All Seasons

Announcement

2008-08-19T18:08:00.001-07:00

I am very pleased to announce that starting next week I will have a cleaning lady! How good is that? If I don't get one I will end up looking like this since I am back to work full time.

Waldi

2008-08-17T21:02:00.000-07:00

In 1972 Waldi was the first official Olympic mascot in Germany. Isn't he adorable! Just a little trivia for you in the spirit of the Olympics. Is everyone enjoying them as much as I am? I have decided that I want to go to China now and that I want to got to the next Olympics in London. We better start saving our spare change.

Nothing But a Good Time!

2008-08-17T20:09:00.000-07:00

I am going to confess a guilty pleasure that I am quite frankly embarrassed about... I am still an eighties hair band fan! I know... it is something I have tried to move on from, but am just unable to do so. Friday, Aaron and I along with our best friends, Jules and Dan went to the Poison concert in Indy. It is amazing how hearing the same songs over and over can bring back so many memories, some that I am not proud of. Bret Michaels reminded us several times that they have been coming to Indy for twenty-two years. There are many levels to this...are we really that old?? And...I want to know how many times we have gone to see Poison as well as the many other make up wearing glam bands of the eighties. It was quite an amusing sight to behold, not Poison, but the colorful crowd that we were able to watch in amazement. We saw some interesting stuff and realized that we are very normal and don't really belong at a Poison concert. Many people still had their mullets looking like time stood still from the eighties. It was certainly worth the trip just sitting and watching the crowd. There were many people just like us who looked like parents who were reliving the glory days. You should have seen us dancing with our eighties moves. Jules and I felt as though we were 17 again! Until we returned home to the kids...............Oh well it was good while it lasted. Really, I wouldn't want to go back to 1986 for anything!! One more thing I decided, I won't let my teenagers attend any concerts except for Sandy Patty!

Vacation

2008-08-17T19:24:00.000-07:00

Aren't you sick of looking at that darn camper. Thought I would post a few pictures from our vacation in Florida. I sure miss this beach! We had a great time meeting up with our friends. The hardest thing about vacation is having to come home.

The Camper we ALMOST bought!

2008-06-17T07:56:00.000-07:00

Here are photos of the camper we almost bought. After careful consideration and many hours of looking, we decided to hold off on our purchase. With All Star games coming up, our weekends will be filled with hours of ball games during the month of July. So, we decided to revisit this next spring. Maybe we can get a better deal on one just like this next year.

Memorial Weekend Fun

2008-05-26T13:55:00.000-07:00

What a busy and fun holiday weekend it was. We are so happy that we finally had a beautiful weekend! Here is a rundown of what all we did...

Neighbor had a baby

Yard work

Worked concession stand at the ball diamonds

Shopped (have to get that in some time)

Our first time at "The Cabin" which included yummy food, Bob Marley reggae music, hillbilly golf, washers, a rock'n game of kickball, bike riding, campfire, strawberry shortcake. Thank you Shannon for inviting us to your cabin on the ocean. We had so much fun!

Cookout at our house...more yummy food, awesome game of wiffle ball, washers, and a bonfire.

Mini Golf, more grilling out

All of this fun was awesome, but wow, I am tired and so are the children!! Amazing enough they just took off with their dad to play nine holes of real golf. Now, I think I am going to take a nap.

3 a.m. Post

2008-05-21T03:00:00.000-07:00

Good Morning...or should I say Good night? I am sure you are all wondering what in the world is she doing posting at three in the morning? I am kind of wondering that myself. Well, it started with my first born quietly coming up and tapping me on the the shoulder..."mommy, can I sleep with you?" "I can't sleep". So, I make room in the middle of Aaron and I. Then about an hour later I hear my second born loudly traipsing up the stairs, turn the light on in the bathroom, he does nothing quietly, you know strangely enough that is one of the things I love about him. That is when I gave up and just got up to make room for him. We have a king size bed, but it just isn't big enough anymore for the four of us. So, here I am downstairs in the cold family room wishing I could just go back to sleep. Oh and I need to mention that the dog decided that she needed to go outside too? Now as I lay here on the couch (did I say that I wish I was upstairs in my comfy warm bed?) I was beginning to feel a bit angry that they are in MY bed or as they have always called it the "Big Bed". I need to remind myself that I am so lucky to have those two and the fact they feel comforted coming to us in the middle of the night if they wake up. So now my anger ceases to feelings of contentment in knowing how blessed I am. That "Big Bed" holds so many dear memories...OK now get your minds out of the gutter...I guess I should clarify... family memories. The nightly feedings when I nursed these babies...those nights when they needed soothed from nightmares...nights when they had high temps and the flu...just those special snuggle times in the mornings when we watched cartoons...card games...laughs and tickles...bed time stories. Wow, life is good! Even though I CAN'T SLEEP!

"Mom, Can We Keep Him?"

2008-05-20T20:00:00.000-07:00

Look at this precious baby bunny we found in our neighbors yard. The boys wanted to keep him...I was tempted, but decided that it probably wasn't a good idea.

Pre-School Graduation

2008-05-16T07:30:00.000-07:00

Here is my big boy...going to Kindergarten next year! We are so proud of this guy! These adorable girls are fighting about who is going to marry Logan. We are sure going to miss our pre-school after four years sending our boys. We will certainly keep this place in our prayers. Thank you for loving our children!

It's All About Me!

2008-05-15T09:19:00.000-07:00

I have been tagged by my friend Ronda. Here it goes!

Jobs I have held:
1. Indiana Wesleyan adjunct for 4 years
2. Allen elementary school teaching 1st grade for 9 years & long term teaching position 3rd gr.
3. Dr. Bruner and Dr. Root's office as assistant for about 7 years, it all started the summer of 1986 and I worked there during summers and breaks through college until I got my teaching job.
4. Arby's..."One beef and cheddar please"

5 Movies I Love:
1. Pretty Woman
2. When Harry Met Sally
3. My Big fat Greek Wedding
4. How to Loose a Guy in Ten Days
5. Something's Gotta Give

5 TV Shows
1. Friends
2. Grey's Anatomy
3. Private Practice
4. Decorating Shows
5. American Idol

Places I have Lived
1. Marion
2. Muncie
3. Marion
4. Marion
5. Marion

Foods I Love:
1. Mexican
2. Italian
3. Yummy salads

Where I Would Like to Be:
1. Down in North Carolina visiting my sister
2. Marimar Beach, FL
3. Europe
4. Safari in Africa
5. Somewhere looking at mountains in a swing

Who I Tag:
Aamie
I think all of my blog friends have done this!

Summer Goals

2008-05-15T07:55:00.001-07:00

I am beginning to worry about summer, having the children home all of the time is starting to make me feel a bit anxious. I have always looked so forward to the kids being out of school because I generally miss them. For some reason this summer feels different... So, I have decided to set some goals for myself. By putting it on the blog, I will be more accountable in achieving them. Right???? Here it goes!

10. Implement a behavior plan (the teacher in me) I have already put this into place, the challenge is to be consistent. See above picture...beads are put into the purple jar for good behavior.

9. Let my kids have a friend over once a week, if they earn it, see # 10. UGH!

8. Get membership to the splash house.

7. Swim, swim, swim

6. Golf, golf, golf

5. Cook more often (healthy)

4. Go on a few small trips (Kings Island, Red Sox game, etc... once they earn them)

3. Keep my flowers and gardens alive (I usually get tired of watering by the end of July)

2. Loose 10 Pounds! I need to loose more, but let's be real people!

1. HAVE FUN WITH MY KIDS!

Mother's Day

2008-05-11T13:47:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to my mom, and all of my amazing mom friends! What would I do without all of you....yes you know who you are! (o:

Today

2008-04-29T05:23:00.000-07:00

This is where I want to be today! That is me in the picture!! I don't know if I have told you that we just purchased this private Island. Not sure what to call it...any suggestions?

Dog Hunt

2008-04-28T17:47:00.000-07:00

You looking for me?

Well...I just got back in the house soak and wet after going on the hunt for our mini Doxie Chloe. Apparently she was out in the garage and the boys went out for a minute by opening the garage door. So...we thought our little pooch went for a stroll! After a half hour of searching...us and the neighbors, we had no Chloe. Then I hear my husband shout, "I have her!" Where was she you ask...? In the van!! We must have a super smart dog who can open car doors.

Dad...We Need a Baby!

2008-04-28T09:52:00.000-07:00

My second born proudly announced to a room full of friends at the hospital...

"Dad, we need a baby" Aaron responded, "You can go and see Drew any time you want."

Drew

2008-04-28T05:10:00.000-07:00

He's here! Adorable 6.15#'s 20" long! After much indecision, monitoring, and blood pressure taking, the Dr. decided to take him by cesarean at 10:oo on Friday night. Jules and Dan are doing well and adoring this beautiful miracle for all of us to love. Big brothers Nick and Alex are pretty proud as well! More pictures to come later!

A Baby, A Dog and Some Basketball!

2008-04-23T07:44:00.000-07:00

This is something that you don't see everyday...an eight month pregnant woman playing basketball. The crazy thing is that she outlasted her dog Madison. Kate is our neighbor who rides motorcycles, gardens and plays with our boys. To my knowledge however, I don't think she has ridden since she has been pregnant. Kate won Luke over the day they were moving in and he saw her do a little spin move shot and he was in Love! (o: They are the best neighbors ever! Don't move Kate and Ryan!! My boys need to teach your kid a thing or two!

It's Time for Bed

2008-04-22T19:00:00.000-07:00

These are the things that we have to do before bed. After the bath...get another bath from Chloe. Then get a drink of water. Why is it that bedtimes are so difficult?

My second born was so mad at me tonight because I wouldn't let him have his sorbet. (he was exhausted) Then I took a picture of his bootie... things went from bad to worse. You would have thought that I beat him. Isn't it a cute bootie? I just couldn't resist...I love boxer briefs! I promised him that I would erase it from the camera, however I didn't promise that I wouldn't put it on my blog for all to see.

While we are talking about bedtime...notice that it is still light outside in these pictures...9:00!! I really don't like daylight savings time. We have gone from 8:00 bedtime to 9:00 without even noticing. It literally sneaks up on us!

I am rejoicing tonight! Today was my last day of class until the fall! YEAH!

Happy Birthday Honey...Happy Tax Day Uncle Sam!

2008-04-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

Happy birthday, Love of my Life! What a way to remember a birthday...tax day! Thank you for making me laugh and smile everyday! You are an amazing...fantastic...wonderful...fabulous husband and father.

Have you filed our taxes? Kiding!

Big Night

2008-04-13T21:01:00.000-07:00

I had to write this... today my eight year old actually took the dog out twice, set the table and cleaned the table off WITHOUT me asking him to. Then we snuggled when I was tucking him in. During this time we always have the best talks. Tonight he asked me if when he is in heaven will he see Thomas Jefferson and Chloe our dog??? Why do you suppose he wants to see Thomas Jefferson in heaven? How random is that? Good questions my sweet boy!

Grey's Countdown

2008-04-11T18:49:00.000-07:00

Only 13 more days until Grey's comes back! Party at the Lefflers' so everybody bring their McBlankies to watch McDreamy. Jules, Missy, Ronda and Shannon...save the date April 24th.

Seriously!!

The Doxie Song

2008-04-10T18:25:00.000-07:00

I could watch this over and over...and also take a "few" of these home with me!

Spring...Where did you go?

2008-04-09T10:36:00.001-07:00

Spring...where did you go? I was so enjoying your sunshine and warm temperatures. I so enjoyed watching the kids play outside. I so enjoyed walking outside. I so enjoyed playing golf. I so enjoyed putting on my capri pants and flip flops. I so enjoyed walking out of the grocery store last night without a coat. Please come back soon!

Picture is called Spring Fever by Terry Rittalin

Squirmy the Wormy

2008-04-07T19:49:00.000-07:00

Today I had a conversation with my friend Shannon about her son L...he seems to have quite an obsession with bugs...worms...creepy crawlies. Once he finds a crawly, he immediately has to save it for his bug "house" or whatever you call those things. It is absolutely adorable. Anyway, while we were over there, L was digging up worms and it reminded me about last year when my second born was in his first year of pre-school. This is one of those stories that will haunt him through adulthood... It makes me cringe and laugh at the same time. One day his class was outdoors during recess and they discovered a worm. The worm soon became a class pet for all to love and observe. He was named "Squirmy". .. Pretty good name huh! All of the students were given a chance to go up to look and play with Squirmy. Next, it was my son's turn...from what I hear he wasn't too gentle with the worm and he kind of squished it... Needless to say, the class was a bit angry with my son the worm killer! As a matter of fact they pretty much let him have it. I think Mrs. Beth almost had a riot on her hands. (o: She assured me after telling me the story that it was a great teachable moment to have a lesson on forgiveness and showing someone grace! All was forgiven by the end of the day. I however can't look at a worm without laughing and thinking about my baby boy!

Duckies Everywhere

2008-04-06T12:11:00.000-07:00

The shower turned out great...lots of good food, fun and wonderful gifts. It was so nice seeing everyone. Can't wait to meet Drew!!!! He is certainly going to be Loved!

Our Neighbor Duck

2008-04-06T11:34:00.001-07:00

Speaking of Ducks...I had a visitor today... Oliver Blocher (He likes to be called Ollie) is our neighbor duck who often waddles over to see what is happening at the Lefflers'. He also enjoys terrorizing our doxie Chloe. Ollie is a domesticated mallard, isn't he so cute. He is pretty tame and he can only loft. He typically stays around his yard and goes in his pen on their back screened in porch at night. It always makes my day when he comes over to just say hi and see what goodies he can find in our yard. The best part is watching when he follows their chocolate lab Madison around. It is kind of like our own little farm in the city.

Rubber Duckies

2008-04-03T08:56:00.000-07:00

I have become obsessed with planning a baby shower for my bests friend Jules. She is pregnant with a sweet baby boy whose due date is approaching quite quickly! Beth (Jules sister-in-law)and I have been having a good time planning this event. I just hope everything turns out wonderfully...good food, fun, and great gifts. We have come up with cute centerpieces and favors...I think? I am loving this rubber ducky theme! Hope it all comes together. Can't wait to celebrate Andrew's(Drew's) upcoming arrival!!
Will share pictures of the event soon.

Have You Seen These People?

2008-04-02T21:45:00.000-07:00

Dear Mom & Dad,
Are you ever going to come home? We miss you very much! I promise I will be good from now on...is that why you left? I will try to cook for you more often and I will have the boys clean your bathrooms. Please be careful on your way home. Can't wait to see you! XOXOXO
Love you,
Angie

A Lil' Bouncing and Ball

2008-04-01T10:00:00.000-07:00

My friend Missy and I took our boys to a fun place in Pendleton called, Just for Kicks. It is a large gym that has tons of balls and goals and blow up jumping toys. What a great way to expel some pent up energy from being cooped up at home on spring break. The day went well and the kids had a great time. What more could four boys want? Ice Cream...

Happy 40th Dan!

2008-03-31T07:45:00.000-07:00

Surprise!
Saturday was our best friend Dan's 40Th birthday. We couldn't let the first of our group of friends turn the big 40 without a little celebration. So, we decided to throw a surprise birthday. Where better than the home of Jule's (Dan's wife and my best sister friend) parents. The irony here is that is the home of many parties and memories from our past. LOTS of good memories! Everyone came dressed in 80's attire including leggins, concert shirts, mullet wigs and much more. Don't we look good? Dan is the Wham fan in the yellow shirt. Boy did we have a great time! It is times like this that we realize how important friends are in our lives. You see, this group of guys, Jules and I hung out with in high school and actually ended up marrying two of them. We have been so grateful that the guys married delightful women that we can now call friends. This is nice when we all get together, because the guys go in one room and the girls go to another...then we don't have to hear the same stories over and over again. Hard to believe that we have been friends for 25 or more years. WOW...we are getting old! Can't wait to see what we come up with for the next 40Th in the group?? Look out Greg!

Pig

2008-03-26T17:37:00.000-07:00

Those who know our boys, realize their love, no... obsession for ball. Any kind of ball. (except soccer) Every evening they challenge my husband to a friendly game of Pig up in the playroom. They quickly realized that it just wasn't quite long enough. So, pig turned into horse and horse turned into Purdue...now the game of choice is MISSISSIPPI!
Poor hubby! Thanks honey for being such a fabulous DAD!

Does this Look Like a Happy Face?

2008-03-24T08:39:00.000-07:00

We are all thrilled that spring has arrived, even Chloe enjoys going out and meandering through the yard smelling every inch that I allow. She especially enjoys ringing her bells to go out even if she doesn't have to potty. The signs of spring are everywhere including the birds singing. This is the part that is troublesome for Chloe. The condescending sounds from the Tufted Titmouse bird. He may be cute you say, but Chloe is tired of the mocking calls that these birds sing out to her..."wiener, wiener, wiener!" Have you seen or heard this bird? All of you doxie lovers beware of the repercussions that this bird causes!

Knock, Knock!

2008-03-21T07:31:00.001-07:00

We have had a recent fascination with knock knock jokes. This book has become a favorite in our house. Here are some of the highlights. The best part is hearing them over and over again and acting like they are funny. Enjoy!

Knock, Knock.
Who's there?
Luke
Luke who?
Luke out below!

Knock, Knock.
Who's there?
Anita
Anita who?
Anita bath!

Hosanna

2008-03-20T10:18:00.000-07:00

Second born at pre-school after his program of singing and waving palm branches.

Happy Spring! Or is it?

2008-03-20T04:58:00.001-07:00

It is finally here! I think I will wear my pastel stripe panties as a celebration of spring. Now...why doesn't it feel as though spring is here? The weather is forcasting Easter Sunday to be a high of 45 degrees! Not too happy about wearing my new Easter dress with short sleeves and no hose in 45 degree weather. Enough complaining, I know it has to come soon right? Hope you all have a wonderful Easter! God Bless!
May the heavy winds not blow up your new Easter Dresses! Trust me, I have been there and done that...I may share that story some day!

Giant Gazing!

2008-03-19T12:00:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we went to the Marion Giants semi-state game. I spent much of the game watching my eight year old interact with his friends and cheer on the team. It was the first game that I let him sit with his friends...I was quite skeptical that they would actually sit still and watch the game. Much to my amazement, their eyes were glued to the court. I was so very proud that he had chosen such nice friends consisting of four boys and three girls. Once the game was over, the crowd rushed the floor including his friends. I could see him standing at the end of the court trying to decide if he should go or not... he is quite the rule follower. (o: After a minute of watching the celebration, he decided that whatever trouble he might get in, would be worth it and so he joined the fun! Here is a picture that was on the Chronicle web page...Look bottom right corner...can you see the look of adoration as he gazes at the big Marion Giant?

Top Ten Weight Watchers Food

2008-03-18T05:31:00.000-07:00

These are the things I can't live without while doing Weight Watchers...

10. Kashi cereal with blueberries

9. Smart Ones broccoli alfredo

8. Fiber one bars

7. 100 calorie packs...

6. Deli Chicken

5. Oranges and red grapes (cold)

4. Oil and vinegar for my salads

3. Skinny Cow peanut butter and chocolate ice cream sandwiches

2. Laughing cow cheese wedges with All Bran Crackers

1. Coffee with non -fat creamer

The Caterpillar!

2008-03-17T10:00:00.000-07:00

Recently my student teacher who is in Switzerland wrote in her daily reflections to me about her Kindergarten class. During her creative writing lesson she was talking about all of the things sentences need. She asked the question, "what do all good sentences begin with?" An excited boy replied with..."caterpillar letters."

2008 Olympics

2008-03-16T22:42:00.000-07:00

The 2008 Olympics will be held in Beijing China as I am sure you well know this. While at Epcot in China, they had many items on display including these adorable mascots. Aren't they precious...I think I need a t-shirt with them on it. Each one of the five characters represent earthly elements...water, plants, fire, animals, and air. Check out the website for the 2008 Olympics to get more information on the friends. It seems as though pollution in Beijing has become quite an issue for the games. Apparently there is a runner from the U.S. who wouldn't go to China due to breathing issues from this problem. They are trying to get things cleaned up before the games begin. Hope so! Can't wait until they start!

GO USA!!! http://en.beijing2008.cn/

New Quilt for Guest Bedroom

2008-03-14T07:22:00.000-07:00

This is my latest purchase for our guest bedroom! I found it at Linens and Things and it was a bit too expensive for my cheapness...so I went to good old e-bay and couldn't believe that it was half the price as in the store! If you know me well, you know that I obsess over things and once I found this I was ready to get a second job to pay for it. You can only imagine my delight upon running accross this bargain!! Don't be mistaken that this is my house, it is just a picture off the website. Although I really like the little flowers on the night stand...actually I like the bed too! (o; The lesson here friends is to check your options before splurging!

Disney Kids Passport a Must

2008-03-13T09:50:00.000-07:00

This is extra super important information... if you plan to go to Epcot in the future with the kids please oh please purchase this passport. It looks very official just like a passport. My boys loved this experience. Each country has a Kidcot station which is staffed with a university student from that particular country. They stamp the passport from the country then also write a message in their language and chat with your child. The boys had many questions for the workers and were able to interact with someone from each country. It also includes stickers to place with photos of each country as well. I should get some free Disney tickets for this plug huh!!

Great cross cultural experience!

Dreams...Random Thoughts

2008-03-13T08:15:00.000-07:00

It has been said that dreams are the window to the soul. Is this true? I can't help wondering what releveance my dream of one of our very good friends being an espianage spy has to do with my soul? In my dream he was using very high tech machinery to bug our house and keep track of our every move. He became very paranoid in his quest to prove we were out to get him! Since then, I have a hard time looking at him the same. (o:

Have you ever had an emotional dream that actually puts you in a bad mood for the day? Or the dream where you are at work and wake up exhausted dreading actually going to work after already putting in your eight hours. How about the dream where a deceased family member visits you? I have heard that this is how they come to see us? I love when this happens! Does anyone have any thoughts on this? I often am reminded of a dream once I see something or someone during the day...that really is a strange feeling. My husband usually dreams the same dream of being in a plane crash...how depressing! My dreams tend to be colorful and very complicated with many different settings and people (not that I am saying I am complicated) including lots of twists and turns which are hard to reacall.

I can't help but being fascinated with dreams and how they can be interpreted. Do we in fact dream in color? Why is it that some people don't dream or remember their dreams? Do dogs dream? (Kidding)

Random Thoughts

The Whoopie Cushion

2008-03-11T08:42:00.001-07:00

Yesterday we had to go to Walgreens to get my second born's medicine after going to see Dr. Fox, by the way, he has an ear infection. Anyway, while waiting a few minutes for the Rx to be ready, of course we proceeded to the toy isle. The first born picked up this round item and said, "what is this"? I pondered briefly thinking should I or shouldn't I fill him in on the joy of the Whoopie cushion? I quickly thought through these scenarios in which I knew would unfold before my eyes and ears.... BIG MISTAKE...well then I proceeded to tell him of this wonderful devise. Then the fun began! They both had the best time ever in Walgreens...( I have to admit, so did I) The more he tested this out the funnier it became...he was literally sitting on the ground trying every position he could to make the recognizable sounds that the whoopie cushion can make! They were giggling so hard that they became weak! (as did I) I think I reverted back to my childhood...certain that everyone who walked past was thinking the same thing. first born is determined to save HIS money to make his next purchase at Walgreens. BOYS!!

All Seasons

2008-03-10T10:41:00.000-07:00

When considering a title for my blog, I kept going back to the world in which we live. The beauty of the word seasons means so many things. When asked what is my favorite season, different ones often come to mind first. I love them all! I think this is due to my indecisive nature (no pun intended) I am not able to come up with favorite things...this goes from favorite color (by the way I love color) to foods, movies, and songs. Does anyone else have these issues? I have come to the conclusion that "favorites" for me depend on my mood! When I am happy...pink...meloncoly and relaxed...hues of blue...get the point? I seem to be rambling! With that said, I am convinced that seasons are such a blessing for me...if I didn't have them, I would become quite bored with life, color and the pursuit of Happiness! (o: