I never put up the hummingbird feeder. In fact, I never refilled any of the feeders. I think I didn't want to get their hopes up only to disappoint them when I leave. (Good excuse, no?) I think it's cool that the wrens nested in our garage twice this year. I think there were three babies this time. They left the nest last Thursday, and on Friday there was still one left in the garage. It looked like Momma wren was still coming in and feeding the bird, but the baby couldn't figure its way out. I figured I would let them work it out on their own, but when the baby still hadn't left the garage on Saturday I finally opened the back door a crack. It didn't take long before the baby was outside. I heard the birds chirping around the yard for the rest of the weekend, but I haven't seen them since. I have seen a Rufous-Sided Towhee hopping around the back yard a few times. I think the coloring on those birds is quite striking, so I have been excited to see it so often. It's been a few years. [Apparently the bird formerly known as the rufous-sided towhee is now the Eastern Towhee. Thank you, Wikipedia.]
I am looking forward to seeing my family soon. As always I panicked before purchasing the plane ticket. It is so expensive to travel. Even though I knew that there was no way around it--it was going to cost what it was going to cost--I wished that you were here that night to encourage me to go ahead and press "Purchase Ticket." It was after 10:00pm and there was no one that I could call to calm me. Even if you were home you would probably have been asleep; I would have woken you up to ask you if I should go ahead and purchase the tickets; and you would have been a little annoyed with me. I always freak out with big expenses. But, I really feel like it is worth the expense to spend this time with my family, to meet my brother's bride and see him get married, and to see you as well.
I started going through the book about New England that I picked up from the used book store. As I looked through it, I decided that I am going to encourage my boys to do a little extra study to go along with our excursions. I started compiling a reading list for them including some books by local authors as well as the history behind some of the places we will be visiting. I plan on doing this for both Utah and New England. Todd's teacher just told him today that she expects her students to read 33 hours over the summer. That averages to about 3 hours a week. We are hoping that he has the same teacher for next year, and I would love for him to be able to report back that he continued to read. I also think it will be good for Ryan to have a reading goal this summer.
I have big plans to keep Todd busy learning this summer. I think I already told you that his teacher wants to work with him via e-mail and online to get ahead on the fourth grade math and hopefully finish the book this summer. And I would like to pick up where we left off on some piano lessons. Lofty goals we have.
I am looking forward to having a girls night out (just dinner at this point) with Jen, Donna, and Anne, for my birthday Friday night. I drove by Coach-N-Four earlier this month. It made me miss you and the birthday dinner you might have treated me to. Actually, I really enjoyed my birthday dinner at the Boathouse last year. That was a lovely evening.
I love that I have been able to talk and hang out with Jen more. I really enjoy having her live close. Jen took me and the boys out for a Mother's Day (Eve) movie. ["Chimpanzee" was a great choice for our diverse group--young, oldish, male, female.] It meant so much to hear Jen tell me that I was one of her favorite mothers. It literally brought tears to my ears to feel her sincerity when she said that.(Especially after a tough week when I felt like my new neighbors maybe didn't respect my parenting much. What do they know, anyway?)
I feel like my brain has been a little fried lately. I have not done nearly as well keeping up with my updates as I would like. But I think about you all the time. I get excited to share your story with people who ask about you. I really am so proud of you and what you are accomplishing. Sometimes I probably gush too much, but I can't help it. You are very cool, and I have enjoyed following you on this adventure.
Showing posts with label neighbors. Show all posts
Showing posts with label neighbors. Show all posts
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
For Brett From Home (4/17/12)
I think Ryan has been having a hard time with our busy schedule this spring. He was complaining about an upset tummy on Sunday night and again on Monday morning. The boy said he felt too sick to go to school. I knew that I could push him to go to school, but I just had a feeling that he should stay home. I reminded him that staying home from school meant make-up work, no after-school play time with friends, no baseball that evening, and a nap. He happily agreed to the conditions. His mood improved significantly when the time for catching the bus had come and gone. But I didn't hear a word of complaint that afternoon on the friends issue. He also made an attempt to rest in the afternoon, but I was the only one who caught a few z's. In the end, I still don't regret letting Ryan have his mental health day. I am happy that he has an easy baseball schedule this week. No game or practice until Friday. Oma took Todd to baseball this afternoon, so Ryan has the rest of the afternoon to be a little boy, now that he has finished his math homework. I think he needed this break.
Todd, on the other hand, is doing just fine. In fact, with this week being FCAT testing you might think that Todd would be a little more stressed. Not at all. He is the one reminding me about eating a good breakfast. He suggested making "real" oatmeal for breakfast this morning, complete with raisins. How could I refuse him? Rather than being stressed this morning, he was excited about the prospect of getting Nerds as a snack at school after the test.
I had errands to run yesterday, so Ryan got to tag along with me. Ryan had one request: we had to get a birthday present for Copper. Per his request I took him to Walgreen's, where we found a glow-in-the-dark frisbee ring. I thought it was a perfect idea. Ryan let the ring soak up some rays and tested it in the bathroom. It really glowed. That night we tried it out and almost lost it. The ring had lost is glow and we couldn't see it in the bushes where Ryan had thrown had landed it. Still, it was a very sweet thought. Ryan also gave Copper a belated birthday treat yesterday. He let Copper lick his empty yogurt container. That sweet boy loves his Copper.
I also bought a special treat for Ryan at the grocery store: Silk, vanilla-flavored almond milk. Ryan has been begging me to buy it ever since he tried it at a friend's house. He loves it. I think he drank three cups of it yesterday. I like it okay, but just in small quantities. I might like it more as I get used to it. It did taste good with my bananas and oatmeal this morning.
Ryan and I also stopped at the vet yesterday and picked up some flea medicine for Copper. I gave it to him last night, and I didn't see any fleas on him when I checked him today. (Yeah!) I bought some special soothing shampoo to use on him, hopefully tomorrow. I also noticed that he seemed to have a little limp again today. I checked his paws thoroughly (he hated every minute of it), but I didn't see anything suspicious. I'll keep an eye on him.
This afternoon, instead of offering his yogurt container to Copper, Ryan mutilated his yogurt cup. He was using his spoon to bend out the bottom of the container. He reminded me so much of you, testing the properties of the plastic--pushing, scraping, poking, exploring, thinking. He also completely took apart (and put back together) the mechanical pencil he was using for his homework today, at times writing with it half-assembled. I restrained myself from telling him to just let the pencil be. I know it is good for him to put his curiosity to work. It amazes me to see his brain work sometimes. A little Brett.
I wonder how soon we will be able to employ Ryan's assistance in honey-do projects. I haven't heard the details yet, but I think your dad heard big bad news about the lawn mower. I may ask Deede about having Alex help out with the lawn. The corner cabinet in the kitchen could also use an oiling, when you get a chance. It is quite squeaky.
I have been working quite a bit on the blogs (a total of three) that I am keeping up for you. I have spent a lot of time setting them up and rearranging some things. My goal is that if I do it right now, then the photos, updates, and journal entries will all be organized at the end of the trip so we can do something special with it. I think we should do just that--something special. I think it is important to have your experience documented for your posterity.
I am typing now to the sound of seven boys playing nicely in the backyards (on the playset in Tammy's yard at the moment). Music to my ears. I feel very lucky to have great neighbors and friends so close for the boys to play with.
I met up with some church friends at Top This, the new frozen yogurt store that moved into the old Coastal Lumber building (Is that the name of the store that was across from the high school? I can't believe I've already forgotten.). While I was there I ran into (UPS driver) Carlos. He had heard (maybe from Donna?) that you were hiking the A.T. He said that he hiked the Georgia section. He started out with the intention of hiking to Blood Mountain and just kept going until he reached the Georgia/North Carolina border. It sounds like has the attitude of "never-again!". You'll have to ask him about it when you get back.
I had another aviary surprise today, though with the mild winter I shouldn't be that surprised. I saw our first hummingbird. It was in the front yard and just peeked into the dining room window. Time for me to set up the bird feeder.
I think you will be pleased to know that your mom finally bought herself a new sewing machine. This week she bought a Bernina which she has been wanting for years. Her machine finally stopped working, so she has been using mine. Mine doesn't do any fancy stitches, but it does the straight and zig zag stitches just fine. I think your mom is excited about her machine. I told her that you would have been happy if she bought herself a good machine years ago. She deserves it.
I know it really hasn't been that long since I talked to you, but it kind of feels like it already. I look forward to hearing from you soon, and hope you're doing well.
More from today:
I took Ryan to Chick-Fil-A for dinner tonight. They were doing a school fundraiser tonight, similar to the Hungry Howie's school night. Ryan definitely has a European attitude when it comes to eating his meals. I think he enjoys the socializing more than the eating. When I encouraged him to take a bit for the hundredth time he replied, "I just don't feel like taking a bite." He was content to sit and talk, having my full attention.
When we got home Ryan and I took Copper for a golf course run. We passed the hedge of honeysuckles (correction: jasmine). They smelled so sweet. I thought of you. I also noticed that the two baby long leaf pine trees in the backyard seem to be doing very well.
Tonight before bed Ryan and I finally looked at the booklet about babies, as promised. We saw the goo-blobs, alien-looking babies, white-fuzz-covered babies, legs-up-in-the-face babies (like Ryan, right before he was born), and newborns. I don't remember having a detailed conversation with my mom when I was young about umbilical cords and how my belly button came to be. I'm also pretty sure I didn't ask her whether I pooped or peed in her tummy. Also, "Do you tell if it's a boy or girl by looking at how the baby sucks its thumb?" (Wha?...uh, no...You just look right there.) All things considered, it wasn't nearly as scary as I thought it might be.
Todd, on the other hand, is doing just fine. In fact, with this week being FCAT testing you might think that Todd would be a little more stressed. Not at all. He is the one reminding me about eating a good breakfast. He suggested making "real" oatmeal for breakfast this morning, complete with raisins. How could I refuse him? Rather than being stressed this morning, he was excited about the prospect of getting Nerds as a snack at school after the test.
I had errands to run yesterday, so Ryan got to tag along with me. Ryan had one request: we had to get a birthday present for Copper. Per his request I took him to Walgreen's, where we found a glow-in-the-dark frisbee ring. I thought it was a perfect idea. Ryan let the ring soak up some rays and tested it in the bathroom. It really glowed. That night we tried it out and almost lost it. The ring had lost is glow and we couldn't see it in the bushes where Ryan had thrown had landed it. Still, it was a very sweet thought. Ryan also gave Copper a belated birthday treat yesterday. He let Copper lick his empty yogurt container. That sweet boy loves his Copper.
I also bought a special treat for Ryan at the grocery store: Silk, vanilla-flavored almond milk. Ryan has been begging me to buy it ever since he tried it at a friend's house. He loves it. I think he drank three cups of it yesterday. I like it okay, but just in small quantities. I might like it more as I get used to it. It did taste good with my bananas and oatmeal this morning.
Ryan and I also stopped at the vet yesterday and picked up some flea medicine for Copper. I gave it to him last night, and I didn't see any fleas on him when I checked him today. (Yeah!) I bought some special soothing shampoo to use on him, hopefully tomorrow. I also noticed that he seemed to have a little limp again today. I checked his paws thoroughly (he hated every minute of it), but I didn't see anything suspicious. I'll keep an eye on him.
This afternoon, instead of offering his yogurt container to Copper, Ryan mutilated his yogurt cup. He was using his spoon to bend out the bottom of the container. He reminded me so much of you, testing the properties of the plastic--pushing, scraping, poking, exploring, thinking. He also completely took apart (and put back together) the mechanical pencil he was using for his homework today, at times writing with it half-assembled. I restrained myself from telling him to just let the pencil be. I know it is good for him to put his curiosity to work. It amazes me to see his brain work sometimes. A little Brett.
I wonder how soon we will be able to employ Ryan's assistance in honey-do projects. I haven't heard the details yet, but I think your dad heard big bad news about the lawn mower. I may ask Deede about having Alex help out with the lawn. The corner cabinet in the kitchen could also use an oiling, when you get a chance. It is quite squeaky.
I have been working quite a bit on the blogs (a total of three) that I am keeping up for you. I have spent a lot of time setting them up and rearranging some things. My goal is that if I do it right now, then the photos, updates, and journal entries will all be organized at the end of the trip so we can do something special with it. I think we should do just that--something special. I think it is important to have your experience documented for your posterity.
I am typing now to the sound of seven boys playing nicely in the backyards (on the playset in Tammy's yard at the moment). Music to my ears. I feel very lucky to have great neighbors and friends so close for the boys to play with.
I met up with some church friends at Top This, the new frozen yogurt store that moved into the old Coastal Lumber building (Is that the name of the store that was across from the high school? I can't believe I've already forgotten.). While I was there I ran into (UPS driver) Carlos. He had heard (maybe from Donna?) that you were hiking the A.T. He said that he hiked the Georgia section. He started out with the intention of hiking to Blood Mountain and just kept going until he reached the Georgia/North Carolina border. It sounds like has the attitude of "never-again!". You'll have to ask him about it when you get back.
I had another aviary surprise today, though with the mild winter I shouldn't be that surprised. I saw our first hummingbird. It was in the front yard and just peeked into the dining room window. Time for me to set up the bird feeder.
I think you will be pleased to know that your mom finally bought herself a new sewing machine. This week she bought a Bernina which she has been wanting for years. Her machine finally stopped working, so she has been using mine. Mine doesn't do any fancy stitches, but it does the straight and zig zag stitches just fine. I think your mom is excited about her machine. I told her that you would have been happy if she bought herself a good machine years ago. She deserves it.
I know it really hasn't been that long since I talked to you, but it kind of feels like it already. I look forward to hearing from you soon, and hope you're doing well.
More from today:
I took Ryan to Chick-Fil-A for dinner tonight. They were doing a school fundraiser tonight, similar to the Hungry Howie's school night. Ryan definitely has a European attitude when it comes to eating his meals. I think he enjoys the socializing more than the eating. When I encouraged him to take a bit for the hundredth time he replied, "I just don't feel like taking a bite." He was content to sit and talk, having my full attention.
When we got home Ryan and I took Copper for a golf course run. We passed the hedge of honeysuckles (correction: jasmine). They smelled so sweet. I thought of you. I also noticed that the two baby long leaf pine trees in the backyard seem to be doing very well.
Tonight before bed Ryan and I finally looked at the booklet about babies, as promised. We saw the goo-blobs, alien-looking babies, white-fuzz-covered babies, legs-up-in-the-face babies (like Ryan, right before he was born), and newborns. I don't remember having a detailed conversation with my mom when I was young about umbilical cords and how my belly button came to be. I'm also pretty sure I didn't ask her whether I pooped or peed in her tummy. Also, "Do you tell if it's a boy or girl by looking at how the baby sucks its thumb?" (Wha?...uh, no...You just look right there.) All things considered, it wasn't nearly as scary as I thought it might be.
Thursday, March 29, 2012
For Brett, From Home (3/29/12)
After Copper ran off last night, I made sure that I exercised him this morning. I went roller-blading with neighbor Beth and had a really nice time. I think she would like to make it a weekly date. After piano lessons I threw the frisbee with Copper a few times to let him a run a bit until he got bored. Then, when you mom was bringing Todd home for the night they drove up and down the fairway to give Copper a little more exercise. Only, when your mom got to my house she realized that when she had turned around, he had kept on going. She hadn't realized it at the turn, because it was already dark. I thought we were doing so well today. He never tried to run off all afternoon when the doors were open and piano students were coming in and out. He lay in the back yard or on the front porch and seemed like he was enjoying the day. Apparently I won't be able to let Copper out after dark without careful supervision.
I saw an unfamiliar orange cat on our front porch when I came home from baseball tonight. Later, I went into the garage and thought I smelled cat urine. Coincidence?
No news on the number of wren babies in the nest. I'll keep trying my best to get a peek without bothering them.
The boys were in bed by 8:30pm tonight! And, I think they were totally asleep before 9:00pm. Believe it or not, this is note-worthy. (I may even be able to get myself to bed by 10:30pm.)
I saw an unfamiliar orange cat on our front porch when I came home from baseball tonight. Later, I went into the garage and thought I smelled cat urine. Coincidence?
No news on the number of wren babies in the nest. I'll keep trying my best to get a peek without bothering them.
The boys were in bed by 8:30pm tonight! And, I think they were totally asleep before 9:00pm. Believe it or not, this is note-worthy. (I may even be able to get myself to bed by 10:30pm.)
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
For Brett, From Home (3/28/12)
I had such a wonderful time with you and the family this Spring Break. It was such a nice vacation. So nice to relax again, to have no real schedule, to take it easy with the people I love. I felt refreshed on Monday and had a good day. But now it's Wednesday, and I already feel like I need another vacation. It's 8:52pm and the boys are still awake. No wonder I stay up each night until almost midnight. My evening Mommy Time can't get started until 10pm, by the time I get the house chores done!
I have been seeing Daddy Wren make more appearances lately. On my first day back I thought I saw a wren feeding the babies. Then I realized it was Dad bringing Mom a bug snack. In fact, I just witnessed Daddy Wren catch a moth that was resting on the back sliding glass door and give it a good shake-down before flying off with it. I'm sorry you're not here to witness it. I hope the wrens come back next year for you.
Our new neighbors moved in today. The moving truck was unloading when I got home from school today. I saw the mom for half a minute when I went to greet the boys off the boys. We waved and I was going to go over and say hello with the boys, but she was gone by the time we dropped their backpacks in the house. I had planned on making an apple pie this week, since it sounded good on vacation. I think I will make an extra and bring it over to the new neighbors and officially meet them.
I am thinking about talking to Tammy about my reading with Logan. I just can't keep up with it when we have a baseball game or practice the same day. That happened both Monday and Wednesday this week. It's just one more thing that eats up my time in the afternoon with the boys.
I started a 30-day challenge at the beginning of March. It was a photo-a-day challenge, with an assigned topic for each day. I liked that the topics were varied and gave little glimpses into my life.
It lasted 7 days....
I still want to finish the photo challenge, but I think I will have to start fresh in April. Going out of town twice in March messed it up.
I haven't gotten back in the groove with Copper's exercise yet and I paid for it tonight. I had to drive to school Tuesday (story time) and Wednesday (library) this week. And I elected to drive the boys on Monday since we all slept in past 7:00am after getting back late on Sunday night. Your mom gave him a run around the golf course on Monday. And I gave him my best Frisbee exercise yesterday afternoon. He just wouldn't run for me. Tonight after baseball I gave Copper some decent Frisbee throws in between supervising the boys' showers. But while he was off searching for the Frisbee, I went in to check on the boys. When I came back, Copper was no where to be found. I knew he went out for a run, and there was nothing I could do at that point. I continued bed time, and by the time I got the boys settled down in their beds Copper was cooling off on the back porch. Thank goodness.
I'm not sure how it happened, but I have another honey-do for you. We now have two broken screen doors. I saw Copper run right into and mangle the metal frame of our kitchen screen door shortly after you left. Today I just noticed that the screen in our bedroom screen door is pulled out of the bottom. I have been leaving the doors open a lot lately with the beautiful weather we have been having. Copper enjoys lying by the screen door at night, and the damage looks like it could have been his mistake again, but I didn't witness it this time. Side note: The night before last I really wanted to sleep with the doors open, but sprinklers had been running on the golf course that night and it smelled so bad that I just couldn't handle it. Bummer.
Do you remember before you left how the receiver got stuck on a song and wouldn't go back to the main menu for Pandora? It happened again. I think you were able to refresh it by unplugging it for a few minutes. It is an easy fix (which I haven't gotten around to doing yet--not a big priority), but I thought you might be interested in knowing about it.
I took care of the oil change this afternoon. I had them do the full check and everything (including tire pressure) looked fine. I will still have the tires rotated and balanced if you like. In the car today I mentioned how smudgy the windows were. Ryan offered to help me wash them this weekend. How sweet! And a great idea. I might even wash Copper while I'm at it.
I'm glad that you have been enjoying some beautiful weather. I hope you continue to have some perfect days for hiking.
Ryan asked who was taking him to baseball today: Oma? No. Daddy? (...???...) We miss you and love you.
I have been seeing Daddy Wren make more appearances lately. On my first day back I thought I saw a wren feeding the babies. Then I realized it was Dad bringing Mom a bug snack. In fact, I just witnessed Daddy Wren catch a moth that was resting on the back sliding glass door and give it a good shake-down before flying off with it. I'm sorry you're not here to witness it. I hope the wrens come back next year for you.
Our new neighbors moved in today. The moving truck was unloading when I got home from school today. I saw the mom for half a minute when I went to greet the boys off the boys. We waved and I was going to go over and say hello with the boys, but she was gone by the time we dropped their backpacks in the house. I had planned on making an apple pie this week, since it sounded good on vacation. I think I will make an extra and bring it over to the new neighbors and officially meet them.
I am thinking about talking to Tammy about my reading with Logan. I just can't keep up with it when we have a baseball game or practice the same day. That happened both Monday and Wednesday this week. It's just one more thing that eats up my time in the afternoon with the boys.
I started a 30-day challenge at the beginning of March. It was a photo-a-day challenge, with an assigned topic for each day. I liked that the topics were varied and gave little glimpses into my life.
It lasted 7 days....
I still want to finish the photo challenge, but I think I will have to start fresh in April. Going out of town twice in March messed it up.
I haven't gotten back in the groove with Copper's exercise yet and I paid for it tonight. I had to drive to school Tuesday (story time) and Wednesday (library) this week. And I elected to drive the boys on Monday since we all slept in past 7:00am after getting back late on Sunday night. Your mom gave him a run around the golf course on Monday. And I gave him my best Frisbee exercise yesterday afternoon. He just wouldn't run for me. Tonight after baseball I gave Copper some decent Frisbee throws in between supervising the boys' showers. But while he was off searching for the Frisbee, I went in to check on the boys. When I came back, Copper was no where to be found. I knew he went out for a run, and there was nothing I could do at that point. I continued bed time, and by the time I got the boys settled down in their beds Copper was cooling off on the back porch. Thank goodness.
I'm not sure how it happened, but I have another honey-do for you. We now have two broken screen doors. I saw Copper run right into and mangle the metal frame of our kitchen screen door shortly after you left. Today I just noticed that the screen in our bedroom screen door is pulled out of the bottom. I have been leaving the doors open a lot lately with the beautiful weather we have been having. Copper enjoys lying by the screen door at night, and the damage looks like it could have been his mistake again, but I didn't witness it this time. Side note: The night before last I really wanted to sleep with the doors open, but sprinklers had been running on the golf course that night and it smelled so bad that I just couldn't handle it. Bummer.
Do you remember before you left how the receiver got stuck on a song and wouldn't go back to the main menu for Pandora? It happened again. I think you were able to refresh it by unplugging it for a few minutes. It is an easy fix (which I haven't gotten around to doing yet--not a big priority), but I thought you might be interested in knowing about it.
I took care of the oil change this afternoon. I had them do the full check and everything (including tire pressure) looked fine. I will still have the tires rotated and balanced if you like. In the car today I mentioned how smudgy the windows were. Ryan offered to help me wash them this weekend. How sweet! And a great idea. I might even wash Copper while I'm at it.
I'm glad that you have been enjoying some beautiful weather. I hope you continue to have some perfect days for hiking.
Ryan asked who was taking him to baseball today: Oma? No. Daddy? (...???...) We miss you and love you.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Neighborhood Posse
"Yesterday" (a week ago) I got sidetracked and spent my post reminiscing about my childhood home. What I really wanted to talk about was how grateful I am for my current home and neighborhood.
We live on a relatively quiet dead-end street. We know quite a few of our neighbors and like most all of them. That wasn't always the case.
One of my neighbors recently asked me if I remembered my former next-door neighbor, "Crazy Sarah." Do I remember? Oh, do I! She is the one who was calling the cops over to her house at least once a week. She also called Child Services on us for neglecting our five children and for running a meth lab--this before we even had kids! At first it was funny, in a ridiculous sort of way. Then I started to get scared about what might happen if we did have kids and she kept making these absurd accusations. Fortunately, her family had Sarah committed in Alabama, and the family that bought her house have turned out to be great neighbors.
We also had a few run-ins with the neighbor on the other side of Sarah. They looked at us as being a little trashy (so maybe we are, a little). They owned the nicest house on the block and were bothered that the rest of the neighborhood didn't have the time and finances to maintain as perfectly groomed a lawn as they did. They also didn't like where we stored our garbage can outside, and they were sure that we were the reason they couldn't sell their house (not that the economy or their high asking price were the problem...). The husband tried to pressure Brett into making certain changes, which only caused Brett to want to go out of his way to annoy this neighbor. We managed to solve that problem by having Brett's brother move here from Virginia and buy the house.
Since our "problem-neighbors" have been taken care of, our family has been free to enjoy our good and peaceful street. So, who are the people in my neighborhood? Let me tell you.
First of all, did I mention that Brett's brother lives two doors down, compete with one of my favorite sisters-in-law and two nieces the perfect age for babysitting? And, they have a Wii (big attraction with my boys).
Brett's parents also live just a one-minute walk away, across the fairway. My boys have three loving homes that they can hop back and forth between.
Although she doesn't live on our street, Oma and Papa's neighbor Missy Hall has been a dear family friend for years. She doesn't have grandchildren of her own and absolutely loves the Wendel boys and Wendel girls.
We have some older folks on our street and we are so fortunate that they are not of the "old and crotchety" variety. Karl and Helen are the sweetest old couple, about eighty years old. They walk together every day down the street and back home along the golf course. Karl loved our dog Sandy, and Sandy loved him. Karl literally shed a few tears on our behalf a year ago when he heard the news that she passed away. Now that Copper has calmed down (and is less likely to knock them over) Brett always encourages Copper to go say hi when they pass by our house. Karl and Helen are always so kind, and tell me what a beautiful mother I am. Who doesn't like to hear that?
Peggy and Betsy are also sweet older ladies. Peggy, a widow who lives with her son across from me, and Betsy, who lives with her husband down the street, have been neighborhood friends for years. They walk together most every morning and hit the garage sales together most every Saturday. I admire Betsy who carries a little plastic sack to pick up any trash she comes across while walking down the street. And the boys love Peggy's little white fluffy dog, Darlin'. The boys also love Peggy's climbing tree in her front side yard.
Deede, another neighbor across the street is a lot of fun. She goes all-out decorating for Christmas. I love seeing her lights from my house. She invites the whole neighborhood to her annual Christmas party, which is always a lot of fun. My boys immediately gravitate to her garage where they know the air hockey competitions are held. The boys also love her inflatable Frankenstein-type character that she sets up at Halloween. The first year Deede set it up Sandy growled at it for days. For a while my boys couldn't remember Deede's name and called her the lady at Mr. Bones' house. (I have no idea how they came up with the name "Mr. Bones," as it doesn't really fit his description.) Now we look forward to seeing Mr. Bones, and now the boys know Deede's name. Deede has two teenage sons who are relatively close in age. It has been interesting and a little funny to watch them over the past few years and think about all we have to look forward to as the parents of older boys who might occasionally get into a little mischief.
We always like to stop and say hi to Vicky as she walks her big collie, Nicki. Some time ago Nicki kept escaping through the fence of her backyard and always stopped by our house first. The fence finally had to be replaced, and we have missed her surprise visits to our house. Ryan would get so excited: "MOM! Nicki's here!"
We have another Hall family living a few doors down. We became acquainted with them through our dogs. Their dog Bailey occasionally runs over to greet us and our dogs. And Sandy got into the habit of disappearing every afternoon for a half hour or so. One day the Halls mentioned to us that Sandy came to their back door every afternoon for a little dog treat. When Sandy showed up all of the dogs (they have two or three) would line up waiting their turn.
I enjoyed getting to know Shari last year at the bus stop. It is nice to have somebody to wait with there each morning. Shari often comes still in her pajamas, and I often come looking grubby in my own way--unshowered, crazy hair, no makeup, etc. How nice to have neighbors who don't care what I look like! I have also enjoyed getting to know her daughter Erin, who is now one of my piano students.
I have also been especially grateful for our next-door neighbors--the ones who moved into Crazy Sarah's house. They had a little boy two months after I had Ryan. Their son Logan has become good friends with my boys and it has been so nice seeing the boys play together. My boys always spend more time outside playing with Logan than they would on their own. Logan feels comfortable at our house and walks right in looking for Todd and Ryan. My boys feel equally comfortable at Logan's house and climb right over the fence into their back yard. (We actually wanted them to climb the fence rather than use the gate because one of the three would inevitably let one of their dogs out.)
I think Logan looks at Todd and Ryan the same way he would his own cousins. In fact, he calls our Oma "Oma", and our Uncle Mark "Uncle Mark" and my boys call his Poppy "Poppy" and his Grammy "Grammy." Logan has joined us in decorating our Christmas tree and carving our jack-o-lantern.
The boys have fun dressing up and playing Indiana Jones, Clone Troopers, pirates, and more. They grab their swords, light sabers, or guns and go off to defend the world.
Logan has three boy cousins who are relatively close in age to our boys. The six boys had a good time playing together, running, hiding, chasing, and generally being boys. Brett quickly gave them the nickname of "The Posse." As in, when The Posse's together there's no playing in the house. Outside play only.
As I mentioned before, my boys don't have the same amount of free roam that I had growing up. However, between our house, Logan's house, Uncle Mark's house, Oma's house, cousins, neighbors that are almost family, a few trees to climb, and plenty of space to run around in--I think we are quite blessed.
The Posse:
We live on a relatively quiet dead-end street. We know quite a few of our neighbors and like most all of them. That wasn't always the case.
One of my neighbors recently asked me if I remembered my former next-door neighbor, "Crazy Sarah." Do I remember? Oh, do I! She is the one who was calling the cops over to her house at least once a week. She also called Child Services on us for neglecting our five children and for running a meth lab--this before we even had kids! At first it was funny, in a ridiculous sort of way. Then I started to get scared about what might happen if we did have kids and she kept making these absurd accusations. Fortunately, her family had Sarah committed in Alabama, and the family that bought her house have turned out to be great neighbors.
We also had a few run-ins with the neighbor on the other side of Sarah. They looked at us as being a little trashy (so maybe we are, a little). They owned the nicest house on the block and were bothered that the rest of the neighborhood didn't have the time and finances to maintain as perfectly groomed a lawn as they did. They also didn't like where we stored our garbage can outside, and they were sure that we were the reason they couldn't sell their house (not that the economy or their high asking price were the problem...). The husband tried to pressure Brett into making certain changes, which only caused Brett to want to go out of his way to annoy this neighbor. We managed to solve that problem by having Brett's brother move here from Virginia and buy the house.
Since our "problem-neighbors" have been taken care of, our family has been free to enjoy our good and peaceful street. So, who are the people in my neighborhood? Let me tell you.
First of all, did I mention that Brett's brother lives two doors down, compete with one of my favorite sisters-in-law and two nieces the perfect age for babysitting? And, they have a Wii (big attraction with my boys).
Brett's parents also live just a one-minute walk away, across the fairway. My boys have three loving homes that they can hop back and forth between.
Although she doesn't live on our street, Oma and Papa's neighbor Missy Hall has been a dear family friend for years. She doesn't have grandchildren of her own and absolutely loves the Wendel boys and Wendel girls.
We have some older folks on our street and we are so fortunate that they are not of the "old and crotchety" variety. Karl and Helen are the sweetest old couple, about eighty years old. They walk together every day down the street and back home along the golf course. Karl loved our dog Sandy, and Sandy loved him. Karl literally shed a few tears on our behalf a year ago when he heard the news that she passed away. Now that Copper has calmed down (and is less likely to knock them over) Brett always encourages Copper to go say hi when they pass by our house. Karl and Helen are always so kind, and tell me what a beautiful mother I am. Who doesn't like to hear that?
Peggy and Betsy are also sweet older ladies. Peggy, a widow who lives with her son across from me, and Betsy, who lives with her husband down the street, have been neighborhood friends for years. They walk together most every morning and hit the garage sales together most every Saturday. I admire Betsy who carries a little plastic sack to pick up any trash she comes across while walking down the street. And the boys love Peggy's little white fluffy dog, Darlin'. The boys also love Peggy's climbing tree in her front side yard.
Deede, another neighbor across the street is a lot of fun. She goes all-out decorating for Christmas. I love seeing her lights from my house. She invites the whole neighborhood to her annual Christmas party, which is always a lot of fun. My boys immediately gravitate to her garage where they know the air hockey competitions are held. The boys also love her inflatable Frankenstein-type character that she sets up at Halloween. The first year Deede set it up Sandy growled at it for days. For a while my boys couldn't remember Deede's name and called her the lady at Mr. Bones' house. (I have no idea how they came up with the name "Mr. Bones," as it doesn't really fit his description.) Now we look forward to seeing Mr. Bones, and now the boys know Deede's name. Deede has two teenage sons who are relatively close in age. It has been interesting and a little funny to watch them over the past few years and think about all we have to look forward to as the parents of older boys who might occasionally get into a little mischief.
We always like to stop and say hi to Vicky as she walks her big collie, Nicki. Some time ago Nicki kept escaping through the fence of her backyard and always stopped by our house first. The fence finally had to be replaced, and we have missed her surprise visits to our house. Ryan would get so excited: "MOM! Nicki's here!"
We have another Hall family living a few doors down. We became acquainted with them through our dogs. Their dog Bailey occasionally runs over to greet us and our dogs. And Sandy got into the habit of disappearing every afternoon for a half hour or so. One day the Halls mentioned to us that Sandy came to their back door every afternoon for a little dog treat. When Sandy showed up all of the dogs (they have two or three) would line up waiting their turn.
I enjoyed getting to know Shari last year at the bus stop. It is nice to have somebody to wait with there each morning. Shari often comes still in her pajamas, and I often come looking grubby in my own way--unshowered, crazy hair, no makeup, etc. How nice to have neighbors who don't care what I look like! I have also enjoyed getting to know her daughter Erin, who is now one of my piano students.
I have also been especially grateful for our next-door neighbors--the ones who moved into Crazy Sarah's house. They had a little boy two months after I had Ryan. Their son Logan has become good friends with my boys and it has been so nice seeing the boys play together. My boys always spend more time outside playing with Logan than they would on their own. Logan feels comfortable at our house and walks right in looking for Todd and Ryan. My boys feel equally comfortable at Logan's house and climb right over the fence into their back yard. (We actually wanted them to climb the fence rather than use the gate because one of the three would inevitably let one of their dogs out.)
I think Logan looks at Todd and Ryan the same way he would his own cousins. In fact, he calls our Oma "Oma", and our Uncle Mark "Uncle Mark" and my boys call his Poppy "Poppy" and his Grammy "Grammy." Logan has joined us in decorating our Christmas tree and carving our jack-o-lantern.
The boys have fun dressing up and playing Indiana Jones, Clone Troopers, pirates, and more. They grab their swords, light sabers, or guns and go off to defend the world.
Logan has three boy cousins who are relatively close in age to our boys. The six boys had a good time playing together, running, hiding, chasing, and generally being boys. Brett quickly gave them the nickname of "The Posse." As in, when The Posse's together there's no playing in the house. Outside play only.
As I mentioned before, my boys don't have the same amount of free roam that I had growing up. However, between our house, Logan's house, Uncle Mark's house, Oma's house, cousins, neighbors that are almost family, a few trees to climb, and plenty of space to run around in--I think we are quite blessed.
The Posse:
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Future Missionary
While this approach may not be the most kind, gentle, or understanding, his heart is in the right place.
[Ryan, talking to our next door neighbor Logan and Logan's cousin]
Ryan: Do you go to church?
Cousin: Well, sometimes yes and sometimes no.
Ryan: Oh. Well, you should every Sunday.
Cousin: Sometimes when I don't go, I stay on the couch and watch T.V.
Ryan (somewhat shocked, and very serious): Oh! That's a baaaad idea.
[To get the full effect, you really have to hear Ryan's emphasis. I need a way to bottle Ryan's manner of speech. I haven't been able to record it yet, because he never talks that way on demand. So often when I try to blog about his little sayings I fall short. I just can't convey them the same way without his tone of voice. I love hearing him talk about something he feel strongly about.]
[Ryan, talking to our next door neighbor Logan and Logan's cousin]
Ryan: Do you go to church?
Cousin: Well, sometimes yes and sometimes no.
Ryan: Oh. Well, you should every Sunday.
Cousin: Sometimes when I don't go, I stay on the couch and watch T.V.
Ryan (somewhat shocked, and very serious): Oh! That's a baaaad idea.
[To get the full effect, you really have to hear Ryan's emphasis. I need a way to bottle Ryan's manner of speech. I haven't been able to record it yet, because he never talks that way on demand. So often when I try to blog about his little sayings I fall short. I just can't convey them the same way without his tone of voice. I love hearing him talk about something he feel strongly about.]
Sunday, December 21, 2008
In Case You Were Wondering Where I've Been
I don't know about you, but I have had a hard time keeping up with all of my December activities. I had high hopes for doing special Christmas readings and activities with my kids each night. Unfortunately, I feel like I have been gone every other evening this month and have not been able to do half of the things with the boys that I wanted. On the flip side, as Brett reminded me, everything I have been doing has been fun. But while I have had fun and have enjoyed visiting with friends, I have felt over-scheduled this month and look forward to staying home more this coming week.
Here are some of the fun photographed events I have participated in.
Five choral performances this Christmas season--that's quite a few for our small group!
Playgroup graham cracker tree-train-house-or-whatever-you-like decorating activity. Ryan decided to go for the less-complicated graham cracker tree. I couldn't tell you how much candy he ate that morning, but it was at least as much as he put on the tree.
After finishing his tree, Ryan got to do what he was most looking forward to: dressing up like Darth Vader.
Yes, there are at least 1,368 cookies on those two tables. I realize that 6 dozen cookies is a lot to take home. But, if you were making Christmas cookies for you family, you would probably end up making two batches of cookies--that's about 6 dozen cookies. Also, with more than 19 types of cookies you may only end up with 2 to 4 cookies of each type. What a disappointment if you only ended up with ONE of the very best cookies you had ever tried. It's bad enough that I only ended up with about four of the Dipped Cherry Cookies (and, no, I didn't share).
Here are some of the fun photographed events I have participated in.
Five choral performances this Christmas season--that's quite a few for our small group!
Playgroup graham cracker tree-train-house-or-whatever-you-like decorating activity. Ryan decided to go for the less-complicated graham cracker tree. I couldn't tell you how much candy he ate that morning, but it was at least as much as he put on the tree.
After finishing his tree, Ryan got to do what he was most looking forward to: dressing up like Darth Vader.
Anne and I hosted our annual cookie exchange, and had a huge group! I think everyone who attended had a pretty good time.
Yes, there are at least 1,368 cookies on those two tables. I realize that 6 dozen cookies is a lot to take home. But, if you were making Christmas cookies for you family, you would probably end up making two batches of cookies--that's about 6 dozen cookies. Also, with more than 19 types of cookies you may only end up with 2 to 4 cookies of each type. What a disappointment if you only ended up with ONE of the very best cookies you had ever tried. It's bad enough that I only ended up with about four of the Dipped Cherry Cookies (and, no, I didn't share).
Caroling at the Pavilion with Ryan's preschool class.
Isn't this about the cutest thing you have seen? Nobody told me that the "uniform" included jeans and long-sleeves.... As always, I let Ryan pick out his own outfit. I was just grateful that Ryan was willing to wear the Rudolph shirt that he made with his class that morning instead of his beloved Speed Racer shirt.
Ryan, smiling with his best preschool friend, Claire.
Ryan had to stop by the "Popcorn Tree" in the cafeteria. Ryan informed me that last year he ate some of the popcorn off the tree last year when we sang with our playgroup. If I can get my act together, I may try to string popcorn chains for our tree at home. I still have three days, right?
I couldn't believe that Ryan actually gave a hug to some of the residents we sang to. Little Amber was the best example of unconditional love, happily giving hugs and saying Merry Christmas to everyone. It was nice to see a little of it rub off on Ryan that morning.
Todd's teacher graciously allowed Ryan to participate in their gingerbread house decorating. Again, I couldn't tell you how much candy those boys ate compared with how much ended up on their trees. (Okay, I popped some candy in my mouth too while I watched them decorate.)
Beautiful temptations.
Back at school again for the Kindergarten Christmas program on the last day of school. This time Oma and "Missy" Hall, a long-time neighbor/family friend, joined me. They gave the parents a chance to take photos at the end of the program before the kids left the risers. I managed to snap a photo of the craziness with Todd actually looking at me. (He's wearing the red and white striped polo shirt.) I was happy to see that Todd sang the songs even though he was kind of shy about it.
My favorite part about the Christmas program is probably the practicing that Todd did in preparation for it. They learned "Silent Night" in sign language. Todd sang it quite a few times at home and taught me how to do the signs with him. I loved singing and signing "Silent Night" with him or just watching him sign the song in our quiet house just before bed. It warms my heart.
Just this weekend I attended a birthday party for my friend, Anne. Happy 30th, Anne. You're still a Spring chicken as far as I'm concerned.
Caught you, Todd! You're not supposed to lick the knife. Fortunately, each child had his own container of frosting.
Beautiful temptations.
We went back to Todd's kindergarten class for their Christmas party. Again, Ryan was allowed to participate in the activities. The teacher split the kids by gender and had them pass around a multi-layer-wrapped gift while she played some music. When the music stopped, the child with the gift opened a layer of paper which revealed a small surprise (candy, for the boys). That child left the circle with his surprise and the music started again. Todd and Ryan were the last two boys left. I was worried that Ryan might be the last one standing. I didn't want that happen, since he's not even a part of the class. Fortunately, Todd was the winner instead. He peeled off the last layer of paper to reveal a package of two Transformers Robot Heroes. What fun!
As if I had not seen enough cookies this month, I made some Pecan Puffets to include in a little Christmas present for Todd's teacher. I was making those cookies close to midnight on the night before the last day of school. But, I got it finished, and I thought the final result was quite darling. It included some packages of gourmet hot chocolate, some apple cinnamon herbal tea, and a sweet Christmas ornament that Todd picked out from our local Hallmark bookstore and signed on the back.
Back at school again for the Kindergarten Christmas program on the last day of school. This time Oma and "Missy" Hall, a long-time neighbor/family friend, joined me. They gave the parents a chance to take photos at the end of the program before the kids left the risers. I managed to snap a photo of the craziness with Todd actually looking at me. (He's wearing the red and white striped polo shirt.) I was happy to see that Todd sang the songs even though he was kind of shy about it.
My favorite part about the Christmas program is probably the practicing that Todd did in preparation for it. They learned "Silent Night" in sign language. Todd sang it quite a few times at home and taught me how to do the signs with him. I loved singing and signing "Silent Night" with him or just watching him sign the song in our quiet house just before bed. It warms my heart.
Just this weekend I attended a birthday party for my friend, Anne. Happy 30th, Anne. You're still a Spring chicken as far as I'm concerned.
In addition to the above photographed events, I also participated in various Relief Society activities, weekly piano lessons, Brett's work Christmas party (unfortunately, without Brett, as he was stuck in Pensacola working until late and had to miss the boat for our dinner cruise), a neighbor's Christmas party, church choir rehearsals and performances (this week and last week), and a little bit of Christmas shopping thrown in just for fun.
On top of all these activities, after an emotional night last night, I was in need of some good down-time. I found it in the way of hanging out with Mark and Donna. Brett suggested that we go over there earlier in the afternoon. We all sat around in the living room watching Kellie and Todd play Mario Kart on the Wii, followed by a little Mythbusters. Brett went home to try to get some more rest, but the boys and I stayed, ate dinner, and watched The Incredibles with the rest of the family. It was so nice snuggling on the couch with everyone. Mark was on the recliner with 12-year-old Kellie asleep in his lap; Donna was on one side of the sectional couch; and Todd, Casie, Ryan, and I were snuggled on the other side. Ryan and I took turns being a pillow for the other, and it was just what I needed.
I hope to fit in a few more evenings like that this week.
I hope to fit in a few more evenings like that this week.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Happy Halloween
Halloween lasted all day long for us. Actually, more than that since we attended the carnival at the church on Wednesday night. Those photos will have to wait for another post. This is all about our Halloween Friday.
It started early with a kindergarten costume parade at 9:00am. The kids were supposed to wear/bring their costumes to school in the morning. For whatever reason, Todd did not want to bring his Indiana Jones accessories on the bus with him. At the last minute, I let him get on the bus in his brown pants and tan shirt, not looking like much of anything since the accessories make the outfit. I told him that I would bring the stuff to school when I came for the parade. I showed up about 3 minutes early. I had been hoping to get there earlier than that, but figured it would take a while to get a bunch of kindergartners dressed and organized. Besides, how long does it take to put on a hat and shoulder bag? Imagine my surprise when I saw that they had just started the parade--early!
Todd's teacher had put a cowboy hat and bandanna on him, and though I offered to pull Todd out of line for the 10 seconds it would take to change out the accessories he wasn't interested. He was perfectly happy to be a cowboy (just like another friend in his class who came sans costume).
I had no idea that the kindergartners were putting on a 30-minute show following the parade. It was such a nice surprise. They were so cute singing all their Halloween songs. Here, Todd and his classmate stand up for the cowboy verse of one song:
Nine little cowboys saying "Yee-haw!"
Saying "Yee-haw!"
Saying "Yee-haw!"
Nine little cowboys saying "Yee-haw!"
For this is Halloween
After the parade and show Ryan and I returned home to finish baking the sugar cookies I signed up to bring for Todd's class party at 1:00pm. It was a fun little party. Ryan was excited that he could stay and play on the playground with Todd's class for recess before leaving for the day.
We had some time to relax when we got home before heading out for our evening activities. We decided to go to Oma's house and show off the costumes. On the way over, the boys came across a "bad-guy" tree that needed to be whipped into shape.
These whips that I made are no longer soft, harmless toys. Ryan has figured out how to control it better. Look at how he gets the whip wrapped around the tree. We had to establish the rule of no using the whip close to people. They usually remember, but unfortunately for me, when they don't remember it doesn't feel so good.
Trick-or-treating at Oma and Poppa's door:
Like (grand-)father like (grand-)son. These two are like peas in a pod. They both loving playing games and other quiet, thinking activities (puzzles, Legos, etc.) together.
After a beautiful afternoon with Oma and Poppa, including an impromptu dinner, we headed back home to go trick-or-treating on our street. The boys had a great time going up and down our street. I'm so happy that we didn't skip out on that part of Halloween. I think the neighbors were happy to see the boys. I had one neighbor who sincerely thanked me for bringing the boys by. We have such few young kids on our street, that most of our neighbors know the boys or at least recognize them from playing outside. 
It only took us about 45 minutes to do trick-or-treating. After that we went to OrangeFest, an activity open to the community every Halloween. It is hosted by a local church, and we have attended the past three years. Each year it gets bigger and bigger. Ryan poses with the crash-test dummies and looks like he just witnessed a crash himself judging by the expression on his face. Todd was too shy join in the picture, even though I offered to go with him.
The boys played some carnival games--bean bag tosses, that sort of thing--but what Todd was looking forward to most was the inflatable slide. Unfortunately, because there were so many people there, the lines were bigger and the boys only went on the slide once.
They did get to try another inflatable, an obstacle course which they loved. I could not believe how quickly Todd climbed the wall. He was halfway up before I got there to take a photo.
I did not realize how much Ryan was looking forward to getting a glow stick until the night was almost over and we still had not been able to find one. Donna had to stop by the grocery store on the way home and saved the day by coming out with a bright glow stick for Todd and Ryan. The boys got everything they wanted this year! They were so happy. 
It started early with a kindergarten costume parade at 9:00am. The kids were supposed to wear/bring their costumes to school in the morning. For whatever reason, Todd did not want to bring his Indiana Jones accessories on the bus with him. At the last minute, I let him get on the bus in his brown pants and tan shirt, not looking like much of anything since the accessories make the outfit. I told him that I would bring the stuff to school when I came for the parade. I showed up about 3 minutes early. I had been hoping to get there earlier than that, but figured it would take a while to get a bunch of kindergartners dressed and organized. Besides, how long does it take to put on a hat and shoulder bag? Imagine my surprise when I saw that they had just started the parade--early!
Todd's teacher had put a cowboy hat and bandanna on him, and though I offered to pull Todd out of line for the 10 seconds it would take to change out the accessories he wasn't interested. He was perfectly happy to be a cowboy (just like another friend in his class who came sans costume).
I had no idea that the kindergartners were putting on a 30-minute show following the parade. It was such a nice surprise. They were so cute singing all their Halloween songs. Here, Todd and his classmate stand up for the cowboy verse of one song:
Nine little cowboys saying "Yee-haw!"
Saying "Yee-haw!"
Saying "Yee-haw!"
Nine little cowboys saying "Yee-haw!"
For this is Halloween
After the parade and show Ryan and I returned home to finish baking the sugar cookies I signed up to bring for Todd's class party at 1:00pm. It was a fun little party. Ryan was excited that he could stay and play on the playground with Todd's class for recess before leaving for the day.
We had some time to relax when we got home before heading out for our evening activities. We decided to go to Oma's house and show off the costumes. On the way over, the boys came across a "bad-guy" tree that needed to be whipped into shape.
These whips that I made are no longer soft, harmless toys. Ryan has figured out how to control it better. Look at how he gets the whip wrapped around the tree. We had to establish the rule of no using the whip close to people. They usually remember, but unfortunately for me, when they don't remember it doesn't feel so good.
Trick-or-treating at Oma and Poppa's door:
Like (grand-)father like (grand-)son. These two are like peas in a pod. They both loving playing games and other quiet, thinking activities (puzzles, Legos, etc.) together.
I consider the boys lucky to have an active grandmother who is so much better at sports than their mother. Oma puts me to shame. Here, Ryan warms up at the plate:
The pitch:
The pitch:
Rounding the bases:
After a beautiful afternoon with Oma and Poppa, including an impromptu dinner, we headed back home to go trick-or-treating on our street. The boys had a great time going up and down our street. I'm so happy that we didn't skip out on that part of Halloween. I think the neighbors were happy to see the boys. I had one neighbor who sincerely thanked me for bringing the boys by. We have such few young kids on our street, that most of our neighbors know the boys or at least recognize them from playing outside.
Here the boys pose with Mr. Bones (so named by them two years ago). Our across-the-street neighbor really decorates for Halloween and Christmas. The boys were so excited when they saw Mr. Bones set up at the beginning of the month. The first time that our dogs saw Mr. Bones two years ago they wouldn't stop barking at it. This year I don't think Mr. Bones elicited a single woof.
It only took us about 45 minutes to do trick-or-treating. After that we went to OrangeFest, an activity open to the community every Halloween. It is hosted by a local church, and we have attended the past three years. Each year it gets bigger and bigger. Ryan poses with the crash-test dummies and looks like he just witnessed a crash himself judging by the expression on his face. Todd was too shy join in the picture, even though I offered to go with him.
The boys played some carnival games--bean bag tosses, that sort of thing--but what Todd was looking forward to most was the inflatable slide. Unfortunately, because there were so many people there, the lines were bigger and the boys only went on the slide once.
They did get to try another inflatable, an obstacle course which they loved. I could not believe how quickly Todd climbed the wall. He was halfway up before I got there to take a photo.
I did not realize how much Ryan was looking forward to getting a glow stick until the night was almost over and we still had not been able to find one. Donna had to stop by the grocery store on the way home and saved the day by coming out with a bright glow stick for Todd and Ryan. The boys got everything they wanted this year! They were so happy.
They had fun with Daddy when we got home, playing games with the glow sticks in the front yard. They would throw it high into the sky and call it a shooting star as they watched it fall. There was a little glitch in the game when one of the sticks landed in our neighbor's tree. Fortunately, it was easy to spot and was not far from the ground. One of their favorite games to play with the glow stick was spinning it around and around in the dark.
We will never dress our dogs for Halloween (or anything else). This year's joke, however, was directed at Sandy. Ryan had wanted to "take Sandy for a walk" (inside the house) a few days before Halloween. Surprisingly, Sandy cooperated and let Ryan put on a collar. Since the collar is really Copper's, the joke was that Sandy was dressed up as Copper for Halloween. And there were a few times when the disguise fooled me!
We will never dress our dogs for Halloween (or anything else). This year's joke, however, was directed at Sandy. Ryan had wanted to "take Sandy for a walk" (inside the house) a few days before Halloween. Surprisingly, Sandy cooperated and let Ryan put on a collar. Since the collar is really Copper's, the joke was that Sandy was dressed up as Copper for Halloween. And there were a few times when the disguise fooled me!
Hope you had a happy Halloween as well.
Now that Halloween is over, I can't believe that the other big holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Anniversary, New Year's) are just around the corner. Would you believe they started playing Christmas music at Walmart this weekend? Don't get me started! That's too early for even me, who loves Christmas music.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Hammock-Worthy Weather
This post is hard for me to write. These photos were taken earlier this week when it was sunny, dry, and the perfect temperature for keeping your doors and windows open: cool mornings, warming up to shorts-and-T-shirt afternoons.
Today it has been wet and rainy all day. Even now as I type I still hear the wind and the rain. I don't think it's let up much since since 1:00pm. It is hard to believe that yesterday was absolutely gorgeous.
I had been setting up our big hammock outside quite often. (We don't keep it up all the time because the rope mildews and rots too quickly when left out.) Ryan has enjoyed a few "rest times" on the hammock when Todd has been at school.
I have enjoyed some nice quiet time out there with Ryan as well. Ryan especially enjoys being read to on the hammock. He frequently brings a pillow to the hammock with him. One word: heavenly. 
Ryan even got Daddy to lay down for a few minutes and read "Harry the Dirty Dog," his favorite book this week.
Here's hoping for more hammock-worthy weather, and time to enjoy it after the rain leaves!
Today it has been wet and rainy all day. Even now as I type I still hear the wind and the rain. I don't think it's let up much since since 1:00pm. It is hard to believe that yesterday was absolutely gorgeous.
I had been setting up our big hammock outside quite often. (We don't keep it up all the time because the rope mildews and rots too quickly when left out.) Ryan has enjoyed a few "rest times" on the hammock when Todd has been at school.
I have enjoyed some nice quiet time out there with Ryan as well. Ryan especially enjoys being read to on the hammock. He frequently brings a pillow to the hammock with him. One word: heavenly. 
Ryan even got Daddy to lay down for a few minutes and read "Harry the Dirty Dog," his favorite book this week.
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