You Know What I'm Talking About

Some of us are more organized than others. It's just a fact of life. I used to be really organized. REALLY organized--you know, to the point of being slightly annoying. (You can ask my college roommates.) Somewhere along the way, I joined the other camp. I think I sort of creeped over, moving my sleeping bag closer to the line until one morning I woke up in the disorganized camp. There are days I don't mind being in this camp. The company is nice, a bit more relaxed. Today I wanted to be in the other camp. You see, I'm trying to find a password to something so that I can set up something else.

Where am I going with this? We're coming up on a new year. I'm not going to make a long list of resolutions. Instead, I'm going to try to inch my way back to the "organized camp." I wouldn't say I'll end up in the other camp by the end of next year, but I just want to get close enough so that I can hear the campers on the other side. Are they having some kind of really organized party over there?

Another Year

Now that I'm *gasp* almost ready for Christmas, I have all this time to be nostalgic about another year almost gone. I think the kids might actually be growing up. Sigh.

My lovely, sweet, creative friend (who now lives in a toastier climate) took these pictures of the kids when she came for a visit. I think they really capture the kids' personalities.

Kid #1: The "first born." As a typical "first born," she carries the weight of the world. She is learning to do it with grace and ease. She has her dad's keen mind, and I don't doubt she will achieve great things. She is trying to find her own style, and I am realizing that I have to let her do this. (I need an entire post dedicated to this subject.)

Kid #2: The "middle child." He is adaptable and has a tender heart, but makes his presence known. His imagination is a gift. He loves to make giant messes, but never has the "strength" to clean them up. (His words, not mine.)

Kid #3: The "little boy." He still loves lots of snuggles (thank goodness), but wants to play with the big kids too. He makes us laugh A LOT--three year olds are famous for that. He swears he will never leave me.

Kid #4: The "baby." We've probably already ruined her. She only needs to whimper and her wish is granted. Everyone bows to her command. She is beginning to assert herself, but we're still curious about her personality. She mostly toddles around wondering what everyone else is doing.

I wonder what they'll be like next year?

The Scale Has Been Tipped

It's official! Four of us have glasses.

Two of our lovely offspring have been "blessed" with some genetic mutation that appears to be on both sides of the family. (I usually just blame Mike for all defective genes, but I'll take some credit this time.) They are "lucky" enough to get to wear glasses. Sadly, the one child who doesn't need them walks around wearing his 3-D glasses with the lenses popped out.

Little Luke got glasses several weeks ago. I was very worried that he would not leave them on, but he can ACTUALLY SEE so he has been just fine. I think they have made him more popular with the ladies. As we have been out-and-about during the holiday season, many people have commented that he looks a lot like Ralphie. I might just have to buy him a Red Ryder BB Gun.