Living in the Moment

What a life!!

2011-09-20T20:51:00.003-04:00

I realized tonight that its been over a year since my last post. Lots of things have happend in that year...
We bought a horse for my daughter. A grey Arab named Dancer. Since I was at the barn everyday/night with her and her horse, I couldn't blog about anything...not even his death. Yes sadly just 10 months later we lost Dancer to Colic. Seeing my child go through his illness and then making the decision to end his suffering, was an experience I do not want to go through again.
So, the search went on for another horse. This June we purchased Chico. And again every night/day was spent at the barn getting to know him, riding him, learning to love him, and healing.
So now a more experience horse mom is back in business. I've started a blog to journal their progress. Its been a long rough year, but I think we are back in the saddle...no pun intended....
www.natalieshorsepower.blogspot.com

Summer life

2010-03-24T21:11:00.005-04:00

I realize that Zumba is now the "in" workout of the decade, but my gosh, its kicking my butt! This is really a good thing, I know. When it makes you sweat in the first 10 minutes you know this is good and I'm hooked!

I'm so looking forward to this summer, I want sunshine. No more spelling words, book reports, math problems or band lessons. I want longer days, and Kilwins ice cream on a warm summer night. I want lazy beach days, and summer festival food. Along with all this is the county fair. Natalie will be showing her horse and it will be long days of pure torture but will be so worth it. Ribbons and pride will be on our minds.

All set to go in our Show Clothes!

Stay Tuned, Starlight and Natalie are Team Pantaleo!

Now with all this ice cream and fair food I will be eating I will have to continue the Zumba workouts I'm sure!

2010-02-20T17:37:00.000-05:00

Dear God,
I'm tired of winter. Could you please send some sunshine? Thank you.

Horsing Around

2009-12-10T23:07:00.004-05:00

Since we are in the middle of this crazy winter storm, Natalie has not been able to ride or go to the horse barn because its too cold! I have to admit it, I miss it too. We are in such a routine with lessons, and 4H that I feel all out of whack and my days are messed up because we haven't been there. I miss my 4 legged, 1200lb friends. I guess I've totally transformed into a Horse mom.

Check out the new blog dedicated to barn life, horse riding, tactical issues. Drama queens, 4H projects and later next year....County Fair!
***Reflections of a Horse Mom****

www.horsereflections.blogspot.com

Winter is here

2009-12-09T22:45:00.002-05:00

Well, its December and the first winter storm is here. Winds are at 50 mph and the waves on Lake Michigan are huge! Its snowing/sleeting/raining. Its plain yucky out. Natalie did the snow day dance and ritual. Which includes: flushing ice cubes down the toilet, wearing pj inside out, and something about a spoon. Anyway, we will see if the ritual works in the morning.

"When I no longer thrill to the first snow of the season, I'll know I'm growing old."
Author: - Claudia "Lady Bird" Johnson

Bucket List

2009-10-20T15:49:00.002-04:00

Last night, I took a horse riding lesson with Natalie. Today, my bum is sore! I guess I can check this off the bucket list as things to do before I leave this earth.
I have to say that I liked the ride however I'm not ready to saddle up again. I was really nervous mounting the horse, and I had some issues steering her. It was a crazy but fun evening. What I did enjoy was grooming the horse. I got more from that, then the whole lesson. Horses are amazing animals and they deserve so much respect from us. Its amazing that they even allow us to mount them and ride them.
On the other hand, Natalie was trying to canter on "Sugar" and she bucked so high. I was so proud of her, because she stayed on and she didn't cry or complain about it. I think we may have taken another baby step....
Speaking of, my baby turns 10 years old in 2 weeks and her birthday present arrived today via UPS. Can't wait to see her face.......I'll post pictures..

October Pumpkin fun show

2009-10-13T19:17:00.003-04:00

Nat placed 2nd, 4th, 5th, and 8th. Way to go Nat! Nat's the one in pink riding the black/white paint horse..

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

It's a School Night!

2009-09-07T21:26:00.004-04:00

It's finally here! School starts tomorrow and I couldn't be happier! It is the most wonderful time of the year. Not that I didn't enjoy our summer time together, but I look forward to the routine again. This labor day weekend, we spent mostly at the beach. The weather was absolutely perfect. High 70's low 80's all weekend long. Whoo hoo. St. Joseph dedicated their water fountain on Saturday morning. It runs every evening from 5 - 10pm thru mid October. Natalie had so much fun running in the fountain and water spouts. What a nice thing to build for the kids. Well, now its to bed early, its a school night and I finally will have some time to myself in the evenings again.....ahhhhhhh

Back to School

2009-08-29T18:49:00.004-04:00

Fair week is over, and I've had a week to recover. The first part of the week, was so hot and sticky, almost unbearable. On Wednesday, Natalie and her friend went to their first concert to see "The Naked Brothers Band." First they rode the rides till it was time for the show. Then Anthony took them back stage to do a meet and greet. Natalie did not want to wash her hands at all!

During the fair, we talked to many people about 4-H and leasing a horse for Natalie etc. I got some vital information and been spending this week of recovery, researching stables and horses for new opportunities for Natalie's horseback riding lessons.
Also this week, we did the dreaded back to school shopping. Michigan schools don't begin until after labor day, so we always have at least 2 weeks after fair to get last minute supplies. I always wait until the last moment to buy shoes. Here's why. I bought Natalie a pair of shoes right before school let out for summer and she wore a size 3. Back to school shoes were size 5. How does one jump 2 sizes in 3 months. She did this last year too. So, hopefully the bigger size will last us at least until winter I hope. No tears this year with shoes. She knew what she wanted and it was a matter of talking me into paying for them! Have to admit they are cute!

Well we are headed into our last week of summer and summer break. 4th grade here we come! I'm praying for no drama already!

My Champion

2009-08-17T19:59:00.003-04:00

I am such a proud Mama right now! My girl got Champion and Grand Champion for her photo in our county fair today. She enter 3 items; dish garden, drawing and 8 x 10 color photo. She received "A's" for the dish garden and drawing but got the highest award for her photograph. She is just thrilled and beside herself. It's been a long day and I'm ready for bed, because we have another long day at the fair tomorrow. Way to go, Nat!

Here is the pic....

Blowing off some steam

2009-08-12T15:35:00.003-04:00

“I will deal with them according to their conduct, and by their own standards I will judge them”

I've had a horrible last few days. I'm struggling with what I want to do and what I should do.
My adventure at Michigan Adventure yesterday was both eye opening and exhausting. This was my third outing with mother's of my daughter's "circle of friends." And just like the other 2 outings, these Christian women were extremely rude. If I compared Natalie's "public school" moms vs. her "private school" moms. I would have to say despite the fact that the public school moms were snobby, at least they faked being nice. These "Christian" women don't even care they are rude.

On the way to the beach this afternoon, Natalie told me that this "mom" wouldn't let her use the restroom because it would take time away from her agenda. I think I almost had a stroke. After a relaxing 2 hours at the beach tonight, and watching the gulls fight for food and territory, it occured to me the answer. It's time to step up. I will deal with them when I have to, but I think I will make myself as unavailable to them as I most possibly can be. Books and Mp3 players will be very handy. I'm so pissed.....

Michigan Adventure

2009-08-10T21:38:00.003-04:00

We are off to Michigan Adventure tomorrow. This is the last Brownie trip of the season before school starts up. Michigan Adventure is a water/amusement park all in one. The weather is supposed to be a perfect 83 degrees with no rain in the forecast.

Bathing suit. Check
Towels. Check
Lunch packed. Check
Sunscreen. Check

What else is needed? Oh, maybe some ear plugs from girls screaming......Mp3 will do.
Post pics later....if I survive that is.

Fair Game

2009-08-04T19:29:00.003-04:00

It's getting to be that time again. Yes, school starting is right around the corner, but its not that. Its Fair time again! Natalie is putting 3 items this year in the fair. She drew a picture, a photo collage, and of course the dish garden. We are currently trying to come up with a "theme" for the dish garden. I suggested patriotic, but she wasn't to excited about that.
It seems the summer gets shorter and shorter every year. I can't believe I have a fourth grader. I need to get my butt in gear for some school shopping. We got the supplies bought, but it's time for some shoes, backpack, and some jeans. I've also learned that starting in 4th grade, you begin "band" if you so choose. Natalie has expressed interest in playing the flute. I have a feeling this is going to be an expensive school year.....
Here are some of Natalie's finest art work. Vince Vangogh...?

This one is my favorite

I also learned a good tip for turning art work to digital. You can upload them to snapfish or Kodak, anyplace to make scrapbooks, and you can have their art forever!

A New Chapter

2009-07-30T20:07:00.003-04:00

Natalie had her horse lesson today. We have been talking about going down the lease road for a few months now, and I think we finally have to come to some decision. It cannot be shoved under that table or forgotten any longer. Hmmm.
Natalie has told us quite a few times that her "goal" is to show a horse. Well, you kinda need a horse to do that. So, fast forward to today's lesson. The horse that Natalie rides is a 26 year of mare. She's seen better days and way past her prime. Her coach mentioned today that Natalie is now asking the mare to do things that the mare can no longer do. In English, Nat's outgrown her. So, we were presented with the option of leasing 2 horses. Warrior or Szanghi?
Natalie is attracted to Warrior because he is a paint. He's young and has some "pep in his step." Way opposite of the current riding situation she is used to. Then there is Szanghi. He's an Arabian, slightly older, and very good with kids. Natalie has rode Szanghi before, but has not rode Warrior yet. Test drives begin next week.
It's an exciting opportunity thats coming, however bittersweet. We will surely miss Ghalli with all she has taught us. But its time to begin this chapter of starting a new, lasting relationship with a new horse.
So what's it going to be Warrior or Szanghi? To be continued......

Facebook

2009-07-23T21:13:00.002-04:00

Did you know they have a facebook for kids? I did not know that. Natalie has been begging me for a facebook account (I think just to play the different games) but I feel she's a bit too young. So I google facebook for kids and wha la...there it is. I think its more like a myspace, but we shall see. My social butterfly is spreading her wings again......

Where's Gretchen?

2009-07-21T20:58:00.004-04:00

Wow, it's been almost a month since my last post. It's not that I haven't had news to tell, just haven't really had a moment to think about it. But I'm vowing to have more frequent posts.
The biggest news is probably the fact I lost my job. Or is it my position was eliminated? Still unsure what really happened. I just don't understand the office politics and how people can just blindside you, but I just have to accept that God has chosen this for a reason and it has yet to be reveled.
Grandma P. has celebrated her 80th Birthday on July 3. It was a fun evening! And she was totally shocked (it was a surprise party). Of course, we all got to dress up, something that rarely happens, so I took the opportunity to take some photos of us all gussied up. It will probably be another few years before you see us all together dressed up!

Nat has started back to horse back riding. It seems she has picked up right where she left off this winter. She's riding Ghalli again and seems to have a great bond with her. She's learning to get her to trot by asking and keeping up the trot while weaving in and out of cones (serpentine) It's fun to see her enjoy herself and having the confidence of controlling a 1000 lb animal.
Natalie has also been swimming alot this summer. That's part of the reason why my posts have been more infrequent. Swim team is alot of commitment with practices and meets. I'm relieved that she has these wonderful opportunities available to her.
Now I'm thinking about back to school. Wow, where has the summer gone? Now I'm consumed with thoughts of backpacks and pencils and most of all DRAMA. I hope that the girls have grown and matured a bit. No, I hope ALOT. I'm praying for no drama from Natalie when it comes to shoe shopping. Last year, in attempting to purchase shoes for school, we both ended up in tears and I swore I would never step foot in a store with her again (no pun intended). This year we know what we want and we both agree, so it should be tear free. I hope. What's the new high top sketchers all about anyway?
Hopefully, my next post won't be about our trip to the shoe store, I'm vowing also to take more pictures. Thats something I love to do, but just have let go this summer. I need a good kick in the pants I suppose.
Until next time.....

Relay for Life

2009-06-29T21:27:00.003-04:00

Our area has a "Event" every year at our county fair grounds for Relay for Life. This is when people join "teams" and team members sign up to walk continuously for 24 hours. Usually we are on vacation the weekend that this occurs, but since this year we moved our vacation a week before, I went ahead and signed up Nat & I to walk for a few hours (on and off).
The weather was in the 90's and humid. I think it was 85 by 10 a.m. So Natalie and I began to walk around and a man from the Red Cross was saying "donate blood at the fair office building!" I have never donated blood before and I was thinking this was something I could tick off my list of things to do before I get old and die.
So, I was going to do it while I still had the nerve....
I was doing very well, until Natalie started to describe every detail in the process of it all. OMG, Mom the blood is so dark. Mom, the tube thing is filling up.....
When I was finally done, I sat up and thought, wow that wasn't so bad. Until I got to the snack table. Let's just say I had to lay back down 2 more times before they would release me to go. UGH!
I hope my experience has taught Natalie about how important donating blood can be to save a life and that events like Relay for Life Event can make a difference in finding cures for cancer......

Ford Lake Vacation

2009-06-22T21:12:00.004-04:00

We are back from our week summer vacation from Ford Lake. We go every summer to Fountain, MI and rent a cabin on the lake. This year, Anthony borrowed a bass fishing boat from a buddy and he fished about 90% of the time. I even enjoyed the boat as I layed out in the sunshine while Anthony fished away.
Our lazy days were mostly spent on the lake, as we had unusually nice weather. One day we made a trip "into town." Natalie and I walked on the river front in Manistee Michigan. Its a cute little town, it reminds me very much like St. Joe.

It was a great week, and I'm glad to be home. It's time to start planning for next year!

Class Trip

2009-06-04T20:21:00.007-04:00

For Natalie's class trip this year, we drove 2 hours to Fair Oaks Dairy Farm, in Fair Oaks, IN. Mrs. Williams drove, and I and Mrs. Virsik rode along. The girls were really good on the road and seemed to keep themselves entertained.
Once we arrived, our group was checked in and we watched a 3D/4D movie about dairy farms and what they fed the cows and such. There were special surprises in this film, but I won't say to spoil the surprise. Next, we went on a bus tour to the barns where the cows were kept for milking. This farm has over 30,000 cows. These cows are spread over 10 individual farms that make up the Fair Oaks dairy. The cows stay inside the barns and are milked 3 times everyday.

Here we go round the merry go round

We were told that the cows enjoy riding on the merry go round. I guess it breaks up the day?

Yes, there was quite an odor in the air, Mrs. Virsik thought

After the tour, we had some lunch and they served there own brand of milk. It was the best milk I have EVER tasted. It was very creamy. Would love to buy some more.
After lunch the kids were set free in the play area. They had a trampoline, a train, a wall climber (Nat's favorite). It was a really great day. I was so surprised I had a great time.

Smile for the Camera....Way to go Mr. Steffens class! It's been a great year.

School's Out, An Official 4th Grader

2009-06-04T19:56:00.007-04:00

School is officially done, and my baby is a 4th grader. How time flies, I remember her starting kindergarten.
To celebrate the last day of school, her brownie group decided to celebrate in style. School was dismissed at 11:30, and off to Chuck E. Cheese we went. The closet restaurant is in South Bend, IN, which is about a 40 minute ride. After we all arrived, we made our food order and the girls started to play! Then when all the tokens were gone, they were given their last badges and then it was off to Build a Bear!

Each girl got to choose their own "friend" and do all the "stuffing" that goes along with the process. Then they got to choose either a brownie sash or a brownie vest to go with their friend. It was a really good time, but a long afternoon.

Natalie called her friend, Scruffie. Its a tan/brown dog. Scruffie will be there to hear all her secrets this summer, and get her ready to start the 4th grade. I can't believe it!!! Let the summer begin.....

A sweet lullaby to My Girl

2009-05-09T20:12:00.001-04:00

Slow down, you crazy child
you're so ambitious for a juvenile
But then if you're so smart, tell me
Why are you still so afraid?

Where's the fire, what's the hurry about?
You'd better cool it off before you burn it out
You've got so much to do and
Only so many hours in a day

But you know that when the truth is told..
That you can get what you want or you get old
You're gonna kick off before you even
Get halfway through
When will you realize, Vienna waits for you?

Slow down, you're doing fine
You can't be everything you want to be
Before your time
Although it's so romantic on the borderline tonight
Tonight,...
Too bad but it's the life you lead
you're so ahead of yourself that you forgot what you need
Though you can see when you're wrong, you know
You can't always see when you're right. you're right

You've got your passion, you've got your pride
but don't you know that only fools are satisfied?
Dream on, but don't imagine they'll all come true
When will you realize, Vienna waits for you?

Slow down, you crazy child
and take the phone off the hook and disappear for awhile
it's all right, you can afford to lose a day or two
When will you realize,..Vienna waits for you?
And you know that when the truth is told
that you can get what you want or you can just get old
You're gonna kick off before you even get half through
Why don't you realize,. Vienna waits for you
When will you realize, Vienna waits for you?

--Billy Joel

Nat's weird revelation.....

2009-04-26T18:23:00.003-04:00

Its weird, every part of my body feels like its burning, even though I'm under water.
My lungs are on fire, my shoulders ache, my hearts pouding my legs cry out "NO MORE!"
And you know whats even weirder?
I love every second of it, this is my time.....I Swim!

Go Nat!

Fine Arts Festival

2009-04-26T18:08:00.003-04:00

Natalie wanted to sing in this year's Fine Arts Festival at school. Since this was her first time singing in public, she decided it may be better to sing a "duet" with a friend. So Nat & Sarah have been practicing for 3 weeks and finally the day arrived. Nat was full of nervous butterflies but I think she did great! Once she was done and had the experience under her belt, she felt great about it too.

I can't believe how my little girl is growing up before my eyes! Way to go Nat on a great job of facing your fear and accomplishing your goals. Speaking of goals, Nat is back in the pool swimming her heart out. We switched "teams" and Natalie fought me the whole way. Two weeks later, she told me this is way better and I think her having a male coach has made all the difference in the world. Natalie is definately focusing on her goals and I feel like I've reached a goal getting her to reach for her goals! Crazy.....

Girl Universe

2009-04-05T15:19:00.003-04:00

Well, we both survived the sleep over, although I'm not sure it was a total success either. There was no ambushing, no real wars. But when you've done all you can do to be nice and still keep your cool when all you get is attitude and lip service, I think the sleep over was a successful in Natalie's eyes. She won the war of holding it together no matter how strong the urge was to just haul off and let her have it.
Are they best friends come next Monday? I'd say not. Will the line be more clear and definite regarding their co existing? Definately. I think the true colors were shown.....
The best lesson learned was that life has all kinds of people, and no matter what you do, and how nice you are, sometimes you just learn to co-exist and leave them alone. It's a hard lesson to learn and accept, but once you get it, you never forget it.

Summer's Coming

2009-04-02T21:08:00.001-04:00

First sunset of 2009.........

Nervous Wreck

2009-04-02T20:33:00.002-04:00

Natalie is spending the night tonight at a "friends" house for her birthday party. Normally, I'm a pretty relaxed parent when it comes to this. Natalie will stay anywhere, with anyone as long as a good time is involved. But in this case it is different.....
Natalie met this girl when she started her new school in January and lets just say, they didn't hit it off. Until this week, they pretty much avoided each other, and if they did speak to each other, it wasn't pleasant. After hearing day after day, the drama between them, I decided to bring it to their teachers attention. Natalie informed me that her and the girl had a sit down talk and "its all good now, we have an understanding." Wow, was I relieved, maybe we can put this is all behind us! Then, out of the blue, yesterday an invite to her birthday party and its an over night.
My motherly instinct kicked in immediately. I've been in this situation before. The human in me is saying that this could be a really good opportunity to change their relationship. But the GIRL in me is screaming, is this an opportunity for an ambush? We are talking 9 year old girls here. I want to give the benefit of the doubt here, these girls go to a private school, where Christian values are taught and enforced. However, I know how girls can be, I am one.

In the car on the way to her house, Nat & I developed a plan. I think it made me feel better knowing I supplied her with an out, in case my "girl" instincts were spot on. I went through the normal lecture about using your manners, help clean up etc. Then I said, I know you know right from wrong and if there is something wrong I packed your cell phone in your bag so call me and I will come get you. Comprende?

Tonight, I pray for peace in the "girl" universe.........

Traverse City

2009-03-14T11:02:00.004-04:00

Well, we're here in the big City. It was a rough start to this adventure I'm sorry to say. We left Wednesday afternoon around 4 and we were moving to get up here. About 10 miles from the hotel the car starts sputtering and the engine light is flashing. OMG, we are 4 hours from home and I'm going to have to have my car fixed. Needless to say, I couldn't eat or sleep because I was worried about the stupid car! So bright and early Thursday morning I ask the front desk where the nearest Autozone is so they could read the engine code from my car. After I get the directions, Natalie and I begin our journey to Autozone. Hmmm, car seems to be running fine, no engine light is flashing. ??? The nice kid comes to our rescue with the thing ma gig to read the code. "No Codes Failed" The car passed all tests. Well what the heck? Water in the line? Who knows, I guess I just needed to have something to worry about. Next, Nat and I get to the hotel, its time for business. Swim time. We change and I'm packing a bag to take with me to the pool area book, phone, earphones, and yes a soda. Well the soda I put in the bag (along with my new blackbery phone) Natalie opened and didn't close the lid all the way. I noticed it as I was walking with a stream of pop dripping down. At this point I was crying. We got back into the car, drove across the street to Kmart I bought some rubbing alcohol and cotton swabs. An hour with the hair dryer and it was good as new! Now, I finally get to relax....... We went for dinner last night at a place called Slenders. Its known to be one of the oldest bars in Northern Michigan. It think it started in 1875? Anyway, I think I had the best burger in my whole life there. And you have to smooch the moose! They have a bunch of "stuffed" animals along the walls, like deer, squirls, buffalo and a moose named Randolph. Well you have to smooch Randolph and you get a special surprise. Natalie was quite shy when it came to smoochin, but she finally did it!

As for now, I'm back at the pool, relaxing and enjoying the day! I'll post some pics in my next post, stay tuned for more Adventures from Traverse City!

Traverse City here we come!

2009-03-09T20:20:00.003-04:00

Our annual trip to Traverse City is in 2 days! We are so ready to have this needed break. Natalie and I will be hot tubbin, and swimming and most of all relaxing. Anthony will be working. Poor guy, all in a days work I soppose. I'm sure he will be having his own fun in all the conferences he will be attending. He needs to learn more I suppose. It's going to be rough, but we will suffer through.
It's a four hour drive, and I'm wondering what to do keep Natalie busy. Let's see, we have her mp3, Ninetendo DS, portable dvd player, and book 1 to Harry Potter she just now started to read. That should cover it, I hope. I will of course bring some snacks along the way, probably some crackers and naturally, red licorice. I think we're ready!

Now on a different, more complicated note, I feel that I should clear this up for some of my readers, there is always the question of how this is all possible. and far be it to ASK. Well let me explain, even though I shouldn't have to. These conferences are a REQUIREMENT for his job. I hope that you are smart enough to realize what that means and it will clear up any questions that arise. Yes, I'm still being a bitch about this and it is still my prerogative. See post below.....
I am growing up, and with a little therapy I grew a spine. I think its really a sad thing when you have to explain every move you make to the people who are supposed to love you unconditionally. Sometimes life is just jacked up I suppose. Now, I must just "Let It Go"

See you all in Traverse City, will post some pictures of our mini-vacation/work.

Bobby Brown - My Prerogative (live)

2009-03-05T21:35:00.001-05:00

Here's to go along with my lastest post. Its a blast from the past!

My Prerogative

2009-03-05T21:03:00.003-05:00

***Warning*** This is a highly serious, mostly bitchy post...
With some recent events, I feel my life is like the song, my prerogative. I just don't understand why some people in your life (or not in your life) feel like they have to know your business and then JUDGE you for it. When the truth is, they have no clue whats going on, because they haven't bothered to ask you. They just come to their own conclusions about whatever it is that they feel so self-righteous about. Why can't you just let me live my life? I don't need your permission. I don't need your opinions either. I don't need you to judge me or my family. You are sitting high on your horse today, enjoy it. Have you ever heard about Karma? You get what you give.....
AMEN

Downey Fresh

2009-03-03T21:22:00.003-05:00

Ok, I've had my new washer/dryer for almost a week now, and I'm amazed how fast my laundry gets done. I'm all caught up, and keeping it that way. I'm even looking for stuff to wash. I"m sure the newness will soon wear off, but for now I love love love them. Did you know you can delay the wash up to 12 hours? I can set it before I go to work, and it will be done washing just before I get home and can easily go right into the dryer. That's amazing. This is my first "brand new" washer/dryer set, and I'm just loving every minute of it. Natalie even said "it smells like dryer in here."
It's Downey Fresh........

A lovely duet

2009-02-24T20:17:00.002-05:00

I'm so excited! I'm getting a new washer/dryer. About a month ago, my hand-me-down, Maytag 35 year old, never a service call washer, finally died. It never gave any notice it was going out (not that I was aware of). So I've been going to the laundry mat about 2 times a week costing around $30-$40 per week to wash/dry our clothes. Not sure how larger families that use laundry mats afford it.
Last weekend we were in Best Buy and looking at washers. Coincidentally, the Whirlpool Duet were on sale. We had no intention of buying a set, since my dryer is only around 3 years old, but I've never had a brand new "set." Needless to say, my hubs broke and said "lets just do it." I'm going to have a washer with so many different cycles and buttons, I'm not sure I'm going to know what to do with. I can't wait to learn!!! No more laundry mat.

I'm hoping that my next post will be about my first wash in my new machine. You know you've been married awhile when you get excited about washing machines. Who would've thought.....

Downward Dog anyone?

2009-02-17T19:56:00.002-05:00

Yogamama is back! Now that swim team is over, I actually have time to go back to yoga! It took about 3 minutes to realize that I'm out of shape again. Downward dogs weren't so downward today. Plank, let's not even go there. It's going to take some work to get back to where I was, but I'm totally up to it.

I have decided that Rhinna's disturbia song that we have to play over and over in the car (thanks Nat) has a very familiar reality to it. I think she's talking about me! Its been nothing but cold and nasty outside, and I have no windows to look out while I'm at work. I really think its time for a vacation, and I probably will have to do Yoga while I'm there.
Does Disturbia have ice cream?

My Fireman Hero

2009-02-08T20:39:00.002-05:00

I have to brag on my man for a minute. Last night we had our annual "Fireman's Appreciation Dinner." It's the same thing every year, all the fireman and the wives, along with the retired fireman and their wives have dinner, get a little drunk and have a party. Well its starts out we have dinner first, then an awards ceremony and then the party really starts.
My hubs had the honor of putting this years event together with the planning of the dinner all the way through. Dinner was fine, and then we watched a little picture show presentation (put together by my hubs) and then the awards ceremony began. The Chief usually gives out years of service awards, who retired this year yada yada. Well, then he began to say that each year he would like to acknowledge a fireman of the year, or give credit for some outstanding leadership etc.
When the Chief began his story about who he wanted to acknowledge this year, I instantly knew who he was speaking of. In September 2004, my hubs was wearing his "Paramedic Hat" and was on the clock when his fire pager went off. The details were that in our local trailer park, there was a trailer on fire, fully involved and unknown if anyone was in it. He was just 2 miles away, so they headed that way. When he arrived, the fire trucks were not there yet, it was just him, his partner, and the police. In talking with people around, it was unknown if the female occupant was in the trailer or not. This female had recently been injured with broken legs and was just barely able to get around. My hubs walked over to the door, opened the door and saw her feet. He pulled her out, and started CPR immediately on her. She is alive today, and her children still have their mother because of the quick actions of my hubs.
Anthony was never publicly acknowledge for his heroic efforts that day, because the press release said that the local police officer (who assisted carrying her out) actually "saved her." Because of his job, Anthony saves lives all the time, so what does it matter if another guy takes the credit? It matters alot in my book. Anthony finally got what was due to him, and received the recognition of saving her life. We have a plaque now to show his "heroic actions." Way to go Ant!

American Idol

2009-01-29T20:03:00.003-05:00

It's back! American Idol is back and hysterical as ever. The auditions are crazy. I can't believe people believe they really sound that well. And why is it they act so crazy? I like to watch the audition part of it, because it gives me a chance to crack up after a long day.
This is my 150th post, since I started my blog almost a year ago. When I started this blog, I honestly thought I would start it and never finish it. Its been good for me to continue this because I feel like it gives Natalie some history about her childhood, now tween (oh lord help me)
I just learned the Natalie's new Brownie troop wants to spend their profit from their cookies sales on a trip to Chicago for American Girl store. Now I realize that this is a once in a lifetime experience for Natalie, however, I have been putting off buying her the doll for as loooooong as possible. Well I think that day has finally come. I wonder if Grandma would go halfsie?
The next trip they want to go on is a trip to Traverse City, Great Wolf Lodge. OMG, how much fun would that be. I'm so looking forward to that, as I always wanted to go, and now I finally get to! Yeah, Spring can't come soon enough.

Is it Spring yet?

2009-01-28T18:50:00.002-05:00

It's snowing again. I haven't seen the sun in over a week. I think I might be going slightly crazy. I'm losing my mind I think. No, I'm just constantly losing my keys and my cell phone.
Last week, my hubs asked me to mail an important letter (had to be done immediately) so I gathered my coat, hat, purse, but where are my keys? I looked and looked, the time was getting later and later, so I finally took his key to my vehicle and ran the errand. During my drive to the post office, I'm raking my brain about where my keys were. I was only home maybe 30 minutes, so how could they be lost? So I finish the chore, and go home to find Anthony had literally tore the house apart looking for my keys. Not only were my keys missing, but now I have to clean the house. Anyway, I sat down on my bed, reached into my hoodie sweatshirt pocket, to pull out MY KEYS. True Story....
Few days later, I headed out to the Family Dollar store to pick up a few odds and ends. I get home, settle in and realize I don't have my cell phone. The process starts again. Searching all over the house, back into my car, back in the house, dump out the contents of my purse, even under Natalie's bed? Well, with my brain who knew...Finally disgusted with myself, I went out to my car to grab a CD from the CD clip on my visor and guess what was clipped there to? True Story.
I need a vacation!!!

Cookie?

2009-01-20T19:36:00.002-05:00

Anyone feel like some Thin Mints? How about some PB patties, or PB sandwich. Yes its that time again. The Girl Scouts are out peddling cookies.
Our first stop, Medic 1 Ambulance. Boom..80 boxes. The Mini is off to a great start. Her goal this year is to sell enough boxes to get the backpack with the towel. She is well on her way. Next stop, Fire Station. Boom..20 boxes. People must really love GS Cookies! This is almost to easy.

The Mini is a bit disappointed tonight, because we missed the deadline to sign up for a large swim meet this Saturday. I have my own personal disappointments with this, but I feel like its a great learning experience for Natalie and seeing how deadlines can be crucial in the everyday process of life. So, we will just keep training for conferences coming in February.

If you have a lane, you have a chance. ~Author Unknown

Feeling a little nerdy?

2009-01-14T19:16:00.004-05:00

Just in case you are, here is some entertainment... Press pause on my music below

Snow much fun

2009-01-14T19:01:00.004-05:00

We are having the winter storm of our lives right now! Not really, I thinking there has been worse, but it sure feels like it. The freezing temps, the blowing wind, I'm tired of it already. Why do we live in Michigan? I know what you are thinking, I shouldn't complain, we have the beautiful lake just 2 miles away all summer long.
In saying that, I'm going to put on some fuzzy socks, my thermal PJ's and flip the TV on to watch LOST tonight. I've been waiting months for the show to come back! So I need to get my dish of ice cream (don't say it) and get under my snuggie wuggie, and vegggg out.....
Natalie is in heaven by the way, with all this snow....Why is it that kids love the snow? I remember staying outside for hours, I can't stand it 5 minutes...
just saying..

Natalie's New School

2009-01-07T17:50:00.003-05:00

Well Natalie has had 3 days in her new school and she is loving it. She's like a new girl, or my old girl whichever way you'd like to see it. She comes home HAPPY now. To listen to her giggle while she tells me about her day is like music to my ears, and sunshine in my heart. I hope this newness last all year long.

One thing different about this school, is that Natalie now has "religion" class. I asked her how that was going and she's like, well I really didn't pay attention. I firmly told her, and stressed to her how important this is. Her reply was that it was just a story of a man who had 2 wives and they were fighting all the time. How can you stay serious when she comes back with that?

Well I met some of the moms in Natalie's class, and they have been wonderful. They are very helpful and quite friendly. I feel like I could really develop some friendships with these other Moms. I feel so encouraged right now, and I feel blessed that this door has opened for Natalie and I.

Natalie gets to go sledding for recess, so its snowing today, time to get out the sled!

Break time is over

2009-01-04T14:22:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year! Winter break went fast as it always does,same as the holidays. Tomorrow is back to work, and back to school. Natalie has a big day tomorrow, not only is she going back to school, she is starting a new school! The Mini and I have been busy scrabling to get her "ready" to go for Monday. We hit the clearance sales at JCP (as Santa didn't bring the usual clothes this year). She got quite a few things for under $50. This is perfect for after christmas budget. We also bought some new pencils (with the special grips), pencil sharpener, notebook paper, a new bible, a new folder to keep all the papers in, and of course some chapstick to keep in the new desk. The Mini should be set!

I, on the other hand, am less than excited to go back to work. I've got quite used to these 4 day weekends, and would pretty much like that forever. It's too hard Monday morning to get back into the swing of things....

Tomorrow will be an Adventure....Mini will be fine. I will just keep repeating that! More to report tomorrow....

Holiday experience

2008-12-28T15:40:00.004-05:00

Well, the mini and I went to see Bedtime Stories on Christmas Day, and we give it 2 thumbs up. Very cute, and worth the wait. I like Adam Sandler, he did a good job!

Santa brought Natalie an Ipod for Christmas this year and we had to immediately load music on it as soon as the package was opened. Miley Cyrus, Corbin bleu, some 80's, the Barbie song, and of course, The Jonas Brothers. She also got Guitar Hero for Playstation 2, which she has already gone to 3 levels in 2 days.

I'm glad Christmas is over, and I'm so ready to take down the tree. That's on the agenda this week, since Daddy is home this week sitting with the mini, that's a good project for them to do. All our snow is gone now, so they can't do the normal stuff like sledding etc. Worked out for me!

Tootsies 2

2008-12-27T19:41:00.003-05:00

I got some socks for christmas........Nat and I got the same ones, and despite my hesitation, I actually didn't mind them after a while

Merry Christmas

2008-12-24T20:50:00.003-05:00

And the Grinch, with his Grinch-feet ice cold in the snow, stood puzzling and puzzling, how could it be so? It came without ribbons. It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags. And he puzzled and puzzled ’till his puzzler was sore. Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before. What if Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store. What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more.
- Dr. Seuss

Twas the night

2008-12-24T20:35:00.001-05:00

Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,in hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there.
The children were nestled all snug in their beds,while visions of sugar plums danced in their heads.And Mama in her 'kerchief, and I in my cap,had just settled our brains for a long winter's nap.
When out on the roof there arose such a clatter,I sprang from my bed to see what was the matter.Away to the window I flew like a flash,tore open the shutter, and threw up the sash.
The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snowgave the lustre of midday to objects below,when, what to my wondering eyes should appear,but a miniature sleigh and eight tiny reindeer.
With a little old driver, so lively and quick,I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick.More rapid than eagles, his coursers they came,and he whistled and shouted and called them by name:
"Now Dasher! Now Dancer!Now, Prancer and Vixen!On, Comet! On, Cupid!On, Donner and Blitzen!To the top of the porch!To the top of the wall!Now dash away! Dash away!Dash away all!"
As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly,when they meet with an obstacle, mount to the skyso up to the house-top the coursers they flew,with the sleigh full of toys, and St. Nicholas too.
And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roofthe prancing and pawing of each little hoof.As I drew in my head and was turning around,down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound.
He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot,and his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot.A bundle of toys he had flung on his back,and he looked like a peddler just opening his pack.
His eyes--how they twinkled! His dimples, how merry!His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,and the beard on his chin was as white as the snow.The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth,and the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath.He had a broad face and a little round belly,that shook when he laughed, like a bowl full of jelly.
He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf,and I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself.A wink of his eye and a twist of his headsoon gave me to know I had nothing to dread.
He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,and filled all the stockings, then turned with a jerk.And laying his finger aside of his nose,and giving a nod, up the chimney he rose.
He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle,And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.But I heard him exclaim, 'ere he drove out of sight,
"Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!"

Movie anyone?

2008-12-23T19:04:00.002-05:00

Since the hubby is now laid up for Christmas, I think the mini and I will be going to the movies on Christmas. But which one should we see???

Madagascar 2
Yes Man
Tales of the Desparate (lol)
Bedtime Stories
Marley & Me

All have really good potential, but which one would be the best one to see on Christmas Day. Hmmm. When I wake up Christmas morning, I shall decide........

Happy Holidays

2008-12-23T19:00:00.000-05:00

Make a Smilebox postcard

Tribute to Stewart

2008-12-21T21:21:00.000-05:00

Press pause on music below

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Let it go

2008-12-21T10:32:00.002-05:00

WARNING: This blog entry is going to be some major venting!

If you read my blog regularly, you will know that Natalie's last day at Stewart Elementary was Friday. This was a difficult decision for us, moving her in the middle of the year, and starting her in a private, religious school.

On Friday, (her last day) everything went fine, Natalie was a bit emotional to be expected. Each of her classmates wrote her a "goodbye" letter. After reading them all, I began to have doubts about this, is this the right move, right now. All of the letters had very kind words to say to Natalie. Until last night.....

Natalie was invited to a Christmas party at our local YMCA. They got to swim, eat pizza, and exchange a little Christmas spirit. While our kids were having fun, I was there with other moms that wanted to stay behind. The hostess mom said to me, I heard Natalie's last day was Friday. I said yes, it's time for a change, lots of issues etc. The next thing she said to me, sealed the deal. She said "I heard there were issues with her at the beginning of the year, but I thought it was getting better now." She heard of issues.. I've met this mom twice, and just in the last 2 weeks. HERE COMES THE VENT

Obviously, if this mom has heard of issues, someones been talking. We are normally very private people, especially when it comes to Natalie. I normally only post the very best things about Natalie and our life on my blog. So how would this mom know about the issues? I realize that moms talk to other moms, but isn't the one thing that we mothers impose on our daughters is how hurtful gossiping can be? How gossiping can really destroy people's lives, if it is done in the worst possible ways. So with mother's gossiping about other kids, how does the kid ever stand a chance? Natalie has had issues with these girls at school, but I'm starting to have my doubts about the moral characters of their mothers. Are they encouraging the behavior by setting such an example? This is why my daughter has self esteem issues!

I hope that the parents of Natalie's new school, being that it is Christan based, are mature enough not to gossip about other children, and accept Natalie for the beautiful girl she is. I have to let this go now........

Whats on my mind

2008-12-16T20:18:00.002-05:00

laundry piles
Christmas parties
decorating
Christmas shopping
laundry piles
Christmas shopping
baking
cleaning the house
winter break
swim meets
swim practices
laundry piles
UGH

It's Official

2008-12-12T14:25:00.002-05:00

Natalie and I went to visit the Lutheran School where we met the Principal and Teachers. We took a tour of the school and Natalie got to sit in the classroom and see what the difference is with a "private" school. She loved it! She even participated in the class discussion as if she were already a part of the class. I felt so relieved that this happened. There are 8 boys and 7 girls, Natalie will make 8. Natalie has 6 more days of school, and then a new start.

2009 will be the best year yet for Natalie. I wish for you, Natalie a fresh new beginning, with friends that care, and finally some peace in your heart. That would be the best Christmas gift for me!!

Winds of Change

2008-12-08T21:52:00.003-05:00

Its been no secret that Natalie has been struggling with school issues. She is far more advanced than her peers, and this is causing conflicts with other girls. It began last year, and is now starting to erupt again now. The option of private schooling is now heavy on my mind.
I know that no matter where she goes to school, there are always girl issues. However, I believe putting her in private setting, where she can be EQUAL with her peers on the intelligence level, and knowing that this environment is less tolerable of the drama, is indeed the best place for her.
I dread pulling her out in the middle of school year, but I have no other choice. I hope this winter break, I can find inner peace for the struggles I have been dealing with in this hopeless decision. I will put my trust in Jesus, for I know he loves Natalie just as much as I do.
Natalie and I will be meeting her new Teacher, classroom and classmates on Thursday. I hope this will bring some peace to her as well. Here we go, turn the page.......

Elf Yourself

2008-12-07T18:17:00.002-05:00

It's fun, check ours out at the bottom of my blog. I seen this done last year, but it was already to late to do it. After you upload your pictures, you can choose the dance. Also you have to choice to email it, download and embed it. Happy Holidays!

Girls, Girls, Girls

2008-12-04T19:04:00.002-05:00

No I'm not talking about the Motley Crue song. Who'd ever thought that there is drama in 3rd grade. Apparently I missed that chapter in the user manual for raising girls. I'm up to my eyeballs in 3rd grade girl drama and I'd really like to take the next plane to nowhere...alone. Anyone out there have any known cure to man how to rid our house of drama?

Just thought I'd ask......

Without a hitch

2008-11-29T19:02:00.001-05:00

Thanksgiving went off without a hitch except.......
I'm on my way to Grandma's house bringing my warm cheesy spinach/artichoke dip and bottle of wine, and I'm just coming into Berrien Springs. I have the radio up to Christmas music, singing along, sure I'm going slightly over the speed limit, but it wasn't like obscene or anything. Anyway, I happen to look over and I spot a MSP car heading the opposite direction, and I'm like oh snap! I tap my break, and check the rear view mirror. I see the trooper turn around. At this point, I know I'm busted, I had no idea how much over the speed limit I was, but knowing it was inevitable, I just pull over, put it park, reach for my drivers license and wait for him. Sure enough, the light goes on, and he parks behind me and starts to walk up. I'm not nervous yet, because I'm quite comfortable around police/ems/fire agencies(thank you Anthony for getting me out of more tickets than I can count on both hands, love ya xo) as most of them in the area either know me, or know my name, you can say I have "immunity." I roll my window down, and he has a huge smile on his face and says "I have to know what your license plate means" I get this alot from people. I have a specialize plate it is LTFD9WF. Trying to sound that out? It's Lincoln Township Fire Department 9 WF=Wife. I explained to the troop, he grinned in acknowledgement, and then, he asks, do you know why I stopped you? Before I could say a word, he said I just wanted you to know you have a tail light out, and you were going slightly fast. Then the nerves set in. My mind was racing, oh I have more explaining to do to Anthony. He took my license and said he'd be right back.

When you are on the road passing by someone stopped by the police, ever think, oh man, they are getting a biscuit!!!! poor sucker. Well, I saw that in people's faces as they drove by and stared at me. What was I going to tell Anthony, here's another ticket to get me out of?

The trooper came back, handed me my license and said he just had to write down that he stopped me and talked to me about my tail light. Have a good day miss, and drive safe.

Was he being nice? Did he have dinner to go to? Was a tail light ticket not worth wasting ink for? I don't know, nor do I care. But I am thankful we have our boys in blue out there, risking their lives everyday just to tell me I have a tail light out. And I squeeked by not having to come home to Anthony and say, look what I got today!

Serenity

2008-11-25T19:48:00.004-05:00

God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference.

Living one day at a time; Enjoying one moment at a time; Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace; Taking, as He did, this sinful world as it is, not as I would have it; Trusting that He will make all things right if I surrender to His Will; That I may be reasonably happy in this life and supremely happy with Him Forever in the next. Amen.

I have been struggling with some personal family issues for several months now. Tonight, as I watched Natalie at swim practice and thinking about the impending holidays, I have decided to take a different approach. I was listening to my Mp3 player, and came across a song I hadn't heard in so long. Last winter, when Natalie was having so many issues with girls at school, we totally related to this song. Cause when push comes to shove You taste what you're made of You might bend, till you break Cause its all you can take On your knees you look up Decide you've had enough You get mad you get strong Wipe your hands shake it off Then you Stand, Then you stand. I need to strengthen my backbone, and put an end to the bullying. I do not have the control over what people do or say. I cannot change them, so I must accept it.

Dr. Laura says there are 4 r's to determining if you should forgive or be forgiven. In my case, forgive. Responsibility, Remorse, Repair, & Repetition. Watching her blog, helped me to come to this decision. If you want to watch the Dr. Laura Link, click here.

Therefore, I've made the decision that this holiday, I will have the strength to endure whatever my bully will throw at me! I will learn to Stand. Isn't it strange how stuff happens during the day, to bring you to decisions that you struggle with? Almost as if you see things so much clearer. God has granted me the wisdom to know the difference. Thank you Awesome Father!

Our Fishy

2008-11-25T16:24:00.007-05:00

The results are in from the swim meet. Natalie took 2nd place in freestyle relay event, and 6th place in butterfly. She has moved up in the age brackets this year, so she has some work to do for endurance. Instead of just swimming 25 yrds(one time across) she had to swim 50 (across and back). So endurance is what she is working on. Here's a few pics from the big event. The next one in 2 weeks! Go Bees!

Spirit(all over)

Cheering on teammates

If you want to view all her swim heats, click here. Photobucket is a wonderful thing!

Twilight

2008-11-23T19:04:00.003-05:00

I went this weekend and saw the movie Twilight. Twice. The movie was very good. It stayed true to the book, which I'm so glad I read first. It seems like I always see the movie first and then think, oh I should read the book. I think the people who played Bella and Edward did a great job. I just read on Stephenie Meyer's website, they are already making the next movie in the series. I'm so glad, but I'm sure we will have to wait a full year to see it! At last a movie to look forward to. We all look forward to the Harry Potter films, and I remember waiting so long to see the next film in the Lord of the Rings Trilogy.
Go Edward and Bella!

Christmas Tree

2008-11-20T19:24:00.003-05:00

Does anyone have their tree up yet? I'm not allowed to even think about Christmas decorating until after Thanksgiving. It seems every year Christmas gets here faster and faster and there is just not enough time to get everything done. I'm sitting here at my computer tonight, listening to it snow/hail outside and wonder how I can plan on not having to do everything last minute. I do this every year, I always say I'm not going to do last minute shopper this year, and it never fails, its Christmas Eve and I'm at Meijers getting wrapping paper, cookies, baking supplies and whatever else I procrastinated about for the last 3 weeks. UGH, I want to waive a magic wand and have everything done and wrapped and under the tree.
First things first, I need to get the tree! Our family tradition is that we go to this tree farm near Indiana. We get all bundled up and climb on the trailer pulled by horses with sleigh bells (my favorite sound at Christmas) and go out to the field and start the hunt. In years past, it has always been my job to pick out the tree. I had no experience picking out a tree, so of course I'd find the perfect looking one, Anthony would cut it down and when we got it home, he'd scream "Could you find a tree with a more crooked trunk?" So to solve this problem, it is now Natalie's job to pick the tree, that way there is no comments made about the tree trunk! When the tree is picked out, we ride back to the store, and pick out this years "family" ornament. A cup of cocoa later, we are on our way home to decorate our tree.
Here's my favorite picture of theses moments....

To view all our Christmas tree picking memories click here

Tootsies

2008-11-20T18:45:00.004-05:00

Have you seen these toe socks at Walgreens? Natalie loves them, but I think they are uncomfortable. It must be a young feet thing!

Last night was Natalie's Thanksgiving Concert, where she got to play her recorder and sing 2 songs. The program went on without any problems. But each girl had to call each other to see what dress they are wearing. This is 3rd grade, does it matter if its the same dress? I think brown is the new black this year. Natalie's dress was brown and about 3 other girls were brown too. Luckly, noone had the same dress!

It's closer to Turkey and I'm looking for some receipes! gobble gobble

What a relief

2008-11-15T20:11:00.003-05:00

All is good in the world again. Anthony called said he finally killed something. Kill the whitetail, that's all they think about. Venison Chili anyone?

He can dream....

Falling for Leaves

2008-11-07T18:56:00.005-05:00

It's that time of year again, and our oak tree finally decided to let go of its leaves. So I spent the after noon raking up the leaves. I am thankful that we don't have to bag them up, we just rake them to the curb and a guy comes by and sucks them up into his truck. Its weird to see a huge vacuum tube connected to a truck. Of course Natalie finds in fascinating.

"Take time every day to do something ridiculous."
Author: Philipa Walker
Next week Anthony leaves for deer camp. Stayed tuned to my version of Deer Camp Rules.

Ready, Set, Go

2008-11-03T20:10:00.004-05:00

I'm so proud, Natalie moved up from beginners to intermediate in Swim Team. She is improving more and more each day. She really needs to work on the endurance part, but that will come more with practice...Natalie's first meet is November 22, let's get to work.

Natalie got a really cute jacket and snow pants today from her Grandma. I'm hoping the snow pants can be worn at a much later date....I don't even want to think about snow yet. The jacket is white/Lime Green with pink piping around it. Very cute, and of course, she looks so cute in it. Why can't they make cute stuff for adults?
We bought Natalie her very own saddle to ride her horse. Needless to say Natalie had a great bday. Now as the day is done, I'm totally done. Although the only thing I have to look forward to now is the holidays. UGH, I'm really not ready for that!

Happy Birthday Natalie

2008-11-03T03:31:00.005-05:00

Dear Natalie,
I looked at you today and saw the same beautiful eyes that looked at me with love when you were a baby. I looked at you today and saw the same beautiful mouth that made me cry when you first smiled at me. It was not long ago that I held you in my arms long after you fell asleep and I just kept rocking you all night...
I looked at you today and saw my beautiful daughter no longer a baby but a beautiful person with a full range of emotions and feelings and ideas and goals. Every day is exciting as I continue to watch you grow. And I want you to always know that in good and bad times I will love you no matter what you do, or how you think, or what you say. You can depend on my support, guidance, friendship and love every minute of every day. I love being your mom.
Happy 9th Birthday Natalie, we love you.
P.S. Swim hard tonight!
Mommy

To view Natalie's year in review click here

Too much 80's?

2008-11-02T14:10:00.002-05:00

Press pause on the music playlist below, before you play video

High School

2008-11-02T13:11:00.004-05:00

Natalie is going to see High School Musical 3 again today. She is totally into Corbin Bleu since she got to meet him this last summer at the fair. I took Natalie and her friend last week to see it, and the theater was fill with screaming girls. Today, she's is going with a friend, and hopefully the theater will not be in the same shape as it was for me!

My baby girl turns 9 tomorrow. Where does the time go? I can't believe I have a 9 year old. For some reason, this birthday to me is bittersweet. Is it because she 1 year closer to double digits? Is it because she is growing at such a fast rate, that I can't keep up? Or, do I long to have my cuddle bunny back, as she is constantly pulling away, I just want to hold on.......I'll make it through, I'm sure I will.

My daughter how you're growing
and changing every day;
Some day you'll be too busy
to dance, and sing, and play.
It seems like only yesterday
I rocked you in my arms;
and though a tiny baby
I was captured by your charms.
Then in the blinking of an eye
a toddler walked to me,
Those days too are gone now
but oh, how can that be.
Now when I look at you
a little girl I see,
with grown up dreams and wishes
playing make-believe.
Too soon you will be all grown up,
but my pride will never end.
For I'll always be your Mother and I hope your dearest friend

Trick or Treat

2008-10-30T20:47:00.002-04:00

We made it, Natalie didn't get sick this year so we actually got to go trick or treating! This year we did something different. We did Trunk or Treat. In our high school parking lot, we went from trunk to trunk getting candy. I felt this was the safest way to go this year because of all the scares with candy sabotages. It was fun, but the line was looooong. At least we had good weather this year.

Just like a ghost, you've been a-hauntin' my dreams, so I'll propose on Halloween. Love is kinda crazy with a spooky little girl like you. -Classics IV

What's on my mind

2008-10-26T10:23:00.003-04:00

Here's what is on my mind.....
Swimming...
Diving....
Swimming....
Szanghi....
Swimming....
Spelling Words...
State Capitals.....
Measuring inches....
Swimming..
Diving...
Swimming...
Szanghi....
Swimming....
UGH

Pumpkin Fun

2008-10-18T18:21:00.005-04:00

Tonight Natalie and I did what we traditionally do, while Daddy is off in the woods, looking for Bambi. We went to Dinges Farms and had a ball at Fall Harvest. I take Natalie every year, and take her picture at the same attractions each time. It's so neat to see how much she's grown in one year, and to see her facial features mature. In a way it's sad too. I feel like this is my last year doing it. She is no longer interested in the train rides, the hay rides, all she wanted to do is go through the corn maze. My pumpkin is growing up, and I have no more excuses to ride the train, or watch her go through the kiddie maze. I had some bittersweet moments today.

She is growing up to be such a lovely girl, but I also miss the days where she would fit on my lap and laugh while we rode the train........ Here are a few of my favorite moments this year

My sweet pumpkin

How tall am I this year?

I'll be 9 in 2 weeks!

Happy Harvest everyone!

Szanghi

2008-10-09T18:54:00.003-04:00

Natalie had her horse lesson today and she got to ride Shanghi. We are considering leasing him for her and we wanted her to have a few lessons on him before we jump into the lease. He was really good with her today, although he certainly is not our Gholli.
Shanghi has a bad habit of throwing his shoulder and turning his head when Natalie tried to turn him. He learned pretty quick, that Natalie was a young rider, and he tried his best to get away with it everytime. He would also slow almost to a stop when she would cross the entrance to the barn. I think they are going to be a really good match. I've come to the conclusion, that he's not going to give it to her, unless she knows how to ask for it. One thing I know for sure, Natalie loves a challenge, and I think that this horse will certainly challenge her!

On another note, in an earlier post, I mentioned how I started to read the twilight saga series. Well, after the horse lesson, we ran to Target so I could buy the last book in the series "Breaking Dawn" I just have to know what happens to Bella and Edward. I don't think I've ever read books this fast before. This last book has 800 pages........here I go

Miles of Smiles

2008-10-07T19:43:00.002-04:00

This afternoon, I was reading Ramsey's Ramblings and I thought she had a clever idea. She started a new blog of just pictures, one for every day. So, of course, I have to copy. So tonight, I made the decision to do the same. We'll see how long mine lasts!!!
Check out the new blog, here.

I also found a new blog, that is hysterical, if you need a good laugh everyday, read this one.

Up to no good

2008-10-07T12:45:00.004-04:00

It's been a few days since I last blogged. It just seems life is getting so busy lately. I have read now 3 of the twilight saga books. I'm dying to get to the store to get the last book. I just have to know what happens to Bella!

Natalie has been very excited about the new toy that has been parked in our yard ever since daddy came home from his hunting adventure. Faster, daddy faster!

It's a borrowed toy, but Natalie wants it to stay permanently! Is it possible to be a girly girl outdoors adventurer? How would you describe that?

Next week, we start Swim Team again, and we all are excited. Can't wait to cheer you on, baby girl! Every time, you step onto that starting block, my heart pounds with excitement, fear, and pride. I can't wait!

Lady Lancer

2008-09-27T18:08:00.002-04:00

Watch Natalie cheerlead, click on Nat's link/cheerleading.

Lancer's Rock the House!

A new Saga

2008-09-26T17:30:00.005-04:00

What have I been doing? Well, I picked up this book called "Twilight" and haven't been able to put it down. I read the whole book in 3 days. I have not done that with a book in years. I have already ordered the next book in the series and I am chomping at the bit to get it. I want to run out to the mail box every day to see if its here yet. I can't wait to see what happens to Bella and Edward............

If you like love stories, with a "bite" run and go get this book!!!!!

Bumming around

2008-09-21T12:46:00.004-04:00

Well it's already Sunday afternoon, I'm trying to get some long over due chores done. It seems the laundry is never done. We are a family of only 3, I don't know how a larger family ever keeps up!

Lancer's won this weekend, we took Natalie to the football game on Friday night. She was totally into the cheerleaders, studying and watching their every move. She even did a hurkey with them. She couldn't help herself!

Saturday was her turn to cheer. It was a 12:30 game, and of course its 85 degrees, full sun. So she was miserable the whole time, and it totally shows on her face!!!

It's back to school tomorrow, and I'm relieved. Its been a long weekend and I'm ready to get back in the routine. Although, our weeks are busy with after school activities, I want to be back in the swing of it.

A friend loaned me her book on CD called "The Secret" I've been wanting to read it, but the book is always checked out at the library. So I will be listening it at work this week, and hopefully it is everything I hope it to be. Will post later on the outcome.......Back to chores

Go, Fight, Win!

2008-09-16T19:26:00.005-04:00

FIGHT

WIN

We are now officially a cheerleader. All day long I hear cheers and seeing 'hurkeys" Practice makes perfect! We love our Lancers, GO RED!

3rd Grade

2008-09-03T19:03:00.004-04:00

Backpacked stuffed with brand new crayons, markers, and various school supplies,$45. New school outfit (Old Navy) $35. Lunch packed with ham/cheese sandwich and a capri sun, $2. Mom taking my picture every year in front of that tree for the first day of school, priceless.

I'm ready, I'm off!

Doesn't my baby look all grown up!

Getting Old

2008-09-01T22:48:00.002-04:00

Here is a conversation I had with Natalie this weekend!

Me: Well, its the end of summer now, and we will be celebrating your birthday next. Gosh, you are going to be 9 years old. You are getting old, Natalie.
Nat: Mom, 9 isn't old; you're not old until you're like 35 or whatever.....
Me: Thanks, for clearing that up Nat!

Yes, I hope you all are laughing right now!

Labor Day

2008-09-01T22:17:00.004-04:00

We made it back from camping this weekend. We decided to camp this weeked as a last wha-hoo before school starts. Natalie has been begging all summer to go camping, so as a last treat before school, we gave in and went to Twin Oaks Campground in Wellston, MI. That's about 3 hours Northern Michigan, near Manistee.

Of course we did our usual visit to Na-Tah-Ka for dinner on Saturday night, and Sunday we went into Manistee and got to see "their" beach. I think I appreciate their beach better than ours and that may be because I see ours all the time. It pretty much looks the same as ours, just a bit northerner?

I took quite a bit of pictures, mostly scenery pictures because Natalie made a friend at the campground, and she was gone all the time. I'm glad she had a great time. On the way home from Na-Tah-Ka, we went deer hunting and Anthony finally caught up with the albino deer that rumored lived in some parts. After 3 years of hearing about the rumor, we finally caught them on video. A mama deer, with 2 fawns, one was albino like her, one brown. That was neat to see.

The only bad thing about the weekend, was a moment in the restrooms at the campsite. Ok, I have to get on a high horse for a moment, and speak my mind. This campground is near the pine river, which lots and lots of people love to canoe down. So towards the back of the campground were the tenters/canoers. I believe they put them in back of the campground for reason, it gets loud and party hardy. All weekend, I told myself that these are young, consenting adults, with no responsibilities, who cares if they want to drink and be promiscuous, so be it. UNTIL, a conversation I heard in the women's restroom. Here I am, after my shower, putting on my Kmart clothes, listening to 2 lady's talking while putting on their Clinque makeup. The conversation was basically how they needed to get back home to their KIDS, and spend some time with them before school starts. Here comes my self-righteousness......So parents dump their kids off at the grandparents house for the weekend, in order to spend a weekend getting drunk, possibly some sort of disease, and to canoe? I think this is wrong in so many ways. Such an example these "parents" are giving. Enough on that........off the horse now.......

We have some great scenic pictures, if you like to view them click here
Need to pack lunch for school tomorrow....Yeah!

School Time/Bed Time

2008-08-21T21:36:00.004-04:00

Why is it so difficult to make the transition back to school? No more staying up late, and sleeping in. I have been struggling all week with trying to enforce an earlier bed time in order to get back into the routine of early to bed, early to rise again.
It's still light outside, or I'm not tired yet. Can I just have 5 more minutes outside? I'm sure I'm not the only parent who has heard these lines.
My goal is to have this complete transition by next weekend. I could use as many prayers as I can get.

I have decided that this school year, I'm going to be a little more involved with school volunteering and projects. So I have volunteered myself for quite a bit this year, and I'm not sure how I'm going to work this all in. I signed up for the walking program (count the laps around the track that kids do), Thanksgiving feast, accelerated reader program, star cafe, book fair. As you can see, I'm doing my fair share. Ugh, let's hope I don't go loony by winter break!

Natalie is going to continue swim team, diving, and of course, horse riding. Let's fit that all in the mix too. So how many days till next summer?

I'm going to take some advice from a song I love by Trace Adkins:
You're gonna miss this
You're gonna want this back
You're gonna wish these days hadn't gone by so fast
These are some good times
So take a good look around
You may not know it now
But you're gonna miss this

Swimming Benefits

2008-08-13T22:06:00.004-04:00

As you all probably figured out by now, Natalie is on the swim team. Having such a difficult school year, I struggled to find her something that she could do, stay healthy, and keep her focused. I needed something that she could say that she did other than "I'm a second grader." Of course, we've tried the normal things, gymnastics, soccer, softball etc. But these sports were good one day, and the next day, who cares attitude. Until swimming......
She's in the pool every day. Of course there has been disadvantages as well, mainly her hair damage, but all in all, who could ask for a better solution for all her issues she was dealing with in her life. So I thought I would do some research as to what swimming really does for your body/mind, this is what I found.

Promotes physical development

Develops aerobic endurance and is the most beneficial form of cardiovascular exercise

Enhances flexibility and promotes muscular development and posture

Develops superior coordination

Learn life skills like: Time management, self discipline, sportsmanship

Teaches how to set and achieve goals

Swimmers do better in school vs. non-swimmers

You can view Natalie's swimming accomplishments by clicking on her "swim team link"

Our Summer so far

2008-08-13T21:54:00.004-04:00

Well, I have to say the summer has been all about Natalie. After the very bad school year we had, this summer certainly has made up for it. To sum it up, she has practiced so hard in her swimming, that it paid off by placing 3rd in freestyle event and 10th over all (out of 35) in the backstroke event.

Then of course we have the diving. She placed 2nd place. This of course wasn't an official meet, but the coach wanted them to see what an event would look like etc.

Next, we have her and Gholli. Those two are finally getting to know each other and the trust and bond grows stronger each lesson. I'm so thankful she has Gholli to come to when she's having a rough day.

Now, this week at the fair, she received the grand champion ribbon for her dish garden entry. AND tonight, she got to meet Corbin Bleau. Of all nights, I forgot my camera, so I had to borrow one. So that picture is coming. I think that pretty much topped off her summer!

I don't remember having summers quite like this. She's a lucky girl.

I'm Back!

2008-08-12T06:24:00.003-04:00

My computer part has finally arrived, and I again have Internet access! It's been a rough couple of weeks, but I have endured the pain!

Yesterday was the first day of the county fair, and Natalie made a dish garden to enter for judging. She was so excited, the got the Champion ribbon this year for her efforts, way to go Nat!

We usually spend the whole week at the fair every year, because Anthony works the fair all week long. So if we want to see him, we have to go there to see him. It's very long days for him.
Today is Natalie's diving meet, so the day at the fair will be a bit broken up. I'm secretly happy about that. I'm usually all faired out by Monday afternoon at 3pm!

I'd rather be school shopping!

Disconnected

2008-07-29T18:13:00.002-04:00

I feel so disconnected. I have not had Internet at home in over a week. Anthony's laptop works, but my computer has "special" needs and cannot connect to the Internet until we get an adapter. So here I sit, at my local library, checking my email and blogging. Natalie is going through withdrawls because she can't feed her pets on Webkinz world. It's amazing how much we depend on our computers and what we miss about the Internet.

I'm so used to just sitting down, typing google, and getting the information I need. Now, when I want to know something I write it down on a piece of paper and go to the library to "google." And what's really bad is no shopping! UGH

Gosh, just put me out of my misery!!!

One Summer afternoon

2008-07-14T20:49:00.009-04:00

Since daddy had to leave for work early this afternoon, Natalie and I took a different approach to the afternoon. We decided to go get a bite to eat and then went to feed the ducks in St. Joe.

Here are the bachelor's

The next thing we did was look at the sculptures along the river. Some of them are a little strange, but if you are artsy, you might like them.

Did you loose your muffler?

Natalie thinks this looks like a toothbrush, I think it looks like a pelican, what do you think?

Natalie and I love to go to St. Joe, so much to do, and she has already asked me to take her to the Venetian Festival this weekend to see Mitchel Musso. I'll have to see about that, fighting crowds and heat is not my version of a good time.

Natalie asked can we go to the beach tonight? Ok, let's go, just for a 1/2 hour. I love taking her to the beach, but I cannot relax when I am there. I fear Lake Michigan. About 4 years ago on the 4th of July, Anthony was working and there were 6 lives taken within 2 hours because of the rip. I have respect for the lake. Let's go!

While Natalie went swimming, I paced the shore watching. I thought I would look for rock glass along the shore. I found quite a few pieces and Natalie was thrilled! She asked me if I was wearing my contacts tonight!

Did you know that you could hide in the dune grass, totally camouflage yourself? Tell me what you see?

Funny story about dune grass. Once upon a time, not too long ago, there was a 20 year old girl visiting our side of the lake, from her side of the lake(Chicago). Anyway, she had too much to drink one night, and passed out in the dune grass. At 2:30 in the morning, a sleepy fireman I know, was abruptly awakened to the sound of the pager going off, needing his help to find a missing girl. Her cell phone was found by the water, her friends were frantic with worry, listening to the sounds of the helicopter searching the waters, the state police with the dogs, and the fireman with flashlights. Anyway, enough drama, she passed out in the dune grass, woke up, wandered up to a fireman and asked, what's going on man? 15 fireman, 3 state policeman, and the coast guard made it quite clear to her what was going on. tee hee

It was a good summer evening, I hope to have more of these this summer

Birthday Blues are done

2008-07-12T19:50:00.003-04:00

Well the birthday party was a smash, and I ended up getting him a Nerf gun that shoots big nerf type balls. I think I made a good choice, because after I thought about it, I realized he is more of a outdoors sports type kid. Not too many action figures for this little guy.

Speaking of Little Dudes, we have a new member to our family. His name is little dude, and he belongs to the amphibian family, please welcome "Little Dude"

Little Dude is a tree frog, that got swept into Grandma's House, so Natalie had to rescue him. I guess they eat crickets?? Will keep you posted on Little Dudes life. We may be setting him free soon. I don't know if I want to feed something live crickets everyday, pardon me but I'm more of a city girl......

Birthday blues

2008-07-10T12:48:00.002-04:00

No, it's not my birthday yet, trust me I can wait for that! My nephew is turning 6 on Saturday and we are invited to his party. The problem I am having is what in the world do boys play with these days. I struggle with this every year, I have 3 nephews and what do boys like to do? I can handle the girl party's easily, hands down, blind folded and one hand tied behind my back.

I spend so much time in Target trying to find a "toy" that will be in the latest craze. I ask my friends that have boys, and they are like oh, get him transformers, magnetix, this or that, and I probably looking at them like they are talking Greek to me. I think one year, in Target I found a boy in the toy section about the age I was looking for and had him pick out something. His Mom was very understanding that I wasn't some freak trying to hurt him. lol

Is Nerf stuff still a hit with boys, do they like that stuff? I worry about buying transformers or action figures because I don't know what he already has. I thought about giving a gift card, but is that really fun to open on your birthday at 6 years old?

Since I won't have Internet this weekend, I'll be in Target in the boy section of the toy isle, searching for an idea, longing for some boy to come in and help me. Pathetic, I know....

Need to Connect

2008-07-10T12:38:00.004-04:00

I finally talked Anthony into letting our "landline" go and just keep our cell phones. It will save us about $100 a month. After months of negotiating he finally tired and said alright(he has issues with 911, why in the world he would worry about that is beyond me lol). So I proudly called AT&T this morning to disconnect and order and all that stuff. OH NO!

Good news is, we can have the high speed internet without a "phone line" but, they have to send a tech out and wire the box thing outside and the soonest available is next week. So I will be without internet until next week. So, I will have to go somewhere else to do my blogging and checking in on my peeps. I guess it will worth it all when the bill comes and its only $39 instead of a $139.
Countdown starts today, hope I make it!

My Space

2008-07-08T20:15:00.003-04:00

I have had several people tell me that they have "my spaces." I am trying to figure out what the crazyness is about having a my space account. I went to the website, and in order to look around at any people, you have to become a member.

So my question is, do you sign up for a my space to "spy" on all your "friends", and the friends I mean are your co-workers, your neighbors, your classmates, etc., or do you sign up to do the social networking. I have to admit, I do belong to a few of the "social network" websites, but in the past, I chose the more family friendly sites.

So yes, I joined my space in order to "spy" on my friends! I'm not quite sure how much time I will put into developing "my space." I'm still skeptical about it. Anyone have advice on this subject?

Oh Golly

2008-07-06T21:02:00.003-04:00

Natalie had her next lesson on Friday, and had so much fun riding and learning with her new friend Golly. Natalie actually rode her all by herself, the trainer unsnapped the lead rope from Golly and said you can ride her anywhere you want(in the arena).

Horses lend us the wings we lack. ~Author Unknown

We love you Gol!

Our 4th

2008-07-06T20:46:00.005-04:00

Well the weekend is almost over. It's been a long, but fun one. We watched fireworks in Baroda on Thursday, I think that was one of the best shows in a long time. Then on Friday, we went to a cookout at Grandma's house. Natalie got to see her cousins and play for a while, which is always a plus for an only child. We cooked hot dogs/hamburgers and ate the famous chocolate cupcakes. Unfortunately, this year there was no 4th of July parade. Later that evening, we sat in Uncle Patrick's driveway and watched the St. Joseph fireworks, which are always awesome.

Yesturday, Nat & I went to see Wall-E, because Daddy got called into work. No sober medics could be found, so duty called for daddy. Wall-E was really cute, we enjoyed watching it. Then we went to other Grandma's house for more burgers/hot dogs and again played outside with the cousins. Water balloons were a big hit there.

It's been a long weekend, but I'm sort of glad to be back to work tomorrow(not). Although, it will be nice to get back into the schedule again!

Me & My Girl Evidence of Chocolate Cupcakes!

Beach Fun to end the weekend

What a weekend! Wish every weekend could be like this one!

My Hair

2008-07-03T20:23:00.006-04:00

Early this year, I decided to cut my hair into the famous bob that everyone is wearing. I've likedthis style so much, that every time I go back for a "trim" it's more like a little more shorter. So recently at Natalie's swim meet, I saw a lady with more of the "posh" bob look. I really like the way she styled it and it looked really good on her. So, I called and made an appointment for my usual 6 week "trim". Here's my before look:

Here's my trim:

of, course no fresh makeup, so you will have to bear with it. I think it turned out fantastic!

Congrats to Nat!

2008-06-28T21:44:00.004-04:00

Our girl took 3rd place(out of 5) at her first swim meet last night. She swam 2 heats, back stroke and free style and place 3rd each time. Natalie was so nervous she was in tears, but after the first heat, she was fine. We're so proud of you Nat, way to go!

Our next meet is in 2 weeks, good luck baby!

Manners

2008-06-23T19:28:00.004-04:00

Do people in these times forget their manners? I beginning to think so. Have you ever come across some that you know in the grocery store or in Target, and you either give a nod hello and wave, or you give a polite Hello, how are you and continue on your way?
Well I recently "ran into" someone I know, and by running into I mean we literally almost ran into one another. I did my polite Hello, and she gave me a look like I was the plague, and then proceeded on her way as if this incident never occurred and I don't exist. So how did I handle it? As loudly as I could(without embarrassing Natalie) I said HELLO again. I think I got my point across!

Ford Lake Vacation 2008

2008-06-21T22:10:00.001-04:00

Photo Hunt

2008-06-21T21:21:00.003-04:00

I soppose the theme this week is water. Thats very easy for me to do this week! Here it is!

I'm Back!

2008-06-21T20:18:00.006-04:00

I made it back from vacation, and I am stuck home doing laundry. I think that is the worst thing about coming home, is all the laundry.

We stayed in a little cottage on Ford Lake in Fountain, MI. That's about a 3 hour drive from where we live. Natalie did well on the ride up and back, I had plenty of snacks and I would like to thank Mr. Ninetendo, and Mrs. DVD player! The weather was a bit cooler this year, so unfortunately Natalie couldn't do a lot of swimming. But we did have some boat rides, I did catch a fish, and we all ate very very well!

I usually only fish about 2-3 times a year, only because I really don't have the patience for it. But I got lucky, this time. I caught a pumpkinseed blue gill, on a pink bober! ohh, life is good. Start planning for next year....I'm working on getting some pictures on...

I need a vacation!

2008-06-12T08:46:00.002-04:00

I did not realize that life would be busier once school let out. It seems like I don't have any time left at the end of the day to do anything, and I feel like I have neglected my blog. Maybe its because the weather is nicer and we've been spending more and more time outside. Natalie's garden is coming along nicely. Her tomatoes are coming along great! Natalie is starting to get back in the swim mode. But its really all about the horse riding right now. We have made several trips to the stable just to give carrots and apple treats to Duke & Golly. I'm still wondering if this is a phase or a real deal!
Well since I've been neglecting the blog, I have been working on a website for Natalie and her new hobby. It's still under construction, but I think its coming along well. Click here to view.
We leave for vacation on Saturday, we are going up north and there is no wi-fi where we are going. There are also no phones. It will be tough, but I will suffer through :)

See how much I've grown

2008-06-10T20:12:00.006-04:00

We are so proud of you Natalie! Your garden is growing. She has lettuce, beans and tomato growing. All that love, should reap benefits....

List List List

2008-06-09T19:21:00.002-04:00

Since Anthony is done teaching his high school class for the summer, he gets to spend his whole summer with Natalie. What kind of trouble can they get themselves into???
I'm struggling here because today was Anthony's first day on the job and Natalie called me 4 times at work today "I'm bored." So I've come up with the idea of making a "schedule" of things to do during the day for each day of the week, so Natalie knows exactly whats going on and hopefully avoid those phone calls.
I got a little help from a website called chartjungle. They have printable calendars and charts to fill in. Wish me luck!

ChartJungle.com