What's Makin' Me Crazy.....

This hole in the wall!

Out of fairness to the kids, check out how thin the drywall is, I've seen thicker poster board.


That our garage looks like this!
And most likely, we won't have a garage in Japan......so where is it all going?


The inside of our car looks like this!
Pride of ownership wains when you've only got months left with it.


Grubby, stubby, broken crayons everywhere! I feel like I'm keeping Crayola in business.


My favorite dress still doesn't fit!
Let me re-phrase that..... It fits, but I would be doing it a disservice by wearing it right now. I had big plans to wear it by Thanksgiving.....what happened? Sometimes, setting goals makes their failure a magnified disappointment.

What's Makin' Me Giggle....

Four year old 'Muffin Top'!


A sneaky monkey thrilled with the stairs.

Max's songwriting skills. He comes up with little diddys every other day...and is happy to perform. He wasn't ready for video yet... "It still needs more practice Mom."
(Good thing, cause I haven't figured out video feed yet)


My baby stalker! Tobias is so great at entertaining himself......as long as I'm within two feet. He gets a look of panic if I change location.


Mark's 'Buzz Lightyear' Chin!
It's great to have a dashing husband........he makes me all giggly.

Hypochondriac Or Couch Potato?

"I think I need Mucinex mom." Max says "I've been coughing for over a week and all of those other things too." "We should get that for me."
It's true, he has had a persistent cough, but it has no substance, so I figured it would pass. Now I'm wondering....... have I been ignoring his health needs or is he a victim of cartoon advertising for adult products?
VOTE HERE

Gung Hay Fat Choy!

Max is a Snake! He came home from school on Monday greeting us with a "Happy Chinese New Year!" and "Guess what, I was born in the Year of the Snake, so I'm going to make lots of money." I love enthusiastic learning, and I liked the sound of that. (He earned a high five)......but I figured we might want to double check a couple of the facts he picked up.
He already enjoys Internet searching so here is a little of what we found:

Chinese New Year started January 26th and last 15 days. (2009 is the Year of the Ox, it's supposed to be a good year for Snakes)

How Your House Should Be Cleaned
The entire house should be cleaned before New Year's Day. On New Year's Eve, all brooms, brushes, dusters, dust pans and other cleaning equipment are put away. Sweeping or dusting should not be done on New Year's Day for fear that good fortune will be swept away. After New Year's Day, the floors may be swept. Beginning at the door, the dust and rubbish are swept to the middle of the parlor, then placed in the corners and not taken or thrown out until the fifth day. At no time should the rubbish in the corners be trampled upon. In sweeping, there is a superstition that if you sweep the dirt out over the threshold, you will sweep one of the family away. Also, to sweep the dust and dirt out of your house by the front entrance is to sweep away the good fortune of the family; it must always be swept inwards and then carried out, then no harm will follow. All dirt and rubbish must be taken out the back door. (Yikes, this is sooooo not gonna happen at our house)

Bringing In the New Year and Expelling the Old
Shooting off firecrackers on New Year's Eve is the Chinese way of sending out the old year and welcoming in the New Year. On the stroke of midnight on New Year's Eve, every door in the house, and even windows, have to be open to allow the old year to go out.
New Year Activities Set Precedent
All debts had to paid by this time. Nothing should be lent on this day, as anyone who does so will be lending all the year. Back when tinder and flint were used, no one would lend them on this day or give a light to others.

Everyone should refrain from using foul language and bad or unlucky words. Negative terms and the word "four" (Ssu), which sounds like the word for death, are not to be uttered. Death and dying are never mentioned and ghost stories are totally taboo. References to the past year are also avoided as everything should be turned toward the New Year and a new beginning.

If you cry on New Year's day, you will cry all through the year. Therefore, children are tolerated and are not spanked, even though they are mischievous.

Personal Appearance and Cleanliness
On New Year's Day, we are not suppose to wash our hair because it would mean we would have washed away good luck for the New Year. Red clothing is preferred during this festive occasion. Red is considered a bright, happy color, sure to bring the wearer a sunny and bright future. It is believed that appearance and attitude during New Year's sets the tone for the rest of the year. Children and unmarried friends, as well as close relatives are given lai see, little red envelopes with crisp one dollar bills inserted, for good fortune.

More New Year Superstitions
For those most superstitious, before leaving the house to call on others, the Almanac should be consulted to find the best time to leave the home and the direction which is most auspicious to head out.

The first person one meets and the first words heard are significant as to what the fortunes would be for the entire year. It is a lucky sign to see or hear songbirds or red-colored birds or swallows.

It is considered unlucky to greet anyone in their bedroom so that is why everyone, even the sick, should get dressed and sit in the living room.

Do not use knives or scissors on New Year's Day as this may cut off fortune.

While many Chinese people today may not believe in these do's and don'ts, these traditions and customs are still practiced. These traditions and customs are kept because most families realize that it is these very traditions, whether believed or not, that provide continuity with the past and provide the family with an identity.


The most interesting part for Max was the Chinese Zodiac
he wanted to find out what sign we each are, these are just the highlights:

The Snake

It turns out that Mark and Max were both born in the year of the Snake. Max is a Metal Snake and Mark a Fire Snake. (That might explain some differences)
People born in the year of the snake are considered sexy, romantic, enigmatic, mysterious, grand, wise, enchanting and mystical in their spirituality.Snakes react with delight to music. Although, persons born under this sign may seem sexually cold, when music is turned on, they writhe in delight and perform enchanting love and routines. The most celebrated singers, poets and rock stars are born under the sign of the snake. They belong on stage where they are distant, not dangerous, and their charms are enjoyed, and where they are least dangerous. Persons born under this sign have the power to move souls. Snakes are not created on this Earth for entertainment purposes or to work like the Ox; their responsibility in society is to keep the useless population in check, either to force them to be productive through fear of consequences, or to eliminate the counter-productive, destructive, parasitic ones from the skivving off the labor of the human social system. These people have a special talent that enables them to judge situations correctly. The only sign that can possibly overcome the snake is the mythical sign of the Dragon with its superhuman benevolence and love.
(Some of these came as a surprise, some did not. I have to say that Mark won me over on the dance floor........ for a big guy, he has some moves.)

The Dragon

Kate was born in the Year of the Dragon
The Dragon is omnipotent. They are flamboyant, attractive and full of vitality and strength. In China, the Dragon is the sign of the Emperor of China or the male element Yang. The Dragon is the symbol of power and wealth.

It would be right to say that people born in the year of the dragon have a natural charisma and are certainly gifted with power and luck. It is unlikely for them to escape unnoticed from a party or to take second place in a competition. The dragon person has an active mind and shows an unfeigned interest in the world around them
If a dragon's friend faces a problem or dilemma, they will be there to offer help, and when others leave the field of battle the dragon takes a step forward to solve the problem with authority and dignity. Dragons set a high standard of actions for themselves as well as for other people and are surprised when others cannot cope with a task; they are so carried away by the process that they fail to see other people's weaknesses.
Ideal jobs for dragons include kings, military officer, physician, politician.
(I kind of think I'm not living up to my potential)

The Monkey
Ms. Lillian is a Monkey and this is no surprise.
The Monkey is the most versatile sign of the Chinese zodiac. Such people are often inventors, plotters, entertainers and the creative geniuses behind anything ingenious, including mischief. They have natural quick-wittedness which enables them to understand what is happening and then make a right decision.Monkeys have flexible principles and serene self-confidence so they are completely content; but they usually manage to complicate the lives of others. After yet another plan or project has gone wrong, they are seldom there to help clean up the disorder and confusion that they leave in their wake. Monkeys can handle that too; with their charm and persuasiveness they can make people believe that just knowing them is a privilege. The monkey person is most compatible with all animals.
(Again, not a shocker)

The Rat
Tobias was born in The Year of the Rat
Being the first sign of the Chinese zodiac, rats are leaders, pioneers and conquerors. They are charming, passionate, determined, tenacious, intelligent, attractive, seductive, charismatic, practical and hardworking. Rat people are endowed with great leadership skills and are the most highly organized, meticulous, militaristic, and systematic of the twelve signs. Intelligent and cunning at the same time, rats are highly ambitious and strong-willed people who are keen and unapologetic promoters of their own agendas, which often include power, wealth, and status. Behind the smiles and charm, a strong sense of entitlement lurks deep within these people, and to go along with that, Rats can be arrogant and extremely deceptive and selfish. Rats at their worst are terribly Machiavellian, vindictive and power-hungry - always insisting on having things their way no matter what the cost. They are masters of mind games and can be very dangerous, calculative and downright cruel if the need arises. Quick-tempered and aggressive, they will not think twice about exacting revenge on those that hurt or impede them in any way and would gladly see them suffer. Rats need to learn to relax sometimes, as they can be quite obsessed with detail, intolerant and strict, demanding order, obedience, and perfection. (This one scares me a little)

Mark chimed in with a "You know none of this is true, it's just pretend Max."
Max, always quick with an argument said "But it's good things, and good things should be true......."

If your still reading this and interested in finding out what sign you were born under, click here Chinese Zodiac.

So this was fun, and due to some serious cut/copy/and pasting, it is now in fact, the worlds longest post.......... I promise to never do it again.

Gung Hay Fat Choy Everyone!

Love And Some KEVLAR Drywall

When I say my prayers at night, I rarely ask for things. Most days, I feel overwhelmingly grateful for all that I have, maybe even guilty. So when I pray, it's full of giving thanks, and thoughts and hopes for others.
But there is one thing I consistently ask for, I ask "That I may have understanding with my husband. That I may see through to what he really means and needs, and that I can meet those needs with compassion and understanding."

And prayers are answered.........

Yesterday I had a revelation.........Mark really loves his family! I mean really, really, really, really, really loves us! So much so, that the idea of something bad ever happening to any of us......completely overwhelms him. So to feel that he has some control in the matter ......he fixates on safety and prevention. It comes to an equation something like this:
Mark x Love divided by (four days of FEMA training)= KEVLAR Drywall for his safe room. (Yes this does exist, so lots of husbands must demonstrate their love this way).

I usually tighten up a little when he starts talking about his "dream bomb shelter"....wondering about the first step we're skipping over, like the "dream house" in which to build this blast proof room.
And when I come home from a big ticket dental repair he only shakes his head sadly and says..."That's two guns I could have bought". Seriously.
(He doesn't deal in terms of dollars, it's terms of guns and ammo.)
These are moments when I need the extra help with patience and understanding. These are moments when I need to see through to what he really means.
And now I know.
If he can checklist all the Natural/Man-Made Disaster possibilities, and meet them with a ready plan, and if he can stockpile and train for the worst case scenario.......maybe, just maybe, he can sleep peacefully knowing his heart is safe.

I don't mean to air dirty laundry, but we actually got into an argument about whether or not you should be willing to standoff with the police if they try to confiscate your weapons................ anyone have these arguments?

He must really love us!

Here's a little gem....

So I stumbled upon another little gem of a movie......if your in the mood for a movie that will make you smile, may I recommend...

Just some random evening........

I feel guilty when I haven't blogged for week......I wouldn't want people to loose interest. (And a week turns into two, and then months go by.....Shannon!) But the truth is we haven't been up to much worth noting. I need to think outside the box and make the mundane seem interesting. So here we go....on some random night you can find..........
Me sorting through stacks of forms to fill out (for our move) or surfing for online forms to fill out, or websites we've been referred to for forms, reservations, location info..etc...etc... I've had a heads up for awhile, but now that we've gotten our orders it's full speed ahead, and the clock is ticking......... Oh by the way can I say a big CHA-CHING$$$$ for all the last minute expenses.
Mark

leading his team on SOCOM.........saving the world, galaxy, universe....??.......whatever.

Little Mr. Peabody chillin' Au Natural.

Tobias has decided he can stand up and maybe even walk........his balancing skills say otherwise. He also thinks everything is more fun when naked!
Here he is again, minding his own beeswax..........
and then in swoops the crazies... Max tries to pick him up every chance he gets. He loves to snuggle and love on his chubby wubby drooly little brother........ohhhhh the love!

And Lillian....
Lillian has watched 'Mamma Mia!' at least once a day, for the last two weeks........she LOVES it! and has decided life should be a musical!

Dinner With The Cousins

Little Tobias hasn't met his cousins yet.....but he knows their faces very well. It just ended up that in our cramped cozy little house, the only place to park his highchair ended up eye level with this picture. The picture of all his little cousins. He is completely enthralled, three times a day.......it's as if he's seeing it for the first time, every time.
It's so cute how babies LOVE babies. He enjoys the company with dinner.

"I'm Moving On To Cubism"

Max has declared himself a Cubist.......not the country, the style. It's his new favorite style. He was introduced to Picasso this last term and he LOVES IT! Max's previous work could be described as his 'Abstract Period', heavy on self portraits. (I kinda think all works done by six and under could be described that way). Abstract- was a word to give meaning and ummph to whatever he intended (especially when drawing with icing on a toaster struedel).
I was impressed when he gave this to Mark for Christmas........ I also loved his interpretation of 'Starry Night' by Van Gogh.....but I was most impressed when he knew about the rivalry between Picasso and Matisse.....the little guy is paying attention!

Happy Birthday Milly!

So I had big plans for your birthday....a tribute, an homage.... but a few days past due it may have lost some thunder.
(funny how life gets in the way of blogging)

Any who.......I want to wish you a 'Super Happy Birthday' Milly! This year I felt especially sad, realizing I hadn't been able to share a big birthday bash with you or Michael in our adult years.....(we're always so far away). But I know the world is a better place for having you here because,

You are every ones Favorite Aunt! The kids can sense your genuine interest in them...and they love it. (plus you take them cool places... and I know you've taken Max to more movies than I have...)

Your 'livin the dream' as an artist. I love to talk about my sister the artist. You pursue your passions and it is such a wonderful example to all of us. Check her out here. MyArtSpace

Your fearless. You walk with confidence and intention....and although some of your stories scare me to death.... you never let anyone scare you away from what you want.

You are an animal lover and plant savior. If a magic 'green thumb' is possible...than I know you have it. I still marvel about the time you babysat my dinky houseplant (about three inches), and after two months you had nursed it to four feet....crazy.

Your the best kind of friend to have. I know that each and every time I talk with you, I'm getting 110% of you. Your genuine interest and attention is felt. It's a unique quality that is hard to find and must be felt to recognize.
And last but not least...............I'm super proud that your my sister.
For all the reasons above, and because if you weren't my sister I might not have been lucky enough to have met you as a friend....I'm so grateful that I have you in my life. You have taught me how sensitive people can be and how thoughtful. Your a color in my life, that I wouldn't have on my own........but need.
I love you and hope you had a great birthday.

OHHHYAAAA! You gotta know I'm gonna break out my favorite pic......that's right......we're rockin' the 80's! We make 86' look goooooood. (Go turquoise!)

Our Latest Family Pictures

I don't mean to sound like I'm bragging .....but I think their fabulous! Thank you so much Amanda K. Photography (www.amandakphotography.net). Katie did such a wonderful job, and they turned out even better than I imagined!

He Has A Future In Crop Circles

Let me start by saying I absolutely love 'The Learning Tree'. This might just end up sounding like a blogging commercial for 'The Learning Tree' (located next to Garlic Jims, off of Bucklin Hill Rd in Silverdale)
For Max this is 'The Toy Store', and his excitement for it stems back a few years, when he received a gift certificate as a Birthday present. The idea of a special certificate that allows the freedom to choose (almost anything he wants) and then pay for it all by himself....is magical to a six year old!
And when invited to a birthday party, this is where we go to find hidden treasures.
So, a few months ago.......fresh with the afterglow of a great Parent Teacher conference (IE: "Max is showing a great strength in Math) it didn't take much for him to talk me into a little something for himself while birthday gift shopping for a friend . And what really sealed the deal was the "This is what I want, these blocks are just like the ones my teacher uses in our classroom!"
And let me just tell you, of all toy purchases, these little unassuming geometrical blocks have been the biggest hit of all time! From day one, Max (and Lillian) will happily create ...for hours on end... these delightful little Crop Circle Art arrangements.

A strange precedent was set on day one though. With his initial excitement, I happily took a picture of his works.......but now..... upon completion of each masterpiece, Max still expects a picture to be taken (before it gets dismantled).
Soooooooooo ...... I have around 235 pictures of these.
Maybe I'll make a neat tile mosaic for his wall...............

Teething Solutions

This is Mark's idea of a teething solution,

What's In A Name?

Congratulations to my brother Brian! Last week he and Marina introduced their third little one into the world. (three under three.....Yikes)
From what I understand, it took a little while for name inspiration to hit. But you can now welcome...................................Deebo!
And you thought movies stars were the only ones with crazy names. When the Reed cousins get together at the family reunion it might sound a little something like this:

"Hey Max, What's up....ha, ha, I met a dog named Max" says Boston

"Ya whatever Boston! How you doin" says Max

"I'm alright, where's your bro Tobias."

"Tobias is hangin' over there with Diesel and Deebo."

(On a lighter note the girls all have beautiful names.....Lillian, Hannah, and Shaloh).

In 2009 I will......

-Give up T.V. (with the exception of two movies a week).

-Teach each child something new, everyday.

-Give Mark a great big passionate kiss, everyday.

-Become more decisive. (meaning faced with non life-altering decisions, count to ten, decide, and move on)

-Give up the "Why distraction".
Over the years I've found it a strange habit to look at someone wonderful....something enviable, something I want for myself....and then get distracted with a "why not me, why didn't I, why couldn't I, why did I......" train of thought.
This has never accomplished anything.
I now have the firm belief that "Why" doesn't really matter. Even if we found out the reason, it will not change our Today.
What matters is "Now I'm going to, Now I will, Now I know.....etc.
This year I will pull out of neutral (maybe even reverse), and move towards who I want to be.

-Continue blogging, I love this outlet! It has finally given me a reason to put my brain into first and second gear.

-Stop taking pictures with us looking directly into the camera.

-Learn how to improve the quality of the pictures I take.

-Discover my personal style, and stick to it! Stop shopping on the clearance rack only. (An ugly shirt is still ugly....even if it's $6.00) I'll save money in the long run, by not coming to my senses later and chucking it.

-Try a new activity, place, game, restaurant, book, or experience with the family once a week.

Today I love.....

that Mark went to the store for some computer cable and came back with a surprise lipgloss for me..... just because he remembered I was out of my favorite pink.

(I also love picturing him sorting through lipgloss bins)

I love that Lillian is such a goofball!

I love that while Tobias took a nap, Max decided to build him a surprise fort......
...."see, I put all his toys inside and some snacks too."

I love that Tobias is happy as long as he is within 2 1/2 feet from me.