CCC

One more about my job then I'm done :)

2011-10-27T22:48:00.006-05:00

This here, my friends, is what you call a fabulous team of people to work with. Not sure how, but somehow I was the lucky one that landed myself a place on this team. Can't say enough about them.

Stuff

2011-10-24T22:17:00.002-05:00

Well....my thoughts haven't changed on my new job--it is PERFECT for me! Who knew I would love it sooo much? I still can't believe how unaware I was that I was so unhappy in my former job. I knew it was time for a change, knew there were things that I was just completely burned out on, but still....no idea how happy I would be and what a huge weight would be lifted. And the difference between working for a privately owned company vs. municipal government....HUGE. I won't even go there. That could be a book. The people, my team....oh so grateful to be a part of it.

So....working 40 hours a week at work, still doing Scentsy which adds a few more hours of work to my week, Greg worked the last 30 days=10 hour days=7 days a week, running Creighton to Milan FOUR DAYS A WEEK for baseball, plus basketball practice, Colby just finishing up West volleyball and softball and starting Power Volleyball....that's just the tip of it...I am running RAGGED right now. It's all good, but I am on the go and BUSY from 6:30am til at least 10:30pm.

And to top it all off...I am sitting here watching the Cardinals game and a mouse just ran across the living room. Ick....

I'm going outside to sit in the hot tub.....my few minutes to unwind, relax the mind and body before I hit the sack.

quickly....

2011-10-18T22:16:00.003-05:00

Softball tournament last weekend - first inning of the first game--Colby=nasty ankle injury. She is not a wimp. At all. She was hurt. Bad. Went home and spent the day on the couch. Today we took her to the dr. as she still can't put much weight on it. Nothing broken, just a sprain. It was the last tournament for this year (finally!). Not exactly how she wanted to end the year, but oh well. There is always next year...

This weekend is Power Volleyball tryouts. I don't know what Colby will be able to do, but hopefully, they will understand. They know her and her skills. I trust it will work out.

Creighton is going to Rock Island three days a week for baseball right now. Football is done. Basketball starts Thursday. Somehow everything falls so that we can do it all without any overlap. Not sure how, but it works.

Greg is working at TON of overtime. 10 hour days, 7 days a week. Lasts about a month. He is beat.

And I....well all I have to say is that I knew I would like my new job. Had no idea that after two days I would ABSOLUTELY.LOVE.IT. It is so perfect for me. I love, love, love it. I am so glad that after two days, it is absolutely clear to me that is where I am supposed to be and I made the right decision. No doubt whatsoever!!!

I must go to bed...now.

Done....

2011-10-15T08:38:00.002-05:00

Well...I did it. I walked out of the doors of city hall no longer an employee. Had a bit of a strange feeling in the pit of my stomach. I sat in my car for a bit before I pulled away. There
were no tears but yet I reflected for just a minute as I quickly ran throuh the past 16 years in my mind. There are things I will miss yet there are probably more things that I wont miss. The relationships, the familiarity, knowing my job inside and out, those I will miss. It's been a long time since I started a new job. Been a long time since I was the 'newbie' in the workplace. Been a long time since I was the one being trained versus being the trainer. But I am looking forward to my new career. Looking forward to learning and growing with a new team of people. Looking forward to all the expanded opportunities that come with my new position.

So this weekend I am regrouping and preparing to start this next leg of life's journey. That is....after we finish this softball tournament and unthaw ourselves.....spending the day in North Liberty at the last tournament of the year. I'm waiting in the warm car til gametime: )

And in other news......

2011-10-04T23:03:00.003-05:00

After SIXTEEN years of walking through the doors of City Hall and into the Parks and Recreation Department and spending most of my waking hours on the job....I have resigned! My last day will be next Friday. And I will begin my new job with Kent Nutrition Group on Monday, October 17th.

Sixteen years.....that is a LONG time. The year was 1995, I was 23 years old, engaged, no children, just out of college, living in a town of 200 (Dunkerton, Iowa), working for the City of Cedar Falls Recreation Division, when I was hired as Program Supervisor in Muscatine. I headed back to what I have always called home. Five years later I took on a different role in the Department (Office Coordinator) where I still am today.

I am ready for change. I am ready to move on. I am ready for a new and different challenge. I am ready to work with a new team. I am ready....I am READY. My heart told me so.

So much to say...so little time

2011-10-01T23:40:00.000-05:00

A little update on the kids is long overdue. Colby is STILL.PLAYING.SOFTBALL tournaments. Her season seems eternal--started in April and still playing in October. Ugh. LOVE it, but ugh....it's just a little too long. She has great potential. At practice she is a rockstar at bat. At times she has difficulty bringing her full potential to the game. It's getting better and she has had a few great hits in the last two tournaments. She plays first base and does pretty well there too. She is also playing seventh grade volleyball. She is on 'Team 1' which consists of the top 6 girls in 7th grade. The last couple of games she has had a ton of confidence at the net and really has taken her game over the top. Soon it will be time for our Power Volleyball season. Looking forward to that for sure!!! She is quite the little social butterfly and has something going on all the time. Friends, friends, friends....7th grade is quite an experience...hard to believe she will be a TEENAGER is just a few short months :(

Creighton has had a few things of his own going on. In July he tried out for the Quad City Hitmen 9U baseball team and was selected. This is quite an honor and he is so happy to be playing for the Hitmen. It is quite a commitment for him and us. But, as long as he is passionate about it, we will be too. He is also playing 3rd and 4th grade tackle football. Being a third grader, it is his first year. We are quite suprised to find out how 'non-agressive' he is. He will be starting basketball in a couple weeks. Not sure how we fit everything in, but somehow we make it all work. He also has some medical issues that we are currently seeing two specialists at the University of Iowa for. Nothing life threatening, but still needs attention. Just another 'thing' to deal with. We are committed to helping him feel healthy again and will do what it takes.

As for Greg and I...work, work, work and run kids and go to tournaments. That's it. When were not doing that, we have PLENTY to do around here. Seems quite overwhelming at times. Wish I could just have a hired hand that I can turn my 'list' over to and say 'get it done'. Ugh. We just don't have enough time to do it all.

Boys....

2011-09-05T22:31:00.000-05:00

Just a couple more from what was likely our last boat trip of 2011. Not a lot of free time over the next few weeks so this was probably it for the year.... and here are some cute young men enjoying the river.

And now we do this.....yikes?!

2011-08-31T19:15:00.000-05:00

Not quite sure I am ready for this, but he is....without a doubt! I keep reminding the world that he is ONLY 8.....and the world reminds me that yes, he is 8....so now he is not your baby, but all grown up. I REFUSE to believe it....

And the girls....

2011-08-31T19:05:00.000-05:00

And the weekend after we had the boys out...it was girls day out!

Boys

2011-08-31T18:58:00.000-05:00

A couple weekends ago it was boys weekend on the river. Creighton and three of his buddies from school.

First Day 2011

2011-08-18T23:12:00.000-05:00

7th Grade and 3rd Grade.

Yes, they are that cute. Yes, they were excited to go back. Yes, they had a fabulous day. and yes, I am so happy to be back in some sort of routine. It's all good!

Mud Bath :)

2011-08-18T23:00:00.000-05:00

The kids found a mud hole along the beach when we were on the river last weekend. They had a TON of fun smearing themselves with mud. Too funny!

just because he is cute.....

2011-08-18T22:54:00.000-05:00

River....again

2011-08-18T22:50:00.000-05:00

A river day with my favorite kiddos......

Yeah. This is disgusting. While Greg and I load the boat at Shady Creek the kids play at the playground near the dock. This time they found a bunch of cicada shells and Colby and Dane stuck them to their clothing. Creighton stood nearby and looked at them like they were crazy.

Holliday and Schumaker....Two of Creighton's faves!

2011-08-03T22:35:00.000-05:00

Saw Albert hit his 2000th hit

2011-08-03T22:29:00.000-05:00

Waiting and hoping for an autograph

2011-08-03T22:24:00.000-05:00

Busch Stadium Tour

2011-08-03T22:20:00.000-05:00

At the Arch

2011-08-03T22:12:00.000-05:00

Magic House

2011-08-03T22:09:00.000-05:00

After being at the zoo in 107 degree temps, we beat the heat the rest of the day by exploring the Magic House...fun!

Grant's Farm - Goat Feeding

2011-08-03T22:03:00.000-05:00

The Brewery

2011-08-03T21:58:00.000-05:00

And yes, the best part IS the hospitality room at the end :) And yes, I let both of my children taste my beer....it went exactly as I anticipated--Colby thought it was the most disgusting stuff ever and Creighton loved it. Not even sure what to say about that....

St. Louis Zoo

2011-08-03T21:52:00.000-05:00

Second Place....twice

2011-08-03T21:44:00.000-05:00

Colby's team played in Ames and Marion in July--both tournaments they earned second place finishes....not too shabby girls! Would love to see them pull out a FIRST place soon!!! :)

Softball

2011-07-26T00:55:00.002-05:00

So....the week after State Baseball, we headed to Ames for softball in the Iowa Games tourney. I went to take my first photo of the weekend and realized I left my memory card in my boat camera. So, once I get some photos I will post those. The girls had a rough first day, but in the end...played well in the final round and lost a CLOSE championship game....second place for them too. Not to shabby! Then this past Saturday they played in a tournament...undefeated in pool play, but lost in the championship game...another second place finish...sure wish they could pull out a first place soon!

Next photos will be of our trip to St. Louis.....when I find the time to blog again!!

So many SMILES!!!

2011-07-26T00:53:00.000-05:00

So.Much.FUN!!

2011-07-26T00:45:00.000-05:00

The little boys drive...

2011-07-26T00:39:00.000-05:00

Jet Skiing!

2011-07-26T00:36:00.000-05:00

We took out boat out....Jay brought a pair of jet skis....making for a super FUN day for Creighton, Colby and their friends!

River Girls

2011-07-26T00:31:00.000-05:00

more river time....

2011-07-26T00:24:00.000-05:00

State Baseball 2011

2011-07-26T00:14:00.000-05:00

we have been on the go non-stop forever. So I've missed blogging some of the highlights. This young man was so happy to bring home a second place tropy from the State Tourney. 2nd in the Silver Division. Far better than expected!

And how cute are they????? They held tight to those trophies all the way home from Des Moines :)

My fave picture of the summer so far....(click on it to make it a little bigger)

2011-07-13T23:51:00.001-05:00

Although he looks to be some gravity defying superstunt, he was really in the midst of a wipeout! I just happened to snap in the fraction of a second that he was wiping out. This boy....I tell ya what....he likes things fast and furious. He begs to ride the tube alone because no one else likes to go all out like this little man. He gets on there, gives a great big smile and thumbs up and then rides and jumps waves like no other. For goodness sakes...the kid is only EIGHT YEARS OLD....we all tend to forget that at times because he just seems older. My young man in his typical daredevil fashion....of course after his wipeout he comes up squealing with utmost delight and the HUGEST smile ever, "That was AWESOME!!" Kind of reminds me when he jumped in the big pool during Colby's swim lesson at the Y. At less than 2 years old, lifeguard jumps in to get him, he comes up grinning from ear to ear and when she asked if he was going to do that again he replied very excitedly, "YES!" Needless to say, we had him swimming like a fish by 2 and a 1/2. Then at 2, almost 3, he was riding a 4 wheeler. He rode fast and crazy....I quit watching after the time I saw him up on two wheels screaming, "Whoo, HOOOO!" Oh my.....what a boy....

We heart tubing!!!!

2011-07-01T00:34:00.000-05:00

River Girls.......

2011-07-01T00:18:00.000-05:00

i.love.the.river

2011-07-01T00:09:00.000-05:00

Everyone drives........

Love this....

A fabulous day on the river!

2011-07-01T00:01:00.000-05:00

A Newbie!

2011-06-30T23:53:00.000-05:00

Tyler came out on the river with us. It was fun to have him as it was a new experience for him and so fun to see him in awe of the whole river scene....all smiles, all day....love it!

A Fun 'Stay Home' Day!

2011-06-22T21:44:00.000-05:00

I took the day off on Tuesday to stay home and hang out with the kids. It was a GREAT day to enjoy our pool. It's so easy to take care of, we don't have to leave home, we love to have friends over and enjoy it with us, and it is great entertainment for the kids and their friends. After Colby's last tournament she invited her whole team to swim. It was great! Today Creighton and his buddy spent over 8 hours in the pool. Only getting out for a couple short breaks and right back in. I got to lay in the sun and read....perfect!

cool dudes with Greg's shades on.....

JUMP!!!!!

AGAIN.......

a pool and a boat....nothing says summer fun more perfectly!!

Innovative....or something kinda like it...

2011-06-22T21:24:00.000-05:00

They were busy in the garage for awhile. I came out to find the following project being put to the test....They cut the tow rope off of the boogie board....tied it to Creighton's bike, tied the other end to a little dump truck, and then took turns pulling eachother around....such imaginations these two....

And our first trip to the Aquatic Center for 2011

2011-06-22T21:16:00.000-05:00

crazy boys......

Our first river trip of 2011

2011-06-22T21:02:00.000-05:00

So, we had plans to take our boat out for the first time this year last Sunday and Greg got called into work. Sad, with our hopes high for a river day, my brother Jay, came through and we went out with him. Colby opted to spend the day with a friend and Creighton, Mackenzie, Maddison, Jay and I hit the river for a little beach time and a trip to Ducky's.
Ummmm.....gorgeous? No doubt.....

Handsome??? Absolutely......

Rugruts????? for SURE.......

Love her???? Yep....with all that I have.....

It was a nice first trip out. Looking forward to getting our boat out this weekend!!!! Praying for good weather!!!

And the book's closed on another tournament....

2011-06-12T11:39:00.000-05:00

Colby played in Mt. Pleasant again this weekend. She had some pretty good at bats. Her game has improved significantly from a year ago. Praise to her her fabulous coaches for the HARD work they put into this team. They practice their butts off, work hard in the batting cage, and understand the dedication it takes to make a successful tournament team. They are a young team-10,11,12 years old and many of the teams they play have a slug of 13 year olds on them. Those years make a difference, but on any given day these girls can hang tough with most any team out there.

And, the cutest spectator in the stands.......he watches A LOT of ball. At her tournaments you will find him hangin' on the fence watching a game whether its her team or some random team...he's watching a game. And likely at any time he can give you the score, the inning, the number of outs, the count and the team's record for the day...he's all about the numbers. Cute, cute....

Girls of Summer

2011-06-10T22:55:00.001-05:00

My summer volleyball girls for the Bettendorf League. What a fab group---love being on the court with them. They had their first two matches Monday night and KICKED BUTT! :) I think they are going to have a good season, and next year on the tournament circuit....look out!! :)

The Graduate

2011-06-07T22:39:00.000-05:00

hard to believe....this beautiful young lady that I so proudly call 'niece' has just begun her post high school journey through life....great things are in store for her....

Because I love this kid too......

2011-06-07T22:33:00.000-05:00

Not mine, but love him to pieces.....

My little man.....

2011-06-07T22:26:00.000-05:00

baseball...

2011-05-31T23:30:00.000-05:00

This is what we did Memorial Weekend.....

2011-05-31T23:21:00.000-05:00

This team had some fabulous games this past weekend. They played almost flawless defense on Saturday. Sometimes they struggle getting their bats going in the first inning. Monday, they didn't play quite like themselves. So, three trips to Cedar Rapids for games and a trip to Davenport to the pool store. That's it for our Memorial Weekend. This coming weekend we've got Colby playing in Mt. Pleasant and Creighton playing in North Liberty.

A thought on change......

2011-05-18T12:35:00.002-05:00

Change has a considerable psychological impact on the human mind. To the fearful it is threatening because it means that things may get worse. To the hopeful it is encouraging because things may get better. To the confident it is inspiring because the challenge exists to make things better. King Whitney Jr.

And of the three, I'm feeling confident......ready to meet the challenge.

Boys.....not mine and mine.

2011-05-14T11:16:00.000-05:00

This one is not mine, but I love him all the same....Tyler....loved getting to know him so well this last year. When he's at the house, he's just part of our clan and fits perfectly with our family. Not knowing the status of what we will be doing with baseball next year or where we will be playing, one of concerns is that I will miss this boy if he and Creighton aren't playing together :(

My cute lil pitcher.......

Running......sort of :) If you have seen Creighton's speed, you know what I mean :) He can run fast, when he's on the basketball court, etc, but when he gets on the baseball field for some reason he seems to be in a slow motion shuffle. Yeah, somehow we need to work on that?!

Got this pitcher all figured out. Timing is down and he puts one into left field hard on the ground this at bat. Yeah!

Softball, Baseball, Volleyball.....this is the story of our lives.

2011-05-14T10:59:00.000-05:00

Foul Ball

And a hit

Someone forgot to put her visor on and seen here struggling with the sun at first base

And yes, they think they are all that and a bag of chips! And they are.....

Boy Stuff

2011-05-06T23:20:00.000-05:00

The boys went to the Monster Jam. Colby and I stayed home :) Creighton was so excited to see the trucks he plays on his Monster Jam Wii game! They had pit passes so they could check um out up close and personal!

Beautiful

2011-05-06T23:13:00.000-05:00

My boys.....

2011-05-06T22:59:00.000-05:00

Hottubin Silly Boy

2011-05-06T22:50:00.000-05:00

Volleyball

2011-04-30T21:29:00.007-05:00

Im not sure how much I blogged about volleyball this winter--I'm assuming not much since I didn't blog much of anything. But, it was THE highlight of my winter. I loved coaching these 12 year olds more than I ever dreamed I would. I loved being on the court with them, directing them, teaching them, watching them love the game I love and just loving them. I will admit it was most difficult to coach my daughter, but all in all it was a good experience. Considering these girls had only had a very limited exposure to volleyball through the YSF program, they had an INCREDIBLE season. They had a lot of good tournaments. The improvement throughout the season was tremendous. It was a pretty significant time committment and very tiring at times, but I wouldn't trade it for anything. The tournaments are LONG. Most weekends we had to leave the house at 6am or so and wouldn't be back until 7pm that night. Volleyball tournaments are LONG, LONG.

And now, I am coaching at 13U team in a Bettendorf league for the summer. We are practicing Friday nights and playing in Bettendorf every Monday night. It stretches me pretty thin during an already hectic summer schedule. But I could.not.say.NO!

I didn't get to take any pictures this season because I coached the girls by myself most of the year. I had an assistant for a few tournaments, but not most. But, my mom got a few during the Mount Vernon tournament. Love, love, love all these girls.....

Colby is #8

Colby at the net with the poofy pony tail
And Colby with very poor passing form (I didn't teach her THAT! :)
Colby hitting outside
And all the girls
Colby hitting outside

Colby hitting at the net--looking like she's flailing a bit :)

Fun, fun, fun....Love it!

I can't blog....but I can steal/link posts pretty efficiently :)

2011-04-14T22:39:00.001-05:00

Read THIS about the upcoming fundraiser!

It's obvious

2011-04-12T12:31:00.002-05:00

So, it's pretty obvious that I have no time to blog. Or should I say, it has taken a backseat to the millions of other priorities in our lives.

But I can 'link'!! :) And, since Cassie and Jody have already blogged it, no need to re-invent the wheel, right?? Here they are......go here and here to check out the cool event Cassie will be hosting.

I will be donating all of my Scentsy commission from this event to the Adventure Project. You can shop for the event online as well! Go here and click on Cassie's 'Water' fundraiser and shop knowing that 100% of my commission will go to helping the water crisis!

For more info, just click on the above links--you should be able to find out all you need to know in order to support this cause! ;)

Test

2011-03-23T13:54:00.001-05:00

Test

Baseball Fever!

2011-03-05T09:33:00.002-06:00

So, I think I am getting more excited than ever for ball season to start. I just love seeing how far the kids have come over the last year. They are always faster, stronger,bigger and so much better than the previous year. I am still shocked at the development that happens between seasons. I am getting super anxious to see them on the field.

And today, I bought Cubs/Cards tickets for the July 29th game in St. Louis. So we're going to take a few days to run around St. Louis and go to a game. Super excited for that as well!

So, lots of baseball and softball games in the near future for us. Hard to believe its all just a couple weeks away! Love it, can't wait.

We've still got two volleyball tournaments left too. Then I was asked to coach a summer team in Bettendorf. Of course, I can't say no, so as crazy busy as we are this summer, I will SOMEhow fit in a volleyball practice and game in Bettendorf each week too :)

Lots of things going on, lots to do and soooo much to look forward over the next few months!

Happy Spring!!!!!

Valentine's Day Math....

2011-02-14T12:25:00.002-06:00

In the arithmetic of love, one plus one equals everything, and two minus one equals nothing.
Mignon McLaughlin

And, a couple Valentine funnies from our house: Creighton has always been inFURIATED if we ever ask him if he has a girlfriend or if he likes so and so, etc. So, the other day we were talking about Valentine's Day coming up. He said he made his Valentine box at school and wrote on it "I, and then a heart, Drea. Twice" It was SO cute. I couldn't believe he told me about that and he was so serious! Then I asked him about Drea and he said she is "tiny with blonde hair". Hmmm. So,my son is going for the cute little tiny girl with blonde hair. Wish I could have recorded our conversation--it was way cute!

And, my husband, the romantic... :) Got up this morning...told me goodbye somewhere around 5am, I kinda fell back asleep, but woke up when I heard the hot tub lid slam shut. A few minutes later he appears back in our room and says this "Happy Valentine's Day. I didn't get you anything." Oh my gosh it was so funny--brought a smile to my face. Because that's how he rolls. Upfront and matter of fact. Heck, I thought it was special that he even bothered to tell me Happy Valentine's Day! And then letting me know that he didn't get me anything was a nice courtesy as well. At least I didn't have to sit at work all day and wonder if I was going to get flowers :) And, I did smile everytime I thought about it. It was just so Greg like. Too funny! (And for the record he did take me out for a nice dinner last Saturday night:)

Happy Valentine's Day.

so far.....

2011-02-01T20:52:00.002-06:00

with regards to the storm.....
1 - winter pool cover, no longer on top of the pool.
2 - front door wide open (north facing door nonetheless) when the kids got home from school. creating snow drifts going down the hall and up the steps. yes, it's carpeted.
3 - no water. something went wrong with the well pump and we have no water. No flushing toilets or showers at our house. never mind that i took the day off tomorrow and planned to hang out with the kids and get all the laundry done and everyones bedding washed in order to free up some extra weekend time :)
4 - Greg needed a watch battery for a tool he needs to check the electrical to the well pump. So he is currently out in this horrible storm going to wal mart for a battery.

None of this is good news. And that's all I got right now :)

Brody Boyd Shooting Camp

2011-01-30T12:17:00.000-06:00

Creighton soaked up EVERY.SINGLE.THING Brody taught him. He hung onto his words like none other. He came home every day so EXCITED about what he learned and now has a newly inspired interest in basketball. Which means...either Greg or I has to take him to the Y to shoot EVERY night that he doesn't have baseball :) Love it!

just loaded christmas pics :)

2011-01-30T12:04:00.000-06:00

Birthday Girl!

2011-01-30T11:48:00.000-06:00

Puke Boy

2011-01-21T21:17:00.001-06:00

So...we got puke at our house. And, we have our only home volleyball tournament this Sunday. I can't be sick. And, I can't have Colby sick. Praying for health around here.....

Cowards do that!

2011-01-21T21:09:00.003-06:00

Like this quote.....I'm probably alone, but parts of it struck a chord with me. And it might have a little something to do with the fact that I think the Rocky movies are the greatest of all time :)

"Let me tell you something you already know. The world ain't all sunshine and rainbows. It is a very mean and nasty place and it will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently if you let it. You, me, or nobody is gonna hit as hard as life. But, it ain't how hard you hit; it's about how hard you can get hit, and keep moving forward. How much you can take, and keep moving forward. That's how winning is done. Now, if you know what you're worth, then go out and get what you're worth. But you gotta be willing to take the hit, and not pointing fingers saying you ain't where you are because of him, or her, or anybody. Cowards do that and that ain't you. You're better than that!" Rocky Balboa

I just ran across this today. I like it, and I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE every single Rocky movie--we watch them all the time!!!!

Attitude Check

2011-01-18T11:30:00.002-06:00

The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. Attitude, to me, is more important than facts. It is more important than the past, the education, the money, than circumstances, than failure, than successes, than what other people think or say or do. It is more important than appearance, giftedness or skill. It will make or break a company... a church... a home.

The remarkable thing is we have a choice everyday regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day. We cannot change our past... we cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude.

I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% of how I react to it. And so it is with you... we are in charge of our Attitudes. Swindoll~

My attitude has been changing lately. I'm letting things go. Things that aren't important--things that will never matter in the long run. Things that normally I would stress about, frett over--I'm letting them go. Things that 10 years from now, I don't want to regret wasting my time with. Gone.....just go.....away. Keeping a close eye on where I am investing my time. It's hard work. But, I feel it. Feel the freedom of being released from the grips of things that will never matter in 5 years, 10 years, or more importantly...eternity.

Will my daughter ever remember what she got for Christmas in 2010? No, but will she remember the year her mom worked so hard at developing her and her young friends into ball players and the bonding experience that comes along with it. Will she remember hanging out in the barn with her dad getting her pitching arm back in shape or playing with the kittens. Probably...more than likely.....indeed. Will my son ever remember the electronics that he had when he was 8 years old...probably not. But will he remember sitting at the dining room table every night playing board games with his mom and dad or last Saturday's 'dad and me' night at the Harlem Globetrotters game, laughing and laughing. Good chance of it.

When I look at where I want to be, where I want to spend my time, who I want to be with....it's with these kids and my husband. And right now I just can't soak up enough of them. Years of my time being spread so thin has made me miss out on a lot of things by just 'going through the motions' but not really 'being there'. But now, as I am slowly emerging out of that way of life, I am far more appreciative of the value of my time, where it needs to be spent and the importance of giving my time to my favorite people versus 'things'.

Needless to say....my plate is still very full. But as I examine the elements on my plate, its looking a whole lot more like it should.

I'm right where I want to be. And, it's so good.

Colby is turning 12!

2011-01-01T12:54:00.003-06:00

My first baby girl is now entering her last year of life before becoming a teenager! Not sure how that can be possible??? She is a beautiful young lady and we are so, so proud of her. She is amazingly smart and such a special girl. And a little sassy too :)

The year she was born I had spent the day shopping for groceries, etc getting ready to be snowed in for a few days as they were predicting up to 18 inches of snow. Shortly after Greg got home from work at 11pm we sat down to watch a movie when I thought, "oh crap, I just peed my pants or my water broke!" After determining that it was time to go have a baby (nearly SIX WEEKS early, mind you), we hit the road at about 1am. The roads were terrible as we made our way to Mercy Hospital. A normally 30 minute trip took an hour and a half! About 12 hours later after a very difficult delivery we had a precious baby girl that rested peacefully in the NICU for the next week. So, so thankful then and even more now, for our firstborn.....Happy Birthday Colbers!

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An end, and a beginning.....

2010-12-31T23:13:00.000-06:00

For last year's words belong to last year's language
And next year's words await another voice.
And to make an end is to make a beginning.
~T.S. Eliot

I Need A Silent Night.....

2010-12-24T11:08:00.002-06:00

Not very often is it Amy Grant that speaks to me...but this song hit it right on with me today.....take 4 minutes of your life to listen....to remember that it's not about the hustle and bustle, the gifts or the endless food. And remember, it's all about the Baby Boy....

Nice....

2010-12-19T21:46:00.000-06:00

Yes, I found this posted on the side of the fridge this weekend. Think the holiday rush might be getting to me yet?

Just cute

2010-12-19T21:45:00.000-06:00

Don't think I shared the kitten story yet. Around the first of September or so I told the kids they could each get a kitten from a friend who's cat had kittens and they had to get rid of them. We like to keep plenty of cats around here (ALL outdoors) to keep the mice population under control. And we were down to about 4 cats. So, we ventured out to get TWO kittens. Well, after arriving and trying to make the difficult decision about which two to get, I just said oh what the heck. We'll take them all! So I brought home all six little black kittens. And we LOVE them! They are the sweetest little things!!

Snow Babies

2010-12-19T21:39:00.000-06:00

These two had a blast in the snow this weekend. Creighton was out there ALL.WEEKEND.LONG! Colby joined him on Sunday. Here they were strategically planning how they were going to pelt Greg with snow balls when he got home. And yep, they got him!

Gingerbread House

2010-12-19T21:28:00.000-06:00

I signed Colby and Kenzie up for the Gingerbread House making class at the Art Center. This is their creation. They did so good and seemed to have fun too! Colby is my 'crafty' one for sure!!

Around the house

2010-12-19T21:22:00.000-06:00

Pictures don't do them justice, but here are my three trees this year:
This is the 'kids' tree in the den with all of their homemade and character ornaments:

This is the tree in the dining room. White lights and all silver, clear and white bulbs. (there is a mirror behind it so you can see the reflection which makes it look a little awkwardly shaped in the picture)

The living room tree. All silver and gold with just a few red bulbs and a big red bow.

The mantle. Forgot to take pics when the fireplace is going. Its so cozy! I'm not ready to put my Christmas stuff away even though I put it up the week BEFORE thanksgiving!

Not very good photos but that is because my NEW canon camera is AWFUL!!!! Don't want to jump the hoops to send it in to Canon etc so I just use it and complain about it instead :)

Too funny!

2010-12-18T18:21:00.003-06:00

My friend Dan is retiring in just a few short days. We have worked together since 1995. He is preparing for his departure and was sorting some pictures. These are a few that he sent me and I LAUGHED. SO. HARD!

On the phone at work (December 2003)........
and November 2005--Greg sent me 100 roses!!
And March 2002--the day after I got back from Jamaica......
Lots of fun memories! Happy Retirement DAN!!!!!

Just because

2010-12-12T13:21:00.000-06:00

a silly looking bird in the back yard.

our pond

a tree on my back porch :)

And A Little Boy Turned 8..........

2010-12-12T13:10:00.000-06:00

My little guy turned 8 in November. We rented the clubhouse at Muni for some simulator golf, Wii, etc. We followed that up with a sleepover with his two buddies from school. They stayed up late, did way too much wrestling for me, had their heads stuck together playing Creighton's new iPod touch for hours and then ran through the yard in their shorts and took a swim in the hot tub! They had a ball. However, I'm not up for another sleepover for awhile :)

Because I have a love/hate relationship w/ my camera....

2010-12-12T12:56:00.000-06:00

Yes, I do. I thought I would love it, but I hate it. Canon--you blew it on this one!!!!! ARRRGGGHHH! Anyway, I haven't loaded pictures since Homecoming--wasn't that like in September?????? Oops....
Greg, Creighton and Colby walking in the homecoming parade. Apparently, as seen here...Colby was texting along the way :) Shocker!

Creighton showing off his mad soccer skills.....he plays some great defense! It's not his passion, but he likes to play in the fall after baseball and before basketball. So it fit in nicely and what on earth would he do if he wasn't competing in something every season?!?!

Happy Thanksgiving from our Family to Yours!

2010-11-25T10:22:00.001-06:00

Remembering today to count my blessings,knowing that they are many.....and that the trials and difficulties of this life are often times the greatest blessings of all.

Once, when my feet were bare, and I had not the means of obtaining shoes I came to the chief of Kufah in a state of much dejection, and saw there a man who had no feet. I returned thanks to God and acknowledged his mercies, and endured my want of shoes with patience.
-- Sadi, The Gulistan

Grades

2010-11-10T23:40:00.002-06:00

Funny-Colby brought home her Science Test 95%, an A. Creighton brought home his Science Test 95%, an A. Colby's first quarter grades 6 - A's and 1 - B+. Creighton's first quarter grades 5 - A's and 1 - B+. Is that weird or what. How'd they do that? Regardless--I'm so happy that school comes so easy for both of them!

Also, as a side note. We had open house for Creighton the other night. He had an "All About Me" report. One of the fill in the blanks was "I have __________ eyes and _________ hair. Of course asking for colors. Creighton's paper said "I have TWO eyes and BLOND hair. Ha! Typical for him--he's a number's boy! Loves ANYthing to do with numbers! Too cute!

And today.....I miss my Grandpa!

2010-11-10T22:54:00.003-06:00

Today I get a phone call at work. Someone wanting to teach basketball clinics for our Department. He mentioned that he was a former Hawkeye basketball player. When I asked his name, it brought memories FLOODING back. He was a player that my grandpa and I watched play many, many games. Both in person at Carver and on TV. A player he loved to watch, I loved to watch. Hawkeye basketball was a love that we both shared. We had hours of discussions about various games and players. We went to several games each year together. When we weren't watching a game together he would make several phone calls to me during the game to see if I saw this play or that one. Sometimes he would get so nervous during a game he would shut the TV off and wait til the next day to find out the result!

After I got off the phone today, the urge I had to call my grandpa was IN.CRED.IBLE. I found myself frustrated and gritting my teeth! I wanted to tell him who I talked to. I wanted to talk Hawkeye basketball. I want him to come see my son be taught ball-handling skills by one of our favorite former Hawkeyes. Then my thoughts went further.....what I wouldn't give to have him see Colby play softball or Creighton play baseball. Just as he watched me for so many years. No matter how busy he was on the farm, he didn't miss a game. And, if he was here today, he would do the same for Colby and Creighton.

So, today, my thoughts were dominated with the greatest, most honorable man to walk this earth, my grandpa.......

Miss you......

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Mario

2010-10-31T22:33:00.000-05:00

And here we have Mario Carlson. There were only about a million little boys out there with Mario costumes....but none as cute as this one........

cheerleader or football player?

2010-10-31T22:25:00.000-05:00

At the last minute Colby decided she was going to be a 'powder puff' football player--very CUTE!!!

looks like she may have taken a break from the game to do a little sideline cheering ;)

Open House!

2010-10-25T22:25:00.003-05:00

Believe it or not the holiday's are rapidly approaching! And we have put together an open house hosting all of your favorite products so you can 'one-stop-shop'! Whether you want to stock your cupboard with Tastefully Simple goodness or have a new piece of Accentz Jewelry to wear to a holiday gathering or you want your house to be filled with the wonderful fall/winter Scentsy aromas, we will have all the latest and greatest for you! Or make some headway on your Christmas gift giving list!!!

Check out the flyer below and stop by on Friday, November 5th from 6-9pm. Everyone is invited so grab your friends, neighbors, sisters, your mom, aunts, co-workers or whoever else and bring them along! Make it a fun girls night out. Not sure what Tastefully Simple, Scentsy or Accentz is all about? Come over, have a beverage or two and do some browsing. It'll be fun! Remember, this is open house style so come anytime!

Feel free to forward this on to anyone else who might be interested!

In case you aren't familiar with where my house is, here are some quick directions: 2420 Lucas Rd is on Lucas across the bypass (on the country side, not town side). We are about 5 houses down on the left side. There is a white fence across the front and along the drive and the house is a two story brick.

Hope to see you next Friday!!!

2010-10-25T14:54:00.000-05:00

"The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched - they must be felt with the heart."
~ Helen Keller

Last Friday

2010-10-15T11:02:00.003-05:00

Yep, I'm a week behind. And yep, I forgot my camera for the hayrack ride. And yep, Colby was no where near again, have no photos of her. She was on the 'big kids' hayrack. What is it with these pre-teens??? All of a sudden they just have WAY too much to do besides hang around their parents to get their picture taken? So....a few pics from a friend.....

(Creighton is in the purple t-shirt and the gray sweatshirt--after I FORCED him to put it on:)

Time Out

2010-10-10T22:27:00.000-05:00

Friday night we took the kids to a hayrack ride out near where we used to live. It was fun, but a late night. Colby then spent Saturday in Davenport with a friend getting facials and manicures. Creighton had soccer and baseball and I worked outside all day. By Sunday we were all tired, wore out and the attitudes were less than admirable. Adults included. So we took a little family time out this afternoon, put all work aside and went fishing. It was so much fun! I've never had that much fun fishing! Creighton is the master fisherman. I never realized until today that it really does take some skill to catch a fish--he definately has it mastered! He was pulling in one fish after another. Two big catfish, one largemouth bass and a bunch of little bluegill. Colby caught a few bluegill. And I caught a couple little fish and one big largemouth bass--that was fun! And Greg..well he took fish off of hooks and put worms on. And best part...this is our backyard. (Colby was the one behind the lens today so that's why no pics of her)

And yes, I was using a Spiderman pole :) The kids got new poles this year. So I got the old Spidey pole. Ha!

Leaves

2010-10-10T21:45:00.000-05:00

Creighton spends LOTS of time raking....he loves to make a big pile to jump in. He raked so much this weekend, he got a new football out of the deal. Pretty darn cute boy if you ask me!

Scentsy!!!! It's Holiday Time....oh yes it is!!!

2010-10-07T22:45:00.002-05:00

Tis the season to begin thinking about the holidays....yes, already! Do you love the Holiday Scentsy Warmers but hesitant to purchase a seasonal warmer knowing you'll only be able to use it for a month or so? Problem solved! Host a qualifying Scentsy party ($150 in retail sales) with me in October and earn the holiday warmer of your choice (a $30 value!) This is in addition to the great hostess credits and half price items you will earn as well!! Think about having a girls night out Scentsy party and invite your friends for a few beverages and to check out all the new Scentsy products including: Fall/Winter scents, Scentsy Buddies, Fragrance Foam hand sanitizer, Scent Packs, the Holiday warmer collection plus all the new warmers released in the latest catalog! Your friends will have a blast checking out all of the new products and you will earn credits and discounts--win/win!!

Click here for a flyer with all the Holiday Warmers for this season or check out the October warmer of the month. Book a party today and begin thinking about your free warmer choice! No time for a traditional home party--ask me about a simple basket party! Same holiday incentive applies to a basket party hostess as well!

If you have any questions or would like to get a party scheduled please feel free to shoot me an email hgcarlson at machlink dot com or leave a comment here!

Thanks!

A first place finish this weekend!

2010-09-19T18:59:00.000-05:00

Three and two for the weekend was good for a first place finish in the silver division of a chilly and rainy tournament!

North Scott Tourney

2010-09-19T18:50:00.000-05:00

Neon night at the football game!!!

2010-09-19T18:38:00.000-05:00

the muskies didn't do so well, but these three made some cute outfits in support of 'Neon Night' at the game.

Look what we got....

2010-09-19T18:33:00.000-05:00

This is what we did today....

2010-09-11T21:01:00.000-05:00

soccer in muscatine and softball in moline. more of the same for tomorrow.....

Undivided attention

2010-09-06T22:06:00.000-05:00

Sunday we were on the river for day 2 of boating. Colby ended up going biking with Jay and Maddie at Saulsbury and skipped the river scene on Sunday. So, it was just Greg, Creighton and I. It was soooo fun to go hang out with just the guys. And although we missed Colby, it was fabulous to not have to 'referee' once all day! :)

A River Weekend

2010-09-05T09:57:00.000-05:00

We finally got our boat back after being at the 'boat hospital' for a couple weeks. I have been told several times that boat stands for 'bust out another thousand'. Ha! That didn't lessen the pain of the bill any, but whatever. It's our entertainment and something we love so worth it to us. However, we did proceed with proceed with extreme caution yesterday as we really don't want to put another lower unit on this boat anytime soon :) Love being on the water....

The Saturday Boat Crew minus me :)

2010-09-05T09:41:00.000-05:00