Holiday Travels

begin today. I am not a very good traveller, I admit. I am such a home body and prefer to be in my own house. Could be something to do with the fact that I don't sleep well away from home. I digress though. I am not sure as usual how much I will be able to post if at all while I am away. I wanted to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Have a blessed day, week and holiday! Remember the reason for the season!

And another one falls...

And another one falls. Another one bites the dust.

After keeping Ainsley home on Monday and thinking we were in the clear, Aidan came home from swim class after having been sick in the car. Oh well, Monday night he went to bed and mostly slept the bug off, but unfortunately I had to keep him home from school on Tuesday and he missed his Christmas concert. He was very disappointed. Even if he would have been well enough to go to school that day, I would not have been well enough to go see him. In the wee hours of Tuesday morning, I found myself ill as well. B was gracious enough to call the school to let them know Aidan would not be in and also call the dental office to cancel my appointment for that morning. He also took Ainsley to school picked her up and ran other miscellaneous have to do errands for me. I am paring down what was going to be done before Friday to be ready for our trip. Teacher treats/gifts became gift cards to a local coffee shop, gifts for the family will go unwrapped and I will wrap them when we arrive, etc. Tomorrow I have to run a few errands for trip snacks and other essentials. Today I will take it easy and maybe shuffle a load of laundry or two and do a bit of packing. I did send Aidan to school today but he wasn't very enthusiastic about going. I am wondering if he is embarrassed that he missed the concert. I told him that being sick is something that just happens and that no one is going to fault him for it. They would probably be very happy that he stayed home so as not to pass things around further. I am still thankful that all of this happened early in the week instead of later when we were wanting to hit the road. Well, just praying that my hubby continues to stay well. As usual when something like this happens, he manages to miss the worst of the symptoms. Don't know how he manages that. All is well now at least and the bug, as nasty as it was, passed quickly. Have a blessed day everyone!

Little Girly Sick Day...

What started out to be a fun and productive weekend ended in a bit of a disaster. Saturday afternoon we headed to a health department flu clinic to get the kids the H1N1 flu vaccination. Apparently guidelines had changed once again so B and I were able to get vaccinated as well. The rest of the afternoon went well, we had lunch, stopped by an office supply store to price some items and went to get the boys haircuts. The kids were put to bed and later I went up to get ready. That is when I hear a door open. This is an odd as my children rarely get up in the night. Ainsley came to the bathroom to tell me she was sick. We spent the rest of the night getting sick and cleaning up. Thankfully after the first incident she was able to make it to her bucket or to the bathroom. Lots of laundry later, she is better but still feeling kind of puny today. Sunday we had all kinds of plans, working church nursery, attending services, and getting together with friends before our holiday travels. All had to be cancelled. Even though she was feeling so poorly, the day ended up being a much needed restful day for all. I kept her home from school today as she is still feeling puny and not yet eating much. She is drinking plenty of diluted juices and water so she is staying hydrated. She is on the mend and hopefully I can send her to school tomorrow. I really think that this is not a virus and a reaction to the flu vaccination simply because the rest of the family has not fallen ill. In the past, when someone has a stomach bug the rest of the family will fall rather quickly. Anyway, an exciting end to our weekend. I have tons to do this week to get ready for our trip so I do not have the time to be ill! I am thankful however that this happened now as opposed to Thursday or Friday. That is it for now as I listen to to tunes of Sesame Street and smell cookies baking. Trying to get as much as possible done to day just in case! Blessings everyone!

Snow Day 2009

Tuesday night the weather reports were terrible. 14-16 inches of snow predicted for the lakeshore (actually the report changed based on whose news I had on at the time). I must say when I hear reports like that I tend to panic. I do not handle large amounts of snow well and I don't like to be out and about in it. I am fine as long as I get to say home. I had plenty scheduled for Wednesday as well...helping in Ainsley's class, picking up Aidan, heading to flu clinic and soccer class at the Y. Needless to say, none of this happened yesterday. School was cancelled Tuesday night and with that pretty much everything else on the schedule for Wednesday. I enjoyed sleeping in a bit, not much as my hubby overslept because our power had gone out over night. Thankfully, it was back on at this time...my hubby is lucky that I am a light sleeper. The kids were excited about the snow and happy to have a slow morning. We watched some movies, the kids had some computer time, they helped me make some treats, and we played/worked in the snow. A fun day was had by all.

Snuggled in...
Floor picnic lunch...now why is it so much more fun to eat lunch on the floor?

Nanook of the north...

and his sister...Nanette of the North.

I think the official total for our area is 8 inches of snow, but I understand that there was difficulty getting a measurement because of the high winds we had. Today is very cold, but I am thankful for the sunshine that just seems to make the cold more bearable. Well, I am off to upload more photos. I am very behind on getting Christmas cards ordered. Need to do it today! That is my goal anyway and also the last thing on my list of must do's at home today. Have a blessed day everyone!

Spicy...

I have an easy recipe that I use to make some spicy shredding chicken that I add to quesadillas or make nachos. Because of my healthier eating trend, I have been avoiding making this because I am not eating as much cheese (can I say how much I love and miss cheese!). Anyway, back to last night...I prepared the chicken and made nachos for the hubby, quesadillas for the kids. I had the chicken on salad and some of my guacamole. I was disappointed in my meal, but I saw my hubby go back for seconds and just filled a tortilla with the chicken, added cheese and guacamole. Now why did I not think of that! The tortillas I have are high fiber and that would have been so much tastier than the salad even without the cheese. Now I know better.

To prepare the chicken, place 2-4 thawed chicken breasts in the crock pot and cover chicken in salsa. I tend to use the medium or hot variety for spicier chicken. Then cook for 3-4 hours on high until done. Then shred the chicken and mix in with the remaining sauce in the pot. I think this would also be tasty as an enchilada filling, but I have not tried it as yet. Easy peasy Mexican style dinner!

Have a great weekend all!

First Snow

My children were so excited this morning to see the first smattering of snow of the season. I sent boots and snow pants to school just in case because I would never hear the end of it this afternoon if it turns out that they needed them. When we were saying our morning prayers in the car on the way to school, the kids even added, "and Thank you God for the snow!" Very cute! I never have added some photos I took of the kids playing in the leaves when we helped rake the neighbors leaves. They had a blast and did something nice for our sweet neighbor. Hopefully I will get them up soon. We finally made the switch to a new computer and I can't find much at the moment. Soon soon I will get my act together. I keep saying that. Busy week again this week as both kids have had dental appointments on top of other stresses this week. Making some final scheduling preparations for our trip south for Christmas. I am trying to appease the 2 men in my life, husband and son, and failing miserably. My son is not happy about taking off 2 days from school to have a 2 full weeks down south and my husband wants to leave even a day earlier. I am trying to appease by saying that we can get started on the drive right after school on Friday to get ourselves on our way. Not sure that is going to fly either. Oh well, I am trying. Have a good weekend everyone if I don't get the chance to say so tomorrow. My hubs is taking the day off to spend some time with me, well and Ainsley too as she is off from school as well. Celebrating a big day...not a milestone, but I am not going to say exactly how much either. Is that vague enough for you?

50 Things I can be Thankful for this Thanksgiving...

This is something we worked on as a family yesterday after breakfast. It is in some cases easy to guess who is thankful for what...

1. Food
2. Shelter
3. Clothing
4. Mommy
5. Daddy
6. Aidan
7. Ainsley
8. Trees and sticks
9. Pilly
10. Rain
11. Flowers
12. Special Turkey Dinners
13. Peanut Butter Sandwiches
14. Friends
15. Football
16. Books
17. Playstation
18. Enthusiasm
19. Coffee
20. Warm Showers
21. God
22. TP
23. Abuela
24. Tadcu
25. Nana
26. Grandpa
27. Aunt D
28. Titi M
29. Uncle J
30. Titi Mini
31. Uncle T
32. Bis abuela
33. Great Grandpa
34. Cousins
35. Baby cousin
36. Snow
37. Sunshine
38. Warm coats
39. Christmas concerts
40. Bedtime
41. Dresses
42. Video games
43. Alex
44. Stuffed toys
45. Orange juice and ice cream
46. Bible
47. Quilts
48. Daddy's job
49. Princesses
50. Quiet time

Happy Thanksgiving!

Wishing all my readers, regular and those passing through, a Happy Thanksgiving holiday. Wishing you all many blessings!

Coughing...

both my children are coughing again. Ainsley started running a fever last night so I kept her home from school this morning. She has no fever this morning either but because the school recommends that there be no fever for 24 hours she is home. I have been second guessing myself...I know they just have colds, but I called the pediatricians office to double check. The nurse said it is not flu and just to keep an eye on her, push fluids, and don't be surprised if the fever comes back this afternoon. Aidan's teacher is once again giving him the 3rd degree about if he has fever and what medicines he has been taking. If I kept him home for every cold, he would miss school weeks at a time! This whole flu thing is driving me crazy. We are using our best precautions. The kids had the seasonal flu vaccine, but no H1N1 vaccines have been available. Frustrating.

Now that I am done whining...

I should know better to post about my run until the Advil kicks in! I am going to keep trying for a few more weeks and see how things improve. After talking more with my hubs last night he suggested I just go to the gym and use the elliptical since there is no impact. I would but the point was to do a 5K together sometime next year. Not sure if that will happen, but I will try to persevere!

This morning the ladies bible study groups from church got together to pack boxes for Operation Christmas child. I wasn't going to go initially because I have so much going on but decided to go at the last minute. I should know better and just plan on going every year because I had such a good, uplifting time. Samaritans Purse is a wonderful organization, so if you are interested, check them out.

Short post today, but I had to redeem myself for the whining of yesterday. Thanks for all your kind words and prayers my dear readers.

Ow, Ow, Owwww!

My legs hurt. Running, seriously, what was I thinking! Does this get better? Is it even worth it. Walking or biking is so much easier on my joints! I want to quit and my hubby tells me not to get discouraged. I am very discouraged.

Running...

in my life right now I am surrounded by runners. Local friends, old friends from home, old school friends...all runners. I am more of a cyclist. I love to ride my bike especially my new Trek bike which is not so new any more, but I still feel as if it is new. I love to ride up the lakeshore trail to the beach in the next town and back. Not sure what the actual mileage is, but something I will have to check on one of these days. As the weather turned cold and wet in October and dealing with the first illness of the fall, I fell of my exercise train. Today I got back on with a new activity. With the help of the schedule on a website for runners, I started my first run today alternating walking/running for short increments. So far, I feel good. Lets see how my legs feel tonight/tomorrow. Of course I would pick the coldest morning thus far this fall to start this new activity, so I may have to get myself into the gym sooner than I had planned. We will see.


On another note, I was sent a permission slip home from school for Aidan to start further testing in math. To my understanding right now, his teacher has had him working on 3rd grade work. Conferences are next week so I will find out in more detail what exactly they are testing him for. That boy of mine is on fire for math right now. He wants to know all about algebra and geometry. I must make a confession. I was awful at geometry! I loved all other math but that! We will cross that bridge when we come to it though. Who knows, maybe I could actually learn it this time around. My brain does not work the proof well. I just don't get it. Ahh well, off to take a quick shower and work on bible study and housework. Off to another busy day!

Photos...

that I keep forgetting that I wanted to post, but I have been so busy with "stuff" that I keep forgetting. It has been a shamefully long time since I have visited family in Philadelphia. One of the benefits of our potential move to the Cleveland area this summer was that I would be closer to them to visit more easily. We need to plan a family trip. My husband would love all the history here considering the history buff that he is.

Below is William Penn gracing the top of City Hall. The main City Hall building. I had forgotten how architectually beautiful the city is.

The old pipe organ in the Wannamaker building. Now the building houses a Macy's.

Meet you at the eagle. Apparently if this was said everyone knew what you were talking about and where to go. Too bad my photographer cut off the head of the eagle. This was also in the Wannamaker building.

Rittenhouse square. They had a really nice farmer's market on Saturday morning. If we would have had a refrigerator, I would have bought some really nice cheese and bread. Oh they smelled so nice!

And of course last but not least, Ainsley's fall party farmer get up. Love her in pigtails. She is so stinkin' cute! She knows it too which is going to bring me trouble as she grows up.

Well, everyone have a good weekend. Mine is going to be super busy. No rest for the weary I guess. I really would like to get off this train! It has been so bad, I almost dozed off in the hair stylist's chair yesterday. How sad is that! I need a day like last week to rest and recoup. Not happening until next Saturday at the earliest. Ah well, later taters!

Crazy...

sometimes the days are just mayhem around here. I just feel like I keep adding to my list and forgetting too many other things. Yesterday I was feeling caught up and then I realized all I had to do today. Things I forgot to mail, people I forgot to call, appointments I forgot that I had. Ugh! What happened to my brains? Don't answer that. I am afraid what people who know me might say. One day I will get there...

Praise!

My sister's amnio results all came back normal. So far so good for a healthy baby due at the end of March! Whoo-hoo! Praise God!

Happy Halloween!

Madeleine and Indiana Jones hope you had a safe and...

candy filled day! (Can you believe it? I actually posted a picture with me in it. What can I say, I was having a good hair day. Heehee!)

Long week coming to a close...

it has been a busy one around here. The kids and I had yesterday to catch up. Mondays and Tuesdays are busy for me, running errands, voluteering at church, bible study, and piles of laundry from the previous week. This week has also had "fall" events for both kids at school. This year Aidan was able to go to his schools Masquerade hosted by the PTO. Everything is donated by the parents except for the use of the school space. They had 160 students attend this year and I donated muffins for Aidan's class so I was baking well into the evening on Tuesday. Ainsley had a party as well as her class was celebrating harvest so it was requested that the kids be dressed in farm related costume. Ainsley went as a farmer which was easy because she wore one of Aidan's old plaid shirts, a pair of jeans, she took a cowboy hat from an old costume, and pig tails. She looked so darn cute in pig tails! I will post those pictures tomorrow as part of a halloween post. All I had to provide for her class was cheese slices so that was easy. Both kids have Thursday and Friday off. Yesterday was spent playing Sorry, and Aggieopoly (a verision of Monopoly based on my University) as well as play doh. Both children were gracious enough to spend their hour of computer time together so that I could catch up on some household work I was behind on. I need to revamp my cleaning schedule...I am trying to do too much on Wednesdays which causes problems if I need to do extra shopping for the week. Trying to be organized and not always working. I have gotten back on the ball with some creative projects this week as well. Bible study is excellent too. I am loving this study of the tabernacle and I have also been much improved in daily committing to my devotional time. I have been successful since 8/8/2009 so I am praying this trend continues. B had a busy week entertaining out of town guests so we did not see much of him. Realizing that the kids had off today he decided to take off as well so we are all thrilled. Of course he wants to head over to the big town today to take the kids to the cheesy place if you get get my meaning. Hopefully not to eat but maybe just to play a few games. Ahh well, tomorrow is Halloween which is always a busy place on my street. I am always shocked an amazed at how many people show up for trick or treating. I did get some joke cards from my church to hand out with candy this year. I was originally thinking the weather was supposed to be terrible which would keep the crowds away this year. It seems however that the storms are supposed to be done by then so I probably should have asked for more cards. Anyway, enough nonsense. I hope everyone is having a good week!

Enjoying Letters from the Principal...

My Aidan was estatic yesterday after I let him read a letter we got in the mail from the school. He was excited that he earned this so early in the year. I told him though that this did not mean that he could slack on his good behavior. He is doing so well this school year. Academically, I don't worry about him, but after all the trouble we had with another student last year I had my concerns about public school. Once again Aidan is working by himself with his teacher in reading and math and is on the talented watch list. The other student is in the class next door so our behavior issues have resolved themselves. Aidan just needed some space from this kid hopefully only until there is a bit more maturity on both sides of this relationship. Celebration in our house last night! So proud of him!

Fall Color Catch Up...

We are all on the mend in our household. The kids have some residual cough and runny nose, but not enough to keep them out of school. Mommy is better as well, but I still feel as if I have cotton stuffed in my one ear. Hopefully I will be hearing fully soon. I had to include some of my annual pictures of our local fall color. These are two of my favorite trees around our house. I love the picture below the best. The red on this tree is my favorite.

I am spending the week catching up. I have some shopping to do tomorrow for some home essentials as well as some dress up clothes for a birthday party and class parties. This week is the end of flag football. Aidan is also very excited because he also moved up a level in swim class. He has practiced and worked so hard. I am very proud of him. Ainsley needs some work on floating on her a back. Otherwise, her swimming class is the highlight of her week. I love to see her smile as she learns with her teachers. So very cute. They start their new classes after having a week off. Well, it is getting late, and I am tired. I have spent my evening playing catch-up this evening instead of working on my more creative projects. Ahh well, what can you do when you take a week off for sickness.

It just keeps getting better...

Yesterday evening, I headed over to our walk-in clinic. After being miserable most of the day and knowing that the crud has progressed beyond the usual crud, my husband talked me into going to the doctor right then instead of waiting until the morning. Glad I went! Apparently, I have a "wicked", to use the Drs. words, ear infection. Antibiotics in my system last night and hopefully on my way to wellness. Now I know how Aidan felt when we went through 3 months of clogged ears prior to tubes, tonsillectomy and andenoidectomy. Seriously annoying to feel like something is stuck in your ears!

Pray for my sis today. She is back in the states and having her amino done. She should get some definitive results in 24 hours. She told my Mom that at this point the bell has been rung and now she wants to know more certainly what is going on. My Mom is going with her as JP is in Singapore on a business trip. I am also praying that my Mom doesn't stress M out either. Anyway, that is the news for today. I am headed to veg in front of the tv because I can't seem to concentrate on any of my reading. Minimal housework today too just some laundry shuffle. My house is so trashed! I just can't do it right now though. I must get well. Housekeeping can wait.

Sick...

We have been sick in this house. Thursday evening Aidan started with a runny nose, scratchy throat. By Friday morning he had a nasty cough. Friday was a half day of school so even though he did not have any fever I decided to keep him home. Friday was also the day that I headed out of town. I had a great time by the way but I will talk more about that in another post when I can add some photos. Saturday night was my cousin's wedding and during the reception I started feeling pretty lousy. I did not sleep well that night due to scratchy throat and in the morning I seemed to be coming down with what Aidan had. I flew home on Sunday and came home to find Aidan still coughing but otherwise much improved. Monday morning I sent him to school since he was so much better. The teacher asked him why he missed school on Friday and he explained about his cold/cough and he told her he had a slight fever on Friday. Not sure why he added that bit because we checked him several times and he was fine. So, she decided to take his temperature in class. He had no fever and she did not send him home, but I guess in these days of this swine flu scare the teachers are not trusting parents judgement as far as their children's health. I know that this illness that we have had is not the flu and only a cold because there was no fever involved. Once we get better I am scheduling to take everyone in for the flu vaccinations, I would just like to shake the crud first. I have been grateful that we had a healthy summer, but here we go back in school for a month and a half and we already have our first illness. Ahh well here we go again. We will be better soon. Anyone have any tried and true cold remedies? My husband swears by Airborne. I am not sure if I totally believe that it works, but I started taking some when I got back on Sunday. The kids are getting their regular multi-vitamin and some extra vitamin C and that seems to be helping them. I really detest taking cold medicine because it always seems to make me feel worse. Afrin nasal spray works well but it is not recommended for use more than 2-3 days so I am very cautious about how much I use it. Saline nasal spray and hot water gargles are also helpful for the scratchy throat. Maybe, I just need to break down and buy a 3rd humidifier that way we have one in each bedroom. I have one for each of the kids and it seems to help them, but don't have one in my room. Well, like I asked, any other tried and true cold remedies? I am interested to hear what others do.

Nervous Wreck...

at least trying not to be one. I am flying out to Philly tomorrow and I am a nervous flier. Usually when I travel with my children the nerves don't hit me too much. Once we get through security and get shoes and bags back together, travelling is smooth sailing. The kids and my husband are there to keep me distracted from all the noises and bumps during the flight. Tomorrow I am travelling by myself for the first time in a long time. I am taking plenty of reading material and even loaded a couple of grown-up movies on my iPod. What I had on there before is Sesame Street and Cinderella for Miss Ainsley to watch when we travelled to Texas this summer. Praying for me! Once I arrive we are going to be fairly busy. I am arriving late to a family dinner with my extended family not participating in rehearsals. Saturday evening is the wedding, and Sunday morning is a post-wedding brunch from which I leave early to catch my return flight. I am sure when I arrive something will be planned for Saturday afternoon for the same family group from Friday night. I am finally going to get to enjoy some family time with my Pennsylvania relatives. Lots of water under that bridge from the generation before mine. Anyway, this will be a good experience and hopefully fun. The kids are staying home with the hubs and I think if the weather cooperates they are going to the pumpkin patch. So far Ainsley has been a little upset with me, but it is a short trip and as long as she has Daddy she will be fine. Aidan I am not worried about. He isn't thrilled with me leaving, but he doesn't seem to mind too much either. Ahh well, they will be fine. It is me I am a bit worried about. Later taters! Have a great weekend.

Bible Study...

I am so enjoying my bible study for this fall! We are covering Beth Moore's A Woman's Heart God's Dwelling Place. I never realized how much I would enjoy studying the Old Testament. Anyway, this is a little tidbit from my homework for this morning referring back to 2Timothy 1:6-8. "Power is up to God. Participation is up to us."

How true is that! We can't recieve God's blessings for us unless we make the choice to follow and accept. Also, I will add this tidbit from a few weeks ago relating to the same idea. "I finally understood the nature of God's mercy and grace. They are always there, available every day, prior to our need, and in direct proportion to every moment's demand; but we must gather them. That part is completely our responsibility."

Love that. Sorry folks, just was very excited about study this morning and just had to share. Later!

Prayers...

for my sister please. I don't know how much detail she would wish me to share with the world so I won't go into detail here. Close friends of mine please be expecting an e-mail from me. That is all I am going to post for now so cover her in prayer please!

Why is it...

that the start of the school year always comes with some behavior issues for us. Seriously I am tired of this mess. Aidan really struggles with one classmate. They are in different classes this year and Aidan has finally realized, "I don't know what I thought was so special, I don't like him very much because he isn't nice to me." Well, this realization brought on "I am not going to be nice either" which prompted the child's mother to speak to me when the child complained to her because his feelings were hurt. After much discussion, Aidan has realized his mistakes and is making an apology to the child today. He has also punished himself by taking away his computer/tv priviledges for a week. This child is very hard on himself. Too much like his Mama in some ways. Anyway, we did have the conversation again which included, "You do not have to be friends with this child, but you do have to be nice to him even if he is not being nice to you. Also, if he is hurting you in some way you need to tell an adult." I seriously detest school sometimes. It brings home all kinds of issues we don't typically have.

I am so glad it is Friday. I am tried and frazzled. I have been invited to Girl's Night Out on Saturday. Not sure where we are going yet, but I am looking forward to some girlfriend time. Trying to juggle to many things right now and I don't feel as if I am doing anything well. Things are starting to slip through the cracks. I don't know how to fix it either. Too much on my plate some days. No more pity party for me. Moving on.

Have a great weekend everyone. I think ours is going to be wet and cold weather wise, but hopefully we can get some fun stuff going on here at home. Later taters!

Catching up on Aidan

Can you see?

This picture shows a little better. Aidan lost another tooth. Aidan has been losing about 1 tooth a month since this whole thing started. After being the only first grader who had not lost a tooth, second grade is quickly becoming the great equalizer. I wish I could capture his more natural smile on camera. He looks rather cute all snaggly. His other top tooth is loose as well so I am fairly certain it will go quickly too.

Flag football is in full swing. Every Tuesday and Thursday for the next month and a half we head back up to school after homework is done. Yesterday we were rained out and I was grateful. Since school started my weeks have been busy once again. B wants me to use some of my free time in the mornings while Ainsley is at school to work out at the Y. I would love to but I need to get somethings taken care of at home first. Painting some trim work and catching up on things. I will get there one day!

This morning was rather exciting around here. I was sitting quietly at my computer catching up on e-mail when I hear and explosion outside. My dog was out so she was at the door freaking out when I went to investigate. No smoke no people running around no power. Apparently a transformer blew, at least that is what I heard about 10 minutes later when the utility people showed up. I tell you that transformer going was loud. So far I can't get the dog to go back outside. Ahh well, I hope everyone is having a great week so far. It is Wednesday already and I am so far behind. I will figure this out eventually really.

Sputnik Fest

Last weekend we went to our town's Sputnik Fest. Apparently,47 years ago a piece of Sputnik was found in town in front of what is now an art museum. I have no idea what the building was then. Anyway, a group has now decided to commemorate the event with a festival. Now, I am all for a good festival, but this is a bit silly to me with how it is advertised. Aliens were everywhere. Now tell me what do aliens have to do with Sputnik? I do understand that inside the museum was a very nice display which I hope gave some history as to what Sputnik really was. We did not go inside because my Ainsley was scared of a costumed woman sitting near the door.

This is actually a sculpture outside the museum that was modified for the event.

Of course, my children's (and hubby's) favorite Star Wars characters were also on hand. I thought Ainsley would want to see Princess Leia, but no she was all over Obi-Wan Kenobi.

Aidan was impressed with the Gramorian Guard(sp?). He even had fake drool. I think Aidan really liked the gross out factor because Ainsley would not go near this guy.

Of course, no Star Wars character set is complete without some storm troopers.

My little aliens. Aidan was not too happy in this shot for some reason. Actually, besides all the silliness it was a nice family friendly even. Lots of vendors selling their wares, a local ice cream shop was on hand selling frozen treats, and $1 got the kids 2 rides on a bounce house slide. We ran in to many friends and acquantances as well so a fun day was had by all.


If I don't get to post again, I hope everyone has a good weekend. A neighbor just stopped by to invite Ainsley to a birthday party tomorrow. She made some apologies because it was a class party, but the little girl had invited Ainsley verbally. We already had plans to head to a nearby town so B could do some shopping he needed to do tomorrow, so now I am not sure what to do. We will most likely continue with out plans, but now I feel badly. Oh well. I can't be everywhere and I was looking forward to possibly seeing Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs. The children's book this is loosely based on is amazing and a favorite in our house. Have a good weekend everyone!

ETA: By the way... I have finally been given permission to tell some great news. I am going to be an Auntie! A real Auntie!

Kites over Lake Michigan

Once again I am very behind in my posting. I have sat down several times to post and something always seems to get in the way. In this post I am back-tracking a bit and posting some photos of the Kite festival here in town on Labor Day weekend. My SIL was visiting that weekend and the weather was perfect even though they were a bit short on wind. The large kites had trouble getting off the ground. This was the only appearance of the teddy bear as he crashed just after being photographed.

This one made it into the air later in the day as I have seen in a friends photos.

The flags had plenty of breeze and are always lovely.

Very patriotic!

They also had a candy drop which my children participated in, however I will not recommend this in the future. They dropped lollipops from a kite which landed in the sand and they children scrambled for. The organizers made sure all the children shared so no one left without candy. Needless to say, said candy was covered in sand because they were slightly buried after they were dropped. After a good rinsing, the kids enjoyed their treats.

Next up: Sputnik fest and a shared bounty.

Whew!

This has been a very long week for me. Busy was the word. My SIL was visiting this weekend, so my Monday chores (including grocery shopping) got pushed to later days in the week. By the time I was actually able to get to the store, I had no bread and no fresh fruit in the house! Bible study started and fall sports started. B is out of town as well. Next week should be better and more normal so I will get into a more steady groove.

I will have some pictures to post as well as I need to work on them a bit. Grasping our last bit of summer. After having fall like temperatures in August, we sure have warmed up quite a bit and for that I am grateful. I am starting to be ready for fall as the leaves are starting to turn. Must pull out my camera for my annual beginning of fall photo.

This week I also committed to going to my cousin's wedding in Philly in October. I should have booked a hotel months ago apparently because the locations at which they had special pricing and near the venue are booked. Either I get a place further away and rent a car, or I bunk with my parents. When I mentioned renting a car, my Mom made my decision for me. For my safety's sake (according to her), I will be bunking with my parents. Most likely that means I will sleep on the couch or on the floor, but I will deal with it. It is only 2 nights. I feel like such a loser, but oh well it is saving me some money. Air fair was very reasonable I will say. I was able to get a ticket for under $250 on Midwest. I highly recommend them as all their flights are first class style seating and they serve warm chocolate chip cookies. That was pre-recession though. Humm, hopefully they haven't changed things too much. Anyway, I am off for now and hope everyone has a lovely weekend! Later taters!

Cleaning house...

once again I am getting ready for a house guest. One of the Mom's from Aidan's class commented on how many guests we have had this summer. Actually, this year we have only had a few compared to years past. My in-laws just stayed for a long time. My SIL is coming into town sometime tonight, so I have been cleaning bathrooms, mopping floors, etc. All my weekly chores will be done in one day so I can take the rest of the week off. I am not going to get away with not vacuuming though. My dog sheds like such a beast! I vacuum every Monday, Wednesday and Friday and when we have guests and my Dyson vacuums up a squirrel every time! I am hoping for nice weather so that we can get out and about this weekend.

School went well yesterday. Aidan commented on how different his new classroom is compared to last year. I hope he adjusts well as each year will be more and more classwork and less and less play time. Ainsley had a wonderful day as well. She told me about all the fun things in class and was very disappointed that she was one of the parent pick up kids as opposed to a bus kid. I told her Mommy just enjoys spending time with you and likes picking you up. Really the thought of putting my 4 year old on the bus is horrifying! I did not let Aidan ride in Kindergarten either. Mommy hang up I suppose. If that is her only complaint then I am happy. Well, I am off to finish cleaning the upstairs bath. If I don't get another chance to post this week, Have a happy Labor day holiday weekend everyone!

First Day of School

They are happy to be back in school. Mommy is sad they are back in school. I love the relaxed schedule of summer. Soon we will be in high gear for fall. Hopefully I will have a good post to share tomorrow of all their adventures today.

Last day of summer vacation...

School starts tomorrow. We go to meet the teacher this afternoon and meet the new principal at Aidan's school. I am happy about that because the new principal goes to our church! Anyway, otherwise I am a bit sad to see them go back. Lots to do this week, B will be out entertaining, school starts tomorrow, B's sister comes in for a long Labor Day weekend visit. During her visit, B will have a few days off then heads to Michigan to conduct some interviews for a new plant manager for the Michigan plant. That week also is the start of flag football and the following week we start swimming lessons. Not sure if and when scouts is going to fit into this equation. Need to get B to make some calls about that. The school year gets us into high gear for the fall. Not sure if Mommy is ready.

A boy...

and his first fish. Enough said.

I am working on pictures yet again. I have also not had very much time to sit down and collect my thoughts. Feeling very scattered these days as we get ready for school. School starts Tuesday. Say some prayers for a good school year.

My latest creation...

I have finished my latest cross-stitch project. This pattern was originally intended to be stitched onto a sweatshirt, but I was concerned what regular washing would do to the stitching. I also had concerns about the red bleeding onto the shirt and other colors. So, I bought this little bag at Hobby Lobby and decorated it. I think it turned out pretty well. I think I am going to be a bit selfish and keep this one for myself. It will be a great little bag to tote my things to craft night or to carry my books for bible study. By the way, this project only cost me $5.50! $3.00 for the bag and $2.50 for the pattern that I found years ago in a craft store sale bin. Cute! Have a great and crafty Sunday everyone! We have a babysitter this afternoon so that B and I can head out for a date dinner. Tomorrow is our 13th anniversary! I am taking my honey to a fondue place in Appleton. I have been with some girlfriends before, but B has not been so I thought it would be a nice change of pace for us. Early evening though as he has to work in the morning. Either way it will be a nice evening I hope.

Zoo trip...

Last week Ainsley and I made our big trip for the weekend to the Milwaukee County Zoo with a good friend of mine and her family. We have been trying to plan a trip to the zoo with them all summer, but as it turns out when they were free we were busy and when we were busy they were free. Finally, I just told her that Ainsley and I were going to need an outing this weekend and if they were interested in going with just the 2 of us then we would be happy to have the company. The nice thing was they have a mini-van so we just loaded in and went. It was great to let someone else drive!

This was Ainsley's favorite animal of the day. When we came across this chimp, he was laying on this log using straw as a blanket. Ainsley thought he was the cutest and funniest thing around.

To wrap up our visit we let the kids ride on the train. The little train makes a nice loop of the zoo. The kids were all hot and tired at this point and enjoyed the ride.

Ainsley giraffe. What more can I say!

Distance makes the heart grow fonder...

I think they missed each other. What do you think? I will post more soon. I am always saying that, but I need to work on the pictures from the girls adventures we had this week. I am sure we will post some of the more memorable boys adventures as well.

Aidan is eating his "Greens"

I check my e-mail yesterday afternoon and this is what I find peering back at me. B says Aidan was eating his "vegetables". Some vegetables. Lord knows what my in-laws and hubby are feeding my child. I am definitely going to have some serious damage control to do when they get back next week. Not sure what Ainsley and I are going to do today. Ainsley has 4K orientation late this afternoon and I have to get the yard cleaned up a bit for the guys who are going to mow this week since B could not get to it before he left. I will get something on the plans this morning though. Off to watch Sesame with Ainsley.

Too quiet on the lakeshore..

I took my boys to the airport bright and early this morning. As I write this they are in a car with my in-laws and headed from Denver to Lake City Colorado. They will be gone a week. My house is already too quiet. I am used to B being away as he travels for work. I am not used to my boy being away. He will be gone until next Tuesday. I will miss them both so!

Rhonda...

B's cousin Rhonda called early early this morning to let us know she is in the hospital with appendicitis. Her friends took her to the ER last night with abdominal pain. She called because her parents went out of town yesterday and she wanted to get a hold of her Aunt and Uncle, B's parents. Unfortunately I had to tell her that they were out of town too. I gave her their phone numbers but I am not sure how much cell service they actually get where they are staying. So I made the round of calls this morning passing the message along to other family members in Texas and the hubs at his office. I feel badly that I can't do anything for her other than pray. I am asking my prayerful friends to pray along with me this morning as her surgery should be this morning before noon. One consolation I have is that her brother and his family are in town with her helping out with her children. Thanks everyone!

Our News...

Last week B went for an overnight trip to Cleveland. I was very stressed about this trip as he was headed there for a job interview. We had our concerns about potentially getting this job as it would mean more travel and later hours for my hubby. He is in a position where he is expected to show interest in higher level positions even if we are not neccessarily interested in moving. Needless to say, B did not get the job and we will be staying right where we are. I think B is a bit disappointed about not getting the job, but happy that he will get to stay in his current job as well. How torn he was makes me think that God hasn't finished with us right where we are quite yet. His current position, even though it does require travel, fits our family very well. We are very happy that we will be able to stay. Now I can continue making plans for the start of the school year! A big weight has been lifted from my shoulders.

On another note, Aidan lost his second tooth this morning. B tried to help him out a bit yesterday by tying a piece of dental floss to his tooth and pulling. Aidan bled a ton and I think it scared him so they left it alone. This morning Aidan worked it out all by himself. I am so glad because the new tooth once again already coming in. This morning he also tells me that his top teeth are loose. I think we are going to have school pictures with top teeth missing at this rate!

A week of playing catch up...

My in-laws left on Monday. I have since spent my week playing catch up and trying to get things done while my kiddos have been enjoying VBS in the mornings. B has been out of pocket most of this week. He was actually home yesterday and we spent the evening getting the boys hair cuts. Today he leaves for Cleveland for an overnight.

I will have more news to post next week I think. But for now I will leave you with some photos from our trip to the EAA Airventure Airshow we visited with the in-laws last week. The airshow is not my thing really and the kids got bored after a little while of sitting, but the most impressive thing was getting to see the new Airbus. That plane is huge and takes of at the most amazing angle I have ever seen. No need for a long runway there.

Ainsley posing for Aidan to take her picture.
The kiddos and I sharing a chair. I don't usually take the stroller for Ainsley anywhere anymore, but I am sure glad it was in the car for me to use on this day. I think we walked about 2 miles to get from parking to the actual venue. Seriously, I wasn't sure the kids were going to make it.

This picture just turned out cool. The C-5M was open while they were setting up to be towed and the other planes just happened to fly by.

Big goings on around here this week. I hope I will be able to post more info soon.

Better day and not...

a better day. Weird day really. My in-laws are watching the kids this afternoon while I get my hair cut. B talked to them about it yesterday. He also asked them to watch them one evening for a date night. Love a free babysitter. Anyway, B's ruffled feathers yesterday smoothed over by yesterday evening. He decided to take some advice of mine to be a duck. Be a duck and let things roll off your back like beads of water over duck feathers. Today he is back at work and while I am out my in-laws are taking the kids to lunch. They keep asking me to go but as I am not sure what time I will be done I can't totally commit. I will call to catch up with them when I am done.

Aidan needed to return a book to the school library this morning and Grandpa offered to drive him over there. Aidan said to him, "Grandpa it is so close, we should just walk there." I am so proud of him! My Aidan asking his Grandpa to walk somewhere is a big deal. Grandpa is not one for exercise. He does not play golf even without a golf cart. He might be exhausted when he gets back though.

The not so better part of the day is the fact that I was having auras this morning. Bad sign of a migraine to come. Not an allergy or hormone related one either. Took some Excedrin and feel the twinge but I am hoping I caught it in time. I would hate to be so sick with the in-laws here.

Baby Stellan seems to be doing a bit better this morning. I have been keeping up with mckmama's twitter account. Keep praying for that sweet little one as he seems to be headed for surgery in Boston very soon. Later everyone!

Too many things...

on my mind today. The little boy Stellan that I pray for is not doing well. Please pray for him if it comes to mind today. My husband is upset with his Dad about a situation that occurred this morning. B goes back to work so tomorrow I am alone with the in-laws except for a rescheduled hair appointment. I hate asking them to sit for the kids because it always seems like such an imposition on them. Ah me, it is Monday what can I say. B, Aidan and the rents are out playing golf this afternoon so Ainsley is headed with me to work at the church this afternoon. B is not off until Friday so the rest of this week is going to be a long one. Well I am off, things to do and people to see.

Pray pray pray!

Good things going on. Good things. I need all my prayerful friends to be praying here. I can't be anymore specific than that as it is not my story to tell. Sorry to be vague, but I will share more when I can. Thanks bunches!

Argh!

MY IN-LAWS ARE GOING TO BE HERE THIS AFTERNOON NOT TOMORROW AFTERNOON! My house is not ready! I have one of my kiddos friends coming this afternoon because the weren't supposed to be here until Friday. They called last night to say they were settled in Illinois for the night. Who comes to visit someone a day earlier than expected? I have no food ready because I was headed to the store today and the thing needs 2 days to marinate. No roast for them! I will be flexible and I will get over this. Pray for me!

Getting ready for guests...

I am spending this week getting ready for my in-laws visit this Friday. I am assuming they are on their way, but we have not heard from them to know for sure. They take a much longer time to make the trip north than we do. My poor kids have had so many invitations for activities this weekend and I have said no to almost all of them. We will make some stops by by some birthday parties to drop off gifts and that is it. I am not even certain if they will make it for dinner, but I will have something on hand just in case. B will at least have a few days off to spend some time with them so hopefully it will be a bit better than their last visit spending most of their time with me while I shuffled Aidan to school.

Not much else going on otherwise. Aidan has tremendously improved on the bike riding. The training wheels are now off and he is struggling a bit with the new method of getting started since he is no longer balancing on 4 wheels. We upgraded Ainsley to a new bike as well, a big girl bike with training wheels. She is doing very well with hers too. Her only problem is getting herself to stop with the brake or the back pedal. It will come with time. I will have to get some pictures of my improving cyclists. It has been nice having the free time to let them loose in our alleyway.

Many things coming down the pipe in the next month. In-laws, vacation bible school, B is taking Aidan to Colorado for the in-laws fishing trip, and back to school shopping. I think clothing wise they are set for a while but we will need to get supplies and Aidan a new backpack. Ahh well, much to do and I am stalling avoiding work while Ainsley eats her breakfast. I had better get to it. Later taters!

New Bathroom

This was the color I chose called Glacier Mist. It was a little darker than I anticipated. This is one coat of paint. I am pleased with how it turned out...a nice blue grey color. Put together bathroom with lighting. You can see some of my products as the medicine cabinet doors are still not done. I need to get on the hubs about that.

Put together bath with natural lighting. I have the curtain drawn so it blocks the light from the window. Typically we have a bit more natural lighting in here. Yes, that means we have a window in our shower, but I will say it is frosted glass and I have a second frosted shower curtain to keep things dry. This is just one of the many oddball things in an old house that had a bath only.

What do you think?

Bathroom remodel...

I not sure if you would actually want to call this a remodel because to me a remodel is a full gut of the area in question. Not what we were prepared to do. This is the project that B decided to work on while we were away because of the mess and dust it created. He replaced the plaster ceiling and repaired cracks in the wall plaster. He originally wanted to replace all the dry wall, vanity, and mirror/medicine cabinet combo. I had my concerns because with an old house you never know what you will find when you start removing things. All I really wanted was the repair to the ceiling and to repaint. Once again we had this red in the bathroom. This is the same red that we painted over in the bedroom last summer. This being such a small bathroom the color was very oppressive. When B started removing said mirror and medicine cabinet. He discovered what it was covering. He then abandoned the idea of replacing anything and settled for painting to freshen up. This first hole looks like it was there when the tile was originally installed. This second hole seems like it was made at some point after the initial installation. If anyone has any suggestions as to what these holes might have been at some point I would like to hear them. They are not very big and don't seem to have any plumbing in them, but they are in the sink area.

The finished product pictures are still on my camera. Hopefully I will post them for you tomorrow. B had not finished the work when we got home, so I ended up helping with the painting as he left for a business trip the Monday after we returned. I had picked out the paint for him while I was in Houston which was kind of strange. I spent a ton of time second guessing myself. In the long run though I think it turned out pretty nice. Later!