pooled reflections

Last Christmas Pictures

2012-02-14T21:34:00.003-05:00

The Richardson Family 2012

12 grand kids

Lee's sister Deb and her familyDeb, Bryan, Jared, Marcus, Abby and Jake

Lee's youngest sister Lizzie and her familyJosh, Oliver, Clark and Lizzie

Lee's sister Jayne and her familyEvan, Simon, Dyan, Jayne and Amelia

Part III Christmas Eve and Day

2012-01-22T20:33:00.002-05:00

Part II

2012-01-12T18:18:00.003-05:00

Christmas in the Valley of the Sun Part 1

2012-01-10T20:53:00.004-05:00

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Family Pictures

2011-12-31T20:31:00.002-05:00

Our friend Raven is an amazing photographer. She lives in Louisville, Kentucky where her husband is completing his residency. We knew them during medical school and we visit them often since we live so close. I have a link to her photography blog at the top of mine. The pictures are beautiful.

Ortho Christmas Party

2011-12-31T16:54:00.002-05:00

I felt pretty fancy with my sparkly JLo shirt from Kohls. We got lost on the way to the party but the dinner was good and free. Plus, the kids were in bed a sleep when we got home which was definitely good enough for me!

The Harrison

2011-12-31T16:42:00.002-05:00

Kassie's dance teacher is the Physical Education Specialist at an assisted living place here in Indy. Every Christmas, the dance classes preform for the tenants there. The same Santa with a beard that falls off when he talks, always makes an appearance. If you are wondering why there are only two kids with their pictures with Santa, it's because a certain 4 year old boy STILL is afraid of the big man in the red suit!

Thanksgiving in Ohio

2011-12-31T16:06:00.002-05:00

Every year for Thanksgiving, we travel to Canton, Ohio to visit my Stampin' Up Aunt and Uncle. It's become a tradition and I think we've only missed two years out of seven. The kids get excited to play with my cousin's son, Jayden. I get excited to STAMP and Lee gets excited to be able to relax and hang out with my uncle. We didn't do any Black Friday shopping this year. My aunt had surgery on her foot a few days before we arrived. I made a bunch of Christmas cards to give to teachers. The weather was so mild and we were able to play outside. We had a nice time.

Pre-holiday craziness

2011-12-31T15:50:00.002-05:00

First dusting of the season back in November. The kids LOVE it when it snows.

Kassie lost her front tooth with a little help from dad.

Samantha and her one sock. She goes around and around the island in the kitchen while I try to cook and do dishes.

4th year

2011-11-11T13:16:00.003-05:00

Lee is a 4th year resident as of July. Forth year so far has been good to us, really good! This year is a good year because we can see the light at the end of the tunnel! It may be a small flicker of a light but that's ok. I say the end is so close but so far because we still have this year and then two more. Lee is getting ready to apply for Fellowships and will start interviewing in a few months. It's kind of exciting. We'll know sometime in May where he'll go for 2013-2014, a year in advance. His schedule hasn't been bad. He has home call this year and it seems like he has less overnight calls.
Looking back at last year is a different story. Last year was rough! I am not much of a complainer but I am so glad it's over. I was definitely in survival mode most of the time and probably not the nicest mom. I think the kids have already forgotten what last year was like so I'm not too worried about it. Trust me, I'm a much happier mom this year!
Friends have made residency so much more manageable. I have amazing friends. I seriously get so sad thinking about leaving next summer. I am worried about selling my house but what troubles me the most is saying goodbye to a lot of really cool people that are like family to me!

Kassie lost a tooth!

2011-11-01T21:59:00.003-04:00

Finally!!!!! I am very serious when I say Kassie has been waiting "FOREVER" to lose a tooth! She wasn't as excited as I thought she's be. There wasn't any jumping around and celebrating. She was calm and thought it was cool. The tooth fairy came and left her a special dollar coin.

Halloween 2011

2011-10-31T22:04:00.004-04:00

Kassie's 7th Birthday

2011-10-31T21:27:00.004-04:00

Kass turned 7 on October 10th. She requested an ice cream cake. This year was a family year, so we celebrated with just us. We usually let the kids pick a restaurant for their birthday dinner. I was surprised when Kassie picked the Hibachi Grill instead of McDonald's. That was definitely ok with Lee and I despite the large price difference.
The big hits this year were a Pikachu pillow pet which Samantha tried to steal multiple times and a Harry Potter Lego set. She still really likes Harry Potter and LOVES Pokemon!
Kass is skinny! Her legs swim in her skinny jeans. She eats like crazy though and by the time she gets into her bed at night, she says she's hungry again. (we're working on that) Kassie has an incredible memory and definitely has a gift for words. I honestly dread thinking about her as a teenager talking back to me. She'll probably "win" every time. She loves to read! In fact, every night she tries to stay up late and read in the dark. She's really outgoing and wears her emotions on her sleeve though. Unfortunately, she still has eczema and is allergic to peanuts, walnuts, and pecans. She really wishes that she will grow out of her allergies but I don't think she will.
Lately when I see Kass, she looks so grown up and tall. I miss the days when it was just me and her. She would try to boss me around as an 18 month old and say, "Mommy, no do dishes, or Mommy, no cooking!" She's changed so much over the years and sometimes I wish she could have stayed 6 for a bit longer.

Indiana State War Museum

2011-10-30T21:56:00.006-04:00

Downtown Indy is cool. There are historical buildings and monuments. I should also mention downtown is pretty clean. There was one random weekday the kids didn't have school, so Erika, Anna and I took the kids to the free Indiana War Museum. The museum was down in the basement of this incredibly tall and skinny building. Unfortunately there wasn't an elevator so we had to use some serious muscle to carry two double strollers and one single stroller up and down a ton of stairs. We were the only ones there, which is a good thing when you have two sets of one year old twins, another one year old, a 7 year old, a 4 year old and a 5 year old. Most of the time the kids ran from thing to thing. I'm not sure if they learned anything. At one point Anna tried to read one of the plaques to the older ones. She probably read two lines before the kids were already running to the next thing. Afterwards, we went across the street to the monument. The weather was nice! The little ones tried to fall into the water while the older ones ran around in circles playing chase.

Little Orphan Kassie

2011-10-30T21:30:00.004-04:00

Kassie sang and danced in our ward's talent show to "It's a Hard Knock Life" with eight other adorable orphan girls. All of them did a fabulous job! I must be a little biased and say Kassie stole the show!

Tommy's First Day

2011-10-30T20:48:00.003-04:00

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I'll be honest! I was really nervous for Tommy to start school. He struggled last year with saying goodbye to me in the mornings. On the two mornings he had school, there was a battle! He wouldn't brush his teeth, get dressed, or eat breakfast without saying NO a thousand times!! I am not kidding when I say I had to do some major bribing! Once he was there, he did enjoy himself and have fun! I felt really discouraged most the year, thinking Tommy would always struggle with going to school! This year however, Tommy is doing so AWESOME! He seriously loves his teacher and runs to class every morning! His teacher is perfect for him! Over the summer I had a calming feeling Tommy would be assigned to right teacher! I am so proud of him! He is really having a great year and making so much progress with being agreeable and saying ok! Let's just say his stubbornness has gone down a notch or two!

Baby Shower

2011-10-30T20:21:00.007-04:00

A few months ago, a couple friends and I hosted a "Sprinkle" at my home for three gals in our ward, Lindsay, Alisha and Mindy.

Here are the Ortho gals. Anya, Lindsay, Lauren and Steph. They all came to celebrate Lindsay's third boy.

Mindy in the green, just had her fourth baby and you can't even tell!

Alisha just had her fourth too! She even looks like she's getting sleep!

15 months

2011-10-28T21:51:00.002-04:00

Kassie's in First Grade

2011-09-28T22:08:00.004-04:00

Summer Days with the Unos

2011-09-28T22:01:00.005-04:00

Indiana State Fair

2011-09-28T21:09:00.003-04:00

Samantha 14 months

2011-09-25T22:52:00.007-04:00

We still call her Baby. We can't help it. It's her nickname. The name Baby just fits her, so cute and little and sweet. I think I started it and think we need to stop. Pretty soon Samantha will tell us that she's not a baby any more and I'll have to shed a tear.

Fourteen months was back in July during the heat wave. I love all of these pictures and I couldn't decide which ones to pick, so I chose them all. They represent summer to me, sprinkler on, hat, eating tomatoes fresh from the garden, getting wet and enjoying the sun! Ahhhh!

Summer is my favorite season.

My Parent's Visit

2011-09-20T21:50:00.004-04:00

It's a tradition in our family to make signs for visitors.

The kids LOVED my mom's IPad and wanted to play Angry Birds 24/7.

My mom bought Kassie and Samantha matching pink skirts that were so adorable. I love it when they match!

We went to the Children's Museum to check out the new Treasures of the Earth exhibit. This one of Samantha cracks me up. Look close and you can see she's licking the germ infested pole!

It wouldn't be a complete trip without us staying up late and making cards!

My dad is famous for his claws! You can say claws are a tradition too!

Apple Pie for a very merry "unbirthday"!

Lots of trips to the neighborhood pool. Kassie did awesome in the pool! And Samantha ate/sucked on random toys that weren't ours.

A quick trip to Target so the kids could pick out a special toy.

And last but not least a picture before church. Tommy wasn't a fan of his outfit and in fact had quite the fit that morning. Good memories to send my parents back to Arizona with.

U2 360 Tour

2011-08-31T22:46:00.009-04:00

Hello Hello Hola Hola!
Wow!! Yeah baby! I saw U2 in concert at Solider Field in Chicago ! I still can't believe I went! It took some finagling to get child care for the kids but it was completely worth it! To top it off, I went with some really cool gals that made it even better. I had to pull out some of my old dance moves from college and my loud singing voice (not the yelling at my kids loud voice). I think I lost my voice at "One" and "With or Without You". Good times!

The Fourth of July

2011-08-29T22:00:00.008-04:00

Ahhhh........ 4th of July! The kids always love it, catching fireflies, staying up super duper late (11:30 p.m.), playing with sparklers, watching the annual Enz's firework show. What more could a kid want!! The parents on the other hand, no so much. For me, it's the firework hangover the kids have the next day. They are always so exhausted but hey, it's only once a year. Right!

Miss Samantha the mulch eater!

2011-06-30T22:56:00.003-04:00

Highlights and Lowlights of Summer so far

2011-06-29T22:29:00.004-04:00

Highlight: The weather has been fantastic! Surprisingly, it hasn't been too hot!

Lowlight: Due to the nice weather, the pool has been FREEZING, so we haven't done much swimming.

H: The new YMCA just opened up and we were able to join because Lee got a discount.

L: The kids want to stay and dislike leaving the Y and always put up a fuss when it's time to go!

H: Kassie and Tommy have been taking swim lessons.

L: Tears, tears and more tears from both kids because they hate swim lessons. They are both afraid drowning.

H: Kassie and Tommy love playing outside in the back with the sprinkler.

L: Fruit flies in the house from kids coming in and out constantly.

H: My parents are coming to visit in a week!!!!

L: My house is a mess and I need to clean it!

H: It's summer which means no school stuff.

L: It's summer and I think I'm ready for the kids to go back to school.....like now!

H: Samantha has been walking all over the place.

L: She gets into the trash because it's now a perfect height for her to reach in and get some goodies.

H: Lee is going to be a 4th year!

L: He starts with Pediatrics and goes back to working weekends.

H: I'm growing my hair out and can finally fit it in a ponytail.

L: It's taking forever and it's hot on my neck.

L: The air conditioner was leaking water.

H: Lee was able to fix it!

The Richardsons go camping

2011-06-14T21:52:00.006-04:00

We started off the summer break with a camping trip to Raccoon Lake with some friends. Now don't think we went crazy and camped for three or more days. We're amateurs! We have to ease into this whole sleeping in a tent thing. It was a lot of fun! When Lee got home from work on Friday, we headed to the campground. The van was packed to the rim! Who would have guessed it takes an entire van to fit camping stuff for one night and a day and a half for a family of five!! Kassie and Tommy were super excited and didn't mind resting their feet on sleeping bags and pillows. When we got there, the kids ran around, got super sweaty, ate bugs and threw sticks in the fire. We did the traditional camping dinner of hot dogs and s'mores! I must remind you, it starts to get dark around 9:30 here in Indiana so we were all in for a long night. The kids (minus Samantha) settled down in the tent around 10 p.m. It wasn't until after 11 that they finally fell asleep. Samantha was a different story. Lee had to drive her around in the car to get her to fall asleep. Once she was asleep we stayed up with the adults and talked around the fire. It was 12:30 ish before we headed to the tent to find two small slivers of a space for us to crash. The rest was history...Tommy snored in Lee's face. Kassie sat up and talked nonsense. Samantha woke up a few times. I made a bottle in the dark with my left hand while holding Sam. And last but not least, raccoons snarled and growled all night! (I bet you didn't know raccoons could make such wonderful noises! The campground is called Raccoon Lake for a reason folks!)

Roasting marshmallows for breakfast!

The perfect morning after picture. Dirty clothes, dark circles under eyes, messy hair, war wound on forehead from falling out of the tent!

Samantha Jean is 1

2011-06-08T22:16:00.004-04:00

Kassie and Tommy were counting down the days to Samantha's birthday. Kassie decorated with balloons and streamers and Tommy helped with presents. Samantha is the cutest little girl! She has a sweet personality. This year has flown by and I secretly wish she will stay one for just a bit longer!

A one year old birthday wouldn't be complete without present eating!

First cupcake ever! She wasn't too sure about the pink stuff on the top, so poking and exploring calmed her fears.

She's probably saying, "Wow! That's good!"

#32

2011-06-08T22:00:00.002-04:00

I had a birthday! Let's be honest! It's not fun to be "getting older". I know, I know 32 isn't that old. Kassie has let me know on multiple occasions with a big smile that, "I'm no longer a spring chicken"! That's ok right!

Celebration of Success

2011-06-08T21:31:00.004-04:00

Kassie's school had a "Celebration of Success" night. It was a perfect idea to showcase all the hard work the students did throughout the year. Kassie was excited for us to see her Journal and "Hungry Caterpillar" book.
We were very pleased with her teacher this year. She had all the qualities an amazing teacher should have.

I am a Mother

2011-05-22T21:22:00.006-04:00

This past year has been hard! My abilities as a stay at home mom were definitely challenged! Having baby #3 threw us all for a loop! Lee's schedule as a third year was tough! Looking back over this past year, I was so grumpy and tired ALL of the time. I was in survival mode, just trying to get by. Chicken nuggets and wrinkled laundry were famous in our house!

Despite all of the crying, whining and screaming that occurred and still occurs, I love my kids and I am glad I'm their mother.

I'm looking forward to starting a "new year". A year without a newborn and 4th year of residency.

2011-05-16T07:03:00.003-04:00

2011-05-16T06:54:00.004-04:00

Not Private

2011-05-15T21:22:00.002-04:00

Dear Friends and Family,

Our blog is no longer private! Just thought we'd let you know.

The Richardsons

Samantha is 11 months

2011-05-14T22:32:00.005-04:00

Cuteness will be one in a few weeks and is doing well! She's so happy and fun to be around! Here's a few pictures of her latest happenings!

Making messes ALL of the time.

Standing up by herself.

(Check out the stained shirt. A certain someone likes to pull her bib off while eating.)

Reading baby books!

Chewing on things. It's her favorite pastime!

Being "held" by brother and sister with a smile! What a good sport!

She has learned a few more signs like elephant and bird. My favorite is when she roars like a tiger!

Easter 2011

2011-05-11T21:23:00.001-04:00

Matching Easter dresses this year for the girls!

And an Easter Egg hunt for us all!

10 months (last month)

2011-05-02T21:33:00.004-04:00

I can't believe my baby will be one next month! This year has flown by and sometimes I wish little Sam could stay 10 months forever. I love this age!

She's a mover and a shaker! Always on the go, go, go and making messes! I think she gained a pound so, she's up to a whopping 18 big ones. Those skinny chicken legs are getting strong though, cruising around and getting ready to walk.

Samantha isn't a big eater but she loves her bottle! I can't get her to sit in her booster for very long and she doesn't like sippy cups. She does love strawberries, grapes, and blueberries. I have noticed her tummy is sensitive to certain foods and she is still spitting up. I haven't been very adventurous with trying new foods with her. Plus, she doesn't have any teeth yet.

She is starting to communicate and it's really, really cute. She knows a few signs like light, all done, and more but she's not super consistent with them. It's just cute to see her move her tiny hands.

I love this kid!

Spring Break at 40 Degrees

2011-04-17T21:18:00.006-04:00

Spring Break's weather this year wasn't exactly ideal. You shouldn't have to combine the words spring break and 40 degrees in the same sentence but what can you do! Despite the bad weather, we made do and did some fun things around the house. (and we may have went a little crazy in the mix of things) Samantha played with her ball and looked cute with her big baby blues.
The kids made messes and didn't want to clean up.
We even ventured outside with our winter coats zipped.

Here's the evidence that it really did snow! Kassie can't miss going out when it snows! I think she needs to live in Alaska!
The kids went a little goo goo gaga from being cooped up inside! (You should have seen my face! It looked a lot worse then those two!)
And there were smiles too! It must have been after I gave them marshmallows!

A few extras

2011-03-27T21:46:00.003-04:00

Rockin' Rollers

2011-03-27T21:28:00.008-04:00

Tommy thought his Lightning McQueen skates were super cool only because they kept him from falling every second he tried to move. Tommy only smiled in this picture on command because he knew his mouth was full of cheese crackers. Oh, and my shirt, I've had it since college. Nice!
I had to put this one in! Kassie wasn't happy about leaving. I mean she IS an expert roller skater now, so she says!

St. Patty's Day

2011-03-27T21:07:00.004-04:00

Kassie was obsessed with leprechauns this year. It was definitely out of the blue and very surprising. She usually doesn't believe in things like leprechauns. She had a school assignment to make her own trap which you see in the picture. She did everything on her own an even made special gold pieces to put inside. Every night she would set her trap hoping she would find a little green man inside in the morning. Don't worry, Kassie wasn't disappointed when her dream of keeping a leprechaun for a pet wasn't met. She just shrugged her shoulders and said, "Maybe next year!".

Lee had a birthday shout hooray!

2011-03-27T20:54:00.003-04:00

Lee turned 32 on March 3rd!! It was a quiet celebration. We had Chipotle for dinner and opened presents.

Sam at 9 months

2011-03-14T23:26:00.002-04:00

It isn't easy to photograph a nine month old on the go and plus I'm not the best photographer. Here's what Samantha's been up to.

She's been looking really cute with those big baby blues!

She likes to eat everything.

She likes to pose on her left hip to check things out. She probably tried to eat the yellow sock in the background.

Paper is her new favorite thing.

She even likes to pound on the piano once in awhile.

And unfortunately she likes to try and climb up the stairs.

Tommy is 4!

2011-03-14T21:36:00.004-04:00

Tommy turned four on February 23. It has been a challenging year for this kiddo. Three was not an easy age so I'm hoping four will be better. Tommy is a really good kid and has the best laugh. He's a kid who is determined and focused and I appreciate those qualities.

Cake disclaimer... The cake may look like a big brown blob but trust me when I say, it was soooo good!

We celebrated Tommy's birthday with six other energetic boys at Jump N Play. It was a blast!

Tommy isn't a typical 4 year old when he eats cupcakes. He is extremely careful when he takes the wrapper off, making sure he doesn't get his fingers in the icing.

Tommy lucked out in the present department. What more could a four year old ask for than monster trucks, dragons, books, and a Spiderman skateboard!(The last really good pictures were taken by my friend Bethany!)

Little Pooper is 8 months

2011-02-27T22:24:00.004-05:00

Samantha turned eight months old (last month). She's been on the go and picking up every little thing on the ground. I think she may have dined on a piece of paper and an unknown object the other day. Kassie and Tommy are on what we call "Choking Alert"! It's quite the challenge to have a crawler and a house, something I'm not used to!

100th Day of School

2011-02-27T21:31:00.002-05:00

Kass-a-lass! She's such a good girl. She chose to do 100 Pokemon Balls for her 100th Day of School fashion show.

Tommy's a Sunbeam

2011-02-27T21:19:00.003-05:00

That's right! The T-man is a Sunbeam. I was a little worried Tommy would have a hard time since I'm in the Primary Presidency. So far so good. He does the occasional, "Mommy, can I sit on your lap?" but for the most part he's doing well. Pretty soon I'll have all of my kids in Primary when Samantha is in nursery. That would be next November, not that I'm counting the months or anything.

Snow and ice

2011-02-27T21:00:00.001-05:00

Lee and the kids braved the slippery driveway to try and shovel/break up some of the ice. Tommy only fell on his face once and Lee only got attacked by snowballs mixed with ice.

Ice Storm 2011

2011-02-06T20:54:00.002-05:00

It has been a week to remember! It all began Monday, Jan. 28th with freezing rain. The rain continued into the next day leaving 2 inches of ice on the ground. School was cancelled Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. The kids and I did not venture out in the mess. Ice is horrible. I'd pick 12 inches of snow over 2 inches of ice. Snow you can shovel, ice you need a sledge hammer. While being cooped up in the house, the kids were really sick. All three of them had ear infections, a cough and the stomach bug. We spent a lot time on the couch watching movies and doing nothing. Tommy poor guy, has had it the worst and he still isn't feeling well. Lee's the only one that has escaped the wrath of these illnesses! My wish is for spring to come early this year. It's not too much to ask for right!? I think I've had it up to here with being cooped up and cleaning up throw up, snot, and other nasty stuff!I'm looking forward to a new week and the ice melting!

More of Cuteness

2011-02-06T20:39:00.002-05:00

This picture is a little dark. I really need to edit my pictures on Photo Shop but the program is on the computer downstairs which is inconvenient. I have been trying to take better pictures with my camera. It's a process that's for sure. Most of the time the moment has passed because I'm busy trying to figure out my settings.

Despite the big black ugly grill cover in the background, I love these pictures of Samantha's profile.

Baby Samantha at 7 months (back in Dec.)

2011-01-28T21:18:00.002-05:00

I must admit this little one has been the apple of my eye lately! Those cheeks are just kissable and her cute mannerisms make me want to have 10 more like her. (not really 10 but you get it) I love the way she moves her hands. She likes to look at them and talk to them. She's sleeping a little better which makes me happy! Her nick name is Baby!! I really have been trying to call her Samantha because I wouldn't want her to turn one and think her name is......BABY!

Downtown at the Circle

2011-01-28T20:31:00.005-05:00

I believe this is the capital building. There are so many cool things downtown. I feel like we need to explore a little more and learn more about the history.

You can kind see the lights that stretch all the way to the top of the monument. At Christmas time there are huge nutcrackers and other decorations all around the circle.

It was really cold the day we went! Are you surprised? You tell by the look on Tommy's face and how his hands are scrunched up inside his jacket!

I wish I could write more about what is what and explain the different things. We'll have to go back again when it warms up and I'll fill you in!!

Christmas 2010

2011-01-16T21:25:00.004-05:00

Lee and Tommy went to Lowe's to pick out a tree on a very windy night at the beginning of December. I'm just glad Lee was able to go because strapping a tree to the roof of your car when it's 5 degrees or lower is what you call painful in my opinion!

Every year Christmas tree decorating is the same! Kassie does most of the hanging and Tommy does most of the hanging in the wrong places.

When my friend Raven came up to visit from Kentucky, we went to the museum to see Santa. Tommy has yet to sit on Santa's lap. I don't know what it is but right before it's Tommy's turn, he runs away screaming no!! Maybe next year!

The Ortho group had an Ugly Christmas Sweater party this year. Lee grew a mustache as you can see. He didn't win the contest but two of the other residents were kind enough to place a bet/challenge. The bet was, Lee would NOT shave his stache for a week and keep that very handsome hair style to go with it. I must say, he made it the entire week. He thankfully was able to shave it Christmas morning.

These are our new friends the Dockters, Lindsay and Eric. He's a first year in Lee's program and yes, he's Dr. Dockter!

Lee's parents came out for Christmas this year!! They made the 28 hour + drive from Arizona to see us!!! Brenda brought a gingerbread house for the kids to assemble. I like this picture because it shows Kassie still eating the candy after I said no more and Tommy sulking because I said no more candy. There comes a point where you must say stop because it's 9 o'clock in the morning and you know in a half an hour they're either going to say their tummy hurts and/or they'll be running around like wild maniacs. Right?! I know, I'm sooo mean!

For Christmas Eve dinner I cooked this year folks! Last year we had hot dogs if I remember correctly! Sorry the lighting is so bad! Oh, and may I bring your attention to Lee's lovely facial hair. He smiled like that on purpose just to remind us it's there!

On Christmas morning we had to WAKE the kids up because Lee was on call. Yes, he had to work on Christmas. Sad, I know but someone has to do it!

Kassie got her Fire Breathing Dragon she was longing for.

Tommy got a really cool dragon fortress that makes scary noises and lights up. Samantha was sleeping but she got a few toys too!

Grandpa Ed got to learn all about Pokemon and who is a fire type or water type and who evolves into what. (Don't ask! It's complicated. Just ask Kass, she'll give you the run down!)

Lee was on call on Christmas, so we took a big pot of Chicken Tortilla Soup down to the hostipal for Christmas dinner.

Seriously, that can't be comfortable! Tommy ALWAYS falls asleep in the car.

I went sledding with Kassie and Tommy. Brenda also came along to watch. It was cold, bumpy, and fun.

(photo by Bethany)

What's that in my salad?

2011-01-12T09:32:00.002-05:00

You see this little guy, I mean huge enormous thing with really long legs and sharp teeth? Well, I have a story to tell about him. I was enjoying my salad I made with the Spring Mix I bought from Costco and out crawls a green shield bug. I am not kidding when I say that it was the most disgusting thing. Luckily I didn't take a bite with him in it. Seriously, I don't need the extra bug protein!

One Snowy Day

2011-01-11T20:58:00.003-05:00

If Kassie had it her way, she would have everyone out in the cold with her. She doesn't mind the freezing cold wind, or wet snow in her face, gloves and boots.

(trust me, it's really not warm enough in my house to walk around without a shirt)

Tommy and Samantha on the other hand have it down, staying inside and enjoying fruit roll ups and mushy bananas. I think I side with them.

Tommy

2011-01-10T21:51:00.003-05:00

After I gave Tommy a bath, I left to find him a shirt to wear. I came back and found him asleep on the rug. I guess taking bath was just a little too exhausting for him.

Samantha is 6 months (back in November)

2011-01-10T21:19:00.004-05:00

Look at this baby girl! She is the most adorable little blue eyed girl I've ever seen. I'm not bias or anything!! She is so happy and content and the kids love her. Unfortunately, at night she's had some issues and always has until recently at 7 months. I'm not kidding when I say that she used to wake up 10-15 times a night screaming. It was torture!! There were so many times where I ended up holding her on my chest just so I could get so rest. Wow, bad memories of sleepless nights are coming back to me as I'm writing this. But luckily the worst is over. To make a long story short, she's on reflux medicine and she's doing much better which means I'm doing much better. It's amazing what a little sleep will do for you!! Now I feel like I need to catch up on things!

Thanksgiving 2010

2011-01-10T20:27:00.003-05:00

For Thanksgiving this year, we packed up the van and headed to Canton, Ohio to visit my Aunt and Uncle. It was so great to see family. The kids played the Wii. I made cards and Lee got to relax. What more could you ask for.

Extreme Blog Makeover

2011-01-05T21:05:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year to all of you loyal Pooled Reflections readers. I have so much to catch up on and isn't that always the case!!! But first I wanted to give credit to my friend Raven who worked her magic and helped me fix my bog and teach me a few pointers on Photo Shop. (Let's see if I remember them.) And second I need to thank Anna for taking the fabulous family photos of us.

More coming soon!

Family Photos 2010

2010-12-11T11:06:00.001-05:00

David After Dentist

2010-11-28T21:29:00.001-05:00

This video almost made me pee my pants. It is hilarious!

Indiana Pacers game on a Saturday night

2010-11-21T20:55:00.004-05:00

We told the kids they could have a choice between the Circus or an Indiana Pacers game. Tommy didn't have to think twice. He chose the basketball game hands down! Kassie on the other hand, had a very hard time deciding. In fact, she shed a few tears because she "just couldn't decide". However, it turned into a teaching moment, where we talked about how to make decisions.

We bought Family Night Tickets where you get a free hot dog, a bag a chips, a small drink, and a t-shirt. Oh, and we got a babysitter for Samantha because the game started at 7 p.m.

Here's how the night went.......

We get to the stadium parking structure and didn't have any cash. So we had to drive around until we found an ATM. Luckily it wasn't too far. But meanwhile, Kassie thinks it's the end of the world because we got there and had to leave. She quickly realized that we were going back and stopped whining. The kids were super excited about the outing with just the "big kids". When we got there and found our seats, we were pleasantly surprised that we could actually SEE the court!!! We ate our smashed hot dogs that were swimming in ketchup and mustard and got greasy fingers from our chips. The kids even got to drink an entire small Sprite all by themselves but without a consequence though. Kassie literally had to pee 6 times and Tommy twice! But hey, it's family fun night! They got to scream "GO PACERS" until they were red in the face.

(I'm really not trying to choke Tommy in this picture! I may have wanted to today at church when he was being so naughty during Sacrament meeting due to the lack of sleep because he didn't go to bed until 10 pm! Don't worry! I don't think of choking my kids!)

You know you need to bring binoculars when you sit in the "nose bleeds".

International Festival

2010-11-21T20:29:00.005-05:00

On Friday, Kassie's school had a International Festival. There were tables set up representing different countries. Each kid got a passport and was able to travel around to the different countries. Our neighbor Yukiko represented Japan. She probably had the coolest and most detailed table. She folded over 12o small and intricate Origami's. Her daughter Yamana, let Yukiko use all of her Pokemon as part as the set up. Kassie was drooling over all different Pokemon. The festival was very fun and it was such a great idea.

I don't know what it is, but both Kassie and Tommy think it's the neatest thing that our neighbors are from Japan. They let people know their neighbors speak Japanese and are from a different country. I often let Tommy ride the scooter in the front while I unload groceries and such but come to find out, he has been knocking on Yukiko's door just to say hello. I love the fact that we have wonderful people living next door to us. I hope the kids can look back and remember the good times we spent out front playing with the Unos.

Halloween 2010

2010-11-08T21:58:00.004-05:00

Our pumpkins look a little sad and droopy but they made it through a huge storm/tornado here in Indy. Yes, I did say tornado. Our neighborhood got hit pretty hard with strong winds that snapped trees in half and blew trampolines over houses. Fortunately, the only thing that was damaged at our house was our umbrella from our patio set. The grill was knocked over too but wasn't damaged.
Kassie said she wanted to wear the same costume as last year which I was totally fine with and grateful for. I found Tommy's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle at a garage sale and Samantha's we borrowed from a friend. I'm all about easy lately!

Look at those cheeks! Seriously, so kissable. Poor thing got her first cold and was lucky enough to get an ear infection with it!

Tommy had a Halloween party at preschool. Each class participates in a costume parade. He eventually saw my friend trying to sneak and picture of him. That's why you see the arms folded with the grumpy face.

More October Stuff

2010-10-24T22:18:00.003-04:00

I love this picture so much because it reminds me how sweet and cute this guy can be. He never wants to wear a tie but he said he could put it on for a picture just this one time.
I helped put on a baby shower for my new friend Lauren who's husband is an Intern in Lee's program.

Kassie has been taking Flat Stanley where ever we go. She was chosen by our neighbor to complete a Flat Stanley project. ( It's based on a book, just in case you were wondering)

We find Samantha in funny places because she has learned to roll all over the place.

That's it, nothing too exciting. Lee went to Denver this past weekend for a class. We had our Primary Program. It was wonderful. I love to hear the Primary sing. There is something extra special about it. Samantha is starting to sleep a little better and I can't forget to mention how nice and warm the weather has been.

Good stuff!

Samantha is 4 months

2010-10-20T19:42:00.000-04:00

If you give a baby rice cereal................

They're going to want toe jam to go with it!

10/10/10

2010-10-19T17:20:00.002-04:00

Kassie turned six years old on 10/10/10. Can you believe it? We celebrated Pokemon style. Well, kind of! Kassie LOVES Pokemon and wanted a Pokemon party. I did the best I could since I am clueless when it comes to Pokemon and she often let's me know that. Both Lee and I talked her into inviting a few friends to Chuck E Cheese instead of a huge party here at our house.

On Friday I picked up the Kindergarten girls from school and we headed to Chuck E Cheese's. It was perfect. I didn't have to worry about much and what kid doesn't like Chuck E Cheese.

Sunday was the 10th, so I got ambitious and made a homemade Red Velvet cake which was a birthday tradition in family growing up. (Now I know why the icing is sooooo good.) We invited our neighbors the Unos over for cake and sang "Happy Birthday" to the Kassinator!

Kassie Facts
Favorite color: Pink

Favorite foods: Watermelon, cheese pizza, apples

Favorite movie: How to Train Your Dragon

Favorite cartoon: Pokemon

Favorite book: Harry Potter and Indian in the Cupboard

What do you want to be when you grow up: A Mom

Hobbies: Read, swim, ride bikes

Who's your best friend: Yamana Uno

Favorite scripture story: Daniel in the lion's den

Favorite thing to do at school: Math station

Favorite thing to do at church: Doing activities in class

What do you like about having a brother: Playing Bakugan with him

What do you like about having a baby sister: She's fun and I love to help feed her baby food
What do you like about living in Indiana: The fun Children's Museum, the zoo, parks, and there are lots of nice people here.

What's your favorite season: Summer because it's the season of school break

Just Because

2010-10-17T21:55:00.003-04:00

Septmember Ends

2010-10-02T22:02:00.003-04:00

Oh hi, everyone! What have we been up to? Well, I don't know exactly what we have been doing, but we have been busy. Actually I do know, we've been driving around town taking kids here and there, back and forth. I knew it was going to be a year full of driving! Poor Samantha gets the shaft and sleeps in the car most of the time. Tommy sneaks in a nap once in a while too.

Speaking of sleep, what's that?? I keep asking myself if I'm ever going to get a full night sleep again! If it's not Samantha it's Tommy waking up in the middle of the night.

Samantha can go about 6 hours at night and that is it! I told the doctor about this and how it's crazy that she can't go longer and her reply was, "Oh, 6 hours, that's really good for her. She needs to eat." Great....sigh.... OK, I say. Some day, my son won't have to ask me why I have purple things under my eyes. Luckily I have great under eye concealer.

On to other cute and more important things, like this adorable little baby girl who is 4 months old. You can't tell by looking at her chubby cheeks but she's moved up from 10% in weight to 25%. She is exactly the same weight and height as Kassie was. Like I said, Skinny Bean #2. She is so smiley and happy. She always wants to see what's going on and doesn't want to miss a thing. I love it how every one's voice gets an octave higher while talking to her. Oh and can you believe that hair! Seriously, so cute!

Tommy's First Day of Preschool

2010-09-07T20:50:00.005-04:00

Seriously! This kid makes me melt. Look at that big smile and those light blue eyes! He can be so charming and sweet when he wants to be. He literally has grown up over night! His behavior has improved greatly and most of the time I feel like things are getting back to "normal" or maybe I should say our "new normal". Preschool is exactly what Tommy needed.

Samantha Jean at three months

2010-08-30T20:57:00.004-04:00

I have really enjoyed Samantha as a newborn. She is so sweet and content most of the time. She loves to smile and move her arms and legs a million miles an hour! She is definitely a skinny bean but we love her chicken legs!

I cannot take credit for these beautiful and amazing pictures. My friend Sarah here and Indy worked her magic.

Kindergarten here we come!!

2010-08-18T22:41:00.002-04:00

Newport Aquarium Cincinnati, Ohio

2010-08-18T22:28:00.005-04:00

Samantha at 2 1/2 months

2010-08-12T22:02:00.003-04:00

2010 4th of July

2010-07-23T15:35:00.003-04:00

Tommy and soccer

2010-07-23T15:31:00.001-04:00

Sammie J is 7 weeks

2010-07-16T14:25:00.000-04:00

Kiddos

2010-07-14T21:41:00.005-04:00

Miss Samantha is 6 weeks now and is starting to smile. She is seriously so cute and I can even say she's cute when she cries. I am definitely enjoying the newborn stage more this time around. Her hair continues to stick up in the back and I think it gets longer and longer by the day. Samantha unfortunately has her mother's curse and has chicken legs. (That was one of my nick names as a newborn. I know, sad.) She is so long and skinny. She loves to open her eyes really really big.

Grandma and Grandpa Heck's Visit

2010-07-13T12:05:00.008-04:00

My parents came into town last month and what a perfect way to start out their visit by taking them to the Indianapolis Speedway Museum.

There weren't any cars practicing but a trip around the track is always fun.

Kassie really wanted to grill with Grandpa Tom who is known as The Grill Master

Even though my parents are from Arizona aka the land of bath water pools during the summer, they were troopers and took the kids swimming in our neighborhood pool which can be pretty chilly!

Blueberry pancakes were a favorite.

Tennis lesson with Grandpa. Tommy decided he didn't want to participate.

It was super hot and humid so Grandma and baby hung out in the shade.

Samantha's Blessing day June 27th

Tommy did a lot of this.

And maybe just a little of this.

But Grandpa had to give them this.....THE CLAW!!

Life with three kids

2010-07-12T08:15:00.004-04:00

I'll start by saying, it ain't easy folks. It's been a big adjustment for everyone especially Tommy. There are only so many things you can do with one hand when the kids out number you. My biggest challenge is bath time and bedtime when Lee is gone. Usually someone is crying and everyone wants mommy. Kassie has been a life saver! She really is such a great helper and has matured so much over the past few months. She has embraced the role of big sister and even has been super patient with Tommy who's a grump a lot of the time.

One good thing is, going shopping with three kids isn't as bad as I thought. We can usually make it in and out of the store without any problems. There might be some major bribery going on but you gotta do what works to keep everyone sane, right!

Things will settle down eventually and we're going to make it though this time. (I totally get why my mom was so excited for school to start.) But for now, we're going to enjoy the rest of the summer.

Miss Samantha Jean is one month

2010-07-07T21:39:00.006-04:00

Samantha is a sweet baby with a tiny cry. She is doing well and growing like crazy. We call her Skinny Bean #2. (Kassie is Skinny Bean #1) Her eye lashes are long and dark and her hair sticks straight up in the back. These pictures are already out of date, so I guess I better get out the camera. More pictures to come.

(Taken after her first bath, can you tell she loved it!)

The Past Two Weeks

2010-06-08T14:39:00.005-04:00

Baby Samantha will be two weeks tomorrow. She is a good baby and I hate to say that because I wouldn't want to jinx myself. She has done remarkable well so far. Last week was super busy with different things. She didn't mind being dragged around which will probably be a common occurrence being the third child.

The labor and delivery went well. She just about flew out with one push! I was induced a week early. Through out the entire pregnancy, I warned the doctor that she was going to be big. The doctor would ask me how big to do you think she's going to be and my answer was bigger than my first two. So, I'm glad I didn't have to wait another week.

I feel pretty good! I'm up during the night of course but I try and take a rest during quiet time each day which totally helps. Lee's mom has been here helping out with the cooking and cleaning. It has been so nice to have an extra set of hands! It was a sad sad day yesterday when she left. Tommy fell a sleep in the car and didn't officially get to say good bye, so when we got home and realized she was gone, he was pretty upset. We went strawberry picking today to cheer us up.

Kassie had her big end of the year recital that she has been working towards the entire year. It was so wonderful to see her perform and do such a fabulous job. She was able to wear makeup which was super exciting for her. I'll have to post the short video clip later.

Both the kids are "adjusting" to the new baby. I have to admit there has been a little more fighting between the two and more crying. But for the most part, they are doing fine. It's amazing what I can do with just one arm!!

Samatha is here

2010-05-27T14:02:00.009-04:00

Here are some pictures of baby Samantha, born 5/26 at 8:18 AM, 8 lbs. 5 oz. 20.5 inches. Mom and baby are home and doing well.

Here is a video of the kids together for the first time

Kassie Graduates

2010-05-19T21:52:00.003-04:00

Kassie graduated from preschool Tuesday night from Light and Life Christian Preschool. The best part of the evening, was the slide show. There was a picture of each student and the answer to the question, "What do you want to be when you grow up?" Kassie said, a mom. We've had such a great experience at Light and Life and I'm excited Tommy starts there in the fall.

A day at the park

2010-05-10T21:55:00.003-04:00

Mother's Day 2010

2010-05-10T21:52:00.004-04:00

Look at these two angles! Don't they look so sweet and innocent! I love them and I'm grateful to be their mother.

The baby plans are, if I don't go into labor before the 26th, I'm going to be induced that day.

Dance

2010-05-05T23:33:00.005-04:00

Kassie's year of dance is coming to an end. Kassie loves her costume and is looking forward to her big recital next month.

Tommy a pretty good sport about going to "Kassie's dance stuff".

Lee was post call and was able to come too!

Baby Shower

2010-05-05T23:24:00.004-04:00

Last week my friends threw me a baby shower. Another friend of mine is due a few weeks before me, so we had a double baby shower. It was great. We were totally pampered with a much needed pedicure!

I am laughing at this picture! My friend MADE me take it!! It's totally embarrassing and I told her I would not make a heart with my hands on my belly!

I think it's amazing and wonderful my friends put together a baby shower for me especially since this will be my third baby!

The Latest Happenings

2010-05-02T21:47:00.008-04:00

It's May folks and it's going to be a busy next few weeks. The kids have been crazy and so have I. What is in the water?? It must be spring fever. Is there such a thing? We are pretty much in baby mode. I have been working on my list of things to do before the baby comes. I'm not always successful but I'm working on it. Clean the refrigerator and stove are at the bottom but I have high hopes to get them cleaned. Lets face it, the last month of pregnancy isn't exactly the prettiest. Kassie calls my belly the "BIG Bonker" and says it's so huge and can't get any bigger. The baby is using my bladder as a pillow, so you can guess what I do four times a night!! I may have fallen asleep on the couch last week sitting up. I just so happened to twitch so bad that my leg fell off the couch and woke me up. I'm just hoping that it doesn't get too hot and muggy so my toes don't swell and turn into "little smokies".

Other news.... Kassie and her friend Rachel decided it was a great idea to dress their brothers in fancy skirts and sparkly high heels. Tommy is not quite sure about all his fancy apparel in this picture. But he did admit to liking his blue sequence shoes. And Rachel was probably thinking she picked a perfect outfit for her brother, a green skirt that matches his green sweater. All this dress up for boys is ok right? I mean, Lee's sisters dressed him up and he turned out just fine. Tommy is doomed. Two sisters to try and make him wear pink and be fancy. What can I say!!

These two pictures were taken at about 4 o'clock. Tommy just couldn't hang any longer. Growing out of naps is a hard thing to do!! It's nice to see a picture of his sweet peaceful face because lately, I would say, sweet does not describe this little feller.

A few weeks ago a was able to attend Time Out for Women here in Indianapolis. I loved it! I hope I can go every year.

P.S. Don't these two beauties make you want to have long hair!!
And yes, my big bonker is even bigger then what is it in this picture, so watch out kids. Don't mess with mom or I'll use my bonker as a weapon.

Easter

2010-04-10T09:09:00.006-04:00

The Easter Bunny thought the kids already had too much candy from their previous Easter egg hunts, so he filled the eggs with pennies instead.

Despite Tommy's little pouty face, the ward Easter Egg hunt was so much fun. Don't worry, I say smile and he gives me a frown.

Both kids enjoyed hunting for eggs

eating cupcakes

and playing games.

We had our friends over for Easter dinner and I cooked, can you believe it!!

Spring Break

2010-04-10T09:05:00.004-04:00

Spring Break this year consisted of....

"practicing" swimming in the bath tub

spending a lot of time outside

getting really dirty from digging for worms and making a nest for them

and making mischief of one kind during quiet time. (that's Tommy's piggy bank which he isn't suppose to play with)
Oh, and don't forget about a pregnant lady who's belly is now sticking straight out and is officially in the home stretch.

March Update

2010-03-24T22:22:00.004-04:00

I can't believe March is almost over. We have been enjoy the fabulous weather. I also have been organizing things and getting ready for the baby before I get too big and too tired to do anything.

I finished the downstairs bathroom, trim (that was half blue and half cream) and all. I almost finished the front entryway trim too, but I have to admit, sitting on the floor isn't exactly the easiest and most comfortable thing at 30 weeks.

(Note to self....do not buy a house that has three different colors of trim throughout the house. Not fun!)
Tommy finally has his own pair of glasses.

The kids like to play with the neighbor's dog. I say go for it because there won't be any dogs around the Richardson household for at least few more years.

The kids started soccer last week. It's an indoor program on Saturdays that's right down the street.

Lee also replaced the boards of our deck that were rotting and were a what I call a splinter hazard.

Tommy....this kid is giving me a run for my money. He turned three and has given me nothing but trouble!! Everything is "NO"along with screaming and yelling. It doesn't help that he's growing out of his nap.

The kids went on a little field trip with the mom's group preschool to Holliday Park. They went on a nature hike and then were able to play on the playground afterwards. Lee even came too. He was post call.I hope the warm weather is here to stay. It's always a relief to say we've made it through another winter.

Happy Spring!

Tommy is 3

2010-02-25T21:09:00.005-05:00

Tommy turned three. My little baby boy is growing up and I can't believe it.

He wanted a helicopter and was so excited when he got one.

A three year old birthday wouldn't be complete with out a trip to Chuck E Cheese! The monster truck ride was Tommy absolute favorite.

And there was some serious bonking with the over sized mallet.

Oh, and don't forget about Dad participating in the fun.

What a little ham. I love his funny personality and how he gets super excited about things.

Barbie and Bob

2010-02-25T21:02:00.003-05:00

The kids and I went to the museum to check out the new exhibits, Bob the Builder and Barbie The Fashion Experience. Pretty cool stuff!

The Tie

2010-02-25T20:48:00.002-05:00

I have been trying to get Tommy to wear a tie for a very long time. He's pretty adamant about picking out exactly what he wants but finally after many Sundays, he decided he could wear a tie. He didn't want me to take a picture of him and actually was standing in the corner with his arms crossed until I asked him to give me his loudest scariest ROAR. As you can see, he had no problems doing so.

The Beauty of Winter

2010-02-25T20:23:00.003-05:00

Very rarely do I EVER mention the words beauty and winter together in the same sentence. However, I do think these pictures of our neighborhood show the beauty winter can offer.

These days, you have to be creative

2010-02-15T21:54:00.003-05:00

School was cancelled a few days last week, which means the kids and I were stuck at home. I have lost count of the days where we have stayed in our pajamas all day watching the snow fall. It's a good thing we had some creativity going on in the Richardson household, because cabin fever is starting to set in!!

Here is Kassie in her new Valentine dress that Grandma Brenda made her. So cute!!

Kassie is playing a game called "Parachute Buddies". From what I remember, her little red animal had a parachute tied around it's waist and she was tossing it down the stairs to see if it would of course parachute down. You may notice that Kassie also has a parachute attached to her waist, but don't worry, she did not try and parachute down the stairs.

I love, I repeat love that Kassie and Tommy can play together. Here they are playing puppies and superheroes. It isn't always peaches and roses but for the most part, they have a lot of fun together.

Kassie couldn't pass up an opportunity to practice a dance move.

Snow, snow and more snow

2010-02-15T21:36:00.003-05:00

We have had so much snow this year. Well, not as much as other states but it just keeps coming and we can't do much about it except embrace it......right!!! So, why not make a snowman, a Valentine Snowman.

Kassie was not happy about the snowman's hat. She didn't think a cowboy hat was right for Mr. Valentine Snowman. But hey, what's a day without a little whining about a silly hat.

This picture makes me laugh. I love it.

Tommy didn't care if the snowman had a hat or no hat. All he wanted, was to be covered in snow. Yes, crazy and not something I would choose but that ok.

Rockin' Rollers

2010-02-15T21:24:00.003-05:00

Kassie is a Rockin' Rollers star. She was super excited to go roller skating and she was very determined to "skate on her own". With some hard work and a few falls on her tiny bottom, she was skating like a champ.

As you can tell from the pictures, Tommy wasn't as excited to skate. He took a few laps around the rink and was done. He wanted to "play" the video games instead.