the Fam

Here are a few pictures that I took from Mom's birthday. I know that Thomasina got some good ones.
My 2 boys are at the ages where every photo-op is just an opportunity to look mentally deranged. (sigh) When do they out grow that??
And I do apologize to my sister Emily, because her boys who are still young enough to look at the camera and smile sweetly, were unfortunately mesmerized by the camera antics of my guys.(*light bulb coming on over little boys head* "AHhhhhhhh......so THAT'S what you do when someone tries to take your picture!! Yeah, yeah....now THAT'S funny!!") So sorry Em.

We had such a good time that night!

Happy Birthday MOM!!!

Today is my mom's birthday. We all came up to celebrate last night. This is the first time that the whole family has been together in awhile. I find myself appreciating the preciousness of those moments a lot more lately.

We took up a whole banquet room at our favorite french restaurant in town. Mom and dad have been taking us there since we were kids. Everyone had fabulous meals and el vino did flow! It was a wonderful time. Jack and Q sat together at the end of the table with Savannah and Austin. They had a rip-roaring good time! They were entertainment all to themselves. I think Thomasina got some pictures of some of their Motown, synchronized moves at that end of the table! Em and Todd had W and Everett at the oposite end of the table. Em, being forced by Everett into full-on motherhood mode right now, didn't get to eat her dinner until the rest of us were eating dessert. But that baby is just too darned cute, so I really don't think Em minds a bit. (As I well recall, by the third child, you are used to not getting a hot meal.) W was just a doll!! He was so well behaved, and he just says the most adorable things. You could just eat him right up. When I walked in he said, "Aunt Melissa, whatdjooo' do with your yellow hair??" LOL!

Thom was busy snapping pictures and chatting with Austin and Savannah. Race and the Dude sampled a few new ales and played with the kids. Dad ended up giving a teary eyed toast to mom that in any other family would have brought the whole gang to bawling. (Ahem, we tend to make a joke and laugh instead)

Mom loved all of her gifts and I think that she thouroughly enjoyed her evening. Dad remarked more than once how proud he was of his family, and well behaved all of the children were, and how well everyone gets along. (Big Satisfied Sigh) It was a great night.

Happy Birthday Mom!! I'll post pictures as soon as I get back to the house tonight.

Melissa

Happy Presidents Day!!

My whole week is going to be messed up now, because of Presidents Day! LOL! I am Soooooo thankful for the extra day that Race got at home with us, but I will be a day behind for the rest of the week!!

Church was awesome on Sunday, and we got to meet some new folks as well. I am very thankful for the church that we attend. The whole family loves it. It is such a blessing.

Austin went on a ski trip this weekend with the Boy Scouts,and they also worked on a Snow Sport merit badge while they were there. I cannot believe what a good skier this kid has become in such a short time. He really amazes me. He was such a cautious kid when he was little.....and look at him now!

Savannah had a great time at her theatre practice this weekend, and she has a busy few weeks ahead. On thursday, she gets her braces on, and then from Saturday through Friday she has theatre practice every night from 6-8 to get ready for the performance.

Jackson has been having a GREAT time with his dad lately. From all the outdoor stuff, to the video games, to ping-pong, to even teaching dad a little Latin!! Jack has been soaking it all in. I can't tell you how good it feels to see that.

Outside today, the weather was in the 40's, which was a welcome change. My tulips, daffodils, and crocuses are all poking up out of the ground, and one of the crocuses on the sunny side of the house hase even BLOOMED!! (Excited squeal!)

Tomorrow, the whole family...(EVERYONE!) will assemble at Mom and Dads to celebrate Mom's birthday. WE.Are.So.Excited!!! AND.......we are all going out to dinner! WOO-HOO! The whole FAMILY, at our favorite French restaurant.

We have had a great long weekend, and we are looking forward to spending time with the whole family for a bit. Who knows, maybe we'll get pictures, too!!

Enjoy your families!
Melissa

Well......there goes my Mother of the Year award...(dang!)

I have mentioned before that most of the kids parents are all about 10 years+ our senior. They all generally have incredible work ethics and place a very high value in academic pursuits. They love their kids and want what is best for them.
We're more of a..."do your best,-work hard,- have fun- and don't sweat the rest" kinda family. We dearly love these families, and couldn't be happier with the choice of friends that the kids have made. But occasionally it does make for some interesting contrasts!

Last Sunday after church Austin wanted to ask his good friend S. to come out to eat with us. We said "sure". And in the end we actually ended up with 7 boys at the table....and Savannah. (That child will NEVER have trouble getting a date!)

Anyway, Austin was sitting across the table from me and began taking off his jacket. He was unfolding his gigantic,long arms out of the sleeves by tugging at the end of the sleeves, and not pulling his arms away from his body. No, I don't know why.



Me: "Austin, you look retarded doing that."

Now don't go emailin' me saying how cruel this is, he DID in fact look retarded taking his jacket off that way, and we are always joking with each other this way.

So, anyway, I had told him he looked retarded. We were both laughing.When S. exclaimed:

"OH. MY. GOSH!!! MY MOM NEVER CALLS ME RETARDED!!! (gushing and smiling ear-to-ear) THIS IS SUCH A FUN FAMILY!!!!!"

Me: "You look retarded too sometimes, S. Welcome to the family."

Which should have been followed up by, " Ahem..You gonna be mentioning this to your mom??........... Your PHYSICIAN MOM???"

Well, certainly there must be SOMETHING to be said for having a thick skin, right? Surely I am contributing to the development of my children in THAT way!Right??

G'night!!
Melissa

Valentines Day Salvaged

The day started rough. Race has not found his "civilization groove" yet. It is very difficult to switch back and forth from "fight-mode" to "civilian mode". Just like a soldier who comes home from deployment, it takes some time to switch gears, and unfortunately for Race, he has to switch gears while moving. No down time. The pressure mounts. Yesterday morning saw all that stress and anxiety rush to the surface before he left for work.

Race would not be home until late that evening, and since Austin had Scouts, he was going to arrive home to an empty house. The scouts have a ski trip and a service project going on this weekend, and will be working on a merit badge, soooo.....we really couldn't miss. ARGH! This was not looking good. Not good at all.

Enter Thomasina.

Thomasina came and picked up all three kids, dropped Austin at scouts, and took the other two for some fun shopping and hanging out.

In the meantime, I had champagne waiting for Race when he got in(O.K., the champagne was mostly for me, but I had his favorite hard cider waiting for him as well!), the new potatoes and asparagus ,sprinkled with olive oil and salt, were roasting in the oven and the steaks were ready to cook. Sitting on the table was a big stuffed gorilla holding a valentines bag filled with chocolate covered peanuts and malted milk balls (his favorites), and the 3rd season of "Arrested Development" to watch after dinner. I got him. He was touched. We had a wonderful time, and most importantly, Race could RELAX. It was great. And it was needed.

The kids were all back home by 9:30,full of energy, laughter, and stories after having a fun time out with Aunt Thomasina.

I am so blessed to have such a wonderful husband. He inspires me and encourages me with his motivation and drive. I puzzle at what keeps him going, working so hard, sacrificing so much for the things that he believes in. When I watch him, my heart is overwhelmed that God would love me so much.

Thank's SO much Thomasina for making last night possible. Couldn't have done it without you!

HAve a great day!
Melissa

WOW!! Do I have the absolute NICEST group of commenters, OR WHAT?! Thanks y'all! This is of course reason #30,381 to keep a blog. SOooo MUCH cheaper than therapy! LOL! Seriously, thanks so much for all the nice comments. Very much appreciated after the day of the Big Change!

Today was a day of false starts for me. A million nagging little things happened to keep me from being on schedule. Heck, I think I was way behind before my feet ever hit the floor this morning! DO you ever have days like that? Well, my list of accomplishments today includes getting our laptops back online. We seem to have acquired some nasty electrical issues with one of our jacks. But, YAY ME! We're back online! I will spare you the list of other non-essential essentials that were all screaming to be done RIGHT NOW!(You're welcome)

But now, I am sitting in my kitchen with a pot of chili on the stove, a glass of wine on the table, and listening to the labs barking outside to announce the arrival of my sister, Thom. She is joining us for supper.

After lessons,today, the kids built ice forts down at the creek, and then Jack and Austin proceeded to play some sort of elaborate Ancient Greece game, which involved chucking ice and left-over snow at each other. Surprisingly, no one was hurt, and they played for hours, though I am not sure that there was any actual historical accuracy involved.

Though the weather man is predicting ice storms, my thoughts are turning to the outdoors. The flower boxes on the porch are screaming for some pansies to get us through till spring. And I was eyeing a nice light-weight tiller at Lowes today.

And an update from the hair files:
I can't figure out how to style this blasted dark hair! I'll bet I've tried it a dozen ways. It seems that blonde hair is much more forgiving to style. If there are a few stay pieces here and there, it's really pretty unnoticable. But THIS!? It's hard, I tell ya! Still..it's fun. And I think I'll keep it awhile. ANd besides, strangers seem more chatty with me now. wierd.

Tomorrow is busy,busy, busy. We have school lessons, pilates for Savannah, ballet for me, Martial arts for Jack and Austin, and Jiu Jitsu for Austin. Tuesdays are always long. I still have a read aloud from the Rats of Nimh, and a mountain of laundry to get through tonight. However, I also intend to try and place a long-overdue phonecall to Dy tonight. She's good for the soul.

G'night!
Melissa

Work-out Motivation

I've been doing pretty good with my working out lately. I think it's because I actually look forward to the solitude. And lest any of you think I am lifting weights in some classy gym, I am including a photo of my work-out dungeon. You know, it's not all that bad. I put on XM Radio, and for about 45 minutes, I can't really concentrate on anything else but my sets,reps and weights. It's actually therapuetic. Way cheaper than professional help! The only problem is that I lift in the middle of the day, while the kids eat lunch. SO, typically Race isn't here. (Although it has been SOoooooo nice to have him as a work-out partner on the weekends!).
Anyway, the amount of weight that I am lifting now, is getting up there a little bit,(I mean, for ME anyway) and that last set is always a real struggle. And since I am TOTALLY the type of girl who could drop a 25lb dumbbell on her face........well.....you can see the dilema!!

Seriously though, it's working for me, and I feel good about it. When I don't miss, I lift 3 days a week, and do my treadmill and abs 3 days a week. None of it takes more than 45 minutes a day, and because I am working hard at it, it makes me think twice before shoving down a large order of fries!! And I really try hard not to miss.

I have tried other work-outs, but keep returning to The Body Sculpting Bible. For one reason: Results. It is simply the most efficient way to lose fat and gain muscle. And if I am going to devote my time and effort to this, I want the most absolutely efficient program that I can find.

One of the many things that motivates me is Eve. Yes, you read that correctly: Eve. As in the one from the book of Genesis.......In the Bible. O.K. try and follow me down the path of my skewed thoughts:

I often imagine what Eve looked like. The woman God created for Adam. Absolute perfection. And then I think of sin entering the world. All of creation still groans under the weight of sin, which it was never intended to bear. It effects everything. Including our bodies. I think of how different the average woman must look when compared to Eve. How distorted we must look. I imagine it to be like comparing a human with the Hollywood version of an alien."They MIGHT be of the same species...but...I dunno." LOL As Christians, I think that this is part of the mix. It's a part of the balance. Of course we'll never get it right in THIS world, but shouldn't we struggle against it just like we try to do in other areas? And yes, I'd like to be at least a recognizable descendant of Eve. At least I'd like to try. Does that seem totally off base? Is it?

Sometimes thats the the thought process that gets me on.that.treadmill. Or causes me to hike in the woods with the kids instead of sitting inside watching them.

But then sometimes, I just look in the mirror, shriek, and run to workout. (O.K, thats just vanity, and it doesn't sound anywhere near as noble as the whole Eve thing, but there it is.) What motivates you?

Carley Bobby no more!!!

I DID IT!!! What do you think?? Sorry, this is not a really great picture. I actually really like it! The bangs are in an effort to put off Botox for awhile longer! It is so much fun to have people whom I know walk right past me, and not recognize me! It's just SO DIFFERENT!!! I have scared myself a million times walking by a mirror in the house and thinking it's a stranger. LOL!! Savannah LOVES it. The boys like it, but prefer blonde....("because it just doesn't look like you"..) Race?? Well....he likes it...but....I think that the change might be a little much for him!! I catch him looking at me out of the corner of his eye alot! Anyway, I plan to keep it for a good while, but it's totally fun to know that I am a salon visit away from my ultra blonde, again!! Fun, fun!

So, go ahead, weigh in. What do you think??

YYYESSSSS!!!

Reminding you all of my shallow inner self, I have one thing and one thing only to share with you tonight:

Super Bowl night, Savannah and Austin both had different parties to go to. Austin's was with the college/ highschool kids from our church. I walk in to the party, and there are only college kids there so far. I say "hey" to everyone, and speak to the hostess a moment, and then tell Austin what time I'll be back.Then we headed to Savannah's party.

*Jump forward to today.*

Me: Oh my gosh, y'all does my hair look totally stupid pulled back like this? Am I going to embarrass myself at the grocery store? (Yes, this is a true conversation)

Jack: Let me see.....Nope, looks good Mom! And I'm not just saying that.(good boy)

Austin(not even looking): No, it looks good. And besides, that's how you had it the other night when you dropped me off at the party, and they all thought that you were my sister.

Me: WOOOOOOO-HOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Both boys: (blank stare)

YYYYESSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!! (high- vives, high-fives, high fives to you all)

It's the little things that keep me going........
(deep satisfied sigh)

g'night!
Austin's sister

p.s. IT'S SNOWING!!

Hot Buttered Rum

When I was a really little girl, and it would snow at my house, my dad would always get out the tractor and plow our long gravel road. He would also plow the neighbors driveways as well, (there were 2). It was always a really fun and exciting time because my mom was one of those mom's who made snow fun. She would be more excited than we were as she got us all bundled up. Before we came back inside to strip down by the fireplace, she would gather a huge bowlful of snow and bring it inside. When we had our warm, dry clothes on, we would have hot chocolate, and help her make snow-cream.
I was a pretty priveledged kid, growing up. When I was 3, I got a pony for my birthday. I named her "Daisy" after my most-favorite-doll-in-the-whole-wide-world, "OOpsy Daisy".
One particular winter, it snowed over a foot, which is a lot for the south. After my dad finished the plowing, he hitched up "Daisy" to the little pony cart that we had. He and mom had made a batch of Hot Buttered Rum. They poured it into big glass mugs, and we went to deliver some to our neighbor. I can remember being all bundled up and climbing up into the seat of that buggy, and being SO EXCITED!! I had to hold the neighbors rum. I remember the warm butter floating in the top of it.And I am sure that the ride was quite bumpy, and that he probably only ended up with about 1/2 a mug of rum.....and I'm sure that my clothes smelled of spiced rum when I got home, from spilling it.......but I didn't care. What FUN!!
Now. Thinking back about this, I am wondering if dad had already HAD A LOT of rum, before he decided to do this. Because to this day, I just can't figure out what in the hell ever possessed him to do that. I mean, that's really not like him at all!! LOL!!! And it's not like "Daisy" was used to pulling that cart. She wasn't. And it's not like my dad was a "horse person". He wasn't. Yeah-I'm pretty sure that it was the rum. But what a fun time! And what a great memory.
So I am including the recipe that I love for Hot Buttered Rum. It is DEEEeee-licious! Of course you don't need rum OR a pony and cart to make an awsome memory for your kids.......but you get the idea.


Hot Buttered Rum
1 cup brown sugar
1 stick butter
1/4 tsp. nutmeg
1/4 tsp cardamom
1/2 tsp cinnamon
2 cups apple cider
2 cups water
2 cups rum
whipped cream (for garnish)

In a large sauce pan combine all ingredients except rum. Bring to a simmer, and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from the heat and add rum. Pour into glasses and top with whipped cream and a dash of nutmeg.

It'll warm you right up!

G'night!
melissa

Soup!!

For Bridget: Cream of Potato Soup with Sausage

This is my own concoction, so the amounts are not exact, but it's quick and GOOD!!

About 4 lb of russet potatoes, peeled and cubed

Cover with water, and boil until soft.

While potatoes are cooking, cook sausage (whatever type you like, crumbled)in a seperate pan until done.

Drain all but about 1/2 cup of water off of the potatoes.

Return to med-hi heat.

Add milk (1/2 and 1/2, cream, whole milk, 2%, or a mixture...whatever) to cover the potatoes.

Add cooked sausage

Add celery salt, white pepper, and plain salt to taste.

That's it! You can stir in some corn starch mixed with cold milk if you'd like to thicken it a bit. But that's it. It is quick and de-lish! We served it with salad and crusty bread.

Stay warm, y'all!!
Melissa

The kids and I met Race in Washington yesterday. We had such a fun time! We just hung out with Race, saw some sights, and as a bonus, got to go out to eat with a few of the people that Race works with, who were absolutely delightful. It was a quick trip, but a really great time for all of us.

The boys martial arts classes were cancelled today, so we got to take the evening off tonight. The kids are playing with Lego, and watching "Open Season" (utterly hilarious, in case you are wondering!). I am watching the news and waiting for my potatoes to finish cooking so that I can finish my Cream of Potato/Sausage soup.

I am kind of getting back into a groove again with school,extra-curricular activities, and working-out. It feels good to work back into a positive,forward, direction. It's busy....but it's good. I feel like my focus is returning to it's proper place. (Deep, deep, sigh)

Something that has been on my mind lately, is how much I smile.

Sounds like a strange thing to think about, doesn't it?
But hear me out.

You see, I know that I was a very blessed child. I was raised around people who smiled at me a lot. Some of my earliest memories are of my mom's warm smile. My mom smiled a LOT. She still does. And it's still just as beautiful as it always was. Come to think of it the rest of her family does this too. My aunts and uncles tend to light up with a smile easily as well. I think that it means a lot to a child to have someone look into their eyes and smile with approval.Even for no special reason. Even when you don't say a word. I KNOW it does. And what an easy way to help the self esteem of a child!

I think that I'll try to smile more.

Thanks, Mom!

O.K., soups ready. I hope you're hungry! (Can you see me smiling??)

Melissa

Mr. Bad Ass goes to W@shington

That's right. Johnny Bad Ass is in W@shington. There are times when the Johnny Bad Asses of the world MUST go to W@shington. Most in W@shington don't like it when they show up. And most J.B.A.'s would rather be ANYWHERE but there. The sheeple will never understand the J.B.A.'s of the world. And granted, their view is not the norm, and probably somewhat difficult to comprehend.



Thank God for the true Johnny Bad Asses of the world.You can tell who they are, because they get the job done and never require any thanks or recognition.

Thank-you for the prayers for my mom and dad. As it turns out, Dad's trouble can be taken care of WITHOUT major surgery, and with a procedure that he is already familiar with. AND my Mom didn't have to stay in a hotel. They are resting comfortably at home now. Thom had the fires going, the house warm, and soup on the stove when they got home from their long day.We are very, very thankful.

It's been a good day here. School went well, and then the kids helped me to get a little organizing done. Jackson only got hurt about 10 times today, so...ummm..that was good..(weak smile)I got in some cardio and lifting at lunch time. I got dinner started. Savannah went to dance class, and then we came home to homemade vegetable-beef soup for dinner. Add in the good news from my Dad and all in all it was a pretty great day!!

Melissa

Pass another St. Johns Wort, please...

Race had to leave tonight. He will be gone all week. He has to go up north to visit the Head Hauncho's office. I miss him so much already. At least he's staying in a cushy hotel room, instead of bunking out in the desert!I just wasn't really ready to be without him again so soon.(Yes, that's me whining....)

We did have a good day today. Church was amazing. The title of the message was "A Wife's Hope". You can listen to it if you'd like(MP3).I'll put the link below, and they should have it up tonight or tomorrow. Very challenging and very uplifting. We ate lunch out, and then came home to help Race get packed up, and to see him off.

I have to go and do lesson plans for this week before I can get ready for bed. But before I go, I'd like to ask you to say a prayer for my Mom and Dad tomorrow. My Dad has to have an angiogram (sp?) done tomorrow for his heart. He has had 2 of these done before, and we are praying for the very best possible outcome. Also, my Mom might have to stay in a hotel room by herself.....which she WILL NOT like....but is slightly hard headed and won't let my sister come and stay with her;-). So we will be praying for them both tomorrow, and waiting by the phone for the update. Thank-you for your prayers.

"God has no problems, only plans"
-Corrie ten Boom

G'night!
Melissa church sermon link

Happy 13th Birthday Savannah!!

That's right. We now have 2 teenagers in this house. Savannah is 13 today. She and her dad go out on a date every year on her birthday. She really looks forward to this really special time with her dad, and so does he. I hope that she will measure every guy that she ever dates (and how he treats her) against her father. Last night, for the first time, she wore make-up. I actualy got to be the one to put it on her.

---As an aside, both of my sisters just screamed in terror simultaneously at the thought of me puting make-up on Savannah. No doubt they had immediate flash backs to our youth when I was a make-up zealot, and would hold them down and pack the fashionable 80's style make-up on their faces, and then close my door in disgust when they did not thankfully worship at my feet for their new-found beauty. (sigh)--


Relax girls,this wasn't much, just some Bare Minerals, and some sparlkly clear lip gloss. She looked so beautiful. And she was just beaming. Her dad let her open his present to her before they went. He had gotten her a new jacket that she had been wanting very badly. So she got to wear that out to dinner.

Savannah is an amazing girl. She was born an artist, and her gifts in that area leave us in awe.Seriously. She has such a good heart. She is sensitive to others, and always has her eyes wide open. She doesn't miss much, but she also doesn't see the need to make her own opinion always known. (ahem, must be from her father) She is wise beyond her years, but because she is so quiet, it sometimes catches me off guard. I tend to underestimate her.
She has grown into an amazing young woman. She is smart, beautiful, talented, and courageous. She loves the Lord with all her heart. She has a quiet determination about her that I just DARE you to try and bend. She loves her brothers to death, and would do anything for them.

Savannah is an artist, and she sees the world through her artist's eyes. Black and white are only used for "shading" in her world. She notices every beautiful sunset, the colors of every pretty mountain range,the way that the rain drips off the trees, and every other delicate thing in nature that most of us overlook. This past year, she began to seriously try her hand at writing. She is learning to use WORDS to pour out what she sees in her mind. And she is very good at it. She works hard to make her reader VISUALIZE what SHE is seeing. Truly amazing.

This year music has begun to really SPEAK to her, and her ipod is filled with everything from hard rock, to opera, to christian. Acting has become a serious passion for her. She auditioned and got a leading role in "The Emporer's New Clothes" this year, at the Fine Arts Academy. She is still enjoys her dance classes and has several good friends there. She loves the church that we go to, and has her closest friends there.

Next month she will get braces on her teeth.Which she will handle with grace and determination, as always.

Race and I could not be more proud of our daughter, and the young lady that she has become.
We Love you Savannah Rose. Happy Birthday honey.

Game on, Race! I need your help..

Race and I have this game that we play, and I need your help to win. It goes like this:

When we have to enter any public establishment at different times, (for instance if he drops me off at the door and then goes to park the car), we pretend like we don't know each other. Then we act as if we are just meeting one another for the first time. You have to be loud enough to attract attention, or it's not fun. It is HILARIOUS to see the reaction of other people!

The object of the game is to say or do something so outlandish that the other person laughs and goes out of character. We do this A LOT, and Race is getting good. The other night at Panera Bread, the following took place:

We enter at different times, and I am standing waiting in a long line, when he comes up:

Race: HEY!!! I LOVE your Mountain Hardwear jacket!

Me: Thanks, I like yours too

Race starts being loud and animated about a whole lotta nothin', and attracting attention. I am doing my best to make him laugh, but I can't get ANYTHING on him. We clearly have the attention of everyone standing in line. Then:

Race: HEeeeeyyyyy.....I am LOVIN' those pants! They make your butt look really nice........Mind if I touch that??

I LOST.

We started this little game sometime last year, and it always cracks me up because either can start it and it is always spontaneous. But he has clearly upped the competition. How can I win? What would you do? Ideas anyone? I need to be ready the next time we play. Race doesn't like to lose......so..this could get dangerous.

Game on!
Melissa

School update

I haven't written anything about the kids schooling in a long time, so I thought that I would put in a little update. It's encouraging for me to go back and read through their progress in my old posts. Sometimes it feels like I am too close to see the larger picture, so that really helps me.

On the school front: Savannah's writing continues to be amazing, and the Lightening Lit program seems to really fit the bill for her. She would love to forget about math and science altogether, and Jack thinks that it is incredibly cruel that I don't allow her to "just study about animals" in science. But, she's a really good egg, and she never complains.Her work is always neat, and done on time. I try to give her as much lit-based learning as I can. She learns so well this way.

Austin is really doing well with his new and increased work load. In Algebra we have all (Myself, Race, and Austin) been slogging through slope-intercept equations. Only 5 more chapters of these to go....(Oh.MY.WORD) His writing has shown real improvement this year, and he has actually stopped dreading each and every writing assignment! Science? Well, what can I say? We LOVE this Physical science!!! AND this year he is doing the labs and writing up the lab notes all on his own, so I am really thrilled about that. And best of all...(drum roll, please)...he is learning organization!!!(hallelujah chorus)

Jack is finally settling in too.(READ:I no longer have to tie him in his chair) His math and science is going really well, and he loves to work way ahead in both of them. Language Arts is finally improving, but he has definitely been slower in this area. He is becoming much more independent, and and confident, and that is really nice to see. One surprising thing, is that his cursive penmanship is REALLY beautiful. I am AMAZED by this, because his printing has always been just horrible. And we have taken the Latin plunge with him, as well, and he really likes that.

I'll touch on their History lessons another time. They are all doing something different, so it'll take awhile to explain!

I wish that I could say we were all in our groove again, but mostly we're all still walking around bumping into one another. It feels like we spend a lot of time spinning our wheels each day, as a family,while we try to figure out how to work "all together" again. We're having fun.....we're just not accomplishing a whole heck of a lot! But it's all good. And we all know the drill. We are so incredibly thankful to have Race back home with us.

G'night!
Melissa

Last Isr@el Picture post! IT.IS.FINISHED.

O.K, now for your viewing pleasure,as the finale', I give you some random, dorky shots from our trip to.
This land and it's people have a very special place in our hearts. We were so blessed by our time there.

Isr@el post: #1,032

All of these pictures are from the top of Mt.Masada and then down at the Dead Sea.

We all made the grueling climb up the side of Mt. Masada, to Herod's unbelievably preserved fortress. In my own opinion, it was Herod's absolute paranoia that ensured his survival for so long. There is/was no easy route up to the top of this mountain!I was really proud of the kids for making the climb. Austin read Eusebius last year, so he had quite a bit more personal info on Herod. Of particular intrest to him, was his long and agonizing death. He was apparently parasite-ridden, and ...well...Eusebius doesn't really mince words. The palace was amazing, and a real testament to Herod's wealth as well as his Roman "influence". The hot baths, steam rooms etc, are all still in place.

Behind the pictures of the three kids, you can see the Dead Sea, far below. LAter the afternoon, as you can see, they took a dip. The water has so much salt in it that it is actually 26% solid. You can see Austin holding up his hand s and feet............and floating! He said that you could actually feel the pressure of the water pressing in on you. It holds you up and you cannot sink. Jack is holding up one of the salt balls that cover the bottom of the Dead Sea, (making it a bit difficult to walk on). This is the lowest point on the earth. What a great experience for the kids!!

We're back!

Corrected: It appears that my posting capabilities are a little rusty! I fixed the cabin link below. It should work now!




You guys, we had the most wonderful time!!
We have been camping and hiking in this particular area since we were in college, and it is still one of our most favorite places to go. I don't care what season that you head into the Blue Ridge, it never dissapoints. It is always so quiet, and secluded. It was, of course, too cold to camp, so we stayed in our favorite cabin. You can read more about the cabin hereThe Cabin In 3 days we spent time in Lexington, Staunton, Charlottesville, and Fredericksburg. We pretty much saw most of central VA!! One evening we hiked up to Spy Rock. It is so named, because it was a lookout for confederate soldiers during the war. The climb is hard and steep, and it crosses the Appalachian trail at one point. When we got to the top, we had to do some real climbing....or bouldering...or whatever you call it! WOW!! It was amazing! ANd my tip to you, if you ever do this, is.........DON'T....LOOK...DOWN! Just keep your eyes on your husband who is climbing handily, with ease ahead of you.....and try to do what he does. Anyway, after reaching the top, it was SO WORTH IT. It was a gorgeous 360o view of the Blue Ridge. The tops of the mountains are all at your level. It was so beautiful, and we made it just in time to watch the sun go down. Just breathtaking. We had all of our cold weather gear on, so we were feeling o.k.,(You can see in the picture that I had shed my down jacket at the top....for about 5 minutes!) but after we stopped at the top the temp started dropping super fast, along with the sun. Nothing but ice up there, and the water in my water bottle had already started to ice up! It was easily in the teens when we started back down, and we had our headlamps on long before reaching the bottom. In that area of the state, you are so far from any major city, that when it gets dark, it REALLY GET'S DARK, and the stars seem unbelievably bright. And without the stars, you can barely see your hand in front of your face. We just had a wonderful time. A crackling fire in the woodstove, inside a 170 year old log cabin, no phone, no tv.......just heavenly!
Race and Austin are camping tonight with the Boy Scouts. This is part of the cold weather camping training for the boys. I guess if you don't get hypothermia.....you done good! LOL! It is supposed to be 22o here tonight. My guys are fine, but I hope that some of the other boys have enough warm gear. I am sure that they will all work it out and share. I guess it's all part of the learning experience!!

About those other pictures...

I haven't forgotten, we are just on the road right now.

We are at mom and dads, and then Race and I are off to spend a little time(ALONE- can you believe it???) in the mountains doing some hiking. We are really looking forward to it,and I can hardly wait to spend a little time with my husband again. When you are away from one another so much, it feels really strange when you get back together, because you have both changed. Not in a bad way at all,but you are not the same people that you were when you last saw one another, just because of normal...(or maybe not-so-normal) life experiences that happen while you are apart.

In a "normal" (LOL) marriage, you grow and change together, experiencing things daily, and discussing them, blah,blah, blah...But in our situation, it's like we have to play catch-up. It's always fun, but you really do have to make time, and make it a priority. And I am SO looking forward to getting these few days!

The kids are thrilled to be able to grab a few days at mam-maw and pap-paws house, so I can relax and have fun knowing that they are having fun, too. My mom and dad are the best.

So, anyway, I don't think we'll have any wireless connection for the laptop up where we are going,(nor any cell coverage) so the pictures will have to wait a little longer, but they're coming! But just so you know, it's for a good reason!!

See you soon!
Melissa

O.K., I have tried to post pictures 5 times tonight, and it's a no-go. I'll try again tomorrow. Ugh! So frustrating!!! grrrrr..

The Obligatory Camel Pictures

Are y'all getting tired of these yet??

Tonight, for your viewing pleasure, I give you some of our camel riding pictures. We were on our way down to the Dead Sea. It was just before this outing, that Savannah looked out the window, and pointed to a boy riding a burro out in these mountains. Jack said, "Hey....look at that! A boy......riding a wild ass!" (Long pregnant pause as the words "wild ass" just sort of hung in air of the car.) Sensing that there is just SOMETHING about that word...he uses it often now. We have to pass several fields every day, and each time he will say something like," Hey, I think I saw an ass", or "There were a couple of asses out there". Yesterday, able to stand it no more, Savannah sighed and uttered quietly, "Jack couldn't you just say"donkey"? Which of course brought on an onslaught of repeating the word. "What's wrong with "ass'? It just means a donkey....you can say "ass"...what's wrong with "ass"? (sigh) But now when things get quiet between Race and I, inevitably one of us will say, "Look! A boy on a wild ass!"

Part 3

We went to a small village (ack! can't remember the name!) and had lunch at an awesome outdoor cafe'. It was here that Jack and Savannah decided to play with a few cats that were scurrying around, while we were waiting for our food, (cats are everywhere in Isr@el). They decided to make up names for them. Much to the horror and surprise of his mother, Jack proudly announced that the name of his favorite cat was "Crappy". Yes, that's right......"Crappy Cat".It was then that we had to explain, (over the roaring laughter from his siblings), what the word "crap" meant. Of course this just made it funnier, and the name "Crappy Cat" stuck.(ugh)

Now, besides being the home of "Crappy Cat", this village is also the Church of the Visitation. This is on the site of Elizabeth and Zecheriah's home. This is also where Mary came and met Elizabeth, after learning that she was carrying the Son of God. This is a convent, and was absolutely beautiful, with it's gardens and architecture, and art work.

I still have about 3 more posts on the trip, so I'll try to keep it up. Meanwhile, we are all back to school, and Race and I have gotten to know one another again. It is so great to have him home again! He never ceases to amaze me, and after 16 years I am still discovering new things about him. I realized this week, that 2006 was probably the hardest year of my life....but I love my life.I love my husband. I love my family. And I wouldn't trade the things that I've learned this year for anything.I am incredibly grateful to God for the life that I feel so privileged to live.

G'night,
Melissa

Part 2

This is a seemingly small boy in front of the VERY LARGE Church of the HOly Seplechure. This was emotionally over-powering to me. This church encases the site of Christ's tomb. Golgotha is here. To walk inside the tomb of Christ and see the empty stone slab, beyond words.

Sorry about the awful "blank-faced Race" (sigh....). Anyway, the church itself is actually Crusader-built, and the architechture reminded us very much of some of the things that we saw in London last year. Truly amazing. The church feels stony cold. And one cannot help being struck by the volatility of the area. As we arrived in the plaza, we could hear the m^slim call to prayer, coming loudly from the m0sque a few streets over, and at the same time, to see the hassidic J@ws rushing by on their way to the Western Wall for prayers. Very, very moving.

The last one is the kids standing in front of Christ's tomb. I will post again tomorrow. Everyone have a wonderful Sunday.

Isr@el with the Am@zing Race

The kids and I got to meet Race in Isr@el! I have been so late inposting about this, but it's been a bit of a whirlwind around here. Race had to go back to work, and couldn't come back with us. But he is home safe and sound now, and we are all learning how to live together again. Thank-you so much for all the kind wishes and prayers for safety. It will take me a few posts to tell about our trip.

The flight over was memorable. I was pretty much a nervous wreck at the thought of navigating myself, 3 kids, and all of our luggage from my home and through the airport, etc. Typically I cannot find my way out of a paper bag without proper directions, and there were a lot of "unkowns" for me on Race's end of the trip, and some sticky security issues. We made it through everything in the airport o.k, aside from getting the thorough shake-down and having Jack's toothpaste cofiscated for being too big. When flying to Isr@el, you must go through a second security screening,(Isr@els' before boarding the plane. In our experience, this one is much less rude, and much more efficient and effective. As it turns out, the plane was full. Not one empty seat. And there were 4 people on that plane who were NOT orthodox J@ws. Guess who they were???? Suffice it to say, we were fortunate enough to sit beside a super-nice lady, who was also orthodox. She was so sweet to answer our questions, and to explain so much of what we were seeing. I have NEVER experienced anything like that flight! Everyone was up moving around and talking.....for 10 hours. There was also an odd tension the whole time, that I really couldn't place. The men got up to pray twice during the flight. It was kind of strange to see all the men begin getting out of their seats, reaching into the overhead bins, putting on their prayer shawls, etc., and then all heading to the back of the plane!! But the lady beside us explained everything, and we really ended up learning a lot before we ever even got off the plane! Admitidly, I was terrified that Jack would innocently blurt out something offensive, but thankfully, he was tired.
When we arrived Race had arranged with work for us to get VIP treatment at our arrival. So someone was there to meet us and walk us straight through, instead of having to stand in line and wait. That was so cool! Everyone was wondering who we were to get such treatment!
When we got out Race was there to meet us. He had a beautiful bouqet of roses and a big latte'.(Awwwwwwwwwww....!) The roses were gorgeous, and the latte' was really NEEDED!!! It was so awesome to see him again.

One of the first things that we did, was to walk the wall of the Old City of Jerusal@m. The walls were actually built by Saladin.


The picture above is Jack running ahead, and scaring his poor mother to death. The picture to the right is, of course at the Western Wall. This is the only thing left of the 2nd Temple, and is the holiest site for the Jewish people. I cannot tell you what a learning experience this all was for me. The people were warm and welcoming, and we made many friends(thank-you, Race) from many different religious and cultural backgrounds.

I will post more pictures and descriptions later. Race is watching the Colts and the Chiefs play, and I need to go and fix him some wings....(No, they're not from H@@ters!!LOL!) Thank-you for checking in, I'll post more tonight, I promise!

Melissa

We're back......sort of

The kids and I have returned safe and sound. We got in just in time for Christmas, and enjoyed a wonderful time with my family. There is nothing quite like ones own gracious and welcoming family, to make weary, jet-lagged travelers feel at home again. As soon as Race returns home, I will post all of the details of our trip, along with pictures.
For everyone who normally gets Christmas cards from us..........they went in the mail box today!!!
G'night!
Melissa

Just checking in...

We are having an amazing time, and I am starting to get my bearings in this city. I have been able to take the kids around by myself some now. I have realized that when I come into unfamiliar surroundings, that's how I do it: I start SMALL, and gradually widen my comfort zone as I go! We are al really thankful for good shoes!

We have made a lot of friends here, as everyone has been incredibly warm and welcoming and they have been SO helpful with the language barrier, too.

The kids are enjoying themselves completely. Everything from the sights, to the food, right down to the Russian cleaning lady who cleans their room every day. She doesn't speak a word of English, but WOW, she is wonderful. The hotel staff has really gone out of their way to make the kids feel right at home.

G'night
Melissa

Another day

We had a great day today, but jetlag is still hanging on with a vengence. I don't know when I am supposed to eat and when I am suppposed to sleep.
The kids have been handling everything so well. They really are very adaptable, and Savannah has already said that she thinks that she could live here.(!) That surprises me so much, because I am such a creature of my own familiar surroundings.But I love it that they are getting the opportunity to shrink their own world a bit. This was exactly the kind of thing that Race and I had hoped to be able to do for them. It really feels good. The kids have loved soaking in the culture and sight-seeing. They are also enjoying all of the new foods that they have been able to try. Even Austin, who rarely vocalizes any outward emotion, has remarked several times about how "awesome" this all is. And of course, as usual, Jack just jumps right in with both feet.
Another great day.

G'night....er..morning...whatever,
Melissa

Merry Christmas to US!

The kids and I have spent several days traveling in order to meet up with Race overseas. We are so excited to be in a new place, and discovering brand new things!! And we are so excited to be with Race again. I am trying to keep a record with all of our pictures, so that I can post some of them on my blog when we return. This was the best Christmas gift that we could get, and I am so thankful that we have been given this amazing opportunity. I can't spread the details around, just yet, but when I return, I'll write all about it.
The only one of us whom jet lag seemed to have absolutely no effect on is Jack. He is an absolute ball of energy, and approaches everything head-on......which is great.....but it makes his mother a nervous wreck!!
I am continually amazed at the way in which Race adapts himself to any surrounding. My spider senses go into almost paralyzing over-drive, and he just jumps right in with the locals, makes friends, learns the language, and knows his way around so quickly. (hmmm...seems the apple doesn't fall far from the tree...see above paragraph.)It really is impressive. I am trying..........but it definitely doesn't come easy for me! Today I actually did take the kids by myself to the market area, and then later for a lunch in the park and some shopping. Yay me! ANd I didn't get lost, or lose anyone!

Talk to you soon,
Melissa

1st Degree Brown Belt!

  

We are so proud...

Race and I are so proud of Austin tonight. He passed his test for advancement to Brown Belt. After an HOUR of boxing/fighting/kicking drills, he had to settle in for his physical fitness test. With everyone else watching, he had to complete 7o push-ups in 3 minutes. Not butt-in-the-air push-ups, but the kind that would make any Marine proud. He did it. And he made the first 60 look easy. Then he got a one minute break, and went to the bag. He had to complete 100 kicks, and 80 knees, and finish out the round with boxing,....in 3 minutes. His brother and sister were cheering him on as he began to tire. He did AWESOME! He is one tired, but happy kid.

We are so proud of his accomplishment! I just kept watching him and thinking, "Wow. You did this all by yourself.It's all you."

Race called to talk to him and congratulate him tonight at what would be around 3 AM on his time.

We love you Austin, and we are so proud of all your hard work and your great attitude. Your dediction never ceases to amaze us.

Good stuff.
G'night
Melissa

Farm Story-(gross, but true)

O.k, so, I grew up on a farm and all. I have realized that growing up this way, makes for an awful lot of interesting stories. Well, they're interesting to me.....and to my kids, at least. race doesn't care for this particular story, so much.

When I was but a wee sprite, I wanted to be a veterinarian. Not a small pooch/cat vet, but a large-animal farm veterinarian. I'd had my appetite wet by none other than James Herriott, and well.....I WAS on a farm.......it just progressed from there.

I jumped at any opportunity to learn more about medical and surgical procedures involving animals. Dad, at the time had the largest and most state-of-the-art hog facility in our state. Complete with a records office, a feed/grain room, a farrowing room, and weaning rooms. There was even a shoot to bathe the sows in when they came in from the outside to deliver their babies.

It was in this facility that I learned how to castrate pigs. Yep, that's right. My dad taught his oldest daughter how to castrate pigs. I can remember it all very plainly. And I enjoyed it. Not the actual TAKING of the pig nuts(sorry), but of my new-gained knowledge of the surgical procedure. It was great. I felt so grown-up....so useful. Just me and my dad, working together.....

One crisp day, however will NOT be forgotten. There I was, at my post with my surgical blade in hand, waiting for the nexr pig to be deposited within my reach, when our neighbor from up the road showed up. He and my dad exchanged the usual plesantries, and then something strange occured. Our neighbor, our NEAREST neighbor...our neighbor who liked to dress in shiny,open-front shirts and gold chains...... produced a plastic bag from his coat pocket...and as I looked on in bewilderment,he fished about in the large bucket of discarded pig nuts, and removed several dozen and placed them in his bag. He thanked my dad, and went on his way.

We went back to castrating, and after a few minutes I asked my dad in a puzzled voice, "What is he gonna do with those, dad??" Dad chuckled kinda low and said "Weeellllll.........he's gonna eat em'.Call's em' mountain oysters..Jus' fries em' up(chuckle, chuckle) Damn, crazy, (mumble,mumble).

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I was changed. And THAT was sick. From then on, when it would snow, and I would go with dad to deliver hot-buttered rum to the neighbors......I NEVER went into his house.Never.

Well, as you know, the whole vet thing never worked out. For one thing it all back-fired in highschool. My best friend J used to tell about my castrating experiences as a party joke, which she found hysterical. (In case you're interested, this WILL NOT help you get a date). And at some point(probably the point at which the amount of schooling required to BE a vet was learned) shopping, make-up and clothes moved front and center of my little world...........and I went to college and majored in fashion-marketing.

Mountain Oysters...... .....Ain't no way.
G'night,
melissa

Thanksgiving recap

We had another amazing Thanksgiving! Thanks to Mom and Dad. Em said it on her blog, and I would just repeat that they are an amazing team. You can't really help in the kitchen, because you'd be in the way. They have worked together for so long,(both commercially and domestically) that they don't even need to speak...they just "know" what each other is doing and what needs to be done. And I don't know if you've ever hosted 20 people+ for Thanksgiving dinner......... Anyway, they never cease to amaze me. What a team. And the dessert table DID NOT dissapoint! The entire buffet table was COVERED with pumpkin,blueberry-cream,sweet-potato,pecan, and coconut-cream pies, as well as Savannah's pumpkin cheesecake, and Thomasina's spice cake and scones.
The Dude asked the blessing this year, and it was one of the most heartfelt that I have ever heard. He asked a special blessing for Race, and it just meant so much to the kids and I. It really did.
It was great to see everyone. My Aunt D. was looking GREAT since her retirement,(keep up the good work!) and I got to tell to Aunt J. that my flower garden was chock-full of beautiful transplants from her amazing garden, and that I would TRY to send her a picture in the spring when things are in full bloom.y
As always, it was all wonderful.
The pictures are being held captive by theprofessional photographer of the family, and hopefully they will be up soon. I happen to know for a fact that she got back home today........and seeing as how she is also holding my turkey-leftovers as well......I will be seeing her very soon!!
Today was a day of sitting at the dentist office...for a...LONG...time. But I am thankful for the great dentist that we have..(and thankful that today's visit is over). While we were out, we went by Old Navy and got some pants for our ever-growing 15 yr old. What size??? 32x34!! A 31x34 would be perfect, but ya just can't get that there. And yes.....I look up to him.
Oh-and BTW. Just to prove that I TOTALLY know what I am talking about on most girly-girl make-up issues.......Em(Miss I hate all make-up-and-can't-be-bothered-with-learning-to-apply-it), bought the Bare Minerals..........and she LOVES IT!!!! (sigh)....I rest my case.

G'night,
Melissa

Silver Lining

Well, it seems every cloud DOES have a silver lining. We may get to see Race before the holidays are over after all! (Excited squeal!)

Tomorrow will be filled with schooling and baking. The kids and I are bringing several pecan pies and a pumpkin cheesecake to Thanksgiving dinner on Thursday. I am going to "try" to make whole wheat rolls as well.

I hope that Thom brings her camera, because Thanksgiving at mom and dads is always an event. There are always about 20 people there. Some friends, some family, and occasionally, someone we've never even met till RIGHT THEN. They seat everyone the best that they can, and we always bring in extra tables and chairs. There is almost ALWAYS some sort of fresh venison or wild turkey offered up among farm raised birds (yes, it takes more than one to feed everyone!). Everyone brings a little something to add to the feast. Em, Thom and I always bring desserts. I always love looking at the dessert table, just absolutely BURDENED down with things to try. I can hardly wait, and the kids are just overflowing with excitement! Mam-maw and Pap-paw just ooze the meaning of southern hospitality, and they truly believe, "the more the merrier".

This year the thing that sticks out most in my mind ,in regard to thankfulness, is that I am thankful to God for allowing me to experience the unbelievable love that I have for Race. Seriously, THE EXPERIENCE of those feelings for another human being is just such a blessing. I know that in some small, almost unrecognizable way, it represents the way that Christ loves me.
Being apart from Race really punctuates that for me, and being a truly selfish person by nature, I am overwhelmed that God would allow me such feelings for another person on this planet.

We love you Race! We miss you! Be careful!
G'night,
melissa

Church was awesome today. I came in dragging, and feeling really down, and I left feeling grateful and blessed.
The inlaws (F&A) took us to lunch today. Jack has really been enjoying spending some quality time with someone else besides me. He has enjoyed having them visit so much.
After church, Austin and Savannah changed into their work-duds, and went with the youth group to rake leaves for the rest of the day. There were 2 families who were really in need this year,(one woman recently lost her husband in the past few weeks) and I thought that this was such a nice and practical way of doing something for them. The kids all had a good time and felt good about helping out.

Also this weekend, the boys participated in a Kick-a-thon for charity. They took pledges, per kick, and did as many kicks as they could in 3 minutes.Jack did 198, and Austin did 230. Together they raised about $300. for a really good cause.

After purchasing a new adapter card, my wireless network is now complete. YAY!

I have a long week ahead. We will be schooling until Thursday, and then it's off to my mom and dads. The approaching holidays are making me feel really run down and weepy, because it's hard to stop thinking about just how much we are going to be missing Race for the rest of the year.

I know that a lot of military wives are in the same boat, and probably they have been away from their husbands even longer. But somehow, that doesn't make my situation any easier to bear at the moment. I'm sure that I'll eventually gain a fresh perspective.

G'night,
Melissa

The first time that I was ever in London, was with my sister, and my best friend J. I remember joking around and using the word "bloody". You know, in my fake British accent, (which I am sure is just as annoying as when a Brit or a yankee (sorry,product of my upbringing) tries to do a southern accent..but, you know..whatever). The 3 of us were dragging our wheeled suitcases from the Tube, when I said something like, "It's a bloody, long walk to the stop-over,eh?" My friend J,(who was our researched expert on all-things-British for this trip), quickly leaned over and in a hushed tone said, "Don't say the word 'bloody', it's like the F-word, over here". I shrank back, shocked. Really? How awful? the F-word? I don't say the F-word. What would my mother say?

I knew not to use the word"fanny", or "napkin" in the context that I was used to, but...now THIS? I made a mental note not to use the word "bloody" again while I was there.

Later on the trip, it dawned on me. I remember thinking, "Heyyyyyyyy.....waaaaaaaaaaait.....a.. minute. The F-word is bad, BECAUSE it's the F-word! She doesn't know what in the bloody hell she's talkin' about.

Ahhhhhhh......London. I miss it.......I do.

In need of strong Retail Therapy

(Thanks to Bridget's mom for the "retail therapy" thought. So, just shoot me. OR, just put a bullet through this computer instead. As a matter of fact, I am surprised that I haven't done that myself yet. I am now the proud owner of a working DSL modem, a working wireless router, and a laptop that can't connect to it. Grrrrrrr..... I am thinking that it is my wireless PC card, but the diagnostic says it's working properly. I know that the problem is with the laptop, because my in-laws arrived today, and Race's mom has a lovely new laptop, and within seconds, we had it logged on. So frustrating.

*Oh, and thanks to The Dude for talking me through some of my computer issues this morning!*

Anyway. I am feeling the need to buy some stuff.(sigh)

I've been trying to help Race's mom get to know her new computer, and learn about the WWWeb.

I have talked to Race today, and have already had 2 people ask if he was involved in any of the stuff going on in the news today. Blech.

Oh, well. That's about it today. We are happy to be able to spend a little time with Race's mom, and Frank. Unfortunately, they won't be able to spend Thanksgiving with us, as they have more family to visit farther south.

Have a great weekend!
Melissa

I got nothin?

Wow. Lot's of people read my last post, but NO ONE commented. I began to get the distinct impression that maybe it didn't come across correctly.....that maybe everyone was sadly shaking their heads and saying,"Tsk,tsk....that poor girl.. she's so blind..). So I went back and re-read it. The only thing that I could clarify is where I said Race was "whooping it up with his team in his few off-hours". I meant when he is away. When he is gone, there isn't much "off-time" for him, so it isn't very often that the have the chance to kick back. And well....that's about it.
(Shrug) Just our warped sense of humor, I guess.

(Sheepishly)Moving on...

Today just plain stunk. There was trash. And lots of it. And it was wet.The
The Scalded Dog has a hole in the gas tank. And while I've HEARD that you can plug it with a washer and a nut..... and well...I'm just not going to go there. I'm just not. That was the begining of my day. And it sort of went downhill from there.

At one point today, I was putting the cover back on Race's jeep, after cleaning all the leaves, water, and goop from off of the tarp that had covered it,(actually the rain had weighted down the tarp, and the jeep had a lovely swimming area in the back where the seat should be). I heard myself telling the boys, "You see boys, this is a perfect example of why you should take care of your things and not leave things half-done. Because I'll tell you--you're not going to find a wife like your father did to do it for you. I don't want you boys to get the wrong impression." (Heh-heh, Not one of my better parenting moments).
I won't rehash the rest of the day here, so you can all thank me later. LOL

But there were bright points. I am now the proud owner of DSL service. YAY! It took forever to download and install, but, it's on!! WOO-HOO!
Also, we went to Boy Scouts tonight, and I got to talk with some of the other moms and dads.(Adult communication! Yeeessssssssssss!)
I talked to both sisters,my mom and Race today. So, all in all, that's probably what kept me from curling up into the fetal position and crying in the corner today! And I am really thankful for friends and family who unknowingly talk me down off that ledge, just by being there.
O.k. lastly. The absolute FUNNIEST thing that I heard today (no joke): A husband had a vasectomy, and the doctor needs to check the semen for a few months after the procedure. The dutiful wife, (who wants to be SURE that the procedure was successful), takes specimin into the crowded eurology lab. She walks through the crowded room with the contents stashed in her handbag. She hands the cup to the nurse behind the desk, very discreetly. The nurse yanks it from her hand, holds it up to the light, and yells, "What's THIS?" Barely audible, the wife says.."I-It's from my husband." "WHAT?-What did you say??!" "It's from my husband....it's his specimin". The nurse is still holding the cup up to the light and rolling it around. She yells, "Well, what KIND of specimin is IT?" At this point the woman has been embarassed and frustrated beyond belief, and she snaps back, "Isn't this a eurology lab?! How many different kinds of specimins do you get each day?! It's a jar of MAN RELISH! WHAT THE HELL DO YOU THINK IT IS??" On her way out the door, the nurse says, "Well, I just hope it ain't more than 2 hours old." The wife has decided not to go back.
Isn't that hilarious? Man relish? BWAHAHAHA!!!!

g'night!
Melissa

Johnny Bad Ass Email

O.K. So you guys know that Race is away for most of the year, right? Well, while Mr. Johnny Bad Ass is off to all parts of the world unknown to me, and is whoopin' it up with his team on his few off hours.....A wife's gotta get creative.
A very good navy seal friend of ours gave me some good advice, one time when I was lamenting to him about Race's position, and how difficult it is for me to understand. He said, " Well, Melissa, it's your job to make him forget all that as quickly as possible." Good advice.Now, all that's pretty easy to do when he comes home, it's more difficult while he's away. While Race is gone,I send all sorts of crazy emails to him, to make him smile, and to show him how much I love him.
While most of them are unfit to put here, I thought that THIS one was pretty funny:




Once upon a time there was a princess named Melissa. Her extravagant beauty was known throughout all the kingdoms.
One day she met a strong, brave and handsome knight. His name was Sir Race. He was instantly mesmerized by Princess Melissa's charm,wit and beauty. She made all the wenches in the other kingdoms seem ugly and dumb in comparison. He must have her hand in marriage.
Now, the princess knew that being the wife of a brave knight would be a very different life than what she was used to at her father's castle. But she had fallen deeply in love, and knew that her life would never be complete without him. The princess' head could not be turned by all of the many other suitors who tried to woo her.
As time went on, the brave knight traveled the world and had many exciting adventures. He fought evil everywhere he went.
Meanwhile, the princess dutifully stayed home and raised their 3 beautiful children and cared for their vast castle and grounds all by herself. The poor princess spent many lonely nights at home. She worried about her brave knight, and she prayed for him every day. She worried that he would be injured in a duel. She worried that he and the other knights might partake of too much ale. She worried that he would not be able to resist the many wenches who would be throwing themselves at his feet.
But deep in her heart she knew that he would always be faithful. And the brave knight knew, that should he ever find pleasure in any wench, the princess would release the dragons who would hunt him down and pick the flesh from his bones.
So, the princess dedicated herself to his happiness, wether near or far. She used her wit and charm to amuse him, and she set out to make herself even more beautiful for him.(GASP!)
The brave knight loved her, and he longed to give her all that her heart desired.
Princess Melissa and Sir Race went on to share many adventures together, and their love was known throughout all the kingdoms.They grew old together, and would sit at the castle and watch their many grandchildren play in the vast gardens.
And they lived happily ever after.



At the end,I sent a picture. I used a little twist from Laney's take on "The End", for those that remember that post! He thought it was funny!

G'night!
Melissa

Mindless Make-up Drivel

O.K. so I tried to start some sort of meaningful dialogue about make-up. Perhaps the word "meaningful" is a little strong.
Now, Kathy Jo was kind enough to reply to my excited post asking if anyone was using Bare Escentuals make-up, by saying "I do. Sometimes. When I actually bother with make-up. :) But I do have some. It's upstairs. In a drawer somewhere. :D "

Well, thank-you Kathy Jo.And while this was not quite the exhilerating endorsement that I was looking for, I DO appreciate it. LOL!

No matter. I am a make-up kind of gal.I have always loved it. As a teen I would scour the magazines and try to copy EXACTLY what I saw there. I would spend my hard earned money on make-up and nail polish. And I subjected my younger sisters to thousands of "make-over's". (They finally began to refused after a few minor, hickey-looking burns caused by the slip of a curling iron).
The best job I ever had was behind the make-up counter of a major dept. store.
And then later I got hired at a private boutique, where I did minor facials and make-overs. (That was not as fun, though, because you had to get used to touching a stranger's "problem skin", which sometimes grossed me out).

I am of the variety that rarely allows the CAT to see me without make-up. I see it as sort of a service to others. Not quite a ministry mind you....but a service all the same.
My goal in applying make-up, is to look like I am not wearing any. To create an astonishing, youthful glow, with beautiful long lashes, and presently bare-looking, glossy lips. (snort!TMI, I know)

Thanks to my mom, enter: www.bareescentuals.com I had severe doubts about a powder-like substance being able to do what I like. I bought mine from www.sephora.com , but the website tells all about it. I LOVE this stuff. It isn't like anything I've ever tried. It really looks beautiful on your skin. It covers imperfections..(you know..if you have any), and it is supposedly GOOD for your skin.
Jess asked if it was expensive. Not really, if you consider how long it lasts. You really use just a small bit.
So. There you have it. My bit of advice to the sister-hood, regarding make-up. You can all thank me later. (snicker)
G'night!
Melissa

thoughts of courtship...

Last night the kids and I were all discussing boyfriends and girlfriends. We started with Austin. We all decided that he liked L. She is a smart, sweet, pretty athletic girl who goes to our church. There are only a few girls at the church that are his age. His response?

"Who's L?"
(sigh)

So then it was Savannah's turn. Our shy,overlooked middle-child.
Me: "SO, Savannah....what about you? Who do YOU like?"
Savannah:"Do movie Stars count?"
Me(curious, now): "Sure"
Savannah(with rapid speed):"Orlando Bloom,Johnny Depp,Gerard Butler, and Antonio Banderas".
Me: *blink* blink*
Me again: "What about T? (a boy from church).
Savannah(with great disbelief at my ignorant suggestion): OH MOM! He's really, really nice...but he's SHORTER than me!!!!

I think that the girl will do just fine.

On to Jack.
Me: "What about you, squirt?"
Jack: "I'll let you know after we're married".

WE MISS YOU RACE!!!!

 

Ballet class

Well, I can tell you one thing. If I ever get that reality TV show off the ground, I am DEFINITELY adding adult ballet classes to my list of resources for side-splitting humor! BWAHAHAHAHA!!!!

Incidently, I am increasingly aware that my life-long dream of a career as a professional ballet dancer....may be slipping away from me. Yes. Yes, I may have to let that dream die.



NO ONE is using Bare Essentials make-up? Well, you heard it here first. IT.IS.AMAZING! Run-go-RUN To get some.

Race, we love you and we miss you. Stay safe!
G'night!
Melissa