Baby #4 and More

School Days

2011-10-13T07:51:00.000-07:00

Can't believe the kids have been in school long enough to get progress reports already. Everyone is doing fine. Benjamin loves going to school and has been talking a bit more everyday. He has been screened for speech and will start receiving speech once a week in November. The speech therapist was concerned about his hearing and he had it tested this week as well. He well get it retested soon as he didn't "pass" the initial hearing test. Could be part of his speech problem; he doesn't speak the beginning sounds of words and maybe he doesn't hear them.

Alex and Benjamin headed to the Pumpkin Farm last week. Just a few quick fall pictures as we have had some awesome weather in October.

Alex rode the ponies, Benjamin would not get close

Holding a little chick was fun, again Ben stayed back

The closest I'm coming to an animal

Benjamin-3

Caryn-7

Elizabeth-10

Alex-5

1st Day of School

2011-08-27T07:32:00.000-07:00

The first day of school was yesterday. It was an exciting day. Benjamin was excited to go. Daddy was sad to see him go, but since he was having fun playing it was time to sneak out without tears. He was fine and ready to learn.

Benjamin is all set for the first day.

Elizabeth is ready for 5th Grade

Caryn on her way to 2nd Grade

(Have no idea why I can't flip it?) Alex was being silly on the first day.

In front of the roses ready to go.

Disney 2011

2011-07-24T17:37:00.000-07:00

We had an awesome time visiting Disney World with Grandma and Grandpa this year. Benjamin loved meeting all the characters especially Mickey Mouse. He didn't like Pluto for some reason though. Alex especially loved the yo-yo staircases and Elizabeth and Caryn like the rides.

Goofy boys on the Mickey Bus

Alex's prized Gold doubloons from "Jake and the Neverland Pirates."

Alex waited a long time for Perry.

Mommy and Caryn waited an hour to see Ariel, got within 4 people, then it stormed. Went back two days later not to be turned away. Waited an hour again!

Benjamin with his hook on the red yo-yo.

The boys at the bottom of the Big Red Yo-Yo

These 3D glasses always make for a good family picture.

The girls striking a pose in Downtown Disney.

Waiting in line for the Nemo Show at Animal Kingdom.

We all got soaked on the Kali Rapid River Ride.

Caryn was real wet.

This cool web and huge pine cone were at a rest stop as we entered Florida.

The Mad Tea Party was a blast for Caryn and Elizabeth.

Tiana was so personable.

Caryn was in awe of each of the princesses. Tinkerbell was in Epcot on our last day.

Mickey Pirate Grandma

Group shot before leaving Pop Century.

The girls were investigators with Kim Possible at Epcot. They actually had to TALK to this cast member to get their next clue.

We saw Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Pluto, and Donald at Epcot's Character Spot on our first day.

The Pirates of the Carribean Ride led us to meeting a real pirate.

Benjamin's favorite purchase: Hook.
Alex's favorite purchase: Telescope.
Caryn's favorite purchase: Princess camera
(Not sure why the boys are holding each others)

Alex would have eaten a banana, and raisin bran for every meal if it was an option.

"Look Mom, there's really red play-doh in there!"

Snow White in the Magic Kingdom, we were first to see her.

Splash Mountain, Elizabeth and Caryn in front, Daddy and Mommy in row 2.

Another awing experience.

What a fun trip, but we're not going back for a while...
Daddy says 10 years, what does Mommy say about that??

Birthday Parties and More

2011-06-15T12:37:00.000-07:00

Where does the time go? Benjamin and Caryn just celebrated another birthday. We had a birthday party at our house.

Caryn had an Ariel Cake...marble.

Benjamin had a Lightning McQueen cake...strawberry.

Elizabeth had fun making a birthday banner. She filled in the Ben with all 3's and the Caryn with all 7's. Not sure if anyone besides the attentive cousin Abby noticed.

And not to be forgotten...Alex had a celebration for "graduating" from K4. On to kindergarten next year.

We are counting down to our 3rd Annual Trip to Disneyworld. Not sure how this has become a yearly affair, but it is fun. We'll be going in 26 days! Elizabeth has a countdown calendar and has writen down where we'll be going each of the days and special attractions she'd like to see each day. Claire has her pins all sorted and ready to be a trading queen once again!

Church?

2011-05-11T11:22:00.000-07:00

It's been quite some time since I've posted here. Looking at my camera though, you'd think it was yesterday. Haven't taken any pictures since Christmas? We skipped Easter pictures? What? Oh well!

Benjamin is growing and learning more each day. He starting to talk a lot more than he had even a few weeks ago. My favorite thing he says is after he sneezes. He sneezes, I say "God Bless You!" he responds "Church!" Makes me giggle each time. That he connects "God bless you" with church is just to darn cute.

Another connection he made this week was while we were getting ready to mow the grass for the first time this spring. I had to go buy gas. Of course, he needed to help all along the way. We got home filled up the lawnmower with gas and he questioned "Gas?" Then he ran to get his mower and proudly said, "BUBBLES!" After we were done mowing, he went inside and told Mamma what we had done. He said, Dadda...gas, Me...bubbles! Too cute.

A few pictures I have taken recently...these are flowers that each of the kids got to plant this weekend for Mother's Day. Stein's Garden and Gifts had an awesome promotion for Mother's Day. Each kid got to decorate their clay pot and take the marigold home to mom. Best part was that it was free!

Alex has been asking for glasses the last few weeks. I'm not sure if it's because I got new ones or because he sees a few other kids in his class wear them. I popped the lens out of a very old pair of mine and he was so happy to have glasses. He carried them around in a case and wouldn't put them down. He wanted to wear them to school, but I wouldn't let him. Of course, he started wearing them on Sunday and by Monday afternoon...they were broken! Glad he doesn't need glasses yet.

Benjamin and I shared a few cookies last week. It was Teacher Appreciation week, so we had baked cookies for the teachers and had a few left. Two to be exact. He quickly stole both of them and ate one in a bite and shared the other with his friend. Luckily, I knew the friend wouldn't eat it, so Daddy did get a treat.

Christmas has Come and Gone

2010-12-28T20:57:00.000-08:00

The Kids under the tree with Cousin Hailey at Gma/Gpa R's.

Kids with Cousins Abby and Katie, and Braxton at Aunt Diane's.

Caryn, Benjamin, Elizabeth and Alex on Christmas morning.

Caryn woke up with a fever, but was a party trooper. Ended up sleeping till after 1:00 the day after Christmas though.

Even with not feeling well, Caryn says, "Daddy did you get a picture of me with my lipstick?"

Benjamin opening a "Ben" Thomas train. Notice Caryn took a rest anytime she didn't need to be awake.

Alex with his stack of presents.

Finally, a pillow pet. Dolphin!

It is amazing to watch the kids at Christmas. How different they all react.

Benjamin was very patient, but knew exactly when it was his turn to open a present, pointing at himself and making it known that everyone should now watch him.

Alex was fine with everything, but after Christmas he questioned why Santa brought a few presents because he hadn't even asked for them. I asked him if he wanted me to take them back, then he was fine with them again. :)

Poor Caryn picked Christmas morning as the time to catch what everyone else had a few days earlier. Her sickness turned worse than everyone else's though. She was determined to have fun even though she felt rotten.

Elizabeth had many questions this year, one being "How does Santa know what everyone else gets you, so he doesn't get the same things?" Well, dear Elizabeth, seems Santa has no clue since he brought a few things that we received at other gift openings.

It was a fun Christmas and not nearly as exhausting as in past years. These kids growing up sure makes for more independence and less dependence on Mommy and Daddy, making for a much more enjoyable holiday.

School Days

2010-09-23T13:57:00.000-07:00

Been a while since I hooked the camera up to the computer. In fact, probably hadn't downloaded the pics since the last time I was here. There were tons of summer pictures including hundreds from our trip to Disney around 4th of July. Elizabeth's birthday occurred and the kids went back to school. We try to take pictures every year on the first day of school and here's a few plus Elizabeth's birthday cake from Diary Queen.

It was a quick summer and where did the first month of school go? The kids are getting progress reports sent home next week.

Aunt Sharon's Wedding

2010-06-13T06:08:00.000-07:00

Just a few pictures from the big wedding day. We had a great time dancing the night away and outlasted everyone, even the DJ's ;)

Benjamin recognized the "Chicken Dance" right away and headed straight for the dance floor.

Alex had a great day, couldn't pick one moment as the best.

Elizabeth said the best part of the day was: THE MASHED POTATOES!!

Miss Caryn had a special song: "I Got a Feeling!" dedicated to her. It's her birthday today!! 6/13

Little Benjamin was one of the last ones standing.

All the Cousins!

Our new Uncle and Cousin.

Flower Girl Cousin Abby and Ringbearer Alex.

Grandpa B getting ready to give away Aunt Sharon.

Caryn, Alex and Elizabeth helped pass out Wedding Programs.

When I Grow Up...

2010-05-19T11:42:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Elizabeth declared that she wanted to live in our house forever. I asked her why and she quickly responded, "Because then I'll be able to save money to buy as many Webkinz as I want!"

Caryn is getting ready to "graduate" from Kindergarten. She has grown so much this year and is ready for 1st grade. She's practicing a song for her ceremony called, "When I Grow Up..." and she'll be reciting one of the month poems: October. She's been working on it!

We received our first phone call from school today! Seems Mr. Alex got into it with a classmate. Alex was playing with a toy and the other little boy wanted the same toy. Other kid punched Alex in the stomach, Alex bit the other kid in the back. Principal called parents! 3K student lying down for a nap!

Our Poppies are taking over the backyard this year. They are gorgeous! Benjamin has had a great time watering them. Seems he learned how to turn the water faucet on pretty quickly. He's been warned and in timeouts already, so the outside water faucet has been turned back off!

Mom's Away, Let's Have Dessert

2010-04-14T18:47:00.000-07:00

Just a few quick pictures as Elizabeth said we needed to take some pictures today. Mommy is gone to NY for a few days, so we're just chilling in the awesome Springtime weather. I also needed to put the date imprint on the bathtub pic, just to prove a bath was given. Daddy and baths don't go together often!

Christmas Family Pictures

2010-01-02T11:47:00.000-08:00

Just a few Christmas pictures. Alex had a birthday a week before Christmas and had a Lightning McQueen cake too.

Benjamin Pictures

2009-12-13T15:41:00.001-08:00

We went to get Benjamin's pictures taken last Tuesday. Our appointment was for 9:20am. We had to wait while the first wave of kids got their pictures taken. Unfortunately, these kids were not so coooperative. We got in at 9:30 and were out by 9:32. That's right 2 minutes! He smiled so much that the photographer ran out of poses and called it quits. These are the results.

Happy Thanksgiving!!

2009-11-30T11:56:00.000-08:00

Last week was Thanksgiving. Our week was packed full of fun stuff. Daddy has been spending his time at home entering all kinds of contests to win free stuff. Last week, tickets to "Plaid Tidings" and "Sesame Street Live" were the big winnings. Nothing big happening in our world this November.

The biggest addition to the family. Four holes!!

Caryn has been asking to get her ears pierced for several weeks and last Wednesday was the big day. Not to be outdone, Elizabeth also joined in. After the piercing, we went to the Hallmark store where Webkinz were on sale. Alex couldn't have been left out of the festivities, so Elizabeth is now the proud owner of Daisy the turtle, Caryn has Rainbow or Princess or Princess Rainbow, whatever you want to call her is fine, she says. Rainbow is a unicorn. And Alex has been carrying around Rudolph the big nosed Moose since Wednesday.

Hoping to get our Christmas cards ordered today to take advantage of the CyberMonday deals everywhere.

Halloween

2009-11-02T11:20:00.000-08:00

It's over. Here's a few pics from our fun Halloween. Benjamin slept through trick-or-trick and there's really not a good picture of him, but we'll have to cheat and put the costumes back on for a good group shot.

Probably can't tell, but this is a list of all Elizabeth's candy. I'm sure she'll be crossing them out as they're eaten too.

Auntie Jen
Aunt Jen with the Kids "Taylor Swift", "Tinker Bell", and the cutest little penguin ever
Taco Dip ala Mommy

Numbers

2009-10-06T08:37:00.001-07:00

I had forgotten how much fun it was to take Caryn and Elizabeth out for walks when they were a little younger. We had fun racing each other to the next house and trying to recite the next house number quicker than the other.

Now, Alex has decided "House Numbers" is a cool game. He travels up and down the block shouting the numbers out. He usually starts out our afternoon walk just riding his bike, but always at the same house his game begins. The house across the street, with the big "for sale" sign in front of it. First, the same question about why the neighbors are selling their house, then the same answer: "because they're sick of hearing their 3 yr. old neighbor all day!"

I was surprised to hear him shout out the numbers at first, but then again, why should I be surprised. He looks at the clock and can probably tell time better than his oldest sister, he does "calendar" everyday at school and we read many books about numbers. Countless times we have read the "10 doggies" book.

It's a fun game and very soon, Daddy is going to take Alex on in a game of "House Numbers."

Aunt vs. Auntie

2009-09-21T08:07:00.000-07:00

We invited Aunt Melissa over for dinner last night. Daddy said we were having company for dinner "Auntie Melissa!" Caryn looked at him strangely and said "Auntie?" Seems for some reason all the "Rebarchik Aunts" are Aunties while all the "Brefka Aunts" are Aunts. Why is that? Who knows, but it made for some fun conversation yesterday.

Aunt Melissa is in her first year at Carrol College and we went to pick her up after the end of the Packer game. Had her help Caryn with her homework, fed her tacos and brownies and brought her back to school before bedtime.

Here's a few pics from the weekend...Ted E. Bear was an overnight guest for the weekend too.

Eat Your Crust!

2009-09-18T07:26:00.001-07:00

Last night, we had lasagna for dinner. For the last year or so, everyone has been eating their garlic bread, but leaving the crust. Last time we ate garlic bread, Mommy came up with an oddball way to get the girls to eat their crust.

"Eat your crust and your hair will grow!"

Why that worked is beyond me, but last night when we were eating our lasagna, Caryn proudly proclaimed, "Mommy, I'm gonna make my hair grow!"

Walking Quotes

2009-09-06T14:09:00.000-07:00

Daddy took the boys out for a walk last night as it was a beautiful night and we won't be having many of them anymore. Plus, the girls wanted to watch High School Musical 2, and Alex was trying to get his way and watch Mickey's Christmas.

Daddy started out with the walk, and Alex requested as he always does to walk around the race track. Didn't happen as Daddy was pretty tired. The boys walked through many of the nearby blocks and happened upon a block with several houses for sale.

Alex proudly stated, "We need to buy a new house!"

Daddy asked, "Where are we going to buy a new house?"

Alex again did not hesitate with his quick wit, "At Pick 'n Save!"

Daddy was pretty much speechless and continued on with the walk pointing to all the other houses up for sale.

School Days

2009-09-02T07:34:00.000-07:00

Can you believe that school has started already? Where has the summer gone? Can you believe Elizabeth is in 3rd grade? Better question, can you believe Alex is now going to school?

What a week!! School started last Thursday and we are all still getting used to the routine. Alex had a difficult time for the first few days. Mommy dropped him off the first day and he would not let go of her for a good long while. Daddy dropped him off on Friday and the same thing happened. Monday, Daddy walked him in and he stopped short of the door and wouldn't go in till the teacher invited him and helped him hang everything up. Tuesday, Daddy walked him in and said goodbye, but Alex had more important things to do...walked right in the room and handed the teacher his folder and off to work he went. Today, Daddy didn't even get a goodbye. Alex stood outside in the 3K line and walked in with the teacher without looking back. He is a big boy and starting to get more comfortable with school

Pictures from the first day of school.

More Pictures

2009-08-06T06:58:00.001-07:00

Waiting for "It's a Small World" Benjamin was just not having enough fun.
We all needed to wait for the right color Dumbo to ride.
We all took a ride on the train.
Waiting for the bus Grandpa found a place to sit down. Grandpa said he was sad to admit it was actually comfortable and he could get used to it.
Alex was excited to watch the Playhouse Disney Show.
Playing in the water fountains was fun.
We really did have a great time at WDW last week. Smiles were plenty!!

2009-08-05T07:11:00.000-07:00

Here's some quick pics from our Disney experience. We had an awesome time.

Time to chill with Nemo.
AHHH! The Seas was a great highlight of Epcot.
We visited every country and decorated our masks with emblems from each country. Alex had a bunch of yellow till he decided at the very end to pick one green dragon. So much for the yellow pattern.
Alex checks out the map in Morocco.
Life size Minnie, well, life size to a 1 year old.
Elizabeth visits Sleeping Beauty. The girls got to talk with Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, and Belle. What a memory!!
Daddy loves spinning as fast as he can on the Tea Cups. Can't even see Hailey, Caryn and Elizabeth in this one.
Alex was in awe of all the bigger than life Disney. Lightning McQueen and Mater were a huge highlight.
Daddy and Donald.
Family time at the character breakfast.
Minnie, Donald and Goofy ate with us.
Caryn had a blast staying up late and riding the roller coasters.
Alex on the carousel.

The Bathroom

2009-06-23T06:03:00.000-07:00

The one room in the house where we have been trying to get Alex to spend more time...and Benjamin to spend less time. Seems that the toilet has become Ben's "choice" toy lately. We are trying to train everyone else in the house to shut the bathroom door and if that doesn't happen, at least flush!! I'm not sure what the attraction is of leaving your "waste" in the toilet for Mommy and Daddy to see, but seems everyone here needs the positive reinforcement of a "job well done."

What Goes "GOO-GEE-GAAH"?

2009-06-18T08:46:00.000-07:00

Alex has been having lots of fun riding Benjamin's new tricycle/hotwheel and enjoys driving from "lightpole to lightpole." These are the limits set naturally on our block. He has started to pretend these lightpoles are gas stations and has even come up with his own sound effects to pump the gas. If you've ever wondered what gas coming out of an imaginary pump sounds like, Alex has the answer!

Alex also came up with a new game yesterday with his newly turned 5 yr. old sister. The two of them were playing outside and decided to "pretend" that the back porch was their bathroom for the "pretend" house outside. Funny thing is, Alex didn't so much pretend to go potty on the back porch! Caryn came running in the house to tattle on her brother saying, "MOMMY!! MOMMY!! Alex just went pee-pee on the back porch. I'm not even lying!!"

Oh, the joys of summer continue...

What will we be pretending today??

Happy Birthday Caryn!!

2009-06-15T06:54:00.000-07:00

Saturday was Caryn's 5th Birthday. We celebrated with a joint party for her and her baby brother Benjamin who turned 1 earlier in the month. It was a beautiful day and the cake(s) were delicious. Daddy's first attempt at making cakes in a mold. Mickey was a bit rough, but Mommy made it work while Minnie came out much easier.

1 Year Check-Up

2009-06-10T09:11:00.000-07:00

From birthdays to graduations, this week has been packed full of excitement. This morning, Benjamin had his 12 month check-up. Had to cancel the original appointment to escort the girls on a field trip to the zoo. We had fun and everyone rode the carousel too. Benjamin weighed in at 24lb. 7oz. and his height is 32 inches. He's still tall, but thinning out a bit. He's eating mostly table food, but still likes applesauce with cereal, yogurt and Caryn said "PUFFS!" He stands up and walks around the furniture, but not walking on his own yet. He's drinking milk and started using a sippy cup last week as Mommy said, "No more bottle!" and he was a bit thirsty after not drinking much for a few days before he finally figured the cups out. The doctor referred us to an ophthalmologist to look at his right eye as he's got a bit of a "lazy eye" and the doctor wants to make sure it's not affecting his vision. Benjamin is such a smiley boy and very free spirited. He waves at everyone and is willing to sit by anyone who smiles back at him. Big party coming up this weekend as last weekend had a family wedding at Aunt Melissa's high school graduation.

12 of 12

2009-04-20T11:24:00.000-07:00

Here's some pictures from the past few weeks. We've had lots of fun watching Big Ben get very mobile. He's crawling all over and standing next to everything. Nothing is safe anymore.

Loving the swing as long as there's action around.

Alex had a great time coloring his hands.

The girls are old pros.

A Rebarchik tradition: GAMETIME!!
Disney Monopoly

Eating an Easter Feast

Alex loves playing ball, frisbee, and usually throws left-handed

Candy is all gone...now what do I do?

Before the great Brefka Egg Hunt

And the Summer Scraps begin: Scooter incident #1

UH OH! Time to get everything higher!!

Alex the photographer gets Daddy with some Spring Break Scruff

Grandpa the photographer after about 20 attempts

10 Months

2009-04-03T07:12:00.000-07:00

Benjamin is now 10 months old. How'd that happen? He is chatting away now talking to whatever will listen...his bibs, teething rings and a nuk that has never interested him before have become conversational companions. He is faster than fast, and Daddy has had to make many barriers to keep him in the living room and some how he has still managed the great escape into the kitchen. He loves standing and the saucer has been a welcome place when he escapes too much. His favorite standing place is holding onto Mommy or Daddy's hands and jumping up and down on the floor.

A is enjoying the Spring-like weather. We've gone to the zoo a few times and he loves riding his tric-bike. We usually walk the neighborhood after lunch trying to wear him out for a nap. Unfortunately, only works on wearing Daddy out ;) Seems like he is back to staying dry after a few weeks of wetting constantly. Licorice has been a good motivator.

C and E are enjoying school and have just started the 4th quarter. C has been screened for speech and will begin meeting with the speech therapist once a week next week. E is less than a month away from receiving her first Communion and this weekend we'll be working on a First Communion Banner. She has several ideas, but Mommy will have the final say.

A Death in the Family

2009-02-26T08:25:00.000-08:00

Well, it's been over a month since we've visited the blog...suppose it's time.

Little Benny B is growing. The boys are starting to get along. Alex plays catch with Ben...usually with a bib, but whatever works I guess. Ben laughs the whole time, but loves the attention. He is crawling all over the place and has been banished to the saucer several times after sticking something in his mouth. As much as we think we've baby proofed the living room/dining room, he finds something to choke on.

Our camera suffered a premature death this week...these were the last two pictures taken and Daddy and Mommy were NOT the photographers.

So...this week Daddy and the boys took a trip to Art's Camera Plus to buy a new camera along with the extended damage protection plan so our next camera will not suffer the same fate...banished to the toy bin!!

12 of 12

2009-01-12T11:01:00.000-08:00

12 random pictures from Christmas and Grandpa R's birthday.

12 inches before Christmas...
the reason Daddy bought a snowblower!!
Sincere Christmas Joy!!
The excitement of a child passing out presents.
The Purple Purse and Mickey Hat and Gloves.
High School Musical
Mommy wrapped this one for herself...and we know it!!
Happy? Sad? Tired? Christmas!!
Impromptu Playpen
All Smiles
Why is there a brownie missing...Grandpa!!!
65 Candles lit...turn down the heat!!

The Boys are Growing

2009-01-09T10:54:00.000-08:00

It's been a good day!! Daddy has had to change one wet undie on Alex's quest to become potty trained by the time we go to Disney World. We still have a few months and I think Caryn has forgotten about it since Christmas as that was ALL she was talking about the first couple days after Christmas. Alex has sat on the toilet a total of five times today, going each time and surprised me twice by telling me it was time to go potty. Unbelievable!! If I would have known buying Mickey Mouse Clubhouse was the trick, I would have done it months ago.

Little BT is a mobile little monster!! 7 months old and getting all over the living room. Nothing is safe any longer. He can't crawl yet, but that doesn't stop he from reaching, flipping over, and rolling all over.

2008-12-29T15:00:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas!!
Our oldest and youngest both got their two front teeth for Christmas!!

More pictures when they make it on the computer ;)

Alex's Birthday Cake

2008-12-17T09:07:00.000-08:00

Sunday, we celebrated Alex's 3rd Birthday with a big party. He has been pushing Thomas the Train all around the house ever since.

Six Month Check-Up

2008-12-11T17:33:00.000-08:00

We went to the doctor yesterday the results were just as expected. Benjamin is the perfect height of an average 12 month old. Alex is too ;)

BT: 29 in 19 lb. 12 oz.

AJ: 35 in. 26 lb. 6 oz.

Now, there are two and a half years between the two of them and BT is wearing clothes that AJ just grew out of. Mommy was concerned that he didn't grow at all this year, but the stats say he grew two inches and two pounds. BT on the other hand, has more than doubled in size!!

"Let Me Touch Your Butt!!"

2008-12-09T07:31:00.001-08:00

The things that come out of the mouths of babes! The last 3 days, Alex has been running around the house at about noon yelling: "Let Me Touch Your Butt!!" At least that's what it comes out as... When I repeat it back to him, he stares at me oddly. Then he says, "Benjamin, touched my butt!!" What??? Finally, he says, "It's dark out, me touch your butt!!"

Mommy and Daddy had a good laugh when we finally figured out what he was saying: Let me get dressed for bed!! He sees Ben dressed in his pajamas most of the day because we refuse to turn the heat higher than 64 and the poor kids got icicles growing from his nose. Alex thinks it's time to go to bed all day.

Now I know, he's not a pervert, he just wants to be warm and comfy like his baby brother.

SIX MONTHS

2008-12-05T11:41:00.000-08:00

This week has proved to be another quick one with little down time. Lots of running errands and little time on the computer. Benjamin celebrated his 6 month B-Day this week! He is getting to be almost too big for the carseat carrier. Daddy is putting off the promotion into the big carseat as long as possible since it's so convenient to keep him in the carseat carrier. He wakes up and usually falls back to sleep in the carrier while we take the girls to school and keeps sleeping for a good hour giving Alex and Daddy time to eat breakfast doing the coffee & oatmeal routine. Alex could get breakfast ready by himself!!

Benjamin is sitting up by himself until he tries to reach for something just a little out of his reach. His appearance is getting more and more like a little "Alex" every day. As long as there is activity in the room, Benjamin is content. Still haven't settled on what to call him. Daddy usually calls him Ben, Mommy~BT, Alex~Benjamin, Caryn~??, Elizabeth~Benji. Poor kid won't know what to answer to.

Six month check up is next week, but Ben is already filling out 12 month outfits and he's poor little legs get mighty scrunched up when Daddy puts him in his 0-9 month bunting. 18 month snow suit needs a new zipper fast!!

What to do after all the leaves are raked?

2008-11-05T08:49:00.000-08:00

Alex has been hard at work raking leaves for the last few weeks. He has loved raking! Now most of our leaves are down and gone, so what has he decided to do? He has taken his rake out for a walk and started raking everyone else's leaves! I'm sure the neighbors don't mind ;)

Wall of Fame

2008-10-29T17:04:00.000-07:00

It was picture day yesterday. Daddy took the boys to get pictures taken as a surprise for Mommy and the girls brought home their school pictures as well. I think they turned out pretty nice, what about you?

Four Months Old~Benjamin

2 yrs. old~Alex

4 yrs. old~Caryn

7 yrs. old~Elizabeth

Alex Loves Taking Pictures

2008-10-29T06:45:00.000-07:00

One of these days, I'll have to have Alex's "12 of 12" like I see on other blogs. Alex took over 100 pictures within a 5 minute span while Daddy was warming Benjamin's bottle the other day. Then, Daddy put him to work and had him take a picture of Benjamin's first attempt at eating cereal. Didn't turn out too bad! The cereal and the picture;)

Halloween All Weekend Long

2008-10-27T07:22:00.000-07:00

Elizabeth and Caryn started Halloween Weekend with the annual MQS Halloween Dance. Elizabeth changed her mind about a thousand times and finally settled on being a flower girl. Caryn also changed her mind several times going from Dora to Little Mermaid and finally Cinderella.

Saturday was the Stroll down Greenfield Ave. The local businesses join in trick or treating and give treats. 40 businesses in a 6 block area and two hours of walking!

Sunday was the neighborhood Trick-or-treating and it was a cold afternoon. Caryn didn't even want to go, but went around the block anyway. Alex was totally into it and has enough candy to last him till he's potty-trained and Elizabeth, I believe, is still out trick-or-treating ;)

Family Photo

2008-10-21T11:37:00.000-07:00

The boys are sleeping this afternoon. Alex hasn't been feeling good lately with a running nose, coughing and willing to take a nap. Today, we visited are daycare friends for music and he just sat on his teacher's lap. I could tell he was missing daycare a bit since after our music was over, he got in line with the other 2 yr. olds and was ready to go back to their class. He was fine once we got home and rode our bikes for a while. Ben was awake the whole music session, but just chilled in his car seat watching all the kids move and dance along with Daddy too.

The leaves are falling off the trees and Mommy's favorite time to take pictures is here. Here's a nice family picture. Everyone is actually smiling and looking with the exception of baby, but I'll take it.

Doctor Visit

2008-10-13T12:32:00.001-07:00

4 month visit today. All is well: 16lbs. 14oz. and 27 1/2 inches long.

Today, we tried the saucer once again. Three weeks ago, it was not so good. Today, BT loved reaching for all the toys and enjoyed the attention he got from A especially since it was naptime and A was getting away with something.

Not sure how much he likes Discovery Boy Toy, but it is such a great little toy and doesn't make much noise. He does seem to be warming up to it a bit.

Where are the Benjamin Pictures?

2008-10-11T19:37:00.000-07:00

Four children definitely make it interesting when taking pictures. Unfortunately, poor little BT will probably never have any pictures of himself alone. Luckily, our three other kids love riding their bikes and while the big kids were playing BT got to smile all alone. Already four months old. Growing fast and definitely getting a personality all of his own. Teethers are starting to come in. We see the doctor for his 4 month check up on Monday. Now, that Daddy is home, he'll be doing the visits.

Brothers???

2008-09-17T04:34:00.001-07:00

Ben at 3 months (just ignore the spew coming out of his mouth)
Alex at 3 months

Three months old and these guys are looking more and more like each other everyday. Mommy was digging through her desk yesterday and found a picture of Alex at 3 months that looks exactly like Benjamin. We could be in for a fun few years if the comparisons continue. Alex is a hoot!

Baptism Day

2008-07-28T08:59:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a big day. A TRIPLE Baptism. Quinn, William and Benjamin all got baptized together. The party was at our house and it turned out to be a beautiful day. Father "John the Baptist," who is a long-time family friend, performed the baptism. Father John has baptized all the Rebarchiks and married most of them too. Here's the happy pictures.

Our family pictures don't get much better than this ;)

Grandpa and "Godpa" Joe and Godmother Aunt Melissa along with Benjamin

The Cake

Quinn, William, and Benjamin

The "Grown-Ups"

The "Growing-Ups"

Happy Birthday~One Month Old!

2008-07-03T20:06:00.000-07:00

First trip to the zoo yesterday helped mark a "Happy First Month!"

A Week Late on the Birthday Pics

2008-06-21T06:29:00.000-07:00

Daddy's been trying to clean out the picture folder as it takes SO LONG to load iphoto on the computer lately. So the birthday pictures were on hold for a long. Today, is the first official day of summer and it marks the first day in the B household that the Men outnumber the Women. Caryn and Elizabeth have gone camping for the weekend with Grandpa, Auntie Jenny and Kozmo, and Uncle Joel and Hailey. That leaves Mommy with all the boys! It's 8:30 and everyone is still sleeping and Daddy already got to exercise for an hour in peace.

Here's the pics.

All the little babies.

Cousin William and Little Abigail came to visit a few days before the party here's a picture of William born in March and Ben born June 3.

A few of the B side of the family, Baby Braxton, Baby Katie and Baby Ben and then one with the Mommy's too.

And here's the Birthday Girl with the Dora cake Mommy made for her.

We've Got a Celebrity in the Family

2008-06-14T04:04:00.000-07:00

Aunt Melissa forwarded this link. Seems Grandma B was in the middle of some excitement this week. (She's the happy looking cashier)

Today we're having a BIG party. It's Ms. Caryn's 4th Birthday. Well, it really happened yesterday on Friday the 13th, but we're celebrating today. Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, Grandmas, Grandpas, Neighbors and more...if you're in the neighborhood, you're welcome to come.

Caryn has been very excited this week. It was her last week at daycare. I don't think she realizes how final it really was. She received a diploma and lots of hugs. She's spending the summer with Mommy and the new baby and in the fall, she'll be starting all-day 4K at Elizabeth's school. How exciting! More later, hopefully Daddy will get his act together and post some party pictures later.

Just a Few Cute Ones

2008-06-06T09:32:00.000-07:00

Alex is starting to warm up to the little guy a little. This picture was the closest he would come. We asked him if he would like to put Ben's hat on and he did. In 2 yr. old fashion: ALL BY HIMSELF! Took a fews tries, but he did it.

Here's a cute one of Cousin Abby and the 4B's.

Our First Night Home

2008-06-06T09:27:00.000-07:00

Besides the fact that Daddy was dumb enough to sub for two WW meetings, it turned out to be a great night. Big Ben ate a bottle at 9:00pm and slept for awhile. Mommy woke him at 11:00 to fill up the tummy once more. She went to sleep and Daddy fed him maybe an ounce, put him to bed and this is how he found him at 7:00am this morning! He definitely takes the title of "Best First Night." All of our kids have slept at least 6 hours the first night home, but Big Ben hit 8 hours!

It's a Boy!

2008-06-03T22:12:00.000-07:00

Here's the best of the day.

Notice the distance Alex is keeping

Benjamin Thomas was born at 1:10PM on June 3, 2008. He made it a bit difficult as he tried to break out waving. The doctor had a challenge trying to shake hands and pushing it back into place, but he was able to do so and Ben was born head first and without further difficulty. He's got a bunch of blond hair and detached earlobes, which happens to be the first thing we always look for. No reason, just because Daddy has attached and Mommy has detached. The kiddos are getting used to him. Alex will definitely have an adjustment period.

Benjamin Thomas
9lb. 14oz. (Doctor said he'd be a "Baby Hippo" and he didn't let us down!)
21in.
1:10pm
June 3, 2008

Joins Elizabeth, Caryn and Alex

OH BABY!

2008-06-03T02:20:00.001-07:00

It's amazing how kids just grow up right in front of you. This little guy, Alex, is no longer a baby. It's time for someone else to fill those tiny shoes! Alex is so ready to be a big brother and he will do a great job I am sure. Monday, the crib was cleaned out and the rocking chair moved from his room to Mommy and Daddy's room. The crib will stay in Alex's room for a while whether the baby is a boy or girl (just too lazy to take it apart). Baby's crib was emptied of toys and new sheets, the mobile and bumper pad were put back into place. Alex definitely knows something special is about to happen.

Monday, when being dropped off at daycare, Alex would not let go of Daddy. This never happens as Alex is always ready to play and usually runs to open the gate and then its off to the bikes. This day, he snuggled with his teacher, Ms. Cindy, and watched as Daddy left. No tears, he's a big boy! I could tell, he knew his role was about to change.

Here's to the BIG BROTHER! There will always be plenty of love to go around.

Sweet Pics

2008-05-18T17:04:00.000-07:00

Two sweet pictures today. Not sure if I want that many pregnant people in the house.

All the cousins from Daddy's side of the family. Abby, Katie, and Braxton along with all the gang. How did we manage to get all of them to sit so still.

Still waiting for baby.

Another New Cousin

2008-04-21T18:39:00.000-07:00

Uncle Steve and Aunt Chris added to the clan last week. April 15, Braxton Harold Brefka was born. What a cutie!

Hey You!

2008-03-13T20:06:00.000-07:00

Well, I was chatting with one of my favorite residents today and we came up with the best name possible for a baby: HAYU! It happens all the today, I am horrible with names and have already admitted that this poor #4 will be Elizabeth Caryn Alex HAYU! I trip over every possible name. You would think I'd get it right once in a while especially when talking about the oldest, but it still does not help so here's my vote for #4's name: HEY YOU!

UPDATE on new cousins name: WILLIAM NICHOLAS II was born on Saturday, March 8 and weighed in at a healthy 8 pounds.

Another New Cousin: What's His Name!

2008-03-09T16:32:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, March 8, 2008, What's His Name was born in Appleton. Unfortunately, Aunt KB and Uncle BB still have not decided on a name...but here's some pictures.

Visiting our New Cousin

2008-03-09T16:27:00.000-07:00

Daddy hasn't been getting around to updating this quite as much as he thought he would. Here's some pictures of our first meeting of Cousin Katie. We all loved meeting our new cousin, unfortunately, Abby wasn't feeling very good that day and didn't want to take a picture. We got her anyway :)

Meeting Cousin Quinn

2008-02-18T20:46:00.000-08:00

Cousin Quinn and Auntie Katie are visiting from NY. It's the first time that we were able to meet her in person. She was born on Thanksgiving, so it's about time we meet her. She looks just like her Daddy!

Katherine Sue

2008-02-12T19:32:00.000-08:00

Here's the birth announcement of our newest cousin. If you can't tell, Uncle BM likes his beer:

KSM Named Vice President of Operations for W. H. M. Brewing Co. (Franklin, WI Division)

Effective February 11, 2008 at 4:27 PM, Katherine Sue, "Katie", will be the Vice President of Operations for the W. H. M. Brewing Company's Franklin, WI division. Katie will be taking the place of her big sister A.M.M. at the brewery. "Katie's heritage of German, Irish, Polish, and Choctaw Indian descent make her perfect for this position. Katie will have large shoes to fill taking over for her big sister by completing the automation project and running day to day operations at the brewery. Her 8.0 pounds, 21 inches, and passion to join this world seven days early and begin work before her official start date of February 29th tells me that she will fill A.M.M.'s shoes just fine.", said W. H. M. (president). Katie's comments about this new position were, "Goo-goo gah-gah, grunt, snort, burp" (which translates to - I look forward to taking over operations from by big sister. As soon as I can sit up on my own, my sister can fulfill her new duties). Katie attended West Allis Memorial and will soon be attending InPro University. Please welcome Katie to the company.

A.M.M. Named Vice President of Brewing Excellence & Essential Research for W. H. M. Brewing Co. (Franklin, WI Division)

Effective February 11, 2008 at 4:28 PM, A. M. M., will be the Vice President of Brewing Excellence & Essential Research for the W. H. M. Brewing Co. (Franklin, WI Division). "This newly created position will allow A.M.M. to concentrate her efforts on brewing innovation and production research. A.M.M. did a great job implementing the new malting facility, automated Burner Management System (BMS), and Water Delivery System (WDS).", said W. H. M. (President). The Vice President of B.E.E.R. will report to the president and focus her efforts on brewing innovation. A.M.M. will transition to her new position over the next few months until Katie can sit up on her own. A.M.M. attended St. Francis and is currently finishing 3K at St. Paul's. Please congratulate A.M.M. on her new position.

Other Announcements

DM will continue her role as Vice President of Sales. She is doing fine and is recovering from the 45 minute delivery. WHM will continue his role as President and CEO. He is proud that both of daughters will be contributing to the success of the brewery.

It's a Girl

2008-02-11T18:30:00.001-08:00

Well, baby #2 of the "March of the Babies" has arrived. Aunt DM and Uncle WHM are the proud parents of a darling baby girl.

Katherine Sue was born today at 4:30pm. We'll post pictures when they arrive.

BB #4

2008-02-10T16:45:00.000-08:00

My wife asked if we could start a blog about the "new baby." I said sure, not thinking before speaking.

Well, here it is! I'll update it as I feel the need. Looking forward to baby #4 with great expectation.