Jennifer B's Blog

My Blog Is MOVING...

2011-04-16T20:02:00.000-07:00

I have used all the picture memory that this blog will allow so I have set up a new one so I can continue. Here's the address: jenniferbsblog2.blogspot.com It might take me awhile to get use to the updated blog area so hopefully it will look better and better. See you there!!

Kusadasi, Turkey

2011-04-08T11:20:00.000-07:00

Day 6 This morning we loaded the bus at 8:00 a.m. and headed south towards the Mediteranean Sea! We made our first stop at Ephesus. What a FANTASTIC stop this was!! Two hours was good but we could have been there a few more hours; well, us adults that is! The kids were in awe also don't get me wrong, but they aren't as in to the history as we are. That's ok. It was the most interesting thing to walk around an actual city that was thousands of years old. The remains are being excavated even today. I can't wait to be able to post pictures so you can all see what I mean. Lunch was next and then a trip up the mountain again, this time to the House of the Virgin Mary. It was cool also. Not everyone agrees that this house really belonged to Mary the Mother of Jesus, but it I'm not going to judge. It is good with me. The next stop was a leather factory. They escorted us into a dark room with movie theatre seats and a small marble run-way in front of us. Next was a leather coat fashion show. It was sweet. I have never seen an actual run-way production before. Complete with music and dry ice. There were about 5 models, 2 guys and 3 girls strutting their stuff, showing off their beautiful leather jackets. Madison and Mr. Daggett got to model a leather jacket also. That was fun. The end of the day came with a drive to Kadusia, where tomorrow we will load the crusie ship and head out for Greece. It was a warm day today so everyone is excited for the cruise and the thought of getting a suntan. Teenagers! My ankles are swollen...on them too much I guess! Oh the bad associated with traveling....

Hello From Pergamon, Turkey

2011-04-07T07:05:00.000-07:00

There was no internet in the last hotel so I couldn't post anything until now. We just got in for the day. It is 5:07 p.m. Thursday. It is 5:07 a.m. Thursday back home, and from my computer, it is 27 degrees! My lilacs will probably be frozen!! Ugh! The time has gone quickly here. Day 1 and Day 2: Sunday morning at 3:00 a.m. we got up from the hotel in Seattle and got ready and to the airport by 4:00 a.m. Plan B already got put into motion because very FEW of us had luggage that would fit in the container for an international flight carry on SO...most everyone had to check their luggage. It ended up ok, with no one's luggage getting lost along the way. The plane ride to New York was long and un-eventful. I stayed up so I could sleep on the next leg. And sleep I did! The trip from New York to Istanbul went quickly for me. We arrived in Istanbul at 10:00 a.m. Monday morning. We went to the hotel and then were on our own for a little bit. We all got on the tram and then had lunch, walking over to the Topkapi Sarayi Museum afterwards. We were without a tour guide for this museum but they did have some English printed on the signs. The museum held a lot of clothing and jewels and swords and such, that belonged to the 6th generation of the Ottoman Empire Sultan Mehmet. Shelley about got smashed by a police car as she tried to cross the street. They drive way too fast. She survived and was able to accompany us on the rest of the journey. It had been 32 hours since leaving Seattle and not much sleep to show for it, so she has a good excuse! We went back to the hotel after and ate dinner and went to bed to get much needed sleep. Day 3: The Blue Mosque and the Aya Sofia Museum were toured this morning. These are both muslim prayer mosques, with the Aya Sofia not being used as a mosque today, but a museum. Very interesting this muslim religion. The Hippodrome was next (a place where chariot races took place a LONG time ago) and then the Grand Bazaar, which had our kids fascinated....LOTS of things to spend their money on. The Spice Market was the next stop, which featured a pet market on the back side along with garden market, where you could buy any garden seed you wanted. The amount of people in this city is spectacular. The weather was on the chilly side and overcast so I imagine the amount of people out and about was not as many as if it were a nice day. The men were out at all times of the day while the women tended to be out only after the early afternoon hours. There was a Bosphorus Boat tour which went in the Darnel waterway. This is the waterway that links Istanbul, Turkey, Europe and Istanbul, Turkey, Asia. There were 2 big bridges that linked the continents with escavation going on now for an underwater tunnel for public transportation between Asia and Europe with another for private vehicles to be added soon after. The waterway was full of huge tanker ships, cargo ships, fishing boats, tour boats and little toy boats navigating amongst each other. It was cool seeing the city from the waters edge. Back to the hotel for dinner and then bed. Day 4 This day was devoted to a bus ride from Istanbul to Pergamon, with a couple of stops in between starting with Troy. This city really doesn't exist anymore except for left over bricks and walls that are left over from the abandoned city that was rebuilt 9 times before being abandoned. Fascinating. It also holds the trojan horse that was built to appease Poseiden to keep the city safe. The Greeks knew this and hid inside it and once it was delivered to Troy, came out and massacred the soldiers. The horse now has stairs built into the back legs and tourists can go up and poke their heads out of windows that are in the horses sides. After Troy the bus continued stopping in Pergamon at the hotel. We saw LOTS of olive trees along the way. Turkey is 3rd in the world for olive oil production. There were olive trees growing in every possible ground available, from backyards to clear up the mountaintops. We had dinner and then went to bed shortly after. Day 5 Can't believe how fast the time is going! This morning we got to sleep in until 7:30. We had breakfast and then headed to Acropolis (Greek for "Crown City") a town from a long time ago at the top of the mountain, where there was also Athena's Temple and Zeus's Temple, which has now been moved to Berlin, and an ampitheater (the steepest ampitheatre in the world). It was so incredible...beyond words!! Some of the walls are still there, lots of columns left over, a water reservoir and parts of Athena's Temple. Acropolis, being at the top of the mountain, had beautiful views of the valleys below so we got to see plenty of beautiful sights. A carpet factory was next on the tour. We got to see the actual ladies that make the rugs and all the work it takes to produce one. That was fun. Lunch next and then the tour guide, Mehmet, took us all on an extra excursion to a local public boarding high school. That was a fun time for the kids...to get to see other kids in a school setting. We got to go to a rehearsal for a Turkish Folkdance and the instructor let our kids participate and learn some of the dance also. I think they really enjoyed themselves. We then toured the Onyx Factory. We are now back at the hotel getting ready for dinner. We will leave at 7:30 tomorrow morning for Ephesas.

The Gum Wall....And Saturday Down......

2011-04-02T19:24:00.000-07:00

We are in Seattle right now, at the motel, getting ready to relax before getting up at 3:00 a.m. to get ready to be at the airport at 4:00. Wow! We drove through snow on the Pass....April 2nd and snow. The snow turned into rain when we got to Seattle. The girls wanted to go to Pike Street Market to get rings. We went. We even got to check out the gum wall. Each of us added to it. This was a great sign that was outside the market.

This is on the street...an umbrella. How appropriate!!

Who can just walk by the flowers at Pike Street? I'm going to live in Seattle for a month when I retire, right down off of Alaskan Way, in a condo that has a balconey so I can sit outside my place with coffee and flowers. Nice huh!

This was everyone at the gum wall when we first got there.

This heart is Paxton's.

Pic of Pax and Kate in their matching 'rain' coats.

These guys were singing outside of the original Starbucks.

Couldn't help but take a picture of this sign!

Will be on the airplane all day tomorrow......

Friday Down.....

2011-04-01T20:04:00.000-07:00

Here is the sunrise this morning. It was worth a picture! Also the field next to us just turned their water on. Nice to see all these signs of spring!!

No big April Fools jokes this year. Good thing.

Worked on schedules again at school. Kyle picked me up afterwards and we ran to Othello to give a potential customer a bid and then ran over to grandpa and grandma's house to visit. They were both looking super! Grandpa hasn't looked this good the last couple of times I have seen him so I was glad to see his old self. Went to my parents house and visited with them afterwards, before going home to get myself all ready for tomorrow! Enjoying the Mariner's Opening Baseball game tonight. They are down 1-2 against the Oakland A's. Hopefully that will change quickly!!

We are leaving tomorrow for Seattle.......can't believe the time is here!

Thursday Down.......

2011-03-31T20:54:00.000-07:00

Art is awesome! Got the ole schedules adjusted so everyone has a full one, and numbers got crunched and totaled so we can get an idea of the number of sections that need to be offered....that much closer to a master schedule! GOOD work Marcie! We worked on it pretty much all day long, it went faster than fast. We got to start going over the numbers with Tim. Will finish that tomorrow...what a week! Paxton and I ran into town for the last minute shopping item: a converter for the computer and camera plug-ins. It was the last thing that I am going to get...besides a book to read on the many hours of plane time that lie ahead! We also stopped and saw grandma and poppa before we came home. They were so cute. Grey's Anatomy is on right now. It's a new show about the car crash with Arizona and Callyopie. It is a little weird in that they (the actors) are SINGING songs during the episode. Weird. Kyle hates it. He is complaining and rolling his eyes big time!

Wednesday Down......

2011-03-30T21:08:00.000-07:00

Today was a pretty good day. Got the rest of World History added to next years' seniors schedules and got the math and english classes switched if need be, and Marcie got the deficient lists built into requests also. We got to run the first batch of numbers for classes...how many requests for which classes...now we get to tweak any suspicious things we find and also get to look at numbers for sections. The next step will be to finalize what classes will be offered, and how many will be needed. Then the admin gets to decide who teaches what and then we will get to start in on making a MASTER SCHEDULE for next year. This process will take a good couple of weeks. Especially since we don't know budget-wise what will be happening for next year. It might take longer.

Had our last Art Trip meeting tonight. We will meet at the airport at the Delta checkin area at 4:00 Sunday morning. Wow! That's early!! Gonna go and stay the night before, just to help with traveling time. We will be on a plane from 7:00 a.m. Sunday morning until 10:00 a.m. Monday morning, Istanbul time! Can't even fathom how many actual hours we will be on the plane. 5-6 hours to New York, depending on flight patterns, etc. and then don't have a clue how long the flight is from New York to Istanbul, but one of the father's that was there said it was around an 11 hour flight. OMG. Get ready for a sore butt!!! Cramped legs!!! Clausterphobia!!! Xanax and Tylenol PM!!! But, we are going to have SO MUCH FUN!!!

Tuesday Down.....

2011-03-29T20:35:00.000-07:00

Loved this so here you go!! Here's a conversation this morning: Whitney: Do you know what I realized today??? Jennifer: What Whit? Whitney: Alison and I were talking this morning and I said to her: The number of days away from going to Europe now fits on one hand!! I'm SO EXCITED!! Jennifer: Me too!!! The kids are really starting to see that Sunday is coming...a reality!! Here we come Greece (and Turkey) Here we come! Today I got all of the juniors, next years seniors, schedules put in and now I am having to go back and add World History to all of those that haven't already taken it. We changed our social studies class for next year from Government AND Economics (2 separate classes worth 1 1/2 years of social studies credits) to Civics (1 class worth 1 year). Now those that are going on to college, which we are saying is EVERYONE!! needs to have a 1/2 year of World History to make up for the lost Economics credit. They are going to be so HAPPY!!! Not!! Oh well. Prepared for college they will be when I get done with them. HaHaHa!!! Got my Blog Books in the mail today. Haven't gotten to open the box yet because I have been working on Steve's FAFSA with him and then working on the last of my bookwork so that is all caught up and ready for me to leave for a couple of weeks. Leslie asked me what a blog book was so here is the answer.... I went to the website Blurb and made a book by downloading my blog onto their website and making it published in a book form. I did this for the 2008 year, the 2009 year and the 2010 year. I made a book last year for Briar of pictures that I had taken of he and Brianna. It was just a paperback book, about 20 pages or so. It turned out pretty cool. These books are hardback and a bit bigger, depending on the amount of pictures I put on my blog....which in 2009 was huge! That particular book is around 425+ pages. OK, I was getting excited about seeing them so I just opened up the package and they are AWESOME...well, ok, awesome to only me because they are my life but still....generations to come will be pouring over them, I'm sure of it!! LOL. Leaving on Saturday for Seattle.....the airport early Sunday morning....I'm leaving on a jet plane...be back in 13 days.....oh yeah, I'm ready to go!!!

Monday Down.....

2011-03-28T20:20:00.000-07:00

Can't really believe that we only have 5 more days until we pack up for Seattle and then Istanbul. The time is coming quickly!! I have not been wanting to think about how soon it is coming just to keep focus on the week at hand and what needs to be done before leaving:

bulletins to church

941 paid for April 15

Dept of Revenue paid this month

pack

Direct TV paid

phone bill paid

camera stuff organized

necklace ordered

boat payment ready for Kyle

tabs put on boat trailer

schedules finished at work

deposits made at work

payroll done

water plants

There's probably more that I am missing but will find out about those things when I get in and get these things done.

Found this picture and think it's great. When I get home I am going to get a herb garden going. This should be fun. It will smell good at least (:

Happy 1st Birthday, Remington

2011-03-27T18:17:00.000-07:00

We went to West Richland to celebrate Remington's first birthday this afternoon. He was cute. Everything he opened he said "oh" and smiled. He is the happiest little guy ever. He liked these little cars. Kaylee had to get in on the action too. She was all about the presents, getting them opened that is!

Kyle got back from fishing but not with the big bucks this time. Oh well. Fun is the name of the game.

Home Runs At Softball!!!!!

2011-03-27T10:05:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the first league game for the Lady Eagles. They played in Ki-Be and won the doubleheader, easily. There were a total of 5 homeruns during both games; Ashley had 3 the first game, and probably could have had more if they would have pitched to her after the 3rd homerun, but they didn't; Kate had one during the second game and PAXTON had one during the second game!!! It was sweet.....right over the centerfield fence. She was so excited and so were we!! When I got to the game this little cherub was there....along with her dad, Shayla, Remington and Brad. It was nice to see them. I sat in my usual left field and they sat behind home plate so Kaylee spent a lot of time running back and forth. Here are some pictures from the game:

Love this shot of Grayson at bat

The first of Ashley's homeruns

Carissa for the tag

I sat so I could see both the varsity and the junior varsity games. Here is Marie.

The second homer for Ashley.

Kate warming up

Here's Eric, Remington and Kaylee

Noe and Marie

In between games

Kate's homerun

Paxton's at-bat

for a HOMERUN!!

AWESOME!!

New Shoes

2011-03-26T08:03:00.000-07:00

Our office aide ordered some new soccer shoes the other day and he just got them so he brought them in to share. I told him those shoes were going to earn him big bucks as a pro soccer player one day soon. So, here he is posing with them so that one day I can show everyone that I know him! Yeah, Ivan! He really is a good soccer player. He and another senior have been playing on the varsity team every year (and starting) since they were freshmen. They even went over to Seattle this spring to go to the Sounders Soccer Combine. This is the first year age-wise they were eligible to try out so they wanted the experience. Definitely an experience they are glad they took. Ivan is already told that he has a place on the CBC soccer team next fall. He is excited about that!

Today it looks a little overcast outside. We have a softball doubleheader at Ki-Be so of course it will rain. Rain is in the forecast for this afternoon. MAYBE it will hold off until after about 3:00 or so, when we should be done with the games. I had better put my umbrella out so I don't forget it.

Kyle turned on the water for the yard the other day and it went pretty good actually. We only have to replace 1 spray as of right now and had to replace 1 split pipe by the main area of the where the sprinklers get turned on. He was not upset by either little setback so when he's happy with the outcome, everyone else is happy with the outcome!

Tomorrow Is Friday!!

2011-03-24T20:43:00.000-07:00

Yesterday and today were conferences at school. Teachers met with students and their parents. It was a long couple of days. I was at the junior high for the afternoons answering questions from eighth grade students and parents about schedules for next year. Last week students picked electives for their next years' schedule. During conferences their parents got to look over their choices, discuss, keep, change, and sign the paper so we (the counselors and myself) can put their choices into the computer and then hit a button and get the first step to a master schedule for next year done....calculating the number of requests for classes. I got a few of the requests into the computer today in between answering questions. Not too many, but a few. The next couple of days at work will be spent entering the data. The days will go faster; thank goodness!

On the way home from work today the sky was absolutely breathtaking...

We watched the rain move in and an hour or so after I got home, the rain hit our house. It was brought in with wind (of course) and rained hard for a little bit, then just rained, and eventually it quit altogether and the wind blew the clouds out and it was calm and evening. Love springtime weather!

Wednesday And A MUST Read...

2011-03-23T20:06:00.000-07:00

I found this picture of Briar on my computer and so I thought I would post it. Such a handsome boy!
This is the old pickup parked at Greg's. He leaves the window open so his momma kitty can get inside to feed the babies she had inside of it! He is so thoughtful when it comes to his animals. GREAT pickup!!

OK, so here is my MUST read. Jan gave us a copy of this poem at her house tonight for our study group. Warning: IT IS AWESOME!!

Nada

by St. John of the Cross

So as to taste the best,

learn to taste of nothing.

So as to own all,

let go of everything.

So as to become who you are,

walk away from yourself.

So as to become wise,

forget all you ever knew.

So as to arrive at where you are not,

you must walk the path of a nobody.

Spring Pics From Around The House

2011-03-22T18:13:00.000-07:00

First of all, here's a picture of Kyle's fishing partner for this weekend with one of the catches of the day. He sent it to me on my phone so I thought I would share it. They are in Umatilla pre-fishing right now. I hope they put this one back into the water with the notion that they can go back when it counts and catch it again! That would be good!! It looks QUITE big.
I found this picture on my phone also. I forgot that I took it this last weekend. It isn't the greatest quality of picture of the girls but it will do. It was fun playing with Grayson during club. I don't think the girls got used to wearing "red and black" Othello colors. They do look good in them though don't you think?? LOL

I got to talk to Briar on the phone this afternoon and told him I would put a few pictures of what it looks like around here....spring should be on its way in!

Momma kitty is ready to pop any day now. I had to throw a picture of one-eye kitty in there also. He is really a good cat. He runs out in front of you when you are walking to the house and then lies down in front of you. Nice and annoying!

Maira came by the office today. It's spring break for the U of W so she came to visit. She looks so great! She gets to take a photography class next quarter. I am so TOTALLY JEALOUS!!

The Best Food Ever

2011-03-21T21:54:00.000-07:00

I think I could eat spaghetti every day of the year! Love it! I ran outside to take a picture of the sky this evening. There was a weird "u" shape just right outside my front door. You can see it kindof in this picture.

Just next to it was a big ole dark cloud full of rain. You can tell that Rattlesnake is getting a shower in this picture.

It was about an hour after I took the pictures that the rain made it here. It rained hard but not for long. Sure smells good outside after a rain.

Spring is here I think. A few signs:

wind
wind
rain
tulips and daffodils coming up
wind
baseball games
softball games
kitties ready to have babies
baby calves running around, cute!!
lambs being born....even triplets!
wind
sun poking through clouds

Volleyball In Moscow, Idaho

2011-03-20T19:39:00.000-07:00

AFTER Connell's Jr Miss Pageant (that's really NOT the name anymore, but I can't recall what the correct one is...so, this will have to do for now) Paxton and I loaded into Erica's suburban with 5 other Othello kids, and headed to Moscow, Idaho for a volleyball tournament. Before I get there, I will tell you what I learned about the Pageant:

Megan Booker was crowned the Jr Miss
Kathryn Stredwick was chosen for the court
Elaine Pierson was chosen for the court
Allyson Reimers was chosen for the court
Shaniel McCary was chosen for the court

THAT'S all folks! Oh, and one more thing: Glad Paxton didn't do it because if you can't tell....it's NOT my thing. But that's just me. I am happy for all the participants and I would have been proud of Paxton had she done it also. But, I'm glad she didn't!

I took a few pictures of the volleyball tournament but they were BAD so I am not posting any but these 2. The girls were goofing off during a break so Erica and I snapped some shots. I took a picture of her, taking a picture of me.

The girls did great in the morning and then things peetered off in the afternoon. Oh well, that's how the ball bounces. Got home earlier than last week! That's a bonus.

This week is conference week so the kids only go to school Monday, Tuesday, and half a day Friday. I go to work all week. For all regular hours. Yeah!

Kyle is gone to Umatilla all week. He is doing a tournament this weekend so he is going to do some pre-fishing. He will use any excuse to fish (:

Truth

2011-03-18T22:48:00.000-07:00

You can't change circumstances and

you can't change other people,

but God can change you.

Evelyn A. Theissen

I hope this helps.

Connell 9 Riverside 1..

2011-03-17T20:00:00.000-07:00

Cold and a little breeze coming through...the weather for the softball game tonight. Connell didn't have a problem with the girls from Riverside, somewhere near Spokane.

Paxton went 3-4 tonight with a triple her first time up and 2 solid singles after that. She got caught looking her 4th time up. Can't be perfect all the time.
THIS is a nice look!

Pictures Of Softball

2011-03-16T19:14:00.000-07:00

Here's some pictures from yesterday at the Jamboree. The green team is Quincy and the red is Othello. Check out the sky in some of the pictures....we didn't get much rain but it sure looked like we could have!

HSPE Week and Softball...

2011-03-15T21:22:00.001-07:00

This week is the state mandated HSPE test (High School Proficiency Exam) for sophomores, and any juniors and/or seniors that haven't already passed the 3 sections: reading, writing and math. Today was part of the writing exam. It went well, except the day seemed to DRAG on for those of us not taking the test anyway! The test calls for a 4 hour block in the morning, so that's what we gave it. Tomorrow is the second part of the writing....kids--get lots of sleep tonight and eat a good breakfast in the morning!!

The girls softball team played in a jamboree in Othello this afternoon. We snuck in between a couple of rain clouds and didn't get wet. THAT was nice. It was cool enough without being wet and cold. Quincy was the first game and we beat them 13-0 in 2 innings. Jamboree's usually have 3 innings but we didn't have to bat the 3rd inning because of the score. Othello was the next victim, we beat them 8-1. Paxton got walked 2 times, hit once, and flew out to left field. I will post some pictures maybe tomorrow. I'm too tired tonight! Ugh!!

Found this picture a while ago.....LOVE the poppies between the grape rows. LOVE the picture!!

Busy Weekend

2011-03-14T20:55:00.000-07:00

Friday night Kyle and I chaperoned the "Glow With The Flow" dance. It was interesting to say the least. They all wore white t-shirts that they were able to decorate with fabric paint and spray paint. Then several kids brought black lights and everyone glowed all night. We had to do some breaking up of too close dancing. Ugh! I don't want to see that at a high school dance...or anywhere for that matter!

Saturday it was a trip to La Salle High School in Union Gap for softball. The girls played a double header beating La Salle both games, 12-0 and 19-1. Pax had a good day with a triple, double and single. She played good defense getting 2 balls hit to her. Their next game is Tuesday. A jamboree in Othello.

Getting ready to enter the field.

Grayson

Kate

This centerfielder caught one of Paxton's deep flies.

Coach.

Kate in her windup.

The slide at home.

Safe!

A slide at 3rd. Out!

After the game Pax and I rode to Clarkston with Grayson and Erica. We drove the 3 1/2 hours, got a hotel room and crashed for the night! The time changed so we lost an hour on top of it!! Morning came early. Once it did it was off to Clarkston High School and a DAY of volleyball. They played a 7 team pool and then a tournament bracket. The last game in the regular pool play was cancelled due to time....the team we would have played was the College Place team we played last weekend and crushed. They didn't have a problem not playing us. We went into the tournament bracket in 2nd place. We finished 2nd place for the tournament, loosing to the other College Place team. They played 7 matches, 21 games. They were exhausted at the end of the day. So was my rear! Came home and went straight to bed!

Good job O-Town!!!

Thursday....Again and Again

2011-03-10T21:05:00.000-08:00

There were several of us at work today, that could have sworn it was Thursday for the 2nd time this week! Wednesday was Thursday...and then we got to have it again. Today.

Got my 2009 Blog Book ready to go today. Will try to get the 2010 one ready so I can get it ordered. They have "ship 3 for the price of 1" so I want to take advantage of that!

The wind is howling tonight. It can stop. The sooner the better.

I took a picture of my sidewalk the other day where my kids put their hands. They are growing up so quickly. In just a couple of weeks they are going to be 19 and 17 years old. I'm getting old.

Grey's is NOT ON AGAIN THIS WEEK!! This is making me mad.

Ash Wednesday

2011-03-09T19:46:00.001-08:00

Start of Lent.....Ash Wednesday. Did you give up anything?

These images are so powerful. So beautiful. So humbling.

Paxton made the Varsity softball team again this year. She hurt her knee on Sunday, hit it with another girls, and it bruised up pretty good. She was worried because Monday they had tryouts at softball practice. That night she got a text from the coach saying that she had made the varsity team. She was relieved and excited. First game this coming Saturday against La Salle in the Yakima area. From there we will be traveling to Lewiston...approximately 210 miles, or around 4 hours, to the volleyball tournament, taking place on Sunday. It's going to be a busy weekend. ADD daylight savings time to all of this and can you say "short weekend"? It will be a good one though.

Tuesday

2011-03-08T21:32:00.000-08:00

Jessica was gone today so work was rather busy. Good. It makes the day go faster. It is a full-time job doing attendance. Especially when the automatic phone calls go out at 10:00 letting parents know that their kids aren't in school. They either call with an apology for not calling sooner or a "what the heck, my kid got on the bus; where is he/she??" Some days are just plain cool because we get to go into "detective" mode and get to finding out where kids are. Those are the fun days....not for all involved however!

I have this new ap on my phone (thank you, Erica) and it has been consuming my almost every spare moment at home. It's Bejeweled and it rocks!!

Young Life

2011-03-07T21:08:00.000-08:00

Just got home from the Young Life Banquet tonight. It was really good and the food was really great! Corrales: if you can boil water like you can cook a prime rib, YOU are the man!! I was part of Young Life Campaigners a few years ago...well, like about 10...ikes! That was a LONG time ago! What a fantastic time that was. The kids were just the bomb. I ended up by going to Malibu with them....something I will never forget. Maybe there will be another time for me in the organization. It is trying to make a comeback in Connell. My fingers are crossed.

Softball and Baseball.....It's Starting!!

2011-03-05T20:42:00.000-08:00

Well, I have been up since 5:30 this morning. "Why?" would you ask....well, because I had to be in Othello by 7:00 this morning! Paxton's Othello Club Volleyball players and parents had to work at the concessions today for the Othello Tournament for 12 and 14 year olds. We had the 7:00 - 9:00 AM shift. Paxton said she wanted to just get it over with, but forgot that we had to travel 40 minutes in order to arrive on time. Oh well, it's all good. Tomorrow we get to get up a little earlier than today to go to Walla Walla for Paxton's volleyball tournament. We don't have to work, just watch. All day. Like I said before, it's all good.

After volleyball Paxton and I went to visit Grandma and Pop. I haven't seen them in forever it seems like. They both look well. Grandpa's knee is giving him fits today and Grandma's arthritis leg was bothering her. Other than that, things are good for them. They crack me up. We had a great visit and were sorry to see it end...because Paxton had to be in Connell by 11:00 for softball practice. She asked me what I was doing the rest of the day and then she told me that CBC's softball and baseball teams have their opening day today, at CBC. Well, that sounds good to me.

And the weather was decent for the most parts. It really felt good when the sun wasn't behind a cloud. It felt warm. I took my camera so I can start getting in the swing of outside pictures again. I didn't take many at all, but I did get a couple of the kids that were playing that I knew: Debbie, Kieosha and Seth.

Both had some rusty plays but for the most part, they were fun to watch. Welcome back baseball and softball!! I've missed you!! Connell's first games are next Saturday, in La Salle.

Kyle is in Portland at a Coach's Seminar thingy. He will be back tomorrow. He left yesterday. His birthday is tomorrow....

Mom and dad are in Arizona for Mariner spring training. I spoke with mom on the phone today and it was 80 degrees there and sunny. Can't feel bad about that. She left with a cold but is feeling much better. They will be home in a few weeks.

The Lady Eagle Girls Basketball team finished 6th in the State Tournament today, falling to Granger. This is the 4th year in a row that Connell has finished 6th. Pattern?? Congratulations, Lady Eagles!!! Fantastic season!!

Part of Paxton and my conversations today was about material things. It is amazing but this afternoon this is something I read, it works well with what we were talking about so I think I will share it upon leaving for the day. Good luck tomorrow at volleyball!!!

May you not become too concerned with material matters,

but instead place immeasurable value on the

goodness in your heart.

Find time in each day to see beauty and love

in the world around you.

Grey's Is A Rerun!

2011-03-03T21:18:00.000-08:00

How can that be? Another rerun for Grey's Anatomy tonight. UGH! Don't know why but guess I can do some Suduko puzzles after I get done here.

Found this picture awhile ago and thought I would share it. It's gorgeous!

Today at school we had a training from the ESD. It was on next year's scheduling in our database. We were trained in the Web and not Citrix so it was like brand new during some sections. My head was hurting afterwards. Lots of information for one day. It is the time of year for working on schedules for next year. We were able to give students their required core classes and will work on providing information to the students so they can pick electives that they want in their schedule. That will all take place within the next three weeks or so. Once we have conferences with parents at the end of the month we will be able to compile all of the student requests and make a schedule for next year based on the information gathered.

Our basketball girls played in the State Tournament this morning against Lynden Christian. They lost by quite a few. Tomorrow morning they will play again in a must-win situation. I think I heard that they are going to play Seattle Christian. Crossing our fingers and hoping for the best. Go Eagles!!

P.U.S.H.

2011-03-02T22:17:00.000-08:00

When all else fails (and even before that) just P.U.S.H.

Pray

Until

Something

Happens

My BFF Is Back To Blogging!!

2011-03-01T22:53:00.000-08:00

Can I say that or will I jinx it?? PLEASE keep going Lee Lee. I miss you guys and love that I have been able to catch up on a pretty daily basis....for the last week or so anyways! I love it that you have already posted WAY more than you did for ALL of 2010!

OK, so I like this picture you took of Briar and me so I am stealing it and putting it on my blog. When he left for college he took a picture of his sister with him (and believe it or else, he has it sitting on his desk right by his computer screen so I bet he sees it everyday!!) and wanted one of me to take with him also. Didn't work out like he wanted. I am always the one who takes the pictures, not pose for them. The ones I had taken at the time he was leaving were all red-eyed and puffy-eyed from crying so those were definitely NOT going with him. So, I know you check my blog every once in awhile Briar, so here you go. This one is for you....courtesy of Leslie!

And here is the Funkhouse Christmas card for 2010....I am so glad to get it. (Again, I stole it off of her blog!) She didn't get it mailed but no worries...I like this way better. I'm still a little miffed at the post office for the whole 20 cent increase in sending my 4x4 card to Briar. Rediculous!! Back to the card (picture)...aren't they the best looking family ever!! LOVE YOU GUYS!!!

Great Song

2011-03-01T22:19:00.000-08:00

Here's what I have been listening to lately, with ears wide open.

Hello World

Traffic crawls, cell phone calls

Talk radio screams at me

Through my tinted window I see

A little girl, rust red minivan

She's got chocolate on her face

Got little hands, and she waves at me

Ya, she smiles at me

Well hello world

How you been

Good to see you, my old friend

Sometimes I feel, cold as steel

Broken like I'm never gonna heal

I see light, little hope

In a little girl

Well hello world

Everyday I drive by

A little white church

It's got these little white crosses

Like angels in the yard

Maybe I should stop on in

Say a prayer

Maybe talk to God

Like he is there

Oh I know he is there

Ya, I know he's there

Well hello world

How you been

Good to see you, my old friend

Sometimes I feel, cold as steel

And broken like I'm never gonna heal

I see light

Little grace, little faith for the world

Hello world

Sometimes I forget what living's for

And I hear my life through my front door

And I'll breathe it in

Oh I'm home again

I see my wife, little boy, little girl

Hello world

All the empty disappears

I remember why I'm here

Just surrender and believe

I fall down on my knees

O hello world

Hello world

Happy Birthday Auntie!!

2011-02-28T18:02:00.000-08:00

Today is Auntie's Birthday!! Happy Birthday to YOU!! I hope you have had a good day.

These wonderful pussywillows are from Auntie's yard.....yes, THIS YEAR!! Arent' they the greatest!!

I planted a branch of them last year but haven't looked to see how it is doing in my yard yet this year. Obviously not even CLOSE to being this good yet. Maybe in a few years. Down the road. The wind continues to blow and today we had some rain. All signs of spring. Or maybe just spring sports. Colder than heck outside for practices.

I made it to the 2nd chair in the jury box before I was booted off as a potential juror. Maybe it was because I know Rick Kent. Maybe it is because I believe that eratic driving can be a sign of being under the influence. Maybe it is because I know that glassy eyes are a sign of being under the influence of marijuana, and not just an allergy. Go figure. Last time to call in for me this time is tomorrow night. Not thinking it is a huge possibility that I will have to report Wednesday. I could be wrong.

Paxton made it to the doctor's office today to get her earache checked out. Instead of having an infection, she had a balls of wax stuck in both of her ears. After the doctor took them out her reaction: I can hear now. Nice. They are sore and irritated and $125 later, she gets some drops to put in and cure the ache. Nice. Did I already say that?

I bought some shrink bags to use on the trip today and also money/passport pouches to be worn around the waste for both Pax and I, and an electric voltage converter for 220 to 110. My tip money is ready for Mr. Daggett and tomorrow I will go to the bank and order international money. The trip is becoming more and more expensive--and we haven't even left yet!

Sunset, Fishing And A New Trailer

2011-02-27T21:02:00.000-08:00

Ran for my camera last night when I walked by the window and saw this outside:

I hope I did it justice!!

Kyle and his partner, Will, were in 2nd place after the first day of the fishing tournament Yesterday. The wind was CRAZY and it was COLD but the tournament went on! After today, Kyle and Will finished the tournament in 4th Place and also won Big Fish of the Day (for yesterday). All translates into fun times, cold times, $25 gift certificates for both, and $150 each for prize money. (That translates into $75 for Kyle and $75 for Jennifer!)

A couple of days ago I got a call at school: "There's a really good deal on a cargo trailer and I'm going to buy it." Right on. We are now the proud owners of this:

Plenty of room in the back to put some shelves on the walls and it can store all kinds of other tools and fun stuff. He's so excited!!

I worked on my Blog Book all day today, except when I was getting lunch, dinner, and cutting Nick's hair. I also did a load of laundry when Kyle got home. Tomorrow I get to go into the Court House and do my civic duty of Jury Duty. There is a nasty accident on Sagemoor Road tonight. It has involved a 15 year old and a 16 year old. Two ambulances have been called out and also two ALS ambulances. Not something you want to have happen.

Tomorrow is the start of Spring Sports at school. It is going to be a wild day...and I won't be there! Hopefully the wind will go away by tomorrow so the kids don't have such a cold afternoon of practice. We have track, softball, baseball and boys soccer all ready to go.

Lazy Saturday

2011-02-26T15:43:00.001-08:00

Finally didn't have to wake up to an alarm today. Guess it hasn't been THAT long since I haven't had to but it sure feels like it. Did get up earlier than what I thought though....7:15. I was thinking more along the lines of 9:00 or 9:30 but hey, I got what I got. Went to bed early last night so maybe that had something to do with it!

Kyle was up and out EARLY this morning. He is fishing a tournament in Richland this weekend. He texted earlier and said he had 2 fish for more than 20 lbs. Let's hope he can add to that total and come away with some c*a*s*h!! I hope he gets something for being out in the freezing weather.....but I guess that's what he likes so he's all good with it.

I, on the other hand, have been doing a bunch of not-a-lot. I did get the bills paid this morning and the checkbooks updated. Also got a load of dishes done and the kitchen floor swept. I have been looking around on my computer, watching Sarah Richardson this afternoon, got a letter to Briar ready to be mailed, and I have dinner in the oven. Can you say LAZY?

I found this picture on a blog this morning and find it so darn cool, so I am posting it. Thanks Ali and Kelly!

What A Friday!

2011-02-25T18:11:00.000-08:00

I want to give an overview of our day at work. I am NOT using any names because I don't want to give out any identities; just want to describe the day.

Before 8:10 am:
Call comes in excusing Student A from school today. Student A is home sick.
Call comes in excusing Student B from school today. Student B is going to the doctor.

Around 10:00 am:
Call comes in from mom of Student A wanting to speak with student.
Student A NOT at school.
Look at attendance sheet with another employee and find out that Student B did get dropped off at school with father; employee SAW this take place.
Call home of Student B.
Mom thinks Student B is at school.
Inform mom that Student B is not.
Find out from brother of Student B that Student B is in Tri-Cities with friends.
Call homes of friends.
All parents believe that Students are at school.

This scenario played out not one, but TWO different, separate times within the school day. By this I mean, 2 other groups of kids, unrelated to the above scenario, with the same "not at school today" problem. CRAZY Friday! We felt like detectives instead of secretaries. It's pretty comical now, but it was not at all, going through it.

Ready for the weekend ahead. Yeah!!

EF Backpacks

2011-02-24T21:22:00.000-08:00

Here's the first look at the "EF Tour" official backpack! Who gets one you ask? Why those of us COOL people going on the Greece/Turkey Art Trip in April of course! How special are we? Yes, even me, a chaperone, got one! I however, did not feel the need to wear it to school.....Kate and Ali did though!

And so did Kellie and Evelyn!

Can't believe how quickly this trip is coming up now. Before (like last spring) it was a LONG time to have to wait so it was easy not to really think about it. Well, that is no longer the case and it is just a few weeks off! It's crazy how fast it is sneaking up....lots of things to pick up and think about. Order money, get clothes bags, electric converter, money bag, a good pair of shoes. better get busy.

I went to a parent meeting about softball tonight. Andy asked me last Tuesday, "we are planning to have a parent meeting this Thursday for softball".....OF COURSE you are! It's the only night this week that I don't have something going on!!! So, I went. And it was good. Excited for this year.

Watching Grey's Anatomy right now. Great show! Kyle is working late at Boise Cascade tonight. Big things going on!!!!

Marvelous Darling

2011-02-23T21:17:00.000-08:00

Paxton FINALLY got her glasses today!! Isn't she cute! I think secretly she was excited to get them. I haven't seen her in person with them yet but if this picture is any indication then she looks marvelous darling. The kid can wear anything and look super.

The weather did everything today.....rain, hail, snow, wind, sun, clouds, clear; you name it, it happened [well except for 60+ degrees].

School was pretty fast today. I worked on a couple of days' worth of deposits and also worked on trying to get some earned credits to show on some transcripts. You wouldn't think that was a hard thing....lordy be, it's killing us!! Still haven't figured out how to accomplish the goal but with some help from the ESD it will all come together I'm sure. Either that or we will have to do something out of the ordinary and figure out a way to 'make' it happen.

Eric, Shayla, Kaylee and Remington were here tonight when I got home from my Wednesday group. Kyle fixed dinner for them. Kaylee was standing at the door waiting for me when I drove up. She smiled at me when I got to the door but wouldn't have too much to do with me for the first few minutes. We spent a good amount of time drawing her hand on a piece of paper. She loves the way it feels when the pen traces around each of her fingers. I will have to put her hands in a frame. She will get a kick out of that. She loved her pink polka-dot boots that we got her. She wore them around and then out the door when it was time to go home.

I got a few loose ends picked up tonight after being gone this weekend and not doing some bookwork prior to going away for the weekend. There were a couple of due dates coming up quickly so I was glad that I got them done before time ran out.

Congratulations And The Weekend

2011-02-22T21:21:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to the Connell wrestlers! The Eagles were represented by 9 boys and 1 girl at the State Tournament this last weekend in Tacoma. There were 3 alternates (unfortunately none of them got to participate but they were there to help cheer on their teammates!) and 7 that got to wrestle for state placement......they came home with 4 wrestlers earning titles!! Congratulations to ALL of them, especially the placers:

Jacob - 2nd place

Misael - 3rd place

Tyson - 5th place

Ryan - 8th place

It was a long weekend I'm sure. There is a lot of "hurry up and wait" time but it is also a great opportunity to see a lot of good wrestling. We are proud of all of the wrestlers.

My 3 day weekend involved driving to see Briar. It was a LONG trip over because I left after school. It is a 8 1/2 hour drive and doing it after putting in an 8 hour workday takes a toll on a person. Needless to say I was glad to sink into the motel bed Friday night (actually it was Saturday morning!). Saturday morning I made it to Briar's apartment and got to see where he is living. He shares with 5 other guys and between the 6 of them, 1 is a little on the "slobby" side, more than a little acutally. Guess who shares a room with him?? You guessed it! Briar. For anyone who knows Briar, he feels there is a place for everything and puts his things in that spot. I am sure he has held his breath more than a couple of times when he walks into his room. He showed me the desk of one of the other guys who is a little more compatible with the 'organization' that Briar is more use to: "look at the drawers, mom, even in here, everything is in its place." Cracked me up. [Briar's drawers look the same way!] Anyways, the first thing I saw when I looked at Briar's side of the room was a picture of his sister on his desk...the desk he uses every day. So hang in there parents! Your children really will turn out to love each other, just takes a little longer than we would like!

I did do the mother thing and cleaned the kitchen. The counters were a little on the grose side, dried food on them. Nasty! Anyways, I did the dishes and washed down the countertops. I can't help myself. Like I said: it's a mother thing.

Saturday afternoon I did another mom thing and took him grocery shopping. It was a new experience going grocery shopping with him this time: he actually picked things out because of their lower price or because the things would actually get used! "Don't spend your money on that, mom. I probably won't use it" or "this one is cheaper!" OK, who are YOU and where is MY son?? It was more proof that he really has grown. It's one of the reasons for the trail of tears that cascaded down my cheeks when it was time to leave. This is what we raised them to be isn't it?? After grocery shopping we went to see "Unknown" at the movie theatre. It was awesome! I recommend it if you like suspense/drama/twists. I don't go to movies much at all, but this was a good one.

Sunday we didn't do anything but eat dinner and hang out. We watched tv and just spent time together. It was nice and relaxing. Monday morning it was up and on the road early. I had to spend a good half-hour or so getting all the snow off of my car before I could get going. There was a good 5 inches or so, and some nice ice under all of the snow. I lost the last bit of snow off of the car just before I got to Baker City, Oregon! It is only February so I shouldn't have been so surprised. I do love the snow but didn't want to have to battle it on the roads coming home. The drive home seemed a lot easier/shorter than the drive down. I got home about 7:30. Boy was my butt ready to not have to be sitting in a car's seat!

It was hard to leave....I am not use to not seeing him every week. He gets done with school on April 9th. That doesn't seem like that long of a time so that's good. He is working hard. He showed me all his class books and notes that he takes and complained about all the studying that he has to do. I think he doesn't mind it all, makes it seem like he is getting something for his money. Welcome to the real world my son! I love you!!

Tonight was our Europe meeting, the next-to-the-last one before we get international! We leave on April 3rd and get back on April 13th. We are going to Turkey and Greece. Tonight we talked about getting Euros and Turkish Lira, packing, hotel assignments, chaperone assignments, tips for not getting pick-pocketed, and plane departures/returns. We have known about this trip for over a year now....finally it is starting to feel like it is coming and quickly! We now have just a few weeks left. And lots of details to get tied up! Starting to get a tad-bit excited!!

I am going to end this post with a super fantastic picture of my very best friend in the whole wide world and two of her favorite boys.....pretty high up on my list of favorites too! I stole it off of her blog because I think it is great! I love you LeeLee!!

Hi Matt and Lucas!! Say hi to your dad too!

Almost Friday....

2011-02-17T20:00:00.000-08:00

The wrestlers that go to state left this morning around 10:30 after a send-off assembly. This is what Ryan's locker looked like....

I hope he wins, oh yeah, and has fun! Paxton is going over with Sheryl and Brent. I'm afraid it is going to be a LONG couple of days!!!

I went with Paxton to see my grandparents a few weeks ago, actually right after they moved. I took these pictures of them that day. They were both so fascinated with the fact that you could see the picture right after it was taken [on the digital camera]. They are so darn cute!! I love them. What an important part of my life they have been.

This is what the sky looked like at 7:00 this morning:

This is what it looked like at 7:00 this evening:

The days are staying lighter a little longer, and getting lighter a little earlier! Spring is on the way.

This week has been LONG at school! There isn't a bunch going on right now for me, so therefore, the day drags on. Maybe it is feeling like that because of the anticipatio of a 3 day weekend?? I am going to go see Briar. Don't know what the plan is once I get there, but just being able to see him will be worth it!!

Meet Bear (The 3rd?)

2011-02-16T20:09:00.000-08:00

The boys got Auntie and Uncle Greg Bear for Christmas. They have been wanting to get a new dog for some time now and I guess their boys figured this was the time. He is so cute....and quickly getting out of the "puppy" stage and into the "toddler puppy" stage! He is too big to be a puppy, but cute enough to be one! I was out there last Wednesday and took him outside to take a couple of pictures of him. It wasn't the best lighting ever...not even CLOSE actually, but I did take a few anyway. How cute is he!!

Those paws are big!

I had to put him in the kennel after awhile because the ladies were starting to come and he is a big friendly. He is asking me what I think I am doing here.

Load Off My Mind

2011-02-15T20:49:00.001-08:00

I finished my taxes tonight....both business and personal. It feels good! I can relax and not have that hanging over my head; for another year anyway. Now it is a matter of getting the information transferred to the kids' FAFSA accounts and hopefully they will be able to get help for school next year. That would definitely be a bonus!

Work has been on the slow side this week. I don't like that. I would much rather be too busy than not busy enough. We are starting to gather the information needed to get working on student schedules for next year. People may think it shouldn't be that hard, just give kids classes, pick class times, pick teachers; easy, no? NOT! If it were that easy anyone could do it. There is a lot of time that goes into making a schedule, and a lot of trial and errors. We will open next years calendar the beginning of March and off we'll go!

Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T21:44:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day!!

Today

Give Thanks

Speak carefully

Look at your potential

Forgive soeone

Live in the moment

Give your best

Laugh

Don't judge

Be strong

Be a good friend

Give you little ones an extra hug

Put the phone down

Tell someone you love them

Get rid of bitterness

Show compassion

Be humble - not arrogant

Don't take each other for granted

Appreciate the little things

Turn the TV off

Don't hate

Don't let words knock you down

Say your sorry

Celebrate

Smile

Talk to God

This is a GREAT list for EVERY DAY, not just a single one. Go ahead....do it!

Regional Wrestling Tournament

2011-02-13T13:46:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I spent the whole day at the school helping with the Regional Wrestling Tournament. Who knows how many thousands (not really thousands) of kids were there! It started with weigh in at 8 and finally got home around 9:45 last night. I am glad that it is over. We have a few going to the tournament next weekend in Tacoma. That's exciting.
Here's warmups. I just noticed: this was the least amount of people in the stands all day.

We had to run the computers to get the bout sheets, keep track of the bout sheets and scores, place kids on mats, and call kids for their matches.

Here's Ryan.

Here's Tyson.

When the consilation matches were completed one of the mats was rolled up and moved out of the way for the winners podium to be moved in. The Ki-Be kids took over the rolling of the mat. Here's Ryan winning for 3rd Place.

The 171 pound placers. Yeah Ryan!!

Got to take a nape after breakfast this morning. Oh did it ever feel good! Made Kyle eggs, bacon and a heart shaped scone this morning as an early Valentine. Won't be getting up early enough tomorrow before work so today had to do.

Detour Home

2011-02-11T20:16:00.000-08:00

The other day on the way home from school we took a "detour". We stopped at this little bunk house that use to sit on the Pepiot Ranch (where my mother and aunt and uncles grew up) and now is going to be put somewhere in town to be restored. Well, right now sadly, the locals are taking beating it up. Why people do this is just BEYOND me....where is their respect for property? Especially that property that doesn't belong to them??? Unbelievable to me. It brings back a lot of childhood memories, they "played their hearts out" in this building. It was even used as the residence for the local school teacher. Anyways, Auntie wanted to get a picture of it. So, we did. Here she is:

And here is Whitney.....with her 'fabulous hair day'. I think she looks adorable!

Tonight Kyle is getting ready for his fishing day tomorrow, making things to use to hopefully catch fish. I get to go to school and work the day at the the Regional Wrestling Tournament. He gets to go fishing.

He wears these safety glasses because they are bi-focal...and Kyle can't see. Or so he says. I think he thinks he looks sexy in them. Oh yeah!

Got a letter from Briar in the mail today. It might just be the first letter he has ever written and had to mail. Maybe not, but just maybe! It was awesome. I miss him so much!

Tax Time

2011-02-10T22:39:00.000-08:00

I have been working on our taxes since after school today. It has been a LONG night. The IRS hasn't released their last update for business taxes yet....not until February 12th. Great. Everything else gets put on hold until then. Guess I won't have to pay any money until then. Or maybe I will wait until April 18th. Yes, I will be waiting.

It's GLASSES Time!

2011-02-08T18:23:00.000-08:00

When she was in the 1st grade she had to wear glasses all the time to correct a lazy eye. After a year the eye corrected itself and she no longer needed them. Now she is going to back to wearing them....but only for reading and computer work. She is SO excited....not! She picked out a bunch and then narrowed them down to a few:

And finally, down to two:

She ended up with the first ones!

Awesome!

2011-02-07T18:13:00.000-08:00

Reception and The Bridge

2011-02-06T16:24:00.000-08:00

The reception for Erika and Cory was really nice. They had good food and everyone had fun.

Erika and Kathy

The cutting of the cake

Sydney did not want to let her momma too far out of her sight. She was a little confused about all the attention being on her mom instead of on her. A little confused and a little put-out! But adorable all the same!

Here's what I saw when I got into my car to come home. You can really appreciate the beauty in the Cable Bridge at night, when it's all lit up!

Not quite ready for work tomorrow but it's coming anyway. Going to spend the rest of the evening just relaxing. Haven't even turned on the SuperBowl.....not too interested in having a winner out of the 2 choices; however, the Packers get my vote.

Residing the Pump House

2011-02-05T16:02:00.000-08:00

Here's the project that was going after I got home from helping decorate for Erika's reception tonight:
YEAH!!! I looked over at it just THIS morning on my way out to the shop to get the car and thought to myself it was in bad shape and needed to be re-sided this year. I get home and presto! Looking good!

Here's the finished front and side:

What a beautiful day to be working on it. Just enough coolness that it was good to be out working in a jacket. I also burned the Christmas tree and got it off the porch. Nick picked up the leaves that I raked into piles, Brad worked on a saw that was needing some adjustment, Kyle sided and I helped when he got to the parts that he needed help with. Brad came over and helped cut pieces as it got later in the afternoon so that we would be sure to get it done. Here's the back:

I am so glad it got done!! Now all it needs is some paint. Hopefully that will get done before it has a chance to get ruined.

LOVE this picture of Kyle carrying the wood. This was taken right when I got home. He was in a fowl mood because something wasn't quite right and it sent him over the edge for a bit. I came back outside when he was done pitching his fit.

Here he is trying to be mad. Doesn't work so great when your wife is looking at you through a camera lense.

New Moon

2011-02-04T22:01:00.000-08:00

Tonight is the New Moon. I didn't figure that out on my own, my desktop weather indicator told me this bit of information. Kinda cool. It's 52 degrees outside right now, 10:09 p.m. A far cry from what it was just a couple of nights ago; down into the low teens!

Thank goodness it's Friday. I am ready to have a weekend. Tomorrow I am going to go into town and help Kathy decorate for Erika and Corey's reception tomorrow night. Should take the morning she thinks and then it will be ready to go. I am going to be in there early, around 8:30 a.m. There goes a morning of sleeping in! Oh well, it's totally worth it. Looking forward to the reception and fun times. Gonna take my camera so hopefully I will get a couple of good shots. Maybe.

Kyle met dad and the rest of the family in town this morning and picked up my grandpa and grandma's table for our dining area. It is round. I have been looking for a round one so this fits the bill. He also brought home a mirror they had. It's cool. I am glad that we are able to use their stuff, not just have it sit in a storage unit.

I'm going to close with this great little saying by Rudyard Kipling:

Teach us delight in simple things.

Pax's Blanket

2011-02-03T21:55:00.000-08:00

Here's a picture of Pax's blanket she made for her design class last quarter. She is pretty proud of it. She should be!

Zebra back fabric......go figure!

You rock!

A Quote

2011-02-02T20:47:00.000-08:00

"Begin at the beginning and go on

till you come to the end: then stop."

King of Hearts, Alice In Wonderland

I like this little saying. Duh!!

This morning at 8:52 a.m. Briar sent me a text with a picture of the outside temperature in his world: -18 degrees.....and this was without the wind chill factored in. That's COLD!!

An Office Party

2011-02-01T19:15:00.000-08:00

Here is a drawing from Kate, one of our 4th period aides:

LOVE it!!! Jamming out to Kate's music....like that's going to happen (:

That's Esther and I sitting on the file cabinet... Jessica is on top of it, dancing. Guess she is the shortest of us and would fit on the file cabinet instead of just sitting on it. You are a goof, Kate. But a great one! I love that Jan, Tim and Chris are dancing to the tunes also. Love Jan's go-go boots. Why is Cynthia standing on the chair I wonder??? Kate made this original drawing and gave it to Marcie. Marcie put it on her door and I made a copy of it for me. PRICELESS Kate! Good job!

Monday....

2011-01-31T19:24:00.000-08:00

Volleyball

2011-01-30T20:17:00.000-08:00

Paxton had a volleyball tournament in Post Falls today. She went up skiing with Heinen's yesterday and I met her afterwards. We went to Post Falls and spent the night to get up early and go to the tournament. They were in a tough draw and ended up loosing their pool play. That meant that this afternoon they went into the consolation bracket.

Get some air!

This picture cracks me up. It looks like Paxton is trying to listen in on the opponents. I don't think that was the intention.

This is a blurry picture but it was one of her kills. The girls ended up beating a Timber Lake team, a Kootenai team and then loosing to an East Valley team to take second place in the best of the worst. LOL. Don't know how they ended up in the entire tournament, but better than they did in their first one! It was a COLD day in Post Falls but a good day of volleyball.

Nick played Special Olympic basketball today in Cheney. Their team went 3-1 and earned a spot in the State Tournament to be played in Wenatchee in March. Kyle officiated games so there are no pictures to share. Boo. Nick did well and was pleased with the day.

I am ready for bed! This week should be calm compared to last week. I am thinking anyway.

Good Words

2011-01-29T19:37:00.000-08:00

Never follow someone else's path;

it doesn't work the same way

twice for anyone...

the path follows you and

rolls up behind you

as you walk,

forcing the next person

to find their own way.

J Michael Straczynski

Unmarked Bauer Beauty

2011-01-28T18:56:00.000-08:00

Last weekend on my trip to the antique store with Nick, I found this "unmarked" Bauer creamer. Isn't it adorable?! The unmarked price tag was great too....didn't have to pay high end for the Bauer sure thing. Other creamers that were marked Bauer were going for $160 and $150 smackers. This one DID NOT cost anywhere near those amounts!

The week at school, {the first week of second semester} is finally over! Wow!! Grades are posted, schedules are adjusted, schedules are printed, report cards ran, report cards mailed, transcripts updated. Whew. Next week should be a breeze.

Random Questions & Answers

2011-01-27T21:10:00.000-08:00

Your cell phone....on mute

Your significant other....at work

Your hair....just dyed

Your mother....the smartest woman I know

Your father.....the smarted man I know

Your kids.....true blessings

Your favorite thing.....family

Your dream last night.....don't think I had one

The room you are in.....living room

Your fear.....spiders

What you're not.....clingy

Last thing you did before logging on.....switched laundry from washer to dryer

Where did you grow up.....on a farm

What are you wearing.....sweats

Your computer.....HP laptop

Favorite place.....ocean

Your mood right now.....relaxed

Missing someone.....yep!

Something you're not wearing.....high heels
Your life.....blessed

Big #7

2011-01-26T19:48:00.000-08:00

Can't believe we have been putting up with this guy for 7 YEARS now! Just kidding! Cash is the best! Look out 'Beautiful Mind' because this mathmatical wizard is going to take your spot. This kid knows square roots and he is only in the FIRST grade.

He walked right up to me when he saw me.....he knows that when it is birthday time and I am there that means birthday picture! Here he is showing me how old he is

Not sure why is making it look so hard here! Happy Birthday to You!! We love you to pieces!!

Next with the camera was this young beauty: {cake and all!}

She posed for this one and then afterwards she took my camera around taking pictures of everyone and everything. Just for her I will show you the one she took of me. My kids get after me because I am always the one with the camera and no pictures of me....so here goes:

Lovely. Just lovely. LOL

A Good Thinker

2011-01-25T18:42:00.000-08:00

Love this:

The dialogue with God which begins with the confession

of one's own failures is not depressing; it is liberating.

At last, perhaps even for the first time, we have

been honest with ourselves about what we are;

and we have been honest with the one Person

before whom there is no deception.

Emilie Griffin

Semester Two Starts...Ready Or Not

2011-01-24T19:27:00.000-08:00

Today was just what we were expecting...CRAZY!! With the start of the second semester, the crazies come out. All the kids get the opportunity to set a schedule prior to the real one taking place. The day of the real one...everyone has changed their minds. It is something that just makes the counselors fit to be tied. KIDS! I think they should all have to start whatever they finish. It seems that I am the only one on earth that feels this way. With the first day out of the way the rest of the week should go smoothly. Should that is. Tomorrow there is a survey that has to be completed for some of the students. We are going to have it during the STAT class so we will see how that interuption plays with plans of the teachers. I really don't particularly like days where the schedule gets some sort of a tweak. People tend to freak out because they don't handle change very well. This sometimes carries over to my day. How about a little cheese with this 'whine'??

On to something better. This weekend I went to town on Saturday with Nick to run a couple of errands. They were short and sweet and I ended up at a couple of my favorite antique stores. A month or so ago I needed forks so I bought some forks at one of the antique stores. They were so pretty. Well, this Saturday I found some spoons that I had to get because they were cute also. It is fun to have a variety of utensils. My next mission is to get some dinnerware. I have been looking for something I like but haven't had any luck. I am not interested in getting a bunch of matching place settings either. A few of one, a few of another, and a few of another would be great! Mix and Match. That's my new theme. Here's what my spoon and fork patterns look like:

Awesome huh!

The Jets and Bears lost yesterday. Looks like the Super Bowl is going to be the
Steelers vs Packers. Not too interested in either team winning. Do you think that both teams could tie at 0-0?? And there really wouldn't BE a winner???

Purge, Clean, Empty

2011-01-23T20:11:00.000-08:00

You would think it was spring around this house! I opened my cupboard today and decided I was tired of stuff barely on the shelf or falling down when the door opens. I went through my cupboards in the kitchen, pantry and in the hutch and threw a bunch of 'stuff' out! I am not a pack-rat by any means. I polished silver, wiped down shelves, brought out some plates to use and now can open my cupboard doors without fearing anything falling down.

I also did laundry, ran a vacuum, did some stuff for school, colored my hair, and traded dad a chair for my back room. It was a pretty productive day if I do say so.

A Little Insight....

2011-01-23T14:13:00.000-08:00

a month.....April

a day.......Saturday

an adjective....run

a color.....red

a flower.....daisy

a musical instrument.....piano

a fruit.....grape

a shoe.....flip flop

a plant.....ivy

a taste.....sweet

an emotion.....joy

a song.....Hello World

a store....Pottery Barn

a book.....The Notebook

a scent.....Channel

a tool.....hammer

a tree.....Crooked Willow

a verb.....love

Train Ride

2011-01-22T09:21:00.000-08:00

Mom called first thing this morning telling me to go look at the train going by. It was stunning! Full of 44 wind machine blades (probably not the technical term).

By being on a train it saves a lot of semi-truck work. Imagine passing a line of these on the freeway one after the other!

Kyle and Eric went to work at Commercial Tire. Kaylee came by for a quick "hi". She has amazing blue eyes! What a treat.

It's Friday

2011-01-21T20:21:00.000-08:00

This was the view outside my front door this afternoon when I got home from work. There was fog along the irrigation ditch, sun, clouds and blue sky depending on which way you were looking.

These clouds were to the north of my house....they were spectacular!

This view is looking south....the pump house is going to get painted this summer if it kills me! Maybe I shouldn't say 'kills' me, but I really want to get that done!

This week was a quick one at work....probably having Monday and Tuesday off had something to do with its speed. The semester is over as of today. Finals were yesterday and today, early dismissal today; the schedule was a disaster every day this week. Oh well, we made it through.

Watching the Australian Open tonight. One of the doubles match got into a tangle with the opposing players. Come on guys! Venus had to withdraw due to an injury. Isner is playing against Cilic; losing right now and Roddick is still in the hunt. 2 Americans left....good luck guys! I would love to see Roddick take the trophy. Don't think Nadal and Federer agree with me.

Looking forward to sleeping in tomorrow morning. Last night was not a good sleep night. I woke up several times. Not sure why. Ready to make up for it tonight.

Thought For The Day

2011-01-20T16:32:00.000-08:00

Be kind and compassionate to one another.

Ephesians 4:32

Back To School

2011-01-19T20:09:00.000-08:00

Back to getting up with the alarm clock this morning. Work went pretty good. It was busy enough that the day went by quickly. That was a bonus. Kids are taking finals today and tomorrow. Schedules have to be tweaked, fixed and ready to be handed out Monday morning. Shouldn't be too big of a problem.

Our Wednesday meeting was at Arlene's tonight. We witnessed the brightest, fullest moon coming up over the horizon right before dinner. What a great reminder of "only God"!

Jessica sent me these pictures of Paxton at Ki-Be at a volleyball game so I will share them since I don't have any of my own today. Enjoy.

Bookwork Day

2011-01-18T18:31:00.001-08:00

Got a lot accomplished today....in the office that is! I got up early today; no sleeping in on the last day of vacation. Geeze. I started laundry and then picked up the house. I checked out some blogs and then decided I had better get down to getting my office desk cleaned up. Going through the piles of bills, unopened mail, credit card bills and church stuff was just the start of being in the office all day. I went online and got all my 4th quarter reports finished and submitted and paid, did my Annual 940, December's B&O report and then started in on the credit card bills. After I got them all matched with jobs and accounts I got my checkbooks all up-to-date. I next tackled the files from 2010 and got them in order and in a box labeled and ready to access in case I need them when I do my 1040. That cleared a lot of space for the 2011 invoices and statements, etc. But why stop here??? The final big job that is no longer weighing on my shoulders to get done is my W-2's. They are filled in and in envelopes, ready to be mailed tomorrow. YEAH!! The only other big thing I have to do is get my 1099's done and my 1040. At least the January 31 deadline is not looming on my "to do" list anymore. Feels pretty good.

Brad got dinner tonight. He did a great job. Just kicking back on the couch right now, watching the Australian Open on tv. Roddick is playing a Russian and is just now pulling into the lead. Fish is playing Robredo and it's all over but the crying. Serena {edit: Venus not Serena} is the only ranked American woman still in the tournament. Not USA's year.

Back to the office tomorrow. Sure was a great 4 day vacation. Wouldn't mind having these more often!

Great Saying....

2011-01-17T20:05:00.000-08:00

I found this on a blog and loved it so I thought I would share (can't remember which blog, so my apologies to the original owner):

On The Right Track

2011-01-17T09:19:00.000-08:00

Here's the saying for January 17 on my calendar-a-day:

There is nothing like staying at home for real comfort.

Jane Austen

Volleyball....Not Such A Great Day

2011-01-16T19:59:00.000-08:00

So the O-Town Club volleyball team played in Kennewick today. They didn't have such a great day; they didn't have such a good day. Maybe it's because they haven't been playing together but at practices. They definitely should do better next time.....let's hope! Nowhere to go but UP!!

I like this picture...it's blurry everywhere but at Paxton. The girls played "in the pit" at Kennewick HS. They were down below and all of the spectators were up above.

Each team takes a turn doing lines and scorekeeping. Here we are.

This is us in the consolation bracket. The only good thing about not doing well was our day got over at 3:00 instead of 8:00.

Our next tournament is at Treaty Rock in Post Falls 2 Sunday's from today. Hopefully practice will go well and a few things will get ironed out.

Rainy Saturday

2011-01-15T18:44:00.000-08:00

Kyle went to work today at Boise Cascade and I started watching Clear Color (the photo editing video from Erin Cobb). I am totally amazed at how easy she makes it look. I haven't tried any of my pictures yet; am just going to watch it a couple of times and soak in all I can. Then give it a try. I have no doubt that it will take more than my BASIC knowledge of taking photos, let along editing photos to start getting the hang of things. The number of pictures I take is going to have to increase and I am going to have to start taking things a little more serious. THEN I may be able to be a decent photographer.....someday! I have plenty of time. Going to take things slow so I don't become too frustrated too quickly.

This afternoon I went and made a couple of ATC cards. I bought a kit from Donna Downey and am just goofing off with them. Hers all use specific colors and stamps that I don't have and am not going to go out and purchase. They are turning out just fine with what I have on hand. A nice way to relax. Here are a couple of pictures of my table top:

Direct TV and FOX have split the sheets and Direct TV no longer carries the channel. Unfortunately all the playoff football games are unable to be viewed! This just bites. We are going to have to come up with one of those tv boxes so we can see our local channels.

Tomorrow Paxton will play volleyball inKennewick. I am looking forward to watching volleyball again. Hopefully things will go well for their team. Should be interesting.

Spending the Weekend at Grandma and Grandpa's

2011-01-14T20:51:00.000-08:00

Emma and Mattie get to spend the weekend at grandma and grandpa's house! Kara and Eric are in Hawaii so the girls get a vacation also.

Moving their stuff from my car to Jan's. Weekend fun, here they come!

Mabton school lost electricity today so we switched venues for the basketball games tonight. I filled in for one of the ticket takers so got to see some of the games. Once that got over I am ready to be on vacation time myself! NO school until Wednesday!! YEAH!!

Wrestling For First In League

2011-01-13T22:26:00.000-08:00

This morning we woke up to black ice on roads in the northwest part of Franlin County, which translated into a 3 hour school delay. Whenever we have these unplanned, disrupted days, they ususally turn into crazy days at school. Today was no exception. I had a webcast/conference call at 9:30 and it was crazy from then on. There were also attendance appeals today for those kids in trouble with attendance and credits. That ties up 5 of our office people and that means more work for the 2 of us left. It's ok, just hectic.

Our wrestlers were wrestling for League Champs tonight against Ki-Be. We ended up losing 36-30. There were some exciting matches. It was what they call a dual match, with Ki-Be, Connell, Riverview and Burbank all coming for matches. Connell wrestled Ki-Be and Riverview. They beat Riverview easily.

Here's a couple of shots of our favorite wrestler (-:

Ryan wins with a pin.

Ryan waiting for his second match.

Jacob won his matches. Here he is thanking the ref.

Ryan during his second match against a kid from Riverview.

He pinned him! Good job!

Pay Phone

2011-01-12T21:12:00.000-08:00

You don't see pay phones very often anymore, if at all! This one sits outside the front door of the high school. I don't think it works anymore. I can remember phone booths! Those are extremely rare, at least around our parts! I guess I just wanted to take a picture of this to keep a part of history....ok. Enough!

The big snow storm we were suppose to get last night came and went without being too big of a pain. We did get maybe 2 inches of snow around here but that's about it. We didn't get the freezing rain which was suppose to come also so that was a bonus.

I was in charge of the Wednesday girls meeting tonight. Kyle helped me out big time by having dinner done for me when I got home. He took Kyle and Nick and went to have pizza in town. The spaghetti and meatballs were great.

Briar texted me tonight asking me if I knew that a small bottle of Tide cost $15.00!! Outrageous! My response: "wait until you have to buy it for a family!" Love these real world lessons!!

Happy Birthday, Nicholas!

2011-01-11T22:12:00.000-08:00

Today Nicholas turned 16 years old! Happy Birthday!!!!
We sang Happy Birthday had cake and he got to see what his presents were. I can't say that I am a great wrapper of presents, especially as the kids get older. He did get a duffle bag and got to "unzip" it to find all his other presents inside. He was thinking that the duffle bag was it but after we convinced him to check inside the duffle bag, he was pleasantly surprised to find several other things waiting for him, including a couple of packs of Pokemon cards.

Here he is actually unzipping the bag and getting a look inside! His sister called him tonight which was a big bonus. 16 years old! Wow! Where does the time go?????

Excitement!!

2011-01-10T20:02:00.001-08:00

I have always followed Karen Russell's blog. She is a photographer/blogger/scrapbooker from Oregon. She takes fantastic pictures and I took a class from her on-line a couple of years ago when I got my Canon camera. A couple of months ago she blogged about a photographer named Erin Cobb, whom she paid to come and teach her her photography and also some editing. Well, I started following Erin's blog, because what is good for Karen should also be good for Jennifer! Erin has decided to put together a video of how she edits her photos and I just bought it and downloaded the 'class'. I am so excited to see if I can really get it to work for me. It involves using PhotoShop so that is a big intimidating. I just ordered a couple of "Photoshop For Dummies" books from the library. Maybe with the 4 day weekend coming up I can get some time by myself, in front of the computer and get down to some awesome photo editing techniques! Wish me luck!!

This morning it was a bit hard to get up and get going. Once it started though, the day went by. I am randomly cleaning up cobwebs here and there, putting stacks of papers away, and getting some home decor back up in some blank spots left from Christmas in anticipation of the Wednesday Girls meeting here at my house this Wednesday.....uh the day after tomorrow!

Auburn is beating up on Oregon now in the Fiesta Bowl. I am rooting for the hometeam but it doesn't look good. At least it's not Florida, Texas or Ohio playing AGAIN for the championship!

Aren't These The Cutest??

2011-01-09T19:48:00.000-08:00

I bought these yesterday for Kaylee. I think they are adorable! I really wish they made these in bigger sizes!!

Yesterday was Erika's Bridal Shower. Kathy put it on for her. It was a great shower. She got a lot of cool house things. After the shower was the Bachlorette Party. I didn't attend that part of the festivities but I am sure they had a fun time.

Kathy...the hostess. Good job my friend!

Hung out with Kyle today. We went into town and just window-shopped at a couple of antique stores. Nice, relaxing afternoon. Work tomorrow.....yippeeeee!!!! Not!

JETS WIN

2011-01-08T20:17:00.000-08:00

The Jets beat the Colts 17-16!! Jets are Kyle's favorite so you can imagine the smiles around here!

SEAHAWKS WIN

2011-01-08T18:04:00.000-08:00

Seattle beat New Orleans 41-36!!!!
There was some money LOST today....BIG money!!

GO SEAHAWKS! GO SEAHAWKS! GO SEAHAWKS!

Another Thought

2011-01-07T21:14:00.000-08:00

Live your life while you have it.

Life s a splendid gift--

there is nothing small about it.

Florence Nightingale

Hello Weekend...

2011-01-07T19:24:00.000-08:00

Paxton: This is for you:

I know the answer to this........

Glad it is the weekend. It feels like the week was long but looking back it doesn't look like it. Don't know that that makes sense but....oh well!

We kind of had weird things happen today at school. It was a hard day emotionally. PLEASE remember kids, your actions today really DO catch up with you. For some, these re-actions happen sooner rather than later and the end result can be devastating. Usually, it's not the person in trouble that is the only 'sufferer' of the re-action. It's hard to stand back and see it happen.

This was the sky on the way home from work today.....magical. And here's another shot:

God does good work!

Humdrum Post

2011-01-06T20:46:00.000-08:00

I woke up this morning thinking it was Friday....NO. I get to wake up tomorrow to Friday. The internet went down for a couple of hours this morning. I hate it when it does that. The day tends to drag when that happens. Whether we like it or not the darn school day is tied to a computer and when that isn't available...things are ugly. We made it through though.

Came home and did bookwork: checkbook reconciliation, paying bills, fun, fun, fun. I have 3 accounts to do and only one gave me fits so I consider it a success.

It is rainy outside and 32 degrees. This equals icy conditions. Kyle had a scare coming home with the icy roads. He was glad to get home in one piece. He got his pickup back today but it's not right so it has to go back tomorrow. Ugh!

Kind of a late post tonight and it's almost time for Grey's Anatomy so I am gonna get going. Didn't even have a picture to post.

WoW

2011-01-05T20:26:00.000-08:00

Every time you listen with great attentiveness

to the voice that calls you the Beloved,

you will discover within yourself

a desire to hear that voice longer

and more deeply.

Henri J.M. Nouwen

Wednesday Girls

2011-01-05T20:19:00.000-08:00

It wasn't quite as cold outside today as it has been. Even tried to snow this morning. Too bad it passed on the idea as a whole...didn't do nearly enough of it. This morning on the way to work Jan's car decided it was tired. The alternator went out. The radio was going: "Now up, George Strait" waiting, waiting, waiting. Nothing. The headlights started going dimmer and dimmer. The car got tired. Thank goodness it wasn't too far from mom and dad's. Kyle to the rescue. He came in our car and then waited for Greg to come for the broken one. Our hero.

This was taken at Vangi's a week before Christmas at our last Wednesday meeting. It turned out pretty good of all of us I say. Tonight we were back in the groove, after Christmas vacation, and met at mom's. It's always a nice evening with these ladies.

Kyle's truck wasn't done today, much to his dismay. He did have a couple of meetings with potential clients so it wasn't all that bad. Plus he got to do a rescue this morning....the more I think about it, he had a pretty GOOD day!

Another Thought...

2011-01-04T19:44:00.000-08:00

Just think...

You are here not by chance,

but by God's choosing.

His hand formed you

and made you the person you are.

He compares you to no one else---

you are one of a kind.

You lack nothing that His grace can't give you.

He has allowed you to be here at this time

in history to fulfill

His special purpse for this generation.

A Good Bargain

2011-01-04T18:39:00.000-08:00

I am always on the lookout for wire baskets at thrift shops/antique shops/stores. They are way high priced! Usually they are around $45 for like the old locker baskets. While antiquing with the ladies last Thursday we were at a store in Prosser. I was at the checkout and something caught my eye, don't even remember what it was, but walked over to a shelf and on the bottom I found a wire basket with a price tag of $18.95! Needless to say I grabbed it and took it over to the checkout before anyone else saw it! My total was $16.15 - turns out it was on SALE for $14.95. If I would have turned the original price tag over I would have seen the discounted price...but then it wouldn't have been such a great surprise!! SCORE!!!!! Now it sits right next to my bed.

I saw this mosaic on a blog the other day. I just LOVE it! Thought I would share.

I am once again inspired to try to read all my bible this coming year. One of my bibles has a year plan to do just that. I am not going to say it is a 'New Year Resolution' or anything like that though, because I don't want to set myself up for failure. I am going to make it a personal goal and see what comes. I can do it. I am just like the Little Engine That Could!

Blocks

2011-01-03T17:40:00.000-08:00

The other day, Thursday to be exact, I went {antiquing} with my mom, Auntie and Pat. We started out in Stanfield at the Elephant Trunk, then proceeded to Ki-Be and the Rustic Rooster and ended in a couple of stores in Prosser. These were a few of my treasures:

LOVE them! What a great day we had. Can't wait to do it again.

COLD day today. Wore my Under Armour to work just in case. You never know in our office because the outside door opens two million times during the day. And then, if the office door gets opened also, it gets COLD in the office. It was a crazy day. We got 3 new kids at the high school today and 2 for tomorrow already. I do the district registering so I know the junior high got several new kids and a couple of "Mexico" travelers came back earlier than expected so one of the elementary schools got more kids. It is kinda not the norm for the beginning of January because a lot of our families leave and go to Mexico during December, not returning until the end of January or so.

Paxton started winter quarter at school today. She called to let me know that her Stress Management professor reminds her of my dad. I told my dad and he was excited saying, "I could do that class. I'll fill in for it. Tell her she already has an "A"!"

Kyle's truck is in the shop with some kind of back end problem. They gave him a rental for a couple of days so they can get his fixed. It is a Highlander I believe. One of those fancy things that doesn't require a key to start it. Wow! Wonder how much one of these things costs....not really. Don't need a new vehicle right now that's for sure!!

A Thought...

2011-01-02T21:04:00.000-08:00

It is never too late

to be what you

might have been.

George Eliot

Two In A Row....

2011-01-02T19:28:00.000-08:00

Last night I went with Briar to town to pick up a few things for him to take to school. Here's the beanie he picked out, complete with gloves...not. Cute though huh!??

Flying down the aisle, cart on its own.

Looks like college stuff huh! LOL......oh, to be 18 again!!

Today Paxton came over and we played her Scrabble game. It was fun. I have never seen one like this before. I won - of course! Maybe not.

Briar and Brianna came over to get the rest of his stuff packed up and to raid our freezer and pantry. We played a game of Phase 10. Briar won, then Brianna, and then I rallied for last place! Brad didn't want to play, but watched. He took this picture of Briar dealing. Look at the card coming out of his hand. Kinda cool!

Brianna doesn't like the way she shuffles.

We had to get some pictures of Briar before he takes off. These 2 are gonna miss each other tons!!

Nice.

Brad is definitely taller....much to Briar's dislike. LOL.

This is a great time in your life Briar. Enjoy all the opportunities and fun that await you.

We will miss seeing you everyday. We love you.

It's 2011

2011-01-01T17:14:00.000-08:00

It's the first day of 2011! Can't believe it. Not only is it January 1st, but baby, it's COLD outside! I don't think the temperature was much over 20 degrees today. I went to wash the outside of my french door this afternoon and the glass cleaner froze to the window. Needless to say it looks dirtier than it did before I touched it.

The vacation's end is in sight, unfortunately! I hate seeing it come to an end. Usually I am not this way. I do like being away from work for awhile but I am always ready to go back. As of right now, 5:30 pm Saturday afternoon, I AM NOT READY!! There is a big thing coming up in a couple of days so maybe that has me hating the thought of all of this coming to an end.

Christmas was fantastic. It was a pretty mellow day actually. When kids get older, they have their own families, boyfriends, girlfriends.....not so much time for our house! That's ok. They were all around for a bit of time and that is better than nothing at all.....so, I am NOT complaining. Mom and dad came over for dinner Christmas Eve. We made hamrolls and they rocked. The table was beautiful, if I do say so myself! Candles were lit and the food and company....couldn't get any better.

My paperwhites are blooming: well, 1 of them is. I still have a couple ready to go so that's good.

This is my Christmas present. I have been having a good time on it, searching the web, googling, blog searching, and playing Mahjong. What a great vacation......WHO would want to give this up??

VACATIO*N

2010-12-20T16:40:00.001-08:00

It's vacation time.....YEAH!! The weekend flew by and so did today! And, it's Monday! Monday's usually drag on...unless of course, they are part of a break--then they fly by.

The snow has been simply beautiful. Waking up to it the last couple of mornings has been a real treat. Let it snow! Let it snow! Let it snow!

I called Leslie today to see how to do concrete countertops. I am thinking that that is what I want. Kyle and I went into town on Saturday to take Kaylee home and we spent a couple of hours just browsing around Lowe's trying to get some idea of what we want for the kitchen. It is going to take some time to agree on ideas I can see that right away!

Vaccuumed today and did some bookwork. The rest of the day is being spent on the computer, just goofing around. Did I mention I love vacation?????

December 12th

2010-12-13T19:40:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we had our annual Reeve/Mauseth/Hailey Christmas party. Here are the 2 responsible for everyone else!!

Mom and Dad

2 of the "young" ones....looking mighty awesome in their red party dresses! Kennedy and Kaylee.

The whole Mauseth clan.

Jeff and Jenna, Lane, Cash, Chance and Kennedy.

Here we are, with Lane's head in the way. Good one!

And this is such a good picture of my mom, I thought I would throw it in there just because!

It was a great afternoon filled with LOTS of good food, good company and kid chaos! Love you all!!!!!

Back For A Replay....First Weekend Of December In Tacoma

2010-11-28T17:04:00.000-08:00

Yesterday the Connell Eagles beat up on the Omak Pioneers 55-21. The day started out with snow falling....so beautiful! It was cold when we got up but managed to get to about 32 degrees by gametime (4:00 p.m. at Lampson Field in Kennewick). The Kamiakin Braves beat Capital in the game prior to ours. Go Braves! People came dressed in snow pants and heavy coats, lugging in blankets and hot chocolate. The stands were packed with lots of Connell fans. Omak had its share also, but I bet they were wishing they were back at home. Not to take anything away from Omak, they were a good football team, just not good enough to come close to Connell. The win makes for a repeat of last year in the Tacoma Dome next Saturday, at 10:0 a.m. (Cascade Cristian beat Meridian 21-0.) By the end of the game my feet were frozen! The wind stayed away, thank goodness. The drive home was slow due to the heavy fog....the temp a mere 18 degrees! LOVE WINTER!!!! Go Eagles!! Time for another State Championship!!! Go Eagles!

A Walk In The Winter Wonderland...

2010-11-28T16:51:00.000-08:00

I took my camera outside in the fog and white this morning. It stayed foggy the whole day. Love webs that have frozen.

Had some company. All 3 of the cats followed me.

One Fall Day....

2010-11-23T11:27:00.000-08:00

Paxton offered to let me get some photographs of her a couple of Sunday's ago...and I jumped at the opportunity. Here are a few of my favorites:

You are beautiful!

Football vs Chelan

2010-11-23T10:59:00.000-08:00

Saturday at Moses Lake the Eagles beat the Chelan Goats. It was a repeat of last year, with the same results. Here are some pictures from the game:

Tyson getting intense in the huddle!

It takes a lot of Goats to get Bryant down.

Ryan grabbing an interception....

for a touchdown!!

Ivan with the kickoff.

Cheerleader picture!! (Just for you, Marcie!)

Blocked extra point attempt.

Ball on the ground.

MORE cheerleading shots!

CHS is the best!

Cole

Pax

The end result.

This Morning & This Afternoon

2010-11-22T19:45:00.000-08:00

Well, yesterday it was snowing in the morning....technically. There was NO accumulation, but snow was coming down from the sky so it was snowing. Let me tell you......last night the snow got down to business!! Woke up to a 2 hour delay this morning, and by 5:30 p.m. there has already been a 2 hour delay called for tomorrow.

This is my patio before I left for work:

This is my patio tonight at around 7:30.

LOVE the snow....the wind...not so much. It is howling out there right now. There is a snow warning in effect right now for our area until 7:00 a.m. tomorrow. They are calling for 3-7 more INCHES of the white stuff! Got my fingers crossed!!

NOW it feels like Winter!!

2010-11-21T07:53:00.001-08:00

This morning the wind is blowing out of the north, therefore, it is freezing outside.....AND,it is Snowing!!! Ever so slightly, but there is SNOW coming out of the sky!! YEAH!!!!!

Everyone Wins!

2010-11-07T08:15:00.000-08:00

Everyone wins this weekend, and I only have this one picture to show for it, and only because Briar texted me it after the game! Thanks.

The Eagle football team took on the Naches Valley Rangers Friday night in Connell. Unfortunately for Naches it wasn't much of a game. The quarterback, #18 - Christopher Walker, is a hometown Connell kid.....at least his mom and dad are alumni of CHS! He did well, but just not good enough against a great CHS football team. The Eagles came to prove a point and it was well made. The final score was 58-6. Next game: Saturday, 1:00 p.m. at Connell High School vs. Hoquiam. LONG drive for the Hoquiam kids, hopefully an even longer drive home.

The Lady Eagle volleyball team took FIRST in the District Tournament yesterday in Ki-Be. The tournament started Tuesday night at Connell against the Goldendale Timberwolves. The Eagles took the first 3 games. Saturday at noon they took on the #2 Naches Valley Rangers. It took 3 games to send them into the championship game, set for 4:00 against the Zillah Leopards. The Eagles DOMINATED the Leopards and took 3 games from them rather easily. FUN! FUN! FUN! Connell had a terrific hometown crowd that came to support them. That gymnasium was rocking....all for (well, mostly all) the CHS girls. After the second game all the parents gave the girls a standing ovation....the girls were on the court looking mighty happy. It was fun. One more tournament ladies....go get that State Title!!!!!!!

Last night at Hoquiam, the Columbia Basin Hawks took on the GreenRiver team for the Northwest Community College Football League Championship. They beat them 16-6, in the pouring down rain, for the title. I can't wait for Briar to wake up so I can get all the details. Good job boys!!

What a weekend. We sound a little big-headed, but OH WELL!!