Our February Frenzy!

For most people the winter is a time of solitude.  Staying inside, keeping warm, and reading a good book.  Or something like that.

For us, this month is always crazy busy.  Partially because Scott coaches two middle school basketball teams and their playoffs are one week straight with games every night.  Partially because Scott's birthday and Valentine's Day occur during February.  So, add in making 25 preschool Valentine's, 15 toddler Valentine's, 4 teacher gifts, and gifts for the boys.  Plus, birthday shopping for Scott during some of the coldest days we've had in several winters.  And that's just the start.

We managed to survive from just before Christmas through the entire month of January germ-free.  Seriously.  This is huge for us.  No doctor's visits (except for Evan's vaccines).  No prescriptions.  No ear infections.

Until January 31st when I noticed drainage coming out of Evan's right ear.  Apparently, that's the new sign that he has an ear infection, no thanks to his ear tubes.  Luckily, he only needs prescription ear drops instead of an antibiotic.  And we have those on stock, so should I notice this drainage again, I can avoid a doctor's appointment.  And of course, just when I'm feeling like we might get through this winter without any other major illnesses, Evan gets some random stomach bug this weekend.  It's either a stomach virus or we're getting payback for using Kroger brand soy milk instead of his usual Silk brand.  Washing loads upon loads of laundry and mopping the floor have made for an extra long weekend.

But, on the positive side, Sean started his first class of indoor soccer!  With Scott coaching, I was on my own taking both boys (including Evan who was sick with the stomach bug) to this huge sporting complex, but we survived.

Sean was a little hesitant at first to get started.  Especially since I didn't get to participate.  But, once coach John started running around with him, he was totally engrossed in it!  He ran over a few times for a water break, for a high-five, and to ask if he was done yet.  But, he looked like he was really enjoying himself!  And lucky for me, Evan was content just watching his big brother and watching Elmo on my phone.

Impossible lighting and juggling an umbrella stroller, winter coats, and a toddler holding my new phone made for some crappy pictures, but this one with the smile on his face is by far my favorite!  I can't wait for Scott to be able to see him play in a few weeks when basketball is done.

This week starts playoffs for Scott, evenings on my own with the kids, a day off of work on Friday for me (thanks mid-winter break!), the kids' Valentine's party at daycare, and a weekend full of activities.  Sean's soccer class and a birthday party at Jungle Java for a friend of his at preschool on Saturday and his first time attempting to ski on Sunday at Mt. Brighton.  So many firsts this winter for Sean!!

A midst all this February fun, we are also stoked to have booked a one-night get-away at the Great Wolf Lodge in Sandusky in March with Scott's family.  Considering how much fun we had last year at Zhender's, I'm loving this new tradition of going to a new water park in the winter each year.  Also, we are about to book flights for a week in June to take the boys out to Portland to see my brother and sister-in-law.  Scott opted to stay home to work on some home projects (or to have an excuse to have a week completely to himself).  So, my parents are going to come with me and the boys.  We are so excited!

At least the one benefit to being so busy this month is that it's kept our minds off this miserably cold weather.

Happy Valentine's Day!