Savannah says "Thanks so much for all the birthday wishes".
We had a fabulous time! I don't think that I could have had a better group of girls to take along to the water park. They were FABULOUS! When I take my boys and their friends around, I pull up the doors of the suburban fly open, and boys pile in..(without bothering to move the seat back...they just crawl over). They are loaded and talking loudly within seconds.

The GIRLS however, were different. I pull up. One door opens. the girls all exchange pleasantries, and then stand OUTSIDE the vehicle over-politely offering each other a seat. This continues for a bit, and then finally all the girls are happily seated, buckled in, and chit chatting among themselves quietly. They talked about books and school and music. They told ghost stories. They listened to some of Thom's Jammin' Mix For The Road. At the water park the girls were just perfect. Not a minutes trouble out of anyone. They all got along beautifully. They were smart, articulate,polite, kind, and just a ton of fun. They were really a joy to be around. I am so thankful that Savannah has made these wonderful friends.

We left the house yesterday morning at 9:00 am and we returned at 9:30 pm. LONG DAY! Many Thanks to Thomasina for going along and getting pics of the girls, and generally just making the day so much fun for Savannah. (I'll post a few pics soon).

This morning I got the sleepy headed girls up for Sunday School and church. Everyone asked about Race and reminded me that they were praying for him, which was really(REALLY) nice. I think that one of the things that I love most about this church, is the sense of community that they promote. This church really fills a gap for us.

After church, mom and dad met me at my house with the boys in tow. They had a wonderful weekend, and managed to get several signed baseballs from major league players, as well as some top notch instruction. They had a wonderful time and were bubbling over with stories to tell. We ate lunch with mom and dad, and my WONDERFUL dad drove the Scalded Dog to the dump loaded with all my garbage! What a dad! I can't tell you how much that helps me along. Thanks, dad.

Tonight, I have filled out my lesson plans and feel pretty prepared for the week ahead. I am excited to get started on our little remodeling projects that we have planned for around the house, as well as getting back into our routine for the weeks ahead.

I have heard from Race and things are going along as planned. We've had a good weekend, and I have a heart full of thanks tonight.

G'night,
Melissa

Mom and Dad came for a visit today, and they picked up the boys to take them to a baseball seminar this weekend. It was great to see them, but they NEVER stay long enough! They picked up one of the cousins, A., and brought her along, so that she could spend the night here this weekend, and help Savannah celebrate her birthday.

Tomorrow I head to the indoor water park with 4 pre-teen girls in tow. Thankfully, I have been able to rope Thomasina into coming along with us. We'll see how it goes. The girls are all really excited. Gotta run, cause we'll be on the road bright and early tomorrow.

G'night,
Melissa

Austin??????

Well, you can move this to the top of the "10 Things That I Never Thought I'd Hear" list. Austin and his buddies (from scouts) are thinking about...................a BAND! A Band??? It seems that his buddy is in percussion at school. He is getting a complete, really nice drum set tomorrow. The kids brother is taking guitar. He wants Austin to pick it back up, so that they can get a band started. Are you reading this Race????

What did I say? I did what anyone would do. I said, "Sure! Y'all would be great!"

G'night,
Melissa

The Bat Patrol Flag! Yes, your eyes are correct. That IS part of a deer skull with antlers attached. Yeah. We had some layin' around........Anyway, what a HIT! The Patrol loved it, and it was the best flag there! woo-hoo! Way to go A! He was really proud of it, because he did the whole thing himself.

This morning started out with putting the finishing touches on the birthday party invitations that I was helping Savannah with. They turned out really cute, and we got them in the mail this morning. (Incidently, these WILL NOT be timely,as the party is Saturday, so I had already talked with the moms, and all the girls can make it ;0) ). We are taking the girls to an indoor water park for the day. Should be a lot of fun! Thomasina is going with us too, so I should have pictures! School was thrown in here and there today, but not overly productive. But I don't really expect it to be, until next week. It always takes us a week to get settled again. Austin spent the better part of the day finishing up the patrol flag for his Scout patrol. It is WAY COOL! I'll post a picture of it when it totally complete.

I got a huge pat on the back today. One of the boys' martial arts coaches pulled me aside to tell me what a joy the guys were to have in class. He said that they were good examples. That they were hard workers, and if they had a question, they asked. He also said that they are always willing to help out anyone else in class. His exact words were, "Y'all are doing something right there." Wow. I really needed that. What a nice thing to take the time to say, ya know? I think that this is one of those Pay it Forward opportunities. I know a lot of great kids, but all too often, I don't take the time to tell their parents about it. I think that I will make an effort to do that much more often. And, yes, I am proud of my boys for earning that compliment. It seems that there is much more to them than just their good looks and bodily function noises........huh.

Well, I am going to herd everyone to bed, and then I am headed there myself. Well, after I watch My Name Is Earl, that TIVO is saving for me. Have y'all seen that??? Funniest show on TV. Heck, I feel like I know a lot of the characters personally......ya know, from around here where I live. I LOVE that show!!!

G'night,
Melissa

Parting IS such sweet sorrow! I handed my 14 yr old boy the camera, and THIS is what I found on it tonight. I didn't know he took it. We Miss You Race! So much.

Whenever we see Race off for a trip, I say the same thing:

"Be careful. Come home. Don't worry about us, we're fine. We love you. I love you.........Come home."

I say the exact same thing every time. And I don't cry. No one wants to see crying, weepy, weakness, when you are about to leave. And I don't EVER want him to worry about us. THINK about us, sure. But not WORRY. His mind needs to be on his work. It HAS to be on his work. So, I don't want him to worry. And when I think about being a child, it would unnerve me to see my mother break down, so I don't do it. I dry tears, I don't cry them.....at least not on departures. Race and the kids and I all know how we feel, so in the words of my dad, "I dunno what good cryin's gonna do about it."

But, I love the picture. It was a nice surprise. Thanks, Austin.

So....how many of us are pacing back and forth in the waiting room waiting for Dy's baby to be born? Many prayers headed their way I'm sure.

I am slowly getting into the groove here. Race is where he is supposed to be, so that's always a relief to hear. The kids and I have many projects to keep us busy while he is gone. So, we'll concentrate on those awhile.

My youngest has a knack for almost getting killed daily by his older brother and sister. And I can promise you this....if they were ANY OTHER brother or sister, they would have done him in long ago.

Do you know how to get on your big brother's nerves? Well, you COULD dance around in your underwear in front of the Play Station game, while playing on your harmonica. Letting repeated pleasant requests for you to "move please", embolden you to play louder and dance harder.

Do you know how to get on your Big Sister's nerves? Well, you could crouch at the closed door to her room and use two fingers to scratch ever so softly at the bottom of said door, so that sis thinks it is her beloved cat wanting to come in, and then roll around laughing abnoxiously when she answers it. Or you could constantly threaten that, while she is sleeping, you will remove the keys to her diary, which she wears around her neck and then you will know her deepest secrets.

Honestly, I don't know why they don't just pound him. It seems that there is just enough age difference between them for the older two to find him slightly funny. It saves his life I think. I think that humor may be his saving grace throughout life. I mean let's face it. Funny covers a whole lotta crap, ya know? I mean, if you've got "funny".....you've really got somethin'. This is a kid who can make fart noises with the backs of both knees at the same time. At the ripe old age of 8, this is like the mother of all party tricks! By all indications, this child will be good looking as well. Hmmmmm.......too much?
A mother worries.........

Hey! I updated my side bar! I can't figure out why Jess' link won't work. It looks right. anyone?

Have a great night!
Melissa

I should'a been a Navy Seal....

Yes, that's right. I should have been a Navy Seal, because I just endured Hell Week. And survived. I did NOT ring that bell to give up. I kept going. We all did. But what a week it has been. have you ever just felt as if you were under attack? That's the kind of week it was. We were hit on all sides, from aggravating little meaningless messes all the way to an enormous financial mistake.....made by our credit union........hours before the long weekend!!!!

But I must say, that looking back, I am really proud of how we managed. We didn't lose it. We stayed calm.....(o.k., maybe we spoke under our breath a lot..) but we APPEARED calm....and that's important, right? And there were bright spots, so we tried to hang onto those. We did it all together. Leaving the kids at home, while we hashed out it out with whomever we needed to, would probably have been easier. But we wanted to be together, so if you had a problem with us this week, you didn't have to just deal with Race. Or just me. You had to deal with all of us. And it is clear now, looking back, where God was holding our hand, showing us where to step, and sheidling us from the worst of the blow. He is so faithful, and He has blessed me beyond what I could have imagined. And for THAT I am so thankful.

(raising my glass) And here's to next week! (clink!)

G'night!
Melissa

What. A. Week.

I won't bore you to tears anymore with our sickness updates. Suffice it to say, that we keep thinking it's over...........and it's not. We have aired out the entire house twice, and dissenfected every hard surface. We aren't down in the bed with it anymore....but it ain't gone!

This week has been full of challenges of the nasty, irritating sort. From dead car battery, to slamming my finger in the sliding glass door, and a whole bunch of stuff in between. It's just been one of those weeks.

Yesterday was our ultra busy day with school lessons lasting till 2 and then out of the house by 3:45 for Martial Arts, Ballet, and Jiu Jitsu. Race got to watch everyone, so that's always good. But Race is also the Knower Of All People. So anywhere we go,( and I do mean ANYWHERE), he will almost immediately be standing with several people talking to him. It's funny, because Race is not a talker. But everybody loves him. It IS funny to watch.

Savannah's Acrylics class starts next week and it is on Thursday as well, so....heaven help me.

I have more to write, but we are going to be so slammed for the next few days, trying to get everything done before Race takes off. So, I'll have to try to squeeze in a few moments here and there.

Thanks so much for all the prayers. They are so appreciated.
Have a great day!
Melissa

Well......have you already heard the NEWS? We are all so excited to have another little one in the family!!! My kids are so thrilled, you'd think that THEY were the ones getting the new baby brother or sister!! Congrats Em, The Dude, Q and W!!

Savannah and Race had the BEST time last night on their date last night. It seems that our little girl is growing up. Now, I must confess, that these father-daughter dates have sometimes had Race come shaking his head a little. When she was younger, he came home on one occasion and whisper to me, "I ran out of stuff to talk to her about!!" So he just hugged her and watched her happily eat her dessert. THIS date however, was different. They talked, chatted, found a lot of common ground. SHe told her dad all about the things that she wants to do, and be. ALl about the book that she is writing. They truly had a wonderful evening.

I did roast a marshmallow last night, and it was heavenly. I was still keeping the fire going when Race and Savannah came home. The kids were all getting ready for bed, so Race and I yelled up to them that we were going for a quick walk..(our new favorite thing to do). We donned our headlamps and went for a walk in the woods. We sat and talked for a few minutes, when we realized that we were not alone. A buck had wondered up just a few yards from us. It took off stomping and running loudly through the woods, but you could tell that it still wasn't exactly sure what we were! It stopped and stomped and blew at us. Race blew back at it. This went on for a bit, and then we could hear it trying to circle around and check us out from the other side. What fun! We had to get back to the house, so when we got up to move, he took off again. But it was awesome. I love that stuff.

Now, as for the rest of the night....................you don't want to know. Remember when I thought that Race and I had managed to escape with the abbreviated version of that nasty virus?? Turns out...NO. To make a long story short, my last few trips from the bathroom were on my hands and knees! Race asked me this morning if there was anything that I needed, and I responded, "A bullet." Cheery,huh? So Race got Mom AND Dad duty today, and I have been flat on my back. He is out running the kids to all of their activities, + trying to pull together everythin he has to do to prepare to leave. This is the first time that I have sat vertically all day. I am keeping fluids down now, so should be on the mend. But, if you would, PLEASE pray for Race that he manages to escape this. This thing is wicked and it would not be good to deal with this over several flights. Ugh.

Thanks so much for all of the comments! And Grandmama, I didn't mean to make you cry. We're O.K., and He's O.K. and we beleive that we are doing exactly what God would have us to do..........but occasionally I turn my eyes from Him, and let the situation get the better of me. We're all just fine. We have had an amazing time together, and we all feel refreshed( except for this stomach thing!). God is so faithful to us.

Now, I am off to read Lynette's blog! I finally hounded her enough to get her to make a go at it! Lynette comments here all the time. Be sure and pay her a visit!

G'night,
Melissa

It is quiet around here tonight. The boys are settled around a campfire outback with headlamps in place. They have each had a big bowl of homemde vegetable beef soup, and have started in on the toasted marshmallows. They have become competent (and safe) enough to be able to do the entire operation on their own now. It gets rid of a lot of dead scrub that we have in the woods edge, and it keeps both boys in one place!! Strike a match- and you'll know where your boys are. Literally, they will stay out there for hours.

Savannah is out on a date tonight. A date with her dad. He took her to dance class, and then he was taking her out to eat at one of the restaurants downtown that she loves. Her birthday is in a few weeks, but Race will already be gone. He has been taking her on a birthday date for about 5 years now, and she was really looking forward to it tonight.

It is hard to set aside the idea Race is leaving. I try not to let it cloud the days that we have left. But it has become increasingly harder. I walked into the bedroom today, to see him labeling some of his clothing and shoes. Not with his name, but with his BLOOD TYPE. In big bold letters in likely places on clothing (bottom and sides of boots, inside-back of shirt, etc.) The idea of Race ever needing an emergency blood transfusion "in the field" is a difficult thing to ignore. Also as the date gets closer, he begins wearing his bullet/rocket proof vest around while he is working around outside just doing normal stuff. He does this to become accustomed to the enormous weight again. It is an amazing piece of equiptment. I can't tell you how thankful I am for the technological advances in this area, as well as the fact that he has the absolute best gear available. But, still, hard to watch. Hard. to. watch.

It was a gorgeous day today, and I got outside and cut back my perrinials, to get them ready for spring. I wish I had more bulbs to plant, but DRAT! I didn't get enough! I am thinking about vegetable garden seeds though, and maybe I'll start some things indoors for transplanting in spring.

We got some exciting news for our family last night, and I can't wait to be able to tell you about it! Have to keep mum for now though. Maybe tomorrow?

I am going to scoot out onto the deck and watch the boys. Maybe there are a few marshmallows left???

HAve a great night!
Melissa

Laney, tagged me!

2 Things

2 names you go by:
1. Mom
2. Babe- (I only answer to this one from Race. ;-)

2 parts of your heritage:
1) Southern
2) Southern...

2 things that scare you:
1.spiders
2. The thought process behind the liberal media.

2 of your everyday essentials:
1) Coffee
2) Sounds trite, but : make-up (minimal, but it MUST be done.)

2 things you are wearing right now:
1) Gap jeans
2) Awesome brazilian cowboy boots that I got from Race for Christmas!

2 favorite bands or musical artists
1) Still totally love CCR
2) Harry Connick, Jr

2 things you want in a relationship (other than real love):
1) Trust
2) Communication

2 truths:
1) I am rarely without a gun.
2) I am always blonde.....(by choice, *blush*)

.2 physical things that appeal to you (in the opposite sex):
1) Physical humor
2) A guy who carries himself confidently

2 of your favorite hobbies:
1) Gardening
2) Eating.......er...I mean cooking.

2 things you want really badly:
1) My husband to return home safely.
2.) A diamond engagement ring to replace the one that I LOST! (Long story, involves tenants and moving, and ugh. Still makes me sick to think of it.

2 places you want to go on vacation:
1) Rome
2) Antarctica (seriously)

2 things you want to do before you die:
1) Ski naked in the Alps
2) Parachute naked
*Ooooops! Wait a minute, those are Race's, not mine* Apparently, I am too deft to think of an answer for that one on my own.

.2 ways that you are stereotypically a chick:
1) I can never find anything to wear.
2) I like to talk on the phone a lot.

2 things you are thinking about now:
1) The Pink Panther (Jack is watching it in the other room)
2) What I can get for Jack to make him feel better

2 stores you shop at:
1) The Gap
2) TJ Maxx

2 people I would like to see take this quiz:
1) Well, I would LIKE to see Lynette take this quiz, but as she is not blogging yet, she could answer in my comments section. (nudge, nudge)
2.)Thom

We made it. We are alive.

Thanks so much for all the prayers and well wishes....and..um....the recipe?( Grandmama, remind me never to be sick to my stomach around y'all.....Graveyard Stew?? Ewwww....) LOL!

Apparently Race and I only got an abbreviated version of the nasty stomach virus, so for that we are very thankful. Unfortunately, the boys are going to miss their Martial Arts demo today. I really hate that, because this would have been the one that Race would have been able to see. Austin had a cool fight scene in it and Jack was doing some neat kick and pad combinations. (Sigh)

It looks like Savannah is going to be taking an acrylics class over at the Fine Arts Center. She is excited about this, and the time meshes fairly well with their other activities, so, I think that it will be really good. We are anxious to find a "break" into the art world so that she can stretch her talent.

I am not sure just what the weekend will hold. Everyone is on the mend, but NO ONE has any appetite....(way to drop those Christmas pounds!!), so I don't know if we will just hunker down for the weekend, or if cabin fever will drive us out. I think that we are all a little itchy just to get outdoors. It is crisp and cold here, so maybe we will come up with something like that.

Have a great day!
Melissa

WE'VE BEEN HIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This is a tale. A sad and frightening tale. A tale from the trenches. A tale of germ "warfare" and it's effects on a family. This tale is not for the squeamish. Those of you with weak stomachs.....look away.....find another blog.

The good news is that Savannah is feeling better. The BAD news is that it was NOT food poisoning, but rather some nasty stomach virus. And we've been hit.

Race stayed home with Jack from martial arts, who went from feeling a little under the weather........to hugging the side of the toilet bowl in less than an hour. By the time that Austin and I arrived home from martial arts, Jack was in the bed, but was still having to run to the bathroom regularly. (BTW, he would like for me to write here, that, for the record, he threw up 7 times.) We got everyone tucked in bed for the night, and had settled in for ourselves, after calling Lynette and Gregg and having to cancel our dinner for tonight, (sigh). Savannah was feeling better, but wisely decided to stay in her room, hunkered down with her book. Jack was up at regular intervals, running to the bathroom and yelling "MOM!!! I NEED SOME WATER!!" Which, of course he could only have a few sips of, or the whole process starts all over. So I get to be the one who yanks the straw from his parched lips, continually saying, "Just small sips....small sips." It was about 30 minutes after Jacks last call, that I heard IT. That sound. The sound that makes a mother know that something isn't right. A sound that makes a mother rush from her warm bed up the stairs. You all know what I'm talking about.

I get to the top of the steps just in time to witness Austin sitting straight up in bed vomiting a projectile pattern that could have won an award easily, if awards were given for such things. My first thought.........or shout, if my memory serves.....was GET UP!!!!! GET UP!! ("Why didn't he get to the bathroom????!!!", I thought.) I then rush to grasp the bathroom door knob.......and......IT"S LOCKED! (Insert horriffic scream here). Jack is in the bathrom, and he has locked the door!!!! Hearing my paniced cries, he quickly comes out and Austin bowls him over on his way IN. I rush a weak and shakey Jackson down the steps and into our bed.

*******There is a hush, as my sleepy and confused brain realizes what just took place, and the job that must be done.*******

Race comes upstairs with me. He finds this all amusing as he surveys the situation. UNTIL the cleaning up commences. Yes, THAT was not funny. At all. IT.WAS.BAD. We threw everything out.

Austin slept on the floor in front of the bathroom all night. It was very tempting to have him sleep in the tub, as this is a child who, when he was little would run through the whole house to find me , just so he could throw up at my feet. The rest of the night was filled with more of the same. More hugging of the toilet bowl and more raspy cries for, "water....water..."

It is morning. Savannah isn't venturing from her room. Jack is able to keep Gatorade and water down, and Austin isn't up yet. Race and I wait like lambs to the slaughter for our turn.

Have a good day today, enjoy your good health, and.......DON'T GO OUT OF THE HOUSE! ICK!

Melissa

I sit down in my chair for the first time today, with a glass of merlot beside me, and reflect on the last 2 days.
Savannah was sick yesterday with what we think was food poisoning. She is much better today, but still a bit weak. We did get school lessons back up and running, and everything went surprisingly smoothly! Race and Jack worked on building a new tree stand, in between Jack's subjects. They BOTH enjoyed that. I fixed dinner when we were finished with school, and then I was off and running with the boys to martial arts, (which, for the record, has turned into a 3 hour ordeal, instead of the previous 2 hour one!!!!).

Today was productive and exhausting! School went off without a hitch for the most part. We finished up at around 2:30. Then Savannah, Austin and I were off on a mission to get groceries as well as supplies for Austins patrol flag that he has been tasked with making for scouts. Race and Jack continued work on the tree stand.

WHen we got home, I helped Austin as needed on the scout flag. It turned out really cool. He got an army green fabric for the background, and then made a huge black bat for the center, (they're the Bat Patrol). He is doing all the work himself, but wanted to take it in before everything was finalized, for everyone to agree on. I fixed Santa Fe chicken for dinner, and just as it was ready to pull out, my neighbor showed up at the door. I visited with her, and got the guys their dinner so that they could get out the door on time for Boy Scouts.

So, now I am sitting down and enjoying my quiet time for a moment. I can feel the time crunch that is upon us. It is reminding us that Race will be leaving again soon. I am trying to ignore it for the most part, and so is he. But it is there.
I am hoping and praying for a renewed sense of duty, as well as the energy to accomplish that duty, really soon!

I caught up with Dy the other day, and she sounded so great! They are an amazing family, and if you haven't read her blog yet, you need to. They are so inspiring. (And yeah, they're for real......I've met them in person!)

Race and I are trying to arrange a meeting with Lynette and her husband Greg some time this week. Greg and Race were roommates in college, and I have met Lynette (who comments here) in person once before. We can hardly wait to catch up with them and their little ones! Hope that we pull it off!

We have a lot going on, so I know that my thoughts seem scattered. And they are. But we're making it! We are so blessed and I do feel truly thankful.

Have a wonderful night!
Melissa

My sister, THOM has posted pictures from our Christmas at mom and dads. There are some really cute ones!

On New Years Eve we fixed fried oysters. We LOVE oysters!!!!!! We sat around the table talking about all the stuff that had happened to us in '05. The kids counted up that dad had been to 13 diferent countries this year. wow. 13. We didn't even bother with the cities.

2005 was a year of perseverance for us. Kind of like a marathon. Having Race home at the end of it, was like winning the gold! It was a good year, and we learned a lot about the Lord, about ourselves, and what's really important.

Let me just say that yesterday was "one of those days".....or at least one of those MORNINGS! We had a very difficult time getting out the door to church. It was one of those Sundays, that everything seemed to work against you. But we made it. Our church was only having a family service yesterday, and the Lords Supper. I am so glad that we made it, because it changed our whole day, and we ended up being so blessed. Not just with the message and the receiving of communion, but also with the fellowship afterward.

Race and the boys went back out to church in the PM and played basketball. Austin got in on the game this time. Basketball is not something that he has ever spent a lot of time playing, so for him to jump in this game with all men , (ahem, very competitive men.....including the pastor) took some guts. They all had a blast! And everyone helped Austin with the rules, and he ended up playing really well. They had a great time.

We were supposed to start back to school today. Supposed to. Austin was invited to go skiing by another family at church, so I did what any good homeschooling parent would do......Called off school and let him go!

I will be putting some finishing touches on some reorganization projects that I started yesterday, and then I've got to hit the books. Doing the planning for Austin's lessons seems to get more difficult all the time. We are doing the Omnibus 2 which includes history, literature, and Theology ( with logic excercises and a lot of writing thrown in), then there is Algebra, Science Spanish and Latin. Sheesh! I am making myself weak in the knees just looking at the subjects all typed out there! Anyway, thankfully all of it is laid out for me, I just have to put everything into a coherant schedule that gels with what the other 2 are doing.

Have a great day!!

Heading back home.....and leaving "home"..

The other night, Jack and Q made ice cream! Grandmama (Race's mom) got them a non electric, ball-shaped, ice cream maker that you roll around on the floor. You place the ingredients inside one end of the ball, and the ice and rock salt into the other end of the ball, then roll away! Even Walker got in on the action. They had the best time with that thing! The kids were so proud of for being able to make ice cream all by themselves. Pretty cool little contraption, that I believe she picked up at Lands End.

We have been here since Christmas day, and each day, Em, The Dude and thier boys have been over here hanging out and visiting, too. Em's boys are unbelievably good! I am always so struck with admiration when I see the parents of little ones who remain patient, see the humor in situations, and generally just realize that this is all part of the training! What a nice thing to watch. I am not so sure that I "got" that, when my kids were all little. They are doing a great job there, and it really shows in those little boys. They are just a joy to be around.


Grandmama and Frank pulled out at o'dark thirty this morning, heading south. We had a wonderful visit with them. Dad fixed steaks, baked sweet potatoes, and mixed vegetables for all 13 of us last night( Thom had to leave earlier in the day). We all had such a good time talking, exchanging stories and laughing. Grandmama and Frank had to turn in early, but some of us held on till the wee hours. Great fun.

Today, we head back home. When we get there, it will be quiet, and full of "to-do" lists. The kids will busy themselves with the Christmas toys that we left home on Christmas morning, as well as playing with the pets who will be so happy to see them after being gone. Race and I will take down the tree, (which is, no doubt a fire hazard at this point) we'll do some cleaning and just settel back in. I have a lot of school work to attend to in the next few days, and I KNOW that Race wants to get out in the woods to hunt some.

I am making Mom and Dad promise to come down to visit us in the next week or so, so that we can treat THEM for awhile. And we are also hoping to drive south a ways and meet up with Gregg and Lynette for supper or something in the next few weeks...(guess I need to let them know about that, huh?)

Anyway, our holidays are winding down, and I have to say that I am so blessed to have such a wonderful family. To have been given such a perfect example to follow in raising my own kids. My mom and dad love each other...FIRST. And then, they, as the leaders, led us. They would not be divided....EVER. My parents showed us what it means to be selfless. To do just TRY to always "do the right thing". Even when you don't FEEL like it, and even when it is totally unfair. To accept people for who they are, and to only judge people by their actions. And always offer second chances to those who royally screw up and would like to try again. But also to know where to draw the line when misguided souls would foolishly take advantage. They taught us to stand up for one another, and to stick together as a family.
These things.......seeing them lived out in an everyday fashion, with all their ups and downs.......are the greatest gifts that my parents gave to me. I am convinced that these are the greatest things that any parent can do for their children. I sincerely hope that I am giving my own kids that wonderful inheritance so that they can move it on down the line.

Have a great day!
Melissa

Still Holiday'in..

We are still at my mom and dads, and I am starting to feel the pull of the list of things to be done at home, nagging at me.

Yesterday Race and Thomasina went hunting, but so far no one has killed anything. Race saw several large does, but they would have required hauling back across the creek. That creek is pretty deep right now! So, he held off. Tonight Austin is going out with them. They will all be back at it because all the freezers are pretty bare!
We exchanged gifts with Race's mom and Frank, which is always fun. The kids got a cool ice cream maker, that they are planning on trying out tonight.
Today we took the kids up to the skating center, so that Grandmama could watch them skate. Having grandparents who own their own skating rink tends to make children learn to roller skate REALLY well. And they do. I, however, am slightly less coordinated. I donned my roller blades and only fell once. The falling looked bad, but the getting up looked a bit worse!

We all took a trip up to IKEA and looked, and looked and looked.. , all wide eyed at all of the cool, clean, efficient furniture and gadgets. We took home a catalogue and a lot of new ideas for the house. The plan is to brainstorm through the catalogue, and make another trip up in a month or so. You cannot beat the prices for the quality! (Ahem, the cinnamon buns in the cafe' are also tough to beat!) It was alot of fun........until we headed out a little later than planned, and saw the traffic...........and then got rear-ended by a little Nissan. We barely felt the bump in the suburban, but the girls car was all torn up. No one was hurt though, and after about 15 min. we were on the road again.

I love being up here with my family, but I really need to be getting back to my own house, to get school back up and running on time, and just so that we can relax a bit more before Race has to leave again. That time is getting here entirely too fast, and there is a lot that we would like to be able to do before he leaves. ACK!

Have a good day!
Melissa

Ooooo....A belated Merry Christmas! If you want to know all about ours, before I have a chance to sit down and really write about it, go to Em's blog, (on the sidebar at Me and the Guys). She told about it beautifully.

We have had an amazing holiday, and it has left us feeling wonderfully blessed. We are still at mom and dads, and we picked up Race's mom from the airport last night. SO it is really a wonderful time. We are enjoying each others company, catching up from lost time.......................and......eating, of course. Mom and dads house is the absolute ULTIMATE in southern hospitality!

Can't wait to catch up on all the blogs from the holidays, and I will have to sit down with a cuppa joe to read Dy's. I can hardly wait! I know that the happy light beams can be seen from miles away, shooting out from THAT house!!! So many prayers answered.

Have a wonderful day!

O.k., I THINK we're done. Really.....I think we're done Christmas shopping. I feel like I have to keep running back out, because I forgot someone. But now I am getting really excited about the gifts that I got for different people, and can't wait to see how they react when they get them.

I'm happy to say that we were able to secure a ticket for Race's mom to fly up! We will be going to pick her up from the airport on the 26th, and taking her out for a bite to eat, before heading back to Mom and Dads to visit with everyone.

I have enjoyed SO MUCH having Race home for the holidays. I am not sure if EVER, in our 15 years of marriage, he has been home and participated in all the "holiday stuff". From the tree, to the lights, to the shopping, to the wrapping, to the baking. This has really been an undescribable blessing for us all.

The kids each made their own gingerbread houses today. Normally we build an imaginative gingerbread house for the Christmas party at our house, early in the month. But because of our trip, we were unable to pull it off this year. I really missed doing the party AND the gingerbread house. We have done our own home, the North Pole, a log cabin, Redwall Abbey, and a bunch more, all out of ginger bread. My only rule is that EVERYTHING on it must be edible. This year, the kids were going to do Big Ben, because of our trip. But with no Christmas Party to show it off, we decided that idea might best be done next year.

Last night Thom came over for dinner. We had Crab Bisque, a salad, french bread and Christmas cookies for dessert. AND my new, FAVORITE cocktail.......The Cosmopolitan! I LOVED that drink! And it's so pretty.

Race brought out the lap top and showed us pictures that he has taken from all over the Mid East and Africa. The pics were amazing, and the commentary hilarious. For every picture of a woman in a burka he would say, "And that's my wife, you know, over THERE"......"And , right there- those are my two boys.." Heh, heh, funny guy. Anyway, this is the first time that we have been able to sit with him and look at these photos with him, and have him tell us something about them. It's cool to see your husband in front of the pyramids! It was a good time.

Have y'all had any problems with your blog time and date stamp screwing up? Mine is only working about half the time, and if I forget to check it, sometimes it will put my new post back in Nov!

Bridget, did you get my email?
Lynette, the pic. and card was to die for! I think that you may have a little artist on your hands there! Tell Will that the picture was beautiful, and all of my kids were quite impressed.

Have a great night!
Melissa

You can thank me later..

THOMASINA has finally posted about her singles happenings. I shamed her into it, by pointing out that her priorities in Blog World are somewhat askew. (snort!)

Go ahead, go read..........you can thank me later.

O.K., so someone has to go to the store tomorrow. We are out of saltines, and running low on butter.

Race and I have been cleaning out our unfinished basement (which we hope to have "finished" sometime before we die). It has turned out to be quite the undertaking, but we are making progress. One of the problems is all of Race's stuff. He has A LOT of STUFF. Not junk, mind you. But stuff for work. Each job, each trip, each country requires different protective gear, weaponry, techno gadgetry, etc. So we are in the process of trying to figure out the best way to organize the "Go Room". I will say again, it is quite an undertaking. And Thank-heavens that EM has an awesome Ebay business, and can sell some of this stuff for us!

I took the boys to martial arts, and Savannah and I ran around and picked up a few last minute items, and of course got coffee (she got a frap).

We are trying to convince Races mom to let us fly her up and spend a few days with us, and we are REALLY hoping that that works out. We would LOVE to see her.

Thomasina is coming over for dinner tomorrow night. We are having Crab Bisque. Maybe a crisp salad on the side? Oooo...and I have a treat! I got the stuff to make Cosmopolitans! What a pretty cocktail! Don't know about dessert yet. Any ideas? Nothing too rich, because the Bisque is chock full of cream. We are looking forward to hearing about her latest adventures at the whole Matchmaker thing, (since, OBVIOUSLY she isn't EVER going to post about it!), and also showing her our London pictures. Can't wait!

G'night!
Melissa

Well, last night at about 12:00, I was sitting in my dimly lit kitchen, looking bewilderingly at my 14 yr old son. He was sitting across the table from me eating cheese flavored rice cakes, and laughing in silent, hysterical laughter, while he tried to recount all of the funny things that happened while skiing. But why was I bewildered, you ask? Because he was doing all of this with an enormously swollen lip, and the remnants of a very bloody nose. Apparently, Mr. Alpine skiier had cleared one jump, and was about to clear the next one, but was unprepared for the ditch in front of it. One ski caught, and SLAM! Face meets ice. If he hadn't turned his head in time, all the weight would have come down square on his nose. What was so shocking, is how little it bothered him. All he could talk about, (with his disfigured face) was how much fun he had, how he had gone down the black diamond without falling, and all the funny things that were said. THIS, from the once little six year old boy who would need a stretcher to carry him off of the Pee-Wee soccer field, if he accidently stubbed his toe. THIS from the boy, who at 10 asked to be taken to the hospital and put to sleep, to have a splinter removed. And there he was......sitting in the kitchen, taller than me, with his face all swollen and smeared with dried blood......laughing hysterically at the great time that he had.
Did you hear that? That was the sound of time swooshing by me...

As my latest batch of Saltine Toffee cools in the fridge, I thought that I would share the recipe (for you Jess).

Saltine Toffee
1/2 cup of butter and 1/2 cup of sugar in a sauce pan, until it is melted. Let it bubble for a few minutes. Then pour it over about 35 saltine crackers that you have placed, in one layer, on a foil lined cookie sheet. Place in 400 degree oven, for a few minutes until it is really bubbly. Take it out and spread with 1/4 to 1/2 cup of chocolate chips. Let them sit a second until warmed, and then spread them evenly. Place in the fridge until hardened, break and enjoy! Then hide the saltines, so that no one eats them before you can make more.

It has been kind of a lazy day around here today. I am finishing up a lot of last minute Christmas details. And I guess we will be doing a lot of wrapping tonight. We will do some baking tomorrow, and then Thomasina is coming over for dinner on Wednesday night. I bought the book The Littlest Angel to read aloud...(we have quite a collection of Christmas picture books, as I try to find a worthy book each year), so we may get to that tonight. It is pretty quiet and relaxed here this year. And it feels so good.

Well, the Saltine Toffee should be about done, so I am outta here.

G'night!
Melissa

First, and foremost. Laney: I read your comment below, about "Hot Mamma and her family goes to London", and may I just say...(sniff, sniff)...... God Bless You....You dear, dear woman. (sniff,sniff)...God Bless You. A thousand thank-you's.

I finally talked to Dy last night. (Thanks Jess) They are all plugging away like champs. She really sounded great. Like a woman on a mission. Just to give you an idea, she said that she will absolutely freak if she goes into labor early.......................because she still has 3 more rooms to insulate! Yep, she's doing fine. Also, I know that I can't be the only one who was concerned that she would buy her new baby girl's clothes at Lowes, but as it turned out some of her cyber friends were a step ahead, and have sent baby girl clothes, and other things that have just been awesome. She is genuinely touched by the kindness of these people.
Anyway, I was so relieved to speak to her, and just to find out that things were going well, and that they were carrying on like the troopers that they are. Thought I'd give a bit of an update.

We've had the best day today. Church was wonderful, and Race is really loving it. Everyone has made him feel so welcome. Tonight, he and Jack took the jeep back out to church. We don't have a Sunday night service, but the men get together and play basketball. Apparently, they leave the robes at home when it comes to playing ball. Race said it was VERY competitive. He loved it. He has a funny way of playing basketball. He believes that they give you have 4 fouls.........so, you may as well use 'em. LOL

While they were gone, Savannah and I ran out to Target to pick up a few things......o.k...o.k....I HAD to go out to get more butter, because I am completely HOOKED on that damned Saltine Toffee. It's like cocaine, I tell ya. I gotta have it. Thank-you Cribchick . Thank-you. Anyway, I made the excuse that we needed wrapping paper..............but we got butter too.

One of Austin's friends from church invited him skiing today. I tell ya, Mrs. H is ONE BRAVE LADY. She was taking 6 boys skiing.........by herself. She's the kind of lady that you wouldn't want to cross, though! They are a great family, and we couldn't be more delighted with Austin's choice of friends so far. I know that they are having a blast. I can't wait to hear about it.

Have a great night,
Melissa

Checking in...

I have to tell you, that I am having the nicest holiday, with Race at home. It has really just been so wonderful. I can't remember when I have seen him so relaxed. He seems like himself again. He's fun and hilarious and he's spending time doing the things that we all love. The kids are just bubbling over with happiness, because dad is ...............well.................being dad. Their dad. It really has been great.

When he leaves for the next trip is going to be really hard. But I won't think about that now. I'll think about that tomorrow.

We had an ice storm here and were without power for almost 24 hours. It.was.cold! But, we made the best of it. And, hey, there's nothing better to getting up to the sun rising on an ice covered forest, hurrying to get dressed, and heading out to breakfast. My kids love power outtages. They love to get out the oil lamps and the candles. I can remember feeling that way when I was little, too. Everything just seemed so different. Funny how it doesn't really seem like that when you're an adult! Anyway, I wrote out my Christmas cards by lamp light, in the kitchen, with my down coat on!

For the first time in......oh....I dunno how many years.....Race has been here to help with all of the gift buying, and tree trimming, and house decorating, and all of the other stuff that we have always enjoyed doing at the holidays. Last night, we decorated our tree. (Yes, we are later than usual, but we were overseas, people, c'mon!) It was difficult to FIND a tree, because of the ice storm, but we found a nice one. And it smells wonderful. Our ornaments are a big mixture of home made things that the kids and I have made with the kids over the years, along with special ornaments that we have picked up from special places that we have traveled to. (I got to put on the London ornament!) I made home made pizza, and then later we watched a Charlie Brown Christmas and had warm, iced cinnamon rolls. Race is loving it. We are loving it.

I am starting to get worried about Dy. Has anyone talked to her? She and I played phone tag a few times several weeks ago before we left for our trip.. I have left a few messages, but I am not even sure that I am calling the right numbers anymore. Anyone been in touch?

Have a great day!
Melissa

A few London pics

O.K., here are a few pictures (remember, you asked for it). I am not supposed to put Race's photos on here, so I will have to "fix" them a bit, before I post them. But here are some that we took.

The view near our hotel, on the Thames. 

Me and Savannah on the Jubilee Bridge. 

The obligatory Red Phone Booth picture! 

The kids at Tower Bridge. 

Me and the kids at the Tower of London. Not too far from the sight of my beheading. 

Big Ben! 

Outside the palace at Whitehall, watching the Horse Guards. 

A few London pics!

Me and the kids, scarfing down fish and chips at Race's favorite pub, The Clarence. 

Pinch Me! I'm in London!

We are having a wonderful time! I don't think that I will ever tire of seeing and hearing Big Ben while walking across the Jubilee Bridge! We have seen and done so much. We took a seemlessly smooth ride on the incredible London Eye, we watched the changing of the guards and revelled in the parades with their bagpipes and pageantry as they marched by Buckingham Palace. We toured Westminster Abbey, (practiced our latin translation skills on the tombs there), and stayed late for the Evensong. What an incredible experience to partake in a familiar Protestant service and hear the sound of choir boys singing in that enormous gothic Abbey, built for the human voice. Truly a moving experience.

We took the kids to Piccadilly. All the shops and windows are magnificent! We let them shop at Hammleys. They were amazed at the World of Narnia that was built within, and were even more excited to find out that we had gotten cinema tickets at a posh theatre to see the movie that night. AMAZING! The kids have tried all sorts of food while we have been here, but everyone's favorite has been fish and chips served up in a smokey old Pub, called The Clarence.

We have walked for long periods down by the Thames, and the city is absolutely breathtaking all lit up, with Big Ben chiming in the background.

At the Tower of London, the Yeoman Warder guide, took great delight in using ME in his demonstration of a beheading, in front of about 50 people! The kids just ate this up. What fun!

Today we saw the British museum as well as the Baden-Powell House (guy who began scouting, i.e, boy scouts). Then we took the kids down to Covent Gardens to do a bit of shopping, and to see the sights. We ate dinner outside beside the Christmas Tree in the square. The kids drank hot chocolate, while Race and I sipped mulled cider to keep warm. Austin, Savannah and Jackson got such a kick out of all the entertainment in Covent Gardens, from the mimes to the singers, to the magicians. All very exciting!

The people here, have been so accomodating, and one feels st home almost immediately. The city is so service oriented, that it is incredibly easy to get around. We have been very centrally located, so we have been able to walk almost everywhere. I would LOVE to know how far we have walked total on this trip!

Well, that's about all I have time for, but I did want to check in. We are truly having a lovely time, and the kids have just taken right to everything. We are looking forward to coming home, but we LOVE LONDON!!!!! I have to run.

Cheers!
Melissa

C'mon in for chili and cookies!

In Dy's defense, she does not have an internet connection yet. I just hope that she doesn't get used to NOT BLOGGING. I mean, what if she just started enjoying the Forever Home and all it's joys with her family so much, that she just shrugged off posting about it. (shudder) Nahhhh...couldn't happen.


It has been snowing here all day. It is a wet, heavy snow, and alot of it sank into the ground, but there's an inch or two on the ground to play in. It is great packing snow for snow balls. I was led stupidly, once again this year, like a lamb to the slaughter, straight into an ambush. Race and Jack were outside playing in the snow, and Race told me to set the trash bag on the deck, and he would take it out. I opened the kitchen door, and started to open the screen door, and they started at me, nailing me with snowballs that they had collected for the ambush. I scream in terror, (remembering last years sneak attack that left my shirt filled with icy snow). In my confusion and panic, I try to open the screen door to release the trash bag in my hand, and Jack rushes at me. I took a direct hit to the face, with another missile-like snowball whizzing past my head and landing on the kitchen counter near the coffee pot. After taking another hit to the side of the head, I was able to slam the kitchen door shut. I staggered around momentarily bewildered. I creep up to the door and see Jack and Race exchanging high-fives, while taking out the trash. Savannah had been getting herself some chili, and saw the whole thing.

With snow on the ground this morning, we headed out to breakfast. This is a rare treat, because Race is not a huge breakfast eater. I, however, grew up on a farm, and could simply live on eggs,grits,sausage, biscuits and gravy. It was fun to trek out in the snow, down to the local breakfast hole with fresh coffee waiting when we got there. While we were there, we had the "safety talk" for our trip, and talked about "What would you do if....(insert various dangerous occurrences here)". I think we're set!

This evening, Race and Jack took out a salt block and some corn to put out back in the edge of the woods. (No, he's not hunting now...while we are handgun wealthy.....we are apparently rifle poor at the moment. A situation my former sniper husband intends to remedy soon!) Anyway, I love to watch the deer and turkey outside in the mornings. (Ahem.....I also love to see them neatly packaged in my freezer....but.....another time perhaps).

We are all feasting on chili tonight, with freshly baked chocolate chip cookies for dessert. I will try to get outside in a bit and take a few pictures to post.

G'night y'all
Melissa

On Saturday Race took the boys to the outdoor store and to open matt day at Martial Arts. This left Savannah and I to get a bit of shopping done by ourselves, (mostly at Barnes & Noble). We ran into some friends while we were out, and just had a great time.

Dy and I keep playing phone tag, and I still haven't been able to catch up with her. Are y'all missing her blog as much as I am???


We went to church this morning, and participated in a beautiful service. This is the first Sunday that my family has taken communion together in a Looooong time. It was wonderful. The service left us feeling humbled and blessed by God's goodness, grace, and mercies toward us.

We chatted way too long after the service with folks whom Race is just getting to know, but this also gave him a chance to get to know some of the friends that the kids have made too, and see how comfortable and welcome we all feel at this church. What a blessing. We grabbed a bite to eat before coming home.

Race and Austin spent a long time out in the yard throwing the baseball, and working on A.'s pitching. Race is mighty impressed......mighty impressed. Jack and Savannah helped me put up Christmas lights. The rest of the day was spent watching football, making bows for all of the wreaths on our windows, and generally just decorating the outside of the house. I LOVE to do this. I love it all! And before we go to bed tonight, the entire family will be forced out into the cold, to stand in the yard and gaze up at my handy work. I LOVE Christmas! And I am definitely with Cribchick I do all my shopping from a chair in front of my computer. Click n'spend! I LOVE that all my packages are delivered to my door........and I can compare prices so easily!

Speaking of being delivered to my door......did y'all order your free panties from Hanes? Mine arrived in the mail the other day! How about that? I go to Em's Blog and click on the Free Panties link (you'll have to scroll down a ways when you get there)......and BOOM. Free panties right to my door. The internet is great isn't it? Thanks Em!

My mom has been feeling a little under the weather this weekend, so I am hoping that she is perking back up really soon.

They are calling for snow here tonight and in the morning, so maybe we will get some pictures. The kids are excited and already made sure that they knew where their snow bibs and boots were!

G'night Y'all!

Melissa

Well.......THAT was weird!

I created this post last night, and published it to the blog, but for some reason, it went down to the Nov 30th date! Oh well, I brought it back up here where it is supposed to be:


We got new tires, got Race in for a check-up and blood work with the N.D, grabbed a bite to eat out for lunch, and cleared away some of the pesky paper work and mail that piles up for Race while he is gone. He took the boys out for Martial Arts this evening, while Savannah and I made supper with pecan pie for dessert. Jack and Austin are on K.P duty tonight. So, here I sit in front of the computer, while the rest of the fam is eating warm pecan pie and watching............."Leave it to Beaver". Yep, that's right. We love that show. Let's face it, we've all had an Eddie Hascall in our past. And as I watch June Cleaver in her crisp dress and pearls, vaccuming the crown molding.........I say aloud, "I do that". There is silence and everyone stares at me, because they know, without a doubt, that our door facings and crown mouldings have never seen a vaccuume. Oh well......my mama had a housekeeper.
Race has organized all of the camping gear for our family. Each person has a large container with his/her name on it. Everyone has a cool backpack, a down sleeping bag, a sleeping pad, and tents, etc, etc,. He LIVES for this stuff. WE. MUST. HAVE. COOL.GEAR. I never truly appreciate this, until we are camping or hiking.........and.........I am actually warm and dry! Anyway, he enjoys the heck out of doing that stuff! Too funny!
So, tell me. Do your husbands do things that leave you scratching your head and wondering.."huh?"
G'night,Melissa

Out for a hike with dad!

Our creek.

Well, our hike was AWESOME yesterday. Everything was beautiful, and it was so good to get the whole family outdoors hiking around our familiar woods.

Race took Austin to scouts last night, and they had an awesome time. Several boys want to come out and shoot, so I think that Race is going to go ahead and arrange to get a range for a day coming up. Too fun. Tonight we had martial arts. Austin has totally outgrown his Jiu Jitsu Gi, so we had to order a new one. Actually, we ordered 2, because Race is suiting up as well. (You knew that was coming, didn't you?) He has had some Jiu Jitsu training in one of his former positions, and is really looking forward to having Austin teach HIM! "Tap or snap!"

For Savannah's writing curriculum, we have been using Writing Strands. It is a good fit for her, because she doesn't want anything too constrictive. She has always liked to write, and I didn't want anything to dampen that natural creativity of hers. We came to a place in this curricula where we talked a lot about how a good author is able to have all of his readers "see" what the author "sees" in her mind. We talked about the power of words, etc. Well, this totally clicked with her. She has been typing away on her computer for the past several days. I am so proud of what she has accomplished! It is amazing how her writing has matured. I will have to post an excerpt. It is just leaps and bounds ahead of what she was doing previously. I am just thrilled, and so is she.

Jackson is just having the best time soaking all of this DadTime in. They have worked out together, played ball together, wrestled together, played video games together and taken walks in the woods together. This is exactly what Jack needs, and it has made a world of difference in his attitude. He has returned to his happy-go-lucky self, and that is such a relief to me. I thoroughly enjoy watching Race fill a spot that only he can fill.

I was especially thrilled to have Race at home yesterday. We had a flat tire! So the guys got out there this morning, and got it changed, and we head off to the tire place tomorrow for a new pair. And....ummm... OUCH! Those suburban tires ain't cheap! Can't complain though, they have taken a TON of miles and abuse. But still......OUCH!

We are looking forward excitedly to our trip, and I am feeling really good about the grasp that the kids have on British history and the Middle Ages. Most of our time will be spent sight seeing, and I think that this time period will truly come to life for them. Can't wait!!!!!!!

G'night!
Melissa

Tah-tah!

We are off to the Mother Land. Our staunchest ally. Across the pond to Jolly Old England. I shall extend to the Queen all your best wishes.I shall cruise the Thames. I shall take the cat walk on the Tower of London, and lay my neck on the executioners block. I shall hear Evensong at Westminster Abbey, and visit St Pauls Cathedral. And you can bet your life that we will feasting on fish and chips from Race's favorite pub before the sun goes down on our first day of arrival! WE.ARE.SO.EXCITED!

Internet cafe's are abundant (and cheap) in London, so, who knows, maybe I'll dive into one and post! We purchased Journals for the kids to write in each night, and got everyone a new book for the plane. We packed light (backpacks, weighing in at less than 13 lbs each!), and warm and dry, with comfortable walking shoes and socks. We're off! I'll take plenty of pictures!

Cheers!!
Melissa

checking in

Thanks for all of the comments! Cribchick- you have no idea how many times I retyped that sentence so that it would NOT have that connotation! (snort) Too funny!
Anniesue, consider yourself added to the list. I will get mom your address. And I guess that I will have to track Dy down mid-move to get their new Forever Home address.
Grandmama, you can SOooooo expect a phone call today!
Things are good here. Really good. It is a great thing to know that you can pick right up where you left off. We have been concentrating on living each day to it's fullest, and not letting all of the pesky little inconveniences, that invariably come along, sidetrack us. That is good medicine. School is getting done, but it is a bit more laid back than normal, with time to wander off on a subject , all together. Of course history always pulls us down it's long rabbit trails, but this week so does science with it's simple machines. Race has filled in all the gaps where I would have been stretched too thin. Savannah was trying out some new computer skills, and was having some trouble with her writing, at the same time that Austin got stuck on a Algebra problem, at the same time that Jack and I were doing a reading lesson. That is a normal day. But to have Race there to figure out the Algebra, and then to help with Savannah's technical problem, was just such an incredible relief!
My only problem is that I now have to fight Race for computer time!!!! LOL! Ya can't have everything , right??
Well, the monsoon rains have lifted here, and it is an absolutely gorgeous day. We are going to put lessons off till later, and we are headed out for a walk. All of us. Good stuff y'all, good stuff!

Melissa

Dy: you asked why I was blogging while Race was home, and we were ALONE. One word: FOOTBALL. Now, lest you think ill of me, let it be known that I had already partaken of several hours of watching and made some awesome snacks before needing a break.

This morning, I got to attend church with Race. I can not express how awesome this was. I introduced him to everyone that I know, and we just had such a great time getting to know everyone. 2 of Austin's buddies came by looking for A.(still at mom and dads), and I introduced Race to them. They were in awe. I am not sure what they have heard, but obviously....something. I thought that they were going to talk Race's ear off(after the uncomfortable staring was over!). Truly great kids. It was fun. Race can not wait to be able to attend the scout meeting this week. They would like for him to conduct an orienteering (map and compass) course some time this year. And don't even get me started on the marksmanship thing......we are Soooo on that! too fun!

We grabbed a bite to eat, and then it was on to meet mom and dad to pick up the kids. I am told that at the birthday party, my kids showed off all their boogie-down skills on the skate floor. Some of which I did not even know that they had! Hmmmm...can't wait to get a full report from Em. The kids had an awesome weekend!

So, here we are all back together again. I had to make a grocery run for the week( been awhile since I have done that!). We had chef salads, baked potato's, and bruchetta for dinner. I still have to plan our school week, and we are making a few final notes and arrangements for London, but we are being pretty laid back about it. We SOoooo need a family trip! I'd better run.

G'night,
Melissa

Happy Birthday Q!!

I can hardly believe that my little nephew is 5 years old! The kids are at the big Birthday Bash this evening, at mom and dads skating center and will be back home tomorrow. I know that they are having a good time, because Em always knows how to throw a good party! The theme of this years birthday soiree' was "Bugs", so I know Jack is right at home!

Race and I have had a pretty productive (albeit quiet), day. We have been hashing over basement remodeling, and ended up making a trip to Lowes to look at "stuff". We started cleaning out the shed, to make room for all the stuff that we need to clean out of the basement! Race has visions of a "war room" for all of the "war bags" that we now have hanging on various hooks around the basement.

We filled out various monumental stacks of paperwork that Race's job requires, detailing every breath of our existence for the past decade. Very fun. Ask me how many times I have done this. Ask me. yes. Very fun.

We went window shopping, trying to finalize what we are getting everyone for Christmas. This will probably be the last trip to the store that I make until after January. The stores can totally ruin the Christmas spirit for me, so I stay away, and do almost all of my shopping online. (However, for whatever reason, British consumerism doesn't seem to annoy me at all, and I can hardly wait to take the kids to the famous Hammleys Toy Store in London to see 3 floors of magnificent toys tastefully decorated for the season!) *snort*

We watched a LOT of college football. Looked at Races' pictures from his last trip.For dinner, I fixed us chef salads and warmed a loaf of bread with herbed olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.

I can't wait for church tomorrow, as Race has only been to this church once before. I can't wait to introduce him to the folks who have been so kind to ask about him and offer their prayers for someone that they had never even met. I love this church.

G'night,
Melissa

I'M HERE!

Hi ! I am back! And I am relaxed!
We had a wonderful Thanksgiving at mom and dad's. The whole family was there this year, and it was just great! There was smoked turkey, baked turkey, smoked ham, and about....ooohhhh, I dunno.....about 30 other side dishes and desserts. I took my regular pecan pies, which everyone likes, I think, because this recipe eliminates that gross layer of "jelly" that you find in most. Em's pumpkin pies are always devoured, and Thom made Creme de Menthe parfaits....."to(ahem) settle the stomach", as my mother likes to say. My Uncle brought a bottle of Irish Country Cream. This is something like Baileys, but.............oh.my.goodness. I had never even heard of this, but definitely a new favorite for me! Also, the obligatory and traditional Christmas card picture was taken. My Mom sends out hundreds of cards every year, and she started the "family picture" card, way back when we girls were still in elementary school. It is always neat to look back and see when we have added spouses or babies to the family. Great tradition, (I am glad that mom put up with all of our complaining over the years, and made us do it anyway!).

Race is picking up where he left off. He is more relaxed than I have seen him in about a year and a half. I just can't tell y'all how awesome it is to have all of us under one roof again. It is so great to have a little "back-up", a little "leverage"in the old parenting team again. You see, we have always looked at parenting, as a bit of a tag team effort, and for most of this year.....there's been no one in my corner (physically) to TAG! It feels good to be a team again! And the kids are just in heaven!

Race brought back the usual souvenirs from his journeys, but he also surprised us by buying new back packs for us all. He is in the process of "outfitting" everyone with all weather jackets and shoes. Although this stuff is also made for hiking and camping, we will breaking these items in on a family trip to London in a few weeks! We are really excited, and this fits so perfectly with the mediaeval period of history that the kids have been studying, (as well as boning up on the ole' British history!). I love England, and Race knows London like the back of his hand. The travel idea is one that we have longed for for our kids. I suppose it is due in part to Race's job, and the way it affects your thinking, but we would really like to make the world a much smaller place for our children. One in which they would not be afraid to move about. So, off we go! The idea being that each child learn to become responsible for his or her own gear, and generally learn to be confident in traveling. Race is P.E.R.F.E.C.T for this! SO this is exciting. It is a goal. And we hope that it is just the beginning.

Well, I have to go and get dinner going (*gush*). But I will be back to writing again regularly. I can't wait to go and catch up on everyone's blogs!

Oh, and DY. My Mom said more than once, how much she wished that you and Charles and the boys could have come for Thanksgiving again this year. You were missed! (incidentally, so was your bread!)

RACE IS HOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thank you for all of your prayers! Race is home safe and sound. He was shocked when he saw how much his children had grown and changed. I will write more in a few days when the homecoming festivities have died down. Thank you again, so much. We are all so thrilled!

Caregivers

First thing this morning, I spoke with my mother-in-law. She has recently had to make an emergency flight to FL to care for her 92 year old mother, Races' grandmother. " Gammy" to all of us. It seems that Gammy was treated absolutely horribly in the hospital down there, and as soon as Races' mom was aware, she was on a plane. She has been feverishly making plans to bring Gammy home in order to give her the round-the-clock care that she needs. Races' mom is one of those people who was born to be a caregiver. She is the kind of person who would do whatever needed to be done, without giving it a thought. A comforter.My mom is like this too. Ask anyone. It's true. they know how to be sure that you are warm and dry and comfortable and well fed with just the right kinds of foods. What a blessing these kinds of people are on this earth.
Now, I will go ahead and level with you here. This sort of care giving could not be more foreign to me. I mean it. If you are sick for more than 2 days in this house, you'd better hire outside help. ********Now, isn't that sad? But, alas, there's the ugly truth. What a shock it must have been to Races' system the first time that he got sick after we were married! Poor thing. I mean, I start off with the best of intentions, but after a few days, it's all I can do not to yell from the other room, "C'MON! YOU DON'T HAVE TO BREATHE THAT LOUD!" It's funny, because after our first year of marriage, I can't think of him ever being sick enough to miss work. I guess he just figured, "What's the use". Poor guy.
You know, when we were growing up, I don't ever remember seeing my dad, sick. And my dad NEVER, and I mean NEVER missed work. Maybe in my wee brain I processed that into, "Men aren't supposed to be sick." I dunno. I am better with the kids, but still, nothing compared to my mom, or Race's mom. And while I didn't get the "caregiver" gene, I do believe that my daughter Savannah got it. She is a sweetie and is such a good helper. She truly tries to make people feel better. I, on the other hand, approach these things in more of a determined...."well, what the h*ll are we gonna DO about it?" Come to think of it, I think those words come DIRECTLY from my dad. Yes. My dad. Whose idea of fun was to pull out his pocket knife and pretend that he was about to CUT the tiny splinter from the sole of his daughters delicate foot, that she had so trustingly given him. (Incidently, we got a lot of splinters, and he did this to all of us, so you would think that we would have caught on at some point). My dad. Whose words of comfort were, "Well, I don't know what good crying's gonna do about it!" Have I mentioned that there were only us three GIRLS in the family? Poor dad.
So, I guess dad gave us our strength, and mom gave us our comforting. And wouldn't ya jus know..........it worked out! And as for me...........I am so thankful for the true caregivers in this world and equally thankful that the members of my family seem to be healthy as an ox. ( as oxen?)
Sending out prayers for Gammy and prayers for Dy tonight.
G'night,
Melissa

Well, I think that I am gonna live. Yay! I awoke this morning, giving thanks for the amazing healing powers of the human body. I am sore. I am swollen. And the inside of my mouth is bruised. BUT, I took advil (a LOT), and it really didn't slow me down much at all today. And for that I am SOooo thankful!

Things with Race are looking more positive, but still uncertain. We are hopeful.

I am looking forward to Thanksgiving very much this year. I can't wait to have our whole family together again. My Mom and Dad always manage to have various "extra" folks at their Thanksgiving table (s), and over the years, that in and of itself has become a part of the tradition. For the past several years I have had to be introduced to at least one or two people at the house. It is always spilling over with GREAT food, in great quanities, it is loud, and it's comfortable. I love it. What is your Thanksgiving like?

I feel like I haven't seen Em's boys in forever.....and I simply cannot wait for "Uncle Race" to see how much they have grown!

School is going O.K., I guess, but to be honest, we have all had a really difficult time concentrating on ANYTHING this week. Nothing too staggering to report there, except that so far, Algebra is going smoothly (whew!), and A.'s finally beginning to understand the writing process. Savannah is on the 5th book in the Chronicles of Narnia series, and is anxiously awaiting the new Warriors book due out Dec 1. And Jack? Well, still my reluctant student, but I WILL outlast him. I WILL. I know I will. (weak smile)

Well, that's about it. Seriously. I have searched the recesses of my brain.......and THAT"S it. That's just all I've got. Nothing more. But, hey, I'm pretty sure that I have had more boring posts than this one! I just can not concentrate.

Tomorrow is a busy one, so I guess I'd better get myself to bed, and hope that my half-swollen face is back to normal by tomorrow.

G'night,
Melissa

O.K., I am still hanging in there. But let's just say, today wasn't actually the greatest. Without going into details , ( I firmly believe the recalling of which might push me over an edge that I can not return) , I spent the majority of my time today in the Scalded Dog, and the dentist chair. The dental thing ended up being unexpected oral surgery, and I am to expect" bruising and swelling". Oh. Good. So I sit here in front of my computer with my mouth packed with guaze and an ice pack close by.

Anyway, My sisters both posted tonight, so go and read their blogs! I posted a few of the pics from the other night. Thomasina is doing three 16 x 20 's (one of each of the kids) in B&W for my living room. This was the last one to get done. I am so thrilled with it! She is fabulous! I can't wait to see them all hanging together.

Em's stories of the boys are just too precious! I can't wait to catch up with everyone at Thanksgiving.

I've gotta go refill my ice pack.
G'night,
Melissa

ACK! Who is that guy??? Of course, it's Austin. Wait, wait..If he is that old.........how old AM I??????

I don't know how my sister does it! Isn't he a handsome kid? And to think, just moments later, he and his brother were having a fight to the death duel with cornstalks!

He is a goofy boy scout!

And Squared. A-way! (For Race to see!)

I wanted to thank everyone for their prayers. I truly felt "prayed for" on Friday. I think that it is the only thing that got me through that day. Hearing that news was just such a blow. I was in a daze the entire day, like I just couldn't wrap my brain around it. It seems like we are under attack here. So many other things cropping up right now like flames licking at our heels. But I wanted to let you know how much I appreciate your prayers. And, while I can't go into any details, things with Race's situation are improving. I still haven't said anything to the kids because we just aren't sure how things will play out.

Austin had an AWESOME time at scouts. They camped all weekend. It got down to 35 degrees! But, thankfully he was prepared. Race had taught him a long time ago what to bring, and how to pack it. I didn't help him at all. He was so squared away! He and one of his buddies were in charge of lunch and dinner, which I find hysterical! But apparently they did a fine job and got compliments on their cooking!

Savannah and Jack had a great time going to the movies with Aunt Thomasina. They are still talking about it.

Church was wonderful today. I am so happy that we found this church. I truly love it.

I don't have a lot to add here tonight, because I guess I just don't have it in me, ya know? But thanks so much for the kind words and the prayers. It means so much to me. We are doing fine and hanging in there. And like I said, I have not lost my perspective on this. There are worse calls that a wife can get, for sure. But still it is dissapointing. And we are handling it, and with God's grace we will come out on the other side.

G'night,
melissa

Please pray...

I just received some bad news. Due to recent world events,(terrorist bastards), Race will not be home as planned. In fact,being home for Thanksgiving is no longer a certainty. I would be overwhelmed with self-pity,if I were not so overwhelmed with emotions as to what to tell the kids. Just last night, Jack squealed with excitement as he recounted the less-than-double digit days till Race would be home. I just don't know what...or when...I will tell them. While I haven't lost my perspective on this, it is still very hard, because it will dissapoint the kids so, so much.The kids all have big plans this weekend, with Austin going on a Boy Scout camping trip, and Jack and Savannah spending the evening enjoying pizza and a movie with Aunt Thomasina. I guess I will at least wait till the weekend is over. Maybe things will be more deffinite by then. Please pray that we would continue to be strong as a family, that we would just find that resting place in the Lord and also, that arrangements would be expedited, for Race to be able to come home.

Thanks so much for your prayers!
Melissa

So..if you see me on the road...

When your husband is away for long periods of time, there are several jobs which, you, the wife, shall be forced to take over in his absence.
*This past year, I have found myself on the roof of our home more times than I care to recall. There was The Leak Incident. There were several rescues of various toys that “somehow” ended up stranded on the roof. And there was an antenna problem.

*There will always be the numerous car related incidents in which a wife will have to brave The Garage, in order to have said incident fixed, all the while praying that: 1. she won’t get royally ripped off, 2. that said problem is actually FIXED, and 3., that the greasy guy who has been constantly staring into the waiting area at you from behind that glass window….can’t get out of there.

*If you think it’s a woman’s world, my friend, just make a trip to your local Lowe’s Lumber Dept with your purse over your shoulder. You’ll know differently.

*There are also many minor household repairs which a solo wife must learn to deal with on her own. I can honestly say that the inner workings of toilets, faucets, sinks, and showers no longer hold a mystery for me.

But I must tell you that while all of these tasks hold their various challenges, there is no task that I dread so much as hauling our refuse to the dump. DUMP DAY. I have looked high and low for a trash guy. I’d pay my a lot of my husbands hard earned money for that service! None to be had. We must take care of this on our own.

First, the problem was that we had to haul garbage in the back of our suburban. That was bad. Thankfully, my Mom and Dad heard my cry and came to my rescue(again). They gave us the use of one of their spare pick-ups, to haul our garbage. Now, this little truck came to us with the character already well worn in, and with many instructions from my dad about it’s peculiar workings. First of all: Don’t roll down the window (won’t go back up). Don’t put down the tailgate. The speedometer will show about 20 miles slower than the speed that you are actually traveling, so if you go about 85, you will actually be around the speed limit. Oh, and here are the specific starting instructions from my dad: “Mash the pedal all the way to the floor one full time, turn the ignition, and then pump the hell out of the gas pedal, and she’ll fire right up.” With the added caution that you may have to do this a few times to keep it running. (Which, by the way, is EXACTLY how it starts, and your right leg WILL get used to going up and down that fast.)
One look at this little gem, and you KNOW it has to have a name. Further on in my dads instructions, he said….and I will quote him directly, “She’s slow gettin’ goin’ but if you mash the pedal to the floor she’ll run jus’ like a scalded dog!” And, like a voice from heaven, I knew. It was just…..right. Thus, the “Scalded Dog” was born
So, once a week, we load up the Scalded Dog, and head to the dump. The way there was a little scary the first few times, but once I figured out that there was approximately a half-radius worth of “play” in the wheel, it was a piece of cake!(Oh, and the first time, I drove with the blinker on the WHOLE way!) Jackson LOVES this truck, so he is my eager dump helper. I ease her right up close to the dumpsters, between the gargantuan, shiny pick-ups that sit outside of every trailer in this county. And Jack unloads. The ride home feels good. Freer somehow. We can’t get the FM radio to work, but she’s got a really sweet cassette deck.
So, ladies as you hand that bag to your husband to take out, or drag that can down to the curb…..think of me…….. And when you see the garbage man driving by your house this week to whisk away your refuse…… give a little wave and a smile….and think of me…and the “Scalded Dog.”

G'night,
Melissa

Dump Day!

O.K., I didn't blog last night. I totally and completely blame Dy. (grin) Yes, Wonder Woman called my house last night. I always love talking to her! We have been praying for her poor little John today. I hope that he is all better this morning!

Austin worked with Thomasina at the polls, and thoroughly enjoyed himself! This was a great experience for him, and I really appreciate Thom showing him the ropes.

Yesterday was long, and exhausting, and we were on the road for most of it. Although Midol was my best friend yesterday, it was a good day. And a productive day. But man was I glad to drag my weary carcass back into this house!

I will be back later this evening to post a bit more about the goings on around here. But right now, I have to go and get Jack rigged up in his bungee chord harness (see comments in previous post) and everyone else going on lessons. We have Boy Scouts tonight. And there is a camp out this weekend, that I think Austin is going to go on.

Have a great day!
Melissa

Today was pretty good as Monday's go. I'll take it. The morning started out with a beautiful sunrise. And have you ever just had a really "special" devotion time with the Lord. I mean, where you REALLY feel closer to Him than on most other days? Well, that was the morning that I had, so I went into my day feeling blessed.
School progressed along, although there were several interruptions during the day. But, we still managed to plug along. Austin's outlining and essays on British History are really starting to take shape. Today, Savannah (who suffers from a severe mathematics allergy) said, "Mom I REALLY love this math, I am SOOo glad that we switched. Now I UNDERSTAND it!" (Thank-you Math U See ) And Jack? Well amid 30,000 pencil drops, wiggles, squirms and odd sitting positions, and an attention span that is as easily distracted as a young kitten.........well......I think that we actually got some learning done. Jack did school today at the dining room table, on the trampoline, in my room, and on the deck! I sometimes think that if I were to just let this child go, he could live quite happily in the wilderness......a barbarian child fending for himself from mother nature's bounty. He would survive. I know he would.
Savannah had dance class today, so I ran a few errands, and made it back in time to catch the last 20 minutes of class. It is so fun to watch the girls! They are all having the best time!
We got back home at 7:30. I had put dinner in before we left, so I just had to pull it together. We had baked chicken w/ mushroom gravy, baked potatoes, steamed kale, braised carrots, and biscuits. i am hoping that this meal will cancel out the Taco Bell from last night. (sigh)
Tomorrow, Austin will be working the polls with Aunt Thomasina. It's funny, but a 14 yr old, studying logic is just RIPE for being exposed to the world of politics! His new favorite pass time, is to watch the political commercials, and pick out all of the fallacies!
Last night jack was pointing out constellations, and discussing the rotation of the earth, and other things that are curious to him. And all of a sudden he said," Mom, even if someone was gonna give me a trip to the moon right now, I wouldn't go. I would wait right here for Dad. No matter what anyone said I could have, I wouldn't take it, I would just wait right here for Dad. I just can't WAIT for him to get home." We are all counting the days, and even the hours till Race comes home. Words just cannot express how much we miss him.
Tomorrow's election day! Don't forget to Vote!
G'night,
Melissa

Recap....sort of...

Wrote all this on Saturday, but forgot to post:
**It is Saturday morning at 8:45. I am sitting here, at my computer, with my pink travel mug by my side, half-filled with coffee. I have already been into town this morning. I drove to pick up my 3 sleepy-eyed children who mumbled, "We had a great time", in their groggy morning voices. Loaded down with sleeping bags and pillows, they tumbled into the suburban. They were at: NINJA NIGHT. This is sort of like a lock-in at martial arts. They all had a blast, and all three of them came in and promptly climbed into bed and are sleeping quite soundly.

And while I kinda wish that I had an exciting story about the Whoop-it-up good time I had last night, alas, I came home. I watched a show called "Three Wishes" and sat in the middle of my living room with a glass of Chardonnay, eating bruchetta and putting together an etgeire for my bathroom. How's that for excitement? Actually, I thoroughly enjoyed myself! With Race being gone, it is truly a rare moment that I am completely by myself in the house, and I have to admit, it was relaxing! And while I always find myself praying for the kids a lot while they are away from me, that God would protect them, and give them wisdom to handle any situations that they may encounter, I DO covet a little private time once in awhile. So, it was nice. We ALL had a good time.**


We have had a pretty good week, and I should be gearing up for the next one that is upon us. I am having a hard time concentrating on ANYTHING, because it is getting pretty close to Race coming back home. We are all just so excited as we watch what was once an overwhelmingly long ,paper "chain of days", get shorter and shorter!

Oh yes! I got to talk to Dy this week. That is always great for me. She is always so encouraging. You could hear her little guys in the background, and they are really growing up. I was cleaning today and came across a picture from last years Thanksgiving at my mom and dads. Her little guy Jacob is in the picture. My goodness they grow up fast! It is really hard to believe.

I have a prayer request for a very close friend of mine. Her little girl(3) was sent to the E.R. on Friday in what was a very traumatic circumstance. She is doing fine, but please remember the family, as they go through a difficult time.

I got pictures of Lynette's little ones dressed up in the cutest halloween outfits that I think I have ever seen! I'll have to find out if she'll let me post them here. She made the costumes herself: a skunk, and a bug!! Too, too cute!

Oh-Oh! One more thing: I have been using Nuetrogena's microdermabrasion for about 5 days now, and..........WOW! I seriously LOVE it! This is the first thing that has made a big difference in my now..(ahem)..mature skin. Seriously, I give it 2 thumbs way up!

And, after I read the comments on my Victoria's Secret post below...the question begs asking......Am I the ONLY one who wants to know where Jess buys her lingerie??? I mean self respecting christians wouldn't even want their van in the parking lot??? Do tell Jess...(wink).

o.K., this is like a book. I have got to call it a night. And I SOoooo need to update my sidebars!!!

g'night
Melissa

Woah! Where'd Tuesday go?

Seriously, I can't believe that it is already Wednesday! Tuesday was a tough one. As far as home schooling went.....well.....public school and ease of registration was mentioned. I believe that my exact words were, "You do realize that if I take you down there, they HAVE to find a place for you....". O.k. so, not one of my best parenting moments.

The only other thing that really sticks out from Tuesday, was chatting with Thomasina, and the kids using their Jack-o-lantern's for targets. Incidentally, these are good for arrows, BB's as well as rocks fired from a sling shot, (If you're really good, you can make chunks fly off!).

Oh, Oh yes, the other thing from Tuesday: I went into Victoria's Secret. Yeah. (No jokes please about the husband returning home soon, and whatnot) Admitedly, it has been eons since I have bothered to venture into that store, but I can remember when you could go in there, get yerself some good panties and a bra, and those suckers would LAST....and they were pretty! Wehehehellll....times have changed my friends. Victoria's Secret is no longer......... very........well....."secret". This was like a showroom for the very latest in brothel wear. Seriously, some of that stuff....well, I am not even sure how you USE that??? And the sales associate (what do I call her? Panty girl? Panty Specialist? Bra Fitter? Brassiere Tech?) must have been about to get thrown out of her apartment,(though to her credit, she would've looked good) cause man was she using the high pressure sales! And here's a little tip for the V.S. sales gals: If you want me to drop $68 on a BRA, you're gonna have to do more than tell me it's comfortable, and that it uses the very latest new fibers.... For $68 you should say something like: "This will give you back the breasts of your youth". For that I would've ripped it from her hand, knocked her down, and run over her breathlessly to get to the register.

Anyway, thanks to Laney for answering my skin care questions. On Laney's blog, she had the idea for a Botox fund. Which I thought was a stroke of genius! So then I hit her up for the skin care questions that I knew she would know.....she's beautiful! If anyone else would like to add to their comments about microderm abrasion, please do!

Lynette, I am downloading those pictures as we speak. My ultra slow dial-up, might take till next week, but I shall persevere, to see those cute little young uns in their costumes!

And thank-you for all the nice comments about the kids and me! We are counting down the days till race returns.............and it's getting shorter!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (excited squeal)

G'night,
Melissa