This week's artist is Jake. Today was the last day of his LEGO Robotics course that he took under the auspices of the Summer Regional Governor's School (scroll down the page for the summer school programs). The courses are free and are open to gifted students that have been accepted into the program via a competitive application. It is a wonderful program and, as you can see in the picture, Jake was one very happy camper.
He was very willing to get up early each morning of the eight day session and ride in with his father and be dropped off before the opening bell at 8:30 am. Not once did he gripe to me about going to school. I think his only disappointment was concerning their field trip to a local robotic manufacturer, because the students were not allowed on the production floor.
Anyway, he had a great time and this is about the final robot that he helped to produce. The students would get partnered up with different kids then design, build and program a robot for the challenge of the day. The kids were not only learning about the engineering side, but also about teamwork.
Today family members were invited to attend the last robotic challenge. It gave us a chance to see exactly what had been going on during the past eight days of class. Fortunately both Larry and I were able to go and see the fun firsthand.
For his last project Jake was teamed up with the young lady in the picture. She seemed like a really sweet girl and was bright and chatty when we met her today. She explained the program and the robot to us and was very impressed with Nate's knowledge of radar (thank you History channel- aka the WWII channel). It looked like she and Jake worked well together and were having a good time.
The robot they designed was meant to follow a course and hit four different targets. The course, on white paper, was laid out on several tables in the classroom. A black lined marked the preferred path to the targets. From what I could see Jake's team used line/color sensor to find the line and an ultrasonic sensor to find the target. They used a laptop to set up the running program and then downloaded it into the LEGO NXT Intelligent Brick (the brain of the robot).
Each team got two tries with time built in to modify the robot in between runs. The course stared off fairly simply with a straight path to the first target. Then it got tricky. The robot had to turn and cross a short yet narrow bridge. After the second target the course got progressively harder.
Here is a longish film of the two runs spliced together.
I'm very proud to say that their robot came in second overall. It wasn't able to complete the course, but points were awarded for hitting the taget and following the line. One robot almost finished the course. It just missed hitting the final target. The two teaching assistants made special trophies to commemorate the occasion. Jake, of course, promptly put it on his head and walked around with it precariously perched on top. I t was such an utterly Jake thing to do I just had to share it with y'all.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Wednesday, July 09, 2008
AOTW: Postponed
It's late and what I want to do won't be ready until tomorrow, so Artist of the Week is postponed until tomorrow.
Really, I promise.
Really, I promise.
Tuesday, July 08, 2008
Free Movies
I love movies, but I have very little time to see them. As a result there are many decent films out there I haven't seen. My husband and I considered Netflix, but again there is that whole time thing. We would end up paying money for movies we don't have time to watch and feel pressured to watch them because we paid for them. It's only five bucks a month, but I know there'll be months when we don't watch anything.
Enter the library. It turns out or local library has quite a collection of DVDs. Even better, there is also the option of inter-library loan. They don't have all the movies I want to see, but they have enough to keep me happy. Especially when you consider the price, free for seven days. I can put in a request online and the library calls me when it is ready for pick up. You can't beat that for convenience.
Enter the library. It turns out or local library has quite a collection of DVDs. Even better, there is also the option of inter-library loan. They don't have all the movies I want to see, but they have enough to keep me happy. Especially when you consider the price, free for seven days. I can put in a request online and the library calls me when it is ready for pick up. You can't beat that for convenience.
Monday, July 07, 2008
What Kinda of Parent are You?
I think I'm becoming the unexpected Mom according to at least one of my sons' friends.
I asked Nate's friend how his Fourth went. He was a bit surprised that I asked, I guess he's not used to adults asking his opinion. Anyway he replied that it was good, they did some fun things and saw fireworks. My response "it's fun watching things blow up" stunned him. Most Moms would, at least in his experience, never admit such things. But I am the mother of three boys and I'm a bit of a Tom boy and watching stuff go boom is fun. Honestly that why we love Myth Busters so very much. Nate then went off to play at his friends house for the rest of the day.
Around 4:00 Nate came back home along with his friend. They then spent a good 20 minutes messing about on our driveway with their bikes. Which sounds a bit boring unless you know our driveway. It's a gravel drive and over the years it has developed bumps in it. Our ultimate goal is to pave the whole mess, but for now we have a bumpy driveway. Nate has discovered that he can jump the bumps with his bike. The boys had a terrific time going back and forth over the bumps. I even shot a little video of Nate in action.
I think his friend was a bit surprised that I allowed, almost encouraged borderline dangerous behavior. However, in my defense, the jumps really weren't that big and they were both wearing helmets. When it was finely time for Nate's friend to go I asked him if he liked our driveway. He thought it was pretty cool.
I asked Nate's friend how his Fourth went. He was a bit surprised that I asked, I guess he's not used to adults asking his opinion. Anyway he replied that it was good, they did some fun things and saw fireworks. My response "it's fun watching things blow up" stunned him. Most Moms would, at least in his experience, never admit such things. But I am the mother of three boys and I'm a bit of a Tom boy and watching stuff go boom is fun. Honestly that why we love Myth Busters so very much. Nate then went off to play at his friends house for the rest of the day.
Around 4:00 Nate came back home along with his friend. They then spent a good 20 minutes messing about on our driveway with their bikes. Which sounds a bit boring unless you know our driveway. It's a gravel drive and over the years it has developed bumps in it. Our ultimate goal is to pave the whole mess, but for now we have a bumpy driveway. Nate has discovered that he can jump the bumps with his bike. The boys had a terrific time going back and forth over the bumps. I even shot a little video of Nate in action.
I think his friend was a bit surprised that I allowed, almost encouraged borderline dangerous behavior. However, in my defense, the jumps really weren't that big and they were both wearing helmets. When it was finely time for Nate's friend to go I asked him if he liked our driveway. He thought it was pretty cool.
Sunday, July 06, 2008
Yummy Ribs
This is what the ribs looked like on Friday and I have my friend Google to thank for telling me how to cook them.
The first site I hit was this one, Texas Style BBQ Beef Ribs. It was invaluable for the great pictures and general advice. It was there that I learned about the importance of taking your time, beef ribs need to be slow cooked at about 250 for 6 - 7 hours. From there it was pretty much the seat of my pants.
I decided Thursday night that I really should apply the dry rub and that night and let the ribs sit overnight in the fridge with the rub on. Of course I never did find a dry rub I liked so I had to make my own. After endlessly sifting through many different sites for recipes I found one to my liking that filled my main criteria. It had to only have ingredients I have on hand.
This one fit the bill:
1/2 cup of brown sugar
1/4 paprika (that used up my little jar)
1 tablespoon black pepper
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
The directions accompanying the above were dead simple.
1- It is very important to peel the membrane off of the inside of the rack of beef ribs before starting.
2- Combine all the ingredients in a mixing bowl.
3- Sprinkle the mixture on both sides and rub it in.
4- Grill on medium heat grill for 2-3 hours or until rib meat is tender.*
*I did not actually grill the ribs (*horrors!) Instead I baked them in the oven for 6 and 1/2 hours at 250. I had wrapped them overnight in aluminum foil and placed the packets on jelly roll pans. After an hour of cooking I opened up the packets, but left the ribs on the foil; to contain the mess. During the last couple of hours I brushed on some commercial barbecue sauce. I used Jack Daniel's Original No. 7 Recipe after a great conversion in my local super market with a guy that had tried them all.
After a few hours the kitchen started to smell great. After six hours the ribs were just right. Max passed on them (I think they looked too messy to him), but everybody else enjoyed the ribs. Jake is already begging me to make them again.
The first site I hit was this one, Texas Style BBQ Beef Ribs. It was invaluable for the great pictures and general advice. It was there that I learned about the importance of taking your time, beef ribs need to be slow cooked at about 250 for 6 - 7 hours. From there it was pretty much the seat of my pants.
I decided Thursday night that I really should apply the dry rub and that night and let the ribs sit overnight in the fridge with the rub on. Of course I never did find a dry rub I liked so I had to make my own. After endlessly sifting through many different sites for recipes I found one to my liking that filled my main criteria. It had to only have ingredients I have on hand.
This one fit the bill:
1/2 cup of brown sugar
1/4 paprika (that used up my little jar)
1 tablespoon black pepper
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
The directions accompanying the above were dead simple.
1- It is very important to peel the membrane off of the inside of the rack of beef ribs before starting.
2- Combine all the ingredients in a mixing bowl.
3- Sprinkle the mixture on both sides and rub it in.
4- Grill on medium heat grill for 2-3 hours or until rib meat is tender.*
*I did not actually grill the ribs (*horrors!) Instead I baked them in the oven for 6 and 1/2 hours at 250. I had wrapped them overnight in aluminum foil and placed the packets on jelly roll pans. After an hour of cooking I opened up the packets, but left the ribs on the foil; to contain the mess. During the last couple of hours I brushed on some commercial barbecue sauce. I used Jack Daniel's Original No. 7 Recipe after a great conversion in my local super market with a guy that had tried them all.
After a few hours the kitchen started to smell great. After six hours the ribs were just right. Max passed on them (I think they looked too messy to him), but everybody else enjoyed the ribs. Jake is already begging me to make them again.
Friday, July 04, 2008
Happy Fourth of July
I hope y'all stateside had a good Fourth of July.
Ours was tasty one. The ribs came out great and Meryl brought some very very delicious corn.
The fireworks, alas, were a bust. A line of thunderstorms bulled their way through just as we sat down for dinner a bit after 5:00 pm. The winds were impressive, tossing about the trees and doing some serious damage up by the fireworks site.
Of course we did not know this until we headed up there at 7:30. The roads were blocked and the troopers redirected us away from the show grounds. We didn't know what was up until we found an electronic billboard informing us that the fireworks had been canceled. I was a bit peeved because I did call the special events hot line number and checked the news websites before heading out.
But as I said the food was fabulous. We set off some sparklers outside and had a little show inside when I made Bananas Foster for dessert.
Ours was tasty one. The ribs came out great and Meryl brought some very very delicious corn.
The fireworks, alas, were a bust. A line of thunderstorms bulled their way through just as we sat down for dinner a bit after 5:00 pm. The winds were impressive, tossing about the trees and doing some serious damage up by the fireworks site.
Of course we did not know this until we headed up there at 7:30. The roads were blocked and the troopers redirected us away from the show grounds. We didn't know what was up until we found an electronic billboard informing us that the fireworks had been canceled. I was a bit peeved because I did call the special events hot line number and checked the news websites before heading out.
But as I said the food was fabulous. We set off some sparklers outside and had a little show inside when I made Bananas Foster for dessert.
Thursday, July 03, 2008
Ribs for the Fourth
Normally we just do the basic grill out for the Fourth, but this year I've decided to be daring and try making beef ribs.
The major inspiration for this was, surprise surprise, that the store had them on sale. I don't know exactly what I'm going to do, but it should be interesting. We can always do burgers and dogs if it turns out poorly.
The major inspiration for this was, surprise surprise, that the store had them on sale. I don't know exactly what I'm going to do, but it should be interesting. We can always do burgers and dogs if it turns out poorly.
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
Artist of the Week: Time Line
Nate is this week's artist. He looks so darn cute in this picture. It's hard to see his eyes underneath the shaggy hair, but if you look carefully you can see their sparkle. Mind you, I cut his hair not so long ago and he hated it- In his opinion his hair was far too short.
Anyway, hair cuts side, we are here for art. Specifically a neat little time line I fished out of the huge pile of papers he dragged home.
Last spring Nate's class did a unit called Galleon. The students were grouped into teams. Each team had a ship that they had to pilot across the Atlantic. Part of the assignment was to make a time line summarizing key events in the voyage.
This Nate's time line.
Unfortunately it is a bit small, but if you go here you get a better view of it. I love all the little details in the pictures. It is about a foot and half long, I think Nate did a terrific job in rendering the ships. His teacher liked it as well and the grade ( check plus) reflects that.
Anyway, hair cuts side, we are here for art. Specifically a neat little time line I fished out of the huge pile of papers he dragged home.
Last spring Nate's class did a unit called Galleon. The students were grouped into teams. Each team had a ship that they had to pilot across the Atlantic. Part of the assignment was to make a time line summarizing key events in the voyage.
This Nate's time line.
Unfortunately it is a bit small, but if you go here you get a better view of it. I love all the little details in the pictures. It is about a foot and half long, I think Nate did a terrific job in rendering the ships. His teacher liked it as well and the grade ( check plus) reflects that.
Tuesday, July 01, 2008
Red Boys
Most non-dachshund people have a hard time telling the red boys apart. To me, and those that know John and Dell, it is fairly easy to tell them apart. Heck, when I pat them in the dark I instantly know which dog it is.
The most striking difference is their size. Both are good sized standards that dwarf the far more common miniature. (A mini is defined as a a full grown dachshund that is a eleven pounds or less. My boys weigh in at 27 and 25 pounds apiece.) John is a fairly robust 27 lbs with thicker, hound-like features. He is of the old fashioned hunting type. Dell is the lighter of the two and has the more elegant type favored today.
Interestingly their personalities do not match their body types. Dell, my elegant dog, is a complete oaf. He bounces around with absolutely no regard for what surrounds him. Today for example Nate was on the floor stretched out next to the sofa. I was happily reading a book while on the sofa. At some point I called over Dell. He dashed over, trampling Nate and then proceeded to bounce all over Nate while I patted him. Nate thought it was hilarious that Dell was oblivious to what he was doing to Nate.
After a bit I got up and let out the dogs. Dell paused for his half brother to reach the deck, then launched himself onto the lawn and careened about. John meanwhile, calmly surveyed the yard and then sedately descended the few steps to the lawn.
Once we wee all back inside Nate asked me why does John always looks out before going down the steps. I thought for a bit and replied that John likes to check out what is going on before he gets involved. Which is true for John in general. Our big red boy is far more aware of what he is doing than Dell. John almost never bounces on Nate. When we repeated the set up we had with Dell (Nate stretched out on the floor by my side), John only stepped on Nate once and that was only because Nate got in his way. John would carefully stretch out above Nate so I could reach him. And then, when he was done, would neatly sit back down without touching Nate. It was amazing to watch the precision of John's movements. Far different from his manically happy half-brother, Dell.
It just goes to show you really can't judge a book by its cover.
The most striking difference is their size. Both are good sized standards that dwarf the far more common miniature. (A mini is defined as a a full grown dachshund that is a eleven pounds or less. My boys weigh in at 27 and 25 pounds apiece.) John is a fairly robust 27 lbs with thicker, hound-like features. He is of the old fashioned hunting type. Dell is the lighter of the two and has the more elegant type favored today.
Interestingly their personalities do not match their body types. Dell, my elegant dog, is a complete oaf. He bounces around with absolutely no regard for what surrounds him. Today for example Nate was on the floor stretched out next to the sofa. I was happily reading a book while on the sofa. At some point I called over Dell. He dashed over, trampling Nate and then proceeded to bounce all over Nate while I patted him. Nate thought it was hilarious that Dell was oblivious to what he was doing to Nate.
After a bit I got up and let out the dogs. Dell paused for his half brother to reach the deck, then launched himself onto the lawn and careened about. John meanwhile, calmly surveyed the yard and then sedately descended the few steps to the lawn.
Once we wee all back inside Nate asked me why does John always looks out before going down the steps. I thought for a bit and replied that John likes to check out what is going on before he gets involved. Which is true for John in general. Our big red boy is far more aware of what he is doing than Dell. John almost never bounces on Nate. When we repeated the set up we had with Dell (Nate stretched out on the floor by my side), John only stepped on Nate once and that was only because Nate got in his way. John would carefully stretch out above Nate so I could reach him. And then, when he was done, would neatly sit back down without touching Nate. It was amazing to watch the precision of John's movements. Far different from his manically happy half-brother, Dell.
It just goes to show you really can't judge a book by its cover.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Tennis For Everyone
But Not So Much With Biking
So far so good with the tennis lessons. All four seem to be having a good time. In fact Jake is a bit disappointed that he'll be missing eight days of lessons while he attends the Governor's school.
Biking is another story. Jake and Nate are loving the freedom of going back and forth on their own. Max and Rebecca are having a tougher time. Max is a real trooper and manfully works his way up the hill. Rebecca not so much. She has resigned herself to biking to and from the courts, but she still complains a fair amount. I complimented her the other day at dinner at how she has gotten better biking home and she replied "Yes, I don't whine as much now." Which was utterly hilarious and completely true.
So far so good with the tennis lessons. All four seem to be having a good time. In fact Jake is a bit disappointed that he'll be missing eight days of lessons while he attends the Governor's school.
Biking is another story. Jake and Nate are loving the freedom of going back and forth on their own. Max and Rebecca are having a tougher time. Max is a real trooper and manfully works his way up the hill. Rebecca not so much. She has resigned herself to biking to and from the courts, but she still complains a fair amount. I complimented her the other day at dinner at how she has gotten better biking home and she replied "Yes, I don't whine as much now." Which was utterly hilarious and completely true.
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Jake's Big Weekend
I really intended to post this Sunday, but at a storm blew through and we lost power that night. So I'm putting this up, but dating it yesterday.
That out of the way, Jake had a big weekend starting last Thursday. We have finally figured out the whole summer birthday thing. Have the party during the week. Too many people take off during the weekends, either coming or going on vacation. By having the party on a weekday, let's say for example a Thursday, there is a good chance that you'll get a decent amount of guests.
It took Jake a long time to make up his mind, but a week and half before the big day he settled on who, what and where. Most of the kids could make it and they all had a great time playing laser tag. This of course required a cake and I happily obliged with my classic 1-2-3 cake with chocolate frosting. It's not Jake's favorite cake, but it is one that his guests would most likely enjoy.
The following day, Friday, we brought cupcakes down to tennis lessons. Jake rarely gets to bring cupcakes to school for his birthday (since school ends two weeks beforehand) and I thought it would nice for him to bring a treat. I made orange cupcakes and piped a white lines on top to make them look like tennis balls and they were a big hit with the kids and the instructor.
All that is left is the big day itself, Sunday.
Jake wanted spinach pies for dinner and, of course, cheesecake for desert. Both were easy enough requests. I'm more than happy to pick up something as healthy as a spinach pie for dinner and cheesecake is always a good idea. But the end result of all this celebration is a fridge full of desserts. I guess it is a bit excessive making three desserts for one birthday boy, but what's the fun of being able to bake if you can't spoil your children on their birthdays?
That out of the way, Jake had a big weekend starting last Thursday. We have finally figured out the whole summer birthday thing. Have the party during the week. Too many people take off during the weekends, either coming or going on vacation. By having the party on a weekday, let's say for example a Thursday, there is a good chance that you'll get a decent amount of guests.
It took Jake a long time to make up his mind, but a week and half before the big day he settled on who, what and where. Most of the kids could make it and they all had a great time playing laser tag. This of course required a cake and I happily obliged with my classic 1-2-3 cake with chocolate frosting. It's not Jake's favorite cake, but it is one that his guests would most likely enjoy.
The following day, Friday, we brought cupcakes down to tennis lessons. Jake rarely gets to bring cupcakes to school for his birthday (since school ends two weeks beforehand) and I thought it would nice for him to bring a treat. I made orange cupcakes and piped a white lines on top to make them look like tennis balls and they were a big hit with the kids and the instructor.
All that is left is the big day itself, Sunday.
Jake wanted spinach pies for dinner and, of course, cheesecake for desert. Both were easy enough requests. I'm more than happy to pick up something as healthy as a spinach pie for dinner and cheesecake is always a good idea. But the end result of all this celebration is a fridge full of desserts. I guess it is a bit excessive making three desserts for one birthday boy, but what's the fun of being able to bake if you can't spoil your children on their birthdays?
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Chopin and CF
It has long been thought that Frédéric Chopin died of tuberculosis. A very common aliment in the 18th century. However, researchers have been reexamining Chopin's life and the possible causes of his death and a new diagnoses has been brought forward. He might have suffered from Cystic Fibrosis.
Here is the abstract from the article in The Journal of Applied Genetics.
CF wasn't definitively described until the late 1930's, but it certainly had been around long before then. It also present a broad range of affects and cases can range from mild to severe. Max, for example, is on the more severe end of the scale. His lung function is excellent (117% when compared to a a normal, unaffected child) but, he is completely unable to digest most foods. It is only through an incredible amount of drugs and therapies that he is able to thrive. Before he was diagnosed he was literally starving to death. He would eat vast quantities of food and yet he lagged far behind his twin sister in growth.
Finding out whether or not Chopin suffered from CF really wouldn't change much, but it would mean a great deal to those who do suffer from it. It would show that it is possible to leave your mark on the world despite what set backs CF can present to you. And maybe it might just inspire Max to keep with piano.
Here is the abstract from the article in The Journal of Applied Genetics.
Abstract: Fr̩d̩ric Chopin Рa great Polish composer and pianist Рsuffered from
a chronic disease. Both during his life and after death physicians disagreed on the subject
of Chopin’s diagnosis. His contemporaries accepted the diagnosis of a disease
common in the 18th century – tuberculosis. Description of new clinical entities provoked
new dilemmas in the 20th century. In our opinion the most tenable seems to be
the diagnosis of cystic fibrosis. In this work we present F. Chopin’s case history
and discuss cons and pron for cystic fibrosis as the cause of F. Chopin’s suffering
and death.
Key words: Chopin, cystic fibrosis, genetics, late diagnosis.
CF wasn't definitively described until the late 1930's, but it certainly had been around long before then. It also present a broad range of affects and cases can range from mild to severe. Max, for example, is on the more severe end of the scale. His lung function is excellent (117% when compared to a a normal, unaffected child) but, he is completely unable to digest most foods. It is only through an incredible amount of drugs and therapies that he is able to thrive. Before he was diagnosed he was literally starving to death. He would eat vast quantities of food and yet he lagged far behind his twin sister in growth.
Finding out whether or not Chopin suffered from CF really wouldn't change much, but it would mean a great deal to those who do suffer from it. It would show that it is possible to leave your mark on the world despite what set backs CF can present to you. And maybe it might just inspire Max to keep with piano.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Artist of the Week: War and Peace
Max is a complex little guy. He gives the best hugs and loves to tell jokes. Mind you the jokes more often than not miss the mark, but when they hit the mark they are genuinely funny. He is my little snuggle bunny, but don't call him that. He is just Max and he gets very mad if you add anything to his name.
When properly motivated he produces some very fine art.
On the last day of school he brought home a large tube of rolled up art projects. One of them was a collage inspired by Monet's Water Lily Pond and Bridge. I think it is a lovely collage. When I asked him about it he told me that when he made it he organized the lilies like battleships. In fact, he even shaped the tissue paper to resemble ships, but they all got squashed down when he brought the picture home.
Which brings me to another part of Max. Like many little boys he is fascinated by all things associated with war. He loved watching the history channel with his brothers before Comcast took it away. I'll often find my three boys piled up together looking at the latest World War II book we have brought home from the library.
This fascination is evident in his art. The pictures that he draws at home on whatever pieces of paper he get his hands on are inevitable some sort of battle. Originally this drawings were inspired by Star Wars, now they feature planes and tanks. This particular drawing was made at the ball field during either Jake or Nate's last game.
It is a pretty classic example of his work. The people are stick figures, but the vehicles are fairly detailed. To really appreciate his work you need to present when he draws. He often will give a running narration of the battle as he sets it to paper. Planes are drawn and then blown up. Tanks are shown moving from one place to another. It is all rather complicated, just like Max.
When properly motivated he produces some very fine art.
On the last day of school he brought home a large tube of rolled up art projects. One of them was a collage inspired by Monet's Water Lily Pond and Bridge. I think it is a lovely collage. When I asked him about it he told me that when he made it he organized the lilies like battleships. In fact, he even shaped the tissue paper to resemble ships, but they all got squashed down when he brought the picture home.
Which brings me to another part of Max. Like many little boys he is fascinated by all things associated with war. He loved watching the history channel with his brothers before Comcast took it away. I'll often find my three boys piled up together looking at the latest World War II book we have brought home from the library.
This fascination is evident in his art. The pictures that he draws at home on whatever pieces of paper he get his hands on are inevitable some sort of battle. Originally this drawings were inspired by Star Wars, now they feature planes and tanks. This particular drawing was made at the ball field during either Jake or Nate's last game.
It is a pretty classic example of his work. The people are stick figures, but the vehicles are fairly detailed. To really appreciate his work you need to present when he draws. He often will give a running narration of the battle as he sets it to paper. Planes are drawn and then blown up. Tanks are shown moving from one place to another. It is all rather complicated, just like Max.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Freedom and Trust
Jake and Nate have gained new levels of freedom this summer. I let them bike to the pool and spend a little time at home without me.
Jake will be 12 at the end of the week and the two of them together are fairly reliable. They have earned my trust and I think they are ready. So in the morning I take Max and Rebecca down to tennis lessons and 45 minutes later I call home to tell the boys to head on down.
They love their newfound freedom. Of course this could all change if they don't behave, but they are good boys and they know what I giveth I can also taketh away.
And I must say it is nice not having to schlep everybody back and forth to the pool.
Jake will be 12 at the end of the week and the two of them together are fairly reliable. They have earned my trust and I think they are ready. So in the morning I take Max and Rebecca down to tennis lessons and 45 minutes later I call home to tell the boys to head on down.
They love their newfound freedom. Of course this could all change if they don't behave, but they are good boys and they know what I giveth I can also taketh away.
And I must say it is nice not having to schlep everybody back and forth to the pool.
Monday, June 23, 2008
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Yet Another Busy Weekend
To say we had a busy weekend would be an understatement. This weekend we had two dog shows and four birthday parties.
Luckily the timing worked out. The dog shows were in the morning and, after a bit of fortuitous last minute rescheduling, the parties were all neatly spaced. Originally the two parties Nate was invited to were on at the same time and, ironically, at the same location. But due to baseball games, one of the parties got bumped back several hours and Nate got to go to both.
As for the dog shows, Saturday was my club's specialty show. Since I'm the president of the club I elected not to show. In reality I'm a nobody and in this particular case AKC rules don't forbid me, but I felt that ethically it would be best that I sit this one out. instead I got to watch the show and see Dell's sister Trudy finish her championship. Today, however, I was free to drag my boys out to the show. I drafted Jake to be my dog holder and possibly show Dell if needed.
Meryl was ring side and snapped few pictures of me in action. In this picture I'm with John, going down and back for the judge. At first John was a bit wild, but after a bit he did settle down. I have a big smile on my face because I was happy with John and pleased that he defeated his competition in his class. However, this meant Jake had to show Dell in winner's class.
Jake was a bit overwhelmed at first. He was standing just outside the ring, unsure about what to do. I had to call him in the ring and then he snapped out of his fog.
Both dogs were a bit on the exuberant side. We got them to stand nicely for the judge, but it wasn't enough. The miniature won the points and not us. I got the impression that this particular judge favored push button dogs. He liked little robots going around in well behaved circles. Happy goof balls need not apply. I wasn't too surprised, as I had been warned before hand that this particular judge could be interesting. I won't waste my time or my money with him again.
Luckily the timing worked out. The dog shows were in the morning and, after a bit of fortuitous last minute rescheduling, the parties were all neatly spaced. Originally the two parties Nate was invited to were on at the same time and, ironically, at the same location. But due to baseball games, one of the parties got bumped back several hours and Nate got to go to both.
As for the dog shows, Saturday was my club's specialty show. Since I'm the president of the club I elected not to show. In reality I'm a nobody and in this particular case AKC rules don't forbid me, but I felt that ethically it would be best that I sit this one out. instead I got to watch the show and see Dell's sister Trudy finish her championship. Today, however, I was free to drag my boys out to the show. I drafted Jake to be my dog holder and possibly show Dell if needed.
Meryl was ring side and snapped few pictures of me in action. In this picture I'm with John, going down and back for the judge. At first John was a bit wild, but after a bit he did settle down. I have a big smile on my face because I was happy with John and pleased that he defeated his competition in his class. However, this meant Jake had to show Dell in winner's class.
Jake was a bit overwhelmed at first. He was standing just outside the ring, unsure about what to do. I had to call him in the ring and then he snapped out of his fog.
Both dogs were a bit on the exuberant side. We got them to stand nicely for the judge, but it wasn't enough. The miniature won the points and not us. I got the impression that this particular judge favored push button dogs. He liked little robots going around in well behaved circles. Happy goof balls need not apply. I wasn't too surprised, as I had been warned before hand that this particular judge could be interesting. I won't waste my time or my money with him again.
Friday, June 20, 2008
I Want to Ride My Bicycle
It has been three and half weeks since I started biking again and I have only missed two days. I have lengthened out the ride to just under 5 miles and I'm still having fun.
I'm not ready to do any races, all I want to do is ride my bike.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Nature, Red in Tooth and Claw
I was out by the shed today, cleaning around the doors. The dogs had followed me out and were poking about the woods, John in particular was rooting about the leaf litter with a great deal of enthusiasm. After a bit he pulled back and starting barking at what he had found. I ignored him at first, thinking it was another stupid deer. But it was a different sort of bark, not his usual all out barkapalooza for deer (for some reason John is deeply offended by deer).
I looked over and asked him "what's up boy, did ya find a snake?"
He continued barking and looking over at me so I decided to check it out.
It turned out I was not too far off. It was indeed a snake with the added bonus of the snake eating a toad. To spare the snake phobic out there here is a link to the picture I ultimately took of the snake and toad. So don't blame me if you don't like the picture, it's your own fault if you click on the link.
Anyhoo, I had haul John inside in order to get him to quiet down. I felt bad for the toad, but that's life. I'm just happy it was the nonpoisonous Eastern Garter snake. I found found a dead Copperhead just the other day in front of our neighbor's house. What John found in our woods is far more preferable.
I looked over and asked him "what's up boy, did ya find a snake?"
He continued barking and looking over at me so I decided to check it out.
It turned out I was not too far off. It was indeed a snake with the added bonus of the snake eating a toad. To spare the snake phobic out there here is a link to the picture I ultimately took of the snake and toad. So don't blame me if you don't like the picture, it's your own fault if you click on the link.
Anyhoo, I had haul John inside in order to get him to quiet down. I felt bad for the toad, but that's life. I'm just happy it was the nonpoisonous Eastern Garter snake. I found found a dead Copperhead just the other day in front of our neighbor's house. What John found in our woods is far more preferable.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Artist of the Week: Picture Stories
This week's artist is Miss Rebecca.
T-ball has long since ended , but this is a terrific shot of her in the dugout. You can see her bright smile. She had a great time this season. She claimed all she liked was hitting the ball and getting the end of game snack, but I could she that she was having fun with her teammates in the dugout and was very focused in the field. But enough about t-ball.
Last week she brought home a ton of papers from school and I finally got around to emptying her backpack just the other day. Amongst the jumble of worksheets and pictures I found four sheets of paper neatly paper clipped together. I uploaded all four pictures, so if you click on the picture I posted here it will lead you to the picture set in my photo stream.
The pictures are utterly charming. Each sheet had an illustration and a few lines describing what is going on in the picture. The spelling is creative, but I was able to puzzle out the gist of the stories.
It's hard to say which one was my favorite. I really like the dog walking picture. The dog is obviously a dachshund and Dell, of the eternally wagging tail, was clearly the inspiration. The bird in the rocket is also wonderful and has a far more involved storyline. I wasn't able to figure out the end, but that is not a big deal. The dog playing fetch is also fairly involved and it was hard to decipher the storyline. Then, of course, there is the self portrait of Rebecca picking flowers.
They are all beautiful and I'm really impressed by the quality of her writing. Rebecca has come a long way this year and I have credit her teacher for teaching my little girl so much.
T-ball has long since ended , but this is a terrific shot of her in the dugout. You can see her bright smile. She had a great time this season. She claimed all she liked was hitting the ball and getting the end of game snack, but I could she that she was having fun with her teammates in the dugout and was very focused in the field. But enough about t-ball.
Last week she brought home a ton of papers from school and I finally got around to emptying her backpack just the other day. Amongst the jumble of worksheets and pictures I found four sheets of paper neatly paper clipped together. I uploaded all four pictures, so if you click on the picture I posted here it will lead you to the picture set in my photo stream.
The pictures are utterly charming. Each sheet had an illustration and a few lines describing what is going on in the picture. The spelling is creative, but I was able to puzzle out the gist of the stories.
It's hard to say which one was my favorite. I really like the dog walking picture. The dog is obviously a dachshund and Dell, of the eternally wagging tail, was clearly the inspiration. The bird in the rocket is also wonderful and has a far more involved storyline. I wasn't able to figure out the end, but that is not a big deal. The dog playing fetch is also fairly involved and it was hard to decipher the storyline. Then, of course, there is the self portrait of Rebecca picking flowers.
They are all beautiful and I'm really impressed by the quality of her writing. Rebecca has come a long way this year and I have credit her teacher for teaching my little girl so much.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Cake and a Spare
As y'all know by now I like to bake. When ever a cake is needed (and even when it isn't) I'll make one.
So for me the end of any sports season means it is time to get baking.
Yesterday Nate's team had its end of the season party. It was a nice low key affair held at my neighborhoods pool. Mind you the weather did get a bit dicey a first. There was a rumble of thunder just before hand that necessitated the closing of the pool for an hour. Normally we would have been asked to clear out, but because I had pitched a tent out back in the grassy area we were allowed to stay. After a big gust of wind that almost blew away the tent and a brief sun shower, the skies cleared and we were able to enjoy our party. A very nice side effect of the weather was that swim team practice ended early and the rest of the pool cleared out. We ended up having a private pool party.
The cake I made for the party was a big hit with the team. Not only was it delicious, but the boys loved having their names on top. After many, many end of season parties I have learned that nothing makes a child happier than having his or her name written on a cake. I knew they would like the cake, but I was a wee bit concerned about quantity. The big sheet cake I made should be enough, however I decided to hedge my bet. I made an emergency back up cake. If we ran out of the big cake I could pull out the spare. It was a snap to make and I was planning on making something for my dog meeting on Tuesday (it was a member's birthday last weekend and I thought it would be a nice thing to do). Either way the cake would be eaten.
So that is why there were two cakes in the garage fridge.
So for me the end of any sports season means it is time to get baking.
Yesterday Nate's team had its end of the season party. It was a nice low key affair held at my neighborhoods pool. Mind you the weather did get a bit dicey a first. There was a rumble of thunder just before hand that necessitated the closing of the pool for an hour. Normally we would have been asked to clear out, but because I had pitched a tent out back in the grassy area we were allowed to stay. After a big gust of wind that almost blew away the tent and a brief sun shower, the skies cleared and we were able to enjoy our party. A very nice side effect of the weather was that swim team practice ended early and the rest of the pool cleared out. We ended up having a private pool party.
The cake I made for the party was a big hit with the team. Not only was it delicious, but the boys loved having their names on top. After many, many end of season parties I have learned that nothing makes a child happier than having his or her name written on a cake. I knew they would like the cake, but I was a wee bit concerned about quantity. The big sheet cake I made should be enough, however I decided to hedge my bet. I made an emergency back up cake. If we ran out of the big cake I could pull out the spare. It was a snap to make and I was planning on making something for my dog meeting on Tuesday (it was a member's birthday last weekend and I thought it would be a nice thing to do). Either way the cake would be eaten.
So that is why there were two cakes in the garage fridge.
Monday, June 16, 2008
The Last Game
On Saturday was our last baseball game of the season.
Jake's team, the Braves, had also made it to the championship game. They were up against their main rivals and got to play them Friday night. The Cubs just barely won (one more inning and I think our boys would have pulled it off) and forced a second game.
It was, again, brutally hot out and the game was at noon. Jake's team got to be home and their best pitcher was once again eligible to play (there are strict pitch count rules and he was on mandatory rest after his last outing).
The game was a close one.
We started out with a bang, but the Cubs were no slouches. They surged ahead, but we were almost able to catch them. We lost by just one run. Most of the boys were crushed, but not Jake. He was happy to have made to the championship games. He had a good game, he made a few good plays and a decent hit or two. And for once he had been on a winning team.
The Braves had dominated the regular season and had been undefeated in the playoffs until the the championship games. They had beaten the Cubs in a close match earlier, but in the end they just couldn't quite put them away.
Jake's team, the Braves, had also made it to the championship game. They were up against their main rivals and got to play them Friday night. The Cubs just barely won (one more inning and I think our boys would have pulled it off) and forced a second game.
It was, again, brutally hot out and the game was at noon. Jake's team got to be home and their best pitcher was once again eligible to play (there are strict pitch count rules and he was on mandatory rest after his last outing).
The game was a close one.
We started out with a bang, but the Cubs were no slouches. They surged ahead, but we were almost able to catch them. We lost by just one run. Most of the boys were crushed, but not Jake. He was happy to have made to the championship games. He had a good game, he made a few good plays and a decent hit or two. And for once he had been on a winning team.
The Braves had dominated the regular season and had been undefeated in the playoffs until the the championship games. They had beaten the Cubs in a close match earlier, but in the end they just couldn't quite put them away.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Happy Father's Day
This goes out to an all round great dad. Larry loves our kids and you can see they love him too.
Friday, June 13, 2008
Minor Champions
Last night was Nate's big championship game.
They were able to defeat the other team the previous night and force the second game.
And what a game it was. Our boys duked it out with the Orioles until they reached an unsurmountable lead in the fifth inning. The most amazing part was Nate.
He had been playing catcher in 100 degree weather and was still focused and making big plays at home plate. He is the team's best catcher and that was the position he played 24 1/3 innings out of the 29 innings of the playoffs. The rest of the time he was either shortstop (two innings) or pitcher (2 2/3). And to make it even more incredible the other team could not get a single hit off of him when he pitched.
In fact he pitched the last two innings of the final game. During the last inning he struck out two and caught the final out.
As I said to Nate, "Honey you own home plate."
This got a shy little smile and he ducked his head, pleased that I noticed what he is capable of doing. But of course Nate is still Nate. And when he wasn't out on the field he would inevitably be found in the bucket.
In the dugout there would be a large bucket for the balls. The bucket would normally be positioned near the exit to the main part of the field. Nate loved to sit not on the bucket, but inside the bucket. He evened got the nick name "bucket-boy."
He'd happily sit the the bucket watching his teammates bat. Rocking back and forth, spinning around and just being silly. It didn't strike me as a particularly comfortable seat, but what do I know.
Either way he still looked pretty darn cute.
Anyway, it was a great game that kept us riveted in our seats until the final out.
Right after the game ended the league officials brought out the trophies and awarded them out on the field. The stands all poured onto the field to watch (and photograph!) the presentation.
It was quite a night.
They were able to defeat the other team the previous night and force the second game.
And what a game it was. Our boys duked it out with the Orioles until they reached an unsurmountable lead in the fifth inning. The most amazing part was Nate.
He had been playing catcher in 100 degree weather and was still focused and making big plays at home plate. He is the team's best catcher and that was the position he played 24 1/3 innings out of the 29 innings of the playoffs. The rest of the time he was either shortstop (two innings) or pitcher (2 2/3). And to make it even more incredible the other team could not get a single hit off of him when he pitched.
In fact he pitched the last two innings of the final game. During the last inning he struck out two and caught the final out.
As I said to Nate, "Honey you own home plate."
This got a shy little smile and he ducked his head, pleased that I noticed what he is capable of doing. But of course Nate is still Nate. And when he wasn't out on the field he would inevitably be found in the bucket.
In the dugout there would be a large bucket for the balls. The bucket would normally be positioned near the exit to the main part of the field. Nate loved to sit not on the bucket, but inside the bucket. He evened got the nick name "bucket-boy."
He'd happily sit the the bucket watching his teammates bat. Rocking back and forth, spinning around and just being silly. It didn't strike me as a particularly comfortable seat, but what do I know.
Either way he still looked pretty darn cute.
Anyway, it was a great game that kept us riveted in our seats until the final out.
Right after the game ended the league officials brought out the trophies and awarded them out on the field. The stands all poured onto the field to watch (and photograph!) the presentation.
It was quite a night.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Papa Dell
Our silly little Delly Belly became a father for the second time.
This litter has four pups, two black and tan girls and two red boys. We will not be getting any of them, but it is nice to hear about them.
Dell is such a silly and sweet boy, it is nice to see his line being carried on. There are high hopes for this litter. One pup from his previous litter, Indigo, has been really tearing up the show circuit.
I really should get serious about showing this boy.
This litter has four pups, two black and tan girls and two red boys. We will not be getting any of them, but it is nice to hear about them.
Dell is such a silly and sweet boy, it is nice to see his line being carried on. There are high hopes for this litter. One pup from his previous litter, Indigo, has been really tearing up the show circuit.
I really should get serious about showing this boy.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Artist of the Week: Academic Excellence
Today was the Sixth Grade Award ceremony over at Jake's middle school. A notice had been sent home last week inviting us to attend since Jake was to receive an award. What the award was for was not revealed and it was requested that I keep the knowledge of the award secret from Jake. The organizers want the kids to be surprised.
Right, I'm to keep this secret from a very smart and inquisitive kid. The same kid that was given an envelope (at least it was sealed) to take home to his parents and bring back a reply.
We just settled on leaving the mystery of what the award was to be and left it at that.
However we had a good idea of what it was going to be about. Jake had scored a perfect 600 on all three of his SOL's this year and had at least a B or better grades.
And that was exactly what he got.
Jake got an award for being on the distinguished Honor Roll (I'm not sure what that means) and a certificate for each of his perfect SOL scores. The really neat part was that he was the only kid to get all three scores perfect 600s. Not too shabby.
He is one very smart cookie.
Right, I'm to keep this secret from a very smart and inquisitive kid. The same kid that was given an envelope (at least it was sealed) to take home to his parents and bring back a reply.
We just settled on leaving the mystery of what the award was to be and left it at that.
However we had a good idea of what it was going to be about. Jake had scored a perfect 600 on all three of his SOL's this year and had at least a B or better grades.
And that was exactly what he got.
Jake got an award for being on the distinguished Honor Roll (I'm not sure what that means) and a certificate for each of his perfect SOL scores. The really neat part was that he was the only kid to get all three scores perfect 600s. Not too shabby.
He is one very smart cookie.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
10 Kibble Diet
I like to keep our dogs trim.
They are, supposedly (ie I need to actually enter them in shows), show dogs and must be kept nice and trim. I also want to avoid a whole host of health problems that dogs get when they are obese. Dachshunds are prone to back problems and excess weight increases the likelihood of something going wrong.
I take pride in the fact that I have never gotten the fat dog speech at the Vets. Mind you, my dogs have gotten a bit plump at times. This always seems to correspond with when I have kids in highchairs. But, I have always been able to take the weight off.
John and Dell, however, have a different view about what is their correct weight.
This weekend they took matters in their own paws and decided to supplement their diet. Somehow the closet holding their food was let open. The boys then happily raided the food bag. I didn't realize what was going on until I saw Dell guiltily skulking about.
Both boys looked bloated.
It looks like they had gorged on several days worth of food in the span of less than an hour.
So now both dogs are on what I call the 10 kibble diet for the next couple of days. They'll get just token meals until I think they are ready to go back to full rations.
They are, supposedly (ie I need to actually enter them in shows), show dogs and must be kept nice and trim. I also want to avoid a whole host of health problems that dogs get when they are obese. Dachshunds are prone to back problems and excess weight increases the likelihood of something going wrong.
I take pride in the fact that I have never gotten the fat dog speech at the Vets. Mind you, my dogs have gotten a bit plump at times. This always seems to correspond with when I have kids in highchairs. But, I have always been able to take the weight off.
John and Dell, however, have a different view about what is their correct weight.
This weekend they took matters in their own paws and decided to supplement their diet. Somehow the closet holding their food was let open. The boys then happily raided the food bag. I didn't realize what was going on until I saw Dell guiltily skulking about.
Both boys looked bloated.
It looks like they had gorged on several days worth of food in the span of less than an hour.
So now both dogs are on what I call the 10 kibble diet for the next couple of days. They'll get just token meals until I think they are ready to go back to full rations.
Monday, June 09, 2008
Little Tomatoes
Last Thursday Rebecca excitedly announced to me that we now have some baby tomatoes. I went outside and lo and behold we indeed have tomatoes.
The Roma variety (pictured here) has much larger tomatoes than the Big Beef (about the size of a marble). I know I'll be getting regular updates from my little tomato lover, Rebecca. We are both eagerly anticipating our first home grown tomato of the season.
The Roma variety (pictured here) has much larger tomatoes than the Big Beef (about the size of a marble). I know I'll be getting regular updates from my little tomato lover, Rebecca. We are both eagerly anticipating our first home grown tomato of the season.
Sunday, June 08, 2008
Too Hot
Yesterday Jake and Nate had play off games. Nate's baseball game was at noon and Jake's was right after at 2:00 pm. I spent the day shuttling kids back and forth because it was to hot for them to just hang out at the field. In fact the temp was measured on the field during Nate's game at about 102 F.
I even snapped a picture of the car's thermometer. It was truly ghastly outside and it well be even worse today.
Both boys were fine. We pushed water on them and made sure they kept cool, quite and hydrated. Nate's team lost, which is fine. It is a double elimination tournament and it was their first lost. As for Jake's team, they kicked butt. They only had 9 kids show up and they won 11 to 3. And according to Jake, they went through 200 cold towels.
Hopefully the temps will be better later in the week.
I even snapped a picture of the car's thermometer. It was truly ghastly outside and it well be even worse today.
Both boys were fine. We pushed water on them and made sure they kept cool, quite and hydrated. Nate's team lost, which is fine. It is a double elimination tournament and it was their first lost. As for Jake's team, they kicked butt. They only had 9 kids show up and they won 11 to 3. And according to Jake, they went through 200 cold towels.
Hopefully the temps will be better later in the week.
Friday, June 06, 2008
Did You Get Your Doughnut Today?
According to those fine folks over at Krispy Kreme, today is doughnut day.
I snagged my free one and picked up a dozen so as to spread the joy at home. Admittedly the drive to Krispy Kreme wasn't worth the free doughnut, but I was up in the area to return a book at the Richmond library that was due today.
On a more serious note today is also the 64th anniversary of D-Day. So maybe we should be sending doughnuts to our men and women in the armed forces to celebrate the sacrifices that have been made to give us the freedom to have silly things like doughnut day.
I snagged my free one and picked up a dozen so as to spread the joy at home. Admittedly the drive to Krispy Kreme wasn't worth the free doughnut, but I was up in the area to return a book at the Richmond library that was due today.
On a more serious note today is also the 64th anniversary of D-Day. So maybe we should be sending doughnuts to our men and women in the armed forces to celebrate the sacrifices that have been made to give us the freedom to have silly things like doughnut day.
Thursday, June 05, 2008
I Think I Got My Money's Worth
And then some.
I bought this wading pool almost nine years ago. It was just after we bought this house. We had a little inflatable one, but it wasn't quite enough.
I really got it for Nate. He loved (and still does) getting in the water and splashing about. It was the end of summer when our inflatable pool gave up the ghost, but it was going to be warm for quite a bit longer. I went to a Toys R Us and scooped up their last one. It was steeply discounted and they had to drag it out from the far reaches of the stock area. I wrestled it onto of the van and triumphantly brought it home.
Both of the boys were delighted and all four have played with it every summer. I store it under the deck during the winter and when the occasional hurricane roars through. It is absolutely disgusting when I pull it out, but with a little soap and elbow grease it cleans right up.
I bought this wading pool almost nine years ago. It was just after we bought this house. We had a little inflatable one, but it wasn't quite enough.
I really got it for Nate. He loved (and still does) getting in the water and splashing about. It was the end of summer when our inflatable pool gave up the ghost, but it was going to be warm for quite a bit longer. I went to a Toys R Us and scooped up their last one. It was steeply discounted and they had to drag it out from the far reaches of the stock area. I wrestled it onto of the van and triumphantly brought it home.
Both of the boys were delighted and all four have played with it every summer. I store it under the deck during the winter and when the occasional hurricane roars through. It is absolutely disgusting when I pull it out, but with a little soap and elbow grease it cleans right up.
Wednesday, June 04, 2008
Artist of the Week: Team Spirit
This week's artist is Max and Rebecca's tt-ball team, the Cubs.
One of the first things Larry did as coach for the t-ball Cubs was to start the tradition of singing "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" before each game with the "the Cubbies" being substituted for "the home team."
This policy was a huge hit with the team and even with a few other team managers. There really is nothing cuter than a bunch of little kids belting out a song.
So here it is, the t-ball Cubbies making Harry Carey proud.
One of the first things Larry did as coach for the t-ball Cubs was to start the tradition of singing "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" before each game with the "the Cubbies" being substituted for "the home team."
This policy was a huge hit with the team and even with a few other team managers. There really is nothing cuter than a bunch of little kids belting out a song.
So here it is, the t-ball Cubbies making Harry Carey proud.
Tuesday, June 03, 2008
It's a Trap
The cable guy showed up (early!) today and figured out what was wrong and fixed it in under 20 minutes.
He had only one question for me:"When did you first get cable."
I was a bit surprised and told him 9 years ago. He then nodded his head and told me he now had a very good idea about what was going on. I probably had a video trap on my line and all he had to do was pull it off. Apparently it was installed when we first got cable and has now given up the ghost. We just have basic cable and the trap was installed to filter out the unwanted (to us) premium channels.
I'm not sure if he installed a new one, it might not even be necessary at the point. I just hope I don't get stuck in the same situation as this person.
He had only one question for me:"When did you first get cable."
I was a bit surprised and told him 9 years ago. He then nodded his head and told me he now had a very good idea about what was going on. I probably had a video trap on my line and all he had to do was pull it off. Apparently it was installed when we first got cable and has now given up the ghost. We just have basic cable and the trap was installed to filter out the unwanted (to us) premium channels.
I'm not sure if he installed a new one, it might not even be necessary at the point. I just hope I don't get stuck in the same situation as this person.
Monday, June 02, 2008
Heroes
OK, I'm a bit late on the bandwagon, but at least I'm here.
Meryl dropped off her DVDs of Heroes a few weeks ago and just know I've gotten around to watching them. She told me that the show was great, but I never got around to it, until now.
Friday we lost our cable tv. Oddly enough we still have high speed internet, which is a far more temperamental beast. After repeated phone calls I got an appointment for tomorrow for a technician to stop by and figure out what is going on. So far the lack of television hasn't been a big deal. The kids mostly watch it when Max is getting nebulized, so now they watch something from our vast DVD collection. I miss the news and weather, but we still have the internets and I can get what I need there.
Last night I was restless and wanted something to watch. I was chatting with Meryl on the phone when I remembered Heroes. I popped in the first disk and then I was hooked. While I was stuck at the house while our road was being repaved and baking a last minute cake I watched the next two disks.
I love the show. From the haunting music to the quirky characters. I'll be polishing off the rest of the disks this week, even after I get my tv channels back.
Dang now I have another show to watch.
Meryl dropped off her DVDs of Heroes a few weeks ago and just know I've gotten around to watching them. She told me that the show was great, but I never got around to it, until now.
Friday we lost our cable tv. Oddly enough we still have high speed internet, which is a far more temperamental beast. After repeated phone calls I got an appointment for tomorrow for a technician to stop by and figure out what is going on. So far the lack of television hasn't been a big deal. The kids mostly watch it when Max is getting nebulized, so now they watch something from our vast DVD collection. I miss the news and weather, but we still have the internets and I can get what I need there.
Last night I was restless and wanted something to watch. I was chatting with Meryl on the phone when I remembered Heroes. I popped in the first disk and then I was hooked. While I was stuck at the house while our road was being repaved and baking a last minute cake I watched the next two disks.
I love the show. From the haunting music to the quirky characters. I'll be polishing off the rest of the disks this week, even after I get my tv channels back.
Dang now I have another show to watch.
Sunday, June 01, 2008
Nothing Says Romance
Like a giant fireball.
Larry and I went out for dinner Saturday night. We are always up for trying another place so he asked around at work for a restaurant recommendation and was pointed towards Juleps.
The place was easy to find and we were even able to snag some free parking. Mind this was after an interminable wait for a simply enormous SUV limo to move out of the way of a side street I had directed Larry to go down. I would like to note that just because you have rented a large limo it does not make you cool, especially if you are very drunk. Find a parking lot to decant yourselves and do not block any side streets. I really don't want to see you, your buddies or the driver paw through a bag's contents to determine if it is just trash.
Anyway, we did make the restaurant on time and had a wonderful meal. The service was excellent as was the food. Oftentimes one dish will stand out either for good or bad, but not this night. I stared with fried green tomatoes served with house made pimento cheese. I wasn't sure about the cheese at first, but after one bite I was converted. My main course, rack of lamb, was equally good. It was plump, juicy and cooked to perfection.
When we were done the waiter brought out the dessert menu. We decided to have the Bananas Foster for two. It was done, as it should be, table side. The waiter did a wonderful job, pausing just before the flambe so that the area could clear a little. The fireball generated by the rum was impressive as was the heat. The dessert itself was luscious. The warm bananas and slightly caramelized sauce melting into the vanilla ice cream. As an added treat the ice cream had been scooped into a chocolate dipped waffle bowl. The dessert is quite a production and well worth it.
Originally we had planned to stay out later, but after such a marvelous meal we decided it would be better just to head back home. It was a lovely evening.
Larry and I went out for dinner Saturday night. We are always up for trying another place so he asked around at work for a restaurant recommendation and was pointed towards Juleps.
The place was easy to find and we were even able to snag some free parking. Mind this was after an interminable wait for a simply enormous SUV limo to move out of the way of a side street I had directed Larry to go down. I would like to note that just because you have rented a large limo it does not make you cool, especially if you are very drunk. Find a parking lot to decant yourselves and do not block any side streets. I really don't want to see you, your buddies or the driver paw through a bag's contents to determine if it is just trash.
Anyway, we did make the restaurant on time and had a wonderful meal. The service was excellent as was the food. Oftentimes one dish will stand out either for good or bad, but not this night. I stared with fried green tomatoes served with house made pimento cheese. I wasn't sure about the cheese at first, but after one bite I was converted. My main course, rack of lamb, was equally good. It was plump, juicy and cooked to perfection.
When we were done the waiter brought out the dessert menu. We decided to have the Bananas Foster for two. It was done, as it should be, table side. The waiter did a wonderful job, pausing just before the flambe so that the area could clear a little. The fireball generated by the rum was impressive as was the heat. The dessert itself was luscious. The warm bananas and slightly caramelized sauce melting into the vanilla ice cream. As an added treat the ice cream had been scooped into a chocolate dipped waffle bowl. The dessert is quite a production and well worth it.
Originally we had planned to stay out later, but after such a marvelous meal we decided it would be better just to head back home. It was a lovely evening.
Friday, May 30, 2008
Sweet Sixteen
Sixteen years ago we said "I do."
It has been a sweet sixteen years and I'd do it again in a heart beat.
It has been a sweet sixteen years and I'd do it again in a heart beat.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Feel the Burn
After 10 plus years of sitting in a box and being moved from house to house, I finally unboxed one of my bikes.
Before children I used to bike a lot. I would even commute to work part of the way on this particular bike. Where I parked was about a mile away from my lab,so I would park my car, pull my bike off of the rack on the trunk and bike the rest of the way to work. It was fun, I save a few bucks on the shuttle service and I didn't have to wait for the bus. I even went as far as subscribing to a bike magazine.
Then we started having kids and moving from state to state. I boxed my two bikes up after Jake turned a year old and haven't ridden since.
This past week I took Nate's bike in for a new inner tube. I know how to change a tube, but I don't have the tools or the interest. I decided to try out a different bike shop than the one we have used before.
Nothing is wrong with the old place, they sell nice bikes, repair almost any type of bike and have every bike oriented gizmo under the sun. But I always felt like they were trying to see just how much they could sell me every time I walked in the door. Up selling was the norm and I got tired of it.
A few weeks-months ago I'd read an article somewhere about bicycle repair shops in the Richmond area. One stood out in the article as being particularly wallet friendly. I couldn't remember the whole article but the shop's name was Bunnyhop. After a bit of poking about on the internet I found them.
Bunnyhop, is just what I wanted. It is tucked in Richmond's fan district amid VCU. They have an incredible turnaround (can you wait an hour?) and they are very inexpensive.
I was so excited I dragged out my mountain bike and hauled it in for them to reassemble. I felt confident that they wouldn't try to pressure me into all sorts of upgrades. And I was right. For $15 I got my bike back.
The first ride was sweet. I'd forgotten how much fun it is to ride. I hate exercising, but this I'll do. I just want to become a bit more fit and be able to eat what I want. I'm starting off slowly, just over 1 1/2 miles a day on a nice rolling stretch of road. Once I get my cadence down and I don't have to keep going through all the gears I'll lengthen my ride. But for now I'm starting to feel the burn and it feels good.
Before children I used to bike a lot. I would even commute to work part of the way on this particular bike. Where I parked was about a mile away from my lab,so I would park my car, pull my bike off of the rack on the trunk and bike the rest of the way to work. It was fun, I save a few bucks on the shuttle service and I didn't have to wait for the bus. I even went as far as subscribing to a bike magazine.
Then we started having kids and moving from state to state. I boxed my two bikes up after Jake turned a year old and haven't ridden since.
This past week I took Nate's bike in for a new inner tube. I know how to change a tube, but I don't have the tools or the interest. I decided to try out a different bike shop than the one we have used before.
Nothing is wrong with the old place, they sell nice bikes, repair almost any type of bike and have every bike oriented gizmo under the sun. But I always felt like they were trying to see just how much they could sell me every time I walked in the door. Up selling was the norm and I got tired of it.
A few weeks-months ago I'd read an article somewhere about bicycle repair shops in the Richmond area. One stood out in the article as being particularly wallet friendly. I couldn't remember the whole article but the shop's name was Bunnyhop. After a bit of poking about on the internet I found them.
Bunnyhop, is just what I wanted. It is tucked in Richmond's fan district amid VCU. They have an incredible turnaround (can you wait an hour?) and they are very inexpensive.
I was so excited I dragged out my mountain bike and hauled it in for them to reassemble. I felt confident that they wouldn't try to pressure me into all sorts of upgrades. And I was right. For $15 I got my bike back.
The first ride was sweet. I'd forgotten how much fun it is to ride. I hate exercising, but this I'll do. I just want to become a bit more fit and be able to eat what I want. I'm starting off slowly, just over 1 1/2 miles a day on a nice rolling stretch of road. Once I get my cadence down and I don't have to keep going through all the gears I'll lengthen my ride. But for now I'm starting to feel the burn and it feels good.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Artist of the Week: Unusual
This week's artist is Max. He had a t-ball game tonight and I got this picture of him in the dugout.
As for this week's art, it is a drawing he brought home from school a few weeks ago. His teacher had passed out to the class two sheets of paper with one letter, a U and a K, on each one. Their assignment was to create a picture incorporating the letter. There were no other limitations. The children were free to do whatever they wanted, they could orient the paper any which way and they did not have to have something starting with the same letter in the picture.
And this is what Max did with the letter U.
It is a volcano with two dinosaurs, a Triceratops and a T. Rex, climbing on its sides. The letter U forms the lip of the volcano and contains the molten rock within.
Max loves dinosaurs and these are his two favorites, the Triceratops being the one nearest and dearest to his heart. I am amazed that his picture did not have his usual complicated battle scene. It is nice to see him branching out into dinosaurs for change. Maybe the title of the project "Unusual U" is what got him to do something a little dbit different.
As for this week's art, it is a drawing he brought home from school a few weeks ago. His teacher had passed out to the class two sheets of paper with one letter, a U and a K, on each one. Their assignment was to create a picture incorporating the letter. There were no other limitations. The children were free to do whatever they wanted, they could orient the paper any which way and they did not have to have something starting with the same letter in the picture.
And this is what Max did with the letter U.
It is a volcano with two dinosaurs, a Triceratops and a T. Rex, climbing on its sides. The letter U forms the lip of the volcano and contains the molten rock within.
Max loves dinosaurs and these are his two favorites, the Triceratops being the one nearest and dearest to his heart. I am amazed that his picture did not have his usual complicated battle scene. It is nice to see him branching out into dinosaurs for change. Maybe the title of the project "Unusual U" is what got him to do something a little dbit different.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Movie Time
This weekend I went to see Iron Man with Meryl. I've been wanting to see it ever since I saw the first trailer a year ago and we needed to find out how kid friendly the movie is.
The movie was fantastic, but not appropriate for my crew.
It is a fantastic movie, but has a well deserved PG-13.
So my two oldest are just going to have to wait until we think they are ready. But for the grown ups out there, go see it now. I've never been a big fan of comic books, I was (and still am) a huge fan of science fiction. But... I have really enjoyed all of the movies that have come out of the genera. I think the main reasons that comic books can translate so well is that the people making the movies are often fans and the comic itself is practically a story board for the movie. Iron Man is no exception. In fact I want to see it again.
The movie was fantastic, but not appropriate for my crew.
It is a fantastic movie, but has a well deserved PG-13.
So my two oldest are just going to have to wait until we think they are ready. But for the grown ups out there, go see it now. I've never been a big fan of comic books, I was (and still am) a huge fan of science fiction. But... I have really enjoyed all of the movies that have come out of the genera. I think the main reasons that comic books can translate so well is that the people making the movies are often fans and the comic itself is practically a story board for the movie. Iron Man is no exception. In fact I want to see it again.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Best Meeting Ever
Last Tuesday I had my monthly dog club meeting. Since I'm the president and the secretary was out sick, I really had to be there. Unfortunately that same night Max and Rebecca's grade was putting on a little show during the big end of the year PTA meeting. So we divided the troops, Larry took the dynamic duo back to school and I took the older two with me to the dog meeting.
The dog club meeting is held over at the Goochland Fire Company #1 in Manakin-Sabot, about 35 minutes away from our house. For once I was the first one there. I stationed the boys on the wall opposite were the meeting would be held and let them have at it with their DS Nintendos. The meeting went very well, we covered a lot of ground in about 45 minutes with not too many sidetracks and the boys were fairly well behaved. Once the meeting was over I waited for everybody else to leave before locking up. In order to lock the room you have to throw the dead bolt on the inside and leave through on of the side doors.
As we crossed the room to leave I opened the door to the rescue bay so the boys could take a peek at the ambulances. None of the crew were visible so I did not let them venture inside. Once out of the building I pointed out the big barbecue smoker they have in back and the squished car. Nate asked about the car and I told him I think it is for practice with the rescue equipment. As we walked over to it we found the crew. They waved us over and asked if we wanted a tour. The boys seemed up for it so we headed on over to the open truck bay.
There were three EMTs (one just got his certification) and two firefighters. They were very happy to have visitors and gave us the absolute best fire station tour ever. For 45 minutes we got an exhaustive rundown on all the vehicles, a tour of the facility, and we got to try on helmets and headsets. We also got to go inside two of the trucks (That's we when the boys got to wear the headsets, Jake got a laugh when he said "Red leader standing by.") and check out the interior of an ambulance. We learned all about the new foam technology they use, the tanker trucks and the thermal imaging device. The jaws of life (big and little) were hauled out along with the cutter (with the admonition to never put your fingers near the business end of the cutter).
It was a blast. We even found out that you can have a birthday party at the picnic table out back.
I think the station crew would have been happy for us to stay longer, but it was late and a school night. The boys were very happy that they went to my dog club meeting.
The dog club meeting is held over at the Goochland Fire Company #1 in Manakin-Sabot, about 35 minutes away from our house. For once I was the first one there. I stationed the boys on the wall opposite were the meeting would be held and let them have at it with their DS Nintendos. The meeting went very well, we covered a lot of ground in about 45 minutes with not too many sidetracks and the boys were fairly well behaved. Once the meeting was over I waited for everybody else to leave before locking up. In order to lock the room you have to throw the dead bolt on the inside and leave through on of the side doors.
As we crossed the room to leave I opened the door to the rescue bay so the boys could take a peek at the ambulances. None of the crew were visible so I did not let them venture inside. Once out of the building I pointed out the big barbecue smoker they have in back and the squished car. Nate asked about the car and I told him I think it is for practice with the rescue equipment. As we walked over to it we found the crew. They waved us over and asked if we wanted a tour. The boys seemed up for it so we headed on over to the open truck bay.
There were three EMTs (one just got his certification) and two firefighters. They were very happy to have visitors and gave us the absolute best fire station tour ever. For 45 minutes we got an exhaustive rundown on all the vehicles, a tour of the facility, and we got to try on helmets and headsets. We also got to go inside two of the trucks (That's we when the boys got to wear the headsets, Jake got a laugh when he said "Red leader standing by.") and check out the interior of an ambulance. We learned all about the new foam technology they use, the tanker trucks and the thermal imaging device. The jaws of life (big and little) were hauled out along with the cutter (with the admonition to never put your fingers near the business end of the cutter).
It was a blast. We even found out that you can have a birthday party at the picnic table out back.
I think the station crew would have been happy for us to stay longer, but it was late and a school night. The boys were very happy that they went to my dog club meeting.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Artists of the Week: Piano
Last Sunday Rebecca, Max and Nate had their Spring Music Recital.
Nate is an old hand at these and it was Max's second, but it was Rebecca's very first one. As an added bonus they received their trophies at the end of the recital. A few weeks before the recital the teacher's students are invited to be judged by another piano teacher. They students memorize and then play 6, 8 or ten pieces of music. If they are successful they will earn a small, medium or large trophy. My crew went decided to go for the small trophy and, as you can see by the very grainy photo, they each got one.
At the recital Rebecca was first one up, being the youngest performer and the least experienced. Rebecca was very excited and was eager to go all day long. She would get to wear her fancy dress and have treats afterwards. Her two pieces of music were My Dog Spike and Merrily We're Off to School.
She was a little hesitant at first with, but was able to step up and perform both of her pieces. I think she did a great job.
Next up was Max performing Party Cat and Mr. Machine.
Unfortunately my camera's batteries died just after he started his first piece, but I was able to get the spare set on hand in before his second and last song. He had his music book in front of him, but that was just to give him confidence. He knew both pieces by heart.
Then it was Nate's turn. As I stated earlier recitals are old hat to Nate.
He did a great job with both pieces. The first one, Chorale, is a very pretty piece of music, but Banjo Picker is where Nate really shined. It is a bouncy and rollicking tune that suits Nate to a tee.
They all had fun and overall it was a very good recital.
Nate is an old hand at these and it was Max's second, but it was Rebecca's very first one. As an added bonus they received their trophies at the end of the recital. A few weeks before the recital the teacher's students are invited to be judged by another piano teacher. They students memorize and then play 6, 8 or ten pieces of music. If they are successful they will earn a small, medium or large trophy. My crew went decided to go for the small trophy and, as you can see by the very grainy photo, they each got one.
At the recital Rebecca was first one up, being the youngest performer and the least experienced. Rebecca was very excited and was eager to go all day long. She would get to wear her fancy dress and have treats afterwards. Her two pieces of music were My Dog Spike and Merrily We're Off to School.
She was a little hesitant at first with, but was able to step up and perform both of her pieces. I think she did a great job.
Next up was Max performing Party Cat and Mr. Machine.
Unfortunately my camera's batteries died just after he started his first piece, but I was able to get the spare set on hand in before his second and last song. He had his music book in front of him, but that was just to give him confidence. He knew both pieces by heart.
Then it was Nate's turn. As I stated earlier recitals are old hat to Nate.
He did a great job with both pieces. The first one, Chorale, is a very pretty piece of music, but Banjo Picker is where Nate really shined. It is a bouncy and rollicking tune that suits Nate to a tee.
They all had fun and overall it was a very good recital.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Crunch's Legacy
Crunch certainly did produce some very nice dogs.
The two sons we have, John and Dell, are happy, affectionate and easy going boys. They love the kids and they mesh together very well. Crunch's waggy tail and friendly nature are readily apparent through most of his get.
In addition to his wonderful temperament Crunch also bestowed a couple more things to his boys. They both have very well developed prey drives. Dachshunds are hunting dogs and this is clearly applies to John and Dell. John has been a bit obsessed with moles recently (to the detriment of our lawn) and Dell is always using his nose outside.
Then there is Crunch's quirky little habit of sucking on ears. He used to endlessly suck on poor Rally's ears, leaving them slimy with his saliva. When we brought John home we thought it was fitting that John sucked his father's ears. At the age of 14 Crunch had stopped bothering Rally and was instead the target of his son's affections.
After Crunch passed away John no longer had any ears to suck, but then we got Dell. John enthusiastically resumed his ear sucking habit, but with a twist. Dell is an ear sucker too. Dell doesn't do it as much as John. Mostly it occurs when there are wrestling about as in this picture.
It was definitely one of Crunch's least charming traits, but it is interesting to see how it is being carried down the line.
The two sons we have, John and Dell, are happy, affectionate and easy going boys. They love the kids and they mesh together very well. Crunch's waggy tail and friendly nature are readily apparent through most of his get.
In addition to his wonderful temperament Crunch also bestowed a couple more things to his boys. They both have very well developed prey drives. Dachshunds are hunting dogs and this is clearly applies to John and Dell. John has been a bit obsessed with moles recently (to the detriment of our lawn) and Dell is always using his nose outside.
Then there is Crunch's quirky little habit of sucking on ears. He used to endlessly suck on poor Rally's ears, leaving them slimy with his saliva. When we brought John home we thought it was fitting that John sucked his father's ears. At the age of 14 Crunch had stopped bothering Rally and was instead the target of his son's affections.
After Crunch passed away John no longer had any ears to suck, but then we got Dell. John enthusiastically resumed his ear sucking habit, but with a twist. Dell is an ear sucker too. Dell doesn't do it as much as John. Mostly it occurs when there are wrestling about as in this picture.
It was definitely one of Crunch's least charming traits, but it is interesting to see how it is being carried down the line.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Standards Of Learning
This week my two oldest are taking Virginia's Standards Of Learning tests, otherwise known as the SOLs (a rather unfortunate acronym). These tests are used to some degree evaluate the students, but mostly to evaluate the schools. Certain minimal levels of achievement must be met by the schools to remain/achieve accreditation. The testing is just part of Virginia's effort to abide by No Child Left Behind.
Anyway, Jake is an old hand at the SOLs and regularly scores very high on them. Nate, however, will be taking them for the first time. He is not too concerned, his biggest problem is going too fast and making careless errors. I'll be picking him up from school not long after his first test tomorrow and I'll get his take on the whole SOL thing. I do know that he is looking forward to the candy that gets passed out at test time. It was really funny when Nate told me about it.
He excitedly announced to me that he'll be getting treats at school and wanted me to guess why. I told him it was for the SOLs and we know the researcher that brought this particular gaming of the system to light. In fact we have gone on joint family vacations with him and his family twice. Nate was stunned and then thought that was pretty cool.
Anyway, Jake is an old hand at the SOLs and regularly scores very high on them. Nate, however, will be taking them for the first time. He is not too concerned, his biggest problem is going too fast and making careless errors. I'll be picking him up from school not long after his first test tomorrow and I'll get his take on the whole SOL thing. I do know that he is looking forward to the candy that gets passed out at test time. It was really funny when Nate told me about it.
He excitedly announced to me that he'll be getting treats at school and wanted me to guess why. I told him it was for the SOLs and we know the researcher that brought this particular gaming of the system to light. In fact we have gone on joint family vacations with him and his family twice. Nate was stunned and then thought that was pretty cool.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Far From Recommended
I'm throwing in the towel on this one.
I picked up Redemption Falls from the library last week and I have been completely unable to get into it. The narrative voice switches around in the most maddening way. Reviewers claim it all hangs together in the end, I just have to stick with it. After 67 pages I'm just losing patience with the author. It might have helped if I had read an earlier book (Star of the Sea), but I doubt it. The book is just not my cup of tea.
So back to the library goes.
I picked up Redemption Falls from the library last week and I have been completely unable to get into it. The narrative voice switches around in the most maddening way. Reviewers claim it all hangs together in the end, I just have to stick with it. After 67 pages I'm just losing patience with the author. It might have helped if I had read an earlier book (Star of the Sea), but I doubt it. The book is just not my cup of tea.
So back to the library goes.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Wow! Big News Indeed!
I just get an email forwarded by Larry from his cousin Suzanne titled RE: The big news. It turns out that Suzanne just got married on April 12th in Las Vegas. She and her husband Ethan have a wedding blog that has all sorts of pictures and links to their respective blogs.
I was very happy to see that they did the whole Vegas experience to the nines, a hotel ceremony with a bona fied Elvis impersonator named Glenn.
Way to go Suzanne and Mazel Tov!
I was very happy to see that they did the whole Vegas experience to the nines, a hotel ceremony with a bona fied Elvis impersonator named Glenn.
Way to go Suzanne and Mazel Tov!
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Field Trip to the Zoo
Today I got to go to the zoo with entire kindergarten from Max and Rebecca's school.
The kindergarten trip to the zoo is an annual event and it was the first year I could attend. The zoo itself is real not a big deal for our family, being season pass holders for over four years, but it is always fun. Today's trip was no exception. The prairie dogs were feisty today and would come very close to the enclosure's fencing. As a result I was able to take the best photo I have ever taken of a prairie dog.
Anyway, since this was a school trip there was an actual educational portion to our visit. We got to learn about birds, reptiles and mammals on a kindergarten friendly level. But the best part was that we got to see some examples up close. Much to Max's delight TJ the penguin was brought out for the bird portion. Then the handler announced next up would be reptiles. After a little discussion about what is a reptile she went in back to fetch an example. At this point about a half dozen people left the amphitheater. They (rightly so it turns out) thought a snake was going to brought out and wanted to leave before the handler returned. And what a snake it was. Mac is an albino Burmese Python that is 10 feet long is about 10 years old. I thought it was neat that we could for once get a clear view of the snake and get a better idea of its size. Next up were mammals and we got treated with meeting one of the zoo's young chimps. I *think* its name was Quentin, but I do know it was male and very cute. Then it was off to see the zoo.
Max and I did a quick tour, it was getting late and he was getting hungry. S we headed back for snack we met up with some of Max's classmates. One of them wanted to see the bats and I offered to take him in. The other mom was very happy to skip that portion and Max was happy to have a friend in the bat house. Max, strangely enough, loves going to see the bats. He gets freaked out over all sorts of ordinary things, but not bats. That is the mystery of Max. After the bats we had snack and then a quick run to see the bears.
On the way I took this picture of Max and his classmate. They are looking at the porcupines and I was struck by how much physically alike the two boys are are. When viewed from behind they really look more like twins than Max and Rebecca. I can tell them apart, but can you?
The kindergarten trip to the zoo is an annual event and it was the first year I could attend. The zoo itself is real not a big deal for our family, being season pass holders for over four years, but it is always fun. Today's trip was no exception. The prairie dogs were feisty today and would come very close to the enclosure's fencing. As a result I was able to take the best photo I have ever taken of a prairie dog.
Anyway, since this was a school trip there was an actual educational portion to our visit. We got to learn about birds, reptiles and mammals on a kindergarten friendly level. But the best part was that we got to see some examples up close. Much to Max's delight TJ the penguin was brought out for the bird portion. Then the handler announced next up would be reptiles. After a little discussion about what is a reptile she went in back to fetch an example. At this point about a half dozen people left the amphitheater. They (rightly so it turns out) thought a snake was going to brought out and wanted to leave before the handler returned. And what a snake it was. Mac is an albino Burmese Python that is 10 feet long is about 10 years old. I thought it was neat that we could for once get a clear view of the snake and get a better idea of its size. Next up were mammals and we got treated with meeting one of the zoo's young chimps. I *think* its name was Quentin, but I do know it was male and very cute. Then it was off to see the zoo.
Max and I did a quick tour, it was getting late and he was getting hungry. S we headed back for snack we met up with some of Max's classmates. One of them wanted to see the bats and I offered to take him in. The other mom was very happy to skip that portion and Max was happy to have a friend in the bat house. Max, strangely enough, loves going to see the bats. He gets freaked out over all sorts of ordinary things, but not bats. That is the mystery of Max. After the bats we had snack and then a quick run to see the bears.
On the way I took this picture of Max and his classmate. They are looking at the porcupines and I was struck by how much physically alike the two boys are are. When viewed from behind they really look more like twins than Max and Rebecca. I can tell them apart, but can you?
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Artist of the Week: Second Concert
This week's artist is Jake.
My best pictures of him are almost always taken when he is unaware of what I'm doing. He is not hiding, goofing off or twisting his face into some sort of fixed smile. Instead he is just himself, a boy striding across the infield before the start of the game. Focused on what is about to happen and ignoring everything else.
Sometimes, like at last night's game, he does want me to take his picture, but that is a rare event now. I'm much better off sneaking up on him like I did a week ago when I got this particular shot.
Fortunately he is cooperative when I tape his performances from band class. He understands that it is a performance and that he is expected to play his instrument in front of a crowd that has free reign to photograph and video tape.
Monday was his second band concert for Beginning Band.
His level, beginning, played four songs: Knights of the Round Table (the video above),Genesis, Acclaim March, and The Tempest.
They are not the best band, but they have improved over the school year and they put in an honest effort. The percussion is amazing at this level and I can see why half of the percussionists in the District Band come from Jake's middle school.
But the best part for me is that Jake decided to go on with band next year. It's up to the teacher to decide if he'll get into Intermediate Band, but I think he will.
My best pictures of him are almost always taken when he is unaware of what I'm doing. He is not hiding, goofing off or twisting his face into some sort of fixed smile. Instead he is just himself, a boy striding across the infield before the start of the game. Focused on what is about to happen and ignoring everything else.
Sometimes, like at last night's game, he does want me to take his picture, but that is a rare event now. I'm much better off sneaking up on him like I did a week ago when I got this particular shot.
Fortunately he is cooperative when I tape his performances from band class. He understands that it is a performance and that he is expected to play his instrument in front of a crowd that has free reign to photograph and video tape.
Monday was his second band concert for Beginning Band.
His level, beginning, played four songs: Knights of the Round Table (the video above),Genesis, Acclaim March, and The Tempest.
They are not the best band, but they have improved over the school year and they put in an honest effort. The percussion is amazing at this level and I can see why half of the percussionists in the District Band come from Jake's middle school.
But the best part for me is that Jake decided to go on with band next year. It's up to the teacher to decide if he'll get into Intermediate Band, but I think he will.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Open Letter To My Children
I love all of you very much. I would do almost anything for you to keep you safe. But some days I don't like you very much.
It's very hard to love someone when they spend 25 minutes pitching a fit, instead of getting dressed and eating breakfast. Especially when the fit was first brought on when they were told to put on a long sleeve shirt and long pants (oh the horror) and extended when it was decided that the shirt *I was wearing* (purple with a teeny tiny geometric pattern) was not acceptable.
I was told that it was not fair that I was wearing that shirt and that any thing I did while wearing that shirt was no good.
Well, life is not fair.
I was, in the end, able to spoon the reluctantly fully dressed child onto the bus. I then sent an email out to give the teacher a heads up.
I'm not, however, changing my shirt.
It's very hard to love someone when they spend 25 minutes pitching a fit, instead of getting dressed and eating breakfast. Especially when the fit was first brought on when they were told to put on a long sleeve shirt and long pants (oh the horror) and extended when it was decided that the shirt *I was wearing* (purple with a teeny tiny geometric pattern) was not acceptable.
I was told that it was not fair that I was wearing that shirt and that any thing I did while wearing that shirt was no good.
Well, life is not fair.
I was, in the end, able to spoon the reluctantly fully dressed child onto the bus. I then sent an email out to give the teacher a heads up.
I'm not, however, changing my shirt.
Monday, May 12, 2008
Sometimes You Just Have to Kick Some Butt
You Are Buffy the Vampire Slayer |
 "We saved the world. I say we have to party." |
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Friday, May 09, 2008
Thursday, May 08, 2008
Fund Raising, A New Low
I've ranted about fund raising before, particularly for the middle school. I *thought* it was at it's lowest with the whole you must sell 8 items in order to attend the school wide party.
But I was wrong. Oh so very, very wrong.
The middle school kicked it up to a whole new level of evil. It turns out that at the start of the fund raiser a child is secretly selected as the mystery student. The identity of the mystery student is revealed at the close of the fund raiser. Both the kids and the parents are kept in the dark. The mystery student "wins" $100, but only if the student had sold five fund raiser items.
And guess who was the mystery student.
That's right, it was Jake.
Since he sold bupkis, he didn't get the money.
My poor boy last night was very sad about his lost riches. I was furious.
I had tossed the fund raiser packet shortly after Jake brought it home. He understood how I felt and agreed that the catalog had nothing to offer us.
I know why they did this, it is to improve participation. But it is so very wrong to tell a child "Hey you won! but you don't get the money because your parents didn't want to buy more junk."
I hate our middle school's fund raisers. I'll do the band stuff, but I'm writing off the school.
But I was wrong. Oh so very, very wrong.
The middle school kicked it up to a whole new level of evil. It turns out that at the start of the fund raiser a child is secretly selected as the mystery student. The identity of the mystery student is revealed at the close of the fund raiser. Both the kids and the parents are kept in the dark. The mystery student "wins" $100, but only if the student had sold five fund raiser items.
And guess who was the mystery student.
That's right, it was Jake.
Since he sold bupkis, he didn't get the money.
My poor boy last night was very sad about his lost riches. I was furious.
I had tossed the fund raiser packet shortly after Jake brought it home. He understood how I felt and agreed that the catalog had nothing to offer us.
I know why they did this, it is to improve participation. But it is so very wrong to tell a child "Hey you won! but you don't get the money because your parents didn't want to buy more junk."
I hate our middle school's fund raisers. I'll do the band stuff, but I'm writing off the school.
Wednesday, May 07, 2008
Artist of the Week: Coiled
This week's artist is the always active Nate.
Today we got a rare day off, we had no baseball games. There had been one scheduled for Max and Rebecca, but there had been a scheduling error. The game was a make up for one of our many, many rain outs. However, the opposing team already had a game scheduled today. So no game for the t-ball Cubbies. Instead they got to play around outside until dinner, enjoying the warm late spring weather.
As for the art, Nate brought it home from school a few weeks ago. It only suffered minor trauma from the bus ride home, one of the side coils along the rim broke off. A little bit of glue and it was right as rain.
It is a fairly ornate coiled pot/mug (the side handle makes me think mug, but this little pot can not hold water). The main color is a vivid shade of cobalt blue with little splashes of red. It is featherlight and fits neatly with two cupped hands.
I like it. It is a true object d'art with no practical use. The blue color is my favorite and the accents of red really pop.
Today we got a rare day off, we had no baseball games. There had been one scheduled for Max and Rebecca, but there had been a scheduling error. The game was a make up for one of our many, many rain outs. However, the opposing team already had a game scheduled today. So no game for the t-ball Cubbies. Instead they got to play around outside until dinner, enjoying the warm late spring weather.
As for the art, Nate brought it home from school a few weeks ago. It only suffered minor trauma from the bus ride home, one of the side coils along the rim broke off. A little bit of glue and it was right as rain.
It is a fairly ornate coiled pot/mug (the side handle makes me think mug, but this little pot can not hold water). The main color is a vivid shade of cobalt blue with little splashes of red. It is featherlight and fits neatly with two cupped hands.
I like it. It is a true object d'art with no practical use. The blue color is my favorite and the accents of red really pop.
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
Then There is Baseball
I'm so sick of doing laundry.
Because of the short season and the vast amount of rain outs we are having a lot of back to back game days. Nate is coming off of a four day run, Max and Rebecca are just to starting a four day game streak and Jake will be playing games five out of seven days next week.
This kind of scheduling is grueling on the kids. Most of Nate and Jake's week day games start at 7:30 pm. Which means a very late night. On a school night. I'm lucky that I have a bunch of night owls, but I know some kids are a wreck the next day. Fortunately the t-baller games are only scheduled for 6:00 pm, but that's plenty late.
And, of course, we only have one uniform per player. This results in my doing a load of wash every day for the next two weeks. Little itty bitty loads loads that offend my Yankee soul. I normally do laundry twice a week. Two to three loads each Tuesday and Friday. That has gone out the window. I'm glad I have a washer and dryer, but I'm sick to death with using them. But the shirts, pants and socks need to be washed. I can fake it a bit with the socks and pants. We have a few sets from previous years, but the shirts have to be done. And it all really does need washing. The older boys don't get too stinky, but they certainly get grubby. Especially Nate who spends a fair amount of his time as catcher and often has to roll around home plate to make (and he does make them) the play.
I'm looking forward to tennis and the pool. There is far less washing to be done.
Because of the short season and the vast amount of rain outs we are having a lot of back to back game days. Nate is coming off of a four day run, Max and Rebecca are just to starting a four day game streak and Jake will be playing games five out of seven days next week.
This kind of scheduling is grueling on the kids. Most of Nate and Jake's week day games start at 7:30 pm. Which means a very late night. On a school night. I'm lucky that I have a bunch of night owls, but I know some kids are a wreck the next day. Fortunately the t-baller games are only scheduled for 6:00 pm, but that's plenty late.
And, of course, we only have one uniform per player. This results in my doing a load of wash every day for the next two weeks. Little itty bitty loads loads that offend my Yankee soul. I normally do laundry twice a week. Two to three loads each Tuesday and Friday. That has gone out the window. I'm glad I have a washer and dryer, but I'm sick to death with using them. But the shirts, pants and socks need to be washed. I can fake it a bit with the socks and pants. We have a few sets from previous years, but the shirts have to be done. And it all really does need washing. The older boys don't get too stinky, but they certainly get grubby. Especially Nate who spends a fair amount of his time as catcher and often has to roll around home plate to make (and he does make them) the play.
I'm looking forward to tennis and the pool. There is far less washing to be done.
Monday, May 05, 2008
6 Weeks and Counting
We have just 6 weeks left in the school year.
Nate noted that this morning before stepping out to the bus. Just six more weeks of getting up early to wrangle kids out the door. Just six more weeks of asking kids school lunch or packed. Just six more weeks of making sure that somebody (usually me) is home to greet them after school.
Then...
It's a little bit this and a little bit of that and a whole lot of unstructured time. The first few weeks are brutal, my quiet days will be over and I'll be exhausted by the constant talking, but I'll adjust. And then summer draws to a close and it's back to school.
Nate noted that this morning before stepping out to the bus. Just six more weeks of getting up early to wrangle kids out the door. Just six more weeks of asking kids school lunch or packed. Just six more weeks of making sure that somebody (usually me) is home to greet them after school.
Then...
It's a little bit this and a little bit of that and a whole lot of unstructured time. The first few weeks are brutal, my quiet days will be over and I'll be exhausted by the constant talking, but I'll adjust. And then summer draws to a close and it's back to school.
Sunday, May 04, 2008
Dell
It has been a eight weeks and Dell has wormed his way into our hearts.
Dell is a little wiggle worm. He's is always rolling over onto his back and waving his front paws. If you sit on the floor he'll try to crawl into your lap or under your legs, madly wagging his tail the whole time. I found that he'll wag even harder if you say his name in a bright and happy voice.
He and John get along very well. There have been a few disagreements, but nothing serious. They love to wrestle with each other and just like Crunch did with John, they are usually at my feet. The funniest thing they do when wrestling is when they are side by side and both on their backs mouthing each other. When they are outside they careen across the lawn bumping into each other. It's almost like a roller derby out there. Then they rush back indoors to flop at my feet.
Interestingly John has matured immensely with Dell in the house. He is no longer destroying toys left and right, that seems to be Dell's job for now. At least Dell drops things when asked with John it was more of a 50-50 prospect. However Dell hasn't learned to stop barking when asked. John is fairly quite with a very classic scent hound bell like aroo type bark . Dell, on the other hand, has a much more robust bark. He sounds far bigger than he is. Which I guess would make him a good watch dog. I just wish he would knock it off when told too and wasn't so chatty at night.
Overall it was a good thing to get Dell. Now have two very silly and very happy red boys.
Dell is a little wiggle worm. He's is always rolling over onto his back and waving his front paws. If you sit on the floor he'll try to crawl into your lap or under your legs, madly wagging his tail the whole time. I found that he'll wag even harder if you say his name in a bright and happy voice.
He and John get along very well. There have been a few disagreements, but nothing serious. They love to wrestle with each other and just like Crunch did with John, they are usually at my feet. The funniest thing they do when wrestling is when they are side by side and both on their backs mouthing each other. When they are outside they careen across the lawn bumping into each other. It's almost like a roller derby out there. Then they rush back indoors to flop at my feet.
Interestingly John has matured immensely with Dell in the house. He is no longer destroying toys left and right, that seems to be Dell's job for now. At least Dell drops things when asked with John it was more of a 50-50 prospect. However Dell hasn't learned to stop barking when asked. John is fairly quite with a very classic scent hound bell like aroo type bark . Dell, on the other hand, has a much more robust bark. He sounds far bigger than he is. Which I guess would make him a good watch dog. I just wish he would knock it off when told too and wasn't so chatty at night.
Overall it was a good thing to get Dell. Now have two very silly and very happy red boys.
Friday, May 02, 2008
Thursday, May 01, 2008
Going Round And Round For A Cure
I have a new favorite NASCAR driver. Really, I do.
Before moving down south to Virginia I was only dimly aware of the whole stock car racing thing. But now that I'm in the south and the mother of three little boys that love all things that go fast I've gotten quite an education. We settled on a couple of racers to watch, one of them being Elliot Sadler. Why Elliot you ask? Well he is relatively local and at the time drove the M&M car.
Then last year a new driver, Denny Hamlin, hit the scene. He had an amazing rookie year and is from the Richmond metro area. So I started to watch him. This year he has become my official favorite because of his foundation's focus, Cystic Fibrosis. It turns out he has a close relative with CF. In fact tonight there is a short track race just south of Richmond that will benefit the foundation.I would have loved to have taken the kids, but it is a school night and Nate (he's pitching too) has a ball game that starts at the same time as the race.
Then to put the whole thing over the top is Denny's auction. He is selling off all the stuff in his life that slows him down and all the proceeds go to St. Jude Children's Hospital. The site is a hoot, there are things like a rocking chair, spa slippers and War and Peace. I don't know who came up with the idea, but I love it.
So go Hurricane Hamlin.
Before moving down south to Virginia I was only dimly aware of the whole stock car racing thing. But now that I'm in the south and the mother of three little boys that love all things that go fast I've gotten quite an education. We settled on a couple of racers to watch, one of them being Elliot Sadler. Why Elliot you ask? Well he is relatively local and at the time drove the M&M car.
Then last year a new driver, Denny Hamlin, hit the scene. He had an amazing rookie year and is from the Richmond metro area. So I started to watch him. This year he has become my official favorite because of his foundation's focus, Cystic Fibrosis. It turns out he has a close relative with CF. In fact tonight there is a short track race just south of Richmond that will benefit the foundation.I would have loved to have taken the kids, but it is a school night and Nate (he's pitching too) has a ball game that starts at the same time as the race.
Then to put the whole thing over the top is Denny's auction. He is selling off all the stuff in his life that slows him down and all the proceeds go to St. Jude Children's Hospital. The site is a hoot, there are things like a rocking chair, spa slippers and War and Peace. I don't know who came up with the idea, but I love it.
So go Hurricane Hamlin.
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