ConnmusicToo

Sam's Band Concert

2011-12-12T15:59:00.001-08:00

Sammie had her Band Concert the following week. She did a lovely solo and we were very proud of her! Good job Sam! :D (Jen, Sam & Drew)

Alex's first Jr High Band Concert

2011-12-10T13:36:00.000-08:00

Alex played in her first Jr High band concert earlier this month. She played beautifully! We were very proud of her. Good job Alex! :D

Sam & Drew on the night of their First Formal Dance Together

2011-10-23T07:52:00.000-07:00

Sam and Andrew have been going steady for a few months now. Last night was their first formal dance of the year. Samantha said she had the very best time. We are so glad!

Sam on Era Day at School

2011-10-23T07:51:00.000-07:00

The 1950's ~ Sam and I created a poodle skirt for the occasion. She was so cute!

A Fall Day Off

2011-10-11T10:26:00.001-07:00

A Fall Day Off

I awake with expectation

of time alone, sun thats shown,

warmth on my face, a walk to embrace

yet

as day turns south, and sun blanks out

to house and home, responsibility hones

love, embrace, smiling warm face

life

We can for all our days search to find that which breathes happiness to our souls, or rather simply live.

To that end I age. :) Simply. The greying hair comes, wrinkles with my smile.

The pursuing to the end of life, the meaning thereof, is not my pleasurable pass time. I find it boring and exhausting the older I get. The "meaning" of life is just that, live. :D

We get such a short turn on this road, make yours count!

I'm on my first vacation of this year and I find I'm the happiest I've ever been. Ever. Life is such a blessed event, to be shared and loved. Full of rich memories, colorful textures and wonderfully sinful treats! :D

(((HUGS)))

September came and went...

2011-10-02T05:49:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how fast the weeks pass by now. We are already into fall. (My favorite season of the year!) :)

Our children are growing up by leaps and bounds.

Sam made jazz band. :D She is just wrapping up her Football Season of cheerleading by the end of this month and will move on to Basketball cheerleading. She has been dating her new boyfriend, Andy, for a whole month. And still working her first job on the weekends, while fitting in an evening of Tae Kwon-Doe. Her grades are great and she is getting over her first cold of this season. (If not for the cough, Sam is healthy and happy!)

Alex has embraced JR High with such a passion. She jumped right in to being a morning announcer and trying for Vice President. After getting her petition signed with enough names, she was added to a list for the first round of voting. When they narrow it to only two, the se-vies (seventh graders) can begin campaigning. ;) She is doing so well in band that the teacher asked her to be part of his jazz band, she declined for fear she was taking on too much. She wants to keep up her grades. She stays after in art and will be in several art shows this year. (Big Surprise there! :D) Alex has taken up running this year and is getting so good! She keeps beating her own record by getting faster and faster. She loves running! And she also fits in Tae Kwon-Doe once a week. (Alex is healthy, happy and growing!)

They are amazing young women who daily surprise me with their love of life and abilities. What a joy to be a parent. :)

Adam and I are so grateful for all that we have, life is good...we feel so blessed. Here is hoping that your world is equally so! (((HUGS)))

Sam's First Date

2011-09-29T18:41:00.000-07:00

Sam had her first date with Andrew Harvey Jr! She had such a great time. He's a really nice young man and we are so happy for them.

Catching Up

2011-08-07T04:44:00.000-07:00

Sorry it has taken me so long to put anything new on our blogs. I'm simply busy with work and with life, but it is all good. I just finished updating until the end of July. I still have family reunion pics to add from Joe and Elaine Cardinal's house (which they are many :D), but haven't had a chance to pull them off my phone yet. When I do there will be photos galore as well as a few videos. ;)

We just spent the best week ever with Adam's whole family. Jeremy, Andrea and the boys came in for a whole week. My gosh what a blessing it was to see them all and watch the boys...be boys! I loved each of their sweet ways. Ian is intense with eye to eye contact, Sawyer is a bit more shy and loves to climb any and everything in his path (always in Batman attire if he has his way) and little Gavin is a lover bug. They are all smart handsome and fun. We had the very best time and miss them already.

Thank you for making that LONG trip out to see us all. We loved getting to see you all. (((HUGS)))

The Christian School Reunion

2011-08-07T04:33:00.000-07:00

All the children in Adam's family grew up in Christian School and this year, their cousin Jennifer decided it was time all of them get back together and catch up. It was a lively evening of good food, funny stories and great music! :D Adam, Jeremy, Chris and Joe got together to bring back a few songs from the True Believer and Refuge Albums. What fun! Good times.

Alex gets to shave!

2011-08-07T04:29:00.000-07:00

She waited patiently until she hit Jr High, and over the last weekend Alex and I sat side by side while she shaved her legs for the first time. She has had an electric razor for this job for years now. I didn't want either of them to not be able to shave, but razors with blades can nick the skin and hurt, so...I made them both wait until 7th grade to use them. Alex's time has finally come and she is thrilled to have smooth legs. :D Weren't we all the first time we did this! Our baby has 5 months and she will officially be a teenager.

Sammie's First Job!

2011-08-07T04:23:00.001-07:00

We all knew it was bound to happen, but wow, our daughter is of working age! Amazing how fast time flies. She has put in her first week and is running the register now. She loves the people she works with and feels blessed to have found something before going back to school. We feel blessed that she is such a go getter! Congratulations Samantha.

Vacation Away

2011-08-06T15:30:00.000-07:00

Adam and I set out for adventure the weekend of my birthday in July. It was such a lovely night and we felt like newlyweds. It was an amazing night. Full of beautiful sights on the way down. We made excellent time. We got to the hotel and relaxed. Waking early for breakfast at IHOP, yummmmmm. Then we were of for shopping. It was so good to get away. We haven't done this since, we can't remember when. It gave us happy thoughts and dreams about our future together when our girls are all grown. Thank you Adam for our special weekend and to Mom and Dad Conn for spending some one on one time with our girls!

A Great Family Day Out at Potsdam

2011-07-09T18:45:00.001-07:00

This was a beautiful day full of great family moments. We started at the Antique stores and moved on to the yarn and craft store. We were of to the public library next and then on to our favorite used book store. We left there for Chinese food and a trip through the country on the way home. We finished the night with several hands of Poker. Alex won. :D These are the special days of summer and we are savoring each and everyone.

Alexandra Graduating From Elementary School!

2011-06-22T17:03:00.000-07:00

Alex looked beautiful as she accepted award after award for her achievements. We are so proud of her. She is really looking forward to Junior High! :D

Alex's Latest Art on Show in an Exhibit at the Community Center

2011-05-28T06:23:00.000-07:00

My Latest Creation

2011-05-20T16:11:00.001-07:00

I am in the process of re-decorating the living room.

It is a simple ocean theme. My latest creation is utilizing all the

colors that will be in the room. Grey, cream, pale yellow and dark grey blue. I just love this new throw and it is by far the largest crocheting project I have ever undertaken. Just amazing to work on. :) I'm so glad that my Nanny took the time to teach me this art form.

Gaming Old School

2011-04-21T14:21:00.001-07:00

We introduced our girls to what video games were like when we were their age. Yes, yes, they were horrified by the graphics and then the laughter set in. Kaboom, Breakout, and Frogger just to name a few. We had such fun playing the old Atari 2600...then back into storage it went. Not quite what the Wii is, but...agh...ok...not even close. :D Good memories, good times.

New Shed Prep

2011-04-10T09:53:00.001-07:00

We are having a shed put up this year! They dropped off the gravel for the foundation. Within a week the shed should be delivered. Yeah! :D

Current Crochet Projects

2011-04-10T09:20:00.001-07:00

These are the baby blankets I am currently making for two co-workers. Megan has a little boy named Wyatt and Amy is on her way to having a baby girl.

Sam's Final Award Ceremony for Cheerleading

2011-04-10T09:12:00.001-07:00

During the last award ceremony for Sam's Cheerleading she took home the "Loudest Cheerleader Award" :D for the LOL awards...and then the serious award was for "Team Spirit!"

Alex & her Emily Dickinson Project

2011-04-10T09:10:00.001-07:00

At Alex's school, they had all the sixth graders set up to discuss women of the past. Alex chose Emily Dickinson and she did a great job!

New Blog

2011-04-03T05:17:00.000-07:00

The girls brought up that they would like to do reviews of all our outings on a blog. I thought, "What a fun idea!"
So, here is our newest blog...called Dinner N' a Show.

We are reviewing the movies we see and the restaurants we visit. Having teenagers is such fun. Parenthood...the best years of our lives. :D
(((HUGS)))

Shout Out...

2011-03-29T16:35:00.001-07:00

Just wanted to let everyone know what a great UNCLE our kids have. It was Uncle Jeremy to the rescue tonight. Sammie (for the second time) shut down our computer by accident. She plugged in something that a newer computer would probably have no problem with, but ours...she didn't like it so much. When Sam couldn't get it to turn on, she called me in.

Of course I had absolutely no idea what to do. After trying everything I could think of...not much there...I called Grandma and Grandpa for our family's computer knowledge guy...SUPER UNCLE JEREMY to the rescue. He made a suggestion and look...I'm on here blogging. Amazing.

We are so grateful for his help, that I had to share and say...the next time you are home...the (homemade) Snickerdoodles and Starbucks are on us! Thank You Uncle Jeremy. (((HUGS)))

Thank You so much Uncle Jeremy! You da best! (P.S thank you for the wrinkle in time book Aunt Andrea I love it!) -Alex
Thank you for saving my life, Sam :) (She isn't too dramatic. LOL)

Alex On Display

2011-03-20T03:28:00.000-07:00

Alex had her artwork on display once again, this time at the Historic Frederic Remington Art Museum. This was once a mansion that was owned by a private family, and then a second family and finally Remington's wife lived the last three years of her life there. The mansion was eventually donated. Several of the rooms were decorated with period pieces and the rest held Remington's Artwork. The one room was set aside for the 6th grade art exhibit, where Alex's shoe was placed on display. I laughed when Alex said, "This isn't even my best work mom! I have several pieces that are better." But the teacher knew what she wanted to display and this was what she chose for the exhibit. We were so proud of her and she was thrilled to be part of a collection in such a fine Museum of Artwork.

The day progressed with traveling and antique shop hunting. We had dinner a restaurant we have never eaten at before and had the most wonderful experience. (You know when the atmosphere, cleanliness, wait staff and food are all amazing and you can't find a flaw if you tried. We have had some pretty horrific restaurant experiences as of late and this was a refreshing change.)

Ending the evening with a trip to the movies to see Red Riding Hood (poor Adam surrounded by girls, but he never complained once!) It was a wonderful day. Hoping for many more of these now that Spring is upon us. :) Much love ya'll, (((HUGS)))

Sam's Final Cheerleading Competition for the Year

2011-03-20T03:15:00.000-07:00

The day began on a Sunday at 8 am. I drove Sam over for practice and the ride to Potsdam on their bus.
Meeting one of the other cheer moms (my close friend Nanette) we rode together and met them in Potsdam around 11 am. This was a very fun day! Nan and I sat there snapping photos, chatting and cheering our heads off. Our cheer team won first place out of all the surrounding schools & best spirit award. They did such a great job. We were so proud of them.

Sam's Freshman Winter Formal

2011-02-13T05:02:00.000-08:00

Kindle Reading...

2011-01-13T08:23:00.000-08:00

Well, it took me a year to decide, but I finally realized, it was the Kindle over the Ipad. (I simply wanted a reading device, if I want to surf the web, I prefer a laptop.)

I always thought nothing could replace a book in my hands, but the first time I actually held this device, I was sold.

After charging all afternoon, I took my new Kindle to MCD's. Sitting by the fireplace with a hot cup of cocoa, I downloaded my first two books. Easy, inexpensive, and portable beyond words.

I'm very much a stick in the mud about new things, but look at me...stepping into a new year with fresh ideas. Very cool. :)

Our Tween...

2011-01-08T10:04:00.000-08:00

Our baby girl has exactly one year until she becomes a teenager! :) Her present of choice for her birthday, these cool hot pink shoes! She was very specific on exactly what kind of shoes she wanted and we went from store to store until she could find them. Now, if that isn't a teenager (soon to be), I'm not sure what is. Thank you to everyone for their birthday cards that all arrived! She is adding the cards to her diary and going shopping today for new jeans to go with her new sneakers. :D

(Special shout out to Uncle Jeremy, Aunt Andrea, Ian, Sawyer and Gavin...thank you for the card and money...loved it! from, Alex) :)
(((HUGS)))

Christmas Eve Night...

2010-12-25T07:10:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas! :) We love you all, hope your Christmas memories are blessed with family and love....and yummy food! (((HUGS)))

The first snow of the winter!

2010-12-07T13:03:00.000-08:00

Alex went out to play in our first snow fall. I went through one door and couldn't find her and tried the other, only to surprise her and she slipped. :D Classic family pic! Don't you just love the smile on a kids face when there is snow to play in!?!?!?!?

Sam After her Band Concert

2010-12-07T07:12:00.002-08:00

Sam sat around the back side of the stage this time and couldn't really be seen at all for pictures during the performance. Alex took these pictures of Sam with some of her closest friends after backstage.

Santa Downtown

2010-12-06T05:59:00.000-08:00

Alex played downtown with the 8th grade band, during a visit from Santa for all the younger children in our town. I was suppose to go and volunteer for helping with the children and get to watch Alex perform, but I have been sicker than a dog for about 12 days straight. Adam took our girls down and Sam video taped everything for me. Alex did a great job, I just love watching our girls grow up.

Alex's Christmas Band Concert 2010

2010-12-01T05:48:00.000-08:00

Holiday Time...

2010-11-26T16:40:00.001-08:00

Presents are being purchased, Turkey's cooked and eaten...and good family moments.

Current Crocheting Projects

2010-11-09T16:29:00.001-08:00

I am currently working on three crocheting projects at once. A blue and white baby blanket for a pregnant co-worker, a blue and multi colored striped blanket for myself and a new scarf. I have so many scarves it isn't funny, but as I use them all...I keep making more. :D

Just thought I'd share the fun I've been having with it lately.

Alex and her poster...

2010-11-09T16:12:00.000-08:00

for the student council bottle drive!

Halloween Thoughts...

2010-10-30T07:59:00.000-07:00

It is getting colder by the day and we know it's only a matter of time until the snow flies. :) I love it!

Everything in the Northeast is going well. In an economy where everyone is hunting for work, Adam and I have steady employment. Our girls are healthy and happy, pursuing their individual interests. Life is good.

With a football game for Sammie to cheer at and a day together alone with Adam, Alex & I, it is shaping up to be a peaceful weekend of relaxation and family moments.

Our girls are too old to trick or treat now (I keep having to enforce this with each of them, but they are). :p LOL
So, we will be watching old black and white scary movies from the 30's and handing out movie candy as others trick or treat at our house. Fun, fun! :D

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend as well. Much love.

Sammie's First High School Dance

2010-10-23T17:18:00.000-07:00

Winter Moments...

2010-09-28T10:52:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that Fall is here and soon the snow will fall. Winter.

Here in the North East, the rain is falling and my peaceful moments are spent in relaxing pursuits that only take place in the colder seasons.

I'm finishing my third book for this month, crocheting a baby blanket for a co-worker and sewing my first quilt.

I made homemade cookies last week, for the first time all year and thoroughly loved every second of it.

I enjoy these next two seasons best of all and look forward to the joy they bring to our home life. :) HUGS

Sam's First Game!

2010-09-15T16:34:00.002-07:00

Sam

2010-09-15T16:34:00.001-07:00

A beautiful day off together...

2010-08-31T16:58:00.000-07:00

Wild Turkeys on a day out with the fam.

2010-08-31T16:54:00.000-07:00

August moments...

2010-08-17T19:34:00.000-07:00

After speaking with loved ones tonight, I was reminded of the very little bit of blogging I do these days. To write, I must feel expressive. Having time to think and reflect, gathering together cohesive thoughts to share. These days life is much more like a whirlwind that settles on a spot briefly before it carries me to another task. But tonight, I thought, I will at least share what is new and changing in our world.

Alex is amazing us with her current drawing ability. Adam came in the other night and asked, "Have you seen what Alex has been drawing lately? She's amazing." I smiled and replied, "Yes, I told her that and she thinks I'm being kind because she's younger." It's amazing. Tomorrow sometime I'll try to scan some of them to post to the blog.

Sam has just finished Cheerleading Day Camp. I had to take her back and forth to Potsdam twice a day, three days in a row last week, but it was worth it. She had the time of her life. She's so excited to start High School this year. Only four years left...and she will be off to college. Amazing how time flies.

Which would be the point of my thoughts for the month of August to the right of this post.

Time is flying by now that the girls are older. Adam and I talk a lot about our plans for the future. We find ourselves setting new dreams for the years to come. Adam calls me his Silver Fox. (I'm greying rather quickly.) But I find that I LOVE getting older. What is that!?!?! Age brings this sense of peace and knowledge of who you are as a person. What you've accomplished and what you know you are capable of.

Thus the picture from the deck of a cabin in Maine. One of the places I have yet to go in the USA. :) I dream of a small cabin, off the water with a lovely deck. Sipping coffee in my robe and watching boats go by as the leaves subtly turn orange and rustle to the ground. Dreams keep us alive and young. Adam and I hope to dream together when we are little old people. It helps keep us focused on why we do what we are doing now. The future is the end result from the hard work of today.

Hope this finds you all dreaming, planning and living life to it's fullest! We are only given one go around, live it well! Much, much love.

The 4th of July

2010-07-04T19:00:00.001-07:00

We all met at Mom & Dad Conn's house for a 4th of July bbq. It was delicious and so comfortable. Their new deck is really a lovely outdoor living space. And Mom's backyard is the most beautiful of gardens. I walked around taking a few up close pictures of my favs. It was such a peaceful afternoon...thank you for a wonderful time Mom & Dad. (((HUGS)))

Wishing for pics...

2010-07-04T06:08:00.001-07:00

I'm currently wishing that we had brought the camera with us yesterday, but still extremely thankful for all the wonderful memories made, just the same. :)

Adam told us all to get some comfy clothing on and then, in classic Adam style, he took us all out for a day of adventure and fun. :D (Which is why I married the man in the first place. Some of us are fun personified and others are along for the thrill of a lifetime...I'm the later! :p)

He started by taking us out to eat, nothing fancy, but lots of laughing. Then off to our local nature center for a 1.1 mile hike through the woods...strolling down by the river and over fallen logs...so many bugs that the girls ran, while Adam and I soaked in the bits of sun pouring through the overhead canopy of trees. It was so beautiful. In another season, we will be heading back to do this much more often!

Then we hopped in the mini-van and were off to the most beautiful spot by the river, I have ever been. No other people were around...a lovely deck, strong wind...blue skies with lots of sun, gave way to skipping rocks and talking as a family for over 2 hours. Sitting on the edge of larger rocks, splashing our feet and dreaming out-loud.

Off to the mall to shop for an hour and then grabbing some fresh pretzels on our way out to the car we all waited patiently for the fireworks to begin. And WOW! They lasted a full 27 minutes (which is the longest we've experienced the whole time we've lived here) ending in the most amazing display of grandeur. One right after another...they seemed like they were exploding straight over head. Such fun!

The best memories to be written down, talked about and remembered for a lifetime. This is what living is all about. Not all the hype you see on tv, but rather movement, laughter and love. Happy 4th of July everyone and much, much LOVE! (((HUGS)))

End of the Year Shows

2010-06-20T04:41:00.000-07:00

Well, the end of this school year has been a bit of a blur, but a lot of fun. :D Sam had a Jazz Band performance at the Norwood Green. Sam and Alex were both in the Heritage Festival. (Sam marched while Alex played at the Arena.) Then there was a Jazz Band show at the art exhibit downtown and Alex's final band recital at the High School. Phew! We made it! Summer here we come. :p

Sam's 8th Grade Band Recital

2010-05-13T04:44:00.001-07:00

Here are just some of the 45 pics and 8 videos I took the other night at Sammie's last band recital in the Jr High. Can you believe we almost have a High Schooler on our hands!?!?!? :O

She did so great! (Sorry about the order of these shots...blogging just isn't what it used to be with my work schedule now, but I still try to share. :D) Here is where Sammie played (yes, with the sunglasses on...LOL...) during the Jazz Band performance. She got to play a solo this time, Misty (Mr. Alderson played on the piano and the others came in as accompaniment. One person came up afterwards and said I should put it on youtube as it made her father next to her cry.
Bryan, (which Sam informed me I spelled wrong in the last post) helped bring over all the necessary equipment, so, he was already there when we arrived.
They were all preparing for the evenings events when Bryan walked over and asked, "Sam, can I borrow a pick? I forgot mine." He grinned and she pulled one of two that she always has on her belt loop off. He gave it back at the end of the night after a smoking performance! :D
Then Sammie moved up to play with the full band and did an equally wonderful job. They all sounded great!

I followed everyone out back afterwards and snapped a few more pics. Good times, great memories. (So glad I could be there and share in Sam's joy with Alex by my side to giggle with.) :)

Sam's 8th Grade Spring Formal

2010-05-10T05:36:00.000-07:00

I showed up with Sam just a few minutes early to get pics of her friends as they arrived before the dance started. This was such fun! Alex and I watched everyone arrive in their pretty clothes.
One of Sammie's best friends right now is Brian. He showed up with a rose and necklace for her.
Another great friend is Jen...she arrived after I took the pic of everyone else. Then there is Callie, but she always comes 20 minutes late...I never manage to get a picture of her. But I saw her at the end and she looked lovely as every too! :) Fun teen moments.

Alex's 5th Grade Band/Chorus Concert

2010-04-24T03:11:00.000-07:00

Last night Alex had her first band and chorus concert. She was so great! She plays the flute very well and I was smiling ear to ear when I watched her sing and dance. Amazing job honey! What a great night. :D At the end, Alex's feet hurt so much that her big sister carried her into the house! Good times.

Easter Egg Hunting...teen style

2010-04-04T09:18:00.000-07:00

At 11 am, Sam finally awoke and the girls headed out for some good ol' fashion egg hunting. :p Sam strode around slowly, while Alex ran everywhere trying to find them all first. We discovered, after I looked around myself, that one of our local animals must have run off with an egg again. :D We usually lose a few to the animals in the field next to us...it was nice to see some things never change.

Easter Morning

2010-04-04T05:48:00.000-07:00

It's Easter morning and what a beauty of a day! The girls are going to go hunt for their eggs when they awake and then we will plant some new flowers in the front yard.

Adam and I agreed that the Easter Baskets would end this year. Ok, Adam said, "Sam will be driving in two years...and still getting easter baskets????" Putting this in perspective for me...LOL...I went shopping with them yesterday for some new flowers.

Walking around all the flowers the girls both said how it reminded them of Grandma. I completely agreed. Grandma=garden. :) Happy thoughts of family bounced between us as we shopped for just the right flowers. We picked out Sam's fav at the moment, Pansies.

The girls felt their first kiss of the sun this week and so I invested in an aloe plant. :0

Sam & Alex have fallen in love with cacti as well. Each purchased a small potted one and today we will repot them in larger pots and water once a week. In the hopes that they will sprout their brightly colored blooms at least once!

With birds chirping and skies of blue, we will bring even more life to our yard and home this day. Thank you Jesus for this celebration of life, that always begins with you! :)

(((HUGS))) and Kisses...Happy Easter!

Dyeing Easter Eggs on Saturday Evening

2010-04-04T05:32:00.001-07:00

Last night we dyed our Easter Eggs. :) I have to say...when the kids are this age, it's a completely different experience. One of joy and ease with very little work or spills. I can actually just set it up and let them go to town.
Alex made the first egg.
Sammie was right behind with her first...waiting for a bit of artistic inspiration. (Writing with her crayon...Team Jacob before dunking it in color.)

Callie wandered in to see what the vinegar smell and activity was all about.

And eventually...they were all finished. The kitchen was cleaned and we all went to relax for the evening. Good times.

Alex's 5th Grade Gymnastics Recital

2010-03-25T18:31:00.001-07:00

Alex had her 5th grade gymnastics recital tonight! She did great. I got lots of great video and pictures. So fun! Good job honey.:)

A New Christian Store...

2010-03-16T18:15:00.000-07:00

Our friend AJ Daniels has just opened a new christian store in Potsdam named, Living Water Christian Store.

We went to check it out on Saturday and I ended up purchasing a new mug for my morning smoothie, the latest Wow CD and a very interesting book our church is currently reading. What a great store!

Friday at Alex's Home Economics Party

2010-02-16T15:42:00.001-08:00

The children in Alex's class just finished reading a book in which they learned responsibility, respect in church and recipes! :) On last Friday I was invited to their brunch! I was thrilled to be there. All the students stood up and spoke about the place mats each had made. Alex was so sweet and I loved sharing this morning with her.

Alex's Blanket is Finished!

2010-02-10T17:03:00.000-08:00

I just finished Alex's blanket tonight. She was so excited it went with her to our room as she played video games. :) Ahhhhh...one down, one more to go. (Sammie's new one!)

Sammie is 14!

2010-02-10T15:32:00.000-08:00

Tonight we celebrated Sammie's 14th birthday. :) I made her cake from scratch last night. (Thank God for Martha Stewart recipes that always turn out good!) :p Thank you to everyone who sent her something. She loved them all.

Time For A Change....

2010-02-03T16:10:00.000-08:00

I came home from work yesterday to find that my glasses were broken. They've been good to me, but after six years...it was time for a change. I called our local eye wear store and asked for Lorraine. She's been our favorite there since Sammie got her first pair of glasses in Kindergarten. She said come on in.

I looked at her and said, "You pick them, Lorraine." She said, "Ok!"

These are the pair she chose and I must say, they are different from anything I've ever worn. Very Janeane Garofalo of me. LOL But I liked the definite change they brought. If you must wear glasses, they should make some statement. Well. These definitely do. :D

Sleepy Time Tea & Biscotti...

2010-02-02T17:51:00.000-08:00

Tonight I planned a relaxing baking and tea sipping time with our girls. They could learn to bake biscotti, we could relax and hit the hay sleepy...this was not to be the case. :p Setting down the bag of strawberries...I bumped the egg next to it which rolled right into the sink and cracked. (The beginning...) I cut up the strawberries and cashews then let the girls get to work on the rest. The dough somehow turned out wetter than usual which I couldn't figure out...we did it step by step as I always had.

This turned into us all sitting on the floor watching the dough through the lighted glass window at the front of our oven. We watched the dough spread out...then a little more and a little more. We laughed and became rather silly really. Very fun. Alex kept us laughing and in stitches all evening until we really did have to call it a night, rather wound up instead of calm and relaxed. Agh. Family moments. Never as you plan, but always special. ;)

New Idea...

2010-01-26T06:05:00.000-08:00

I have discovered some really great crocheted sock patterns...thank God for the web...:D I am going to try my hand at crocheting socks too. Just to see which I like the best. My February project...socks!

My First Hand Knitted Sock

2010-01-25T18:55:00.000-08:00

:D I finished my very first hand knitted sock! I didn't think I could do it, I've given up 3 times before and finally...I got it! This is a very small sock. I won't be making it's match. I needed to try a small one first so I wouldn't get frustrated if I couldn't finish it and had invested many hours. Now I know that I can make many, many more of these and I plan to start a pair of them next week in my size.

Our Day with Jeremy and Ian

2010-01-23T16:17:00.000-08:00

I arrived home from work to find that Jeremy and Ian had just arrived! :D Oh, my, word... what a cutie our first nephew is.

Ian loves the Star Wars movies...surprise, surprise! In Uncle Adam style, Ian got to hold all the prop weapons from the cabinet. He was so careful with each and you could tell he couldn't believe he was actually holding them. Then he spotted the Superfriends box on our DVD shelf. I giggled as he floated between all the great stuff Uncle Adam had.

And then...the best...Uncle Adam left the room to put fresh batteries in his lightsabers. Ian sat on the ottoman waiting...then he would hear one of them light up and he would jump up, run over to Jeremy and say, "Did you hear that!?!?!?!" He would patiently sit back down and then...he finally got to hold one. :D It was awesome.

Ian kept his lightsaber close at hand for several hours afterwards. He battled as Luke did in the movie, while Sam and Alex took turns being the bad guys.

During all of this I watched and crotched. Such a good time. Thank you Andrea for the Christmas present that blessed us all! :)

Alex's New Blanket

2010-01-22T06:07:00.001-08:00

I began Alex's new blanket this week. She showed me her blanket from 7 and how she had out grown it, just to make her case of needing a new one. LOL (She has several fleece blankets and a comforter, but apparently she doesn't like them as much as the ones that I make her myself.) Which of course warmed my heart so much that I set to work on it that day. :D

I am half way through it and thought I'd share the yarn she chose. It will match her room perfectly and has all three of her favorite colors in it. Purple, blue and pink!

Our New Stove....

2010-01-15T06:12:00.001-08:00

...is coming on Saturday. :) It's amazing how valuable an oven really is to a baker. I have thoroughly used my grill, crock pot, hot plate and microwave, but nothing can compare to an oven. :p

One day I put in a lovely corn bread to bake and after ten minutes, I knew something wasn't right. I opened the oven door to find my cornbread completely blackened on top (:O oh NO!) and my new bread pan...melting from the severe heat. I realized the oven couldn't be shut off. So, I flipped the breaker and left her there. (While I aired out the house.) I couldn't believe my long time baking buddy was gone. :( We have lived in this house for 9 1/2 years and the stove came with it. She was brand new at the time.

After work last night, I went out to buy my first new stove. The salesman tried to sell me on several higher priced models, with cool new features and different size burners for different size pans, but there was a sweet simple one on the end that I just loved. It had a large oven and heavier door than the others. A nice glass top and I thought...she's the one! :D I purchased her and left knowing that she would be delivered on Saturday.

The family has requested such favorites as walnut/chocolate chip cookies, biscotti and lasagna. There will be fresh baked bread in our house again on Sunday morning as I cook my first batch of kefir rolls in months! I'm thrilled.

Thank God for His blessings on our home, to Adam for working so hard to provide for us all and for skills I learned from my Nannies and Moms. (((HUGS)))

Treasured evening times...

2010-01-13T16:46:00.000-08:00

Our evenings have settled into relaxing moments together this week. :) Alex purchased the last book in her current series last weekend. (With her birthday money. :D) She reads to Sammie and I every night from it. She will finish Friday night right before we go into our weekend. It's been very relaxing, she is a great reader.

While she reads, I am trying my hand at homemade socks again. They are coming along nicely and I find the more I work on them, the more I am enjoying knitting. (I've always preferred crocheting. ;))

A lovely week. It's nice in our busy lives to have moments of peace in our home. :D (((HUGS)))

Happy Birthday Alex!!!

2010-01-07T17:11:00.000-08:00

Tonight Sammie and I set up the kitchen for Alex's 11th Birthday. :D It was so fun. Pizza, chocolate...chocolate...chocolate cake and presents. I ask you...Does it get better than that at 11? :p

Sammie made a card for Alex and gave her a coupon. One day of Sammie doing Alex's house chores. (OF course on the back were the exceptions. Good for ONE day only! Expires in a week. And not on weekends. LOL) Alex loved it and I wouldn't be surprised if she used it tomorrow.

Alex also got a Tinkerbell Journal, but apparently I forgot to download the picture of that....how is that possible??? What with so little Tinkerbell in these photos!?!??!? :D Good times. Happy Birthday our Baby.

Breakfast Christmas morning at Aunt Reba's House

2009-12-25T13:29:00.001-08:00

Well, Reba and Grandma went and out did themselves again. :D The food was amazing as well as the lovely place settings. Thank you so much for the yummy breakfast and fun game playing. (We missed Grandpa like crazy...he was sick and stayed home this time. :( )

Here are just a few of the pics I took. Good times.

Our Christmas...Christmas Eve

2009-12-25T13:12:00.000-08:00

We open our gifts and celebrate Christmas on Christmas Eve night. Our evening began waiting for Daddy to come home.

I think we gave him 15 minutes to settle into some comfy clothing and the present opening began. :D

I've only included a couple pics of our evening...as there were lots taken. The last few are of Sammie with her gift from Uncle Jeremy and Aunt Andrea....make-your-own lip gloss. We laughed as we tried to mix it together and bottle it before it cooled and set up. Very cool and fun gift! Alex has yet to take a bath and try her make-your-own bath spa kit they sent, but that should be equally fun! Thank you to all extended family members for your gifts. We love you all. Have a very Happy Holiday Season. :)

My Co-Workers wishing everyone a happy holidays

2009-12-24T14:01:00.000-08:00

At our office party, a co-worker named Kim, got me these lovely new additions to my snowman collection along with a cute t-shirt that says, "I'm not short, I'm fun size!" LOL I really love my job. I'm so blessed.

Today we all donned holiday hats and wished everyone a Merry Christmas. :D Good times. Off course I was the only elf in the bunch, but please...at my height...could I be anything else?!?!?! :D

Saturday....

2009-12-15T15:36:00.000-08:00

...we purchased our tree from our local third generation farm. Everyone in the family loves it, including Callie! :D

Sammie's Winter Formal

2009-12-11T17:22:00.000-08:00

Sammie was soooooo excited for tonight! :D She was absolutely beautiful. I went up the walk just get some pics of everyone. I can't wait until she comes home to hear all about it. :D Parenthood is the best!

Sam's Winter Band Concert

2009-12-11T17:17:00.001-08:00

Sammie had her Jazz Band and Full Band Concert last night. She was amazing! She soloed in the middle of one song during jazz band. Then the Saxophone section stood up during the full band section and wowed us some more! It was such a wonderful evening. Good job Sammie!:)

Alex's First Chorus Concert

2009-12-07T18:43:00.001-08:00

Oh, my, word! Alex was fabulous! :D We had such fun watching her perform with the chorus tonight. She's getting so big. And we have our first snow tonight too! :) I took a picture of one of the wreaths on our doors tonight as well. The girls and I are going to string some fresh cranberries and add them to the wreaths, but we haven't gotten around to it yet.

Alex's Big Morning

2009-11-13T16:54:00.000-08:00

We got a letter in the mail earlier this week saying that Alex was on the Success Board this marking period. Boy were we surprised when she ended up getting three awards! Two for her outstanding math grades and one for artistic expression. Wow! Go Alex! :D

Callie and Sammie

2009-10-17T15:48:00.000-07:00

We still aren't sure exactly why, but when Sammie comes out after a shower Callie can not get enough of her hair. She rolls around and plays with Sammie's hair, bites at it, and eventually lays down with her. (Almost on her head!) LOL Finally got a pic and thought I'd share. Too funny. :)

Boldt Castle

2009-09-20T04:06:00.000-07:00

We stepped off the boat and began our steady walk up the island to find that we had chosen a day that Boldt Castle was hosting a Wine & Cheese tasting event...along with a wedding. Both were extremely enjoyable to be a part of while we took in all of the island and learned of the home's history.

Much of the home is not finished, but here are some pictures of the rooms that are.

The library is always my favorite place in a home like this. The fire places in every room were just immense!
This one upstairs bedroom that was finished seemed very romantic, with river views from all four windows, a fire place and a private bath.
When looking straight up the central staircase, this it the ceiling. Just gorgeous!

We finally reached the very top...after starting in the basement...and I was exhausted! Thank God for the elevator going down. :D Boldt Castle was such fun.

Our Exciting Adventure...

2009-09-20T03:45:00.000-07:00

to Alex Bay and Boldt Castle. We woke up early on Saturday morning, had a big breakfast with our girls and sent them off with Grandpa & Grandma for the weekend. After they left we puttered for about an hour and then we began talking..."What are we going to do with this time together?" We thought of Ottawa...and Albany...Burlington and then Lake Placid. We settled on Alex Bay. :) What an amazing day we had together. The weather could not have been better, the trip down and back peaceful...the views, breeze on the water and being together was something we will remember always.

Adam had to snuggle me on the boat tours. Even though it was sunny and warm...the breeze on the water is much cooler, even in my coat! (Every breath I took would fog up my glasses. Teehee....good times. I loved it!)

As the tour began to turn back towards Boldt Castle we could see the bridge to Canada in the distance. The views were simply amazing.

Our Girls...

2009-09-20T03:36:00.000-07:00

and their weekend away with Grandma & Grandpa! :) What fun they are having! We are so blessed.

Sweet Finds....

2009-09-12T10:52:00.000-07:00

at our local Harvest Festival downtown today. A very nice woman was selling these adorable pot holders and another was selling these fabric coasters. I fell in love with both. :D I was very pleased with how they matched the rooms I picked them for. Good times.

Callie with My Yarn

2009-08-25T15:06:00.001-07:00

As I sat on the edge of the ottoman and crocheted, Callie went crazy for my yarn. :) I had Sammie grab the camera for me and snapped some photos of her. Sometimes she is still such a kitten at heart.

Twelve Spotted Skimmer & Woolly Bear Caterpillars

2009-08-22T15:56:00.000-07:00

After lawn mowing and showers, the girls led me outside with my camera to get pictures of their finds. :) We got out their Nature Smart A Family Guide to Nature book and found out the names of them. My goodness, there is life all around us, if we have eyes to see it and enjoy! :D I made them let the caterpillars go...all six of them. LOL

House Numbers

2009-08-16T13:20:00.001-07:00

We've had these house numbers in our cabinet drawer for over a year and today Adam decided to put them up! :) I just love them.

A Frog Found

2009-08-10T09:54:00.000-07:00

Today was our day to mow the lawn and Sammie found another frog. We find them every week and she wants me to photograph each one. Normally I don't. :p But this one was so very small. Here are our girls enjoying a bit of nature while they work. :)

Seasons

2009-08-06T17:42:00.000-07:00

I love these flowers at the front of our house. Mom Conn had given me just a few...several years ago and since then they keep multiplying all on their own. They were gorgeous this year, the first few years...not so much. :) I find life is like that. Seasons of change can be very unsettling at first and then, out of nowhere, they can bloom into an amazingly beautiful blessing. God is so good. May you find His blessing in all that you do this season of your life.

A Day At The Beach

2009-07-14T16:12:00.000-07:00

Proof positive that there are still nice days to be had this summer. The girls and I visited the beach a few days ago and enjoyed the sun for over 4 hours! It was divinely relaxing to say the least. :D

Blues Festival

2009-07-14T15:52:00.000-07:00

Nana & Papa met us at Turtle Park where they were having a local blues festival. It was the most beautiful day I can remember and the music was great! Our girls made good use of the playground until Nana and Papa arrived with Chloe (their mini-pin) to run around with. All three were good and tired when we all left. Good times.

Great Grandma's Piano

2009-07-06T08:54:00.000-07:00

This week, my parents came up from Florida for a visit. They brought me a present, my great grandmother's piano! I used to sit on this bench as my feet would dangle back and forth, tinkering on the keys. Five generations of my mom's family have played this piano. Thank you Nanny True, Nana & Papa Caron for this wonderful gift that we all enjoy playing! (When I am playing it, Callie will sit beside me on the bench, pawing at the keys herself.)

The Memorial Day Parade

2009-05-25T08:42:00.000-07:00

This morning at 9 am our girls were dressed and ready to march in our local Memorial Day Parade. We had fully planned on staying home and resting up, picking them up when it was over...until we saw them in uniform. The minute Adam got back from dropping them off he suggested we head to the Via Main Restaurant for breakfast and watch them go by. :D

We showered and got there at 10:40 am, our food came and we were half way through it when the parade started. We jumped up and headed out the door (the waitress chasing after us). Turning around we announced, "Don't touch the food, we'll be right back. Our girls are marching by in the parade and we want to get pictures of them!" Everyone in the restaurant laughed as we watched and snapped pictures. Running down the street with the band trying to get one of Sammie in the middle of the whole group. It didn't happen. These are the only clear shots. :D

What a great experience! They were awesome!

Alex was out front with the rifle. Sam was a few rows in with her saxophone. If you blow up the marching shots, you can just see Sammie's head sticking up over the banner. LOL

We are so proud of these kids! My gosh parenting does have it's rewarding moments. :)

Alex's Memorial Day Chorus

2009-05-22T16:01:00.000-07:00

Alex had her first chorus concert on Thursday afternoon at school. Here she is getting her hair curled and ready to leave with curls. :D She's so beautiful and she did an amazing job! I know because she sang us all a solo version...here at home. Great job honey!

Callie

2009-05-22T15:59:00.001-07:00

Ok, I think Callie is just a bit spoiled. She has taken to sleeping on our pillows. :p Isn't she cute!?!?! LOL

Sammie's Spring Concert

2009-05-13T06:25:00.000-07:00

Sammie had her Spring Band Concert last night. The first picture is the backstage room where they all practice before going on stage. It was a lot of fun and Sammie did a great job! :D

Alex's First Time Mowing The Lawn

2009-05-12T03:15:00.000-07:00

Adam came in to tell me that our youngest child couldn't be more like me if she tried. I thought ut-oh. :p What has she done now??? LOL

He informed her she could try a few passes with the lawn mower, but he thought she was still a bit small to really do it. He said she started pushing it in the back, struggling under it's weight, but kept on going. Then she rounded the side yard...pushing off the telephone pole with both feet when she had to go around the corner and couldn't get enough traction. She continued on around the house and did the entire yard herself! (Adam did all the trim work.) :D He said all he had to do is tell her she couldn't do it and the yard became a challenge. Now she and Sam are going to split that duty and they are both very happy about that. (It's been a few years for Sam and the thrill has worn off.:D)

Friday Night's Spring Formal

2009-05-12T03:12:00.000-07:00

Samantha had her second and final formal dance of the year last Friday night. :) She looked lovely and had a wonderful night.

Laundry Room Clean Up

2009-04-20T03:41:00.000-07:00

We are in the middle of Spring cleaning around our house. That includes the laundry room. We took down the door and frame that has been separating our laundry room and kitchen since we moved in. We no longer need to hide our hideous furnace as we switched to electric heat early last summer. Then Adam removed a wall of old metal cupboards for me so that I could actually see our window in there! :D He's been really working hard and now I can finally prime the room to paint it red, to match the kitchen. Thank you Adam! He has since moved on to our garage and it's half empty already! Adam is the most amazing organizer I've ever seen. Thank you God for that...it's not at all one of my strong suits. :)

Neighborhood Friend

2009-04-16T05:22:00.000-07:00

I've been trying to upload this picture for two days. Sometimes the blog is uncooperative! :p But here it finally is. We have the sweetest neighborhood squirrel and I finally got a picture of him.

Easter Thoughts

2009-04-12T06:25:00.000-07:00

This morning is a very, very different Easter in that Mom Conn is currently in the hospital, Adam is getting over the flu and we won't be attending any Sunday service or family gathering.

There happened to be a documentary on PBS yesterday afternoon. It was about the different religions of our world. Recently I've been studying the origins of the Bible.

We went to bed last night having watched the 1956 version of The Ten Commandments with our girls (who were fascinated with it, by the way) and Adam and I discussing our faith.

When you narrow everything down to one finite point. If there were one thing we believe above all else...it would be this:

John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

This is the beginning of our faith. It is the hope of our home.

From our family to yours, Happy Easter everyone! Much love.

Easter Egg Hunt

2009-04-12T06:17:00.000-07:00

The Easter Bunny (AKA...Mommy) was out early this morning. The girls went hunting for them a few hours later. They noticed after scouring the yard twice and bringing me out to help that two of our eggs disappeared. I told the girls we do live next to an open field and these are food! ;D They came in happy and are currently watching a Simpson's boxset, eating more of their candy. Ahhhhhh...the perfect Easter morning...

Easter Baskets

2009-04-12T06:04:00.000-07:00

The girls found their Easter Baskets filled with candy and gum very, very early this morning. (I couldn't wake them up during a school week this early and see such smiles...I can tell you that! :p)

Easter Eggs & Candy Baskets

2009-04-12T05:51:00.000-07:00

Every year since Sammie was two, we have dyed Easter eggs in our home. Now Sammie is 13, Alex is 10 and every year I become more aware of just how old they are getting. There are no spills & I'm not ready to pull my hair out at the end of the process. LOL :) It's just three calm, peaceful spirits in the kitchen having fun! They wait patiently for their turn, there is no hogging of the spoon. They waited while I wrapped a few of theirs in lace to make a pretty design. It was a great memory.

Adam walked in at the end with the mail, Nanny & Papa from Florida had sent them each a card and McDonald's gift card. They were overjoyed! Thanks Mom and Dad. :)

The first part of our Easter festivities had come to an end.