When the Door Wins

This is what happens when your run face first into the corner of a door. The swelling is definitely down (but still tender) and the draining of the bruise is giving me more color underneath my eye. It is a very dramatic look. I've tried to cover it a bit with makeup and match the other eye a bit, but it still looks like I got out of control with the eye liner. I wonder what the folks at the elementary open house thought this morning?

A Week Off

The week between Christmas and New Year's was thankfully spent relaxing at home with the boys and my parents. My parents arrived on Sunday, December 28th, and left on January 2nd. We enjoyed happy hour at the local seafood place, happy hour downtown with a view of downtown and the mountains, shopping with my mom, watching football (including Nebraska's win over Clemson), and quality time with the boys. Drake had a bit of cabin fever during the week, but really enjoyed having "Nana and Pop" here to entertain and keep busy.



We enjoyed a couple days of very nice weather. It allowed us to get the ice off the back patio and also trim back the perennials in the front yard. We even enjoyed our lunch on the front porch one day. New Year's eve was pretty low key - we enjoyed a seafood dinner - lobster tails, crab legs, and shrimp. Marshall, the boys, and I headed over to friends for a couple hours, and I came back with Tanner to celebrate New Year's with my parents. We finished a puzzle and some of us even made it to midnight ;)



A picture of Tanner with Nana and Pop in the rocker from the Karlen farm.

It was so nice to have them here more than a couple days. And of course, the time always goes too quickly.

A December to Remember

January 3rd already. Wow! I didn't have any time to update my blog during the month of December - too many great things going on! Here's a list of some of the highlights - Check out the photo slide for some pictures of our highlights too.

1. Gramma and Granddad's week long visit - early Christmas dinner and Christmas presents - as Drake would say - "Christmas #2".
   
2. Celebrating Tanner's 2nd birthday with a trip to Zoo Lights and cake and presents after the festivities.
   
3. Breakfast with Santa. Tanner was not too excited about sitting on Santa's lap and Drake was a bit apprehensive at first, but warmed up to him enough to ask for the Polar Express book.
4. Time with friends - Christmas celebration at the Snow's house, our "stay-cation" downtown and drinks and dinner with Nadja and Ryan, the party we forgot with friends - but still made, New Year's Eve with NWU pals.
   
5. Starting our own Christmas traditions - fish chowder in bread bowls and sugar cookies with Grasshoppers on Christmas Eve, wrapping Christmas presents on Christmas Eve drinking Prosecco.
6. Singing Christmas carols with Drake - we've almost got the 12 days of Christmas down!
   
7. The magic in Drake's eyes when he realized that Santa did come.
   
8. Spending Christmas day in our pj's playing with our new toys.
   
9. Nana and Pop's visit - happy hour with the view of downtown, shopping with mom, seeing my dad sitting in the rocking chair (with Tanner on his lap) that his Pop sat in on the farm.
   
10. 7 days off from work and precious time with the boys.
    

Wishing everyone a happy new year and a wonderful 2009!

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Thanksgiving Holiday

It is hard to believe that only a week ago I was attending the Nebraska/CU football on a beautiful fall day in Nebraska. What a great game we were able to see - with the 57 yarder kicked right in front of us. Thanksgiving seems like a lifetime ago and Christmas festivities are now in full swing.



The minivan definitely served us well on our road trip to Nebraska. Only 2 stops each way! We must be raising good little travelers (and DVD addicts maybe). We drove Tuesday afternoon/evening and it was so nice to have Wednesday to relax and enjoy our time with family. Marshall was able to hunt (he shot one, but the dogs couldn't find it). And yes, I do believe he actually shot one because my brother-in-law was there to witness it.

We, of course, ate too much, drank too much, and slept too little. But, we were able to see family and friends, watch football, eat turkey and other Thanksgiving type activities. The boys enjoyed their cousins and we even attended a birthday party for my niece which of course, is very exciting for Drake. Presents, candles, cake and ice cream - what more do you need?



Of course, the time was too short and the drive too long, but it is always wonderful to be with family. Every day I am thankful for my family - I'm just reminded of it more during the holidays and after spending precious time with them.

Banana

A little video of us trying to get Tanner to say "banana" (which isn't actually a word at all). The cutest part of the video is the fact that Tanner kept trying to do his "smile" for the camera. He sees the camera and automatically says "cheese" and "winks" his eye. Of course, trying to hold this for 30 seconds is pretty cute to us as parents.

Three Nights, 2 Chiminea Fires, and 1 S'more

Before the weather turned frigid this week, we were able to take full advantage of the nice weather. We fired up the chiminea a couple times, got out the camping chairs, and enjoyed roasting marshmallows. Sunday evening was so enjoyable it was easy to forget about all the negative news lately. However, it also makes you realize the truly important things in your life.

Birthdays

Yesterday we celebrated Marshall's birthday. It was so wonderful to have Drake be so concerned about Marshall's birthday.

• Where are we going to have the party?
  
• Who is going to come to the party?
  
• Where should we hide the presents?
  
• What color should we make the frosting?
  

I was able to pick the boys up early so we could get ready for the party (it was hard for him to understand that the party was going to be at our house!). We were able to wrap and hide the presents as well as start making the frosting for the cake (we made the cake the night before). When Marshall came home, he had to finish his own cake frosting (I'm definitely NOT a baker). Tanner and Drake had pizza and we were able to light the candles, sing happy birthday, and open presents. Was really nice to celebrate Marshall's birthday with those that mean the most to us. And the joy knowing that Drake was so concerned that we didn't have very many presents for Daddy was precious.

Marshall and I then went out to dinner at the Izakaya Den and enjoyed a night out at a non-kid restaurant with our friends, Darin and Heidi. We had a great time sampling different tapas and sushi rolls and Marshall and I enjoyed the cold sake that we ordered. Was a great time and I look forward to celebrating many more birthdays with my PV boys.

Parent Teacher Conferences

This week we had parent teacher conferences for both Tanner and Drake. It is funny to think that you have a parent teacher conference for a 23 month old. But, Tanner's teacher had a great little book made up that shows us all the things Tanner is working on in the classroom. It was so nice to see the things they do during the day as it is so different than what they do when we pick them up and drop them off.

The meeting with Drake's teacher was also great. She said he is just exploding in the classroom and his confidence and pride is definitely up. He recently passed his United States map and is now half way through Europe. He is also loving math and reading, but doesn't spend too much time in the sensorial or practical life areas - mostly because he is too busy with all the other areas of the classroom. We, of course, are thrilled he is learning all of these things, but I truly just want him to enjoy school, what he is doing, and ensure that he is a good boy in class. Fortunately, this school has been a very positive experience for him and we are well on our way to hopefully raising a good, caring, empathetic individual (and if he turns out pretty bright after everything, that's bonus).

CB & Potts Happy Hour aka CIC Memory Lane

Tonight Marshall and I met for happy hour at CB & Potts. It's actually not terribly far from where we live, but we have not been there in ages. We picked it because it is very close to Drake and Tanner's school - which happens to be across the street from the company where Marshall and I met. So, needless to say, CB & Potts was a place we frequented in our younger years when we were both working at Customer Insight Company. The funny thing is, I don't believe Marshall and I ever went to CB & Potts together so it holds different memories for each of us.

One thing I don't think is different - being there definitely brought back memories of a fun time in our lives. Regular happy hours, good friends, carefree times, last minute trips, and 4 weeks of PTO! Of course, we had to wrap up this happy hour quickly so we could get the boys before school closed at 6:00, but what a wonderful little "date" for us. The quote of the evening by Marshall, "Do we have to go pick up the boys?" - all in fun of course. And although our lives are obviously different now, one thing that is not different - Marshall and I have a wonderful time together. We laughed. We joked. We had a couple beers together. Good times. Good life.

We're going to bed early!

There are those elections that stick with you for one reason or another. In 200o, I was getting married in a couple months and was getting laid off the day after the election. Marshall and I were going to stay up until the election was decided. Well, of course, that was 2000 and we didn't know the next President for several days after election day. I don't even remember where I was in 2004. Obviously, 2008 is an election day that I will remember. A newly elected black President, a sense of hope in trying times, and many feelings I don't even know how to put into words. Change is coming. It won't be easy, but this is a start. And unlike 2000, I'll be going to bed early knowing who will be leading our nation going forward. And for that, I am truly thankful.

Election '08

A cool way to follow the election online.

Slovakia and Voting

Today is obviously a big day in the United States. I am truly hopeful that it will be a day where we will avoid any questions about the validity of ballots, polling place problems, etc. I found myself driving back from the boys' school with such a sense of pride today - just like I did when I turned in my mail in ballot last week. How fortunate I feel to live in a country where we can select our leaders without fear, conflict, or violence.

Every time I vote, I am reminded of my experience as a college freshman in 1992. I was touring Eastern Europe and Russia with my college choir and had a home stay in Slovakia. There were a few key things I remember about that visit:

1) My hosts could speak very little English. However, the girl's boyfriend spoke a bit of English and had a red translation book he used.

2) The boyfriend used the book to tell me that Slovakia was now like the United States and they were able to vote and that they had political parties like Democrats and Republicans.

3) I remember thinking - here are people that can barely speak English, but know the political parties in the United States and are so full of hope that they can now vote. Their excitement and passion has had a profound effect on my pride as an American and all that comes with that.

4) I made a vow that day to vote in every election and not take my ability to vote for granted. How much my eyes were opened as a young 19 year old.

5) They offered me a glass of milk and I hadn't had one during my trip. I was so excited to get some nice cold milk. When they brought me warm goat's milk, I was of course, a bit shocked, but of course, drank it all since I had been so excited to receive it.

I am proud to have voted and I am thankful for this opportunity - especially during times like these.

Bloomin' Geraniums

What a warm, warm fall we have had. It has been the 70's all week and the weekend did not disappointment. We were able to get some great yard work done today and have the boys help water, trim, and rake (and do a little playing as well). I even noticed that my geranium has a new bloom and some of my morning glory plants still are flowering. It's hard to believe with it being November 2nd.

Last night we enjoyed having a few NWU folks over to watch a few minutes of the Husker game - we were down 28 - 0 before 5 minutes in the quarter had gone by. 5 offensive plays ended up in 3 turnovers (and 21 OU points). However, it will still great to watch college football with some folks (we later turned on the Texas/Texas Tech game which was much more exciting). It had been some time since we had gotten together with everyone so it was a nice reason to hang out and catch up. I'm not sure where our time goes, but I suppose with two kids, two full time jobs, and just life in general, it can be pretty crazy. I am thankful for the wonderful balance we have in our life and truly hope we can hold on to it for a bit longer.

Happy Halloween

Well, Halloween has finally arrived and we already have buckets full of candy. We are getting our money's worth with the costumes this year. Of course, Drake is on year #3 with his firefighter costume. He has yet to figure out that you can get new costumes. It really makes you appreciate the innocence of a child.



We enjoyed a wonderful trip to the Vail Valley last weekend to see a couple different sets of friends we hadn't seen in a long time. The weather was beautiful and we were able to partake in the Beaver Creek trick or treating. Both the boys really enjoyed watching the ice skaters and the zamboni - more interesting than all the zombies and such apparently.

On Tuesday night, we carved our first pumpkin. Drake loved turning off all the lights and seeing it glow. Tanner on the other hand......... not so happy with it. It was a beautiful night and Marshall was sweet enough to scrape out the seeds and toast them for me. Drake informed me "he loved them" (and he also loved my meatloaf this week which was a nice surprise!).

On Thursday, we took the boys to the Dish Network Halloween Party. We have done this for several years - it is a great activity for the kids. Fishing, tattoos, pumpkin bowling, haunted houses and candy of course. Drake really was into the haunted house and doing all the activities. He made a mask and it became part of his costume today - so we have a masked firefighter attending school today.

And finally, Halloween has arrived - costumes at school, trick or treating, special lunches and all. What a Friday! Tanner really was indifferent, but Drake's eyes lit up when I asked him if he wanted to put on his costume before we went into the classroom. He carefully looked through the window to see if other kids had on their costumers and after that confirmation, he joyfully put on his costume.

I'm looking forward the wrapping up our festivities tonight with some trick or treating and our Friday night ritual - take out !

My first iMovie Video

Well, I am not terribly creative, but had a fun time playing around with the iMovie function on my MAC. Here is my first attempt at a family video.

Enjoy!

Poker, Salsa, and Pumpkins

The time on the weekends really does fly by. Sometimes, I wonder what it is that we actually do on Saturday and Sunday. This weekend was one of those weekends where everyone got to do something fun just for themselves. Friday night Marshall was able to take in a poker game which he always enjoys. I got some time with the boys and some good alone time which is always nice. It's funny, I'm alone all day working, but having the evenings to myself is a completely different feeling. Apparently, I am still able to separate work and play.



Saturday morning saw a trip to the pumpkin patch on a very warm fall day. We enjoyed picking our own pumpkins, funny gourds, and Indian corn. It took quite some time to get out of the pumpkin patch, but I was able to catch some of the Husker game on the radio during that time and was happy that we came away with a win this week. Marshall also celebrated a Buff win, but unfortunately, the WSU Cougars ended there consecutive game record without a shut out at the hands of USC - ugh.

Sunday saw yard work, car cleaning - Drake was quite a good helper, and organizing the boys' fall clothes. I put away much of Tanner's summer clothes and it is always with a bit of sadness to put away more and more of his "baby" clothes. It is obviously a joy to watch him become such a big boy, but it is also hard to think of my baby growing up so fast. Drake actually took a nap and I was able to take a lovely walk around the park. When Drake woke up and learned I had been on a walk, he was quite distraught. So, he got on his scooter and another walk was in my future. What a treat - two walks in one day - I can't remember when that happened last.

Sunday night was a night of dinner and salsa dancing for me. It was definitely intimidating, but I did get out a dance a few times - poor fellas that asked me. Fortunately, they all survived unscathed. I need to get back and take full advantage of the free lessons next time. And of course, it was nice to just get dressed up and go out - it doesn't happen nearly enough.

Benihana's

Tonight we celebrated another milestone of Drake's school accomplishments - passing his 12th book! He is now on "big" books. It is very exciting to see him reading sentences. I typed some words on the computer and Drake was able to read them. Of course, writing sentences with 3 letter words with short vowels is a challenge.

Drake really enjoyed the dinner and loved his meal. Of course, Tanner ate some rice. But, they both were very well behaved and Marshall and I enjoyed ourselves as well. We don't get out much so any dinner besides McDonald's is a treat.

Surprise!

Our surprise trip to Pender was a success! Not only did we surprise Mom, the flights were on time, and the weather was beautiful! We arrived on Thursday afternoon and had cocktails over at Jaima's and surprised Mom when she got home from work. We stayed at Jaima's and Drake and Alyssa had a sleepover which went very well actually (thankfully).

Friday morning started with coffee at Popo's, shopping for Nana's birthday present and enjoying the nice weather with riding bikes and a trip to the farm to harvest the last of the tomatoes. We enjoyed cocktails on the porch and then headed to Drake's first football game - Go Pendragons! Unfortunately, Pender was slaughtered by Bancroft-Rosalie. Drake came home and said that Pender didn't have many points - that's an understatement. But, the weather was beautiful and Drake enjoyed the popcorn, walking to the game, and seeing his first real football game.




Saturday was another wonderful day with breakfast and Popo's and Mom's birthday party. Drake was a big helper with the party preparations. Unfortunately, the Hukers couldn't pull off a victory, but at least they were in it! The party was great and the weather cooperated. I am so glad that we made the trip and was able to celebrate my mom's birthday with my sisters and parents. What a wonderful time.

I love you a lot and fake coughing

You know - I really think there are so many things that just pass me by during the days. There are things you really just wish you could bottle and hold on to forever. Sitting on the park bench with Drake on Sunday I told him I loved him. He said, "I love you." Paused and then said, "I love you a lot. I love you all the way to space and back." And then asked, "how much do you love me?" Of course, I replied, "I love you all the way to space and back." And Drake said, "that is a lot." Yes, Drake it is. More than you will ever know.

Tanner is of course, fun, fun, fun. He does everything Drake does - the fake coughing is particularly amusing right now. He loves Thomas the Train (marketing works on kids for sure!) and really enjoys his time playing in the basement with all the toys and trucks by himself. He put 2 words together finally - "Daddy down" - I really think we are going to be seeing more and more of that.

Guilty Pleasure

Although there is definitely a lot of work that happens on a business trip, traveling for work (when one only has to do it about 2 times a year) is definitely a mini-vacation. Even airplane travel is relaxing (compared to flying with two kids). Of course, there is the guilt of leaving Marshall at home with two kids, but one week is doable. Business trips really allow me to focus on the small, positive things in life. From driving a Mustang (instead of a mini-van) for a few days, to mornings and evenings without kid craziness, business trips allow me time to relax and rejuvenate. And in my case, a time to connect with co-workers face-to-face, have a team dinner, meet co-workers for the first time, and participate in meetings that just can't happen on the phone.

This trip was even better with a special night in downtown San Francisco. I stayed at the Hotel St. Francis right on Union Square. I had a nice big corner room and also had free breakfast in the morning. The evening was spent out with girlfriends - chatting, drinking, eating, and repeat! It was a wonderful visit to the city. Of course, Friday morning had me wishing Marshall was there to share the city with me - maybe next time.

Truly, I hate leaving all my boys, but after indulging myself for a few days, I'm definitely a better mom and wife. I'm excited to be with them, hear everything they have done (like Drake passing his United States map!) and be truly engaged with all of them. Like I said, rejuvenating and focusing on the positive things in life. Of course, until work catches up with me on Monday morning... ha!