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 wrens. Show all posts
Showing posts with label wrens. Show all posts
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
For Brett From Home (5/22/12)
Well, it has happened--I got computer help from my nine-year-old son. After seeing me struggle for a little while on the computer, Todd came in and fixed the problem for me. Don't ask me how it happened, but the desktop was rotated 90 degrees. Which means that working the mouse felt off as well. I'm still not sure how he knew the solution so quickly, but I was grateful that he helped me out before I got frustrated.
I was also paid a nice compliment on Ryan's behalf at school last week. The mom who comes in for Smiley Math (a once-a-week volunteer-run program that gives kids the opportunity to earn points by working out logic problems, etc.) chatted with me in the library. There was a calendar-related problem on their last worksheet, and she was impressed with the unique method Ryan used to solve the problem (relabeling the days of the week to calculate the question more quickly). She said Ryan was the only one who approached the problem differently and it really showed "thinking outside the box." I often get frustrated that Ryan goes through his work so quickly (and sloppily). She pointed that his desire to get done quickly helped him come up with an easier (and still correct) solution. It was a good reminder for me to look for the positive qualities in my children and not just be quick to criticize when things are not done my way.
I am finding it hard to eat up the food in the fridge and freezer before summer. I am simply not cooking like I do with you at home. (I would miss cooking more if it weren't for the baseball schedule.) My lazy protein has been cooking with eggs, quite often. A typical late breakfast or lunch for me is an open-faced fried egg sandwich with Cheddar on an English muffin. Mmmm. I have also been known to cook that for dinner when the boys eat at your mom's. It's also good as an after-the-boys-are-in-bed supper. It's good anytime of day!
I missed the roses blooming on the side of the house this year. I just didn't take the time to check on them. I didn't miss out on the hydrangeas. They are full of blooms and I have enjoyed cutting them and keeping a vase of them in the kitchen. I have vase full of beautiful blue blooms right now. I love them! I am also enjoying the gardenias. They don't last too long before they start wilting (inside or out), but they smell so sweet. I love them, too! I also love my pink Gerber daisies, though they are not producing as many blooms these days. I started quizzing the boys on the flowers I kept inside, just so they would know what some of Mommy's favorites are.
You'll never believe what I saw about two weeks ago: I drove by a young man rollerblading on Forest Rd. with his dog! After ten years of rollerblading with my dog in this neighborhood and a few more years in our previous neighborhood it was fun to see someone else enjoying this form of exercise.
I have been more cautious with Copper, though he has run off a few more times. Once, he ran off in the rain?!? But this last week has been good. I have also been trying to play Frisbee with him more, now that he will finally run for me. He gets so excited when he sees his toy come out. He doesn't even mind if the boys play too.
The wrens nested again in the very same spot. The babies just left the nest this afternoon. I think there were three fledglings. They were making a ruckus during my piano lessons. I explained to Todd and Ryan the conversations that were taking place between Mommy or Daddy Wren and the babies.
Mommy/Daddy Wren: Dinnertime, dinnertime, dinnertime. Where are you? Where are you? Where are you?
Babies: Food! Food! Food! Here we are! Here we are! Here we are!
Of course, it was much cuter when I was using little birdy voices to act it out. Todd, especially, liked it.
I was a little afraid of opening the garage door and moving the car out to go to baseball practice this afternoon. I didn't want to run over one of them. So I had Todd keep watch for me, and I think it worked out just fine. I have enjoyed watching the wrens this last week and it really made me miss you.
I was also paid a nice compliment on Ryan's behalf at school last week. The mom who comes in for Smiley Math (a once-a-week volunteer-run program that gives kids the opportunity to earn points by working out logic problems, etc.) chatted with me in the library. There was a calendar-related problem on their last worksheet, and she was impressed with the unique method Ryan used to solve the problem (relabeling the days of the week to calculate the question more quickly). She said Ryan was the only one who approached the problem differently and it really showed "thinking outside the box." I often get frustrated that Ryan goes through his work so quickly (and sloppily). She pointed that his desire to get done quickly helped him come up with an easier (and still correct) solution. It was a good reminder for me to look for the positive qualities in my children and not just be quick to criticize when things are not done my way.
I am finding it hard to eat up the food in the fridge and freezer before summer. I am simply not cooking like I do with you at home. (I would miss cooking more if it weren't for the baseball schedule.) My lazy protein has been cooking with eggs, quite often. A typical late breakfast or lunch for me is an open-faced fried egg sandwich with Cheddar on an English muffin. Mmmm. I have also been known to cook that for dinner when the boys eat at your mom's. It's also good as an after-the-boys-are-in-bed supper. It's good anytime of day!
I missed the roses blooming on the side of the house this year. I just didn't take the time to check on them. I didn't miss out on the hydrangeas. They are full of blooms and I have enjoyed cutting them and keeping a vase of them in the kitchen. I have vase full of beautiful blue blooms right now. I love them! I am also enjoying the gardenias. They don't last too long before they start wilting (inside or out), but they smell so sweet. I love them, too! I also love my pink Gerber daisies, though they are not producing as many blooms these days. I started quizzing the boys on the flowers I kept inside, just so they would know what some of Mommy's favorites are.
You'll never believe what I saw about two weeks ago: I drove by a young man rollerblading on Forest Rd. with his dog! After ten years of rollerblading with my dog in this neighborhood and a few more years in our previous neighborhood it was fun to see someone else enjoying this form of exercise.
I have been more cautious with Copper, though he has run off a few more times. Once, he ran off in the rain?!? But this last week has been good. I have also been trying to play Frisbee with him more, now that he will finally run for me. He gets so excited when he sees his toy come out. He doesn't even mind if the boys play too.
The wrens nested again in the very same spot. The babies just left the nest this afternoon. I think there were three fledglings. They were making a ruckus during my piano lessons. I explained to Todd and Ryan the conversations that were taking place between Mommy or Daddy Wren and the babies.
Mommy/Daddy Wren: Dinnertime, dinnertime, dinnertime. Where are you? Where are you? Where are you?
Babies: Food! Food! Food! Here we are! Here we are! Here we are!
Of course, it was much cuter when I was using little birdy voices to act it out. Todd, especially, liked it.
I was a little afraid of opening the garage door and moving the car out to go to baseball practice this afternoon. I didn't want to run over one of them. So I had Todd keep watch for me, and I think it worked out just fine. I have enjoyed watching the wrens this last week and it really made me miss you.
Monday, April 9, 2012
For Brett, From Home (4/9/12)
It was so nice to talk with you last night and the night before. I can't remember the last time we talked on the phone for an hour. I'm glad that you had a nice trail town to enjoy this beautiful spring weekend.
I'm sorry I wrapped up our conversation last night with the sad news of our dearly departed wren. I know these things happen in nature, but I worry about the two fledglings who may not be able to make it with one of their parents gone. You kind of had me freaked out about the possibility of one of the babies getting stuck somewhere in the garage. I did a quick search through the garage and didn't see anything. I think they found their way out. One of them left behind a poopy mess on the window of the back door that I will have to clean up. Ewwww.
Speaking of poopy messes. On my way back from the store this morning I noticed that the golf course was watering our road with their big poop-water sprinklers. There was absolutely no way around. I rolled up all the windows in the car and forged ahead through the spray. Now my car stinks! I think I am going to have to pull it back out of the garage and give it a rinse. Pardon me for a moment.... Whoo-eee! Peee-eww!
I took Copper for an evening golf course run yesterday. He was limping pretty badly on Saturday, so I didn't exercise him. He seemed better yesterday, but I am still nervous about running him on the road.
I've watched a few movies on Netflix this last week or two while trying to get chores done. I am a little embarrassed by how cheesy they may seem, but they were perfect for me. Light chick-flicks (including some ABC family originals) that are not objectionable and don't require much concentration. Here are some of the titles: "Revenge of the Bridesmaids," "My Fake Fiance," "Love's Kitchen," and get this one (I smile and cringe as I type it.) . . . "Pizza My Heart". I'm thinking of watching "My Future Boyfriend" next. It doesn't matter that I can't hear you laughing me at me--I'm laughing at myself!
I just got off the phone with your mom to discuss our weekly schedule. This is a necessary phone call each week. We will continue to have more scheduling phone calls as the week progresses to coordinate baseball games and practices, as well as other kid-watching needs. I'm looking forward to summer.
My sink spilleth over. This weekend of holiday activities has done a number on my kitchen. I've been so worn out the last two evenings that I haven't been able to catch up. It hasn't been this bad in a while. Today's job: dishes and laundry. If I could only finish those two things I would be a happy homemaker.
I never got to ask you how you enjoyed the Easter messages (and my drawing of Copper) we sent you in the mail drop. I still laugh that some of my messages made it into the hands of fellow hikers: "[heart] I love you, Brett! [heart]," "Hugs and Kisses from your Hun: [heart] X O X [heart] X O X [heart]," "You're one in a million! I'm proud of you for living your dreams." and "Keep it up! Our thoughts and prayers are directed to you." I'm glad that I didn't say anything too embarrassing. I don't mind that they know that you are loved and supported from home. You do indeed have our support and love (especially mine).
I'm sorry I wrapped up our conversation last night with the sad news of our dearly departed wren. I know these things happen in nature, but I worry about the two fledglings who may not be able to make it with one of their parents gone. You kind of had me freaked out about the possibility of one of the babies getting stuck somewhere in the garage. I did a quick search through the garage and didn't see anything. I think they found their way out. One of them left behind a poopy mess on the window of the back door that I will have to clean up. Ewwww.
Speaking of poopy messes. On my way back from the store this morning I noticed that the golf course was watering our road with their big poop-water sprinklers. There was absolutely no way around. I rolled up all the windows in the car and forged ahead through the spray. Now my car stinks! I think I am going to have to pull it back out of the garage and give it a rinse. Pardon me for a moment.... Whoo-eee! Peee-eww!
I took Copper for an evening golf course run yesterday. He was limping pretty badly on Saturday, so I didn't exercise him. He seemed better yesterday, but I am still nervous about running him on the road.
I've watched a few movies on Netflix this last week or two while trying to get chores done. I am a little embarrassed by how cheesy they may seem, but they were perfect for me. Light chick-flicks (including some ABC family originals) that are not objectionable and don't require much concentration. Here are some of the titles: "Revenge of the Bridesmaids," "My Fake Fiance," "Love's Kitchen," and get this one (I smile and cringe as I type it.) . . . "Pizza My Heart". I'm thinking of watching "My Future Boyfriend" next. It doesn't matter that I can't hear you laughing me at me--I'm laughing at myself!
I just got off the phone with your mom to discuss our weekly schedule. This is a necessary phone call each week. We will continue to have more scheduling phone calls as the week progresses to coordinate baseball games and practices, as well as other kid-watching needs. I'm looking forward to summer.
My sink spilleth over. This weekend of holiday activities has done a number on my kitchen. I've been so worn out the last two evenings that I haven't been able to catch up. It hasn't been this bad in a while. Today's job: dishes and laundry. If I could only finish those two things I would be a happy homemaker.
I never got to ask you how you enjoyed the Easter messages (and my drawing of Copper) we sent you in the mail drop. I still laugh that some of my messages made it into the hands of fellow hikers: "[heart] I love you, Brett! [heart]," "Hugs and Kisses from your Hun: [heart] X O X [heart] X O X [heart]," "You're one in a million! I'm proud of you for living your dreams." and "Keep it up! Our thoughts and prayers are directed to you." I'm glad that I didn't say anything too embarrassing. I don't mind that they know that you are loved and supported from home. You do indeed have our support and love (especially mine).
Friday, April 6, 2012
For Brett, From Home (4/6/12)
I'm missed being able to talk to you much this week. I know you haven't had good cell phone coverage. I hope that I am available when you get into Damascus. This will be a busy weekend, but I'd love to catch up.
I still haven't been able to see how many wrens are in the nest. I keep trying to peek in every now and then, but all I see is a dark mass of down and feathers. I do know there is one less wren baby than Mommy Wren hoped for. I saw that an unhatched egg was kicked out of the nest last night. Tiny egg. With this being Easter and seeing all of the candy around, the wren egg is so small it looks more like candy than the real thing to me. I have a feeling that there are not as many wren babies as we have seen in the past. They just seem quieter this year, and mom and dad don't seem as busy feeding. Maybe that's a good thing when it comes to the clean-up. Ryan came home from school earlier this week having a bad day. Near tears he told me how he had accidentally poked himself in the eye with his pencil at school, everybody (i.e. Todd) was ignoring him, and to top it all off he stepped in bird poop in the garage! Poor kid! (You think someone is tired?) I have noticed that the wren parents have been cleaning nest more frequently and I do try to clean up when I notice it. But you definitely need to watch where you step.
Copper has now run off three times since we got home from Spring Break. I already told you that he didn't come the second time until after midnight. After falling asleep with no Copper at home, I woke up, checked and happily found him outside and let him in--at 2:30 in the morning. Then, on Tuesday this week he ran off in the afternoon when he was outside alone for less than a minute. Ryan brought me his old "Lost Dog" poster and told me the bad news. Luckily, we drove around and found him quickly (on Lakeway). He was wet, and even though I had bathed him just the day before (!!!) he got another bath. I have told the boys that we simply can not trust him outside at all. I really am trying to give him exercise, but I think he misses you and the extra attention you give him.
I felt terrible this morning when I took Copper for a walk. He looked like he was limping a little, but I checked his paws and didn't see anything suspicious. We continued our walk, and he didn't seem like he was really limping anymore. But, I kept our walk a little shorter and didn't push him. When we got home I noticed blood on the kitchen floor. The poor boy had scraped his pad. It wasn't bleeding when I checked his paw at the beginning of the walk, but there was no missing it by the time we got back home. I'm so sorry, Copper!
Todd finished his 8th card in Mile Club yesterday (40 miles this year), and as far as I know he's still in the lead. I think it's funny that Todd is such a good runner and obviously doesn't mind running like his parents do.
I'm trying to update your A.T. blog, but I have so many pictures from you now that it's kind of hard to go back and add them all. I'm also not sure how to handle transcribing your journal. I think I may just keep up with my trail updates and simply transcribe your journal into a Word document.
My family is starting to plan and get excited about James' wedding in June. I'm looking forward to seeing everyone. James expressed it perfectly in his e-mail to all of us: "So a few people have expressed interest in doing some family stuff before the actual wedding, and I think that would be great. I'm not exactly sure what and/or when, but even hanging out, playing games and eating ham sandwiches sounds like fun when Mitchell siblings are involved" (emphasis added).
I'm interested to hear how your feet are faring. I really hope you're getting used to the new shoes and that your blisters from the old shoes are healing. Please take care of yourself.
Love, Becca
I still haven't been able to see how many wrens are in the nest. I keep trying to peek in every now and then, but all I see is a dark mass of down and feathers. I do know there is one less wren baby than Mommy Wren hoped for. I saw that an unhatched egg was kicked out of the nest last night. Tiny egg. With this being Easter and seeing all of the candy around, the wren egg is so small it looks more like candy than the real thing to me. I have a feeling that there are not as many wren babies as we have seen in the past. They just seem quieter this year, and mom and dad don't seem as busy feeding. Maybe that's a good thing when it comes to the clean-up. Ryan came home from school earlier this week having a bad day. Near tears he told me how he had accidentally poked himself in the eye with his pencil at school, everybody (i.e. Todd) was ignoring him, and to top it all off he stepped in bird poop in the garage! Poor kid! (You think someone is tired?) I have noticed that the wren parents have been cleaning nest more frequently and I do try to clean up when I notice it. But you definitely need to watch where you step.
Copper has now run off three times since we got home from Spring Break. I already told you that he didn't come the second time until after midnight. After falling asleep with no Copper at home, I woke up, checked and happily found him outside and let him in--at 2:30 in the morning. Then, on Tuesday this week he ran off in the afternoon when he was outside alone for less than a minute. Ryan brought me his old "Lost Dog" poster and told me the bad news. Luckily, we drove around and found him quickly (on Lakeway). He was wet, and even though I had bathed him just the day before (!!!) he got another bath. I have told the boys that we simply can not trust him outside at all. I really am trying to give him exercise, but I think he misses you and the extra attention you give him.
I felt terrible this morning when I took Copper for a walk. He looked like he was limping a little, but I checked his paws and didn't see anything suspicious. We continued our walk, and he didn't seem like he was really limping anymore. But, I kept our walk a little shorter and didn't push him. When we got home I noticed blood on the kitchen floor. The poor boy had scraped his pad. It wasn't bleeding when I checked his paw at the beginning of the walk, but there was no missing it by the time we got back home. I'm so sorry, Copper!
Todd finished his 8th card in Mile Club yesterday (40 miles this year), and as far as I know he's still in the lead. I think it's funny that Todd is such a good runner and obviously doesn't mind running like his parents do.
I'm trying to update your A.T. blog, but I have so many pictures from you now that it's kind of hard to go back and add them all. I'm also not sure how to handle transcribing your journal. I think I may just keep up with my trail updates and simply transcribe your journal into a Word document.
My family is starting to plan and get excited about James' wedding in June. I'm looking forward to seeing everyone. James expressed it perfectly in his e-mail to all of us: "So a few people have expressed interest in doing some family stuff before the actual wedding, and I think that would be great. I'm not exactly sure what and/or when, but even hanging out, playing games and eating ham sandwiches sounds like fun when Mitchell siblings are involved" (emphasis added).
I'm interested to hear how your feet are faring. I really hope you're getting used to the new shoes and that your blisters from the old shoes are healing. Please take care of yourself.
Love, Becca
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Congratulations to the Happy Couple
It's 10:30pm on Wednesday, 3/28/12. I just went into the garage and heard the little "feed me" squeaks from the wren babies for the first time! Brett, I so wish you could be here for this!
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.
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
For Brett, From Home (3/14/12)
It's been so nice talking with you on the phone lately. You sound so upbeat. I hope that you are thoroughly enjoying the trail.
Things are continuing to go pretty well at home, but baseball is killing me. This year seems worse than others, even though I have more help than I could ask for from your parents. I feel kind of bad that I am missing so much of watching the boys play...kind of. The after-school and bedtime schedules have been difficult. I feel like I have been rushing and hounding the boys to do their homework, and rushing and hounding the boys to go to bed. And, even with my rushing they aren't getting to bed before 8:30pm each night. Not late compared to some kids, but late for our kids who wake up early and are used to a good night's rest. Ryan especially is having a hard time of it. It would be nice to have you here to help with the evening schedule. But, hopefully we can figure things out soon. Then we only have two months more of school. And, I have a whole week of Spring Break to rest up: no school, no homework, no baseball!
Spring is here for real. I have been leaving the doors open this week and have enjoyed listening to the birds going crazy in the mornings. The orange blossoms have opened up and are filling the air with their sweet scent.
I noticed the wren sitting in her nest on Monday morning, and each morning since. The nest is so high, I haven't been able to look in yet. I am also trying to respect her space and not make more of a ruckus than necessary.
Copper is doing well. We have been exercising him. A couple of nights I have had to exercise him using the Aerobie and hit a tree every two out of three throws. I am sure that Copper misses your super-throws, but he still gets excited any time he sees me pull out his flying disc. Ryan is making sure that he hugs Copper every day, and Copper doesn't seem to mind. He settles down easily with the boys when they visit your parents. And your parents have taken Copper for a run around the golf course every now and again.
Looking forward to seeing you. I hope you're ready for the invasion of space you are sure to experience.
Things are continuing to go pretty well at home, but baseball is killing me. This year seems worse than others, even though I have more help than I could ask for from your parents. I feel kind of bad that I am missing so much of watching the boys play...kind of. The after-school and bedtime schedules have been difficult. I feel like I have been rushing and hounding the boys to do their homework, and rushing and hounding the boys to go to bed. And, even with my rushing they aren't getting to bed before 8:30pm each night. Not late compared to some kids, but late for our kids who wake up early and are used to a good night's rest. Ryan especially is having a hard time of it. It would be nice to have you here to help with the evening schedule. But, hopefully we can figure things out soon. Then we only have two months more of school. And, I have a whole week of Spring Break to rest up: no school, no homework, no baseball!
Spring is here for real. I have been leaving the doors open this week and have enjoyed listening to the birds going crazy in the mornings. The orange blossoms have opened up and are filling the air with their sweet scent.
I noticed the wren sitting in her nest on Monday morning, and each morning since. The nest is so high, I haven't been able to look in yet. I am also trying to respect her space and not make more of a ruckus than necessary.
Copper is doing well. We have been exercising him. A couple of nights I have had to exercise him using the Aerobie and hit a tree every two out of three throws. I am sure that Copper misses your super-throws, but he still gets excited any time he sees me pull out his flying disc. Ryan is making sure that he hugs Copper every day, and Copper doesn't seem to mind. He settles down easily with the boys when they visit your parents. And your parents have taken Copper for a run around the golf course every now and again.
Looking forward to seeing you. I hope you're ready for the invasion of space you are sure to experience.
Thursday, March 1, 2012
For Brett, From Home (3/1/12)
We booked the cabin. And it is pet-friendly. You'll get to see Copper (and the rest of us) in just about two weeks!
I'm getting a little anxious. I haven't seen the wrens in the garage since the day they got stuck in the house. I hope they didn't get spooked.
I had some jobs around the house and didn't want to get sucked in to the TV, so I turned on NPR using the BlueRay player. I always forget about turning it on. I listened to a couple of Fresh Air programs while I did the dishes and mopped the kitchen floor. It was perfect. (Bonus: Listening to NPR always makes me feel smarter!--Except for CarTalk. That just makes me laugh and laugh.)
I am playing the piano for someone on Sunday, and it is a pretty tough piece of music. I started practicing it today, and I practiced hard. The side tip of my right pinky has key-burn. (I just coined that phrase.) I had been thinking about picking up the guitar again, but now I feel too injured. Wah.
You may not be here, but I got a certain satisfaction using one of your boots to squash a huge spider tonight.
I'm getting a little anxious. I haven't seen the wrens in the garage since the day they got stuck in the house. I hope they didn't get spooked.
I had some jobs around the house and didn't want to get sucked in to the TV, so I turned on NPR using the BlueRay player. I always forget about turning it on. I listened to a couple of Fresh Air programs while I did the dishes and mopped the kitchen floor. It was perfect. (Bonus: Listening to NPR always makes me feel smarter!--Except for CarTalk. That just makes me laugh and laugh.)
I am playing the piano for someone on Sunday, and it is a pretty tough piece of music. I started practicing it today, and I practiced hard. The side tip of my right pinky has key-burn. (I just coined that phrase.) I had been thinking about picking up the guitar again, but now I feel too injured. Wah.
You may not be here, but I got a certain satisfaction using one of your boots to squash a huge spider tonight.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
For Brett, From Home (2/29/12)
Another little gem from Ryan yesterday morning:
Ryan: Mom, what if you had a baby while Dad was on the trail? And Dad couldn't come to see.
Mom: Whoa. That wouldn't be good. But, it takes babies nine months to grow.
Ryan: Really??
Mom: Yeah. And I [sucking in my stomach] don't have a baby in my tummy right now. So at least we don't have to worry about that.
The wren nest in the garage looks great, and I still see the birds in the garage some mornings. I haven't seen mama bird sitting in the nest yet, but I still think that they will take up residence. I felt bad for the birds yesterday. We were in a rush to get to the bus stop. I went through the garage to put my rollerblades on, shut the garage door behind me, and skated off with Copper. When I got back from our run I saw that the front door was open. Apparently a little boy did not shut the door completely and the wind blew it open the rest of the way. I came inside to find both of the wrens flitting about. Copper and I took them by surprise and they got a little nervous. I opened the back door and a short time later they escaped, one from the front and one from the back. I did have a clean up a few little droppings on the dining room floor....
Kristie and I are narrowing down the cabin for Spring Break. It's hard to believe how close it is getting. After hearing how disappointed you were about not seeing Copper, I asked Kristie if we could go back and look for a pet-friendly location. I hope that it works out and that I can give you that surprise.
Ryan: Mom, what if you had a baby while Dad was on the trail? And Dad couldn't come to see.
Mom: Whoa. That wouldn't be good. But, it takes babies nine months to grow.
Ryan: Really??
Mom: Yeah. And I [sucking in my stomach] don't have a baby in my tummy right now. So at least we don't have to worry about that.
The wren nest in the garage looks great, and I still see the birds in the garage some mornings. I haven't seen mama bird sitting in the nest yet, but I still think that they will take up residence. I felt bad for the birds yesterday. We were in a rush to get to the bus stop. I went through the garage to put my rollerblades on, shut the garage door behind me, and skated off with Copper. When I got back from our run I saw that the front door was open. Apparently a little boy did not shut the door completely and the wind blew it open the rest of the way. I came inside to find both of the wrens flitting about. Copper and I took them by surprise and they got a little nervous. I opened the back door and a short time later they escaped, one from the front and one from the back. I did have a clean up a few little droppings on the dining room floor....
Kristie and I are narrowing down the cabin for Spring Break. It's hard to believe how close it is getting. After hearing how disappointed you were about not seeing Copper, I asked Kristie if we could go back and look for a pet-friendly location. I hope that it works out and that I can give you that surprise.
Friday, February 24, 2012
For Brett, From Home (2/22/12)
To ease your mind a little, I think Copper is doing well. He doesn't seem to be mopey. He is eating well. He didn't each much on Monday, but seems to have a normal appetite again. He does seem a little anxious anytime I go to leave the house. He always wants to tag along and gets very excited for his daily walk. I invite him up on the bed, and he stays there at least long enough for me to fall asleep (which, gratefully, is not that long).
Yesterday the wrens added a little more nesting material to the corner of the Coke bottle shelf. Today, when I came home from working at the library the nest appeared almost complete! I hope to share more news on that front as the next few weeks progress.
Your parents have already been a huge help. Just their promise of help has been a huge help. I have already booked them for Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday this week!
No surprise, my bedtime hasn't altered from Midnight any day this week. I was hoping tonight would be different, but it's not looking very promising....
I had a hard time getting motivated yesterday. I couldn't figure out what to do with myself and ended up wasting almost the entire day in front of the TV (presumably doing laundry). At the end of the night I made a promise to myself that I would not turn on the TV today. I have kept that promise and have been happier for it. I knew this would be a challenge for me--managing my time well, limiting distractions, and getting sleep.
This afternoon Outlook didn't want to work right for me, so I decided to reboot the computer and give it a another chance. When the computer tried to restart, it wouldn't open up to my welcome screen. I let it sit for a minute, turned off the power for a mintute and tried again. I repeated this process about two more times, getting more nervous each time. Why wouldn't my computer start? And where was my Brett to solve my problem?!? Then I took a breath, and thought. (Did you catch that? I really thought about it.) I haven't been having any problems with the computer. Why, when all seemed to be going smoothly, would it decide to freeze? What was different? That's when I noticed that my iPod was still plugged in, charging. Could that be it? I turned off the iPod, unplugged it from the computer, and restarted my computer--successfully! Problem solved!! By myself!!!
I need to start compiling a list of all the questions I have for you. I keep added questions to my mental list as I go about my day. I look forward to hearing the details of the hike and really getting a feel for what it's like.
We miss you and love you. I'm looking forward to talking with you again.
Yesterday the wrens added a little more nesting material to the corner of the Coke bottle shelf. Today, when I came home from working at the library the nest appeared almost complete! I hope to share more news on that front as the next few weeks progress.
Your parents have already been a huge help. Just their promise of help has been a huge help. I have already booked them for Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday this week!
No surprise, my bedtime hasn't altered from Midnight any day this week. I was hoping tonight would be different, but it's not looking very promising....
I had a hard time getting motivated yesterday. I couldn't figure out what to do with myself and ended up wasting almost the entire day in front of the TV (presumably doing laundry). At the end of the night I made a promise to myself that I would not turn on the TV today. I have kept that promise and have been happier for it. I knew this would be a challenge for me--managing my time well, limiting distractions, and getting sleep.
This afternoon Outlook didn't want to work right for me, so I decided to reboot the computer and give it a another chance. When the computer tried to restart, it wouldn't open up to my welcome screen. I let it sit for a minute, turned off the power for a mintute and tried again. I repeated this process about two more times, getting more nervous each time. Why wouldn't my computer start? And where was my Brett to solve my problem?!? Then I took a breath, and thought. (Did you catch that? I really thought about it.) I haven't been having any problems with the computer. Why, when all seemed to be going smoothly, would it decide to freeze? What was different? That's when I noticed that my iPod was still plugged in, charging. Could that be it? I turned off the iPod, unplugged it from the computer, and restarted my computer--successfully! Problem solved!! By myself!!!
I need to start compiling a list of all the questions I have for you. I keep added questions to my mental list as I go about my day. I look forward to hearing the details of the hike and really getting a feel for what it's like.
We miss you and love you. I'm looking forward to talking with you again.
For Brett, From Home (2/20/12)
Even though my calves are killing me--are you sure that I didn't just hike the Grand Canyon rather than a mere 740 steps to the top of Amicola Falls? (I can't imagine how your muscles must feel right now)--I intend to keep good on my promise to take care of Copper. I could tell that he needed the exercise, and I think it was good for my sore legs too. Todd and Ryan have already promised to throw the Aerobie for Copper after school, and I think I will have them take Copper up and down the street a couple of times as well. We all gave him extra petting this morning, and Copper even slept on the bed last night (for a while at least).
"Old Lumpy" came back home with us and is now resting on the couch. I just can't seem to make myself throw away your old pillow yet. Maybe next trash pick-up. Or the next.
I think we made a good decision to close your truck windows before we left. I heard some chattering in the garage, and went out a few minutes later to check on things. I saw that the wrens had gathered some nesting materials into the corner of the shelf above the back door next to the Coke bottles (same place as before).
I ran a little errand this morning. Copper was quicker than usual to jump at the chance for a ride. After turning onto our street on the way home I found myself looking to see if your truck was in the driveway. I have a feeling I will be doing that for a while.
While at the grocery story I bought the Family Size container of hummus. I will be eating the mess out of hummus while you are gone. That's a perk I had not considered. There won't be anyone around to tell me how much it (and my breath) stinks.
I had a lot on my mind last night, and of course a million things to unpack, tidy up, etc. Most of it I left for today, but I did take care of a few things. All things considered, I'm proud of myself for going to sleep no later than Midnight. I was curled up in bed with one of your pillows, Copper, and my heating pad. It was "freezing" last night. I can't imagine how you must be feeling, exposed in the wet and quite possibly freezing (without the quotation marks) weather.
I am still excited for you and hope that you are starting to feel a little better now, having gotten the emotional good-bye's behind you. I find myself anxious for an update from you. I want to hear all about your experiences on the trail. Call, text, e-mail, or comment soon. I miss you--but not so much that I want you give up your dream or enjoy it less. Enjoy it to the fullest!
Much love,
Becca
Update: First thing to break while you are away: Copper ran hard into the screen door. It's a mangled mess. At least we have another screen on the side bedroom door. I'll just switch the two. I knew there would be things that would come up, but did it have to be on the first full day? That's not encouraging.
"Old Lumpy" came back home with us and is now resting on the couch. I just can't seem to make myself throw away your old pillow yet. Maybe next trash pick-up. Or the next.
I think we made a good decision to close your truck windows before we left. I heard some chattering in the garage, and went out a few minutes later to check on things. I saw that the wrens had gathered some nesting materials into the corner of the shelf above the back door next to the Coke bottles (same place as before).
I ran a little errand this morning. Copper was quicker than usual to jump at the chance for a ride. After turning onto our street on the way home I found myself looking to see if your truck was in the driveway. I have a feeling I will be doing that for a while.
While at the grocery story I bought the Family Size container of hummus. I will be eating the mess out of hummus while you are gone. That's a perk I had not considered. There won't be anyone around to tell me how much it (and my breath) stinks.
I had a lot on my mind last night, and of course a million things to unpack, tidy up, etc. Most of it I left for today, but I did take care of a few things. All things considered, I'm proud of myself for going to sleep no later than Midnight. I was curled up in bed with one of your pillows, Copper, and my heating pad. It was "freezing" last night. I can't imagine how you must be feeling, exposed in the wet and quite possibly freezing (without the quotation marks) weather.
I am still excited for you and hope that you are starting to feel a little better now, having gotten the emotional good-bye's behind you. I find myself anxious for an update from you. I want to hear all about your experiences on the trail. Call, text, e-mail, or comment soon. I miss you--but not so much that I want you give up your dream or enjoy it less. Enjoy it to the fullest!
Much love,
Becca
Update: First thing to break while you are away: Copper ran hard into the screen door. It's a mangled mess. At least we have another screen on the side bedroom door. I'll just switch the two. I knew there would be things that would come up, but did it have to be on the first full day? That's not encouraging.
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