Really, he was!
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Quick Update
I ordered a cake for my birthday today. We're having a mint chocolate chip ice cream cake from Baskin-Robbins. YEAH!
Here's a clip from Ethan's concert last night. :P
Here's a clip from Ethan's concert last night. :P
Monday, December 18, 2006
8 days until my birthday!
That means just a week until Christmas!
On Dec 9, I took Sam, Joe and Ethan and accompanied my mom and Bo to see The Nutcracker. It was fabulous! I love The Nutcracker.
That evening, we had our annual holiday potluck. It was lots of fun! Thanks so much to those of you who came! We’re sorry not everyone could attend and we missed you (you know who you are)! We played Taboo until late into the night! PJ took the kids Christmas shopping on Sunday while I cleaned up.
This past weekend, we had a lot going on…in addition to the regular household chores, we had three parties on Saturday to attend and then on Sunday we could hardly get moving. We got quite a bit done around the house…okay, PJ did; I napped. LOL
PJ got an A in both of his classes! Yay for PJ!!
Joe has a Fashion Show at school tonight, something with DECA.
Ethan has a Winter Concert tomorrow night at the school. Should be interesting.
Dawn is due in two days. The big question is whether or not she’s going to have that baby then! We can’t wait to meet the little guy!
I’m all done with Christmas shopping though I have a couple gifts left to wrap. I hope to get that done on Thursday night. Woohoo...Christmas here we come!!
On Dec 9, I took Sam, Joe and Ethan and accompanied my mom and Bo to see The Nutcracker. It was fabulous! I love The Nutcracker.
That evening, we had our annual holiday potluck. It was lots of fun! Thanks so much to those of you who came! We’re sorry not everyone could attend and we missed you (you know who you are)! We played Taboo until late into the night! PJ took the kids Christmas shopping on Sunday while I cleaned up.
This past weekend, we had a lot going on…in addition to the regular household chores, we had three parties on Saturday to attend and then on Sunday we could hardly get moving. We got quite a bit done around the house…okay, PJ did; I napped. LOL
PJ got an A in both of his classes! Yay for PJ!!
Joe has a Fashion Show at school tonight, something with DECA.
Ethan has a Winter Concert tomorrow night at the school. Should be interesting.
Dawn is due in two days. The big question is whether or not she’s going to have that baby then! We can’t wait to meet the little guy!
I’m all done with Christmas shopping though I have a couple gifts left to wrap. I hope to get that done on Thursday night. Woohoo...Christmas here we come!!
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
My 50th Post!
I'm at a mini-milestone...the 50th post. LOL
Anyway, I was writing to say that we successfully had Verizon FiOS installed today. PJ worked for hours setting up our network again...reconfiguring it and all. But it all seems to work like a charm. And supposedly I can upload pictures even faster. Look out blogworld...here I come! HAHAHAHAH
Oh wait...that would mean I'd have to be better about TAKING and DOWNLOADING pictures first. *sigh* I guess I can't win 'em all....
I'll take pictures of the house before the party this weekend. We have to finish cleaning up before I'm willing to take pictures. I'll be sure to get the decorations and tree too!
Later Gators!
Anyway, I was writing to say that we successfully had Verizon FiOS installed today. PJ worked for hours setting up our network again...reconfiguring it and all. But it all seems to work like a charm. And supposedly I can upload pictures even faster. Look out blogworld...here I come! HAHAHAHAH
Oh wait...that would mean I'd have to be better about TAKING and DOWNLOADING pictures first. *sigh* I guess I can't win 'em all....
I'll take pictures of the house before the party this weekend. We have to finish cleaning up before I'm willing to take pictures. I'll be sure to get the decorations and tree too!
Later Gators!
Monday, December 04, 2006
22 days until my birthday!!
"It's the most wonderful time of the year...."
PJ and I had a nice weekend...we got a lot done. The tree is up, the Christmas cards are out, some presents are even wrapped! The outside decorations are done. We went to PJ's Christmas party (the first one, SPS). Here's me in my dress. Silly me forgot to take my camera so I couldn't get any good pics of the coworkers...
Megan had surgery on Thursday, 11/30. She had to have tubes put into her ears as she had a lot of fluid build up. She's doing very well now though AND she can hear again!
I received a letter from my cousin, Joel, and his wife today. I haven't talked to him in several years, so I was pretty surprised. He and his new wife seem to be doing well.
We're getting Verizon FiOS and I'm looking forward to leaving Adelphia.
Saturday, 12/9 at 2pm, I'm going to see The Nutcracker! I'm taking a couple of the kids too.
Our Christmas Party is Dec 9 at 7pm. You're all invited. :) We hope you can come!
PJ and I had a nice weekend...we got a lot done. The tree is up, the Christmas cards are out, some presents are even wrapped! The outside decorations are done. We went to PJ's Christmas party (the first one, SPS). Here's me in my dress. Silly me forgot to take my camera so I couldn't get any good pics of the coworkers...
Megan had surgery on Thursday, 11/30. She had to have tubes put into her ears as she had a lot of fluid build up. She's doing very well now though AND she can hear again!
I received a letter from my cousin, Joel, and his wife today. I haven't talked to him in several years, so I was pretty surprised. He and his new wife seem to be doing well.
We're getting Verizon FiOS and I'm looking forward to leaving Adelphia.
Saturday, 12/9 at 2pm, I'm going to see The Nutcracker! I'm taking a couple of the kids too.
Our Christmas Party is Dec 9 at 7pm. You're all invited. :) We hope you can come!
Sunday, November 26, 2006
How could I forget?!
On 11/12 we had our family pictures taken and a few friends over. I'll share the pictures with you soon....
Happy (Belated) Thanksgiving!
Sorry I'm a bit behind here....we've been busy. Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving!
So, here's a quick recap for the last couple of weeks and whatnot.
So, here's a quick recap for the last couple of weeks and whatnot.
- On 11/11, Megan had an Upward Soccer Game at her church. They lost, but she had fun!
- Ethan's team party was on 11/13. It was at Glory Days and was pretty fun.
- On 11/16, Rumor was spayed. She did great and has recovered nicely. I'm going to see about having her stitches removed on Tuesday.
- 11/17 was Belynda's birthday party. Being "home alone" that night, I swung by for dinner and to celebrate. I saw several girlfriends I hadn't seen in a few months! Dad and co., left for Europe this day too.
- 11/18...PJ and I had a date! We saw Casino Royale and stopped by Kevin & Annie's new house.
- 11/21, I helped with distributing pies as a fundraiser for Ethan's middle school.
- 11/23 - Thanksgiving...it was a good day. Picked up the kids in the afternoon and hung out with PJ's family. Here's what we did after eating...
We made some ornaments!
- We had the kids all day Friday and then the whole weekend. So, we set up the Christmas decorations, hung lights, etc. We also did all those boring "chores" we have to do each week.
Here's a pic of our new "trees." 
- Today, we had a surprise party for Chris' girlfriend, Mary. She thought we were going out to dinner. Heeheehee!
- Only 30 days until my birthday!!!!
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Get out and vote!
PJ and I both voted this morning first thing! Now maybe all those negative ads will be off the TV!!! ARGH! And, fortunately, we don't have to wait for the CA polls to close. I should know the results before I go to bed tonight! Yippeee!!
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Monday, October 30, 2006
Still Here...
Wow…a busy few weeks. Let me recap!
Joe & Sam had homecoming. They had a good time.
We survived Discovery Park. Actually, the food aspect went off pretty well. There were a few days when I was short-staffed (okay, every day), but we managed to have enough food for everyone who volunteered! There were many generous restaurants. I’m in the process of writing my thank you notes now. (pictures at www.sullypto.com)
Ethan’s fall season has ended. His very last game was cancelled due to foul weather. It was a blessing in disguise as I had a lot to get done this past weekend. At any rate, the team did very well and I think they were second on league standings. No more sports for him until the spring. J
Megan has started Upward Soccer. Her first game is next week, I think. I have it on the calendar.
This past weekend we were busy with stuff around the house, but it wasn’t so packed that we couldn’t relax some. Aside from the usual chores – bathrooms, vacuuming, laundry, etc., we also baked cupcakes and made popcorn balls. We had a “make your own pizza night” for dinner and we carved pumpkins. The kids did a great job on the pumpkins this year and since they’re all older…neither PJ nor I had to do much helping! Yay!
My mom’s truck was stolen last week. Um…Thursday, I think. They (the cops?) found it on Sunday and my mom should be hearing about the condition of the truck soon. Still waiting for an update there.
This coming weekend is Dawn’s baby shower. My mom and I will be trekking down to Raleigh. Heidi will be flying down on Friday. It should be a good time, but I need to finish wrapping the gifts!
Getting my nails done tonight! Yay!
Echo has a new pair of pajamas. Isn’t she cute?
Joe & Sam had homecoming. They had a good time.
We survived Discovery Park. Actually, the food aspect went off pretty well. There were a few days when I was short-staffed (okay, every day), but we managed to have enough food for everyone who volunteered! There were many generous restaurants. I’m in the process of writing my thank you notes now. (pictures at www.sullypto.com)
Ethan’s fall season has ended. His very last game was cancelled due to foul weather. It was a blessing in disguise as I had a lot to get done this past weekend. At any rate, the team did very well and I think they were second on league standings. No more sports for him until the spring. J
Megan has started Upward Soccer. Her first game is next week, I think. I have it on the calendar.
This past weekend we were busy with stuff around the house, but it wasn’t so packed that we couldn’t relax some. Aside from the usual chores – bathrooms, vacuuming, laundry, etc., we also baked cupcakes and made popcorn balls. We had a “make your own pizza night” for dinner and we carved pumpkins. The kids did a great job on the pumpkins this year and since they’re all older…neither PJ nor I had to do much helping! Yay!
My mom’s truck was stolen last week. Um…Thursday, I think. They (the cops?) found it on Sunday and my mom should be hearing about the condition of the truck soon. Still waiting for an update there.
This coming weekend is Dawn’s baby shower. My mom and I will be trekking down to Raleigh. Heidi will be flying down on Friday. It should be a good time, but I need to finish wrapping the gifts!
Getting my nails done tonight! Yay!
Echo has a new pair of pajamas. Isn’t she cute?
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
ARGH!!!!
I just discovered that while cleaning up some links that I may have ruined your ability to check various links to pictures from previous entries. Should you discover that I've done that, please let me know (leave a comment) and I'll try to correct them. *sigh*
Friday, October 06, 2006
Yes, I'm still here...
Sorry I’ve been such a slacker at updating. We’ve been so busy!
I have no idea where I left off on Ethan’s baseball updates. The team has a winning record though. Ethan has claimed that he wants to play football next fall. We’ll keep you posted.
The dogs are all doing pretty well. Rumor is in heat. Oh so much fun. We’ll be having her spayed soon as I can hardly deal with all the extra work and clean-up. I’ll try to remember to post a picture of her in her diaper. HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!
As silly as it sounds, the dogs got pajamas about two weeks ago. I do have a picture of that. I’ll post soon.
The Aerosmith concert was good. I would say it’s awesome, but I didn’t think they played long enough. I think they have like 500 good songs and only played like five. Hmph! Joe had a good time. Sam and Ethan had a decent time. Megan was miserable.
PJ left this morning for a rally race with Brent. I have no idea where they are now, but they are racing from Maine to NY. I think. I can’t be sure I have the right states. I’ll update you when he comes back.
DCSportChick’s birthday party is tonight. I’ll try to remember my camera!
There’s a baby shower tomorrow for a friend in MD and my sister and brother-in-law are in town. We’re having dinner with my dad on Saturday. Sunday, I hope to get all my chores done and rest up. No hubby, no kids…it should be a relaxing weekend!
I have no idea where I left off on Ethan’s baseball updates. The team has a winning record though. Ethan has claimed that he wants to play football next fall. We’ll keep you posted.
The dogs are all doing pretty well. Rumor is in heat. Oh so much fun. We’ll be having her spayed soon as I can hardly deal with all the extra work and clean-up. I’ll try to remember to post a picture of her in her diaper. HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!
As silly as it sounds, the dogs got pajamas about two weeks ago. I do have a picture of that. I’ll post soon.
The Aerosmith concert was good. I would say it’s awesome, but I didn’t think they played long enough. I think they have like 500 good songs and only played like five. Hmph! Joe had a good time. Sam and Ethan had a decent time. Megan was miserable.
PJ left this morning for a rally race with Brent. I have no idea where they are now, but they are racing from Maine to NY. I think. I can’t be sure I have the right states. I’ll update you when he comes back.
DCSportChick’s birthday party is tonight. I’ll try to remember my camera!
There’s a baby shower tomorrow for a friend in MD and my sister and brother-in-law are in town. We’re having dinner with my dad on Saturday. Sunday, I hope to get all my chores done and rest up. No hubby, no kids…it should be a relaxing weekend!
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
Only 96 days until Christmas!
Man! How is it that I'm always behind on these things!?
Kristen & Ben's wedding was a blast! I have pictures somewhere...
Then last week was busy. Ethan has had three games (1 win, 2 losses) so far.
The kids were over this past weekend and we were non-stop. Farewell party at Cathy's for Ramir, Discovery Park stuff, PJ helping his buddy move, a BBQ at Kelly & Matt's place, then cleaning, yardwork, laundry...the whole nine yards. PHEW!
This coming weekend is blessedly less busy. I think we're rearranging the basement. Woohoo!
Kristen & Ben's wedding was a blast! I have pictures somewhere...
Then last week was busy. Ethan has had three games (1 win, 2 losses) so far.
The kids were over this past weekend and we were non-stop. Farewell party at Cathy's for Ramir, Discovery Park stuff, PJ helping his buddy move, a BBQ at Kelly & Matt's place, then cleaning, yardwork, laundry...the whole nine yards. PHEW!
This coming weekend is blessedly less busy. I think we're rearranging the basement. Woohoo!
Friday, September 08, 2006
This is gonna be lonnnnnnnggggggg!
PJ took Megan and Ethan to the Library of Congress (his new job) on Monday, 8/21. They just ran around and had lunch there. 
On Saturday, 08/26, PJ went skydiving again. It's not really my cup of tea, but he had fun. He goes to a place called SkyDive Virginia. Here are some pics from the trip.
Trisha came to hang out with me while PJ was skydiving. We talked about wedding stuff and also went to the Discovery Park Movie Night and helped sell hamburgers and hotdogs. Then she and I went to Cathy and Cesar's house and hung out until the wee hours of the morning. Sunday, we all recuperated. I took Rumor with me to get Ethan and then we went to PetSmart. Now Rumor has a name tag!
On Tuesday, 8/29, at 930, Ethan had to go for a Tetnus booster…now required for all kids before 6th grade in VA. And at 430, the dogs had a check up. Well, Rumor had the check up. Polo had his eye examined and Echo had a little bump looked at. It was quite an adventure to take all three dogs to the vet! LOL. Rumor weighs 28 lbs and got another distemper booster. She also needs to keep gaining weight. Polo weighs 32 lbs (the little porker!) and his eye appears okay and Echo weighs 23 lbs and her little cyst appears to be nothing big.
On Sunday, Sept 3, we had a block party with all the neighbors. It turned out really well! We had two bands play and a DJ. We’re definitely doing it again next year!
The first day of school came and went without incident. Ethan looks ready for sixth grade, huh? He’s playing percussion this year and we just got his instrument.
The baseball game schedule is on the calendar. Ethan's first game is 9/13 at 6pm. All games are at Pioneer Field.
The Discovery Park build is just over a month away. We still have a lot to do on the food committee! AGH! We still need a lot of volunteers!
Tomorrow, Sept 9, we have Ben & Kristen’s wedding! It’ll be fun. I’ll post pics.
Oh…and this just in, we scored tickets for Aerosmith & Motley Crue for September 30! PJ is stoked! He’s taking Joe to visit Christopher Newport University in the morning and then we’re all heading to the concert in the evening. Yippee! I *heart* Aerosmith!
On Saturday, 08/26, PJ went skydiving again. It's not really my cup of tea, but he had fun. He goes to a place called SkyDive Virginia. Here are some pics from the trip.
Trisha came to hang out with me while PJ was skydiving. We talked about wedding stuff and also went to the Discovery Park Movie Night and helped sell hamburgers and hotdogs. Then she and I went to Cathy and Cesar's house and hung out until the wee hours of the morning. Sunday, we all recuperated. I took Rumor with me to get Ethan and then we went to PetSmart. Now Rumor has a name tag!
On Tuesday, 8/29, at 930, Ethan had to go for a Tetnus booster…now required for all kids before 6th grade in VA. And at 430, the dogs had a check up. Well, Rumor had the check up. Polo had his eye examined and Echo had a little bump looked at. It was quite an adventure to take all three dogs to the vet! LOL. Rumor weighs 28 lbs and got another distemper booster. She also needs to keep gaining weight. Polo weighs 32 lbs (the little porker!) and his eye appears okay and Echo weighs 23 lbs and her little cyst appears to be nothing big.
On Sunday, Sept 3, we had a block party with all the neighbors. It turned out really well! We had two bands play and a DJ. We’re definitely doing it again next year!
The first day of school came and went without incident. Ethan looks ready for sixth grade, huh? He’s playing percussion this year and we just got his instrument.
The baseball game schedule is on the calendar. Ethan's first game is 9/13 at 6pm. All games are at Pioneer Field.
The Discovery Park build is just over a month away. We still have a lot to do on the food committee! AGH! We still need a lot of volunteers!
Tomorrow, Sept 9, we have Ben & Kristen’s wedding! It’ll be fun. I’ll post pics.
Oh…and this just in, we scored tickets for Aerosmith & Motley Crue for September 30! PJ is stoked! He’s taking Joe to visit Christopher Newport University in the morning and then we’re all heading to the concert in the evening. Yippee! I *heart* Aerosmith!
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
Rumor Has It…
Discovery Park is only 54 days away! We had Organization Day on Aug 19. It was a success in that all the committees now have a better idea of where they stand. This Saturday, 8/26, free movie night again at the Sterling Community Center. Please come out and support the park.
It was a really busy weekend. Besides the Org Day stuff for Discovery Park, the family spent Saturday at my in-laws’ house working on a new front porch. Some drainage issues were rectified and we did some serious digging and framing. We poured almost 30 footings (I wasn’t there for all of them, so I can’t be sure)! Talk about tuckered out! Whew!
On Sunday, we took the kids to the National Museum of the American Indian for a couple of hours. We had yummy Native Indian food too.
While we were there, we received a call from PJ’s sister. She informed us that Chaz, the Great Dane, had passed away that morning. He was about 10 years old, so he was long-lived for such a big dog, but it was still sad to hear it.
The Rainbow Bridge Story
Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal who has been especially close to someone dies, that pet goes to the Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food and water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
Animals who were ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them from days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one thing: they miss someone very special to them; the person they left behind.
All of the animals run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; his eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to break away from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.
You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. Happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.
Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together…
I’m unsure of the author of The Rainbow Bridge Story.
Chaz, Megan & Lisa
Finally, on Sunday, we picked up Rumor. She was in need of a forever home. Kennel life wasn’t suiting her at all. I found her through Heidi's breeder, Lesa of Big Star Bulldogs. Rumor is 10 months old and an absolute doll baby. Of course, Echo and Polo have a little adjusting to do and I’m sooooo tired as we’re still figuring out night time schedules and confirming she’s fully housebroken. The kids love her though! Welcome Rumor!
It was a really busy weekend. Besides the Org Day stuff for Discovery Park, the family spent Saturday at my in-laws’ house working on a new front porch. Some drainage issues were rectified and we did some serious digging and framing. We poured almost 30 footings (I wasn’t there for all of them, so I can’t be sure)! Talk about tuckered out! Whew!
On Sunday, we took the kids to the National Museum of the American Indian for a couple of hours. We had yummy Native Indian food too.
While we were there, we received a call from PJ’s sister. She informed us that Chaz, the Great Dane, had passed away that morning. He was about 10 years old, so he was long-lived for such a big dog, but it was still sad to hear it.
The Rainbow Bridge Story
Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal who has been especially close to someone dies, that pet goes to the Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food and water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
Animals who were ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them from days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one thing: they miss someone very special to them; the person they left behind.
All of the animals run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; his eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to break away from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.
You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. Happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.
Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together…
I’m unsure of the author of The Rainbow Bridge Story.
Chaz, Megan & Lisa
Finally, on Sunday, we picked up Rumor. She was in need of a forever home. Kennel life wasn’t suiting her at all. I found her through Heidi's breeder, Lesa of Big Star Bulldogs. Rumor is 10 months old and an absolute doll baby. Of course, Echo and Polo have a little adjusting to do and I’m sooooo tired as we’re still figuring out night time schedules and confirming she’s fully housebroken. The kids love her though! Welcome Rumor!
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
So what if I'm a little behind...
Yeah, I know. I should be updating more frequently. I've just been busy. Even now, at 8pm, my bed is calling my name. "Come watch the food network and relax..." LOL
Anyway, we went bowling for Ethan's birthday.
(don't ask me why the candle picture is like that. I'm still figuring out the camera).
Here are some Buffett pictures...finally (in the link...I wasn't gonna upload them all for you).
I'll post again soon.
Organization Day for Discovery Park is this Saturday. Then it's only 56 days until the build. AHHHHHHH!
Anyway, we went bowling for Ethan's birthday.
(don't ask me why the candle picture is like that. I'm still figuring out the camera).
Here are some Buffett pictures...finally (in the link...I wasn't gonna upload them all for you).
I'll post again soon.
Organization Day for Discovery Park is this Saturday. Then it's only 56 days until the build. AHHHHHHH!
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
Discovery Park Needs YOUR Help!
We’re getting down to the wire now. The Discovery Park build is only 68 days away. We need as many volunteers as possible to help make this a reality!
If you think you might be even a little bit free during the week of Oct 16-22, please go to the website and sign up! You don’t have to know exactly what your availability is right now. We’ll contact you as it gets closer and discuss your schedule and skills. All skill levels are needed. So, you don’t want to swing a hammer? That's okay because we need help with serving lunches and dinners too.
Free food and child care provided for any volunteers! Don’t let your child care needs be an inhibiting factor. We’ve got it covered! And you heard that right, we're providing meals! We’ve already received commitments from Fuddruckers, McDonalds, KFC, Pizza Hut and the Pollo Factory! You say you want a home cooked meal instead? We’ll accept food donations too! Just let me know what and how much you can make.
For more information, you can visit our website, you can email me or you can come to one of these informational events:
August 12
8am-12noon – Breakfast with the Builders. Come for free breakfast and help build some playground components. Kids can paint tiles!
7:30pm – Free Movie: Madagascar at the Sterling Community Center. Food available for purchase. Free popcorn.
August 26
8am-12noon – Breakfast with the Builders Isame as 08/12).
7:30pm – Free Movie: Robots at the Sterling Community Center (same as 08/12).
We look forward to seeing you!
If you think you might be even a little bit free during the week of Oct 16-22, please go to the website and sign up! You don’t have to know exactly what your availability is right now. We’ll contact you as it gets closer and discuss your schedule and skills. All skill levels are needed. So, you don’t want to swing a hammer? That's okay because we need help with serving lunches and dinners too.
Free food and child care provided for any volunteers! Don’t let your child care needs be an inhibiting factor. We’ve got it covered! And you heard that right, we're providing meals! We’ve already received commitments from Fuddruckers, McDonalds, KFC, Pizza Hut and the Pollo Factory! You say you want a home cooked meal instead? We’ll accept food donations too! Just let me know what and how much you can make.
For more information, you can visit our website, you can email me or you can come to one of these informational events:
August 12
8am-12noon – Breakfast with the Builders. Come for free breakfast and help build some playground components. Kids can paint tiles!
7:30pm – Free Movie: Madagascar at the Sterling Community Center. Food available for purchase. Free popcorn.
August 26
8am-12noon – Breakfast with the Builders Isame as 08/12).
7:30pm – Free Movie: Robots at the Sterling Community Center (same as 08/12).
We look forward to seeing you!
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
Popping on for a moment!
I'm so busy and behind on my blogging! I hope things chill out soon.
Spent last weekend in Sykesville with Dave & Trisha! She got her wedding dress and we girls found our bridesmaid dresses. Woohoo! Had a little too much fun at the Cancun Cantina. LOL.
Discovery Park is getting really crazy and the build is getting close. I've got a lot to say, but I need more time to post. Give me a few days.
Tomorrow is Ethan's ELEVENTH birthday! Holy Smokes! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ETHAN!!
Hope you all are well!
Spent last weekend in Sykesville with Dave & Trisha! She got her wedding dress and we girls found our bridesmaid dresses. Woohoo! Had a little too much fun at the Cancun Cantina. LOL.
Discovery Park is getting really crazy and the build is getting close. I've got a lot to say, but I need more time to post. Give me a few days.
Tomorrow is Ethan's ELEVENTH birthday! Holy Smokes! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ETHAN!!
Hope you all are well!
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
Milestones....
Yesterday was Lisa's birthday, but she's in Jamaica, so I can't tell her happy birthday until she gets back.
Today is my dad's 10 year wedding anniversary with Kelly. Congrats!!
In one week and one day, Ethan will be 11 years old. HOLY SMOKES!
Today is my dad's 10 year wedding anniversary with Kelly. Congrats!!
In one week and one day, Ethan will be 11 years old. HOLY SMOKES!
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
Finally, the Pictures!
Hanging with Gram!
Woohoo! Indy Cars!
Celebrating July birthdays.
Getting ready to enter Soak City.
And all 130 others for your viewing enjoyment!
Friday, July 21, 2006
These are some bad kids!
I received an email today with the subject "My child's last day on Earth." Oh great, another sappy, tear-jerker, touched by a child email. Just what I need.
And then I see this picture.... LOL!!
**I don't know whose kids these are or who took the picture**
And then I see this picture.... LOL!!
**I don't know whose kids these are or who took the picture**
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
We’re back!!
I’ve been lacking in my blog updates because we’ve been on vacation. Let me bring you up to speed.
Tuesday, July 4, Ethan had his all-star game. They won 12 runs to 7 or something! It was a pretty good game and first place is fun! PJ and I watched the fireworks from the top of a garage at the Reston Town Center. Pretty nice stuff.
Thursday, July 6, at 930am, we packed up the kids in the car, including my stepbrother, and shoved off for OH and PJ’s family reunion. We hit Soak City and Cedar Point. We had plenty of family time and good food at the reunion. Along the way, we acquired PJ’s nephew, Aaron, who was to go to IN with us.
Wednesday, July 12, we headed for IN to visit Gram. It took only 5 hours, with a small 2-hour lunch detour at Aunt Becky’s house in the Columbus area. It was great to catch up with Bec & Scott for a bit and to see their house. Once we got to Gram’s, we unpacked, sorted laundry and then had dinner. Aunt Alex came by for dinner too. Thursday, we hit the Indy Motor Speedway. And the kids played pool and ping-pong. Friday, we hit the pool and played some more pool and ping-pong. We also had to pack. Saturday morning, we loaded into the truck and started on our trip home. We left at 830am and got home at 745pm! We made great time. Sunday was spent organizing, celebrating some July birthdays and then finishing laundry.
I have hundreds of pictures to sort and upload (over 500). I’ll get to them soon.
This week, I have no idea what’s going on. PJ’s kids left for the beach today. Well, Megan went to camp, but the other two went to the beach. Their great-grandfather isn’t doing very well, so we’re waiting to hear on him. Ethan is back at his dad’s.
Tuesday, July 4, Ethan had his all-star game. They won 12 runs to 7 or something! It was a pretty good game and first place is fun! PJ and I watched the fireworks from the top of a garage at the Reston Town Center. Pretty nice stuff.
Thursday, July 6, at 930am, we packed up the kids in the car, including my stepbrother, and shoved off for OH and PJ’s family reunion. We hit Soak City and Cedar Point. We had plenty of family time and good food at the reunion. Along the way, we acquired PJ’s nephew, Aaron, who was to go to IN with us.
Wednesday, July 12, we headed for IN to visit Gram. It took only 5 hours, with a small 2-hour lunch detour at Aunt Becky’s house in the Columbus area. It was great to catch up with Bec & Scott for a bit and to see their house. Once we got to Gram’s, we unpacked, sorted laundry and then had dinner. Aunt Alex came by for dinner too. Thursday, we hit the Indy Motor Speedway. And the kids played pool and ping-pong. Friday, we hit the pool and played some more pool and ping-pong. We also had to pack. Saturday morning, we loaded into the truck and started on our trip home. We left at 830am and got home at 745pm! We made great time. Sunday was spent organizing, celebrating some July birthdays and then finishing laundry.
I have hundreds of pictures to sort and upload (over 500). I’ll get to them soon.
This week, I have no idea what’s going on. PJ’s kids left for the beach today. Well, Megan went to camp, but the other two went to the beach. Their great-grandfather isn’t doing very well, so we’re waiting to hear on him. Ethan is back at his dad’s.
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
For all you football fans
PJ's cousin (I guess that makes him my cousin-in-law) has an article about football teams. I have no idea any details (how often updated, etc.), but if you like football, you should bookmark his site. :)
Here's the site: http://www.football.com/cgi-bin/posters/printPost.cgi?category=inthetrenches&at=musings1.shtml
I left the whole URL in there because I'm lazy right now (give me a break, this is the second entry of the evening, you know).
Here's the site: http://www.football.com/cgi-bin/posters/printPost.cgi?category=inthetrenches&at=musings1.shtml
I left the whole URL in there because I'm lazy right now (give me a break, this is the second entry of the evening, you know).
All caught up???
Okay, so, I’m catching up…here are some updates.
Ethan made the all-star team for his division in baseball. That’s cool and he’s happy. We found out on Friday, I think. The game is at 10am on July 4. Ten am??? Whose idea was that? Well, I hope it’s nice weather, given that it’s been raining for like 5 days straight and I feel like maybe we should have invested in an ark instead of just a new roof. LOL
Friday night, I picked up the kids and we went to the pool. We had pizza for dinner and then did our chores. Saturday morning, we had a Yard Sale. I had been hoping it wouldn’t rain…and it didn’t, but I think it must have been 90 degrees with 90 percent humidity! OHMIGOSH it was hot and sticky! Tina, Aaron and Elana came to sell with us too. It was nice to hang out and catch up, though a breeze would have made it even nicer. Sam had also decided on a lemonade stand and Megan eventually went off with a friend. Ultimately, Ethan did very well, making about $18. I have to say it wasn’t exactly profitable for me, but everything is gone! That was the most important part!
PJ worked on his truck for a little bit on Saturday (something for the stereo). In the process, he damaged the battery a little. It appeared to be fine, however, and we went about our business of making fondue for dinner. The kids helped and had a lot of fun and now we will seriously consider getting our own fondue pot. It was a lot of work though. We’ll have to think of ways to streamline the process. For instance, melting the chocolate with the marshmallows (for dessert, of course) took FOREVER on the makeshift double-boiler. Hmmm…there must be an easier way.
Sunday morning, PJ took Sam to breakfast. They were at Bob Evans and I got a call around 9:45. PJ’s battery was dead. Yeah, that little damage he had done on Saturday was a much bigger deal than we realized. Well, I hopped in my car and headed over to BE to get him. And on the way I told him to call Geico to find out about towing (which I know is included in our policy). And he did and they came to jump him and he made it home. But this significantly changed our plans for Sunday. LOL.
Ultimately, we hit up Merchant’s Tire who was able to switch out the battery for $100 and fifteen minutes of PJ’s time. We also got all our chores done, except for Joe who worked. PJ and Joe discussed college stuff for a bit and it rained ALL day Sunday. Here are some pictures of PJ and the kids playing in the rain!
Finally, here are the pictures for our bathrooms. I tried for before, during and after, but I’m sure they are lacking to an extent. Master, Downstairs Hall, Upstairs Hall
Discovery Park meeting last night...we’ll be at Safeway in Sterling Park Shopping Plaza on Saturday, July 1, if you want to come by and sign up!
Today, we had our vents cleaned by Virginia’s E-Z Finest. Or something. Name was a bit sketchy, but it appears they did a good job. The dryer vent apparently had a blockage and they solved that problem too.
Oh yeah, I nearly forgot. Report cards came out! Ethan, as you all know already, was on Honor Roll (that means only A’s & B’s in Loudoun County). Megan had only one C, but we are pretty sure she can do better if she focuses a little more. The rest were A’s and B’s. Joe had A’s, B’s, and C’s - a marked improvement over all his report cards since I think 5th grade. Samantha (notice full name), on the other hand, was definitely slacking. I believe she had 19 missed days. NINETEEN MISSED DAYS?!! I don’t think I’ve missed that much school and work COMBINED (chicken pox doesn’t count though). She didn’t make up work, she didn’t turn in work, she must not have studied too because a few test grades weren’t as good as she can do. And she thinks she deserves a hamster?? I don’t think so! All in all, Sam’s grades weren’t terrible; though it appears she had a very low C in at least one class. A’s and B’s in the others, the problem has more to do with effort here. Hmm….we’ll be thinking more about this in the coming months. Her birthday is July 3 too…never a good thing to get a bad report card right before your birthday…
Is it Friday yet? I’ve got another busy weekend, but Friday means we’re only a few days away from vacation!! Woohoo!
Ethan made the all-star team for his division in baseball. That’s cool and he’s happy. We found out on Friday, I think. The game is at 10am on July 4. Ten am??? Whose idea was that? Well, I hope it’s nice weather, given that it’s been raining for like 5 days straight and I feel like maybe we should have invested in an ark instead of just a new roof. LOL
Friday night, I picked up the kids and we went to the pool. We had pizza for dinner and then did our chores. Saturday morning, we had a Yard Sale. I had been hoping it wouldn’t rain…and it didn’t, but I think it must have been 90 degrees with 90 percent humidity! OHMIGOSH it was hot and sticky! Tina, Aaron and Elana came to sell with us too. It was nice to hang out and catch up, though a breeze would have made it even nicer. Sam had also decided on a lemonade stand and Megan eventually went off with a friend. Ultimately, Ethan did very well, making about $18. I have to say it wasn’t exactly profitable for me, but everything is gone! That was the most important part!
PJ worked on his truck for a little bit on Saturday (something for the stereo). In the process, he damaged the battery a little. It appeared to be fine, however, and we went about our business of making fondue for dinner. The kids helped and had a lot of fun and now we will seriously consider getting our own fondue pot. It was a lot of work though. We’ll have to think of ways to streamline the process. For instance, melting the chocolate with the marshmallows (for dessert, of course) took FOREVER on the makeshift double-boiler. Hmmm…there must be an easier way.
Sunday morning, PJ took Sam to breakfast. They were at Bob Evans and I got a call around 9:45. PJ’s battery was dead. Yeah, that little damage he had done on Saturday was a much bigger deal than we realized. Well, I hopped in my car and headed over to BE to get him. And on the way I told him to call Geico to find out about towing (which I know is included in our policy). And he did and they came to jump him and he made it home. But this significantly changed our plans for Sunday. LOL.
Ultimately, we hit up Merchant’s Tire who was able to switch out the battery for $100 and fifteen minutes of PJ’s time. We also got all our chores done, except for Joe who worked. PJ and Joe discussed college stuff for a bit and it rained ALL day Sunday. Here are some pictures of PJ and the kids playing in the rain!
Finally, here are the pictures for our bathrooms. I tried for before, during and after, but I’m sure they are lacking to an extent. Master, Downstairs Hall, Upstairs Hall
Discovery Park meeting last night...we’ll be at Safeway in Sterling Park Shopping Plaza on Saturday, July 1, if you want to come by and sign up!
Today, we had our vents cleaned by Virginia’s E-Z Finest. Or something. Name was a bit sketchy, but it appears they did a good job. The dryer vent apparently had a blockage and they solved that problem too.
Oh yeah, I nearly forgot. Report cards came out! Ethan, as you all know already, was on Honor Roll (that means only A’s & B’s in Loudoun County). Megan had only one C, but we are pretty sure she can do better if she focuses a little more. The rest were A’s and B’s. Joe had A’s, B’s, and C’s - a marked improvement over all his report cards since I think 5th grade. Samantha (notice full name), on the other hand, was definitely slacking. I believe she had 19 missed days. NINETEEN MISSED DAYS?!! I don’t think I’ve missed that much school and work COMBINED (chicken pox doesn’t count though). She didn’t make up work, she didn’t turn in work, she must not have studied too because a few test grades weren’t as good as she can do. And she thinks she deserves a hamster?? I don’t think so! All in all, Sam’s grades weren’t terrible; though it appears she had a very low C in at least one class. A’s and B’s in the others, the problem has more to do with effort here. Hmm….we’ll be thinking more about this in the coming months. Her birthday is July 3 too…never a good thing to get a bad report card right before your birthday…
Is it Friday yet? I’ve got another busy weekend, but Friday means we’re only a few days away from vacation!! Woohoo!
Sunday, June 25, 2006
Buzz Words
I know I have some recap to do and I'll get to it, but I just had to share this.
It's Sunday afternoon. I'm playing with the dogs in the living room while PJ drops Joe off at work. I'm waiting for him to return so we can finish putting the bathroom fixtures back up, etc. and the laundry is running so there's nothing to fold. Ethan, Sam and Megan are in Ethan's room working on the Highlights Hidden Pictures.
There was a brief lull in the dog play and it was quiet and I heard Ethan say, "you've got to think outside the box," as he was explaining how to find some of the more difficult items in the Hidden Pictures. Okay, he's not even 11 years old and doesn't work. What is this world coming to??!!
Now, I'm just waiting for them to grasp the concept of proactive!
It's Sunday afternoon. I'm playing with the dogs in the living room while PJ drops Joe off at work. I'm waiting for him to return so we can finish putting the bathroom fixtures back up, etc. and the laundry is running so there's nothing to fold. Ethan, Sam and Megan are in Ethan's room working on the Highlights Hidden Pictures.
There was a brief lull in the dog play and it was quiet and I heard Ethan say, "you've got to think outside the box," as he was explaining how to find some of the more difficult items in the Hidden Pictures. Okay, he's not even 11 years old and doesn't work. What is this world coming to??!!
Now, I'm just waiting for them to grasp the concept of proactive!
Monday, June 19, 2006
Crazy Weekend #653
It was another busy weekend, but what else is new? Here’s the rundown.
Friday night…just prepping the bathrooms for the painter, sorted laundry (put last week’s away. Yes, I’m slow), and then just piddled around the house, doing little things here and there.
Saturday morning, I got up and drove with a DP committee members to Harrisburg, PA to help Possibility Place. We left at about 8am and arrived about 1030am. We left around 230pm (well, some in the group stayed longer, but my car had to leave). It was very educational to see all they had done and to learn from their experiences. They had a lot to share. I think one of their Team Captains may even come and work at our build in October! Here are some pictures, courtesy of our in-house photographer (and volunteer), Peter Klosky.
Saturday, while I was gone, PJ did a few things around the house and the painter came. PJ then went to help a buddy of his with some electrical work and the painter was able to get most of the work done. He’s coming back next Saturday to finish. I’ll post pictures when it’s done.
Sunday, we had PJ’s kids for Father’s Day and we had a nice breakfast at Chez Missy’s and then we did a few things around the house. Then we ran Joe up to work, picked up a bit more paint, picked up some feeder mice and then grabbed lunch from Five Guys. Yeah, I’m not sure what all the hype is around them. They were just so-so in my opinion. Anyway, we ran home to feed the snake and switch cars. Brent wanted to borrow the truck. We had our hamburgers at home and then ran to Kohl’s. The girls went home at 6pm.
PJ and I then attended a graduation party for Nazli, Mo’s daughter. It was lots of fun and as they are Indian, we were treated to some traditional Indian music with some Western music thrown in. I was bummed to leave because we didn’t get to see Mo’s son act as DJ, but it was already 11pm and we both knew that 530am was going to come awfully early. Congrats Nazli!! And enjoy JMU!
Samantha’s birthday is coming up and for some reason has the notion that she needs a hamster. And then Megan thought she needed one too. I’m not sure what put that thought into their minds, but I had to put my foot down. No more animals at this time.
Only about two weeks until we go on vacation! Woohoo!
Yard Sale this coming Saturday, June 24.
Friday night…just prepping the bathrooms for the painter, sorted laundry (put last week’s away. Yes, I’m slow), and then just piddled around the house, doing little things here and there.
Saturday morning, I got up and drove with a DP committee members to Harrisburg, PA to help Possibility Place. We left at about 8am and arrived about 1030am. We left around 230pm (well, some in the group stayed longer, but my car had to leave). It was very educational to see all they had done and to learn from their experiences. They had a lot to share. I think one of their Team Captains may even come and work at our build in October! Here are some pictures, courtesy of our in-house photographer (and volunteer), Peter Klosky.
Saturday, while I was gone, PJ did a few things around the house and the painter came. PJ then went to help a buddy of his with some electrical work and the painter was able to get most of the work done. He’s coming back next Saturday to finish. I’ll post pictures when it’s done.
Sunday, we had PJ’s kids for Father’s Day and we had a nice breakfast at Chez Missy’s and then we did a few things around the house. Then we ran Joe up to work, picked up a bit more paint, picked up some feeder mice and then grabbed lunch from Five Guys. Yeah, I’m not sure what all the hype is around them. They were just so-so in my opinion. Anyway, we ran home to feed the snake and switch cars. Brent wanted to borrow the truck. We had our hamburgers at home and then ran to Kohl’s. The girls went home at 6pm.
PJ and I then attended a graduation party for Nazli, Mo’s daughter. It was lots of fun and as they are Indian, we were treated to some traditional Indian music with some Western music thrown in. I was bummed to leave because we didn’t get to see Mo’s son act as DJ, but it was already 11pm and we both knew that 530am was going to come awfully early. Congrats Nazli!! And enjoy JMU!
Samantha’s birthday is coming up and for some reason has the notion that she needs a hamster. And then Megan thought she needed one too. I’m not sure what put that thought into their minds, but I had to put my foot down. No more animals at this time.
Only about two weeks until we go on vacation! Woohoo!
Yard Sale this coming Saturday, June 24.
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Discovery Park Updates (and then some)!
First and foremost, the build dates have been extended. We need help from Oct 16-22. If you can help in any way (food, child care, skilled labor, non-skilled labor), please let me know!
Upcoming events:
- Loudoun County Sheriffs Dept vs. the Loudoun County Fire & Rescue Football Game, July 16 at Park View High School. Gates open at noon, kick-off at 2pm. There will be various events before the game starts. Food, entertainment, fun! Family friendly; bring the kids!
- Latina Festival, July 29 at the Sterling Community Center, 12-4. Again, food, entertainment and fun for the whole family!
- Movie Night (movies TBD, but family friendly). Two dates: August 12 & 26, starting at 7pm. Enjoy some food and entertainment and then plan to watch the movie. Movie will be free, nominal cost for food.
Please consider attending any or all of these events as we try to raise awareness for Discovery Park and to sign up volunteers! We’d love to have your support!
In other news, PJ was still sick yesterday. He planned to take a nap after work, but had to delay it a little bit as the roofing guys were out to finish the soffit. He fell asleep at about 530 and I woke him at 830. He had to take a final exam, you know. So, the soffit is done and PJ is feeling better today. Yay! Gutters should be done today and hopefully the painter will be able to get by soon (though I don’t know when now).
Last day of school today! Ethan will be a middle-schooler in the fall. Whoa! Sam will be entering 9th grade, Joe will be a senior and Meg will be in 5th grade. Holy smokes they’re growing up so fast!
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
Two Years
Yesterday was our two year wedding anniversary. Yipee! PJ took a half day at work and met me for lunch. We ate at a rice and kabob place. Then we hit Amphora’s Bakery for a couple of cookies. YUMMY!
PJ took my car to the shop for the body work. It should be done on Friday. I hope it is because I am not trying to keep my rental car for more than this week. I have a Chevy Malibu. B-O-R-I-N-G! It is nicely appointed though. And Enterprise has great prices.
For dinner, PJ, Ethan and I went to Carrabba’s. It was also quite yummy. PJ wasn’t feeling so hot though. I’m not sure if it’s allergies, a cold or a combination, but the poor guy was fast asleep by 8:30! I folded some laundry and watched Animal Precinct for a little bit and that about sums up my evening.
Sam kindly drew and colored a picture for us for our anniversary. Thanks Sam!
Tonight is a DP meeting and then Wednesday night I need to take the kids Father’s Day shopping. I know they want to go to the pool, but I’m thinking we won’t have time.
We survived our extremely busy weekend. I picked and purchased our paint colors from Duron. If you want to see the colors, please visit their site and enter the paint numbers.
Upstairs Hall Bath – Walls, Goldfinch, 6905; Trim/Ceiling, Daffodil, 6901
Downstairs Hall Bath – Walls, Gleeful, 6709; Trim/Ceiling, Narcissus, 6707
Master Bath – Walls, Sassy Green, 6416; Trim, Restoration Ivory, 6413
PJ took my car to the shop for the body work. It should be done on Friday. I hope it is because I am not trying to keep my rental car for more than this week. I have a Chevy Malibu. B-O-R-I-N-G! It is nicely appointed though. And Enterprise has great prices.
For dinner, PJ, Ethan and I went to Carrabba’s. It was also quite yummy. PJ wasn’t feeling so hot though. I’m not sure if it’s allergies, a cold or a combination, but the poor guy was fast asleep by 8:30! I folded some laundry and watched Animal Precinct for a little bit and that about sums up my evening.
Sam kindly drew and colored a picture for us for our anniversary. Thanks Sam!
Tonight is a DP meeting and then Wednesday night I need to take the kids Father’s Day shopping. I know they want to go to the pool, but I’m thinking we won’t have time.
We survived our extremely busy weekend. I picked and purchased our paint colors from Duron. If you want to see the colors, please visit their site and enter the paint numbers.
Upstairs Hall Bath – Walls, Goldfinch, 6905; Trim/Ceiling, Daffodil, 6901
Downstairs Hall Bath – Walls, Gleeful, 6709; Trim/Ceiling, Narcissus, 6707
Master Bath – Walls, Sassy Green, 6416; Trim, Restoration Ivory, 6413
I was recently made aware of a possible snag in the timing of our painting work now. I hope it's not delayed too much, but our painter is out of town and I can't confirm yet.
Tomorrow is also the last day of school. EVERYONE is excited! Yeah for summer vacation!!Thursday, June 08, 2006
Is this day over yet?!
Well, it’s been a busy week or so…where do I begin?? Maybe I should figure out where I left off!!
When I last left you, we had discussed Ethan’s most recent game. That was on May 31. We’ve had two more games since then…June 3 and June 5. June 3 was the last regular season game. It was against the Orioles and we lost. June 5 was the first play-off game. The boys made a valiant effort, but a few too many mistakes. They lost by one or two points. The bonus…the season is over so we could go to the pool on Wednesday!
On Tuesday, June 6, I helped at a Talent Show at Ethan’s school for a while. Then on June 7, I took Ethan, Sam and Megan to the pool. It was a tad bit chilly, but the kids had fun.
Today, I attended Ethan’s DARE graduation. He won the poster contest for his class! More pics: D.A.R.E Grad Pics
Then tonight, his dad and I attended his graduation from 5th grade! Holy smokes! I can’t believe he’s going to be in 6th grade next year. For all the pics: Fifth Grade Graduation
In the upcoming days, we have a lot going on: wedding on Saturday, birthday stuff for Tammy and Chris on Sunday (and early Father’s Day for Pat). Shopping, picking paint colors, cleaning, chores and getting to the pool (I hope!).
Monday, June 12, PJ and I will celebrate our 2 year anniversary. We’re going out for lunch and dinner (I’m so lucky!). I’m also dropping my car off at Craftsman Auto Body for some work. Tuesday, I have a DP meeting. I think our painter friend, Chris, is coming by to start painting the bathrooms also. At some point, the roofer is coming by to do the soffet and then the gutter guy will be out. OHMIGOSH!! So much at once! Oh…the last day of school is the 14th too (which is also Tammy’s 30th birthday!).
WHEW!
When I last left you, we had discussed Ethan’s most recent game. That was on May 31. We’ve had two more games since then…June 3 and June 5. June 3 was the last regular season game. It was against the Orioles and we lost. June 5 was the first play-off game. The boys made a valiant effort, but a few too many mistakes. They lost by one or two points. The bonus…the season is over so we could go to the pool on Wednesday!
On Tuesday, June 6, I helped at a Talent Show at Ethan’s school for a while. Then on June 7, I took Ethan, Sam and Megan to the pool. It was a tad bit chilly, but the kids had fun.
Today, I attended Ethan’s DARE graduation. He won the poster contest for his class! More pics: D.A.R.E Grad PicsThen tonight, his dad and I attended his graduation from 5th grade! Holy smokes! I can’t believe he’s going to be in 6th grade next year. For all the pics: Fifth Grade Graduation
In the upcoming days, we have a lot going on: wedding on Saturday, birthday stuff for Tammy and Chris on Sunday (and early Father’s Day for Pat). Shopping, picking paint colors, cleaning, chores and getting to the pool (I hope!).
Monday, June 12, PJ and I will celebrate our 2 year anniversary. We’re going out for lunch and dinner (I’m so lucky!). I’m also dropping my car off at Craftsman Auto Body for some work. Tuesday, I have a DP meeting. I think our painter friend, Chris, is coming by to start painting the bathrooms also. At some point, the roofer is coming by to do the soffet and then the gutter guy will be out. OHMIGOSH!! So much at once! Oh…the last day of school is the 14th too (which is also Tammy’s 30th birthday!).
WHEW!
Wednesday, May 31, 2006
A Great Night for Baseball
Ethan's team played the Yankees tonight. The coaches (Steve and Doug) were Ethan's coaches for the Phillies last year. The Padres spanked them with a score 9-8, helped not in the least by Ethan's GRAND SLAM!!!! Yeah, you read that right, Ethan had a Grand Slam! It was AWESOME! GO ETHAN!!!! Ethan and his teammate, Chris, also completed an awesome play to get someone out at first, ending the game.
PJ and his kids hit the pool tonight, taking advantage of our new membership. Ethan can't wait to go....few more days and then we'll be done with baseball.
PJ and his kids hit the pool tonight, taking advantage of our new membership. Ethan can't wait to go....few more days and then we'll be done with baseball.
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
Wow! What a weekend!
On Friday evening, I picked up PJ’s girls and we headed home to do our chores and finish cleaning up the house. I was aiming for a 9pm bedtime, but 10pm had to suffice. Joe got home from work sometime after I went to sleep.
Saturday morning, 515am, the alarm went off. I had to get up and showered and out of the way so PJ could do the same. I was out the door before 7am (with two girls in tow) to get the donuts and coffee. Ouch! That’s early on a Saturday!
The roofing work pretty much proceeded according to plan. There was a little bit more rot than we anticipated, therefore, some of the work was a little more intensive, however, the roofers did a great job and we were all done with the shingling by about 300pm (I think). That was the part that surprised me most!
Sam and I had picked up lunch for all the helpers and cheerleaders. We had a 6’ sub from Subway. It was delicious and it fed everyone (about 20 people)!
After all the roofing was done and the major clean-up completed, we settled down to grill some burgers and dogs. It was an exhausting day! We still need to have new soffit installed and the gutters done and then we’re done with this project completely.
Sunday, we slept in until nearly 11am! That’s late even for PJ. Clearly, we were pooped. After we were up and dressed, PJ’s roofer friend, Tom, came by to check on the flashing around the chimney and then we headed to my dad’s for his birthday BBQ. Rob, Dawn, Heidi, Kurt, Julie (Dawn’s sister), PJ, me, all the kids (except Joe who was at work), Ben, Will, Kelly and Gram were there to celebrate with my dad. We had a good time and more good food. (Those cookies were to die for!).
Around 9pm we had to head home and get the kids (and us!) to bed. Unfortunately, I saw 11-something on the clock before I got to sleep.
Thank goodness for 3-day weekends. We got moving Monday morning and finished cleaning up the yard, tools and roofing stuff. The kids worked on various projects (chores, homework, whatever) and then Dad, Gram and Heidi stopped by to have lunch. Dad also cleaned my carpet. It looks great! We gave Gram the grand tour and then before long, they left.
In the afternoon, we signed up for a pool membership, ran a few errands and then dropped Joe off at work. We finished up a few things at home before taking the kids home and then running a couple more errands. All-in-all, it was a productive weekend, but I’m so glad it’s over.
This week, Discovery Park meeting tonight, game on Wednesday (and the kids want to go to the pool), I have dinner plans with Jen on Thursday and I’m heading to my friend, Julie’s on Friday. And don’t even get me started with all the plans for Saturday. I need another 3-day weekend soon!
Saturday morning, 515am, the alarm went off. I had to get up and showered and out of the way so PJ could do the same. I was out the door before 7am (with two girls in tow) to get the donuts and coffee. Ouch! That’s early on a Saturday!
The roofing work pretty much proceeded according to plan. There was a little bit more rot than we anticipated, therefore, some of the work was a little more intensive, however, the roofers did a great job and we were all done with the shingling by about 300pm (I think). That was the part that surprised me most!Sam and I had picked up lunch for all the helpers and cheerleaders. We had a 6’ sub from Subway. It was delicious and it fed everyone (about 20 people)!
After all the roofing was done and the major clean-up completed, we settled down to grill some burgers and dogs. It was an exhausting day! We still need to have new soffit installed and the gutters done and then we’re done with this project completely.
Sunday, we slept in until nearly 11am! That’s late even for PJ. Clearly, we were pooped. After we were up and dressed, PJ’s roofer friend, Tom, came by to check on the flashing around the chimney and then we headed to my dad’s for his birthday BBQ. Rob, Dawn, Heidi, Kurt, Julie (Dawn’s sister), PJ, me, all the kids (except Joe who was at work), Ben, Will, Kelly and Gram were there to celebrate with my dad. We had a good time and more good food. (Those cookies were to die for!).
Around 9pm we had to head home and get the kids (and us!) to bed. Unfortunately, I saw 11-something on the clock before I got to sleep.
Thank goodness for 3-day weekends. We got moving Monday morning and finished cleaning up the yard, tools and roofing stuff. The kids worked on various projects (chores, homework, whatever) and then Dad, Gram and Heidi stopped by to have lunch. Dad also cleaned my carpet. It looks great! We gave Gram the grand tour and then before long, they left.
In the afternoon, we signed up for a pool membership, ran a few errands and then dropped Joe off at work. We finished up a few things at home before taking the kids home and then running a couple more errands. All-in-all, it was a productive weekend, but I’m so glad it’s over.
This week, Discovery Park meeting tonight, game on Wednesday (and the kids want to go to the pool), I have dinner plans with Jen on Thursday and I’m heading to my friend, Julie’s on Friday. And don’t even get me started with all the plans for Saturday. I need another 3-day weekend soon!
Thursday, May 25, 2006
Vacation Help Needed!
I completely forgot this. We've already made vacation plans for this summer, but we're starting to think about next spring break and summer already (I know it's really far away, but there are potentially a lot of people to coordinate!).
The criteria: driving distance, some attractions (touristy or other), possibly the option to rent a house (as opposed to staying in a hotel), dog-friendly, preferably somewhere we haven't been before (we've been to: Las Vegas, Philly, OBX, VaBeach, NY, DisneyWorld, and that's all I can remember right now).
None of those are set in stone and we're definitely throwing around the idea of OBX or similar, but I was hoping someone out there would have some vacation ideas. I might even consider camping (Did I just say that outloud??!!).
So, if you have any suggestions, we'd mucho appreciate it. :)
The criteria: driving distance, some attractions (touristy or other), possibly the option to rent a house (as opposed to staying in a hotel), dog-friendly, preferably somewhere we haven't been before (we've been to: Las Vegas, Philly, OBX, VaBeach, NY, DisneyWorld, and that's all I can remember right now).
None of those are set in stone and we're definitely throwing around the idea of OBX or similar, but I was hoping someone out there would have some vacation ideas. I might even consider camping (Did I just say that outloud??!!).
So, if you have any suggestions, we'd mucho appreciate it. :)
A little behind the eight ball
I can't believe how busy we've been lately!
On May 20th, PJ and I went to Chili Cook-Off. It was a good time. Hoobastank, Tonic and Bloodhound Gang all rocked. Better than Ezra was fantastic. I *heart* them.
On May 22, Ethan had a game against the White Sox. We totally kicked their butt!
Tonight was the rescheduled game 10 against the Cardinals. We lost again. Their umpires are "questionable." Bummer. Anyway, the kids seemed to have a pretty good time. One more game until playoffs and I am soooo relieved. One less thing to do at nights!
On Saturday, we're putting a new roof on the house. PJ is taking tomorrow off to do all the preparation and to receive the supplies. I believe we have somewhere around 20-25 people coming to help. I better hurry up and order our subs for lunch!
I'll have a lot more to post after this weekend. Thank goodness for three-day weekends!
On May 20th, PJ and I went to Chili Cook-Off. It was a good time. Hoobastank, Tonic and Bloodhound Gang all rocked. Better than Ezra was fantastic. I *heart* them.
On May 22, Ethan had a game against the White Sox. We totally kicked their butt!
Tonight was the rescheduled game 10 against the Cardinals. We lost again. Their umpires are "questionable." Bummer. Anyway, the kids seemed to have a pretty good time. One more game until playoffs and I am soooo relieved. One less thing to do at nights!
On Saturday, we're putting a new roof on the house. PJ is taking tomorrow off to do all the preparation and to receive the supplies. I believe we have somewhere around 20-25 people coming to help. I better hurry up and order our subs for lunch!
I'll have a lot more to post after this weekend. Thank goodness for three-day weekends!
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
Quick Recap
There was a game on Saturday. I don’t know the score. My mom, PJ and all the kids attended the game, so I did more talking than watching for most of it. I think they might have tied, but I may never know for sure.
Sunday was, of course, Mother’s Day. PJ’s kids were going back to their mom’s by 9am, so we were up WAY TOO EARLY (in my opinion) to open gifts. I received a bunch of socks and a salad spinner. I am quite anxious to use the salad spinner, but I haven’t had a chance yet.
After church, we headed out to Gainsville to see my mom. I was quite stuffed after our meal. Back at home, PJ did homework and stuff and I totally vegged in front of the TV. Hey, it’s my day to do that, so I did. Ethan sorta cleaned his room and played some video games or something.
Last night, there was a game. It was BITTERLY cold as I sat there and tried to watch. The longer the season goes, the less I care. Plus, it had rained a lot, so I had been hoping the game was cancelled so I could get something else done. Alas, that was not my luck and I shivered while the Padres got their butts beaten again by the Nationals. Oh well.
We did have a delicious dinner of grilled cheese and tomato soup though. Mmmm! I love that once in a while. It almost made up for the crappy game and weather.
Discovery Park meeting tonight. I'm looking forward to a "boring" evening sometime soon.
Sunday was, of course, Mother’s Day. PJ’s kids were going back to their mom’s by 9am, so we were up WAY TOO EARLY (in my opinion) to open gifts. I received a bunch of socks and a salad spinner. I am quite anxious to use the salad spinner, but I haven’t had a chance yet.
After church, we headed out to Gainsville to see my mom. I was quite stuffed after our meal. Back at home, PJ did homework and stuff and I totally vegged in front of the TV. Hey, it’s my day to do that, so I did. Ethan sorta cleaned his room and played some video games or something.
Last night, there was a game. It was BITTERLY cold as I sat there and tried to watch. The longer the season goes, the less I care. Plus, it had rained a lot, so I had been hoping the game was cancelled so I could get something else done. Alas, that was not my luck and I shivered while the Padres got their butts beaten again by the Nationals. Oh well.
We did have a delicious dinner of grilled cheese and tomato soup though. Mmmm! I love that once in a while. It almost made up for the crappy game and weather.
Discovery Park meeting tonight. I'm looking forward to a "boring" evening sometime soon.
Monday, May 15, 2006
UPDATE TO ETHAN'S SCHEDULE
***beep, beep, beep****
***you are now returned to your regularly scheduled blogging.***
Ethan's game on Saturday, 5/20 at noon
has been rescheduled to Thursday, 5/25 at 6pm, Jack Jennings Field.
***you are now returned to your regularly scheduled blogging.***
Friday, May 12, 2006
Title Smitle
Coming up with a title is the worst part of this blogging thing. grr
Anyway, Ethan had a game on Wednesday. It was against the Giants, who we've versed before. The Padres were down by 3 runs at the bottom of the 3rd inning. Somehow, we managed to get 4 runs and we winning! The inning was over and the players got ready to shake ("good game, good game"), but then the coaches thought it was a good idea to play another inning. Now, it's 10 minutes to 8pm. All these kids are between 8-11 years old. Most are in bed around 830pm. WTH is the coach thinking to start another innning??!! I mean, seriously, we haven't had dinner yet (well, I did, but Ethan hadn't) and there were other kids to deal with (Joe was with me, Megan was at a friend's and PJ & Sam were at a volleyball meeting). Anyway, like, I needed to get home!
So, I left Ethan in the care of his dad (an assistant coach) and headed home. Turns out the Padres and Giants TIED! Why couldn't we stop while we were ahead??!! And Ethan didn't get to bed until 930! GRRR! Ethan did have a couple of good hits and made it to home base at least once. Go Ethan!
In other news, the orthopedic doc thinks the muscles in Sam's knee are just weak and with some PT she might be okay. She has some very painful exercises to do over the next 10 days and then she goes back for a follow-up. She is trying to get out of the exercises...all of us are trying to convince her of the value of them and her young knees! We'll see if it works. She can't play volleyball with a bum knee though, so there is some motivation there!
Ethan has a game tomorrow morning at 0900 hours. Again, I am not a fan of these early games! I'll have him there at 0830...ugh! My mom is coming though, so she'll keep me company. All the kids have to be up early though...man, I love the no-kid weekends when we can sleep in! haha
Mother's Day on Sunday...don't forget to give your mom (stepmom, grandma, whoever!) a little love!
Anyway, Ethan had a game on Wednesday. It was against the Giants, who we've versed before. The Padres were down by 3 runs at the bottom of the 3rd inning. Somehow, we managed to get 4 runs and we winning! The inning was over and the players got ready to shake ("good game, good game"), but then the coaches thought it was a good idea to play another inning. Now, it's 10 minutes to 8pm. All these kids are between 8-11 years old. Most are in bed around 830pm. WTH is the coach thinking to start another innning??!! I mean, seriously, we haven't had dinner yet (well, I did, but Ethan hadn't) and there were other kids to deal with (Joe was with me, Megan was at a friend's and PJ & Sam were at a volleyball meeting). Anyway, like, I needed to get home!
So, I left Ethan in the care of his dad (an assistant coach) and headed home. Turns out the Padres and Giants TIED! Why couldn't we stop while we were ahead??!! And Ethan didn't get to bed until 930! GRRR! Ethan did have a couple of good hits and made it to home base at least once. Go Ethan!
In other news, the orthopedic doc thinks the muscles in Sam's knee are just weak and with some PT she might be okay. She has some very painful exercises to do over the next 10 days and then she goes back for a follow-up. She is trying to get out of the exercises...all of us are trying to convince her of the value of them and her young knees! We'll see if it works. She can't play volleyball with a bum knee though, so there is some motivation there!
Ethan has a game tomorrow morning at 0900 hours. Again, I am not a fan of these early games! I'll have him there at 0830...ugh! My mom is coming though, so she'll keep me company. All the kids have to be up early though...man, I love the no-kid weekends when we can sleep in! haha
Mother's Day on Sunday...don't forget to give your mom (stepmom, grandma, whoever!) a little love!
Tuesday, May 09, 2006
Random information
I made the most delicious dinner last night. Now, if you ask Megan, she’d probably say it wasn’t so delicious, but she poured some Catalina dressing on and survived. At any rate, I made Parmesan-Herb Baked Flounder, Jasmine rice with herbs and some mixed veggies. I don’t often cook fish at home (the kids protest and it’s not as forgiving as chicken), but I felt the urge and flounder was on sale. I’d say the parmesan-herb topping was a little on the salty side, but still good. I had the leftovers for lunch today. OHMIGOSH! Still so delish! And the veggies and rice were still just as tasty. YUM!
Chili Cook-Off is less than two weeks away! Woohoo! More info at DC101 if you need it.
Joe has a great new camera that takes some great pictures, but I haven’t received them in electronic version yet, so I can’t share them with you. Since he has access to the kids’ blog, he might just upload them himself!
Poor Samantha has a knee injury. She’s going to the orthopedic on Wednesday to find out what’s wrong. I hope it’s nothing serious and easily fixable because she is too young for a lifetime of knee problems.
I’ve found an online calendar and I believe I’ve updated it with all our activities for the next few months. Birthdays too (in case you wanted to get me something). The calendar is in my links section to the right. FINALLY!!!
Chili Cook-Off is less than two weeks away! Woohoo! More info at DC101 if you need it.
Joe has a great new camera that takes some great pictures, but I haven’t received them in electronic version yet, so I can’t share them with you. Since he has access to the kids’ blog, he might just upload them himself!
Poor Samantha has a knee injury. She’s going to the orthopedic on Wednesday to find out what’s wrong. I hope it’s nothing serious and easily fixable because she is too young for a lifetime of knee problems.
I’ve found an online calendar and I believe I’ve updated it with all our activities for the next few months. Birthdays too (in case you wanted to get me something). The calendar is in my links section to the right. FINALLY!!!
Monday, May 08, 2006
Another busy weekend
The phone rang at 0700 hours on Saturday morning.
“Mom?”
“Yeah.”
“I think I have strep throat and pink eye.”
“I’m sure it’s allergies; go back to bed for an hour and tell your dad.”
Honey, look at the clock before you call your dear mother on her weekend off. Please!
I had to bail on Ethan’s 9am game on Saturday. I just couldn’t bear the thought of sitting on the cold bleacher, probably unshowered, while my nice, warm bed was still available. I have to be there at 9am next weekend anyway. Unfortunately, they lost their game. Boo! Ethan said he got a hit, but I never heard any details.
Joe went to prom on Saturday. Whoa! That makes even me feel old!
PJ and I tried Bonefish Grill on Saturday night. Tres Magnifique! They were busy, so we sat at the bar. I tried an expresso martini. I’m not big on martinis, but it was delish! PJ didn’t like it; I have no idea why. I didn’t care at that point anyway.
My rhododendrons are blooming! *must take a picture*
We attended my friend’s 30th birthday party on Sunday afternoon. It was fun! And my cheeseburger hit the spot!
Ethan wasn’t feeling too hot when he came home from his dad’s. I sent him off to school this morning with the secret hope that I’d have to leave early to get him, but alas, he’s made it almost the whole day. I hope he gets his homework done and can rest up tonight.
Game on Wednesday at 6pm. I hope it’s warm. Daggone cold weather came back yesterday! And then Discovery Park reception on Thursday. I think it’ll prove to be yet another busy week.
“Mom?”
“Yeah.”
“I think I have strep throat and pink eye.”
“I’m sure it’s allergies; go back to bed for an hour and tell your dad.”
Honey, look at the clock before you call your dear mother on her weekend off. Please!
I had to bail on Ethan’s 9am game on Saturday. I just couldn’t bear the thought of sitting on the cold bleacher, probably unshowered, while my nice, warm bed was still available. I have to be there at 9am next weekend anyway. Unfortunately, they lost their game. Boo! Ethan said he got a hit, but I never heard any details.
Joe went to prom on Saturday. Whoa! That makes even me feel old!
PJ and I tried Bonefish Grill on Saturday night. Tres Magnifique! They were busy, so we sat at the bar. I tried an expresso martini. I’m not big on martinis, but it was delish! PJ didn’t like it; I have no idea why. I didn’t care at that point anyway.
My rhododendrons are blooming! *must take a picture*
We attended my friend’s 30th birthday party on Sunday afternoon. It was fun! And my cheeseburger hit the spot!
Ethan wasn’t feeling too hot when he came home from his dad’s. I sent him off to school this morning with the secret hope that I’d have to leave early to get him, but alas, he’s made it almost the whole day. I hope he gets his homework done and can rest up tonight.
Game on Wednesday at 6pm. I hope it’s warm. Daggone cold weather came back yesterday! And then Discovery Park reception on Thursday. I think it’ll prove to be yet another busy week.
Thursday, May 04, 2006
Thirty Lines to Make You Smile Today
I got this list in my email a while ago, but it still cracks me up. I was talking about it with one of my sisters-in-law and thought I’d post it. I highlighted my favorites.
My husband and I divorced over religious differences…he thought he was God and I didn’t.
I don’t suffer from insanity; I enjoy every minute of it.
I work hard because millions on welfare depend on me.
Some people are only alive because it’s illegal to kill them.
I used to have a handle on life, but it broke.
Don’t take life to seriously; no one gets out alive.
You’re just jealous because the voices only talk to me.
Beauty is in the eye of the beer holder.
Earth is the insane asylum for the universe.
I’m not a complete idiot – some parts are missing!
Out of my mind. Back in five minutes.
Nyquil – the stuffy, sneezy, why-the-heck-is-the-room-spinning medicine.
God must love stupid people; He made so many of them.
The gene pool could use a little chlorine.
Consciousness: That annoying time between naps.
Ever stop to think and forget to start again?
Being “over the hill” is better than being under it!
Wrinkled was not one of the things I wanted to be when I grew up.
Procrastinate now!
I have a degree in liberal arts; do you want fries with that?
A hangover is the wrath of grapes.
A journey of a thousand miles begins with a cash advance.
Stupidity is not a handicap! Park elsewhere!
They call it PMS because Mad Cow Disease was already taken.
He who dies with the most toys is nonetheless dead.
A picture is worth a thousand words, but uses up three thousand times the memory.
Ham and eggs: A day’s work for a chicken, a lifetime commitment for a pig.
The trouble with life is there’s no background music.
The original point and click interface was a Smith and Wesson.
I smile because I don’t know what the heck is going on.
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
I remembered my camera!
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
Another one bites the dust!
I have forgotten my camera once again. Somehow I feel I may be a bad mom if I can't remember to take pictures of my son's various activities, but I digress...
The game was against the Nationals. We saw several of our old teammates! Unfortunately, they whooped us 11-5 (or thereabouts). Ethan made it to home plate once!
Ethan informed us yesterday that he has a new girlfriend, Nancy. Tori is "so last week." Anyway, he and Tori are still friends and Ethan confirmed that Nancy knew she was his girlfriend (as opposed to it being a surprise). Well, that's good, Ethan.
My Saturday plans got unexpectedly cancelled, which means that not only can I go to Ethan's game (at 9am), but I also get to see PJ some! I think we might even go on a date (though that might mean to a bar somewhere so he can see everyone he hasn't seen in ages...hmmm....).
If you're free on Saturday night, let us know, maybe we can meet up with you.
The game was against the Nationals. We saw several of our old teammates! Unfortunately, they whooped us 11-5 (or thereabouts). Ethan made it to home plate once!
Ethan informed us yesterday that he has a new girlfriend, Nancy. Tori is "so last week." Anyway, he and Tori are still friends and Ethan confirmed that Nancy knew she was his girlfriend (as opposed to it being a surprise). Well, that's good, Ethan.
My Saturday plans got unexpectedly cancelled, which means that not only can I go to Ethan's game (at 9am), but I also get to see PJ some! I think we might even go on a date (though that might mean to a bar somewhere so he can see everyone he hasn't seen in ages...hmmm....).
If you're free on Saturday night, let us know, maybe we can meet up with you.
Monday, May 01, 2006
Whew!
The last few days have been a whirlwind. We had the viewing for PJ’s grandma on Thursday. The funeral was Friday. It was sad, as they usually are, but things went smoothly. We had a really neat funeral procession though. There were about a dozen vehicles and seven police officers. And they totally took us the long way to the cemetery in Arlington.
Friday night, Joe worked (see PJ’s entry on Joe's new job here). Ethan had a game. It was the make up game from the previous Saturday. They lost. They lost the last game too. I can’t even remember how Ethan did.
Saturday morning, Ethan had baseball pictures at 7:45am. Who’s idea was that??!!! Too damn early. Anyway, he had a game at 9 and they won! I can’t recall any spectacular feats by our favorite Padre, but he did cross home plate at least once. After all that, we helped a friend load up a moving truck, had a pizza lunch at Seth’s house (one of PJ’s friends/co-workers) and then headed home to mow our 22” grass. Yes, there truly were some blades that were that tall. We looked so white trash. I’m embarrassed!
I should have taken pictures first, but I completely forgot! Anyway, it took hours to get the yard back into shape, but it is now and everything that is gonna be mulched is mulched. Weeding, weed-whacking and edging were done too!
Sunday, after church, we had lunch with PJ’s family…early Mother’s day (for his mom), late birthday for Joe and right on time graduation celebration for Chris. Yes, I neglected to bring my camera, so I have no pictures, but it was fun. I don’t much care for Outback, but I think everyone else enjoyed their meal.
Finally, the kids had to finish their homework and PJ had to finish his paper. I have no idea what time he got done last night. The dogs and I went to bed at 10.
Ethan has a game tomorrow night, a concert on Wednesday and I’m getting my hair done on Thursday (finally!). Should be a busy week.
Friday night, Joe worked (see PJ’s entry on Joe's new job here). Ethan had a game. It was the make up game from the previous Saturday. They lost. They lost the last game too. I can’t even remember how Ethan did.
Saturday morning, Ethan had baseball pictures at 7:45am. Who’s idea was that??!!! Too damn early. Anyway, he had a game at 9 and they won! I can’t recall any spectacular feats by our favorite Padre, but he did cross home plate at least once. After all that, we helped a friend load up a moving truck, had a pizza lunch at Seth’s house (one of PJ’s friends/co-workers) and then headed home to mow our 22” grass. Yes, there truly were some blades that were that tall. We looked so white trash. I’m embarrassed!
I should have taken pictures first, but I completely forgot! Anyway, it took hours to get the yard back into shape, but it is now and everything that is gonna be mulched is mulched. Weeding, weed-whacking and edging were done too!
Sunday, after church, we had lunch with PJ’s family…early Mother’s day (for his mom), late birthday for Joe and right on time graduation celebration for Chris. Yes, I neglected to bring my camera, so I have no pictures, but it was fun. I don’t much care for Outback, but I think everyone else enjoyed their meal.
Finally, the kids had to finish their homework and PJ had to finish his paper. I have no idea what time he got done last night. The dogs and I went to bed at 10.
Ethan has a game tomorrow night, a concert on Wednesday and I’m getting my hair done on Thursday (finally!). Should be a busy week.
Monday, April 24, 2006
Mixed Emotions
So, this was a pretty trying weekend. I’m glad it’s over, but I have a feeling this week won’t be much better.
We got a call on Saturday morning from PJ’s mom informing us of her mother’s passing. We are sad to lose another grandparent, even though she was not in the best of health. It made for a solemn start to the weekend.
Ethan’s game and parade were cancelled due to rain, which is okay by me. His game was rescheduled to Friday, 4/28, at 5:30pm. I’ll have all the kids for that game.
We attended a wedding this weekend too. It would have been more fun and exciting had I not had to be DD and had we not received such somber news that morning. Of course, we still had a nice time. Pictures forthcoming, but I didn’t have the desire to download anything yet.
My sister-in-law had her birthday on Saturday too. I didn’t speak with her, but I sent a card and a text message. I wasn’t really in a birthday mood. Sorry Dawn.
On Sunday, we attended a class at church. And Ethan had fun in the fifth grade class. PJ has a huge paper to write and that consumed more time than he wanted it to.
I forgot to call my good friend, Kelly, on Sunday, as I was so out of sorts. We’re still waiting on word of the funeral arrangements.
Game tonight…I’ll try to remember my camera.
Joe’s birthday is tomorrow. We’re celebrating on Wednesday. Tonight, he cuts the lawn. Hahahahaha. Mom’s birthday is tomorrow too, but she already got her cool aquarium set up from Heidi and me (fish still alive, Mom?).
We got a call on Saturday morning from PJ’s mom informing us of her mother’s passing. We are sad to lose another grandparent, even though she was not in the best of health. It made for a solemn start to the weekend.
Ethan’s game and parade were cancelled due to rain, which is okay by me. His game was rescheduled to Friday, 4/28, at 5:30pm. I’ll have all the kids for that game.
We attended a wedding this weekend too. It would have been more fun and exciting had I not had to be DD and had we not received such somber news that morning. Of course, we still had a nice time. Pictures forthcoming, but I didn’t have the desire to download anything yet.
My sister-in-law had her birthday on Saturday too. I didn’t speak with her, but I sent a card and a text message. I wasn’t really in a birthday mood. Sorry Dawn.
On Sunday, we attended a class at church. And Ethan had fun in the fifth grade class. PJ has a huge paper to write and that consumed more time than he wanted it to.
I forgot to call my good friend, Kelly, on Sunday, as I was so out of sorts. We’re still waiting on word of the funeral arrangements.
Game tonight…I’ll try to remember my camera.
Joe’s birthday is tomorrow. We’re celebrating on Wednesday. Tonight, he cuts the lawn. Hahahahaha. Mom’s birthday is tomorrow too, but she already got her cool aquarium set up from Heidi and me (fish still alive, Mom?).
Thursday, April 20, 2006
The Giants vs. The Padres
Oh yeah! Ethan's team (the Padres, in case you forgot) had their first game tonight. The game started off strong with a hit right away and then things sorta stalled.
Then the other team scored three runs! Then we scored three runs. That put us at 4-3.
Then Ethan came up to bat. Bases were loaded. He knocked the ball right into centerfield! No one was ready. Two runners came in and Ethan made it almost to third base before they called the inning (in this Little League once there are 4 runs, they end that half of the inning). I have no doubt that Ethan would have made a home run if he was allowed to...would have been a Grand Slam!
He pitched after that and didn't let any runners make it home. He was so proud! Final score: 8-4, Padres.
Opening day parade on Saturday at 0900. And game number 2 at 1530. Too bad I have a wedding to be at!
Then the other team scored three runs! Then we scored three runs. That put us at 4-3.
Then Ethan came up to bat. Bases were loaded. He knocked the ball right into centerfield! No one was ready. Two runners came in and Ethan made it almost to third base before they called the inning (in this Little League once there are 4 runs, they end that half of the inning). I have no doubt that Ethan would have made a home run if he was allowed to...would have been a Grand Slam!
He pitched after that and didn't let any runners make it home. He was so proud! Final score: 8-4, Padres.
Opening day parade on Saturday at 0900. And game number 2 at 1530. Too bad I have a wedding to be at!
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Lots of Updates
I’m not doing a very good job of keeping up with this blog. It’s too bad I don’t have more time. At any rate, here are some updates.
Ethan came home from Florida on Friday, 4/14. His flight was about 30 minutes late, but he arrived safe and sound. We made it home from National at about 10.30pm. It was a late night after being up since about 5am.
Our Easter was pretty nice. Ethan and I went to church with Jen and her friend Mary and her kids. Then we went home to get PJ and the food (I made Glazed Parsnips) and we headed out to Middletown, VA, where PJ’s aunt lives. Holy Smokes it’s a long drive!
I accepted the position of Food Coordinator for the Discovery Park build at the meeting last night. I wonder what I’m getting myself into. I need to find some volunteers to help distribute and whatnot. I also need to find some more places who can donate food. I hope I haven’t bitten off more than I can chew (no pun intended)!
It looks like we’re getting a new roof at the end of May. More details on that once I know them. I’ll post pictures then too.
My friend sent me a link last week to a site that shows the names, addresses and offenses of registered sex offenders. I have checked it out in the past (different site), but this time, I was surprised by two things. First, one of the men on the list is my friend’s father. I was very surprised. Secondly, there is supposedly a sexual predator registered at an address on the street perpendicular to ours. I haven’t decided about talking to the kids yet. I don’t recognize the picture, so it may be inaccurate and I don’t want them running in fear of an imaginary predator. I also want them to be cautious of strange men though (this particular guy was registered for crimes against children).
Finally, we have figured out pretty much all of our vacation plans and have requested the appropriate time off. We’re going to Ohio to PJ’s family reunion. We go every year. We’re also going to Cedar Point (a regular thing) and Soak City (a first!). Then, on the way home, we’re going to go by and see my Gram in Indiana. I think we’ll spend a couple days there and then head home. It will be a fun time, and I think my stepbrother, Will, might be coming with us. Possibly our nephew, Aaron too.
I’m trying to figure out how to get a calendar up here since there’s so much going on. Not much luck in figuring that out yet. Dawn’s birthday is April 22. Mom’s is April 25th and Joe’s is April 25th. Apparently the end of the month was a popular time to have babies!
Oh, I almost forgot! I completed 99% of the mulching, but I didn’t take any more pictures (the neighbors are getting suspicious) and yes, eventually we’ll move the CDs to the new shelves. Still haven’t gotten to that.
Ethan came home from Florida on Friday, 4/14. His flight was about 30 minutes late, but he arrived safe and sound. We made it home from National at about 10.30pm. It was a late night after being up since about 5am.
Our Easter was pretty nice. Ethan and I went to church with Jen and her friend Mary and her kids. Then we went home to get PJ and the food (I made Glazed Parsnips) and we headed out to Middletown, VA, where PJ’s aunt lives. Holy Smokes it’s a long drive!
I accepted the position of Food Coordinator for the Discovery Park build at the meeting last night. I wonder what I’m getting myself into. I need to find some volunteers to help distribute and whatnot. I also need to find some more places who can donate food. I hope I haven’t bitten off more than I can chew (no pun intended)!
It looks like we’re getting a new roof at the end of May. More details on that once I know them. I’ll post pictures then too.
My friend sent me a link last week to a site that shows the names, addresses and offenses of registered sex offenders. I have checked it out in the past (different site), but this time, I was surprised by two things. First, one of the men on the list is my friend’s father. I was very surprised. Secondly, there is supposedly a sexual predator registered at an address on the street perpendicular to ours. I haven’t decided about talking to the kids yet. I don’t recognize the picture, so it may be inaccurate and I don’t want them running in fear of an imaginary predator. I also want them to be cautious of strange men though (this particular guy was registered for crimes against children).
Finally, we have figured out pretty much all of our vacation plans and have requested the appropriate time off. We’re going to Ohio to PJ’s family reunion. We go every year. We’re also going to Cedar Point (a regular thing) and Soak City (a first!). Then, on the way home, we’re going to go by and see my Gram in Indiana. I think we’ll spend a couple days there and then head home. It will be a fun time, and I think my stepbrother, Will, might be coming with us. Possibly our nephew, Aaron too.
I’m trying to figure out how to get a calendar up here since there’s so much going on. Not much luck in figuring that out yet. Dawn’s birthday is April 22. Mom’s is April 25th and Joe’s is April 25th. Apparently the end of the month was a popular time to have babies!
Oh, I almost forgot! I completed 99% of the mulching, but I didn’t take any more pictures (the neighbors are getting suspicious) and yes, eventually we’ll move the CDs to the new shelves. Still haven’t gotten to that.
Thursday, April 13, 2006
CD Shelf finished!
So I didn't get the mulching done last night like I had hoped, but I do have a finished picture of the CD shelves PJ built! Woohoo! I just can't wait to move all the CDs... *sigh*
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
Weekend Work
We’ve spent the last few days taking advantage of the kids being out of town and thus getting some things done around the house.
We’re planning on rearranging the basement and in an effort to open up wall and floor space, we’ve devised one excellent solution! In the basement, the ventilation runs through the middle of the ceiling. We’ll call this the ventilation tunnel since I don’t know the technical name. Anyway, I see it as unused space, since we didn’t plan to decorate it and I’m over the idea of painting right now. So, I suggested we put a shelf up there and put our 500-some CDs on that shelf. It’s out of reach of the kids, but that’s okay, since they don’t often borrow our CDs anyway. I went to visit a friend this past weekend, but PJ worked diligently on a making a shelf with his buddy, Mike.
PJ went to Lowe’s - or was it Home Depot? – and picked up some lumber, decorative lumber and black satin finish spray paint (an idea I stole from my Elite friend, Meredith. Thanks, Meredith!). Of course, it was pouring on Saturday, so all the spray painting had to be done inside (Oh, it smelled REALLY nice). Then, since I was gone, I don’t know all the details, but somehow they managed to get it all up on the ventilation tunnel except for a few of the trim pieces. I got home on Monday and PJ was finishing up the trim pieces. Now we just have to move all the CDs.
PJ’s other major project for the week was mowing, edging, and weed-whacking the yards and delivering mulch for my flower beds. I’ll be mulching tonight, I hope! After the oh-so-much-fun task of grocery shopping.
Thursday, April 06, 2006
Discovery Park
Ethan’s elementary school doesn’t have much of a playground. Why? You ask. Well, let me explain. The school is a billion years old (okay, maybe about 30). And in our county, the schools are paid for with county funds (our taxes!), but the playgrounds are not! Seems the county believes that the constituents are paying for education, not for “fun,” which I guess is okay. Apparently PTOs and PTAs have to build the playgrounds. This goes for the tracks too.
Doesn’t seem like football fields, baseball fields or soccer fields are excluded…hmmm… but I digress.
So, Ethan’s school (Sully, by the way) used to have a rinky-dink playground. Well, the PTO decided to build a track (which the kids LOVE) and so the rinky-dink playground had to come down. There are a few chin-up bars left and a raggedy tot-lot. Not much to play on. I think there’s a tetherball pole or two.
Our PTO has decided that we need to build a playground and finally things are underway! Since we have to raise the money anyway, it was decided that we should build a science park. It’s really cool. You can see the design and whatnot here: http://www.sullypto.com/.
Of course, since this isn’t just a regular playground, it’s gonna cost a little bit more...something to the tune of about $135,000! But did I mention it’s cool?!
It was designed by Leathers & Associates from NY. http://www.leathersassociates.com/ They incorporated a replica Jamestown Fort/Williamsburg capital (something in the VA SOL tests). They’ve also made the whole park wheel-chair accessible! The LCSA (http://www.lcsa.org/) is providing a water wall too and there are many more educational aspects.
The park will be open to the community (or anyone who wants to drive to it) after school hours and on weekends.
So, you are now soooo interested that you want to know how you can help, right?! Great! WE NEED YOU’RE HELP! Of course, donations are greatly appreciated (and they are tax deductible too), but the playground must be built entirely by volunteers! The build dates are Oct 18-22, from 7am to 9pm daily. We need skilled and unskilled help! If there’s anything you can do, please contact the Sully PTO: peter@sullypto.com or Valerie@sullypto.com. We would love to have you working with us!
Doesn’t seem like football fields, baseball fields or soccer fields are excluded…hmmm… but I digress.
So, Ethan’s school (Sully, by the way) used to have a rinky-dink playground. Well, the PTO decided to build a track (which the kids LOVE) and so the rinky-dink playground had to come down. There are a few chin-up bars left and a raggedy tot-lot. Not much to play on. I think there’s a tetherball pole or two.
Our PTO has decided that we need to build a playground and finally things are underway! Since we have to raise the money anyway, it was decided that we should build a science park. It’s really cool. You can see the design and whatnot here: http://www.sullypto.com/.
Of course, since this isn’t just a regular playground, it’s gonna cost a little bit more...something to the tune of about $135,000! But did I mention it’s cool?!
It was designed by Leathers & Associates from NY. http://www.leathersassociates.com/ They incorporated a replica Jamestown Fort/Williamsburg capital (something in the VA SOL tests). They’ve also made the whole park wheel-chair accessible! The LCSA (http://www.lcsa.org/) is providing a water wall too and there are many more educational aspects.
The park will be open to the community (or anyone who wants to drive to it) after school hours and on weekends.
So, you are now soooo interested that you want to know how you can help, right?! Great! WE NEED YOU’RE HELP! Of course, donations are greatly appreciated (and they are tax deductible too), but the playground must be built entirely by volunteers! The build dates are Oct 18-22, from 7am to 9pm daily. We need skilled and unskilled help! If there’s anything you can do, please contact the Sully PTO: peter@sullypto.com or Valerie@sullypto.com. We would love to have you working with us!
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
Ethan’s Baseball Schedule for the 2006 Spring Season.
Ethan is on the AA San Diego Padres this season.
http://www.llbaseball.com/ (for more info)
April
8th – Claude Moore 3, 1-3pm
10th – Upper Meadowlands, 5:30-7:30pm
18th – Upper Meadowlands, 5:30-7:30pm
20th – Game 1 vs. Giants, Jack Jennings Field (JJF), 6pm
22nd – Opening day parade, 10am; Game 2 vs. Cardinals, Claude Moore 3, 3:30pm
24th – Game 3 vs. Diamondbacks, JJF, 6pm
29th – Game 4 vs. Rangers, JJF, 9am
May
2nd – Game 5 vs. Nationals, JJF, 6pm
6th – Game 6 vs. Diamondbacks, CM3, 9am
10th – Game 7 vs. Giants, CM3, 6pm
13th – Game 8 vs. Angels, JJF, 9am
15th – Game 9 vs. Nationals, JJF, 6pm
20th – Game 10 vs. Cardinals, CM3, 12pm
22nd – Game 11 vs. White Sox, CM3, 6pm
31st – Game 12 vs. Yankees, CM3, 6pm
June
3rd – Game 13 vs. Orioles, CM3, 6pm
Playoffs are June 5-9. Division Championship, June 10 and Championship game is on June 14 (if we make it that far!).
http://www.llbaseball.com/ (for more info)
April
8th – Claude Moore 3, 1-3pm
10th – Upper Meadowlands, 5:30-7:30pm
18th – Upper Meadowlands, 5:30-7:30pm
20th – Game 1 vs. Giants, Jack Jennings Field (JJF), 6pm
22nd – Opening day parade, 10am; Game 2 vs. Cardinals, Claude Moore 3, 3:30pm
24th – Game 3 vs. Diamondbacks, JJF, 6pm
29th – Game 4 vs. Rangers, JJF, 9am
May
2nd – Game 5 vs. Nationals, JJF, 6pm
6th – Game 6 vs. Diamondbacks, CM3, 9am
10th – Game 7 vs. Giants, CM3, 6pm
13th – Game 8 vs. Angels, JJF, 9am
15th – Game 9 vs. Nationals, JJF, 6pm
20th – Game 10 vs. Cardinals, CM3, 12pm
22nd – Game 11 vs. White Sox, CM3, 6pm
31st – Game 12 vs. Yankees, CM3, 6pm
June
3rd – Game 13 vs. Orioles, CM3, 6pm
Playoffs are June 5-9. Division Championship, June 10 and Championship game is on June 14 (if we make it that far!).
The first post!
So, we've finally decided to jump on the blog bandwagon. I hope to be able to update everyone with our sports and activity schedules, our summer vacations and all that jazz. Maybe I'll even be able to figure out the picture thing soon too! Hopefully more will be posted soon.
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