The Pollert Possibilities

BIG BOYS and their BIG BOY BEDS

2012-02-12T20:38:00.000-05:00

MY OH MY has time changed...

We OFFICIALLY have no crib in our house, or twin beds for that matter.

BIG BOYS from here on out...

To us, they will always be our little baby boys!

Wordless Wednesday

2012-02-08T06:00:00.001-05:00

What happens after bath....

2012-02-04T20:30:00.000-05:00

Our boys are getting big...

Bath time is easy...

We have it down to a science...

-----

It is the time right after bath that makes me laugh,

because...

Collin turns into Spiderman on top of his skyscraper...

and

Oliver clearly thinks he is bigger than what he actually is!

Wordless Wednesday

2012-02-01T06:00:00.000-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-25T06:00:00.000-05:00

New Winter Activity.... JUMPING!

2012-01-22T21:08:00.001-05:00

Collin received a trampoline for his birthday!

Yes, it was for Collin but the whole family is enjoying it.

Both boys enjoy jumping on it all the time and Mommy and Daddy get to use it for workouts.

What better way to wear two little boys out during the winter when we can't go outside to run.

So you may ask... Did you have an ulterior motive to buying the trampoline?

Why.... YES, YES we did!

After the boys jump, jump, jump and jump some more....

After they fight and get mad at each other because the other thinks he got more time than him...

Then after they jump, jump and jump some more...

After they laugh and tickle each other...

THEY CRASH!

Mommy and Daddy's new FAVORITE winter activity... TRAMPOLINE JUMPING!

Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-18T06:00:00.002-05:00

Collin as "Sin Cara"

2012-01-16T12:00:00.001-05:00

Collin is...

"Sin Cara"

As Collin would say...

"Do you want a piece of me?"

(All Boy... Collin is definitely ALL BOY!)

Collin's Birthday Weekend!!

2012-01-15T15:12:00.000-05:00

This weekend we celebrated Collin's "5th" Birthday in French Lick, Indiana.

We stayed at Big Splash Adventure.

Collin had a AWESOME time at the water park! We celebrated his birthday at a Mexican restaurant, had cake and treats at the water park, opened presents and overall had a BLAST!!

Thank you to everyone for the birthday wishes and gifts.

Until next year....

We are going to enjoy the "5th Year" that our super hero has blessed us with his presence.

Happy "5" Birthday COLLIN!

2012-01-13T06:44:00.000-05:00

"It seems that yesterday, you were born and now you are five!

My, you're a very fast growing young guy!

You are darling and sweet, energetic and smart.

Yes, indeed, we think you're a real work of art!

We just want to say, "Happy Birthday To You"

And may all your birthday dreams come true!"

-Anonymous

We LOVE you Collin!

Happy Birthday!!

Love,

Mommy, Daddy and Oliver

Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-11T06:00:00.001-05:00

1) Calendar (noun)

2012-01-09T12:00:00.001-05:00

This may seem like a ordinary (extra large) calendar, but...

1: a system for fixing the beginning, length, and divisions of the civil year

and arranging days and longer divisions of time

(as weeks and months) in a definite order.

to our family...

IT IS ARTWORK and A REMINDER!

Collin is turning "5" this week and wanted to make sure we knew!!

January 2012 and NO SNOW! What a great day to....

2012-01-08T20:40:00.001-05:00

learn to ride a bike

or....

simply enjoy being outside....

Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-04T06:00:00.001-05:00

Eiteljorg Museum - Jingle Rails

2012-01-02T09:00:00.000-05:00

New Year's Eve brought another outing for the Pollert family.

Another EXPERIENCE - a memory!

We joined Papa and Grammy along with Uncle Curt, Aunt Lindsay, Clayton and Lacey for the Eiteljorg Museum's Jingle Rails! It was an amazing EXPERIENCE for all!!

Jingle Rails consists of eight G-scale/gauge model trains, nearly 1200 feet of track, thirteen overhead walk-under bridges, more than 24 nature-inspired buildings and a working waterfall feature. This year for 2011, they incorporated Lucas Oil Stadium, One America building, a historical pony express station, The Durango-Silverton route, Golden Gate Bridge and Hot air balloons from the Albuquerque, NM festival.

The display was truly amazing...

Little boys pointed and yelled with excitement...

While big boys stared with amazement!

The craftsmanship was the best.

For a split second on this New Year's Eve, you were taken far away...

as far away as your imagination could take you!

There were trains everywhere...

Left, Right, In front of you, and UP HIGH!

It is fascinating to see famous landmarks replicated, known by people around the world and...

locally!

"Boy O Boy" did we have another great EXPERIENCE!

Just as the boy's mentioned when they looked out the window....

WHERE TO NEXT?

2012 - Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T20:15:00.000-05:00

(Please excuse Oliver. Someone partied a little too much last night on New Year's Eve!)

New Year - Welcome 2012

2011-12-31T18:00:00.002-05:00

A new year is upon us...

See it?

Yes... it is here.

We hope that you have enjoyed 2011.

Were you able to relax...

grab some bites to eat...

crossed your legs while enjoying the scenery...

stared in wonder or curiosity?

We sure hope so!

Now....

One last look back... and then the best wishes for the New Year!

Build-A-Bear SMURF EDITION

2011-12-30T21:21:00.000-05:00

A huge perk of being off work the week after Christmas is having time for fun outings...

EXPERIENCES - making memories!

This is exactly what we did with Aunt Lindsay, Clayton and Lacey.

Mommy and Aunt Lindsay surprised the kids with a trip to "Build-A-Bear" - SMURF Edition.

(Adam and I used to joke how we would NEVER tell our kids about this place,

as we would often see how packed it is always inside. Oh... how times have changed.)

All four quickly picked out their Smurf of choice.

They waited patiently in line to get their chosen character "stuffed".

We all kissed many hearts and gave them our love before being placed inside their Smurf.

We laughed, giggled, jumped for joy, ran around and showed off our new friends.

Of course before we left, we had to give them a bath,

and.....

name them for their Birth Certificates.

In the end, "Build-A-Bear" was a blast.

A EXPERIENCE that gave the four children a lasting memory...

In the end... the day was wonderful and Mommy now has two little boys sound asleep,

cuddling with their new friend... "Build-A-Bear" - SMURF!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-12-28T06:00:00.001-05:00

Happy "4th" Birthday Clayton!!

2011-12-27T08:00:00.001-05:00

Happy "4th" Birthday Clayton!!

Hope you have a "GROOVY" Day.

Love You Lots,

Aunt Stacy, Uncle Adam, Collin and Oliver

The Day After Christmas...

2011-12-26T16:06:00.000-05:00

I know 4 little ones that are exhausted....

but "boy oh boy" did they have a wonderful Christmas!

Merry Christmas - 2011

2011-12-25T08:15:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas!!

Love,

The Pollert Family

Twas The Night Before Christmas...

2011-12-24T19:28:00.000-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-12-21T06:00:00.001-05:00

Santa's Lap... or not!

2011-12-18T19:42:00.000-05:00

As parents you hope that you can get one great shot of your adorable children sitting on Santa's lap.

You never want to have one of those pictures...

You know... We all know...

THAT PICTURE!

This year I am entering our picture into the "Most Memorable Santa Pictures Of All Time".

Seriously... we would so win!

The title,

SANTA'S LAP... or not!

The great part is that each time I look at it, I just laugh hysterically.

Oh my Oliver. Wait until you are older. This picture will be shown quite often!

Wordless Wednesday - "Collin, What are you doing?"

2011-12-14T06:00:00.003-05:00

(Taken with my iphone. Sorry the picture is a little fuzzy.)

Tis The Season...Little Blue Box

2011-12-09T08:00:00.004-05:00

"Christmas Spirit"

How could you not be in the Christmas mood with this image?

Wordless Wednesday

2011-12-07T06:00:00.001-05:00

A Taste of Christmas... Holiday Card Time!

2011-12-01T19:07:00.000-05:00

It's officially December...

Therefore, keeping with tradition, The Pollert Family Christmas Card was mailed.

Enjoy a couple of portraits from our session.

Tis the Season...

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-30T06:00:00.001-05:00

Old McCollin had a farm...

2011-11-27T13:34:00.001-05:00

While everyone shopped on Black Friday...

We drove tractors!

and rode on golf carts trying to enjoy the gorgeous weather,

while it LASTS!

Happy Black Friday!

2011-11-25T06:00:00.001-05:00

AWESOME!

Trains + Apple Products = PERFECT...

If you are out shopping today, good luck!

We are staying home. Our Christmas shopping is done. Check!

We will leave the crowds to you...

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T08:00:00.000-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-23T06:00:00.000-05:00

THE POLAR EXPRESS 2011

2011-11-21T08:00:00.001-05:00

The time finally arrived.

It was now here.

THE POLAR EXPRESS!

We all arrived...

excited, anxious, nervous.

The children were all dressed in their pajamas.

It was finally time to load up.

ALL ABOARD!

"Tickets Please!" - said the Conductor.

We enjoyed the famous "Hot Chocolate" and even sang along to the song.

Some of us, didn't want anyone to touch our mugs.

The little ones were thrilled.

Wide Eyed.Amazed.

We never did let go of our mugs or the yummy cookies.

Eventually we reached The North Pole.

We saw Santa!

(Of course, mommy was so excited too. She forgot to take a picture of Santa.)

Santa gave all the children bells.

Still stunned and not too thrilled about taking a picture, Collin showed off his bell.

THE POLAR EXPRESS was a great adventure.

A lasting memory that we will always cherish.

Thank you Papa and Grammy for making this experience come true!

Until next time...

West Baden Springs Hotel - French Lick, Indiana

2011-11-20T15:55:00.001-05:00

The Pollert Family just got back from French Lick, Indiana where we stayed at the....

West Baden Springs Hotel!

We were in town with our whole family

(Papa, Grammy, Uncle Curt, Aunt Lindsay, Clayton and Lacey).

What was the special occasion you may ask?

Well we were in town to ride THE POLAR EXPRESS!

Once we arrived in French Lick, we got settled.

This included tons of picture taking!

and running around.

The temperature change was amazing. It was 20 degrees warmer than at our house.

There was also a little ice cream snack in the atrium before we got ready...

We happened to arrive on the day they revealed their HUGE Christmas Tree.

It was amazing!

but we only had a small amount of time before....

THE POLAR EXPRESS!

Stay Tuned!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-16T06:00:00.003-05:00

ITALY Special Treats

2011-11-13T20:06:00.002-05:00

I am extremely blessed to work with wonderful people. Many of my coworkers are from all over the world and ALL of our customers are from outside of the United States. So weekly I am receiving fabulous gifts from all over the world. A couple of weeks ago a coworker was going back to southern Italy for a week and asked if there is anything he could bring me.
Whenever someone asks me this, I think of my mission...
teaching our boys about places around the world.
Considering this mission, I always ask for them to bring me a children's book.
My goal is to have a international bookshelf for our sons.
Our collection is turning out nicely.

I did receive two books and two other surprises - Kinder Sorpresa (Chocolate Eggs)!

The books from Italy are amazing.

The boys and I have already started to learn some basic Italian words.

The eggs though... THEY WERE AWESOME!

These eggs are special. You can not buy them in the United States.

(Frankly you aren't suppose to bring them in, but my coworker knew the boys would love them.)

They are a old Italian tradition.

The eggs are hollow, covered with white chocolate with a thin layer of milk chocolate.

Inside is a surprise... A TOY!

After dinner tonight, Collin opened his egg.

The toy was a spinner - colorful and fast.

Collin was amazed that a small little egg could hold a toy for him.

Of course Collin asked, "Mommy lets go to Target to buy more..."

THANK YOU MARSAN FAMILY FOR OUR GIFTS FROM ITALY!

11-11-11

2011-11-11T06:57:00.000-05:00

I just wanted a post on 11-11-11 and thought this cartoon was cute.

Too many times we lose sight of Thanksgiving and being thankful for our blessings.

Here's to a WONDERFUL NOVEMBER and Turkey Day coming up!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-09T06:00:00.001-05:00

Enjoy It While It Lasts...

2011-11-05T19:19:00.000-04:00

Wonderful Weather + Bounce House = FUN TIMES

ENJOY IT WHILE IT LASTS...

(Before Winter Hits!)

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-02T06:00:00.000-04:00

Play as a team...

2011-11-01T08:00:00.000-04:00

Concentrate (stick our tongues out) as a team...

Happy Halloween 2011

2011-10-31T12:00:00.001-04:00

SPIDEY TIME!

"Dear Collin, It's me Oliver."

2011-10-30T08:00:00.002-04:00

Dear Collin,

It's me Oliver, your little brother. You are a really good soccer player. I always want to do everything you do, even if sometimes you get mad at me. I just want to be like you. Sometimes though... when you play soccer, it is very cold outside. I try to watch you, I really do, but once I get under a blanket, my eyes close.

I am sorry I missed your game. I was there.

Love,

Oliver

Soccer - Game 8 (END OF SEASON)

2011-10-29T14:34:00.000-04:00

Soccer has officially ended.

Today was Collin's last game of the season.

It was a great day followed by "trunk n treat" and presentation of trophies.

Collin with his coaches.

The boys with Papa and Grammy.

Thank you to everyone who came to watch Collin's games!

We appreciate the support!!

Collin and mommy.

Unfortunately daddy had to work.

We shared all the news of the day when he arrived home.

The final game was awesome!

Very competitive.

Collin scored the first goal of the game within the first minute.

He finished the day with a total of 3 goals!

Great Season Collin!

We are so very proud of you...

It is hard to believe that his third season is over.

As they say in the movies...

"Until we meet again..." Spring soccer starts in just 5 months!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-26T06:00:00.001-04:00

Zoo Boo 2011

2011-10-23T11:40:00.001-04:00

The Pollert Family had a blast at Zoo Boo!

Spiderman and the Black Spiderman made an appearance.

Our dear friends, The Reinhart Family, joined us.

Laney was Jesse and Max was Woody.

Out of all the group shots, the above picture was my favorite!

Could these kids get any cuter???

Oliver as a pumpkin.

Collin as a pumpkin.

We walked the whole Zoo.

The above image is what we mostly saw.

Holding hands, walking, was how we spent the afternoon.

Yes, we had masks.

The boys wore them for the first 2 hours.

We had to ask Collin to take his off - eventually he did.

We did see animals and yes we took their pictures too.

Let's admit it, everyone that reads this blog wants to see the kids.

Therefore, the animals did not make an appearance on this blog.

The Halloween Train Ride was AWESOME!

Our boys love trains....

Our last adventure was seeing the sharks and watching the dolphin show.

Zoo Boo will always be a wonderful experience,

in which we made lasting memories with friends!

Until next time Mr. Elephant...

Soccer - Game 7

2011-10-22T20:55:00.002-04:00

Soccer is almost over...

Yes, it is true.

They are working like a team.

They pass, they keep their shape (for the most part) and they know what they need to do.

(Collin had 5 assists and zero goals. It was a great competitive game.)

On the sidelines, Oliver knows what "he can't wait to do".

Yes, it is true.

Soccer is almost over.

and what are we going to do?

Stay Tuned... Something new is starting soon!

The Pollert Possibilities QR Code

2011-10-19T10:24:00.005-04:00

Please Note: "The Pollert Possibilities" now has a QR (Quick Response) Code.

(Located at the bottom of this blog.)

You just need to upload the QR Scan application on your smartphone (free).

Once you scan with your phone, you are directly linked to our blog.

Are we high tech or what!!!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-19T06:00:00.000-04:00

Soccer - Game 6

2011-10-15T19:12:00.000-04:00

Today was a nice, cold, windy October day,

and...

Collin had 5 goals!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-12T06:00:00.000-04:00

Zoo Boo 2011 - Coming Soon...

2011-10-11T15:23:00.001-04:00

In two weeks we are meeting some friends for Zoo Boo 2011!

Last night is a conversation I had with Collin about our upcoming trip.

Mommy: "Collin. In two weeks we are going to go to Zoo Boo."

Collin: "What is that mommy?"

Mommy: "Zoo Boo is when you get to go "trick or treating" at the Zoo dressed in your costume. We get to see activities like Elephant Pumpkin Smash, Bat Feed, and go on a Halloween Train Ride. There are so many fun activities to do."

Collin: "YEAH! Seriously that sounds awesome. I can wear my black Spiderman costume? Oliver can wear his red and blue Spiderman costume?"

Mommy: "Yes, you can wear your costume all day long."

Collin: "Like a fashion show. Like you, me and Oliver watched on Olivia (cartoon)?"

Mommy: "Exactly like Olivia. Doesn't it sound like fun?"

Collin: "OH YES!"

Collin: "Mommy? I am going to be the Black Venom instead."

Mommy: "Collin you are the black Spiderman."

Collin: "I know but I am going to pretend that I am the Black Venom in my Spiderman costume."

Mommy: "Are you sure?"

Collin: "I promise to not scare anyone. I know I can be SUPER SCARY!"

Any bets on who will show up at Zoo Boo, Black Venom or Black Spiderman?

Soccer - Game 5

2011-10-09T17:24:00.000-04:00

The soccer season is flying by...

We are already to week 5 - three more weeks remain.

The boys are getting used to everyone and how they play.

This is evident in the score.

It is harder to score now than before.

For game 5, Collin had no goals.

We told Collin, "even though you didn't have any goals, you had assists. You helped your team members score. You are all playing as a team now, which is WONDERFUL".

Now you can hear the boys cheering on their team members.

This is exactly what this league aims for, what they strive for them to achieve...

Play like a team!

Now I know why the league starts at 3 years old!

Brother Like YOU!

2011-10-07T06:00:00.002-04:00

"I've been blessed to have a brother like you, you're my pal, my buddy and my best friend too.

And it means a lot having a brother like you."

Steve Jobs - Thank you for your vision!

2011-10-06T08:24:00.001-04:00

Thank you for your brilliance, your dedication, your vision.

Thank you for bringing us some of the best electronics in the world!

Without my Apple products, my life/our society would not be the same.

Once again, life teaches us a lesson...

It doesn't matter how much money you have, or how smart you are,

none of us know exactly how much time we have.

Live life to the fullest and treasure every second of every day!

Wordless Wednesday - Rocks

2011-10-05T06:00:00.002-04:00

Where is Oliver?

2011-10-03T08:00:00.001-04:00

In The Refrigerator!

This little handful will disappear in a split second.

I turn around and notice he has opened the refrigerator and is hiding in there.

(Giggles can also be heard throughout the house.)

Collin doesn't even turn around, he just yells, "Mommy, Oliver is in the refrigerator again".

This leads to more giggles from Mr. Oliver.

Soccer - Game 4

2011-10-02T11:55:00.001-04:00

Game 4 was COLD!

It was also team picture day so we were at the fields at 8:30am.

Collin scored 1 goal.

Good Game Collin!

(Oliver didn't see it because he was buried in my lap... freezing! Cuddle time for mommy.)

It's October...

2011-10-01T06:00:00.001-04:00

Mr. Bones and Lil' Bones wanted to welcome the month of October!

October... Our favorite time of the year!

We are ~~counting~~ asking daily ~~down the days~~ to pick our pumpkins.

Actually Collin is asking daily to be the Black Spiderman.

It goes something like this...

Monday: "Mommy can I wear my costume today to daycare?"

Tuesday: "Mommy can I wear my costume to preschool?"

Wednesday: "Mommy can I wear my costume to soccer practice?"

Thursday: "Mommy, daddy is going to the store. Can I go with him and wear my costume?"

Friday: "Mommy, are we done with school this week? Can I wear my costume to bed tonight?"

Soon enough, the Black Spiderman will make his debut!

"Such a little boy..."

2011-09-30T08:25:00.004-04:00

Date: Wednesday Night (09/28/11)

Setting: Collin's Bed

Incident: Oliver vomits in Collin's bed, after bath,

while they are watching a quick movie before bed.

Collin: "OLIVER JUST PUKED IN MY BED! HELP!"

(Adam and I run into Collin's bedroom. There sits both boys... crying. Oliver is crying because he just vomited. Collin is crying because it got on his socks. Instantly, Adam grabs Oliver for a bath while I start the dreadful process of cleaning the room.)

Collin: "Mommy, I am just going to leave this room right now. You got it under control?"

Mommy: "Yes, Collin. Thank you for asking." (While smiling...)

Collin: "Yeah, I gotta go. It stinks in here. Hurts my nose."

(20 minutes later. Oliver is clean. Collin's room is clean. Everyone is relaxing for the night. I finally sit down and ask Oliver if he wants to sit on my lap.)

Oliver: (Vomits... again.)

Mommy: "Daddy please hurry and get me a towel, a blanket, anything so it doesn't get on the couch or the floor."

Daddy: (Stands there like a deer in headlights.)

Mommy: "Hurry Daddy. I am catching it in my hands and I am completely covered in it."

Oliver: (Still vomiting...)

Daddy: "What should I do?"

Mommy: "Seriously.... help me!"

Collin: (Crying)

(After snapping my husband out of his "I don't know what to do phase", he takes Oliver for another bath. I am now completely covered in vomit, trying to clean up our living room now. Collin is crying.)

Mommy: "Sweetie what is wrong? Oliver is fine. He just has a upset stomach."

Collin: (Simply states) "Mommy I am sad. Oliver is such a little boy... with alot of puke. It just kept coming. His belly isn't that big. Where did it all come from? I gotta leave this room too."

Collin always amazes me on how much older he is getting and the comments that come out of his mouth. Our little boy is growing up and he honestly deeply cares about his brother. We ended the night with Oliver sound asleep and Collin telling me, "Mommy, I think Oliver is done sitting in my bed to watch movies. Santa Clause needs to bring him his own TV for his room."

Wordless Wednesday - We LOVE Dylan's Candy Bar

2011-09-28T06:00:00.001-04:00

Soccer - Game 3

2011-09-24T16:03:00.000-04:00

2 Goals

Great Job Collin!

Our COLLIN

2011-09-23T08:00:00.002-04:00

COLLIN was born on January 13, 2007 @ 6:44am.

He is 4 years old. "Almost 5. Seriously.. so close" as Collins says.

He is FULL of energy.

He is soft hearted and very loving.

He has a "special heart" as we tell him.

He loves his little brother more and more, starting to take him under his wing.

He wants to be a Train Engineer when he grows up.

He is very active, he is our soccer star!

He is our first, our beginning.

He is our oldest.

That is our COLLIN!

Our OLIVER

2011-09-22T08:00:00.003-04:00

OLIVER was born on July 16, 2009 @ 9:15pm.

He is two, going on twenty!

He is head strong.
He is determined.
He has a smile that lights up any room
and...

often a poker face that will not crack.

He doesn't mind his glasses.

He wants to do whatever his big brother is doing.

He is our joy!

He is our youngest.

That is our OLIVER!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-21T06:00:00.005-04:00

Watching... Wondering... Wishing...

2011-09-20T08:00:00.001-04:00

"ONE DAY...

WE WILL

BE BIG!"

(Not if your mommy's can help it.)

Live LARGE... Start your week off BIG!

2011-09-19T06:00:00.001-04:00

We sure are.

"Good Morning!"

2011-09-18T06:00:00.000-04:00

This is how we rock our bed head!

Collin's hair typically lays, Oliver... well it depends.

HAPPY SUNDAY!

Here's to morning cartoons and afternoon football.

Our FAVORITE kind of day!

Soccer - Game 2

2011-09-17T16:12:00.009-04:00

Today Collin scored 4 Goals!

Way to go Collin!!

He still started the game a little nervous... a little apprehensive of the bigger boys.

He soon felt comfortable. He was ready to play.

He started a follower and grew to a leader.

He makes us proud every time he takes to the field.

Little boys watched him, aching to play.

"Go Collin Go" was their chant.

Our family princess/cheerleader was also there.

Until next week...

Great Job Collin/Spiderman!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-14T06:00:00.001-04:00

Oliver's New Glasses

2011-09-13T07:11:00.005-04:00

"Something has changed,

I think you will see.

I am still the same,

inside of me.

I wanted to share that

something new.

Do you like my new glasses?

I do too!"

Author: Penny Timmer
(Pictures taken in the MINI with my iPhone because Oliver wouldn't let me use my camera.)

Soccer - Game 1

2011-09-12T08:00:00.001-04:00

We had a nervous little soccer player on our hands on Saturday.

Also, a little brother who wanted to play too!

Collin was nervous with so many other players just as fast as him.

He did great, a little apprehensive at times, but overall a great first game.

He scored one goal and assisted on another -

he is learning to pass to team members.

Way to go Collin!

We Will Never Forget!

2011-09-11T16:43:00.003-04:00

We Will Always Remember!

God Bless America... ALWAYS.

For those who are with us now and for those who will always be remembered,

never forgotten.

He Shoots, He Scores! SOCCER TIME

2011-09-09T07:23:00.011-04:00

"Kick It Up To The Next Level!"

--
That is exactly what Collin did.

Collin's fall soccer has officially started and he was placed in the U6 League.

What does this mean?

It means Collin is playing with kids at least a year older than him.

Check out the picture, he is one of the smallest.

Yesterday, the season started once again.
The practice started off with a scrimmage.
The goal was to evaluate the strong players and the not so strong players.
From there, they divided the U6 into the two groups, depending on skill level.

Of course, 30 seconds into the scrimmage,
Collin stole the ball and SCORED the first goal of the season!

Collin now practices with the strong players.
Our big boy now gets tired.
He told me this morning driving to daycare,

"Mommy, I play with bigger boys than me. Tomorrow I think I will score 10 goals. That is a good number don't you think Mommy?"

Tomorrow: Saturday, First Game.
Let's see how our Soccer Star does.

Collin: "I got new shoes. Now I am super fast. Go Westside United!"

Wordless Wednesday - New Hats!

2011-09-07T08:00:00.001-04:00

"KATE's" New Big Brother...

2011-09-06T10:00:00.001-04:00

Meet "YANKEE".

The newest member of the Pollert Household.

"Oh Coconuts" is gone. We are sad, she was a great car!

We are super excited for "YANKEE"!

(Yes, we name all of our vehicles.)

A Cousins Photo Shoot

2011-09-05T12:10:00.008-04:00

"Oh, tell me, please tell me, is there a trick

to get cousins to sit still, even real quick?

One giggles, one wiggles, one tugs on another.

One crawls, one tickles, then they pile on each other.

At the end of the day, when all's said and done,

taking pictures with cousins,

is WAY TOO MUCH FUN!"

Author: Beth Rogers

Happy Labor Day 2011!

UPDATE: Oliver's Eye Apt.

2011-08-31T12:35:00.003-04:00

Today, Oliver and Mommy attended Oliver's Eye Specialist apt. Dr. Sprunger was extremely happy with Oliver. His eyes look great, he sat perfectly still, mommy and daddy are doing wonderfully by encouraging Oliver and staying on him to wear his glasses (that job isn't hard, he likes to wear them). Since Oliver is growing, his eyes have changed some and we do know for sure that he has a astigmatism is both eyes. Usually people refer to it as a "stigmatism" but it is actually a "astigmatism". This means that both of Oliver's eyes are not perfectly round. It is usually caused by a irregular-shaped cornea. What does this mean for Oliver? NEW GLASSES! His current glasses are still good, they will now become his back-up glasses. So stay tuned for Mr. Professor Oliver II. Mommy just ordered his square black framed glasses (same rubber material). He looks so cute, even cuter than his gray glasses. If that is even possible...

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-31T06:00:00.000-04:00

Halloween Preview...

2011-08-29T15:18:00.002-04:00

I am a super Planner. I have always planned way ahead for events.

For example: The Pollert household Christmas shopping has already started and I will be done by November 1st. A little OCD, maybe. Excellent Planner, definitely.

With this information...

It should be no surprise that my boys have their Halloween costumes already.

Yes, we tried them on. Yes, the boys LOVE them.

Enjoy the Halloween Preview...
"Collin as the Black Spiderman"

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-24T06:00:00.000-04:00

Checkers Anyone?

2011-08-22T07:59:00.006-04:00

What Apple does to my FAMILY

2011-08-19T07:09:00.009-04:00

These days we enjoy quite a bit of "Tech Time" together.

I have always been a Apple user since I can remember.
Growing up, my family has always had a Apple computer.

Currently the Pollert household has a combination of Apple products;
iphones, ipads, Apple computer, itouch and ipod nano.

My boys are huge fans.
Collin and Oliver ask daily to see the ipad.
I have found several educational games for them to play.
Both are not allowed to play any other games until they do 5 letters & soon some math skills.
We limit their access by playing outside and being physical during the day.

The ipads come out at night, right before bath, after they eat their dinner.

Adam and I have time to catch up on the news while they enjoy "Tech Time".
Crazy to think what Apple has done to my family.

We now have "Tech Time".

I now know why Apple has more money that the United States government.
Currently, I am planning another trip to the Apple Store...

Have a great "Tech Day"!

Wordless Wednesday - Alphabet Soup...

2011-08-17T06:00:00.000-04:00

Paper Camera App - Tutorial by Collin, Oliver and Mommy

2011-08-14T08:00:00.003-04:00

I have a new favorite App!

"Paper Camera"

To show you just how cool it is, the boys and I practiced with it.

It's simple, just snap a picture with your camera on your iphone or ipad.

Before you snap away, you can pick what type of filter "paper" you want to use.

The app allows you to adjust contrast, brightness and lines.

Just snap and it is instantly saved into your photos file.

Even though the boys were running around like crazy,

laughing at mommy for trying to take their pictures... we had a great time!

We made some interesting pictures...

and continued to laugh once we were finished.

Happy "Paper Camera" Day!

"Try it.... You like it..."

"Try it.... You like it...."

2011-08-11T07:43:00.004-04:00

Preschool + Collin = WONDERFUL

Collin is learning so many things through education which has had a positive effect on him mentally and with his personal growth. We couldn't be more proud of him! Because of preschool, we have a new ritual in our household. At preschool, when the children sit down for lunch, if there is something on your plate you don't like, everyone chants "Try it... You like it...". If you know Collin, you know he is a picky eater. He would rather be playing than eating. Oliver, on the other hand, would rather be eating than playing. So over the past month, we have started the chant at home and it is working. To date, Collin has tried everything that we have chanted and he has relized that he actually likes 80% of the items he tries. The chant makes trying new things fun and Collin in turn will chant to us, so he sees that mommy and daddy also will try new things. It is all about leaving your comfort zone and simply just "trying it". We have explained to Collin that it is ok to not like certain foods, activities, etc. but you have to at least "try it" before you can make that decision. So if you have a picky eater at home, I suggest the family chant. It works for us.

"Try it.... You like it...."

"Try it....You like it...."

(Oliver adds clapping to the chant which adds excitement.)

Wordless Wednesday - Too Early Mom For A Picture...

2011-08-10T06:00:00.001-04:00

"When I go to work..." per Collin

2011-08-05T08:39:00.005-04:00

(SETTING: Driving to Daycare, Monday Morning - 6am)

Collin: "Mommy, you taking Oliver to daycare and then me to work?"

Mommy: "Work, what do you mean sweetie?"

Collin: "Mommy, I am a train engineer. Time for work. The train station is coming up, but we can take Oliver to daycare first. There is no tables there, just tracks so I don't need you to pack me a lunch. I will eat when I get home."

(We drive over a huge train yard with a train station on our way to daycare every morning. Usually it is dark so sometimes we stop on the bridge and watch the trains depart with their lights on. The boys LOVE it! I do too.)

Mommy: "Collin, I am sorry but today you are going to daycare and then preschool tomorrow. When you get older, you can be a train engineer. First you need to go to school and college."

Collin: "hmm... older. Like when I am 10 mommy?"

Mommy: "You will probably be 18 when you graduate high school and then probably 22 when you graduate college. Not 10 sweetie but probably 22."

Collin: "OK mommy. When I am 22, I still won't need you to pack me lunch. I will eat when I get home. Remember, there are no tables there, just tracks. Remember mommy?"

Mommy: "I remember my train engineer. You still going to be living at home after college when you work at the train station?"

Collin: "Yes (looking puzzled), in my room with Spiderman, Batman, all my old trains, Lighting McQueen and my ipad. Remember though. I don't need a lunch. I will eat when I get home, probably cheese and chips."

Mommy: "Sounds good Collin. I love you train engineer!"

Collin: "Love you too Mommy. I am a awesome train engineer!"

Oliver: "Choo, Choo!"

(I LOVE MY MORNING DRIVES WITH MY TWO BOYS)

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-03T06:00:00.000-04:00

"Our Family" by Collin

2011-08-02T05:26:00.002-04:00

Can you guess who is who?

HINT: Adam has dark hair (left) and Oliver has four eyes (bottom right).

Collin is standing next to me at the top right.

Collin made this picture for me and I just love how artistic he is becoming and I love that he loves art. It is another activity we like to do which teaches patience and is a great focus activity. Even Oliver is enjoying our art sessions.

Stay tuned for his works of art!

Oliver's 2 Year Portraits

2011-07-31T08:00:00.001-04:00

Oliver just had his 2 year portraits taken.

Sorry for the small pictures, for some reason I don't have rights to make the proofs bigger.

Enjoy!

Saying Goodbye...

2011-07-29T08:00:00.000-04:00

One of my dear friends is moving back to Savannah.

I am going to miss her like crazy.

I am not good with goodbyes. I dread them.

Instead of saying goodbye, we got our kids together for the last time.

They played, while we talked.

We talked as if nothing was changing.

We talked as if we were going to see each other the next day.

We talked as if we were going to have coffee together on Monday, like every Monday before.

We talked about design, travel, new apps we purchased.

We didn't say goodbye.

Until next time...

Sad to say...

goodbye.

Artwork from my Boys

2011-07-28T07:39:00.004-04:00

Adam (Daddy) has been in Las Vegas all week for work (and we have dearly missed him).

It has just been Mommy and her boys.

We have had a blast playing, baking, doing arts and crafts, etc.

Yesterday, the boys went and played with Cousin Clayton and Cousin Lacey.

When I went to pick them up and bring them home,

I opened their bag and the above artwork was on top.

Melts a mother's heart. I just love my two little boys.

Thank you Collin and Oliver for my artwork (and Aunt Lindsay for her assistance).

Mommy LOVES you both more than you will ever know!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-27T06:00:00.000-04:00

FINALLY! A Deal....

2011-07-26T14:56:00.002-04:00

This cartoon by Gary Varvel for The Indianapolis Star made me smile.

Counting down the days for FOOTBALL SEASON!

GO COLTS!!

Happy 31st Birthday Adam (Daddy)!

2011-07-25T08:00:00.000-04:00

We love you!

Pony Tail

2011-07-24T06:00:00.000-04:00

I often get asked,

"Don't you want a daughter?"

"Are you going to have more kids?"

"Do you want to try for a girl?"

"Are you sad that you only have boys?"

Let's get something straight...

I love my two boys more than anything in this world.

I wouldn't trade them for 100 girls. When we found out that we were having both boys, I was over the moon, probably more than Adam. Truthfully, I could have 10 more boys, but now, we are happy with the two little men we have.

Daughters are wonderful, trust me, I know since I was one!

I am a great mother to boys. I just adore them.

Yes, there are things you can do with girls that you can't with boys.

But I have found some things I can do with boys, just like girls.

Exhibit A: Oliver's pony tail!

I promise I didn't take him in public like this.

Cousin Lacey had her hair in pig tails and I wanted to see Oliver with a tail.

So stinkin cute!

He didn't mind. He might when he is 18 though.

Deathly Hallows Part 2 Casts a Spell on Box Office

2011-07-23T06:00:00.001-04:00

Adam, my mom and I saw it on opening weekend!

Have you seen it?

"Execto Patronum"

"Incarcerous"

"Accio"

"Expelliarmus"

"Partis Temporus"

"Lumos"

(Just a few of the spells that we heard/saw)

MOVIE.DID.NOT. DISAPPOINT.

We loved it and it makes me want to go and read the whole series all over again.

After seeing the movie, I am again Potter obsessed.

If you haven't see it, let me know. I would be ECSTATIC to see it again!

"Bombarda"

"Evanesco"