tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-122030452011-04-21T15:54:59.930-05:00Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.comBlogger2881100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-57780403655106168742008-03-09T19:27:00.004-05:002008-03-09T19:39:11.994-05:00On Saturday the 8th, the kids set off for a new adventure... their very first ice skating lessons!<br /><br />This was a whole new challenge of balance and determination. There was a whole lot of falling down going on though! Samantha got a little fed up about 20 minutes into it, but I bribed her with the promise of a snack from the snack bar after her lesson if she would just give it one more try. So she scooted back out onto the ice for just a little bit longer.<br /><br />David, on the other hand, was very eager to make some progress. That's the wonderful thing about David, he always puts all his effort into things, and he gets very excited when he sees that he has made progress or accomplished a new skill.<br /><br />What's funny is that Samantha was the one who wanted to skate, but I signed David up too, even though he initially was not interested, just because I didn't think he would want to sit there on the bleachers with me and just watch. So now he is the one most looking forward to his next lesson.<br /><br />Here are some pictures I took. I wish they were a little clearer, but parents are asked to stay back away from the rink, so this was the best my zoom and no flash could bring me.<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/firstskate4.jpg" /><br /><br />And he's down!!! While she is clinging for life to a staff member!<br /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/firstskate1.jpg" /><br /><br />She's up!!<br /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/firstskate3.jpg" /><br /><br />He's up now too!!!<br /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/firstskate2.jpg" /><br /><br />Getting better!!<br /><br />The best part of all... all the laughs we got to share together at the snack bar afterwards...and all the laughs I got to have to myself the rest of the day when all I heard was, 'Ow, my butt! Ow, my butt," from the both of them when they tried to bend over or go up stairs. <br /><br />We'll be back out there again on Saturday!!!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-5778040365510616874?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-43604045285967556462008-03-05T23:05:00.002-05:002008-03-05T23:10:29.978-05:00Presenting the latest addition to my collection of geeky children....<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/braces.jpg" /><br />Yep, David got braces on Tuesday. He is obsessing over what he was told he can and cannot eat, but otherwise, he is adjusting well.<br /><br />Here's my little geek squad! <br />She's got my bad eyes, and he's got my bad teeth! Poor things!<br /><br />I like their little imperfections though...and they are still cute to me, I think!<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/cheesy.jpg" /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-4360404528596755646?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-6391428201271469032008-01-26T06:14:00.000-05:002008-01-26T06:31:52.572-05:00So I get this call from the school nurse on the 14th telling me that Sammie failed her vision test twice! So off we go to her first optometrist visit.<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/firsteyexam.jpg"/><br /><br><br />The poor thing has 20/80 vision in both eyes due to a high astigmatism. The doctor took my glasses to read the prescription and returned with, "Yep! She has it as bad as you do!" I had no idea it was hereditary. So Sammie has been wandering around this earth for five years seeing nothing but fuzzy blobs unless the object is about a foot away from her face! We had no clue, but now so many things about her are making sense to us and her teacher.<br /><br />Seeing well is too new and too much for her little eyes to handle yet, so she is only in half the prescription she needs...bringing her vision to 20/40 for now. As she gets adjusted to seeing better, we will take her back to the eye doctor in six months to test again and see if her eyes can handle the full prescription to bring her to 20/20. I think even this half prescription is making so much of an improvement for her already! I hope it will help her conquer her shyness too. At home she is a firecracker, but at school and around other kids, she is so timid and quiet. Maybe now that she can see who she is talking to better, she might not be as withdrawn. Let's hope!<br /><br />Here she is with her first pair of glasses:<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/newglasses.jpg"/><br /><br><br />And here are a couple of funny things since she's been wearing them...<br /><br />1. At the car wash she yells out, "Stop! That sign says stop!" Wow! She could actually make out a sign from her seat in the van and read it!<br /><br />2. Later on the way to Wal-Mart she starts whimpering. <br />"What's wrong, Sam?" <br />"Scary monster outside my window!!!" <br />I look to my left and there is a U-Haul truck parked in a parking lot with a huge, very detailed butterfly on the side of it. She had no idea a butterfly really looked like that! <br />I said, "That's just a butterfly!" <br />She said, "No, it's not!! It's scary!"<br /><br />So it will be interesting to see how the world opens up for Samantha now. I know she will have an easier time in school too. It's a big adjustment for her, but she seems to be taking it well so far, and she is excited about the things she can see now!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-639142820127146903?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-66593093815239428402008-01-22T10:30:00.000-05:002008-01-22T10:41:34.592-05:00<img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/me33.jpg" /><br /><br />Today I am 33 years old now. It's a day for me to look back on how my 33rd year went. Well, what I'm understanding now is that it wasn't the happiest year, but that was my own doing. <br /><br />My overwhelming grief for my grandmother's passing was the heaviest on my mind, and I carried those feelings through the whole year. Even when I engaged in something that should be joyful, I found myself thinking, "But I can't really enjoy this because my grandma is not here, and I can't pick up the phone and hear her smiling as I tell her about this." I let that sadness be the background music of my year, and I let myself get sadder and feel more pain... which magnified the pain I was having in my leg...which led to the surgery... rock bottom. Yes, in my 33rd year, I hit rock bottom. <br /><br />I'm facing my 34th year now...and already my song is different; my attitude is different; my feelings are different. I have let her go now, and I'm left only with my love for her, and my overwhelming sense of pride for having been loved by her too. I have been off to a good start at changing things around. This is going to be a good year. This is my renaissance year! This is the year I no longer hold myself back. <br /><br />Thanks for being here for another birthday! Your friendship means so much to me, and you know it is so true. I am so thankful that I have the gift of knowing you! Thank you!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-6659309381523942840?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-7505066597861843662008-01-05T10:38:00.001-05:002008-01-05T10:48:13.114-05:00One of my first "No Excuses" initiatives was to just get downstairs and light that torch! It felt so good to just melt that glass. I went down there with no preconceived ideas...just played with the colors and put the bead in the kiln when I thought it was the shape it wanted to be. I even made my first semi-successful hollow! I say semi-successful because the hollow part is rather small, and the bead is close to round...I didn't want to mess with it too much in fear of the hollow inside collapsing on me. In the picture below, it's the green bubble in the back. <br /><br />Another success was that I was able to get "raku" frit to flash that lovely purple that I could never get it to do on the Hot Head torch. It's the one right in the middle with the black base.<br /><br />I do need to spend more time on the new torch to get a better feel for the heat, get my control of it back -- some things were melting TOO fast! ha ha ha One disappointment, the pretty clear and wispy pink bead on the left just under the green bead has a stress crack along the bead hole...booooooooooo!<br /><br />Well, here's a picture! I plan to schedule a bead making day for at least twice a month. I'm so excited and inspired again!<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/first08beads.jpg" /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-750506659786184366?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-88198477451657769092008-01-01T10:24:00.000-05:002008-01-01T10:31:11.479-05:00Happy New Year, dear friends!!!<br /><br />I have seen this pattern so many times, and this year I plan to defeat it. Each day I say, "Wow, I can't believe it's already "x" o'clock." Each week I say, "I can't believe it's already ____day." Each month I say, "I can't believe it's already ____." And you guessed it...each year I say, "I can't believe it's 200_! Where did the year go?" It made me realize that I either wasn't paying attention, or I wasn't doing anything that I felt left me with anything to show for it.<br /><br />So my motto for 2008 is "No Excuses!" I'm not going to let time just pass me by. I'm going to just do what needs to be done. I'm not going to make a list either of what needs to be done because there is so much, and it changes each day. I will just think it and do it. <br /><br />So HAPPY 2008!!! I wish everybody lots of love and success this year!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-8819847745165776909?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-70823650979701304202007-12-24T11:54:00.000-05:002007-12-24T12:03:41.883-05:00The kids have a musical message for you...<br /><br /><object width="350" height="355"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/vk5FCWjMhX4&rel=1"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/vk5FCWjMhX4&rel=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="350" height="355"></embed></object><br /><br />We hope you all have a wonderful holiday full of warmth, love, and smiles!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-7082365097970130420?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-59847242715795853472007-12-10T14:38:00.000-05:002007-12-10T14:39:46.167-05:00I know I have been MIA for a while... but here I am with snow pictures! Happy winter!<br /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/winter07.gif" /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-5984724271579585347?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-45895117842062184352007-10-02T14:28:00.000-05:002007-10-02T14:31:58.869-05:00Well, it's that time again...time to smile pretty for picture day!<br /><br />Here is what the kids wore today... and now the long wait until the pictures actually come back!<br /><br />Happy Tuesday!<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/picday07.jpg" /><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/picday07a.jpg" /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-4589511784206218435?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-39335066597045427872007-09-29T13:16:00.000-05:002007-09-29T13:22:43.100-05:00Hi out there! Just wanted to post a couple pictures, though lately I have taken so many more, but I'm just not feeling well, which adds to my disorganization...<br /><br />But here is my little soccer hooligan! He got to be goalie this morning in the first quarter!<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/goalie.jpg" /><br /><br />He was so excited... this "action" picture I snapped of him...he was not trying to keep a ball out, he was just jumping up and down with excitement for being chosen as goalie this quarter! ha ha ha<br /><br />We went to the York Fair a couple of weekends ago. They added these new things in kiddie land...the big picture boards you stick your face in depicting different clown scenes...<br /><br />Kissy Clown:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/kissyclown.jpg" /><br /><br />and then this one is kind of creepy...the sign reads, "Stay with your parents"... or what, a creepy clown will chop off your head and put it on a plate??? Real child friendly there!!! (I hate clowns!!)<br /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/headclown.jpg" /><br /><br />Hope all is well with you! Hugs from us here in Crazy Town!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-3933506659704542787?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-74719651593985868242007-09-08T10:37:00.000-05:002007-09-08T10:53:38.683-05:00(Make sure you read that title with a heavy Mexican accent!)<br /><br />Well, it's happened ....I'm a officially a soccer mom now... woo hoo. ha ha ha<br />It couldn't be helped... and it looks like the boy likes playing this game, so I'll just accept my fate! ha ha ha<br /><br />Here is my little soccer dude! They all looked so cute out there with their oversized shirts and little legs going every which way! It was a fun morning at the park.<br /><br />Have a great weekend!<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/dbkick.jpg" /><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/dbkick2.jpg" /><br /><br /><br /><br />Check out those shiny blue soccer shoes too! ha ha<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-7471965159398586824?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-74961015009176468552007-09-06T22:36:00.000-05:002007-09-06T23:21:22.360-05:00Errr....hard week.<br /><br />I'm trying to stretch my skills on the job by taking on some challenges I would have been scared to before.... but today I panicked that I bit off more than I can chew. I took a job with daily copy in Philadelphia (meaning I have to turn around the transcript within 24 hours) thinking it would be but only a two-hour or so job. It turned into FIVE! And now I'm not going to bed... trying to complete it.... almost 180 pages of editing to get in by noon tomorrow. The part that is frustrating me is my back. It's holding me down a little. It's making it difficult...and I'm scared... scared of needing to just get the stupid surgery. But I'll have to stress over that another day...<br /><br />But I need to push my abilities and my skill. I need to grow in my career. Yesterday I realized...yes, I am a professional now.... I never felt I deserved that before... I never felt like I made it...but more and more I am surprising myself and realizing that this is it....this is what I've been working to achieve all these years. I am there. I have done it! And though this week has come with some sacrifices -- to my sleep...to my kids... to my back... and I got very frustrated yesterday with it too, it's worth it, and I'm glad this is my career... my dream.<br /><br />So back to work.... no sleep for me.... but I had to post this picture from ICanHasCheezburger.com because it made me laugh so hard... funny cat picture therapy! You just can't put a price on that. Thanks to Satrina for sharing the link to that site with me!!! I think of you when I visit it, and it always makes me smile! And I have to thank Yoko for letting me talk and vent with you this week.... having you to talk to is a treasure. To all of you, my good friends who come by and visit here... thank you for making my life extra sweet! Love ya!<br /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/plugkitty.jpg" /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-7496101500917646855?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-9981557921387831702007-09-04T10:20:00.000-05:002007-09-04T10:23:24.764-05:00Hope you had a wonderful Labor Day weekend!<br /><br />The holiday found us camping at Knoebels from Friday night until Monday morning. The weather was perfect...and it was a nice conclusion to our summer fun. So sad to see it go already!<br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/ldk01.jpg" /><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/ldk02.jpg" /><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/ldk03.jpg" /><br /><br />Lazy days are over... and there is so much to look forward to this fall.<br />Happy September!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-998155792138783170?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-52265901390699088072007-09-04T10:16:00.000-05:002007-09-04T10:20:46.647-05:00Well, I missed her first day of school because I had to be in Philadelphia very early in the morning. My in-laws tried to get a couple pictures but they captured part of a backpack in one picture and a pair of eyes in another picture. So on Friday we tried again....<br /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/sambus2.jpg" /><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/sambus1.jpg" /><br /><br />Then there was the drama of Little Orphan Sammie in the afternoon...<br /><br />her bus came early and nobody was there for her, so she was taken back to the office. When I picked her up, one pigtail had fallen out, her little dress was dirty, and she sobbed, "I don't like you leaving me alone on the bus!!!" Poor little thing! I promised we would not be late for the bus next time. <br /><br />Today promises to be a better day for her on her third day of school!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-5226590139069908807?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-27773193004304439972007-08-29T07:31:00.000-05:002007-08-29T07:34:54.441-05:00<span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);font-size:130%;" >Waiting for the bus to take him to his first day in First Grade!</span><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/grade1.jpg" /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);font-size:130%;" >Say goodbye to little sister! Her big day is tomorrow!!!</span><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/grade1b.jpg" /><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);font-size:130%;" >Off you go! Have a great first day! I know it's going to be a fantastic year full of different ways that you will amaze me! </span><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/grade1a.jpg" /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-2777319300430443997?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-73777206683579813222007-08-28T10:18:00.000-05:002007-08-28T10:36:12.333-05:00<span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);font-family:georgia;" >Here SHE comes!!! </span></span><br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/samk1.jpg" /><br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/samk2.jpg" /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Samzilla is coming!!! Run!!!!<br /><span style="font-size:78%;"><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size:78%;" >Today was orientation for Samantha. Thursday is the big day! She is really excited and likes all of the wonderful things to see in her classroom. We rode on the bus and heard about the bus rules. I felt those little pesky tears well up in my eyes a few times, but this time is a little easier than letting David go. What an exciting year this will be for us academically. My little girl... how quickly you are growing up!</span><br /></span></span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-7377720668357981322?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-18338112605781855212007-08-26T06:54:00.000-05:002007-08-26T07:06:29.287-05:00Friday found us bouncing along up to Knoebels for a day of fun...this time with a twist, our friend Paden was along with us for the day. We tried to arrange an outing for earlier in the week with his family, but funerals and weather made that impossible this week for them. Feeling bad that the kids would not get to enjoy the park with their friend, I asked his mom if it would be okay for him to be our third child for the day. So the five of us went on up and had a fantastic day!!<br /><br />Here are a few of my favorite pics from the day: (If you haven't seen Paden on here before, here's a tip, he is not the Mexican or the girl. ha ha ha ha)<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/ggck807d.jpg" /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/ggck807c.jpg" /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/ggck807a.jpg" /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/ggck807b.jpg" /><br />This last one I just like because I was snapping in a series while the kids were waiting for this ride to begin...it's one of those that takes a while because there are many kids to strap in safely...and looking at their faces I just wonder what they were thinking, but adore how close Samantha is cuddled up to David. <br /><br />and then the next picture immediately after that gives you some idea that whatever Samantha was thinking...it was probably devious! ha ha ha ha ha<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/ggck807e.jpg" /><br /><br />Have a great week everybody!!!!!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-1833811260578185521?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-85446332866496652952007-08-21T17:25:00.000-05:002007-08-21T17:31:38.145-05:00It's rainy out...and that makes me feel all warm and cozy inside. The cats are curled up on the bed...the kids are trying to busy themselves...there are droplets on my red roses...and I finished Sam's poncho! <br /><br />I'm feeling better and had a full day of work yesterday. Slowly but surely!<br /><br />Hope all is well with you out there! Here are some pictures!<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/rainrose.jpg" /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/samponcho1.jpg" /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/samponcho2.jpg" /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/samponchoflower.jpg" /><br /><br />The poncho was a snap...it's just two rectangles assembled in a certain way... and since it is Sammie-sized, it was a quick knit! I have already started a second one for her in pink and purple. If I feel brave, I'll try the full size version for myself, which is where I got the pattern. After my hurting my brain with math, I got it down to Sam's size. We'll see how energetic I am! ha ha ha<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-8544633286649665295?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-59714539658976598392007-08-16T13:45:00.000-05:002007-08-16T13:48:13.667-05:00I'm feeling better! Today I have a second epidural. Hope it gives me even more improvement. I'm also working myself back into work slowly. Hopefully I'll be on a depo tomorrow. Monday wasn't too bad, but I've been taking it slow.<br /><br />I'm still slow on getting some pictures up, but here is a fun one we took at Knoebels on our last visit.... my fancy little Victorian sweeties.<br /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/victorianbrats.jpg"/><br /><br /><br />Hope all is with you out there!!!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-5971453965897659839?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-58246654141177314052007-08-11T14:47:00.000-05:002007-08-11T14:51:55.416-05:00I feared the dreaded epidural steroid injection....even as I was on my tummy with my underpants pulled half way down my big brown butt, I wasn't sure I was doing the right thing.... but let me tell you, I am so happy to now be back to 85 percent of normal again!<br /><br />I can stand! I can walk! I can sit! I can ride in a car! I am feeling better!<br /><br />Now, I still need a little help from some heavy meds, but not like I did earlier in the week. I am getting back in the saddle on Monday by venturing out on a deposition. I'm taking it easy, but I NEED to get back to work.<br /><br />Thanks to you sweet friends that popped in and saw my post and wished me some healing words. It means so much to me that you care about me, and I'm thankful for having you in my life. Love you guys!!!!<br /><br />Pictures from vacation while my mom was out to come soon because there are some funny ones. Thanks for visiting!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-5824665414117731405?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-71753330826116586112007-08-07T12:03:00.000-05:002007-08-07T12:10:02.110-05:00lots of great pictures from my mom's visit to share, BUT.....<br />on the day I took her back to the airport, I was making my way home when my whole body seized up with pain. I had to pull over at the rest stop and call for an ambulance to take me to the hospital. So since Tuesday the 31st, I've been in bed in excruciating pain. I'm waiting to get an epidural injection to see if that will calm the nerve down so I can use my left leg again.<br /><br />So sorry I haven't posted lately. Hope everyone is well out there!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-7175333082611658611?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-24105144445044088312007-07-08T11:15:00.000-05:002007-07-08T11:30:53.921-05:00<span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:180%;" >HAPPY 5th BIRTHDAY, SAMBINA!!!</span><br /><br />Then...<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/Sam5thbaby.jpg" /><br /><br />and now...<br /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/Sam5thnow.jpg" /><br /><br />I am thankful for the past five funny, scary, happy, silly, frustrating, and sweet years I have been given so far with my little Sammie! <span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0); font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;" >Happy Birthday, Samantha!!</span></span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-2410514444504408831?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-18896041359628757302007-07-05T15:51:00.000-05:002007-07-05T15:59:39.091-05:00The Tooth Fairy is going broke because this boy just keeps popping them out! Today we lost Number 5! At least David is growing the new ones in as quickly as he is losing the baby ones... as you can see, the first two he lost, the bottom front, have been replaced, and there are little bits showing of the next two new teeth. We're getting good at this process now!<br /><br />Poor Sammie though... she keeps hoping to have a loose tooth so the Tooth Fairy can leave her a surprise too. Her time will come though.<br /><br />My Toothless Wonder!!<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/tooth5.jpg" /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-1889604135962875730?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-41893477385278789402007-07-04T11:31:00.000-05:002007-07-04T11:36:48.062-05:00David and Samantha start swim lessons...<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/swim1.jpg" /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/swim2.jpg" /><br /><br />Happy 4th of July!!!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-4189347738527878940?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-40200718335589044482007-06-30T07:08:00.000-05:002007-06-30T07:19:13.430-05:00... that already a year has passed since I last saw my beautiful little grandma laughing and smiling... since I smelled her sweet little head and gave her a kiss on it and she replied, "I love you too." The last time I wrapped my arms around my warm little grandma was a year ago at her birthday party. I miss her every day. I miss her cute little voice and the way it lit up when she laughed. <br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/07gbday.jpg" /><br /><br />I picked a few little roses for her. She loved roses, and I think the only reason my roses are blooming and beautiful is because she is helping them a little -- and shaking her head at me because I am pathetic with that stuff, but I could almost hear her whisper when I'm outside that they are such pretty roses. So I found a few that the beetles weren't living in and eating...and put them in a little glass I had swiped from her collection years ago. She always drank out of these tiny little glasses. My little portion of her ashes are in a little tin, which rest inside a satin ribbon pouch that I knitted, and the glass butterfly sits atop of it.<br /><br />It's strange how you try to hold onto whatever you can..and hope that if you make a little shrine like this she might hear you crying and maybe you would feel her touch your head or something...but the only thing I feel is my heart breaking again that she is gone. <br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">HAPPY BIRTHDAY, LITTLE GRANDMA!!! </span></span>I miss you so damn much.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-4020071833558904448?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-32266746448598461862007-06-20T06:16:00.000-05:002007-06-20T06:45:57.247-05:00<span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Hi out there!</span></span><br /><br />Sunday the 17th found us celebrating Father's Day at Hershey Park this year with Jen, Scott, and Paden. The weather was beautiful!!<br /><br />They have a new water area in the middle of the park now.<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/FD07HP1.jpg" /><br />It looks like fun, but it is kind of overwhelming! This is just one section. I started out not getting wet, but trying to capture the others on camera... very difficult because it was hard to find the right places to stand and not get wet. I waited and waited for Sammie and Keith to come down one of the big slides, only to see them get to the top and be turned away... Sammie was too small. So I finally put the camera away and was going to join them, but heck if I could find them in that maze! I had more water fights in there with other people's children in my quest to find my group. When I finally got to the top, I looked out towards the entrance and saw them all walking out and looking around for me! So I climbed back down after all that! ha ha ha<br /><br />We got a little dried off and headed for the car for a picnic lunch... Not only was it Father's Day, but our 7th Anniversary. Here we are:<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/FD07HP6.jpg" /><br />Seven years...can you believe that? The last couple years have just flown by! (Don't pick on my hair -- It is after being soaked and I can't do a thing with it! But look at those teeth!!! (I still am so happy with my teeth! he he))<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/FD07HP7.jpg" /><br />I call this one, "Mommy, why do I have to stand with the giant poop?"<br /><br />Paden, David, and Samantha enjoy a fast ride...<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/FD07HP5.jpg" /><br /><br />Hear no evil, see no evil, speak no evil...<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/FD07HP4.jpg" /><br />The amazing part is that we got all three of them to cooperate at the same time! ha ha ha This was taken on the monorail around the park.<br /><br />Giant Animal Orgy...<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/FD07HP3.jpg" /><br /><br />Then we got the most laughs when we came across the Boogie Bodies stand! Ah, green-screen technology at it's finest! ha ha ha<br />Here Paden and Samantha get ready for their video shoot. David said it looked embarrassing and that he didn't want to be a "Bobble Head", so he didn't participate.<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/FD07HP2.jpg" /><br />Here is the result of our silliness...<br /><object height="350" width="400"> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/4Bt21lwNwHo"> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/4Bt21lwNwHo" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" height="350" width="400"></embed> </object><br />Oh, we're in trouble if Sammie grows up to have a body like that!!! ha ha ha<br /><br />We had a wonderful day... a great start to summer!<br /><br />Hope all is well with you! Miss ya!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-3226674644859846186?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-2797299174611705972007-06-06T07:02:00.000-05:002007-06-06T07:05:42.856-05:00<span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;font-size:180%;" ><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">The Kindergarten Graduate!!</span></span><br /><br />Here is David with his wonderful teacher! This year went by so fast!!!<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/davidgrad07.jpg" /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-279729917461170597?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-76674499743231369892007-06-02T08:20:00.000-05:002007-06-02T08:32:26.640-05:00The National Court Reporters Association posted a link to this video I'd like to share. It's a cute and funny look at depositions from a legal videographer's perspective. <br />Sometimes depositions are videotaped to be used later by the attorneys or to be played in court before a jury if the witness would not be able to appear personally, and that's where the legal video specialist comes in. <br /><br />My favorite element to this clip is how the poor guy is struggling with steps and hills and traffic to get his equipment to the job locations because, even though I have less equipment than that to haul around, one of the crazy things about this work is just trying to get to the job -- especially if we're dealing with older buildings that have many steps but no ramps or elevators! The worst I have had so far was an older building in Baltimore where they wanted me up in the third floor conference room... no elevator, just spiral staircase. Yes, that was fun. There have also been occasions where you could have watched me walk in circles down or up through the many levels of a parking garage because an elevator was out of service and I had to park on Level 8 or something. In one case I demanded the owner not charge me for parking since I was seriously inconvenienced...and one more floor they might have had to call the paramedics! LOL!<br /><br />So here it is... The Depo Trail!<br /><br /><object width="400" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/krX7mnEOiAU"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/krX7mnEOiAU" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="400" height="350"></embed></object><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-7667449974323136989?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-78949502037379461892007-05-27T12:36:00.000-05:002007-05-27T12:46:27.501-05:00Well, I've been away for a while, so I'm just combining it all here!<br /><br />Some big stuff and some little stuff happened recently, and so I'll just show you!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 153, 102);">I got a new smile! </span>What do you think? (And apparently a hanger sticking out of my head!) Thursday the 24th meant new teeth for me... surprisingly minimal pain, but lots of healing to do yet. It's a horror show under those new teeth, let me tell ya!! ha ha ha<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/newsmile.jpg" /><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204); font-weight: bold;">My lavender-colored roses are blooming...<br /><br /></span><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/moonrose07.jpg" /><br /><br />I went to Philadelphia for three days for work:<br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">LOVE</span> sign<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/phil1.jpg" /><br /><br />Waterfall at City Hall<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/phil2.jpg" /><br /><br />This sign on the Amtrak on my way home struck me as funny... in case you need to escape quickly and are in an unusual circumstance?? he he he<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/erexit.jpg" /><br /><br />Kids got some bubbles and we played in the yard:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/bubbles.gif" /><br /><br />David has just two more weeks of school, and then summer can officially begin!!! <br />What have you been up to? We miss you!<br />**Hugs from us all!**<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-7894950203737946189?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-30240627661820791192007-05-23T10:23:00.000-05:002007-05-23T10:25:19.288-05:00See, I could be living the good life...only if I had talent! ha ha ha ha<br /><br /><table height="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0"><tr><td height="1"><embed src="http://www.myheritagefiles.com/acollage/H/7_4/2rg505_49616331c545644xqzwp05" width="202" height="454" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent"></embed></td></tr><tr><td height="1" align="center"><a href="http://www.myheritage.com/collage" target="_blank" title="MyHeritage - share black and white photos with facial recognition technology"><u>http://www.myheritage.com</u></a></td></tr></table><br /><br />It's funny because I have always had a little crush on Brendan Fraser!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-3024062766182079119?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-58955996756136318322007-05-15T05:31:00.000-05:002007-05-15T05:49:33.993-05:00<span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Here's my "It's not that..." post. ha ha ha</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">It's not that....</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"> I haven't taken any photos lately</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"> I haven't been anywhere lately</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"> I haven't enjoyed life lately</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">it's just that...</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"> I have been working</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"> I have been working</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"> I have been working...</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 51, 102);">Last year, this was a challenging and difficult thing because I was stretching my skills and reaching beyond myself a little -- while poorly managing time. I would say, "I've been working" with a different tone and meaning... meaning more like, "I've been struggling to juggle." </span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 51, 102);">When 2007 began on a sour note, I felt I was doomed for the year, but I can say that career-wise, 2007 is kicking butt! I am so happy right now... it's like a breath of fresh air. I have turned work into a positive, and it is allowing other areas of my little world to be brighter... in spite of the fact that we still have some challenges we are dealing with right now. "I've been struggling to juggle" has turned into, "I'm finally starting to balance." I wouldn't say I've got it all figured out...just that it is 75 percent better! I'm excited now, not worried. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 51, 102);">So though I would have loved to share so much these past couple of weeks about the kids and stuff, I can just squeak two pictures in here for the moment. I will start posting more again soon...if anyone is still out there reading this! ha ha ha</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 51, 102);">Here are my two favorite pictures of the moment....</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 51, 102);">1. "The Mouse Takes the Cheese" (Knoebels)</span><br /><br /><img style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 51, 102);" src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/samknoebels.jpg" /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 51, 102);">2. "I'm Sensitive, and I'd Like to Stay that Way" (my little flower picker)</span><br /><img style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);" src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/flower507.jpg" /><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 0);">Oh, and a little Random Act of Cuteness...</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 0);">Samantha comes up with a scribble drawing of a flower. Her scribbles are actually starting to resemble things now! ha ha She hands me a marker and says, "Mommy! I want you to draw a Honey Bird." Oh, a honey bird, huh? What is a honey bird? She replies, "A honey bird has a long nose and it sucks out the honey!" I respond, "Oh, yes, a honey bird!" So I drew her a scribbly rendition of a humming bird and she was very pleased that I captured a perfect image of a honey bird sucking honey out of a flower. </span><br /><br />Happy Spring!!! Love you all!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-5895599675613631832?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-74415866131249177352007-04-13T06:54:00.000-05:002007-04-13T06:55:45.849-05:00Baby Bun:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/bunbun.jpg" /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-7441586613124917735?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-40117767959670650502007-04-10T20:52:00.000-05:002007-04-10T21:02:01.670-05:00I got home this evening, and Keith wanted to show me something in the yard.... except what he wanted to show me had an issue!<br /><br />He went over to the one window well and then told me to get the shovel. HUH??? <br />Me: Oh, no, don't tell me there is some dead animal in there!!??! (Three basement windows on the south side of the house were created, and the ground was dug out to allow that, so the wells are lined in concrete and about two-feet deep.)<br /><br />This tiny baby bunny was cuddled up in the corner down at the bottom of the window well. He fell in and couldn't get out! Poor little bun-bun!! He is no bigger than the palm of my hand! So I climbed in and tried to pick him up to return him to ground level, but he got a little scared and was hopping all over. After a few strokes on his little head, he trusted me enough to let me lift him out. At that moment, my in-laws showed up with the kids and the bun-bun ran into his little hole between two of the windows... it wasn't deep though...he was just kind of protected, but not under the ground. He sat there and let us pet him a little bit. <br /><br />Oh, so the funny comment for the RAC today is what my father-in-law said, and it relates to the Van Gogh post below. He said, "Tell that bunny to stay away from Samantha or he might lose his left ear!"<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-4011776795967065050?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-73550818911636068632007-04-09T14:37:00.000-05:002007-04-09T14:54:30.805-05:00(I've been keeping this one in my head and very late to post it, but I can't just let it slip away!)<br /><br />While hanging out in the kids' room, I overhear this role playing by Samantha and her "Holly" (Polly) Pocket dolls:<br /><br />(One is a boy and the other a girl.)<br /><br />Girl: (In a shrill pretend voice) "Marry me or die!"<br /><br />Me: What? Samantha! Do you think you have to die or get married?<br />Sammy: I want you to marry me, Mommy!<br />Me: I can't marry you! I'm your mommy!<br />David: I'll marry you, Mommy!<br />Sammy: Yeah, you can marry David!<br />Me: I can't marry David either! I'm already married to Daddy!<br />Sammy: Okay. Then you can die for Daddy.<br />Me: Oh, really? Let me think about that one!<br />David: Yeah! You grow up. You get married. You are happy. Then you die.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-7355081891163606863?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-62384543224530955542007-04-09T07:25:00.000-05:002007-04-09T07:36:17.899-05:00<span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:180%;" ><br /><br /><span style="font-size:100%;">He'd start with this little (f)earless army of bunnies!!!</span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/earlessarmy.jpg" /><br /><br /><br /><br />I kid you not... this is how it went down:<br /><br />While sitting down to Easter dinner at my in-laws' house, they told of how they presented these cute little bunnies to a sweet little girl to play with...and within minutes, strange bits of colored fuzzy things were scattered on the floor around these bunnies. When asked what happened to the ears on the bunnies, Samantha reports, "I don't know! They just fell off!!"<br /><br />What I don't seem to get is why she chose to only amputate the left ears!<br /><br />Have a wonderful start to spring, everybody! We miss you!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-6238454322453095554?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-6258382848234354892007-04-02T18:36:00.000-05:002007-04-02T18:52:38.504-05:00I'm sorry I don't have any pictures, mostly because I'm running off of very minimal sleep, but Samantha stepped onto the kindergarten campus today and began the registration process! I can't believe how time flies. (I know, I always say that!) It just seems to keep getting faster and faster though. Wasn't I just doing the registration process for David? Now the boy is reading and writing and telling me all about worldly things with such excitement. <br /><br />Samantha is nothing like David though! David has been the model student so far from start to finish. I don't know if it has to do with his age or his personality. Samantha though is like an electric tumbleweed! <br /><br />First I tried to get her ready for registration. She was on the floor in front of the TV in her underpants watching Noggin. She yells to me, "I don't want to go. Take Caesar!" Yeah, like I'm going to dress up the cat and pass her off for my daughter... although, Caesar probably wouldn't have shoved his paw up his nose and then stuck it in his mouth in front of the principal like a certain someone ended up doing! Arrrggh!!! She scored very low in her evaluation, so she might become an all-day kindergarten student, but that will probably be good for her. I expected this because she hasn't been as interested in the alphabet and numbers as her brother has always been. She marches to her own little punk-rock drummer, and you can't get into her stubborn little head when she is having one of those moments. Nonetheless, she is growing up too, and she is looking forward to school...if only they wouldn't start it so early though! ha ha ha <br /><br />Down the hallway from the library...I made my way to David's classroom to drop something off. He was so surprised to see me there! His teacher is the sweetest. There he was working hard on a drawing and story for the day. His little classmates are so cute. They all looked up and whispered about the unexpected visit. If only you could just bottle every moment like that!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-625838284823435489?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-88339027330030153472007-03-28T10:15:00.000-05:002007-03-28T10:19:31.048-05:00<img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/thirdtooth.jpg" /><br /><br />Well, they are just dropping right out these days! David lost his third tooth yesterday, the one right next to his two new ones at the bottom front. (See that little space there? ha ha) I guess it was feeling a little crowded by the big new adult teeth! Three more are loose too: The one on the opposite side of the two new teeth is loose, and the top two front teeth are a little loose! The tooth fairy is going to be broke at this rate! LOL!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-8833902733003015347?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-43418170437603994732007-03-24T08:06:00.000-05:002007-03-24T08:23:33.318-05:00This past week found us at David's school for an art show. Colorful little masterpieces were displayed throughout the halls, and there were a few tables set up along the way where the children can make a few small projects. Samantha came along too and said, "I like this school!" That's good because she's going to be there this coming fall too!<br /><br />One of the sections featured creations from the children from their lesson on sumi-e. Here is David's rendering...<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/davsumie.jpg" /><br /><br />Not too shabby, eh? David really enjoys painting and drawing, so I'm thrilled that his school takes the time to really encourage art and celebrates the creativity of the children.<br /><br />I hope everyone is feeling great and happy. Hugs from all of us!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-4341817043760399473?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-3105103582794665332007-03-16T00:14:00.000-05:002007-03-16T00:31:34.523-05:00<img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/slowhapee.jpg" /><br /><br />Even though, in my opinion, this looks like some sort of mutant animal performing some bodily function, (But hey, that's just me!) this is actually a very quick and spontaneous scribble on an envelope by David of a turtle that really made me laugh out loud. He was so sincere about it, and I just had to smile.<br /><br />The message is simple, and it's one I often forget. That happens so easily, doesn't it?<br /><br />I always worry if I'm doing my best to teach my kids everything they need to know... but every day, when I stop to pay attention, I realize that they are teaching me. I have to remind myself that once in a while you need to be slow and happy.<br /><br />Hi everyone! I miss you guys! Sorry I'm cheap on the e-mails... I really should be better at keeping in touch. The weather warmed up this week, but now we hear we may get more snow. I took the kids to the park yesterday, and will post a couple as soon as I can. Take care!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-310510358279466533?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-55432425006538863982007-03-08T23:55:00.000-05:002007-03-09T00:01:29.007-05:00I believe it goes, "What doesn't kill you will make you stronger." I have spent many moments thinking that to myself, but I also realize I have spent many moments just "surviving". You know, I'll even learn the lessons I need to from these challenging moments in life, but have yet to be able to say that I always take what I've learned and applied it. <br /><br />Some of this, I believe, is out of fear. Do I fear change? No, not much... what I fear is judgment. I hold myself back because I decide in my head that I'm going to fail anyway and get laughed at. Well, lately I have been taking it in baby steps. If I try to change everything at once, I will fall apart. I set myself up for failure that way.<br /><br />So I'm challenging myself every day to make positive change, if even just a little bit. <br /><br />I just wanted to say hello to you friends out there that I miss. You are so far away on the west coast, and I wish we could sit down for a good laugh together. I just wanted to wish you well today and send a smile your way!<br />*hugs*<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-5543242500653886398?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-53327336482954229712007-03-02T20:02:00.000-05:002007-03-02T20:03:35.578-05:00David celebrated at school with Cat in the Hat activities and eating green eggs and ham. <br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/seussbday.gif"/><br /><br />What have you been up to lately?<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-5332733648295422971?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-68155678491916761102007-02-22T17:44:00.000-05:002007-02-22T18:46:41.630-05:00<img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/pinky.gif" /><br /><br />In her new little pink dress from Jen and family.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-6815567849191676110?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-55546904100726654872007-02-16T20:19:00.000-05:002007-02-16T20:21:24.348-05:00Hello!<br /><br />I did some updating a little on the blog's look. I lost some of my links though, but the ones I miss most are the one's to my friends. I think though that some of the sites were a little outdated and a couple of you have new blogs. Can you e-mail me a good link for your most up-to-date blogs??? Sorry!!!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-5554690410072665487?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-82006500069008102382007-02-14T19:06:00.000-05:002007-02-14T19:10:35.182-05:00<span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);font-family:georgia;font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">From the Cookie Protection Program!!!</span></span><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/vcp07a.jpg" /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/vcp07b.jpg" /><br /><br />Unfortunately, though David doesn't seem to mind, school was canceled due to the weather conditions today...so David will have to deliver his love letters tomorrow...if there is school tomorrow, that is!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-8200650006900810238?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-67919633201343435592007-02-13T18:34:00.000-05:002007-02-13T18:34:16.832-05:00Actual scoopable snow!<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/val07e.jpg"/><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-6791963320134343559?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-73820720640805726692007-02-13T18:23:00.000-05:002007-02-14T19:06:34.180-05:00Yes, it's David's first year of school, and thus the first year to make Valentine's!!!!!<br /><br />Here's all the loot!<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/val07d.jpg" /><br /><br />Mr. Casanova himself...<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/val07c.jpg" /><br />working on a very, very, very special Valentine for the little cutie he has a crush on...<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/val07f.jpg" /><br /><br />And Samantha had some of her own to prepare too for David, Daddy, and Mommy!<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/val07a.jpg" /><br /><br />It's just the beginning of many years of holiday school traditions, and it's so much fun! Remember those days of picking out who got which card, and being careful not to give the kids you didn't like that much one that said something too mushy! How about the anticipation of getting all the cards from your friends... awwww, the innocent days of puppy love! LOL!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-7382072064080572669?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-90632851488592047822007-02-13T13:58:00.000-05:002007-02-08T18:14:01.150-05:00Hello, folks!<br /><br />I don't mention the Cafe Press shop very often, but lately have been wanting to add some fun designs. I added two new products. One is a set of greeting cards with the image of Stormy looking out the window. I thought it made a good "miss you" card or something. Second, I added greeting cards and postcards with the Happy Feet design. All cards have blank insides. <br /><br />If you might want to take a look, click <a href="http://www.cafepress.com/steno">here</a>.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-9063285148859204782?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-36147288223857789562007-02-08T18:02:00.000-05:002007-02-08T18:02:18.894-05:00Well, we got a little bit more snow on Wednesday...but I doubt it was even more than an inch. There wasn't even enough to shovel...so we used a stiff broom! The kids enjoyed it for a little bit anyway. It was all melted away by this morning, except for a little blob of the former snowblob named Fred.<br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/finallysnow.jpg" /><br />So happy to have a little snow and a two-hour delay to start school!<br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/snowblob1.jpg" /><br />Fred the Snowblob. Just a tiny little guy, but enough to make David really smile!<br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/snowblob2.jpg" /><br />A close-up shot of Fred the Snowblob. David had a hard time getting the raisins to stay in!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/sunsnow.jpg" /><br />This little one was only outside for a short time. She's such a spoiled girl and got cold quickly. LOL!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-3614728822385778956?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-20609002709436699662007-02-04T09:41:00.000-05:002007-02-07T01:42:58.572-05:00Stormy is in the Stuff On My Cat contest this week!!!!<br /><br />Here is the link: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.stuffonmycat.com">Stuff On My Cat</a><br /><br /><br /></span><a href="http://www.stuffonmycat.com"></a><br /><br />Please help her win a cool kitty water fountain! ha ha ha <br /><br />Thanks friends!<br /><br />************UPDATE*******************<br />Well, Stormy couldn't compete with Lulu and her Viking hat, but she did get lots of votes! Thanks for making her feel special and showing your support!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-2060900270943669966?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-61602671952436255422007-01-24T18:15:00.000-05:002007-01-24T18:16:10.113-05:00<img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/wantout.jpg" /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-6160267195243625542?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-19545963574216967962007-01-24T18:13:00.000-05:002007-01-24T18:15:17.579-05:00<img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/littlesnow.jpg" /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-1954596357421696796?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-69548955530598767292007-01-21T20:35:00.000-05:002007-01-21T20:41:33.847-05:00<img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/thisis32.jpg" /><br />Tomorrow (Monday) will be my 32nd birthday.<br /><br />Keith and I went to the Macaroni Grill for a lovely lunch...and to our surprise when we came back out, it was <em><span style="color:#33ccff;">SNOWING!!!</span></em><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/macgrillsnow.jpg" /><br /><br />I got on the phone right away to David to see if it was snowing in York too! He was soooooooooooo excited! He's been wishing for snow for weeks now! He just sounded so cute!<br /><br />I don't have any profound reflections on turning 32. It's a boring number, and the new year got off to a crappy start... so let's just see what I can make out of 2007. <em><span style="color:#6600cc;">I can say that I'm hopeful and looking forward to some good changes. </span></em><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-6954895553059876729?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-50321313187842921282007-01-21T20:26:00.000-05:002007-01-21T20:33:25.877-05:00I explored the world of wire wrapping yesterday at the SGB-MA quarterly meeting.<br /><br />Here is what I created during the great demo given by Ms. Stevens, one of our members. I have always liked silver, and this was quick to make! I took one of my recent beads and wrapped this pendant. I still have more I want to add to it, but for now, here is my creation. I may take some of my other beads to this next step now that I have some new inspiration.<br /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/sgbmawireproject1.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/sgbmawireproject2.jpg" /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-5032131318784292128?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-6307467416221757322007-01-21T20:24:00.000-05:002007-01-21T20:33:45.189-05:00<img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/missyou.jpg" /><br /><br /><em><span style="color:#ff6666;">I just want to pick up the phone and hear your gentle voice and tell you funny stories. I just miss you so damn much.</span></em><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-630746741622175732?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-7646771666388224282007-01-21T20:21:00.000-05:002007-01-21T20:23:34.788-05:00<em><span style="color:#993399;">Sammie and Comb Over go to the dentist.</span></em><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/jan06dentist.jpg" /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-764677166638822428?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-85935082029404958462007-01-14T18:05:00.000-05:002007-01-14T18:09:35.169-05:00<img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/secondyear.jpg"/><br /><br />To a dear copule and treasured friends of ours...<br /><br />We love you both so much and wish you a wonderful Second Anniversary!! Hope the coming year is full of fantastic opportunities and great moments! We are so thankful to have you in our lives!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-8593508202940495846?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-54668047511468926542007-01-14T18:04:00.000-05:002007-01-14T18:05:46.198-05:00<img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/happyfeet1.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/happyfeet2.jpg" /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-5466804751146892654?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-34654831692149739842007-01-14T17:35:00.000-05:002007-01-14T18:04:35.842-05:00Since my family is in California, at Christmas they send money and ask me to shop for the kids, rather than wasting money on excessive postage. No problem! So this year, I bought the gifts...and needed to sort them out on Christmas Eve for wrapping and assigning.<br /><br />I tell the kids that Santa delivers these special presents from people we love that are far away. I try to match them up appropriately...but this year I was looking over the gifts and sudden inspiration came to me.<br /><br />I flashed back to our trip two years ago in 2005 to California. We made a trip to downtown L.A. and visited <a href="http://www.olvera-street.com/index.html">Olvera Street</a>, where we got the kids two colorful little guitars. They had so much fun here on Grandma's front step playing with them... (David wanted the pink one!)<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/blog05guitars.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/blog05guitars2.jpg" /><br /><br />When we returned to P.A. though, It became clear that these novelty items were not really the best for teaching the kids how to actually play a guitar, and they've been sitting in my closet, where they will be safe. David asks about them often, and sadly I have been denying his request.<br /><br />Funny though... a few weeks before Christmas, I was in Target and suddenly stopped to see an end cap full of kids Little Lyon guitars that came with an easy learn guide. Perfect!!! Something inside of me just told me to buy them, especially for only $20 each!<br /><br />So now I'm sitting on the floor wrapping presents Christmas Eve, and I'm still having a hard time losing Grandma the night before...and it came to me... these guitars will be from Grandma... this is how I applied the Christmas money she sent.<br /><br />The kids unwrapped them Christmas morning...and I made sure they knew that these were gifts of music from Heaven.<br /><br />So David and I are learning. Sam is not quite ready to sit and learn yet, but David really has a knack for music, I think. He picks it up quickly, and we had a lot of fun...<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/heavenmusic.jpg" /><br /><br />We are having fun. We are learning together. We are smiling and thinking of Little Grandma with each new note we figure out.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-3465483169214973984?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-41321540278229195892007-01-09T17:11:00.000-05:002007-01-09T17:14:10.745-05:00<img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/softtouch.jpg" /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-4132154027822919589?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-26351534600174093452007-01-06T23:35:00.000-05:002007-01-06T23:39:47.828-05:00<em><span style="color:#ff6666;"><strong>Message for my family:</strong></span></em><br /><br />The Cafe Press shop has one product set ready of memorial items for Grandma. You can visit to get an idea, but please don't act yet because I want to add more sets of different images. <em><span style="color:#33cc00;">IF THERE IS A PICTURE YOU KNOW I HAVE THAT YOU ABSOLUTELY LOVE AND WANT ON ONE OF THESE PRODUCTS, OR WANT SOME CUSTOM WORDING, LET ME KNOW, AND I WILL PUT UP A CUSTOM ITEM!!!</span></em> <br /><br />Like I said...I have other pictures, and I'd like to add more, but if you get inspired, LET ME KNOW!!<br /><br />Here is the link: <a href="http://www.cafepress.com/steno">www.cafepress.com/steno</a><br /><br />Scroll down to the bottom of the shop for Memorial group. If you have any questions, ask!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-2635153460017409345?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-36318073585854035862007-01-06T19:24:00.000-05:002007-01-06T19:32:29.493-05:00than the angelic voice of Laura Pausini....<br /><br />Just wanted to share these two.... one sad...one hopeful. <br /><br />"One More Time" from the movie "Message in a Bottle"...<br /><object width="400" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/mnFfUF-X-E4"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/mnFfUF-X-E4" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="400" height="350"></embed></object><br /><br />and one of my all-time inspirational favorites...<br />"Le Cose Che Vivi"<br /><object width="400" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/VKR0PGnpfAw"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/VKR0PGnpfAw" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="400" height="350"></embed></object><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-3631807358585403586?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-16051830173297551672007-01-06T12:42:00.000-05:002007-01-06T14:32:34.359-05:00"Jiggity Jig"??? (I don't know why that was in my head! LOL!)<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/sunsetBLOG.jpg" /><br />(A view of the sunset on the plane as we were coming in to land yesterday. I wish I could have captured how spectacular and bittersweet it actually was as we glided above the clouds and the gorgeous red, orange, and yellow softly danced across David's face.)<br /><br />We are back. We are tired. We are sad. We are still sick! Can you believe that? Samantha has been puking since she got home. I don't know if it's the same bug or a new one we picked up on the way, but I'm hoping she doesn't give it to the rest of us.<br /><br />I don't know how, but the last two weeks have felt like a whole month, and I have to shake it off and get my work done. The holidays are over...the goodbyes are over... and now it's time to get back into the swing of everyday life.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 0, 204);">QUICK NOTE TO ALL FAMILY AND FRIENDS</span>:<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! YOU GUYS ARE WONDERFUL!!</span> You know who I mean...I mean you reading this right now because of the wonderful warm thoughts you sent, or the big hugs I got from you on Wednesday and/or Thursday, or all the buzz you have created about what I wrote further down the page about Grandma. You are all so beautiful, and I love you very much.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 153);">ABOUT PICTURES:</span><br />If there are any pictures of Grandma and/or Grandpa you know I have, and you want a copy, let me know. If you have a Walgreens or Wal-Mart close to you, I can upload them to print out at your local store for you to pick up. If you don't have either, I can also do the traditional snail mail for you or e-mail the file.<br /><br />Second.... I have a Cafe Press shop. I'm going to upload there sometime this week a few different images of Grandma and/or Grandpa I like. I will pick out a few products that are more along the lines of memorial related, and if there is something you would like, you can order from them directly through the site. I'll post something about it when it's ready.<br /><br />I didn't take many pictures on this trip, and the ones that I took for some reason were not that good...many out of focus somehow. Here is one of me and the kids taken by Keith on Thursday after the funeral (He cut part of my head off, but it's the best picture of the bunch from that day.)<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/goodbyeBLOG.jpg" /><br /><br />I promise happier posts in 2007. REALLY!!! Thanks again everyone!<br /><br />(LOL -- I just noticed from this picture that Samantha's shoes were on the wrong feet!!! She must have had them on that way all day, and in all the rushing around, nobody noticed. Ooops! I just thought it was a little funny.)<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-1605183017329755167?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-32530069261050547552006-12-30T18:14:00.000-05:002006-12-30T18:23:17.886-05:00Well, 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!<br /><br />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. <br /><br />Sorry for the melancholy post, but I really meant to wish you all a very<span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(153, 51, 153);"> <span style="font-size:130%;">Happy New Year and a great 2007</span></span>. Don't give up on me yet for the Christmas cards...they will go out! I promise!!!! Be back in a week!<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">**HUGS**</span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-3253006926105054755?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-3411452240107612812006-12-24T12:37:00.000-05:002006-12-24T13:06:44.675-05:00Though 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...<br /><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">Very, very peacefully, my little grandma took my grandfather's hand and went home to Heaven yesterday afternoon.</span> 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.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />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.<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/fiestablog.jpg" /><br /><br />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.<br /><br />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.<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/santa122306.jpg" /><br /><br />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. <br /><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!!!!!!!!!</span><br /><br />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<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-341145224010761281?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-38957889793292013532006-12-20T17:36:00.000-05:002006-12-20T17:45:32.179-05:00Man, 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. <br /><br />Anyway..........on to some random cuteness<br /><br />-----------------------------------------<br />Overheard while David and Samantha were fighting in the other room:<br /><br />David: "Santa Claus!!!!!! Samantha is being a bad girl!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"<br /><br />-----------------------------------------<br />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???<br /><br />-----------------------------------------<br /><br />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!" <br /><br />Ah, his first inflatable doll experience! LOL!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-3895788979329201353?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-78648823920634455212006-12-18T13:28:00.000-05:002006-12-18T13:29:19.736-05:00Only one week until Christmas!!!!!!!! ACK!!!<br /><br />I have lots of posts today, so make sure to keep scrolling!<br /><br />Hugs to everyone!!!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-7864882392063445521?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-58825357467782709842006-12-18T13:17:00.000-05:002006-12-18T13:28:25.004-05:00Sunday 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!<br /><br />Here is a zoomed-in view of the harbor from the restaurant...<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/amabrunchharbor.jpg" /><br /><br />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!<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/amabrunchlobster.jpg" /><br /><br />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??<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/amagirlsbrunch.jpg" /><br /><br />And then there is Keith and me too...<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/amabrunch1.jpg" /><br /><br />The owner of the firm I work for is very kind and generous, and it was a fantastic holiday brunch!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-5882535746778270984?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-7445951611735537402006-12-18T13:16:00.000-05:002006-12-18T13:32:26.399-05:00Sammie and our cousins' new puppy. Not sure what the puppy's name is, but s/he sure is adorable!!!!!<br /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/sampuppy1blog.jpg" /><br /><br />(Photo by Miller Family)<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-744595161173553740?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-46627134678558772652006-12-18T13:07:00.000-05:002006-12-18T13:13:06.546-05:00Saturday brought two packages, and this post is just to let the senders know that I got them!<br /><br />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!!!<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/santamail2.JPG" /><br /><br />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!!!<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/santamail1.JPG" /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-4662713467855877265?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-2520959079199673822006-12-18T13:03:00.000-05:002006-12-18T18:28:31.150-05:00I 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!<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/bonebuddy.jpg" /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-252095907919967382?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-12303710282812244862006-12-18T12:59:00.000-05:002006-12-18T13:01:57.099-05:00Following behind this guy on Wednesday morning gave me a smile...<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/tinky.jpg"/><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-1230371028281224486?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-69025874392321989702006-12-18T12:55:00.000-05:002006-12-18T18:31:25.962-05:00We 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!<br /><br />Here are just some highlight photos. Now if I could just get that tree decorated!<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/froghollow2006.jpg" /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-6902587439232198970?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-40837667944874201302006-12-12T18:58:00.000-05:002006-12-18T13:35:02.843-05:00This one had me rolling on the floor too!!!! Just had to share it!<br /><br /><object height="350" width="400"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/KSJHIQtwgoE"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/KSJHIQtwgoE" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="400" height="350"></embed></object><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-4083766794487420130?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-1165766623050836522006-12-10T11:00:00.000-05:002006-12-10T11:05:18.983-05:00Woman in a very loud voice asking her daughter about what mittens she wanted...<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">"SO YOU WANT YOUR THUMB IN ONE HOLE AND THE REST OF YOUR FINGERS IN THE OTHER HOLE?"</span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-116576662305083652?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-1165633397248010542006-12-08T21:38:00.000-05:002006-12-18T13:35:59.046-05:00Samantha 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?"<br /><br />Sammie: "Yeah! I want to wear my wedding dress!"<br /><br />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!<br /><br />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.<br /><br />THE RED DRESS: THEN AND NOW...<br /><br />January 2005...<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/reddressRETRO2.jpg" /><br /><br />December 2006...<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/reddress06a.jpg" /><br /><br />January 2005...Dancing with big brother...<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/reddressRETRO.jpg" /><br /><br />December 2006... Still love big brother...(Who was brushing her hair, by the way!)<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/reddress06b.jpg" /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />and here she is... the little girl who somehow takes my breath away. I love her so much!<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/reddress06BLOG.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/reddress06d.jpg" /><br /><br />(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!)<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-116563339724801054?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-1165631373879148822006-12-08T21:24:00.000-05:002006-12-18T13:07:07.073-05:00Is this guy....<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/dummy.jpg"/><br /><br />Isn't he great? He just sits there with his orange eyes bugged out and his naked butt hanging out not saying a word. <br />Q: Do you remember what happened on January 3, 2001?<br />A: ...<br />Plaintiff Attorney: No further questions!<br /><br />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!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-116563137387914882?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-1165190805658431982006-12-03T19:02:00.000-05:002006-12-18T13:36:43.916-05:00Hi there!<br /><br />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.<br /><br />Just to test out the automatic portrait feature, here is a pic of my Sambina. Gotta love that little face!<br /><br />Have a good week!<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/sam120306.jpg" /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-116519080565843198?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-1164654036541712952006-11-27T13:52:00.000-05:002006-12-18T13:37:11.602-05:00Things I have overheard today coming from the other room...<br /><br />-------------<br />David: Your butt smells like a potato.<br />Sam: Mommy! David said my butt smells like tatoes!!!!!!!!!!!! Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!!!!!!!<br /><br />15 minutes later:<br />David: (singing) "Oh, you got a potato butt! Potato butt! Potato butt!"<br />-------------<br />David: (Sneeze)<br />Sam: Stop!!!!!!! I don't like your germs!<br /><br />--------------<br /><br />Have a good week everybody!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-116465403654171295?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-1164468472542304532006-11-25T10:14:00.000-05:002006-12-18T13:38:01.428-05:00Wow, Thanksgiving came and went in a blink! How does this keep happening?<br /><br />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.<br /><br />Here is a picture of him up on stage with the other chiefs and pilgrims.<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/blogTFstage.jpg" /><br /><br />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!<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/blogTFcutie.jpg" /><br /><br />Thursday we had a nice dinner at Aunt Lynn's and just hung out...<br /><br />Friday we went shopping.<br />Let the season begin now! Here they are with Santa Claus already!!!<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/blogsanta2006.jpg" /><br /><br />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!<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/blogLIGHTS2006.jpg" /><br /><br />Have a good weekend!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-116446847254230453?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-1164217689951553202006-11-22T12:42:00.000-05:002006-12-18T13:38:20.881-05:00You....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?<br /><br /><object height="350" width="400"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/vZhuz9Gbgk8"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/vZhuz9Gbgk8" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="400" height="350"></embed></object><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-116421768995155320?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-1164029266515473832006-11-20T08:26:00.000-05:002006-12-18T13:40:35.872-05:00My Sambina...can't help but show her off. Sorry!<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/sambinaOct06.jpg" /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-116402926651547383?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-1163840074219061802006-11-18T03:45:00.000-05:002006-12-18T13:41:35.513-05:00Riding in the car:<br /><br />Samantha: "Mommy! I want to hear Love Shark!"<br />(You know, that popular song by the B- 52's, "Love Shark, Baby!"<br /><br />-------------<br />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,<br />"I like Quentin, but he is having a bad hair day! His hair is not good today!"<br /><br />--------------<br />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!"<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-116384007421906180?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-1163613061603926892006-11-15T12:44:00.000-05:002006-12-18T13:41:03.611-05:00I just wanted to wish all the best to a distant family that I am so fond of...<br /><br />Congratulations Martine and Ruben on your new little son!! Welcome Midas!!!!<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/rubenmidas.jpg" /><br /><br />(I love this photo, so I hope they don't mind that I linked to it!)<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-116361306160392689?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-1163426995010680682006-11-13T08:59:00.000-05:002006-11-13T09:09:55.036-05:00David turned 6 on Friday the 10th, and the whole weekend was non-stop party! That's the way to do it, right?<br /><br />Friday he got this hat from his teacher and he wore it all day!<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/6bdaycrown.jpg" /><br />After school he went over to my in-laws to open presents and have cake.<br /><br />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!<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/6bdayariel.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/6bdaycinderella.jpg" /><br /><br />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.<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/6bdaycandles.jpg" /><br />Samantha was in charge of putting the candles on, but yes, David is only six.<br /><br />Saturday was more playing and a couple more surprises for David...leading up to<br /><br />Sunday and his party!!!<br />This was the invitation that we sent out...<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/6bdayflush.jpg" /><br /><br />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.<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/6bayfriends.jpg" /><br /><br />David has such sweet little friends...all very nice and cute. We had a great time!<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#9999ff;">HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DAVID!!!!!</span></strong><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-116342699501068068?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-1163022896120303992006-11-08T16:53:00.000-05:002006-11-08T16:54:56.143-05:00<img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/enpCookieD.jpg"/><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/enpCookieS.jpg"/><br /><br />Have a fantastic day!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-116302289612030399?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-1162514213896802392006-11-02T19:32:00.000-05:002006-11-02T19:42:53.980-05:00Well, it took me a little time, but here they are! <br /><br />Hope everybody had a great Halloween!!!<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/hall06A.jpg"/><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/hall06B.jpg"/><br />"Vrooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooom!!!"<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/hall06C.jpg"/><br />"Quack Quack Waddle Waddle all day long! Quack Quack Waddle Waddle, sing the duck song!"<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/hall06D.jpg"/><br />This year's pumpkin crew<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/hall06E.jpg"/><br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/hall06F.jpg"/><br />Bwwwwaaaahhahahahahahahahahahahaaaaaa<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-116251421389680239?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-1162308313065982262006-10-31T10:18:00.000-05:002006-10-31T10:25:13.116-05:00We are excited about tonight! Lots of pumpkins to carve and candy to beg for!<br /><br />Remember any of these Halloween pics?<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/BLOGhall06ref.jpg"/><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-116230831306598226?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-1162163254179948722006-10-29T17:57:00.000-05:002006-10-29T18:07:34.200-05:00Brrrrrrr! 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!"<br /><br />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!<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/BLOGrockyridge102806.jpg"/><br /><br />My girlie on the slide! Found another awesome Thumper shirt! It says, "Hip Hop, and ya don't stop!" (Can't live without Thumper!!)<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/BLOGsamslide.jpg"/><br /><br />and me and my Super David...<br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/BLOGmedavid102806.jpg"/><br /><br />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!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-116216325417994872?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-1161730459082330042006-10-24T17:50:00.000-05:002006-10-24T17:54:19.120-05:00Just one today...<br /><br />Samantha, confused about her holidays, is singing:<br /><br />"Jingle Bells, smell my feet! Jingle! Jingle! Smell my feet! Jingle Bells!"<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-116173045908233004?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-1161454998516811282006-10-21T13:22:00.000-05:002006-10-21T13:25:13.553-05:00Well 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!<br /><br />Hope you like it, and I apologize to anyone who got locked up over <br />the last fiasco! GRRRR!!!!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-116145499851681128?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-1161091127941140662006-10-17T08:13:00.000-05:002006-10-21T13:26:36.350-05:00Sunday 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!)<br /><br /><object width="400" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/aPykO6IVsBQ"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/aPykO6IVsBQ" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="400" height="350"></embed></object><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-116109112794114066?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-1160611043092977592006-10-11T18:57:00.000-05:002006-10-11T19:00:31.813-05:00Sorry... I usually just chuckle to myself after browsing <a href="http://www.stuffonmycat.com">Stuff on My Cat</a>, but this one had me cracking up! Just had to share it. <br /><br /><img src="http://www.stuffonmycat.com/media/2/20061009-Millie.jpg"/><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-116061104309297759?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-1160434052245131122006-10-09T17:29:00.000-05:002006-10-09T18:16:58.540-05:00It's not too apparent down here in York, but up in Elysburg -- the hills around Knoebels -- Autumn is radiating and dancing in the sunlight...<br /><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/4521/1022/1600/DSCN8003.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/4521/1022/400/DSCN8003.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />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.<br /><br />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.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-116043405224513112?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-1160432912013226812006-10-09T17:23:00.000-05:002006-10-09T17:28:32.013-05:00Mack's Ice Cream has dreamt up another one!<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/macksOct06.jpg"/><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-116043291201322681?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-1160432520313728332006-10-09T17:16:00.000-05:002006-10-09T17:22:02.426-05:00My 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!) <br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/SaraOct8.jpg"/><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-116043252031372833?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-1160430826282131592006-10-09T16:43:00.000-05:002006-10-09T16:53:46.306-05:00That Columbas was a pirate?<br /><br /><img src="http://www.zonnestraaltjedesigns.com/columbusday.jpg"/><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-116043082628213159?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-1160353966937488642006-10-08T19:30:00.000-05:002006-10-08T19:40:15.693-05:00Satrina 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:<br /><br />"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.<br /><br />How does it occur?<br /><br />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.<br /><br />Who is at risk?<br /><br />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...<br /><br />an artificial (prosthetic) heart valve <br />a history of previous endocarditis <br />heart valves damaged (scarred) by conditions such as rheumatic fever <br />congenital heart or heart valve defects <br />hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (hi"per-TRO'fik kar"de-o-mi-OP'ah-the) <br /><br />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. "<br /><br />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.<br /><br />Thanks for asking! It was not a dumb question at all!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-116035396693748864?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-1160244213339433752006-10-07T12:56:00.000-05:002006-10-07T13:03:33.340-05:00Samantha 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!<br /><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/4521/1022/1600/DSCN7920.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/4521/1022/400/DSCN7920.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-116024421333943375?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-1160243507017519792006-10-07T12:42:00.000-05:002006-10-07T12:56:43.000-05:00And wonder...and excitement... in they eyes of my child. He is curious and thrilled to be learning new things and making new friends.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/4521/1022/1600/DSCN7915.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/4521/1022/400/DSCN7915.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />His school has begun a program called "Kid Writing". It is a method of getting kids to write on their own without piling old conventions onto them that are difficult to understand. They emphasize phonetics. First the kids think of what they want to depict and draw their picture. Next an assistant helps them create the sentence they want to write. The child then puts down the letters they believe make up the words they want to write! The assistant will then put the "adult writing" underneath the kid writing to show them how an adult would write the sentence. It is not a session where the kid is told they haven't done it right...they are encouraged about anything they can put down on the paper and reassured that it is a step towards adult writing. I think the results are amazing!<br /><br />Here is David's kid writing from 10-5. I know I'm prone to be amazed by my own child...but really, I am very impressed with him. He is fascinating to me.<br /><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/4521/1022/1600/100506kidwritingDavid.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/4521/1022/400/100506kidwritingDavid.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-116024350701751979?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12203045.post-1159817906940675922006-10-02T14:35:00.000-05:002006-10-02T14:49:02.490-05:00For our Amish neighbors and the terrible tragedy in their community today... especially for the girls that are in critical condition and being treated in hospitals right now.<br /><br />No matter how many times you hear about it on television all over the world...you still feel that numb shock inside of you whenever you hear about someone disturbed enough to take the lives of innocent little children. It's impossible to digest, and I am deeply saddened by it.<br /><br />I wish you all peace this evening.<br /><br />For the story click <a href="http://www.wgal.com/news/9981693/detail.html">here</a>.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/12203045-115981790694067592?l=zonnestraaltjedesigns.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Zonnestraaltjehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08764249388989033319noreply@blogger.com5