Cabbage & Wienerschnitzel

2013-08-04T14:54:00.004-07:00

Schools begun!!

(UCK!?!)

Our schedule is going to be another busy one this year.

Monday co-op,

Wednesday tutor

and

FRIDAY FUN DAY

could be near!!

Pool parties, birthday parties, and mud runs have to wait.

BECAUSE

In our education we will sore to a new height!!

Taking over MOM's Blog! :)

2013-06-28T17:35:00.000-07:00

HI!! Welcome back folks!

My Mom doesn't really use this sight anymore. She forgot her password and then she forgot how to post. She said she's to busy .... cooking and cleaning.

Truthfully, she's busy getting ready to run another marathon!

The next one is in Washington DC.

We are really excited when she runs in other parts of the country because we get to visit to new places and see the sights.

She runs quite a bit and a long way, sometimes we follow her on our bikes. BUT we get tired and she gets grumpy. Although, she is a lot of fun and we have a great time together!

More about her later.

If your interested I'm sure she'll post about her training.

(OR Just ask my cousin Kathryn!!)

(Sorry. It's an inside joke.)

ANYWAY...

SOOO my brother and I decided to take over her blog! :)

She gave us permission.

Really.

No. Really she did.

(She or Dad will surely check it our before we put anything on it! )

That's our Dad. He's one of the best people in the world.

More about him later.

If you pay close attention, we might teach you how to chase rabbits, build swords and shields, clean a toilet, do laundry, maybe even cook. We might discuss best and worst lego designs, talk about our Nana, our cousins, family life, homeschooling, picture taking or maybe not, but rest assured we will have lots of stuff!

(As long as Mom remembers her passcode and both parents approve our post.)

Okay, on to more important things...

Guess what? My birthday is coming up soon!

July 4th ~ big day around here!

That's my older brother, he is a lot of fun,

you got the drill, more about him later too.

Think I will show a bit of the country my spirit!!

Let's set off some fireworks?!! :)

AND

Then leave a message and encourages us to post!!

Happy Birthday James!

2012-03-12T06:07:00.000-07:00

Twenty three years ago I was in my ninth month past my expectant due date in March curiously awaiting the arrival of my first born. On March 9, 1989 I was working at a local newspaper selling ads when I felt my first contraction. I immediately called my doctor and then my oldest sister who synonymously told me to wait because there was a lot more fun to be had before I could meet one of God's greatest creations.

On the morning of March 10 I was admitted into the hospital only to find out that I still had quite a long wait which I took to mean an hour or two. While in and out of contractions my Mother came in for a visit to see how things where progressing. While she was there I experienced a doozy. She held my hand and encouraged me to breathe deep. When it was over, my Mother lovingly looked into my eyes, brushed back my hair and gave me words of wisdom that I will never forget. She said "Now you know why I have always demanded so much respect".

On March 11 at 1:11 A.M. I finally had the pleasure to meet my son James. As I held him in my arms I understood what it meant to fall in love with someone at first sight. He was beautiful. Since that time I have had the joy of witnessing life through his eyes and what a marvelous life it has been with him in it. He is still beautiful and very bright.

Thank you so much for being a part of our life. Happy Birthday my son.

Selling out for cake

2012-02-02T17:01:00.000-08:00

Hi Aunt Lisa,

Brian: Remember when you bribed me with cake to provide quality information about the private fishing hole my Dad, Alexander, and I found during the fall last year and caught a bunch of fish ?

Alexander: AND YOU DID!
Brain: Okay. But...
Alexander: No Brian! Remember how YOU sold out this family over a piece of chocolate cake while Dad was in Texas and the we where with Aunt Lisa, Nana and Mom at Aunt Karen's during Halloween?

Brian: Okay. Okay! Aunt Lisa, now my Dad is calling me a traitor! He said I was Benedict Arnold and then told me to look up who he was on the internet.

Alexander: Yep! He said YOU can Never go on another fishing trip with US again because YOU sold YOUR soul over a piece of cake!

Brian: I told him I was sorry!
Alexander: YOU told him it was CHOCOLATE!! Then you told him you were sorry!
Brian: I told him Aunt Lisa made it! What did expect me to do?
Alexander: I didn't do it! I didn't eat it! Was it worth it?
Brian: I don't remember. I think it was really good. It was good. Aunt Lisa made it!
Alexander: Don't worry Brian. Dad will forgive you... some-day!
Brian: Oh! Dear. Aunt Lisa. Here I am. This is not good. The fish will be biting soon, and I will be left behind with nothing to do. No fishing, no cake, just me.

HEY!

WAIT!!

I still have Nana!!

AND THE Wii ... at her house!!!!!!

And she knows how to make a cake!

Right Nana?

Goofy Helpers

2012-01-25T19:47:00.000-08:00

Forgive me if your reading this post
and it begins to sound like an acceptance speech for winning something big.
It is.
And like most, It's a long one.

**************************************

I don't think anyone makes it through a milestone, whatever it may be, without a ~~little~~ Lot of help from
family and friends.
I am one of many who is fortunate to have people in my life who encourages and support my success.

The latest being the

GOOFY MARATHON.

(3 medals!)
There where times I didn't think I was going to make it.
Especially with back to back runs.

The first and even the last person that I am thankful to for getting me through training and funding my habit
is my husband.
His love, friendship and affection - no one could ever match or beat.
Doesn't he look great in this picture?

At those lonely times when I didn't have a running partner or just wanted to sleep in, he would wake me up, and tell me to get going.
Depending on the day, he would start out the door with me. Only to return home after a 1/4 mile to get ready for work.
In fact, I am so proud of him.
Without doing much training, he ran the 1/2 marathon with me on Saturday..
To my amazement he ran 9 miles without stopping, walked a few and ran miles 12 through 13.1 for a medal.
Strength in Numbers.

Next, I would not have made it through my Sunday runs if it weren't for my sister, Lisa.

There where times when I had to run 12 miles after just finishing 20 the day before. She would often meet me with a smile, a few jokes, water, FOOD and perhaps even a bit of gossip. Often she would run the whole 12 with me.

Once or twice on those runs we headed downtown where our older sister Karen would ride her bike as we ran around the city of Greenville.

I think we may have even stopped somewhere for a pastry. (shh)
It was a fun thing to do.

My brothers George and Bill and my Aunt Mary Lou who are always ready for a good luck phone call and later an offer of congratulations.

My son James who gives his "Marathon Mom" credit for starting his own program

(Marathon and Mom... Those words still catch me off guard)

Once James and a few of his friends met at the local gym to join me on the treadmill,
which I refer to it as the Dreadmill.
It helped a great deal.
Thanks Son.
You inspire me too.

My dear Mother who has traveled the farthest and was most patient to watch me cross the finish line of the "first crazy marathon idea" (Thanks Jen) and my Father whose voice I often hear.
"Don't give me your excuses. No matter what, Don't. Quit.."

My younger boys Brian and Alexander who have had to wait at the finish line each time I enter an event and for this race wrote out signs telling me to

"Hurry and Finish Mom!"
"We are getting bored!."
"Please, Get Here!"
"You won't get to eat Dinner!"
"We are still waiting, Mom!"

Those guys are such comedians.

My friends Becky and Kristin whom my sister, Lisa and I have known for over 10 years.
Although they refuse to sign up for any races longer than a 5k,
without fail, every weekend they would call and ask.

"Are you running Saturday?"
"Tell us where you'll be and we'll run with you."

They have shown up at local 1/2 marathons for reinforcement and even supported my extended family.
Like they did in this picture when we all ran for the fight against Lung Cancer.
They are a lot of fun. Thanks to Kristin, the blond one,
at times can get down right dirty,

nevertheless, I am so grateful for each of them and humbled to call them friends.

There where times when my friend Terry an experienced runner who probably weighs lighter than a feather and is about 5' 11" tall and runs a 6 minute pace would call out of the blue.

"Hey Girl. How's it going? Want to meet for a run?"

I would reply: "Terry, there is no way I can keep up with you!"

"Oh no worries", she'd say, "I'll walk and run a bit when needed."

She did.
For the record she had to walk at a really fast pace!

My new friend Sonya is amazing.
She quit smoking after about 15 years. Lost weight and started an exercise program one that has led her to complete several 5k's, 1/2 marathon and Olympic triathlons
She's been through some an incredible challenges the most recent is the loss of her daughter in law who suffered from ovarian cancer.Now she's not continue her program but trying to find a way to fund a cure.
She's like an energizer bunny

and states that when one gets "her" age one tends to win a few races in their age group
but I'm not sure I believe it.
Although in this picture she won second place
Lucky for me she was training for her first marathon which she completed in December.
We have plans to run our next marathon together, the Marine Corps Marathon in DC.

Chelsey who wrote out a plan of action for me and offered daily words of encouragement and wisdom.
The people at my husbands workplace who sent well wishes and even told others of the finish. When we got back someone met me at church to tell me they heard all about the race from Tyler and Becky, my husband coworkers.
There were care packages filled with band-aids, kool-aid and cards for race day.

And least but not last so to speak, are those who never ran with me nor have I even met from the Daily Mile, a facebook type forum for runners, walkers, cyclist, etc.

While in Disney a DailyMile marathoner Larry from New Hampshire joined us for a celebration.
If you decide to join. Friend me.
I'm listed as Maggie H.

To all of you and even those whom I didn't mention.
I really appreciate all the help I received throughout this training period
and
from those of the past.

I am sure you have grown tired and weary of seeing me wear my medals

I never could of gotten through it with out your help.
With love and gratitude,
Thank you!

GOOFY FEVER :)

2012-01-18T07:41:00.000-08:00

Wa-LA!! It's done. Although I can't believe we did it.

Here are our official times. Pictures from the big event to follow soon.

OFFICIAL HALF MARATHON RESULTS

REINER #43903

Gender: M

Distance	HALF MAR
Clock Time	3:23:15
Chip Time	2:50:35
Overall Place	14757 / 22435
Gender Place	7657 / 10104
Division Place	453 / 657
Age Grade	42.5%
5K Split	0:38:21
10K Split	1:25:07
15K Split	2:03:32

OFFICIAL GOOFY MARATHON RESULTS

MARGARET #25777

Gender: F

Distance	HALF MAR
Clock Time	3:23:15
Chip Time	2:50:36
Overall Place	14761 / 22435
Gender Place	7104 / 12331
Division Place	721 / 1310
Age Grade	43.3%
5K Split	0:38:21
10K Split	1:25:07
15K Split	2:03:33

MARGARET #25777

Gender: F

Distance	MAR
Clock Time	5:20:43
Chip Time	5:00:33
Overall Place	6572 / 13504
Gender Place	2398 / 6328
Division Place	233 / 702
Age Grade	51.2%
5 Mile Split	0:59:45
10 Mile Split	1:57:07
Half Split	2:31:33
20 Mile Split	3:48:52

Still pinching myself! Maybe it's from all those medals I am still wearing around my neck! :)

Goofy for Goofy Marathon 2012

2012-01-03T12:18:00.000-08:00

In 1 day, 15 hours, 24 minutes and 28 seconds my husband and I will hopefully have completed running the
39.3 miles of the Goofy Marathon

After looking over a slew of different training programs and talking to many real runners I finally found a running coach to help me and settled on a 16 week program with two long runs on Saturday and Sunday and a half marathon around week 11 to be used as a training run. Also Chelsey, the runner, added a weight routine on easier days for two days out of the week.

Whether or not this program actually works is yet to be seen since I haven't finished or started the race yet. Hopefully I will come back with a great race report and the all time female winner!
(Note to self, remove race bib before taking bus to the finish line)

Since most likely my husband, who will join me for the 1/2 marathon, will take it easy on Saturday with some running and some walking, and hopefully I will be running the full on Sunday by myself. I felt the need to focus on the marathon portion of the race.

Plus, with time constraints and family conflicts proved that Sunday was not workable to be away for several hours. Therefore, I switched things around a bit - making my longer run on Saturday.

Week 16

M - XT 60 Minutes

T - 4 miles easy + 2 - 4 hill strides

W- 7 miles progressive run

T - 4 miles easy + 2 - 4 strides

F - XT

S - 9 miles easy

S - 6 miler

Week 15

M - XT or off

T - 5 mile recovery + 2 - 4 hill strides

W - 7 miles

T - 5 mile easy + 2 - 4 strides

F - XT

S- 11 miles

S - 7 miler

Week 14

M - XT or off

T - 3 mile recovery + 2 - 4 hill strides

W - 7 miles

T - 4 + 2 - 4 strides

F - XT

S - 13 miles

S - 8 miles

Week 13

M - XT or off

T - 4 mile recovery + hill strides

W - 8 miles

T - 5 miles easy + strides

F - XT

S - 15 miles

S - 8 miles

Week 12

M - XT or off

T - 4 mile recovery + hill strides

W - 7 miles

T - 3 miles + strides

F - XT

S - 12 miler

S - 7 miler

Week 11

M - XT or off

T - 6 mile recovery run + hill strides

W - 8 miles

Th - 4 miles + strides

F - XT

S - Spinx 1/2 Marathon (Great race and had a personal record)

S - 7 miles

Week 10

M - XT or off

T - 6 miles recovery + hill strides

W - 8 miles

T - 5 miles

F - XT

S - 16 miles

S - 8 miles

Week 9

M - XT or off

T - 5 miles recovery + hill strides

W - 7 miles

Th - 3 miles + strides

F - XT

S - 18 miles

S - 9 miles

Week 8

M - XT or off

T - 8 miles recovery

W - 4 miles + hill strides

T - 7 miler

F - XT

S - 16 miler

S - 8 miler

Week 7

M - XT or off

T - 8 miler recovery

W - 4 miler + strides

T - 6 miler

F - XT

S - 20 - 21 miler

S - 10 miler

Week 6

M - XT or off

T - 3 miler recovery + hill strides

W - 7 miler

T - 5 miles + strides

F - XT

S - 15 miler

S - 7 miler

Week 5

M - XT or off

T - 4 miler recovery + hill strides

W - 8 miler

T - 5 miles + strides

F - XT

S - 17 miles

S - 12 miles

Week 4

M - XT or off

T - 5 miles recovery + hill strides

W - 8 miler

T - 3 Miles + strides

F - XT

S - 19 miler

S - 12 miler

Ah! Taper time. :) With more time constraints during the holidays (Christmas and New Years) which happened to land on Saturday and Sunday of 2011 I switched my routine a bit.

Week 3

M - XT or off

T - 7 miles recovery

W - 4 miles

T - XT

F - 10 miler

S - !4 miler (Christmas Eve)

S - Christmas Day (Off)

Week 2

M - 3 miles recovery + hill strides

T - 7 miles

W - 3 miles + strides

T - off or XT

F - 6 miles

S - 11 miles

S - New Years Day (Off)

Week 1 - TAPER WEEK

M - 3 miles

T - 4 miles

W- - 2 miles

T - Travel day (Off)

F - 2 miles or off

S - HALF MARATHON

S - MARATHON

As I'm typing this information, I feel my stomach turning. Now I'm in a total panic mode and hoping and praying that this plan works but thought I would post it in the event someone, like me is struggling with a program to follow. Let's cross our fingers and toes that it's a successful one.
YIKES!

.Well. I guess if - when I finish, I will be back reporting what happened. If I don't I will wallow in my tears and start swimming.

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T09:26:00.000-08:00

A few resolutions to start off 2012!

1.) Get up and go for a New Year run

Reality Check:

Slept till 9 am,

Now its 12:30 pm,

and

I'm still in pajamas.

2.) Start off the New year by eating healthy ~

Fresh strawberries and pineapple with orange juice. YUM.

Reality Check:

Ate a donut or 3! and a diet coke

For the record:

The chocolate ones are betther.

Perhaps I should start over...

Maybe tomorrow.

Happy New Year! :)

May you have better luck with your resolutions...

Happy Holidays!

2011-12-28T15:00:00.000-08:00

Twas several days after Christmas and I'm a bit late

So here goes the story not to overrate.

It was quite busy with so much shopping in tow

Spent quite a bit - over budget wouldn't ya know

Christmas Eve was special with the Childrens Mass filled

Visitors from afar, parishioners calling for Father Theo to rebuild

We headed to my Mothers for a comfortable greeting

Beautiful decorations, fun galore and lots of eating

Late getting home with the children hurrying to bed

Time to wrap presents for visions of Santa danced in our heads

Woke the next morning with first things first

Baby Jesus in the Manger and prayers versed

On to Alexander who played a few songs for our delight

Then to Brian who opened James gift of box after box to enjoy his plight.

We continued our tradition with celebratory chatter

The best gift of the day was from my husband, pant size was the matter

Then on to Christmas morning with our annual breakfast and later for dinner

Where my Mother cooked a roast that was certainly a winner.

And so 2012 is on its way with much marathon training behind us

We are packing for Goofy and feeling really quite nervous.

Merry Christmas to all! As we head to Disney for our big debut

With love and blessings to many ~ farewell, we bid you!

Texas trip - part 1, partner.

2011-12-15T18:32:00.000-08:00

On our way to the biggest state in the nation we stopped in Atlanta, Georgia for breakfast, Alabama for lunch, Mississippi, just because,
it's on the way,
duh.

and as luck would have it (or rather really good planning) we ended up in New Orleans, Louisiana for a delicious Cajun dinner and an overnight stay.

The next morning we awoke early and decided we couldn't leave without touring the French Quarter....

And since breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and Cafe Du Monde just happened to be on close by We sampled a few beignets.

OMG!

Did I find Heaven!!

So we sampled a few more and a few more after that...

After rolling ourselves out into the streets of the Big Easy, we spotted St. Louis Cathedral and thought it best to confess my our gluttony sins.

While there we learned this beautiful church was built around the early 1700's and has

fossilized tile floors. It was pretty cool.

Upon leaving the cathedral Alexander met a few friends.

Some pretty cool jazz musicians.

Later, we came upon an opportunity to visit a bug museum called Insectarium.

A really great place to visit if you get the chance.

Don't be nervous if your not a fan of a small invertebrate,

it was quite fascinating.

Take it from an anti-bug enthusiast.

If you go during lunch,
your in luck because they actually serve insects!

and cooked them while you wait!

Although the aroma was really something to tempt the taste buds, the thought of eating creepy crawlers just didn't seem very appetizing.

So we opted for plan B and took the first ~~train~~, ~~bus~~, boat outta there!

Got in the car and headed toward

the Big "T"

T-shirts of James

2011-12-13T05:53:00.000-08:00

In looking through several pictures, I've noticed one specific theme
involving our oldest son. Each time I try to get a snapshot of him, he's in a t-shirt.

Some of them are pretty funny, seeing a 22 year old wearing a t-shirt with the words "My mommy thinks I'm special" just cracks me up. (and Yes, I do).

I'm thinking... its a sign of my sons higher intelligence to wear a goofy shirt like a picture of the cookie monster, Elmo or even this one, of Einstein.

Although I am delighted that he stands up for what he believes and makes his values known...

Hm, perhaps some may be a bit cynical.

Anyone for steak?

The cool ones display places he's visited.

Wait!

I'm not sure he's actually been to Bermuda...

perhaps the places someone else visited?? Oh well.

You have to admit this one is pretty clever. It's a t-shirt that he and a few of his friends designed for a local company. James' silhouette is the one in the middle, under the light.

Can you see "his" glow?

That's my boy.

After going through these pictures. I thought of sending his photo and a letter to the show
What Not to Wear
but
truthfully, I don't care.

James is one of my most favorite people in the world.
A super young man and a wonderful, kind individual anyone would have the pleasure to meet.
It has been my greatest joy to have him in my life.

Soon enough these t-shirts will turn to business suits.

...or
not.

It's a good thing

2011-12-11T17:27:00.000-08:00

My Mother has a special talent with decorating. She understands the importance of making one feel comfortable and always welcomed into her home.

Each holiday she places magical affects on everything she touches. Anytime there is a birthday or a special event my Mother knows how to pull it together. Personally, I love the wonder of transformation on her home during this season. Once my nephew George noted "Nana's house is decorated! Christmas is here! Christmas is here!"

Indeed it's a happy, warm and inviting wonderland.

This year was no different.

The front entrance is a simple of elegance of silver sparkling deer, plaid garland, and white poinsettia's.

Turn to the left and you will find her living room glistening with crystal wise men, lights and angel atop a beautifully decorated tree.

Enter through an archway and you will find the dining room. Where Dickens village is placed on glass shelving overlooking the festivities.

The table is set simply with an adorable reindeer runner and each plate meticulously placed in a strategic fashion for a wonderful social gathering.

I, like so many, love seeing the new, fresh ideas and decorations my mother originates each year.

Thanks Mom for teaching and passing on your welcoming views to the rest of us.

Alexander and the Trans-Siberian Orchestra

2011-12-09T05:25:00.000-08:00

My Alexander loves music! He plays the piano quite often and enjoys listening to musical orchestras. One of his favorite the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. A classical rock band with the power to transform music into dancing lights, pyrotechnics and fireworks. A year ago they came into town and he asked to go see them for his birthday but the tickets were sold out.

So this year Reiner, my husband, heard that they were coming into town, and as luck would have it, his company was giving a special drawing for their employees for boxed seats right in front of the stage. "the box" is comfortably furnished with big leather chairs, a television and all you food you can the eat and drink!

Thinking of Alexander without hesitation he jumped at the chance to put his name in the hat.

He won!

(Just wondering. Did you think to play the lottery too, dear?)

Garrison Keillor! Make me laugh!

2011-12-07T04:45:00.000-08:00

Brian, our nine year old's favorite all time radio host is non other than Garrison Keillor . Every Saturday night he sits with his ear close to to the radio and laughs at each delivered joke and story. Brian's ear is attuned to stories of Lake Wobegon and the travels of Guy Noir and the cast of a Prairie Home Companion. It's really quite funny.

Recently, Brian and I where driving back from a visit to my sister Karen's home. We drove down Main Street in Greenville to look at all the Christmas attractions being offered in our town. As we past the Peace Center,

Brian shouted "WAIT!! Mom!! Stop! It's Garrison Keillor!"

"Where?" I replied.

"There! On the sign! At the Peace Center! He's coming! Mom! He's coming here!"

"Oh. That's nice." I replied.

"Oh. No. Mom. you don't understand. Please! Wait! This is an opportunity of a life-time! For Christmas. He's retiring. I have to go see him! Please Mom. I will never get the chance again. He's coming. It's all I want for Christmas!"

"Really? No gifts? No toys?" I said

"Well. No. I want. toys. too. BUT. Okay. Well. I didn't mean that's all I want. Listen. You can give Alexander 8 gifts and give me 7. Because this will count as a gift. Okay? Pleeeeze!?

"WOW! With a bargain like that how could we pass up an opportunity of a lifetime for Christmas, Brian!" I replied

Although the show was funny, the greatest part was becoming star struck by meeting the face of radio in person and have everyone standing around you while Mr. Keillor talks to a you, personally, about his show and life on the radio.

"What did he say to you Brian?" I asked

"I don't remember, Mom. I was too nervous. But if you notice, Garrison Keillor wore a red tie with orange sneakers and I wore a red vest with an orange shirt. Pretty funny, huh? I wanted to stand next to him for a picture but everyone was near me and I was nervous."

"That's okay. I think it's pretty neat that he talked to you. But next time maybe you should wait to eat a mint until you get home." I answered.

"Heh. Yeah. Did you notice he autographed a book for me?"

"Thanks Garrison Keillor"

"Oh yeah. And thanks Mom. And Dad too."

Travel School

2011-11-06T11:29:00.000-08:00

The joys of homeschooling is that you can hold school just about anywhere.

AND Since we are missing this guy

way to much.

I say...

It's time for a field trip!

Round 'em up and Move 'em out.

Texas here we come!!

13.1 things to think about

2011-10-31T08:47:00.000-07:00

This weekend my sister Lisa and I ran in the Spinx !/2 marathon in Greenville, Sc

Although she's a runner and athlete

This was HER First Official Marathon

Anyone whose run long distance knows this stuff is tough!

I was so proud AND happy to see her cross that finish line.

In fact she bought a 13.1 sticker for the back of her car.

She's Hooked.

Official Recognition of a Real Marathoner!!

13.1 miles = 21.0824064 kilometers

13.1 things to think about

Mile 1 ~ I'm cold

Mile 2 ~ This is so easy

Mile 3 - I'm hot, I hate this

Mile 4 - Are you kidding me?
Where's the finish line?

Mile 5 - I'm hungry, where's McD?

Mile 6 - I'm thirsty, I.need.a.drink.
Finish line, where are you?

Mile 7 - Ya know, this isn't so bad.

Mile 8 - Leg cramp. Where is that stupid Bus?
Finish? Line?

Mile 9 - Are you kidding me? Another dumb Hill?

Mile 10 - Ok yes! Only 2 miles left!

Mile 11 - Wait! No! 2 miles left? What?

Mile 12 - Are my feet and legs still moving? Are they attached?
Okay. So where's the finish line?

Mile 13 - You mean I still have to run?

Mile 0.01 - I did it! So much fun!!!!!

Where's the chocolate?

You can't just buy those goodies off the shelf.

(okay. well. your not supposed to)

Hey, guess what...

I beat my old time and had a personal record. Fastest pace to date!!

(Which isn't really that fast but faster than last year so...)
BUT the last 5 miles of this race was uphill!

Hey. I'm happy.

To everyone out there who is thinking about signing up for a marathon. WE say...

GET

On your mark

Get Set.

GO!!

Who knows my sister Lisa and I may join you in the fun!

Our fishing trip by Alexander and Brian

2011-10-26T11:44:00.000-07:00

It appears that I have been busier than normal lately. My kids have been asking me to write a post about their recent fishing trip so their Uncle Mark can read about the great BIG FISH they caught. I suggested since they are in a writing class and wasn't there - They should write about it.

So without further ado may I present Alexander and Brian's first post:

CAUTION

These following pictures may be disturbing to Uncle Mark and our cousin Mary's fishing career. (Brian)

This was not like our usual fishing trip. We usually start out with a dull morning and puny fish. The day before was cold and our special day was just right in temperature.

Dad caught the first fish of the hour. But that one was not right. He was a little to thin.

Ι, Brian, caught a fish that was a little bulkier but that one wasn't right either.

Wait! You haven't seen anything yet!

Last but not least...

We, really me... Alexander, caught this guy!

He's Just Right.

Maybe someday we will show Uncle Mark our special fishing hole.

Hold on!
We should see if Aunt Lisa will bake us a cake first. Mom said sometimes bribery works.

Pirates!!!! of Graceland's Coachwood

2011-09-23T11:17:00.000-07:00

I, I, Mate.

My guys still love to dress up in costumes.

Arrrr. Thar Matey!

These pirate hats are a special gift from their Nana after her trip to the Bahama's.

oh yeah!

I'm scared.

(Thanks Mom!)

My Opey Cunningham

2011-09-18T19:23:00.000-07:00

Remember Opey from Andy Griffith?

My Alexander is the cutest little red head you will ever have the pleasure to meet.

His smile is dynamic. He actually looks a lot like Opey.

He loves sports, any kind of sport, but he's especially talented in the game of tennis.

.In fact, if your visiting us and hear thump. thump. thump.

Rest assured it's not a peg-legged pirate or Opey Cunningham... it's Alexander practicing his forehand, backhand or grand slam against the sheet-rock in our garage.

Did someone mention Lego's?
Like most little boys his age he can build just about anything.

His latest was an exact replica of the well known twin towers in New York which he saw briefly in the news one night during the week of 9-11 remembrance.
Genius!

Unfortunately, I wasn't quick enough with the camera.

He really enjoys playing the piano and has gotten quite majestic with musical tunes. In fact, he recently preformed for the Ladies and Gents of a local Music club in town.

Once again I forgot my camera

but trust me when I tell you,
He. Was. Great.

Of course... I am his Mother.

Unfortunately, there is one thing that Alexander has not enjoyed so much...

READING.

Until.

Ta-Da!

Captain Underpants!

This book is literally infectious and full of gross bathroom humor which has brought a giggling joy of reading into my reluctant reader.

It's cartoon featured pictures enhance good dirty jokes. It's a perfect noneducational and corny read that has kept my guy completely entertained. In my opinion, any child who is not interested in reading could truly benefit from this book therefore become engaged

for hours - well into the night.

With this book Alexander's confidence levels has greatly improved.
His ability to read fluently has become noticeably different.
Although, it's not the book I would have chosen but it's gotten the reading ball rolling
and really -
isn't that what's important?

Personally, for me,

it has been one of my greatest pleasures

to yell at Alexander and tell him

"TURN OFF THAT LIGHT!
AND

PUT DOWN THAT BOOK!

AND

GO TO SLEEP!!!"

Sweet dreams ~~Opey~~ Alexander.

My Sister's Talent(s)

2011-09-13T19:01:00.000-07:00

My sister Lisa

whom I just realized is behind the camera more than she is in front of it!

Hence the reason this seems to be the only recent photo I have of her. Taken this past weekend after a super "fun" run the two of us finished and therefore celebrated by treating ourselves to a delicious smoothie from the best smoothie place in the world.

Anyway, I could go on and tell you that she is a great photographer, of which she is self-taught. I could go on and on about her ability to discuss, debate and debacle anything from politics to homeschooling. I could add her amazing sense of humor to the list, or her athletic abilities and successful marriage or even the accomplishment of being a wonderful mother among many other things...

BUT none of these things has blessed her... I mean, our family's life more than her talent to make one heck of a fantastic moist chocolate-frosted chocolate cake.

mmmmm

Lucky for us... she makes a mean, melt in your mouth chocolate rocky road fudge too.

Birthday Wish for Stephen

2011-09-07T12:51:00.000-07:00

Don't tell my sister BUT she has some really ~~great kids~~ big brats. Whom I simply ~~adore~~ ignore. They are always ~~helping~~ annoying one another and others!

Someday, I hope that these kids can turn their lives around and really strive to make a difference in this world. If you've ever had ~~the pleasure~~ to meet these kids you'd know what I mean when I say.... She has such a long way to go.

It so happens that today, 17 years ago, Stephen, one of her ~~"Fab Four"~~ children was born.

In wishing Stephen a very Happy Birthday, as his Aunt, I feel it's important to give some advice on this milestone. So for what it's worth here goes...

***********************
Once in a while Stephen it would be nice if you would to take time out of your day to visit your relatives. Stop in and have a tall glass of water to simply converse with your Aunts and Uncles. Think about others. When someone ask for help. Give it. Volunteer to paint a room or help move furniture.

Someday I hope you would find a passion. Build something. Like a bench for your Mother! Be kind to your siblings. Be a good friend to them. Make breakfast for them every once in a while. Go fishing with your Dad. Take time to listen to your parents.

Stand tall and reach great heights! Stand up for your beliefs. Start working on yourself and your image! It's important that you workout. Perhaps lift weights, ride a bike up a mountain or go for a run. Get out and enjoy things and people around you. Embrace nature.

I wish that you could take time to volunteer at the local church and become an alter server. Be the type of person that your little cousins would aspire to be. Finally, I hope you will start more paying attention to your Grandmother. Cut her grass. Clean up around her house once in awhile.

It is my hope that you will eventually heed my words and....

Have a wonderful day, Stephen!

Happy Birthday, Love M

It's truly been a delight and pleasure to be one of your many Aunts.

Thank you for being such a fabulous nephew.

(and great kid - in spite of your parents) ;)

The Laborers

2011-09-05T17:54:00.000-07:00

On this Labor Day

We are busy as bees....

OR butterfly's as the case may be

Look fast!

(Okay. Well. It was a picture of a bee)

Homeschooling

Just us three

Oh! Joy!

Yippee!

Sooooo.

How did you spend your day of Labor?

Finally!

2011-09-03T02:22:00.000-07:00

I have been up half the night trying to figure out how to get back into this blog and post onto this site. I have e-mailed this one and this one in reference to figuring this whole thing out. BUT obviously they are too busy POSTING about their own things than to pay attention to me!

Unfortunately. Now. I don't remember what I was going to say......

Stay tuned. I'm sure it'll come to me.

Kid Shots

2011-08-09T06:54:00.000-07:00

If you give a kid a camera.
(Without your knowledge, mind you)

But because... your a great role model

You never know what he might do

He may just take a picture

Of cars in a line

Or better yet, catch you doing something
That may be illegal, in a policeman's view

Like texting while driving...

Oh No!?! That couldn't be true!

Free Stuff and a few coupons too!

2011-08-07T10:09:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't like free stuff?

Click here Shout it out and receive a sample of shout wipes for removing stains on the the go. You will have to fill out a form asking for your address but hey! so what.

SBR Sports Inc is providing free samples of Trislide, TriSwim and Foggle Shampoo, Conditioner and Lotion. Visit the linked page and complete the form. Even if your not a sports enthusiast, it's free!

Check out Women's Health a governmental agency from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' is giving away free copies of their 2012 Calendar's. Shipping will begin in December. You should receive it just in time for those New Year resolutions.

Checkout Blockbuster kiosk and enter codes 86TGAF3, 77BCRD6, 53JGMM7 or 82BRAB7 to score a free DVD rental. But hurry these codes will expire on August 8th! Tomorrow. Also they are valid on the $1 rentals only. Make sure to return your movies by 9:00 pm the next day to prevent a $1.00 late fee.

Print coupons to save up to $12 off Post-It products. These coupons expire on September 30, 2011.
NOTE: You may have to cut and paste for link to work; http://www.3m.com/us/office/postit/coupons/70-0714-4853-7.pdf

Feeling lucky? Enter here for a free chance to win a $100 Wal-mart gift card. Good luck!!

Got any good saving tips? Please pass them on. We can help each other out so that we may all benefit.