16
Aug
2006
Kid Quips
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Gabe has been having some really funnys lately:

when I was cleaning the kitchen faucet with vinegar, he said "whats that smell" and I obliged with a hand covered with vinegar to his nose and asked if he wanted to taste it too... which he replied "I know that smell and it's gusting!"

When trying to figure out why all the crayons were in a purse in the kitchen I heard "we needed to do that cuz were on a venture!"



13
Aug
2006
Vacation
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First Full Day of Vacation-
I don’t know if I will be able to post this or not, as I did find a free wi-fi spot (thank you great Blue Satellite Company!) but don't know how long I can use it for- or for that matter when I am going to hand lug my PC up to it (about a mile walk).

Last night as we pulled in here really late, my fuel line BROKE AGAIN. I just had it in to get it fix and then it goes Kaput! Figures,,,, and the worst part is that we just filled up the gas tank in Rapid City and the repair place wants us to burn as much of the gas out as we can (did I mention we are at Sturgis and there are SEVERE FIRE WARNINGS.. Signs all over saying no throwing cigarettes out windows etc.- Like gas on the ground is going to be so great to help that condition.

Anyway after a call this morning to our normal repair place that "fixed it" I did get a "go ahead and submit the bill and we will stand by our work and pay for it if it is our fault". So hopefully…

Sad news is it will be Tue before the shop can get it in, this is one day of campground living, tomorrow the first concert starts so maybe the wait will not be as bad as it was today- a 2+ mile trek one way across the campground and to the full throttle salon, which is like WeFest always is, so kinda cool.

I am hoping to get some pictures up while I post this (so cannot put the link in here- go to photos and they will be in the AUG 2006 album).Cool Ride The pictures were of some really cool custom bikes we saw at the thunderdome today and some scenic shots I took as we were driving down the road. Do I need to mention where the guys are now? Think off to hooter alley….

Day 2 of vacation-
Actually CAMPED while camping! Usually we go camping just as a place to sleep and eat quick then off to the concerts. Yesterday thanks to the fortuitous event of the jeep breaking we were stuck here at the campground. After taking the really long walk yesterday I don't think anyone was ready to do it again… we stayed at camp, played some ladder golf, did dishes, ate (spaghetti was the main meal, Oatmeal for breakfast) and talked to our neighbors, some which were still arriving. At night we went to the concert- Shooter Jennings, Keith Urban, and Big and Rich. While sitting there we noted huge lightening bolts in the sky, we donned our rainsuits and the show continued without a hitch. Talked to bethie last night and it seems she left nana's lights on in the van and drained the battery.

This morning the skys are partly overcast and you can feel it is going to be a scorcher. I think I will make eggs, pancakes and hash for breakfast…

Day 3 and thru Day 8
Seems that the above is all that I wrote while actually on Vacation so you get my memories and best intentions :)
FInishing Day 2- Concerts were Joe Crocker and someone else but I don't remember who as the concert was cancelled due to the torrential downpour that we sat thru until they cancelled it late.

Day 3 we took the van into Spearfish to get it fixed. Drove through Spearfish cannon and through to Deadwood. That night was Nickelback

Day 4 We did downtown. These businesses intriqued me- they open up into whole block wide businesses. one could walk through from one side to the other. Lots of bikes, Lots of vendors, Lots of people, Lots of HEAT! Went into one shop that had a coat that I sorta liked but not that much. No price on it, hubby joked "if you need to ask you can't afford"... boy was that true! Coat $675, Matching chaps (which did not match) $750. YIKES! That night was Cheep Trick and Tom Petty. Feet swelled up that night and we watched Got squished and moved back as people stepping in the dark on my swollen feet was getting quite painful.

Day 5 took us back to thunderdome for autographed posters and poses with the babes. Got back early to get a good seat for REO and 38 special and Sammy Haggar.

Day 6 took us on a road trip through the mountains to mount rushmore, Wind Cave, Needles Highway, Iron Mountain Road and 2 "oops the Navigator got us lost" scenic routes (did I mention I was the Navigator???) Saw about 30 miles of back gravel roads out in the boonies and Rapid City (which we initially thought was sturgis until we read Rapid City on the sign at 10:30 pm!Mt. Rushmore

Day 7 (days are off as I did not blog the first day traveling out)- Took us through the badlands and back to home territory. Around Sioux Falls we were passed by Outlaws from Chicago. Healthy Respect and safe distance given. Picked up Bethie and Dropped off my brother, then on to get the boys. Finally arrived home a little after 11pm. Kids were thrilled to see us. Bethie attached herself to my leg, Boys were happy but not as demonstrative as she was. Spent all morning this morning unpacking and pulling 3 kids off my legs as they are all following us very closely.

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23
Jul
2006
short catch-up
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Its been a busy work week for me this week. I am gathering all the "additional" items I need and making tons of high quality stuff- even surprising myself! Hubby even surprised me with additional shelving for the studio (YEAH!)

Kids have been "off" lately, maybe it was because the library lady went on vacation or maybe it was because the oldest snuck stuff (don't know, he swears "no" but that could be a lie- especially since his asthma and tummy have been off the wall as well as behaviors!)

We had a campfire in the yard the other night, kids enjoyed toasted marshmallows eventho it was bedtime before the fire was ready! other than that its been work work work...

Well Kids are hyper in the studio... need to go be a parent!



17
Jul
2006
Reunions and Work
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3 family reunions in 8 days done! WHEW!

Kids were generally good- was too hot to be that bad! Was enjoyable to see all the older generation that very possibily will not be around next year as some were quite frail this year. We actually got a "parents night out- kid free" this weekend so all and all it was a good weekend! :)

Have to return to the childrens dentist today. Not that thrilled about having to go as it is a drive (1.5-2 hrs. away). Got lots of stuff to do here that is important too so finding the time today to go road tripping doesn't seem that trilling, but more like a necc. evil.

Both hubby and I seem to be "in the right place at the right time". My business is booming with custom orders (picked up 3 this weekend) and he is wanted to help with this or that. I just now need to schedule a few extra days in the week so the "around here" jobs get done too! LOL! (I am not complaining tho!).

Did a lot of market research this past week and all seems positive. There was a lot of buzz on Sunday for my stuff so I know I am going in the right direction... made my day :-)

well morning coffee is gone so better get to work before the kiddos wake!



11
Jul
2006
Things I learned today...
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I am not OLD I am NEW (bethie refering to my age)

One time when Bethie was daddys age, while I was in the house she rode a horse from our house to the old daycare. The horse had pink hair and brown and white clothes- specifically a brown dress. Its name was brownie. She loved that horse, can she do it again?

Today Bethie tooted through her nose (????)
Later she burped through her nose (that one I can relate, especially after she drank root beer).

Been an interesting day thats for sure!



09
Jul
2006
Good Day, Bad Day
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Today started off as a good day... All of us had baths in the "new" bathroom.. Minus the pepto pink walls and carpeted floors etc. and the well finally worked again (think it is fixed for a long time this time) so we had baths, a working toilet... all is well in the world! (can you tell I am easy to please- LOL!)

Then we went to the family reunion and I don't know what was up, but it felt like it was back 10 plus years ago when I was an outsider. Evidentally I must not have enough for the high and mighty to associate with. Tis OK, I learned more about the family than the "clan" of my hubbys branch that all ganged together. See in this family reunion Hubbys branch seems to clump together and stays together- odd since they see each other most of the time; and the other farther out family members are discarded for some reason. Anyways, thats not the bad day part- that was the "to be expected" part.

The bad part started off as minor, a little "put down" that I don't know anything from which I speak even though I have been researching this subject for weeks and this person just assumes they know it all (expected again but hit me like a slap in the face when I was trying to be helpful) then while talking to the pleasant members of the family I hear Bethie scream. Though her hysterics I caught the fact that another child (name withheld) there was climbing the slide and collided with her while she went down. No "how is she doing" or "Oh I am so sorry my kid was in error and went up the down and hurt her" Nothing was said especially not a "I am sorry" from either parent or kid. Well bleeding finally stopped on her teeth, fat lip, she went off and sat down. Came back a few minutes later and laid down on me (this is highly strange) then about an hour passes and she states she is hungry. She takes a bite of a soft muffin and screams. I look and more blood. feel the tooth, way loose. SHITE! Start going over to hubby and since he was in the middle of a v-ball game I call for him to come. I hear in the background "Now whats the matter!" from the clan in a not nice tone to which I ignore. Over looking about 10 more really burned me moments, fast forward to we arrive home. I already settled on soft foods for supper due to bethies tooth.

Before dinner is even done cooking she screams in pain again, she just closed her mouth. The tooth is hitting the other teeth as it is hanging down so low. Call mom, then call the dentist because mom had no experience. Dentist calls back an hour later, I was worried about speech and chewing not to mention cosmetic issues for 4 or so years (stephen lost his first tooth at 8 yrs of age). Dentist did not think that was an issue at all, instead we have to go in the morning to see about her permanent tooth root to see if her adult tooth was damaged and to see if we can stabilize it to ease some of the pain for her. She just laid around all night- which is highly abnormal for her. and is totally "off" in her normal behavior so something is way wrong. I guess we will find out tomorrow when we drive to the specialists office 2 hours away (and then return there in a week for the 6 month check). Oh happy day! I am expecting a sleepless night as bethies mouth is never still!



06
Jul
2006
a few moments slowing down to smell the daisys
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been busy trying to get all the 1950's mastic (sp?) off the bathroom walls that they used to adhere the pepto bismal pink plastic tiles to the walls. I am now to the point that the paint, primer, polyurathane etc are all bought as well as the new linoleum floor and today hubby promised me the toilet is leaving for a bit (hopefully a short bit, as its the only one we have!) so I can get all the brown adhesive off the wall behind the tank, and TSP clean it, prime it and paint it with at least one coat of varnish before it goes back into the spot (and optimistically with new floor under it too) so I think I have a day ahead of me! LOL! the walls will be painters tape royal blue color, then glossed with poly. only to the chair rail height. ceiling and upper walls and floor are stark white. I am making the custom tiles for the chair rail that will be glazed in a speckled denim blue color that breaks brown to show the brown clay underneeth (the warmth to all the cold colors). I have a huge linen closet in the bathroom so thinking now how that will be painted as the brown faux wood look contact paper is not appealing anymore either!

Bought the blue paint yesterday. I put it in the back of the jeep and then had a murphy moment when I returned home. I put it in using the window opening, as I had full hands. Well when I got home with empty hands I opened the whole back up.... paint tumbled out leaving a royal blue driveway in its wake... oops!

But most of all yesterday was like a continuation of the fourth, hubby took layoff so he is loafing around here and he got out the 2-way radios (6 of them) and the 6 of us including tracy had a blast playing hide and go seek with radio clues when needed all around the farm yard. Stephen fell out of a tree but that was the only mishap to be had. THen we played baseball and gabe twisted his ankle and when it was dusk the sparklers and "legal" fireworks came out, as the fourth it was too crowded to do them and the kids fell asleep before we left town.

the fourth was fun, grandpa and doris had made prior plans, but we had a lot of people that stopped by to say hi and share food with. Hubbys tailgate setup of bringing the grill on the trailer with shelving on the back as a food serving area seemed to be a hit from all the passerbys (and with me also!).

Well the walls are not getting finished and the last straglers are finially waking up this morning so I had better get to work, got a full day ahead of me (and possibly blue hair!)

Archives

28
Jun
2006
All and All, Today was fine I guess...
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Busy Busy day... Library time with preschoolers started the day, then had to run back to town for another appointment. Got done there with some time to spare and so I *thought* I would go and get stephens formula. Note that *thought*, it wasn't there by accident.

I go in and ask for it, where I was greated with an dork who told me that they had to return 5 cases because they expired. Huh? I was in just before school was out, we are out now and where does it sit... at $150 a case they don't know if they want to handle it anymore. Stupid. At most I may have missed a pickup (2 cases) somewhere in there because of summer but not 5 cases and definitely not long enough for all 5 to expire. So it sits as I wait for a phone call from his supervisor to see if she wants to order more or not, that we may not get anymore for their mistake. SCREAM!

Rant over, then we went to another town for doughnuts (and the household bread supply) while still waiting to pass some time. Doughnuts were ate in the park, so time passing was no longer an issue. Running a few minutes late we finally arrive at haircuts. I got a highlight done and Gabe took a blackmail picture of mom with her hair purple... watch his blog I am sure it will show up soon! Yes, Gabe now understands the word Blackmail and with an evil twinge in his eye he laughs evily...

Grandpa stopped over with a toy to make my hubby happy and all he has been doing is working/playing with it all night, but I do have to admit the farm yard looks much better now!

So I look better (or so I think) and made my favorite dinner tonight- Belinese Tracy thought I was making something really strange, but I got her to admit it wasn't as bad as she thought it sounded (or so she says :) ) So I guess today wasn't all that bad!

Well Kids are in bed, Bethie with terriable foot pain and most likely hunger pains too- she appears to have gone on a hunger strike where the only thing she will eat is frosting from a cupcake!



27
Jun
2006
UffDa Still Going!
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Still Going and Going here... Begining to feel like that bunny that beats a drum! LOL

This weekend was filled with "business scouting" for me- meaning having some fun but paying attention to what others in the field are doing. Kids had fun, Hubby was jazzed and said he would do for me what I needed... Even concurred with me on what we liked best (thats a first!- though when he builds it the way I want I will finally believe it!). After we had a picnic in the park hubby had a brain storm that we could go see our niece race. Last time we attended a race it was way late before we came home, so a quick call to grandma and off they went to bed while we went out by ourselves (it ain't often folks!). 4am found us finally getting home! Uffda!

Waking up late, we had just enough time to get together lunch and head off for the next adventure. Mom and Uncle trent arrived with the kids and off to a parade and to see great grandparents. Kids had fun on the inflatables (see their respective blogs) and bethie wanted to post a pix to her blog too! (so she is using mine)First Time Down A Big Slide!
It was her first time down a huge slide... She rode that wave well! Click it to enlarge it and really see her face! Raw determination!

Tonight was a family get together. Tomorrow is a appointments here and there day. Thurs is another uffda Day... Someday I will get a chance to catch my breath.

Went to the studio all day yesterday and most of today. Decided yesterday was a "test" day and thought maybe out of the 10 items one would work out right... HAHA ya. So lesson learned and will keep striving. Actually I garnered enough from that test day to go ahead on the same process and change a few things AND got hubby interested enough to ask to help... which is good as I already told him I (insert explicative here) at it.... something he likes to do, and i don't maybe we would be better colaborating! (actually he has the eye for judgement, and the reason why most tests failed was my eyes don't go that finely detailed in such matters- now give me a good bread dough and I can tell you if it needs more flour, but this, ya right!)

Better let you all go, got more test pieces to make, plus some things that need to be done for others... and this isn't getting it done (with a schedule that will not allow me to do it later if I so wished!)



22
Jun
2006
Been spending time here, there, and everywhere!
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Parades, fests, Lake visits, Library reading programs etc... Been consuming my time. I have yet to make "me" time... Rather, have had plenty of "me" time too, just been so tired all I do is "sit"! LOL

The boats and lake deal was a good thing, tho the kids have been getting lax, time was not available yesterday to go to the lake, and I doubt it will be again today (house clean up not done, need to get some of MY work done and Library day today for Stephen also on top of the never ending need to run to the superstore for this or that!).

Duck hatched babies- 2 ducks total so far, one missing this morning and I hope it is under her. One is mostly yellow, the other was brown. still sitting on eggs, so maybe more to come? The white duck is still sitting on her eggs, tho I think hers are all bad (not telling her tho, as they are all "disturbed" and not liking it if you tell em to move! LOL) Here are the photos:
Cute Lil' Baby!Persistance is My Name!

Well I had Better get to work today!



21
Jun
2006
Tech stuff-
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Testing out a new browser- Flock. It is still in beta stage (although already higher than when we switched to firefox). Blogging was to be easier, but my blog is not supported (their blog states that they are having proxy/firewall issues). Haven't tried features like photo sharing etc. yet... Gimme some time to play, though first impression is "not impressed". Uses firefox extentions that are converted, so flexible and lightweight.

Email says there is the full version of windows live messenger out there. Clicking on the link gets me a download box... oops, sorry microsoft, don't do downloads from emails! One would think they would know better than to embed links like that in an email anyways! (ARG!). so googling I come up with 3 sites claiming to have the beta and not the full version and one site that appears to be down at the moment... Suppose to be able to phone chat (can already- so????) file transfer (drag and drop- well that one is better for ease) and pay to play games (current one has some freebies) OH and new emots (wow that makes me run right out and get it!). Yes I will download and play with it, all else fails I will system restore back :)

That's all for now folks! (as loony toons music plays)

EDIT
Stupidity here, The new windows live messenger is the stupid program that came with your xp updated... I will NOT be "upgrading" this one, as I removed it, hated all the interconnectivity of everything with it! I use MSN messenger which has had most of these features already. So for now I am staying the same! And Oh, the system restore may not work as it would be dumped into your main OS. Betcha you cannot remove it once installed, so upgrade with caution if you must.

EDIT AGAIN
OK looking at it, IT IS MSN MESSENGER and can be found here: Windows Live Messenger I downloaded it... not sure yet on how I will like it- as it looks like there are a lot of costly things that my kids can click on (and messenger is one of their fav. goof around programs to mess with!) So time will tell if I am a silly nilly or not- but that folder option may be worth it...



19
Jun
2006
Bethies phrase of the day and new excitement!
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"mommy can you turn on the light?"
"why?" I ask as we are zooming down the road at 70 mph at night
"because I cannot remember how to read"
She was trying to look at a happy meal toy instruction sheet... sad thing is- she don't know how to read, never has- she is only 4!!! Got me laughing really hard though!

Got a deal with the kids- they clean up the house (their messes) and we will go to the lake daily. Didn't seem to have lots of impact until I bought them their new toys-
Bumper Boats!
After one spin around the shore, squirting each other with water and finding out they don't drown or get all that wet, the lake is fun again! And now I am hearing "we want to go swimming (even off the boats) so 2 birds killed with one stone- clean house AND fear of water quelled (man am I good or what??)

So today went and finished off buying supplies at the dollar store- goggles and snorkles and pails and shovels and at the superstore bought new lawn chairs (we needed them)... so set for parades and vacations and all!

Took in our first parade... drove forever to it and there are tons of things to do afterwards. Since it is an evening parade we left like we usually do BUT the parade just went on and on... finished 2 hours later! with driving and all it was time for bed without even doing ANYTHING! so quickly walked through the stuff and drove through fast food on the way home. Kids were thrilled tho with that, they got the new Cars movie happy meals... and we just went to see cars over the weekend. So how cool is that!

Well I haven't been to the studio all day, so I suppose I had better attempt to do something for a few hours (ya I am a night owl that evidentally needs no sleep!)



14
Jun
2006
Whats been happening
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Just a general catch-up... as its been hectic and I haven't been writing as much as I usually do... Plus it doesn't help that I actually have kids on the PC's ALL the time (well everytime I seem to want to write!)

Went to our first fireworks display of the year... Looks good for the 4th! Thats good news concidering past 4ths.
We also have had daycamps, VBS, Library reading program, and all the other junk, just enough to make me think OFFDA!

Had a tree fall down in a windstorm earlier. Huge tree. So been busy cutting wood etc. and cleaning up all the mess.
Stephen would say "Tree Damage"

Gabe has been coming up with some "knock your socks off words" lately... things like (describe your sister) "colorful" type things... but darn it, I didn't write them down and now my forgetfulness is showing!

Been busy working in another direction in the Studio, and consuming a lot of my time- either in the studio or actually watching tv looking at things I have never noticed before (if you know what I am doing this makes tons of sense probably just nonsense to those who don't know me- sorry! its the kid protection on the internet issue again).

Lots of time outdoors, Bike rides around lakes, Geese grew so big they now scare the ducks away and rival the lab in size! Still have birds on nests with no signs of hatching yet... Refound the basement since all the toys moved down there, need to weed the flowerbeds again (where do the weeds come from?) noticed brown spots on the lawn and it took me awhile to figure it out- one of 2 things. Either they are from 1) geese make tons of messes and this area is just overfertilized or 2) they also eat the grass down to the ground so it scortched or maybe a combination of both- as all they do is eat and P**P!

Bethie had her training wheels raised on her bike- without her knowledge- as she would not ride it if she would have known. She is so dependent on the idea that they will save her that no attempt would even be made to ride independently. Bethie also seems to have lost her tennis shoes with her $300 each inserts in them... Still searching in the out of the way spots kids seem to let things disappear into (like cupboards and under couches) no clue. Last time I remember them was at the park and she had them off but then we went to the truckstop to eat so she would have had them on or I would have noticed... that was over a week ago and just noticed them missing over the weekend (summer sandals) so hopefully they just were misplaced!




05
Jun
2006
Saturdays excitement!
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This is what the Mean Bad Rooster did to meThis is what I did to him! Clicking the photos will take you to the album with the "full" story but suffice it to say, The rooster attacked Gabriel (pushed him off his bike, and then again on the ground- got his face, leg and spur marks punched in his back). Poor gabe was scared to even step foot outside again so we needed action. Daddy came up with the idea of shooting it and I agreed (to his suprise as I am anti-gun). I felt he needed to have closure, retribution and some exertion of power over the dumb animal, plus it didn't hurt that I was slightly torked at the animal myself- geesh it hurt my baby what do you expect!



04
Jun
2006
we Need 5 PC'S
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on the PDA today..

hubby Joked we need 1 more pc Because it Sure does keep the kids out of his hair When NASCAR is on - I Said either make it 4 or 5 as I want To read my email sometime.. These Boys sure do love their PC games but I am getting very weary of all the hours the Boys Want to Spend gaming.

Stephen Wrote in his Blog today as well as gabe. .. that is the requirement B 4 gaming

kids are set for vbs tomorrow - they are going to a larger church And they are hopeing to see their Class mates from School again - its only been a Week! ah to be young And a week seems to be an eternitity



01
Jun
2006
What my kids (and mom) learned today
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Wondering why stephens asthma was so bad... Granted I have heard numerous times this spring/summer that the allergy season was severe, and have seen it myself in the number of kleenex this family all of a sudden started going thru, and with all of Stephens snitching of food one could only think that was the culprit when out of the blue a huge anvil like the one the road runner always drops on the coyote hits me... I have gotten out of my morning routine- and therefore have not gone to school, meaning the medicines in my purse have somehow been forgotten for the past week- namely ADVAIR! so feeling terriable for having a kid who cannot breathe AND due to his eosinophilic esophagitis that med does double duty and he has been getting worse at eating/swallowing from the missing meds. guilt trip.

Gabes up and running (somewhat, depends on IF he remembers his foot or not). I have been trying to accomodate 3 kids and trying to work at the same time- mornings are better for me, but then there is no Stephie or Tracy at that time! so find myself back out of the studio to "watch" the kids (that means sit right with them as they go on their hyper spree). By mid-morning I am finding myself out enjoying the beautiful day and watching my kiddos grow up, not a very good senario for getting work done! I have 2 items that time is crutial for the people waiting... so trying to kick myself in the rear to get there!

On the otherhand Stephen learned today that popping a wheelie was more in the legs and not the arms (was funny to see him actually trying to lift his bike tho before he learned it!). Gabe profusely confesses he is not a "very good driver" as bethie and him got into a major crash today (that was an accident and had nothing to do with skill) and Gabe also learned how to "be a man" and think that blood was cool- primarially because I did not wish to go back in the house for a third time for band-aids! Bethie finally took a spill in shorts and proudly proclaimed that there were no busted knees (she only needed a band-aid for a blister on her foot)! that girl cannot stand the sight of blood at all! She is an instant "OMG I need a BAND-AID or else I will scream my head off stateing there is BLOOD" type child, such a girlie!

Well I suppose this isn't getting those 2 items done either!

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30
May
2006
What a Day!
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Morning started off with a grumpy hubby- no caffine as he had to go get his bloodwork done this am.

Then a major upset for Gabe... The stitches came out. By the time he was done screaming DON'T and AAARRRGGG!!! the doctor had 5 out, 2 to go... that was a chore!

Then a trip to the cemetary for the flowers, almost dead from lack of rain/water. So into the ground they went (with a lot of weed pulling!)

Then came the raspberries that needed to be transplanted. Dug with the mower, the drag etc. to get the weeds broken up in the new area. Almost broke my foot- did tear my good pants! but all 18 raspberries are now in our ground and not nanas!

In the midst of transplanting the raspberries, Gabe tried to hang himself (still uncovering the story) but suffice it to say, he was literally hanging from a tie down strap from the rafters, and off the enclosed trailer suspended in midair, shirt all streached out from the weight of his body in the neck area. SCARY!

Came inside after planting the raspberries, and Gabe needed a bandaid change- oozy and dirty/falling off... when going for the peroxide a stupid can of shaving cream falls out and upon my toe= another broken toe- 3 in less than 3 months!

Then after that is calm, turn to look and Stephen is prancing on the house/garage roofs and gutter! there is a ladder nearby and that is all he needed I guess for permission...

He also was in the well today (foundation forms are getting laid out for the cement to house the locked "well house"). Soon this will be a non-issue, and hopefully stop some of the bad bacteria from entering the well pit.

Had company for supper, got some studio work done- prep for tomorrows big chock full o' work studio day... I am so pooped, I can't even pop!

And to top it all off, I have a killer backache, as Gabe will not walk, as he thinks there is something in his foot (scar tissue)!



22
May
2006
Weekend update
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Saturday started out calm. Gave Gabe some poptarts, but evidentally he was in too much pain to eat (think he just wanted to see me get them...) so I set them on the footstool next to him. Stephen seemed to get a little overly buddy-buddy... but since the stitches were in, I assumed that some of this was "compassion", ya right!

looked over again and noticed something flying from his hand under the footstool... yep, no poptarts- real strawberry poptarts complete with soy protien and egg and sunflower oil...

that was the start of the day. Hives etc. afternoon brought M&M's (for Gabe as he wanted chocolate) all the time he bypassed his safe and usually likes bottlecaps. And a Choc. Chip cookie Gabe got Thurs. at the resteraunt...

Sunday brought more M&M sneeking... this time I caught him with them in his mouth and tried to finger sweep it out... too munched, in the process of walking to the garbage to spit them out, he swallows them on "accident". By this time he had had enough insult on his body that I was on the line about going to the hospital with him... it was borderline and benadryl did kick the reaction... but it was scary!

So being on Gabes beck and call, along with keeping watch over stephen (I didn't mention what he didn't eat because he got caught) and his behaviors from all this food.... ARG! and the sad thing, all of this was bought to make gabe feel better- his choice of "shopping" evidentally he has comfort foods...

Funny thing, when Stephen is confronted he states that the food tastes bad, he Knows he is going to get ill, etc. and I was trying to figure out what he gains from this behavior... I got it today I think- I think its the game of "lets see if I can get by with it without getting caught"... Funny thing, he can't not get caught, the hives are a dead give-away. Explained that to him this morning and I think he finally got it or at least I hope he did!



21
May
2006
Bummer of a day Friday...
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Gabe is just having bad luck... First he did not "graduate" (but he really did, see previous post) then friday night he was out riding his bike and fell... resulting in his worst nightmare- a trip to the ER.

Evidentally the hose clamp hubby put on his bike to attach a noisemaker (the cheap plastic one failed within hours and this was a sub. solution) lacerated the bottom of his foot quite nicely, right where most of the weight is carried when you walk, the center ball of his foot. 5 novicaine shots and 7 stitches later we had a kid that I now term as a "low pain threshold and not afraid to let you know he is suffering child".

3 new DVD's, plenty of treats, soda pop anytime he wants it and he still hollers at the slightest whim... "I want to go outside for a walk in the stroller, I want to go potty, I want to let you know something" he is bored just laying around with his foot up, I understand... but with no sleep (pain meds every 2 hours round the clock) I frankly am getting a little stressed LOL! this is worse than having a newborn!

leap pad only is interesting for 5 minutes, tho it takes me 10 to get it and the book he wants set up type thing...

Anyways jelousy abounds from his sibs, "why does he get ____?" and "we want your attention NOW".

On the otherhand I can totally sympathize as I have had similar when I stepped on a needle and had to have it cut out from about the same area...

So If I am absent for a while.. this is why... good thing is that he is now no longer in school so I don't have to carry him there!

Why don't they give little kids crutches???



18
May
2006
Quasi Graduation Day
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My sad face on Graduation Day
Well, today was my graduation day... why do I have the sad face you ask, because I was not asked to walk on stage and I was too good to just go and do it!


This morning Gabe graduated from preschool (see photos in the May 2006 photo album, which you can sort by order taken if you click the + by filename). Gabe did well singing the program as you can see but what you cannot see is that he never really graduated... I pumped him up for his big day and where was he??? He was left sitting with the little kids on the blankets while his class graduated. I yelled his name out, so loud all the audience looked at me trying to figure out why I was shouting, but the teachers never caught on that there was one kid missing from the stage.

I thought when they read the names out, pass out the diplomas etc. they will notice... NOPE, everything was set up for the quick get them through the ceramony way and no one noticed. Afterward I was a little torqued and did something I usually would not do, I went up to the teachers when it was all over and asked if I could have a hat and a diploma so we could take pictures at home, since he only watched his graduation... the teacher had the guts to laugh and say "well we usually miss a kid every year"... HUH? 36 years in BUSINESS and a kid a year... arg! So much for feeling sorry, I would hope that if that ever happened to me, the first year I would have devised a plan to make sure it never would have happened again- like read the names from a list or something... simple to implement, and no disappointed children. Obviously their business motto is not "we care" and makes me wonder how safe he was on all of his past months field trips??? was a kid lost there everytime also???

Asked Gabe why when he saw his whole class on stage did he not go up to join them, his anwser: "because the teachers did not tell me to, we were suppose to listen to where they said for us to go" UGH! He is such a good kid and to have this happen for LISTENING!

We went out for a celebratory lunch afterwards. That is where the photos with the diploma and cap were taken. I did take the liberty to delete his last name from his nametag, and I see it was obvious in some photos... sorry, but I have to be safe with the kids identitys...



18
May
2006
Writing about a $17 car wash and other stuff
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Talked to mom the last night. She is going to write a story about the $10 bill that flew out of my hand the other day and the car wash. The life and journey of that bill and the people it touches. (see mom, I put it here so you actually START to write it! you got the whole internet holding you accountable now!). Mom is an excellent artist, and loves to talk about writing this and that... never wrote anything yet... but this time she is going to start, right?

Had the goslings out in the grass last night, they loved to peck Hubbys wallet and shirt. they would come within 3 inches of my nose before I would move and send them off running... so cute

Gabe is having unexplained vomiting and its driving me nuts. Only common thread I can find is tomato and I don't want to go there at all... Or else he is having the longest tummy flu with plenty of feel good times in-between ex: he threw up Sun morning (slump sat. night) and again after school but before bus wed. (ketchup for lunch) and again before bed last night (saltines and sodapop) no clue on the last one just that he was OK to go out and play baseball in the middle... this is the kid that is knock down drag out sick on the couch if he is ill. No fever no nothin!

Better go wake him up and see how he is feeling... sad thing is that today is his graduation from preschool with a program and all.... hopefully he is doing better (like the baseball time) so that he can attend... ya I know bad parent exposing all the other kids to it, but I don't think its a tummy flu... if it is its an awfully long one with several "feel good" points in the middle... Stopping at the Dr.'s most likely this afternoon




17
May
2006
You know its rural life when the critters out number the people
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The other day, on the way to school, Gabe innocently asks me "mom how many pets DO we have?"... after clarifying if the chicks, ducks, geese, and fish were pets or not (they are) I decided we are feeding too many mouths here (LOL!)

here is the run down: 9 ducks, 4 chicks, 10 geese, 2 dogs, 4 cats, 5 fish... totals: 34!!! doesn't seem like that much when daily life is occuring tho!

We have one duck on a chicken nest that is loaded with eggs (about 20) and another duck sitting on a duck egg nest with (best count) of about 18 eggs. so depending on how many hatch that total could go up significantly.

Stephen had his school field trip yesterday, so lots of excitement around here. He was thrilled, and from his description, he was very good. Makes me proud!

Gabe and beth had their last "together" preschool yesterday. Looked over their yearly portfolio, Boy those kids have matured in 9 months! Bethie went from not being able to write anything identifyable in her name to writing her name totally recognizable. Gabe went from drawing a rude stick figure for a person (with the walmart smily face) to including shoulders, shoes, fingers, neck, ears, hair, and most times "unmentionables" or whats under them.... yep, last night in the resteraunt he drew nana complete with a penis! couldn't figure out that she don't have one of thems!

Still having that talk about artists study muscles and shadows and trying to capure the real shapes on paper but if he is drawing them for us to laugh (shock value) then it is wrong. Maybe someday he will draw them without the ton of giggles...



15
May
2006
broken leg kitten
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Last Night while it was raining out, I went outside to look at the goslings. I did NOT bring my coat, I did trust my kids.... Anyone here see where the mistake was???

I Left the kiddos in the house and told them "only a minute and I would be right back, just checking the geese, Stephen your in charge"... While out, the kitchen window was trying to break from Gabes pounding, Upon entering i hear something stupid like "wheres my toy?"

Next think I remember is asking "what happened to the cat?" as the only noise coming from the kitchen was the sound of a small hurt kitten... well after getting it to trust us, we get it out. holding it up yeilds the knowledge of a broken leg... very broken.

Of course Stephen doesn't know anything, but this time I trust him... he acted like he was zoneing as he had absolutely no clue of anything....

Gabe and Beth were laughing, running etc. but Bethie did take blame of "I kicked it and dropped it" but that is not her personality (she would love it to death like a baby bunny)... so validity in that is in question... either way, cat has a non working leg, and my kids did it. SO...

Taped up the cat leg. at first it couldn't walk, it was trying to twist midair and walk on front feet... kinda cute to watch... but anyway this morning yeilded a kitten on my kitchen floor aptly walking on 3 feet, playing with its sibling. The Crying has stopped. So it adapted, thats a good thing!

was hoping for that, or else it would have probably perished.

Now I know I cannot leave these kids for a minute alone!



14
May
2006
Shoulda had mothers day on Fri...
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Fridays post was so sweet and rosey... Reality set in this morning! Woke not to "happy Mothers Day" but to a child sneeking food under daddys desk, another one half sleeping on the couch. Use the restroom only to ask "who is sick?" as they never flush... yep, the one half sleeping. So mothers day greeted me with one about to puke and one puking (and only one had a legit excuse of the tummy flu). So the mothers day BBQ that was planned was postponed. Hubbys first gig at his dream job was canceled due to weather and we found ourselves with *nothing* to do... well almost...

We broke up fights and tried to find the livingroom again today. No one here seems to hear anything until an action is taken. Last night we had company till it was way late. The kids enjoyed the play pal that came and showed all 10,000 toys to her and the accompaning floor. Last nights warning that the house was clean and I expected it to look that way when they left fell on deaf ears, as well as the 30 or so times it was mentioned that night.

Today brought: "this isn't fair we didn't mess it all up ourselves" which was true but she would have helped IF they would have listened that night. SO being very nice I gave warnings all morning and early afternoon that it needed to be done (sometimes in a not nice tone so they KNEW I was serious...) and still at 4:00 nothing done. Brought out the garbage bags to "clean" it myself and then "WHOA, this is ours don't do it" and Stephen promised to fix it by being in charge and getting it done before the banana bars were done... Next out came the scoop shovel and garbage bags and tears, and 3/4 of the way done a new "deal" struck... If they cleaned it up before daddy came back I would see what I could do to not get them in the garbage- but the toys still had to be put in the garbage bags just in case... Well that one did get done (except Stephen watched TV and screamed I am doing it) so.... Bethie and Gabe now have only 2 toys for the next 3 days, and Stephen is the unlucky one to get nothing for the next 3 days to play with... Now mommy is the looser, as My Stuff will be the next play items! (those bags were taken out of the room and locked up, so there will be no "sneeking" available like they thought there would be). Amazing what a 10,000 play item free livingroom looks like! one can actually walk without hurting broken toes again!

Banana Bars- I made these Banana bars, doubled the recipe and put in a jelly roll pan. I frosted with a cream cheese frosting... Delish! Second time I have made them, and they have turned out great both times. Last time I used a powdered sugar frosting and I cannot decide which I like better, 'cept that I love cream cheese frosting anyways! Definitely a must keep. I used 6 bananas in the double batch and a jelly roll pan worked just great size-wise



12
May
2006
The sweetest mothers day gifts....
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The best gifts are those that come from the heart (or so I have heard...) and I got the bestest kids around!

Its been mothers day here since Wed. when each school does their little project. Wed. brought Gabe's petunia from school in a little plastic cup. That went on the kitchen counter with all the marigold, sunflower and bean seeds that were planted tuesday in another preschool. Thurs morning Bethie woke and while looking at gabes petunia she exclaims "mom look at my flower, it grew" wow! some marigold seeds, just over one day to turn into a fully grown and blooming petunia! LOL

Thurs brought Beth and Gabe's vases (salad dressing bottles with masking tape and shoe polish) and construction paper flowers (to match tues. kitchen counter filled containers of real seeds growing). And a card that was just adorable. The teacher used fill in the blank questions (their anwsers are in BOLD) like this:
My mom is (B- 8 G-100) years old; My mom is prettiest when (B- she is wearing a dress G- She is playing on the computer); My mom likes to make (B-cookies G-cake); My mom always says (B- I love you G- your so honnest); My mom is silly when she (b- giggles G- wears a funny hat). It was amazing on how different and truely reflective of their personalities these anwsers were.

And tonight... Gabe graduated from one preschool, Hubby is getting ready to fish and needed something from the superstore. While there we pass a table of books that have been discounted. Hubby spies a Stephen King book (my fav. author) and sneeks money and the book to stephen to go pay and give to me for mothers day... How sweet!

So having a good week here so far.

And I even managed to get the hallway paint/mastic Zip striped and scraped off the wall... so only the bathroom left to go! Then the floor, walls etc. have to get finished (and the custom tiles have to get made, fired, glazed and fired again...). so never a dull moment!



11
May
2006
This is good news... (I think...)
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In the New York Times this morning....

Defying the dire predictions of health officials, the flocks of migratory birds that flew south to Africa last fall, then back over Europe in recent weeks did not carry the deadly bird flu virus or spread
it during their annual journey, scientists have concluded.

...a significant finding for Europe, because it is far easier to monitor a virus that exists domestically on farms but not in the wild. "It is quiet now in terms of cases, which is contrary to what many people had expected,"



But then it goes on to say, essentially, that they know nothing, don't have a clue and it still could be coming. States that regulations are relaxing in europe, and then ends with a lake in Russia that they think is a constant source of contamination for the virus and the fact that the number of contaminated farms with the virus is NOT decreasing... go figure. totally left me on the fence!



11
May
2006
Geese, Haircuts, Kids Blogs
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Went to the "chicken store" this morning to check out a grill for hubby (thats a long story but the short of it is that he wanted a new one and Mothers Day a planned BBQ was the reason he needed to get one). While I was there with the youngins we looked at the chickens, ducks and geese (and pheasent and bunnys etc). And this guy who seemed to know we had poulty, even tho hubby is the one that usually goes in to get chix feed (as those bags are heavy)... said "if you take these geese I will give you a deal, they are usually $8 each, for you I will go $5" so I agreed to 4 geese. When we get home, I being the lover of deals, think... ummm, a few bucks each to feed them (I googled for info) and w**mart had ducks for $10... maybe this isn't such a bad idea. Called around to make sure I had some buyers and then called back and took the rest- so now we have 10 geese which WILL be butchered, even though hubby likes to have everything as pets (his reasoning is that if he feeds them he cannot kill them, my reasoning is that geese can be nasty and we have kids- HA I win, just that my bro will most likely be the "bearer of bad news" to them geese.

So kids excited on that front. We all got our haircuts today, and I scheduled my annual "lightening" of my hair, which is good since my sister-in-law pointed out last weekend that I had GRAY hair! Hopefully it will cover some! I am trying to grow my bangs out, so Allison (the beautician) french braided it into 2 braids to get the bangs out of my eyes. I am feeling a little exposed since I have always had hair on my forehead!

My feet hurt from shopping, being outside this evening, walking to the bakery to double check "safe bread" ingredients. Did too much for a broken toe's foot (since that throws my gait off). I updated the kid's websites to include their latest drawings. Stephen is reluctant to write lately- he would rather play PC games while mommy thinks he is writing... So for the moment I am letting him draw on paper and unknown to him is the fact that he always writes a little tidbit on his drawings for the viewer, so he is getting some writing practice. Gabe was amazed that I could get his paper into the computer (scanning it) so he went all out! I wrote explainations on his papers and I missed one, so that one is typed out below it. ENJOY (the link is on the right for the kid's blogs)



09
May
2006
Inspiration needed/ Bird Flu Movie
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Just took a break. I am trying to sit here and figure out a plan of attack. I could do A or I could do B. I hate being on the fence post!

Such a beautiful day outside. I am sitting out on the deck listening to the birds tweet. I saw an unusual bird today at the finch feeder. It was small like the goldfinches but this one was BLUE, with black and reddish brown. like a patchwork quilt it was. Huge chunks of color differences. Whatever it was it ate thistle seed (niger seed).

The asparagus patch seems dismal this year, but I think it is because the quantities needed to feed increased since we first started picking it (2+a toddler to now 5 healthy eaters)! Rhubarb needs picking and after Sunday at my mother-in-laws, I really need to find a good rhubarb bar like she had... man that was good! Tried to talk hubby into talking to the neighbors to get the garden disked up... but his reply was that it was too wet to do so now. :( I definitely have the garden bug.

(phone call interupted, then life, its now late at night and I am back in the house)

Watched bits and pieces of the "bird flu" movie... is it just me or were these people stupid?

* 1) the nurse could not keep on her mask- I would have it by my front door and anytime I wasn't in my house it would be on...


* 2) I keep hearing about drive thru groceries, vets getting their vaccines in their autos out in the parking lots... why in the heck is there gyms filled with people without masks??? doesn't make sense

* 3) there have been times due to finances or just my distaste to shop for groceries that we HAVE lived for 6 weeks without shopping (barring milk and my needs- soda/chocolate) and MY cupboards have never been that bare, even when we had nothing to eat- do these people not cook???

* 4) people are dying, why would you a) rush to where someone has just died in the locked down area and potentially infect yourself and b) give mouth to mouth to said person, I mean he is dead and oh, now you are too!



I personally am more worried about MONEY, since no one will be working here and getting paid for it and the "basics" like electrical and heat (esp. if it is Jan!). We do have a well so water isn't an issue, but heat would be nice in the winter, as would electricity. I noted the fridge still had a light in the movie, no one seemed to have utility issues- though bottled water seemed to sell well... I wonder who is doing the upkeep on the systems when all the workers are sick



08
May
2006
Tech and Kids
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Boy, pretend play has come along ways since I or my parents were kids.

This morning I overhear Bethie pretending to be on the phone- her usual "hello, Barbie, Yep its a party, you coming?" that type thing when I hear Gabe scream out "No Beth, It's a TEXT, press send!"

Now some of my generation knows how to text. My mother and (I think) my father would not have a clue... let alone my grandparents. But the 17/18 year olds that work here definitely know how to text and evidentally my kiddos are learning too!

The other day was another funny. We were out fixing the well when my phone rang. I answer it, after seeing it was hubby calling- and he was there with me in the well, he evidently left his phone in the house. "hello mom, I can't get a drink of water"... OK the 5 year old (Gabe) can call on a cell phone to his mom, but cannot get a drink of water.... is this a good thing or a bad thing??? LOL



07
May
2006
Monday ALREADY?
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Where oh where did the weekend go???

Seems like nothing was accomplished, even tho it was, it still feels like I needed 20 or more hours!

Went to grandmas house today, came home with a broken toe. Oh well, this is the second time I broke a toe there in as many visits. One of those blessed things about osteoporosis... Last time I caught a chair leg, this time I opened the door on my foot. Its a good thing I am used to broken toes :)

after we were home we watched a stupid kid movie until they all went to sleep. Then I went to the studio to work for a bit. I just emerged. I thought it was much later than it was, funny how one can loose track of time when they are having fun! Anyway I did something I wasn't intending on doing, it just sprung forth. that's cool. Time will tell if it is a "saver" or a "recycler"....

This week looks pretty calm. We have haircuts but that is about it. So maybe I can get back on schedule in the studio. This cold I think has finally met its match and on the outs as I feel better today- well with the exception of the toe, but that is different.



06
May
2006
wasted day
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I have to be feeling better, as I spent the whole day sleeping! LOL

So, the house is distroyed, nothing got done and I wasted the whole day away. what little I was awake for was the *hopefully* final fixing of the well. When it flooded a few weeks ago, most of the mechanics were replaced or repaired. Now it seems the connections to the pipes (hose clamps and things) just couldn't handle a steady flow of pressure or something... so yesterday was one fix, then today the fix that seems to hold (and made it fixed correctly). The good news, the yesterday fix didn't work on the well, but did work on the basement leak, so there was no money lost.

Kids must be sick also... as Bethie slept for so long this afternoon it was strange, and Gabe was more than content to "knock off" early, as well as Stephen- tho he had a reason, he seemed to think all the gummy bears and hersheys chocolates were safe for him today. So he was "in a mood" most of the day, hiving in the morning, behaviors this evening.

Well, there is not much to write as I slept all day, now I have to try to get some laundry, dishes and studio work done that did not get done today, and tomorrow we are going to be gone in the evening.



06
May
2006
Out of 6 I was the only one not lost
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Last night the school had its fundraiser. It is really cool, as the kids get to play games and eat and whatever while the parents try to find the kids (YEP, 3 adults, 3 kids; at one time 1 adult had lost all the other kids and adults- but the other adults were looking for kids!)

I have to quit saying "stay by me or when its time to leave I am going to leave without you". At the end, we had a few tickets left, and no more patience.. So I sent the kids on a mission to get cotton candy and a can of soda. Boys run, bethie follows. She has been there several times- as it is Stephens Lunch room and we seem to go in there quite frequently to bring in bread, cookies etc. Anyway, somehow the boys ditched her in all the people, or she fell or whatever. The next thing she knows she looks up and there are no boys no moms etc. She panics and we loose her. We all get to the lunchroom to find the boys but no sissy. well the search is on. When she doesn't show in a few more minutes I start searching "locally" as to stay where the ending spot is. I tell the boys to "stay put and look for beth" while I go out in the hall to the cakewalk game. Returning after telling them to be on the lookout for a 4 year old in a dress (described). I find the boys gone. Great, no one but me looking for all the lost souls or so it felt!

Get the phone out to call (all of us adults had cell phones). and in walks gabe. YA IN, he was out in the "test drive a car" area which abuts the playground area... well that clued me in to where Stephen was, but then do I dare leave in case Bethie comes by? Gabe goes out and gets Stephen and for once Stephen listens. Immediately Stephen and Gabe get put into a sitting position on the floor in an area I can control.

Then call Hubby, then as soon as I find him, over comes Tracy with bethie in her arms... She went to the main doors (opposite direction) looking for us to leave. OH felt so sorry for her. Tears streaming down her face thinking we left.

She got her pop and cotton candy THEN we left.



05
May
2006
thoughts and wonderings
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Another one of those school, school, school days. Kids will be happy later today as there is a "special kid happening" at the school tonight that we will be attending... and supper will be hot dogs, bbq, and cotton candy...

I got garden plants delivered yesterday. of course this a.m. the television is talking freeze warnings (figures). I think the field work is lagging slower than normal also. must just be an odd year. Wonder what summer has in store. Spring brought more moisture than normal- does this mean more heat this summer or severe weather. The way the weather has been lately I highly doubt it will be one of those unremarkable temperate summers that make activities so much more enjoyable.

I caught a cold this past week. I am thinking it most likely was the dreaded respitory flu. Never have I had a cold that has hit me so hard. Usually this time of year I sneeze and have to wonder "cold or allergies". Not this time! this time there was no doubt. fevers, chills, sore back from coughing and sneezing. Boxes of kleenex gone. uffda. hopefully the light at the end of the tunnel comes soon as this is getting old quick!

Been reading other peoples blogs lately. my favorite blog is SEB blog as I love his "non-athiest" posts and thinking. I also was led through google to another blog article that dealt with the spanish version national anthem translation. That one had a point that made you say hmmm. That one quoted Bush saying it should be in english, then the writer had the point of saying when is Dubba going to learn to speak it. Found it realistically funny, tho dis'ing the pres. is prob. not cool...

oops, just saw the time. Schools waiting, kids need to get up



03
May
2006
Recipe review
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Doing a few food reviews tonight.

Stephanie was here, Stephen was in a mood... so to settle him down they baked. First they started off with the applesauce oatmeal cookies using the dried apples instead of raisens/craisens. The cookies were soft inside but outside the oatmeal was more like granola. Not a very yummy cookie to me. Stephen liked them as they were different than what he was used to. I noticed some "just a bite left" cookies laying around (enough to know that it was both Beth and Gabe and maybe Stephen too). Don't think a "normal diet" person would seek out these cookies... but if you were on a limited diet, these may be good for a change.

Next they made Linzer torte bars using the mexican wedding cake cookie dough as the base. THESE WERE DELISH! A typical eater would go and make them... actually I would make them again in a heartbeat and did recommend them immediately to my mother to try them out... These are really good. While eating them Stephanie and I thought that Peach Preserves would be a good choice too. The cookie dough turned out a little crumbly, but that is norm for this dough. We baked them in a 9x13 pan (my error in remembering size). but it worked just fine with the amount of dough. The Jam jar is over 2/3 a cup gone- more like double that amount was used. She kept in the vanilla and did not use the cinnamon. THEY WERE GOOD. I would not change a thing (well except maybe to try the peach, cherry etc. preserves!)



02
May
2006
feels like I did too much today!
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My joints ache... busy day

Started off with trying to get work done- that didn't work because Gabe decided first thing this morning he was going to clean and organize the silverware drawer (strange kid, I know!). He kept bugging me for a box to put everything in. Well, dishes are done, all the silverware ended up being rewashed and freed of dishwasher hard water scum, and all the good silver has been removed from the drawer as well as the baby and toddler learning silverware (which haven't been used in how long???)

Did get 2 kids down to nap (and I napped- getting over a cold wipes me out!). Worked on the website some more, weeded the flower bed, checked the asparagus (1 6" tall stalk so soon...) and the rhubarb, which is totally ready to be picked.... Planted a rose, reset the trellis for the morning glories and moon flowers to climb.

and gee, I just thought I was over-reacting and really did nothing, it just felt like it... Still have to get back down to the studio, for time sensitive pieces. And its a good thing to do while waiting for laundry... which is way more than I want to do!!!

Bethie today went out in the mud. Came inside looking like a coal miner, then proceeded to put on her Easter dress and heels. She could not figure out why we were so upset about it, after all she had on her pretty WHITE dress!

Gabe had fun blowing bubbles in the wind without blowing at all. It was fun to watch him just hold out his hand and all them bubbles fly! (kinda made up for the bubble refill mess he made in the entryway!)

Well, laundry is awaiting! (ya right!)

Archives

30
Apr
2006
"Midnight Snack"
Posted by 3malesandalady under General
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I did the usual Sunday dinner- Pork roast, potatoes and gravy, veg, and a fruit. No one said "gee this tastes good!"

Tonight right before bed the kiddos decide they needed a snack before bed. Instead of dragging out the cereal and milk I opt for PB and J sandwiches (just J for Stephen). Upon getting seconds Bethie looks at me with these big blue eyes and states "mommy you're a good cooker!"

Made my day... Never did I think I would be known for PB and J tho!



30
Apr
2006
Rain and hand-me downs
Posted by 3malesandalady under General
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Rain Rain go away,
Spare my basement another day...

Watched water start to seep last night from a "not normal" spot. The cistern area usually leaks a little (straight to the drain) when the water table rises above the crack in the wall. Last night both