That's Really Saying Something

Brady: "Mommy, I love you even more than my blanket!"

Firsts

Here are a few firsts from the last week;

Wesley sucked down his first cupcake. Literally, he sucked it like he was sucking out of a straw. It was fascinating to watch.

Yesterday I woke up with renewed energy for the first time after my surgery. I haven't had this much energy since I started having gall bladder problems almost three years ago. It was such a fantastic day. I couldn't believe how much I accomplished, including this;

Bethanie had a first yesterday as well. She and a  friend made chocolate cookies without their control freak moms hanging over their shoulders. ;) We were so impressed with how they turned out. They did a great job.

This Is My Step-Dad

Brady: "Dad, what is the difference between a dad and a step dad?"
Sean: "People have a step-dad if something happened to their dad and their mom marries someone else."
Brady: "Something happened to you. You were robbed when you were in California. I am going to call you my step dad."

Warning: Gross Post

I had gall bladder surgery yesterday. I would like to put it in the records for my posterity. We are wiping out our health savings account in the first month of 2013.

17 gallstones were removed and it was reported to my husband by the Dr that my gall bladder was very inflamed and looking pretty rough.
In the words of my drugged up, post-op self; "I am a rock star."

(Post-op, seeing double)

(In case you ever wondered what a rock star's gall stones look like.)

Prepare to Be Impressed

Brady to his friend: "Isabelle, I have a surprise for you! Guess what is under my coat? A really handsome shirt! Just wait until you see it!
Isabelle: "I don't care."
Brady (looking shocked): "But it's really handsome!"

(Picture of Brady in his handsome shirt)

Freddy the Fire Bellied Frog

Sadie is glowing. Beyond excited. Freddy the fire bellied frog came home with her to stay.
Anyone who has spoken more than a few words with Sadie in the last couple of years is aware that she LOVES frogs. She is obsessed.
She was pretty excited when Santa dropped off a tank for her on Christmas. The aquarium included a note saying that she could pick out a frog from the pet store when we got back from visiting family.
Freddy is about 2 inches long and very fun to watch.

Happy New Year

This year we rang in the new year in snowy upstate NY. Lots of snow, lots of cold. The kids did a lot of sledding with cousins. We had fun visiting with Grandma, and were able to see great grand parents and Aunt Jeanne.
On New Year's Eve the adults headed to bed at about 10:30. The 4 oldest kids fell asleep at 1 am! I am so glad they could party in our behalf.