tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-196055352011-08-16T16:01:48.807-07:00About raising some kids and the grass on our side of the fence.Jerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04143552621303755045noreply@blogger.comBlogger4771100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-69219936463433711402010-02-06T17:13:00.000-08:002010-02-06T17:13:26.452-08:00

 

Jerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04143552621303755045noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-45317806541866705312009-08-14T13:09:00.001-07:002009-08-14T13:26:20.468-07:00

Well, been a while I suppose. Better get back at it, eh?Here is a funny story for you about child number two, formally known as Our Youngest (he is now Bigger Brother, and Our Eldest is Biggest Brother, BTW).We were at a gathering at a friends house who had a little patio fire pit. The kids were excited to have a fire to throw bunches of paper into. Anyway, Me and another Friend were sitting

Jerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04143552621303755045noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-74364626500897606582009-06-14T21:19:00.000-07:002009-06-14T21:20:02.223-07:00

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-48537964728993798542009-06-05T14:58:00.000-07:002009-06-05T15:19:49.006-07:00

My parents treated us to lunch and a wonderful trip to the aquarium. Afterward, we took a walk along the river and did some wading. We had a great day! Thank you mom and dad!

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-69205539265279275522009-06-01T15:06:00.000-07:002009-06-05T15:19:00.216-07:00

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-70134704463006276312009-05-28T15:17:00.000-07:002009-06-05T15:17:51.092-07:00

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-82498114255938578802009-05-25T15:10:00.000-07:002009-06-05T15:12:00.452-07:00

AW recently graduated from preschool! Here is the proof:He is absolutely thrilled to be going into kindergarten where he'll be at the same school as his big brother.

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-35008296005704672562009-04-15T09:46:00.001-07:002009-04-15T09:46:39.599-07:00

You know your house is a mess when your 6 year old's response to the possibility of cub scouts being at our house is "oh, that's bad"!

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-15094442849926987612009-04-13T16:01:00.000-07:002009-04-13T16:02:14.320-07:00

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-68434843303037717132009-03-25T08:58:00.001-07:002009-03-25T09:05:45.221-07:00

HL approaches me with: "hey Mom, did you already eat breakfast?""I did. I had a bowl of cereal.""How about we make a new rule? Every Saturday and Sunday, I will feed you breakfast in bed from now on. Is that okay?"Well, heck YES!!!He started feeding me breakfast in bed every once in a while about a year ago. While it is only cereal, he puts a lot of thought into it by choosing my favorite

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-54876815506578548902009-03-22T20:33:00.000-07:002009-03-22T20:37:00.909-07:00

About a month ago, AW asked for help in adding "Bionicles" to his big brother's wish list. I was busy at the time and had a lot on my mind; the request was quickly forgotten. Then, 30 minutes later I happened to walk by the refrigerator (on which are the boys' wish lists) and noticed a new line at the end of HL's list:"BIONICLZ"Apparently, AW was not feeling particularly patient that day and

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-83944932632407237732009-03-22T20:30:00.000-07:002009-03-22T20:31:43.336-07:00

My niece, CL, had a baby girl on Sunday 3/15. Here are the pictures of ER and CE meeting for the first time....

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-49126171441241164922009-03-22T20:25:00.000-07:002009-03-22T20:29:59.728-07:00

HL is rather enamored with his new baby brother. Every day, as soon as he gets home from school, he is running to wash his hands so he can hold ER. Last week he was sick and I think the worst part of it for him was that he couldn't hold the baby. This evening he asked to hold him, but daddy discouraged it because ER was fussy. HL's response: "I don't care if he's fussy. I still want to hold

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-60094432441062040942009-03-17T16:53:00.000-07:002009-03-17T16:54:18.621-07:00

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-30320470454946070762009-03-17T11:13:00.000-07:002009-03-17T11:15:46.751-07:00

Way back in the beginning of December, a local church presented "A Night In Bethlehem". We went expecting a simple outdoor portrayal of the stable, but were instead surprised by an indoor Bethlehem market; complete with census-taking, ROman soldiers, vendors, beggars, and (of course) the stable with Jesus!

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-49605925697559874312009-03-17T11:11:00.000-07:002009-03-17T11:12:38.238-07:00

In January, my great friend, Wendi, gave me a wonderful little friends' baby shower...

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-4414097468818816462009-03-17T11:09:00.002-07:002009-03-17T11:11:03.666-07:00

My currently uneventful life (HA!) has dictated that I not have much time for blogging. Therefore, I will just be posting a bunch of slideshows for now. Thanks for understanding!

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-69480683596405638352009-03-17T11:09:00.001-07:002009-03-17T11:12:54.280-07:00

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-6511755448263874742009-03-17T11:07:00.000-07:002009-03-17T11:08:13.795-07:00

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-72569176581109667322009-02-25T17:57:00.000-08:002009-02-25T18:18:45.833-08:00

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-21046973546108268632009-01-26T20:26:00.001-08:002009-01-26T20:26:50.102-08:00

Just realized I am due in a month! My due date is February 26th....

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-24385933063250419422009-01-21T21:05:00.000-08:002009-01-21T21:10:44.171-08:00

The boys were playing in the kitchen with their Playmobil toys. Apparently HL suggested something not to AW's liking because I soon heard AW's signature whine/cry/yell response when something goes against what he wants. I asked AW to tell his brother what he would like in a big boy voice. And here is the next line I heard:"HL, will you please not talk!"

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-86407730344053466992009-01-12T07:26:00.000-08:002009-01-12T07:35:19.323-08:00

Got to experience a whole new adventure for my birthday this year... The Cub Scout's Pinewood Derby Race! Hubby and HL worked hard every evening the week previous to create his car, but I was busy all evenings and didn't get to see his car until that morning. As they guard them closely to prevent any tampering, I still have yet to see it up close! But I do know that HL chose to paint it dark

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-83679712024995815712009-01-04T08:55:00.001-08:002009-01-04T08:58:35.430-08:00

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-38320323218991303852008-12-28T10:56:00.000-08:002008-12-28T10:57:57.170-08:00

My family celebrated Christmas on the 27th. Here are the photos of that day:

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-4181960976251892442008-12-27T08:50:00.000-08:002008-12-27T08:50:00.360-08:00

These photos chronicle the good time at Aunt S's house:

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-33521551334954946222008-12-26T20:44:00.000-08:002008-12-26T20:45:57.613-08:00

Here are the pictures from Christmas celebrations at NH's house:

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-34159136501730385462008-12-26T12:12:00.000-08:002008-12-26T13:22:37.349-08:00

Hubby and I, of course, struggle with our current lack of income, but we also see a lot of good coming from it....Our boys appear to be learning to be money-conscious. On the one hand, it is a bit disheartening to see that our son chooses what toys to circle in the Walmart catalog by their price. This is what we hear from HL: "Hey Mom! I found a Lego set that is only $4.99! I want that one"

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-149762195845309022008-12-25T12:38:00.000-08:002008-12-26T13:22:54.847-08:00

On Tuesday, HL had a bit of a surprise for us; last week he had mentioned that he found the perfect gift for his brother in the catalog and wanted to buy it with his own money. We didn't think anything of it, figured he would forget it by the time we went shopping. However, come Tuesday morning, as we were still in laying in bed, we heard a loud crash of the piggy-bank-type. HL was trying to

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-9793816075693543092008-12-23T22:01:00.001-08:002008-12-23T22:09:05.818-08:00

Called the Dr's office with a small concern of mine this morning. The triage nurse asked me to come right in- better safe than sorry. Results of an exam and an ultrasound convinced the Dr that I am not heading into preterm labor as feared. PHEW!However, we did discover that the amniotic fluid is a bit low and will need to be watched. To help increase the fluid, I am to drink more water and

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-14126793899961138332008-12-22T17:32:00.000-08:002008-12-23T22:01:03.159-08:00

Hey everyone!Our Eldest is a finalist in the football pool he participates in. He needs Chicago to win tonight by four. Though it pains me, I must root for da Bears.I am exsidid for the game! GO BAERS!Above block quote: sounded out and typed by guest blogger, HLH with no help from me...UPDATE: Unfortunately, the Bears were a mere two points short of beating the point spread. But, HL took it in

Jerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04143552621303755045noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-3272961541253002372008-12-20T08:17:00.000-08:002008-12-20T08:25:29.251-08:00

My M-I-L took a rather interesting picture the other day- it shows, left to right, Hubby's sled, her sled, and her mom's. While I love the picture, the best part for me was listening to her reminisce about sledding right down the middle of the street where she grew up. Can't do that anymore, unfortunately. I really relish the image of the past; kids bundled up against the cold with huge smiles

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-37396672749124991002008-12-19T20:00:00.000-08:002008-12-20T08:03:36.728-08:00

I have apologized and thanked Hubby profusely for his part in my sanity. But I have (so far) neglected to do the same for all the others who have dealt with and helped me; namely my parents and sister...Mom and dad have always been there when we were in dire straits financially, they feed us often, and shop for clothes for us when needed. My parents are also excellent about spending time with

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-62948599111399856692008-12-19T19:11:00.001-08:002008-12-19T19:16:24.285-08:00

Well, we're to the point where we see the Dr. every two weeks now, and I just saw the Dr. yesterday. All appears well. I am measuring 31cm (which is good for 30 weeks). Baby's heart rate was 153 (also good). My blood pressure is higher than it has been in the past, but still well within range. The only issue is that my hemoglobin is low, but that is easily fixed by taking iron supplements. I

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-62095727415182380042008-12-18T16:18:00.000-08:002008-12-18T16:20:32.854-08:00

This set of photos were taken today at HL's school Christmas party.Only one more Christmas party to go- my work!

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-644437993858217792008-12-17T16:15:00.000-08:002008-12-18T16:17:40.074-08:00

These are the pictures of AW's preschool party and performance. All 6 children stood up and sang to us- it was adorable!PS- I know you're likely getting tired of all these photo albums, but it IS that time of year for TONS o' pics!

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-70269539968298238972008-12-16T19:58:00.000-08:002008-12-17T07:23:58.844-08:00

We spent both days over the past weekend celebrating December birthdays with our families. As if getting ready for Christmas is not crazy enough, we have SEVEN birthdays to fit in there, too! But, as hectic as it can get, it is always great to get together and celebrate.

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-37402519711997661072008-12-16T16:07:00.000-08:002008-12-21T21:56:00.705-08:00

Each first grade class in HL's school presented their own showing of "Bob Humbug". HL was Narrator #1 and did a great job! While he is an excellent reader, when he reads out loud, it tends to be very quiet and fast. But, he practiced and practiced before the performance, and did an outstanding job. Too bad the microphone is in front of his face....

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-43718356232608435262008-12-16T09:29:00.000-08:002008-12-16T20:03:44.712-08:00

Ya know, even though this pregnancy is definitely giving me difficulties, I still enjoy bearing a baby. It is amazing to me that Hubby and I, with God's help of course, have actually created this miracle of a new life. I find his movements comforting, and, oh!, the anticipation of being able to meet this new little guy soon! To know that sometime within the next three months he will be laid

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-11795037698757687242008-12-16T07:35:00.000-08:002008-12-16T09:22:08.965-08:00

I recently talked about my physical issues with this pregnancy, but haven't talked much about the emotional ones lately. Being unable to take my full dose of antidepressants, lacking sleep (I have to flip every hour or so due to the pain in my hips), and dealing with crazy hormones has left me... well... DIFFICULT. I get upset when my non-communicated expectations are not met, and I am often

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-80169193083717888612008-12-16T07:20:00.000-08:002008-12-16T07:28:07.777-08:00

So, AW finally decided to try out this whole football pool thing......and STOMPED us all!!When the boys woke up Monday morning and found out that AW had won, HL immediately gave his little brother a big hug and a kiss on the cheek. This was quickly followed by AW exclaiming "HL, I will be your brother FOREVER!"As any mom of more than one knows, these are the moments I live for.

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-53505626200411395432008-12-15T16:45:00.001-08:002008-12-15T17:07:14.077-08:00

Now that he is 6, HL has joined the Cub Scouts. He is ecstatic! Having no idea what to expect, I have been a little surprised by the whole thing. Being a den of nothing but newbies, we are kinda punting and learning as we go. But, I do really enjoy all the parents from our den and the boys certainly LOVE going to den meetings!Back in November, they had a "Dad 'N Lad Cake Auction" in which the

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-22422411721751635902008-12-12T17:01:00.000-08:002008-12-15T17:04:41.212-08:00

Here is a fun picture of decorating at our house.This year, we are going to try an get them put away by sometime in February....

Jerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04143552621303755045noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-39868026680055081942008-12-11T20:09:00.000-08:002008-12-11T20:10:48.296-08:00

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-17127718715045034052008-12-10T07:51:00.000-08:002008-12-11T20:19:33.819-08:00

The boys and I helped my parents decorate their house for Christmas. In most families, the tree takes center stage, but not so for us. Grandpa waits impatiently, like a fun-loving child, for his grandsons to come put together this skating rink. But as excited as Grandpa gets, the boys are even more so! I anticipate this skating rink becoming a ritual, creating cherished memories for my

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-62074657515218091502008-12-10T07:18:00.000-08:002008-12-11T12:59:09.501-08:00

Yay!! We're in the Third Trimester!!! In fact, I only have 11 weeks to go- that is, IF we go to the due date.While this has been a rather difficult pregnancy for me physically, the boys' excitement has made it almost like having my first again. They get to feel their brother (yes, BROTHER) move frequently and always jump at the chance! We are all having fun trying to come up with a name for

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-89843212117189809972008-12-09T18:29:00.000-08:002008-12-11T07:08:36.058-08:00

We were lucky enough to attend our second roller derby bout in which my S-I-L skated. She got into this quite some time ago and was instantly sucked in. I was skeptical at first- to the point that I didn't really want to go, but finally gave in... ...and LOVED it!I expected rage and violence, but was surprised to find a group of women revealing their (sometimes) hidden inner sexual, competitive

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-32714514980257425042008-12-08T07:52:00.000-08:002008-12-10T18:49:48.541-08:00

HL's school offers a program where teaching students from the local university come in and teach free classes after school. This semester, HL participated in the "3D Postcard" class which promised exploration into postcards, where they came from and creating a personal postcard. HL told us a month ago that he was making a postcard for his Aunt K, depicting a trip we took together to Iowa. He

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-36774163100030725282008-12-07T19:50:00.000-08:002008-12-07T21:51:53.876-08:00

In my mailbox yesterday, I found what appeared to be a Christmas card. The weird thing about it was that our name and address were typed, then taped on the envelope and the return address was missing. Now who do we know that would address a Christmas card in that fashion? Intrigued, I tore open the envelope. What I found within brought me to tears. It was indeed a Christmas card, only

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-73229378602470172312008-12-01T08:10:00.000-08:002008-12-01T21:11:30.602-08:00

While I don't have anyone close to me that is active military in the Middle East, my oldest brother is over there as a civilian for the military. Despite his horrendous hours (12,14, even 16 hours a day, 7 days a week sometimes), the merciless sandstorms, the Middle East Crud (from all the petroleum in the air), the temperature, the stress, the headaches, etc, he is currently serving his third

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-35917617422134120422008-11-16T18:16:00.001-08:002008-11-16T19:59:30.080-08:00

Football pool, that is.At the beginning of the football season, HL was interested in the teams and their standings. He would continuously check nfl.com throughout the day on Sundays and report any scores or big plays to his dad. When my sister heard of this she began generously paying HL's way so that he could participate in the weekly football pool at her office. Little did any of us know

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-71561461482360959762008-11-16T09:05:00.001-08:002008-11-16T09:17:51.828-08:00

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-64262801718277548772008-11-12T08:48:00.000-08:002008-11-12T08:48:01.020-08:00

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-70819921755545365592008-11-11T13:12:00.001-08:002008-11-16T09:31:50.061-08:00

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-34495953472990518822008-11-11T12:59:00.000-08:002008-11-11T12:59:39.013-08:00

A picture of AW's preschool class this year.

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-64097818548885696372008-11-11T12:53:00.000-08:002008-11-11T12:57:31.072-08:00

Another recent surprise from AW: he is spelling short words, sounding out written words and showing a real interest in reading already! As proud and wonderful as this makes me feel, it also concretes the fact that my (current) baby is NOT a baby anymore. He is quickly growing into a big boy. All parents know how bittersweet this can be.Thank goodness there's baby reinforcements on the way! ;)

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-79474811814840353262008-11-10T20:41:00.000-08:002008-11-17T07:31:23.682-08:00

Back before school started, my parents asked us to join them on a trip to Glenwood Springs. A wonderful time was had by all! Here are the photos to prove it:Thank you, Grandma and Papa for the great trip!!

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-26586735228959458062008-11-10T17:50:00.000-08:002008-11-11T08:25:04.163-08:00

My (current) youngest has recently surprised us with a liking and skill for building things. Give him a tube of Tinker Toys or a set of Legos, and he is happy for hours! Until just a couple weeks ago, he would just kinda stick them together randomly, but now he is copying pictures from the Tinker Toys book.He also creates unique, often symmetrical, spaceships of Legos. These spaceships usually

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-23952066467418511642008-11-01T09:58:00.001-07:002008-11-01T12:33:39.606-07:00

This is another post over which I have vacillated. It regards a subject that, initially, has been difficult for me to admit to others. Upon discussing it with hubby, however, I have decided that my hesitation stems only from my pride, and thus needs to be humbled....With hubby still in college full-time, finances only continue to get tighter and tighter. Because of this, we have acquired

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-48355337236763426072008-11-01T09:47:00.001-07:002008-11-01T10:36:57.953-07:00

Brought tears to my eyes....

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-58524427328062870482008-10-25T19:53:00.000-07:002008-10-25T20:12:48.613-07:00

It all started a couple years ago, with his first set of army guys. Since then, HL has been increasingly interested in the military in general, wars in particular. We've read many children's books regarding this war or that (mostly the Civil and Revolutionary). Trips to the library always involve HL disappearing to ask the librarian for help, then reappearing with a stack of history books.

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-13313484837765534402008-10-24T13:50:00.000-07:002008-10-24T13:53:35.750-07:00

For a couple weeks now, I have had the perfect word to describe AW on the tip of my tongue. Last night, it finally flew out of my mouth:Ebullient! adj 1. Zestfully enthusiastic. 2. Boiling or seeming to boil; bubbling.

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-46812656126338825132008-10-23T08:47:00.000-07:002008-10-23T09:03:31.223-07:00

After watching Zula Patrol (excellent show, btw!), I asked AW what he had learned. His first reply referenced Mars and how there is rust on it. Then, I pressed for more info, wanting to know what he learned about Saturn:"I learned that its rings are soo beautiful, you can hardly stand it!"This is not long after coming in from the car where he was telling me that he loved me so much, he was

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-4680521787963035842008-10-22T17:24:00.000-07:002008-10-22T17:45:50.835-07:00

Our Eldest started participating in a football pool recently and has a great time following the games and the progress of the pool. This week it caused an issue, though. He picked New England over my team the Broncos. Monday rolls around and we try to get him to wear his Bronco shirt. Nothing doing. He picked out a plain blue one for New England. Game time rolls around and we get to watch

Jerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04143552621303755045noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-67947841053721439322008-10-17T16:42:00.001-07:002008-10-17T16:48:47.642-07:00

Studying for the big final...Our Eldest has been having some trouble falling asleep at night so we allow him to read in his bed. Well, one night he was looking at his StarWars trivia book and couldn't think of the answers. So what does he do? Give up? Nah, he climbs down from his bed, gets His Brother's StarWars movie book and looks up the answers.That's my boy!

Jerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04143552621303755045noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-52182870326133045172008-10-15T20:10:00.000-07:002008-10-15T20:20:17.427-07:00

Ever since I can remember, I have had great difficulty falling asleep. I vividly recall laying in bed as a little girl, my mind going a hundred miles an hour, skipping from one thought to another, escalating into a panic about the future. As an adult, I have learned to manage it by reading a book until my eyes refuse to remain open. But, I have never learned to actually prevent the issue, or

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-39903327106824039332008-10-15T19:54:00.000-07:002008-10-15T20:10:06.917-07:00

When asked how his day at preschool was, AW's usual response is "SUPER FANTASTIC", "WICKED AWESOME", or some other similar sentiment. You don't get any "fines", or "okays" out of this boy. This is one of the things I love so about him- he is most often very jubilant, he truly loves life. Some examples:A week or two ago, we took the boys to a free rock and mineral show at the local senior

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-48289722692287007562008-10-06T07:47:00.000-07:002008-10-06T09:21:25.873-07:00

It has been amazing to me just how different two young brothers can be from each other. My inexperienced mind was expecting that, since both boys come from the same genes and are raised in the same environment, they would be rather similar. But NO. They do, of course, have similar interests and like a lot of the same toys, but their personalities really could not be more different...HL is

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-63259480465089739482008-10-03T08:15:00.000-07:002008-10-03T09:09:02.348-07:00

Here is my take. As my lovely bride stated, this is an equal opportunity economic mess. Let's not forget that fiscal policy is created by both the president and congress. That being said, the real issue in this country is the aristocracy we have created that is the Senate and The House of Representatives. It is no longer about serving this country it's about retaining power. How do they

Jerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04143552621303755045noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-31426542083781488172008-10-03T07:53:00.000-07:002008-10-03T09:17:45.558-07:00

I am just so fed up with people, from both sides, bad-mouthing the other side's candidates and/or beliefs. Why in the world can we not just support what we believe in instead of bashing others?!? The whole idea of a bipartisan government is balance and moderation brought about by opposing beliefs. But to work, it depends on respect toward each other- and we definitely do NOT have that in this

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-36054352833374129482008-09-29T21:11:00.001-07:002008-09-29T21:23:22.312-07:00

Oh, things are really getting to be fun now! Once I get through that dreaded first trimester, I absolutely LOVE being pregnant. And I am definitely in the funnest time of it all- when you feel the baby move, but the kicks aren't forcing you to pee NOW yet; the anticipation of that incredible peek at your child, the 20 week ultrasound; the knowledge that, with luck, you will know the gender of

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-21896534231661501152008-09-29T21:04:00.000-07:002008-10-06T09:45:44.201-07:00

A friend of mine was concerned that the children's pastor at a church we visit made irrelevant comments about global warming on Sunday. So, I asked HL if it was true. He couldn't remember what was said, but did recall the subject being brought up. This sparked a conversation, and I quizzed him a little to see what he new of the subject...When asked what global warming is, he responded that "it

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-81551099556037545332008-09-02T09:20:00.000-07:002008-10-06T09:46:40.433-07:00

As of yesterday, I am now 15 weeks pregnant and feel confident enough to say that I am out of the miscarriage window. Phew! I did have a couple scares, but I fortunately have a very caring OB/Gyn who is always happy to reassure me by either ultrasound or listening to the heartbeat. Which, by the way, I got to hear just last Friday. I LOVE that sound, I tell ya. Having great connections in the

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-57225679223260013222008-09-02T09:15:00.001-07:002008-09-02T09:20:56.300-07:00

Hey, hey, hey! Can ya believe it?!? I'm actually writing a new post.... So, this pregnancy- yes I am STILL pregnant!- has really taken its toll during the first trimester. Yes, I was nauseous, but that was something I could work with. It was the absolute, utter exhaustion and fatigue that knocked me on my butt. It stems from a combination of things; being older, regular pregnancy tiredness,

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-28550928870177537752008-07-05T20:47:00.000-07:002008-07-05T21:12:28.560-07:00

Went camping last weekend. Man what a blast. Makes a perfect subject to try out some features from Picasa's web albums. So, without further ado, here is a slide show of our recent family outing to the hills.And some photos...Our Eldest loved shooting the Ruger.Just kidding. It's only a CO2 pellet gun. A .22 cal pellet gun, but only a pellet gun. The sooner we teach our kids gun safety the

Jerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04143552621303755045noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-66954637163382098062008-07-02T08:00:00.000-07:002008-11-12T18:12:00.931-08:00

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-43306807439161493462008-06-30T11:40:00.000-07:002008-06-30T12:31:51.122-07:00

I love this song. It reminds me of sooooooo much. I've listened to it 15 times today, and sometimes, when I get lost in memories, it has brought a tear to my eye.This one's for you babe.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uwIGZLjugKALucky for me, I get to see that girl again, and again, and again...

Jerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04143552621303755045noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-55939549289361703672008-06-25T21:35:00.000-07:002008-11-12T18:12:01.266-08:00

How do you like my new mower? I love it! I've been thinking about one for a while, and the other day, I made it a reality or should I say reelality. Sure, it is a little harder to push, but the benefits greatly out weigh the costs.How do I love my mower? Let me count the ways...It is not as loud and obnoxious as a powered mower.It takes no gas.It takes no spark plug.It does not pollute.It is

Jerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04143552621303755045noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-36535078943883647012008-06-25T20:57:00.000-07:002008-06-25T21:18:28.126-07:00

After you read the previous post, come back to read this one. It will make more sense...As Our Eldest and I topped the "mountain", we beheld the spectacular view mentioned in the previous post. We just knew that Mom would appreciate the site, so after a few minutes of soaking in the view, we started to head back down. Oops, too steep. So, we looked for an easier path. Down the gentle slope

Jerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04143552621303755045noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-61779461924012681882008-06-25T20:38:00.001-07:002008-11-12T18:12:01.883-08:00

For Father’s Day, we spent the day in the mountains with the boys and my parents. It was a much-needed excursion away from home, out in the fresh air, up in the mountains- my absolute favorite place. In fact, I like it up there so much that even some adventure and stress couldn't dampen my day.... Picture in your head an idyllic scene of children laughing, throwing rocks and sticks in the river

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-31057234344603470862008-06-25T08:00:00.000-07:002008-11-12T18:12:01.980-08:00

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-72796909434275997242008-06-20T17:59:00.000-07:002008-06-20T18:32:49.370-07:00

So............We have been blessed with another opportunity to bring another life into the world. My Much Better Half took a test last night, and it showed two lines! We have not made it to the Dr's yet, so don't know about the health of the fetus yet, but just the opportunity is a blessing itself!-HubbyWith this pregnancy, I have had a surprising switch to my perspective regarding telling

Jerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04143552621303755045noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-5744109667122853382008-06-04T08:17:00.000-07:002008-11-12T18:12:02.261-08:00

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-6529045928543788572008-05-30T20:24:00.000-07:002008-11-12T18:12:02.987-08:00

This is the awesome cake my niece, AJ (then only 16), made for HL's first birthday party. Since then, she continues to amaze all of us with her creative cake-making skills! Here are a couple of my personal favorites:

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-81675310624661957212008-05-24T05:46:00.000-07:002008-11-12T18:12:03.418-08:00

HUBBY HAS A DEGREE! HUBBY HAS A DEGREE! HUBBY HAS A DEGREE! It was 1990; we were young, we were in love, we made good money, we lived on our own-we were free.And, we were stupid. We gave up on going to college. A decision that has haunted us all this time. But now, 18 years later (O.M.G.), Hubby has done it. It was/is a rough road, but we know it is all worth it.I'm very proud of

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-46713358567734723632008-05-21T13:07:00.000-07:002008-05-21T13:13:57.746-07:00

Now that I wrote that post, I seem to have opened the floodgates in my head....When I started this church search several months ago, my primary purpose was to find a good church for my children to grow up in, but it has unexpectedly evolved into much more for me. As a child I went to church every Sunday with my parents, but it was out of obligation, not desire. My Sunday school lessons were

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-65401690481927419822008-05-21T11:56:00.000-07:002008-05-21T12:25:08.254-07:00

My search for a church continues... the boys and I attended the last one I mentioned for several Sundays. The boys LOVE it there, but I found myself wanting more. I do really like their pastor, but the services consist of 30 minutes of singing, the offering, and an hour long sermon (very GOOD ones), but where was the praying, and songs after the sermon. Where was the blessing at the close of

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-36386752813474111262008-05-21T06:33:00.000-07:002008-11-12T18:12:04.605-08:00

We spent last Saturday out with HL's church group, Ranger Kids, at a "Turkey Shoot"- only without any turkeys. It was a great event where the adults had set up several different stations so that the kids (and their adults) could try out/compete in using varied weapons. Aside from what you see below, they also had water bottle rockets, .22 target shooting, tomahawk and knife throwing. What a

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-7068889349677973682008-05-08T20:48:00.000-07:002008-11-12T18:12:04.965-08:00

Daddy and AWSCORE!!Doin' the home team's dance.My sister, whose stepsons were both lacrosse players in high school, buys season tickets for the lacrosse season each year. For the very last game of the regular season, she asked if we would like to take our boys. Of course we pounced at the opportunity! I asked her if, when she mailed the tickets, she would address the envelope to the kids

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-82507329568403974082008-05-08T20:37:00.000-07:002008-11-12T18:12:05.508-08:00

Teaching the boys a favorite game from her childhood.HL hit his head pretty hard on GG's glass table, so she fixed up a special head wrap for him!"My head was hurt?"

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-85727938705398920002008-05-08T20:13:00.000-07:002008-05-08T20:36:39.510-07:00

Just a couple more things AW says that catch my funny-bone...."I am frrusterrated.""Love it?!?" He asks this after showing off something.And he so often finds things in life beautiful. The other day, HL put AW's little plastic pet frog in a cup of water. This action was met by:"oh, the frog is in his bath tub. Isn't that just beautiful, mommy?"

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-28813696887587999752008-05-08T20:10:00.000-07:002008-11-12T18:12:06.356-08:00

As I obviously don't have the energy to type all the lengthy posts in my head, I have decided to do some photo posts instead.These pictures were taken over the weekend while at cousin TB's 6th B-Day party:The four cousins.The birthday boy's serenade.Taking a swing at the pinata."Whoo-hoo!"A bit too scary in the cave, I guess...And enjoying the live entertainment.

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-1320981753143970182008-04-19T10:23:00.001-07:002008-04-19T10:43:34.373-07:00

You read about the oh-so-sweet AW-isms that make us smile. This morning was a reminder that they are not all sweet....Hubby and I were sleeping in while the boys played chess quietly. Wizards chess, actually, which is really nothing like real chess. But I digress. Anyway, we hear AW holler that he needs help wiping (after pooping in the potty). I watch as daddy jumps up and leaves the room

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-42585636433988062072008-04-19T10:21:00.000-07:002008-04-19T10:22:56.389-07:00

Will someone please tell me why it is that while in the shower, with the hot water pounding my body, I feel cold. But the second I step out of the shower, I am so hot that it's almost unbearable?!?What is with that?

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-82072359825020990752008-04-15T20:20:00.000-07:002008-04-16T07:52:14.383-07:00

It is a daily occurrence that AW makes us smile with his "AW-isms". Here are a couple of his current ones:"That's a nice shirt you got on there.""It's bea-u-tiful.""That's my bestest (meaning favorite)!""This is some good food you made.""You're a good cooker."And my personal favorite..."Mommy, you are lov-e-ly."Which is usually followed by..."Do you like the word lov-e-ly? I do. I love it.

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-73994909521880129742008-04-11T09:53:00.000-07:002008-11-12T18:12:06.651-08:00

HL's new favorite household chore- he actually asked Nanny if he could do this for her! The other chores he and his brother do around the house are: put away clean dishes, help do laundry, set and clear the table, and pick up the house (since they are the culprits making that mess!). It is so nice that they are getting old enough to help out so much!

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-91921628671452492202008-04-03T12:37:00.000-07:002008-11-12T18:12:06.992-08:00

Here are a few pictures from the 2008 Kids Fest here in town. Sure was lots of fun, and the boys get a free book! Making ButterfliesThe kids were cooking up bugs and fish.No thanks

Jerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04143552621303755045noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-42373758361309869202008-04-01T19:43:00.000-07:002008-11-12T18:12:07.260-08:00

AW as an absolutely adorable little leprechaun.Apparently HL thought so, too!

Calhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13632107143449057115noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-45954904343154941612008-03-20T14:01:00.001-07:002008-11-12T18:12:07.411-08:00

What a Hot Junior Prom Date!Today is the first day of spring. It's also an anniversary of sorts. My Beautiful Wife & I have been together for 19 uninterrupted years. A silly anniversary, I know, but I waited ten years to ask her to marry me (lucky she stuck around, eh?). So, this day has meaning to me.

Jerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04143552621303755045noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19605535.post-22483283051879056302008-03-17T20:09:00.001-07:002008-11-12T18:12:07.595-08:00

Earlier today, I heard Our Youngest crying from the basement, and headed down to see what had happened. I asked him, "What's wrong?" And he sobs out, "It's frozen." I look down to see what happened, and notice Playmobil pieces embedded in the Playdoh they snuck out the day before. "Ahhhhh." And I said, "Well, I guess that's a good reason not to sneak out the Playdoh."

Jerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04143552621303755045noreply@blogger.com0