Blogoversary Q & A

Yesterday was the two year anniversary for my blog, or in blog-world terms, blogoversary. I was out of time to think of a great way to celebrate, like I did last year, so instead I opened the floor for questions. A few passers by were entertained with the notion and gave it whirl. Here are some questions about myself that inquiring minds want to know;

Mary asks...

1. How did you meet your husband? Ryan and I met at church. I was just about to graduate high school, and the college group at church was going to be doing a choir tour of Cross and the Switchblade (Christian musical about the real-life story of David Wilkerson who was an evangelist to the street kids and gangs in New York back in the late 50's early 60's). So I went to the auditions at church and it was the first time I had any interaction with the college group. I saw Ryan, whom I had never met, and thought 'hmmm, I'm going to like the college group!'. Pretty shallow, I know, but what can I say, he's cute! During the course of the musical and tour we met and became friends. Later that Fall, Ryan started a home group bible study, which I joined. Then he helped me get a job at Carl's Jr., where he worked as shift manager. After working and spending more time together, we started dating. The rest, as we say, is history!

2. What is your favorite meal to make? If I have to cook, then one of favs is a recipe for Southwestern White Chili. Typically it's a cool weather meal so I haven't made it in a while. I do look forward to pulling it out and making it very soon! But the meal is not complete with out some Incredible Cornbread to go with it (super-good and super-easy!)!!!

3. Do you like fish tacos? I do now! I have typically been a picky eater, something leftover from childhood, I suppose. But now that I'm a full fledged grown-up, I've started to act like one and have tried many new things, like fish tacos, and found that, hey!, I like them and....I will eat them in a house, I will eat them with a mouse, I will eat them here or there, I will eat them anywhere!

4. How tall are you? I am a taller than your average female (I think) and stand at a full 5'7", which is just an inch or two shorter than Ryan so I can not wear any shoes with much of a heel.

5. Do you still love Knightrider? Mary....how dare you! Ok, it's out now (thanks to Mary and her superb memory) when I was a little girl I had a crush on Knightrider. Please notice the past tense of that sentence. Now that I am older, and hopefully more mature, I have outgrown my childish delights and am now Knightrider-free. Let it also be known that I have no desire whatsoever to watch the new show that is coming out this Fall. I have no idea why they would do such a thing anyway, weren't we afflicted enough with that show 20 years ago??

Cat wants to know...

6. What has been your favorite post so far & why? Oh gee, I don't know! That's a really good question. I've done many posts that I like, some funny, some thought provoking and even a few that are heartwarming. But as I think over them all this one sticks out to me the most. Back in February I had written about my desire for new friendships here and my need to step out and work on it. I had a great analogy about the flowers that were in my yard that I didn't know where there and that it was like having friends out there that I hadn't yet discovered. Maybe this post sticks out to me because I can see how the Lord has honored my stepping out and has blessed me with a few great friends since then. I truly am blessed and am so excited to enjoy friendship with these fablous ladies! God is good!

Michelle is begging the question...

7. What is your favorite color? RED

8. What outfit makes you so happy when you wear it? currently I like to sport my jean capris with a short sleeved white shirt (I have two white shirts, one is button down and the other is a pull over with a baby doll look and has little billowed sleeves) and I like to complete my ensamble with a silver necklace that has little red beads that dangle down. This outfit makes me happy!

8. Do you have any awesome dance moves? Um, none that the outside world will ever see.

9. What is your favorite artistic pursuit? up until now it has been making cards and using my stamping supplies to make 'em purdy, but lately I've been thinking of crossing over to beads and necklaces.

Lolly is itching to know....

10. What was your favorite movie from the 80's? Ah man why I can't think of anything??! Well, I've always enjoyed Popeye, but there's also The Little Mermaid. I was a freshman in high school when it came out and I saw it as many times as I could when it was released on video. But we taped Popeye off the tv when it was on, so I could watch it anytime I wanted. I don't know, I guess it's a toss up!

11. What dessert could you (almost) eat endlessly? Pie. Apple pie, my mother's pumpkin pie, cherry pie, oh and let's not forget lemon meringue!

Then Bethany is anxious to find out...

12. If you had a boat what would you name it? Floating Flower, of course!

13. If money was no object, what silly thing would you buy first? a fun pair of red shoes

14. From which store would you want a 10 minute shopping spree? Um, Target, hello?!

Thank you to those who were brave enough to ask a few little questions, and to those who just stopped by to congratulate me on my blogoversary! That was fun.....but now I'm totally out of post options. Hmph!

Happy Blogoversary to Me!

Today is the day. Two years ago this very day I began to grace the world wide web with my thoughts and daily happenings. I know you all are so grateful I did. I just know it. *big grin* It's been quite a ride, that's for sure. This blogging thing is so much bigger than I thought it was. Actually, when I started I didn't completely understand what a blog was. But two years later here I still am! And it's been fun!

I wasn't sure what I'd do for my blogoversary. Last year I did a picture tour of my life. This year, well, I didn't have any real thoughts or plans and now that it's here it's a little too late for fun things like a picture tour of anything (or even a list of 100 things about me). Too much is going on in life at the moment to give much thought to planning a nifty blogoversary event anyway. But I have seen a few people open their blog to their friends to ask them questions. Hmmmm.....I can do that! What do you think? Is there anything you'd like to ask me (with in reason and modesty?) If so, have at it! Leave me a question or two (or 10) and I'll do a post tomorrow answering them. How's that?!

Happy Blogoversary to me (and to you, my ever-faithful readers!)!!!

Back in My Groove!

Ahhhhh.....it feels so good to be back into a routine. Today was the start of the ladies bible study at my church, and I am feeling sooo good right now! I sat down at a table with other ladies I was with last year and I am looking forward to sharing the study of Moses with them for another year.

This year is a bit different, however. This time I do not have little ones to put in the childcare. This year, Mae and Caleb are in school and Isabel is in preschool. It's a first for me, not having to haul the kids in and out and rush to bible study in time. I do have to leave soon after the study ends each Tuesday in order to pick up Isabel from preschool, but I gladly welcome this change in my bible study routine.

I felt so blessed to be there this morning. And as I left I couldn't help but smile at the goodness of it all. So it is with a heart full of thankfullness and joy that I begin yet another study of God's Word with new and old friends.

God is good, all the time. All the time, God is good!

Another First

It was a week of firsts in our house this week. Isabel started her educational career. Well, if you consider preschool a part of that, that is (and I do!).

Isabel was so excited to go to school. The last two years she has been with me as we took Caleb to preschool and picked him up. It was a frequent struggle to get her out of the classroom after dropping Caleb off, but now it's her turn! She gets to stay and play, and learn, and sing songs, and go to the playground! Although, I must admit that I think she was more excited about having her own bucket than actually going to school.

Here are a few pics of my baby going off to school for the very first time.

standing outside the front door for the obligatory 'first day of school' pic

in the truck, on our way!

she got to put her little name on the door (it's how they do attendance, I think) but isn't it cute?!

Isabel and her school friends! (oh, and their cute buckets!)

Isn't Isabel cute with her little pig tails and big ol' bucket? *sigh* It makes me kinda sad....my baby is off to school!!! Although, I'm not sad enough to have another! In fact, having Isabel in school twice a week for a couple hours gives me a little free time. And this is term that I'm not too familar with. FREE TIME???

Oh yes, FREE TIME!!! My first morning 'off' I got together with another mom and we went to Starbucks and got a yummy (something that we didn't have to share with anyone or here whining while taking our sipping). Then we strolled through Target. Again, not something a stay at home mom is able to do too often. So, did I enjoy my FREE TIME....oh yes! I have a feeling that I'll enjoy this school year quite a bit!

Ewe!

I don't know why, but we have a nasty amount of flies in our house! As of Saturday there are many new tenants up,about, and around the house. I know I have a couple small holes in some of the window screens, but seriously the holes shouldn't be allowing in this many flies! That brings me to my next train of thought....did something hatch in the house to give way to so many?? (this is a totally gross thought and I don't really want to go in that direction, so I choose to blame the holes it the screens).

A friend and I were talking about this subject the other day and I come to find that my house is not the only one plagued with these flying nasties. She suggested that it may have something to do with the time of year, due to the fact that she remembered the same problem this time last year. Whatever the reason, enough is enough and I'm so over it!

I am now armed with my swatter and bug spray. Let the carnage commence.....operation Fly Bye is underway!

School Days

The kids have been in school for three weeks now and I feel that we are in full swing of the school year. The kids are thinking about which after school program they want to do, and I anticipate information to come home any day about school pictures. The only thing lacking is the crispness of Fall air.

This week is going to be a full one, I can tell already. Isabel will start preschool and I will begin helping in Mae's class. Which, by the way, I have a question........I'm not sure how to address my kids teachers. Do I call them by their 'teacher' name, Mrs. SoandSo or by their first name? Any suggestions or advice? I suppose for now I'll stick to the teacher name, but it makes me feel like I'm the one that's in school. I don't know!!!

I also have another question. The other day Caleb came home with a note to all the parents and it stated that there is a student (at least one) in the class that has a peanut allergy and that when bringing treats (birthday cupcakes etc) to class to not bring anything with peanuts. Also, it suggested to not even bring pbj's in their lunches. Now, I totally want to respect the allergy that other kids may have and in no way do I want to be the cause of an allergic episode, but I am at a loss as to what to pack for lunches as pbj's are such a staple. My kids don't care for lunch meat so I'm low on ideas for a replacement for the good ol' pbj. Any suggestions??

Well, as I mentioned, this is going to be a busy week and I still need to get a bucket for Isabel to bring to school (they use buckets instead of backpacks or bags). So I'm off to get my girl a bucket as I rack my brain for a cute way to decorate it.

Hope you, too, have a good week!

Helping

The other day, when I picked the kids up from school, I knew Mae had a good day. As she walked up to me she had a huge grin on her face. Then when we got in the truck she happily gave me a small sheet of paper. On that paper was a schedule of volunteering moms to help in the class for the year. My name was on it (as it should be, considering I signed myself up!). I am scheduled to help on Thursdays while Isabel is in preschool. Mae is so very excited! And I must admit that I am excited too! This is the first year that I am able to help in the kids class rooms and I'm looking forward to it. Maybe I'll even go on a field trip or two.

Carpet

Since being married, I have lived in 4 rentals. They have ranged from a teeny apartment to a full size house. In all places I have refused to invest anything into them, meaning I will not buy or replace fixtures or install anything that is permanent. I just won't do it, it's not my place so it doesn't make sense for me to put any money into it if I can't take it with me. However, in our current residence I have sort of broken, or bent, that rule.

The house we are renting is about twenty years old and the carpet isn't any younger. I can only imagine the numbers of families that have lived here and tracked who knows what all over the floors. Then there is our landlord who seems to keep a tight reign on his cash flow and will spend as little as possible whenever he can get away with it, so it's no surprise that the carpet is original to the house. And after two years of living here I couldn't take the nastiness of the carpet any longer so past weekend we rented one of those carpet cleaning machines from the grocery store and went to work on the heavy traffic areas in the house (when I say 'we' I really mean Ryan - and he did a great job!).

Overall, the carpet looks better and I am very pleased with how the carpet now looks. I don't mind one bit that we bent our rental rule, not one bitty bit. Now my only hope is that we won't be here when the carpet needs its next round of cleaning.....that bill belongs to the landlord.

Summer Movie Review

I say 'summer' because I didn't do a July review last month (did you notice?). It's been a busy summer, and between visitors, vacations and the Olympics we just haven't had time to watch any movies. We did watch one movie last month. Just one. That's it. August was not much different with three. So, here is what we saw this 'summer'.

1. Mr. & Mrs. Smith - I enjoyed this movie, although I couldn't get out of my mind that this movie was when Bragelina first worked together.....and we all know how that ended! But anyway, it was a fun movie that, in a fun way, made light of marriage and the little things that irritate each other and how it can be resolved (but hopefully most married folk aren't trained assassins with multiple hidden weapons about the house).

2. Vantage Point - Intriguing movie about the President being in Spain and shot during a speech event. It was interesting to see how the plot unfolded while seeing it through the eyes of four different people. I didn't expect it to end the way it did, but it was good. However, I must admit that the group behind the attack didn't go as deeply into the storyline as it should have.

3. Into the Woods - This was filmed during a stage production, and I had seen it back in high school. I liked it then, and like it now! It takes several characters/stories from a few different fairy tales and they all interact when going into the woods for some reason or another. That all happens in the first act, the second act deals with the consequences of the actions taken back in act one. Very humorous and clever. Love it, love it! If you like plays, musicals and wit then you'll like this too!

4. 27 Dresses - I hadn't wanted to see this when it came out. I thought the storyline was different than it really was. But I gave in after hearing it talked up by a few friends. It's still a typical romantic comedy with a little too much profanity and always a make-out-wake-up-the-next-day-because-they-slept-together scene that could be left out entirely and it still would have made a nice movie. But that's just me I suppose. So, if you're in the mood for a predictable, but admittedly funny, romantic comedy then this is for you. (the references about bridesmaids dresses and caring for a bride were not lost on me, that was most of the funny stuff right there!)

5. Bridge Over the River Kwai - This late '60's movie featured Alec Guiness (as in SIR Alec Guiness, you know....the original Obewan?!) I had been perusing the movie selctions and somehow stumbled across this movie. I thought it was a classic, at least it sounded like one, so in our queue it went. The movie, overall, was ok. I can see how it was liked, back in the day, but by today's standards it was a bit drawn out. I enjoyed the characater developement but wished that they didn't waste so much time with non essential scenes that, honestly, we sped past using our fast forward button!

I Had a Dr. Pepper at Dinner

I'm not very smart sometimes. Take this evening, for example. I hesitated for a moment when filling up my cup when we went out to dinner. I almost chose Sprite, but then my eyes spotted the Dr. Pepper.

I knew it was wrong. I knew I'd be up late tonight due to the caffeine's effect on me. But I chose it anyway.

And now here I sit in front of the computer, while the clock reads well past 1:00 am, instead of laying in bed blissfully asleep.

Maybe I should call my phone number twin and, with my best Sinatra, sing her a song.......New York! New York!

The McGyver Menu

A great big thanks to those who gave ideas for my dinner last night!!! I went with a Goulash, which I ended up having a recipe for all along. So, I pretty much threw in cooked hamburger, can of corn, can of stewed tomatoes, chopped onion, chopped green pepper and some elbow macaroni. And voila, there was dinner!

My family enjoyed it too! In fact, as Ryan headed off for seconds he said to me that he was surprised it tasted so good, he said it just looked like a bunch of things thrown together. Well, he wasn't wrong!

~~~~~

On a side note, a friend* of mine, who commented in yesterdays post, gave me a web site that may help in future dinner pickles, and I thought I'd tell you all about it too! She said that the site is called recipematcher.com. You type in what you have in your pantry and it gives you recipes to try. I think I'll use it next time I find myself low on supplies and low on cash.

*thanks Debbie!

A McGyver Dinner Special

I don't have much in the cupboards or the fridge today and would like to see what I can do with what I have. Can you help a girl out?? I need some suggestions. Here is what I have to work with;

chicken
hamburger
can of corn
can of peas
can stewed tomatoes
frozen hash browns
can of peaches
misc pasta (linguine, and elbow noodles...I think)
jar of pasta sauce
onion

Use your imagination. Pretend that you're either on a reality show to be the Next Food Network Star -or- you only have a few dollars to your name and can't go out to buy any food today, and all you have to work with is what is listed above (and not everything has to be used, it's just all you have, plus the necessary spices). What would you serve?

Ok, ready, set, go!

It'll Tie You Up In Knots

The other day I bought the game Twister for our family. I thought it would be a great way to spend some fun time together, and it is something that doesn't involve a high level of understanding in order to play. Even little Isabel will be able to get in on some fun!

We had a good time together and the minimal cost of the game....worth it! But I gotta tell you that after playing for about a half hour to forty five minutes, I'm sore! My leg muscles were a cryin' out and shaking.

Pilates has nothing on Twister, that's all I have to say.

Google Search

Some interesting things come up when searching the world wide web for things. For example, recently Mae asked me what a beard was and after trying to describe it to her, I decided to pull up some pictures on Google Images.

Brilliant idea, right?

Well, it was, but some rather unexpected images came up as well as the typical. It was helpful in showing Mae what a beard was, but I am still at a loss as to why exactly this picture was among them.


I'm just wondering. That's all I'm sayin'.

Wait

That's what I feel like the Lord is saying to me right now. Wait.

It's an interesting feeling, this waiting. What am I to wait for? Since moving to Southern California two years ago, I've been waiting to buy a house. At first it was because we were trying to sell our house back in Michigan, and wait for the end of the lease here, then we'd buy a house. After that it was wait to save for a down payment and now it's that and pay down some debt first.

Am I waiting for a house, is that the next step?

I've also had in my mind visions of Michigan and the life we had back there, thinking of what it would be like to move back. But then I have to remind myself that the Lord has never called me back to someplace I've already been. Not that He can't or won't ever do that, it's just that I don't think that is where He will lead us. But the thoughts are still there. It even went as far as having a dream the other day that we were back at our old house and it was fall and I was feeling the environment of autumn in the air, the coolness to the breeze and the colors of the leaves, the way the neighborhood looked and who lived in which house and what the houses looked like. It was strange.

As much as we enjoy our Southern California location and the proximity to our families, am I waiting for another job change for Ryan, another relocation?

There are many things in my mind that are just on hold. Things that can't move forward until He moves us forward. I'm a little bit anxious and a lot bit nervous about this whole waiting thing. I guess I'm just nervous that I won't like it when the waiting is over and the answers are in hand. But I must remind myself that the Lord has the best in store for me, His plans are good and perfect, as I have always seen them to be once looking back.

And so I wait. I will wait on the Lord when there are many conflicting thoughts that swirl in my mind. I will wait for His timing and release. I will wait on Him.

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Jeremiah 29:11

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
John 14:27

No, Not Today

I've always cut Caleb's hair using a great electric razor (like the barbers use), and he's never liked it. When Caleb was just a wee little boy I would try to prepare him for his impending hair cut by letting him know that it was coming later that day. His response was always the same. I'd say to him in an excited voice 'Caleb, do you want a hair cut?'. And he'd reply in his sweet little-boy voice, in a matter-of-fact kind of way 'no, not today' as though that would settle the matter. It didn't, but it was sure cute.

~~~

Now that the kids are back in school I am required to get up earlier and take them to school. All week I've been consoling myself with the fact that on Saturday I can sleep in. But that's not going to happen. I have an appointment to get my hair cut, which will require me to get up earlier than I want (but at least I'll look good all day with my perfectly coiffed hair). When I recieved the automated reminder call last night the only thing I running through my mind was 'no, not today'.

No Comment

Earlier this week Mae and Caleb returned to school and we are beginning to see the effects of the budget issues that California has had in regard to education. Some class sizes are larger, less teachers, assistants and staff to go around, and little or no bus routes (to mention a few). So far the only thing that has effected our family is the loss of the bus route that we took advantage of last year.

Last year Mae was able to take the bus to and from school, and it was great! It was a very nice convenience but not necessary by any means. But with the education budget cuts, our schools and districts had to find ways of saving programs and cutting costs. Our district has saved well over a million dollars by cutting way back on bus services, and our little school lost just about all the routes that served it, including Mae's. Since this luxury was just that for us, a luxury, it was not a hard thing to accept and I think it was a wise move on the district to cut the routes. Hopefully this has saved other things like art programs and more importantly, teachers jobs.

As school began the other day, and as I waited for the kids to come out of their classes, I was approached by a reporter asking if I had used the bus system last year. I said I did, and she asked if she could interview me. Ah, well, I'd rather not (not my best of hair days, you understand) but I most graciously showed her where there were other parents were, not too far off, who may be of service to her. Before leaving she asked if I would consent if she didn't find anyone. I said yes (hoping I'd be gone before she could come back). And darn if those kids didn't come out soon enough! The reporter nabbed me before I was two feet from leaving. Bummer.

I did the little interview and answered her questions regarding the loss of the bus routes. I knew she wouldn't use my segment though. I was honest in the relevance of the buses to me, 'a nice convenience'. She proceeded to ask how the cost of gas has effected my family. Again, I was honest in my response which was 'not that bad since we don't drive around that much'. I can be so eloquent when needed, yes?.

So, no, I was not surprised when we watched the news and did not see my little interview. Caleb and Isabel made it though (a little blip of them playing in the shrubs). The mom who did make the cut talked about how far she lived from the school and how much she would love to have the routes back. Ahem, she lives maybe a mile from school. I can't feel bad about her loss for it is no worse than mine. Being a stay at home mom I feel that it falls into my job description to take my kids to and from school, and I can't quite get myself to complain about it. Besides, it gives me the opportunity to chat it up with other moms in the course of my day. And us stay at home moms know how important a little adult conversation is to ones day. However, the main issue still remains, the budget cuts that are effecting our schools. And I'd much rather take a hit with bus routes than quality of teaching and other important programs for our students.

But there you have it. The world was deprived of my brilliant mind and eloquent speech. Alas, I resign myself to remain among the masses as a undiscovered jewel of wit and wisdom, the perfect package.

Back To School

Tuesday was the first day of school for Mae and Caleb and they were both excited. They have been looking forward to it for weeks now. Mae has the same teacher that she had last year but has her for 2nd grade, and Caleb has the same kindergarten teacher that Mae had two years ago. I was pleased to hear that bit of news as I like this teacher very much. Anyway, with this news everyone was wrapped up with anticipation for this new school year. In fact, Caleb was up at 5:45 that morning and Ryan found him sitting on the couch all dressed, with shoes on and was hugging his backpack. Here is the little conversation that followed:

Ryan: Hey Buddy, school is in two hours.

Caleb: I just want to be ready.

That just melted my heart when I heard that. He'd been looking forward to this day for months and months now. It was no wonder he was up before the sun!

Mae was excited too. Moving up a grade is always cause for excitement, you know. As I walked her down the hall to her class (after dropping Caleb off at his class), she told me that she was glad to be back at school. That makes me happy to hear. I wonder how long she'll feel that way about school? Do I have a few more years at least before the dreaded school attitude begins?

Here's a photo essay of their journey to school;

the kindergartner and 2nd grader

in the truck, on our way!

walking to the school, getting closer!

first in line and eager to begin his elementary career

Mae and a class buddy

Then there's me. Excited to start another school year and watch my kids grow and learn. Excited about spending some one on one time with Isabel. Excited to go to the grocery store with just one kid. Who knew that was something I'd ever look forward to!

Faux-Pita

foh-pee-tah

noun

1) artificial or imitation pita bread; fake flat bread that does not have a 'pocket' when sliced in half

2) what is served to friends with yummy chicken salad when real pita bread was mistakenly passed over at the store for something that looked like pita bread.

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

For Mae and Caleb, school starts today! At this point they are very excited about going, and so am I! Don't get me wrong, I love my kids and this has been a great summer....but it's time to start school and get back into the routine of things. In fact, I'm a bit giddy over it! Caleb will start kindergarten and Mae the 2nd grade. This means I'll have the first half of the day with just Isabel. Who knew going grocery shopping with just one child would give me such excitement?!

This little commercial sums up how I'm feeling as my kids head out for their first day back.

Why-ning

Often I have silly, sometimes rhetorical, questions that plague my mind. Here are a few:

Why...

...is it that any time I find something at a store (clothes, shoes, etc) that the item is, most of the time, out stock of the size that I need? It doesn't matter if I'm looking for a shirt for Caleb in size 4t, they're gone! The annoying thing is that all the other sizes (one size smaller or larger) are always fully stocked. Then the following year, if I'm looking for a 5t, then it doesn't fail that they are out of it, again. It's a conspiracy I tell ya!

...does a clean kitchen give me such joy?

...do I feel the need to always tell people where I got something and how much I spent on it when either a) they compliment the item. or b) I get a great deal on something....it never fails, I just can't not tell them!

...are the kids so precious when they sleep?

...do I get emails notifying me that I've won big money in the UK lottery? I don't, and never have, played in any lottery. (maybe I should start?)

...is it that I can not bring myself to throw away a set of crummy kitchen towels I bought a few months ago? They are crappy, I tell ya, but I just can't make myself throw them away. I think about it every time I either pull one out of the drawer to use (because it is the last clean one) or when I fold it after it's been washed. Oh! I actually know the answer to this one....I'm cheap and can't stand the thought of wasting a few dollars.

...does Costco not give out samples from their bakery?

...did I just receive two issues of Field & Stream magazine? I am not a outdoorsy person. I haven't picked up a fishing pole in probably twenty years and I've never hunted a single creature on God's green earth. So why am I now the owner of the latest issues of Field & Stream? Is this a practical joke??? (anyone want me to forward them 'The Accuracy Issue' or the 'Big Bucks Now'?)

Olympic Question - Answered

A couple days ago I posed a few questions I had about what I've been seeing on the Olympics. One of them was that I have seen many videographers with blue tunics with the word BOB on them. I wondered who Bob was and why there were so many Bobs about. Well, I just received an email from a friend that has so graciously answered this strange phenomenon for me. Here is what she said;

BOB = Beijing Olympic Broadcast
We heard it mentioned during last night's coverage!

So there you have it! It's China's media coverage.

Dreams

Along with the rest of the world, my kids have been watching the Olympics. I think this is the first time that they are really understanding what it is and able to enjoy the sports and events. It's gets them thinking about being a part of it one day. Here's a conversation that occurred the other day between Caleb and his daddy.

Caleb: Dad, when I'm a teenager do I have to ask to be in the Olympics?

Ryan: Do you mean in the Olympics or go to the Olympics?

Caleb: In the Olympics.

Ryan: First you have to find a sport that your good at, then maybe you can be in the Olympics.

Caleb: I'm good at swimming.

Ryan: Well, you have to be really good.

Caleb: You've seen me swim, I'm good!

How incredible it would be to one day watch my son compete in the Olympics! I'm saving this little conversation just in case it happens, then I can look back and smile even bigger!

Pathetic

pa·thet·ic

–adjective

the cause for being unable to go through a Pilates class and not be sore the next day.

Olympic Questions

I've been watching the Olympics with the rest of the world these past few days and I've noticed a couple things that I can't quite find an answer for. Maybe my loyal readers (all two of you) can help shed some light?? Here goes....

* Why do the women's beach volleyball players wear skimpy bikinis while the men's team have full-length shorts with sleeveless shirts? Seriously, why is that??! (oh, and I'm not all that interested in watching the ladies 'readjust' their bikini bottoms after every jump or dive. ewe.)

* Has anyone noticed the guys with the video cameras, the ones taping the events, that wear the blue tunics with Chinese characters written on them along with the word 'Bob'? Does 'Bob' mean something once translated, or do all the videograophers happen to have that name? (or some odd communist standard that all males with the name Bob must be trained in the art of video taking?) Strange.

Snippets

I'm stumped. There is either not much going on right now OR my mind is just going blank. Either way, I just can't come up with anything of interest to post about. There have been a few things here or there but nothing that could constitute a full post. So here are a few snippets of things going on to keep you up to speed (because you must be really bored to want to read it).

* I have a confession. I've been a bit preoccupied with Facebook. I joined a couple weeks ago and am having fun reconnecting with people! When asked the question as to why I had not yet joined my answer was this 'I don't need another time-suck on the computer', blogging is enough. Apparently I was wrong.

* I made homemade ice cream last weekend. Yes, I've made it many times before, but this time was different. This time I had a new recipe that did not require me to cook the mixture and cool it for a while before freezing it. The result? Perfection! (thanks Carrie for passing on the recipe!!!)

* I've made a new friend! I met her and her family at a social gathering this past weekend with our couples bible study group. The amazing part is that I actually invited her and her kids over this Wednesday. This is out of my comfort zone, but I couldn't help myself. But maybe the more amazing thing is that she accepted my invitation!

* The kids start school next week. I don't know who is more excited. Me or them?

* I got a new swim suit recently and LOVE it! I mixed and matched a pair of board shorts with a longer tankini top. I love the modesty of the shorts as well as the length of the tankini (no longer do I have to be concerned with the tankini rising to show my lack of flat abs! oh, they're there, just concealed with, let's say, some 'layers').

* Potty training Isabel is going ok. I've been better recently with being more consistent with asking and taking her potty. I think she'll be ready by the time she starts preschool next month. Once MaeLeb start school, I think I'll have even more time and less distraction with getting her school-ready. Seriously though.....who is training whom?

Insomnia

Way back in December, when we were gone for Christmas, we came home and began listening to our phone messages. Among them was an unknown caller who identified themselves as living in New York and having the same phone number. The caller suggested we call and chat.

Um, no, we didn't return the call.

A few weeks ago they called back. It was after 10:00 pm and the phone rang. We have caller id and it said 'blocked'. My parents have a 'blocked' number, and we were also preparing to leave on our camping trip and I thought it could be either my parents calling (with an emergency, 'cause who calls at that late hour?) or maybe it was a friend calling about our impending trip. So I answered it.

Me: Hello?

Caller: (imagine a strong New York accent) Are you from California?

Me: (starting to remember this caller leaving a message months earlier and thinking maybe it was them) Um, yah.

Caller: Can I sing a song for you? (again with the thick accent)

Me: (matter of factly) No. (it's late, I'm tired and not interested!)

Caller: (as if my response doesn't matter, starts singing) Caaaaa-li-for-niaaaaa..

Me: ( I hang up)

I know, how rude am I? Here my phone number twin is suffering in New York and can't sleep (it was past 1:00 am over there) and I go and hang up! But maybe that's all the person needed to get to sleep.

They never called back.

Does Whatever A Spider Can

The other day I was relaxing on the couch while watching a design show, and Caleb was sitting on my lap. He was being very quiet and started playing with my hands. Soon I heard him singing a little song as he played with my fingers. I thought 'how sweet!'. I couldn't quite make out the words he was singing, but still I thought I was having a sweet moment with him as I listened to him sing. Then I heard what he was singing. Caleb was quietly singing the Spider Man song as he maneuvered my fingers into the position to release spider webs.

Not sure if that was the sweet moment I thought I was having. Guess I'll take what I can get these days!

YouTube Tuesday - Dorcs

I'm not a big fan of Crocs. However, I must admit to buying the kids some knock-offs at Target (I call them Sham-rocs). On the kids, they are cute especially Isabel. But I dare say that I do not forsee myself ever donning a pair. I'm sure they are comfortable, but I do not consider them to be very attractive. I think I'll just stick with my nifty new summer shoes for around the town and use my cheap-o flips flops for the beach and pool.

But here's a video just for fun!

Does She Know Me Or What?

This conversation occurred the other day while driving around:

Mae: Look! There's Wal-Mart!

Me: Um, yah? (we don't shop there very often so I was a little surprised at this reaction)

Mae: They have Hannah Montana stuff there, and it's cheap!

Me: And you like cheap stuff??

Mae: No, but you do.

*sigh* Yah, my seven year old daughter has me pegged. Wouldn't you say?

It's Her Prerogative

It seems that Mae gets the idea about once a year to get her hair cut. Then, she decides to not get it cut again so it will grow out and be nice and long. She's done this for the last few years. I consider her to be embracing her female-ness. Isn't that what we girls do?

This year is no exception. Last summer, right before school started Mae decided to get her hair cut in a bob style. She had never had it cut that short before and I had my reservations. It turned out so cute, I shouldn't have been so concerned. Then all year she said she didn't want it cut again and that she wanted it to be long enough to reach her bum. Well, she's female and changed her mind. This time she wanted bangs and for the length to be short-short. Again, I had my reservations about something, this time it was about the bangs. But I let her do it anyway.

Today I took Mae to get her hair cut. Here's the before and after:



What do you think? Cute, right?!

Aside from getting the necessary school supplies, I think she's ready for school!

**note: she was going to get her ears pierced too but chickened out. maybe next time!

Water

It is essential for good summer fun. For instance, it's great when coupled with a fountain.

It also comes in handy for swimming or blowing bubbles.

The beach is an excellent source of water as well (shovel and pail optional).

The backyard variety is fun too.

So grab a friend and jump on in!

But don't forget a towel!

So Thankful

I'm back. The kids and I survived each other while driving back from our trip to Modesto (the one that almost didn't happen). Praise the Lord it did happen!!! That's all I have to say.

Well, ok, I'll elaborate a little more, just so the record will show how great God really is! Is there no other reason greater than that anyway?! Nope.

Ok. So I had decided last week to absolutely not go to Modesto this summer. Of course that just opens the door to a complete change of mind. So late Friday night I decided to go to good ol' Mo-town the next morning. I did this knowing full well that I would need to depend a lot on the Lord to get me through. A lot! In fact, He would be the only force able to keep 'the ugly person' from coming out during the journey North and back. (the ugly person, you ask? well, the ugly person comes from the ugly place, remember?). And the trip up went really well. The kids were great (and even napped, gasp!) But I wasn't surprised because it is the return trip that is always the more difficult travel day.

After enjoying a few days with family, it was time to return home. I did this with much prayer and trepidation. I fear the appearance of the ugly person just as much as the kids. And it didn't look good as we pulled out of the driveway and toward the main road when one of the kids let it be known that their water bottles for the trip had been left on the counter. The ugly person was out and lashing in moments! I quickly drove around the block, ran inside (seething), and tossed the retched water bottles in the car.

Not good. Oh, so not good. I was ugly and I felt ugly. As I drove to the freeway I began to unwind from ugliness and was repentant, and as I prayed I asked and hoped that it would be the last time that The Ugly Person would makes her appearance. Thankfully, she pretty much stayed away. Again, I give all credit to the Lord for His moment by moment strength and wisdom as I chose my words and reactions carefully. If I had a penny for every prayer and supplication I made that day, well, I'd be so stinkin' rich!

So by the grace of God, the kids and I reached home and the ugly person was rarely seen or heard from again!

And they all lived happily ever after

The End

**to those who prayed, I am so thankful! please know how grateful I am for your prayers on our behalf. may crowns of glory be lavished upon you on the day of glory!!!!

I Lied

I changed my mind. I'm taking the kids to Modesto today. My mind, as it would seem, is not impervious to various thoughts and whims of fancy. So, the kids and I will pack our bags (now that all the camping laundry is done and put away, of course!) and head out once again to the land of grandmas and cousins.

Why?

Because I'm crazy. That's why.

Ok, ok. The real reason is because Tuesday is my dad's birthday and I really want to be with the family when they gather to celebrate. That alone trumps all reasons of insanity, yes? Yes.

But to tackle the inevitable monster of ugliness I will arm myself with much prayer as the kids and I head into the wild blue yonder that is the I-5 and 99 through central California. Yes indeed, by the grace of God go I.

*please feel free to join me on my quest through central California. Prayer is the only way the kids and I will survive. So if you are a prayer warrior then now is the time to arm yourselves and join me in battle!

The Ugly Place

I've decided not to take the kids to Modesto this summer. It's such a difficult trip to take with myself being the only adult with three kids. The trip is just too long and I tend to go to the ugly place when there is no accountability to keep me in check.

The ugly place, you ask?

Yes, the ugly place. The time and place when traveling alone with three kids becomes too much for all involved. The time when the kids are tired and reach the threshold of togetherness but the road still looms ahead for too many more hours. The place that mama goes to when the kids reach that threshold and turns into an ugly monster and begins to spew forth words of meanness and daggers shoot from her eyes.

That ugly place.

This is why I will not be taking the kids to the land of grandmas and cousins. The kids (and I) don't need me to go to the ugly place. So, we will just hang out here in good ol' So Cal the week before school starts. The pool is just around the corner, so maybe we'll just grab the new torpedoes and a friend or two and spend the rest of summer break there. That's much better than the ugly place any day!

Thursday Thirteen

Things I am thankful for today;

1. My son cleaned his room last night before going to bed. I had mentioned to him as I was tucking him in that he would need to clean his room today, and he took it upon himself to put things away when I left his room but before he went to sleep. He did this all in the dark (because it's lights off at bedtime!) and is so proud of himself and happy to let me know. Thanks Bud for cleaning your room!

2. Living in Southern California. There really isn't much room to complain where we live. The weather is great and the beach isnt' too far off!

3. Sandals.

4. Dishwashers. I love that I haven't had to wash the dishes since we moved here. And guess what is running right now?!

5. Friends, old and new. The Lord has blessed me with friendships that have survived our being apart, as well as new ones in new places.

6. Boogie Boards. We bought the MaeLeb boogie boards the other day and took them to the beach to try them out. What fun!!! (although I think I need to get at least one more so Mama won't have to share!)

7. My bed. There's nothing like a camping trip to make me love my bed all over again!

8. Cable T.V. I am enjoying so many shows right now all because we got cable last year. My favorite right now.....So You Think You Can Dance (dance, dance, dance). Runner ups.....Design Star, Next Food Network Star, and The Mole. The ones I'm embarrassed to admit to watching....Wipe Out, I Survived A Japanese Game Show.

9. DVR. This little feature in our cable box allows me to record and watch shows (and fast forward through commercials!) when I would normally have to miss them. I love you DVR!

10. Craigslist. I love being able to sell things that we no longer need. The best part is making money off our crap unneeded items. The latest item sold was the dishes I had to replace. Money made: ten bucks! After my sales, I put aside my money until I have need for something. Lately I have bought desks for MaeLeb, more drinking glasses, and boogie boards. I love having this little bit of extra cash for things like that!

11. My Monday night bible study. It's great to continue to meet with a friend or two and talk about the things we learned in our study. I always go home refreshed and ready to live another day for the Lord.

12. Summer break. Although it has it's moments of impatience while waiting for school to resume, I am thankful for the lazy days of summer. It's great to not have things to rush off to.

13. Swimming lessons. Mae and Caleb dide great with their lessons this year and both are doing so well in the pool. Mae started out the season being tentative in the water, while Caleb was still in floaties. Now Mae is confident and is even venturing into the 'deep end'. Caleb is also making strides as he is now floatie-free! He is a little cautious but still has his element of fearlessness. I am thankful that they were able to start the summer off with swim lessons, now they are using their skills throughout the summer and enjoying the pool even more.

Back to Reality

We're home. We survived our camping trip and are now about to engage in the daily routine that is our life. I have a certain song that comes to mind each time I come home and return to 'normal' life. If you grew up in the 80's you may recall the song. The first few lines of the song are what is most appropriate and what runs through my mind as I re-enter normal life.

So all you children of the 80's, sing with me now....



More of camping and pictures to come later.

On The Road Again

Tomorrow we will pack ourselves up and hit the road for a camping trip. The best part is that we will be meeting up with some old friends and pick up an annual camping trip that has been put on hold for many years due to our being too far away. I'm beyond excited to spend a few days with these great friends! I anticipate staying up way too late as we talk long into the night as we try to catch up as much as we can in the limited time that we have. I also look forward to seeing all our kids (9 in all!) playing together and getting to know each other once again. In a way, I feel like this is like a family reunion.

For now I am just trying to get things done and ready before we load up and leave tomorrow morning. But I had a few minutes to spare to devote to a little post, and of course I found an appropriate video (or song) that will be the theme for tomorrow.



I already have the song running through my mind, and it'll most likely stay there as we head down the road. At least until the first toy is hurled from the back seat and hits me in the head! Aside from the inevitable squabbles that will occur behind me as we're on the road, it is going to be a great trip and I can't wait!!!

The Big '3'!

Isabel, how did you get from this



to this so quickly?



Seriously, that was waaaaaay too fast. Can we slow down this whole growing up thing? This mama is having a hard time keeping up!

Happy birthday my sweet Isabel!!!!

Duh! -or- Not Very Smart -or- Whoops, I Did It Again

Genius and brilliant are not words that accurately describe me.

Not today.

Maybe when this sunburn fades and peels away.

Maybe then. But not today.

The kids and I took my parents to the beach this afternoon. You'd think that after my last beach outing (or the day after that) that I'd have learned to apply a little sunscreen knowing that even though I already have a nice tan that it isn't enough to protect myself from the sun. You'd think. But if you're me, well, some things take a little bit longer to sink in.

Twelve Years Ago Today

Today Ryan and I celebrate 12 years of marriage! Twelve years? Seriously, really? Oh yes!

The video is one of the songs we had sung on that day. It always make me think of our wedding. So it is perfect as we celebrate another year and our continued life together.

As a side note, I have to add that as I searched YouTube for an appropriate video for this post, I remembered this song and as I began to play the first video I found of the song, Ryan heard it and said 'hey you should use that one, we had that at our wedding!'. I give him props for remember such a detail. Way to go Ryan!!!



Happy Anniversary my love! You rock!!!

My Reality

Ever have one of those days where you feel like your living your own reality show? Today I feel like I'm on Survivor.

And it's down to the final four. The team? Well, there's me

Then there are the other three (also known as 'The Others', but that's a whole other show)

Don't let the sweet little faces fool you. They can be brutal when it serves their purpose. I fear that the alliances out there are about to vote me off. But they can't! Why? Because I'm the one who makes their food!

But then the tide of the game takes a turn. Just as I am about to outwit my opponents, wham! I'm sabotaged. But by whom? One of 'the others' is helpful, another is compliant and the other is suspiciously absent.

Maybe I'm not on Survivor......maybe one of 'the others' is The Mole?

Pro-nun-skee-a-tion

Caleb still has some residual babish type words. Mostly, it just a matter of how he pronounces certain letter or sounds. For example, Caleb will use an f sound in lieu of th. Take the word think, for example, in this case it sounds more like fink. I don't mind that he does this, in a way it's still cute. Caleb will grow up soon enough so I am holding onto these sweet little words as long as I can.

However, the other night, Ryan decided to help Caleb with his pronunciation of the word think. Here is how it all went down:

Ryan: (enunciating and drawing out the th sound while he says the word slowly) Thhhhhhh-ink. Now you try.

Caleb: Thhhhhhh-ink.

Ryan: Good! Now, thhhink. (as he said it a little faster)

Caleb: Thhh-ink.

Ryan: Good job! Now, think. (said quicker or at a more normal speed of talking)

Caleb: (tries to say it faster but it doesn't come out) I fink I'll just say fink.

All this talk of pronunciation makes me think of Popeye and the way he spoke in the movie back in 1980. I love the way Robin Williams portrayed Popeye with all his mucked up speech! So in the spirit of pro-nun-skee-a-tion I leave you with this clip of Popeye....I Yam What I Yam! Enjoy~

I Remember.....

Back before we had kids, when we lived in Portland, and I was working at a property management company in a very small accounting department. Most times there were only two of us, but on some days there were three or four. The owners wife occasionally worked in the office next to ours when she upgraded the computer systems and fixed bugs here and there. Julie was not a stodgy owner's wife, but rather laid back and fun. In fact she was often the source of much conversation and slacking off when she was around. She would tell us stories of when her girls were young (they were tweenage at the time) or on special days she told us of when she and The Boss were dating (hee hee hee!).

When I announced that I was pregnant (with Mae), Julie was so excited for me and began to reminisce of days gone by. She told many personal stories of pregnancy and babies and little kids. On one such occasion of her brief appearance at the office, she told us how she and her friends would call each other at night when the kids were down and set up a rendezvous at Rite-Aid. They would meet at the store and enjoy walking the isles while finding fun little things on the shelves and giggle and chat. I didn't get it. I mean, come on, how exciting is Rite-Aid?! But now, years and three kids later, I understand. What a great way to get out of the house, with no kids, and see friends! And finding little tid bits from the shelves would be fun too!

Anyone up for a late night rendezvous? Say CVS, at 8:30? But not tonight, So You Think You Can Dance is on.

Dishwasher Issues

I have a question for all you dishwasher people out there. Or maybe I should rephrase that...a question for those of you who have a dishwasher and use it and may know anything about them. That's better!

Before I get into my question, I think I should relay my dishwasher story (my story of woe). Lately, after the dishwasher is finished it's load, a few dishes/glasses/utensils have some soapy, sorta gunky spots on them along with some filmy residue.

So here's my question; is it my dishwasher or the detergent?

I'm inclined to think it's the dishwasher, but I'm not sure. The bottle of dishwasher gel stuff is not new, in fact it's getting low so I need to get a new one. Since the dishwashing detergent isn't new and this is a new occurrence, I'm inclined to blame the washer itself. The funny part (funny as in odd, not ha ha funny) is that just few things get icky after the wash and not the whole load.

So there you have it. My dish washing dilemma. What say you? What do you think the problem is? Help!

Six More Weeks!!!

Can I survive it? Will the kids live to see the start of school? At this point I'm not sure if Caleb will ever experience kindergarten or beyond. The outcome doesn't look good.

I remember, as a kid, looking forward to summer vacation. But now that I'm a stay at home mom, a part of me really dreads it. And now I am left counting the days until school resumes. Six weeks.

Actually, once this weekend hits then the rest of summer should skate by little easier. My parents will be in town as well as my brother and his family. We have a few things planned and that will help a lot. After that, then we will go camping. When we get home then we have about a week or so before VBS. After VBS I am thinking about making a trek to Modesto for a week. Then the following week school begins!

So if I can just make it to this weekend then I think we can survive. Maybe. We'll see.

I Heart 'Craig'

I love Craigslist. I just love it! I love being able to get rid of things and make a few extra bucks. The emails may be one of my favorite parts of listing things with 'Craig'. I post my item then wait for the suckers people to bite and send inquiry emails. I get giddy just thinking about it! My other favorite part is when I make a profit off an item. I did that last year when I bought, then sold, a desk. hee hee hee Look at me!....I'm getting giddy all over again!

Tuesday was another one of those days. Remember when I mentioned that Isabel is no longer using a stroller? Well, I tried to sell our jogging stroller at our garage sale last weekend but there were no takers. So I listed it with Craig. And the first person to respond came to look at it and bought it. We bought it back in Michigan for seven bucks at a neighbors yard sale. And I sold it for twenty!!!

Now, Ryan thinks I ripped the lady off. Me, on the other hand, I say she made an informed choice. It's not like I made her buy it, or that I forced her to put it in her van and give me a twenty dollar bill. Nuh huh, nothing like that.

My listing had details of what it had, what it didn't do, as well as pictures. It's not my fault that she didn't read the listing that the stroller didn't fold up. It's not my fault that the she didn't like the little rust spots on the wheels or the stain on the material (I did point out that the material easily comes off with the handy little velcro straps and can be washed). But she kept asking for a lower price, and I kept insisting that I would not accept it. I had only listed it that afternoon and she was the first 'looker', so I didn't feel I had anything to loose. She even went as far as to walk toward her van while asking one more time for the lower price. And yet I was unmoved. The lady walked to her van and opened the passenger door and figured out a way to put the stroller inside. Then she paid me and left. See? Informed decision!

Now I look around the house for more unused items to add to my list of things to hand over to Mr. Craig. I love you Craigslist!!!

Random Acts of Kid-ness

I was tagged by Amanda for a meme. And as I haven't done a meme in a while, I thought this one was easy and wouldn't take much brain power to make it work. Also, I've hit a wall when it comes to things to blog about. So, here's a list of seven random things about my kids:

1. Mae was a thumb sucker up until last year. We gently tried to get her to stop, but it took the dentist telling her, and showing her pictures, of the damage that thumb sucking can do to get her to stop. (why does it sometimes take someone other than mom or dad to get kids to do, or not do, something?)

2. Isabel is a thumb sucker too. But she only sucks her left one, never the right.

3. Caleb got scratched by Isabel yesterday, poor guy! She scratched him on his face and left a Locke-like wound (think of the gash John Locke had after the plane crash). Of course it doesn't show up too well on camera, but yesterday you could really see the scratch on his forehead above his eye. Anyway, Isabel is no girly girl. She can hold her own, that's for sure! Oh, and Caleb, well, he's sort of a sensitive guy.


4. Isabel can, and often does, do the taco tongue. When in the truck the other day, she says 'Wook mommy! Wook!' I turn around and there she is sticking her taco tongue at me!

5. Caleb confessed to me yesterday that he was thinking about bad things. Bad things like kicking and hitting, because he thinks those things are fun. (he's five and I'm still not used to having a boy! what's up with that?!)

6. Mae is just like her mother, she's a pack rat. I sold her desk last weekend at our garage sale so I could get her a smaller one to fit the room better. Now that she has a 'new' desk with smaller drawers, she is having a hard time fitting all her stuff inside. And throwing things away is not an option. *sigh* (note: I no longer consider myself a pack rat. moving six times in ten years had a way of bringing out the purge in me!)

7. Mae and Caleb are different in their approach to things that they don't understand. Mae will ask incessant questions until she gets it. Caleb, on the other hand, will think about it until he thinks he's figured it out, then he will explain it to you in what we call a proposal. His proposals aren't always correct, but you can tell that he's thought it out. Here's an example....'airplanes have wings so people can walk on them'. See, he's thought it through, but unless he's thinking of a wing walker on a bi-plane, then, well, I don't think they were intended to be walked on.

There! That wasn't so bad. Thanks Amanda for the tag and reason (or the idea) for a post! Now what shall I post about tomorrow??.....

June Movie Review

Wow, we watched eight movies last month! Considering that we only watched four the month before, I'd say that's quite a feet! Although I know why....our regular tv shows are on break (but here's the odd part, aside from Lost I can't remember what the shows were!). Anyway, here are the movies we watched last month:

1. Much Ado About Nothing - This was the 1993 version with Emma Thompson and (her then husband) Kenneth Branagh, oh and let's not forget (Mr. Wonderful!) Denzel Washington! Anyway, I've always enjoyed this version of Shakespeare's play. It's one of his humorous plays and is fun to watch (once you get into the groove of listening to old English speech). Of course I recommend it!

2. Twelfth Night - Another Shakespeare play. The synopsis on Blockbuster Online said it was a humorous play, but we didn't quite get the humor. The main plot line is about mistaken identity, about brother and sister twins that are separated during a storm while at sea. As I said, the humor escaped us. It was more strange than funny. Let's just say, I don't find humor in a woman thinking she's attracted to what she thinks is a man but really is a woman disguised as a man. Ewe. Overall the movie was ok.

3. A Midsummer Night's Dream - Yep, another Shakespearean play. But the trend ends here. We have seen this on an actual stage and I read it back in my high school drama class. It was entertaining in it's strange way of storytelling. What else can I say? It's Shakespeare with big-name actors!

4. In America - This one caught me by surprise and Ryan and I both liked it. It's about a family of four that immigrates to America from Ireland and end up in New York. They struggle to find housing and jobs as the couple raise their two girls. The family meet colorful characters in the building they live in and people they work with. I enjoyed the character developement and storyline. I would recommend this one. (although I did have to glance away from the screen for one scene - so you've been warned, if you choose to see it).

5. On Golden Pond - A classic! I had never seen it but always heard it was good. Didn't it win awards the year it came out? I'm sure it did, it was good. I always enjoy a film that developes its characters so you feel like you know them. I enjoyed watching Katherine Hepburn and Henry Fonda. Their characters were like watching a real couple bicker! But the movie isn't so much about thier relationship as the one they have with thier daughter who purposely stays away as much as possible. So the daughter shows up with her boyfriend and his son. Let's just say that Fonda's character makes it difficult for anyone to get along with. Well, I'll just leave it there, you go see the rest to find out what happens (if you haven't already seen it).

6. The Count of Monte Cristo - Ahhhh....good movie! I've seen the older version with Richard Chamberlin but thought I'd give a more updated version a try. I'm glad I did. This one had James Caviezal as the main character, and I think I like him. It's about a man who is betrayed and locked in an island prison never to be seen or heard from again. This happens right before he is to be married to his love. How tragic! After a few years in prison, a tunneling would-be escapee takes a wrong turn and ends up in Caviezals cell. They join efforts to tunnel out as the other man educates him (sword fighting, reading, reasoning and just plain makes him smart). Meanwhile, unbeknownst to him, his fiancee marries his best friend! The plot thickens after his narrow escape. After that....well, you'll just have to rent the movie to find out!

7. Everything Is Illuminated - We saw this movie back in October of 2006, remember? It was one of those movies where we picked up a couple humorous lines and repeat them to each other to make the other laugh. We felt it was time to see it again. It did not disappoint.

8. Definitely, Maybe - **Caution, spoiler ahead** I thought this would be a lighthearted romantic comedy. No harm in that, right? By industry standards that is what this movie was, and although it did have humour and romance, in the end I fail to see any of it. Basically, the movie is about a father (who is recently divorced) telling his daughter about how he and his now ex-wife (the daughter's mother) met, fell in love, got married. He decides to tweak the story a bit and changes the names of three ladies he dated as well as a few details so that his daughter would not know who her mother was in the story. He makes it a mystery for her and she has to figure out who she was/is. After he is finished with the story and doesn't tell her which of the three ladies he married, the daughter figures it out. Just when you think that maybe the retelling of the story will soften his heart to his ex, he walks away from his daughter and his ex (a custody drop off of the child situation). Later, the daughter decides that her dad really loved another woman all along, so she helps him seek her out and mend the broken relationship and all is happy. The whole time I'm thinking/hoping that the movie resolves itself with a restoration of the marriage. It doesn't. And they say that the daughter is happy about this. This is so far from reality. I don't know what child would ever be happy in a situation like that! Divorce is destructive and hurtful to everyone in the family, especially children! In reality the daughter would be angry with her father for loving another woman, let alone having a possible step-mother in the future. It's wrong and a load of crap! Ok, I'll just stop with that, because I could go on and on. Do I recommend this? Um, no.

On that happy note, this is the conclusion of our June movies. Hopefully July will be a more uplifting month. Stay tuned!

YouTube Tuesday - Robo Kids

This last Halloween, my brother made the costumes for his two boys. They were robots and my brother did an awesome job with the costumes! Steven also enjoys his video camera and likes to tweak the videos into something even more fun. Here, take a look at his latest project, Robo-Kids:



I'm not sure, but I think Steven may have had more fun than the boys!