Brayden has had a bit of a cough lately - and has been quite tired. I talked to him last night that there might be a chance of staying home if it didn't improve. Big mistake. He woke up tired and cranky and 5 minutes before we were to leave for school he talked me into staying home.
I had some plans for the day, but nothing that had to be changed because he stayed home. So, off we went to meet John to sign something, go to WinCo for gingerbread house candy for Mikayla's upcoming party and Bello to repair the damage Mikayla did this weekend to her hair with scissors. (her face is now "framed" with layers....). I am realizing just how lucky I am to have just Mikayla to run errands with because my experiences with an additonal kid along (Brayden - or cousin Nati yesterday) have sent my blood pressure soaring. (This is a medical fact, as I went to see a doctor immediately following my trip to Target with Nati and Mikayla and it was very high.... it could also have to do with the very painful headache I had at the time...). These are some of the comments that were repeatedly uttered from my mouth at various volume levels that make me so proud of my ability to be a good mom....
"If you had been listening, this wouldn't have happend!"
"It's not all about you!"
"That's enough!"
"I've had it with this behavior"
"Seriously kids, I'm about to cry, please stop."
"You are part of a family, I'd like you to start acting like it."
Needless to say, it wasn't an ideal day. Added to this list were also these phrases:
"I love you guys so much"
"Are we all better now?"
"Thank you so much..."
"You guys are doing a fantastic job together"
The negatives outweighed the positives today, but even after a serious discipline consequence with Brayden, he assured me he was still happy he stayed home. I, on the other hand, will need to see a temperature above 100 degrees the next time he tells me he "has to stay home" - Or, maybe not. Maybe the look in his eyes, the ideal of a happier day together, and the notion that he won't be 6 forever will have me saying "OK" again........
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
Monday, November 28, 2005
Bogey the Beagle
I am pleased to publicly announce the arrival of Travie and Stephie's newest arrival - Bogey the Beagle. As the pictures indicate, he's absolutely ADORABLE. While Sydney is probably close to 30 pounds now, Bogey is just about 6 pounds. It's funny, that just like having a baby, adopting a puppy brings about fast moving changes. I find myself saying, "Oh, I remember that stage, it'll pass quickly, don't worry...". Right now, Bogey plays hard and sleeps hard - he's only about 8 weeks old. But, despite this age and despite his size, he has no hesitation in holding his own with our Sydney. They play, and play, and play - with this fierce bark coming from this tiny little dog as he'll grab on to Sydney's ear or nip at the underside of her belly seeking to take any advantage he can in this "David vs. Goliath" match-up. It's so entertaining. Of course, Travie and Stephie are incredible parents- what a great life this little dog will have! Congratulations!
Saturday, November 26, 2005
An Entertaining Holiday
We had a couple of really funny moments these days surrounding Thanksgiving and the Day After. Here's my attempts at describing them:
--During Thanksgiving breakfast with my parents, sister's family, and our family we asked Mikayla to do the prayer as she had learned a cute song during pre-school that they sing to give grace prior to having snack. It was adorable, and we thought we might let her do it again and join in during the dinner meal prayer.
However, Brayden had different plans prior to dinner and asked if he could pray. We said ok and what follows was his dialogue with God as we tried desperately hard to not laugh out loud.
"Dear Jesus, I don't really have a prayer for you, and this song isn't really about you, I can't really remember the words, but here goes: (singing) 'Over the River and through the woods to Grandmother's house we go. The horse knows the way to carry the sleigh'... and that's all I know, Amen"
--Very early Friday morning, Mom met us at my house to take off for store #2 in our shopping marathon. As it is tradition, Michele and I were preparing to have our pumpkin pie breakfast. Michele asked Mom if she'd had her pie already and this was her reply:
(Laughing) "Well, last night I took an Ambien. When I woke up this morning, I discovered the pie plate from the pumpkin pie empty in the bathroom. Apparently, I'd polished off the last 3 pieces and took a bath. I have no memory of this happening. So, yes, I've already had my pie for the morning......"
--Finally, last night, Sydney had done something minor that had alarmed John. His initial "off the cuff" response was "Oh crap, dog" (which is about as nasty as John's vocabulary gets these days)... Without missing a beat, Mikayla scolded Sydney as she ran off by saying, "Oh crap, Dog!" I guess you had to be here, but it had us in stitches!
Hope your holiday had it's own share of special and entertaining moments!!
(Here's some pics of Thanksgiving day including 3 generations of women in the kitchen, 2 little girls interested in taking over Grandpa's job, and one thrilled "Traig" awaiting Thanksgiving dinner!)
--During Thanksgiving breakfast with my parents, sister's family, and our family we asked Mikayla to do the prayer as she had learned a cute song during pre-school that they sing to give grace prior to having snack. It was adorable, and we thought we might let her do it again and join in during the dinner meal prayer.
However, Brayden had different plans prior to dinner and asked if he could pray. We said ok and what follows was his dialogue with God as we tried desperately hard to not laugh out loud.
"Dear Jesus, I don't really have a prayer for you, and this song isn't really about you, I can't really remember the words, but here goes: (singing) 'Over the River and through the woods to Grandmother's house we go. The horse knows the way to carry the sleigh'... and that's all I know, Amen"
--Very early Friday morning, Mom met us at my house to take off for store #2 in our shopping marathon. As it is tradition, Michele and I were preparing to have our pumpkin pie breakfast. Michele asked Mom if she'd had her pie already and this was her reply:
(Laughing) "Well, last night I took an Ambien. When I woke up this morning, I discovered the pie plate from the pumpkin pie empty in the bathroom. Apparently, I'd polished off the last 3 pieces and took a bath. I have no memory of this happening. So, yes, I've already had my pie for the morning......"
--Finally, last night, Sydney had done something minor that had alarmed John. His initial "off the cuff" response was "Oh crap, dog" (which is about as nasty as John's vocabulary gets these days)... Without missing a beat, Mikayla scolded Sydney as she ran off by saying, "Oh crap, Dog!" I guess you had to be here, but it had us in stitches!
Hope your holiday had it's own share of special and entertaining moments!!
(Here's some pics of Thanksgiving day including 3 generations of women in the kitchen, 2 little girls interested in taking over Grandpa's job, and one thrilled "Traig" awaiting Thanksgiving dinner!)
Wednesday, November 23, 2005
Images of the Day Before Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is such a special holiday because there is still so much promise ahead. I definitely feel the let-down after Christmas, but with Thanksgiving... it's just the beginning of the fun. Today has been a wonderful Thanksgiving Eve Day- surprise gifts given, surprise gifts received, family around, a PRECIOUS Harvest Program with Mikayla's pre-school, and lots of food preparation with Michele and the kids. Here are a couple of pictures - I especially like Sydney's efforts in helping to bake!
Monday, November 21, 2005
Almost The Most Wonderful Day of the Year
This is one of my favorite cards - I hope it comes up clear enough to understand...
What follows are the "ingredients" to a successful all-day super shopping spree for myself, my sister and my mom. Perhaps they might serve helpful to you, but no matter how you spend your Thanksgiving and "Day After" holiday - I hope it's wonderful!
1. Prepare accordingly. Scour ads the night before and prioritize your shopping trip based on opening times and priority items. Wake up early as needed....
2. If one must torture their body to wake up at such an uncomfortable hour - pamper it with last night's dessert. Have gladwear containers, plastic cuttlery and Reddi-Whip available to eat on the way to your first destination. As needed, aim Reddi-Whip directly into mouth.
3. Take cell phones with you - and take them into each store - turned on.... (can you tell we've had problems with this in the past?)
4. The first one succesful in finding their prize items within a store should then volunteer to stand in line. Shopping can be continued by the other two - but at least the first has reserved a place in line.
5. When choosing a line, consider the pharmacy, customer service and jewelry counters. In Target and Shopko, always stay to the aisles to the left (as you are facing the check-outs). We've seen the lines to the right all merge into one - with only a couple check-outs to accommodate them. It's sad...
6. Make a point to secretly share the good fortune of a well-chosen line with one merry shopper stuck in a bad line. It feels good.
7. Plan for a caffeine infusion at about 9-10:00. It will be necessary.
8. Plan for protein of some sort to offset the caffeine and sugar you've previously poisoned your body with as needed.
9. Bring a calculator to sort out who owes what for who took the bill for each store... for us, it requires a major in calculus.
10. Save all receipts, it may be necessary to repeat this kind of day in reverse the day after Christmas!
What follows are the "ingredients" to a successful all-day super shopping spree for myself, my sister and my mom. Perhaps they might serve helpful to you, but no matter how you spend your Thanksgiving and "Day After" holiday - I hope it's wonderful!
1. Prepare accordingly. Scour ads the night before and prioritize your shopping trip based on opening times and priority items. Wake up early as needed....
2. If one must torture their body to wake up at such an uncomfortable hour - pamper it with last night's dessert. Have gladwear containers, plastic cuttlery and Reddi-Whip available to eat on the way to your first destination. As needed, aim Reddi-Whip directly into mouth.
3. Take cell phones with you - and take them into each store - turned on.... (can you tell we've had problems with this in the past?)
4. The first one succesful in finding their prize items within a store should then volunteer to stand in line. Shopping can be continued by the other two - but at least the first has reserved a place in line.
5. When choosing a line, consider the pharmacy, customer service and jewelry counters. In Target and Shopko, always stay to the aisles to the left (as you are facing the check-outs). We've seen the lines to the right all merge into one - with only a couple check-outs to accommodate them. It's sad...
6. Make a point to secretly share the good fortune of a well-chosen line with one merry shopper stuck in a bad line. It feels good.
7. Plan for a caffeine infusion at about 9-10:00. It will be necessary.
8. Plan for protein of some sort to offset the caffeine and sugar you've previously poisoned your body with as needed.
9. Bring a calculator to sort out who owes what for who took the bill for each store... for us, it requires a major in calculus.
10. Save all receipts, it may be necessary to repeat this kind of day in reverse the day after Christmas!
Saturday, November 19, 2005
Beaver and Duck Unite
This moment was captured by my brother-in-law. A little before-the-game bonding between Uncle John and Niece Ellie....too cute.
Laugh Out Loud...
It's rare that something cracks me up so much that I can't even read it aloud without losing it laughing. This was one of those finds, compliments of an email sent to my sister. Hope it makes you laugh like it did me....
FALL CLASSES FOR MEN
AT THE LEARNING CENTER FOR ADULTS
REGISTRATION MUST BE COMPLETED BY November 30, 2005
NOTE: DUE TO THE COMPLEXITY AND DIFFICULTY LEVEL
OF THEIR CONTENTS, CLASS SIZES WILL BE LIMITED TO 8 PARTICIPANTS MAXIMUM.
Class 1
How To Fill Up The Ice Cube Trays --- Step by Step, with Slide Presentation.
Meets 4 weeks, Monday and Wednesday for 2 hours beginning at 7:00 PM.
Class 2
The Toilet Paper Roll --- Does It Change Itself?
Round Table Discussion.
Meets 2 weeks, Saturday 12:00 for 2 hours.
Class 3
Is It Possible To Urinate Using The Technique Of Lifting The Seat and
Avoiding The Floor, Walls and Nearby Bathtub? --- Group Practice.
Meets 4 weeks, Saturday 10:00 PM for 2 hours.
Class 4
Fundamental Differences Between The Laundry Hamper and The Floor ---
Pictures and Explanatory Graphics.
Meets Saturdays at 2:00 PM for 3 weeks.
Class 5
After Dinner Dishes --- Can They Levitate and Fly Into The Kitchen Sink?
Examples on Video.
Meets 4 weeks, Tuesday and Thursday for 2 hours beginning
at 7:00 PM
Class 6
Loss Of Identity --- Losing The Remote To Your Significant Other.
Help Line Support and Support Groups.
Meets 4 Weeks, Friday and Sunday 7:00 PM
Class 7
Learning How To Find Things --- Starting With Looking In The Right Places
And Not Turning The House Upside Down While Screaming.
Open Forum.
Monday at 8:00 PM, 2 hours.
Class 8
Health Watch --- Bringing Her Flowers Is Not Harmful To Your Health.
Graphics and Audio Tapes.
Three nights; Monday, Wednesday, Friday at 7:00 PM for 2 hours.
Class 9
Real Men Ask For Directions When Lost --- Real Life Testimonials.
Tuesdays at 6:00 PM Location to be determined.
Class 10
Is It Genetically Impossible To Sit Quietly While She Parallel Parks?
Driving Simulations.
4 weeks, Saturday's noon, 2 hours.
Class 11
Learning to Live --- Basic Differences Between Mother and Wife.
Online Classes and role-playing.
Tuesdays at 7:00 PM, location to be determined
Class 12
How to be the Ideal Shopping Companion
Relaxation Exercises, Meditation and Breathing Techniques.
Meets 4 weeks, Tuesday and Thursday for 2 hours beginning at 7:00 PM.
Class 13
How to Fight Cerebral Atrophy --- Remembering Birthdays, Anniversaries and
Other Important Dates and Calling When You're Going To Be Late.
Cerebral Shock Therapy Sessions and Full Lobotomies Offered.
Three nights; Monday, Wednesday, Friday at 7:00 PM for 2 hours.
Class 14
The Stove/Oven --- What It Is and How It Is Used.
Live Demonstration.
Tuesdays at 6:00 PM, location to be determined.
Upon completion of any of the above
diplomas will be issued to the survivors.
FALL CLASSES FOR MEN
AT THE LEARNING CENTER FOR ADULTS
REGISTRATION MUST BE COMPLETED BY November 30, 2005
NOTE: DUE TO THE COMPLEXITY AND DIFFICULTY LEVEL
OF THEIR CONTENTS, CLASS SIZES WILL BE LIMITED TO 8 PARTICIPANTS MAXIMUM.
Class 1
How To Fill Up The Ice Cube Trays --- Step by Step, with Slide Presentation.
Meets 4 weeks, Monday and Wednesday for 2 hours beginning at 7:00 PM.
Class 2
The Toilet Paper Roll --- Does It Change Itself?
Round Table Discussion.
Meets 2 weeks, Saturday 12:00 for 2 hours.
Class 3
Is It Possible To Urinate Using The Technique Of Lifting The Seat and
Avoiding The Floor, Walls and Nearby Bathtub? --- Group Practice.
Meets 4 weeks, Saturday 10:00 PM for 2 hours.
Class 4
Fundamental Differences Between The Laundry Hamper and The Floor ---
Pictures and Explanatory Graphics.
Meets Saturdays at 2:00 PM for 3 weeks.
Class 5
After Dinner Dishes --- Can They Levitate and Fly Into The Kitchen Sink?
Examples on Video.
Meets 4 weeks, Tuesday and Thursday for 2 hours beginning
at 7:00 PM
Class 6
Loss Of Identity --- Losing The Remote To Your Significant Other.
Help Line Support and Support Groups.
Meets 4 Weeks, Friday and Sunday 7:00 PM
Class 7
Learning How To Find Things --- Starting With Looking In The Right Places
And Not Turning The House Upside Down While Screaming.
Open Forum.
Monday at 8:00 PM, 2 hours.
Class 8
Health Watch --- Bringing Her Flowers Is Not Harmful To Your Health.
Graphics and Audio Tapes.
Three nights; Monday, Wednesday, Friday at 7:00 PM for 2 hours.
Class 9
Real Men Ask For Directions When Lost --- Real Life Testimonials.
Tuesdays at 6:00 PM Location to be determined.
Class 10
Is It Genetically Impossible To Sit Quietly While She Parallel Parks?
Driving Simulations.
4 weeks, Saturday's noon, 2 hours.
Class 11
Learning to Live --- Basic Differences Between Mother and Wife.
Online Classes and role-playing.
Tuesdays at 7:00 PM, location to be determined
Class 12
How to be the Ideal Shopping Companion
Relaxation Exercises, Meditation and Breathing Techniques.
Meets 4 weeks, Tuesday and Thursday for 2 hours beginning at 7:00 PM.
Class 13
How to Fight Cerebral Atrophy --- Remembering Birthdays, Anniversaries and
Other Important Dates and Calling When You're Going To Be Late.
Cerebral Shock Therapy Sessions and Full Lobotomies Offered.
Three nights; Monday, Wednesday, Friday at 7:00 PM for 2 hours.
Class 14
The Stove/Oven --- What It Is and How It Is Used.
Live Demonstration.
Tuesdays at 6:00 PM, location to be determined.
Upon completion of any of the above
diplomas will be issued to the survivors.
Thursday, November 17, 2005
Don't Tell Me...
First of all - CONGRATULATIONS Hollie on your new arrival! I imagine you are having so many overwhelming feelings of love and exhaustion right now. Hang in there and have fun!
So, in a past blog, I wrote about spoiling my fun of watching the premiere of LOST by reading a spoiler. It was a bummer, but I got through it and learned my lesson.
Today, I read in the newspaper something that, I will admit, has me tempted. But I'm writing this to you all so that you can hold me accountable to not get sucked in - and to ask in advance that no one give me "spoilers".
One of my absolute favorite days of the year is the DAY AFTER THANKSGIVING. It makes me happy just to think about it. For as long as I can remember, my mom, my sister and I have all joined forces to hit the stores as early as 4:30 am. (Generally, more around 6, though) We have so much fun, spend a ton of money, make more progress every year we do it - and probably value it more and more for the fun that it is each year. I'll dedicate a day to talk about our details later. However, all of this description is an effort to explain how important the day is - and also how important Thanksgiving night is - just to discover what amazing deals there are out there to embrace before dawn.
So, now I'll tie it all together. Tonight I read that some college punk has already accessed those precious store ads and has a website devoted to divulging their secrets. He knows the amazing deals K-Mart and Sears and several other stores have already - and it totally bums me out! What right does he have to access that information and spoil the fun for all of us holiday shopping junkies? So, I've decided to boycott the website. I'm not passionate enough to request anyone else do the same, but, whatever you do, don't tell me what you find out!
So, in a past blog, I wrote about spoiling my fun of watching the premiere of LOST by reading a spoiler. It was a bummer, but I got through it and learned my lesson.
Today, I read in the newspaper something that, I will admit, has me tempted. But I'm writing this to you all so that you can hold me accountable to not get sucked in - and to ask in advance that no one give me "spoilers".
One of my absolute favorite days of the year is the DAY AFTER THANKSGIVING. It makes me happy just to think about it. For as long as I can remember, my mom, my sister and I have all joined forces to hit the stores as early as 4:30 am. (Generally, more around 6, though) We have so much fun, spend a ton of money, make more progress every year we do it - and probably value it more and more for the fun that it is each year. I'll dedicate a day to talk about our details later. However, all of this description is an effort to explain how important the day is - and also how important Thanksgiving night is - just to discover what amazing deals there are out there to embrace before dawn.
So, now I'll tie it all together. Tonight I read that some college punk has already accessed those precious store ads and has a website devoted to divulging their secrets. He knows the amazing deals K-Mart and Sears and several other stores have already - and it totally bums me out! What right does he have to access that information and spoil the fun for all of us holiday shopping junkies? So, I've decided to boycott the website. I'm not passionate enough to request anyone else do the same, but, whatever you do, don't tell me what you find out!
Tuesday, November 15, 2005
The Much Anticipated Answers - HA!
I forgot to give my opinion on this movie. Of course, I love it - but it is SHOCKING to watch and realize how cruel it is. Rudolph was teased without mercy and his dad and Santa said awful things to him. They would never get away with making a kid cartoon like that now.... Here are the answers!
1. Who was Rudoph's father?
DONNER
2. What song did Clarice sing to cheer Rudolph up after being teased by the other reindeer?
"THERE'S ALWAYS TOMORROW"
3. What was Rudolph's buddy, the elf's name - and why was he a misfit?
HERMIE - AND HE WANTED TO BE A DENTIST
4. What was the name of the miner that the misfits found along the way (hint, his last name was Cornelius)?
YUKON CORNELIUS - AND THE QUESTION I FORGOT TO INCLUDE, IN THE END, HE STRUCK IT RICH ON PEPPERMINT
5. Why were Rudolph and his buddies denied the opportunity to live on the island of misfit toys?
LIVING THINGS CAN'T STAY THERE
6. As Rudolph grew up, what important lesson did he learn?
YOU CAN'T RUN AWAY FROM YOUR PROBLEMS
7. How did the elf make the snow monster harmless?
PULLED HIS TEETH
8. How did the miner and "the Bumble" survive their fall?
THE BUMBLE IS THE SNOW MONSTER - AND ACCORDING TO YUKON, "BUMBLES BOUNCE"
9. What was the Bumble's job when he returned to Christmas town?
PUTTING THE STAR ATOP THE TREE
10. What was Mrs. Claus repeatedly nagging Santa to do?
EAT, EAT, EAT!
Thanks for indulging me - I might just have to do this again with my other holiday favorites...
Also, I found a cool, cozy website hosted by Starbucks. It's TheRedCup.com Cute stuff - check it out.
Hollie - I'm praying for you - Have fun......
1. Who was Rudoph's father?
DONNER
2. What song did Clarice sing to cheer Rudolph up after being teased by the other reindeer?
"THERE'S ALWAYS TOMORROW"
3. What was Rudolph's buddy, the elf's name - and why was he a misfit?
HERMIE - AND HE WANTED TO BE A DENTIST
4. What was the name of the miner that the misfits found along the way (hint, his last name was Cornelius)?
YUKON CORNELIUS - AND THE QUESTION I FORGOT TO INCLUDE, IN THE END, HE STRUCK IT RICH ON PEPPERMINT
5. Why were Rudolph and his buddies denied the opportunity to live on the island of misfit toys?
LIVING THINGS CAN'T STAY THERE
6. As Rudolph grew up, what important lesson did he learn?
YOU CAN'T RUN AWAY FROM YOUR PROBLEMS
7. How did the elf make the snow monster harmless?
PULLED HIS TEETH
8. How did the miner and "the Bumble" survive their fall?
THE BUMBLE IS THE SNOW MONSTER - AND ACCORDING TO YUKON, "BUMBLES BOUNCE"
9. What was the Bumble's job when he returned to Christmas town?
PUTTING THE STAR ATOP THE TREE
10. What was Mrs. Claus repeatedly nagging Santa to do?
EAT, EAT, EAT!
Thanks for indulging me - I might just have to do this again with my other holiday favorites...
Also, I found a cool, cozy website hosted by Starbucks. It's TheRedCup.com Cute stuff - check it out.
Hollie - I'm praying for you - Have fun......
Monday, November 14, 2005
Rudolph
This post is kind of in honor of my friend, Jodi - who astounded me with her knowledge of tv trivia. The irony is that I know I have the tv on so much more in my house, but I guess growing up, at least, she payed a lot more attention to the tv set than I ever did. I think its neat how her and her brother have bonded over their joint knowledge of tv facts.
So, as I watched Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer numerous times this weekend, I thought I'd do my own test. Now, unlike Jodi, these facts don't all come from my head - well, they do, but they were refreshed by watching the show at 9pm last night. Just see how well you know your classic Christmas cartoon facts.....
1. Who was Rudoph's father?
2. What song did Clarice sing to cheer Rudolph up after being teased by the other reindeer?
3. What was Rudolph's buddy, the elf's name - and why was he a misfit?
4. What was the name of the miner that the misfits found along the way (hint, his last name was Cornelius)?
5. Why were Rudolph and his buddies denied the opportunity to live on the island of misfit toys?
6. As Rudolph grew up, what important lesson did he learn?
7. How did the elf make the snow monster harmless?
8. How did the miner and "the Bumble" survive their fall?
9. What was the Bumble's job when he returned to Christmas town?
10. What was Mrs. Claus repeatedly nagging Santa to do?
See how well you do - I'll post answers tomorrow! Have fun....
So, as I watched Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer numerous times this weekend, I thought I'd do my own test. Now, unlike Jodi, these facts don't all come from my head - well, they do, but they were refreshed by watching the show at 9pm last night. Just see how well you know your classic Christmas cartoon facts.....
1. Who was Rudoph's father?
2. What song did Clarice sing to cheer Rudolph up after being teased by the other reindeer?
3. What was Rudolph's buddy, the elf's name - and why was he a misfit?
4. What was the name of the miner that the misfits found along the way (hint, his last name was Cornelius)?
5. Why were Rudolph and his buddies denied the opportunity to live on the island of misfit toys?
6. As Rudolph grew up, what important lesson did he learn?
7. How did the elf make the snow monster harmless?
8. How did the miner and "the Bumble" survive their fall?
9. What was the Bumble's job when he returned to Christmas town?
10. What was Mrs. Claus repeatedly nagging Santa to do?
See how well you do - I'll post answers tomorrow! Have fun....
Thursday, November 10, 2005
Family Pictures
So, yesterday we headed to a local park to take our annual Christmas family picture. The whole experience took about 20 minutes as we were working with one of John's friends who is a very gifted professional photographer, who was on a time budget- not to mention it was very cold. I'm pleased with the initial results, but it wasn't without its little snags.
Right before we began snapping shots, Sydney got loose from her leash and went running towards the Canadian Geese. Fortunately, she didn't come anywhere near the birds, but managed to smear her muzzle and eye in green goose poop! We had towels on hand, but it stained her fur lime green....
Just yesterday, Mikayla asked "Do dogs laugh?" I said, "No", but now I'm wondering.... Sydney must have been cracking up over that....
Right before we began snapping shots, Sydney got loose from her leash and went running towards the Canadian Geese. Fortunately, she didn't come anywhere near the birds, but managed to smear her muzzle and eye in green goose poop! We had towels on hand, but it stained her fur lime green....
Just yesterday, Mikayla asked "Do dogs laugh?" I said, "No", but now I'm wondering.... Sydney must have been cracking up over that....
Tuesday, November 08, 2005
Blessings in Disguise
In light of the previous post, I thought I'd ask any readers out there what have been some of your biggest blessings in disguise? In other words, what are some things that you prayed for and wanted with all of your heart one outcome, only to get the other - and later realize how thankful you were for that outcome? Here are some of mine....
1. Dave, Brinton, and Lance- honestly, I didn't see a reason to wake up the next morning when these three gentlemen broke my heart, but oh, I'm so glad they did.....
2. Money put down on a piece of property near Veneta that was to be used to build John and I's dream log home. The deal fell through because we weren't confident with the well water supply.... thank God. What a terrible decision that would have been (especially because John and I no longer dream for a log house!)
3. A valiant last-ditch effort to try to save Riles Audio by convincing an investor to put money into the business. His answer was obviously no - had it been yes, well, I'm glad it wasn't God's plan.
4. More recently, multiple houses we thought were just perfect for us to buy, that didn't end up happening. It just didn't make any sense at the time why those houses weren't meant to be for us, and now, having been living in our house and neighborhood for over a year, I think, why did we try so hard to make those work?
What are some of your stories? And, are there any that are still awaiting a "to be continued....?" (I know I an still waiting for the answer as to why Michael, Michele and family aren't living in Eugene yet.....) I'm eager to hear.
1. Dave, Brinton, and Lance- honestly, I didn't see a reason to wake up the next morning when these three gentlemen broke my heart, but oh, I'm so glad they did.....
2. Money put down on a piece of property near Veneta that was to be used to build John and I's dream log home. The deal fell through because we weren't confident with the well water supply.... thank God. What a terrible decision that would have been (especially because John and I no longer dream for a log house!)
3. A valiant last-ditch effort to try to save Riles Audio by convincing an investor to put money into the business. His answer was obviously no - had it been yes, well, I'm glad it wasn't God's plan.
4. More recently, multiple houses we thought were just perfect for us to buy, that didn't end up happening. It just didn't make any sense at the time why those houses weren't meant to be for us, and now, having been living in our house and neighborhood for over a year, I think, why did we try so hard to make those work?
What are some of your stories? And, are there any that are still awaiting a "to be continued....?" (I know I an still waiting for the answer as to why Michael, Michele and family aren't living in Eugene yet.....) I'm eager to hear.
Monday, November 07, 2005
Thank You, Lord
Another Song - I'm deeply moved by songs as I feel that they capture feelings I'm not capable of putting to words. This song was sung at our wedding, and touches me every time I hear it. I'm happy to say I've experienced all of the lyrics myself (except for catching fireflies... though I think I've seen some...). I'll follow up with simple things I've been especially thankful for this weekend...
THERE'S NOTHING LIKE THE WARMTH
OF A SUMMER AFTERNOON
WAKING TO THE SUNLIGHT
BEING CRADLED BY THE MOON
CATCHING FIREFLIES AT NIGHT
BUILDING CASTLES IN THE SAND
KISSING MOMMA'S FACE GOOD-NIGHT
AND HOLDING DADDY'S HAND
THANK YOU LORD, HOW COULD I ASK FOR MORE?
RUNNING BAREFOOT THROUGH THE GRASS
A LITTLE HIDE AND GO SEEK
BEING SO IN LOVE
YOU CAN HARDLY EAT
DANCING IN THE DARK
WHEN THERE'S NO ONE ELSE AROUND
BEING BUNDLED 'NEATH THE COVERS
WATCHING SNOW FALL TO THE GROUND
THANK YOU LORD, HOW COULD I ASK FOR MORE?
SO MANY THINGS I THOUGHT WOULD BRING ME HAPPINESS
SOME DREAMS THAT ARE REALITIES TODAY
SUCH AN IRONY THE THINGS THAT MEAN THE MOST TO ME
ARE THE MEMORIES THAT I'VE MADE ALONG THE WAY
SO IF THERE'S ANYTHING I'VE LEARNED
ON THIS JOURNEY THAT I'M ON
SIMPLE TRUTH WILL KEEP YOU GOING
SIMPLE LOVE WILL KEEP YOU STRONG
'CUZ THERE ARE QUESTIONS WITHOUT ANSWERS
FLAMES THAT NEVER DIE
AND HEARTACHES WE GO THROUGH
ARE OFTEN BLESSINGS IN DISGUISE
THANK YOU LORD, THANK YOU LORD, HOW COULD I ASK FOR MORE?
(Thank you Cindy Morgan for such an incredible song!)
So, here are some things that have stood out to me as reasons to be thankful this weekend.
- a husband who is somebody I very much enjoy - he's my total buddy and attending football games (and jointly deciding to leave half way through) really reminds me of how incredible our friendship is.
- a son, who upon successfully reaching a goal and receiving a reward, chooses a video game that he wants to give to me, because "he doesn't think I have enough" - I love that kid!!!
- a daughter who is a total joy to take shopping or on errands. My first child was the wanderer - not content to sit still or stay close by (yes, we alerted security at JC Penney once, only to find him testing the escalators). My daughter is the opposite and I find myself having so much fun go shopping with my little "girlfriend".
- a close call Duck win, made especially joyful by the trampling that Arizona did over UCLA
- that my mother-in-law, who just flew to Indiana, lives in an area not affected by the tornados
- for medicine that has been mostly effective in curbing painful headaches
- for my parents - more to come on that one, but visiting with my dad yesterday just reminds me how continually thankful I am for both of them
- for special friends who have become family - and enjoy a warm wood fire, KFC, a feisty puppy, Playstation 2, and football as much as we do.
I suppose that's enough - as Cindy Morgan says: How could I ask for more?
THERE'S NOTHING LIKE THE WARMTH
OF A SUMMER AFTERNOON
WAKING TO THE SUNLIGHT
BEING CRADLED BY THE MOON
CATCHING FIREFLIES AT NIGHT
BUILDING CASTLES IN THE SAND
KISSING MOMMA'S FACE GOOD-NIGHT
AND HOLDING DADDY'S HAND
THANK YOU LORD, HOW COULD I ASK FOR MORE?
RUNNING BAREFOOT THROUGH THE GRASS
A LITTLE HIDE AND GO SEEK
BEING SO IN LOVE
YOU CAN HARDLY EAT
DANCING IN THE DARK
WHEN THERE'S NO ONE ELSE AROUND
BEING BUNDLED 'NEATH THE COVERS
WATCHING SNOW FALL TO THE GROUND
THANK YOU LORD, HOW COULD I ASK FOR MORE?
SO MANY THINGS I THOUGHT WOULD BRING ME HAPPINESS
SOME DREAMS THAT ARE REALITIES TODAY
SUCH AN IRONY THE THINGS THAT MEAN THE MOST TO ME
ARE THE MEMORIES THAT I'VE MADE ALONG THE WAY
SO IF THERE'S ANYTHING I'VE LEARNED
ON THIS JOURNEY THAT I'M ON
SIMPLE TRUTH WILL KEEP YOU GOING
SIMPLE LOVE WILL KEEP YOU STRONG
'CUZ THERE ARE QUESTIONS WITHOUT ANSWERS
FLAMES THAT NEVER DIE
AND HEARTACHES WE GO THROUGH
ARE OFTEN BLESSINGS IN DISGUISE
THANK YOU LORD, THANK YOU LORD, HOW COULD I ASK FOR MORE?
(Thank you Cindy Morgan for such an incredible song!)
So, here are some things that have stood out to me as reasons to be thankful this weekend.
- a husband who is somebody I very much enjoy - he's my total buddy and attending football games (and jointly deciding to leave half way through) really reminds me of how incredible our friendship is.
- a son, who upon successfully reaching a goal and receiving a reward, chooses a video game that he wants to give to me, because "he doesn't think I have enough" - I love that kid!!!
- a daughter who is a total joy to take shopping or on errands. My first child was the wanderer - not content to sit still or stay close by (yes, we alerted security at JC Penney once, only to find him testing the escalators). My daughter is the opposite and I find myself having so much fun go shopping with my little "girlfriend".
- a close call Duck win, made especially joyful by the trampling that Arizona did over UCLA
- that my mother-in-law, who just flew to Indiana, lives in an area not affected by the tornados
- for medicine that has been mostly effective in curbing painful headaches
- for my parents - more to come on that one, but visiting with my dad yesterday just reminds me how continually thankful I am for both of them
- for special friends who have become family - and enjoy a warm wood fire, KFC, a feisty puppy, Playstation 2, and football as much as we do.
I suppose that's enough - as Cindy Morgan says: How could I ask for more?
Thursday, November 03, 2005
What a Deal!
John and I have realized that going on dates can be very expensive for us. There's the babysitter cost, the food - but worst of all, the shopping. Because, ultimately, we'll always end up some place that involves buying things. We've come to realize it would be cheaper for us to go to a movie - at full price - and indulge at the snack bar, than it would to "save money" by just walking around the mall!
That said, last Thursday John and I did hit the mall, but with the intention of "being good". We walked into Banana Republic (who's starting prices just make me mad.... what are they thinking?) because we had $30 worth of discounts/gift cards. John looked around and then I found a light (summery) jacket for him - on clearance. It was originally $154 (choke...), but discounted all the way down to $11.97. With the $10 gift card, that would be $1.97. I'd say we did good.
So, the next day, I found myself at Dollar Tree for party favors. While there, they announced over the loudspeaker that they just received a shipment of sweaters - Name Brand - and were found on aisle 7 - all for a dollar. I took the bait (no kids, I had the time) - and ended up scrounging through three big bins of sweaters - Abercrombie, Banana Republic, Gap, Eddie Bauer, Anne Taylor Loft, Old Navy - I was shocked! Yes, the sizes and choice of colors weren't all that great - and I'm sure they were a couple of years old - but they were new, and they were a dollar. I walked away with 6 sweaters... (Anne Taylor, Gap....) - one for my neice, one for my sister/Amy (the catfight has yet to take place on who's actually going to get it... and I felt so smug. With that particular sweater, I almost didn't get it - I had to convince myself at the check-out that for the price of a fountain pop, I could go ahead and indulge....
So, I think I scored. Any other awesome deals you feel like sharing stories of?
That said, last Thursday John and I did hit the mall, but with the intention of "being good". We walked into Banana Republic (who's starting prices just make me mad.... what are they thinking?) because we had $30 worth of discounts/gift cards. John looked around and then I found a light (summery) jacket for him - on clearance. It was originally $154 (choke...), but discounted all the way down to $11.97. With the $10 gift card, that would be $1.97. I'd say we did good.
So, the next day, I found myself at Dollar Tree for party favors. While there, they announced over the loudspeaker that they just received a shipment of sweaters - Name Brand - and were found on aisle 7 - all for a dollar. I took the bait (no kids, I had the time) - and ended up scrounging through three big bins of sweaters - Abercrombie, Banana Republic, Gap, Eddie Bauer, Anne Taylor Loft, Old Navy - I was shocked! Yes, the sizes and choice of colors weren't all that great - and I'm sure they were a couple of years old - but they were new, and they were a dollar. I walked away with 6 sweaters... (Anne Taylor, Gap....) - one for my neice, one for my sister/Amy (the catfight has yet to take place on who's actually going to get it... and I felt so smug. With that particular sweater, I almost didn't get it - I had to convince myself at the check-out that for the price of a fountain pop, I could go ahead and indulge....
So, I think I scored. Any other awesome deals you feel like sharing stories of?
Wednesday, November 02, 2005
A Bit of an Addiction
I think there might be an indication that my daughter loves sugar when I asked her today, "What would you like to do after pre-school?" and her response is "Go to Chevron and get candy". We have SO MUCH candy in our house! I can't even think of a candy item there that we don't have.... kind of sad - and even more sad, she takes after her mommy.