Just got back from my weekend scrapbook retreat. I got 75 pages done! Woo hoo!
Bobby had a good weekend with the kiddos. They did all kinds of fun stuff! But, as much fun as I had at the retreat I missed my hubby and my babies!
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Friday, September 28, 2007
Bribery seems to be working
So there were no tears yesterday at drop off and only the faintest hint that there might be some this morning. At the first waver in the voice I said "Want sum gum?" Which got a nice smile and a vigorous nod of the head. Munchkin wanted me to walk to the door with her this morning so I took the wipe she washed the strawberries off her face with, with me so I could take her gum before going through the door.
Apparently, we are not the only ones trying the bribery tactic. We saw one of Munchkins friends at her car so we went over so the two girls could walk in together. The mom asked if Munchkin was allowed to have McDonald's. I said yes and she said that she had just told her daughter that she would bring her a happy meal if she would walk in with no tears. If they both went in together she would bring one for each of them. So, Both girls are getting chicken nuggets and french fries for lunch. Just for the record, I did pack a lunch that was healthy and nutritious. Who doesn't like a treat of McD's at school though!
Bobby is taking Munchkin to the Build A Bear Workshop today to pick-up Princess Ballerinas costume. She did great and that was one of the motivating factors was getting to go shop.
Maybe we are over this hump....keep praying please!! :)
Apparently, we are not the only ones trying the bribery tactic. We saw one of Munchkins friends at her car so we went over so the two girls could walk in together. The mom asked if Munchkin was allowed to have McDonald's. I said yes and she said that she had just told her daughter that she would bring her a happy meal if she would walk in with no tears. If they both went in together she would bring one for each of them. So, Both girls are getting chicken nuggets and french fries for lunch. Just for the record, I did pack a lunch that was healthy and nutritious. Who doesn't like a treat of McD's at school though!
Bobby is taking Munchkin to the Build A Bear Workshop today to pick-up Princess Ballerinas costume. She did great and that was one of the motivating factors was getting to go shop.
Maybe we are over this hump....keep praying please!! :)
Thursday, September 27, 2007
A better start
OK, so we were running a little behind this morning...but not bad. It is also pouring down rain here. Munchkin was pretty excited because she got to use an umbrella to get to the car. She hopped right in so we could run through McD's and get some breakfast.
As we sat and ate I asked if she was sometimes sad because Little Man got to stay home with me and she was at school all day. Her answer was yes. So, I tried to explain to her that she stayed home with me all by herself for her first 2 years. Plus she is a big girl and gets to learn all kinds of new things. We said prayers before she got out of the car and she was happy. She gave me a kiss when I opened her door and said she would try to have a good day...with a smile on her face. She kind of had to run because it was sprinkling at that point but even turned and waved close to the door. Did we pass through a phase or is the bribery of a new outfit for her bear what made her happy? Oh yeah, we also talked about doing a mommy daughter dance class. I think she might want to do that...
As we sat and ate I asked if she was sometimes sad because Little Man got to stay home with me and she was at school all day. Her answer was yes. So, I tried to explain to her that she stayed home with me all by herself for her first 2 years. Plus she is a big girl and gets to learn all kinds of new things. We said prayers before she got out of the car and she was happy. She gave me a kiss when I opened her door and said she would try to have a good day...with a smile on her face. She kind of had to run because it was sprinkling at that point but even turned and waved close to the door. Did we pass through a phase or is the bribery of a new outfit for her bear what made her happy? Oh yeah, we also talked about doing a mommy daughter dance class. I think she might want to do that...
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Where will bribery get us?
I have 2 $10 coupons to Build A Bear workshop from Munchkins birthday party. We did not go to the mall today because she cried after See Ya At the Pole. I told her if there is no crying tomorrow or Friday we will go to Build A Bear and she can get the cheerleader costume for her bear "Princess Ballerina". She is going as an East Side Cheerleader for Halloween and wants the bear to match. The costume is $10. Yeah for only paying tax. If she doesn't cry all of next week we will go to Build A Bear again and use the other certificate.
Do you bribe your kids? Does it work?
Do you bribe your kids? Does it work?
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Dr visit
Well, I took Munchkin to the Dr today to see about her tummy ache. She has complained about her stomach hurting for quite awhile but it has been much more constant the last couple of weeks. The Dr did a throat culture, a urinalysis and check her tummy to see if anything was swollen. She looks good, no hernias or anything like that. They are going to let the 2 samples "cook" for a couple of days to see if anything develops. In the meantime we were given some samples of Axid (an acid reducer) to see if that helps. Anything to help her sleep and feel good about going to school!
Going downhill
I am not sure what is going on with Munchkin. Yesterday I dropped her off at school and she was fine. She was happy when she came home, had a green apple mark in her folder and seemed like school was going good.
Today after reading her library book to her, saying prayers in the car, as we were getting out she started to have a meltdown. She said she was tired and she wanted to stay with me. I walked into school with her and when we got about 20 feet from her class she wouldn't go any farther. She just kept saying she was tired and wanted me. (That just broke my heart)
Her teacher came out and said that yesterday she didn't have her library book and had a meltdown to the point where she was screaming and crying and even smacked the teachers hand.
Munchkin rarely has this kind of temper tantrum but when she does they are all out screaming fits.
I don't know what the problem is. We are going to the Doctor today to see about her tummy hurting. She has complained for a really long time about her tummy hurting but it has always come up around bedtime, kind of as an excuse not to go to sleep. She doesn't have a fever, rash or any other nasty symptoms. You don't ever wish there is something wrong with your kids but if there is I hope it can be fixed.
Ahhh.. What am I going to do with her?
Today after reading her library book to her, saying prayers in the car, as we were getting out she started to have a meltdown. She said she was tired and she wanted to stay with me. I walked into school with her and when we got about 20 feet from her class she wouldn't go any farther. She just kept saying she was tired and wanted me. (That just broke my heart)
Her teacher came out and said that yesterday she didn't have her library book and had a meltdown to the point where she was screaming and crying and even smacked the teachers hand.
Munchkin rarely has this kind of temper tantrum but when she does they are all out screaming fits.
I don't know what the problem is. We are going to the Doctor today to see about her tummy hurting. She has complained for a really long time about her tummy hurting but it has always come up around bedtime, kind of as an excuse not to go to sleep. She doesn't have a fever, rash or any other nasty symptoms. You don't ever wish there is something wrong with your kids but if there is I hope it can be fixed.
Ahhh.. What am I going to do with her?
Monday, September 24, 2007
Season Premiere Week
What shows are you excited about that start this week?
Our list includes but is not limited to:
Heroes
CSI:Miami (it totally has the best writing don't you think? )
The Office
Grey's Anatomy
CSI
Without A Trace
Yeah, once TV season starts Netflix gets pushed to the rear.
Our list includes but is not limited to:
Heroes
CSI:Miami (it totally has the best writing don't you think? )
The Office
Grey's Anatomy
CSI
Without A Trace
Yeah, once TV season starts Netflix gets pushed to the rear.
Sunday, September 23, 2007
tagged
my friend, Suzanne over at Joyfulchaos, tagged me to give 8 random facts about myself. is there really anything left that you don’t know about me?!
1. I have to post these rules before I give you the facts.
2. Each player starts with eight random facts/habits about themselves3. People who are tagged need to write their own blog (about their eight things) and post these rules.
4. At the end of your blog, you need to choose eight people to get tagged and list their names.
5. Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them they’re tagged, and to read your blog.
1. I had my gall bladder removed in 2000. Bobby was not told that I was in recovery so he played Command and Conquer on the computer for 2 hours when he finally realized I should be out by then. The dummies didn't bother to come tell him when I went to recovery like they said they would. I thought I would be back to work the next day....yeah I was out a week.
2. One of my favorite places in the world is the top of Half Dome in Yosemite National Park.
3. I was first chair flute for 2 years in High School. I got to move up to Wind Ensemble as a sophomore with another girl that moved around the same time I did. We were 2 of the first sophomores to get into wind ensemble.
4. I really feel like I have to be invited to go to someones house. It is hard for me to just "drop by" or invite myself over.
5. My bowling team was 10th in the nation when I was 10 years old. We were the Pink Panthers.
6. I have been a Christan since I was 7 years old but my relationship with Christ really took off when I was a sophomore in high school.
7. I am most comfortable in a church that has contemporary music but doesn't forget the hymns, that dunks for baptism because it is a public profession of faith, and preaches from the Bible. I am learning more about why some denominations sprinkle and how growing up as a Christian in some cases does not differ from a "personal experience with Christ".
8. I love Gerbera Daisies and Tiger Lilies! Both were included in my wedding bouquet.
-Angela, Kim, Laura, Sara, Sarah, Ray, Brea, Craig you’re up!
1. I have to post these rules before I give you the facts.
2. Each player starts with eight random facts/habits about themselves3. People who are tagged need to write their own blog (about their eight things) and post these rules.
4. At the end of your blog, you need to choose eight people to get tagged and list their names.
5. Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them they’re tagged, and to read your blog.
1. I had my gall bladder removed in 2000. Bobby was not told that I was in recovery so he played Command and Conquer on the computer for 2 hours when he finally realized I should be out by then. The dummies didn't bother to come tell him when I went to recovery like they said they would. I thought I would be back to work the next day....yeah I was out a week.
2. One of my favorite places in the world is the top of Half Dome in Yosemite National Park.
3. I was first chair flute for 2 years in High School. I got to move up to Wind Ensemble as a sophomore with another girl that moved around the same time I did. We were 2 of the first sophomores to get into wind ensemble.
4. I really feel like I have to be invited to go to someones house. It is hard for me to just "drop by" or invite myself over.
5. My bowling team was 10th in the nation when I was 10 years old. We were the Pink Panthers.
6. I have been a Christan since I was 7 years old but my relationship with Christ really took off when I was a sophomore in high school.
7. I am most comfortable in a church that has contemporary music but doesn't forget the hymns, that dunks for baptism because it is a public profession of faith, and preaches from the Bible. I am learning more about why some denominations sprinkle and how growing up as a Christian in some cases does not differ from a "personal experience with Christ".
8. I love Gerbera Daisies and Tiger Lilies! Both were included in my wedding bouquet.
-Angela, Kim, Laura, Sara, Sarah, Ray, Brea, Craig you’re up!
The Mile High City
Last weekend was our whirlwind trip to Denver Colorado. It was beautiful! We flew our Saturday night and got in around 8:30. We felt kind of bad because we ate dinner before we left Nashville and everyone waited for us to eat dinner. This meant we got back to the hotel oh about midnight. Munchkin fell asleep on the ride from the airport, woke up long enough to say high to her cousins and proceeded to fall back asleep for the entire time at Applebees. Sidenote: I am not a fan of Applebees. Every one I have been in has had terrible service and this one was no exception. The waiter was really nice but we ordered appetizers and dessert and we were there for 2 hours.
This was the view from our hotel room. Oh how I miss the mountains!
Before we left for the wedding Grandpa got this cute shot of us. Of course we can't get all four of us to smile at once. At least Little Man has a great smile in this one!
To keep Little Man occupied Grandpa helped him stand on one foot! The concentration on Little Mans face is priceless!
Bobby's mom and dad rented a van for all of us to get around in. We were short one seat so Munchkin got strapped in on our laps. None of us are small people so we thought it was funny to squish in the backseat. I don't know how those three six foot tall people actually had any leg room back there!
Once we got to the hotel that the wedding was at we had a few minutes to wait. Munchkin went to say hi to Grandma. She was so excited to see her. Taking pictures of the kids helped at least for a moment keep them out of the lovely fountain behind Grandma and Munchkin. I have to keep reminding myself "they are building immunity" when I catch them doing things like licking the glass in the fountain.
There is a discussion over at Music City Moms about if your kids are not invited would you go to a wedding. Our friends Matt and Marci, that got married last October,requested that no kids attend. Their wedding was on the side of a cliff and completely understandable. My parents live not too far away so we were able to drop the kids off and have a weekend to ourselves. This wedding all of the kids were invited to. We were responsible parents (as were Jon and Teri , Bobby's brother and sister in law) and sat near the back so if we had a distracting child we could remove them quickly and quietly. Of course at this particular wedding Little Man being distracting was not an issue at all!
We got all of the cute dressed up cousins together for a picture.
These are Bobby's brothers. Joe is on the left. He and Roxanna have been married for almost 3 years . Jon is in the middle. He is married to Teri and they have 6 kids. And then there is Bobby of course! Aren't they cute?
A sweet moment between daddy and Little Man.
Munchkin and cousin #4 were reliving their Flower Girl/Ring Bearer days from 3 years ago.
Finally a picture of the Bride and Groom. This is Jason and Amanda. Jason is Bobby's cousin. Hey Ray, if you are reading this ask Katie if she is related to any Farnsworths in Colorado. Amanda just reminded me of her.
This is Munchkin with Bobby's cousin Billy. The last time we saw him he was in high school and we went to Medieval Times in Anaheim. He is now a successful businessman. Munchkin and Billy were sitting next to each other at the wedding. She entertained him by counting to 99 and telling him about all the veggies she likes to eat. He was very sweet to her.
I made the mistake of telling Munchkin that there would be dancing at the reception. From the time we got out of the car until dinner she kept asking when she would get to dance. She asked as soon as we sat down at the ceremony, she asked as soon as the ceremony was over, while we were waiting to go to the reception, when we sat down for dinner, halfway through dinner, while Jason and Amanda were dancing, and finally when she was able to go. Once they opened the floor for everyone she and Little Man were the first ones on the floor. They pretty much stayed on the dance floor for the rest of the reception. One of my favorite moves by Little Man included putting both hands on the back of his head and shaking his booty back and forth. He also tried to do the worm.
Once we left the reception we decided to take a dip in the hotel pool. The kids LOVED swimming and playing together. It was fun to see Munchkin learn how to do a cannonball from her cousins. We then made our way to the Black Eyed Pea which was closed for remodeling and then went to Chilis. We had a party of 16 and the service was fantastic! The waiter remembered everyones orders, our drinks were never empty, and I never got a regular coke instead of diet. There is a reason that Chilis is the new golf course.
Mom and Dad wanted to leave really early the next morning to get to the airport. It is a good thing we did too. The airport was packed! It took us a really long time to get through security but everyone was in good spirits so it was OK. We had quite a while to explore the airport and both kids did great the entire time. We flew Frontier which we really liked. It was $5 to watch TV but it was worth it to keep Munchkin occupied. Little Man fell asleep for most of the flight.
It was a really fast trip and we didn't get to see much of Colorado but it was fun. Plus being with family is always a good thing!
This was the view from our hotel room. Oh how I miss the mountains!
Before we left for the wedding Grandpa got this cute shot of us. Of course we can't get all four of us to smile at once. At least Little Man has a great smile in this one!
To keep Little Man occupied Grandpa helped him stand on one foot! The concentration on Little Mans face is priceless!
Bobby's mom and dad rented a van for all of us to get around in. We were short one seat so Munchkin got strapped in on our laps. None of us are small people so we thought it was funny to squish in the backseat. I don't know how those three six foot tall people actually had any leg room back there!
Once we got to the hotel that the wedding was at we had a few minutes to wait. Munchkin went to say hi to Grandma. She was so excited to see her. Taking pictures of the kids helped at least for a moment keep them out of the lovely fountain behind Grandma and Munchkin. I have to keep reminding myself "they are building immunity" when I catch them doing things like licking the glass in the fountain.
There is a discussion over at Music City Moms about if your kids are not invited would you go to a wedding. Our friends Matt and Marci, that got married last October,requested that no kids attend. Their wedding was on the side of a cliff and completely understandable. My parents live not too far away so we were able to drop the kids off and have a weekend to ourselves. This wedding all of the kids were invited to. We were responsible parents (as were Jon and Teri , Bobby's brother and sister in law) and sat near the back so if we had a distracting child we could remove them quickly and quietly. Of course at this particular wedding Little Man being distracting was not an issue at all!
We got all of the cute dressed up cousins together for a picture.
These are Bobby's brothers. Joe is on the left. He and Roxanna have been married for almost 3 years . Jon is in the middle. He is married to Teri and they have 6 kids. And then there is Bobby of course! Aren't they cute?
A sweet moment between daddy and Little Man.
Munchkin and cousin #4 were reliving their Flower Girl/Ring Bearer days from 3 years ago.
Finally a picture of the Bride and Groom. This is Jason and Amanda. Jason is Bobby's cousin. Hey Ray, if you are reading this ask Katie if she is related to any Farnsworths in Colorado. Amanda just reminded me of her.
This is Munchkin with Bobby's cousin Billy. The last time we saw him he was in high school and we went to Medieval Times in Anaheim. He is now a successful businessman. Munchkin and Billy were sitting next to each other at the wedding. She entertained him by counting to 99 and telling him about all the veggies she likes to eat. He was very sweet to her.
I made the mistake of telling Munchkin that there would be dancing at the reception. From the time we got out of the car until dinner she kept asking when she would get to dance. She asked as soon as we sat down at the ceremony, she asked as soon as the ceremony was over, while we were waiting to go to the reception, when we sat down for dinner, halfway through dinner, while Jason and Amanda were dancing, and finally when she was able to go. Once they opened the floor for everyone she and Little Man were the first ones on the floor. They pretty much stayed on the dance floor for the rest of the reception. One of my favorite moves by Little Man included putting both hands on the back of his head and shaking his booty back and forth. He also tried to do the worm.
Once we left the reception we decided to take a dip in the hotel pool. The kids LOVED swimming and playing together. It was fun to see Munchkin learn how to do a cannonball from her cousins. We then made our way to the Black Eyed Pea which was closed for remodeling and then went to Chilis. We had a party of 16 and the service was fantastic! The waiter remembered everyones orders, our drinks were never empty, and I never got a regular coke instead of diet. There is a reason that Chilis is the new golf course.Mom and Dad wanted to leave really early the next morning to get to the airport. It is a good thing we did too. The airport was packed! It took us a really long time to get through security but everyone was in good spirits so it was OK. We had quite a while to explore the airport and both kids did great the entire time. We flew Frontier which we really liked. It was $5 to watch TV but it was worth it to keep Munchkin occupied. Little Man fell asleep for most of the flight.
It was a really fast trip and we didn't get to see much of Colorado but it was fun. Plus being with family is always a good thing!
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Birthday Party
Last week was a busy one... I think I may have mentioned that though. So far we have been to 2 birthday parties since school started. They have been fun for me partially because I am getting to know some of the other parents from Munchkins school. For this party there were 5 kids from Munchkins class. They had a blast. It was a My Little Pony party. When we got there each of the kids painted a pony suncatcher, then played pin the emblem on the pony. Munchkin was so close then at the last second moved about 10 inches higher to place her sticker. Can't say I was disappointed that she didn't get the giant sugar stick that was the prize. ;-p
She did get a really good whack on the pony pinata though!
She was the first to give it a visible wound. Once it burst open the poor birthday girl was shoved out of the way as the bigger kids all dove for the candy.
Munchkin always cracks me up. You would think any child of mine would get as much candy as they can. Not her, she was really happy to get all of the fun foam stickers that came flying out.
After the party we went to Bar-B-Cutie for dinner and then Rox took us to the airport to fly to Colorado. What a fun day! :)
She did get a really good whack on the pony pinata though!
She was the first to give it a visible wound. Once it burst open the poor birthday girl was shoved out of the way as the bigger kids all dove for the candy.Munchkin always cracks me up. You would think any child of mine would get as much candy as they can. Not her, she was really happy to get all of the fun foam stickers that came flying out.
After the party we went to Bar-B-Cutie for dinner and then Rox took us to the airport to fly to Colorado. What a fun day! :)
Friday, September 21, 2007
See you at the pole
Next Wednesday is See you at the Pole. Does anyone remember doing this when we were in High School? I do. It was a great public profession of faith for me. If you have kids in school go pray with them at the flagpole next Wednesday. Ours starts at 7:30 but it says 7:00 on the SYATP website. This is organized by students for students and anyone else that would like to join them.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
The Hermitage and a Visit
What a wild and crazy week we have had! Bobby's brother Joe and Sister in law Roxanna got here last Tuesday for a visit. Joe is the Assistant Sports Information Director at APU so he had a few games to work in Kentucky. They extended their trip and got to see us all at once!
We pretty much just hung out Tuesday. Wednesday we took a trip to the Hermitage. It has been about 5 years since the last time we went...in fact Munchkin was in a Maya Wrap sling the last time we went. Both kids were so good. Munchkin had a headset to listen to the audio tour and she shared it a little bit with Little Man. She was very interested in hearing all about the Hermitage.
Joe and Rox like to go to Historic places so this was an interesting place for them to visit too. If you look close you can see the Hermitage in the background.
Joe helped both of the kids pick a bit of cotton.
Not only did we get to go to the Hermitage we also went to Fort Nashborough and the Hard Rock Cafe.
Picture, if you will, Little Man holding my hand and Joe's hand. He is jumping up and down quite high when he decides to let go of my hand, this causes me to drop him, try to grab him, trip over him and pretty much almost fall on him. In the process Bobby sees me falling and grabs me from behind almost falling over me. All in front of the Hard Rock Cafe in downtown Nashville. The people on the patio got a good laugh. Once I realized Little Man was not hurt I too was laughing!
Friday Joe had to drive up to Kentucky. I dropped Munchkin off at school, Bobby off at work, went and got a tire patched on the Durango, and then met Joe and Rox at the Corvette Museum in Bowling Green. We would have gone up earlier but you have to be at least 7 to go in the Corvette plant. Little Man loved going in the store at the museum though. Rox caught this funny picture of him on the way home.
To top off the week Munchkin had a birthday party on Saturday just before we had to head off to the airport for a wedding in Colorado. Bobby and Joe's cousin Jason got married in Denver. All of the cousins were there. We had a great week with Joe and Rox and hope we will get to visit with them again soon.
We pretty much just hung out Tuesday. Wednesday we took a trip to the Hermitage. It has been about 5 years since the last time we went...in fact Munchkin was in a Maya Wrap sling the last time we went. Both kids were so good. Munchkin had a headset to listen to the audio tour and she shared it a little bit with Little Man. She was very interested in hearing all about the Hermitage.
Joe and Rox like to go to Historic places so this was an interesting place for them to visit too. If you look close you can see the Hermitage in the background.
Joe helped both of the kids pick a bit of cotton.
Not only did we get to go to the Hermitage we also went to Fort Nashborough and the Hard Rock Cafe.Picture, if you will, Little Man holding my hand and Joe's hand. He is jumping up and down quite high when he decides to let go of my hand, this causes me to drop him, try to grab him, trip over him and pretty much almost fall on him. In the process Bobby sees me falling and grabs me from behind almost falling over me. All in front of the Hard Rock Cafe in downtown Nashville. The people on the patio got a good laugh. Once I realized Little Man was not hurt I too was laughing!
Friday Joe had to drive up to Kentucky. I dropped Munchkin off at school, Bobby off at work, went and got a tire patched on the Durango, and then met Joe and Rox at the Corvette Museum in Bowling Green. We would have gone up earlier but you have to be at least 7 to go in the Corvette plant. Little Man loved going in the store at the museum though. Rox caught this funny picture of him on the way home.
To top off the week Munchkin had a birthday party on Saturday just before we had to head off to the airport for a wedding in Colorado. Bobby and Joe's cousin Jason got married in Denver. All of the cousins were there. We had a great week with Joe and Rox and hope we will get to visit with them again soon.
Saturday, September 15, 2007
High School Musical on Ice
On Friday Angela and I took the kids to see High School Musical on Ice (Thank you Angela!). Before the main event though we went to Blackstone for dinner. Yes, I know it is a brewery. But, they have really good food, inexpensive meals for the kids that include homemade applesauce and m&ms, and of course Diet Coke! The kids were a little antsy but I suppose they were just really excited to get to the show.
Both Munchkin and the Ballerina sang along and even danced a little to the music. Angela and I were jamming too. I think it is a requirement for the parents to know every word to both HSM and HSM2 if they have kids between 5-13.
Munchkin LOVED seeing the actors out on the ice singing the songs. She did notice that it wasn't exactly the same as the movies but I explained to fit everything in they have to change it up a little bit, not to mention so they can skate to the music. She was impressed with the twirling and jumps. She did also comment on Troy falling on his hiney during the angry golf course song. oops. :)
We got the girls commemorative water bottles and cotton candy that came with the cool pink hat in the first picture. What a fun night! If you get a chance go see this!
Both Munchkin and the Ballerina sang along and even danced a little to the music. Angela and I were jamming too. I think it is a requirement for the parents to know every word to both HSM and HSM2 if they have kids between 5-13.
Munchkin LOVED seeing the actors out on the ice singing the songs. She did notice that it wasn't exactly the same as the movies but I explained to fit everything in they have to change it up a little bit, not to mention so they can skate to the music. She was impressed with the twirling and jumps. She did also comment on Troy falling on his hiney during the angry golf course song. oops. :)
We got the girls commemorative water bottles and cotton candy that came with the cool pink hat in the first picture. What a fun night! If you get a chance go see this!
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Recent comments
Woo hoo! I got a widget so we can see where the most recent comments have been! Check them out on the right!
MOPS
Yeah for MOPS. It was so fun to see old friends yesterday and meet some new women that are sure to become friends. I took my sister in law Rox with me yesterday. She and Joe (Bobby's brother) have been married almost 3 years. They do not have kids yet but she was a good sport and came with me anyway. It was a little disconcerting for her to be in a room with all mothers and A LOT of pregnant women. I told her that it was in the water.....
Being from California she reveled in the deep southern accents! Since ya'll know I don't have an accent!
This is going to be a really fun year! :)
I just added a separate blog for Longhollow Mops mommas. If you know of anymore moms that blog add their link!
Being from California she reveled in the deep southern accents! Since ya'll know I don't have an accent!
This is going to be a really fun year! :)
I just added a separate blog for Longhollow Mops mommas. If you know of anymore moms that blog add their link!
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Rain Rain
no don't go away yet! Anyone else enjoy that lovely shower we got the other day? Bobby got screamed at in a parking lot by some people in a smashed car. He was backing out of his spot, it was pouring down rain and he didn't see them. Something about the front end of their car was smashed and they had no headlights.
If someone almost backed into you (but you had no headlights and a smashed front end) would you drive around the parking lot and scream at them?
MOPS starts today! I am so excited! The first year of our group I was the Creative Activities Coordinator. Last year I was a table leader. This year I am going to soak it all in. :)
Just thought I would add a random picture. This is one day when Little Man and I went to the park in 100 degree heat.
If someone almost backed into you (but you had no headlights and a smashed front end) would you drive around the parking lot and scream at them?
MOPS starts today! I am so excited! The first year of our group I was the Creative Activities Coordinator. Last year I was a table leader. This year I am going to soak it all in. :)
Just thought I would add a random picture. This is one day when Little Man and I went to the park in 100 degree heat.
Sunday, September 09, 2007
3 weeks + 3 churches= 3 very different experiences
So a few posts ago I was trying to answer the question "Where have we been?". The last three weeks have brought several different experiences for us and the kids. We have tried out 3 different Baptist churches in 3 weeks. We could probably try out a new one each week for the next 3 months and not hit the same one twice.
This is just a quick overview of our experiences.
Church #1:
Distance from our house: 5 minutes
Membership: maybe 150, no other kindergartners, only a few other 3 year olds.
Friendliness of members: really, really friendly. They remembered us from when Munchkin went to VBS there 2 summers ago.
Ease of finding classrooms: It is very small but the person helping us didn't really know where everything was due to the building being brand new.
Sermon: was really good. The sermon was on Hebrews and Heroes of the Faith. The Pastor pointed out several themes throughout the book of Hebrews. He also packed about a 50 minute sermon into about 25 minutes. Lots of information to process but I actually learned something. Also, a man got up and gave his testimony and I cried. I am not sure the last time I cried in a service.
Music: Super traditional. There was a choir at first in choir robes then just the music pastor and a piano player.
Followup: One of the members drove by our house that afternoon and dropped off a welcome packet with a tract in it.
Church #2
Distance from our house: About 7 minutes
Membership: Maybe around 1500. We weren't really sure.
Friendliness of Members: I don't think anybody thought we were visiting so we were kind of bypassed. I did see one of Munchkins friends from school and another girl I know from the area.
Ease of finding classrooms: This was kind of a feat. We parked in the guest parking area but probably should have parked by the kids area...but we didn't know that. Once we got to the kids area everything is computerized so parents check the kids in. The director did not seem very happy to help us figure out what we were doing. Little Mans class was downstairs and he cried when we left him. Munchkins class was upstairs but we didn't know which class to put her in and the first lady didn't seem to want her in her class. We were happy to find Munchkins friend in the other class. That happened to be down the hall from the balcony so that is where we sat.
Sermon: The founder of True Love Waits spoke and was really good. I think they are in the process of looking for a new head pastor because I think the current one in retiring.
Music: Choir with robes, a few worship choruses, an acoustic guitar on one song and a piccolo on one song. Very traditional. They do also have an orchestra and a handbell choir that play on Sunday morning sometimes. As a flute player and former President of the Handbell Choir at APU those aspects made me really happy.
Followup: I don't think there will be any. The door we went in for the service didn't have any bulletins or any way for anyone to know we had been there.
Church #3
Distance from our house: About 13 minutes
Membership: Around 500
Friendliness of members: A couple stopped us after the sermon to chat. They actually live in our neighborhood and are good friends with the couple that lives 2 doors down from us.
Ease of Finding Classrooms: This is not a huge church but there are signs that show the way to go. Once we found the kids area the lady behind the desk was extremely helpful. Little Man did not cry at all. He walked right in. We were very impressed with the kids program (except that they were showing Arther in Little Mans class when we went to pick him up). Kids church has puppets and music (kind of like Little Tree House at Longhollow) and a Bible Story.
Sermon: Was about being certain where you will spend eternity. He did say he does not preach on Hell a whole lot but felt like it was time. He approached it from the personal experience side of things. You know if you have had a personal experience with God and no one can change that.
Music: Contemporary. There were 6 or 7 people singing on the worship team, 2 electric guitars, a piano player and a keyboard player. They had a few sound problems but that didn't make too much of a difference.
Followup: We only filled out the paperwork at the kids center, we didn't fill out the visitor info in the bulletin so we'll see. I think they have a visitation meeting where they call, email or come to your house to followup with you.
We have had 3 very different experiences these last few weeks without them being theologically different. Neither one of us is totally committed to staying at a Baptist church either. We worked with a Brethren youth group, led worship at a Free Methodist church, and we were on the worship team at a non-denominational church. I grew up in Baptist churches though so that is the comfortable for me. We just want to be someplace where we can be involved, where we can serve, where we can learn and grow. So far I think Church number 3 is going to get a followup visit from us. There are a couple of others we want to go to and check out but something just felt right this morning. We'll see.
This is just a quick overview of our experiences.
Church #1:
Distance from our house: 5 minutes
Membership: maybe 150, no other kindergartners, only a few other 3 year olds.
Friendliness of members: really, really friendly. They remembered us from when Munchkin went to VBS there 2 summers ago.
Ease of finding classrooms: It is very small but the person helping us didn't really know where everything was due to the building being brand new.
Sermon: was really good. The sermon was on Hebrews and Heroes of the Faith. The Pastor pointed out several themes throughout the book of Hebrews. He also packed about a 50 minute sermon into about 25 minutes. Lots of information to process but I actually learned something. Also, a man got up and gave his testimony and I cried. I am not sure the last time I cried in a service.
Music: Super traditional. There was a choir at first in choir robes then just the music pastor and a piano player.
Followup: One of the members drove by our house that afternoon and dropped off a welcome packet with a tract in it.
Church #2
Distance from our house: About 7 minutes
Membership: Maybe around 1500. We weren't really sure.
Friendliness of Members: I don't think anybody thought we were visiting so we were kind of bypassed. I did see one of Munchkins friends from school and another girl I know from the area.
Ease of finding classrooms: This was kind of a feat. We parked in the guest parking area but probably should have parked by the kids area...but we didn't know that. Once we got to the kids area everything is computerized so parents check the kids in. The director did not seem very happy to help us figure out what we were doing. Little Mans class was downstairs and he cried when we left him. Munchkins class was upstairs but we didn't know which class to put her in and the first lady didn't seem to want her in her class. We were happy to find Munchkins friend in the other class. That happened to be down the hall from the balcony so that is where we sat.
Sermon: The founder of True Love Waits spoke and was really good. I think they are in the process of looking for a new head pastor because I think the current one in retiring.
Music: Choir with robes, a few worship choruses, an acoustic guitar on one song and a piccolo on one song. Very traditional. They do also have an orchestra and a handbell choir that play on Sunday morning sometimes. As a flute player and former President of the Handbell Choir at APU those aspects made me really happy.
Followup: I don't think there will be any. The door we went in for the service didn't have any bulletins or any way for anyone to know we had been there.
Church #3
Distance from our house: About 13 minutes
Membership: Around 500
Friendliness of members: A couple stopped us after the sermon to chat. They actually live in our neighborhood and are good friends with the couple that lives 2 doors down from us.
Ease of Finding Classrooms: This is not a huge church but there are signs that show the way to go. Once we found the kids area the lady behind the desk was extremely helpful. Little Man did not cry at all. He walked right in. We were very impressed with the kids program (except that they were showing Arther in Little Mans class when we went to pick him up). Kids church has puppets and music (kind of like Little Tree House at Longhollow) and a Bible Story.
Sermon: Was about being certain where you will spend eternity. He did say he does not preach on Hell a whole lot but felt like it was time. He approached it from the personal experience side of things. You know if you have had a personal experience with God and no one can change that.
Music: Contemporary. There were 6 or 7 people singing on the worship team, 2 electric guitars, a piano player and a keyboard player. They had a few sound problems but that didn't make too much of a difference.
Followup: We only filled out the paperwork at the kids center, we didn't fill out the visitor info in the bulletin so we'll see. I think they have a visitation meeting where they call, email or come to your house to followup with you.
We have had 3 very different experiences these last few weeks without them being theologically different. Neither one of us is totally committed to staying at a Baptist church either. We worked with a Brethren youth group, led worship at a Free Methodist church, and we were on the worship team at a non-denominational church. I grew up in Baptist churches though so that is the comfortable for me. We just want to be someplace where we can be involved, where we can serve, where we can learn and grow. So far I think Church number 3 is going to get a followup visit from us. There are a couple of others we want to go to and check out but something just felt right this morning. We'll see.
Friday, September 07, 2007
Magic Touch......or Not
So, we bought the Durango back in June. It has been a pretty good truck so far but has had a few problems. The brakes went out, we needed a new battery (that was rusted into the truck), now it needs a new starter or something along those lines. It seems like every time I drive one of our vehicles something new goes wrong with it. The Honda, which is a year older than the Durango got new brakes, new tires and a new axle a couple of months ago. The air conditioner doesn't work too well which has been really handy for Bobby to drive to work in 110 degree weather.
Today I had to drive about 30 miles to go to a preview class for My-Gym. Angela went with me and then we went to My Friends Place for lunch. I have been in the Honda the last few days due to the slightly cooler weather and the starter issue in the Durango. I noticed a strange noise on my way home from Curves and told Bobby about it. It seemed to get worse on the way down to the class and even worse on my way to lunch. I decided I should call my local Firestone and ask if I could get the car in. The guy told me if it was making a weird noise I should take it to the closest Firestone and see if it was safe to drive.
The guys were great and came right out to check it out. After turning the car on for a moment they turned it off and said I should definitely not drive it the 30 miles back home. Apparently my water pump went out. Yeah hurray.
I called Bobby who came and picked me up as soon as he could and then we headed home to get Munchkin from school.
If it is not one thing it is another...oh yeah did I mention we are waiting on about 2 weeks worth of checks that we were expecting 2 weeks ago. grr...
Today I had to drive about 30 miles to go to a preview class for My-Gym. Angela went with me and then we went to My Friends Place for lunch. I have been in the Honda the last few days due to the slightly cooler weather and the starter issue in the Durango. I noticed a strange noise on my way home from Curves and told Bobby about it. It seemed to get worse on the way down to the class and even worse on my way to lunch. I decided I should call my local Firestone and ask if I could get the car in. The guy told me if it was making a weird noise I should take it to the closest Firestone and see if it was safe to drive.
The guys were great and came right out to check it out. After turning the car on for a moment they turned it off and said I should definitely not drive it the 30 miles back home. Apparently my water pump went out. Yeah hurray.
I called Bobby who came and picked me up as soon as he could and then we headed home to get Munchkin from school.
If it is not one thing it is another...oh yeah did I mention we are waiting on about 2 weeks worth of checks that we were expecting 2 weeks ago. grr...
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
Happy Birthday to.....
ME! :) And I am feeling every one of those years today. We knew it was going to be a busy day with school, Moms in touch, getting pictures developed, helping in the cafeteria at Munchkins school, and meeting Bobby for lunch so we celebrated yesterday.
Bobby and I took the kids on a canoe trip down the Harpeth River, followed by lunch at the Cheesecake factory. It was such a fun way to spend the day. Both Munchkin and Little Man loved being in the boat on the water. It was pretty funny though when Munchkin would yell out "shallow!" Bobby and I were out of the boat dragging it quite a bit because the weather has been so dry.
We saw lots of little turtles, a couple of fish, and even a dead deer floating in the water. That was nice to explain to the kids. We were pretty convinced our canoe would be retired after us. I got a nice picture of Bobby bailing water out of the boat.
Yeah for birthdays and getting to do fun things!
Bobby and I took the kids on a canoe trip down the Harpeth River, followed by lunch at the Cheesecake factory. It was such a fun way to spend the day. Both Munchkin and Little Man loved being in the boat on the water. It was pretty funny though when Munchkin would yell out "shallow!" Bobby and I were out of the boat dragging it quite a bit because the weather has been so dry.
We saw lots of little turtles, a couple of fish, and even a dead deer floating in the water. That was nice to explain to the kids. We were pretty convinced our canoe would be retired after us. I got a nice picture of Bobby bailing water out of the boat.
Yeah for birthdays and getting to do fun things!
Monday, September 03, 2007
Making a splash
The other evening we were invited to kind of an end of the summer pool party (Thank you Laura and Aaron for opening your beautiful home!). We did not realize it wouldn't take us very long to get there so we were the first ones to arrive, warm brownies in hand. Poor Little Man was zonked out when we got there but Munchkin and I were able to take advantage of the pool with Laura and her kiddos for a bit before everyone else arrived.
One of my favorite things about the pool was Munchkins bravery on the diving board. When we went swimming there last year she got to the end of the board and turned around and got off. This time she was all about jumping off the diving board. As you can see below she even added a twist while she jumped! Silly girl.
Little Man finally woke up from his nap and came out to join us. He even jumped off the side to me! Yeah!! My kids like the water! :)
One of my favorite things about the pool was Munchkins bravery on the diving board. When we went swimming there last year she got to the end of the board and turned around and got off. This time she was all about jumping off the diving board. As you can see below she even added a twist while she jumped! Silly girl.
Little Man finally woke up from his nap and came out to join us. He even jumped off the side to me! Yeah!! My kids like the water! :)
Sunday, September 02, 2007
Saturday, September 01, 2007
Finally......
So, when I was growing up until I was about 10 my father smoked in the house, in the car, any place he could. My grandmother also smoked, she was hooked to an oxygen tank for the last years of her life. We had to sit in the smoking section at restaurants because the smokers had to smoke wherever we went. I was "that kid" that came to school oblivious to the fact that I smelled like an ashtray. It was normal to have smoke everywhere and in everything. When I was in 7th grade I stole a pack of my fathers cigarettes, smoked 2 of them and gave them away to someone else who actually thought it was cool to smoke. It didn't take with me and for that I am extremely thankful.
Two of Bobby's grandparents also dies from smoking related illnesses.
I don't remember how old I was when the smoking in public places ban went into effect in California but it was so nice to walk into a restaurant and not have to have smoke blown in my face, or walk through clouds of smoke on the way to our table, or mock how the smoking and non smoking sections were partitioned by nothing.
My mom stopped letting my father smoke in the house after he came back from a military assignment and we had had the joy of clean air in our house for several months.
Bobby and I moved here 6 years ago from our smoke free paradise. The shock of being asked smoking or non basically stopped us in our tracks as we said "What?" I know I may be a liberal fruitcake on this one but I almost jumped for joy when I saw this Workplace Smoking Ban on the government web page....yes I realize I have been living in a cave and this was signed in June but it is not October yet and I am on top of it!
I do not want to offend anyone, I in fact hate confrontation. I have friends that smoke and if you are reading this please know I love you. I respect that you can decide for yourself if you want to smoke or not. It has just felt like Tennessee has been so far behind on this particular issue and we are finally catching up.
So, after October first anyone want to go out to eat with us? :)
Two of Bobby's grandparents also dies from smoking related illnesses.
I don't remember how old I was when the smoking in public places ban went into effect in California but it was so nice to walk into a restaurant and not have to have smoke blown in my face, or walk through clouds of smoke on the way to our table, or mock how the smoking and non smoking sections were partitioned by nothing.
My mom stopped letting my father smoke in the house after he came back from a military assignment and we had had the joy of clean air in our house for several months.
Bobby and I moved here 6 years ago from our smoke free paradise. The shock of being asked smoking or non basically stopped us in our tracks as we said "What?" I know I may be a liberal fruitcake on this one but I almost jumped for joy when I saw this Workplace Smoking Ban on the government web page....yes I realize I have been living in a cave and this was signed in June but it is not October yet and I am on top of it!
I do not want to offend anyone, I in fact hate confrontation. I have friends that smoke and if you are reading this please know I love you. I respect that you can decide for yourself if you want to smoke or not. It has just felt like Tennessee has been so far behind on this particular issue and we are finally catching up.
So, after October first anyone want to go out to eat with us? :)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)