WeeDragonflies

next steps

2012-02-15T19:00:00.002-06:00

Nobody tells this to people who are beginners.

I wish someone told me.

All of us who do creative work, we get into it because we have

good taste.

But there is this gap. For the first couple years you make stuff, it’s just not that good. 

It’s trying to be good, it has potential,

but it’s not.

But your taste, the thing that got you into the game, is still

killer.

And your taste is why your work disappoints you.

A lot of people never get past this phase,

they quit.

Most people I know who do interesting, creative
work went through years of this.

We know our work doesn’t have this special thing that we want it to have.

We all go through this.
And if you are just starting out or you are still in this
phase, you gotta know its normal and the most important
thing you can do is do a lot of work.
Put yourself on a deadline so that every week you will finish one
story. It is only by going through a volume of work that you will close that gap, and your work will be as good as your ambitions.

And I took longer to figure out how to do this than anyone I’ve ever met.
It’s gonna take awhile.
It’s normal to take awhile.
You’ve just gotta fight your way through.
By Ira Glass

This says so much to me I had to share it. I think I will frame it and hang it in my office as a reminder that I'm not the only one that's incredibly hard on themselves. Chances are someone I admire probably thinks or has thought they suck too. It's a process.

When I started blogging I wanted to do it because I really wanted a place to capture memories like an electronic journal. I thought it would be so great to have that to look back on. I've never been good at keeping a journal, electronic or otherwise, so of course this was no different. What I found my blog ending up to be was a platform for photography. Testing the waters to help me get brave enough to figure out if I really am good enough to take pictures of other people. And for that, it worked.

It started with a referral, then another...strangers that paid me even though I didn't ask to be paid, and they hugged me and called me a "photographer". It was the best feeling ever. That's how I knew it was time to take the leap. No, I'm not quitting my day job (people actually asked me that!), but I am doing something that makes me so happy. I'm experiencing what it's like to really be truly passionate about something and pushing myself into areas I never thought I would. I am learning more than I knew there was to learn. I am meeting great people and doing things I never thought I would or could do.

I am thankful for my husband who bought me my 35mm film camera then my digital SLR and encouraged me through the classes, tutoring sessions, dark room and everything along the way. I never knew how much that meant over the years, but I couldn't have done it without his push. I am lucky for great family and friends who have been so supportive with kind words and referrals! I'm thankful for the time of other photographers and business owners that I have bombarded with questions along the way. You know who you are, thank you!

Who knows, I may be back blogging again someday. But for now, please check out my new website when you have time www.floweringheatherphotography.com. I'd love to hear from you and love it if you thought of me the next time you or someone you know needs pictures :)

XOXO ~ Heather

mikelle

2011-08-31T21:11:00.001-05:00

Here's a weird thing that happened to me. I got a call one day from a woman in Grand Forks, ND, a friend of a friend of mine, asking if I wold take her daughter's senior pictures. I was completely floored but really honored and extremely freaked out. I couldn't say no, but in the back of my head I was thinking, what the hell are you thinking?! These people are driving like six hours for this. I gave them the whole "I'm not a professional speech". I almost said, "you know there are real photographers in ND, right?" But I didn't, and I'm pretty proud about that, because here's what I learned; I work really well under pressure. This forced me to take a step that I've been wanting to take for a long time. I was pushed outside of my comfort zone. I learned a lot and had a great time doing it. Bonus, Mikelle is a fun and beautiful girl, and her family was truly awesome (yes, the whole fam came on the shoot, even Dad). It was so great doing something I love so much and having this family trust and appreciate me.

I've been looking at and futzing with these for two weeks now. I know I still have a lot to learn and would love some constructive feedback. What do you think?

rocky mountain high

2011-08-15T22:16:00.001-05:00

A couple of weeks ago Joe completely surprised me with a trip to Breckenridge, CO. He had everything arranged...travel, kids, lodging.  He even called my boss to make sure I could get the time off. He employed the help of my friend Amy, and managed to keep it all top secret. I was so impressed. I love surprises!

We had so much fun. I have been to Breckenridge before, but only in the winter.  I loved it just as much in the summer. There is something about the mountains that is just so amazing. We hiked a ton. Hit the shops, great restaurants and the local brew pub.  The resort we stayed at was awesome, complete with a wood fireplace in our room and about 10 outdoor hot tubs on the property. Heaven. The only thing I was disappointed to miss was the concert with this guy doing all John Denver songs. (I know Carrie can truly appreciate how sad I was about this).

This trip rocked! Not only was it fun, but just plain relaxing. We were active and lazy all in one trip. We had uninterrupted conversations and time to just enjoy the silence.   He gets big points for planning such a great, for no apparent reason, surprise. Thanks babe ;)

Gondola trip to Peak 8

Top of Peak 8 before the hike down

Midway up hike to Mohawk Lake.

Hiking with a torn meniscus. What a die hard.

It was so pretty at the top. I want to go back! Like now. Right now!

just 'cuz

2011-08-04T18:00:00.000-05:00

Just because I haven't picked up my camera in months. Just because it was a warm summer night. Just because Ava and I were home alone and needed something to do after our grilled cheese dinner. Just because I can't believe how much my baby has grown. Just because seeing pictures of her takes my breath away and makes my heart happy. And just because she happily agreed to model IF she could choose her own outfit including crazy high shoes from my closet that she has declared hers once she grows into them. Just because, we took some pictures.

Oh how I love her :)

simple joys

2011-07-26T07:55:00.002-05:00

This beautiful lake is literally almost right out my back door. Even though I curse it on a regular basis for the cold temperatures it too often brings us, I do feel lucky to live and work next to one of the Great Lakes. It seems like there's never enough time in the summer. We really don't venture to the beach to play often enough. Sunday evening at the beach was the perfect way to wrap up the weekend. Ah summer...

13 years

2011-06-28T19:00:00.000-05:00

I don’t really do much by way of “I have such an awesome husband” or “my marriage rocks” type of posts. For one, Joe never reads my blog. Two, it just seems too oddly personal for me throw a bunch of stuff out there about us and our relationship. And really, I wonder, does anyone care? I mean, by nature I’m a pretty humble person, so rattling on about how awesome things are just seems weird. Plus I would probably feel compelled to post when it sucks too because I’m just honest that way, and who wants to read that? Let’s just say this is way out of my comfort zone.

However…13 years ago on 6/27 we got married. I do believe there’s some truth to being older and wiser. I’ve learned a lot about myself and my marriage these last 13 years (more in the last 5 than the first 8). I wouldn’t trade what I’ve got for anything. There are times I look back and cringe. We are both strong willed, I wear my emotions on my sleeve and I have spent a lot of time wanting to always be right (need I say more?). What I've learned though is recognizing your faults is more than half the battle. Then working on you and taking ownership of your emotions and feelings and recognizing that nobody can "make you feel" a certain way is the rest of the battle.

Even though it’s against my nature, I feel a little compelled to proclaim our success. We have worked super hard at our marriage. Now that we’re putting in the effort though, reaping the rewards is the best thing. Today I’m really happy. Not everyday is perfect, but I know I'm truly a better me, and I feel more secure and at peace with myself and my relationship with my husband than I ever have. I feel blessed to have such wonderful kids and family and awesome friends.

So, happy anniversary to my husband that will probably never read this, and if he does, he’ll think I’m a huge dork for posting it. I am lucky and love him so much because he encourages me, makes me laugh, builds me cool stuff, never thinks anything is impossible, dreams big, is an awesome dad, kicks my ass when I need it, takes care of me when I need it, thinks of others before himself…because he’s just genuinely a good person. And for that, and about 1000 other reasons, I am thankful.

progress

2011-06-14T07:36:00.011-05:00

Last July I posted the beginning of our remodel project as a 'one of many' post. HAHAHAHA Doing a project of this magnitude has put a whole new perspective on blogging for me. Clearly if I'm blogging, I have way too much time on my hands. I did take some pictures on my phone however, and I have about 2 extra minutes to post them. The photo quality is not great, but you get the idea. We are not done, but we're making progress.

Yes, I do now have 4 bathrooms to attempt to keep clean. Pure craziness since I never kept the first two clean.

Mud room lockers...my dream come true!

View of foyer from upstairs (sure I really call it a foyer, why not?!)

TA DA! This is truly where all our heart, soul, sweat and tears went. Agonizing over the layout of the kitchen, finding the 'right' cabinet maker, deciding on the wood, the color, the hardware, researching appliances and sinks and don't get me started on the counter tops (yes, they are concrete, yes Joe poured them himself, yes I spent hours sealing, waxing and buffing them and yes, they are gorgeous)

If things ever slow down I'll get back to blogging and post some better pictures of the completed project. But this is all I've got for now.

family picture accomplished

2011-06-01T07:56:00.012-05:00

I have a lot of pictures. Mostly pictures without me in them. Something Gina said on her website got me to finally quit making excuses and get our family picture taken: "I believe that moms are not in pictures enough and that babies grow up way too fast. " My kids are 9 & 7. Before long they will quit changing so dramatically from year to year, and they will roll their eyes rather than laugh a lot during a photo shoot. We finally found a sort of warm May day where we could carve out a couple hours in our busy schedules to just be together. To laugh at and enjoy each other while Gina snapped away. We had so much fun, and I'm even a little inspired to get my camera out again. Thank you Gina, I'm so happy with the results!

Flying Wild Alaska

2011-01-17T19:33:00.004-06:00

There is a new reality series on the Discovery Channel called Flying Wild Alaska. The cool thing about this show is that I've not only met, but spent a fair amount of time with the main players, the Tweto's. Jim Tweto is Joe's best friend's brother. Jim and Fern have been to our house for dinner, and I had the opportunity to hang out with many of the Tweto's including Jim, Fern, Ayla and Aerial while in Belize a couple years ago. Cooler yet, Joe has had many great times flying and hanging out in the areas that are highlighted on the show. He's known Ayla and Aerial since they were babies. I think watching the show brings back lots of good memories for him. And for me, well what more could a reality show junkie ask for?!

Jim and Fern in Belize.

Joe and Fern sharing some laughs.

Tweto girls at the beach.

I'm quite sure this is about as close as I'll ever get to fame.

Family Picture Attempt

2011-01-02T19:15:00.013-06:00

This year Joe and I took a majority of the week between Christmas and New Years off. Typically the kids split their break time between us and daycare, but this year we were with them everyday. It was a great combination of relaxing, playing hard and getting things done.

I had a pretty specific list of things I wanted to try to do while I was off. Set up my new computer (which arrived Christmas Eve!) was number one. I have wanted/needed this for so long, but the whole getting it set up part is about the furthest thing from fun for me. I work for a software company. When I get a new computer, someone else sets it up for me. Despite my dread, it was quick and painless. Of course I haven't actually transferred any files from my old PC yet...

Running a close 2nd on the to do list was to take a picture of the four of us. I was dreading this almost as much as setting up the computer. The thought of trying to get us all looking decent, finding good light and background, dealing with the tripod (which I hate) and actually locating the remote for my camera were just a few of the reasons I found for why this wouldn't work. And here's just one reason my husband is awesome; he knew I wanted to do this, and he encouraged and helped me make it happen. We were nearly late for Christmas Eve dinner because he insisted I continue to try to get 'the shot'. Which I never actually got. While I was hoping for something amazingly perfect, the light was challenging and cutting off my own head was a recurring theme (it's really hard to compose a picture with an imaginary person in it). But, it was fun. I love Joe for pushing me to do the things I love.

Ava's forever the helper. Here's my test shot. Probably my favorite picture out of all 61 that I took.

New #1 on my to do...get someone else to take our picture.

tagged

2010-12-01T20:18:00.001-06:00

For the love of God, apparently I was “tagged” by Gina a couple weeks ago. I just now noticed. It’s like getting a chain letter…what if I break the chain and wreck the game?! So here it goes.

RULE #1 : People who have been tagged must write their answers on their blogs and replace any question that they dislike with a new question formulated by themselves.

RULE #2 : Tag 4 people to do this quiz and they cannot refuse. These people must state who they were tagged by and cannot tag the person whom they were tagged by. Continue this game by sending it to other people.

1. If you have pets, do you see them as merely animals, or are they members of your family?
I love them but they drive me nuts…I guess that means family.

2. If you can have a dream to come true, what would it be?
Have enough money to end all worries and travel.

3. What is the one thing most hated by you?
Compulsive liars. That’s actually Gina’s answer, but I’ll go with it. I tend to get irritated a lot but not truly hate all that much. I can’t really list off many people I know who fit the “compulsive liar” mold, but I do hate being taken advantage of, had, sold, mislead for the purpose of other’s gain, etc.

4. What would you do with a billion dollars?
Spend more time with my family and give them things they want, travel more to more exciting places, pursue more hobbies, maybe even further my education just for fun – ha!

5. What helps to pull you out of a bad mood?
Talking it out. I can’t keep anything to myself. I rarely hold a grudge unless I’m darn good and mad. Usually Joe or Carrie get the brunt of it, and they are both very good listeners.

6. Which is more blessed, loving someone or being loved by someone?
Being loved.

7. What is your bedtime routine?
The usual…brush, maybe floss, wash face, blah, blah, blah

8. If you are currently in a relationship, how did you meet your partner?
We met at the Superior Airport (yes, there is an airport in Superior!). Joe had a plane at the time that he kept there. I lived in the apartment above the hanger.

9. If you could watch a creative person in the act of the creative process, who would it be?
An artist, a photographer or maybe a writer. I would love to learn more about how to pursue passions like that.

10. What kinds of books do you buy?
I rarely buy books. I’m more of an exchange kind of person. Hence the reason I’m passing on the free Kindle from work (gasp!)

11. How would you see yourself in ten years time?
OMG! My oldest child will be graduating. Let’s just not talk about that right now.

12. What’s your fear?
Wasting time. Not seizing the moment or appreciating the little things quite enough. There is so much good around me. I am afraid I may have already wasted time not making the most of it.

13. Would you give up all junk food for the rest of your life for the opportunity to visit outer space?
Are you flippin’ crazy?!?

14. Would you rather be single and rich or married, but poor?
Marriage is hard work, but I’m happily finding it is so worth it. Married, but poor it is.

15. What’s the first thing you do when you wake up?
Hit the snooze, about 5 times. Unless it’s a weekend, then tell my kids to go watch TV.

16. If you could change one thing about your spouse/partner what would it be?
There are actually a lot of really awesome things about my husband. His ability to live in chaos, while truly a gift, drives me up the wall.

17. If you could pick a new name for yourself, what would it be?
Seriously? I’m good with my name. Thanks Mom.

18. Would you forgive and forget no matter how horrible a thing that special someone has done?
Yes. Time heals all wounds.

19. If you could only eat one thing for the next 6 months, what would it be?
I can’t think of anything I wouldn’t be sick of after 6 months. Maybe chips & salsa.

I tag Carla, Amy, my niece Anna…this is so sad, I don’t know anyone else with a blog that hasn’t already been tagged.

spooktacular!

2010-11-01T11:47:00.007-05:00

We went to my parent's for Halloween weekend. Which meant I got out of attending sugar infused carnivals and kid parties at home. There was a downtown business trick-or-treat in my hometown. A perfect Saturday afternoon outing. Gabe chose to recycle his storm trooper costume from last year, minus the missing mask (which of course I found bright and early the day AFTER Halloween). Ava went as an witch. She was a witch 2 years ago and, thanks to a new Old Navy witch skirt ($2.98), she was set!

We managed to get back in time for local trick-or-treating, joining Carla and company. It was a lovely evening to stroll the neighborhood. Ah...on to the next holiday.

my girls

2010-10-23T21:29:00.004-05:00

A couple weekends ago I met up with my college roommates for a wonderful weekend in Bayfield. We get together each fall. No matter where it is we meet, we always manage to have a great time. Lezlie invited us to stay at her brother-in-law's lake cottage. It was so gorgeous...4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a beautiful view of the lake, complete with spectacular sunrise each morning. We went to Madeline Island for lunch, enjoyed the scenery and met some interesting locals. Back in Bayfield, somehow we talked right through the dinner hour...well Lez napped a little too (she doesn't do well when we feed her vodka before noon).

We stayed up late, talked non-stop and Sunday morning enjoyed our books in the cozy living room. I love these girls so much. Love that we can pick right up where we left off the last time without hesitation. Love that we can practically predict each other's behavior and typically finish each other's sentences. Love that they are so easy to be around. I am so blessed to have these beautiful, sweet, funny, caring, humble, thoughtful, crazy, charismatic women in my life. Thanks for a lovely weekend girls. One that was so good for my spirit and my soul. I love you all and can't wait for the next one!

big picture

2010-10-18T08:33:00.004-05:00

I have so many pictures still in my camera...end of summer, back to school, birthdays, girls weekend...but here I am again posting another picture from my phone of our house. This project consumes our lives right now. Hopefully soon I'll be able to get back to my camera and add variety to my posts. For now, if you even care anymore, here's the big picture of the remodel. This is what you see when you drive in our driveway. The parts that are in blue, along with the entire back side are still unfinished. Slowly but surely it's coming together. We are so thankful for all our friends who have given up time with their families to help us out. They are more ready for this project to be done than we are, I'm sure. Thanks for sticking with us guys! This couldn't have happened without all of you! (The hilarious part is I'm certain not one of them reads any blog, ever. I just keep feeding them in hopes they will come back.)

remodel update

2010-10-11T20:00:00.000-05:00

How do you feel about red siding? I wasn't sure how I felt, but that's what Joe picked. I know, so weird that I'm letting my husband make this kind of choice. After all, isn't color a "girl thing"? He's been very involved in the exterior design of the house. I think he's doing pretty good so far. What do you think?

my baby is 7 (updated)

2010-10-03T10:55:00.001-05:00

For the record, I did not forget my daughter's birthday. Unfortunately, I had to be out of town for work that day, which absolutely killed me! She's seven now. I cannot believe it myself. I barely remember that chubby little baby. She's so grown up, but she'll always be my baby.

Dear Ava,

From the moment your dad said, "it's a girl!" and I said, "SHUT UP!" I knew we were really lucky to have you. Life has been so much more fun with you in it. You are an incredibly special little girl that I would be utterly lost without.

Ava...funny, fun, dramatic, quirky, weird, lovable, girly, helpful, outgoing, spirited, sweet, ruthless, relentless, crazy, cute, curly, cuddly... These are just a few of the adjectives I can easily use to describe you. I love being your mom.

Love,
Mom

Update:
I finally got around to getting Ava's birthday pictures off my camera. I completely forgot to mention the highlight of her party. She wanted the spanking machine...15+ people, grandparents included, lined the hallway so Ava could scoot through. HILARIOUS. No picture, but trust me it was very funny. I love that crazy kid. And I love this picture. She's so happy and a little embarrassed with everyone singing to her.

going batty

2010-09-27T10:11:00.003-05:00

If you care, I am terrified of bats. Last night, I was laying in bed reading with just my little reading light on, when I hear a "flopping", "flutter", distinct wing movement kind of sound. Throw my book down, shine my miniature light all over while waking up Joe, "WHAT WAS THAT FLOPPING NOISE?!" He thinks I've gone crazy, there's no flopping noise, he rolls over. Back to my book. I see a shadow zoom over my head. OMG, it's a bat!!! (see first sentence, terrified of bats) My screaming gets Joe's attention. He's irritated that I'm keeping him awake at 11:00, and there certainly is not a bat in our house. "Probably a moth." There's nothing worse than being terrified and having the person your with doubt you or not take your terror seriously. I know all too well how a bat sounds and looks - Towers, 10th floor...bring back any memories my UWEC friends?! It swoops over again. He saw it this time. I have made confirmation. It's a bat. Scream, Scream, Scream. Throw covers over my head and try not to cry. Meanwhile, my husband ponders, "how did a bat get in here...?" Hello, we don't care how it got in. GET IT OUT.

If you've been to our house, you know that our bedroom is a loft that is open to the living room and kitchen below. I'm sure the bat was having great fun flying from our room all the way across the house and back. The damn thing landed at the top of our rock chimney (I think it's around 16' high). I really could have cared less where it landed, or what had to be done to get it out. Joe knew there was no sleep in his future until it was out. I scurried to the bathroom and closed the doors while Joe hauled in a huge ladder to remove it. Then I paced for while and went back to bed with the covers as close to over my head as I could manage, because I was sure there were more.

This is part of the joy of remodeling. Opening your well sealed house up for all unwanted little critters to sneak in. I just know mice are next. Lord help me.

run a 10k, check

2010-09-20T10:18:00.001-05:00

Actually, it was 6.6 miles but "run a 6.6 mile run" wasn't as catchy as "run a 10k". Anyway....I had so much fun running Bangin' in the Brush, a 6.6 mile trail run at the Korkki Nordic ski trail. I love skiing at the Korkki. It is by far my favorite place to ski. Being out there without snow was fun. A completely different perspective. I had no trail running experience to speak of and had never run further than 3 miles in my life, so this was challenging for me. The trail was wet and MUDDY, hilly and treacherous. It was a gorgeous day though. I managed through the mud, only tripped twice and came out in one piece. The winners got homemade cookies! They also gave away a ton of raffle prizes from fresh baked bread and homemade honey to new cross country skis! Plus they give you beer at the end...bonus!

Once again my cousin-in-law, Jen, joined me. We agreed this run was one to do again. Maybe I am a runner after all...

still remodeling

2010-09-12T15:21:00.004-05:00

Yesterday was a big day on the addition project, we broke through. OK, Joe & Bud broke through, but you knew what I meant. They took out the windows of the existing house to re-purpose them in the addition. I'm not sure why I thought we'd have a lovely view of the addition from the house during this entire project. In my mind everything would be perfectly contained until the momentous day when the other side was done. Um, no. Of course not. That would leave gaping holes in two other places in the addition - duh. So out came the windows and now we look directly into blue styrofoam. Kind of cave-like really. The good news is that when it was all opened up, it was so nice! Our architect really focused on making this not seem like an addition, and he did good! It has a great open flow and feel (after you hurdle the existing wall that is).

Here's the view from dining room to the soon to be new kitchen.

Joe has spent a heap of time concentrating on curb appeal. From the roof lines, shingles, siding and even door styles and color. I can't wait for the siding to really see how it all ties together.

Here we are in the backyard. I think it's so funny how whenever I hold up my camera my kids stop and pose until they hear the click. Keep movin' Ava, just taking a picture of the house. Look, I had to take 2 pictures because I couldn't get back far enough with the 50mm. You get the general idea.

So far, I love this project. Don't get me wrong, it's been a ton of work, mainly for Joe. I know my time is coming with painting and staining, and maybe I won't love it so much then. It's so much different from when we built the house though. I think we actually learned from some of our mistakes the first time around.

addition update

2010-09-09T19:26:00.003-05:00

This picture stinks, but it gives you the general idea of where things are at. Shingles on, windows in and doors on the way. Very exciting! I promise to take more pictures over the weekend.

what to do when your kid's teacher gets a better back to school picture of your kid than you do?

2010-09-08T15:59:00.006-05:00

Post it.

happy birthday baby

2010-08-15T22:02:00.003-05:00

Gabe turned 9 on Friday. My sweet, good boy is growing up. I remember so many details of Gabe's birth and those first few, precious months that it's hard to believe it was that long ago. The days of elaborate birthday parties are all but gone now. We used to go over the top with hot air balloon rides, giant bouncers and extreme cakes. This year he just wanted a few friends to invite to the water park and dinner and cake with his family. That's exactly what he got. Sort of bittersweet really.

Gabe, you're my favorite boy, I love you so much you can't even imagine. I remember singing "You are My Sunshine" to you when you were a baby and it making my heart hurt. You may be almost as tall as I am, but you'll always be my baby. Happy Birthday my good boy, I love you.

going up

2010-08-15T21:24:00.005-05:00

I found myself saying "are you kidding me?!" about 1000 times this weekend watching this addition go up. We had a great turnout for help and the results are truly amazing. Thank you Mom & Dad for coming and helping with the food, kids, Menards run and all the rest. Thank you to all our wonderful friends who took time away from their families to help us. We could not have done it without all of you. Thank you Bud always for everything you do. We are truly blessed to have so many wonderful people in our lives.

So take a look see. Now there is roof. Yeah!

As I was taking pictures, I saw a head pop up over the very high peak of the roof. Not really weird since there's like 9 guys working up there, but is that Gabe???

Zoom in...um, yes. Holy crap. I better not say anything. "Get the hell off that roof right now!" may be disastrous.
Mind you I am terrified of heights so this "I'm not scared, Mom!" / "Look Mom, no hands!" move didn't sit well with me either.

progress

2010-08-03T21:22:00.006-05:00

Remember the dirt pile that I told you was the addition? Progress has been made.

Plumbing has been put in.
Then concrete on the garage floor.
And concrete on the rest of the floor.
This week we have walls! I am in awe of the progress even though I've seen Joe do this so many times before. He works harder than anyone I know. He sets goals and pushes himself to meet them. He talks me through my freak outs over what color cabinets, how big to make the closet door, water in the island or no water in the island...he makes this fun. So tonight I am thankful. I am thankful for walls and a brilliantly talented husband that can build them. Thankful for friends and family that have come together and help put these walls up. I am thankful for 13 challenging years of marriage. Thankful that we've trudged through the hard stuff to build a family and a home. I'm really thankful for walls...

remodel part 1 of many

2010-07-17T09:29:00.004-05:00

After years of discussing if we should add on, buy a new house, buy land and build a new house, we finally made a decision. We started our remodel project a couple weeks ago. The pictures are so un-interesting but so is a post with no pictures. It's a huge mess, my patio is all but gone, the driveway is cluttered with large equipment and tools, but the end result will be well worth it.

Here is the new view from my bedroom window. It's my very own attached garage right off a brand new mudroom. Can't you see it? The new kitchen and den are not shown here, but they look pretty much the same.

haircut

2010-07-17T09:25:00.003-05:00

Remember the fauxhawk?

I finally gave in on the real deal. He's still pretty darn cute if you ask me.

nieces

2010-07-16T16:40:00.000-05:00

I have a lot of nieces and nephews. Two of them are going to be seniors this coming year. My sister-in-law asked me to take their senior pictures. I gave her the "I'm not a professional" disclaimer, and they showed up on my doorstep anyway. I am so happy they did. We had such a great time! This was a great opportunity for me to spend time with the girls. They are silly and sweet (yes, Jolie, they are sweet!) and a lot of fun. I don't think I've realized over the years how much they've grown up. Thank you Heidi and Haley for letting me part of this time in your lives.

summer

2010-06-30T20:39:00.005-05:00

Grandma's Marathon weekend was F U N fun at our house. I even took a few random pictures. Looky here...

Amy supervising giant marshmallow roasting. Clearly Steve does not know what he's doing (I just know that's what she's thinking - HA!)

Did I mention they were GIANT marshmallows???

How cute are little girls? Seriously cute.

You know you're a redneck when...you use the air compressor to get your fire started. Ok, this is probably not safe.

Ah summer....

run a 5K, check

2010-06-21T20:23:00.004-05:00

I keep telling myself should make a bucket list of all the things I want to do before I die. Like writing them down will make me actually do them. I never actually follow through on the whole making of the list though. Probably because I'm just too lazy. Or maybe because I have more determination than I give myself credit. If I really want something, maybe I don't need a list...

List or no list, running a race was never on it. I'm not a runner. Then last summer Joe's cousin Jen highly encouraged me to take up running. This spring she asked me to join her in the William A. Irvin 5K. So I did. I know it's only a 5K, but I'm pretty proud of myself for setting a a goal that was difficult for me and sticking to it. I really hated the running, but really loved the feeling of accomplishment and having my family there cheering me on. I can still picture Gabe jumping out of the crowd waving and yelling like crazy when he saw me. It was really awesome.

Here's proof I did it, don't mind my lack of style.

Thanks for all your encouragement Jen, you rock! And make me laugh REALLY hard!

And no, I won't be running the Marathon or even the half next year, so don't even ask.

The End

oh yeah...we went to FL

2010-06-13T14:52:00.011-05:00

...in April! Ok, so I don't blog much anymore, whatever. We've been to Orlando so many times, but this was the best trip yet. Largely because we went with Carrie and family again AND our kids are older and more self-sufficient which means they require less supervision and leave us alone more. Yet they are still young enough to want us around, lovely. Our trip was the perfect balance of downtime and activities. So much fun...let's do it again guys!

We were there over Easter. Easter egg hunt, steak and shrimp on the grill, Vicki racing the kids around the pond after a few glasses of wine...it's a long story, don't ask. Very fun night.

We topped off a great evening with a late night drive to Merrit Island near Cocoa Beach where we spent the night so we could get up at 4:30 AM and watch the Space Shuttle launch. So worth the drive and the lack of sleep!

We never go to Orlando without hitting Fun Spot. It's a great park with carnival type rides. The kids seem just as happy here as they are at any of the big parks. Why we continue to torture ourselves is beyond me. It was beautiful out each day of our trip. The colors at Fun Spot with the evening sky were gorgeous.

Although I kind of like this one better in sepia.

I hope these boys are friends forever. Makes my heart happy.

We also did Universal, went out a lot and had a ton of pool time. Those pictures are all apparently on Ava's camera, which I just don't have energy for at the moment.

winter revisited and spring has sprung

2010-03-21T12:57:00.009-05:00

Spring cleaning apparently includes getting the winter pictures off my camera...finally!

A quick look back at Christmas. Ava looks like one of the Price is Right girls presenting her brother here.

Oh, my pretty girl with the twinkly Christmas lights...

Gabe wanted a mohawk in the worse way. When he got his haircut before Christmas, Darcy kept agreeing that she'd give him one. Meanwhile I'm standing behind him shaking my head at her - no way! She cut it so he could get it to stand up with a lot of product. He was a little disappointed that it wasn't a "real mohawk". Bless Darcy's heart for convincing him it was a unique kind of mohawk and he needed to own it.

Hmm...peace dude or rabbit ears???

We went skiing, cross country and downhill, a lot this winter. We took the kids to Giants Ridge and Powder Horn along wih the local hills. They did great! Ava joined me on a few jaunts at Korkki Nordic on the skinny skis. The girl has some natural ability and real potential. I'm looking forward to having her as a ski partner. Gabe took snowboard lessons. I have a feeling he'll be pushing to do more of that next year. Our last outdoor winter adventure was sledding a few weeks ago with the Meneghini's. We had fun! Well right up until the point that Carla had a major wipeout that is. I didn't get a picture of her taking the jump on a saucer. Trust me, she had some major air going.

Paul and Kasey cruising.

Look how cute Carson is...

Just as cute upsidedown!

I have about 100 pictures of Joe with various kids piled onto one sled. They have the same expression in every single picture. Love it :)

That's enough about winter. On to spring!!!

As I was sitting here working on this, I looked out the window and saw the kids on their bikes. My camera was right there. How could I not go snap a few pictures to capture these gorgeous kids enjoying another beautiful early spring day (thank you Mother Nature!) .

Living in the country in the spring means mud boots. Ava can make them work with any outfit. Pre-ride warm up?

I still remember coaxing Gabe to ride a bike. When did he grow up?

She actually considered asking for training wheels back, but then she decided to see if she could remember how to ride first. Good choice, A.

I'm happy it's spring. I can't wait for summer. Now it's my turn to go enjoy the day!

skiing at spirit

2010-01-30T20:45:00.003-06:00

We love to ski! Gabe and Ava have been skiing for several years now with no real injuries, until today. I didn't know what to think when I saw skis and polls scattered all over the hill Ava standing wide eyed, Charlotte (8) with her back to me, Gabe curled up in a ball on the ground. When Charlotte turned around and I saw the gigantic goose egg on her head, I knew something bad happened. Gabe and Charlotte collided. Heads hitting heads or heads hitting helmets, who knows. Ava says it was loud, and I can tell you it had to have been ugly. I went to Gabe, crying like crazy. He lifted his head and looked at me, and I was in shock when I saw the huge bruise growing above his eye. He couldn't even open his eye! Apparently head injuries like this can look worse than they are. Joe finally told me to step away when I wouldn't quit freaking out about him needing to go to the hospital. In the end, he's fine. I'm his mom, so I'm sure I'm making more out of this than it is, but I think it looks horrible. Here he is about 5 hours after it happened. What do you think?

happy birthday amy!

2009-12-25T16:01:00.001-06:00

You get totally ripped off having your birthday on Christmas, but I remembered you! Happy Birthday to my friend that I love to laugh with, that tells the best (albeit longest) stories and is always the last one to call it a night. Hope you have a great birthday and a good Holiday too!

belly pics

2009-12-20T13:01:00.006-06:00

I want to be a really good photographer. Of course, I want this to happen on its own. I want to be naturally good at it...yeah, pretty sure that is not going to happen. Now that my kids are older, I've let myself spend more time with my camera. I'm on a mission to find new subjects that will let me take up their time in hopes that they'll get one or two decent pictures out of it, and I'll get some good practice. I hope Jamie and Kevin find something they are happy with after today's shoot. It wasn't nearly as terrifying as I thought it would be. It was fun! I learned a lot, and I'm so appreciative of their time. (And thanks Joe for building the backdrop for me!)

How cute are they?!?

Less than a month to go!

Some peoples say it's cheesy, but we just had to do the heart...I like it :)

By the way if you need pictures taken of yourself or your kids, give me a call...I still need A LOT of practice!

let's find a Christmas tree!

2009-12-06T21:57:00.005-06:00

About 12 or so years ago I had the brilliant idea that we should cut our own Christmas tree. Not go pay to cut a nice tree, but a good ole fashion Charlie Brown tree. We live on 13 acres, how hard can it be to find a decent tree? Let me tell you, it's hard. It's really hard. After the fiasco last year (the thing was so spindly it actually fell over), I said enough. Of course this meant breaking the "tradition" that I somehow created. The kids were sad. And I was a little sad too. I grew to like those hikes and snowmobile rides through the woods. Even if they resulted in a not even close to perfect tree.

After I convinced the kids that getting all the ornaments on the tree without it toppling over was a good thing, we decided we would go buy one from our church this year. Then we had an idea, tree farm? Gabe shouts, "Yes! Everybody wins!"

And everyone did win! A nice hike on a gorgeous day through stands of way closer to perfect Christmas trees. We have a tree with more than 5 branches! Life is good.

look who got her ears pierced

2009-11-18T10:04:00.002-06:00

Her dad finally said "I think you're ready to take care of your ears if you want to get them pierced..." and that's all it took. I promptly took Ava to the mall on Saturday. Without a second thought she hopped in the chair and the rest is history. She never cried or freaked out in the slightest. That is saying a lot for Ava! She's taking great care of them, and she is really, really proud :)

15 minutes of fame

2009-09-29T17:30:00.001-05:00

Our niece Holly works in marketing and decided Ava was cuter than the stock photos she had at her disposal. She did a photo shoot with her over the weekend and has already created this banner to put in one of their stores. So what if nobody in that town knows us and we'll never be at that store. It was still fun!

happy birthday tara!

2009-09-24T08:13:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday dear TTTTTTTARA!!!!! Happy Birthday to you! Hope you catch a big one on your special day!

ava's in kindergarten!

2009-09-22T20:51:00.003-05:00

I know for a lot of parents it's bittersweet when their baby goes to kindergarten. That's how I felt when Gabe started at least. With Ava, I did not have this feeling. Not one bit. She is ready. She has been ready for almost a year now in my opinion. She is so anxious to learn. She is mad she doesn't know how to read or tie a shoe yet. She gets frustrated when she can't make her little 'g' just right. She brings her "homework" to the before/after school program and works on it before she plays. She wears her "glasses" to school when she's feeling extra studious. (she doesn't really wear glasses by the way) She's a teachers pet, social butterfly, class clown all wrapped into one. I love it! Ava starting school has been so much fun. She raises her hand at dinner now when she wants to say something, and she shows off a new skill or tells at least one story about what she did each day. When I asked her the first week of school who she sat by at lunch, here's what she told me.

Ava: "I sat by Pavo"
Me: "Pablo?"
Ava: "NO....PAVO"
Me: "Pavo?"
Ava: "Yes, but he told me to call him avocado because his name is hard to say. And he calls me banana. Well, I call him Mr. Avocado and he calls me Mrs. Banana."

Now that is something I need to remember!

back to school

2009-09-22T18:25:00.005-05:00

I am so far behind with blogging, that I don't even know where to begin. I'm imagining the next several posts to be extremely random and haphazard. A whole last half of the summer, including Gabe's birthday, summer camping, soccer games and so much more has gone on. I guess we were having too much fun for me to stop and blog. For now, I'll start in the middle. Gabe's first day of school. Not such a big deal under normal circumstances. He's in 3rd grade now, he knows the ropes...right? Except this year, less than one week before school started, we found out Gabe was accepted to a local charter school. Great! Except we had to switch gears, return school clothes, try to find uniforms (who knew tan pants without cargo pockets were that tough to find), and, oh yeah, sell Gabe on leaving his friends and starting over at a new school.

We did it! I still am not sure how we got Gabe from "No. No thank you. Absolutely not." to "Yes, mom please, I want to go..." in less than a one hour conversation. But we did, and we are so thankful for it. Gabe has been a real trooper. He misses his friends while he slowly makes new ones. The longer school days and more specialized time have already made a difference. He's been proud of his progress and improvements. We are so proud of him! And really, he looks so good in the uniform.

happy birthday carrie!

2009-07-29T13:38:00.005-05:00

Carrie is my very best friend. You don't see a lot about her here because she lives so stinking far away (and I miss her all the time!).

Carrie and I met our freshman year in high school in English class. I'd like to say we never had an argument in all that time, but, along with a lot of fun, we had pleanty of falling outs. We made our way through high school, mended our friendship just in time to get our request in to be roommates at UW-EauClaire.

In my entire life, I have shared more laughs and tears with Carrie than anyone else. She has been the closest thing I've ever had to sister. She has an amazing sense of humor, is fun loving and outgoing yet incredibly grounded and is an all around good person. She is the God Mother to my first born, and after a great weekend visit, has been pronounced an honorary aunt to my kids. Carrie has always been there for me, even when she's been far away.

I promise to post better pictures soon, Car (she's going to kill me for this one...5 years ago, girls weekend cruise, after several cocktails). I had to get a birthday wish out quick during a break at work, I'm sure she'll understand, this is all I could come up with. Have a great birthday! Love you!!!
Is that a napkin on your head Carrie...or perhaps your birthday party hat?!?!

me and t

2009-07-17T21:53:00.002-05:00

If you don't already know Tara personally, you've certainly read about her here. She is one of my best friends. She comes to my house and cooks, cleans, plays with my kids, puts them to bed and reads them stories. She snowboards, loves to fish, makes jewelry, and has become a self-taught photographer, learning more with her camera in a matter of months than I have in years. She's the type of person who can do anything she sets her mind to, and at times I'm completely jealous of that. She's ambitious, fun loving, energetic and outgoing. She kicks butt and cribbage but sucks at scrabble. She'll finish off a bottle of wine with me any day of the week, no questions asked.

So why am I posting all of this? It's not Tara's birthday, we haven't done anything significant together lately. In fact, we've seen very little of each other, and most of the time I miss her like crazy. But Tara has been on my mind. She is going through some tough times these days. She's experiencing a lot of difficult change. I have a hard time showing how much I really support her, because frankly I don't do well with change at all. At times I feel like the big sister, shaking my head a little while she jumps in with both feet to find out if she will sink or swim (which I truly admire that she can do by the way). And most of the time, she does swim.

XOXO my good friend, keep swimming!

happy birthday carla!!!

2009-07-15T21:28:00.010-05:00

A bit belated, but I know she'll forgive me. Our friend Julie and Carla's mom put together quite the fiesta in Carla's honor this past Saturday night. The food was outstanding, and, no worries, Carla didn't let any of the tequila slush go to waste (thank goodness for straws or this could have gotten ugly). Carla is a truly beautiful person inside and out, and I feel so lucky to have her in my life. I had an awesome time and felt right at home in her circle of crazy (and I mean that in the nicest way) friends and family. Cheers C, see ya soon (like Friday, when I drop off my kids!)

Julie...salsa dancing???

grandma's weekend

2009-07-09T19:00:00.003-05:00

A couple weekends ago Joe's cousin Jennifer and her friend Stefanie stayed with us for Grandma's Marathon. The silly girls ran the whole thing on the one day of the summer that temps reached 90! Stef's blisters were ridiculous, but she never complained. And get this, they offered to just take our kids for a drive to the beach and out for ice cream after they ran 26 miles! Needless to say, the kids adored the girls (even before the ice cream). That night (yes, after the 90 degree day that they ran 26 miles, took our kids to the beach and out for ice cream) we took out the hot air balloon. I was doubtful that with such little manpower (it was just Joe and us girls) we'd be able to manage the balloon, but it went up without a problem. It turned out to be a gorgeous night for ballooning. Apparently I was having too much fun to take any pictures. Thankfully Jen pulled through and sent me some of hers. Can't wait to see you guys again!!!

Ava & Jen with their medals (Ava's is her ski medal...)

karate kid

2009-07-08T17:30:00.002-05:00

In May Gabe started Karate. It has been really great for him. He's learned some core skills with a big influence on self-discipline and respect. We love the instructors. They have high expectations of the kids, but a the same time are fun and encouraging. Gabe got his yellow belt about a month ago. Way to go, Gabe!

flower children

2009-07-08T16:09:00.002-05:00

Tell me you don't want to be 5 years old in the summer time again...

on 2 wheels

2009-07-01T20:59:00.003-05:00

Ava learned how to ride her bike without training wheels, two summers ago. She promptly threw a fit and refused to ride without training wheels the entire last summer. We've finally got her back on two wheels again. Every time she gets ready to go she repeats her "I can do it, I can do it, I can do it" mantra. I think she's on to something.

Gabe has been extremely encouraging throughout the bike riding lessons. He tries to give her tips and helps her get started. Most of the time she's too stubborn to appreciate it and ends up yelling at him "I don't need your help, Gabe!"

Oh well, his heart is in the right place. And that's just one of the things we love about Gabe.

catching up

2009-06-30T21:48:00.008-05:00

I've been really bad about keeping current on posts. This cold, gloomy evening seems like a good time to get a start on catching up.

My niece Mariella was born. Tara and I went for the day to meet her. What a sweet baby. I got to catch up with Sophia too...looks like her dad is teaching her about beer at an early age.

I spent an awesome weekend with my girls! We all went to Carrie's. My first Kentucky Derby party! As always, we picked up right where we left off the last time. We had so much fun. Thanks, Car!

Ava hosted her first sleepover. Kasey and Ava slept in a tent (in Ava's room), played dress up, stayed up late giggling and were total goofballs the entire time. It is really frightening how much these two are like sisters. They are hugging one minute and not speaking the next. Many memories being made here.

Joe and Gabe went to Detroit for the Red Bull Air Races. They had an awesome time! It was a long trip, but Gabe was a trooper. I'm told that the races were fabulous.

Meanwhile, Ava and I headed to my parent's. It's always so relaxing, at least for me, at home. I enjoyed the downtime.

We moved a lot of dirt to plant new grass. Not really that exciting, but Ava's attire is quite hilarious. She has an outfit for all occasions. She's a free spirit, what can I say. Maybe it's good we don't have close neighbors...

happy campers

2009-06-22T15:45:00.010-05:00

Carla sent me an email today with the subject line 'happy campers' and included the pictures below. Ava and Kasey are having a fun summer so far, thanks in large part to Carla. Someday we'll be pulling these out for the girl's grad party. Great memories! Thanks for sharing, C!

Pre-school graduation

Girls dressed up for the garage sale...they are fancy!

Post performance, Ava's first play, Abiyoyo

Ava's first day camp experience

postless month

2009-05-04T21:50:00.000-05:00

I went an entire month without posting a thing to my blog, and it wasn't even that difficult. I found watching Grey's Anatomy, baking cookies and attempting to get through the backlog of magazines to be more enjoyable ways to spend my evenings. I'm sure it will take me a month to catch up, if not longer. Or maybe I never really will...it is getting nicer outside. Who really has time for blogging??? Here's a brief start to catching up.

The tooth fairy made one visit...

and another

We went on vacation to Orlando. My camera spent more time in the condo than I did this vacation. Being able to actually finish a book in a week was much more satisfying at the time.

Gabe enjoyed kicking back and site seeing with Joe

Ava liked swimming and watching the dolphins

Gabe made his First Communion (doesn't Father Tom kind of remind you of Burl Ives? You should hear him sing!)

Grandma Lillian was extra proud.

A preview to May, I joined my college girls in Southern WI for a fabulous weekend. My newest niece was born on the 2nd. Welcome Mariella Catherine! Happy Birthday to my husband on the 3rd. Hopefully pictures to follow, but right now I need to call it a night.

growing up

2009-03-23T11:25:00.000-05:00

Every milestone Gabe hits is something new and exciting, yeah, he's growing up! Second child, not so much. I know I'm not having any more babies, so I seem to be hanging on to every baby thing about her for as long as I can. I know this is probably not a good thing, but I can't help it.

My kids lose their teeth early. Ava lost her two bottom front teeth last year. Not terribly traumatic, you hardly notice and those come back in quickly with two new kind of little teeth. Her top front tooth has been loose for a while. I keep telling her "don't wiggle it" I'm not ready for you to get rid of your baby teeth yet. It finally came out with an apple over the weekend. Now she has the gaping hole soon to be replaced by the big, awkward, too big for her mouth tooth. Uggh! But, she's pretty darn proud of that big hole in the front of her mouth right now. Don't get me wrong, I'm happy she's growing up, but it's kind of bittersweet.

Over the weekend we went to our friend's for dinner. We've known Laura and Kevin since our pre-kid days. We met while running our dogs in hunt tests. Laura was kind enough to snap a picture and send it my way. Looking at how these 4 have grown makes my heart sink a little. What happened to our babies?

Ava, Gabby, Gabe & Bianca

wine country

2009-03-14T08:19:00.000-05:00

I just returned from an awesome trip! A true girls weekend. Tara and I met in Sacramento and had the time of our lives. We toured wine country, met some awesome people, drank delicious wine and ate wonderful food. In four days we hit 26 wineries! We did zero shopping, which is unheard of. We ate 5 course meals, sipped champagne, saw the giant redwoods and stayed in a cabin in the mountains overlooking a beautiful valley. We brought two cases of wine home and have one more on the way. We spoiled ourselves silly and loved every minute of it. A HUGE thanks to my hubby. He more than handled the craziness while I was away and had no qualms about all the cash I spent. The pictures I took barley captured the beauty that was every place we turned around, but you get the idea. Cheers T! I had a blast!!!

first stop on Wine Road

So happy to be at her favorite stop...Robert Sinskey

gnarly

our view from the front porch...thanks Doug!

crabby faces

2009-03-03T22:35:00.001-06:00

Madeline was over for a play date the other day. Sometimes I think her and Ava could pass for sisters, look at those curls. I hadn't had my camera out for a long time, so this seemed like a good opportunity to pick it up. Gabe and Maddie decided to do crabby faces, easily my favorite!

i am lucky

2009-02-19T16:50:00.002-06:00

I just received a call from a good friend who told me he and his wife both lost their jobs a few weeks ago. They are working to figure out what the next steps are, living day to day. He is such a genuinely good person and his attitude is so incredibly positive. I don't wonder for a second why he's my friend.

I am lucky to have a good job in this unstable economy, to have healthy, happy kids, a great family, a supportive husband and to have such great friends like him to remind me to enjoy the little things and take it one day at a time.

Best of luck to my friend...my thoughts are with you during what must be an incredibly difficult time.

what's been going on

2009-02-15T12:10:00.001-06:00

Here' s what we've been up to!

Skiing! We all love to ski. All of us downhill ski. Gabe is in his 3rd year and Ava her 2nd. I still pause for a moment when I watch them go up the lift on their own...wow they've grown up. They really are great little skiers. We are lucky to have such an awesome program here for them to learn and so many ski hills close by. They've both completed two races. Ava took 3rd place on the last one. I think their favorite part of ski races is the hot dog lunch and hanging out with their friends. They're creating great memories.

Ava getting mentally prepped for the big race

Only about 3 ski lift mishaps this year

Ava and her classmate, Elena, having fun at lunch after they took 2nd and 3rd in their race

Gabe has a hard time getting excited for 7th place...it was a close race, Gabe!

The kids and I also partake in cross country skiing. They are really starting to get the hang of it. Joe grooms a half mile loop on our property, and I coax them out every now and then. Ava took her first trek to the Korkki Nordic with me a couple weeks ago. I fully intended to just do the 1K loop, but it was a gorgeous day...30+ degrees and sunny ( I should have had my camera!). I figured why not do 2, she's tough. Well, I somehow missed the 2K cutoff and we went 4. She totally stuck it out and was a trooper. She proudly announces to anyone who may care that she's skied the 4K at Korkki.

Super Bowl! We hung out at the Yesberger's for some great eats and good company on Super Bowl. I'm not a huge football fan, but it was fun to get together. The kids and guys did some pre-game snowmobiling. It was good to see everyone.

Sophia! We trekked to my brother's to give my mom and dad a hand with the kids while Trevor and Cathy were on vacation. I love all my nieces and nephews, but Sophia has a little piece of my heart right now. Even though I got the nastiest diapers of the weekend, I love spending time with her. I enjoy bath time and nap time and all her little particular ways of doing things. It was good to spend time with my sweet girl.

Say CHEESE!

Ava and Grandpa

Grandma and Ava

CCP Play! Ava's pre-school program was last weekend. She was Mary, in Mary Had a Little Lamb. She took center stage and patted lamb Zack's head, just as instructed. Future actress...? We all know she's got the drama part down.

The best dresses are the ones that twirl!

Mary and her little lamb

We got a lot of rain here last week. The snow got pretty crappy and now temperatures are hovering in the 10 degree range. It's hard to get motivated when winter sports are pulled out from under you. We'll use this time to try to catch up on the things we let go while playing the last month, and hopefully we don't kill each other with this shack happieness in the meantime.

Even on his bad hair days, Gabe gets my vote for most photogenic

just no time

2009-01-23T11:50:00.001-06:00

Have you ever had one of those days or weeks where there is just no time??? I am having that week right now! So I'll take 5 minutes of my lunch just to say, I mean to blog and post pictures from the kids' ski race just like I mean to finish the taxes, pay the bills, do laundry and help Gabe correctly make a regatta boat for Cub Scouts, but there is just no time. I want to have game night, play the Wii with the kids, go skiing, clean my closet, take some pictures, finish my book, but I cannot find the time. When would I possibly plan a vacation, paint the hallway, re-paint the stairway, frame and hang pictures? I haven't got the time! I'd really like to start thinking about adding on to our house, have a girls retreat at our house (that means cleaining - no time for that), go visit my college friends, but I feel like there is no time. Mind you, I have no idea where all the time is going. Really, I think I may be just too lazy after work at 7:00 when dinner is done and and the kitchen is cleaned up. Hip hip hooray for longer days! They cannot come soon enough. I'll get back to you few faithful readers, as soon as I find the time...

so long '08

2009-01-05T16:47:00.001-06:00

Whew! The holidays are already here and gone. For the first time ever I took a substantial amount of time off around the holidays to do nothing in particular except enjoy myself and hang out with my kids. Mission accomplished! My time off with them to just do whatever was wonderful. When I tucked Gabe in last night he told me he was sure they'd talk about in school what they did over break. We started listing stuff, and wow, we had fun!

visits to and from grandparents
holiday get togethers with friends (with and without kids)
cross country skiing on my sweet backyard trail (Ava's on skis and loving it!)
mommy skiing on real trails
downhill skiing
downhill ski racing (just the kids)
many visits with aunts, uncles and cousins
snowmobiling
a new snowmobile (yes, I caved)
refined wii skills (fishing anyone? I am a silver medalist now)
SORRY tournaments
sleep in! (Yes, I'm human again!)
reading chapter books ("just one more chapter...!")
movies, movies, movies!

We had a great time on New Years Eve at Julie & Dave's, however I didn't commit to a resolution. Being the best me, or living your best life as Oprah would say (yes, I had a little TV watching time too) seems to be the one that stuck. After reading Kim's blog, I've decided that I'm stealing this line from her: When something seems stressful, ask yourself if it will matter in twenty years, five years, one year or even a week.

Ah hah! Now we are on to something. Very smart, Kim. That goes well with my recently adopted mantra of "not helpful, not helpful, not helpful" when I'm having thoughts strangling someone if I have to wipe one more glob of toothpaste off the counter or pee off the toilet seat. Just focus on Gabe's big brown, long lashed eyes and Ava's sweet little face and remember that they won't let you plant kisses on them forever. They are not always going to tell you that you are the best mommy in the whole wide world. Someday they will ignore you rather than run to you with open arms when you enter a room. My 2009 resolution is to do my best to be the best me I can, to remember when I'm ready to rant that it's usually not helpful and to think how will this matter twenty years from now, or even next week.

Happy 2009 everyone! And what's a post without a picture or two? Here's what I dug up from '08.

Ava's first play date. Nice moves Chloe!

What would spring break be without tattoos?

Getting ready to zip through the jungle in Belize

Gabe's mini-birthday party at the campground

Ava's first soccer game - thumbs up!

Now that's a lot of grandkids!

My girls getting ready for the spa - open your eyes Car, we haven't even gotten to the wine yet!

Grandma and Grandpa with my sweet girl, Sophia

Seriously, the best 2008 picture of T&C? Getting a good pic of you 2 and of me and my pal is on my '09 list for sure!

Let's not forget the wine tasting. 'Nice Rack' stickers complements of Lee

Celebrating 10 years of wedded bliss in Belize.
Here's to a fabulous year, Joe (even though you don't read my blog) and many more happy memories...love you!

piccoli mostri

2009-01-05T11:39:00.000-06:00

Oh yeah, right, like I really speak Italian. I wish I did! Piccoli mostri I am told translates to little monsters and is the name of the blog of one of my newest friends, Carla. Somehow between hosting parties, going to school, student teaching and managing the lives of 3 active kids, Carla has found time at the end of this holiday season to start a blog. Get this, her resolution this year was to follow my blog more religiously...now I think that is funny!

Carla's daughter goes to school with Ava. She and I met through the girls. I'm happy to say we've become fast friends. She's fun loving, witty, creative and never quits smiling. I was lucky to get into her circle of friends since she informed me early on that she has a lot of friends and is only accepting fun seekers; no fun suckers! I can't wait to read about all your adventures, Carla!

wherever did you find such a sweet hat...?!

the wee's love the wii!

2008-12-27T11:06:00.000-06:00

Santa was good to us this year...we left him cookies and our wishes for the Wii and low and behold there was one under the tree this year.

In less than 2 days, Gabe has taken Pro status at bowling. He reminds us regularly that he's the only one in the family that's a pro.

Ava can kick anyone's butt in boxing though. She runs in place as fast as she's punching. She had multiple knock outs on Christmas night. She played until her stomach hurt and her cheeks were bright red.

I am not a video gamer, and I am not coordinated at all. I've found I can barely break 100 at bowling, can't catch a fish in fishing, hit a ball in base ball...I was nowhere near as good as Ava in boxing, but it did get my heart rate up. Tennis seems to be my game so far, but I'm far from an expert. Here's me attempting to box (note the sweet headband since I never got around to showering...nice!).

Joe is coordinated. He can't beat Gabe at bowling, but is quite the shooter. He also kicks butt on cow racing, and he'll out fish any of us. I think it may be the hat...

Wii aside, we had a wonderful Christmas! We attended a lovely Holiday party on Tuesday night at my friend Carla's. I've been waiting for over 10 years to re-gift this sweet white elephant and finally got my chance. Who doesn't need pink satin pillow shams? Needless to say, it was a hit.

My parents arrived on Christmas Eve. We visited and ate...then headed to Silver Bay for dinner with Joe's family. The kids went sledding until they were absolutely frozen. Fun!

Christmas day was actually relaxing (ha! my mom cooked, lucky me!!!) The kids were really good and patient waiting for the Wii to be setup. I got out to cross-country ski with my friend Robin. A 45 min ski and Blue Moon later, life was good. Dinner was fabulous followed by a visit from Tara and Charlie and more Wii action.

Now we're getting ready for down hill lessons for the kids today. Mom and Dad are heading home. It's been a nice wrap up to 2008. Thanks for a wonderful Christmas everyone and Happy New Year!

birthday wishes

2008-12-24T22:46:00.000-06:00

It's Christmas Eve, almost 11:00 and I'm dog ass dead tired...we've had back to back holiday get- togethers, and you just know that my kids will be up at 5:30 AM tomorrow. Regardless, I couldn't possibly call it a night without wishing my very dear friend Amy a happy birthday. Amy, I'd like to say the card is in the mail, but you know you typically get screwed having your birthday on Christmas. I'll be picking out an extra special one, and you'll get it on a surprise date yet to be determined.

I met Amy at UWEC many moons ago. She lived one floor below us in the dorms when we met and it wasn't long before she became one of our roommates. Many fun times, some that I remember, others not so much, that I've had with the greatest story teller in the world. Love you dear, have a wonderful birthday! Cheers!!!

All my really "good" pictures of Amy are the old fashion kind...too bad I'm too tired to scan them in. I was thinking the one where she had road rash on her face after a nasty fall during Eelpout Fest in Walker...

tagged

2008-12-24T22:31:00.000-06:00

A few days ago my friend Gina tagged me...the game is to take the sixth folder from the pictures file on your computer and pull up the sixth picture and post it. Of course the 6th folder only had 5 pictures in it...why do I even have that folder? So here's a picture from folder number 7. Appropriately one from Christmas, 2005. This was taken at Bentleyville which was a wonderful tour of lights setup by a local family on their property. Literally, there are over a million Christmas lights not to mention hot chocolate, s'mores and Santa. It was really fun and I kinda forgot about it. Thanks for tagging me, Gina.

If you look closely you'll see that Ava is wearing her sweet running shoes and neither have snow pants...nice job, mom. I hope it was a warm December in 2005.

I tag Amy and Katie if you want to play!

o'christmas tree

2008-12-14T21:45:00.001-06:00

If you haven't had the pleasure of seeing one of our Christmas trees, you're in for a treat when I get around to taking a picture of this one. When we moved into this house 11 years ago, Joe & I started a tradition of cutting our own tree, typically on our property. I've been putting off the tree hunt this year because truthfully, I'm a little tired of the Charlie Brown look. I want the full, perfect, beautiful tree, but who am I to break a self-imposed tradition? So, Saturday afternoon the 4, yes 4, of us jumped on the (1) snowmobile and trekked into the woods. We stopped on the trail and hiked in. Joe commented on his love/hate of this process. Love being out in the woods in the winter, hate trying to find a decent tree. We walked for a good half an hour. Well walked, and waited for Ava to catch up. She can't resist eating snow and it really slows her down. Nothing. Back to the trail. I spied a little twig of a tree, maybe six feet high, but several branches (a plus). How about it? Joe says sure, Ava says it's cute, Gabe says no way. OK, we'll ride up the trail a little further and see what we see. Joe and Gabe went to get the sled. Ava and I started up the trail. I asked her again about the twig tree and got the same it's cute response. Let's cut it I said. Mind you the cutting of the tree is typically a big picture taking production with all gathered round while Joe crawls under the thing. Girl Power! Ava and I sawed the twig tree down and started dragging it back down the trail toward the boys. They laughed (well, Gabe cried because it was so ugly). Four+ tree on snowmobile and once again it's a Charlie Brown Christmas.

We decorated the thing tonight. As Joe predicted, it did fall down. The headless angel is sitting on the counter now waiting for some good glue or her replacement. I guess life's never dull in the backwoods.

fancy nancy

2008-12-09T15:00:00.000-06:00

If you are not already familiar, there is a series of books by Jane O'Connor based on a character named Fancy Nancy. Ava has tendencies that are so much like Nancy, that I couldn't help but persuade her just a bit to be Fancy Nancy for Character Day at school today. She chose 'Bonjour, Butterfly' as her inspiration. She picked out most everything herself and came up with a stunning outfit...picture below is minus the wings - she did find blue ones - and extremely poor lighting, but you get the idea. It's hard for me to come to terms with the fact that my baby is no longer a baby or even a toddler anymore. Watching her grow is truly bittersweet. I know it won't be long and she'll too cool to be dressing fancy and silly. For now, I am really enjoying this time of mis-matched fanciness and her ability to pull it off.

c is for cookie!

2008-11-29T15:05:00.001-06:00

I really love making cookies this time of year. The kids and I made chai tea shortbread cookies today. A new recipe, and pretty good I'd say based on the 6 I've had so far today. I was pleasantly surprised at how really helpful the kids were. Typically cookie making is a drawn out, we're never going to get this done, kind of project. But this year, Gabe read the recipe while Ava attempted to find the ingredients...she took out everything she thought should go in cookies (vanilla, baking soda, sprinkles), then when I told her no, we're looking for pumpkin pie spice, I got this look:

Ah, but we're oh so happy when we find the right thing (rabbit on the bottle was a very helpful clue)

Now we're off to the mall, Christmas lists in hand. The kids brainstormed all morning about what they really, really wanted. We'll see how we do. Just the 4 of us, dinner out on a slightly snowy evening and an attempt to make a dent in the shopping...I think it should be pretty fun even if we don't accomplish a lot.

'tis the season

2008-11-24T21:15:00.000-06:00

I've been thinking about getting ready for Christmas. It really hasn't gone much beyond "thinking" because I've been too busy cleaning up other people's garbage (see previous post) to actually do any doing. We're going to Joe's brother's for Thanksgiving. Thank goodness for small favors. No need to clean the house quite yet. Maybe somebody out there can help me with a couple major questions to kick off the dreaded season?

1) Any good Christmas card making websites? I have the picture. I was hoping to find a cool website to create the card, but haven't had time to look around (maybe I should do that instead of blogging...) I can go the old slim line route as a last ditch effort of course, but I was hoping for something unique. Anyone?
2) What should I get my kids? I know, I should know better than anyone else what to get them, but they have so much. I think I'm really starting to fear clutter (again, see previous post). We're toying with the Wii idea. I haven't even started to investigate though, and I truly am clueless. What is the bare minimum I need to get to avoid a war between 2 kids on Christmas morning? Can I even get one still and where? Will my 5 year old girl enjoy it? Or would Santa be really ripping her off this year?

I'm sure I have more questions, but my brain is ready to shutdown. I found a few pictures from previous years Christmas cards that I thought worth sharing. My how they have grown. Don't ask me what happened to 2004 though?

2003 - look at that fat and crabby face (no, this wasn't our Christ mas card)

2003

2005

2006

2007

please de-clutter

2008-11-22T21:38:00.000-06:00

I spent the better part of the day sifting through garbage. And not my garbage. Somehow Joe scored himself a job cleaning out a house that is no longer inhabited. The previous occupant is now in a nursing home, and the house has been empty for over five years. I have never seen anything quite so sad. I have never walked from room to room on piles of trash. I have never opened bag after bag of brand new clothes and shoes with the original receipt still intact. I have never seen so many books unopened, notebooks untouched, nor shoes unworn. As I helped haul out bag after bag of garbage, filling dumpster after dumpster, I couldn't help but think how lucky I am that my whole life will never be thrown in the trash. We are strangers to this woman, rummaging through, shoveling out her garbage, her life. She has to pay someone to clean out what she's accumulated her entire life because she either has nobody, or the somebody she has doesn't want deal with this kind of mess. So sad...

Not a very exciting post. I guess I needed a way to process this crazy day. Joe tossed a book to me this morning that he found in the pile, "How to De-clutter Your Life". Guess she never got around to reading that one...

baby boy!

2008-11-13T20:44:00.000-06:00

My friend Gina just had a baby boy tonight! I know he was 7 lbs 12 oz and that's about it. I'm so happy for you Gina, good job!!! Congrats you guys, can't wait to meet him (I hope he likes me...)

is anybody out there?

2008-11-11T19:00:00.000-06:00

I admit to what my husband reminds me on a regular basis, I have no patience. I want to instantly be good at everything I attempt. So as I spend my somewhat limited free time adding posts to my blog, I can't help but wonder (average 0 comments per post, average 21 seconds per visit) am I just talking to myself? I would expect to have hundreds of regular readers and thousands of comments on each of my posts by now. I started this way back in September and, after all, I'm wildly entertaining, and why would you not want to read about my daily life and see dozens of pictures of my kids, comment on each post and include a link to my blog on your blog so people from all over the world will come read about my life...???

Ok, that was really ridiculous. Seriously, just like most everyone else, I do this to keep my friends and family up to date and let them catch a glimpse of what's going on in our crazy little world. It makes sense to me since they can't all be here with me where I feel they belong. For those of my friends and family that actually access the internet, it has worked out well. But, sigh, there are many that sadly do not, leaving me here talking to myself.

Like every problem in the world, this can be Googled. I found that it is suggested you gain loyal readers by having contests, starting lists, writing witty, opinionated posts and calling for comments with inquisitive questions, or by adding value to your post with links to other cool stuff.

Here you go. Value added, TA DA!!! Some kind of cool stuff I came across, and despite potentially decreasing my odds of winning, I will share with you - createdbymom.com (some really cute stuff and a great concept) by just adding a comment to her blog (and to your blog), you could win one of these sweet handmade pendants...there were only about 10 comments when I visited, so that's a pretty good chance of winning. Drawing's on Saturday, check it out!
I'm sure my friend Carla, who is a skilled stained glass artist, is dying to make me a cute little star like this. But I could never ask her to stop her late night studying, so I'll try to win one of my very own, you can too, go here and add a comment :)

Sorry, Mom, no new pix of the grand kids in this post. But for the rest of you, how's that for value added? Finding giveaways just may be my new obsession! I love free stuff, who doesn't? You never know when I may add tips, tricks, or other interesting, potentially useful information to my blog. Come back soon!!!

more treats than tricks

2008-11-09T13:47:00.000-06:00

Ooops....got a little behind on the Happy Halloween post.

Once again we attended Ava's pres-school Halloween party/carnival. We were there for 2 hours and the kids loved every minute of it. In summary, controlled chaos. Kids of all ages, all in costume and many adults did partake also. Gabe got to work some of the games, so he was feeling pretty cool. Let me just say that Ava's teachers are crazy...Ms. Patty in particular. She began coming to school in costume about 2 weeks ago. A different costume each day. While Patty made a pretty cute chicken, hands down, the best costume goes to Ms. Renee. She was a baby on a grandma's back, and the picture doesn't even begin to do it justice, but I tried. Tell me that you don't want to wear this costume?! It is awesome! I nearly dropped to my knees laughing when I saw her.

Two hours and two thousand grams of sugar later, I took the kids trick or treating. The best part of the carnival was they were completely content after an hour of door to door and so was I. They were home and in bed relatively on time...yeah! Do you recognize Ava? Several people said no...who knew she could pull off anything besides a princess?!

weekend recap

2008-11-02T14:00:00.000-06:00

Thanks to my brother and his wife for a nice weekend. We celebrated my niece's second birthday and enjoyed our time catching up. The kids had a blast! How could they not when it was 70 degrees and sunny?! Made it hard to come back home. I hope everyone has recovered from the chocolate cake overdose...it was delicious! I'll go in reverse order and get back with the Halloween post once I have time to get through the pictures. Thanks again Trevor and Cathy!

Ava and Sophia

Sophia with Grandma and Grandpa

This dress is about the most adorable thing I've ever seen!

birthday wishes

2008-10-29T09:00:00.000-05:00

Happy birthday to my little brother! Crazy how the years have flown by, isn't it? Seems like just yesterday I was beating the crap out of you - HAHA.

Trevor is married and has a lovely little family, with one more on the way. He is a personal trainer and owns his own business . He keeps busy with all kinds of physical activity, not an ounce of fat on this boy...it's making me tired and reaching for the M&M's just thinking about it. Trevor works hard and plays hard. He has done well for himself. I am proud of you little bro, even if you are a pain in the butt sometimes! Have a great b-day! love you -h

Trevor doing one of he many things he does so well !

bad auntie

2008-10-27T21:41:00.000-05:00

Happy belated birthday to my sweet little niece, Sophia. She just turned 2, I thought today, yesterday. Hope your day was extra good little girl. Can't wait to see you!!!

uss freedom

2008-10-27T08:43:00.000-05:00

that's Gabe in the front row with his arms up in the air...nice

I desperately tried to discourage Gabe from joining Cub Scouts. Why? Because it requires a ton of parent involvement, which frankly I was not sure I could handle. I've come to accept my "bad mom" status when it comes to activities. Running every night and weekend is something we've tried to avoid with the "one activity" rule. With any luck, that activity will not put me in the concession stand or working a carnival booth. When Gabe said no to every other activity offered as a Cub Scout alternative, we sucked it up and committed ourselves to weekly pack/den meetings and an onslaught of activities on top of that. I begrudgingly signed up as "secretary" to avoid being chief popcorn sales girl, pine derby officiant and all star decorator at the plethora of awards banquets. You see, secretary gets you off the hook for all other volunteer duties. As it should be, since I've spent hours making spreadsheets and emailing people about dues and forms. That said, the "bad" part hasn't been that bad.

Now for the good. My little boy is really quite good at walking up to strangers doors and requesting a contribution to his pack by way of buying overpriced popcorn (note, he only got 3 "no thank you's"). He politely requested we stay in the car on delivery day, "I can handle it". When duty calls, aka there's a meeting, he proudly and quickly (which is impressive for Gabe) dons his uniform, "ready to go". Last night at 5:15 I got a voice mail message (I don't check my voice mail much) that if I could get Gabe into town by 6:00, in uniform, he could tour the USS Freedom The ship is not doing public tours while docked here, so what a great opportunity. He loved it! Especially when he got to announce to the entire ship, "Commander, please dial 3003". HA!

Moral of the story perhaps, don't knock it until you try it? More importantly, lessons learned... appreciate the little things and learn to laugh more and complain less. That can help make life oh so good :) Happy Monday!!!

fancy footwork

2008-10-25T21:27:00.000-05:00

Today Ava attended a b-day party for her friend, Kasey and Kasey's sister, Charlotte. I invited myself to stay and take pictures. Too many came out fuzzy :( I did manage to come up with a couple keepers. The party was at a local dance studio...so creative and so fun. I believe the girls had a rockin' birthday! Happy Birthday Kasey and Charlotte! Thanks for having us!!!

check out this sweet cake Carla made!

Kasey

Charlotte

Kasey and Ava...the drama queens...they are quite the pair

yes, her hair is real

party's over...36 tired feet tromp home...

cold weather recipe

2008-10-23T08:36:00.000-05:00

Amy asked me to forward her my recipe for chicken noodle soup , so why not blog it? Then I only have to type it once! It is delicious, if I do say so myself. I stole it off the back of a bag of noodles many years ago.

Chicken & Kluski Noodle Soup
(what is Kluski you ask...a generic Polish name for all kinds of dumplings without a filling...I learn something every day)

4 C cubed cooked chicken or turkey
1.5 C chopped celery
1.5 C chopped onion
3 T margarine or butter
12 C water
1.4 C diced carrots
.5 t pepper
3 - 4 T chicken - flavor instant bouillon
1 t dried basil or marjoram leaves
12 oz package of Creamette Kluski Egg Noodles (uncooked)*

In 6 quart Dutch oven or large kettle, over medium heat, cook celery and onion in butter until tender; add water, chicken, carrots, pepper, bouillon, and marjoram. Bring to a boil on medium-high heat; reduce heat to medium and cook covered 15 minutes. Add noodles: cook 15 minutes longer or until noodles are tender.

*Note - I do not use the Creamette brand, but a local brand, Alberto's, of noodles that comes in a clear bag with green and red writing. They are wonderful!

It's going to be a cold weekend! Make some soup and bundle up!

taking pictures

2008-10-18T14:40:00.001-05:00

I have been messing around with photography for about 8 years now. Joe bought me my first Nikon SLR (film) camera. I took some classes, got in the dark room, then got pregnant and set the thing down, reaching for the digital point and shoot instead. Since then I've upgraded to digital SLR and tried to refresh my knowledge of general concepts of photography, exposure, etc. I'm proud to say I'm back in the "M" mode on my camera. I so want to be good at taking pictures! It's not easy, but if you take enough pictures, you're bound to get one or two good ones. At least in theory.

Getting your shooting done in the right light is huge. If you wait until it's warm out and catch the noon sun, you are screwed. So I forced my kids to shower on a Saturday morning, change into clothes they didn't pick themselves (this is just asking for a meltdown), and trek out to the middle of a field across the road from us. Camera, lenses, tripod, blanket in hand out the door into the 45 degree morning we went. I was so disappointed when the golf cart (yes, we have a golf cart) wouldn't start...cold hands, runny noses, 2 hours and 200 shots later we were done. They were actually great sports. Taking pictures of your kids isn't always easy because you get frustrated with them a lot easier than any other subject. For example, "put the stick down, Gabe, put the stick down, PUT THE G#@D#@# STICK DOWN!" Yeah, it's super fun going out shooting with Mommy! Anyway, here's a sample of what I came up with.

The expressions just crack me up on this one. How did he know what her face looked like?

Here's what happens if you don't get the "good light". Nothing you can do to get rid of the tree shadows.

No passing zone

And check out all the pumpkins!

wow i'm old

2008-10-17T22:41:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I turned 37. Wow, that is frighteningly close to 40. My mom must feel really old! I did have a great day though, aside from working that is. I got an early happy birthday call (song included) from my friend Robin, followed by a special floral delivery (thanks Robin!!!). A beautiful bouquet from Tara and delicious lunch at Hacienda to boot (so much for my noon workout...please pass the chips and salsa!) Joe got me a new lens for my camera. I sort of "helped" him pick it out, and it conveniently arrived right on my birthday. Thanks babe! My kids made lovely cards and gave me extra hugs and kisses! Trevor caught me with a quick call before I headed out the door to dinner that Joe arranged (with maybe a little help from Tara?) with Tara and Charlie at the Scenic. Oh so yummy! Not to mention some sweet gifts from my mom (thank you!!!) and Tara (love everything!) Another year older and maybe a tad wiser? I would like to think so. I appreciate the little things more each day and try to not take them for granted. Great friends & family, good food & wine, some pretty flowers...those things make me happy. Thanks again everyone for making my day special.

family fun

2008-10-13T20:00:00.000-05:00

Joe's sister, Jolie, her husband, Roger, our nieces, Heidi and Haley and nephew, Roger Jr., stayed with us this weekend. Haley was on a mission to get her first deer of the season. The mission would have been more easily accomplished if you kept your eyes open Haley!

Hunting = shopping in my book. Luckily Jolie follows the same rules. We had a great day at the mall. Ava and Heidi were troopers and kept up the whole day. We even managed a quick stop at the park. Meanwhile Gabe and Roger Jr. rode dirt bikes until they could ride no more.

Thanks for coming guys!

Heidi and Ava posing by the river

another weekend...

2008-10-07T20:41:00.000-05:00

What a great weekend! Many of our friends and family spent the day on Saturday celebrating Miss Ava's birthday. We had a great time (mojito anyone?), and what a gorgeous day. Thank you everyone for coming, and extra thanks to all those who helped us pull off another party. My brother and his family along with my parents spent the entire weekend. It was great to catch up and kick back. If only weekends could be longer. Thanks for coming guys! Looking forward to seeing you all in November!

Ava had a fashion themed birthday party. Check out this sweet purse cake!

She got no less than 25 new dress up outfits for her birthday this year - yeah eBay! Anyone who has been to our house and seen Ava in action knows exactly what she is doing in this picture. She's looking at the fireplace and checking out her reflection . She's been doing it since she could stand, I swear. Looking good, Ava!

Don't forget the hat!!!

Last, but not least, my sweet niece Sophia. What a cutie pie!

my baby is turning 5

2008-10-03T08:08:00.001-05:00

Five years ago today I was on my way to work and called Joe to tell him that I was pretty sure the contractions I was having were real. I came into work and let my boss know "I think I'm in labor, but I've got an appointment at 9:00, so we'll see." Saw the doctor at 9. Yes, the contractions are real, dilated to a 2, "can I go back to work to finish a few things up?", NO. By around 3:30 (no, I don't remember the exact time, that happens with kid #2) little Miss Ava Catherine was born. Now I'm the proud mommy of an adorable, sweet, ambitious, fun-loving, dramatic little princess. I wonder on a regular basis what happened to my baby? Could she stay little just a little bit longer? She reminds me regularly though, "I'll always be your baby, Mom". I love you so much, sweet Ava. Have a wonderful Birthday! ~mommy

happy birthday Tara!

2008-09-24T07:00:00.000-05:00

Today my good friend Tara is thirty something... um... uh, I mean 26! Several of us surprised her at the Boat House for dinner. Enjoy your day Tara! (as much as you can at work that is) XOXOXO

together again

2008-09-23T21:40:00.001-05:00

This Friday I am meeting my college roommates for a long deserved girls weekend. We are gathering at Lezlie's house for a 2.5 day retreat, including dinner out and an afternoon visit to the spa. I cannot wait! It's been well over a year since the 4 of us have been together. I'm not sure how many years it's been since we've been together where none of us have been pregnant or breast feeding...look out world!!! I'll bring my camera with, but no guarantees on pictures. There's a lot of wine to be poured and stories to be told and few precious hours to get it all in! See you all Friday!!!

Me, Carrie, Lezlie and Amy at Lezlie's baby shower 7/2007.
That's as big as I've ever seen Lez! Her twins, now almost
a year old, are beautiful!!!

school daze

2008-09-20T13:07:00.000-05:00

The first day of school has come and gone, but I just started this whole blog thing, so why not start there. The Gabester is in 2nd grade now...wow! Where has the time gone??? Ava is working through her second year of preschool. She just missed the cutoff for kindergarten, but she's pretty happy being one of the big kids in her second year at CCP.

me...a blogger???

2008-09-17T12:32:00.000-05:00

Holy cow! I did it!!! After years of watching my tech savy friends blog and blog and blog, I finally came up with a name and took the leap! Yeah for me!!!

The name...I have two wee ones, G & A. While they are not so "wee" anymore, they will always be my babies and wee to me. I've always had a fascination with dragonflies. They are interesting to watch, cool to look at and, as far as bugs go, not annoying. Plus they eat mosquitoes - a bonus. Did you know in Japan they represent courage, strength and happiness? So there you have it. Posts that will be comprised mainly of stories of my "WeeDragonflies". Those fascinating, cool, amazing, strong, courageous, happy (albeit sometimes annoying...) little people that call me Mom.

I will do my best to be a faithful blogger. I will try not to bore you with my ramblings, yet get my point across and share the current events & pics from our funny little home. More to come...