Team Theobald

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T13:38:00.000-08:00

Dearest Family and Friends,

Merry Chirstmas and Happy New Year from our clan to yours! This year finds us even more settled in and in love with our home in Louisiana. Any of the little details we wish would change, are just that ... small details. All in all the big picture is great, and full of blessings.

Ethan, 11 this year has left behind the ranks of Cub Scouts and dove in head first to the world of Boy Scouts. He attended summer camp this summer in North Carolina (without Mom or Dad), and enjoyed himself immensly. While at camp he completed enough requirements to advance three full ranks in scouting, and experienced white water rafting for the first time. In day to day life this meant, he came home knowing basic first aid, knowing basic food safety and how to cook some basic dishes, and knowing more knots than I knew existed. I am positive there are many skills he learned that I left out, but those are the ones I notice most on a day to day basis. This is his second year at St. John Berchmans which is now Berchmans Academy. 5th grade has been a big transition, but he has handled it well. Rhett and I are proud of his growth as a student, and a young man. Other than scouts, Ethan played soccer and is playing basketball this year. Ethan has a passion for history, if you spent just a little bit of time with him a convesation about the revolutionary war, war tactics or various weapons would likely be topics of discussion.

Aiden, 10 this year has also entered the world of Boy Scouts. Because of age however, he didn't begin Boy Scouts until November. He attended winter camp in Louisiana over Thanksgiving break. Ethan was also scheduled for winter camp, but was unable to attend because of illness. I think this actually turned out to be a good thing, and allowed Aiden to experience his first away camp without big brother. He really enjoyed himself, and also came home anxious to share many of the things he learned. Berchmans Academy is a great place for Aiden. He enjoys his school, his friends and all of the activities that go along with school and friends. Soccer and basketball also occupy Aiden's time. Aiden keeps Rhett and I on our toes, and laughing. He has a spirit of joy, and is always pushing boundaries.

Aly, 8 this year spends alot of time being the little sister. The little sister role has her tagging along to many practices and games. Lucky for Rhett and I, she typically does this with a smile on her face. The soccer field remains one of her favorite places. As a second grader, she has begun to enjoy reading for pleasure, and does well in all of her classes. If you asked her she would tell you she loves math, and "despises" french.

Rhett is still working for PHI, as he was last year. He serves as the committee chair for the boy's boyscout troop, participates in the Dad's club at school, and is an assistant coach for Aiden's soccer team. His role as Dad is the one that occupies most of his time and energy.

I am still working for a local non profit. I left for a short period of time and took a full time position doing case management. We quickly decided that a full time job, as well as full time graduate student wasn't condusive to my most important job as Mom. Now I am working about 35 hours a week, and maintaining a full time load in Grad school. I am officially half way done with my Masters degree. Our current plan is for me to finish in May of 2013. My work schedule will likely change some during 2012 as I start clinicals and have to dedicate more time to my school work. The further into my Masters program I get, the more I enjoy it. I am enjoying my time at McNeese, am blessed by great professors who are truly interested in mentoring their students, and am thrilled that the University has a top notch autism/developmental disabilities clinic in which I will get to complete my clinical training. 2012 will take me to several conferences in which I try to get a handle on the things like insurance billing, setting up a private practice, and some specialized therapy techniques. Rhett is nothing but supportive, and is actively participating in making a plan for what happens after graduation.

We just returned from 10 days away as a family. Rhett and I for the most part shut off our cell phones, and enjoyed our time with just the 5 of us. The kids and I spent a few days with extended family before returning home. We are still cocooning at home, knowing that break will soon end and our time will again be dictated by the commitments of life. It seems cliche to remark how fast time passes, but it truly just disappears. I spend my days as a Mom trying to savor every moment with my growing, evolving children.

Rhett and I hope all of you are enjoying your days, and that 2012 will be one of blessings for all of you!

Love,
Amy and Rhett
Ethan, Aiden, and Aly
Theobald

Happy May Day

2011-05-01T14:08:00.000-07:00

Spring has definetly sprung in our house. The kids all head back to school tomorrow after a restful Spring Break. We spent last weekend on the Florida Beaches, between a resort we love to stay at (that feeds kids for free) and sand that resembles sugar we are grateful to have such great beaches within driving distance. Last summer in Hawaii, we were in awe of the beauty of the mountains so close to the beach and it's unique terrain ... but disappointed with the beaches. Gravelly sand, and huge unswimmable waves just aren't our thing. Last weekend we rented a boat and headed out to a small island offshore, and the kids had a blast snorkeling near the shore, and swimming off of the boat as well. We all came home refreshed, and a little crispy ... our only regret that we couldn't stay a few more days.

Aiden and Ethan both earned their Arrow of Light in Cub Scouts. For Ethan this signifies his time to cross over from Cub Scouts into Boy Scouts. We have been preparing for him to crossover for the last year or so. Rhett and I were pretty thoughtful about the Boy Scout troop he would be joining. Each troop has it's own personality, made up not only by who is leading it, and the boys involved with it... but also by the activities they do, and how often. The variance is huge, and we had more than 5 choices. Since the boys have both expressed the desire to continue with scouts all the way until they earn their Eagle Scout, Rhett and I wanted to try our best to put them in the troop that would be the best fit for their likes and personalities. So we were thrilled to find a troop that Rhett really clicked with the male leaders (I m a firm believer this is BOY scouts, so I am supportive behind the scenes) , that is super active (this may come back to bite me :) ), that is large enough to have a stable group to be active, that routinely has boys make Eagle Scout .... and one thing not necessarily on my list but an added benefit is that they are starting a venturing group within the troop so as the boys are old enough they will have access to High Adventure activities. Boy Scouts is a whole different world than Cub Scouts and really focuses on independence and self reliance. So the leaders ask the parents to back off a bit, and allow the boys to learn to depend on themselves. For us this means, Ethan will begin packing himself for trips, he will learn how to cook for himself when he is camping, he will learn to work with his peers to pitch his tent, he will work with his peers to plan the menus when he camps, he will learn first aid skills. All of these things while a little scary for Mom are life necessities, and fit with our goal of wise freedom. (Now do you see why we were so thoughtful about the leaders of the troop?) So as a new Boy Scout Ethan will be attending summer camp in North Carolina with his troop this summer, and will get to do some fun things like white water rafting! Ethan is excited, and Aiden a little jealous that he is not yet old enough to crossover to Boy Scouts. Aiden's turn will come in 6 months, but patience is a tough thing for a 9 year old!

Last month I started a new job. I left a part time position, and took a full time position. After my 90 days of training I will be able to work from home quite a bit, and have flexibility that will allow me to still be involved with kids activities at school during the day! It's the first time since Ethan was born that I have worked a traditional full time job, so it's been a bit of an adjustment. We are all excited however, that after June I ll be able to have more flexibility. I will also continue to work on my Masters degree, which I am enjoying.

We spend alot of time these days outdoors. Enjoying the mild spring weather, before the heat and humidity will keep us inside. The basketball goal, and our homemade kickball "field" are a few of our favorite things!

Yay, it's Month 2 of 12

2011-02-02T16:57:00.000-08:00

It's finally Feb. which means spring is near! Tonight, we are hunkered down for a winter storm, which is all very comical to us because we ve lived aways above I-10 for significant periods of time. I however, am happy to play along! I make sure the dogs have extra food, the pipes are taken care of, make a nice big gumbo, and bake some bread! I welcome the schools closing with open arms, and am looking forward to an unplanned free day with three of my favorite people tomorrow. If it does snow, I will rush the kids outside demanding that they enjoy it before it melts. When picking up the kiddo's from school today, I noticed all the horses had on their coats, and the barn keeper was bringing them in loads of fresh hay.
They will all be warm and well fed.

Last month I started parent-child journals with the kids. It's been fun to write notes to each other daily. It gives them that chance to express things to me that we may not find the time to talk about with the whole family around. I tend to gush all of the good things I feel in my heart about them onto the page. With the boys though I find that in the journal they will write me back and say thanks, or I love you too ... where if I said it out loud they would groan and roll their eyes. It's been nice, I feel like I get a little piece of individual attention with each one everyday!

New Year Luck?

2011-01-23T15:13:00.000-08:00

On January 1st Rhett skeptically ate a large helping of greens and black eyed peas, as did I. I wasn't about to be the one to insure a year of bad luck by not eating the appropriate foods. So far there is no evidence that it helped our luck any. The first part of January has been rough around here ... There's been car trouble, an IPhone thats screen shattered, a television that broke, doggie drama, and kids whose clothes aren't able to handle their enthusiastic play. Perhaps however, it has allowed me to exercise my perspective. None of these things that broke were/are absolute necessities. The car is the closest thing to a necessity, and Rhett and I had already been trying to sharpen our self sustainability skills by researching and being able to fix our own cars. So Rhett repaired our car for $1.78 and 30 minutes of his time, the quote from the shop was $150 dollars minimum. Thank you Lord for my resourceful Hubby! The biggest victory I suppose is being able to keep a sense of humor about it all. My second semester of grad school started this week, and I am excited about my classes. I m crossing my fingers and toes that Feb. is less traumatic in our household!

Sadness

2010-12-29T20:11:00.000-08:00

I keep this blog to keep others who are far away "updated" so to speak on our lives. I however, rarely if ever have blogged without self censoring. I find myself uncomfortable with being vulnerable, and putting feelings of frustration, anger, or confusion into writing. The fear I suppose is that I may at some point regret what I wrote. So this entry is a new thing for me ... I have had a tugging on my heart for a while, at least a month to write about these topics.

I ve always loved Christmas time. It's my favorite time of year. I love all that goes with it, the decorations, the traditions, the lights. When Rhett and I were dating, I remember us scouring the local wal mart for the cheapest tree we could find. Then we made ornaments, and garland. The entire month of December we would make hot chocolate and drive around looking at Christmas lights. It's just a great time of year! Since the loss of my Godfather in 2007 I ve struggled to find that same excitement. The motions are still the same as before he was gone. It's such a weird thing to articulate ... I am filled with joy and sadness at the same time. My joy comes in the experiences we have with our little family that are driven by the purpose of the season. The sadness however, makes me really want to withdraw from the activities that seem more superficial ... the office Christmas party, the professional open houses I needed to attend for networking purposes all hosted under the theme of Christmas. My brain just isn't able to focus, and make cheerful small talk. Perhaps it is the awareness that the joy with those we love can be fleeting. Let this serve as a warning, unless your one of my children or my hubby I m not all that fun to be around during Christmas. I wonder if that will change in the years to come.

So let me tell you some of the joy we experienced this Christmas Season. It is so much more fun to talk about the good, rejoicing in God's Grace is a great thing. On December 15th Aly participated in her school Christmas program (as she has the last 2 years) now being a big first grader she is no longer a barn yard animal, but a candle holder. The program as always was a blessing, and true sincere expression of the gift that our children are. On December 16th (the 3rd Anniversary of Uncle Jerry's passing) the first song on the radio that morning as I drove the kids to school was I Can Only Imagine, which was played at his funeral. Ethan exclaimed "It's Uncle Jerry's song, he's still with us!" Yep, he is ... Thanks God for the reminder. That evening the boys participated in their first Christmas program, since this is their first year at their school. Joyful is the best description of being able to witness the sweet spirits of 100 little boys singing about the gift of Baby Jesus!

On Christmas eve I sent the kids in to get dressed. Aiden came out in the red plaid shirt and black pants I had bought him for the evening, but had added his bright blue and mint green tie from Easter and his navy suit coat. I said "Aiden you don't really need your jacket with that shirt" He interrupted me and said "Mom I wanted to look my very best for Jesus" I had nothing more to say, but said a little prayer thanking God for such a sincere child! The best part, the priest stopped on his way into the church and complimented Aiden's tie. Like everyone else we exchanged gifts, but it was our time together that was more of a gift.

2010 has been a rocky one, but I continue to be held in the Lord's peace and providence. I am grateful for the faith he has given me!

It's Christmas

2010-12-24T14:04:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas from The Theobald Family. We are all doing well, and enjoying our time together as a family. Somehow this year I just never pulled together a Christmas Card, I do however have some words I want to share with others so watch your mailboxes for New Years Cards.

This year once again finds us at home South Louisiana. We adore the community in which we live, and consistently are finding more and more ways to stay out of "town" and shop, eat and live within the small community we live in.

Ethan, is 10 this year. After a year of homeschooling joined the school community at St. John Berchmans. He loves his new school, is a successful student, and for the most part a joy to be around. This year he played soccer for the first time, and is looking forward to the spring season. Archery, camping and boy scouts are things he gladly fills his time with.

Aiden, is 9 this year and also joined St. John Berchmans. He too is a great student, enjoys his friends and school, and keeps Rhett and I smiling and on our toes. He was also able to play soccer for his school this year with Ethan, and proved to do pretty well at goalie. Aiden is an intense sports fan, and catches his favorite teams (the Yankee's, the Saint's and the Steelers) whenever they play on TV. Baseball season last year was a delight for him, and he's ready to play again!

Aly, is 7 this year. She remains at the Academy of the Sacred Heart. In celebrating her 7th birthday she remarked that she had been an "ASH" girl more than half of her life! Somehow I suspect she'll always be an "ASH girl". This was her 3rd year playing soccer, and certainly won't be her last. She loves it, and when it is not soccer season, she wants to know how long until soccer season.

Rhett is working in the IT industry still, and is grateful to be employed. He finds his enjoyment in his life as a Dad. Whether it is weekend activities, a pick up football game in the back yard, or helping with homework ... our three blessings absorb the majority of his time and energy.

I am working part time for a non profit organization, and enjoying feeling like what I do matters. Of course, my role as Mom still occupies most of my thoughts and energy. My perfect Friday during the day is spent helping out at the kids schools. My role as student has changed a bit, as I have completed my Bachelors and am now working on my Masters.

We will be sneaking away later next week for 3 nights of camping. I am looking forward to ringing in the New Year next to a campfire just the 5 of us! I hope our update finds all of you and yours happy, and healthy!

Love,
Amy and all

Thankful

2010-11-22T14:24:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for:

    Three amazing children, who all arrived in my life in God's perfect timing, who are such individuals there is no doubt we were all created with purpose in mind.

     my husband who is an amazing Dad, and even after 11 years is still my best friend.

     living in a place that just feels like home.

     the Oaks.

    passion. I am passionate about my job, my field of study, and my future career.

    peacefulness. We live in an area that is peaceful, and serene. There is no road rage taking the kids to school, rather lambs grazing, horses playing, and occasionally a loose calf in the middle of the road.

   community. Our families lives are better because we are part of a community.

    Teachers who hug students.

    My Father.

    The time I got to spend with those who are no longer here.

     Library Friday's.

Fieldtrip day

2010-11-17T19:47:00.000-08:00

Today Ethans class went to St Josephs diner and helped serve meals to the homeless. This is a diner I ve volunteered at several times before, with Americorps and different service groups I ve been apart of. I was curious to see what his experience was like. When he got in the car the first thing he told me was that he hadn't eaten the lunch I had packed for him, because the teacher had told him to leave it at school because they would eat what they helped to serve at St. Josephs. He then went on to tell me how great lunch was, but how he felt sad that he was eating food that maybe should ve gone to someone who really needed it. More I am sure will come out about what he saw and thought about the day, in the days to come. That's how Ethan (and I think other boys) works, he will share his thoughts when he has the time to process and apply them.

Tonight we had Cub Scouts, I really like our new Cub Scout pack. It's just another chance for the boys to be with classmates, and Aly enjoys the other boys sisters. It's super nice that they plan it with the meal included so it's a great time of fellowship, and makes it super convienent. One of the scouts was telling us about his recent trip to DC and the Smithsonian. I ve always loved DC and all of the exhibits around it. I m ready to do another road trip with the kids this summer, and would love to include DC in that! Hopefully, time and finances will allow for that!

Everyday

2010-11-13T11:13:00.000-08:00

On the way home from school on Thursday we came across 4 huge black birds in the road, from afar they almost looked like Turkeys ... While we were still thinking they were Turkeys Ethan said "Mom I have to put my bow in the car so that next time we see Turkey's I can shoot one" On driving closer we realized however, that they were vultures. As we drove up they flew off. We drove past and Aiden said "Wait for there to be that many vultures something had to of died, what was it you think?" So I turned the car around and parked off the side of the road so we could go see. Turns out it was an Armadillo, and a Skunk. Aly and I were completely grossed out, but the boys were quite satisfied to know what had attracted the vultures. This was just down the road from our house, and just adds another species of suspects to what possibly killed our baby chickens last year.

Holy Cow!

2010-11-09T07:38:00.000-08:00

It's hard for me to believe it is already November. It has finally cooled off here, and I am enjoying the feeling of fall. Since I last blogged a few things have changed, but much is still the same. No that's inaccurate nothing is the SAME, everything has evolved. Although, I am still a Mother to 3 ... those 3 are not the same as they were yesterday, or even one minute ago. God's grace embodies them and they constantly grow and change ... it's amazing to watch. Some may feel that's sappy or sentimental, but really what better physical evidence of the Lords providence than the hearts and minds of children.

Ethan and Aiden are back "in school" ... meaning they are in a school outside of the home. They are at the St. John Berchmans which is on the same campus as Academy of the Sacred Heart where Aly has now attended more than half of her life. When I drop all of them off in the morning I leave with a smile on my face because I know that they are where they need to be. Their love of learning, love of their teachers and classmates, and sheer delight daily is evidence to me that all is well. The school is unique, unlike others in our area... I d venture to say it's one of a kind. The school is lead by 5 goals of education:

Encourage a personal and active faith in God.
Hold a deep respect for intellectual values.
Educate to a social awareness which impels to action.
Educate to the building of community as a Christian value.
Educate to a personal growth in an atmosphere of wise freedom.

The effect of the goals can be ascertained by any observant soul who steps foot on the campus, or interacts with it's student body. Rhett and I are grateful to have the kids in a school that is on the same page as what we ultimately want for our children. To live out the purpose for which God created them. Day to day we are doing all the same things that any young family with three kids is doing. All three kids played soccer this year, it was a successful season. For Ethan and Aiden it was their first season, and they enjoyed playing as part of the school team. For Aly it was her 3rd season, and she again enjoyed playing with her classmates. Rhett and I enjoy the school athletic community, and the time we get to spend watching them play.

The boys have joined the Cub Scout troop at their school and are looking forward to this being their last year of Cub Scouts and moving on to Boy Scouts.
The boys have made new friends and enjoy all of the social events that come with that. I am nearing the end of my first semester of Graduate school, and am really enjoying all that I am learning.

In April, we welcomed two puppies to the family. Their names are Grand and Coteau. A family at Aly's school was kind enough to give them to us, and we all have really enjoyed them. They are half lab half Australian Shepherd. Cute as can be, and smart! In case your wondering about their names, Grand Coteau is the small town in which the kids' school is located. It's a special place, I can't really articulate why ... it just is. So Rhett named the puppies and it ended the argument that the kids were having over the names!

Life as Usual

2010-04-14T21:39:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we had the pleasure of spending the day with Troy and Bonnie, and their three children Orry (who Ethan keeps calling Ozzy) Isaac (who is at that cute almost two age) and Annie (who Ethan thinks should ve been named Tronnie). Above the good company of Troy and Bonnie, it is fun to be around a family who has some commonalities with our own. 6 years ago we had 3 little ones age 3 and under. At that time we were in Idaho, plotting our move. We really had no idea what was next, just knew Idaho wouldn't be the place that we stayed.

Since moving to Louisiana we have always been surrounded by family when we need it most. It's not a daily thing or even a monthly thing sometimes, but our first 3 years here it was always when we had that need .. you know the one that is deep inside that you that you may not even realize is there until it is a filled up after a nice visit with those you love. In the last 2 years those visits have decreased, with my Uncle/Godfather passing away and my Aunt/Godmother moving (to all places Idaho) there were those days where Louisiana began to feel as lonely as Idaho did. Our hearts and spirits however are being filled on a daily basis by the friends that have become more like family. On those days when I have that need for those family members I am missing I end up picking up the phone, and calling one of those people I just need to hear their voice. I am excited that several of those people we miss often we will be getting to spend a week with this summer, all of Rhett's siblings and his parents will be together for several days in July. The kids are excited to see cousins, and I am excited to see the rest of the clan.

Our days are filled with baseball games and theater rehearsals. Ethan is dancing and singing up a storm in preparation for the big show Seussical Jr. Aiden is loving every minute of baseball, and does little else. Aly is happily floating between being the tomboy throwing balls with Aiden and the drama queen practicing songs and dance moves with Ethan. We are embracing the spring, and bracing for the Louisiana summer. I even started putting together our hurricane kit together today. We are planting a garden, working on landscaping, and playing alot of catch outside. There is a possibility of a new member of the family soon, not of the human species.

Held in the Lord's Peace

2010-03-07T16:30:00.000-08:00

As I reported in our yearly update, in November Rhett was laid off. He and I had been praying for guidance regarding his job and my transition from school for about 6 months. A lay off certainly wasn't the answer we were expecting, you could say it wasn't what we were desiring either. After the initial shock wore off (within about an hour) we were both overcome with a sensation of peace. Rhett said to me "you know, I feel ok about this. God will lead us where we are meant to be." So rather than being nervous, anxious and upset during this time we were both blessed with feelings of peace, faith and enthusiasm about what God had in store next. The last 4 months Rhett spent the majority of his time doing what I think he does best, being a Dad. He has helped out at Aly's school, come up with homeschooling projects to do with the Ethan and Aiden, and taken the opportunity to do things like take the kids to the park, to the library, things that he can't do when he is at work all day.

In January we found out what God had in store next for me. I was offered a part time Parent Liason Position with a non-profit organization Families Helping Families. The hours are very flexible, and I get to do something I am very passionate about. Encouraging parents and helping them find resources for their children is not something I ever imagined I would get a pay check for. Earlier this week Rhett was offered a job doing IT stuff for a helicopter company. He started Wednesday, and thinks he is really going to enjoy it.

I am thankful for the blessing of time together we had, but also grateful for the new employment opportunities. When we decided to home school the Boy's this year, part of our motivation was we wanted to have the time to spend with them so that we would truly know what the best choices for them in the future would be. We wanted the hands on chance to assess their strengths and weakness'. Thanks to the blessing of time, Rhett was also able to fully experience schooling with them. So when we sat down to discuss our options for next year, we both had the blessing of the full picture.

I suspect this will not be the last time in our lives that we go through a difficult time. My hope is that when we are faced with difficulty we have the ability to have faith, and rely on God's grace to pull us through.

Can you believe it's March already? Ethan and Aly are enjoying CYT (Christain Youth Theater) and Ethan auditioned and was cast in the musical Seussical Jr. So we look forward to seeing the end result in May. Soccer is back in swing for Aly, and she played her first spring game yesterday. Aiden is excited to try Baseball this year for the first time, it should be starting soon.

Merry Christmas

2009-12-18T19:51:00.000-08:00

For the fifth year in a row we bring you Christmas Greetings from Southern Louisiana. Although, we have relocated homes, we are still in the same community. As we brought in 2009 Rhett and I both knew that this would likely be a year of transition for our family, and boy were we ever right.

2009 brought changes in everyone of our lives.

Much is the same with Ethan and Aiden. They are happy, healthy growing boys who keep us on our toes. As the school year closed last year, we found that although both boys were still academically doing well ;Rhett and I were increasingly concerned about situations within the school they were attending. After much prayer, thought, and conversation we took the leap and decided to homeschool them this year. To our surprise both boys were all for it! It has been an adventure, and I have been pleasantly surprised at just how well it has gone. We signed the boys up for a homeschool swim league that they participated in twice a week, and both are still very active in scouts. I do know that at times they miss having a school community, so our continuing prayer is for guidance in making a good decision for them next year. The boys are enjoying our new place, and becoming quite acquainted with the yard. There are some big plans in the works as far as tree's to plant, forts to build, tunnels to dig, and ramps to construct. It is nice that they are at the age where they take joy in creating and making this place our own, and it is definitely enjoyed by Rhett and I.

Alys life is also much the same, other than her world is ever changing as is the case with every 6 year old little girl. She is still at the Academy of the Sacred Heart. It does my heart good to see her happily bounce out of school every day, greet her teachers with hugs, and know that she is exactly where she needs to be! Soccer season this year couldn't come fast enough for Aly! She enjoyed her season, was very disappointed that we had so many rain outs, perfected her skills and scored quite a few goals. It was a good season, and she is already counting down to spring soccer. She is enjoying her new room, and has no problem keeping up with the boys outside.

I have finally completed my undergraduate coursework, and am gathering grad school applications, applying for jobs, and all of that other fun adult stuff. My year was different in that the boys attended most of my college classes with me this semester. I would have their assignments mapped out and they would do their independent work sitting next to me during class. I was AMAZED at just how supportive ALL of my professors were, none had any issue having the kids in class and most made them feel more than welcome by asking them questions or including them in discussions. Several of my professors expressed to me that they were very pleased that Rhett and I were taking charge of their education, and talked about how disappointed in public education they are. I am still teaching professional development classes at the University, although it has been very slow due to the economy. We are about 50% organized in our new place, but more and more things come together daily. I am enjoying the progress.

Rhett worked the majority of the year at the same company as last year, but was laid off in November due to the economy. It, of course, took us a little by surprise, but in every challenge there are blessings. He is hot on the job hunt, and has had some feedback indicating interviews etc. after the holidays. In his time "off" he has been able to complete alot of our house projects. He has laid new floors, changed out switches, door frames etc. He also has spent quite a few days volunteering at Aly's school. Being a historic landmark, there is always stuff to be done. He joined the Dad's club and has helped out with painting, landscaping, decorating for Christmas, setting up for fundraisers etc. I know he really enjoyed having the time to give, as we are all blessed by the school community at the Academy. Aly was thrilled to see Dad on campus, and wanted him to sit with her at lunch. What a blessing for him to have that time with her, something she will surely remember. The boys have enjoyed having him assist me with their schooling, and I have to say we get it done alot quicker when there is two of us to answer questions.

This summer was much the same in our house, as I once again taught camps. It however, was a little different as the kids and I struck out on a 16 day road trip to take in some sites and visit Rhetts family. We drove from Louisiana to Texas to Kansas to Colorado to Utah to Idaho to Wyoming back to Colorado where we picked up Rhett at the airport and continued on to South Dakota to Nebraska to Oklahoma and finally home. We camped quite at quite a few of the stops, and of course stayed with family in Colorado and Idaho. The kids had a great time visiting cousins and Aunts and Uncles who they dearly miss. When I conceived the idea of the trip many told me I was nuts! I have to say though, I thoroughly enjoyed my time away with the kids. Loved camping with them, and how we developed our own little team to set up camp etc. They each had a job, and did it quite well. If time, finances etc allow I would love to do something similar with them every year. Mount Rushmore was amazing and I was so glad Rhett was able to join us on that part of the trip.

Thanks for taking the time to let me catch you all up on our clan. As soon as I find my USB cord I will upload some family pictures. I hope this finds all of you in great Christmas spirits.

May 2010 be blessed for you and all of yours,
Love,
Amy and Rhett
Ethan, Aiden and Aly

It's SUMMER!

2009-05-30T18:39:00.000-07:00

Wow, it's been SOOOO long since I blogged. I joyously finished up my semester at UL about 3 weeks ago. I had never taken 20 credit hours (that's 6 classes) before...and I hope never to again! It was a long semester, but the outcome grades and all were really good. There are several accomplishments like never having to take history or algebra again that made the semester very worthwhile. The kids finished up school for the year a week ago. Both boys ended on Honor Roll for the year. Ethan had the privilege (note the definite sarcasm) of participating in "High Stakes Standardized Testing" which of course is mandated by No Child Left Behind... so we were all anxiously awaiting those results. He did well. Scoring well above the state average in everything... but scoring a 98% on the reading comprehension portion. The sad reality of standardized testing is that once they test in April the teachers feel like there is nothing left to teach.

The boys have been very active in Boy Scouts and both advanced a rank this year. Ethan will be a WEBLO and Aiden a Bear Scout next year.

Boy Scout trip to Houston Space Center

Aiden at Lake Fausse Pointe State Park.

Since the heat of the Louisiana summer is here we have begun a routine of spending weekends at the University pool. There is no better place to pass the humid days of summer than the pool!

Spring Break this year found the kids and I in Panama City Beach, Florida. A good friend is the morning radio co host on 94.5 KSMB here in Lafayette. Their morning show hit the road for the break, and Ali (my friend) invited us along. We all very much enjoyed the beach, and it left us wanting to go back....SOON!

The first week of our summer break the kids had the chicken pox. All had fairly mild cases, and are fine now. So now the real summer break can begin. We have a busy summer planned. I am taking summer school for the first time ever, as well as teaching summer classes through the University as I have done in summer past. Aiden's mornings will be spent at reading camp at UL, and Aly and Ethan will spend some mornings at daycamp, some at Vacation Bible School...etc. Rhett heard about kidsbowlfree.com where kids can bowl up to two games a day for free...so we've been hitting the bowling alley a few times a week as well. Once summer winds down the kids and I are planning a LONG road trip to visit family and friends.

I am enjoying my time with the kids. There are few dull or quiet moments in our house! Ethan began reading the Harry Potter series shortly after Christmas and is now almost done with book 5. Rhett and I are delighted that he has come to enjoy reading as much as he has. Aiden tends to spend alot of time writing and drawing. He seems to enjoy being creative. Aly is practicing her writing skills, is learning to read and is counting down the days to next soccer season.

We are all happy, and healthy.

Time Marches On

2009-03-13T19:24:00.000-07:00

The last few months have been full one's... I ll attempt to reflect on them, and then within the next week I will post some new pictures of our growing children. Tonight, being a Friday in Lent we went to eat seafood as is somewhat of a family tradition. Sometimes we just do tuna at home, but at least a few times we like to get out and enjoy our local culture. So tonight we did just that. The kids enjoyed learning to peel crawfish...Rhett enjoyed eating the ones I peeled for him, and we all enjoyed the music and company. Rhett had on a Jayhawk t shirt, and in walking to the dance floor met a couple who was from Lawrence but lives in Louisiana now.
The kids are barrelling through life at top speed. My favorite time of day is when they first wake up and are still groggy, they all still come out of their rooms and cuddle with Rhett or I ... it's nice to have my "babies" back for that 5 or so minutes. Our typical day has us all out of the house at 7am and returning home between 6 and 7 pm. Usually the week has passed and it seems that yesterday was Monday...
Boyscouts has been eventful in the last few months for the boys. They both qualified for regionals in the pinewood derby race, and enjoyed competing in that with Rhett's help. This weekend they are headed out of town with boyscouts and I will be joining them later on Sat. we'll all come home on Sun. Aly is playing soccer, and enjoying school and friends.
Rhett is keeping up with work, and being the Worlds Greatest Dad in his downtime. I m taking 20 hours this semester, and trying to finish up my service committment with Americorps.

Wrapping up the year.

2008-12-28T17:07:00.000-08:00

The Christmas "break" is half over, and I m already dreading the end. The last few days have been heavenly, as Rhett and I were both off of work and we had some down time as a family. Today it rained, and rained, and rained. The kids rooms got some much needed attention, and we got some things better organized in hopes that the kids will be able to keep on top of it easier. Knowing that it is highly likely within the next 3 years that we will have to move, we are motivated to try to keep the clutter down. This week my goal is for the kids and I to go through and clear out cabinets that have become catch all's, as well as getting the Christmas Tree taken down. This year we bought a real tree, so we just need to undecorate it and take it to the curb.

About a week before Christmas I went through our everyday dishes and after much thought, discussing it with Rhett, I decided to take the drastic step of getting rid of all but one cup,plate and bowl per person.(I have nice dishes to use when we have guests) I had read an article in one of my Christain Mom magazines that suggested this as an end to the overheaping sink and dish battle, further more a great way to teach kids to do their own dishes...with a natural consequence that if your dish isn't clean you can't eat. Several times the kids have said "Mom where's my dinner?" with my response,"Your dish wasn't clean." The situation has remedied itself within minutes, and no one has gone hungry. Now most of the time after dinner one of the kids ends up washing their and their siblings dishes, they seem to quite equitably take turns and mediate it amongst themselves. I am happy to have an empty sink most of the time!

As we usher in 2009, I m hoping some of our basic household chores can become easier and less of a battle.
So what are your New Years Resolutions?

Christmas Greetings 2008

2008-12-21T19:07:00.000-08:00

Our normal tradition since we became a family is to include a letter in detailing our year and updating everyone on our lives. Last year I didn't write that letter, rather did it in email form. While I don't want to discontinue the letter all together, I find that most all of those interested in our lives come to this blog from time to time.

We bring you Christmas greetings this year again from Louisiana. This is our fourth Christmas in Louisiana, things that were once new to us are now traditions and we feel at home here more than ever. Rhett and I have both changed jobs this year.

Rhett is now the IT manager at a small company here in Lafayette, and I am still teaching very part time at the University's continuing education department, and serving as a part of the Universities Americorp team.

Rhett really seems to enjoy his new position, and we all enjoy his new schedule! I am grateful to not be working nights any longer, and haven't missed the Casino at all! Between school, work and kids I stay super busy...and feel so much better not being sleep deprived! I took more hours this semester than I ever had taken at once (17)...and am getting closer, and closer to being done. My classes are mainly Speech Pathology Classes now, and I really am enjoying them. It is a blessing to be pursuing a degree in a field I enjoy, and am passionate about.

My favorite role however, remains that of Mom! As I watch them grow I wish there was a pause, or a slow-mo button I could use from time to time.

Ethan, now 8, is a third grader in the French Immersion program at Evangeline Elementary. He's quite the reader. He enjoys school, and does well. Boy Scouts, Taekwondo, and playing with his siblings and friends keep him busy outside of school.

Aiden, now 7, is a second grader in the French Immersion program at Evangeline Elementary. He's quite the artist and builder. He too enjoys and excels at school. Boy Scouts, and Taekwondo round out his days as well.

Rhett and I are thrilled with the boy's language skills, and still amazed that they have become bilingual. It did get a little interesting when Ethan's French teacher (from France) gave her opinions on American politics to her 3rd grade class. It provided great dinner time discussion about freedom of speech, and evaluating people perspectives in deciding how valid their points are!

Aly, now 5, is in Pre k at the Academy of the Sacred Heart. She is learning some French this year, so is trying desperately to catch up with her brothers. Soccer and Taekwondo keep her active and busy. There is no place that we can imagine would be any better for Aly than ASH! When we discuss moving in the future, it's a struggle for us to imagine our family anywhere else!

The boys have become quite competitive and are always into something together. Grass stains, hole's in the knee's, and dirt are remnants leftover daily from their time together after school. Aly is right in the mix with whatever they are up to, and at times is the mastermind of it all!

Ethan, Aiden and Aly keep us on our toes and laughing. There are few quiet moments in our home, and many joyful ones. We took several trips as a family this year,to Tennessee, to the beach,and to Disney World. Our day to day lives are so busy that these short respites are enjoyed by all.

Our daily lives are blessed with Friends that have become family. From picking up kids from school, fixing us dinner on days that were just too busy, and just loving and taking care of us when we needed something they've done it all! Rhett and I both are thankful for the blessing of good friends.

We enjoyed snow just a few days ago. We were thankful for the snow, but just as thankful for the 70 degree day that followed it! Cold weather is something that will take getting used to when we move North again.

Although, time with family, and holidays have always been something I treasured ... the loss of my Uncle last December makes me a little more conscious of just how fleeting those moment's can be. I pray that you all embrace all of the moments with loved ones not just during this season, but all year long! I hope the Holiday's are enjoyed by all, and that everyone is healthy and happy for the New Year!

Merry Christmas!

Love,

The Theobald Family

I will be uploading new pictures within the next day or so!

"Normal" Life

2008-11-16T14:21:00.000-08:00

Since I blogged last time, Rhett and the boy's attended their first cubscout camp out. Everyone had a great time! Rhett has become the Den Leader for Ethan's Bear troop, and is enjoying planning and executing all that goes along with that. In fact as I am blogging Rhett and the boys are at skit practice for the Thanksgiving skit. Aly and Rhett attended the annual Father-Daughter brunch at her school. We stay so busy with school, and other activities that we struggle to fit in Taekwondo once a week, but still enjoy it when we make it ! We are enjoying the freedom that Rhett getting off work at 4:30 and me not working overnights gives us as a family, and stay very active together...I m attaching a few pictures of some of our recent activities.

Aly and Daddy before Daddy Daughter Brunch!

Backyard Campout.

Parent Teacher Conference's and Report Cards

2008-10-23T17:13:00.000-07:00

It's that time already. Ethan made all A's and B's with the exception of an 82%C in French Spelling. Aiden all A's and B's which put him on honor roll. As always I am quite present at the Boy's school. Both have great teachers. Ethan's teachers are great, and seem to understand him well. Both are happy with Ethan as a student especially since it is a rare day that he does not have an A in conduct. Aiden's teachers are the same teachers Ethan had last year. I was happy with them then, and I continue to be. I do get notes sometimes saying "Aiden is a very interesting little boy" primarily from the French teacher, not sure what that's about but it is humorous. Aly of course doesn't get grades yet but her parent teacher conference went something like this... Ms.Sonier "Do you have any concerns or question s?" Me, "No, not really." Ms. Sonier "Good, you have no need to be." Me, "Is Aly on track academically, and socially?" Ms. Sonier "She excels at everything we do and I love teaching her!" ... Of course we small talked a little but that was the meat of it. I drop in as often as possible to watch lessons at Aly's school as well, and she is engaged, happy, and challenged. So the generality here is they are all doing well!

Finally...Photopass pictures from our Disney Trip

2008-10-22T07:04:00.000-07:00

Our first photo entering Disney World, about an hour after the kids figuring out where we were going!

What 4 year old little girl doesn't love Princess'?

Aly's first look at herself after being "made over".

Aly is 5!

2008-10-08T20:12:00.000-07:00

Aly, a.k.a Sweetie!

Aly was our smallest baby. Weighing in at 7lbs 13oz.

From the moment she was conceived she was the "little sister."

Each of the boys definitely had their own personalities and quirks from the day they were born, but as infants they were alot alike. When Aly came along, it was a totally different experience. Sleep wise the boys never would sleep in their cribs, Aly craved hers. Nighttime was not the boys favorite time to sleep, from 6 weeks Aly slept all night. So while it seemed that Aly was the "easier" baby, we soon learned that it wasn't a matter of easier...but different! From the time she started talking we realized that with our boys the "hard work" was physical, it was chasing after them, wrestling with them, loving on them, keeping them from climbing the walls...with Aly the "hard work" was and is emotional. Everything is up for discussion or debate. We must analyze every conversation and interaction, and then we must talk about it at least three times!

Being the 3rd she's always been trying to catch up with what the other two are doing. There has never been a time when Aly has understood the practical limits that should apply because of her chronological age.

At age Two and a Half she began Taekwondo, because she decided it was time for her to join class with her brothers. The instructor told her only if she could focus and keep up, that was never a problem. Between age 2 and 3 she climbed her first rock wall, went down adult size waterslides without thinking twice about it, flew about 25 feet in the air attached to a bungee harness.

At age 3 she fell in love with her baby dolls, dressing them caring for them etc. From 18 months or so she has tried to "Mommy" Ethan and Aiden (much to their dismay)!

At age 4 she started school at the Academy of the Sacred Heart. The all girl environment and the small classes have only nurtured her strong will, and soft heart! She is creative, funny, and articulate. She is extremely loving. Often times getting your attention from across the room just to say "I Love You".

People who don't see us alot ask so is she a girly girl or a tomboy. There is no clear cut answer to this. She loves pink and princess' and truly believes she is a princess, but she can hold her own with her brothers, in taekwondo and now on the soccer field. She is aggressive in a competitive situation, but also highly empathetic and compassionate. The boys like most brothers are protective of her, but at times just want her to be quiet! Aloysia means great warrior, which besides the familial connection we picked her name for it's meaning. It is important for women to be strong, and resilient. It is a blessing as a Mom to get the privilege to watch two sweet boys grow into young men, as is it to experience a precious little girl grow into a young woman.

So what are those Theobald's up to?

2008-10-08T20:00:00.000-07:00

I think we have finally settled into the school year. Rhett has been at his new job for about a month, and every day is different and new. He seems to like it alot, and we are enjoying the benefits of a 7-4pm schedule. This semester I am carrying 17hours at the University. We knew it would be alot, and it borders on being too much but alot of the classes I needed were only offered one time a year. Luckily, a few of our friends have pitched in and are helping shuttle the kids from school. I am working for the University still teaching about one class a week, but I ve also been up to something new. I applied last year for the Americorp program, for those that don't know what it is...it is basically a domestic peace corp. In exchange for a very small living allowance, and an education award at the end of your year you commit to a certain number of community service hours ( I committed to 900 hours for the year). The University has an Americorp team and after a slightly lengthy interview process I was chosen to be a part of it. Our service year began Sept. 15th. So far I have worked with Habitat for Humanity, the Senior Olympics, Disaster cleanup, EarthShare Community Shared Agriculture and twice a week I tutor kids that live in the Housing Projects. I am of course the oldest member of the UL team, but I have to say I really enjoy it and the other team members. When we went to EarthShare, I took Ethan with me. He enjoyed pulling weeds, looking for bugs and I think may have even learned something about gardening. I look forward to taking all of the kids with me sporadically throughout the year, and am excited about what is to come! I find it interesting that we are prohibited from doing anything that involves fundraising, political campaigning, or trying to get legislation created or passed..what an interesting concept, making a difference in the community without involving money or politics!

Ethan and Aiden are settled in at school, and looking forward to starting Taekwondo again (we took a two month break while we got settled into school). Aly is enjoying school and is playing soccer for her school team. We are all healthy, happy, and busy.

Rhett and the Boys are headed to their first scouting campout this weekend and all are excited. Aly and I will be having a girls weekend. Next weekend we are headed to Mississippi for a wedding, it will be great to see family!

We all enjoyed our 4 day break in early September, and look forward to the next time we get a chance to do that...not sure when that will be!

Surprise...we're not going to Texas!Our 9/10-9/15 Trip.

2008-09-23T16:45:00.000-07:00

Last year we started something we are hoping will be a family tradition. We gave the kids the option of going on a family weekend trip, in lieu of having 3 seperate birthday parties with all of their friends. We still celebrate with immediate family, and close friends but we just don't do the big party...well they jumped at it. Last year we rented a cabin at a state park and went "camping" and this year we gave them the same option and they again all jumped at it. So we had planned to go to the Great Wolf Lodge in Dallas for a night or two...that was until I was on the internet and I ran across "Free Dining" at Disney. Most who know us know we are big Disney lovers, we spent Spring Break there last year and had a great time. So in passing I said to Rhett "For less than 1500$ we could do Disney" to my surprise he said "Let's do it" I did alot of summer camps this year, so we were able to swing it...but we decided not to tell the kids...so it was a complete surprise. The next few posts will be our Trip report, I like to journal about our trips to be able to remember all of the little details we may otherwise forget!

We planned each day with a seperate occassion in mind. Our first day is Rhett and I's day. The second is Aiden's day. The Third is Aly's day. and our last day is Ethan's day. The activities/restuarants etc. we have picked have been with each of the kiddo's in mind. Rhett and I have had fun planning this!

Leaving town went fairly well. We took everything we would've taken if we were evacuating for a hurricane with us, since when we left on Tue we didn't know where Ike was headed. Right before we all got in the car Rhett says "Bad news guys we lied to you we're not really going to Texas" the kids all said whatever and went to the car... We drove to Tallahassee and got in to our Econo Lodge around 2am Florida time. We were up at 7 and in no time flat we were in the car headed for the World. The kids all slept the night before, so we were wondering how long it would take them to realize we weren't in Texas...well it was the weirdest thing, none of them seemed to look out the windows all morning...it really was strange and not like any of them! Aiden slept most of the morning, Ethan read and Aly did, whatever it is Aly does (talk mostly). We were 55 miles outside of Orlando when Aiden woke up and noticed a green road sign, and said "Hey, where is the Great Wolf Lodge" we said it's in Dallas, he said "then why are we in Florida, theres a sign for Orlando?" Rhett says, "Oh, its Orlando, Tx...just like lafayette,la and lafayette, indiana" Aiden says "Ok" and then gets involved with the toy on his lap, no longer looking outside the windows, or seeing the "FLORIDA Visitors station "signs I swear every mile or so. Why oh Why are there so many FLorida signs in Florida! As we get closer and the WDW road signs start Rhett distracts kids by tickling, jokes, snatching toys etc...anything he could think of!It's 11:22am and we're getting near the famous Walt Disney World arch, and I say "Well guys I have some bad news, yesterday when Daddy told you we weren't going to Great Wolf Lodge he wasn't lying he was telling the truth! Why don't you look out the window and see if you can figure out where we are going"So they all look out the windows, and Ethan says, Disney World as he sees the sign, and we say"yep that's right, were going to Disney World" and heres the reaction we got...that we've waited for forever....Ethan says "Ah man I wanted to go to great wolf lodge not some Disney hotel in Texas." Poor boy still didn't realize we were in Florida, he still thought we were in Texas...so we said, it's not a Disney Hotel, it's Disney World...WE're in Florida! Aiden says "You LIED to us...(with about a 10 second pause)do we get to ride the rides?" We replied "yep , just like our spring break trip same hotel, the parks etc." Aly says "Can we ride the buses" We say "yep" and then they all become all smiles, clapping their hands, and bouncing up and down in their seats. As we walk into Port Orleans Riverside to check in, they continue to build their excitement.So as we are walking in the parking lot to Port Orleans Riverside I see a Magic Express bus, I say to Rhett, run...get in front of the bus crowd...he asks no questions and takes off in a jog to get in the checkin line...we beat the Magic Express crowd and were greeted by a friendly cast member within seconds...then she said the magic words "Your room is ready!" I was Shocked!!! it was not even noon yet! We get our Keys to the World, maps etc...and head back to the car. We do a quick check of the room, change clothes, walk to the bus stop and at 12:23 we were on the bus on the way to Epcot!We walk through the gates, stop at the first photopass photog for a family ball shot...and we were greeted by the sweetest photog, she joked with us all, talked to the kids, really was just awesome! We got our photopass, headed on our way...we went into the Land building, fastpassed Soarin, and went to grab lunch. We shared a plate of noodles and rice and chicken and veggies, as well as a sandwich, and a strawberry shortcake, and a choc. asian cake. Then we headed to SOARIN,

just by luck we got the front row, and as the burst of air from take off hit our faces Aly exclaimed, "Mommy I m flying, I can't believe it we're flying!" and as sappy as it sounds, I got that warm fuzzy feeling, and the reminder of why we LOVE these trips so much!Next up...will our day end as good as it begins? Will we all wish we were in Texas?

Day One-- Part Two

2008-09-23T16:34:00.000-07:00

After SOARIN we headed to Living with the Land...we are geeks...we LOVE this ride. While we were inside, it had began to sprinkle...Rhett and I realized on the drive over that we had forgotten our ponchos, the kids had their wind/rain breakers in their camelbacks...anyways the point, it was raining and Rhett and I had no Ponchos... the kids pulled their jackets out, and we decided to tough it out..it wasn't raining hard enough to get us very wet. So we all headed to Figment.Ethan held his nose the whole time, in anticipation of the skunk smell. Figment is one of my favorite characters.So far everything was basically walk on, even though we had fast passed Soarin, we could've walked on...we decided to use the fastpasses out of principle..:).Heading out of Figment, we decided to head to the Character Spot. The characters were all inside because of the rain, and the lines were moderate we waited about 5 min to see all of the characters. The Photog that had taken our first Epcot pic of the day was in the character spot, and remembered us...even asking where my other child was when he was in the bathroom. The Character interaction was great, all were playful and sweet....I couldn't have asked for more.

With the rain and the low crowds our pace was very relaxed...dinner reservations weren't until 8:10pm, so we really just took our time. After the Character spot, we headed over to Spaceship earth, I haven't ever been on this ride since I guess it was refurbed eons ago...anyways, it's a cute ride, and all of the activities in the building are fun too. It was nice not to feel rushed and just to experience whatever came , and wherever the kids kinda migrated to. We then hit Mission Space, the Green side. Test track was closed due to the rain. So we headed to world showcase. We ran into more characters along the way...`Our kids all carry camelsbacks which have water in them, but have pockets for their autograph books, rainjackets etc. Well Mulan was fascinated by them, she asked the kids "What is this," Ethan says "It's a camelsback" Mulan says "that's funny you look nothing like a camel." Ethan said "Im not a camel, that's just what its called..it holds water so you can have a drink even when your walking" MUlan says "Mushu we must get some of these strange contraptions for our army so they are not thirsty...I still don't understand the name though, they look nothing like camels." It was so funny they had like a 5 minute conversation about the backpacks. Right when we were done Mulan and Mushu took a break, so I was thankful for that little bit of pixie dust! We just kinda wandered the World Showcase...and to fuel the notion that I am truly the Worlds Meanest Mom, who makes their kids carry their own things in theme parks I submit this pic...not only do I make them carry their own bags, but encourage them to push each other in the stroller as well.I found myself walking hand in hand with Rhett, the only thing I was carrying was our keys to the world which were in a lanyard around my neck, Aly was pushing Ethan and Aiden was just kinda tagging along. The kids were begging to push, and the crowds were SO low that we weren't endangering anyone by letting them!We had joined the stroller swap, but weren't going to get it until the next day. So we decided just to be safe to rent a single stroller and the kids could take turns...really this is our best bet, we're not ready to be completely without the stroller just yet, but don't need a seat for all 3 either.Around 4 or so we stopped in Germany and got a Brat, and an apple fritter...YUMMO is all I can say, I love spreading our CS out around the whole world showcase! We actually only used 3 CS out of our 5 on our first day!(Sidenote: as a part of the disney dining package (which was FREE this trip) we got 5 CounterService(CS) meals, 5 Snacks, and 5 Table Service meals per day. Counter Service is any of the fast food like counters in any of the parks or resorts and Table Service is any of the sitdown, or buffet meals on Disney property I think there are more than 100 to choose from, a snack is basically any item in the park under $4.00.)

For Dinner, we had chosen to dine in Norway with the Princess'. Aly was in heaven, and the boys enjoy it too. We saw Belle, Aurora, Ariel, Jasmine, and Cinderella. We have some great pictures, but the best ones are on our Photopass CD so I 'll post those when we get it!

Day 2 Disney's Hollywood Studios!

2008-09-23T16:33:00.000-07:00

DAY 2

I had a wake up call at 7:35, I had showered the night before and laid out everyone's clothes...today we were celebrating Aiden's birthday and were headed to DHS(MGM)...so Jedi Mickey T-shirts for the boys Rhett had found the artwork, and I had their shirts printed at Vista Print...I think they were around $5.00.
We got out to the bus stop around 8:15 and were in plenty of time for rope drop. Rhett headed straight to FastPass ToyStory, and we followed behind, jumping in the standby line and riding it...our wait was about 12 minutes.

We all loved this ride, it was so much fun!

The whole park heads to this attraction at rope drop, so fastpassing it and riding other thrillers may be a good option too!

After finishing up Toystory, we headed to the Tower of Terror and Rockin Rollercoaster. Aly isn't tall enough for RR, but TT is one of her favorites. Rockin Rollercoaster is alot of fun. Rhett and I were cracking up at how creepy some of the Cast Members for the Tower of Terror ride appear.

This ride was great as always, and Aiden we discovered is quite the screamer....I don't remember him being so vocal last trip, but this time he screamed MAMAAAAAA quite a few times!!! But was overcome with excitement when the ride was over!

After doing the two thrillers we headed to Jedi Training... Ethan was the first one chosen out of the crowd....I was so scared Aiden wouldn't get picked, and was envisioning how heartbroken Aiden would be if Ethan got picked and Aiden didn''t especially since we were celebrating Aidens Birthday on this day....but the Jedi Master quickly put my fears to rest and choose Aiden as the second one for the stage. For others wondering, they were wearing Jedi Mickey t-shirts and jumped up and down like fools!! I was so impressed with the interaction in Jedi Training, they really go all out..and this was a highlight of the trip for the boys!!! Here are a few pictures of that, but the photopass guy got some exceptional ones, I ll post those when I get my CD!

Our reservations were for Sci Fi at 4:15pm...I had tried and tried to get a better time before our trip, but was never able to. Well while we were at Jedi Training I called and was able to get us in for lunch at 11:25 so we headed straight from Jedi Training to lunch. It was good and the kids enjoyed the atmosphere. After lunch we went and hit some of the character stops...last trip we missed the power rangers and this was a big priority for Aiden.

And because I know your all dying to see Power Ranger Pics I ll gladly post those when we get our Photopass CD :)

We then went back and used our fastpasses to hit TOy Story again, we tried to get one more ride on TSM in, but the wait was 45min...we don't do those kind of waits!
After wandering a bit, and doing a few more rides we went and watched Beauty and the Beast, what a great show this was.
We followed BB with Little Mermaid, I could do without the little mermaid show, but the kids loved it and it was dry and cool!

About this time the skies opened up and the rain began, and this was not a small downpour. We hit Prince Caspian, the drawing class, and star tours during the monsoon. Luckily we had bought ponchos at Epcot, and the kids rain coats held up like champs! After star tours we waded over to TT and RR again, and took turns riding RR with the boys, I think we got in 3 more rides and then rode TT twice more. All the rides were walk on. On a side note, with it raining there were several large groups from other countries, I think some were from Brazil..anyhow, several of the older women simply removed their shirts and were walking around in their bras with the Disney clear ponchos on...it was so odd!

We ate dinner at the ABC commissary, really MGM/DHS has the worst park food...but it sufficed! We hung out and crossed our fingers that Fantasmic would not be canceled....luckily it wasn't! Around 7:50 we went and got seats, DH got seats in the 7th or so row from the bottom, and it was AWESOME! The kids loved the show, and we enjoyed it more without the kids whining like they did last year! This was a commando day, we had never spent 12 hours in a park, but it was a good day. We did have periods that we took slower...but it was a great day! We left after fantasmic and went to bed as a happy bunch!

Day 3 Magic Kingdom and Halloween Party

2008-09-23T16:23:00.000-07:00

Day 3 - Our Magic Kingdom Morning

We got out to the bus stop around 8:00 and got on the first bus to Magic Kingdom. We arrived at Magic Kingdom around 8:25, and we waited for rope drop which was at 9. The kids hula hooped, picked up pixie dust off the sidewalk, and played happily while we waited

.
At about 10 til the train came around, and we got to see the opening show. It was nice that the crowds were light enough that we didn't have to worry about our position, we just relaxed and watched.

When the rope dropped we walked straight to Dumbo. Since this was just going to be a half of a day we left the stroller at the hotel, so we walked down Main St towards the castle together
We were on the second ride of Dumbo that morning.

After Dumbo we did all of the rides in Fantasyland(Pooh, snow white, peter pan, small world etc)
all the rides were walk ons with the exception of Peter Pan...Rhett was Appauled at the 2 minute wait!
After knocking out Fantasyland, we went to Haunted Mansion...this was our first ride on it since the refurb..wow they really did a good Job! Adventureland was next, we rode Big Thunder three times, and Splash once. It was about 10:35 now so we got on the train and took it to Toontown, then we took the back path to Space Mountain. This was Aly's first time on Space Mountain, and she wanted to ride in the front. She loved it, and wanted to go again. We wanted to get back to the hotel for a mid day break, before Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party (MNSSHP) which was a surprise for the kids. The bus took about 20 minutes, we got back to the food court at the hotel around 11:45, and ate lunch. Headed back to the room and laid down for a short nap at 12:50.
Stitch called to wake us up at 1:55pm and nobody but me moved. I started waking the kids up, and we told them the surprise. Aly was going to Bibbity Boppity Boutique in the castle for a Princess Makeover, and we had her Belle dress for her to wear to MNSSHP, and the boys had storm trooper costumes to wear. They were all thrilled, Ethan said "I didn't know Mickey had a halloween party, and I get to go how cool!"

So we threw the costumes in a bag and headed back to Magic Kingdom. We went to BBB at 3 and DD enjoyed a princess makeover!

Aly really enjoyed the Princess Makeover and her "Fairy Godmother in Training was very sweet" The actual boutique is decorated beautifully, and was just perfect for our little princess.
We spent the rest of the afternoon riding rides, we headed to adventurland stopping on the way to try our first Dole Whip which is pineapple whipped softserve served floating in pineapple juice, WOW, what a great treat on a hot day. We walked on most of the rides throughout the afternoon, but space mountain was down for a bit.

Around 6pm we went to Cosmic Rays and got a few Cheeseburgers, we each had about a half of a cheeseburger. Then we went to the rose garden to get our wristbands, and treat bags and Maps. We just decided to make the circle around the park ending in tomorrowland hoping that by then SM may be back up again.

We enjoyed the characters that were out...

But all night we were looking for Snow White and the Dwarfs, we got told all sorts of stories about where she was...but finally we found them, all of them! Aly had been wanting to see Dopey her favorite Dwarf!The character interaction was great. And the lines were not long at all to see the characters!

We stopped to watch Hallowishes, and I have to say it was an amazing fireworks show!! Disney really goes all out for it! We rode a couple of rides after the fireworks, and then found a spot right in front of Caseys on Main Street to watch the parade! We got everyone a hotdog and cracker jacks, and enjoyed the parade! The parade was hands down the best parade I ve ever seen!

Everyone was wiped, but Rhett really wanted to see the villians mix and mingle, so we did that before we headed back to the hotel!!! All of the villians were out and about, so that was fun to see!

Our Last Day, Epcot!

2008-09-23T16:20:00.000-07:00

Day 4

After our late night, we didn't even get a wake up call. We all woke up around 8:30 and showered and took our time. It was about 10am before we got to Epcot. Since we had already spent half of the day at Epcot we didn't feel rushed to get anywhere. So we asked Ethan where he wanted to go. We hadn't done the Seas area on our first day so we headed there. Our first ride was Nemo, and then we went upstairs and enjoyed all of the aquariums and the Dolphins. Our lunch reservation was at 11:10 so we went to find the restaurant when we realized that I had made our reservations at a restaurant that was not even in Epcot. I still have no idea how I did this, I really thought the restaurant was in Epcot...so I quickly, said well there is a restaurant below the aquarium let's go see if we can get in there... now keep in mind you can book reservations up to 180 days in advance, and this is during free dining which means most restaurants were booked ages ago! So we go into Coral Reef and I see a sign saying they don't open until 11:30 (It is 11:10 at this time) but pick up the white phone for dining reservations...well no luck, no openings at Coral Reef. The nice lady on the other end says where else can I try, and I say Canada kinda laughing because Le Cellier in Canada fills up at 160 days out alot of times....when she says "are you in the park?' I say "Yes, Ma'am" and she says she has an opening at 11:30. Wow, how lucky Rhett and I both wanted to eat there forever, but neither of our last trips could we get reservations. Also, this was Ethan's second place in Epcot he wanted to eat because there are french speaking parts of Canada. So we get to the restaurant and the poor couple in front of us had no reservations and were being told, they were unable to seat them today, tomorrow or any other time during their trip...they were booked solid. The meal was amazing. The kids all had Cheddar Cheese soup, steak, and a chocolate moose (it was mousse shaped like a moose, the ears were maple leaf cookies). After lunch the kids wanted to go around all of the worlds and get their Disney Passports stamped, so after riding Test Track and Mission Space that's what we did. We took our time and went through almost all of the countries in the world showcase. We ended up in France around 5:00 and that's where our dinner reservations were. We had a very sweet older gentleman for a server who took the time to speak in French to the boys. We all enjoyed that experience as well as the food. After dinner, we went on Mission Space one more time, Rhett decided to stay behind and get a bottle of water. As we walked into the ride a Cast Member approached us and asked us if we would be the Family of the Hour. We of course said yes, so we got to go into Mission Control and the kids got to see how the ride works, flip all sorts of switches and then we got escorted to the front of the line for the ride! It was really cool, I couldn't believe Rhett missed out on it! I have some great pics of this day too, I ll work on uploading them soon. After Mission Space we asked Ethan what he wanted to do and he said "Swim" so we headed back to the hotel, and to the pool. My Aunt came and visited with us for a while, and the kids were fish for the rest of the night. It was a perfect ending to a much needed getaway for our family. Every time we take trips there are things that stand out in my mind, this trip is no different. We're already looking forward to the next time we get to escape "real life" for uninterrupted play time!

Aiden

2008-09-21T09:03:00.000-07:00

Today is Aiden's Birthday. Although all of our Children are gifts from God, from the day we found out Aiden was a boy I have had a strong feeling that Aiden was sent because Ethan needed him. I still feel that way. They were meant to be a team.

From the time Aiden was itty, bitty he has been strong willed, competitive, persistent, and driven. He also is sensitive, affectionate and passionate.

Here he is at age one.

At almost two.

By age Three Aiden showed Rhett and I how much he loved to paint, draw and do anything artistic. It's so funny if you gave both Ethan and Aiden a box of markers and paper when they were 3 you would get drastically different results. Ethan would stack and link the markers together to build something, Aiden would take them out and draw.

Here he is at age 4, he has always loved school, and loves to excel in school.

At age 5 he started kindergarten at the same school as Ethan, and would get so mad when Ethan would wait to walk him to the car after school..."Im not a baby" he would fuss at Ethan.

Although, Aiden is very in tune with his siblings, and very close to both of them...he is never afraid to strike out on his own. He is a leader, not a follower most of the time.

Aiden is a fun loving little boy who is full of life.

Aiden keeps us laughing. On our surprise trip to Disney World we realized he is a screamer, on rollercoasters he yell's MAAAAMMMMAAA as the top of his lungs, and then giggles uncontrollably. He also sings quite a few tunes in the shower. He is bright, and amazingly quick with numbers. He is fiesty as ever, and keeps both Aly and Ethan on their toes! That's our Aiden, he's seven today!

Hurricane Gustav~~ Part DEUX

2008-09-01T17:09:00.000-07:00

The worst is over...and we are all safe, and happy...and barbequeing.

Here's Aly and Na crafting while waiting for the hurricane.

And about an hour and a half after the storm Rhett and I were able to get out and head home to survey our damage....

We lost half of a tree, a section of fence, part of our barn...but everything else is fine.

We have no power, due to a gas leak down the road. We will be staying the night with Ali and Kent, and heading back to start the yard cleanup tomorrow. Hopefully, the power won't be out for too long.

We are relieved, and thankful at the small amount of "damage" to our property, and that we all came through the storm safe and healthy.

Please keep those in the Thibodaux/Houma area in your prayers, as most evacuated...but suffered some major property damage and will not be allowed in until roads and down powerlines can be cleared.

As Gustav continues we pray that tornado's and rain not be harmful.

The Theobald Family, Lafayette, LA 7:21pm

Hurricane Gustav

2008-09-01T13:18:00.000-07:00

We are in the middle of Gustav... it is windy, and rainy, but we are all safe and sound watching movies, and the kids are playing.

We left our house early this morning, to come to a friends house that is more central Lafayette. This is a pic of some of the "supplies" we brought.

Most of the day we've been watching the weather...but you can only watch it so long! So right now we re watching Die Hard 3 and the kids are playing with moon sand.

First thing this morning we made a big batch of Honey Nut Cheerio rice crispy treats.... they were yummy!

The winds began picking up around noon, joined by rain. Ali and Kent thought it would be a great time to fly kites.

A little note about Ali's hair~ yes it is teal! September is Cervical Cancer Awareness month, Ali is a cervical cancer survivor...and also a morning co-host for local radio....She's using her hair to bring attention to Cancer Prevention!

Rhett tried out a Hot Tamale Popsicle...he says they are awesome!

The winds are picking up a little more, leaves and stuff are flying...but we still have power!

We continue to wait out the storm and pray for the best!

The Theobald Family 3:39PM

Our Ethan

2008-08-16T15:10:00.001-07:00

Ethan is celebrating his 8th birthday.

It seems like yesterday, he joined our lives and made us a family!

At only 13 months he became "The Big Brother"

By the time Ethan was two they were best buddies.

Shortly after he turned Three he got to teach Aiden all about the big brother role, when Aly came along!

By age four, he was all about trying new things.

By age 5 he had trained two younger siblings, and learned how to make new friends when we moved across the country.

By age six he had the school thing more than down pat!

By age 7 Martial Art's had become an important part of his life.

At age 8 Ethan is of course in our eye's our little boy.

But he is also a sweet, inquisitive, imaginative, smart young man. He is a goal setter, the first day of school he informed me "My goal this year is to make honor roll, and to be the Student of the Month again." he informed me of this without me even asking. He holds himself to high standards sometimes this brings on anxiety, he get's so worried about doing whatever perfect that he freezes up and gets super nervous. He rarely meets a stranger, and will talk your ear off if he has the opportunity. He enjoys building things, and doing things with his hands. He loves school, and really enjoys learning French. He is always asking questions about other countries, about the possibility of traveling abroad, he loves seeing new things and new places. If you ask him what he want's to be when he grows up he will tell you a robot mechanic, he is fascinated with the fact that college teams build bots and do competitions. His favorite cartoon is Ben Ten, which is all about a boy super hero that turns into ten different aliens, it's your classic good vs bad story over and over again. I doubt that it is a coincidence that Ben 10 has a Grandpa that has alot of similarities to my Dad, Ethan and PaPa have a great bond. He enjoys reading magic tree house books, and anything with an adventurous plot. He is helpful at home, and tries to be a leader to his siblings. Even before he was born he was a blessing to his Dad and I!

Happy Birthday Buddy!

We will celebrate his birthday at lunch tomorrow, hopefully Aunt Lydia will join us. We have a family trip planned for Sept. to celebrate all of the kids birthdays, and our wedding anniversary. The kids think we are going to the Great Wolf Lodge in Dallas, but we are surprising them with one of their favorite places...any guesses where?

In Family News: Rhett will be giving his 2 weeks notice at work on Monday, and starting a new job soon. Rhett and I are excited about his new opportunity and would appreciate your prayers as our family makes this transition. The boys are back in school, and were both greeted with smaller class sizes (Aiden's has 16 and Ethan's 15), as well as the teachers I had hoped for. Aly starts on Monday, we went on Fri to meet her teacher and see who was in her class (they have two classes and they mix the girls up every year). Aly's teacher will be great, the teachers aide is also one of her favorites and she was thrilled to have some of her favorite girls in her class. (there are 12 in her class)

Beautiful Wedding + Family = Priceless Memories

2008-08-08T20:59:00.000-07:00

In every family there are those few family members who are uniters. It is them that brings the entire family together. Well in my extended family my Uncle Jerry and Aunt Ann have always filled that role. This wedding was no exception. So today on 08-08-2008 my cousin Allison married her love Jeremy. Aly was thrilled that Allison asked her to be the flower girl.

Aly before the ceremony, checking herself out in the mirror.

Uncle Jim (father of the bride) and Ano before the ceremony.

Ano and Aly waiting for the bride.

Ano takes a break.

Stephanie and Ano at the rehersal.

Aly before the ceremony.

The Happy Couple!

Aly and her Godmother Stephanie. Stephanie also is a uniter in our family, I can remember when we were kids she would always try to get everyone involved in fun activities. Her enthusiasm for life, and spirit of joy are a few of the reason's Rhett and I asked her to be Aly's Godmother.

The boys had fun tonight too, this is Aiden and Aly dancing. Allison and Jeremy's first dance was very sweet, and beautiful...and Aiden and Aly tried their hardest to emulate it. They even got the dip down.

Aly and Aiden tearing it up.

Long Day!

Marriage is a beautiful sacrament. My marriage has brought me countless blessings, and I am just so happy for Allison and Jeremy that they too will get to experience their lives together.

Theobald Three

2008-08-05T20:37:00.001-07:00

Theobald Three

2008-08-05T20:19:00.000-07:00

Here are some pics of our three. They are still "stairsteps". Generally speaking they are a team, and they take good care of each other. Like all siblings they have their moments. It is hard for me to believe that I am Mother to an almost 8 , 7 and 5 year old. I am however, eternally grateful that I get to experience them growing up together...it's an amazing journey to be a part of! When we get home I will post each one by themselves, and describe them and their personalities for those of you who don't get to be a part of their daily lives.

More Summer Fun in Panama City

2008-08-05T20:05:00.001-07:00

Last night we ate dinner in our condo, and then headed out for ice cream.

Ethan went with the frozen bananna!

Aiden had ice cream, as did Aly.

We had fun browsing Ron Jon Surf Shop, Rhett and I thought of his brother Reece, and wished he was here as we know he would have loved Ron Jon!

Aly being goofy.

Panama City

2008-08-04T19:26:00.000-07:00

So we are in Panama City, wrapping up our summer. This is the first time the kids have had more than a few minutes at the beach, and they are really enjoying it! For me it reminds me of beach trips I took with my Parents, and Rhett says it is unlike any beach he has ever experienced...hope you enjoy the pictures of today.

The kids have enjoyed the beach. They think the hermit crabs that scatter at night are hillarious, here's Aiden trying to catch one.

Aly loving the sand.

Fun, Fun, Fun!

The First Ever Theobald Family Sandcastle!

Look a seashell.

More sand Mom!

The Summer is almost over.

2008-07-28T08:54:00.000-07:00

So the last few weeks have been super crazy. The weekend of the 19th we went to Hattiesburg for a Bridal Shower, it was nice to see alot of the women in my extended family, and meet our most recent addition. Aly enjoyed herself as well, (she is the flower girl for the upcoming wedding). Ethan is still in his summer reading camp, and Aly and Aiden have been bouncing around from thing to thing. Last week Rhett took few half days off and took the kids to Apple Camp in Baton Rouge for Kids Iphoto camp and IMovie.

They came up with some cute little clips I ll have to share later.

Last Weekend 7/26/2008 Ethan and Aiden tested for their next belt in Taekwondo, this was a big deal...as I have said in other posts the transitions to the older class has been a rocky one, and this is the first time they have tested in about 5 months. They both worked very hard this testing cycle and mastered their material. They were both very satisfied with their accomplishments! They both earned their blue belts!

This week I am wrapping up getting all ready for the boys to start school, as they will start the day we get back from our vacation/wedding trip.

This week the kids are all at "Camp Chill" at the Ice Skating rink. Ethan is at his reading camp in the morning, this is our last true week of summer...and I don't know where it went!
I apologize for the generic pics this morning, but I am teaching a camp.com class at the University, so I am using this as an example in teaching kids blogging!

ATA World Championships 2008

2008-07-01T13:09:00.000-07:00

So we made our second trip to the ATA world championships. This will likely continue to be a yearly tradition, at least until we move out of driving distance from Arkansas. This year was different than last year in some ways, and the same in some. The same: everyone had a great time, we all were amazed by the talent level, it was a great reminder of why we all love the sport and the ATA. Different: we met alot of people from all over the country, the boys both competed in divisions in which they were scored and placed,my Dad didn't come but Rhett's parents did.

Aly bowing in for competition.

Aly waiting for her turn.

Aly is in the all Black Gear, she was excited there was another girl in her round so she got to spar a girl! At our local school she always ends up sparring boys who are quite a bit older. They both did well, it was a good match.

The division Aly is in (Tiny Tigers) is un-scored, but the judge did compliment both girls on their technique. Just as a coincidence the other little girl (her name was Maggie) and her family were in the same hotel as we were, so the girls got to know each other! Their family is from Kansas, and I look forward to seeing them again at other tournaments!

And the Trophy's!

This year was different and new for Aiden. He moved up from Tiny Tigers to the regular class about 6 months ago and it has been quite the adjustment, they are responsible for alot more material. At tournaments they are judged by three judges (one watches hand position, one feet position, and one overall knowledge... so each move of the form is judged from 3 different perspectives) they are then scored on a scale similar to gymnastics 9.4 , etc... in sparring they get three minutes, and it goes to 5 points...if time expires whoever is ahead wins. We haven't attended a tournament since Worlds last year, so this was the first tournament that Ethan and Aiden were scored, as well as being moved up to the next age bracket because of it being the first tournament of the year.

Aiden doing his form.

Aiden sparring, in all black gear.
In the end Aiden received a 9.5,9.5, and a 9.6 on his form placing him 4th out of about 14 competitors. In sparring he lost his first match by one point because time expired. The little boy he lost to won 1st in all three events. He learned alot, and considering he completed his entire 44 move form by himself for the first time ever he did quite well! Most importantly after a little frustration of running out of time in sparring he was all smiles, and enjoyed himself!

Ethan waiting his turn.

Ethan doing his form.

Ethan Sparring.

Ethan Awaiting awards. In the end Ethan recieved a 9.4,9.2, and 9.4 on his form. And fought his way to 3rd place in sparring out of about 14 kids. It was a big accomplishment for him as well to get through his form with minimal mistakes. Also, because of the way the tournament year falls he was moved up an age bracket to the 8-10 group. So he was one of the youngest competitors in this ring. He too enjoyed the tournament.

This Pic is from the 2008 ATA World Championships Opening ceremonies, it is the team event. Check out the height he got on that flip!
And while waiting for Aiden's round to begin we caught some Tiny Tiger Xtreme Martial Art's...and I thought this little boy was too cute...little boys with big swords, what could make a boy happier...of a friend with a sword too!

I have video that I will be compiling and youtubing later this month.

Hope everyone is having a great summer!

Father's Day/My Birthday

2008-06-15T18:52:00.000-07:00

We spent the day together, outside at the pool. The kids are all worn out, and sunkissed. Hope everyone had a nice fathers day. Aiden and Aly head to Day camp this week, Ethan will be at reading camp, and I will be teaching a computer camp.

Another day outside....

2008-06-08T14:03:00.000-07:00

We are enjoying the weather, and spending as much time outside as possible. Today we packed a lunch and headed to the aquatic center again. The kids love it, and come home all tuckered out...

Some of our favorite places...

2008-06-07T20:36:00.000-07:00

The Academy of the Sacred Heart, shown here at Sunset...but is lovely and peaceful anytime of day...this is Aly's school!

The "Swamp" at night...on UL's campus. You can't say it's quiet, because there are so many animal sounds it's amazing...but it is SO peaceful, and the kids love it.

Weekend fun!

2008-06-07T16:21:00.001-07:00

Today we got up and decided to go try out the aquatic center on campus...it's free and they have family hours on weekends when students may bring their families. Ends up, it's a super nice facility...and now a place we will likely spend lot's of time on weekends. Here are some pictures....
Aly underwater, being silly! These photos are being taken with our Olympus shock proof/water proof...its the 720 I think, the oldest one we've had the waterproof camera for two years now...and I really love not having to worry about getting it wet at the pool!
Aly drying out.
Brotherly Love!
Aiden and Daddy shooting hoops!
Ethan getting ready to splash me!

It is nice that the university has so many amenities...we should of taken advantage of them a little sooner!

Ahhhh the Lazy Days of Summer!

2008-06-02T18:42:00.000-07:00

Whoever coined that phrase didn't have 3 kids!! Today the first summer camp that I am teaching began, Ethan is in daycamp this week, and Aiden and Aly are being Mommy's helpers... Here's some pictures from last week.

One of my very good friends had a card that allowed the kids to ride unlimited times for free on the rides at the state fair, so our kiddo's and her daughter (Aly's favorite friend) Naomi had a great time! The water park pictures are from our local sprinkler park, the kids and I spent an afternoon there last week!

Conversations in the car

2008-05-28T14:04:00.000-07:00

Pictures from the baseball game the other day.

Today Aiden says to Ethan "Do you want to live in Louisiana when we get older, because I m planning on living with you..." Ethan says "no probably not Louisiana" Aiden says "where then," Ethan says "Maybe Texas" Aiden says "Na too hot" Ethan says "Antartica" Aiden says "Way too cold" Ethan says "Maybe louisiana after all, maybe New Orleans" Aiden says "Yeah, and I m gonna buy us both dart guns, it's gonna rule"

So funny, and cute...I love that they are such good friends!

A few Pictures and it's all in the details.

2008-05-27T15:07:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the blurriness, our camera's getting a little old. Anyway's this is Aly graduating Pre K 3.

Aly with Mrs. LeBlanc.

We've had a relaxing couple of days at home. I had to laugh yesterday when Rhett got home Aly had to tell him " I had a bologna and cheese sandwich with my broccoli and cheese soup for lunch, it was yummy" Aiden says, "I didn't even have lunch" Aly says yes you did "You had beanie weenies" Aiden says "Oh Yeah I forgot" Aly then went on to share every little detail of her day, when she changed clothes, what we did outside etc. Aiden says "We didn't do anything today." It's so funny to me how to Aly every little detail is of upmost importance, and with the boys the details really don't matter much.

Our Weekend

2008-05-25T19:49:00.000-07:00

We had a fun weekend. On Thursday evening we celebrated the end of the school year by going to Tokyo Live, a hibachi restaurant. The kids loved it as did Rhett and I. We all had various meats with veggies and rice, and Ethan had a Crunchy Sushi Roll. Ethan loves Sushi...it's nice when he shares too.

Friday the kids and I spent the day together, ran some errands, and just hung out at home. The kids played in the sprinkler, napped, played some games etc.

On Saturday we hung out at home for awhile, and then decided to go to the UL baseball game. It was the Sunbelt Championships and UL was playing UNO (University of New Orleans). This was the first time we had taken the kids to a game. Pre kids Rhett and I enjoyed baseball games alot....the kids had a good time, and perhaps were more interested in the peanuts than the game but that's ok. UL lost by one run, but it was a good game, with lots of excitement. We enjoyed the Cajun fans (UL is the Ragin Cajuns) and just really had alot of fun. We left thinking we should go to more athletic events, especially since it is so inexpensive(I'm free, and the rest of the family is cheaper than a movie ticket). During the game they announced that the UL Women's Softball team qualified for the College World Series. I'm excited, several of the softball players are fellow CODI (communication disorders) majors, I know how hard they work to balance training and classwork...so that's exciting for them! It definitely was a warm day, but towards the end of the day started to cool off and be quite beautiful.

This week will be our off week before our chaos of summer begins, and I plan to do things mostly at home. Hopefully, tomorrow we can get the pool set up and some more house work done.

New Happenings in the Theobald house

2008-05-20T08:30:00.000-07:00

Well it's that time where we are wrapping up school years, and bracing for summer. Perhaps the most "new" thing in our home is that two weeks ago I ended my employment at the casino. Rhett and I had thought on it for a long time, and prayed about it as well, and it was just time. The commute was too long, the hours not working for our family anymore, and too many other negatives to mention. So now I am "just" working for the University...which is awesome because it's what I really enjoy and it works well with my schooling...so now on to the important people in our lives...the kids!!!

Ethan, has had a great year this year! Academic wise he is an A&B student with the exception of an 81%C in French last nine weeks. Although we began the year concerned about his reading level, he is now testing on a 4th grade level, enjoys reading, and is really into several different books. He was chosen as Student of the Month in April, and consistently maintains A's in conduct. Taekwondo has been a little bit of a struggle this year, as the boys advance in rank the material and expectations get tougher(as it should) but the boys are no longer flying through their ranks as before. They are more than halfway to their blackbelts...and most importantly are still enjoying it. They love learning new things as they advance in rank like board breaks, self defense techniques and sparring techniques. He enjoys his school. I am amazed at how well he speaks french, and reassured constantly at the benefits of immersion. He is growing into quite a young man, he is thoughtful and sweet, he has quite an imagination, and enjoys building and doing things. Math and Science are his strengths.

Aiden, also has had a great year. He has been on A&B honor roll all year, and also is reading "above" grade level. He is the same rank as Ethan in Taekwondo (purple) but struggles a little less in Taekwondo than Ethan. He too is enjoying his school. He remains feisty, and energetic. His strengths are Math and anything artistic and expressive. He still loves his camera that he got for Christmas and takes a lot of photos.

Aly, has had a perfect year for her first year of "school". Everyday when she comes out of school she bounces to the car. Her teacher Mrs. Leblanc is one of those women who loved my child as if she was her own, as such Aly was nurtured and loved everyday at school... Mrs. Leblanc is leaving full time teaching because she wants to be home and more available for her own child, I am thankful that we were blessed enough have her for Aly's first year of school. All of the teachers are amazing...but Mrs. Leblanc was just a true gift. Academic wise she has under control everything a four year old needs to have control of, and more. She is a girly girl, but can hang tough with her brothers as well. She also continues to do taekwondo and is a green belt. She loves her baby dolls, and dress up, and princess' and anything pink.

Next year Aly will continue at the school she was at this year, she will be in PK4. Rhett and I are sold on the benefits of single gender education, and couldn't imagine a better place for our daughter to be. Our only regret is that it's not as available for the boys. The boys will continue in their immersion program at the school they are at now.

Our summer is already filled. I am teaching 8 weeks of camp this summer at the University as well computer classes at the University. Ethan is doing 7 weeks of half day camp at the University, and Aiden and Aly have one week of day camp planned at Aly's school. Other than that the kids will come to camp with me. We do however have some getaways planned. In June we will be headed to Little Rock for the ATA World Championships. Rhett's parents are meeting us there so it will be nice to see them, it's been a while. My Dad I believe is also planning on coming, which will be great. I feel really lucky to get to see him as much as I do, and love how much a part of our kids life he is! In August we will spend some time on the beach, and then head to my cousin's wedding...Aly is the flower girl..and is SO excited!

This week we have awards ceremonies and closing ceremonies for all of the kids....so I will post some pictures when I have a chance.

Pictures from At&t Summit 2008- Scottsdale, Az

2008-04-26T11:16:00.001-07:00

Rhett with the other Customer Service Winners! We had the opportunity to spend time with most of those in this picture...what a great group of people.

Golf Course View...Rhett's team won the golf scramble!

View from our room.

View of part of the resort pool...which was huge, had a swim up bar and resturant.

Downtown Scottsdale.

Dinner the last evening of our trip...at a place called the venue. One big event, the center made to look like Bourbon Street with a stage in the middle, and off to the sides lots of themed "bars"...a biker bar complete with tatoo's(airbrushed) and Harley pics, a New Orleans bar complete with casino games, a New York Pub upstairs...you could hear and see the center stage from almost anywhere inside...we had a lot of fun. They also did live band karaoke which was alot of fun to watch too!

Mom and Dad got spoiled!

2008-04-23T20:23:00.000-07:00

Some of you know that Rhett won a Service Excellence Award at work. He is the only one in Lafayette ever to win one. Well he was also chosen as a Summit Award winner...which is recognition of the "best of the best" of At&t. As a Summit Award winner Rhett won an all expense paid trip to Scottsdale Az. We left on Saturday, and came back late on Tuesday. My Dad and Tracy were nice enough to keep the kids for us...and all weekend we were spoiled! The Phoenician Resort is an amazing property, the rooms were top notch and the service rivaled that of Disney (which rates high in our book) At&t also had activities planned for us. I got two days at the spa, and Rhett got one day on the golf course and one day at the spa. His team won the golf scramble so that was an added bonus. There was a short "business meeting" where awards were presented and the vision for 08 was discussed, a formal dinner banquet where Melinda Dolittle preformed for us, dancing, dinner out in the desert, and dinner at a place called the venue...which included casino games, live band karoke and was just a ton of fun. Every evening when we returned to our room we were greeted with chocolates on the pillow, and a gift from At&t...one night it was polo shirts, one night windbreakers, and the last night a digital photo frame. We met some great people, and had the privilege to get to know some of the executives a little better. Rhett's job at At&t has always been a blessing to our family, and this was absolutely no different. As a wife, it was a very fulfilling thing to see my husband honored for doing his job well! All weekend they kept saying "Your spouse is the best of the best in our industry" and I kept thinking, he's also the best of the best at home...what more could I ask for! I have a ton of pictures, I will post sometime tomorrow.

Amazing Game! Jayhawks win the 2008 NCAA title

2008-04-08T07:12:00.000-07:00

Thanks to ljworld.com this is what downtown Mass street in Lawrence looked like last night! While our living room wasn't nearly as crowded you can guarantee it was pretty noisy! Obviously, we are estatic with the outcome....but wow it really was a good game. There is nothing worse in my opinion when a championship game is a blow out!

So now the big question is will Bill Self stay at Kansas, or be bought by OSU! Of course as Kansas fans, people who's second son's middle name is Lawrence, can not imagine why anyone would want to leave Lawrence for Oklahoma (have you ever been to Oklahoma) but if he does...it'll suck, but we'll embrace our next coach (who this female non sports expert thinks should be Danny Manning) and although we live in LSU land our kids will continue to grow up cheering for KU in football and basketball! So even though we cheer win or lose...winning sure is fun!!

Thanks to the players and Coach Self for a great night of entertainment!!! Rock Chalk Jayhawk!!

Jayhawk Basketball!

2008-04-06T10:47:00.000-07:00

So anyone who knows us knows we are big Jayhawk fans (University of Kansas). Because we are true fans (Rhett is an alumni) we love them win or lose, but how exciting is a big win against the over-rated North Carolina Tarheels!!!

Just a sidenote from a female fan, but not a true sports expert...anyone notice how Roy chokes in big games and that he's never taken a team that he fully recruited to the big dance?

Here's the bedtime prayer Rhett and I will be saying: (Thanks Valerie for emailing it to us!)
Our Father, who art in Lawrence,
> Hallowed be thy Game.
> Thy tourney come,
> Thy championship will be done,
> In San Antonio as it is in Allen Field House.
> Give us this day our deserved victories.
> And forgive us our turnovers,
> As we forgive Roy who double-crossed against us.
> And lead us not into defeat,
> But deliver us from East Coast bias,
> For Kansas is the basketball kingdom,
> And the tradition,
> And the glory,
> For ever and ever.
> Amen.
> BEAK 'EM HAWKS!!!!!!!

While a win on Monday would be SO sweet! Win or lose we will delight for the next year in the way the Jayhawks handled up on UNC!!! Hey Roy I think your old enough to retire now!

We're Home!

2008-03-29T19:16:00.000-07:00

Although this was the view from our Condo in Gatlinburg, it is nice to be home in our own beds! We made the drive home all 12 hours of it in one day....yes Rhett and I are partially insane! We did however stop at a Dairy on the way home and toured the milk and ice cream plant, and of course we had to taste test it too... That was fun, and really interesting!

We all had a nice time, and the break from normal life was well needed and deserved! While on vacation we found out that Rhett got a promotion at work, and has been placed in the management position he really wanted. We are both excited about it, and are looking forward to a more favorable work schedule for Rhett.

Scenery

2008-03-26T17:51:00.001-07:00

View from our Condo. The kids were thrilled to see snow!

Beauty in the mountains!

A barn on our drive into Tennessee, when I grow up I want a Red Barn!
We enjoyed the Natural Beauty this week.

A Good Day to be Outside!

2008-03-26T17:05:00.000-07:00

Aly aka Sweetie... a very adventurous little girl who keeps us laughing and smiling!

Our little stair steps!

Who doesn't love Rocks...especially big rocks!

Ethan really enjoyed our hiking time!

Aiden took a ton of pictures of his own, which I will post within a few days!

Today was great! We got some hiking in, and some shopping! It was a good day. Tomorrow we head home.

More Pictures

2008-03-25T16:03:00.000-07:00

Ethan relaxing in the lazy river! I can't believe how big he is getting.

Aiden backstroking in the lazy river!

Aly posing for the camera!

Smiles are the best part of Vacation!

2008-03-25T15:59:00.000-07:00

Today we just enjoyed our kids! The waterpark was cold, we were spoiled by Great Wolf Lodge in Kansas City...but we still managed to have fun today!

Snowing during Spring Break!!

2008-03-24T13:49:00.001-07:00

This morning we attended a time share sales presentation. Rhett and I are a little weird in the fact we kinda like going to these....any time we re on vacation and we get an offer we usually go! One day we will buy a timeshare of some sort, so we like to see what all the different companies offer....and we like the freebies so for 2 hours of our time today we got breakfast (the whole family ate) the kids got to play at the kids club and then we got 5 tickets to the indoor waterpark that we were planning to go to anyways (tickets cost 20 a piece...so thats a savings of $100) we also got a $25 gift card to TGIFridays, and two nights free at any of their hotels. It was a nice property, we're just not in the market! And of course you can buy timeshares through internet resellers for 10% of the price that they sell them at these presentations.

It has snowed on and off all day today, which is fabulous as far as the kids are concerned. We came back to our condo this afternoon and swam, we just popped popcorn and are just hanging out. It certainly has been nice to relax. Tomorrow we will spend the day at the indoor waterpark, which should be fun!

On Vacation!

2008-03-23T15:44:00.000-07:00

YAY!! It's Spring Break. We left Lafayette on Friday around noon, drove to Meridian MS and hung out with my Dad for the evening, and yesterday we drove to Gatlinburg. I haven't been here since I was 3 or so...and it sure has changed in 27 years...but we are enjoying it. We are staying up top the mountain, and where we are is very remote. It's nice to have peace and quiet with ammenity mayhem lying only 15 minutes away. Today we rode the sky tram up to the mountain top, walked around down town, did the skyview chairlift, swam at our resort, and now at around 6pm our kids are all in there pajamas and we enjoyed a "homecooked" pizza and salad dinner.

Beautiful Weather!

2008-03-19T14:55:00.000-07:00

This was a week or so ago, feeding the ducks at the park! We are enjoying the beautiful weather!

Grandparents Day

2008-03-19T14:49:00.000-07:00

Here's a pic of Aly with some of her classmates...she's right around the same age as all of them...just taller.

Here's a picture of my Dad better known as "PaPa" and Aly at Grandparent's day. An event that was enjoyed by both!

Busy, Busy

2008-03-01T16:50:00.001-08:00

It's been a busy few weeks. I ve been teaching a few nights a week, as well as a full day during the week, as well as keeping up with school, kids etc. Last Friday it was Grandparents Day, my Dad came down and attended all of the events at Aly's school. The boys happened to be out of school for teacher inservice that same day so they all got some good "PaPa" time. I ll post pictures tomorrow from Grandparents Day and the last few weeks.

The weather has been fabulous, just a little rain here and there. The kids have all been in great moods, and it really has been just a good couple of weeks. Aly went for her first sleepover last night, and is of course excited about that. The boys in turn got a fun time with Dad all alone, and went to Home Depot for the kids clinic this morning and both built some pretty fierce race cars. Pictures coming soon!

We got some cool news from Idaho. Reece (Rhett's brother) adopted his two stepsons...so although we always viewed them as nephews...they now also carry the Theobald last name. So we are happy that those legal proceedings went the way Reece, Kelli and the kids wanted them to!

Thankful for Mardi Gras!

2008-02-07T08:27:00.000-08:00

If you would have told me several years ago before we moved here that I would be thankful for Mardi Gras I would have laughed long and hard and told you that you were crazy. Here's my thinking on the matter... Any holiday which grants me three days of no school where time with your family is in encouraged is great in my book! Saturday we got up as a family a little early packed a picnic lunch and headed to the parade route we lucked into a parking spot that we could back the car into pop the hatch and "camp out" a few feet from the parade baracades. The kids played crazy eights, blew bubbles, and people watched until the parade began. Once the parade started it was raining beads, cups and stuffed animals. All three of the kiddo's were catching as fast as they could and loved every minute of it. We returned home around 3 in the afternoon, where everyone took naps. It was a fun day.
On Tuesday, Rhett had to work :( but the kids and I headed down to the parade route again found a great spot and hung out for the day. We had a picnic, the kids played hacky sack, drew with sidewalk chalk (which some fellow paradegoers so nicely shared) blew bubbles etc. Again once the parade started they had a blast, and were thankful for some great people around us that would catch and give to them, when one of them caught something there was always someone who gave them a high five and told them "good job". The day certainly was long (3 parades in one day) we got there around 8:15am and stayed til around 4pm.

I know public intoxication, and indecency sometimes abounds at such events, but we were quite lucky. Although we did see people drinking, none were doing so irresponsibly, no one was rude, it truly was a good community experience. Lafayette Mardi Gras seems to be laid back and perfect for families. We did observe a good number of police officers specifically walking the crowds looking for underage and out of control drinkers.

I have some cute pics of our trio that I will post in a little while. Today the boys are back in school and I am headed back tomorrow...but the little post Christmas break was quite a nice respit for our family.

School Events

2008-02-06T09:56:00.000-08:00

All of the kids celebrated the Mardi Gras season at school as well. This was especially a welcome change for the boys, because at their previous school the principal ( who the kids liken to the principal in the movie Matilda) allowed no parties or celebrations for any events at school. So they were pumped that they got to make shoe box size mardi gras floats and pull them in their school parade. Ethan made a Ben 10 float and Aiden made a float with an elephant riding on it.

Aly had been doing activities for several weeks. They culminated their Mardi Gras season with the little girls (preK3, 4 and Kindergarteners) putting on a parade for the older girls. They walked through the gallery area of the school and were met by cheers and lots of "Throw me something Sister" from parents and other students, it was really cute, and fun for all.

I am thankful that all of the kids this year are in a school that embraces fun, and that they enjoy!

Uncle Jerry

2008-01-14T20:20:00.000-08:00

When our family went to Thibodaux on Christmas Eve to go to mass with Aunt Lydia, she showed us the Magnolia Blossem in the picture above. At face value it seems like just a normal flower, but those several weeks in Louisiana we were experiencing unusually cold temperatures. Aunt Lydia shared that she had driven through the neighborhood and no one elses tree's had blossems. This was the only blossem on the tree.

I am still unable to express in words the magnitude of the loss of such an amazing person. At least one of the kids talks about Uncle Jerry daily, and it's usually some completely random great memory.

The Pin Ball Effect

2008-01-14T20:19:00.000-08:00

I m betting by the title and the picture most of you (those of you with siblings especially) can fill in the story yourselves. One child was roughhousing with another child who inadvertently came into forceful contact with third child who got bounced into large hard piece of furniture! Two children got sent to bed early.

Sunday Afternoon Rodeo anyone?

2008-01-14T19:43:00.001-08:00

This Sunday we headed to the rodeo...we all enjoyed it. The animals won this round, very few competitors were able to complete there roping, many riders got thrown to the ground.

So Cute!

2008-01-14T18:01:00.000-08:00

One of the things we love about living in Louisiana is the culture. This picture is at Boutin's in Baton Rouge, it is one of our favorite places to eat...fabulous food, but always live music, and a dance floor. Ethan was so sweet and asked Aly to dance, and Rhett and I were pleasantly surpirsed when they actually danced rather than just running around. Aiden took this picture!

Mardi Gras Is Around the Corner

2008-01-14T14:17:00.000-08:00

These are pictures from last Mardi Gras. Last year we were lucky enough to be asked to help throw beads for a local radio station that one of my good friends works for. We had a great time. I am thankful that Lafayette Mardi Gras is fairly mild, and very family friendly. The kids enjoy the parades, and really it's just a fun time. Aly's class will be having fun activities leading up to Mardi Gras once a week for the next several weeks, and I m on the books to bring treats on Wed. traditionally I would bring a King cake, but being practical the Mom's of the pre-kers decided cupcakes would be more practical.

And for all of you reading this blog thinking the Theobalds are taking the kids to parades where there is nudity and lot's of wildness..... um no it's really not like that. For a tidbit of info...the history of the king cake.
What's a King Cake, you ask? Well, let's find out. From the King Cake section of the Carnival FAQ:
"The King Cake tradition came to New Orleans with the first French settlers and has stayed ever since. Like the rest of Mardi Gras during those early days, the king cake was a part of the family's celebration, and really didn't take on a public role until after the Civil War. In 1870, the Twelfth Night Revelers held their ball, with a large king cake as the main attraction. Instead of choosing a sacred king to be sacrificed, the TNR used the bean in the cake to choose the queen of the ball. This tradition has carried on to this day, although the TNR now use a wooden replica of a large king cake. The ladies of the court pull open little drawers in the cake's lower layer which contain the silver and gold beans. Silver means you're on the court; gold is for the queen.

"With the TNR making a big deal over the king cake in the society circles, others in the city started having king cake parties. These parties particularly among children, became very popular and have also continued to today. The focus of today's king cake party for kids has shifted more to the school classroom than the home, however. Up through the 1950s, neighborhoods would have parties. One family would start the ball rolling after Twelfth Night, and they'd continue on weekends through Carnival. Whoever got the baby (the coin or bean had changed to a ceramic or porcelain baby about an inch long by then) in the king cake was to hold the next party. You can still hear stories from folks who were kids during the Great Depression of what their mommas would do to them if they came home with the baby from a king cake party, since so many families were short on money then.

"[Today,] schools and offices are the main sites for king cake parties these days. Someone will pick up a cake at the bakery on the way downtown and leave it out for everyone to grab a piece, or mom will send one to school on a Friday for the kids to share. You an always tell the locals from the transfers in any given office because the local knows what to do when he or she gets the baby. The foreigner just drops it on the counter or some such, and possibly might not even bring the next cake. Sacrilege."

Back in the Swing of Things

2008-01-14T14:08:00.001-08:00

I love this picture! This was taken on the grounds of Aly's school. They call this place "Oak Alley" and when the Seniors graduate this is where they walk. I'm hoping to take this same picture at least once a year as our kids grow.

I guess you can say things are returning to normal after the holidays. The kids are back in school, we are all back in taekwondo, and Rhett and I are back to working our "normal" schedules. I ve started a new part time job, and yes I am still working at the casino. I am teaching computer classes (excel, word, powerpoint, publisher) for the Continuing Ed department at the University. It is an awesome opportunity that Rhett and I are really excited about, but it is not a set, steady amount of hours. I am hoping that for the first several months we can put the "extra" money in savings and once we have a cushion I can quit or dramatically cut my hours at the casino.

9 Year's Ago, My Life Changed Forever!

2008-01-09T14:57:00.000-08:00

It was 9 years ago today that Rhett asked me to be his wife. It was not a decision I had to think about, because my heart knew! When I think about how life has changed...it's amazing, and nothing but sweet. So thanks Sweetheart, for getting down on one knee asking me to join you on this awesome journey, and for the last nine years...you've walked in front of me when I needed someone to lead, beside me when I needed someone right there and behind me when I needed a push! Love You!!

Our wedding song was "From this Moment On" by Shania....so I guess a good song now would be "Your still the one!"

Our Weekend Alone!

2008-01-09T14:38:00.000-08:00

So my Dad, being the Saint that he is offered to come keep the kids for the weekend. Rhett and I headed to Galveston. We stayed on the beach, shopped and enjoyed our time alone together. The kids were happy and spoiled when we returned.

2008-01-09T14:25:00.000-08:00

Daddy's Girl.... yep you could call her a Daddy's Girl, but lucky me she is also a Mama's girl. Today when I picked her up from school she ran to me "Mommy, I Love You!" Her teacher said as soon as she saw me she said "There's my Mommy, I Love my Mommy so much" How lucky Rhett and I are to have such a sweet affectionate little one!

Team Theobald

2008-01-09T14:12:00.000-08:00

So here it is.....another year!!

Before we had kids, I was so excited to welcome in each New Year, now I find that I 'd like to cling to it just a little longer. I know it sounds so cliche...but it seems like yesterday all of the kids were infants. This New Year is an especially tough one. The end of 2007 brought about the loss of a dear family member, who will be missed...who I am still unable to imagine what life will be like without.

Aiden

2007-12-29T14:51:00.000-08:00

Aiden received a digital camera for Christmas...and man is he the photographer...this is his favorite picture he took of himself.

Aiden's Christmas Program

2007-12-21T03:00:00.000-08:00

Aiden's class had a great little Christmas program where they sang and danced. They sang about 5 Christmas songs in French and 2 in English. This week was such a sad week in our home that these brief moments of joy and distraction were welcomed by all of us!

Aly's Christmas Breakfast

2007-12-20T20:42:00.000-08:00

Aly's preschool class celebrated Christmas together with a Breakfast, Rhett and I got to attend as well. It was fun, and as always we enjoyed seeing her in her school environment. One of her favorite friends at schools name is Aidan, so Aly loves to tell our Aiden that he has a girls name!

2007-12-05T14:35:00.000-08:00

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2007

I am Thankful
So my last post of the summer was a frustrated one...why is it that I am more likely to blog and talk about my frustrations than celebrate the great things that happen everyday?

We finished out the summer well. We took a nice trip to the ATA World Championships, and all really enjoyed ourselves. School started off well, Sweetie loves her school and so do Rhett and I. The boys school was more of the same, and gradually got worse...Rhett and I made the difficult decision to change their schools. We moved them to another public school with immersion, and most of the problems we were having have subsided...the teachers are great, but we still think we want them to go to a private school. I am just thankful that they are doing well and they are happy.

Ethan has really made a big surge in his French Language profiecency. He speaks it about 70% of his day at school, and does it well. He really enjoys it too. He does not want to go to a school that is not an immersion school. Rhett and I will pray about and try to decide the best course of action for the rest of the year. He is such a good hearted child. He is creative and loves to imagine things. It was so sweet the other day he told me that he wanted to be a super hero when he grows up. Aiden chimed in and said " I thought about that, but I don't want all of that responsibility" Ethan said "Well it's no fun if you can't help people"

Our schedule remains hectic (like most families) but we manage to carve out our time together, and I feel blessed that we all seem well connected. My children give me the gift every day of watching them grow up together.... that was something as a child that I missed out on, but I pray that they will continue to be close as the grow older.

Rhett got a promotion at work, which gave him an extra 6 days off that had to be taken before Jan...so he is off work next week, so he and I will get some time together. We also have our first ever weekend away without kids planned in a few weeks.
We are both excited about that!

Posted by Scatterd at 3:57 PM 0 comments

THURSDAY, JUNE 14, 2007

So now I m 30...now what?
LOL...really I m not freaked about it. I ve already had my time to kick myself for not having my education wrapped up like I had hoped to, and now I m done kicking myself. It's funny though 30 is supposed to be one of those big numbers... maybe by the time I hit the big 40 it will mean more to me who knows?

Posted by Scatterd at 10:39 PM 0 comments

UGH... Parents
So I know I posted that I was feeling a little taken advantage of yesterday well this morning brought the icing for the cake so to speak. One mom shows up with an extra kid in tow, and leaves the extra kid with me just to "observe" so then I had to explain over and over again to her that I didn't have enough supplies so her and her friend would have to share..just as I was kicking myself for not standing up to her another mom walks in wanting me to allow her 4 year old to stay with her daighter...I told her no, I m not a babysitter. We exchanged a few words, she thought I was being unreasonable...but I stuck to my guns. This week Aiden was upstairs with another teachers art class never once did it occur to me to send Sweetie up there just to watch, I mean come on people! I m super glad that next week is a short week, and then I ll have a few weeks off!

Posted by Scatterd at 1:50 PM 0 comments

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 13, 2007

Our gardening
So we started some seeds (tomato, peppers,cucumbers, watermelon, and various herbs and lettuce) about 10 days ago, and now we have plants !! Tomorrow I will order some hydroponic garb and we will get started on our little experiment. Really since we moved our lives have slowed down and become more simple...and we will continue to try to move that way!

The first week of summer the boys attended day camp at the Academy of the Sacred Heart...and enjoyed all of the activities they had for them everyday (horseback riding, taekwondo, hiking, basketball, swimming, music, and arts and crafts)! I think it was the perfect transition for them into summer. This week Ethan is doing a half day rock climbing camp, Aiden is doing a half day art camp, and Sweetie is with me at my art camp. Yesterday Ethan proclaimed "Mom, I really like you! THanks for thinking of things I like and putting me in camps that are fun." I m glad they are enjoying themselves, every kids deserves a fun summer camp experience. I ll also be glad to have them home, but it's all a balancing act...to some degree I think they need to have a few things of their own to do.

Posted by Scatterd at 9:19 PM 0 comments

Feeling a little taken advantage of!
So I m "teaching" summer art camps right now...I had 4-6 year olds (25 of them) last week, this week we have 20 6-12 year olds. I have several parents who drop their kids off at 8:30am class doesn't start until 9am, and then they show up around 12:20 to pick them up...class is over at noon! I feel like the bad guy when I say you know it's really not time for class yet, or you need to pick them up on time...I don't want the kids to feel bad, but come on people!
Other than that complaint it really is going pretty well. I enjoy giving kids time just to play with art supplies, I keep my "agenda's" loose and really just try to go with whatever vibe the kids are giving. As much as I like it, I am ready for next Thurs which will start a weekend family vacation of sorts...to the ATA Taekwondo world championships. followed by several weeks of peaceful non commitment to anything!!! So I will enjoy the kids at home, and probably not go anywhere if I can avoid it. I have one more week of camp to teach in July but that's it...the rest of the summer is ours!

FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2007

Just another day in paradise
Today He got up around 7am with the kiddos and I slept about 45 minutes. When I woke up I came out to Rhett and the kids all cuddled up on the couch under a big blanket watching Scooby Doo.... what a great thing to wake up to, your sweet children cuddling with your sweet Husband and all as happy as clams. I fixed the kiddo's breakfast and got dressed. When he left for work the kids and I ran to the library and by the grocery store. We were home by 11 and I fixed lunch, read to the kids let them watch tv for about 30 minutes and we all took a nap. He came home for lunch just as everyone was waking up. We headed outside to the little pool we bought (its 40 inches deep) for about an hour. After coming in we all settled in and watched the Sugar Creek Gang that we had checked out at the library. This is our last day of calm for a little while. The next few weeks the kids will be at various camps and I will be teaching camps for the next three weeks.

Posted by Scatterd at 3:24 PM 0 comments

THURSDAY, MAY 31, 2007

The Boys are out of School
Tuesday was the boys last day of school, and I am so glad. It's nice to have them home, and Rhett and I have actually slept until 8 am a couple of days. With the school year ending I have mixed feelings, I am pleased because I feel like the boys are learning alot..but I am weary because I feel like Ethan is a victim of Public School categorization. Because he has a speech delay, it seems the teachers are just looking for a disabled category to place him in.His teacher was sold on the idea that he was dyslexic...being that my husband is dyslexic I thought that might be possible, so I agreed and I did all of the leg work needed so that he would be assessed. The expert said, she didn't really know why Ethan was sent for assessment that even though his writing is messy he shows no signs of dyslexia. His teacher then suggested maybe he is ADD, even though all year long she tells me how attentive and focused he is in class, and he had 100% in conduct all year long...geez is she just searching for some label? Ethan does fine in school, mostly B's some A's, one C (an 82% which is a C in his school) he just has a rough time with his handwriting... Hubby and I have decided that the school just needs to leave him alone. The worst part is that E knows that his teacher thinks he is slow, and it's starting to effect his self esteem. Next year he will return to the same school, but the following year I am hoping to move him to a smaller private school. I will become the weird parent who refuses to allow the school to "screen" for disabilities

Today I registered for some online courses through LSU, I have a few petty basics to get out of the way before I can finsih up my last 3 semesters so I was thrilled to find an online option. My art camps start next week, and my first one is full with 25 kiddos ages 4-6...oh goodness, hopefully the week goes by fast.