We are busy getting ready for the social worker to come today to do a home study. So I decided I'd better clean. I've got to admit something to you. I hate cleaning. I really hate it. To top it off, it's at the bottom of my list because other things have to come first like schooling our kids, the business and blogging. So needless to say, there is a fair amount of dust that has collected upon layer upon layer of itself.
As I was dusting, (yes, I actually dusted for this appointment), I found my long lost children. Seriously, I actually found the top of my entertainment center. My daughter comes out in the livingroom and says, "Woooooowww, it's beautiful!" I wasn't sure if I should hug her for being so complimentary and encouraging or if I should just stop right there and let her continue the cleaning for being unsympathetic to my inadequacies. Since, I really want it clean, I chose to ignore her comment.
As we continued on, I discovered not only the ceiling fan but the ceiling around it coated in these cute little particles we've become so fond off. Note to self....do not and I repeat, do not dust the entertainment center of anything below the ceiling until after you've dusted the fan blades. Another note to self...do not stand directly under ceiling fan when dusting blades as you will get a nice eyeful of dust.
So now we are mostly done with the cleaning or as much as is going to get done at this point, so I'm going to grab some lunch before I pass out from lack of nourishment. But before I go, I had one last thought....
Recently in the news there was this article on 'Popcorn lung'. It's actually a real disease you can get from inhaling the fumes from the microwave popcorn bag. It got me to thinking that in the cleaning fury that was going on in the house today, I must post a disclaimer on our home. Here it is....
If you enter this home or live in this home shortly after a cleaning storm has occurred, please be aware of the 'dust lung' disease that could occur and has a potential for hazardous breathing. Should you inhale the thick cloud of dust that is lingering in the air, please be advised that a chorus of sneezing will surely clear any further damage to the nostrils, windpipe and lung of such individuals.
Friday, September 28, 2007
Monday, September 24, 2007
Follow that Red Suburban to Port Huron KOA
We recently took a camping trip to the Port Huron KOA. We had a long weekend scheduled to spend with other fellow homeschooling families from our group.
After arriving at our destination, we found our site. It was a beautiful, pull-through site with full hook-up. For those of you who are unfamiliar with those terms, I'll explain. A pull through site is a site that is available for you to just pull your camper through and park. There is no backing in, no shimmying this way and that way to get your 30 foot camper in a 15 foot site. Trust me, it's a beautiful thing. The other term, full hook-up, means you have water, electricity and sewer. In my opinion, this is a must have. We've spent most of the summer camping without it and boy, what a difference it makes when you don't have to fuss about your tanks getting to full or fussing about running out of water while you are in the shower! Again, it's a must have!
The weather was a bit cold but at least the sun was shining making it a beautiful Fall-like weekend. The kids had a blast inspite of the temperature. We spent much of the weekend around the campfire trying to keep warm. We did have one unfortunate incident which could have been very bad but thank goodness it turned out to be minor. Aaron was walking around the campfire and tripped over his scooter, landing on the ground but his fingers touched the grill on the pit with the fire going full force. At first, all we could hear is the screaming and I couldn't tell what exactly was burned so I put ice on all of his fingers. Of course, after the incident was over, I read somewhere you are not suppose to do that but I'm just glad it turned out ok. After sitting with him for quite some time and finally distracting him with chocolate (which worked!), we found that only one finger was affected. From then on, he steered clear of our campfire.
Our homeschool group activity was planned for the Sawmill City that is attached to the KOA. They had the bumper boats still up and running and the kids, despite how cold it was, enjoyed those even in the process of getting soaked. The biggest hit with my kids was the GO-Karts. My boys love cars that go fast!
The Port Huron KOA is a wonderful place to camp. They have a very fun jumping pillow that Ryan absolutely loved and spent most of his time doing. They have unusual bikes you can rent by the hour which were also a hit with the kids. Then there was the game room, the general store and the pizza place. The people who work there were very accommodating and friendly too. It just makes it a great camping experience.
We give the Port Huron KOA a seven thumbs up!
We also give our homeschool group, Macomb Christian Homeschoolers, a seven thumbs up! You guys rock!
After arriving at our destination, we found our site. It was a beautiful, pull-through site with full hook-up. For those of you who are unfamiliar with those terms, I'll explain. A pull through site is a site that is available for you to just pull your camper through and park. There is no backing in, no shimmying this way and that way to get your 30 foot camper in a 15 foot site. Trust me, it's a beautiful thing. The other term, full hook-up, means you have water, electricity and sewer. In my opinion, this is a must have. We've spent most of the summer camping without it and boy, what a difference it makes when you don't have to fuss about your tanks getting to full or fussing about running out of water while you are in the shower! Again, it's a must have!
The weather was a bit cold but at least the sun was shining making it a beautiful Fall-like weekend. The kids had a blast inspite of the temperature. We spent much of the weekend around the campfire trying to keep warm. We did have one unfortunate incident which could have been very bad but thank goodness it turned out to be minor. Aaron was walking around the campfire and tripped over his scooter, landing on the ground but his fingers touched the grill on the pit with the fire going full force. At first, all we could hear is the screaming and I couldn't tell what exactly was burned so I put ice on all of his fingers. Of course, after the incident was over, I read somewhere you are not suppose to do that but I'm just glad it turned out ok. After sitting with him for quite some time and finally distracting him with chocolate (which worked!), we found that only one finger was affected. From then on, he steered clear of our campfire.
Our homeschool group activity was planned for the Sawmill City that is attached to the KOA. They had the bumper boats still up and running and the kids, despite how cold it was, enjoyed those even in the process of getting soaked. The biggest hit with my kids was the GO-Karts. My boys love cars that go fast!
The Port Huron KOA is a wonderful place to camp. They have a very fun jumping pillow that Ryan absolutely loved and spent most of his time doing. They have unusual bikes you can rent by the hour which were also a hit with the kids. Then there was the game room, the general store and the pizza place. The people who work there were very accommodating and friendly too. It just makes it a great camping experience.We give the Port Huron KOA a seven thumbs up!
We also give our homeschool group, Macomb Christian Homeschoolers, a seven thumbs up! You guys rock!
Saturday, September 22, 2007
She's......10!
Today is Grace's special day! She has now reached 10!Originally, we had a cute as a cupcake day planned with several of her friends. They were to get their nails painted, hair done and all that goes along with that but much to her dismay, business is very slow for her parents so she agreed to an alternative.
Grace and I spent the day shopping yesterday! She made her list of stores she wanted to browse through and we checked them off as we went along. We started out at DSW Shoes and then went to Family Christian Bookstore. Then, it was lunchtime. Her choice for lunch was Steak-n-Shake. She had a steak burger, cheese fries and a double fudge dark chocolate sippable sundae.
Off to the mall was next on her list. We browsed through the Disney Store, J.C. Penney's, Libby Lu, K.B. Toys and Sears. Then we went to JoAnne's where she picked out material and a pattern for Grandma to teach her a bit about sewing. After that we hit Target where the fun never ends.
Today, she had breakfast with Dad to start the day our right. We had a family birthday party for Grandma who is now 93 to attend so we took out some time for that. Then we had dinner at the Coney Island with dessert at Dairy Queen.
She even got her Hanana Montana wig! She'd love to pass out autographs....if you ask nicely!
Happy 10th Birthday, Grace!
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Detours....
Sometimes you find yourself truckin' down life's highway and all of the sudden out of the blue you come upon a pretty neon orange colored sign that says, "Detour". It's not something you've expected but you've got to make a decision. This week, our family has hit one of those 'detour signs'.
I got a call from my Grandma yesterday. She had a bit of news about one of our family members that was very sad. I won't go into all the details but the main point was that two little girls were removed from the home and put into the foster care system. Only a blood relative could get them out. As she was telling me this, my heart started to race and my mind was going into action. Do we know a relative that would take them was the question asked. I wasn't sure who or if anybody would be willing. Then I started thinking about the possibility of us.....
After getting off the phone, I promptly went to tell my husband what was going on. He said to me...Why don't we take them? A flood of questions and what if's started running through my mind. I never really considered being a foster parent. Would this make things sticky with the family? How would people take it? The money is a huge issue. Where would we put them? There are so many things to think about and work out here like...space. But I agreed to call the social worker.
The social worker asked me why I would want two more if I already had five. All I have to say is....the more the merrier. That, and maybe I'm a nut. If this goes through, I'm totally getting a sign for my door! Welcome to the Nuthouse!
On a more serious note, I keep thinking about those two little girls who our family hasn't been able to be around because of the situation but if we were to take them, they would be able to get to know some of their family members. I know this could just be temporary but we don't know what God has in store in the temporary. Perhaps this is one place God can use our family to reach out and help. Sometimes God asks us to go beyond ourselves and do things that make absolutely no sense. I wonder if this is one of those times?
It is going to mean huge changes and our kids said they were up for the challenge....well, most of them. Our oldest, is a little concerned. He said that it's already crazy here. But in the end, his only comment was that his babysitting fee was going up. I guess that means he's adjusting to the idea.
There are a lot of things that have to get checked out and prepared before this all comes together. I ask that you would pray for us, that if this is God's will that all the details would be worked out smoothly and the transition would go well.
I got a call from my Grandma yesterday. She had a bit of news about one of our family members that was very sad. I won't go into all the details but the main point was that two little girls were removed from the home and put into the foster care system. Only a blood relative could get them out. As she was telling me this, my heart started to race and my mind was going into action. Do we know a relative that would take them was the question asked. I wasn't sure who or if anybody would be willing. Then I started thinking about the possibility of us.....
After getting off the phone, I promptly went to tell my husband what was going on. He said to me...Why don't we take them? A flood of questions and what if's started running through my mind. I never really considered being a foster parent. Would this make things sticky with the family? How would people take it? The money is a huge issue. Where would we put them? There are so many things to think about and work out here like...space. But I agreed to call the social worker.
The social worker asked me why I would want two more if I already had five. All I have to say is....the more the merrier. That, and maybe I'm a nut. If this goes through, I'm totally getting a sign for my door! Welcome to the Nuthouse!
On a more serious note, I keep thinking about those two little girls who our family hasn't been able to be around because of the situation but if we were to take them, they would be able to get to know some of their family members. I know this could just be temporary but we don't know what God has in store in the temporary. Perhaps this is one place God can use our family to reach out and help. Sometimes God asks us to go beyond ourselves and do things that make absolutely no sense. I wonder if this is one of those times?
It is going to mean huge changes and our kids said they were up for the challenge....well, most of them. Our oldest, is a little concerned. He said that it's already crazy here. But in the end, his only comment was that his babysitting fee was going up. I guess that means he's adjusting to the idea.
There are a lot of things that have to get checked out and prepared before this all comes together. I ask that you would pray for us, that if this is God's will that all the details would be worked out smoothly and the transition would go well.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
I've Been Tagged Again!
Long, long ago in the land of 'the Mom with Brownies', I was tagged to do a meme on The Top Ten Books I needed should I be trapped on an Island with my children. So here it goes:
1. Bringing Up Boys by Dr. James Dobson would be an absolute must.
2. Making Children Mind Without Losing Yours by Kevin Leman.
3. Frog and Toad Together.
4. Bob books (the entire set) because one of the children wants to read the following.
5. Captain Underpants and the Preposterous Plight of the Purple Potty People.
6. The Bible.
7. The Lord of the Ring Series
8. Narnia
9. The Pokey Little Puppy
10. SAS Survival Handbook: How to Survive in the Wild, in any Climate, on land or at Sea
Ok, Random Harmony, you're it!
1. Bringing Up Boys by Dr. James Dobson would be an absolute must.
2. Making Children Mind Without Losing Yours by Kevin Leman.
3. Frog and Toad Together.
4. Bob books (the entire set) because one of the children wants to read the following.
5. Captain Underpants and the Preposterous Plight of the Purple Potty People.
6. The Bible.
7. The Lord of the Ring Series
8. Narnia
9. The Pokey Little Puppy
10. SAS Survival Handbook: How to Survive in the Wild, in any Climate, on land or at Sea
Ok, Random Harmony, you're it!
Monday, September 03, 2007
Follow That Red Suburban to The Romeo Peach Festival
We decided to pack the kids up in the 'burb' and head for the Romeo Peach Festival. It's an annual event that has been going on for like 76 years. I grew up there and attended them year after year. Now we bring our kids to it and they get to hear me walk down memory lane as we drive into town.
Just as a side note, as we were getting ready to go, Ryan comes running around the corner with paper attached to his feet. He was quite delighted with himself. I had to ask, though, how he got the paper to stick. His answer.....glue, of course! Silly me...why didn't I think of that.
We arrived in town, parked the car in my cousin's driveway, loaded up the stroller and off we went, to find a place to watch the parade. We hooked up with some very dear friends and settled in to see what this years parade would bring. Within two seconds, our oldest found the hot dog stand and had his order placed and half eaten before I could even get my camp chair out of it's bag. Silly me....I should have figured that!
One of my favorites is the school bands. And they have them from all over. Grace loved the cheerleaders. Ryan and Aaron loved the candy that was being thrown. And Brad....he loves the food. It does taste better there, doesn't it??? It's like going to Home Depot on a Saturday just for the Hot Dog's. Whoever heard of that?
We mentioned to the kids that maybe, maybe we would go to the carnival. Why I do this to myself is clearly questionable. I forget from year to year what this means. This is what happens.....
....we got to carnival, fighting big crowds of people. Stand in long line to get tickets for rides. Freak out at cost of rides, elephant ears, pop, games, etc. Lose Aaron. Say to ourselves, "what were we thinking"! Promptly leave with kids whining that they only got to do one thing. Husband reminding wife that she forgets what happens with our carnival adventures. Wife pushing stroller frantically fast to get the heck out of there while husband is reminding her of such mentioned heretofore.
Quick give that man $100 (ok, so it was like $9 but it seemed like a $100) so they can whack the bell with a big hammer so we can say they did something so they can get those 'prizes' (since we don't have enough at home to hit mommy in the head with) at the carnival and let's get the heck out of here before we lose Aaron (again)!
We arrived at my Aunt's house in town where we were to have dinner. Ryan and Aaron met my cousin's boy who happens to be about the same age and they, together, hit the dirt pile. Between guns and sand, they were happily playing. The rest of us were entertained by Kara's fascination with a 13 year old dog whose name is Cinders. Kara loves dogs. She even tries to talk to them in doginese. I think they might just understand each other. She had her (the dog) following her around. Much to my shock, the dog was licking her face and mouth and boy, was she loving that. The dog kissed her! She squealed with delight. She pulled, patted, hugged and tried to pick up that dog. He was probably glad when we left~!
After a wonderful meal and a lovely time together, we headed on home. Bedtime was finally here!
We give the Romeo Peach Festival a seven thumbs up! It's parade and festivities around town make it a great adventure for the whole family.
Just as a side note, as we were getting ready to go, Ryan comes running around the corner with paper attached to his feet. He was quite delighted with himself. I had to ask, though, how he got the paper to stick. His answer.....glue, of course! Silly me...why didn't I think of that.
We arrived in town, parked the car in my cousin's driveway, loaded up the stroller and off we went, to find a place to watch the parade. We hooked up with some very dear friends and settled in to see what this years parade would bring. Within two seconds, our oldest found the hot dog stand and had his order placed and half eaten before I could even get my camp chair out of it's bag. Silly me....I should have figured that!One of my favorites is the school bands. And they have them from all over. Grace loved the cheerleaders. Ryan and Aaron loved the candy that was being thrown. And Brad....he loves the food. It does taste better there, doesn't it??? It's like going to Home Depot on a Saturday just for the Hot Dog's. Whoever heard of that?
We mentioned to the kids that maybe, maybe we would go to the carnival. Why I do this to myself is clearly questionable. I forget from year to year what this means. This is what happens.....
....we got to carnival, fighting big crowds of people. Stand in long line to get tickets for rides. Freak out at cost of rides, elephant ears, pop, games, etc. Lose Aaron. Say to ourselves, "what were we thinking"! Promptly leave with kids whining that they only got to do one thing. Husband reminding wife that she forgets what happens with our carnival adventures. Wife pushing stroller frantically fast to get the heck out of there while husband is reminding her of such mentioned heretofore.
Quick give that man $100 (ok, so it was like $9 but it seemed like a $100) so they can whack the bell with a big hammer so we can say they did something so they can get those 'prizes' (since we don't have enough at home to hit mommy in the head with) at the carnival and let's get the heck out of here before we lose Aaron (again)!We arrived at my Aunt's house in town where we were to have dinner. Ryan and Aaron met my cousin's boy who happens to be about the same age and they, together, hit the dirt pile. Between guns and sand, they were happily playing. The rest of us were entertained by Kara's fascination with a 13 year old dog whose name is Cinders. Kara loves dogs. She even tries to talk to them in doginese. I think they might just understand each other. She had her (the dog) following her around. Much to my shock, the dog was licking her face and mouth and boy, was she loving that. The dog kissed her! She squealed with delight. She pulled, patted, hugged and tried to pick up that dog. He was probably glad when we left~!
After a wonderful meal and a lovely time together, we headed on home. Bedtime was finally here!
We give the Romeo Peach Festival a seven thumbs up! It's parade and festivities around town make it a great adventure for the whole family.
Sunday, September 02, 2007
Again with the Sunday's
Sundays are always interesting.
I woke up this morning behind schedule. My kids didn't even wake me up. Most days I would have welcomed this with open arms but in order for me to get everyone ready and out the door on time, I have to be up at a certain time. I'm not complaining, mind you....my husband was trying to do something nice for me by keeping the kids away from my bedside. He just chose the wrong day to do it. I didn't want to tell him anything but how much I appreciated his efforts for fear it would never happen again.
I did manage to get myself and the kids ready and we did arrive at church around the same time we usually get there....yes, there was still singing going on and I don't mean at the end of the service. This should tell you something. We arrived before the sermon started even though I'm not sure how important that is since we only hear bits and pieces of it. We spend more time chasing Aaron around the atrium because it's more fun to sit on the base of the pedestals and it's more fun to crawl under the seats....and oh, let's lay on the floor and put our feet up on the seats while singing a song we made up is even better. Then there is the trips to the bathroom with Ryan, trips to the water fountain because we are soooo very thirsty. So thirsty it just can't wait. Thus the cycle....water goes in, water must come out. Just don't ask me what the sermon was about and we'll be all set.
We happened to be having communion. How do you take communion seriously when one of your children asks you what the prune juice is for. We decided to let our two oldest take communion since they know what it is for and about. But what I wasn't counting on was when one kids gets to do something the other's just have to too. All of the sudden, I have two boys who are six and three asking for a snack. Why can't we have a snack? I need a dwink. I'm hungry. Why do they get to have a snack and we don't??? Mom...mom...mom...mmmmoooommmm!
After rounding up the children, we headed home because I was so in need of a nap. I think I mentioned that fact to the people around me as I was dragging my weary body out of church. They just smiled and nodded. I don't think they quite understood what I was getting at. I am telling you, it's like getting a holy workout. Just go to church with five kids!
I tried laying on the couch for a few minutes to rest my eyes but the pats on the face because I just have to ask you a question did not provide for a restful experience. I recently bought a book for Ryan and I to put a paper dinosaur together. He loves dinosaurs and I thought what a lovely time we would have together putting this project together. I think I wasn't thinking about the nagging to do it that would come with the package. He was quite excited about it and nagged me for three days to do it with him. Next time...I'm waiting till we have time to do it RIGHT now, right then before I reveal what I have in my hands.
So we are sitting there at the table putting together this dinosaur. There was cutting out to do which Ryan wanted me to do. He wanted to do the gluing. I was glad he was willing to do that since I wasn't sure what the end result would look like had it been the other way around. He kept checking the picture to make sure it was looking like what he saw.
We had the head finished and I was working on the body when all of the sudden....WHAM, I get hit in the forehead with the dinosaur head that was followed by growly noises. Yes, my three year old was using the head as a Goliath-type figure stomping on all our papers sending them flying to the floor along with the directions and of course, you have to have boyish growly noises to go with everything you are playing with. It's for the whole effect. My day is complete....I've been properly hit in the head with a flying object.
After politely telling Aaron that Mommy isn't in the mood for objects thrown at her head, we continued on. He must have been feeling left out as he decided it was necessary to sit right next to me. Since there wasn't a chair, the table is where he decided he was sitting. Try cutting out dinosaur parts while being bumped in the arm a jillion times. I hope Ryan's not going to get the magnifying glass out for inspection! All of the sudden, I have three little fingers flash before my eyes that had something greenish on them. I was about to ask him what he had when instantly my sentence stopped before I could even finish it. Green stuff on a three year's finger can only mean one thing......his fingers were in his pull-up....ughhhhh!!!
After washing his hands and cleaning out his fingernails, I began to question (once again) why he would ever do such a thing. I know, I find myself asking that same thing over and over again with no answer in sight. He's just a boy....a rascally one, at that.
I finally got to the tail of the dinosaur. All the parts were attached and it was standing. I was so happy. Then, Aaron struck again. He grabbed the dinosaur with growly noises echoing throughout the house and the dinosaur came tumbling down in pieces. Ryan cried. Mom cried. Aaron laughed. Not in a mean way. More like, that was way cool...do it again, Mom. Back to the drawing board....after I've had some deep, deep sleep....in a couple days.....when all this fun has wore off and I'm ready for more.
And this, is why Sunday's are interesting.
I woke up this morning behind schedule. My kids didn't even wake me up. Most days I would have welcomed this with open arms but in order for me to get everyone ready and out the door on time, I have to be up at a certain time. I'm not complaining, mind you....my husband was trying to do something nice for me by keeping the kids away from my bedside. He just chose the wrong day to do it. I didn't want to tell him anything but how much I appreciated his efforts for fear it would never happen again.
I did manage to get myself and the kids ready and we did arrive at church around the same time we usually get there....yes, there was still singing going on and I don't mean at the end of the service. This should tell you something. We arrived before the sermon started even though I'm not sure how important that is since we only hear bits and pieces of it. We spend more time chasing Aaron around the atrium because it's more fun to sit on the base of the pedestals and it's more fun to crawl under the seats....and oh, let's lay on the floor and put our feet up on the seats while singing a song we made up is even better. Then there is the trips to the bathroom with Ryan, trips to the water fountain because we are soooo very thirsty. So thirsty it just can't wait. Thus the cycle....water goes in, water must come out. Just don't ask me what the sermon was about and we'll be all set.
We happened to be having communion. How do you take communion seriously when one of your children asks you what the prune juice is for. We decided to let our two oldest take communion since they know what it is for and about. But what I wasn't counting on was when one kids gets to do something the other's just have to too. All of the sudden, I have two boys who are six and three asking for a snack. Why can't we have a snack? I need a dwink. I'm hungry. Why do they get to have a snack and we don't??? Mom...mom...mom...mmmmoooommmm!
After rounding up the children, we headed home because I was so in need of a nap. I think I mentioned that fact to the people around me as I was dragging my weary body out of church. They just smiled and nodded. I don't think they quite understood what I was getting at. I am telling you, it's like getting a holy workout. Just go to church with five kids!
I tried laying on the couch for a few minutes to rest my eyes but the pats on the face because I just have to ask you a question did not provide for a restful experience. I recently bought a book for Ryan and I to put a paper dinosaur together. He loves dinosaurs and I thought what a lovely time we would have together putting this project together. I think I wasn't thinking about the nagging to do it that would come with the package. He was quite excited about it and nagged me for three days to do it with him. Next time...I'm waiting till we have time to do it RIGHT now, right then before I reveal what I have in my hands.
So we are sitting there at the table putting together this dinosaur. There was cutting out to do which Ryan wanted me to do. He wanted to do the gluing. I was glad he was willing to do that since I wasn't sure what the end result would look like had it been the other way around. He kept checking the picture to make sure it was looking like what he saw.
We had the head finished and I was working on the body when all of the sudden....WHAM, I get hit in the forehead with the dinosaur head that was followed by growly noises. Yes, my three year old was using the head as a Goliath-type figure stomping on all our papers sending them flying to the floor along with the directions and of course, you have to have boyish growly noises to go with everything you are playing with. It's for the whole effect. My day is complete....I've been properly hit in the head with a flying object.
After politely telling Aaron that Mommy isn't in the mood for objects thrown at her head, we continued on. He must have been feeling left out as he decided it was necessary to sit right next to me. Since there wasn't a chair, the table is where he decided he was sitting. Try cutting out dinosaur parts while being bumped in the arm a jillion times. I hope Ryan's not going to get the magnifying glass out for inspection! All of the sudden, I have three little fingers flash before my eyes that had something greenish on them. I was about to ask him what he had when instantly my sentence stopped before I could even finish it. Green stuff on a three year's finger can only mean one thing......his fingers were in his pull-up....ughhhhh!!!
After washing his hands and cleaning out his fingernails, I began to question (once again) why he would ever do such a thing. I know, I find myself asking that same thing over and over again with no answer in sight. He's just a boy....a rascally one, at that.
I finally got to the tail of the dinosaur. All the parts were attached and it was standing. I was so happy. Then, Aaron struck again. He grabbed the dinosaur with growly noises echoing throughout the house and the dinosaur came tumbling down in pieces. Ryan cried. Mom cried. Aaron laughed. Not in a mean way. More like, that was way cool...do it again, Mom. Back to the drawing board....after I've had some deep, deep sleep....in a couple days.....when all this fun has wore off and I'm ready for more.
And this, is why Sunday's are interesting.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Eviction Notice
Dear Mr. Creepy Spider,
I've noticed that you've taken a liking to my car. It appears to me that you have settled in quite nicely. I realize that you might not understand where I stand on this situation so let me inform you how it is....
I do not nor ever have liked your creepy crawly spider-like body, legs or anything about you. I'm not sure why you must be around to torture unsuspecting characters like myself. If I'm digging in my flower bed, you like to jump out at me and send my heart to palpitating. I also don't find it very funny when I'm using the ladies room (yes, it's a ladies room when I'm in there....when the kids are in there, it can be a bathroom, 'the john', or whatever other cute little word they come up with) and you decide to either scamper across the floor in front of me or run up the wall beside me. Running across the floor in any part of the house is also not appreciated. Oh, and by the way, you should have warned your little spider friend that likes to hang out on my mailbox that I don't like that either. The little Clorox cocktail that we gave him ended his parcel post adventures.
I never dreamed that you would even have the audacity to make your home in my car. I know you are there because you leave a mess when I'm not in there. Webs everywhere....on my dashboard, across my steering wheel, along the window and all around. I don't think that is very considerate of you. My kids are trying to be nice to you by leaving you food to munch on, sticky cups to feed your sugar tooth and anything you could ever want to make a home in. The least you could do is be a little bit grateful.
There is another situation I must address. I do not like it when you try to crawl up my leg when I'm driving. Swerving from lane to lane recklessly is not looked on by the police as being a good driver. I had to pull over two times the other day because you decided to scamper across the window and dashboard while I was trying to get to the store. I wonder what people thought as they passed me by. They probably were wondering what that mad woman was doing with her shoe off, whacking everything in sight.
Since you've shown no consideration in your new home and are refusing to find the quickest exit. Please find yourself served with an official eviction notice. You do not have thirty (30) days. That is only for humans which you are NOT. You are expected to leave immediately. The next time I enter my car, I expect you to be gone for good. Keep in mind when making your choice that it is best to choose wisely. I have a Clorox bottle and I'm not afraid to use it. I also have three boys who could decide to use you for a biology project. Yes, my friend, school is starting up in just a few days......days in which you are limited on.
Respectfully,
The landlord
I've noticed that you've taken a liking to my car. It appears to me that you have settled in quite nicely. I realize that you might not understand where I stand on this situation so let me inform you how it is....
I do not nor ever have liked your creepy crawly spider-like body, legs or anything about you. I'm not sure why you must be around to torture unsuspecting characters like myself. If I'm digging in my flower bed, you like to jump out at me and send my heart to palpitating. I also don't find it very funny when I'm using the ladies room (yes, it's a ladies room when I'm in there....when the kids are in there, it can be a bathroom, 'the john', or whatever other cute little word they come up with) and you decide to either scamper across the floor in front of me or run up the wall beside me. Running across the floor in any part of the house is also not appreciated. Oh, and by the way, you should have warned your little spider friend that likes to hang out on my mailbox that I don't like that either. The little Clorox cocktail that we gave him ended his parcel post adventures.
I never dreamed that you would even have the audacity to make your home in my car. I know you are there because you leave a mess when I'm not in there. Webs everywhere....on my dashboard, across my steering wheel, along the window and all around. I don't think that is very considerate of you. My kids are trying to be nice to you by leaving you food to munch on, sticky cups to feed your sugar tooth and anything you could ever want to make a home in. The least you could do is be a little bit grateful.
There is another situation I must address. I do not like it when you try to crawl up my leg when I'm driving. Swerving from lane to lane recklessly is not looked on by the police as being a good driver. I had to pull over two times the other day because you decided to scamper across the window and dashboard while I was trying to get to the store. I wonder what people thought as they passed me by. They probably were wondering what that mad woman was doing with her shoe off, whacking everything in sight.
Since you've shown no consideration in your new home and are refusing to find the quickest exit. Please find yourself served with an official eviction notice. You do not have thirty (30) days. That is only for humans which you are NOT. You are expected to leave immediately. The next time I enter my car, I expect you to be gone for good. Keep in mind when making your choice that it is best to choose wisely. I have a Clorox bottle and I'm not afraid to use it. I also have three boys who could decide to use you for a biology project. Yes, my friend, school is starting up in just a few days......days in which you are limited on.
Respectfully,
The landlord
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Grocery Store Adventures
There is this wonderfully hilarious auction that hit Ebay recently. I know this, not because I am an avid Ebayer but because it hit my 'inbox' like 50 times from different people I know. It took me like a couple days to get to it because well...I've got five kids. Should I explain further?
I have to say if you are currently surrounded by children, once were surrounded by children or even know somebody that was or is surrounded by children, it is a must read. It will give you a glimpse of or a reminder of what life is like. As I was reading it, I felt like I was reading a snippet from my life only it was funny and had me in stitches whereas when things like that happen to me, I'm just a crazy yelling fool of a mother. Take a minute, or two or three to check it out!
I have many of my own grocery store stories that I could share, one's that have led me to have a 'one kid' rule but I'll just share one from a recent experience....
Brad recently turned 12 and is chomping at the bit to earn some extra money. He has agreed to babysit for me when I've got some errands to run. This is a good idea except that no one ever wants to stay home. They have an alert system in place that goes off in their cute little heads, the minute I put my shoes on. It goes off even if I only put my shoes on to go into the laundry room, so that the sand that is from one of our recent camping trips doesn't stick to my feet. The shoes go on and I've got five little children surrounding me as close as they can get till the oxygen in my personal space is all used up and I have to bolt to another location of the house to get a breath.
About a week ago, I had some errands to run and decided that if I took the "twins" (they are not really but people ask) that maybe that would remove some chaos from the home, leaving Brad to have quiet time as Kara was napping. After two of the errands were completed, I excitedly thought to myself that I was still sane and intact as a calm Mother. The boys were a little rascally but nothing that sent me into crazy-mode.
My third and final errand was the grocery store. I agreed to take the boys because I wasn't going for a full grocery store run, I just had a few things to get. Don't ever let that thought fool you....it never is just a few things when you have a posse with you. The minute we hit the parking lot, the rumble of running feet could be heard clear to Tacoma, Washington. I grabbed my purse and was off on a run to (hopefully) catch up to them before they stormed the grocery store.
Upon entering the store, the cute little carts they have with a car attached to the front for the kids had them fighting over who was going to sit in it first. By the time I caught up with them, both of the buggers were in the seat at the same time trying to push the other out. That should have been my cue that we just walk back out the door and leave immediately. But do I listen to my instincts? Noooo....that would just be too easy. I need a challenge daily, apparently.
We made it through the produce department with only one lady getting angry at us because we were blocking the banana's while we were fighting over which bunch to purchase. Let me ask you, because I was under the assumption that a banana is just a banana, I didn't realize there were preferences to which banana would taste better....do you know? My two boys do know and were loudly explaining that with crying between words.
We then came to the lunch meat counter. There weren't many people standing there so I foolishly thought that I could get what I wanted rather quickly, before their attention span ran out and were off and running down the aisles. The meat cutter person couldn't find the ham out front that I asked for, so he had to go in the back, which took forever. In the meantime, the boys are bringing me stuff to put in the cart because they are trying to 'help'. Between gritted teeth, I was trying to get them to understand that Mommy's patience level was leaving the building and she didn't want to start screaming so early in the grocery store shopping adventure. They were oblivious.
After fighting with them over and over again with who was sitting in that stupid car cart, cookies, kool-aid jammers, pop and chips, I decided that I'd had enough to get us by for a day or so and that it was INDEED time to leave. While I'm trying to get through the checkout, the boys beg me and beg me for quarters that they want to put in the machine. Now you might think they are trying to get gumballs or something of that nature, but that isn't what they are wanting the quarters for. Have you ever seen the big red vending machine with all the flashing lights that happens to dispense lottery tickets? Yep, that's what the boys want. I tried to explain to them that those were the big people's gumball machines, (heh) but they wouldn't listen...it's pretty, flashy and is sure to dispense some wonderful treasure.
Perhaps the grocery store bagger felt sorry for me, or perhaps they were just trying to help me exit as fast as possible and loaded up my cart, pushing it out the door to my car for me. I think he was trying to be helpful and he was since I needed both of my hands to drag the cute little boys out the door before they really discovered the gumball machine that was meant for them.
After loading the vehicle with our groceries and getting them buckled in, I fell into my seat exhausted and desperately needing chocolate (that I forgot to purchase for me) or a Starbucks. I was overwhelmed with the reminder that I really, really need to stick to my 'one kid' rule. Don't let those lit up faces with adorable smiles melt your heart so you give in and let them go with you.....it's only their evil plan.
I have to say if you are currently surrounded by children, once were surrounded by children or even know somebody that was or is surrounded by children, it is a must read. It will give you a glimpse of or a reminder of what life is like. As I was reading it, I felt like I was reading a snippet from my life only it was funny and had me in stitches whereas when things like that happen to me, I'm just a crazy yelling fool of a mother. Take a minute, or two or three to check it out!
I have many of my own grocery store stories that I could share, one's that have led me to have a 'one kid' rule but I'll just share one from a recent experience....
Brad recently turned 12 and is chomping at the bit to earn some extra money. He has agreed to babysit for me when I've got some errands to run. This is a good idea except that no one ever wants to stay home. They have an alert system in place that goes off in their cute little heads, the minute I put my shoes on. It goes off even if I only put my shoes on to go into the laundry room, so that the sand that is from one of our recent camping trips doesn't stick to my feet. The shoes go on and I've got five little children surrounding me as close as they can get till the oxygen in my personal space is all used up and I have to bolt to another location of the house to get a breath.
About a week ago, I had some errands to run and decided that if I took the "twins" (they are not really but people ask) that maybe that would remove some chaos from the home, leaving Brad to have quiet time as Kara was napping. After two of the errands were completed, I excitedly thought to myself that I was still sane and intact as a calm Mother. The boys were a little rascally but nothing that sent me into crazy-mode.
My third and final errand was the grocery store. I agreed to take the boys because I wasn't going for a full grocery store run, I just had a few things to get. Don't ever let that thought fool you....it never is just a few things when you have a posse with you. The minute we hit the parking lot, the rumble of running feet could be heard clear to Tacoma, Washington. I grabbed my purse and was off on a run to (hopefully) catch up to them before they stormed the grocery store.
Upon entering the store, the cute little carts they have with a car attached to the front for the kids had them fighting over who was going to sit in it first. By the time I caught up with them, both of the buggers were in the seat at the same time trying to push the other out. That should have been my cue that we just walk back out the door and leave immediately. But do I listen to my instincts? Noooo....that would just be too easy. I need a challenge daily, apparently.
We made it through the produce department with only one lady getting angry at us because we were blocking the banana's while we were fighting over which bunch to purchase. Let me ask you, because I was under the assumption that a banana is just a banana, I didn't realize there were preferences to which banana would taste better....do you know? My two boys do know and were loudly explaining that with crying between words.
We then came to the lunch meat counter. There weren't many people standing there so I foolishly thought that I could get what I wanted rather quickly, before their attention span ran out and were off and running down the aisles. The meat cutter person couldn't find the ham out front that I asked for, so he had to go in the back, which took forever. In the meantime, the boys are bringing me stuff to put in the cart because they are trying to 'help'. Between gritted teeth, I was trying to get them to understand that Mommy's patience level was leaving the building and she didn't want to start screaming so early in the grocery store shopping adventure. They were oblivious.
After fighting with them over and over again with who was sitting in that stupid car cart, cookies, kool-aid jammers, pop and chips, I decided that I'd had enough to get us by for a day or so and that it was INDEED time to leave. While I'm trying to get through the checkout, the boys beg me and beg me for quarters that they want to put in the machine. Now you might think they are trying to get gumballs or something of that nature, but that isn't what they are wanting the quarters for. Have you ever seen the big red vending machine with all the flashing lights that happens to dispense lottery tickets? Yep, that's what the boys want. I tried to explain to them that those were the big people's gumball machines, (heh) but they wouldn't listen...it's pretty, flashy and is sure to dispense some wonderful treasure.
Perhaps the grocery store bagger felt sorry for me, or perhaps they were just trying to help me exit as fast as possible and loaded up my cart, pushing it out the door to my car for me. I think he was trying to be helpful and he was since I needed both of my hands to drag the cute little boys out the door before they really discovered the gumball machine that was meant for them.
After loading the vehicle with our groceries and getting them buckled in, I fell into my seat exhausted and desperately needing chocolate (that I forgot to purchase for me) or a Starbucks. I was overwhelmed with the reminder that I really, really need to stick to my 'one kid' rule. Don't let those lit up faces with adorable smiles melt your heart so you give in and let them go with you.....it's only their evil plan.
Friday, August 17, 2007
A World Of Pink
Grace's room is finally finished....except for the putting in of her stuff.It's been a long two months of waiting and waiting but Grace was a trooper!
Three walls in her room are painted with pink pearl and the main wall is painted with pink eraser. The main wall also has a faux finish making it look shimmery.....just the way she likes everything. It is definitely full of girl power.
Kara has also taken a liking too it and thinks she should be in there all the time. I didn't even have to mention to her that it was the 'girl' room. It's quite the popular hangout. The brothers are already helping themselves to the world of pink and don't seem to be the least bit bothered by so much pink.
Unfortunately, Kara's crib didn't fit in there with the queen-size bed and long dresser so we are going to have to look into a different scenario for sleeping whether it be bunk beds or something else. It looks like Grace will get her wish for now......Kara stays in her parents room but her toys and clothes are going in the pink room!
We are so thankful for all the work our friends volunteered to get the room in order. I'm also excited that my girls have their own room to enjoy and I think they are too!
Now for the hard part.....getting rid of some stuff. We are going to need your prayers (or should I say 'I' am going to need them) because a certain someone inherited the 'pack rat' gene thinking she just might 'need that' for something someday....
Friday, August 10, 2007
Goodbye Ol' Friend
We recently got a recall notice in the mail for our dishwasher. I kind of snickered at this because it's like eight years old and has several indications that make it evident that it's a tiredly, well-used dishwasher. As I opened the letter, I kind of scanned it and set it aside. Then all of the sudden the words "fire hazard" sunk in so I picked it up to read more thoroughly.
Yes, indeed, our loyal friend was given a dangerous label. We called the manufacturer and were given the option for them to send out someone to fix it but we would have to pay for the other things that were wrong with it OR they would give us a credit towards a new beauty if we were interested in purchasing another Maytag, Whirlpool or Jenn-air product.
As my husband laid the decision before me, I said "Sold!" You had me at 'New'! It was a done deal with them promising to send out a rebate form. (Yes, I know...ugghh...a rebate form) After finishing up our call with them, I turned to look towards my mountain of dishes as my thoughts wondered off to a far away place where there's never a dirty dish. There nothing more mountainous in a big family then dishes and laundry.
Now I must tell you that I can't go without my dishwasher. Why, I'd have to hand wash them. That's a no-no in my book. How could this be happening. What did I ever do to deserve this punishment??? Why is it that there must be a waiting period between getting rid of the old and bringing in the new? It's...it's just not fair, I whimpered.
Then a thought (not one of my more brilliant ones I admit but necessary for my sanity) came to me. The problem was that the jet dry would leak and come into contact with the heating element which would then start a fire. BUT....what if your jet dry was all out and had been for awhile. Would it ignite if you were to use it IF, IF, IF it were empty leaving no opportunity for any leakage?
Well, in my mind it worked, sounded totally logical and just plain made sense. So I used it some (**snicker) but only if I was going to be right there with it coaxing my loyal friend along. It did me right and kept going not giving an inkling of smoldering and I'm thankful for it's long time service.
Our new black beauty is installed and has already given us some good memories. It promised to help me keep my sanity and promised to keep us in clean dishes as long as I could find someone to fill and empty him.....
Hmmm.....wonder where I might find that special someone.....
Yes, indeed, our loyal friend was given a dangerous label. We called the manufacturer and were given the option for them to send out someone to fix it but we would have to pay for the other things that were wrong with it OR they would give us a credit towards a new beauty if we were interested in purchasing another Maytag, Whirlpool or Jenn-air product.
As my husband laid the decision before me, I said "Sold!" You had me at 'New'! It was a done deal with them promising to send out a rebate form. (Yes, I know...ugghh...a rebate form) After finishing up our call with them, I turned to look towards my mountain of dishes as my thoughts wondered off to a far away place where there's never a dirty dish. There nothing more mountainous in a big family then dishes and laundry.
Now I must tell you that I can't go without my dishwasher. Why, I'd have to hand wash them. That's a no-no in my book. How could this be happening. What did I ever do to deserve this punishment??? Why is it that there must be a waiting period between getting rid of the old and bringing in the new? It's...it's just not fair, I whimpered.
Then a thought (not one of my more brilliant ones I admit but necessary for my sanity) came to me. The problem was that the jet dry would leak and come into contact with the heating element which would then start a fire. BUT....what if your jet dry was all out and had been for awhile. Would it ignite if you were to use it IF, IF, IF it were empty leaving no opportunity for any leakage?
Well, in my mind it worked, sounded totally logical and just plain made sense. So I used it some (**snicker) but only if I was going to be right there with it coaxing my loyal friend along. It did me right and kept going not giving an inkling of smoldering and I'm thankful for it's long time service.
Our new black beauty is installed and has already given us some good memories. It promised to help me keep my sanity and promised to keep us in clean dishes as long as I could find someone to fill and empty him.....
Hmmm.....wonder where I might find that special someone.....
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Follow That Red Suburban to Greenfield Village
Ryan talked about riding the train at Greenfield Village for a month before his birthday arrived. That is what he wanted to do, nothing more...nothing less. Can we go now, Mom? Is it time yet, Mom? When are we going to ride the train, Mom? This is what was being said over and over.
The day FINALLY arrived and he was just about jumping out of his skin. It was a beautiful sunny Sunday, perfect for a train ride. (sshhhhh....don't tell anyone, we skipped church so we could get an earlier start. I'd hate to think word got out on the street that we weren't there.) We all loaded up in the 'zurban' and headed on down there.
Ryan thought we were going to ride the train right when we got there so it was very hard for him to wait until a little later in the day. Especially since the train was the first thing we came across as we entered. He did get a good look at it though! We were trying to pace ourselves just a bit and not do everything all at once.
We ventured forth and ran into a beautiful horse whose brown fur glistened in the sun. As Grace was petting his nose we asked what his name was and was met with..."Her name is Grace!" So now our Grace has met a fellow Gracian. How cool was that?! I'm not sure she was as amused as I was.
We visited many of the little houses, watched glass blowing, pottery molded into mugs, paid attention as class was being demonstrated at the old schoolhouse, asked questions in the courthouse and saw a bit of a live play. We even took a break and had an ice cream.
And.....Ryan got to take his train ride! He was grinning ear to ear when he got off displaying how pleased he was.
Greenfield Village is one of our favorite places to visit. The people who give their time there are always willing to answer your questions. I love the fact that there is a lot of interactive things to do that draws kids and adults in and only adds to a wonderful experience. We've visited also at Christmas time and it's really beautifully decorated along with an old fashioned holiday feel, it's a must-do. We give this place a seven thumbs up!
The day FINALLY arrived and he was just about jumping out of his skin. It was a beautiful sunny Sunday, perfect for a train ride. (sshhhhh....don't tell anyone, we skipped church so we could get an earlier start. I'd hate to think word got out on the street that we weren't there.) We all loaded up in the 'zurban' and headed on down there.
Ryan thought we were going to ride the train right when we got there so it was very hard for him to wait until a little later in the day. Especially since the train was the first thing we came across as we entered. He did get a good look at it though! We were trying to pace ourselves just a bit and not do everything all at once.
We ventured forth and ran into a beautiful horse whose brown fur glistened in the sun. As Grace was petting his nose we asked what his name was and was met with..."Her name is Grace!" So now our Grace has met a fellow Gracian. How cool was that?! I'm not sure she was as amused as I was.
We visited many of the little houses, watched glass blowing, pottery molded into mugs, paid attention as class was being demonstrated at the old schoolhouse, asked questions in the courthouse and saw a bit of a live play. We even took a break and had an ice cream.
And.....Ryan got to take his train ride! He was grinning ear to ear when he got off displaying how pleased he was.
Greenfield Village is one of our favorite places to visit. The people who give their time there are always willing to answer your questions. I love the fact that there is a lot of interactive things to do that draws kids and adults in and only adds to a wonderful experience. We've visited also at Christmas time and it's really beautifully decorated along with an old fashioned holiday feel, it's a must-do. We give this place a seven thumbs up!
Monday, August 06, 2007
Ode To The Cricket
Oh, Mr. Cricket who sings his song
I'm sorry but I hope it won't be too long
I'm searching high and low
But I can't seem to find you, so you can go....
In my house, I hear you loud and clear
where you are, I'm sure you're near
The kitchen is the place you sing
with unending gusto and zing
You've found the perfect spot
To keep you from becoming a big splot
Why must you refuse to stop
this plan, this evil plot
Shush be quiet, my friend
This insanity must end
It's time to find your way
to somewhere far, far away
Out of my house, you must go
please be fast and not slow
Since you can not be found
I beg you, please, to hush that sound!
I'm sorry but I hope it won't be too long
I'm searching high and low
But I can't seem to find you, so you can go....
In my house, I hear you loud and clear
where you are, I'm sure you're near
The kitchen is the place you sing
with unending gusto and zing
You've found the perfect spot
To keep you from becoming a big splot
Why must you refuse to stop
this plan, this evil plot
Shush be quiet, my friend
This insanity must end
It's time to find your way
to somewhere far, far away
Out of my house, you must go
please be fast and not slow
Since you can not be found
I beg you, please, to hush that sound!
Saturday, July 28, 2007
Happy 6th, Ryan!
Today is our Ryan's 6th birthday.
The day began with breakfast at Ram's Horn with Dad. He got the 'best' pancakes, he said. Then, he and Dad went to the local Toys R Us to pick out a new bike. Before he went to bed the night before, he asked again this year (seems to be the annual question) if his legs would be long when he woke up. As Bob was trying to fit him to a bike just the right size for him, they discovered that his legs had indeed grown long. So long that he was no longer the right size for the Spiderman bike which he really wanted. Instead, he had to settle for a really cool red bike with blue and silver that reminded him of Superman and that was just fine, he said.
He has been asking if he could ride the train at Greenfield Village for his birthday for over a month but we were already scheduled to have a family celebration for my Grandpa's graduation in Frankenmuth so we had to postpone the train ride till the following day.
Here's DrumstickWe had the famous chicken from Zenhders for dinner or a famous hot dog if you were Ryan. He got to have his picture taken with Drumstick, the Zenhders chicken who walks around the restaurant greeting all the visitors. Aaron didn't care for the chicken, after getting near him, he decided it was time to go home! And to top off the dinner, Ryan and Uncle Dave (because they share a birthday) got a yummy chocolate sundae.
Uncle Dave and GrandpaWhile we were waiting for everyone to finish up dinner and pay the waiter, Brad decided to show our precious little Kara how to spit peas across the table (see what happens when a 12 year old has too much time on his hands). She loved all the attention she was getting, not to mention the giggles from certain relatives. Can you imagine just how much this spurred her on to continue....guess we ought to leave an extra amount on the tip for clean up???! Just wait till I get ahold of that boy!
After dinner, we walked around some of the cool stores
they have in town with Aunt Katie and Uncle Kent and Lauren (an adopted friend) until Kara ran out of steam and Grace had blisters on her feet from wearing new shoes. Once we were home....it was PRESENT TIME! Ryan received some pretty cool gifts that included Spongebob lego's and a new game for his game boy and Daddy put his bike together.Happy 6th birthday, Ryan!
Friday, July 27, 2007
Photo Opportunities
My Mother mentioned to me recently that she did not have updated pictures of the kids. Hmmm...I thought to myself. I remember when I took the kids to the local Sears to get their pictures taken every three months when they were babies and then once a year. Then I found that it was becoming more stressful for me as we added more children to our family.
The kids would be running around the waiting room while I was in with the child that was currently getting their picture taken or they'd all be with me in the photo room and totally distracting the child that 'needed' to smile. Oh, and then there was those times when we were patiently waiting for our turn, only to find that our photographer was African-American and grumpy sending the child into a sobbing fit or we'd get a photographer that had so many piercings that it was hard to see their face. Can you get your kids to smile without a tear running down their cheek in those instances? Not me..so we'd end up having to reschedule. Ahhh...the memories.
Anybody that knows me, knows how much my camera means to me. I love to capture the natural moments and the kodak moments and all those in between. One day when I was going through some of those pictures, I realized there were some pretty cool shots of the kids. So from that day forward, I decided to use those cool shots of the kids to blow up to 8x10's for the Grandmas and relatives. It is so less stressful then trying to keep the kids clean while you quick hop in the car and get to the photo taking place before they get something on their new outfit you've been saving for just this moment only to find you can't get them to smile even if you stand on your head making quacking noises.
Of course, my new adventure is chasing a 14 month around trying to get a picture of her face so Grandma will be able to display it proudly amongst her growing collage. This is what I've got....
I'm tired! Maybe we'll try again tomorrow :-)
The kids would be running around the waiting room while I was in with the child that was currently getting their picture taken or they'd all be with me in the photo room and totally distracting the child that 'needed' to smile. Oh, and then there was those times when we were patiently waiting for our turn, only to find that our photographer was African-American and grumpy sending the child into a sobbing fit or we'd get a photographer that had so many piercings that it was hard to see their face. Can you get your kids to smile without a tear running down their cheek in those instances? Not me..so we'd end up having to reschedule. Ahhh...the memories.
Anybody that knows me, knows how much my camera means to me. I love to capture the natural moments and the kodak moments and all those in between. One day when I was going through some of those pictures, I realized there were some pretty cool shots of the kids. So from that day forward, I decided to use those cool shots of the kids to blow up to 8x10's for the Grandmas and relatives. It is so less stressful then trying to keep the kids clean while you quick hop in the car and get to the photo taking place before they get something on their new outfit you've been saving for just this moment only to find you can't get them to smile even if you stand on your head making quacking noises.
Of course, my new adventure is chasing a 14 month around trying to get a picture of her face so Grandma will be able to display it proudly amongst her growing collage. This is what I've got....
I'm tired! Maybe we'll try again tomorrow :-)
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Monday, July 16, 2007
Camping With Our Small Group
We left this past Thursday for yet another camping trip. This one was with our small group from church at a private camp site. There were five families that enjoyed the great chilly outdoors. The weather for the most part was partly sunny with a smattering of rain here and there but it was quite cool during the day and downright cold at night.We ate all our meals together under the pavilion, played cards (I even learned how to play euchre!), and watched the children play on the mountain of dirt. Some went fishing, shot skeet, played their guitar and we even did an experiment that included a bottle of diet coke and mentos. We canceled the trip to the beach due to the north wind blowing in the cold front. We took turns sweeping and mopping to keep the place clean. Our Kara decided to add her help in making footprints with her dirty little feet on a newly mopped floor....
One of the families brought their fluffy white dog named Lightning. Kara took a liking to him instantly. She followed him (or should I say she stalked him day and night) around waving at him while saying 'hi there'. She pounded on him, laid on him, tried to crawl over him and even brought him some of his dog treats. Of course, she had to taste it first before her Mother flew over the picnic tables to get to her before she put it in her mouth. Blehhhh.....
Then there was poor little Aaron who was deathly afraid of Lightning. He didn't like him from the start. He stayed far, far away away from the dog making wide, wide circles to go around him. From the moment Lightning arrived, Aaron asked to go home. He didn't like that dog, he said. He clung to his parents for most of the weekend while everyone told him that he didn't have a thing to worry about because Lightning was a nice dog. Lightning was NOT a nice dog, he said.After the close of our weekend and we arrived home once again, Aaron was once again smiling. I like my home, there's NO dog, he said.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Follow That Red Suburban to Interlochen - Day 5
Day five was our day to pack up and head home. I always hate to say good-bye but I guess reality needs your presence at some point. Who would keep tourism flourishing if we didn't have any money to spend??? And who would purchase all those hats that are out there just waiting for some poor soul who doesn't want peeling skin on the top of his head from an awful sunburn that he got from being hatless....
Of course, it happen to be that EVERYONE decided to sleep in TODAY! As Bob jolted from the bed after hearing the rain and thunder beginning, he threw on his clothes and scurried outside to get the awning pulled in, the hitch on and hooked up before it decided to down pour. We managed to get packed up and ready to roll very quickly right before the clouds moved aside and the sunshine came out.....and BEFORE I had my coffee (this is never a good thing).
As we exited Interlochen State Park, we stopped to give this park a seven thumbs up plus four more. With all it's trees and beautiful park setting and being full to the brim with campers from all over, they kept it pretty clean and were pretty friendly.
Apparently, cooking pancakes wasn't going to happen so it was unanimous that we head on over to Grandma's Kitchen for some breakfast before we headed home. After quite a wait being that everyone else had the same idea on a Sunday morning, we sat down to a breakfast buffet that included scrambled eggs with cheese and ham, potatoes hashbrowned or not, sausage gravy and biscuits, french toast sticks and sausage or bacon, your choice. After eating at the Omelette Shoppe, I wasn't quite as impressed but the food was hot and the coffee was plentiful.
Towards the end of our travels, the 'I'm hungry' screams were getting louder. We ended up at Bill's request for some beef at Lucky's Steakhouse in Imlay City. Our waitress was very friendly and the food was delicious! I had a steak salad with a horseradish dressing that was absolutely fantastic. Kara's macaroni and cheese with it's homemade sauce was awesome too (I took a bit or two)! The kids ate all their chicken strips up and the ranch on the side was to their satisfaction. Bob's prime rib and Brad's rib eye were also very delicious. We give this place a seven thumbs up also!
We had a blast traveling about and exploring places we haven't seen before. We look forward to our next adventure.....stay tuned!
Of course, it happen to be that EVERYONE decided to sleep in TODAY! As Bob jolted from the bed after hearing the rain and thunder beginning, he threw on his clothes and scurried outside to get the awning pulled in, the hitch on and hooked up before it decided to down pour. We managed to get packed up and ready to roll very quickly right before the clouds moved aside and the sunshine came out.....and BEFORE I had my coffee (this is never a good thing).
As we exited Interlochen State Park, we stopped to give this park a seven thumbs up plus four more. With all it's trees and beautiful park setting and being full to the brim with campers from all over, they kept it pretty clean and were pretty friendly.
Apparently, cooking pancakes wasn't going to happen so it was unanimous that we head on over to Grandma's Kitchen for some breakfast before we headed home. After quite a wait being that everyone else had the same idea on a Sunday morning, we sat down to a breakfast buffet that included scrambled eggs with cheese and ham, potatoes hashbrowned or not, sausage gravy and biscuits, french toast sticks and sausage or bacon, your choice. After eating at the Omelette Shoppe, I wasn't quite as impressed but the food was hot and the coffee was plentiful.Towards the end of our travels, the 'I'm hungry' screams were getting louder. We ended up at Bill's request for some beef at Lucky's Steakhouse in Imlay City. Our waitress was very friendly and the food was delicious! I had a steak salad with a horseradish dressing that was absolutely fantastic. Kara's macaroni and cheese with it's homemade sauce was awesome too (I took a bit or two)! The kids ate all their chicken strips up and the ranch on the side was to their satisfaction. Bob's prime rib and Brad's rib eye were also very delicious. We give this place a seven thumbs up also!
We had a blast traveling about and exploring places we haven't seen before. We look forward to our next adventure.....stay tuned!
Follow That Red Suburban to Interlochen - Day 4
We began day four with a delicious breakfast at one of our favorite breakfast hangouts in Traverse City. The Omelette Shoppe has the best pecan rolls in the North. They also serve up some good ol' fashioned customer service. The coffee is hot and the food is Yum-o. If you should have to wait your turn to be seated, don't be surprised to be given a name like George Clooney or Bette Midler....it makes for a very fun experience when they call your name to be seated. They also have these fun signs on the wall that are worth a look-see. My favorite is: There will be a $5 charge for WHINING! I need this for my own home :-) Being the tourists that we are and so being impressed with this establishment and wanting to promote the community, my darling husband bought paraphernalia which included another HAT to add to his growing collection and a coffee mug! We give this place a definite seven thumbs up!
As we pulled out of the parking lot and came to the stop light, there were a bunch of girls on the side of the road from the swim team promoting their car wash. We decided to let them wash our cars. It was pretty funny watching the giggle gang try to wash a car. Did they notice there was a roof or maybe that was way too high up there, I'm not sure. But overall, they did a pretty good job.
As we were headed back home, we decided to stop at TC-RV to see if they had a good price on a tote hauler which is these cute little blue tote's that you can dump your waste into and take it over manually to the dump station. It beats having a nasty backup and if you should say...be stuck in a certain site between lots and lots of trees and not want to move your camper for nothing, it's well worth the purchase. While we were there, we just happened to check out some fifth wheels that were nicer than my home. Some even came with a fireplace and a garden tub! Now that's what I call home away from home. After Bob starts making his millions, we'll be sure to go back and check them out!
Since it was another gorgeous day, we decided to head back out to the beach in Frankfort. But before we arrived there, we decided to stroll through the quaint little village shops. We grabbed some sandwiches from a cute little deli and headed to the beach. Bob and Bill wanted to visit the smokehouse place that offered smoked salmon. They bought some of that, some crackers, cheese and hunter sausage for a snack on the beach. Again....yum-o. I think I'm not going to be able to eat again for a week! ({{{wink-wink}}} Did I mention that Miss Kara didn't enjoy the water so much....
Karin's sister, Katie, brought these adorable little kites to fly on the beach. Karin had so much fun getting her kite to fly, she spent most of the time doing that until Bill and little Jeremy decided she needed to get wet.
I just have to mention Henry in my blog. He is the cutest little two year old (besides my own kids) and quite fascinating to talk to. He is so funny and you should see him do his pirate face for you. It will have you in stitches. He has a few others but that one was my favorite. He, also, had a grand ol' time building sand castles and playing in the water.
Here's Henry!
After soaking in the sun and enjoying the water, we headed back home BUT....not until after we stopped for ICE CREAM! Along the way, there was this little ice cream shop called JoMo's. Bill and Karin got a turtle sundae, I got a Eskimo Kiss (Coconut ice cream with chocolate truffles and a fudge ripple) in a waffle cone, Aaron and Ryan got superman (of course!), and Grace had a soft serve dipped in sprinkles (she's my sprinkle girl) and Kara missed out, she fell fast asleep two seconds after we were in the car. We give this place a seven thumbs up!
Once back at the ranch, Bob and Bill used our newly purchased tote hauler to empty the trailer tanks. It must have just been too much because pretty soon, I get a knock on my camper door from Bill asking how pizza sounded. I think he was too bushed to think about cooking. Pizza it was so we headed off to eat at Cicero's. The service was friendly and the food was delicious. We had along with our pizza, cheese bread, wings and salad too...enough to feed an army (oh, wait! We do have our own tribe). They have a piano there for customer's to use and I suppose you could say that could potentially be fun or perhaps annoying depending on whether your three year old is playing it or a nine year old boy who came to dine from another party and played like an expert pianist. Apparently, he's been studying music since he was three and was up from Texas at a music camp that is being held there in Interlochen. Simply amazing!
As we pulled out of the parking lot and came to the stop light, there were a bunch of girls on the side of the road from the swim team promoting their car wash. We decided to let them wash our cars. It was pretty funny watching the giggle gang try to wash a car. Did they notice there was a roof or maybe that was way too high up there, I'm not sure. But overall, they did a pretty good job.
As we were headed back home, we decided to stop at TC-RV to see if they had a good price on a tote hauler which is these cute little blue tote's that you can dump your waste into and take it over manually to the dump station. It beats having a nasty backup and if you should say...be stuck in a certain site between lots and lots of trees and not want to move your camper for nothing, it's well worth the purchase. While we were there, we just happened to check out some fifth wheels that were nicer than my home. Some even came with a fireplace and a garden tub! Now that's what I call home away from home. After Bob starts making his millions, we'll be sure to go back and check them out!
Since it was another gorgeous day, we decided to head back out to the beach in Frankfort. But before we arrived there, we decided to stroll through the quaint little village shops. We grabbed some sandwiches from a cute little deli and headed to the beach. Bob and Bill wanted to visit the smokehouse place that offered smoked salmon. They bought some of that, some crackers, cheese and hunter sausage for a snack on the beach. Again....yum-o. I think I'm not going to be able to eat again for a week! ({{{wink-wink}}} Did I mention that Miss Kara didn't enjoy the water so much....
Karin's sister, Katie, brought these adorable little kites to fly on the beach. Karin had so much fun getting her kite to fly, she spent most of the time doing that until Bill and little Jeremy decided she needed to get wet.I just have to mention Henry in my blog. He is the cutest little two year old (besides my own kids) and quite fascinating to talk to. He is so funny and you should see him do his pirate face for you. It will have you in stitches. He has a few others but that one was my favorite. He, also, had a grand ol' time building sand castles and playing in the water.
Here's Henry!After soaking in the sun and enjoying the water, we headed back home BUT....not until after we stopped for ICE CREAM! Along the way, there was this little ice cream shop called JoMo's. Bill and Karin got a turtle sundae, I got a Eskimo Kiss (Coconut ice cream with chocolate truffles and a fudge ripple) in a waffle cone, Aaron and Ryan got superman (of course!), and Grace had a soft serve dipped in sprinkles (she's my sprinkle girl) and Kara missed out, she fell fast asleep two seconds after we were in the car. We give this place a seven thumbs up!
Once back at the ranch, Bob and Bill used our newly purchased tote hauler to empty the trailer tanks. It must have just been too much because pretty soon, I get a knock on my camper door from Bill asking how pizza sounded. I think he was too bushed to think about cooking. Pizza it was so we headed off to eat at Cicero's. The service was friendly and the food was delicious. We had along with our pizza, cheese bread, wings and salad too...enough to feed an army (oh, wait! We do have our own tribe). They have a piano there for customer's to use and I suppose you could say that could potentially be fun or perhaps annoying depending on whether your three year old is playing it or a nine year old boy who came to dine from another party and played like an expert pianist. Apparently, he's been studying music since he was three and was up from Texas at a music camp that is being held there in Interlochen. Simply amazing!
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Follow That Red Suburban to Interlochen - Day 3
Today was my day to make breakfast. I made cinnamon french toast and Bill cooked the sausages. I had the coffee but he had the syrup. So finally after the last piece of toast was cooked, I meandered over to their camp site to have syrup on my french toast, sausage on my plate and a place to sit to drink my coffee and enjoy the rest of the morning. There is nothing like eating breakfast outside in the morning while the dew is still in the air and the smell of the campfire is still lingering about.
We decided to get our showers and head off to Friske Farms where Bob and I had discovered this wonderful creamed cherry pecan honey on our trip last year. We wanted to share this cute little farm with it's kid maze and playhouse shaped ark with our friends. I cleaned up the breakfast dishes and got the kids ready to go while Bob got his shower. Then it was my turn. There was quite a line for the public showers and I don't generally enjoy using them. That is why I was ecstatic to have a shower in our camper. As I'm looking out the sunroof that happens to be over the shower, I was thanking God for yet another beautiful day that was ahead of us. I was up to my head in lather when all of the sudden, no water was coming out the shower head or the faucet. Apparently, the fresh water tank did NOT get filled with it's full capacity of 40 gallons and being the wonderful wife that I am even if it was unknown at the time, let my husband have a wonderfully cleansing shower before me leaving him rinsed from head to toe. I began to wonder as the itching and stinging began to set in, how many people outside of our camper and along the way to the public restroom (provided there was one free and not a line) would notice a half crazed, lathered up women running down to the showers to get thoroughly rinsed. Then I thought, so far in the three days we've been camping, we have enough material to write a sequel to the movie that Robin Williams was in entitled, RV!
Thank goodness my husband happened to come into the camper and I yelled for him to give me bottles of water. The question of the day was.....just how many bottles of Ice Mountain does it take to rinse the shampoo from your hair and caress soap from your body? That will remain unanswered until the day I die and be sealed in the vault where they hold the answer to how many licks does it take to get to the tootsie pop. As I was squealing from the coldness of the water being poured over my head, I could hear the hysterical laugher coming from my loving husband. I will forever be known as Aqua woman by some.
After the laughter had died down and the jokes came to a slow down, we headed off to Friske Farms. It's a quaint little orchard with many condiments available for your purchase made with cherries. We highly recommend the milk chocolate covered dried cherries and the creamed cherry pecan honey. The kids fed the goats, played in the ark, ran through the maze and sat on a tractor.
On the way back we stopped at the Grand Traverse Bay beach which wasn't as nice as the one in Frankfort. The kids played in the water and some of them even fed the seagulls. On our way, back to our camp site, Bob decided to stop and purchase some hose to run from our camper to the fresh water hook up since we were only about 150-200 feet from it. There was NO WAY we were going to pull the camper around to fill and dump and then try and get that sucker back in there. That would have been an all night event and another thing for the experienced campers sitting around their campfires watching all us newbie campers to get a big ol' hee haw about.
People were laughing and making jokes as we strung one hose to the next to try to stretch it all the way to where it needed to go but we just didn't buy enough hose. Bob was determined. He set off once again to the store to purchase yet some more hose. We finally had enough to reach and began filling up our tank. Then, here comes Mr. Park Ranger in his little jeep and scolding voice. You can't do that, sir. People could trip and that would just be no good. At least, he let us finish up and left with the assurance we would never do that again. However, as we were headed to unhook the hose from the filling station, other campers along the way were asking us to fill their tanks too. Why not? And that's what we did. You got to get your use of the zillion dollar hose purchase....I suppose you can't take it back after you use it???
We decided to get our showers and head off to Friske Farms where Bob and I had discovered this wonderful creamed cherry pecan honey on our trip last year. We wanted to share this cute little farm with it's kid maze and playhouse shaped ark with our friends. I cleaned up the breakfast dishes and got the kids ready to go while Bob got his shower. Then it was my turn. There was quite a line for the public showers and I don't generally enjoy using them. That is why I was ecstatic to have a shower in our camper. As I'm looking out the sunroof that happens to be over the shower, I was thanking God for yet another beautiful day that was ahead of us. I was up to my head in lather when all of the sudden, no water was coming out the shower head or the faucet. Apparently, the fresh water tank did NOT get filled with it's full capacity of 40 gallons and being the wonderful wife that I am even if it was unknown at the time, let my husband have a wonderfully cleansing shower before me leaving him rinsed from head to toe. I began to wonder as the itching and stinging began to set in, how many people outside of our camper and along the way to the public restroom (provided there was one free and not a line) would notice a half crazed, lathered up women running down to the showers to get thoroughly rinsed. Then I thought, so far in the three days we've been camping, we have enough material to write a sequel to the movie that Robin Williams was in entitled, RV!
Thank goodness my husband happened to come into the camper and I yelled for him to give me bottles of water. The question of the day was.....just how many bottles of Ice Mountain does it take to rinse the shampoo from your hair and caress soap from your body? That will remain unanswered until the day I die and be sealed in the vault where they hold the answer to how many licks does it take to get to the tootsie pop. As I was squealing from the coldness of the water being poured over my head, I could hear the hysterical laugher coming from my loving husband. I will forever be known as Aqua woman by some.
After the laughter had died down and the jokes came to a slow down, we headed off to Friske Farms. It's a quaint little orchard with many condiments available for your purchase made with cherries. We highly recommend the milk chocolate covered dried cherries and the creamed cherry pecan honey. The kids fed the goats, played in the ark, ran through the maze and sat on a tractor.
On the way back we stopped at the Grand Traverse Bay beach which wasn't as nice as the one in Frankfort. The kids played in the water and some of them even fed the seagulls. On our way, back to our camp site, Bob decided to stop and purchase some hose to run from our camper to the fresh water hook up since we were only about 150-200 feet from it. There was NO WAY we were going to pull the camper around to fill and dump and then try and get that sucker back in there. That would have been an all night event and another thing for the experienced campers sitting around their campfires watching all us newbie campers to get a big ol' hee haw about.People were laughing and making jokes as we strung one hose to the next to try to stretch it all the way to where it needed to go but we just didn't buy enough hose. Bob was determined. He set off once again to the store to purchase yet some more hose. We finally had enough to reach and began filling up our tank. Then, here comes Mr. Park Ranger in his little jeep and scolding voice. You can't do that, sir. People could trip and that would just be no good. At least, he let us finish up and left with the assurance we would never do that again. However, as we were headed to unhook the hose from the filling station, other campers along the way were asking us to fill their tanks too. Why not? And that's what we did. You got to get your use of the zillion dollar hose purchase....I suppose you can't take it back after you use it???
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