to when I was young, but I've never noticed the triplet connection.

This is one of my favorite displays at Children's Wonderland. I can remember this display from when I was a child, but I don't remember the triplet bunk beds. Isn't it funny how that would stand out now! Do you think our house is big enough for triplet bunk beds? I have a suspicion that Malachi would be the one on top kissing the ceiling! :)

Triplet mice sleeping in a match box. I can remember when ours were first born and we used to put them in the bouncy seats together. It looked very similiar to this.

And finally you have my triplets. This was at Children's Wonderland as well.

Family Day at Preschool and Illness

2009-12-18T10:40:00.000-08:00

Wednesday was family day at Malach's preschool. Josh and I took all three kids there for the day and we had a great time. We got to see how the Malachi goes throughout his schedule and how he interacts (or doesn't) with his classmates. He's doing really well and we're so proud of him, but it seems that he is still playing along side of the other kids. It's only been three weeks and we expect it to get better. We're pretty positive about his improvements!

Aiden and Madelynn had fun too and they (for the most part) blended right in and followed along. We did find that 3 hours was TOO LONG for us though. Aiden and Madelynn became over stimulated and Aiden began to cry and whine. So much so that I had to force him into his coat and carry him to the car. :(

Over all it was a great time and we look forward to next month's family day. Except I think we might send Malachi for the full day and the rest of us will just stop in for an hour or so. :)

Unfortunately, at about 6pm that night, Madelynn and Malachi started vomitting...alternating about every half hour. Josh and I kept rushing them to the bathroom, while the other one cleanedd up the mess. Aiden didn't vomit, but had it coming out the other end. Poor kids! :( Luckily it only lasted until about 2am. Malachi had to miss school for the first time on Thursday because we were concerned to send him after vomiting and sadly he missed his Christmas party. At least he doesn't realize he missed it. :(

Lights Set To Music

2009-12-15T10:31:00.000-08:00

The Toledo Zoo has one display that the lights flash to the music that plays. The kids loved this part. I got a short video of Aiden and Malachi dancing to it. Sorry it's dark, but it was dark outside so it's the best I could do on my camera.

The Lights Before Christmas

2009-12-15T10:24:00.000-08:00

In addition to Children's Wonderland, we visited the Toledo Zoo for the Lights Before Christmas as well. They kids were much more into it than last year and they loved the musical lights. Madelynn in the bee hive. We warmed up in the children's area.
Also in the children's area, the kids got to be birds in a nest.

Malachi and Madelynn with mommy.

Don't they look excited to be bundled up and out in the cold?!?!?

Children's Wonderland

2009-12-15T10:04:00.000-08:00

We went to Children's Wonderland in Toledo on Saturday. It was smaller than usual since they moved it to a different location at the last minute, but I'm excited that they got it up and going and we were able to go. Grandma Ham with the trio. And yes, that's what the kids call her.
The trio in front of a pretty tree. Group shots are difficult so the fact that they are all looking the same way is a great accomplishment.

Looking at the elves.

Malachi and Madelynn rode the train. Aiden wanted nothing to do with it.

2009-12-03T10:33:00.000-08:00

Here are some recent conversation from our, now very talkative, children...

We were driving by Kohl's when this conversation happened.

Aiden: "That Kmart mommy"

Sharon: "No, that's Kohls, baby"

Aiden: "Kohl's"

Madelynn: "Kohl's Baby....Kohl's Baby!"

I think from now on it will always be Kohl's Baby! :)

*****

Josh and I were sitting at the table when Madelynn approached me whining. She says, "I burped on my cup." Josh and I just looked at each other. Then she yells at us and says, "NOT FUNNY!"

*****

Malachi (rubbing his head), "My butt hurts."

Sharon, "Thats not your butt."

Madelynn (patting Malachi's butt), "This is your butt."

*****

I was getting clothing set out for the kids last night and Madelynn was helping.

Sharon, "will you get me a pair of socks for Aiden?"

Madelynn, "okay." She hands me socks for her.

Sharon, "okay, you can wear these with your outfit, but I need a pair for Aiden."

Madelynn (looking at me like I'm stupid), "no mommy, Aiden's fine."

*****

"I FUN"

2009-12-01T18:38:00.000-08:00

Malachi seems to be enjoying preschool and his teacher says he is adjusting great...better than they expected. Today when he got off the bus, he told Diann (our nanny) "I FUN"! That's something that he's never said before. He's been in such a great mood the past two nights and keeps repeating, "I fun...I fun....I fun..." I love that my boy is having a great time going to school. It makes me feel a ton better about the choice we made.

**I hope to get some video of Malachi saying this, but ran out of time tonight. I'll try to get it tomorrow and add it in.**

Malachi's First Day of Preschool

2009-11-30T09:54:00.001-08:00

Today was Malachi's first day of preschool and he did great! There were no tears at all (from him). He went with the flow of things and seemed to adjust very well. We're excited that it went well for him and I'm hoping he'll be excited about going back. He'll go 4 days a week from now until the end of June. Only a few tears from me, mainly because transportation screwed up and Malachi didn't have a carseat. They wanted him to sit on a regular bus seat for the ride since they 'forgot' the seat. Seriously....anyone who knows Malachi knows he won't SIT on the seat without being strapped in! Anyways, I think we've got it taken care of so tomorrow should go better. Malachi in his new 'first day of preschool' outfit. Cars....his favorite! He was playing with a candy cane (part of our Christmas decor).
Malachi on the bus for the first time. He was a little hesitant about getting on, but did well. This was a first for him. He'll ride the bus to and from school everyday, unless mommy has a day that I have to report later and then I'll drop him off. :)

Aiden and Madelynn saying bye to Malachi. They were great about it and very excited for him. I'm hoping they'll adjust to him being gone just as well as Malachi did today.

I am thankful for...

2009-11-29T13:47:00.000-08:00

In honor of Thanksgiving, I thought I'd share a few of the many things I am thankful for.

I am thankful for...

my husband. I couldn't imagine a better person to be with. He's a great person, loving husband, awesome dad, and my best friend.
my children. The struggles that we endured seem so small now. We're blessed to have three beautiful babies (well...not so much) who truly light up our world. I can't imagine life without them.
my family. I'm so fortunate to have parents (in-laws too) and siblings who love me and support me unconditionally.
the house we live in, although small, it's more than some have. Also, for the clothing, food, and all the 'extras' we are lucky enough to have. Sometimes we take these things for granted, but know how blessed we really are.
my job. I'm fortunate that I have a great job that allows me to help support my family and even spoil the kids once in awhile.

I'm so fortunate...

Happy Thanksgiving to all.

Family Pictures

2009-11-24T06:52:00.000-08:00

This past Saturday we had family pictures taken. We took some at Island Park and then some at home. They turned out amazing! I responded to an add on Craigslist (because I'm a Craigslist-aholic) and met a really great photographer, Jamie. She was patient with the kids, two of which refused to take naps that day, and also with Josh and I as we tried to keep the kids still and where she wanted us. She spent way more time with us than was scheduled and was great about it. While I don't yet have the picture disk to load them on here, you can view a small portion of them on her blog at http://www.jamiewardphotography.com/. Enjoy!

Toddler Group Graduation

2009-11-20T09:52:00.000-08:00

This past Wednesday was our last toddler group day. I'm sad that it's over because these women have been amazing! They've changed our family is a great way. Words cannot express how we feel... Madelynn getting her certificate with Lisa.
Aiden with Lisa.
Malachi with Lisa.

A group shot of all the amazing women who have changed our children's lives. From left to right...Michelle, Madelynn, Stacey (in the back), Ritz holding Malachi, Lisa, and Aiden.

Malachi will be starting preschool on November 30th. We are very fotunate that Michelle and Ritz will continue to work with him in his new preschool class. That was one of the reasons we chose that classroom. Aiden and Madelynn will continue to stay home with our nanny and do preschool with her.

So, for now...we have the next week to enjoy being a family who doesn't need to run anywhere right after work. It gives me 10 days for me to prepare to give my little boy away to someone else 12 hours a week....sniff...sniff...

Malachi's going to preschool

2009-11-12T07:51:00.000-08:00

Well, it's official....We had Malachi's IEP yesterday and he will be starting preschool on November 30th. We are lucky enough that he will have a great teacher, who I know from her kids being in elementary school, and the same speech therapist and occupational therapist that he's been seeing in toddler group. It will be a huge adjustment for all of us, but I'm sure he'll do great!

60 Teeth = No Cavities

2009-11-09T16:45:00.000-08:00

We went to the dentist today and the kids did GREAT!

Madelynn was first with no problems. She got her teeth cleaned and counted with no problem.

Malachi was next, and although slightly hesitant at first, got everything done with no major issues.

Aiden was last and started off really apprehensive, but after I gave him his trusty blanket, we were on our way. Then.....he experienced a little gagging fit (because he inherited that from his mommy) and after that it was screaming and crying for the remainder. We did manage to get his top teeth cleaned and she scraped at his bottom ones a tiny bit. At least this time he sat in the chair which is WAY more than he did the first time we were there.

So, each of the trio has 20 teeth and shouldn't get any until they are about 6 years old. The 6 year molars will come in then and the rest of their teeth will begin to loosen up.

No cavities for any of them. I guess it pays to limit their sugar intake! :) They each got their picture on the 'no cavity' wall, as well as a new toothbrush, pencil, and sticker. Overall, it was a great experience and I couldn't have asked for more cooperative children.

Why???

2009-11-06T11:08:00.000-08:00

Why is it that everytime I ask Malachi for a hug and kiss, he does this????? Then he gives his daddy a normal kiss. Malachi then laughs at me and refuses to give me a kiss.

Hurray for Madelynn!

2009-11-05T10:54:00.000-08:00

As of October 28th, Madelynn has officially graduated from speech therapy. We're super proud of her and love that she is talking so much. She's progressed even more since she stopped going to her weekly therapy. We'll miss Miss Chris. She opened a new world for Maddie. A world where she is able to express herself with words and sentences.

3 Year Well Baby Visit

2009-11-03T07:40:00.000-08:00

The kids had their well baby visit right after their birthday and are doing really well. It was nice to not have shots that day...the first well baby visit without them. They were such big kids that day. They stood on the scale, got measured, and even had their blood pressure taken with a regular (kid sized) bp cup. Here are their stats...

Malachi:
Weight: 34.9 pounds (85th percentile)
Height: 36 3/4 inches (25th percentile)
B.P.: 80/60

Madelynn:
Weight: 33.2 pounds (75th percentile)
Height: 36 3/4 inches (25th percentile)
B.P.: 84/60

Aiden:
Weight: 35.3 pounds (90th percentile)
Height: 36 3/4 inches (25th percentile)
B.P.: 99/62

Everyone was given a clean bill of health. No worries of illness at this point! Yahoo!!!

Making Pear Sauce

2009-11-02T10:46:00.000-08:00

My dad has several pear trees in his yard and his yard becomes overwhelmed with pears. My mom has canned soem for us the past couple of years, but we still had to many that Josh decided to get creative. He decided to make pear sauce. You know...like applesauce, only with pears. The kids and I chipped in and we ended up with several bags to put in the freezer for this winter. Aiden helping.
Malachi helping.

Madelynn helping.

Part of the finished result. Yummy!