The Not So Normal Family

Been a long time

2008-11-18T11:49:00.004-05:00

Well, Jessica is very busy so i figured i would post the pictures i could to give everyone an update. So far the kids are doing well. Shamus is kissing a lot now im told and Roman still wont go to the bathroom in the toilet everytime. Anyone got any ideas?

Well things are going okay in Iraq, and going okay at home. The holidays are coming and that means Christmas. Please remember the kids and Jessica when you make plans. I hope everyone knows Jessica still plans on attending the family events even though i am not there. If you can help out with babysitting during the holidays that would be great. Jessica will need extra time to buy presents, wrap and decorate. I know we will need a tree and im sure help with the trimming would be amazing. Last year i brought home a real tree, and if you follow the blog or if you want you can look at past blog posts, it was the best tree ever. The tree doesnt have to be real but help with a tree would be great. If anyone has questions on gifts for the kids just send jessica and email, normally i would be there to answer the questions or to do the shopping but alas i wont make it home this year.
Marissa is doing well in school. Halloween has just past and here are some photos.

John's APO

2008-09-29T21:13:00.002-04:00

353rd Transportation Company
ATTN SSG Buckley, John 5605
COB Q West Base Complex Iraq
APO AE 09351

Birthday Boy!

2008-09-05T20:57:00.003-04:00

Here are some pics from Roman's birthday party. We all had a lot of fun celebrating and Roman got a lot of great gifts. Thank you Joan and Melanie for your help with the party!

Happy Birthday Roman!!!

2008-08-25T20:07:00.009-04:00

Well the day has come, Roman is now three. We've had a low key day today because of the party on Saturday. Here are some pics of Roman over the past three years. Enjoy!

Save the Date!

2008-08-15T00:08:00.003-04:00

Roman turns three on August 25th and to celebrate we're having a party! The party will be on Saturday August 30th at 3pm at the house. Snacks, drinks, cake and ice cream will be provided. All you need to bring is your party hats! If you plan to attend please leave a comment or email me at jess_buckley@fuse.net with Roman's Birthday in the subject and how many will be attending. Please let me know by Saturday August 23rd so I can plan the food. Can't wait to see everyone!

Like Christmas in July!

2008-08-01T22:05:00.004-04:00

As everyone knows the basement is finished. We waited four long months but it's done and it's awesome. The kids are excited to have their playroom back. Even their cousin Greta had fun exploring the playroom when she visited on Sunday. Here are some pics of the kids reactions and enjoying the playroom they have missed so much.

Just another day at the pool

2008-07-25T21:33:00.005-04:00

So you have seen pictures of the boys playing in their pool before but we wanted to do it just once more before I left. Here are some pictures. We had a great time.

More camping

2008-07-14T09:41:00.001-04:00

Here is the camping movie I promised.

Father of the bride

2008-07-14T07:40:00.004-04:00

Yes Jessica's father came to town this past weekend. It has been almost 3 years since we saw him last. He had never seen the house or Shamus, but all that was corrected very quickly. I think this trip in he got the most anyone could acommplish when catching up on old times. He met his second grandson for the first time. He saw his daughter as a married woman for the first time. He saw his daughters first house. He met his son in laws parents, he met his son in law's whole humongus family. I hope he had a good time. We also met Josh his son and Rachel his other daughter. Jessica was very happy to see he sibilings and her father. We both wished we would have taken more photos but this is what we got.

Camping and 4th

2008-07-08T22:33:00.007-04:00

Okay there is a lot more to come but i wanted to put some pictures up of the week of camping.

More pictures of the birthday boy

2008-07-01T21:21:00.004-04:00

Your crazy lady!

Oh god I think im gonna explode!

Hey where did it all go?

One year down, 20 more to go!

2008-07-01T13:33:00.006-04:00

Hey Kobe heard you need a hand. Give me a call.

Well our big boy Shamus is finally 1 year old. He is walking, he is exploring and he is eating chocolate cake. Thanks Mom and Mel for putting a quick party together. We had a great time. Its been a great year with Shamus. We bought a house, we got new cars, we even got a new pet. Yes this year has been amazing. Cant wait for the next.They wait, Roman with spoon in hand.

Summer, Summer, Summer time

2008-07-01T13:23:00.005-04:00

A couple of weeks ago I ( john ) took Roman and Marissa to the park while Shamus went to the doctor with his mom. Roman and Marissa were excellent, they played, chased butterflies, went on the swings and generally explored. They were able to run and run and run. Mainly because no matter how far they get im only a few seconds from hunting them down like a cheetah on the fields of Africa. Yes they both tried to run and get away but to no avail. Enjoy the pictures.Bruce Jenner who?"Thank you Cleveland, good night!"

Fun in the sun

2008-06-02T23:15:00.010-04:00

Okay so i leave Tuesday morning for more ARMY training, that meant we lived it up this weekend. We bought pools for the kids, we watched a great MMA fight Sunday night. I was off Monday so we enjoyed the sun. We played in the pools we splashed, we even wrestled. Yeah Roman has some skills that might lead to a fighting career.
Shamus didnt like the water at first but he got used to it. After the boys took their nap the water in his smaller pool had warmed up so he enjoyed himself. Hope things are okay while im gone.

Happy Memorial Day!

2008-05-26T14:14:00.011-04:00

For Memorial Day we did what every other American does, we grilled out. The weather was perfect. We invited Dustin and Chelle and Richie and Jolene and we had a blast to say the least. Marissa and Roman played in the sprinkler during the day while Shamus stayed as far away from it as possible. John made some rum burgers, bacon wrapped shrimp, corn on the cob, baked beans and hot dogs for the kids. The food was incredible, John did great as always (he even remembered the egg in the hamburger meat haha). After putting the kids to bed we sat under the carport and drank and laughed into the wee hours of the night. The day was a ton of fun. Thank you to Dustin, Chelle, Richie and Jolene for coming over making Memorial Day a good one. Here are some pictures of the days events. Enjoy!

One great weekend!

2008-05-18T19:38:00.009-04:00

Okay so this weekend has been off and on crappy and great. The weather has given us troubles but has allowed us to have some great family fun. Friday night Jessica and I got tickets from Mel and Joe, Thanks, and we went to the Reds game. They beat Cleveland and the best part was Mel and Joe watched Roman and Shamus. YES you read that right Mel and Joe watch both of our boys as well as their daughter Greta. NO they werent drunk, we didnt bribe them. I guess they wanted a test of their parenting skills. They survived but looked very tired. I give them gold stars. The boys were alive and well and nothing was broken, or at least they didnt tell us anything was broken.
We met Dustin and Shelly at the game and had a beer with them before making the trek to our seats. The seats were kinda nosebleed but we loved them. No kids and fun. We made the most of it. Stadium beer, hot dogs, pretzels, and even ball park peanuts. Yeah this is gonna be my last game before Iraq so we lived it up. The game was great, Freel you rock, the next Pete. The Reds won. I even got a free grilling apron.

Then Saturday came. It looked like rain all day but because god loves a grillin man, the rain held off. Dustin and Shelly came over for some handpacked large mouth burgers and real hand cut steak fries. I personally made the burgers, 3 shots of rum, A1, and Worstcher sauce. That makes that perfect taste. We had fresh lettuce, tomatoes, even sandwhich cut pickles. Yes it was great. The food was great but the play time after the food was just as much fun. Roman loves to run and wrestle. I had a fun time rolling down the hill with him and chasing him all over. Even Shamus got out in the yard.

When the Cat's Away....

2008-05-07T22:26:00.003-04:00

This is just ONE of the things that happens when Roman is left for even the smallest amounts of time. He draws on Sha's head in PERMANENT MARKER! Yes, he decided to use his brother's head as a canvas this afternoon while I was making lunch. I left the kitchen for maybe 2 minutes to answer a call and when I came back I found that he had gotten ahold of a permanent marker (I THOUGHT we had thrown them all out, guess we missed one) and drawn all over the kitchen and Sha's head. Thank God for Mr Clean Magic Eraser sponges to get the marker off the kitchen, but what about Sha's head??? That, I guess, will just have to fade away. Poor Shamus doesn't stand much of a chance with Roman around. One of these days Roman will get what's coming to him.

Some Exciting News

2008-05-02T01:38:00.000-04:00

Remember way back in December when we told you about Roman peeing in his potty for the first time? Well he hasn't done it since..... until Tuesday night! For the past three nights he has peed in his potty like a big boy. He gets so excited because the chair makes music as soon as his "waste" hits the bowl. Now to get him to do it during the day and we'll be well on our way to potty training!

In other news, Shamus had been cruising like a champ and has attempted taking a few steps in the past few days. He pretty much falls right over but he's getting there. While I'm not anxious for him to grow up too fast I am really excited for him to start walking. He's also cutting his top two (possibly four) teeth and he's been eating table food really well. He LOVES bananas and will eat sometimes two whole ones for breakfast. Some cute things that he's been doing recently- my mom got him this car with a chicken on it that makes a lot of noise, well I guess he doesn't like the noises it makes because every time it starts up he puts his hands over his ears as if he were saying "please make it stop!" Also today he looked at me and said "up" and raised his arms up for me to pick him up.

These two are getting to be so big, and smart, that keeping up with them is going to be a huge task in and of itself. More pics to come!

Butterflies!

2008-04-27T08:25:00.001-04:00

Yes we took the kids to see the butterflies. Grandma Joan came with us and we all had a blast. We couldnt have done it without Grandma. The buttflies were amazing. One landed on Jessica and did not want to let go. Check your local Post paper as a picture of Jessica, Shamus and Grandma Joan should be showing up. The kids had a great time and we even went to the playground in Eden park. Roman had so much fun on the swing. He cant reach those heights at home.

25 years

2008-04-27T08:17:00.000-04:00

Yes mom and Bill reached 25 years. WOW they are old! We all had a great time trying to get a giant complete family photo done. It worked out quite nice. Greta and Shamus had fun playing together. From the looks of these pictures Greta was in charge of the play time. Both boys were plumb tuckered out when we got home.

What happens once the kids go to bed.

2008-04-27T08:06:00.001-04:00

So, the grown ups get to have fun too. Dustin and his fiance Shelly have been coming over sometimes for grill outs, hanging out and some adult beverages. Its been great to have people that arnt concerned with juice or crackers, and dont need to have their butts changed.

Playtime!

2008-04-27T07:37:00.001-04:00

Pictures are worth 1000 words. Enjoy

Marissa's Birthday

2008-04-27T07:22:00.000-04:00

Okay, since it has been awhile i will try and do my best to explain everything. Marissa turned 6 this year. Jessica took all three kids to the childrens museum and had a blast. I was gone for ARMY training so details will have to wait for jessica. They had tons of fun. Marissa got pretty soaked at the water stuff. They climbed, ran, jumped and learned. Marissa also got a bike for her birthday with the law required helmet. enjoy.

Shamus likes Oreo's

2008-04-07T09:43:00.000-04:00

Yes Shamus likes his cookies

Floodgate 2008

2008-04-07T09:32:00.000-04:00

Remember the big snow? Remember the quick thaw and following rain? Well now remember what all that water does when it has no wear to go but in my friggin basement. I went through about 140 gallons of water pulled out of the carpet, i burnt up one shop vac, Richie and I pulled up the carpet and pad, Dad and I rolled it and disposed of it. Now my basement is nothing but a dark hole with fans running. Oh yeah the ceiling fell down while i was in Minn. So not only do i need new pad and carpet, i need new walls, and a new ceiling and lighting. oh yeah my storm door has been off for a month because the wind pulled it off the hinges. Yeah the house needs work. Special thanks go out to Richie and Dad. Without you two my life we be impossible. Richie you truly are the best friend anyone could ever hope to have. Dad you have come through when i needed you and that makes a huge difference in my book. Thanks again to all who help.

Family and friends

2008-04-07T09:13:00.000-04:00

Sorry i has been so long since i posted last. I have been away and i was unable to log in. Anyway here are a few pictures from the First Annual Buckley St. Patricks day Bash. We had plenty of Irish beer and green was worn by all. Dustin and Shelly came over as well as Richie. We all partied and enjoyed some great converstation.

Some people, Shamus and Richie, just couldnt hang all night.

St. Patricks day 1

2008-03-23T09:54:00.000-04:00

Well St Patricks day came and went but for us it holds a little more significance than most. We like to party with family and friends and toast and sing..... well less singing and more toasting. The first Patricks party was at Aunt Patti's. You don't get much more Irish than this party. We had some corned beef, cabbage and the best potato soup i have ever had. Shamus had himself over a half a bowl.

Marissa met a friend and they played, got in trouble, played, tipped over a red wagon, you know the usual kids stuff. Roman well he played with cars like any good boy that cant drink, then he chased Marissa around. Both were very very good till the end when you could tell they were beyond tired.

We had a great time, Shamus was loved by all, Roman played hard outside, and in. We had a great time. Despite Dad being too sick to come it was the best St. Patricks day ever. Thanks Patti and John.

Jessica's birthday

2008-03-15T09:31:00.000-04:00

Okay i know Jess will be mad at me for posting any picture of her but it was her birthday. Mom, Bill even met us for dinner at Max&Ermas. All three kids put us all through our paces. Jessica's birthday presents weren't spectacular but they ,I hope, were useful. I got Jess a cookbook, a book about Irish people, and my favorite book of all time " The Catcher in the Rye." I hope she liked them. I also got her a gift card and I am hoping, ...once we actually get time where there is no snow storm and we can get a babysitter and organize our friends and I am not away for the ARMY, to take her out to dinner and shopping and have some fun with our friends. Might be awhile before all those factors are in line. Anyway if you get a chance just drop Jess a line. She is 24. Thanks

Snowed in

2008-03-15T08:54:00.000-04:00

So as I'm sure you all remember we had a pretty big snow here and things shut down. When you cant go outside for a few days and when you shouldn't even be on the roads you tend to find crazy things to do in the house. Well Roman decided to be daddy for a while and wore my gloves and hat. We had quite a bit of snow on the ground. I tried to shovel it at first but i let the rising temp do most of the heavy work.

Waaaaazzzzzuuuuppp!

2008-03-13T06:26:00.000-04:00

Yeah boyyzz this is your main man Shamoose and i given a shout out to all the kids at the playland...YoYoYo what up! Keepin it real. What this boy got some real food now..OH yeah! thats right i can eat green beans mashed taters and Even wait for it.........carrots! Yo yall keep it real...im out! PEACE

Bath time

2008-03-13T06:18:00.000-04:00

Well sorry its been awhile since we posted last but with 3 kids it can get very busy. To bring you up to date; Jessica and I joined a gym(fitworks) and we both love it. I am trying to get in shape to go back to Iraq. I will be gone from March 24-April 6 training in Buffalo, MN so if you want to reach me please understand i might be busy during the day. I will have access to email as i am taking a laptop. Shamus and Roman both had dual ear infections. Yes both boys both ears. But a little antibiotics and things are going well. We recently tried both boys in the bath at one time and it seemed to work very well. Roman seems to understand that he cant go crazy like he does when its just him, and Shamus can sit up and move well enough to allow for just one pair of hands to get the job done. It was a lot of fun and i hope the boys enjoyed it.

The boys growing up

2008-02-17T09:02:00.000-05:00

So i said the boys were growing and i meant it. Check out these photos.

Fun at Grandma and Grandpa's

2008-02-17T08:53:00.000-05:00

Going to Grandmas has taken on a whole new meaning for the family. Roman can tell when we are close because he recognizes the golf course. Since we visit very often roman as figured out almost all of the toys and now even Shamus is getting into the act. We thankfully have broken Roman of the cookie habit, but he still races to the pantry the second he walks in the door. Shamus is learning about the puzzles and all the cool toys Roman has moved past.

I'm ready for my close up

2008-02-17T08:43:00.000-05:00

Okay i know it has been a while since we have posted but we are busy and I'm sure anyone with kids can understand how quickly you can go from energized to plum tired in no time. Well the boys are going like wildfire, heck Marissa finished 4 bowls of cereal this morning. Shamus is pulling himself up now and starting to cruise. Roman is learning quickly that he is going to have to share with Shamus now that the baby can move.

I don't think Roman likes sharing very much so that should be fun for the next 10 years. Shamus is sleeping through the night, with the occasional wake up for bottle or fussy times. Roman though has become very independent. He likes things a certain way and if you deviate he will let you know. He has taken to retreating to his room when things don't go his way. Though his time spent there is short-lived. As seen in the photo he is very much the explorer and the camera hog.

More Milestones

2008-01-13T11:03:00.000-05:00

Shamus is proving to be one smart little cookie. In 7 months he's learned how to roll over (3 months), get up on his hands and knees and scoot (4 months), and in the past month alone crawl, sit up unassisted and is now starting to pull himself up. Even though he was the last one born and the smallest, he's determined to be the first one to do everything. He is saying some words, mama, dada and baba. He's also cutting his first tooth, and handling the pain pretty well, just like his brother and sister did. And speaking of teeth, Marissa has lost her bottom two. It's so crazy and amazing seeing them all grow and change from day to day.

Oh yeah christmas

2008-01-13T08:49:00.000-05:00

Well I just remembered I haven't posted anything about Christmas. Well first we want to thank everyone that gave any gift be it the smallest stocking stuffer to the largest over sized box. Thank you! Christmas in our house is now and always will be about being with family. We were fortunate enough to have the time to spend with everyone.

First we had Christmas with Dad and Neal and Kristin and their little ones Brayden and Brooklyn. That was one crazy night. The boys got sleeping bags. which means they are ready for camping this year and all the years to come. Marissa got a makeup kit which she loves. What little girl wouldn't want a whole suitcase full of make up? Jessica and I got Coleman camping chairs which are something we both have wished for. I got a FREE PETE t shirt and Jessica got an ARAN Irish scarf. All in all we made out like bandits. THANKS DAD.

The Nesthide Christmas came next: hold on its wild ride. Every one was there, Greta came out for an appearance, even TJ's son Andrew was there rocking the sweater vest. This was Romans first chance since the family reunion to play with Andrew who is the closest to his age. We had a blast. Roman found the ice bucket early on and the chase started. Shamus didn't do much but he did enjoy everyone commenting about his red hair. With so many baby's there it became very obvious the next generation of Nesthides are here and are poised to take over.

While the gift exchange is always exciting it was even more so this year. With the continuing stealing of gifts and my mistake of getting Melanie's ornaments stolen we had plenty to laugh at. Jessica and I are extremely grateful to Emily for stealing our candles and plates. While very nice, in a house of 3 children the griddle we stole from Beth-Ann has easily become the best gift from Christmas.

Mom's Christmas: now this one comes with a disclaimer: We weren't there for the whole time so any destruction the kids did is not all their fault. Yes Jessica got sick during Christmas and I rushed her to the hospital. She is fine just some breathing problems that went un-treated. The kids made out like bandits again. With the clothes and the blocks and everything they are ready for the new year. Thanks MOM!We love the outfits for the boys. Marissa loves her book. I even got to read a story to her from it.

CHRISTMAS DAY! So in keeping with tradition we were fortunate enough to have a large gift for all three kids. Jessica's Father Jerry got the kids a new swing set and had it shipped to us. Now i am pretty good with tools and i consider myself an expert on cars but this swing set is very very large. I called in the expert at Christmas morning amazement. DAD to the rescue. Dad came over prior to Christmas morn and took the swing set in box for and did pre assemble and organization so that Christmas morning at 5 am when he showed up we would be able to complete construction in the allotted 1:16 min. While we were one minute over with the frigid temperatures, it was below freezing, and the needed silence as to not wake Roman. I think we performed the first Not So Normal Family Christmas miracle. Besides the swing set the kids had a great haul. Roman pulled in lots of cars and trucks, he got refrigerator magnets and some ARMY men. Shamus got lots of baby toys, and Marissa got a whole mess of fashion decorating items. Jessica got some of her favorite things, and I got the new CD from the band the kept me sane overseas. Linkin Park.

Later that day was the Buckley family Christmas. Northern Kentucky here we come right back were we started from. Even though we packed a whole family into a small two bed room apartment the whole family had the best time. Roman was great and Marissa played and was a perfect angel all night. We got socks and picture ornaments. I even got a reflective vest! It was great for the kids to see everyone. Shamus got to show off his red hair and Roman got to show off his long hair.

On Wednesday of the Christmas week Jessica's mom came over with MORE presents for the kids! yes these rug rats just kept getting gifts. She brought more clothes which were sorely needed. As well as more toys and fun things to keep the kids entertained for the whole year.

All in all this Christmas was amazing. Thanks to all those who made it happen.

The next Rocky Balboa

2008-01-12T08:54:00.000-05:00

I have seen the future and I can remember the past and Roman has combined both. I remember the first couple of Rocky movies where Stallone would train with everything from a side of beef to the step of a museum. Roman was at the playground and from these images I believe he was channeling the Italian Stallion himself. Just scroll down.

More play time

2008-01-12T08:46:00.000-05:00

So as you know Ohio weather is very crazy. With warm spells during winter Jessica had a chance to take Roman and Shamus to the park across from Marissa's school. Boy did Roman have a field day. Kudos to Jessica to handle both boys and the camera.

Roman enjoys any type of outdoor activity but i think being at a playground gives him the joy we all wish we could have again. he truley runs wild.

A whole new year

2008-01-12T08:26:00.000-05:00

I know its hard to believe but 2008 is upon us and the kids are very excited about all the things they will get to do this year. One of the big gifts the kids got this year was a new swingset from their Grandpa Jerry. Yes we had one already but if you had seen it you know it was a just a matter of time before it fell apart. The kids love the new play set. With the recent break in the weather Roman and Marissa gave us a glimpse of what this summer will look like.

On the Naughty List

2007-12-20T14:44:00.000-05:00

Roman is officially on the naughty list this year. A few weeks ago my dad sent gifts for the kids, and they've been sitting wrapped and undisturbed in a box in the family room, until today. Shamus was napping and Roman was watching one of his shows, perfect opportunity to take a quick shower. Well it must not have been quick enough because when I got out I found this...

He decided that he couldn't wait any longer and dug into the gifts, unwrapping Marissa and Shamus' gifts but leaving his undisturbed. I couldn't help but to laugh, it's something I'm sure I would've done. He's just like me, he can't wait until Christmas either! This just goes to show that you should never leave any gifts unattended when Roman is around, lesson learned.

Getting Bigger and Smarter

2007-12-20T13:45:00.000-05:00

So everyday Shamus is becoming less baby blob and more mover and shaker. Today we went to his six month check up. He is very quickly reaching the milestones for babies his age and older. Right now he can follow object when they are dropped out of sight, move objects from one hand to the other, turn when he hears voices or sounds, bang two objects together, pick up small object using a raking motion, moves to get objects out of reach and is also starting to sit up unassisted. He still uses his hands for support but is doing it on his own. He's not crawling yet but boy can he move. The nurse also said that the way he curls his leg under when he's sitting is a precursor to pulling himself up. His height and weight today was 22 ¼ in and 17 lbs 15.5 oz. He's getting to be such a big boy! We're still working on the solids, he just doesn't seem as interested in them as Roman was, but we're still trying! My how they grow!

Here is a pic of Sha learning how to sit up on his own.

Oh Christmas Tree

2007-12-12T16:21:00.000-05:00

So you've seen the before and after of the Christmas tree but you haven't seen the process of getting it to the after stage. Joan and Bill came over to help out and we had quit a bit of fun. I couldn't get the hooks on the ornaments fast enough for the kids. Roman had the entire bottom of the tree covered and the ornaments were all just about on top of each other. After some rearranging it looks really good. Marissa and Roman had a great time and Shamus... well he just watched this year but I'm sure he'll be in the tree trimming action next year. It was a lot of fun and we can't wait to fill the bottom with gifts to open on Christmas morning.

This is before the chaos...

Marissa and Roman trimming the tree...

Roman's handy work...

The kids putting their ornaments on the tree...

Shamus watching all the action...

Patiently waiting for their ornaments...

Group photos!

"The best tree we've ever had!"

2007-12-11T21:17:00.000-05:00

OH Christmas Tree Oh Christmas Tree........ yeah its pretty much not like that but its close.

I bought a real tree this year to keep a tradition i love. A real tree for Christmas. Jessica and i had a few rough goes at getting the tree up straight but we got it done and wow does it look good. I will say the smell of a real tree does a great deal to up ones Christmas spirit. I do believe that this is "The best tree we've ever had!"

"Pee pee in the potty"

2007-12-11T20:58:00.000-05:00

Oh yeah another milestone for my oldest boy. Roman was in his room for nap time. No he didnt sleep a wink but he did something even better. With no coaching he took off his pants, his diaper and peed into the potty. Yes my son went like a MAN. Now im not saying this has been a regular occurence but it happened, it counts.

Milestones in a young mans life

2007-12-11T20:44:00.001-05:00

Well it has been a while since i posted and many milestones have occured. Shamus is now able to take baby food. Yup mashed and semi liquid peas. Sounds yummy doesnt it? Well i guess to him it is. Now i apologize for the photos but action shots are what i got. Next step cheeseburgers!

How fast they grow

2007-11-21T12:06:00.000-05:00

Alright we had a somewhat milestone last night. Shamus in his drive to be first at everthing took one crawl forward. Yes he is crawling...... sort of. I can remember when he was barely able to hold his head up or stay awake for more time than it took to feed. Now he gets mad when we eat and he doesnt..... just like Roman did. He has gotten so big i cant believe he is only 6 months old...... almost. If you havent seen the progression here it is.

Wedding fun

2007-11-20T07:12:00.000-05:00

Well,

I see Jessica has told you all how i tried to dance and how much fun we had but i thought you might like a taste of what we looked like. I must say Jessica was beautiful. there will be more later.

Dancing Fool

2007-11-19T10:06:00.000-05:00

This weekend we went to Cleveland for Sgt. Horner's weeding. We had a lot of fun but were very anxious to get home to the kids by the end. It was great seeing everyone and meeting people that have been very important to John. This video is just a taste of the fun we had at the reception. Its John's buddy Sopczak trying to teach him this dance called the Soulja Boy. At one point John starts Irish Jigging! Watch and see for yourself.

Roman really loves pizza

2007-11-12T09:32:00.001-05:00

Roman loves pizza and thats all you can really say. Keep in mind this video is about 30 min into dinner and Roman didnt have a nap during the day. Turn up the volume because what he says is priceless. Enjoy

Everything is Always Changing

2007-11-12T08:47:00.000-05:00

So here is just a quick update with the Buckley clan. Marissa will be getting a visit from the tooth fairy soon because she has her first loose tooth. Seems like just yesterday she was getting her baby teeth. She also got her first report card about a week ago. She's making progress in all of her subjects. Roman is getting bigger and smarter every day. Just yesterday John went into the kitchen to find that Roman had gotten a box of cereal down from the top shelf of one of the cabinets and was eating out of the box. His vocabulary has quickly grown. He attempts to say almost everything you ask him to and gets it right most of the time. He's also saying short sentences like "thank you, mom" "yes, please" and my favorite "daddy poo poo in the potty". He's learning how to say the name of the things that he wants instead of pointing and yelling. Shamus is also getting really big, he was 15.2 lbs at his four month check-up last month so it should be interesting to see how big he will be at the six month check-up. For as small as he was at birth (compared to his big brother and sister) he is quickly catching up. He is rolling over with great ease and gets around pretty quickly that way. He is quickly approaching the crawling stage. He can already get up on his hands and knees and rock back and forth. So it looks like he'll be crawling by Christmas! He is also, like John mentioned before, eating rice cereal which is giving us longer periods of sleep at night, but he still gets up to eat in the middle of the night just like his big brother! He won't be sleeping through the night for a while but I'm OK with that. He smiles and giggles a lot now and coos a lot also. John and I will be going to Cleveland this weekend for a wedding. We're really looking forward to have some time away from the kids and just be us. It should be a lot of fun. This will be the longest I've been away from either of the boys so it should be some really good R&R for me, but by the time Sunday rolls around I know I'll be ready to see my boys! I guess thats all a day in the life. Enjoy some of the Halloween pictures of the kids.

Happy Days

2007-11-02T07:48:00.000-04:00

Okay so its been a while since I posted last and there has been a lot going on. Since my last post we have a new member to our extended family. Welcome Greta Hansbauer. She is a beautiful girl and I know Shamus looks forward to helping her create mischief at holiday gatherings for years to come.
We have had a major holiday…. In kid lives…. Halloween. Yes all three kids had costumes and all three went out to get candy. Shamus was more into the people watching then the gathering of sweets. Roman and Marissa enjoyed running from house to house receiving sugary treats. Then of course running to the next house as if in some sort of competition with every other kid in the neighborhood. Roman was an Indian, Marissa was in all to true form as a devil, and Shamus like his father was an ARMY man.
Roman and Marissa both made out with tons of candy. Of course some was enjoyed that night but with dental bills going up we will ration this bounty out over time.
Shamus and Roman, have grown in leaps and bounds. Shamus is eating Rice cereal now which has given him longer naps. Jessica is very happy about that.
Jessica and I are looking forward to Thanksgiving and Christmas this year. With so many little ones showing up everywhere it should be an exciting time. Pictures are abounding so please check back over the next few days to see more of the family.

Meet the newest Buckley

2007-09-10T14:51:00.000-04:00

So here is something I thought would never happen in a million years... we got a cat. It took me completely by surprise. John has been telling me since the day we met how much he dislikes cats, yet it was his decision to get her. She is the cutest, sweetest little thing. She just loves to curl up in your lap and be petted. So here is how our newest edition joined our happy little family. John’s boss and his family were at his parents’ house when this little kitten came up to them. When they went to a neighbor‘s house trying to find where the cat belonged, they found the mother and a sibling on the side of the road. Not being able to take the cat in themselves because his wife is allergic, they put it in a carrier and left it by a tree hoping the owner might come looking for it. When they came back the next day there were two other kittens laying next to the carrier. After that they felt they had to take them in a find them good homes. At first, I have to admit I thought John was messing with me about getting a cat but he wasn’t. The kids love her. They are constantly looking for her and petting her. Roman is still learning how to be gentle, he keeps pulling her tail. He loves chasing her around and talking to her. She isn’t the most playful thing but she is very affectionate. She follows us around the house meowing and has slept next to me every night since bringing her home. We haven’t been able to come up with a name for her yet, so if anyone has any suggestions PLEASE share them. I’ve been calling her Kitty for the time being. Looks like our family just got a little bigger…

Well we made it

2007-08-27T19:02:00.000-04:00

Okay,

So we made it two years with the wrecking ball on two legs that is Roman.
I first want to thank everyone who came to Roman's birthday party and those who could not be there thank you for your cards and gifts. The party went off without a hitch and was a great time for all. I enjoyed seeing my son in the company of those who have meant so much to me for so long. Jessica and I loved having everyone over to enjoy our home and our children. What we didnt enjoy was cleaning it up. Did anyone see the living room after the presents were opened. Wow! I really am rethinking the gift giving versus the gift card thing. We loved the range of gifts Roman recieved. He got blocks tools music makers and puzzles and books. Which then in turn gave us all types of packaging and wrapping paper. I wouldnt trade anything but I would like to own the patent on wrapping paper.
Roman loves all of the presents. He has played with everything, which means we have stepped on almost everything. Each book has been read and reread. Each car or truck or submarine has been opened and rolled and smashed and the noises have been consistently played and replayed. Tools have been used to build and blocks have been stacked. I think that although i havent seen everyone in the world, i can still say Roman has the best family and friends in the world. Jessica and I are so very grateful to everyone.
Well now we have both Shamus and Roman and trust me with Christmas right around the corner we are just looking forward to giving our sons every oppurtunity to say thank you and to enrich your lives in the way only they can. Thank you to all those who brought food and gifts. A special thank you goes to Joan AKA "mom" you made the day.
Thank you to everyone

Getting smarter

2007-08-01T12:58:00.000-04:00

Well,
Its official Roman is a genius. He has already spoken a whole sentence and can understand most of any statement made to him, especially ones regarding food. Roman can stand up his action figures so they actually remain standing. I know adults who have a hard time doing that. He has his favorite books, to include “The itsy bitsy spider”, “I crocodile”. He has his pajamas and knows what that means when they are put on. He will ask for more now when he wants extra of whatever he is eating or drinking. He knows where all his snacks are located, and even which cereal type he wants on any given day. He has his own show “Peep” which is a cute show about a small chicken, a small bird and a small duck. He loves to watch Peep and thank god for DVR, because Peep is always on hand. His intelligence has not only manifested itself in his “needs” like food and drink but he loves to go for a “walk” mostly he rides in his stroller but he seems to be at ease when he is watching the world roll by. He knows his; eyes,ears,teeth,toes,shoulders, and many other body parts. He even knows how to play catch. Yes we were playing catch this weekend. He didn’t catch anything but when the ball was ready to be thrown and in the air he held his hands up in the attempt to catch his football. He would then bring me back the ball and if told to go long he would back up further. If asked if he was ready he would say very distinctly “uh-huh” or “no” then he would back up and say “uh-huh.” I would say he is well on his way to playing football for Ohio State and majoring in either law or medicine.

Getting out and growing up!

2007-07-30T07:39:00.000-04:00

Well,
This weekend was a lot of fun. Jessica and I we to a corn hole tournament held by an ARMY buddy of mine. Yes I did come in second. My team was second out of 22 teams. Yeah me! But the thanks goes to Joan and Bill. They watched Roman on Saturday night while Jessica and I went out and while mom was tired Roman and her were both alive. I know he had a great time and mom said he was a good boy. Big thanks to those two for giving us that time.
Roman on Sunday morning did something I have been waiting for. He said his first sentence. It was breakfast time, sun shining through the windows and Jessica and Shamus still sleeping. I took Roman to the kitchen and asked him what he wanted for breakfast. Well he said “I want erios” he meant cheerios, but it was his first complete sentence. He meant what he said. No grunting for yes, and no screaming and pointing. He is learning more words and there uses.
Shamus is holding his head us for much longer periods and Roman is talking with regularity. So I would say the growing up has really started.

In the beginning...

2007-07-26T07:16:00.000-04:00

Okay,
So this is something I have read about and something I have wanted to do for a while. I want to share with my family the daily life that Jessica and I share with our children. We are by no means a normal family and we enjoy that simple fact. With the amount and type of children we have there is never a dull nor repetitive minute.
To bring everyone up to speed, Jessica and I have been in our house for about 3 months now and we love it. It is in the city of Hamilton, and not to far from where I went to high school, Stephen T. Badin. Our oldest is Marissa is 5 and next is Roman and he has one month left till he is officially in “the terrible two’s” then comes our youngest and thankfully quietest.... for now Shamus.
Roman has taken to understand everything we say but only wanting to say “cookies” yes that and Kool-Aid seem to be what he wants most in this world besides going outside to play. Shamus just loves to eat and spit up. It seems to be an overwhelming display of how much he can eat and then the different ways it can come out.
We would like to let everyone know to save the date of Saturday August 25. Roman is turning 2 years old and we would like to invite you all to his B-day party at our house. Yes he is getting large and powerful. Over the weekend he knocked over Marissa and held her down. I guess he is just practicing for the NFL.
Our house is coming along fine; we want to ask for ideas for a deck/patio. I know those who have been to our house have heard of our plans to build a deck, but we want some ideas from those who have decks. I don’t pretend to be an expert and I wont assume what I want is the best for my house. Please if you have opinions or options let me know.
I hope to keep this blog updated with fun stories and information about the crazy never normal life of the Buckley’s. I hope you enjoy.