Life in Love with Lady O

Happy Valentine's Day!

2012-02-14T09:58:00.000-06:00

43 Years...

2012-02-12T21:24:00.001-06:00

MXC's Retirement

2012-02-12T21:11:00.002-06:00

We celebrated my Dad's last night - adults only, much to Olivia's chagrin. What a wonderful night!

More of That Old Lady

2012-02-12T21:05:00.006-06:00

Oh, to be a fly on the wall.

A motley crew!

This Old Lady

2012-02-10T16:59:00.003-06:00

Our gal Liv dressed up as a 100 yr old lady to celebrate her 100th day of school.

She came home with some drawings and thoughts about being 100 years old:

"When I am 100 years old, I will take a nap."

"I could eat 100 apples, but I would never eat 100 gumballs."

"My Mom told me 100 times to clean my room and my Dad told me 100 times not to eat cherries."

Their New Favorite Thing

2012-02-10T13:20:00.001-06:00

Super Sunday

2012-02-05T22:00:00.002-06:00

Sunday was not really about the game, at all, for this crew. Nope. It was all about toys, barbies, baths and dance parties. I much prefer that to football anyway.

Tea with the Ladies

2012-02-04T16:28:00.002-06:00

Olivia requested heart tea cakes

Leo napped for the duration of the party, but was lucky enough to see Esme beforehand. He loves her!

Sarah, Olivia, Mara, Susie, Maggie and Kennedy. Esme opted out of the pic.

Beet chips!

Valentines for their parents

Goody bags

Included in the goody bags - homemade snickers bars

Olivia had some girlfriends over today for a Valentine's Day tea party. We had heart shaped sandwiches, carrots and dip, beet chips, and a delicious jello dish that Auntie Aimee contributed. Dessert was mini cupcakes and heart cakes - all washed down with ice cold strawberry water, the girls loved that.

Like a Boss

2012-01-28T20:29:00.002-06:00

Leo put away the pasta well, like a boss. Fist-fulls of it. And bread, salami and calamari.

Tuffano's

2012-01-28T20:25:00.000-06:00

One might think that Olivia and Leo were served wine in lieu of water.

Children's Museum

2012-01-28T20:22:00.001-06:00

We ventured out to the Children's Museum at Navy Pier - for those who have never been, don't bother. Naperville is much nicer. But, the kids loved it, and Leo especially loved the DJ. He had no problem busting out his moves in front of the crowd.

Almost Sleep Over

2012-01-28T13:41:00.002-06:00

All of the SJF Daisys and Girl Scouts gathered in Kane Hall for an "almost sleepover" - treats, manicures, hair extensions and Just Dance. They had a blast.

Pizza Pie

2012-01-28T13:37:00.001-06:00

Smells like play-doh, though.

Mr Personality

2012-01-24T20:29:00.001-06:00

Hamming it up with a snack

Leo has gloves that are sharks - sometimes he takes them and makes growling sounds (they have teeth, so I'm sure he's linking them with his favorite lions) and then he snuggles them.

In the Palm of his Hand

2012-01-23T19:56:00.002-06:00

And He will raise you up on eagle's wings,
Bear you on the breath of dawn,
Make you to shine like the sun,
And hold you in the palm of His Hand.
You need not fear the terror of the night,
Nor the arrow that flies by day,
Though thousands fall about you,
Near you it shall not come.

***

Father Tom recommended this little figurine for Olivia, and it is perfect.

City Dates

2012-01-23T19:37:00.002-06:00

To be honest, looking at these pictures of the Notebaert are so heartbreaking to me. This was the Saturday before, and I was so nauseous and tired - but had cancelled on Liv twice before, so we stuck to our plans and headed into the city. Olivia was bursting with excitement. We both had butterflies land on us that day - something that had never happened before. I had hoped in my heart it was a sign that all would be well.

***

The weekend after that, we went to the Shedd. Olivia loved it, as did Leo. Especially the dolphins!

Miss Valentine

2012-01-23T19:16:00.001-06:00

Olivia loves all things Valentine, especially hair bows.

Poor Guy

2012-01-23T19:15:00.000-06:00

Our pal Leo came down with a nasty stomach bug on Wednesday, and ended up in the ER for some Zofran and an IV.

Help Comes in All Sizes

2012-01-23T19:09:00.000-06:00

Today was rough. An early start with some difficult appointments, continuing into a busy work day. Later on, I was walking to pick up Olivia when I heard a little voice: "Hi Megan!" I turned to see Molly, a 7th grader who lives on our block. She started walking toward me, and reached out to give me a big hug, and with tears running down her face, said she was sorry. Sweet, sweet girl.

Tender Mercies

2012-01-16T18:25:00.000-06:00

Last Sunday, our lives split into two. The before, and after.

Before - pregnant with our 3rd child, I was so sick. Beyond nauseated and anemic. But, we were so happy - Olivia was thrilled. Leo would undoubtedly cover the baby with his trademark kisses. The baby would share Leo's room. They'd be 2 years apart, and Olivia would be 6 years older.

After - we lost the baby. I lost quite a lot of blood, and as I was told, nearly my life.

The pain and difficulty of this has blindsided us. Telling Olivia, I felt my heart break as I watched her sweet face register confusion, and then crumple as our news sunk in.

This pregnancy was by no means easy, from the various shots I had to take, to the appointments, to the complications that came with my subchorionic bleed. To make things easier, I came up with what I called "tender mercies" in my head. Small signs that the good always outweighs the bad. Sometimes a shot would not hurt. Almost all bleeding episodes happened at home. And when they didn't, there was a wheelchair and a kind stranger to help. The fact that I work from home and could easily be on bed rest. The most frequent mercy would be seeing our baby on the weekly ultrasounds, thriving. We decided that we would come up with a strong name for the baby, knowing that it had been a tumultuous pregnancy. On Sunday, we learned that the baby was a boy. We named him Vance Michael, after our Dads, two of the strongest men we know.

As our hearts continue to break anew, with that darkness comes light. The tender mercies of those who love us. The frequent calls, the patient ears, the endless help with Olivia and Leo. The texts from friends checking in, bringing meals and baked goods. The shelter I found to donate my maternity clothes and other items to is, ironically, called The Well of Mercy.

Mercy seems to have followed me through this pregnancy. I will admit, it can be hard to see through my cloud of grief. But I know it has been there, and will continue to be.

Nap Head

2012-01-07T08:33:00.004-06:00

Hide and Seek

2012-01-07T08:33:00.001-06:00

Oh, what a sweet guy. He's graduated to hiding behind things other than his chubby little hands.

Back to School

2012-01-07T08:31:00.001-06:00

Almost every morning Olivia feigns a stomach ache, hoping to get out of going to school. So it was a welcome surprise that the first day back after Christmas break, and she was excited. And nervous, claiming: "I have butterflies, I feel like I'm starting high school."

New Year's Day

2012-01-07T08:26:00.001-06:00

Olivia waited for Esme while we caught up with Auntie Barb, Uncle Bob, Uncle Tom and Linda.

Liv then took my camera and snapped some pics of her own, including this one.

And this.

Ready to party!

A quick outfit change for Liv, and the girls start playing.

Ah, "Beo" is reunited.

Emmett kindly shares his tools and expertise when it comes to fixing things.

Leo is both parts impressed and astounded at Emmett's screwdriver prowess.

Olivia, your hoarding is showing.

We had a delightful day at my parents house, kids playing and laughing, and we got to spend some quality time with aunts and uncles. Here's to a fantastic 2012!

NYE

2012-01-01T09:10:00.002-06:00

We decided to head to a local establishment to celebrate the Irish NY with the kids. We walked out of Quigley's (way too crowded) and then got the boot from Cork and Kerry (no kids allowed!). We ended back at our neighbors and the kids had a blast. Leo especially - he was such a ham.

Dinner Date

2011-12-31T13:01:00.003-06:00

Make-up!! Most has very little pigment - the girls spent quite a bit of time applying, and I couldn't really tell.

Papa's stuffed shells for dinner. Maggie kept calling them taco shells.

Hot coco for dessert!

Birds of a Feather

2011-12-28T14:53:00.001-06:00

Oh Leo, you and that face. He really stuck to Steve's side on the day after Christmas, even pausing for a turkey sandwich break.

Mr. Fixit

2011-12-28T14:51:00.003-06:00

Leo followed Steve around with a screwdriver, helping to put together new toys.

Cheese

2011-12-28T14:50:00.003-06:00

Odd, how Leo interprets this as a smile.

"The City"

2011-12-28T14:49:00.001-06:00

In line for her favorite treat, a soft pretzel.

Leo loved the tree, Olivia loves the story of Mom and Dad's engagement.

An impromptu visit to see the tree downtown, followed by dinner at RJ Grunts. Olivia is always a delight to eat out with, and Leo can be a challenge. He did have his moments, when he was head-banging to the music while shoving a hot dog in his face.

Christmas Concert

2011-12-28T14:44:00.000-06:00

I completely forgot to post these pics! Olivia had her school Christmas concert last week. What a joy - the kids were all so excited to play their parts, and they all did great jobs. Olivia was an angel whose line was "a child of God has been born."

They performed two days - once for parents and family, and the second time for their school. I imagine there was a bit more nervousness to perform in front of their peers!

Christmas Day

2011-12-26T15:55:00.003-06:00

A little zip line fun on Christmas.

The Cat is out of the Bag

2011-12-26T14:02:00.001-06:00

Olivia is so, so excited. Oddly enough, she had said to me a couple of weeks ago that I had a baby in my stomach, and that it was very small and would come out on her birthday. Which is true - due date is July 11th. It has been a bit of a rough ride so far, so as we make our news public we also ask for you to send some good thoughts our way.

By the way, Leo knew before Olivia. He's pretty good at keeping a secret.

Delightful

2011-12-26T13:22:00.001-06:00

There is such joy in watching little ones and their excitement over Christmas. Olivia is old enough to understand the meaning, and was very thankful that Jesus was celebrating his birthday with all of us. Leo was beside himself with toys, loving each and every one - even clothes!

Christmas Eve

2011-12-26T13:19:00.002-06:00

Leo loved the train that went around the tree.

The girls!

Emmett and Ignatius

Emmett is a fan of older women, like Madison.

What a fun Christmas Eve. The kids were all so excited to see each other, and of course for Santa's imminent arrival.

Sweetness and Light

2011-12-12T19:19:00.002-06:00

On Saturday night, Steve took Olivia to a live Nativity set. Oh, do I wish I was there. Once the cast of characters was assembled, the crowd began to sing. Steve described it as a magical experience. Olivia was on his shoulders, in awe of the scene, singing along to Silent Night. What a special time this is for kids!

Girlfriends

2011-12-12T19:15:00.001-06:00

Olivia and Maggie sure miss their Summer Ghost in the Graveyard sessions. They do joyfully reunite in their seasonal after-school classes, this month's theme of course, is Christmas. Maggie has been a bit under the weather as of late - so we're asking for some prayers for little miss Margaret.

These two have grand plans in the works for "school break."

Christmas Tour

2011-12-12T19:04:00.000-06:00

Tonight Steve and I packed up Olivia and Leo and drove around looking at Christmas lights. Olivia was so excited - both were in their PJs and she brought some blankets to make it extra cozy. There is a fantastic block on Campbell just South of 99th - each block has cutout wooden characters lit up on their lawn.

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times

2011-12-04T19:50:00.001-06:00

What a week we've had! Olivia came down with strep throat and on top of that, some horrid virus. 5 days of high high fevers, and throwing up, which led to our doctor sending her to the ER for an IV and a dose of zofran. But the silver lining was witnessing how sweet Leo was to her. So touching.

Decking the Halls

2011-12-04T19:47:00.001-06:00

Such a stooge move!

Little Trees for the Little People

2011-12-04T19:46:00.001-06:00

Dominick The Donkey

2011-12-04T19:45:00.001-06:00

Leo's most favorite Christmas song, and the accompanying video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ok5rOO2v2dU

He shakes, shimmies, and even (gasp) pumps his fist. Pepino the Italian Mouse is also a favorite.

A Very Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T21:29:00.001-06:00

Well, it started out a bit tumultuous, with our usual wardrobe issues.

But those quickly resolved themselves and Olivia settled by the window to wait for guests.

The boys got a grooming from Grampie.

We had asked Emmett to bring his tools to fix the trail of destruction that Leo has left behind.

Some photobooth fun

We hosted Thanksgiving for our families, and are so grateful for everyone's help and delicious dishes. We had such a good time with everyone - and the kids had a blast. So much to be thankful for!

Our Guy

2011-11-13T21:23:00.001-06:00

Leo's had a bit of a cough which we assumed was allergies, but the poor guy was up all night with a fever and rash. He did bounce back after his nap, just in time to watch the Bears.

Horsing Around

2011-11-13T21:21:00.001-06:00

A spy a certain tum taking a break.

His New Favorite Thing

2011-11-13T21:20:00.001-06:00

Rolling cars, balls, even himself down the couch cushion.

The Italian Party

2011-11-13T21:17:00.001-06:00

Grandma Ev with Olivia

We all gathered at Grandma Ev's house on Friday night for a delicious meal of gnocchi, meatballs, salad and bread. It was so good! Olivia looked forward to it all week, calling it the "Italian Party."

An Open Letter

2011-11-13T20:06:00.001-06:00

Dear T-Birds,

I really like your Grease videos - can you make some more? And, can they be appropriate, like for kids! For me, Emmett and especially Hailey!

Love,
Olivia

Pasta Monster

2011-11-07T09:02:00.001-06:00

Steve made sauce and meatballs on Sunday, and Leo could not get enough. First he ate fist-fulls in his highchair. Then he moved on to a regular chair, finishing off of Steve's plate. Then he climbed up onto a stool trying to get the bowl from the counter.

Sandra Dee

2011-11-07T09:00:00.000-06:00

Olivia loves her cozy new nightgown, especially because she felt like Sandra Dee in it. Here she is, unhappy with the impending bedtime.

Ironic

2011-11-02T20:20:00.003-05:00

Leo ate some desitin the other day, at nearly the same age as Olivia.

One Cute Dude

2011-11-02T20:16:00.000-05:00

Where the Wild Things Are

2011-10-31T21:26:00.001-05:00

Kevin gave the kids a good scare.

Leo was very unsure (but not too unsure, as you can see he is clutching candy).

Trick or Treating with Leo is a whole new adventure. Olivia, Maggie and Pat are seasoned pros - Grace was just happy to be with everyone. Our guy Leo was after danger - gangways, curbs, steep concrete steps. But they all had a great time.

Verklempt

2011-10-31T10:04:00.001-05:00

It felt a little bit full circle. My Dad's life, gathered where he had worked for most of his life.

Hams, at his desk.

Our visit, captured in one shot. The girls, delirious with glee and excitement, the rest of us, listening intently.

Yellow and black, the CS&W logo - synonymous with our Dad. And, incidentally, Mom, where they met many (many) moons ago. Also: childhood friends, family friends, a strong work ethic, and overall: the right way to do things. I'd always thought that Central Steel had made a mark on my Dad - but I know now that it was he who made his mark there.

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T10:00:00.000-05:00

She's Thrilled

2011-10-30T21:45:00.001-05:00

Olivia couldn't be happier soccer is over. Although I will say her initial hesitation wore off when she realized it was a primo chat session opportunity.

Olivia, The Pumpkin Version

2011-10-23T21:21:00.003-05:00

Olivia's school has a pumpkin carving contest, and the theme needs to be a character from a book. Olivia was torn between Viola Swamp or Olivia, but she figured more people would know Olivia. Plus Miss Swamp is one scary lady.

Sunday Arts and Crafts

2011-10-23T21:18:00.005-05:00

Nonstop

2011-10-23T21:16:00.004-05:00

Nonstop camera face

Nonstop hijinks.

Happy Birthday, Bea!

2011-10-22T21:44:00.004-05:00

The usual suspects.

The birthday girl in all of her glory.

Ignatius is getting ready for Halloween with the jams and some fangs.

Ridiculous camera face.

Ignatius! Look at those cheeks!

Bea wasted no time enjoying her cake.

What a delightful party for a special little girl! Bea really kept up with the girlies, running, coloring, giggling.

Mr. Mischief

2011-10-22T21:35:00.002-05:00

Leo is always into things - tossing cars in the toilet, tearing wallpaper, drawing on furniture, walls, etc. He runs the other way when I call his name. Total trouble.

A Lady's Things

2011-10-22T09:49:00.001-05:00

This ledge serves as Olivia's bedside table - I get such a kick out of what she puts there. It could almost be mistaken for an older woman's things, the water glass, nasal spray, kleenex's and glasses. I guess last night's diary entry gives it away.

A Must

2011-10-22T09:45:00.004-05:00

Lipgloss before soccer.

Sweetness

2011-10-22T09:44:00.000-05:00

Leo had a fever earlier this week, so he stayed home and laid low.

Here's his camera face.

Bubba and His Cars

2011-10-22T09:40:00.000-05:00

Venturing Out

2011-10-19T20:29:00.000-05:00

Olivia has been so good about trying new foods. This week she enjoyed some brussels sprouts and tonight tried some roasted butternut squash soup, which we had with homemade bread and a salad. She ate everything!

Sox Park

2011-10-19T20:23:00.002-05:00

Jerry Reinsdorf's (sweet) suite

The kindergarten class took a trip to US Cellular (or Sox Park as Olivia calls it), and I was lucky enough to chaperone. They loved it, and my special girl said her favorite part was having me nearby.

In a Jam

2011-10-17T08:27:00.003-05:00

We heard some squawking this morning and found poor Leo, stuck in a stool. He quickly recovered though, excited to put his coat on and head to Durkins. Once there he gave me no less than 10 kisses - sweet, sweet boy.

Pumpkin Patch Round Two

2011-10-16T20:16:00.001-05:00

What a beautiful day! We headed to the children's farm in Palos with Nana, Papa, Auntie Gena, Uncle Mike and Auntie Meghan and Monica. Olivia was in heaven!

Animals

2011-10-16T20:07:00.004-05:00

Leo is a fan of all things furry, feathered or fin-bearing.

What Gives?

2011-10-16T20:06:00.002-05:00

Not really sure where this ultra-cheesy camera face came from.

Snacks

2011-10-16T20:04:00.003-05:00

Baked kale chips - Olivia and I ate these all last winter. Hoping she'll enjoy them in her lunch this week.

Salted carmel corn bars - these are so good!

Recipe here: http://www.shutterbean.com/salted-caramel-popcorn-pretzel-bars/

Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-15T21:19:00.001-05:00

Loved the animals - I think a visit to the zoo is in order.

Hamming it up in Uncle Mike's hat.

When I see all of our kids together it always takes me back to when we were little and all of the fun we had with our cousins. I love knowing that we are making those same memories.

Beo

2011-10-15T20:52:00.003-05:00

When we were in Minocqua sometimes we'd find ourselves accidentally saying "Beo" when calling Bea and Leo or talking about the two of them together. Born three months apart (almost to the day) these two are really starting to become pals. Although Leo tends to take it to the extreme, with overly-romantic kisses.

Saturday Soccer

2011-10-15T12:59:00.000-05:00

Beyond Obsessed

2011-10-15T08:17:00.001-05:00

Leo had been the lucky recipient of some fancy Hot Wheels for his first birthday, and I waited to give them to him - not really sure why, because ever since as he laid eyes on them, at least one has been clutched in his chubby little hand.

Someone has a new face for the camera.

He carries them, drives them up furniture, makes car sounds. and basically can not get enough.

My Littles

2011-10-15T08:07:00.002-05:00

A little pose

A little bite

A little giggle

A little scolding.

Her "Dream Come True"

2011-10-15T08:01:00.002-05:00

Olivia has been begging us to make a leaf pile so that she can jump in it. It's one of her favorite things about Fall. So yesterday, while a homemade pizza cooked in the oven, we did just that, and she was one happy little girl.

Doing his Best Blue Steel

2011-10-14T09:47:00.002-05:00

Leo got ahold of a marker (which is a daily thing) but this time painted his mouth, hands and tongue. But he doesn't discriminate - crayons will work also. In fact, during this mornings diaper change, I found evidence of last night's crayon snack.

Music To His Ears

2011-10-14T09:44:00.004-05:00

The Not-So-Skeletal Skeleton

2011-10-14T09:44:00.001-05:00

I heard some grunting, and then a giggle and turned around to find this. Which of course led to climbing on the couch and trying to jump off the back.

Halloween Reading

2011-10-14T09:42:00.001-05:00

Olivia is a big fan of the Library - one of her favorite things is to check out seasonal books. In September they were "fall" themed, and of course for the past few weeks it's been all Halloween. These are two that we've read the most - Bone Soup and Three Little Ghosties. Both adorable!

Double Fisting

2011-10-09T16:57:00.002-05:00

Is the way he rolls...

Circus in the Park

2011-10-09T16:56:00.003-05:00

Olivia and I snuck out to Mt Greenwood Park to see the Circus in the Park (thanks Auntie Gena for sitting with the Lion) - what a fantastic time! We loved every minute of the mostly acrobat/aerialist-filled show. There are 2 weekends left, showing in various parks around the city. I'd recommend it to anyone - it was so great!

Pizza Party/Raccoon Hunt

2011-10-09T16:50:00.001-05:00

We had our neighbors over on Friday for a pizza party, which turned into a raccoon hunt for the kids. Maggie willingly posed with the Bugs Bunny contraption, which was successful in feeding the critters, but not in catching one.

Park

2011-10-02T15:08:00.001-05:00

Their favorite is to play at the park after soccer. I spy an independent little dude in the background.

Olivia loves to give Leo underdogs

What a beautiful fall weekend! We are trying to get out whenever we can, knowing how cold it will soon be.

Happy 4th Birthday, Esme!

2011-09-24T22:17:00.002-05:00

Our first cousin picture including Ignatius!

The girls!

This guy loves himself some sports.

I love Esme's face in this one!

Babe wanted a piece...

We celebrated Esme's 4th birthday at Grammie and Grampie's, and what a treat it was. The kids had a blast, and it was great to see everyone. Olivia gets a kick out of Grammie Susie and Grampie B, because she feels that they are "hers" as well. Happy Birthday Esme Clare, we love you so much!

Goodness Gracious Ignatius

2011-09-24T22:01:00.000-05:00

You are so cute!

Falcon Pride

2011-09-24T14:22:00.001-05:00

Looks like a 2 yr old Olivia!

Fisher's Homecoming was today, and what a treat. Festivities kicked off yesterday for Olivia with a pep rally (pepper ally if you ask her) at school. Then the future Falcon cheerleaders welcomed the team onto the field, and performed a cheer and dance routine at halftime. Olivia loved it!

Waiting for Olivia

2011-09-23T14:11:00.001-05:00

Sports!

2011-09-23T14:06:00.003-05:00

Leo is really into playing basketball...climbing...playing catch.

Seconds later he swatted the bee off of the flower.

Bookworm

2011-09-23T14:00:00.002-05:00

Leo loves, loves his books. And I love that he loves them!

Sewers

2011-09-23T13:58:00.001-05:00

Olivia can't resist a sewer - she has to stop, find something small and hard, throw it in and listen to it land.

The Dude

2011-09-23T13:55:00.005-05:00

Seriously skeptical.

The Fest Continues

2011-09-18T12:50:00.001-05:00

Just a dude rockin' out.

Olivia always looks like the proud Mom.

Grace joined in the pic

And snuggled up to Esme.

Emmett and Leo hung back by the beer tent. I hope it is many, many years before that sentence is uttered again.

Day 3 of Fisher Fest proved to be just as fun, and Olivia and Leo were thrilled to have Esme and Emmett join in the fun. In fact, most of Fisher was thrilled to see Esme, she's well-known in these parts.

And So it Begins...

2011-09-15T21:06:00.001-05:00

First night of Fisher Fest!

Olivia calls this the "dragon wagon"

Very curious, a bit skeptical.

Sheer joy on these kids faces as they raced around to the rides. I recently read a quote - that we are living our children's childhoods. Moments that might be mundane, annoying or "just another carnival" are truly special memories for them. That makes it all worthwhile.

Little Patriots

2011-09-13T15:59:00.000-05:00

In honor of the victims of 9/11, SJF held a mass for the students who then formed a "living flag" outside of church. The bottom row is the Kindergarteners, and you can see Olivia about the 8th head in. We talked a little bit about it, and Olivia told me she wasn't happy one bit because she was too sad for all of the lives lost.

Bearssss

2011-09-11T11:38:00.000-05:00

Olivia is so excited for the Bears Game - you'd think she was part owner or something.

3rd Wheel

2011-09-11T11:35:00.001-05:00

First Soccer Game

2011-09-11T11:34:00.000-05:00

What a nice (and hot!) day for soccer. Olivia played her bestie Maggie - and was lucky enough to receive some "stay in the game" advice from her pal Patrick. As excited as she was in practice, she wanted nothing to do with the game. "Why did you sign me up for this?" she yelled from the field. She did have a nice cheering section though - Papa, Uncle Mike, Auntie Laura, Ignatius and even Chauncey!