Catch up!

Has it really been 2 weeks since I've posted? AGH! Sorry!

So, here's what we've done...

March 3, we had Megan and PJ's joint family party. We had tacos for dinner.

And look at those cute cupcakes!

On March 4, we set up the aquarium. Here are Ethan and PJ studying the water...no fish yet!

On March 10, we were supposed to go out to dinner for PJ's birthday. Well, don't you know that PJ had a surprise party planned for me! So, after dinner, we came back and had cheesecake and the house was decorated! And then we went out to Bung's. Here's Trisha and me...I don't have many pictures for some reason. LOL

On March 11, we got fish for the aquarium. I still need to take some pictures.

Rumor will be going to live with the Saylors this coming weekend. We'll have lots of pictures from that!

Happy Birthday Megan! (and pictures)

Today is Megan's birthday. Here she is opening her gift. And check out Ethan's new do in the background. And here's a clip of Megan opening her gift.

Happy Birthday Megan!!!

And here's the surprise 4" of snow we got on 2/25!

Busy weekend coming up. PJ's birthday is almost here too. We'll be celebrating on Saturday!

Guess what Ethan did?!?!

He shaved his head!!!

Pictures soon....and a video I hope.

Potomac Falls Winter Guard

Sam's WG took first place again! Here's the video from last week's competition!

Couple of Pics

Valentine's dinner (we had pink eggs too) and Rumor enjoying a lollipop.

Snow Day...Oh and Happy Valentines!

I'm standing ON the snow here.

Crazy snow/ice storm. I think we have like four inches of "stuff" to clean up. PJ is faithfully shoveling...I think the kids get to finish the job later though.

Report Cards are in…

Megan got honor roll!
Ethan almost made honor roll!
Samantha did not do so hot…hmmm, does this mean a probation period for her?
Joe almost made honor roll also!

Samantha’s Winter Guard team took first place at a competition this past Saturday. There were about 50 teams. Way to go, Sam!

Happy Belated (2/3) Birthday to Jordan!

Happy Belated (2/7) Birthday to Natalie!

Happy Belated (2/10) Birthday to Rob!
...okay, I get it, I'm behind the eight ball here! Sorry!

We have an impending ice storm coming overnight and tomorrow. If it hits, that’ll mean a snow day for the kids tomorrow.

For Valentine’s Day, we’ll be having pink, heart-shaped pancakes for dinner!

Nickel!

So on Friday, 1/26, Ethan and I drove down to Raleigh to see Rob, Dawn and Nickel. Oh he's a cutie, that's for sure! And such a good baby. Here's a clip of him being adorable.



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Aside from that, we just did stuff around the house this past weekend. I'm sure I have more updates, but I need more time. :)

THIS JUST IN!!!!!

Joe got accepted into his first choice college!!!! Wooohooo!!! Decisions, decisions....

Congrats Joe! We knew you could do it!!!

Busy Times....

So there’s no school today. We got about 2.5” of snow, but a lot of freezing rain apparently fell too (we weren’t home for this). There’s a lot of ice on the roads. I wish I had the day off too!

Polo had a vet appointment last week. $360 and a low white blood cell count, but otherwise he’s okay. We’re double-checking the blood work here soon and then we’ll decide if further testing is necessary. I hope not.

Aaron’s 14th birthday was this past Friday. We weren’t able to celebrate with him on Friday, but we saw him for a minute. The kids all spent the night with Aunts Tammy & Lisa and then we celebrated Aaron’s birthday on Sunday. It was a good time to catch up with family too.

We attended PJ’s company’s post-holiday holiday party on Saturday night. It was nice and the food was good. We only knew a few people, but had a nice time meeting others. Next year, I assume we’ll know more people and it should be even more fun.

Ethan and I are going to NC this weekend to see Rob, Dawn and baby Nickel! woohoo!

Rumor did some redecorating in our backyard recently. Great, huh?

yessir, that's my boy....

You may or may not have heard, but Joe was in a couple of competitions over this past weekend.

Saturday morning, he was involved in district level DECA (Distributive Education) competition. This is related to his marketing class. They compete in written tests as well as role-playing scenarios related to the real-world work environment. Results were not shared until Monday night.

Saturday afternoon, he had tryouts for the All-District band. He's played a couple of instruments in the band over the past couple of years, but he chose to do his tryouts on the French Horn. He got the results later that afternoon, and was accepted to play with the band.

Monday night, he got the news that he scored second in the District on his DECA competition. He'll be competing in VA state competition coming up in March.

CONGRATULATIONS ! ! ! !

AAAAHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!

It's totally 2007 and I'm so slacking in my blogging already. Why does the rest of the world have to intefere with my blogging? *sigh* HAHA Anyway, lots and lots of news!!!!

First of all, Merry Belated Christmas and Happy Belated New Year! Happy Belated Birthday to me. Ah yes, I celebrated the big 3-1. And I bet you thought I was going to be 29 AGAIN! I wish, but alas, time marches on.

So, my little nephew, Nickel (that's his nickname...his parents have more class than to give him that as a real name, puh-leez), was born on Christmas day. 8 lbs, 1 oz.! He was 5 days late...the little booger. I couldn't go visit him cuz of his tardiness though. It'll have to wait...maybe January works...hmmmm. Here's a little picture of him.

Isn't he a cutie? I know, small picture and all. I'm waiting for even more pictures from my brother. I have a feeling there's a lot of sleep deprivation going on there.

PJ started a new job yesterday. He's still with the same employer...just a different contract. His commute went from about 90 minutes down to 12. Yeah, he's a happy camper. I think he likes what he's doing, but it's too new to know.

Oh yeah, I promised you our family picture. I don't think I posted it yet, here it is. :)

Kerry did a fantastic job. Thanks Kerry!!

Hey, if you haven't yet, consider subscribing through bloglines. It'll automatically update you when I update the blog. AND IT'S FREE PEOPLE...come on, feed my ego. There are only two subscribers so far. waaaahhhh!!! There's a button on the right of this page somewhere.

Ethan Really was at the concert

Really, he was!

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

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!!

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!

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!

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.

• 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!!!!

Get out and vote!

vote
Originally uploaded by * -a fake photographer- gtstuff.

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!!

Happy Halloween!!

Happy Haunting tonight!

(Halloween Spirit, Originally uploaded by TriLauraTri.)

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?

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*

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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!

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**

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.

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).

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!

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!

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.

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!

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

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!!

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!