Though we had planned on having Lacy babysit and eat dinner at the Olive Garden, the plans for our anniversary changed when I went into labor nearly three weeks early. Cole was born on the exact day of . . . which is now why we juggle every year to keep his birthday both separate from Christmas and separate from our anniversary.
Such a sweet little anniversary and Christmas gift. The joke at the hospital was I had gotten a little coal in my stocking. We were thankful he came so early. I wasn’t really due until January 4th, so it was an extra bonus having him with us as we celebrated the holidays—not to mention making it in time for a tax-deduction. :)
I hardly need to describe this sweet, happy child to you. If you are a regular reader of Hazel and Blue you know—he provides more than an ample supply of posts with his antics. This little guy keeps us in stitches and makes parenting very fun. He is also VERY excited about the birthday party we’re having for him later today.
Happy Birthday Cole! We love you very, very much!
Sunday, December 17, 2006
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Little D
Many of you have asked about Little D. He came into our lives while recovering from severe injuries to his brain as a result of child abuse. He wasn’t yet two.
We picked him up at a hospital in Dallas where they taught us how to feed him through a feeding tube and how to work with him on relearning skills like crawling, walking, swallowing and talking. Though born a perfect, healthy child, the doctors didn’t actually think he would live when as a last resort they removed a large portion of his skull in order for his brain to continue swelling. Miraculously Little D did pull through.
We weren’t really sure if we could handle the extreme measures it would require to care for Little D, but after praying about it God gave both David and I one verse, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me (Matthew 25:40).” It was that verse that daily got us through sleepless nights, numerous trips to Dallas hospitals, the lengthy surgery and hospital stay to replace the missing piece in his skull, the criminal trial for his abuser and most of all saying goodbye. We had Little D for 8 months.
Though I could write a book, I find it hard to condense into a few paragraphs the impact little D has had on our lives. For myself, it is by far the most significant and hardest thing I have ever done—and the most rewarding. I would do it again in a heartbeat.
Tomorrow Little D and his two younger siblings are being adopted by his forever family. We feel really good about this wonderful Christian family and know God is watching over him.
They have graciously agreed to let us continue to be in Little D’s life—for which we are immeasurably grateful. I talked with Little D on the phone just a few days ago. He is doing remarkable well and is even going to preschool. Doctors are hopeful he will recover fully physically and mentally. He is currently living like any other normal three year old.
We love you Little D. We pray tomorrow will be the first of many happy days for you and your new family.
We picked him up at a hospital in Dallas where they taught us how to feed him through a feeding tube and how to work with him on relearning skills like crawling, walking, swallowing and talking. Though born a perfect, healthy child, the doctors didn’t actually think he would live when as a last resort they removed a large portion of his skull in order for his brain to continue swelling. Miraculously Little D did pull through.
We weren’t really sure if we could handle the extreme measures it would require to care for Little D, but after praying about it God gave both David and I one verse, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me (Matthew 25:40).” It was that verse that daily got us through sleepless nights, numerous trips to Dallas hospitals, the lengthy surgery and hospital stay to replace the missing piece in his skull, the criminal trial for his abuser and most of all saying goodbye. We had Little D for 8 months.
Though I could write a book, I find it hard to condense into a few paragraphs the impact little D has had on our lives. For myself, it is by far the most significant and hardest thing I have ever done—and the most rewarding. I would do it again in a heartbeat.
Tomorrow Little D and his two younger siblings are being adopted by his forever family. We feel really good about this wonderful Christian family and know God is watching over him.
They have graciously agreed to let us continue to be in Little D’s life—for which we are immeasurably grateful. I talked with Little D on the phone just a few days ago. He is doing remarkable well and is even going to preschool. Doctors are hopeful he will recover fully physically and mentally. He is currently living like any other normal three year old.
We love you Little D. We pray tomorrow will be the first of many happy days for you and your new family.
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
A Fascinating Day in the Life of a Paramecium
Ashley has some talents. She can spin a hula hoop on her hips longer than anyone I’ve ever met—her specialty is three at a time. She likes to study joke books and make people laugh whenever possible. She can write entertaining stories and has quite the collection filling up journals in her room. When told she had to write a story involving three single-celled microscopic organisms for Science class, this is what she came up with:
Once upon a time there was a paramecium named Sally. Her best friend was Bob the amoeba. They always played superheroes at recess. But one day very soon they would really have to save the day.
That day was Friday. Friday was pizza day and the pizza guy got swallowed by a volvox and couldn’t get out.
So Sally and Bob came to the rescue. They dressed up in their superhero costumes and went to find the volvox. Finally after two hours they spotted the volvox with the pizza guy screaming like a girl. They laughed at him. He didn’t laugh back.
Sally and Bob surrounded the volvox and caught him. They pulled out the pizza guy and then Sally and Bob split the volvox and ate him. The End.
Once upon a time there was a paramecium named Sally. Her best friend was Bob the amoeba. They always played superheroes at recess. But one day very soon they would really have to save the day.
That day was Friday. Friday was pizza day and the pizza guy got swallowed by a volvox and couldn’t get out.
So Sally and Bob came to the rescue. They dressed up in their superhero costumes and went to find the volvox. Finally after two hours they spotted the volvox with the pizza guy screaming like a girl. They laughed at him. He didn’t laugh back.
Sally and Bob surrounded the volvox and caught him. They pulled out the pizza guy and then Sally and Bob split the volvox and ate him. The End.
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Last Minute Everything
Pretty much it’s the story of our lives.
We were sitting at a pizza place with Ashley and her basketball team following a game against a Catholic school in Tyler. We lost—but that’s a sad subject for another day.
David’s phone rang—it was Jonathan. Just as he was climbing into bed he remembered—he and Ashley needed costumes for tomorrow . . . “Something in the Rainforest.”
It’s 7:10pm! We’re not home; we’re just now hearing this?! What to do for costumes of “Something in the Rainforest” by morning!?
Do other parents share my frustration about these things!? Isn’t raising four kids, getting them to and from a private school located 30 miles away, sacrificing dearly so they can be involved in extracurricular activities, blah, blah, blah enough!? Do we have to be creative too?
We rack our brains. What animals are even in the Rainforest!? We do a Walmart run—any costumes? None. We call the relatives—nothing.
Defeated in the great mom department, I took a last stop into the laundry room before going to bed. Lightbulb moment! There were the camouflage outfits they had worn on the last ESOAL Retreat. Ashley and Jonathan went to school as “Guerrillas Explorers in the Rainforest” . . . and they think I rock!
We were sitting at a pizza place with Ashley and her basketball team following a game against a Catholic school in Tyler. We lost—but that’s a sad subject for another day.
David’s phone rang—it was Jonathan. Just as he was climbing into bed he remembered—he and Ashley needed costumes for tomorrow . . . “Something in the Rainforest.”
It’s 7:10pm! We’re not home; we’re just now hearing this?! What to do for costumes of “Something in the Rainforest” by morning!?
Do other parents share my frustration about these things!? Isn’t raising four kids, getting them to and from a private school located 30 miles away, sacrificing dearly so they can be involved in extracurricular activities, blah, blah, blah enough!? Do we have to be creative too?
We rack our brains. What animals are even in the Rainforest!? We do a Walmart run—any costumes? None. We call the relatives—nothing.
Defeated in the great mom department, I took a last stop into the laundry room before going to bed. Lightbulb moment! There were the camouflage outfits they had worn on the last ESOAL Retreat. Ashley and Jonathan went to school as “
Monday, December 11, 2006
The Show Must Go On
Yesterday we were walking out the door heading to church when Jonathan stopped in the doorway and cried out in a panic, “Mom, Cole is suppose to dress up like an angel!”
After confirming with Ashley this truly was the case, David scrambled to find something long and white and I went looking for gold ribbon. Amazingly, we completed his costume in all of about 3 minutes—which was perfect—we only had 3 minutes in order to get to church on time.
With such quick thinking and ingenuity one might assume we were going to pull that last minute glitch off without a hitch . . . it was not to be. Cole began sobbing, “But I don’t want to be an angel.” Seeing how it was real tears falling down his sweet, cherub cheeks I did what every good mom would do in such a sticky, time restraining situation: “Cole, if you go as an angel, Mommy will give you a really great surprise.”
Cole looked up at me with hopeful eyes. Between sniffles he asked, “A great surprise, Mommy?” “Yes Cole, a really great surprise.”
So don’t go calling CPS on me, or giving me books on parenting for Christmas, it’s just a fact of life—bribery works! Besides, we now have really cute pictures of our little angel, and our little angel has one of the many “surprises” intended for his stocking.
After confirming with Ashley this truly was the case, David scrambled to find something long and white and I went looking for gold ribbon. Amazingly, we completed his costume in all of about 3 minutes—which was perfect—we only had 3 minutes in order to get to church on time.
With such quick thinking and ingenuity one might assume we were going to pull that last minute glitch off without a hitch . . . it was not to be. Cole began sobbing, “But I don’t want to be an angel.” Seeing how it was real tears falling down his sweet, cherub cheeks I did what every good mom would do in such a sticky, time restraining situation: “Cole, if you go as an angel, Mommy will give you a really great surprise.”
Cole looked up at me with hopeful eyes. Between sniffles he asked, “A great surprise, Mommy?” “Yes Cole, a really great surprise.”
So don’t go calling CPS on me, or giving me books on parenting for Christmas, it’s just a fact of life—bribery works! Besides, we now have really cute pictures of our little angel, and our little angel has one of the many “surprises” intended for his stocking.
Friday, December 08, 2006
Almost Perfect
Every year it’s a battle. David loves the Denver Broncos . . . which is why we own this crazy Denver Broncos Christmas ornament. I like our tree to be uniform throughout with coordinating Christmas decorations. Did you notice the colors on this particular ornament—orange and blue! Doesn’t exactly blend with all of the red and gold on our tree.
So while I keep hiding this ornament toward the back, someone keeps moving it to a prominent place in the front. This has been our Christmas routine for several years. Any suggestions?
So while I keep hiding this ornament toward the back, someone keeps moving it to a prominent place in the front. This has been our Christmas routine for several years. Any suggestions?
Monday, December 04, 2006
What A Guy!
Dear President Bush,
I have a new baby brother. His name is Nicholas Walker. I thought this might interest you because my mom and dad named him after you.
He is 10 weeks old, very cute and chubby. He thinks you are the man! He is very excited that he was named after such a great president!
I’m praying for you. May I have a picture?
Your fan,
Ashley
I have a new baby brother. His name is Nicholas Walker. I thought this might interest you because my mom and dad named him after you.
He is 10 weeks old, very cute and chubby. He thinks you are the man! He is very excited that he was named after such a great president!
I’m praying for you. May I have a picture?
Your fan,
Ashley
Dear Ashley,
We welcome baby Nicholas! We are delighted to join your family in celebrating his arrival. He has already brought much happiness to those around him, and he has just gotten started!
Nicholas, we are glad you are now part of the wonderful American story. Our Nation holds great opportunities for you. May you make the most of your unique gifts and may happiness and love surround you always.
Thank you for remembering me in your prayers. Prayer gives us the opportunity to thank God for His many blessings. During this time in our Nation’s history, we pray for the safety of the men and women who fight for our freedom and for peace around the world.
May God bless you, and may God continue to bless America.
Sincerely,
George and Laura Bush
Nicholas, we are glad you are now part of the wonderful American story. Our Nation holds great opportunities for you. May you make the most of your unique gifts and may happiness and love surround you always.
Thank you for remembering me in your prayers. Prayer gives us the opportunity to thank God for His many blessings. During this time in our Nation’s history, we pray for the safety of the men and women who fight for our freedom and for peace around the world.
May God bless you, and may God continue to bless America.
Sincerely,
George and Laura Bush
Friday, December 01, 2006
Setting It Straight
We’re having a snowday—not that there is any snow on the ground . . . East Texas FREAKS when inclement weather is as much as a state away! Even though we could have slept in, these are the little darlings that STILL were up before the crack of dawn.
As promised, I’m now revealing all:
1. I really did go to Ball State University—it was a total of 30 minutes from the house I grew up in.
2. The camp I attended during high school was awesome! One of the highlights of my life.
3. You all are so kind . . . but YES, David dances circles around me in the IQ area.
4. Some friends and I really were interrogated by the KGB. All of us were also quite thankful for our American passports—which is likely what kept us from being detained in the slammer! (Three hours in a Russian jail was the lie . . . just in case you missed it.)
5. If you have ever traveled as a single female in a second or third world country, you know those proposals have nothing to do with your looks, charm or personality—once again the American passport is key!
6. It was last Christmas. David and I were Ron and Katie’s guests . . . and it was a blast! Since I had already watched the annual HGTV special of the decorating of the White House (In my opinion a MUST on your holiday to do list) I was the token expert with vast amounts of knowledge of all the little tidbits behind what we were seeing.
And just because it’s my blog and I’ll do it if I want to . . . I also tag Lily, Leah, Lacy and J-Lynn!
As promised, I’m now revealing all:
1. I really did go to Ball State University—it was a total of 30 minutes from the house I grew up in.
2. The camp I attended during high school was awesome! One of the highlights of my life.
3. You all are so kind . . . but YES, David dances circles around me in the IQ area.
4. Some friends and I really were interrogated by the KGB. All of us were also quite thankful for our American passports—which is likely what kept us from being detained in the slammer! (Three hours in a Russian jail was the lie . . . just in case you missed it.)
5. If you have ever traveled as a single female in a second or third world country, you know those proposals have nothing to do with your looks, charm or personality—once again the American passport is key!
6. It was last Christmas. David and I were Ron and Katie’s guests . . . and it was a blast! Since I had already watched the annual HGTV special of the decorating of the White House (In my opinion a MUST on your holiday to do list) I was the token expert with vast amounts of knowledge of all the little tidbits behind what we were seeing.
And just because it’s my blog and I’ll do it if I want to . . . I also tag Lily, Leah, Lacy and J-Lynn!
Thursday, November 30, 2006
It’s No Longer Quiet On The Western Front
Irregardless of the fact I’m boring to the point even the skeletons in my closet are yawning, Michelle has tagged me to reveal five things most people don’t know about me. Just for fun I’m listing six: Five are true and one’s a lie. Cast your votes for the falsehood, after which I’ll reveal all—including Michelle’s secret top three. Just kidding on the latter (breathe Michelle) . . . I’m not actually privy to such.
1. I graduated from David Letterman’s alma mater. Since you cannot have a gradepoint average greater than a C, I didn’t qualify for a David Letterman scholarship. And because I have always been kind of your basic B student, I didn’t qualify for too many academic scholarships either. I paid for my education the old fashioned way—work study program and student loans. Go Cardinals!
2. But I did once win a scholarship to sing and dance at a show choir camp. The choreographer was the genius behind the really cool Dr. Pepper commercials way back in the day. Since I’m pretty sure the camps were really fronts for finding new commercial talent, and since they FAILED to cast me doing backflips and singing I’m a pepper—I guess I lacked that certain pizzazz . . . not to mention the fact I’ve never been able to actually do a backflip. I’m over it. I don’t even LIKE Dr. Pepper!
3. I married up. David is way smarter than me. Though I occasionally beat him at a game of scrabble, it is only because I RELIGIOUSLY study the scrabble dictionary.
4. Once in a cold, stark gray cement room with a lone florescent, buzzing overhead light, I was interrogated by the KGB and actually spent three hours in a Russian jail.
5. Including random and complete strangers in second and third-world countries, I’ve been proposed to a total of seven times.
6. I was once invited to dine (black-tie) at the White House . . . which later turned out to be only hors d’oeuvres . . . which even later turned out to be only a tour of the White House Christmas decorations. Even though I paid dearly for the dress our beloved First Family never got to see, it was one of the best weekends of my life.
I tag Ginger, Karen, Molly and Shanygne.
1. I graduated from David Letterman’s alma mater. Since you cannot have a gradepoint average greater than a C, I didn’t qualify for a David Letterman scholarship. And because I have always been kind of your basic B student, I didn’t qualify for too many academic scholarships either. I paid for my education the old fashioned way—work study program and student loans. Go Cardinals!
2. But I did once win a scholarship to sing and dance at a show choir camp. The choreographer was the genius behind the really cool Dr. Pepper commercials way back in the day. Since I’m pretty sure the camps were really fronts for finding new commercial talent, and since they FAILED to cast me doing backflips and singing I’m a pepper—I guess I lacked that certain pizzazz . . . not to mention the fact I’ve never been able to actually do a backflip. I’m over it. I don’t even LIKE Dr. Pepper!
3. I married up. David is way smarter than me. Though I occasionally beat him at a game of scrabble, it is only because I RELIGIOUSLY study the scrabble dictionary.
4. Once in a cold, stark gray cement room with a lone florescent, buzzing overhead light, I was interrogated by the KGB and actually spent three hours in a Russian jail.
5. Including random and complete strangers in second and third-world countries, I’ve been proposed to a total of seven times.
6. I was once invited to dine (black-tie) at the White House . . . which later turned out to be only hors d’oeuvres . . . which even later turned out to be only a tour of the White House Christmas decorations. Even though I paid dearly for the dress our beloved First Family never got to see, it was one of the best weekends of my life.
I tag Ginger, Karen, Molly and Shanygne.
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
The Budding Photographer
Cole: (age 3) Mom, quick, I need your camera!
Me: Why is that Cole?
Cole: I want to take a picture of Max and Ruby!
Me: Why is that Cole?
Cole: I want to take a picture of Max and Ruby!
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Dinnertime Details
Over the weekend we purchased a really great highchair. By the time you get to child number four, you kind of figure out what’s great and what’s not so great in baby paraphernalia. I won’t bore you with my lists of what works and what doesn’t, but suffice it to say—I LOVE this highchair.
Even though Nicholas is only three months old, he can sit in it safely and even join us at the dinner table . . . which he did last night for the very first time. While David was saying grace, Cole interrupted quite loudly with, “Hey Guys!!”
Me: “Cole, what is it? We’re praying.”
Cole: “Nicholas didn’t close his eyes!”
Even though Nicholas is only three months old, he can sit in it safely and even join us at the dinner table . . . which he did last night for the very first time. While David was saying grace, Cole interrupted quite loudly with, “Hey Guys!!”
Me: “Cole, what is it? We’re praying.”
Cole: “Nicholas didn’t close his eyes!”
Monday, November 27, 2006
Everybody Needs A Favorite
Ice cream isn’t one of my more favorite foods, which is probably why you seldom see it in our freezer. The other day Cole was watching one of his beloved shows on television. When Zee asked, “What is your favorite flavor of ice cream?” the following interaction ensued.
Cole: “Mom, what is my favorite flavor of ice cream?”
Me: “I don’t know Cole. Do you like chocolate ice cream?”
Cole: “I don’t know. I’ve never tried it.”
This of course made me realize I’m a really bad mom . . . and it also resulted in my first purchase of chocolate ice cream—Cole’s new favorite!
Cole: “Mom, what is my favorite flavor of ice cream?”
Me: “I don’t know Cole. Do you like chocolate ice cream?”
Cole: “I don’t know. I’ve never tried it.”
This of course made me realize I’m a really bad mom . . . and it also resulted in my first purchase of chocolate ice cream—Cole’s new favorite!
Friday, November 24, 2006
So Happy Together
Jonathan got to spend the night with his cousins the night before Thanksgiving. Cole had a very hard time with him being gone.
Last night Jonathan was back in his own bed . . . we found Cole there as well.
Last night Jonathan was back in his own bed . . . we found Cole there as well.
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Happy Thanksgiving!
I love Thanksgiving. It was the night before Thanksgiving fourteen years ago when David and I had our first date. Funny how one little decision affects so many others. We are so thankful for the many ways God has blessed us.
We hope your Thanksgiving is filled with good food, lots of fun and thankful hearts.
We hope your Thanksgiving is filled with good food, lots of fun and thankful hearts.
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Calling All Geeks!
Tis almost the season to be decking the halls. Instead I’m stuck in a computer induced pity party whining woe is me. Google HATES me! Every time I click in to Goggle-owned sites, my computer freeeeeezes up! And now many of my daily reads are switching to Blogger in Beta—owned by Google!!
This does not make my world merry. Can anyone help? Why is my computer allergic to Google? I’m getting weary of doing the force-quit thing.
Since Google is buying up everything related to revenue in the blogasphere (oh to own their stock), I really need to figure this out. According to the sidebar site meter there are over a hundred of you clicking in each day. Are any of you geek-enough to solve mylittle, frustrating, I want to throw my computer off the roof, issue?
My computer is a Mac OS X version 10.4 with a Safari browser and I’m using AOL dial-up. Though I’m guessing dial-up is the most likely culprit, I’m really hoping it’s not. Since we live in themiddle of freaking nowhere, beautiful, quaint countryside, the only way we can get high-speed internet is to mortgage the farm . . . and we don’t actually own a farm.
So come on Geeks. Pleeeaaase click the comment button bringing glad tidings my way. Educate me in the finer details of blogging bliss and save my computer from demise!
This does not make my world merry. Can anyone help? Why is my computer allergic to Google? I’m getting weary of doing the force-quit thing.
Since Google is buying up everything related to revenue in the blogasphere (oh to own their stock), I really need to figure this out. According to the sidebar site meter there are over a hundred of you clicking in each day. Are any of you geek-enough to solve my
My computer is a Mac OS X version 10.4 with a Safari browser and I’m using AOL dial-up. Though I’m guessing dial-up is the most likely culprit, I’m really hoping it’s not. Since we live in the
So come on Geeks. Pleeeaaase click the comment button bringing glad tidings my way. Educate me in the finer details of blogging bliss and save my computer from demise!
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Sometimes You’ve Got To Settle
Usually the sun is barely up by the time Cole wants to be out the door driving one of his many vehicles. The other day, before he was even dressed, I found him in the garage musing over his myriad of choices.
“Which one do you want to start with?” I asked.
Cole: I want to drive your van, Mom.
Me: Cole, you know you’re too little to drive Mommy’s van!
Cole: Okay, I’ll drive Daddy’s car.
Me: Cole, you know you’re too little to drive Daddy’s car!
Cole: Okay (with resignation) . . . I’ll drive my Corvette.
“Which one do you want to start with?” I asked.
Cole: I want to drive your van, Mom.
Me: Cole, you know you’re too little to drive Mommy’s van!
Cole: Okay, I’ll drive Daddy’s car.
Me: Cole, you know you’re too little to drive Daddy’s car!
Cole: Okay (with resignation) . . . I’ll drive my Corvette.
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Salt And Pepper
These dogs have been at our house for about a week. They came hungry, dirty and collarless. I’m thinking someone dropped them off.
Our kids have become quite attached and already have them named. Why do things like this always seem to happen to us!!?
One could not accurately place David or I in the category of “dog lovers.” We have actually paid large amounts of money for dogs and then later given them to, uh um better dog homes? We’re not so good with pets, but of course, these dogs have already wormed their way into Ashley, Jonathan and Cole’s hearts.
They bark at night, they desperately need a bath, but all in all they are rather sweet.
So pleeeaaase, if they are yours—or if you simply want them—rescue us from becoming dog owners again!
Our kids have become quite attached and already have them named. Why do things like this always seem to happen to us!!?
One could not accurately place David or I in the category of “dog lovers.” We have actually paid large amounts of money for dogs and then later given them to, uh um better dog homes? We’re not so good with pets, but of course, these dogs have already wormed their way into Ashley, Jonathan and Cole’s hearts.
They bark at night, they desperately need a bath, but all in all they are rather sweet.
So pleeeaaase, if they are yours—or if you simply want them—rescue us from becoming dog owners again!
Monday, November 13, 2006
Reason Number 457
. . . of why I love my husband!
Last night we were on our way to a birthday party for one of Jonathan’s friends when we passed two young girls on the side of the road with a flat tire. Even though we were running late, David turned around to see if they needed help.
We knew they were probably among the 700 or so teenagers David feels very fatherly toward. But even when they’re not, David always stops when someone needs help. I can’t even tell you how many times he has pushed a stalled car out of the middle of four lanes of traffic, provided a jump or use of his cell phone.
As it turned out, they didn’t have a jack—and they were interns. David changed the tire very quickly, and we made it to the party in just enough time to be fashionably late.
I love it that David always has time to lend a hand.
Last night we were on our way to a birthday party for one of Jonathan’s friends when we passed two young girls on the side of the road with a flat tire. Even though we were running late, David turned around to see if they needed help.
We knew they were probably among the 700 or so teenagers David feels very fatherly toward. But even when they’re not, David always stops when someone needs help. I can’t even tell you how many times he has pushed a stalled car out of the middle of four lanes of traffic, provided a jump or use of his cell phone.
As it turned out, they didn’t have a jack—and they were interns. David changed the tire very quickly, and we made it to the party in just enough time to be fashionably late.
I love it that David always has time to lend a hand.
Saturday, November 11, 2006
Friday, November 10, 2006
The Negotiator
Chuck E. Cheese’s is overpriced and the food is less than mediocre . . . but my kid’s love it.
So a few days ago when the kids were out of school for fall break and since David had the day off, we decided to take them to Chuck E. Cheese’s for lunch. My sister and her daughter met us there.
After buying a boatload of pizza and tokens, my sister and I noticed we could have used a coupon and DOUBLED the amount of tokens being devoured by all the games and rides our kids were drawn to.
Knowing if anyone could make it happen—David could. Would he be able to turn that coupon into coveted tokens?
After a little arm twisting, David approached the manager with, “I have been nominated to humiliate myself. Can we cash in this coupon we forgot to use earlier?”
The manager agreed it was worth the humiliation and doubled our kids’ fun. Gotta love a dad who is willing to negotiate!
So a few days ago when the kids were out of school for fall break and since David had the day off, we decided to take them to Chuck E. Cheese’s for lunch. My sister and her daughter met us there.
After buying a boatload of pizza and tokens, my sister and I noticed we could have used a coupon and DOUBLED the amount of tokens being devoured by all the games and rides our kids were drawn to.
Knowing if anyone could make it happen—David could. Would he be able to turn that coupon into coveted tokens?
After a little arm twisting, David approached the manager with, “I have been nominated to humiliate myself. Can we cash in this coupon we forgot to use earlier?”
The manager agreed it was worth the humiliation and doubled our kids’ fun. Gotta love a dad who is willing to negotiate!
Thursday, November 09, 2006
Politics Smolitics
Sheeeish . . . back to Mommy blogging for me. Didn’t mean to cause such a stir.
I had my days of controversy in college and before I was married. Between being a card carrying member of Green Peace, Amnesty International and the Democratic Party (and born-again), well I’ve had more than enough of my fair share of debates and being called names unmentionable here. I hung that hat up long ago.
I feel no need to convince others of my personal opinions—if you’re uninformed, let me direct you to the Fox News Channel, The Drudge Report
and Michelle Malkin. And if you really want to have a good time, tune into three hours of Rush each day. (If you download him onto your ipod, you can listen commercial free!)
For the record, there are several Democrats (okay maybe only a few) I greatly admire and would get my vote in a heartbeat were they in my district. But I also am so saddened by the way the Democratic Party has seemingly lost it’s way. Most people don’t even realize how many Democrats in office have switched over the years from being pro-life to pro-choice . . . following the party instead of their convictions.
I am saddened about the election results because I love President Bush—personally I feel deeply indebted to this man of morals, principles and courage. My children and their children are indebted too. I greatly admire him for the tenacious way he is holding the line in the war on terror. I think he could be far more effective in the next two years if he had the House and Senate voting with him.
I am so deeply thankful for our men and women in uniform and am saddened to see Rummy go. He is a hero to me as well.
So let the comments roll. This is your last chance as this is my LAST post dealing with anything remotely resembling politics . . . and you don’t even want to get me started on the media! That would be ugly.
I had my days of controversy in college and before I was married. Between being a card carrying member of Green Peace, Amnesty International and the Democratic Party (and born-again), well I’ve had more than enough of my fair share of debates and being called names unmentionable here. I hung that hat up long ago.
I feel no need to convince others of my personal opinions—if you’re uninformed, let me direct you to the Fox News Channel, The Drudge Report
and Michelle Malkin. And if you really want to have a good time, tune into three hours of Rush each day. (If you download him onto your ipod, you can listen commercial free!)
For the record, there are several Democrats (okay maybe only a few) I greatly admire and would get my vote in a heartbeat were they in my district. But I also am so saddened by the way the Democratic Party has seemingly lost it’s way. Most people don’t even realize how many Democrats in office have switched over the years from being pro-life to pro-choice . . . following the party instead of their convictions.
I am saddened about the election results because I love President Bush—personally I feel deeply indebted to this man of morals, principles and courage. My children and their children are indebted too. I greatly admire him for the tenacious way he is holding the line in the war on terror. I think he could be far more effective in the next two years if he had the House and Senate voting with him.
I am so deeply thankful for our men and women in uniform and am saddened to see Rummy go. He is a hero to me as well.
So let the comments roll. This is your last chance as this is my LAST post dealing with anything remotely resembling politics . . . and you don’t even want to get me started on the media! That would be ugly.
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
The Inevitable
Some things in life cannot be helped.
Like when Jonathan was in kindergarten. He wore his brand new winter coat to school and spilled orange juice on it. Someone tried to be helpful by putting it in a sealed plastic bag for the journey home. Unfortunately, Jonathan accidentally left it in the class coat closet over the weekend. By the time I even learned of the mishap, the coat was covered in mildew. If you’re a mom, you know—the once cute coat was ruined forever. Sigh.
And then we have sad days like today. I guess it was inevitable. Between the war in Iraq, countless scandal, fiscal irresponsibility and the fact we still don’t have tight reins on the border . . . we lost the House. And who knows, the Senate might go as well.
A sad day. A day deserved. We reap what we sow. Sigh.
Maybe two years of disaster will help us get a little smarter in 2008!
Like when Jonathan was in kindergarten. He wore his brand new winter coat to school and spilled orange juice on it. Someone tried to be helpful by putting it in a sealed plastic bag for the journey home. Unfortunately, Jonathan accidentally left it in the class coat closet over the weekend. By the time I even learned of the mishap, the coat was covered in mildew. If you’re a mom, you know—the once cute coat was ruined forever. Sigh.
And then we have sad days like today. I guess it was inevitable. Between the war in Iraq, countless scandal, fiscal irresponsibility and the fact we still don’t have tight reins on the border . . . we lost the House. And who knows, the Senate might go as well.
A sad day. A day deserved. We reap what we sow. Sigh.
Maybe two years of disaster will help us get a little smarter in 2008!
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Let The Games Begin
Last night was Ashley’s first basketball game—the first of the season; the first of her life.
By no small stretch she was the smallest one on the court. Though the contenders outsized the Warriors by about a foot per player, our girls brought down the house 42 to 2.
While David refereed the game, Cole cheered from the sidelines—pom poms and all. Ashley played her heart out proving she belongs among the small but mighty. And Cole . . .
Well lets just say he is presidential!
By no small stretch she was the smallest one on the court. Though the contenders outsized the Warriors by about a foot per player, our girls brought down the house 42 to 2.
While David refereed the game, Cole cheered from the sidelines—pom poms and all. Ashley played her heart out proving she belongs among the small but mighty. And Cole . . .
Well lets just say he is presidential!
Monday, November 06, 2006
Call Me . . .
Lately I’ve been thinking about Sarah. She had a son late in life.
Though I’m not yet 91, I have noticed many young friends of ours are pregnant . . . and I’m old enough to be their mother. I don’t dwell on this, but sometimes it smacks me in the face.
When the woman behind the pharmacy counter asked if Nicholas was my grandson, I was able to laugh it off. She was older—maybe her eyesight was failing . . . just a mistake.
But then, not 20 minutes later at the new Chinese restaurant, when our young waitress asked the same thing—well frankly it had all been building up and we had Niagara Falls.
So that brings me back to Sarah. Was it ever rough going? Did stupid questions ever reduce her to tears? My suspicion is no. Baby Isaac was such a joy and gift from God, everything else around her paled. She called herself richly blessed and said the Lord had given her laughter.
Such truth. Nicholas is a precious and unexpected gift. I am so overwhemingly thankful to have him. So call me grandma; call me old . . . and call me Michelle if anyone invites you to a botox party!
But most of all, call me overflowing, richly blessed and full of laughter—for that is what I am.
Though I’m not yet 91, I have noticed many young friends of ours are pregnant . . . and I’m old enough to be their mother. I don’t dwell on this, but sometimes it smacks me in the face.
When the woman behind the pharmacy counter asked if Nicholas was my grandson, I was able to laugh it off. She was older—maybe her eyesight was failing . . . just a mistake.
But then, not 20 minutes later at the new Chinese restaurant, when our young waitress asked the same thing—well frankly it had all been building up and we had Niagara Falls.
So that brings me back to Sarah. Was it ever rough going? Did stupid questions ever reduce her to tears? My suspicion is no. Baby Isaac was such a joy and gift from God, everything else around her paled. She called herself richly blessed and said the Lord had given her laughter.
Such truth. Nicholas is a precious and unexpected gift. I am so overwhemingly thankful to have him. So call me grandma; call me old . . . and call me Michelle if anyone invites you to a botox party!
But most of all, call me overflowing, richly blessed and full of laughter—for that is what I am.
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