How to build a pool...

I thought I would share what I have learned about the pool building process. Simply follow these 8 simple steps (ok, not really all that simple), and you, too, could build a pool.

First, dig a hole, that is, if you are going for an in-ground pool.

Then, add some plumbing, electrical and steel, taking into consideration whether or not you would like some type of cleaning system in your pool, or lights, or strong walls.

Next, spray in the shotcrete and use a trowel to shape it to the exact shape that you would like the end result to be. Be sure to ask one of your kids to spray the shotcrete hourly to ensure a slow, strong cure.

If you would like, you could add some rocks, a waterfall, and/or a table. But these are completely optional. Zoe is standing there saying, "can I go swimming yet?"

I recommend installing some decking around the pool, otherwise the kids would walk right into the pool with their muddy feet. And then install a fence around the pool to protect your kids from harm.

A smooth, clean interior surface is also a nice touch.

Add water. Lots of it.

Finally, add kids. I suppose you could have a pool without kids, but that's just not the case at our house.

A few more kids makes it even more fun!

When it was up to about 80 degrees last weekend, the kids could not resist the urge to get in the water - so we said, "why not!" And they swam for about 20 minutes. We will be doing alot more of this in a few months. And you are all invited over to join us!

Tommy's first day of school

Tommy started preschool this past week! My baby boy is growing up! Maybe it is for my sake that he has such a tough time at drop-off, so I will feel needed and wanted. As soon as I leave though, he gets himself togther and has a great day of school (all 2-and-a-half hours of it). So for a short amount of time each Mon, Wed, and Friday morning, I don't have any kiddos with me. I am attempting to get a lot done during those times. Here's my big boy:

And how else would we celebrate a first day of school? None other than Twinkies all around!!! Way to go Tommy!!!

Flag Football

Jack is playing flag football for the first time. He is doing awesome! He has learned a variety of plays, both offense and defense, and played all the possible positions. It has been a joy to watch him play.

This shows how much fun was having in his first game. You can see that he is wearing his mouthguard - the league requires it.

Go Jack! He was the fake-hand-off guy - see how he is carrying a pretend football?!? I think the other team was totally taken off-guard (well, maybe)!

This photo needs to go in Jack's baby book. He was playing QB, when he completed his first ever touchdown pass!!! That's my boy!

I know that Jack isn't doing much here other than standing in ready stance, but notice the coach in the red shirt in the background with a proud smile on his face. That's because he is Jack's dad - and that look is because he truly is proud of his boy. I am too.

The Bullets are taking a snack break here between games on the double-header day. Five- and six-year-olds make the cutest football players!


Earlier today, the team (and their parents!) toughed it out through a really cold, rainy morning. After all, that is what you do in football!

Jack has one more week to go. So if you want to see my favorite football player - just come on out!