Holiday experience

Well, the mini and I went to see Bedtime Stories on Christmas Day, and we give it 2 thumbs up. Very cute, and worth the wait. I like Adam Sandler, he did a good job!

Santa brought Natalie an Ipod for Christmas this year and we had to immediately load music on it as soon as the package was opened. Miley Cyrus, Corbin bleu, some 80's, the Barbie song, and of course, The Jonas Brothers. She also got Guitar Hero for Playstation 2, which she has already gone to 3 levels in 2 days.

I'm glad Christmas is over, and I'm so ready to take down the tree. That's on the agenda this week, since Daddy is home this week sitting with the mini, that's a good project for them to do. All our snow is gone now, so they can't do the normal stuff like sledding etc. Worked out for me!

Tootsies 2

I got some socks for christmas........Nat and I got the same ones, and despite my hesitation, I actually didn't mind them after a while

Merry Christmas

And the Grinch, with his Grinch-feet ice cold in the snow, stood puzzling and puzzling, how could it be so? It came without ribbons. It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags. And he puzzled and puzzled ’till his puzzler was sore. Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before. What if Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store. What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more.
- Dr. Seuss

Twas the night

Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,in hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there.
The children were nestled all snug in their beds,while visions of sugar plums danced in their heads.And Mama in her 'kerchief, and I in my cap,had just settled our brains for a long winter's nap.
When out on the roof there arose such a clatter,I sprang from my bed to see what was the matter.Away to the window I flew like a flash,tore open the shutter, and threw up the sash.
The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snowgave the lustre of midday to objects below,when, what to my wondering eyes should appear,but a miniature sleigh and eight tiny reindeer.
With a little old driver, so lively and quick,I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick.More rapid than eagles, his coursers they came,and he whistled and shouted and called them by name:
"Now Dasher! Now Dancer!Now, Prancer and Vixen!On, Comet! On, Cupid!On, Donner and Blitzen!To the top of the porch!To the top of the wall!Now dash away! Dash away!Dash away all!"
As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly,when they meet with an obstacle, mount to the skyso up to the house-top the coursers they flew,with the sleigh full of toys, and St. Nicholas too.
And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roofthe prancing and pawing of each little hoof.As I drew in my head and was turning around,down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound.
He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot,and his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot.A bundle of toys he had flung on his back,and he looked like a peddler just opening his pack.
His eyes--how they twinkled! His dimples, how merry!His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,and the beard on his chin was as white as the snow.The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth,and the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath.He had a broad face and a little round belly,that shook when he laughed, like a bowl full of jelly.
He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf,and I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself.A wink of his eye and a twist of his headsoon gave me to know I had nothing to dread.
He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,and filled all the stockings, then turned with a jerk.And laying his finger aside of his nose,and giving a nod, up the chimney he rose.
He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle,And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.But I heard him exclaim, 'ere he drove out of sight,
"Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!"

Movie anyone?

Since the hubby is now laid up for Christmas, I think the mini and I will be going to the movies on Christmas. But which one should we see???

• Madagascar 2
• Yes Man
• Tales of the Desparate (lol)
• Bedtime Stories
• Marley & Me

All have really good potential, but which one would be the best one to see on Christmas Day. Hmmm. When I wake up Christmas morning, I shall decide........

Happy Holidays

Make a Smilebox postcard

Tribute to Stewart

Press pause on music below

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Let it go

WARNING: This blog entry is going to be some major venting!

If you read my blog regularly, you will know that Natalie's last day at Stewart Elementary was Friday. This was a difficult decision for us, moving her in the middle of the year, and starting her in a private, religious school.

On Friday, (her last day) everything went fine, Natalie was a bit emotional to be expected. Each of her classmates wrote her a "goodbye" letter. After reading them all, I began to have doubts about this, is this the right move, right now. All of the letters had very kind words to say to Natalie. Until last night.....

Natalie was invited to a Christmas party at our local YMCA. They got to swim, eat pizza, and exchange a little Christmas spirit. While our kids were having fun, I was there with other moms that wanted to stay behind. The hostess mom said to me, I heard Natalie's last day was Friday. I said yes, it's time for a change, lots of issues etc. The next thing she said to me, sealed the deal. She said "I heard there were issues with her at the beginning of the year, but I thought it was getting better now." She heard of issues.. I've met this mom twice, and just in the last 2 weeks. HERE COMES THE VENT

Obviously, if this mom has heard of issues, someones been talking. We are normally very private people, especially when it comes to Natalie. I normally only post the very best things about Natalie and our life on my blog. So how would this mom know about the issues? I realize that moms talk to other moms, but isn't the one thing that we mothers impose on our daughters is how hurtful gossiping can be? How gossiping can really destroy people's lives, if it is done in the worst possible ways. So with mother's gossiping about other kids, how does the kid ever stand a chance? Natalie has had issues with these girls at school, but I'm starting to have my doubts about the moral characters of their mothers. Are they encouraging the behavior by setting such an example? This is why my daughter has self esteem issues!

I hope that the parents of Natalie's new school, being that it is Christan based, are mature enough not to gossip about other children, and accept Natalie for the beautiful girl she is. I have to let this go now........

Whats on my mind

laundry piles
Christmas parties
decorating
Christmas shopping
laundry piles
Christmas shopping
baking
cleaning the house
winter break
swim meets
swim practices
laundry piles
UGH

It's Official

Natalie and I went to visit the Lutheran School where we met the Principal and Teachers. We took a tour of the school and Natalie got to sit in the classroom and see what the difference is with a "private" school. She loved it! She even participated in the class discussion as if she were already a part of the class. I felt so relieved that this happened. There are 8 boys and 7 girls, Natalie will make 8. Natalie has 6 more days of school, and then a new start.

2009 will be the best year yet for Natalie. I wish for you, Natalie a fresh new beginning, with friends that care, and finally some peace in your heart. That would be the best Christmas gift for me!!

Winds of Change

Its been no secret that Natalie has been struggling with school issues. She is far more advanced than her peers, and this is causing conflicts with other girls. It began last year, and is now starting to erupt again now. The option of private schooling is now heavy on my mind.
I know that no matter where she goes to school, there are always girl issues. However, I believe putting her in private setting, where she can be EQUAL with her peers on the intelligence level, and knowing that this environment is less tolerable of the drama, is indeed the best place for her.
I dread pulling her out in the middle of school year, but I have no other choice. I hope this winter break, I can find inner peace for the struggles I have been dealing with in this hopeless decision. I will put my trust in Jesus, for I know he loves Natalie just as much as I do.
Natalie and I will be meeting her new Teacher, classroom and classmates on Thursday. I hope this will bring some peace to her as well. Here we go, turn the page.......

Elf Yourself

It's fun, check ours out at the bottom of my blog. I seen this done last year, but it was already to late to do it. After you upload your pictures, you can choose the dance. Also you have to choice to email it, download and embed it. Happy Holidays!

Girls, Girls, Girls

No I'm not talking about the Motley Crue song. Who'd ever thought that there is drama in 3rd grade. Apparently I missed that chapter in the user manual for raising girls. I'm up to my eyeballs in 3rd grade girl drama and I'd really like to take the next plane to nowhere...alone. Anyone out there have any known cure to man how to rid our house of drama?

Just thought I'd ask......

Without a hitch

Thanksgiving went off without a hitch except.......
I'm on my way to Grandma's house bringing my warm cheesy spinach/artichoke dip and bottle of wine, and I'm just coming into Berrien Springs. I have the radio up to Christmas music, singing along, sure I'm going slightly over the speed limit, but it wasn't like obscene or anything. Anyway, I happen to look over and I spot a MSP car heading the opposite direction, and I'm like oh snap! I tap my break, and check the rear view mirror. I see the trooper turn around. At this point, I know I'm busted, I had no idea how much over the speed limit I was, but knowing it was inevitable, I just pull over, put it park, reach for my drivers license and wait for him. Sure enough, the light goes on, and he parks behind me and starts to walk up. I'm not nervous yet, because I'm quite comfortable around police/ems/fire agencies(thank you Anthony for getting me out of more tickets than I can count on both hands, love ya xo) as most of them in the area either know me, or know my name, you can say I have "immunity." I roll my window down, and he has a huge smile on his face and says "I have to know what your license plate means" I get this alot from people. I have a specialize plate it is LTFD9WF. Trying to sound that out? It's Lincoln Township Fire Department 9 WF=Wife. I explained to the troop, he grinned in acknowledgement, and then, he asks, do you know why I stopped you? Before I could say a word, he said I just wanted you to know you have a tail light out, and you were going slightly fast. Then the nerves set in. My mind was racing, oh I have more explaining to do to Anthony. He took my license and said he'd be right back.

When you are on the road passing by someone stopped by the police, ever think, oh man, they are getting a biscuit!!!! poor sucker. Well, I saw that in people's faces as they drove by and stared at me. What was I going to tell Anthony, here's another ticket to get me out of?

The trooper came back, handed me my license and said he just had to write down that he stopped me and talked to me about my tail light. Have a good day miss, and drive safe.

Was he being nice? Did he have dinner to go to? Was a tail light ticket not worth wasting ink for? I don't know, nor do I care. But I am thankful we have our boys in blue out there, risking their lives everyday just to tell me I have a tail light out. And I squeeked by not having to come home to Anthony and say, look what I got today!

Serenity

God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference.

Living one day at a time; Enjoying one moment at a time; Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace; Taking, as He did, this sinful world as it is, not as I would have it; Trusting that He will make all things right if I surrender to His Will; That I may be reasonably happy in this life and supremely happy with Him Forever in the next. Amen.

I have been struggling with some personal family issues for several months now. Tonight, as I watched Natalie at swim practice and thinking about the impending holidays, I have decided to take a different approach. I was listening to my Mp3 player, and came across a song I hadn't heard in so long. Last winter, when Natalie was having so many issues with girls at school, we totally related to this song. Cause when push comes to shove You taste what you're made of You might bend, till you break Cause its all you can take On your knees you look up Decide you've had enough You get mad you get strong Wipe your hands shake it off Then you Stand, Then you stand. I need to strengthen my backbone, and put an end to the bullying. I do not have the control over what people do or say. I cannot change them, so I must accept it.

Dr. Laura says there are 4 r's to determining if you should forgive or be forgiven. In my case, forgive. Responsibility, Remorse, Repair, & Repetition. Watching her blog, helped me to come to this decision. If you want to watch the Dr. Laura Link, click here.

Therefore, I've made the decision that this holiday, I will have the strength to endure whatever my bully will throw at me! I will learn to Stand. Isn't it strange how stuff happens during the day, to bring you to decisions that you struggle with? Almost as if you see things so much clearer. God has granted me the wisdom to know the difference. Thank you Awesome Father!

Our Fishy

The results are in from the swim meet. Natalie took 2nd place in freestyle relay event, and 6th place in butterfly. She has moved up in the age brackets this year, so she has some work to do for endurance. Instead of just swimming 25 yrds(one time across) she had to swim 50 (across and back). So endurance is what she is working on. Here's a few pics from the big event. The next one in 2 weeks! Go Bees!

Spirit(all over)

Cheering on teammates

If you want to view all her swim heats, click here. Photobucket is a wonderful thing!

Twilight

I went this weekend and saw the movie Twilight. Twice. The movie was very good. It stayed true to the book, which I'm so glad I read first. It seems like I always see the movie first and then think, oh I should read the book. I think the people who played Bella and Edward did a great job. I just read on Stephenie Meyer's website, they are already making the next movie in the series. I'm so glad, but I'm sure we will have to wait a full year to see it! At last a movie to look forward to. We all look forward to the Harry Potter films, and I remember waiting so long to see the next film in the Lord of the Rings Trilogy.
Go Edward and Bella!

Christmas Tree

Does anyone have their tree up yet? I'm not allowed to even think about Christmas decorating until after Thanksgiving. It seems every year Christmas gets here faster and faster and there is just not enough time to get everything done. I'm sitting here at my computer tonight, listening to it snow/hail outside and wonder how I can plan on not having to do everything last minute. I do this every year, I always say I'm not going to do last minute shopper this year, and it never fails, its Christmas Eve and I'm at Meijers getting wrapping paper, cookies, baking supplies and whatever else I procrastinated about for the last 3 weeks. UGH, I want to waive a magic wand and have everything done and wrapped and under the tree.
First things first, I need to get the tree! Our family tradition is that we go to this tree farm near Indiana. We get all bundled up and climb on the trailer pulled by horses with sleigh bells (my favorite sound at Christmas) and go out to the field and start the hunt. In years past, it has always been my job to pick out the tree. I had no experience picking out a tree, so of course I'd find the perfect looking one, Anthony would cut it down and when we got it home, he'd scream "Could you find a tree with a more crooked trunk?" So to solve this problem, it is now Natalie's job to pick the tree, that way there is no comments made about the tree trunk! When the tree is picked out, we ride back to the store, and pick out this years "family" ornament. A cup of cocoa later, we are on our way home to decorate our tree.
Here's my favorite picture of theses moments....

To view all our Christmas tree picking memories click here

Tootsies

Have you seen these toe socks at Walgreens? Natalie loves them, but I think they are uncomfortable. It must be a young feet thing!

Last night was Natalie's Thanksgiving Concert, where she got to play her recorder and sing 2 songs. The program went on without any problems. But each girl had to call each other to see what dress they are wearing. This is 3rd grade, does it matter if its the same dress? I think brown is the new black this year. Natalie's dress was brown and about 3 other girls were brown too. Luckly, noone had the same dress!

It's closer to Turkey and I'm looking for some receipes! gobble gobble

What a relief

All is good in the world again. Anthony called said he finally killed something. Kill the whitetail, that's all they think about. Venison Chili anyone?

He can dream....

Falling for Leaves

It's that time of year again, and our oak tree finally decided to let go of its leaves. So I spent the after noon raking up the leaves. I am thankful that we don't have to bag them up, we just rake them to the curb and a guy comes by and sucks them up into his truck. Its weird to see a huge vacuum tube connected to a truck. Of course Natalie finds in fascinating.

"Take time every day to do something ridiculous."
Author: Philipa Walker
Next week Anthony leaves for deer camp. Stayed tuned to my version of Deer Camp Rules.

Ready, Set, Go

I'm so proud, Natalie moved up from beginners to intermediate in Swim Team. She is improving more and more each day. She really needs to work on the endurance part, but that will come more with practice...Natalie's first meet is November 22, let's get to work.

Natalie got a really cute jacket and snow pants today from her Grandma. I'm hoping the snow pants can be worn at a much later date....I don't even want to think about snow yet. The jacket is white/Lime Green with pink piping around it. Very cute, and of course, she looks so cute in it. Why can't they make cute stuff for adults?
We bought Natalie her very own saddle to ride her horse. Needless to say Natalie had a great bday. Now as the day is done, I'm totally done. Although the only thing I have to look forward to now is the holidays. UGH, I'm really not ready for that!

Happy Birthday Natalie

Dear Natalie,
I looked at you today and saw the same beautiful eyes that looked at me with love when you were a baby. I looked at you today and saw the same beautiful mouth that made me cry when you first smiled at me. It was not long ago that I held you in my arms long after you fell asleep and I just kept rocking you all night...
I looked at you today and saw my beautiful daughter no longer a baby but a beautiful person with a full range of emotions and feelings and ideas and goals. Every day is exciting as I continue to watch you grow. And I want you to always know that in good and bad times I will love you no matter what you do, or how you think, or what you say. You can depend on my support, guidance, friendship and love every minute of every day. I love being your mom.
Happy 9th Birthday Natalie, we love you.
P.S. Swim hard tonight!
Mommy


To view Natalie's year in review click here

Too much 80's?

Press pause on the music playlist below, before you play video

High School

Natalie is going to see High School Musical 3 again today. She is totally into Corbin Bleu since she got to meet him this last summer at the fair. I took Natalie and her friend last week to see it, and the theater was fill with screaming girls. Today, she's is going with a friend, and hopefully the theater will not be in the same shape as it was for me!

My baby girl turns 9 tomorrow. Where does the time go? I can't believe I have a 9 year old. For some reason, this birthday to me is bittersweet. Is it because she 1 year closer to double digits? Is it because she is growing at such a fast rate, that I can't keep up? Or, do I long to have my cuddle bunny back, as she is constantly pulling away, I just want to hold on.......I'll make it through, I'm sure I will.


My daughter how you're growing
and changing every day;
Some day you'll be too busy
to dance, and sing, and play.
It seems like only yesterday
I rocked you in my arms;
and though a tiny baby
I was captured by your charms.
Then in the blinking of an eye
a toddler walked to me,
Those days too are gone now
but oh, how can that be.
Now when I look at you
a little girl I see,
with grown up dreams and wishes
playing make-believe.
Too soon you will be all grown up,
but my pride will never end.
For I'll always be your Mother and I hope your dearest friend

Trick or Treat

We made it, Natalie didn't get sick this year so we actually got to go trick or treating! This year we did something different. We did Trunk or Treat. In our high school parking lot, we went from trunk to trunk getting candy. I felt this was the safest way to go this year because of all the scares with candy sabotages. It was fun, but the line was looooong. At least we had good weather this year.

Just like a ghost, you've been a-hauntin' my dreams, so I'll propose on Halloween. Love is kinda crazy with a spooky little girl like you. -Classics IV

What's on my mind

Here's what is on my mind.....
Swimming...
Diving....
Swimming....
Szanghi....
Swimming....
Spelling Words...
State Capitals.....
Measuring inches....
Swimming..
Diving...
Swimming...
Szanghi....
Swimming....
UGH

Pumpkin Fun

Tonight Natalie and I did what we traditionally do, while Daddy is off in the woods, looking for Bambi. We went to Dinges Farms and had a ball at Fall Harvest. I take Natalie every year, and take her picture at the same attractions each time. It's so neat to see how much she's grown in one year, and to see her facial features mature. In a way it's sad too. I feel like this is my last year doing it. She is no longer interested in the train rides, the hay rides, all she wanted to do is go through the corn maze. My pumpkin is growing up, and I have no more excuses to ride the train, or watch her go through the kiddie maze. I had some bittersweet moments today.

She is growing up to be such a lovely girl, but I also miss the days where she would fit on my lap and laugh while we rode the train........ Here are a few of my favorite moments this year

My sweet pumpkin

How tall am I this year?

I'll be 9 in 2 weeks!

Happy Harvest everyone!

Szanghi

Natalie had her horse lesson today and she got to ride Shanghi. We are considering leasing him for her and we wanted her to have a few lessons on him before we jump into the lease. He was really good with her today, although he certainly is not our Gholli.
Shanghi has a bad habit of throwing his shoulder and turning his head when Natalie tried to turn him. He learned pretty quick, that Natalie was a young rider, and he tried his best to get away with it everytime. He would also slow almost to a stop when she would cross the entrance to the barn. I think they are going to be a really good match. I've come to the conclusion, that he's not going to give it to her, unless she knows how to ask for it. One thing I know for sure, Natalie loves a challenge, and I think that this horse will certainly challenge her!

On another note, in an earlier post, I mentioned how I started to read the twilight saga series. Well, after the horse lesson, we ran to Target so I could buy the last book in the series "Breaking Dawn" I just have to know what happens to Bella and Edward. I don't think I've ever read books this fast before. This last book has 800 pages........here I go

Miles of Smiles

This afternoon, I was reading Ramsey's Ramblings and I thought she had a clever idea. She started a new blog of just pictures, one for every day. So, of course, I have to copy. So tonight, I made the decision to do the same. We'll see how long mine lasts!!!
Check out the new blog, here.

I also found a new blog, that is hysterical, if you need a good laugh everyday, read this one.

Up to no good

It's been a few days since I last blogged. It just seems life is getting so busy lately. I have read now 3 of the twilight saga books. I'm dying to get to the store to get the last book. I just have to know what happens to Bella!



Natalie has been very excited about the new toy that has been parked in our yard ever since daddy came home from his hunting adventure. Faster, daddy faster!

It's a borrowed toy, but Natalie wants it to stay permanently! Is it possible to be a girly girl outdoors adventurer? How would you describe that?

Next week, we start Swim Team again, and we all are excited. Can't wait to cheer you on, baby girl! Every time, you step onto that starting block, my heart pounds with excitement, fear, and pride. I can't wait!

Lady Lancer

 

Watch Natalie cheerlead, click on Nat's link/cheerleading.

Lancer's Rock the House!

A new Saga

What have I been doing? Well, I picked up this book called "Twilight" and haven't been able to put it down. I read the whole book in 3 days. I have not done that with a book in years. I have already ordered the next book in the series and I am chomping at the bit to get it. I want to run out to the mail box every day to see if its here yet. I can't wait to see what happens to Bella and Edward............

If you like love stories, with a "bite" run and go get this book!!!!!

Bumming around

Well it's already Sunday afternoon, I'm trying to get some long over due chores done. It seems the laundry is never done. We are a family of only 3, I don't know how a larger family ever keeps up!

Lancer's won this weekend, we took Natalie to the football game on Friday night. She was totally into the cheerleaders, studying and watching their every move. She even did a hurkey with them. She couldn't help herself!

Saturday was her turn to cheer. It was a 12:30 game, and of course its 85 degrees, full sun. So she was miserable the whole time, and it totally shows on her face!!!

It's back to school tomorrow, and I'm relieved. Its been a long weekend and I'm ready to get back in the routine. Although, our weeks are busy with after school activities, I want to be back in the swing of it.

A friend loaned me her book on CD called "The Secret" I've been wanting to read it, but the book is always checked out at the library. So I will be listening it at work this week, and hopefully it is everything I hope it to be. Will post later on the outcome.......Back to chores

Go, Fight, Win!

GO

FIGHT

WIN

We are now officially a cheerleader. All day long I hear cheers and seeing 'hurkeys" Practice makes perfect! We love our Lancers, GO RED!

3rd Grade

Backpacked stuffed with brand new crayons, markers, and various school supplies,$45. New school outfit (Old Navy) $35. Lunch packed with ham/cheese sandwich and a capri sun, $2. Mom taking my picture every year in front of that tree for the first day of school, priceless.

I'm ready, I'm off!

Doesn't my baby look all grown up!

Getting Old

Here is a conversation I had with Natalie this weekend!

Me: Well, its the end of summer now, and we will be celebrating your birthday next. Gosh, you are going to be 9 years old. You are getting old, Natalie.
Nat: Mom, 9 isn't old; you're not old until you're like 35 or whatever.....
Me: Thanks, for clearing that up Nat!

Yes, I hope you all are laughing right now!

Labor Day

We made it back from camping this weekend. We decided to camp this weeked as a last wha-hoo before school starts. Natalie has been begging all summer to go camping, so as a last treat before school, we gave in and went to Twin Oaks Campground in Wellston, MI. That's about 3 hours Northern Michigan, near Manistee.

Of course we did our usual visit to Na-Tah-Ka for dinner on Saturday night, and Sunday we went into Manistee and got to see "their" beach. I think I appreciate their beach better than ours and that may be because I see ours all the time. It pretty much looks the same as ours, just a bit northerner?

I took quite a bit of pictures, mostly scenery pictures because Natalie made a friend at the campground, and she was gone all the time. I'm glad she had a great time. On the way home from Na-Tah-Ka, we went deer hunting and Anthony finally caught up with the albino deer that rumored lived in some parts. After 3 years of hearing about the rumor, we finally caught them on video. A mama deer, with 2 fawns, one was albino like her, one brown. That was neat to see.

The only bad thing about the weekend, was a moment in the restrooms at the campsite. Ok, I have to get on a high horse for a moment, and speak my mind. This campground is near the pine river, which lots and lots of people love to canoe down. So towards the back of the campground were the tenters/canoers. I believe they put them in back of the campground for reason, it gets loud and party hardy. All weekend, I told myself that these are young, consenting adults, with no responsibilities, who cares if they want to drink and be promiscuous, so be it. UNTIL, a conversation I heard in the women's restroom. Here I am, after my shower, putting on my Kmart clothes, listening to 2 lady's talking while putting on their Clinque makeup. The conversation was basically how they needed to get back home to their KIDS, and spend some time with them before school starts. Here comes my self-righteousness......So parents dump their kids off at the grandparents house for the weekend, in order to spend a weekend getting drunk, possibly some sort of disease, and to canoe? I think this is wrong in so many ways. Such an example these "parents" are giving. Enough on that........off the horse now.......

We have some great scenic pictures, if you like to view them click here
Need to pack lunch for school tomorrow....Yeah!

School Time/Bed Time

Why is it so difficult to make the transition back to school? No more staying up late, and sleeping in. I have been struggling all week with trying to enforce an earlier bed time in order to get back into the routine of early to bed, early to rise again.
It's still light outside, or I'm not tired yet. Can I just have 5 more minutes outside? I'm sure I'm not the only parent who has heard these lines.
My goal is to have this complete transition by next weekend. I could use as many prayers as I can get.

I have decided that this school year, I'm going to be a little more involved with school volunteering and projects. So I have volunteered myself for quite a bit this year, and I'm not sure how I'm going to work this all in. I signed up for the walking program (count the laps around the track that kids do), Thanksgiving feast, accelerated reader program, star cafe, book fair. As you can see, I'm doing my fair share. Ugh, let's hope I don't go loony by winter break!

Natalie is going to continue swim team, diving, and of course, horse riding. Let's fit that all in the mix too. So how many days till next summer?

I'm going to take some advice from a song I love by Trace Adkins:
You're gonna miss this
You're gonna want this back
You're gonna wish these days hadn't gone by so fast
These are some good times
So take a good look around
You may not know it now
But you're gonna miss this

Swimming Benefits

As you all probably figured out by now, Natalie is on the swim team. Having such a difficult school year, I struggled to find her something that she could do, stay healthy, and keep her focused. I needed something that she could say that she did other than "I'm a second grader." Of course, we've tried the normal things, gymnastics, soccer, softball etc. But these sports were good one day, and the next day, who cares attitude. Until swimming......
She's in the pool every day. Of course there has been disadvantages as well, mainly her hair damage, but all in all, who could ask for a better solution for all her issues she was dealing with in her life. So I thought I would do some research as to what swimming really does for your body/mind, this is what I found.

• Promotes physical development


• Develops aerobic endurance and is the most beneficial form of cardiovascular exercise


• Enhances flexibility and promotes muscular development and posture


• Develops superior coordination


• Learn life skills like: Time management, self discipline, sportsmanship


• Teaches how to set and achieve goals


• Swimmers do better in school vs. non-swimmers

You can view Natalie's swimming accomplishments by clicking on her "swim team link"

Our Summer so far

Well, I have to say the summer has been all about Natalie. After the very bad school year we had, this summer certainly has made up for it. To sum it up, she has practiced so hard in her swimming, that it paid off by placing 3rd in freestyle event and 10th over all (out of 35) in the backstroke event.

Then of course we have the diving. She placed 2nd place. This of course wasn't an official meet, but the coach wanted them to see what an event would look like etc.

Next, we have her and Gholli. Those two are finally getting to know each other and the trust and bond grows stronger each lesson. I'm so thankful she has Gholli to come to when she's having a rough day.

Now, this week at the fair, she received the grand champion ribbon for her dish garden entry. AND tonight, she got to meet Corbin Bleau. Of all nights, I forgot my camera, so I had to borrow one. So that picture is coming. I think that pretty much topped off her summer!

I don't remember having summers quite like this. She's a lucky girl.

I'm Back!

My computer part has finally arrived, and I again have Internet access! It's been a rough couple of weeks, but I have endured the pain!

Yesterday was the first day of the county fair, and Natalie made a dish garden to enter for judging. She was so excited, the got the Champion ribbon this year for her efforts, way to go Nat!

We usually spend the whole week at the fair every year, because Anthony works the fair all week long. So if we want to see him, we have to go there to see him. It's very long days for him.
Today is Natalie's diving meet, so the day at the fair will be a bit broken up. I'm secretly happy about that. I'm usually all faired out by Monday afternoon at 3pm!

I'd rather be school shopping!

Disconnected

I feel so disconnected. I have not had Internet at home in over a week. Anthony's laptop works, but my computer has "special" needs and cannot connect to the Internet until we get an adapter. So here I sit, at my local library, checking my email and blogging. Natalie is going through withdrawls because she can't feed her pets on Webkinz world. It's amazing how much we depend on our computers and what we miss about the Internet.

I'm so used to just sitting down, typing google, and getting the information I need. Now, when I want to know something I write it down on a piece of paper and go to the library to "google." And what's really bad is no shopping! UGH

Gosh, just put me out of my misery!!!

One Summer afternoon

Since daddy had to leave for work early this afternoon, Natalie and I took a different approach to the afternoon. We decided to go get a bite to eat and then went to feed the ducks in St. Joe.

Here are the bachelor's

The next thing we did was look at the sculptures along the river. Some of them are a little strange, but if you are artsy, you might like them.

Did you loose your muffler?

Natalie thinks this looks like a toothbrush, I think it looks like a pelican, what do you think?

Natalie and I love to go to St. Joe, so much to do, and she has already asked me to take her to the Venetian Festival this weekend to see Mitchel Musso. I'll have to see about that, fighting crowds and heat is not my version of a good time.

Natalie asked can we go to the beach tonight? Ok, let's go, just for a 1/2 hour. I love taking her to the beach, but I cannot relax when I am there. I fear Lake Michigan. About 4 years ago on the 4th of July, Anthony was working and there were 6 lives taken within 2 hours because of the rip. I have respect for the lake. Let's go!

While Natalie went swimming, I paced the shore watching. I thought I would look for rock glass along the shore. I found quite a few pieces and Natalie was thrilled! She asked me if I was wearing my contacts tonight!


Did you know that you could hide in the dune grass, totally camouflage yourself? Tell me what you see?

Funny story about dune grass. Once upon a time, not too long ago, there was a 20 year old girl visiting our side of the lake, from her side of the lake(Chicago). Anyway, she had too much to drink one night, and passed out in the dune grass. At 2:30 in the morning, a sleepy fireman I know, was abruptly awakened to the sound of the pager going off, needing his help to find a missing girl. Her cell phone was found by the water, her friends were frantic with worry, listening to the sounds of the helicopter searching the waters, the state police with the dogs, and the fireman with flashlights. Anyway, enough drama, she passed out in the dune grass, woke up, wandered up to a fireman and asked, what's going on man? 15 fireman, 3 state policeman, and the coast guard made it quite clear to her what was going on. tee hee

It was a good summer evening, I hope to have more of these this summer

Birthday Blues are done

Well the birthday party was a smash, and I ended up getting him a Nerf gun that shoots big nerf type balls. I think I made a good choice, because after I thought about it, I realized he is more of a outdoors sports type kid. Not too many action figures for this little guy.


Speaking of Little Dudes, we have a new member to our family. His name is little dude, and he belongs to the amphibian family, please welcome "Little Dude"


Little Dude is a tree frog, that got swept into Grandma's House, so Natalie had to rescue him. I guess they eat crickets?? Will keep you posted on Little Dudes life. We may be setting him free soon. I don't know if I want to feed something live crickets everyday, pardon me but I'm more of a city girl......

Birthday blues

No, it's not my birthday yet, trust me I can wait for that! My nephew is turning 6 on Saturday and we are invited to his party. The problem I am having is what in the world do boys play with these days. I struggle with this every year, I have 3 nephews and what do boys like to do? I can handle the girl party's easily, hands down, blind folded and one hand tied behind my back.

I spend so much time in Target trying to find a "toy" that will be in the latest craze. I ask my friends that have boys, and they are like oh, get him transformers, magnetix, this or that, and I probably looking at them like they are talking Greek to me. I think one year, in Target I found a boy in the toy section about the age I was looking for and had him pick out something. His Mom was very understanding that I wasn't some freak trying to hurt him. lol

Is Nerf stuff still a hit with boys, do they like that stuff? I worry about buying transformers or action figures because I don't know what he already has. I thought about giving a gift card, but is that really fun to open on your birthday at 6 years old?

Since I won't have Internet this weekend, I'll be in Target in the boy section of the toy isle, searching for an idea, longing for some boy to come in and help me. Pathetic, I know....

Need to Connect

I finally talked Anthony into letting our "landline" go and just keep our cell phones. It will save us about $100 a month. After months of negotiating he finally tired and said alright(he has issues with 911, why in the world he would worry about that is beyond me lol). So I proudly called AT&T this morning to disconnect and order and all that stuff. OH NO!

Good news is, we can have the high speed internet without a "phone line" but, they have to send a tech out and wire the box thing outside and the soonest available is next week. So I will be without internet until next week. So, I will have to go somewhere else to do my blogging and checking in on my peeps. I guess it will worth it all when the bill comes and its only $39 instead of a $139.
Countdown starts today, hope I make it!

My Space

I have had several people tell me that they have "my spaces." I am trying to figure out what the crazyness is about having a my space account. I went to the website, and in order to look around at any people, you have to become a member.

So my question is, do you sign up for a my space to "spy" on all your "friends", and the friends I mean are your co-workers, your neighbors, your classmates, etc., or do you sign up to do the social networking. I have to admit, I do belong to a few of the "social network" websites, but in the past, I chose the more family friendly sites.

So yes, I joined my space in order to "spy" on my friends! I'm not quite sure how much time I will put into developing "my space." I'm still skeptical about it. Anyone have advice on this subject?

Oh Golly

Natalie had her next lesson on Friday, and had so much fun riding and learning with her new friend Golly. Natalie actually rode her all by herself, the trainer unsnapped the lead rope from Golly and said you can ride her anywhere you want(in the arena).

Horses lend us the wings we lack. ~Author Unknown

We love you Gol!

Our 4th

Well the weekend is almost over. It's been a long, but fun one. We watched fireworks in Baroda on Thursday, I think that was one of the best shows in a long time. Then on Friday, we went to a cookout at Grandma's house. Natalie got to see her cousins and play for a while, which is always a plus for an only child. We cooked hot dogs/hamburgers and ate the famous chocolate cupcakes. Unfortunately, this year there was no 4th of July parade. Later that evening, we sat in Uncle Patrick's driveway and watched the St. Joseph fireworks, which are always awesome.

Yesturday, Nat & I went to see Wall-E, because Daddy got called into work. No sober medics could be found, so duty called for daddy. Wall-E was really cute, we enjoyed watching it. Then we went to other Grandma's house for more burgers/hot dogs and again played outside with the cousins. Water balloons were a big hit there.

It's been a long weekend, but I'm sort of glad to be back to work tomorrow(not). Although, it will be nice to get back into the schedule again!

Me & My Girl Evidence of Chocolate Cupcakes!

Beach Fun to end the weekend

What a weekend! Wish every weekend could be like this one!

My Hair

Early this year, I decided to cut my hair into the famous bob that everyone is wearing. I've likedthis style so much, that every time I go back for a "trim" it's more like a little more shorter. So recently at Natalie's swim meet, I saw a lady with more of the "posh" bob look. I really like the way she styled it and it looked really good on her. So, I called and made an appointment for my usual 6 week "trim". Here's my before look:

Here's my trim:

of, course no fresh makeup, so you will have to bear with it. I think it turned out fantastic!