The Kreative Life ~ Life in Photos

August 1, 2010

2010-08-01T20:27:00.000-05:00

Starting today, I will be integrating my daily photo blog into my main blog. Things will be a little different for awhile, as I adjust, but I hope you will bear with me throughout all the changes.

Thanks so much for visiting and leaving such wonderful comments these past two years. Your comments and kind words have kept me going and given me hope. I hope you will follow me over during my move.

Love you all!

July 31, 2010

2010-07-31T21:59:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for good friends and good times.

Dave and I had a great time today at Walker's Benefit Shootout for Autism. (Thanks for having us out Barry and Madonna! Hope the benefit was a success!)

I can't think of a better way to raise money for a good cause. Visiting with old friends, making new friends and throwing some lead down range.

After I downloaded my pictures this evening . . .

I found this one. Hubby must have snagged my camera while I was attempting to hit what I was aiming at. I'm pretty rusty, but DID manage to (mostly) hit what I was aiming for.

Dave and I both ended up bringing home some super cool prizes. Can't wait to try out my walking weights with the MACE (and pray to God that I don't mace MYSELF)! I'll let you know how THAT works for me.

I believe I'm going to try to crawl to bed now. I'm BEAT.

July 30, 2010

2010-07-30T22:21:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for big puffy white clouds and sleeping in.

Today was an extremely busy day. I had to get everyone up and ready to run errands this morning. A trip to the gun shop for primers, stopping by the bank for my mom, and a trip to Springfield to pick up my new glasses, before swimming lessons.

On the way back from Springfield, mom and I decided to stop by Fair Grove to check out a local flea market, since we had an hour to spare before swimming lessons.

This place was PACKED with treasures and I wish we'd have had more time to browse (without small children). Can you spot me in my new glasses in the above photo?

They're taking a little getting used to, since I decided to take a bit of a walk on the wild side.

I tried them on at the store several times. The first time I laughed out loud. But I liked the color, so I kept coming back to them.

Totally nerdy and not my style . . . but I think I like them.

They're growing on me.

My second pair is much more tame. I'm sad to say I have to buy little kid's frames to fit my face . . . but sometimes it DOES have it's perks.

Eli doesn't like my nerdy glasses, but I'm sure he'll get used to them soon.

Both kids passed their levels at swimming lessons, so they can move up next year. I'll be holding Eli back to level 2 again, just so he has another year to build up some strength. He was the "little kid" in class this Summer, but next year I see him really taking off!

After we got home I threw a little lead down range in an effort to practise for tomorrow's big benefit shoot. Hope I can hit what I'm aiming at tomorrow!

July 29, 2010

2010-07-29T21:54:00.000-05:00

Today, I'm thankful that I got a load of laundry and my run in, before Dave decided that I needed to go trout fishing with him and the kids.

Mom called right after I threw in the first load of laundry; wondering if I could come over and take some pictures of her flowers. So I ran over and got several nice shots. This little butterfly seemed to want it's picture taken too . . . so I obliged.

As soon as I got back home, we all had breakfast, and I jumped on the treadmill for a 20 minute random interval training, then ran a mile in 9 minutes and 45 seconds. I shaved 15 seconds off of my 10 minute mile! I'm starting to see where interval training is beneficial . . . I just HATE slowing down, once I get up to speed. All that stopping and starting wears me out.

After my run, I got everything packed up for swimming lessons later in the afternoon; got everyone showered and dressed to go fishing; and loaded up the Jeep with snacks and fishing gear.

Bayleigh really had a good time.

Eli got bored after about 2 minutes. So I casted and reeled for him, while he looked for bugs and splashed in the water at my feet.

I finally gave up on the trout, so I could take Eli exploring. (Doesn't he look enthusiastic about the whole process?!)

He was fascinated by the guy mowing the grass (just because he was riding on a tractor) . . . but even more so with the spider he found in the pavilion.

We'd just went back down to the river, when it started raining. So we came back to the pavilion and had a picnic lunch, while we watched it rain.

We all had to have little permits pinned to us, and as soon as we were finished fishing, that was the FIRST thing Eli wanted taken off.

And I'm sad to say that he's going through the above phase, of "NO MORE PICTURES, MOM!".

But I still managed to sneak a few.

I walked around taking some random photos of all the friendly fishermen/fisherwomen;

while Dave took the kids to see the baby trout.

It's always so pretty here.

And it was even prettier with the steam coming off the water after the rains.

We headed straight for swimming lessons after we left, and we managed to make it almost all the way through before it started to thunder.

If I can just make it through one more day of appointments and swimming lessons, a benefit shoot, and Sunday School class; next week's load is starting to look a little lighter. Will all the running ever end?!

July 28, 2010

2010-07-29T08:53:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for the lazy days of Summer, but I know they are quickly coming to a close!

As much as I like the spontaneous and relaxed schedule we've been keeping, I'm longing for my routines.

This has been a Summer of wet towels, bathing suits, sunscreen and water; and Dave thinks we have to be going somewhere non-stop with the kids. It seems like I haven't been home at all this Summer and the house is TRASHED from our comings and goings.

The rest of the week is packed with activities, too. And here I am, longing to get things back in order before school starts in THREE WEEKS.

I'm not even sure it can be done, but I'm going to give it my best effort! Wish me luck!

July 27, 2010

2010-07-28T21:41:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for accomplishments . . . small though they might be.

Another day of rushing around, trying to get laundry, dishes and housework caught up before hitting the road for swimming lessons again. It's a vicious cycle, but we've only got three more days of swimming lessons after today. Eli is going to be a FISH . . . if only he could grow gills. He wants to be under the water ALL the time and doesn't like to come up for air. I think he's starting to figure that part out, though. And Bayleigh jumped off the diving board and swam all the way back to the wall by herself. Little by little the kids are grasping swimming. I'm so proud of them both!

July 26, 2010

2010-07-28T21:31:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for acts of nature.

I had to do a lot of hurrying this morning, so I could get everyone where they needed to be, on time. Laundry, dishes . . . and my 30 minute run were squeezed in first. And then it was off to my mom's appointment. She had to go back in for a redo - on her yearly mammogram. Just down the road from our house there has been a momma deer with twins. I never seem to have the right lens on me, but today, when I saw them, I turned the Jeep around and went back for a few shots anyhow. The two little ones are standing right at the tree line, and they're just adorable.

After we got done with mom's appointment, we went to visit Dave at the Urgent Care Clinic (where the Jeep over-heated a bit); and then we headed off to swimming lessons (which got rained out). It looks like we'll be coming back on Friday for a make-up day.

After we got back home and had supper, we all went outside to pick up some rocks in the front yard. As we were working away . . . the B2 flew over. (I didn't have my zoom lens on this time either.)

We picked up rocks until the sun started going down, and then we picked some tomatoes from the garden for a little snack.

They were really yummy! I just wish there were some way to eat as many as the vine is producing! I guess the birds and wildlife will get their fair share, too.

July 25, 2010

2010-07-26T10:01:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for grace and mercy.

It seems like I'm always struggling and fighting to stay on the right path. I stumble and take a wrong turn now and again, but someone always finds me, helps me up and somehow leads me back where I need to be. For those who encourage, inspire and help me during my struggles . . . I thank you.

I guess I kind of feel like a salmon fighting it's way upstream. Except I never do seem to reach my destination. Always swimming and struggling to continue moving forward. I know the path that I strive to stay on, is the hardest and most tiring, but the rewards far out number any pain and suffering I might endure on my journey.

God's grace IS sufficient for us all.

July 24, 2010

2010-07-26T09:46:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for beautiful bouquets, playing in the sprinkler, and good Summer storms.

I spent my morning speed cleaning, while Dave had the kids outside. It's much easier to clean when there aren't little (or big) hands messing things up right behind me as I go. After her outside excursions, Bayleigh brought me this beautiful bouquet of (ehem) "flowers" from the back yard. I like little bouquets like this so much better than the one's from the florist, because I know this one was picked especially for me, by my sweet little girl.

I spent my afternoon goofing off on the computer while Eli took his nap, Dave studied out on the deck and Bayleigh played in the sprinkler.

I'm glad she had time to play outside before the storms moved in, later in the day. We ended up getting over a half inch of rain in a very short period of time, and it was nice to sit out on the deck and watch it move through.

I REALLY miss my schedule/routine. One more week of swimming lessons and then I'm forcing myself (and the kids) back into some semblance of order. This Summer has been completely sporadic and spontaneous; which is good up to a point, but really bad for my running.

July 23, 2010

2010-07-24T20:00:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for strength and determination.

I spent my morning cleaning house and picking up after everyone, and then mom came over and kidnapped the kids for a few hours. So what was I to do, but jump on the treadmill?!

I met my goal of 50 miles this month AND I ran 6.03 miles in 75 minutes, today. So I also met my secondary goal of 6 miles in one run.

My knees have both been feeling good; although it's going to take me a little while to build my right one back up . . . I'd say it's well on it's way.

It was nice to have an afternoon off and I literally goofed around the rest of the day; doing a little here and a little there. I still need to work on getting back on schedule, but it may just have to wait until swimming lessons are over with. They seem to be throwing a wrench in the works, while I'm trying to stay organized. If you can't change it . . . roll with it. Right?!

July 22, 2010

2010-07-24T19:49:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for forward progress and down time.

I spent a good portion of the day cleaning and putting laundry away, and then I took a break right after lunch.

The day seemed to slip away from me and before I knew it, it was time for swimming lessons again. The last day this week!

Dave met us at the pool and he took the above photo, since I was otherwise occupied, in the pool with Eli. They are both doing amazingly well in such a short period of time.

I'm so very proud of them both.

July 21, 2010

2010-07-21T21:18:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for only one appointment today.

The rains were moving in this afternoon, right after swimming lessons, and I stopped at an intersection and snapped a few shots.

And after I got home, I needed to borrow some vinegar from my mom so Dave could finish off canning pickles. Kasey was still at my mom's house and she brought out the cute little ducks and put them in the bird bath for me, so I could take a few shots.

She's such a sweet little girl, and her parents don't know what they are missing out on, when they drop her off here, and there for someone else to watch, while they are busy "living their lives". I'm not even sure if Kasey knows where "home" is anymore. I'm glad she likes to stay with my mom, though.

At least she gets the attention she craves, and has all the animals in the world to love on. I like to see her smiling and enjoying the simple things . . . like little baby ducks. These two follow the kids around EVERYWHERE, when you let them loose. They're just like puppy dogs and it's completely adorable to watch.

Early this morning, I worked on catching up the laundry and organizing all the vegetables that need to be worked up. There are a lot of tomatoes and cucumbers to process . . . along with some squash and zucchini.

I also ran my ten minute mile for the first time on my treadmill today. Total of 3.35 miles in 40 minutes, with interval walking and running. I've got a little under 2 miles left to reach my 50 mile goal for the month!

And I've ALMOST got the laundry completely caught up for another day. Tomorrow I'm planning on cleaning up the kitchen. It's a WRECK.

Swimming lessons went well again today. Eli learned how to do the "jellyfish float" and float on his back, and he's starting to learn some of the basics . . . like the crawl and the back stroke. Bayleigh also looked like she was doing well in her level 3 group. I'm really hoping they both learn to swim by the end of next week!

July 20, 2010

2010-07-21T20:53:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for Dave watching the kids, while mom and I headed off to our eye appointment. It would have been extremely hard keeping them occupied, while we spent over two hours doing and exam and waiting on someone to get our prescriptions filled at Eye Masters. (I won't be going back, by the way; except to pick up my glasses.)

When we headed out at 9:30 a.m. the sky was overcast and it looked like a good storm was moving in.

But 20 minutes South, the sun was shining and it was as hot as ever. Mom and I had our exams, picked out our glasses and FINALLY got out of Eye Masters in time to do some speed shopping, and then meet up with Dave and the kids at the dentist's office. Eli had to have three teeny tiny fillings filled, and he did a super job. The dental assistants were really proud of him . . . and so was mommy and daddy.

After the dentist appointment, mom and I ran to Braum's for some lunch (at 3:30 p.m.), while Dave occupied the kids at Bass Pro. We met up again at Bass Pro, and then switched the kids over to my Jeep, so Dave could go to his staff meeting, and I could get the kids to their swimming lessons on time.

Today was Eli's first jump off the diving board. He had a blast and wanted to continue jumping off the diving board over and over again. The child has absolutely no fear. He did really well, and I think by the time swimming lessons are done next week, he will have a pretty good grasp of swimming.

I was in the pool today too. Helping keep Eli in line, while trying to help him along with the other kids in level 2. Maybe by the time swimming lessons are over with, I won't have quite such a phobia about being seen in public in a bathing suit. I'm just weird about things like that.

What an exhausting day! Dave is staying up late to watch a movie with the kids and I'm off to bed!

July 19, 2010

2010-07-19T23:12:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for motivation and the diligence to see things through.

Monday's are always my busiest day of the week and today was doubly so. I'm still washing bedding (mine and Dave's) at 11:00 p.m. I started the day a little sluggish and behind schedule, but after I fed the kids, I jumped on the treadmill and ran 2 miles in 21.54 minutes, and finished out with a total of 3.03 in 35 minutes.

Then my mom came over to pick up the kids. (She's had Kasey all weekend, and I think it's easier for her to get things done around the house, when all the kids are there playing together, and keeping each other occupied.) So while the kids were at mom's, I brought out the border adhesive and the other roll of border, to finish up Eli's room. (*That self adhesive border didn't stick worth a hoot, so I had to take it all down and start from scratch today. I'm hoping this adhesive works, since it took me three and a half hours to take it all down, clean the walls again, and put it back up.)

In between working on the border in Eli's room, I did several loads of laundry, and got things packed up and ready for their first day of swimming lessons for the year.

Eli took to it like a fish! Both he and Bayleigh will be moving up to a little more advanced level tomorrow. Neither of them have any fear, and it scares me to death! I'm hoping they truly DO learn how to swim fairly well by the end of next week.

I also saw a few people I hadn't seen since high school! It was great seeing them and catching up a little bit.

Tomorrow, I guess I get to don the swimming attire and jump in with Eli, since he can't touch the bottom of the pool. I didn't know about that little tidbit until one of the instructors told me. EEK!

After swimming lessons, we headed straight home so I could finish up laundry, pay a few bills, and do a little more cleaning, since I'm not going to be home most of the day tomorrow. (Eye appointment for me and mom @11:00; Dentist appointment for Eli @ 2:00; swimming lessons @ 5:15 . . .) I hope I can make it through tomorrow!

July 18, 2010

2010-07-19T22:00:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for unexpected photo opportunities.

After church, I fixed a quick lunch and tried to get the kids to lay down and rest with me. After two nights of very little sleep, I was feeling the need for a nap! Unfortunately the kids didn't take very long naps, as Dave had promised them we would all go to a "new" golf course after nap time.

I would have much rather stayed at home and rested, but the lure of new photo opportunities won out over the nap.

We hadn't tried the course at Warsaw before, so it was a new "treat". Dave and Bayleigh practised on the driving range while Eli and I practised on the putting green.

Needless to say . . . with the heat and the short attention span, Eli was done rather quickly.

And he wanted to explore the driving range with Dave and Bayleigh.

It looks like a pretty nice place to play a game of golf . . .

and I'm sure we'll be back again soon.

After Dave and Bayleigh finished up, we drove around to the beach and picnic areas, and then checked out the little park by the dam.

There were several people sitting on the bank, trying to catch fish . . .

and we saw a huge flock of blue herons. One right after the other. I wish I'd had my zoon lens. (If you look closely at the photo above, you can see one flying right above the water, right about the middle of the photo.)

After we finished cruising around, we ate at the Mexican restaurant, did a little grocery shopping and headed home. It was an exhausting afternoon, but I'm glad the kids had fun.

July 17, 2010

2010-07-17T22:07:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful and grateful to finish up some of the little pesky projects I had on my to-do list this year.

I actually knocked out quite a few by concentrating on Eli's room. I had pictures and a shelf to hang up on the walls; a second coat of paint to put on a section of one wall; paint to touch up (where it got nicked from moving furniture in last year); and border to put up.

I also had two huge garbage bags full of clothes to go through and sort, that my friend Nicole had given me back in JUNE!

Before I jumped in on the painting, I took some before pictures . . . because that's just the way I am.

Then I brought out the paint, and put the second coat on the above wall in an area measuring about 4 feet by 6 feet. It looks MUCH better now.

After I touched up all the paint and cleaned everything up, I started on the border.

Just FYI . . . don't buy the $9.98 self adhesive border, if you have textured walls and use eggshell or semi-gloss paint. It doesn't want to stick very well and I had to make several passes over it . . .

then I used spray adhesive, hoping that would help (it didn't . . . plus it made the border bubble up) . . .

(and this is a little off subject . . . but just look at the mess I can make, when I put my mind to it!)

So my last ditch effort at making things stick, was to pull out my trusty Glue Dots. So far they're working, but I may have to buy enough to put a glue dot every inch (on both top and bottom) to get this stuff to stick!

I think it turned out rather well . . . even with all the difficulty getting it to stick, and Eli just LOVES it. (Bayleigh and Eli spent all day and grandma's, so it was a big surprise when I brought them back home.)

Dave helped me hang the shelf above the bed . . .

and the pictures on the wall.

And now I'm going to have to pick up another batch of border to finish off two stinkin' foot. Isn't that how it always works? lol

After I swept the floors, moved all the furniture back to it's normal location, and put all the toys away . . .

I started sorting all the clothes. I think it took me longer to sort/purge and put away all the clothes, than it took me to do everything else! But now it's done and I can mark several of those little nagging "to-do's" off of my list.

I also ran 3.25 miles this morning. 3 miles in 34.59 minutes, and then I walked another five minutes to cool down and stretch my muscles.

I still have a big stack of clothes to try on Eli, to see if they still fit. Maybe I'll finish those up after church tomorrow.

And I was pleasantly surprised by a visit from my cousin Jimmy late this afternoon. I hadn't seen him in over a year. He's planning on getting us some tickets for the rodeo next weekend so we can come up and visit him while he works at the rodeo. Hope it all works out where we can go. I think the kids would have a BLAST!

It's been another busy and productive day! Gotta like days like this!

July 16, 2010

2010-07-16T22:24:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for forward progress and rain!

Most of my day was spent on laundry, dishes and cleaning and vacuuming the living room. There was a lot to pick up and put away today . . . but since 99.9% of it belonged to the kids, I put them to work cleaning.

Bayleigh gave me a little attitude this morning, so she spent a few hours in her room . . . where she finally got tired of screaming at me, and fell asleep. I'm hoping this is a short lived phase she's going through. I don't know how much more I can take. So much whining and pushing, just to get her way . . . What she hasn't realized is that I personally taught "stubborn" to a mule, and when I draw the line, there is no crossing it without some form of disciplinary repercussion. I've thought several times here recently, that she's getting to be too big to spank, but today I think I shocked her with a few swift swats to the fanny. I do believe I got her attention though, before I sat down with her and had "a little talk" about her attitude. I'm not sure if it was the talk, or the nap she ended up taking a short time later, that finally brought about a change in attitude. (Probably the nap.)

Other than the temper tantrum this morning, today has been a wonderful day. I accomplished quite a bit, and still had time to squeeze in a few breaks during the day.

I ran 3.0 miles today in 35.20. It felt good to up the speed and tack on that extra 5 minutes. Tomorrow I'll probably drop the speed a bit, but keep to the 35 minutes. I'm really trying to keep to the baby steps, to avoid injury . . . but on days like today; where my stride was right on the money, and I was completely relaxed the whole run; it was hard to make myself stop. It felt wonderful.

And after the hot and humid day we've had, it finally came a huge downpour around 8:00 p.m. I'm glad I didn't have to go out and water the garden this evening.

I'm looking forward to a peaceful weekend, before we gear up for more doctor's appointments and swimming lessons next week. I'm desperately needing a vacation from Summer vacation. lol

July 15, 2010

2010-07-15T20:45:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for pretty flowers, and early morning showers.

I took mom to her doctor's appointment for her yearly check-up. But before we left I snapped a few photos next to the garage . . .

and a few shots of the squash growing out of my mom's flower bed in front of the house.

After we finished up at the doctor's, we headed off to the flea market (our favorite place in town). I found an old Kodak film tank . . .

with the trays, which I think I can use to store a small amount of my ribbons and fibers on my work surface. Another one of those "vintage" photo finds, that might come in useful in my space.

After the flea market, we headed to Wal-Mart for some returns, and then headed home. After being up most of the night, (went to sleep around 1:00 a.m., Eli had a bad dream at 3:00 a.m., storm blew through at 5:00 a.m. so I had to get up and unplug everything . . .so I just stayed up) I was exhausted, but the kids were wound up, so there was no rest for me! I'm hoping to get to bed early and sleep in tomorrow.

No running today, but I'll be back at it in the morning! Must get some sleep!

July 14, 2010

2010-07-14T21:25:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for a plan and FOCUS.

I chose another small part of the house to focus on straightening up, and I just have a little more to go and the sitting area/dining room will be done . . . hopefully with a little more artwork hung on the walls this week.

I'm already sick of picking, snapping, canning and eating green beans.

I ran 2.33 miles in 30 minutes today. Bayleigh begged me to get to go to grandma's house this afternoon, so I made her clean up the living room floor before she went over. It's amazing what a little incentive can do for a little girl. Eli wanted to go too, but I kept him at home, so he could take his afternoon nap. We ended up sharing a bowl of "Cheeta's", before his nap. I think it's cute that he still calls them Cheeta's instead of Cheeto's.

I REALLY need to get out and take some decent photos. For the moment, it seems like I'm focused on cleaning and running. I need to throw some creativity into the mix soon. Maybe tomorrow will present an opportunity. I'm really just wanting to get things back in order before August. I have big plans (and a new schedule) to work on, before school starts back up. I can't believe that in four short weeks, Bayleigh will be headed back to school. Summer vacation goes so very quickly.

July 13, 2010

2010-07-13T21:16:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for a little time to myself. Dave canned green beans this morning, and this afternoon he took the kids to Springfield for a day out. It's after 9:00 p.m. and they're just now on the way home, so I'm sure the kids will sleep well tonight! (Thanks honey, for giving me a little break with the kiddos.) I accomplished quite a bit while everyone was gone.

Dave and the kids left around 1:00 p.m. and I jumped into getting some more laundry done, then I hopped on the treadmill for 30 minutes. (Another 2.25 miles today.) At 2:30 p.m., Stacey dropped Kasey off, because she had to work for a few hours and mom and dad were gone. Kasey wanted me to play with her, since my two weren't here to play with, so we ended up playing with the Lite Brite. I hope she had fun!

Mom and dad picked her up around 3:30 p.m., and then I jumped back into the cleaning. I managed to clean 2.5 bathrooms from top to bottom, scrubbed the entry, and cleaned out a corner where I moved my treadmill.

It's nice to have my focus back, and it's been a fabulous day. If I could have a day like this once a week, it would be heaven. There was nobody here to make more messes, as I cleaned, so I actually feel like I've made some progress today.

I can't wait to start on tomorrow's to-do list!

July 12, 2010

2010-07-12T22:10:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for my mom. She goes above and beyond, when it comes to her kids and her grandkids.

She came over today and spent a few hours helping me get the house back in order, and picking a few more green beans. It drives me nuts when she comes over and finds me cleaning, and decides to jump in and help. (I'd rather do things myself . . .) However, I'm always glad for her company. And she DOES inspire me to get more done than I had originally planned, even though I'm worn out by the end of the day.

Maybe I'll sleep good tonight.

It's been a challenging and busy day. After Dave headed off to work, Eli woke up and wanted me to lay down with him in MY bed. Soon after, Bayleigh joined us. They slept in until 9:00, while I laid in bed reading.

As soon as I got everyone up and fed, I started cleaning on the living room. (It's been a wreck ever since the garage sale on the 4th of July weekend.) The kids were supposed to be helping, but Bayleigh purposely defied a direct order . . . so she got to spend an hour or so in her room. Whining and sobbing at the top of her lungs.

I let her come out around lunch time, and continued cleaning. Then mom came over to visit, and jumped in helping me pick things up, and put them away.

After she left, I finally had my own lunch around 3:00 p.m., then I jumped on the treadmill for 30 minutes. (2.25 miles today.)

I made it halfway through my run, when Eli woke up from his nap. He proceeded to throw a fit, so I jumped off the treadmill for a few minutes to calm him down. He wanted to go to grandma's house and there was no getting him sidetracked. So I finished my run while I listened to him scream.

I'm thinking I need a little break. Dave is off work tomorrow, so maybe I can con him into watching the kids, while I do some more catch-up cleaning.

July 11, 2010

2010-07-11T20:39:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for "purpose". And although at some times I lose my sense of purpose, it always seems to come back to me. Now . . . if I could just harness that sense of purpose and keep going at an even pace.

Today at church, we finished up the kid's Bible School project. Noah's ark was the theme (and I think Tammy and Alex did an awesome job on that boat!). Bayleigh read the story, while Kasey, Alex and Eli manned the animals. Tammy was the bright and shining rainbow and I'm thankful she was there to help me out!

After church, I fixed lunch, unloaded and re-loaded the dishwasher, and did some laundry. I also ran 2.25 miles in 30 minutes, before I ate lunch myself. A monsoon moved in right after I finished my run, and I ended up unplugging things, due to all the flickering lights in the house.

I got online and ordered my next pair of running shoes this afternoon, too. They are a custom order, so it will take up to 4 weeks to get them. I'm pretty excited about them . . . Now if my old shoes will just hold out that long! (*I may be running barefoot by the end of the month!)

After I ordered my shoes, I helped Dave and the kids snap green beans. Dave hates snapping beans, but I don't mind, just so long as I don't have a bazillion other things I need to be doing.

I had planned on resting after church today, but something spurred me into cleaning a little bit, so I just went with the flow. Maybe tomorrow I can get caught up (or at least make a dent) in some of the housework. I'm hoping I don't have to go anywhere this week. A week at home would be WONDERFUL.

July 10, 2010

2010-07-10T22:29:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for the little beam of light at the end of the tunnel.

It seems like I've had to be somewhere every day for the past two weeks. After church tomorrow, I get a short reprieve before we start swimming lessons on the 19th. If it were up to me, I'd rarely leave the house. I'm an introvert and I'm perfectly happy staying at home cleaning and watching the kids.

We've gotten a few eggplants out of the garden recently.

This particular eggplant ended up in pizza, which Dave fixed for lunch; before we headed out for Bible School.

We were short a few kids today, but these two always seem to get along famously. I think if we can make it through their program in church tomorrow (without chaos reining), it will be a MIRACLE.

After we got home from Bible School, I rested for a bit, and then finished picking a 5 gallon bucket full of green beans from the garden. It looks like I'll be dragging the canner out . . .

It was nice and peaceful outside and I enjoyed the antics of the two little kittens that we still have. It looks like they'll be joining the outside cat family for good, since we've given them names. One is Lucifie, and the other is Zikafoose. (I hope Bayleigh lets me name her children, when the time comes. There's no telling what she might come up with! lol)

After I picked beans, I jumped on the treadmill for 2.55 miles in 30 minutes. I think I'm over the halfway mark on my 50 miles for the month, so if I can get in at least 2 to 3 miles a day I should meet my goal by the end of the month.

Now I'm off to prepare for my Sunday School class tomorrow!

July 9, 2010

2010-07-09T22:11:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for accomplishments . . . small though some of them may be.

It seems like I've been gone so much lately, that my housework has fallen WAY behind. Luckily I was able to catch up with most of the laundry and the dishes today. I'm just needing a few days at home to get things back in order . . . but it doesn't look like that is going to happen until Monday.

Bible School is in full swing. (I missed helping out yesterday, due to the kid's dentist appointments . . .) Vicky wasn't able to make it today. A very sweet woman (Vicky's mom) passed away this afternoon and she will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.

Thankfully Tammy and David were there to help me out! I don't know if I could have wrestled all 6 kids by myself or not! Things started off really well, with a story about Noah's Ark, but the boys got bored pretty quickly. So we marched and sang "Jesus Loves Me". Then the kids made some more hand puppets (since Bayleigh and Eli hadn't got to make their's yesterday) and we wrapped up with a game of football to let them all run off some steam. Two hours is a long time to keep these kids focused. I don't know WHAT I'm going to come up with for tomorrow, but it's going to have to be something active, I'm thinking . . .

My plans are pretty up in the air right now. I'm not sure what I'll be doing tomorrow. (Dave mentioned heading back to Silver Dollar City with the kids, so they could meet Scooby Doo . . . but I feel obligated to stay and help finish up Bible School. And I'd rather stay close to home anyway. I have A LOT of catching up to do!)

I ran 2.23 miles today in 30 minutes. Since I'm taking it easy on my knees, until I can get my hamstrings properly stretched and strengthened, I'll be cutting my run in half for a few weeks. I just can't NOT run. I'm afraid of the "what if's" . . . Like what if . . . I stop running for two weeks, so I can strengthen and stretch my hamstrings, and then just decide that it's too hard to jump back on the treadmill?

I've worked too hard to get where I'm at. And I have a goal of at least one six mile run by the end of the month. I know I could probably do it right now, but my knees would pay dearly and I will not sacrifice injury this far into my goal. I've saved my money and tomorrow I will be ordering my first pair of top of the line running shoes. (*Part of my knee tenderness is due to wearing worn out running shoes. The cushiony part of the soles are starting to come loose.) I can't wait to get them, and get myself back into the game and up to a higher standard of running!

July 8, 2010

2010-07-08T20:25:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful to just be home and still have some vestige of sanity left.

I took the kids to the dentist today and they were both HEATHENS. I'm wondering if it's just bad parenting on my part . . . or do all parents have "moments" when they would like to just vanish into thin air, to avoid being embarrassed by the actions of their children. I'm thinking when they get a little older, PAYBACKS are going to be one of the highlights of my life.

My mom went with me (thankfully), and she has absolutely NO idea why they go from being normal children at home, to little terrors when we are out and about. The above little terror is my main reason for stopping at having two children. I don't think I could possibly handle another one like him.

Mom and I decided to do a little goofing around while we were in the "big city", so we headed off to window shop, and hit some flea markets. I ended up with a huge bag full of books for $10. So I'll be busy reading for the next couple of weeks.

And I also picked up this matching set of notebooks/binders at the dollar store. (I have a "thing" for notebooks and pens and such.) I can't wait to start using them. They will come in handy for Cathy Z.'s Me: The Abridged Version class, that I just signed up for today.

I'm in the midst of fixing supper, but I'm hoping to get a 2 mile run in, so I'd better get to it! Oh! And I found out why my knees hurt when I run. My hamstrings are wimpy. My hubby, "Dr. Dave", checked them last night and told me to take 800 mg of Ibuprofen at breakfast, lunch and dinner for five days; use ice packs and start doing stretches. NO RUNNING FOR TWO WEEKS. Ummmmm . . . sorry. I MUST run. I'll just start adding 20 minutes of stretch time to my pre-run routine. After I've got my 50 miles in for July, I'll take a few weeks off to do things in their proper order, so I don't end up hurting myself. Maybe NOW would be a good time to take up YOGA in the a.m.

July 7, 2010

2010-07-07T20:56:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for the chance to sleep in, and clean desks.

As soon as I crawled out of bed this morning, I took all the bills, receipts, paperwork, and stuff to be filed upstairs to my desk to sort and deal with. But first, I had to clean off my desk. I managed to get almost everything back in manageable order . . . then I called Apple to ask a few more techie questions that have come up over the past month. I'm still working on a few small issues with my Mac, but I'm hoping I can get them figured out before my 90 day tech support expires.

I had two months worth of bank statements to catch up on and this little guy was my companion for most of the morning.

It was late in the afternoon before I hopped on the treadmill. Storms came through in the afternoon, and I managed to get Eli down for a nap. I really wanted to lay down for a nap too, but I made myself jump back on the treadmill. 4.57 miles in one hour. Tomorrow I may not get a chance to run. I've got dentist appointments for both kids and then I need to see if I can get back in time to help with Vacation Bible School. I'm hoping I don't have a rushed trip, but we'll see what tomorrow brings.

And I've still got housework that I need to catch up on . . . WHERE IS ALL MY TIME GOING?!

July 6, 2010

2010-07-07T17:10:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for patience and the determination to push myself just a little bit farther.

We had big plans to take the kids to Silver Dollar City today, so I knew I had to get my run in a little early. I initially thought I'd just run a quick mile or so, but one ended up being 4.47 in 1 hour. As I started out, my right knee was really bothering me, but as I passed the 1 mile mark, it started to loosen up and I decided to go "just a little farther". And as I progressed, I started pushing myself, and surpassing one goal after another. I didn't think I could run at a steady pace of 4.5 m.p.h. for an hour, but I proved myself wrong today.

After we all got showered and ready to go, we headed South! The kids were less than stellar today. WHINE, WHINE, WHINE. I'm not sure when we're going back, but I'm sure it will be much too soon for me! lol Maybe they'll be in a better mood next time.

And I decided to take my little Nikon Coolpix with me today, instead of my lovely DSLR. In doing this, I've learned a whole new appreciation for my Canon. My poor little Nikon takes FOREVER to start up, and by the time it does, I've usually missed my photo op. I'm thinking I need to upgrade my back-up camera at some point. It IS five years old, but still takes some great pictures, just so long as you're not in a hurry to get a shot. So I chose a few of the bright colored birdhouses to shoot.

When we left, I brought out my Canon and took a few shots. It is so much quicker to focus!

We ate in Springfield, I ran through Wal-Mart for a few groceries and then we zipped home to get the kids changed into their jammies, and take them over to stay all night with grandma. (Grandma wanted them to stay all night and have some play time with my niece, who was also staying all night.)

Dave and I ended up staying up late and watching the latest James Bond flick on the DVR before heading off to bed, and it was somewhere around 2:00 a.m. before we got settled in for the night. It was nice having some time to ourselves.

July 5, 2010

2010-07-05T21:54:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for the RAIN! It's been a long time since we got more than a few sprinkles at a time; however today, we actually got a down pour!

Of course it came AFTER I watered the garden, but I'll take all I can get.

I spent most of my day doing laundry and dishes, taking out garbage and trash, and just cleaning in general. I've still got a long way to go before it's back to it's normal self, but at least I made a dent today.

Above are a few more of my "treasures" from the garage sale this weekend. Soup jars. I plan on using these to organize my ribbons and fibers in my scrapbooking room. I've been searching all over for the old glass half pint jars with glass lids and bails, but I don't want to pay more than a dollar for them . . . so I'm striking out in that arena. These will do nicely though. They match, they have lids and I can label them!

I ran 4.25 miles in 56:06 minutes today. I'm finding that if I work out later in the morning, my Pilates and my running are much easier. I'm more limber, AND it gives me a much needed energy boost when I need it most. I think I'm just going to re-arrange things a bit so I can continue with my mid-day exercising. I may take up YOGA in the mornings to fill in that time slot with a little more stretching and quiet time. It seems like I'm always tweeking my schedule . . . but I think that's what keeps me on my toes. I'm always looking for improvement.

July 4, 2010

2010-07-04T23:12:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for the freedom that I enjoy, and for those who fight to maintain that freedom. There are no words of gratitude to express how thankful I am for those who risk their lives, so that others can enjoy the freedoms that our country maintains.

I got up early and prepared everything for church and Sunday School, then I got the kids up, dressed and ready to go. After we got home from church, I fixed lunch and dove into some of the housework that I've neglected over the past few days.

When the kids finished up eating lunch, I tried to get them both to lay down and take a nap, but Eli was way to squirmy, so he just kicked and prodded me while I read a book. I finally got him down for a nap late in the afternoon.

Dave wasn't feeling well all day, but his fever finally broke this afternoon and he took the kids into town to pick up a few fireworks.

They had a great time playing with the sparklers after supper, and my mom came over to watch them play.

Tomorrow is going to be a busy day of getting the house back into some form of order, from the crazy weekend. I swear I could work around the clock and never get it all done. It's a vicious cycle, but I'm hoping to give more responsibility to the kids this summer, so I can lighten the load. We'll see how that works out . . .

Must get some sleep tonight. Tomorrow it's back to the treadmill . . . and the housework.

July 3, 2010

2010-07-04T00:14:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful that I just made it through the day. It was another full day of working the garage sale . . .

I didn't have much of my own stuff in here . . .

but from what little I did have, I made about $25.00. And I got to meet two very fun ladies in the process. The two women that actually had all the stuff were a lot of fun and we had several laughs over the past two days.

My mom called a lady from a local consignment store, after we shut down for the day, and she came right out and picked all the leftovers up. I REALLY like that this lady does this for us, every time we have a garage sale. It saves us all a lot of work, and space . . . AND it makes her a little money on the side in her shop. I'd say it's a win, win situation.

After we wrapped things up with the garage sale, I walked 1.27 miles on the treadmill to loosen up my sore muscles from yesterday's workout. I normally don't work out on the weekends, but this month, I think I'm going to make an exception. I need to keep loosened up for all the running I'll be continuing throughout the month.

After I showered and bathed the kids, we all headed out to watch the fireworks show below the dam.

This is the first year I've really TRIED to get photos of the fireworks, and I got a little carried away. (I took 105 photos of the fireworks show. lol) Overall, I think they turned out pretty well, since I shot free hand. (I'm just too lazy to drag my tripod around with me . . .) I shot in manual mode with an ISO of 200, dialed all the way down to BULB, with an aperture setting of 8.0. Maybe someday I'll figure out how all this works. But for me . . . the trial and error are just part of the fun of learning. I'd be positively DANGEROUS if I actually knew what I was doing.

I've been up for WAY too long, and my bed is calling. So I'm logging off for tonight (or I guess I should say this morning . . .)

Hope you all have a fun and safe 4th of July weekend!

July 2, 2010

2010-07-02T23:28:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for Carmex and Neutrogena lotion.

I got a little more sun than I had anticipated, and was far too busy working the garage sale to take time out and apply any.

Up a little before 4:00 a.m. and finally had the last customer some time around 6:30 p.m.

Here are a few more treasures that I snagged . . . 3 Led Zepplin vinyl albums for .50 cents each. WHAT A STEAL!

After I finished up with the garage sale for the day, I went into the house and ran one mile in 11:04 on the treadmill and then tried out one of the "Fat Burner Plus" Intensity training settings. One hour of random inclines at various speeds with an additional 2.85 miles. Total mileage today was 3.85. My rump is going to hurt tomorrow. I used muscles I wasn't really used to using. (I'm more of a runner than a mountain climber!)

Dave fixed a quick and simple supper, and then we headed outside to roast marshmallows over a campfire, to make S'mores.

I'm getting ready to slather on some more lotion and hit the sack. I've got another early morning, and will be finishing up the garage sale tomorrow afternoon. I can't wait until it's over. Then we're all heading to the dam to watch the 4th of July fireworks display. *YAWN* Must get some sleep.

July 1, 2010

2010-07-01T22:05:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for new treasures. As they say . . . one man's junk is another's treasure.

Can you guess what might be hidden in this cute little carrying case?

Lots of goodies.

My mom's friend wanted to have a garage sale at my house for some reason, so I was the lucky one that got to help set up (for 6 hours), and I was also lucky to find a few neat items. Like this old Polaroid. It's completely mint (as is the case). I'm hoping I might be fortunate enough to run into some film for this beauty, so I can try it out. But I'm not holding my breath . . .

I ran 3.2 miles in 40:01 minutes today. Still messing with all the speeds and inclines and such. I may get it figured out by the end of the month, if I can keep it up.

And the rest of my day was spent helping everyone get ready for the garage sale tomorrow. I guess I'll be getting up at the butt crack of dawn to get things going, so I'm headed off to get the kids in bed, and grab a quick shower.

Hope I can survive the weekend!

June 30, 2010

2010-06-30T22:07:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for endurance and short bits of time to myself.

I cleaned house this morning, and then I ended up watching my niece, while my mom did some weedeating and yard work in preparation for the garage sale I'm apparently having this coming weekend.

(*I get volunteered for a lot of things, and just told at the last minute. Such is my life.)

After mom got things set up to her specifications, she took Kasey AND my two back to her house to play; so that gave me a much needed afternoon to myself. I probably should have been sorting and digging out stuff for the garage sale, but instead, I did my 10 minute Pilates warm up, ran 3.03 miles in 40:01 minutes, showered and watched a movie on television. I rarely get the chance to sit down and watch TV, and it's something I feel is a total waste of my time, but every now and again, it's nice to plop down on the couch and enjoy getting wrapped up in a good comedy or action adventure.

I was really feeling unmotivated in my photography today, so I just snapped a quick shot of the treadmill with my mileage and time. I'm still feeling that I'm not hitting my stride quite right. Tomorrow I think I'll up the speed a little. Today I ran on a speed of 4.5 for the first 2.5 miles (which for a lot of people would be a really brisk walk . . . but I'm short. So I take twice as many steps as a lot of people. lol). I jumped the speed up to a 6.0 for the last half mile or so. I just can't seem to figure it all out. I'm sure it will come with time, once I get adjusted to things . . . and I'm pretty happy with the fact that I haven't fallen off of the thing . . . YET!

June 29, 2010

2010-06-29T22:41:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for flexibility and taking in life to it's fullest.

I woke up, did my Pilates and ran 2.0 miles in 25:51 minutes on the treadmill, then tacked on another half mile at a slower jog.

Bayleigh, for some reason, had it in her head that she wanted to go golfing at a real golf course . . .

so I dusted off my bag, and we all headed out right after lunch.

Bayleigh is really doing a good job;

when she actually listens to instructions and does what she's told.

And Eli was my official "ball washer". He had lots of fun cleaning everyone's golf balls, and "helping" drive the cart. (The boy has a lead foot . . . we're going to have to work with him a bit. lol)

We played 9 holes and then headed back to the clubhouse for a treat before we left.

And after we got home and rested for a few moments, Dave brought out a new treat he wanted to test out. He stuck some yogurt in the freezer with spoons sitting straight up from the top. They froze into yogurt pops and the kids really enjoyed them. (They didn't drip nearly as much as the kool-aid pops.)

Then we headed to the neighbors to help her fix her garage door, and on the way back . . .

we stopped at mom's house and I took a picture of one of her roses and I caught her working in the garden. (*Don't tell her I took a picture of her hoeing . . . she'll shoot me!)

It's been a long day of fun! I wish it would have lasted longer, but we'll have to save some fun for another day. We can't use it all up at once!

June 28, 2010

2010-06-28T23:08:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for Summer treats and getting my "brain" back on track.

Who knew that Jelly Belly made popscicles?! The kids enjoyed theirs!

And this morning I tackled the treadmill for the first time ever. It took me quite a while to get things figured out and set to the right speeds and settings. As a matter of fact, it took me 29 minutes and 21 seconds to run 2.0 miles. But I'm pretty sure something is wrong with that one, since I can walk 2 miles in 30 minutes. I guess I'm going to have to break down and buy the operator's manual online, just so I know what I'm doing.

This past month, I haven't even cracked open my "brain". I'm so off schedule and floundering, that I decided I needed to start somewhere. So this is it! I also needed a good challenge and Cathy Z. has provided one for me by setting up a challenge of running 50 miles in July. I'm looking forward to it!

I managed to do 9 (NINE!!!!) loads of laundry today, 2 dishwashers full of dishes (plus some hand washing), my Pilates, a good run, and I took out the garbage and cleaned the kitchen and part of Eli's bedroom today. I'm tired . . . but just waiting on that last load of laundry to finish drying, so I can put my comforter back on the bed before I fall asleep.

Hoping tomorrow is another productive day!

June 27, 2010

2010-06-28T16:39:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for RAIN! I woke up this morning to a few pitter patters outside on the deck, then it came pouring down for a few moments before fading away again. We haven't had a good rain in WEEKS.

After we got around, we headed off to church. The kids were a bit wild, but at least I made it through the lesson and the kids retained a few important bits of information.

I fixed a frozen pizza for lunch, and then we all laid down for a nap. Later in the afternoon we headed out so the kids could play, while I helped Dave measure, string line, and set posts for the chain link fence. In the process of setting posts, another shower pounded through and got us all soaking wet.

It cooled things down nicely, but it didn't take us long to dry out. We sat out on the deck for a little while, drying off and watching it sprinkle . . .

and the sunset was amazing this evening. It lit up the sky with all shades of pink and peach. Even off to the East.

We still have a lot of clean up and landscaping to do, but it will just have to come a little at a time.

I'm hoping to get to bed early, so I can start my week off on the right note.

June 26, 2010

2010-06-26T21:42:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for healthy kids. Although at times I get irritated with all their whining and bickering, I do realize how very blessed I am to have them both. Happy, healthy, rambuncious and rowdy.

The past few months I haven't taken very many photos of the kids. Mainly due to the fact that I get the above response to any camera pointed in their general direction. It's really quite frustrating.

So I've relegated myself to shots like the one above. Zooming in close enough, so as not to capture the offending tongue. I'm hoping this stage passes quickly.

Dave has been teaching Bayleigh to hit golf balls; since we've got such a nice level dirt area out in the back yard at the moment. She's getting pretty good, and I dare say she could probably beat me. It's been YEARS since I picked up a club. I think the last time was when I was about 6 months pregnant with Bayleigh. WOW! I'd hate to see what my swing looks like now.

The DirectTV guy installed the new satellite today. We dumped Dish after they told us it would cost $100 for them to come and put the dish back up after we had the house re-roofed . . . and I also downgraded our landline service. We're now saving about $30.00 per month . . . at least for the first 10 months of our contract with the new cable company. So . . . the kids are happy (they have more channels to watch), we're happy (because we're saving some money) and life is good.

I'm hoping to stash the money we're saving, back for a new pair of running shoes. I may just have to wear the ones I've got until they fall apart, though. I always hate spending money on clothes and such, when it could be used for so many more important things (like a new lens for my camera! lol). Aw well . . . such is life!

June 25, 2010

2010-06-25T22:45:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for good friends, good food and good times. I spent most of my morning cleaning on the house. Then Ryan and Chance dropped by with the treadmill. Ryan was nice enough to take the heavy end, while Chance and I carried the lighter end. I really appreciate all the trouble they went to to deliver it. (Any time you all want squash or garden goodies, come on down!)

And this evening, I was invited over to my friend Nancy's, for some food and adult conversation. This carrot cake was absolutely SINFUL. (It'll take me awhile to run this one off!)

And we all had a wonderful time. Some were old friends and some were new aquaintences.

It was just nice getting out of the house and visiting, without having to worry about the kids getting into things.

On the way home, I stopped by a field and took a few photos of a Mimosa tree.

They're really pretty and after we get the kid's play area set up, I may see if I can find one to plant close by.

As I was heading over to my mom's I stopped to get a picture of the full moon. It's just gorgeous tonight. I'm hoping it won't keep me awake all night.

After I picked up the kids, and Dave got home, I drove back over to mom's to drop off the Jeep for her to drive in the morning. She's got to work in the kitchen at school.

I walked back home in the "dark", but the moon was shining so brightly, that I actually cast a shadow on the ground. It was a nice, peaceful walk home.

(*Thanks for inviting me over Nancy! I had a wonderful time!)

June 24, 2010

2010-06-24T22:31:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for close family ties. I got up early this morning to do my Pilates and get my run in before it got too hot. I didn't shave any time off this morning, but I kept it at 2.5 miles in 26 minutes. I'm continuing to work on my form and my pace, but I think it's finally coming around.

My cousin Sharon is having a garage sale this weekend, and invited us up to do a little early shopping. We don't live that far away, but it doesn't seem like we get together as much as we did when we were kids. We're going to have to remedy that! I picked up a few goodies (along with a TREAD MILL), and by the time my mom was done shopping we had the back of the Jeep filled up.

Ryan is going to be delivering the tread mill tomorrow. I just couldn't pass it up for $50, PLUS it means I have NO excuses not to use it every day. Rain, heat, snow . . . the only thing that will deter me is if the electricity goes out. It WILL take some getting used to, and I prefer to run outside, but just in case . . . I've now got a back up!

I shot the two photos on the way home from Ryan and Sharon's house. The sun setting to the West and the moon rising in the East. It was a beautiful evening!

June 23, 2010

2010-06-23T20:10:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful that my little girl isn't of driving age yet. She's going to be the terror of the highways when she reaches 16. Unfortunately I know it's going to get here sooner than I'm ready for.

Marc and the guys started re-roofing the old part of the house this morning at the crack of dawn. Actually I'm sure they were here before the sun, just waiting for enough light to start working by. They had everything finished up before noon! Thankfully they weren't working through the hottest part of the day. It's been miserably hot here this past week and we're still under a heat advisory.

Beccie picked up Bayleigh for her play date this morning, around 10:00 a.m. and then brought her back just in time for us to get out the door for the fair. (Thanks Beccie . . . for having Bayleigh over. We all need to get together soon!)

We were the first exhibitor's to show up, so we got registered and then the kids and I sat in the Jeep (which I'd parked in the shade), and the kids drank some water and had some snacks while we waited for everyone else to get set up and signed in. We had to be there at 2:00 p.m. for sign in and set up, and the judging was held at 4:00 p.m.

The kids got to visit with some old friends from last year's show, and they also met some new friends. I entered Eli with the two birds above. The little one is a Silver Seabright Bantam and the larger one is a Golden Laced Cochin Bantam. He ended up getting one blue ribbon and one red ribbon (mainly due to the fact that these two were very young birds) . . .

And Bayleigh got a blue ribbon for last year's Grand Champion/Best of Show. This one also made 2nd reserve champ this year.

After the winners were announced, Bayleigh helped pass out the blue ribbons. I think she had just as much fun passing out ribbons as she did showing her chicken!

Next year, we'll take more chickens. And hopefully I'll have some help with the kids. It's hard keeping two small one's occupied for over 3 hours. lol

After we finished up, we stopped by to see Dave at work and then ran through Dairy Queen for some ice cream.

I'm just glad to have made it through the day in one piece. I've taken 3 ibuprofen and I'm praying for a good night's sleep. I'm BEAT!

June 22, 2010

2010-06-22T21:53:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for new discoveries and a healthy body. I got up early this morning to do my Pilates, and then I added another 1/2 mile to my run. I'm glad I got out early before the sun really started beating down. It was pushing 80 degrees, as I ran this morning, and we were indeed under another heat advisory today.

I only managed to snag a little under 3 hours of sleep last night, so I did make time for a short nap this afternoon. I don't know what it is about me . . . but if I'm up and running after midnight, it's hard for me to wind down and it takes a while for me to actually fall asleep. I'd be better off if I just stayed up all night. If I go to bed between 9 and 11, I'm asleep seconds after my head hits the pillow. WEIRD. I'm going to be shuffling my schedule again. It's an on-going process I think. Things change and my schedule needs to change with them. I wish it didn't have to though. I JUST get into my niche, when I have to shuffle things around again. I guess that keeps me from getting stale in my habits.

While I was outside helping Dave measure and mark out the play area today (in the NASTY heat), the kids found a cool surprise. A whole slew of tadpoles were growing and thriving in the canoe out by the shed. Dave had pulled it back there last fall when we were working on the house, but he forgot to turn it over, where it wouldn't take on water. This is the result . . .

We're just going to leave it like that for a little while longer, so the tadpoles can grow into frogs and make their way into the world. Then we're going to tip it over, so the mosquitoes don't take us alive.

This guy and his buddy (the 100 foot tape measure) got to be my constant companions today, as I helped Dave measure out and mark the kid's play area. It had to be close to 100 degrees out and it only took a few minutes before you were soaked all the way through. It was like a sauna . . . but worse.

We have guys coming to re-roof part of the house tomorrow, so I hope they're up bright and early. I don't want them having to suffer from all this heat. Maybe we'll get some rain soon . . .

Well I'm actually going to make it to bed before midnight tonight! So here's hoping for a good night's sleep and getting back on track in the morning.

June 21, 2010

2010-06-21T23:46:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for Mondays. One of my favorite days of the week.

I attempted to catch up on laundry and dishes today, but only made a dent in things. Tomorrow. I'll get caught up tomorrow! Truly I will.

Dave and I took the kids to see Toy Story 3 in 3D this afternoon. The kids loved it (probably more because of the 3D glasses than anything else). I really wish I could have taken my camera in, but digital items (including cell phones) are not allowed inside the movie theater. Thus, my lack of photos today.

I thought the movie was sweet, and I'll admit there were a few scenes that brought tears to my eyes. (I'm a sap.) Of course Dave and the kids had to pick on me . . . but I'm alright with that. I have no problem shedding a few tears over something that touches my heart.

After the movies, we stopped in at Verizon, to see if I could get my cell phone fixed. I must look a lot younger than I really am, because the 12 year old employee I got stuck with kept telling me how he was lucky to get the "good looking" one this time; as he and his co-workers like to compete against each other in this area, during working hours. It was hard not to appreciate his eagerness to help me out, and I ALMOST squeaked out of there with a new phone. But he finally had to "share" me with one of his co-workers, who figured out what the problem was. I was flattered that they both wanted to help me so badly; but I think I was just another notch on their belt for the day, and Lord only knows what grading system they use. I'm thinking it must be pretty lax. lol

Next on the list was a quick run to Wal-Mart, and then dinner time! We ate at one of Bayleigh's favorite restaurants; Jasmine's. Then we headed home. We made it back just in time for me to take the above photo of the moon at twilight. I had to switch over to manual focus on this one, as it was just too dark to zoom in.

I was again hoping to make it to bed early, but luck isn't on my side tonight! 4:45 a.m. is going to come way to quickly, but I'm hoping to get my run out of the way early. We've been under a heat advisory, so I want to get it in before it hits 90 degrees, if it ever gets UNDER 90 degrees tonight . . . wish me luck!

June 20, 2010

2010-06-21T00:02:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful I'm married to a man who is a wonderful father and husband. He almost always makes time for the kids and I, and I think it's nice that we celebrate dad's like him. (We love you sweetie!)

Before we headed off to Sunday School, the kids took Dave his Father's Day cards . . .

then we were off! I'm so glad Kasey got to come to church with us today. She's such a sweet little girl and we haven't got to see her very much lately.

The kids were pretty good today, and they even helped sing "Jesus Loves Me".

The rest of the afternoon was spent lazing around watching the US Open. For supper, I tried my hand at making coleslaw from scratch. I didn't think it turned out too terribly bad. While I was mixing it all up,

the boys decided to dress up as "cabbage heads". They're a silly lot, but you can't help but love them for it.

I was hoping to make it to bed by midnight, but I'm cutting it a little close trying to catch up from the wild weekend. Maybe I'll do better tomorrow.

June 19, 2010

2010-06-20T23:39:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for fun. And LOTS of it. Although the electricity went out last night about 2:30 a.m., and both kids ended up sleeping in bed with us AND staying awake until 5:00 a.m. tossing and turning until it came back on, I think today went rather well. Dave and Eli played "Old MacDonald" this morning, while I cleaned up the kitchen in preparation for more cake baking.

I didn't have any eggs, so Bayleigh and I made a trip to grandma's for a dozen, and she ended up staying at grandma's house, since Kasey was there and she hadn't got to play with her for a while.

On my way back home, I ended up taking some pictures of mom's flowers . . .

She always has the prettiest flowers.

And I'm just lucky if I can get ANYTHING to grow.

The weeds and wildflowers I do just fine with, though.

Dave fixed up some of the first squash out of the garden for lunch . . .

and Eli helped me bake the cakes and cupcakes for Bayleigh's bowling party tonight.

We had a few nice storms move in last night and during the day, so the temperatures weren't too bad.

We made it to the bowling alley just in time to get everything set up before the guests arrived . . .

and both kids had a blast bowling.

Thank goodness for bumper guards on the kids lane! The adults played in the next lane over, and we all had a great time. I even ended up with the high score for the adults . . . a whopping 112! We'll be joining the pro tour soon. lol

I really liked the fact that the bowling alley does their own little thing for the kid's birthday parties. Giving them a bowling pin for everyone to sign is such a unique gift and something I know Bayleigh will cherish for a long time to come!

We'll have to do that again some time!

June 18, 2010

2010-06-18T22:15:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for the tastes and signs of Summer.

Although I don't like the heat and humidity, there are certain benefits. Like "Bomb Pops" . . .

and vegetables ripening on the vine.

My mom came over and swiped the kids late this afternoon, so I headed outside to water the garden and do the chores.

I thought since I hadn't taken many pictures today, that I'd better snap a few before the sun went down on me.

Most of the morning, I was "holed up" in my retreat paying bills, balancing the checkbook and filing receipts and paperwork. It was a very productive morning, in a non-productive type of way. While I worked upstairs the kids worked downstairs picking up all their movies and toys, so they could go visit grandma later in the day. Grandma is a good form of motivation for them. lol

I also managed a few loads of laundry and got all the birthday dishes caught up. My hands will be wrinkled for a few days after all that dish washing.

I'm hoping to make it to bed again early tonight. Getting back on schedule is harder than I anticipated.

June 17, 2010

2010-06-18T15:38:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for the resilience of children. When they are disappointed or hurt because someone isn't able to make it to their birthday party; they accept it with very little questioning as to the reason why. Which is a good thing in this instance, because I don't really have an answer as to the reason why; other than a parent trying to manipulate a situation in order to spite others, no matter how badly it would hurt each of the children.

On a lighter note, I did my best to make it up to my sweet little birthday girl! Strawberry pancakes with French Vanilla Cool Whip on top for breakfast . . .

she got to help make her "kitty cat" birthday cake, and lick the beater . . .

I set her up on Dave's laptop to play some word games in the afternoon . . .

and then it was off to the last baseball game of the season!

She did a great job and hit her first ball when she came up to bat. I think she will have one more year with the pitching machine, before they move on to someone actually pitching the ball to them. The progress she's made this year has been phenomenal.

After the ball game, we headed straight home to start fixing the birthday meal. Hamburgers, hot dogs, potato salad, pasta salad, chips and dip and of course cake! We also had fresh peaches and strawberries that were yummy!

When we brought out the cake and told her to make a wish, it was several seconds before she finally blew out the candles. It makes me wonder what she was really wishing for. I hope whatever it was, that it comes true.

I thought it was great that she read each and every card . . .

and she was excited over each item (except the socks and underwear that grandma had gotten her . . . which she was a little embarrassed over).

It was nice that the neighbors came by to have cake with us, too. Attending this year's party were: Dave, me, Eli, Grandma and Grandpa Pitts, and Skip and Colette.

It was after 11:00 p.m. before we finally wrapped up the party and got the kids off to bed. Exhausting, but well worth it!

Happy 7th Birthday Bayleigh Grace!

*Note: I got up early this morning to get in my Pilates and my morning run before Dave left for work. I shaved a few minutes off of my 2 mile run. I brought my Mac downstairs and into the breakfast nook, and worked on my next Classroom in a Book Lesson, while I made pancakes and baked the birthday cake. If I weren't married already . . . I'd marry my Mac. lol *

June 16, 2010

2010-06-16T22:25:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful to be a stay at home mom. It gives me the freedom and flexibility to change my strict schedules and to-do's if I so desire.

And today was one of those days. Eli got up early and wanted me to lay down on the couch with him and watch Blue's Clues. So instead of unloading and reloading the dishwasher, I spent an hour or so cuddled up on the couch with Eli, searching for Blue's clues. By the time the movie was over, I was feeling pretty cozy where I was at, and wasn't really motivated to start cleaning yet, so I brought my Mac downstairs and started working on the next lesson in my "Classroom in a Book" for PSE8. I've finally figured out how to use some of the tools, and it's so much easier to "play" with those tools, when you're editing practise photos (and not the ones YOU'VE personally taken). There's a certain amount of freedom in that. lol (Are my perfectionistic tendencies showing?)

I made it about halfway through the lesson, and a few hours later, I decided to put it all down and finish the house cleaning project I had started yesterday morning, before my mom side-tracked me with the shopping trip. I finished mopping and dusting everything in the entryway, swept all the floors, took out all the trash, cleaned the dining room and cleaned the kitchen back up. All in all I feel it was a pretty productive day for me; even with the late start.

After Dave got home, he and the kids went out to "play" in the dirt. If all goes well, the ground will be worked up by next week.

I noticed that the flowers in my planter are really popping up now. I may have to do some thinning out, as the kids helped plant the seeds and they were pretty liberal with scattering them.

It was sunny and hot most of the day, but a nice storm blew through late this afternoon.

I manged to get out and take a few photos of the wildflowers . . .

and my yucca plant before the rains started coming down.

I was hoping to finish the lesson I was on, after supper, but it's now time to get the kids off to bed and I need to head there myself. That gives me something to look forward to tomorrow!

June 15, 2010

2010-06-15T23:34:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for a morning away with just my mom. Back before I got married and had children, my mom and I were inseparable. We hit every flea market and antique store we could find, and had a blast just spending time together.

Since the kids have come along, there is a lot less one on one time with my mom, but luckily Dave was off today and mom wanted to do some shopping for Bayleigh's upcoming birthday. So off we headed . . .

I love Warsaw's vintage charm. The old buildings off the waterfront, which are still used by various businesses; the antique architecture; and all the DETAIL that was lovingly put into each brick and stone.

I'm also one of those people who can find some form of amusement, anywhere I go. Today it was the above photo. The "Dam Taxi Service", which happened to be pulling some sort of car dolly. I followed it all the way to the gas station.

While I was fueling up, I noticed that the gas station I'd pulled into had some sort of greeter/loiterer (for lack of a better term). The "kid" was standing outside smoking a cigarette, with a black stocking cap on (it was like 90 degrees out today), a t-shirt, and a pair of long shorts that were about 5 sizes too big for him (he had to keep at least one hand in his pocket at all times just to hold his pants up). I watched him help a woman load some groceries in her car, and then he came out to chat with someone at the next gas pump (whom I'm assuming he knew, since they both must have used the same tailor to suit them up). Mom and I couldn't help but laugh as both guys walked back across the parking lot to enter the store, while holding their pants up. I mean COME ON guys . . . is it really all that comfortable to have to stand around holding up your pants, just because it happens to be some trend in fashion? I'm glad I'm an old fogie and don't care a whit for fashion trends.

After hitting Wal-Mart, Dollar Junction, Dollar General and the gas station, mom and I had just enough time left to hit one of the local antique stores. We zipped through in record time, and STILL managed to snag some goodies on the way through. (I got Bayleigh a croquet set for her birthday. I think it's something we can all enjoy!)

When I dropped mom off, she asked me to take a picture of the violet her friend Claudia had given her. It's absolutely gorgeous! Don't you think?

She also wanted me to take a picture of her "Missouri Primrose". It wasn't fully open when I drove by, but I did manage to snap a photo. I'll have to go back over sometime soon, when it's opened back up.

Dave disked and raked the yard some more, while the neighbors enjoyed entertaining (or being entertained) by the kids. Then it was off to the baseball game. Bayleigh has improved so much this season and I'm glad to see she's having so much fun with it.

I'm also glad to see good sportsmanship being shown at such a young age. These kids have a lot of years before them, and I hope they continue to show good manners and protocol, as they progress through school.

Oh! I almost forgot. I splurged on myself at the dollar store and bought a pair of fly swatters for a dollar. (Tis the season!) Aren't they cute?! I almost hate to use them! lol

*I have to put this down in writing, so I can be accountable to myself. ~ Note: Up early to do Pilates and ran 2 miles in under 20 minutes. Starting a new exercise schedule. Pilates: Monday-Friday, Running Tuesday and Thursday. Will add Jillian Michael's back in in July: Monday through Friday and run Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Will dump Jillian in August and run Monday through Friday. ~ That's the plan. Please hold me accountable by asking me if I've done my exercise for the day. *

June 14, 2010

2010-06-14T22:21:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for the "letting go" process.

Sometimes . . . no matter how hard you try to be nice and remain on friendly terms, there are just certain people who can't handle the friendship and completely turn their backs on you. It really hurts, when you think you will have a friendship that will last a lifetime, and then all of a sudden, for no reason I can fathom, they suddenly close the door on you. I hope whatever I have inadvertantly done, can be forgiven, and I in turn have already forgiven all the hurt feelings involved. I'm moving on now; the ties have been severed, and the bridge has been burned. There will be no going back.

Today I got back on schedule with my early morning Pilates, seven billion loads of laundry, and house cleaning. Monday I wash all the bedding, and today I even crammed in a few extra loads of regular laundry. It's all been folded and put away, so laundry is caught up for at least the next five minutes.

I also detail cleaned the kitchen, and washed the walls and floor in the breakfast nook area.

This little area seems to get cluttered up pretty fast, as Dave comes in from work and tosses his stuff on any available flat surface. (I've REALLY got to break him of this! lol)

Eli skipped his nap today and he's been pretty difficult all afternoon, so I'm shutting things down early and getting him to bed ASAP! I'm hoping he sleeps through the night tonight and wakes up with a better disposition!

June 13, 2010

2010-06-13T22:51:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for sun, sand and swimming.

We spent late afternoon at the beach.

But first I attempted to teach Sunday School with Eli at his worst. It didn't go so well, but at least Bayleigh said her memory verse without any problems.

Dave had today off, and while the kids and I were at church, he went over the newly leveled ground with the brush hog, and then with the disk. The next day he has off, he'll probably hook onto the rock rake again and we'll see how many rocks we can drag out of the yard.

Eli gets so absorbed in some things! He's a very focused kid and I wish some of his focus would rub off on me. I've been struggling with mine since April. Some days I think he's a little TOO focused, though.

After Eli finished his nap and Dave finished up with the disking, we all headed to the beach to cool off. It's been stifling hot all day!

The forecast is calling for rain the next few days, and I'm hoping some of it heads this way.

I'm going to attempt to get back to some type of schedule in the morning, so I'm off to bed early!

June 12, 2010

2010-06-12T22:28:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for inspiration and encouragement from across the globe! (THANK YOU LEE, MICKI, REBECCA, JENNIFER, BETTY, and anyone else I've inadvertently forgotten to name.)

After my dear friend Lee posted that she'd purged 2,000 photos from her iPhoto program, it spurred me into action. I'm one of those strange people that crave stability and what is known to me, and something in me rebels when the norm changes or I have to learn something new. On the other hand, I also like a good challenge, especially something techno that I can sink my teeth into. That's where my Mac comes into play. I'm a completely new Mac user (as of the end of April), and I'm learning mostly by trial and error.

I have to admit that PSE8 and Adobe Bridge CS4 are giving me a headache. Thank goodness for PSE's Classroom in a Book! Being a new Mac user, I probably didn't make huge strides today, but I DID manage to get through the intro of the book and am well on my way through the first section.

I think I've decided to start start fresh on the first of July, with transferring photos to my Mac, for organization and editing. That should give me plenty of time to "practise" with the lesson plans from the book, before I dive in with both feet. As for my old photos; they will be sorted, purged and edited on my old PC, using PSE7. Once I'm done with those, I'll save the edited versions to an online back up source (such as Shutterfly), and also to my external drive(s). I'll be starting with my oldest digital photos first, as they will be easier to purge and edit. (I didn't know a lot about taking good photos back then, so I'm sure there are some really, really bad ones. lol)

In the midst of learning how to use my PSE8 and Adobe Bridge CS4, I moved all of my photos from my PC onto my external hard drive . . .

and as I was waiting for my files to be moved, I heard it thunder, so I went out to watch the rains move in.

I made it outside just in time to physically SEE the rain moving toward me. It came down in sheets, but only lasted for a short while. We were really needing some rain. A little more would have been nice, but we'll take what we can get!

Bayleigh helped me pick up this morning, and Jess came over with the kids to pick up the remaining three kittens. (YAY!) She had initially asked me for two, but since she has three boys, she asked if she could take the third one, too. BLESS YOU JESSICA! This leaves us with one mommy cat, two tom cats, and the two little fuzzy kittens that Bayleigh wanted to keep. I'm thinking a trip to the vet with all the females will be in order here before too long . . . we'll see.

June 11, 2010

2010-06-11T22:29:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful that it doesn't bother me to get my hands dirty occassionally.

Or the rest of me for that matter. I ended up spending most of my day outside working on the yard.

I think between Dave and Eli, they've managed to get the front yard smoothed out and sloped away from the house, so we're hoping this keeps the rain waters from seeping under the house. (Not that we've had to worry about rain the past few weeks . . .)

Dave used mom's tractor and the rock rake to finish things up, after he and I raked and smoothed everything by hand.

The dozer man also showed up this morning about 9:00 a.m. to push some trees and stumps and smooth out the kids play area, so we can get the chain link fence up. Above is the "before" photo . . .

and now it's all ready to start putting up fence! It will be so nice to have a fenced in area that the kids can play in, without me having to worry about them getting too close to the highway. Slowly but surely we're making progress on the place.

Keith (the dozer man) did an EXCELLENT job of clearing things off and making it all look nice. He finished clearing over half the property in eight hours and even gave Eli a ride on the track loader. He also kept the kids occupied most of the morning, just by being there. Bayleigh and Eli were both pressed up against the glass on the door, watching him push trees and brush for at least two hours! What a great form of babysitting! A bit expensive for a babysitter, but whatever works.

It's been another busy day. No great photos, but maybe tomorrow I can remedy that and get outside to take some "FUN" photos.

I think I'm going to bed early tonight and sleeping in tomorrow. I've got a lot of catching up to do, since Eli has been waking up several times a night this past week. I'm not sure what the problem is, but I think it's time to get the kids back on a strict schedule (and me too!).

June 10, 2010

2010-06-10T23:28:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for chewing gum. Bayleigh has been helping do chores around the house in exchange for chewing gum. I'm thinking it's a pretty sweet trade off.

It was overcast most of the day, but on the way to Bayleigh's baseball game, the sun broke through the clouds for a little while.

Today was supposed to be their last game of the season, but due to the rainouts, we have two make up games next week. They still handed out the trophies and supplied the kids with treats this evening, though. Eli munched on his chips during the game.

This kids were all full of antics this evening and I have several cute photos to edit tomorrow. (I just snagged a few out of the batch for today's post.)

On the way home I asked Dave to stop so I could take a few pictures of these cone flowers. I've been meaning to stop and do this for quite some time, but time hasn't permitted me to. I would still like to make another trip back for some close ups . . .

We made it home as the sun was going down.

I managed to get the living room cleaned up today, along with keeping up with dishes and laundry, so I'm considering it a good day indeed. Staying caught up with laundry and dishes seems to be the biggest task of the summer.

June 9, 2010

2010-06-09T20:24:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for FOCUS. That one little word has made such an impact on my daily life.

Eli woke me up at 3:00 a.m. and I finally got him back to sleep around 4:30. Since I was already up, I just spent a little quiet time on the couch, looking out the window and listening to the little birds as they started their own day.

It seems like I don't take nearly enough time just soaking things in like that, but I'm thinking it's about time I got my "focus" back, and started journaling again. There are so many things that run through my head on any given day, and yet the majority of them are lost in the busyness of life. I*need*to*slow*down.

As I was getting ready to take some photos of what I accomplished today, I looked out to see the kittens sleeping in the chair outside the back door. So I decided to play around in manual mode, and see if I could get the little buggers to cooperate.

These are all SOOC (straight out of the camera), with a highlight on contrast in PSE7.

I thought they turned out rather interesting and this was my five minutes of fun for the day.

While the kids played "camp out" in Bayleigh's room . . .

I concentrated on getting the laundry done, and getting it all put away. Since the majority of the clothes were mine and Dave's, I decided to go ahead and clean out my side of the closet and my dresser. I ended up with two garbage bags full of clothes to donate.

I've come to the conclusion that nothing will change me at this point in my life. I'm a jeans/cut-offs and t-shirts (or sweatshirts) kind of gal. Although I like pretty, stylish clothes, I rarely wear them. They make me feel uncomfortable and they're not who I really am. I saved a few nice dresses and skirts for church and those rare occassions when I need one to dress up for something, but other than that . . . my closet now reflects who I truly am. As it should!

The above sight is almost miraculous at my house. Three empty laundry baskets. No clothes to wash, fold or put away . . .

That means, tomorrow I can PLAY! (Or at least concentrate on cleaning another location.)

June 8, 2010

2010-06-08T22:40:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for 3:45 a.m. That's the time I got up this morning, in order to get everything done that I needed to get done, before we left for our 8:00 a.m. dentist appointments.

Some storms moved in this morning and it ended up raining on us a few times, while we were out and about. As I was getting my teeth cleaned, Dave took the kids to the local park, and then we did a switch-a-roo and I took the kids back to the park while Dave had his teeth cleaned.

Then we made a mad dash home so the kids could change clothes, and we were back on the road to Columbia, so he could pick up his transcripts from M.U..

Jesse Hall is a beautiful old building, and I was looking forward to taking some more pictures of it, while Dave finished his paperwork up.

The kids and I had fun on the third floor.

So much beautiful architecture; stained glass, colored inlaid tiles, open balconies . . .

I could spend days soaking it all up. Even the sidewalks are inspiring.

Nowadays you have to PAY to park on campus, but I'm sure there was a time, not very long ago, that you didn't.

And I remember watching Van Halen in concert at the Hearnes, back when I was in college. They always put on a great show.

The lines of the bridge across the Missouri River always seem to draw me in;

and I always manage to get a shot or two, just for fun, so I grabbed these two on the way back home.

Our day wasn't quite over yet, though. We JUST made it to Bayleigh's baseball game with a few moments to spare. We didn't have time to run to the house for her uniform shirt, so she just played as she was.

She got two good hits and Eli cheered her on.

After ice cream at Mr. Ed's with the rest of the team, we finally made it home around 8:30 p.m. Ever so humble, there's truly no place like home!

I'm planning on another early night, and I may even sleep in tomorrow morning. It will be nice to have a few days at home. I've missed it!

June 7, 2010

2010-06-07T21:44:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful that I didn't have to leave the house today. I truly am an introvert.

Most mornings this is how you'll find me checking email and catching up with blogs. With my little guy sitting on my lap "helping" me out.

I spent the majority of my day doing laundry and catching up on the dishes. It seems like we've been out and about for weeks now, and I just needed a day at home to catch up with all the regular mundane things that I haven't been able to accomplish, while we've been gone.

So today's photos are nothing special. A little wildflower above and my Gazinia below.

I'm also trying to finish up taking some photos for my "Pieces of Me" project. I'll post the finished pages, as I complete them, but it's going to be quite an undertaking.

I'm planning on getting to bed early tonight. BEFORE 10:30 p.m. I've got a dentist appointment at 8:00 a.m. tomorrow, and then a long drive to Columia and back. Hope we can all make it back in time for Bayleigh's baseball game tomorrow evening. Wish me luck!

June 6, 2010

2010-06-07T00:38:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for unexpected blessings.

We got around this morning, all set to take the kids to Silver Dollar City.

However, just south of Buffalo, the Jeep died on us. So the rest of the afternoon was spent calling my brother for a ride, and getting things in order to pick up the poor Jeep. Thank goodness for the local U-Haul.

I had challenged myself to take photos using my little Nikon Coolpix 4600 today (the above photos are with my Nikon), but I just couldn't stay away from my DSLR. (It's like an appendage to me.) My little point and shoot doesn't do too badly, however . . .

I can definitely tell the difference in my photos, when I switch from one to the other.

Of course, there really isn't any comparison in my eyes. I love my Canon . . .

although I'd still like to play around with a Nikon, in the D.S.L.R. variety.

My passion for taking pictures, has expanded the way I view things. I notice details that would otherwise get overlooked, and I sense the moods and emotions of those I photograph. This in itself is a gift.

This turtle for instance was a bit afraid of me at first; hesitant and on guard, yet not willing to back down unless he felt threatened. He must have sensed that I wasn't going to hurt him, after the first 15 photos. lol

And although I'm far from mastering manual exposure mode, sometimes there is nothing that gets the job done better.

After Dave and Eli got home from picking up and dropping off the Jeep and the U-Haul trailer, my mom came over to take both kids for a visit. Dave and I thought it was a perfect afternoon for doing a little target practise on our little range.

A bucket full of ammo . . .

eye, and ear protection . . .

and we were off and shooting.

It has been awhile since I shot, but my aim is still good. My form on the other hand . . . STINKS. I'll be working on that over the next few months though.

Everytime my hubby gets a camera in his hands, and I download his photos, there is always at least two or three photos of my backside. He thinks he's funny . . . but I think otherwise. He's starting to give me a complex.

It's nice to know that although I'm getting older, all the training I went through hasn't completely been forgotten. But now . . . instead of serving the public; I'm protecting my family. I can't say that I miss being a public servant. And just think of the stories I can tell my grandkids some day.

Before we left the range, I snapped a few photos of the ginormous batch of raspberry bushes that grow off of the northwest side of our property. They are over 10 feet tall and take up a lot of ground. It doesn't look like it will be too much longer before we can harvest some! I can't wait!

Tomorrow I'm planning on getting back on my 4:45 a.m. schedule again. We've got a crazy week ahead of us, and I need to find my groove again. Hope the Guinness Extra Stout that I'm polishing off right now, doesn't effect that wake up call. lol

June 5, 2010

2010-06-05T22:16:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for "new" old shoes, and girls that know how to laugh and have fun.

I ran my second 5k today. A Relay for Life run to raise money for cancer research and treatments for those in the area who need it. As some of you know, my little brother is a cancer survivor. He's been in remission for 4 years now, and he's going strong.

My newest pair of running shoes is completely worn out, so I brought out my old shoes for today's run; added new insoles and they were like walking on air. I'm glad I hadn't thrown them out yet. I ran the three miles in a little under 30 minutes, and came in 8th, which I thought was pretty good for this old gal.

After the run, Dave and the kids met me down below the dam, to play at the park, and then I picked up some groceries for tonight's 4-H dinner at the local community building.

We had lots of food, and several locals stopped by to have dinner with us all.

The older 4-H girls helped serve, and I believe they all had a good time laughing and cracking jokes. (They're really quite hilarious.)

I made it home right as the sun was setting.

It's been a long day and tomorrow is going to be even longer and more challenging, so I'm hoping to make it to bed at a decent hour tonight. Here's hoping!

June 4, 2010

2010-06-05T00:04:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for time well spent.

Dave had a one hour computer class to take today. We all went with him, so I could take the kids to the park, while he was in class.

I really like all the architecture in town, and I had a good opportunity (there weren't any cars behind me) to take a picture of the North Ward School.

Then it was off to the park. We spotted Mr. Peacock, right as we entered; and he even posed for us!

Then it was off to the slides!

Eli is pretty adept at climbing, so I just had Bayleigh follow him up each time, to make sure he didn't fall.

Then we walked around and said hello to all the ducks, geese and swans . . .

rested on the rocks . . .

and explored the banks of the pond.

When Dave's class was over, we ran a few of his errands, and then stopped by our favorite restaurant in town (El Rodeo) to eat.

Eli even likes their salsa.

After we ate, a few more errands and grocery shopping were completed; then on the way back home, we stopped to renew our concealed carry permits, and I pre-paid for tomorrow's Relay for Life 5k run. When we got home, Dave took a nap while I cleaned up the kitchen and started baking and cooking for tomorrow's 4-H community dinner.

After Dave woke up, he went to work outside again . . . smoothing more dirt and putting the kids to work. (Not that they minded playing in the dirt.)

I cooked/baked until 9:00 p.m. and then we all

went outside to enjoy roasting hot dogs, and eating S'mores.

I almost got this one in under the wire, but I missed it by a couple of minutes! I'm off to bed, so I will be rested up for tomorrow's 5k at 9:00 a.m. Wish me luck!

June 3, 2010

2010-06-03T22:39:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful play dates and empty beaches.

Bayleigh had a friend over to play this morning, and he brought along a few things to keep them both entertained.

They played a little of this and a little of that, and then they went outside for a few hours.

Dave watched the kids, while I got my morning run in. My knee hurt today, and I almost didn't go, but I refused to talk myself out of it. I may regret that later, but tomorrow I'll drag out my old knee brace. (Getting old DOES have a few drawbacks . . .)

When I got back from my run, the kids all wanted to play inside for a while, so I tried to keep Eli out of the middle of things, so the two older kids could enjoy their play date in peace. They ended up settling in to watch a few movies before lunch, and I rested on the couch with Eli.

After lunch, Landon's care giver came to pick him up; Dave went over to borrow the tractor and blade from my dad and Eli, Bayleigh and I settled in to take an afternoon nap. (At first Eli was upset, because he wanted to ride the tractor with Dave, but it didn't take him long to finally fall asleep.)

Dave got quite a bit done. The goal was to build a slope away from the house, so when it rains, water doesn't seep under the house. We'll see how that works.

He also flattened out all the ruts from last year's wood hauling trips. MUCH better. Plus I won't have to mow the lawn for a while.

After everyone had taken their naps, we all headed off to the beach for the first time this year.

The beach we usually visit was still closed, due to high water and contamination, but the one across the lake was open, so we headed there.

We ended up having the whole beach to ourselves!

The temperature was ALMOST perfect!

Of course the kids had a great time splashing and playing in the water. I played for a little while and then decided to get out and take some photos.

This particular beach is a mix of creek gravel and sand,

and there are lots of trees at the shoreline to give you a break from the sunshine.

And although I'm not a flip flops or sandals person, it's always a good thing to have a pair on while you're at these small beaches. People throw all kinds of nasty stuff down on the ground, and I wouldn't want anyone to step on a needle or some other paraphernalia, that some drug user has disposed of.

Things have changed so much from when I was a kid. And not all of it is for the better.

June 2, 2010

2010-06-03T00:29:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for the ability to push myself beyond my body's limits. My morning run was a little bit farther this morning and I ran more than I walked today. One day at a time, one foot in front of the other . . . it will all come together some day. Probably not in time for Saturday's 5k, but some day.

It thundered and threatened to rain on us all day, but it didn't actually happen until late this afternoon.

Right as the sun was setting I captured what I could of this gorgeous rainbow.

(My photos never do them justice.)

And as I turned back toward the house, I decided to snap a few shots of the sun going down.

I spent most of my day detail cleaning the house, since one of Bayleigh's friends will be over for a play date bright and early tomorrow. I finally finished mopping the floor in the hallway around midnight. I'm glad I caught a nap this afternoon, but now I can't seem to wind down. Guess I need to search out a few tunes to lull me to sleep . . .

June 1, 2010

2010-06-01T22:25:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for a good attitude, and the ability to say I'm sorry when I've inadvertently hurt someone's feelings by being honest. I truly didn't mean to step on anyone's toes, but when they asked my opinion on a certain topic, I gave them my blunt, undiluted answer. The way I see it . . . if you don't want to hear the truth, then don't ask my opinion. You might not hear what you want to hear, and I'm not going to sugar coat things, or lie to you, just so you can justify your actions.

I woke up REALLY early today (somewhere around 4:00 a.m.) because Jewels had gotten out of her dog pen somehow and was chasing cats and kittens all over the deck and making a HUGE ruckus. I had planned to sleep in until 6:00 this morning, but you know what they say about well laid plans and good intentions . . .

Since I was up so early, I went ahead and did my Pilates, and after Dave got back from his bike ride, I went for a run.

After lunch, Dave and I dropped the kids off at my mom's for an hour, so we could run some errands in town and get our CCW renewed.

After we picked the kids back up, I was hoping to get Eli to lay down and take a nap with me, but the phone and the doorbell kept vying for attention, so there was no nap this afternoon!

Bayleigh had another baseball game tonight, and this time I didn't have to help coach, so I had a chance to take a few photos. Her little buddy is coming over on Thursday for a play date, so I'm going to be heading off to bed a little early tonight, so I can get a jump on the housework tomorrow. Lots to do, to get things back on schedule!

May 31, 2010

2010-06-01T00:25:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for those who have, and DO risk their lives each and every day to protect our freedom. Your sacrifices are greatly appreciated by me and my family.

I'm back on track today. Up at 4:30 a.m., and I hit the floor running. I got my housework somewhat caught up, and then we decided to take advantage of some of the Memorial Day sales in the "big town". Liz (the pretzel gal) was nice enough to let me take some photos of her making pretzels at one of the mall kiosks. (*I always feel weird asking total strangers if I can take their photos . . . but I'm getting over it. lol)

After our mall shopping spree, we ate at a new restaurant (at least for us). Romano's Macaroni Grill. Can you guess what Eli had? Yep! Macaroni and cheese.

I had the mushroom raviolli and it was delicious! (The only thing that would have made it any better was a little touch of spinach and some bacon!) Bayleigh had a cheese pizza and Dave had some kind of chicken dish. All of them were pretty tasty, and we'll probably drop in again sometime soon.

By the time we were leaving town, the sun was setting, but it left a nice reflection off of the clouds back to the East. I caught this photo on the go, out the passenger window of the Jeep.

As for the shopping . . . I HATE shopping for clothes. (It's mostly the
"trying on" that I dislike.) I haven't truly been shopping since I was pregnant with Bayleigh, almost 7 years ago. I've clothed myself with garage sale finds and hand me downs from friends and relatives. But the past few months I've noticed that none of my clothes fit anymore.

I've dropped from a size 6 to a size 1 (never thought I'd see THAT size again). All that exercise seems to be paying off.

So today I splurged on myself, and hubby did too! We both got several new outfits, and all for under $150. I was shocked! The last time I bought new jeans they were over $60 a pair, so this was quite a pleasant surprise for both of us. Thank goodness for Memorial Day Sales and coupons!

I couldn't find any running shoes that I really liked, so I settled for a new set of insoles. I've got another 5k coming up this Saturday, and I'm hoping for a little nicer weather this time around.

May 30, 2010

2010-05-30T20:48:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for bits and pieces of time and trips down memory lane.

While I was digging up old photos for the girls to scrapbook yesterday, I ran across a batch of photos from my "before kids" era. Dave and I were dating at the time, so I'm guessing I was about 23 or 24 in these photos. My how time flies! I hadn't really looked at them until this afternoon, when I was weeding through old photos to scrapbook . . . and all I can say is . . . the person you see in these photos isn't me. lol

Eli fell asleep on my lap during church this morning. And my mom ended up kidnapping both kids this afternoon, so I had the afternoon to myself. Kind of . . . I had my lunch in the oven and was watching "Sea Change" with Tom Selleck, when the neighbor called. I had to run down to her house for a few moments. My lunch was cold and it was 3:00 p.m., before I made it back home to finally eat and finish watching my movie. Such is my life.

I wore my "new" shoes to church for the first time. I picked these up at a flea market for $2.00 and they fit PERFECT. I like finding a good bargain like this.

Dave called this afternoon to let me know he had taken two of the kittens to give to one of his co-workers, and shortly after that, the insurance adjuster called wondering if he could stop by and pick up a couple. Four kittens down and three to go! As soon as he left, I went over to pick up the kids from my mom's house. She has three new ducks, that are adorable.

Eli was running around in his underwear (since he soaked himself with the water hose), and Bayleigh was blowing bubbles on the porch.

I think she gets just as much fun out of popping them . . .

as she does creating them. It's good to be a kid.

On the way back home with the kids, I noticed the clouds swirling around in the sky. I heard thunder this afternoon, so I'm not sure if we'll be getting any rain or not tonight. It would be nice if it would rain just a little to cool things down for a day or so.

I finished my layout early today and I'm finishing up my blog a bit early, so I might even make it to bed at a decent hour. What a novel idea!

May 29, 2010

2010-05-29T22:27:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for children. Life would be rather dull and unexiting without them.

I had planned on catching up with some sleep this weekend, but apparently everyone else has other plans for me. Like babysittting my niece . . . which I don't mind doing at all. I'd just like some advance notice, if you know what I mean. (HELLO! I have a phone, and you have my number . . . a little jingle ahead of time would be nice, little bro.)

The girls reaped the benefit of my morning cleaning spree. Kasey has been dying to scrapbook, but hasn't had any photos to scrapbook with, so I let her and Bayleigh go through my "throw aways", and they both found several pictures of themselves, along with some flowers and horses to scrapbook with. I also found some empty photo albums and I gave two to each of the girls to put their "to be scrapbooked" photos in. You'd have thought they'd both died and gone to heaven.

And did I mention cleaning spree? Let me make you all feel better here . . . see the above and below photos? Yeah. Aren't you glad this isn't your house?! lol

I had one goal today. The file cabinet that I was going to keep in my retreat to store photos in, just didn't fit the way I'd hoped, so I planned on moving it to the spare bedroom. However, when I opened the door I stepped into a hot mess. The kids have obviously been playing in here and re-arranging things.

So before I could move the file cabinet, I had some cleaning to do.

I did manage to get a good portion of it done, but I still have a ways to go.

I DID get the file cabinet moved. I just have a few odds and ends to put away, and a springy horse to return to it's owner. (Kasey let us borrow it for Bayleigh and Eli, since she didn't like it.) And I found some more stuff to move on to another home. It will be nice to get this room back in order again!

There now . . . don't you feel much better knowing how awful my house gets?

May 28, 2010

2010-05-28T22:16:00.001-05:00

Today I'm thankful for resiliency. I had to make some hard, but necessary decisions today, however I know that with time these hurts will heal, too.

I let the kids play in the sprinkler's, while I watered the garden this afternoon. I may have even gotten a little soaked myself . . . There's nothing like running through the sprinkler's on a hot day . . . no matter how young or old you are.

After we came in from the soaking, we all took a shower. It didn't take Eli long to fall asleep, draped over the arm of the chair.

Bayleigh got sent to her room for disobeying me, while I worked on cleaning up the kitchen and getting supper ready.

It was another lazy day and I spent several hours engrossed in Gayle Lynds' new novel "The Book of Spies". (I'm really enjoying it, by the way; and I'll be staying up late and finishing it off in bed tonight.)

Tomorrow will be a better day.

May 27, 2010

2010-05-27T23:45:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for air conditioning and the beauty that surrounds me every day.

Hubby decided to put the window air conditioning unit in my retreat this morning (THANK YOU SWEETHEART!), while I played games with the kids. After lunch, Eli napped on me, while I read one of the books I checked out at the library yesterday.

Then it was time to get ready for Bayleigh's baseball game. One of the regular coaches wasn't able to make it today, so I ended up filling in.

The kids got fruit roll-ups for a snack after the game and Bayleigh's happened to be an aqua blue. Here she is, showing her attitude.

On the way home from the game, I pulled off the road and took a picture of the sun going down.

And after I got home, Bayleigh decided she wanted to go see grandma (since grandma had just been over and took Eli to her house). I took my camera along and snapped a few pictures of the wildflowers growing along the side of the road . . .

and some more of the flowers that my mom has growing around her house.

And here is Eli showing HIS attitude. He is fond of saying that he doesn't like me and he wants to stay with grandma all day and all night, then he climbs the hill over the cellar and sticks his tongue out at me. It didn't take long for his attitude to change, when I mentioned going home for watermelon, though. He grabbed my hand and basically pulled me home. I'm thinking we're going to have to do some serious work on his attitude this Summer, though. There comes a time when it just needs nipped in the bud, and there's no time like the present!

May 26, 2010

2010-05-26T23:37:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for off the wall, unpredictably fun days. Instead of getting out of bed at my normal time . . . I forced myself to sleep in. I ended up staying in bed until 9:00 a.m. (Which I haven't done in YEARS!) Dave brought me breakfast in bed . . .

and then I took the kids outside to play. Eli has been looking forward to warm weather for quite some time. This little battery powered tractor is his favorite toy. He rides it for HOURS . . . or until the battery runs down.

Then Bayleigh wanted a little of my time . . . so we played a game of Sorry. Then we all cooled off, ate lunch and rested, until the weather cooled down a bit. We had to run some errands in town, so we decided to take the kids to the park while we were in the area.

The beaches are all still underwater, and there is an ecoli warning out until the water receeds some more. There were lots of vultures sitting around the tower at the dam, and I thought they would make an interesting shot.

We ended up going to the park, where Bayleigh and I ran the 5k in April. While Dave supervised the kids on the playground equipment, I went for another run with my camera in tow this time around.

This is just about where the course begins. More of a cross country style course, with gravel and dirt.

As I was running, I caught a glimpse of a heron off to my right. I stopped, backed up and tried to get a shot. You can barely see him, just left of the tree towards the center. (Wish I'd had my zoom lens on me.)

There were a few stairs . . .

and lots of beautiful scenery. I'm glad the sun was shining this time. Last time I ran this track it was pouring down rain!

There are lots of curves, LOTS of inclines,

and several varieties of wildlife running around the area. I made the 3 miles in 35 minutes, even with a few stops to take photos. So I'm thinking that wasn't too bad.

When I made it back, I stopped down where they let the water out of the dam. The little bridge that crosses over to the other side was under water, but it didn't look like it was deturing the fishermen . . .

The kids played on this (a Nikon would have come in handy on this shot! lol) . . .

and then we headed off to the ice cream stand for a little something to cool us down.

Next we stopped at the library, and then it was on to the grocery store! Bayleigh and I did a little dance in the meat isle of the grocery store, but I made sure no one was watching. lol

It was a fun and enjoyable day all around. It's nice to throw the schedules out the window every now and again, but tomorrow it's time to get back on track.