The 4 Caetanos

Where?

2012-01-27T21:26:00.000-08:00

Where to go is the question of the day.

Tip of the day: Never, ever try to fit a square peg in a round hole.

A Little of....

2012-01-25T20:49:00.000-08:00

I sit here listening to the water run down the drain spout and wonder if anyone else in the world is doing the same right at the same moment.

Tip of the day: Remember the good days and learn from the not so good ones.

Winter Wonderland

2012-01-23T14:02:00.000-08:00

Looking outside right now, you would never know that this picture was taken last week. What a beautiful and fun week! I was very happy to start this week off with the routine. I forget how important routines are for the young ones in our house. I am looking forward to some more snow, but right this minute I will take this blue sky and sunshine.

Tip of the day: Get back to normal as soon as possible.

Football

2012-01-22T20:29:00.001-08:00

I am so glad the end of football season is near.
RIP Joe!

Basketball

2012-01-21T16:55:00.000-08:00

Today was the first official day of Y basketball. What a crazy day! They had team pictures and a quick practice. Suppose to be games but the 1st practice was cancelled because of snow. Coaching 3 and 4 year olds was like hearding cats, but really fun! Looking forward to Tuesday's practice.

Snow Day #5

2012-01-20T16:14:00.000-08:00

Another day in the snow. Everyone is really ready for school to start up again. I took the kids to "We Bought A Zoo" just to get out of the house. Good movie but a bit sad as my kids said.

snow day #4

2012-01-19T20:08:00.001-08:00

Another day out in the snow. The temp was warmer today. Hoping for school tomorrow.

Snow Day #3

2012-01-18T12:45:00.000-08:00

This is the fun stuff that happens on our hill when it snows. These two tried to use their brakes instead of shifting down.

Tip of the day: make friends with people who own trucks.

Snow Day #2

2012-01-17T15:58:00.001-08:00

I think she liked having the day off school!

What Could Be Better?

2012-01-16T15:18:00.000-08:00

A Birthday and a snow day!

PEOPLE, HUMANS

2012-01-11T14:24:00.000-08:00

There are people I want to hug.
There are human I want to kiss.
There are beings I want to talk to.
There are individuals I want be friends with.
And then there are characters I want to punch in the head.

Author-ME

Tip of the day: Take it in while it is around.......(Vitamin D)

Great Friends

2012-01-09T15:29:00.000-08:00

As I have written before, I know that I have some of the world's best friends. After a rough start to 1st grade with having to deal with a bully in her class, I am happy to say that Reece has found some good girls to be friends with. We had three of them over right before Christmas. They all feed the ducks, played Littlest Pet Shop and frosted cookies. She has been invited over for a play date with them later this week. I am excited for her to finally have some fun with some girls.

Tip of the day: When dealing with school issues be your child's advocate.

Christmas 2011 Update

2012-01-06T12:00:00.000-08:00

Wow, it has been awhile! We have been very busy this Holiday Season, with what I have no clue. Now, Fredy is sick and Terry is back in Korea. I have just a minute to update the blog.
These pictures are two that captured my children at Christmas. Fredy is so into guns and Star Wars. Hmmm....is he related to Terry or what? Reece was so excited about her new collection of Zhufari Zhu Zhu pets but unfortunately now that school has started back up, she really is not getting any time to play with them. She is looking forward to the weekend to do so. She is not happy about school especially the learning part, not so much the social aspect of it. I am working on somethings to get her in a better mood about it while trying to keep positive about it too. I have been thinking alot about where would be the best fit for her, another 1st grade class at her school or another school or just stick it out in the class she is in now. Why was it so easy for my parents to just put me in the neighborhood school and have things go well? Terry's mom put him in a private school when he was young. I need to ask why?

As a wrote previously, Fredy is sick and going to the doctors today. I had to unexpectedly buy tires for my car the other day. We just put new tires on Terry's car too. I am wondering what expense will come next. It seems to always come right after the Holidays. Why is that? I was wanting to escape with Terry for awhile in February but I do not see that happening. However, I am looking forward to getting together with my girlfriends in a couple of weeks and Fredy's 4th Birthday.
I wish you all a Happy New Year and many daily blessings.

Tip of the day: Bleach, bleach, and bleach some more when the kids are sick.....

Santa Again?

2011-12-17T15:55:00.000-08:00

This afternoon Santa and the WCFD were roaming the neighborhood with trucks to collect toys and food. My children picked out a few things for the drive, those 3 boxes full. Reece even stood next to the man in red! Fredy wanted nothing to do with him even though he was chanting Santa's name when he drove by in the firetruck.

Santa Over the Years

2011-12-16T11:56:00.000-08:00

Just a few of the pictures with Santa from years past.

Gymnastics #2

2011-12-15T20:45:00.000-08:00

Fredy's Gymnastics show

Kindergarten

2011-12-13T19:39:00.000-08:00

Wow another day in Kindergarten.
It was just about lunch time and a heard a boy crying while trying to blow his nose.
Joey what is wrong?
There is something hard in my nose and it hurts.
Did you put something up there?
No, it just hurts. I want to call my mom.
Let me take the class to lunch first.
Ok.
I got the whole class ready for lunch and took them to the lunch room.
I did not hear another word about his nose. When it was time to go home I saw his mom and told her the situation. She looked up his nose and pulled out a bead.
WHAT?
I did ask him if he put something up there. Lunch was at 11:00 and he got picked up at 3:00. The bead was up there for 4 hours. YIKES!

Tip of the day; Never, ever put anything up your nose or your friends nose.

Gymnastics

2011-12-12T19:05:00.001-08:00

Here is Reece doing a beam routine at her gymnastics show.

Her uneven bar routine.

Recipe Thursday.....3 days late

2011-12-11T11:35:00.000-08:00

Virgin Lemonade
Flavored Vodka (raspberry, strawberry, blueberry)
Frozen berries to match flavored Vodka

Cup full of ice, pour desired amount of Vodka over ice, fill glass with lemonade and add a few frozen berries.
ENJOY!

Great drink for a hot day or when you need a quick pick me up.

Tip of the day: unplug the string of Christmas lights before you staple them to the house.

One More!

2011-12-09T22:31:00.000-08:00

People think that all 3 could be mine. I have had people say or ask if they are all mine. I know that Reece and Fredy look just like me and each other, but does Andrew look like a sibling?
I don't see it but there are times when they are playing together that they fight like siblings.

Tip of the day: Do not leave cat food out... you'll get wild creatures.

Christmas Music

2011-12-07T09:15:00.000-08:00

OK so I looked through the 100s of CDs we have looking for some Christmas music to play in the car. Well, there is not much and what we have is from the 60's, 70's and 80's. Don't get me wrong they, or at least some, of them are great. But I think we are in need of some new ones. Today, I will buy Michael Buble and Justin Beiber Christmas albums. I heard both of them singing last night on the Michael Buble Christmas Special and think they will be good for our selection.

Tip of the day: hide the Christmas gifts well if you do not wrap instantly.

BASKETBALL FOR THE KIDS HAS STARTED!!!!!!!

Thursday Recipe

2011-12-01T16:14:00.000-08:00

Tis' the season for parties and hors d'oeuvres.
Here is a great one and it is easy.
8oz. of cream cheese
1 jar of pepper jelly (red or green)
Box of crackers
I usually get a jar of red and a jar of green pepper jelly and pour half of them over the top of the cream cheese. That way it is festive. Yum!

Tip of the day: If you ask for a list, which I do not like people to ask for, but if you do.......use it!

No Tears!

2011-11-26T14:49:00.000-08:00

No tears this year while visiting Santa at Yeagers. Fredy told him he wanted Star War figures and of course Reece said she wanted Littlest Pet Shops.

Day 9

2011-11-22T13:42:00.000-08:00

Day 9: Good Books

#8

2011-11-21T19:18:00.001-08:00

Day 8: My hair

Day 7

2011-11-20T13:28:00.001-08:00

Day 7: Sunshine

Tip of the day: watch your step on the frosty driveway.

Humble

2011-11-19T19:04:00.000-08:00

If you know me, you know that I have a very soft place in my heart for those that have disabilities. Today, I spent the afternoon at a 30th Birthday party for one of my friend's daughter, who has DS. The church was full of people with various disabilities. Let me tell you, this was the most fun birthday party I have ever been to. It was a Disney theme. A lot of people dressed up or wore Disney shirts or Mickey Mouse ears. They sang Karaoke to Disney movie songs and danced. There were millions of smiles, tons of laughs and a billion hugs. Talk about humbling!

Day 5: My Faith
Day 6: My Freedom

Tip of the day: Do not judge by appearance, the most lovable creatures on earth appear to be dangerous.

Day 2 thru Day 4

2011-11-17T19:03:00.001-08:00

Day 2: My Family
Day 3: My Friends
Day 4: My Education

Tip of the day: Always have extra batteries for flashlights.

Two Weeks

2011-11-14T20:14:00.001-08:00

To come: two weeks of what I am thankful for

Day 1: My Health

Joe

2011-11-10T22:06:00.000-08:00

A bit of advice..... next time dial 911!

Is football so important that people lose their morals and humanity?
Enough said.

Here Comes........

2011-11-07T20:46:00.001-08:00

Today was spent screening students vision, doctors appointment and x-rays for Fredy and myself. Two trips to Haggens and a lot of coughing. Both Fredy and I are on medication to get rid of walking pneumonia. We are on the mend. Terry leaves again tomorrow for Korea. We will see him again the day before Thanksgiving.

Tip of the day: As my good friend Jen said, don't wait for a cough to just go away, get it checked out.

The Faces of Halloween Past

2011-11-01T11:29:00.000-07:00

2005

2006

2007

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2011

Tip of the day: remember to take photos each Halloween on the front porch!!!!

BAT

2011-10-27T10:17:00.001-07:00

Dress up day at Preschool.

SIGNS

2011-10-26T19:51:00.001-07:00

Today while stopped at a light Fredy said from the backseat of the car, "That sign has some of my name in it." Sure enough the sign read, "Stop on line when RED".
He is learning how to recognize his name. Teacher Jacquie, I think he has it down.

Tip of the day: Don't second guess yourself.

Fall Colors

2011-10-23T19:58:00.000-07:00

Every year I take pictures of the kids in the fall leaves. This year Fredy was not into picture taking. He stuck his tongue out the whole time except when I said to act like he was peeing like a dog.

Tea Time

2011-10-21T20:47:00.000-07:00

What am I talking about...? I mean coffee and lots of it, maybe a little Kaluha in it too!
Going to make it happen. Well maybe bed and sleep first.

Tip of the day: Invest in a natural light lamp.

Sunny Days

2011-10-17T20:15:00.000-07:00

This is how Fredy has spent the last couple of sunny days!

A boy and his hoop!

Tip of the day: Read, Read, Read and Read some more and mix a little basketball in.

Daddy Time

2011-10-11T11:35:00.000-07:00

Here is a great example of why every boy needs a daddy.

With Daddy gone so frequently, Fredy does not get to use the Men's bathroom in public often. He has been potty trained since his 3rd Birthday, which is in January. Fredy's new thing is to stand up and pee, now that he is tall enough. At his preschool there is a urinal in the bathroom that is short enough for boys his age. Yesterday, while at his school, he had to use the bathroom. I thought I would peek in on him while in there to make sure he was not playing around.
This is what I saw and said:
Fredy with his underwear and pants down around his ankles.
He has on his tip toes peeing into the urinal.
When finished he turned around and lifted himself into the urinal.
I asked him, "What are you doing?"
His response was, "I'm going poop."
I think it is time for Daddy to show him what a urinal is for!

Tip of the day: when asking a child a question, be prepared for the answer.

Cousins

2011-10-06T11:36:00.000-07:00

My children look forward to going to Bakersfield for many reasons but the top two have to do with animals and relatives, especially COUSINS!
This is Reece and Fredy with their cousins Bailey and Brandie.

Tip of the day from my niece's Brandies's room: Everyday there is a possibility for a miracle!

California

2011-09-29T17:32:00.000-07:00

Yep. Bakersfield again for vacation. The air quality is horrible but the sun is out and the temp is high. Today was spent in or next to the pool doing homework. The kids are now waterlogged and husband is eating dinner. We are headed to our niece's soccer game and maybe stop for a cool treat on the way back to Nana's house.
I am glad I am here and not in the rain in WA!

Tip of the day: when in Bako bring nose spray.

Goodbye Summer

2011-09-26T13:02:00.000-07:00

Well fall is here. There is no doubt about it. The temp has dropped, the wind has picked up and the rain is coming down. Thank goodness I am leaving for California tomorrow!!!!!

What?

2011-09-20T11:49:00.000-07:00

I was surprised to wake up to sunshine these last couple of days. It makes me so much happier and functional.
I love it! Keep it coming.

Tip of the day: When something feels wrong with your car, get it fixed right away!

2011-09-15T19:53:00.000-07:00

Two days now of preschool and I am loving it. I am getting things done, ie...essays for my online class. Hip Hip Hooray for preschool! Next year it will be 3 days per week. Just imagine what I can get done in three days!

Tip of the day: soak up the sunshine when it makes an appearance. It wouldn't be around much longer.

Preschool

2011-09-13T10:28:00.000-07:00

Fredy's first day!!!

School, Farm and Sand

2011-09-12T20:48:00.000-07:00

BEACH

Olympic Game Farm

Ferry ride to Port Townsend

Fredy starts school tomorrow, Yeah!

Tip of the day: have all errands, house cleaned and laundry done before working on school work.

1st grade

2011-09-08T13:39:00.000-07:00

1st grade started out great! Lots of her Kindergarten classmates are in her 1st grade class. We have heard great things about Mrs. B.

School?

2011-09-01T20:34:00.000-07:00

Reece is not excited about starting school, but I am!
I am keeping my fingers crossed right now. Just returned from her school from a meeting and everyone there said it does not look good.
Oh please Lord help them come to an agreement so school will start on Tuesday.

Livin' The Life

2011-08-30T15:27:00.000-07:00

I find it funny that every time someone asks my husband what he has been up to, he responds with, "Livin' the life."
What does that even mean?

Welcome Home

2011-08-28T19:12:00.000-07:00

My children were delighted to see our neighbor and friend return after a month vacation in Austria.

Accomplishment

2011-08-25T19:38:00.001-07:00

Wow! Check out Reece mastering her bike. It only took her a couple of tries once she had confidence and faith in herself. She is so proud of herself! What an accomplishment. If you listen closely you can hear Fredy praising her!

The Week Ahead

2011-08-13T21:56:00.000-07:00

After a busy start to the weekend, we are headed into a busy week.
Friday- 50th surprise party for neighbor
Saturday-Picnic dinner at park for Jen's 37th Birthday
Sunday- Dinner, drinks and Tosh.O with girls
Monday-swim lessons
Tuesday-Terry leaves again for Korea
Wednesday thru Friday- swim lessons, play dates and The Fair
(depending on the weather)

Fun at the lake with our neighbors.

Tip of the day: wind surfing is always better done when there is actually wind.

It Has Arrived

2011-08-03T21:10:00.000-07:00

Summer has made it's grand appearance. My life and those that live with me are always in a better mood when the sun is out. My grass and flowers are just as excited about the sun as I am. They look happy and healthy also.
I saw the weather report and the sun is suppose to stick around for awhile. This week we started swim lessons and boy we lucked out.
Dear Lord, keep it coming. AMEN!
Tip of the day: Sunscreen on all exposed skin is important

Donut Party

2011-07-31T20:48:00.000-07:00

We went to a party at Rocket Donuts. The children got to decorate donuts and then they brought out a donut Birthday cake. Yikes! Way too much sugar for noon.

Tip of the day: watch for bikers when trying to paralle park.

Money for Water

2011-07-26T21:05:00.000-07:00

I was deeply touched this morning when I read an article in the Seattle Times about a little girl who was taken off life support this weekend. She was a victim of that pile up on I90 last week. What an amazing little girl. For her 9th Birthday she wanted to raise $300 so that someone on the other side of the world could have clean water to drink. Unselfish, loving, considerate, passionate and mature are some words that came to mind to describe her. The article stated that her mother had the web page she started for the donations activated again. I just checked it and people have donated $315,896 so far. Now, I am deeply touched to see what society can do in the wake of heartbreak. Why does it take such a tragedy for people to pull together to do whats best for the common good?

Rachel, you are a great example to the rest of the world how humans should be. May you rest in peace.

Tip of the day: unselfishness is learned, be an example.

July 25-29

2011-07-25T16:50:00.000-07:00

Reece and her BFF Andrew
Vacation Bible School started Monday and goes until Friday.
Winnie-the-Pooh Monday afternoon (short)
Tuesday afternoon Reece will spend with her BFF at his dad's house for the 1st time.
She is having a going away party/sleepover with her BFF on Thursday while I am at Meat Lovers.
Friday is a kid's craft fair at the Bellingham Library and Reece's BFF leaves for a month to Europe.

More Montana Fun

2011-07-22T13:15:00.000-07:00

There is an abundance of wildlife in Montana. I was happy to see some after many hours of searching.
Here is a 7 point elk rubbing his antlers on a tree

After coming to the edge of a short ridge hike, this 400lb. black bear was at the bottom on the ridge. This is as close as I wanted to come to a bear!

This deer was right next to the road.

Bison taking a nice drink.

Golf

2011-07-20T21:34:00.000-07:00

Reece took another year of golf lessons. She is really getting her swing down. We are happy that her lessons don't just focus on strokes and the rules but also on how to dress and act.

Montana Highlights

2011-07-19T15:12:00.000-07:00

Driving, driving and more driving, but we finally made it to Montana.
Here are a few photos from the trip.

Fireworks, Food, Fun....Oh my!

2011-07-05T16:38:00.001-07:00

The kids always have a great time with their cousins.
We BarBq at grandparents, did our fireworks and watched almost the whole county do theirs. Great day, good evening but a late, late night.

Outback Farm

2011-07-03T22:10:00.000-07:00

A good day spent at a farm with Nana, knee deep in Kangaroo poop.

A Great Start

2011-06-29T14:33:00.000-07:00

While Nana and the children built Legos, I got some work done on my online class. Now, if I can have sometime each day that she is visiting I might be able to finish this class. And just in time for three other classes I signed up for.

Tip of the day: Have rainy day activities planned for summer vacation.

Extra Special Weekend

2011-06-19T20:02:00.000-07:00

Mrs. Bryngelson and Reece

Reece had a wonderful week. It started off with finishing Kindergarten. Then she was invited to a Birthday party at Park Bowl. This is only the 2nd party she has been invited to this school year. Then on Saturday night she had her dance performance at the Mt. Baker theater. What a week!

Tip of the day: Keep positive even in the most hellish situations

Last Day

2011-06-15T12:08:00.001-07:00

A few inches taller, a couple pounds heavier, hair a little longer and a whole bunch smarter.
Reece is leaving Kindergarten today!!!!!!!!!

Hard to believe.

A New Week

2011-06-14T18:56:00.000-07:00

Husband left for Korea today. I subbed in Kindergarten and Grandpa took care of both children all day. He took them to dance and tball. When I picked them up at 4 they were eating ice cream cones and Grandpa was ready for a nap.

Oh what a day!

Tip of the day: always, always wear sunscreen on your lips.

Kid Activities

2011-06-10T11:38:00.000-07:00

T-ball and Gymnastics.

Upcoming events:
Tball game 6/11
Golf Lessons 6/11
Terry off to Korea 6/14
Last day of school 6/15
Reece's Dance performance 6/18

Garage

2011-06-06T20:42:00.000-07:00

Cleared, cleaned and organized garage today. The next couple of days will be putting up shelves and organizing kids outside toys. A quick trip tomorrow to the Goodwill and sub 1/2 day then a big date with my husband!
A very productive day!

Home

2011-06-02T14:33:00.000-07:00

Husband/Daddy home! Enough said!

2011-05-27T18:11:00.000-07:00

The memorial for our dear friend, Denny Cummings, was wonderful. The kids and I rode with my parents to Ellensburg. We checked into our hotel and headed over to a restaurant next door. To our surprise Denny's wife and two grown boys came in for dinner. I was very thankful to see them and have our hugs and tears together before the memorial. I felt much better when we headed back to the hotel for a swim.

I still am amazed at how many of Denny's boys long time friends showed up and to boot helped out in any way that they could, picking up, handing out programs, greeting people, getting people drinks, transporting flowers, etc. Growing up in a small town until college has great rewards. I know that I should not be surprised at what they were doing for the boys and Linda because my friends would do the same thing. I am really feeling better about the whole situation and I am extremely grateful for my friends, even if I do not express it.

Tip of the day: Make new friends but keep the old, some are silver are the others gold.

This Week

2011-05-23T11:10:00.001-07:00

It is a new week and going to be better than the last.
We are headed to Ellensburg on Wednesday for a couple of days. Going to see a lot of people that I meet during my college years. Looking forward to it and to some closer to the events of the last week. I am really looking forward to the nice weather over there. This time of the year it is usually warm.

Prayers go out to those in Missouri. What a mess!

Tip of the day: Keep your chin up and fake happiness if need be. It will make your day better.

Memories

2011-05-18T19:25:00.000-07:00

It is amazing how memories,especially ones brought on by photographs can heal a wounded heart. I found some great pictures of my father with some of his best friends at my wedding. There is one photo of my dad, Larry, Denny and Bill sitting out on the deck at the country club and all three of them are rolling over with laughter about something, probably my dad making a funny about Bill. It is times like that that I want to remember Denny, not the sick, frail man he was the last 3 months before he pasted away. I have great memories of our families spending many days together in Ellensburg, Bellingham, Whistler and Arizona. All of them fun, exciting and full of adventures. I am so thankful for the memories and hope that I leave this earth with having made good memories for my friends and family.

Denny and Steve
Tip of the day: Take photos and lots of them.

Barely Hanging On

2011-05-15T21:36:00.000-07:00

Survived this last week.
Tball, dance, gymnastics, horrible weather, baby shower, surgery, husband home and a death of a very close friend.
Next week looks better, just hope the weather changes for the better.

Tip of the day: Tell the ones you love, you love them everyday... you never know when it may be their last or for that fact yours.

A Jiffy Night

2011-05-09T20:29:00.000-07:00

Making the evenings without Daddy a little more fun so the tears wouldn't happen when it comes to bedtime.

Today

2011-05-08T18:08:00.001-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to all those mothers out there.
I hope you all had a great day and got to do whatever you wanted!
I will make an appointment and get a babysitter on my husbands dime sometime next week.

Vacation or No Vacation?

2011-05-05T19:50:00.000-07:00

I want and need a vacation to a sunny destination during the winter months here in Washington. The gloomy weather and no Vitamin D makes me ill, lazy and crabby. I am in need of rejuvenation. I want a sunny, warm place without kids to lay on a beach and do nothing (but not southern California)!
My husband does not particularly enjoy the heat and beach and really has no desire to go to a tropical place. Separate vacations might just be an option.
I have looked into Kona, Bali, Seychilles and Thialand.
Where would you go if you had a chance for a vacation without children?

Tulips

2011-04-28T20:42:00.001-07:00

Spent today at the tulip fields with Judi and Andrew.

Home Agian, Off Again

2011-04-27T14:02:00.000-07:00

We spent Holy Week in Bakersfield with Terry's family. We all had a wonderful time! The children enjoyed the sunshine, play structure, trampoline, animals, cousins and Nana. Hard for Reece to come home. She had a few tears when Nana left us at the airport. The kids decorated eggs and had a great egg hunt in the yard. We took a few trips out. We went to C.A.L.M. which is like a zoo. Fredy had his picture taken for the local school district which is posted on the web site www.kern.org. Terry's distant family owns a piece on land on a private ranch and we went up there one day for a picnic. I saw a rattlesnake, dead of course, but my first one in the wild. I saw a few other snakes too, but all dead on the road. It is great to be back, but Terry left this morning for Korea. We are back to normal schedule. Now if I can just figure out what caused Fredy's skin rash, was it the water, animals, sunscreen, something he ate or something that he touched? Reece and Fredy's Easter egg hunt outside in the warm sunshine!

Tiger, Panda or Fish?

2011-04-06T09:51:00.000-07:00

I must confess, I do watch the Today show on the mornings that I am not too busy trying to get out the door and to school on time. The show has had some great stories and some not so great. I saw one this morning about 5 great island get-a-ways and was shocked to see Lummi and San Juan Island on the list. They had some false advertising with all the pictures showing clear blue skies. It must have been summer and during the 5 weeks of sunshine that Washington State gets. Anyway, I also have seen two stories about parenting. Both the stories got my fiery side burning while getting me thinking about my own parenting style.

The first story is about a mom who wrote a book about her parenting, which she refers to herself as, "Tiger Mom." For her girls there is no television, play dates or sleepovers. They must practice their musical instruments for 3 hours a day along with strict homework rules. Only A's on the reports are allowed. I noticed that the Tiger Mom dominates the conversations or lack of one. The children have no wiggle room or the chance to negotiate anything. Both Tiger Mom and daughters looked pissed off, there are no smiles, hugs or laughing. I find this style too extreme. The Tiger Mom said she has been successful as a parent because the one daughter is getting acceptance letters from Harvard and Yale. Really, that is how she measures her success? What happens if the daughter goes wild at college when she is out of the claws of her Tiger Mom? Will the Tiger Mom have failed at raising her daughter?

The second story is about a dad who wrote a book about his parenting, which he refers to himself as, "Panda Dad". For his 3 children there is loose structure with expectations and consequences for behavior and help when the expectations are not met. His children look happy, healthy and well rounded. They are smiling, laughing, playing and talking to the interviewer. They actually have conversations with the Panda Dad. He measures his success by how happy and stress free he and his children are, not just by the children's accomplishments.

During my many years of teaching, I had Tiger and Panda parents. Those children whom had the Panda parents are well rounded teenagers and those that had Tigers are having their share of difficulties with fitting into high school (not so much with their grades or behavior).

I also had parents that I call, "Fish Parents". These are the parents that give birth and let the child run the household, make the decisions, barely have rules or consequences and have little parental guidance. At this moment, I can think of one Fish child I had many years ago. He is in high school now and recently was asked to leave the regular structured school and join the Options High School because of his abnormal behavior. I know what behavior they are talking about and it is not one that I would want any child to have. I remember his parents talking about getting him some kittens when he was younger. Next thing I knew, they bought him a dog because he hurt and killed the kittens. I also saw him with his dad at our neighborhood pond sharpening Cattails so they could spear rats in their yard. Now do you get the picture of behavior that got him "kicked out" of high school? This Fish kid is going to be in the Headlines someday and you can quote me on that!

Tiger, Panda or Fish is the question when it comes to what style is best to raise children? I believe that a little style from all 3 is what works best to raise healthy, intelligent, happy, socially appropriate and productive children. Sure we all have our faults when it comes to raising children, but who doesn't and as my mother always says, "That's what makes the world turn."

Helpful tips for raising children:

1. love your children and show it
2. praise their successes and failures
3. set boundaries and rules with consequences if broken
4. be their advocate not their problem solver
5. teach them tools to be successful
6. celebrate their accomplishments and their failures
7. eat dinner together at the table
8. have 2 sided conversations
9. let them make mistakes and learn from them
10. you raise them..not your neighbors, friends or your parents
11. be a good role model
12..... and God forbid have fun with them.

Week In A Nutshell

2011-04-04T11:37:00.001-07:00

Recap of the last week in a few words:

Saturday, March 25th- Bon Jovi Concert=AWESOME
Sunday, March 26th- Birthday party at Bobby Lee's=ROCKIN
Monday, March 27th- Terry returned from Korea=RELIEF
Tuesday, March 28th- Reece's 6th Birthday=PARTY ANIMALS
Thursday, March 30th- Reece had a gymnastics show=PROUD
Friday, April 1st- Subbed half day and Grandparetns returned from Maui=EXCITEMENT
Saturday, April 2nd- Party for Reece=CRAZINESS
Sunday, April 3rd- Starbucks and shopping=Happiness

Mixed in there I had to fill 112 orders of T-shirts and sweatshirts for the school. Only messed up on one order.

Tip of the Day: Don't feed ducks in your yard unless you want them to return every year. This is the 3rd year that a pair of ducks comes for their free food at our house.

To Top It Off

2011-03-24T20:48:00.000-07:00

On my last nerve today with my children. Bon Jovi weekend is almost here and I can't wait!!!
This evening was hectic... Kids hurting each other, being very demanding, sassy mouths, crying for dad and no dad here for the rescue (them not me). Then I got the schedule for Korea up till November of this year. Most months he will be gone for 16 days. I really am not happy about this.

Tip of the day: Be thankful for what you have and for what you don't have.

Another Day

2011-03-23T20:21:00.000-07:00

Today was another fine day in Kindergarten. All went well. I dressed in lighter clothes but I still was way too hot. I think the kids were in good moods today because of the weather, I know I was. What a beautiful day! Fredy got to hang with neighbors and friends while spending most of the time outside. He split his lip open today about 20 minutes before I picked him up. What is with the Caetano children and their lips these days?

I do not have any other days scheduled for subbing as of today. I am looking forward to my parents coming home so I will have a babysitter for Fredy if I do get another.

I am trying to work on my online class amist all of this craziness here. Very interesting class through SPU- Autism and Asperger's Disorder: Information & Effective Intervention Strategies. So far, I like it but need more time to work on the assignments. I have a year to complete but I still need 11 more credits by June 2012 so I need to get this one done by May/June of this year. My plan is to work hard on it while Terry is home and take another course in June.

Back in the Saddle

2011-03-21T19:47:00.000-07:00

Monday, March 21st had an early start here at the Caetano household. Up at 5:30 showered, dressed, coffee, breakfast, made lunches, woke up kids, dressed them, breakfast, made beds and headed out the door at 8:00. Dropped Fredy off at the neighbors and Reece and I headed to school. Signed in at the office and headed to the room. Read through the plans, made sure overhead and music worked. Used the copier and welcomed 23 students into the classroom at 9:20. The day went smoothly and without any problems. I was really surprised at how well behaved the class was. We did a fun art activity with lots of parent helpers. Reece and I headed out at 4:15 to pick up Fredy and go home. Dinner was at El Riconcitos, who wants to cook after a full day at work?
All ready to do it again on Wednesday but with lighter layers of clothes. I forgot how hot I get teaching.

Tip of the day: Smile, Smile and smile some more.

Weekend Recap

2011-03-20T19:45:00.000-07:00

Friday- Dance
Saturday- played outside all day
Sunday- cleaned house, grocery store, played outside, went for a long walk and had a salmon dinner

Check out tomorrow's post to see what I am going to do on Monday..........

Tip of the day: soak up as much Vitamin D as you can these days.

Dancing and Lips

2011-03-18T20:39:00.000-07:00

Reece's school had a dance tonight. After a quick dinner with her best friend Andrew, we headed to the high school for the dance. It took a long time for her to warm up and get over being so overwhelmed, but she finally got out on the dance floor. I had to help her with including Andrew in her circle of school friends. He does not go to her school. After dancing around and singing to Taylor Swift, Reece hit heads with another girl and busted her lip open. There was blood all over her and me. We left soon after and are still trying to stop the bleeding.

I think she still had a good time.

Tip of the day: work with your kids to include everyone.

Did You Know

2011-03-17T15:10:00.000-07:00

Did you know that the official color of St. Patrick's Day was originally blue?
Did you know that St. Patrick used the 3 leaf clover (shamrock) as a teaching tool when teaching about the Trinity?

Now you know or at least consider yourself informed.

Tip of the day: To keep yourself from getting pinched by total strangers, wear green on St. Patrick's Day.

I Have A New Love

2011-03-14T11:33:00.000-07:00

I am and always will be a country music fan and have a deep love for Bon Jovi, but I have grown a new love.
GAME:
How many clues do you need to guess my new love?
1.My new love is a band from San Francisco that formed in 1994.
2.The band is made up of 5 guys.
3.Their ages range between 30 and 50.
4.Their 1st album was released in February 1998 by Columbia Records.
5.It was a self titled album.
6.The lead singer is named Pat Monahan.
7.Their music is playing right now.

Yep, you guessed it...TRAIN.
Sorry Terry you have new competition.

Tip of the day: Down play your obsession with a band around your spouse, because he/she will use it against you.

Parents

2011-03-11T08:35:00.000-08:00

No communication with my parents since the earthquake.
There are reports that Hawaii had an earhtquake about 4am ET with 4.8Mag.
Still waiting to hear from them. They are on Maui staying in Kihei.
Prayers are needed for them and all the people in the Pacific especailly Japan.
Stay tuned and I will keep you updated.

UPDATE:
My dad just called my brother and all is well. They are on the 4th floor of condos. NO damage there. Mom is still asleep and warning sirens just turned off. All is well!

UPDATE: UPDATE
Apparently, the Erickson's are on a real vacation because they did not know about anything until this morning. Not even the earthquake in Japan. I talked to mom and she said they heard sirens going off during the night but thought they were being tested. They did not turn the TV on until this morning. Their condo is on the 4th floor and nobody came to tell them to evacuate. Dad had his phone turned off during the night that is why I could not get ahold of them. Wouldn't you question the sirens?

New Recipe

2011-03-10T09:27:00.001-08:00

THURSDAY RECIPE DAY!
Because it is Lent and we are suppose to be cutting back on our calorie and food intake, I am sharing a simple and low calorie recipe today!

Cucumber-Dill Salad

Serves 4

1 seedless European cucumber, or 2 American cucumbers
3 tablespoons cider or white vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 small red onion, sliced and broken into rings
3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill

Wash the cucumber(s) and partially remove the peel in lengthwise strips using a vegetable peeler or fork and leaving a little skin between each strip. Thinly slice the cucumber widthwise. Place the vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper in a bowl and whisk until the sugar is dissolved. Add the cucumber, onion, and dill, and toss well. The salad can be served at once, but it will improve in flavor if you let the ingredients marinate for 5 minutes.

38 calories per serving: 1 G Protein, 0 G Fat, 10 G Carbohydrate; 5 MG Sodium; 0 MG Cholesterol

Tip of the day: If you have a child that loves cucumbers like mine, use seedless cucumbers for this recipe....you will thank me later.

Happy Mardi Gras!

2011-03-08T08:40:00.000-08:00

FAT TUESDAY IS HERE!
Tonight's dinner menu:
Burbon Steak, Potatoes, Salad, Bread and Butter and Ice Cream.
And whatever else sounds good.
Tomorrow it really starts... diet and Lent.
Thinking about keeping Reece out of class tomorrow morning and taking her to Ash Wednesday Mass. She is not thrilled about it, but I think that she should go and do to school when it is over. It could be her Religion lesson that she is missing in school.

Tip of the day: Keep traditions alive!

Spring Is In The Air!

2011-03-07T15:33:00.001-08:00

What a great day to get out the paint and make master pieces in the sunshine.
It is hard to believe that less than 2 weeks ago, we were out playing in the snow.

2011-03-02T16:34:00.000-08:00

9:00 garbage can and recycle bins on curb
9:05 recycle bins blew over
9:07 recycle blowing down street to Barkley
9:15 recycle, mine and all the neighbors, in my garbage can
9:16 change wine soaked shirt before heading to school
9:20 drop Reece off at school not dressed for PJ day
9:32 returned to school with PJ's and stuffed animal
9:45 returned home to find garbage can on it's side with recycle and garbage blowing everywhere
10:00 changed shirt again because it was covered in cat food

Why does the wind only blow on garbage day?

Tip of the day: lock garbage can lid down on windy days

Thursday Recipe and Snow

2011-02-25T12:14:00.000-08:00

Hamburger Stroganoff

1LB. ground beef
1/2C. butter
salt and pepper to taste
1 clove minced garlic
1 can of cream of chicken soup
2C. hot cooked noodles
1/2C. chopped onion
2Tb. flour
mushrooms cut into small pieces
1C. sour cream

In large skillet cook and stir beef and onion in butter until onion is tender. Stir in flour, salt, pepper, garlic and mushrooms: cook 5 minutes stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Stir in soup, simmer uncovered for 10 minutes. Stir in sour cream, heat through. Serve over noodles.
Makes 4 to 6 serving.

I believe that snow was made for children and dogs to enjoy!

Tip of the day: on cold windy days make sure to lotion up exposed skin.

Hair

2011-02-22T15:36:00.001-08:00

Is there something wrong with this?

FYI: Done by Reece's Beauty Shop

Tip of the day: in this situation, take the clips out yourself!

Spoon Update and Recipe

2011-02-17T10:01:00.000-08:00

I went on online to find replacement spoons for my set! I found some online, but the price for one spoon ranged from $12 to $30. (ONE SPOON!)
A whole new set from Costco might be cheaper. YIKES!

Appetizer

Ritz Crackers
Block of Mozzarella cheese (sliced)
Basil leaves(fresh)
Sliced tomato
olive oil
Italian seasoning

stack tomato and slice of cheese on cracker drip oil over the top, place basil leaf on top and add a little seasoning if desire.

Quick and easy for those last minute parties.

Tip of the day: Never over estimate the power of forgiveness.

Spoons

2011-02-16T14:04:00.000-08:00

"What happened to all of our oval teaspoons?"
"Daddy took them to work and threw them away."
I have 5 spoons left of the 12 we got for our wedding. Tried to order replacements and of course they discontinued that line.
Oh ebay here I come.

2011-02-09T13:15:00.000-08:00

To sum up the weekend: parties and ball games!
2 basketball games
1 football game
1 cupcake birthday party
1 farm birthday party

Thursday Recipe and Update

2011-02-03T10:46:00.000-08:00

Recipe today is a warm meaty casserole
Shipwreck casserole
Preheat oven at 350
1 onion cut up
3 raw potatoes peeled and cut into small cubes
1 lb. raw hamburger
salt and pepper to taste
1 1/2 Tbs. Worcestershire sauce
1 can kidney beans
1/4 c. raw rice
1 can tomato soup
1 c. hot water
1 Beef Bouillon cube
Mix ingredients together in casserole dish
Bake for 1 1/2 hours

The Caetano children are busy this week with school, basketball, gymnastics and dance. Terry returned home on Monday from Korea. It is always a struggle to keep routines when he returns. He will leave again on the 13th until March 2nd. My parents leave for Hawaii on the 1st of March for the whole month, Yikes! I might be calling some of you to babysit! Bathrooms are all finished. I bought wall decals for the bathroom, owls, mushrooms, birds, squirrel and hedgehog. Cute but really for the kids.

Tip of the day: This time of year it is a must to play outside when the sun is out because it disappears quickly and for long periods of time.

Turkey Burgers?

2011-01-27T19:54:00.000-08:00

I know, you are saying, "What?"
Turkey is not red meat and if you want a burger, you want beef. I am telling you that ground turkey is great.
I made turkey burgers and my husband a huge red meat eater, loved them.
You really do not need a bun and you do not need to add any spiced to the meat. I just grill the burgers on the George Foreman and add cheese.
Enjoy.

Tip of the day: do not have the bathrooms tiled the same week you decide to potty train your son.

Chicken Dish

2011-01-21T11:41:00.000-08:00

Forgot Thursday Recipe Day.

9X13" dish
4 chicken breasts- cut into cubes
Grated Swiss cheese
Can of cream of chicken soup
A box of Stove Top Stuffing

Cook stuffing according to directions.
Mix cubed chicken with cream of chicken soup.
Top with grated Swiss cheese.
Spread stuffing over top of cheese.
Bake at 375 for 45 minutes to 1 hour, check to make sure chicken is fully cooked.

Tip of the day: own at least one raincoat and an umbrella if you live in the NW.

Birthday Boy

2011-01-17T13:51:00.001-08:00

Fredy is 3 years old!
Hard to believe that it has been 3 years already. (Looking forward to the next year and out of the horrible 3's)
Not much has changed from his birth. He was difficult during the delivery and he is still difficult. He did not eat much as a baby and still does not eat much. He did and still is a horrible sleeper.

I really hope that the teenage years will be better for him and me too.

Tip of the day; remember that boys and girls are different from the moment of conception.

Recipe

2011-01-13T13:47:00.000-08:00

Thursdays are now recipe day.

Layered Mexican Casserole
8 oz. ground beef
1 (12oz.) can whole kernel corn, drained
1 (12oz.) jar chunky salsa
1 21/4 oz.) can sliced pitted ripe olives, drained
1 C. cream-style cottage cheese
8 oz. sour cream
5 C. tortilla chips
2 C. shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1/2 C. chopped tomato

Brown ground beef in large skillet; drain, Add corn and salsa; cook until thoroughly heated. Reserve 2 tablespoons olives stir remaining olives into beef mixture. Combine cottage cheese and sour cream in bowl.

In 2-quart casserole, layer 2 cups chips, half of meat mixture, 3/4 cup cheddar cheese and half of cottage cheese mixture. Repeat layers; cover. Bake in 350 oven, 35 minutes. Line edges of casserole with remaining 1 cup ships; top with tomato, reserve 2 Tablespoons olives and remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese. Bake 10 minutes or until cheese is melted and chips are hot. Makes 4 to 6 servings.

I like to add cilantro to the dish when done cooking.

Tip of the day: When it is a snow day off school, have at least one activity planned.