Game updates.......

will be posted on Sunday. It has been a long day. Very long day. I am exhausted. Evy is waiting for me to watch a movie with her. We are all tired. Great games today. Oh, my, I should say awesome games! I am patiently waiting for the video of Greg's game from Joe. Where is it! Want it now!!! But this one will be a hard one to edit. I'm not giving away anything yet, but I want to make a dvd of this game! Soccer game was awesome too. Wish I had a video of the soccer games. Guess I should break down and buy a digital video recorder or whatever the heck they are called now.
Wrist update: doing fine when I am NOT on the computer.
Back update: Oops, forgot to write about this one. Yesterday morning, it was raining, I came back from some errands and pulled into the garage. Stepped wrong on the running board to get out of the car, foot slipped, no traction on a wet garage floor and I bounced on down out of the car and landed very hard on my bum on the garage floor. Didn't catch my fall with my right hand, but hit my left elbow on something and my bum very hard on the floor. Today my back is screaming in pain. Ugh! And it sure doesn't help having been on the go since 7:30 am this morning, lugging sports stuff, sitting in bleachers and field chairs and jumping around like a crazy mom. I don't like taking pain relievers but will have to in order to get some sleep tonight. Wonder if I still have some super strength from when I hurt my neck. Boy, I am just falling apart here! Calgon take me away - far away! Away where I can sleep for a week.
Ok, no more hints about the football game but it was super! check back Sunday night or Monday, unless I get the video sooner and email it out ;)
Have a fun S A T U R D A Y NIGHT!

Have to watch this video

Ok, so I said no blogging, only weekends. But this was too good to pass up. And I have been keeping off the keyboard as much as possible and getting pretty good typing left handed. And, no, I don't do youtube but got this from an email.

Have a fun weekend!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w_oc1j5NakY

I was right

And didn't want to be, but I was right. I do have carpal tunnel on my right wrist/arm. And I am right handed.
The dr. prescribed anti inflammatory for a week and a snazzy (not really) brace to wear on my right hand all the time. Even sleeping. Ugh. And a follow up visit to a work comp doc. I was hoping not to go that route but looks like I will have to if it persists over the next few weeks.

What does this mean??? I am going to keep off the computer as much as I can, stick to work. Blog updating on the weekends after kids games to keep everyone updated who can not make the games.

This also means I have to put my on loan Webkinz, Hilly Frog and Bully the Bull Dog down to hibernate and stop decorating my Webkinz house. Greg has 2 accounts and gave me this one to use and I am having so much fun playing games and earning Kinz cash. I am quite the expert now at the tile game as that gives me the most cash. :( So sad, I will miss them :(

But I know it is all for the better. So back to Abba and to my lunch that should be done.
Will update on Sunday, maybe Saturday.
Mama Mia!!

Daily thought

There is no distance on this earth as far away as yesterday.
— Robert Nathan

Now that's a good quote. If you think about it you would have to go all the way around the world backwards to get to yesterday. But why look back when you never know what the current day or tomorrow have in store for you.

Not much blogging going on here lately. My right hand, wrist, arm and shoulder are very sore. Sometime I can hardly hold onto the mouse and type. So, been trying to stay off the computer and stick to work stuff. Going to the Dr. this morning as my assistant insisted I go.
Yep, I actually do have an assistant. She is great and I wish she worked here with me and not 90 miles away! But all the same, I am glad to have her even though I share her with 2 other associates (getting corporate here) and only for a few more months. Downsizing and some readjusting. But I still have my job.

TTFN!!

Goal!!

Evelyn's soccer team had a make up game tonight in place of practice. They played the team they were to play on Saturday and got rained out. Since the teams practice at the same time the coaches agreed to have a make up game Tuesday.
The girls were running slow the first quarter but then kicked it into gear in the second quarter. We got scored in the 2nd quarter. But came out on fire for the 3rd quarter. And what do you know.... our Evelyn scored a goal!! Her first career goal!! She plays midfield so is pretty much all over the field. She has had some good drives towards the goal, a few shots and several great passes, even some assists on goals. The ball was being kicked around and smack, wow! took a moment to realize it was Evelyn who scored! You should have seen the grin on her face. Like my dad says, like a jack ass with a mouth full of bumble bees. Well, this was a girl who was giving it all and scored her goal. A well deserved goal.
Game was now tied 1 - 1. Lauren scored the next goal for us which gave us the win at 2 - 1.
Go Kryptonite! What a super game. Sure wish Greg and Tom had been at the game to see the goal too. (I had already taken Greg to practice and dashed back for the rest of the game)
We finished up the evening at Greg's practice. After getting home and dinner, kids ready for bed and homework finished and everything else ready for tomorrow and then some, I am beat. Totally exhausted, as were the kids. So, it's off to the land of nodd for me.
Hope you all had a great day:)

Coyotes!

Friday night I was just exhausted but too much on my mind to go to sleep. I tried doing some stuff on the computer but couldn't concentrate so just decided to go to bed and read. Tom was already in snoresville as he had taken some benedryl as his allergies really kicked in.
Kaydee still likes to sleep outside, not too cold yet. I heard some noise at the back fence and her bark. This was the bark that something is not right (like when she encountered the skunk!) I grabbed my big flashlight and ran to the back door. Kaydee was at the back fence, feet on the brick with her nose through the iron fence. Something was back there.
Then I saw an ear. My thoughts were oh no, it's Zuko (neighbors dog) wandering around in the glenn. It's about 11:30 and I am wondering how I am going to get him out of there and back home.
But then I see one head, then another. There are 4 eyes staring at me. COYOTES!! TWO OF THEM!! My heart started racing and I got scared. I called K to get inside. Slammed the door and jumped back into bed with K. My heart was just pounding. I know the coyotes can not get into our yard as our fence is too high, but shook me up to see them right behind our fence.
We hear them all the time and I have even seen a few during the day. Years ago I saw one in front of the house next door very late at night.
Haven't had any more sightings since Friday. Have heard howls though. Last night K was barking but I didn't see anything out there. There are tons of animals that come out at night anyways.
Hopefully we wont have any more up close and personal coyote sightings.

Time for a good laugh

YOU KNOW YOU ARE LIVING IN 2007 when...
1. You accidentally enter your password on the microwave.
2.You haven't played solitaire with real cards in years.
3. You have a list of 15 phone numbers to reach your family of 3.
4 You e-mail the person who works at the desk next to you.
5. Your reason for not staying in touch with friends and family is that they don't have e-mail addresses.
6 You pull up in your own driveway and use your cell phone to see if anyone is home to help you carry in the groceries.
7 Every commercial on television has a web site at the bottom of the screen.
8 Leaving the house without your cell phone, which you didn't have the first 20 or 30 (or 60) years of your life, is now a cause for panic and you turn around to go and get it.
10. You get up in the morning and go on line before getting your coffee.
11. You start tilting your head sideways to smile : )
12. You're reading this and nodding and laughing.
13. Even worse, you know exactly to whom you are going to forward this message.
14. You are too busy to notice there was no #9 on this list.
15. You actually scrolled back up to check that there wasn't a #9 on this list AND NOW YOU ARE LAUGHING at yourself.

Weekend has come and gone

Here it is Monday morning and I still wish it was Sunday morning. Oh well. 5 more days to the weekend.

Saturday's games were rained out. But we spent the entire afternoon at the festival at church. We were only going to be there for a few hours, but kept meeting people to chat with and the kids were having a great time playing the games. Then I got rounded up to help set up for the dinner/dance that night. It's a lot of work to get the tables set up just right. Wow! And it was neat to see the everything all in place when we got back for the dinner later that night. Very beautiful!

We didn't win the car or the WII, or even the gas cards. But Evelyn won a chocolate cake at the cake walk and Greg won a bottle of sprite playing some game. Plus all the other little goodies from the other games. At the silent auction Saturday night I won a basket with hair goodies and a gift certificate for a free hair cut and style. I really do need that. We didn't win the other fun baskets we bid on. Oh well.

Sunday I didn't make it to the Race for the Cure. But I did walk. Kaydee first and then while Tom and the Kids were at church (I went Saturday), I did my own walk. I walked up to Starbucks and enjoyed the crisp morning air and got lost in my own thoughts about people in my life. It was a great refreshing inspiring walk. And I did wear my race shirt.

Evelyn's team won their soccer game Sunday 2 - 1. Evelyn was on fire for most of the game. She seemed to be elsewhere in the 3rd quarter, but snapped back into reality in the 4th quarter. The girls were tired because we didn't have any subs. But we still played such a great game!
The team made it to the field for their pictures after the game and then to Golden Spoon. The coach promised ice cream if they won!!!

From then it was back home and I got to finish up some projects I have started. Finally! I also finally finished reading "Wicked"

Nothing too exciting going on but it was nice to still have some time at home to get some things done. And also time to get ready for the busy week ahead.

Games rained out

Well, both games were rained out today. Tom and Greg got to Cypress, as was the entire team, and the game was called. The field was too wet. There is still a possibility it could be rescheduled this weekend.
Soccer fields were open so Evy and I headed to the park for her game. Got there and it started raining. People were showing up, refs showed up. We huddled in cars or umbrellas when it rained. Enjoyed the blue sky for about 5 minutes while the teams started warming up, then rain again. The refs called the game.
But there is soccer tomorrow and todays game will be made up on Tuesday.
Evy and I headed to East Coast Bagels for bagels.
So, finishing cleaning house, getting a hot shower and then will head over to church for the festival. It is clearing up so could be a nice day afterall
Just very wet and muddy fields this morning. Thought for sure we would be having some mud bowl games.

Fun Family Festival

Looking for something fun to do this Saturday? Head on over to Santiago de Compostela for a Country Days Family Picnic this Saturday from 11 - 4. There will be contests, games, food, bands, singing, food, raffles, oh and food. The big drawing is for a brand new Toyota Corolla. I have seen it parked in front of church, it's pretty :) Other drawings include gas cards, WII game system, BBQ, stero...... Greg is banking on winning the WII. He would visit it after church. But I reminded him it is for the entire family. It is a WII (pronounced we) not and I (pronounced eye)
Come on down.
The church is located on Lake Forest just north of Trabuco, on the right side.
And if you are looking for a night out, the City Nights dinner/dance is for adults and is from 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm. Tickets are $65 a person.

We will be at the festivities sometime in the late afternoon after games.

Dr. Bob Sears

Last night I went to a talk by Dr. Bob Sears. It was The Healthiest Kids in the Neighborhood. It was at our church but sponsored by a local moms club.
When my kids were younger I probably read most of Dr. Sears (Sr.) books. So, I was excited to go to the talk to see what Dr. Jr. had to say.
I am sure you all have heard over and over about the rise in obesity, diabetes, heart disease, high cholesterol, etc... in kids today. Amazing! It's based on diet and lack of exercise.
Just yesterday Greg told me that if he lost 10 pounds he could run faster in football. If he lost 10 pounds he would be a skeleton! He weighs 70 with his football gear on! And he eats like a wild beast too.
But I was pleased to know hear that what I am feeding my kids is just what the good Dr. recommends. No cereal with artificial sugars or food dies, lots of fruits and veggies, 100% juice drinks, minimal hydrogenated oils, lean meats, whole wheat bread...... Yea me :) Dr. Sears allows his kids one piece of junk food a day. I can live with that! I don't buy a lot of junk food anymore so it's not here for us to snack on. But I can't control what the kids swap at school.
Where to shop? Trader Joes, Henrys, Mother's Markets, Whole Foods Market.
I have not checked out the website yet, but basically the info mentioned in the talk is on the website too: http://www.askdrsears.com/ . It is packed full of information.
Have a super Friday and a super weekend :) Stay healthy

It's raining, it's raining....well it was

If you don't already know, I love the rain. I love to hear it rain, I love to watch it rain, I love the smell of rain and I really love my green grass and flourishing gardens after the rain.
This morning around 3:30 am I heard Kaydee scratching at the door to get in. I was ignoring her. Crazy dog, you like to sleep outside, so don't wake me up this early to get in. I am not walking you at 3:30 am! Well, being the caring sympathetic person that I am, I got up and staggered to the door to let her in. Poor girl. She was wet! As was her bed! I had no idea it was raining out. I was too tired to dry off the wet dog so I put her to bed on her couch. Didn't want a wet dog pressed up against me.
When I should have gotten up I heard the rain and just stayed in bed knowing I should be up, but listening to the rain instead.
Sky is turning blue now but a very pretty after the rain blue. K and I got in our walk after the kids and Tom were off to school.
It's supposed to rain again tomorrow :) Fun. And Greg said his coach said they will have practice even if it is raining. Hmmm, wonder where the umbrellas are? Wonder if there will be soccer practice this afternoon?
I am glad Fall is almost here. I love Fall and Spring. Love cooler weather, not hot or cold, just cool. Guess it's time to put away the summer clothes and get out the cooler weather clothes.
Have a terrific day!

Mystery smell........Can you guess it??

Yesterday afternoon I went into Evelyn's room to put away some laundry and make sure she was getting ready for soccer and not having another Hannah Montana sing along concert in front of her mirror. She was getting dressed but her room sure did smell. I asked her what the smell was? She said "Maybe my shoes?" while sniffing her shoes. Nope that was not it. I opened the window thinking it would just air out.
Skip ahead about 5 hours and Evelyn goes into her room to get ready for bed. She comes out announcing that her room smells really bad and can not sleep in there tonight. So, we start the elimination process.
Food in your room? No.
Glass of milk? No.
Stinky trash can? No.
Smelly shoes? No.
Dirty clothes? Maybe.
Oh, I know, what about the bag from the weekend that I told you to unpack on Sunday and is still sitting there with all your clothes, clean and dirty? Oh, maybe.
Is there anything in the bag that is smelling? I don't know. Maybe.
(Tom) Did you collect any shells or anything from the beach and put them in your bag? Yes.
(Tom) What kind of shells? Clams I think.
(Tom) Live clams or clam shells? I don't know. Live clams maybe.
(Tom) Are there 2 shells closed up or open? Well, one shell with another attached to it.
Open or closed? Ummmmmmmmmm. Open, no closed.

BINGO!! And not the game. Turns out Evelyn gathered up some shells along with a live clam that made it into her bag and has sat in the house since Sunday afternoon. P-U.

Mom - Go into your room, grab the bag and put it out back so it can air out.
Evelyn - But it smells.
M - I know, but you were supposed to unpack your bag Sunday and it's Tuesday. You grab it, run it out back so you room can air out. It will only take you a few seconds.
E - Ok, Kaydee, Kaydee, come with me in my room. (Kaydee - ok, sure I'll go. What are we going to do? But you are making me get up from my nap on my couch)

So, bag goes out back, clothes are dumped out, Tom opens the window further and turns on the fan to further air out the room, Greg gets the air freshener spray and goes to town with that. Tom dumps out the contents of the bag (clothes) and finds the poor dead stinky clam and chucks it into the glenn behind the house. (We have this glenn behind our house, maybe 1/4 mile down a hill and to the street- trees, plants, walking trail, stream, and wildlife). The clam will get mingled in with plants and maybe some bird will find it, crack it open, find the pearl and drop it accidentally in our back yard. Greg really wanted to open it to see if there was a pearl in it.

Now skip to this morning. The clothes still stink as does the bag. I toss the clothes into the washer along with the rest of the clothes from E's room, turn the bag inside out to finish airing out. Thankfully it is a cool morning and hopefully the bag will air out and be useful for the next outing. It is a very nice duffel bag with E's name embroidered on it just for her Adventure Princes campouts.

Oh, and I don't smell that clam in the house or out back!! Mystery stench solved. - Remember the mystery egg? How can I forget that smell!

Fiesta Island

Fiesta Island is a boy scout camping site in Mission Bay in San Diego.

Evelyn and Tom are in Adventure Princesses and are in the Eagle Circle. They have so much fun. They go camping about once a month and have tons of activities and contests, campfires, cookouts, you name it!

Here is a picture from Fiesta Island. Evelyn is on the far right. Now just how many girls can you fit in a kayak??

Soccer update

Evelyn had 2 soccer games this weekend but unfortunately she had to miss the Saturday game as she and Tom were in San Diego. But she was home on time for the Sunday game.
Evelyn was to sit out the first quarter, but one girl got hurt so she was in soon in the game. Evelyn played her usual defense and also a quarter at forward. Her team did not win but played a great game.
There was an accidental hands ball by a girl on our team in the goalie box. So, direct penalty kick, right into the goal. :( Good kick by the other team, but not good for us. We had a few shots on goal but didn't score. It was a good defensive game by both teams.
After our game, 2 of Evelyn's friends were playing. We watched a little of the game.
I surprised Evelyn after the game and we went to a new store, Cherry on Top. It replaced Juice Stop by us and is a frozen yogurt place. You get your own cup, fill it up with what you want and how much you want, put on your own toppings and the put the cup on the scale. You pay per ounce. If I remember right, 33 cents an ounce. It's fun to make up your own frozen yogurt sundae. :) We also made ones for Greg and Tom as they had gone to the driving range to hit some golf balls.
Evelyn was wiped out from her weekend and the game. I insisted she go to bed. Evelyn insisted it was too early and she was not tired. Well, I won and Miss Evy was fast asleep by 7:30.

Next weekend we also have 2 soccer games and picture day. So, yet another sports filled weekend.
Some of these pictures wer taken last week. The teams had the same uniform so siwtched off wearing the yellow pennies. Evelyn is #11.

Evelyn(in yellow) going after the ball
Evelyn is in yellow again.
Evelyn (not in yellow) getting to the ball first.
Kryptonite banner. The girls decorated it themselves. So cool!
Team huddle before the game Sunday. Evelyn is #11.

Tuesday

First day of school went just fine. Kids had fun. Evelyn made a new friend with a girl in her class who is new to the school. Evelyn said she invited her to play with her and 2 of her other friends. Way to to Evy :) Evelyn had homework the first day, but not very much. She got right to it, as usual.
Greg said he and the 2 friends he is sitting by were talking too much. Uh-oh. And Greg also said he had a good day. He was excited to show me his planner and the calendars inside and also his nice clean conduct card :)
After school pick up was just fun. Not really. But being the first day of school with a new pick up plan, I anticipated it would be awhile, but not 40 minutes! Today, I am leaving earlier and if the line is still so long am parking and walking. We are starting our carpool very soon!

Tom took the kids today and I hope the drop off went well. The left at 7:05.
Today we have soccer and football. Bags are already packed as we will probably go straight from school to the park and wait for soccer practice.

Today I am also excited because I am meeting some friends for lunch. Oh, it has been a long time since we have met. I am also very happy because it is cooling down finally. Evelyn told me it is supposed to rain on Friday. She likes to follow the weather. So, out with the summer clothes and in with fall and warmer clothes. Don't' mind a bit.

Have a super day everyone :)

A mother’s arms are made of tenderness and children sleep soundly in them.
— Victor Hugo

Yikes.....

Where did the day go? It's almost 2:00. Today I am leaving early to go to pick up. 2:10 for a 2:40 pick up. I have no idea how it's going to go with the new procudure. But I will have my book with me.
Then we have Kumon and then home. No practice tonight. Ahhhh. (insert big sigh of relief). Wonder if there will be any homework this first day?

Football video

Forgot about the video of Saturday's game.

http://web.mac.com/jfpd/iWeb/SVBears/Game3.html

First Day of School

Today is the first day back to school. (finally). The kids school has been doing some construction getting ready to build the next school building. This meant the kids got out of school June 1 and are just now starting back. A long summer.

Kaydee, Evelyn and Greg
Greg (did not want his picture taken) so handsome!
Evelyn. So tall and beautiful.

Evelyn is in 5th grade which means a uniform change and she got all new uniforms this year. Evelyn is excited to have Mrs. Goode.
Greg is in 3rd grade and is so happy to have Mrs. Salazar. Evelyn had her for 3rd grade.

The first day of school is a late start day. This means the kids can arrive between 8:30 and 9. Parents can go to the classrooms with the kids and meet the teacher, etc.... Normal start time this year is 7:40 and school is out at 2:40 rather than 8 and 3. The extra 20 minutes in the afternoon will be nice. However, getting up and out of the house 20 minutes earlier may be a challenge. But for now, the kids are up, pictures have been taken and Greg is anxious to get going. Kaydee is wondering why everyone is up and moving around by now.

We parked out on the street and walked into school today. Construction is still ongoing. But the new road is done and all the new portables are in. But, no more sandbox or black top for playing. The field is about 1/2 the size and the grass is still growing. Wonder where the kids are going to play today? But, it will work out.
Here is Greg at his desk. Mrs. Salazar is behind him. He would not let me get a picture of him with Mrs. Salazar and did not even want me to take this picture. This is the one that turned out the best. Greg is seated right by 2 of his friends. Think there will be some seating reassignments soon.
Evelyn and Tom at Evelyn's desk. Evelyn didn't want her pictured taken either. But I managed to her her by surprise.

Said goodbye to the kids and headed back to the car. I was so sad to have to say goodbye to the kids. But then again I was happy that the kids are back in school with their friends and a routine and I can get a full day of work in with fewer interruptions. It was a long summer and a fun one too. The kids are getting more independent and finding things to do. They are already talking about when they can drive and that's really not too far off.

Back to me..... stopped by Starbucks for a chai latte (ok, I know I can make it myself, but there is just something about going into Starbucks, smelling the smell of freshly brewed coffee and getting a drink made there.) Now as I write this, I know the day will go by fast and I am anxious to hear how the first day of school went. Will there be homework today? When are the first big projects due? Did we forget anything? And I have to remember to pack lunches!! Oh my!

It’s not how much we give but how much love we put into giving.
— Mother Theresa

Football highlights Bears v. Bears 27 - 6

Yep, that's right. Bears v. Bears on Saturday. Saddleback Valley Bears v. Yorba Linda Bears. Our guys called themselves the Grizzly Bears and called the other team the Panda Bears.

Greg was so anxious for his game to start. He was awake early Saturday morning and anxious to get going. Friday night after practice he complained that his stomach hurt. Still bothering him Saturday morning. I am sure it was just nerves.

When we were getting on the toll road we were right behind Colby's car. So, we followed them all the way to the park. It was a huge park with soccer and football games going on.

Greg was on defense the first half of the game. Then offense the second half. Our Bears won 27 - 6. Yorba Linda was the first to score. Colby scored 3 TD's and Gavin scored 1. Greg had some great tackles. In fact, the first TD was very early in the game. Greg chased the guy down and tackled him but he landed in the end zone for a TD.

After the game Greg told me that his stomach was still bothering him and that is why he didn't play like he normally does. Well, he still played a great game.

Most of the team met for pizza after the game and Greg enjoyed hanging out with his team mates.

Greg was so excitd that Miles, Marie and Grandma Shirley made it to the game. I did not take any pictures of the game but for a few. This is the guys all lined up for the singing of the National Anthem. They played it over the speaker before each game. Now this is the way to start a football game! Yep, I cried like I always do when I hear this song. I probably also cried a bit because I am always nervous before the kids start their games and I just love watching them play and having fun.

After pizza I found my way to Scrappin' in the Hills. A scrapbook store in Anaheim Hills, not too far away. Greg gave me a hard time about going, but I told him he could give me 15 minutes because the last 6 hours were all about football and him. Grumble grumble. But I did find some good finds at the store and I stayed very focused: football and soccer.

Greg and I were both pretty wiped out when we finally got home. Greg played some with Harrison while I got to chat with Traci and then finished putting gear away and did some reading.

TGIF

Went to bed last night so happy today is Friday! And I even got up early today. yeah me! My alarm goes off early, 5:05 I snooze it as long as I can, which usually means until Kaydee comes into wake me up for her walk, which is anywhere between 6:15 and 7. This morning Greg was wedged up against me breathing and drooling into my face. Ugh, might as well get up. But I got laundry done and the house picked up (except for the kids stuff which they have to put away) and a good start on my day. Got out 6:15 ish for the walk. I just love the early morning walks. Wakes me up and is a good way to start the day.
So, what's up for today? Have to head over to the uniform store in San Clemente to get Evelyn some shorts and skorts for school. The ones I got her are too big. Then to Henry's to stock up on fruit for the weekend and to the store to get drinks for after Greg's game. Forgot I am drink mom tomorrow.
Greg has practice tonight and Tom and Evelyn leave for their Adventure Princess camp out at Adventure Island in Mission Bay which is near Sea World in San Diego.
Greg has a game at 10:30 in Yorba Linda. Which means we have to leave here about 8:15. The team is having pizza after the game. So, tomorrow will be a football filled day and we may not even be home until 4. Well, nothing else planned for tomorrow anyways. (Got laundry done and Greg has graciously cleaned the bathroom, vacuumed and cleaned the kitchen for me. - He has turned into quite the helper)
Evelyn has a game at 3 on Sunday. She will miss her game Saturday.
So, we have yet another sporty weekend.

I got the kids a flypen. It's a computer in a pen. There are so many things to do with it and we are trying to figure it all out. There is a great math program I got for Evelyn to help her with multiplication and division. Greg likes the journal. we still need to figure out the note pad. But need to get back on Amazon and order another pen. I thought the kids could just share, but that's not really possible. Will get some math for Greg and see what else I can find. check out www.flypentop.com

Ok, before this turns into a novel about really nothing, best to sign off and get myself to work. And I leave you with a daily thought from my dad's collection.

When down in the mouth remember Jonah - he came out all right! Thomas Edison

Daily thought

From my favorite author, my dad, DD

“I expect to pass through this world but once. Any good thing, therefore, that I can do, or any kindness that I can show to any fellow human being, let me do it now. Let me not defer or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.” Steven Grillet

Good words to start the day with. And good words to remember all through the day.

Thank you Dad :)

A funny story, well to me at least

I have this wonderful friend Julie, who is the real Martha Stewart. She does it all, on a level I can relate to. I always go to her when I need a great recipe or idea.

Last week Greg was at her house for a play date with Aidan. Julie made crepes for the kids for lunch and sent me the recipe. I mixed up a batch last night and put them in the fridge to make for lunch today. Little surprise for the kids. And really, I have not been cooking all that much lately. shhhh I also have dinner cooking in the crock pot!

So, as I am making the crepes, Greg tells me they are not brown enough, not thin enough and just not like Julie makes them. oh, they also don't taste the same. And since, when do you start calling Mrs. Stauss Julie? And Greg also tells me that Mrs. Strauss has a crepe maker.
Well, I said these are the experiment crepes as I have never made them before and I am making them on my pancake griddle. But I liked them, warm drizzled with honey. Oh tasty!

Greg picked one from the batch I made, smeared jelly goobers (pb&j mixed in a jar) on it and then decided it was just not the same and he was only having cantelope for lunch. I fixed one myself and thought it quite tasty. Evelyn had 2 and decided she was full. I still had a bit more room in my tummy so finished off Greg's.

Cleaned up the huge mess we made and put the rest in the freezer for me. I think they will make a wonderful late night snack drizzled with honey or sprinkled with some powdered sugar and rolled up.

Only 2 more days of summer vacation left. I am trying to make the most of it for the kids . And give Greg something more to eat than cereal. I don't even know how many boxes of cereal we have been through this summer. Sometimes it's breakfast, lunch and dinner for Greg. Well, at least he is getting milk and grain. I don't buy sugar cereal.

Then when it's all cleaned up, Greg asks if he can have $1 if he vacuums the house. Sure why not. Don't eat what I cook for you and then take my money too boot! Hey, at least the house is vacuumed.

And then, Greg decided to go back out front and hit some more golf balls. I told him yesterday they have to stay on the grass, too many things that could get hit. "Watch this mom" Swak! Golf ball hits the brick fence and then comes sailing back past us. Good thing my car was not in the driveway. "oops" is Greg's comment. Me, I have a scowl on my face. Next ball, whack, just misses the neighbors car parked in the street 3 houses down and the ball continues to go rolling down the street. Me, ok Greg, that is enough. I told you only to hit them to the wall and the balls have to stay in our yard, go pick them all up now. Pout pout pout but he does it. Back inside, turn up the AC as the garder is here and plop on the couch.

I know the kids are bored, but they wanted to do nothing these last few days. Cartoon, Webkinz, golf, cooking, getting airplanes stuck in trees, ironing, singing and dancing, cleaning rooms, etc..... good for them to find something to do

That's the end of my story. Maybe I should write a book???

Daily thought

Map out your future – but do it in pencil. The road ahead is as long as you make it. Make it worth the trip.
— Jon Bon Jovi

A great daily though from one of my favorite music artists.

zipadee doo dah zipadee ay - my oh my what a wonderful day

Monday the kids and I spent the day at Disneyland. We had a super fantastic day! Perfect weather, minimal crowds, perfect.

We got into the park shortly after 10 and stayed the entire day. Our neighbor Traci and the kids met us in the afternoon and we hung out for a few hours.

First ride we went on was the Matterhorn, twice (and twice later in the day). I convinced the kids that Space Mountain was the best ride ever. My favorite as a kid. And they sure agreed. We went on Space Mountain 5 times! We went on most of the rides, some more than once even. Aside from Nemo, the longest line was for Splash Mountain and that was 20 minutes.

The park closed at 8:00 and it was about 7:55 when we got off the Matterhorn for the last time and decided to check out the Nemo line. The line guides for the ride said that the keep the lines open till closing time and will keep the ride open for the last person in line to go through the ride. So, you can technically get in line one minute before closing and the ride will stay open. :)

So, we waited in line for Nemo for an hour and were the 3rd to last sub to go through the underwater adventures of Nemo. Was the wait worth it?? In my opinion, not really. The kids thought it was ok. I sure would not wait hours and hours to go on the ride. I will go on it again only if the line is less than 30 minutes and all they hype has calmed down.

We pulled into the garage at 10:15 pm and were simply exhausted! But we had a super fun day at the happiest place on earth!

I didn't bring my camera but we did get to email pictures from Buzz Lightyear. To infinity and beyond!!

Space Ranger Evelyn
Space Ranger Goofy, aka Greg
Space Ranger Greg
Space Ranger Naomi
Space Rangers Naomi and Harrison (hidden behind the lazer gun)

God Bless America, Our President, Our Troops, Our People

So I knew today was Sept 11 but it took me awhile to remember it was 9-11. So, I am a little slow at times. I still remember that early morning call on Tom's cell phone and Tom turning on the TV and the images of what was happening.

I actually started this post awhile ago and had it saved. Finished it up as today is a great day to post it. No editing done to the words as it is how I had originally intended it to be posted.

Ok, so this is my blog and I can say what I want and put in pictures that I want. So here goes. If you are offended by this, well, don't read this post then.

I will say I do support our Troops, our Country and our President. That is why I live here - the home of the free and the brave. I cry when I hear our National Anthem played at baseball games and other events. I will proudly say the Pledge of Allegiance, I like reading In God We Trust on our money. I am proud to be an American!

I got this email from a friend of mine. Took me awhile to put it all here so please read through.

Friendship is like the breeze,You can't hold it,Smell it,Taste it,Or know when it's coming,But you can always feel it,And you'll always know it's there,It may come and then go,But you can know it'll always be back.


Some really good pictures, and I emphasize good!!

Subject: Proof of abuse by our Troops.NOT ..things the media missed.....



Armed American Troops Force Iraqis to Seesaw Until They Talk!

Iraqi Child Bites GI In Self Defense After Obvious Torture!

If you can, read caption under photo!!!!!GI Falls Asleep On Duty While Using Iraqi Child As Body Armor!









GI Overheard to say 'Talk or I'll tickle you till you pee!'
More Evidence Of Failed US Intelligence Policy.
























Soldier Attempts to Eat Iraqi Child !

Clear Evidence of Forced Labor by U.S. Troops!

Iraqis Grateful That American Forces Did Not Open Fire During Soccer Game!

Soldier Caught At 'Tickle-Torture' To Extract Intelligence!GI Forces Iraqi Child To Hang By Fingertips!








No comment here. ?There's nothing funny about this one.?May the good Lord bless every one of our troops wherever they are!

I PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA , AND TO THE REPUBLIC, FOR WHICH IT STANDS, ONE NATION UNDER GOD, INDIVISIBLE, WITH LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL!


Prayer wheel for our Marines, soldiers, sailors,coastguard, and airmen..please don't break it 'Dear Heavenly Father,Hold our troops in your loving hands.Protect them as they protect us (and the Iraqi people). Bless them and their familiesfor the selfless acts they performin time of need.Please stop a momentand say a prayer for our troops(land, air, and sea) inAfghanistan, Kuwait ,Iraq and all around the world.This can be very powerful.Of all the gifts you could give our U.S. Military,Prayer is the very best one!

Daily thought

And as we head off to Disneyland, I leave you with this daily thought.....

How beautiful it is to do nothing, and then rest afterward.
— Spanish proverb

Football highlights Bears v. Trojans

Here is the video from Saturday's game. The team we played were the Trojans, yep, just like USC. Greg said they were fast! Tom said the school was so nice, the field was on top of the parking garage. The game was at Maranatha HS in Pasadena (think we played them when I was in HS).
So, for some highlights. About 1/4 way into the video, Greg (#88) throws himself on a down ball. Don't know if the Bears gained possession of the ball as I was not there. Then about 3/4 way into the video is Greg's super run. Then the clip after that is his touch down.
So, sit back and enjoy highlights from the game.

http://web.mac.com/jfpd/iWeb/SVBears/Game2.html

And I have not tried this yet, but you can now download the game files here:
http://homepage.mac.com/jfpd/SVBears/

no photos of this game as I was not there. But I do have soccer photos and other photos to post soon. blog is kinda boring with out photos.

One more week to go

We still have one more week to go before school starts, 9-17-07. We have not been by the school for a few weeks to see how the construction is going. Just about ready for school. Evy needs some uniform bottoms and hopefully I can convince her to get her hair trimmed. Greg is good to go and will just get a little buzz, but mainly so his football helmet doesn't get too tight. His hair grows fast.

So, what are we doing next week????
Monday - Disneyland (vacation day for me)
Tuesday - Greg has a buddy coming over
Wednesday - who knows
Thursday - who knows
Friday - Greg going to a friends house, Evelyn and Tom leave for Fiesta Island for Adventure Princess camp out.
Me, work. (ugh)
Oh, and we have practice. And Evelyn needs to get on the phone to plan some get togethers with a friend or 2. Although she is just happy hanging out in her room singing along to Hanna Montana.

Greg planted a flower garden out back tonight. Good idea on his part and we put it in a place that has been very neglected. I hope the soil is good enough and the flowers don't die out too soon. But he did mix in a lot of potting soil.

I have so many pictures to post and things to write about. Will keep working on that. I have been neglecting our blog as things have just been way too busy lately.

Have a super week!

Game highlights

Time for game updates:
Football: Tom and Greg made it to Pasadena in plenty of time. I was told this was a tough game for the Bears. And that is reflected by the score, 33 - 6. Tom said the boys were very tired. And who would not be, getting up that early for a game. But, back to the highlights, Greg scored a touch down in the 4th quarter. He had a good run, got tackled within 10 yards of the goal line. Another player advanced the ball. Next play, Greg go the TD!! Whoo-hoo! Greg also played a lot of defense. He told me he was so tired but didn't want to give up.
When Evy and I got home from soccer, poor guy was looking wiped out. He was laying on the couch watching the Oregon Ducks and Wisconsin football game. He is at his friends birthday party at the lake right now. Hopefully getting in the water will wake him up.

Soccer: What a first game for Kryptonite! Evelyn was playing left mid field which seems to be her position. She was so into the game. She had many good stops, took the ball up the field and awesome throw ins! Way to go Evy!! She played the entire game. Her team won 3 - 2 and it was a very well matched game. Her friend was on the other team, as well as 2 girls from her team last year.
Evelyn told me after the game that she was so tired but didn't want to come out of the game and was glad she was able to stay in and play the entire game.
Now Evelyn has planted herself in my bed watching movies. I think I will join her soon. We are all pretty wiped out!

But all in all, it was a great day for soccer and football and the kids played good games. Tomorrow will be another day to rest.

Updates

Well, it's been a long and busy week and no time to post anything. Sorry :(
Evelyn started soccer practice Tues and Thurs. That's just one more place to be. That's ok, we are used to living out of our car. Hey, maybe I will buy an RV!!
Evelyn's team is Kryptonite. Cool! They made their own banner after practice on Thursday. The first game is today, 10:30. Evelyn is #11 and her team is white and blue.
We had our first conflict of the season. Greg and Tom are now in Pasadena for Greg's game and it's probably almost half time. No update yet. They left at 5:15 this morning. Greg bounced right out of bed and got dressed. They ate in the car. Me, I went back to bed until K woke me up around 7 for her walk.
I just got Evy up and it's time to get ready for soccer. Need to leave at 9:30.
So, look to the left to see Evelyn's schedule. Many games overlap so we will be juggling schedules around on the weekend.
Hope everyone has a great weekend!!

GO KRYPTONITE!!
GO BEARS!!

Becoming Jane

I went to see this movie last night with my friend Julie. It was so good! Give this 2 thumbs up!! I cried at the end. Total chick flick, although there were a few men in the theater. Now I must read the books and one that I think is called The Jane Austin Book Club.
After the movie we had a late dinner at Miguel's in Foothill Ranch. I have not been there for so long and it was so good and such yummy margaritas, I could have had several. Oh, the food was good too - enchiladas and chili rellano. Delicioso!
Had a wonderful, much needed moms night out! Thanks Julie :)

Football highlights Bears v. Griffins

Saturday was Greg's first official game. And it was a hot day for football, let me tell you.
We played at Aliso Niguel HS in Aliso Viejo. Very nice stadium. The boys had to be all suited up to be weighed in at 1:00. Tom took Greg over while Evy and I got there before the game.
We set up our easy up in the stands for some much needed shade. There was a little breeze but it didn't help very much. I can just imagine how the guys were on the field. There were 3 easy ups on the field for the guys to sit under, and benches too!
Los Alamitos scored the first TD. But the Bears went on to get 3 more and the final score was 20 - 6. Go Bears!!
Greg had some great tackles. And, he scored his first Touch Down!! Raced down the field for a score! So awesome. That was the last TD of the game. He was so excited!
This video clip is highligts of the game. You need quicktime to play it. There are also links on the website for other photos.
http://web.mac.com/jfpd/iWeb/SVBears/Game1.html
Greg is #88, wearing white. His TD is toward the end of the video. In the TD before Greg, you can see Greg do the hand off to the guy who scores.

After the game we headed home for a quick change and back to Eric & Chrissy's for dinner. (They were also at the game). And the kids went swimming after dinner. Came home and I just crashed. Kids were so tired too, especially Greg. You could just see how tired he was and how he was trying not to be tired.

Way to go Bears!!