The Leaking Life

Remember!!

2011-11-08T11:04:00.005-05:00

In this home…

We do second chances

We do grace

We do real

We do mistakes

We do I’m sorrys

We do loud

We do hugs

We do family

We do love

Oh give me patience when wee hands

Tug at me with their small demands.

And give me gentle and smiling eyes.

Keep my lips from hasty replies.
And let not weariness, confusion or noise

Obscure my vision of life's fleeting joys.

So when, in years to come my house is still

No bitter memories its rooms may fill.

Quote

2011-10-11T11:50:00.001-04:00

When in doubt, choose the kids. There will be plenty of time later to choose work.
- Anna Quindlen

The Never-Ending Parent

2011-06-23T09:43:00.004-04:00

This is taken from a favorite blog: Magical Childhood

Sometimes it's hard to be a good parent.
Sometimes you wonder why you're not like others who make themselves the priority, who are stern and unyielding or who let everybody else take care of their kids.
Sometimes you envy them their time, their space, their full night's sleep.
Sometimes you start doubting yourself and wondering if you really are just crazy, being this kind of parent in this kind of world.

Your house is noisy and full of chaos and you wonder if it will last forever.

I have a secret. If you keep this up...

It will.

Think if it.

When you get up at 3 a.m. because your baby cries, think of the time when he's a teenager and calls at 3 a.m. to say he needs a ride instead of getting in the car with his drunk friends because he knows he can be honest with you and that he can count on you.

When you take the time explain 'why' for the hundredth time today wondering if you will ever get a moment's peach and quiet. Think of the days when your daughter is grown and on her own but still calls because she loves your conversations.

When you discount all the well-meaning people who tell you to let your baby cry and you go to him, hold him and comfort him anyway. Think ahead to the times when he'll be a strong secure, independent kid and those people say "I don't know how you were blessed with such an easy child."

When you nurse your daughter and hold her close, spoiling her with all that love and care. Think of the time when you'll over hear her tell a friend 'my mom and I have always been close.'

When the house is full of noise, mess and chaos. Think of the days when the kids are grown, and it will start all over with your grandchildren because your family is so bonded that everybody still gathers at your loving home.

No, if you keep this up it will never change. Your children will be in your life forever.

And honey, you'll love the noise.

Alicia Bayer

A great (and crazy) life

2011-06-23T09:30:00.002-04:00

Last night the kids were driving each other - and me - crazy. Finally after the bickering had escalated they were both sent to their rooms to relax and cool down. It had been a long day of camp, swimming and friends and they needed a break from everything (including each other). But it got me to thinking...

Motherhood is exhausting. It's a feast or famine enterprise where we work tirelessly with no breaks for years at a time. At some point, though, if we do our jobs right, it's done. This is going to end and while they will always love us and need us, this job we're doing now is temporary.

I know towards the end of my life (should I get lucky enough to get old), the thing I will miss most is being a mom: rocking a baby, comforting a child, knowing all the answers, being someone's superhero, making it better.

I'm all done with babies (unless we win the lottery in which case I told Isabel we'd adopt twin boys just for her). I'm aware that Nick is growing up, leaving his little boy years behind. And Isabel is turning into a young lady before my eyes - faster than I'd like sometimes. But I'm also glad that they still like to hold my hand, cuddle on the couch and have me read aloud to them.

So when they start driving me, and everyone around them, crazy I take a breath, take a break and remember I have a crazy life, but I'll miss it when it's over. Even with the fighting and the mayhem, it's a great life. These are my babies. This is my one and only wild and wonderful time of motherhood.

Someday my house will be quiet and clean. What fun will that be? Who needs quiet and clean? There are times I crave it but at the end of the day, I have my whole life to have a clean and quiet house. The clock is ticking much faster for how long I have to build lego ships, bake cookies, read books aloud, color, give piggyback rides, have girl talk, cuddle and all of those other wonderful blessings of parenthood.

If I could go back and offer a word of advice to myself when I had Isabel the message would be Life is short. Get over the small stuff and love the heck out of your kids while you have them, whether they make you crazy or not!

The Invisible Mother

2011-01-27T15:26:00.001-05:00

It all began to make sense, the blank stares, the lack of response, the way one of the kids will walk into the room while I'm on the phone and ask to be taken to the store. Inside I'm thinking, 'Can't you see I'm on the phone?'

Obviously not; no one can see if I'm on the phone, or cooking, or sweeping the floor, or even standing on my head in the corner, because no one can see me at all. I'm invisible. The invisible Mom. Some days I am only a pair of hands, nothing more! Can you fix this? Can you tie this? Can you open this??

Some days I'm not a pair of hands; I'm not even a human being. I'm a clock to ask, 'What time is it?' I'm a satellite guide to answer, 'What number is the Disney Channel?' I'm a car to order, 'Right around 5:30, please.'

Some days I'm a crystal ball; 'Where's my other sock?, Where's my phone?, What's for dinner?'

I was certain that these were the hands that once held books and the eyes that studied history, music and literature -but now, they had disappeared into the peanut butter, never to be seen again. She's going, she's going, she's gone!

One night, a group of us were having dinner, celebrating the return of a friend from England. She had just gotten back from a fabulous trip, and she was going on and on about the hotel she stayed in. I was sitting there, looking around at the others all put together so well. It was hard not to compare and feel sorry for myself. I was feeling pretty pathetic, when she turned to me with a beautifully wrapped package, and said, 'I brought you this.' It was a book on the great cathedrals of Europe. I wasn't exactly sure why she'd given it to me until I read her inscription: 'With admiration for the greatness of what you are building when no one sees.'

In the days ahead I would read - no, devour - the book. And I would discover what would become for me, four life-changing truths, after which I could pattern my work: 1) No one can say who built the great cathedrals - we have no record of their names. 2) These builders gave their whole lives for a work they would never see finished. 3) They made great sacrifices and expected no credit. 4) The passion of their building was fueled by their faith that the eyes of God saw everything.

A story of legend in the book told of a rich man who came to visit the cathedral while it was being built, and he saw a workman carving a tiny bird on the inside of a beam. He was puzzled and asked the man, 'Why are you spending so much time carving that bird into a beam that will be covered by the roof, No one will ever see it And the workman replied, 'Because God sees.'

I closed the book, feeling the missing piece fall into place. It was almost as if I heard God whispering to me, 'I see you. I see the sacrifices you make every day, even when no one around you does.

No act of kindness you've done, no sequin you've sewn on, no cupcake you've baked, no Cub Scout meeting, no last minute errand is too small for me to notice and smile over. You are building a great cathedral, but you can't see right now what it will become.

I keep the right perspective when I see myself as a great builder. As one of the people who show up at a job that they will never see finished, to work on something that their name will never be on. The writer of the book went so far as to say that no cathedrals could ever be built in our lifetime because there are so few people willing to sacrifice to that degree.

When I really think about it, I don't want my son to tell the friend he's bringing home from college for Thanksgiving, 'My Mom gets up at 4 in the morning and bakes homemade pies, and then she hand bastes a turkey for 3 hours and presses all the linens for the table.' That would mean I'd built a monument to myself. I just want him to want to come home. And then, if there is anything more to say to his friend, he'd say, 'You're gonna love it there...'

As mothers, we are building great cathedrals. We cannot be seen if we're doing it right. And one day, it is very possible that the world will marvel, not only at what we have built, but at the beauty that has been added to the world by the sacrifices of invisible mothers.

Dutch Wonderland!

2010-07-26T10:35:00.007-04:00

We headed to Dutch Wonderland for a fun day with friends. Most of the day was spent in the waterpark because it was HOT.

We took a break from the water and hit the rides. I swear, Isabel will still be riding these rides when she's 15! Nick and Addie loved the roller coaster so we rode that over and over. The park wasn't crowded so it was right on the ride every time.

Parachutes!

Nick driving Grandmom on the cars. Watch out world - we're in trouble when he gets to be 16.

Tilt-a-Turtle

Trains.

The Whip A great day!!

We love DW so much we're heading back in a few weeks with more friends.

4th of July Food

2010-07-26T10:18:00.006-04:00

Here' s a few red, white & blue snacks the kids made for our picnic with friends.

Nick made American Flags: graham crackers spread with white icing, blue icing, white chocolate chips and red licorice strips. It was super hot and the chips and icing were melting so this was messy but yummy!

Isabel made red, white & blue cupcakes with matching icing. Just tint your white cake mix with red and blue. Same goes for your white icing. So pretty and tasty!

And last on the menu - red, white & blue strawberries. Dip the strawberries in white chocolate, then roll in blue sprinkles. Yumo!

2010-07-19T11:25:00.000-04:00

"Enjoy the little things in life, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things."

Robert Brault

Dudley

2010-07-14T09:51:00.004-04:00

Thursday, June 24 I'm on my way home from work. Coming down 97 at the railroad crossing I stop to let a car turn and movement caught my eye. I turned and looked and there was this little white ball. I turned the car and drove over for a closer look and discovered a small white dog - collar and leash on and the leash was stuck on a tree branch. No tags but there was a torn bag containing a blanket and dog toys along with a note saying 'take me home.' Now, that just broke my heart. He appeared very sweet and mild. He was definitely hesistant and wary of me - backed up as I went towards him. But after a minute he cautiously crept forward and smelled my hand. I think if he hadn't been tethered he'd have run. Anyway after a few minutes of checking me out I guess he decided I was ok. I walked around a little to see if any people were nearby - nothing. So I picked him up and took him home. I posted on numerous sites and called the Carroll County and Howard County shelters but no one's called to report a missing dog.

Isabel named him Dudley and Nick approved. He's a super sweet guy and the kids - especially Nick - adore him. He loves to play, run, chase you and the ball and just have fun. He also loves to cuddle, sit with you on the sofa and be petted. He also found a comfortable place to sleep - in my bed!

He has a best friend in Bella, our neighbor's dog. We try to walk them together to the park where they can run, jump and tackle each other. It's quite fun watching them play.

Dudley appears to be in good health. He wasn't dirty when I found outside of some leaves and grass from where he had been sitting. He's still hesistant of visitors, especially men. Hates loud noises and is petrified of the light from a flash light. We walked him one evening and took the light so we could see to clean up after him and Nick shined the light on Dudley and he took off running, tail down. After we caught him (he hasn't learned the 'COME' command) and leashed him Nick shown the light again on him and again he tried to run off. Curious because the light can't hurt him but perhaps where he came from a light coming in his direction wasn't pleasant. We'll never know.

He's now a permanent addition to our family and we love him. Now Isabel's pushing for a cat. Hmmm, we'll see. Maybe we'll talk to Santa.

Budding Artists

2010-06-18T21:31:00.002-04:00

Nick and Isabel just finished an Art Around the World class. Each week they created masterpieces based on art in various countries.

Mexico
Egypt

Mexico

New Zealand

India

Spoons

2010-06-07T19:41:00.005-04:00

It started with this...Isabel & Nick tried but to no avail so then they experimented with other body parts...

Nick's Graduation

2010-06-07T18:17:00.005-04:00

Nick recently had his Preschool Graduation. He dressed up for the ocassion - notice the shirt with buttons (buttons means dressed up to Nick). As they walked up the aisle Mrs. Hawkins read their answers to a few questions:
Favorite part of preschool: playing in the gym - no surprise there
Favorite thing to do at home: play with cars - no surprise there
What do you want to be when you grow up - a policeman - big surprise there. When I asked Nick about that he said it was the only thing he could think of at the moment.

His teachers were fabulous - Mrs. Hawkins, who also taught Isabel - and Mrs. Alexander.This is Nick and his friend Katie. Katie's answer to her favorite part of preschool - playing with Nick. Isn't that sweet?

Isabel and Beth were there to say congrats to their brothers - Drew graduated as well.Just 3 years ago Isabel was making the same walk...

No Smoking

2010-05-23T14:09:00.003-04:00

Isabel went out back to find this...

She immediately started spouting all she'd learned about smoking being bad for you. Uncle didn't care and offered her a 'taste.' Intrigued (after MUCH egging) Isabel consented to 'just try it once."

She was NOT impressed - thankfully!

He couldn't convince or bribe Nick to try. Yeah Nick!

Nick & the 2-wheeler

2010-05-23T13:49:00.004-04:00

We took the training wheels off Nick's bike and holding on to the back Santi and I took turns running behind him. After about 5 minutes he was off and riding by himself. Wow. Now, if Isabel can only pick up a little of his confidence.

After seeing Nick riding on 2 wheels she wanted to try. She fell and that was that. We got her to try again (with a little bribery) but she just doesn't have the confidence yet. She was eyeing a new bike at Walmart but I told her the bigger bikes don't come with training wheels - hoping this will entice her to try again. We'll see.

Gretta & Jaeger

2010-05-12T14:07:00.012-04:00

Last weekend we watched a friend's cute doggies. I don't know who was more excited about the weekend - Gretta and Jaeger or Isabel and Nick.

Dave dropped off the dogs Saturday morning and off they ran into the backyard exploring every inch. Then they made the rounds of the house. Jaeger with a little help since he can't do stairs.

We did have a little adventure with the bunny family living under the playhouse and with Kate, our guinea pig. Seems Gretta loves small furry creatures - well, love may not be the right word - how about, she's intrigued by small furry creatures.

Anyway, we finally decided to move Kate into one of the bedrooms and block the hall so Gretta couldn't get to the room.

I think Kate was thrilled on Sunday when she heard the kids saying goodbye to the dogs. She finally got her house and her peace & quiet back.

All in all a great time. We were reminded how much we miss having a dog and reassured us that we will once again have the pitter patter of furry feet in our home once we get settled with the move.

It also reminded us of how much we miss Daisy and what a blessing she was. She was the sweetest, most gentle dog ever - she was definitely one of a kind. May she always rest in peace.

Natural Bridge, VA

2010-05-07T15:45:00.012-04:00

We headed south (about a 4 hour drive) to Natural Bridge, VA for a long weekend. http://www.naturalbridgeva.com/ Our plans included the Natural Bridge Zoo, Safari Park, Natural Bridge (hiking) and a surprise find - Boxerwood Gardens.

Anything involving animals is a big hit with Nick & Isabel so they were geared up for this mini-vacation. The highlight though was our sleeping arrangements. We were staying in a renovated caboose.

We headed out super early Friday so we would arrive in VA with plenty of time to explore. Our first stop was the NB Zoo - a walk through zoo where you can get up close and personal with lots of animals. And we did! http://www.naturalbridgezoo.com/

After that we headed up the road a few miles to the Safari Park (http://www.naturalbridgesafaripark.net/) which combines walking and riding. You begin the trip by riding through the animal park in your car and feeding the animals out of buckets. The idea is to hold the bucket out your window and the animals kindly take a bite, say thank you and walk away. Not the way it always works. The zebras, especially, can be a little greedy. We had visited this park about 2 years ago and Isabel was so frightened she stayed in the back of the van. This go round she really got into it.
Finally we headed for the Caboose. This was definitely a neat place to stay (http://www.guestcaboose.com/). The kids loved it. They were going to stay in the cupola but it was a little warm and the bees liked it as well so they camped on the floor.

We met Jingles - the neighbor's dog - who was a sweetheart. On Saturday we headed to the Natural Bridge. First we treked through the wax museum

and then we headed down the 139 (or so) steps to the Natural Bridge.

Along the trail there's a Monacan Indian Village and then the best part - the river. It was quite warm so the kids started out with feet in the river...

then legs...then bodies!After they got out we caught sight of some friends swimming nearby...We even got a science lesson out of the trip: frog eggs, pools of tadpoles and, of course, frogs!
Now, remember the 139+ steps down - you need to go back up to get to the car. Or - you can hop in the shuttle! Isabel wanted to walk so Santi and her headed up the stairs. Nick wanted to ride so I was kind enough to volunteer to ride with him. And wouldn't you know - Isabel and Santi beat us up to the top.

Saturday evening the kids got to experience their first drive in movie. We saw "How to Train Your Dragon." The place was packed but for less than $20 we got in and had snacks! What a bargain (http://www.hullsdrivein.com/).

Sunday we took a trip down into the Natural Bridge Caverns. A cool place to see. At one point the leader (Tim) offered to turn off the lights so we could get a feel for how dark it is. Nick decided to take a photo:

Then on a recommendation we went to check out Boxerwood Gardens. What a fabulous find. http://www.boxerwood.org/

This place is the ultimate outdoor playground - with almost everything made from nature (there are a few manmade pieces like the sink and bathtub).

Isabel's mud-fins! Seats for resting...Water pump for getting wet and making mud...We were here for hours and by the time we left the kids were wet, dirty and smiling!

Monday we headed home via the Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive.

A great trip - one we definitely recommend and would definitely do again!

Teacher Appreciation Week

2010-04-28T21:34:00.012-04:00

Next week is Teacher Appreciation Week - or in the case of Isabel's school - Staff Appreciation. It's a chance for parents to say thank you to all those who work so hard to ensure that our children have a safe secure environment in which to learn. Isabel has truly enjoyed her time at William Winchester Elementary - aka Willie. During the week the staff are treated to such pleasures as a catered lunch and a gift card to a local restaurant or store.

In addition, Isabel and I put together these fun gifts (inspired by thestampteacher.blogspot.com and skiptomylou.org):

We filled bags with a food treat, a packet of Crystal Light and a quotation. Then tied the bags to a bottle of water and added a cute tag:

Thanks for the MOUNDS of work you do - included a Mounds candy bar

You are EXTRA special - included a pack of Extra gum

We're NUTS about you - included a package of almonds

You are o-FISH-ally one of the best - included a package of Goldfish

Willie SKOR-d big when you joined our team - included a Skor candy bar

The quotation inside the bag said:

The art of teaching consists of helping students feel that although you may stand in front of them you are really behind them.

It took a while - we needed to make 105 treats!

I have a great respect and admiration for those who can teach. We need more fabulous, dedicated and gifted teachers. When Isabel tells me she wants to be a teacher I cheer her on. Teaching is a definitely a gift and I thank God for those who choose to teach.

I can remember every teacher I had through the 6th grade and most of my junior high and senior high teachers. I remember the good and bad. School was (for the most part) a good experience. And Isabel and Nick both look forward to school and I believe it has a lot to with their teachers.

So, next week - or anytime - remember to say thank you to a teacher.

Quote for life

2010-04-21T10:09:00.003-04:00

The best messes are the ones that just happen when you're too busy playing to notice.
-- Teacher Tom

This is courtesy of teachertomsblog.blogspot.com. This man is an amazing preschool teacher. I loved his most recent art project - Fly Swatter Painting (which is where his quote comes from).

PEEP Show

2010-04-18T23:27:00.005-04:00

Isabel, once again, participated in the Carroll Arts Center Annual Peep Show. After last year's enormous dinosaus she decided to downsize and went with an 'alien cat' design. All done by her own hand - she's a master of the glue gun!

UPDATE: Isabel won the 'Out of the World' Award!
Check out the photos at the Carroll County Arts Council website - carrollcountyartscouncil.org - click on Arts Activities and then PEEP Show and you'll find a link to all the photos. Some very creative ideas.

We love daddy!

2010-04-18T23:14:00.001-04:00

Sandbox Fun

2010-04-18T22:58:00.004-04:00

The kids had fun playing in the sand - just getting ready for the Florida beaches!

The Greatest Show on Earth

2010-04-18T22:19:00.010-04:00

We surprised the kids with a trip to the Circus last night. What fun! Upon our arrival we had to wait a few minutes inside the parking garage for the doors to open. Nick and Isabel asked if this was 'it' and I said yes. Nick's reply - BORING!

We arrived an hour before the show to take advantage of the pre-show. This allowed us to go down on the circus floor and interact with some of the clowns, try on dress up clothes and even walk the tight rope.

The best part was when the clown asked Santi to come up on stage. The clown had him try to balance a pole on his chin and forehead (which he did for about 3 seconds - impressive), then gave him some sunglasses and finally a red nose. At the end we were laughing as Santi discovered he had a white forehead and chin, black eyes and a red nose!

We had made the splurge for the Celebrity Seats which allowed us front row seats - so close we could almost touch these talented elephants!

The clowns came over throughout the show to interact with us. We got a chance to move to floor seats when the tight rope act came on because the rope was stretched right above our seats. And Isabel made special friends with this cute clown.

It was a great time for all!

For Sale

2010-04-10T08:03:00.005-04:00

The house is finally for sale. It doesn't look like our house at all - plain walls, clean counters, beds made. Isabel told me she liked the house the other way - me too. The kids have been great about keeping things put away and I am so grateful. So say lots of prayers the house sells quick!

We are going to especially miss our backyard. Seems in Florida land is a premium. It will take some serious looking to find a house that suits our internal and external needs - the pool being a priority for the kids and the school being a priority for the parents. But I have faith it will all work out in the end.

Florida Bound!

2010-02-03T13:31:00.002-05:00

After much thought, prayer and discussion we made the decision to relocate to Florida. Wow, what a relief to have this decision finally made. We have been in limbo for months, waiting to find out first the location - FL v VA, then if they would offer Santi a job in the new location.

The kids are excited (as much as they can be). We are trying to downplay the move so that Isabel stays focused on school. But when she asks we tempt her with thoughts of her own in-ground pool, trips to Disney since we will only be 3 hours away and trips to the beach. Nick is oblivious to the move idea except he tells me he will miss the snow so I tell him we can come back to a visit in the winter.

Santi met a few of the Miami Visa office folk yesterday and really enjoyed their company. In return they seemed excited to know he was coming and offered lots of encouragement and help with our move.

So now we are Florida bound. As many know I'm a blogaholic so I've been searching for blogs written by moms who living in the Ft. Lauderdale area as that's where we will be living since Broward County has much better schools than Dade County. Here's hoping I can make some online friends and get some good advice before we arrive.

More to come...

Isabel's birthday

2010-01-28T20:54:00.012-05:00

It was a SPY PARTY for Isabel and a few friends from school. One of her favorite shows is Phineas and Ferb which features their pet, Perry the Platypus. Now Perry is really a secret agent, Agent P, which was the basis for her party.

We played some spy games:

- Guess Who - the kids had an animal taped to their back and they had to ask yes/no questions to determine which animal

- Footprints - we traced each child's foot and they had to guess who's foot was who's

- Fingerprints - everyone got fingerprinted and divided into teams, they had to put the name with the fingerprints

- What do you remember - the kids stared at a tray of miscellaneous objects for 30 seconds, then they had to list everything on the tray

- Target shooting - using a gun that shoots rubber discs the kids shot at three baskets to score points

- Pin the Hat on Agent P - just like Pin the tail on the donkey

- Find the thimble - with heads down and eyes closed, one child placed a thimble in plain sight, at the go ahead kids searched from their seats to find the thimble

- Pop the bombs - over 60 balloons covered the floor and the kids went crazy

Then it was cake time. This fabulous cake was made by a dear friend:

Friends!

Then sleepover time!

Happy Birthday Nicholas!

2010-01-22T19:51:00.003-05:00

Five years have flown by my little man. And wow have you grown. You (and your sister) definitely take after the Green side of the family.

Today I got to spend the morning with you at school and you even let Isabel come along. What a fun day. Chocolate cupcakes for you and your friends.

I remember the day before you were born. We celebrated Isabel's 3rd birthday with me volunteering in her classroom in the morning (Mrs. Slater's class). You weren't due for 2 weeks. After school we headed to Dundalk to pick up Nana and then go to the Rain Forest Cafe for an early dinner. By the time we were done dinner I knew I was in labor. The contractions were slow but steady. We got home and as I was putting Isabel to bed I told her that I probably wouldn't be here in the morning because I was going to have the baby real soon. I labored at home for a long while (much longer than with Isabel - my first trip to the hospital resulted in them telling me I was 1 centimeter and to go home - ugh!). By the time we headed to the hospital it was snowing. Daddy parked in the handicapped spot despite my protests. And to my glory I was at 7 cm! Yeah. I labored a while longer, slept a little and by morning you were ready to come into the world. Two big pushes (again unlike your sister who I pushed out for several hours) and you were here. A beautiful miracle.

You are the most amazing little boy - sensitive and caring, generous and kind. I'm so proud to be your mommy. I love you so very much. Happy #5!

Happy Birthday Isabel

2010-01-21T09:44:00.003-05:00

Today she turns 8. Wow - where has the time gone. Seems just yesterday she was wailing loudly (and I mean loudly) when anyone but me held her. Santi and I often remember our trip to Wisconsin to see my brother. Our first night stop was at a hotel in Pittsburgh where Isabel was crying so loudly that the hotel staff came by to see if everything was ok. And in Chicago Santi left Isabel with Brian for a few minutes (although Brian insists he was gone for an hour) while Isabel wailed. She was definitely the queen of wailing. Once we left her with my other brother for a short time (less than an hour) and she cried the whole time.

But now she jumps when a friend calls for her to visit or spend the night. Sometimes I miss the times when she only wanted me but it makes me happy to see her want to spend time with her friends. She's growing up (sigh).

Happy Birthday my beautiful angel! I love you so very much.

The Many Faces of Nick

2010-01-09T22:30:00.005-05:00

I can't believe he's going to be 5 in just a few weeks!

Christmas 2009

2010-01-09T21:33:00.004-05:00

Christmas Morning! Isabel was up first and surprisingly came in to wake Mom & Dad to ask if she could go out and open her presents!

Isabel got LOTS of WebkinzNick got his CRANE - the ONLY thing he asked Santa for!Nick & Isabel both got Snuggies!

Isabel's moment of fame

2010-01-05T14:17:00.004-05:00

Isabel and Casey made the local paper, The Advocate, when they delivered donated items to Carroll Hospital Center. School families contributed the items as part of a donation drive called "Kids Helping Kids" which was held in conjunction with the annual Bingo Spooktacutlar back in October. They delivered more than 200 blankets, infant bodysuits, books, games and more to the Hospital's Family Birthplace and Pediatric Unit.

Blizzard 2009

2009-12-23T22:58:00.003-05:00

Cupcake Ornaments & Puzzle Wreaths

2009-12-19T14:19:00.006-05:00

Isabel, Nick and friends made these adorable cupcake ornaments.

This craft was found on http://www.bakeitpretty.com/blog/?p=511. Super easy to make. You need:

small stryofoam balls

mini cupcake liners

artificial snow

red berries

wire (or twine to make a hanger)

Cover the top 2/3 of the ball with glue then roll in the snow. Girls being girls we then topped with some glitter for sparkle. Hot glue into the cupcake liner. Wrap the wire around the bottom of the berry then stick the berry into the ball. Super cute! (check out Bake It Pretty for more detailed directions - of course).

Nick and Isabel also made these puzzle wreaths for friends. Either cut a cardboard circle and cover with layers of puzzle pieces dipped in glue. Or if you don't want the cardboard circle to show put it under a piece of wax paper to use as a guide. Then lay a layer of puzzle pieces in a circle and begin adding more layers. When finished, add a ribbon, glitter and bow!

Homemade Christmas Trees

2009-12-19T13:01:00.012-05:00

These adorable trees are super easy to make. This craft was done by Isabel's Brownie troop at their Christmas party and Nick made the sample.

Nick's creation

Isabel's creation

I found the on thatartistwoman.blogspot.com/. It's a Christmas craft she did last year - here's the link: http://thatartistwoman.blogspot.com/2008/11/how-to-make-mini-christmas-trees.html. Plus it was posted on One Pretty Thing (http://www.oneprettything.com/?s=christmas%20tree&st=c&s_paged=3) - a favorite blog that pulls craft ideas from all over the web!

HOW TO

(for more specific details check out That Artist Woman's blog)

Just cut felt into 10 circles - 2 of each size. Cut holes in the center and slide them over a toilet paper tube (cut the top of the tube to a V shape). Then decorate - pom poms stick ok with glue and we also used sticky gems and other decorations. Add a gold star to the top. Then take a wooden base (Michaels sells them for $1), cover with felt then hot glue the bottom of the tube to the base. Hot glue the top on the tube to keep it on as well. Add package ornaments under the tree and voila!

Some of the trees made by the other Brownies:

2009-12-15T00:34:00.009-05:00

Isabel has this lovely wreath hanging on her bedroom door. She was the high bidder at the Festival of Wreaths of the beautiful wreath made by her best friend Casey and Casey's sister and mom.

The purpose of the Festival is to raise money for Carroll Arts Center and they do that by having folks bid (silent auction style) on the various wreaths. Apparently, while viewing the wreaths with Grandmom, Isabel bid (note with Grandmom's knowledge) on Casey's wreath. And lucky us, she was the high bidder and she was thrilled when we got the call with the good news.

What's black & white tv?

2009-12-15T00:33:00.001-05:00

Saturday night "It's a Wonderful Life" was on tv so Santi and I sat down to watch. Nick joined us and wanted to know if the tv was broken as there was no color.

More Christmas Fun

2009-12-14T09:24:00.012-05:00

Well, the Christmas spirit has rocked our house. Last weekend the tree, decorations and lights went up. Nick was a pro at putting on the ornaments and really enjoyed picking out just the right spot for each one. Isabel and Daddy helped too and we had a great time. While we add new ornaments each year my favorites are the ones the kids made or those with photos:
The finished tree:

Uncle B usually takes on the lights and gets on the roof to cover the house but due to work schedule couldn't do it this year so Isabel and I tackeled the job. Since neither of us will get on the roof (plus it was cold when we were doing it) we settled for along the line of the house and outlining the door. Of course, typical - the lights worked before we hung them and then once hung half of them decided not to work. Oh well, it still looks festive.

This weekend we all participated in our Church's Live Nativity. Santi was a Wise Man, Nick and I were angels and Isabel was a shepherd. Bummer I didn't get a photo but I was too busy herding the angels. Saturday's performance was outside but due to the rain we performed inside on Sunday. It really is a wonderful experience. We had a lovely couple who just joined the Church along with their 5 month old son play Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus. We had a visit from Bunky, the donkey (who also makes an appearance on Palm Sunday), a calf and a couple of lambs. The animals were the highlight for Nick who informed me next year he is going to be a shepherd so he can be with the animals the whole time.

During the course of the weekend we also made cookies. The kids love making the roll and cut cookies and of course, the decorating of those cookies. Traditional chocolate chips were made as well as Reindeer cookies. Isabel and I made these for her Brownie Christmas party on Tuesday. Turned out cute.

And amid all these activities I think I finished shopping. Now if someone will just take Isabel and Nick for about 5 hours I can do the wrapping!

The Gingerbread House

2009-11-30T22:55:00.004-05:00

Tonight Isabel and Nick worked together to decorate our Gingerbread House. It must be Christmas magic because they worked side by side, sharing all of the decorations, commenting about how each was doing and never a nasty or negative word was said. It was a wonderful 30 minutes or so of bliss!
Nick's finished sides:
Isabel's finished sides:

Christmas begins...

2009-11-30T06:53:00.007-05:00

On Saturday Grandmom took the kids to have breakfast and guess who happened to be there - Santa! Nick shared his list of ONE item - a crane. When we are in the stores he points out tons of things he wants for Christmas but when he sees Santa (this was the second time) he only mentions the crane. He saw this crane at Boscov, it's over 2 feet long and costs $60! Of course Santa will have to put it under the tress.

Then it was Isabel's turn and her list is quite lengthy and she feels the need to share every item on it with Santa. Last year she asked tons of questions about Santa and actually came right out and asked if mom and dad were Santa. We danced around the issue with the reply of 'what do you think." This year she hasn't asked any questions about Santa and seems to totally believe. Plus I've got a little something up my sleeve to keep her believing for at least another year!

Saturday evening we rode on the St. Benjamin's float announcing our Live Nativity program. The float was part of the Westminster Electric Light Parade.

Have a WHEELY Great Christmas

2009-11-28T20:52:00.006-05:00

For the 4th year Isabel has made a wreath for the Carroll Arts Center's Annual Festival of Wreaths. Local individuals, families and businesses make wreaths and donate them to the Festival. They are on display for a week and visitors bid on them to raise money for Carroll Arts Center.

This year Nick wanted to do a wreath as well and since space is limited you are only allowed one wreath per family which meant a compromise for Isabel in working with Nick. The compromise turned out to be the theme since once Isabel got to work on the project Nick didn't really want to participate.

The wreath theme "Have a WHEELY great Christmas" was all about cars and trucks. Isabel came up with the idea of using a tire as the wreath and then glued lots of cars around the outside. The cars were donated by Nick from his massive collection - although he was very very selective about which cars she could use. You'd think he had to give up half his collection but he's got easily over 100 cars so the 15 or so she took will not be missed. In the center was a wood plaque with the word WHEELY - the plaque was painted black and has a yellow line down the middle to resemble a road. Then she took a truck, painted the wheels with white paint and made treadmarks on the 'road' going one way and used a motorcycle for the other side.

The finished wreath:

Last year she did a wreath themed on the book There Was An Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly. The wreath was the belly and she put all the animals from the book around the wreath. Then she made a head - guess who's face she used - to resemble an old lady and photocopied her hands! The wreath came with a copy of the book.

2009-11-26T18:12:00.004-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving. Isabel and I started today by volunteering at Shepherd's Staff with grandmom and many other volunteers. Shepherd's Staff coordinates Thanksgiving dinner for those in need serving close to 300 meals. We arrived at 9 am and were immediately put to work. Isabel stuffed take home bags filled with fruit, cookies and other goodies. I cut pie (and there were about 50 pies to cut, plate and cover). We filled containers with applesauce and cranberry sauce - these will be put with the 'to go' meals that are delivered to shut ins. Then we put rolls and butter on plates. Finally the guests arrived and Isabel was at the head of the line handing out plates and smiles. She worked tirelessly and never asked for a break.

In addition to volunteering she donated over 30 stuffed animals and handed them out to kids who came to the dinner.

It was a wonderful experience for us both and I'm thankful she was so willing to serve. She even told Debbie (the lady in charge) she wanted to come back next year.

Another tooth

2009-11-12T22:55:00.002-05:00

Isabel's front top tooth has been hanging by a thread for the longest time and tonight it finally came out. Hope the Tooth Fairy can find her way here in the rain.

Talented!

2009-11-12T22:34:00.005-05:00

Our church hosted a Talent Show for members of the congregation to demonstrate their many talents.

Isabel and her friend decided to sing a couple of songs from our Vacation Bible School program Outrigger Island in matching outfits.

Nick chose to play the keyboard (he plays by pressing the keys as they light). He performed Twinkle Twinkle Little Star and Happy Birthday.

Daddy and I were very proud of them both.

Isabel is officially a Brownie!

2009-11-04T22:59:00.005-05:00

Last night Isabel officially became a Brownie. The girls said the Pledge of Allegience, recited the Girl Scout Promise and the Girl Scout Law. Then Tracey, one of the troop leaders, pinned her during the Investiture Ceremony. An investiture is a ceremony to officially welcome a NEW girl into Girl Scouting.

Her friends Casey and Leah were 'pinned' as well.

Then the girls also modeled their Try It Halloween costumes. They were supposed to wear them in the Halloween parade but the parade got rained out. Each girl made a replica of a Brownie Try It. Isabel made the Healthy Habits Try It.

Isabel and her proud brother

Happy Halloween

2009-11-02T21:35:00.004-05:00

The costumes this year were buy one, make one. Right after Walmart put the costumes out Nick spied Wolverine and just had to have it. He was disappointed that the costume didn't come with the claws but we painted popsicle sticks gray, added glitter and glued them to some gloves and voila - claws!

Isabel on the other hand started out wanting to be a seahorse, then a dolphin and finally settled on an octopus. We purchased a black sweatshirt and some black tights. Stuffed them, hot glued them and added purple circles from a bath mat, some white puffs for eyes and voila - an octopus!

On Halloween Isabel and Nick carved their pumpkins:

Then we headed out for some trick or treating! By the time we got home their pumpkin buckets were filled to the brim.

As for the Halloween Fairy - she did NOT visit. Isabel changed her mind about 10 minutes into trick or treating.

Kids say the BEST things

2009-10-29T09:12:00.002-04:00

Last night while reading a bedtime story to Nick he looked up and said "Mom, I think God gave me the right mother." Wow! With tears, I hugged him tight. He always knows just what to say.

Bowling with a friend!

2009-10-27T10:07:00.005-04:00

Isabel had given her friend Beth a coupon good for a day of bowling for her birthday (back in July!). I took them on Sunday and what a blast. Isabel won the first two games and Beth came back strong and won the second two.

With kids (mine especially) having so much stuff it's nice to give a gift that allows you to spend time with a friend! Bowling, mini golf, skating, a trip to the zoo - all make great gift ideas for a friend.

Hayride with Nick

2009-10-27T10:02:00.007-04:00

Nick and I went on a hayride to the pumpkin patch at Bupperts Farm with his class (ok, a few weeks ago - I'm a little behind on my postings).

Lots of big pumpkins to choose from but Nick went for the one he could carry himself.

Then through the corn maze.

Halloween Fairy??

2009-10-27T09:58:00.009-04:00

I read this idea about the Halloween Fairy:
(here are 2 but trust me there are more: notquitecrunchyparent.blogspot.com/2007/09/candy-fairy.html and www.sugarshockblog.com/2007/11/halloween-fairy.html).

Seems some folks think their kids get too much candy on Halloween so they have them leave it out for the Halloween Fairy - all but maybe 5 pieces. In return the Fairy leaves them a small gift. Now, personally, I'm all about the candy on Halloween, that's the point - especially if it's chocolate. And I think my kids would agree but I'm going to raise the question to them and see what they say.

I'm thinking they might be persuaded to trade in some of the candy for a gift or two. But all of it - highly doubtful. We'll see!

And by the way, if you're thinking I just let my kids have all the candy they want - you're right kind of. On Halloween night they can eat all they want. The next day it goes in a box and they get a piece or two every so often. Hubby eats the rest!

Just kidding!

Editor's Note: I just checked with Isabel and Nick on the subject of the Halloween Fairy. Isabel's immediate reply (much to my surprise) was Yes (of course she's hoping the Fairy will leave Paperonis - the number one item on her Christmas list). Nick, on the other hand, replied "No way." That's my boy.

Camping...in the rain

2009-10-09T18:22:00.010-04:00

We loaded the van and headed off for Cunningham Falls State Park for a long weekend of camping.

Unfortunately Uncle couldn't join us as he was in Richmond learning to drive a bus! We got the tent up, collected some firewood and got the fire going,. The the kids cooked hotdogs on sticks and roasted marshmallows for s'mores.

The next morning we woke to clouds but after a yummy pancake and egg breakfast we hiked into the woods toward Cunningham Falls. The drizzle started followed by rain drops that kept coming faster and faster. The kids didn't care!
The rain didn't stop and without fire there was no dinner so we went to Cracker Barrel for dinner. Sunday morning it was still raining so we packed up and came home.

Treasure the Moments!

2009-09-30T15:38:00.002-04:00

I've said it before - our children are only small once. Don't rush through this time - enjoy it, savor it, memorize it. Clean houses are over rated!

"The biggest mistake I made [as a parent] is the one that most of us make. … I did not live in the moment enough. This is particularly clear now that the moment is gone, captured only in photographs. There is one picture of [my three children] sitting in the grass on a quilt in the shadow of the swing set on a summer day, ages six, four, and one. And I wish I could remember what we ate, and what we talked about, and how they sounded, and how they looked when they slept that night. I wish I had not been in such a hurry to get on to the next thing: dinner, bath, book, bed. I wish I had treasured the doing a little more and the getting it done a little less.” Anna Quindlen

My Interior Decorator

2009-09-24T12:23:00.005-04:00

Last night I hear this scratching sound and when I look I see this face smiling at me:

Holding this crayon:

And my walls look like this:

My instant response was to grab the crayon and ask why? After his crying outburst he told me that the walls just looked so plain - he wanted to decorate them for me.

He is the sweetest child! So I gave him lots of hugs, reassurances that he didn't do anything that awful (crayon does come off), the artwork was beautiful (but should be on paper) and most importantly, I love him no matter what! Then I gave him the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser and put him to work:

Brownies

2009-09-17T11:03:00.005-04:00

Isabel went to a Brownie meeting on Tuesday and hasn't stopped talking about it yet. She got picked to be the Flag Bearer at the meeting - a treat. Then all of the girls said the Pledge of Allegience followed by the Girl Scout Promise:

On my honor, I will try:
To serve God and my country,
To help people at all times,
And to live by the Girl Scout Law.

I will do my best to be
honest and fair,
friendly and helpful,
considerate and caring,
courageous and strong,
and responsible for what I say and do,
and to respect myself and others,
respect authority,
use resources wisely,
make the world a better place,
and be a sister to every Girl Scout.

The girls then worked together to complete the 'Wave The Flag' Try It. Afterwards, they made brownies, played some games and just talked. A good time for all.

So, it looks like she will officially join the troop! Of course, having one good friend in the troop and another best friend come to the meeting helped make her decision all the easier. The troop has four nice girls plus 2 if Isabel and Casey both join and we are looking forward to our first outing with them on Sunday to Monarch Madness at Bear Branch.

At Monarch Maddess:

Bendaroos

2009-09-08T06:50:00.003-04:00

Thanks to Grandmom we have Bendaroos. Isabel & Nick made designs for Daddy last night.

Nick's snowman & snowball...

Isabel's message to dad...

The ME Collage

2009-08-31T20:37:00.001-04:00

Isabel's first school project of the year - a ME collage.

Parenting

2009-08-28T22:41:00.004-04:00

I was sorting photos and came across a quote that a friend gave me when I had Nicholas. It's a reminder that our children need our love, our time and our attention more than anything else we can give. It's written by Diane Loomans and also posted on her website (http://www.dianaloomans.com/child.htm).

If I had my child to raise over again,
I'd finger paint more, and point the finger less.
I'd do less correcting, and more connecting.
I'd take my eyes off my watch, and watch with my eyes.
I would care to know less, and know to care more.
I'd take more hikes and fly more kites.
I'd stop playing serious, and seriously play.
I'd run through more fields, and gaze at more stars.
I'd do more hugging, and less tugging.
I would be firm less often, and affirm much more.
I'd build self-esteem first, and the house later.
I'd teach less about the love of power,
And more about the power of love.

So, to all my mommy friends, go hug your kids, tell them you love them and ask what they want to do today!

Try this - turn your photo into a kaleidoscope!

2009-08-25T12:03:00.013-04:00

I found this very cool link off of the Magical Childhood blog (http://magical-mama.livejournal.com/53165.html) to http://www.krazydad.com/kaleido/.

The website allows you to take any photo and turn it into a kaleidoscope.

Here's the original photo:

And here are the kaleidoscope pics Isabel made...

By the way, Magical Childhood is a wonderful blog to read if you get a chance check it out! http://magical-mama.livejournal.com

First Day of School

2009-08-23T08:21:00.007-04:00

My beautiful angel started 2nd grade today. She was up before 7 - dressed and ready to go impatiently asking how much longer. She doesn't catch the bus until about 8:45 so the wait was killing her!

It seems like just yesterday she was starting kindergarten!

Here she is with her teacher Miss Ridgely (her second year of teaching!)

Friends

2009-08-23T07:40:00.012-04:00

Wonder what this is...I'll tell you soon!

Isabel and Nick had their very best friends Casey and Emma spend the night. What an adventure. We started the evening by making their names out of clay which was then baked:

Here they are all baked - now they need to cool so it's time to build a tent:

Well, then they wanted to play Twister, so down came the tent and out came the game. Lots of laughs and giggles ensued:

Then pillow fights and more laughs:

Nick crashed around 10 pm but the girls were going strong. At 1 AM I made the executive decision to declare it bed time! Even with the lights out chatter continued for another 20-30 minutes.

We started the next morning bright and early at about 7AM. Apparently Emma had a bloody nose, so she woke Casey. Well, Casey felt that she needed to wake Isabel and then of course, I needed to be awaken. They tried to wake Nick but he was having none of it and continued to sleep until about 9.

They played til Nick got up and then Santi made pancakes. Then it was outside to paint the clay letters they made the night before.

The finished names:

Some swimming fun:

So then I made the mistake of leaving the kids alone with Daddy. I ran to pick up pizza and returned home to find this:

Seems they asked Daddy if they could paint the swingset and he answered, "Sure." So they did!

Chores

2009-08-21T16:17:00.011-04:00

Chores...ugh! Growing up I had chores to do around the house, most of them on Saturday morning and I couldn't go out and play until they were done.

First, let me say I'm not big on the word 'chores' as I believe helping out around the house is part of being a member of the family. We are all responsible for the house - we all mess it up (some more than others) and we all need to help clean it up (again, some more than others). We do reward Isabel & Nick for going over and above what they are responsible for but there are certain jobs they have as members of the family.

Second, let me remind those who have forgotten or just don't know - I am not Martha Stewart. My house will never ever be featured in House Beautiful. I have too many other more important things to do - like playing Uno 10, bouncing in the trampoline, making cookies - than cleaning. So my children don't ever see me spend an entire Saturday cleaning the house. They might see me spend 20 minutes cleaning the bathroom and then head outside for some fun (we call that a fun break).

That being said, we do try to keep a pathway clear so you can walk and we try to keep the crumbs off the floor.

Isabel's responsiblities include emptying the dishwasher, emptying the trashcans on Sunday nights and helping take the bins down the driveway, putting her clean laundry away and keeping her room, hmmm, what's the word - neat, tidy, picked up?? Well, she does a great job with the dishwasher and trash. But the room and laundry...well, that's another story. I have tried everything I know to get her to clean her room. The only things that works are threatening to go in with the trashbag or helping her clean it.

BEFORE:

I find if we work together, we can get it picked up in about 10-15 minutes. Amazing what a little kindness will do!
AFTER - a happy child:

Now, here's a mom of 7 (expecting #8) who writes on the topic of chores and she basically says the same thing about working together. She also disses on rewards and punishments for chore completion - I get her explanation but in my opinion, especially for young children a reward is in order. The reward doesn't have to be tangible - it could just be kind words or an extra hug reminding your child how great they are and how lucky you are to have them!

http://www.se7en.org.za/2009/08/20/7-motivations-to-get-kids-to-do-their-chores-what-works-and-what-doesnt

2009-08-18T13:41:00.004-04:00

Well, the kids are in Gettysburg with Grandmom for a few days. I know I'm supposed to enjoy this time of peace and quiet but well, I miss them. I especially miss seeing them when I get home from work - they both run to the car shouting 'I'm the first one to see you!".

But I did get to have dinner with a long lost friend yesterday and another tonight. And I've started organizing all my craft ideas. I have tons of projects I think the kids would enjoy or could make for Christmas presents and they've been in a big box. So I sorted them into categories and put them in folders. I'm thinking a 3-ring binder might work best for storage. I've got so many projects I could write my own craft book!

I did find one project we need to start working on soon b/c Christmas will be here before you know it. It's an Advent/Countdown to Christmas project. I've found several ideas for counting down that I liked but the one we will create uses an over the door shoe bag - it's perfect with the 24 pockets. The kids can make the numbers 1-24 to go on the pockets and then I'll fill each pocket with a small trinket/candy.

Another idea I came across was to read a book each day during the 24 days and do a related craft. I'm not sure we would get to a craft each day but I definitely like the idea of a new book each evening.

Speaking of books, I'm looking for some new books for the kids. We have tons of books at our house and the kids, especially Isabel, love to read (Yeah!!). Any suggestions for books your kids enjoy??

2nd Grade!

2009-08-12T14:50:00.004-04:00

Isabel just called me at work, thrilled, because she got Miss Ridgley for second grade and that's who she wanted. I believe she is a relatively new teacher - this being her second year on the job - so I'm holding hope that her energy level will be high. Teaching is a tough job, especially if done well.

I'm chairing the Staff Appreciation committee for the PTA again this year and am armed with ideas for how to express our thanks to the staff who work with our kids every day. In the process of finding new ideas I came across this idea which I am totally going to steal...

TEACHER GIFT FOR THE FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL

Purchase a nice bottle of hand lotion or hand soap (Bath & Body Works has a fabulous selection), put it in a lovely gift bag with a note card that says: If I can give you a hand this year, please don’t hesitate to call me and then include my home and cell numbers. I'm thinking with some cute paper from Michaels, my Cuttlebug & dies, glitter, etc. and Isabel & I can come up with a fabulous note card and gift bag. I'll post a pic when it's finished.

A good idea...

2009-08-11T00:33:00.004-04:00

I read this tip on one of the many blogs I check out: If you have trouble remembering where you parked - especially if you are at a mall you don't normally visit, in a garage or at a theme park where there are thousands of cars - take a photo of your entrance, parking level or other parking reminder with your cell phone.

More ideas can be found: http://www.wisebread.com/remember-where-you-parked-your-car-and-more-35-practical-uses-of-a-digital-camera.

Backyard Camping

2009-08-11T00:18:00.004-04:00

Since we haven't had a chance to camp this summer, we slept under the stars in the backyard. A little help getting the tent set up:

And voila!

Dont' worry - we're off to Cunningham Falls for camping in September. Pics to follow.

Colored Sand

2009-08-10T23:53:00.004-04:00

Nick's been bugging me about making colored sand ever since our trip to Dutch Wonderland. There you can fill a bottle with colored sand for several dollars. I told him we could make our own at home and so we did (for a lot less).

First purchase regular table salt (33 cents at Walmart). Color the sand using food coloring - the liquid drops work best. We tried with the gel first since I had more colors but the gel sticks together and doesn't color as well. I used frosting containers for shaking and then later for storing.

Spread the colored salt on a baking sheet and bake at 250 for about 5-10 minutes to dry the salt.

Then use to fill bottles or in our case make cards:

Next we're off to find some glass or plastic bottles for filling!

Butterflies

2009-08-10T23:17:00.005-04:00

Isabel has always loved butterflies so we planted a butterfly bush several years ago to attract them. Here's one type we see frequently: Eastern Tiger Swallowtail.

And here she is before she became the butterfly:

Isabel received the Butterfly Kit last year, along with the frog kit. We decided to try the frog kit first - got the tadpoles but they never turned into frogs. So after the first of the year we will try with the butterflies. Wish us luck!

Fireflies

2009-08-07T12:04:00.005-04:00

One of my nightly rituals has become sitting on the front porch swing with Nick. It's a nice time for us to chat about the day and spend a little time together. Last night we decided to catch some fireflies.

For some cool firefly photos check out: http://www.firefly.org/firefly-pictures.html

Why "The Leaking Life"

2009-08-07T11:17:00.004-04:00

Isabel came up with the name of our blogg because, in her words, "all of our ideas and thoughts leak from the faucet of our brain and drip, drip, drip all day long."

Lollipops

2009-08-07T10:38:00.006-04:00

I found this cool idea (http://www.grouprecipes.com/53292/lollipops.html) for making lollipops out of crushed jolly ranchers so we tried it. The directions said to put the crushed candies in a metal cookie cutter, bake til the candy melts, remove, cool slightly, remove the cutter, add the stick and cool completely. Sounds simple enough.

Well, the kids had no problem filling the cutters and the baking went fine.

It was when we tried to remove the cutters the problems started. I pulled the cutter off the tray and the candy just flowed - completely distorting the shape. So then I waited about 30 seconds - same problem. I waited a little longer and the candy was stuck and it wouldn't come out at all.

So, plan B - free form design.

These turned out great - and tasted pretty good too!

Isabel and Nick are going to share them with friends today. Hope they enjoy them as much as we did.

Swimming

2009-08-07T10:33:00.006-04:00

I am soooo impressed with the change in Isabel & Nick after just 8 swimming lessons. Before the lessons Nick would never put his face in the water and Isabel, only with persuasion and then she needed a towel to wipe her eyes. Now, it's cannonball!

Rainbows!

2009-08-07T10:22:00.006-04:00

Well I overloaded the computer - I have too many photos on there and now there's no room to download more which is why I haven't added any photos here. I'm working on a system to organize them thanks to some advice from a friend: keep a directory for the year and under that one directory per month - then I can just download the photos off the camera each month. At the end of the year pop everything on a dvd. What a great idea. I figure I'll add a label to the year end disc with the kids' ages and any special vacations or events that year.

In the meantime I just popped them on a CD so I could get these over due posts done...

RAINBOWS

A while back the kids were in the pool when Isabel noticed a rainbow. It was the biggest and clearest rainbow I'd ever seen and a first for the kids. What a beautiful site:

Dutch Wonderland with Friends

2009-08-07T09:59:00.009-04:00

Last weekend we took our annual trip to Dutch Wonderland with friends. The kids had a fabulous time despite the rain. The day started great - hot and sunny - so we hit the water park. And, for the first time both kids enjoyed the area where you get super wet. Plus Nick and Isabel, after some persuasion, took a ride on the big slide. Nick loved it and went again. Isabel, not so much - one ride was enough.

After the water park we treked over to the rides. Isabel and Casey were able to ride the antique cars by themselves - and did they ride. Over and over again. Even when the rain came they kept getting back in line, taking turns driving. God help us when they really do learn to drive! Nick's favorite ride was, of course, the roller coaster. I think he rode it 10 times! I couldn't get Isabel on it once even with a bribe of $20!

The day ended with face painting and games! A great day with great friends!

Isabel & Casey enjoy a shower!

Isabel's trip down the big slide - she's in the middle of Kim & Casey - really!

Nick's first trip down the slide with Daddy - he loved it!

Our ride on the monorail
Nick & Emma on the frog hopper

Nick & Daddy on the roller coaster.
Nick, Casey, Emma & Isabel

Face Painting

Best friends.

12 Rules to Live By

2009-07-30T12:03:00.007-04:00

Came across this quote which hit home, especially #2. I can, at times, forget that I'm truly blessed and have need of nothing. We, espcially my kids, are very fortunate to not know what it is to really be hungry (despite their protests). There's plenty of food in our house, a roof over our heads, warm beds to sleep in, my kids are healthy and we have lots of love to share.

12 Rules to Live By

Robert Louis Stevenson

Make up your mind to be happy. Learn to find pleasure in simple things.
Make the best of circumstances. No one has everything and everyone has something of sorrow.
Don’t take yourself too seriously.
Don’t let criticism worry you. You can’t please everybody.
Don’t let your neighbors set your standards; be yourself.
Do things you enjoy doing but stay out of debt.
Don’t borrow trouble. Imaginary things are harder to bear than actual ones.
Since hate poisons the soul, do not cherish enmities and grudges. Avoid people who make you unhappy.
Have many interests. If you can’t travel, read about places.
Don’t hold post-mortems or spend time brooding over sorrows and mistakes.
Do what you can for those less fortunate than yourself.
Keep busy at something. A very busy person never has time to be unhappy.

2009-07-28T22:03:00.011-04:00

Today we headed to the Science Center - highly recommended if you've never been. We were there maybe an hour when Uncle bent down to pick up a ball and stayed down. He had pulled his back out. He continued to lay on the floor of the Science Center hoping the pain would subside but no luck.

So, the folks at the SC were super nice and brought over a wheel chair while I went to get the van.

Off we went to the VA Medical Center. Then back to the SC so the kids could enjoy their time.

Discovering fossils

Laying on a bed of nailsPlaying a stringless harp
Dressed for the South Pole

Performing science experiments

Pulling himself up the stairs

Wearing an astronaut's helmet & gloves

Afterwards, back to the VA to get Uncle and take him home. Tonight he remains on the floor, the pain slightly better but still there. And here's something that we continue to ponder...upon our return home we found that Rosie, Lily and Betty had climbed on top of the window...

Isabel's still wondering how they managed that!

Daddy's Gift

2009-07-27T00:33:00.001-04:00

Homemade gifts are always the best and so for Daddy's birthday the kids decided to make him a favorite treat: trail mix. He's always starving when he gets home from work so they came up with the idea of making a snack he could keep at work. We hit Michaels for some glass jars they could decorate. Here are the finished jars:

We then filled them with a mix of assorted nuts, dried fruits, seeds and, of course, chocolate chips! Daddy started snacking right away.

They also duplicated T-shirts I had made for them for our trip to Disneyworld on the birthdays:

Daddy's Birthday & the Rainbow Cake

2009-07-26T23:17:00.003-04:00

Today we celebrated Daddy's birthday! We made a Rainbow Cake which turned out fabulous. I saw the idea on another blogg (http://www.omnomicon.com/rainbowcake) and modified slightly by making the cake batter per the box. Knowing that the two monkeys would have their own opinions on how the cake should look I gave them each their own 8" pan and away we went.

First we divided the batter into 6 bowls and colored them like the rainbow.

Here's Nick at work from the first color until it's ready for the oven. His technique was a drop, drop, drop...

Then there's Isabel's method - precise with a specific design in mind...

Now they are baked according to the box and frosted with white frosting colored (similar to the batter)...voila:

And here they are once we cut them - very cool!