Happy Halloween, Everyone!
Friday, October 31, 2008
Mama Bear and her Cub
In case anyone is wondering, I have *very* strong Mama Bear instincts when it comes to my children. One wrong look just may get you into trouble. Which is exactly what a student on Kelton's bus found out today. No one messes with my kid. No one.
Kelton got off the bus yesterday and one look was all I needed to know something was up. He ran up to me and started to spill everything. Apparently an older student had been bullying him for a few weeks; nothing Kelton couldn't handle apparently because this is the first I've heard of it. The boy was calling him names but stuck mostly to "stupid" and his younger brother was threatening Kelton that his brother was going to beat him up. (I asked why he hadn't told me and he said it didn't really bother him until now. Now he was scared.)
What brought this on? Well - from what Kelton can tell it was because the older boy and his brother found out that Kelton had kissed (on the neck) a girl from his class. Kelton told me about it the day the "kiss" happened and we had a heart to heart about why that isn't ok to do and, in the end, he knows he should never do it again. To me, it is totally a no big deal thing in the context it happened. I waited though and talked with Kelton about the possibility that he would be called to the office to discuss it. He never was and I assumed that was the end of it.
Apparently the older boy has been holding it over Kelton's head as a handy way to torture my poor kid.
Yesterday the older boy got physical. He grabbed Kelton, hit me, yanked a flyer out of his hands and called him names while threatening to "beat him".
Mama ain't havin' none of that.
I called the office immediately and was informed it needed to be in writing and sent with Kelton to his teacher who would then send it to the office. That could actually take a full day which would mean it probably wouldn't be handled until Monday.
Again, Mama ain't havin' none of that.
We were going in for parent teacher conference anyway (another post) so I hand delivered the letter to the office and was assured it would be given to the principal when she arrived in the morning.
Still not good enough for me.
I sent an email to the principal (who I have gotten to know because of the PTO) to inquire as to whether she got the letter and to ask for an update as soon as she had it.
I then put Kelton on the bus and had him tell his driver (yesterday was a sub. but his regular driver was back today). I heard her clarify the child's name and then she looked at me and nodded a nod of understanding.
Meanwhile, the principal wrote back that she had the letter and she would be meeting the bus when it arrived this morning to talk with both boys and the driver. She would be in touch after that.
By the time Kaylen and I returned from play group there was a message on the machine from the principal. The boy was not on the bus this morning but she did talk with the driver and it was determined that the boy, for the time being, will have an assigned seat near the driver. When the boy arrived at school, she brought both kids to her office to talk. The boy admitted what he had done (good first step!) and apologized to Kelton. After talking, the boys decided that they could be friends. Kelton was told that if anything like this happened again he was to come right to the principal.
So...all in all I'm happy with the resolution and I am relieved that I don't have to visualize myself storming the bus and having a talking to to the other boy. :) Because let me say this again - no one messes with my kid. No one makes him feel unsafe and afraid. No one.
I hate that kids are mean. And I dread the day that my kid is the mean one....and I hope like hell it doesn't happen. But I don't have on rose colored glasses about it either.
Being a mom is tough sometimes. *sigh*
Kelton got off the bus yesterday and one look was all I needed to know something was up. He ran up to me and started to spill everything. Apparently an older student had been bullying him for a few weeks; nothing Kelton couldn't handle apparently because this is the first I've heard of it. The boy was calling him names but stuck mostly to "stupid" and his younger brother was threatening Kelton that his brother was going to beat him up. (I asked why he hadn't told me and he said it didn't really bother him until now. Now he was scared.)
What brought this on? Well - from what Kelton can tell it was because the older boy and his brother found out that Kelton had kissed (on the neck) a girl from his class. Kelton told me about it the day the "kiss" happened and we had a heart to heart about why that isn't ok to do and, in the end, he knows he should never do it again. To me, it is totally a no big deal thing in the context it happened. I waited though and talked with Kelton about the possibility that he would be called to the office to discuss it. He never was and I assumed that was the end of it.
Apparently the older boy has been holding it over Kelton's head as a handy way to torture my poor kid.
Yesterday the older boy got physical. He grabbed Kelton, hit me, yanked a flyer out of his hands and called him names while threatening to "beat him".
Mama ain't havin' none of that.
I called the office immediately and was informed it needed to be in writing and sent with Kelton to his teacher who would then send it to the office. That could actually take a full day which would mean it probably wouldn't be handled until Monday.
Again, Mama ain't havin' none of that.
We were going in for parent teacher conference anyway (another post) so I hand delivered the letter to the office and was assured it would be given to the principal when she arrived in the morning.
Still not good enough for me.
I sent an email to the principal (who I have gotten to know because of the PTO) to inquire as to whether she got the letter and to ask for an update as soon as she had it.
I then put Kelton on the bus and had him tell his driver (yesterday was a sub. but his regular driver was back today). I heard her clarify the child's name and then she looked at me and nodded a nod of understanding.
Meanwhile, the principal wrote back that she had the letter and she would be meeting the bus when it arrived this morning to talk with both boys and the driver. She would be in touch after that.
By the time Kaylen and I returned from play group there was a message on the machine from the principal. The boy was not on the bus this morning but she did talk with the driver and it was determined that the boy, for the time being, will have an assigned seat near the driver. When the boy arrived at school, she brought both kids to her office to talk. The boy admitted what he had done (good first step!) and apologized to Kelton. After talking, the boys decided that they could be friends. Kelton was told that if anything like this happened again he was to come right to the principal.
So...all in all I'm happy with the resolution and I am relieved that I don't have to visualize myself storming the bus and having a talking to to the other boy. :) Because let me say this again - no one messes with my kid. No one makes him feel unsafe and afraid. No one.
I hate that kids are mean. And I dread the day that my kid is the mean one....and I hope like hell it doesn't happen. But I don't have on rose colored glasses about it either.
Being a mom is tough sometimes. *sigh*
Kaylen's Story
The story, as told by Kaylen:
Ok then. :)
Kaylen: See this mommy I just drew? This mommy is very, very angry.
Me: Ooooh? She is? Why is that?
Kaylen: Because her children took her to a bear cave.
Ok then. :)
Happy Halloween!!
This morning, after sending Kelton off to Crazy Hair and Hat day at school, Kaylen and I got busy getting her ready for her play group Halloween Party! To say the kids were excited today is putting it very, very mildly. :)
Here are a few pictures to enjoy! As you can see, part of Kaylen's fun involved decorating cookies. Yum!! (Thanks Mel!!! It was a great time!)
Kelton's crazy hair and hat:
Kaylen's Halloween Party:
Just a couple of my favorites:
Here are a few pictures to enjoy! As you can see, part of Kaylen's fun involved decorating cookies. Yum!! (Thanks Mel!!! It was a great time!)
Kelton's crazy hair and hat:
Kaylen's Halloween Party:
Just a couple of my favorites:
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Election Day Glitches?
Ok seriously. Why in the world would counties choose to change their voting machine processes in a presidential election year? WTF people. So the first "trial run" of the new voting process, which is bound to need fine tuning, is scheduled when the biggest election in four years is scheduled to take place. It makes NO SENSE!!! Try out your new machines and fancy technology during local-only elections. Not national elections. For crying out loud. This isn't rocket science people - it's common sense!!!!
Voting Machines Could Bring Election Day Glitches
So let me see if I have this right...they *know* there will be problems but they have no back-up plan in place? Lovely.
Oh that's ok people - it's not like this is one of the most important elections EVER. Take your time. Better yet - make sure that there are problems by not doing "trial runs" before a national election. This only affects ...oh...the entire COUNTRY! (did you hear the sarcasm dripping from the words?)
Voting Machines Could Bring Election Day Glitches
And some 9 million voters, including many in the battleground states of Ohio and Florida, will use equipment that has changed since March, increasing concerns about errors next Tuesday.
"You can be almost certain that there will be irregularities in some places around the country," said Rep. Rush Holt, D-New Jersey. "The problem now is that roughly a third of voters nationwide will use unverifiable electronic machines. So if there are uncertainties, there will be no way to resolve them."
So let me see if I have this right...they *know* there will be problems but they have no back-up plan in place? Lovely.
Oh that's ok people - it's not like this is one of the most important elections EVER. Take your time. Better yet - make sure that there are problems by not doing "trial runs" before a national election. This only affects ...oh...the entire COUNTRY! (did you hear the sarcasm dripping from the words?)
A Call For Prayers
I read a blog called Snarky Mommy. I found it on the night that their daughter was being born and the husband was live blogging it (a member of my moms club posted the link - it is a friend of hers). Last night I read something on there that broke my heart. Snarky Mommy (aka: Amy) has a friend whose 11 month old daughter had a choking/seizure incident which has left her in critical condition.
This morning there was a link to Jenny's blog and a request for prayers and thoughts. Please, if you are the praying sort, pray for little CiCi.
This morning there was a link to Jenny's blog and a request for prayers and thoughts. Please, if you are the praying sort, pray for little CiCi.
Margaret and Helen
It's time I actually share this blog with all of you instead of thinking about sharing it. I found it a few weeks back and I love it! It is written by two women in their 80's who have been best friends for 60 years. I believe that Helen does most (all?) of the writing and she is a pretty feisty lady. They get thousands of hits a day - it's quite a popular blog. :)
The post I read this morning was great - take the time to read it.
If you are undecided, then you're not paying attention.
The post I read this morning was great - take the time to read it.
If you are undecided, then you're not paying attention.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Americans Stories, American Solutions
Oh my gosh - if you didn't catch the 30 minute TV spot that Barack Obama did tonight you should. You absolutely should. And then you should vote.
This man, if we elect him as we should, will change the country and make it better and stronger and more alive than it has been in years. We need this change. We absolutely need the change that Barack Obama will bring.
So watch this...and then VOTE!!
This man, if we elect him as we should, will change the country and make it better and stronger and more alive than it has been in years. We need this change. We absolutely need the change that Barack Obama will bring.
So watch this...and then VOTE!!
Say It Ain't So, Joe!
Republican VP nominee Palin Eyeing 2012: Report
Wow. And I thought the Halloween decorations were frightening. *shudder*
Wow. And I thought the Halloween decorations were frightening. *shudder*
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Children
As I sat next to the tub tonight while Kaylen happily played in the bubbles chattering about this, that and the other thing my mind drifted a bit. Not because she was prattling on but rather because of *what* she was saying. She is one insightful child and I listened in awe as she went on and on and on about things.
I thought to myself "It's so strange that she is three years old. I have a three year old and a six year old. Weird."
Yes I know, it's a big ol' "duh" but let me explain. It's so strange because when I thought about having kids I thought about having "babies". Cute cuddly babies. Crawling babies. Barely walking and talking babies. I think most of us do. Babies. But babies grow up (far too quickly, I might add) and then you have these amazing human beings. They have their own thoughts, their own set of reasons and wants and needs and desires. They have their own goals for themselves (well - you know...goals like "I really want that from Santa. Write it on my list, ok Mom?" or goals as in learning to ride a bike to catch up with an older sibling or how to play a new video game. Not adult goals but child goals. Age appropriate goals.).
I am stunned sometimes when I look at my children and realize that we made them. I mean - I actually grew these incredible people inside my body. Isn't that trippy? We can grow human beings.
What was my point? Oh right - children. They are amazing. I just love the ages they are right now. It's perfect. I love the way they play together and interact. I love how casually they talk with each other without a need to involve me in their conversation. It's so strange and so wonderful.
Or maybe it was the menthol vapors from the Johnson and Johnson Soothing Vapor Baby Bath getting to me. :)
(and thankfully, Kaylen is doing much better today. Today was the first day in days and days that I could look at her and not get the tug of "Something is really wrong with her". What a relief!")
I thought to myself "It's so strange that she is three years old. I have a three year old and a six year old. Weird."
Yes I know, it's a big ol' "duh" but let me explain. It's so strange because when I thought about having kids I thought about having "babies". Cute cuddly babies. Crawling babies. Barely walking and talking babies. I think most of us do. Babies. But babies grow up (far too quickly, I might add) and then you have these amazing human beings. They have their own thoughts, their own set of reasons and wants and needs and desires. They have their own goals for themselves (well - you know...goals like "I really want that from Santa. Write it on my list, ok Mom?" or goals as in learning to ride a bike to catch up with an older sibling or how to play a new video game. Not adult goals but child goals. Age appropriate goals.).
I am stunned sometimes when I look at my children and realize that we made them. I mean - I actually grew these incredible people inside my body. Isn't that trippy? We can grow human beings.
What was my point? Oh right - children. They are amazing. I just love the ages they are right now. It's perfect. I love the way they play together and interact. I love how casually they talk with each other without a need to involve me in their conversation. It's so strange and so wonderful.
Or maybe it was the menthol vapors from the Johnson and Johnson Soothing Vapor Baby Bath getting to me. :)
(and thankfully, Kaylen is doing much better today. Today was the first day in days and days that I could look at her and not get the tug of "Something is really wrong with her". What a relief!")
Monday, October 27, 2008
Nothing New
I have nothing new to report today. Kaylen is still sick but tried her hardest to pretend she wasn't. That included talking me into a bike ride around the neighborhood. We didn't' actually make it all the way - not even half way really - before she finally admitted to needing to go home to rest. I have to give her credit though - she made it much further than I thought she would.
She is so tired of feeling yucky and sure don't blame her. I'm wishing for a passport to good health soon. We all deserve a break. This cold/croup/.crappy feeling has been in our house long enough now. Time for it to move along.
I have both kids sleeping in Kaylen's room tonight with the cool air humidifier going full blast. Hopefully that will help both of them (because oh yes - I forgot to mention; Kelton came home with a cough and sounds a bit stuffy AGAIN. Can you say "home school" with me. Ugh!).
It's only October, people. This is ridiculous. Might this be "The Halloween That Wasn't" for my kiddos? I sure hope not - they have really been looking forward to Halloween. Come on germs - go bug someone else!
She is so tired of feeling yucky and sure don't blame her. I'm wishing for a passport to good health soon. We all deserve a break. This cold/croup/.crappy feeling has been in our house long enough now. Time for it to move along.
I have both kids sleeping in Kaylen's room tonight with the cool air humidifier going full blast. Hopefully that will help both of them (because oh yes - I forgot to mention; Kelton came home with a cough and sounds a bit stuffy AGAIN. Can you say "home school" with me. Ugh!).
It's only October, people. This is ridiculous. Might this be "The Halloween That Wasn't" for my kiddos? I sure hope not - they have really been looking forward to Halloween. Come on germs - go bug someone else!
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Croup
Kaylen doesn't just have a cold - she also has croup. It's a first in our house as we've been fortunate enough to never have had to go through this before. But that's Kaylen for you - full of firsts. :)
The past two nights she had rough nights; waking up coughing a cough that, as Kelton so delicately put it, sounded like a cat throwing up over and over. Well - I wouldn't say that but it was a horrible sound. The first time she would cough and then go back to sleep with some cuddles. Last night was awful. We set up the cool air humidifier and we both slept in her room to comfort her with the coughs would jar her awake and she would cry from the pain in her throat.
This morning she was doing "ok". Ok enough for us to go ahead with our plans to take the kids to see WALL-E at the local "cheap seat" theater. About mid-way through I could tell her Motrin had worn off and she started to act "off". We came home after the movie and the kids poked their "Mr, Potato face pumpkin pieces" into their pumpkins (photos later) and then Dakota set about carving the main pumpkin. Through all this I was watching, and listening, to Kaylen.
I finally said "Honey - do you feel ok?" and she said no. Something tucked at my heart and I decided to take her to the Urgent Care clinic. And I'm glad I did. The pediatrician took a good look at her, did all the important checking, asked her to talk (she has a tight, almost non-existent voice) and cough. She double checked her immunizations (which are current) and asked if she might have been exposed to Whooping Cough. I had no idea. She said "Well - even if she had been, her immunity to it 'should' be intact so I am going to say she has a bad case of croup." They gave her an oral steroid to help with the constricting of her airway and had us wait around for 30 minutes to be sure she didn't react to it.
Then we were sent home with a sheet of instructions.
And to think two days ago I thought it was just a cold. I mean, I get that croup goes with colds but since we've never experienced it, it wasn't really on my radar. (Thank you Jeri! The information and phone message where helpful.)
So tonight I put a very pale and subdued Kaylen to bed and hopefully tonight she will breathe easier and tomorrow she will be much, much better.
The past two nights she had rough nights; waking up coughing a cough that, as Kelton so delicately put it, sounded like a cat throwing up over and over. Well - I wouldn't say that but it was a horrible sound. The first time she would cough and then go back to sleep with some cuddles. Last night was awful. We set up the cool air humidifier and we both slept in her room to comfort her with the coughs would jar her awake and she would cry from the pain in her throat.
This morning she was doing "ok". Ok enough for us to go ahead with our plans to take the kids to see WALL-E at the local "cheap seat" theater. About mid-way through I could tell her Motrin had worn off and she started to act "off". We came home after the movie and the kids poked their "Mr, Potato face pumpkin pieces" into their pumpkins (photos later) and then Dakota set about carving the main pumpkin. Through all this I was watching, and listening, to Kaylen.
I finally said "Honey - do you feel ok?" and she said no. Something tucked at my heart and I decided to take her to the Urgent Care clinic. And I'm glad I did. The pediatrician took a good look at her, did all the important checking, asked her to talk (she has a tight, almost non-existent voice) and cough. She double checked her immunizations (which are current) and asked if she might have been exposed to Whooping Cough. I had no idea. She said "Well - even if she had been, her immunity to it 'should' be intact so I am going to say she has a bad case of croup." They gave her an oral steroid to help with the constricting of her airway and had us wait around for 30 minutes to be sure she didn't react to it.
Then we were sent home with a sheet of instructions.
And to think two days ago I thought it was just a cold. I mean, I get that croup goes with colds but since we've never experienced it, it wasn't really on my radar. (Thank you Jeri! The information and phone message where helpful.)
So tonight I put a very pale and subdued Kaylen to bed and hopefully tonight she will breathe easier and tomorrow she will be much, much better.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Autumn Leaves and Kaylen
I shouldn't be home right now. The kids and I should be at a birthday party (Happy 3rd Birthday, T!! And Jeri - I am so, so sorry we aren't there!) that we all have been looking forward to however late last night it became evident that we would have to miss out on the fun and celebration as Kaylen's "not so bad cold" went from not so bad to miserable. Poor girl.
I honestly didn't predict her feeling this awful though I guess I should have since I know how awful *I* felt earlier this week. And once I downloaded the pictures I took of her yesterday, I can see hints of what was to come. Here are a couple:
There were many, many happy girl photos too so I put together a slideshow. Isn't she adorable? :)
Here are a few of my favorites just in case you don't watch the slideshow. :)
And now it's back to taking care of my little sick girl. Let's hope her cold doesn't stick around long.
I honestly didn't predict her feeling this awful though I guess I should have since I know how awful *I* felt earlier this week. And once I downloaded the pictures I took of her yesterday, I can see hints of what was to come. Here are a couple:
There were many, many happy girl photos too so I put together a slideshow. Isn't she adorable? :)
Here are a few of my favorites just in case you don't watch the slideshow. :)
And now it's back to taking care of my little sick girl. Let's hope her cold doesn't stick around long.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Really?
I swear - every time I think they can't surprise me any further they go one step more....
link to rest of story
What's that about lipstick on a pig? And what's that about "out of touch" and not to mention "I'm just like you." Yeah.
If Palin's $150,000 shopping spree had Republicans disgusted, then the report that her makeup stylist cost $22,800 for the first two weeks of October should have them livid. The stylist, Amy Strozzi, was apparently paid more than any other McCain staffer during that period.
link to rest of story
What's that about lipstick on a pig? And what's that about "out of touch" and not to mention "I'm just like you." Yeah.
Inspiring
In these times of uncertainty - with the fear that we all have about the economy, about well - everything (have you seen the stock market today? Not good. Not good at all.). This short video is truly inspiring. Eleven more days, people. Let's hope on the 12th day we wake up knowing the Change We Need is coming!!
Barack Obama at the "Change We Need" Rally in Richmond
PS...Have you voted yet?? Don't you dare let this election go by without your voice being heard.
****************************
And by the way.....interesting tidbits for you all:
Former MA governor Bill Weld, a Republican, endorsed Obama today.
Scott McClellan, Bush's former press secretary, endorsed Obama today.
And Arne Carlson, former popular Republican governor of Minnesota, endorsed Obama earlier this week.
If those in your own party do not support you, that says so very much indeed. Now go do your part and VOTE!
VOTE!
If you're voting mail-in/absentee, have you voted yet?
If not, why not?
Get on it people. Time is a wastin'.
VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE!!!!
If not, why not?
Get on it people. Time is a wastin'.
VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE VOTE!!!!
Thursday, October 23, 2008
First Grade School Picture
Just look at my baby!!!! (I'm not thrilled with the picture - I think they could have gotten him to smile and considering I was standing just off to the side when it was taken, I know for a fact that he *was* smiling - just not at the exact moment it was taken. Oh well. Next year. :))
And then look at him this time last year. Wow! He has changed so darn much! Long gone are those round baby cheeks. :)
And then look at him this time last year. Wow! He has changed so darn much! Long gone are those round baby cheeks. :)
Too Good To Leave Alone
You just knew I wouldn't be able to leave this one alone, right? I mean come on! $150,000 for a new wardrobe? The TLC Show "What Not To Wear" can completely re-dress people for $5,000 which I have to say is a lot of money. But $150,000??? In THIS economy?
True, she couldn't exactly dress like this on the campaign trail...or could she? What better way to speak to middle America and to relay that their struggles are her own? How many of us have clothes that we shouldn't have in our closets?
I know - picking apart her wardrobe is a bit shallow and probably has nothing to do with politics.....or does it? Actually it has a lot to do with politics. A lot.
The Final Undoing of Sarah Palin is a good read. Check it out.
True, she couldn't exactly dress like this on the campaign trail...or could she? What better way to speak to middle America and to relay that their struggles are her own? How many of us have clothes that we shouldn't have in our closets?
I know - picking apart her wardrobe is a bit shallow and probably has nothing to do with politics.....or does it? Actually it has a lot to do with politics. A lot.
The Final Undoing of Sarah Palin is a good read. Check it out.
John, John, John.
It's no secret that I am not a fan of John McCain for President. But I am afraid he has taken my dislike for him to a whole new level.
He has a new "attack ad" out.
"The Republican National Committee is distributing a mail piece that says "Terrorists" on the front and opens to a big picture of Barack saying "Not Who You Think He Is."
John McCain -- who promised to run a respectful campaign -- said that he was "absolutely" proud of it."
So...let's take a look at the definition of a terrorist, shall we?
Definition according to Wikipedia
Terrorism is the systematic use of terror especially as a means of coercion.[1] There is no internationally agreed definition of terrorism.[2][3] Most common definitions of terrorism include only those acts which are intended to create fear (terror), are perpetrated for an ideological goal (as opposed to a lone attack), and deliberately target or disregard the safety of non-combatants. Some definitions also include acts of unlawful violence and war.
Terrorism is also a form of unconventional warfare and psychological warfare. The word is politically and emotionally charged,[4] and this greatly compounds the difficulty of providing a precise definition. One 1988 study by the US Army found that over 100 definitions of the word "terrorism" have been used.[5] A person who practices terrorism is a terrorist. The concept of terrorism is itself controversial because it is often used by states to deligitimize political opponents, and thus legitimize the state's own use of terror against those opponents.
Terrorism has been used by a broad array of political organizations in furthering their objectives; both right-wing and left-wing political parties, nationalistic, and religious groups, revolutionaries and ruling governments.[6] The presence of non-state actors in widespread armed conflict has created controversy regarding the application of the laws of war.
While acts of terrorism are criminal acts as per the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1373 and domestic jurisprudence of almost all countries in the world, terrorism refers to a phenomenon including the actual acts, the perpetrators of acts of terrorism themselves and their motives. There is disagreement on definitions of terrorism.
So let's see....let's highlight the part that jumps out at me:
Interesting. That is exactly what John McCain is doing; creating fear. That makes WHO the terrorist? Oh right - John McCain and his posse.
I don't know - when you have to stoop to such a low level as that maybe it's time to take a good long look in the mirror to see if the person you have become is truly the person you want to be.
Knock it off, John. You are totally coming off as a scared old man and God help us all if the majority of the country falls for it.
He has a new "attack ad" out.
"The Republican National Committee is distributing a mail piece that says "Terrorists" on the front and opens to a big picture of Barack saying "Not Who You Think He Is."
John McCain -- who promised to run a respectful campaign -- said that he was "absolutely" proud of it."
So...let's take a look at the definition of a terrorist, shall we?
Definition according to Wikipedia
Terrorism is the systematic use of terror especially as a means of coercion.[1] There is no internationally agreed definition of terrorism.[2][3] Most common definitions of terrorism include only those acts which are intended to create fear (terror), are perpetrated for an ideological goal (as opposed to a lone attack), and deliberately target or disregard the safety of non-combatants. Some definitions also include acts of unlawful violence and war.
Terrorism is also a form of unconventional warfare and psychological warfare. The word is politically and emotionally charged,[4] and this greatly compounds the difficulty of providing a precise definition. One 1988 study by the US Army found that over 100 definitions of the word "terrorism" have been used.[5] A person who practices terrorism is a terrorist. The concept of terrorism is itself controversial because it is often used by states to deligitimize political opponents, and thus legitimize the state's own use of terror against those opponents.
Terrorism has been used by a broad array of political organizations in furthering their objectives; both right-wing and left-wing political parties, nationalistic, and religious groups, revolutionaries and ruling governments.[6] The presence of non-state actors in widespread armed conflict has created controversy regarding the application of the laws of war.
While acts of terrorism are criminal acts as per the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1373 and domestic jurisprudence of almost all countries in the world, terrorism refers to a phenomenon including the actual acts, the perpetrators of acts of terrorism themselves and their motives. There is disagreement on definitions of terrorism.
So let's see....let's highlight the part that jumps out at me:
Most common definitions of terrorism include only those acts which are intended to create fear (terror), are perpetrated for an ideological goal
Interesting. That is exactly what John McCain is doing; creating fear. That makes WHO the terrorist? Oh right - John McCain and his posse.
I don't know - when you have to stoop to such a low level as that maybe it's time to take a good long look in the mirror to see if the person you have become is truly the person you want to be.
Knock it off, John. You are totally coming off as a scared old man and God help us all if the majority of the country falls for it.
Conservatives for Change
I've got lots to share today (providing I have time to get them all up). So keep coming by. :)
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Too Cute!
Ok - now these are the times I wish I could buy memory for my own brain. Kaylen was just about the cutest thing ever today and I want to commit the entire day to memory for forever.
Just check out the outfit she settled on this afternoon (and for a long while it was just the headband, the undershirt and her flip flops. Now *there* was a picture!).
Doesn't it conjure up images of Flash Dance or maybe Fame? :)
Later in the afternoon, we went on a nature walk....well...I walked, she rode her Dora trike because it had a pouch on the front in which to put treasures. I couldn't really argue that logic. :) I'm sure we were quite a sight to behold!
After our walk/ride/treasure hunt she decided to draw with chalk on the patio. Check out her flowers - and one giant leaf. Her creativity really gets to me - I just love it!
She is just too much!
PS..Have you voted yet???
PPS...If you haven't seen the post I did earlier today (slideshows!), the keep reading. I worked a long time on them so spend a few minutes enjoying them, ok? :)
Just check out the outfit she settled on this afternoon (and for a long while it was just the headband, the undershirt and her flip flops. Now *there* was a picture!).
Doesn't it conjure up images of Flash Dance or maybe Fame? :)
Later in the afternoon, we went on a nature walk....well...I walked, she rode her Dora trike because it had a pouch on the front in which to put treasures. I couldn't really argue that logic. :) I'm sure we were quite a sight to behold!
After our walk/ride/treasure hunt she decided to draw with chalk on the patio. Check out her flowers - and one giant leaf. Her creativity really gets to me - I just love it!
She is just too much!
PS..Have you voted yet???
PPS...If you haven't seen the post I did earlier today (slideshows!), the keep reading. I worked a long time on them so spend a few minutes enjoying them, ok? :)
Nothing But Time
I have spent waaay too long working on these today. It's a good thing Kaylen is a good "on her own" kind of girl. :)
This first slideshow is my beach weekend with my BFF's Jeri and Mel. I know they are going to squeal about the photos of them but hey - to be fair I put in awful ones of me, too. :)
Enjoy!
This next one is of Dakota, Kelton and Kaylen's full day (7 hours!) at the zoo on the Saturday I was gone. It looks like they had so much fun and I love hearing all their stories. And Dakota was sweet enough to send photos on her phone throughout the day. It was almost like being there! (Thanks, honey!) I know the three of them had a great weekend while I was away - so much fun was had and I have loved hearing all about it. And that big bandaid across Kelton's face? That is covering an injury that he received at school the day before. He was running to catch up with his class and tripped. His poor face got the brunt of it though there are many scrapes all over his poor little body. Poor buddy! It's healing up and looks much better now. They sent a camera taken photo of it on Friday night - it brought tears to my eyes:
So without further delay; here is their trip to the zoo!
This first slideshow is my beach weekend with my BFF's Jeri and Mel. I know they are going to squeal about the photos of them but hey - to be fair I put in awful ones of me, too. :)
Enjoy!
This next one is of Dakota, Kelton and Kaylen's full day (7 hours!) at the zoo on the Saturday I was gone. It looks like they had so much fun and I love hearing all their stories. And Dakota was sweet enough to send photos on her phone throughout the day. It was almost like being there! (Thanks, honey!) I know the three of them had a great weekend while I was away - so much fun was had and I have loved hearing all about it. And that big bandaid across Kelton's face? That is covering an injury that he received at school the day before. He was running to catch up with his class and tripped. His poor face got the brunt of it though there are many scrapes all over his poor little body. Poor buddy! It's healing up and looks much better now. They sent a camera taken photo of it on Friday night - it brought tears to my eyes:
So without further delay; here is their trip to the zoo!
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Colds, Shoes, PTO and Slideshows
First order of business: I still have this miserable cold. I promise you I haven't had a cold hit me this hard since Kelton was an infant. Why do I know that for sure? Because when you are hit this hard by a cold you tend to remember it. I remember feeling incredibly wiped out while caring for an infant. I remember sitting on the living room floor counting the minutes until Dakota would walk in the door so I could curl up in a corner and whimper. I've had countless colds in the 6 years since then but none do I remember. Until this one. It's icky. And I'm tired of it. Dakota has it too and I know she feels the exact same way. Blah.
Second order of business: Shoes. I am still dreaming of a great pair of shoes that not only look great (and grown up) but that are super comfortable (and dare I add "affordable" to my wish list?). Someone told me about Beautifeel. I plan to look into it more when I feel better.
Third: PTO. Somehow, even though I know for certain that I did not volunteer for it, I have been placed on the budget committee. So not what I want to do though I have been promised it will be a "one meeting" deal to draw up the projected budget. We'll see. I'm not looking forward to it. I also spent a good deal of time today working on another project for the PTO. I created a document and then went out to the copy place to make 500 copies. Only - the machine broke down about half way through. I left it with them and they will have it ready in the morning for me. And oh right - the color copies that the PTO wanted are not in the copy card that the PTO has soooo...that will be $50.00 plus tax when I pick up the project. Niiiiiiiice. Sure, I can get reimbursed (I am, after all, on the budget committee, right?) but parting with the money upfront isn't what I had planned. *sigh*
Fourth up is the slideshow I am trying to put together of my "BFF weekend". I have the photos mostly loaded onto the website but I still have more to go through to make sure I capture the feel of the time together. And then I have to find songs. Do you have any ideas for me? Theme: friends, beach, fall.....something. Anything spring to mind?
I guess that's about it from this super congested head. Hopefully tomorrow I will wake to a more human feeling because honestly? It's been a week now and I'm ready to be done.
Ahhh-choooo!
Second order of business: Shoes. I am still dreaming of a great pair of shoes that not only look great (and grown up) but that are super comfortable (and dare I add "affordable" to my wish list?). Someone told me about Beautifeel. I plan to look into it more when I feel better.
Third: PTO. Somehow, even though I know for certain that I did not volunteer for it, I have been placed on the budget committee. So not what I want to do though I have been promised it will be a "one meeting" deal to draw up the projected budget. We'll see. I'm not looking forward to it. I also spent a good deal of time today working on another project for the PTO. I created a document and then went out to the copy place to make 500 copies. Only - the machine broke down about half way through. I left it with them and they will have it ready in the morning for me. And oh right - the color copies that the PTO wanted are not in the copy card that the PTO has soooo...that will be $50.00 plus tax when I pick up the project. Niiiiiiiice. Sure, I can get reimbursed (I am, after all, on the budget committee, right?) but parting with the money upfront isn't what I had planned. *sigh*
Fourth up is the slideshow I am trying to put together of my "BFF weekend". I have the photos mostly loaded onto the website but I still have more to go through to make sure I capture the feel of the time together. And then I have to find songs. Do you have any ideas for me? Theme: friends, beach, fall.....something. Anything spring to mind?
I guess that's about it from this super congested head. Hopefully tomorrow I will wake to a more human feeling because honestly? It's been a week now and I'm ready to be done.
Ahhh-choooo!
I Voted
The ballots arrived at households across the state over the weekend and so yesterday morning I put pen to ballot and voted. I encourage all you Washingtonians to do the same...and soon. Why put it off? Why have that precious ballot sitting on your kitchen counter waiting for a child to knock a glass of juice all over it? Why let it get buried under the piles of things that need attention? Don't you dare let this chance to have your say go unheeded. Don't you dare. (Unless you plan to vote for someone other than I think you should vote for - then by all means, let the juice spill. Hee hee.)
What struck me, as I cast my vote for the presidency was how many people are running for that office. I knew there would be the Independent party and the Green party but there is also the Socialism and Liberation Party, the Socialist Workers Party, the Libertarian Party and the Constitution Party.
What? Seriously? I think this is insane (and since it's my blog I get to say that. Hee hee.). People, people, people - this is way too important of a time in history to basically throw your vote into the wind. Yes, it would be nice if someone outside the two big parties could come in and make a difference but the fact of the matter is; no one from these SIX other parties can win. Read that again: THEY. CANNOT. WIN. Not that maybe they shouldn't win but the fact is they realistically cannot win. They do not have the power behind them. So voting for them is throwing your vote away....and actually, worse yet, for all the high ideals and reasons you want to vote for them you are really doing the opposite; a vote for the other parties boils down to a vote for the Republican ticket. Ironically, this is the exact opposite of what you are seeking to do. Think about that.
I heard in the news this morning that Nader had a packed house at the rally last night in Portland. I can only shake my head and wonder if these people, who want change so much they can taste it, realize what their vote for Nader will mean.
It's fact. The six other parties running cannot win. At all. Not at this time in history. So make your vote count. Please.
(my front yard)
What struck me, as I cast my vote for the presidency was how many people are running for that office. I knew there would be the Independent party and the Green party but there is also the Socialism and Liberation Party, the Socialist Workers Party, the Libertarian Party and the Constitution Party.
What? Seriously? I think this is insane (and since it's my blog I get to say that. Hee hee.). People, people, people - this is way too important of a time in history to basically throw your vote into the wind. Yes, it would be nice if someone outside the two big parties could come in and make a difference but the fact of the matter is; no one from these SIX other parties can win. Read that again: THEY. CANNOT. WIN. Not that maybe they shouldn't win but the fact is they realistically cannot win. They do not have the power behind them. So voting for them is throwing your vote away....and actually, worse yet, for all the high ideals and reasons you want to vote for them you are really doing the opposite; a vote for the other parties boils down to a vote for the Republican ticket. Ironically, this is the exact opposite of what you are seeking to do. Think about that.
I heard in the news this morning that Nader had a packed house at the rally last night in Portland. I can only shake my head and wonder if these people, who want change so much they can taste it, realize what their vote for Nader will mean.
It's fact. The six other parties running cannot win. At all. Not at this time in history. So make your vote count. Please.
(my front yard)
Sunday, October 19, 2008
BFF Weekend
I'm home - did you miss me? :) While it's nice to be home again I sure wasn't ready to come back. My friends, Jeri and Mel, and I had a fantastic time filled with deep talks, way too many laughs and plenty of shopping. I am still quite under the weather with my cold (sorry Jeri - I really hope you manage to escape the germs Mel and I were spewing on you. Hee hee!) and I am really tired so I'll just post a couple pictures and then will do a real post when I am more awake. Suffice it to say though that we had an amazingly great weekend and now we all know almost everything there is to know about each other. :)
Thanks, girls! I really and truly had a great time and I can't wait to do it again someday in the (hopefully not-to distant) future.
Thanks, girls! I really and truly had a great time and I can't wait to do it again someday in the (hopefully not-to distant) future.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Obama and ACORN
Since this came up in the comment section today, I once again encourage everyone to do their homework and make their decision based upon the FACTS they find. Not allegations. Not rumors. And certainly not in emails spread like wildfire across the Internet.
Barack Obama Never Organized with ACORN
No matter what you read, no matter what people tell you: you must do your own research and come to your own conclusions. My conclusion is he knew nothing about what a few people were doing anymore than I think McCain knew about Joe the Plumbers history when he held him up for all the world to admire. I, for one, have no admiration for people who do not pay their taxes. But I do not hold this against McCain - it isn't his fault Joe didn't pay his taxes. And it isn't Obama's fault that a few people did wrong.
And that's it from me - I'm heading to the beach. Have a good weekend, everyone!
Barack Obama Never Organized with ACORN
No matter what you read, no matter what people tell you: you must do your own research and come to your own conclusions. My conclusion is he knew nothing about what a few people were doing anymore than I think McCain knew about Joe the Plumbers history when he held him up for all the world to admire. I, for one, have no admiration for people who do not pay their taxes. But I do not hold this against McCain - it isn't his fault Joe didn't pay his taxes. And it isn't Obama's fault that a few people did wrong.
And that's it from me - I'm heading to the beach. Have a good weekend, everyone!
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Yowsa!
I'm busy these days. I really thought when Kelton was in school full time that I would struggle to fill the hours for Kaylen and myself but nope - before I turn around twice, it's time to go meet the school bus and start all the evening craziness. I'm just not sure where the time goes.
I'm still struggling with my cold but at least the sore throat part only lasted about 24 hours. I'm grateful for that as I really do not enjoy the sore throat experience. Ever. Now I have congestion and a cough and my sinus' literally feel like they are going to explode. Cold medicine and I are not the friendly sort (it makes me feel way too strange) so I just deal. No fun but I find comfort in counting the days...three days coming, three days staying and three days leaving. Except the cough. Which I am sure I will have until spring as is the case every autumn.
Tonight I have a PTO (Parent Teacher Organization) meeting and since the president is going to be late, I get the run the thing. Joy. I guess it's ok though since my name appears on the agenda over and over and over again. :)
Tomorrow I am packing up and heading out for my very first weekend with friends. It's strange actually and I find I have a bit of anxiety over leaving. I know the kids will be in the excellent hands of the only other person on this earth who lives them as fiercely as I do but it's strange knowing it won't be *my* hands. See - I've never, ever, ever been away from the kids for more than a few hours (well - there was the three days away from Kelton (though I saw him each and every day) when Kaylen was born but I'm not convinced that really counts). And I have never been away for Kaylen. But something tells me I won't need a GPS to find my way back to them. :)
We will all be fine. This I know. It's just weird. I have to say though - I am already looking forward to the looks on their faces when they see me on Sunday. :) Sure- they might be more interested in the gift I promised each of them but I'll just pretend their squeals of glee are for me.
For the past couple of days I have been preparing them and I think we are all as ready as we can be. Kaylen has moments of getting teary when she talks about it but then I remind her of all the fun things Mama has planned for them and she perks right back up.
So where am I going? A few friends and I are escaping to the coast to stay in the beach home of one friend's father. I think it will be a really great time! It's the beach - what's not to love? :)
(and yes, I watched the debate. I have nothing to add that I haven't already said except: Friends don't let friends vote Republican. *grin*)
I'm still struggling with my cold but at least the sore throat part only lasted about 24 hours. I'm grateful for that as I really do not enjoy the sore throat experience. Ever. Now I have congestion and a cough and my sinus' literally feel like they are going to explode. Cold medicine and I are not the friendly sort (it makes me feel way too strange) so I just deal. No fun but I find comfort in counting the days...three days coming, three days staying and three days leaving. Except the cough. Which I am sure I will have until spring as is the case every autumn.
Tonight I have a PTO (Parent Teacher Organization) meeting and since the president is going to be late, I get the run the thing. Joy. I guess it's ok though since my name appears on the agenda over and over and over again. :)
Tomorrow I am packing up and heading out for my very first weekend with friends. It's strange actually and I find I have a bit of anxiety over leaving. I know the kids will be in the excellent hands of the only other person on this earth who lives them as fiercely as I do but it's strange knowing it won't be *my* hands. See - I've never, ever, ever been away from the kids for more than a few hours (well - there was the three days away from Kelton (though I saw him each and every day) when Kaylen was born but I'm not convinced that really counts). And I have never been away for Kaylen. But something tells me I won't need a GPS to find my way back to them. :)
We will all be fine. This I know. It's just weird. I have to say though - I am already looking forward to the looks on their faces when they see me on Sunday. :) Sure- they might be more interested in the gift I promised each of them but I'll just pretend their squeals of glee are for me.
For the past couple of days I have been preparing them and I think we are all as ready as we can be. Kaylen has moments of getting teary when she talks about it but then I remind her of all the fun things Mama has planned for them and she perks right back up.
So where am I going? A few friends and I are escaping to the coast to stay in the beach home of one friend's father. I think it will be a really great time! It's the beach - what's not to love? :)
(and yes, I watched the debate. I have nothing to add that I haven't already said except: Friends don't let friends vote Republican. *grin*)
But Before I Go....
Joe the Plumber seems to have a few leaks in his story. Oh yes - it's true. The man that McCain held up as a symbol of someone chasing the American Dream of owning his own plumbing business seems to have a few issues of his own to work out. As in; he isn't a licensed plumber (not that he needs to be to own a business) and he owes back taxes. Upstanding citizen? Wel..that's debatable. Check it out.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Portrait Wednesday
I took Kaylen to The Picture People today because just this morning I received in my email an awesome coupon - buy 1 get 2 free. (Check out their website if free picture excite you as much as they do me). Kaylen has been wanting her photo taken for weeks now but has really doubled her efforts in the past couple of days when she came across a fancy Christmas dress that her cousin handed down. She has worn this dress almost constantly since pulling it from her fall/winter clothing bin and claims it to be her "wedding dress" and those shoes? You guessed it "wedding shoes". Who is she marrying? Oh it depends on the time of day. If Kelton is around, it's him but if not any old doll will do. I was given two medium sized scarecrows this week and they do seem to be a favored "wedding person". I wasn't crazy about the fancy dress poses that we got but Kaylen loved the one below and begged to have it for her room. What could I do? :)
The other outfit was my choice and I love, love, love the photos. The sweater is something I bought when she was about 6 months old and I've waited all this time for her to grow into it. I wish she would wear jeans and sweaters at other times besides pictures but at least I have the pictures. Isn't she just adorable???
The other outfit was my choice and I love, love, love the photos. The sweater is something I bought when she was about 6 months old and I've waited all this time for her to grow into it. I wish she would wear jeans and sweaters at other times besides pictures but at least I have the pictures. Isn't she just adorable???
Prop. 8 in California
I am copying and pasting this directly from Pieces of Gray, a blog I read faithfully. It showcases an article that talks about how the Mormon (LDS) church is working hard to assure they same-sex couples do not have the right to marry.
If you want to help fund the side that says we should have the right, please consider donating to the effort through www.eqca.org . Wake up on November 5th knowing that you did what you could to help. Even $5.00 would help. I dontated in the name of Dakota and myself. Please consider doing the same.
From Pieces of Gray:
The Sacramento Bee has an article today about the “sacrifices” that members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints have made so that they can take away the right to marry from same-sex couples.
Rick and Pam Patterson gave $50,000. He drives a 10-year-old Honda Civic to his job at Intel. She is a stay-at home mom who makes most of the family meals and bakes her own bread. The couple, who have five sons between the ages of 3 and 12, live in a comfortable but modest three-bedroom home in Folsom.
David and Susan Nielson gave $35,000. The couple will forgo a vacation for the next two years and make other sacrifices to pay for their donation, he said.
Yes, they are faithful members of their church. And while the couples deny that they were pressured to contribute, both couples did so after the June 29 letter came out from the First Presidency and the church leadership requesting that Mormons “do what you can”.
However, this sacrifice seems not to have extended to the leaders actually contributing from their own personal funds. A search of the contribution database listing all contributors of $100 or more yields:
• President and Prophet Thomas Monson - $0.00
• 1st Counselor Henry Eyring - $0.00
• 2nd Counselor Dieter Uchtdorf - $0.00
• Apostle Boyd Packer - $0.00
• Apostle L. Tom Perry - $0.00
• Apostle Russell Nelson - $0.00
• Apostle Dallin Oaks - $0.00
• Apostle M. Russell Ballard - $0.00
• Apostle Joseph Wirthlin - $0.00
• Apostle Richard Scott - $0.00
• Apostle Robert D. Hales - $0.00
• Apostle Jeffery Holland - $0.00
• Apostle David Bednar - $0.00
• Apostle Quentin Cook - $0.00
• Apostle C. Todd Christofferson - $0.00
Perhaps “our best efforts” means something different to the leaders than it does to the followers. & perhaps you should ask your fellow “followers” if it matters to them that their “leaders” aren’t acting in the way they’re asking of there followers. Blech.
So people, seriously - rally your followers and let’s stop this. Go to www.eqca.org to donate whatever you can. & if you’re not in a place to donate cash, you can also sign up to make phone calls to CA residents - just like “the church” is doing.
If you want to help fund the side that says we should have the right, please consider donating to the effort through www.eqca.org . Wake up on November 5th knowing that you did what you could to help. Even $5.00 would help. I dontated in the name of Dakota and myself. Please consider doing the same.
From Pieces of Gray:
The Sacramento Bee has an article today about the “sacrifices” that members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints have made so that they can take away the right to marry from same-sex couples.
Rick and Pam Patterson gave $50,000. He drives a 10-year-old Honda Civic to his job at Intel. She is a stay-at home mom who makes most of the family meals and bakes her own bread. The couple, who have five sons between the ages of 3 and 12, live in a comfortable but modest three-bedroom home in Folsom.
David and Susan Nielson gave $35,000. The couple will forgo a vacation for the next two years and make other sacrifices to pay for their donation, he said.
Yes, they are faithful members of their church. And while the couples deny that they were pressured to contribute, both couples did so after the June 29 letter came out from the First Presidency and the church leadership requesting that Mormons “do what you can”.
However, this sacrifice seems not to have extended to the leaders actually contributing from their own personal funds. A search of the contribution database listing all contributors of $100 or more yields:
• President and Prophet Thomas Monson - $0.00
• 1st Counselor Henry Eyring - $0.00
• 2nd Counselor Dieter Uchtdorf - $0.00
• Apostle Boyd Packer - $0.00
• Apostle L. Tom Perry - $0.00
• Apostle Russell Nelson - $0.00
• Apostle Dallin Oaks - $0.00
• Apostle M. Russell Ballard - $0.00
• Apostle Joseph Wirthlin - $0.00
• Apostle Richard Scott - $0.00
• Apostle Robert D. Hales - $0.00
• Apostle Jeffery Holland - $0.00
• Apostle David Bednar - $0.00
• Apostle Quentin Cook - $0.00
• Apostle C. Todd Christofferson - $0.00
Perhaps “our best efforts” means something different to the leaders than it does to the followers. & perhaps you should ask your fellow “followers” if it matters to them that their “leaders” aren’t acting in the way they’re asking of there followers. Blech.
So people, seriously - rally your followers and let’s stop this. Go to www.eqca.org to donate whatever you can. & if you’re not in a place to donate cash, you can also sign up to make phone calls to CA residents - just like “the church” is doing.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Pumpkin Patch 2008
I'm not feeling very chatty tonight as I have a wicked sore throat and cold but I did put together a slideshow of our trip to the pumpkin patch. Enjoy!
Monday, October 13, 2008
Think Before You Speak
This is a great campaign because honestly, I am so, so, so tired of hearing people say "That's so gay." A couple weeks ago we were in Blockbuster and heard it come from a teenage girl....and I wish I had thought at that second to say something. I didn't (and neither did Dakota who also heard it though we did talk amongst ourselves loud enough to (hopefully) be heard)but next time I think I will. This girl just happened to be with a parent (hers or one of her friends) who did tell her to not say it and that it wasn't ok to say which we were happy to hear.
Watch all three PSA's (public service announcements)- and maybe next time you hear it come from someone you can add your voice to the voices saying "Knock it off!"
Think Before You Speak
Pass it on.
Watch all three PSA's (public service announcements)- and maybe next time you hear it come from someone you can add your voice to the voices saying "Knock it off!"
Think Before You Speak
Pass it on.
My Crazy Wild Weekend: part 1
Where to start? I guess Friday morning around 9:30 would be good. :)
The kids and I headed to the airport to pick up my friend, Kristen who flew from California to spend the weekend with us. I've known Kristen for about 5 years on-line (lesbian mom parenting group) but had never met her in person. From photos I've seen over the years, it was easy to pick her out of the throng of people heading to baggage claim and I'm sure it was just as easy for her to find me since I was flanked by two well-photographed children. :)
We picked up her luggage and headed for home. Once here, we got everyone settled in and fed and then Kristen and I got about the business of catching up on things. The kids seemed to take to Kristen like bees to honey so a simple conversation proved challenging. Soon enough though Dakota was home and that took a lot of the kids attention from Kristen and I as they crawled all over Dakota.
Kelton and Dakota left with Maddie (the dog) to take her to a recheck vet appointment (I never did post about how Maddie almost lost her eye when the cat, Lucy, poked her claw directly through Maddie's cornea last week. These two have never managed to find a way to get along and I think Lucy had just had enough. I can't say I blame the cat but the resulting chaos (and cost) was tremendous. Luckily, Maddie will not lose her eye but she does have a pretty good scar to learn to see around. And all of this seems to have taught Maddie nothing. She still bugs the cat. Grrrrr.) and Kaylen, Kristen and I took Jordan (other dog) on a walk.
After the walk, Kaylen entertained us by playing in the pile of leaves that I raked together for her.
From there we moved to the backyard to play in the sandbox and then Kaylen got the wild idea to play football with her new best friend, Kristen. I was all too happy to watch and take pictures. :)
Soon after, Dakota and the gang returned and Kristen and I escaped for dinner at Red Robin. :)
The next day Kristen was kind enough to help me finish painting the living room and dining room. It probably would have only taken 2.5 hours from start to finish had it not been for the helpful hands of two small children. Thankfully, they only "helped" for about 20 minutes but wow - what a 20 minutes. And then the clean up of, and from, their helping (including a trip to the tub for both kids) took about another 20. They were thrilled to help - and I was pretty happy when their helping stopped. :) It was sobering to realize how much more time it really will take to paint the rest of the interior with little ones underfoot. Ugh. (Thanks, Kristen! You really were awesome to help!)
By the time painting was done and cleaned up, Dakota was done studying so we all headed out to Azteca for lunch and then, on a whim, we headed to Multnomah Falls and hiked/walked up for a closer look. It was really cold there - and I was seriously wishing I had worn a heavier jacket.
We drove home, fed the kids (after they played another round of football with Kristen (I lost count how many times they talked her into playing over the course of the weekend)), put the living and dining rooms back into order and then tossed the kids into bed. The grown-ups savored a few hours of talking before we, too, hit the pillows.
Sunday morning Kaylen I dropped Kristen off at the airport right around 8AM. It was sad to see her go but we sure had a jam-packed good weekend. Thanks for coming up, Kristen!!! Let's do it again sometime - and next time, bring the little one - I'm sure she and Kaylen would have a blast together. :)
Sunday turned out to be a wirlwind day, too. Stay tuned for details of our trip to the theater, a park and the pumpkin patch!
The kids and I headed to the airport to pick up my friend, Kristen who flew from California to spend the weekend with us. I've known Kristen for about 5 years on-line (lesbian mom parenting group) but had never met her in person. From photos I've seen over the years, it was easy to pick her out of the throng of people heading to baggage claim and I'm sure it was just as easy for her to find me since I was flanked by two well-photographed children. :)
We picked up her luggage and headed for home. Once here, we got everyone settled in and fed and then Kristen and I got about the business of catching up on things. The kids seemed to take to Kristen like bees to honey so a simple conversation proved challenging. Soon enough though Dakota was home and that took a lot of the kids attention from Kristen and I as they crawled all over Dakota.
Kelton and Dakota left with Maddie (the dog) to take her to a recheck vet appointment (I never did post about how Maddie almost lost her eye when the cat, Lucy, poked her claw directly through Maddie's cornea last week. These two have never managed to find a way to get along and I think Lucy had just had enough. I can't say I blame the cat but the resulting chaos (and cost) was tremendous. Luckily, Maddie will not lose her eye but she does have a pretty good scar to learn to see around. And all of this seems to have taught Maddie nothing. She still bugs the cat. Grrrrr.) and Kaylen, Kristen and I took Jordan (other dog) on a walk.
After the walk, Kaylen entertained us by playing in the pile of leaves that I raked together for her.
From there we moved to the backyard to play in the sandbox and then Kaylen got the wild idea to play football with her new best friend, Kristen. I was all too happy to watch and take pictures. :)
Soon after, Dakota and the gang returned and Kristen and I escaped for dinner at Red Robin. :)
The next day Kristen was kind enough to help me finish painting the living room and dining room. It probably would have only taken 2.5 hours from start to finish had it not been for the helpful hands of two small children. Thankfully, they only "helped" for about 20 minutes but wow - what a 20 minutes. And then the clean up of, and from, their helping (including a trip to the tub for both kids) took about another 20. They were thrilled to help - and I was pretty happy when their helping stopped. :) It was sobering to realize how much more time it really will take to paint the rest of the interior with little ones underfoot. Ugh. (Thanks, Kristen! You really were awesome to help!)
By the time painting was done and cleaned up, Dakota was done studying so we all headed out to Azteca for lunch and then, on a whim, we headed to Multnomah Falls and hiked/walked up for a closer look. It was really cold there - and I was seriously wishing I had worn a heavier jacket.
We drove home, fed the kids (after they played another round of football with Kristen (I lost count how many times they talked her into playing over the course of the weekend)), put the living and dining rooms back into order and then tossed the kids into bed. The grown-ups savored a few hours of talking before we, too, hit the pillows.
Sunday morning Kaylen I dropped Kristen off at the airport right around 8AM. It was sad to see her go but we sure had a jam-packed good weekend. Thanks for coming up, Kristen!!! Let's do it again sometime - and next time, bring the little one - I'm sure she and Kaylen would have a blast together. :)
Sunday turned out to be a wirlwind day, too. Stay tuned for details of our trip to the theater, a park and the pumpkin patch!
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