Daily Musings

2011-10-07T17:25:00.004-04:00

I posted this on my preschool blog today. Thought it would be fun to put on my personal blog as well...

One of the things that students begin to notice as they come to school in the morning is my car. As a small person, I drive a small car. A gold Mini Cooper to be exact. I guess because it's a fairly distinguishable vehicle, it interests the children and I get lots of comments about it.

So, I gave my car a name, Ginger. I also always park in the same spot and she (yes, I said she) has become a sort of extra member to our classroom. So, if you hear your child mention "Ginger", you can rest assured that you don't need to bring an extra snack when it's your day.

Also, I play games with the students that involve Ginger. At the beginning of the school year I always park her in the same spot. But once the preschoolers realize that, then I start to move her around to different places and see if they notice.

Here are some comments I have received about Ginger:

-How do you drive with your seat folded forward, Mrs. Gambee?
(I guess I reached into the back seat to get something and didn't put it back)

-Why is there a truck parked in your parking spot?
(because I drove my husband's car while Ginger was getting worked on, good noticing!)

-Why is there dirty laundry in your car?
(because I am going to stop at the dry cleaner on my way home from school)

-Why is there yogurt with a spoon in your car?
(because I ate breakfast on the way to school)

-Ginger looks like a roller skate.
(yup! I think so too!)

Preschoolers don't miss a thing!! I hope I never have to get rid of Ginger, she has brought so many fun preschool memories that I never would have expected!

Debbie Downer

2011-06-07T21:02:00.005-04:00

I had an epiphany the other day. I originally just chalked it up to just hormone emotions and being grumpy with life that day, but the thought has stuck, so I decided to blog about it.

I was watching Sam in the lake at this campground that we were at over Memorial Day weekend. He was jumping with a bunch of kids from one trampoline to another and just doing what kids do. Suddently, in that moment, it struck me that literally right before my eyes I am watching the last moments of Sam's childhood. He's growing up. I looked over at Noah who sat in the gazebo "hanging out" with his friend and then got up and tossed the lacrosse ball--the part of him that "plays like a child" has been gone for a bit now. I never paused to notice it when he was 11. Which is probably a good thing because when I did so with Sam, I lost it. I had to go for a walk to get myself put back together (as my friend Sara can attest to).

I believe that Sam will always be a playful person. He'll be the guy that tosses kids around in the pool and jumps off rope swings into the water and makes people laugh. But the actual child part of him is changing into a wonderful young man and I'm just not quite ready. I wish these little boys would stick around just a bit longer.

2011-02-09T13:49:00.002-05:00

Alrighty! I've done it. I've jumped in with both feet and signed up for the Warrior Dash in Mt. Morris on Sunday, July 31. Basically, it's a 5k (that's not so bad, right?) with some obstacles thrown in. Afterward, you wear viking helmets, have a big party and drink beer. My friend Karen from Columbus and my sister in law Melany are going to do it with me. Plus, some old friends from Spring Hill might be there too...and my brother and his friend, too. The party part sounds like a blast!

But...here's the thing. I've never run a race before. So...i'll probably look like a total idiot. But that's ok because it's only February. If I start training now...I should be set by the end of July. So, if you have any running tips...let me know.

If you want to join...the more the mightier!

Priorities

2011-01-17T08:13:00.004-05:00

It's auto-show season and the past 4-6 weeks for Anthony's business, Latitude Software, has been insane. Tony's experienced long days and even longer nights. It's caused me to ask myself, "If this was our life all the time, would it be worth it?"

There have been multiple days/nights on end when Anthony leaves in the morning after we all head off to school/work, comes back to have dinner with us and turns around and goes back to the office not to be seen again until about 3 or 4am (sometimes not at all until dinner the next night), then repeat the same cycle again for days on end. Many times, when he is with us, he's on his phone quite a bit more than usual and to be honest a lot of the time his head is still in the office.

Now, let me clarify, this is a window of time for us which will close fairly soon, which is why I am able to tolerate it. Also, to his own detriment, Tony has gone out of his way to still carve family time out of this hectic schedule, so please know that it isn't as bad as I might make it sound. But, I still can't help, during the long stretches begin to ask myself, "What would we do if it looked like this was to become our norm?" Would we be willing to take the drastic steps that it would require if Anthony started turning down jobs because he wasn't willing to sacrifice family over work.

It's a trickle-down effect when you own your own business. Tony's clients, for the most part, know each other in some capacity. In the auto industry, they are always looking over each others' shoulders to see who is doing what and with whom. If Tony started getting choosey about which jobs he took on, word would get out that he's unreliable and unwilling to "do what it takes". Which would mean that he would get less business, which means less and less money, possibly to the point of a failed business.

We aren't "rolling in the dough" as it is. Business expenses are high and with increasing insurance costs and taxes, the take home is good, but we aren't rich. However, we have more than enough. Enough to maintain our home that I love, pay the bills and give the kids experiences that we feel are valuable. We are not wanting for anything. Do I wish I had a fatter savings...sure, but don't most? The question is...could I give these things up if it came down to a choice between maintaining the family priorities that we have thus far and having to make sacrifices? Would I be willing to tell the kids that they can't play sports...or that we that we have to sell the camper because we can't afford to travel? Would I sell my house?

How much "good life" are we willing to part with so that we can maintain "family life"? That is a harder question for me than I want to admit to. Certainly there are some things I could get rid of fairly easily...but what if did come down to the bigger things? Would I do it? If faced with the choice, would I make what I would consider to be the most difficult choice, be willing to sell my house, and live in an apartment or with family in order to maintain the "family first" priorities that we have held strongly to for the past 14 years? I would like to give a resounding, "yes!" without faltering, but I'd be lying. So instead, the best I can give is a week shrug of my shoulders and say, "I think so...I hope so". But it leaves a lump in my throat and a pit in my stomach thinking about it.

These are the things I ponder.

Sexting

2011-01-14T16:03:00.003-05:00

Today in my staff development for my preschool job we had a person come in from Care House which is a place where minors that have been sexually abused can go to get help. She gave a lot of information about what they do and how they help children, but what I found most interesting was what she had to say about sexting. This is information that is, in my opinion, vital to anyone with their own kids, or who work with students in any capacity. I especially have in my mind friends that are teachers of jr. and sr. highers and youth ministry workers.

Here are the facts as were stated to me (and as far as I understood them):

In Oakland County--

If a child (minor under 18) takes a picture of any "private part" (defined by that which would be covered by a bathing suit) and texts it to someone, that child could receive 20 YEARS of probation and a permanent record of that.
If a minor on the receiving end of that "sext" distributes it to another person. The person that forwarded it AND the person who originally sent the picture could receive 7 YEARS of probation (this would be in addition to the initial 20 for person #1).
Each time the picture is further "passed around" an additional 4 YEARS could be tacked on to the 27 already earned! (This part I am fuzzy on...I feel like I may have misunderstood part of this- I could have the "every time" part not quite right).
HERE IS WHERE I WANT MY FRIENDS THAT ARE YOUTH MINISTRY WORKERS TO PAY ATTENTION: If an adult opens the phone of a minor that is NOT THEIR OWN CHILD because they suspect "sexting" and in fact find it on there. IT IS PUNISHABLE OF UP TO 27 YEARS!! If you suspect that a student that you know has inappropriate pictures on their phone, DO NOT OPEN IT! Take it to the authorities. The phone is property of that child's parents and you cannot open their property or view their child's pictures by law.

Again, this comes from what I believe to be a reliable source. She is a social worker for Oakland County and works closely with families that have had to deal with sexual abuse and child pornography. She is familiar with the law and stressed the consequences of this activty to us.

I know that, for myself, if I suspected a minor in my care, especially in a youth group/teaching capacity, I might not think twice about looking at their pictures to see if there was anything on there before I made an issue out of it, thinking that I was saving everyone from a lot of extra trouble if I was mistaken.

Also, after hearing this, I am going to be having a serious conversation with my boys about "sexting". We've talked about it a little but now I am going to make sure that they understand the consequences of participating in this kind of activity are great...first and foremost, emotionally and spiritually. But based on what I learned today...the consequences can last long into your future in ways that I didn't know were so severe.

No one wants to have these talks with their kids. I also can't imagine my own kids ever taking pictures of themselves. But the reality is that you can't control what other kids might forward to them. I want to let them know that activity like this is not to be taken lightly and that once something like this is forwarded onto their phone, it is their responsibility to handle it in an appropriate manner by seeking help from an adult they trust. Then, that adult needs to know how to handle it as well so that they are protecting themselves too.

Happy Birthday, Noah!

2010-12-13T08:39:00.010-05:00

Happy Birthday to my 13 year old.

I can't believe how much you've grown.

You are wonderful!

Cleaning House

2010-12-10T06:23:00.003-05:00

I cleaned up my blog. If you used to be on my list and you aren't anymore, it's because you haven't posted in over a year or close to it. No hard feelings. If you start blogging, please let me know so that I can put you back in.

My House, is a Very, Very, Very Fine House

2010-12-06T16:31:00.004-05:00

Yesterday, I walked into my house and was overcome with joy. It caught me by suprise and I still don't know what prompted it, but I paused to ponder the feeling. As I did, I remembered a comment that someone made not too long ago about my house being "petite". When the person said it, there was an err of righteousness to their voice that took me off guard and I questioned if this person felt that I was lacking something because I have a "petite" house. Yesterday, as all these things came to mind I thought, "I'm gonna blog about this".

The thing is that I LOVE my home. It's unique, colorful, warm, welcoming and yes...small--by the standards of many that I know who live in my area. What's funny is that there was a time when I didn't even notice that my house was smaller than some. When we first moved in here ten and a half years ago, this place felt like a mansion compared to the 800 foot cabin we lived in when we first got married. I would stand in the kitchen at the top/bottom of the stairs looking up at the hallway that leads to the bedrooms and down at the family room and marvel at all this space...I would think to myself, "I can't believe I get to live here".

Ask anyone, my house isn't anything special. It's a nearly 30 year old tri-level with leaky ceilings, creaky hallway floors and stinky well water. We don't even have a garage anymore because we wanted a room for the kids to be able to hang with their friends and the way that made the most sense to us was to use the garage. The cars are just fine outside.

I guess it's all in how one looks at the gifts they've been given. Not only have we been given a roof over our heads, which would be enough, but we have been given so much more.

I still stand in that same spot in the kitchen and get teary eyed at the blessing we have here in this home. I love my bright walls and the smokey smell of the family room from the wood-burning stove. I smile when I walk into each bedroom because it expresses the unique personality of the ones who dwell there. I love that my children have had the opportunity to live two doors down from grandma and grandpa and I will cherish forever the memories that have been made here and the friends that have graced our threshold.

I still can't believe I get to live here!

Addendum to my previous blog

2010-11-14T16:47:00.002-05:00

Remember what I said about what is it not about?

For my kids' youth leader, Alex, it's not about having weekends to himself. After church today, he came to my house and spent the whole afternoon playing X-Box with Sam and his friend. Just because. Alex is the perfect example of a guy that knows that only when you build up trust through relationship in these kids, will they be open to hearing the messages God has for them.

Our family is so blessed to have young men, like Alex, in their lives who desire to be Jesus to jr. highers. So much so that they will give up their Sunday afternoon football games and time to hang with their own friends. These are the guys that my boys will want to follow to the feet of Christ.

It's not about...

2010-11-12T06:46:00.002-05:00

We have had a saying for years in regard to Alice's tea kiosk at Laurel Park Mall that "It's not about the tea". What we mean by that is this. Alice and her partners opened the kiosk this past Monday and since then she has prayed for 1-2 people, every single day, right there in front of the cart in the middle of the mall. There is something about tea...and Alice...that people come up and start talking about their struggles...lost pregnancy, cancer, divorce, death, etc... Alice will always ask if they want to pray and more often than not, they say yes. People even come out of the stores that surround the kiosk and watch her pray out of curiosity. No one has ever complained.

It had me up in the middle of the night last thinking. What in my life is it "not about"? For me it's not about teaching preschoolers their ABC's and 123's. It's about knowing that they are children of God and that they have a purpose greater than going to kindergarten. For me it's not about taking tests and doing projects in my college classes. It's about getting to know the people in my class, even...(gulp)...especially... that super annoying girl who I believe to truly be a pathological liar that I can't stand because she one ups every single thing that anyone else says!!!! She too needs to know that the Jesus that lives in me cares about her too (even though my flesh can't stand her).

For my kids it's not about getting good grades and going to school and sports. It's about a school full of middle schoolers that have mixed up, messed up parents that need help.

I can't pray for my preschoolers openly, but I can know their families. I can know that the children are struggling because their parents are struggling. Some families work so many hours that they have actually told us to parent their kids. And I can pray. Not out loud for my preschoolers, but there is nothing stopping me from giving them a little hug and a silent prayer for them. I can show love and compassion when little Suzie is having her 4th melt down of the morning and is beyond reason! I can be encouraging, understanding and loving when parents come in and have excuses for why it's been 10 weeks and we still don't have the paperwork we need for their child to be in preschool!!!

I can get to know the girl who drives me insane in my class. Who knows...because to be honest, I've avoided her until now...perhaps I will gain some insight into what is happening in her life to make her the way she is. I go to a Catholic university. There is nothing stopping me from praying for her in the hallways of the school.

My kids may not be ready or able to pull aside other middle schoolers and pray for them in the school hallway. But they can show compassion, not anger when another kid pushes past them and says "get outta my way, dickwad!" (yup...it happens). They can be a voice of kindness and encouragement in a sea of violence, bad manners, swearing, sarcasm and put-downs.

We are called to be Jesus to people. I get caught up in what, on the exterior, it's all about. Today, I'm choosing to change my focus and begin asking myself regularly, "What's it not about?".

Things I've learned over the past 14 years

2010-11-02T08:18:00.006-04:00

Marriage isn't easy. It's a lot of work. Here are some things that this young girl above has learned in the last 14 years. I wish I could look ahead and see what this blog post would look like from the me that has been married for 30...or 60 years.

Happy Anniversary, Anthony. I wouldn't want to do life with anyone else. You really are my best friend. Even better than love...I still like you!!

We can't each give 50%-we both have to give 100% (this is the #1 rule that we try to live by.)

The older I get, the easier it is to be married.

Sometimes...he's right.

It's hard to say sorry.

Hold hands.

Listen to the words behind what he's saying...not what he's saying. Sometimes it's two different things.

Who knew that I would be so in sync with someone that he would know what I was going to say before I said it?

It's not like it is in TV where I can say whatever hateful thing I want and he will just laugh it off and things get resolved in 30 mins.

Email is a good way to get my point across.
Pray for each other and with each other.

Taking time out alone is as important as taking time out together

Next to our relationship with God, marriage has to be the primary relationship in the family. It even comes before the kids (*gasp* Yup, I said it!!). It has to be like this if we want it to still be there long after the kids are grown.

Love my spouse in the way HE likes to be loved, not the way I do.

Give grace.

Sex is not like it is in the movies.

More often than not, I have to tell him what I want. He isn't a mind reader.

Marriage is like a garden. There are beautiful flowers, but there will always be weeds that have to be picked. Some of those weeks have some pretty deep roots. Some are really persistant and will constantly keep coming up. Keep picking!!

There are weeds in that guys garden over there too-so keep out!

Compromise is hard.

He REALLY didn't see that pile of laundry that he just stepped over on his way past the laundry room. If I ask him to take care of it...he'll happily do it!

Forgive easily.

When I'm frustrated with him, if I try, really, really hard to come up with 3 positive things about him, it actually helps me get past it.

Fight fair! No name calling or saying "you always...".

Don't talk about divorce flippantly.
After 14 years, we still have stuff to talk about.

Keep the number to a good therapist in my back pocket!

There is no room for pride.

Fight about the issue at hand...don't bring in other stuff from the past.

Don't pee in front of each other.

Some things will not change.

He still makes me laugh.

I'm not always so easy to live with either.

I would rather be with him than without him.

A Clarification

2010-10-19T15:00:00.002-04:00

I know that in the past we are often the ones to initiate "play dates" or times to get together with friends, and because of that we have had three different people ask if Tony and I or my kids are "mad" or "upset" about something because we have been so distant lately. I just want to clarify in case there are more of you out there thinking the same.

I think it's probably true of everyone that you go through "transitional times" where life is just a bit harder and it takes some time to adjust. This is where the Gambee family is at right now. The transition of me going back to school, both boys being in middle school, driving to Southfield to church twice a week and the boys' sports schedules have hit us quite hard. This is in addition to Anthony's increased work load and still trying to find the time for family time and for Tony and I to have time alone as a couple. I know I have said several times that I feel like we are treading water... day by day and sometimes minute by minute.

Please don't hear this as complaining. I know that others have lived a life this busy or busier since their kids were born! It's just that this is not the life we have chosen for ourselves in the past. Tony and I have been very intentional about not overscheduling ourselves and our kids. It has always been really important to us to have time for our kids to have free play and to even be a little bored sometimes. We have only participated in one sport and been very choosey about what else we take on. But now the boys are growing and other things are becoming important as well. It's a priority for me to pursue my education and for Tony to grow his business. It's a priority for us to help our kids become invested in their youth group and activities that they love. With new changing priorities come...a transitional time.

This is just a facet of life and like every other transition we have been through, we will adjust and one day, this will become normal to us. But right now, it's not. But it means that for this season, unless someone has really sought us out, or I have bumped into you as part of our normal schedule (ie. soccer, church, etc.), we probably haven't seen you or called you.

We still love you. Our boys do want to play, we do want to hang out and you are important to us. But getting our family on track again is the priority right now. So, if you really want to hang out, call us and hopefully we can get a time together (warning: it may be a week or two). Call our kids to play, chances are at least one of them is available at any given time.

Pretty soon, we'll call you first! Thanks for understanding!

2010-10-02T15:53:00.002-04:00

Best day in a long time-see, I told you October was way better than September. Today is perfect because of these things...

Morning soccer game
Chat with a friend at grocery store
Chili
Cornbread
Rice Krispie Treats
College Football
Coffee
Fire in fireplace

I love this day!

A lesson we can learn from 4 year olds

2010-09-20T14:09:00.002-04:00

This is a conversation between two preschoolers in my class today...I think we could learn a thing or two from them. (names changed*).

Setting: A boy and girl sitting together at the playdough table. I'm not sure what precipitated the argument but this is what I observed as I stood there trying to decide if I should get involved or not.

Michelle: You're mean!!

Mikey: No, you're mean!

Michelle: You're the meanest in all the land!!

Mikey: Well, your the meanest in all the...(pauses to come up with a good word) SANDWICH!! (then he giggles)

Michelle: You can NEVER come to my house!

Mikey: You can never come to My house either!!

Michelle: Nevermind...you can come to my house.

Mikey: What do you have at your house?

Michelle: Toys.

Mikey: Nods his head. Wanna go play with Legos?

Michelle: YEAH! Let's go over there and play with Legos!

*Good thing I stayed out or this wonderful exchange would have been thwarted by my involvement!

Summer Blahs

2010-07-07T08:58:00.002-04:00

This is the time of summer where the kids and I start to get antsy. It's the time in between trips and activities where there are long stretches of hot days with nothing to do. We all start to get a little testy and I start wishing we had a pool. I can't complain, our friends that do have a pool would let us use it any time, but I hate to abuse that privelege.

Friday we leave for Camp Dearborn, if you don't know, it's a campground owned by the city of dearborn but it's in Milford which is only a 15 minute drive from my house. They have a lake and pool, mini-golf and bike trails. It will be great for the kids to have some options. We'll be there for 2.5 weeks. It's also nice because I can still come home for things like laundry and bills. Anthony will still work and the kids have doctor appointments and such. So, it's like we just uproot our home and move it somewhere fun for a few weeks.

We have invited nearly everyone we know to come visit us and hang. We even have a couple friends that are coming to stay for a week or more. I'm looking forward to it.

Oh What a Night

2010-07-02T09:36:00.002-04:00

Do you ever just have a night that can only be explained as weird? Alice and I went to the Cyndi Lauper concert last night and had no expecation of it being anything more than fun. But one thing after another just made it a weird, up and down emotional night.

The concert was good, she was promoting her Memphis Blues Album, so she sang mostly songs off that album, which was really good and in the end, I liked it better than when she did some of her "greatest hits". Although, the crowd started getting grumpy when she didn't do some of the songs they wanted her to do and then she got a little testy herself because of them, which dampened the end of the concert for everyone. But she was still Cyndi Lauper and I do love her.

But throughout the night, we just had these other uncomfortable, odd situations. I got a text out of the blue that was distracting for me, she had a drop-in visit from a relative that she hasn't seen in years, and then a voice mail from another relative grumping at her.

On the way home there was a major police chase and shooting on the opposite side of the highway where an armed robber was shot and killed! I think every police officer in Oakland and Wayne Counties were there. Then five crotch rocket type motorcycles drove past us at such a high speed, they had to be going at least 120mph, that we both nearly pooped our pants. Needless to say after it all, our nerves were fried and all we wanted was to just be home!!

Sustaining the Momentum

2010-07-01T10:13:00.002-04:00

We biked and hiked so much on our camping trip and felt so good that we are trying to maintain the momentum now that we're home. I've biked daily since we got back and have loved every minute...well, maybe not EVERY minute, but most of them. I especially like it when I can ride with a friend, so if you're interested, let me know.

Today, when I awoke at 7:00am Tony asked me to go for a ride with him. So, we left a note for the kids that we were going on a ride (they were still sleeping) and took off to the neighborhood behind us and started on the walking/biking trail that leads to the dairy twist...that's how I identify it.

As we approached the baseball fields, we noticed a single track mountain bike trail. "Fun!" we thought. And it was...but it kicked our asses!! It was truly the definition of single track with roots, trees close together, twists and turns and tree trunks to go over. It took about an hour to navigate through it. It is such a fantastically designed trail that I would love to thanks the people that built it. I know the city paid for it, but I want to know who actually built the trail. It's terrific!!

I feel great now but I know I'm going to feel it tonight and tomorrow. However, it was so worth it! I can't wait to bring the boys and just do part of it and then double back, it's a bit too much for them to do the whole thing, I think.

So, if you live in this area and want a little challenge, go for it! Bring a helmet, I think this finally pushed Tony into getting one...he had a couple close calls. *By the way, that's my new helmet above, cute huh?*

We Call Him the Chipmunk Whisperer

2010-06-26T09:33:00.005-04:00

As I mentioned in one of my other posts, we have loved it here at The Pinery. We took a 14k bike ride, we have hiked several trails, flew kites at the beach and swum in lake huron. Sam and Tony rented a jet ski yesterday while Noah and I hiked another trail.

But the most fun has been watching Sam feed these little guys...

We call this one Woody. Later The Prospector came and tried to gather some almonds for himself, but Woody was having none of it!

We like to picture Woody in a track suit in February sitting on top of his fat pile of nuts with a gold chain around his neck rapping..."You can get with this...or you can get with that..." (points to little wimpy chipmunk with one wilty peanut standing in the corner). *Thanks Kia Soul for the fantastic commercial*

Here is Sam feeding Woody by hand.

If you want to see a chipmunk stuff his cheeks with almonds up close check this out. Fast forward for a few seconds first.

More Blogging, Less Twittering

2010-06-24T13:53:00.002-04:00

I have really missed blogging. I love summer as it affords me the time to do what I love and one of those things is writing. I don't claim to be an expert at it but I do enjoy the written word and I regret that I have been swayed far too easily by the 140 characters or less dark side.

The thing about writing is that I can more clearly communicate my thoughts in writing than speak them. I've been known in times of marital stress to write my thoughts in an email rather than talking where I fumble over my words and emotions; even when Tony is just sitting in the next room. I'm a huge advocate of thank you notes and love letters...although, I admit to not writing them often enough. (note to self....write more love letters).

If I stop and really think about it, just the act of sending someone a note in the snail mail reveals many things. When you pick out the perfect card or stationary you are thinking of that person, what they would like or what you think their need is at that moment. Do they need encouragement, congrats...or just an acknowledgement of the role they play in your life.

When you stop to write the words on the page you are taking time out of your day to devote to that person. Time is the most important thing we have to give...to give it to someone shows how much you value them.

Unlike the instant gratification of email....with a posted letter we wait...and wait. To me, the waiting shows that there is value in the letter. Good things are worth waiting for...I could write a whole other blog post on how we don't know how to wait for anything anymore.

I don't have a great finish to this post. Other than that I think I'll write more letters and cards to the people I care about.

The End. (lame, I know...told you I'm not an expert writer)

A Red Roof Inn might work just as well

2010-06-23T22:13:00.007-04:00

Sometimes, Noah's hormones and mine bump up against each other. When that happens, it's not pretty.

Also, I think God had it right in the old testament when he sent the women away during their "unclean" time. The whole notion of the "red tent" isn't such a bad idea. Today I wish I had one because the proximity to the three males in this camper isn't nearly far enough for any of us.

When Tony had the nerve to ask..."isn't there something you could take to make this shorter?"...I about lost it on him. I just started getting moody TODAY...it's not like I've been this way all week or anything! Chances are good that after a good night's sleep I'll be back to my cheery self in the morning. Geesh! Can I get a little teeny tiny bit of sympathy and understanding?? Anyone??

I want a red tent and wish Karen (who I almost called to vent to today because her hormones are all wacky right now too) and some of my other girlfriends in there with me to vent about how insensitive men can be. Though Tony's one of the more sensitive types...he'll never understand what it's like to be a woman.

Oh Canada...

2010-06-22T09:18:00.002-04:00

We are taking our first family vacation of the summer in Grand Bend, Ontario Canada. The campground we are at is called The Pinery. It's only about 3 hours from home and it is absolutely beautiful here! It's a huge provincial park with lots of trees and space between the campsites. There are tons of trails and it's a quick bike ride to Lake Huron.

Yesterday we rode bikes on a trail for a while and then hiked one of the trails and read all about the Oak Savannah, one of the few remaining of it's kind in North America. We learned how in the 1960's people were afraid that because the area looked sparse, they thought they needed to plant a ton of pine trees, but in doing that they actually hurt the environment so now the rangers here are pulling the pine trees out to restore the savannah to it's natural state again. We spent time talking about how often man destroys the natural order that God has created but then we can learn from our mistakes and fix it again. Hikes like this make me want to home school the boys.

Speaking of disturbing natural order...Sam's favorite thing has been hand feeding squirrels and chipmunks. He named the two that hang out around our campsite Buzz and Woody and they take almonds right from his hand. He loves to watch them fill their cheeks until they can't hold anymore then run into their hole and come back for more. He calls all the big black squirrels Rex.

When we're not learning about the savannah here or feeding wildlife or riding bikes, we spend our time reading and playing games. Battleship is a favorite on this trip for some reason and I've taught the kids Phase 10 although they are both terribly poor losers at that game for some reason.

Today is rainy and is supposed to rain all day...tomorrow too. So, we haven't quite figured out what to do. The nearest movie theater is about 50 miles and I hate to spend our time doing things that we can do at home, but I might shoot myself if I have to be trapped in the camper with the boys for two days. So, we may not have a choice.

All in all, this is a great trip so far and I would recommend it to anyone that enjoys the great outdoors.

Summer Time

2010-06-17T09:16:00.002-04:00

First words out of Sam's mouth yesterday...I'm bored. I will do bodily harm to my children or to myself if this is a preview of what my summer is going to look like.

God loves Sam

2010-06-15T23:03:00.003-04:00

As stated in the post beneath this, today was Sam's fifth grade graduation day. He was very much looking forward to his last day of elementary school with his friends, signing yearbooks and t-shirts and going to the pool with the whole fifth grade.

But, he woke at 4am this morning with a 100.5 fever and a headache. He was so, so upset that he started crying assuming he was not going to be able to go. So, first thing we did was pray. Then, after he settled, I prayed alone. Then, I woke Tony up and we prayed together.

And as is so evident and true of our God, he knew the desires of Sam's heart and by the morning, he was feeling totally fine. So, he went to school and enjoyed his day to it's fullest.

Sure enough...within minutes of getting home, he took a 2-1/2 hour nap. His fever continued to rise and by 9:45pm we were in the urgent care with the diagnosis of strep and a prescription to go with it.

God is good. He knew Sam's illness, but allowed it to hold off so that he could enjoy his day. We are so thankful that He cares about the little things.

Bittersweet

2010-06-15T22:48:00.003-04:00

Today marks a momentous day for our family (and others too, but this is MY blog). Today Sam graduated from elementary school. It was a big deal for us. We have loved Oakley Park. From the day we first stepped foot there we felt it was a warm, caring place for our boys' first days in school. As time went on, I fell in love with the students, parents and staff as I began to serve the school first as family events chairperson and then as PTA president. Then even more when I started working at the preschool in the same building.

So, today, we said goodbye to OPE and hello to middle school with a small ceremony and a fun day at the waterpark. And I'm sad.

But I'm proud of my boys and the middle schoolers that they have become. It's in large part thanks to our elementary school and the people there that loved them and taught them to be the students that they are. I'm thankful for that and I am certain that our family will forever look at these past seven years as one of the stretches of time in our lives where we were very happy.

Coming Together

2010-06-08T06:51:00.005-04:00

Last night we went to a fundraiser for a teen in our community who had a tragic accident this spring. I don't know Drew personally and I won't go into all the details because I may not have them right and I don't want to make statements that aren't true. What I do know is that he did a backflip and ended up paralyzed from the shoulders down.

Our community has rallied in a way that I have never seen before and I am so touched. In the past few months since his accident, there have been many fundraisers to raise money for all his medical needs and house rennovations that will be needed to accomodate his wheel chair and other equipment.

Last night, the Walled Lake/Commerce community, not just the schools, filled a local restaurant for 4 plus hours straight!! The line of cars getting into the parking lot snaked out onto the main road, backing up traffic...people didn't drive away!! The line to get a table was 50+ minutes long...and people waited anyway!!

The restaurant donated spaghetti dinners for $10 each with the ENTIRE donation going to Drew. Of course, there were raffles and the WL Drum Line and band (Drew played Tuba before his accident) provided wonderful, uplifting music. It was exactly what people are supposed to do for each other.

I challenge you, the next time you see an event for someone in your home town that needs a hand up...go! Even if you don't know them. Even if you can only afford a few bucks. Dig for change in your couch and go anyway. It will do the recipient good in so many ways and it will do your heart good to see strangers and friends coming together for a common cause.

If you are interested in more about Drew or donating to his cause click the Drew Crew link to the right.

The time has come

2010-06-07T17:58:00.003-04:00

So the time has come where my kids are online more often and they are reading the blogs of some of the youth staff at our church...the question has finally come up. "Mom, what's your blog address?". To which I fumbled and fell over my words as I tried to decide whether or not to give it to them. Now, it's not password protected right now, so they could find it easy enough if they searched...though, I don't think they have yet.

I have to decide. Do I let them read it or do I protect it? It's not that I say anything too inappropriate or anything. I just tend to vomit words on the page without thinking and now I'll have to think bit...do I really want the kids to know this about me. But that's ok. It's a fun connection to have with them. I think I'll let them have it.

If you're interested...I linked Noah's blog to the right.

I did it.

2010-04-26T14:42:00.001-04:00

I finally shut off my facebook account.

2010-04-23T13:36:00.002-04:00

Actual conversation from the elementary book fair last night:

Scene: School media center filled with parents and children buying books.

Characters: me (working the cash register), a dad (wearing a suit and spending about $170 on books) with his kids standing there (1 highschool daughter and 2 elementary age boys)

Me: Hi, how are ya? Looks like you found alot.

Dad: Do you have playboy back there somewhere? (clearly trying to make a joke)

Me: (nothing, I just ignore him--although, I did fumble with the cash register keys a bit)

Dad: Well, I guess just pictures of you ladies will have to do.

WTF?? I thought this kind of sexism was mostly gone now. And in an elementary school? Come on!!

Facebook, schmacebook

2010-04-20T17:08:00.002-04:00

So, I'm going to close my facebook account for a while. I'm tired of it, I find it distracting and frankly, it annoys me. I'm downsizing. If people really want to keep in touch with me, they'll read my blog or better yet, call me.

I just feel there is too much noise in my life. So...here we go. I'm having a harder time with this than I really should.

*but first I'm going save all my pictures to my computer just in case I can't get back into it like they claim I can.

Dodgeball!!

2010-04-17T22:42:00.002-04:00

Just returned from the dodgeball tournament at our church. The tourney was for 6-8th graders, so it was just Noah and 5 of his friends. The boys had a blast at the tourney but maybe even had more fun driving to and from. They were loud and crazy and made me and Tony crack up. We stopped for ice cream on the way home. They even said we were "so nice". Which is always nice to hear! I think it's safe to say that we all had a very fun night!

Changes

2010-04-16T17:15:00.003-04:00

I know that Noah is only 12 and that to anyone with children older than this, 12 is nothing. I know that he still has at least six more years to be under my roof and that I will never not be his mom. I know all that...and I know that I have a flare for the dramatic. But that does not change my thoughts that lately I notice how much older he's getting, how he's changing and how the way he needs me is changing. He doesn't need me to get his breakfast in the morning or to tie his shoes. He doesn't need me to arrange his playdates or brush his teeth. He doesn't need my kisses when he stubs his toe. Heck, even on the rare occcasion when he needs help with his homework he goes to his dad.

I take solace in the fact that he still needs me to give him an allowance and to buy his clothes or to drive him to his friends' houses. He needs me to give him hugs when he feels icky and he even still likes me to tuck him in at night. He still needs me for a lot of things...

but it's not the same. What he needs from me is more practical. Not that he doesn't need my love and attention, but he doesn't want to hang out with me much anymore. He much prefers to be with his friends. I miss that the most and it grieves me to know that it's not going to come back. He is never again going to prefer being with me over his friends. That's just not the way it works.

The way it works now is exactly the way it should. We have given him a safe place to work out his emotions and the challenges that he is beginning to go through as an adolescent. I have read all the books that say how it should go...we get his moodiness and his outbursts. We get shut out as he develops and tests the waters of his independence and his relationships with the outside world. He gets to come home and show his true feelings to us which aren't always (or even usually) so pleasant. And we suck it up and try to grow thick skin and try to help him navigate the rough waters. He gets to show his complaints and moans and his laziness and all that stuff to us...but the world outside gets his pleasantness, kindness and helpfulness. Which is how we would prefer it, but I can't help but think...THIS ISN'T FAIR!!

We have invested all our time and energy and love into what was once this little creature, we have bonded with him, created memories and exhausted tons of effort and this is what we get in return? For him to turn 12, become moody and start to pull away from us? Everyone told me being a parent is hard. Everyone told me about how awful it would be when he became a teen. I expected frustration and anger (and believe me there's plenty of that), but I did not expect heart break. Which is how it feels. It's similar to that feeling of being in love with someone and having them break up with you. It's similar...only different.

Don't hear me wrong. I'm not the first to experience this. I'm echoing the sentiments of moms throughout history. But it's the first time for me. And it's hard. I hate it. I was prepared to be a mom to little ones. I can do babies and toddlers and young boys. But this young man standing before me has taken me by suprise and the feelings that I am having have taken me by suprise as well.

2010-04-09T09:07:00.001-04:00

Yay! I found a way to blog via my iPhone.

2010-04-09T09:03:00.001-04:00

Is this working yet

Sam's Raise Proposal

2010-03-25T20:59:00.003-04:00

Sam just came to me and asked for a raise. I told him that in order to get one, he needed to "make an appointment" with me and dad and then write out his reasons. He emailed me with this request:

I think I should get a raise in money because I'm older and more mature. Also I have more chores. I think $30 per month is resonable price. I think we should get $10 raise every 2 years.

I'm thrilled with his take charge approach! We give our kids $20 a month now. They get paid at the beginning of the month, but they are responsible for a lot of things...like hot lunch should they choose to buy it and if they go out with friends, they have to pay for their own food or movie ticket, etc... So, $30 now that they're getting into middle school isn't such a bad idea.

I'll keep you posted on how our meeting goes and what we decide. I love that Sam is never afraid to ask for what he wants. He's like Tony in that. He'll go far in life!

Worst Weekend Ever.

2010-03-15T06:40:00.002-04:00

Tony decided this would be a good weekend to get his wisdom teeth removed. We thought it would be a day or two of pain but allowed for the whole weekend to be pretty open "just in case".

He went in Friday morning at 8:30am. They said he didn't need a driver because it was going to be a 20 minute procedure. He opted on his own to not do the IV sedation. They numbed him and everything started out fine. As the got deeper into it, though, he started feeling pain and no matter what they did, they couldn't get it numb enough down by the roots. So, to make a long story short, they just yanked 'em. 20 minutes turned into nearly 3 hours, leaving my husband in the most pain he's felt in his life!

He came home and I went and picked up a bottle of vicodin and prescription motrin. He lived on those all weekend and had many ups and downs. Saturday morning I noticed a little rash on his side and said he should keep an eye on it.

He felt good enough to go to the Scruggs fundraiser on Saturday night, which was a lot of fun! We won this fantastic pair of earrings and Dolce & Gabbana sunglasses from the silent auction and had fun chatting with friends.

Saturday night was awful. He was up in severe pain. He called the dentist Sunday morning and he said he would prescribe him antibiotics, which he never did and never answered any other calls, either. Lame! But, by the evening he was feeling better enought to visit with my sister, Andrea and her husband Dan for dinner on their way catch their flight to Haiti. We always enjoy seeing them.

Tony started feeling pretty bad again and so came home and layed on the couch for the remainder of the night. At about midnight, we decided to go to bed when I noticed his rash again and that it had spread quite a bit. It looked familiar and brought up pictures of shingles online (I had them several years ago). After much deliberation he decided to just go to the ER. Sure enough. Shingles! The doctor said he couldn't feel them because of all the pain meds he's on for his teeth, but to be prepared for the shittiest week ever!

I just went up and gave him more pain meds and he's miserable. He's got to go into the dentist today because the dentist suspects dry socket and so they are going to pack his extraction point and we'll see if that helps.

This has been the worst weekend we've had in a LONG time!

Catching Up

2010-02-24T14:49:00.002-05:00

It's been such a long time since I posted that certainly no one reads this anymore. But I'm afraid that if I don't post something, Blogger will remove my blog due to it not being used...or read. Perhaps this will jump start me back into a habit. I actually really like writing but I guess I've allowed the busy-ness of my life and the ease of typing in 120 characters or less get the best of me.

Here is a rundown of the past 6 months to catch up:

October:
My birthday

Went to visit my friend Karen in Columbus (totally love that town and would move there in a heartbeat if we weren't so damn connected here). I also learned about an organization called Justice Gardens that works toward food justice for people who can't afford healthy food for themselves.

Halloween: Noah: Ghostbuster, Sam: don't remember Kelli:Edith Bunker Tony:Archie Bunker Pana: Squirrel

Turned garage into a rumpus room. It is the best thing we've ever done! It adds so much value to our house, not in dollar terms but in terms of having the kids' and their friends come and have a place that they want to hang out! I've even had a few of my friends come a couple of times for girls' nights out there. We love it so much that I don't even care when I have to brush 8 inches of snow off my car. Who needs a garage for your car when you can fill it with memories! (I know, cheesy!)

Noah started taking guitar lessons with a new instructor. This guy is awesome. He is really encouraging and teaching Noah about music in such amazing ways! Noah has really grown musically and even plays with some friends at school in their own "band". I would say it's cute...but they actually do such an awesome job playing together that it seems condiscending to call it that.

November:
Thanksgiving: Went to my parents. Not much to report else in November.

December:
My favorite thing about December was not Christmas, but advent. I love the time reflecting on the stories of God's provision for his people by providing a redeemer. I love the questions that the kids ask and how even though we go over the same stories every year, as the kids grow and mature their questions become more complex and they dig deeper into the true meaning of Christmas.

Christmas was fun too. Tony got flying lessons as he always says he wishes he had a hobby and his dream job would be to be a helicopter pilot. This seemed a good thing to fulfill both wishes in a way. He is going to actually start in April, when the weather isn't so unpredictable.

Noah's favorite gift was his Jason Mraz guitar strap. Noah saw Jason's and thought it was super cool. Somehow, Tony figured out who made it and had one made for Noah just like it by the same person that made Jason's. That was a sweet gift!!

I got a new bed. I've wanted for some time now to go from a King to a Queen (yes, you read it right). So, that's what I got, plus, bonus was that I also got to redecorate the room since we needed to buy all new bedding to fit the new bed too! Fun, fun!!

On December 13, Noah turned 12. This is my last year for some time that I won't have teenager. Weird. Where did the time go? He is such an awesome kid and though he can be a bit moody and have been known to complain about him. He really is a kind, intelligent young man who cares deeply for others and shows it often through his actions. I'm so proud of who he is becoming!

The biggest new of December is that Tony moved out of his home office and into a rented one. He needed to hire some people, so it just made sense to do so. I was a bit nervous at first, but it has proved to work quite well...even better in many ways. He keeps his computer at work and he's usually home by 5:30pm. Whereas before, when he had downtime, he would find himself wandering back into the "dungeon", now he doesn't have that option, so he will read or play video games with the boys or just hang out with me. I love it!

January:
The biggest new of Janurary is that I went back to college. I'm working toward my early childhood development degree. Who knew those little rugrats would work their way under my skin in the past five years! I decided to get my last two basic classes out of the way, so I'm taking PE (yes, they still make you take that...Karate was my choice) and US Government, which I'm kind of glad to take because I have a new perspective on it now as an adult voter and tax payer than I had 15 years ago.

Sam started snowboarding, he's actually really good at it. He would go daily if we would let him. He loves to go with his friend, also named Sam. They will be out there for hours and hours until we make them go home. I love his desire to be outside and be active. I wish I had that.

February:
The most fun month by far because this month I took a vacation for myself. I went on a cruise with two friends, Karen and Cara. Neither of them even new each other, but I put it on Facebook that I was looking for someone to travel with and they were both takers. You never know what to expect when you put two people who don't know each other together, but I did quite well if I do say so myself. Karen and Cara are similar in many ways and so we all got along fabulously! We left from Mobile and went to Cozumel and another new port in Progreso. In Cozumel we rented a dune buggy and had a blast on a tour of how to make tequila with Paco Pancho and then we went to the beach and just soaked up the sun. Much fun was had! I will admit that I really missed Tony though. I even said to Karen at one point that I sort of felt like my right arm was missing. I don't realize how much I enjoy being with him until I'm away from him for any length of time.

Speaking of Tony, he and the boys stayed home (it was break). I have the best husband to not only encourage me to take some time away, but to take the boys when they have 5 days off school. He took them and 4 of their friends for a hotel night with swimming and arcades. He took Sam snowboarding and everything. He's a good guy and I'm so thankful for him!

Now, that catches us up to now. I enjoyed writing again so much that maybe I won't wait 5 months to do it again!

For Karan

2009-10-07T15:14:00.003-04:00

I want to show Karan my rat and the cute idea I copied from the Martha Stewart magazine. Since I can't access facebook at school, I'm putting them here so she can see them. Not that she probably cares, but that's okay. I'll make her look anyway.

This is for you Karan...hopefully it will change your mind about having a classroom pet. How 'bout just a little one...a hamster? Or a small snake?

Here Karan...for you. Hopefully this will change your mind about a classroom pet.

Happy Birthday to me.

2009-10-04T17:58:00.002-04:00

It's my birthday. I'm thirty five, but I have decided that whoever goes around saying they're twenty nine has got it all wrong. If you're my age and say that you're younger than you are...no one is really going to believe you. However, if I tell people I'm 5-7 years older, they simply say "wow, you look great!".

That is my new tactic...so if anyone asks how old I am, tell them I'm forty...can you do that for me?

VMA's

2009-09-14T06:52:00.003-04:00

Wow! The VMA's did not dissapoint this year. When Lady Ga Ga was shown in the red dress with the flame like hat on her head all I could think of was how bad it sucked to be the person sitting behind her! I think I found her long lost twin.

Happy Birthday, Sam!!

2009-09-12T06:22:00.006-04:00

You're TEN! Look how you've grown!

True Love

2009-07-12T08:04:00.003-04:00

One of the best things about our trip has been having the opportunity to ask my Papa about my grandmother who died when I was about 4-1/2 years old.

Here is the story of how they met. Dave started dating Jeane when my grandmother was a teenager and when she was 16 her family moved from Boston to San Francisco. My papa wanted her to stay with him in Boston, but her family wouldn't let her because she was still young. Shortly after she left, my papa enlisted in the Marines. In the time he was gone, my grandma married someone else and had my mom. But they divorced and she reconnected with my papa who adopted my mom as a baby and the rest is history. I never even knew my mom was adopted until I was an adult. Not because it was a big secret but, I think, it just wasn't a big deal. He is her father and that is all that matters.

I have a few memories of my grandmother. The most vivid one I have is her and I having a parade with wooden spoons and pots marching around the house. I also, vaguely remember going to a place called Santa's Village with her, though, that could just be from pictures I've seen. I remember the way her house smelled, though I couldn't describe it. I remember her love of reading which she instilled in me as a very little girl. I remember the sugar pourer that sat on their kitchen table all the time and I remember her wearing a scarf on her head when she was sick, though I don't think I knew she was sick. I wish I had known her longer. She was a sweet lady with a lot of love for her family.

This is a quote from papa this week about mama (that's what I called her)...

'She was the love of my life. We were suppossed to last forever.'

I guess that about sums it up.

Boston

2009-07-12T07:27:00.002-04:00

When we took our trip out west 2 years ago, toward the end, I started talking about wanting to do a similar east coast trip. I knew that we would see all the cool touristy things like Cape Cod and the city of Boston. What I didn't know was that we would meet up with my Papa (my mom's dad) and connect with family, many of which I have never even met. They have welcomed us with open arms and it almost feels as though I've known them forever. It's really been such a sweet time of hearing stories about my grandparents and mom. Of hearing how my papa grew up and getting the opportunity to see him with his siblings. It's remarkable how even after all these years, Papa and his brother, Don, still have some of the same mannerisms.

This family reminds me so much of how we are back home. Yesterday, my cousin (or 2nd cousin) had a picnic here and the kids were all swimming and playing baseball in the backyard while the adults ate and laughed. I taught the family how to play ladder golf while Uncle John and his daughter Rosemary played cribbage. A frequent site is my papa telling us how to get where we need to go. We have the GPS Tom Tom, but we finally just turned it off because we have the "Dave Dave". The more the merrier is the motto around here and I haven't felt once like an outsider.

The other day when we were at my papa's sister Mary Lou's house, I commented on this cross stitch wall hanging that I liked it a lot. (It's done in those colors that I love), so, the next day they showed up at the doorstep of my camper and presented it to me. My great-grandmother made it. I love it and will hang it proudly in my camper, it just seems fitting. She also gave me some old doilies (did I spell that right?) that great-grandma made too.

We are leaving tomorrow and while I'm excited to see Maine, I'm saddened to be leaving here.

Extra! Extra!

2009-07-05T07:20:00.003-04:00

Here are the headlines in our lives lately since I don't have time for a real post...

Hippy Haired Noah finally cuts hair after 3-1/2 years (pictures later)!!

New camper to replace the beat up one from the accident!!

Family leaves for Boston/Maine/New York for 2-1/2 weeks today!!

Kelli is insane to take on fundraiser at middle school!

Garden is growing!

Chickens growing despite half the flock being eaten by black cat!

Chickens, radishes and a dog

2009-06-07T12:26:00.002-04:00

We have so much fun with our baby chicks...

doesn't look like Pana is enjoying them a much as we are.

Our first harvest for the garden has been picked...radishes!

Can't wait to deliver them tomorrow.

Hospitality Garden Official Start

2009-06-01T06:18:00.003-04:00

The Hospitality Garden is now planted. Had some friends come yesterday to help get the rest of the fencing up and the garden in the ground. It looks great. Here are a few pictures that Lorrie McVey, the founder of Hospitality House took.

2009-05-29T02:21:00.002-04:00

Had my (and my entire families) first major car accident this week. We were coming home from Memorial Day weekend on I-96 near the Milford exit and our best guess is that the trailer blew a tire (or two). It started fish-tailing and despite Anthony's best efforts, we spun out, smashed into the center cement median wall and then continued to spin until we were 180 degrees facing the oncoming traffic. Anthony's and my airbags went off. Mine and Anthony's doors would hardly open but we managed to all get out of the truck.

Noah was complaining that his chest hurt and Anthony clearly broke his hand so after the EMS, police and fire dept. came, our friend who weren't too far behind us came and took us to the nearest hospital. Noah had x-rays and ended up just having some significant bruising in his chest. Anthony had x-rays and c/t scans that said he had a minor fracture in his shoulder and his hand was confirmed broken (not that we didn't already know). We sat in the ER for 8 hours!! They kept forgetting about us because they had put us in overflow. It was frustrating at the least.

We took Anthony to the ortho on Tuesday and he had to have surgery to put 6 screws and a metal plate in his hand because the bone was broken in three places.

My favorite part of all this...when Anthony was in the pre-op and they has sedated him he was listening to the heart monitor and every once in a while it would go really fast...he said it was the "hotness meter" and clearly "I am very hot". Too Funny!

The boys and I are feeling much better and Anthony is on the mend. He is still taking Vicodin and he's at least sleeping soundly now (which he didn't do last night).

Obviously, we are thankful that things weren't worse and that we didn't hit any other cars or anything. Especially since it was a holiday weekend and the highway was pretty busy. But all this insurance stuff is a pain in the ass. I guess if you pay for it long enough, the day will come when you finally get to use it. We are thinking the truck will be totalled and the camper seems fixable. We should find out more today or Monday.

My guy

2009-05-05T20:11:00.002-04:00

It's no secret that Anthony has struggled with his weight for years. Well, he's been working really, really hard to lose weight and I'm so proud of him.

Here he is before losing 70 pounds.

And here he is after.

He still wants to lose quite a bit more, but I thought 70 pounds was blog-worthy.

My boys...

2009-05-05T19:57:00.003-04:00

How did my kids go from this....

To this???

*last picture courtesy of Melany Hallgren Photography

Handy Men

2009-04-18T12:25:00.002-04:00

Besides all the usual mushy, lovey dovey stuff...I would have to say that having kids is proving to be pretty useful, too. They're old enough now to actually be helpful around the house. Here are some of the chores that you are likely to find my kids doing on any given day. It's pretty handy having these strapping young lads around.

dishes
emptying dishwasher
vacuuming
putting away laundry
moving clothes from washer to dryer
taking clothes out of dryer/off clothes line in summer
cleaning their rooms/making beds
mopping
cleaning pet cages
pruning raspberry bushes
picking up sticks around yard
emptying waste baskets/recycling
taking trash/recycling out to the road
organizing shoe shelf
mopping wood floors
feeding/letting out dog
pulling weeds
clearing table
helping in garden
dusting
unloading groceries
shoveling snow

If you would like to rent them for a day...I'll give you a good deal.

The State of Me

2009-04-17T02:47:00.006-04:00

I haven't posted in a while. Stupid Facebook! Despite my best intentions, it has dragged me away from what I love. What used to be a great outlet for my emotions has become a chore. Why spend 20 plus minutes saying something I can do in 120 characters or less? But, I couldn't sleep so rather than lay there wrestling around in my bed, why not blog...

Here is the state of me...

I'm overwhelmed. Not necessarily because I've taken on too much, not necessarily because there is anything overly stressful going on in my life. I have the usual amount of stress and activity in my life, but yet, I can't seem to function in my usual way. Small, menial tasks stress me out and I have to admit, I probably haven't been the easiest to live with. I fly off the handle easily and get annoyed by the smallest things. I'm sort of a downer and can't seem to find the positive things in my life.

So, a month ago I went to the doctor for a physical. She gave me some choices. She said birth control pills might help make my hormones elevate my mood. So, I gave it a try for a month. Problem is, it made me sick. I threw up on my drive home from the DIA...I threw up and couldn't eat Easter dinner...when I wasn't throwing up, I felt nauseous. It was as if I was pregnant. I still wasn't sleeping and still wasn't feeling any better than before.

So, I went back to the doctor. My next choice was anti-depressants. I just started them yesterday. She warned me that I might feel more anxious for a few days. She didn't warn me that I would feel like I'm crawling out of my skin and feel like I'm on speed. It's like I want to run 100 miles an hour. I got on the elliptical machine last night at 3am and couldn't move fast enough. Hear I am, again, 3am and can't type fast enough. I want to do jumping jacks or something. It's weird. She said it should only last a few days and then I would feel better. I hope that's the case.

And I can't decide if it's the worst part or the best part that almost every time I get up in the middle of the night because I can't sleep, Anthony hears me and gets up with me. He hates that I can't sleep so he gets out of bed and watches tv with me and rubs my shoulders and holds my hand until I feel sleepy enough to go back to bed. One morning, we even did an exercise video together at 4am. He has been so patient. Even as I sit here typing, he's sitting on the computer behind me. When I tell him to please go back to bed, he just says...I love you and want to be with you. I just need to get past this for both our sakes (my words, not his).

So, that's the state of me. I hope I haven't worried you too much (especially you, mom). I think everyone goes through times like this. Like I said, I don't have anything more stressful going on my life than I ever have. I'm not sure what is going on. I am just not like my old self and I'm trying desperately to find her again.

boy turns to man...right before my eyes

2009-03-17T20:54:00.003-04:00

Oh boy...here we go. We went to the pediatrician yesterday. She mentioned that Noah would be going through puberty soon and that he needed to make sure he was showering every day...etc, etc... So, fast forward to later that evening when we went to Target and Noah decided he needed AXE body soap and deoderant.

Now, he is on his second shower in two days. He found this sample thing of AXE body spray in our junk drawer and asked if he could have it. Oh boy, I am so not ready for this.

2009-03-03T21:35:00.002-05:00

We're watching Remember the Titans with the boys. Sam can't wrap his mind around the racial tension of the movie. Every time something happens that has to do with racism, he says..."I don't understand...". For example, a family is sitting in their house and someone throws a rock through the window and Sam says..."Why did they do that?" and we explain about racism. Then, a few minutes later a man is getting chastised by another man for letting his daughter play at the house of an African American family and again Sam says, "I don't get it...why can't she play at their house? " and we explain it again...I'm not joking, at least 5 times we have explained this to him. He just doesn't get it...I love that.

2009-02-25T06:27:00.004-05:00

It's funny how in this day and age, you get to know people online and they really do become your friends and you feel like you know them. I think it's really cool especially when those people live far away and you would never get to really know them if it weren't for this technology. The person I am especially thinking of here is my friend Cara. She lives in Denver and is married to Herb who I knew way back when from my Spring Hill days. We got connected through mutual friends who shared Cara's blog with me a few years ago. Since then, Cara and I have actually met in person on a couple of occasions and we have become pretty good "blog friends". I guess this was a very long, roundabout way to get to the actual point of my post, which is that Cara has started a new blog called "The Marriage Mix".

One of the things I love about Cara is that she doesn't hide herself from people. When she feels bright and cheery, her blog reflects that. When she feels like shit and like her marriage is falling apart...she reflects that too. I find that refreshing when I know most people tend to sugar coat how things really are in their lives. Which, I believe, makes it a heck of a lot harder to know whether the things I deal with are "normal" or not. Does that make sense? Sometimes, I think about my marriage, finances, children, sex life, etc... and wonder...how do I compare? I can guess and imagine, but the truth is I can never really know because no one ever talks about it. Then I feel crazy and self doubt creeps in. Thankfully, there are people like Cara who shares her struggles and successes with me and makes me feel like I'm not alone. That maybe, just maybe, that if she and I share similar issues...we're not the only ones.

Cara asked me and Anthony to do an interview of a about 6-8 questions regarding our marriage so that she could use them on a segment on her blog. We agreed and when the questions came, I'll admit. I was a bit hesitant. they were more personal than I expected. But, I chose not to hold back. Even when Cara sensed my trepidation and wanted to make sure I didn't want to rethink my answers and omit anything. I didn't because I know, even if no one else in the world wants to admit it that my issues are not mine alone. If I can make one person feel less crazy reading my answers then I have done exactly for that one person that Cara does for me and that's a good thing!

Now that I've piqued your curiosity, you're going to rush over to her blog, but she hasn't posted our interview yet, to my knowledge. So you'll have to keep checking. But, read through it anyway. She has some good info. in there. I love the piece from Keith Stills on what it looks like for a man to be a feminist. Check it out.

Conversations with Sam.

2009-02-12T14:42:00.002-05:00

Sam is so sick. I don't think I've seen him like this ever or at least in a very long time. He's going to miss the entire week of school. He can't talk and when he does he loses his breath. Still, there's his funny side...

When I called today from work to check on him and to see if he'd been to the dr. this is the conversation we had...

Mom: Did you go to the doctor?
Sam: Yes, she stuck this long q-tip in my nose. It felt like a shot.
Mom: What did she say?
Sam: If the test comes back positive, I have the flu and there's nothing we can do but wait.
Mom: and if it's negative?
Sam: Then I have Amnesia.
Mom: (Laughs) You mean Pneumonia?
Sam: Yeah, that.

So, we are waiting for doctors office to call to see if we wait it out or go in for chest x-rays. Ugh!

A fun night for all

2009-02-06T06:44:00.003-05:00

Last night we went to a benefit concert for a family at our school who's son was diagnosed a year ago with Muscular Dystrophy. It was such a fun time! The kids loved it and thought it was the greatest thing ever to be standing right up by the stage as these bands performed.

However, I think Sam caught an eyeful of something that neither of us expected during a fashion show that they did between bands...

In car on ride home...

Sam: Mom, during the fashion show, I saw this girl and she had underwear on in the front, but not in the back.

Me: What???

Sam: Well, she had these sort of pants on and you could tell she had underwear on in front, but not in the back.

Dad: *giggling*-that's called a thong.

Sam: Ewww...*shudders*

2009-01-20T06:38:00.002-05:00

Ellis, my niece, turned 5. She and I made this cake together. The three princesses are her and her friends that came to the party. The party was at Bonaventure roller skating rink. It was so fun!

Martin Luther King Day 2009

2009-01-19T08:19:00.003-05:00

On the back page of the Free Press is an artists rendering of eleven African American people that have helped bring our country to where it is today in the long struggle for equal rights. It shows the faces of people like Frederick Douglass, Ida B. Wells, Malcolm X, Dr. King and of course, Barack Obama and others. As I explained to Sam who these people were and what they did in regards the civil rights movement, I was overcome with emotion.

I don't know what it's like to be judged by the color of my skin. I don't know what it's like to have had parents, grandparents and extended grandparents that have endured slavery and such terrible discrimination. I don't know what it was like to participate in a civil rights march and listen as Dr. King delivers a speach that put into effect changes that we are priveleged to see the fruit of today. As I painted a picture for Sam to explain the history of the African American people and why this inauguration was a momentous occasion, I tried to put myself in their shoes and how could I not be moved to tears?

Desperation!

2009-01-14T20:04:00.002-05:00

Rumor has it that it may be COLD enough tomorrow for a snow day...er, freeze day, I guess...

Here is a list of the kids snow day ritual...the list has grown from last time.

Spoons under pillows and mattress

Boiling snow on the stove

orange in freezer

yelling "ICE DAY" into the freezing

Throw and ice cube at a tree

pj's inside out and backward

performing a native american type snow day dance and chant "cold day...cold day...change the world to a cold day...we want a snow day...COOOOOOLLLLLDDDDD DDDDAAAAYYYYY!!'

Throw ice cube behind you into toilet...both toilets!

Put a dollar under pillow and if they get the snow day then they give the dollar to charity.

Throw the boiled snow out the window.

It will be so sad if they don't get their day...

Debbie Downer

2009-01-01T09:02:00.003-05:00

I might as well say it, since I'm thinking it, since I'm not a superstitious person. I am not optimistic about 2009. I don't know why. It's just a general feeling. I don't really enjoy the feeling of the unknown. I know what 2008 held...mostly good things. But I don't know what 2009 will hold and it feels a little bit like standing on the edge of the abyss...and I don't like that feeling.

Instead of looking at all the excitement and good that could happen, I find myself wondering what negative things could happen. I'm not usually this much of a downer, but this year, for whatever reason...this is how I'm feeling. Just bein' honest.

Windy City

2008-12-30T21:34:00.002-05:00

Instead of a big Christmas, we decided to keep things small and head to Chicago for some culture and family togetherness. We stayed in the Holiday Inn downtown for five days and went to the Museum of Science and Industry, Shedd Aquarium, shopping and Blue Man Group. It was a lot of fun. I LOVE traveling.

2008-12-24T12:03:00.004-05:00

Pana loves presents. On Christmas morning, he tries to steal ours out of our laps. He knows his presents are in my closet so every day he stands in my room staring at the closet doors as if the presents are magically going to open for him. He cracks me up.

We decided to go ahead and give him one of his presents today. Here he is opening it and running away with it in fear of Sam taking it from him.

Venting

2008-12-23T12:32:00.002-05:00

At what point does one end a family relationship? I am at a point with a member of my family that has stepped on my heart so many times, over and over again that I am DONE! I have put up with this for over 20 years. Ending it isn't easy...but at the same time, continually putting myself in a spot that I am constantly hurt is really wearing. What about others that are involved...can I end one relationship while maintaining the rest...oh, I don't know what to do...

baby booties and hanukkah

2008-12-22T12:33:00.003-05:00

At 3am when Pana's nails were making so much noise on my floor...this seemed like a good idea.

We thought it would be fun to have some Jewish foods for this Sunday's dinner since it was the first day of Hanukkah. I made some vegetable kugel, fruit compote and latke's. We also had spiced red wine and cheese blintzes. It was fun. The kids played dredel with Hanukkah gelt and even got to open one present. Fun was had by all.

Polar Bear Club

2008-12-20T09:15:00.004-05:00

Most kids go sledding on snow days...not mine.

(what you can't see in the videos is that they're jumping back in the hot tub.)

Detroit Free Press

2008-12-18T14:34:00.002-05:00

So, the paper I read every morning is undertaking a historical leap, I understand it's the first mainstream paper to make such a decision. Due to cutbacks and lack of money we found out yesterday that starting in March they are going to only do home delivery three days a week. They will give subscribers the ability to go to a website just for them that we will be able to read it there. People will still be able to get the paper from a box at the store.

I get it. I even like the idea of using so much less paper...but... I REALLY like reading the paper. I like the way it feels in my hands and I like sitting there with my tea and reading as I eat my breakfast or lunch depending on the day. Yes, I DO read the paper EVERY day.

Reading the paper from my computer just won't be the same. There is more to reading the newspaper than getting news. It's a relaxing thing for many people. It feels good to take a break, sit back and take in information on the world. There aren't many other publications where there is a section for everyone. Often, on Saturday mornings you will find Anthony with the front section, Noah with Sports, Sam with comics and me with the Life section...all sitting together in the kitchen eating our breakfast and chatting back and forth with what we just read. It won't be the same if we all have to go to our separate computers to read it. Most days...I probably won't even bother.

I know that I could switch papers and read the Detroit News, but I really feel that this is the beginning of the end. If this works for the Freep, then it likely will be catching. I don't think that all things are so great when it comes to moving forward into the technology age. The more time we spend getting our info. on computers, iphones and such, the less time we are spending together in real conversation. It really makes me quite sad.

2008-12-17T21:54:00.003-05:00

Nicole nominated me for a Christmas Spirit Award.

Here are the rules - You must be a true Christmas lover to accept this award.- The person to whom you give the award must also be in love with Christmas.- You must link back to the person who gave you the award.- You must list 5 things that you love about Christmas. If you can’t limit it to 5 things, then keep going until you run out of space!- Pass the award along to as many people as you like. That can be 1 or 45; it’s up to you. You must pass it on to at least one person in order to keep the Christmas cheer going.- Let your recipients know that you have tagged them by leaving them a comment on their blog.

Things I love about Christmas...

Advent

Christmas Trees

Plastic Snowmen

Discussing every year to not buy for everyone, but doing it anyway, because we just can't resist.

Christmas Cards, pictures and letters

Egg Nog

Dressing my dog like Santa

A Christmas Story...the movie

Candles

Wrapping paper

Snow

Christmas Lights

Anything shiny or sparkly

CHRISTMAS BREAK! (sleeping in, staying in jammies, etc...)

Mickey's Christmas Carol

Elves

Sarah Mclachlan's Wintersong

Grandma and Grandpa coming over for breakfast

Stockings hung by the chimney with care...or in our case the wood burning stove

I'll stop now, but I could go on forever.

And I'm tagging...

Cara because her last post was spot on about Christmas.

Good old fashioned fun

2008-12-17T19:56:00.002-05:00

We strung popcorn for my little tree tonight. I'm so "suzy homemaker" this Christmas that it makes even me want to vomit! I told Anthony that I wished he could play the fiddle so we could really be like Little House on the Prairie.

Really, how many santas does one really need??

2008-12-17T13:47:00.004-05:00

This is the view down my sidewalk.

Melany's suggestion was to hide them in trees and stuff, which would have been funny, but I don't have enough extention cords.

You can't see the other in this picture, but in total, I have four Santas.

I think those are what I will be selling.

I decided to keep Frosty inside where I can gaze upon him and he will make me smile.

Christmas Miracle (or not)

2008-12-15T19:19:00.004-05:00

The top picture is the snowman that has graced my mom's porch since I was very little (she had my stepdad take a picture and send it to me). We call him Frosty and he's circa 1963. For whatever reason, I become very nostalgic during Christmas (remember my tree?) So, I have been searching high and low to find one for my own house. Most that I have found have been going for about $55, but shipping is an additional $80 because it's so big.

I finally found a snowman not too far away but the catch was that the guy was selling 7 other ones. I had Anthony call him and he said that he wouldn't piece it out but was selling them all for $150. Anthony offered him $100 for the lot thinking we could sell them off individually. The guy said no, but said he had them on Ebay if we wanted to try there. So, we did. Apparently, only one other person is as tacky as us and wanted them and even he didn't want them that bad because we won the lot for $26.50!!

Anthony is going to pick them up tomorrow and for this year, just for fun and giggles, we are going to put them all up in our yard, then we'll sell them individually keeping only the one(s) we want.

So, if you want a vintage blow mold santa, reindeer, elf, teddy bear, etc...let me know. I'll hook you up!

2008-12-13T07:57:00.002-05:00

In todays Detroit Free Press there was a 28 page spread of home and business foreclosures in Oakland County. I saw it and just started crying. Can you believe it? And, to kick 'em when they're down, they print their names as well. I know that this isn't news to many of you that they do this, but it was to me. However, I understand that usually it's only a little tiny blurb in the paper as opposed to two full sections with teeny tiny print.

It's one thing to hear about a bad economy and home foreclosures, but to actually see it in print was completely overwhelming to me! If something doesn't give, it feels like there are going to be a lot of homes that are empty with a bunch of people on the streets that don't have anywhere to live...it's just outrageous!!!

2008-12-11T06:50:00.002-05:00

This was so much fun! I would see it again and again. I just love the theater, anyway, but this show was great! Last night was opening night, so you can still get tickets if you want to go.

Inspired

2008-12-09T18:27:00.005-05:00

I was inspired today at school. In our building we house the Head Start and GSRP preschools which often times are children that come from very low income homes. Since our school is right next to St. Williams Church, they often adopt families from these programs. I had the blessing to be downstairs as a mom came in to pick up her gifts from the office.

She came in and when she was handed her gifts, she was speechless. It wasn't much, just a couple of large bags with snow pants, 1-2 toys, pajamas, socks, underwear, etc... She started to cry and said repeatedly, I can't believe someone would do this for my son.

When I got home from school, I, coincidentally (or not) had an email from the Pontiac Rescue Mission saying they still had 150 families needing "adopting" for the holidays. I know that like everyone, we're cutting back in a lot of ways and I hadn't planned on adopting a family like we have in past years. But seeing this mom made me realize how much extra we have and that certainly, I can dig a little deeper to help a mom stand a bit firmer on her feet during these extremely difficult times. If we're feeling a little pinch, it's got to be excruciating for someone in her position.

So, without even asking Anthony (because he's out of town), the boys and I adopted a single mom and 3 year old boy that have basic needs. Snowsuit and boots for the little guy, coat for mom. It can't be easy asking strangers to buy you bras, socks and underwear. Plus, a couple small extras just for fun.

If you live in this area and have anything extra to spare, consider this organization. Even multiple families, organizations or work places can get in together to help out a family. Just a thought. If you want more info, let me know.

2008-12-07T04:01:00.002-05:00

Have a swell Christmas!

Three in one day...I couldn't help myself

2008-12-02T22:40:00.003-05:00

I figure I might as well get it all in while I feel like it...you never know when the mood will strike me again.

Another funny thing from Sam today.

Sam: Mom, will you rub my arms? I am so sore from shoveling the driveway yesterday.

Me: Sure. (start rubbing his shoulders and arms)

Sam: Oooooohhhh....It hurts so good!!

Where does the kid get this stuff??

Christmas Warm Fuzzies

2008-12-02T21:29:00.007-05:00

I love getting ready for Christmas. We put lights on the house, get our trees, decorate them and I just love, love, love it! This year I got a tree for the dining room. Just an itty bitty one and put all the ornaments that my mom has collected for me since I was born along with the ones that my great grandmother and grandmother made. I always feel so nostalgic and connected to my roots when I take out these ornaments every year. I decided they needed a special tree of honor.

Here we are at Broadview Tree Farm picking out our trees.

Ellis, Alice, Kraig, Melany, Owen, Sam, Noah, Me and Anthony

The Gambee Family with our little tree.

It was Noah's year to pick the tree, therefore his year to cut it down too.

Here's my little table top tree with all my old ornaments on it. This tree just makes me warm and fuzzy on the inside. I love it so much! I wish I could keep it up forever.

This is one of the ornaments my grandma made. Pace is my mom's maiden name.

One of my oldest ornaments. (I know, blurry, but you get the idea)

More decorations made and owned by my great-grandma and my grandma.

Here's our family tree, underneath is the tree skirt my mom made for us a few years ago.

Here's our festive house. Not so much that it's like Christmas gone wild, but just a few tasteful lights and candle lights in the windows. See my little tree in the window? *sigh* (Blurry again, I know)

My Silly Sam

2008-12-02T14:13:00.002-05:00

Last night Sam...

slept with his pajamas inside out,

wore two pairs of underwear inside out,

flushed two ice cubes down the toilet,

drank melted snow,

slept with two spoons under his pillow...

because someone told him that if he did anyone of these things, there would be a snow day and he wouldn't have to go to school. He figured he'd do them all...and...

it didn't work. So sad!

Vintage Christmas

2008-11-24T06:45:00.001-05:00

We did our christmas card pictures last night. I can't wait to get them made and send them out!!

Elfin around

2008-11-21T17:04:00.001-05:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

2008-11-20T22:46:00.003-05:00

I'm sorry, but what the hell is going on with Izzy on Grey's Anatomy??? This is getting a bit too weird...she's having sex with a dead guy?

It takes so little to make them happy.

2008-11-18T18:28:00.003-05:00

I always know when my kids "love banks" are full. Tonight, Anthony and I hung christmas lights on the house and when we came in, Noah and Sam, while wearing their nicest clothes, sat us down and gave us hand written menus. We checked off what we wanted to eat and drink and then sat and talked while the boys prepared our dinner. I had eggs and toast and tea and Anthony had cereal, english muffin and kool aid. Then they turned down the lights and created a romantic atmosphere with a candle. Then they cleaned up all the dishes before they made themselves bowls of ice cream. So sweet!

We realized that it takes so little to fill them up. We played games and read books last night. Then, today, Anthony played a silly video game that they rented with them and that made them completely happy! I love them so much!!

Thirteen years ago today...

2008-11-16T18:33:00.003-05:00

I was in college. It was the day before Thanksgiving break and my friends were trying desperately to get me to go to Indianapolis with them. I didn't want to go. I had so much to do and was so tired. But they were persistent and I finally relented. As we drove to this restaurant in Indy, I commented on a horse and carriage and how romantic it was. As we approached the restaurant that we were to eat at which happened to be the same as where the carriage was, I realized that it was Anthony standing there by them. He took my hand and helped me into a carriage. I was in shock. We rode to a local park where we got out and walked for a few minutes. We stopped in front of the fountain where Anthony got down on one knee and proposed with the most beautiful ring. I said yes. We stood by the fountain for a long time and then we walked back to the carriage. As we drove back, Anthony put headphones on my ears where he had recorded himself singing such a sweet song.

Then we rode to a perfect restaurant and on the table was a beautiful crystal vase (that I use every time Anthony gives me flowers now) with a bouquet of flowers in it. Then when we were done eating, we got into a limousine. In the limo, Anthony had put a scrapbook that I had been keeping since we started dating and we looked through it together. Then we stopped at another place where we got out and danced to Warm and Tender Love by Percy Sledge. As we danced I noticed someone taking pictures of us and learned that Anthony had brought along a friend that followed us in secret taking pictures of our night so that we would have them in the future.

We drove back to my dorm where all my friends came running out to greet us and congratulate us. Then, as Anthony drove away, they dragged me upstairs to recount my romantic night.

My one true love

2008-11-11T16:37:00.002-05:00

To counter my last crabby at my husband post, I will write one that sings his praises...he really is such a nice guy!

1. The Media Specialist at school today chatted with me about how sweet it was that Anthony offered to take her son who has Down's Syndrome on days when her son doesn't have school and usually has to come to school with her which makes her day more difficult. Anthony said that since he's home working anyway, it's no big deal if her son comes to hang out with him.

2. I was sick last night and grumpy about a difficult meeting we had at work and then Anthony told me at the last minute that he had to leave for an hour which made me even more grumpy. While I stewed quietly downstairs about having to make dinner and trying to figure out how I was best going to yell at him, he beat me at my own game when I heard him tell the boys that he would come back with dinner and to just let me rest until he came back. (he didn't even know I was mad)

3. Anthony has been working his ass off...literally...and has lost 50 pounds (since his highest ever weight) and is still going. He has dropped 7 pant sizes. I am so proud of him!!

2008-11-09T15:17:00.003-05:00

Anthony took my car keys in his pocket to the Lions game thereby forcing me to be left home all day with Sam. We had plans to go to the mall and go see Madagascar 2. Sam took it much better than I did.

I was furious, but I'm better now. Sam and I made cookies, watched a movie, re-covered the bench in the dining room and played games. It actually turned out to be a fun mom and son day at home. I would thank my hubby, but I'm still a little pissed and I'm not sure I'm sharing my cookies with him.

Fun Fact

2008-11-06T22:09:00.004-05:00

An old friend of ours who moved to California to pursue an acting career was one of the corpses on Grey's Anatomy last night. Cool, huh? Go Luke! (Yes, that's him above)

History

2008-11-05T16:51:00.004-05:00

Anthony showed me this picture this morning. I thought it was blog-worthy. I don't care who you voted for, there is no denying that it's pretty cool to see this kind of historical significance. I remember as a kid people saying that in my lifetime there would be an African American president and a woman president...we're half-way there.

all about alice

2008-11-04T21:14:00.002-05:00

Alice asked me to fill this out for her...all the questions are about her. So, here you go.

Where did we meet?____Through your son.
Take a stab at my nickname? Granny, Meme

Do I smoke? Nope

What's my favorite type of music? Josh Grobin and praise and worship

Am I shy or outgoing? ha! outgoing

Am I a rebel or do I follow the rules? You mostly follow the rules.

Any special talents? leg wrestling

How many children do I have? 4 (incl. me and kraig) technically, but I know many that you love like your own.

If you and I were stranded on a deserted island, what is one thing that I would bring? your grandkids

2008-11-04T09:56:00.003-05:00

I voted. It was harder than I anticipated it would be. I was solid on my choice until this week as I talked through stuff with my hubby. I almost didn't vote for president at all, but decided that was a cop out. So, we went to the polls, took the kids, talked them through the process and they watched us vote...now we'll wait, like everyone else, to see what happens!

*the shirt is for Tony who wasn't going to vote this year.

True Love Forever

2008-11-02T18:38:00.001-05:00

Happy Anniversary to us!!

Scooby Doo Where Are You?

2008-11-01T07:51:00.004-04:00

Indiana Jones and a Spider Man
Shaggy and Daphne

Preschool Halloween Party

2008-10-30T15:13:00.003-04:00

Here's my preschool Halloween Costume.

Fall Fun

2008-10-28T21:08:00.004-04:00

We carved pumpkins at gramma and grampas tonight. I made the coolest jack 0' lantern I've ever done before. I even used a Dremel power tool to do it because it's not really a pumpkin, it's some kind of gourd so it was really hard to get a knife through it.

I made the owl, my brother in law Kraig made Belle for my neice Ellis.

2008-10-27T16:39:00.004-04:00

Here is my updated look. New haircut, new color (although, it's my natural color) and new glasses.

Hangin' with my boy

2008-10-27T16:31:00.004-04:00

I spent the day with Noah at the Detroit Science Center. We had the best time just the two of us. It's hard for Noah and I to connect because there really isn't a lot that we have as far as common interests. But I do love the museum and so does he. It was so great to hang with him and just really realize what a young man he is becoming. I know he's only (almost) eleven, but he's so mature for his age and it was really cool to hang with him.

The museum was doing a Leonardo Da Vinci exhibit. They had this cool frame that you could take pictures in. So, here's Noah in it.

Full Disclosure

2008-10-27T16:23:00.004-04:00

I know, I know...I can't believe I'm admitting this but i really like the Jonas Brothers Love Bug song. It's just catchy and cute. The video is cute too.

*If it saves face at all, it's the only song I know of theirs and I only just learned it was them yesterday.

2008-10-18T21:20:00.003-04:00

Tonight we went to a Halloween Party.

Sam-Indiana Jones

Kelli-50's housewife

Tony-50's husband

Noah-Shaggy

The first of many rantings about my son

2008-10-15T16:22:00.003-04:00

Ugh! Having a son that is getting ready to go through puberty is proving to be one of the hardest things I've had to endure as a parent. Don't get me wrong, he's a great kid overall and I know these things are normal, but at times he can be such a pain the ass that I want to banish him to his room for the next 10 years!

Here is what I'm experiencing on a near daily basis:

Eye rolling

Severely bad attitude

Moodiness

Negotiations over everything: homework, friends, chores, showering...

If I hear the word "FINE!!" one more time I'm going to choke him

Grumpiness when things don't go just his way

Sleeping a lot later and he's hard to wake up

Doesn't want me to be at school as much anymore

Wants to hang with friends every single day

Body Odor!!!!

Apathy

Constant eating

Laziness

Clearly, I can do nothing right

Clearly, I don't know anything

It's just a frustrating time of life. Friends of mine that have adult children say that this is the just the tip of the iceberg and that it only gets worse...can't wait!!

Something to do when hubby is away

2008-10-14T21:53:00.002-04:00

Alice asked me to do this...

Two Names You Go By:
1 Mom

2. Aunt Kelli

Two Things You Are Wearing Right Now:
1. comfy, flowery, pajama pants

2. ratty t-shirt with trees on it

Two Things You Want Very Badly At The Moment:
1. My husband to be home

2. For there to be something worth watching on TV

Two Things You Did Last Night:

1. Watched School of Rock with all my boys

2. Slept pretty good

Two Things You Ate Yesterday:
1. Applesauce

2. Tim Horton's Cheese Crescent (thank you, Charity!)

Two People You Last Talked To By Phone:
1. Anthony

2. Candi

Two Things You Are Doing Tomorrow:
1. Negotiating with four year olds

2. Taking said four year olds to get their school pictures taken...oh joy!

        Two Longest Car Rides:
        1. Walled Lake, MI to Santa Cruz, California

2. Walled Lake, MI to Miami, FL

Two Favorite Holidays:
1. My birthday (it's a national holiday ya know?)

2. Thanksgiving

Favorite Vacations

1. Gambee Adventure of a Lifetime
2. Disney, Disney, Disney, Disney... ... ...

Two Favorite Beverages:
1. Earl Grey Tea with cream and sugar

2. Dirty Girl Scout Martini--tastes like a thin mint cookie

Hospitality Garden Groundbreaking!!

2008-10-12T08:04:00.003-04:00

Today we put in the ground for the garden. What a beautiful day it was to do it too! It was a multi-step process. Instead of tilling and pulling up the grass and such we used a style called "lasagna gardening" where you layer and layer different organic materials and then cover with a tarp to compost over the winter. The result will hopefully be soil that is rich in nutrients where our little seedlings will find a happy home and take root to turn into nutritious veggies for families that could use 'em. I think if I were an eathworm, I would want to live in our garden.

Sam and I in front of the pile of Peat Moss that was donated by Suburban Landscape Supply and Compost donated by Paul Sechrist of Orchard Grove Church....THANK YOU!!
The first step in lasagna gardening is covering the ground with a thick layer of newspaper.
Then we covered the paper with a layer of compost-mostly decayed grass clippings and leaves. The Bobcat rental was donated by Chet's Rental in Novi. This was Tony's favorite job ever.
Our neighbor was cutting down a tree so Tony borrowed his chipper and chopped it up to throw in the garden as well.

We used the hose to keep the paper wet so it wouldn't blow away and so it would start to smother the grass underneath.

We took a break for Cider and Donuts from Long's Orchard.

After Tony dumped the different layers, we would rake and rake. The layers you don't get to see because we got busy and forgot to take more pictures is after the compost came peat, then we used a layer of dry leaves, chicken bedding, hay and wood shavings. Then another layer of compost and finally another layer of peat. I threw some bone meal on top for some added nitrogen and we were done!

Here's the crew! You can't see it very well, but it's Alice, Me, my friend Beth, Tony, Noah, Sam, Owen and Ellis.

Four, Four, Four, Four

2008-10-02T15:52:00.003-04:00

Alice sent this to me via email:

Four places that I go to over and over: My school, my kids school, Target, my bedroom

Four people who e-mail me regularly:Alice, Anthony, Beth and The Gap

Four of my favorite places to eat: Olive Garden, Melting Pot, Einstein's Bagels, Mel's Diner

Four places I would rather be right now: Disney World, Australia, New York City, in my bed.

Four TV shows I watch: Grey's Anatomy, SNL, How I Met Your Mother, Friends re-runs.

Gambee Cat

2008-10-02T11:07:00.004-04:00

This is our cat. We call her freckles. Well, she's the neighbor's cat really (the one I wrote about before) and we found out her actual name is Lola. She comes by here nearly every day. She'll stroll up to the back door, peek in and if she's sees someone she'll stand up and sort of tap the window so someone will come out and play with her. We give her treats.

Funny thing is...Pana is afraid of her. As you can see in the picture, he will venture to the edge of the door and peak out but will go no further. He just stands there shaking. There was a brief time that he would go out and try to play, but she intimidated him with her quick movements. Now, if he's outside, and she comes around, he goes around to the front of the house to be let in the front door far away from her. Weird dog.