life and times of the acklin army

2012-03-08T00:47:00.001-05:00

Dear George,

You are almost 7 years old. Today we finalized plans for your birthday party. Gone are the days when having people over to the house for treats was enough. Now you want to be entertained somewhere! What do you mean you don't want to sit around a table and make a craft? Sigh . . . glow-in-the-dark monster themed miniature golf it is. So anyway, your sappy mama is going through your baby pictures and feeling very sad. This is what pushed me over the edge. I love the little boy you are now, but I sure miss that baby too.

Love,

Mom

Photo by Ruth Hendricks, 2006

2012-03-06T21:14:00.000-05:00

Dear George,

I walked into the sunroom today to find you in your sister's highchair. You told me that it was a very comfortable place to sit while playing Wii. There are no words.

Love,
Mom

2012-03-03T21:08:00.002-05:00

Dear Caroline,
Let's post a picture for Aunt Elayna. She wants to eat your checks and your wrists. This picture is going to make her very hungry. Hee, hee.
Love,
Mom

2012-03-02T13:00:00.002-05:00

Dear Caroline,

You rolled over today for the first time! You were 4 months, 2 weeks, 4 days, and 1 hour old. I left you (on your back) on the floor in your room for a couple minutes, and when I came back - ta da! On your belly! You just looked at me with huge eyes as if to say, "What in the world just happened!?" I pulled out one of your arms which was stuck and then ran to grab my camera. Sorry love, I can't help myself. You are just too darn cute.

Love,
Mom

2012-03-01T00:44:00.001-05:00

Dear Boys,

I'm not going to lie, the house is very quiet when you leave to go to school. I really like quiet. George, you know what I'm talking about. You scream everything with great enthusiasm. Everything. Screaming. Sort of screaming/singing really. Enthusiastically. "THE PENGUINS WON IN A SHOOTOUT!" is appropriate, but "GENERAL TSO'S CHICKEN MAKES ME THIRSTY!" is not. Just say it in a normal voice. You know, General Tso's chicken makes me thirsty. Period. You know what George, I should call you Oprah. General Tso's CHIIIIIIIICKEEEEEEEN! So anyway, you precious boys leave for school and in the quiet I stand at the front door and watch you walk with daddy to his car. Daddy rolls down the windows, honks and we wave and blow kisses. For a second I feel sad that you're leaving me and going out into the world. Then I remember . . . it's quiet! Or rather, (Oprah voice) IIIIIIIIT'S QUIIIIIIIET!

Love,

Mom

2012-03-01T00:13:00.002-05:00

Dear Caroline,

Today I put you in your big girl high chair, pulled out one of the boys' old mesh chewy things (what are they called?) and put a piece of frozen mango inside. Caroline, what are your thoughts on frozen mango?

Love,

Mom

Thumbs up.

Oh, wait.

No, it's bad mom. It's bad, it's bad!

How could you do this to me?

2012-02-19T20:11:00.000-05:00

Don't. Grow. Up.

2012-02-19T19:51:00.002-05:00

Caroline is 4 months old!

2012-02-14T12:51:00.000-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day from the pet corner.

2012-02-11T14:32:00.001-05:00

The boys' Valentine's Day cards for their classmates. Google eyes and photos courtesy of the talented Ruth Hendricks. Voila!

2012-02-08T08:49:00.004-05:00

Dear George,

Yesterday you were at school 25 minutes when the inch I had given you became a mile. When I told you to have the school call home if you weren't feeling well, I really meant to say if violently ill have them give me call. Not mildly or moderately - or in your case - not sick at all. But the school called and off I went to rescue you from another day of education. You played deck hockey, you got a haircut, we washed the car, we went out for lunch. Just another beautiful day in paradise. Oh, and had you actually been sick, you would have been in big trouble for this little scene.

Love,
Mom

2012-02-02T09:30:00.000-05:00

Dear Caroline,

Lately you have been repeating the same story over and over. I sure wish I knew what it was because it must be good. You laugh every time. Also, I thought you hated hats. I was wrong. You hate hats that are too small for that Acklin noggin. So I bought you a 5T hat, and now we're happy.

Love,
Mom

2012-02-02T09:19:00.004-05:00

Dear Teddy,

We all know about your devotion to camo. You've added a recent twist to your wardrobe, though - spy wear. Monday morning you told me that you didn't want to wear the green and brown outfit I had waiting for you in the kitchen. You told me you wanted to wear "all black just like a spy." I asked you why a spy, and you told me, "There is a spy club at school and we spy on the girls. Spies wear black." So you wore all black, down to the socks. Tuesday came and you wanted to wear the same outfit. I said no, and to at least let me wash it for Wednesday. Here you are Wednesday after school. Teddy, you have a flare for fashion my boy.

Love,

Mom

2011 in pictures.

2012-01-23T00:19:00.004-05:00

Before moving on to 2012 I feel like I need to do a quick recap of 2011. You know the saying, if it's not on Facebook or Twitter or on a blog IT DIDN'T HAPPEN! And I can't have my kids one day asking me what happened to the year 2011. The questions they would ask! Mom, were we abducted by aliens? Did we just sit in our rooms for 12 months? Were we in a coma perhaps? I can't have this. 2011 did exist. 2011 was busy and fun and good. 2011 slowed down in some ways, and took off in others. 2011 was a year of blessings, and the best of all, a precious baby girl. So here we go! Without further ado, Acklin Army Highlights of the Year 2011 (drum roll, please):

George turned 6. As I write this 9 months later, he already looks twice as old. They grow too fast.

Teddy turned 5. He invited all the little troops from his pre-school class to the house for a military-themed celebration of his birthday.

At around the same time, George brought his uncle Dan to school for show and tell:

Uncle Dan was a huge hit. Now whenever the boys are allowed to bring something special to school they always want to bring their uncle. Here's uncle Dan in Teddy's class:

The boys played together for the same baseball team - the Greenfield Muckdogs. They were both fantastic. I love baseball. Baseball was designed with mothers in mind. We also enjoyed many days cheering on our Bucs at PNC Park. (I have a good feeling about 2012 . . .)

We spent Easter week in South Carolina with Nonnie, Papa and Aunt Mo. We got our beach "fix". George and Teddy also traveled with their Kekes and Pap to Florida later in the summer for more beach fun.

Sullivans Island, South Carolina

Ft. Sumter, Charleston, South Carolina

Okay. Football. Oh, my. I thought I had more time before jumping head first into the southwestern Pennsylvania world of football moms, but it has already begun. And it was a full time job from late July to late October. George played QB and Teddy was a lineman. The experience for me ran the gamut of emotions. In fact, I cried (from fear, mind you, not happiness) at their first game. All I remember is seeing Teddy hit the ground, tears coming to my eyes and Kevin asking me if I needed to go for a walk. Go for a walk? I wanted to scoop up my baby and walk right home! But we held it together, and we all toughened up as the season wore on. Okay, so I toughened up as the season wore on. The boys did great. It was a huge commitment and they made us very proud.

Ted - #8

George in action

The boys also participated in a Steelers-sponsored football camp in July. I cried here too, because it was so dang hot. I mean it too. I really did cry.

You can just see the haze in the distance. I'm sweating just thinking about it.

Hot! Hot! Hot!

Kevin was sworn in to the United States Supreme Court Bar. We took a trip to DC for the occasion. Here is a group photo of the attorneys sworn in that day. Kevin is the tall guy on the right side, and Justice Sotomayor is in the red suit.

Do I pay my children to behave themselves?

No, no, no, no, of course not.

Well, sorta. Let me explain. During the actual swearing in ceremony we were ushered into the Supreme Court chambers where all 9 justices were present. Children were not allowed inside the chamber, but I begged (pathetically) to make an exception. The scary guard said to me, "Are your children well behaved?" I said, "Oh, God, yes. You won't even notice they're here." That's when I pulled out the cash, along with some very serious threats. Something along the lines of being sent to jail if we make even the slightest noise. We couldn't bring cameras inside the chamber, so I have no pictures of poor Teddy so petrified of being sent to jail that he just closed his eyes and fell asleep in my arms. No one will be asking me to write a parenting book anytime soon, I'm sure.

Here is Chief Justice Roberts in the reception room area saying, "Erica, I would really like to know your opinion on . . ." Oh, wait, I forgot. He was actually telling a story about a painting behind me. You can see Kevin behind him. I was so proud of Kevin and so happy the boys and I were able to witness this occasion. Oh, and if I had half the hair the dude to Kevin's right has, I would be one extremely happy woman.

July was Baby Moon time! Kevin and I traveled SOLO to Bermuda for a few days in July for our 7th anniversary. It was interesting being 6 months pregnant and on an island in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, but thankfully I was feeling great and we really enjoyed it. Two things I learned about Bermuda. #1) British accents make anyone sound classy. #2) Knee socks, dress shoes and shorts look shockingly cool on a man. You don't believe me, do you? It's true! It's the dress code there, and it sorta wore on me by week's end. Bermuda was so restful and peaceful and serene . . . I want to go back. Like, now. Kevin's knee socks are on standby.

Knee socks! We need to bring this look to the states.

Did we shimmy our way onto a cliff to watch a sunset? Why of course!

Just had to share these pictures of the boys' first day of school. My little boys are getting big!

I think, no, I know this is how I'll see George even when he's 30.

He'll get married someday and this is what I'll see on the alter.

When I took this picture I was starting to get a little teary-eyed.

At this point the tears are totally welling up in my eyes.

And now I'm bawling.

Then Kevin and I walked down the hall to leave, but not before peeking into George's classroom (which is next door to Teddy's). And this is when I got my comic relief':

Apparently parents are very embarrassing.

Then came the baby! Miss Caroline Mary Candace. October 13th, 2011. 8 lbs, 15 oz, 22 inches. Referred to as an "amazon" by her pediatrician. I'm sure she'll really appreciate that someday.

The night before she was born. We were so excited!

First picture of many!

The boys were really, really excited!

George's class made Caroline a card that he brought to the hospital. I know that both boys felt enormous pride, and felt so special themselves. It was by far the most exciting thing to happen to us. And she sure is one lucky little girl.

When I came home from the hospital Candee had tied pink and white balloons to our lamp post, and mom and dad helped the boys put this welcome home sign on the front door.

For a Thanksgiving project at school, Teddy wrote that he is thankful for his new sister.

Caroline's baptism day.

Our annual trip to Flemings Tree farm always includes a picture in front of this growth chart.

Caroline's Christmas dress. First thing I bought when I found out we were having a girl.

Christmas 2011. The before.

Christmas 2011. The after. Kevin took the boys shopping for me and Caroline a few days before Christmas. He told them to pick out anything they wanted - anything they thought she and I would like. So the boys decided on a little red dress for Caroline, and ballet flats and knives for me. I'm raising some good (thoughtful) shoppers!

Just a few more pictures:

Apparently George is not claustrophobic. Nor does he have an issue with bad smells.

They're nuts. This is when we start yelling, "JUST STAND STILL FOR TWO SECONDS FOR PETE'S SAKE!"

Another action photo. Here it's a rainy summer day. I guess the weather sorta brought out the animal in George. Makes me think of doing an entire photo montage of them in this blurry state. It's pretty acurate to what I see at any given moment. Just a blur.

Love hurts, Caroline.

Speaking of smelly.

And finally, after many days of fidgeting with a broken TV I finally blurted out, "I could seriously take a baseball bat to this darn thing!" Well . . . off it went to the basement for a beating.

Okay, I think that about covers the year 2011!

See kids, 2011 did exist and no one was abducted by aliens.
Love, Mom

up, up and away.

2012-01-15T13:04:00.001-05:00

on my mind today.

2012-01-13T23:27:00.000-05:00

miss p.

2012-01-08T01:21:00.000-05:00

I can't believe it's been almost a year since I've blogged! One small, snuggly, sweet-smelling reason for the preoccupation - this precious little love bug, Caroline. Or "Miss P" as in "pretty" as her brothers like to call her. More on her soon!

i heart valentine's day.

2011-02-14T18:45:00.000-05:00

Valentine's Day is sweet. I like to dress up the kitchen in red and pink (the only time of year pink is remotely deemed acceptable in this house) and spread out an assortment of chotchkies for the men in my life to see when they wake up in the morning. One of Kevin's gifts was hand-stamped brass collar stays. Aren't they nice? The boys each received books geared toward their interests - soldiers and sports. I'll let you guess which book went to which boy.

Just to give you a hint, as I write this Teddy is watching the movie Patton with Kevin, and George is windexing his hockey goalie pads. Yes, windexing.

And they each got a little box of gag gifts: fart whistles, toilet squirters, fake chewed gum, you get the picture. Don't you feel the love in the air? Ah . . .

The boys both had parties at school today and brought Valentines for all of their classmates. George also had to create a box for his. The planning for this is where the insanity began. First, the Valentines:

I found the idea here. They were very easy to make and turned out so cute. I just love these.

And secondly, George's Valentine's Day box. Kevin teased me to no end for a week over this box. The truth is (believe me) this was all George's idea. I only assisted with the execution. It's true. George was just beside himself to get this thing to school to show his buddies.

See the goal posts? All George . . .

One last thing. Valentine's day gear is well, girly. I don't have any of those. What's a mom in my situation to do? Make my own gosh darn shirts, that's what!

Bones, hearts . . . a little more manly. All it took was some tape and little bleach and maybe 20 minutes. Wa-la! Teddy's teacher told me to make a bunch on sell them online. Hum . . .

While I'm mulling over my prospects as a seller of tacky holiday gear, I hope you had a lovely Valentine's Day. Now I'm off to celebrate with the mister! XO!

they're fearing the beard in the white house too.

2011-02-03T10:04:00.000-05:00

christmas '10.

2010-12-28T17:50:00.002-05:00

Is Christmas really over? Where did it go?

So fun to share the day with two little people who truly believe. I expect there won't be too many of these extra-special Christmases ahead of us, and we thoroughly enjoyed every single ~~threat that if they didn't get their acts together Santa wouldn't come~~ stocking chotchkie, countdown, letter, question and cookie crumb left behind. The boys were totally spoiled. They even went to see the Pittsburgh Ballet Theater's Nutcracker with Kekes and Pap. I didn't even get to see it! Teddy said to me that the "Cracker" was great because there were soldiers. Of course.

Earlier in the month we hosted a holiday reception at our home with Kevin's colleagues on the 14th Ward Committee to benefit a local organization - Community Health Services. Kevin is a proud graduate of their head-start preschool program in Oakland 107 years ago. It was fun getting the house all pretty for a wonderful cause. The house was packed with old and new friends and even members of City Council, and everyone was so generous and creative in their giving. CHS was able to fulfill every single client's holiday request and we were so proud to be a very small part of that.

Oh, and here is Mr. Enthusiastic also in the holiday spirit.

The tree trimmed, decorated and ready for Santa's arrival.

We took Doris from Loris with us to Mass on Christmas Eve.

I had to tell her several times to keep it quiet.

Santa (surprisingly) put the boys on his good list.

And he left a few things under the tree too.

The soldier was thrilled with his loot -

camo, weaponry, survival and spy gear.

He's ready for combat.

And ~~Kevin~~ George will be doing this for the rest of his life, unfortunately.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Love,

The Pittsburgh Griswalds

(Note to self: Next year Kevin is totally wearing a dickie.)

v is for very.

2010-12-23T19:36:00.001-05:00

George had his first school program this week. I was so excited - my first as a mom. He had to recite a line that we've been practicing for several weeks, "V is for very!" The kids spelled "Advent" and they all did very well with their lines. I was nervous, but he didn't have a care in the world about the whole thing. At his age I would have rather jumped off a cliff than speak in public. I still feel that way for that matter. George is his father for sure.

The Acklin crew waiting for the program to begin.

Kiernan, Kekes, Trey and Teddy

(there is always one screwball in every crowd).

My man - cool as can be.

Cousins - all dressed by their grandmother. She really can't help herself. She said she went to 127 different stores to assemble this collection. She did a good job. But she really can't help herself.

After the program we had pancakes at Pamela's in the Strip, then we stole Trey for the day. We made cookies. And the boy knows how to mug for the camera.

Soldiers like to bake too.

Maybe we'll leave some of these out for Santa tomorrow night.

n.y.c.

2010-12-19T22:12:00.000-05:00

Last week Kevin and I traveled alone to New York for a few days. I had been there only once before and it was a whirlwind visit where I didn't see much of anything, and it was not during the Christmas season. I've always heard that New York is magical this time of year, and everyone is right - it really is very special.

The first thing I saw when we drove in was the Statue of Liberty. I couldn't help but think of my ancestors who saw her too.

Partial view of the city skyline. Driving in I thought to myself, "We're here!" when I saw all the buildings in the distance. 20 minutes later and it seemed like they were still the same size! Their magnitude is misleading! Eventually we made our way into the city and took the Lincoln Tunnel into Manhattan. We weren't there 5 minutes before this pulled up next to us at a red light. Already I'm thinking this is my kind of place.

We're not in Kansas anymore! Creepy!

Then we checked into our hotel which was located a block off of Times Square. Here's the view from our window:

After putting down our bags I immediately started badgering Kevin to show me all the sites. I think we walked 895 miles that weekend. Here's what we saw:

Times Square

Rockefeller Plaza

Macy's on 34th Street

Radio City Music Hall

St. Peter's Cathedral

Sushi!

Rockefeller Center

You're fired!

FAO Schwarz

If nothing else that weekend I wanted to go here. On the weekends I heard that people stand in line to get inside. It was very modern and not what I expected, but the store's long history was what drew me in. We managed to leave without doing too much damage - an ornament, a science experiment kit and two children's books about New York. And of course we had to see the piano that Tom Hanks made famous. I tried to convince Kevin to dance on it and he wouldn't do it. Had I not walked 895 miles that day, made I would have done it myself. Next time!

FAO Schwarz

The store fronts were all amazing. Above is Tommy Hilfiger with a huge red, white and blue (and black) bow.

Cartier was my favorite. The store was wrapped like a massive present.

Gorgeous.

Tiffany & Co. had two handsome greeters standing outside wearing scarves in the Tiffany blue.

Looking at the Tiffany windows made me think of this image of Audrey Hepburn:

It was a fun trip. We'll have to do it again next year . . . especially the part where we didn't bring the darling children. We'll wait until they're old enough to walk 895 miles.

guess where.

2010-12-11T22:48:00.000-05:00

Guess where we have been the past few days!

tis the season.

2010-12-06T21:00:00.002-05:00

First off, Thanksgiving. It was wonderful, especially because I have been blessed with a father-in-law who every year does all the shopping and cooking. All of it. And it's delicious. The only thing I have to do is have a cleanish house and set a table. I didn't take too many pictures this year. It probably had something to do with all of my ~~drinking~~ hostessing.

The after picture.

The kiddie table; complete with wine glasses of sparkling juice.

They loved this! Hilarious.

Now moving on to Christmas.
We picked out our Christmas tree last weekend.

Flemings Tree Farm, Indiana County, Pennsylvania

"Christmas Tree Capital of the World"

It was very cold and a little snowy. Perfect day.

Here is our tree before we lobbed it off and hauled it away.

Kevin, silly boys, tree

The boys love tools. What can I say.

Not sure what that was all about . . .

2010

And let's take a walk down memory lane . . .

Happy Holidays!

before and after.

2010-11-24T23:13:00.001-05:00

Okay, so I wanted to paint the dining room red the other day (it was only *ahem* coincidence *ahem* that Kevin happened to be away on business) but it didn't happen. Maybe it something to do with a certain person begging, pleading, demanding, (did I already say begging?) to not touch one wall with anything remotely red. So to make the long story short we settled on GREEN.

Dining Room Before

Just say it - nice room, but completely boring. It only took me a mere seven years to garner within myself just barely enough interest to begin the transformation.

Hold on . . . someone wants to say hello . . .

Alrighty then, back to the green room . . .

Isn't it purdy?

Maybe in another seven years I will have curtains on the windows. Maybe.

one creative mind.

2010-11-14T09:27:00.001-05:00

George came home from a Saturday art class at the Center for the Arts with this picture.

Interesting, isn't it? Frightening maybe, but interesting.

a salute on veterans day.

2010-11-11T21:12:00.000-05:00

From a likely future serviceman,

to all our servicemen and women past and present - THANK YOU!

jump.

2010-11-10T23:21:00.000-05:00

Backyard fall clean-up with the youngest boy.

a visitor is coming.

2010-11-09T20:40:00.004-05:00

Her name is Tooth Fairy.

Oh, and George wants to know who surprises the Tooth Fairy when she loses a tooth? Between that and how does she get into the house, and what if she forgets and what does she do with the tooth after she leaves, I'm starting to feel puzzled myself.

class is in session.

2010-11-09T12:56:00.002-05:00

Advanced Home Economics 101:

How to Freak Out Your Spouse Who is Away on Business

Email them pictures as illustrated above with the subject line, "Hey Honey ~ Which one do you like?" Muahahaha!

Next class: Selling Your Spouse's Crap on Craig's List When They're Out of Town - They Will Never Know.

that thing we got the other day.

2010-11-02T08:56:00.000-04:00

A new sidewalk!

Stone retaining wall coming soon . . .

halloween 2010.

2010-10-31T22:13:00.001-04:00

Halloween 2010

My wish was to dress them as Thing 1 and Thing 2

from The Cat in the Hat.

My wish went down in flames.

Teddy took this soldier thing very, very seriously.

We walked up to the main drag with friends.

All the stores and restaurants gave out candy.

Forbes Avenue, Squirrel Hill

We saw some great costumes!

Then it was back home to pass out candy.

Happy Halloween!

one last shot.

2010-10-26T18:19:00.000-04:00

One last picture from our visit to the farm. I saw a beautiful display of mums on our way out and I asked the boys to sit among them as I snapped a few pictures, none of which turned out. The very last click of the camera was this shot. Teddy said to me, "Mommy, take one more! Look at me!" And he sat there with his huge teethy grin from ear to ear. I almost didn't take it because I had already started to put my camera away. So glad I did.

guess what we got this weekend.

2010-10-25T10:59:00.000-04:00

And I'm telling you - she's a beauty!

i don't understand.

2010-10-23T09:07:00.002-04:00

Why is it that every year at around this time the boys start refusing to go to the bathroom alone? I just don't get it.

What is so spooky about a little powder room?

triple b farm.

2010-10-22T07:57:00.000-04:00

A drive in October to Triple B Farm is a tradition in our house. This year the boys learned that when you have a grandpa and a grandma who spent their earliest years growing up on farms in America's Heartland, a hayride isn't just a fun and cutesy jaunt through a field. It's a learning opportunity; a time to pass down a bounty of knowledge to the next generation!

Okay, boys, do we have any farming questions?

Why, yes, Papa. What is that?

Well, young man, let me explain this as simply as I can. Listen carefully, now over there we have . . .

Papa shared lots of information with them, and with great enthusiasm. If the man could turn one of his grandsons into a farmer, he would be beyond thrilled. Honestly, I probably would too. We all have dreams for our children and grandchildren, don't we? His other dream would be for one of them to be a Nascar driver. He'll have to look to one of the other 102 little boys in our extended family, because so far there is no interest here. Unless, of course, there could be a camo car built in the form of a military tank. Then Teddy might give it a second thought.

Then dad told me to take a picture of this Vermeer hay-making thingamajig for Elayna.

It's not just all fun and games on the farm. Okay, so maybe there are a few games. Just a few.

Inspired by the hayride, later that day dad showed George how to make miniature hay bales out of grass. I walked into the kitchen unaware as to what was going on, but my OCD noticed the little bits of dead grass all over my kitchen counter and the two of them whispering and trying to hide what they were doing. (They know me and my "issues" well.) All it took was for dad to say something about how he used to do this when he was little for me to be won over, and with clear conscience ignore the grass bitties intruding upon the tidy recesses of my brain. Then they put the bales into the back of George's John Deere tractor and instructed me to take pictures. Parents aren't the only ones who get to relive their childhood - grandparents do too.

don't even think about touching my huggie.

2010-10-19T09:12:00.001-04:00

They say the eyes are the window to the soul.

boo.

2010-10-16T21:48:00.000-04:00

We went to a haunted barn today. George LOVED it. Can't you tell?

in disguise.

2010-10-13T21:14:00.000-04:00

If you look really, really hard, you just might see a small boy. He blends in with the background. You probably can't even see his shoes either.

the acklins and the west wing.

2010-10-09T16:37:00.001-04:00

A college friend of Kevin's is working in the West Wing of the White House and the last time we saw him he invited us down for a personal tour. And I won't even get into this guy's resume because it would blow your mind. And I won't even get into how completely sweet and down-to-earth he is despite the mind-blowing resume. All I will say is if he represents the behind-the-scenes brilliant minds pushing ahead our nation's policies, we're in the best possible hands. I will start sleeping very well at night; thank you.

Jon and Kevin

They both went to Haaaavad. They both played hockey. One was once embedded as a journalist with the Marine Corps in Iraq. The other was once mistaken for Conan O'Brien on a live episode of The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. I'll let you decide.

So this is where we started. A series of two Secret Service check points. And they aren't called the Secret Service for nothing. Ask them a question about their training and if you're lucky they will just throw you a smile. It's a secret - duuuh!

Kevin and the boys at the first gate.

At the second check-point they gave us these badges to wear. We had to return them at the end of our tour. Jon joked that maybe the credentials are ugly on purpose so they don't all end up in scrapbooks. So I took this picture of George wearing his, coaching him on how to hold it out to the camera meanwhile holding up a member of the White House staff who was standing behind me. I apologized to her and she said, "No, not a problem, this is a moment. Definitely get the picture!"

Through security and walking over to the West Wing!

Here we are in front of the side entrance to the West Wing. This is where I had to turn off my camera. No photography allowed inside! Just inside the doors and to the left is a small hallway leading to the Vice President's office, and to the right is the mess hall on one side and the Situation Room on the other. And no, the palate-o-green was purely coincidence. I'm not that nuts. You don't believe me, do you?

Heading inside the West Wing!

We saw several offices and rooms, but of course the highlight was the Oval Office. I wasn't allowed to take any pictures of the Oval Office so I pulled this AP photo off the internet. I wish I could have taken one myself but as nice as the officer on guard next to the door appeared, I'm sure he could have taken us all down with his pinky finger. We were allowed to poke our heads through the door to the left on the back wall, though. Can you see it? The President's desk is the same used by President Kennedy. Through the windows behind the desk I saw playground equipment the Obamas had installed on the lawn for their youngest daughter.

Kevin and the boys outside the front entrance of the West Wing.

Then we made our way over to the Brady Press Briefing Room.

Jon pointing out the President's residence as we head over to the briefing room. More importantly, you might notice that Teddy's shirt is now untucked. While standing outside the Oval Office he suddenly needed to take a pee. Of course, right? Thankfully there was a bathroom right there in the hallway, but the shirt never made it back into his pants. Remember - we don't get out much.

James Brady is a former White House Press Secretary who was shot and subsequently paralyzed during the assassination attempt on President Reagan in 1981. The briefing room is named in his honor.

Front row seats.

You might notice the Purell hand santizer dispenser on the right. I'm telling you they were all over the White House. Subtle hint, I suppose. You know, clean your dang hands you grubby people. It's just the little things I spend too much time thinking about. Does Purell know about this? Who actually refills the dispensers? They were in every hallway. Nevermind. Back to the press room.

Jon, Kevin and George looking at the podium area.

Teddy looking for bad guys.

I own this place.

Kevin and three leprechauns.

One last picture in front of the White House.

Testing. Testing.

I don't know why but this is my favorite picture.

After the tour we walked over to a hotel to grab a bite to eat with Jon. We sat outside, just to the left of this picture. It was such a beautiful night.

Then we returned to our hotel where I soaked my feet (running a mile in heels is not good) and took this picture of the room's stately decor. Mr. Washington gave me the creeps just a bit. Not sure how I felt about the old dude staring at us all weekend.

The next morning we met more friends for brunch, but before that we did a quick driving tour to check out a few of our old haunts.

Here we are driving up Independence Avenue with the Capitol building to the left and the Rayburn House Office Building to the right. I have to say I really miss Capitol Hill. It was a very exciting place for a Midwestern gal in her twenties.

Rayburn House Office Building

When I worked there streets were not barricaded, folks chain-smoked in their offices and others brought their dogs into the cafeteria. The good old days.

The United States Capitol Building

I once (as part of my first job on the Hill) gave tours of this building to constituents who were in town. It's a good thing that my incoherent ramblings about the architecture, design and history of this place were, in fact, free of charge. Also, it was here that Mr. Acklin stole me away from Iowa. As interns we would run paperwork to the cloakroom ~~then hide out in the back row of the House floor for hours at a time~~ and were responsible for other tasks of high importance to the daily functions of our federal government. The good old days.

East Capitol Street

Driving past the Capitol, we turned right onto East Capitol Street. I love the old row houses here - each one unique and colorful. 10 blocks down East Capitol is Lincoln Park - home of our first apartment. And in typical young, Washingtonian fashion (okay, broke Hill staffer and poor law student fashion) we moved into an English basement on 11th Street, NE. It was here that we learned the phrase, "If you want a friend in Washington, buy a dog." Within months we found Mr. Wilson.

First apartment

Then we drove around the corner to check in on our first home - a condo on 12th Street, NE. We tell each other at least once a year that we wish we never sold it. That pretty much concludes our tour. By this point the boys were complaining they were hungry and that we weren't doing anything fun for kids.

First home

Punk

Other things we saw while in town:

Washington Monument

Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

Do you see the camo shorts Teddy is holding? That morning we disagreed on what he was going to wear. Obviously the "soldier" wanted to wear camo, and when I said no he asked if he could at least carry them around. What's a mother to do? So he happily carried a pair of camo shorts all over the National Mall. In front of the Air and Space Museum he spotted this handsome group of men and women of the U.S. Navy. He wanted to show them the shorts. What's a dad to do?

The National Archives

(No photography allowed in there either!)

Ford's Theatre

The other little punk. The end.

eric carle.

2010-09-29T20:17:00.002-04:00

Don't you love Eric Carle? There are only a certain number of years that children enjoy that level of simplicity (until they become parents and discover it all over again!) And it's a precious time. When I look at the cover of The Very Hungry Caterpillar I think about holding baby boys in our recliner and reading and pointing out all the different foods and colors. I remember watching (I mean, the boys *ahem* watched) a Mr. Rogers episode where he toured Mr. Carle's studio and learned how he creates his collages. Just beautiful. I follow Eric Carle's blog here. Once he posted this picture of his "work" shoes. Today he wrote the sweetest little post. I love the photos; his huge grin with fork and knife in hand. Maybe it's his way of saying "Slow down, people! Enjoy life!" with out being so tacky as to actually say it. Like I did. Because I'm not an artist.

ssshhh.

2010-09-28T18:32:00.006-04:00

George couldn't whisper if his life depended on it. He really doesn't mean to be devious when he speaks loudly in inapproriate situations, he just can't help it. He's an Acklin! Those folks are so LOUD! (Love you all!) So church sometimes makes me nervous. I have the evil stink eye look nailed down, but sometimes I just can't catch him in time.

Two things last weekend. First, the loud outburst that went something like, "MOM, THE BASKET ALREADY WENT BY AND YOU DIDN'T PUT THE MONEY IN!" (For the record - of course I did!) I whispered to him to knock the volume down about ten decibels and that yes, I did put money in. His response was something like, "BUT MOM, I DIDN'T SEE YOU PUT IT IN!" Dear Lord. Help me. I am weak.

Then towards the end of Mass he stares at me for a minute, and ~~says~~ yells, "MOM, WHY ARE YOU WEARING THAT ROBE TO CHURCH?" That robe? My comfy Ann Taylor cardigan? Crap, does it look like a robe!? So I whisper, "George this is a sweater, not a robe. Please be quiet." Crap, does this really look like a robe?! He painfully and with great strain whispered back, "But mom, it looks like you're wearing a robe." Thanks, George. I guess the bright side is knowing that I can now meander my way through life with the honest (and loud) opinions of my sons. Yeah, it sort of does look like a robe, doesn't it?

through a mom's eyes.

2010-09-27T22:40:00.001-04:00

The boys are 4 and 5 years old, but this is what I see when I drop them off at school. Although I think I've already forgotten how hard it is with babies in the house. Funny how it works that way isn't it?

more on the soldier.

2010-09-27T12:30:00.001-04:00

So when I picked up Teddy from preschool the other day the first thing he tells me is that a classmate of his does not believe that he's a soldier. Here's how the conversation went from there:

Me: Oh, he doesn't understand that you like to pretend you're a soldier?

Ted (voice raised): No, Mom! I AM a soldier and he doesn't believe me!

Me: I'm sorry; you're right. Well, maybe (I am) he is just confused about that.

Ted: He just doesn't believe me.

Me: When you grow up are you going to be a soldier?

Ted (the voice again): Ahhh . . . MOM! I AM a soldier now!

Me: I know; you're right, you're right. When you grow up do you still want to be one?

Ted: Yes. I want to wear camo and let people take their picture with me.

Me: Will you let me take my picture with you? Wait, don't answer that. Just tell me about school.

the late afternoon crash.

2010-09-21T22:59:00.001-04:00

It's 4:37 p.m. on a Tuesday. Homework is done and I'm starting to get dinner ready. I realize it's getting quiet and I look up to see two small boys watching their toons with eyelids the weight of bricks. It's the same thing every day - "Boys! Stay awake in there! Sit up!" All it takes is for one of them to sneak in a 5 minute power nap and it's a loooong night. I have a feeling I'm not the only mama with this routine!

hide and seek.

2010-09-13T22:41:00.000-04:00

Bath, books and bed - our nightly routine. This little scene was after the bath when I stepped away to hunt something down - pajamas, Aquafor, toothbrushes? When I returned to the bathroom there were no small boys to be found. I called their names, listened, nothing. I called again and then heard giggling from the hall closet. And there they were . . .

give 'em an inch, they take a mile.

2010-09-12T23:20:00.001-04:00

The instructions were for the boys to slip off their sandals and dip the tips of their toes into the pool. Leave it to these two goobers to jump in fully clothed as soon as I turned my back. And at all places but their dad's law firm's summer party. Like I always say, we really don't get out much.

first days of school.

2010-09-09T14:23:00.002-04:00

George's first day of kindergarten

One last look at our boy before Kevin and I were off!

Picking him up after his first day.

Too cool to pose for pictures in front of his friends. Ha, ha.

A couple days later Teddy had his first day.

The big brother was a big encouragement.

The boys and Kevin walking into the school building.

Kevin giving Teddy one last pep talk before going inside.

Inside we go!

Situating Teddy at a table with a few of his new classmates.

One last peek at the little guy before we left.

Thankfully I was distracted enough to not cry my eyes out at this point.

At the end his first morning at school and he was all smiles.

Teddy was excited to have his very own school folder just like his brother.

First week down and we all survived!

a cousin-filled labor day weekend.

2010-09-07T21:09:00.000-04:00

Kiernan, Trey, George, Owen and Teddy Acklin

just another day in the life of a boy.

2010-09-07T21:00:00.000-04:00

a "dam" astonishing visit.

2010-09-06T00:27:00.001-04:00

Papa, George and Teddy

Johnstown, PA Flood Museum

Here are a few pictures of a recent visit to Johnstown, Pennylvania, site of the May 31, 1889 flood that killed 2,200 residents. A controversal moment in history as the tragedy was the result of a poorly maintained dam owned by the exclusive and secretive South Fork Fishing and Hunting Club. We visited a museum in Johnstown where we saw a film which was introduced by the granddaughter of two of the flood's survivors. She said her grandparents were supposed to be married that day, and of course had to put off the wedding. The flood destroyed the entire town which had been built around a large scale steel mill - the Cambria Iron and Steel Company. We also stopped by the site of the dam, and checked out the town of St. Michael which was established after the flood on the property once owned by Pittsburgh's wealthy elite for their private weekend retreats. Several of the homes are still standing, as well as a club house, all now under the care of the National Park Service. ~~Clark Griswald~~ Dad couldn't say enough times how damn interesting it was to see sites after reading so much about it. Dad . . . always the inappropriate jokester.

Dad walking on one end of what remains of the South Fork Dam.

The valley on right was at one time known as Lake Conemaugh.

Looking across to the opposite side of the dam. National Park Service buildings on top of the hill.

junior pirates.

2010-08-28T00:17:00.001-04:00

The boys on the field at PNC Park in recognition of their participation in the Junior Pirates rookie ball program.

Watching the game with their buddy.

George and his buddy a couple weeks earlier with their trophies from the Greenfield Baseball Association.

future photographers.

2010-08-27T23:51:00.000-04:00

Teddy took this picture of his big brother.

And here is Teddy from George's point of view.

bucs.

2010-08-22T23:31:00.000-04:00

This is how you watch a baseball game . . .

. . . when your names are George and Teddy and you are the luckiest boys on the planet.

And to top it off, on our way out . . .

. . . we ran into these guys.

Definitely the luckiest boys (dad included).

south carolina summer.

2010-08-10T22:14:00.002-04:00

South Carolina Summer 2010. Hot as blazes. That about wraps it up. Thank you, and good night.

Okay, I'm back. We did manage to somehow move from our air conditioned accomodations to the van, and then dash in and out of various sites before being sucked into Hades during our southern family vacation. Well, except for the time we drove into town (Charleston), parked, immediately started dripping with sweat, dashed into a restaurant to cool down, walked across the street to a market, started dripping again, bought a pint of homemade dill pickles, ate them under a shade tree, almost died from the resulting salt-induced dehydration, and then called it a day. Other than that near brush with eternal hellfire, we had a totally fabulous time. The beach, mini golf, go carts, historic sites, a dinner with Tim, Susan, and the boys, and more beach. It was wonderful.

Here we are at one of our outings - Fort Moultrie on Sullivan's Island.

Obviously the cannons were a huge hit.

~~I am~~ the boys are obsessed with park rangers. They were almost too shy to get their picture taken with her, and they were very interested in whether or not she carried a weapon. Boys. Seriously.

And here are their Fort Moultrie badges. Didn't these used to be fabric patches that you could actually sew onto a shirt? Not that I would do that if they were, but . . . okay, maybe I would . . . okay, so maybe when I saw that they were plastic I instantly said to myself, "Damnit. I can't exactly sew these onto anything!" But we were very appreciative. I'm hoping they have a shelf full of these one day. Not that I like to collect things. We all know I have issues. But I'll make this one exception. And that's where I draw the line.

Towards the middle of our trip we found this lonely looking child on the side of the road and asked him if he wanted to go with us on a plantation tour. He opened his mouth and before a word was uttered all I saw was some missing front teeth and I instantly fell in love, stole him and demanded he call me mommy. And I now I have three sons. Life is beautiful.

Oh, no wait. That's not totally true. Although I am totally in love with this child, my nephew, but he just so happened to be in town for his big brother's baseball tournament. And we did steal him for a day so Susan and Tim could watch Kiernan play and we could let him play with his cousins. And he is missing some teeth and it's the cutest thing I've ever seen.

Here is the house we toured. We learned that rice was king here. I wish you all were with us. You would appreciate the million times we heard, "Ryes was kang!" So people there's your mini-lesson of the day. At one time, in South Carolina, rice was . . . nevermind.

They loved it. Can you tell? They had so many questions afterwards. Yawn. No, actually this is what heat-induced coma looks like. Hum . . . actually, parents might have it pretty good down there in the South.

Later that day the little nephew says, "Excuse me, dear sir and madam, I have yet on this trip been afforded the opportunity to see the vast Atlantic Ocean. Would you be so kind as to take me there?" It was weird because the child is from Atlanta yet he spoke with an English accent. Oh, no wait. Exaggerating again. It was more like the boys all said, "We're so hot! We're going to die! No more talk about ryes! Take us to the beach! Noooooow!" So we did.

Sullivan's Island

Check out Kevin's vacation beard! Cool picture, huh?

Just call me the paparazzi.

I love taking pictures at the beach.

This is my all time favorite picture of Teddy and Kevin. It has already been framed and is sitting on Kevin's desk at his office.

Teddy and Kevin building a fort. If whatever you're saying or doing is nothing military-related, then Teddy is not interested. And he isn't "Teddy," he's "Soldier". At night when I tuck him in it's, "Goodnight, soldier."

After that trip into Charleston (the one just to buy the jar of pickles and walk past the gates of Hell), we found our well air-conditioned way to this interesting place. The Citadel. Teddy will be there one day. He will be there, and he'll scare the hell out of all of his commanders with his intensity, and he'll later go on to rule the universe. That's my boy.

Citadel barracks. I'm not sure how many of these there are but we poked our heads into maybe 3 buildings set up just like this. On one wall in each barracks was a board with step-by-step directions detailing how the bedrooms need to look at all times. Things like how to hang the clothes perfectly, a list of items that are allowed on top of the desks and where they are to be placed, and how there has to be a 6 inch fold at the top of the sheet when making beds. (Ruler included in the picture.) So I read all of that and then looked around at the immaculate grounds of the Citadel and realized that I had found my place on this earth; this sanctuary of peace, order and harmony. Where OCD is kang!

Okay, well that is all that I have for now. If I think too much about places like you see above I start to scratch at the windows and sing Annie show tunes. It's not pretty. The end.

adjusting.

2010-07-30T09:49:00.003-04:00

. . . to being landlocked again after a week of doing this:

More pictures coming soon!

kennywood.

2010-07-18T15:12:00.002-04:00

Kennywood 2007

Kennywood 2008

Kennywood 2009

Kennywood 2010

George, Owen, Candee, Nunny, Teddy and me

Kennywood 2010

unexpected.

2010-07-17T01:13:00.002-04:00

After a recent Friday night drive around our beloved Steel City (see picture above) we decided we were hungry when Kevin thought of the perfect place to take us. He wouldn't tell us where until we pulled into the parking lot - Benihana! Would you believe I had never been to such a place? I've always been curious about those knife wielding, food tossing, fire breathing, (okay, so there wasn't fire involved, but you catch my drift) destinations. I was very excited about this new experience until after being seated the hostess mentioned that we might be joined by other folks during our meal. Whaaaa? You mean . . . strangers . . . that, like . . . I'll have to talk to? Did I hear that right? Sure enough within minutes a couple sat down to our right, and shortly thereafter another couple was seated to our left. There we were. All 8 of us. Strangers. Three adults on each side with two smallish boys with chop sticks stuffed up their noses wedged in between. Yep. Work. It was going to feel like work.

Kevin, the ice-breaker champion of the universe, started out with the usual questions: what part of town do you live in, have you been here before, blah, blah, blah. You know me, I wanted to stab my eyeballs out. Within minutes, ~~Chatter box Charlie~~ Kevin and the couple on his side of the table are in conversation about how we all lived in DC. Then it was: what street were you on, we should have bought 8 condos back then instead of one, working on the Hill, yadda, yadda, yadda. Fun stuff! Then the guy next to me is all, have you tried this wine before, and please, have a sip, and your kids are so awesome I could just sit here watching them watching the chef, and may I suggest you check out the Canon 70-300 lens for your camera, and I just got back from Ireland, and where did you stay there, and oh my God, I think we trespassed the same guy's field to check out the abandoned castle. Get out! No way!

Before we knew it, Drew the chef was tossing around knives and pepper grinders, the boys were transfixed and speechless, all of us were having really great conversation and food, and we topped it off by singing Happy Birthday to a rather song-resistant Julie. Doesn't singing Happy Birthday to a stranger make you just as happy as singing it to someone you know? Or am I just a sap? And isn't unexpected joy the best kind of all? Maybe it is okay to talk to strangers once in awhile.

2010-07-08T18:32:00.002-04:00

The boys are both playing on the Little Pirates league now, sponsored by the Pittsburgh Pirates and the city. Watching Teddy running, throwing and catching makes me realize that maaaaybe Elayna is right. (Although, he still asks to be carried to the van after practice. Carried. Like a baby.)

Teddy running the bases, concentrating on hitting the inside corner.

Teddy and George

photographic fun.

2010-07-08T12:20:00.002-04:00

As I sit at the kitchen table waiting patiently for the boys to complete a ~~mandatory time out for mind numbing unruly behavior~~ few moments of quiet before heading out to check out a new play space in Squirrel Hill, I thought I would post a couple pictures for your viewing pleasure. Enjoy!

Fourth of July. I love that day. It's the political science nerd/proud American in me. More importantly, it marks the anniversary of our first date. Washington, DC, 1996, under the slim shadow of the Washington Monument I fell in love with Mr. Acklin. So on Sunday we were playing around with sparklers when I asked Kevin to "write" something in the air as I set the camera on a slow shutter speed as a photograhic experiment. I asked him to write something cute like a heart, etc. As he was writing I couldn't tell what it was but there was lots of waving of the arms going on. As soon as the camera snapped I looked at the view finder to find the most romantic message - his damn name. It's okay. Men raised without sisters have it hard. He's working on it.

Jumping. Another experiment with the camera. George particularly enjoyed this. It's not every day that I'm encouraging him to jump off the furniture into a mountain of pillows.

Cannonball!

brothers.

2010-07-01T09:21:00.002-04:00

I found this vintage children's book the other day at a flea market:

Then came upon this little scene yesterday:

Remember playing the foot game? The book tells us that although brothers can drive each other freakin' nuts, the good news is brothers are never lonely. True, very true. Especially the freakin' nuts part.

The story is precious but seems to be missing something. Some important element forgotten on the pages. It took me awhile to figure out what it was. Then it dawned on me. Oh, yes, that's it - a little whimiscal drawing of two shirtless brothers sharing one bicycle sporting superheroes underpants on their heads. Now why aren't I writing children's books?

close encounters of the third kind?

2010-06-29T01:28:00.000-04:00

No, not quite. Kevin has teased me for years for my love of James Taylor and his folksy cowboy lullabyes, but surprised me with this on Saturday:

Tickets to see him and Carole King perform. Is my taste in music showing my age? I just think Carole King oozes cool. It was also the Igloo's last concert which was a little bitter sweet (even for a non-native).

yes, he is.

2010-06-24T09:32:00.002-04:00

For Elayna who has suggested that Teddy is not a baby.

Okay, so at night he is in a bunk bed with his brother. But occasionally he takes a mid-afternoon nap in the nursery. You see, he is still a baby!

lemonade here (for you bucco fans).

2010-06-23T09:14:00.003-04:00

Did you know the "lemonade here" guy has over 13,000 fans on Facebook (click here)? We were at a Pirates game the other night and I really had to resist the urge to ask if I could get my picture taken with him. So very, very blogworthy. Maybe next time. Speaking of lemonade, we had a yard sale the other day and Mr. George not only stayed up with me until 1:30 am the night before organizing all of the ~~crap~~ treasures, but also woke up at the crack of dawn to man a lemonade stand. He said to me, "Mom, this is going to be my first real job." He was very attentive to the task - constantly checking to see how much lemonade was left, worried about making more, urging me not to skimp on the number of freshly squeezed lemons ("Mom, put one more in there"), arranging and re-arranging cups. The boy is a worker bee. (Meanwhile, Teddy was with Kevin helping out with a gardening project in the neighborhood. We put them both to work that day!) He made out like a bandit - $8! Here he is posing with his first taste of hard-earned money.

little man's party.

2010-06-07T16:40:00.002-04:00

This child - the one you see above with the punked-out hair and toothy grin and innocent looking eyes - decided months ago (during the Snowpocalypse to be exact) that he wanted an "air guitar" themed 4th birthday party. The boy doesn't understand that a guitar is just that - a guitar, not an "air guitar". I've tried to explain this to him and he gets annoyed with me so now I just go with it - and all rock stars play air guitars, not "guitars" but "air guitars". Are we all on the same page now with the vocabulary? Good.

So with a few decorations that he picked out from a party store, and an air guitar shaped cake designed by yours truly, we had a little party for the boy known as Teddy Bear, T-Bear, T-Bone, or if he's in big trouble - Theodore (but that's rare, so very, very rare . . . unless he's peeing on a rose bush at a public garden in front of an entire wedding party, but that was long ago so we don't need to over that again.)

When we sang Happy Birthday to Teddy his eyes just froze on his daddy. He put his little paws up on the table, and just smiled at Kevin through the whole song. It was precious. You can see some movement in the photo but little man was just transfixed on his dad. Kevin probably won't admit it but he had tears in his eyes. When the song was finished Kevin had to tell him, "Okay, buddy - now blow out your candles!" Oh, it was the cutest thing ever. Being a parent simply rocks.

Teddy right before blowing out the candles . . .

. . . and now eating his air guitar cake and ice cream.

Teddy was very excited and appreciative of all of his gifts. But I have to say . . . there was one particular gift that caused quite a scene . . .

In group situations my boy is usually a bit quiet. But in this case he screamed at the top of his lungs, "Oh my gosh! I got an air guitar!" It was hilarious and he was beyond thrilled. Thanks, Kekes and Pap!

Teddy has been rockin' ever since, but I think this toy is going to kill me. Thanks again, Kekes and Pap. Thanks, ALOT!

And his new drum set . . . also going to kill me.

Teddy's other passion is Legos, and he received the coolest set of Lego accessories from his Nonnie and Papa. My friend and Teddy's Godmother, Lauren, sat with Teddy for at least 30 minutes putting them together. Lauren is going to be such a good mom someday. She has to have 25 boys because she definitely has the patience for it.

It was a great party for an awesome kid. I can't believe we now have a 4 year old and 5 year old, though. I won't say that it goes by too fast because that's so cliche . . . but . . . no, I won't say it.

theodore turns four.

2010-06-05T11:56:00.000-04:00

Happy 4th birthday to our handsome little boy.
(Photo by Ruth Hendricks of 3 week old Teddy.)

greenfield grasshoppers.

2010-05-04T14:21:00.006-04:00

I was strangely nervous the day of George's first baseball practice. Well, it's not that strange if you know me as I'm over-the-top apprehensive of anything new. Baseball, am I really ready for this? It's a commitment and I have enough of those already! Well, George was more than ready without a doubt in the world. I emailed Kevin at work about 15 minutes before leaving the house. "I'm so excited for tonight!" "Me too!" he responds. We're both lying to each other and we know it. We're not excited. We're not ready. He is too little for this! But we leave the house and (because I'm nervous) I leave waaaaay too early and show up 15 minutes before the practice is supposed to begin. So we sit in the van near the practice field and we see a few little guys running around with each other. They seem to know each other. And meanwhile George yells from his carseat, "Mom look at those kids! Let's go! I want to play baseball with them! They will be my friends!" And I say a quick prayer to thank God for this child who is so brave and outgoing and simply awesome. I am learning a thing or two from the child's attitude on life, let me tell you!

So I say to him, "George, we're pretty early so let's just sit here for just a couple minutes." George: "How long is a couple minutes? I want to go!" Me: "Just two minutes, honey. Let me do something real quick and then we'll go." Then I fumble in my purse, call Kevin, fumble in my purse again with all two things beside my cell phone - wallet and chapstick, and thinking to myself that at times like this a Blackberry might be nice. No, I didn't just say that. I'm going insane. George: "Mom, how long is two minutes? Is it one SpongeBob episode?" Me: "No, honey that is 30 minutes. I'm only asking for TWO!" George: "One. Two. Okay, let's go." Me: "No, that was two seconds. I'm talking about minutes. Count to 60 two times." George: "But that's a long time mom and I really just want to play baseball." Me: "Okay, fine, we're going."

The practice went without a hitch, and he was more than excited to see his best friend from school on one of the other teams. I watched as they waved to each other from across the field. A couple of days later he had his first game, and got to wear his brand spanking new uniform that he craddled in his arms the night before. He did great and without any hesitation, just pure fun and smiles this kid. I am starting to think I just might survive this phase of mothering boys. Maybe.

George and his best friend, M.

The buddies comparing cleats. They are just too cute.

he never ceases to amaze me.

2010-05-02T20:16:00.001-04:00

Kevin at the Pittsburgh Marathon.

His first ever race and he finished in just over 4 hours.

Maybe . . . maybe . . . I'll try it myself . . . one day . . . far, far away.

Congratulations, honey!

the boy turns five.

2010-04-13T15:07:00.010-04:00

How is it that your first born child, in the blink of an eye, turns five years old? Where did my baby go? We have cherished every single day of the past five years with this little boy - our son. We marked this milestone with a party for George and a gaggle of his little friends on Saturday. The party's theme will come as a complete shock, I'm sure.

You can't get any cuter than a roomful of sweet little guys willing to wear SpongeBob party hats. So precious.

We did a craft (well, sort of . . . hard to do a craft when there is hockey, baseball, basketball and a host of other activities going on in the backyard), ate a yummy lunch expertly prepared by Pap, and then came time for cake and ice cream. And someone who shall remain nameless (ahem) is going to receive his Father-of-the-Year award for this act of love (and courage):

Yes, that is Kevin in a Spongebob costume. This absolutely made George's day.

After the shock of George seeing his father dressed as his favorite cartoon character he blew out his candles.

And here are the boys with Uncle Dan - a kid at heart. And honestly, I wonder if it was just coincidence that Dan wore a SpongeBob shirt, or if he knew about the party's theme. I'm thinking it was just coincidence.

When the time came to open presents the kids were excited. Very excited. The party quickly turned into a tryout for the WWE.

I really can't accurately describe in words the level of excitement with the gift opening. Hopefully the above picture gives it some justice - the only one without a giant blur moving from one side of the frame to the other. And as you may notice Kevin quickly stripped himself of the costume. I just love that man.

After another interruption in the party's agenda for a round of every sport under the sun, we brought out the pinata. If you're ever in the market for something super indestructable, like a bullet-proof vest or goalie pads, save yourself some cash and buy a SpongeBob pinata at Kmart. The thing cannot be destroyed. A group of 10 boys eager to swing bats can do little damage.

Okay, boys. One at a time. Beat poor SpongeBob as hard as you can.

Round 2. Swing, kids, swing! This is for candy for crying outloud!

Round 3. Forget it. Let's cheat. Everyone grab a string.

Pull boys! Pull! For your life! Do it!

Oh, for the love of . . . Kevin just rip the thing open.

Before we knew it the celebration was over and we said goodbye to all of our friends. Just as the last rugrat was on his way home, Maggie and I were talking in the dining room when she said to me, "Erica, turn around. You have to take a picture." And there he was. My five-year-old cake loving boy blissfully and with eyes closed and without a care in the world, nose deep in his leftover birthday cake. Oh, to be 5!

Happy birthday you gorgeous, silly boy!

george's day.

2010-04-13T07:35:00.000-04:00

Our first born turns 5! Where does the time go?

Happy Birthday George!

anything for cake.

2010-04-09T19:37:00.003-04:00

Recent conversation with my almost-not-four-years-old-anymore son:

George: "Mom, 'E' (a classmate) invited me to her birthday party at school today!"

Me: "Oh, wow! If you get an invitation I will take you. It will be fun!"

George: "I'm so excited!"

Me: "Me too!"

George: "She told me it is going to be a princess party."

Me: "A princess party?"

George: "Uh, yeah. Princess."

Me: "Princess?"

George: "Yes."

Me: "Honey, don't be sad, but I bet her party is just for girls."

George: "But she said I could go!"

Me: "I think she was trying to be nice, but I bet her mommy is sending invitations to just girls."

George: "Well, what do you do at a princess party?"

Me: "Oh, the girls will probably wear pretty dresses and wear tiaras. I think everything will be pink and glittery."

George: "Ooohhh."

Me: "Yeeeaaah."

George: (long sigh) "But mom, I'll do anything for cake."

best easter ever.

2010-04-06T01:30:00.023-04:00

How was your Easter? Let me tell you about ours. It was the best ever. A perfect day and a wonderful feast. Here is a little photo montage of the day.

Adorable picture of the boys, right? Well, don't let them fool you. Later in the day their grandmother confiscated what the Easter bunny gave them in order to avoid injury or death. You know . . . the typical stuff you have to do on Easter.

The boys were very excited to find some money to add to their piggy banks. Some of it may have been Canadian, but we haven't yet covered the value of foreign currency with the boys so we're good.

After the egg hunt and breakfast we went to Mass. I wish it was appropriate to bring a camera to church. There are just so many photo opportunities that I could capture there. Like after Communion when we were just about to slip back into our pew and Teddy slumps down on the floor and yells, "OH, MAN! NOT AGAIN!" The look of torture on his face would have made a lovely portrait. Thankfully the sound of the organ drowned out the boy's comment which could have otherwise been clearly interpreted to the entire Cathedral as, this family has left Mass after Communion a time or two. Not true, though. Definitely not true. I don't know where he got this attitude.

Then we were back home to prepare for dinner. You can barely see the mantel there on the left where after dinner I found a card that read, To the Mommy of the Best Baby in the World. It was not for me. It was for my sister-in-law who has a birthday this week. And it was so much fun to pitch a fit about who really has the best babies in the world.

There is Nunny, the matriarch of the family. The one who wrote the card not for me. You really have to keep your eyes on that one.

Meanwhile we have Pap in the kitchen preparing the ham. Delicious. And a holiday isn't a holiday unless everyone is near starvation just before gorging themselves. Look at George and his Uncle Dan holding onto the kitchen island for balance. And we have Teddy muttering, "Pap. I need meat. I neeeeeeed meat."

Wish granted. We can't have anyone passing out around here on Easter.

Dinner was excellent as always. A big spread that everyone enjoyed. Then it was time for cake. Although Maggie isn't getting any speed cake cutting awards because these kids are dying for a piece. Move it, lady!

Before I conclude I should post a picture of this baby I keep referring to. There he is. And he really is the best. And it doesn't hurt being so darn cute. Couldn't you just eat those cheeks?

pgh center for the arts.

2010-03-31T15:56:00.003-04:00

Teddy and I are taking an art class together at the Pittsburgh Center for the Arts. It has been so much fun to have some one-on-one time with the youngest boy while George is in school. I'll admit that it is a bit challenging too because I want to take over each project and do them all myself. While other moms in the class are busy positively peppering their children with supportive but unintrusive help, I once whispered quietly into my baby's ear, "Honey, if you put one more speck of glitter on that I will go completely blind." Hopefully Teddy has already forgotten about that. Here a few of my his creations out of the 402 things we have made. Each and every one is brilliant.

tissue paper lantern ~ Admit it; you want one.

pencil box decorated with pasta noodles ~ Oddly satisfying to paint.

paper mache snake ~ No, you cannot have it - Ssssssss!

bird ~ This one to sit on top of the television and thwart evil advertising demons

ca-razy mask ~ I couldn't decide which photo to post, mean Teddy or happy Teddy. Both are totally authentic and taken within 15 seconds. Future method actor.

blot art ~ "Cat" is going to be our ticket to the good life. Inspired by Andy Warhol's love for the beasts. This one we will sell to the highest bidder.

modge podge flower pot ~ You are now wanting to modge podge something. Admit it.

garden 2010.

2010-03-30T14:10:00.000-04:00

I started our seedlings for this year's garden the other day. Tomatoes, basil, and snapdragons. I have heard that snapdragons are delicious in salads. No, I'm lying. Teddy saw them in the store and thought they were pretty. He told me that since I like pretty things I should buy them. Done. Such a sweet boy I have. I planted the seeds using egg cartons and paper towel rolls cut into small sections. I've become so resourceful in my old age.

devoured in 30 seconds flat.

2010-03-25T10:25:00.003-04:00

Happy Spring!

speedy delivery.

2010-03-14T16:18:00.000-04:00

Kevin and the boys with Mr. Rogers' loyal friend Mr. McFeely

at the St. Patrick's Day Parade.

how to (in an extreme nutshell) make brownies.

2010-03-10T23:45:00.012-05:00

Step 1. Wrangle children (if necessary, and if not, you're amazing) and confine them in a so-called Learning Tower, or "The Tower of Learning" as I like to call the contraption (only to be said in a low, slightly evilish tone . . . think He-Man - "By the power of Greyskull! I have the ~~power~~ Tower!"). Okay, I'm getting distracted. The brownies.

Step 2. Mix together ingredients. Butter, Eggs, Hershey's cocoa, yadda, yadda, yadda. If you're a good mother you will toss in some ground flaxseed. If you don't, you're a failure. Well, not really . . . well, maybe sort of.

Step 3. Take time out to fulfill your child's request to write on a piece of paper "$1,000" and take a mugshot-like picture of him. I have no idea what this means. Maybe he's trying to sell himself on Ebay. Back to the brownies.

Step 4. Allow children to mix ingredients and then lick beaters. If you're mean you'll obsess over the uncooked eggs that could potentially do something totally terrible to them. And then you'll rob them of sweet childhood memories. Your choice. I don't judge. Well, actually I do but we'll go over that later.

Step 5. Place batter into individual IKEA ceramic bowls. Nothing else will do. Bake at 350 degrees for some amount of time.

Step 6. Eat, and in horror watch your spouse scoop up all remaining traces of your mother-child afternoon activity with his bare hands. Sorry no photos of this. We have an image or something to uphold.

our boys love Lent.

2010-03-06T21:37:00.001-05:00

(Taken with Kevin's Blackberry.)

And the tools they get to play with while eating meat alternatives.

a first and a last - all in one day.

2010-03-06T21:33:00.000-05:00

Teddy's first visit to the dentist.

He was such a big boy.

And speaking of big, this is probably the last time I'll be able to push these two around in a grocery cart. (Yes, I was the crazy lady in the Giant Eagle parking lot enthusiastically taking pictures of my kids. We don't get out much. What can I say.)

may I recommend for your weekend.

2010-03-05T13:45:00.002-05:00

In the Mood for Love (2000)

Directed by Wong Kar-wai, starring Maggie Cheung and Tony Leung

I read about this movie this week in a design blog (of all things) that I like to follow (designspongeonline.com). I watched. I loved. I must share. (And I try not to share my movie tastes too often because they are usually very poor. In my world, Jennifer Aniston deserved an Oscar for her role in Office Space. An Oscar, people.) Okay, the movie. It is 1964, Hong Kong, and a deep, yet platonic relationship develops between two neighbors who realize their spouses are going about something in a non-platonic kind of way. What happens is just so unexpected. And I know nothing about filmography, but there are so many unique shots in slow-motion with just the perfect music and it all just makes you say - wow. You have to see this movie. And you'll love the retro-inspired shots like this:

That's Chow. He smokes alot. He works hard. He keeps his friends in line. He also has an absent, cheating wife and you'll just love him.

That's So. She is beautiful. She also works hard. Her landlady says she's too kind. She's also devasted and lonely and abandoned. You'll love her too.

If you don't understand Cantonese but you can read English, you're in luck with the subtitles. Although (now that I think about it) if you can't read English, what are you doing on my blog? This is not a vintage asian design fan page. But I suppose it could be? I do like vintage asian design. But back to the subtitles. I'm not usually a fan of them. I get a headache and I also feel like I'm missing half of the acting because I'm too busy reading. And Kevin will tell you I'm a notoriously slow reader. God help me when we are reading something together online. I have to flick his finger off the down arrow, and then he says over and over, "Are you done? Are you done? Are you done?" Anyway, I'm digressing again. I didn't have my usual bad experience with the subtitles in this film. In fact, I barely remember reading at all.

A unique, edgy, fashionable, beautiful film. Check it out, rent it, or watch it on Netflix and let me know what you think. Enjoy!

the dog.

2010-02-26T11:47:00.008-05:00

A few photos of Wilson Milhous Hanson Acklin The Great, age 12. He is currently the scruffiest dog you've ever seen. This happens every winter when I wait as long as possible to get that warm blanket of grey shaved off of him. Poodles like to look "put together" so he's very irritated with me right now.

When Kevin and I brought him home to our little Capitol Hill english basement, I remember thinking, "I can't believe he's ours. Don't they know I have the maturity of a 9 year old? Isn't someone going to be making home visits to ensure we haven't sold him to a circus?"

(Oatmeal . . . so close yet so far away.)

Funny thing is, when we brought home our human children from the hospital, the exact same questions fluttered through my mind. "Are they really going to just let us walk out the door with him? We are going to put him in the car and just drive off?" Although, (for the humans) the question of the circus is still under consideration.

nevermind the donut.

2010-02-26T08:52:00.007-05:00

How a 4 year old sprinkle-loving boy strategically devours

his dunkin' donut.

what you don't know won't hurt you.

2010-02-23T01:05:00.002-05:00

Somehow George convinced me to turn the kitchen table upside down so he could pretend it was a boat. Ever looked underneath your kitchen table? Well, trust me - don't.

not your typical lavatory.

2010-02-21T09:54:00.000-05:00

Can you guess where this picture was taken?

(Hint - it's decommissioned.)

in case you were wondering . . .

2010-02-18T22:37:00.000-05:00

. . . how these websites work.

~ johnmartz.com

no seriously; a prodigy.

2010-02-16T10:27:00.001-05:00

Collage artist Romare Bearden, Pittsburgh Memories (1984)
* * *

Future artist George Acklin, The Architect (2010)

happy st. valentine's day.

2010-02-13T07:54:00.003-05:00

~ from the Acklin Army

snowed in - day 6.

2010-02-12T09:56:00.002-05:00

View from kitchen window into sunroom.

cabin fever.

2010-02-11T18:04:00.003-05:00

Thanks to the snow - this pretty much sums it up!

school may be closed (again).

2010-02-11T07:45:00.001-05:00

But this child never rests.

built for papa.

2010-02-11T07:39:00.001-05:00

Your love for racing has rubbed off.

big storm brings big idea.

2010-02-09T21:03:00.050-05:00

While the city of Pittsburgh digs itself out of the recent snow storms, one cherished tradition of this community is that chairs can now be found neatly lined up and down almost every neighborhood street. Imagine if these street ornaments were more than just a way to lay claim to a parking spot. Consider the following "Onionesque" interpretation.

* * * * *

Big Storm Brings Big Idea

February 9, 2010

PITTSBURGH, PA -- What began simply as one Pitt law student's coffee run to 61C, quickly became nothing short of extraordinary. Last Friday evening, student Imona Mission found herself stuck with her broken down Toyota Prius at the corner of 5th and Wilkins in the midst of Snowpocalypse. Determined to get her coffee, the decision was made to leave her car stranded and walk. Along the way, inspiration struck her.

"I thought to myself how wonderful it would be if, during a major snow event like we experienced, if folks could just stick a chair in the street in front of their house. I mean, obviously it takes many, many days for the streets to be cleared. And during that time alot of people are getting stuck in the snow. If curbside seating was available for people to rest it would be so great." As soon as Imona returned to her Oakland apartment she began a full scale social-networking campaign to spread the idea now called "The Chair Project". According to Imona, "It was amazing. People instantly took to the idea and starting setting out chairs in the streets. My Facebook friends that I didn't even know were out there supporting the cause!"

Lay Zeass, resident of Shadyside, also believes the project is a valuable asset to the neighborhoods. "I think the project is such a great idea," says Mr. Zeass. "I myself was recently stuck over on Forbes and one guy had one of those reclining beach chairs out. It was awesome. I actually fell asleep on it."

Of course there are those who disagree with the overall message. One observer who asked to remain anonymous noted, "I think it's nice and everything, but if you're going to take to the time to sit out a chair for a passerby to get a rest, why stop there? Why not sit out a table, maybe have some free-reading materials or even a snack? I don't get why people are going about this so half-heartedly." That trend is also popping up on various streets all thoughout the city. Rocking chairs, and even cafe tables have been spotted.

Regardless of a few dissenting opinions, the Chair Project has received massive support all over the region. In the words of founder Imona Mission, "It's amazing how the worst of times can bring out the best in people. When I first arrived in Pittsburgh I never could have imagined the compassion that existed in each and every resident. It's really something that couldn't be found anywhere but here. Thanks, Pittsburgh!"

(View of Denniston Street on Day 4)

scenes from a snowy saturday. (21 inches to be exact)

2010-02-06T21:52:00.002-05:00

Here is a shot from our back door this morning, as the snow continued to pile up another a few inches. I promised the boys we would go outside and play in it as soon as they ate their breakfast and cleaned up what appeared to be a massive explosion of a Hot Wheels factory in our sunroom. They complied. As I bundled them up I must have said at least a dozen times, "When you go outside you're going to feel . . . well, cold. Let's not be surprised when that happens. It will happen. Let's also not announce to the universe when we start feeling cold. Let's be tough. Let's try to last more than 47 seconds outside." Like I said, it was repeated maybe a dozen times. And it worked. In fact, they lasted about 47 minutes outside - an Acklin record.

The snow is deeeeeep. Armpit deep on these two boys. Here is shot of Teddy stuck, and probably proclaiming to the heavens something like, "Help me, I can't move." George's suggestion to his little brother was to "swim". He said, "Swim, Teddy. Just swim through the snow." George got around pretty well. Maybe it had something to do with the plastic dollar store cowboy spurs he insisted I place over the top of his boots. I don't ask questions. Sometimes it's me that complies.

It is almost surreal the odd piles of snow on everything. If I had been more adventurous this afternoon I would have ~~run away and never stopped running~~, trudged down the street to get some more interesting pictures. We had hoped to make a snowman, but the snow was too powdery for the task. I'll have to save for another day the Pirate gear the boys collected to dress one up.

Eventually it was me who starting muttering about being cold. As the newly crowned Mother of the Year I decided to bribe them back into the house with yet another promise - hot chocolate. It was perfect timing as I discovered Teddy hopping around on one foot with only a snow-clumped sock covering the other. Somewhere under the vast expanse of powder in our yard lies one small, black, size 10 little boy's snow boot. Boot - we'll see ya in March.

operation quiet house.

2010-02-03T20:18:00.000-05:00

The General of the Acklin Army sent her youngest soldier to his barracks for a mandatory QT this afternoon, and later discovered a mass of blankets with snoring coming from the area. Mission accomplished.

antisthenes said,

2010-01-30T00:18:00.002-05:00

a parent has to do what a parent has to do.

2010-01-24T11:59:00.005-05:00

I'll set the scene for you: It's Friday night at the Acklin abode, and on the menu is homemade pizza and crockpot pumpkin custard (which Kevin is making fun of relentlessly because it has been, in fact, prepared in a crockpot). We are finishing up dinner and playing our second round of Memory when suddenly Teddy is getting a little, well, we'll lovingly label it as "challenging".

Kevin and I are patiently exploring all efforts to remedy, refocus, address, circumvent and otherwise thwart the issues related to said "challenge". Desperately, and after a decent amount of time with all attempts to reinstate civilization now exhausted, Kevin pulls out the motherlode of parental influence.

You know what I'm talking about here. The story about how if your child can't behave appropriately, a scary pirate will be immediately called who will then come to the house and take the child away on a two week journey on the wild and open seas to man him up, so to speak. Then you place a fake phone call, and at the end of the conversation you politely ask the pirate if he wouldn't mind emailing a quick picture of himself to show to the child in preparation for the journey. The email arrives and in dramatic fashion Mother screams and Father shows the child the above image of a drunken hillbilly waiting for first dibs on a camo sale in a Wal-Mart parking lot (what this has to do with the pirate is unclear.)

Now back to the Acklin abode. The convincing phone call has been placed, and revealing photograph shared and we now have one totally hysterical child (with an older brother looking on and mighty confused), begging to be affored one more opportunity to become a loving and considerate member of the family. We're talking all out Niagra Falls tears. We're talking moderate to severe shaking and twitching. We're talking flailing appendages on the floor. We're also hearing the standard outbursts: "I don't want to go!" "Save me!" "But daddy I'll need more than a little bag with a change of clothes and two pairs of socks!" Teddy now willingly offers an emotional apology to all parties involved, and as every parent knows, all oustanding issues are now unquestionably resolved. So mean . . . so, so mean.

cake wreckers.

2010-01-22T15:11:00.006-05:00

When Professional Cakes Go Horribly, Hilariously Wrong

(For when you have time to kill . . . I mean, ALOT of time to kill . . .)
~ cakewrecks.blogspot.com

look for the helpers.

2010-01-21T13:39:00.001-05:00

"When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, 'Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.' To this day, especially in times of "disaster," I remember my mother's words, and I am always comforted by realizing that there are still so many helpers -- so many caring people in this world."
-- Fred Rogers

adopt-a-grandparent.

2010-01-20T22:00:00.004-05:00

The boys and I, along with two friends - T. and M. - and their children, visit an Alzheimers unit at a local nursing home in Pittsburgh once a month. It's funny looking back on how our relationship developed. We wanted to visit a nursing home on Halloween one year to walk around in our costumes and hand out candy. I called this particular location and spoke with the activities director, G., who was more than excited to host us. After our successful visit G. said to me, "This was really great. We will see you again next month?" It was one of those questions to which you can't say no, and that was two and half years ago! We always look forward to spending an hour with our "grandmas and grandpas", and long ago discovered that when it comes to volunteer work it's ironic how it is the volunteer who receives as much as they give. We enjoy coming up with an activity for each month, and this month we made snowmen snacks out of marshmallows and other treats. It was probably better in theory, but we had fun!

The kids and my friend M. singing songs to the residents. Regardless of the season, the favorite is "Take Me Out to the Ballgame."

G. and a resident working on a marshmallow snowman.

Teddy working on his sugar-saturated creation.

Our youngest volunteer, Miss F., looking on as a resident works on their snowman. The resident holding F. was thrilled to have a little one in her arms. It was very heartwarming to witness. And Miss F. loved it too!

a prodigy, obviously.

2010-01-20T21:30:00.000-05:00

I found this stuffed in a folder in George's backpack this week:

The next Pablo Picasso, perhaps?

Femme au Chapeau a Fleurs, Woman with Flowery Hat, 1964