We prepare...

Well I am happy to say that there is life beyond these four walls. We headed to M-town a little after 12 to run our errands. Our first stop was Lennox to pick up a couple of expense checks. Then we ran to the Post Office to send a package to Andy and Sara. Can you believe the USPS had the nerve to close at NOON! I was surprised but we went to a HyVee Drug Store and sent it through them. It may not leave town until Wednesday but I sent it priority so they should have it by Friday or Saturday. It just didn't make sense to take it to Indy to send since that would make it three states further than right next door. Trying to think ahead.

We also hit Fareway for some groceries and Applebees for lunch! YUMMO! We decided to eat big and late so we won't hear our tummies at church. Mass is at 6:00, we should probably get there by 5:30. We are having spaghetti for dinner after since it is quick and filling. We should all sleep like logs, I hope so!

Well, I think the stocking gifts have not been wrapped yet and I should start a load of laundry before we leave. Housework never ends, even on the holiday.

Merry Christmas Eve to All!

I understand hibernation!

I can totally understand the concept of hibernation. Sleeping through winter really does make a lot of sense. No need to shovel the front walk or even prepare Christmas dinner. I would miss seeing all my friends and family but I am sure I would dream about you!

Unfortunately or fortunately none of the Bakers are "full" enough to sleep that long. We all need to eat a couple of meals a day so we must get out of bed.

Well I am glad to report that everyone ate at least two meals today and some ate three with snacks. The boys tried to go outside to play (against my better judgement/warning) and lasted about 10 minutes. The wind nearly took Will's sled to the next county and from the redness on each boys' face I'd say they were pretty close to windburn. The westerly wind whipping the light snow around reminded me of a sandstorm in the desert. We were only 100 degree colder than a desert here in IA.

I did a little more wrapping and organizing for the trip east. I played some more with my Cricut and was able to finished up a couple of scrapbook pages that had been "in progress" for far too long.

We are planning to leave the house tomorrow. Fred should have a couple of expense checks waiting for him at work and I need to get a few groceries. I would also like to know that there are other people alive in IA. A little fresh air will do us all some good.

We have continued to open presents pre-Christmas. I think this may become a new tradition. My mother was always bothered by the flurry of wrapping paper on Christmas morning and the fact that we always missed reactions because there was so much going on at the same time. The process of slowing down, selectively choosing which gift to open, taking turns to watch that gift be opened and enjoying the gift has been really satisfying. I say that as a giver and receiver. I am glad to not be overwhelmed on Christmas morning. It will make prepping for the drive a little easier. I hope.

Well tomorrow we will make a birthday cake for Baby Jesus and some cookies for Santa. We'll go to M-Town and be home in time to go to Church at 6:00. It should be a very fulfilling day.

Another Snow Day

We were snowed in again today. Probably could have made it out in the AM but wasn't dressed for it so we stayed in. We putzed, played and watched some shows off the DVR. The afternoon went quickly and we all sat down to a tasty dinner. I had made a couple of meatloaves last month and defrosted one for tonight. It was enjoyed by all.

After dinner we took a clean-up break then opened more presents. Nic selected a hooded sweatshirt, Will chose to unwrap a PS2 game of FIFA Soccer, Fred opened his fancy new razor and I got three new Target Cubes for my scraproom. Fred put two of them together for me and I set out to reorganize some of my scrap space. I think I may take the third cube back the set-up with 8 cubes works for me pretty well.

The boys seemed extra cranky tonight so they went to bed a little early for a Saturday. Hopefully we will all wake up tomorrow and see the snow as pretty. Pete may not since there is a HUGE drift in his bathroom but I'll bribe the boys to shovel him a path tomorrow.

No church tonight. I have missed three out of four weeks of Advent for weather related issues. Two were canceled by Fr. Rick and the other week I was in bad weather coming home from Ankney and didn't make it back in time. Hopefully it will all be clear so we can get to Christmas Eve service at 6:00PM.

Off to crash! Nighty night!

What a day...

I crashed at 8:30 PM last night. Got the boys through showers than doped up on NyQuil and tucked myself in. Fred took care of the boys. At least I assume he did. I got them up and going this morning and I was feeling a bit refreshed and ready to face the day. Fred ran the AM routine while I showered so I could drive through the fog to get them to school. After I dropped the boys off I ran to the HS. Can't remember why but REALLY wish I hadn't.

While I was there the secretary told me that I needed to go see the controller type person in the Superintendent's office. Was hoping to get a raise but got quite the opposite. She told me that the CSD had not taken SSI and Medicare for the majority of 2007. Well, they decided in order to clean up the books for 2007 and issue me a proper W-2 they needed to take the money out of this check. Well, the sum of monies owed left me with a VERY small check and I was stunned into silence. I ran home to get some meds for my cold and dropped the bomb on Fred that I was a little short this month. About $500+ short. UGH!

I ran out the door again to take S to work and hoped that it would all be better when I got done. Well, Fred worked the phones and found out that I had to live with it. They may not have done it the best way but it needed to be done. UGH!

Fast forward to later in the day when I went to school again to drop off some things to my girls. I broke down like a blubbering idiot and they were GREAT! I love my gal pals.

I came home this afternoon from getting the boys and decided to take the three garbage bags of cans to recycle. Then I topped off the wonderful parenting that I have done this week and bought McDonald's for an early dinner. They were satisfied. The evening went smoothly and I snuck in a nap. I was pretty exhausted from the emotional turmoil of the day.

I awoke hungry and a bit more chipper. Fred and I had talked about mixing up Christmas a bit this year. I was concerned that we would open presents on the 25th and would run out on the 26th and there would be so little time to have so much fun. I asked Fred what he thought about having Christmas tonight or tomorrow. He counter proposed opening a present each night. I accepted and we tore in. Each person got to choose a gift and we each took turns. The weather is supposed to be nasty again tomorrow so we now each have a little something new to keep us out of trouble. Will picked a PSP game, Nic got a DS game, Fred received a digital photo frame and I was blessed with 5 Cricut cartridges! Fred really does spoil me.

Well, the angst of today is history and I am so glad that it has ended on a good note. I can't wait to play with the cartridges and start using my Cricut a little more.

We made it... almost

The boys woke up less than happy this morning and I was sure I was going to be home today. Once Nic got up and moving his rash did not look that bad. I took his temp and he had none. Will was complaining of a sore throat so we took his temp too. Both clear. They went to school. No one forgot their shoes or lunch or homework and the morning went well.

Just as K and I got to work this afternoon I got a call from the school nurse. She sounded annoyed and said I needed to come and get Nic and I needed to get him looked at by a Dr. before he could come back to school. I hung up, finished what K and I were working on, apologized for leaving early and ran back to the HS to explain why K was done early and to sign myself out for the day.

I ran to the elementary, grabbed both boys and we ran by the house before the back to back 3:30-3:45 appt. with the Dr. He swabbed Will's throat to check for Strep, Negative! He chalked his throat pain to a virus. He took a little longer with Nic guessing maybe Fifths Disease, I thought that was a baby/toddler thing. He said let's call it a viral rash (just what First Nurse said) and said he could go to school if he didn't have a temp over 100.0. Sounded fair to me.

We ran to K-Mart got a couple of things, ate a quick dinner at the K-Cafe and headed home to get the homework done. I ran to town to finish my Christmas Shopping for the ladies at school then home to bake banana bread to share. YUM. Too bad I only have enough bananas to make loaves for work. Guess I'll make some for us later.

Here's hoping that no one will pop up with a fever tonight and that I will be able to be at work tomorrow to share these goodies. Now I need to iron a shirt for Fred and check the loaves. Goodnight!

This is MY life!

So I talked to my amazing sister Jen today. Thanks for calling. My crabby 9 year old was in the middle of a fit but left long enough for me to get through my conversation with her. We had a nice chat then Nic and I had a nice chat and it was all better! Yeah!

He got his math homework done, we had PB&J for dinner and got ready for the Elementary Music Concert. The boys looked spiffy and we headed off. My pal Vicki saved me a seat and the boys did a great job. After the concert I noticed a redness to Nic's face. It was a little splotchy and I asked a neighbor what she thought. He immediate response was try a little Benadryl. We did that. Easy enough.

Just went to go check on Nic as I was heading to bed and the rash is WAY worse, all over his face! I called the First Nurse line and was informed that it is likely a viral rash. UGH! I could expect a fever, maybe some diarrhea, maybe this explains the crabby attitude after school. Well, the good news is the Fred is in town this week and we are both more off than at work on Thursday and Friday. Bad news is that it is only Monday and he could be totally better by then. So what do we do in the meantime? Well, I could likely be home tomorrow and I have put in an early bid for Fred to stay home on Wednesday. We are doing Christmas at school on Wed and I REALLY don't want to miss it!

Well Jen, you asked for an up-date. Aren't you so glad you asked! Love YA! Call the house tomorrow, I may be home.

TGIF! Bring on the WEEKEND!

I am so glad it is FRIDAY!

#1 reason to be glad is the Fred is coming home. He is actually in IA and on his way north. My bed has been VERY cold this week without my hubby the space heater.

#2 reason to be glad is the because of the shorter school week I am not totally exhausted and am perky enough to attack my house tonight, do some laundry and kind of get a jump on the weekend chores.

#3 reason is the since today is Friday then tomorrow is SATURDAY and I am going scrappin for the better part of the day. My monthly scrap group can not get together on Fridays for the next few months because of basketball games. The alternative is an all-day crop on Saturday. We are also doing a Secret Santa/Sister exchange so I get to give and receive a gift tomorrow. I LOVE PRESENTS! (Did you know this about me? I am ALWAYS the first one up on Christmas morning:) I almost love giving as much as receiving. I love to hit it when gifting and this year I am pretty excited about a few of the presents I have selected. There are some lucky people on my list this year!

This afternoon we took care of class gift exchange gifts. The $3 price range can be tough but Will came up with something that should be well received. Nic had $5 limit and he too found something fun and not junky. Of course they are things that they themselves want. I am sure they would have no problem with picking their own gifts in the exchange.

We also came up with a gift for a b-day part Nic is going to tomorrow. We bought the kid a Rubik's Cube. Can you believe that when I was 10 this was the hot gift and just 16 years later it is making a HUGE comeback? (Do the math on that one.)

OK off to finish Chex Mix to take tomorrow for nibbling. I may make some Pay Day too. It doesn't take more than a few minutes. Way easier than spritz cookies.

HAPPY FRIDAY TO ALL!

Look what we are taking to Granny's house...

Make room mom!

SNOW DAY!

I got the call way too early this morning that we were out for a snow day. It gets me up long enough to call the next guy on the calling tree and put the dog out. Then I went back to sleep. YEAH me! The boys woke on their own around 8 and so began our day. We have been bums but I have also played a rousing game of Monopoly Junior, done a load of laundry, vacuumed the ENTIRE house, even behind the dryer, and am currently trying to declutter some papers that seem to be reproducing on their own. The boys are taking some time to play in the bitter cold. We had an electronic morning and an electronic free afternoon. We even took some time to make ornaments for Granny's tree. Will liked my idea and Nic ran an entirely different but cool direction. I'll try to post some pics later.

Once I get the boys back in I think we'll head in to town to vote on the bond issue for the new middle school. My neighbor, the middle school principal, called earlier to offer me a ride but said I had to promise to vote yes. I think I'll drive myself. I was going to ride in with some other neighbors and leave my boys at their house but the road doesn't look very bad so I may as well drive myself.

Off to check the boys for frostbite. Maybe I'll post more later.

Where do I surrender my Driver's License?

Yes, I think it is time. I will buy a horse and a wagon and we'll give up the van! So yesterday I headed to Ankney to do maybe the last of my shopping. There was snow in the forecast but I can handle snow. Well, the freezing rain that was supposed to show up after midnight was on eastern Europe time and showed up at 4. This was the same time I was leaving Ankney hoping to be home for 5PM mass. Well, that was not going to happen. I stopped 8 times between Ankney and home to scrape my window. I had just purchased wiper fluid at Target but the exit points on my hood and rear window were all frozen. The defroster, on 90 degrees, was only giving me about 6 inches of clear window. It was terrible.

I was not alone on the road, plenty of people were doing the exact same thing. I stopped at the only two gas stations between here and there and saw some of the same people. I was calmed by the fact that I had my cell phone and a radio station full of Christmas songs, although I did have to turn that off because it was too distracting. I was so intent on the road in front of me that I missed the turn off for my house. As I saw my neighborhood go by I went up to the next street and doubled back. I was VERY glad to get home in one piece but was sad that I had missed mass for another week (last week it was cancelled due to the ice storm).

Today we are home and enjoying the warmth of being together. Laundry is moving through the process and I now need to think about dinner. I wish I had stew meat. Maybe a yummy homemade pizza will hit the spot. Time to go get input.

Quote of the day

"Your life is an occasion, rise to it." Mr. Magorium

Goodnight!

Is this becasue I didn't forward that proverb e-mail?

Can this week get worse? Maybe I shouldn't have asked that. First and foremost! My husband is on route home from spending a few days in TX this week. He was supposed to arrive in DesMoines around 1 PM. That would be the exact time that the epicenter of a nasty snowstorm also hit DSM. His plane was diverted AHEAD of the storm to Cedar Rapids. The pilots and controllers were to decide in a few hours about trying to get to DSM yet tonight. Fred, not being one to sit still very long, opted to rent a car and drive to DSM to get his car and head home. He just called from I-80 to announce that he was slowed significantly. Thank God for the Internet, I was able to check road conditions and inform him that there was a traffic accident about 5 miles ahead that had closed I-80. He may choose to bypass DSM and come home for the night or he may take the detour and go slowly along his path. Either way I pray that he is safe and warm and so are the others traveling tonight.

Today was not my day when it came to the darn driving gig. I kinda have a love/hate relationship with cars this week. My whole life really. I love the freedom that a car gives me. Not that I take advantage too often but I could if I wanted. I have never lived in a place that I had to rely on public transportation. I probably would not do well in a place like that. Anyhow, earlier in the week I had that battery issue, all better now though. Today was a new issue in the School Bus that I drive. Yeah, you heard that right.

The School Bus is actually a white minivan. S and I use it everyday to get from school to work and back. Today I was a little concerned about the weather and upon moving onto the on-ramp I realized that I did not have my cell phone on my person. (I tend to drive with my cell close at hand because I have an unfounded fear that if I do get into an accident my purse will be thrown about and I would never find my phone to call for help.) So, I decided to pull onto the very wide shoulder to get my phone from my bag and put it in my pocket. Well, that wide shoulder was nothing but ice. I slid right over the shoulder into the grass and hit a reflector in the process lodging the metal stake under the van. UGH! I dug out my phone and called the bus barn for help. Reluctantly they sent back-up and Mr. R helped me dislodge the van and he followed me back to school. We arrived safely and found out that the snow that we drove into on the way was allowing an early out for school. THANK GOD! I was so tense from the slide off the road that I probably would have asked to come home anyway. I was done for the day.

The boys and I got home safely and will remain here until tomorrow barring any issues Fred may have. I tried to rest but I am pretty worked up about my day. Wish I could take a pill tonight to help me rest but maybe hot apple juice with mulling spices will be a good substitute. Please pray that tomorrow goes better than today. Off to make dinner for the boys and me.

John and I made cookies!

That would be John Denver and his pals the Muppets. I jammed to their Christmas album this afternoon and made my first batch of spritz cookies of the season. YUM! I was a little worried because I am low on sugar and flour and the new spritz cookie press I bought this Summer was being a little finicky but we overcame the challenges and came out with tasty cookies! They turned out well enough that I will share some with the neighbor who helped with my dead battery yesterday. Thanks Tracey!

Today the car started without incident. The drive to M-town and back went off without a hitch today and I was able to attend the Character Counts assembly at the elementary today. Nic's grade was doing a song about the pillar for this month, caring, and Will won an award for the pillar of last month, trustworthiness. It was splendid all around.

Well, we are going to run to Bailey's for a celebratory dinner then off to religious ed. for the boys and the store for me. Stay warm!

Take time to create and watch out for the ice!

Tonight, after I put the boys in bed, I ran down to my scraproom to work on some VERY important projects. I have big plans for some homemade Christmas Gifts and I really need to get crackin. Of course the items I want to make are things I have never made before, no time like the present to live and learn, so I need to try some things out. If you are lucky you will not receive my first attempt at anything. I lifted this idea from a Stampin' Up rep, Carolyn, and have seen many versions of altered clipboards on message board that I am a member of.

With all truthfulness, my first attempt didn't turn out half bad. This is my second attempt at an altered clipboard. I covered it in patterned paper then mod podged over the top. This one could probably use a couple more coats but I want to take it to work and show it off tomorrow. I have a few blank canvases that I bought last month that I need to get busy with too. Not sure where I am going with them but my original plan was a piece of art for each boy's room. We'll see...

I have found that I get a great amount of satisfaction from taking time to create. I love decorating for the holidays (creating an atmosphere), I love making sweet things in my kitchen (creating calories), and I love creating in my "studio/scraproom." Maybe in my next life I'll be an artist?

I am soooo glad that today is over and that it has ended on such a great note. I headed out the door to school today only to find that my car battery was dying a slow death. I called my neighbor and he was willing to help but had no jumper cables. He came over to my garage where I had been unable to find the cables and found them IMMEDIATELY. Embarrassing! We had to push the van out of the garage to get close enough to connect but with patience he helped me through a rough patch.

Once I got to school all things were good, including a second breakfast that consisted of spaghetti at 8:45AM. After 2nd hour I took S to work as usual. On the way there the windshield wiper went wacko on me and on the way back it was no longer functioning. Finally, when I had reached the safe-haven of school again, I had another van mishap! I was trying to back-in to a parking space, something I do everyday I drive the van, and managed to get myself on a section of the ice-covered parking lot that had absolutely pristine ice. Well, as I was pulling forward to straighten out I found myself spinning my wheels in the middle of the parking lot unable to move. I crawled out of the van, hoping no one had just seen and slipped into school. I found my pal Jan at lunch and told her the story. She laughed with me and the principal offered to move the van for me and call the bus barn about the non-functioning wiper. I am sure that many people will laugh at my misfortune, me included, and I have learned to watch the ice and continue to back into parking spaces because you never know when you'll need a jump!

Goodnight all.

Brrr

Well, the boys had a challenging day at school even though we all got released at 1:00PM. There was some confusion about the rules requiring snow pants on the playground and seeing as the entire play surface was covered in ice there were lots of slips and slides and some pushing to add to the fun. Well, when we got home the boys really wanted to play outside on their own terms. Fair enough. We had time to spare.

Check out these happy campers!

After they came in and got warmed up we jumped in the car and headed to Ames to get some shopping done that we missed out on Saturday because of the ice. We desperately needed milk and I wanted to take care of the angel tree gifts we needed. The boys were troopers at Hobby Lobby with me and so I tried to be patient at Target with them. Nic was suddenly complaining of a pain in his leg and shoulder so our trip ended pretty quickly. A quick stop at Sam's for milk and gasoline and the necessary pretzel and we were headed home.

Nic had a ton of homework and Will just wanted to veg so it all happened. I made some pumpkin muffins for Nic and I to nibble on this week then all the sudden it was time for bed. Daddy called to say goodnight and then the house was quiet. Amen!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

Check out the first ornament on the advent calender, gently placed by Will. Thanks buddy!

Well, the snow, rain, ice and freezing rain all showed up in central IA today. I woke around 8, I know I was pretty amazed that Pete lasted that long, and let Pete out in the freezing rain. He didn't stay out too long. I tried to go back to sleep but the noise from the rain kept me awake. Even so the boys woke a bit later and the day began. The day of nothing. Well, I did talk to my sister long enough to identify the Christmas tree from my mom's last year. Not sure if I identified it correctly but I did have photographic evidence so that helped. Jen also gave me a little grief about my blogging lately. I guess my life hasn't been exciting enough for her. Well, such is life here I suppose.

Actually yesterday was quite happening! Fred turned the big 40. It was less than overwhelming, just the way he likes it. I gave him his present, a PSP, about a month ago so I didn't even have anything to wrap for him. I did order Omaha Steaks and twice baked potatoes for dinner and a friend of mine made this amazing dessert for us and delivered it hot and ready. I would call that a success. He got calls from his mom, my mom, my brother and his sister to wish him a happy. He felt the love.

Another highlight of yesterday was that I was able to play school secretary. Our very capable secretary had to leave early and I had a few empty periods so I stepped in. Well, I usually go to work with K in the afternoon but that fell through so I ended up in the secretary chair all afternoon. It was a fun change of pace. I think I would really like a job like that some day, good to know all the kids, but our Tammy is not going anywhere.

Well enjoy these pics of our holiday decor. I'll try to come up with some excitement this month to share with anyone who is still reading/listening. Hi Jen!

Excuses excuses

Monday was another Migraine Monday. I really hate that special day. I think it was brought on by a combination of factors including the bitter cold weather around here, hair hurt from a ponytail that may have been too tight (only a girl can understand hair hurt) and the stress of going back into the trenches after five glorious days with little to no schedules and LOTS of good food.

Tuesday was rough because I stayed up past my bedtime to watch DWTS Finale to see who won. I was pleased with the results and so were the boys. I let them watch the announcement today before school so they would be "in the know" for conversations over the water fountain and at recess.

Today was so cold! I just wanted to curl up under my cat blanket and take a nap after school. So I did. Nic was distracting himself from doing his homework and kept trying to talk to me so I figured I'd help the guy out and take a nap, no one to talk to then. It worked like a charm until... Nic came upstairs with a play dough set with play dough stuck in it. Usually play dough is a highly supervised activity. I don't think we have even played with it since we moved. I am afraid to look in the junior man cave for fear of the mess I might find. My plan is to check it out tomorrow. That way if there is a play dough mess it will be hardened and we'll just have to throw it away. Too bad. (please note the sarcasm in that last sentence)

I managed to get the boys a ride to religious ed with the teenagers across the street. With their help I was able to spend a solid hour on laundry and family Christmas cards. I only need about 5 more hours but that should be easy to find in my wide open schedule. HA HA HA! I guess I could type the letter tonight and be that much farther in the process. Off to type the first draft!

Laundry, Christmas Cards and Beef Stew!

That is pretty much the results of my day. I did also iron 7 shirts, chat with my mom who is back on land after cruising for the last week, and helped my boy Nic with some homework. I also had an IM chat with my brother utilizing his new web cam and read some stuff from my "pile." Now I need to clean up dinner dishes and get the boys cleaned and pressed. I may even get to watch Extreme Home Makeover in real time. I was so behind that yesterday I had a little mini-marathon and watched 3 episodes back to back. Once I skipped through all the commercials it only took like 90 minutes. I still have about 5 more episodes but with Dancing With the Stars ending this week I'll be able to squeeze them in I'm sure.

Toodles!

It's only Saturday. YEAH!

I must admit that we were bums today with a capital B. I got up early to see Andy and Sara off toward home. They left around 8 and I went back to bed. The boys are so good at being self sufficient these days that it makes it nice on days that I stay up too late the night before.

We got ourselves going and headed to Ames for food and a movie. The food didn't set well with Nic so we skipped the movie and just ran the necessary errands. Returns to Target and some wish list making by the boys. A run through the ATM and Hobby Lobby then necessities at Sam's like cheap gas and chocolate milk. We also treated ourselves to a movie at Target since we didn't see one in the theater. Ratatouille was only $14, cheaper than seeing it in the theater and so we splurged.

Well, movie night is over and I am tired yet again. I think I will go read some of the new Creating Keepsakes Magazine I got in the mail today and hit the hay.

Night night.

YAWN!

I think I have made up for the lost sleep of this morning. Andy and I were up at 4:30 and on the road by 5:00 headed to Ames. We joined a fun crown in line at Staples and with our strategy mapped out, were able to get everything we needed. Andy made out so well on rebates that he nearly got paid to go to Staples today! After Staples we headed to Target but I kinda bombed there. I got about 1/2 of the items on my list. Better than nothing I guess.

We came home and got right to work on all of our Staples Easy Rebates. and chilled. I did a little more shopping on-line (things I did not find today and was worried I would not find in central Iowa) and then I crashed. I headed to my room a little after 2 and planned to lay down for 30 minutes. 90 minutes later I woke up and decided it was time to shower. Thank goodness I thought ahead and put BBQ pork in the crock pot this morning. Dinner practically made itself! We enjoyed left over sides from last night and pork sandwiches. Yeah me!

We are now enjoying the pop up version of HS Musical on Disney. Please note there is no one in the room under 30. It is the Grease for the 21 century. Time to join in the finale line dance. JUST KIDDING!

So much to talk about today!

First, YEAH Cowboys and almost Yeah COLTS! Can you believe that I even know who is playing, let alone who is winning? This may be the first and last post to share sports news of any kind. Enough about that!

Andy and Sara got here in good time and we enjoyed a very tasty meal together. Sara brought yumsy corn and beans and I made the turkey, rolls, yams and mashed potatoes. I just remembered that I did not make the stuffing. Too late now to worry about it. We ate as soon as we could and then got straight to the main event, BABY SHOWER! I must say that our family rocks, this includes Kriders and Traubs and beyond. Andy and Sara were showered with love and Sara so sincerely needed to know who everyone was. She would not open a gift or look at a gift card until she could place each person who sent something. I made her and Fred and Andy play a couple of games and they did pretty well all things considered. I kept time to keep things fair. It was fun!

We have spent the evening scouring the ads to see where the deals are. Andy and I are going to head to Ames in the morning. There a just a couple of things that look good enough to get me out of bed at 5:30. I hope it is all worth the trouble.

Thanks again to all who participated in the shower. They were really surprised and pleased and feel quite blessed. I do too!

Where did I go?

Well this is a picture of why I didn't write on Monday night. I came home with a migraine from work but needed to make banana bread for a lady at work and dinner for my family. I also needed to fold laundry and do some other stuff. Well, Fred worked late and once he got home I asked him if he had any idea why the water dispenser in the fridge door might not be working. Well, it was not an easy fix, note the refrigerator sitting in the middle of my kitchen. We had to examine three separate sections of hose and of course the plug was in the final section that runs from under the fridge, through the door, to the spout. No easy way to get to that so we used the air compressor and hoped for the best. Well, the good news, we got the plug unplugged but I got a little soaked in the process. Live and learn I guess.

Tuesday evening did not quite go as planned either. Andrea, the teacher I work with, had to take her son to the Dr. yesterday and he ended up needing surgery last evening. I felt just awful for the poor guy, a pal to both Nic and Will, so I ran one of our extra Game Boy Electronic games over to the hospital for him. I also took the opportunity to do a little more Christmas shopping at Target. No migraine tonight made that all possible.

Today we bummed a bit this morning then got busy with decorating the tree, making pie, doing laundry and stuff. There is always stuff to do. Fred fixed the toaster over from school that some hoodlum broke. The boys went out to play in the snow and I took that opportunity to hide some of the Christmas gifts I bought last night. Below is a picture of the snow that we got today that was not supposed to get this far north and was not supposed to stick. HA HA weatherman, really funny!

We are all ready to take an afternoon nap. well I am at least. I may watch the Dancing with the Stars episode I missed last night. Can't wait for the fun that tomorrow will bring. I need to get online to find some games to play with our special guests. Check back tomorrow for lots of fun pics and yummy food, (I HOPE!)

Yep. it's time!

I thought we would take advantage of a mellow Sunday to get the tree started. I placed a few other holiday items as well but am not quite ready to take the fall leaves off the mantle. I am hoping that the boys and I can get the tree dressed on Wednesday before the company comes on Thursday for the FEAST! Andy and Sara, and I am guessing a dog or two, are headed our way for food and fun. Yipee!

Good news of today includes the fact that my Mom and Dad are on their ship. They called me from their cabin while they were still in port. I could tell my mom was excited and my dad was taking a well deserved nap. I hope they have an awesome time. I can not wait to hear about the adventure. The cool thing is that they are with 4 other relatives so we should get lots of perspectives and hopefully photos as well.

Off to watch my mommy shows once I get the boys tucked in. I am looking forward to the short week of school, just two days, and then a nice 5 day weekend! I am hoping to bake my first holiday cookies to share with Andy and Sara. We'll see how that works out.

Christmas is coming

the goose is getting fat, Please to put a penny in the old man's hat!

I did some Christmas shopping today and I saw my first bell ringer. Nic was with me at Hobby Lobby and he noted what hard work it must be ringing that bell non-stop. I agreed and he asked how I knew it was hard work. I told him that I did not know first hand, I have never rung the bell, but I know that Grandpa has done it for many years and it is hard work. To reward this man with the red kettle for doing his part we did our part. Our first dollar of the season into the red pot!

We had a good day of progress on the Alamo project. The salt dough worked well and we will hopefully assemble to mission tomorrow. Nic needs to work a bit more on the background but we made good progress. After our work on the diorama we headed to Ames to take care of some stuff. We bought the needed light bulb, the boys all got haircuts, we had dinner and I bought some supplies for the Christmas cards. I started the assembly line tonight and I am pretty pleased with the progress.

Well, it is getting pretty late and the boys are still awake so I need to shuffle them off to bed. Will asked to stay up all night tonight but I just don't think tonight is the night. Sleep tight!

What is that sound?

It is the sound of quiet! The boys went over to a friend's house after school and I got to come home to a VERY quiet house. I putzed on the computer for a few and then went down to my scrap room and created a bit. I am trying to come up with a design for the family Christmas card this year. I have not yet come up with something that I love and is worthy of all the eyes to see but I have a few components that I am excited about. Stay tuned.

Friday is almost over and it was a mostly good day. S did a new job at the workshop and did pretty well at the task. K on the other hand did not fare so well at work and only lasted 15 minutes before I had to send her home. The good news is that the place that K works does not depend on her and she is not getting paid so I do not feel so bad letting her go. She had a really long week with some real roller coaster emotions. I think that by this afternoon she was just spent. Me too.

I am supposed to go scrapping tonight but I don't think I will. I have placed my monthly order and sent my check so I think that it is OK if I miss this one. Fred has a bunch on his plate right now and I need to let him accomplish some stuff at work when he can. Tonight he can. Since I had my creative time this afternoon I should make it through tonight without too much trouble. The boys are doing a great job of entertaining themselves so if I hurry downstairs I can probably work a bit longer on the Christmas card.

Happy Friday!

Tired

Too tired, must sleep. Staff meeting in the morning will come before I know it. Goodnight!

Brrr...

I think Old Man Winter is trying to move in a little early this year. I heard multiple people mention the "s" word today and it just made me shiver. The real reason it is so frigid out is that it is SOOOO windy out here on the plains. Blustery is not enough of a windy word for what we experience. I'll try to find the word to describe it.

Today at school was drama filled. The students I work with S & K are soul mates. They claim to be dating yet have never been on a "date." It is endearing and painful to watch all at the same time. Well today they had a bit of a falling out. S has a thing for blonds and I think some mean girls blonds pay attention to S just to get K riled. Well, S has a picture of himself surrounded by these blonds and he happened to show it to K this morning. That was the straw that broke the camel's back. It was over! I of course knew that they would be back together by lunch. Well, I was off my about 10 minutes. They got back together during 5B and we eat 5A. Good thing I didn't have money on that detail. I was probably the closest without going over. (Gotta love Bob Barker.)

Well that ended my school day on a good note. But... when I went to get the boys that was a different story. Nic had a bunch of homework last night but had apparently forgotten to do the back side of a worksheet. UGH! We got it all done tonight though. But alas it may be for naught. Nic has diarrhea again tonight and is complaining of stomach pain and a head ache. Double UGH!

Let's talk about Will for a minute to get my mind off the fact that I am probably staying home again tomorrow. Will received two second place ribbons at school today. He was the second most improved student in his class in addition and subtraction. Last month he got two first place ribbons. I don't care what color the ribbons are, I am thrilled that he continues to improve so rapidly. He is quite the sponge this year. Yeah Will!

Well I need to go research salt dough recipes. Nic has to do a diorama of the Alamo by Monday. Good thing we bought some new shoes last week. Never know when you need a shoe box. Stay tuned!

101 and counting

Well this is my one hundred and first post. Hard to believe anyone is still checking in. Well, maybe no one is?! I hope I am wrong about that.

We had a hectic day but that is just fine. School was busy for me, still getting used to the full day after the long weekend home with Nic. The good news is that Nic is still doing great and we had a well-child check today. New doc, I fired that nasty pediatrician from the August post. We have moved on and I am pleased. Nic received a clean bill of health and even after all of the tears we all walked away with sore spots from our annual flu shots. Will cried so much that we had to call in reinforcements and that made me cry. Not bawl like him but tears all the same.

After the doctor we headed to K-mart to buy a light bulb and the Pokemon cards I had promised. Well, they did not have the right light bulb but we did find the cards we desired and some cute fall kitchen towels for 50% off. I gave up on the light bulb, what's another week in the dark? We headed to Pizza Ranch for caffeine and food. I had a killer migraine at this point and just needed to sit, eat and enjoy. Well we did just that then headed home to finish homework and see who survived the Dancing With the Stars elimination.

The headache is gone, the boys are in bed, homework and spelling drills are complete, and I am about ready to curl up in my lonely bed and go to sleep. Fred will be home tomorrow and all is right in my world. Oh yeah, I still need a Thanksgiving dinner plan, maybe not everything is right, but it might be by tomorrow.

The perfect fall snack.

Well we made it back to school today and I came home exhausted! The day was full of smiles and challenges as usual. Nic came home a bit crabby but I expected as much. I made the muffins and brownies for my coworkers and one had the nerve not to be there. Something about an ear infection... Pish Posh. Just kidding. As a frequent sufferer of ear infections I get it!

The above pictures shows you my after school snack from today. A pumpkin muffin and a mug of apple juice with Aspen Mulling Spices. It was heaven! I love mulling spices in my apple juice and was down to about 1 Tablespoon after rationing them pretty strongly last winter. I had hoped to pick some up at the Cracker Barrel brunch event a few weeks ago but they did not have their supply yet. Thankfully my BFF knows where to get the goods (Lilly Orchard in Indy) and brought me two cartons. Yipee! and Thanks!

Well I am off to help Nic get showered and get my padanams (pajamas said by Katie Rosensteele) on before Dancing with the Stars. Tomorrow will be on its way before I know it. Fred is conveniently in TX again on trash day... he is so sly. Actually they are trying to wrap up some business before next week so he might get a couple of days off. Building a new plant in Mexico is hard work.

Brownies make everything better!

I think that Nic is going to be well enough for school tomorrow. The final decision will be made in the morning but I am optimistic. So optimistic that I am baking brownies and pumpkin muffins for the girls at work. The boys are clean, the clothes will be selected for tomorrow. Fred is packed. Ironing is done. Tomorrow will come and I will be ready, NO MATTER WHAT! If i get to go to work I am taking the brownies. If I have to stay home with Nic I am eating the brownies. Like I said, no matter what.

Today was a good one. We had a fun morning with Denise and Tyler. The boys got outside for awhile, it was a balmy 65 degrees, and we had a tasty lunch of grilled cheese and potato soup. A few more minutes of play and they were off. Hopefully they'll come back in the spring or summer or sometime.

After the company left to head back to IN I headed to Ankney to make some returns to Kohl's and I of course stopped at the local scrapbook store, Michael's and then headed to Des Moines. There I paid off the television with my final payment to Sears and picked up some Christmas gifts at Target. It was a very successful trip.

I must share the news of my exciting addition to my scrap room. My BFF brought my birthday present, no we don't stand on ceremony or by calender around here. (I just presented her gift to her last month and her birthday is in July.) Anywho, what she gave me is a Sizzix Sidekick! This handy little tool used small dies to easily create alphabets and shapes to be used on my pages and cards. Denise thought that the tool she bought came with a die to play with but it did not. While in Ames yesterday she bought me a set of 4 dies to play with. It is a little addicting. In a good way of course! Thanks Denise. I really do love it! I even bought a sizzlet die at Michael's today. They had alphas on sale but I couldn't quite bring myself to spend the $80. Maybe next month Santa will bring me one.

Almost...

almost missed my post today. Denise and Tyler got in at a surprisingly reasonable time last night but that led us to stay up a little too late. This morning came pretty early and today was chilled but busy.

We started our day out wonderfully with biscuits and gravy for breakfast. We all got ready, well, 2/3rds of us, got ready. Nic is still a bit runny so he and Fred stayed behind. We went to Ames to exchange Will's defective coat to Target and it went very smoothly. We have a fresh start once again. We also ran a couple more errands including a drop at the Salvation Army Store and lunch at Hickory Park. I think D and T were duly impressed and very full.

We brought some food home for Nic and spent a little time playing with my b-day present from Denise. She bought me a Sizzix Side Kick die cut machine. She thought the machine came with a die but it did not so we ran to Hobby Lobby and picked up a set to play with. I picked out a VERY cute winter set that you may see in a Christmas Card. Still thinking about that.

The same party went to church tonight and arrived home 75 minutes later with Bailey's pizza for dinner. Once again I think D & T enjoyed the local delicacy. There was lots of electronic gaming today but I think the boys had fun. We did play a game of Sequence and Fred and all the boys broke in his B-day present. I bought him a PSP. It was just what he wanted. I know because he told me. Love that guy!

Pay Day!

I love it when it is pay day and I don't have to be at work to get the money! Nic was home for day three of this virus. His spirits and energy are high but so are the frequency of his trips to the bathroom. It hasn't been quiet as bad today. Hopefully he is close to being over this.

In just a few hours we are expecting Denise and Tyler. I need to Lysol the bathrooms before they arrive but other than that I think we are ready. Fred got home in time for dinner and a nap. I made the dinner right after I took a nap.

I did a bit of housework today including washing sheets and changing the boys bed with their cozy flannel sheets. I also ran to Wal-Mart to get Nic some yogurt and more Gatorade. We should have worked on birthday thank you notes but I haven't made them yet so there's the challenge. Maybe I'll get to that on Sunday after the guests leave.

Well, I should use the time I have to get started on all the laundry that Fred brought home. Never a dull moment around here!

Another day, no school.

Nic seemed to be on the mend last night but the poops returned today. He feels so well otherwise, it is hard to keep him home. I did take Will to school this AM and turned in his work from yesterday and picked up all the work from today. I walked out of school wishing I had a strong backpack. He had a little of this and little of that but all the assignments required the accompanying text book. I am glad I got this all this morning. He has taken care of a few of the items already.

I am almost done with all the laundry minus what Fred brings home tomorrow and dumps into the otherwise empty basket. It just never stops does it? Well, job security for the laundry soap people and ME!

Today is my friend/mentor Jan's birthday. She really was not looking forward to this event so we played it down a bit at work. Jan is AMAZING and I have learned so much from her. She is a committed aide who just gives and gives and gives. She used to work in a school just for kids with disabilities. I work with some of her students at the workshop with S and they all remember her fondly. They love her still, after all those years. To celebrate her un-birthday I made pie instead of cake. There were no candles, just whipped cream. After I dropped off Will I ran all of my goodies to the high school. I bought her very practical gifts, Kleenex, playing cards, red pens and Crystal Light Singles. All things that she likes and needs. I hope that all the ladies at work enjoyed the yummy treats. I made some cinnamon muffins too. Since I was at home yesterday I thought I'd be productive.

Speaking of which, the laundry will not put itself away. Guess I can't ignore the obvious too long.

We make plans and God laughs!

So went my day. It was supposed to be "normal." Work at 9 today, laundry, homework, taking the kids to my pal Andrea's house tonight so I could go to bus class, they were going to get picked up by my other pal Sara and be in bed when I got home. Well, Nic woke up uncomfortable and ended up home today with the poops. I did take care of some laundry and baked a pie for my friend Jan's UnBirthday party tomorrow. I also vacuumed the whole upstairs and cleaned a couple of toilets and sinks. I still need to do the bathroom mirrors and I got a toy in the mail today that I want to play with. Once I do I'll show you what it is...

Here is a shot from the science fair last night. The people that took time to look at our exhibit thought it was REALLY cool. We also have some ideas about how to possibly expand the project next year. It is cool how science just makes people ask more questions that need answers.

Well, I am off to do more laundry and work on dinner. Not sure what everyone will be up for eating. The plans for tonight have changed but Sara is still in to help me out. I am thrilled becasue I REALLY want to get this final bus class over with for the year. 3 hours tonight and I am good to go! Not that I haven't been going already.

Happy Wednedsay! Only two more sleeps till company comes!

keeping up appearances

I have a little goal set with myself to blog every day this month. I am not really in the mood and I want to share pics from the science fair but I am toooooo tired. Well, I can say I posted today, just not too meaningful right?

Good Night, Sleep Tight and Pleasant Dreams to YOU!

Huh?

So the boys and I got out of school early today. We headed to Ames once the homework was mostly done, to get some errands taken care of. One stop was at Sam's Club and what do you think we saw in the parking lot? THIS CRAZY TOPSY TURVEY Bus! Now, as an almost official bus driver, it FREAKED me out! But once I got a better look it made total political sense! Not sure who brought this topsy turveiness to my attention but it was eye catching.

We got all the errands run and have made great strides on the science fair board. We need to take data in the morning and after school and we will be set to input that data and print. Nic is pleased with the board. I think it needs something more than words but I'm not sure what. Oh well, it is what it is tonight. I am off to bed, it is chilly in my house. I think I didn't reset the clock on the thermostat. Guess I should do that before I hit the hay.

Night!

Happy Birthday Nic!

Today was the BIG day. It was little anticlimactic after the Nerf war last night but I tried to make it memorable. The highlight of the day, once Nic finished all of his weekend homework, was a small party at Chuck E Cheese (CEC). We took three other boys and Nic and Will, it was one too many in my book but it worked out OK. We had pizza left over and everyone ate their fill. Fred had to leave for Mexico about and hour before the party and Nic was a bit bummed when we got home tonight and he wasn't here to share the stories with but he will survive.

I was a bit of a lousy mom and forgot to buy a cake when we got to CEC. They have these small 9X9 inch ones frozen that you can buy and I forgot about it until after dinner, then chose to not serve frozen cake. Instead I bought each kid an ice cream novelty of their choice.




The Montley Crew being just a tad silly.


The unconventional present opening in the back of the car. I forgot to bring the gifts inside so we just took care of this little detail once we were getting ready to head home. We went to the closest CEC which is almost an hour away. I kept the boys entertained with the Karate Kid movie on the in-car DVD player. That is a great movie still today.





Nic used his tickets to get me this rock! It was a little funny but all the boys got rings! The three fourth graders got basketball bracelets too. Go figure.

As I sat next to Nic tonight I thought about his joyful entrance into this world. We were in Knoxville at the time and were really thrilled that I didn't go into labor during a home football weekend. The hospital where he was delivered was pretty close to campus and the whole town turned orange on any Saturday in the fall. We had not been in Knoxville long and had a bit of trouble setting up dog sitters so we headed to the hospital and prayed that we wouldn't have to call the apartment manager to let Pete out. We were optimistic that having this kid would not take more than 12 hours. Well we were right and soon after Nic showed up Fred left to go let the dog out. While he was home he spent hours! trying to upload images from our newly purchased camcorder that took digital stills. We had only bought the thing a few days before Nic was born and e-mail was all dial up and VERY slow. I kept calling him to see when he was coming back and the phone just rang and rang. It was all worth it when my parents and his parents were able to see photos so soon after Nic was born. It seems like light years ago compared to cameras on cell phones that make events like this so instant.










Enough of the babble, I am off to check on my boys and watch my mommy shows. The house is quiet and someone has to let the dog out, just like 9 years ago.

Another good day...

I type that as if I wasn't expecting a good day. Well I wasn't sure what to expect, but it has been good. I got to sleep in a bit, had to get up around 7 to let the dog out, but was able to return to snuggle with my honey. The boys got up a little later and kept themselves occupied without assistance till almost 9. Love it!





Finally we started our day with cinnamon rolls, hot showers and shopping lists. Fred and Nic headed out to buy science fair supplies and got home in time to bring McDonald's for Will for lunch. A couple of hours on science fair stuff and we left the house around 5 to get a family meal in at Applebee's. Nic's choice. While in town we ran back to Radio Shack for one more thing and to the bank. I need cash for the trip to CEC tomorrow! We also went to Wal-mart for just a few things.





Once we got home I threw some brownies in the oven and Nic opened his present. Fred bought him an arsenal of Nerf Guns and I am currently sitting right on the fringes of an all our war! Pete is going crazy and the Nerf bullets are flying. I heard some rule about no head shots but we'll see.


Can you make out my son hiding behind my nice new stools? Like I said, it is a war. I think I may go down to my scrap room and hide with the dog! More birthday fun tomorrow!

TGIF

Today was pretty good overall. I say that despite the fact that my dinner plans were ruined by the slip of my hand. I had made a couple of meat loafs yesterday with the intention of having one tonight and freezing one to have in a week or two. Well, I went to the fridge to pull out the loaf pan and it slipped right out of my hand and crashed to the floor. If I had used a metal pan I am sure we would have enjoyed meatloaf for dinner. Instead, I had used a glass Pyrex loaf pan and it broke into a million pieces all around my meatloaf, thereby making it inedible. UGH!

Well, we settled on homemade waffles and sausage links for dinner and moved on with our lives.

Nic and Fred are busy working on the science fair project that is due on Tuesday. We put this off a bit too long but I am sure we will pull something off. This is not a judged or even graded event so I am less than worried. I do need to buy a science fair board and remember what information needs to be included. I am sure I can find some stuff on-line about that. Nic is going to do his part and I'll just offer guidance while daddy offers tech support. We all have a little to give.

This weekend we will also be celebrating Nic's b-day with a few friends at Chuck E Cheese on Sunday. Fred is off to Mexico mid-day Sunday so I have asked one of the kid's mom to join me. At least I will have someone to talk to .

Off to work on some laundry and prep for the weekend. I think I have some presents to wrap. Fred was in charge of shopping, I take care of wrapping. Good deal.

Happy Friday!

Welcome to November

I really enjoy November. It starts with the celebration of Nic's birth and ends with the celebration of Fred's birth. Both great gifts from God! Squeezed into the month is my mother-in-laws birthday, THANKSGIVING, (my most favorite holiday! Lots of tasty food and no presents to buy!) and fall at its peak as well as a little break from school. YEAH!

We had a successful night of trick or treating. My pal Vicki and her daughter Megan joined us. She made an awesome Hermione Granger with the assistance of our wand and cape from a Halloween past. She had great hair! Did I get a picture... um no. Sorry. I never was one to do Halloween layouts in my scrapbooks. Guess there won't be one this year either.

Well, I have updated my blog with appropriate fall coloring and have paid bills for this month. Now I am off to make soup and sandwiches for supper. Yes! Welcome November, come on in and sit for a spell.

Hey, check out the lovely b-day present I got from my aunt. The pretty vase is a tint of purple (one of my favorite colors that I can not seems to infuse into my life as much lately. It's been tough since I got rid of my purple plastic clogs!) and the potpourri is Lavender and it is really strong. My house smelled really good when we got home from school today. Thanks!

OMG

I have a little hidden obsession with the reality show Dancing with the Stars. I do not rearrange my schedule to watch but if I am not available I do record it on my DVR and watch as soon as I can. Well tonight, I along with many others across the nation, were shocked at the results. It seems that little miss Cheetah Girl, Sabrina Bryant, was eliminated. She looked so scared as they started announcing who was safe and who was in the bottom two. You could practically see her shaking. She was a contender from day one and last night was her last dance. It was likely her worst dance, not a good way to end it. I feel sorry for her but was impressed with her professionalism and her ability to hold it together with grace. The boys will be mad, we had voted for her a couple of weeks but not last night. Was it our fault? I won't blame myself but I do feel for her. Hopefully this exposure will help her continue to climb the ladder of success.

Oh yeah, and the boys went trick or treating tonight and we had company. My pal Vicki and he daughter Megan joined us. We had a fun time and have plenty of candy for the time being. We were out longer than I had planned but not by much. The weather was quite bearable and the company was good. The boys have Halloween Parties at school tomorrow. They'll come home plenty wired I'm sure. Gotta love a cupcake high!

The way it all went down

OK, so here is my trip report backwards. I uploaded these photos and could not get them to go the other direction. We headed to IN on Friday around lunch. I drove with a migraine until I had to pull over and take a 30 minute nap, then we got into IL to drive through rain all the way across the state. No one coordinated potty breaks very well and since it was raining the wet dog smell was tough to avoid in the enclosed car. The good news... We Made It!

Friday we visited for just a few minutes with mom and dad then crashed. Saturday I ran a couple of errands, the boys went to sell raffle tickets with my dad and my wonderful mom gave my dog a haircut! Around lunch Joan, Mike, Natalie and Landry came over to hang and eat tasty grilled cheese. We hung out, I got another birthday present! and tried to keep the princess entertained. All of the sudden it was time to go to the main event, Tyler's Eagle Ceremony. The camp was super busy but we found a place to park and headed in. The ceremony was really nice, we saw lots of people we hadn't seen in a long time and we had Papa John's Pizza for dinner. I was a happy camper for sure!

After Tyler's event the boys ran around for a bit then we parted ways. We got lost going to my sister's but made it in time to hang out a bit before getting down to business. This was not strictly a social event. We had 1000 envelopes to stuff. Well, we got 995 done before we ran short on one item. Close enough in my book! We then headed back to mom and dad's to crash. The boys of course weren't too tired but I managed to send them to bed around 10 Iowa time.

Morning came way too soon. We were up and the boys spent some time playing with the puppies while I got ready for my day and loaded the car. We headed out a little before 10 to meet up with the in-laws for breakfast at Cracker Barrel. After a too quick meal we headed west, destination HOME.

The drive was pretty uneventful. We made three stops at McDonald's, don't ask, and did a little better with bathroom breaks. We drove about 500 miles in 7 hours and 45 minutes. The breaks were short and the roads were dry. This was a good trip.




This was the view I had waited for all day! Heading west through Iowa I got to enjoy the sunset and my music as the boys munched on McDonald's "one more time" and one last time this weekend.






This wonderful lady set my kids up for Halloween. Candy, coins and Spiderman folders! She always has treats for us. This time we got cereal and Mac N Cheese. I love it when she does my grocery shopping. I men that with complete sincerity.







We met the Culp, party of three, at Cracker Barrel for breakfast before heading back to IA. While we were waiting to be seated Mary received a VERY exciting phone call. It seems that little miss Megan had won a story writing contest sponsored by the Logansport Pharos Tribune! Her mom was practically glowing with pride! Other BIG Culp news is Matt's move to the day shift at SIA. I don't think it is called that anymore, but you get the idea. He has worked second shift forever. This will be a big adjustment for everyone in the house. Good luck guys! PS Mary, I am seriously interested in getting that CVS song. If you ever get the chance to download it for your phone system send it my way. PPS, Matt, Denise is taking care of my Aspen Mulling Spices. She is headed this way in less than two weeks and knows exactly where to get them. Let's just pray they carry them this year!












Will's favorite part of the trip was seeing Tango's puppies! They have cute "dance" related names like: Salsa, Samba, Twister (the twist), Big and Little Bertha and ???. All VERY sweet even when they pee in your lap, right Will?








A definite bonus to going to Indy was seeing this cutie! My first nephew Landry.

The reason for our trip stands above, the handsome blond in uniform. Congrats on your accomplishment Tyler and kudos to mom Denise too! Love you both. The boys really enjoyed spending time with Tyler after the ceremony. They ran around like hooligans at Camp Belzer and have the dirty clothes to prove it. They are pretty pumped that our friends will be heading west to IA in less than two weeks to see us. It will be a short visit but I am quite certain that we will pack it with FUN!