Since we did not win the Mega Millions jackpot last night, it was business as usual today.
A neighbor took Carter out to breakfast so I could have slept in... If only I hadn't awakened at 6:30! Couldn't fall back to sleep so I was dragging a bit today. Got my chores done, went for a 3-mile run in the chilly gloom and then, after a shower, found my spot on the couch.
Carter and Jim were at the batting cage so I found myself flipping back and forth between two movies I hadn't seen in ages -- Pretty Woman and The Firm. Sure, I had lots of things I should have been doing, but it was a dreary last day of March (still a lamb, not a lion) and a good to day to lay low on the couch.
In fact, after those movies were done, hubby sat down to read The Hunger Games (I talked him into it) and I said, "I think I'll just lay on the couch and shut the TV off." I don't recall falling asleep but I must have because it was 90 minutes later when I looked at the clock and figured I better get up!
Honestly, I needed the nap so I would be rested and fired up for a date night. Sort of.
We went to a surprise 40th birthday party for a friend and he was surprised! Those don't always work but this time it did. Had a fun evening visiting ... and keeping an eye on the basketball games, of course.
After some recalculating, it appears I had better odds of winning the Mega Millions than I do of winning our NCAA pool at work. So we're pulling for Carter's bracket. He was in 3rd place going into the weekend, but he has Kansas beating Kentucky in the final. That could be huge for him. I know he stayed up to watch the game but somehow we gotta work this in to an April Fool's joke tomorrow.
We'll sleep on it and figure something out. Trust me.
Saturday, March 31, 2012
Friday, March 30, 2012
TGIF (Thank God It's Fun)
Since it was Carter's last day of Spring Break today, I opted to work at home so I'd be close by if he needed me, wanted to do anything or go anywhere. With me, that is.
That's not exactly how it worked out.
He went to a friend's house for the afternoon so I ended up, well, working. It was actually a pretty productive day, if I do say so myself. But I clocked out by 4:30 so I could make supper. Now don't get scared that I've lost my undomestic goddess title.... but I did bake salmon. An actual recipe! We aren't huge salmon fans here but it was fine. And it was fish on a Friday, so we accomplished that.
After supper, we realized none of us had anything going on. How unusual. And there were no basketball games on TV that had to be watched. So we made our own fun and turned it into a family game night.
First we played Trivial Pursuit, which is challenging even for us grownups. Carter was a good sport about it and we tried to help him. Daddy kicked butt. I don't know why he doesn't like games when he does so well. When he plays against me anyway.
After that we played 5-Second Rule, where you have to name 3 things in 5 seconds to earn a point. Some were easy like naming 3 vegetables or hotel chains. Some were tough (I couldn't name 3 mattress manufacturers) and some we just got a mind block. I couldn't think of 3 characters from SpongeBob of all things! It was fun, though. And I can say that since Jim and I tied for the win... and Carter was only a few points behind.
That wrapped up a few minutes ago since I was yawning and Carter thought he should probably try to get back on his "school" sleeping schedule. Fine with me. I need to get to bed and start Book #2 of the Hunger Games trilogy.
That's my kind of fun, too!
That's not exactly how it worked out.
He went to a friend's house for the afternoon so I ended up, well, working. It was actually a pretty productive day, if I do say so myself. But I clocked out by 4:30 so I could make supper. Now don't get scared that I've lost my undomestic goddess title.... but I did bake salmon. An actual recipe! We aren't huge salmon fans here but it was fine. And it was fish on a Friday, so we accomplished that.
After supper, we realized none of us had anything going on. How unusual. And there were no basketball games on TV that had to be watched. So we made our own fun and turned it into a family game night.
First we played Trivial Pursuit, which is challenging even for us grownups. Carter was a good sport about it and we tried to help him. Daddy kicked butt. I don't know why he doesn't like games when he does so well. When he plays against me anyway.
After that we played 5-Second Rule, where you have to name 3 things in 5 seconds to earn a point. Some were easy like naming 3 vegetables or hotel chains. Some were tough (I couldn't name 3 mattress manufacturers) and some we just got a mind block. I couldn't think of 3 characters from SpongeBob of all things! It was fun, though. And I can say that since Jim and I tied for the win... and Carter was only a few points behind.
That wrapped up a few minutes ago since I was yawning and Carter thought he should probably try to get back on his "school" sleeping schedule. Fine with me. I need to get to bed and start Book #2 of the Hunger Games trilogy.
That's my kind of fun, too!
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Bore-reefly
Some Thursday briefs:
Bored Room: My hubby has often told the boys when they say, "I'm bored," that "Only boring people get bored." So Carter, who hasn't done much of anything on break, claims he's bored. While we've given him all sorts of suggestions for projects -- none too fun -- he hasn't spent time starting any of them. So it's not like he lacks things to do. He lacks fun things to do. Unfortunately, plans to spend the night and tomorrow at a friend's fell through so he may be stuck with me for the day. I do have to get some real work done so I will not have time to be bored. I'll make sure he isn't either.
Butter Braids: This isn't my fundraiser or Carter's, but some friends of ours are doing a Butter Braid fundraiser for the daycare in Iola. I know we're getting some, but am opening it up to anyone who may want to order with us. No pressure, but you know how good they are! They are $11 each and same flavors Carter had in the fall: Blueberry and cream cheese, cream cheese, cherry, raspberry, cinnamon, caramel rolls, apple, and strawberry and cream cheese. Let me know by next Thursday. Checks should be written to "Young Impressions Inc."
Hippy Chick: My hip has improved enough that I am almost on an every-other-day running schedule. Of course, by running I mean I am still doing a running and walking combo. But I am gradually running more than walking. As I pointed out on my Facebook status today, it is already doing wonders for me. I don't mean to brag but I can already fit into the earrings I wore in high school.
C'mon, humor me. It's almost Friday!
Bored Room: My hubby has often told the boys when they say, "I'm bored," that "Only boring people get bored." So Carter, who hasn't done much of anything on break, claims he's bored. While we've given him all sorts of suggestions for projects -- none too fun -- he hasn't spent time starting any of them. So it's not like he lacks things to do. He lacks fun things to do. Unfortunately, plans to spend the night and tomorrow at a friend's fell through so he may be stuck with me for the day. I do have to get some real work done so I will not have time to be bored. I'll make sure he isn't either.
Butter Braids: This isn't my fundraiser or Carter's, but some friends of ours are doing a Butter Braid fundraiser for the daycare in Iola. I know we're getting some, but am opening it up to anyone who may want to order with us. No pressure, but you know how good they are! They are $11 each and same flavors Carter had in the fall: Blueberry and cream cheese, cream cheese, cherry, raspberry, cinnamon, caramel rolls, apple, and strawberry and cream cheese. Let me know by next Thursday. Checks should be written to "Young Impressions Inc."
Hippy Chick: My hip has improved enough that I am almost on an every-other-day running schedule. Of course, by running I mean I am still doing a running and walking combo. But I am gradually running more than walking. As I pointed out on my Facebook status today, it is already doing wonders for me. I don't mean to brag but I can already fit into the earrings I wore in high school.
C'mon, humor me. It's almost Friday!
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Hunger Pains
There's one thing that spreads even quicker than gossip -- and that's word of a good book. As a big reader, I love when people suggest great reads that I might not otherwise consider. Most times, I find myself enjoying the suggested book and, in turn, recommend it to someone else.
I don't always follow the hype of a book that's turned into a movie. Sometimes I'm prompted to read the book, but inevitably am disappointed in some aspect of the movie. My Sister's Keeper, for example, completely skipped the big shock value of the book when it had a different ending on the big screen. The movie The Help was quite true to the book, I'm told, so now I want to read it.
A few years ago, when the Twilight hype was overtaking all ages of readers I know, I resisted the temptation. I'm pretty sure vampires in any shape or form are not my thing. This past week, though, as I heard more and more and more about The Hunger Games, I wondered if maybe there could be something to this hype. Is this even my kind of book? Should I give it a try?
I finally fell victim to the pressure and bought the first book in the trilogy on Monday. It was a quick, easy and very interesting read. This morning, I was reading on the way to work and all through the day I wondered if there was a way I could sneak out to the car and keep reading. For the record, I didn't do that. But I wasted no time finishing it up tonight.
I can see how it can appeal to all ages. It's a unique story. The only thing I didn't like about it is that when I finished it, I didn't have book #2 in my possession. I have to get my hands on that! If the movie ends like the book, I can see how they will have a sequel on their hands. I mean they'll have to. No more hints or spoilers.
While I thought I was perhaps the last person in America to read it, I have 3 people on a waiting list to get my book #1 next... not including Carter, who started it once but didn't get the opportunity to finish. I'm wondering how in the world he could not finish it?? But I think he borrowed it from some girl and she needed it back. So he did what she asked.
Now that story never gets old.
I don't always follow the hype of a book that's turned into a movie. Sometimes I'm prompted to read the book, but inevitably am disappointed in some aspect of the movie. My Sister's Keeper, for example, completely skipped the big shock value of the book when it had a different ending on the big screen. The movie The Help was quite true to the book, I'm told, so now I want to read it.
A few years ago, when the Twilight hype was overtaking all ages of readers I know, I resisted the temptation. I'm pretty sure vampires in any shape or form are not my thing. This past week, though, as I heard more and more and more about The Hunger Games, I wondered if maybe there could be something to this hype. Is this even my kind of book? Should I give it a try?
I finally fell victim to the pressure and bought the first book in the trilogy on Monday. It was a quick, easy and very interesting read. This morning, I was reading on the way to work and all through the day I wondered if there was a way I could sneak out to the car and keep reading. For the record, I didn't do that. But I wasted no time finishing it up tonight.
I can see how it can appeal to all ages. It's a unique story. The only thing I didn't like about it is that when I finished it, I didn't have book #2 in my possession. I have to get my hands on that! If the movie ends like the book, I can see how they will have a sequel on their hands. I mean they'll have to. No more hints or spoilers.
While I thought I was perhaps the last person in America to read it, I have 3 people on a waiting list to get my book #1 next... not including Carter, who started it once but didn't get the opportunity to finish. I'm wondering how in the world he could not finish it?? But I think he borrowed it from some girl and she needed it back. So he did what she asked.
Now that story never gets old.
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Break Time
After all the summer-like weather we had, cool "spring" weather returned just in time for Carter's spring break. If it was me, I'd be disappointed. If you are couch-potato teenager, though, it really doesn't matter.
On his first day of break yesterday, he had to clean his room -- but that was mainly because he was having a friend over. Otherwise, he doesn't have many sources of motivation!
On the way home from work last night, we picked up his "summer friend" Harry from Amherst. Harry stayed overnight and spent the day with Carter at our house. Last night their agenda included playing video games -- breaking out the old school Nintendo 64 -- and watching a movie.
This morning they slept in until 10 (lucky!), had cinnamon rolls for breakfast then gave me a call. I asked Carter what they were doing for the day. He says, "Probably the same as yesterday." I give them credit. The weather was just nice enough that they went outside and shot hoops for a bit. So they weren't complete slugs, just mostly.
They did have a great time together and I am glad it worked out that they are both on break the same week.
Now Harry is back home and Carter will probably spend tomorrow plotting who to spend the rest of the week with... I remember when it used to be me! He hasn't once suggested, though, that Mom or Dad take a day off.
I guess he needs a break from us, too. And I'm OK with that.
Not really, I just said it to convince myself! But if the sun does come out and the temp climbs to 70-something, I might just take a break myself.
That will make one of us happy anyway.
On his first day of break yesterday, he had to clean his room -- but that was mainly because he was having a friend over. Otherwise, he doesn't have many sources of motivation!
On the way home from work last night, we picked up his "summer friend" Harry from Amherst. Harry stayed overnight and spent the day with Carter at our house. Last night their agenda included playing video games -- breaking out the old school Nintendo 64 -- and watching a movie.
This morning they slept in until 10 (lucky!), had cinnamon rolls for breakfast then gave me a call. I asked Carter what they were doing for the day. He says, "Probably the same as yesterday." I give them credit. The weather was just nice enough that they went outside and shot hoops for a bit. So they weren't complete slugs, just mostly.
They did have a great time together and I am glad it worked out that they are both on break the same week.
Now Harry is back home and Carter will probably spend tomorrow plotting who to spend the rest of the week with... I remember when it used to be me! He hasn't once suggested, though, that Mom or Dad take a day off.
I guess he needs a break from us, too. And I'm OK with that.
Not really, I just said it to convince myself! But if the sun does come out and the temp climbs to 70-something, I might just take a break myself.
That will make one of us happy anyway.
Monday, March 26, 2012
Blessings in Disguise
He replied, "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." ~ Matthew 17:20
I don't know anyone who hasn't read the famous Footsteps poem and identified with it at least to some extent. When life is good and things are going our way, we don't wonder where God is. In fact, we may not even think about Him. When times are troubling, though, we wonder -- sometimes with a big huff -- where he's been and where he is now.
That's just human nature.
Three months into the new year and I am still struggling with this anxiety business and wondering why this is happening to me. Me who has worked so hard to be healthy and stay healthy and active. Me who thought life was normal. And liked it.
I've had my share of pity parties, asking, "Why me?" I've asked God more than a few times to take this from me, but He's not taking it. At least not on MY time schedule. I need patience. I need faith -- larger than a mustard seed. I need to open my eyes and see the miracle that has transpired from this.
Yes, a miracle.
We often question why negative things happen to us. Of course, if it's a good thing, it happens because we deserve it. If it's bad, we wonder what we did wrong or why God is targeting us or testing us. More often than not, when time passes, we see something good came out of the bad. We realize that sometimes flippant saying "Everything happens for a reason" really is true.
This is how I know it...
In a nutshell, when I was in the ER and the doctor saw my age and suggested I was experiencing a "hot flash," I poo-pooed the idea because one, I am too young. (Not) And two, I thought it was a ridiculous notion that women had to quit driving when they reach menopause because they fear passing out. It did, however, prompt me to make a long overdue appointment with my ob/gyn, who I just call Dr. Fun. (Because it's not a fun visit).
By some miracle (there's that word again), I didn't have to wait 6 months to fit into his jam-packed schedule. He could see me that week. Long story short... abnormal pap leads to biopsy of 3 areas of cervix leads to "severe precancerous" results leads to not-fun procedure to remove those cells.
That was not an enjoyable experience. But if I hadn't been sick with all that lightheaded and dizzy crap and concerned about defending my non-menopausal honor, I wouldn't have had that sudden urgency to get back on schedule with Dr. Fun, and I might have waited months and months to see him. By then, it could have developed into that next stage which could only be one thing. A C word I don't like to type.
The Lord really does work in mysterious ways. Sure, I don't always like them. And I definitely don't have the patience to deal with them. But I can't lose faith over them either.
Easier said than done. But this is a good reminder I can't ignore.
I mean miracles don't happen every day!
Or do they?
I don't know anyone who hasn't read the famous Footsteps poem and identified with it at least to some extent. When life is good and things are going our way, we don't wonder where God is. In fact, we may not even think about Him. When times are troubling, though, we wonder -- sometimes with a big huff -- where he's been and where he is now.
That's just human nature.
Three months into the new year and I am still struggling with this anxiety business and wondering why this is happening to me. Me who has worked so hard to be healthy and stay healthy and active. Me who thought life was normal. And liked it.
I've had my share of pity parties, asking, "Why me?" I've asked God more than a few times to take this from me, but He's not taking it. At least not on MY time schedule. I need patience. I need faith -- larger than a mustard seed. I need to open my eyes and see the miracle that has transpired from this.
Yes, a miracle.
We often question why negative things happen to us. Of course, if it's a good thing, it happens because we deserve it. If it's bad, we wonder what we did wrong or why God is targeting us or testing us. More often than not, when time passes, we see something good came out of the bad. We realize that sometimes flippant saying "Everything happens for a reason" really is true.
This is how I know it...
In a nutshell, when I was in the ER and the doctor saw my age and suggested I was experiencing a "hot flash," I poo-pooed the idea because one, I am too young. (Not) And two, I thought it was a ridiculous notion that women had to quit driving when they reach menopause because they fear passing out. It did, however, prompt me to make a long overdue appointment with my ob/gyn, who I just call Dr. Fun. (Because it's not a fun visit).
By some miracle (there's that word again), I didn't have to wait 6 months to fit into his jam-packed schedule. He could see me that week. Long story short... abnormal pap leads to biopsy of 3 areas of cervix leads to "severe precancerous" results leads to not-fun procedure to remove those cells.
That was not an enjoyable experience. But if I hadn't been sick with all that lightheaded and dizzy crap and concerned about defending my non-menopausal honor, I wouldn't have had that sudden urgency to get back on schedule with Dr. Fun, and I might have waited months and months to see him. By then, it could have developed into that next stage which could only be one thing. A C word I don't like to type.
The Lord really does work in mysterious ways. Sure, I don't always like them. And I definitely don't have the patience to deal with them. But I can't lose faith over them either.
Easier said than done. But this is a good reminder I can't ignore.
I mean miracles don't happen every day!
Or do they?
Sunday, March 25, 2012
I Love the '80s
While I am pretty sure I harbor the most love for '80s music in my family -- you can't account for taste (theirs, that is) -- my mom can now say she loves the 80s, too!Even though we had the party yesterday, today is her official birthday. And she celebrated it much quieter. Dad took her out to dinner and I'm sure they enjoyed leftovers from the party for lunch! I know hubby and I are pondering 365 ways to use leftover ham! (Good thing we love it.)
We checked out of the hotel early and were back home in Rapids by 1 p.m. Carter and Daddy went to the batting cage and I hit the laundry room and did my other neglected chores. I finally downloaded pictures and realized I didn't take many at the party. Guess I was too busy gabbing.
Here are few that almost turned out...
We're always known as LeRoy and Marlys and the 8 R's. Trying to get all 10 of us looking at the same camera AND smiling shouldn't have been so challenging for a group of grownups. This is the best one of 7 "attempts" on my camera anyway.
The picture of Mom with her grandkids was not any better! This is the only one where you can almost see everyone's faces! Left to right, it's Zachary, Matthew is behind Carter, Anthony is behind Mom, Eric, Caryn, Travis, Beth, Ashley and David. Missing were Timothy and Tony. You see they are all officially taller than Grandma now... some more than others!
Took the opportunity to get a picture with my twin (who I think might still love the '80s, too!).
And my favorite -- me and the guys. I think I am the only one NOT standing on my tippy toes. I mean that has to be case, right? Right?!
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Party Pooped
I'm tired. But it's a good kind of tired.
You gotta know that it takes a lot of energy to not only put on a great birthday bash ... but be one of the charming 8 R's, entertaining the multitudes for several hours.
In a nutshell, it was a great party. Weather was perfect. Had a nice big crowd. Did not come close to running out of food. And I got to see several cousins I haven't seen in ages. My mom was queen for the day and she wore her title well!
For a 3-hour party, it seemed more like 12 hours. Technically, I left the hotel room 11 hours ago so I guess that's actually pretty close. Of course, we could have been in bed a few hours ago but decided to "wind down" a bit with Rayna and Paul at the Pour House down the street.
Feels good to be party pooped and know that everything went as planned. Certainly no regrets and definitely no more headaches.
Of course, I will be reminded all week of it as I munch on leftover ham sandwiches, cake and try to only eat one or two of those yummy mints per day.
You gotta know that it takes a lot of energy to not only put on a great birthday bash ... but be one of the charming 8 R's, entertaining the multitudes for several hours.
In a nutshell, it was a great party. Weather was perfect. Had a nice big crowd. Did not come close to running out of food. And I got to see several cousins I haven't seen in ages. My mom was queen for the day and she wore her title well!
For a 3-hour party, it seemed more like 12 hours. Technically, I left the hotel room 11 hours ago so I guess that's actually pretty close. Of course, we could have been in bed a few hours ago but decided to "wind down" a bit with Rayna and Paul at the Pour House down the street.
Feels good to be party pooped and know that everything went as planned. Certainly no regrets and definitely no more headaches.
Of course, I will be reminded all week of it as I munch on leftover ham sandwiches, cake and try to only eat one or two of those yummy mints per day.
Friday, March 23, 2012
Party Planners
I don't know how event planners do it, but I can understand why they need a whole staff to pull it off.
My 7 siblings and I have been planning an 80th birthday for our mom for a few months now. We are 8 non-event planners trying to pull off one single event. Seems like it would be easy enough. Everyone picks a task to do and we come together and get it done. Maybe in 24 hours, when it's all said and done, we can say it happened just like that.
Now, though, it seems like the hundreds of emails were not only building up excitement to the big day, they were building up stress, too.
Today was almost the culmination.
We hit the road and headed Up North this afternoon. By late afternoon, we'd all converged on the Cushing Community Center -- the site of tomorrow's birthday bash -- and tried to see if every detail had been attended to and tried to agree on how each should be executed. You've heard the phrase "too many cooks in the kitchen"... well, it can be tough to all agree on how this is going to be set up when really, we just want to do it how Mom wants... and hope she'll be happy with it.
Thanks to some very talented siblings, I think she will! The place looks great and we have enough food to feed a small army. Which could show up!
It's out of our hands now, so all we could do was get to the hotel in Siren, check in, go eat a very late dinner with my sister Rayna and brother-in-law Paul -- up from Texas -- and try to relax for a few minutes poolside.
Sleep should come pretty easy. And, thank god, this should be the last night I have some disturbing dream about running out of cake...
Let's party!
My 7 siblings and I have been planning an 80th birthday for our mom for a few months now. We are 8 non-event planners trying to pull off one single event. Seems like it would be easy enough. Everyone picks a task to do and we come together and get it done. Maybe in 24 hours, when it's all said and done, we can say it happened just like that.
Now, though, it seems like the hundreds of emails were not only building up excitement to the big day, they were building up stress, too.
Today was almost the culmination.
We hit the road and headed Up North this afternoon. By late afternoon, we'd all converged on the Cushing Community Center -- the site of tomorrow's birthday bash -- and tried to see if every detail had been attended to and tried to agree on how each should be executed. You've heard the phrase "too many cooks in the kitchen"... well, it can be tough to all agree on how this is going to be set up when really, we just want to do it how Mom wants... and hope she'll be happy with it.
Thanks to some very talented siblings, I think she will! The place looks great and we have enough food to feed a small army. Which could show up!
It's out of our hands now, so all we could do was get to the hotel in Siren, check in, go eat a very late dinner with my sister Rayna and brother-in-law Paul -- up from Texas -- and try to relax for a few minutes poolside.
Sleep should come pretty easy. And, thank god, this should be the last night I have some disturbing dream about running out of cake...
Let's party!
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Spring Breakers
Whoa, I am tired. I just finished work 3 minutes ago!
OK, I'll admit, I had a 5-hour break for supper, but still... uff da. I am so glad I have a 3-day weekend ahead of me -- even if it means lots of travel and some pre-party work before Mom's big shindig on Saturday. A thunderstorm cooled things off so it will be great sleeping weather and no, I repeat NO, alarms set in the house.
We are officially on Spring Break!
Well, Daddy and Mommy get one whole day off. Tomorrow. Carter gets tomorrow off. AND all next week. Lucky!
I asked if he has any homework and he said no, even the teachers said, "There's a reason it's called spring 'break'!" So they get a break from homework... except for reading and an extra-credit movie. Would have been a perfect year to go somewhere for vacation.
Oh, but we are. Up North, Wisconsin, here we come! A week ago we could have said we were going somewhere warm. Not so this weekend. But there shouldn't be any sightings of that white stuff.
I guess this is our winter "break." Hope it lasts longer than my spring one!
OK, I'll admit, I had a 5-hour break for supper, but still... uff da. I am so glad I have a 3-day weekend ahead of me -- even if it means lots of travel and some pre-party work before Mom's big shindig on Saturday. A thunderstorm cooled things off so it will be great sleeping weather and no, I repeat NO, alarms set in the house.
We are officially on Spring Break!
Well, Daddy and Mommy get one whole day off. Tomorrow. Carter gets tomorrow off. AND all next week. Lucky!
I asked if he has any homework and he said no, even the teachers said, "There's a reason it's called spring 'break'!" So they get a break from homework... except for reading and an extra-credit movie. Would have been a perfect year to go somewhere for vacation.
Oh, but we are. Up North, Wisconsin, here we come! A week ago we could have said we were going somewhere warm. Not so this weekend. But there shouldn't be any sightings of that white stuff.
I guess this is our winter "break." Hope it lasts longer than my spring one!
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Hump Day Happenings
I am multi-tasking to the max right now. While my ingredients for my jello salad cool, I am downloading picture files for work and trying to blog ... hoping all 3 turn out! Here are some Hump Day happenings...
Scenic Sunrise: Some days it's worth it to drag our butts out of bed before dawn when we are treated to a beautiful sunrise. Today the sun was a huge red ball. I tried to take a picture in the moving car and prayed for a red light in Plover so I could hold the camera steady, but we didn't get it. So my pictures are likely super blurry. It just happened that my friend Jean took this one of the same sunrise (of course) over the lake in Scandinavia -- probably right before we drove by it on our way to Iola!
Bracketology: I don't know if it's because he's a math whiz or because he gets up 30 minutes early every day to watch ESPN Sportscenter, but Carter is leading our NCAA pool at work! Yes, my 5 bucks paid for his entry fee but I suppose if he can hang on and win after this "anything can happen" weekend, I'll let him collect his winnings. We'll see. I guess we'll take it one round at a time...
God Time: We all had our special time with God tonight. Carter had to acolyte at the Wednesday evening service. I was a church basement lady and helped clean up after the soup supper. And hubby got to commune one on one with God in nature... on the golf course. I might join that church! I'm just glad he got to go out so he could say he golfed in March. We still have 10 days left of the month, maybe I'll be able to say that, too.
Snow Birds: With this early jump on Spring, we've seen all nature of flying creatures making their way back north. As I type this, my sister Rayna and husband Paul are aboard a plane from Texas, landing in Minnesota tonight. They are making a special trip for our mom's birthday party extravaganza this weekend. Can't wait to see them. For once, they did not have to pack their winter coats to come "home" for a visit!
Oh, the timer just went off. I gotta put my Martha Stewart hat back on. Hope you had a happy Hump Day!
Scenic Sunrise: Some days it's worth it to drag our butts out of bed before dawn when we are treated to a beautiful sunrise. Today the sun was a huge red ball. I tried to take a picture in the moving car and prayed for a red light in Plover so I could hold the camera steady, but we didn't get it. So my pictures are likely super blurry. It just happened that my friend Jean took this one of the same sunrise (of course) over the lake in Scandinavia -- probably right before we drove by it on our way to Iola!Bracketology: I don't know if it's because he's a math whiz or because he gets up 30 minutes early every day to watch ESPN Sportscenter, but Carter is leading our NCAA pool at work! Yes, my 5 bucks paid for his entry fee but I suppose if he can hang on and win after this "anything can happen" weekend, I'll let him collect his winnings. We'll see. I guess we'll take it one round at a time...
God Time: We all had our special time with God tonight. Carter had to acolyte at the Wednesday evening service. I was a church basement lady and helped clean up after the soup supper. And hubby got to commune one on one with God in nature... on the golf course. I might join that church! I'm just glad he got to go out so he could say he golfed in March. We still have 10 days left of the month, maybe I'll be able to say that, too.
Snow Birds: With this early jump on Spring, we've seen all nature of flying creatures making their way back north. As I type this, my sister Rayna and husband Paul are aboard a plane from Texas, landing in Minnesota tonight. They are making a special trip for our mom's birthday party extravaganza this weekend. Can't wait to see them. For once, they did not have to pack their winter coats to come "home" for a visit!
Oh, the timer just went off. I gotta put my Martha Stewart hat back on. Hope you had a happy Hump Day!
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Spring Has Sprung
Good thing I looked at the calendar today. For once I wasn't surprised to find it was the first day of Spring... especially since it's felt more like Summer lately! It makes it look like Spring was late to its own party.
We'll forgive it.
Especially since we don't know how long it's here to stay. Yeah, I know. I hate to bring that up. But you know we're in Wisconsin. And you know Ol' Man Winter never goes away quietly. So we'll just enjoy it while we can!
One sure sign of Spring is the start of baseball season. And I'm not talking about Joe and Justin and my Twins. I mean the Assumption Royals Middle School team. Carter and some of the guys went hitting tonight as a pre-season warmup of sorts. Their "real" practices will start after Spring Break next week.
Hubby is going to be one of several coaches for the team. So yes, he's already come out of retirement. That lasted a month. Ha. I'm glad. He has a lot to teach and he's very good with the kids. Should be a fun season.
Especially if this Spring weather holds! It has to, right? I mean technically, we just started!
We'll forgive it.
Especially since we don't know how long it's here to stay. Yeah, I know. I hate to bring that up. But you know we're in Wisconsin. And you know Ol' Man Winter never goes away quietly. So we'll just enjoy it while we can!
One sure sign of Spring is the start of baseball season. And I'm not talking about Joe and Justin and my Twins. I mean the Assumption Royals Middle School team. Carter and some of the guys went hitting tonight as a pre-season warmup of sorts. Their "real" practices will start after Spring Break next week.
Hubby is going to be one of several coaches for the team. So yes, he's already come out of retirement. That lasted a month. Ha. I'm glad. He has a lot to teach and he's very good with the kids. Should be a fun season.
Especially if this Spring weather holds! It has to, right? I mean technically, we just started!
Monday, March 19, 2012
The Voice
It's Monday evening so you know what that means. I'm hanging out with my guys.
Oh, not Jim and Carter. I'm talking about Adam and Blake on The Voice.
I ended up getting hooked on this show because I like the premise of it -- there are "blind auditions" so contestants are chosen by their voices, not their looks or any other factors. Just their talent. Of course, I also like watching and listening to Adam and Blake way more than Simon or Randy on that other singing show I used to watch.
I certainly could be doing something more productive with my time, but hubby actually propped a sign on the couch that says: "Reserved for Momma" so I had to sit here and watch.
Actually, I had some great offers for fun tonight. Could have gone to a book club or the driving range or Wal-Mart. Good times, I know. But unfortunately, I was dealing with a funny tummy today so I didn't want to stray too far from home. Or the couch.
So it all works out that I get to watch this show that I initially thought was named after me. Apparently when I get too annoying to the guys (not Adam and Blake), they say, "Don't make Momma use the Voice!"
Oh, yes, I deserve the remote one night!
Oh, not Jim and Carter. I'm talking about Adam and Blake on The Voice.
I ended up getting hooked on this show because I like the premise of it -- there are "blind auditions" so contestants are chosen by their voices, not their looks or any other factors. Just their talent. Of course, I also like watching and listening to Adam and Blake way more than Simon or Randy on that other singing show I used to watch.
I certainly could be doing something more productive with my time, but hubby actually propped a sign on the couch that says: "Reserved for Momma" so I had to sit here and watch.
Actually, I had some great offers for fun tonight. Could have gone to a book club or the driving range or Wal-Mart. Good times, I know. But unfortunately, I was dealing with a funny tummy today so I didn't want to stray too far from home. Or the couch.
So it all works out that I get to watch this show that I initially thought was named after me. Apparently when I get too annoying to the guys (not Adam and Blake), they say, "Don't make Momma use the Voice!"
Oh, yes, I deserve the remote one night!
Sunday, March 18, 2012
Spring Fever
On the calendar it's technically still winter. My mind isn't believing it.
I remember nice spring days like this in college. It would suddenly shoot up to 80 degrees and it was extreme torture to have to go to class. As soon as we were done for the day, we'd find our beach towels and lay out in the sun. Anywhere. If there wasn't room on the grass, we'd lay on the concrete sidewalk. We didn't care. We just wanted to catch some rays before they were gone! We'd even "pretend" we were doing homework but not a lot got done 'til we got back to our rooms later.
Spring fever is tough on students.
Today it got up to 80 again here. Carter couldn't have picked a worse day to sit inside and type up a research paper. But it had to be done! I think having the window open and hearing the birds (and perhaps neighbor kids) motivated him, because he got done a lot quicker than I expected.
I did let him take a break to go hitting at the batting cage. While he did that I got out and stretched my legs for 3 miles. Still alternating walking and running but at least I'm moving. Plus, I got to be out in the sun. I haven't changed my love for that since college!
After I showered, I picked Carter up and got him back on the computer. He finished that and other homework while I checked the basketball games. My bracket is so bad it flushed itself down the toilet today. I swear! At least the pressure's off and I can just watch when the Badgers play.
Hubby has a sports board meeting so I expected Carter would be camped out on the couch watching hoops. But he is watching some nature show "with incredible video footage" on the Science Channel.
Wow, you never know with that kid. I bet it changes at bedtime, though... "Wait, I just gotta check one more score..."
Ahhh, spring fever! Gotta love it!
I remember nice spring days like this in college. It would suddenly shoot up to 80 degrees and it was extreme torture to have to go to class. As soon as we were done for the day, we'd find our beach towels and lay out in the sun. Anywhere. If there wasn't room on the grass, we'd lay on the concrete sidewalk. We didn't care. We just wanted to catch some rays before they were gone! We'd even "pretend" we were doing homework but not a lot got done 'til we got back to our rooms later.
Spring fever is tough on students.
Today it got up to 80 again here. Carter couldn't have picked a worse day to sit inside and type up a research paper. But it had to be done! I think having the window open and hearing the birds (and perhaps neighbor kids) motivated him, because he got done a lot quicker than I expected.
I did let him take a break to go hitting at the batting cage. While he did that I got out and stretched my legs for 3 miles. Still alternating walking and running but at least I'm moving. Plus, I got to be out in the sun. I haven't changed my love for that since college!
After I showered, I picked Carter up and got him back on the computer. He finished that and other homework while I checked the basketball games. My bracket is so bad it flushed itself down the toilet today. I swear! At least the pressure's off and I can just watch when the Badgers play.
Hubby has a sports board meeting so I expected Carter would be camped out on the couch watching hoops. But he is watching some nature show "with incredible video footage" on the Science Channel.
Wow, you never know with that kid. I bet it changes at bedtime, though... "Wait, I just gotta check one more score..."
Ahhh, spring fever! Gotta love it!
Saturday, March 17, 2012
Wee Bit O' Fun
70 degrees at 8:40 pm. You'd think it's summer, but there was one obvious green thing missing from this St. Patrick's Day... grass.
It's still ugly, dead brown, but really, that's to be expected in mid-March. It just didn't FEEL like March! And I'm OK with that. It didn't spoil my Irish holiday one bit.
I really don't get that into St. Patty's Day. You'd think I would since I'm from Luck. But I'm 100% scandihoovian so it hardly matters to me. I fake it for Jim and Carter since they've got the blarney in their blood! I think Jim's 1/8 Irish so Carter's 1/16... just enough to warrant a "Kiss me, I'm Irish" smooch.
Since we went out to eat last night and wore green yesterday, today was just, well, Saturday. As luck would have it, I did get out of some spring cleaning, just like I hoped. I ended up doing a freelance design/editing job this morning so I could earn some gold for my pot. After that, though, I figured I better do something.
So I went for a walk/run. It must have gotten up to 80 or close to it today because it was way too hot to be trotting around the neighborhood. I only went 2 miles. Then continued to work up a sweat when I got home... mopping the floors. Oh yes I did! I even washed some windows. But that was the extent of it today.
Had to watch some hoops for my wee bit o' fun, you know.
We grilled out brats for supper with the next-door neighbors and watched the Badgers win. Also caught some high school state tourney action, too. But not a whole lot. It's hard to watch TV when it's so darn nice out. And we know it won't last.
I called my mother this afternoon and sat out on the swing on the back deck. We both wished we could bottle up this weather today and save it for next Saturday when we throw her big 80th birthday bash. At least from the long-range forecast, it looks snow-free next weekend. It might be half the temperature it is today, but that shouldn't stop people from coming. I hope not. My family may not be Irish, but we do count on luck once in awhile!
Hope you enjoyed your St. Patty's Day!
It's still ugly, dead brown, but really, that's to be expected in mid-March. It just didn't FEEL like March! And I'm OK with that. It didn't spoil my Irish holiday one bit.
I really don't get that into St. Patty's Day. You'd think I would since I'm from Luck. But I'm 100% scandihoovian so it hardly matters to me. I fake it for Jim and Carter since they've got the blarney in their blood! I think Jim's 1/8 Irish so Carter's 1/16... just enough to warrant a "Kiss me, I'm Irish" smooch.
Since we went out to eat last night and wore green yesterday, today was just, well, Saturday. As luck would have it, I did get out of some spring cleaning, just like I hoped. I ended up doing a freelance design/editing job this morning so I could earn some gold for my pot. After that, though, I figured I better do something.
So I went for a walk/run. It must have gotten up to 80 or close to it today because it was way too hot to be trotting around the neighborhood. I only went 2 miles. Then continued to work up a sweat when I got home... mopping the floors. Oh yes I did! I even washed some windows. But that was the extent of it today.
Had to watch some hoops for my wee bit o' fun, you know.
We grilled out brats for supper with the next-door neighbors and watched the Badgers win. Also caught some high school state tourney action, too. But not a whole lot. It's hard to watch TV when it's so darn nice out. And we know it won't last.
I called my mother this afternoon and sat out on the swing on the back deck. We both wished we could bottle up this weather today and save it for next Saturday when we throw her big 80th birthday bash. At least from the long-range forecast, it looks snow-free next weekend. It might be half the temperature it is today, but that shouldn't stop people from coming. I hope not. My family may not be Irish, but we do count on luck once in awhile!
Hope you enjoyed your St. Patty's Day!
Friday, March 16, 2012
March Gladness
Even though my NCAA bracket is already in the toilet, I can't complain about how our day wrapped up.Today is my mother-in-law's birthday so we went out for fish fries at the Wildhorse Saloon to celebrate the Austin family March birthdays... Casey's 21st (March 7), mom's 21-plus and our brother-in-law Baird's 50th (coming next weekend).
After dinner, we went over to Jim's sister's to eat cake and ice cream, visit... and watch my bracket implode before my eyes. Sigh. Other than that part, it was a nice evening.
And yes, another beautiful day in central Wisconsin and, I suspect, the entire Midwest. Looks like 70s temps for the weekend, too. I guess I will have no excuse not to get some spring cleaning done tomorrow.
Unless you help me come up with one...
Thursday, March 15, 2012
Sectional Showdown
Dateline ANTIGO ...
The stage was set for another girls basketball nail-biter tonight when our still #2 ranked Royals faced the still #1 ranked Wausau Newman team. The last two meetings, we lost to them -- once by 1 point after a last-second shot and once in double OT on our home court.
Tonight there was much more at stake. This was the first round of sectionals and the winner would be one step closer to Madison. Really, just one mere game away from state.
We normally wouldn't travel 90 miles for a game that did not involve our child. But how could we not?
Hubby and I -- both wearing our Royal Blue naturally -- actually headed straight up to Antigo from work, still over an hour from Iola. Carter caught a ride on the Pep Band bus. Oh yes, this was a big deal.
The gym was packed, split pretty evenly between Cardinal Red and Royal Blue. It was loud. We were excited. And the pressure was on.
Perhaps it was too much. Perhaps third time would not be a charm. We kept it sort of close the first quarter but we were down by 19 at halftime. Closed the gap a little in the third quarter but they just kicked our butt all over the place, beating us 58-31. What a sad way to go.
I suppose it's better than losing another heart breaker, but losing still sucks. Luckily, we have a young team so it was the "last game" for only 2 of the girls. Still sad.
Since we were so far away, we had Carter ride home with us instead of taking the bus back all the way to town -- and having to wait for it. We did make one stop at the Golden Arches so Carter and Dad could get fries and someone or two could get a Shamrock Shake.
Comfort food, man. Comfort food.
The stage was set for another girls basketball nail-biter tonight when our still #2 ranked Royals faced the still #1 ranked Wausau Newman team. The last two meetings, we lost to them -- once by 1 point after a last-second shot and once in double OT on our home court.
Tonight there was much more at stake. This was the first round of sectionals and the winner would be one step closer to Madison. Really, just one mere game away from state.
We normally wouldn't travel 90 miles for a game that did not involve our child. But how could we not?
Hubby and I -- both wearing our Royal Blue naturally -- actually headed straight up to Antigo from work, still over an hour from Iola. Carter caught a ride on the Pep Band bus. Oh yes, this was a big deal.
The gym was packed, split pretty evenly between Cardinal Red and Royal Blue. It was loud. We were excited. And the pressure was on.
Perhaps it was too much. Perhaps third time would not be a charm. We kept it sort of close the first quarter but we were down by 19 at halftime. Closed the gap a little in the third quarter but they just kicked our butt all over the place, beating us 58-31. What a sad way to go.
I suppose it's better than losing another heart breaker, but losing still sucks. Luckily, we have a young team so it was the "last game" for only 2 of the girls. Still sad.
Since we were so far away, we had Carter ride home with us instead of taking the bus back all the way to town -- and having to wait for it. We did make one stop at the Golden Arches so Carter and Dad could get fries and someone or two could get a Shamrock Shake.
Comfort food, man. Comfort food.
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Heat Wave
Oh yes, we can use the words "heat wave" in March when the temps are above 70 and all the local golf courses are open. I sat at my desk today and just wished I was anywhere but there. But realized there will -- or at least should -- be many more days like this.
It is only March after all.
Somewhat fitting that it was Pi Day today -- that's 3.14, not the Pie that goes good with ice cream. Though that would seem way more logical on a summery day like today. I somehow resisted, though.
I visited my hair artist for the first time in 3 months this morning. Long overdue. While she washed that gray right out of my hair, I saw the DQ sign flashing across the street: Blizzard of the Month -- Mint Oreo. Oh good green, er grief.
I plotted a way to stop there afterward and pick up just a small one on my way back to work. But then I remembered I had to weigh in when I got back and it really, really wasn't worth it. Sounds like I have major will power but I must confess I hoped hubby would detour to King Cone on the way home from work. That didn't pan out either.
Later, when Carter and I were at church -- just a mere 3 blocks from the Rapids DQ -- it crossed my mind again. This heat wave will do that to you!
I resisted though and made only one stop on the way home. And honestly, it was at the gas station. Not Culver's. I didn't even dare drive by in case the Flavor of the Day was Mint Explosion.
By then, the heat would have gotten to me. And who knows what I would have done?
Well, I think you know.
It is only March after all.
Somewhat fitting that it was Pi Day today -- that's 3.14, not the Pie that goes good with ice cream. Though that would seem way more logical on a summery day like today. I somehow resisted, though.
I visited my hair artist for the first time in 3 months this morning. Long overdue. While she washed that gray right out of my hair, I saw the DQ sign flashing across the street: Blizzard of the Month -- Mint Oreo. Oh good green, er grief.
I plotted a way to stop there afterward and pick up just a small one on my way back to work. But then I remembered I had to weigh in when I got back and it really, really wasn't worth it. Sounds like I have major will power but I must confess I hoped hubby would detour to King Cone on the way home from work. That didn't pan out either.
Later, when Carter and I were at church -- just a mere 3 blocks from the Rapids DQ -- it crossed my mind again. This heat wave will do that to you!
I resisted though and made only one stop on the way home. And honestly, it was at the gas station. Not Culver's. I didn't even dare drive by in case the Flavor of the Day was Mint Explosion.
By then, the heat would have gotten to me. And who knows what I would have done?
Well, I think you know.
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Focus
When I was 13 years old, this is what I wrote in my diary for March 13, 1981:
Dear Diary,
Today one of my friends told me that Darrin wrote Robyn + Darrin in his tablet. So now, if they're right, a boy likes me and I like a boy, but the boy I like isn't the boy that likes me. I wish Ross did like me. Maybe he does. I just wish I knew 'cause I like him very much.
G'night.
If my 13-year-old son kept a diary, his entry for March 13, 2012, might go something like this:
Dear Diary,
Today my parents and I met with the guidance counselor at school to map out a career plan for me. They call it an Individual Learning Plan and it will help me take all the right classes to prepare me for college, plus participate in plenty of community and service projects to build a resume for scholarships and college applications. We discussed lots of assessment tests I've already taken in Middle School -- academics to personality -- and everything points to me using my wonderful math or logic skills. Should be an interesting journey.
Oh, and I think a girl likes me.
G'night.
OK, not sure Carter would word it that way, but you see my point. Anything related to my future -- other than marrying Ross or Darrin -- was far from my mind in 8th grade. It's a different world today.
But that's a good thing.
We felt encouraged after our meeting today knowing our school does emphasize college and career prep -- and doesn't wait until the last minute to get it started. Sure, Carter might want to be a math teacher, architect or engineer, but he doesn't have to decide that for sure right now. Just sort of point his Learning Plan in that direction, focus, focus, focus and refine it as time goes on.
Phew. Can't believe we're having this conversation. I sort of sat there dumbfounded, thinking we could not possibly be talking about my baby deciding on a college in 3+ years. No, that is someone else's kid. Isn't it?
In my defense as a boy-crazed teenage girl, Carter is not necessarily more mature than me at 13. I am sure my son would be writing something similar about the girls -- if he had a diary.
Of course, if he did, I will admit he is smart enough not to let me find it.
He's using his brain for something!
Dear Diary,
Today one of my friends told me that Darrin wrote Robyn + Darrin in his tablet. So now, if they're right, a boy likes me and I like a boy, but the boy I like isn't the boy that likes me. I wish Ross did like me. Maybe he does. I just wish I knew 'cause I like him very much.
G'night.
If my 13-year-old son kept a diary, his entry for March 13, 2012, might go something like this:
Dear Diary,
Today my parents and I met with the guidance counselor at school to map out a career plan for me. They call it an Individual Learning Plan and it will help me take all the right classes to prepare me for college, plus participate in plenty of community and service projects to build a resume for scholarships and college applications. We discussed lots of assessment tests I've already taken in Middle School -- academics to personality -- and everything points to me using my wonderful math or logic skills. Should be an interesting journey.
Oh, and I think a girl likes me.
G'night.
OK, not sure Carter would word it that way, but you see my point. Anything related to my future -- other than marrying Ross or Darrin -- was far from my mind in 8th grade. It's a different world today.
But that's a good thing.
We felt encouraged after our meeting today knowing our school does emphasize college and career prep -- and doesn't wait until the last minute to get it started. Sure, Carter might want to be a math teacher, architect or engineer, but he doesn't have to decide that for sure right now. Just sort of point his Learning Plan in that direction, focus, focus, focus and refine it as time goes on.
Phew. Can't believe we're having this conversation. I sort of sat there dumbfounded, thinking we could not possibly be talking about my baby deciding on a college in 3+ years. No, that is someone else's kid. Isn't it?
In my defense as a boy-crazed teenage girl, Carter is not necessarily more mature than me at 13. I am sure my son would be writing something similar about the girls -- if he had a diary.
Of course, if he did, I will admit he is smart enough not to let me find it.
He's using his brain for something!
Monday, March 12, 2012
Briefing Room
Just some Monday briefs...
Mr. Sandman, bring me a dream: Who would have thought that changing the clocks would mess with all our sleeping schedules? It did. Big time. We were all up wandering the halls or tossing and turning throughout the night. This morning was not a good time to interact. 3 tired crabbies = silence over breakfast. The Sandman better not bypass our house tonight!!
Spellbound: So Carter brings home his report card and, as usual, he is just shy of getting straight A's. Every time he brings a grade up to an A, another slips down. So of 11 classes, he is getting 9 A's and 2 non-A's. The stunner is that one of his non-A's -- and this is very non-A -- is in language arts (you know, English, spelling, etc). How is that genetically possible? Apparently Dad and Mom kept all the writing and editing skills to ourselves. Unreal. I mean we ARE proud of him. But still...
March Madness: It's that time of year again. In my hands I have a NCAA bracket that I will fill out with total guesswork and wonder why I finish in the bottom 5 in our work pool. And I don't mean the bottom 5%. I mean the bottom 5 people! Yet, I still fill it out, pay to enter and hope. I have no knowledge whatsoever of college basketball. I just look at rankings and randomly pick upsets... 'Cause you never know! Anything can happen in March Madness. I might even finish ahead of Carter (a.k.a. Mr. Sportscenter)...
Well not quite anything.
Mr. Sandman, bring me a dream: Who would have thought that changing the clocks would mess with all our sleeping schedules? It did. Big time. We were all up wandering the halls or tossing and turning throughout the night. This morning was not a good time to interact. 3 tired crabbies = silence over breakfast. The Sandman better not bypass our house tonight!!
Spellbound: So Carter brings home his report card and, as usual, he is just shy of getting straight A's. Every time he brings a grade up to an A, another slips down. So of 11 classes, he is getting 9 A's and 2 non-A's. The stunner is that one of his non-A's -- and this is very non-A -- is in language arts (you know, English, spelling, etc). How is that genetically possible? Apparently Dad and Mom kept all the writing and editing skills to ourselves. Unreal. I mean we ARE proud of him. But still...
March Madness: It's that time of year again. In my hands I have a NCAA bracket that I will fill out with total guesswork and wonder why I finish in the bottom 5 in our work pool. And I don't mean the bottom 5%. I mean the bottom 5 people! Yet, I still fill it out, pay to enter and hope. I have no knowledge whatsoever of college basketball. I just look at rankings and randomly pick upsets... 'Cause you never know! Anything can happen in March Madness. I might even finish ahead of Carter (a.k.a. Mr. Sportscenter)...
Well not quite anything.
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Winter Wait
The weather forecasters are going to be shown some serious love this week. We really have sprung forward into spring and it is wonderful. The winter wait is over.
I can't imagine there was anyone in our neck of the woods who did not open all their windows today and air our their houses. It was nice to let the fresh, clean air in ... and watch the winter dust swirl around. Well, just a teeny bit.
This has got to be a favorite day for pets, too. Our cat, confined permanently indoors, ran from window to window to screen door to determine which was the best place for sunbathing without too much wind. When I went outside to stretch my legs a few miles this afternoon, I saw no less than 4 dogs taking their owners out for a springtime walk. What an awesome day!
The only thing I don't like about the winter wait being over is that the winter weight is not!
First time putting shorts on and ouch. That's not a good look. My body put on some major fluff during hibernation so I better get more than just a spring in my step. It better be hopping! Probably a good thing we're not going anywhere for spring break in a few weeks. I have a little extra time before ice cream season -- I mean swimsuit season.
Uff da. My "good choices" part of the brain must still be in hibernation!
I can't imagine there was anyone in our neck of the woods who did not open all their windows today and air our their houses. It was nice to let the fresh, clean air in ... and watch the winter dust swirl around. Well, just a teeny bit.
This has got to be a favorite day for pets, too. Our cat, confined permanently indoors, ran from window to window to screen door to determine which was the best place for sunbathing without too much wind. When I went outside to stretch my legs a few miles this afternoon, I saw no less than 4 dogs taking their owners out for a springtime walk. What an awesome day!
The only thing I don't like about the winter wait being over is that the winter weight is not!
First time putting shorts on and ouch. That's not a good look. My body put on some major fluff during hibernation so I better get more than just a spring in my step. It better be hopping! Probably a good thing we're not going anywhere for spring break in a few weeks. I have a little extra time before ice cream season -- I mean swimsuit season.
Uff da. My "good choices" part of the brain must still be in hibernation!
Saturday, March 10, 2012
Spring Forward
As much as I hate losing an hour of sleep tonight as we Spring Forward, I love the fact that we are springing forward to Spring and then Summer! And today we got a taste of it.
Weird how yesterday morning we had to bundle up because it was only 18 degrees out and today, well, I was able to go running in short sleeves. That's Wisconsin!
It would have been the perfect day for spring cleaning -- for those with such an ambition. (And no, that wasn't me.) I did get my Saturday "chores" done and plenty of laundry but I did not want to stay inside. When I saw it was 59 degrees out, my decision was made.
I wasn't sure if I could get by with short sleeves only because winds were gusting 20-30 mph. But even with the wind, which was very tough to run against, it still felt like a mild spring day! I went 3 miles, alternating running and walking with each song on my mp3 player. It felt OK but not great. I have a long ways to go to get back into it. But I've got nothing but time, right?
While I was out sweating, hubby was helping out at the batting cage and Carter was shooting hoops in the driveway -- which no longer has Lake Austin, just a little swamp. But there's our almost straight-A kid out there wearing a WHITE t-shirt shooting a muddy basketball! Sigh...
Good thing he had to change to play Pep Band later! He got a ride to the girls regional final game while Jim and I met our friends Scott and Sandy for dinner in Appleton.
The Assumption girls ended up kicking some major butt, winning 77-22 to take the regional championship. Next they'll have a rematch against the Wausau Newman team that gave them their only 2 losses this season. Should be an intense sectional game next Thursday in Antigo!
We had some intense fun of our own tonight -- if you call watching your dinner go up in flames before your eyes intense. We ate at Nakashima of Japan, a sushi and hibachi restaurant, where the chef prepares your flaming, delicious meal on a big skillet/grill in front of you. Very entertaining and oh so good!
We are still full so we've lost a little spring in our step, but we'll get it back, I suppose, once we change the clocks.
Happy Daylight Saving Time!
Weird how yesterday morning we had to bundle up because it was only 18 degrees out and today, well, I was able to go running in short sleeves. That's Wisconsin!
It would have been the perfect day for spring cleaning -- for those with such an ambition. (And no, that wasn't me.) I did get my Saturday "chores" done and plenty of laundry but I did not want to stay inside. When I saw it was 59 degrees out, my decision was made.
I wasn't sure if I could get by with short sleeves only because winds were gusting 20-30 mph. But even with the wind, which was very tough to run against, it still felt like a mild spring day! I went 3 miles, alternating running and walking with each song on my mp3 player. It felt OK but not great. I have a long ways to go to get back into it. But I've got nothing but time, right?
While I was out sweating, hubby was helping out at the batting cage and Carter was shooting hoops in the driveway -- which no longer has Lake Austin, just a little swamp. But there's our almost straight-A kid out there wearing a WHITE t-shirt shooting a muddy basketball! Sigh...
Good thing he had to change to play Pep Band later! He got a ride to the girls regional final game while Jim and I met our friends Scott and Sandy for dinner in Appleton.
The Assumption girls ended up kicking some major butt, winning 77-22 to take the regional championship. Next they'll have a rematch against the Wausau Newman team that gave them their only 2 losses this season. Should be an intense sectional game next Thursday in Antigo!
We had some intense fun of our own tonight -- if you call watching your dinner go up in flames before your eyes intense. We ate at Nakashima of Japan, a sushi and hibachi restaurant, where the chef prepares your flaming, delicious meal on a big skillet/grill in front of you. Very entertaining and oh so good!
We are still full so we've lost a little spring in our step, but we'll get it back, I suppose, once we change the clocks.
Happy Daylight Saving Time!
Friday, March 9, 2012
Recovery Zone
You know sometimes you are so tired you say you'll fall asleep before your head hits the pillow? It can happen.
I really haven't been sleeping the greatest lately and got very little Wednesday night, getting home at midnight after the play. It all caught up with me by last night. I told Carter at 9 p.m. I was going to lay down. I was going to figure out which book to start reading and the next thing I know, hubby is home from the boys' basketball game and it is 11:30. Whoa.
Carter told me this morning he came in to say good night and had to shut my light off because I was out. Big time.
Meanwhile I am in La La Land and hubby is having another stressful travel experience. All of the Assumption fans did. The sectional game was up in Antigo. After our boys lost, they had to travel home in blinding snow (in parts) and icy roads (in other parts). In fact they had to exit off the freeway to avoid a 5-car pileup due to black ice. Scary. Some of our fans were involved in accidents, but thankfully Jim wasn't one of them. He was riding with other people so I am so grateful to them for getting him home safely!
Today we really, really would have liked it to be Saturday so we could just sleep in and recover. We'll have wait.
Had a hard time getting up but had a productive day at work even though I had to leave a bit early so I could go see Dr. Fun for a not-so-fun procedure. He had to take some things out that shouldn't be there and hope they never come back. So I will have a little recovery time for that, too. It's all going to be OK.
To take our mind off things, we went to watch the Assumption girls in their regional semi-final tonight against Laona. They fell behind early but some miraculous comeback ensued and they didn't stop. Our girls ended kicking major butt that second half and won 68-28! Onto the regional final at home tomorrow night!
All this excitement is making me tired. Or I could say, all this "awake" time is making me tired. I think I've typed long enough for my bed to heat up. Time to go to sleep and see if I can't do that "sleep before hittng the pillow" trick 2 nights in a row.
G'night!
I really haven't been sleeping the greatest lately and got very little Wednesday night, getting home at midnight after the play. It all caught up with me by last night. I told Carter at 9 p.m. I was going to lay down. I was going to figure out which book to start reading and the next thing I know, hubby is home from the boys' basketball game and it is 11:30. Whoa.
Carter told me this morning he came in to say good night and had to shut my light off because I was out. Big time.
Meanwhile I am in La La Land and hubby is having another stressful travel experience. All of the Assumption fans did. The sectional game was up in Antigo. After our boys lost, they had to travel home in blinding snow (in parts) and icy roads (in other parts). In fact they had to exit off the freeway to avoid a 5-car pileup due to black ice. Scary. Some of our fans were involved in accidents, but thankfully Jim wasn't one of them. He was riding with other people so I am so grateful to them for getting him home safely!
Today we really, really would have liked it to be Saturday so we could just sleep in and recover. We'll have wait.
Had a hard time getting up but had a productive day at work even though I had to leave a bit early so I could go see Dr. Fun for a not-so-fun procedure. He had to take some things out that shouldn't be there and hope they never come back. So I will have a little recovery time for that, too. It's all going to be OK.
To take our mind off things, we went to watch the Assumption girls in their regional semi-final tonight against Laona. They fell behind early but some miraculous comeback ensued and they didn't stop. Our girls ended kicking major butt that second half and won 68-28! Onto the regional final at home tomorrow night!
All this excitement is making me tired. Or I could say, all this "awake" time is making me tired. I think I've typed long enough for my bed to heat up. Time to go to sleep and see if I can't do that "sleep before hittng the pillow" trick 2 nights in a row.
G'night!
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Angels We Have Heard on High
It may seem strange to title my blog after a Christmas Carol in March, but you'll understand in a minute...
Today hubby and I went to a funeral for my mother-in-law's sister, who has been suffering from Lou Gehrig's Disease. As the debilitating disease progressed, she was losing weight, losing ability to function normally, even to speak clearly. By the end of last week, she actually went a few days without voicing anything. It was Saturday then that a priest was called to administer Last Rites. Later that evening, nothing short of a miracle occurred.
Surrounded by her husband and children, she suddenly woke up, could speak perfectly clearly and told them about seeing Mary, Jesus, angels and her young grandson who died a few years ago. Unreal. She also was able to talk to each of them individually to say goodbye.
What an amazing story. What a comfort to the family, too, to not only say farewell but know she is out of pain and home with God.
Of course, it didn't make the funeral any less sad. It hits too close to home when I see my mother-in-law and her surviving sisters so distraught. How could I survive losing one of MY sisters? I couldn't!!
It reminds me how blessed I am to not only have my parents but my 7 siblings, too -- who are angels in their own right.
Today hubby and I went to a funeral for my mother-in-law's sister, who has been suffering from Lou Gehrig's Disease. As the debilitating disease progressed, she was losing weight, losing ability to function normally, even to speak clearly. By the end of last week, she actually went a few days without voicing anything. It was Saturday then that a priest was called to administer Last Rites. Later that evening, nothing short of a miracle occurred.
Surrounded by her husband and children, she suddenly woke up, could speak perfectly clearly and told them about seeing Mary, Jesus, angels and her young grandson who died a few years ago. Unreal. She also was able to talk to each of them individually to say goodbye.
What an amazing story. What a comfort to the family, too, to not only say farewell but know she is out of pain and home with God.
Of course, it didn't make the funeral any less sad. It hits too close to home when I see my mother-in-law and her surviving sisters so distraught. How could I survive losing one of MY sisters? I couldn't!!
It reminds me how blessed I am to not only have my parents but my 7 siblings, too -- who are angels in their own right.
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
A Jolly Holiday With Mary
My friend Christine and I popped open our umbrellas, caught the East wind and headed to #17 Cherry Tree Lane to spend the evening with Mary Poppins and the Banks family.As you can see, we had really decent seats for the Broadway show! And it was a packed house at the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center in Appleton. I loved the Mary Poppins musical movie as a kid but haven't seen it in years. I had hoped we would really like this presentation tonight. In truth, we absolutely loved it! It far exceeded our expectations!
In fact, it was supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!
Now it's very, very, very late for a "school night" so it's time to put our umbrellas away, take a spoonful of sugar and have sweet dreams!
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Super Tuesday
No, it's not an election here in Wisconsin Rapids. It's a "Super Tuesday" because our girls' hoops team won their first game on the road to state... if all goes well.
Our Assumption team is ranked second in all of Division 5 schools in Wisconsin. We hope to prove that we earned that ranking. Tonight was not too big a test, though. We played White Lake, who I am not sure had a win all season.
They did not get one tonight either. After a slow and sloppy start, our girls kicked their butts 64-24. I suspect the games will get far more challenging from here on out.
In a way, I hope so. The crowd was so quiet, we were being lulled to sleep. Not all bad since I need to be a sleep in exactly 3 minutes to get up early for work tomorrow. Now I'm halfway there!
If only I could train the cat to turn my blanket on when we're gone. Then I'd be toasty and asleep in no time.
Now that would be a Super Tuesday! G'nite!
Our Assumption team is ranked second in all of Division 5 schools in Wisconsin. We hope to prove that we earned that ranking. Tonight was not too big a test, though. We played White Lake, who I am not sure had a win all season.
They did not get one tonight either. After a slow and sloppy start, our girls kicked their butts 64-24. I suspect the games will get far more challenging from here on out.
In a way, I hope so. The crowd was so quiet, we were being lulled to sleep. Not all bad since I need to be a sleep in exactly 3 minutes to get up early for work tomorrow. Now I'm halfway there!
If only I could train the cat to turn my blanket on when we're gone. Then I'd be toasty and asleep in no time.
Now that would be a Super Tuesday! G'nite!
Monday, March 5, 2012
Monday in Brief
March Madness: The first thing Carter asked me this morning was "When do we get our brackets?" Well how can we not be thinking about basketball around here when we're watching hoops at every level -- from high school to NBA? The answer is that the NCAA brackets will not come this week, but we will hopefully enjoy anywhere from 1 to 3 Assumption playoff games this week between girls and boys teams on the road to state!
Coming of Age: We've had some news in our neck of the woods that really shook us up. A UW-Stevens Point student went missing Saturday after celebrating his 21st birthday at the bars. Today they pulled his body out of the Wisconsin River, just a few hundred feet from the last bar he visited. Since our Casey is turning 21 on Wednesday, this is really scary stuff to hear. We tell him to be careful and he says he always is, but it's scary nonetheless. Why do kids have to prove their adulthood with this particular rite of passage? I don't know. I guess we all did.
Making the Cut: I always cut the guys' hair. Cutting hair is something I learned how to do from my oldest sister long ago. It's just what I do. Frankly, the money I save cutting their hair gives me more money to pay for my expensive hair artist! Ha. Last night I cut Carter's hair but even though I cut it how I always do, he got really upset because I cut it too short on the side. "Where's my sideburns?" Seriously, dude, you did not have sideburns. And really, does an 8th-grader need sideburns? So I said fine, I retire from cutting hair. Tonight he said I better be like Brett Favre and un-retire because he wanted it all buzzed off now. So I relented and gave him his second haircut in 2 days.
Do I have a diva in the making? This could be a long week!
Coming of Age: We've had some news in our neck of the woods that really shook us up. A UW-Stevens Point student went missing Saturday after celebrating his 21st birthday at the bars. Today they pulled his body out of the Wisconsin River, just a few hundred feet from the last bar he visited. Since our Casey is turning 21 on Wednesday, this is really scary stuff to hear. We tell him to be careful and he says he always is, but it's scary nonetheless. Why do kids have to prove their adulthood with this particular rite of passage? I don't know. I guess we all did.
Making the Cut: I always cut the guys' hair. Cutting hair is something I learned how to do from my oldest sister long ago. It's just what I do. Frankly, the money I save cutting their hair gives me more money to pay for my expensive hair artist! Ha. Last night I cut Carter's hair but even though I cut it how I always do, he got really upset because I cut it too short on the side. "Where's my sideburns?" Seriously, dude, you did not have sideburns. And really, does an 8th-grader need sideburns? So I said fine, I retire from cutting hair. Tonight he said I better be like Brett Favre and un-retire because he wanted it all buzzed off now. So I relented and gave him his second haircut in 2 days.
Do I have a diva in the making? This could be a long week!
Sunday, March 4, 2012
March Padness
Nothing quite initiates a long overdue reunion with Jillian Michaels than the threat of jean shopping. Oh I know hubby's trying to be nice, but all I can think of is, "I don't want to shop for this size!"
Just give me the month of March to get rid of some padding, and we'll go from there.
I had hoped today would be sunny and mild so I could get out for a run of sorts. It got sunny but not really warm enough to melt the frozen slush junk on the roads and our driveway. So I decided to dust off the Jillian Michaels 30-Day Shred DVD and give it go.
Yikes. I can tell I've been off the cardio wagon awhile. This is like starting over. I suspect as bad as I thought it was today, it will be worse tomorrow when those unused muscles wonder why I woke them from their long winter's nap.
I guess I'll deal with it. I figure since I may have to "tough it out" with some medication side effects this week, along with an unwelcome procedure, how hard can it be to survive sore muscles? I suppose they'll thank me later, right?
I'll just treat this like I have everything else lately --with baby steps... which would make it logical for the March pad-ness to pitter pad-der out the door!
Just give me the month of March to get rid of some padding, and we'll go from there.
I had hoped today would be sunny and mild so I could get out for a run of sorts. It got sunny but not really warm enough to melt the frozen slush junk on the roads and our driveway. So I decided to dust off the Jillian Michaels 30-Day Shred DVD and give it go.
Yikes. I can tell I've been off the cardio wagon awhile. This is like starting over. I suspect as bad as I thought it was today, it will be worse tomorrow when those unused muscles wonder why I woke them from their long winter's nap.
I guess I'll deal with it. I figure since I may have to "tough it out" with some medication side effects this week, along with an unwelcome procedure, how hard can it be to survive sore muscles? I suppose they'll thank me later, right?
I'll just treat this like I have everything else lately --with baby steps... which would make it logical for the March pad-ness to pitter pad-der out the door!
Saturday, March 3, 2012
Strike It Up
Some friends of ours caught us at a weak moment awhile back and we decided to sign up with them for a bowling tournament today.The last time I bowled was when we were in some scotch-double tourney with them. I didn't like that format. It's sort of like "alternate shot" in golf scrambles. Too much pressure and not a good time when your partner is 100 times better than you.
That was 2 years ago. Maybe bowling is like riding a bike. You don't forget how. The problem is, I've never been a very good bike rider.
Today's format, thankfully, was 9-pin tap. That meant that if you hit 9 pins down, that was considered a strike. Perfect for me who always manages to leave one pin short of a strike! It took me awhile to hit my stride. In fact, the whole first game. Luckily they scratch the lowest of 4 -- yes 4 -- games.
So while I only shot a 79 the first game, I managed some respectible over 100 games after that -- which was my main goal! Shot 169, 163 then a 128 for my tired 4th game.
Hubby doesn't bowl any more often than my once every few years, but he never loses his touch! His worse game was like my best! He scratched his 164 but kept his 220, 212 and 206. Way to go! As competitive as I am, I wisely wouldn't dream of trying to beat Jim in bowling!Actually, I had a ton of fun today knowing there was no pressure to win anything. And no chance either. I just enjoyed spending some time with my friends Jenny (left) and Christine pictured above -- and their hubbies -- with no kids and a little adult conversation.
We didn't win any prizes but someone felt sorry for me and gave me a bag of jelly beans. Yum. That's as good as a trophy in my book!
Friday, March 2, 2012
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Two months ago today, I sat in the ER hooked up to all kinds of wires for an EKG and a bevy of tests. The ensuing two-month drama has been nothing short of pure hell for me. Today, though, for the first time, I was normal.
Sure, I had to break down and get a little tiny dose of assistance, but I felt normal finally. And I was so excited to drive to and from work -- even in snow -- with no anxiety whatsoever. Amazing! I was so happy I stopped at King Cone in Plover and got ice cream for all of us. Yes, they opened just for me! (Well, it was just me at the moment.)
I was so relieved and excited about everything. Then I learned I passed the baton of bad luck to hubby. And right now he is living out a scene -- well, the whole movie practically -- of Planes, Trains & Automobiles. If you've seen the John Candy-Steve Martin movie, you know something of the nightmare he's experiencing! Though, I'm pretty sure it's not funny yet.
It started this morning with the severe storms and tornadoes that swept through the central U.S. I don't even know if they hit St. Louis, where hubby and 4 co-workers have been at a trade show, but they were severe enough to cancel flights for most of the day.
Since one of Jim's co-workers had driven down a company car -- a big ol' Suburban with probably a million miles on it -- they all decided to ride back in that this afternoon instead of staying an extra day in St. Louis. Sensible plan except that they were leaving one area of storms for another. This time, facing snow.
As the afternoon wore on, I was getting texts from Jim about how slow-going things were. In fact, it was 3 hours ago when he said they were stopped in traffic on a freeway in Illinois because there were several storm-related semi and car wrecks in both the north- and south-bound lanes. They ended up having to sit there for 2 hours -- while Carter and I enjoyed a quick Assumption boys basketball win (69-26).
After they got going again, this is after 7 p.m., the Suburban started "limping along... It's trying to break down," Jim said. Their hope was to get as far as the Rockford Airport (I'm sure a small one) so they could rent a vehicle and get to Madison, where Jim's car is parked. Turns out, every rental place along the way closed at 6 p.m.
I hate getting texts like "35 mph on the shoulder... don't think we can make it." I feel so helpless! I certainly have plenty of people praying for their safe return. It's also a good thing the snow is moving east and out of their way.
Last message I got was 20 minutes ago indicating they still had 37 miles to go to Madison. Trust me, that is a long ways. It's just short of driving from our house to Iola and I have done that, if you recall, with car issues. Not fun. Very stressful. I am sure not the team bonding experience the 5 of them signed up for!
Their first goal is to make it to Madison. Second would be to get a rental vehicle for the 4 going on to Stevens Point. If nothing is open, I imagine they have to all squeeze into our tiny Honda Civic and Jim will have to take them home in Point before coming home to Rapids.
Now he just texted and said they should make it to Madison OK. Cross your fingers!
Uff da. Thankfully, for him, this is his last work trip for the winter.
Have I mentioned we hate 2012? I think so. Sigh...
Sure, I had to break down and get a little tiny dose of assistance, but I felt normal finally. And I was so excited to drive to and from work -- even in snow -- with no anxiety whatsoever. Amazing! I was so happy I stopped at King Cone in Plover and got ice cream for all of us. Yes, they opened just for me! (Well, it was just me at the moment.)
I was so relieved and excited about everything. Then I learned I passed the baton of bad luck to hubby. And right now he is living out a scene -- well, the whole movie practically -- of Planes, Trains & Automobiles. If you've seen the John Candy-Steve Martin movie, you know something of the nightmare he's experiencing! Though, I'm pretty sure it's not funny yet.
It started this morning with the severe storms and tornadoes that swept through the central U.S. I don't even know if they hit St. Louis, where hubby and 4 co-workers have been at a trade show, but they were severe enough to cancel flights for most of the day.
Since one of Jim's co-workers had driven down a company car -- a big ol' Suburban with probably a million miles on it -- they all decided to ride back in that this afternoon instead of staying an extra day in St. Louis. Sensible plan except that they were leaving one area of storms for another. This time, facing snow.
As the afternoon wore on, I was getting texts from Jim about how slow-going things were. In fact, it was 3 hours ago when he said they were stopped in traffic on a freeway in Illinois because there were several storm-related semi and car wrecks in both the north- and south-bound lanes. They ended up having to sit there for 2 hours -- while Carter and I enjoyed a quick Assumption boys basketball win (69-26).
After they got going again, this is after 7 p.m., the Suburban started "limping along... It's trying to break down," Jim said. Their hope was to get as far as the Rockford Airport (I'm sure a small one) so they could rent a vehicle and get to Madison, where Jim's car is parked. Turns out, every rental place along the way closed at 6 p.m.
I hate getting texts like "35 mph on the shoulder... don't think we can make it." I feel so helpless! I certainly have plenty of people praying for their safe return. It's also a good thing the snow is moving east and out of their way.
Last message I got was 20 minutes ago indicating they still had 37 miles to go to Madison. Trust me, that is a long ways. It's just short of driving from our house to Iola and I have done that, if you recall, with car issues. Not fun. Very stressful. I am sure not the team bonding experience the 5 of them signed up for!
Their first goal is to make it to Madison. Second would be to get a rental vehicle for the 4 going on to Stevens Point. If nothing is open, I imagine they have to all squeeze into our tiny Honda Civic and Jim will have to take them home in Point before coming home to Rapids.
Now he just texted and said they should make it to Madison OK. Cross your fingers!
Uff da. Thankfully, for him, this is his last work trip for the winter.
Have I mentioned we hate 2012? I think so. Sigh...
Thursday, March 1, 2012
In Like a Wet (Wool) Blanket
With temps in the mid 30s and no additional precipitation today, we'd have to say March came in like a lamb -- albeit a sloppy wet one!
Was able to get the CRV through Lake Austin out front, but all that slush made me nervous I was going to get stuck!
The important news today is that after 2 nights of delaying our boys basketball playoff game, it finally was on tonight! We didn't want to miss it -- mainly because Carter was going to get to play Pep Band with his cousin Colin... a rare occurrence since Colin quit band just at the time Carter started at Assumption. So that was cool for them.
Of course, with all my scrapbooking might, I tried to get a picture of the two of them. Not so easy. Colin is tall and I could see him blowing his trumpet. Carter was only a few feet away but strategically held his big ol' baritone in front of his face and had his music stand blocking my view from another angle. What an uncooperative witness!
I guess the important thing is that we won the game. Big time. I mean really big. Final score 71-21. Poor Wabeno had a very long bus ride back Up North.
Since we're behind on the weather-delayed playoffs, we already play again tomorrow night. Something tells me it won't be as easy.
To win OR get a picture!
Was able to get the CRV through Lake Austin out front, but all that slush made me nervous I was going to get stuck!
The important news today is that after 2 nights of delaying our boys basketball playoff game, it finally was on tonight! We didn't want to miss it -- mainly because Carter was going to get to play Pep Band with his cousin Colin... a rare occurrence since Colin quit band just at the time Carter started at Assumption. So that was cool for them.
Of course, with all my scrapbooking might, I tried to get a picture of the two of them. Not so easy. Colin is tall and I could see him blowing his trumpet. Carter was only a few feet away but strategically held his big ol' baritone in front of his face and had his music stand blocking my view from another angle. What an uncooperative witness!
I guess the important thing is that we won the game. Big time. I mean really big. Final score 71-21. Poor Wabeno had a very long bus ride back Up North.
Since we're behind on the weather-delayed playoffs, we already play again tomorrow night. Something tells me it won't be as easy.
To win OR get a picture!
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