2007; A year in review

3rd year I have done this. I like looking back and seeing them.

What did you do in 2007 that you've never done before?
Start a contact sport... Rollerderby!!

Did you keep your New Year's resolutions and will you make more for next year?
My only resolution was not to have any, and I kept that. I am going to stick with that one. Same as last year...

Did anyone close to you give birth?
Yes, Ryan did, i.e. Pro!

Did anyone close to you die?
No. And that means it was a good year. 3 year in a row, can't beat that.

What countries did you visit?
None.

What would you like to have in 2008 that you lacked in 2007?
After graduation, a awesome job that I love!

What date from 2007 will remain etched in your memory and why?
I believe July 2 or close to it, which is when I officially got on league.

What was your biggest achievement of the year?
Straight A's for the second year in a row. And getting on league.

What was your biggest failure?
hmm, I don't know of anything that was failed that i didn't choose to end. Same as last year.

Did you suffer illness or injury?
minor bruises and small sprained wrist, minor illnesses...again good year. 3 years running...woo hoo!!

What was the best thing you bought?
rollerskates

Where did most of your money go?
other than bills, probably derby stuff.

What did you get really, really, really excited about?
derby

What scripture is a theme of 2007?
James 1: 2-4 "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." Same as last year.

Compared to this time last year are you:
a. Happier or sadder? I am just as happy.
b. Thinner or fatter? exact same, but more muscle.
c. Richer or poorer? richer, Steven got a teaching job.
What do you wish you'd done more of?
Always spend more time with my family.

What do you wish you'd done less of?
time on the computer.

How did you spend Christmas?
With my family!!! Baking cookies and cakes, spending time with my family and just relaxing staying in my pj's. I loved it. Again same as last year.

Did you fall in love in 2007?
Stayed in love.

What was your favorite TV show?
Heroes the only one I really watched I guess, maybe some intervention

What was the best book you read?
Narnia

What was your greatest musical discovery of 2007?
Myself on karaoke, lol.

What did you want and get?
to get on league. And a minivan.

What did you want and not get?
hmm, nothing I guess.

What was your favorite film this year?
August Rush

What did you do on your birthday?
ate a cookie cake and went to class I think, it wasn't very memorable.

What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
Maybe a better birthday now that it is brought up. Getting to see more of my family more often.

How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2007?
Comfy but trendy. Still the same.

What kept you sane?
Alone time an sleep and massages. And to add, derby.

Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?
Other than Clive Owen, none.

What political issue stirred you the most?
Candidates and their agendas

Who did you miss?
Still the same, my friends from home, and family.

Who was the best new person you met?
I met several great women.

Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2007.
If there is something you want to do or try, do it. You don't want to look back on your life when your old and regret not getting on that bull!

Quote a song lyric that sums up your year.
"I'm in a hurry to get things done, I rush and rush until life's no fun. All I really gotta do is live and die, but I'm in a hurry and don't know why."

Christmas pics

Upon Waking...







With their gifts...

















We had lots more, but didn't want to overcrowd the blog...

Don't laugh

K, well I debated on whether or not to blog this as it tops my embarassing moments in the life of me. As you can see I need to spread my embarassment in order to balance out whatever anger or resentment my voodoo doll holder has against me.

So me and the fam decide to go bowling tonight. First time we have gone as a family ever. We have been playing with presents and card games and what not and decide a change of venue would be nice.

So we get there and get our shoes and what not, and the first 10 minutes includes me chasing Ryker up and down the area of pool tables and arcade games, waiting on the others to get ready. I have enough and ask Steven to get the stroller from the car as Ryker was literally fighting me everytime I try to corral him. Wasn't planning on doing that longer than I had to. So I get him buckled in and Gage is first at bat... or bowl... or whatever. Steven makes the mistake of just saying, just throw it!!! And what does Gage do but throws it... in a lane not ours or anyones. I yell, "NO" and chase the ball assuming that since it is closed down that the ball won't come back. I wasn't thinking, no time really. So I chase it and as soon as I cross that line on the lane I slipped. No this wasn't just one of those skating slides. No, this was a running, full throttle feet slip out from under you and you fly until you hit the damn floor! HARD... 4 drunk guys behind Steven were heard saying, "OMG, she busted her ass!" followed by unequivical laughter. Had it been someone else I would have snickered myself. However, being me I was not amused but instead throbbing in pain and silently cursing the place as to how freaking slick they had made the dang lanes. Assholes. Anyways, my wrist swelled up into a bright blue bulge as it bruised right on my main vein, and I am pretty sure it is sprained. It hurt like a mother, and still does, but with the help of Aleve has eased. Sadly, it is worse than any injury I have had derby related. And I can't even say I did it bowling, because I hadn't even started yet. Luckily I am young and used to falls here and there. So I will live. Not sure about my ego though.

The rest of the night was amusing watching me bowl with 6 and 8 pound balls. And it wasn't even my right wrist, luckily.

I see you laughing!!

Christmas cookies 2007

Bless the person who invented cookie decorating kits... I spent a whole 5 minutes preparing to let the kids decorate vs. last year spent hours, mixing, rolling dough, cookie cutting, baking, making frosting, and then using my tips to decorate. And then the endless supply of cookies that never did get fully eaten. This year required no baking, we decorated a few one night and then the next decorated more. Just enough to eat. I like this...

Here are some pics.

The new Total Recall... my version

I love my life! Don't get me wrong it's amazing and I wouldn't trade it for anything. However, wouldn't it be nice if there was such a thing where you could take a vacation from it... in virtual reality of course (not vegas style). My version of Total Recall however, is a complete metamorphoses. You would completely change who you are, even change sexes if you prefer(not for me though). Now there would be no, living as someone real, like a celebrity... honestly I think that would be annoying and is in no way my idea of a vacation. One would be able to choose their own physical features and where and what they would want to do. My idea for me would not be a trip to Mars (such as in the movie), I would choose to go to Ireland.

In a nice cottage setting, with simple rooms, running water and basic utilities. Warmth at night would be created by a nice fire in an old rock fireplace. During the day I would take walks and view the country in it's beautiful splendor. I would of course be a nice auburn creature, with simple dainty features. Nothing extreme or dramatic. Everything average... height, weight, whatever! I would read books at night in my rocking chair by the fire, cook my own dinner using whatever is on the land, vegetables in the small garden nearbye, and if I am desperate for meat maybe hunt me a rabbit. Occasional nights I would go into the nearbye tavern and greet the locals and even drink a nice good Irish beer. The point would be the simplest things and quiet nature would be my perfect vacation. 2 weeks would be all I need, of course with this futuristic type reality the whole process would take minutes in the real world, leaving me with a lifetime of memories.

Well luckily for myself and my childlike imagination that I am blessed with, I was able to take such a vacation last night before I fell asleep. I had the best sleep I have had in a long time. It was nice. I do this occasionally. Of course always different settings and people, however this is my ultimate favorite as it speaks of my simplest perfections. But it's not a lifestyle I wish for as I would miss too many things. Just a nice escape.

Gratitude

Got 2 sick boys in the house... 1 being treated for strep and in the morning we are taking Ryker in to see if his fever is from that as well. Basically only a matter of time before Kieran, Steven, and I get it. Had a horrendous nightmare last night about Ryker disappearing in a Wal-Mart parking lot. I remember my mind racing on what all horrendous things can happen to a 15 month old in a lot full of vehicles. I woke up in a sweat panting. Haven't done that in many years. It was one of those dreams you wake up and thank God was just a dream, yet it follows you all day long. Makes you really thankful and reminds me not to take them for granted.

This post did not go as I had planned, this was the point of my gratitude. But none the less it's all about gratitude just the same.

Gage's Rabbit-Duck illusion

Have you seen those artists drawings of the old lady, then if you look from a different view it's a young woman? I think the name of those are Rabbit-duck illusion, correct me if I am wrong. Yesterday after the kids went to bed, Steven went to the grocery store and I was going through Gage's school folder. I came across a picture he drew that gave me quite a scare...



To me I see a bigger person holding a child upside down and blood coming from the child's head... What do you see?

Now my first reaction from seeing this was some fear. Usually when I see this from a kid, my first gut reaction is they have watched to much gory television or seen something similar in reality. Often times it can be signs of abuse. So I run up to Gage's room hoping he isn't asleep yet. I ask Gage what the drawing is of. He tells me, it's somebody riding a scooter. Huh??!! I don't see it. Well he has to turn it around...



Ahhhhh! I see it now. Ok then what is the red stuff, I ask. "It's his hair!" Gage says laughingly.

Woo hoo!

I finally won something. Thanks to Amie and her drawing of MonKEYS!. They look so cute. can't wait to get my hands on them.

Check out Amie's blog (Boy Story... and Beyond) to see the cute keys and get some of your own.

Kieran's birthday and other stuff

I have been meaning to write Kieran's birthday blog for awhile, but alas my bronchitis has made me pretty lazy. Kieran turned 4 on the 3rd, which was a week ago today. I had class that night, so for her birthday I went and picked her up early from preK and took her to the mall to eat and shop. She is such a girlie girl and that's what she wanted to do. Her actual party was going to be the following Saturday so I let her pick her out a present at the mall and the rest of them would wait until her party to open. Kieran immediately went to the Disney store and picked her out a princess doll, of course being Kieran it was the pink one, Little Princess Aurora from Sleeping Beauty, ironically the one that looked the most like her (even same shape of eyes). We ate some pizza, then went and got some cookie cakes for home. She got to blow her candle out on a cookie when she got home.
The day of her party was actually warm, thank goodness. Steven's parents and mine came up from Oklahoma, along with my sister and my neice Zoe. I did not make the cake this year for me being sick, so I gave in and ordered one from Wal-Mart, even let Steven pick it out. It was cute, but the lady making it had to keep redoing it because she kept writing Karen.
The day went smoothly, even got to play outside for awhile since it was fairly warm. Of course the day didn't end before Gage broke the top off of her CD player. Never fails something gets broke.
Hard to believe my little girl is 4. We have also decided that she is staying home with me starting in about a week. As much as I like her prek it was getting too expensive to pay even when she wasn't there. She will go to the home daycare Ryker goes to, the 2 weekdays I go to my internship. She is actually happy about the change. I was thinking the whole time she would be upset. She is even asking me if I plan to homeschool her like I did Gage last year. I told her, if she wanted to I could. Strange girl.

On a seperate subject. I am officially done with this semester of school. This semester was by far my easiest, not sure why. I am hoping my last one will be just as easy.

Anyways, I am tired and fixing to start reading the new Narnia book that will be out on the big screen in May, Prince Caspian. I am also wanting to go see "I am Legend" this Friday if anyone is interested in going and watching it with me. It's been awhile since I saw me a good movie.

For your viewing pleasure here is the slideshow of Kieran's birthday.

Changing things up a bit

I am sitting here too sick from coughing to fall asleep so thought I would do some minor updating around here. Kind of got tired of seeing all the pink. Plus I am stickler for change in general. I am sure this won't last super long either.

On a side note, I made the mistake of going to derby practice under the impression that it would help my lungs get over this bronchitis. I was wrong, it made it worse. I won't go into the nasty details of what happened as soon as I stepped in the cold air as practice ended, but let's just say I had me a good ol' asthmalike attack and I don't have asthma. Here I sit even worse off than before. I know I need to go to the Dr. but I am the only one without insurance in this family and well we just don't have the money right now for me to go. It sucks! If anyone has any great cures for acute bacterial (not viral) bronchitis, let me know. I have gotten it yearly since I was pregnant with Kieran and the Dr.s let it run 3 months and kept telling me it was viral. It was the Indians of course, which is why I won't go to them for this. But they finally gave me antibiotics and it cleared up in 3 days. It's a pain in the bootie. I actually thought I had made them stronger with the amount of exercise and cardio I get but nope. Can't excape it. I felt so out of shape tonight too. It was the first time in ages I didn't enjoy practice.

My Big project!

Some of you know I have been busy with a project for one of our leagues bouts coming in March I believe. In Tulsa actually. The charity that took part in this with us as well as the Green Country Rollergirls was Breast Impressions. Several from each league took part in this event by having our "ninnies" (love that term) casted. Then an artist would decorate it and they would each be auctioned off at the bout itself, to raise money for another breast cancer charity. Well, because I am a nerd and love art I wanted to do mine myself. Plus I had a vision for something asian when I saw the cast after it was done. It just hit me. I had all kinds of plans. Ironically though I didn't realize that the cast would turn out better than I thought, therefore nixing some of my plans. I was going for the asian corset theme, one similar looking to asian fabric (which is what inspired me). I also thought about adding lace around the top and bottom, well by the time I got that point Steven told me not to do that because it looked fine as it is. I started contemplating, and I have to agree, no reason to risk messing up a good thing. So I tried to take pics of the process, to give me some memories just in case by chance I do not win my boobs back. Yes, you heard me, I am bidding on my own boobs. I really want my hard work, lol. I also loved doing this so much that I am definately doing one the next time I am pregnant of my belly. Of course that one will take forever I am sure. Over all this particular cast, not counting the drying times (which were days and days), includes approximately 15 hours of work on myself. I of course did not cast myself, the founder of Breast Impressions drove up here and casted all of our lovely ladies. It was a blast. Even our captain Jay took part! So anyways without further waiting, here is a little slideshow of my casting from start to finish.

For those who are big on Fiber

I came across an article a couple of weeks ago about this pasta you may have heard about. It has 18-20g of fiber per serving and only 130 calories. I have been trying to get my family to eat more fiber due to the many health benefits mainly the reduction of colon cancer. So I am one that adds that fiber stuff to everything. Anyway, I went ahead and ordered the pasta from www.fibergourmet.com. You basically have to order in bulk but I got 10 bags for $20 plus shipping, not too bad. We got it yesterday and I went ahead and cooked half a bag (2 servings) tonight for myself with some veggies and chicken broth. The whole pot of it with veggies and everything was only 370 calories. The pasta tasted just like normal pasta and I couln't finish it all, which is odd for me. So I was very impressed and I will definately be eating this pasta from now on.

I also wanted to add that Weight Watchers is a big advocate of this pasta, if that makes any difference to anyone.

Gosh I sound like a infomercial... I promise this is me. lol

Well, hush my mouth

Ok, so I am skeptical person. Very! It's hard not to be when you deal with psychotics and schizo's. So as some people know, I design signatures at a website with other ladies. Most of these signatures are women wanting something of their children that they can use at the end of a post on a bulletin board or parenting board. Well the other day one of our designers got a request with this in it...

i know you are away for awhile, but wanted to be put on the waiting list, i hope this is ok, i know it may be awhile, please let me know when you can, i hope you and your family are well..

i really want you to have creative freedom...i go by the name lynnxoxo, id love to have the "xoxo" in it....my oldest dd is ATIANA and my son is LANDON , my youngest daughter is ALABAMA...( i put in 2 of her and you can pick) i hope im writing this in the right spot! all the best

lynnxoxo

(Pics taken out by me)

Now some may not recognize the names, and I wouldn't at first either. But those names and the pics of the children were that of Shanna Moaklers and Travis Barker.

Ok, so I didn't believe it was her. Honestly we deal with fakes all the time. Mostly people claiming to have children who don't and steal pics of other children off the net. We don't look too highly on that. To me it's worse than identity theft because you are stealing someones children claiming they are your own. So anyways, I went against the grain of most of the women thinking she was real (I thought she was fake). So to proove my point I messaged Shanna through her MySpace page asking her this...

Hey there, I am designer at VIP signatures and we have someone requesting a sig with your children in it. We frown on identity theft and when children are involved it makes us pretty angry. If it is indeed you a siggy will be made, but we wanted to make sure it is you requesting before the order is filled.

here is the link to your request
link removed for privacy

Thanks so much,

I didn't think I would get a response because well she is pretty much famous and probably gets messages all day and night from crazies. Well, she did respond and this is what she had to say...

yes it is me! i go by (taken out)...on the (taken out), i just wanted it for me....i wasnt sure if i would use it as i figured people would reconize my kids! i love the (taken out) and it sucks i have to kind of hide who i am, but i thank you so much for writing me! i love all the siggys!
shannaxoox
aka
(taken out)

Sorry I replaced the sites names for her privacy. I have to say I am impressed with how down to earth she seems. She could get a professional graphic anytime, but instead chooses us self taught ladies. I also like that she tries to blend in with us normal mothers on a common parenting board (also one I frequent) and doesn't try to impress people with who she is. I don't know if I really had an opinion of her before but I do now, and it's one of respect. If this gets back to Shanna, I just want to say thank you for choosing us once again.

Trying to figure it out

The holidays are once again upon us and at an incredibly fast rate if I must say. While our plans for Thanksgiving are set with just our simple family and absolutely no traveling, I am still trying to figure the Christmas thing. We have also opted not to travel then either, at least not until the following weekend. Just staying home and again doing our simple family thing. However, there is the gift aspect that leaves me with a empty feeling. I think everyone understands the commercialism/materialism and everything and well when you have children it just makes it that much more noticible. I don't want Christmas to be this "What can I get out of it" type thing, but more of a memory making occasion. The kids are getting older and well it still doesn't make much difference to them what they end up with, however if we continue on the materialism road, it will eventually change. We are already doing the Operation Christmas Child .
Making 1 box for the age of our own children. We have done similar things in the past. Yet I still draw a blank for the kids themselves. If I had my wish, we would go to Ireland or the Mountains and just do Christmas simple, but in another place. I plan to do that one of these days, but until then, I stand at a point of utter cluelessness.
So far our traditions include... making Christmas cookies on Christmas Eve (how original I know), making a birthday cake on the big day, and the whole gift and dinner thing. But all that does is leave us with utterly full bellies and too much stuff to know what to do with. Kids never get to all the toys, so it's almost pointless. So I have sitting around racking my brain trying to come up with something, but I have no clue what I am even looking for. Less presents obviously, but in place of that, what? What would make it memorable? I need ideas. Something novel. Something different. Something besides baking. Maybe something that will make a difference to the kids this year.

Well obviously ideas are needed. And sorry I can't be more specific, just something to fill the holiday void.

Not too shabby

Today was the annual chili cook off at our church. So since Steven made deer chili last year I decided I would put my apron on this year. Well, since I have never made home made chili I decided to look around for some recipes. I found one that sounded interesting and decided to change it up a bit so as I wouldn't feel like I was stealing it. My additions included steak instead of hamburger, bacon, brown sugar, and oregano and some other secret ingredients. I tasted my concoction to see what else I may need to add, and lo and behold I felt like Baby Spice on that Preggo commercial, I didn't need to add anything. So I took my chili down to church and set up a quick little theme representing our couples class. Had a little picture put up stating it was Christian Couples Chili, and gave a verse from the Bible (with my own addition)...

Genesis 1:27 “So God created man in his own image,
in the image of God he created him;
male and female he created them.”

And together they created chili.
And together they agreed it was good.

And the bottom included a short poem by moi...

Something meaty for his taste, with a soft touch of
sweetness like her grace.

So some college guys from who knows where were invited to judge it. There were maybe 10 entries. So anyways, jumping to point, I got 2nd place for best tasting chili. 1st place went to the people who won for the last 6 years. Apparently a really spicy chili. Since I can't eat spicy I will never beat them I suppose. But then I got 1st for best presentation... SWEET!! So anyways I went to go get a second bowl of my chili and it was gone in a matter of 10 minutes. I clearly did not make enough. I think those college guys got way too much, lol. So after that the guys went and played football while I sat in the nursery chasing kiddos. Then came home, took a 4 hour nap, got up, went to practice, finally got to scrimmage (after going through withdrawel and wanting to hip check everybody who walked in front of me throughout the days and weeks prior), came home and now I am killing time before I do a paper. Small paper, but still needs to be done before tomorrow.

Anyway, this was my total BS and brag post...

Oh and here are my chili pics 10 minutes after the voting.





Now I know what to bring for potlucks.

Happy, happy, joy, joy!!!

Each semester there comes a time when registration for the upcoming semester arrives. This day is marked with a rush to the computer in the early morning in hopes to grab the classes you want or need in hopes of grabbing them before they are filled up. It is not uncommon for many of these classes to be filled up by 9:30 a.m. It's ridiculous really. None the less, I set my alarm with the intent to get up and come the 2 feet to the computer to register. So after I registered for my final practicum (with 1 place left in the class I wanted) and my Ethics class, I then realized that this is it. No more. I will never again have to fight to get a spot in a class. I will never again have to worry about what I will have to take and if it is even being offered. Why? Because, next semester is my last. Alas, graduation looms nearer and nearer. I was even lucky enough to get both classes on the same day, and for once not super late. My first class actually being in the afternoon at 1:30. And another good thing, they are on Thursday so not on a practice day. With a little more than 5 weeks left in this semester I realize just how fast the next semester will fly by.

It almost seems surreal. In all actuality when I was growing up, I had no clue whether or not I would even go to college. My parents are definately working class Americans with no college degrees. My mother actually dropped out of high school. It was always well known that they would not be able to send me to college. I even applied for Pell grants my Senior year but they made too much for me to get anything, but not enough to send me (this is where the government fails, among other areas). And the same went for my younger sister. Some may remember my short stint in the NAVY, which was my attempt to have my education paid for. Well, due to an undiagnosed seizure disorder in which the military happens to frown upon I was medically discharged. Again, dreams of an education faded away. That is until I was given information on a rehab grant.(Thanks Eddie S.) Because of the circumstances of me leaving for the military but then being discharged because of my seizures, I was approved for such a grant. This grant saved my education. Because someone else was paying for it, I felt obligated to complete it. An obligation that has continued to this day, even though now it's me footing the bill. So as you can see, this simple milestone is not so simple to me. I have worked my butt off for it. Many sacrifices were made to get me to this point, not just by me but my family as well. Even though it is still 6 months away, I look forward to this day with anxious anticipation. Now as long as something major doesn't happen, I will get there. Knock on wood!!

The Body harbors, what the mind ignores

I haven't been much for updating lately. Haven't felt like it. In truth I haven't felt much of anything except a terrible tension headache for the past 2 weeks. It wouldn't budge no matter what I tried. On a pain scale it wasn't dreadful, but the fact that it was constant from the moment I woke up to the time I passed out each night wore on me. Finally last Monday after class I gave in and drove from Ft. Smith to Talequah, where the nearest Indian Hospital is. I did not get home until 3:30 a.m. Yes, that is how desperate I was. And to top it off I drove through the worst fog imaginable. Nothing like being on Highway 62 in the middle of the night with fog everywhere. I kept waiting for the car to breakdown and my cell to be out of area, it was a perfect set up for a horror movie. I think I passed a total of 5 cars the whole trip. So I was given a nice prescription of muscle relaxers and darvocet. Of course with my lovely schedule I wasn't even able to take the meds until I was home at night and Steven was around to watch the kids. Basically I took them at night before bed. I didn't feel like going through the day like a zombie and well, I just didn't feel right taking them when I was alone with Ryker. So luckily I only had to take a couple of darvocets and I no longer needed those. I am not to keen on pain killers anyway. But I continued to take the muscle relaxers at night, as they are definately working. I slowly felt the tightness in my head diminish with each passing day. Of course now, I have this ubber dry mouth that no matter what I drink I can't get rid of. I could do without that. I was being interviewed for a documentary for roller derby today (for some U of A students I believe) and I so badly wanted to suck on some candy the whole time. I got choked several times.
So I realize now that even though I don't necessarily feel super stressed, .my body of course is telling me to take better care of it. I figured, I better take advantage of those free massages for the rollergirls and get one. I wonder if they do head massages? Is there such a thing? Oh well if not, I will take the full body. It will apprecate it I am sure.

I would die for that...

(Note: this is not to cause argument or anything of the sort, if you have anything negative to say keep it to yourself. This is my blog and I will post what I want to in regards to what I feel)

On that note, I was shared this link today and this song is absolutely beautiful and touching.

Understanding my role

I have been thinking a lot about perception lately. Mostly on my weekly trips to Ft. Smith on Mondays. Long stretches of highways are the best way to reflect. I often wonder how people perceive me upon our meeting. I have been told on many occasions that I am hard to read, either that or I seem stuck up. I see nothing wrong with that honestly because there is no trickery involved, nor conceit, I am also not hiding anything. Truth be known, while people are trying to get a feel for me, more than likely I am getting a feel for them. My engagement just requires less emotion, at least on my face. It is no secret that I also keep a tight wall. I am cordial to all, just few ever really get through the actual interview process. Seems every year it gets even more tight. Again, I am not bothered by this. I know it seems at times I am rather anti-social, and maybe I am to some degree. I guess my priorities are just different than most. No biggie. I have also found quite a bit of comfort in this particular role. The biggest reason being, I have found absolutely little to no drama in my life. It is soothing really. Never been too keen on it anyways. I also like to keep an eye out for those who tend to attract it, in order to keep my distance. This is one of the many things I do when I people watch. I of course am attracted to similar minded people. And thankfully I have found several here and there.

Another sad, yet interesting part of my thinking involves constant concern regarding the mental stability of people. Seems with each passing class towards graduation I find that mental illness and personality disorders are much more rampant than most would like to admit or believe. This of course weighs heavily on how involved I tend to get with others. Needless to say I find my self keeping my distance on those who score high in certain areas. Unfortunately, many statistics show that up to 25% of the population suffers from such illnesses and disorders. 1 out 4 is way to high to let just anyone in. After all you wouldn't let someone you barely know into your home, so why should it be any different for your life. I know several of you are probably reading this and thinking, "this is why she doesn't talk on the phone", or "so this is why she doesn't go out." Actually no, truth is, I hate talking on the phone, and bars are way to darn smoky for me, especially since my last pregnancy when I seem to have developed a severe case of smoke sickness. Anytime I smell just a little I get severly nauseated.
If anything I just wanted to clarify what is going on in my mind when you are trying to determine if I am just dumb or stuck up. But if it makes you feel better to think one of those then by all means continue. It makes no iota of difference to me.

Lesson #164

Anatomy of Exhaustion Lesson #164 (which is the number of post this is)

We have all heard the saying "To kill 2 birds with one stone." While it is widely used to help save time and energy, there are resourceful ways in which it can also be used to save time but not energy, and well that is the whole point to this particular lesson.

Case in point.

Today was Gage and Ryker's joint birthday party. While I definately killed 2 birds there, I also decided to put it on the same day as my last Rollerderby bout. And to add to the killing, I also traded our Jeep for a mini-van with my Dad. All in one day. Now this kind of planning will not be successful in energy depletion unless you wear yourself out the day before by cleaning, making cakes, and tying up other lose ends... such as cleaning out the jeep at 1 a.m. Even going none stop all day yesterday that was the only time available to do so. Ryker's smush cake was completed around 12:45 a.m. Keep in mind you will be exhausted the night before but because of all the planning that goes into this combined eventful day, you will not be able to fall asleep until 5 a.m. And then like clockwork your child or children will wake you up at 8 a.m. Whatever you do, you must seize this time and get up and go tie up more loose ends in town, such as getting balloons and grocery shop for the party itself. Once you are back home you will need to use what little energy you have to set up the actual decorations and what not for the party. By the time you are finished with that, your little one will be down for a nap so you should use this time wisely and lay down with him. You will need this energy later for the actual derby bout. Of course it will again take time to fall asleep as your mind should be running a mile a minute. After this you should have gotten just over an hour in rest. Now up again, cook the foods, make the punch, and welcome the family. Now time for actual party... So do your thing, presents, cake, pictures, etc. Now that the party is actually over it is time to start getting ready for the bout. Once ready, go and do your thing there. The muscle fatigue you feel caused from lack of sleep will be eventually remedied with a couple of Ibuprofen and some Aleve. It may take an hour for them to kick in, but by this time the actual bout should have started and you will have your mind on other things. Also remember to drink lots of fluids, this will be helpful in not only with preventing dehydration, but also with forcing yourself to go to the bathroom 4 times in 5 hours and having to fight with your pantyhose, fishnets, skirt, and shorts each and everytime. This energy is well spent, trust me. So if you are successful in the energy depletion by the time you reach your home and have eaten you should feel rundown and eagerly wishful of shut eye. If you can though, try and postpone it just a little longer, to read, catch up on email and MySpace, because don't forget you have church and Sunday school in the morning with your Mother visiting as well as Mother and Father in Law. And to top it off with some excitement, because your 2 birds with one stone was on Saturday which is usually when you get some hours with your internship, you will have the pleasure of catching up on those hours the next day. So there it is, one of the toughest lessons yet, but all worth it in the long run. After all no one becomes Superwoman overnight.

Good luck, and stay tuned for Lesson #165, with actual pictures from the party.

1 year

Well, the year has come and gone, and much faster than I had anticipated. It saddens me to think how fast they grow up. Next week my oldest will be 7 and it seems like just yesterday he was born. It is somewhat funny (yet sad) to me that Ryker is just now getting is top teeth and wouldn't you know it Gage's first top tooth fell out yesterday. Time really needs to slow down. A year ago today Ryker was born at 7 lbs. adn 3 oz, the biggest of all 3 of my kiddos. Today he weighs a whopping 23 pounds. All three of them were born semi small and then got huge around a year old. Plump ol' babies. But something weird happens when they get around 3, they get all skinny and make me start worrying. Kieran hasn't gained a pound in a year and is only 9 pounds bigger than Ryker. Gage is 3 years older than her and only 10 pounds more than she is. I will let you do the Math.

Anyways, Ryker's birthday was nice. Although his and Gage's big party is on Saturday we went ahead and had a cake and gave him one of his presents. His new Diego car thing. I think Gage and Kieran wanted it more than he did, although he seemed to get a kick out of it. Pictures of his big day are below, including his official 1 year pics that I took myself vs. going to professionals. So much cheaper.

Enjoy!

Asleep, before waking up for his big day...

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For you Larisa

First let me start our by saying McDonalds finally came ouit with something I enjoy. I am sitting here drinking a large iced vanilla coffee, which surprisingly is pretty good considering the source. Only thing, the larges are ginormous! Not the best idea for someone has trouble falling asleep.

Now onto other interesting life tidbits. I am in planning mode trying to tie up all lose ends for Gage and Ryker's combined birthday party on the 22nd. We are doing a space theme as Gage is big into that now. He will be 7 on the 26th and Ryker will be 1 on the 19th. Hard to believe both boys are growing so fast. Makes me sad at times. The 22nd is also our last official team bout of the season. So I will be in party mode in the day and derby mode by the night. My Mom is also on vacation that week so she will be staying with us that night and seeing her daughter get plummeled. I am sure she will enjoy that. I remember when I was little I would go watch her play volleyball. Not quite as dangerous but hey, fun just the same.

I am also going to be a minivan owner on the 22nd. We are trading my Dad's minivan with our jeep. We have been wanting one for awhile and well he isn't exactly a minivan person, so this will let him trade in the jeep for a car. Works great for us as we just finished paying off the jeep. The Lumina will be paid off in November, just in time for Steven's student loans to start being paid.

Well, with the derby season fixing to end I have decided to start studying for my licensure exams. I am hoping to take the NCE and MFT test before graduation. Sooner rather than later as to avoid the crunch at the end of the semester. I am getting really anxious that graduation is not that far off. Seems this last year flew by. This time by next I should be nice and settled into a great job and done with school... unless I decide to go back for a PhD. But we won't go there now, I need a break. I have been going to school since I was 4 and I think I need to know what it's like to not be in there. If I go through a midlife crises at 30 then I can always jump back in, but whose to say I won't enjoy the time off.

I have to confess, I have been looking at Real Estate like a mad person now that graduation looms near. I also have to admit that there is a good chance we might move to Bella Vista in a year or two. Not that I don't love Fayetteville, but houses are prime up there, in great wooded areas, just like I grew up in and square footage is a plus there. So many reasons really, but the location is just beautiful.

Well that's it on the Kitchens front I believe, nothing to crazy. For you derby lovers here is the flyer to the game. Just remember this is your last chance to come see me until next season... unless you come to practice.

Trip to the ER

Had to take Kieran in to the ER today. When I got up she had been in her bathroom, which I heard from down stairs. I asked her what she was doing up there... "nothing". So yeah that means she was doing something. Otherwise it would have been, going to the bathroom. I went up there and she had gotten into her tylenol. I called Steven freaking out asking how full it was. He said it was a third full, well it was almost empty. So 30 minutes later we were in the ER having her drink some charcoal. She drank a few drinks and said it was good then a few minutes later decided no more. I had to pay her a quarter for each drink to get her to drink some more. Still only drank about half, but luckily the Dr. said that was probably enough. He said luckily the amount she drank was probably not toxic, but had she of drank a half a bottle it would have been. So anyways, she is fine and I have had my adrenaline rush for the day. All is well... for now. She and Gage are currently getting spankings for antagonizing each other.

Hodgepodge update

I know it's been awhile since I have made a blog. A lot going on and when I think I need to update it, I am usually too tired. I have even wrote several out in my head while trying to fall asleep. So forgive me if this turns out to be a jumbled mess.

School had started once again for myself (no big news there), but more importantly it also started for Steven teaching high school. I have never seen him so worn out. I guess having over 150 students will do that. I don't envy him, but he does seem to enjoy it. Gage also started 1st grade. I had so many reservations starting him in public school after what happened last year. But so far it seems to be going great. His behavior has been getting top marks, except for one day when he accidently hit a girl with a jump rope, the teacher didn't see it and tried to get him to tell her what happened. The other girl said it was on purpose so she just assumed. She emailed us later saying she probably jumped to conclusions because he was afraid to answer. My son maybe hyper, but he is not mean. Other than that one day every day has been smooth. He likes his teacher and she keeps him busy after he finishes work with "tasks". I think that is a huge help. I am joining the PTO and hopefully I can still be involved, even though it's not quite as much as when I was homeschooling him.

Both Gage's and Ryker birthdays are coming up in September. Gage will be 7 and Ryker will be 1. I swear time flies so fast once you have kids. It's sad at times. I am having thier combined party on the 22nd which is also my last derby bout for this season. Hopefully my family will stay and watch it. Speaking of derby my first bout was awesome. I think the score was like 91 to 39, and yes we were the winners. I am pretty sure everyone had a great time. I know I did. I was also surprised at how calm I was, I was sure I would be a nervous wreck. And another plus is I made it out relatively unharmed, not much more than some tiny bruises. Knock on wood for the next one though.

My birthday was a week ago, had class and worked so not much happened. I got a cookie cake and some cards... that was about it. I keep telling myself one of these days I will actually do something for it, maybe for the big 3-0, in 3 years. We shall see. If it is left up to me, it probably won't happen, that almost seems too selfish to me, but who cares right!?! Today is also my Dad's birthday, I am pretty sure he is still in the Colorado Mountains in thier timeshare... butthole! I would give a toe to be there right now. If you know me at all, you know I love the mountains.

Anyways, August is almost over, and I am glad, it's always too busy anyways. Looks like tomorrow I will be spending the day at home with Kieran and Ryker. Kieran has no school, which wouldn't matter anyway as she is currently fighting off a fever. She had one last night but it went away with a tylenol-Ibuprofen cocktail. Weird that it was gone today and then came back tonight. I hope it is just a fluke virus thing and nothing comes of it.

Next week I have no school. That is always a big plus for me. I swear if I wasn't so close to graduating I would have to take a semester off. Yeah right, me take a semester off. I remember my Mom telling me when I was pregnant with Gage, "Now just be sure if you take a semester off when you have him that you go back the next, and don't keep putting it off, and then never go back." Well, that has been the only semester I have taken off in school. Even when Ryker was born I went back 2 weeks later. She was right though, if I had taken anymore off, it would have been even harder going back. Just something to think about for those contemplating such a feat.

And on that note, I am off to eat some PB&J.... Later!

one of those days

Well, technically it started before today. Maybe around 11 last night. Ryker started puking. Then Kieran after she went to bed decided to spew in her bed. It was everywhere. Oh the joys of motherhood. I think I sprayed lysol in every square inch of her room and everywhere I could think she and Ryker touched. Luckily she didn't not spew anymore, however today she broke out in some weird hives. We took her to the Dr. whom diagnosed her with an allergic reaction of some kind. I believe she is allergic to the virus itself. She has not eaten anything at all today. We have offered her all her favorites and nope. You know a child is sick when they refuse ice cream. Ryke woke up puking. And throughout the day had sporadic little episodes. Luckily though he is eating "a little" and no rash. There was a point today that I became so drained that I literally was unable to even get up.

Looks as though tomorrow will be very similar as Kieran is staying home sick. I am hoping for some sleep tonight. I so need it. Tomorrow I get to meet Gage's new teacher and I hope and pray she will not be a repeat of last years. I am giving it a go though, but if it happens again I will have no qualms about taking him out again, although Steven swears that everything will be ok. We shall see.

Anyways, here are some scary pics of Kierans hives. These aren't near as bad as they were when they first appeared. These are from the second episode after the first ones went away... those one were all over her belly and upper legs.

Oh August

Well, August is here already. Ever since I was little August has been and excting yet busy month. Much of my families birthday falls in August (including mine), and then with school starting, well let's just say there was always some mixed emotions but most have always been good. Now as an adult it comes with the same enthusiasm, but marked with much anxiety. Every year it seems there is something new to add to the month. As I sat down to mark my family calendar for this month with each plan or birthday, I managed to leave a whopping 5 days of this month free, at least for now. So a small breakdown of this month...

2-4 derby practices a week
2-3 days a week of practicum/work
7 days of class
My first derby bout, I thought I would have to wait a month because it was supposed to be a Killbillie game, well I guess we are having a second team which we named the Backwoods Betties, which I get to play on. So yay for that.
My 8th Anniversary on the 14th, also marking 10 years together
My 27th Birthday on the 23rd
Dad's birthday a week later
School starts for me, Gage, and Steven all on the same day, the 20th. Me still in grad school, Gage starting 1st grade in Bentonville and Steven's first day of teaching high school. That day will mark the most stressful for me. While I wanted to continue to homeschool Gage, we of course gave him the option to either go back or stay home. We did reiterate that he would not be going back to the school he went to before, due to the situation we had. So he decided he would try public school. And with Steven being in Bentonville, we basically had a free transfer to any school in that district. Gage's school is just a block from where Steven is teaching. So anyway, that day will be high anxiety for me, plus I will have to drive to Ft. Smith for class... which sucks, but I have no choice. ((Sigh))

Even with next month and the boys birthday's and their parties it will still be a breather compared to this one. None the less, lots of exciting things happening and I am looking forward to most of it. So with that... bring on August!

The wedding

Yes we are back to Fayettenam from Okienawaa. My sister's wedding was beautiful. Everything went off without a hitch. My one concern was we were hurrying our butt off trying to get everything done before it started as there was a meeting at the church before hand. My poor Mom was running around like crazy. Kelsey however was nice and calm and acted like nothing phased her. She was the complete opposite of a Bridezilla. Someone would ask her how she would want something and she would always reply with an, "I don't care". I guess that made me have to be the mean one at times. (well you know not too mean). But just making sure everything went off smoothly. She looked absolutely beautiful. Of course I have to say it did help that she wore my wedding dress and did her hair exactly like mine was when I got married... COPYCAT!! Just kidding, I thought she looked gorgeous. And I am glad my dress got some use once again. Plus it saved her from spending $500 or so. Wasn't so sure about the "orange" theme, but let me say it was a perfect summer color, and the flowers were beautiful. Oh, and the weather matched with it's nice hot and humid Okienawaa affect. I wouldn't even step outside until the wedding was over as I would melt. It was good to see lots of people I haven't see in a long time, including my grandparents. I almost cried when I saw them. All in all it was a beautiful event and Kelsey glowed and smiled the whole time. The weekend was nice and I even got to see my bestest bud Charlette, even though we dropped in unexpectedly. She was gracious enough to allow us in. Anyways, here are some of the pics from the wedding, enjoy.

Ah yeah...

So I have been fighting a raunchy stomach bug since Tuesday night after I got home from practice and making signs at Pork's house. At first I thought it was gas from eating the greasy pizza. I should have known better though as I never have had those awful cramps except when I am preggers.  So I drank Mylanta thinking it would help, well it probably made it worse before I finally realized maybe this is a bug.  By then I was so weak, the thought of even walking into another room was a feat more than I could take. So I called into work, hate doing that! Plus I need the hours. But, I had no choice, I had to drag myself to class later that day as it is a summer course and missing is taboo, because they aren't very long at all. Plus I already have to miss have of my next class on Monday for an Internet Safety thing at our church (More info. coming for that as it is open to the public). Anyways I literally dragged myself there, pale and weak. So anyways after I made it home, I was in bed before 10. It was nice, for a change to be able to fall asleep without sitting there forever. So I woke up at 5:45, unable to fall back asleep, then Ryker awoke at 6:15. So I thought since I was feeling a wee bit better I would take advantage of the day. Well we did our breakfast thing and waited for Gage to wake up so we could go do some shopping. Well Ryker ended up falling back asleep and so did I.  We still got up and around and went and ate lunch at Logan's, just me and the boys. Of course I was not able to eat much as I am a still bit on the yuck side. So we headed to Hobby Lobby where Steven met us. Then to Wal-Mart trying to get any needed items before we leave town tomorrow. It was nice to get out for a bit.

Steven was a dear and made a appointment for a stone massage at the Pink Papaya today and prepaid and everything. So I just got back from that and can I just say, if you have not tried one of those, they are awesome. Especially if you have really sore tired muscles like I do. Of course I had to make her aware of all the bruises all over my body, but she still managed to make it awesome. This is the first massage I have had in 10 months and 8 days. Why the exact amount? That is when I went and had that prenatal massage where I told her that I was ready to go and she so nicely rubbed those magic pressure points that sent me into labor 12 hours later and I swear is what made it last an hour and a half, pushing and everything. I have been a big believer of massages since. 

So we shall see how my muscles react to being treated nicely for a change. I am sure my body is pretty pissed for all the damage it incurs week after week. I finally broke down and told myself to get some new derby pads as the ones I am using have worn out their welcome. Their latest damage is shown below...



Yes those are in different stages of healing. I keep reinjuring them again.

Anyways, tomorrow we leave for Oklahoma to my sisters wedding. Hoping I am completely better before the drive. For those that are around the NWA area, if you have nothing to do this Saturday, be sure and head on down to the Shelter Skelter bout for some nice derby action. Would be my first official game, but alas I have to miss it.

Congrats!!!

To Steven, the newest high school Chemistry teacher for Bentonville High. We received news this morning. Steven has applied to almost all Math and Science positions here in NWA. But he got the one he wanted. Chemistry is his niche' and they pay one of the highest in the State. Not super excited about the drive, after all half of NWA commutes back anf forth from there. But alas everything else about it seems perfect for him.

Catching up...

From today...

Well to me it was big. Our a/c went out Saturday night. And of course Murphy's Law would have it to where it is the hottest it has been and on the weekend when no one works. Well as bad as yesterday was, today it got up past 90 in the house. And last night it was past 85. I had one hour of sleep. Well, the news we heard this morning said the service guy would be out at 5, but the down side is whatever was wrong would need a part which would have to be ordered and take a day or two. I was fumming. I was going to take the kiddos and stay in a hotel. Well while I was in class and just had selfishly asked for prayer requests for AIR, I received news that it was a problem with the unit sensor, and there was a chance they could get the part today. Well I came home to a much cooler house. That made my day... week I mean.

Well nothing is perfect of course as we went out to eat and Kieran threw a horrendous fit, which required me to stay in the LaHuerta bathroom with her half the time. I guess I should realize we are both exhausted, her room of course was the hottest in the house last night, so she probably slept horrible. So she is going to bed right now. But again, it was awesome to come home to cool air. It's like when you are sick, you realize you take being healthy for granted, well when something like your air goes out or the electricity goes off, you realize just how well we as Americans have it. We are spoiled. Somewhat humbling if you ask me. Maybe a stinch in the African drylands would suffice as bringing us back down to where we should be. Something to think about I suppose... in my super tired but thankful state.


From July 10th

I am officially a Twisted Sister. Was drafted last night. Can't wait to get my jersey and start buying up everything Blue. And wouldn't you know first game is on the 28th which is my sisters wedding day. So looks like I won't be making it to that. Bummer. That's ok, my true optimistic self sees this as plenty of extra practice time to get better. Sooo, anyways there is my news.

I would also like to Congratulate Rodney and Jennifer on the birth of their first baby, little Lily. I hope I spelled that right? If not just let me know. 6 pounds and 4 ounces I believe. Hope Mommy recovers quickly from her C-Section. Congrats again and can't wait to meet her.

From July 6th....

Well little Ryker has been through the ringer the past few days. I guess that is why babies are supposed to teeth early. Seems like he has been teething forever. He even had a tooth break through at 4 months and then disappeared. Well it popped back out 3 days ago, and he has been miserable. Not sleeping (which means little for us), snotting, fever, just plain ol' miserable. We finally took him to the Dr. today as we knew something wasn't right. They checked his ears and such and they were clear. 9 months and still no ear infections, Dr. guessed right when he said he must not go to daycare. But he did say he has a upper respiratory infection and prescribed some antibiotics. All from teething, it's crazy. He is finally letting go of us for a few minutes, giving me a chance to catch up on here. He was literally making us hold him the whole time and most of the time not even let us sit down. His gate has been so unsteady you just knew he was miserable, but he was walking normal tonight. Wish he could have felt better yesterday for the rollergirl picnic. He normally loves being outside and playing in the grass, but nope not yesterday. He did however play in the slip in slide for about 10 minutes, he does love the water. He slept through most of our fireworks but when the loud ones started he had enough and we went back in. Hard to believe last year I was pregnant with him. Anyways, a prayer for him would be appreciated, he has been through the ringer.

Well on other news I decided on a derby name. Thanks to Tyra and Pork Pie! Blazen won the most votes, so I was going to go with that when they mentioned Blazen Glory. I laughed thinking for sure that would be taken, but I looked and what do you know, not one even close. Woo hoo. So that is what it will be. Not official yet as it has to be submitted and what not, but at least it is my jumping off one. So if you hate it, keep it to yourself, lol. I love it. Now to figure out a number.

Derby name

On the league

As of tonight. I finally passed my MST's (Minimum Skills Test). Me and the floor were best buds tonight, I must have hugged it over 10 times. Which is more than I have totalled in a month. Dang nerves! Surprisingly none of them were injury causing. At least I don't think them to be. Can't really see me back and it is what hurts the most. But nothing not normal for derby practice that lasts 3 hours.

So I need to come up with a derby name. I have a few and one is sticking out, but not sure what others think of it yet, so I will get back to you on that. Thinking about starting a poll, but then what if others vote for the one I am not crazy about. Guess I will wait and see.

Anyways I am utterly exhausted, but luckily I am sleeping again, even last night when I knew I would have to get up early for church. And without the aide of OTC drugs. Tomorrow my group class starts. Funny enough we are using the exact same book that I had in my undergrad for that class. I thought that was pretty cool. Bible school also starts tomorrow. Steven is taking the toddler class. I thought that was cute. I will be joining soon after class. This week is either going to fly by or go by really slow. Next weekend, Steven and the kiddos are going to the Wilcox reunion, while I stay here for work and derby. I wanted to go, but I need the hours. Plus I also need to catch up on sleep. This will be the first time away from Ryker at night. Pray for me that I can handle it.

I think I am going to go watch a movie or something and relax. Ya, that actually sounds really good right now.

Guess I need to update...

Hmm, where to start? Well I am exhausted as hell! Got a bad case of the super insomnia out of nowhere. Started a little more than a week ago. Like 3 nights out of 7 I literally could not fall asleep at all. The other 4 I took some tylenol pm or other OTC stuff and it took over 2 hours to even put a hint of sleepy in me. It's like I stayed in that first layer right before you drift off for those 2 hours, it sucked! So anyways the OTC stuff sucks, and the whole next day I feel groggy as crap. So I am pretty much not functional. I know I need to go to the Dr. and get some real sleeping meds but that involves a trip to Talequah to the Indian Hospital, and well like my schedule allows for that.

And work...isn't it the case that when you feel like crap that you get the most on your plate at work and then well the kids are little turds. Nothing like leading a group of 5-12 year olds that yell and scream, "stop touching me, quit looking at me, he is provoking me, she called me the F word, and the...Can I take a VTO (Voluntary time out)?" Where is my time out? Don't I get one? But noooooo, Ms. Jeska never gets a time out. So when I get home I decided we were going to Red Lobster. Now I am tired and terribly full. But at least I ate Lobster.

So anyways, another class starts next week. One more thing on my plate. At least this will be my last summer of classes. ::::Me trying to see the bright side, once again:::: But because it is only a month long that means I will be living there most of that month, along with getting my hours at Vista, and of course my motherly and wifely duties. Oh and don't forget Bible school starts next week. Well at least the kids are looking forward to it :::again me trying to see the bright side::::.

Ok I know this post sounds bummerish, but the truth is it's all in the tired lethargic tone, not the shoot me now my life sucks one. One good night of sleep without waking up groggy would cure me right up. Some good news, Ryker has been full fledged walking for awhile. Had a video on my camera for awhile but again I am too tired to upload and post. Sad huh! Anyways, hope everyone is still kicking and doing great, not that I would know, I haven't really talked with anyone in awhile. This cranky bear needs to go back to hybernating!!!

Later!!!

Chuckie Cheese and Gage's graduation

Today we celebrated Gage graduating his Kindergarten year of Homeschool. I had reservations when we first took him out, that he would miss this big milestone. But I refused to let that happen, so we made a big to do about it and had a day trip to Chuckie Cheese and then he got awarded a medal and diploma at home with his very own cap and gown. Funny it wasn't hard at all to find a place to buy those. He looked so proud. I kind of do feel weird about the Kindergarten thing when we have been doing first grade work for over 4 months. We are also still continuing throughout the summer to keep him sharp. I also have no idea what is going to happen next year. I am still having reservations about sending him back to a public school, even though we have discussed sending him to wherever Steven teaches because he would get a free transfer. I do know he will only go if that is the case. Either way I am not stressing about it, just taking it in stride and seeing where God leads as usual.

Anyways, here is some pics from today... Plus one of Gage being silly dressing up in his Daddy's clothes.