Well, looks like we're doing weekly updates recently. It amazes me how fast the week goes by.
This was a good week, too. (Not that any week is ever 'bad', it's just a matter of perspective). Mike and I had several great workouts this week. We've been pushing ourselves harder and harder and it feels great. In the next couple weeks, we'll be focusing a lot more on cardio. Yet still doing weights and stuff too though...
The kids had another good week at school. Bethany had an assembly she went to today where 'Jonnie & Brookie' performed. She was pulled out of the audience and put up there to dance with them. She was loving that and they gave her a CD to take home with her because she participated....
Mike got his letter from Phoenix today, inviting him to his interview on the 19th of September! He made FIRST ROUND interviews this year! Last year he was in third round. I am so proud of him. And so now, the next few weeks will be all about reviewing his interview material and practice, practice, practice.
This weekend Mike has off! Yeay! So, we are going to be enjoying some family time this weekend.
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Friday, August 31, 2007
Monday, August 27, 2007
Milestone for Niko
Monday
105° / 82°
***********************************************************************
This morning was kind of a blah morning. I had a meeting at the school for Niko's speech at 7:30, then got all three kids off to school. And thus began every one's day...
Mike got to transport to Sedonia today at work, so that pretty much consumed his afternoon. He's the driver today also. When they get back in town, he'll still have to run even more calls as well. I'm sure he'll be pretty tiered when he gets home tonight.
When Niko got home from school, I took his training wheels off his bike. I know, I know- it's about time. But really, with the heat of summer, we really haven't been on the bikes too much in a while. But he did great. First shot at it, I pushed him for about five feet and he took off. I guess that's just the way Niko does things. He may take a while to start at something, but once he does start, there's no stopping him. I tend to remember a one year old little boy who took off walking across his Nana and Papa's floor the night of his first birthday. It then took him 5 more months to take one single step again and when he finally did decide to walk he was running within a couple days...Yep, same thing with the bike. I really think he has known how to do this for a LONG time now. It's just a matter of DOING it...Anyways, we're proud of him. Now he just needs to practice his turning and getting started on his own....Next thing on the list for him is tying his shoes.
Sunday 8/26
Today we went to church and the boys got hair cuts. And that was about it...Oh, and we watched The Preacher's Wife this afternoon and Bethany and I balled our eyes out.
The hair cut was a big deal for Matthew considering the shag he had. He looks like a new boy now...
The hair cut was a big deal for Matthew considering the shag he had. He looks like a new boy now...
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Saturday Give-a-way
Saturday
99° / 80°
***********************************************************
Today started at 3:30 am for me, calming the dog from the thunderstorm that rumbled outside that ran through the morning. It was still raining by the time the rest of the house was up and moving, which concerned us as we looked at our plans for the day. But they all worked out in the end, so no worries there.
We ran to the store and did some grocery shopping and then headed over to the new hospital up the street that was having an open house. We took a tour of the hospital, which by the way is absolutely amazing, all high tech, with digital and high definition everything-from x-rays to operating rooms. MRI machines that take 15 minutes to do rather than the typical 45 min. The digital x-rays in the ER will alleviate waiting times with instant images and no need for developing film and all. Amazing stuff and a beautiful place...After the tour, we saw all the different booths from the different departments and collected a bunch of fun stuff. The kids got their faces painted and got some balloons from a clown. Then we ate a delicious complimentary bbq lunch. It was a long morning but fun...
For dinner, we took advantage of Papa John's customer appreciation day and got our free med pizza...Like I said, today was free-bee give-a-way day...
Fun, fun.
99° / 80°
***********************************************************
Today started at 3:30 am for me, calming the dog from the thunderstorm that rumbled outside that ran through the morning. It was still raining by the time the rest of the house was up and moving, which concerned us as we looked at our plans for the day. But they all worked out in the end, so no worries there.
We ran to the store and did some grocery shopping and then headed over to the new hospital up the street that was having an open house. We took a tour of the hospital, which by the way is absolutely amazing, all high tech, with digital and high definition everything-from x-rays to operating rooms. MRI machines that take 15 minutes to do rather than the typical 45 min. The digital x-rays in the ER will alleviate waiting times with instant images and no need for developing film and all. Amazing stuff and a beautiful place...After the tour, we saw all the different booths from the different departments and collected a bunch of fun stuff. The kids got their faces painted and got some balloons from a clown. Then we ate a delicious complimentary bbq lunch. It was a long morning but fun...
For dinner, we took advantage of Papa John's customer appreciation day and got our free med pizza...Like I said, today was free-bee give-a-way day...
Fun, fun.
Friday, August 24, 2007
8/24/2007- Photo of the Day
"Teamwork"
The boys were playing together so peacefully, quietly and intently this afternoon. It was a moment worth sharing.
This week
Friday
108° / 80°
******************************************
I was reminded by a dear person yesterday, that we have not updated our blog all week. Our apologies...Not to make excuses, but it was a pretty busy week. And I guess that's not an excuse at all, because that means we had plenty to write about.
Anywho...let's see...the Durango was in the shop this week getting a new starter-yeay! So we were a one-truck family. Not too horrible really...
Monday night, our friends had their little baby, Ian. We are very happy for them and so glad that he was able to come before mommy needed another c-section. Ian joins his big brother Isaac.
Wednesday night was curriculum night at the school. So I took the troop and got all the information on what they'll all be learning this year and how and when. Fun stuff. They are both blessed with some really mature and experienced teachers this year...
Also Wednesday, I got my "Thanks but no thanks" letter from Gilbert for the telecommunicator job. They said to feel free to reapply, so you bet I will...I faxed my resume over to a dental office that our friend works for. and they called me back for an interview on Thursday for a dental assistant her in Gilbert.
So, Thursday, after Mike and I worked out and got him to work, I went to that interview. It seemed to go okay. I really liked everyone at the office. So we'll be finding out here soon about that venture as well. That would be 3-4 days a week...While I was there, Matthew stayed with a good friend of ours who started an in-home daycare just this week. We have known this family since we moved here. Her two girls have been our babysitter since Niko was born. They are awesome and if I do get a job sometime here, she has offered to watch him. That is such a blessing and truly a weight lifted off in that regard. Amazing how God always has all the details worked out and always has things in the works that will eventually all come together...
So, I'm still filling out applications for several different things. But that's what's going on now. Mike still hasn't got his letter from Phoenix, although we'll let you all know when he does. He has a Mesa test coming up here, as well as Chandler...
That's pretty much the highlights from our week.
108° / 80°
******************************************
I was reminded by a dear person yesterday, that we have not updated our blog all week. Our apologies...Not to make excuses, but it was a pretty busy week. And I guess that's not an excuse at all, because that means we had plenty to write about.
Anywho...let's see...the Durango was in the shop this week getting a new starter-yeay! So we were a one-truck family. Not too horrible really...
Monday night, our friends had their little baby, Ian. We are very happy for them and so glad that he was able to come before mommy needed another c-section. Ian joins his big brother Isaac.
Wednesday night was curriculum night at the school. So I took the troop and got all the information on what they'll all be learning this year and how and when. Fun stuff. They are both blessed with some really mature and experienced teachers this year...
Also Wednesday, I got my "Thanks but no thanks" letter from Gilbert for the telecommunicator job. They said to feel free to reapply, so you bet I will...I faxed my resume over to a dental office that our friend works for. and they called me back for an interview on Thursday for a dental assistant her in Gilbert.
So, Thursday, after Mike and I worked out and got him to work, I went to that interview. It seemed to go okay. I really liked everyone at the office. So we'll be finding out here soon about that venture as well. That would be 3-4 days a week...While I was there, Matthew stayed with a good friend of ours who started an in-home daycare just this week. We have known this family since we moved here. Her two girls have been our babysitter since Niko was born. They are awesome and if I do get a job sometime here, she has offered to watch him. That is such a blessing and truly a weight lifted off in that regard. Amazing how God always has all the details worked out and always has things in the works that will eventually all come together...
So, I'm still filling out applications for several different things. But that's what's going on now. Mike still hasn't got his letter from Phoenix, although we'll let you all know when he does. He has a Mesa test coming up here, as well as Chandler...
That's pretty much the highlights from our week.
Monday, August 20, 2007
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Shin-Dig
Sunday
107° / 85°
********************************************
Right now, a nice dust storm has blown in and lightening and thunder is brewing some suspected rain..
It was a great day though, again...Started our day off by being able to go to church as a family. We got home and started getting ready for the shin-dig Mike planned for my birthday. At 2:00 people started coming and we got the bbq going. Mike almost caught the house on fire with all the grease that was dripping off those burgers (lesson learned on budget bbq-ing) But hey, everybody got fed, right? The sides and dips and drinks everyone contributed, were awesome and really saved the meal. I appreciated EVERYONE that came and stopped by. It was a great way to celebrate the coming of this next decade in my life. Glad all the celebrating is over, now onto other things...
And, of course, PHOTOS
107° / 85°
********************************************
Right now, a nice dust storm has blown in and lightening and thunder is brewing some suspected rain..
It was a great day though, again...Started our day off by being able to go to church as a family. We got home and started getting ready for the shin-dig Mike planned for my birthday. At 2:00 people started coming and we got the bbq going. Mike almost caught the house on fire with all the grease that was dripping off those burgers (lesson learned on budget bbq-ing) But hey, everybody got fed, right? The sides and dips and drinks everyone contributed, were awesome and really saved the meal. I appreciated EVERYONE that came and stopped by. It was a great way to celebrate the coming of this next decade in my life. Glad all the celebrating is over, now onto other things...
And, of course, PHOTOS
Saturday, August 18, 2007
End of School Week 2
This week has been so busy.
Thursday, I guess the excitement was that I took the telecommunicator test. It had several different sections on it and my feeling is that it could go either way as to how I did on it. We should be finding out in the next two weeks though and we'll let you all know either way.
So, yesterday, the kids finished up a great week at school. Yesterday (Friday) Mike and I went to Deep Water and then got some grocery shopping done- nothing too exciting there...And then last night, Bethany went to a High School Musical 2 party at one of her classmates. I'm told this movie is like the new 'Grease'. Pretty big deal. So they had a lot of fun with all that last night...Last night I had girls night out and went to play Bunko. It was a lot of fun and good to get out with the gals....And then Mike had a boys night with Matthew and Niko. Good Friday night.
Yesterday was also pretty exciting because, it's official, we've got our tickets for Hawaii for January! My side of the family is all getting together over there next year. So it will be my dad and Kristi and ALL six of the kids, spouses/significant others and grandkids. We are so looking froward to this, mostly because it is getting rarer and rarer for us all to be in one location at the same time and it's always great times when we are all together.
Today, we are doing Saturday stuff- Yard work, cleaning the house, laundry...We have a house warming party to go to later this afternoon and then Niko has a Birthday Party to go to for one of his classmates this evening. Busy, fun-filled day.
Thursday, I guess the excitement was that I took the telecommunicator test. It had several different sections on it and my feeling is that it could go either way as to how I did on it. We should be finding out in the next two weeks though and we'll let you all know either way.
So, yesterday, the kids finished up a great week at school. Yesterday (Friday) Mike and I went to Deep Water and then got some grocery shopping done- nothing too exciting there...And then last night, Bethany went to a High School Musical 2 party at one of her classmates. I'm told this movie is like the new 'Grease'. Pretty big deal. So they had a lot of fun with all that last night...Last night I had girls night out and went to play Bunko. It was a lot of fun and good to get out with the gals....And then Mike had a boys night with Matthew and Niko. Good Friday night.
Yesterday was also pretty exciting because, it's official, we've got our tickets for Hawaii for January! My side of the family is all getting together over there next year. So it will be my dad and Kristi and ALL six of the kids, spouses/significant others and grandkids. We are so looking froward to this, mostly because it is getting rarer and rarer for us all to be in one location at the same time and it's always great times when we are all together.
Today, we are doing Saturday stuff- Yard work, cleaning the house, laundry...We have a house warming party to go to later this afternoon and then Niko has a Birthday Party to go to for one of his classmates this evening. Busy, fun-filled day.
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Hm-Something happened today?
Wednesday
108° / 82°
**********************************************************
Today, thirty years ago, I was born...
(those three dots represent a life of wonderful memories, challenges to grow through, and too many blessings to note. A life of God's grace and goodness-all that in three little dots)
So, it's so long 20's, hello 30's, it's not as bad as anticipated
Anyways, It's been a good day full of wonderful wishes from friends and family. Mike and I went to breakfast this morning at The Good Egg after we got all the kids to school. Then it was a pretty low-key day. Other than mowing the lawn this evening and chatting on the phone the majority of the day....
The kids took the bus home for the first time this year. They did good and made it home in one piece.
Tomorrow morning is the telecommunicator test from 6-9 am. Let you know how that goes.
108° / 82°
**********************************************************
Today, thirty years ago, I was born...
(those three dots represent a life of wonderful memories, challenges to grow through, and too many blessings to note. A life of God's grace and goodness-all that in three little dots)
So, it's so long 20's, hello 30's, it's not as bad as anticipated
Anyways, It's been a good day full of wonderful wishes from friends and family. Mike and I went to breakfast this morning at The Good Egg after we got all the kids to school. Then it was a pretty low-key day. Other than mowing the lawn this evening and chatting on the phone the majority of the day....
The kids took the bus home for the first time this year. They did good and made it home in one piece.
Tomorrow morning is the telecommunicator test from 6-9 am. Let you know how that goes.
Tuesday, 8/14
Today was cooler...about 110...Huge storm Monday night that dumped a TON of rain too.
Check out the flooding at NAU in this slide show and this news article/broadcast...pretty messy. This was way up north, but still.
Kids had their awards and promotion ceremonies this evening. We were proud of them.
Bethany received a blue pom, which is two levels above where she's at. And she received a medal for perfect attendance. Her performance was very cute and she had a great time doing it. She worked hard and did fantastic. VIDEO
Niko received a yellow belt. He did a presentation on the things that they had learned this session. Actually all color belts were part of their presentation and we got to see demonstrations from all levels. it was really cool to see how they build on each other. Niko did well, and is excited about continuing to learn the skills in this level, including focus and discipline. VIDEO
And here are a couple photos from this evening as well.
It was a late night for everyone, but a good night too. Mike came home and surprised me with an early birthday rose. It's so soft and pretty. Such a sweetheart!
Check out the flooding at NAU in this slide show and this news article/broadcast...pretty messy. This was way up north, but still.
Kids had their awards and promotion ceremonies this evening. We were proud of them.
Bethany received a blue pom, which is two levels above where she's at. And she received a medal for perfect attendance. Her performance was very cute and she had a great time doing it. She worked hard and did fantastic. VIDEO
Niko received a yellow belt. He did a presentation on the things that they had learned this session. Actually all color belts were part of their presentation and we got to see demonstrations from all levels. it was really cool to see how they build on each other. Niko did well, and is excited about continuing to learn the skills in this level, including focus and discipline. VIDEO
And here are a couple photos from this evening as well.
It was a late night for everyone, but a good night too. Mike came home and surprised me with an early birthday rose. It's so soft and pretty. Such a sweetheart!
Monday, August 13, 2007
Only Monday?
Monday
112° / 88°
*********************************
Oh, Gosh, is it only Monday?!?...It seems like we should be much further along in this week than that.
Well, yesterday I didn't get a post up. Pretty much we went to church. We had a special service to kind of bless and commission our new worship/youth pastor and his family and pray over them and for them and for our church. After that we had a lunch reception to celebrate all that. It was a great time. And a good day too...And we had a record daily high of 114-woo-hoo
So, today we were back into our weekly routine. The kids were off to school and had a great day. they actually came home with homework today. So that was a nice surprise. Mike and I went to deep water aerobics this morning and busted our butts off. Ran some errands...And now we are just enjoying our evening. Gearing up for another day tomorrow. May go out and mow the lawn here after the sun sinks a little lower...
Bethany and Niko are going to attempt to take the bus to school in the morning. If all goes well, they will be taking it to school on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, still getting picked up after school though.
112° / 88°
*********************************
Oh, Gosh, is it only Monday?!?...It seems like we should be much further along in this week than that.
Well, yesterday I didn't get a post up. Pretty much we went to church. We had a special service to kind of bless and commission our new worship/youth pastor and his family and pray over them and for them and for our church. After that we had a lunch reception to celebrate all that. It was a great time. And a good day too...And we had a record daily high of 114-woo-hoo
So, today we were back into our weekly routine. The kids were off to school and had a great day. they actually came home with homework today. So that was a nice surprise. Mike and I went to deep water aerobics this morning and busted our butts off. Ran some errands...And now we are just enjoying our evening. Gearing up for another day tomorrow. May go out and mow the lawn here after the sun sinks a little lower...
Bethany and Niko are going to attempt to take the bus to school in the morning. If all goes well, they will be taking it to school on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, still getting picked up after school though.
Sunday, August 12, 2007
8/11/2007
Today was pretty low-key. We just played around the house. The kids played basketball (note POTD) and played outside. I worked a while and Mike was at work today too. His relief showed up two hours early though and he was able to spend more time with us this evening than we had expected. That was a nice surprise. Pretty hot today-but what else do you expect in the middle of the desert mid-summer.
Mike got a letter from Phoenix. It stated his written test score of 81. Although this is not as well as he had hoped for this time around, it is still an improvement from last year's written test score, and typically qualifies for the second round interviews, rather than third round, which is where he was at last year. I am proud of him. He also did the best he's ever done on the CPAT with over a minute left on the clock. So, so far in this time around, he's improved in both areas. Now we just wait again for the interview invite letter to find out when that will be...On a side note though, Mike heard it through the grapevine that this past hire they just did in June, the one he interviewed for and is on the eligibility list for still, even though they made all the initial phone calls, it's rumored that they did not get enough off of that after all the physicals and backgrounds and all were said and done. They may be making more phone calls off of that list again. So, we'll see. Not banking on it, but it's still a possibility. So fun updates with all of this stuff...
I got my test date for the telecommunicator. It's this Thursday, the 16th from 6-9 am. So, maybe, being that I'll be 30 then, I'll be a bit smarter and have an advantage over if I had taken it on Tuesday when I would still be 29-haha, that's a stretch, isn't it?
Mike got a letter from Phoenix. It stated his written test score of 81. Although this is not as well as he had hoped for this time around, it is still an improvement from last year's written test score, and typically qualifies for the second round interviews, rather than third round, which is where he was at last year. I am proud of him. He also did the best he's ever done on the CPAT with over a minute left on the clock. So, so far in this time around, he's improved in both areas. Now we just wait again for the interview invite letter to find out when that will be...On a side note though, Mike heard it through the grapevine that this past hire they just did in June, the one he interviewed for and is on the eligibility list for still, even though they made all the initial phone calls, it's rumored that they did not get enough off of that after all the physicals and backgrounds and all were said and done. They may be making more phone calls off of that list again. So, we'll see. Not banking on it, but it's still a possibility. So fun updates with all of this stuff...
I got my test date for the telecommunicator. It's this Thursday, the 16th from 6-9 am. So, maybe, being that I'll be 30 then, I'll be a bit smarter and have an advantage over if I had taken it on Tuesday when I would still be 29-haha, that's a stretch, isn't it?
Saturday, August 11, 2007
Friday, August 10, 2007
Where do babies come from?
Matthew and I had a very cute conversation today that I had to share with you all.
He is very excited about going to school with Isaac, a little boy in our home group. They are in separate classes and so it's a big deal fro Matthew when he sees him. Isaac's Mom is VERY pregnant, due this Wednesday the 15th...
So, I picked up Matthew from school today and this is the dialogue in the truck on the way home...
Matthew: Mommy, I saw Isaac today outside
Me: Oh, on the playground?
Matthew: No, with Miss Lauren. He go on bus
Me: Yep, he does.
Matthew: Why his mommy not pick him up?
Me: Because she is tiered. She has a baby in her tummy, remember, and she needs to rest.
Matthew: Why she have a baby in her tummy? Did she eat it?
HAHA...he was serious, not being silly, and he was just so puzzled. The way their little heads work...I went on to tell him that, no, she did not eat a baby. He asked, well, why did she have a baby in her tummy then? And I answered because Isaac's mommy and daddy wanted to have a little brother for him and so his baby brother is growing inside his mommy....I guess that really didn't answer his question and I probably completely missed an opportunity for some subliminal education here, but it satisfied his inquiry for the time being...
Maybe I should have been more specific, She has a baby growing in her uterus...But that may have confused him even more so?
Anyhow, I thought it was pretty funny and wanted to share with you all.
By the way, I got a phone call from the Town of Gilbert today. I passed both portions of the 911 and telecommunicator test from last week. They want me to come in for the next portion of the process and do a more hands-on test for the telecommunicator position (the higher paying, more difficult position). So we'll see. I'm really nervous about this, so we'll see what the results are. We'll keep you posted.
He is very excited about going to school with Isaac, a little boy in our home group. They are in separate classes and so it's a big deal fro Matthew when he sees him. Isaac's Mom is VERY pregnant, due this Wednesday the 15th...
So, I picked up Matthew from school today and this is the dialogue in the truck on the way home...
Matthew: Mommy, I saw Isaac today outside
Me: Oh, on the playground?
Matthew: No, with Miss Lauren. He go on bus
Me: Yep, he does.
Matthew: Why his mommy not pick him up?
Me: Because she is tiered. She has a baby in her tummy, remember, and she needs to rest.
Matthew: Why she have a baby in her tummy? Did she eat it?
HAHA...he was serious, not being silly, and he was just so puzzled. The way their little heads work...I went on to tell him that, no, she did not eat a baby. He asked, well, why did she have a baby in her tummy then? And I answered because Isaac's mommy and daddy wanted to have a little brother for him and so his baby brother is growing inside his mommy....I guess that really didn't answer his question and I probably completely missed an opportunity for some subliminal education here, but it satisfied his inquiry for the time being...
Maybe I should have been more specific, She has a baby growing in her uterus...But that may have confused him even more so?
Anyhow, I thought it was pretty funny and wanted to share with you all.
By the way, I got a phone call from the Town of Gilbert today. I passed both portions of the 911 and telecommunicator test from last week. They want me to come in for the next portion of the process and do a more hands-on test for the telecommunicator position (the higher paying, more difficult position). So we'll see. I'm really nervous about this, so we'll see what the results are. We'll keep you posted.
Thursday, August 9, 2007
First Sick Day
Thursday
107° / 84°
****************************************************
Today started off good. Got the kids off to school, got home and Mike was just on his way out the door when the phone rang. Bethany had thrown up while getting in line to go in to the classroom. I felt so bad for her. How embarrassing for her! On the third day of school, no less. Kids just don't forget that stuff...
Anyhow, she's feeling much better now. Not much else going on today. Debating whether or not to go to home group tonight, with Bethany and all. But other than that, not a whole lot going on.
107° / 84°
****************************************************
Today started off good. Got the kids off to school, got home and Mike was just on his way out the door when the phone rang. Bethany had thrown up while getting in line to go in to the classroom. I felt so bad for her. How embarrassing for her! On the third day of school, no less. Kids just don't forget that stuff...
Anyhow, she's feeling much better now. Not much else going on today. Debating whether or not to go to home group tonight, with Bethany and all. But other than that, not a whole lot going on.
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
Freedom
Wednesday
105° / 80°
********************************************************
This morning, Matthew went to his first day of Preschool. He will be going M-W-F mornings. Last year he went in the afternoon, but Niko was going to Kindergarten in the morning, so we never really had ALL of them in school at the same time. Today was the first day that they were all sent off to school. Mike and I took advantage of our 'freedom' and went to the gym, without having to worry about checking everyone into childcare. Then we went and got a coffee after our water aerobics class. It was kind of cool.
Matthew did very well in his class, according to him and his teacher. Hopefully it will be the start of a good trend...He will start taking the bus to school on Friday. He is pretty excited about that. I will still be picking him up for the time being though.
For his First Day of School photos, click on the photos from yesterday and they have been added to that album.
Still no homework for the other two tonight, so we are going to go on a bike ride to the dog park a little later after dinner and after it cools off a bit (notice the temps jumped again into the triple digits, just like that)
105° / 80°
********************************************************
This morning, Matthew went to his first day of Preschool. He will be going M-W-F mornings. Last year he went in the afternoon, but Niko was going to Kindergarten in the morning, so we never really had ALL of them in school at the same time. Today was the first day that they were all sent off to school. Mike and I took advantage of our 'freedom' and went to the gym, without having to worry about checking everyone into childcare. Then we went and got a coffee after our water aerobics class. It was kind of cool.
Matthew did very well in his class, according to him and his teacher. Hopefully it will be the start of a good trend...He will start taking the bus to school on Friday. He is pretty excited about that. I will still be picking him up for the time being though.
For his First Day of School photos, click on the photos from yesterday and they have been added to that album.
Still no homework for the other two tonight, so we are going to go on a bike ride to the dog park a little later after dinner and after it cools off a bit (notice the temps jumped again into the triple digits, just like that)
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
Back To School
Tuesday
97° / 77°
*********************************************************
This morning the two older ones were off to school. They did great and we're hoping that their day will go well. Can't wait to hear all about it this afternoon.
Here are some photos from this morning.
Update: The day went well. They found each other at recess and after school. When I picked them up, they came out of the gate holding each other's hands, like they were taking care of one another, making sure they got to where they needed to be. They met a few kids in their class, too, that they look forward to getting to know better.
They still went to Cheer and Karate tonight. Tonight was the big night for testing and trying out for the next levels. I like this organization because they emphasize that the new color belt or new color pom (both signs of advancement) cannot be bought, they need to be earned by developing their skills. So, next week is their presentations and then they receive their awards after. Everyone will get a certificate, only the ones that passed will receive a new belt or pom. So we'll find out the results of tonight's testings, next week. They have both had a lot of fun this summer doing this and they hope to continue on into the fall...
97° / 77°
*********************************************************
This morning the two older ones were off to school. They did great and we're hoping that their day will go well. Can't wait to hear all about it this afternoon.
Here are some photos from this morning.
Update: The day went well. They found each other at recess and after school. When I picked them up, they came out of the gate holding each other's hands, like they were taking care of one another, making sure they got to where they needed to be. They met a few kids in their class, too, that they look forward to getting to know better.
They still went to Cheer and Karate tonight. Tonight was the big night for testing and trying out for the next levels. I like this organization because they emphasize that the new color belt or new color pom (both signs of advancement) cannot be bought, they need to be earned by developing their skills. So, next week is their presentations and then they receive their awards after. Everyone will get a certificate, only the ones that passed will receive a new belt or pom. So we'll find out the results of tonight's testings, next week. They have both had a lot of fun this summer doing this and they hope to continue on into the fall...
Monday, August 6, 2007
Meet the Teacher
Today has been a long last day of summer. We made our last trip to the library for the summer. We will now be changing our Monday library day to Friday afternoon.
The kids all got to meet their teachers this afternoon and check out their new classes. Matthew has a new teacher this year, but he'll meet her tomorrow. Niko's teacher's name is Ms. Clayton. We were told she is pretty strict and doesn't mess around. But after meeting her, she seems to have a nice side too. So that's good. Bethany's teacher's name is Ms. Bryant. Sounds like she's going to have a fun year too...
After meeting the teachers, we got our class supply list of the things we need and headed to Wally-World. That place was insane to say the least. Niko got ran over by a cart and fell headfirst into a box. The lady had one of those infant seats on the cart and couldn't see over it and literally, just ran him over. He's fine now, but that place just had too many people there.
Anyhow...We just ate dinner, now we're winding down here.
The kids all got to meet their teachers this afternoon and check out their new classes. Matthew has a new teacher this year, but he'll meet her tomorrow. Niko's teacher's name is Ms. Clayton. We were told she is pretty strict and doesn't mess around. But after meeting her, she seems to have a nice side too. So that's good. Bethany's teacher's name is Ms. Bryant. Sounds like she's going to have a fun year too...
After meeting the teachers, we got our class supply list of the things we need and headed to Wally-World. That place was insane to say the least. Niko got ran over by a cart and fell headfirst into a box. The lady had one of those infant seats on the cart and couldn't see over it and literally, just ran him over. He's fine now, but that place just had too many people there.
Anyhow...We just ate dinner, now we're winding down here.
Sunday, August 5, 2007
8/05/2007- church
Sunday
97° / 78°
********************************************************
It's still been gloomy and rainy and muggy. It's great!
We went to church this morning, got there late, as usual. The sermon was on Blessed are the peacemakers and what is means to be a peacemaker. Pastor Bob mentioned "out-loving" a spouse in a marriage relationship. I really liked that perspective. Having the goal to out-love the other...Also talked about passive, assertive, and aggressive communication. Passive, being that you never want to cause waves to the point that you tiptoe around issues and beat around the bush and never address the real issue. Aggressive communication would be when you kind of vomit everything out carelessly often attacking the character of individuals without attacking the problem, often excusing it by saying, "well, it's the truth. I'm just saying the way things are". And then there's assertive communication where the truth is always spoke in love. The issue is addressed in love and with proper motivation, not to tear down, but to bring peace. And then within assertive communication there are two ends, crossing those two ends would take you into passive or aggressive. We want to remain in assertive...Anyhow, he said it better, but I thought it was good stuff.
Also, I wanted to share really quick a funny that happened at church, too. The kids and I went up to get communion. At our church, it is optional if the kids take it or not and if they don't then the pastor and a few other people will pray for the kids instead. Our boys do not receive it yet. So it's a pretty quiet and somber atmosphere as everyone is going through this process. I am holding Matthew as he's being prayed for. He does NOT know the meaning of whisper, mind you. And he says, "Mommy, I have to go poop." I whisper,"Hush, we're praying" and he says it again, LOUDER, "Mommy, I have to go poop!" It was so funny. It was just such an inappropriate time and so blunt...I had to laugh. Obviously they finished quickly and then I went to dip my bread in the wine and lost the whole thing in the cup. It was a disaster. Us Clesceri's don't know the meaning of discrete, I guess. Anywho...
We got home and had our Sunday pancakes, went to the store to get lunch items for this week, and now we going to watch Funny Farm and getting ready for a big week ahead of us...Not too exciting today, but still a good day nonetheless.
97° / 78°
********************************************************
It's still been gloomy and rainy and muggy. It's great!
We went to church this morning, got there late, as usual. The sermon was on Blessed are the peacemakers and what is means to be a peacemaker. Pastor Bob mentioned "out-loving" a spouse in a marriage relationship. I really liked that perspective. Having the goal to out-love the other...Also talked about passive, assertive, and aggressive communication. Passive, being that you never want to cause waves to the point that you tiptoe around issues and beat around the bush and never address the real issue. Aggressive communication would be when you kind of vomit everything out carelessly often attacking the character of individuals without attacking the problem, often excusing it by saying, "well, it's the truth. I'm just saying the way things are". And then there's assertive communication where the truth is always spoke in love. The issue is addressed in love and with proper motivation, not to tear down, but to bring peace. And then within assertive communication there are two ends, crossing those two ends would take you into passive or aggressive. We want to remain in assertive...Anyhow, he said it better, but I thought it was good stuff.
Also, I wanted to share really quick a funny that happened at church, too. The kids and I went up to get communion. At our church, it is optional if the kids take it or not and if they don't then the pastor and a few other people will pray for the kids instead. Our boys do not receive it yet. So it's a pretty quiet and somber atmosphere as everyone is going through this process. I am holding Matthew as he's being prayed for. He does NOT know the meaning of whisper, mind you. And he says, "Mommy, I have to go poop." I whisper,"Hush, we're praying" and he says it again, LOUDER, "Mommy, I have to go poop!" It was so funny. It was just such an inappropriate time and so blunt...I had to laugh. Obviously they finished quickly and then I went to dip my bread in the wine and lost the whole thing in the cup. It was a disaster. Us Clesceri's don't know the meaning of discrete, I guess. Anywho...
We got home and had our Sunday pancakes, went to the store to get lunch items for this week, and now we going to watch Funny Farm and getting ready for a big week ahead of us...Not too exciting today, but still a good day nonetheless.
Saturday, August 4, 2007
8/03/07- Shopping!
Well, it's that time again. School starts on Tuesday, so we were out today, finding gym shoes and a couple outfits to get started on the new school year. We were able to actually find some awesome deals. Still have a bit more to do, but got the majority of the important stuff out of the way.
It was so much more involved this year, than in years past. We have a daughter that loves to shop. We both hate to. We're usually, let's get what we need and go. Bethany loves to take her time, look at everything and everywhere. She just really enjoys the whole experience. And she's at that age where she does need to start trying things on to make sure they fit and all (but, i think she also has fun doing it). No more holding things up on the hangers, seeing if they look good together, throwing them in the stroller and going. We have to go through the whole, count your items, get a tag, try things on, and then figure out which things we like best and what we need from there- Yuck, what a pain. Oh well...we got great deals and we had fun, some of us more so than others, though.
It was so much more involved this year, than in years past. We have a daughter that loves to shop. We both hate to. We're usually, let's get what we need and go. Bethany loves to take her time, look at everything and everywhere. She just really enjoys the whole experience. And she's at that age where she does need to start trying things on to make sure they fit and all (but, i think she also has fun doing it). No more holding things up on the hangers, seeing if they look good together, throwing them in the stroller and going. We have to go through the whole, count your items, get a tag, try things on, and then figure out which things we like best and what we need from there- Yuck, what a pain. Oh well...we got great deals and we had fun, some of us more so than others, though.
8/02/2007- Where the Wild Things Are.
Today we went to the zoo. We went early to beat the heat and actually the animals were a bit more social at that time as well. It was still incredibly muggy though, but it was great to be able to take our time and see a lot of the animals. After visiting the animals, we played in the water lagoon, then headed to the "Snow White" tree house, then took a ride on the carousel. It was great family time.
This afternoon I took my test for 911 Operator/Police Telicommunicator for the Town of Gilbert. We'll find out the results within two weeks and then move on in the process, if I pass. Pretty exciting.
Click here for some photos of our trip to the zoo today. Mike used his cell phone to take a lot of the photos. But they are surprisingly clear, at that.
This afternoon I took my test for 911 Operator/Police Telicommunicator for the Town of Gilbert. We'll find out the results within two weeks and then move on in the process, if I pass. Pretty exciting.
Click here for some photos of our trip to the zoo today. Mike used his cell phone to take a lot of the photos. But they are surprisingly clear, at that.
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
Let's Go Bowling!
Today's Weather
Wednesday
96° / 77°
****************************************************
HAPPY AUGUST!!!
Today was stormy, again...But Mike and I managed to get to our water aerobics class this morning at the YMCA. It's been a while, but it was good to be back in the class and having fun again. Not that working out in the gym isn't fun, but it was good to see all the ladies and few guys again...AND it was a great workout, so you can have you cake and eat it too...Man, my arms are sore right now.
Anyhow, this afternoon I took the kids bowling. They had a great time. They did pretty well too. It was funny to see them each with their own style. They took about an hour to bowl one game. Mostly because it took so long for the ball to roll down the ally. We'll have to start going as a family more...Click here for some photos....And the following names for video. Try to listen to the kids comments too. Some of them are pretty cute. Can you believe they were actually rooting for each other at times? WOW..
Bethany- HERE and HERE and HERE
Niko- HERE and HERE and HERE
Matthew HERE and HERE
Wednesday
96° / 77°
****************************************************
HAPPY AUGUST!!!
Today was stormy, again...But Mike and I managed to get to our water aerobics class this morning at the YMCA. It's been a while, but it was good to be back in the class and having fun again. Not that working out in the gym isn't fun, but it was good to see all the ladies and few guys again...AND it was a great workout, so you can have you cake and eat it too...Man, my arms are sore right now.
Anyhow, this afternoon I took the kids bowling. They had a great time. They did pretty well too. It was funny to see them each with their own style. They took about an hour to bowl one game. Mostly because it took so long for the ball to roll down the ally. We'll have to start going as a family more...Click here for some photos....And the following names for video. Try to listen to the kids comments too. Some of them are pretty cute. Can you believe they were actually rooting for each other at times? WOW..
Bethany- HERE and HERE and HERE
Niko- HERE and HERE and HERE
Matthew HERE and HERE
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