Johnny Law........or.......Johnny Bad Ass?????

A long time ago Race used to be a cop. He was a good cop.

I'll let you in on a little secret: Used-To-Be-Cops make the worst kind of criminals.

It's a mighty thin line that they walk between law enforcer and law-breaker. A mighty fine line indeed.

I give you the evidence.
What you see before you is Race's jeep. Oh, yeah....it's been in the mud....and it's seen it's good times...that's fer sure. But- this is the work of a deceiver. This, my friends is Race......on the run from Johnny Law. You see....... there is a purpose to this mud. It is hiding the !!APRIL 2006!! Inspection sticker.

(The state of Virginia cares about it's residents SO MUCH that they require you to have your vehicle inspected every year to guard against the dangers of burnt tail light, or tires that have worn too much........Thank -you Oh Great Law Makers for saving the lowly ignorant sheep...thank-you)






A closer look at the obvious deception that has allowed this man to drive for A YEAR on a dead inspection sticker. (BTW, he DOES clear a good sized portion of the windshield when he is actually driving...... I mean he's good an all.....but, C'MON!)





I am thinking that the following sticker on the bumper of the jeep doesn't help a thing. Can you read the bottom of it? It says : "Backpacking , Climbing, French Kissing, Paddling, Adventure Racing"


And the Arab Chic? Well......... who can blame him? That one DOES turn heads around our small town. (BTW, Moosejaw sells awesome outdoor gear....and gives away free stickers when you order)

G' night!We miss you Race! (You law breaker, you!!)

Dad's Back Home

Dad is home, and everything went very smoothly. He is following doctors orders and taking it easy for awhile. (Which for him, is probably the most difficult part of the whole thing!!)

Thomasina went to the hospital to stay the night in the hotel with Mom, and keep her company while everything was happening. The kids and I went by for a bit to visit after the procedure, and then came on to Mom and dad's house from there.

But I think the highlight for dad happened after he arrived back at home. He had just gone back to the bedroom to lay down and read the paper, when Em arrived with her 3 boys. Q was carrying an enormous boquet of flowers that was so big, it was shielding most of his face. I am not sure if there is anything more charming than 2 little boys carrying flowers, who are very aware that something very important is taking place, and that they are a part of it. Q and W walked over to Pap-paws bedside, as he raised up to happily greet them. Q reverently handed him the flowers while W had a steady running commentary, "Here's your flowers Pap-paw, They make you feel better. Uh-Huh. They do. They make you feel all better, Pap-paw". It was so sweet, and dad was so touched by it.

The kids and I will be on our way back to our house today. Thanks so much for all the prayers for my mom and dad. They are so appreciated, and we are so thankful that it has been the Lord's will to keep our parents here for us. I still have so much to learn.

Have a great day!
Melissa

The next few days are going to busy ones for us. My dad is going back in the hospital for angioplasty. So we will be on the road. We will be praying for dad. We'll be looking forward to seeing him.....and mom........and Race.

The events at VT are right in our backyard, and almost everyone knows SOMEONE involved in this tragedy. The following was sent from my pastor, and I felt that it was such an apt response for Christians that I wanted to reprint it here:

Beloved,

I grieve with you over the evil events at Tech yesterday. What a
sobering reminder that we live in a world which is in rebellion against
its good and glorious Creator. It is not supposed to be this way. One
day, all evil and death will be swallowed up and life will reign in
righteousness on the earth, in the presence of God. Until that day we
trust and pray, we hate evil, we repent of the evil in our own hearts,
we show compassion to the destitute, while being amazed that such things
don't happen more often.

We grieve with those who lost children, knowing the greater horror our
Father experienced at Calvary punishing His Son for the sins of His
enemies. We're thankful that God hates the shedding of innocent blood,
and that justice will be done in heaven. We know that no place is safe
on this earth, save for the everlasting arms of Jesus. To be in those
arms by sovereign grace is profoundly comforting. May it lead you to
worship.

Perhaps God is showing Americans what it is like to live in countries
where terrorists regularly torment others with their acts of vile evil.
We need to pray for them, as for ourselves, that our world would be
increasingly hungry for the good news of the gospel, the only sure hope,
the love of God in Christ.

Pressing on together for the renewal of the earth, humbly by unfailing
mercy,
M.
G'night,
Melissa

Jack is sitting beside me eating gingersnaps for his dessert. he took a look at my blog and said, "Man mom, we need to get a new picture of you for your blog. That one's hideous." Well...o.k.

Today is a sad day for everyone in my state, because of the tragedy that took place at VT. God be with those families.

I will continue to carry a handgun.

This morning, Race was up at 5:00 getting ready to hit the road for his week of "training". I got up, fixed his breakfast, filled his thermos and then watched his car go down the road until I could no longer see the tail lights on the car. I went back to bed, and then got up a more decent hour. By the time I fixed breakfast for myself and the kids. Race called. He was on his way back home, due to a power outage. So, we got an unexpected day at home with dad! By the time he got home,it was lunch time (they just refer to me as Feeder Woman these days), and the younger two were finished with lessons, except for Latin, which we all do together.

By the late afternoon, there was an all out laser tag war going on in the woods behind the house. I figured that if anyone was pinned by a falling limb or tree, surely we would hear their calls for help. After all, it was only GUSTS of 60mph winds, right? ;-) Anyway it was the mother of all laser tag wars, with text messaging, human shields (O.k., that's ALWAYS savannah, and she's used by both sides), and even the dogs were released for a distraction and evasion technique.It lasted for over an hour. Great fun was had by all!

Have a good night.
Melissa

Baseball pics for John!

Dy's son, John, wanted a baseball video. Well, we don't have any video of the boys yet, but here are a few pictures from one of Austin's highschool games. He plays second base for the Gryphons.
Play Ball, John!!!

As always, thank-you to Thomasina for the awesome pics!

The Hotness

To me, Race is "IT".
I mean, seriously, since the first time that I met him, and then later saw him on the football field in college, he has been my definition of "hotness". It was his manyly masculin-esity that got my attention , and it is that very same quality that continues to catch me off guard today. Let's face it, when it comes to pure, potent, muscled, fitness, Race isn't the guy you want to compare yourself to. He IS the illustrious warrior.

That's how *I* see him.

But I was taken aback the other day while sitting in the salon. I was having my hair taken yet another shade lighter, on the LONG road back to being platinum blonde...(which, I have decided, is indeed, "more fun").... and the salon owner, whom I have known for years, slides up to my chair for a little chit-chat.
You should know, that I started getting Race to go to this salon for his hair cuts a few months ago. He would be working in D.C. for awhile, and they give a much more executive-professional looking cut than the barber with his shears.

So, anyway, there I am- foils all in my hair, staring down at the latest STAR magazine, to see what Brittney's been up to... and I hear her the click-click of Ms. Salon Owner's heels on the floor over to my chair. The words that flowed from her perfectly painted lips could not have stunned me more. She says....and I am quoting here...."I just want you to know that we are all just talking and salivating over that good lookin' husband of yours every time he comes in here." END QUOTE

As I gave out a little nervous laugh, several thoughts randomly flashed through my mind: WHAT??!!... "What was he wearing?"...... "Are they going to make my hair look like crap now, on purpose?"....... "Am I gonna tell Race?"...... "Oh my God! Does Race KNOW????"....... "Yeah-I think she's doing my hair like that on purpose".

But I think that it was only the nervous little laugh that actually came out of my mouth. There was a bit of conversation that ensued among the salon gals, all in agreement, and then on to something else.


So. There that is.

It's somethin' to think about, girls. Somethin' to think about. And why was I so shocked? And also...DOES Race know?????? Does he???? How would you feel about that??


I know this one thing, for sure: When I see my Johnny Bad Ass, my definition of all-that-is-hot-in-this-world, being the patient, understanding dad that he is with our kids, helping them be the best that they can be.........well, (swoon) I'll tell ya- it just sends me over the edge. It makes me realize a thousand times over why I married this man. I'd take my skinny butt and fight off an entire clan of Amazon warrior-salon-women, including Sheera herself for Race. I luv 'im. (sigh)

Fixed it!

O.k., there are a few things that you should know before watching the video. First of all, this is my first shot at the whole You Tube thing....so..bear with me and be sure that your sound is on for the full effect.

Next- *this happened this morning. As in A.M. I had just stumbled outside with my coffee, onto the safety of the back deck to watch this scene unfold.

* Race saw a rat snake slithering out of the hole of one of our bird houses this morning.

* Race does NOT like snakes (accounting for a few of the shakey camera moves).

*Race calls Jack out of bed with the news that there might be some fun snake herding and poking this morning. This sent the sleepy-eyed boy straight out the back door, and into his waders ..(for protection against possible bites, I am guessing).

* And lastly and most importantly, what happens at the end of the movie, we did NOT expect. WE ABSOLUTELY HAD NO WARNING THAT THE BOY WOULD DO THAT!! We tried to temper our shrieks with more excited.."way to go!" voices. Shock and Awe, baby. Shock and Awe!

Jack's snake

I am trying this again.

Come back in just a bit!

I'm workin' on You Tube!!!!!!

SHE WON!!!

Savannah won a first place ribbon in the art competition! Here she is standing in front of her first place entry in the computer art division. It is titled "The Unknown". It is beautiful. I wish that you could really see it in the picture. I'll take good pictures when we bring the artwork back home, and post them.

She was really thrilled, and has been inspired to enter other competitions now. Computer Art and Pen and Ink are her favorite media, so far. And it is her goal to write and illustrate her own books. She is amazingly talented, and when you see her draw, or paint, or create something on the computer, it is absolutely mind-boggling. It is as if you are watching it flow out of her like some sort of silky-smooth liquid, and it is creating a beautiful image. And most of what she creates is done with lightening speed. It's as if what is inside of her MUST COME OUT.




Her other works received Honorable Mentions. In the picture you can see "Sparring Squirrel" and below that one of a single eye, done in charcoal. I can't remember what she called this one, but this is one of my favorites.


This was really a wonderful experience for her. Thanks to Emily for pointing it out, and turning in her artwork for us. And thanks to Thomasina for helping her to matte her pieces for display. She can hardly wait to do more! We are so proud of her!

Outdoor Pursuits......a defense

Our kids love the outdoors. This is one thing that Race and I have been successful at passing on to them.

But, still. Pictures like the ones below, undoubtedly make some folks cringe. Like we have abondoned our child to grow up with nature, as nature would have it. Like race and I have dreadlocks, and are living in a van down by the river. But, let me explain...

For Jack, the outdoors is like one Giant Treasure Hunt. The motherload, if you will of amazing, mindblowing mysteries to be solved.

I kid you not, when I tell you that this child skeptically, and correctly critiques "Survivorman".

He is very well versed in the dangers in our "neck of the woods". (Due to his own curiosity and the paistaking training of MANY family members! Thanks, Mam-maw, pap-paw, Aunt Thomasina, Austin, Savannah...just to name a few!) He can identify all the plants, reptiles, mammals, fishes, and all manner of living things here where we live. He knows which snakes and lizards are O.K. to catch, and which must be avoided and reported. So, we haven't just let the little guy grow up like Tarzan.......exactly. And we do wrangle him up on Sundays, clean him up and sit him in chuch to keep him civilized and religious. Really. There's no cause for alarm.

Look! Blissful childhood!! There it is! In action..


Behold! ............The Booty!! (No, I don't mean the quarter...stick with me, here)

Jack found this little baby snapping turtle in the creek yesterday. I thought that the kid was going to wet his pants! He was so excited that he wanted to sit down and write( YES. WRITE.....With a pencil and paper, and everything.......have I mentioned that this kid is a total pencil-phobe??) a letter to his little cousin(and fellow critter catcher) Q, to tell him about it. Complete with photo.

So, while he is, maybe, some sort of modern-day Mowgli, his father actually holds a very respectable job, his mother wears make-up, and much-too-rarely-, gets her nails done. And sometimes, on a weekday, we even make him discard his loincloth and wear civilized clothing. So......no worries.......we're good.

have a good day!

Melissa

Good Gear. Very Important.

I was going to try to put together my gardening post tonight, but I found that I just didn't have it in me right now.

So I thought that I'd go ahead and expound on something that Dy touched on last night. Dy's no slacker, and there's not much that the girl misses. After gazing at our camping pictures, she noted my most prized camping gear. Thank-you, Dy.
Check the photo below, and you will see.......

MY CAMPING WINE GLASS

This little baby was a gift to me from Race.

(Who, besides being a sucker for all things "GEAR", was probably tired of seeing his wife slurp wine from a tin cup, and then wipe her mouth with her sleeve.)

This little glass is a sheer stroke of genius. It is made of the same unbreakable material that the new nalgene water bottles are made of. You can drive over the top of it, and it WON'T BREAK. (this was definitely a selling point, because I tend to break all things fragile).

But- WAIT. Here is the best feature. Do you see the stem of the glass? It screws off, and nests upside down in the cup part! So you can throw it in your backpack, without worry, and without taking up precious room that could be used for something more important.......like an extra pair of wool socks...........or a bit of brie to go with that wine.

Of course someone still has to carry the bottle of wine. But this issue can be quickly solved by slipping the bottle into your oldest's backpack when he isn't looking.

Yeeeeeeessss.....................that's MUCH classier. Right?

Pick up your very own Camping Wine Glass at the outdoor outfitter nearest you and be the envy of all of your camping friends.

We have been busy!!!

I actually typed out an entire post the other day detailing the caving trip that Austin and Race had recently gone on. I had pictures and everything. But Blogger said it was a no go. So, I had to take a hiatus, and cool my jets. Now I am ready to blog again!!

As I said, Race and Austin went caving (spelunking?). I'll post the pics another time. They had a blast.

We went camping with Race the past few days. We had such a wonderful time. It was Race's birthday, and we surprised him.

We got up out of our tents before him and got the campfire going again. When he got up the kids and I handed him a pan full of hot cinnamon rolls (his favorite), and we sang happy birthday to him. With only the sound of our own voices, the rushing creek, and all the birds who were waking up for the day, it was really an awesome sound.

And, you can bet, that all this was not lost on Race. he was really touched. He enjoyed it so much!

We got him several things that every cool-outdoor-dad should have, but the best gift was a new camping hammock. This thing is the bomb! It sets up ANYWHERE, in less than 5 minutes, and packs up the size of a computer battery, and weighs only ounces. AND-you haven't heard the BONUS- you can attach a rain cover/bug net to it, and use it for sleeping in instead of a tent!! And, yes. 2 people can fit into it comfortably! (O.K., 2 couldn't SLEEP in it comfortably, but for just lazin' around, yes, most definitely a 2 person hammock).

So here are a few pictures from our latest camping trip:



Here is Race, enjoying his new hammock! (You can open it up, or close it in a coccoon fashion like he is doing here.) Will hold an amazing 400 lbs!!!

I took this picture standing under one of the giant pine trees where we camp. The tree is very much alive, and it is HUGE. But in the picture you can't see the pine needles. I thought it was cool.
And Oh LOOK! It's me! Someone took a picture of ME! I am recorded. I was there. With the Fam. Frolicking about, camping, and having a good time. There it is. The boys. Roasting marshmallows, and generally just being goofs.
We put that big dead pine tree on the fire, and it took 2 days of hot campfires to burn through it, before we had 2 pieces of nice pine logs on the fire!
Below, you see Austin and Scout. Scout's a good dog.
Hmmm.......not sure about this one. Reflection? Surprise? What are they looking at? Is someone speaking to them? Who? Have they made the aquaintance of an unusually well-mannered Yedi and invited him for coffee?? I just don't know.

In other news, Austin had his first varsity baseball game of the year. He played really well, earning himself the new title of "Aus the Hoss". BWAHAHAHA! Is there anything funnier than teenage boys?????

I have a whole gardening post that I've been itching to write about, so maybe I'll get to that tomorrow. Caving, camping, gardening........

G'night,

Melissa

One of the Mysteries of Humanity

Have you ever thought much about the fact that we, created by God for his own pleasure and glory, are permitted by the Creator Himself to deny Him? Even though we are totally dependent on Him for our next breath, with that breath we may declare that He does not exist or that we refuse to do what He wants us to do. We live by the life He gives us, moment by moment. We enjoy rain, sunshine, the growth of crops and flowers, sensations, delights, satisfactions of many kinds. Yet we often act as though we were sufficient in ourselves, needing no interference from Him.
I can, by the power mysteriously granted me by my Creator and Redeemer, declare myself master of my fate, captain of my soul, and say, "My will be done." That the Lord should expose Himself to this effrontery in a million forms, for millions of days and nights, is the mystery of love and grace. Still He draws us with cords of love, calls us to come, waits (amazing grace) for us to bow and say, "My Lord and my God!"

The above was written by Elisabeth Elliot and was in my inbox this morning. Thought that I'd share it with you, too.

Hope that you had a great weekend! Ive got some new pictures to post, so hopefully I'll get to that this evening. Have a good Monday.

top THIS!

O.K., so Dy posted about her less-than-stellar-parenting-moment. And then another friend sent me an email that reminded me of one of my own "moments".

When our oldest offspring/guinea pig was about 8 yrs old. He was going to his first sleep over with some of his very best friends from church. In fact, they were sleeping AT the church. And the adults were very good friends of ours. They had organized a super fun night filled with games, and candy, and food, and some Bible time as well.
He was looking forward to it, but as has always been the norm with our oldest, he was completely subdued, showing little-to-no- excitement. He just sat there looking all small in the seat, in our old clunker of a car, clutching his sleeping bag and pillow.

We finally pull up to the church where his friends (and mine) are waiting for him.

*Now, not to place blame....but my mother raised me on a healthy dose of fear. Strangers were to be avoided, as well as going to bed with your hair wet, running with a stick in your hand, and swimming after eating. I was RAISED on caution, folks. So the following conversation (which I recount with equal shame and astonishment that this child seems to be turning out well in spite of the up bringing that I have provided for him), was just good parenting to me, at the time.*

So. back to the story.

We pull up to our church:



ME: "No matter what, you stay inside."

Austin: "O.K."

Me: "Do you understand? Don't you go out those doors."

Austin: "Yes ma'am"

Me: "I meanit. No matter what ANY of your friends do, you stay in the building, with (our friends)."

Austin: "O.K., I will."

Me: (louder, and yeah, I have pretty distinguishable accent) " If that buildin' CATCHES ON FIRE, I better find you standin' in those ashes.....da'you understand me!??"

Austin: (quietly)" O.K."

Me:(all perky, now) " O.K. sweety!! You have a good time! O.K?(kiss,kiss) We love you Bubba!! Have fun!!"



Yes. It's all true. ......................All of it.


Even the "Bubba" part.



So- Top THAT!

Have a great weekend!

Melissa

C-C-C-C-CAMPING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We love being outdoors. We spent the whole weekend camping!

We have an awesome spot that is a short hike from the house, at the back of our property. We had the most beautiful weather this weekend, so we packed up and headed down to our favorite camping spot. Not only is it beautiful..................IT'S OURS!!

Race and I headed out to the grocery store and grabbed the essentials: marshmallows and hot dogs for the kids; sushi and wine for us!! By the time that we got down to the campsite, the kids had their tents put up, and the fire ring repaired from last fall, and Austin had a great campfire going.

Here are some pictures from our weekend. Jack was sittin' pretty on the overturned bucket, while he and Savannah competed who could burn and eat the most marshmallows.

Above, behold the worlds most amazing, functional, and comfortable tent. It's MSR's "Hubba Hubba". It is a 2 man tent with zippers on EACH side, so that your partner doesn't have to flatten you out like a pancake just to get up and go to the bathroom! This thing packs the size of a loaf of bread, and weighs a mere 4 lbs.
Here you will see the oldest of our offspring assembling a bench. He was tired of sitting on the dirt. We have found that if you don't GIVE the little beggars every little thing, (ya know, like CHAIRS) they can be quite constructive!
Our beautiful creek! Teaming with all sorts of fish, water bugs, and fresh water crustaceans to make a little boys heart sing to the heavens!
Ummmm.....I don't know....maybe he smells something bad. That's always a likely possibility with my boys.
Above is an example of sheer boyhood bliss. (Buying that boy those waders was a stroke of genius!!!)

Jackson modeling the latest in head lamp gear!
I really wish that I could explain this one. Really. I do. The underwear. The saw. The log. All of it. I just don't know.
We had such a wonderful weekend. It was just what we all needed to re-charge our batteries. It was one of those weekends that makes you feel sorry for anyone who isn't you. ;-) And we could all use one of those once in awhile, couldn't we? Oh. And did I mention that there was wine and sushi???

Another 1st degree Brown Belt!

Yes, we have another 1st degree brown belt in the family. Jack passed his test, showing that he had learned the skills and had the physical fitness to earn his Jr.brown belt in mixed martial arts. We are so proud of all of his hard work. He did a great job!! Check out those push-ups!! And Race was home to see it.








The kids in the background were playing a game while Jack was being tested. And, yes, his coach is married. LOL!!

Way to go Jack!!

Meet George Jetson! .......Jane,His Wife!

Nope. No serious political bloggin' goin' on here, yet. LOL!

"We're like the Jetson's". This was Race's remark.

We were all in the car the other afternoon and headed for the wide array of activities for the day. Race wanted to know the schedule, so while driving, I explained that Austin would be dropped off at baseball practice at 3:20, then we head back into town just in time to drop Savannah at Pilates class at 4:00, and then almost making one big circle, we would get Jack to Martial Arts.

"We're like the Jetson's", he said.

In a way. I guess. But as I recall, the mother-figure in that animated series, Jane, was always dropped off at the mall, with a wad of cash. So in that way, we are NOT like the Jetson's.

*And as an aside, why do we not have the flying cars yet???? How long have they been promising those????*

Anyway, I think that if given the choice, I'd much rather be Judy Jetson. She was so cute and groovy. And man could that girl dance!

But in reality I think I resremble some sort of odd combination of Rosie and Astro. (sigh)

Savannah as Peter's Grandmother in The Emporer's New Clothes

Mam-maw and Pap-paw came, and the entire family showered her with flowers after the production. She did such an amazing job. Race and I just sat there in awe. She was so relaxed, so calm. She kept a perfect British accent through the whole play. WOW! My little girl is growing up, and we couldn't be more proud of her!

This Weekend

The whole family came down to visit us this weekend! They all converged on our little town to see a very important play. Savannah was starring in "The Emporer's New Clothes"!! We appreciated it so much that the whole family was here to support her. She did such an amazing job, and we could not have been more proud. She seemed absolutely fearless. Aunt Thomasina took the pictures, so as soon as she sends me a few, I'll post them here.

After the play, everyone came back to our house for dessert and coffee. As always, just a great time hanging out with the family.

After church today we went snow tubing with a bunch of people from church. We had a blast!

I made it!

We ended up getting back home at around 8:30, and there were a couple of things that made the day go a little easier. One thing was that the kids finished school lessons early. Also Savannah's pilates class and the Fine Arts Academy were close enough together in time and distance, that I ended up having to make one less trip, so that was nice. And Jess, I did end up getting dinner for the kids while we were out. But Race and I had salmon, with a spinach salad and multigrain bread. We've been trying to be good about nutrition, and it only took a few minutes to fix. And unfortunately we were going to be eating really late anyway.

My ballet class was great and I have a pair of screamin' calves today to prove it!

We had a good day today. The kids got an abbreviated school day in order to get outside and enjoy the AWESOME weather today. Race went to the college to swim, and then we met him for lunch. It was nice enough for him to take the jeep out today, so after lunch he headed to the shooting range, while the kids and I stopped for some grass,etc. for the yard.

Jack is loving Latin, and today I caught him trying to teach Scout (our chocolate lab). He was doing his chant for "laboro" and getting the dog to make the hand movements with his paw!

Jack spent most of the day at the creek. And at one point I saw him come flying through the kitchen,screen door slamming behind him. He was running through with his shirt pulled up in front, like he was holding something in it. "Hey! What've you got there?" And he calls back, half-way up the stairs to his bedroom, "A FISH! I caught a big fish!!" The lucky fish who was caught (bare-handed, mind you, indian style)by the boy was being transported with lightening speed to the aquarium. He is there as we speak. When Jack came back down, he had my kitchen tongs holding his giant crawdad. "WHAT ARE YOU DOING?" He stops and looks at me incredulously,"Well, I CAN'T leave the crawdad in there now.....He'll eat the fish!" And out the door he went to free the crawdad. With my kitchen tongs.

Have a great night!
Melissa
Oh. and blogger has a new feature that I've recently added. If you come here, and read this blog and don't comment, your keyboard will melt. Neat, huh?



O.K. I'm kidding. But C'MON, y'all....!

I forgot about Bridget!! Bridget has been going to the gym with her hubby, too!! Sorry, Bridg!! Whilst handing out all my applause, I forgot about ya! So, consider yourself patted on the back and encouraged. Keep that gym bag in the car!!

Look at this To Do list for me today...and weep with me:

1. Treadmill/Abs
2.Breakfast for all
3.School for everyone
4.Lunch (laundry and housecleaning)
5.School lessons till 3:00- (They get tons of breaks during the day, but we never seem to be able to "finish" and clean up all the school stuff till 3:00)
6.Put on something for dinner (No, I don't know what that will be yet)
*3:30- leave the house*
7.. Drop Jack for Martial Arts
8.. Ballet class for me
9..Pilates class for Savannah
10. Drop Savannah at Theatre practice
11.. Pick up Jack from Martial Arts
12.Drop Austin for M.A. and Jiu Jitsu
13. Go and get groceries
*drive home put away groceries and serve dinner*
14. Drive back out pick up Savannah
15. Pick up Austin
*We'll get home at about 8:45* (Is that you I hear weeping?? Oh- no. Wait. That's me.) LOL

This is the only day that it's THIS bad, and I was hoping that writing it all out would make it look a little better. But.........no. I gotta go see what we're going to have for dinner and get on that $&*#@ treadmill!!

Just Earnin' my keep around here!
Have a great day!
Melissa

Congratulations Jess on the Loss O' Inches!!! Keep it up, girl! Woo-Hoo! And Way To go Thom on keeping up with a work-out schedule last week, and eating healthy. Excellent start! And I know that Em has joined the Y and she and her whole family are already benefiting from that. And Laney has been going to Body Pump at the gym. Nicely done, gals. Nicely done. Way to push back! BTW, did y'all LOOK at my gym-dungeon???? I mean C'MON!! It TAKES some motivation to go down there!!

Savannah got her braces on this week. She is actually quite pleased. Aside from a little discomfort, and the initial learning how to eat certain things, she hasn't had any trouble at all. And they look great on her just-turned-13 smile. She looks very teenager-ish now. She picked out aqua blue bands.

We had my VERY DELICIOUS Irish Stew tonight for dinner. I had served a multigrain roll on the side, and Jack happened to look up from his place to see Savannah trying to tear into that crunchy roll with her new braces on. After staring at her, wide-eyed for a moment he remarked, "Uuuuhhhhhh..........ya havin' a little trouble there?" LOL. She quickly put him back in his place by reminding him that she was having no more trouble than he was having eating his carrots. (He dislike carrots, so he had finished all of his stew except the carrots.......and yeah, he had to eat them).

I'll post the recipe for the stew later. It is really delicious, and there is nothing like a good hearty stew on a cold icy day. And incidently, it looks like we may be in for several of those.

So, what do you think of my new blog look? Do you like the sidebar picture? It is definitely more current than the other one, except that my hair is dark right now.

Gotta go finish my lesson plans for the week,make brownies for dessert, read aloud from "The Rats of Nimh" to Jack (which the other 2 always end up listening in on, too), watch the Amazing Race with....Race, replace this hideous chipping polish on my nails and then read aloud from Eusebius with Race!

Have a good night!

Workin' Out

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?

MUCH better pictures of the event!

Thomasina's Blog

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