Well...

Just realized I have started my last 3 posts with Well..... I "will" try to stop doing that!!!! Pretty boring.

A cold for all!

Well, it is official. Scott and I caught Sid's Christmas cold. Scott seems to be worse than I. Kyle has a very mild cough so far and is unaffected. So far, John has no symptoms.

Had a quiet day at home unpacking, doing the laundry (8 jumbo loads!), and cleaning the house. I'll start with the Christmas take down tomorrow. After our ski adventure the Friday before we left for Cali, we discovered that the boys need ski bibs rather than snow pants. Since John will be off to ski club again this Friday, we headed to Target. We found just what we needed....new gloves and a hat too. We also made a quick trip into Costco and Giant Eagle. The new years eve crowds were insane. And just to apease the sick parents, a early dinner at Red Robin. Yum.

When we came home, we all got in our jammies and watched Harry Potter Order of the Phonix in the basement. Sent the kids to bed by 10 and I'm headed in for a hot bubble bath. Happy New Year to myself!!! Scott has been in his "dayquil" coma most of the evening....poor thing.

Here's to 08!!! Bring it on.

A quiet moment

Well, I have a quiet moment, so I thought I would write a quick blog. Scott and Grandma are out taking the Seattle Grahams to the airport. It is just the boys and I here at the house. We have plans to go bowling with the Chris Graham's this afternoon and dinner tonight.

Last night, I made dinner. We started with the infamous queso (velveeta and rotel), followed by Betsy's salad and chicken enchiladas. We have a few leftover which should be good for lunch. Everyone enjoyed and seemed very appreciative. We also ran some errands and basically just hung out. The kids watched Underdog on DVD before going to bed. Scott and I went to the movies and saw Juno. Very funny and pretty cute.

Travel day tomorrow. Probably won't blog. Wish us an uneventful day!!!

It was a great party!

Well, we mananaged to all surprise Grandpa Duke last night at Chris's house. His 70th birthday is in Januaray, so we decided to have a little party while we were all together. Kathleen had hired a fantastic balloon artist to decoarate the house. He made some fantastic blue and silver creations. Duke was extremely surprised by the whole thing. He loved the video I made and the poem Scott wrote. Lots of pictures were taken by all. There was also the classic karaoke which is always a blast. I put a copy of the movie on my picasa website, if you are interested.

Still in California

Sorry it has been so long since my last post. The holiday season is so crazy!!! We are in Los Gatos, CA at Betsy's house. Sid, Charmaine, Michael, Melissa and Lulu the dog are here too. The guys are going to go sell some wine to a local wine shop. We hauled 6 bottles of eagle out here. I am going to take the younger kids to the Alvin and the chipmunk movie. Afterwards, I am going to walk over to Chris and Kathleen's to see what I can do to prepare for the dinner tonight at Chris's.

We had a fun crazy Christmas here at Betsy's. The food was yummy and so was the company. Chris, Kathleen, Jeremy, Justin, Jeffrey, Toby dog, Mema, Duke, Aunt Diane and Jimbo were also here. An afternoon game of family feud was had in addition to a whole lot of game boy action and did I mention, eating!

Off to manage the troops. Will post more often!!

Getting ready for everything!

Big surprise....another cold day in Westlake. Snow flurries most of the day, but no accumulation. I'm feeling the need to get my fall cleanup over with. Scott and I together spent a few hours out front this weekend cleaning up leaves. We tried 2 different techniques. First was the "vaccum" feature on the blower....heavy and slow. Then we moved to the actual blower feature onto a tarp....wow! That tarp took off for the hills, so Scott told me to hold it down while millions of wet cold leaves whizzed by my head! But actually, it worked. Muddy, cold and tired we went in after about 2 hours of fun! Today, when the wind died down, I decided to tackle the leaves on my own while every one was gone. Much more sucess!!! I finished some of the backyard! I still need to cut back the roses, the big grass bushes and the perinnials before the snow is here to stay. Pressure!!!!

Oh and in case I hadn't forgotten, Christmas is coming. I tied 7 perfect bows for the staircase, unloaded the dishwasher, loaded it, ironed clothes and folded 2 loads, cleaned up poop in the study and helped with homework. Tonight Kyle had art class and basketball practice. I just payed the bills and decided to write you fine folks! HOPE you enjoy!

And one more thing....we had yummy Taco Bell for dinner (to make my big boy happy) which has already sent me to the bathroom for an emergency visit. Should be a fun evening!

Love you all!

Yes, it is 26 degrees!

Good morning. My, it is cold this morning. There is a heavy frost on the ground. The grass looks blue. I had a good day working on all the Christmas decoaration. I fussed with the garland on the staircase for quite a while trying to get it spaced right. I didn't do a good job last year. This should make it easier next year.

Boys came home with a decent load of homework. John even brought home a huge difficult word search that I was very annoyed with. Ridiculous busy work is not the purpose of homework. Kyle had a tummy ache last night which seemed to have cleared up this morning. John still has his cough, but is is better.

Scott went to the Cavs game last night. They won in overtime. He had a good time, but couldn't fall asleep until about 4am! I wish him well at work today.

Back to the routine....

We all had a hard time waking up this morning! What a nice break we all had. Thank you!!! Kyle had a great day with his "real teacher" today. This was the first day back from her maternity leave. She is supposed to be fabulous! Scott worked from home all day. I took a nap and went shopping for Christmas decorations. I found a few things, but not a lot. The boys managed to finish all their "make-up" Kumon and went to Kumon. All 4 us went to the rec center around 5:30....Kyle had hapkido, John worked out in the DEN, Scott and I walked the track. Afterwards we all went to dinner at TGI Friday's. We hadn't been there in a while. They have a new section on their dinner menu called Smaller Portions....just perfect! I had a salmon and pasta, Scott had a chicken parmasean, John had ribs, and Kyle had chicken fingers. After the boys went to bed, I watched two episodes of Heroes and played Super Mario Galaxy! I am determined to get caught up with my kids!

Christmas is coming!

John awoke this morning with a stuffy nose and a cough, but it seemed to get better throughout the day. I hope it is gone tomorrow. Scott and I slept in..yeah! Scott went to the office for a few hours. I started getting out some of the Christmas decorations. Logan came over and played with the boys, which helped a lot with electronics "detox". Many, many games of tag and hide and seek were had. When Scott came home, all the boys headed out to put Christmas lights up. It was a warm 42today. All the neighbors were out. I made tacos with Nana's torillas tonight. They were quite the hit! Oh, lots and lots of Kumon math was also done today in an effort to make up what we didn't do in Texas!!! Early bedtimes for the young men and I hope Housewives is a good one.

T-Day, Revisited

What fun we had!

Everyone arrived safely, sleep overs were frequent, friendships were renewed - memories were made!

Things overheard - "You want to play with me?" ~ "Do we need to set the timer?" ~ "I'm eight!" ~ "You want to read a book to me?" ~ "Where is John?" ~ "Anyone seen
Thomas-Kyle?" ~ "Did you eat your dinner?" ~ "You want to get the mashed potatoes WHERE!" ~ "Where's Shane - it's 4am - shopping??" ~ "Nene, can I have a turn when you're finished?" ~ "How about cookies for dessert? Ya want 'em cooked?!" ~ "Are you gonna make that Jello salad tonight?" ~ "Anyone seen John? Anyone seen Shane? Thomas-Kyle gonna sleepover tonight?" ~ "Would you eat a biscuit?!"

There's a ton more, I'm sure! Feel free to jump in here folks!

To the moon, to the moon!

Made it back to Ohio!

We had an easy morning at Nana's packing and last minute playing with cousins. Absolutely no traffic on the way to the airport and no lines. We waited in the admiral's club for our flight. We even landed early. There were traces of snow on the ground here at the house and man is it cold! The dogs were thrilled to see us and I was glad to see them too. I took lots of video with my new camcorder. I can't wait to figure out how to upload them to the internet to share. My friend Kim called and asked me to go shopping with her tonight. I didn't find any huge deals, but I did pick up a few things (mainly my Santa goodies!)

Happy Thanksgiving!

What a fantastic fun day! It was cold, but just enough to feel like Thanksgiving. The Clecklers arrived at Nana's around 11 and King and Cathy arrived around noon. Scott's turkey was yummy and served around 3. HUGE meal was had by all! Games, computer biz and football followed the meal. Fun! Still full. Going to bed.

Perfect Weather!

The sun was shining, the high in the 50s!! It was just one of those brisk fall days that I love so much. I did a little work this morning at the school, then came home just in time to catch the UPS man for a wine delivery! Kyle started his second session of Kidzart today. He really seems to enjoy it. John is attending his 3rd of 4 classes so he can participate in the D.E.N. at the rec center. He is excited to be a big kid. He is also attending a boy scout troop meeting later on this evening to evaluate if they are the ones he wants to cross over to. I have been busy picking up the house and talking on the phone!!! Fun, fun!

I bought a camcorder yesterday. I played with it a little bit, but I am anxious for a family gathering to really check it out! So far, it seems fabulous!

Getting my feet back under me!

What a crazy week! The big EY party I hosted on Wednesday was a success, but it totally wears me out. I also worked at the school book fair all day Thursday and Friday. I just love watching the kids shop for books!! As a result the laundry is behind and I still have many things that still need to be put away. Trying to get caught up and get Scott ready for his trip the NYC tonight.

Had big fun on a Holiday home tour in Bay Village yesterday with Kim. I looooove looking through other people's homes! We also went to a local craft fair where I bought a nice piece beveled glass for the kithen sink window. I also found a priceless gift for Charlotte! Can't wait to give it to her.

Overcast, cold and rainy this weekend, but the colors in the trees still facinate me. The yellows are just striking now.

Back to the house chores!!!

Miss all!!!

It's Wednesday!

Well - I'm so excited, the Cleckler's came last night, and Shane spent hours working on our master bathroom - but the tile work is totally done and it looks AMAZING!

I'll have photos soon, but I'm thrilled. The tile was not easy to work with, and the man has a very full plate with all his commitments - but...he still did "Nana duty" with a glad heart.

Hopefully, the baseboards and reinstallation of the toilet can happen between now and Sunday...sweet!

Mika - will be thinking about you this evening with your dinner party - I know you will be so proud of yourself once it's all said and done...be sure to give a report.

Huge hugs to all -

How Very Cool!

Good Morning All!

How very cool! I'd love to contribute -

It's really my fav time of year in North Texas - very cool mornings - and sunny barely warm days. Our time changed thsi morning, and it will finally be fully light when I leave for work in the mornings. Friday, I noticed it much too dark at 7:40 for children to be walking to school, etc - glad for the light.

We continue at the natatorium most days - just feels good to be doing something healthy for ourselves - unfortunately keeping that commitment long-term always seems to be a battle for us - I'm sure this is not the last you've heard on this subject from me...

We're getting all geared up for Thanksgiving visit - can't hardly wait!

I'm off to Costco this morning to order cake/etc for one more reception this week. Shannon Craft, our special events coordinator has accepted a position with the Dallas Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America. So - here I go for one more cake, one more bowl of punch, one more snacky thing! Yes, I could make it so much easier on myself if I just picked up the phone and called Brookshires! (Just love that darned Costco cake too much for my own good!)

Better hush and get busy - got too much to get done today!

Big hugs and much love to all -

Here are all the kids going out trick or treating!

It's me :-)

This is our last day :-( Everyone is bummed (actually, Thomas is in denile about us leaving. I think we could abandon him here and he would be fine with that. He considers these boys brothers rather than cousins.) Now that I am side tracked and talking about Thomas I have to tell you that he was so cute to watch when he saw NeeNee at the airport. He couldn't make eye contact because he knew he would start to cry if he did. In the past he just held on to her tightly and let out a few tears. I guess manhood is starting to creep up on him ;-)

She had a stuffed animal in her pocket for both kids which Charlotte has hung onto the ENTIRE trip. Pink Kitty is her name and she is our new best toy. (The new polly pocket set comes in second.) She is the perfect size for Charlie's little hand. It was a hard adjustment at first here for her. It is louder and the two power puffs are quick and like to bark ;-) But NeeNee took time with her and showed her how to pet and 'be' with them and that helped. But I have to say that the most help with adjusting here was Cousin John. She took to him immediately. (Nana and I were talking about this and it seems even as a little baby she did. So, the connection continues!) He plays with her so sweetly and takes time with her. Love it!

We have had so much fun and we aren't done yet!

They landed at 2 am Monday night/Tues am!!! Oh my. Flight was delayed.

Tuesday - Kyle went to school late so he could see his buddy. The toys were immediately pulled off the shelves! A day of rest and getting used to Neenee's dogs was needed. Kara and Shane enjoyed a nice bike ride/walk around the hood.

Wednesday - The Clecklers and I were at the zoo when it opened. We had simply perfect fall weather!! The zoo was practically deserted and ours to enjoy! Scott came home about 3, and we started the preparation for trick or treat! I set up the airblown Scooby and the fog machine. We prepared the dining room table with 22 bags of candy!!!!! a small fortune! I made a spaghetti dinner and off we went. The "hood" was packed with kids! So amazing. Scott stayed home and manned the door while I toured the kids around. FUN!

Thursday- John and Kyle stayed home from school....so naughty I know. Scott also stayed home from work. We all went to Costco, then to Brio for lunch. We then dropped Scott off at home and the rest of us enjoyed the Great Lakes Science Center. I had a PTA mtg that night.

Today - Kara and Shane had a date day. They had lunch at the Cheescake Factory and shopped at Crocker Park. I had some very sweet time with T and Charlotte. The three of us scootered to Kyle's school and the electronics have been in full swing ever since! Shane and Scott played basketball this afternoon and Kara and I went to JoAnn Fabrics and Tuesday morning this evening! Let the scrapbooking begin!

And......we still have tomorrow!

They are coming tomorrow!

Another stunning fall day here in Ohio. Sunny and brisk. LOVE IT! I hung curtains in the kitchen today and Scott setup the ping pong table on top of the pool table in the basement today. Needless to say, it was a hit with all the boy types in the house.

I also managed to make a repair on my pc today that has been bugging me for a long time. And the best news is, it didn't cost me a thing!

Still can't decide which camcorder to buy. Anyone got any suggestions? We are stuck. HD or standard? We are sure about a hard drive, but cannot decide which one.

Clecklers land tomorrow at midnight! Getting everything read for their arrrival. Hopefully Kara will post here next week.

Thank goodness it is Friday!

I think everyone one here will agree that we are excited it is Friday. If John comes home with another "no hole punch" day, he will be awarded with the guitar hero game for his Wii. Thrilled is just not a good enough word!

A busy day as usual planned here. I have a science day meeting and John has an appointment with a eye doctor. John is having problem with his distance vision again. Time for new specs. And by the way we had a visit with his ortho yesterday. It appears his expander is working! I was so afraid he wasn't wearing it enough.

Scott is taking my place tonight as a parent volunteer Parkside Halloween party. When I got wind that I was assigned as dressing up as a mad scientist in the haunted house, I knew that Scott was meant for the job! Parents and siblings are not allowed, so I will not be able to take pics. You will just have to use your imagination!

By the way, Kyle is working on building a Hogwarts castle out of cards for Thomas! I can't wait to get it off my kitchen table.

Love to all.

Okay, so it has been a while!

So I will just jump right back in there. Harvest Day went well last Friday. I managed to make it home before midnight and Scott didn't spend too much money at the silent auction. He loves em! Kyle had a fantastic birthday on Saturday. He invited his two best buddies over for a trip to Long John Silver's, the movies and then a sleep over. We all survived!! There are pictures on my picasa website.

I love Wednesdays!!! Kim and scrapbooked from 10 till 2. Have I mentioned that I love it?!

I came home to a delivery from Pottery Barn. I ordered a darling red and beige striped valance for my kitchen. It added so much charm. I just ordered a new wallpaper border for the kitchen as well. I should have done it a long time ago! Scott and I are hosting a EY party here on the 7th. I am totally motivated to get some things done! Wow, what a deadline can do! I'll take pics soon.

The Clecklers arrive shortly. Kyle is just beside himself with a daily countdown and comments like, "I wish Thomas was here". So cute. John had a trumpet lesson tonight. His teacher is thrilled with his progress and so am I! He is playing scales already....just 2 and a half months of playing. He had never even read music before. He rocks!

The Fall color has really kicked in here and the highs are in the 50s. I love to kick open the doors and freeze out the entire family. A lot of my Ohio friends are complaining about it being too cold, but not I!!!!

Miss everyone! Mark your calendars. We will be in Allen the 18th to the 23rd.

5th grade rocks

This morning was parent visitation at John's school today. I was there for about 2 hours watching his science and math class. I can say that I am really glad that I am not in 5th grade anymore! He is in a really large class, but the teacher seems to handle it well and they have a student teacher. And for anyone still counting, the boy still has a clean punch card for the month of October!

I am very busy this week with my PTA duties. We are in the final week of our big fundraiser and also collecting money for Harvest Day which is on Friday. I'll be glad when this week is over. Maybe a margarita afterwards?

Kyle's birthday is creeping up on me and I still don't have anything planned. I did take him to the store tonight and picked out some treats to give to his classmates on Friday. John and I will go shopping tomorrow while he is at hapkido. I'll nail something down tonight or tomorrow when I see Scott. The cub scout campout is the night of his birthday, which is good and bad. If we don't go (we are expecting a high of 50 and rain), all his friends will be there. Hummmmm.

If you aren't aware of baseball, let me clue you in on what is going on in this town. They have gone NUTS for the Indians. Parents are letting their kids stay up way way too late!!! Even kids Kyle's age are staying up past midnight on school nights to watch baseball. I'm thankful that my boys don't care, but it is crazy here!

Off to bed!

Not Much

Not much to say about today which is nice! I spent some time organizing in the office and helping Scott get ready to go to Dallas today. Boys played outside for quite a while. The boys and I didn't leave the house at all! Nice. Really looking forward to Despartate Housewives.

One more thing

I just have to mention that the post time is always in West Coast time which is 3 hours off from us on the East Coast. It is 11:30 PM here!

Cold, lazy Saturday

Well, fall has arrived. It was chilly and overcast today. We all slept in....especially Scott....11AM! We went on a family outing to the grocery store. I made 7 layer dip and chocolate chip cookies, then took them to a friend's house in Shaker Heights for dinner. What a cute house. There were 4 couples there in total. We were the only ones who were not pregnant or did not have a baby younger than 8 weeks old. I felt like an old lady! We had a nice time and they all really seemed to enjoy my charming little men. All the couples were EY transfer families who will be in Cleveland for 3 years. We did have a lot ot talk about. Looks like the Indians are still playing. Waiting for the sheets to get out of the dryer so I can go to bed. I know I should get another set, but they are so darn expensive! I love how soft this set is. Missing everyone!

Kara, I saw your new pics today. You got some really fantastic shots of both kiddos. Can't wait to hug both of them!

Come on Boys, hurry up!

Let me start by saying the boys had the day off today!!! Yeah! We all slept in....except for Kyle who never does! Almost immediately, the Bird store called and said she was holding a reindeer webkinz for my school basket. We through ourselves together and ran out the door. After our Bird store stop, we went to the Halloween store to select costumes. John knew immediately what he wanted....a wicked jester....easy!!! It was all way too overwhelming for Kyle. He looked and looked and looked, then proclaimed he was just going to be Link again!!!! As soon as we walked out the door, Scott called and wanted us to join him for lunch. I never say no to lunch! So we headed downtown, picked up Scott on the corner and had a nice lunch at the Cleveland Chophouse. On the way home, we stopped by the bank, the dry cleaners and CVS to get more photos! When we walked in the door, Kyle wanted his friend Tom to come play. Sure, why not?! Not long after that the phone rings and our babysitter calls to invite us to dinner tonight. It is her 14th birthday. I never say no to dinner either! We take Tom home, and meet our friends and Scott at the Winking Lizard where the Indian game was on and very loudly I might add. On the way home, we stopped at Blockbuster to get a movie. We are finally home!!! Yeah! I'm off to tuck in the boys and to watch a DVD with Scott. The odds that I won't fall asleep during it are looking pretty slim!

Run Around Thursday

I know it has been a while since my post, but my weekdays are so busy! Today was second grade visitation. Kyle's class did an adorable Christopher Columbus play and song for all the parents. We also participated in a craft project together. Afterwards, I took Kyle to his requested fast food restaurant, Taco Bell. After a lightning quick lunch, I dropped him back at his school and raced back to Taco Bell to get John and his friends some yummies. I managed to arrive at his school just in time for his lunch time. I was quite the hit with "the guys". They all wanted to know when Mrs. Graham would be returning! Of course! After leaving Parkside, I then headed to my friend Kim's house to pick her up to go to Target together. We raced through, but I managed to find an adorable lobster costume for Belle! I won't do that to little Miss Nikki. The lobster is complete with a tail and claws. It is hilarious.

When John came home from school today, he had manged to reach a very specific milestone.....3 weeks of no hole punches. His promised reward was an old refurbished iPod shuffle! I haven't seen John so happy in a long time. These past few weeks have been just a joy.

Lots of drizzle rain today, but it is needed. Highs in the low 50s. I just love it! I love being in sweats.....for now anyways!

Boys are out of school tomorrow. Costume and jean shopping are on the agenda as well as lunch with Daddy in his office.

Love to all!

Last day with Grandma

Another warm day in Westlake. Wow and wierd. We had a nice morning. Betsy and I went to Wild Birds Unlimited, TJMaxx homegoods, Tuesday Morning and the pet store to look at puppies. I think she is ready for a puppy after the holidays! Scott washed his car. There were more games around the house this afternoon. We all went for a really nice dinner at the Cabin Club followed by ice cream at Baskin Robbins. I think the boys are all set for school tomorrow. They are upstairs reading. When I am done with this post, I'm going to make some waffle batter for in the am, followed by some Desparate Housewives. Wish you all were here to have some!! Super rich and yummy.

Betsy's flight is at 11:30 tomorrow. She is off to New York to visit her sis. House cleaners also come...yeah!

Lazy, warm Saturday

So weird this weather....almost 82 degrees today. Scott and Betsy went to the Westside Market this morning and picked up some fresh chicken, pasta and veggies for dinner tonight. The kids and I enjoyed no schedule and hanging out. A couple of neighborhood kids have passed through the house. We drew names for the Graham Christmas drawing. Grandma is attempting to play Spongebob Monopoly with the boys as we speak. Getting ready for dinner!

Miss ya'll.

Yesterday - Friday

What a warm day!!! After getting the kids and Scott off, Grandma and I went shopping. We went to my favorite plant nursery, Pettiti. We saw amazing perennials and Christmas decorations. We had a super yummy, but cheap burger at Five Guys for lunch. Kyle was so excited to see Grandma when he came out of school! So cute. She had arrived so late on Thursday, he as asleep. John was also exited to see Grandma when he got off the bus. Scott came home early. We went to Crocker Park, Brio for a yummy dinner followed by a trip to Barnes and Noble for books for the boys. We finished the evening by watching the Indians game and Grey's Anatomy!

Late and Early

So, I missed yesterday and I am early with tonight's entry....

Yesterday, I enjoyed a morning of errands which included a trip to the dentist for John...no cavities! Kyle had hapkido and John had trumpet lessons. They both really seem to enjoy both activities. Honestly, I can't remember anything other than that!!

I took Kyle to the dentist this morning.....no cavities. Boy, are his teeth crowded, much worse than John. She was pleased to hear that he will be starting his orthodontic treatment next month. I spent the rest of my time tidying up the house getting ready for Betsy's arrival. The boys have Kumon tonight and studing for spelling tests. John has scouts tonight. Kyle is going to a friend's house while I'm at the PTA meeting. Scott has taken a friend's to the Indian's playoff game tonight. Betsy should arrive via the EY "driver" around 8!

We are experiencing a very warm fall here, but it is still pretty nice...highs in the low 80s!

And...."yip and yap" say hello!

Miss everyone,
Mika

Scrapbooking Today!

So cool!! I was able to add a picture from last night of Kyle breaking his boards in Hapkido.
My goodness he was proud. I wish I would have remembered to take a picture of him with the new green belt on!

After a morning of chores, I met Kim at Archiver's to scrapbook. We were there from 11 till 2. We both got a fair amount done. Love it!

Kyle stayed after school for his first Kidzart class of the semester. He still really seems to enjoy it and has a few friends he enjoys there. John came home from school with another good report. Boy, am I a proud moma! John also attended a skills and drills of basketball class at the rec center. It seems to be a good experience.

Scott is out to dinner with his bosses tonight. I'm off for some downtime in front of the TV!

Busy Monday!!

Mondays always seem busier than usual. This morning I worked on a little scrapbook for Betsy and the PTA tax return. When the boys came home, we hit the ground running! We first had Kumon, then headed straight to the rec center for Kyle's Hapkido class. Kyle broke boards for his green belt tonight! We are very proud of him. I then drove the a McD drivethrough and then straight to John's school for a ski club informational meeting. All in all, we left at 4:15 and did not return until 8.

Ski club sounds very cool. On days were the weather and snow permits, buses will leave John's school on every Friday when school lets out. They then drive 45 minutes to the ski resort. They have lessons and free time. They bring them home by 9:30. Too cool!!! He is excited, but a little nervous about being a "never ever" before skiier. I have tried to assure him that he will learn quick.

This old lady is off to bed.....another early morning tomorrow!

Sunday, September 30 2007

Another perfect day here in Ohio. I had the doors and windows open all day. We went out for lunch today at our favorite restaurant, Red Robin. We then made a quick trip to Costco to start our research on digital camcorders. Since Best Buy is nearby we also popped in there. John found a demo of guitar hero and is in love! Good thing he has some money and guitar hero is coming out for the Wii soon. After heading home, we all went to our "corners". I headed out to the yard to plant some mums and the boy people went to the basement. About 5PM the neighborhood children started rolling through the house. At one point I think there were 6 extra children here! Scott and I are really looking forward to new TV tonight. I hope it doesn't disappoint.

Saturday, September 29 2007

What a gorgeous day!! Sunny and the highs in the 70s. After a slow morning of TV and chillin, we went door to door in the neighborhood to sell boy scout popcorn. I dressed both the boys up in the uniforms and went spent about an hour knocking on doors. They sold about $200 of popcorn! You could tell most people hesitated, but just couldn't say no to the cute little boys! One man even commented that they looked like the "poster children for scouts".

John asked his friend Aswin to come over to play and he is still here. We are going to a neighborhood clam bake (clams, chicken, corn and sweet potatoes) across the street. Aswin is going to stay for a while.

Better run out and join the activites. The boys are playing kick the can and Scott has organized a game of football with the bigger boys.

Friday, September 28 2007

I woke with with quite the headache this morning. I was glad that it wore about around noon. I headed to lunch with my friend Shelly at Panera Bread, then she and I headed to Petitti gardens to look at fall decorations.

Scott called around 1 and announced he was done at work and came home!!! What a nice surprise for all of us. He spent most of the afternoon looking at our family budget...no fun!

John came off the bus today with a great big thumbs up. He met his goal of five straight days of no hole punches!!! He was so proud of himself. I loaded him up and we made the 25 minute drive to the nearest Taco Bell where he ate 3 tacos and a nacho bellgrande!!!

Scott and the boys rode their bikes to the high school this evening to watch the homecoming parade. They loved the candy and the band. I emptied the van and picked up a huge load of boy scout popcorn. I then spent some time unloading and sorting with my neighbor. When I finished that duty, I picked up some pizza from a new restaurant and it was fabulous! Scott actually thinks it resembles Round Table.

Boys are off to bed. Scott and I are headed to the basement to watch Knocked Up. We have have heard good things about it.

Thursday, September 27 2007

Had lunch with 3 other friends today at an Indian restaurant. I was very cautious, but agreed to go because I didn't want to seem "un-chic". Suprisingly, it was pretty good!

John came home with another thumbs up. No hole punches today which is a new world record for him.....4 days in a row. I am also proud to say that he plays his trumpet all the time. He proclaimed tonight, "I'm so proud of myself".

For the first time in weeks, Kyle managed to occupy himself with the toys in the basement after school today. Yea! He seemed to really enjoy himself. Amazing what electronics can do to a kid's creativity......

Finally feels like fall around here. The high was only 70. The leaves are starting to fall. The back sliding door is standing open as I type.

Scott has been to dinner with the bosses.....still not home yet. I am waiting for him to come home to watch the new Grey's and Survivor. Guess we will wait untily the weekend.

Ni-night.

Wednesday, Sept 26, 2007

Just a quick note..... 3rd day in a row with no punches! He is also feeling like a super star trumpeter! Still has quite the load of homework which is somewhat caused by not following the directions the first time. He is getting there! No phone calls home and no detentions.

Other news....

Betsy is coming next Thursday to Monday. It is a short visit, but she is on her way to visit her sister Diane for her birthday. She hasn't visited her at her home in probably 20 years!

Kyle is extremely anxious for his birthday and for Halloween!!! That is all he talks about.

I scrapbooked today!!! So happy.

Dogs got a bath yesterday and a cold front is coming!! Leaves are starting to turn and fall.