Drunk parenting is one of the Worlds greatest spectator sports and includes fantastic dialogue like;
Child: Is it ok if I watch some Scooby Doo before I go to sleep?
Drunk Dad: Hey, No problem. Just make sure your tv is off. (said with a totally straight face)
My husband is home from patrol. He is enjoying a drink. Something he hasn't done is (quite obviously) a very long time.
Welcome home Chris!
Showing posts with label Family. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Family. Show all posts
December 30, 2009
November 3, 2009
What Ever Happened to Soccer Mom?
My daughter. She is exuberant and outgoing and quite a talented kid...if I do say so myself.
Last year we did one activity, dance. Two, once the weather was warmer and swimming could resume. So two things to shuttle between.
This year was gearing up to be a rather uneventful one. Easy. My daughter on the other hand had different plans.
She started Irish dance....and we added choir. Because, she can sing and sing well for an 8 year old. She loves to sing and I decided, what's it going to hurt?
Then we got word that Annie was going in production at the high school...and they needed kids!
So naturally my Annie addict wanted in on that action. Seriously, she is addicted to it, she even has the "vintage" dolls from the 70's and saw Annie live on stage for her 7th birthday.
So we went to auditions. I naturally tried to do my best to remind her that regardless of what happens it's just awesome that she is so brave and willing to sing in front of everyone.
We walked into the auditions and I wanted to turn around and walk out for her. I never had problems on stage, but I freaked at the amount of people in that auditorium. I was scared for her!
I know I have Mom ear and think everything she sings is sunshine and roses. When in fact it could sound like a strangled cow for all I know.
I asked her if she wanted to leave after 10 or so REALLY good girls sang. She said "no way"
So we waited. Finally after about an hour she was called.
She walked on stage, said her name then belted out Tomorrow. She nailed it!
However, like I said there were a ton of people in there so I didn't expect much.
Two days later the director called and offered her a part as an orphan. She was thrilled...Of course!
I'm bragging now...but the director also told me they had over 150 girls audition....they cast 8 parts. My Baby's Gonna Be a Star! (said with a thick southern accent...of course)
So she has been going to Annie rehearsals twice a week for the last few weeks.
Then last night we got some more good news.
She applied for the Miss Kitsap/Miss Poulsbo little sister program. They aren't contestants themselves, but the girls get paired up with one of the contestants and do publicity things with them as well as a number on stage during the actual pageant.
Now, I'm not a big pageant person. But this program is really fun. Plus, it's another thing that was open to all third grade girls in our county. Only a few are selected because there are only so many towns in the county! That is a really big deal!
Naturally she is really excited about that too. So we are now doing four things, not including the Girl scouts troop she is supposed to join. ugh! thankfully they only meet once every other week.
Anyway, it's going to be a very busy winter AND Chris is out to sea and doesn't get to enjoy it!
Thankfully he should be home in time to see the end results. Hopefully!
Last year we did one activity, dance. Two, once the weather was warmer and swimming could resume. So two things to shuttle between.
This year was gearing up to be a rather uneventful one. Easy. My daughter on the other hand had different plans.
She started Irish dance....and we added choir. Because, she can sing and sing well for an 8 year old. She loves to sing and I decided, what's it going to hurt?
Then we got word that Annie was going in production at the high school...and they needed kids!
So naturally my Annie addict wanted in on that action. Seriously, she is addicted to it, she even has the "vintage" dolls from the 70's and saw Annie live on stage for her 7th birthday.
So we went to auditions. I naturally tried to do my best to remind her that regardless of what happens it's just awesome that she is so brave and willing to sing in front of everyone.
We walked into the auditions and I wanted to turn around and walk out for her. I never had problems on stage, but I freaked at the amount of people in that auditorium. I was scared for her!
I know I have Mom ear and think everything she sings is sunshine and roses. When in fact it could sound like a strangled cow for all I know.
I asked her if she wanted to leave after 10 or so REALLY good girls sang. She said "no way"
So we waited. Finally after about an hour she was called.
She walked on stage, said her name then belted out Tomorrow. She nailed it!
However, like I said there were a ton of people in there so I didn't expect much.
Two days later the director called and offered her a part as an orphan. She was thrilled...Of course!
I'm bragging now...but the director also told me they had over 150 girls audition....they cast 8 parts. My Baby's Gonna Be a Star! (said with a thick southern accent...of course)
So she has been going to Annie rehearsals twice a week for the last few weeks.
Then last night we got some more good news.
She applied for the Miss Kitsap/Miss Poulsbo little sister program. They aren't contestants themselves, but the girls get paired up with one of the contestants and do publicity things with them as well as a number on stage during the actual pageant.
Now, I'm not a big pageant person. But this program is really fun. Plus, it's another thing that was open to all third grade girls in our county. Only a few are selected because there are only so many towns in the county! That is a really big deal!
Naturally she is really excited about that too. So we are now doing four things, not including the Girl scouts troop she is supposed to join. ugh! thankfully they only meet once every other week.
Anyway, it's going to be a very busy winter AND Chris is out to sea and doesn't get to enjoy it!
Thankfully he should be home in time to see the end results. Hopefully!
October 18, 2009
Beware the Pig...
So much has been going on lately...but all of it has been over shadowed by one simple word.
SWINE.
You've seen the hype. Heard the news reporters tell you "we're all going to die"
But I am happy to report...that's simply not the case. though, you wish it were when it's you suffering from it.
You see, a couple weeks ago my handsome husband came home from work not feeling so hot. He never gets sick, so of course I took notice.
He coughed and slept, but still went to work and after a few days was on the mend again.
A few days later I was down for the count. Last Saturday I went to a family event on the boat, within two hours of coming home I was in bed dying. I remember nothing until I woke up Monday morning.
I had no choice. I had to get out of bed because Chris had to go to work and Gracie had the day off. So I pushed my way through. Even though my lungs still feel like they are on fire every time I cough.
Tuesday, Gracie went to school and I took it easy. I was starting to feel better, but exhausted and weak.
Wednesday Gracie didn't feel well. She stayed home from school that day with what I thought sounded like croup or something. A high pitched barking cough. Not much of a fever. 99, but the cough made her tired so I kept her home.
Thursday I went in to wake Gracie up...see if she was well enough to go to school. She was shivering. I put my hand on her forehead and it felt like fire. I ran and grabbed the thermometer, 103.9.
I told her to get dressed, we were going to the hospital.
I took her to the Navy hospital. She's taken back to a room where we wait, and we wait and we wait. All the while the girl in the next bed behind the curtain is getting juice and blankets and having her blood pressure and temp taken. Gracie...totally ignored. I went outside the curtain on more than once occasion to ask for help, blankets something.
Finally I was fed up. Gracie was hurting so badly and coughing like crazy. She was freezing (from the fever) and dehydrated. I went to the nurses station where one doctor and a nurse were flipping through a Vogue magazine together and told them we were leaving.
They tried to use the "we're really busy and we'll get to her as soon as we can" and while I can understand the Manolo's fall collection is an important topic, my daughters health ranks slightly higher.
I said "obviously you don't think it's the flu because you're not taking this very seriously"
Grabbed Gracie and walked out the door.
I was so upset I was seeing red, actually seeing red!
So I drove back home...almost gave up the whole medical evaluation with the idea that if they weren't taking it seriously, then I must be overreacting. But that nagging little voice in my head said to take her to see someone.
I called our doctor from my cell. No openings for another week and a half.
Urgent Care. Right there in front of me. I pulled in.
Within ten minutes Gracie was back in a room. The doctor came in minutes later. They did the rapid test for the flu....guess what. It's the flu!
They of course sent those results in to the State lab.
Vindicated, I called the Navy hospital. I got our insurance to cover the cost of the Urgent Care visit and informed the hospital that she does indeed have the flu. Way to go guys!
Anyway...the moral of the story, trust your instincts.
This bout of H1N1 didn't effect us like the flu.
We all had a bad cough, but not much of a fever except Gracie that one day. I was sick to my stomach once. That's it. And I think it had to do with all the coughing not nausea.
The biggest symptom...weak and tired. Ever active Gracie wanted nothing but to lay in bed and sleep.
It passes rather quickly. A week or so until you feel like a human again....but it feels like it take years.
The best news of all, we are now immune to at least this strain of H1N1. Yay!
SWINE.
You've seen the hype. Heard the news reporters tell you "we're all going to die"
But I am happy to report...that's simply not the case. though, you wish it were when it's you suffering from it.
You see, a couple weeks ago my handsome husband came home from work not feeling so hot. He never gets sick, so of course I took notice.
He coughed and slept, but still went to work and after a few days was on the mend again.
A few days later I was down for the count. Last Saturday I went to a family event on the boat, within two hours of coming home I was in bed dying. I remember nothing until I woke up Monday morning.
I had no choice. I had to get out of bed because Chris had to go to work and Gracie had the day off. So I pushed my way through. Even though my lungs still feel like they are on fire every time I cough.
Tuesday, Gracie went to school and I took it easy. I was starting to feel better, but exhausted and weak.
Wednesday Gracie didn't feel well. She stayed home from school that day with what I thought sounded like croup or something. A high pitched barking cough. Not much of a fever. 99, but the cough made her tired so I kept her home.
Thursday I went in to wake Gracie up...see if she was well enough to go to school. She was shivering. I put my hand on her forehead and it felt like fire. I ran and grabbed the thermometer, 103.9.
I told her to get dressed, we were going to the hospital.
I took her to the Navy hospital. She's taken back to a room where we wait, and we wait and we wait. All the while the girl in the next bed behind the curtain is getting juice and blankets and having her blood pressure and temp taken. Gracie...totally ignored. I went outside the curtain on more than once occasion to ask for help, blankets something.
Finally I was fed up. Gracie was hurting so badly and coughing like crazy. She was freezing (from the fever) and dehydrated. I went to the nurses station where one doctor and a nurse were flipping through a Vogue magazine together and told them we were leaving.
They tried to use the "we're really busy and we'll get to her as soon as we can" and while I can understand the Manolo's fall collection is an important topic, my daughters health ranks slightly higher.
I said "obviously you don't think it's the flu because you're not taking this very seriously"
Grabbed Gracie and walked out the door.
I was so upset I was seeing red, actually seeing red!
So I drove back home...almost gave up the whole medical evaluation with the idea that if they weren't taking it seriously, then I must be overreacting. But that nagging little voice in my head said to take her to see someone.
I called our doctor from my cell. No openings for another week and a half.
Urgent Care. Right there in front of me. I pulled in.
Within ten minutes Gracie was back in a room. The doctor came in minutes later. They did the rapid test for the flu....guess what. It's the flu!
They of course sent those results in to the State lab.
Vindicated, I called the Navy hospital. I got our insurance to cover the cost of the Urgent Care visit and informed the hospital that she does indeed have the flu. Way to go guys!
Anyway...the moral of the story, trust your instincts.
This bout of H1N1 didn't effect us like the flu.
We all had a bad cough, but not much of a fever except Gracie that one day. I was sick to my stomach once. That's it. And I think it had to do with all the coughing not nausea.
The biggest symptom...weak and tired. Ever active Gracie wanted nothing but to lay in bed and sleep.
It passes rather quickly. A week or so until you feel like a human again....but it feels like it take years.
The best news of all, we are now immune to at least this strain of H1N1. Yay!
September 11, 2009
Where Were You 8 Years Ago Today?
I was in San Diego, California.
Chris was stationed at Naval Air Station, North Island (Now Naval Base Coronado)
Work started for him at 6 in the morning, so with the rush hour commute he usually left our home around 5.
On his way to work he listened to the greatest radio dj's in existence. Jeff and Jer.
They were doing their normal morning routine when all of a sudden they announced "we're getting reports of a small plane crashing into the World Trade Center"
Chris listened....but assumed it was an accident. Still he was interested. He got to work and gave me a call. He knows I'm a news junkie and that Gracie would be waking up soon so he wanted me to know about the developing story out of New York City.
As I was on the phone with him I turned on the tv to the news. Within minutes the second plane hit.
All I could say was "Oh my God.....Oh my God!"
Chris realizing quicker than I had that this was no accident and he was on an air base in the military said he had to go....his final words to me in that conversation was "this is going to be bad"
I hung up the phone and quickly dialed my Mom in Oregon. She turned on the news, then hung up so she could call and tell my Grandmother the news.
I sat there, on my living room floor watching the events unfold.
I talked to Chris shortly after the first tower fell. I was talking to him when the second one came down.
I couldn't believe it. I honestly couldn't believe what I was seeing on the tv screen.
The base was being shut down. Only essential personal were allowed to stay. The downfall to my husband being a computer guru...he was essential personal. We had no idea when he would be allowed to leave the base. One thing was for sure, Gracie and I were alone in our house in San Diego...without a car.
Call after call came in from concerned friends and family. My Aunt in Salt Lake City was getting ready to drive to San Diego and pick Gracie and I up. My Grandmother was on the phone trying to get me a train ticket or rental car so I could go "Home" to Oregon where it was safe. A good friend who lived in Long Beach desperately wanted to come down and get Gracie and I.
By this time the Pentagon and Shanksville, PA had happened. More planes were still in the air. I know, I lived under the flight patterns in San Diego.
I watched out my window as planes were diverted to Mexico. I watched fighter jets "escort" incoming passenger planes. I listened as the constant hum of the air traffic became an infrequent interruption...startling me every time until finally the only sound was the occasional military jet or helicopter.
Chris told me from his perspective, he watched as military planes were being sent up so quickly they did it two at a time, one right after the last. He watched as the blips on the radar screens in the tower slowly started to disappear until finally there was nothing in the air.
Later that evening I walked outside my home. I needed air, I needed to get out. I felt trapped and just needed to walk away from the scenes on the tv for a moment.
Something strange happened. Many of my neighbors had apparently had the same idea. There was a decent handful of people just standing out there. People from every walk of life. Military families, waring gang members, college students, quick mart employees. Black, White, Mexican, Indian. It was indeed an American quilt.
People I never spoke to before that day. People I more than likely, never even looked in the eye before that day.
There we were, outside just staring. Each and every one of us was effected. We must have looked like a group of zombies wandering the street.
We looked at each other. Introduced ourselves, Shook each others hands. Hugged. Cried together.
I watched something truly amazing. There with our group were two neighbors. They came from rival gangs and I normally avoided them. They I would assume, avoided each other as well.
As one walked toward our little party, the other walked toward him, held out his hand and said "not today brother, not today" The first one took his hand, and they hugged.
I learned something in that moment. Something so profound that hasn't left me since. We are all Americans. We may disagree, or live vastly different lives but ultimately we are of the same family.
Unfortunately most Americans have forgotten the lesson. For a few months following the events of 9/11 we were one big family. I don't know when we collectively forgot that truth.
I just hope we can collectively remember before another 9/11 reminds us.
God Bless the USA and God Bless the men and women of American Airlines Flight, 11, United Airlines Flight 75, American Airlines Flight 77 and the heroes of United Flight 93.
The Firefighters, EMT's and Police, the office workers and the military who gave their lives that day.
I will never forget September 11, 2001.
Chris was stationed at Naval Air Station, North Island (Now Naval Base Coronado)
Work started for him at 6 in the morning, so with the rush hour commute he usually left our home around 5.
On his way to work he listened to the greatest radio dj's in existence. Jeff and Jer.
They were doing their normal morning routine when all of a sudden they announced "we're getting reports of a small plane crashing into the World Trade Center"
Chris listened....but assumed it was an accident. Still he was interested. He got to work and gave me a call. He knows I'm a news junkie and that Gracie would be waking up soon so he wanted me to know about the developing story out of New York City.
As I was on the phone with him I turned on the tv to the news. Within minutes the second plane hit.
All I could say was "Oh my God.....Oh my God!"
Chris realizing quicker than I had that this was no accident and he was on an air base in the military said he had to go....his final words to me in that conversation was "this is going to be bad"
I hung up the phone and quickly dialed my Mom in Oregon. She turned on the news, then hung up so she could call and tell my Grandmother the news.
I sat there, on my living room floor watching the events unfold.
I talked to Chris shortly after the first tower fell. I was talking to him when the second one came down.
I couldn't believe it. I honestly couldn't believe what I was seeing on the tv screen.
The base was being shut down. Only essential personal were allowed to stay. The downfall to my husband being a computer guru...he was essential personal. We had no idea when he would be allowed to leave the base. One thing was for sure, Gracie and I were alone in our house in San Diego...without a car.
Call after call came in from concerned friends and family. My Aunt in Salt Lake City was getting ready to drive to San Diego and pick Gracie and I up. My Grandmother was on the phone trying to get me a train ticket or rental car so I could go "Home" to Oregon where it was safe. A good friend who lived in Long Beach desperately wanted to come down and get Gracie and I.
By this time the Pentagon and Shanksville, PA had happened. More planes were still in the air. I know, I lived under the flight patterns in San Diego.
I watched out my window as planes were diverted to Mexico. I watched fighter jets "escort" incoming passenger planes. I listened as the constant hum of the air traffic became an infrequent interruption...startling me every time until finally the only sound was the occasional military jet or helicopter.
Chris told me from his perspective, he watched as military planes were being sent up so quickly they did it two at a time, one right after the last. He watched as the blips on the radar screens in the tower slowly started to disappear until finally there was nothing in the air.
Later that evening I walked outside my home. I needed air, I needed to get out. I felt trapped and just needed to walk away from the scenes on the tv for a moment.
Something strange happened. Many of my neighbors had apparently had the same idea. There was a decent handful of people just standing out there. People from every walk of life. Military families, waring gang members, college students, quick mart employees. Black, White, Mexican, Indian. It was indeed an American quilt.
People I never spoke to before that day. People I more than likely, never even looked in the eye before that day.
There we were, outside just staring. Each and every one of us was effected. We must have looked like a group of zombies wandering the street.
We looked at each other. Introduced ourselves, Shook each others hands. Hugged. Cried together.
I watched something truly amazing. There with our group were two neighbors. They came from rival gangs and I normally avoided them. They I would assume, avoided each other as well.
As one walked toward our little party, the other walked toward him, held out his hand and said "not today brother, not today" The first one took his hand, and they hugged.
I learned something in that moment. Something so profound that hasn't left me since. We are all Americans. We may disagree, or live vastly different lives but ultimately we are of the same family.
Unfortunately most Americans have forgotten the lesson. For a few months following the events of 9/11 we were one big family. I don't know when we collectively forgot that truth.
I just hope we can collectively remember before another 9/11 reminds us.
God Bless the USA and God Bless the men and women of American Airlines Flight, 11, United Airlines Flight 75, American Airlines Flight 77 and the heroes of United Flight 93.
The Firefighters, EMT's and Police, the office workers and the military who gave their lives that day.
I will never forget September 11, 2001.
August 24, 2009
an Open letter for Kori on Motherhood
My cousin Kori is about to embark on the most exhilarating ride of her life.
She is going to give birth to her very first child...a daughter. Tomorrow.
I adore my cousin. Her Mom isn't here to guide her. So I'm doing what I can (from 1000 miles away) to be there for her.
Today she told me they are going to induce her tomorrow morning. I tried to explain to her in a short email what to expect and what will change.
I didn't do it justice...so I'll try again here.
Having a child means never putting yourself first again....and you wouldn't want it any other way.
Having a child means for the first time in your life, you understand what "Unconditional Love" really means.
Your perspective of the world changes, the moment you bring that child home. Things that never crossed your mind before, consume you.
Like...is the kitchen tile cleaner going to harm her? I wonder what sort of chemicals are in the carpet? Are there any sex offenders living in my neighborhood? City? County?
An interesting change. Before children, you could go out and meet "people" and strike up a conversation. Once you have children, "people" are "strangers" and Strangers mean danger.
Nice young mothers, with children of their own are the only "safe" people you will talk to anymore.
Your world, your life and you will change the moment she is born. You've heard this before and it sounds a little scary...but I promise, it's worth it.
You will forget what life was like without her. You won't be able to imagine it. The world didn't exist until she was born.
Anything regarding a hurt, lost, hungry or homeless child will affect you. In ways it never did before. It sounds a little hippy but, you become a part of a larger family.
Motherhood is a condition. You can't turn it off. Every child that yells "Mom" in a store has 40 Mothers turn their head. We can't help it. You will be a part of our club.
Remember you have a family and friends who love you, Cameron and the baby. We are here. Sleep when she sleeps and enjoy the little things.
They grow up before you know it. You blink and wonder, "what happened to my baby" so enjoy the everyday moments while you can.
It is a fun, fascinating and sometimes scary ride, but in the end it's the best one you will ever take.
I love you my dear cousin and I can't wait to hold my "niece"
UPDATE: Kori had a beautiful baby girl on August 27. After almost two days of labor! Mommy and baby Ashlin are doing great.
We love you Kori, Cameron and Ashlin Jean!
She is going to give birth to her very first child...a daughter. Tomorrow.
I adore my cousin. Her Mom isn't here to guide her. So I'm doing what I can (from 1000 miles away) to be there for her.
Today she told me they are going to induce her tomorrow morning. I tried to explain to her in a short email what to expect and what will change.
I didn't do it justice...so I'll try again here.
Having a child means never putting yourself first again....and you wouldn't want it any other way.
Having a child means for the first time in your life, you understand what "Unconditional Love" really means.
Your perspective of the world changes, the moment you bring that child home. Things that never crossed your mind before, consume you.
Like...is the kitchen tile cleaner going to harm her? I wonder what sort of chemicals are in the carpet? Are there any sex offenders living in my neighborhood? City? County?
An interesting change. Before children, you could go out and meet "people" and strike up a conversation. Once you have children, "people" are "strangers" and Strangers mean danger.
Nice young mothers, with children of their own are the only "safe" people you will talk to anymore.
Your world, your life and you will change the moment she is born. You've heard this before and it sounds a little scary...but I promise, it's worth it.
You will forget what life was like without her. You won't be able to imagine it. The world didn't exist until she was born.
Anything regarding a hurt, lost, hungry or homeless child will affect you. In ways it never did before. It sounds a little hippy but, you become a part of a larger family.
Motherhood is a condition. You can't turn it off. Every child that yells "Mom" in a store has 40 Mothers turn their head. We can't help it. You will be a part of our club.
Remember you have a family and friends who love you, Cameron and the baby. We are here. Sleep when she sleeps and enjoy the little things.
They grow up before you know it. You blink and wonder, "what happened to my baby" so enjoy the everyday moments while you can.
It is a fun, fascinating and sometimes scary ride, but in the end it's the best one you will ever take.
I love you my dear cousin and I can't wait to hold my "niece"
UPDATE: Kori had a beautiful baby girl on August 27. After almost two days of labor! Mommy and baby Ashlin are doing great.
We love you Kori, Cameron and Ashlin Jean!
School, Seattle and Hackers Oh My!
Wow, it's been a while.
I have been so bad about staying on top of this with Chris home. It seems we are constantly busy with day trips, yard work and various other fun things.
So, last weekend Chris and I got away. I had won a night at a fabulous 5 star hotel in their luxury suite. Very nice. We were greeted on a first name basis by the concierge. He invited us to the wine tasting that evening. And had a bottle of VERY nice champagne waiting for us.
The suite was unbelievable. Half the size of my house! Canopy bed, top floor and a great view of the city.
That evening we went to the wine tasting...then enjoyed dinner at Benihana. The next morning we played tourist. A very strange thing to do in the city I grew up in.
We went to Pike Place and I showed off my knowledge of great little hole in the wall Chinese places as well as how to get away from all the tourists and find the really cool little shops hidden underneath.
I also showed off my skills by ducking not one, but two flying fish at the fish market. Yes indeed, I was told I MUST be a local...as I didn't even look to see where the fish were coming from I just knew to duck when I hear the humming.
Anyway, we had a great time. However during that same time, Chris' facebook account was hacked. Some bastard decided to log in as him and actually told people...Chris' brother included, that he was stuck in LONDON, had been mugged and needed money. Unfortunately...someone fell for it.
Now, I have to say...it was the nicest thing in the world to want to help Chris out. I feel really awful for him because he was scammed. But it's a lesson learned for everyone. If a friend chats with you on Facebook and tells you they were mugged and are stuck in London...do NOT send money!
As a consequence, Chris has canceled his facebook account. Sometimes I really hate people.
On a different subject....Gracie is about to start third grade. Seriously! Where did the time go?
A big third grader.
But before that big day, she has another one. Thursday she will be getting braces! Yep...they get them early these days.
She is getting the top front four teeth. In a year, she will have straight, together teeth! Hooray! She's excited and a little scared. Luckily, she knows a boy in her class who already has braces. He's a super cute, sweet kid so they will have something else to talk about now!
As soon as she has her new metal I will post a picture of her bright and shiny smile.
I have been so bad about staying on top of this with Chris home. It seems we are constantly busy with day trips, yard work and various other fun things.
So, last weekend Chris and I got away. I had won a night at a fabulous 5 star hotel in their luxury suite. Very nice. We were greeted on a first name basis by the concierge. He invited us to the wine tasting that evening. And had a bottle of VERY nice champagne waiting for us.
The suite was unbelievable. Half the size of my house! Canopy bed, top floor and a great view of the city.
That evening we went to the wine tasting...then enjoyed dinner at Benihana. The next morning we played tourist. A very strange thing to do in the city I grew up in.
We went to Pike Place and I showed off my knowledge of great little hole in the wall Chinese places as well as how to get away from all the tourists and find the really cool little shops hidden underneath.
I also showed off my skills by ducking not one, but two flying fish at the fish market. Yes indeed, I was told I MUST be a local...as I didn't even look to see where the fish were coming from I just knew to duck when I hear the humming.
Anyway, we had a great time. However during that same time, Chris' facebook account was hacked. Some bastard decided to log in as him and actually told people...Chris' brother included, that he was stuck in LONDON, had been mugged and needed money. Unfortunately...someone fell for it.
Now, I have to say...it was the nicest thing in the world to want to help Chris out. I feel really awful for him because he was scammed. But it's a lesson learned for everyone. If a friend chats with you on Facebook and tells you they were mugged and are stuck in London...do NOT send money!
As a consequence, Chris has canceled his facebook account. Sometimes I really hate people.
On a different subject....Gracie is about to start third grade. Seriously! Where did the time go?
A big third grader.
But before that big day, she has another one. Thursday she will be getting braces! Yep...they get them early these days.
She is getting the top front four teeth. In a year, she will have straight, together teeth! Hooray! She's excited and a little scared. Luckily, she knows a boy in her class who already has braces. He's a super cute, sweet kid so they will have something else to talk about now!
As soon as she has her new metal I will post a picture of her bright and shiny smile.
July 28, 2009
My daughter, the Irish dancer!
Gracie danced in her very first performance on Saturday!
She was amazing....and I'm not just saying that because I'm her Mom. She loved every second of it.
She's only been doing this for 4 months, but she's a natural!!!
I'm so proud!
July 12, 2009
Dolphins, Dance and Lightning
Oh my. It has been way to long. Sorry Melissa.
So much has happened. I hardly know where to start!
Most importantly, my husband came home from patrol. Hooray!
I got to go out and meet up with the boat (along with some other wives) and ride it back in. It was a great trip out. Some of the finest ladies I know were there. We enjoyed our bus ride and subsequent boat ride to meet the submarine. Chatting happily and occasionally breaking into song. (Thanks Cara)
After a few hours we met up with the sub. I boarded and was greeted down below by my handsome husband!
What a sight that is!
Gracie had won "first hug" so Chris was the first guy off the boat. Meaning she had to be there waiting when we got into port.
Thanks to my wonderful friend Melissa she was not only there waiting for her hug, she watched the boat come into the canal while enjoying a fabulous picnic lunch. Thanks again Melissa! She still talks about it!!!
Let's fast forward a few weeks.
Gracie is preparing for her upcoming dance recital. Irish dance. We have been spending many, many hours driving back and fourth to Kingston for practice. But, being as she started Irish dance in March...she has advanced in class already and is a natural. Her teacher is really impressed with her. So and I....of course!
The Fourth of July was spent first by watching the annual Third of July fireworks show in Poulsbo, which we can see from our neighborhood. Then on the Fourth, we went to our friends Dave and Carrie's for what has now become our tradition. You see, they were the very first "boat people" we met. They invited us last year, right after we moved here. Carrie and I became fast friends. At the party last year I was also introduced to a couple other wardroom wives. It was an amazing reception. They welcomed us with open arms and never in my life have I felt more welcome at a new duty station that I did here. Thanks Carrie!
So, we naturally headed to their house again this year. What could be better than alcohol and explosives?!
Now on to this week. On Wednesday I had a nice dinner with some great friends. We were saying goodbye to two of our wardroom wives. I got to chat with some wonderful ladies and say my goodbyes to my friend Suzanne. (I'm going to miss you!!!!) Who is off to Hawaii.
On Thursday I was invited by the Captain to join my husband at quarters so I could do the honor of pinning on his "Dolphins." Probably the single most important event in a submarine officers career.
He not only got his dolphins, he did it faster than anyone. I'm bragging, I know. But I am tremendously proud of him!
Gracie and I were there, standing with Chris in front of the entire boat to do the honors. It was so exciting!
Those are the highlights of the past month and a half. Yesterday and today we have enjoyed nonstop rain and thunderstorms. It has been wonderful! Up until yesterday, it has been sunny and hot.
Oh rain, how I love thee...let us never be apart!
I also missed a really good thunderstorm. The only redeeming quality of the South. So it has been an added bonus to see the flash and hear the crack of lightning.
Gracie also has been able to play her favorite game from when we lived in Charleston. 1, 2, 3.....lightning!!!
The rules are simple. You count to three and say lightning and try to say lightning as it's flashing. Works a lot better down there than it does here...but she has given it the college try!
Ok, I think that sums up all the highlights for now.
Wow...sorry I've been so distracted lately! That happens with the guys get home I guess. I'll try not to make it a habit!
So much has happened. I hardly know where to start!
Most importantly, my husband came home from patrol. Hooray!
I got to go out and meet up with the boat (along with some other wives) and ride it back in. It was a great trip out. Some of the finest ladies I know were there. We enjoyed our bus ride and subsequent boat ride to meet the submarine. Chatting happily and occasionally breaking into song. (Thanks Cara)
After a few hours we met up with the sub. I boarded and was greeted down below by my handsome husband!
What a sight that is!
Gracie had won "first hug" so Chris was the first guy off the boat. Meaning she had to be there waiting when we got into port.
Thanks to my wonderful friend Melissa she was not only there waiting for her hug, she watched the boat come into the canal while enjoying a fabulous picnic lunch. Thanks again Melissa! She still talks about it!!!
Let's fast forward a few weeks.
Gracie is preparing for her upcoming dance recital. Irish dance. We have been spending many, many hours driving back and fourth to Kingston for practice. But, being as she started Irish dance in March...she has advanced in class already and is a natural. Her teacher is really impressed with her. So and I....of course!
The Fourth of July was spent first by watching the annual Third of July fireworks show in Poulsbo, which we can see from our neighborhood. Then on the Fourth, we went to our friends Dave and Carrie's for what has now become our tradition. You see, they were the very first "boat people" we met. They invited us last year, right after we moved here. Carrie and I became fast friends. At the party last year I was also introduced to a couple other wardroom wives. It was an amazing reception. They welcomed us with open arms and never in my life have I felt more welcome at a new duty station that I did here. Thanks Carrie!
So, we naturally headed to their house again this year. What could be better than alcohol and explosives?!
Now on to this week. On Wednesday I had a nice dinner with some great friends. We were saying goodbye to two of our wardroom wives. I got to chat with some wonderful ladies and say my goodbyes to my friend Suzanne. (I'm going to miss you!!!!) Who is off to Hawaii.
On Thursday I was invited by the Captain to join my husband at quarters so I could do the honor of pinning on his "Dolphins." Probably the single most important event in a submarine officers career.
He not only got his dolphins, he did it faster than anyone. I'm bragging, I know. But I am tremendously proud of him!
Gracie and I were there, standing with Chris in front of the entire boat to do the honors. It was so exciting!
Those are the highlights of the past month and a half. Yesterday and today we have enjoyed nonstop rain and thunderstorms. It has been wonderful! Up until yesterday, it has been sunny and hot.
Oh rain, how I love thee...let us never be apart!
I also missed a really good thunderstorm. The only redeeming quality of the South. So it has been an added bonus to see the flash and hear the crack of lightning.
Gracie also has been able to play her favorite game from when we lived in Charleston. 1, 2, 3.....lightning!!!
The rules are simple. You count to three and say lightning and try to say lightning as it's flashing. Works a lot better down there than it does here...but she has given it the college try!
Ok, I think that sums up all the highlights for now.
Wow...sorry I've been so distracted lately! That happens with the guys get home I guess. I'll try not to make it a habit!
April 29, 2009
10 Years
10 years ago I married the man of my dreams.
In a little brick church, in a valley in the mountains.
I met my husband at work.
You see, my boss Renate, at the store where I worked, changed jobs to Wal-Mart of all places and she begged and pleaded with me to come work for her there.
I stood my ground and told her no way was I going to give up my relatively cool job with awesome discount perks to go work in the jewelry department at Wal-Mart!
She persisted and finally won me over with the prospect of health care, a bigger paycheck and really good looking guys in the next department.
Alas, I gave in....despite my better judgment.
On my very first day at my new job, my friend Justin was giving me a tour of all the departments. Directly across the aisle from my department was electronics.
Boy was Renate right. There were some seriously good looking guys in that department....this job may not be half bad!
I was introduced to them and this one tall blond and beautiful man stood out from the group. Justin informed me his name was "Stick."
Stick? Ok. Obviously a nickname and it didn't take a rocket scientist to figure out it had something to do with his 6'4" 165 lbs. body. He did resemble a stick quite a bit.
So a little time passes and I become friends with the electronics department boys. "Stick" is very flirty, amazingly smart, unbelievably handsome and super sweet to boot.
I had a serious crush.
Finally one day he asks me out to a movie. We had a large group of friends from work that we hung out with, and I half assumed they would be joining us. But when the time came it was just "Stick" and I.
I can still remember the butterflies in my stomach when I saw him standing there.
Our first date. We saw Contact. After the movie we went out to the marsh and watched Hale Bopp. Remember that comet?
So now lets fast forward a year. Same place. It's late at night because I had to close. It's pouring down rain. Stick, who I now call Chris picks me up from work. He packed a romantic picnic dinner of Taco Bell.
We park and eat our dinner. Finally he pulls a box out of his coat pocket and hands it to me.
"Will you do me the honor of becoming my wife" those were his words. I didn't even open the box and tears were streaming down my face as I screamed YES!!!!
Now, fast forward another year.
May 1, 1999. 6:30 PM on a Saturday. In a little brick church, in a valley in the mountains, by candlelight and with 350 witnesses I vowed to love him forever.
After we were married our lives drastically changed. He enlisted the Navy four months after our wedding.
We moved to Chicago for a year while he was in school. I got pregnant.
We moved to San Diego, California for four years. We had a baby.
We moved to Pullman, Washington for three years, for college. He was commissioned an officer in the Navy and accepted to the submarine program.
We moved to Charleston, South Carolina for a year and a half while he went through nuclear schools.
Finally we moved to Poulsbo, Washington and bought a home.
Through it all we grew stronger. Every hurdle he jumped, he did for us. Every day of hard work he put in, he did it for our little family.
Friday is our 10 year anniversary. And that man I said "I do" to is still the most handsome and wonderful man on Earth. He is my world. I am so grateful to have the honor of saying I am his Wife.
So today I am looking at the pictures of a gray Saturday evening. In a little brick church, in a valley in the mountains where I vowed to love him forever.
Happy Anniversary Chris. I love you forever.
March 31, 2009
V is for Volcanoes are awesome!!!
Well, not awesome with the massive destruction and spewing of hot rocks and choking ash.
But awesome because they make the planes stop.
Bad for the people on those plane sure.....But Great if one of those people is my extra super awesomely amazing sister-in-law who I haven't seen in a couple years!
Confused yet?
So there I was sitting at the computer, reading thenews LoLCats, when my brother-in law called.
Seems his wife and her sister are heading up to Alaska and were told "Nope, no way Jose. Mount Redoubt is blowing her top off as we speak"
So after we talked briefly about the situation and my approximate distance to SeaTac airport my sister-in-law called.
She is currently trying to rebook her flight, but will most likely be spending at least the night at Casa Abplanalp.
Yay!
Do you think she'll mind the full "slumber party" activities? Paint our nails, do our hair, make a fort in the living room?
A girl can dream.
UPDATE: Sadly, my awesomely amazing sissy was able to get on another flight and left before the slumber party. Thankfully they made it safe and sound. I'll keep the party supplies for the next time.
But awesome because they make the planes stop.
Bad for the people on those plane sure.....But Great if one of those people is my extra super awesomely amazing sister-in-law who I haven't seen in a couple years!
Confused yet?
So there I was sitting at the computer, reading the
Seems his wife and her sister are heading up to Alaska and were told "Nope, no way Jose. Mount Redoubt is blowing her top off as we speak"
So after we talked briefly about the situation and my approximate distance to SeaTac airport my sister-in-law called.
She is currently trying to rebook her flight, but will most likely be spending at least the night at Casa Abplanalp.
Yay!
Do you think she'll mind the full "slumber party" activities? Paint our nails, do our hair, make a fort in the living room?
A girl can dream.
UPDATE: Sadly, my awesomely amazing sissy was able to get on another flight and left before the slumber party. Thankfully they made it safe and sound. I'll keep the party supplies for the next time.
March 25, 2009
G is for....Gracie is Gifted!!!
Yes, you read that right!
Warning: Conspicuous Parental gloating. Read with caution!
Today I had my tri-annual parent teacher conference. You know, where you sit in little chairs in your child's classroom while the teacher tells you all about what they are learning, where they are strongest and where they need improvement.
Ok, so first I have to say I have serious "teacher anxiety." Some subconscious impulse in my brain tells me that I'm going to get in trouble for passing notes or whispering to Sarah. If I know the teacher well enough I get over it. Like Gracie's kindergarten teacher in Pullman was a good friend of mine and her kindergarten/first grade teacher in South Carolina I got to know on a first name basis after a year and a half working together. Not to mention she was almost a decade younger than me. I know, scary. But I digress....
Gracie's second grade teacher....is much older than me and reminds me of a composite drawing of all my elementary school teachers combined.
So there I am, sitting in the little chair at the little desk waiting to be told I can't pass notes anymore. We go over her papers. She's doing great in math, reads at a 6th grade level but I am assured that she can read much higher. Perhaps not comprehend the material but can read at an 9th grade level "at least." She told me the highest the test goes is sixth grade but Gracie is higher. Ok...good. She reads 182 words a minute and can comprehend what she read. Good. Very good.
She told me she is sensitive and mature, kind, considerate, organized, focused and responsible. Ok, I know most of these things...however the 8 year old girl who lives in this house hasn't cleaned her room in roughly 8 years, and is slightly spastic and hyper. But I'm glad to know at school at least, she is "organized, focused and responsible." Especially considering my biggest gripe from teachers was I daydreamed to much and wasn't organized.
So far, so good.
So then she tells me areas that need attention. Handwriting. Surprise. It's a genetic trait. My husband writes like a brilliant doctor on crack and my teachers always got after me about sloppy penmanship. Her teacher noted that Gracie seems to be in a "race" to be done the fastest. So she writes sloppy in her effort to be first.
Could be worse.
Then she pulls out the test scores. Recently they took a gifted program cognitive abilities test. Guess what, Gracie is in the 98% in the nation!
She is officially "gifted!" It's on her permanent record and everything!
As if I were somehow slow in comparison, she spelled it out for me. "If you take 100 random students from all over the country, she would be smarter than 98" I had to laugh a little. I'm sure the drool puddle and mouth agape may have made her think I wasn't the sharpest crayon in the box, but I assure you, I was just stunned.
Next year she will take part in their gifted student program and as her teacher kindly pointed out, is on the right path to "Harvard or MIT" Wow! MIT and she's only in second grade!!!
Ok, so she will have to actually finish elementary school first. Then high school.....but Wow!
My baby is like, all smart and stuff! I for some unknown reason am having a total Bill and Ted moment trying to describe it. But I am unbelievably proud of her.
Congratulations Gracie! You Rock!!!!
Warning: Conspicuous Parental gloating. Read with caution!
Today I had my tri-annual parent teacher conference. You know, where you sit in little chairs in your child's classroom while the teacher tells you all about what they are learning, where they are strongest and where they need improvement.
Ok, so first I have to say I have serious "teacher anxiety." Some subconscious impulse in my brain tells me that I'm going to get in trouble for passing notes or whispering to Sarah. If I know the teacher well enough I get over it. Like Gracie's kindergarten teacher in Pullman was a good friend of mine and her kindergarten/first grade teacher in South Carolina I got to know on a first name basis after a year and a half working together. Not to mention she was almost a decade younger than me. I know, scary. But I digress....
Gracie's second grade teacher....is much older than me and reminds me of a composite drawing of all my elementary school teachers combined.
So there I am, sitting in the little chair at the little desk waiting to be told I can't pass notes anymore. We go over her papers. She's doing great in math, reads at a 6th grade level but I am assured that she can read much higher. Perhaps not comprehend the material but can read at an 9th grade level "at least." She told me the highest the test goes is sixth grade but Gracie is higher. Ok...good. She reads 182 words a minute and can comprehend what she read. Good. Very good.
She told me she is sensitive and mature, kind, considerate, organized, focused and responsible. Ok, I know most of these things...however the 8 year old girl who lives in this house hasn't cleaned her room in roughly 8 years, and is slightly spastic and hyper. But I'm glad to know at school at least, she is "organized, focused and responsible." Especially considering my biggest gripe from teachers was I daydreamed to much and wasn't organized.
So far, so good.
So then she tells me areas that need attention. Handwriting. Surprise. It's a genetic trait. My husband writes like a brilliant doctor on crack and my teachers always got after me about sloppy penmanship. Her teacher noted that Gracie seems to be in a "race" to be done the fastest. So she writes sloppy in her effort to be first.
Could be worse.
Then she pulls out the test scores. Recently they took a gifted program cognitive abilities test. Guess what, Gracie is in the 98% in the nation!
She is officially "gifted!" It's on her permanent record and everything!
As if I were somehow slow in comparison, she spelled it out for me. "If you take 100 random students from all over the country, she would be smarter than 98" I had to laugh a little. I'm sure the drool puddle and mouth agape may have made her think I wasn't the sharpest crayon in the box, but I assure you, I was just stunned.
Next year she will take part in their gifted student program and as her teacher kindly pointed out, is on the right path to "Harvard or MIT" Wow! MIT and she's only in second grade!!!
Ok, so she will have to actually finish elementary school first. Then high school.....but Wow!
My baby is like, all smart and stuff! I for some unknown reason am having a total Bill and Ted moment trying to describe it. But I am unbelievably proud of her.
Congratulations Gracie! You Rock!!!!
March 21, 2009
God Speed Boys.....
Today is the day. The other woman aka the USS Kentucky took my husband on a Pacific cruise for a few months. Of course being a vengeful harpy, she decided he needed to leave his family at roughly the same time the bars close.
Needless to say it was pitch black, cold and miserable when we dropped him off. The goodbyes went as smoothly as they can in that situation.
Chris and I do our very best to "rip the band-aid off quickly" as we like to say. In other words, we hate long goodbyes and getting teary eyed. So to an outsider, we look like it's just another day. A quick hug and kiss then he's off. To the rest of the world it may seem cold and unattached but it's how we cope with goodbyes. Not to mention, I have to teach my daughter that it's ok to cry, but it's not ok to dwell on it. I know people who focus on the negative and teach their kids that it's ok to get sympathy for it.
This is our life. This is what we do. This way of life puts a roof over our heads, food on our table and clothes on our backs. It's normal to miss Daddy, but we have to deal with it. Stiff upper lip.
Gracie is awesome. She handles deployments like a trooper. I am so proud of her. She cried a little this morning, but was thrilled to see the sub leave and waved and yelled and was all smiles when her Daddy's boat went by. Don't get me wrong, she is a total Daddy's girl...but she is proud of him and what he does. She knows his job is important and doesn't resent him when he has to leave.
Oops...I got sidetracked. Anyway, he is gone. Off to save the world and play hide and seek.
Oh...did I mention he was driving the boat today? Yeah, he was. Pretty cool huh? That's an awesome sight, a submarine. Then top it off with "my husband is in control of that" Wow!!! How many people can say that?? Like .0000005 % of the worlds population? Yeah....I'm a little proud. Thanks for noticing.
Needless to say it was pitch black, cold and miserable when we dropped him off. The goodbyes went as smoothly as they can in that situation.
Chris and I do our very best to "rip the band-aid off quickly" as we like to say. In other words, we hate long goodbyes and getting teary eyed. So to an outsider, we look like it's just another day. A quick hug and kiss then he's off. To the rest of the world it may seem cold and unattached but it's how we cope with goodbyes. Not to mention, I have to teach my daughter that it's ok to cry, but it's not ok to dwell on it. I know people who focus on the negative and teach their kids that it's ok to get sympathy for it.
This is our life. This is what we do. This way of life puts a roof over our heads, food on our table and clothes on our backs. It's normal to miss Daddy, but we have to deal with it. Stiff upper lip.
Gracie is awesome. She handles deployments like a trooper. I am so proud of her. She cried a little this morning, but was thrilled to see the sub leave and waved and yelled and was all smiles when her Daddy's boat went by. Don't get me wrong, she is a total Daddy's girl...but she is proud of him and what he does. She knows his job is important and doesn't resent him when he has to leave.
Oops...I got sidetracked. Anyway, he is gone. Off to save the world and play hide and seek.
Oh...did I mention he was driving the boat today? Yeah, he was. Pretty cool huh? That's an awesome sight, a submarine. Then top it off with "my husband is in control of that" Wow!!! How many people can say that?? Like .0000005 % of the worlds population? Yeah....I'm a little proud. Thanks for noticing.
March 19, 2009
Fun with the Fishes
Yesterday I chaperoned Gracie's class field trip to the aquarium.
100 second graders (5 classes), a ferry boat, a five block walk and a crowded public building filled with hundreds of others second graders. That my friends is a recipe for fun and excitement!
I was lucky. I had Gracie and three of her closest friends in my group. So it wasn't so bad. But man alive, what a zoo.
The aquarium has undergone some renovations and looks fantastic. A lot of the place is the same as I remember when I was little and driving my own Mom crazy on a field trip, but so much has changed.
The kids loved the sea lions, otters and harbor seals. They played and hammed it up for the kids. That was a treat. The touch pool was another hit. Lots of ewwww's and yucks when they touched the sea cucumbers and starfish. The Giant Pacific Octopus was another big hit. He tried to climb out of the mammoth tank, much to the delight of my daughter and her friends.
I also learned a few things. On the ferry ride home one of Gracie's friends told me that his Mom never volunteered for anything at school because "her job is to important." So I asked him where she worked. He told me the name of a Doctor's office locally and I replied that "yes, a doctor is a very important job and people really need her to be at work" you know, trying to make him feel better. He then replied "oh she's not a doctor, she sits at a desk and plays on the computer and talks to people on the phone all day" then he took a long pause and added "come to think of it, that's not very important because that's what she does at home too"
So I think I just sent this poor boy into a sudden realization that his Mom doesn't take an active interest in him or his school. Oops!
Other than early therapy for the friend...it was a successful day. Gracie and I had a great time and plan to get back there very soon. It was a lot of walking and my thighs are angry with me and currently not speaking to me, but they'll get over it and thank me for the exercise when they feel better.
100 second graders (5 classes), a ferry boat, a five block walk and a crowded public building filled with hundreds of others second graders. That my friends is a recipe for fun and excitement!
I was lucky. I had Gracie and three of her closest friends in my group. So it wasn't so bad. But man alive, what a zoo.
The aquarium has undergone some renovations and looks fantastic. A lot of the place is the same as I remember when I was little and driving my own Mom crazy on a field trip, but so much has changed.
The kids loved the sea lions, otters and harbor seals. They played and hammed it up for the kids. That was a treat. The touch pool was another hit. Lots of ewwww's and yucks when they touched the sea cucumbers and starfish. The Giant Pacific Octopus was another big hit. He tried to climb out of the mammoth tank, much to the delight of my daughter and her friends.
I also learned a few things. On the ferry ride home one of Gracie's friends told me that his Mom never volunteered for anything at school because "her job is to important." So I asked him where she worked. He told me the name of a Doctor's office locally and I replied that "yes, a doctor is a very important job and people really need her to be at work" you know, trying to make him feel better. He then replied "oh she's not a doctor, she sits at a desk and plays on the computer and talks to people on the phone all day" then he took a long pause and added "come to think of it, that's not very important because that's what she does at home too"
So I think I just sent this poor boy into a sudden realization that his Mom doesn't take an active interest in him or his school. Oops!
Other than early therapy for the friend...it was a successful day. Gracie and I had a great time and plan to get back there very soon. It was a lot of walking and my thighs are angry with me and currently not speaking to me, but they'll get over it and thank me for the exercise when they feel better.
March 17, 2009
Happy Birthday Chris
Happy Birthday to you
You live in a Zoo
You look like a monkey
and you smell like one too!
Ok he actually looks very handsome and smells like Kenneth Cole Reaction...but I digress....
Today Chris turns 31. My 6'4" leprechaun isn't hiding a pot of gold, just himself. However I do know where to find him...he's hiding on a submarine.
Happy Birthday Chris, we love you more than life!!!!
You live in a Zoo
You look like a monkey
and you smell like one too!
Ok he actually looks very handsome and smells like Kenneth Cole Reaction...but I digress....
Today Chris turns 31. My 6'4" leprechaun isn't hiding a pot of gold, just himself. However I do know where to find him...he's hiding on a submarine.
Happy Birthday Chris, we love you more than life!!!!
February 25, 2009
Fun in the backyard
Here are some old videos from the Abplanalp vault. I recently got a new shiny computer that loves me and when we downloaded all the old stuff off my hard drive it was kind enough to categorize it and put it all together in a shiny new folder. Then it makes my life super easy by allowing me to touch the screen and voila! Watch precious videos of my baby girl. So, I decided I would share the wealth. I thought you would enjoy some video of Gracie...age 3.
Enjoy!
Enjoy!
February 23, 2009
Rest and Relaxation
This weekend my wonderful husband treated me to a mini vacation. Away from children, phones, computers and everything else that occupies my time.
We drove across the Hood Canal bridge and up the peninsula to Port Ludlow. The Inn at Port Ludlow to be exact.
Wow! What an amazing place. It was less than a 20 minute drive from our house but it felt like we ran away to another country. It was so unbelievably quiet and peaceful.
Being the off season, the small resort with only has 37 rooms, was extra quiet with Chris and I making up 1/6 of the population. It was as if we had the entire place to ourselves.
Our room was absolutely amazing. A Fireplace, deck with a sweeping view of the harbor and a jacuzzi tub with a wall that opens up so you can see that incredible view!
This was my very first night away from Gracie. Well, that's not exactly true. She has had sleepovers before. Albeit very few, but I was always home...worrying. Chris has been away from her because the Navy for some unknown reason, doesn't allow children to go on deployment. But me, I have never left my home for the evening without her. So it was a little strange at first...but the resort was so peaceful that I quickly accepted it and moved on.
There is something truly amazing about the water around here. One day feels like 10. But in a good way. Saturday we were sitting on our deck and realized we had only been there for a handful of hours but it felt so relaxed that we could have sworn it had been days.
Chris will be deployed for our 10th anniversary...so this was our celebration. Just a little early. So when we returned home he had a gift waiting for me. A super, incredible all in one HP touch screen computer!!!
Now that he is back on duty, I'm spending all my free time learning my new shiny super computer.
My gift to him wasn't nearly as jaw dropping. I made him a mixed tape.... Ok, CD. All the songs that have somehow attached themselves to our life these past 12 years. Starting with the song that started it all. Pachabel's Canon in D.
So that was my wonderful weekend. If you ever get over this way I highly recommend the Inn at Port Ludlow!
February 14, 2009
Birthday Luau or the truth about Hawaiian Pizza
42 and cloudy is not your typical weather conditions for Hawaii, but nobody seemed to mind. Our living room and dining room here in Washington State were transformed into the sunny shores of Hawaii for Gracie's Luau birthday party.
We had a beach cake, palm trees (some complete with monkeys...though I'm not sure what that has to do with Hawaii) grass skirts (even one for the table), lei's, flowers for the hair, Hawaiian breeze (brought to us by my Mother-in-Law who graciously stopped by the store and bought tropical breeze air spray) and of course Hawaiian music.
For the "luau" portion of today's events, we had Hawaiian Punch and Hawaiian Pizza. Yes, it is a little like saying French fries are from France, but MOST of the kids didn't seem to mind. One very bright party goer did point out that "It's not really Hawaiian because it has Canadian bacon on it" she then went on to add "but it's my favorite so I don't mind"
After the luau, the kids played games. Hula Hoops of course! We had a hula hoop contest which somehow progressed into a jump rope contest. Which then naturally progressed into Hide and Seek....Hawaiian style.
It is amazing when you get a group of kids together the games take on a life of their own.
Hawaiian style hide and seek by the way, has very simple rules I was informed by another one of party. Once you are found, you and "IT" have to race for the base while Hula dancing. Of course!
About this time the sun decided to make an apperance at the Luau. So for a brief time, and if you wore a jacket, it was bright, the sky was deep blue and the sun was shining like the beaches of Waikiki.
After Hawaiian hide and seek they came back inside (because it was still 42 degrees out there) and decided to...what else....hula dance! Surprisingly, one of the boys was pretty good!
Then it was time for presents. What a haul!! These kids brought puzzles, games, dolls, one girl brought two beautiful sweaters from Nordstrom!
Then naturally they were ready for cake and ice cream. Chocolate with cherry filling and their choice of vanilla or tropical sherbet! But first we had a very rousing rendition of "Happy Birthday" complete with popping sounds, monkey noises and beeps! And considering half the party goers call her Clare and the other half call her Gracie they decided before the singing portion of the event began, to all sing "Gracie Clare" at the appropriate place in the song.
On a side note: I have to say, Central Market has the BEST cake I have ever tasted. Just an FYI for anyone in the area. They actually used real cherries for the filling. So good I almost had a second piece!
Anyway, about this time the parents started arriving and the kids said their goodbyes. The Luau was a hit.
I can best sum it up with the parting words of one of Gracie's little girlfriends, "Mrs. Clare's Mom, this was the best birthday party ever!"
We had a beach cake, palm trees (some complete with monkeys...though I'm not sure what that has to do with Hawaii) grass skirts (even one for the table), lei's, flowers for the hair, Hawaiian breeze (brought to us by my Mother-in-Law who graciously stopped by the store and bought tropical breeze air spray) and of course Hawaiian music.
For the "luau" portion of today's events, we had Hawaiian Punch and Hawaiian Pizza. Yes, it is a little like saying French fries are from France, but MOST of the kids didn't seem to mind. One very bright party goer did point out that "It's not really Hawaiian because it has Canadian bacon on it" she then went on to add "but it's my favorite so I don't mind"
After the luau, the kids played games. Hula Hoops of course! We had a hula hoop contest which somehow progressed into a jump rope contest. Which then naturally progressed into Hide and Seek....Hawaiian style.
It is amazing when you get a group of kids together the games take on a life of their own.
Hawaiian style hide and seek by the way, has very simple rules I was informed by another one of party. Once you are found, you and "IT" have to race for the base while Hula dancing. Of course!
About this time the sun decided to make an apperance at the Luau. So for a brief time, and if you wore a jacket, it was bright, the sky was deep blue and the sun was shining like the beaches of Waikiki.
After Hawaiian hide and seek they came back inside (because it was still 42 degrees out there) and decided to...what else....hula dance! Surprisingly, one of the boys was pretty good!
Then it was time for presents. What a haul!! These kids brought puzzles, games, dolls, one girl brought two beautiful sweaters from Nordstrom!
Then naturally they were ready for cake and ice cream. Chocolate with cherry filling and their choice of vanilla or tropical sherbet! But first we had a very rousing rendition of "Happy Birthday" complete with popping sounds, monkey noises and beeps! And considering half the party goers call her Clare and the other half call her Gracie they decided before the singing portion of the event began, to all sing "Gracie Clare" at the appropriate place in the song.
On a side note: I have to say, Central Market has the BEST cake I have ever tasted. Just an FYI for anyone in the area. They actually used real cherries for the filling. So good I almost had a second piece!
Anyway, about this time the parents started arriving and the kids said their goodbyes. The Luau was a hit.
I can best sum it up with the parting words of one of Gracie's little girlfriends, "Mrs. Clare's Mom, this was the best birthday party ever!"
February 13, 2009
Birthday Girl
Yesterday was Gracie's 8th birthday. Eight years old. I can vividly remember the day she came into the world. It seems like yesterday. A beautiful tiny little baby who couldn't even hold her head up.
I remember the first day she smiled only three weeks later. A real, not from gas smile. She has continued to smile that same sweet smile every single day since. And now, she is officially a "tweener" That place between little girl and teenage girl. God help me.
She loves all the tween things. Tinkerbell, Barbies, Hannah Montana, The Jonas Brothers, iCarly and so on. I have to listen to Radio Disney every morning during breakfast now that she is old enough to work the XM radio. She dances and sings along to all the tween songs. She is growing up so fast.
So yesterday she had a fabulous birthday. She of course had school, but afterward she wanted to go to Outback for her birthday dinner. She ordered steak. A first. Usually it's their absolutely amazing mac n' cheese. But yesterday, a grown up meal.
We came home after a quick stop at Starbucks where she ordered a Chai Tea Latte. Then home to open presents.
I think her favorite was the Tinkerbell music box/jewelry box from Angela and her family. Followed by the $100 in Barnes and Noble gift cards from various other people. See, the only thing she asked for were Barnes and Noble gift cards.
She also loved her Tinkerbell and Nintendogs games for her Nintendo DS. And the money from her Grandpa and Aunt were icing on the cake. WAY to generous. Thank you.
After the presents, we sang a very lively rendition of "Happy Birthday" and she blew out her 8 candles on her Chocolate Cherry birthday cake.
Finally it was bedtime. Where my half grown daughter takes my hand and says "Mommy, I'm not THAT old yet, can I sleep in your room tonight?"
Of course we let her....we're not going to let her grow up to fast.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY GRACIE!!!!
I remember the first day she smiled only three weeks later. A real, not from gas smile. She has continued to smile that same sweet smile every single day since. And now, she is officially a "tweener" That place between little girl and teenage girl. God help me.
She loves all the tween things. Tinkerbell, Barbies, Hannah Montana, The Jonas Brothers, iCarly and so on. I have to listen to Radio Disney every morning during breakfast now that she is old enough to work the XM radio. She dances and sings along to all the tween songs. She is growing up so fast.
So yesterday she had a fabulous birthday. She of course had school, but afterward she wanted to go to Outback for her birthday dinner. She ordered steak. A first. Usually it's their absolutely amazing mac n' cheese. But yesterday, a grown up meal.
We came home after a quick stop at Starbucks where she ordered a Chai Tea Latte. Then home to open presents.
I think her favorite was the Tinkerbell music box/jewelry box from Angela and her family. Followed by the $100 in Barnes and Noble gift cards from various other people. See, the only thing she asked for were Barnes and Noble gift cards.
She also loved her Tinkerbell and Nintendogs games for her Nintendo DS. And the money from her Grandpa and Aunt were icing on the cake. WAY to generous. Thank you.
After the presents, we sang a very lively rendition of "Happy Birthday" and she blew out her 8 candles on her Chocolate Cherry birthday cake.
Finally it was bedtime. Where my half grown daughter takes my hand and says "Mommy, I'm not THAT old yet, can I sleep in your room tonight?"
Of course we let her....we're not going to let her grow up to fast.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY GRACIE!!!!
September 4, 2008
What's in a Name.....
So yesterday was Gracie's first day of second grade. More importantly, it was her first day at a new school. Her third in three years, but new none-the-less.
So, there we are, meeting the teacher. Her super sweet teacher knew she had a nickname (Gracie is actually a nickname) and asked her, so what would you like me to call you? Gracie quickly responds "Clare." I looked at her....totally dumbfounded and said "but you haven't been called Clare, a day in your life. Will you even respond to that name?" She assured me that she would and that was that. She has started introducing herself as Clare to everyone. Her ballet teacher, classmates, bus driver and music teacher. So, now everyone here knows her only as Clare.
She said those of us who have called her Gracie all her life, can still continue to do so...but everyone new has to call her Clare. Ok. Her teacher said she's "exerting her independence." I say my baby is growing up!
I don't have a problem with the name Clare...if I did, we wouldn't have named her that....but she's Gracie. Always has been. I'm trying to get used to it. I try to call her Clare at home so I can get comfortable using the name with her, and not my friend Clare who she was named after. But old habits die hard. It's like I'm talking about someone totally different. Not to mention, it's still a nickname version of her first name. Her real name is Clara!
When I asked her why she suddenly wanted a name change she said "well, if Selma calls and says Gracie, I'll know it's Selma or one of my old friends. If Maddie calls and says Clare, I'll know it's one of my new friends." I asked "so do Maddie and Selma have the same voice?" and she responded with a very chipper "nope" and a sly smile. I have to give her credit...it was a clever excuse.
Oh well, it could be worse. My neighbor and I were laughing about Gracie.....I mean Clare's new love of her first name and she told me how her son Logan has also changed his name this year...nobody can call him anything but Boomer.
So for those of you who call her Gracie, she's fine with that...but anyone who meets her please refer to her as...Clare.
I am so totally seeing therapy in her future. Split personalities.
Other than that, second grade has turned out to be teriffic. She loves her teacher, loves her school, loves her uniform, loves her classmates....except Spencer....loves riding the bus. It's a regular lovefest. And Clare is growing up.
January 3, 2008
A Tribute to my Uncle Bob Hawes
Yesterday afternoon I got a phone call. One I wasn't expecting (do we ever expect it) my Uncle Bob passed away.
Of course I'm sad at the loss. He was an amazing man, but I am grateful at how quickly he went.
He was healthy, happy and feeling better than he had in years. He spent the holidays surrounded by family. Traveled to the coast then enjoyed football games at home on New Years Day. He was in high spirits.
Then, yesterday mid-morning, he and my Aunt were in the living room reading the paper and chatting. He got up from his chair to get something from the kitchen. According to my Aunt, still laughing about something that had just been said, when he took 4 steps and fell to the floor. Dead before he hit the ground. If that's not the way to go....I don't know what is.
My Aunt, a true lady. Has a good stiff upper lip. She has always been sort of a hero of mine simply because she is so poised, elegant and gracious. She is fiercely independent and will be able to handle this with the same grace and wisdom she employs in all aspects of her life.
My Uncle, what an amazing man. He has seen and done it all. I could mention any place on the planet and he would have been there, flew over it or bombed it. I swear he knew almost everyone who lived in Eastern Oregon. At my wedding, he was standing at the door shaking hands with everyone walking in (as if he were part of my receiving line). Mind you, he lived 45 miles away in a different town. But he knew them all. Humble, that man was so modest. Though he knew dignitaries, was a decorated war veteran and a successful business executive he never once boasted. He loved his family. He would have done anything for all of us. He had this laugh, just thinking about it brings a smile to my face. His nose would turn red then his cheeks (it's the Irish) he would sort of laugh under his breath until he couldn't hold it in any longer then out came the hardy belly laugh. He adored family and tradition. In return, we all cherished him.
I am honored to have known him. I am honored that he shared his stories with me. I am honored that he was a part of my life. I am honored to be his niece.
Rest in Peace Uncle Bob. I love you.
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