Christmas eve was nice and pleasant this year..aka: no snow. We were able to attend the 11:30 service and both girl's stayed awake for the whole thing.
Christmas morning the girl's opened present here at home and were pleased that Santa checked off the list with Emily getting a baby crib, DS and mp3 player. Kayla received an mp3 player, a netbook and legos.
We were then off to Annette's house for the Taylor Christmas. There was plenty of food and good times. Of course the kid's enjoyed swimming in the pool as well.
Sunday we were off to Branson for the Keiser Christmas. We had good times opening presents, shopping and doing Silver Dollar City. It was nice to get away and just hang out. I think that it may just have to become a tradition.
Tonight is New Year's Eve and we decided to let Kayla have a couple of friends over, so Peyton, Kennedy and Courtney C are here spending the night. We figure we might as well start the tradition of letting our house be the safe/fun house so that we know where the girl's are and who they are with as they get older.
2010 has been a good year and 2011 is going to be great!
Friday, December 31, 2010
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Thanksgiving and almost Christmas
This year we went to Defiance again for Thanksgiving. I not sure we really go for Thanksgiving but more for the fact that mom and I can go shopping on Black Friday....which this year started on Thursday, Thanksgiving Day.
First mom and I headed to K-mart at 6:00 Thursday morning after throwing the turkey in the oven. We are VERY productive at K-mart including mps players and netbooks....mission accomplished for the most important Christmas gifts.
Then we went home had turkey, decorated, took a nap and at 8:30 that night we headed back out to Toys R Us......the line was unbeleiveable. There were literally thousands of people in line. They let people in until they reached max capacity and then it was one out--one in. We left because we still weren't even close to the entrance at that point.
Wal-mart proved to be productive again....but interesting. Need a DS from there and was able to get a ticket quickley but would have to sit there until 5:00. Well, mom and I sat in amoungst toilet paper for a couple of hours until I heard a lady say that Wal-mart.com had them for the same price. So I called Tim and got him out of bed so that he could buy it online and I could get out of line. Mission accomplished.
We then headed to Kohl's, Gordman's, Target and Michael's. It was a good thing we packed hot cocoa because it was cold. But we did very well....we started about 8:30 Thursday night and got home about 7:00 Friday morning...crazy fun!
The girl's have had their Christmas Recital and school programs. They did very well!
Kayla was also asked to dance at the Christmas Card and she did amazingly well, dancing to Walking In a Winter Wonderland.
Tomorrow is Christmas Eve and we are almost ready. Christmas Day we will headed to Annette's house for the Taylor Christmas and then the next three days we will be in Branson for the Keiser Christmas. It will be different but I think it will be a fun change. Can't wait to go see the lights at Silver Dollar City.
First mom and I headed to K-mart at 6:00 Thursday morning after throwing the turkey in the oven. We are VERY productive at K-mart including mps players and netbooks....mission accomplished for the most important Christmas gifts.
Then we went home had turkey, decorated, took a nap and at 8:30 that night we headed back out to Toys R Us......the line was unbeleiveable. There were literally thousands of people in line. They let people in until they reached max capacity and then it was one out--one in. We left because we still weren't even close to the entrance at that point.
Wal-mart proved to be productive again....but interesting. Need a DS from there and was able to get a ticket quickley but would have to sit there until 5:00. Well, mom and I sat in amoungst toilet paper for a couple of hours until I heard a lady say that Wal-mart.com had them for the same price. So I called Tim and got him out of bed so that he could buy it online and I could get out of line. Mission accomplished.
We then headed to Kohl's, Gordman's, Target and Michael's. It was a good thing we packed hot cocoa because it was cold. But we did very well....we started about 8:30 Thursday night and got home about 7:00 Friday morning...crazy fun!
The girl's have had their Christmas Recital and school programs. They did very well!
Kayla was also asked to dance at the Christmas Card and she did amazingly well, dancing to Walking In a Winter Wonderland.
Tomorrow is Christmas Eve and we are almost ready. Christmas Day we will headed to Annette's house for the Taylor Christmas and then the next three days we will be in Branson for the Keiser Christmas. It will be different but I think it will be a fun change. Can't wait to go see the lights at Silver Dollar City.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
She's been at it again!
Kayla has been at it again....winning. This year Kayla was selected to go to the State Public Speaking Contest for Extemporaneous....she was not excited. She only did it at Presentation Day because I made her do it.....but that's what moms are for :) So on Sept 11th she participated in the state contest at MU. We all went up and Donna Cook came with us. She drew 1st speaker and had a choice of three topics. (What do you want to learn in 4-H this year? Tell us about your Specialist or YPA? and What are good character traits?) She choose what she wanted to learn and talked about gardening. She made her three minutes! and after I had to ask if she really wanted to learn about gardening? She said NO, but it was the only thing I can could think to talk about! ha ha, I guess you can say she is learning to BS. Wonder who she gets that from?
Anyway, there were six in her room and we knew she easily made the top three but it would just depend on the judge that day. Well, the judge was in her favor and she won! She received a really nice medal. Taylor Crooks also received first in prepared and Leia Love received 2nd in prepared...Shawnee Indians kicked butt!
We ended the day by going to the 4-H Day with the Tigers. Taylor came with us and the girls had a ton of fun learning all the cheers from Donna...not sure who had the most fun! It was a great day!!!
This week she was also asked to do her Pork Demo at the Annual Farm Bureau dinner. She gave it and did really well....blew the older ones out of the water! It was her largest audience to date with about 100 people in attendance.
Anyway, there were six in her room and we knew she easily made the top three but it would just depend on the judge that day. Well, the judge was in her favor and she won! She received a really nice medal. Taylor Crooks also received first in prepared and Leia Love received 2nd in prepared...Shawnee Indians kicked butt!
We ended the day by going to the 4-H Day with the Tigers. Taylor came with us and the girls had a ton of fun learning all the cheers from Donna...not sure who had the most fun! It was a great day!!!
This week she was also asked to do her Pork Demo at the Annual Farm Bureau dinner. She gave it and did really well....blew the older ones out of the water! It was her largest audience to date with about 100 people in attendance.
Friday, September 3, 2010
August has a strong finish!
State Fair was awesome of course! So, good to see so many of my old friends. I really could live at the State Fair for the 11 days. Keep in mind my family thinks I am crazy. Kayla gave her pork demo the first weekend and received 1st place. She did a really good job! Next year we are thinking International Foods!
The second weekend of the fair the girl's and I went back to catch some of the shows that we missed. Such as the dog show and to be a part of the water bottle rocket launch. The Crook's and Maddie were with us and it was a nice relaxing day.
For my birthday we went to play Putt Putt with my sorority and many laughs were had. The best is watching the girls on to go cart track. Kayla almost passed Greg and Emily this year!
The last weekend of the month we meet Mom and Mike, Stacey, James, Josie and Jordyn and Pam at Big Cedar for a weekend get-away. Of course we hit SDC but we also just hung out at the pools at Big Cedar. I must tell you the place is really growing on me. We had a great time with the family and started planning the big vacation next year...looking like Wisconsin Dells.
School started for the girls and they are excited. Emily enjoys kindergarten and likes being at school with her sister. Kayla is doing well, but is going to be challenged this year now that she is a "big kid." :)
Last night I signed them up for dance class. It looks like Emily is on Monday's and Kayla is on Thursday's. We thought Kayla would also have to take a Ballet class on Tues but we lucked out and she was moved up, so all classes are on Thursday!
The second weekend of the fair the girl's and I went back to catch some of the shows that we missed. Such as the dog show and to be a part of the water bottle rocket launch. The Crook's and Maddie were with us and it was a nice relaxing day.
For my birthday we went to play Putt Putt with my sorority and many laughs were had. The best is watching the girls on to go cart track. Kayla almost passed Greg and Emily this year!
The last weekend of the month we meet Mom and Mike, Stacey, James, Josie and Jordyn and Pam at Big Cedar for a weekend get-away. Of course we hit SDC but we also just hung out at the pools at Big Cedar. I must tell you the place is really growing on me. We had a great time with the family and started planning the big vacation next year...looking like Wisconsin Dells.
School started for the girls and they are excited. Emily enjoys kindergarten and likes being at school with her sister. Kayla is doing well, but is going to be challenged this year now that she is a "big kid." :)
Last night I signed them up for dance class. It looks like Emily is on Monday's and Kayla is on Thursday's. We thought Kayla would also have to take a Ballet class on Tues but we lucked out and she was moved up, so all classes are on Thursday!
Thursday, August 12, 2010
July Over and August in Full Swing
So many things...here are a few highlights!
All Star Game---was soo much fun! We had sixteen girls that all wanted to play. Of course they were mostly pitchers and cathers but they were willing to play anywhere. We won the game and the girl's got to be coached by someone that was crazy and wanted to have fun! They all received some pretty cool medals.
Swim Lessons--were really good and the girl's had a ton of fun. Emily completed level 2 without any problem, she was hands down the best in her group. Kayla completed level 4 and had a blast with Taylor. It was jsut those two and two boys...the girl's beat the boy's everytime. Susan and I took advantage of the lazy river lap pool and mercy, we got a workout!
Vacation Bible School--went off without a hitch! Our theme was Saddle Ridge Ranch and one night the girl's got ot ride a mule around. Kennedy and Chez came with us to VBS. Kayla was in Robin Dicket's class and Emily was in Mary Green's class. Kayla said this was hands down the best VBS yet!
Then the girl's were off to mom's house for a week. They played everyday with their cousins, went shopping and saw Sound of Music at the Muny. They had a great time. At the end of the week they came to stay with me at Tan Tar A and then we all went to Branson for the weekend.
This is the last full week before school starts and both of the girl's are excited for school to be here. I am so blessed that I have two girl's that love school.
This weekend is State Fair and Kayla will go and give her pork demonstration. I think she has a good shot at placing.
All Star Game---was soo much fun! We had sixteen girls that all wanted to play. Of course they were mostly pitchers and cathers but they were willing to play anywhere. We won the game and the girl's got to be coached by someone that was crazy and wanted to have fun! They all received some pretty cool medals.
Swim Lessons--were really good and the girl's had a ton of fun. Emily completed level 2 without any problem, she was hands down the best in her group. Kayla completed level 4 and had a blast with Taylor. It was jsut those two and two boys...the girl's beat the boy's everytime. Susan and I took advantage of the lazy river lap pool and mercy, we got a workout!
Vacation Bible School--went off without a hitch! Our theme was Saddle Ridge Ranch and one night the girl's got ot ride a mule around. Kennedy and Chez came with us to VBS. Kayla was in Robin Dicket's class and Emily was in Mary Green's class. Kayla said this was hands down the best VBS yet!
Then the girl's were off to mom's house for a week. They played everyday with their cousins, went shopping and saw Sound of Music at the Muny. They had a great time. At the end of the week they came to stay with me at Tan Tar A and then we all went to Branson for the weekend.
This is the last full week before school starts and both of the girl's are excited for school to be here. I am so blessed that I have two girl's that love school.
This weekend is State Fair and Kayla will go and give her pork demonstration. I think she has a good shot at placing.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
So much to tell....
4th of July weekend of full of fun and relaxation with good friends. We of course were involved with the Olde Glory Days parade. I must admit now that I don't "have" to do it and be in charge of a float I enjoy it much more :) The girl's choose to be with By Grace this year so Kayla learned a dance, Emily handed out candy, I carried the banner and Tim drove the truck. We later went to Tim and Kathy's for the annual fish fry. Tim makes the best catfish. It sprinkled off and on all day but we had a good time hanging out with friends. Kayla did play kickball with the boys and feel down and hurt her wrist. not a good thing with the tournament the next week but she is ok. The next night we drove back into town to watch the fireworks. We meet Karen, Sandy, Richard and Jen and sat in the street outside of Bob and Deena's. It was a great place to watch the show.
We then started into tournament week, we easily beat the first team we had to play. The next team was a Windsor team which we had played before and lost by one. We knew it could easily go either way. Well, the girls came out strong and we stomped that team and made it to the east side championship. We then had to play the Warrensburg Green Hornets, a team that slaughtered us twice before at the beginning of the season. After coming out strong against Windsor we thought we would have a chance against Warrensburg. The girls came out a did a phenomenal job and we beat the Green Hornets in extra time. We won the east side. We then went to the east/west championship and played Centerview. We knew Rick Schimidli's team and won for the last several years and we were hoping to keep it close. The girl's did better than that and actually held them. We again went into overtime but ended up losing 7-6. It was a fabulous game! They all received really cool medals.
Next Saturday is the All Star game and then we will be done with softball for the year.
The fair is also going on and Kayla did well. Her fleece blanket and memory board are going to state. She also entered her water lily picture in the Fine Arts and got 3rd place.
Mission Clinton has also been this week. I have gone a couple of days and helped with FAITH. Kayla has gone almost everyday and worked with FAITH, painting the caboose, backyard vbs, etc. Tim went and weedeated tonight.
As if we didn't have enough to do we have also been having swimming lessons in Wbg. The girl's are all doing great and are learning new things.While they swim, Susan and I do laps in the lazy river.
Summer is half over......
We then started into tournament week, we easily beat the first team we had to play. The next team was a Windsor team which we had played before and lost by one. We knew it could easily go either way. Well, the girls came out strong and we stomped that team and made it to the east side championship. We then had to play the Warrensburg Green Hornets, a team that slaughtered us twice before at the beginning of the season. After coming out strong against Windsor we thought we would have a chance against Warrensburg. The girls came out a did a phenomenal job and we beat the Green Hornets in extra time. We won the east side. We then went to the east/west championship and played Centerview. We knew Rick Schimidli's team and won for the last several years and we were hoping to keep it close. The girl's did better than that and actually held them. We again went into overtime but ended up losing 7-6. It was a fabulous game! They all received really cool medals.
Next Saturday is the All Star game and then we will be done with softball for the year.
The fair is also going on and Kayla did well. Her fleece blanket and memory board are going to state. She also entered her water lily picture in the Fine Arts and got 3rd place.
Mission Clinton has also been this week. I have gone a couple of days and helped with FAITH. Kayla has gone almost everyday and worked with FAITH, painting the caboose, backyard vbs, etc. Tim went and weedeated tonight.
As if we didn't have enough to do we have also been having swimming lessons in Wbg. The girl's are all doing great and are learning new things.While they swim, Susan and I do laps in the lazy river.
Summer is half over......
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Camp
This week Kayla and I went to 4-H camp and we had a blast! The weather was beautiful this year and was in the upper 80's/low 90's. Kayla had severla friends with her including Taylor, Kennedy, Hannah, Whitney and Alyssa. It turned out that Alyss'a sister MacKayla was there counselor and they loved that. The theme this year was blast off and they had really cool evening programs. The first night there were several guys there with very expensive telescopes and we were able to see yellow and blue stars, rings on Saturn and the international space station went by as we were out there. The next night the Springfield zoo came and they had a golden eagle and a bald eagle with them that were beautiful.
Of course it is always fun for me to see my old friends again and cook in the kitchen. I love camp and it gives just a taste of the fun I use to have with all the kids.
Emily went with grandma to Branson for a few days while we were at camp. She was able to go to Silver Dollar City and see her cousins and hang out with them. She was ready to come home but I think she had fun too.
Of course it is always fun for me to see my old friends again and cook in the kitchen. I love camp and it gives just a taste of the fun I use to have with all the kids.
Emily went with grandma to Branson for a few days while we were at camp. She was able to go to Silver Dollar City and see her cousins and hang out with them. She was ready to come home but I think she had fun too.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Emily in Branson and Kayla and I Heading To Camp
Today we went to Sunday School and then the girls and I headed to Springfield. We first headed to the mall and hit every store looking for a one piece swimsuit for Kayla. I don't think they make them anymore for juniors. We then meet mom, Aunt Carol and Spencer so that Emily could do with them to Branson. Stacey and the kids are already down there. Mom will bring Emily back on Wed to camp. The house is so quiet without her here....I miss her already.
Tomorrow Kayla and I head to 4-H Camp. Kayla is so excited and can't wait. I must say that I can't wait to see my friends as well, I miss hanging out at camp. Kayla has several friends going and they are all in a cabin together; Kayla, Taylor, Kennedy, Whitney, Hannah and Alyssa will all be there together.
Can't wait for camp!!!
Tomorrow Kayla and I head to 4-H Camp. Kayla is so excited and can't wait. I must say that I can't wait to see my friends as well, I miss hanging out at camp. Kayla has several friends going and they are all in a cabin together; Kayla, Taylor, Kennedy, Whitney, Hannah and Alyssa will all be there together.
Can't wait for camp!!!
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Softball
Rain, Rain Go Away-- we have had so many rain out games! Last night was the last game for t-ball (they only had four) and it was rained out, so they have only played two games. Emily was so sad and upset. T-ball this year has really been a let down for her as they have had very few practices and very few games.
Kayla has four games this week because of make-ups. Tuesday night she hit a grand slam and we were all so excited. She has hit several home runs but usually there is no one on base and she was really wanting a grand slam. Last night she started out pitching and did ok. The real excitement was that Peyton was playing catcher and the two of them together got two girl's out that were trying to steal home. That was awesome! They worked so well together. Kayla also got her 5th home run. The rain then turned on and we thought we were going to have to make it up. However, the umps decided to go ahead and try to finish and when we all piled out of the cars....the other team only had one players left and had to forfeit! Too crazy!
Kayla has four games this week because of make-ups. Tuesday night she hit a grand slam and we were all so excited. She has hit several home runs but usually there is no one on base and she was really wanting a grand slam. Last night she started out pitching and did ok. The real excitement was that Peyton was playing catcher and the two of them together got two girl's out that were trying to steal home. That was awesome! They worked so well together. Kayla also got her 5th home run. The rain then turned on and we thought we were going to have to make it up. However, the umps decided to go ahead and try to finish and when we all piled out of the cars....the other team only had one players left and had to forfeit! Too crazy!
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Kayla is double digits!
Wow, Kayla turned 10 this week, I can't hardly beleive it. We have had a full week with games most every evening. Last weekend she begged and begged for a present early and we gave in. So last Saturday she opened up her new digital camera/video camera. She has been playing with it all week and capturing some just relaxed, fun family moments. Thursday I took off and Kayla and I went to the salon and had our hair cut, facials and manicures done. It was fun and her new cut looks really cute on her. That evening she opened up her other two presents which were a nintendo ds lite and the golf ladder ball game. Then we headed to Pizza Hut to eat with friends from church as part of a fundraiser for Mission Clinton. We took a homemade ice cream cake to share with everyone. All in all, I think she had a good day!
Last night were ball games again, Kayla got another homerun! Emily played her first t-ball game in Leeton. It is always fun to watch the little ones play and get excited.
Today I am suppose to procter the C-Base exam for a girl that needed accomadations...but so far she is a no show.
Last night were ball games again, Kayla got another homerun! Emily played her first t-ball game in Leeton. It is always fun to watch the little ones play and get excited.
Today I am suppose to procter the C-Base exam for a girl that needed accomadations...but so far she is a no show.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Recital and Presentation Day
Last weekend was the recital and Robin, Kylie, Erin and Donna all came to watch the girl's with daddy. The girl's did an awedome job! The looked and danced wonderfully. Emily had a really cute southern belle outfit that was white and black with red roses. Kayla had a pink ballet outfit with embroidery and then a fuscia little outfit for tap and jazz. Hopefully, I can get pixs posted soon.
We had our first softball win this week. When we ended the regulation time we were tied and had to go into another inning. The girl's managed to hold them to two runs and then cam back and scored to win. As Kayla said, "It feels good to win." It was been a long and frustrating season with rainouts and losses. But maybe we are on the up hill swinging.
Today was Presentation Day and Kayla was doing a demo on pork with a title of Super Bowl Appetizers. She did a good job. She thought she had it memorized well enough and got stuck at one point, but she recovered. She ended up with a purple and will go to the State Fair. She also got a blue on her table setting (luau birthday party), purple on judging and purple on her Extemp Speech and will go to state. I didn't really expect that but it will be fun. There are four girl's from our club that get to go to state. Leia and Taylor for prepared and Kayla and Whitney for Extemp. The same day that they go to state is the day that they are doing 4-H Day at the Tigers Football game, so I think we will get tickets and talk to the other families as well and see if they are interested. Next year Emily will be a Clover Kid and can do some things too!
We had our first softball win this week. When we ended the regulation time we were tied and had to go into another inning. The girl's managed to hold them to two runs and then cam back and scored to win. As Kayla said, "It feels good to win." It was been a long and frustrating season with rainouts and losses. But maybe we are on the up hill swinging.
Today was Presentation Day and Kayla was doing a demo on pork with a title of Super Bowl Appetizers. She did a good job. She thought she had it memorized well enough and got stuck at one point, but she recovered. She ended up with a purple and will go to the State Fair. She also got a blue on her table setting (luau birthday party), purple on judging and purple on her Extemp Speech and will go to state. I didn't really expect that but it will be fun. There are four girl's from our club that get to go to state. Leia and Taylor for prepared and Kayla and Whitney for Extemp. The same day that they go to state is the day that they are doing 4-H Day at the Tigers Football game, so I think we will get tickets and talk to the other families as well and see if they are interested. Next year Emily will be a Clover Kid and can do some things too!
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
So much happening...
Well, school is out and summer is here and that means things are in full swing. The girls are going to Karen house again, at least for the month of June then Alyssa may come and stay with them for July.
Kayla decided she didn't want a birthday party this year but wanted to invite some friends to spend the night. So Taylor, Maddie and Peyton came over and spend the night on a Fri after practice and then all day on Sat. They had a great time and they were really easy to watch. Most of the time was spent in the pool. Kayla came up to me that night before I went to bed and said thank you this is the best sleep over ever.
We are slowly working on Kayla's demo...it needs a lot of work in a week and half. She is doing a pork demo this year and focusing on appetizers.
Tonight was dance recital pics and our first softball game. Valerie meet us early to do the pics so that we could get to the game. Kayla went to the game in full makeup and we laught saying instead of a Diamond Darlin she was a Diamond Diva. She was able to come in a relieve to get the last girl to strike out but other than that is was an uneventful game for her. Which is unusal. However, there were several girls that did really well. Peyton had and awesome bunt and did really well as catcher.
Saturday is the dance recital and Erin and Kylie said that they would come and watch the girls. They are really special friends to give up there evening as two 20 somethings to be there for our girl's. We are blessed to have such good friends.
Kayla decided she didn't want a birthday party this year but wanted to invite some friends to spend the night. So Taylor, Maddie and Peyton came over and spend the night on a Fri after practice and then all day on Sat. They had a great time and they were really easy to watch. Most of the time was spent in the pool. Kayla came up to me that night before I went to bed and said thank you this is the best sleep over ever.
We are slowly working on Kayla's demo...it needs a lot of work in a week and half. She is doing a pork demo this year and focusing on appetizers.
Tonight was dance recital pics and our first softball game. Valerie meet us early to do the pics so that we could get to the game. Kayla went to the game in full makeup and we laught saying instead of a Diamond Darlin she was a Diamond Diva. She was able to come in a relieve to get the last girl to strike out but other than that is was an uneventful game for her. Which is unusal. However, there were several girls that did really well. Peyton had and awesome bunt and did really well as catcher.
Saturday is the dance recital and Erin and Kylie said that they would come and watch the girls. They are really special friends to give up there evening as two 20 somethings to be there for our girl's. We are blessed to have such good friends.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
End of Vacation in More Ways Than One!
We ended vacation having a great time as well. We did make it to Virginia Beach and the Cheasapeke Bay Bridge. Mom and Tim thought the bridge was cool, not so sure the girls cared. We went to a state park on the bay where the girls picked up shells, played in the cold wate and built sand castles. We had to beach to ourselves. We then went down to Virginia Beach, where is was much more crowded but had a great time playing chase with the waves. The waves were big and I didn't want the girls going out into the water so we would stay at the edge and let the waves hit us and come up to our knees. After the day at the beach we decided that NC was only 20 miles away and we should go there for dinner. However, traffic was bumper to bumper and it took us over an hour to get there...and we ended up eating at McDonald's!! It will at least make for a good memory and laugh.
We ended up going back to Norfolk the next day and touring Naticus and the Battleship Wisconsin. We also went to Cape Henry and toured a light house. Then hit a ice cream shop that mom had read about in a magazine and the ice cream and cone were amazing.
We then headed to DC. Our hotel was in a great location and right across from the Dunn-Loring Metro stop. The first day we did everything; Arlington, Lincoln, Jefferson, Washington, Vietnam, WW II, etc. We had tickets for the red double decker buses and that make everything easier and a lot more fun. We ended up staying for the night tour on the bus and it was wonderful.
The next day Tim was not feeling well and stayed behind but ended up calling when we were at the National Cathedral. Mom and the girl's ended up staying and doing DC while I went to be with Tim in the hospital. It ended up that he had pancreatist. They think a stone was left in there and it caused the pancreatist.
I did take mom and the girl's to see a few more thing and then on Monday sent them home on Amtrak while I stayed with Tim. Mom brought the girl's home on Wed and Kylie ended up staying with the girls on Thurs. Tim was released on Wed and we made it home on Friday. What and end to an awesome vacation.
We ended up going back to Norfolk the next day and touring Naticus and the Battleship Wisconsin. We also went to Cape Henry and toured a light house. Then hit a ice cream shop that mom had read about in a magazine and the ice cream and cone were amazing.
We then headed to DC. Our hotel was in a great location and right across from the Dunn-Loring Metro stop. The first day we did everything; Arlington, Lincoln, Jefferson, Washington, Vietnam, WW II, etc. We had tickets for the red double decker buses and that make everything easier and a lot more fun. We ended up staying for the night tour on the bus and it was wonderful.
The next day Tim was not feeling well and stayed behind but ended up calling when we were at the National Cathedral. Mom and the girl's ended up staying and doing DC while I went to be with Tim in the hospital. It ended up that he had pancreatist. They think a stone was left in there and it caused the pancreatist.
I did take mom and the girl's to see a few more thing and then on Monday sent them home on Amtrak while I stayed with Tim. Mom brought the girl's home on Wed and Kylie ended up staying with the girls on Thurs. Tim was released on Wed and we made it home on Friday. What and end to an awesome vacation.
Monday, May 3, 2010
Williamsburg, Jamesport and Yorktown
We have had a faboulous time so far in the Williamsburg area. Now the Colony of Williamsburg was a disappointment in that if you don't buy their $50 tickets there is very little that you can see or do. But it seems like most of it is just shops. The Merchant Market area has shops that are unique but way too pricey.
We have also gone to Jamesport and Yorktown and have really enjoyed both of them. We were able to both of these locations for $20..a much better price and way better experience. They did have reinactors that were more than willing to talk to us and explain things to the girls. It was great and they got to touch, feel and try on all kinds of things.
Some new things that they also got to experience was a ferry across the James River, trolley ride around York and playing in the sand on the beach at York.
We also have played in the pool and end each evening with ice cream and phase 10.
Tomorrow we may go to Virginia Beach and the Chesapeake Bay Bridge.
We have also gone to Jamesport and Yorktown and have really enjoyed both of them. We were able to both of these locations for $20..a much better price and way better experience. They did have reinactors that were more than willing to talk to us and explain things to the girls. It was great and they got to touch, feel and try on all kinds of things.
Some new things that they also got to experience was a ferry across the James River, trolley ride around York and playing in the sand on the beach at York.
We also have played in the pool and end each evening with ice cream and phase 10.
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Monticello
Today we made it into Virginia. Drove through part of the Applaichine Mts, a little windy but pretty. I think it would be really awesome in the fall witht he changing of the leaves.
We were planning on heading straight to Williamsburg so that we could get settled and check out the town, however we took a three hour detour to Monticello. It was a good detour! The girl's needed a break from the drive and since we didn't really have anything planned we changed thing's up and stopped. The house and grounds were beautiful and very interesting. We had an awesome tour guide that really enjoyed what she was doing. Kayla took lots of pixs of everything. The weather is great, the high was in the 90's today and it is suppose to be 99 tomorrow. It doesn't feel that hot at all, it feels perfect. We will freeze when we go back to MO and it is only 70.
We found the resort without a problem thanks to Tom Tom, Felipe or Jose...haven't decided what the GPS name should be. :) Mom and I then headed to Wal-mart to buy food for part of the week. I was exhausted and didn't feel at all like cooking when we got back so I stopped at KFC and bought a bucket of chicken. I did throw together garlic bread and mashed potatoes and called it good.
She girl's and mom are in bed in their room with the tv on and Tim and I are in the living room...I am fading fast and will hit the bed very soon.
Here area few pixs from today:
We were planning on heading straight to Williamsburg so that we could get settled and check out the town, however we took a three hour detour to Monticello. It was a good detour! The girl's needed a break from the drive and since we didn't really have anything planned we changed thing's up and stopped. The house and grounds were beautiful and very interesting. We had an awesome tour guide that really enjoyed what she was doing. Kayla took lots of pixs of everything. The weather is great, the high was in the 90's today and it is suppose to be 99 tomorrow. It doesn't feel that hot at all, it feels perfect. We will freeze when we go back to MO and it is only 70.
We found the resort without a problem thanks to Tom Tom, Felipe or Jose...haven't decided what the GPS name should be. :) Mom and I then headed to Wal-mart to buy food for part of the week. I was exhausted and didn't feel at all like cooking when we got back so I stopped at KFC and bought a bucket of chicken. I did throw together garlic bread and mashed potatoes and called it good.
She girl's and mom are in bed in their room with the tv on and Tim and I are in the living room...I am fading fast and will hit the bed very soon.
Here area few pixs from today:
West Virginia
Well 10 hours later we are now in WV. We left mom's at 6:00 this morning and got here about 6:00 this evening with the time change. It was an easy drive and I did all the driving. The last 15 miles was one lane road construction and at times we were at a dead stop but that was it.
We stopped by Santa Claus, Indiana because we were doing pretty good on time. Went to two stores and took pictures of the girl's in front of the different Santas. It was a nice break.
Had lunch in a park in Louisville, Ky. I don't think it was in the best part of town but it was a park that we saw from the Hwy. The grass wasn't cut very well and the playground was not in great repair. But we had lunch and the girl's played for a little bit, looked at the river and we were on our way again.
We did have to stop at a roadside park once because I was too tired to keep driving. But we splashed water on the faces, blew bubbles and had races to the trees....and I was once again awake and ready to drive. I must admit though, I hope Tim feels up to driving on the way home.
Kayla has been blogging and is very excited about all the comments everyone has made. There are lots of people following her and that is pretty cool. Most folks are from church but she did get a comment last night from a freind at school.
Tomorrow we will drive into Williamsburg!
We stopped by Santa Claus, Indiana because we were doing pretty good on time. Went to two stores and took pictures of the girl's in front of the different Santas. It was a nice break.
Had lunch in a park in Louisville, Ky. I don't think it was in the best part of town but it was a park that we saw from the Hwy. The grass wasn't cut very well and the playground was not in great repair. But we had lunch and the girl's played for a little bit, looked at the river and we were on our way again.
We did have to stop at a roadside park once because I was too tired to keep driving. But we splashed water on the faces, blew bubbles and had races to the trees....and I was once again awake and ready to drive. I must admit though, I hope Tim feels up to driving on the way home.
Kayla has been blogging and is very excited about all the comments everyone has made. There are lots of people following her and that is pretty cool. Most folks are from church but she did get a comment last night from a freind at school.
Tomorrow we will drive into Williamsburg!
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Talent Show and Surgery
Friday night was the Shawnee Talent Show and Kayla did a mime presentation to I Can Only Imagine by Mercy Me. She had learned the routine through AIM and was one she could do by herself and she did a fantastic job. She was excited about doing it a received lots of compliments afterwards, even from people she didn't know. I think it is so awesome that she is willing to witness to her friends, parents and the community through her presentation. I am not sure she even realized what a big deal it was. I am very proud of her.
Tomorrow Tim has gallbladder surgery. I am so glad it is getting done, wish it had been last week. So, we will take the girl's to school and head up to the city. Kayla will then get off the bus at Diane's house for piano practice and then Diane will take her to softball practice. Susan is picking Emily up and will take both of them home with her after practice. We will pick them up there or they can spend the night if they need to.
Tomorrow Tim has gallbladder surgery. I am so glad it is getting done, wish it had been last week. So, we will take the girl's to school and head up to the city. Kayla will then get off the bus at Diane's house for piano practice and then Diane will take her to softball practice. Susan is picking Emily up and will take both of them home with her after practice. We will pick them up there or they can spend the night if they need to.
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Misson Clinton Clothes Closet
Today was our first Mission Clinton Clothes Closet and it was a huge succees. There were about 40 vouchers handed out for ladies and kids to come and pick out two new outfits including shoes and jewlery. We had at least 25 folks come and "shop." We wanted people to be comfortable and have fun and I think we accomplished that. If nothing else, we had fun! People were so appreciative of getting new clothes. The younger ones were really thankful and excited...and that was so cool.
Last night Kayla spent the night with Peyton and they sleeped out in the camper in the front yard. She said she got a little cold, it got down to 41 but she had a good time. The roasted marshmellows and had smores.
Tim is going to see a surgeon on Wed about his gall bladder. Hopefully, he will be able to have surgery this week because on the 29th we will be leaving for Williamsburg. I am so excited about getting away and especially about taking the girls and my mom to DC...however, I haven't even thought about packing. Kayla has one more book report to do and she will be all done with her reading circle certificate. She has to do another non-fiction and we have a book about DC, so we are hoping to get it started tomorrow. The great news is that Tim talked to Mrs. Williams about homework while we are gone and she said that as long as Kayla does her blog and maybe give a talk when she gets back, that is all she would have to do. So thankful we are going in May and she is a straight A student!!
Last night Kayla spent the night with Peyton and they sleeped out in the camper in the front yard. She said she got a little cold, it got down to 41 but she had a good time. The roasted marshmellows and had smores.
Tim is going to see a surgeon on Wed about his gall bladder. Hopefully, he will be able to have surgery this week because on the 29th we will be leaving for Williamsburg. I am so excited about getting away and especially about taking the girls and my mom to DC...however, I haven't even thought about packing. Kayla has one more book report to do and she will be all done with her reading circle certificate. She has to do another non-fiction and we have a book about DC, so we are hoping to get it started tomorrow. The great news is that Tim talked to Mrs. Williams about homework while we are gone and she said that as long as Kayla does her blog and maybe give a talk when she gets back, that is all she would have to do. So thankful we are going in May and she is a straight A student!!
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Easter and Rummage Sale
Easter weekend was a busy weekend. We started with Good friday service at church. I has a reading to do and Kayla and Tim walked with incense. The next day we went to Branson with the church to see the musical Noah. We had gotten really cheap tickets through the Voth's. It was a good show, I'm not sure it would be worth the $52 tickets that are the regular price. Mom and Jacque came down and meet us as well. On the way down we down Tim was able to help an older couple that had a flat tire. It was such a new vehicle that the man didn't even know how to get the tire down.
The next day was Easter and all of the Taylor's plus some came to our house, we ended up with over 30 people here. Thankfully, it was a beautiful day and some were able to eat outside and the kid's were able to play outside. They has bubbles going, and Easter egg hunt, kite's flying and just playing. It was a very long day. We started with sunrise service and Mom Taylor went with us. Tim and I has gotten up early to put the ham in the oven...turned our clock thought it was smarter than us and had reset itself for day light savings time. So instead of being up at 4:50 we were up at 3:50! But over all it was a good day.
Today was the rummage sale at school and I am exhausted. It is a lot of work for three days and not a lot of help. We only made $348 dollars this year compared the to $900 last year. We really need to think of a new idea and some way to get more parents involved. It seems like it is the same ones every year.
Kayla went to a math contest today. She didn't place but I was very proud of her for trying something new.
Now we are all relaxing, and playing the wii.
The next day was Easter and all of the Taylor's plus some came to our house, we ended up with over 30 people here. Thankfully, it was a beautiful day and some were able to eat outside and the kid's were able to play outside. They has bubbles going, and Easter egg hunt, kite's flying and just playing. It was a very long day. We started with sunrise service and Mom Taylor went with us. Tim and I has gotten up early to put the ham in the oven...turned our clock thought it was smarter than us and had reset itself for day light savings time. So instead of being up at 4:50 we were up at 3:50! But over all it was a good day.
Today was the rummage sale at school and I am exhausted. It is a lot of work for three days and not a lot of help. We only made $348 dollars this year compared the to $900 last year. We really need to think of a new idea and some way to get more parents involved. It seems like it is the same ones every year.
Kayla went to a math contest today. She didn't place but I was very proud of her for trying something new.
Now we are all relaxing, and playing the wii.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
A Week In Review
It's been a busy week and the weekend isn't looking much better!
Kayla's basketball team is playing in the Leeton tournamanet this week. tuesday night we played Leeton and won. Last night we played CCA and we lost, although it was closer than it was in Dec. Tonight we play Lakeland for 3/4 place. I think we will have a shot, although their girls's are certainly taller.
This week Emily had an accident. She was between two lunch tables at Shawnee and was swinging and bit it. She fell flat on her face and busted up her mouth. She still has her teeth but I think the two front ones will be out soon. It looks yucky.
Tonight we have the 4-H Carnival as well. So we have been doing some baking last night and will head there after the game. Our club is having an air hockey booth and a tattoo booth.
Kayla's basketball team is playing in the Leeton tournamanet this week. tuesday night we played Leeton and won. Last night we played CCA and we lost, although it was closer than it was in Dec. Tonight we play Lakeland for 3/4 place. I think we will have a shot, although their girls's are certainly taller.
This week Emily had an accident. She was between two lunch tables at Shawnee and was swinging and bit it. She fell flat on her face and busted up her mouth. She still has her teeth but I think the two front ones will be out soon. It looks yucky.
Tonight we have the 4-H Carnival as well. So we have been doing some baking last night and will head there after the game. Our club is having an air hockey booth and a tattoo booth.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
First Day of Spring.....and it Snows!
Yes, today is the first day of spring and it snowed.....and is still snowing! Tim was suppose to go to school board training this weekend but only got to Higginsville yesterday before getting the call that he would have to snow plow today. So he turned around and came home. The good news is that we finally go tthe entire garage cleaned out and it looks great. We worked on it all day but it is finally done.
Today the girl's and I headed to Clinton in between bursts of snow. Kayla hung out at Wal-mart for a few hours trying to sell 4-H Raffle tickets. Emily and I did some errands and went to the library and checked out books. She got four Curious George books and five Clifford books. I think I have read five of them today! We went to McDonald's today so that we could have lunch and reload her McDonald's card. She likes the idea of paying for her own food. So, I bought mine, reloaded her card and then she ordered her's and paid.
Silver Dollar City opened this weekend and we were going to try and go down...obviously that didn't happen. Snow is suppoe to continue all night tonight. We have at least 6 inches now and another 2-4 on the way. Tim has already decide that the girl's and I are skipping church tomorrow. We weren't terribly productive today, maybe tomorrow will be better.
Today the girl's and I headed to Clinton in between bursts of snow. Kayla hung out at Wal-mart for a few hours trying to sell 4-H Raffle tickets. Emily and I did some errands and went to the library and checked out books. She got four Curious George books and five Clifford books. I think I have read five of them today! We went to McDonald's today so that we could have lunch and reload her McDonald's card. She likes the idea of paying for her own food. So, I bought mine, reloaded her card and then she ordered her's and paid.
Silver Dollar City opened this weekend and we were going to try and go down...obviously that didn't happen. Snow is suppoe to continue all night tonight. We have at least 6 inches now and another 2-4 on the way. Tim has already decide that the girl's and I are skipping church tomorrow. We weren't terribly productive today, maybe tomorrow will be better.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Another busy day...
This morning started off with Kindergarten Screening. I failed and Emily passed :) I forgot the birth certificate and ss card, went past the x on the paper and totally forgot to fillout out another paper. I think I was having a blond morning! Fortunately, Emily did much better. The speech teacher did recommend that she be seen at the speech clinic on campus to see if she has tongue thrust. So the first thing I did when I got to work was make and appointment, I am so glad I did because there are only two times left for the rest of the semester, I would have had to wait until the fal but I was able to score the April 7th time slot. I was also able to schedule her to get her kindergarten shots that same day. Should be fun!!
Today at the office we went bowling at the annual Bowling for the Green. I didn't do very well at all but we had fun and it got us out of the office. Tonight was a hurried night at home. Kayla was frustrated and crying over her math homework...she just wasn't getting subtracting and adding time on a clock. She finally figured it out, but I am not sure she totally gets it.
Then it was off to basketball practice and PTO meeting. After the PTO meeting there was a magician to do a show. The 5th-8th graders were able to also have a part in the show. They were pretty good. Afterward he went out in the parking lot and did things with fire. It was a gorgious night and he did a great job. It was a good night.
Today at the office we went bowling at the annual Bowling for the Green. I didn't do very well at all but we had fun and it got us out of the office. Tonight was a hurried night at home. Kayla was frustrated and crying over her math homework...she just wasn't getting subtracting and adding time on a clock. She finally figured it out, but I am not sure she totally gets it.
Then it was off to basketball practice and PTO meeting. After the PTO meeting there was a magician to do a show. The 5th-8th graders were able to also have a part in the show. They were pretty good. Afterward he went out in the parking lot and did things with fire. It was a gorgious night and he did a great job. It was a good night.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
St. Patrick's Day or Peter Pan Day??
We were watching the news to see what the weather would be like today before heading out to church. As they put the calendar up for the week they had a leprechon on Wed for St. Pat's Day, to which Emily proudly announces, "Look mom, Wed is Peter Pan Day!" Hey, why not!
Friday, March 12, 2010
Playing the wii, snapping, whistling and missing Kayla
Tim, Emily and I are playing the wii tonight and listening to how great Emily is doing at snapping her finger's and whistling. She has been working very hard on this. The snapping came first because they sing a song at school called Days of the Week and it goes to the tune of the Adam's Family song. She didn't think it was good that only the teacher's could snap, so she was determined to learn as well. For weeks now we have been able to easily find her in the house....just listen for the snap. :) Now we are on to whistling. She is proud to say she is now the only one that can whistle. Quite some accomplishments for a 5 yr old :)
Sitting here typing and missing my Kayla. She is spending the night with her friend Abby. I really miss my girl's when they are gone. I am sure she is having a great time. Abby is a sweet, shy friend that is a 3rd grader. The great thing about it is that her and Kayla have really connected because of their love for Jesus. The other day when they did their speeches on their hero's, Abby choose Jesus and Kayla choose Moses. They hasn't even talked about it. Two girl's with sweet, kind hearts.
Sitting here typing and missing my Kayla. She is spending the night with her friend Abby. I really miss my girl's when they are gone. I am sure she is having a great time. Abby is a sweet, shy friend that is a 3rd grader. The great thing about it is that her and Kayla have really connected because of their love for Jesus. The other day when they did their speeches on their hero's, Abby choose Jesus and Kayla choose Moses. They hasn't even talked about it. Two girl's with sweet, kind hearts.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Things They Say....
Emily is on the floor with Kayla and the label maker. She is spelling the word Kayla typed...magazine...and then say's she spelled magnificent!
Earlier she kept asking if she could steer....the laptop (aka mouse) and then wanted to steer the wii (aka remote).
I love remembering the funny things they say.
When Kayla was little she knew the the difference between doe's and buck's...the daddy deer's have sticks in their heads!
Earlier she kept asking if she could steer....the laptop (aka mouse) and then wanted to steer the wii (aka remote).
I love remembering the funny things they say.
When Kayla was little she knew the the difference between doe's and buck's...the daddy deer's have sticks in their heads!
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Good Day....of Doing Nothing...and Everything
Today the girl's and I actually had nothing to do! What a concept. Tim went with Tim Loyd and some other guy's at church to go shooting done at Ozark and out to eat at Lambert's. But the girl's and I had no plans whatsoever.
So, we began by sleeping in of course. Followed by breakfast of bacon and eggs...my favorite. We then played the Wii together for awhile. Emily was itching to get outside, since it was suppose to be a nice day today. So, we put together her t-ball set she got for her birthday including the tee and the throwback net. The girl's spent some time hitting and throwing, while I checked on the trees we planted last year. They aren't real tall but it seems like most of them are pretty sturdy...and in 60 years from now we might be able to sit under them :).
The girl's then decided it was time to go swing. I think they were swinging for almost an hour. I would push Emily and the girl's would talk about anything. It was at that moment that I was like...this is what life should be like. Day's with nothing to do but go out a hit a ball and swing on the swing set. While swinging they decided they wanted to make a puppets and a stage. So we came in and they each made a sock puppet. Then they used a big box to make the stage and a piece of material taped to it, to be a curtain. They did a couple of skits for me. Too funny.
Emily is now sleeping and Kayla and I have been brainstorming demonstration ideas, blogging and now piano practice. It has been a good day. I have steaks out thawing and grilling is in order for such a nice day!
So, we began by sleeping in of course. Followed by breakfast of bacon and eggs...my favorite. We then played the Wii together for awhile. Emily was itching to get outside, since it was suppose to be a nice day today. So, we put together her t-ball set she got for her birthday including the tee and the throwback net. The girl's spent some time hitting and throwing, while I checked on the trees we planted last year. They aren't real tall but it seems like most of them are pretty sturdy...and in 60 years from now we might be able to sit under them :).
The girl's then decided it was time to go swing. I think they were swinging for almost an hour. I would push Emily and the girl's would talk about anything. It was at that moment that I was like...this is what life should be like. Day's with nothing to do but go out a hit a ball and swing on the swing set. While swinging they decided they wanted to make a puppets and a stage. So we came in and they each made a sock puppet. Then they used a big box to make the stage and a piece of material taped to it, to be a curtain. They did a couple of skits for me. Too funny.
Emily is now sleeping and Kayla and I have been brainstorming demonstration ideas, blogging and now piano practice. It has been a good day. I have steaks out thawing and grilling is in order for such a nice day!
Friday, March 5, 2010
Mom's Against the Girl's and Dad's Against the Boy's
Tonight we finished up the official basketball season with a game of girl's against mom's and boy's against dad's. What a ton of fun! Sherri, Shawn, Gloria, Pam, Tonya, Lori, Nancy, Beth, Tiffany and myself played. Thankfully we had ten so we could switch in and out easily and none us hyperventalited! John's dad was the ref and I think he had a great time. He may have been a little one side and that the girl's always got the ball but it was funny. We had a great time!
The boy's game went well too, John, Tim, Andy, Brad, Eric W, Eric S, Wesley and Mr. McGrew. For the most part the parents were not experienced basketball players but we made up in pure height. In fact Lowell called a couple of height fouls....what the heck? Too funny.
Good night, great memories!
The boy's game went well too, John, Tim, Andy, Brad, Eric W, Eric S, Wesley and Mr. McGrew. For the most part the parents were not experienced basketball players but we made up in pure height. In fact Lowell called a couple of height fouls....what the heck? Too funny.
Good night, great memories!
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Swimming Done and Friend Over
Tonight was the last night of swim lessons. Emily, Jordan and Chezney all passed their levels and will move up...hopefully we can get them in this summer. Jordan missed the last two nights because she was sick and Emily missed having her buddy in her class. Tonight Emily did very well on her test. She just loves the water. She was even fetching things from the bottom of the lazy river!
Tonight Chez came home with us since Mallory is haivng her district basketball tournament in Driksill. They had a good time playing together and are now snuggled in bed together.
Tonight Chez came home with us since Mallory is haivng her district basketball tournament in Driksill. They had a good time playing together and are now snuggled in bed together.
Saturday, February 27, 2010
We Won In Overtime!!
Wow, today was a close game...too close. We started off down by 5 then we lead by 6 then we ended up tied! Sherri, Shawn and I had quite the cardo workout from yelling and cheering. We were wiped out after the game. ha ha The girl's had to play a 2 min overtime and with 36 seconds left they scored and then held them....it was a long 2 min but they did a fantastic job! They were so excited when they won and so were we!! Driskill's, Harper's, Schmidli's and us went to DQ to celebrate. What a great time!
Kayla is at Erin's house this evening and is spending the night. The Turley girl's are joining them too. Erin is such a great SS teacher and is dearly loved by the girl's and us. We consider her part of our family.
Emily and Tim are now curled up on the couch and Emily just announced she wants to be mom and a teacher when she grows up. Good thing to know!! :)
Kayla is at Erin's house this evening and is spending the night. The Turley girl's are joining them too. Erin is such a great SS teacher and is dearly loved by the girl's and us. We consider her part of our family.
Emily and Tim are now curled up on the couch and Emily just announced she wants to be mom and a teacher when she grows up. Good thing to know!! :)
Monday, February 22, 2010
Foot Dr., Swimming and playing...
Today was a busy afternoon.I picked Kayla up early from school to see a podiatrist. Her right arch has been hurting her for the past couple of months, especially after basketball practice/games and dance class. He did x-rays and the whole bit and it turns out it is the same thing her knee was last summer....growing pains. I good say ugh but I am just thankful she is healthy and growing....I will take that any day!
We picked up Emily and came home briefly. Then Kayla was off to piano lessons. Kayla isn't exactly enjoying piano lessons but she is really good at it. Diane is so impressed with how well she is doing and is always saying she can tell she is really practicing during the week. I guess I really shouldn't mention that really the only days she for sure practice's is Sat and Sun. As well as she does I wish she enjoyed it more.
Emily started swim lessons again tonight. They rearranged all the classes so we weren't sure what classes to put her in. She passed level 1 last year and I decided to put her in level 1 again because of her age and her size. Jordan and Chezney are taking lessons too. Jordan and Emily are in the same class and had a ton of fun tonight. But swim lessons will keep us hopping for the next two weeks.
We picked up Emily and came home briefly. Then Kayla was off to piano lessons. Kayla isn't exactly enjoying piano lessons but she is really good at it. Diane is so impressed with how well she is doing and is always saying she can tell she is really practicing during the week. I guess I really shouldn't mention that really the only days she for sure practice's is Sat and Sun. As well as she does I wish she enjoyed it more.
Emily started swim lessons again tonight. They rearranged all the classes so we weren't sure what classes to put her in. She passed level 1 last year and I decided to put her in level 1 again because of her age and her size. Jordan and Chezney are taking lessons too. Jordan and Emily are in the same class and had a ton of fun tonight. But swim lessons will keep us hopping for the next two weeks.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
We Played With Boys....
Tonight we played BB against Leesville. We thought it was a co-ed team but it was an all boys team. The girl's were not excited. We know the coach and their center because we all go to church together. The girl's did really well and held their own. They were a little slow getting starteed and that put us behind but it didn't last long and they realized that they could keep up and beat the boys. We ended up losing 24-16 but it was a good game. Kayla got lots of rebounds tonight and made a couple of shots. We play them again next week and I think it may be a different game. If the girl's come out strong we may have a chance. I will let you know in a week!!
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
My Baby is 5 yrs old Today
Today is officially Emily's birthday and she is 5 yrs old. I say to her that my baby is 5 and she is quick to correct me that she is not a baby, she is a big girl! My Emily makes me laugh. She is mischievious and my dare devil. She is sassy and likes to tease, although her smile will give her away. She is very good at imaginary play and loves to cheer as well. She likes to give kisses and will sit in your lap with her hands on your face and gently kiss you cheek, nose, cheek and then lips. She will kiss you over and over again. She loves it when you read her a book and she can't wait for swim lessons and t-ball to start.
I love my Emily!!! Happy Birthday my sweet little girl, I pray that you will continue to be my bright, healthy, fiesty little girl that never changes. I have no doubt that God has big plans for you. I love you!
I love my Emily!!! Happy Birthday my sweet little girl, I pray that you will continue to be my bright, healthy, fiesty little girl that never changes. I have no doubt that God has big plans for you. I love you!
Busy Day Takes on New Meaning
Yesterday was a marathon day to say the least. We started off sending Tim off to KC with James to pick up a wrecked car and truck that we bought....a whole other story but the plan is to have our car and truck (the ones not wreck) up and running again by Nov.
We went and picked up Emily's friend Breanna at 9:30 so that they could watch a movie before the birthday party....we put the movie in but I'm not sure how much was watched. We then had a quick lunch and headed out for the day. We started by picking up Kennedy and Chezney, went to Blue Ribobn bakery to pick-up the cake (cupcakes shaped like a crown) and then headed to the bowling alley.
We had five little ones for Emily's party and eleven big ones for Taylor's party. We bowled one game then went to the party room to open presents and have cake and ice cream. Then went back for another round on the lanes. The little ones lasted about half way through the second game and then they were done. We ended up leaving the bowling alley at 4:00.
The race was now on! Take all the girl's home, stop by the house to get basketball clothes, went to piano practice, headed to the school or a game...turned out to be two games. Home at 8:30 which is bedtime and we hadn't had supper! Quickly, ate and went to bed. Tim thought I was nuts for going to bed at 9:30 but I was completely exhausted....turned out he was too, and was in bed before 10 himself.
The ballgames were so much better than expected. We were playing Crest Ridge and was expecting to get slaughtered. We first played their 3/4 grade team. We only had 5 players show up but they sucked it up and played the entire game and won! The score was like 20-8 it was amazing. We then played their 5 grade team. So it was our 3, 5th grade girls and our 3 4th grade girl's....that had just played an entire 40 minutes without subs. Well, when Crest Ridge 5th graders stepped on the court it was like looking at Golly Green Giants. I mean I am sure that at least one was implanted with Ralgrow. Our girl's did remarkable given the situation. We didn't win (24-12) but the fact that we were in the game was huge. I just wish we could play those six girl's all the time against some of our other teams...I think we would have a different season.
We went and picked up Emily's friend Breanna at 9:30 so that they could watch a movie before the birthday party....we put the movie in but I'm not sure how much was watched. We then had a quick lunch and headed out for the day. We started by picking up Kennedy and Chezney, went to Blue Ribobn bakery to pick-up the cake (cupcakes shaped like a crown) and then headed to the bowling alley. We had five little ones for Emily's party and eleven big ones for Taylor's party. We bowled one game then went to the party room to open presents and have cake and ice cream. Then went back for another round on the lanes. The little ones lasted about half way through the second game and then they were done. We ended up leaving the bowling alley at 4:00.
The race was now on! Take all the girl's home, stop by the house to get basketball clothes, went to piano practice, headed to the school or a game...turned out to be two games. Home at 8:30 which is bedtime and we hadn't had supper! Quickly, ate and went to bed. Tim thought I was nuts for going to bed at 9:30 but I was completely exhausted....turned out he was too, and was in bed before 10 himself.
The ballgames were so much better than expected. We were playing Crest Ridge and was expecting to get slaughtered. We first played their 3/4 grade team. We only had 5 players show up but they sucked it up and played the entire game and won! The score was like 20-8 it was amazing. We then played their 5 grade team. So it was our 3, 5th grade girls and our 3 4th grade girl's....that had just played an entire 40 minutes without subs. Well, when Crest Ridge 5th graders stepped on the court it was like looking at Golly Green Giants. I mean I am sure that at least one was implanted with Ralgrow. Our girl's did remarkable given the situation. We didn't win (24-12) but the fact that we were in the game was huge. I just wish we could play those six girl's all the time against some of our other teams...I think we would have a different season.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Getting Ready for the Party
Tomorrow we are doing a party for Emily. I was playing on just having her friend Brianna over for the day but plans changed and we are now doing a bowling party. Taylor is having her party tomorrow as well and since four of Taylor's friends have younger siblings that are the same age as Emily we are going to do a party too. Same time, same place and hopefully it will all work out well. We are still going to go pick up Brianna early tomorrow morning so that her and Emily can watch the Princess Peagusis movie that they wanted to watch and then we will head to bowling in the afternoon.
Then we will get back in time to get Kayla to piano practice and basketball game tomorrow night...crazy :)
Tim is headed to KC tomorrow with the help of James to get the car and truck that we bought to tear apart and hopefully get ours working...confused....let's just hope it works.
Then we will get back in time to get Kayla to piano practice and basketball game tomorrow night...crazy :)
Tim is headed to KC tomorrow with the help of James to get the car and truck that we bought to tear apart and hopefully get ours working...confused....let's just hope it works.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Valentine's Are Done and Moses is Someone We Admire
This week has been a blur and I finally have tiem to sit down and blog, the girl's are in bed and Tim is at a school board meeting...so right now it is quiet.
Tuesday evening we skipped dance class because we had done nothing on the race cars that were need for Awana on Wed. Tim quickly cut them in to a shape and the girl's painted them. On Wed night they had fun but the cars didn't do so well. Kayla's car did at least cross the finish line...Emily's not so much. I asked Emily if she was having fun and she said yes but that her car was the slowest. :(
Tonight was basketball practice and a Pampered Chef party at school. I couldn't belive it but Pampered Chef only offered 10% to the school for the fundraiser! What a crock! I wrote the school a check as a donation and didn't buy a thing. I figured they would get way more that way then they would if I bought something. What a rip!
Kayla also had to work on a speech. Her topic this time was "Someone You Admire." When I asked who she wanted to talk about, she said Moses. OK...didn't see that one coming. But she wrote out her outline and said she admired him because he was brave, kind and he listened to God. She gave examples of each and easily made it over her two minute time period. I love it that she thinks nothing of picking out a biblical person as someone she admires! What a testimony...and she doesn't even realize it. I love her heart. She even talked about the Moses didn't always listen to God and that because of that he wasn't allowed to into the Promised Land. She said sometime, she is like Moses and needs to listen to God more. I think she is listening....more than she knows. I pray that God blesses her tomorrow and that it is his words not hers that her friends hear.
Tim heads to Springfield in the morning and will be there until Sat evening for school board training. Kayla has a game on Sat. and it is againt the gray team which is suppose to be rough...we will see. After this game we have two easy games to end the season and that will be good.
Tuesday evening we skipped dance class because we had done nothing on the race cars that were need for Awana on Wed. Tim quickly cut them in to a shape and the girl's painted them. On Wed night they had fun but the cars didn't do so well. Kayla's car did at least cross the finish line...Emily's not so much. I asked Emily if she was having fun and she said yes but that her car was the slowest. :(
Tonight was basketball practice and a Pampered Chef party at school. I couldn't belive it but Pampered Chef only offered 10% to the school for the fundraiser! What a crock! I wrote the school a check as a donation and didn't buy a thing. I figured they would get way more that way then they would if I bought something. What a rip!
Kayla also had to work on a speech. Her topic this time was "Someone You Admire." When I asked who she wanted to talk about, she said Moses. OK...didn't see that one coming. But she wrote out her outline and said she admired him because he was brave, kind and he listened to God. She gave examples of each and easily made it over her two minute time period. I love it that she thinks nothing of picking out a biblical person as someone she admires! What a testimony...and she doesn't even realize it. I love her heart. She even talked about the Moses didn't always listen to God and that because of that he wasn't allowed to into the Promised Land. She said sometime, she is like Moses and needs to listen to God more. I think she is listening....more than she knows. I pray that God blesses her tomorrow and that it is his words not hers that her friends hear.
Tim heads to Springfield in the morning and will be there until Sat evening for school board training. Kayla has a game on Sat. and it is againt the gray team which is suppose to be rough...we will see. After this game we have two easy games to end the season and that will be good.
Friday, February 5, 2010
Snowing and Giggling
Well....it is STILL snowing!! Tim had to go in again tonight with not much sleep. He got about 4 hours and then went to pick up Kayla so that she could clean the house. Came home and tried to go back to sleep only to be woke up by numerous phone calls indicating the Emily's school was releasing early due to snow. So, he is off and at work, praying that the snow ends soon.
The giggling is from four little girls...ok, two big girl's (Kay and Tay) and two little girl's (Em and Jordan). The girl's are having a sleepover and so far are having a ton of fun. The play room is an absolute disaster, they have made poster's for the bake sale tomorrow and are now playing on the wii...and in between everything they are wrestling...I think I may be the one in for a long night :) So glad Susan and I have girl's the same age...I think they will be good friend's for life!
The giggling is from four little girls...ok, two big girl's (Kay and Tay) and two little girl's (Em and Jordan). The girl's are having a sleepover and so far are having a ton of fun. The play room is an absolute disaster, they have made poster's for the bake sale tomorrow and are now playing on the wii...and in between everything they are wrestling...I think I may be the one in for a long night :) So glad Susan and I have girl's the same age...I think they will be good friend's for life!
Thursday, February 4, 2010
I am soooo done with snow!!
The weatherman is predicting more snow...for the nest three days! I am soooo done with snow! If was financially able to stay home with the girl's and watch the gently falling snow, I might be on board. But I really do not like driving in it and even worse, I hate being cold. I will take 110 degrees in the shade over snow any day.
Tim is at home today...in theory sleeping so that he can go into work tonight. Of course, as of right now (mid-afternoon) there isn't a flake to be seen. I really do not like it when Tim works nights. I don't sleep nearly as well when he is gone.
6 more weeks to spring.....
Tim is at home today...in theory sleeping so that he can go into work tonight. Of course, as of right now (mid-afternoon) there isn't a flake to be seen. I really do not like it when Tim works nights. I don't sleep nearly as well when he is gone.
6 more weeks to spring.....
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Friends Through It All
Well last night was the basketball game that I was dreading. We played Leeton. Leeton is the neighboring school and Kayla knows everyone on the team really well. We played basketball on the same team with a couple of them last year and all of them were on her softball team. There was no doubt that it would be a close game. There was a little bit of a rivalry going on. I wasn't sure how the girls would do playing each other. Would it be a giggle fest? Would feelings get hurt when they had to fight for the ball? Would they be mad at each other at the end of the game? One of the first plays of the game had Kayla and Taylor fighting over the ball....I waited as they got up and thankfully no tears, no fists, still playing. It was a nail biter and we ended up losing 8-10. I must admit I was pretty bummed and felt like the coach didn't put the right five girls out there at the right time. But such is life. Kayla got in the car and simply said, "Where we going to eat?" She was positive and the lose against friends didn't seem to bother her. Granted, we made sure to talk before hand about how those girls were our friends before the game and they would be when we stepped off the court. But during those 40 minutes on the court it was game on. Since she was so positive after the game I purposely choose not to go to any restaurant that I thought other team members would be at (ours or theirs). There was no need to replay the game for another hour. For a girl who stresses pretty easy....I had her beat on this one. Unfortunately, Tim had to leave before the game was over to go and snow plow. I am so done with snow.
Today was the 4-H Energizer in Blue Springs and we were planning on hanging out with the Crook's all day. Yep, Kayla and Taylor played a tough game against each other last night and then hung out together today...all is well! Emily and Jordan did Clover Kid's activities all day and had a great time making snacks and crafts. Susan and I learned some things to share with our club and just had a great time hanging out. It is so nice to have such a good friend that that our girl's are the same age....we are going to be stuck together for a long time, and that is a good thing! Kayla also received her medal for being in the top five in the region for her MRF!!
I also got to see some former co-workers. Some of the best co-workers anyone could ask for and I do miss the camaraderie!!
Today was the 4-H Energizer in Blue Springs and we were planning on hanging out with the Crook's all day. Yep, Kayla and Taylor played a tough game against each other last night and then hung out together today...all is well! Emily and Jordan did Clover Kid's activities all day and had a great time making snacks and crafts. Susan and I learned some things to share with our club and just had a great time hanging out. It is so nice to have such a good friend that that our girl's are the same age....we are going to be stuck together for a long time, and that is a good thing! Kayla also received her medal for being in the top five in the region for her MRF!!
I also got to see some former co-workers. Some of the best co-workers anyone could ask for and I do miss the camaraderie!!
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Busy, good day...
Today we had everything going on....Angel Food in the morning and starting at 4:00 am just makes for a very long day. But the good news is it wasn't terribly cold and it didn't rain or snow so that makes sliding boxes much more enjoyable.
Kayla had another basketball game today. It wasn't one of her personal best games but the team works very well together and when one has an off day another one picks up the slack. We won 22-10. It is unbelievable how much better we are playing this year, compared to last year.
We then went over to Kim and Greg's to help with some wireless issues...actually Tim helped, the girl's and I just took turns holding baby Mallory. She is just too precious!
After that we decided to head back over to the gym to watch the Leeton team play. We know all the girl's on that team because we play softball with them. It was fun to watch them and cheer them on. It will be interesting when we have to play them....could be intense, could be a gigglefest. Time will only tell.
Kayla had another basketball game today. It wasn't one of her personal best games but the team works very well together and when one has an off day another one picks up the slack. We won 22-10. It is unbelievable how much better we are playing this year, compared to last year.
We then went over to Kim and Greg's to help with some wireless issues...actually Tim helped, the girl's and I just took turns holding baby Mallory. She is just too precious!
After that we decided to head back over to the gym to watch the Leeton team play. We know all the girl's on that team because we play softball with them. It was fun to watch them and cheer them on. It will be interesting when we have to play them....could be intense, could be a gigglefest. Time will only tell.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Science Fair--Winner Again!!
Last night was the Science Fair and Kayla teamed up with Peyton again this year and once again they recieved 1st place. Last year 1st place brought ribbons and $30 this year 1st place brought a participation certificate but the girl's didn't seem to mind too much. The project was to see how fast alkaseltzer tablets disovled in water, apple juice and chicken broth and if the temp made any difference, the hot chicken broth was the easy winner. So, their title was " A spoon full of sugar, chicken broth makes the medicine go down."
There were a lot of really good projects this year and we weren't sure how Kayla and Peyton would fair but they worked really hard.
When we got home we had a long conversation, because Kayla was feeling bad or a little guilty that her and Peyton had won again. She was afraid that others would feel bad that they had lost again. She has such a heart for others. So, we talked always doing your best and not being ashamed when you do well. We even talked about how some girl's will act ditzy or dumb around boy's because they think they will like them better. Thanfully she did say, "I want to date boy's that are smart and intellegent and that think girl's should be the same." Of course, I am even more thankfully that the whole dating thing is still a long way away!!
Congrats Kayla and Peyton, keep up the good work!!! We are proud of you!
There were a lot of really good projects this year and we weren't sure how Kayla and Peyton would fair but they worked really hard.
When we got home we had a long conversation, because Kayla was feeling bad or a little guilty that her and Peyton had won again. She was afraid that others would feel bad that they had lost again. She has such a heart for others. So, we talked always doing your best and not being ashamed when you do well. We even talked about how some girl's will act ditzy or dumb around boy's because they think they will like them better. Thanfully she did say, "I want to date boy's that are smart and intellegent and that think girl's should be the same." Of course, I am even more thankfully that the whole dating thing is still a long way away!!
Congrats Kayla and Peyton, keep up the good work!!! We are proud of you!
Monday, January 18, 2010
Up and Running
Well, here we go. I am starting a blog about our family. Not that we are terribly exciting, in fact we lead a pretty simple, normal life. But rather I am doing this to remember the little things and the little things that happen in life.
I have been following several blogs lately, some are families that are in the process of adopting, some with new babies, some that have family members dealing with devastating health issues. This blog has nothing that exciting or important.
However, I did notice on one person's blog (that is similar to what ours will be like) that she was able to order a book of her blog. Her plans are to order one a year that will be a nice hard back journal of their year as a family. Now, that is awesome and that is why I decided to start the blog.
The second reason goes right along with the first and that is we have decided to take our family vacation to Williamsburg, VA this year, with day trips to Washington DC. Kayla will need to miss school for a week and she was wondering if she could do a journal....I think it would be even better if she did a blog and then her friends can "follow" her while we are on our trip.
Ok....first post is done! Now to sit back and relax until Tim and the girl's get home from basketball practice.
Michelle
I have been following several blogs lately, some are families that are in the process of adopting, some with new babies, some that have family members dealing with devastating health issues. This blog has nothing that exciting or important.
However, I did notice on one person's blog (that is similar to what ours will be like) that she was able to order a book of her blog. Her plans are to order one a year that will be a nice hard back journal of their year as a family. Now, that is awesome and that is why I decided to start the blog.
The second reason goes right along with the first and that is we have decided to take our family vacation to Williamsburg, VA this year, with day trips to Washington DC. Kayla will need to miss school for a week and she was wondering if she could do a journal....I think it would be even better if she did a blog and then her friends can "follow" her while we are on our trip.
Ok....first post is done! Now to sit back and relax until Tim and the girl's get home from basketball practice.
Michelle