Happy 4th of July Weekend

Happy 4th of July to everyone. Our family enjoyed the weekend immensely. My parents came down on their annual 4th of July weekend over night trip. They spent an extra night with us this year, Friday through Sunday, and the boys loved every minute of it.



Once they get Grandpa in the house the fun never ends. If it wasn't fishing on the pond, swinging on the swing set, playing cars, riding bikes then they were after him to play more...poor Dad! I know he was tired out when he went home. They love being catered to like that. It breaks my heart to watch Wes get sad when they have to leave. I wish they could spend more time with my parents.

On Friday Chris treated us all to pulled pork done on his smoker. It was fantastic. Even my mother, picky patty eater that she is, liked it! I made home made potato salad and chocolate cake. Between all of that I felt like I ate constantly this weekend. Mom brought in a cheese cake to add to my desert frenzy. The worst part is she left more than half of the thing here! So I'm struggling to stay on the healthy eating wagon.

We all sat on our deck and watched the neighborhood firework celebration. You can usually count on several homes shooting fireworks over the pond or within view of the deck. There were fewer families home this year, but we still had a great view of some great fireworks. The boys also got to play with sparklers. We watched just as many, if not more, fireworks Saturday night!




Saturday we celebrated Connor's 4th birthday while my parents were here. His actual birthday is this Sunday, the 13th, but they won't be back again that soon. He had fun opening his gifts and decorating Sponge Bob Square Pants cupcakes. (more desert in the house) My parents got him a new shirt, a book, gardening gloves, a bean bag toss game and the biggest hit of all, a bug box complete with a net. I happened to be with her when she bought that $5 gift and wouldn't you know that out of all that other stuff he went nuts over that. You can pretty much still find him walking around with that net in his hand looking for bugs. I actually saw Chris help him catch a fly in the house yesterday!





I spent the week leading up to the 4th going crazy cleaning the house and doing odd jobs we had been putting off, like staining the deck, painting the trim around the front door and edging the sidewalk..but I'm happy to say that it was all worth it. The house and outside looked great and I think it may have even impressed my mom, although you will never hear her say it! WE had a great weekend and I hope that all of you enjoyed your 4th of July traditions as well.

Wes and Coach Pitch Baseball

Wes had his first official baseball game last night. We signed him up through our YMCA for their Coach Pitch Baseball program. So far, we are very happy with the program. He had a practice last week, with the weekly format being a half hour practice followed by a half hour game. His coach is a former employee who used to work with Chris. We were a bit concerned about that, but the guy is doing a great coaching job and I'm thrilled Wes got him as a coach!

Practice was funny last week watching these 1st and 2nd graders fielding the ball and trying to use their gloves. Wes was right about where the rest of the team was...he has a lot to learn. I was a bit concerned about how he would do at the game last night, but he did great.

They rotate putting everyone out in the field for one team and letting the entire other team bat. Probably standard operating procedure, but new to me! Wes got a hit, made a play by fielding the ball and had a lucky play at 3rd base. The ball literally bounced into his glove! That got a few laughs!

He had a great time and we got ice cream afterwards! Bonus!

Warning...long post with many unrelated topics. Read at your own risk!

This has been a strange and busy week so far. When school is out I really struggle to keep some form of a schedule going. I know it helps me to keep that and it also helps the boys, but so far, I've not done a good job of having anything resembling a schedule!

Here are a few things that have gone on so far this week:

Wes started Coach Pitch Baseball last night. He seemed to really enjoy himself. He has a lot to learn but he also has a good coach. Shocking, because the coach is a former employee who worked with Chris. We were afraid for awkwardness, but I didn't notice any and he seemed really good at working with the boys!

My regular doctor just up and cancelled my appointment for Tuesday with less than 24 hours notice. Hmmm...if I had done that I would have been charged. When I called to reschedule there wasn't an apology or even an explanation. Nice!

Wes had to have two painful warts "removed" from his right foot. Through our foot doctor we tried medication, but it wasn't working and they were really bothering him. Our doc didn't want to freeze them because Wes has always been great at her office and she didn't want him to have a bad experience. He has never complained about getting his orthopedics made or anything with her...but we probably spoiled that yesterday. We had them froze and it hurt him. I felt so bad. Everyone who I had talked to who had warts frozen said it was quick and didn't hurt. Not for poor Wes. She kept the freezing agent on each one for about 50 seconds and he was crying and hurting. Let me just say, that I felt like the worst parent for asking doc to do this procedure. Hopefully they have been taken care of and will not return.

I mowed the yard today. No biggie, but my ankle/foot was bothering me last night. So, I know I pushed it today with the yard. My ankle acts up all the time and I'm used to it. I usually just ignore it. By the time I crashed on the couch last night it was really hurting and I put ice on it. Haven't done that in years. I thought that after I went to bed I would just fall asleep and it wouldn't bother me. No luck. I couldn't sleep with it hurting...so I did something else I haven't done in years, took a vicodin. Now that did the trick. I woke up in the middle of the night and was like "wow...I'm high as a kite!" Let's just say I had a lot of weird dreams after that, but my ankle stopped hurting.

I also made my mom mad today. I haven't accomplished that in a while, at least to my knowledge. She was complaining about the price of hay. The weather has messed up the hay season, along with the price of fuel for tractors, and the price is going way, way up for hay. I suggested that seeing it was getting so expensive to keep horses that maybe it was time to get rid of them....all of them, even the good ones! That didn't go over so well. When she asked why she should sell them, I told her because they wipe out all their money and they make them sick...not to mention all the hard work they do on the farm. Her response was that it doesn't make HER sick! Being in the barn has given my dad Farmer's Lung and my mom has "asthma". I don't believe that she really has asthma, rather allergies to the barn...but that is what her quacky doctor told her, so it must be FACT! So, I guess it's okay to just make dad sick. He has to wear a breathing apparatus while he cleans stalls or does anything with hay. Does that sound like fun, especially when it is in the 90's outside? She is crazy.

Some of my plants in the new landscape aren't doing well. Actually, it's just the hydrangeas and they are dying. They seem to hate me. I know they need lots of water and I keep giving it to them...in return what do they do? They die. Only 2.5 of the 5plants are still alive. I have to call the landscaper and talk about it....but I don't want the plants death to be my fault...so I'm doing what I do best. I'm ignoring the problem. The plants haven't come back to life and I still haven't called the landscaper.

Along the same line of avoidance, I have a bunch of business decissions to make about my Silpada business. I haven't had a party in months and it isn't for lack of trying. It's the time of year where I will soon have to be retiring pieces and ording from the new fall line....I'm just not sure of what to do.

If anyone is still actually reading this....I appologize for the rambeling and remember I did warn you at the top.

Hopefully things get on track around here before we go to Flint this weekend. And, hopefully mom will be done being pissed at me, seeing I will be staying with them! Chris has to work all weekend so I'm taking the boys to Flint to hang out. We will probably have to put hay up this weekend too. Damn! I hate doing that...almost considering not going...but I know how much my dad wants to see the boys...so I guess I have to go!

Happy Father's Day

Happy Father's Day to two of the greatest men in my life. First, I want to thank my Dad for being a great father. He is patient, kind and loving. While he has always been those things to me, he been all of those and more to my sons! Wes and Connor literally worship the ground he walks on! They are always wanting to see him and never wanting to leave him. That's a pretty good indication to me of a terrific grandfather! I wish I could wish him a Happy Father's Day in person, but I haven't figured out how to be in two places at once.

Now, onto the most important man in my life, my husband. You are a fantastic father and have been from the day our boys were born. While you work a ton of stressful hours to take care of our family, you never slack on us! You have always been there for your boys and you are a great role model for them. I love watching you play with our boys, even when you get whacked in the shin with a hockey puck or when you have to tell Wes for the 20th time to turn the Sorry card over.



Thank you for being a great dad and a great husband. This is one of my favorite quotes and sums up how I feel about my husband as a dad. And, a great dad he is!

"The most important thing a father can do for his children is to love their mother."

Henry Ward Beecher

Disney Magic!

Our family had a great time at Disney. The boys really enjoyed themselves and I was glad we were able to work this trip out during Chris' Orlando conference. We left on Saturday and got in late that evening. All of our flights, coming and going, were on time and had no issues. Nice job Airtran!

Sunday we picked up our PT Cruiser rental car and then headed to Disney. I thought Wes was going to wet himself in his excitement over the car. As you can see, he thought it was very cool.



We took the Monorail to Magic Kingdom from The Contemporary Hotel. It was a bit of a wait and we had issues getting back..we took the wrong Monorail...so watch those lines if you use them! The boys really enjoyed riding the Monorail. I believe they thought it was a Disney ride!

The boys did fantastic while at Disney. They handled the heat very well. Connor just walked and walked and never once complained about how tired and hot he must have been. I saw kids twice his age being pushed around in strollers. We got into the park around 10:00 and left a little after 5:00. I congratulate Disney on finding ways to help keep the kids cool with outside misters and water areas. Plus, many of their rides are inside and very well air conditioned.

Wes had his top five list of attractions, with his favorite being The Indy Speedway. His other favorites included The Railroad, The Magic Carpets of Aladdin, Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor and the Jungle Cruise. He had numerous great comments about people and places....but I loved it when, on our late drive to the hotel he said, "I smell exhausted"...translation, I smell exhaust. I on the other hand, did actually smell exhausted!





Connor's top five attractions included, the Astro Orbiter, Tomorrowland Transit Authority, Cinderella's Golden Carrousel, The Railroad and The Magic Carpets of Aladdin. His top saying of the week involved Epcot. We could see the big "ball" from our room and Connor stuck with naming it "Fcot". He also decided palm trees should be called pine palm trees.





Neither of the boys, especially Wes, were into the big rides. Most everything we went on did not have a very long wait. The famous, Dumbo and Tea Cup rides had huge waits. I just couldn't justify that for our boys. A lot of the rides had the Fast Pass System, but we didn't have to wait in a long line anyway, so we didn't use Fast Pass. The longest we waited was for "it's a small world" which was about a half hour. And, well worth it...I loved that ride. I very much remember going on that ride with my Grandparent's who took me when I was ten. I also enjoyed going back to the Swiss Family Treehouse, Walt Disney's Carousel of Progress and Snow White's Scary Adventures. Disney has obviously added some new attractions in the past 20 years. I would highly recommend Mickey's PhilharMagic 3-D Spectacular. It was great with very cool effects. I also enjoyed the Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor. Nice air conditioning in both, I might add!

We only spent a day at the Magic Kingdom, so obviously we couldn't do it all. We didn't get to walk through the Castle because a show was going on out front. We also didn't get to see/meet very many characters. The boys really weren't into that, even though I had made them autograph books. We did get to meet Buzz Lightyear. He rocked. Connor hide behind Chris. We also saw Woody and his girl friend...can't remember her name. We did get to see all the characters during the afternoon parade.





The conference Chris was attending was at the Orlando World Marriott Center, and we stayed there. It was a gorgeous resort and the largest Marriott in the world. After our day at Disney we hung out at the resort for our remaining days. The resort had different children's activities throughout the day and we took advantage of those. Afternoons were spent by the pools. We had lots of fun and I managed to keep the boys occupied! Plus, we requested a room facing Disney so that we could watch the fireworks at night. We were on the 18th floor and had a great view for both Epcot and Magic Kingdom's fireworks.









This was a great trip for all of us. Chris obviously had to work and was stuck inside all day, but the boys and I had a great time. I am very happy that we made it to Magic Kingdom and the boys had that fun experience.

Hey, Hey, Hockeytown!

Way to go Red Wings!

Another great game, right down to the final 3 seconds. I'm pretty sure I was holding my breath the last minute of that game. Wow!

I'm totally thrilled that they won it last night. Mostly because I didn't want to be flying to Orlando on Saturday evening and not get to watch game 7! Silly me!

Michigan fun

The boys and I had a great weekend in Michigan. Since Chris was in Chicago and we didn't need to be back for him to go to work on Monday or for school, we decided to stay till today (Mon). It made for a fun weekend because we didn't have to leave early on Sunday.

Thanks to Hometown Days in Swartz Creek, it was like we had our own personal entertainment. After a cookout at my dad's Church on Friday we went to a great fireworks show. Then Saturday we had curbside seats for the parade...which was basically a sugar parade. I've never seen so much candy thrown out during a parade. It got to the point that I was motioning for the people to not throw candy at us. I would wager that they had as much, if not more, candy than they looted at Halloween. Saturday afternoon was pretty much spent watching the boys bounce off anything and everything. But, they had fun. We also went to a car show and had a fire in mom's fire pit.

So, it was a busy, fun and tiring weekend. It was nice to spend one on one time with each of my parents. It never seems that I get to do that and it was worth it! I also got my Father's Day shopping done and some last minute stuff taken care of before we leave for Orlando.

I got to watch the Red Wing's game with my dad. That was just like old times. With any luck the Wings will wrap up the series tonight and hoist Lord Stanley's Cup. I'm treating myself to a beer tonight!

Heading..

...out of town to Flint within the hour. The boys are really looking forward to this weekend. I plan on enjoying the weekend and I know Chris is having a good time with his buddies in Chicago. Good stories should follow.

Great weekend

Our family had a great weekend together. Friday night was deck night. We had a fire in the chimnea, snacks for the boys and drinks for the adults. Then Saturday night we got invited next door to Tami's house for basically the same thing. The Wings were also able to win game one on Saturday night. Go Wings!

Our friends, Kim and Ryan, were able to stop by on Sunday night for dinner. Chris pulled out all the stops and did a great smoke. The pulled pork was so good. We also made homemade potato salad and chocolate cake. It was ALL good. The best part was sitting outside on the deck with another fire and enjoying good company with our friends.

Monday we took it easy! Oh, and the Wings won again.

All in all it was a great weekend. The next two weekends hold more of the same. I plan on taking the boys to Flint this weekend. Chris is going to Chicago for four days for his annual "guys weekend". His football buddies have started meeting up once a year for the "guys weekend". Which, I think is great because he doesn't get to do enough stuff like that!

My parents have lots of fun stuff planned for the boys. I believe we are going to a cookout on Friday night followed by fireworks. Saturday should be a local parade and car show. Throw in many trips to the barn, golf cart rides, tractor rides and the boys will be in heaven!

Disney is less than two weeks away. We are all getting excited for that.

Memorial Day

I would like to thank the families of all brave soldiers who have given the ultimate sacrifice, their lives, to protect our country and our freedom.

If you are a veteran, or a current military family, my family would also like to say thank you for all that you have done to keep our country safe and give us the freedoms that we are enjoying today.

As I watch my boys running around happy in our back yard I do not take lightly the fact that they are safe and we are free to make our own choices.

Thank you and Happy Memorial Day

"You have weird hair"

"You have weird hair"

This is what Connor, in his most polite voice, told the window inspector who visited our home today. (At least Connor didn't tell him he looked like a girl - because I know that is what Wes was thinking)

The friendly, early 30's, young dad type was cool about it and said it was no biggie. I on the other hand, was mortified and wanted to crawl under the couch and join the multitude of matchbox cars already in hiding.

The gentleman simply had naturally curly hair. It wasn't your crazy white-boy-playing-college-basketball-at-Stanford hair...just curly hair.

In my most stern voice, (because I was trying not to laugh and so was the window inspector) I informed Connor that not everyone in the world looks the same and we all have different colored hair that isn't necessarily straight!

As if that wasn't embarrassing enough, the window inspector got whacked in the shin by a flying puck while we were in the basement checking the windows. While Yzerman and Chelios thought they were the bomb and were attempting to show off, a stray puck hit the poor guy in the shin. He took it nicely, considering he had shorts on and I know it hurts like hell!

I'm sure he was a happy man to leave our house! He probably is also grateful to be the inspector and not the installer!

Cavities suck!

It has been roughly twenty years since I have had to have a cavity filled. When I was a kid I swear I had a cavity every time I went to see the dentist. Then, like magic, I just stopped getting cavities.

Well, imagine my surprise a couple of weeks ago when my flirtatiously cool dentist told me I had a cavity. I actually thought he was joking. Fast forward to last night, and after the third round of numbing shots, he was definitely not joking.

After the first series of shots I couldn't feel the right side of my head. This included my forehead, temple, ear, nose and eye. All cool if you have been drinking too much, but not the general area in which the dentist will be drilling with his loud, large drill. Second round of shots proved to get closer to the general area. My jaw, cheek and some small areas of the inside of my mouth were numb, but still no where near drilling numbness.

Finally, after round three my lower right teeth, most of my tongue and most of my lower lip was numb. So numb that I sat in the chair drooling on myself while the cavity was filled. So numb that the nurse laughed that I couldn't move my tongue at all and so numb that I sounded like I'd gone three rounds with a bottle of tequila and swallowed the worm.

You can imagine the joy upon my arrival home to find my dear, loving husband, Chris, made fun of me for pretty much the remainder of the night. By the time we went to bed, around 10:30, I had gotten feeling back to most of my face/head and my lip and tongue were thawing out.

Today my mouth hurts. Not the tooth where he filled the cavity, but the back of my mouth at the jaw where he gave me all those shots. Nice. Note to self. Brush more often, floss every day, eat less sweets and pray for no more cavities! Because, cavities suck!

Plan Scape

The landscaping is nearly complete. It's fantastic. The actually landscaping is done, but they need to come back next week and try and level off a part of our yard that always holds water. We had the both sides and the back of the house to complete. The front was already done. In addition to the three sides of the house they also added a large pine tree, 2 large red maples and another tree (not to up on my trees).

Plan Scape, did a fantastic job. I am way to picky about stuff and I couldn't find a single thing to pick about! From the way their crew put up with the boys watching them out every possible window to how nicely they cleaned up....they were fantastic! Thank you Phil for a job well done!

Now the pictures. It was at sunset last night and they light is pretty bright, but the general idea comes across. It's raining now, so getting better pictures isn't going to happen today.

So excited!

Our landscaping is almost finished!

Will post pictures soon!

So excited!

Definition of accident

"event occurring by chance or unintentionally"

Wes just cut most of the front of Connor's hair off.

Apparently it was an accident.

I just got done defining what an accident is to Wes.

One does not take out his "pre-school scissors", get Connor to sit and hold still, find the "right" spot and then cut off said younger brother's hair... accidentally.

12:23 a.m.

12:23 a.m.

That is roughly the exact time that the Komets finally won game 7 of the Turner Cup playoffs. We were all there, physically more than mentally, for the end of the game. Connor was asleep in his chair and Wes had finally stopped crying about wanting to go home and go to bed.

It took 3 over time periods for the Komet's to pull it off, but they actually did win. What a long night and an even longer day. I volunteered to go to the zoo for the day with Wes' kindergarten class. That in itself wore me out, but add working out, a swim lesson for Wes and I was done. More like burnt, like toast!

If the Komet's hadn't blown a one point lead with less than one minute in the game, we all could have been home by 11:30...but that would have been too easy. I guess I have until November to recover from last night. It might just take that long before Wes wants to go back!

I was glad we stayed through the overtimes because we got to see them win and enjoy their cool trophy. I admit, I would have been really pissed if we had stayed for 3 overtimes and they would have lost, but that wasn't the case. Chris was pretty happy that wasn't the case either. He knew I would have rather gone home after one overtime, but I stuck it out for him. Now I have to pay further for it today with 2 very, very grumpy boys. I literally had to drag Wes out of bed this morning...and he was NASTY!

The funny thing was that while we were eating dinner Chris suggested driving separately to the game. I couldn't figure out why. We go to games all the time and never drive separately. I usually won't let Wes go to a game on a school night, but I made an exception last night. I never gave Chris' idea much thought because I guess I just didn't grasp how long the game could possibly take, or that we could have possibly still been there at 12:30 in the morning. Good idea Chris, sorry I did listen.

Way to go Komet's and congrats to a great season.

Happy Mother's Day

Happy Mother's Day to all the moms out there. For some of us this is a day of relaxation, eating a special breakfast, opening cards and gifts or a special dinner. It is a happy day for my family and at the end of the day I always feel appreciated. However, I know there are many, many moms out there celebrating their Mother's Day in different ways.

For those moms who have precious little ones who are sick in hospitals, big children who are possibly spending the day in harms way while serving in the military or for the moms who have suffered the loss of their child...I wish you a day filled with warmth, love and appreciation for your sacrifices as a mom. You may not be getting presents and hugs from your child today, but please know there are many of us moms who are thinking of you and sharing our thoughts with you!

Happy Mother's Day to my mom, my Grandma and all my "girl friend" moms! I'll have some photos of my weekend and a good wrap up later on!

Mother's Day Tea Party

Today I was honored to attend a Mother's Day Tea Party hosted by Wes' Kindergarten class. It was so nice. They decorated each of the tables with flowers, decorated cups and treated us to cookies they decorated. Wes was very proud of the cookie he made for me...and I was happy to eat it. I couldn't say no now, could I? After looking at the size of my butt in that kiddie chair, it's a darn good thing I only ate one cookie. Maybe it was no coincidence that it was a pig cookie??? I was the pink pig, in case you couldn't tell.



We were also treated to a class cookbook with each of his classmates favorite recipes. The cutest part of that is on the bottom of each recipe was the students own version of how to make it. Funny stuff.

The highlight was the performance of three "mom" songs. Wes does not much care for singing along with a group and you could tell. But he put some effort into it and I had to laugh at the pained expression on his face. It was like Chris standing there looking back at me with a pained "I don't care which shirt Honey, they both look nice on you!" expression.

The moms also got to take home a hand painted tile and our cookbooks. This is another chance to express my gratitude to Mrs. Eckman and the amazing opportunities she gives her students. All of the children were so happy to have us there and proud to show off what they had done for us. Thank you Mrs. Eckman for taking the time to pull all of that together.

And thank you Wes for being such a loving son! He was all hugs today!

No money for you...

http://collegefootball.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=805049

I was surprised to see Purdue listed in this article. There are certainly others that come to mind ahead of Purdue in the failing to meet academic standards. Could it be a sign of more trouble for the Purdue Basketball team? I'm a firm believer in academics first, sports second.

Study up boys, or no money for you!

I Voted!

I know what you are thinking, "So what, she voted?" This is the first time I've ever voted in Indiana and I've only voted a couple of times prior to that while living in Michigan. So, it's a big deal to me to say that "I voted". I feel good about having gone out to vote! And, I also feel more invested in the outcome of our primary today and who our Democratic party will eventually nominate.



I wanted one of the little stickers that proudly proclaims that I voted, but I was told when I asked that they didn't have them. Darn. That would have made it even better. I pretended it was for Connor when I asked, but I would have worn it proudly.

Now everyone is thinking that I am an degenerate citizen of this great country for not having voted in years, but I can explain that. Mostly I haven't had a candidate who I felt deserved my vote or one whom I detested enough just to go vote against. I do detest our current president and can say that I didn't vote for him or against him. But at the time I had no interest in dragging along a newborn and 3 year old to vote, no matter how much I disliked him at the time of the last election.

While voting today was very simple, I've feared in the past it wouldn't be. My voting experiences prior to today included hour waits in line, equipment that I didn't know how to use and no one willing to explain what to do. Today was so simple. I didn't have to stand in line, a nice volunteer walked me to the voting computer and explained what to do with it and then I voted. The whole thing was a no brainer and I was out the door in less than 10 minutes.

Connor even said to me..."Mom that was quick!"

Now I guess we just wait and watch as the Democratic party devours its own. It isn't going to be pretty folks!

Happy Cinco De Mayo!

I plan on celebrating Cinco De Mayo with a little margarita action after the boys are in bed. It's the least I can do to show my enthusiasm for the month of May!

We had a great weekend spent mostly outdoors. The weather here was okay on Saturday and gorgeous on Sunday. On Saturday we took the boys to Solfest at Fox Island, an Allen County Park. It's more like a nature preserve, but run by the county. The reason we decided to go was because our friend Mike, Heather's husband, was singing. There were a ton of musicians lined up for the weekend, but we were just interested in him. The boys attempted to sit and listened with us (good thing he only played for a half hour) and then we walked around the park. It was fun. Wes wanted to catch tad-poles that we watched in a big puddle. Of course he wanted to catch them with a stick..and we had nothing to put them in...to Chris' delight!

After completing our required yard duties on Sunday we spent the afternoon relaxing outside. It was a beautiful day. Chris used his smoker to make a meatloaf for dinner. Good stuff. He is becoming rather skilled in the smoking department. I'm still anxiously awaiting my smoked Salmon! Maybe for Mother's Day?

Wes also got a little golf action in. He needs lots of help! Hopefully he will take after his daddy in the golf department. I am hopelessly lost at that game. Connor had to join in the fun too. I think Connor's clubs are way easier to use!

Last day, last place

Today was our last day of bowling...sniff, sniff. Normally I'm ready for our season to be done. We always bowl following the school year schedule but end a few weeks before school gets out.

I wasn't ready for bowling to be done. Knowing that I will no longer get to bowl with Tami made it sad for me. Even sadder to me was that it was the last time Connor gets to go to "bowling school" with Tami's daughter, Zoe. They are such good buddies. According to Zoe, Connor and her will be getting married some day. The kids get to go to an awesome babysitter at the bowling alley while we bowl. Somehow they started calling it "bowling school". The "Grandma" who babysits them is in her 80's. Today was her last day as well. Lots of suppressed tears when we all said our farewells today!

And, drum roll please....we finished....wait for it....in....LAST PLACE! Wow, I guess I don't need to further explain that we do indeed play for fun. Obviously, we suck! But we had lots of fun staying in last place.

What?

The significance of what I'm about to post about may seem lost to most readers, so see the post entitled, "Dog Gone" from March for enlightenment.

My in-laws called to confirm that it was okay for them to bring "the dog" over later in May to stay at our house while they are out of town. "What?" Excuse me, did I just here you correctly? Seriously, after a long pause on the phone the first words out of my mouth were, "What?"

I can't believe they would even consider asking us that question. We tried to politely explain the badness of what had happened during her not-so-long-ago two week stay, but were they listening? Clearly they were not listening or they never, ever would have asked us/me to watch "the dog" ever again.

I can best relate this to a babysitter we had at our house on only one occasion. She was young, hyper and even before we left the house, had the boys running around like little monsters. I knew when we returned later that night when the boys were still up, and still running around like monsters, that "things" had not gone well. From what the babysitter said to us and the look of terror on her face prior to leaving, I knew I would never be able to ask her to babysit again. And, I have never asked or will consider asking her.

It's like that folks! But, instead of our experience lasting only one evening, like it did for the babysitter, our experience lasted for two frickin weeks. And they asked us again. What?

The worst part was his dad, who needs to start using his hearing aides again, clearly misunderstood something Chris said. I was told on the phone that Chris had said it was okay for her to stay here. Smartly, dad-in-law decided to check with me first. That was when he got the "What?" on the phone and "Chris never mentioned it to me."

Clearly, "the dog" is not staying here! I feel really bad saying no. Especially considering how many times they help us out with the boys....but really, shit on my carpet, pee on my carpet, vomit on my carpet, nearly biting my friends daughter in the face and just not liking her are all really substantial enough reasons to say no dog. And, I feel bad for Chris because he has to tell them no. I know he wishes that we had never agreed to watch her in the first place but the reason we did is that we thought two weeks in a kennel was a bit much, even for "the dog". So now our origional attempt at a good deed has gone to the dogs and it biting us in the ass.

Weekend

Our weekend was busy. The boys went with Chris to Monroeville for a car show on Saturday. While they were gone I helped Tami paint her garage. I'm not a fan of painting, but I took pity on her because they are trying so hard to get their house on the market by the end of the week. The garage looked good after a coat of white paint and I had fun helping her! The boys got a big kick out of the car show and Chris seemed to enjoy taking pictures of "Whiskey Tango" and people trapped in the 80's. He is going to get himself in trouble with his new camera! I'll just laugh when he does!

While the boys were in M-town with the grandparents, they decided to spend the night. That meant Chris and I went out to our favorite Mexican hang out for dinner. It also meant the I broke most all of my recent food rules and consumed a large amount of margaritas with chips and salsa. What could I do? We had a pitcher! It was a fun evening! Plus, I worked out both days this weekend, so I earned it.

Sunday was spent in our own garage cleaning out the mess that winter brings. We got stuff hauled outside, things stored in the attic and a good sweeping of the floor. It is nice to actually be able to see the second half of the garage floor.

So, it was just an average weekend. I felt like all I did all weekend was work, but oh well.

I'm stoked about having the second half of our landscaping done this week. I talked to our landscaper this morning and it sounds like he will be here at the end of the week to do the job! I'll have pictures of that, for sure!

"E-I-E-I- Oops!"

Congratulations Wes and the kindergarten classes at Covington Elementary for a great musical show. Our family and many others, were treated to the kindergarten musical last night. G & G came along to watch Wes' on stage singing and one-liner debut.

They obviously had a barnyard theme and all the children made hats/masks to help them represent their appropriate animal. Wes' class were pigs, with girl pigs being in pink and boy pigs in tan. Wes also got to go up to the mic and recite a line he learned. His line was "My name is Old McDonald. I'm a farmer, can't you tell?" Well, no, actually! A lot of the lines were pointless because the children did not wear costumes. Oh well!

Wes was nervous all day about the show, but you wouldn't have known it while watching him on stage. He waved to us many times and was next to his best friend, Ayana, the whole time. I got a couple of tears at one point when I was watching the two of them next to each other on stage. I'm so sad for him that his friend will be moving away. I need to tell him today or this weekend. The for sale sign should be going up at their house and I want him to hear it from me and try and explain it all to him.



Wes did a great job, as did all the children. I was impressed by the fact that the teachers were able to pull this off considering the morning classes never practiced with the afternoon classes, and vice versa. If it had been just singing, it would have been easy, but many of the children had lines to come up to the microphone and recite! Thus, making it very challenging for the children and teachers.

A huge thank you to Wes' teacher, Mrs. Eckman, the remaining kindergarten teachers, the music teachers, art teachers, other staff and volunteers that made last night possible. It was apparent that they all put a lot of time into this show. Also apparent was the amount of effort the students put into learning their music and lines.


(Wes and Mrs. Eckman)

Great job everyone!

I'm sad

Life has been going good lately. For the most part, the boys have been behaving themselves. Now that the weather has turned and they can get outside every day to play. A week ago they decided to get "artistic" with a pair of scissors and cut holes in their pants....that was definitely bad. But, since then, all has been well.

I have been working out nearly every day. I made up my mind that I have about ten to twelve pounds to loose and some major toning up to do. The trip to Orlando is a great kick in the butt for me. It is motivation to tone up for a new swim suit.

I need a new swim suit that is appropriate to wear in public with the boys. I've got a great, tiny bikini that I like to wear when I'm alone. For Orlando that suit would not be appropriate, nor would it be appropriate with the condition my body is currently in. SO, I've started SLOWLY loosing weight but mostly I've been reshaping my body. It is cool to start to see a difference and is all the motivation I need to keep working out every day! Chris scored huge brownie points for pointing out that he could tell a differnce.

But, why am I sad (see title of post)? One of my best friends, who happens to be my neighbor, just broke the news to me this morning that they are moving to Indy. Damn! We do everything together. Our children are weeks apart in ages and play together all the time. We babysit for each other, we bowl together, we carpool together, we signed up for pre-school together....get the idea. This is so sad for me.

Having Tami as a friend has gotten me out of my shell. Before we became friends I didn't really know anyone in our subdivision. I have other friends around town, but none that I see every day and do everything with. None that I could drop my boys off in the event of an emergency. Well, I shouldn't say that. All my friends would take my boys in an emergency, it's just they all live a half hour away!

Knowing that she is moving away is devastating. I can't imagine how upset the boys are going to be when they find out both of their best friends are moving away. I'm not even going to tell them for a while. I know it will be a while before it happens, they haven't even put their house on the market yet...but knowing it is coming is heartbreaking.

I feel like my life has been put on hold. Will I have someone or find someone to bowl with me next fall? Will I be able to get Connor to pre-school on time with out having carpool help while Wes waits for the bus? Will I be able to volunteer at school next year? (We took turns watching each others kids so that we could volunteer at school) Will the boys make new friends that they and I are comfortable enough for them to go over and play?

I'm sad.

Did you feel that?

I woke up at 5:30 this morning to the bed shaking. I thought maybe Chris was having a bad dream and I woke him up. We couldn't figure out what was happening! Our bed was shaking along with everything in the bedroom. The tv set was rattling in the large cabinet and I felt the room shaking. I got out of bed to investigate and was had no idea what was going on. I actually opened the cabinet door and tried to hold the tv still, to no luck. It probably lasted about 20 - 30 seconds!

That my friends, was my first earthquake. I never really got back to sleep and then heard on the radio when the alarm went off that we had an earthquake. We had an earthquake in Northeast Indiana?

It made me feel better once I realized what that was. I thought I was going crazy. I kept saying to Chris, "Did you feel that?" At least I'm not crazy.

Arrgh!

The weather is beautiful, life is hectic and the boys have been naughty. It seems they have managed to come up with nothing but head shaking trouble the last few days. And by head shaking I mean..."Why on earth did they do that?" Wes has been mouthy. Which, isn't completely uncommon! But, they have been doing naughty things.

Take today as an example. While I was working on laundry and picking up around the house they took their own pair of children's scissors and cut a quarter size hole in each of their respective pair of pants. While they were at it they also cut a small hole in the armchair cover for our lazy boy chair! What? I was even paying attention, not that I don't usually pay attention, but it seems like they usually do bad stuff when I get a call on the phone or I'm working on the computer. And by bad stuff I mean getting ice cream or cool whip out of the freezer and sneaking it into the family room.

I was furious. I tried the old approach of telling them that they could explain what they did to their daddy and why they did it, when he comes home from work. And, they could think about what their punishment should be. I was hoping they would fret all afternoon about it, but they clearly do not care. No fretting is happening.

I was getting ready to leave for the Y to work out when I discovered the cut clothes. I was so upset that I wore the wrong tennis shoes to work out, so I couldn't jog. More anger toward them...

They wanted to play at the big park by the Y but I refused. I felt torn by that because I had planned on letting them play there and it is a beautiful day outside, but I told them no as part of their punishment for what they did at home.

Why does parenting have to be so difficult?

A Disney Surprise

I'm shocked tonight at what has turned out to be a surprise family vacation. Last weekend Chris mentioned that he was going to have to go to Orlando in early June for a 3 day conference. He would be leaving on a Sunday and returning on a Thursday. I thought, "okay, good to have on the calendar"! I always appreciate him letting me know stuff in advance.

I realized he was actually hinting at my joining him to take advantage of the free hotel. Normally I would be all over that, however I did not wish to leave the boys behind. I suggested that if we were that close to Disney maybe we could find a way to make it a family vacation. I knew he would have to be in meetings during the day, but I figured I could entertain the boys. They love staying at hotels! Plus, this might be the cheapest way we could afford to do Disney! And, Chris gets to save his vacation time for later on in the summer.

As it turns out (this has taken all week to unfold) we are all going as a family. Yeah! We have the cost of our airfare, meals for the boys and I and Disney tickets. We are going down on Saturday and then we will have Sunday to ourselves to do Disney. While I'm aware that one day at Disney isn't much....it's better than nothing and will give our boys a taste of Disney. They have never gone.

Here is the best part. Our hotel stay was confirmed today. The Marriott in Orlando, where we will be staying, is the largest Marriott in the world. What? How did we manage to fall into that? The Orlando World Center Marriott Resort & Convention Center is beyond gorgeous. Plus, it's only 2 miles from Disney. I'm thinking that the boys and I can find a way to entertain ourselves with the 6 pools, water slides, sandboxes and other amenities that will be available to us while Chris is working his conference. I'm now feeling a little sad for Chris.

I can't wait to surprise the boys with this trip. I've tried to keep it quiet and we are going to wait a while and tell them. But, I'm so excited to see the look on their faces when we tell them they get to go to Disney. I'm so appreciative that Chris was able to work this out for all of us. It means so much to me to get to take the boys to Disney, plus have some fun in Orlando.

Spring Break!

We had a busy weekend. In between watching basketball on tv we managed to go to a Komet's home game. That was fun and probably the last regular season game for us. They have extended their home winning streak to something like 25 games. Good for them. Play offs start soon.

My parents came down to visit for a few hours on Sunday. It is a long drive for just a few hours, but that is all they ever seem to do. Mom mentioned maybe next time they come they would stay Saturday night and go home Sunday. Wow, what a concept! Of course, that means someone else, besides her, would have to take care of the horses!

Today marks the start of Spring Break for Wes. I've been trying to plan out the week but a few key things haven't fallen into place yet. My Dad, who works for GM, might be laid off this week. If that happens we will try and plan a visit with him. If that doesn't work out then we need to plan something to do each day so that the boys (and I) do not go stir crazy! I've got ideas for each day but I hate to say yes to our friends and then cancel if we can make plans with my dad.

Anyway...we went to the "big" library today and it was a zoo. I guess everyone was thinking the way I was and it was full of kids....and loud! It should be a bit warmer this week but it's rainy today. Not much of a play outside day. Darn weather doesn't seem to know it's Spring Break!

Dog gone

My family will never own a dog. For the past two weeks our family (mostly me) watched my in-laws dog while they were gone to Phoenix to visit their other son, Stu. We offered the option of "the dog" staying at our house because they were going to kennel her for two weeks. While I'm not a big fan of their Aussie, I felt two weeks of kenneling was extreme.

So, Chris and I talked it over and we made the offer to keep "the dog" and they accepted. I had a system worked out so that she could go out in the backyard on a long rope. Even though our back yard is fenced, she could easily have gone under or over our fence!

The past two weeks have been difficult, to say the least. "The dog" was stressed out here and despite being outside A LOT continued to make messes on our carpet. Which, pissed me off. She is not kept in a crate, so just putting her up was not an option. My family is strong believers in being able to crate a dog and our dogs have always been able to do that. So, toward the end of her stay she was either outside, in our laundry room (where she conveniently never made a mess because she would have had to stay in it) or sleeping at night in our room.

I was soooooooooo damn happy when the in-laws returned and retrieved their dog. We will never, ever own a dog and I firmly believe that after our cat goes to kitty heaven we will no longer own any pets. The cat was my mistake before we owned our home. But, I do not like having animals in my home and we never will again!!!!

Seven things you might not know about me...

So, I didn't some up with this idea, I'm stealing it from another blogger. I rather liked the idea and thought it would be a fun change of pace.

1. I wore white Keds (tennis shoes) on my wedding day. No, I'm not a fitness junkie and I really do love cute, wedding shoes...but less than 5 months before our wedding day I had a second ankle surgery to fuse my right ankle. I spent the months leading up to our wedding in physical therapy hoping that I would be able to walk down the aisle minus a cast and without limping. Function beat out fashion for my wedding day. I did decorate them and they looked very wedding like!

2. I have no siblings. It's just me. When I was little and if someone asked me if I had siblings I would say "No, I'm a lonely child". Along those lines, I come from a very small family and I am the only grandchild on my mom's side. My boys will sadly never have first cousins and I will never be an aunt and Chris will never be an uncle. I think my parents did a pretty good job of making sure I wasn't spoiled, but I will admit that I got to do a lot of stuff with my grandparents that most kids do not get to experience. We traveled all over the place on their boat and I always spent time with them in Florida. This is another reason way I am so close to my Grandma and my Grandpa, who has passed.

3. I have a very bad habit of picking at my lips. I have always had a fixation with picking at things. I started out sucking my thumb and did that into elementary school. After braces for my teeth began, I moved on from thumb sucking to picking at my thumb. I don't really remember at what point I stopped doing that, but I have a very bad habit of picking my lips instead! Sadly, Connor constantly picks at his finger nails. Sorry buddy. That neurotic tendency definitely came from me!

4. I love sports. Not playing them, mind you, but watching and being a fan. My favorites would be college football, college basketball, professional hockey and then professional football. I despise professional basketball (I really think most of the players are just hoodlums!) and I don't care for baseball - too boring! One of my favorite times of the year is coming up with March Madness. For the past two years I have come so close to winning the pool I have been in, but no cigar. Maybe this will be my year!

5. I really like curling. Back home, in Michigan, we could get Canadian channels that had curling on all the time. I would sit and watch it for hours and everyone in my family, including my husband, thinks I'm nuts. It also doesn't make much sense that I like it, considering I think baseball is boring...but I also respect curling because last I'd heard there were never any curling/steroid scandals! I would love to try it some day. Unfortunately, I do not think there are any curling places around here. I guess I will have to stick with bowling.

6. I nearly died from childbirth with our second son. I was untreated for a type of preeclampsia called H.E.L.P Syndrome. A nasty little problem that nearly cost me my life. Connor was delivered via emergency c-section under general anesthesia. Chris wasn't even allowed in the operating room. I was so upset about him not being present for the birth of our second son. I guess under the circumstances I could see why he wasn't allowed in the room, but it still upsets me that he wasn't able to be there for Connor. I probably had H.E.L.P Syndrome with my first pregnancy but the symptoms were not as pronounced. Probably a good thing for Connor that it wasn't as bad with Wes, otherwise Connor might not be here. No more children for our family!

7. My family has horses and I used to be a riding instructor. I graduated from the the University of Finlday with an Associates Degree in English Equestrian Studies. I rode hunter/jumpers and competed at horse shows in Michigan. I loved jumping and so did my Thoroughbred mare. I went on to get my Bachelors Degree from the University of Michigan - Flint in a "real" degree, but all the while I was teaching lessons and had roughly 30 students most of the time. I enjoyed it, but with marriage and a family horses have become a part of my past. Some day when we can afford it, and my boys have grown up considerably, I will return to horses and get back in the saddle.

So there you have it. Seven things you didn't know about me. That was fun and I would encourage you to do it!

Godspeed, Reece

It is with so much sadness today that Chris and I realize our friends are spending their last moments with Reece. There was nothing else for doctors to do for her little heart. Her family will be saying goodbye to her today and she will be removed from the machines...her body free.

To anyone who may be reading this today, please say a prayer for a peaceful passing for Reece, for strength for her parents and for the rest of her family. While they will miss her dearly they have said that God created her, protected her and will now take her to be with him.

Godspeed Reece and fly high sweet angel.

This weekend

It has been a good family weekend. Chris was out of town on business for the later part of the week. The boys were excited to have him back when they got up Saturday morning. I'm reminded when Chris is gone of how much I need him at home and how much I miss him. We all went to the Komet's game last night and they beat Flint. Today we are just taking it easy. Hopefully Illinois can beat Wisconsin today in the Ben Ten Tounrey. Much sadness was around after Purdue lost.

On to the sad news of the weekend. We are being told by Reece's family that it isn't likely she is going to survive past this weekend. After the surgery they did last week doctors were just yesterday able to get her bleeding under control. They don't know why she is bleeding and they have nearly run out of options. Chris and I do not know the agony of what Evan and Lisa are going through and the decisions they will have to make today, but we do know the agony of having to watch dear friends bury their children. It is the worst thing anyone should have to endure and we are struggling to understand why horrible things like this have to happen to young children.

Hug your children, love your families and enjoy the reminder of this weekend.

Good news

I was so relieved to read a good update for Reece late today. I felt like I was holding my breath all day wondering how she was doing in surgery. That pales to compare to the anxiety, stress and fear her parents felt today. Hopefully in the coming days she will continue to improve and be taken off the ECMO machine. Keep fighting little one!

Open Hearts

My mind today is focused on the frality of life and our amazing hearts. While I'm typing this a friend of Chris' (through work), 2 year old daughter, Reece is back in open heart surgery at Riley fighting for her life. Surgons are trying to undo an earlier heart surgery from last week that failed. She has been on an ECMO machine keeping her alive until today. That's like being on a heart bypass machine for a week. Not good, especially for a 2 year old.

My thoughts and prayers right now are with Reece, her Mommy and Daddy, twin sister and brother. Hopefully Reece will continue to be the fighter that she has proven to be and pulls through her surgery today with a healed heart. May God be with the surgons and all her family today!

Flying Solo

To coin a phrase that Chris used in his blog today, I'm flying solo. I'm actually in Cape Coral, Florida, right now! Amazing to me that I went from 10 degree weather to 77 degree weather. I won't lie...it's wonderful!

It has been so odd and yet enjoyable to be solo. I miss Chris and the boys, and I do wish that they had been able to make this trip, but this solo thing is an unusual feeling. I woke up last night looking for the doorway to check and see if the lights were out and the boys were still in bed. I've even looked for the boys to see what they were up to a couple of times and it is quiet here....just a strange feeling. I have to keep checking in on my boys and bugging Chris! Kudos to him for dealing with school today and even the delay that mother nature threw at him this morning. Thank you Tami for calling to remind Chris of the delay!

Chris probably thinks I don't trust him or that I don't think he is capable. If I thought that for even a second, I wouldn't be here. He is the greatest dad and is enjoying our boys this weekend. As I type this they are actaully at a hockey game. Good for them!

I'm headed out with my grandma in a bit for drinks. We went shopping today (I didn't buy anything), out to lunch (complete with ice cream!) and then I spent the rest of the afternoon by the pool. It was just perfect weather today. It has been a bit cool in the evening, but still perfect weather. I had the biggest laugh this morning while I was on a walk with Mouse. It was cool down here yesterday and chilly this morning. Nothing that a pair of capris and a sweat shirt for me wouldn't take care of...but the locals were cold. While on our walk we stopped for coffee at Mouse's local coffee place. All her buddies were bundled up in winter coats, with hats and gloves drinking their coffee. It just made me laugh. Reminds me that with everything comes perspective! Cold to them is not cold to me!

Tomorrow we are headed off to some art gallerys and more shopping. I want to find some gifts for the boys and also something for my friend Tami, who helped watch the boys for me on Thursday after I left.

Thank you everyone for helping me out and getting me to fly solo. You are the best...oh, and Chris, what picture frame did Connor throw at Wes? :)

Bummer...

It had to happen sooner or later and last night was the night. Purdue lost! Big bummer! I thought that maybe they had a chance to sneak out of Gloomington with a win, but no such luck. There were a ton of fouls called against them, but at the same time they didn't make many of their own baskets from the free throw line.

To make it worse, Chris is taking it all very hard. He has a standing bet with a buddy at work that if Purdue wins the IU fans have to fly the Purdue flag and vice versa. So, to add salt to the wound I know the offending IU flag is hanging in Chris' office today making him even more grumpy about the whole loss! It doesn't help that Purdue only plays IU once this year, rather than the usual road game and home game. There isn't much chance of us getting even for last night. I know we would have pounded them at Mackey!

Sorry Boilers. At least you have a good, honest coach who isn't a cheater! And your team is only going to get better in the next few years, while IU is on a fast track to disaster!

I'm so excited...

I'm so excited and I just can't hide it.... I'm going to Florida. After much deliberation on my part and time spent researching airfare, I've decided it is important to me to visit my Grandma (who I call Mouse) for a few days. I will be going alone because, as I've said before, going during Spring Break when we can all go will cost us both of our arms and legs!

Mouse was surprised and happy when I called to tell her I was coming. I didn't want to say anything to her in advance because I didn't want to disappoint her, but I'm glad it has all worked out. I know she loves having me there and I sure could use a couple of vacation days. So, I'll be gone next Thursday through Monday.

The worst part is leaving the boys behind. I know how badly they want to go but we just couldn't do it. None of us know how much time we have left on this earth, but I don't want to kick myself a year from now and say that something happened to my Grandma and I didn't take the chance to make that trip to see her. Family is so important to me and she has always been there for me.

Of course this trip wouldn't be possible if Chris wasn't agreeing to take some time off to watch the boys. I also have my good friend Tami who will watch the boys for a day, so thank you guys for making this possible for me!

Will you...

...be my Valentine? Happy Valentine's Day, Chris! He has been a sweetie and called to wish me a Happy Valentine's Day. We do not have plans for tonight but are going out tomorrow instead. I wanted to go to dinner and the Komet's game on Friday...so that will be our Valentine's Day out. Perfect with me!

I'm married to an incredible man! I don't need flowers, or jewelry or silly stuff to know that I'm appreciated and loved. Chris goes out of his way every day to remind me that he loves me and our boys!

Thanks for being my Valentine! I Love you, Most!

Burr...

Burrr, is it ever cold outside. Over the course of just a week we have had thunderstorms, hail, rain, ice and now snow. Talk about extreme! Mother Nature is supposed to send some snow this way. Great, maybe another school delay tomorrow which means Connor would miss swim lessons, again.

I had a fun weekend. We didn't do anything on Sunday, it was just too cold. Saturday was fun for me because I got to go out shopping and have dinner with my good friend, Heather. I needed to find some new fabric to recover our nasty kitchen chairs. I guess it was good that I found something in the exact same colors, but it was nearly the same stripe as what we already had. It was the only thing I could find in the correct colors. Plus, rather than paying the $40 a yard price for the fabric I really liked, I bought the similiar fabric for $6.49 a yard. Kinda a no brainer. Now I have to figure out how to take the chairs apart and put on the new fabric. I also have to refinish the top of the kitchen table. It has table cancer and is shedding it's white paint.

Another great bonus of the weekend, drum roll please...Purdue won! To coin a phrase from my cool husband...Another Bucky Badger Beat Down! That was a fantastic game to watch Purdue win. I'm almost starting to have faith in them. But, whenever that happens something stupid will force them to give up a game and drop in the Big Ten standings. So, I have to assume that they are going to not win their games and be excited when they do win!

I volunteered in Wes' classroom today. That is always fun and I learn so much about him and how he is doing at school. His teacher is always quick to praise how smart he is. He is too smart sometimes, if you ask me! But, even better, by being in his classroom I can gauge where he is compared to the other students. He is doing great. I am also proud of him for being the kindergarten student named Covington Character Kid of the month for Teamwork! Great job Wes!

We will be making some decisions in the next few weeks on what projects around our house will be completed or put off till later in the year. I'm so hopeful that we can find a way to do a little bit of everything. My fingers are crossed.

Till next time...and Go Boilers! Let's see if we can make a Sparty Smackdown happen!

What is that saying?

I'm pretty sure there is a saying that goes something like this.."If you don't have something nice to say, say nothing at all." I know I should stick with it but then this entry would be two sentences. Instead, I'm going to say some not so nice things about members of my family and write a really long entry, just so that I can make myself feel better :)

It has turned into one of "those" weeks for me. My cold is dragging on into its 5th day. And, while I am not feeling like I need to be parked on the couch, I am tired of feeling like I need to wipe my nose every other minute or cough up a lung. Wes seems to have turned the corner and is feeling better, but poor Connor has a nose that will not stop needing wiped!

I passed up a Girl's Night Out with my friend Heather yesterday because I just didn't feel up to it. I hope to see her Saturday evening instead.

That brings me to my crazy family. Not my kids/husband family, but my they-gave-birth-to-me-and-raised-me-so-they-feel-obligated-to-give-advise-and-suggest-what-to-do-with-my-life family. My Mom just spent her annual few days in Florida with my Grandma. Now mind you, my neurotic Mother doesn't like to fly, hates being hot and can only eat fat free boring food, so traveling isn't really her cup of tea. She goes every year to say she visited her mother in Florida during her 6 months of winter hiatus and check up on her. I actually love traveling, enjoy spending time with my Grandmother and look forward to Florida every year.

However, flying our family of 4 to Florida has become an expensive little family vacation. We have lucked out the past few years by being able to travel when we wanted to and also taking advantage of some cheap airfare. We now have a kindergartner, which means we can only travel during spring break and can only fly on weekends during the same week EVERY family in America has spring break. Here is the point. Airfare is outrageous and we can't afford to go. We have a ton of things that need taken care of around our house and since everything costs money, something has to give.

Here is where my Mother comes in. While she says that both her and my Grandmother understand why we can't go, the guilt trip upon me has become intense. We suggested renting a small SUV and driving (we can't put the mileage on our leased Buick Rendezvous) if maybe my Grandmother could help pull a Silpada party together down there. It would help me pay for the rental, gas and motels for the drive down and offset some expenses of our vacation. She doesn't want to do a party. Which puts us right back to not going.

And, drum roll here....I'm the bad guy. I'm putting money and upkeep of our home ahead of importance of spending time with my Grandma. Yeah, I feel like shit about that, but I have a family of my own, bills to pay and a nice home to maintain. I'm an adult now and I have to make decisions that put the financial well being of our family first. Of course the boys want to go, they love going down there, and I want to go to...but we can't afford $1200 in airfare! That is just ridiculous!

Now I'm the bad guy. I have always and will continue to put family first. I am the one who has always made sure my Grandma is okay without nagging her and spying on her...like my Mother does. For years I was the only one in the family who even went down to visit her and my Grandpa (while he was still with us). And, I am the only one in the family who actually wants to go camping with my crazy 79 year old Grandma when she comes back to Michigan in the Spring. I'm the only grandchild, so I do feel like I have a responsibility to her.

I already feel bad about letting my boys down and disappointing my Grandma, so I didn't need the guilt trip from my Manic-Mom! I need to let it go, move on and except the fact that we will not be traveling to Florida. But, I can't let it go...maybe I should just go by myself for a couple of days to visit her. Then I would feel guilty leaving the boys behind. How does that look to a 6 and a 3 year old? Sorry boys, I know you want to go really bad but mommy is just going to go by herself without you...oh, and while I'm gone, you just take care of yourselves while daddy is at work. Yeah, that will work! Not!

I know that no one out there is reading this, and if you are, damn I feel sorry for you...get a life and move on. But, writing it all down has helped me realize that I can't go, my immediate family comes first and the rest of my family is out of line!

Fun weekend

It's Monday, that's for sure. Sadly, the fun weekend is over and the weekly routine is back in place. We did start the week off with a 2 hour delay thanks to ice, sleet and fog. Wes will just have a shorter school day today. Oh, and I have a nasty cold.

Chris and I had a great anniversary weekend. I have always enjoyed staying at the Hyatt when we go to Indy, but thanks to some upgrades, I thought it was even nicer. Chris enjoyed the self check in and we used a $20 voucher for food in their new bar. When Purdue game time came around we were able to find ourseleves an oversized couch, big screen tv and surround sound to watch the Boliers beat IL. Thank you very much guys! That made Chris' day because he really felt there were not going to pull off a road win.

Our dinner at St. Elmo was fantastic, as it always is. They just know how to do a steak and don't hesitate to dish out a full oversized serving of mashed potatos! We also enjoyed the Indianpolis Symphony. I thought that the patrons were rather stuffy and unfriendly, but we enjoyed listening. I must say that we were probably the youngest couple in attendance and we observed some of the most untamed, wildest old man eyebrows ever seen. Wow!

I was coming down with a cold on Saturday, thanks to the two walking, sneezing, snotting boys I live with. Thankfully Saturday was just a sore throat, because Sunday really sucked and I was parked on the couch for most of the day after our return home! By last night I couldn't taste food. I was so glad that held off for 24 hours!

So, there you have our weekend in a nutshell. The boys had fun at G & G's house, we had fun in Indy and everyone is happy. I couldn't stay awake last night to watch the end of the Supper Bowl...thanks to the adult size dose of NyQuil. I really think that stuff is just 100 proof alcohol with some medicine added, just for fun. Wow, I was out last night. Not a big fan of waking up in the morning and wondering why I felt like a medicated zombie. Hopefully tonight I can get by without it!

Enjoy your Monday.

Snow day

Thanks to Mother Nature, we have a snow day at our house. We probably got about 5 or 6 inches of snow in the past 24 hours. All the schools around here were closed for the day. Which, surprises me because that's all it was, a few inches of snow. Oh well. I just finished snow blowing the drive way and side walks, while the boys enjoyed playing in the snow. We just had to make a little snow man. It's been a nice day at home without places to go and things to do!

Now, it can stop snowing! Chris and I are headed down to Indy tomorrow morning to spend the weekend. I'd rather not drive in a snow storm, so it can stop now. If I have to ride to Indy in a snow plow, I will. Nothing is going to keep me from a weekend away with my hubby!

Have a great weekend everyone!

I'm married to the Grill Master

Our anniversary was yesterday and we decided to have our favorite dinner after the boys went to bed. Our favorite dinner consists of some form of a potato and a peppercorn fillet fresh from the grill. We just recently made this for New Year's Eve without incident. Without incident means that Chris was able to use the grill on our deck, outside, in January weather.


I guess we should have checked the hourly forecast yesterday with accuweather. At the moment the boys were in bed and we were ready to warm the grill up it was storming complete with lightening, pelting rain and 30 to 40 mph wind. Poor Chris actually had to stand out in the pelting rain and hold the umbrella just right so that the grill would stay hot and cook our yummy steaks...for 15 minutes.


Now that folks, is the Grill Master. Way to go Grill Master and I salute you for sacrificing yourself so that our fillets were grilled to perfection and our anniversary meal was not lost. Grill Master also decided that we need to bring our grill into the garage next winter!

Happy Anniversary to us!

Today I am sending all my love out to my amazing husband, Chris. We are celebrating our 8 year wedding anniversary today. I have considered myself so incredibly lucky to be married to such a wonderful man. Somehow he finds a way to put up with me! :)

I truly believe fate brought us together over 12 years ago. There is honestly no other explanation as to how we met. (That's a story for a different day!) During our years together I have seen Chris become a loving and protecting husband, a devoted father and an all around great best friend to me. I never thought I could find someone to spend my life with that could make he as happy as he does!

We are celebrating quietly tonight, after the boys have gone to bed, with one of our favorite dinners at home. This weekend we are taking off to Indy to spend Saturday night at the Hyatt. I am so excited to actually have "alone time" with my husband! We have dinner reservations at St. Elmo's and tickets to the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra! Thank you to Chris for making all of the arrangements and getting his parents to watch the boys for us. His thoughtfulness is just another example of what makes him a great husband.

Happy Anniversary, Sweetie! I look forward to many, many more happy years together!

More Birthday Wishes

Happy Birthday to my cool bro-in-law, Stu! He lives in Phoenix, so I know the lucky bastard is basking in a nice sunny, warm afternoon while the rest of us freeze our asses off. I'm not bitter about that or anything :)

Anyway, Happy Birthday Stu! I hope you have a great day.

Connor and I are headed to Flint for a birthday visit with my mom and also to do a Silpada party. Normally the whole fam would join us, but I have to be there by mid afternoon on Friday and I didn't want to pull Wes out of school. Thankfully my friend and neighbor is picking Wes up from school and watching him for the afternoon. Thank you Tami!

Have a great weekend everyone. Stay warm and go Boilers. Beat the evil Cheese Badgers on Saturday. Please, pretty please...it will make Chris so happy!

Birthday wishes

Happy Birthday to my good friend Laura!

Those wishes go out to my college buddy from the University of Findlay days. We had a good laugh on the phone this morning complaining about the cold. Back when we were students we had to ride everyday, regardless of how cold it was. And let me tell you, there were mornings when we had to ride when it wasn't even 10 degrees!

We both decided we have definitely lost our "edge" for the cold. We were whining like babies today at how cold it is outside. Evidently the more birthdays you have the more you loose your temperature toughness!

Have a great day Laura!

Thanks for sharing.

I must say that I was surprised and touched to see a "thanks" posted on my site from proud pappa Nate. He keeps getting better and better news about his girls and I am just thrilled for his family. Way to go Tricia and Gwyneth! And, thank you Nate....keep up the great work you are doing as a husband and daddy.

http://cfhusband.blogspot.com/


I will also say, and this comes as a great surprise to me, my views about organ donation have greatly changed. I've never known anyone who has had to go through the difficult process of waiting and recieving an organ donation. I have always been in awe of the generosity of both the organ donor and the donors family. At a time when surviving family members must be going through great pain and loss they give the greatest gift from their loved one.


So now that I have gotten a small glimsp into the world of transplants and organ donation I want to say my views have changed. I've always wanted to give to those in need throughout my life. If it is a coat the boys have outgrown or just something in my closet I never seem to wear, I pass it along. Why wouldn't I want to continue to give to those in need after I die? Considering that I really won't be needing my organs any more, the least I could do is pass them on to someone who needs them more than I do. That would be the greatest gift I could ever give and a legacy I would be proud to pass on to my children.


So, thanks again to Nate for sharing his family with "the world" and also helping to advance a cause that he probably didn't realize he was advancing. And, I would encourage those reading to think twice about sharing the gift of life with others!

A good check up and a site to check.

After a slow start to the day (we had a two hour delay thanks to snowy, windy weather) things picked up. Then they never slowed down! I got some Silpada work done while Wes was at school and then it was off to his doctors appointment.

Wes ended up having a short day of school and was ready to go for his annual check up with Doctor Cohen. Doctor Cohen is the greatest! Wes has always been happy to go to the doctor, unless shots are involved. But, even then he doesn't fuss. I think the whole concept of being the center of attention makes him happy! The nurse gave us instructions on how to "properly pee in a cup". Good stuff! I love it when your 6 year old boy informs you, while you are holding the cup for him to pee into, that I was not doing it correctly. Whatever! At least he didn't over flow the cup, pee on me and most of the bathroom like Connor did when we last attempted a urine sample at the docs.

It was great to hear that Wes is healthy and right on track with his development. Good job buddy. I'm always thrilled to have healthy boys.

Along those lines. I have been following a blog about a young wife (Tricia), her husband (Nate) and their new baby girl, (Gwyneth). Both momma and baby have some tough medical struggles to get through and their story is very inspirational. Tricia has CF and was on a transplant list for a double lung transplant when the couple were surprised with a pregnancy. The couple has a very strong Christian faith and bravely beat the odds with the early delivery of their baby girl. If you are looking for an example of a couple firmly holding strong to their faith (while it may be different from mine and yours) this is the perfect site to visit. Nate is a great husband and a terrific new daddy....he also takes great photos of Gwyneth. Please visit, and if you pray, pray for them....they deserve it! http://cfhusband.blogspot.com/

Thanks, and I hope everything checks out good for you too today!

Welcome 2008

Yikes, I've done it again. A gaping hole between entries. I do have the holidays as an excuse for not keeping up. I think the month of December went by at a record pace. Anyway, welcome 2008 and Happy New Year.

Everyone looks back on what transpired when a year ends but I would prefer to look ahead. I just recently signed our 3 year old, Connor, up for pre-school. This will be such a huge step for him come September. He is certainly a "mamma's boy", so cutting the cord will be difficult - for both of us.

Another huge milestone for the new year is that Wes will be completing his first year of official education. He has flourished at Kindergarten and has become such a smart little guy. I feel like he has come so far in just the few months he has been in school. Good job Wes and keep up the great school work in first grade (Oh my Gosh!)!

Well, I would also like to say that I have vacations to look forward to in the new year, but we haven't worked that one out yet. I'd love to go on a cruise again this year, but we feel that would be asking too much of the generous grandparents who lovingly cared for the boys for a week in 2007. So, maybe a family vacation somewhere down south this year. We were thinking maybe the Smokies....as long as we stay free and clear of bears. I have a thing about bears.

We also hope that the new year will give our home a few upgrades. We would like to complete the second half of our landscaping. Which means that we have to fork over a large amount of money to the talented landscaper that did the first half of our yard. I do NOT have a green thumb and the ground in our yard is harder than cement. No kidding.

Our home was new when we moved in back in October of 2000. However, after the shock of two boys, numerous dirty shoes and the stupid cat...our carpets need replaced. Along that line most, if not all, of our walls need painting. Especially the areas the contain pink marker, craters from thrown hot wheels cars and other strange events. So, we have our work cut out for us.

I also hope that 2008 will be a healthier year for all of us. While I have some weight to loose, as does my loving husband, we haven't found our way to the Y as of yet to make it go away. So, hopefully that will transpire!

And, speaking of my loving husband (Chris), I'm looking forward to a few getaways with him. Our eight year anniversary will be coming up next week . He is the most caring father, loving husband and greatest friend I could have hoped to have in my life. So, most of all I am looking forward to spending this new year with him! While I am giving him props I will advertise his new blog at www.ftfun.blogspot.com. Good luck with your blog and keep it up! No slacking...like I'm to talk.

Welcome 2008 and I hope it is a good one for all of us!