Surrounded by Cats

2011-12-23T16:40:00.003-08:00

"Due to a lack of education, I don't know crap."
Calob Symonds 12/21/2011

... Anybody Home?

2010-07-01T22:41:00.002-07:00

I'm still alive. I don't have anything interesting to say at the moment ... shocking, I know. :) Maybe I'll update with pictures of the kids someday soon ... maybe!

Enough Said!!!

2010-04-29T16:42:00.000-07:00

Nightmare!

2010-04-25T09:26:00.005-07:00

Do you ever have those one of those dreams that scares you to your very core? Me too. I had one last night. I dreamt I was pregnant again & my goodness, it was not a pretty site. I was huge (abnormal huge, kind of like you'd see at a freak show) and my belly didn't fit through normal-sized doorways, behind the wheel of a car, etc. It was just odd. Anyone who knows me knows that I do NOT want to have any more kids. I am totally content with the 2 kids I already have, thank you very much.

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Then at the end of the dream (aka nightmare), I died. Not from childbirth or anything like that. I just died.

(nope, not my belly, just a picture I found online)

Drink Milk!

2010-04-21T07:39:00.002-07:00

My mom & I saw Tim McGraw at GM Place (up in Vancouver) ... at some point before the concert we went to the bathroom. This was on the inside door of the stall I went in. There was no way I could NOT take a picture of it. I was truly shocked to see something so bizarre ... in the bathroom stall. I asked my mom & she said her stall didn't have any poster. I guess I'm special ... or something. lol All I have to say is, drink your milk! You don't want to end up like this lady!!!! hahaha

Peek-A-Boo

2010-04-19T19:09:00.005-07:00

I thought I should post to let everyone know that we are still alive ... contrary to popular belief. I was doing GREAT posting every single day until our computer was hit by a virus. A very bad, nasty, mean virus. It took our computer "out of commission" for almost a week. The guy who worked on it said it was one of the worst cases he's seen. Yay for us. haha Anyway, once we got our computer back I was just out of the habit. I'll try to get back "into it" but I can't make any promises.

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So, the kids are still kicking, Tamara is still alive (yay), I saw Tim McGraw again (and touched him TWICE), and we made our annual trek to the tulips. Enjoy our "official family tulip picture" for 2010.

"The Blind Side"

2010-02-01T19:53:00.003-08:00

If you haven't seen "The Blind Side" yet I highly recommend you go see it ... PRONTO! It truly is a great movie. Tim McGraw is in it but that's not the reason to go see it (although he is an added bonus). The story is emotional, the acting is superb & it makes you feel good inside. Tomorrow morning the Oscar nominations will be announced & I'm sure Sandra Bullock will be nominated ... she's already won a SAG & Emmy for her role. Here are a few assorted pictures.

9th Place Trophy!

2010-01-31T19:24:00.002-08:00

Here's a picture of Calob with his 9th place trophy. Terence did take pictures at the tourney but I need Calob to explain the pictures for me ... so you know what you're looking at - and so I know too. ☺ Hopefully I'll get those up tomorrow.

9th Place Finish!!!

2010-01-30T21:10:00.002-08:00

Calob finished with 3.5 points &

took 9th place ...

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!

I don't have any pictures from the tourney as they're still down in Seattle & won't be home for hours. I'm posting an old picture of Calob at the state tourney in 2nd grade (I think) ... he finished 15th in this one. ☺

High School State Chess Tournament

2010-01-29T14:27:00.003-08:00

Calob is competing in his first (sort of)

chess tournament as a high schooler.

He has competed as part of a team

but not individually.

This is a big step ...

I'm thinking the competitors are

going to be bigger & better.

.......... .......... ..........

Good luck to Calob!!!

Sneezing the Day Away

2010-01-28T07:44:00.002-08:00

That's how I spent yesterday afternoon & evening ... sneezing the day away. UGH! I can't tell you enough how exhausting it is to sneeze continually. Callie told me I looked tired last night ... DUH ... lol. Too bad I can't look cute when I'm sneezing like this baby panda who sneezes & scares it's mom. SO cute!!! ☺

Learning the Cuddle & the Dip ... Wow!

2010-01-27T06:11:00.001-08:00

Friday night was another successful & fun night of Salsa dancing. The teachers definitely threw new stuff at the class but they did quite well. Not perfect, of course, but they're learning & soaking it all up. This class was very "hands on" compared to other classes. It was pretty funny to watch Callie & Oskar figure out how to deal with it. They were both embarrassed when the class began but were getting more comfortable with all the "touchy-feely" stuff near the end. I hope they get more comfortable, especially considering this was only week 3 & I imagine they'll be more where that came from. :)

- - - - - - - - - -

We can't remember the name of this move ...

but Oskar had to wrap his arms around

Callie in order to switch hands.

The 2nd half of the picture below is capturing

quite a moment. In this move Callie is supposed

to "drag" her hand across Oskar's stomach.

It's the move people! lol

Anyway, she was hesitant to do it &

was just learning her hand in the air rather

than on his stomach. You can see where she's

actually touching him AND him noticing it as well!

Love it!!!

Oskar being, well, Oskar! :)

Just dancing The "Cuddle"
The "fling from cuddle"

Callie & Oskar reacting to hearing they

were learning "the dip" next.

Learning "the dip"

Oh yeah!

Their final dip of the night.

Stretching It Out

2010-01-26T06:02:00.000-08:00

The other night after Contemporary, Callie & I

had a 45-minute wait until Salsa started.

She wanted to do some stretching

& I of course took pictures.

¨ ¨ ¨ ¨ ¨ ¨ ¨

I love the look of this first picture.

I used the flash which explains why the

color is SO different than the pictures below it.

It also explains why you see what looks

like stretch marks on her legs ...

it's actually the reflection of the floor

on the bottom of her legs.

Weird but cool.

A triple-picture ... such good stretching!

Splits ... ouch!

She's SO proud of herself though.

She's worked VERY hard to get them!!!

Salsa pictures tomorrow!!!

Pop, Pop!

2010-01-25T08:07:00.002-08:00

Happy Bubble Wrap® Appreciation Day!

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Click on the picture to go to the site where you can

even play a popping game!

Go Saints!

2010-01-24T19:39:00.000-08:00

Who Knew?

2010-01-23T21:04:00.004-08:00

Last night our family was invited over to Jenny's house to play games with their family. We eagerly accepted the invitation! Jenny prepared lots of treats & goodies to eat (yay) and we got right to the games. We played Apples to Apples first (remember how much we like this game?) ... there were 9 of us ... SO fun to play with such a big group, several we don't know well at all!!! The 2nd game we played was Guesstures. We had never played before but it was fun. I'm not the best at acting stuff out (it's a fast-paced Charades-type game) but I managed to do ok. It was really fun to see how everyone chose to act ... the adults & the kids. Fun stuff. The last game we played was Whoonu. Haven't heard of it yet? You should definitely give it a try. It's sort of like Apples to Apples but not. You are essentially guessing what you think is someone's favorite thing(s). Sometimes you are right on & sometimes you are way off. Jenny had NO idea how much I enjoyed dog shows. I truly do LOVE dog shows. I don't like dogs in real life (woof, woof ... SCARY) but I love them on T.V. lol Go figure. Either way we had lots of fun & learned a lot about each other.

Studio Time

2010-01-22T19:27:00.000-08:00

Team Conan

2010-01-21T07:54:00.003-08:00

I am, without a doubt, on Team Conan!

I know Conan isn't for everyone, and that's alright, but he definitely added something to my nights. I'm going to miss him. I think it's sad that NBC groomed him for many years to take over for Jay Leno ... giving Jay his own , earlier show ... and once Jay bombs, essentially makes Conan leave. Yes, there are lots of details & stories and the public doesn't know it all, BUT I do know that Conan shouldn't have to leave because Jay failed.

I have to say that I respect Conan for making his staff part of his negotiations. Think of all those people who moved from New York to Los Angeles with him who are going to be out of a job, TOMORROW NIGHT! Yep, Friday, January 22, 2010 is Conan's last show as the host of "The Tonight Show." I'll be watching ... will you?

Enough said.

I sincerely hope somebody else picks up Conan & he will grace my T.V. again with all his lovely, quirky humor!!!

Tuesday Sweets

2010-01-20T07:25:00.002-08:00

Jerrie & I went to town yesterday with a plan

... to eat sweet treats.

We succeeded.

° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° °

We started at Rocket Donuts. We'd talked about going before but never made it together. Jerrie had gone ... but yesterday was my first time. They have a donut with bacon on it. Ewwwww. We didn't get one of those. I got a glazed donut (seriously, what's better than a glazed donut) and a cinnamon crumb cake. They were good. Not fabulous but good. I also drank a blackberry Izze ... yummy. Jerrie had a latte & a bismark.

The atmosphere/decor is interesting. Apparently there's information about it on the website. I didn't read it beforehand. Maybe if I had I wouldn't have been so surprised by what I saw inside. lol

We then shopped at odd stores here & there before we ended our day at Katie's Cupcakes. We've been before but yesterday they had a hummingbird cupcake which HAD to be tried. It was ok but it was not nearly as good as the hummingbird cupcakes they have a Trophy Cupcakes. Don't get me wrong though ... if I went to Katie's again, I'd have it ... but I'd know it wasn't going to knock my socks off. And that's ok. :)

Sorry, She's Busy Dancing :)

2010-01-19T06:13:00.003-08:00

Friday was the 2nd week of Callie's Contemporary class & Salsa class. She's loving them both SO much!!! Contemporary is for the whole session but Salsa is only a 6-week class. She's also taking ballet still, twice a week, so she's a busy girl. Since she's now dancing 3 days a week, her 2 days off are spent dancing in the house ... lol ... she can't get enough.

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Miss Becki & Callie

in Contemporary

Callie & Oskar were SO much better in their 2nd week of Salsa. I was pretty surprised because they didn't practice (together) since the actual class the week before. I was impressed though.

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Callie giving me the "stare" &

Learning the push turn

Learning the "Around the World" turn

Killing me!
Oh my!

Having fun!

Freestyle

Another successful class!

"I Have a Dream ... "

2010-01-18T05:33:00.000-08:00

Popsicle Delight

2010-01-17T08:20:00.002-08:00

I was shopping in Safeway the other night & came across these beauties. I am a fan of almonds ... they make me happy. BUT I'm not always a fan of ice cream ... weird, I know. Anyway, I decided to give them a try & they are YUMMY in my tummy! I definitely think you should try them! If you don't like almonds, that's ok, buy them for me! ☺

Need Some Inspiration?

2010-01-16T00:03:00.000-08:00

It's been hard to watch all the coverage of the earthquake in Haiti. I can't imagine what the people there are going through ... or the people who aren't there but have loved ones in Haiti. It's truly unimaginable.

I remember seeing this video for the first time & being so moved by it ... watching it again, I feel the same way. It was such a remarkable video & it truly stands the test of time.

Cowgirl Up!

2010-01-15T06:59:00.002-08:00

I've been meaning to post this picture of Callie & Oskar for a while now. It was taken in August at the NW WA Fair. Callie wanted to get it done & Oskar was quite happy to comply. I was pretty shocked ... it's not a boy's thing so much. Maybe he did it to make Callie happy ... lol ... who knows. We tried to talk Callie into dressing girly for the picture but she was having none of it. I don't know if it's because Oskar already knew what he wanted to wear & she wanted to go along with him ... which wouldn't surprise me at all.

**Regardless, they're adorable!**

Twirly Girl

2010-01-14T06:16:00.003-08:00

Callie bought herself a new skirt at Old Navy

& oh my goodness does she love it.

She's demonstrating it's "twirliness"

in the picture below.

○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○

Enjoy!

Fettuccini Anyone?

2010-01-13T07:04:00.000-08:00

The final (I think) birthday celebration for Calob was held this past Sunday at Olive Garden. Our family and Sharon's family ate to our heart's content (and then some). Calob ordered the Seafood Fettuccini, which is his favorite.

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This picture just kills me. I'm not sure how much wider Calob can open his mouth ... sheesh, can you imagine when he's eating something that's actually big?!? HAHA

Callie and a Hairbrush

2010-01-12T06:49:00.000-08:00

Callie is such a girly girl ... and she fully embraces that side of herself. I, on the other hand, struggle with it. I'm NOT a girly girl & can't wrap my head around the way she thinks or the things she does. Regardless, she's my daughter and I love her. As a girly girl, she likes to primp. Brush her hair, stare at herself in the mirror, brush her hair ... you get the idea. The other night she was brushing her hair ... a lot ... and I took some pictures of her in all her hair brushing glory. lol The first set is a little funky (kind of like the jumping ones of Calob) but the second set is much better. Enjoy!

Successful Sleepover

2010-01-11T07:03:00.002-08:00

Calob had his birthday "celebration" on Saturday. He invited 2 friends over for food, video games & a sleepover. I bet you're wondering what a successful sleepover is, aren't you? Well, apparently a successful sleepover is one where they don't sleep. You're welcome for that little bit of education on a Monday. ☺

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Calob, Eli & Henry

Such boys
Henry wasn't able to stay for the "sleepover" which was a bummer. Although since there wasn't any sleeping until after 6:30 am, maybe that's a good thing for him. You'll have to excuse the graininess of the pictures below. It was pretty dark & I didn't want to use the flash or turn on the lights & wake up the boys. Calob is on the left & Eli is on the right.

The aftermath

Salsa ... oh la la!

2010-01-10T09:02:00.005-08:00

Callie had a BIG Friday! A while ago, her "special friend" Oskar, asked if she would take a 6-week Salsa class with him. She was SO thrilled & said yes immediately. Friday was their first class. She's been talking about it almost non-stop. Well, little did she know that we (T & I) had also signed her up for a Contemporary class. She's wanted to take it for quite some time but we always told her no, mainly from a financial standpoint. We decided this would be a good time for her to try it. We just forgot to tell her about it. lol As the class got closer, it just never really came up again (she was too excited about her Salsa class to even think about Contemporary) so I decided we just wouldn't tell her ... at all. So on Friday, we left for Salsa super early, with her thinking we were going to the library beforehand. Here's her face when she found out why we actually left so early. (The Contemporary class is right before Salsa, so it's perfect) Needless to say she was THRILLED!!! She's still talking about how excited she is to take the class. Here's Callie stretching at the beginning of class. And that's Makenna you see too. They were the only 2 to show up to the first class.

Then it was time for Salsa class with Oskar.

She was practically vibrating with excitement

... it was SO cute.

-----

Oskar THRILLED I'm taking pictures

Watching the teachers Learning the turn

Learning the crossover

Here are the best pictures of the night (except that Callie is slightly out-of-focus ... my camera is totally focused on Oskar). Callie & Oskar holding hands when they didn't have to ... OMG ... adorable!!!

Student of the Month

2010-01-09T08:46:00.002-08:00

Calob was very excited to receive the

"Student of the Month"

award, for December, in Math.

Calob loves math.

Calob excels at math.

Way to go, Calob!!!

Faces of Calob

2010-01-08T05:57:00.003-08:00

I love taking pictures of my kids. Typically they are very willing subjects. Heck, with a mom like me, they'd better be. hehe Although Calob is a teenager, he is usually willing to let me take his picture. That makes me happy ... oh so happy. ☺

**---**---**---**---**---**---**

Where you can find Calob on a typical day.

Farmville on Facebook.

I was taking pictures of Calob on Tuesday night for his birthday post. I decided to try to get pictures of him jumping. Oh the fun we had. I had to use the flash & because of that, there was a delay. That delay added fun/frustration to the picture-taking process. Here are some "outtakes" of Calob jumping. LOVE the looks on his face!!!

Here's what we were (basically) going for ...

Calob jumping for joy!!!

Presents for Calob

2010-01-07T06:44:00.002-08:00

Calob is 15. When did that happen? I just don't get how so much time has passed in such a short amount of time. Yes, I know that's a weird sentence but it is how I feel. Weird. lol Calob received great gifts for his birthday. Here's the loot.

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Hawaii shirts from Grandma Sachi

A Nintendo "Get a Life" shirt &

chocolatey popcorn from Callie

"Mario & Sonic at the Winter Olympics"

and a Zelda game from us.

He also got a Starbuck's gift card & money for a Wii Points card from Grandma Judy and a Wood's gift card from us. Lucky boy ... he made out well!!! :)

Happy 15th Birthday Calob!!!

2010-01-06T07:30:00.002-08:00

Today is all about Calob ...
He is 15!
Happy Birthday, Calob!!!

My Kiddos

2010-01-05T07:36:00.002-08:00

Let There Be Light!

2010-01-04T06:20:00.000-08:00

Callie has been asking us to put Christmas lights in her room for quite a while. I've always said no. Then we bought new lights this year & once we realized they wouldn't work on our tree (white cord on a green tree, uh NO) we didn't know what to do with them. And to top it off, Terence never returned them, so we've had these lights just sitting around the house. I figured that was as good a reason as any to put them in her room. We didn't tell her though. She knew we were doing something in her room but she didn't know what.

• • • • • • • • • • •

SURPRISE!!!

Friends & Apples

2010-01-03T08:56:00.000-08:00

Remember when we played "Apples to Apples" for the first time? Of course you do, it was only a few days ago ... ha ... anyway, remember when I mentioned how much fun it would be to play with another family? Of course you do ... ha ... so I emailed Sharon & Gord and suggested we have a game night. They accepted the 'challenge' and we played on New Year's Eve. Oh my goodness we had a lot of fun. There were 8 of playing for the first few rounds & then just 6 of us (Callie & Emily went upstairs) playing for the final couple of rounds. To say it was interesting is putting it mildly. We definitely had some disagreements about the choices made but it was all in good fun. I know it's something we need to do again ... soon!

*_._*_._*_._*_._*_._*_._*_._*

Here's my attempt at a group shot of us playing. You can barely see Callie to my left & somehow Emily didn't even make it in the picture (sorry Emily). I absolutely LOVE the look on T's face though ... hahahaha

Movie Date

2010-01-02T10:10:00.002-08:00

On Monday, Calob & I accompanied Callie & Oskar on what I classify as their "first date." Granted we were with them BUT they sat on their own to eat & in the movies. Yep, they saw their first movie together. We saw "Alvin the the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel" which wouldn't have been the first choice for any of us but it was pretty much the only appropriate movie showing. So that's what we saw. It wasn't great but it certainly wasn't horrible. I've read some people talking about how awful it is. Seriously, it's a cartoon about chipmunks ... if you're expecting Oscar worthy stuff, you're in the wrong place. If you go into it rationally you will get exactly what you expect ... at least I think so. They both seemed to enjoy the movie (although I couldn't really see them). The whole thing was super sweet ... they even shared a drink (his idea). Memories for sure. After the movie Oskar came to our house for a bit to wait for his mom to pick him up. Callie & Oskar played Wii ... because really, what else is there to do when mom is right there with a camera? ☺

Happy 2010!

2010-01-01T11:36:00.003-08:00

Happy New Year ... 2010 ... to you & yours!

Here's a picture me ... because I'm just SO cute! :)

Where were you ... 15 years ago?!?

2009-12-31T07:49:00.003-08:00

It seems weird to me that 15 years ago today I was in labor. OK, maybe not official labor but I was having contractions. Donna had come from San Diego in the hopes that I'd have Calob during her visit, since I was already overdue (due date was Christmas). We all went out (Me, Terence, Donna & Mums) ... ate, saw a movie ("Speechless" anyone?) & I was having contractions the whole time. Clearly the contractions didn't lead to anything but it was a fun time. This picture was taken back at our apartment.

↔ ↔ ↔ ↔ ↔ ↔ ↔ ↔ ↔

I've always loved it (the picture, not the apartment). Donna saying "HI" to Calob & probably willing him to make an appearance.

Sheesh, don't I look like a baby myself? I also remember Terence SO hoping I'd give birth that night, so we'd have a tax break for 1994 ... hahaha ... obviously Calob had other plans.

Commitment

2009-12-30T09:45:00.002-08:00

I found this shirt and laughed a LOT! I knew I had to buy it for Calob. I wasn't sure he would appreciate it as much as I thought he should, but when he opened it Christmas morning & laughed ... a LOT ... I knew he "got it!" Silly shirts like this crack me up!

Apples to Apples

2009-12-29T06:43:00.003-08:00

Calob & Callie received the game "Apples to Apples" from Santa for Christmas this year. I had heard about it from time to time but heard LOTS about it in the week leading up to Christmas. Weird. Anyway, we played for the first time the other night & had a really fun time. If you don't know how to play (Terence, Callie & I played for the first time that night) here you go - General game play is as follows: players are dealt red cards which have a noun printed on them, and the judge (a different player in each turn) draws a green card on which an adjective is printed and places it for all players to see. Each player then chooses a red card they are holding that they think best describes the green card. The judge then decides which adjective he/she likes best. Sounds simple, right? Well, yeah ... sort of. The hard part is trying to figure out which card the judge is going to pick. I was the first judge & I took a picture of the cards. I had to pick the red apple card that I thought matched "legendary" the best. What do you think I chose? (hush Jerrie, you already know)

I chose Tom Cruise. Yes, he's crazy ... but it's all good. He's a great actor. I did have to think about it though. I thought all 3 cards fit the green apple card but chose Tom in the end. I think it would be really fun to play with another family (in addition to ours, of course) and really see how crazy it could get. We had a few minor/major "discussions" about a few of the rounds, but it was all in good fun. I can't wait to play again.

Christmas Vacation

2009-12-28T08:51:00.002-08:00

We have done a whole lot of nothing during Christmas Break this year & I think we're all pretty ok with it! We've slept, watched tv, napped, ate ... and that pretty much covers it. We did get out on Christmas Eve for our dinner but other than that, we've been pretty homebound ... and it's been great.

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Calob hanging with Tamara

Callie hanging with Kit

(and the new outfit Grandma Judy bought for Kit)

Pillowcases Galore

2009-12-27T08:43:00.002-08:00

My Aunt Lainey is a very creative gal ... more creative than anyone I know! It blows me away the stuff she can do. She surprised us with personalized pillowcases this year. Not only are they personalized, but they are also handmade. We are SO touched to have someone so special in our lives & that knows us so well. Each pillowcase reflects who we are individually and then also has our name embroidered on it too (mine has a kitty next to my name too ... perfect)!!! We absolutely love them!!! Thanks bunches Aunt Lainey ... they're fabulous!!!

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The kids & their pillowcases &

Callie with the adorable cup & saucer ...

can you tell how tickled she is by it?!? :)

Here are all the pillowcases. I included the

part with my name & adorable kitty

larger because it was kind of hard to see in the original

picture & it's SO adorable, I didn't want anyone to miss it! :)

Christmas Morning

2009-12-26T08:13:00.000-08:00

The Christmas tree area Christmas morning

before the kids saw it.

The kids always have to wait upstairs until they are called down to see the tree & open presents. It's the way we've always done it & hopefully will continue to do so. It works really well for us. Anyway, I headed to the stairs to call them & this is what I saw ... Callie. ha
Forgive my pictures. Apparently I decided to take pictures without the flash & the pictures suffered big time for that. I took bunches of pictures but most of them are blurry & didn't turn out nearly as good as the ones below. I just included a few assorted pictures of Calob & Callie opening gifts.

Oh look, it's amazing what a flash can do! lol

We all had a very Merry Christmas & hope you did as well. May the rest of your Christmas holiday be blessed with love & family!!!

Christmas Eve Dinner

2009-12-25T15:57:00.002-08:00

We went to Sharon & Gord's last night for a lovely Christmas Eve dinner. Normally we have dinner on Christmas day but Gord had to work so we celebrated early. It was great as always. It's amazing to have such good friends who are always willing to invite us to share their holidays with them!!!

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Calob & Gord playing Mario Kart.

The 2 families.

"O Holy Night"

2009-12-24T09:33:00.003-08:00

Do you have a favorite Christmas carol? In our house, the choices are quite varied. Terence - "Rudolph, The Red-Nosed Reindeer" ... Calob - "Santa Clause Comes Tonight" ... Callie - "Silent Night" ... and mine is "O Holy Night." Something about that song touches me deep down in my soul. I'm not a super religious person (as you may or may not know) but at the right time and the right place, that song can literally bring me to my knees & to tears ... in a truly wonderful way.

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"Straight No Chaser" is an all-male a capella group we discovered on the radio one day. I LOVE a capella ... and these guys definitely bring a smile to my face. Hopefully they will for you too.

Enough Said!

2009-12-23T10:16:00.000-08:00

"Miracle on Main Street"

2009-12-22T09:07:00.003-08:00

On Sunday, the Kidsing Praise Network, performed "Miracle on Main Street." The basic story is that the mayor (along with some townspeople) no longer want the Christmas pageant performed in the Main Street square. The kids decide they need to save Christmas & set about making it happen. Of course, the kids were successful.

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The preschoolers opened the show &

oh how I wish you could've heard them.

They were a R-I-O-T!!! ☺

"I Hate to Wait for Christmas"

The hippies that didn't want the

Christmas pageant to be performed

in Main Street square.

"I Believe"

The Nativity Scene

Teacher Presents

2009-12-21T08:52:00.002-08:00

Callie is VERY creative. She has her own ideas of what is stylish & how things should be. I shouldn't be surprised by the ornaments she made for her teachers then. Yet I was. I have a feeling these handpainted gems will never get lost on a tree. ☺

____________________

Opening a treat bag
Singing with the honor choir

Skating PJ Party

2009-12-20T07:13:00.001-08:00

Yesterday at Callie's school they had pajama day. It happened to coincide with a 5th grade skating party too. It was quite funny to see so many kids skating in their pj's. While wearing pj's isn't required, most of the kids join in the fun.

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Icee energy before skating

Heading into the rink
Practically a pro!

Smile!

Katie & Callie

More Decorations

2009-12-19T19:05:00.002-08:00

A few more pictures of decorations

in our house this year.

Winter Choir Concert - 2009

2009-12-18T16:21:00.000-08:00

Here are a bunch of pictures (with descriptions right on them) of Calob's latest choir concert. They performed on Tuesday night & did a great job. It's always my favorite concert of the year.

Lots of Ornaments

2009-12-17T19:17:00.005-08:00

Assorted pictures of

ornaments on our Christmas tree.

Butterscotch Squares

2009-12-15T09:37:00.006-08:00

I'm not a huge chocolate lover. I know to some people that is just bizarre but I much prefer sour candy. Be that as it may, I do have 1 chocolate in particular that I LOVE!!! Butterscotch Squares ... YUMMY!!! See's Candies makes them & they are just perfect!!! Interestingly enough, they don't taste like butterscotch though, which is funny. I don't like butterscotch & only tried it because it was the free sample given in the store once. I'm SO glad I tried it (as you all know, I'm not much for anything "new"). The website lists it as "firm, brown sugar & vanilla buttercream. Oh yeah, just my kind of candy. If you haven't tried this kind before, I say you give it a try. Lucky for me, both Calob & Sharon gave me some for my birthday so I'm in butterscotch square heaven.

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I do have 1 issue with the candy though. It's not square. It's rectangle. What's up with that?!?

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If you are looking for it on the custom mix page (the link provided) it's #6, top right. ☺

Recital Nights 1 & 2 ... "The Nutcracker" - 2009

2009-12-14T06:23:00.005-08:00

We made it through yet another recital weekend. Whew! There's nothing like recitals to make you go a little crazy, especially at this time of year. I can't imagine Callie NOT having the chance to dance on the stage though. She loves it. She soaks up the energy ... and pours her heart out on the stage. It truly is a beautiful thing to watch ... and that's saying a LOT since I don't like ballet. Callie did a terrific job as a rat & as a Spanish dancer. She now has 3 weeks off until the next session of dance starts & she's beside herself not knowing what to do. Poor girl just needs to dance ... all the time! Here are assorted pictures from the 2 recital nights.

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FRIDAY NIGHT PICTURES

Makenna & Callie

Fellow rats & "Clara" (aka Taylor) Callie with flowers from Oskar
Callie & Oskar exchanged Christmas presents for the first time this year. It was fun to help her shop for him & find just the right gift.
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Callie is totally blurry in this picture
but I just LOVE the look of anticipation on
Oskar's face ... LOVE IT!!!
Oskar bought Callie sweet pea perfume
Callie bought Oskar a funny shirt
So cute!

On Saturday nights I help backstage ... so I'm also known as a "helper mom." It's a whole different perspective on recitals but can be fun ... at times ... you never can tell. ☺

SATURDAY NIGHT PICTURES

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Oskar (dressed as Fritz) and Callie

Callie as a rat & the rats w/Clara

before dancing onstage

Callie the rat

More rat dancing

Spanish dance & curtain call

Oskar (dressed as The Nutcracker) & Callie and Oskar (wearing the shirt Callie gave him the night before) and Callie.

In case you're wondering, the shirts says "Don't play with duct tape." Kind of an inside thing related to D.I. ☺

Lighted Christmas Parade

2009-12-13T08:29:00.000-08:00

For the first time Callie's ballet studio was in the lighted Christmas parade. To say it was cold is a major understatement but it wasn't snowing, so at least that was good. I tried to talk Callie out of it but there was no keeping her away. Callie was pleased as punch to be able to sit by Oskar on the float! Oh yeah, it's the little things in life that make a difference.

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Callie & Oskar

Oskar & Callie

The dance teachers (and some students)

dancing behind the float

See's Candies Overload - 2009

2009-12-12T07:56:00.001-08:00

Calob was a fundraising monster again this year when they were asked to sell See's Candies to support the Music Boosters. He didn't sell as much as last year but I think it was more than the year before that. Regardless, he did a good job & I'm proud of him.

Winter Recital - 2009

2009-12-11T11:21:00.005-08:00

The ballet studio where Callie dances had their winter recital dress rehearsal on Wednesday night. They are having "The Nutcracker" as their production again this year. You might remember last year ... here and here ... when Callie danced the part of Clara (such good memories for her). This year, Callie moved up to Ballet 4 and therefore was unable to dance the part of Clara again. She was SUPER excited to find out she'd be dancing as a rat. Yep, my daughter the rat. If you don't know the story of "The Nutcracker" at all, the rats are ultimately out to get Clara & she is protected by the dolls & eventually saved by "The Nutracker" (danced again by Oskar, Callie's "special" friend). Here are some rat pictures.

That's a doll behind her ... as the rats are circling Clara The other dance she was in was the Spanish dance. (She was in the Russian & Chinese dances last year). It's a short dance (about a minute) but pretty & fun to watch.

Totally blurry but I like this picture.

The color is really good & it shows

her "in motion" ... groovy

So pretty!

Thanks to our friends that came to watch Callie (and others) on dress rehearsal night. Sharon & Emily, Andrea & Kelsey and even Jerrie came this year. Thanks ladies, Callie (and I) very much appreciate the support!

Oh Christmas Tree!

2009-12-09T06:53:00.000-08:00

We have a new Christmas tree this year. We didn't plan to get one. Nope, not on the list at all. We had everything set & ready to go with the decorating of the old tree. Terence put the tree together & guess what? About 1/3 of the lights didn't work. And everybody knows, you can NOT have a funkily (yes, it IS a word) lit Christmas tree. So we decided a new tree was now on the list. We also decided to get one that was NOT pre-lit so we wouldn't run into the same problems. We ended up with a much larger tree (taller & wider) but much more to my liking. We also bought new lights ... energy efficient something or others. Groovy.

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The kids had a blast decorating it, as usual.

I absolutely love, Love, LOVE this picture!

It truly shows the tree being decorated

from top (Callie) to bottom (Calob)!!!

A Visit With Miss Hope

2009-12-08T06:07:00.000-08:00

Callie & I were thrilled to learn that Miss Hope (Callie's ballet teacher that moved to Georgia) was heading "home" for a Thanksgiving visit. We were able to spend a few hours with her and while those few hours were great, they definitely weren't enough. We're trying to find a way to keep Hope here but she's resisting ... I'm thinking of some sort of underground room for her ... what do you think? ☺

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Callie & Hope ... lunch at Bob's

Callie with her ballet stickers from Miss Hope
Callie & Miss Hope ... power-shopping ... lol
Never enough hugs
Callie LOVING the sun!
Callie, Hope & Me ... a final good-bye :(

A Brace Face No More!!!

2009-12-07T16:52:00.006-08:00

Today is the day that Calob's mouth was liberated from BRACES! Yippeeeeee!!! It seems like FOREVER he's had all that metal in his mouth but he's done great. It cost a lot (a dollar or two) but looking at his after shots ... TOTALLY WORTH IT!!! He has a beautiful smile. He does have a retainer behind his bottom teeth that will be there forever (apparently that's the way to go) and one for the top teeth that he'll wear for about 2 years. He looks SO different ...

weird, but in a great way.

''''''''''

Do you remember when Calob got his braces?

LOOK HERE ... March 2007.

'''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''

Right before heading into the

orthodontists office

After ... oh my!

Check out those pearly whites!!!
Wearing his retainer.

Thanksgiving Program

2009-12-06T07:41:00.002-08:00

We celebrated Thanksgiving again this year with Sharon, Gord & their girls. I don't have any pictures of the day as the pictures I took were all taken with Sharon's camera. Perhaps she'll share?!? (hint, hint) ☺

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We started the day with a Thanksgiving program at church. Callie had a couple of parts & was SUPER nervous. She actually looked a little sick on the stage ... it was weird. My picture is blurry but it'll have to do. Hope your day was full of things to be thankful for.

Marathon Club Finale

2009-12-05T07:30:00.002-08:00

Callie has completed yet ANOTHER marathon! I am SO proud of her. She participated in the school sponsored program for the 5th year ... one of only 2 kids in her grade to finish all 5 years ... and she finished yet again. In case you forgot how it works, here you go. The kids can run, twice a week during their lunch recess. That means they give up their play time to run. Parents volunteers (including me) mark the cards. They have to finish 5 cards (5 miles on each card which equals 25 miles) during those lunch recesses in order to qualify to run "the final mile" at the high school with the other elementary schools in our town. They then run on an actual track and earn a medal when they finish. It's quite a big deal and an even bigger accomplishment. I commend Callie and all the kids who make the choice!!!

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The weather this year was horrendous. I'm thinking it was even worse than last year. To say the kids got wet is an understatement. They were soaked ... through layers of clothes. Definitely not the ideal night but exercise happens rain or shine (or so I hear). ☺

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My pictures were HORRIBLE this year.

That's Callie ... right in the middle of the picture.

Pausing for a quick picture ... and a bit wet.
With her medal after she finished.

Her sweatshirt is actually a light gray ... but as you can see, it's quite dark here because of all the rain. Lovely. I can't say I'm going to miss the marathon club myself. ☺

Are You On A Boat?!? I Was ...

2009-12-04T06:57:00.004-08:00

Anybody who knows me at all knows that I am not a big boat person. Or a big water person. Or a big dress person. Or a big make-up person. Or a big party person. Or a big social person. So, you put all those things together & I panic. Eek!

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Terence brought home the invitation for his work holiday party and I was not a happy camper. Not only was there a party ... but this party was on a boat ... on the water ... and the boat was going to move. I immediately felt sick to my stomach. I had visions of us hitting an iceberg & going down fast ... kind of like the Titanic. I know you think that's silly but that's definitely how my mind works. Dark & twisty.

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Anyway, usually we can't attend the holiday party because it conflicts with Callie's ballet recitals and we wouldn't miss those. Well, it seems that was a busy time for lots of people so they purposely scheduled the party for November this year so more people could make it. Including us. Lucky us. Anyway, I shopped my butt off (seriously) for a dress, heels & accessories. I'm not a good shopper. Of course, when I'm looking for something, that's when I can't find it. I ended up with 5 dresses, 4 pairs of heels and LOTS of jewelry. Yep, like I said, I'm not a good shopper. I appreciate my friends, especially Jenny, for their support during the shopping process.

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Here are the pictures, the proof really

(a bunch of different ones the kids took),

of me dressed up and on a boat.

Don't expect to see this again. ☺

From the other side

My super groovy green coat!
Me, Marie & Zadian ...

on the boat ... not sinking ...

and not dead. Go figure. ☺

Father/Daughter Dance 2009

2009-12-03T07:04:00.000-08:00

Callie & Terence attended the Father/Daughter dance at Callie's school again this year. It is truly a special night and Callie SO looked forward to it. This year, they went to dinner beforehand with Gordon & Emily ... a double-date if you will ... and that just added to the special evening. Here are pictures ... just a few ... hahaha ... of the night.
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Before dinner & the dance

Callie & Daria

Sharon & I working the treat table

I'm not sure why, but I absolutely LOVE this picture ...

Kelsey, Daria, Callie & Emily

Callie & Kaitlyn

Just Plain Purple

2009-12-02T07:14:00.001-08:00

Halloween this year passed pretty much unnoticed. Calob had NO interest & Callie couldn't decide if she did. One day she wanted to go trick-or-treating ... and then next, she didn't. In the end, she didn't go trick-or-treating. For youth group though, they could dress up if they wanted. Callie wanted to. She wanted to be purple. Purple what, you ask? Just plain purple. Here you go.

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Just Callie in an outfit she thought was

especially groovy so she asked me to take a pic.

Fall Choir Concert

2009-12-01T12:01:00.000-08:00

Calob is, once again, participating in choir. He is now a freshman & is in 2 different choirs at his school. The before-school advanced choir and 4th period choir. He enjoys them both but they are pretty different. The before-school choir is small ... which is good for an advanced choir with only 2 boys. The 4th period choir is one that anyone can join ... MUCH bigger but still only 2 boys. I'm glad that Gio has stuck with choir as well, or else Calob might not be able to at all. I'm not sure 1 guy can carry all the guy parts in any choir.

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Mrs. White introducing the before-school choir

4th period choir

Happy Birthday, Terence!

2009-11-30T21:53:00.004-08:00

Terence turned 43 today ... OLD! ☺ Well, at least he's older than me, and that's all that counts really. We celebrated his birthday early with Gordon,

Sharon & all the kids.

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~Here he is enjoying a Cadillac margarita~

"Will You Be There"

2009-10-18T17:46:00.005-07:00

Calob & the advanced choir sang at the homecoming assembly on Thursday. They sang "Will You Be There" by Michael Jackson. You probably think you don't know the song ... click on the link & listen

to a snippet of it, I bet you do.

Behind the Times

2009-10-11T18:12:00.003-07:00

I'm behind on posting again ... ... but I am going to try to be better. I can't make any promises but I will try ... probably.

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Fried Peanut Butter & Jelly ... yummy!

Wind-blown "C" tree

Callie running at her school's jog-a-thon
Terence & Calob running ... a newer thing for Calob. He's trying to get in shape in case he plays soccer for the high school in the spring ... he's run 4 miles without stopping at his longest distance, which is a huge accomplishment for him! Way to go, Calob!!!
My groovy green nails ... love them!
(ignore the cuticles though please)

Fashion Emergency

2009-09-25T09:05:00.002-07:00

First, look at the lovely leopard

shirt Callie is wearing. Next, check out the

shockingly groovy green leggings she has on.

Finally, the purple shoes. Thank goodness

Tamara is blind. Where are the

fashion police when you need them?

Tamara Sunbathing

2009-09-18T19:57:00.000-07:00

Tamara snoozing in the sun today.

"Tiny Dancer"

2009-09-16T22:14:00.003-07:00

I just love this version of "Tiny Dancer" ...

2 very different musicians making

great music together ... LOVE IT!!!

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Never Forget!

2009-09-11T01:30:00.002-07:00

Hope

2009-09-05T08:30:00.000-07:00

Callie's shirt yesterday

First Day of School 2009

2009-09-02T20:49:00.003-07:00

Calob is now (officially) a high schooler. Today was his first day of high school. I don't think I'm ready for it but Calob seems to be fine. He tells me (as I'm freaking out & worrying tons) "Really mom, it's not that big of a deal." Yeah well, it IS Calob! lol Once again, he is in the advanced choir that meets before school every day @ 6:45 am ...

TOO early if you ask me.

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Calob, the 9th grader, @ 6:30 am

Callie is a 5th grader this year ... and she plans to "rule the school!" hahaha She was SUPER excited to start school this year & I'm SO glad. It's hard to see the kids growing up & especially Callie, because she's my baby. I've heard though, that I don't get a choice in the situation. Whatever ... they should stay small FOREVER!!!
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Calob after school
Callie after school ... check out her
ponytail swinging away!

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Here's a pic of Callie & her teachers on "meet the teacher(s) day" which happened on Tuesday. These are the same teachers Calob had for 5th grade and we truly LOVE them! They are both fantastic ladies who love the kids in their class. We are SUPER excited Callie is in their class!!

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Mrs. P * Callie * Mrs. V

Another Ragnar Relay Success!

2009-08-27T12:29:00.005-07:00

A month ago, July 24-25 (yes, I'm bad), Terence competed in his 3rd Ragnar Relay. His team did great again this year! They finished 4th overall AND 2nd in their division!!! Super fantastic! Here are some team pictures.
After the run ... they're all still standing! Yay!

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On July 29th, we had record heat. I know, people will talk about how hot it is/was where they live and while I don't disagree, this was record-setting heat here. Let's just say, the hottest days EVER! So that means something! Most people here don't have a/c and aren't prepared for heat like this. I felt pretty bad for Tamara too. She was definitely suffering. Someone suggested (I think it was Jerrie) trying a frozen washcloth. Who knows if she liked it or not, but we did try it.

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Close-up of Leo's rocks ... nice & colorful

Callie & I watched "Jaws 3-D" yesterday

Meet Leo ... and a few other things

2009-08-23T20:48:00.003-07:00

Obviously I'm just a smidge behind on posting about all the happenings in our lives. I fell out of the habit & am struggling to get back into the habit. I'll work on it this week ... hopefully!

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One night, while talking to Donna on the phone,

I saw this "scene" in my dish drainer.

Should I be worried? You be the judge! lol

This is Callie before we went out for her family birthday meal @ Red Robin's. The dress is from Grandma Sachi (T's mom) who bought it for her when we were in Hawaii last.
The day before Callie's birthday, she had a special birthday lunch, with her "special" friend Oskar. You may remember when she danced with him at the recital ... or when she received a special gift from him ... they're adorable together!!! He bought her lunch (at her restaurant of choice, which happened to be McD's ... lol) and gave her a gift. Priceless!
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I love the look on her face in this one.
I wish Oskar wasn't blurry, but she's holding
the bracelet he gave her

Oskar & Callie

Here is Callie's new fish, Leo. He isn't purple (as we expected her to pick out) but when we went to PetSmart, this was the one she wanted. He's a Crowntail Betta ... and he's actually quite colorful. I don't know that this picture really does him justice but it's more difficult than I thought it would be, to get a good shot of him.

Happy 10th Birthday Callie!!!

2009-08-19T20:35:00.008-07:00

My baby girl is 10 - WOW! The time sure does pass quick ... much quicker than I ever could have imagined! I have to say, it makes me sad to see my kids growing up so much. Callie is getting ready to start 5th grade & Calob is starting high school. I don't think I'm ready.

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We celebrated her birthday with a party that was hosted by & held at Jennifer's house ... WE LOVE YOU JEN!!! Makenna is Jen's daughter and they were on the same D.I. team this year. Who knew when the D.I. season started that we'd all have bonded so much? I'm SO glad we did though - not many friends would do this for anybody but their own kids!

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Catyler, Kelsey, Makenna, Callie, Kaitlyn & Emily

Callie painting her flowerKaitlyn painting her box
Makenna painting away

Emily painting her box pink - her fave color!

Kelsey concentrating on her flower

Catyler not missing the fine details

Kelsey, Kaitlyn, Emily, Makenna, Catyler & Callie

Jen is going to start teaching kids (and moms too) cake decorating & today was a sort of "practice session" and it was hilarious to watch how the girls decorated their cupcakes. They definitely had fun though & Jen and I enjoyed their final creations!

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Callie

Makenna

Catyler

Kaitlyn

Emily

Kelsey

Jen was kind enough to make Callie's cake as well. The cake was GORGEOUS & oh so yummy, according to Callie (I don't eat chocolate cake myself). We brought the extras home and Terence & Calob totally agreed. ☺

Happy Birthday Callie!

The girls are singing to her here

Making sure her hair is out of the way

while blowing out the candles.

Presents Galore

LOVE this picture!

Makenna gave Callie the other 1/2 of her necklace

Flowers and a fat cat
Aunt Donna

A new outfit for Kit ... the reporter dress

from Grandma Judy!

Calob was planning to get Callie a purple Betta fish ... unfortunately, we drove all over B'ham on Thursday & couldn't find a purple one anywhere. So he gave her the bowl, fish food & rocks for the bowl ... and a voucher to pick out the Betta of her choice. lol

V.B.S. Finale

2009-07-17T22:03:00.005-07:00

I can't even tell you how much fun Callie had at V.B.S. this week. She can't decide if cake decorating or worship dance was her favorite night ... but I'd say she came out a winner all week. It was a GREAT program & Callie (and Makenna too) had a blast!!!

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So last night was cake decorating ... the girls chose to make butterflies. Who knew huh? lol

Callie couldn't stop herself
Tonight the church had a family bbq. They served hot dogs, fruit, chips, etc & had lots of games & fun things for the kids to do. The girls found a tree to climb & we got some great pictures out of it!

Callie even took this pic of Jen & I

Worship Dance @ V.B.S.

2009-07-16T16:57:00.005-07:00

Callie & her friend Makenna have been attending Vacation Bible School each evening this week. It's not a church any of us attend (although Jenny does, "Hi Jenny!") but they offered a totally new & fun program this year. They had a huge list of activities the kids could do. They then chose 8 things and ranked them 1-8, with #1 being the thing they most wanted to do. Then we found out the 4 things they got to do when we took them for the first night. Monday night they did Digital Photography. Tuesday night they did Worship Dance. Last night was Beaded Jewelry. Tonight is Cake Decorating. It's such a huge array of things but so much fun to try new things. As it happened, the Worship Dance that Callie did was taught be her very own ballet teacher, Miss Heather. I wasn't able to see them perform their dance at the end of the night but Terence made sure to record it for me. They did a GREAT job - especially considering they had about 90 minutes to learn the dance. Beautiful for sure!!!

Just in case you didn't know, Callie is the one in black
leggings & the purple and blue shirt.

Raspberries & Ruby

2009-07-11T18:48:00.003-07:00

I'm a bad mom. I don't buy my kids raspberries! I know, you're gasping in shock right now ... well, get over it! lol I don't buy them because I don't like them. Most fruit I buy, I make sure I like because the kids start eating it & then forget about it & guess who (go ahead & try) gets to eat the rest. They had raspberries at Jenny's house earlier this week & thought they were just fabulous. Jenny invited the kids to come pick fresh raspberries off her bush (or is it a plant?) Thursday & they were THRILLED to do so. I brought small bowls for them because I didn't know how many there were ... the bowls were NOT big enough for the amount the kids wanted to pick. They very much enjoyed the picking process & we're so thankful to Jenny for letting us. And, just so you know, I did try one & raspberries just aren't for me.

(Thanks Jenny!!!)

Andrea & her family went camping this week and asked if Callie would water their plants/veggies and also fishsit Jenna's fish, Ruby. She was MORE than happy to do so. She loved having Ruby sitting on our counter to greet her each morning & to watch her eat all her meals. Who knew that fishsitting would be so satisfying? lol Andrea came to pick up Ruby today & we're all missing her a little. It was fun to watch her swim in circles ... oh the exciting life we do lead!! haha

So YOU Think You Can Dance!

2009-07-09T16:37:00.012-07:00

I am new to "So You Think You Can Dance." I've heard about it for years but never jumped on the bandwagon ... until this season. I have been blown away by the talent these dancers have. I have been brought to tears by the tenderness & passion shown. It's been amazing!!! I was talking to my mom today about the show & telling her about my favorite dance of the season ... it was week 2, when Jonathan & Karla danced. I can't explain how much I loved it ... and I was moved by it. Truly amazing!!! I'm sad to say that both dancers have been eliminated but I so HOPE for them both (and especially Jonathan, cutie pie) that they continue to dance & bring joy to others.

Sparklers Rock!!!

2009-07-05T07:48:00.005-07:00

I don't think there are many things in the world that are as simple & fun as sparklers! Yeah, you read that right ... SPARKLERS ROCK!!!

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Callie

Calob

Calob behind Callie
Me

Terence

Purple Rain

Mum's Visit Pics

2009-07-04T19:30:00.002-07:00

Happy 4th of July!!!

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Here's some pics from my mom's visit - and these are all from her camera (I'm not sure why but I just didn't take pictures this visit)

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Calob, Mums & Callie

(Calob has DEFINITELY grown from last year)

Mums & Me @ Woods

My family

Mums & Me

Mums @ Starbuck's

(Callie took this pic)

As the School Year Ends ...

2009-07-01T07:15:00.003-07:00

... all those "end of the year" celebrations take place. At Callie's school, they have "Field Day" every year. It's basically fun games that require physical activity in all of them. Not exactly my idea of a good time ... but whatever works for the kids. :)

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Daria & Callie ready to begin

Callie running
Callie jumping

Callie landing ...

exciting stuff, huh? lol

Callie & Daria

Mrs. M & Callie on the last day of school

... oh how we'll miss her!

It was "Green & Gold" day ... but apparently

we forgot to read that part of the newsletter! lol

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Alyssa, Callie, Daria, Jenna, Kelsey & Catyler

Alyssa, Kelsey, Callie, Daria & Jenna

@ Dairy Queen ... treats for all!!!

(and even a little skin shown by Callie ... lol)

Callie is now a 5th grader & Calob is a 9th grader ... eek!

Posing in the Park ... Ballet Style

2009-06-28T11:03:00.001-07:00

After the recital on Saturday night, we took Callie to the park for some shots. I wish I could do this after every recital, but unfortunately, it doesn't work in the winter. :) Enjoy!

Spring 2009 Recital Night

2009-06-25T09:23:00.004-07:00

This first picture was taken by Calob at the dress rehearsal. I like how Callie is kinda going to the side ... a funky shot.

The rest of the pictures were taken Saturday night, when I was a helper mom backstage & my mom was a helper grandmother.

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The girls before they danced

Taylor, Callie, Lindsey, Anna, Elea & Kaarina

Proper ballerinas??

My mom took this one ... sorry about the redeye
This is the start of Callie's dance on Saturday night. The lighting was incredible! They didn't light it like this on the night of the dress rehearsal so when we watched (from the audience) Friday night it was really a great surprise. It just fit with the music, the dance ... everything. These 2 pictures were taken from the wings, backstage ... so they aren't great.

Callie & Oskar
Oskar & Callie :)

Callie & Me

Grandma Judy & Callie

2009 Spring Dress Rehearsal

2009-06-23T12:35:00.002-07:00

2 weeks ago Callie's spring dress rehearsal was held. The girls in Callie's class (all 6 of them) really shined for the dress rehearsal. They've come SO far since they started dancing & were truly beautiful to watch. I think it's definitely the best I've seen the class dance ... I was quite proud!!!

<><><><><><><><><>

Kaarina & Callie before they danced

The beginning of their dance

(Callie is front left)
The end of the dance

As usual, I couldn't narrow down the pictures I wanted to post as there were so many good ones. I did a few mosaics so I could post more without burning your eyes ... you are welcome! lol

Where have YOU been?

2009-06-21T12:28:00.010-07:00

OK, I suppose the better question is where have I been? Well, I've been here ... seriously. I think I sort of stopped blogging because there wasn't a whole lot of exciting things going on. Then when Callie's recital came around I found out my hard drive was full - oops! So we had to buy an extra hard drive to put pictures on. We're working on all of it & while it's not all taken care of YET, I will post some older pictures that seem to have been forgotten by me. Oops again. I guess I'll use Callie's favorite phrase here ... "Oops, my bad!"

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So, Jerrie has taken up exercising ... and here's a picture because I needed PROOF to show people. lol Way to go Jerrie ... better you than me! ☺

Calob's last choir concert of the year happened back in May. Here he is, introducing the last song of the concert.

"Wheel to School" day happened and Callie was SO happy to participate when Andrea called to ask if Callie wanted to wheel with the girls (and Jason & Alex).

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Jenna, Callie & Kelsey

The whole crew, including Jason & Alex

Both kids participated in our local parade. Calob with choir & Callie with ballet. Calob sat on the wrong side of the float for me to get any good pictures so he looks a little funky here, but that's alright ... he is a bit funky (so very much my kid)! lol

The banner on his float

Callie's float w/the windmill in the background

Callie is 4th from the right in the turqouise

Calob & Callie after the parade

Oskar & Callie

Callie has a summer birthday as do MANY kids in her class. Kylie's mom was nice enough to get a cake to celebrate all the birthday's for the kids & their teacher. Cool cake!

At the end of the year Callie's school has an all-school picnic followed by a tug-of-war. The kids compete against the other classes in their grade. It was Hawaiian day, which explains why Callie is wearing a lei and a grass skirt. ☺

Here's Callie's class (and Teacher too) cheering

after they won ... 4th grade champs!

2009 "Ta-Da" @ Globals

2009-06-03T06:52:00.003-07:00

I took a video of the girls when they were performing their "Ta-Da" at the D.I. Global Finals. It's not a great video (you can't hear them very well) BUT it's better than nothing. The girls are so cute ... if only there was no other sound so we could really hear them.

2009 D.I. Globals Recap!!!

2009-05-29T18:52:00.009-07:00

We are back from Knoxville & oh so exhausted but we are slowly recovering. Callie's team finished 15th out of 60 teams. They did good but could've done SO much better (they totally bombed on their instant challenge) ... it's a great finish when you consider they are 15th in the world ... rock on girls!!! I didn't take as many pictures as last year but still took plenty. Enjoy!

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Pin Trading

Callie, Catyler, Kelsey, Emily, Makenna, Liz & Kira

Kelsey, Liz, Makenna, Catyler, Callie, Kira & Emily

Me & Callie @ World's Fair Park

Makenna, Emily, Catyler & Callie

~jumping for joy~

Central Challenge ... TEAMWORK!!!

Liz, Emily, Callie, Catyler, Kelsey & Makenna

~singing their "Nate the Great" song~

Callie, Catyler & Makenna

Callie & Emily after their central challenge

Getting their results

Mrs. R (the coaching queen) & Callie

Callie & Me

Callie @ the Sunsphere

Preparing their "Ta-Da"

Heading into the Instant Challenge

Performing their "Ta-Da"

"Ta-Da"

Celebrating Andrea's birthday, the 1st time

~Jennifer, Barb, Dawn, Sharon, Andrea & Me~

Celebrating Andrea's birthday, the 2nd time

~with Beau, the waiter~

Callie & Emily racing

Callie wins!!! (sorry Emily)

Playing volleyball

Nighttime pin trading

Jennifer & Me

~our fearless chaperone~

Fun at the Sonic drive-up

~Me, Andrea, Barb, Sharon & Dawn~

Makenna & Callie

~playing at World's Fair Park~

Callie & Makenna

Cool sauce display @ Taco Bell

Before closing ceremonies started
Callie & Me @ closing ceremonies

Callie & 1 of the MANY balls flying through the air

during the closing ceremonies

Callie talking to someone special

Wasting time before we headed to the airport

~the girls having their own

version of "Survivor" I think

Makenna, Kelsey, Callie & Catyler~

I SO wish the whole team was here for this pic ...

I truly LOVE it!!!

~Catyler, Makenna, Kelsey & Callie~

Callie hanging in the tree

Another day, Another haircut

2009-05-17T19:17:00.005-07:00

I've been planning to get my haircut again to donate it to "Locks of Love" but have been SO busy lately that I didn't know if I'd be able to get it done before we went to Tennessee for the Destination Imagination Global Finals. Luckily I had a chance today so Sharon & I headed out to get the deed done. Sharon had never gone with me before to donate my hair so it was fun and a nice little outing before our big trip. If YOU can grow hair, I seriously suggest you donate your hair too. This is my 4th time donating & even Callie has done it twice. I realize not everyone can grow their hair like me (one of my talents ... ha) but if you can, please do so!!!

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My official before shot

Not the best behind shot ... my hair is really

curly so it's kind of hard to see the real

length of it with all the lovely frizz

This one, while my hair is wet, shows the length
much better than when it's dry
The first cut
14 inches

This is my favorite shot

My official after shot

♥♥♥ Saying Good-Bye to Samson ♥♥♥

2009-05-16T12:33:00.006-07:00

♥ Samson♥

5/30/1995 - 5/16/2009

*****

It has barely been a month since we lost Nalu & inexplicably we are doing it again, only this time we are saying good-bye to Samson. His kidneys are failing him & he's not doing well at all. He was fine ... but took a sudden turn this week. I knew he wasn't acting like himself ... talking constantly (seriously), following us around, eating tons and tons of food and being an all-around, in your-face-kind-of-kitty ... but I just couldn't have imagined we'd be facing the loss of another cat so soon after Nalu (6 weeks ago). There is NO way to accurately describe the companion that Samson has been over the years. Let's just say he's always been there ... and I can't imagine him NOT being there now.

*****

These were taken today at the vet, when I

took the kids to say good-bye to Samson

*****

Samson (with Nalu in the background) On Panty patrol Hanging w/Gillian A special moment w/Blue Samson R.I.P. ... we miss you already!!!

Tulips Everywhere!!!

2009-05-01T07:00:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday we made our annual trek to the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. The tulips bloomed late this year because of our late spring but they were definitely worth the wait. I have to say, I am NOT a flower person, but I definitely appreciate the fields of gorgeous colors. I just love it!

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I've recently started "talking" to my cousin, Justin, via Facebook. He & his family live near Bellevue and wanted to meet up with us at the tulip festival. This is a younger cousin who I haven't seen in about 25+ years so I was thrilled to be able to "meet" him again & meet his family. It was great to catch up & see who he is now - as an adult (weird). Last time we saw each other I was taller than him ... no more. Not even close! lol

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Our family picture

Justin's family

Juene, Justin, Eva & Amie (who is pregnant)

Callie & Calob

Me & Terence

Calob, Eva, Callie & Juene

Juene ... so cute
After we left the tulip festival we decided to head to Bob's Burger & Brew, just outside of Burlington, to hang out some more & eat. It really was a great day. Eva & Callie seemed to really hit it off as well.

Juene, Justin & me ... Justin is SO tall!!!

R.I.P. Grandma

2009-04-30T21:54:00.003-07:00

We had a HUGE loss in our family today. Terence's grandma passed away after a very long life. She lived a great life & left so many fabulous memories to her children, grandchildren & great-grandchildren. Terence won't be able to make it to the funeral but his heart will definitely be there. Please say a prayer for Terence's family as they deal with their grief and as we all say good-bye to grandma.

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♥R.I.P. Grandma♥

Padilla Bay Field Trip

2009-04-30T07:50:00.003-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, Callie's class went to Padilla Bay for a field trip ... they were studying estuaries in class and got to see them up close & personal on this field trip. It was SUPER cold & windy. I'm not sure we could've had enough layers to actually keep us warm ... but we huddled together & did our best.

- - - - - - - - - -

Callie's group

Anne, Daria, Aranza, Callie & Sara

Callie ready to dig
Digging for treasures
I just love this picture
In one of the learning centers ...
doesn't the look on her face
crack you up? ... lol

Texas Finale

2009-04-20T08:35:00.004-07:00

I think these are the rest of the pictures from our trip to Texas. There are 3 groups based on who took them. The first set is from Callie's camera (our old one) ... she had fun taking pics.

__________

With the first cake she EVER made

(with lots of help from Aunt Lainey)

Dairy Queen
Riverwalk
Me at the homestead

____________________

These pics are from my dad's camera

__________

Callie with a cow

Callie & Ariel w/the cows

Terence, Calob & Callie @ Bob Miller's

Calob playing "old school" video games

Callie with the dogs

Playing Dutch Blitz

____________________

From my purse camera

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Callie & Ariel @ The Alamo

Bill & Terence chillin' under the camper

The amount of miles I drove ... oh my! 610 ... eek!

On our flight from San Antonio to Dallas there was the body of a fallen soldier on board. I noticed the escort before the flight (T was actually talking to him) and wondered if that was why he didn't have any baggage. The pilot and flight attendants both spoke about the honor they felt in transporting the body to it's final resting place. We were on the same plane, same seats, etc. for the flight from Dallas to Seattle so we were able to watch the proceedings out the windows. It was emotional to say the least.

That is the pilot helping to move the body