Well, Christmas didn't feel much like Christmas, and it's already long gone it seems... and 2007 is just a skip away. I'm hoping that 2007 will bring some brighter days, but so far it is not looking so promising! Yikes!
The four of us are getting on an airplane tomorrow to Long Beach... going to try to mix the good with the sad. We picked out funeral clothes today... a pretty little dress for Samantha and a nice pair of black pants for David. There's packing to do and work I need to get done...but I just feel like a slug.
Sorry for the melancholy post, but I really meant to wish you all a very Happy New Year and a great 2007. Don't give up on me yet for the Christmas cards...they will go out! I promise!!!! Be back in a week!
**HUGS**
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Sunday, December 24, 2006
A Peaceful Release...and a Fiesta in Heaven
Though my heart is really broken right now... I'm posting this because many of you ask me on a regular basis about someone so very special in my life...
Very, very peacefully, my little grandma took my grandfather's hand and went home to Heaven yesterday afternoon. I just know that she is there now in his arms and hugging her younger sister, her parents...everyone she ever loved...and they just had to have been all gathered around with sweet mariachi music and lots of warm tortillas...just waiting to welcome her home and celebrate the end of her long enduring pain. She's safe now, and can finally rest.
Her poor little battered body was just so tired, and though the dialysis was helping her feel better lately, a recent procedure to put a stint in her arm left her with a terribly painful and numb hand. She was just getting more and more worn out. She was just so tired and ready for some rest.
She had a good day, everyone reports. My aunt styled her hair for her. She went to dialysis earlier than usual, and even went shopping afterwards. She came home and asked my cousin Amanda to wrap up a purse for my aunt while she went to rest in bed. It was only minutes that Amanda returned to Grandma's room and found her not breathing. It was so quick and peaceful in her own bed, in her own apartment, with family.... and that was really all we hoped for her, that it would be quick and peaceful and dignified.
She is so beautiful and I miss her so much... I missed her even before she left. I can't imagine what it will be like now without her physically here in my life, but I am happy for her, and I carry her with me in everything I do.
I love you so much, Little Grandma!!!! You are the most beautiful little woman with the biggest heart...and you gave me so much love and joy all of my life. You did nothing but give care and love to everyone you knew... real, rich, unconditional love. You are amazing, and I'm just so blessed that you were mine.
I knew you had to leave soon, Grandma...but I still can't believe you are actually gone. I wish I could just scoop you up in my arms again and hold you forever.
The kids and I were at the mall...and I think even taking this picture at the moment she passed or shortly after because it was no more than a minute or two that my mom was calling me...but didn't want to tell me until I got home. So here, Grandma, maybe you saw us taking this picture...I was thinking of you when I snapped it and how you would be so tickled by it, and I was going to rush home and send it out for printing so I could put it in your package on Tuesday...but well.......so this last picture is for you!! This picture will forever mean so much to me... to remind me of where I was when you closed your beautiful green eyes to this world, and I can see your smile on the faces of my babies.
David was really upset...but I just explained about the Fiesta in Heaven and how Little Grandma is now having a wonderful Christmas homecoming with everyone she missed so much. It seemed to cheer him up a little bit.
MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!!!!!!!!!
and thank you just for thinking of us... no need to call or write or comment if you don't wish... but just knowing you cared enough to read this post and took a second to mentally hug us... that's means more to me than anything, and please know that I love you too. All my best.... Rachel
Very, very peacefully, my little grandma took my grandfather's hand and went home to Heaven yesterday afternoon. I just know that she is there now in his arms and hugging her younger sister, her parents...everyone she ever loved...and they just had to have been all gathered around with sweet mariachi music and lots of warm tortillas...just waiting to welcome her home and celebrate the end of her long enduring pain. She's safe now, and can finally rest.
Her poor little battered body was just so tired, and though the dialysis was helping her feel better lately, a recent procedure to put a stint in her arm left her with a terribly painful and numb hand. She was just getting more and more worn out. She was just so tired and ready for some rest.
She had a good day, everyone reports. My aunt styled her hair for her. She went to dialysis earlier than usual, and even went shopping afterwards. She came home and asked my cousin Amanda to wrap up a purse for my aunt while she went to rest in bed. It was only minutes that Amanda returned to Grandma's room and found her not breathing. It was so quick and peaceful in her own bed, in her own apartment, with family.... and that was really all we hoped for her, that it would be quick and peaceful and dignified.
She is so beautiful and I miss her so much... I missed her even before she left. I can't imagine what it will be like now without her physically here in my life, but I am happy for her, and I carry her with me in everything I do.
I love you so much, Little Grandma!!!! You are the most beautiful little woman with the biggest heart...and you gave me so much love and joy all of my life. You did nothing but give care and love to everyone you knew... real, rich, unconditional love. You are amazing, and I'm just so blessed that you were mine.
I knew you had to leave soon, Grandma...but I still can't believe you are actually gone. I wish I could just scoop you up in my arms again and hold you forever.
The kids and I were at the mall...and I think even taking this picture at the moment she passed or shortly after because it was no more than a minute or two that my mom was calling me...but didn't want to tell me until I got home. So here, Grandma, maybe you saw us taking this picture...I was thinking of you when I snapped it and how you would be so tickled by it, and I was going to rush home and send it out for printing so I could put it in your package on Tuesday...but well.......so this last picture is for you!! This picture will forever mean so much to me... to remind me of where I was when you closed your beautiful green eyes to this world, and I can see your smile on the faces of my babies.
David was really upset...but I just explained about the Fiesta in Heaven and how Little Grandma is now having a wonderful Christmas homecoming with everyone she missed so much. It seemed to cheer him up a little bit.
MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!!!!!!!!!
and thank you just for thinking of us... no need to call or write or comment if you don't wish... but just knowing you cared enough to read this post and took a second to mentally hug us... that's means more to me than anything, and please know that I love you too. All my best.... Rachel
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
I'm broken again and Random Acts of Cuteness
Man, getting older is not easy! I'm going to be 32 this January, and I'm ready to just lay down and give it all up. Well, remember a year ago last November when I had the problem with my sciatic nerve? It's back with a vengeance! So this time it's unbearable though, and I decided I better bite the bullet and go see the orthopedic surgeon. So I did, and got sent right away for an MRI. We'll found out on Friday just how bad it is, but the word "herniated" was in that conversation, and I'm hoping it won't really be a herniated disk.
Anyway..........on to some random cuteness
-----------------------------------------
Overheard while David and Samantha were fighting in the other room:
David: "Santa Claus!!!!!! Samantha is being a bad girl!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
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Samantha looking concerned and worried says: "Mommy! I can feel my heart here (touching chest) and over here (touching more to the left). Do I have two hearts???
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David on floor talking to himself says, "I'm just here by myself with no friends. (Spots the inflatable Strawberry Shortcake balloon doll thingy deflated on the floor) I'll blow up a friend to play with!"
Ah, his first inflatable doll experience! LOL!
Anyway..........on to some random cuteness
-----------------------------------------
Overheard while David and Samantha were fighting in the other room:
David: "Santa Claus!!!!!! Samantha is being a bad girl!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
-----------------------------------------
Samantha looking concerned and worried says: "Mommy! I can feel my heart here (touching chest) and over here (touching more to the left). Do I have two hearts???
-----------------------------------------
David on floor talking to himself says, "I'm just here by myself with no friends. (Spots the inflatable Strawberry Shortcake balloon doll thingy deflated on the floor) I'll blow up a friend to play with!"
Ah, his first inflatable doll experience! LOL!
Monday, December 18, 2006
Hi there!
Only one week until Christmas!!!!!!!! ACK!!!
I have lots of posts today, so make sure to keep scrolling!
Hugs to everyone!!!
I have lots of posts today, so make sure to keep scrolling!
Hugs to everyone!!!
Holiday Brunch
Sunday was our fancy holiday brunch at Pisces restaurant at the Hyatt, Inner Harbor, Baltimore. It's on the top floor and has a gorgeous view of the harbor! The weather has been beautiful lately!
Here is a zoomed-in view of the harbor from the restaurant...
We were given entrees to choose from, in addition to the wonderful buffet. I chose the seared rock fish and lobster tempura! It was quite delicious and beautifully presented!
Here are the lovely ladies that keep our office running smoothly: from left to right, Wendy, Kari, Teena the Great, and Stephanie. Aren't they pretty??
And then there is Keith and me too...
The owner of the firm I work for is very kind and generous, and it was a fantastic holiday brunch!
Here is a zoomed-in view of the harbor from the restaurant...
We were given entrees to choose from, in addition to the wonderful buffet. I chose the seared rock fish and lobster tempura! It was quite delicious and beautifully presented!
Here are the lovely ladies that keep our office running smoothly: from left to right, Wendy, Kari, Teena the Great, and Stephanie. Aren't they pretty??
And then there is Keith and me too...
The owner of the firm I work for is very kind and generous, and it was a fantastic holiday brunch!
Just Cute!
Sammie and our cousins' new puppy. Not sure what the puppy's name is, but s/he sure is adorable!!!!!
(Photo by Miller Family)
(Photo by Miller Family)
You've Got Mail!
Saturday brought two packages, and this post is just to let the senders know that I got them!
First... a box from Amazon. The sender is secret, and I don't want to open it until Christmas, but just wanted whoever sent this package to know it arrived safely and thank you very much!!!! I can't wait to see what it is! That was very sweet of you, and I'll post more when it's actually open on Christmas! THANK YOU SECRET SANTA!!!
Second... another box came Saturday. This time I do know the sender, and she will know who she is too. Thank you soooooooooooooooooooooooooo much!!! That was really, really, really generous of you. I picked up the box and Lightning McQueen was talking to me! LOL! Again...presents will be saved for Christmas morning, and I'll report back then, but in the meantime, it arrived safely! THANK YOU SO MUCH, SANTA!!!
First... a box from Amazon. The sender is secret, and I don't want to open it until Christmas, but just wanted whoever sent this package to know it arrived safely and thank you very much!!!! I can't wait to see what it is! That was very sweet of you, and I'll post more when it's actually open on Christmas! THANK YOU SECRET SANTA!!!
Second... another box came Saturday. This time I do know the sender, and she will know who she is too. Thank you soooooooooooooooooooooooooo much!!! That was really, really, really generous of you. I picked up the box and Lightning McQueen was talking to me! LOL! Again...presents will be saved for Christmas morning, and I'll report back then, but in the meantime, it arrived safely! THANK YOU SO MUCH, SANTA!!!
Another Depo Buddy!
I think I'm going to make a new hobby out of taking pictures of weird "Buddies" at depositions. What do you think? CPR guy was really funny...but here is another "Buddy" at a lawyer's office in Annapolis. I think he has a little problem with his arm though. What a great sense of humor this attorney has!
A Visit to Frog Hollow
We went to Maryanne's for our Christmas tree again this year. We got to see a chicken on a nest who laid two eggs and left a feather! We picked out a beautiful little tree (still undecorated), talked with the fabulous Rudy Patootie who is recovering from a scary incident with a trap, and had fun picking out gourds. Maryanne is the absolute best, and I wish I could just move into her house. LOL!
Here are just some highlight photos. Now if I could just get that tree decorated!
Here are just some highlight photos. Now if I could just get that tree decorated!
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
"Where Pillsbury gets their Crescent Rolls"
This one had me rolling on the floor too!!!! Just had to share it!
Sunday, December 10, 2006
Overheard at Target
Woman in a very loud voice asking her daughter about what mittens she wanted...
"SO YOU WANT YOUR THUMB IN ONE HOLE AND THE REST OF YOUR FINGERS IN THE OTHER HOLE?"
"SO YOU WANT YOUR THUMB IN ONE HOLE AND THE REST OF YOUR FINGERS IN THE OTHER HOLE?"
Friday, December 08, 2006
Return of the red dress...
Samantha has this little red velvet dress that our friend Jennifer gave her at Christmas a year or two ago. She wears that dress ragged! Anyway, she was parading around as usual and I noticed how filthy it was! "Sammie! That dress has to go in the laundry now! Hey, how about I find your other little red dress from Yoko's wedding?"
Sammie: "Yeah! I want to wear my wedding dress!"
Yes, she remembers the dress. She wanted to put the little black shoes on too, and that resulted in a tantrum after what resembled a scene from Cinderella. She wears a size ten now, and these were size six!! It was hilarious!
So she puts on this dress... WHERE DID THE TIME GO???? I know, I say that a lot, but man, these kids are growing so fast.
THE RED DRESS: THEN AND NOW...
January 2005...
December 2006...
January 2005...Dancing with big brother...
December 2006... Still love big brother...(Who was brushing her hair, by the way!)
and here she is... the little girl who somehow takes my breath away. I love her so much!
(To be honest, this face she is making is really, "Mommy, can we go inside now?" Yes, the temperature was somwhere in the 30's, I believe. I know, Bad Mommy!)
Sammie: "Yeah! I want to wear my wedding dress!"
Yes, she remembers the dress. She wanted to put the little black shoes on too, and that resulted in a tantrum after what resembled a scene from Cinderella. She wears a size ten now, and these were size six!! It was hilarious!
So she puts on this dress... WHERE DID THE TIME GO???? I know, I say that a lot, but man, these kids are growing so fast.
THE RED DRESS: THEN AND NOW...
January 2005...
December 2006...
January 2005...Dancing with big brother...
December 2006... Still love big brother...(Who was brushing her hair, by the way!)
and here she is... the little girl who somehow takes my breath away. I love her so much!
(To be honest, this face she is making is really, "Mommy, can we go inside now?" Yes, the temperature was somwhere in the 30's, I believe. I know, Bad Mommy!)
The best deponent in the world...
Is this guy....
Isn't he great? He just sits there with his orange eyes bugged out and his naked butt hanging out not saying a word.
Q: Do you remember what happened on January 3, 2001?
A: ...
Plaintiff Attorney: No further questions!
No seriously though... I took a deposition this week in a conference room at a hospital, and had to sit next to this crazy training doll the whole time! At least his cell phone didn't go off in the middle of it! What cracked me up most was that he was wearing shades...and his hospital gown wasn't closed all the way in the back...I guess even dummies don't get to have any dignity in those gowns!
Isn't he great? He just sits there with his orange eyes bugged out and his naked butt hanging out not saying a word.
Q: Do you remember what happened on January 3, 2001?
A: ...
Plaintiff Attorney: No further questions!
No seriously though... I took a deposition this week in a conference room at a hospital, and had to sit next to this crazy training doll the whole time! At least his cell phone didn't go off in the middle of it! What cracked me up most was that he was wearing shades...and his hospital gown wasn't closed all the way in the back...I guess even dummies don't get to have any dignity in those gowns!
Sunday, December 03, 2006
New toy!
Hi there!
I upgraded my camera from a Nikon Coolpix E3200 to a Nikon Coolpix L5! I like the Nikon because of it's amazing macro capabilities for a user-friendly and affordable model. I can get down and get such great crisp detail in my bead photographs. Now with the upgrade though, I can also get fantastic zoom and more megapixels! The last one was 3 megapixels, and this one is 7.2.
Just to test out the automatic portrait feature, here is a pic of my Sambina. Gotta love that little face!
Have a good week!
I upgraded my camera from a Nikon Coolpix E3200 to a Nikon Coolpix L5! I like the Nikon because of it's amazing macro capabilities for a user-friendly and affordable model. I can get down and get such great crisp detail in my bead photographs. Now with the upgrade though, I can also get fantastic zoom and more megapixels! The last one was 3 megapixels, and this one is 7.2.
Just to test out the automatic portrait feature, here is a pic of my Sambina. Gotta love that little face!
Have a good week!
Monday, November 27, 2006
11/27 Random Acts of Cuteness: Sibling Rivalry Edition
Things I have overheard today coming from the other room...
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David: Your butt smells like a potato.
Sam: Mommy! David said my butt smells like tatoes!!!!!!!!!!!! Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!!!!!!!
15 minutes later:
David: (singing) "Oh, you got a potato butt! Potato butt! Potato butt!"
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David: (Sneeze)
Sam: Stop!!!!!!! I don't like your germs!
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Have a good week everybody!
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David: Your butt smells like a potato.
Sam: Mommy! David said my butt smells like tatoes!!!!!!!!!!!! Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!!!!!!!
15 minutes later:
David: (singing) "Oh, you got a potato butt! Potato butt! Potato butt!"
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David: (Sneeze)
Sam: Stop!!!!!!! I don't like your germs!
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Have a good week everybody!
Saturday, November 25, 2006
Gobble gobble...and let the season begin!
Wow, Thanksgiving came and went in a blink! How does this keep happening?
The festivities got started on Tuesday when David had his special Thanksgiving Feast at school. I went to help out, which made it possible for me to also see their cute little performance. He has such adorable little classmates. They are all so sweet and happy. I think their teacher is to thank for that though. She is really kind and gentle with a great sense of humor. When they do something well, she says, "Kiss your brain!" She's just really a warm person, and David loves her! I am so happy that David's first year of school has been so positive. I have been getting great feedback on his performance both academically and socially, and it warmed my heart on Tuesday when I introduced myself to another mom and she said, "Oh, David! My son talks about him all the time!" (I assume she meant in a good way! LOL!) Seriously though, David is great at making friends, and I am just so happy that he is so happy.
Here is a picture of him up on stage with the other chiefs and pilgrims.
and here is the little cutie that David has a major crush on! He is such a little romancer! She looks more like she should be a California Girl....maybe that's why he likes her so much! He comes home and has something to say about her every day. He even made her a little heart ring out of Floam!
Thursday we had a nice dinner at Aunt Lynn's and just hung out...
Friday we went shopping.
Let the season begin now! Here they are with Santa Claus already!!!
Yep...December is breathing down our necks already! When we drove up after shopping, David squealed with delight. While we were gone, Daddy was busy, and we returned to the wonderful surprise of our house lit up with color. That made me so happy because I just can't describe how excited David and Sam were to see the sparkling lights of our house!
Have a good weekend!
The festivities got started on Tuesday when David had his special Thanksgiving Feast at school. I went to help out, which made it possible for me to also see their cute little performance. He has such adorable little classmates. They are all so sweet and happy. I think their teacher is to thank for that though. She is really kind and gentle with a great sense of humor. When they do something well, she says, "Kiss your brain!" She's just really a warm person, and David loves her! I am so happy that David's first year of school has been so positive. I have been getting great feedback on his performance both academically and socially, and it warmed my heart on Tuesday when I introduced myself to another mom and she said, "Oh, David! My son talks about him all the time!" (I assume she meant in a good way! LOL!) Seriously though, David is great at making friends, and I am just so happy that he is so happy.
Here is a picture of him up on stage with the other chiefs and pilgrims.
and here is the little cutie that David has a major crush on! He is such a little romancer! She looks more like she should be a California Girl....maybe that's why he likes her so much! He comes home and has something to say about her every day. He even made her a little heart ring out of Floam!
Thursday we had a nice dinner at Aunt Lynn's and just hung out...
Friday we went shopping.
Let the season begin now! Here they are with Santa Claus already!!!
Yep...December is breathing down our necks already! When we drove up after shopping, David squealed with delight. While we were gone, Daddy was busy, and we returned to the wonderful surprise of our house lit up with color. That made me so happy because I just can't describe how excited David and Sam were to see the sparkling lights of our house!
Have a good weekend!
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
This is for...
You....and you know I'm right! Why? Because there is a little white and nerdy person inside of us all, right? I can think of at least one thing that applies to each of you! ha ha ha (And me too, of course! Do I like Kirk, or do I like Picard? And how many times did we go to Renn Faire?
Monday, November 20, 2006
Saturday, November 18, 2006
11/17 Random Acts of Cuteness
Riding in the car:
Samantha: "Mommy! I want to hear Love Shark!"
(You know, that popular song by the B- 52's, "Love Shark, Baby!"
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At BJ's (like Costco) membership service desk the kids were waiting there when along came this cute little boy that looked like David when he was little. I also thought he looked like my in-laws's neighbor Quentin. He was hugging Samantha when I heard his dad say, "Say hello to David and Samantha!" It was Quentin!!! He is the spitting image of David! Too funny! Later as we walked away Samantha said,
"I like Quentin, but he is having a bad hair day! His hair is not good today!"
--------------
David spent some birthday cash at Target and we promised Samantha something too. For 9.99 she got this little baby doll with all kinds of accessories. Later at home, she is talking about how she is going to be a good mommy. Its little hat came off and Samantha asked for help. I said, "If you are going to be the baby's mommy, you will have to take care of this yourself." She said, "Yeah, but I'm just a little mommy!"
Samantha: "Mommy! I want to hear Love Shark!"
(You know, that popular song by the B- 52's, "Love Shark, Baby!"
-------------
At BJ's (like Costco) membership service desk the kids were waiting there when along came this cute little boy that looked like David when he was little. I also thought he looked like my in-laws's neighbor Quentin. He was hugging Samantha when I heard his dad say, "Say hello to David and Samantha!" It was Quentin!!! He is the spitting image of David! Too funny! Later as we walked away Samantha said,
"I like Quentin, but he is having a bad hair day! His hair is not good today!"
--------------
David spent some birthday cash at Target and we promised Samantha something too. For 9.99 she got this little baby doll with all kinds of accessories. Later at home, she is talking about how she is going to be a good mommy. Its little hat came off and Samantha asked for help. I said, "If you are going to be the baby's mommy, you will have to take care of this yourself." She said, "Yeah, but I'm just a little mommy!"
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Hartelijk Gefeliciteerd!!!!!!
I just wanted to wish all the best to a distant family that I am so fond of...
Congratulations Martine and Ruben on your new little son!! Welcome Midas!!!!
(I love this photo, so I hope they don't mind that I linked to it!)
Congratulations Martine and Ruben on your new little son!! Welcome Midas!!!!
(I love this photo, so I hope they don't mind that I linked to it!)
Monday, November 13, 2006
The Big Birthday Weekend
David turned 6 on Friday the 10th, and the whole weekend was non-stop party! That's the way to do it, right?
Friday he got this hat from his teacher and he wore it all day!
After school he went over to my in-laws to open presents and have cake.
Later that evening we went to see Princess Wishes (Or something like that. It happened to be what was in town this time, and we thought Samantha would enjoy it.) Though she did enjoy it, David had his eyes glued to it the whole time! So it wasn't lost on him. He had fun too!
We had dinner at Red Robin where David got a yummy birthday sundae. Then we went back to my in-laws' house for more candles, cake and visiting.
Samantha was in charge of putting the candles on, but yes, David is only six.
Saturday was more playing and a couple more surprises for David...leading up to
Sunday and his party!!!
This was the invitation that we sent out...
It was a rainy day, but all of the invited guest arrived with smiles on. We started out at the movie theater enjoying "Flushed Away"! It was hilarious and cute! A wonderful way to spend a rainy day -- laughing and eating popcorn with friends. We then hopped across the street to a local pizza buffet where we had pizza, cake, and presents.
David has such sweet little friends...all very nice and cute. We had a great time!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DAVID!!!!!
Friday he got this hat from his teacher and he wore it all day!
After school he went over to my in-laws to open presents and have cake.
Later that evening we went to see Princess Wishes (Or something like that. It happened to be what was in town this time, and we thought Samantha would enjoy it.) Though she did enjoy it, David had his eyes glued to it the whole time! So it wasn't lost on him. He had fun too!
We had dinner at Red Robin where David got a yummy birthday sundae. Then we went back to my in-laws' house for more candles, cake and visiting.
Samantha was in charge of putting the candles on, but yes, David is only six.
Saturday was more playing and a couple more surprises for David...leading up to
Sunday and his party!!!
This was the invitation that we sent out...
It was a rainy day, but all of the invited guest arrived with smiles on. We started out at the movie theater enjoying "Flushed Away"! It was hilarious and cute! A wonderful way to spend a rainy day -- laughing and eating popcorn with friends. We then hopped across the street to a local pizza buffet where we had pizza, cake, and presents.
David has such sweet little friends...all very nice and cute. We had a great time!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DAVID!!!!!
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Halloween Pics!
Well, it took me a little time, but here they are!
Hope everybody had a great Halloween!!!
"Vrooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooom!!!"
"Quack Quack Waddle Waddle all day long! Quack Quack Waddle Waddle, sing the duck song!"
This year's pumpkin crew
Bwwwwaaaahhahahahahahahahahahahaaaaaa
Hope everybody had a great Halloween!!!
"Vrooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooom!!!"
"Quack Quack Waddle Waddle all day long! Quack Quack Waddle Waddle, sing the duck song!"
This year's pumpkin crew
Bwwwwaaaahhahahahahahahahahahahaaaaaa
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
HAPPY HALLOWEEN!
We are excited about tonight! Lots of pumpkins to carve and candy to beg for!
Remember any of these Halloween pics?
Remember any of these Halloween pics?
Sunday, October 29, 2006
Blustery days...
Brrrrrrr! The wind has been blowing -- leaves are swirling. In fact, it was so windy that a section of our new fence blew out, and I had to go outside several times to put it back together. Keith is out there now with the drill trying to keep the problematic section in place. So how windy is it? I looked up at the sky at one point and swore I saw the Wicked Witch on her broom cackling, "And your little dog, too!"
But yet I made the kids go up to Rocky Ridge yesterday to take some photos. It was gorgeous there! (A little scary though because apparently some hunting is allowed there too.) The kids smiled pretty, and I let them play for a while...it wasn't long though before they had enough of the cold and we piled back into the van, just three frozen bean burritos!
My girlie on the slide! Found another awesome Thumper shirt! It says, "Hip Hop, and ya don't stop!" (Can't live without Thumper!!)
and me and my Super David...
Halloween is coming!!!!! Be on the lookout for the usual pumpkin pictures and munchkins in costumes. I'll post them as soon as I can! Happy Halloween!
But yet I made the kids go up to Rocky Ridge yesterday to take some photos. It was gorgeous there! (A little scary though because apparently some hunting is allowed there too.) The kids smiled pretty, and I let them play for a while...it wasn't long though before they had enough of the cold and we piled back into the van, just three frozen bean burritos!
My girlie on the slide! Found another awesome Thumper shirt! It says, "Hip Hop, and ya don't stop!" (Can't live without Thumper!!)
and me and my Super David...
Halloween is coming!!!!! Be on the lookout for the usual pumpkin pictures and munchkins in costumes. I'll post them as soon as I can! Happy Halloween!
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
10-24 Random Acts of Cuteness
Just one today...
Samantha, confused about her holidays, is singing:
"Jingle Bells, smell my feet! Jingle! Jingle! Smell my feet! Jingle Bells!"
Samantha, confused about her holidays, is singing:
"Jingle Bells, smell my feet! Jingle! Jingle! Smell my feet! Jingle Bells!"
Saturday, October 21, 2006
Let's try that again!
Well for some reason Rock You didn't like the slide show I tried to make last week to show what a nice day out we had. That's okay though because I sat down and created a REAL slide show with music and everything. Please scroll down to the original post to view it through You Tube. This meant I could use more pictures too!
Hope you like it, and I apologize to anyone who got locked up over
the last fiasco! GRRRR!!!!
Hope you like it, and I apologize to anyone who got locked up over
the last fiasco! GRRRR!!!!
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Autumn is here!
Sunday found us with friends to the west. We scooped up Jennifer, Paden, and her friend Emily and headed out to the Land of Little Horses in Gettysburg. We weren't going there for the little horses this time, but for their pumpkin patch. It wasn't quite what I was expecting, but they did have beautiful bright orange pumpkins! From there we headed to the north a little for the Apple Harvest Festival in Arendtsville. That's always a fun time of crafts and apple food twists. We like the apple pizza the best. They also have apple sausage, apple pancakes, tons of apple cider of course, and naturally caramel apples. Paden lost his very first tooth while eating an apple on a stick...unfortunately we think he spit it out with the peel. We tried to search for it, but couldn't find it. The day finished up in Hanover eating pizza and playing games. It was a nice fall day, and we really enjoyed the "foliage"! (Inside joke!)
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
ROFLMAO!
Sorry... I usually just chuckle to myself after browsing Stuff on My Cat, but this one had me cracking up! Just had to share it.
Monday, October 09, 2006
Autumn perspective...
It's not too apparent down here in York, but up in Elysburg -- the hills around Knoebels -- Autumn is radiating and dancing in the sunlight...
As the sun was setting, you couldn't help but look up and be taken by the dappled light as it danced through the golden yellow and fire red leaves. It gave me such a warm, peaceful feeling as the day was coming to an end.
This morning I drove far into territory I had never been. Had the events of last week and the Amish tragedy not occurred, today's drive would not have been that remarkable. Somehow though the cosmos put a deposition in my lap that took me to Oxford, PA today. As I printed out my driving directions, I felt a strange tingle. They had me driving right through Bart and Nickel Mines...the little town where the shooting occurred. I passed by many buggies and Amish working with their horses, walking in their fields, even some older children were playing a game that kind of looked like tag. Many sign boards of businesses and churches spelled out sweet messages to the community such as, "Thank you for praying for our neighbors," and the like. It was a little surreal. What impacted me the most was this... all the wash lines were full of freshly laundered Amish clothes...and as I would gaze over at the farms, somehow seeing the little Amish girl dresses flapping in the breeze struck me. They were wonderful little pink, magenta, green, and blue little dress in between black pants, black socks, black aprons... with each house I passed I wondered to myself, "Does this house have one less girl to wash for, or is this house glad that it still has many little dresses flapping on the clothesline?" Then near the end of this town I passed a little house whose laundry was closer to the side of the road... but there were no colorful little dresses hanging... just adult-sized jet black women's dresses next to black pants and black socks. To me it just kind of pinched me inside. Life carries on there... a strength I doubt I would ever have if I were in their shoes. My world would stop turning if I ever had less little items of clothing to wash.
As the sun was setting, you couldn't help but look up and be taken by the dappled light as it danced through the golden yellow and fire red leaves. It gave me such a warm, peaceful feeling as the day was coming to an end.
This morning I drove far into territory I had never been. Had the events of last week and the Amish tragedy not occurred, today's drive would not have been that remarkable. Somehow though the cosmos put a deposition in my lap that took me to Oxford, PA today. As I printed out my driving directions, I felt a strange tingle. They had me driving right through Bart and Nickel Mines...the little town where the shooting occurred. I passed by many buggies and Amish working with their horses, walking in their fields, even some older children were playing a game that kind of looked like tag. Many sign boards of businesses and churches spelled out sweet messages to the community such as, "Thank you for praying for our neighbors," and the like. It was a little surreal. What impacted me the most was this... all the wash lines were full of freshly laundered Amish clothes...and as I would gaze over at the farms, somehow seeing the little Amish girl dresses flapping in the breeze struck me. They were wonderful little pink, magenta, green, and blue little dress in between black pants, black socks, black aprons... with each house I passed I wondered to myself, "Does this house have one less girl to wash for, or is this house glad that it still has many little dresses flapping on the clothesline?" Then near the end of this town I passed a little house whose laundry was closer to the side of the road... but there were no colorful little dresses hanging... just adult-sized jet black women's dresses next to black pants and black socks. To me it just kind of pinched me inside. Life carries on there... a strength I doubt I would ever have if I were in their shoes. My world would stop turning if I ever had less little items of clothing to wash.
Discover your family.
My cousin Sara has been living in Virginia Beach this past year, a sudden move all the way from Monterey, California. The weather was nice and schedules finally aligned so that we could visit with her! She drove five long hours to come up and say hello...and what did we do? We drug her another two hours north to go to Knoebels! Poor thing! We did have a lovely time though, and the kids really love her. (Wouldn't stay still for this picture though!!!ARRGH!)
Sunday, October 08, 2006
Not a dumb question at all...
Satrina posed a good question... Why do people with heart defects need to take antibiotic pre-medication before visiting the dentist? The reason is bacterial endocarditis. I took this quote from The American Heart Association's website that could put it more eloquently than I can:
"Bacterial endocarditis is an infection of the heart's inner lining (endocardium) or the heart valves. This can damage or even destroy your heart valves.
How does it occur?
Bacterial endocarditis occurs when bacteria in the bloodstream (bacteremia) lodge on abnormal heart valves or other damaged heart tissue. Certain bacteria normally live on parts of your body, such as the mouth and upper respiratory system, the intestinal and urinary tracts, and the skin. Some surgical and dental procedures cause a brief bacteremia. Bacteremia is common after many invasive procedures, but only certain bacteria commonly cause endocarditis.
Who is at risk?
Endocarditis rarely occurs in people with normal hearts. However, if you have certain preexisting heart conditions, you're at risk when a bacteremia occurs. Some of these conditions include having...
an artificial (prosthetic) heart valve
a history of previous endocarditis
heart valves damaged (scarred) by conditions such as rheumatic fever
congenital heart or heart valve defects
hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (hi"per-TRO'fik kar"de-o-mi-OP'ah-the)
Some congenital heart defects, including a ventricular septal defect, an atrial septal defect, or a patent ductus arteriosus, can be successfully repaired surgically. After this you'll no longer be at increased risk for endocarditis. "
Just for the record, David had an atrial septal defect, which was successfully repaired, thus he no longer needs meds for the dentist. Samantha has a ventricular septal defect..well, actully she has two holes there, but not too large...where David had one big one that was making his right ventricle dangerously enlarged.
Thanks for asking! It was not a dumb question at all!
"Bacterial endocarditis is an infection of the heart's inner lining (endocardium) or the heart valves. This can damage or even destroy your heart valves.
How does it occur?
Bacterial endocarditis occurs when bacteria in the bloodstream (bacteremia) lodge on abnormal heart valves or other damaged heart tissue. Certain bacteria normally live on parts of your body, such as the mouth and upper respiratory system, the intestinal and urinary tracts, and the skin. Some surgical and dental procedures cause a brief bacteremia. Bacteremia is common after many invasive procedures, but only certain bacteria commonly cause endocarditis.
Who is at risk?
Endocarditis rarely occurs in people with normal hearts. However, if you have certain preexisting heart conditions, you're at risk when a bacteremia occurs. Some of these conditions include having...
an artificial (prosthetic) heart valve
a history of previous endocarditis
heart valves damaged (scarred) by conditions such as rheumatic fever
congenital heart or heart valve defects
hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (hi"per-TRO'fik kar"de-o-mi-OP'ah-the)
Some congenital heart defects, including a ventricular septal defect, an atrial septal defect, or a patent ductus arteriosus, can be successfully repaired surgically. After this you'll no longer be at increased risk for endocarditis. "
Just for the record, David had an atrial septal defect, which was successfully repaired, thus he no longer needs meds for the dentist. Samantha has a ventricular septal defect..well, actully she has two holes there, but not too large...where David had one big one that was making his right ventricle dangerously enlarged.
Thanks for asking! It was not a dumb question at all!
Saturday, October 07, 2006
Samantha's Boo-boo heart
Samantha visited her cardiologist this week! She was so good at remaining nice and still for her echo and her EKG. She is doing very well. One of the two holes is getting smaller! The other hole does not seem to be causing any issues, so she will remain on conservative watch. Her only restriction is pre-medication before visiting the dentist! This is great! She doesn't even need to go back for two years!
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