Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Delayed Again
I was just checking on the flight information before we left to go and get Carl. He's delayed an hour. It is just as well. I can't find Eva's shoes...AGAIN!
Worn Out
Yesterday, in combination with the last week on my own, completely wore me out. I knew it was bad when Caleb's speech pathologist showed up this morning and I completely forgot. We were still in our pajamas. I decided we could skip swim lessons this morning. I'm just not up for it. We're going to take it easy today until Daddy comes home (at 6:05pm!).
Here is what we did yesterday:
5:00am- Signed up Caleb for another round of swim lessons.
5:05am-Back to bed
7:00am-Rise and Shine--thanks to Eva.
7:30am-Caleb joins us.
8:00am-10:00am-We try to get everything together for swim lessons. I can't find Eva's Dora shoes...again! We eat some breakfast. I try to keep the kids from beating each other up.
10:00am-11:30am-Swim lessons at the Y.
11:45am-12:00pm-Get lunch.
12:00pm-3:00pmAshley is here! I pass off the kids and get started on a mountain of chores and errands that include: fixing my glasses that Caleb broke on Sunday, preparing my hand knits for competition (ironing, starching, blocking, etc...), checking email, blogging, talking to Carl on the phone, eating my own lunch, getting to Sonic for happy hour, picking up some yarn I had ordered, drying my swimsuit, laundry, and drinking a Pepsi.
3:00pm-4:30pm Eva is napping so all I need to do is keep Caleb occupied. He's good to go with playing on the computer and then jumping on the trampoline while I get the stuff ready to go to the fair and also a swim lesson bag for Eva.
4:30pm-load up the kids. I drop Caleb off at a babysitter (to avoid the inevitable Y meltdown when he realizes that it is not his turn for lessons) and then take Eva to the Y. Eva screams the whole way because she wants to go to the babysitter's house. I realize she hasn't eaten anything since a snack before her nap so we stop at BK.
5:15pm-6:30pm-Swim lessons. Eva did pretty well. There are 8 kids in the class--which is way too many, in my opinion. I'm glad I didn't sign up Caleb for evening classes. They are limited to 5 kids during the day sessions. It was nice having a kid that didn't freak out at every little thing.
6:30pm-Pick up Caleb from the babysitter. Call Wendy. She was nice enough to keep the kids occupied while I dropped off my county fair entries.
6:45pm-drop off kids at Wendy's house.
6:50pm-7:50pm- Drive all the way to the other side of town to enter my knitting. I didn't get a good look at my competition. I guess I'll have to wait until tomorrow to see how my items stack up.
8:00pm-8:30pm- Pick up kids from Wendy's and they have a popsicle.
8:30pm-8:45pm-Convince the kids it really is bedtime.
9:00pm-12:00am Come upstairs to read some blogs, plan my state fair strategy, knit and watch some tv. I am finally wound down enough to go to sleep.
Here is what we did yesterday:
5:00am- Signed up Caleb for another round of swim lessons.
5:05am-Back to bed
7:00am-Rise and Shine--thanks to Eva.
7:30am-Caleb joins us.
8:00am-10:00am-We try to get everything together for swim lessons. I can't find Eva's Dora shoes...again! We eat some breakfast. I try to keep the kids from beating each other up.
10:00am-11:30am-Swim lessons at the Y.
11:45am-12:00pm-Get lunch.
12:00pm-3:00pmAshley is here! I pass off the kids and get started on a mountain of chores and errands that include: fixing my glasses that Caleb broke on Sunday, preparing my hand knits for competition (ironing, starching, blocking, etc...), checking email, blogging, talking to Carl on the phone, eating my own lunch, getting to Sonic for happy hour, picking up some yarn I had ordered, drying my swimsuit, laundry, and drinking a Pepsi.
3:00pm-4:30pm Eva is napping so all I need to do is keep Caleb occupied. He's good to go with playing on the computer and then jumping on the trampoline while I get the stuff ready to go to the fair and also a swim lesson bag for Eva.
4:30pm-load up the kids. I drop Caleb off at a babysitter (to avoid the inevitable Y meltdown when he realizes that it is not his turn for lessons) and then take Eva to the Y. Eva screams the whole way because she wants to go to the babysitter's house. I realize she hasn't eaten anything since a snack before her nap so we stop at BK.
5:15pm-6:30pm-Swim lessons. Eva did pretty well. There are 8 kids in the class--which is way too many, in my opinion. I'm glad I didn't sign up Caleb for evening classes. They are limited to 5 kids during the day sessions. It was nice having a kid that didn't freak out at every little thing.
6:30pm-Pick up Caleb from the babysitter. Call Wendy. She was nice enough to keep the kids occupied while I dropped off my county fair entries.
6:45pm-drop off kids at Wendy's house.
6:50pm-7:50pm- Drive all the way to the other side of town to enter my knitting. I didn't get a good look at my competition. I guess I'll have to wait until tomorrow to see how my items stack up.
8:00pm-8:30pm- Pick up kids from Wendy's and they have a popsicle.
8:30pm-8:45pm-Convince the kids it really is bedtime.
9:00pm-12:00am Come upstairs to read some blogs, plan my state fair strategy, knit and watch some tv. I am finally wound down enough to go to sleep.
Monday, July 30, 2007
County Fair Entries
I have five of my six county fair entries ready to go. There was just no way I was going to finish the sixth (a crocheted doily) in time. In fact, a couple of these are last minute things because what I had originally planned wasn't going to be done in time. So, here we are.
Clockwise from left to right:
1. Blue Cardigan. I decided I love my Reefer too much to leave it at the fairgrounds. Besides, I want to wear it to the American Idol concert on Friday night. I think Sanjaya will like it! ;)
2. Toddler sweater. I made this a long time ago but never seamed it up until a few months ago. It was meant for Caleb but now it is too small. It looks good on Eva. It is made with Bernat Denim yarns--which I love!
3. Child's Hat from Last Minute Knitted Gifts.
4. One of my ornaments. I had an assortment of ornaments in the State Fair last year but none in the county.
5. Hederas. These socks won me the $25 gift certificate last year at the State Fair. They weren't ready for the county so I'm entering them this year. My state fair socks for this year are not even close to being done.
Well, that's it. They are going to the fairgrounds tonight and I should know on Wednesday how they did.
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Lizard Ridge---Here I Come!
I just won an eBay auction for with more than enough assorted Noro Kureyon yarn to make this afghan. After shipping each skein is going to cost just over $5.While I was shopping yesterday, I thought I'd check out the sellers other auctions and I snatched up some of this Katia Mexico.
This I got for just over $3.50 a ball. I've never worked with this yarn before but I loved the colors, the price, and the name. Carl called this morning during one of Caleb's meltdowns. It was so loud and violent that I couldn't talk with him and I told him I'd call him back when it was over. I think he was feeling sorry for me because when I told him about all the money I've spent on yarn in the past two days he didn't seem too concerned. I have been warning him that I wanted to get yarn for Lizard Ridge and it would be a substantial sum so when I told him I got it for over $3 off per skein I think he was rather pleased.
While I'm on the subject of Carl...he's having a good time in France. He's at Mont St. Michel today and is only slightly disappointed in the touristy-ness of it. He gets home on Tuesday night. It will certainly be great to have him back at home! Eva's been super cranky today (Caleb has been his normal self---ticking time bomb) and has a bit of a fever. Thankfully, she's down for a nap at the moment. I'm going to take the rest of this quiet time I have (Caleb's watching Max & Ruby) to lie down. Happy Sunday everyone!
Saturday, July 28, 2007
Hyena Cart
I was blog surfing today and a few different bloggers mentioned Hyena Cart. I've never seen this before. I've browsed a bit and found some cute things but I don't think it will be replacing my love of all things Etsy anytime soon.
Check it out.
Check it out.
Blue Cardigan
It seems I have a case of finish-itis (don't try to say that word out loud without the dash!). I actually had this blue cardigan finished a few weeks ago but it needed the ends woven in and to be blocked. I'm really happy with the way it turned out. It seems that I can get a lot of knitting stuff done after the kids go to bed when I neglect every other thing that I need to do around the house--like take out the trash, pick up the toys, put away laundry, etc...
The pattern "Marnie" is from the book Hot Knits. It has all over cables and in the pattern in calls for them to all be twisted the same way. I thought this looked a little lame so I alternated the twists every other repeat so it looks like it is creeping up (or down, as it were) the cardi. It is a shame that I really stink at photography and can't get the details of the stitches to show up. Maybe I need to take a class?
The other thing I changed about the pattern is I added the attached i-cord edge all the way around. It gives it a nice finished look and with that I think I have avoided adding the one button at the top. Having a one button enclosure just makes the bosoms look bigger and that is a feature I just don't need.
The yarn I used is the Lily Chin Chelsea that I purchased from Threads. I really can't stand this yarn and I'm glad to be done knitting with it. The feel just wasn't right. But, it does knit up into a nice fabric and it feels better after being washed.
I had a little bit of a dilemma but I'm pretty sure that I know what I'm going to do. I can only enter this or the Reefer into the fair--not both. I only signed up for one adult sweater because I wasn't sure I was going to be able to finish the Reefer in time. Now that it is finished, I have the option of entering that one instead. Here is why I'm thinking I won't enter Reefer--it just doesn't look that great when it isn't on a person. I don't know if the judge will be able to appreciate it if it is just lying on some table. The cardigan is much more straightforward and has some cables for added interest. Plus, I can't really wear the blue cardi right now but I can wear the Reefer.
The pattern "Marnie" is from the book Hot Knits. It has all over cables and in the pattern in calls for them to all be twisted the same way. I thought this looked a little lame so I alternated the twists every other repeat so it looks like it is creeping up (or down, as it were) the cardi. It is a shame that I really stink at photography and can't get the details of the stitches to show up. Maybe I need to take a class?The other thing I changed about the pattern is I added the attached i-cord edge all the way around. It gives it a nice finished look and with that I think I have avoided adding the one button at the top. Having a one button enclosure just makes the bosoms look bigger and that is a feature I just don't need.
The yarn I used is the Lily Chin Chelsea that I purchased from Threads. I really can't stand this yarn and I'm glad to be done knitting with it. The feel just wasn't right. But, it does knit up into a nice fabric and it feels better after being washed.
I had a little bit of a dilemma but I'm pretty sure that I know what I'm going to do. I can only enter this or the Reefer into the fair--not both. I only signed up for one adult sweater because I wasn't sure I was going to be able to finish the Reefer in time. Now that it is finished, I have the option of entering that one instead. Here is why I'm thinking I won't enter Reefer--it just doesn't look that great when it isn't on a person. I don't know if the judge will be able to appreciate it if it is just lying on some table. The cardigan is much more straightforward and has some cables for added interest. Plus, I can't really wear the blue cardi right now but I can wear the Reefer.
Friday, July 27, 2007
Reefer Revealed
It's over. Done. Finito. This is probably my most favorite thing I've ever finished. The color is great. It feels really great on...and it fits!
The pattern was very well written and there were no mistakes to my knowledge. I used Knit Picks Shine (color Reef, of course!). This is definitely for an intermediate knitter. There was a lot of shaping involved and some tricky construction. I had to trust the pattern when knitting the fronts because the schematics weren't making sense to me (they do now that I see the whole sweater) so I kind of just knit the pattern and hoped for the best. The ruffle edge about did me end there at the end. You think you are about finished and then they tack that on for you to do...not to mention the almost 50 inches worth of belt that gets wrapped around and ties. Just the ruffle around the bottom took 1 1/2 skeins. The sleeves were my favorite part to knit. So quick! I think once I forget about how long that ruffle takes I might want to make another one in a different color.
My photographer is out of the country so these in the mirror shots will have to do. In anticipation of finishing the sweater I actually went to Target today to buy a full length mirror so I could do this. All for you, loyal readers! I'm thinking this will look really cute with my black shirt and some black capris. Totally.
Are you now wishing I hadn't bought the full length mirror? I'm starting to question my judgment. If I'm not enough of a glutton for punishment...I call this next shot "Expecting".
Not that kind of expecting! Hello? Infertile Myrtle here. More like expecting a BLUE RIBBON!
Thursday, July 26, 2007
What Was I Smoking?
The Reefer Sweater is only 2 rows (plus one LONG cast off) away from completion now. I got two rows finished last night and it felt like I was knitting forever! Those 400+ stitches get increased a couple of times to make the ruffle and I'm pretty sure I have 10,000 stitches on my needles (okay, closer to 500). Maybe tonight I'll finish it?
In other "what was I smoking" fashion, I took the kids to the Omaha Zoo yesterday. By myself. Probably not one of my best ideas. We went to the aquarium and that was it. We had to leave because there were a bunch of cool inflatable things to bounce in/climb on/slide down and the lines to get on those were really, really long. My kids really, really don't know how to wait in line without pitching a major fit and I didn't have Caleb's "WAIT" card with me (not that it does that much good at this time--I'm optimistic that it will someday). So, we left. I did get them some blow pops at the gas station so I'd have some quiet for the drive home. That worked pretty well.
On the way to the zoo they slept the whole way! That was awesome because I was planning on stopping at the outlet malls (I have some super sweet coupons). They slept in the car and I shopped. No need to worry! It was a sidewalk sale. I only had to go about 15 feet from the car so left it running and they slept the whole time. Sweet! I scored 2 skirts (light blue/pastel stripey and a black one with a lacy edging) from Van Heusen and a pair of black heels from Bass. I spent $33. TOTAL! Woohoo for me. The only bad news is that the kids did not want to go to bed last night. Too much napping can be a bad thing. They did go to bed eventually so it wasn't all bad.
I'm not sure this is a "what was I smoking" item...yet. I bought a swimsuit online. This could spell disaster. It was only $15 and I can return it if it is horrible. I'm just spending a lot of time in my suit lately and I'd like to have a backup since I'll be swimming twice a day next week.
I got to talk with Carl yesterday. He's in France and was REALLY tired! We only got to talk for a few minutes because I could tell he wanted to go to bed. It was 2pm our time and he said he only slept about an hour total on all his flights. It was 9pm there so he should have been able to get a full night of sleep before his meetings today.
In other "what was I smoking" fashion, I took the kids to the Omaha Zoo yesterday. By myself. Probably not one of my best ideas. We went to the aquarium and that was it. We had to leave because there were a bunch of cool inflatable things to bounce in/climb on/slide down and the lines to get on those were really, really long. My kids really, really don't know how to wait in line without pitching a major fit and I didn't have Caleb's "WAIT" card with me (not that it does that much good at this time--I'm optimistic that it will someday). So, we left. I did get them some blow pops at the gas station so I'd have some quiet for the drive home. That worked pretty well.
On the way to the zoo they slept the whole way! That was awesome because I was planning on stopping at the outlet malls (I have some super sweet coupons). They slept in the car and I shopped. No need to worry! It was a sidewalk sale. I only had to go about 15 feet from the car so left it running and they slept the whole time. Sweet! I scored 2 skirts (light blue/pastel stripey and a black one with a lacy edging) from Van Heusen and a pair of black heels from Bass. I spent $33. TOTAL! Woohoo for me. The only bad news is that the kids did not want to go to bed last night. Too much napping can be a bad thing. They did go to bed eventually so it wasn't all bad.
I'm not sure this is a "what was I smoking" item...yet. I bought a swimsuit online. This could spell disaster. It was only $15 and I can return it if it is horrible. I'm just spending a lot of time in my suit lately and I'd like to have a backup since I'll be swimming twice a day next week.
I got to talk with Carl yesterday. He's in France and was REALLY tired! We only got to talk for a few minutes because I could tell he wanted to go to bed. It was 2pm our time and he said he only slept about an hour total on all his flights. It was 9pm there so he should have been able to get a full night of sleep before his meetings today.
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Lil' Swimmer
I had Carl swim with Caleb yesterday during his lesson so I could snap some pictures. He is really doing such a good job. Today they put the floaty belts on and Caleb went to the deepest part of the shallows where he couldn't really touch and started kicking around and telling everyone he was a fish. He was so proud of himself when he was swimming on his own.
I think his sensory issues are enough that he will not like putting his ears underwater...ever. That's okay. I don't either. I just want him to be proficient enough to enjoy swimming for leisure.
I signed up Eva for a session of swim lessons. They will overlap next week so I'll have Caleb with lessons in the morning and then I'll have to put my suit on again in the evening (Mon/Wed) for Eva. I don't know if Caleb will pass the Perch class this time around. He has to be able to jump in and swim the length of the shallow end of the pool by himself with a floaty belt.
In other news:
I can't decide whether or not to take my kids to the Omaha Zoo this afternoon. I think I will. They are open late for members tonight and they are giving out free train passes.
My reefer sweater will be finished by tomorrow. I only have 4 more rows to go on the ruffle edge along the bottom. That doesn't sound like a lot but I think there are over 400 stitches (estimate). I should easily finish it up tonight after the kids are in bed.
I haven't heard from Carl yet but I'm sure he is suffering from horrible jet lag and he probably isn't even settled into his hotel yet since he went straight from the airport to his meetings.
The bunk bed is now two separate beds and they are set up in their rooms. They LOVED going to bed in their new beds. Before their mattresses had just been on the floor. It is nice now to have beds and it is motivating me to now decorate their rooms and organize them like I want.
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Passport? Check.
The passport arrived this morning. Carl is at the airport right now ready to go on his whirlwind (now week long) trip to France. He is flying to Bordeaux and will spend a few days there before joining the university students last leg of their student abroad experience (aka sightseeing). He'll be going to some places out of his old mission area so that will be fun for him. I'm sad he's gone but I'm glad he finally got everything resolved and could leave the country. I've never seen him so stressed and depressed since I've known him. When the passport came this morning you could see the weight lifted off his shoulders.
I'm going to spend my "free" time tonight finishing up my Reefer sweater. It is almost finished and is looking really, really good. Probably my most awesome knitting to date.
I'm going to spend my "free" time tonight finishing up my Reefer sweater. It is almost finished and is looking really, really good. Probably my most awesome knitting to date.
Monday, July 23, 2007
Where Has the Time Gone?
The day is half over and I haven't blogged yet!
Here is what's new:
1. Caleb has a loose tooth. Wendy, my tooth guru, told Carl that everything was okay and he's probably just going to start losing his teeth earlier than expected. I did some checking around online and there are other 4 1/2 year olds that this has happened to so I'm not as freaked out as I was before. It just doesn't seem right that my kid can already be losing teeth!
2. Caleb started swim lessons today. He freaked out only because we had to wait to get into the pool. Once he was in there he was a pro! Hopefully now that he knows the routine, he'll be better for me. I did have to use some creative rewards (aka: bribes) to get him out of the pool and into his dry clothes.
3. Carl has his flight to France booked and he leaves tomorrow afternoon. He had to reschedule one appointment and push back another but it looks like everything is going to be fine. All he has really missed is his free time in Rouen (where he served for several months on his mission). I missed out on sock yarn, too. Small price to pay for having my husband here this weekend. I needed that.
4. We scored a free bunk bed. I've been looking for one for ages. By ages I mean about a month. I don't know for sure yet if it can be two stand alone beds or not.
5. I'm working hard on getting all of my county fair and state fair entries finished. The county fair entrants need to be turned in on the 30th and the state fair ones are due on the 16th of August.
Here is what's new:
1. Caleb has a loose tooth. Wendy, my tooth guru, told Carl that everything was okay and he's probably just going to start losing his teeth earlier than expected. I did some checking around online and there are other 4 1/2 year olds that this has happened to so I'm not as freaked out as I was before. It just doesn't seem right that my kid can already be losing teeth!
2. Caleb started swim lessons today. He freaked out only because we had to wait to get into the pool. Once he was in there he was a pro! Hopefully now that he knows the routine, he'll be better for me. I did have to use some creative rewards (aka: bribes) to get him out of the pool and into his dry clothes.
3. Carl has his flight to France booked and he leaves tomorrow afternoon. He had to reschedule one appointment and push back another but it looks like everything is going to be fine. All he has really missed is his free time in Rouen (where he served for several months on his mission). I missed out on sock yarn, too. Small price to pay for having my husband here this weekend. I needed that.
4. We scored a free bunk bed. I've been looking for one for ages. By ages I mean about a month. I don't know for sure yet if it can be two stand alone beds or not.
5. I'm working hard on getting all of my county fair and state fair entries finished. The county fair entrants need to be turned in on the 30th and the state fair ones are due on the 16th of August.
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Paris: The Update
Looks like Carl won't have to go to the appointment in Denver after all. The passport is on its way. It will either get here tomorrow or Tuesday. Looks like the call from the congressman put him to the top of the list. Thanks for the tip, Peggy! Now we're sad we didn't think of it ourselves earlier last week so he could have had it in time to leave on his normally scheduled flight. But, if for no other reason, I'm glad he was here this weekend because the kids have been so wild and I've needed backup more than once. Not to mention I was able to get and finish Book 7 which I probably would still be reading if he hadn't been here.
Saturday, July 21, 2007
We'll Always Have Paris
It looks like Carl might be getting out of here after all. He secured a Monday morning appointment at the passport office in Aurora, CO. He's out running around town getting new passport photos made and getting stuff from his office. He's got me busy trying to find flights for him. I think I found a pretty good option. I'm going to miss him but I'm SO GLAD he's going to finally be able to go.
We're still not totally out of the woods yet. Until he has a passport in his hands we are holding our breath. But, we are somewhat optimistic that he'll actually be able to make his appointments on Wednesday.
We're still not totally out of the woods yet. Until he has a passport in his hands we are holding our breath. But, we are somewhat optimistic that he'll actually be able to make his appointments on Wednesday.
Friday, July 20, 2007
Book 7
I just finished reading book 6 a few minutes ago and I can't wait to find out what happens in book 7. Since Carl can't go to France today I'll be able to leave the house at midnight tonight to go and pick it up. I wasn't going to do that but now that I've finished re-reading the book I don't think I can wait until tomorrow morning.
Blind Faith
Carl's packing did not help. No passport. He could go to Chicago or Denver but their earliest appointments are in August. That won't really help him since he needs to be in France by Wednesday at the latest. I'm feeling horrible for him. We're trying to do all we can but this trip may not happen. There must be some reason that he's not supposed to go but we might never know what that is. He's probably going to get chewed out by the Dean as well. It really isn't his fault. He applied for his renewal over 10 weeks ago (the website said that they were taking 4-10 weeks) so he thought he was okay to not pay the extra for expedited service. Our recommendation: If you're traveling in the next YEAR, you might want to pay for expedited service or your passport won't arrive on time.
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Rock It
Donna B. has kindly nominated me to be a Rockin' Girl Blogger. I'm glad she enjoys my wacky blog. It still fascinates me that people I haven't met in real life actually care about what's going on in my world...but I guess I care about what is going on with people I've only met through blogging...so I guess it's not THAT crazy. I'm supposed to nominate 5 Rockin' Girl Bloggers now and I just can't do it. You're all ROCKIN' to me!
In other news: Carl's passport is in Connecticut and they have until 5:15 pm today to finish it for him to get it in time for him to leave tomorrow. They have marked it as URGENT-FINISH TODAY but we shall see if he gets it on time. He is exercising great faith in the government and his power of prayer by starting to pack this morning. I'll keep you posted.
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
I Love You This Much!
I love Caleb so much that I got up at 5am this morning (and pretty much every 2 hours before that because I kept anticipating the alarm) so I could make sure he got into my preferred session of swim lessons at the Y. Member registration started this morning at 5am and there were only 5 spots. I got one. I'm going back to bed now.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Gay Pair-EE!
Carl is leaving for France on Friday. Maybe. His passport isn't here yet. He sent it off well enough in advance (according to the government) but it is still not here. He has been calling everyday these past couple of weeks telling them to HURRY UP! We'll see how that goes.
Carl also ordered a phone that he can use overseas. It has a UK number and a 1-800 number that I can use to call him for free for the first 45 minutes. This is something he didn't do far enough in advance so now he has to pay expedited shipping to get it before he leaves.
I'm pretty sure he is going to have a lot of fun even though this is a work trip. He's going to bring me back something but doesn't know what.
If your husband was going to France, leaving you at home alone with the kids for 12 days, what would you want him to bring back for you?
Monday, July 16, 2007
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Dear Apple,
Dear Apple,
You can make a device that will fit all of my favorite music and books into my pocket.
Will you please figure out how I can get some comfortable ear buds so I can LISTEN to all that stuff I have in my pocket?
Sincerely,
Ms. Sore Ears
You can make a device that will fit all of my favorite music and books into my pocket.
Will you please figure out how I can get some comfortable ear buds so I can LISTEN to all that stuff I have in my pocket?
Sincerely,
Ms. Sore Ears
Saturday, July 14, 2007
Mid Week Magic
I need some help. This isn't really my job at church but it is really clear that our midweek Enrichment activities are not working and I'd love to have some ideas to suggest. There are only about 4-5 sisters in our ward that attend and most of us attend all of them. This does not mean that 4-5 are there every week. This means that at any given activity one or two of those are going and they are the only ones at the activity.
It makes me think back to our days at Purdue and how awesome our midweek activities were (BEFORE midweek activities were actually a part of the Enrichment program) and I'm wondering how to get more people involved around here. I won't even go into how I've been trying to get a service auction in place (I don't think our Enrichment counselor is "catching the vision" of what an amazing activity this is).
What we have going on right now: a book group, a cooking group, and a card making group.
Our ward is a little more traditional than the ward in Purdue. We don't have 60 kids in the nursery and a plethora of young marrieds. What kinds of activities are being supported by your wards where you live? What would you attend? We've just had an influx of new people move in and it would be nice to have some activities for them (AND ME!) to attend.
It makes me think back to our days at Purdue and how awesome our midweek activities were (BEFORE midweek activities were actually a part of the Enrichment program) and I'm wondering how to get more people involved around here. I won't even go into how I've been trying to get a service auction in place (I don't think our Enrichment counselor is "catching the vision" of what an amazing activity this is).
What we have going on right now: a book group, a cooking group, and a card making group.
Our ward is a little more traditional than the ward in Purdue. We don't have 60 kids in the nursery and a plethora of young marrieds. What kinds of activities are being supported by your wards where you live? What would you attend? We've just had an influx of new people move in and it would be nice to have some activities for them (AND ME!) to attend.
Friday, July 13, 2007
Groceries
I went grocery shopping yesterday while Ashley was here with the kids. I was in desperate need of replenishing our stores. I didn't even have any FLOUR or paper towels! The horror. I know.
I went to my new grocery store of choice--Russ's. I got everything on my list but was also open to some impulse buying because our fridge was pretty empty. I noticed some Hormel refrigerated prepared meat. That sounds gross. They are really just packages of stuff like shredded beef in salsa and beef brisket that are already cooked and all you have to do is warm them up and add your own sides. They are regularly around $7 so I never bother. But, Russ's had them on sale for $3.98. I thought I'd give them a go since it might be nice to have that around while Carl is gone so I don't have to cook as much. I bought 3 (the previously mentioned ones plus a chicken breast). I'm always in the habit of checking my receipt from there because they will pay you the full price of anything that comes up as an overring. Do you see where I'm going with this?
They had to pay me $21 and let me keep the product because they rang up as $7 and not at the $3.98 price. Woohoo. They are so friendly and the store is so clean that I almost hate to be so happy about the incompetence of their pricing.
I also got some huge boxes of Fruit Loops for $2 that were on closeout because they have Shrek the Third on them.
Oh yeah, and green grapes are $.98 a pound.
It makes me not miss my mouse-ridden Super Saver at all!
I went to my new grocery store of choice--Russ's. I got everything on my list but was also open to some impulse buying because our fridge was pretty empty. I noticed some Hormel refrigerated prepared meat. That sounds gross. They are really just packages of stuff like shredded beef in salsa and beef brisket that are already cooked and all you have to do is warm them up and add your own sides. They are regularly around $7 so I never bother. But, Russ's had them on sale for $3.98. I thought I'd give them a go since it might be nice to have that around while Carl is gone so I don't have to cook as much. I bought 3 (the previously mentioned ones plus a chicken breast). I'm always in the habit of checking my receipt from there because they will pay you the full price of anything that comes up as an overring. Do you see where I'm going with this?
They had to pay me $21 and let me keep the product because they rang up as $7 and not at the $3.98 price. Woohoo. They are so friendly and the store is so clean that I almost hate to be so happy about the incompetence of their pricing.
I also got some huge boxes of Fruit Loops for $2 that were on closeout because they have Shrek the Third on them.
Oh yeah, and green grapes are $.98 a pound.
It makes me not miss my mouse-ridden Super Saver at all!
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Zoo Pals
We had a fabulous time at the zoo on Tuesday. Here is the best picture I got of all the kids. They all had a really good time.
Sam and Joe left early this morning. My dad drove in last night and they are on their way home right now. I think they're going to miss us. But, we have made plans to have Camp Nelson every year.
Today marks the beginning of the first "normal" day I've had around here for a while. We've had so many visitors these past few weeks. It has been fabulous but I must admit it will be nice to just "chill" with my kids today. I might take back this statement by the end of the day.
We had a nice visit from two of Carl's friends from high school. They were driving through yesterday and stopped by for lunch. I met them when I visited Carl in Rio Linda before he left on his mission (1995) and neither one of us has seen them since. They live in Valencia, CA and have a 3 yr. old daughter. We had a nice lunch and then they were off to North Platte, NE to see a brother get married.
I took Carl and the boys to see the Harry Potter movie yesterday. The adaptation was really well done. My only complaint: I wish they would have included more of the Order of the Phoenix. I love how they did Dumbledore's Army, the scenes with Fred and George (love them!), and Dolores Umbridge STOLE THE SHOW! Wow. What a great way to spend an afternoon.
I'm more and more convinced that Harry is going to survive the 7th book. Carl's friend, Scott, put it in a good way. He said that if Harry dies at the end the series, the books would be about a boy with a crappy life (all his family and friends die) and then he loses at the end and why would J.K. Rowling want to do that in a YA book series? I'm certain it is going to be a bittersweet ending---we already know at least 2 main characters are going to die---but we've got to hope that good will prevail over evil.
What do you guys think?
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
7/11
I make cards. Some would say that in addition to caring for my children, this is my job. I'm able to make a fair amount of cards to help support Autism Research and Caleb's therapy. I have a room devoted to crafting. I have a couple of boxes full of cards ready to sell and/or send for my own personal use.
Today is Tiffany's birthday. She's been my best friend since 1989. I didn't even send a card.* Will she forgive me?
Circle
yes no maybe
You can bet that a card will be on its way soon.
*Some might argue that a blog post wishing you a happy birthday would suffice. But, you're SO WORTH a real handmade card...and more!
Today is Tiffany's birthday. She's been my best friend since 1989. I didn't even send a card.* Will she forgive me?
Circle
yes no maybe
You can bet that a card will be on its way soon.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, TIFFANY!
*Some might argue that a blog post wishing you a happy birthday would suffice. But, you're SO WORTH a real handmade card...and more!
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Kickin' Some Butt
AMAZON.COM! How dare you! I got an email from amazon saying that I won't get my Harry Potter book on the day it comes out because I qualified for Super Saver shipping on my order. If I want it on the day it comes out I have to "upgrade" to standard shipping! I don't think so AMAZON.COM! I just canceled my order and will be hauling my cookies to Walmart or Target to get my copy.
I'm taking my brothers to see the movie tomorrow. Can't wait!
*for those of you that knew I was super sick yesterday---I'm feeling much better! Lots of sleep, a priesthood blessing, and 7up got me through it.
I'm taking my brothers to see the movie tomorrow. Can't wait!
*for those of you that knew I was super sick yesterday---I'm feeling much better! Lots of sleep, a priesthood blessing, and 7up got me through it.
Monday, July 09, 2007
Walk it Out
I totally stole this from Cjane this morning. You need to watch at least a little bit from both videos!
Sunday, July 08, 2007
Part Two
My dad loves the EARTH so he is doing his part by recycling his old cans into wind chimes. It is the Oklahoma thing to do.
Eva and Caleb couldn't be bothered to come inside the house to play. They spent most of the afternoon in Goldsby on the trampoline.We got them to stop jumping long enough to open some of those champagne poppers.
I also lured them away from the trampoline by taking them and my brothers (Sam and Joe) on a ride in my grandpa's "car". We went up and down the street. We usually take it back behind the barns but it was too muddy for me to risk it.
My dad loves ugly dogs. I don't have pictures of all of his ugly dogs but he got a new puppy. They found it and it was all messed up and had maggots all over it. It is now doing just fine and looks an awful lot like my old dog, Doug. Eva certainly loves animals. Everyone is trying to convince me to get her a dog but I'm not even close to succumbing to the pressure. I don't need another poop machine around here. I've got enough on my plate for now, thank you very much.We spent the last bit of the time in Goldsby packing up the boys for their stay here with us in Nebraska. Sam is having a lot of fun. He lost a tooth tonight during our 07/07/07 party (FUN FUN FUN!). It was pretty gross. Joe is having fun, too but really misses home. He has cried a couple of times and I feel bad for him. I was warned that this would happen. He loves his mama and dad. It is so sweet. We're going to spend the day at church tomorrow and then try and go out to the Omaha Zoo on Monday...maybe Tuesday. They only have a few days left to experience Nebraska. So far they've seen A LOT of corn.
Mmmm. Corn.
Saturday, July 07, 2007
Feeling Lucky?
It's our annual party today...
07/07/07
at 7:07pm
Are you coming?
You can always plan ahead for next year...08/08/08!
07/07/07
at 7:07pm
Are you coming?
You can always plan ahead for next year...08/08/08!
Friday, July 06, 2007
Part One
While in Oklahoma, we decided to do some shopping. We didn't get anything. 
The kids had a blast on the waterslide. This was on our first day and they didn't bother to put on their swimsuits.
Check out this monstrosity of fun! They LOVED it! As you can see, Eva preferred to climb up the slide. This was no easy feat as it had water streaming down it. But, she prevailed most every time.
Carl took over at this monstrosity of a grill! How awesome is that? It is Carl's birthday today. He decided to spend it at Scout Camp. He'll be back tomorrow morning and I'm making him a pie.
And, here is Caleb enjoying some time with his herd. He spent so much time following them around. He would put them in the coop, take them out, follow them around, and sometimes just stand by them with his hands over his ears. If the bigger geese came out of the pond, Caleb thought it his sacred duty to chase them back onto the water.
The kids had a blast on the waterslide. This was on our first day and they didn't bother to put on their swimsuits. 
Check out this monstrosity of fun! They LOVED it! As you can see, Eva preferred to climb up the slide. This was no easy feat as it had water streaming down it. But, she prevailed most every time. 
Carl took over at this monstrosity of a grill! How awesome is that? It is Carl's birthday today. He decided to spend it at Scout Camp. He'll be back tomorrow morning and I'm making him a pie. 
And, here is Caleb enjoying some time with his herd. He spent so much time following them around. He would put them in the coop, take them out, follow them around, and sometimes just stand by them with his hands over his ears. If the bigger geese came out of the pond, Caleb thought it his sacred duty to chase them back onto the water. 
Thursday, July 05, 2007
Back Home
I'm sitting in my own chair in my own room. It is really hot in our house right now because we turned the temp up so our AC wouldn't be running while we were gone.
We aren't unpacked yet.
The first thing we did was put our kids in the bathtub. They were nasty gross.
The big kids (Sam and Joe, my brothers) are getting acclimated and I think they've enjoyed their time with us so far. They had a blast at the 4th of July party at my mom's house.
Sam found a girl his age to play with (they're 11). Joe bonded with one of the boys (they're 10).
I took some pictures but not nearly enough. There was some sort of stomach illness going around. I had it one day, Caleb and Eva had it yesterday, and Carl was sick all the way home. It took us an extra hour to get here because we had to stop so much to go to the bathroom. Poor guy. I'm sure he'll be glad to know that I posted that information. About six other people at the reunion were sick as well. It didn't take away from the fun, though.
I'll post the pictures tomorrow once I get my camera upstairs.
My brothers are going to be here at least a week and I've got big plans for them...digging in the dirt for our patio, playing with my kids, vacuuming the floors, mowing the lawn, etc... In return for their service we are taking them to see the new Harry Potter movie (I know, big sacrifice on my part...ha ha), to the Omaha Zoo, to the Lincoln Zoo (free pony rides for Autism Family Network members on Wed night!), and who knows where else. The kids love them and should be good when they are around.
They won't be here while Carl is gone to France so I'm looking for someone to come and hang out with me anytime between July 20-31. Any takers? Free room and board? Lots of fun activities! No digging! Think about it, people. Email me if you're interested.
sra_nelson AT yahoo DOT com
We aren't unpacked yet.
The first thing we did was put our kids in the bathtub. They were nasty gross.
The big kids (Sam and Joe, my brothers) are getting acclimated and I think they've enjoyed their time with us so far. They had a blast at the 4th of July party at my mom's house.
Sam found a girl his age to play with (they're 11). Joe bonded with one of the boys (they're 10).
I took some pictures but not nearly enough. There was some sort of stomach illness going around. I had it one day, Caleb and Eva had it yesterday, and Carl was sick all the way home. It took us an extra hour to get here because we had to stop so much to go to the bathroom. Poor guy. I'm sure he'll be glad to know that I posted that information. About six other people at the reunion were sick as well. It didn't take away from the fun, though.
I'll post the pictures tomorrow once I get my camera upstairs.
My brothers are going to be here at least a week and I've got big plans for them...digging in the dirt for our patio, playing with my kids, vacuuming the floors, mowing the lawn, etc... In return for their service we are taking them to see the new Harry Potter movie (I know, big sacrifice on my part...ha ha), to the Omaha Zoo, to the Lincoln Zoo (free pony rides for Autism Family Network members on Wed night!), and who knows where else. The kids love them and should be good when they are around.
They won't be here while Carl is gone to France so I'm looking for someone to come and hang out with me anytime between July 20-31. Any takers? Free room and board? Lots of fun activities! No digging! Think about it, people. Email me if you're interested.
sra_nelson AT yahoo DOT com
Wednesday, July 04, 2007
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
Cop Out
Here is my cop out post for the day.
We "kidnapped" my brothers for about 10 days. They are going to be my helpers. It is going to be a blast. At least it will be a blast for me!
Ha ha.
No, really. We're all going to have an excellent time!
We "kidnapped" my brothers for about 10 days. They are going to be my helpers. It is going to be a blast. At least it will be a blast for me!
Ha ha.
No, really. We're all going to have an excellent time!
Monday, July 02, 2007
Can't Stay Away
In the past few days we have:
1. watched Caleb follow around the ducks. It is really cute. He just follows them around the yard.
2. Seen Carl, Caleb, and Eva slide down a waterslide in the backyard.
3. Eaten way too much at Incredible Pizza and celebrated some birthdays.
4. Taken a shower in my mom's awesome new bathroom. The steam was a little much but I do enjoy the rain, the massaging jets, and the easy temperature control.
5. Planned a new haircut and color.
More later!
1. watched Caleb follow around the ducks. It is really cute. He just follows them around the yard.
2. Seen Carl, Caleb, and Eva slide down a waterslide in the backyard.
3. Eaten way too much at Incredible Pizza and celebrated some birthdays.
4. Taken a shower in my mom's awesome new bathroom. The steam was a little much but I do enjoy the rain, the massaging jets, and the easy temperature control.
5. Planned a new haircut and color.
More later!
Sunday, July 01, 2007
Fashionista
I'm actually writing this post while we're still in Nebraska. I just had to document this super cute outfit that Eva put together today.
Caleb helped out with providing some rockin' music to go with her groovy dance moves. Fun times.
***I'm in Oklahoma now adding on to this post I wrote earlier. The trip was fine. Most of Oklahoma is under water. It is crazy! We're getting muddy and wet but having a blast. I think I might actually take a day or two off from blogging (well, we shall see).
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