Vita di Amore

Tampa Bay Classic at OneTrueMedia.com

2012-01-08T13:56:00.001-08:00

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Tampa Bay Classic

2012-01-08T12:12:00.000-08:00

Today was Faith's first meet. We had to be up at 5:30 to be on the road by 6:30. The meet was held at St. Leo University. It was about an hour drive. You could feel the girls excitement when she walked through the door... lots of smiles and hugs. The first event was bars. Faith hit her toes on the fly away during warm-up, a few tears were shed. When she actually competed, the first half was awesome, as she held that handstand- I held my breath. The last part, she smacked her toes again. Lots more tears. If you watch the bar as she dismounts it vibrates. Ouch!!! Faith is tough, she doesn't cry easily, so you know it had to hurt. She still scored an 8.425 despite the fall. Next time, she will see that high score. Her goal was 9.2.

Next up was beam. I think every parent that has a child competing in gymnastics holds their breath during this event. For those who don't realize, these girls are throwing tricks on a 4 inch wide beam. Her beam was amazing- a few wobbles. She scored a 9.225. Her goal was 9.0.

Then came my favorite- floor. She has always been a strong tumbler. The first time walking out they had trouble with her music. She sat in her pose for 24 seconds before her coach pulled her off the floor. It took a few minutes before all the kinks were worked out. I was hoping she wasn't going to have to perform with no music. She had a great routine scoring a 9.35. Her goal on floor 9.3.

Last event was vault. I can never capture video because it is always tucked away in a back corner. Faith weighs a whoopin' 68 lbs- so she needs to hit that spring board hard. She looked good. She took a few extra steps. She scored- 8.425. Her goal was 9.0- next time she'll have it.

Her final score was 35.45 which qualified her for State. She placed well for her group. She competed against 14 other girls in her session. Vault- she didn't place, Bars- 5th place, Beam-2nd place, and Floor-2nd place. She placed 3rd place AA- (all-around). It was a good meet to start the season. The next meet will be in Orlando ESPN at Disney.

I am so impressed with LeFleur's. She came in with some trouble on her bars. Her giant has been a struggle, but within a week, Steve had her confidence up. The first time I saw it in a practice, I was almost in tears. No more froggy moves. The other coaches- Alicia, Amanda, Lisa, Billy, and Jeff have also been such a strong support since we came to them. They made her transition easy. Thanks LeFleur's!

Fourth of July Idaho/Oregon at OneTrueMedia.com

2011-08-11T13:44:00.001-07:00

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Gator Camp

2011-06-16T19:52:00.000-07:00

Faith had a fantastic time at Gator camp this last week at UF. Once we registered, we spent the next couple hours helping the girls decorate their dorm room in a Hawaiian theme. She gained many new skills and accomplished many personal goals she set for herself. She developed new friendships with gymnasts and coaches. She was chosen as 'Camper of the Day'- Tuesday, and 'Camper of the Week' today. They are chosen by the hard work they put in as gymnast, how they treat their fellow teammates. Basically, going above and beyond. Her team, "The Fancy Flamingo's" won 1st place for the spirit award.

The video I made is pictures for the first 1:15, then has the dance they performed. As I watched the girls you could tell those who were comfortable in front of crowds. It was fun watching Faith- she really had a good time with the song.

Faith Gator Camp 2011 at OneTrueMedia.com

2011-06-16T19:51:00.001-07:00

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Universal Family Trip at OneTrueMedia.com

2011-03-29T18:39:00.001-07:00

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Simple Woman

2010-11-28T07:51:00.001-08:00

Hosted by Peggy@http://thesimplewoman.blogspot.com*****************************

Outside my window~It's sunny, but with a chill in the air. The bay is calm and smooth.

I am thinking~About all I want to accomplish in this coming week. How hard it's going to be to give up soda.

I am thankful for~Wonderful friends.

From the learning room~It's quiet right now. Monday will get back on task from the Thanksgiving break.

I am wearing~ Capri sweat pants, and a yellow tank.

I am creating~ A new blog page and post.

I am going~ I am going to kick back today and watch a movie, maybe some football.

I am reading~A Midwife's Story- the friend that gave it to me was a midwife to the Amish.

I am hoping~For this month to pass by quickly. Well, until the 23rd when the kids arrive. Then I hope time stops.

I am hearing~Multiple sounds. Music from my son's room. The Sykping ring from my daughter's room and football in the living room.

Around the house~ We pulled out all the Christmas decorations. We will start decorating slowly. We decided on a fake tree. It's just not the same.

One my favorite things~Holiday dinner's when friends and family crowd my house. The sound of children's laughter.

Plans for the week~ School, decorate the house, write goals for the coming weeks.

. Faithy and Dominic from Christmas 2008. I am so looking forward to this coming Christmas!!

Faithy's 11th Birthday

2010-09-20T08:55:00.001-07:00

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Faith's birthday

2010-09-20T07:06:00.001-07:00

We had a really good time on Faith's birthday. It was her golden birthday, she turned 11 on the 11th, so I set the party for 11:00. We started her day at Let Them Eat Cake. The girls started off getting their aprons and munching on veggie's. Which was good considering all the sugar that was available later in the party. Then they all got to make their own pizza's. They rolled out the dough and put whatever toppings they wanted on. Most the girls chose pepperoni. While the pizza was cooking they set out to decorate their own cakes.

While Chef Jason was laying out the candy and frosting he was singing the song from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory...who could make a rainbow. After sampling candy they set out decorating their cakes, many of the girls got very creative. Some were simplistic, while others went for how much candy can they fit on the cake. After they were done they boxed them up and got ready for lunch. It smelled so delicious. He also sent out a large salad and chicken fingers. They finished up the party by singing Happy Birthday to Faith and eating cake.

Once we got home she opened all the presents. She received many gift cards, so shopping was next on the agenda. We ended up valet parking because the weather looked nasty and there were no close parking spots. The International Mall is amazing. She was on a mission so we hit Sephora first. This make-up store had everything, she had a blast shopping. Then it was on to Aeropostle, Abercrombie and Justice. She knew what she wanted and the cards were spent quickly. I kicked $10 to $20 extra at each store. We stopped at Starbucks on the way out.

That evening she chose Crabby Bills in Clearwater. She chowed down on king crab and clam chowder. The restaurant brought her out a piece of cheesecake for dessert. It was a fun day with friends and part of the family.

Summer at OneTrueMedia.com

2010-08-28T06:55:00.001-07:00

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Back to School

2010-08-28T05:05:00.000-07:00

Living in Florida is wonderful, but I do miss the changes in the trees that I would be seeing soon in Oregon. Waking up to the crisp mornings and sitting by the fireplace with a cup of something warm to start your day.

We are back in the swing of school. Faith is starting the fifth grade. You can check out her blog to see the curriculum we chose this year at weeziesblogspot.blogspot.com
She is going to try to keep her blog updated with how her school year is going, and what is new with gymnastics.

Elliott is a senior this year. He will be completing his senior year online. The public schools were not willing to give us the time of day, and wanted to have him repeat his Junior year because they would not accept his Oregon credits. We felt this was ludicrous! He can work as fast or slow as he wants to complete. He would like to be done by January. He is working on getting his license and just landed a job as lifeguard at the base. He also just finished working on a music video in Orlando, it was a great experience for him.

Gregg has been home awhile now which has been nice. With his career you never know when he will be gone again. We have about three more years in the military before he can retire.

Life in Florida at OneTrueMedia.com

2010-06-29T19:12:00.001-07:00

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It's Been Awhile

2010-06-28T08:15:00.000-07:00

Things have been crazy at the Ramsdell house. So much has changed since I last wrote. Gregg was gone for almost six months overseas. Again, it is tough every time he leaves since he isn't the run of the mill solider. Not that any man or woman that serves isn't a blessing to our country. I made it through with the help of friends and my strong willed spirit. Those days I felt weak, I dug deep because I knew I had a job to keep the households running and Faith on schedule with school.

We had a chance to visit some good friends in Oklahoma, so we got our snow fix we miss being home in Oregon. Misty and Shannon are great people and it's always hard to say goodbye.

As of May 1st, Elliott has come to join us in Florida. It has been so much fun! We have an amazing relationship and have a great time hanging together. He said the sweetest thing to me today. A few friends asked him if he was making any friends,(which he has) but he told them I don't need friends... I have my mom. I wanted to record that moment, that's rare to hear from a seventeen year old's mouth. He will be a senior next year and will complete it online. We tried hard to get him in a public school, but the public school system here was very unaccommodating. Gee, what a shock! The virtual school will still have teachers that instruct him via the web.

Life in Florida has been wonderful. We have met and made friends with many people from all over the world. People from France, Greece, Albania, Switzerland, Holland, Italy. It is good for the kids to grow up being exposed to so many cultures. It is also nice to hop on a plane and be in New York or D.C. in a couple hours.

I am sorry it has taken me so long to update this blog. It just seems that everyday life keeps you so busy and time flys by.

Faith's First Mock Meet Level 7

2009-12-19T11:19:00.000-08:00

Faithy had her first mock meet today. She has been on pins and needles because her coach had final say if she could compete today. She had an x-ray on her knee this week. She has tendinitis and water is starting to gather at the knee. Lately, she has been the Motrin queen along with ice and heat. She did compete but quite wasn't on her game. She had to scratch vault, but when they did awards they gave her an honary mention ribbon. We are taking some time off until after the first and give her knee some time to heal. The Optional season is starting and she needs time to heal. The first one will be Jan 19 and she will finish in April. She is starting culinary classes Monday, at Let Them Eat Cake. Chef Jason has some great classes and she went to his school for a week a few years back. This next week should be fun and she'll bring home lots of goodies. Monday we are going together for the mother/daughter class.

Today was the first time ever she fell on beam, but being the little trooper got right back up.

Ramblings of an Exhausted Wife

2009-11-12T11:06:00.000-08:00

It all started a few days ago. My daughter was losing her voice, but I chalked it up to her competition and sleepover. By that evening, she was having a hard time swallowing. By midnight, she is in tears. She is very tough, so when the tears flow I know she is hurting. Gregg had to get up really early, so I decided to take her to emergency. The closest one is about thirty minutes away. I assured Gregg I would be fine and would call him when I got there. I knew that there was a children’s hospital past the Buccaneers Stadium. Walking from the parking lot to the hospital were some interesting characters. I kept my key in between my fingers just in case. She was treated for the onset of strep. I got about an hour sleep that night. I know Mom’s can relate when you’re worried about your kid.
She got a new puppy recently. Harley is a West Highland Terrier. He is an early Christmas present. He loves my daughter to pieces. They are attached at the hip. I had to kennel him because he would leave her alone. I decided to bathe him when I noticed these little black things on him. They were ticks! Not just one, like twenty. Poor baby, he was good as I used finger nail clippers to get them out. These were in the louse stage, so they weren’t burrowing as fast. Then I did what every person does, I start going on a cleaning spree.

I had to stop long enough to bring my hubby dinner. Of course, having an hour sleep from the night before, I had a hard time keeping my attention and it was pouring rain. Those who live in Florida know when I say rain… it’s like the gates of hell opened up!

Back home to more cleaning, ugh! When I get to my daughters room, what was coming from the baseboard and windows-ticks! She is lying on her bed and I spot one, I yell at her to get up. I give her the once over and have to move her to the couch. I went down to the maintenance guys place and had him come over. I think he even got the heebie geebies. We killed what we could see and then shut her room up.

Yesterday, I think someone really hated me. Have you ever had one of those days when nothing goes right? We talked with the general manager; she came and took a look. I showed her where they were coming from. She looked at us and said, “I don’t think you have an infestation.” At that moment, one was crawling on her pant leg. Really! We made a plan of action. At first, I wanted to move to a whole new place; because reading these things can hatch every 3 to 7 days, but agreed to try some things before packing up. So we have been moved to a corporate apartment. It’s nice we have a view of the Tampa Bay. Ours is just as nice, I usually view a beautiful courtyard.

As we are waiting to be moved, I decided to call my girlfriend Misty. I look at on our terrace and the pup is on the other side on the ledge! My daughter and I go out, trying to talk him back. I would have leaned over myself except I was working on 4 hours sleep in two days. I probably would have gone head first over. He gets almost back and then falls. My daughter screams running for the door. We are on the second story. Luckily, his fall was broken by the bushes below. When he hit, he barked then ran off…like what the heck? My daughter scooped him up. He was okay, thank God.

Finally, we get moved in time to take her to gymnastics. She wasn’t going to participate, except on beam. I had to make a payment, forgetting my check book I went to the ATM next door. It was broken, gee what a shock! So these last few days for me have been crazy with lack of sleep, sick kid, and being displaced.

It will be mid-week before I go back to see how my place is. They will have a cleaning service come in, I am going to help because no ever meets my standards of clean. Hopefully, all is good to move back. I just hope the rest of this week goes without a hitch. A girlfriend called this morning concerned. She told me I looked like the whole world was on my shoulders last night. I didn’t talk with anyone simply because I would have lost it. Today has been better- thank goodness.

Update

2009-11-02T19:11:00.001-08:00

Faithy is winding down her compulsory season. Her last meet she took first all-around. She placed first on beam, second on floor, third on bars, and third on vault. They had a handstand contest with all the teams that participated,and she won! She will start prep-op Level 7 in January. Svetlana will be back to hone the routines they worked on. We are so ready.

We had a good Halloween, it was not a typical Halloween for us. It was still so hot at night that the kids were sucking on ice cubes. We carved Faithy's pumpkin two days before Halloween, and it was soupy with grey hair the day after...ick!

School has been going good this year, Faith started her own blog. We try to update every Wednesday. This last week, we got behind because my hubby celebrated his 51st birthday. We had an amazing day. I made him a really nice breakfast. We played 18 holes of golf, stopping to eat lunch. Then that evening we went to Bern's. This restaurant is an experience.

http://www.bernssteakhouse.com/

The menu was 20 pages, including a 60 oz. steak that will feed six for $230.00. They have a variety of foods. The service is amazing. The waiters have to train in the kitchen for two years before they are even allowed to wait on the floor. They cater to your every need, with knowledge of everything on the menu, and how it is prepared. When you finish dinner, they give you a tour of the kitchen and wine cellar. It was fun seeing all the action, in the individual sections. After the tour, we made reservations for upstairs to have dessert. You sat in huge tables shaped like wine barrels, with another 15 page dessert menu. The valet parking is nice, because you don't feel like walking far when you are finished. I personally, had a bad case of sunstroke, but I lived vicariously through Gregg and Faithy.

We are preparing for Gregg's trip. He will be leaving overseas again, the first week of December. There is a lot of things to squish into this month, but we will do our best to try. I will keep you updated.

Savenger Hunt

2009-10-13T10:57:00.001-07:00

Faith updated her school blog... check it out!
http://weeziesblogspot.blogspot.com/

Simple Woman

2009-10-09T13:34:00.000-07:00

Hosted by Peggy@ http://thesimplewoman.blogspot.com/************************

Outside my window...it is sunny with a warm breeze. I can't beleive it's over 100 in October.

I am thinking...what I would like to cook for dinner.

I am thankful for...the smarts God gave me.

From the learning room...we went on a bird and insect Savenger Hunt today. It is great living in Florida.

From the kitchen...no one is in it yet...but I will be soon as I can figure out what to cook.

I am wearing...brown khaki pants and a silky fall top.

I am creating...this new post.

I am going...to have a pretty kick back weekend. Faith starts her Saturday practices. Five days a week for gymnastics...crazy.

I am reading...Blood Red- a vampire book. I am reading it on my Iphone Kindle.

I am hoping...we hear a date for Gregg's promotion pinning so I can start planning the party.

I am hearing...the new puppy bark. He wants Faith to rescue him from her bathroom.

Around the house...we have decorated for fall. We will get our pumpkin soon. I heard the dusting the lid in cinnamon keeps them from decaying faster. We need that in Florida.

One of my favorite things...writing. When I get a few quiet moments.

A few plans for the rest of the week...tomorrow Faith has gymnastic practice. We had talked about going to the beach. Monday is a holiday...so who knows. We are very spur of the moment kind of people.

Here is a picture I though I'd share...Faithy sleeping with her new puppy, Harley. He is a little Westie that is 10 weeks old.

Faith Started Her Own Blog

2009-10-01T11:57:00.000-07:00

Faith started her own blog today as part of a school project. She will be sharing exciting things happening in her life and school projects. Jump over and check it out when you have the chance.
http://weeziesblogspot.blogspot.com/

What is Normality?

2009-09-29T14:10:00.000-07:00

I am sorry I haven't been around much to post. Things at the Ramsdell's have been so crazy and hectic, I can barely catch my breath. School has been going great and just when we were in the swing of things we got a call Gregg's mom had died. We left on the 6th and didn't return until 27th. It was an intense time of cleaning and gleaning. Long 10 to 12 hour days and long nights going through paperwork. Our daughter, Faith, is an angel. She never once complained and completely occupied her time.

When we got back, Gregg heard the great news that he will be promoted to E-8. He is now Master Sergeant. Whoo hoo! I will be planning a party. We are waiting on General Patrais calendar to when he will be available to pin Gregg.

After the party I will start planning the holidays. Thanksgiving and Christmas will be combined. Gregg will be leaving us November 1st for at least 90 days. Once again, please add our family to your prayer lists. We had a huge family dinner with all the kids when we were home. I will post some pictures when I get some time.

So much more is happening in our lives right now, in time I hope I can share. I am so happy I have faith (not my daughter) to fall back on. Because without God as my rock, I'd be a mess.

School Is Back In Session

2009-08-31T11:45:00.000-07:00

We started school today and had a really great time. It is hard to get back in a new routine and start a new schedule. Faith loves school and is such a joy to teach. We are going to be going four days a week, taking Friday's off.

Wednesday will be our elective/project day. She wanted to take Typing and Spanish. We will also do a Bible study from Life Pac.

She started reading Ann of Green Gables. We will review chapters and do book reports, something new this year. When she finishes we will have movie days like last year, complete with all the goodies. It is fun to read a book and then see the movie.

Every Friday, is Faith's day to cook. She got the Cooking DS for her Nintendo DS. She will plan and cook the meal. Although, her first menu cracked me up.

Appetizers: Chips with salsa and cheese sauce
Main meal:Beef Taco's and Dumplings
Dessert:Pound cake with strawberries and whip cream

Everything sounded good except- Taco and Dumplings? what?
So she will save the dumplings for another meal....she is so funny.

This year will be using: Saxon Math 5/4
Rod & Staff- English Grade 4
Editor & Chief- A book where she gets to proof read & correct articles and stories.
Spelling Power & Vocabulary by Beverly L. Gordon
Science Apologia-Exploring Creation with Zoology-
Creatures on the Fifth Day
History & Geography-Alpha Omega Life Pac-Grade 4
http://www.aophomeschooling.com
America's Story-American history covering Christopher Columbus through 1990's

We have a fun filled year planned with many new projects, but she can't wait. We planned the four day school year because her gymnastics schedule is increasing.

She goes Mon-Thurs. and then in January, Saturday will be added. So she will be spending 15 plus hrs a week in the gym. After school, she is still going downstairs to the office to work. She loves it, and the staff here loves her. I will try to post pictures with projects and things we are doing during the school year.

I also want to wish Cyndie, Sue and Camille a happy and productive school year.

Going Home

2009-08-22T10:59:00.000-07:00

I went back home to Oregon for a couple weeks to pack up our five bedroom home and visit with the kids, and grand kids. It was a lot of work and very exhausting, but I had some great friends keeping tabs on me. I packed over 260 boxes filled with memories, antiques, family heirlooms and just stuff. We also moved most of the outdoor furniture and indoor furniture.

While I was home I did have a chance to get together with some dear friends. I went to Cyndie and Rame's home for a BBQ. I rode with Dev and Rog up to their home in the boondocks of Grants Pass. They have a beautiful ranch up there. Although, if you knew Cyndie she would never strike you as a farm girl. We had a great night up there, shuckin' corn, and spending countless hours laughing. Dev is very animated and tells amazing reenactments of stories. The kids had a great time swimming, doing nails, playing on the tramp and just running amuck.

I also got a change to have a couple dinners with Natalie. My son, Nick, and her son, Alex, have been friends since second grade. Her daughter, Maryssa and Faith have been friends since Kindergarten. Natalie and I enjoy a passion for cooking, and before I left to Florida we enjoyed sharing many yummy meals together.

Kali just started back bar tending at a small bar in Central Point. I went out a couple times to play some free pool and watch my daughter, no wonder she makes great tips, everyone loves her.

One night we took a break and Jerry brought over his two guitars, drums, microphone and we played until 3:30 a.m., it was so much fun. All the kids had a great time just letting loose. Kali and Jerry have amazing voices, it was fun hearing them sing together.

On the last night of our stay we threw a BBQ at the house. It was like a revolving door that day with visitors. My ex-in laws, Jerry & Dana, came to visit, whom I still adore very much. They have not seemed to age. Then many of Kali's friends stopped by. It made me feel old for the first time. Sarah came bringing her baby, Ayrabella, Kayla is pregnant with her second and brought Marissa, Crystal was there with Dayton and Kali brought Dominic out to play after his nap. These were all gals that spent countless hours growing up at the house and they are all mothers now, where did the time go. We had fun just visiting and watching the kids play.

It was hard to say good-bye to everyone. Walking through the empty rooms was a strange feeling for me. I know once Crystal and Jordon move in, the house once again will be filled with memories of fun and laughter.

On my way back home I stopped in Oklahoma to see Misty and Shannon. We have been chatting on the Internet and by phone for the last year. It was so great to meet these two in person. They are so much fun. Katie and Faith had a great time together doing nails, swimming and running around Celebration Station.

It was fun visit, but it was nice to get back home and get back into a routine. And I really missed the big guy.

Busch Gardens-Africa

2009-07-26T10:14:00.000-07:00

First off, let me say I know "Super Freak" is probably not the best song, but I really needed to hear some upbeat dancing music...so be glad it's not Brick House. LOL We had fun previewing the video and dancing around the house. When watching the roller coaster video, turn down the sound...I did a little whoo hoo'ing for Faithy. If the music offends you-turn it off!

We ended Elliott's vacation here with a trip to Busch Gardens. We all had a great time, spending almost eleven hours in the park. Elliott rode all the main roller coasters. We all rode the water rides-G is NOT a huge fan of roller coasters, so I hung with him and looked at the animals. Faith experienced her first roller coaster ride, "The Scorpion" and was hooked. We ate lunch in the Egyptian part of the park. The food was really good and they had a show with great music. Everyone was dancing and trying to eat at the same time, including us. Faith was in a hula hoop contest and was one of three left. They had them turn opposite ways then the hoop was spinning and all kind of fun things, the gave away beaded necklaces as the prize. Faith ran into her old coach Miranda and 'Uncle Jerry', it was nice catching up. We all had a really good time, just wish some of the other kids could have been there too.

Simple Woman

2009-07-21T20:16:00.001-07:00

Hosted by Peggy @ http://thesimplewoman.blogspot.com/
***************************************************************************

Outside my window...it is dark, but you can hear the storm.

I am thinking...it's late. I should try to get one night of good sleep, but I am not tired.

I am thankful for... good friends...new and old.

From the learning room...it is quiet. Florida starts school mid-August. I think we will wait until after Labor Day.

From the kitchen...it is closed. Although, Elliott is going through the cupboards for munchies.

I am wearing...sweat pants and a tank top.

I am creating...this new post.

I am going...back to Oregon at the end of July for two weeks. It will be fun to see everyone. Cyndie put the 101 in the freezer... LOL. Then off to Oklahoma to see Misty and Shannon.

I am reading...other people's blogs. That is all I have had time for lately.

I am hoping...I can maintain or lose more weight in the next couple weeks.

I am hearing...the sound of the television and Elliott humming tunes.

Around the house...spic and span. Next week, I will be precooking meals and freezing them, so Gregg doesn't starve or eat cereal every night for dinner.

One of my favorite things...spending time with family.

A few plans for the rest of the week...tomorrow Faith finishes her OGC camp and will be performing a dance routine. Thurs. & Friday are up in the air, other than normal everyday stuff. Saturday-Busch Gardens and Sunday-BBQ with some friends from France.

Here is a picture I though I'd share... Elliott is into rock climbing. We found a place called Vertical Ventures. He has gotten to go a couple times. I really enjoyed watching him.

2009-07-19T14:55:00.000-07:00

Summer Aquintances

2009-07-13T10:39:00.000-07:00

We love the place we live right now. The Casa Bella is a gated community and consists of mostly higher ranking military or professional business people. Faith being the outgoing little person she is makes friends instantly. It seems daily she is bringing someone new through the door she just met. Because it is gated and all the staff knows Faith, from her "part-time" job in the office, she has free reign within the confides of here. What is also neat about Tampa, is it is a melting pot of people. Faith has made friends with girls from Kentucky, Tennessee, Hawaii, England and her latest girlfriend from France. Maria has really taken to Faith-and is a great person. She speaks some English with a great accent, but also speaks Dutch and Spanish. Elliott has come to stay for the month of July and they have been all gathering in the pool room for some late night tournaments. I caught some pictures the other night, there was a lot of boasting and teasing go on, when the opposite team got up, they would whistle, bark...it was so funny. I also included a video of victory...when you see Elliott, all I could think of was the guy from Lucky Charms saying, "It's magically delicious."

4th of July Trip

2009-07-06T06:52:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun this last weekend. Elliott, has come from Oregon to visit for the month of July. We picked him up Wednesday night and it has been a whirl wind ever since. We left Friday for the Keys for the weekend. The ride there is beautiful and we passed the time with stories, the kids watching Seinfeld on the DVD and listening to Blue Collar radio on Sirius. One bridge we cross is the Sky Bridge and it is so awesome. At night the rods light up, but if you fear heights not a good one to go over. It gives you a great view of the bay.

Along the way we passed several signs you would not see in Oregon, here are a few.

For those who know Spanish... where you wouldn't want to live.

We stayed in at the Oceanside Motel in Islemorada. It is owned by former football player for the Steelers, Gary Dunn. It is a local favorite and during football season many ex-football players stop by. It was a nice place and the food and hospitality great. I included pictures on my video portion. It was cute the first night we were there looking at the menu. Elliott saw dolphin and he immediately said,"I'm not eating flipper!" Dolphin is a fish that is big in the area as are conch.

I happened to have the opportunity to capture a live conch on the beach. They actually have eyes where you can see the pupils. Elliott took him back out when were finished taking pictures.

Faith loved being able to go up to the outside bar and order Shirley Temples. I loved the sign that is hanging where she ordered the drinks. Hurricane Warning-If the beer bottles break, there is a hurricane.

We ate breakfast one morning at a place called Mangrove Mike's. The restaurant is very popular with the locals. You can buy these visors with fake hair. Gregg tried one on...NOT! But we had a good laugh.

The main reason we went was to snorkel and Bahia Honda is one of the best. You have the Atlantic on one side and the Gulf of Mexico on the other. We had to deal with a park ranger who definitely took his job to seriously. They had raised the rates since last year to ten dollars a car with four passengers. We were two cents short. He would not budge, so I had to pull out the visa...what a jerk! I thought Gregg was going to lose his temper but I kept putting my hand on him and telling him it's okay. We had a really great time snorkeling. I didn't get to do a lot because I am still battling with this stupid eye infection. One eyed-Suz, I should have bought a patch. They saw lobster, cow-fish, and other many beautiful fish that swim by you even just sunbathing in the shallows. Faith was catching the hermit crabs and amusing nearby kids. That evening we went to Lorelei's for dinner. Faith and I both thought about Gilmore Girls when we saw the name. It is open seating right on the beach. In one of the boat slips was a car converted to a boat...what a great imagination.

After dinner, we watched a great firework display from the safety of our motel.

On the way home we stopped at the Everglades Park. The air boat ride is amazing in itself. The beauty of the Everglades and seeing the alligators in the wild. I included a separate video. On the way home we were on a portion of the trip called Alligator Alley and yes, there a hundreds hanging on the banks when it is sunny. They have fences on both sides of the highway but occasionally they escape. In fact, one trip down we saw one doing the death roll in the slow lane, everyone was swerving everywhere. We were diverted because of an accident-80 mile detour. The one perk was Diary Queen where we stopped for ice cream. The kids had to let out some energy...

Then we ended our road trip with another beautiful sunset.

Our Trips in Different Directions

2009-06-29T04:28:00.000-07:00

Faith spent this last week in Texas at Karolyi's camp. She left very excited to meet Bela and Marta, as they are icons in the Olympic world. When she got back she was full of stories of camp life. They spent about 8 hrs a day practicing gymnastics and the other hours were filled with activities of swimming, learning dances for the talent show, horseback riding, lake activities, and other fun camp things. She did come back with many new skills...which is exciting for her starting Optionals. Faith also brought back several items signed by Bela...a water bottle, Karolyi Good Luck Bear(which I loved... my little girl at heart), and a leotard. Faith said, when she was being hugged by Bela and having her picture taken, her heart was beating so fast with excitement. The only bummer for her, was this coming week Nastia Lukin, Shawn Johnson and many others were going to be at Karolyi's to train for a upcoming event. She can't wait for next year, she said she wants to go for two weeks... I better start saving now.

Bela & Faith. Her coaches from home being silly-Dan & Christain

Gregg and I also took a vacation to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. It was our first vacation without any of our children. We spent our first night in Savannah, Georgia. It was beautiful! And the food and people were great. We ate downtown on the Savannah river, at Huey's, where we sampled the local cuisine...yummy. I also had Beignets, which I love. The Italian's make a similar dessert called Zepole's. It is a warm piece of fluffy dough with powdered sugar. After dinner, we walked along the cobbled line streets where I busted my high heels. Luckily, no ankle injury. I ended up buying a pair of flip flops...so much easier to walk in. We also watched huge carrier ships come into port. It was amazing seeing them make it under this one bridge.

Downtown Historic Savannah

The trio of guys singing were awesome- the harmonized so well together.

The next night, we spent in Georgetown, South Carolina. The people were not nice and the food stunk! Definitely, we will pass this town up next time. I did manage to get a beautiful sunset picture though.

We spent the next few days in Myrtle Beach golfing different pro courses everyday. We played Indian Wells, Burning Ridge and Wacchaw East Plantation. They were all beautiful and challenging.

We stayed at the Springmaid Hotel on the 6th floor. We had great views and the beach was just below our hotel. Gregg and I enjoyed walking in the evening looking for sea shells. One night, a storm came in quickly and there was going to be a wedding rehearsal. In one quick gust of wind, half their chairs went down.

I also got to cross another item off my list of things I want to do. I have para-sailed in Mexico and bungee jumped from my ankles over a pond. Gregg took me on a helicopter ride. It was so much fun and I sat next to Jack in the front seat. We talked through our microphone headsets. I am hooked! I would love to go again. Now, if I can just talk him into letting me parachute from a plane. He doesn't trust anyone enough to let me go, and I don't think the Army will let me be a guest for a day.

On the way home we stopped in Jacksonville, Florida because we were having golf withdrawals. I looked up this place on our Garmin. At first, we were a little nervous. The area was not so good and I think we were the only white people in the neighborhood. I am sure they saw our license plate and thought for sure the dumb Oregonians were lost. I am not a prejudiced person, so I could care less if we didn't fit in. It was called First Tee and we had so much fun on this course. It was like playing in your backyard. You had to guess where the golf paths were and the holes weren't really marked. The people who ran the course were fantastic and accommodating. I would love to go back. We found out the course was used primarily for kids struggling with criminal backgrounds. Funny, it was located right next to the work release center. They had guys that mentored these kids. The rules were posted on the cart, which included dress attire and in bold letters no foul language...so I whispered(LOL). Golf is not relaxing like people say. It is frustrating at times and you get a work out in. Especially, balls you shank into bushes, tree lined areas and ponds. Overall, our trip was fantastic. Gregg and I got to spend some quality time together. Now, I have to do the all the laundry in two days and repack. We pick up our son, Elliott on the 1st and then we head to the Keys for the 4th of July. Hurrah, another adventure.

Simple Woman

2009-06-18T04:43:00.000-07:00

Hosted by Peggy @ http://thesimplewoman.blogspot.com/

****************************************************

Outside my window...the palm trees are blowing gently in the wind. There is a lizard basking on my patio.

I am thinking...of what needs to be accomplished in the next couple days for Faith's trip and ours.

I am thankful for... for such a good husband. A man who pampers me and puts up with my spunky attitude. Who is patient, trustworthy, an incredible lover and my best friend.

From the learning room...today is the last day for CAT testing and then we are done for the summer. My daughters reward for such a great attitude and diligence through the school year, is a new Vera Bradley purse...she is so excited. She gets to pick it up tomorrow.

From the kitchen...I just made a cup of Chai tea. Faith is still sleeping but soon, I will be making the breakfast of her choice.

I am wearing...sweat pants and a tank top.

I am creating... a new habitat for Mako...Faith's new leopard gecko. We just bought a new 10 gallon cage. We added red colored sand for a desert look. We have several tiny pieces of wood arranged so he can hide and climb. We plan on adding another rock and some plants. It is fun to watch him stalk the crickets and munch them down.

I am going...to Savannah, Georgia on Monday. Then on to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina for almost a week. This will be the first vacation with just my hubby in many, many years. Taking a trip with Gregg is so much fun. We stop at different little shops along the way that look interesting. I have found some great gifts at little roadside stops.

I am reading...lately, just magazines. I haven't really had the time.

I am hoping...that Faith has an amazing time at Karolyi's next week. Prays that she doesn't get injured but can learn some fantastic new skills.

I am hearing...the air conditioner blow. The house is still quiet because Gregg's at work and Faith is still sleeping.

Around the house...there are suitcases being prepacked for this next week. The house is clean and the laundry caught up. Whoo-hoo!

One of my favorite things...yahoo chat. I love being able to keep up with friends.

A few plans for the rest of the week...finish testing today. Friday- oil change on the car, my day to carpool for gymnastics. Saturday & Sunday- finish shopping for our trips and celebrate Father's Day.

Here is a picture I though I'd share...

My Dad- taken at Shoshone Falls, Idaho. Happy Father's Day, Dad.

Meet Mako

2009-06-16T04:06:00.000-07:00

This is Faith's newest pet, Mako. We had to come up with a non-gendered name because you don't know the sex until they are older. We had gone into Pet Smart to get another crabby, because Hercules died while molting. The crabs only molt when they are happy, well both decided to molt at the same time and only Blueberry survived. We started to look at the lizards, they had Bearded Dragons and Leopard Gecko's. We talked how it may be fun to get one...my theory is, not a lot of maintenance, we travel quite often. We talked awhile with the employee, who owns several of both. The bearded dragon eats pinky mice as they get big, no thanks. They aren't so cute as they get older, but the leopard gecko changes colors as they mature and are docile. He recommended they are great for first reptile pet. Faith has done a great job with her crab, but you can only interact with it so much. She lets it crawl around on her and her bathroom floor. With the gecko, she feeds it live crickets(which we bought a special cage for) and mealy worms. We switched around the cages but are going to get a new enclosure for Mako. This will be good for Faith because we are studying Life Sciences next year. Faith spent the first hour we got it home on the web learning how to care for her leopard gecko...it should be fun watching it grow.

Faithy's Giant

2009-06-13T18:12:00.000-07:00

Faith got her giant, it is a huge skill for a gymnast. She is strapped to the bar at her wrists. Then she hangs straight down and swings, until she builds enough momentum to continue going around and around. I wanted to add video, but haven't had a lot of luck. The first time I tried to video, it wouldn't work on my camera, the second time my batteries ran out, and the third time, I got the beginning, the middle disappeared, and got the end. So I have decided to put on a few pictures. It is fun to watch because when she gets to the handstand, she sometimes changes and goes backwards. She usually goes around 5-10 times. Once you get this skill, they never want to be off strap bar.

Lindsey, her team mate gets ready when she comes back down to pull the strap in... helping her to stop.

Cooking vs Convenience

2009-06-10T08:57:00.000-07:00

I have this little brown box that holds my handwritten recipes, before the easy days of down loading from the computer. I was going through it the other day and was amazed at some of the things in there. Most were so faded, stained, and my mom's Sour Cream Chocolate Chip cookie recipe was half burnt. Then I remembered, that I had cooked it with a batch of cookies and I thought it was funny it had survived. Why I never rewrote it...probably got busy with life. Everything is about convenience these days. I rarely ate out as kid, not because we couldn't but my mom was a great cook. Although, I love to cook... Gregg takes me out quite often on weekends(So many great restaurants in Tampa) but it gives me the chance to come home and try to duplicate the meal.
As you all know, I have been on a strict diet. After talking with a friend, Sue, I started to re-evaluate and increased the calorie count, not a lot but enough I don't feel like death after working out. I also have been reading this book by Jillian Michael's on metabolism, she was saying we are so screwed up because of all the chemicals in processed food. So last week, I started going through the cupboards seeing what I could make that I couldn't buy fresh or organic. I am not turning into a health nut but if I can change just a few things, at least I know what is going into my families bodies. One thing, I have always done that saves time is I plan a menu for two weeks in advance, do we always stick to it...No. Since I love to cook, I have been known to spend hours going over recipes, thinking how to tweak them. Luckily, only a few toxic wastes have happened...LOL.
After shopping, I come home and pre-cut the veggies and separate meat into freezer bags-if we are having hamburgers, I'll form the patties. It is time consuming after you just spent hours shopping but when you go to cook, it is a breeze to pull out that prepared stuff. With Faith's late gymnastic nights, I try to plan crock pot meals, casseroles or different meals that can be cooked in shifts for our crazy schedule. Poor Faith, she can't eat heavy beforehand- so she eats some healthy snacks. Some nights not getting home until 9 p.m., she is starved but I want to make sure she has something good waiting. She needs to refuel after three or more hours of working out.
I found this recipe that has been handed down on the Anthous side of family and came from their Granny Line, she was in her late nineties when she died. We love to make pancakes and waffles on the weekend. I had quite a time finding the buttermilk powder, a store employee and I spent about 20 minutes looking. This is a great recipe and stores for 6 months.

Pancake & Waffle Mix
Mix-8 cups flour
2 cups Buttermilk powder
2 tsp.salt
4 tsp. baking soda
1/2 c. sugar
( 8 tsp)-2 2/3 tab. baking powder
Mix well and store in tight container for six months.
To make pancakes or waffles-
1 1/2 cups mix
1 cup water
2 eggs
3 tabs. oil
She even added a Pioneer "Maple Syrup"
1 1/2 cups water
3/4 cup sugar
3/4 cup brown sugar
3/4 tsp. maple flavor
Boil for 2 minutes.

I do love to cook and the compliments that come with it. It is also great sitting at the table and sharing stories about your day. Especially, with kids because they grow so fast.

Hannah Montana Military Style

2009-06-08T17:33:00.000-07:00

Friday night, was the grand opening of the base theater. They were showing the new Hannah Montana movie- best part it was free entrance. The snacks were very reasonable, the small was the size of a large in a regular theater. For a coke, large candy and popcorn, it was only $5.50.
The theater was well designed to hold about 500 people. The seats rocked and they stair stepped down so you could see well.
Before the movie started they played the National Anthem on the screen, everyone stood and some sang. The teenagers were well behaved, no feet on the seats, chatting loudly, or on their cellphones texting during the movie, I hate that!
We had a great crowd and the movie was great. I was amazed how different it was compared to a public theater. I think we will be going to the base theater from now on.

Bridge in Tampa Park

2009-06-08T05:48:00.000-07:00

Simple Woman

2009-06-03T17:33:00.000-07:00

Hosted by Peggy @ http://thesimplewoman.blogspot.com/

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Outside my window... It is dark, the storm has calmed down.

I am thinking...about tomorrow's work out.

I am thankful for...my beautiful family.

From the learning room...it is quiet for the evening. We will be working hard to complete our Math for the year.

From the kitchen...the dishwasher is running. Faith just finished making some hot chocolate.

I am wearing...a cute little night gown I bought in Portland.

I am creating...this post for the first time. I have enjoyed reading some of my friends posts.

I am going...to bed soon.

I am reading...Patricia Cornwell-"All That Remains."

I am hoping...I can be strong the rest of this week with my diet.

I am hearing...the T.V.

Around the house...Faith is watching Smart House and Gregg is checking Elliott's flight for July.

One of my favorite things...is all of us home together.

A few plans for the rest of the week...go to the Casa Bella Biggest Loser workout, home school with Faith early so we can keep up with new gymnastic schedule.

Here is a picture I thought I would share...I took this picture of Faith & Gregg because she is growing up so fast. It won't be long before she won't want him to come play with her because she will be busy with her friends.

Our trip to Idaho

2009-05-27T11:47:00.001-07:00

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Update

2009-05-19T06:45:00.000-07:00

We had a great time in Idaho visiting my parents and my aunt & uncle. We went to the hot springs, ice caves, and Sun Valley. It was nice to be with my family and we also got to visit with some old friends. My mom and dad's best friends, Chuck and Barbara, live behind them. I have known them since I was very young. One of their sons, Kevin, who is close to my age came down from Boise to visit. It was nice to see him and his family. We also had a chance to visit the church that has been praying for Gregg ever since he started this deployment. It was a great church and everyone was so friendly, it reminded me of the church I grew up in, First Baptist in Felton, California. Oh yeah, we bought property, an acre.

Things have been busy here trying to tie up school for the summer. We will continue to do a few things during the summer, reading, a typing course a friend sent a link to(thanks Sue), and a scrap booking project we had started.

Faith will be busy with many camps, our son Elliott will be here all of July...very excited.

If you noticed my weight ticker hasn't really moved it is because I have stale mated. I lose and gain the same few pounds. I have started the hard core stuff again trying to get body to move...keeping my fingers crossed.
I moved Griff's graduation video to the bottom.

Griffin's Graduation & Commissioning

2009-05-14T10:18:00.000-07:00

We had a great time the last 10 days. We flew to Portland where we were greeted by Griffin & Elliott at the airport. Went to a really cool restaurant at a place called Kennedy School. They renovated the school into a restaurant/multiple mini-bars and rooms to stay the night. Very interesting atmosphere.

(Elliott,Griffin & Faith)
Saturday we attended Griffin's Air force commissioning. He is now a 2d Lt. in the Air force. He will be going to Pensacola, Florida this fall to train as a Navigator. The ceremony was an emotional time to see this young boy turn into a man. Griffin has been goal oriented from day one and I know he will have an amazing career. On Sunday, we went to his graduation ceremony. It was about 3 1/2 hrs long, because of so many graduates and the priests were a little lengthy. I included a picture of Gregg catching a cat nap in the video montage. Gregg's mom, Marcia, was able to attend. How neat it must have been to see her son pinned and then her grandson. The cute little redhead with Griffin at the end is Shannon. We wish her luck in her future endeavors in Med school. We celebrated with a dinner at Ruth's Steak House, the food was wonderful and it was nice to be with family. I only wish Kali & Jesse and Nick could have be there too and that the weather could have been nicer..brr.

Faith's Mock Meet

2009-04-25T10:47:00.000-07:00

Today, Faith had her first meet with optional skills. It was very exciting and nerve wracking all at the same time. They put so much time in that you just want them all to do well. All the girls did a fantastic job. We are so proud!

The girls before the meet....Katey & Faith between events

Faith scored 8.90 3rd place- She just got her series backwalk over Tuesday, and we loved her

dismount.

Faith scored a 9.45-4th place.

Faith scored 9.25-3rd place. We were all worried... one of the coaches didn't want to move the bars in for her. She was in tears during warm-up, but like a true athlete she pulled her self

together and had a great bar routine. She didn't do the fly away dismount...maybe next time.

This is part one of her floor routine. I had to cut during her spilts because I couldn't get her

filmed from where we were sitting. She scored 8.80-4th place.

Faith finished 3rd place all-around with a 36.4. Way to go Faith!!!

Awards and the girls celebrating with lunch at Moe's.

Madiera Beach

2009-04-20T06:47:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, we decided to explore a new beach we hadn't been to before. It was a beautiful day and not to hot. People had told us at Madeira beach you could find some pretty shells. We lucked out finding a spot. Everything is metered there and I forgot to bring my coin purse, so Gregg had to go get some change. You wouldn't think on a Sunday in the back alley's they wouldn't really check but sure enough, five minutes after he was gone, the meter guy came. I told him my husband was getting change, he was happy to see I had waited until he got back, he said most people don't. The beach was beautiful and Gregg went shell hunting and Faith was tumbling in minutes. It is so funny, she is just having fun but people love to watch and clap. She gets so embarrassed...to funny.

Coming back from shell hunting
There was a group dolphins swimming pretty close to shore. We found out later that at sunset we would see more and that some have babies. The one picture I happened to shoot at the beach just showed a dark hump, but I got lucky later. The one bad thing about this beach is no bathroom. I had to walk almost a mile away to a 7-11 to use theirs. When we has our fill of sand and sun we decided to go to the boardwalk.

The boardwalk had all kinds of touristy shops, places to sign up for a pirate cruise, dolphin sighting and para sailing,but the one reason G wanted to go was because it had a Bubba Gump's restaurant. This is one of my husband's favorite movies and he does a perfect Forest Gump imitation. He met Gary Sinese one time who played Lt. Dan in the movie and impressed him. We had fun shopping and I loved taking pictures of the beautiful birds. I even happened to get a picture of Flipper.

The pirate ship and I think the heron was watching the day's catch.

The pelicans were so neat just floating, this one dolphin was light in color compared to the darker ones we had seen earlier. He was in such swallow water I was tempted to jump in and swim with it.

Posing with the pirate and Gman very happy. I bought him a t-shirt and a green army water canteen that says Bubba Gump. I got a shot glass for my collection. Faith got a free back pack and a glass that lights up with her dinner.

It was a really fun day hanging at the beach and shopping. The dinner was great and yes, for those who know my husband, he was happy because he got to talk like Forest Gump. I can hear the kids laughing now because they know how much it gets on my nerves. LOL

Moment of Peace & Family Update

2009-04-07T12:16:00.000-07:00

I love IL DIVO and my mom sent me this link. I already bought the song and put it on my IPOD. I just close my eyes and let their music quiet my busy life.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5zi5Z8NLGUc

Things have been busy as usual. We just had my car shipped up from Oregon, I have been making payments plus insurance on a car I haven't driven in a year. We traded the car and G's truck for an SUV. It is nice to scale down and it saved us about $200. a month.
Faith is still keeping busy with gymnastics and is looking forward to all the camps this summer. We leave at the end of the month to go to Griffin's graduation in Portland, then we will fly to Idaho to see my mom & dad, and my aunt & uncle. It seems like forever since I have seen them.
Gregg and I recently took up golf. This last week we bought Faith a set so we can do this as a family. Gregg has been teased about his stray golf balls and to take cover. This last weekend my number came up. He shanked a ball to the right, coming straight for the cart with Faith inside, so I jumped in front and got nailed in the thigh. I was trying to stay in an upright position because a guy stopped his truck in the middle of the road to see if I was okay. I tried to let him know I was good, but really I just wanted to lay down on the grass and cry. G was totally trying to control his laughter. I can't blame him, if I would have hit him, I would have been cracking up too. Notes to self when golfing with Gregg- 1. Park the cart behind him. 2. Never play in front of him and watch him at all times! My golf size bruise turned in to a softball size...maybe I need to invest in protective gear.

Fun Filled Weekend

2009-03-29T15:19:00.000-07:00

Faith had a gymnastic clinic this weekend. All week she has been putting her one leg on the couch and doing the splits...called over splits. She wanted to win the rubber chicken for hardest stretcher. Well, she ended up with the rubber chicken and got the monkey for hardest worker on floor. We also went to the air show at MacDill Airforce Base on Sunday. Faith had her friend Lindsey spend the night and she came with us. It was fun for them to go in the different planes and cockpits. They enjoyed the usual junk food of pretzels, snow cones & cotton candy. The Thunderbirds put on a spectacular show.

http://www.onetruemedia.com/shared?p=863154348dae3011151c9c&skin_id=701&utm_source=otm&utm_medium=text_url

Stats

2009-03-24T08:47:00.000-07:00

I saw this on Camille's blog and thought it would be fun to see where Faith is at in the percentile world. This just cracks me up! If Faith gained one pound, she wouldn't be underweight. I think what I have learned most by dieting, is you have to be comfortable with yourself not what society thinks you should be. My daughter has an incredible body, she is muscular, lean and very healthy. O.K., I am getting off my soap box.

At 9 years and 4 months:
your child is 52 pounds, and that is at the 6th percentile for weight.
your child is 52 inches, and that is at the 33rd percentile for height.

A body mass index of 13.5,
which is below the 5th percentile,
and would indicate that your child is underweight.

Your child's ideal body weight would be at a BMI at the 5th percentile or above, and so would be at least 53 pounds.

First Month

2009-03-16T05:26:00.000-07:00

I made it through my first month on the new diet. They say it takes thirty days to form or break a habit. I am hoping the second month goes a little easier. The results: 12 lbs and 10.5 lbs body fat. The scale they use sends a charge through your body and reads water, fat and weight. When I actually saw a picture of 5 lbs of fat...wow!
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/21/34645721_2e2fc003ec.jpg
My husband has been a big support and I can always count on him to slay me in the gym and on the track. I also wanted to thank some friends that were also a great support and gave me some encouraging words to carry on: Cyndie, Sue, Misty and Camela...Thanks so much!
I am still at 500 cals and 20 carbs a day, but they added a cup of greens and a cup of fruit so I am in heaven. I also spent countless hours this weekend pouring through cookbooks. I found some great recipes and snacks that will make this next month easier. I starting a new exercise program and am going to try Kim Lyons-Your body, Your life. It is a twelve week program...my husband had me skip level one and jump right to two so that I stay challenged..gotta love him!
I hope next month, I have have good results to post. I have always been one of those people that when I want something...I never give up!

Common bond

2009-03-10T05:17:00.000-07:00

This last weekend, Griffin brought his girlfriend Kim to visit for a few days on their way to Orlando for spring break. It was great to see Grif, and Kim is a nice girl. Faith was so excited to see Griffin because she is his mini-me. Which is so strange being that he is her half-brother and he is 12 years older. Yet, they have so many of the same characteristics it is almost freaky. We do see other similarities that she shares with her other brothers and sisters. Faith has no sense of fear like Nick, is a major social butterfly like Kali, and has a great sense of humor like Elliott. The one thing that is so great about the kids, is even though they are half-brothers and sisters, they have always been best friends from day one.

Most of the pictures were taken at MacDill base beach.

MOSI-Body Worlds exhibit

2009-03-05T11:00:00.000-08:00

This last weekend we also visited the "Body Worlds" exhibit. Is was the most incredible thing I have ever seen. We got discounted tickets for being members, but I would have paid full price to see it. Faith was so in awe of the bodies that were on display, they really give you a realistic vision to how the body works. It was so much better than the plastic one we own. They are anatomically correct and the body parts are still intake. The first male we can across, Faith looked at me and asked,"Is that what I think it is?" I said, "Yes, that is his penis and testicles." I decided to use the correct verbiage as she is past the age of nicknames for these parts. She looked at me and said,"That is disgusting, they should have cut that thing off!" What can I say, I left it alone. It is a pretty serious exhibit but I couldn't help myself and had to ask Gregg, "Do you think it tastes like chicken?" We usually try to find humor in most serious things. It was amazing to see all the body parts on display. When we finished we bought the book and DVD. If anyone needs a very detailed book on anatomy, I have one you could borrow. If this ever comes to your area, I highly recommend it. I included a link to YouTube to give you a small look at the exhibit because words can just not the describe how incredible this really was.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gg7FuKqKY4E

Although, it is titled plastic corpses...they are not. It is the a process that they use to preserve the bodies.

Strawberry Festival

2009-03-01T18:20:00.000-08:00

This weekend was busy, but we had a great time as a family. Gregg ran in the Gasparilla 5 k race on Saturday morning. When he got back we decided to go to Plant City and check out the Strawberry Festival. Gregg was excited about the booth where you can make your own strawberry shortcake. It ended up being like a county fair...expense, loud and more people than any fair I attended. First thing Faith saw was the rock wall. She schooled all the boys how to climb this thing...she made it look like a piece of cake. She had quite the audience and they cheered when she pushed the red button at the top.

After the rock wall, Faith wanted to try one of the carnival games. She went for the balloon popping. She missed on her first two but the guy said to try again. When she popped the second two he told us she was at ten. He then handed her two more darts...she popped the next two. At this point he told us she was at twenty. We thought great she is climbing right up the animal ladder...he handed her two more darts and she popped the next two. He told her she hit thirty...at this point Gregg and I looked at each other because we both realized we didn't see a thirty..probably because he meant thirty dollars. Gregg let him know there was no way we were paying thirty dollars! He did end up paying $15.oo for her stuffed bulldog. Guess we were the ones schooled by the carnies. The lines were longer than Disneyland so we skipped the rides, as were the lines to make the strawberry shortcakes. I try to convince them I could make better ones at home but they were determined. We did find one station where the lines weren't two bad which made Gregg and Faith happy. I think the best deal of the day was the beach chairs we bought. They are homemade and they rock...they are so comfy.

But, they are free Mom.

2009-02-24T16:48:00.000-08:00

House prior to Club Crabby

First off, the title was suggested by my girlfriend, Cyndie Dosser. Who even in my darkest hours can make me laugh! Love ya!

My daughter, Faith, inherited two hermit crabs by a girlfriend she met here at our new place. They could not bring the crabs with them, as they had to go back home to Germany. I agreed to take them, they had their own little habitat and were low maintenance. I started doing some research on the crabs and found out that they were going to require a bit more work. We go to Petco and $85.00 later come home with club crabby. They have a new hide away, drift wood to climb on and a small dish with salt water to dip in. They have a spray bottle so that they can be spritzed once a day with special crabby water. We bought treats and looked at new shells for when they shed their old ones. Of course, we got the white sand (with Calcium) so they can dig. We can even go back and buy special beach balls and a salt covered pail and shovel...hmmm, maybe next time. So... Blueberry and Hercules, whom Faith named have their new home.

A NOT so funny thing happened on the way to the doctors..

2009-02-24T16:22:00.000-08:00

Today, was my cardio appointment that was supposed to happen last week. Gregg was sweet and took off work to bring me. I was already ahead of the game with my paperwork filled out and copies from my emergency stay. We arrive ahead of schedule, and the lady knew my name as I approached the counter. We go through the necessary rigmarole (is that a word?) and she asks, "Where is your referral?" I explained that the emergency doctor had made my appointment with the Cardiologist and I didn't need one. She continued to argue and basically became a complete jerk. Gregg comes up to tries to tell her we don't need a referral with our insurance, but she was set in her ways. Gregg had it! We marched across the street to the Emergency Room where Gregg demands to see the head of Emergency. When they asked us to sit, he refused and told them to have him come to us. The doctor was really nice and called the Cardiologist on his cell phone and explained the situation. Back over we go...back to the front desk. She then tells me, "We are going to do this even if we don't get paid." I assured her she would. I made the comment that my blood pressure was probably ski high and then she says,"Well, then we can't do the test today." At this point, the lady was almost on the verge of being taken down! Finally, I get in to do the test and yes...sky high blood pressure. I explain to the Sonogram lady all I had been through, and she was not happy, she assured me it would be dealt with. She was great and had me laughing in no time. Bottom line: All results came out great and I was released to go back to my normal life...Hooray!

The Diet Rollercoaster....

2009-02-20T10:21:00.000-08:00

This last week to put it bluntly was like being in purgatory! I thought I would share how my first week went on my new diet plan.
I am going to a place called Medi, which have doctors that monitor your weight loss. This includes weekly shots, a myriad of supplements, and 500 calories of protein only. When ever you first start a new diet you are so motivated. My first day, I set my alarm to take my first pill and stayed faithful to the plan. I even took an 1 1/2 hike. At the end of each day, you have to take a urine test to see if your body is in ketosis(fat burning mode). The first day nothing! I am a want it now type of gal and was a little discouraged.
Fast forward to Tuesday, I am starting my day and all the sudden I have chest pains so bad I had to lie down. I assure Gregg I am fine and for him to go to work. Meanwhile, I am on the bed in tears hoping it would pass. He wanted me to call a doctor that morning but I got busy with life and forgot. He called several times during the day to make sure I was fine and to remind me to call the doctor. I went to pick him up at work and his first question was,"What did the doctor say?" I then had to tell him I forgot, I won't include what he said. After I called the doctor, he wanted me to go to the emergency room right away. On the way there, we get a flat tire. I really think the stress of knowing I was going to a place with needles, the flat tire and unhappy husband made my chest feel not so great again. The thing is, Gregg has been trying to get me to go get checked for the last year but I am always claiming I am to busy. In my defense, we are living in a new state and I need to find a new primary doctor. The first thing is always the IV and I have a huge fear of needles. I proceeded to tell the nurse you get one try and she made funny jokes like, " Oh, I have the biggest needle...I have a terrible rate of getting it the first time." I really wanted to smack this lady upside the head! Gregg told her it wasn't funny and that I really am afraid. After she finished, I am thinking whoo hoo bad part done... WRONG! I get informed they are taking it every 30 minutes to do a certain panel. I looked at Gregg and told him, "This is why I don't go to the doctors!" After the first panel is done, a man walks in and asks my name. I told him and he informed me he was there to take me to do a cat scan. Apparently, my D-dimers were way over the top and they wanted to rule out a blood clot or cancer. It was said so subtlety like ...do you want cream with your coffee? I had a million thoughts going through my head but I felt the worst for Gregg, he didn't look so hot. The guy was really awesome and Gregg sat with him during my whole procedure. Thank goodness, after the cat, chest x-rays, and more blood they determined I had neither. At this point, they wanted to keep me overnight and do a stress test in the morning. We had been in emergency for 5 1/2 hrs and I just wanted to go home. Not to mention, both my arms were very bruised. I looked like a junkie that didn't know how to hit a vein. Gregg spoke with the doctor and convinced him I wanted to be at home and we signed away liability. I have a Cardiology appointment this Tuesday.
After all this, I still kept faithful to my diet plan less the exercise...doctors orders. Today was my first weigh-in and I lost 5lbs and 4.5 lbs of body fat! As I start my second week, I am really hoping this one is not so stressful.

Time stops

2009-02-12T11:12:00.000-08:00

At 4:30 p.m. everyday at Mac Dill Air Force base...time stops. All over the base retreat plays followed by the National Anthem. It is the coolest thing I have ever seen. People stop their carts in stores, kids get out of the pool, cars stop in the middle of the road and people get out....everything just freezes. People all over the base stop and place their hands on their heart and listen. Then when the music stops, things return to normal. I love that as busy as people are in their lives, they can take that brief moment to show their patriotism.

Thre Mail Tribune does a story on my hubby!

2009-02-08T17:15:00.000-08:00

As you know, my husband spent a little over a month in D.C. during the Inauguration. Our local paper did a interview about him, but this was much more than we thought. They mentioned some of medals my husband has received. He has also received the Bronze Star and the Silver star for his actions overseas. My husband is a very humble man and has always felt the true hero's are the men that have died for our country, not so much those serving now. I am so proud of him and love that he has received some recognition for all he has done for our country.

By Paul Fattig-Mail Tribune
Central Point resident Gregg Ramsdell has never been one to shy away from a little athletic competition.So the Army master sergeant naturally stepped boldly forward when the man in the gymnasium at Fort Myer, Va., asked whether anyone wanted to shoot some baskets."He said he wanted to play some hoops and asked who was up for a game," he recalls. "I've always been one to state my mind. So I said, 'Sure, I'll play.' "Ramsdell may be 50, but he is in the Army's Special Operations Command. Staying fit is part of his Green Beret mission, the rest of which is largely classified. A power lifter, he had been in the gym working out on weights in January while on temporary assignment in Washington, D.C. for the presidential inaugural."He said, 'Aren't you a little old to be playing this game?' " Ramsdell says. "I told him, 'You go ahead and shoot from the outside but don't try to come inside.' "With that, Ramsdell played a game of three-on-three basketball with his future commander-in-chief, Barack Obama, the man who would become president of the United States.Turns out Obama frequently works out in a game of basketball at Fort Myer, which is adjacent to Arlington National Cemetery."He's about six-one, and pretty strong — a very good athlete," observes Ramsdell, who played football and baseball at San Diego State University. "I suck at basketball but I can shoot the ball pretty well."There was the usual horsing around that comes with a pickup game, including ribbing your opponent about potential fouls, thanks to a few flying elbows. Obama was a good sport who played well, Ramsdell says.The three-man team that included the man who would be president won, incidentally. But it wasn't the last meeting the soldier would have with his soon-to-be top boss.We'll get back to that later.Ramsdell, who is currently stationed at MacDill Air Force Base in Florida, was reared in Fort Jones, Calif. He joined the Army 25 years ago in Medford, serving 17 years on active duty. He was mobilized as a reservist in 2005, and has since served four stints in Iraq and two in Afghanistan.The son of a retired Marine Corps sergeant major, Ramsdell is a good fit for the Green Beret. Suffice it to say you want the soft-spoken fellow on your side should you ever be in harm's way."A lot of what we did was classified — just operational, meeting the bad guys," says Ramsdell, who received a Purple Heart for an incident in northern Iraq in which he explains, "I got blown up pretty good."Enough said, given the details are classified."I like what I do and I like to think I do it halfway decently — they keep me around," he says, then adds, "I serve my country with pride."No doubt that's why his military boss submitted him as one of more than 3,000 applicants to be assigned to the 2009 presidential inauguration. Of those, 300 were selected but only 10 were named to be military assistants to potential cabinet members.Ramsdell was assigned as military assistant to Hillary Clinton, the then-nominee for Secretary of State.Here's a fellow who is not unfamiliar with power brokers. He currently works for Gen. David Petraeus and formerly for Gen. John Abizaid, both military heavyweights. And he had met briefly with former President George W. Bush and former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.But he had never been involved in a presidential inauguration."I'm used to the political side, but this was really fascinating," he says. "I met with Clinton three or four different times and drove her to the inauguration."He was even part of the inauguration parade."It was really the opportunity of a lifetime," he says.But it was his two encounters with Obama he likely will tell his grandchildren about in the years to come. The second meeting occurred a few days after the basketball game.Ramsdell and a fellow soldier, both in full military dress uniforms, were inside a federal building in D.C. that day. If you've spent any time in our nation's capital, you know it has a small-town atmosphere where you are likely to bump into all types of folks.When the elevator stopped on their floor, out stepped Obama and his entourage. They apparently had gotten out on the wrong floor, but that didn't stop the gregarious Obama from stopping to greet folks."He came up and said, 'Don't I know you?' " Ramsdell said. "I said, 'Yes, sir, we played basketball a few days ago.' "After they joked a bit about the game, Obama asked him about his Purple Heart."I told him I fell off a bar stool in Singapore," says Ramsdell, who then hastened to explain how it really happened. "I was very respective of the man. He wanted to know about our lives and where we were from. He asked how public schools were in Oregon."Ramsdell was not complimentary."He crossed his arms, tilted his head and said, 'Let's talk about this,' " the soldier recalls. "He spent about 25 minutes or so talking to us, getting to know our views, asking us about our families and our lives."He is my commander in chief and he wasn't just listening — he was having a real dialogue with us," he adds.
Reach reporter Paul Fattig at 776-4496 or e-mail him at pfattig@mailtribune.com. Reply Forward

Day 5 & 6 in D.C.

2009-02-04T19:26:00.000-08:00

{I thought this picture they had in the lobby was amazing}

The day was very chilly as snow was expected. Gregg took us to Arlington National Cemetery. It was beautiful to see all the white headstones in perfect formation but sad to see so many. We visited Kennedy's grave, where there is a constant fire burning and a guard standing by. We walked to to the tomb of the Unknown Solider and watched the changing of the guard. It was hard to fight back the tears as they moved with such precision and grace. Although, there was a crowd watching, no one was stirring as though time stopped. Faith was getting very cold but Gregg needed to visit some of his buddies he lost. There was a service going on nearby and there were several men dressed in their blues, which was very impressive. As Gregg knelt by his two buddies graves, I took Faith and gave him some time alone. After a brief time, I knew I needed to get him away, it is hard to see your man crying. We left the cemetery and went to Pentagon City which has a three story mall and warmed up at the one of the diners. We spent some time shopping and laughing at some of the Obama fluff-like flip flops with six of his heads on it. I think a little over the top.

{Every twenty-one seconds they take twenty-one steps, then they click their heels, do a ritual with the gun and start over again. They do this for an hour and then they change the guard.}

The next day, Gregg got us a tour in the Pentagon. I dressed nice, which meant heels and man, do I regret that. Gregg's friend took us to all rings A-E. That includes, all branches of the military. We even got to go two floors below the basement level to where the war phone calls come in. Not in the actual room, but close enough. It was neat to see the history of paintings from all decades. The displays with actual events and pieces preserved in the displays. They had guns, uniforms,disasters and wars that had taken place. This had more history then all the museums we visited. We spent 2 1/2 hrs and he said we could spend many more hours and still not take in everything. My feet were screaming...enough! I feel very honored that we had such an opportunity to see the innards of the mysterious Pentagon. As you know, I couldn't take any pictures.

Day 3 & 4 in D.C.

2009-02-02T10:29:00.000-08:00

Saturday, we ventured into China town and went to Madam Tussuad's wax museum. Faith and Gregg humored me and posed by the people so I could have fun taking pictures. My favorite part was going through history and the important people of the different time periods. Then you flowed into the movie stars and reporters. Faith loved the Jonas Brothers and Hannah Montana. The last room was the Presidents and First Ladies. You could pose with Obama at the oval office desk. As always, you end up in the gift shop, and Faith is my little shopper. We bought a book of all the different wax museums. I would love to visit the one in London, they have a horror section with live people. After we finished, we strolled across the street to the Spy Museum and ate lunch. The food was horrible! We were next to Ford theatre but didn't check it out. That night we meet Gregg's buddies at Hillstreet Blues in Crystal City and had dinner. It was a fun little place with great food. We sat in the Louie Armstrong booth, one of my favorite songs is by him...."What a wonderful world."

The next day, we met up with some friends to view the Natural Museum of History and the Space Museum. Brad & Camela, and their two sons, Teddy and Jack came from Maryland. Ahmed & Danielle, and their two daughters, Layla and Sabrina came from Pennsylvania. I have been corresponding with these two ladies for the last year online and it was so great to meet them. I felt like we had been friends forever and the kids all got along great. The kids had a great time exploring and playing with all the hands-on exhibits. I think the adults had just as much fun. We saw an IMAX film on Fighter Jets and then finished the evening with dinner at Applebees.

Our Time in D.C. Day 1 & 2

2009-01-29T12:01:00.000-08:00

Faith and I have had an amazing time in D.C., everyday we have seen and experienced something new and amazing. Our trip here started with a bang. Faith has always wanted to fly "first class", she wanted the leather seats. We flew South West and you get to chose your seats, Faith was very excited because we had an "A" ticket. Unfortunately, it was A-50, so a large group went before us. Faith was not to happy! As we boarded the plane, there was a good looking man sitting in the front row by himself. I asked if the seats were taken and told him how my daughter really wanted to sit in the front. Well, to make a long story short, they played Faith's guitar hero on her DS and they had a great time. Faith felt like a princess. When we arrived, we both ran through the airport to find Gregg, it was so nice to be together again. Our first day adventuring into D.C., we saw the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, WWII Memorial, Vietnam Memorial and the White House. As you are at these places you get a sense of such overwhelming pride and I found myself choked up at times. All your life you read about these places but to see them and touch them brings on a whole new meaning.

Faith experiencing the Metro, Federal Triangle was our stop to the Monuments.

Washington Monument and the World War II Monuments

The frozen Reflecting Pond and the Lincoln Memorial ...88 steps to the top.
Views from Lincoln Memorial and The Veterans Wall Statue

Catching a hot dog on Constitution Ave. in front of the Federal Reserve.

The White House and the Review stand before tear down. G being interviewed in front of the White House by Norwegian T.V. about the Inauguration.

Cell Phone

2009-01-21T13:47:00.001-08:00

My daughter, Faith, has a newer cell phone that she got this Christmas. Well actually, she had my old Blackberry Pearl, that is, until my SIL talked her into trading. She loves her cell phone because my oldest daughter, Kali, helped her download her favorite songs as ring tones. She took pictures of her nephews and even a few videos. It has really cool games on it because my SIL is a gamer. Faith has this thing about turning it off when she goes to gymnastics or runs it down until it has one bar. This morning, I am getting things packed for D.C. because we leave tomorrow. We are going through our checklist to see if we need anything before we run errands. Faith comes in and says, "Mom, where did you put my cell phone?" I did not touch it and actually reminded her to plug it in before she went to sleep. We both go there and no phone. She is insisting I had it...yes, because I love to tear my house apart looking for a cell phone. Hmmm, maybe we shouldn't turn it off so we can call it! We looked in all the obvious places and even the not so obvious. She went and checked the truck and the front office where we live. Meanwhile, I call the restaurant where we ate and her gym. By this time, Faith is starting to lose it and the devastation has set in that her cell phone may be gone. The gym called back after there first search and found it! Hallelujah! Funny, the first thing she did when she got home was to plug it in. I am sure that ringer will always stay on. Although, I felt bad for her it was a good lesson in responsibility.

Forts & Adoption

2009-01-13T09:42:00.000-08:00

Every kid loves that secret space where they can crawl into and feel that they have some privacy. I had the woods growing up and I took full advantage of building forts. We have done the blankets over chair thing. After awhile, they are sagging and she is calling me in repeatedly to fix it. I was at Target and saw this little tent and knew it was perfect. It was easy to put together and now she can have a great place to read her books and sleep in it if she wants. She puts her pet clay lizard to guard the entrance when she is gone.

Today, for History, she had to write a report on taking a safari. We are studying Kenya, but she loves Snow Leopards. I know they are located in Asia, but she insisted writing on the leopard. When we were doing research, we came across a site that lets you adopt a leopard. So, for a $25 donation you get a fact sheet, certificate with their name on it and they mail her a stuffed animal of the leopard. I printed out the fact sheet and the certificate, she was so excited! Now, she can't wait to get her leopard and we will get a frame for the certificate.

Stars Gymnastic Spectacular

2009-01-10T10:16:00.000-08:00

Warm-up/Stretching

Today, Faith's gym had a fundraiser and put together a great show. They started of with a dance to "Beautiful Girls" that was very well choreographed. Then they picked certain girls from their levels to show their stuff. Katey & Faith did their level 5 routine in perfect timing together. To finish it off they did a fashion show with leotards representing local college teams and the Buccaneers. Faith was excited because she won one of the larger raffle prizes. It was very well put together, I was very impressed.

Faith in a back tuck

Faith's Space

2009-01-07T08:16:00.000-08:00

As most of you know, we home school Faith. We love the freedom it gives our family to travel and the education possibilities for Faith. We are able to work at her pace and not be slowed down by kids that aren't ready to move on. We have a chance to do all the experiments, art projects and take off on random field trips on something we are studying. Since we came to Florida, Faith really didn't have her own space for school. So last night, I surprised her by setting up her own desk and chair. She has a beautiful view of palm trees and flowers. We will still take those times on beautiful days to sit in the cabana by the pool or pack a lunch and school by the beach.

Happy New Year-2009

2009-01-02T19:32:00.000-08:00

For New Years weekend, we usually book a room on the coast in Gold Beach, Oregon where it is very cold and windy. We would always bundle up and just enjoy the beauty of the rocky coast.

New Year's in Florida is like Fourth of July! There are firework stands everywhere and it is warm outside. We spent a great day together at Clearwater Beach. They have a carnival like atmosphere with people doing street shows and booths where you can buy all kinds of souvenirs, get your hair braided, or even get henna tattoo's. They have activities for kids like big water slides or the trampoline where Faith loves to do somersaults. We finished our New Years Day by eating at Crabby Bills, which is Faith's favorite restaurant. I rather enjoyed my first New Years in sunny Florida.

A Day of Good-Byes

2008-12-29T17:29:00.000-08:00

Today was a hard day for our family. It was a day of saying good-bye. We started this morning by saying good-bye to my children. The visit was fun, and it is amazing how they have grown into adulthood and busy lives.

Then we went to Faith's gym and she got to see her coaches and friends. She had lunch with coach, Amy Inge, at Taco Bell where they share the love of carmel empanada's.

I also got to see my best friend, Cyndie Dosser, and share the laughter and gossip that we so enjoy being together.

The hardest good-bye was to our 16 year-old Rottweiler, Thomas. We had to put him to sleep today. Last night, all the kids took turns taking pictures with him and telling great stories from their past. I got to be in the room with him and he died with my arms around him telling him how much he was loved and what a great dog he was.

Tomorrow we fly back to Tampa where Gregg gets ready to leave for the White House. It is such a great honor and we are very excited for him. I am just not looking forward to another good-bye.

The many faces of Dominic during lunch

2008-12-22T16:56:00.001-08:00

"Dominic, what do you want for lunch?" His response, "hmmmm."
Kali told him to do "evil eye" and he growls

too cute for words....

Jerky

2008-12-21T22:47:00.000-08:00

I thought I would explain the video. My son-in-law Jesse was playing a joke on Griffin with some jerky. It taste normal for a second and then it burns like nothing else. He had tried a very small piece but then we dared him to eat a huge chunk. Being a college student he was up for the dare and I had the milk ready. I don't know what was more funny, Griffin who was trying to maintain as his face was turning a shade of red and his eyes watering or Jesse's laugh who had me dying.

VIDEO moved to bottom of the blog.

We finally decorated the tree!

2008-12-21T15:57:00.000-08:00

I am not one to usually complain but trying to get a day when all the kids could come back to decorate the tree, was like trying to pass a bill through congress. I really thought our tree still might be bare on Christmas. Friday night, they came in groups so eventually they all had a chance to be here and decorate the tree. This was the first year I sat back and enjoyed watching them decorate and bring up past stories on ornaments they found. I also realized that we have so many ornaments now that we might actually have to get more than one tree...

How time flies...

2008-12-18T16:33:00.000-08:00

It seems like just yesterday I was going to my oldest daughter Kali's preschool programs. Today, I had the opportunity to go see Austin's preschool Christmas program. He was so cute singing, "I wish you a Merry Christmas." The program was short, maybe three songs in all. Which is great for 3/4 year old's. I don't know why, but I had a hard time not choking up...maybe distant memories.

Thank You

2008-12-18T16:13:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to thank Marissa Dosser for fixing this irritating blog. She was able to take out that annoying gap and put back the music box. So a big THANK YOU to MARISSA DOSSER.

Suz

Frustration

2008-12-14T23:27:00.000-08:00

I am sorry, but I have not quite figured out this whole "blogging" thing. For some reason after my last post, the rest of my posts went to the bottom of the page and there is a huge gap. For the life of me, I can not figure how to move it up. In the process of try to move things around I deleted many cute things that took me so long to add...go figure. So to all that have come to check out my newest adventure...please be patient.
Thanks

The Perfect Tree

2008-12-14T20:30:00.000-08:00

We have been taking the kids since they were little to go cut our Christmas tree. It is a tradition to go get hot chocolate and carvan out to Bob's U-Cut. Our family has grown and we had to take three vehicles out there. It was still snowing and was so beautiful. It was a chore to try to keep my camera dry and still take pictures. I had planned on taking our family pictures today but it was snowing way to hard. We still had a great time and our son Griffin, who never gets his hands dirty, took his turn cutting the tree. Of course, Jesse couldn't resist and stuffed some pine pieces down his pants as he was bent over. We came back muddy and wet but with a beautiful 8'ft tree. The prices are so reasonable, we only paid twenty dollars. We will have our tree decorating party on Monday evening.

It's beginning to look like Christmas

2008-12-14T15:41:00.000-08:00

Birdseye Creek

Mountain

Today I was woken up by Faith's phone call. "Mom, you need to come get me, it is snowing really hard." She stayed at her girlfriend, Lauren's house, and they live in Rogue River on the top of a mountain.

It was beautiful driving out there as the snow was coming down in big fluffy flakes and the fog was lying on the mountains. It really started to feel like Christmas with the snow falling and the Christmas music playing on the radio. We made it out there no problem, there were trucks putting salt on the roads. It was a nice start to my morning.

Uncle Elliott teaches Dominic the word "Bubbles"

2008-12-14T15:33:00.000-08:00

Dominic is 2 years old and is learning new words daily. Elliott found a bottle of bubbles and started blowing them. Dominic thought this was the neatest thing. Elliott kept telling him they were called bubbles. Within minutes, Dominic was repeating Elliott. Now every time he sees Elliott he wants him to blow bubbles.

Back Home

2008-12-12T21:02:00.000-08:00

We arrived back home to chilly Oregon on Wednesday evening. The moment you stepped off the plane the air was crisp and smelled of wood. As we drove to get something to eat, I amired the Christmas lights glowing amoung the dense fog. In Tampa looking at the lights we had the windows down and it's 80 degrees outside, just not the same feeling.
It has been so fun being around the kids and catching up on all the latest gossip. Our grandson, Dominic, is a hoot. He is so animated in everything he does, like when he says, "Thank you" he places his hand on his heart and bows. It is so dang cute! I am looking forward to Sunday, as we are going to cut our Christmas Tree and take family pictures.