Tuesday, October 25, 2011
10-25-2011
Last night Lily was inducted into her Brownies Troop. Luke and I attended the ceremony. The treat afterwards was brownies of course!
Charlie continues to have rhonchi, rubbing, and wheezing throughout his lung fields. Will be calling the doctor today and asking for a respiratory consult.
Luke is going on a field trip today to Crystal Cave. Hoping he has a great time! He was supposed to have a playdate this past Saturday, but had a cold and we had to cancel it.
Charlie continues to have rhonchi, rubbing, and wheezing throughout his lung fields. Will be calling the doctor today and asking for a respiratory consult.
Luke is going on a field trip today to Crystal Cave. Hoping he has a great time! He was supposed to have a playdate this past Saturday, but had a cold and we had to cancel it.
Sunday, October 16, 2011
10-16-2011
Good weekend with out any rain! Yesterday we had deck hockey from 0900 to 1030. Then we did a bunch of running around. Charlie and Lily went to the high school football game last night and styed until half-time. It was Lily's first football game. Luke and I stayed home and watched Modern Marvels on Netflix.
Today we did stuff around the house all day and were very productive. Felt great!
Today we did stuff around the house all day and were very productive. Felt great!
Thursday, October 13, 2011
10-13-2011
It's raining.....again. We did manage to squeeze in a trip to Weaver's Orchard this past Saturday while it was sunny and warm. Of course, everyone in the tri-county area had the same idea and the place was packed!
Charlie continues with a hacking, non-productive cough. He's had it for about a month and had a CXR on Tuesday that they tell us is clear. Seems hard to believe given how his lungs sound. So, he's taking zithromax and an inhaler. Hope he gets better. He hasn't missed any work and actually sounds better than he did a week or 2 ago.
We continue learning about the ipad Charlie bought. We have a cable so we can hook it to the big screen TV and watch Netflix stream videos. The kids are enjoying a mirror app that distorts their features and garage band where they make up and play their own songs. Lots of entertainment value.
Charlie continues with a hacking, non-productive cough. He's had it for about a month and had a CXR on Tuesday that they tell us is clear. Seems hard to believe given how his lungs sound. So, he's taking zithromax and an inhaler. Hope he gets better. He hasn't missed any work and actually sounds better than he did a week or 2 ago.
We continue learning about the ipad Charlie bought. We have a cable so we can hook it to the big screen TV and watch Netflix stream videos. The kids are enjoying a mirror app that distorts their features and garage band where they make up and play their own songs. Lots of entertainment value.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
10-4-2011
We all had a wonderful weekend! After school on Friday I took the kids up to P&J's for a weekend sleepover. They went to Tobias' Aanimal Farm on Saturday for a fall festival and had a great time by all reports. Lily held a snake during a reptile show. Both loved the petting zoo and outdoor playground.
Charlie and I did the 4 Centuries in Berks Historic Homes Tour. This year the area explored was Wyomissing and it was the best tour to date. We loved it! Lots of great houses. It took us the entire day to do them all. We stopped off at Dunkin Donuts on our way and snacked on donuts and coffee on the drive between houses. Afterwards we went to Austin's for dinner. We really had a great time. It was a year ago that we had the hostage crisis next door. It sure was nice not to have that stressor this year!
As I type this it's early Tuesday morning and I'm on a rocking chair by a window in my bedroom. Lily is asleep in my bed and Luke asleep in Charlie's bed. Charlie left for his job in Wynnewood about an hour ago. The heat is on (we turned it on Sunday morning and knock on wood it seems to be working) and we are warm and cozy. Life is good!
Charlie and I did the 4 Centuries in Berks Historic Homes Tour. This year the area explored was Wyomissing and it was the best tour to date. We loved it! Lots of great houses. It took us the entire day to do them all. We stopped off at Dunkin Donuts on our way and snacked on donuts and coffee on the drive between houses. Afterwards we went to Austin's for dinner. We really had a great time. It was a year ago that we had the hostage crisis next door. It sure was nice not to have that stressor this year!
As I type this it's early Tuesday morning and I'm on a rocking chair by a window in my bedroom. Lily is asleep in my bed and Luke asleep in Charlie's bed. Charlie left for his job in Wynnewood about an hour ago. The heat is on (we turned it on Sunday morning and knock on wood it seems to be working) and we are warm and cozy. Life is good!
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
9-20-2011
Busy, busy, busy....that's how it feels around here! Getting into a routine with the kids being back in school.
Sunday Sept. 11th we went to the Gibney Family Reunion. At first I thought it felt weird to do something fun like that on the tenth anniversary of the terrorist attacks. Then I realized it was the perfect thing to do. Spending the day surrounded by family, sharing memories and creating new ones was a perfect celebration of life.
I volunteered in the kid's school on Thursday and got a lot done in the workroom for the teachers. It helps me feel connected to what's going on in their days.
Friday Gail Grill, a student of mine from last year, met me at the house after work. She is going to stay with the kids ,here at home, from 0545 until 0845 on Monday, Wednesday, Friday. That way Charlie can go to work in Wynnewood at his regular time (0515) and get a lot more done in his day. When he had to wait until 0845 to take the kids to school it put him at the job site around 1000. I really like Gail and think it will work out well. The kids met her Friday after school and didn't have a lot to say. Yesterday she came for the first time to watch them. Neither Luke nor Lily will give me many details. Gail said it went fine. The plan at this point is to do this while Charlie is working further away. Once he returns to local jobs, I'm hoping he can take back over the morning watch.
Saturday was the first day of fall deck heck at Ozzie's. Both Luke & Lily are playing this season. After hockey, Lily and I went to the Oley Fair. Charlie is getting over being sick and didn't want to go. Luke feels like he is getting sick and didn't want to go. Lily and I had a good time.
Sunday Lily and I traveled to Mom and Dad's to see Michael who is in from Kansas for a visit. Jill came over. I haven't see her in almost as long as I haven't seen Michael. I was expalining to Lily on the drive up that we don't have a lot in common with Jill or Michael other than the fact that we are family. Sad, but true. In any event, it was nice to have a visit. On the way home, Lily talked me in to stopping off at a Chinese buffet. That was probably the highlight of the trip, for both of us!
Sunday Sept. 11th we went to the Gibney Family Reunion. At first I thought it felt weird to do something fun like that on the tenth anniversary of the terrorist attacks. Then I realized it was the perfect thing to do. Spending the day surrounded by family, sharing memories and creating new ones was a perfect celebration of life.
I volunteered in the kid's school on Thursday and got a lot done in the workroom for the teachers. It helps me feel connected to what's going on in their days.
Friday Gail Grill, a student of mine from last year, met me at the house after work. She is going to stay with the kids ,here at home, from 0545 until 0845 on Monday, Wednesday, Friday. That way Charlie can go to work in Wynnewood at his regular time (0515) and get a lot more done in his day. When he had to wait until 0845 to take the kids to school it put him at the job site around 1000. I really like Gail and think it will work out well. The kids met her Friday after school and didn't have a lot to say. Yesterday she came for the first time to watch them. Neither Luke nor Lily will give me many details. Gail said it went fine. The plan at this point is to do this while Charlie is working further away. Once he returns to local jobs, I'm hoping he can take back over the morning watch.
Saturday was the first day of fall deck heck at Ozzie's. Both Luke & Lily are playing this season. After hockey, Lily and I went to the Oley Fair. Charlie is getting over being sick and didn't want to go. Luke feels like he is getting sick and didn't want to go. Lily and I had a good time.
Sunday Lily and I traveled to Mom and Dad's to see Michael who is in from Kansas for a visit. Jill came over. I haven't see her in almost as long as I haven't seen Michael. I was expalining to Lily on the drive up that we don't have a lot in common with Jill or Michael other than the fact that we are family. Sad, but true. In any event, it was nice to have a visit. On the way home, Lily talked me in to stopping off at a Chinese buffet. That was probably the highlight of the trip, for both of us!
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
9-6-2011
Lots and lots and lots of rain. I made snickerdoodle cookies for us to have as an after school treat. And creamy homestyle chicken for supper.
Sunday, September 4, 2011
9-2-2011
Holy Cow....so much has happened since I last posted. Where to begin?
The day we returned from OCMD there was an earthquake in Virginia, not terribly far from where we were on the road driving home. We knew absolutely nothing about it until Dad called Charlie's cell phone and told us. The radio in the minivan doesn't work. It shorted out a few days before we left for the beach. Some of the towns we drove thru had sirens going, but we didn't think anything of it at the time. Another example of ignorance being bliss.
Then the weekend following our return we had Hurricane Irene. She was a pretty big deal up and down the east coast as millions lost power and experienced storm damage. We kept power, but lost 2 big trees next to the barn and lots of branches and leaves. The trees kept blowing in a scary way, so we hung out in our emergency closet and watched DVDs. Better safe than sorry. It was kinda fun. Like a camping adventure.
Then that Monday the kids started school. Lily thinks her teacher (Mrs. Reimert) is very nice. She's not happy there are some special needs kids in her class who act out, but overall seems okay with the state of things. Luke isn't too enthusiastic about school or his teacher. He wants to try home schooling. I'm asking him to hang in there until Christmas and then we'll re-evaluate.
This past Thursday marked the end of week 1 of the school year. We celebrated by having a scavenger hunt with treats all along the way. The kids loved it!
The day we returned from OCMD there was an earthquake in Virginia, not terribly far from where we were on the road driving home. We knew absolutely nothing about it until Dad called Charlie's cell phone and told us. The radio in the minivan doesn't work. It shorted out a few days before we left for the beach. Some of the towns we drove thru had sirens going, but we didn't think anything of it at the time. Another example of ignorance being bliss.
Then the weekend following our return we had Hurricane Irene. She was a pretty big deal up and down the east coast as millions lost power and experienced storm damage. We kept power, but lost 2 big trees next to the barn and lots of branches and leaves. The trees kept blowing in a scary way, so we hung out in our emergency closet and watched DVDs. Better safe than sorry. It was kinda fun. Like a camping adventure.
Then that Monday the kids started school. Lily thinks her teacher (Mrs. Reimert) is very nice. She's not happy there are some special needs kids in her class who act out, but overall seems okay with the state of things. Luke isn't too enthusiastic about school or his teacher. He wants to try home schooling. I'm asking him to hang in there until Christmas and then we'll re-evaluate.
This past Thursday marked the end of week 1 of the school year. We celebrated by having a scavenger hunt with treats all along the way. The kids loved it!
Yesterday Charlie and Luke bought BB guns at Wal Mart. They dream of wounding/killing the groundhogs that are all over the property. We shall see...
Today Charlie and the kids are at Dorney Park enjoying themselves. I had no desire to go and am enjoying the peace and quiet here at home. A win-win for everyone!
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Monday, August 22, 2011
8-22-2011
Charlie and the kids are at the Jolly Roger Amusement and Water Park today. They packed a bag of drinks and snacks but forgot it here in the room. I called and offered to drive it to them, but they declined. lily in particular seemed pleased with the fact that they'd have to buy whatever they needed.
Kathy, Ben, and Adan left for home. Adan got 2 hermit crabs to have as pets before they left. It certainly made leaving much easier for him and was a stroke of genious on Kathy's part.
I'm hanging out solo in the hotel room. Doing a little puttering around the room. Reading. Snacking. Took off my nail polish. Will soon get a shower. Blogging. It's sunny and hot in the sun and I have no desire whatsoever to face that.
I was awake before sunrise, but didn't feel like getting out of bed and going to the beach for the photo op. We all slept/stayed in bed until around 0730. I suppose that's what vacation is all about.
Sunday, August 21, 2011
8-21-2011
Started today off watching the sun rise by myself on the beach. I saw dolphins swimming not too far off shore. It was so beautiful I told Charlie it was much more of a religious experience than going to church. I had problems with my camera, but managed to get some good pictures of both the sunrise and the dolphins as well as seagulls and some other kind of bird I find quite entertaining as it eats along the water's edge.
I came back to the room and Charlie, Lily, and I went for breakfast. Luke was still asleep in the room with Kathy, Ben, and Adan. We came back after hanging out for a while under a nice shady pergola and everybody but me went miniature golfing across the street from the hotel.
Once they came back we went poolside for lunch with eveybody for pizza. Charlie and Lily are still out there. Luke hasn't wanted to do anything but hang out in the room and watch TV since they got back from miniature golf. I'm in the room with him. The sun is pretty intense and I don't mind being in the air conditioning as opposed to the heat 1 little bit.
Saturday, August 20, 2011
8-20-2011
At the beach....Left home yesterday quite early, around 0600. Arrived at the beach around 1045. We changed into swimsuits and hit the beach for the afternoon. Clouds started rolling in along with some thunder that had the life guards clearing the beach. so, off we went to Grotto Pizza, which hit the spot perfectly. After our early dinner we took a drive south along the Coastal Highway to the end of the boardwalk and across the bay. Then we headed back to the hotel and met up with Kathleen in our hotel room. A long day for sure, but happy we arrived safe & sound and the kids are thrilled to be here.
This morning Lily and I headed down to the beach around 0545 to watch the sun rise and get some great pictures. Then we went to Dunkin Donuts for cofee. Charlie and the kids took a bike ride from our hotel on 145th street all the way to 1st street. There they went to Ripley's Musuem. They took the bus back to the hotel since they were too exhausted to ride their bikes back. We're currently hanging out in the hotel room, getting ready to go down to the beach soon.
This morning Lily and I headed down to the beach around 0545 to watch the sun rise and get some great pictures. Then we went to Dunkin Donuts for cofee. Charlie and the kids took a bike ride from our hotel on 145th street all the way to 1st street. There they went to Ripley's Musuem. They took the bus back to the hotel since they were too exhausted to ride their bikes back. We're currently hanging out in the hotel room, getting ready to go down to the beach soon.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
8-18-2011
Packed and ready for the beach. We plan on leaving tomorrow morning by 0600. I did not want to go and tried my best to weasle out of it. But Lily was very determined that I go and Charlie and Luke said they wanted me to go, although they would respect my decision to stay home. So....I'm going.
The kids are sooooo excited. They were in full gear all day today. They played in the barn with water balloons while I got us packed.
Praying for a safe, healthy trip.
Sunday, August 14, 2011
8-14-2011
Finished up back to school shopping yesterday. I took each child separately. They only needed a few things each. I did get them each a new pair of sneakers. So, they're all set.
Yesterday Charlie and the kids took the canoe to try to find the dock. They found it on an island about 3 miles fromhere. Charlie dis-assembled the whole thing and boated it across the river piece by piece. Then he loaded it into his truck and brought it home. Good thing they went yesterday because it's been raining ever since. The river is up 4 feet since yesterday.
Not too much going on today. Just chilling at home.
Yesterday Charlie and the kids took the canoe to try to find the dock. They found it on an island about 3 miles fromhere. Charlie dis-assembled the whole thing and boated it across the river piece by piece. Then he loaded it into his truck and brought it home. Good thing they went yesterday because it's been raining ever since. The river is up 4 feet since yesterday.
Saturday, August 6, 2011
8-6-2011
We got our back to school packets in the mail today. Wow did the summer go fast! I don't know Luke's teacher and haven't heard of anyone else we know in his class yet. Lily's teacher I know vaguely from volunteering last year in the school work room. She doesn't seem overly warm & fuzzy. Hoping I'm wrong about that. We haven't heard of anyone we know in Lily's class yet either. I put out emails and a posting on Facebook.
This morning Charlie & the kids went to Sam's to buy a new bed for me & Charlie. We HATE the bed we bought a few years ago. But....we are making interest-free payments on it until 2013. Out of a misplaced sense of I don't even know what, I insisted on sleeping in that God awful bed at least until we paid it off. However, I have been having too many aches and pains and think the bad bed has something to do with it. So....Charlie talked me into a new bed. $319 from Sam's Club.
The other big ticket item Charlie and the kids purchased while at Sam's was a big screen TV. 32 inches. Now mind you, we still do not have any kind of cable or satellite television service. So we'll be using the big screen for DVD's and the kids to play Wii. Maybe we'll look into a video streaming online service in the future. I knew they'd come home w/ a big screen even though I told Charlie not to. I wasn't at all surprised. He sent Lily into the house when they got home to break the news to me. Not worth getting upset over. plus, I was all hepped up over the school packets.
This morning Charlie & the kids went to Sam's to buy a new bed for me & Charlie. We HATE the bed we bought a few years ago. But....we are making interest-free payments on it until 2013. Out of a misplaced sense of I don't even know what, I insisted on sleeping in that God awful bed at least until we paid it off. However, I have been having too many aches and pains and think the bad bed has something to do with it. So....Charlie talked me into a new bed. $319 from Sam's Club.
The other big ticket item Charlie and the kids purchased while at Sam's was a big screen TV. 32 inches. Now mind you, we still do not have any kind of cable or satellite television service. So we'll be using the big screen for DVD's and the kids to play Wii. Maybe we'll look into a video streaming online service in the future. I knew they'd come home w/ a big screen even though I told Charlie not to. I wasn't at all surprised. He sent Lily into the house when they got home to break the news to me. Not worth getting upset over. plus, I was all hepped up over the school packets.
Sunday, July 31, 2011
7-31-2011
Charlie took the kids to Dorney Park on Friday with Kathy and Adan. They had a great time and didn't get home until after 11 pm! It was the perfect day to enjoy the water park because with the heat index it was 104!
Dad fell yesterday into his boat while baling out water from his dock. Today he's very stiff and borrowed a cane from Gram Ada to walk this morning. Thank God he didn't break his neck!
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
7-22-2011
Record setting heat today....106 degrees. I made plans for the kids to go to work with Charlie this morning until 0900. Then Kathy would pick them up and bring them here to stay inside in the comfortable air conditioning.
The 1st sign that things were not going as planned came when I arrived home and couldn't open the kitchen door. Lily had turned on the whole house fan. What this does is suck in air from outside the house. Not good when the temperature outside is 106. And they did not have on any of the ceiling fans. So, they all sat in the living room on the sofa. Sweating. And red. And wilted. Not good. The temp. in the living room with the AC running was 89.
I was not at all pleased. I basically sent Kathy and Adan packing. It took several hours to get things back to 'normal'. Of course, having air conditioning on such a day is a blessing. Even more so when used properly!
Thursday, July 21, 2011
7-21-2011
It's 102 degrees outside. The kids and I have been inside all day. Luke is watching a DVD and Lily was watching Mario on the laptop.
Tomorrow is suposed to be even hotter. Kathy was supposed to watch the kids at her place. Since they do not have air conditioning I made the suggestion that Kathy come to our house. So that's the game plan.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
7-16-2011
We went to see the final Harry Potter movie in 3-D yesterday afternoon. I'm sooo glad we did. It was wonderful! The best 1 in the series. Charlie and I both cried at the end. And I'm so happy we saw it in 3-D and before I started hearing chatter about it from others. VERY, VERY GOOD!
Afterwards, we stopped off at Schells b/c Charlie had to use the bathroom. He and the kids got ice cream to top off the afternoon.
Then we came home and started watching Harry Potter DVDs that we have.
A nice way to spend a Friday afternoon as a family!
Today we did work around the house all morning then ran errands in the afternoon. Charlie and the kids are coming up from the dock and I'm making roasted potatoes and hamburgers for supper.
Afterwards, we stopped off at Schells b/c Charlie had to use the bathroom. He and the kids got ice cream to top off the afternoon.
Then we came home and started watching Harry Potter DVDs that we have.
A nice way to spend a Friday afternoon as a family!
Today we did work around the house all morning then ran errands in the afternoon. Charlie and the kids are coming up from the dock and I'm making roasted potatoes and hamburgers for supper.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
7-12-2011
We sure have been enjoying our summer. Last Friday Charlie was off and spent the day with the kids. They went miniature golfing, had lunch at Five Guys Burgers and Fries and then went to Blue Marsh Lake. Unfortunately, they weren't at Blue Marsh very long when thunderstorms moved in and they had to leave.Still and all, they had a very enjoyable day.
Sunday we went with P&J on a bus trip to Baltimore Inner Harbor to the National Aqarium. We spent the entire day at the aquarium and had a very nice time. Lily's favorite things were: the escalators, buying a turtle braclet and necklace, being with family, and the revolving doors. Next time we can save a trip and just go to the mal(ha,ha).
Yesterday, I took the kids to Blue Marsh for the afternoon. It was so cookin' hot, even I spent almost all my time in the water. we had lots of fun. When we pulled into Blue Marsh the kids told me Charlie paid on Friday even though no one was at the guard house and they had an "honor box" set up. I explained that Charlie and I believe in karma and even though we may not be reward that day for doing the right thing, eventually we will be. Luke goes, "well mom...how's that workin' for ya?" Too funny!
Kathy has been taking them swimming to Debbie's on Wednesdays and Fridays when she watches them.They play "name a body part" on the way home. She told them they could not name inappropritate body parts. then she dropped her glasses and said "oh, nuts." They immediately jumped on her for saying an inappropriate body part. they're quick!
Sunday we went with P&J on a bus trip to Baltimore Inner Harbor to the National Aqarium. We spent the entire day at the aquarium and had a very nice time. Lily's favorite things were: the escalators, buying a turtle braclet and necklace, being with family, and the revolving doors. Next time we can save a trip and just go to the mal(ha,ha).
Yesterday, I took the kids to Blue Marsh for the afternoon. It was so cookin' hot, even I spent almost all my time in the water. we had lots of fun. When we pulled into Blue Marsh the kids told me Charlie paid on Friday even though no one was at the guard house and they had an "honor box" set up. I explained that Charlie and I believe in karma and even though we may not be reward that day for doing the right thing, eventually we will be. Luke goes, "well mom...how's that workin' for ya?" Too funny!
Kathy has been taking them swimming to Debbie's on Wednesdays and Fridays when she watches them.They play "name a body part" on the way home. She told them they could not name inappropritate body parts. then she dropped her glasses and said "oh, nuts." They immediately jumped on her for saying an inappropriate body part. they're quick!
Monday, July 11, 2011
Monday, July 4, 2011
Saturday, July 2, 2011
7-2-2011
Great start to the long weekend. Yesterday I took the kids to Blue Marsh for a couple of hours to play in the sand and swim. They had a great time. I did too, except that I stepped on a bee and it stung me. I had to send the kids alone to the minivan to get me baking soda to put on the sting. They crossed the parking lot by themselves. I was quite nervous, but it couldn't be helped. They did a great job taking care of me, then getting right back to fun and games.
Today we enjoyed time down at the dock. Charlie did some fishing from the canoe. Luke took the kayak out for a little fishing, although he stayed tethered to the canoe for safety.Lily swam. I read. we had hamburgers and chips dockside. Very nice. Now we're pooped and hanging out in our bedroom watching a Harry Potter DVD.
Today we enjoyed time down at the dock. Charlie did some fishing from the canoe. Luke took the kayak out for a little fishing, although he stayed tethered to the canoe for safety.Lily swam. I read. we had hamburgers and chips dockside. Very nice. Now we're pooped and hanging out in our bedroom watching a Harry Potter DVD.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
6-28-2011
Lily had a playdate with her friend Lila this afternoon. Luke chose to go to Ballocity to play for a few hours. I hung out in the parent waiting area and read a book.
It's quite hot out. About 85 degrees with very high humidity. I had the best bruschetta for lunch AND dinner. I'll have to post the recipe in my cooking section of the blog. It's sooooo good!
It's quite hot out. About 85 degrees with very high humidity. I had the best bruschetta for lunch AND dinner. I'll have to post the recipe in my cooking section of the blog. It's sooooo good!
Sunday, June 26, 2011
6-26-2011
We are certainly enjoying the new dock. Charlie and I sat on it yesterday morning and enjoyed reading the paper and chatting with canoers and kayakers going by.
Last evening Charlie made a fire on the riverbank and we toasted marshmallows and made smores. Then we all laid in the tent for a while. The kids and I were afraid to sleep down there, so we came up to the house around 8:30. Charlie spent the night in the tent. He heard various wildlife noises throughout the night and half-tail batted at his head thru the tent. Sorry I missed all that....not.
Last evening Charlie made a fire on the riverbank and we toasted marshmallows and made smores. Then we all laid in the tent for a while. The kids and I were afraid to sleep down there, so we came up to the house around 8:30. Charlie spent the night in the tent. He heard various wildlife noises throughout the night and half-tail batted at his head thru the tent. Sorry I missed all that....not.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
6-21-2011
Lots has been going on around here lately. Charlie had an interview last week for a carpentry instructor position. They called the next day to schedule a second interview for today. He feels both went very well and is relatively confident they may offer him the position. I've been doing a lot of praying for God's will to be done.If it's the right thing for our family, then I believe that's the direction we'll go. If he doesn't get the job, that just means God has a different plan for us. It's nerve wrecking, but I'm very proud of Charlie.
Just before Charlie left for the interview today he heard a loud crash. The dead tree on our property fell down. It was a bit of a focal point near the river when we were looking at the property 6 years ago. Luke told us repeatedly at the time that the dead tree was his favorite thing about the property. It dead have a sort of barren beauty to it, especially in winter. When the river flooded in 2006, you could see where it pounded away at the tree base. I thought it would fall then, but it made it 5 more years. I took some pictures of it laying on the river bank. A branch from another tree got broken off in the shape of an "L" and I hope to do something crafty with it as a tribute to the dead tree. We think there's some symbolism/sig from God that it fell just before Charlie left for the iterview. But, we haven't figured out just what it was supposed to mean quite yet.
The kids are enjoying summer. They spent Sunday night at Mom & Dad's and all day yesterday at Knoeble's. Today they went swimming in the river after shopping for summer clothes at Sal Val. We got some good buys and came home with multiple bags for $36.00. Can't beat that!
Just before Charlie left for the interview today he heard a loud crash. The dead tree on our property fell down. It was a bit of a focal point near the river when we were looking at the property 6 years ago. Luke told us repeatedly at the time that the dead tree was his favorite thing about the property. It dead have a sort of barren beauty to it, especially in winter. When the river flooded in 2006, you could see where it pounded away at the tree base. I thought it would fall then, but it made it 5 more years. I took some pictures of it laying on the river bank. A branch from another tree got broken off in the shape of an "L" and I hope to do something crafty with it as a tribute to the dead tree. We think there's some symbolism/sig from God that it fell just before Charlie left for the iterview. But, we haven't figured out just what it was supposed to mean quite yet.
The kids are enjoying summer. They spent Sunday night at Mom & Dad's and all day yesterday at Knoeble's. Today they went swimming in the river after shopping for summer clothes at Sal Val. We got some good buys and came home with multiple bags for $36.00. Can't beat that!
Friday, June 10, 2011
6-10-2011
Just wanted to do a quick summary of the things we did for Lily's birthday this past Wednesday. She took in homemade chocolate chip cookies for her classmates. It was the last day of school and thus a half-day. I had a meeting at work and didn't get home until close to 3 pm. Once I got home, we all went to Chili's for dinner. Lily had nachoes. Then we came home and decorated her cake. She decided AFTER I already had the white icing on that she wanted the icing to be blue. So, I added pools of blue to the white and we put penguins on to look like they were swimming. It ended up okay and she was happy with it. Then, of course, we sang and she blew out the candles. Then she and I went to her final Girl Scout meeting where she received her gardening badge. Since we had already gotten her ears pierced as her gift, we didn't really get her anything else. I did give her a few pair of kneesocks with cats on them and some hair scrunchies and clips. All in all I think she had a pretty good day.
Monday, June 6, 2011
6-6-2011
We had a great weekend!
Lliy and I went to yard sales Saturday morning then went to the mall and got her ears pierced for her birthday. "It really hurt a lot" and she did tear up. Glad we did it early, instead of causing her pain on her actual birthday. Plus, she got to show off in school today.
Yesterday we washed the minivan and both work trucks. Then cleaned up the house. Very productive. Perfect weather. We watched the Sch. River Sojourners go past around 4 pm. Chatted with a few of them and enjoyed being river-side.
Last year when we had the dock intact we spent a whole lot more time at the river. This year we are getting a lot more work done, but have a lot less fun.
Yesterday we washed the minivan and both work trucks. Then cleaned up the house. Very productive. Perfect weather. We watched the Sch. River Sojourners go past around 4 pm. Chatted with a few of them and enjoyed being river-side.
Last year when we had the dock intact we spent a whole lot more time at the river. This year we are getting a lot more work done, but have a lot less fun.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
6-1-2011
Well, we've gone from record setting rains to record setting heat. Second day in the 90's. And we have a severe thunderstorm and tornado watch until 8 pm tonight.
Luke had field day today and I was concerned about the heat. He said a volunteer walked around squirting the kids with a water bottle.
Lily has her last Girl Scout meeting tonight. One more week and it's her birthday!
The pumpkins, zucchini, and squash we planted this past Saturday are up. I'm quite happy about that. Guess this heat is good for something after all. I cut lettuce that came up on it's own once already. It was getting ready to shoot up and go to seed. Hopefully, I cut it in time.
We brought 2 ice cream buckets of strawberries home from Mom and Dad's Monday. We've been having strawberry shortcake at least once a day since. I bought pound cakes at the Dollar Tree for $1 (duh) and they're perfect to use as shortcake.
Luke had field day today and I was concerned about the heat. He said a volunteer walked around squirting the kids with a water bottle.
Lily has her last Girl Scout meeting tonight. One more week and it's her birthday!
The pumpkins, zucchini, and squash we planted this past Saturday are up. I'm quite happy about that. Guess this heat is good for something after all. I cut lettuce that came up on it's own once already. It was getting ready to shoot up and go to seed. Hopefully, I cut it in time.
We brought 2 ice cream buckets of strawberries home from Mom and Dad's Monday. We've been having strawberry shortcake at least once a day since. I bought pound cakes at the Dollar Tree for $1 (duh) and they're perfect to use as shortcake.
Friday, May 27, 2011
5-27-2011
We've had some pretty severe weather blow through our area lately. A second tornado was confirmed in Mom & Dad's neck of the woods. Thank God they're fine and the damage occurred miles away from them. Very scary. And we aren't really accustomed to living with the threat of deadly weather. It certainly makes us stop and give thanks for what's important...and it's not material things.
No big plans going in to Memorial Day Weekend. Charlie has a meeting with customer's tomorrow. Sunday he has to help his dad with the annual trail run. Monday he has to hunker down and do paperwork. Busy, busy, busy.
The kids were supposed to have their final soccer game tomorrow morning, but it was cancelled due to lack of players. I learned quite a bit about the unpredictability of weather this soccer season.
I'm hoping to get the garden planted tomorrow morning. Finally. It's too hot to go out there this evening. We actually just turned on the air conditioning for the 1st time this season. I hate the heat!
Lily has a rash on most of her body. Not sure what that's all about. she had it on her face last weekend. I pulled a tick off Luke the other day. I called the pediatrician's office and they said to just put antibiotic ointment on the area, which is red. Ugh.
I'll be happy if we all make it through this long weekend safe and healthy!
No big plans going in to Memorial Day Weekend. Charlie has a meeting with customer's tomorrow. Sunday he has to help his dad with the annual trail run. Monday he has to hunker down and do paperwork. Busy, busy, busy.
The kids were supposed to have their final soccer game tomorrow morning, but it was cancelled due to lack of players. I learned quite a bit about the unpredictability of weather this soccer season.
I'm hoping to get the garden planted tomorrow morning. Finally. It's too hot to go out there this evening. We actually just turned on the air conditioning for the 1st time this season. I hate the heat!
Lily has a rash on most of her body. Not sure what that's all about. she had it on her face last weekend. I pulled a tick off Luke the other day. I called the pediatrician's office and they said to just put antibiotic ointment on the area, which is red. Ugh.
I'll be happy if we all make it through this long weekend safe and healthy!
Sunday, May 22, 2011
5-22-2011
Pretty quiet weekend around here. Well, for most of us. Poor little half tail had her surgery today to get fixed. She went this morning and came back this afternoon. She's still under the effects of the anesthesia. The kids let her out of the carrier and she's wobbling around the property. Poor little thing.
Charlie spent the day helping his dad prepare the trail for the Special Olympics race on their property next weekend.
Yesterday was perfect weather and we managed to get the whole property mowed. The sky was a gorgeous blue with lots of fluffy clouds. Very pretty and made more so by the lack of blue skies we've had around here lately.
Charlie spent the day helping his dad prepare the trail for the Special Olympics race on their property next weekend.
Yesterday was perfect weather and we managed to get the whole property mowed. The sky was a gorgeous blue with lots of fluffy clouds. Very pretty and made more so by the lack of blue skies we've had around here lately.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
5-19-2011
It's still raining here. It feels like this has been the rainiest spring we've had in a long time! The kids did not have soccer practice again this week. And it was actually supposed to be a game during practice time since the Saturday game was cancelled due to rain. As was the previous week's practice. Jeez.
The river is high, but not dangerously so. Hope it continues to be okay. My heart certainly goes out to all those effected by flooding along the Mississippi.
I went to the nursing home I'll be at next semester with the students to orient. Not a whole lot good to say about that experience. Long term care is not my thing.
Planning on making hamburgers for supper. It's Charlie & the kids' favorite meal. We need something to lift our spirits w/ all this dreary weather.
Lily & I went to our 1st Girl Scout Daisey mtg. last night. Neither one of us was overwhelmed w/ excitement. They colored name tags, then listened to a story, then colored a flower drawing. We're going every Wed. for the next 3 weeks. Hopefully, they were just starting us out slow.
The garden still isn't really planted. Just tomatoes, rosemary, bee balm, sage, parsley, & strawberries. i have lots of seed packs & basil plants to put in, but it's been too wet. Dad's planted enough for all of us, but I'd still like to get my own stuff in.
The river is high, but not dangerously so. Hope it continues to be okay. My heart certainly goes out to all those effected by flooding along the Mississippi.
I went to the nursing home I'll be at next semester with the students to orient. Not a whole lot good to say about that experience. Long term care is not my thing.
Planning on making hamburgers for supper. It's Charlie & the kids' favorite meal. We need something to lift our spirits w/ all this dreary weather.
Lily & I went to our 1st Girl Scout Daisey mtg. last night. Neither one of us was overwhelmed w/ excitement. They colored name tags, then listened to a story, then colored a flower drawing. We're going every Wed. for the next 3 weeks. Hopefully, they were just starting us out slow.
The garden still isn't really planted. Just tomatoes, rosemary, bee balm, sage, parsley, & strawberries. i have lots of seed packs & basil plants to put in, but it's been too wet. Dad's planted enough for all of us, but I'd still like to get my own stuff in.
Saturday, May 14, 2011
5-14-2011
Cool and drizzley all day today. Absolutely perfect weather for gardening and yard work. The kids and I weeded and turned over the soil in the garden. Luke was a great help. Lily, not so much. I swear she was channeling Jill and Rachel. She didn't want to get dirty. It was too cool. It was too much work. She didn't know what were plants and what were weeds. Finally, after about 10 minutes, I sent her into the house to clean her room.
I spent much of the day mowing lawn. The grass was so high and damp I had to go in 1st gear. Charlie wasn't here except in the morning and at lunch. He rented a Dingo and was loading up huge tree pieces to bring here. The plan is to cut them in to managable pieces for the outdoor furnace when he has more time.
Soccer practice was cancelled this morning due to the rain/dampness. The kids didn't seem to mind at all. They made me very proud, playing together nicely while I was out mowing.
Hoping to plant the garden tomorrow, if it doesn't rain. Mom & Dad have almost all their plants planted, so I'm not even sure why I'm bothering. Dad has been buying seeds by the POUND for months now. Barring a catastrophe, they should have enough produce to feed a 3rd world country.
I spent much of the day mowing lawn. The grass was so high and damp I had to go in 1st gear. Charlie wasn't here except in the morning and at lunch. He rented a Dingo and was loading up huge tree pieces to bring here. The plan is to cut them in to managable pieces for the outdoor furnace when he has more time.
Soccer practice was cancelled this morning due to the rain/dampness. The kids didn't seem to mind at all. They made me very proud, playing together nicely while I was out mowing.
Hoping to plant the garden tomorrow, if it doesn't rain. Mom & Dad have almost all their plants planted, so I'm not even sure why I'm bothering. Dad has been buying seeds by the POUND for months now. Barring a catastrophe, they should have enough produce to feed a 3rd world country.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
5-10-2011 Recap of Mother's Day
This past Sunday was Mother's Day. Luke and Lily each had a great handmade card for me from school. Lily had past gifts nicely arranged on the kitchen table for me Sunday morning.
We did some grocery shopping at WalMart and Sam's midmorning. We had nachoes for lunch. After lunch, Charlie and the kids went to his parents to drop a few construction things off. I stayed home and read a book outside on my rocking chair with a nice glass of wine beside me. It was heavenly.
When Charlie and the kids got home around supper time he informed me that he found out half way thru the visit that Rachel has bedbugs. Charlie and the kids stayed outside while I Googled what to do.
We did some grocery shopping at WalMart and Sam's midmorning. We had nachoes for lunch. After lunch, Charlie and the kids went to his parents to drop a few construction things off. I stayed home and read a book outside on my rocking chair with a nice glass of wine beside me. It was heavenly.
When Charlie and the kids got home around supper time he informed me that he found out half way thru the visit that Rachel has bedbugs. Charlie and the kids stayed outside while I Googled what to do.
Saturday, May 7, 2011
5-7-2011
Today was the river regatta. Charlie raced and took 3rd in his class. The trophy is a coffee mug which he is quite pleased with. He said 1st and 2nd place got sun visors he'd never wear, so 3rd place was best. We watched from the dock steps and cheered him on.
Note the goose floating along with him. Too funny.
The kids had their 2nd soccer game this morning. No major injuries, so I'm considering it a success. As long as they get exercise and fresh air and no one gets hurt, I think it's a major victory. I have no idea what the score was. I don't pay attention to that. Luke did kick in a goal for our team. I think it may have been the only goal we got. I took a bunch of pictures. It was great weather and so nice to be outside enjoying it.
The kids had their 2nd soccer game this morning. No major injuries, so I'm considering it a success. As long as they get exercise and fresh air and no one gets hurt, I think it's a major victory. I have no idea what the score was. I don't pay attention to that. Luke did kick in a goal for our team. I think it may have been the only goal we got. I took a bunch of pictures. It was great weather and so nice to be outside enjoying it.
Thursday, May 5, 2011
5-5-2011
I got my hair cut today. Nothing too drastic, layers and bangs. I pulled it up into a ponytail on top of my head, just to see if I could. Lily looks at me and says, "Wow, Mom! You look like a hip young teenager!" Made my day!
Tonight we're going to school to play "The Brain Game." I think it's like Jeopardy for kids. Should be a hoot.
Tonight we're going to school to play "The Brain Game." I think it's like Jeopardy for kids. Should be a hoot.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
4-30-2011
The kids had their 1st soccer game today. They all did very well. Especially considering they only had 1 practice.
The weather is a sunny 65. Perfect for weeding and mowing and hanging out laundry and playing outside.
Life is good!
The weather is a sunny 65. Perfect for weeding and mowing and hanging out laundry and playing outside.
Life is good!Sunday, April 24, 2011
4-24-2011 Happy Easter
Happy Easter! We had an absolutely gorgeous Easter day here. The Easter Bunny brought the kids new bikes. They're big kid bikes. I don't think either one of the kids is particularly thrilled with them. For 1 thing, they have hand brakes. For another thing, Lily can barely touch the ground with her toes. Charlie assures me they'll both grow into them in about a month.
Lunch was ham, mashed potaoes and salad. Unfortunately, we ate a bunch of cut out sugar cookies for breakfast and through out the morning. No guests, just us.
Dad came around 1 pm and took the kids to their place. All morning the kids couldn't wait for Dad to get here. I think they have big plans for P&J's. Incidently, they took their old bikes and new bikes along with them.
So now it's just me and Charlie at home. We mowed the lawn and cleaned out the barn and cleaned out the summer kitchen. Charlie declared it the best Easter ever....apparently getting work done ranks higher than getting candy with him.
This Easter was entirely candy-free!
Lunch was ham, mashed potaoes and salad. Unfortunately, we ate a bunch of cut out sugar cookies for breakfast and through out the morning. No guests, just us.
Dad came around 1 pm and took the kids to their place. All morning the kids couldn't wait for Dad to get here. I think they have big plans for P&J's. Incidently, they took their old bikes and new bikes along with them.
So now it's just me and Charlie at home. We mowed the lawn and cleaned out the barn and cleaned out the summer kitchen. Charlie declared it the best Easter ever....apparently getting work done ranks higher than getting candy with him.
This Easter was entirely candy-free!
Saturday, April 23, 2011
4-23-2011
Rained here most of the day, leading the kids to conduct a few indoor egg hunts. We also went to the library and stocked up on some new DVDs and books.
Charlie rearranged our bedroom this afternoon at my request. Evey time I move things around he says it's the worst set up he's ever seen. We'll see how he likes his own work....I like it fine.
Easter is tomorrow. No plans to have anyone over at our place. Mom is working. Dad is coming to get the kids around 2-ish since Charlie and I are both working Monday and the kids are off from school. I may make some ham since I got a good buy and bought 2 at the grocery store earlier in the week. I went to get more today and they were down to the bare bones.
Charlie rearranged our bedroom this afternoon at my request. Evey time I move things around he says it's the worst set up he's ever seen. We'll see how he likes his own work....I like it fine.
Easter is tomorrow. No plans to have anyone over at our place. Mom is working. Dad is coming to get the kids around 2-ish since Charlie and I are both working Monday and the kids are off from school. I may make some ham since I got a good buy and bought 2 at the grocery store earlier in the week. I went to get more today and they were down to the bare bones.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
4-21-2011
Last day of school before Easter break for the kids. Lily's class had a party with an egg hunt. Luke's class wasn't allowed a party, just a treat bag.
I took Luke for sneakers once they got home. He's been wearing a pair that's too big and come off his feet during gym class. Suppose buying shoes that fit is money well spent.
There's a frost warning for tonight. We had the outdoor furnace and oil burner off during the day, but fired it up for tonight. Luckily, I don't have anything planted in the garden just yet. Truth of the matter is, I haven't even done any work in the garden yet. We've been having so much rain, it's been too wet to really dig in (pun intended). There are lots of flowers blooming around the property. Guess we'll have to see how they fair with the frost.
We may meet up with Mom and Dad tomorrow at Green Dragon Farmers' Market. They go every year on Good Friday. Sometimes we meet them there, sometimes not. The forecast is for a chance of snow or rain in the morning, so I'm leaning heavily towards stying right here at home.
I took Luke for sneakers once they got home. He's been wearing a pair that's too big and come off his feet during gym class. Suppose buying shoes that fit is money well spent.
There's a frost warning for tonight. We had the outdoor furnace and oil burner off during the day, but fired it up for tonight. Luckily, I don't have anything planted in the garden just yet. Truth of the matter is, I haven't even done any work in the garden yet. We've been having so much rain, it's been too wet to really dig in (pun intended). There are lots of flowers blooming around the property. Guess we'll have to see how they fair with the frost.
We may meet up with Mom and Dad tomorrow at Green Dragon Farmers' Market. They go every year on Good Friday. Sometimes we meet them there, sometimes not. The forecast is for a chance of snow or rain in the morning, so I'm leaning heavily towards stying right here at home.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
4-16-2011 Party for Charlie
Mom and Dad stopped in this afternoon and brought along a chocolate cake from Wally World for Charlie's upcoming birthday. It was quite good and we all enjoyed it. They were in our neck of the woods for dad to pick up a food dehydrator at Cabela's.
It's been monsoon-like conditions all day here. Just as P&J were leaving our power went out. It came back on a few minutes later and has been on ever since. Hopefully, the river will not flood.
Perfect day for comfort foods. I made a batch of red beans and ham in the crock pot and ham and beans on the stove.
I think I prefer rainy days to sunny days a lot of the time. There's something to be said for snuggling up with a good book while the wind rattles the windows and the rain comes down in buckets. I loved being snuggled up safe and sound inside.
It's been monsoon-like conditions all day here. Just as P&J were leaving our power went out. It came back on a few minutes later and has been on ever since. Hopefully, the river will not flood.
Perfect day for comfort foods. I made a batch of red beans and ham in the crock pot and ham and beans on the stove.
I think I prefer rainy days to sunny days a lot of the time. There's something to be said for snuggling up with a good book while the wind rattles the windows and the rain comes down in buckets. I loved being snuggled up safe and sound inside.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Monday, April 11, 2011
4-11-2011 Updates on Us
Charlie is still not back to 100% healthy. Although, really, is he ever 100% healthy? But, he's still having vertigo and lethargy and blocked ears.
Lily seems to be 95% back to baseline. She had a coughing spell last night, but I think it was because she was bundled up under too many blankets and got too hot.
Luke is fine. As am I. Knock on wood.
Both kids came home on Friday with great report cards. We celebrated with McDonald's for supper.
Today we reached a high of about 80 degrees. I thought it felt too hot. Summer is my least favorite season and today felt a lot like summer. Tomorrow we're supposed to have rain and temp's in the 50's. That's more like it.
I'm hoping to have a job interview tomorrow at St. Joe's for a patient outcome coordinator position. It's full-time day shift Monday through Friday, no weekends or holidays. I strongly believe the outcome is in God's hands. I have mixed feelings about working full-time. On the other hand, it's pretty nerve wracking knowing Charlie only has work lined up for the next week or so. And we've been living that way for the past couple of years. I feel like sooner or later that work luck is going to run out. So, I'll interview and see how it goes.
Kids' spring soccer should start this week or next. I think tomorrow will be rained out. Neither kid is really excited about starting soccer. I think that will change once they actually start playing.
Charlie and I celebrated our 9th wedding anniversary Saturday. Kathy kept the kids for the day and we ran around doing shopping errands. I made us fabulous hamburgers for lunch. We both agreed they were better than anything we would have had at a restaurant. We went to the library and got some good books and DVDs to enjoy.
Lily seems to be 95% back to baseline. She had a coughing spell last night, but I think it was because she was bundled up under too many blankets and got too hot.
Luke is fine. As am I. Knock on wood.
Both kids came home on Friday with great report cards. We celebrated with McDonald's for supper.
Today we reached a high of about 80 degrees. I thought it felt too hot. Summer is my least favorite season and today felt a lot like summer. Tomorrow we're supposed to have rain and temp's in the 50's. That's more like it.
I'm hoping to have a job interview tomorrow at St. Joe's for a patient outcome coordinator position. It's full-time day shift Monday through Friday, no weekends or holidays. I strongly believe the outcome is in God's hands. I have mixed feelings about working full-time. On the other hand, it's pretty nerve wracking knowing Charlie only has work lined up for the next week or so. And we've been living that way for the past couple of years. I feel like sooner or later that work luck is going to run out. So, I'll interview and see how it goes.
Kids' spring soccer should start this week or next. I think tomorrow will be rained out. Neither kid is really excited about starting soccer. I think that will change once they actually start playing.
Charlie and I celebrated our 9th wedding anniversary Saturday. Kathy kept the kids for the day and we ran around doing shopping errands. I made us fabulous hamburgers for lunch. We both agreed they were better than anything we would have had at a restaurant. We went to the library and got some good books and DVDs to enjoy.
Saturday, April 2, 2011
4-2-2011 Carpenter Down....Again
Charlie has bronchitis and a severe ear infection. He went to convenient care on Friday and started a Z-pack. He feels a bit better, but is still pretty sick. And he's none too pleasant to be around either.
Lily is also sick with a cold. Two nights ago she coughed till she puked. Several times. She had her last hockey game today. P&J came down to watch. Then Dad and Luke cut and hauled wood to the outdoor furnace. Mom, Lily, and I did some shopping after having Chinese for lunch. As soon as we got back to the house and P&J left, Lily snuggled up in my bed a fell right to sleep. She looks and sounds pretty rough. Poor little thing.
Luke has been very good about keeping himself entertained. He's currently playing Wii. Earlier, he and I were outside launching clothespins from the clothesline and attempting to chop down sapling trees around the property with a sharp ax Dad left behind. i put an end to that rather quickly.
I'm praying Charlie and Lily get better quickly and Luke and I stay healthy. We completely missed playing April Fool's jokes on each other yesterday. First time we've missed it.
Lily is also sick with a cold. Two nights ago she coughed till she puked. Several times. She had her last hockey game today. P&J came down to watch. Then Dad and Luke cut and hauled wood to the outdoor furnace. Mom, Lily, and I did some shopping after having Chinese for lunch. As soon as we got back to the house and P&J left, Lily snuggled up in my bed a fell right to sleep. She looks and sounds pretty rough. Poor little thing.
Luke has been very good about keeping himself entertained. He's currently playing Wii. Earlier, he and I were outside launching clothespins from the clothesline and attempting to chop down sapling trees around the property with a sharp ax Dad left behind. i put an end to that rather quickly.
I'm praying Charlie and Lily get better quickly and Luke and I stay healthy. We completely missed playing April Fool's jokes on each other yesterday. First time we've missed it.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
3-23-2011
The forecast yesterday was calling for snow/sleet for today. Thankfully, we had just a hint of snow on the grass this morning and nothing on the roads. Work and school as usual. They are calling for a dusting again tonight. We were spoiled by a few mild days with sun and warmth. Now this cold, rainy, dreary weather is rather hard to take. Spring must be around the corner.
We had a family meeting dockside last evening after supper. Charlie called the meeting. Probably because the dock is on it's side, literally, since the high waters a few weeks ago. We'll probably need to take apart the current dock and rebuild. I say "we", but of course mean Charlie. Disassembling a dock is not really my thing. And I can just imagine how the kids would be, surely more trouble than help. But we all love to be down at the dock and we definitely would like it accessible as soon as possible.
We had a family meeting dockside last evening after supper. Charlie called the meeting. Probably because the dock is on it's side, literally, since the high waters a few weeks ago. We'll probably need to take apart the current dock and rebuild. I say "we", but of course mean Charlie. Disassembling a dock is not really my thing. And I can just imagine how the kids would be, surely more trouble than help. But we all love to be down at the dock and we definitely would like it accessible as soon as possible.
Friday, March 18, 2011
3-18-2011 Carpenter Down....With the Flu
Charlie is sick as a dog with the flu. He's been in bed sleeping all day after being awake quite a bit during the night with "stomach issues" to put it politely.
It's an absolutely gorgeous spring day here. 73 degrees and sunny. I ran errands this morning and parked at the far end of the parking lot each place I went. so nice to have the sun hitting my face.
Still lots of concern for all the people suffering in Japan. And added concern about their nuclear power plants. Very tragic.
No big plans for the weekend. Lily has deck hockey tomorrow morning. Dad offered to come in the afternoon and help us haul wood to the outdoor furnace. I don't really want him exposed to all our sickness, so we'll probably pass on that.
Last night for St. Patrick's Day I made mashed potatoes, ham, and cabbage. Then we had shamrock shakes. Lily also had vanilla ice cream with green food die mixed in to make it festive. We watched a movie we got from the library on st. Patrick. It was very good and we even let the kids stay up until 8:30 to finish it.
Tonight's supper to be determined. I have coconut ice cream and fresh pineapple, so I'm thinking we might try pina coladas, minus the booze.
It's an absolutely gorgeous spring day here. 73 degrees and sunny. I ran errands this morning and parked at the far end of the parking lot each place I went. so nice to have the sun hitting my face.
Still lots of concern for all the people suffering in Japan. And added concern about their nuclear power plants. Very tragic.
No big plans for the weekend. Lily has deck hockey tomorrow morning. Dad offered to come in the afternoon and help us haul wood to the outdoor furnace. I don't really want him exposed to all our sickness, so we'll probably pass on that.
Last night for St. Patrick's Day I made mashed potatoes, ham, and cabbage. Then we had shamrock shakes. Lily also had vanilla ice cream with green food die mixed in to make it festive. We watched a movie we got from the library on st. Patrick. It was very good and we even let the kids stay up until 8:30 to finish it.
Tonight's supper to be determined. I have coconut ice cream and fresh pineapple, so I'm thinking we might try pina coladas, minus the booze.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
3-15-2011
Poor Luke had the GI virus that Lily had last weekend. He woke up at 0130 Saturday into Sunday vomiting. Then he just laid around the house Sunday. He did fine yesterday back at school. I started feeling queasy yesterday afternoon and felt pretty awful all through the evening. Now I feel okay. Charlie started feeling achy yesterday. I just called him at work to check in on him and he said he's still achy, but no worse than yesterday.
We went to C&K's on Saturday for a visit. Kathy and I made Irish Potato Candy. We are quite proud of ourselves because it turned out very well.
Last week the river rose to about 15 feet. Our dock got washed up the bank onto the dock steps. Charlie thinks he can fix it once the water goes back down.
At the same time we were having all the rain, Japan had an 8.9 earthquake and tsunami. It's absolutely heartbreaking to watch the news. Now the concern is that the nuclear power plants in that area have started to meltdown. My heart and prayers go out to all involved.
We went to C&K's on Saturday for a visit. Kathy and I made Irish Potato Candy. We are quite proud of ourselves because it turned out very well.
Last week the river rose to about 15 feet. Our dock got washed up the bank onto the dock steps. Charlie thinks he can fix it once the water goes back down.
At the same time we were having all the rain, Japan had an 8.9 earthquake and tsunami. It's absolutely heartbreaking to watch the news. Now the concern is that the nuclear power plants in that area have started to meltdown. My heart and prayers go out to all involved.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
3-10-2011 It's Raining, It's Pouring....I even did some snoring
We are experiencing some heavy rains. Hopefully, the river won't flood.
I have a cold. Probably got it as a result of being run down taking care of Lily last weekend. I came home from work yesterday at lunch and spent the rest of the day in bed. I felt a bit better today, but did a whole lot of nothing all day long. The dark, rainy day certainly didn't help my energy level.
Hopefully, no one else in the house gets this cold. Must be said, that I've been doing pretty good staying healthy, eating 5 different colored fruits and veggies a day.
I have a cold. Probably got it as a result of being run down taking care of Lily last weekend. I came home from work yesterday at lunch and spent the rest of the day in bed. I felt a bit better today, but did a whole lot of nothing all day long. The dark, rainy day certainly didn't help my energy level.
Hopefully, no one else in the house gets this cold. Must be said, that I've been doing pretty good staying healthy, eating 5 different colored fruits and veggies a day.
Saturday, March 5, 2011
3-5-2011 L-O-N-G Night with Lily
Poor little Lily-bell woke us up at 0130 by vomiting in our bathroom. All over the floor to be precise. Charlie, bless his soul, cleaned up the mess. I helped Lily shower and then brought her into bed with me. We watched a DVD on the laptop and she got up a few times with diarrhea. I think she has pink eye as well.
No hockey today. No visit to Grandma K. either. We will be home. Wallowing in our germiness.
No hockey today. No visit to Grandma K. either. We will be home. Wallowing in our germiness.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
3-3-2011
Update on the "being a patient" post....I had the abdominal ultrasound 2 weeks ago and it showed cysts on my ovaries, polyps on my gallbladder, and benign lesions on my liver. As I was watching the ultrasound being done on a screen in the room, I saw the liver lesions and got very scared. I had to wait several hours to talk to the doctor's office. They were some of the longest hours of my life! In my mind, I had Mom and Dad moved in here, taking the kids to and from school and me to and from chemo. appointments. I was sure it was ovarian cancer.
Thank God, all findings appear to be non-issues. I saw my GYN a few days ago and he told me he is "absolutely sure" the ovarian cysts are not the source of my abd. discomfort and don't require any intervention. He also doesn't think the gallbladder polyps or liver lesions are an issue.
So....at this point, I do nothing. the abdominal discomfort is something I can live with and I don't want to pursue this with all kinds of diagnostics. Especially knowing the end result may very well be a mystery.
The whole thing has served as a reminder of how very fortunate we are to have good health. It is absolutely something we take for granted every day.
Thank God, all findings appear to be non-issues. I saw my GYN a few days ago and he told me he is "absolutely sure" the ovarian cysts are not the source of my abd. discomfort and don't require any intervention. He also doesn't think the gallbladder polyps or liver lesions are an issue.
So....at this point, I do nothing. the abdominal discomfort is something I can live with and I don't want to pursue this with all kinds of diagnostics. Especially knowing the end result may very well be a mystery.
The whole thing has served as a reminder of how very fortunate we are to have good health. It is absolutely something we take for granted every day.
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