Saturday, August 29, 2009

Back to School

Fair week is over, and I've had a week to recover. The first part of the week, was so hot and sticky, almost unbearable. On Wednesday, Natalie and her friend went to their first concert to see "The Naked Brothers Band." First they rode the rides till it was time for the show. Then Anthony took them back stage to do a meet and greet. Natalie did not want to wash her hands at all!


During the fair, we talked to many people about 4-H and leasing a horse for Natalie etc. I got some vital information and been spending this week of recovery, researching stables and horses for new opportunities for Natalie's horseback riding lessons.
Also this week, we did the dreaded back to school shopping. Michigan schools don't begin until after labor day, so we always have at least 2 weeks after fair to get last minute supplies. I always wait until the last moment to buy shoes. Here's why. I bought Natalie a pair of shoes right before school let out for summer and she wore a size 3. Back to school shoes were size 5. How does one jump 2 sizes in 3 months. She did this last year too. So, hopefully the bigger size will last us at least until winter I hope. No tears this year with shoes. She knew what she wanted and it was a matter of talking me into paying for them! Have to admit they are cute!

Well we are headed into our last week of summer and summer break. 4th grade here we come! I'm praying for no drama already!

Monday, August 17, 2009

My Champion

I am such a proud Mama right now! My girl got Champion and Grand Champion for her photo in our county fair today. She enter 3 items; dish garden, drawing and 8 x 10 color photo. She received "A's" for the dish garden and drawing but got the highest award for her photograph. She is just thrilled and beside herself. It's been a long day and I'm ready for bed, because we have another long day at the fair tomorrow. Way to go, Nat!

Here is the pic....

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Blowing off some steam

“I will deal with them according to their conduct, and by their own standards I will judge them”

I've had a horrible last few days. I'm struggling with what I want to do and what I should do.
My adventure at Michigan Adventure yesterday was both eye opening and exhausting. This was my third outing with mother's of my daughter's "circle of friends." And just like the other 2 outings, these Christian women were extremely rude. If I compared Natalie's "public school" moms vs. her "private school" moms. I would have to say despite the fact that the public school moms were snobby, at least they faked being nice. These "Christian" women don't even care they are rude.

On the way to the beach this afternoon, Natalie told me that this "mom" wouldn't let her use the restroom because it would take time away from her agenda. I think I almost had a stroke. After a relaxing 2 hours at the beach tonight, and watching the gulls fight for food and territory, it occured to me the answer. It's time to step up. I will deal with them when I have to, but I think I will make myself as unavailable to them as I most possibly can be. Books and Mp3 players will be very handy. I'm so pissed.....

Monday, August 10, 2009

Michigan Adventure

We are off to Michigan Adventure tomorrow. This is the last Brownie trip of the season before school starts up. Michigan Adventure is a water/amusement park all in one. The weather is supposed to be a perfect 83 degrees with no rain in the forecast.

Bathing suit. Check
Towels. Check
Lunch packed. Check
Sunscreen. Check

What else is needed? Oh, maybe some ear plugs from girls screaming......Mp3 will do.
Post pics later....if I survive that is.

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

Fair Game

It's getting to be that time again. Yes, school starting is right around the corner, but its not that. Its Fair time again! Natalie is putting 3 items this year in the fair. She drew a picture, a photo collage, and of course the dish garden. We are currently trying to come up with a "theme" for the dish garden. I suggested patriotic, but she wasn't to excited about that.
It seems the summer gets shorter and shorter every year. I can't believe I have a fourth grader. I need to get my butt in gear for some school shopping. We got the supplies bought, but it's time for some shoes, backpack, and some jeans. I've also learned that starting in 4th grade, you begin "band" if you so choose. Natalie has expressed interest in playing the flute. I have a feeling this is going to be an expensive school year.....
Here are some of Natalie's finest art work. Vince Vangogh...?

This one is my favorite


I also learned a good tip for turning art work to digital. You can upload them to snapfish or Kodak, anyplace to make scrapbooks, and you can have their art forever!