Do the Puyallup

Girl Time

2008-12-21T18:34:00.000-08:00

My sister Renee came to visit, and was only supposed to spend the night with me and then go to my mom's house in Port Angeles. Then the blizzard snow came and she has gotten to stay the last four days with us. Sorry Mom, you loss is my gain. We have been playing in the snow and finishing our Christmas shopping. I think we might have a break tomorrow and be able to deliver the goods to Mom, but until then, its girl time.

Have a holly jolly Christmas

2008-12-10T19:16:00.001-08:00

Ella stayed home from school today with a bit of a sore throat. As soon as the school bus rounded the corner and went out of sight, she started in that she wanted to decorate her gingerbread house. This is the finished product! I noticed that many of the decorations would end up in her mouth before actually making it on the house. All that sugar has been great for her sore throat as I notice quite a hacking cough building now. Nyquil, where are you? I can tell this is going to be a long night of me listening to coughing and Ella snoring.

I am Michael Phelps.

2008-11-08T09:44:00.000-08:00

I have been trying to brainstorm something for the fam to do over the winter months that might be fun and keep us from molding. Earlier this week, while torturing myself at the Y, I noticed that the pool is open to all on Friday nights. I then, in my head, created the Litterell family swim night on Friday's. What, am I crazy? Actually doing something that puts me in a swim suit on a weekly basis? I'm getting braver in my advancing years... All week I pumped up "Family Swim night" to everyone, including Taylor and Derek. They were oh so thrilled in their asshole teenage kind of way- (most of you have yet to behold that treat.) So last night, at the last minute, those two found excuses not to go (like not missing the 20th rerun of The Hills), but Chuck, Ella and I headed down to the Y.

On normal days, our YMCA is packed with rug rats and parents. If it wasn't for the great kids activities, I would go and join LA Fitness. To my surprise, I found that on Friday nights, there is hardly a soul there. So, we threw on our suits and jumped in the lap pool. For the next half an hour, Chuck and I swam laps while Ella jumped between laps and the huge water slide. She is a fantastic swimmer- better than me, and she can go go go forever. I can't even say what a great workout it was- and I didn't even realize I was working out! This morning I think every single muscle in my body is screaming- including my ankles! Family swim night was one brainstorm of mine that was actually great fun and I think it will stick- at least through the winter.

When we got home, Taylor even said he would go next week. AMAZING! I think he detected the excitement in the air and doesn't want to miss out next time. Ya right! I asked if he would do laps with me and he laughed and said, "Ya right Mom, I might splash around, but no laps." Oh well, at least he said he would go and that is a miracle. Only time will tell.

BOO!!!

2008-10-31T23:15:00.000-07:00

Halloween did not dissapoint this year. Ella was a high school musical cheerleader, but to my surprise, she let me get jiggy with it and make her the walking dead. I have to say, she got great reviews from all. It is so nice that Ella has her cousins to share all of the holiday's with too. Ella tolerates Quinn more all the time- he actually seems to be pretty fun to hang with. How can I tell? I do not hear quite as many, "Quinn stop it!" in a horrible whiny voice. Anyways, the kids looked so cute in their costumes. Our new neighborhood is also jam packed with so many kids too. I did get a little crazy with the fake mustache on Margot. I just had to! As for my fav holiday- it was a good one! One observation... did anyone have trick or treaters still knocking on their door at 10pm? I did. Tiny kids with their parents. Hmmmm....

Homecoming

2008-10-29T22:30:00.000-07:00

Taylor had his homecoming dance this weekend. He has a nice girlfriend and she is a Senior...score Taylor. Check out the kid in the kilt- and the table full of monster... OOOHH Party!!! I won't tell what Mom and her friends would have been drinking. Did I say that?

Happy Birthday to Taylor... How do I have a 17 year old?

2008-10-23T21:23:00.000-07:00

It is Taylor's birthday today. I tried a little surprise party for him by telling one of his good friends to invite all the other friends over. I was nervous, because when you have a teenager, often your best intentions can go over like a wet noodle. Also, I totally did not think that the kids would keep it a secret. Anyways, I told everyone to get here at 6:30. Taylor had to work until 7. Perfect, right? Well, Taylor called me at about 5 and told me that a kid at work came down with a rash, so he was going to stay later and cover his shift. I said, " Well, Taylor, it's your birthday, I think someone else should cover for him." He says, " It's OK Mom, there's nothing going on and I want to earn extra money, so no big deal." Trying to not be too obvious, I said "No, Taylor, I think you should come home by 7:30 to spend time with us". Now panicking, I called his friend that works with him and asked her to call their boss to let him know there is a birthday waiting for him. All the kids get here, and we are partying down.... just me, Ella and 10 or so 16 and 17 year olds and it is 7:45 before I finally here from Taylor. Next, his girlfriend gets a call from him and I think he was hinting around to her that he wanted to stop by her house. Wow, I realized then that he really had no idea about his party. She played it off pretty good and she told him she just woke up. Then, she told him she had to go to the store with her Mom. I bet by then he was really starting to feel a little Sixteen Candles. When he walked in, they all jumped out and screamed Happy Birthday and he was really surprised. Anyways, I will pat myself on the back because my teenager actually has been smiles all night.

Grandpa Mike's visit has been action packed.

2008-09-20T13:58:00.000-07:00

So, since my Dad only visits once per year, we have to jam it all in to get through the fun. First, we had a get together so he could see baby Margot for the first time and visit with us all. Next, it was off to the Puyallup fair for one last belt buster. The kids pretty much saved us though because all they wanted to do is ride the rides so we did not get much eatin' time. Kiley and Jason joined us, and the kids all get along great! Quinn is a joy because he just tags along with the big kids and is game for anything. Even MUTTEN BUSTIN'!!!! Yes, we entered Quinn in the Sheep riding competition and it was the single most best thing that I have seen in a long time. You must must must go to Lonnie's blog and check out the footage. I cannot believe that Quinn actually went through with it, there were so many kids that refused the moment that they sat them on the sheep. That was one of the rules, that no kids would be made to do it. He was the youngest kid to go for it I am proud to say as most were 5 and 6 year olds. Also, we had to get Quinn in on the action this year, because at his svelt 55 pounds, we knew that by next year, he may not make the 65 pound weight limit. So, at Quinns expense, we all had a hootin good time! After the fair, we came home and Dad made a fish fry out of the crazy amount of halibut he brought from Alaska. Yum!

Look at the hands on that kid! Plus, he can catch with his eyes closed!

The kids had fun riding rides at the fair... Quinn keeps right up with the big kids too. Fear is not a problem!

Quinn and Ella miss grandpa.... Guilt alert.

Everyone luvs a happy baby!

Grandpa got to meet Margot for the first time.

If your a Husky, then Oklahoma just sucks!

2008-09-14T13:24:00.001-07:00

Derek is taller than Grandpa Litterell now. OOH, take that Sooner hat off!

Hi Ho Silver..

My daughter thinks it is funny to make the most hideous faces... very cute indeed.

The fake cow milking booth. One of our must do's of the fair.

First stop was of course the elephant ear booth. They are getting fancy this year with a backdrop to take your pics. Whatever... remember when elephant ears were 75 cents? Now I think we paid $6.75. Inflation.

Grandpa Litterell made a surprise visit this week and we all had a nice visit. It was only for a couple of days, but we made it work. He took Ella for a quick spin around the fair (She has to visit the milkin' booth every year). Then it was off to Dereks football game, followed by dinner out to Pizza. The highlight of the visit was him taking Chuck to the Husky Oklahoma football game so that Chuck could watch firsthand his team getting punished by a very good Sooner team. They even got to sit in the Oklahoma section as Chuck proudly wore his purple and gold and had insults tossed at him the entire day. He took it like a man though. In his dreams the Huskies will again rise to the top...

P.S. I really hate going to Walmart, but they had Pony rides- how could we pass it up?

First Day of School.

2008-09-10T09:27:00.000-07:00

The kids went off to school and we are all excited about that. I have taken a first day of school pic of Taylor every year since he started, so it is fun to continue that tradition. This year's pic of Tay is pretty special. For once, he smiled as a teenager and it makes me laugh.. When you guys actually have teenagers, you will understand my joy! Ella is so excited to be able to ride the bus- finally. I am liking it too as all I have to do is stand on my front porch and the bus stops about 50 feet away. Nice...

Derek remains elusive about his first day of school pic- he leaves the house at about 6:30 am to walk to school with his friends, so I have not been able to catch him. I think they stop at Winco on their way to grab lunch. Winco is where all the kids hang out. They are obsessed with it in fact- something about 60 cents for a 2 liter of soda. All of the kids are liking our new house as they have so many friends to hang out with. If you ask Chuck and I, we will tell you there are too many kids to hang out with, but that is our problem.

Finally!

2008-09-05T21:36:00.000-07:00

So, when you are the wife of a landscaper, you get to see him create really cool things like waterfalls and such, and always wonder when you will get your very own. Well, after much begging, I got my own little waterfall. I think it is so cute, small, but cute. It is for sure the smallest that Chuck has ever done, but it fits our yard. I love it, and I think I have fulfilled one of the feng shui requirements of running water.

It's an all meat party.

2008-09-01T20:54:00.000-07:00

It was Lonnie's b-day today. He is the big 40! In his honor, we allowed him to enjoy and all meat party. I did end up stopping by the store and buying a loaf of french bread and some ready made salads, but besides that, it was a MEATFEST! Yum, but my insides are going to pay dearly. OOH and I had to throw in a pic of baby Margot. She is the sweetest, and most fun baby I've been around in a while and soooo cute. And sooooo dainty. She is almost 5 months, and tiny! I did not think the McIntire gene could do tiny, or dainty, or petite. Cute, Cute, Cute.

Vegas Baby...

2008-08-26T21:19:00.000-07:00

This photo is a little blurry, but so were we...

Chuck and I survived Vegas. It was a lovely 105 degrees which really thaws out us Washingtonians! I had a fantastic time getting away for a couple of days. There were two highlights to my trip. First being the dinner we ate at Emerils. We decided to indulge with the Chef's tasting menu. If you have never done one of these, they bring you about six courses of food. By the third, I was taking two bites and passing my plate to my husband because I knew I would never last if I cleaned each plate. The food was amazing, and by the last course I was begging for them to stop. Chuck will not let food go to waste, so I think he was pretty miserable by the time we got done. A delightful miserable though.

Next, my fantastic husband took me on a shopping spree to my favorite stores. I cannot get enough of the mall there. We ended up having to lug four bags of clothes onto the plane. Shopping is amazing therapy!

Oh, as we left The Venetian, Chuck ran into Jessica Simpson and he got a little friendly with her. I'm not a hater though- He's all mine.

Lakefair fun

2008-07-21T10:06:00.001-07:00

We had a nice break at Lakefair this year, and it brought the HOTNESS which was better than last years rain for sure. Let's see, so many people to visit this week- my little sister is in town, and we got to hang out for a while. We went to the high school battle of the bands- the kids did not seem too excited for that. Ooh, Nicci and Michelle stopped by the boat. Nicci looks so good- she is a Cali girl for sure! Michelle, you look good too! No slights here. We had a nice visit over a couple of brewski's. OH- and my fascinating thing of the weekend- I saw a bobcat on a leash. Kind of weird. This was in a pretty crowded parking lot, and the lady made the comment, "she's not that friendly." Good to bring your 'not friendly' bobcat to a crowded environment with lot's of small children. Also, Shad was in town with his band Hellrancho. It was nice to visit with him, screaming over a LOUD opening band. Kind of awkward in a make you feel weird and old kind of way. His band was quite good though. Mudhoney and Motorhead happily blended together. Chuck was extremely happy to be there. Pun intended! Happy to volunteer to leave and walk Katie to her car. What a cute preggo lady! I'm thinking the bun in oven was feeling the same as Chuck. Anyways, Nic, we will have to visit more when we decide to make the Cali drive.

Happy 4th! We have all our didgets!

2008-07-05T12:13:00.000-07:00

I am happy to report that after much blowing of things up, all of my children have all of their fingers and toes intact! It has been a successful 4th of July! One note about the economy- when Chuck went to the tribe to get his fireworks this year, he got the same pack that he does every year, The Thunderchief, it was cleverly packed smaller and the guy was not negotiating on price- at all!. The fuel prices are far reaching- even when buying illegal fireworks! What are we to do? We did have a good time in our new neighborhood. I cannot believe the amount of fireworks that we witnessed. They went on until 1 am. The only bad thing is my old dog Max just sat with his head in the corner all night- it was pitiful. Poor guy!

Also, Ella has a new friend- Tyanna who just moved in next door. They have been like two peas in a pod since day one. I really like the little girl, however, she comes with about 5 big and little brothers and sisters. In addition, we just can't shake her. If you open the front door, her and her clan will be waiting on the front porch like strays- "Can we come in? Can I spend the night? Where are you going? Can Ella play? Do you have any ice cream?" At all times of the day- there will be six kids in our front yard. It is all I can do to keep Chuck from being the grumpy old bastard on the block screaming "all you kids get the F off my yard!" We have been trying to set some kind of boundaries, but it is hard because they are really nice little kids and it is rare to find playmates that are not too annoying. Their parents are the types to just kick the kids outside to play, and we are micro managers that watch Ella every moment of her existence- and we have otter pops... I was always told to never feed strays. I think that is my problem.

Check it out.

2008-06-18T12:18:00.000-07:00

For a girl with curly hair, THIS is a minor miracle. Only my hair dresser can do it, but it is nice for a day. If I was to try this at home, I end up looking like Roseanna, Roseanne Danna of SNL.

Baby Baby Baby, Baby Baby Baby...

2008-06-18T12:12:00.000-07:00

Have you seen a prettier baby for a while ??? Shhhhh- do not comment on the bald head. He probably does not know it's there.

Here she is_ Margot Ayn 2 months old.

Where did I find this?

2008-06-10T21:57:00.000-07:00

After my grandmas fire a few years ago, I found some boxes with pictures and quickly packed them in my garage without really looking at them- until now... We have been arranging the garage in the new house and cleaning everything up and look what I found. I think this one is from my 8th grade graduation dance. Look who was there. What a cutie patootee- and she's with the object of my obsession. Nicci, why were you there? I can't remember??? There are more good ones where this came from too.

Simply titled....MAN AND HIS CAT

2008-06-05T18:06:00.000-07:00

Jack Bazil slipped out the door yesterday and we we're all scarred that he would not come back. I found him chasing birds up the street and brought him home. I even caught Chuck having a moment with him today. Our best fun lately has been giving the cat fresh cat nip and watching him go crazy. Yes, we are easily amused.

Ella, Dad will take you out!

2008-05-25T14:20:00.000-07:00

The slide is fun at the Excaliber, when it's open...

Day one- Let's get the hell outta here!

2008-05-25T14:17:00.000-07:00

Waiting for the plane at Sea-tac. Everyone was excited. When we got to Vegas, it was hot- for one day to be exact. The kids got the use the pool and the slide only a couple of times. We had lots of fun and needed relaxation.

Derek and Ella at the pool- having fun. It was so windy that the chairs were being lifted up and carried away, but still hot.

Taylor catchin' rays.

The M&M factory is always a hit. Ella did eat a pound of them and had a big tummy ache for a while. I think it was the new flavor- Cherry. Tasted like cough syrup, Yuck.

Day 2- All around town

2008-05-25T14:07:00.000-07:00

Chuck needs to audition.

The new Palazzo hotel is pretty nice.

Derek and the "Governator"

Cingular Bars...

Day 2. Continued- Ella's got a grill

2008-05-25T13:43:00.000-07:00

So Ella got a grill out of a sucker and she gave us her "gangsta pose" for about an hour for each picture. I thought I would pee my pants it was so funny. She is crazy.

Day 3 Part one- Hoover Dam is Cool

2008-05-25T13:30:00.000-07:00

Check it out- they are building a new bridge that will now make it so that you will not drive over the dam.. We don't want the terrorists blowing up the dam and flooding California!

Lake Mead - We decided when we come back, we are going on a rafting trip. Looked like so much fun.

My Abbey Road...

This is the best. Watch closely- These little guys were hanging out on the cliffs behind the dam. I can't believe how tame.

ALMOST to the Grand Canyon- we settled for a Taco Bus and Pony ride.

2008-05-25T12:58:00.003-07:00

Day three was a grand adventure for sure. Our mission to see the Grand Canyon failed due to lack of research. The closest point of the Grand Canyon is the West rim of course. Only a one and a half hour drive. This is where the glass bridge is located that goes out over the canyon. Not many people know about this, and for good reason. Most, including the Brady Bunch, view the Grand Canyon from the South rim, just above Flagstaff. This was a five hour drive though. We did not not want to go that far, so we decide to go the the West Rim. Yes, everyone we asked either did not know what we were talking about, or told us we should go to the South Rim. No way, we just want to drive right up to the edge and take a quick peek and return to the hotel. Famous last words... Just over the Hoover dam, the drive takes you through no-whereville, taking a turn onto a 17 mile dirt road into a Indian Reservation. The tribe owns the land on the entire West rim. Just prior to getting to the canyon, you run into a parking lot. This parking lot is just shy of being able to see anything. You must pay $20 bucks to park- fine with us.... then you find out how much it will to "view" the canyon- Helicopter ride for $280 each, or tour bus for $80 each and then manditory buffet dinner at $50 each, skywalk glass bridge for $30 each, (no pictures allowed of the canyon as you must purchase them) How can you sell pictures of the Grand Canyon??? Chuck was so mad we actually turned around and went back. He said it was the principle of it... I laughed so hard!! Oh well, we had plenty of adventures that day. The canyon has eluded us but we will be back. The only family in the world who would let a Taco Bus upstage the Grand Canyon.

Absolutely, Chucks favorite part of our trip- The little Taco bus in the middle of no-where that served up these babies. I have to say- in the middle of a desert, not bad at all.

This is what you come upon when you turn off the main road to make your way to the Grand Canyon. 17 miles of nasty gravel road. I noticed that most cars turned back. We pressed on...

The road to no-where took us right through the Joshua tree forest. I noticed these cool pods on the tree and made Chuck pull over and pick one. Yes, I did smuggle it back, through the state line checkpoint and in my luggage. I am going to try and plant it and then Washington State will become riddled with scraggly Joshua trees and quickly become a desert- It's all my master plan.

Taylor's enthusiasm for the ranch was just overflowing.

Derek made a new friend who kept trying to bite him.

We may have come short on the Grand Canyon, but Ella always seems to luck out on the horse rides. In the middle of the 17 mile dirt road, there was this cool little ranch that was by reservation only, but the owner set Ella up with a horse ride. This kid has all the luck.

The capper was this amazing Burger Chuck had at the Boulder Cafe in Boulder City on the way home. Yummy place to eat in a cute town.

Day 4- Wandering the streets.

2008-05-25T12:47:00.000-07:00

Just after Chuck told Ella the monkey grabbed her butt. She wanted nothing to do with it at that point.

Day 5 wasting time, we stopped by the Flamingo. I think we decided that is where we will stay for the adults only trip in August. Chuck was pretty fond of the topless pool that can be seem directly across from the Rapid Roulette table ( His new favorite game). Ella found some little friends. Very cute little guinne hens (sp?). Basically we let the kids run around all day until party night for the adults kicked in. We are real hard core- Spent dinner at Emerils new place Table 10, which had astonishing food! UMmm, that Lobster pot pie was amazing..... then we had a few drinks, and fed the slot machines tons of money. This trip to Vegas, we were losers!

Day 5- Ready to go home!!!

2008-05-25T12:45:00.001-07:00

2:00 in the morning at Sea Tac was actually warmer than our last day in Vegas. Long trip- tired kids. Now it's time to catch up on homework.

Little League is Fun- Adding to Nicci's Post

2008-05-16T12:39:00.000-07:00

So I just read Nics post about Owen and Little League. That is such a fun age for baseball! Just wait until they get about 12 and 13- they actually can really play and it gets exciting! At Owen's age, we used to get excited over a walk (Hey, he got on base :) ) Taylor went a whole season without a hit back then, but he got on base almost every time with a walk and boy could he steal bases! Just doin' his part!!

Derek is in the 13 and 14 year old division now and here is my pain. It is great to watch, but I have to say so little league compared to Centralia! Also, the parents drive me freakin nuts. First, there is the parent that is standing behind the plate telling each one of our kids, "Don't swing at the first pitch- take a look at it." and every kid listened to him as the first pitch went by- always a strike. When I watch a game, I have to worry about my husband giving a beat down to some idiot parent the whole time as they all try to coach our kid.

The best part are the mom's in the crowd. Favorite quote, "We just want this to be fair for all the boys, and fun." Who cares if little Johnny sucks and commits 10 errors in a row- he really wants to be short stop. F- that , stick his ass in Right field dammit! I want to see my kids team win. Mom's these days are creating a bunch of sissy's!! (Not directed at you Nic!!) I specifically remember in Centralia witnessing a bench clearing brawl at Wheeler field and the parents standing up and cheering it on! Those were the days!

OK, there is my venting session. Till tonight when I have to watch Derek's team give away a late inning lead just because the worst kid on the team thinks its a good time to learn to pitch.

How pretty is this?

2008-05-10T13:40:00.000-07:00

Wow, my husband has talent. I think his waterfalls are quite nice. This is the latest- he can really pack them into small spaces. You would not know how hard it is to get the right flow and no leaks. I love it that he found something that actually gives him a creative outlet. I believe we all have a creative side whether it be painting, cooking or decorating. This is Chuck's artsy fartsy coming out. Don't tell him that though... The coolest thing is that it makes his customer's so freaking happy. It feels good to have a profession that gives people such satisfaction.

Sufferin' Succatash...and waterfalls

2008-04-21T19:09:00.000-07:00

So, Ella finally pulled out the front tooth that has been loose for a while. I love the crazy eyes she has in this pic.

Chuck and I completed these two waterfalls for a customer today. I think they turned out pretty nice. We sure are getting more orders for these lately. I hope they keep rollin' in.

Pretty girls...

2008-04-17T20:51:00.000-07:00

I think Renee took this picture when she was up for a visit and emailed it to Taylor. I just found it and thought these two are so pretty. Ella loves her Auntie Renee and has so much fun when she is around. What a lovely girl Renee is becoming and we can't wait to see her this summer.

Taking time to take a breath...

2008-04-12T13:01:00.000-07:00

My life in a nutshell - let me tell you all what I have been doing for the last two months.

Driving down the road one day with my husband we decide to move- in the span of about 5 minutes... Sporadic you say???? No, not at all... Current house too small plus too many kids plus youngest son is now living with us and sleeping in youngest daughters pretty pink bunk bed plus three kids too close for comfort plus infanticide on a teenager might be an option equals NEED BIGGER HOUSE!!

Here goes.

Find a house, try to move eight years of stupid unnecessary purchases from old house, try to clean old house and decide that all of those years of putting stuff away in closets to make home appear to be clean was a mistake. Note to self- less is more. While moving try to sell houses and keep up with clients. Current big sale in Bellevue- got to sell that house! Help husband with his business pouring concrete by day, picking up kids from school and running them around because I am a taxi driver- one of my hats is a turban. Run home, shower off concrete, drive to Bellevue to show my listing, Yeah, finally a buyer!! Repeat this scenario every day for a few weeks.... OOPS, still inbetween two homes a month later- Wow, we really are slobs- keep telling myself this every day... Add to that both teenage boys have decided that this is now the time to screw off at school on a daily basis and both the junior high and high school are calling me about every other day. My kids are suddenly juvenile delinquents! Remember the infanticide- now on my list as an actual option. Can't let that one slip to Vice principal. Might not think it's funny. Dinner? What's for dinner? My kids particularly like Apple Jack's and if they are really lucky Little Ceasar's is a fav.

Repeat this scenario daily for a couple of months. I think I have driven to Bellevue about six times in the last week to get my deal done. Inspections are a BITCH! Oh, add on to that a estimate of about $5500 for electrical repair for my seller- There goes my commission as I give money away to make it work. Who says realtors aren't nice?

After I get real estate deals done, sit down for a rare breather with my husband the other night. Things are pretty peaceful and I feel like I am not going to have a nervous break down and my husband says as he looks around our new living room..." Wow, this place really looks like a big box, it's so plain." AAAARRRRRGGGHHHH!!! Where is that steak knife?

Happy Valentines Day

2008-02-13T20:47:00.000-08:00

Ella had a fun day today as she got to go to a Valentines Little Princess dance party. It was so fun to watch them as they were taught how a proper little princess is light on her feet and seems to float across the floor as she walks. As we were waiting for the party to start, check out the clip- my daughter is the only one that kicked off her shoes to play racquetball in her ball gown. By the time the class started, she was pretty sweaty. All of the girls were so cute. There was a Snow White, two Belle's, a Cinderella, and a Barbie dress. Ella was sizing up the other girls before class and said to me, " I am definitely the prettiest dressed here." Hum, no lack of confidence there. My favorite part was when the instructors tried to teach them how to curtsey (sp?)

You must Divulge...

2008-01-29T22:47:00.000-08:00

New Challenge...

So I'm bored. Oh Well. Make a list of you querkiest (is that a word?), on the verge of embarrasing, guilty pleasure. Here is my short list.

1. I have a strange obsession with late night chili dogs smothered in sour cream, cheese, and jalepenos. Probably four nights per week. I do however use fat free chili and sour cream. I do recall Michelle telling me she was on a strict hot dog diet and if I remember right it was more than two per day. I thought that was funny until my own chili dog obsession started.

2. I can't get enough of the following shows: Real Housewives of the OC, The Hills, Newport Beach - although Laguna Beach was better. Yes, I can feel my I.Q. drop as I watch.

3. I log into perezhilton.com daily.

4. The other night, I had a sweet tooth and could not choose between a bowl of cereal or ice cream so I actually made the following: vanilla ice cream topped with Reeses Peanut Butter puff cereal, milk and since I did not have any chocolate sauce, I sprinkled chocolate Slim Fast on top. UUM UUM GOOD.

I know as I think about this, my list is going to grow. To be continued.

Snow Day.

2008-01-28T13:27:00.000-08:00

The kids were so excited this morning for the snow.

Winter Wonderland

2008-01-28T13:18:00.000-08:00

I was totally shocked when I opened the front door this morning and we had 5 inches of snow. School was closed, the kids were running around freaking out, and we decided to take them sledding. Why is it that you cannot find proper winter clothes when you need them. Mid summer, gloves and hat will be everywhere. Snow hits and you are telling the kids to put socks on their hands. Anyways, we were able to coax Chuck on the slope- I love it.

Too much is just too much

2008-01-16T16:11:00.001-08:00

So I made the cake. Start to finish, there was at least 6 hours of preparation time. Combining this and the fact that it weighed about 15 pounds and was a foot high, I will not be making it again. That piece in the picture is on a full size dinner plate.

It is delicious, but I came to the conclusion that the human body is not designed to handle this amount of caloric intake. Makes the tummy a little queesy.

So, let this be a lesson, too much of a good thing is just too much!

How I met my perfect cake...

2008-01-12T12:16:00.000-08:00

Chuck and I took Taylor and a couple of friends to a concert in Seattle last night and since we had time to kill waiting for him to get out, we ate dinner, shopped and ran into the love of my life dessert. First of all, I have two food must haves in my life: Cheesecake (thanks to Mom), and Chocolate (thank you Mom again.) Give me these two things or any combo of the two, and I am happy. I will give you my top three examples. Quite often if I do not choose cheesecake, you will find me whipping up brownies topped with vanilla ice cream, or my cake fav is German Chocolate cake with that carmel, coconut topping. YUM! My husband tells me I am trying to kill him with the food I like to eat so we have compromised- I fix lots of scrumptious food- and he takes us to the gym. Fair trade I think.

Back to the love of my life...After we ate dinner at PF Changs- good stuff too, we walked around for about an hour- enjoyed some shopping- and then I knew I was unstuffed enough to search for dessert. Ah ha! Up to 6th and Pine I see a Cheesecake Factory. I run towards my beacon of hope. After we get seated and take a look at the menu, Chuck decides on some nice Coconut Cream Pie Cheesecake- sounds good enough, but I have not been moved yet- until I see my destiny. Titled something like, "Carls Crazy Cake" The description is, " Layers of Brownie, rich fudgy cake, coconut caramel frosting, fudgy frosting and cheesecake. Could it be true? All three of my favorites wrapped into one! It had me at hello...It had me at hello...

When the waitress came to take our order, I had a simple question. Not to sound like a PIG, I shyly asked, "Could this cake handle some vanilla ice cream on it?" Her expression at first told me, "I don't think you need to handle some vanilla ice cream on it." but her response was, "I have heard that ice cream is good with chocolate cake." "Ok, ice cream it is," I said.

When it arrived, I know why she did not think I needed ice cream. It is also topped with pure heavy whipped cream. You know, the kind that is just on the verge of butter. I could only eat half of it due to pure calorie and fat overload, but I have finally met the best dessert ever. I told Chuck that he can not bring me back to that place more than once per year or he will be married to a 500 pounder. I have, however, figured out in my mind how they made it, and I will be attempting to duplicate it at home, with all the damn ice cream I please!

My husband accepts that I am a slob

2008-01-10T09:45:00.000-08:00

This is exactly why Chuck and I are a perfect match. While I was at work yesterday, I called home in the early morning, and could tell that he was on a cleaning rampage. Now, I will be the first to admit- he can clean circles around me. This means that instead of shoving things in closets, he really CLEANS. So, by the time I got home- hours later, this is what my closet looks like. He even organized my shoes! This may not look too fantastic to you, but if you saw it before, my shoes fanned out from the closet for about 20 feet and if I dared to pick out an outfit, I had to be careful not to twist an ankle. I truly appreciate my husband for accepting me for who I am and not nagging on me. Also, I slept like a baby in my perfectly clean room last night and that is a rare thing. This means that clutter can enter our brains at all times and is not to be trusted! I need to take a lesson from this and clean the rest of the house. Ya Right!

Challenge for the Ladies...including Lon

2008-01-08T15:09:00.000-08:00

I have a challenge for us all- let's see if you can do it. I want you to think of your right now, top ten things you like. These can only be things that have to do with yourself.. not for your kids, or your husbands, or anyone else, and it has to be something that you've done or used etc in the last 6 months. Let's see how hard this is to complete. I think it will make us all realize that we need to pay attention to ourselves more.

MY LIST

1. Victoria Secrets Lip Pumper- You have to get it- I LOVE IT. Glossy, stays a while and tastes good. YUM.

2. LAS VEGAS Everything about it. Specially the food.

3. Extra Hot 2 pump non-fat mocha's at Starbucks with the Whip Cream. Is there a reason the barista looks funny at me when I order this?

4. Spending time with my Mom with no kids around. She pointed out that it doesn't always have to be grandma time. I know I need to do much more, but she is fantastic and so wise.

5. Seeing my sister Renee. What a great young lady she has turned into.

6. Perfect fitting jeans.

7. Working out almost every day at the Y. Now this started as me begrudgingly going with my obsessed husband, but I am starting to like it. I feel better after my workout. Thank you hubby. (I am kind of on the fence about this one- do I really like it???)

8. This one really makes me a nerd- I like to play slot machines on POGO at night. It is a mindless thing that only requires me to push a button and not make one conscious decision. Helps me to unwind.

9. A clean and organized house. Not that I have one, but when I do, it really gives me a sense of peace. How can I get one more often???

10. This is getting hard.... and looking back at my list, I am a boring person. I think I am going to work hard at finding things to add to my list. OK, I love love love love good Thai food.

They say its your birthday...

2008-01-06T21:11:00.000-08:00

It has been a year since I said this very same thing: HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MICHELLE AND NICCI!!! This is my favorite time of year because you both catch up with me- and we can spend at least part of the year the same age. So, enjoy 36- it has been great.

Christmas Fun Followed by Barfing

2007-12-16T11:01:00.001-08:00

So we had a fun time last night. The idea was some Christmas cheer, but it ended with some Christmas horror! Ella and I wanted to make a gingerbread house which was fun. We went to the store and bought loads of candy and a pre-baked gingerbread house- yes, I'm a cheater! Ella had been complaining of a sore stomach for most of the day, but it did not stop her from celebrating the night away. We had gum drops and chocolate, sweet candies, and - on top of that I baked chocolate chip cookies.

I think the finished product was cute and Ella digs that kind of thing. All along, she did keep mentioning that her tummy kind of hurt. However, she did keep stuffing her face with a variety of candy. What could that hurt, I thought. You only live once. Oh, my punishment was coming.

Chuck has been working nights, so Ella has been getting to sleep with mom- along of course with Jack Bazil. Before Ella nodded off, we were having fun torturing the cat with the Santa hat. He is such a good sport. Shortly thereafter, Ella had fallen asleep and I was on the phone with Michelle. As she lay asleep, there was a volcano brewing. All of a sudden, Ella, while sleeping, started to hurl! I had to excuse myself from my phone call to try my best to contain the flow. When all was done, I had grabbed numerous blankets to try and catch the excess, my guess was that a blanket is easier to wash than the carpet.

As soon as Ella woke up and bathed, she said, "I feel great now. " Her and Jack cuddled up and went back to bed while I was left with clean up patrol. A child's puke fest is a true test of how much we love our children. Unconditional love is cleaning up your kids vomit while holding back the dry heaves!! AHHHH Christmas Fun.

Bling Bling

2007-12-04T17:49:00.001-08:00

My son asked to get his ears pierced. This is a time that you find out really what kind of parent you are. I did not find it too offensive, I guess there are worse things out there. He could have wanted a bone through his nose or eyebrow, or unmentionables. Also, regular pierced ears are for sure better than the kids getting big fat round circles in their ears! I do not think ears were meant to look through. Anyways, I thought it was funny that as a choice for the earrings, they had of course little silver balls, little diamonds, and big, bigger and bigger diamonds. (Crystals of course.) Taylor chose the biggest, diamonds (crystals) of course because that's how he rolls. I tried to explain that in life, if it is not real, it is tacky, but he wanted none of that. If anyone can remember what new earings are like, specially when you sleep, I'm sure the big rocks will not be too much fun. OUCH. I must be a semi-cool parent, because I did not put up a fuss.

Dreaming of a White Christmas

2007-11-24T12:19:00.001-08:00

So here is Chuck's latest waterfall. So proud of his creativity! I'm the wife- why don't I get one?

Since Ella put up our Christmas tree, Jack Bazil will not leave it alone. He was even taunting her through the window and playing with it.

Have you ever tried to get a cat to pose? Not an easy task. Ella and I tried for a long time for this one. He might not look like it, but he was about ready to tear our faces off.

So why did we decorate our tree this early? I would like to think that my Martha was coming out. Actually, we did a garage cleaning yesterday. My garage was downright unsanitary. Can anyone else identify? I don't just mean cluttered. UNSANITARY!!!! Calling all vermin... come on in and set up shop in my garage because I will feed and keep you comfy cozy all winter. Anyways, I knew I should do something before that happened. While cleaning it, we stumbled (literally) across the Christmas stuff that we packaged up and tossed out there last year. Yes, it had been a year since I last cleaned it. So, I figured I would just bring it back in the house and go for it. One good thing is Ella pretty much did everything! Oh I love love love daughters. They just ooze the art of housekeeping. She likes to clean and decorate. Now if I could just fine tune it and keep it going. Now, my garage is spiffed up and clean- I think I will move out there.

HALLOWEEN MEANS GOOD TIMES!

2007-10-31T19:34:00.000-07:00

We have had a swell time here for Halloween. The morning did start out with me almost forming a picket line at Ella's school. I did not want to embarrass my child though. Believe it or not, my child could not wear her costume to school. THIS IS AGAINST MY CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS OR SOMETHING!!!! (Nic- do kids get to wear costumes in Cali? If so, I am really there!) I did not even have any warning. Ella came home last night and when I was getting her costume ready, she said, "Oh no, we can't wear costumes, we get to wear our slippers to school." What?? Slippers SUCK! She just doesn't know what she's missing. If I would have known, I could have at least dressed her in Orange and Black head to toe as some sort of silent protest. Stupid @#$%^& people who have nothing better to do than make our kids so generic that not one of them will have one ounce of creativity in their being! Hey, look at me- I'm not too screwed up, and I dressed up for Halloween! OK- maybe don't look at me, you know what I mean! I'm done with my rant.

My day brightened up after school when Ella and Taylor got ready for trick or treating! I loved Ella's costume. We originally thought she was a pirate princess - then we settled on gypsy!

Taylor cracks me up- for school he was the Fresh Prince of Bel Air. He was so proud of his neon sweat suit he found at the Salvation Army. Then, he and a friend were Gay Ghosts. Or shall I be p.c. and say "Happy Ghosts." I am proud of his imagination. He had thought that he was too old to go trick or treating this year, but at the last minute, he decided that as a ghost, no one could be sure of his age and he really really wanted a big bag of candy again just one last time.

GOOD TIMES!!!!

Doin the Puyallup- Eating for six hours.

2007-10-03T15:11:00.000-07:00

As a tribute to my town, I thought I would let you know how our trip to the Puyallup fair went this year. Ella's birthday party was partly held at the fair- lucky girl. My dad was in town and we decided it would be fun to do the Puyallup! He is desperately afraid of crowd's, but I tempted him with a fair burger. We would like to tell ourselves we went to let our kids go on some rides and have fun, but to be truthful, I go to see how much I can possibly stuff into my face, and in search of whatever might be a new addition to the lineup. Last year they introduced frozen cheesecake on a stick- TO DIE FOR!!! First thing we do- buy a Myers Fair Burger. OK, we think, but not the greatest. Next, a bbq beef sandwich and corn on the cob. YUM. Next, a 13 pack of scones- a fair must have to bring home for breakfast and to keep your blood sugar up while waiting in line for the roller coaster. Since the first burger wasn't too good, why not another one? Chuck and my dad downed another one- me, I'm saving myself for an elephant ear. Oh, I see a Krusty Pup- have to have one of those! A bottomless alien mug of lemonade too. I did share it though. Finally, after eating two burgers and still not finding the right one, dad and Chuck see the Earthquake burgers- that is the big one that fills an entire plate. Oh that's right, that's the good one. Chuck looked ill, but as not to look like a weener in front of my dad, he orders one. AHHH young samurai- you know not who you are up against! He has not found out my Dad is a bottomless pit. While they were consuming the Earthquake burger, I ordered a Philly steak sandwich. Come on, it was there... I took two bites and could not finish it. My husband, who cannot waste anything, ate the rest. Now he was blue! But he had not had his yearly Elephant ear. Yes, on our way out of the fair, he found a stand and ordered one. Needless to say, he was really miserable.

I find it funny that Taylor's obsession during the fair is the Fleischkiechle fried beef turnover. This year he asked the ladies to pose in a picture for him. He will buy a whole bag of them and bring home for breakfast and lunch at school. Oh, the fair- good thing it's only once per year. I still think Nicci's chicken sandwich on a crispy creme sounds good!

Birthday Girl

2007-09-27T15:42:00.000-07:00

Ella was queen for a day at school- because of her birthday, but she felt the need to carry it way into the weekend too.

Quinn jammin.

We all had fun at Ella's 6th birthday party.
Grandpa visited from Alaska and we were all glad to see him.

Ella had lots of fun with Grandpa on his visit- She told him he needed more hair and gave him a corn silk toupee.

Star Search

2007-09-27T15:18:00.000-07:00

Quinn is a rock star on Guitar Hero.

First day of High School

2007-09-21T14:04:00.000-07:00

Oh my gosh- I have a high schooler! Taylor has started 10th grade this year. I can't believe it. Hey - check out the shoes. All of the kids wear the old Jordan's that look just like the first one's from- 1989??? Funny huh? Taylor is a great kid and I am very proud of him for making my parenting job easy! It must really suck to be a kid of parents who were pretty sneaky as kids. We know all the tricks! I think Taylor realizes this and doesn't even try to pull one over on me. Or, he just knows I am a over-protective worry-wart freak and saves me from any freaking out! Nonetheless, he is a super easy kid.

Dance Fever!

2007-09-01T12:57:00.000-07:00

Brings back memories of cheering for the G-Men. Didn't Nicci cheer for the Lumbermen?

Go Strawberries!

2007-09-01T12:46:00.000-07:00

Ella at Cheer Camp- She is in the back, (Taller One.)

Summer Fun

2007-09-01T12:10:00.000-07:00

Taylor likes the quad too- Quinn maybe not so much!

Ella had Cheerleading camp last week. Just 5 year olds in her group. It was very fun to watch. They even did a dance. Cute Times.

Ella and her pal Jack Bazil. He now has been trained to ride the quad. Priceless.

Lon, Kelly, and Quinn visited at the Boat. New News- they are having another BABY! Or, is Lonnie having the baby???? Sympathy pounds! I'm the sister, I can say that. Notice the big box of Emporers Palace- Thanks to Kelly and her Palace connections! YUM!

Quinn loves Ella. She does not appreciate the mauling though. He just wants to tackle her.

Ella and Daddy getting dirty.

Boating Fun

2007-08-19T16:38:00.001-07:00

Funny story behind this one: Ella was really brave and wanted to go in the little boat by herself. So, she got in and we let her out about 10 feet and tied it off to our boat. Within seconds, the rope came untied from the boat and she was set asail by herself. Within a split second of realizing that she was loose, she started to scream and cry. Of course we had to rub it in and wave goodbye to her. Eventually Dad had to jump in and swim after her. Does anyone realize how cold the Puget Sound is? Both Chuck and Ella were unhappy by the time they got back aboard.

Taylor working on his tan. Check out the sweet hair. Taylor is going into 10th grade this year. A big high schooler.

For some reason I think of the "White Wedding" Video when I see Ella in her headdress.

VIVA LAS VEGAS!

2007-05-22T12:42:00.000-07:00

Photography by Ella at the M&M movie.

AAARRGGGHH with some dracula teeth thrown in.

Notice Taylor is still wearing jeans and it's only 100 degrees

Ella and Daddy love the pool.

We all had a great time in Vegas. Taylor got to bring his longtime friend Jordan and Ella just had a great time by herself as she always does. The boys actually really played good with her and kept her entertained. I have to say that she is much tougher than them as she can walk for miles as they would just complain about how tired and hot they were. It was great to have really hot weather to unthaw us. When we came home, we were met by rain and cool wind --- booooo!

Stay OFF the Road.

2007-04-30T13:52:00.000-07:00

Taylor is about to be driving. Can you believe it? I am not too worried about him, because he is so responsible and laid back. He tells me he will not be in any hurry to get where he is going and that he will just be cruising his ride. Ya Right.

Do you know how much it is to insure a child? At least $300 per month. OUCH!

So, Chuck is excited to look for a car- we were thinking that a nice smaller pickup would be good. (Better gas mileage and one seat- will not fit many friends. ) So he and Taylor went to look at cars the other day. After seeing some nice trucks Taylor informs him that he needs an SUV because they have leather and great stereos or that he really likes BMW's. Chuck came home kind of bummed and tells me this. I said, and you told him where to stick it right? I guess it did not occur to Chuck that the kid does not need to be spoiled all the time.

What will you do???

2007-04-28T19:32:00.000-07:00

Here is a question for all of you that do not have teenagers yet. You think you are so smart, but just you wait... So last night, it is 11:00 pm. I am trying to sleep and my cell phone signals that I have a text message. Weird, I never get text messages. I look, and it is from Taylors girlfriend. Am I seeing things? I think I'm having a dream. As I read the first of three messages, She tells me that Taylor does not know she is texting me, but she would like to know if he can come to her house this weekend and attend her little brothers b-day party. As I lay there in a stupor, wondering what the hell is going on, I think back to when I was 15 and crushing on boys. All that I can recall is that I would have DIED before I ever asked a boys parents anything let alone even speak to them. What is happening? I think another woman is taking over MY son. I can't take it. So, I ignore the messages totally until I can talk to Taylor. The next morning I mention to him the text messages and he turned a slight color of green. He could not believe that she did it behind his back. I got the hint that he did not really want to go to this party, and just ignored the invite. Then she takes it in her own hands to get him there. I try to probe to see what he might do about it and he had no clue. I tried to explain to him that girls should be somewhat modest in their actions. Good God I feel old and it seems like my son has already turned into a typical man and lets his manhood be carried around in a purse. What to do?

HANG LOOSE

2007-02-15T14:05:00.000-08:00

I found this old picture of Lonnie when we went to Hawaii when we were kids. He had met a buddy while on our trip. I do not however, remember him actually surfing. WOW, check out those calves on him- even when he was young they were huge.

He and I were laughing the other day because Ella has two bottom teeth that are loose and he told me he remembers me losing a tooth in Hawaii. I told him that I remembered him chasing me to our hotel room, and I barely made it in the door and slammed it on his big toe and ripped his toe nail off. Then, for fear of a sure pummeling, I would not let him in- bloody toe and all until my Dad got back to the room. I had a nice laugh about that. Those were fun times.

Superbowl Fun

2007-02-10T22:09:00.000-08:00

Ella and Quinn had great fun during the Super Bowl. Kelly let Lonnie bring him up and we promised to watch him. He chased Ella around for hours - her on roller skates and Quinn with one slipper left on his little feet. She would run away screaming "Chucky's gonna get me" and Quinn would laugh and laugh. I thought for sure he would collapse at some point, but he kept going and going.

After a while, we thought we would play a joke on Mom, so we gave Quinn an empty beer bottle and took pictures. I was quite pleased that I caught one that actually looked drunk. I promptly emailed it to Kelly and told her not to worry, her son was in good hands. I really think it was the responsible Sister-in-law thing to do. Thanks to Lonnie for the GREAT Gumbo. I think we all ate way too much.

For Nicci

2007-02-02T15:29:00.000-08:00

This one's for Nicci- Taylor and Ella running on the beach in Newport last year. Insert O and C and you have great times. How I wish that we could just jump in the car and be at a warm beach. Probably it is our month of freezing, snow and wind storms that is talking, but I just want summer. Good Luck with your move. When we go to Disneyland we for sure have to visit. Also, we jump in the car and you are in Cali. in 17 hours. It can be the same for you to come and visit.

HAPPY B DAY TO NICCI AND MICHELLE!

2007-01-19T21:36:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys, happy birthday in 2007! Isn't it weird getting older? I do not have any issues, but is seems to go faster. It does help that our husbands are older because mine thinks I am so much younger than he is. I tell him he's a cradle robber. Makes me feel better. We do have 5 action packed years before the big 40 though. Let's enjoy it!!!!

We Love Cousin Quinn!!!

2006-12-14T14:03:00.000-08:00

Elmo tried to swallow Quinn's head for halloween, but he was just fine with it.

Santa all I want is a bunny

2006-12-10T19:19:00.000-08:00

When Ella visited Santa yesterday, she let him know that she wants a bunny for Christmas. He actually said OK. Obviously this Santa has it out for parents. I then had to let her know that our dog would probably eat the bunny and I thought it would be a bad idea.

I cannot hold a grudge against Santa though because he was so darn cute.

Birthday at "Martha Stewart" Myers House

2006-12-10T18:00:00.000-08:00

Ella attended Isabelle's birthday yesterday and her Mom pulled out all the stops. Deciding on a Christmas theme, she created this beauty of a Christmas Tree cake. Look at the tiny present detail on the cupcakes. First she started with letting each girl decorate a tree ornament, this was followed by party games, of which Maddy won most. (She is a ringer)

Next, "Martha" hired some kind of eccentric bird lady with a parrot to entertain the children. "Martha" sensed potential disaster and cut it short for fear of a bird attack. This was quickly diverted into a game of musical chairs. I think "Martha" was able to relax at this point as her party was going off without a hitch.

The girls did start getting a bit restless as they chanted "Yeah Isabelle, Yeah Isabelle" in anticipation of the Cupcakes and Presents. I think Martha was so brave to invite so many kids. My limit is about three. I really admire her bravery.

The day was saved by Mr. Stewart as he fed the hungry troops. Isabelle was so sweet and thoughtful as she opened each present she would give each girl a hug and a thank you. Obviously "Martha" has schooled her in proper etiquette.
The party was topped off by each child receiving a cute Christmas Tree ornament with their picture on it. It was obvious that a lot of planning had gone into this party and it was appreciated by all. Hats off to you, "Martha", you did a great job.

Pretty Girls

2006-12-09T21:58:00.000-08:00

Mom and Renee.

All I want for Christmas...

2006-12-08T22:52:00.000-08:00

Ella told a her Dad yesterday that Mom said it was OK if she got a bunny for Christmas. Of course I got in trouble until I told him that I had actually told her a bunny was not a good idea because our dog would munch it like she did the guinea pig.

Today at work she told a friend that she was getting a bunny for Christmas. I quickly told her " No, you are not." She then told me she was getting one because she is telling Santa the next time we go to the mall. That reminded me of two years ago when she wanted a pony. We got her this stuffed one and a cowboy hat. She was entirely satisfied then. I am not sure about that now... as they get older, it is much harder to fool them.

Boating fun.

2006-12-08T22:00:00.000-08:00

After catching every baby crab in the place, I like to kiss them goodbye before I throw them back. I think it is the danger of a possible nose piercing that does it for me. Yes, I'm a cutey pie after no shower and baking in the sun all day. Boating is fun. No phones, stuck in the middle of nowhere, nothing to do... if the cell phone does work, you can't do anything about it anyway..Good Times.

The Skipper and her first mate.

Ya, he looks like he's fishing, but how many fish have we actually caught?? It's not the fishing, it's the beer you can drink while fishing.

Ella looks like she enjoys fishing, but if she ever reels one up, she practically jumps out of the boat.

Halloween Fun

2006-12-08T21:51:00.000-08:00

The fairy is actually freezing - Early morning temp. does not make a difference to Mom.

Taylor and friend Jordan dressed as girlz for Halloween. However, by the time they actually left, they had piled on the clothes for warmth. They were not as brave as they were talking.

My husbands fun

2006-12-08T21:38:00.000-08:00

Landscape curbing is what he does most.

This is Chuck's latest waterfall that he built. He loves it- I think he has discovered a bit of artistic ability.

Dad, Quinn and Taylor

2006-12-04T22:41:00.000-08:00

WOW, that is a big head on Lonnie's minnie me!

Ella's favorite birthday present was her new friend Capt. Jack

2006-12-04T22:25:00.000-08:00

Brother and Sister

2006-12-04T22:18:00.000-08:00

HANG LOOSE

2006-12-04T22:06:00.000-08:00

Brother and Sister in Hawaii as wee ones. First of all, isn't that one in the flippers a boy? Second, the big one should be pummelling his sister about now.