McCarthy Mayhem

HCA JV Basketball

2009-12-05T08:47:00.004-05:00

This is the first year that Kaelyn and Ashlyn are trying their hand at basketball. The practice schedule is intense. Every day after school until 5:30, except for Wednesday, these kids are running the court. We have played two games so far, with another one today.
Gettin' ready to rumble.
Kaelyn ran up and down that court.

Ashlyn is trying to understand each position.

Man down! Elbow to the nose. Ugh.

My ballers in action:

Yook! A way-yo!

2009-09-13T15:33:00.003-04:00

Kaeleb certainly knew what this play sculpture was, as he told us over and over again...from a distance. Although he may have known this was a "Way-yo", I don't think knew this whale was not real. He refused to be anywhere near this gentle giant.
The older girls, on the other hand, thought this whale duo was "awesome"!

Parkin' it on the Island

2009-09-13T15:14:00.004-04:00

With the weather in the mid 80's, we took the family to the Island for some warm weather fun.
Much to our surprise, there was a new playground on the water front. WAHOO!

We usually visit the park on Jekyll, but I think we may have found a new spot. Ashlyn was diggin' the big kid equipment.

There was a little something for everyone, even for those who dance to the beat of a very different drum.
Lots of new places to "chill."

New heights to climb.

Much more for the older girls to do.

Do you think Abbi likes it?

Monkeys certainly approve.

The weather was bearable, the rain was only a sprinkle, and the Christan band playing in the back ground just made our day. What a fun afternoon!

MOSH Fun

2009-09-13T09:21:00.006-04:00

For Labor Day, we took the family down to the Museum of Science and History in Jacksonville, FL. What an awesome place to visit!
My whole crew takes center stage.
And one of the pack really likes being the star!

We explored the history exhibits. This was the deck of an old ferry boat. I think that Aoife and Kaedence mistook it for a jungle gym!

In the Spanish monk exhibit, Abbi asks me with a distorted look upon her face: "Mommy, why are they using dead people? That's so gross!" LOL!

We walked on the deck over the St. Johns river. They were able to see turtles, fish, and frogs.

Back inside, they looked at river inhabitants close up. Notice that Kaeleb is no where to be found. The sign on the door said "SHHHHH...live animals." He lasted 0.5 seconds, then he and daddy went back out again.

The aquarium exhibits were a big hit with everyone.

Wow, those fish were awesome!

The human body display was fantastic! Unfortunately, the loud beating heart and all the bodily noises was just too much for Kaeleb and Kaedence to stomach. We flew through that exhibit with flames on our heels. Ashlyn did manage to stop and smell the roses a bit.

In the kids zone, this huge tree made of a very fun game of hide and seek.

But perhaps the most fun to be had was at the water table. All my children, big and small, LOVED this! Ashlyn was busy directing the flow of water.

Kaelyn and Kaeleb loved the boats.

Seriously, this kid would have been content to stay here all day!

The trio just had a blast.

Even daddy got his feet wet with this water playground. Anyone surprised? LOL!

We now have an annual pass so that we can enjoy MOSH many times in the future. Next time though, the big kids can go exploring the exhibits without the little ones in tow. The kids zone is about all they can handle!

Endless Summer Nights

2009-08-16T09:49:00.004-04:00

What better way to close out the summer season then by enjoying pool before it's closed again. It's still so hot that we have to wait until the sun is setting.

The walk to the pool is great exercise and it sure does help to wear out those monkeys!
Cheese!

Ashlyn and Kaelyn getting ready to "hot dog roll" into the pool.

Hang on Ashlyn! LOL!

Catch in the pool becomes a little more competitive then necessary.
Aoife has discovered that she is not able to breathe underwater. What a shocker!

After an entire summer of working on tummy floating, Kaedence finally allows Ashlyn to help her swim around. Go Kaedence!

But she prefers to chill with Tutter in the shallow end.

Kaelyn has perfected back and front flips without holding her nose.

Abbi still refuses to jump in. Even into Daddy's arms. Ahhhh...maybe next season.

Check out this awesome diver!

Kaedence and Kaeleb dismantle the pool furniture.

Is this water yoga?

Aoife takes a trip to the deep end via an Ashlyn boat.

The Lord's Prayer

2009-08-14T13:00:00.001-04:00

For the first week of Kindergarten, Abbi needed to memorize the Lord's prayer. This was a tremendous struggle. We worked on it, and worked on it, and worked on it. But, she just didn't quite get the hang of it.

This was our last attempt before bed last night. There is some improvement, right?

Today is her test. I am not feeling confident that she'll pass! LOL! I wonder if perhaps extra points are awarded for being so darn cute?

A Visit from Vegas

2009-08-13T13:53:00.000-04:00

Grandmom and Grandpop McCarthy came to Georgia to see all of their grand kids. We went to the beach, watched movies, and splashed at the pool. What a wonderful end to our summer.
It's the whole McCarthy Clan. (Well...minus the photographer, of course!)
Aoife wants Grandmom to fetch that ring at the bottom of the pool!

Grandmom and the other redhead!

Awww, look at lovey grandmom and all her snuggly girls.

Now that's a full couch! I think Jo is asking Grandpop to scoot on over. Surely there is room for a fat dog too, LOL!

Grandmom and Grandpop are on their way back home now. It was a great visit and they are very missed.

Back in Session

2009-08-06T11:13:00.000-04:00

The first day of school is upon us again. Let the craziness and Monster drink consumption begin!

Five o'clock wake up.
Mad dash around the house for uniform pieces.
Four girls pushing and shoving around the one mirror in my bathroom. Preschooler with faces plastered against the window searchin' for signs of the school bus.
Busy, busy, busy!!!

Kaeleb walked right up to that school bus without any concerns! He was so very ready for school.
The girls are so excited to get on the bus that they are literally competing for space on the steps! What a difference from the beginning of last year, right?
The older three are attending a private Christian academy. I love the uniforms! After a year of homeschooling, Ashlyn and Kaelyn were so excited to be back at an actual school!

Kaelyn and Abbi are patiently waiting for their classes to begin. Oh, my children are growing up so fast!

And the Killer Tomato is in Kindergarten!!!! Where does the time go?

Okay, someone pass me the tissue.

Talk About A Head Case

2009-08-05T13:04:00.004-04:00

Yesterday was a hospital day for Kaeleb. All that testing and drama, and we found out really nothing new. Very disappointing.

He is brain injured. Uh, yep.

I like the new neurologist. He speaks my language and knows what I am looking to do, as a mom, for my kid. He understood my lack of desire for psych meds. He never placed a limit on my kid's potential. He was great! When I asked: "What do we do next?" the doctor answered "We do the next thing." So, what's that exactly? Sedated MRI with and without contrast and the genetics work-up. Then we get plugged in with the psychiatrist who will manage him and his meds. We stick with the speech, occupations, and physical therapies and he stays in the special needs preschool.

The good news? He is not mentally retarded. That diagnosis will be removed from his medical records. That is something I have been fighting since he was first tested. Anyone who deals with my kid knows that his concerns do not come from a lack of mental ability.

Here's that sleepy bug at 3 am. His test required a 24 hour sleep deprivation. What an undertaking that was!!!

A sleepy Kaeleb walking into the Children's hospital.

Kaeleb during testing. He screamed so much that he broke the capillaries in his cheeks!

Taking a break at the hospital cafeteria.

Waiting for the Neurologist.

Georgia Peaches at the Beach

2009-08-01T11:32:00.000-04:00

Summer is almost over! Time to hit the beach with Grammy and Pop-pop!

Check out these Beach Buns!
Sand remains Kaeleb's enemy. Thank goodness it's Daddy to the rescue!

Kaeleb and Grammy are gonna chill on the towels, knockin' back some apple juice instead. Dirty feet is totally overrated.
Who wouldn't want to relax in the sun with this sweet monkey?
Boogie Boarding is such a blast. Abbi has the right idea.

Look at those girls go!

Kaelyn is ridin' the waves.
These monkeys are simply taking a ride. LOL!

A perfect wave for Ashlyn. Strong enough to bring her in, but not large enough to take her out!

Sure looks like a boogie board babe to me!

The skim boards were a huge hit. It took a little more practice though.

Aoife and Pop-pop take a beach stroll.
The whole surfin' crew.

Back to the Hotel

2009-06-22T17:29:00.009-04:00

The sleeping accommodations were ghetto, but the Campgrounds at Fort Wilderness were very nice. Aunt Stacey, Uncle Chris, and Christopher slept in the cabins. We spent much of our time with them. Although the parks were fun, perhaps the best times of the weekend were back at the campgrounds.

We kicked it in the dry cabin, just chillin' as a family.

Those monkeys played tag in the puddles.

Nothing like a rousing game of hide and seek.

We wrestled with Uncle Chris.

We held meaningful conversations.

We ran to the pool to escape the heat.
Well, that is until the rain came...again... Then, those of us with common sense intact, sought shelter.
While others braved the icky weather and sought out beer.

We laughed at Captain Morgan impressions.

Some of us caught cabin fever.

And others caught that magical feeling.

Not rain, nor heat, nor crying triplets could break our spirits!

The Happiest Place on Earth

2009-06-22T16:31:00.006-04:00

While it was happy times for the most part, we certainly had our share of meltdowns and drama.
That darn "No Shirt, No Service" policy proved to be a quite the mood killer!

Look at the smiles on those faces. Just don't look at Kaeleb. One of these kids is doin' his own thing...

And that pesky security guard. Geesh! Rules, rules, rules...

Disney does not allow stollers or carts that are pulled from behind. Great... We moved through the parks with lightening speed!

Aunt Stacey is all done. LOL! (and, uh, Kaedence is naked again.) That look on her face clearly says: "Where's the alcohol?"

Taking Disney by Storm

2009-06-16T09:55:00.011-04:00

Look at our fresh faced crew. Notice the sunshine. A beautiful day of fun rides and amazing sights awaits us! That is...until we actually got into the park.

Not a big deal for our park-goers. The puddles merely added to the excitement.With the triplets in tow, we had to divide an conquer most of the time. At Magic Kingdom, Kevin and I stayed with the group for the first few hours. The trio rode Pirates and Small World. Then we toured the park to see all the sights. Kevin and I broke away from the herd and took the little kids back to the campgrounds so the older ones could do all the rides with Uncle Chris and Aunt Stacey.

The next day, we headed as a group to Animal Kingdom. The heat and crowds got the best of us all, so we made it an early day.

But the fearless crew did manage to get themselves soaked on the rapids before we left!

We also caught the "Bugs Life" show before we retreated back to the campgrounds. Abbi is cute as a bug, don't you think?On our final day, the older girls and I went solo to Animal Kingdom. We ate at the Rainforest Cafe. YUMMY!!! We rode the rides. Poor Kaelyn was the only one who actually saw the dinosaur on this ride. The rest of us chickens were practicing the old "Duck and Cover" drill! LOL!

We saw the sights.

We played in the dirt.

The older girls rode Mt. Everest while Abbi and I got ice cream. It was a good day.

Doin' Disney...Ghetto Style!

2009-06-15T17:19:00.009-04:00

So my sister-in-law and I decided to bring both families down to Disneyworld to celebrate all of the summer birthdays in one fantastic event. The plan was fabulous.

The problem? I have six children.

Add two adults to six children and that (according to Disney) equals two bedrooms in one of their resorts. Ugh. That's double the money in a time when money is too short.

The solution? Camp Wilderness and our RV.

Anyone else cringe?

If you happen to be the outdoorsy type, perhaps this seems like a good idea. For me...well, I was less than enthusiastic. But, the kids were excited and I really wanted to see my brother and his family, so a camping we will go!

Here's our humble abode. Check out that kitchen! LOL! (and the "goofy" chef)

Being one with nature for several days didn't stop my princess from looking like a princess!

Even my punk princess was still able to manage her look.

Little Christopher felt the magic of Disney too!

We had campfire breakfasts in foil packs. Scrambled eggs and sausage!

And we dined in style.

We managed to cage all the monkeys.
Even the big ones!

Kaeleb surely doesn't seem to mind.

We slept in cramped quarters, but no one was worse for the wear.

Plus, we made S'mores!!!!

Uncle Chris and Christopher are perfecting their marshmallow toasting technique.

Kaelyn and Cousin Christopher are sure concentrating. Making s'mores is serious business!

Ashlyn and Daddy enjoyed campfire bananas. Nothing beats a roasted banana smothered in marshmallows and chocolate. (Except maybe a S'more...)
Check out these campers!

And did I mention the rain...that...never...stopped...

The Soccer Stars

2009-05-26T12:50:00.004-04:00

Team Avalanche
Ashlyn - Defender

Team Ravens

Kaelyn - Midfielder/Goal Keeper

Team Sea Monsters

Abigeal - Defender/Goal Keeper

Soccer Play Offs

2009-05-26T10:10:00.005-04:00

Abigeal and the Sea Monsters finished the season strong.
Look at her move!

Kaelyn helped the Ravens secure 2nd in the division.

Oh yeah! Rock on, Kaelyn!

Ashlyn, the ultimate defender, ensured that her team took 2nd in the Division too!

Go, Ashlyn!

It was sure a fun season. Tonight is the big soccer party and then we get to take a much needed soccer break! Yeah Coach Kevin and Coach Lea! LOL!

St. Jude Trike-a-Thon

2009-05-19T14:00:00.001-04:00

Abigeal's preschool participated in the St. Jude Bike-a-Thon this year. What fun it was! Abbi rode her bike around and around the track with all of her pals. She was really excited. Check out this Biker Princess:

The fire department showed up to give a demonstration, which the kids really enjoyed. Abbi was even able to shoot the fire hose!

Picture Perfect Day at the Park

2009-05-17T12:33:00.000-04:00

What better way to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon than playing at the park?

We are anxious for summer to get here. The weather is fabulous and our family needs more lazy, fun days like this. Summer fun, here we come!

Brush Your Teeth...Check!

2009-04-30T11:17:00.001-04:00

I'd call this "triple success" on one of parentings challenges in the toddler years.
Okay, so maybe there still room for improvement...
But, three kiddos all willing to brush their teeth, all by themselves? I call that success!

Oh, and really...does it get any cuter than that?

Easter Eggs

2009-04-16T09:00:00.000-04:00

In our house, we decorate Easter eggs and leave them for the Easter bunny, as sort of an "offering". The Easter bunny, who loves our eggs, replaces these fabulous creations with surprise filled eggs that are hidden around the house.
This year, the older girls and I were in San Diego, so we missed the Easter Egg festivities entirely. But Daddy had things all under control. In the McCarthy household, egg painting is serious stuff!

Kaeleb ate the paint and played with the eggs, but "to each his own," right?
Abbi was the ultimate artist. She took great pride in her work. Kaedence was content to count the eggs and see to it that they were safe. Egg safety is top priority!
Kaeleb figured out how to peel the eggs, which kept him very busy indeed!

Aoife rivaled her older sister in her artistic talents!

Here's the younger crew, wishing you a very Happy Easter!

An Easter Affair

2009-04-11T23:55:00.001-04:00

On Saturday afternoon, my younger four enjoyed an Easter celebration hosted by the church. What a party, indeed!

They blew bubbles...

enjoyed arts and crafts...

told stories...

snacked on yummy Easter treats...
and, of course, they hunted!
One of us let the rest of the group hunt, while she was content to steal eggs already gathered!

It was a fantastic afternoon and the kids had a blast.

Good Friday

2009-04-10T23:55:00.000-04:00

On Friday night, we attended church in preparation of Easter Sunday. I had a hard time wrangling those monkeys into the car, as the early evening was perfect weather for outside play.

I think we're in for a beautiful Easter weekend!

The Dawn Of A New Age

2009-04-04T01:08:00.002-04:00

Ah, the Renaissance period. The revival of Art, Literature, and Thinking.
Oh, the Renaissance fair. The revival of Décolletage (aka cleavage): What a terrific time I had hanging with my girls.Ignore the "Naughty" sign, as we were perfect ladies.
In these times, it was inappropriate for a lady to venture forth without a male chaperone. Not wanting to break any rules, I enjoyed the company of my Renaissance men. How cute are they? (Anyone notice the sign above their heads???)Alright, what happened to my valiant chaperones during this exchange?

My whole Renaissance clan:
This was so worth the scary plane flight to California. Cheers!

To the Left Coast

2009-04-03T00:38:00.002-04:00

Ashlyn, Kaelyn, and I made our seasonal journey to California for their family spring skiing trip. Although I hate to fly, it was nice to have some one on one time with my older two. We enjoyed the view from the plane, as we hopped from stop to stop on the cheapest flight we could find.
On the layovers, we ate Chinese food with chopsticks
and watched the careless workers fling our suitcases from the cart to the loading belt. (By the way, if you happen to own a black soft-sided rolling suitcase that did not make it to your destination, it fell off the back of the vehicle between gate 49 and 51 in Houston and the driver noticed but could not be bothered to go collect it.)
By the end of our tiresome journey, we were a bit stir crazy and I think Kaelyn had a headache...

After a night at Grammy and Pop-pop's we had almost fully recovered from our travels when Uncle Chris dazzled us with his culinary abilities. The morning was spent with my brother and then the girls were off to the mountains and I had a date with 1500's. LOL!

Aoife's Preschool Class Photo

2009-03-31T13:27:00.001-04:00

Allergic to Soccer

2009-03-21T20:07:00.001-04:00

My poor kid. How unfair is that? She was rockin' and rollin' in the goalie box, stopping everything that dared enter her domain, when grass was kicked up into her face during a spectacular save.

Grass.

Not anything special.

Just grass.

When her face started to swell, we wasted no time injecting her with Epinephrine. This picture was taken about 10 mins after medication on our way to the ER:

And here she is about two hours later, just waiting to be discharged:

Sunscreen, chlorine, grass, weeds, pollens, citric acid, latex, wheat, dairy, and the list goes on. Our allergist suggests a bubble. I wonder if he may just be on to something!

A Toast to St. Patrick

2009-03-17T07:50:00.006-04:00

Saint Patrick was a gentleman,
Who through strategy and stealth,
Drove all the snakes from Ireland,
Here’s a toasting to his health.
But not too many toastings
Lest you lose yourself and then
Forget the good Saint Patrick
And see all those snakes again.

Good ole' St. Patrick has been credited with the banishment of all the snakes from Ireland with only the aide of a wooden stick. Pretty powerful lad, huh? Neat story, but it's fiction. Ireland was never home to any snakes. This tale is mostly symbolic of the banishment of pagan ideology from Ireland by the conversion to Christianity. Ireland became an entirely Christan nation within two hundred years of St. Patrick's arrival. Now that's a truly powerful lad and something worth celebrating.

In our family, we celebrate our strong Irish heritage every single day. The plaque on our front door reads: "C'ead Mile Failte" meaning "A hundred thousand welcomes." Above the door to our bedroom hangs the Crosóg Bríde (Brigid's cross). At Christmas, our tree is adorned with traditional Irish ornaments and our table light up with a Celtic advent wreath. Our wedding ceremony filled with traditions and customs. Our wedding rings made in Ireland. Our children named in honor of Irish heroes and virtues.

This is a day when EVERYONE is Irish, regardless of heritage. Today, we will celebrate with fun crafts, stories, and cooking as a family. On tonight's menu: Irish Stew and soda bread.

Irish Stew:

2 lbs of stew meat

6 potatoes, sliced

2 onions, sliced

4 large carrots, quartered

1 minced clove of garlic

1 tsp salt

1 tsp pepper

1 tsp thyme

1 14oz can of beef broth

Layer meat and potatoes in the crockpot and add remaining ingredients. Cover and cook on Low for 8 to 10 hours. How easy is that?

Irish Soda Bread:

4 cups of flour

1 cup of sugar

1 tsp baking soda

2 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

3 eggs

1 pint sour cream

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Grease two 8x4 inch loaf pans. Mix the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Add the eggs and sour cream and mix until combined. Distribute evenly into pans. Bake at 325 degrees for 1 hour. Yummy!

A bit of Irish wisdom to brighten your day:

No son is as good as his father in his sister's eyes. No father is as good as his son in his mother's eyes.

May your home always be too small to hold all your friends.

May you be in heaven 1/2 hour before the devil knows you're dead.

In Heaven there is no beer, that is why we drink it here.

Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.

May you live a hundred years, with one extra to repent!

As you slide down the banister of life, may the splinters never point the wrong direction.

A trout in the pot is better than a salmon in the sea.

May the love and protection St. Patrick can give - Be yours in abundance as long as you live.

Soccer Rock Stars

2009-03-15T20:08:00.002-04:00

We are off to a great start this season. Avalanche rocked the field with a final score of 4 to 2. Ashlyn had an awesome game. She squared up with larger and older boys, and ran them off to the side lines. What a force to be reckoned with! She was on fire today.
Kaelyn played both goalie and forward during the game. She is a terrific forward, but allergies and asthma get the best of her after a while. Goalie allows her to rest her lungs a bit. She is stellar at both positions. She made several awesome saves today and is credited with two assists. She was rockin' and rollin'! Ravens took the game 5 to 4. Go Ravens!

The Sea Monsters are incredible. Last year, we were the Bad News Bears. This season, all the same kids (with one fabulous addition), yet they are phenomenal! We took this game for sure (not that we are keeping score, mind you). Abbi was a terrific defender. She had numerous spectacular saves today.

Abbi's kick off:

Avalanche sported their new uniforms today. Same colors, but different jersey. Ravens will be retiring their jerseys next week and Kaelyn will have an all new look. Sea Monsters are no longer purple (*snif*). Instead, they are a drab green, ugh. Next week, they will be sporting a whole new look as well.

Great players, supportive parents, and new uniforms...it's a gonna be a fabulous season!

Who Needs a Rembrandt?

2009-03-14T14:54:00.003-04:00

Who needs a Rembrandt when I have a house full of Picassos?
I can't think of a better way to adorn the walls of my home.

The Sleepy Sillies

2009-03-13T20:33:00.006-04:00

Ashlyn and I were up late last night working on her computer, when we found a welcome distraction in her camera! Who needs school work when you can take stupid pictures of yourselves instead? LOL!See, there you have it! Photographic evidence of two overly tired people who need their heads to meet their pillows. LOL! Goodnight!

My Love Returns

2009-03-13T19:16:00.006-04:00

After a little over a weeks time, my husband returns home this evening. I just can't wait. This has been a very long and exhausting week alone. Between working several nights, waking up very early to get the younger four monkeys to school, cleaning the house daily so that it is in good shape for the sitter, and managing everyday life, I am so freakin' tired I could cry.

To make things worse, tomorrow we are having a garage sale. Finances are so tight that we are having to dance to make ends meet, so it's not something I can cancel just because I am feeling run down. We need to declutter the house and we need to pay the water bill before it gets shut off on Wednesday. Yikes! The signs have been made, the items are all tagged, and the ad was placed in the paper last week. We are set. However, the idea of moving all of this crap to the garage tonight and waking up at the crack of dawn to drag it all out front makes me want to throw my hands in the air and give up! I am just so tired.

In his absence, we have endured so much:
*Aoife had a ear infection.
*Kaeleb had strep throat.
*Ashlyn and Kaelyn's hamster died.
*Ashlyn and I embarked on a turtle rescue.
*I had three sitters for three very long nights of work.
*I cleaned out all of the closets of my house AND THE ATTIC!
*Kaeleb found his way to his diaper today and drew all over the walls (something he hasn't done in MONTHS!).
*Mozart peed on the bean bag chair.
*Ashlyn and I battled an ungodly aggressive monster-sized spider and won.
*I discovered a gopher in our front yard.

*Kaedence had a tick in her hair!!!!
*The toilet clogged up FOUR times. (Really? YUK!)
*The home phone was disconnected for lack of payment.
*I was informed of a water leak in my house, which I am unable to find.

The week has been a rough on, but tonight my husband returns to share some of the burden. This weekend will be a rough as well. Not only do we have the garage sale on Saturday morning, but Ashlyn has a ton of Algebra to finish and Kaelyn has to build an electric circuit that turns on a light bulb. On Sunday, we have church, another babysitter, and three back to back soccer games. On Monday, I work, Kevin works, the kids have school, and the older monkeys have gymnastics. When do we get to breathe?

OH DEAR GOD, and I still have to do my taxes!!!

Alright, enough complaining. This is what makes this all worth while:

Soccer Begins Again

2009-03-13T08:46:00.003-04:00

Last Saturday marked the start of yet another soccer season. It marks the beginning of busy weekends, hectic mid-week practice schedule, and fancy foot work fun.

The Sea Monsters have found their soccer feet! The first games of the season was better than any game we played last year. The players that hardly engaged before, were lighting the field on fire. What a fantastic turn around! Abbi is certainly a defender. She saved many goals and even ran off a few attackers. She played with tremendous heart.

Avalanche did great. We played the same team that we narrowly beat out for first in the division last season. We have evenly matched team, which sure made for an exciting game!
Kaelyn's team, the Ravens, also did very well. The first game is always a little rusty. Unfortunately, Avalanche's game ran over and the Sea Monsters were at the same time, so a few scores were stolen from us before the team even had a coach present! How unfair is that? They did a great job pulling up from the deficit, but we did end up losing this one. With Kevin and I coaching three teams, scheduling conflicts happen. Hopefully, this is the last overlapping game we have. Whew!
Just a few clips:

Shhhh....It's a Library!

2009-03-06T10:19:00.004-05:00

I did it. I think some people wish I hadn't. But I did.

I braved the library with all six of my monkeys.

They did all of the usual library things. They got brand new library cards.

They poured over aisles of books and new titles.

They quietly colored pictures at the table.
They logged on to the computers to play educational games.

And do you know how I knew when it was time to leave?
Right about the time when the comfy reading spot became a wrestling ring and the quiet patrons from other parts of the building began gather in the children area to see what all the noise was about! LOL!

I did it. Many people are glad we left. But, I did it.

A Ray of Sunshine

2009-03-04T09:05:00.006-05:00

After a very cold couple of weeks, we finally has a day of sunshine! Granted, there was only a high of 65, but the sun was warm and very appreciated by my outdoor monkeys. We took advantage of the break in the freezing weather and ventured to the local park to burn off some of that stored up winter energy.

All of the kids really enjoyed the fresh air and freedom.

Look at this happy monkey. Yeah for sunshine!

Unfortunately, the warmth was short lived. Today in Georgia, it's currently 47 degrees with an expected high of 57. Brrrr.....

My List of 25 Random Things

2009-02-28T20:39:00.006-05:00

I am officially tagging everyone who reads my blog. (Lucky you, huh?)Heck, if I can get tagged over 26 times, I am certain many of you have already been tagged as well and just have been too busy...or too lazy...to get it posted. Oh, and thanks to Shawn for the first of those 26 tags. Not that anyone is truly interested, but here is my requested list of 25 random things about me:

1. All of the clothes in each closet of my home is colored coded according to the rainbow, and then organized by sleeve length. Each hanger is placed a finger space apart. (Seriously, my house is a wreck, but the closets are immaculate!)

2. I have read every single word in both the book of Mormon and the King James version of the Holy Bible.

3. I have been engaged three times, married twice, and divorced once.

4. I have a tattoo of a navy seal, donning a sailor hat and a dagger in his mouth, on my smiling backside.

5. I go through at least four blue Monster energy drinks a day.

6. I haven't been wrong since 1996 and I never enter an argument that I cannot win.

7. I have an outrageously exaggerated fear of insects.

8. I am married to my best friend and he is an incredible father, a wonderful provider, and a supportive and loving husband. (Now only if I could get him to pick up his dirty clothes...)

9. I have a documented "genius level" IQ. (LOL! That's right folks. Wiley Coyote, super genius, at your service.)

10. I am 32 years old, have had six children, and I can still do a back bend and the splits!

11. I am mathematically challenged and technologically inept.

12. I have three dogs, three cats, two hamsters, and a frog. I have never turned away an animal in need and will bring in any stray animal that crosses my path.

13. I get headaches in haunted places.

14. I am attracted to forearms. Not eyes, not hair, not build, nor rippling abs. Forearms. Every man I have every found myself captivated by, has really manly (and yummy) forearms.

15. I am adopted and the Sally Jesse Rafael show reunited me with my birth mother.

16. I am a terrible cook and have been known to burn water. In fact, at a bridal shower, when asked to bring in a family recipe to share with the bride-to-be, I hand wrote driving directions from her house to the local Taco Bell.

17. I lack an internal censor.

18. My checkbook sports four rotating picture of Yogi Bear and his infamous picnic basket.

19. I don't know the Octomom or her Octopop. There is not a secret club of high order multiples (that I know of, anyhow). I would not have reduced if faced with the same dilemma, yet I would have never placed myself in that irresponsible position. And, I firmly believe that she had plastic surgery.

20. I am at 69% on My Sims Castaway for DS. I only get to play while my older three girls are in Gymnastics class and my younger three are snoozin' in the car with me!

21. Although I TiVo Grey's Anatomy, Private Practice, American Idol, Hell's Kitchen, Lost, Heroes, Gary UnMarried, Desperate Housewives, and ER, my all time favorite TV show is Judge Judy.

22. I have a 35" inseam, which makes buying pants a very difficult, and expensive, task.

23. I am a thrill seeking couponer.

24. The top three on my "forgivable list" are: Denzel Washington, Eric Dane, and Matt Damon.

25. My suburban doubles as a bathtub when my husband leaves the back windows down during a torrential down pour. (So much for church this morning!)

Bubble Gum and Holy Communion

2009-02-25T16:29:00.002-05:00

This past Sunday, Kevin and I were sitting in church, chomping away on bubble gum and attempting to digest our pastor's message about "The Blessed Life." In his opening address, Pastor Tony informed the congregation that we would be participating in holy communion at the close of the service. I found this news very distressing.

You see, I am not a chick, by the traditional sense. I prefer tennis shoes to heels, sharp words to tears, creature comforts to jewelery, and pockets to purses. Not having a purse on this occasion proved to be detrimental in my gum disposal dilemma.

I saw only three choices:
1. Tear off the corner of the bulletin and place my chewed up wad inside, then stash it in my pocket;
2. Swallow the gum, only to have it rot in my intestines for the next 7 years;
3. Attempt to take communion by utilizing only one side of my mouth, while stashing my gum in the opposite cheek.

Those of you who know me personally, know that one of those three options was dismissed before being entertained. For those of you who have never had the pleasure of watching me chew up Tylenol, Advil, or antibiotics before swallowing them, I have an incredible fear of choking. Between many pregnancies, Lupus complications, and good ole fashion kidney stones, I have spent more than my share of time in the hospital. I can drive a nurse to tears with my insistence on needles over pills. If I can't swallow a pill in the hospital to save my life, I surely can't swallow my gum in church to save my soul.

Option number three originally appeared viable, until it occurred to me that my fear of choking may be a result of being orally challenged. What if I am unable to separate the gum and bread while walking back to my seat? Will I then have a disgusting mound of mush stuck in my mouth until I get home? Yuk! Will I perhaps choke on this mushy concoction? Then, the most horrific image pops into my head of my gum somehow falling into the cup of grape juice. Of course it's ridiculous, but anxiety producing none-the-less. Option three, dismissed.

Clearly, I only had one choice. After discretely discarding my gum into the church bulletin and slipping it into my pocket, I attempted to take in the message being delivered by the pastor. Tithing. 10% of your income goes to tithing. If you give the first 10%, the rest will be blessed and multiply. (See, I really was listening!) I then filled my mind with the thought of 10% less income in our house. As it is, my pockets are empty! There is not 10% to give. We are barely limping along financially. 10%? Good grief!

An hour later, we returned home with our crew to enjoy the rest of our busy Sunday afternoon. Three times I reminded my husband, who also was plagued with gum disposal during communion, to throw his gum in the trash so that it would not get washed with his pants by accident. By the third reminder, he had grown weary of my nagging.

He did throw his gum away.

Today, as I am pulling bits of chewing gum out of my already washed jeans, I am reminded of two things that I should have learned from this experience.

#1 Practice what you preach.

#2 My pockets aren't quite as empty as I thought.

The Pink Fuzzy Croc Defense

2009-02-25T12:32:00.005-05:00

Last month, I had to appear in traffic court for driving without a license on my person and suspended registration. I did have a valid drivers license and registration, so I fought that ticket and it was dismissed. It was a very dramatic court room ordeal, and the judge actually told me that he would dismiss my case if only I would stop talking! LOL! During that court appearance, I spouted off about my spotless driving record for over a decade, as means to prove myself as a responsible person and safe driver. Upon returning home, I received a notice of penalty in the mail from a red light camera. Ugh, really? COME ON!!!
So, this morning I went to court again. I sat beside all the other red light runners to have my turn before the judge. I did not come to a complete stop when turning right on a red light. I must have watched that stupid video a hundred times, trying to find fault with the system. Unfortunately, it boiled down to 1.11 secs. Had I of stopped for an additional 1.11 secs, I would have been legally correct. How nit picky is that?

By my side were several other "good drivers" who were caught for similar infractions. Then, we were all surrounded by guys in blue jump suits who were straight off the bus from JAIL! Yikes! Jail sentences, hefty fines, and community service assignments were being handed out like dish night at the movies! All of the renegade red light runners were saved to the very end, so that the computer screen could be set up for viewing our indiscretions on tape. I watched victim after victim get slammed with the same fine as I was facing, for failing to stop at the same light I had "ignored." This judge was ruthless. No sympathy. Then it was my turn.

I GOT IT DISMISSED!!! WAHOO!!!

Last night, I poured over the vehicle codes for hours on end and found a small technicality about the postmark of the notification. According to the vehicle code, the agency must notify me of my infraction via first class mail that is postmarked no later than ten days after the date of the incident. Mine was postmark on day eleven!!!

YEAH FOR DAY ELEVEN!!!

Of course, when it was my turn, I talked and I talked and I talked. I gave every reason why he should let me out of this: 6 kids, triplets, husband is federal law enforcement, poor economy, crappy weather...you name it.

I think I even said: "But I'm cute, and I am wearing pink fuzzy crocs!"

Ahhh, the fuzzy croc defense. Does it get any better than that? Then, when it appeared that all hope was lost, I presented the vehicle code with my supporting documents. Would you believe even the court officer attempted to interject? He offered the court his own interpretation of the code, which was inaccurate, and ultimately rejected. Thank you very much.

Long face after long face walked out of that court room, yet I danced my way through those swinging doors with nothing more from the judge than:

"My sympathies to your husband."

WAHOOO!!!!

I certainly learned my lesson about those tricky red light cameras. I will be much more mindful in the future. Now I'm thinking I should have been a lawyer. I might have I missed my calling. Is it too late to venture into that career? LOL!

School without tears

2009-02-19T08:28:00.003-05:00

We are still working on our morning routine, but with Kevin at home it runs much smoother. Typically, we wake up all four of the younger crew at the same time. I gather clothing and diapers and book bags and lunches, while he gets everyone fed. After full bellies and clothed bodies, Kevin and Abbi leave for school, as he drops her off on his way to work. She has to be at school at the same time the bus arrives at my house for the trio.
So, in my husband's absence, I have been waking only the trio and getting them ready, and off to the bus first, and then waking the three older monkeys and taking Abbi to school late. Even with this extra chaos, we have had several morning without ANY tears! Not even when the school bus arrives. How great is that???
Kaedence finishes with breakfast and begins to make her way to the front door.
Kaeleb pops a few more grapes in his mouth before he's ready to call breakfast to a close. (Yes, I know he is sitting on the kitchen table. We pick our battles around these parts, and this is one I will not win. Trust me.)

Aoife is waiting at the window, watching for the bus to arrive.
There's nothing wrong with a Clif's protein bar for breakfast as we are flying out there door, is there? GFCF, no artificial flavors or colors, no crazy additives, and TONS of protein. Oh, come on now, work with me!

Busy, busy, busy. Kevin has several upcoming exports for work where I will be flying solo for two weeks at a time again. We've only been doin' the preschool shuffle for about a month now, so I guess I need to just get use to handling it on my own. Why did I think it was hard when the triplets were infants? Whoever it was that said it gets easier when they are in preschool, LIED!

Yet, not a single tear was shed by any of my children. We are crusin' forward with success in our pockets!

An update from the hospital

2009-02-18T08:54:00.003-05:00

As of 3 am in Nevada, my mother-in-law was resting comfortably. The staff has been playing with various medications for pain management and it sounds as though we've found the right combination, with only minimal bouts of nausea. Her night was uneventful and we are looking forward to hearing from her attending physician this afternoon. We are waiting on an MRI to see the extent of her knee injury, so hopefully today will bring answers for that concern. She had five screws placed into her pelvic bone during yesterday's surgery and four bone fragments removed from her hip socket. Over the next few days, she will be monitored for post operative complications and infection.
This has been a terrible ordeal for my husband's family and my mother-in-law has a long road ahead of her, but yesterday was a good day. Hopefully, today will bring equally good news. Please keep her in your prayers.

My Chatterbox

2009-02-18T08:20:00.004-05:00

What a difference just a couple of months can make! Listen to this little guy. My, how he has lots to say!

The Valentines Fairy

2009-02-18T08:06:00.004-05:00

Each February in the McCarthy household, we are visited by the Valentine's fairy who decorates our kitchen for a heart-filled breakfast.

This year she brought stuffed bears, Pez candy, and giant marshmallow pops. Daddy made his traditional heart shaped pancakes, except this year they were GFCF.

Happy Valentines day everyone!

That "Red Phone" to God

2009-02-17T20:39:00.006-05:00

If you have it, we could sure use a call on our family's behalf.
On Valentines morning, while standing on the side of the road on state route 160 exchanging information with another driver about a minor traffic accident, my mother-in-law was struck by an out of control Nye County Sheriff's vehicle. She was thrown about 20 feet into a ditch, where she sustained extensive injuries. After being life flighted to the local trauma hospital in Vegas, she spent several days in the trauma ICU. Today, she underwent surgery to reconstruct her shattered pelvis and broken hip joint. With multiple rib fractures, injuries to her hip, leg, and knee, and various other physical concerns, we understand that her recovery will be long and slow.
For all that have been praying for our family, my husband and I are very appreciative and we ask that those prayers continue. We are also grateful for everyone who has offered help and support during this difficult time. If you are just learning of this tragedy, please say a prayer tonight for her comfort and health. I will update with good news as soon as I have some.

Cupcake Fatigue

2009-02-13T09:46:00.003-05:00

Four preschoolers in four separate preschool classes = four separate preschool valentine parties, 70 homemade cupcakes, 70 handwritten valentines day cards, and 8 special kid-crafted teacher valentines in two days time.

Did I mention it also equals one very pooped out mommy?

Yesterday, the triplets celebrated Valentine's Day at their school. We baked cupcakes for all three classes and assembled goodie bags with cards for each child. My older girls helped make embellished cards for the teachers and the trio "signed" their names. It was a harried morning of baking, making, and messy mayhem!

This morning, Abbi has her Valentines Day party. Last night, we assembled her valentines for her large class of children and then this morning, there were many more cupcakes to make!

Valentine's Day is tomorrow, which means the Valentine's Fairy comes tonight to decorate our kitchen with streamers, balloons, heart shaped breakfast plates, and gifts. It will be an early morning of heart shaped pancakes served by daddy, complete with whipped cream, chocolate chips, and marshmallow fluff.

(Creating fun holiday family traditions when I only had two children was much easier and cheaper than it is today, with six! But I can't stop now, right?)

Monkey see, Monkey do!

2009-02-13T07:47:00.005-05:00

My little mouse doesn't have many words. Only two, really. She isn't the great climber that her brother is. She isn't the social butterfly like her sister. She is quiet, gentle, and very sweet.

And, she has a tummy tickling sense of humor!

This child can find herself just tickled about the silliest things. Sometimes it's a Little Miss Spider episode. Other times, it's the amusing antics of a family pet. And then sometimes, she breaks into giggles for reasons completely unknown!

Today, the older girls were merely mimicking her movements and she was rolling with laughter. I watched this laughter filled game of "monkey see, monkey do" for about 15 minutes before I thought to grab my camera.

Croquet in the Cold

2009-02-12T13:25:00.006-05:00

Ashlyn, Kaelyn, and I took advantage of the morning without the youngest monkeys and decided to learn the game of Croquet. My father used to have a set when I was a kid, but my memory of the rules are a bit fuzzy and my "teacher" was quite suspect. For example, my brother taught me that you get another turn if you can whack your opponent with your ball. It turns out that you can take another turn, if you hit your opponent's ball with your ball. Can you see why I might need a refresher course? Turns out that Croquet is not a dangerous sport after all!
After searching the rules online and assembling our new set, we ventured outside to set up the course. Our one error was neglecting to check out the weather! It was ten in the morning and the temperature was only 28 degrees. In case your not familiar, that's mind numbingly cold!
To compensate for the uncomfortable chill, we took turns running outside to whack our ball and then ran back inside to defrost. We watched each other play through the window in the warmth of the house, while one player battled the elements alone. Although we were totally bundled up, it was still painfully cold.
Today, it is 77 degrees outside and beautiful. The girls have asked to pull out the set again, only this time we can play without the shivers!

Come to the Lord, just as you are.

2009-02-02T20:37:00.007-05:00

This Sunday, our Pastor gave us the DVD of our daughters' baptisms. I am very proud of the commitments our children have made and feel a great sense of comfort knowing that my faith has been handed down to my precious little girls.

Before you get all misty-eyed, allow me to point out the mispronunciation of Kaelyn's name. Much to our surprise, as none of us caught it during the actual ceremony, Kaelyn was called "Katelyn" by our loved Pastor. I guess it's merely par for the course when you are given a name that is just a little to the left of normal. LOL!

We all had a good laugh at it. I shared with Kaelyn that at my high school graduation, I was called to receive my diploma by the name of "Lee" not Lea. Yikes! Well, it happens. Can you imagine if I have a lifetime of "Lee" and Kaelyn will have a lifetime of "Katelyn", what poor Aoife has in store for her? LOL!

With Abbi crying in the beginning, Kaelyn's name snafu, and Ashlyn's stumble at the end, it is comforting to know that we are all loved and accepted by the Lord, imperfections and all!

Just Another Manic Morning

2009-01-29T07:57:00.004-05:00

I woke up to my husband ironing his suit for today's meeting, with the shower running in the bathroom. Before I even had a chance to pee, he was running around our bedroom in search of an undershirt. Of course, I am the undershirt hog, as they are terribly comfy and match all of my cute flannel PJ pants, so the lack of undershirts for their intended purpose is completely my fault. And did I happen to be searching through the clean laundry with one all snuggly on my body? Oh yes, Ma'am, I did. He finally finds one on the floor of the bathroom and starts yelling at me:

"You wore this one!! It has vanilla pits!"

Damn, got me again. My yummy scented Secret deodorant just gave away my secret! How's that for irony?

After he was put together, we ventured upstairs to wake up four of the six monkeys. Abbi wants to wear her barbie jeans and matching sweater. Where is the sweater? Who knows. It was never found and she left in a bright purple turtleneck that matched nothing and looked absurd. We searched for her socks and came up empty handed, so we convinced her that crocs were better shoes for the rain anyhow! And then there was the minor issue of her hair.

Oh, God, her hair!!!

Since it's raining anyhow, we'll just blame it on the weather...NOW GET IN THE CAR OR DADDY'S GONNA BE LATE!!!

I turned my attention to the very sleepy trio, with only 15 mins to spare before the bus is across my driveway. After throwing cereal on the train table and frantically gathering outfits for them to wear, I started the search for the shoes. WHERE ARE ALL THE SHOES??? Eventually, I found 2 rights and a left for the Carebears and both a right and left for Spiderman. Where the heck is the other left shoe???

Kaeleb wanted a banana, not cereal, so he climbed up on the counter top. Unfortunately, on his quest, he knocked over a glass of cherry juice on to his pants. As it was, I had only managed to change him and I was working on Aoife's shirt at the time. I removed him from the counter, dripped cherry juice all over the floor in the process, and stripped him down to start again on his outfit. When I look over to see what happened to Aoife, I spy a naked fandoonie smiling back at me! She managed to disrobe, entirely, while I was dealing with the banana monkey. So, it's back to square one WITH ALL OF THEM...and the bus is expected in T minus 6 minutes. Lunches aren't packed, journals haven't been signed, rain jackets are MIA, and backpacks have yet to be loaded. I have one unchanged child, one naked child, and one pantless child with a pinkish tint to his legs from the cherry juice incident.

What happened next is a bit fuzzy. I know they were changed. I know they had jackets. I know I packed something in their lunch bags. The journals...well, I forgot them. And the bus arrived.

The methodical beeping of the reversing bus was reminiscent of the pounding of the tell-tale heart.

BEEP

"Where's the left shoe?"

BEEP

"I can't find the pink jacket!"

BEEP

"Oh good God, the lunches are on the counter!"

BEEP

"WHERE THE HELL IS THE LEFT SHOE???"

BEEP

Never did find the shoe, but they are all on the bus. Time to wake up my homeschool crew and let the real fun begin...

It's A Vagina, Not A Clown Car!!!

2009-01-27T17:00:00.010-05:00

That is something I would have said, before battling with infertility or delivering my triplets. If I were to say that now, I would have to chose between the role of pot or kettle.
In case you live under a rock and have yet to hear the latest news, a very blessed mommy in California delivered our nation's second living set of octuplets. She managed an admirable 31 weeks before delivering her six boys and two girls. All of her children are doing fabulously and breathing room air! Can you believe it?
When I sat on the exam table of my trusted and cherished obstetrician and my triplet pregnancy was confirmed, I was told that I would not survive should I continue without reduction. The birth of my second child proved more than my uterus was equipped to handle, as the previous c-section scar did not fair well. When I became pregnant with my third child, I was told to prepare for an early delivery to avoid rupture. Abigeal came into our world at only 34 weeks and a portion of my uterus fell apart "like wet tissue paper" in the hands of my OB. So, with tears in her eyes, she informed me that my uterus would not hold up to the stress of three babies and that reduction was my only choice. When I told her that I would not elect certain death for a child of mine, she asked me to consider my three children already on this earth. She told me that my husband would be raising them without a mother.
As compelling as her argument was, my heart was at peace. One thing I have learned from my adventures in infertility: someone else was in the driver's seat. Meticulously administered birth control failed and a beautiful baby girl changed my world forever. Perfect, flawless cycles produced doomed pregnancies and wickedly painful heartache. One absurdly askewed cycle, determined to be fruitless, brought about blessings threefold. Twelve confirmed pregnancies and three living children. Not by my design, this I assure you. Who was I to sit in the driver's seat now? Three babies settled in and three babies would stay, as long as the good Lord permitted. My heart was set and my mind was catching up quickly.
Today, I look at my children and I think:
"Which of my monkeys would I be willing to part with now? Of them, who would have been lost?"
As you hear the various fertility specialist talk about the risks of carrying multiples and wag their finger at fertility patients for not slaughtering one or more of their unborn children, I ask you to simply reserve judgment. I ask you only to appreciate the shoes, in which you have not walked. As case in point, I would ask you to chose which of these babies should have been sacrificed?

Most importantly, I would ask that you pray for the health and growth of these eight precious little miracles. God is good and every child is a blessing. Congratulations to this new mother of many. My wish for her is a speedy recovery and lots, and lots, and lots of help in the years to come.

Happy Birthday!

2009-01-24T11:54:00.006-05:00

Kaeleb, Kaedence, and Aoife are three!

I made a gluten free casein free chocolate chip cookie "cake" in celebration. Surprisingly, it wasn't half bad!

And we had GFCF cookie dough ice cream too! Yum!

A very happy birthday to my little ones. I can't believe they are preschoolers now!

From Humble Beginnings

2009-01-22T22:33:00.009-05:00

Kaeleb, Day 1

Kaeleb, Day 6

Kaeleb, Day 14
Kaeleb, Day 25
Kaedence, Day 1

Kaedence, Day 4

Kaedence, Day 25
Kaedence, Day 39
Aoife, Day 1
Aoife, Day 4

Aoife, Day 10
Aoife, Day 13
Aoife (and Kaedence), Day 27

27 Days Old

3 Months Old

5 Months Old

6 Months Old7 Months Old

10 Months Old

12 Months Old

1st Birthday

14 Months Old

19 Months Old

21 Months Old

2nd Birthday

26 Months Old

28 Months Old

30 Months Old

32 Months Old

34 Months Old

And now, my little babies are 3 years old. The days go by slowly, but the years pass by so fast.

Three Years Ago, Today.

2009-01-22T21:30:00.008-05:00

January 22, 2006
I woke up in the hospital, at 28.3 weeks pregnant with triplets, and I knew something was different. Although I had been in the hospital for almost a month, the contractions were stronger and in my gut I knew something was not right. I had made the great hospital switch from Las Vegas to San Diego, only two days before (much to the disapproval of my father, who will probably never forget that trip!). I was settling in nicely, and my husband was set to take my older two children back home to NV while I remained in the very capable hands of my trusted and valued OB. When I woke up, I told him I was going to deliver. I told him not to leave. I told him something was wrong.

I was closely watched for the next few hours, as my contractions progress despite the drugs and intervention. Kevin went to my parents home to give them the news that he would be staying a while longer. In his absence, I started to panic. I remember telling the nurse that I wasn't ready. I remember begging her to figure something else out.

When my husband returned, we heard the news from the attending OB. We would be meeting our miracles this very evening. My trusted OB was out of town and I refused to do this without her! I was so very adamant, that the covering perinatologist called my room to attempt to calm me down. I assured him that was NOT going to deliver today. Just to be "on the safe side", he was going to come in.

I called one of my most dearest girlfriend to head over to my parent's home and care for my three children. I wanted my parents with me and there was no way I was going to appear decent for my children. I was miserable. I was swollen, drugged, and in tremendous pain. But mostly, I was scared.

The moments before those monkeys came in to my world are a blur. Nurses and doctors, noises and smells. Everyone moved so fast. When it was all said and done, I was told that 28 weekers had a "good shot" at survival, but the first 48 hours are critical.

Kaeleb Aedan, born at 10:29 pm and weighing 2 lbs 13 oz

Kaedence Channon, born at 10:30 pm and weighing 2 lbs 7 oz

Aoife Riley, born at 10:31 pm and weighing 2 lbs 12 oz

Tonight, three years to the minute, I am brought to tears over the blessings in my life. I know what a miracle my children are, and today, I celebrate that.

Kaeleb's Party

2009-01-22T21:04:00.007-05:00

Today is Kaeleb's birthday! (Okay, yes. The rest of my triplet gang share the same birthday, but only one teacher was willing to participate in a little celebration. Ugh.)
I brought cupcakes for all three classes and was delighted to hang with Kaeleb while his class wished him a very spirited happy birthday!

What a wonderful treat!!! You would never know that his cupcake is GFCF!!! Oh yeah, just call me Betty Crocker...
For the rest of the class, I made traditional vanilla cupcakes. They sure seemed quite pleased!

What a happy little mess maker!

I am terribly disappointed that I was only able to see Kaeleb enjoy his special day with his friends. I wish I had similar pictures of Kaedence and Aoife. I guess that's just the cost of having three at once. But for the record, I think that stinks.

Adventures in Pre-k

2009-01-22T20:41:00.007-05:00

Kaeleb, Kaedence, and Aoife are all attending a special needs preschool run by our local school district. Tuesday was their first day.

They take the bus to school and they take the bus home.

Astonishingly, they have done great. Kaeleb typically falls asleep on the ride home and Kaedence has required a seat change to be in a position where she can see her siblings, but all has gone very, very well.

Each morning, they wait patiently by the front door for the bus. Kaeleb is in the Autistic classroom. He really enjoys his new friends. He's still learning how to follow the rules and how to join in the group.

Aoife is working on toilet training and following directions.

Kaedence doesn't really acknowledge the presence of others, but she is working on participating in a group environment. She really, really enjoys all the new toys!

The hardest part is having three teachers and three classrooms. It nice to have quiet mornings around the house where the older girls can study in peace. I am looking forward to a relaxing weekend with all of my many monkeys at home!

Another Bloody Lip

2009-01-16T22:14:00.005-05:00

Life with my beautiful, blue-eyed little boy.
Some days are better than others. And then, some days are simply horrendous. Our day today began much in the same way it ended.

I am asked over and over again, by the plethora of specialists, doctors, and therapists who care for Kaeleb, about his "triggers." Boy, do I ever wish I knew. Sometimes, it's the TV show that ends before he is prepared to watch something different. Sometimes, it's hunger. Sometimes, it's frustration from a knocked over tower of blocks. Sometimes, it's the accidental destruction of his perfectly aligned set of cars. Sometimes, the house is too loud. Sometimes, the house is too quiet. Sometimes, it's a gaze in his general direction. Sometimes, bedtime comes before he's ready. Today, it seems, naptime wasn't long enough. Sometimes, it's everything. And sometimes, it's really nothing at all.

Medication. Diet. Therapy. Tears.

More questions than answers. More anger than pain. Another day of challenge and heartache awaits us tomorrow. But, for now, he rests peacefully snuggled into his bed, with a hopeful mommy that loves him all the way down to the tips of her toes.

Flashback Friday, 80's Style

2009-01-16T18:01:00.003-05:00

Big thanks to my parents for this photo! LOL! I most certainly was a child of the 80's.

Always Check Their Homework

2009-01-16T17:58:00.004-05:00

Dear Mrs. Jones,
I wish to clarify that I am not now, nor have I ever been, an exotic dancer.
I work at Home Depot and I told my daughter how hectic it was last week before the blizzard hit. I told her we sold out every single shovel we had, and then I found one more in the back room, and that several people were fighting over who would get it. Her picture doesn't show me dancing around a pole. It's supposed to depict me selling the last snow shovel we had at Home Depot.
From now on I will remember to check her homework more thoroughly before she turns it in.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Smith

(Thanks Erin for this one! Very, very funny!)

Security Breach

2009-01-16T09:58:00.004-05:00

The trio have switched rooms from the enclosed loft to an actual bedroom. We inverted electrical outlets, ran the TV wires through the closet and mounted it high on the wall, bolted the beds to the wall studs, roped the mattresses to the beds, removed window covering and replaced them with a room darkening film on the outside of the window, removed the light bulbs from the ceiling light, reversed the lock on the door so it can be locked from the outside, installed a security camera inside the room which can be viewed either on it's own monitor or by flipping to video 1 on my television, and put the dresser in the closet with two locks: one on the handle and a slider at the top.

We used all of the past triplet antics as our guide in proofing that room. We felt pretty good about the security. I mean, really, what could they possibly do?

To make matters worse, my son stripped himself of his PJs (which were duct taped, thank you!) and that pesky diaper, and urinated all over the clean, once folded and put away, clothing. As if I didn't have enough laundry to do today...

Scavenging for Shells

2009-01-14T23:33:00.004-05:00

Check at this beach! What a fabulous, peaceful place.

Check out that view!!!

Our family took a few hours to search the sea shore of shells and other ocean treasures.

Even Aoife is doing her part! LOL! (Back of the pack, in the orange car)

Oh my, the Georgia coast is just breath taking.

The older girls looked endlessly.

We found jelly fish and crabs, but not a lot of shells this trip. We need to try again at low tide.

Although the treasures were few, they were none the less valued and appreciated.

Just showing off their loot!
Saturday afternoons don't get much better than this.

Solutions to the Economy Crisis, Right in My InBox!

2009-01-14T10:26:00.006-05:00

According to terrybradford@cox.net, I have subsequently emerged a winner and therefore entitled to a substantial amount of Â£250,000G Pounds, Dell Pentium 4 Laptop, company T-shirt, and face cap) from the U.K National Online Sweepstakes Promo! WAHOO!!! Money and a free face cap??? Does it get better than that?

Did you know that Goolge can make you 107k in 6 Months? Apparently, resources@choombatons.com has all the information I need to get myself on the path to financial freedom! Come on folks, outta that unemployment line!! There is money waiting to be made!

And Doris Appiah from manager@b-o-africa.co.cc has a business proposal for me! She is the Head of the Accounts Department of a bank in Burkina Faso and has recently discovered a large sum of money that needs to be deposited into a US account. For my troubles, she will is offering me a generous 30% cut of the $20,500,000.00. How can I say no to that?

Perhaps the most amazing, is the Shell Grant Award I have been chosen to receive after a series of "secret deliberations"! Maybe others have been chosen as well, and they just don't know it yet? If so:
SEND ALL YOUR CLAIMS AND INQUIRIES TO
Mr. James Garry
Financial Officer Shell Foundation
Email:shellgrants00@gmail.com

And if I'm just a little too stressed from all the financial mayhem, AllisonWatson at AllisonWatson@wildcats.com would like to offer me a free jack rabbit pocket rocket! Who could ask for anything more?

These are just a small handful of the emails in my inbox today. The morning has just begun, and all ready the day is looking brighter!

A Picnic in the Park

2009-01-14T00:33:00.003-05:00

Kaelyn and Kaedence are searching for the perfect picnic table for lunch.
Kaeleb has one already reserved! LOL!

Why does this child think its appropriate to stand on the table when she finds the one she would like us to dine at??? Check out the "Happy New Years" crown on her head.

Ashlyn and Aoife walking down the pathway, totally ignoring the table hunt festivities.

Aoife finally picks the winner! Tadah! We did eventually pick a spot to enjoy our packed lunch of Gluten Free/ Casein Free goodies. It was a terrific nature break in our typically crazy days.

Hi-Tech Treasure Hunters

2009-01-13T08:26:00.007-05:00

Geocaching.

It's my family's new favorite past time. The concept is simple. Some stranger hides a Cache Box (pronounced Cash box) with a log book, writing utensil, and Swag ("Stuff We All Get"). Following coordinates sent to your mobile GPS unit, you hike to various undiscovered locations or areas of interest in search of the Cache Box. Once there, you snap a picture of the finder and the box, take a SWAG and leave a SWAG, and sign the log book. When you return home, you log your find on the website. Okay, now that you got the basics, let me just tell you...we have had a blast!!!

Our first trip took us to a rest stop of the 95 freeway. Of course it was in the middle of a forest of trees...

At this box, we took a purple necklace and left a red crystal heart. (Your swag exchange has to be value for value.)

Our second find brought us to Jekyll Island. This one was way out in the marsh, but we found it inside of a old tree!

At this box, we took a coin and left a crystal heart and a miniature magic 8 ball. LOL! There were stickers, a spoon, bug spray, a Pokemon card, and some little plastic army men. HOW FUN IS THAT???? LOL!

You can check out all the fun, and sign up for your own treasure seeking game too, at: http://www.geocaching.com/

Baptism Day

2009-01-11T21:43:00.003-05:00

The younger monkeys were baptized in the NICU, as soon as they were deemed stable. My childhood minister, who has seen my family through countless religious needs, came out of retirement to baptize my fragile infants. While half of my crew has been baptized, the other half has not. Until today!

My older three girls were baptized this morning, by Pastor Tony. They made their promise to God, and my husband made his promise to raise them in the church. It was really very sweet. I tried to get video, but it turns out that tears of joy can be quite an impediment! LOL! The service was recorded by the church, so I will see if I can get my hands on it.

Here's my children, in front of the "dunk tank" with Pastor Tony:

A Church Home

2009-01-11T20:40:00.009-05:00

Despite my Methodist roots, I was baptized LDS at the age of 16. During my high school days, I went to seminary at 6 am, faithfully each morning and I credit that time in my life with my intense study of the written word of God. After a few college years of floundering, I found my way to Calvary Chapel (of Menifee, CA) where I fell in love with the raw and flawless nature of the bible once again. Pastor Gary help me see the bible as a living document which directly related my life. The kids plugged into youth classes and we really found our home. And then...we moved.

In South Carolina, we went to church, after church, after church. Over a year of actively searching, and we never did find our church home. And, uh, we were in the bible belt!!! LOL! Fortunately...we moved again.

In Nevada, we didn't even attempt church. Ashlyn and Kaelyn attended a Christian Academy for school at a local chapel. which we really loved. Unfortunately, a very small baby and a horrendous triplet pregnancy kept us from attending any Sunday services. And then....we moved, yet again.

Now in GA, I have been swamped with the needs of my family. We struggled to find a church that could not only accommodate our very large family, but had a strong youth program and the desire to embrace a special needs child. A family from our soccer team had recommended their church to us and had invited us to attend the following Sunday. One visit, and we found our home. And, I am back to my Methodist roots.

The older girls have attended their first rock concert (Christian Rock, that is). This is the youth group hanging with the band backstage. Ashlyn is just behind the girl in the bright green shirt and Kaelyn is dead center in the blue shirt with white jacket.

Ashlyn loves the youth group. Kaelyn and Abbi attend Sunday school in the coolest environment. There is an arcade for the older kids and a huge indoor play system for the younger ones. They even have a huge twisty slide entrance! But the best part: Kaeleb LOVES it! While he is suppose to participate in the class, they permit him to just play on the playground or hang in the infant room. He can do as he pleases and he thinks it's great to be around all of those fun kids. Everyone understands that he is aggressive and they know his limitations. Instead of seeing that as a negative, he is embraced. It has been such a tremendous experience of us.

Here's a quick video of the play area with my energize bunny, crash bandicoot child just as happy as can be. We are looking at them behind a one way mirror, so we can't be seen. In addition to Kaeleb, Kaedence and Abbi are playing around in there too!

If any of your locals are interested: http://www.northglynnchurch.org/

On Dasher, On Dancer, On Donner, On Cupid

2009-01-04T00:26:00.006-05:00

On Christmas eve, we went to church for a beautiful candle light service. After returning home, we put the finishing touches on the tree...

hung the stockings with care...put the Santa key on the porch...

placed the carrots and water on the lawn for the reindeer...

and set out cookies for Santa.

Then all of the McCarthy clan said their prayers and went to bed, with strict instructions not to venture back downstairs until the sun is up in the morning.

Deck The Halls

2009-01-03T23:56:00.005-05:00

First the house... Then the tree...

Cookies for Santa

2009-01-03T13:46:00.003-05:00

On the night before Christmas Eve, the McCarthy kids were busy baking their sweet Santa treats.
All of their hard work paid off. I think Santa will leave our house on Christmas Eve just a little plumper than when he arrived!

Santa Claus Is Coming To Town

2009-01-03T13:06:00.005-05:00

We ventured out to our local mall to visit with the fat man, himself. There were four adults (myself, Kevin, and both of my parents) and we were still grossly outnumbered and out maneuvered by all the kids! LOL! The trio seemed to do well with Santa. Ashlyn and Kaelyn were "too cool" to sit with Santa, but they had no problem whispering what they wanted in their stockings! LOL!

Lost, In Translation

2008-12-28T17:37:00.003-05:00

This morning my little redhead comes running into my room with the clear intention of tattling on one of her older sisters. With her hands firmly on her hips and a stern look upon her face, she informs me that:

"Kaelyn burped, right in my face!"

To which I reply, with equally great seriousness:

"Well! You go tell her that is just disgusting and that you do not appreciate her inappropriate behavior."

She looks at me quite cockeyed for a moment and then dashes back out of my room in search of her offending sister. Within seconds, I hear her yell at Kaelyn with great authority:

"MOM SAID KNOCK IT OFF, BUTTHEAD!"

Hummm....

Operator? I think we have a bad connection.

Christmas Cards, Oh, Christmas Cards

2008-12-23T13:35:00.003-05:00

Upon discovering that our Christmas cards were still sitting on the counter after my 2009 error was noted, I trashed them all. Ugh. Then I printed up new cards, which have a picture of our entire family on them...and no date! LOL!
Christmas cards are in the mail now (Kevin just walked them to the mail box) and should be received shortly. I apologize for the tardiness, as they will most likely not reach everyone until after Christmas. But, it's the thought that counts, right?
These are the rejects that didn't make the card:

Happy Holidays Everyone!

12 Days of Christmas, McCarthy Style

2008-12-21T00:02:00.004-05:00

Oh what talent my older two possess! Look what happens when they get a wild idea and a camera! LOL!

Not a creature was stirring...

2008-12-20T16:09:00.003-05:00

except for my monkeys!

I guess I need to buy heavier beds? LOL!!!!

Ashlyn's First Performance

2008-12-20T14:55:00.006-05:00

Ashlyn has been practicing and practicing, in preparation for the evenings event. She is in the beginning band at our local middle school and is currently second chair with the flute. The band had their first concert performance and she did a fantastic job!
For your, uh, listening pleasure:

And a chance for her to show off solo:

After her stellar performance, we went out of a celebratory ice cream sundae. She really enjoyed herself and I couldn't be more proud!

It's a Sign!!!!

2008-12-20T14:48:00.004-05:00

My little guy, who doesn't yet talk, has used this sign with great consistancy to let us know that he is hungry. How awesome is that???
He found an animal cracker bag (I know he has a salior hat on his head...):

Not only did he identify it as something to eat, but he signed "Eat" in an attempt to communicate with me!!!
This isn't merely sound immitation either. This was a desire all on his own to communicate a need!!!!

Small steps. Very important small steps.

I Am Actually Very, Very Early...

2008-12-18T21:33:00.003-05:00

Yes, I am running late this year.
Yes, I rushed the picture.
Yes, I rushed the photo creation.
Yes, they have already been printed.
Yes, they have all been mailed...like THIS MORNING!!!

and then, I see the error in my ways. Can you spot my snafoo?

That's right! You all thought I was running behind! Acutally, I am just getting a jump on next year's Christmas cards very early.

Ugh. Merry Freakin' Christmas.

Just The Two Of Us

2008-12-18T21:21:00.005-05:00

Ashlyn and I treated ourselves to an evening of beauty. We went out to St. Simons Island, to a charming new salon. It was great fun to spend one-on-one time with my oldest daughter, without all the other monkeys in tow. She was so grown up!

She had her hair cut, thinned out, and styled. The stylest even taught her how to use a round brush to recreate her new look at home. We had a blast! How cute is she?

Doesn't she look so old? What happened to my little girl? *snif*

The Feast

2008-11-27T18:18:00.007-05:00

For our Thanksgiving feast, I used my NuWave oven!!! I cooked both the sweet potatoes and the turkey in one shot! Wahoo!
Here is my 3 lb butter ball turkey. It cooked in 75 mins. How great is that? With only two real meat eaters out of eight people, this was perfect!

Stuffing, turkey, gravy, sweet corn, cranberries (with powdered sugar), and candied yams! (Oh, and pasta for those of us who think that the innocent slaughter of a helpless caged turkey for human pleasure is disgusting and appalling. I just can't help myself, its not Thanksgiving unless I've said my peace for my PETA peeps!)

Thanks be to the good Lord above for our family and friends, each of whom are loved dearly.

Time to get to eatin'!

Ummm...we seem to have an uninvited guest! LOL! Jinx is smelling that turkey!!!

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Giving Thanks on Turkey Day

2008-11-27T18:01:00.002-05:00

Some thoughts from my clan of monkeys on Thanksgiving.

A very happy Thanksgiving, from our family to yours.

Shutterbug Saturday

2008-11-21T23:44:00.012-05:00

As many of my fellow bloggers will certainly agree, there are so many great snap shots of our daily lives that never make it onto our blogs for various reasons. Perhaps they are not related to an event, in particular. Or maybe they are from events that was simply passed over. Even more likely, they are just one of a million photos taken throughout our busy days that just seem to get filed away, never given the chance to show the world their worth.

While putting the photos together for our yearly family album, I came across many such photos. So, I thought I would create a post to show off a small portion of these undisplayed treasures.

Okefenokee Swamp

2008-11-21T22:53:00.009-05:00

When I made the leap to home school, I was concerned about cutting out all of the extra opportunities offered through our traditional brick and mortar public school, like art, music, field trips, clubs, etc. But, perhaps my greatest concern was the social aspect. In an effort to avoid any such negative effects, we joined a local homeschool coop. For our part, Kevin and I teach a monthly Science club.

The past three months have been spent studying swamps and wet lands. To conclude this unit, Kevin took the group to the Okefenokee Swamp. Although I stayed behind with the little monkeys, he did an excellent job with the camera!

The whole group participated in an animal introduction class, where they were allowed to touch the various reptiles.

For the slightly more brave, you could hold some of the animals in the exhibit with a little help. Kaelyn almost appears to be snuggling with the animal handler! LOL!

And then, there are the total dare devils. Ashlyn held that snake solo!

Everyone went on the train ride around the park. They were able to see the otters, alligators, turtles, and other swamp creatures from a very safe distance.

And then my crazy husband took them on a canoe ride through the swamp! Yikes! They had alligators swimming around them! Now, I get that I am city folk and all, but really? How safe does that sound?

I'm pretty sure that this hungry fellow was thinking "Yummm....lunch!" I'm certain my little redhead looked like a tasty snack, LOL!

Speaking of snacks, no trip to the swamp is complete without ice cream!! Right?

This is enough to give a mother a heart attack!!! HOLY CRACKERS that alligator is right behind my child!!! Uh, anyone else find this a little hairy? Other than Abbi, that is.

See now, much better. This is a safe distance that even a city folk could appreciate.

The girls really enjoyed their day at the swamp. In the next three months, the science club will be exploring the tide pools. That sounds much safer, doesn't it?

McCarthy Mayhem

HCA JV Basketball

Yook! A way-yo!

Parkin' it on the Island

MOSH Fun

Endless Summer Nights

The Lord's Prayer

A Visit from Vegas

Back in Session

Talk About A Head Case

Georgia Peaches at the Beach

Back to the Hotel

The Happiest Place on Earth

Taking Disney by Storm

Doin' Disney...Ghetto Style!

The Soccer Stars

Soccer Play Offs

St. Jude Trike-a-Thon

Picture Perfect Day at the Park

Brush Your Teeth...Check!

Easter Eggs

An Easter Affair

Good Friday

The Dawn Of A New Age

To the Left Coast

Aoife's Preschool Class Photo

Allergic to Soccer

A Toast to St. Patrick

Soccer Rock Stars

Who Needs a Rembrandt?

The Sleepy Sillies

My Love Returns

Soccer Begins Again

Shhhh....It's a Library!

A Ray of Sunshine

My List of 25 Random Things

Bubble Gum and Holy Communion

The Pink Fuzzy Croc Defense

School without tears

An update from the hospital

My Chatterbox

The Valentines Fairy

That "Red Phone" to God

Cupcake Fatigue

Monkey see, Monkey do!

Croquet in the Cold

Come to the Lord, just as you are.

Just Another Manic Morning

It's A Vagina, Not A Clown Car!!!

Happy Birthday!

From Humble Beginnings

Three Years Ago, Today.

Kaeleb's Party

Adventures in Pre-k

Another Bloody Lip

Flashback Friday, 80's Style

Always Check Their Homework

Security Breach

Scavenging for Shells

Solutions to the Economy Crisis, Right in My InBox!

A Picnic in the Park

Hi-Tech Treasure Hunters

Baptism Day

A Church Home

On Dasher, On Dancer, On Donner, On Cupid

Deck The Halls

Cookies for Santa

Santa Claus Is Coming To Town

Lost, In Translation

Christmas Cards, Oh, Christmas Cards

12 Days of Christmas, McCarthy Style

Not a creature was stirring...

Ashlyn's First Performance

It's a Sign!!!!

I Am Actually Very, Very Early...

Just The Two Of Us

The Feast

Giving Thanks on Turkey Day

More Gymnastics Videos

Shutterbug Saturday