The Kazmaier's~A Crazy Blessed Life

Groundhog 10K

2012-02-05T17:30:00.002-06:00

Only 10 weeks remain until the Boston Marathon...we are thick in training and grateful for the mild winter we've been experiencing. It's made winter training much, much easier...so far. We broke out the tank tops and shorts for the 30th Annual TLC Groundhog Run last Sunday, the countries only sanctioned 5K/10K run completed entirely indoors in the Hunt Midwest Subtropolis. This is the 4th time I have competed in this race and it's always great to see so many friends compete in this sold out event as well. :)
2nd place female. 41:25 chip time (6:39 pace)

Yep, she's FOUR!

2012-01-30T17:19:00.008-06:00

A VIP interview with now, four year old Kate:

Favorite Toy: "My Ponies, Mama!"
Favorite Food: "Vegetables, Fruit & Milk" (Nothing like her mother)
Best Friend: "Adryelle & Rachel"
Favorite thing to do outside: "Ride my bike"
Favorite teacher: "Ms. Kelly"
Favorite color: "Pink"
What are you going to be when you grow up? "A mama"
Favorite movie? "Tangled" (She at first mistook my question for, "What's your favorite booty", to which she replied "mine". :)
Favoite thing to do with daddy, "To cuddle dadddy"
Favorite thing to do with mommy, "Help put away laundry" (hmmm...help?)

She's pretty amazing!

Kate's Montessori Celebration of Life

2012-01-27T16:09:00.005-06:00

Someone had a 4th birthday this week! More about that soon....

These moments make a sometimes haggard mom smile inside...and out.

2012-01-27T15:50:00.003-06:00

Just when I thought I heard it all!

2012-01-26T21:05:00.013-06:00

I work with a diverse population...education is pare for the course in that manner. I've heard every excuse imaginable as students have attempted to weasel their way out of the consequences of apathy and irresponsibility when it comes to completing school work. Really, many of my colleagues could write a book, or make a quirky calendar...and maybe actually make some money out of our career choice...hmm. Anyway, I was making routine parent phone calls this week with the purpose of communicating to parents/guardians the sad news that their student was not completing work, risking failure or removal from the course.

"Oh well, she's been really too busy to complete work over the last month because she's been taking care of the diabetic cat".

(insert sing-song voice by mom of said student)

(then insert stunned and laughable reaction by me)
True story.

Fat cat.

In all seriousness, these "excuses" from parents (yes, PARENTS) are becoming all too common these days. The expectation that teachers be responsible for more and more....yes, to primarily TEACH...but also to fill the role as social worker, counselor, psychologist....responsibility for moral and character development...and the list goes on. So yes, it frustrates me to see the public, and even our government, point the finger at inadequate educators/teachers when really, much of the decline and failure of our educational system lies at home with the decline of family structure, values and simply the investment of time into their own children.
Okay, off my soapbox...but not before I share the following article. :) http://www.cnn.com/2011/09/06/living/teachers-want-to-tell-parents/index.html

KC Milan Lion's Fury

2012-01-26T20:51:00.006-06:00

"HEY JONATHAN, TUCK YOUR SHIRT IN!!"~MOM
(yeah, you gotta look good playing the game...I mean, he already requests hair gel for every event)

Yep, even in this harsh, cold, snowy winter...wait...hold on, I'm way off...I mean mild, unseasonably warm winter, we are still kicking the ball around a bit. Indoors, that is...although the weather hasn't really prevented any chance of just being outside. I could say I would like to see even just a little snow, but quite frankly, I'm okay with this wacky winter weather. Jonathan has been enjoying playing with his team after a brief hiatus and we are thrilled that his entire undefeated U7 championship team will be back to play this spring...sporting a new name (see blog title?) The kids were asked to come up with a name.... Jon picked Fury (think "How to Train Your Dragon"). This was combined with another players pick of Lion and wa-la, we have a pretty formidable name, right?

Asking for prayer...

2012-01-25T17:11:00.005-06:00

I had the fortune to photograph this amazing family....and this beautiful little girl. Please take a moment to read the following blog about Violet's latest trial...she and her family really need the intervention of prayer right now. http://calvinandoliver.blogspot.com/

http://calvinandoliver.blogspot.com/

Christmas Day!

2011-12-27T17:45:00.006-06:00

Christmas Eve

2011-12-27T16:30:00.004-06:00

Christmas in Eudora

2011-12-27T16:14:00.006-06:00

Once again...lots of gluttony, creativity and humor to be had. :-)

Nick's Celebration of Life!

2011-12-27T16:05:00.004-06:00

Nick had his 3rd Celebration of Life at the Montessori he attends!

He was so excited to be the center of attention. Again, he walked around the candle (representing the sun) for each year of his life...stopped at Dec. to show pictures to his classmates and hear from him mom what exciting things he did each of his five years.

Nick's 5th Birthday Party!

2011-12-18T21:05:00.006-06:00

He really, really wanted an Angry Bird party. Did you know they make NOTHING Angry Birds for parties that I could find short notice (because admittedly, I don't plan way in advance for these things...I wish I was more organized)? Lots of late nights this week, but this mom delivered. Thanks to the help from my cousin, Ariel (and Todd) for helping with the cupcakes! This was the special birthday for my little Nick where he could hardly contain his excitment for the few weeks leading up to this party!

Montessori "Program"

2011-12-18T21:02:00.002-06:00

Another informal Holiday program at the Montessori...love how preschoolers prefer SHOUTING as opposed to singing. :) They did their traditional book exchange as well.

Boy Scout Christmas Party

2011-12-18T20:47:00.005-06:00

Our big Boy Scout and his brother attended the Boy Scout Christmas party with daddy...while the ladies of the family were out shopping. Nick now can't wait to be a boy scout!

Jingle Bells!

2011-12-18T20:39:00.003-06:00

Kate did a very informal dance for her dance class this past Wednesday night. She was constantly turning around giving me the BIGGEST grins and many "thumbs up". :)

Girls Christmas Shopping Weekend

2011-12-18T20:06:00.006-06:00

It's a tradition and Kate joined in this year! Mom, Katie, myself and two of the cutest girls in the family, Kate and Emma, shopped from Friday night until Sunday afternoon last weekend. Kate loves time with just mommy and the girls without "da broder's"
We even got a few Christmas pics of baby Emma. Love this baby girl!

....December fun!

2011-12-18T19:41:00.006-06:00

Love these kids!

Helping to make cookies! We even made Charlie, our shelf elf, a tiny one.

This boy has been my Holiday helper....wrapping presents, helping bake, and even with the shopping. :)

Visiting Grandpa Mac at Villa. We saw Santa, again. Nick was sure to YELL to Santa that he wanted a trash truck for Christmas.

Yes, a trash truck.

Looking good!

Always finding a way to entertain!

Seeing Santa!

2011-12-18T19:34:00.003-06:00

Our post-Thanksgiving tradition is to go to the Clinton Square for the lighting ceremony, see the lighted Christmas parade and then see Santa (for the first time of the season)

Oh my, he looks big...and a little weirded out.

Ah Nick, he realized after he never told Santa what he wanted. Never fear, he had other opportunities.

....she just couldn't do it alone. This was a little embarassing for me.

We always end the weekend celebrating Gaga's birthday. Happy Birthday, Gaga!!!

Gobbler Grind 1/2 Marathon

2011-12-18T19:22:00.003-06:00

(1:33-3rd Place)
In an effort to burn a few calories a week beforeThanksgiving, I ran Gobbler Grind 1/2 Marathon then helped one of my running partners, Melanie finish the last six miles of the marathon. It was cold and a little tough two weeks after New York. Melanie fell while running a few weeks before and shattered her finger...needing emergency surgery and four pins to repair it. She amazingly toughed it out and finished!

Holiday Card...

2011-12-10T18:29:00.001-06:00

Something smells festive around here...

2011-11-19T18:02:00.004-06:00

Other New York tidbits....

2011-11-19T17:37:00.005-06:00

1) I had breakfast on a beautiful autumn day on the boardwalk at South Street Seaport.

2) I had dinner at Marble Lane at the Dream hotel...and sat inches...INCHES....from Mario Lopez. I do have a photo to prove it! (Two days later, I ran almost an hour faster than he did in the marathon. Take that, A.C. Slater!) He is kinda cute!

3) I had THE BEST, authentic Italian dinner at Acapella in Tribecca. I felt like I was consorting with the mafia.

4) I did some damage to the budget in Soho.

5) I walked by the Occupy Wall Street encampment about 5 times...it was smelly.

6) I treated myself to a stay at the W New York Downtown...swanky!

7) I took a somber tour of the World Trade Center Memorial before heading to LGA to fly home.

New York City Marathon...by subway, by ferry, by bus and by foot.

2011-11-19T08:07:00.012-06:00

3:40 finish
Marathon #6, the ING New York City Marathon on Nov. 6th. I want to blog about it before I forget...as you may have noticed, it's been fairly quiet on this blog over the last month.
Not only did I travel to New York, but spent one day home before traveling to Indianapolis for the rest of the week.

LIFE HAS BEEN BUSY!

Sunday, November 6th, I woke at 4:45. I took the subway to South Ferry where I boarded the Staten Island Ferry, then took a bus to Ft. Wadsworth. I arrived at Ft. Wadsworth at about 6:30 am. The first wave of the race (blue, corral 10) didn't start until 9:40. It was a COLD & LONG wait. I found a nice little corner, ate a free bagel and sipped on some Dunkin Donuts coffee (I don't typically drink coffee...but it was warm). At around 8am, I surrendered my race bag, my cell phone and some of my warm gear to the UPS trucks who would haul it all to the finish in Central Park. I entered the corral at 8:30, sat for an hour.... then the walk to the start began. Mayor Bloomburg said a few encouraging words, the national anthem was sung, New York, New York blared thru the speakers and the canon sounded...the trek across the Verrazano bridge began...probably the ethereal moment of the race for me. Looking out over the water with the morning sun shining brightly, helicopters capturing video from above and the excitement of the next 26 miles through the five Burroughs of the city of New York with 47,000 other runners from all over the world. The weather (a perfect 50 degrees) could not have been more suitable for a marathon). I took advice from a friend and put my name on the front of my shirt and felt as though I had the whole city of New York cheering and chanting for me. I was so impressed with the spectators of this race...always 5-10 people deep the entire time, fabulous motivating and humorous signs, and the diversity that makes NYC so great. The finish was magical...the crowds make you feel like your winning the race!

This was by far my favorite marathon experience.
(and I think I'll actually run this one again)
Next up?

BOSTON

in April!

Halloween! (Finally...)

2011-11-01T18:05:00.001-05:00

KC Kids Marathon!

2011-10-17T17:57:00.004-05:00

After running the half marathon, I joined my three groupies for the KC Kids Marathon. All three have joined the running club at Manor Hill Elementary every Friday morning since school began in preparation for this amazing event.

Getting warmed up

....YOGA!

Pumpkin' Patchin' it....KS style

2011-10-17T12:21:00.009-05:00

Liberty Corn Maze

2011-10-17T12:14:00.003-05:00

Friday night fun!

Cousin Ariel joined in the crazy fun!

Kate lasted about 30 min.

Jon was our die-hard corn maze conqueror!

STOP! PLEASE STOP!

We'll never find you.....

Baby Emma!

2011-10-07T09:24:00.003-05:00

I have to openly admit...I'm jealous that my sister got the mellow baby....the happy baby....in fact, I think likely the happiest baby on the planet!

Painting Pumpkins

2011-10-07T09:21:00.001-05:00

It's our little messy tradition.

Randomness!

2011-10-07T09:08:00.003-05:00

Our chalk art

Daddy and his favorite gal

Jonathan was quite proud that he put this together ALL BY HIMSELF...he wouldn't let me touch it or even look at it until it was finished. He amazes me.

Nothing better than love from my babies.

Nick and Kate playing soccer while Jonathan had a recent game in Ray Pec

Nick and Cousin Ariel....he LOVES her.

Jonathan with his game face on

Alldrege Apple Orchard

2011-10-07T09:01:00.004-05:00

A great opportunity to spend a beautiful (although warm) fall day with Meme and Papa picking apples, chasing chickens, riding trikes, petting goats, poking kittens, and playing house.

Cerner 15K

2011-10-07T08:42:00.003-05:00

I represented Jason (his workplace...anyway!) by competing in the first annunal Cerner SlimDown Challenge 15K race at the new LIVESTRONG Sporting Park Soccer Complex at the Legends in Kansas City. It was an amazing flat course that ended in the stadium...loved having my groupies waiting for me at the end. :)

1:04-8th place woman (1st in age group-6:56 pace)

Circus

2011-10-07T08:25:00.005-05:00

RINGLING BROS AND BARNUM AND BAILY CIRCUS-Birthday Bash-Sprint Center

On a whim, Marie and I loaded up 6 kids and headed to the circus late Saturday morning. We are sooooo brave!

This speaks volumes!

Baby Tate crashed!

Blog Purge!

2011-10-07T08:17:00.002-05:00

....wait for it. It's coming...probably all within the next hour. We haven't fallen off the face of the earth...rather LIFE has kept this family of five BUSY for the last month. We enjoyed the Barnum and Bailey Circus with friends, celebrated the 50th Anniversary of Jonathan's Elementary school where I spent a day helping over 150 kids tye-dye t-shirts for the big week-long celebration, we've started soccer, continued dance, begun Boy Scouts, taken a short break from fencing, been participating in the Manor Hill Running Club to prepare for the KC Kid's Marathon, and just last weekend, enjoyed movie night watching Rio in the Elementary School gym, went to the Apple Orchard and the KC Pumpkin Patch. I truely love this time of year!

YES!

2011-09-16T16:44:00.000-05:00

Adding more pictures from Sunday!

2011-08-30T17:21:00.002-05:00

LOVE this one!

The North Face Endurance Challenge

2011-08-29T10:20:00.008-05:00

....a challenge indeed. Although one of the most scenic races throughout Kansas City, it was HILLY...but I did manage finished in 3rd place right in front of the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art (even if wasn't a stellar time). It was a GORGEOUS day for a race. I used this raced as a training run for NYC and I'm feeling it today...just about everywhere. I did still go to yoga and it hurt so good! And OH..............this girl is touching her toes! Yes. My nasty toes. I can touch them. A small victory to some, but HUGE for me. It only took 12 weeks of yoga to get there!

Anyway....the kids competed in the Dean Karnazes kids race. If you don't know who this guy is, just google him! He has some amazing and quirky running accolades....like running 50 marathons, in 50 states in 50 consecutive days. Oh, but he didn't stop there...he ran his last of the 50 marathons in NYC then ran all the way back to St. Louis (1300 additional miles). CRAZY...but inspiring! He is all about healthy living and his initiative of "No Child Left Inside"...a movement to get kids OUTSIDE and active. The kids ran the 1K and all of them ran the entire way. Jason and I were very proud parents and the kids were elated to finish and get their very own medal.

Back to School!

2011-08-29T10:07:00.005-05:00

I'm a week late posting (with all the chaos of the new school year and daddy out of the country for work), but Jonathan started school, too! He LOVES 1st grade...and thinks his teacher is pretty cute! He also had his first U7 soccer game and scored 3 points....more importantly, he had a BLAST.

Preschool!

2011-08-16T17:24:00.003-05:00

Sooooooo excited to start up school again!

Not so excited when they realized mom was leaving them. Guess 12 weeks off makes one forget how it all goes down during the school year.

Sneaky Sleepers

2011-08-16T17:21:00.005-05:00

Although at different times of the night/morning, they all end up in our bed. Can't help but smile in the morning!

Ladies Night Out

2011-08-16T16:56:00.004-05:00

Amy, Melanie, Lisa, Ashley, Marie & Emily

I have AMAZING friends...especially my running partners. I think about this often actually, but I do realize... you know... my weekly running partners likely know more about me and my life than many of my best friends do. They see me every morning at the godawful time of 5am (sometimes earlier)...usually 5 days a week. I tell them everything! From doctors appointments, family/work frustrations & celebrations, and crazy Saturday night shenanigans. I'm sure I bore them with uninteresting blabbering but I spend about 2 miles trying to tell my senseless stories anyway (how annoying is that?). And they put up with it and have yet to tell me to shut up. :) I am appreciative that I have them in my life...I'd otherwise I'd sleep in every single morning and be fat and insane.

Anyway....I say all that to say that we traded in our running shoes recently for a night on the town!

Finally!

2011-08-10T13:31:00.003-05:00

This boy was GIDDY about this. :)

WIN for KC Triathlon

2011-08-07T16:49:00.004-05:00

I confess, I did not like the swim. Sitting for an hour and a half while a storm front delayed the start...watching lightening and hearing thunder all around then jumping into murky lake water...made me a little apprehensive. Although running is my first love, it's kinda fun having a little variety!

It officially starts now.

2011-08-05T21:19:00.004-05:00

After competing in my very first triathlon (post to follow...I didn't drown), NYC Marathon training begins with a long run tomorrow. I'm sad I don't have my running partners joining me on this one, but I'm looking forward to checking this one off my bucket list nevertheless!!!

Chuck E. Cheese. mouse or rat?

2011-07-28T09:32:00.009-05:00

I have to confess, this place is a little over the top...but then this was about my little guy and he had a BLAST being the center of attention with some of his very best friends.

Jonathan on the big screen (video below). That's allllllllll him! Oh. my.

SIX!? Say it ain't so...

2011-07-28T09:19:00.006-05:00

I was sad that I missed his actual birthday as I was traveling for work, but I did sneak out of one of my sessions, found an internet lounge and Skyped with him while he opened one of his presents. Daddy was sure to make a big deal out of the day by getting him a cake. We celebrated with family over the weekend when I returned. I can't believe how much this boy has grown and matured this past year. His obsessions continue to be legos and video games, and asking those deep questions I sometimes am at a loss as to how to answer... I love everything about this spunky, sometimes moody, little boy who still continues to hold my hand, sneak into my bedroom at night for one last kiss, and tell me I'm pretty.

BlackBoard World-Vegas

2011-07-28T08:44:00.006-05:00

I was fortunate to attend BlackBoard World in Las Vegas for a week in mid-July with the North Kansas City Schools. I am obviously a big advocate of online learning and love the BlackBoard Learning Management System as I've worked with it for over 5 years and have taken graduate courses using the system as well. The Keynote speakers were phenomenal and included Steven Johnson, best-selling author of "Where Good Ideas Come From," "Everything Bad is Good for You," and "Emergence," as well as Sir Ken Robinson, Author, Creativity Expert and Thinker. I took a lot away from the experience, much of which will benefit the students I serve.

The execs even knew how to take the Vegas/Hangover theme and have a little fun with it!

Where we stayed

View from the hotel room.

Got in a little pooltime

Old Glory Days 2011 Carnival and Fireworks

2011-07-05T19:36:00.008-05:00

Old Glory Days 2011 Parade & BBQ

2011-07-05T19:17:00.006-05:00

Getting ready to head to Clinton....they were sooooo excited all day long.

BBQ with cousins, Miles and Brice

A very LONG and HOT parade!

What's not to love about the 4th of July? I just love grilling with family...and making our way to the town square to see the parade. And then when evening falls... going to the carnival on the square as well as taking in all of the colors from the fireworks display. It's definitely one of my favorite holidays! I think the kids are smitten, too!

Old Glory Days 5K

2011-07-05T16:30:00.010-05:00

I haven't run this race in a few years. I believe this was my 4th time. In fact, last year Jason ran the 5K. We decided (okay...so really I decided), we'll do an every other year thing. Go Jason!

I actually ran the very first Old Glory Days 5K eighteen years ago. Eighteen years ago???? I was just 17 and had graduated from high school...preparing for my 1st year of collegiate running. Yeah...I was A LOT faster then. Three kids and several years later, it was great to see my old coaches still volunteering their time to raise money for the high school cross country team I was once a part of. The KATY trail wasn't developed when I was in high school...oh how nice it would have been to have a flat, traffic-less stretch to run.

Once again, I had my #1 fan there to see me off...my Dad. He told me to whip up on the men! At the end, I had three little patriotic cheerers awaiting my sweaty, slow arrival...in first place. This 35 year old bag still has it...and much to the pleasure of my father, I did whip up on a few men! :)

I can do it. I really can.

2011-06-29T15:33:00.004-05:00

I'm not fond of him traveling...I miss my partner. We make a pretty good team, Jason and I. Yes, I can handle parenting on my own. Fact is, I'm just not used to it. We are great at dividing and conquering all the demands of parenting three busy kids. What I really love is taking initiative to step back lately. Yes...parenting is our main priority in life, as it should be. We wouldn't have it any other way. However, we've finally hit that stage in life where we don't feel guilty stepping out and spending time away from the kids. Our vacation away was a bit of a stretch, I admit. It was hard on this mama to be away for that long...but getting out 2 or 3 times a month is very beneficial. :)

(Dinner last week in celebration of neighbor and running partner, Amy's birthday at Fogo De Chao's on the Plaze...YUM!)

Let's Dance

2011-06-27T13:12:00.004-05:00

She did an AMAZING job for a little 3 year old, really. I confess, I didn't think she had it in her...terrible to admit, I know! HA! I was worried she would freeze up or just be WAY OFF her peers as she refused to practice with me...and Lord knows I'm of no help when it comes to rhythm & coordination.

I was quite impressed, however....a proud mom to see her little independent, happy dancer.

I think my smile was bigger than hers, though.

Always beaming with a pageant smile!
Oh my!

It was adorable to see her standing for the final bow...the music was pumping, the girls were dancing, jumping and screaming. I could tell Kate was having a blast...which is what it is all about, afterall.

She was even picked to draw the name for a special award. :)

Fencing

2011-06-26T11:15:00.004-05:00

They love it! They whack each other with the foil, ignoring all rules.
Too much Jack Sparrow, I think. What a patient instructor.

Man, I love my boys!

While we were away....

2011-06-26T11:07:00.004-05:00

...on vacation, the kids were having a blast with their grandparents. Even though I was far away in Mexico on my 35th birthday, they still baked a cake and sang Happy Birthday. Sweetest thing ever!

Thanks mom & dad...and Jerry and Gloria for helping with the kids.

These are my "birthday" flowers as they have bloomed in the same spot around my birthday for as long as I can remember. Pretty special picture!

Cancun

2011-06-17T15:12:00.016-05:00

After 12 years of marriage, Jason and I finally got away for a week...thanks to our family for watching our little ones. Our stay was at Sun Palace (couples-only), HERE one of the many Palace Resorts in Cancun. We have determined that all-inclusive is the way to go as we were treated like royalty from the time we arrived to the time to departed. We were upgraded to the concierge level which afforded us free massages, dinner on the beach, a concierge to take care of all our plans as well as beach chairs reserved with our names. I admit I was skeptical about going to Mexico due to safety concerns, but quickly learned there is absolutely nothing to fear given the seclusion and security of the area. We look forward to going back SOON and bringing the kids with us...it was just that amazing.

Our room had a breathtaking view of the water....and the pool. If your a people watcher like I am...it was very entertaining at times!

Dinner on the beach was perfection...watching the sun set on a perfect summer evening.

We spent the only rainy day in Chichen-Itza...which also happened to be my birthday. The rain, we were told, was quite a respite from the 100 degree plus temperatures on a typical day in June at Chichen. I have to admit, it was astounding to be surrounded by that much history. Our tour guide, Simon, was phenomenal!

After we returned from Chichen-Itza and had hot showers, I was surprised to find a birthday cake and a bottle of champagne courtesy of the hotel. We ordered room service in and the hotel staff sang. :)

I was still on the clock part-time...so I found a nice comfy location to work.

This is where I met pure joy...the beach, a good book, my ipod and my honey.

I was treated with two massages, a facial and a pedicure. This mama was SPOILED!

We got tired of asking people to take our picture together...so we improvised. (not well)

We ended our getaway with a random first-class upgrade out of Cancun.

Perfection!

Ahhhhhhh!

2011-06-15T18:03:00.003-05:00

Having a wonderful time...missing our kids, but enjoying some quality time together.
(And Jason is CRISPY!)

Sunburst Marathon

2011-06-08T15:02:00.010-05:00

6 a.m. (5 a.m. to our CST bodies!)
The finish line never looked so good! (And hey, I'm still standing)

They didn't call it the Sunburst Marathon for nuthin'!

First off, shout out to my amazing husband for taking over this weekend so mama could have a girls weekend! Am I not married to the most supportive husband and amazing father ever? Love him!

This weekend started out with a 9 hour drive to South Bend, Indiana on Friday and ended with a 9 hour drive back to K.C. on Sunday. In between...a lot of laughs, 26.2 miles in 85+ degree heat, exhaustion, sore muscles, chaffing, blisters, a massage, pool/hottub time, a fabulous dinner and one hard night of sleep!

More about the race...it began at 6 a.m. at the College Football Hall of Fame in downtown South Bend, Indiana and ended on the field of Notre Dame Stadium. Although it wasn't my fastest of the five marathon's I've run, I did place 10th and earned another Boston qualifying time. Can't be too upset with that considering it was ultimately a black flagged course due to the extreme heat. (which means it was eventually a closed course and remaining runners were picked up). Two of my other 3 friends also qualified again for Boston next April...so now I have company! YAY!

Slacker Recap!

2011-06-08T14:38:00.007-05:00

Our summer is getting off to a great start...which is why I've neglected to post for a while. Such a blog binger!

Jonathan finished school a couple of weeks ago...and thought it was pretty cool to get on the bus a kindergartner the morning of his last day only to get off the bus as a first grader. :) He is now in Summer Adventure with all his neighborhood friends leaving Nick, Kate and I to frolic at home until his day ends.

The boys started fencing lessons this week at Heartland Fencing Academy...and cried when we left because they were having that much fun. It's a 30 min drive through downtown to Overland Park (during rush hour no less), but totally worth it.

Kate continues to practice for her first dance recital in a couple of weeks at the Kearney Performing Arts Center. I'm not sure dancing is her niche, but she absolutely loves it!

]

Happy National Running Day!

2011-06-01T08:27:00.002-05:00

P/T Conferences

2011-05-19T08:19:00.009-05:00

An entire year has gone by...and a final round of parent-teacher conferences for Nick and Kate at their Montessori. Not sure why...but these things make me nervous.

I sat in a little chair, trying to balance uncomfortably on one cheek, not knowing what exactly to expect. Then it dawned on me: how do my children really behave when we're not around? Are they repeating stuff? Saying or doing embarrassing things. What exactly? Afterall, it was just last week when Kate lifted up her preschool teachers skirt on the playground (in front of me...in front of everyone) and asked, "You got any panties on under der?" Legitimate question. Very awkward moment. And....it was just yesterday morning when Nick pointed to his cute little Elmo underwear and said, "Der's a big pee pee in der! The biggest pee pee at school..." Oh really? (Daddy was laughing hysterically. Mommy was stunned and clamoring for an appropriate response).

I don't care to hear whether or not my children are "brilliant" or "advanced". Really. For both Jason and I, average is GREAT! Nick is right on target academically according to the Bracken School Readiness Test. Kate apparently loves to sing (LOUDLY) while she works, enjoys painting the most, and apparently yells "WALK AWAY!" to boys who get too close.

(Dear Kate, your mama wants you to keep saying that until you're.......oh...about twenty)
My perfect pair from their first day of preschool last August.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-18T06:50:00.001-05:00

A late Mother's Day post

2011-05-17T14:32:00.006-05:00

In my opinion...the real work of motherhood started for me when my kids' reasoning ability kicked in. When it was no longer about merely keeping them alive and sustaining them from day to day (or nap to nap in my case).

Wait…you mean..I…have to…ya know…teach them? Correct them? I have to raise them to be morally responsible, compassionate citizens of this great big world... who contribute to society in a positive way?

*gulp*

I love being with my kids. I love doing the fun things with them. Going to the Zoo, playing at the park, watching movies. I love to do the activity of life with my kids. But the day to day training that’s imperative to their development? Not my favorite part of mothering.

In fact, the day to day instruction has always been a bit intimidating to me. The business of training them to be respectful and obedient. It’s really hard! Give me a fussy newborn over an insolent young child any day of the week.

Can I get an Amen?

You see, I like to sprint through life. But guess what? It’s hard to sprint when there are three little ones whose legs aren’t as long as yours. My metaphor is getting a little rough, but notice how I can tie running into this. Stay with me…

Although it's always been difficult for me to redirect my future-oriented focus, I’ve spent the better part of the last few months trying to slow down. Live in the moment. Embrace and soak in this time of life. I tend to equate down time with idleness. "Oh, the kids are entertaining themselves...I can get laundry folded, or unload dishes". Instead, I've made a concerted effort to get outside with them...push them on the swings, go for a short walk with them. Just be with them. Sometimes it’s simply sitting and reading a book to the kids in the middle of the day. It’s good for them and, you know what? It’s good for me.

I’m finally beginning to really enjoy the art of motherhood. The hard part. I’m even getting excited about it. I know, right? It’s about time. I’m looking forward to and excited about the process of training them. I look forward to praying for them and being with them. I’m so excited for this summer to just be.

I know it will be tiring and exhausting and hard. It always is. It is, and always will be, my REAL job. But I love the hard. I love the tiring. I’m learning to love the process. I’m learning to sit, to be still, to play Barbies, to have imaginary tea parties, to read books, to live every day life. I’m finally enjoying that part of motherhood a little more. Fewer schedules, more free time, more playtime. I’m slowing down my pace and finally giving my kids a chance to catch up.

This is a great place to be.

On Guard!

2011-05-17T08:36:00.005-05:00

I truly believe God gave little boys powerful imaginations to make up for their powerlessness
over what’s for breakfast. And lunch. And dinner.

For the last few weeks our home has been engaged in serious sword play inspired by watching Princess Bride. No one has “died a thousand deaths” yet, but we've had plenty of casualties (including some glass lanterns that met an early death...somehow "Tilly did it!"...ya know, the dog locked in the kennel). Playing pretend takes real flexibility. The script changes rapidly. Instructions fly from every corner of the room from Nick to Jonathan....from Jonathan to Nick. I never know if they are pirates or knights...but it's serious business rescuing princess Kate.

Do I want to encourage violence? No. Do I want to encourage something that my boys find fun and entertaining? Yes.

Fencing lessons begin June 1st.

Oh.
My.

After School Special

2011-05-10T11:51:00.002-05:00

...another segment of typical quirky afternoon in our home. I've said it before...I am a blogger who happens to be a mom. Write what you know, correct? Well right now, I know Mom-ing. (I could have written I know Motherhood but turning “Mom” into a verb sounded like more fun.) So I’m going to write about Mom-ing, and all the other stuff that interests me that doesn’t involve my kids...which isn’t a lot because I’m kind of in the trenches of this Mom thing.

So once again, I’m posting about my kids, because dang it, my kids are funny. Maybe they’re only funny to me and their grandparents, but I don’t care. I want to remember the cute and funny things my kids do so I can look back ten years later and smile…and...humiliate them. It’s a scrapbook that yields sweet revenge, right?

I’m only half way kidding.

Kindergarten Music Program

2011-05-09T15:04:00.003-05:00

More Soccer

2011-05-09T14:56:00.003-05:00

Daddy stepped in to coach this game.

A match made in heaven

2011-04-28T21:57:00.002-05:00

Yes, she made them kiss.

"This is just a phase. This car does not define me."

2011-04-28T18:17:00.003-05:00

You know those sticker families on the back? Two parents, 3.5 kids, 2 dogs and a cat? I will NEVER be THAT mom.

Don't get me wrong. I'm not ashamed to admit that I covet the big wide open space between my often three unruly passengers. The tanalizing remote doors *sigh* and the room to move around while on a road trip *pitter patter*, the dvd player *tear streaming down face*. Yes...minivans just scream "mom". However, as a now 2nd time minivan owner, I'm learning that I quite frankly don't care if someone thinks I'm a mom because, well...I am. Yes, I nearly cried when we bought our first one. Did I EVER think I'd buy another? No way, but...it's function before form for a few years, as lame & uncool as that may seem to some.

However, if I had to, I would divorce Mr. K and marry my sweet new ride.
Seriously.
I would be wearing my flip flops and sweat pants during our ceremony. Then we would ride off into the sunset...to a soccer game.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-27T18:34:00.002-05:00

A whole lotta Easter

2011-04-25T16:52:00.008-05:00

Eggs

2011-04-25T16:12:00.006-05:00

Am I the only adult who still gets excited about coloring eggs? With three small children, we've traditionally just done the whole PAAS dye tablet thing. (Yes, I'm too chicken to attempt some of the ridiculously crafty projects with them.) I know the dye is messy and can stain both clothes and skin...but to see their creativity makes it totally worth it. We added a little glitter, stickers and other bling to trick out our eggs this year. No, they're not "boutique" eggs, but are they not the quirkiest little egg people ever?

Seattle

2011-04-18T18:53:00.011-05:00

My job took me to Seattle for work this past weekend to take another exam granting me full teaching certification for the State of Washington.

In a way, this trip was a clouded and brisk walk down memory lane. The last time I was in the Seattle area I was just seven years old. I vaguly remember my parents ushering me onto an airplane all by myself and sending me to Seattle to spend a few weeks with my grandmother and grandfather over the summer. I was actually quite amazed by how much I remember from that visit, 28 years later. My grandmother's rose bushes, raspberry jam, my grandfather's cigars, the neighborhoods kids, my first Shirley Temple and Return of the Jedi.

The best part of this return trip was having the opportunity to spend a little time with my Aunt Sandy and Uncle Jimmy. Thank you SO MUCH for the tour of Seattle and for an amazing seafood dinner at Anthonly's, a place I was told was a favorite of my grandmother's. I had a quirky, but very entertaining & informative, tour of Seattle on "The Duck". I was able to visit what once was my grandparents home in Bellevue as well as my grandmother's grave. It meant so much to me to spend time with both of you. Thank you, again.

And this lucky wife and mother (who got incredibly misty coming home after being away from her babies for three days) came home to flowers, a cake, a million hugs and kisses and a clean house. I am one blessed woman! I say Mr. Mom did an incredible job flying solo...but he did conclude that I do far more than he ever realized. :)

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-13T16:00:00.005-05:00

Okay....not totally wordless. Jonathan and I took a spring tour of the yard after school and these are photos of all that is in bloom at the Kazmaier's.

(I spy a bumblebee...Jonathan ran for cover!)

Can you tell I'm smitten?

2011-04-12T22:10:00.003-05:00

I had the chance to relieve my sister for a bit on Monday so I snapped a few pictures...I know it's a LOT of work, but I miss this stage...

(Aunt Sandy...LOVE this blanket!)

Do you see that?

2011-04-10T20:55:00.004-05:00

The green return? Spring is definitely my favorite season of the year. I love summer but in the Midwest, it can get too hot and sticky. Winter is always beautiful, but LONG and I'm not a fan of being stuck inside all the time with the cold, dreary and grey weather it can bring. Fall is beautiful as well with bonfires, football and camping...but it starts getting chillier and you know winter is right around the corner. Spring is perfect though. Spring is hopeful. The sun finally arrives for good. The warmth makes you smile. With spring comes thunderstorms and the smell of a fresh rain, the scent and beauty of flowering spring trees, the daffodils and tulips coming out to play, the smell of the season's first cut grass and the sound of croaking frogs in the backyard creek. Grilling, running in a t-shirt and shorts, and wearing flip flops (which reminds me that I need a pedicure...BADLY). Spring this glorious April weekend brought many of these things...hours in the sandbox, on the swings, running through the sprinklers, riding bikes, playing near the creek, stubbed toes, ice cream, filthy bodies and late nights hanging in the driveway in lawn chairs with several neighbors while the kids had deserved reprieve from curfews and bedtime. Reminiscent of my own childhood...they ran around in the cul-de-sac illuminated by the street light wielding toy swords and chasing monsters (Oh, those were the boys. Kate and her little girlfriend took turns tossing their babies in the air and rolling around in the grass). That's what I call.....perfection.

KC Milan

2011-04-09T18:59:00.003-05:00

Jonathan scored 6 goals this morning at his first soccer game of the season...sweaty and tired, he told me he can't wait for his next game.

Kate just snacked and chilled...and snacked some more.

Nick did quite the stellar victory dance when he scored his first two goals of the season........... for the wrong team.

He was none the wiser. :-)

Rock the Parkway-April 2nd, 2011

2011-04-06T15:37:00.006-05:00

A perfect morning for a 1/2 marathon. Rock the Parkway is run along Ward Parkway and over to Loose Park...a relatively flat course. I ran this one last year in 40 degrees and rain...a much better experience than last year...and 6 minutes faster!

In fact, 3 out of the four ladies I train with every morning ran personal bests.

(Great job, Marie, Amy and Traci!)

I absolutely love running this time of year.

1:33 (7:08 pace)

14th place overall women

2011 Brew-to-Brew Relay

2011-04-05T09:28:00.007-05:00

On Sunday, these ten amazing supermom's (and police officers, detectives, teachers and businesswomen) gathered in support of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation to run the 44 mile relay from Boulevard Brewing Co. in Kansas City to Free State Brewery in Lawrence, KS (my old stompin' ground). What's also amazing is the fact that most of them competed in the Rock the Parkway 1/2 marathon the day before. Typically, Brew-to-Brew is known for snow, rain, sleet...this year, 90 degrees and 45 mph wind gusts.

My three favorite neighbors and running partners below...Marie, Amy and Traci.

(...and our Kryptonite baton)

...at the end with my Crossfit partner, Tamara

Up the creek...

2011-04-04T19:19:00.008-05:00

Inevitably, the boys have discovered the creek that goes behind our home in this part of the neighborhood. They have a bridge now so they can cross into the back wooded portion of the lot and have explored the creek. Nick and his friend, Mason, found themselves in quite the predicament last Friday when they were both stuck in mud up to their shins. The mud eventaully sucked their shoes right off their feet....I eventually had to go in for the rescue of shoes, literally digging throught the mud to find them. It's gonna be a long, dirty summer.

Rolling, rolling, rolling....

2011-04-04T18:58:00.005-05:00

We had a taste of summer this past weekend...only to be disappointed today.

We'll take what we can get.

The grass is finally greening up...and Nick and Kate had fun rolling down the hills...and then cried because they were itchy. ;-)

Jonathan and neighbor, Calen

More on Emma...

2011-04-01T09:32:00.007-05:00

They love their Uncle Mark (affectionately called...."Markle Sparkles"

Nick is the most smitten with Emma. He says he can't wait to love on her again.

Kate...not so sure about the crying part.

And...this is why we didn't stay long. :-)

Welcome Emma Claire

2011-03-29T11:58:00.005-05:00

Some people collect coins. Others, stamps. Apparently, I collect nieces and nephews. Fortunately, for me, my sister allowed me to jump into the double digits! Yesterday I became an Aunt again (for the 10th time). My sister, Katie, was a superstar. There are no words that describe just how happy I am for her and her new family, and after experiencing heartache and trials along the way, I know the arrival of this new baby has very special meaning for her.

Introducing

Emma Claire

March 28th 2011

7# 2 oz 18 1/2 "

4:02 pm

This new baby will have many loving people in it’s life!

Confessions of a slacking blogger...

2011-03-25T08:56:00.011-05:00

It has been a while! I know that I've been slacking on the blog for the past couple of months but it has definitely not carried over into the rest of my life. In fact I cant even believe that March is almost over and I have not blogged about the exciting things happening. (Not to mention all the wacky personal things rolling around in my head). I never intended for this blog to be a mere photo album, but guiltily, I've really only had time to post photos and video from time to time. I’m super excited, however, for this spring and summer, but still, I’ve been a bad blogger… scold worthy, actually. Silly me because I’VE GOT SO MUCH TO SHARE! But now that I sit down, open up the blog and start writing, I’m getting antsy cause I just don’t know where to start.

The past month has been filled with ballet for Kate, swim lessons 2X a week for all three kids and soccer starts next week (and t-ball next month). I'm turning into the ultimate soccer mom with the disgusting van. :-

Kate has her first recital in late June at the Kearney Performing Arts Center and the costume we had to purchase screams Toddlers & Tiara's (but we'll rant about that one later). She was very apprehensive at first and I attribute that to her never doing anything independent of her "almost" Irish twin, Nick. Now she ushers me away as she enters the dance room.

Jonathan had one of his first big school fundraisers (cookie dough). I was reminded of attending Holy Rosary Catholic School and working hard with my brothers and sister to sell a ridiculous amount of cheese and sausage to get enough points to win a VCR for our family. A big deal!

Nick asks everyday when he can play t-ball. I keep telling him when the grass turns green and there are leaves on the trees...we're almost there little buddy!

I've signed up for the Sunburst Marathon with my 3 running girlfriends the first weekend in June. The race takes place in South Bend, Indiana and finishes on the football field at Notre Dame. I was also accepted into the New York City Marathon in early November and am excited to stay with my friend, Lora, while I'm there. How I'm going to find the time to train for two consecutive marathons, I don't know, but I'm grateful for the amazing training partners I have in this neighborhood.

Jason and I are finally getting away for a vacation ALONE in June and heading to Cancun. (Dad, quit sending me articles about shark attacks, please) :-)

And the biggest news of all....I'm going to be an aunt for the 10th time on Monday! That's right...my sister, Katie, is being induced! Can't wait!!!

I plan to get back on a somewhat decent schedule when it comes to blogging and quit slacking off. I’m not going to commit to a set schedule as we all know, sometimes life gets in the way, but I do plan on writing quite a bit more. Just keep your eyes open for the upcoming posts!

Nick had an ear infection and had some special mommy time for two days. We tried to make a kite on Wednesday because it was incredibly windy. It didn't fly well, but it was fun nevertheless!

Boy does this photo (below) show their personalities? This is life!

Fun with the WebCam

2011-03-04T11:13:00.003-06:00

Flashback Friday

2011-03-04T08:14:00.005-06:00

The boys...

2011-02-28T16:11:00.006-06:00

Nick's passion? Trains. After 2 years, he is still obsessed with his trains.

Jonathan's passion? Legos. They are EVERYWHERE. He creates for hours and it's amazing to both see & hear his imagination at work.

Kate's passion? Torture. Yes. She's perfected the art of torture. Take the trains from Nick and run as fast as she can with him in hot pursuit. Or...the minute Jonathan's back is turned, destroy the ship he's spent 30 minutes perfecting.

Girls...

A black eye and random ramblings...

2011-02-24T19:08:00.003-06:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-02-16T11:26:00.002-06:00

Happy Valentines Day!

2011-02-14T14:48:00.006-06:00

School parties....crafts, snacks and Valentines.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-02-09T15:03:00.002-06:00

Rock Chalk Jayhawk, Go KU!

2011-02-07T15:00:00.001-06:00

I try to teach them where their loyalty should lie.

Pretty Woman

2011-02-06T14:50:00.002-06:00

We did it...she rises early and watches mommy get ready every morning. She plays with my make-up brushes, douses herself in lotion and adorns herself with my jewelry. She had been asking for holes in her ears like mommy for quite some time. I explained to her that I was four years old when I had mine pierced and that it hurt. She continued to insist she would be "brave" so...we had a ladies night out last Saturday at Zona Rosa and shopped at Old Navy and Gap for some new clothes (and ended up with A LOT of PINK) and then went to Claire's to do the deed. She picked out little pink crystal flowers, and although she did cry for about 5 seconds, she immediately told me she was going to tell daddy how brave she was. She ran into the house to show her brothers. Her sweet older brother, Jonathan, looked at her and sweetly told me his little sister "looked pretty and like a big girl". :)

Children's TLC Groundhog Run 2011

2011-01-31T12:17:00.004-06:00

A day after an icy plunge into Longview Lake, I ran the TLC Groundhog Run again this year (3rd year in a row). The Children’s TLC Groundhog Run is believed to be the only 5k/10k race in the nation that is totally underground (in the Hunt Midwest SubTropolis). With a consistent temperature of 65 to 68 degrees, one can ditch the running pants, jackets, hats and gloves in favor of shorts and a tank top. Approximately 3,500 runners competed in this annual winter event.

Running partners Amy and Traci.
High school friend, Phillip

Greeted by my 3 biggest fan at the end of the 10K. :)

9th overall (600 women) 2nd in age group.

43:54 (7:04 pace)

Special Olympics Polar Plunge 2011

2011-01-31T12:03:00.004-06:00

Yes, it was COLD. Yes, they had to take power tools and axes to the ice on Longview Lake, and Yes, it was a BLAST. Team SuperWomen were able to raise over $1300 together in support of the Missouri Special Olympics!

We make it look warm out...it was, in fact, not warm AT ALL!

Guess who started dance?

2011-01-28T12:54:00.002-06:00

She cried when I said she couldn't wear her "tappy tap shoes" to school.

Nick cried when I told him he wasn't ever getting any "tappy tap" shoes....

As if we didn't celebrate enough....

2011-01-28T12:47:00.004-06:00

We had cake Tuesday night as a family to celebrate Kate's birthday, again. :)

Celebration of Life-Stepping Stones Montessori

2011-01-28T12:29:00.008-06:00

Kate had her turn at the Celebration of Life Ceremony to honor her 3rd birthday. I just LOVE, LOVE, LOVE how birthday's are celebrated Montessori style.

(And could I possibly have been more careless in my choice of snack? All the the children were stained pink and red)

Birthday Girl~Little bit of sugar, whole lotta spice!

2011-01-28T11:29:00.011-06:00

I remember how quickly my little gal arrived in this world...all pink, chubby and with faux-hawk of jet black hair. Knowing she was most certainly my last child, I remember breathing in her baby smell, marveling at her tiny hands, kissing her amazingly soft cheeks, tracing the outline of her perfect lips with my finger and holding her close. They grow too quickly. I'm becoming more aware that three year old's don't sit for very long...I miss baby Kate sometimes. Always on the go. Although no longer a needy baby....she challenges me daily in new ways. She has growing
independence, free-will and the duality of being both a feisty and affectionate little girl.

I love her spirit.

Happy 3rd Birthday, sweet girl!

You are everything we had hoped for in a daughter and so much more. Having you in our lives has changed us profoundly. Sorry for the sappy post, but anytime your youngest has another birthday and you realize how quickly they are growing up.....you're allowed to be sappy!!!

My big cheesy 3 year old.

Post party blues!

Baking with my bestie

2011-01-28T11:13:00.002-06:00

Kate was very grumpy after her nap, but we decided to remedy that by baking cookies together. Jonathan helped too...and Nick...well, he quietly dumped a carton of eggs on the floor behind me.

Snow, Snow..go away!

2011-01-25T15:04:00.003-06:00

Okay, so maybe that's my chant. Not a big fan of winter, but the kids have had a blast with our Midwestern winter wonderland. We are fortunate that we have great sledding hills right in our own backyard...but one must be careful or you're dumped in the creek.