Veith Adventures

Tree Trimming & Pre Christmas Fun!

2011-12-12T18:25:00.000-08:00

December 12, 2011

The great thing about having a 4 year old this time of year: Everything about Christmas is fascinating! Brooke is amazed by the both the big and the simple things of the season!Through the eyes of a child...

After finding the perfect tree, the next step was TREE TRIMMING.

Fun Times

Every ornament, every light, every decoration is "soooo beautiful!" I think I heard "Look at this one!" a record amount of times this year. Mike even put up extra lights outside per the request (plea!) of this 4 year old! Yep, he's wrapped...well, the lights are now anyway!

Our lil photographer insisted we have an "action" picture too!
Blurry is the new trend in photography...you didn't know?

Pink Ornaments! Of course! Who doesn't?

Our expert decorator!

The final product: Veith Christmas Tree 2011!

Beware: Adorable Video Below!

In addition to Tree Trimming, we went to Brooke's Preschool Christmas Program! She did a little rehearsal for us one night before bed. (see video above)

Ready for her program!

She did great at the actual performance (Dec. 7) as well, but a little bit timid. She's so serious up there, but ohh sooo cute. Despite her shyness, she sang her little heart out - straight faced and all!! ("mom, I was concentrating!")

Front & Center! Seriously Serious!

Then last weekend (Dec 10th) I went to my first Ballet with my favorite ballerina! The Nutcracker was put on by local youth and it was exceptional! Brooke was mesmerized! She loved it! Although I had to do a lot of convincing that the dark theater was nothing to fear. Boy, was that a chore! But i finally convinced...ok...bribed her to go inside! (You might have guessed: we don't go to very many movies)!

After the Ballet we went shopping for Dad's gifts. Brooke picked out some pretty interesting gifts. Brooke insists he'll love them. I thought it was cute when she asked if she could try some of the chocolates we bought for him. When I said no, she replied quite seriously, "but I want to make sure he'll like them..." Sure Brooke! How thoughtful. (No, I did not let her open them!)

Gettin It!

2011-12-05T15:48:00.001-08:00

December 4, 2011
I asked my husband to help me think of a clever title for this post and this is what he came up with!

"Gettin It"

Really? That's what he considers a "clever" title...?

How Creative! Well, then again, I asked right?
So, I'll just go with it...

I'm sure you're wondering:

Gettin what?

The Christmas Tree! Of course!

(what did you think???? Never mind, I don't want to know)

Anyway, last Sunday (Dec 4th), keeping with tradition, Mike, Brooke and I made our annual trek to Harmony Hills Evergreens in Sussex for the perfect tree! It was a drizzly, overcast day, but fun none-the-less! Given the hike we took to get to the "perfect" tree I'll take drizzly and over cast over snowy and below zero any day.

When we arrived, first item of business was POPCORN! I think Brooke comes for the popcorn first - the tree is just an added bonus!

First things first - POPCORN!

The search for the Perfect tree.
"How 'bout this one Mom?! It's just my size!"
Let's keep looking!

Brooke being...Brooke! Having fun and being goofy!

And they we found it! The perfect tree!!!

Mike cuts it while Brooke instructs!!

We did it Dad! Great job!!

It was all muscle!!

Of course, next step, DECORATING! Brooke couldn't wait! More on that next....stay tuned!

Graduation!

2011-12-04T19:01:00.001-08:00

Dec 3, 2011

Congratulation to my step-son Zach who graduated from Fox Valley Technical College!! WooHoo!

On Saturday, we watched him walk across the stage at the Performing Arts Center in Appleton and hear:

"Zachary M. Veith, Diesel Equipment Technology, Associate in Applied Science Degree"

The Class of 2011!

Up Next!

The Hand Shake!

You should be proud Zach! Both your dad and I are very proud of you! Great job kid!

So Proud!!!

"Nobody said it would be easy...

Only that it would be worth it!"

(one of my favorite sayings...)

More proud family/friends: Zach's mom, Alycia, Bryan...and speaker George Koonce!
(Remember the 3 P's: Purpose, Passion and Perseverance! Nice speech Mr Koonce!)

Zach says he's not "officially" done with school until December 21st - I guess he has a couple more classes and few formalities and he's home free! He already has a full time job lined up! This kid is on his way...! Once again great job and congrats!

Oh - And where was Brooke? She was with her cousin Dylan! Thanks Tessa for watching Brooke! I owe you! Brooke can't sit for 20 minutes, much less 2 hours! It looks she had fun! Thanks again!

Brooke and her cousin Dylan playing Mary Poppins! (I think?)

Thanksgiving!

2011-11-29T15:00:00.000-08:00

November 28, 2011

We had a fantastic Thanksgiving! Like we've done for the last 11-ish years, we spent the Thanksgiving day at Mike's brothers' where they had their traditional, delicious Thanksgiving feast. Sooo good! Thanks Mike and Mark for the delicious food and your hospitality!

Brooke loved playing with her cousins - fun to watch them interact as they get older! I even had a craft for them to do. They decorated mini Cheese Cakes to look like turkeys - How very Martha Steward of me! Well, not really, but it was something to keep them busy...and full of sugar! I do what i can!

Brooke and I make pumpkin cheesecake at home!
She loves to help cook and bake!

Aubrey, Brooke and Dylan - make the mini cheesecakes into turkeys! Gobble! Gobble!

In addition to the food, I also enjoyed the family fun and conversation. Plus Mike's niece Tessa and her husband announced they are expecting their second baby! Always room for one more cousin! Yay!! Congratulations Tessa, Mitch and big brother Dylan!

(Clockwise - from bottom left)
Aubrey and Brooke playing
Soon to be "Big brother" Dylan,
Mike and Zach - Father and son bonding!,
Brooke had enough and asked to go home!
You know she's tired when she's the one that wants to go home!

I truly have so much to be thankful for - I try to think about how fortunate I am all year, but take a moment to reflect a bit more at this time of year. So, keeping with tradition, I thought I'd share my Thankful List 2011.

I'm Thankful for:

As always, top on my list, I’m thankful for being called “mom”, “mommy”, “mama”. There is no sweeter name! It’s music to my ears.
I wouldn’t be called those great names without my sweet daughter Brooke. I’m so very, very, very thankful everyday for my little girly-girl. Brooke, who has changed my life….for the better…forever!
I wouldn’t have Brooke without my husband Mike. I’m thankful for such a caring, supportive and fun husband (and a great father!).
The time I got to spend as a stay-at-home mom! More time with Brooke was so much fun and so very memorable. I will never regret taking off that time. Never ever ever. (although I might regret not taking one more year…..perhaps I should have taken....just one more year….)
All my Family and Friends - near, far and forever in my heart.
For my step-kids. Being a step mom first, (kind-of, sort-of) gave me a chance to practice guiding, helping, listening and developing patience.
An opportunity to babysit my step-grandson Cody while being a SAHM. In turn, Brooke and Cody developed a great friendship. Brooke is a fantastic Aunt and claims to be Cody's "teacher!" They play great together- hopefully we can get them together again soon!
A new job that fits me….”like a glove” (Jim Carrey voice).
The courage to take on a new job – to try something new and step outside of my comfort zone.
Mike's cousin Kathy who provided a ton of guidance and advice while going through the interview process for the first time in 11 years! Her feedback was valuable and proved successful
A short(er) commute to my new job! Wooo Hoo!
Kind, helpful and welcoming co-workers – so far so good!
Experience working at a small company (vs. a large one). I think a small company fits my personality better at this stage of my life – but I think experience at a large company prepared me extremely well….hard to explain. Regardless I’m thankful for the opportunity to experience both.
A "manageable" transition to Brooke's new routine. (Stay tuned for a blog post all its own :-))
Patience
Great Child Care! St Paul’s is the bomb! Brooke's transition would have been much more difficult without caring and nuturing teachers. Thanks for providing Brooke with the extra snuggles - you know who you are!!
Fremont Elementary, Brooke's 4K teacher and all the staff. Thanks for helping Brooke transition to a new school and a new routine.
Our church - United Church of Christ
Coffee - I drink a lot more now. I use to drink it cuz I liked it. Now I drink it cuz I need it!
Our good health and health care
Our good pup Rudy...okay Jiffi too!
Our home
Our comfortable life
Everything else - there is oh so much to list!

My thankful list is truly endless - I could go on and on. I'm so very fortunate!! I hope everyone had a fantastic Thanksgiving!

Some VERY Special Visitors

2011-11-27T19:32:00.001-08:00

November 3, 2011 - The last week of October we had some very special visitors, our special friends, well, actually more than friends...they are indeed FAMILY! Yes, Rita and Brenton, who Brooke knows as Memaw and Pop-pop, drove up from sunny Florida to the cool north of Wisconsin. We were so excited they were able to make it. Brooke was ecstatic! Not only did she get to spend quality time with them, she didn't have to go to school! Actually there wasn't any school that Thursday and Friday, (Teacher Convention) but she didn't quite understand that - she thought she was skipping school just to spend time with Memaw and Pop-Pop.

Snuggling! Brooke spends quality time with Memaw & Pop-Pop

Brooke looovvees Mondo! He's a good boy!

We had a lot of fun - Brooke spent the mornings playing board games, reading books, taking walks and playing with their dogs Mondo and Maggie. She also got to go to Chucky Cheese (I had to work), the train museum, shopping with Memaw (a girl can never have too many shoes!) and a trip to Lambeau Field. And of course we carved pumpkins and went trick-or-treating - twice! Sunday, Fremont had Trick or treating and on Monday we went to Uncle Mark's neighborhood in Appleton. When I asked Brooke what she liked doing most while Memaw and Pop-Pop were visiting, her reply: "Playing Memory and Candyland!"

Pumpkin Carving! Rapunzel was the theme this year.
I did my best, but won't lie - It wasn't easy, but I was determined!
What we do for our children...

Trick or treating in Fremont! Rapunzel - let down your hair...

.....give it to daddy!

or....

Zach joined us in the pumpkin carving fun!

Lambeau Field! L-L-L-Laambeauuu Field!

It made me realize yet again, it truly is the simple things that really matter in the eyes of a child.

Thanks for coming Memaw and Pop-Pop! We loved having you! Come again soon! Lots of Love!

Thanks for coming to our neck of the woods!

Mr. Potato Head - Meet Your Match!

2011-10-15T15:26:00.000-07:00

October 15, 2011

Move Over Mr. Potato Head.

There are some new Noggins in town!

PUMPKIN HEADS!!!!

“Mom, since the pumpkins have faces, I’ll make a face too”

(She is sooo like her dad!)

Yep, Halloween is in the air at our house. Brooke already picked out her costume...well, actually, over a month ago already. Here is a sneak preview!

Holy Buckets!

2011-10-09T20:43:00.000-07:00

October 9, 2011

Last week at church there was a Chili Luncheon and Basket Raffle put on by the Sunday school. Funds from this event went to support community outreach programs. There were some cute basket themes this year. Of course you win the baskets by purchasing tickets and putting them towards the ones you want. Mike, being in the giving mood, bought a bunch of tickets. We put the vast majority of tickets towards two baskets:

the "all girl basket" which included nail polish, a small purse, a brush, mirror, etc. (all the girly things Brooke loves).
the "craft basket" which was also right up Brooke's alley.

Brooke finally convinced me to put one ticket toward the giant candy bucket. Okay - just one ticket, what's the harm? And for good measure one ticket in the "movie basket"...just one... It's for a good cause, right?

Well, what do we win? The "candy basket" AND the "movie basket" which also contained a ton of candy! Of Course!

Mmmm - Delicious!

Can't.Lift.Must.Call.In.Back-up!

Happiness is...LOTs of Candy! Yep, I'm happy!

Rudy will help take that off our hands....!

I should have known! We need candy in this house like we need a hole in our head...or teeth! Brooke loves candy and was literally jumping for joy when she learned she won this big pot of sugar. I cringed! Although, I admit, I also have a very strong sweet tooth, not to mention little self control. Sweet! Tis the season, I guess!

"Ma'am - Back away from the candy dish! You are too close to the candy dish....."

I'll be sending Mike to work with a little candy...everyday...enough to make a difference, but not enough that Brooke will notice....until it's gone. No worries - I'm sure we'll eat our fair share...plus Halloween is right around the corner! Looks like our sweetie will stay sweet for a while yet!

Show & Tell

2011-09-26T20:59:00.000-07:00

September 2011

During the first week of 4K, Brooke had an assignment.

Show and Tell....with a theme.

She was instructed to bring something to class that was her favorite color.

Well, if you know Brooke, her favorite color is Pink (and Purple).

So, I was searching the house getting some ideas, incase she wasn't sure what to bring. I saw a pink bunny, a barbie dressed in purple, and various other toys that would suffice if she needed help deciding.

Her show and tell day was getting close, so on the way home, I reminded her that she had to bring show and tell, but it had to be of her favorite color. She wasn't sure, so I started suggesting possible ideas, but got no enthusiastic responses. We finally pulled in the drive way. Brooke was really quiet as she got out of the car and had this serious pondering look on her face. Then she shouted

"I know! I have a great idea! I should bring grandpa's roses to show and tell! He has lots of PINK roses."

(I should have known. She needed no help from me!)

Lucky for us, Grandpa lives right next door. He happened to be outside (tending his flower garden of course) and Brooke went running to him - "Grandpa, I need more roses please - I have to take them for show & tell." He was so proud and tickled that she insisted on taking his prized roses.

Brooke sitting with her "Show & Tell" Roses!
Thanks Grandpa Willard!

Sitting on Grandpa's Rose Bench Garden
Don't forget to stop and smell the roses...

I thought it was so sweet. Out of all the things she could take, what she really, really wanted was grandpa's roses to show all her friends. I don't think I've ever seen Willard so proud!

Couple things to note:

Brooke L-O-V-E-S, loves flowers! I can't remember a time she wasn't intrigued by flowers! Even at Disney World she focused on the flowers more than what a typical kid would find interesting at such a place. I can't tell you the number of times she'd be shouting "Mom! Dad! Look!" We'd turn thinking we're going to see Mickey or a Princess. Nope it was "Mom! Dad! Look at the beautiful flowers!!!"

Grandpa Willard has two giant rose gardens - They are absolutely beautiful! Since we live just next door, Brooke goes over there often to see both grandpa and his roses. She often talks him into giving her a small vase (or two) of roses which makes her very happy. She is very particular when she brings the vase(s) home - she looks for the most perfect spot. Adorable!

Willard with his roses - Summer 2011.
In this picture Willard was giving 50 of his roses to a couple celebrating 50 years of marriage!

When Opportunity Knocks....

2011-09-14T13:44:00.000-07:00

HIDE! Stay still and pretend you're not home!

BUT

What if it's the Publisher Clearing House or equivalent?

Or this sweet little lady?

Well, I guess I'll go ahead and see what's knocking at my door!

(reminds me of that song: "...Who can it be knocking at my door? Go 'way...don't come 'round here no more...." Stuck in your head yet? You're welcome!)

Well, folks, here's the news:

I'm rejoining the workforce!

Yep! I'm taking the plunge!

I hope the water is warm. Actually, more importantly, I hope I remember how to swim!

My new position you ask?

"Engineer Research & Development"

Several weeks ago I saw a job posting for an engineering position at a reputable company just 15 minutes from home. The job description was very intriguing and really peaked my interest. So I sent in my resume just to learn more. A couple interviews later I had an offer in hand! (I'm very fortunate!)

I was going to continue in the role of SAHM for one more year, so this new path came a bit unexpectedly. At the same time, the plan was to enter the work force again next year, so we are just walking down this path a little sooner. Plus, Brooke started 4 year old kindergarten - 2 full days per week - giving me extra time (although I could have easily found stuff to do :-)). Mostly I have the opportunity to work at a reputable company in the community we live, doing a job that I believe I’ll enjoy:

Engineering, product development, polymer derived products”

It’s basically what I studied in college and it has always been a field of interest. It was just too good an opportunity to ignore!

Mike really encouraged me to accept the offer, not because we need it right away, or because he likes his woman working, but more because it’s an opportunity that only comes around once in a blue moon and it kind of just fell into my lap - like it was meant to be! (I realize I am very fortunate and we are extremely thankful for such an opportunity, especially in these hard economic times!)

Another key benefit - given the job’s close proximity to our house (~15 minutes from home), we've reassessed our want/need to move to The Valley. We put our house on the market back in February and had minimal activity since the “For Sale” sign went up in our yard. This didn't come as a huge surprise. Properties just aren’t moving in this location or at this price range. …Just to give you an idea, we’ve only had 4 parties look at it since February, but not one party was interested in making an offer even after dropping the price by $20K…So the plan is to stay put - at least for now - which will be nice. One less thing on our plate. Plus moving is such a pain! More importantly we get to stay in the house we built and love, enjoying the pleasures of lake life – I know, rough life!! :-)

I must say, it’s been a fantastic 15 months as a SAHM! I'm so thankful that I was able to experience this role! I can't imagine any job ever topping it.
Brooke will always be my favorite boss, coworker and teammate.

Certainly the Cutest Boss/Coworker/Teammate I'll ever have...

I will miss that extra time with Brooke and admit I feel a little guilty going back a bit earlier than planned, but I'm comforted knowing how much she enjoys the time with her friends at 4K/Pre-school/Daycare. I'm sure some of you wondered why I was sending Brooke to both preschool and 4K. No, I'm not a "Tiger Mom", (although I do value education) I was just preparing for our new adventure! She’ll have some transitioning to do, (as will I) but I think (hope!) it will be seamless.

That said, I feel relatively good about returning to work and I'm excited about my new role. At the same time I feel little apprehensive, anxious and nervous but that's quite normal, especially for me. I love my comfort zone - all cozy and warm - moving outside of it can be very challenging for me. I don’t mind change, but fear the unknown. I felt the same way when I resigned back in June 2010 and now find myself feeling the same way starting a new job. At least I’m consistent!

I admit the the last several weeks have really flown by - I did my best to really cherish my remaining time as SAHM and the extra time with Brooke. Tomorrow I take on a new "Mommy Label":

Work Out Side of the House Mom!

(I don't like the term "Working Mom", because all moms are "working moms")

Summer is winding down -
Time to relax and listen to some tunes on the Ipod

A new routine awaits us and I’m confident we’ll do just fine.

Opportunity Knocks…

"Hold on a sec, I should probably get this…!!"

And the Adventure continues...

School Days - Here Already!?!

2011-09-08T14:00:00.000-07:00

Sept 8, 2011 - Well, it's official! Brooke is a school-aged child and this week was a busy week for our lil school girl!

On Tuesday, Sept 6th, Brooke started back at preschool. She particiapted in this same program last year, so it was old hat - the new normal.

1st Day of Preschool!

But on Thursday, Sept 8th (today!) she started her 1st Day of 4K. A new school, (a.k.a. "Big Girl School"), new teachers, new friends. She seems so little, especially with all the "big" kids walking around the school.

1st Day of 4K! Packer Day too!

Mom! Please! I don't want anymore pictures!

Fine, take a picture, but I'm not looking! I'm too shy!

Brooke going to find her new friends!

Found them!

Have a GREAT day Sweetie! Enjoy 4K! Love you!!!

My little girl is growing up! I'm not sure how I feel about that...grateful she's healthy and growing....sad that she's no longer my baby...although she often reminds me:

"Mom, I'll always be your baby!"

Music to my hears!

Quick story - During orientation last week, Brooke's 4K teacher read the story "Llama, Llama, Misses Mama". It's about a Llamma who starts school and is shy because he's not use to school and misses his mama. Very cute story! Sitting here alone, I think they need to write another book titled "Mama, Mama, Missess Llama!" It's sure quiet here...I sure do miss my sweetie!

Summer Boating 2011!

2011-09-08T07:54:00.000-07:00

August/September 2011

We've enjoyed boating this summer! It became especially enjoyable the last couple weeks! In the name of "simplification", we traded in our old "put-put" pontoon and finicky Sea-Ray for a...

A PARTY BOAT!

Fast-moving, pleasurable Pontoon!

Yay! And the pleasure is all ours...and any others who wants to come join us!! It's a Sun Catcher - and we've been chasing the sun several times already! Even if we don't actually catch the sun, we're thoroughly enjoying the chase!

We haven't officially named her yet, but "Cinderella" is top of the list! No surprise there! If Brooke had her way, the boat would be pink and purple!

Below are pictures of some of our summer 2011 boating experiences to date! We plan on keeping "Cinderella" docked through mid October, weather permitting of course! The plan is to take some rides up the river and enjoy the fall foliage. I'm sure tasty beverages will also be included!

Clockwise from top right corner: Old Boats - so long! It's been fun!
Brooke with her big Brother Zach! She adores her big brother!
Cody and his Mama, Christa!
Brooke driving the boat with Mama!
Brooke found a clam in the lake! She was so proud!
(Oh My! The Drama Mama! when she found out her dad threw it back in the lake!!!)

Clockwise from top right corner: Brooke and her dad "Land ho!",
CAPTAIN Rrrruuuuuudy on the old Boat!,
Brooke and Mama swimming!
Brooke and Dad navigating our way home!

Fun on the NEW boat! Welcome Cinderella! May all our boating dreams come true!

More fun on Lake Poygan!
CAPTAIN Rrrrruuuddy! He LOVES boat rides. Absolutely LOVEs them!
Sorry Rude Dude, the boat is closed for the evening.
"Cinderella" needs her beauty sleep!

Summer 2011 - What Else Did We Do?

2011-09-07T14:11:00.000-07:00

August 2011

In addition to enjoying some summer birthdays over the last several weeks of summer 2011, we also enjoyed a few low key, but entertaining activities.

Brooke and I joined Uncle Mark, Dylan, Aunt Kathy and her teenage nephews (David and Jonathon) from Florida at Bay Beach! in Green Bay. We had a great time! We just so happened to see Brooke's long lost friend Noah at Bay Beach that day. Brooke and Noah went to Daycare together as babies. They were inseparable then and some things never change! Brooke would have ditched us just to be with Noah! Her first love....awww!

Clockwise from top left corner: Brooke and her ole pal Noah, Dylan riding the boats, more of Brooke and Noah on the train, Uncle Mark and Dylan on the train!

You know summer is ending when you go to the local (Fremont) beach and it's completely empty. Either summer is ending or a storm was brewing.... maybe both!?! We claimed the beach as ours and renamed it: "Brooke Beach". If I remember correctly, it did end up raining in the early evening - we made it home with plenty of time to spare!

The very empty Fremont Beach now known (to us) as "Brooke Beach"

Brooke and I went swimming a the Neenah Pool. I didn't get there as much as I would have liked, but we made it there a couple times in August and had a great time! Brooke loved the fountains - check ou the video!

We took Cody and Brooke to the Waupaca county fair. Both Brooke and Cody loved seeing the animals! Cody especially liked it when grandpa gave him cotton candy for the 1st time! Mmmm!
"Now Cody, don't tell your Mama!  Remember, what happens at the Fair, stays at the Fair!"
Brooke went on a couple rides and I caved in and let her play a game! 5 bucks later she scored a toy crown with a "plume" (her word, not mine). She proceeded to educate me:
"Mom, plume is a fancy word for feather"
Well, Brooke, What's a fancy word for "rip-off"?
Kidding, although I really could have picked up a "plume-filled" crown  at a dollar store - probably 5 for $1! I know - It's the "experience" and memories that count, right? I guess... I'll chalk it up as a "donation" or "stimulating the economy"! All in all we did have fun and that's all that matters!

Clockwise from upper left-hand corner: Cody with his Grandpa, Cody, are you comfortable? Love how he has both legs kicked up! Brooke holding onto her horse! Cody eating Cotton Candy. And Brooke on the Merry-go-round! Notice the $5 crown! Awesome!

Cody and Brooke love the animal at the Fair!

Brooke and I went to this wilderness trail in Menasha. I made the drive into town to run some errands and wanted to take Brooke to a park before heading home. After meeting Mike for lunch, he suggested Heckrodt Wetland Reserve. So I thought I'd check it out. It was pretty cool - a nice change from a typical park. Brooke was a little hesitant to go on the trails - she thought it looked spooky. But I made her - the screaming and crying eventually eased - and we were able to finish one of the short trails with smiles. Inside the Nature Center Facility there are all kinds of animals - live and stuffed. Brooke would have stayed there all day! The highlight for her was the monarch butterflies and caterpillars in there chrysalis. She insisted on a picture with the fawn replica! We also got to witness a frog eat it's dinner. Kind of a funny video check it out!

Brooke with her scared face - "But mom, it's a SPPOOOOKY Trail! I don't want to go!"

I'm not afraid anymore! Did you hear me? I'm not afraid anymore! This calls for a "happy dance"!

We also went to the Kite festival in Two Rivers. Unfortunately there wasn't much wind so it was kind of a long drive for just a few kites, but we had fun in the sand! Brooke loves playing in the sand!

Of course living on the water we had lots of fun boating this summer! It deserves a post of its own! So, stay tuned!

Summer Birthdays!

2011-09-07T14:09:00.000-07:00

Soooo... it's been a while! Looks like the last time I posted was late July? Wow! And now it's September....sheesh!!! Well in the next couple posts I'll try and give a recap of our adventures since my last update:

BIRTHDAYS!!

Well, we celebrated quite a few birthdays in late July/early August!

First up, Brooke's nephew (a.k.a. our grandson!) Cody celebrated his 2nd Birthday! Happy Birthday lil buddy!

Cody: "It's my birthday, I'll cry if I want to....well, at least until I get cake! Mmmm! That's much better!"

Clockwise from top left corner: Cody with his mama, (my step-daughter Christa), Sitting in his birthday chair, playing with a tractor from Uncle Zach and chillin with his great-grandpa Willard!

Then it was Brooke's cousin Aubrey's 5th birthday!

FIVE ALIVE! Happy Birthday Aubrey!

And then her cousin Dylan's 4th birthday!

Happy Birthday Dylan!

Top pic: Cousins Dylan and Mason enjoying cake while Dylan's Dad, Mitch standing by with napkin!
Bottom Pic: Big cousin Brooke helping lil cousin Mason eat some cake! Cute!

Fun was had by all, along with a lot of cake! Mmmmm!

A Step in Time...

2011-07-27T08:59:00.000-07:00

Well, a step on something anyway...

I know you are all on pins and needles (pun intended) waiting to hear all about Mike's foot fetish, I mean foot problems. Without further ado, here's the story:

Back in May, while on vacation, Mike stepped on something. He remembered it being quite painful, but when he looked at his foot he couldn't see anything - not even a puncture wound. He looked on the ground and didn't see anything either. Without any evidence, he wasn't sure what it was or where it was. So, he carried on. As the weeks went on he'd have pain, but only if he stepped wrong. Then a month went by and it really started to hurt to the point where it was too painful to walk. So, after trying to get it out himself with no luck, he finally took some good advice and made an appointment with a health care expert. After a nurse practitioner, family doctor and x-rays, he finally ended up at a foot specialist who said, whatever it is, it's in there deep. SURGERY! Well, they found a little metal wire.

He was on his way to recovery and feeling relatively good. Five days following his surgery I took him to his post op(erative) appointment. Doctor said his foot was healing well and he could drive and return to work, but to take it easy. The next morning I heard him get up @6:00 and figured he felt good and was on his way to work. When I finally made it downstairs around 7:30, I was surprised to see him laying on the couch. He said that he had a lot of pain and felt it was best to work one more day at home. As the day went on the pain got worse. He started taking pain meds, which indicated something wasn't right - he didn't even need pain meds after the initial surgery. Finally, I took him back to the doctor. He came out of the doctor's and said he's being committed...ah, er, I mean, admitted to the hospital.....again! But this time he gets to spend the night! ( or as Brooke said - "A sleep-over", "a pajama party!"). Yeah, not the kind of party I want to attend, at least not in those type of pajamas. All kidding aside, at this point Mike was in excruciating pain due to an infection - MRSA - Look it up by clicking the link. It's not a good thing! (Although one nurse we know said "everyone gets it now", implying it's no big deal.... Doctors we know think it's a big deal - best to to err on the side of caution...)

I shipped Brooke off to her own sleep-over/pajama party with her cousin Aubrey so I could focus on taking care of Mike and his foot for the first couple days following the surgery. Thanks again Aunt Joann and Uncle Bob (Mike's sister and family). Following the successful surgery, I visited Mike at the hospital that evening for a while and then went home - no husband, no kid. I'm not sure that I ever spent an entire night at home without one of the two there...it was weird. I made great use of my time - vegged in front of the television.

The next morning I went to pick Mike up at the hospital and got a lesson in "packing a wound". I also got a good look at the large rectangular, deep, raw hole in Mike's foot. It's a dandy! I have a great picture that I was tempted to share on here, but didn't want to be blamed for vomit filled keyboards of any weak stomached blog readers. Thankfully I don't have a weak stomach for visuals like that, but I wasn't fond of seeing Mike scream/yell/holler in pain, slipping out a couple four letter words as the nurse yanked the gauze out and then stuffed a fresh one in. My husband can annoy me at times, but I still wasn't fond of knowing I get to really hurt him, once a day. Once at home we managed for almost two weeks; -Mike holding a pillow over his face and biting his tongue to prevent Brooke from hearing new vocabulary before she's ready. Needless to say , I was glad when I wasn't required to pack it anymore!

Of course, scientific analysis was conducted on this thin piece of metal - Mike has his connections! Would you expect less from a inquisitive scientist such as Mike? Initially we thought it was a filament from a light bulb, but upon further assessment, it's a low grade stainless steal wire. Mike has the lab data...I'm waiting for him to complete his technical report.

I'm happy to say, about two weeks after his 2nd second surgery, Mike started hobbling back to work again - So far he's made it for a whole five days with no signs of relapse. Let's hope not anyway. I can handle being a stay-at-home-mom, but being a stay-at-home-wife......! Kidding of course! He worked from home for those weeks and was a great patient and rather low maintenance. Brooke enjoyed having him around even though he couldn't really play. In all seriousness, this MRSA can be stubborn, so I am (we all are!) relieved he's back on his feet, literally! It will be several weeks before he'll be able to walk normal - and longer before his foot won't feel a bit tender, but little by little, he'll be stepping in time again!

4th of July Adventures

2011-07-10T18:04:00.000-07:00

July 4, 2011

It was an eventful 4th this year! Just prior to the holiday weekend (Thursday, June 30) Mike had to have surgery on his foot to remove something he stepped on while we were vacationing back in May. Not exactly a great way to start off the holiday weekend, but it had to be done. We made the best of it and carried on. I had every intention on telling Mike's foot story in this blog post, but the story had an unexpected chapter added. No worries he's doing fine now, but before I get into those details, I'll give an overview or some of the more fun 4th of July adventures we experienced this year.

On Friday we made 4th of July pancakes using our handy-dandy cookie cutters
Brooke insisted stars AND flowers (not flags) are all American and appropriate for celebrating America's Birthday!
We placed the cut-out pancakes on a white plate and topped them off with red and blue sprinkles.
Voilà - 4th of July pancakes!

Brooke was so sweet to her dad all weekend long coloring pictures, making crowns and painting ice cream figurines to give to him as "get well" gifts. She insisted they would make him feel better and I think they really did!

Brooke ready to give her get well gift to her dad.
Mike keeping his foot up, working from home and enjoying his "get well" gifts from Brooke
4th of July pancakes - stars and flowers with red and blue sprinkles on a white plate

On Saturday, we went to a Parade in Tustin (a-small-town-blink-and-you'll-miss-it) just 3 miles from our house! Grandpa Willard drove his Model A. It was pretty neat. We were going to drive with him, but Brooke decided collecting candy was more fun than sitting in a hot car smiling and waving to to the crowd. We were able to find a parking spot, where Mike could just sit and watch from the van.

On Sunday (our 11th! anniversary) we went up to "the 19" a.k.a. Mark and Mike West's land in Caroline on the Embarrass River. It was a lot of fun visiting with family and friends. We took our dogs too. Rudy and Jiffi just love it there. Rudy (who is 11 year old now) was in his glory until he went in the river and upon getting out, his hips gave out. The river is down a steep hill, so we had to drive down and get him. I thought it was Rudy's last time at the 19, but he's doing OK now - slow to get up and limps when he walks. Poor old pup! Despite Michael and Rudy sitting the pine, it was a great time. Brooke had a ton of fun playing with her cousins and family friends. A spectacular fireworks show was to follow that evening, (courtesy of Mike & Mark), but given Michael's foot, we thought it would be best to head home. Brooke's cousin Aubrey joined us for the evening. Overall a great day! Thanks to Tessa, Mitch, Erin, Ben, Mike & Mark for EVERYTHING!

Cousins - Brooke, Dylan and Aubrey jumping on the trampoline at the "19"

Brooke's cousin Ruth with her son Aidan

Brooke's Uncle Steve with his grandson Mason

4th of July 2011 at the "19"
(clock-wise from the upper left corner)
Grandpa Willard and his son Carl with Dawn
Micheal sitting the bench. Don't worry he was fed and watered regularly
Mike West grilling up the food
Brooke's cousin Dylan jumping on the trampoline
A rare photo of Mike and I...together! Yeah! Happy Anniversary!

Brooke was super excited about the fireworks this year, (a total 180 from prior years) So, on the way home, we stopped at a stand and bought a few fireworks. The plan was to let off some of our own fireworks before heading to see some "real" ones in Weyauwega. Great plan, except, I obviously didn't pay attention - Aubrey who joined us for the evening was afraid of the fireworks! So here I was with one little girl afraid of fireworks and another little girl about to have a melt down for the lack of fireworks. Oh the drama! (I think both girls were extremely over tired). So, Aubrey stayed back with Mike who was going to rest his foot. Too late at this point to get to Weyauwega, I raced Brooke down the street to watch some fireworks going off over the lake in the distance. Well, apparently seeing fireworks wasn't good enough, Brooke had to HEAR them too! A Disappointed and overtired Brooke we made our way home and into bed! Tomorrow is a new day and another opportunity! Sleep cures all!

On Monday, the 4th there was a Kiddie Parade in our small town of Fremont. Earlier in the week Brooke and I decorated her wagon which was parade ready and waiting. Brooke was so excited and Aubrey joined us too. Brooke was a great flag waver and Aubrey did an excellent job pulling the wagon. Not a lot of candy was thrown, but they tried. It was a lot of fun! They even won a prize - Judges 2nd Choice. Ten dollars! Following the parade we enjoyed free hot dogs, chips and soda! Thanks Fremont, Wisconsin!

Brooke and Aubrey at the Kiddie Parade in Fremont, WI

Later that afternoon, we dropped off Aubrey with her parents in Green Lake (the half-way point between our houses) where yet another festival was going on . There was several attractions for the kids - one being a petting zoo. Following the playground and some ice cream we said our good-byes and headed home.

Petting Zoo in Green Lake!

Being this was the first year Brooke longed to see (and HEAR!) fireworks, I was determined to get her to the "real" big fireworks . So on Monday evening we went to see the Waupaca fireworks. The parking guy noticed Mike holding crutches as we pulled into the parking spot and kindly directed us to a parking spot nice and close! Awesome! (So glad Mike didn't put the crutches on the floor of the back seat). We ended up sitting about 100 yards from our car - which turned out to be perfect given our situation. The fireworks were awesome - we had a great view and could HEAR the loud booms no problem! Even better, Brooke got the firework fix she so desperately wanted!

A long, great, somewhat eventful 4th of July 2011.

Has It Really Been....

2011-07-03T10:36:00.000-07:00

11 Years????

Note: This is from July 2010...
Perhaps we need to take more pictures together...
Or not...

Yeah, I guess it has!

Top of the 12th, with an indefinite number of innings yet to play! Some innings are extremely fun, some quite exciting, some a bit uneventful. Mike, no matter the inning, I'm glad I'm playing all of them with you! Happy Anniversary to my friend and team mate in this game called life!

I know, a bit of a cheesy baseball analogy. With Mike on injured reserve resting his foot (now metal free!), he's been watching a lot (A LOT!) of baseball (and golf, and tennis and...) So, it just kind of came to me... sad, but true!

Oh, Mike's mishap you ask? If you don't already know, stay tuned for the next blog entry for the details...

Happy 3rd...and 4th!!! Hope everyone is having fun!

Actually, I changed my mind...

2011-06-30T13:19:00.000-07:00

June 26, 2011

The day after Brooke's birthday, we went on our annual strawberry hunt at Cuffs Farms - a 3rd time for Brooke, who really enjoys picking strawberries but for some reason has always refused to eat them.

Mom, I found a juicy red one!

Well, while we were busy picking out the perfect strawberries on this fine day, one of the Cuffs' employees came out to the field with chocolate covered strawberries for their patrons to try. Yep, really!! Crazy I know! Talk about great service! Anyways, Brooke loves, I mean capital L-O-V-E-S, loves chocolate. When she hears the word chocolate she's like our dog when he hears the word "treat" or "walk" or "outside". (I know, I shouldn't compare my daughter to a dog, but it's truly how she responds to the word "chocolate")

With ears perked, she ran to me, tugging at my shirt saying she wanted to try the chocolate. Surprise, surprise! Her statement afterward:

"Actually, Mom, I changed my mind. I like strawberries now."

Now, this is how strawberries should be eaten!

Well of course you do!
When covered in chocolate, what's not to like!
(Hmmm...Broccoli dipped in chocolate? How 'bout green beans? I won't win any parenting awards, but it may be the only way I get Brooke to eat vegtables!)

Mmmm! Chocolate and Strawberries- who knew it could taste so good!
(Please excuse my dad's bum in the background!)

The other statement of the day: On our tractor/wagon ride back to the car, Brooke looks at the two baskets of strawberries and says.

"Mom, I'm sorry, but Daddy won! He has more!"

Gotta love her comepetitve spirit.
I wonder where she got that from?

If you must know, Mike may have won for quantity, but I won on quality! Ha! Ha!

So, guess what we "needed" to make when we got home with our strawberries?

Yep you guessed it - Chocolate covered ones!

Busted!

Happy Birthday Precious Love

2011-06-25T21:08:00.000-07:00

JUNE 25, 2011
It was on this date, four years ago, the sun suddenly appeared brighter, the sky turned bluer and my smile was forever bigger! Happy Birthday to my Precious Love, Brooke! I can't believe you're FOUR! We love you Sweetie!

Brooke wanted a few friends from her preschool over for her big #4 birthday. Can you guess what kind of party she wanted?

Princess of course!

Which means a Castle Cake!!

It was fun to make! Brooke did a great job helping me decorate!

Keeping with the theme, all the princesses made crowns and little purses to carry all their jewels and treasures. In addition, we played pin the crown on the castle and had a Cinderella Pinata. (No silly you don't beat Cinderella, you pull strings until the candy falls out...!)

It was a great day, great weather and fun was had by all!

Make a wish Sweetie! (My wish already came true!)

Happy Birthday Sweetie - Keep on smiling! Keep on laughing!

Thanks to all for the birthday wishes, cards and presents. Also, an extra special thanks to Aunt Jo-Jo (Mike's sister), who helped me with the princess party - You are a natural when it comes to entertaining 8 little girls! Thanks a ton!

Babysitter

2011-06-22T12:57:00.000-07:00

June 17, 2011

I was a babysitter last week! This was no ordinary babysitting job...it was babysitting my step-daughter Christa's little boy, Cody. Yep, Cody came to our house to spend the day while his parents were at work. We had a lot of fun! Brooke was so very helpful - a very good Aunt! Below are some pictures of what our day looked like! (click on the pictures for a closer look)

Playing ball, of course!

Water Tables are Fun!

Reading books during quiet time!

Bike Riding Fun! Cody Cried wheneve we stopped!
Keep going Kate!

Playing in the pool together!

Sprinklers are fun!

No, Cody! Do it like this!

Going down the slide!

Tag! You're it! Cody Chases down his aunt!

All-in-all a great day! It gave me an idea of what it would be like to have two kids! And in case anyone ever wondered, but didn't feel comfortable asking, Mike and I want and have tried to give Brooke a little brother or sister, but it's begining to appear as if it isn't meant to be. (fertility issues strike again, ugh!) And at this point we’re starting to think, that ship has sailed or at the very least it’s beginning to leave the dock. I’m getting old and well, Mike is, well, umm, how shall I say?, “older” - J. I'm just so very, very grateful we were able to finally have Brooke. It appears God has other plans for us. Perhaps one of the things is doing what I did on this day - Spending quality time with both Brooke and my step-grandson, Cody! Thanks for coming over Code-Man! We'll see you next Friday!

Brooke's 1st Dance Class

2011-06-18T07:36:00.000-07:00

On June 15th, Brooke started dance class!.After dancing around the house daily for over a year, it was time to enroll her!

She did great! Listened to the teacher intently and wasn't a bit shy.

It was so fun to watch her...well, see for yourself!

Fun times for sure!

Check!

2011-06-15T05:35:00.000-07:00

Ballet shoes? Check!

Tights? Check!

Leotard? Check!

It appears someone is ready for her first dance class today!

Signs of Summer!

2011-06-13T09:42:00.000-07:00

June 13, 2011

Well, in my opinion, Mother Nature has been hanging out with Old Man Winter way too long!* I think they may have become a little bit more than friends up here in the midwest! It's a reckless, on-again/off-again relationship and it's time they break up and go their separate ways. It's in the best interest for, well, the children...and me!! Despite a short fling last week, I think we are starting to see a glimpse of Mother Nature moving on to bigger and better things:
SUMMER!
Here are some signs summer is appearing in the picture....Finally!

Well, the first sign: "Schoooools out for summer!..."
(the song is stuck in your head now isn't it? You're welcome!)
Yep, Brooke finished her first year of pre-school! She did great! Thanks to Ms. Nancy and her staff for all that they do! Hard to believe Brooke will be in 4 year old kindergarten next year...tear!

Last day of pre-school - May 2011
Getting her "diploma"
Sitting with big brother Zach
Not wanting her picture taken outside the school

1st day of preschool - Sept 2010

Another sign of summer - the inflatable pools, sprinklers, and slip and slide are hard at work

Cousins! Brooke & Aubrey enjoying Sprinkler fun!

Yet another sign - A summer haircut and a day at Sunset Beach in Kimberly! It was a hot, hot day that day! Loved it!

Summer haircut and a day at the beach!

The Boats are docked and we enjoyed our first boat ride of 2011! More boat rides to follow! Can't wait!

First boat ride! Brooke gave 110% and then needed a nap!

Finally, Bonfires are officially on the summer evening agenda!

Hey, you want a s'more?
Some more of what?
No, do you want a s'more?
I haven't had anything yet... so how can I have some more of nothing?
You're killing me, Smalls!...

"The Sandlot"

Love that movie!

Well happy SUMMER everyone! Enjoy!

*Thanks to Andrea for the funniest FB Post ever
I adopted, tweaked it and and cleaned it up a bit...for the sake of the children!

Whose Birthday is it?

2011-05-27T06:59:00.000-07:00

This Guys!!!

Mike holding up his princess card and photos - what he always wanted, I'm sure!
Brooke and I had fun making his fish cake!

With age comes wisdom! Happy Birthday Wise Guy!

We love you tons!

Brooke giving her daddy his gifts! Happy Birthday Dad! Love you!!!

FL Vacation Phase 4 - TPC Sawgrass

2011-05-27T04:54:00.000-07:00

THE PLAYERS Championship

Mike and I really enjoy golf - both playing and watching, although I'll say Mike is more of a fanatic, where I'm just a fan. There's one thing we both love and that's THE PLAYERS Championship - TPC Sawgrass

Mike is on cloud 9 when he's there (any golf tournament for that matter). I also enjoy this particular golf event because I've been to it a number of times when I lived in the area (back in the day!). So we were very excited when a friend of the family offered us tickets for this year's practice round.

(Thanks so much Jessica E.! We really appreciated the tickets and had a ton of fun!)

The one golfer I love following is Phil Mickelson! I'm a huge fan (who isn't!?!). Other than the fact he's a great golfer and a top notch guy, he swings left handed - just like me! So, I've always followed him - even way back in the 90's when he wasn't quite as famous. So, that's the one golfer I wanted to see for sure while there this year. Mike and I followed him for a few holes. After #13 a little boy asked Phil for his autograph. He told the boy nicely that he's not signing any autographs right now, but he might after 18, although he wasn't making any promises. At that point I hadn't gotten any one's autograph - didn't really think about, but suddenly thought, why not? So, I took off my pink visor and started handing it to the golfers offering autographs along with the rest of the crowd. I didn't know who some of these golfers were, but Mike did, of course! He instructed me who I should try and get. The only golfer that I kept on thinking about was Phil who was approaching #18. Well, it was getting quite hot and I had a decision to make; either head towards the air conditioned hospitality tent (part of the ticket! Thanks Jessica!) or fight the crowds for a glimpse at Phil and maybe, just maybe, an autograph! Well, I'll let the pictures speak for themselves:

Here he comes....get that pink visor ready

Mr Mickelson - the pink visor..... please?!

Please Phil! Please, please, please! I swing left handed too!

Ahh! Yes, the pink visor! Awesome! Thanks so much!

Thanks again Phil! You're the best!

I admit, initially I wasn't going to try for Mickelson's autograph...I was extremely hot and dying for something to drink. Plus, even if he were signing, given the large crowds, I probably wouldn't get it anyway. But then something told me the obvious - you won't get it if you don't try. The 'ole quote "you miss 100% of the shots you don't take!" came in my head. So, I went to 18 along with the crowds and boy am I glad that I did. From that point forward, I was on cloud 9!

We got a number of other golfers autographs too. I almost didn't get Dustin Johnson's. He almost passed missed my visor when this little boy, not much older than 4 years old, said, "Dustin, you forgot her hat!" He stopped and said, "I'll do it cuz he asked nicely!" Thanks little buddy, whoever you are!

Overall a very fun day! Mike was in his glory being in an environment he loves and after I got Phil's autograph, so was I! Not to mention Brooke was having fun and being spoiled by Memaw and Pop Pop! Given that our vacation had to end, this was a nice way to end it!

Sergio Garcia (no autograph, he was too quick!)
Autographs from Jim Furyk (photo opp too!)
and Steve Marino

17th Island Green - Most photographed Hole!

The pink visor getting passed around: Retief Goosen, Dustin Johnson,

Charl Schwartzel, Louis Oosthuizen, Joe Durant

FL Vacation Phase 3 - Ponte Vedra Beach

2011-05-25T13:51:00.000-07:00

Following our week stay in Ormond Beach we headed north towards my old stomping grounds - Ponte Vedra and Jacksonville Beaches. We stayed with Rita and Brenton - two very special people in my life who have been like parents to me. Brooke knows them as Memaw and Pop-pop!

Brenton - a.k.a. Pop-Pop!

Rita - a.k.a. Memaw!

An Alligator in Memaw and Pop Pop's Lake!
No worries! Dad will save me!

Brooke loves to play with Mondo Dog!

We had a great time visiting with Memaw and Pop Pop; playing at the park, swimming at their pool and walking the beach a few blocks from their home. I also had chance to visit with some of my friends that live in the area! It was fun to see them. Unfortunatley I didn't get to see everyone. Next time I'll coordinate with everyone better! I promise! We also had an opportunity to go to The Players Championship at Sawgrass (more to come on that!). While Mike and I were enjoying a day watching professional golf, Brooke was spoiled by Memaw and Pop for for the entire day. She's so lucky (as are we!)

Ponte Vedra Beach Fun!

A day at the Park with Brooke. "Light House Jumping" A new sport!
And coffee with my good friend Jill and her precious twin girls!

Although we spent almost a week there, the time seemed to fly by too quickly. I just love being back there! Everytime we go we end up brainstorming how we might figure a way to move down there....it's just a matter of time! (I hope!).

Thanks for everything Rita & Brenton!! We love and miss you guys! Hope to see you soon!

FL Vacation Phase 2 - Ormond Beach

2011-05-23T08:10:00.000-07:00

Phase 2 - Ormond Beach Bums!

Following Disney Fun, we headed towards my favorite place - the beach! We exchanged our timeshare this year for the Royal Floridian in Ormond Beach. The weather couldn't have been better - mid 80's all week! (One day a "cold front" moved in - high of "only" 80) It was great! Our unit had ocean views from the living room and one of the two bedrooms. I was in my ultimate comfort zone. I love being on and around water, and I don't think there's any place I love more than an ocean beach. And, there is nothing better than starting my morning watching the sun come over the ocean while sitting on the balcony sipping coffee...in my pajamas!! Brooke joined me a few of the mornings - "Mom, the sun is peeking!", she'd say.

In addition to welcoming the sun every morning, a lot of time was spent on the beach. Brooke was so fun! She did her usual sandcastle building with her dad and me, but found even more fun in chasing the birds and dancing in the waves. (She called it her "water dance"). She was in her own little world all the while entertaining us!

Sand Castle Building Beauty! Quote from Brooke when leaving the beach:

“Let’s destroy it (the sand castle), so no one will ruin it!”

Not sure where she learned that from....

Beach Dancer!

Beach Runner!

Pool Side Diva! (No, not Mike....I'm talking about Brooke! Ok, Mike too!)

Mike's cousin Kevin came up for the day. Sorry, I neglected to take any pictures...but we had a good time - enjoyed lunch and some beverages. It was nice to see him!

One afternoon we went down to Ponce Inlet light house. I was the only one who braved the 203 steps to the top, but admit my knees were a bit wobbly. Beautiful views from the top! After the lighthouse, we had lunch at a nice restaurant where replicas of the Nina and Pinta were docked.

Except for the Light house excursion we stayed at the condo where we did a lot of relaxing on the beach and at the pool - just the way we liked! More pictures below!

The condo had a little miniature golf course right next to the pool which we tried. It was entertaining just watching Brooke try and hold a club. We tried to teach her, but she's in that never ending stage of "I can do it myself". Putting? Well, let's just say, she has a long way to go, but at least she's trying. One final activity - I started running again while staying at the beach. For some reason a two mile run came easy with the ocean being literally a step away*!

Overall it was a great time at Ormond Beach; relaxing, low key, fun & beautiful! But it was time to check out and move on. Next stop - Ponte Vedrea Beach!

*note - my work outs were short lived. I haven't run since returning home. My legs are going through ocean beach withdrawal. A cure has yet to be found...

Vacation Phase 1: Orlando Disney Fun!

2011-05-19T09:43:00.000-07:00

Florida Vacation 2011 - Phase 1
We spent the first 3 days of our vacation in Orlando. The strategy was to get Disney in first before heading beach side to relax. So, the first day we just hung out and relaxed. We frequented the hotel pool and walked to Downtown Disney, a place with all kinds of shops, food and entertainment. Brooke had fun with the fun-house type mirror and loved the princess statues outside the gigantic Disney store. It was a nice walk and overall good first day in Orlando, well, except for later that evening when Brooke ran out of gas and had her one and only major meltdown of the entire vacation! It was a real doozy! We apologize to anyone in the hotel rooms next to us that evening. I'm certain the nearly 2 hour crying/screaming fit wasn't the entertainment you ordered. Oh joy! On the bright side, she got it out her system on day 1. From that point forward, Brooke was perfect! :-)

Downtown Disney and Swimming!

The 2nd day was what Brooke has been talking about for months!

Seeing the Princesses!

Oh my! I'm not sure who was more excited, Brooke or us getting to watch Brooke! It was so special watching her! You see, Brooke loves the princesses - knows them all. She plays out the stories daily (I often have to play the step-mother, ironic I know!), reads about them, dresses up as them, watches all their movies! She couldn't wait see them! Then the moment arrived. We walked in this building - timed it just right! The lines were surprisingly short - only a dozen or so people in front of us. When it was our turn we walked in this room and there stood three princesses: Sleeping Beauty, Belle, and Cinderella! Brooke was mesmerized by the site of them. I was so impressed with how much time each princess took with each little girl. It was great! We had the chance to see a few more princess and characters around the park as well.
Pictures below - click on them to get a closer look :-)

Brooke next in line to see the princesses!

Sleeping Beauty!

Belle from Beauty and the Beast

Cinderella!

The Parade!!! It was very hot!

More fun Pictures! Mary Poppins, Peter Pan (Apparently too scary!), Ariel and a carousal ride. Note on the Ariel Pictures - after waiting for 45 minutes, Brooke decided she was too shy to take a picture with Ariel....Thank you Ariel for convincing her otherwise! Leaving empty handed after 45 minutes would have been very disappointing. So, Thanks again!

The Castle and the ever so "original" family picture in front of it!

We only spent one day at Disney World which was just the right amount of time for this 3 (almost 4!) year old. She was exhausted by the end of the day, as were we. You know that a kid is extremely tired, when while at Disney World, she says "I'm tired. Are we gonna go soon?" We'll go back in a few years when she's a little older and try some of the rides she refused (which was most of them!) and then check out a few of the other parks too. All in all, a fun time and a great experience! Brooke's favorite part of this vacation:
"Seeing the Princesses"
Of course! It's all about making memories!!!!

Florida - Sweet Sixteen!

2011-05-16T20:55:00.000-07:00

May 16, 2011

No, I'm not talking about March Madness basketball. Rather, "Florida Vacation 2011!" Fantastic! Sixteen, yes, 16! straight days of 80+ degree weather! Sweet! Can't get much sweeter in my opinion!

Originally we planned on driving, but found some pretty incredible deals on flights. Basically, all three of us flew for less than what it would be to drive (at nearly $4/gallon)! Score! When I told Brooke we were going to fly instead of drive, her only request.... "no loop-de-loops". I assured her that the pilots wouldn't do that - at least not on purpose!

Southwest Airlines was awesome! No delays or cancellations and all luggage arrived to our destination without issue. And Brooke was a great traveler; understanding going through security, patient before boarding and perfect on the plane! Both going and coming, she fell asleep with in 30 minutes of take off! This was a much different experience than a couple years ago...so we were stoked! A great start indeed! Below are several pictures of our lil traveler!

Waiting to board!

Snack before take-off!

We got lift off ! Brooke is comforting her duck!

We made it!

Taking the train to get our luggage and rental!

Future World Traveler?!?!

Train ride to the terminal!

Come on Dad! Keep up!

Given the length of our vacation and amount of activity this year (I'm so very grateful!), I'm going to share the rest of our vacation in phases...stay tuned. (Links will appear below as available!)

Phase 1 - Orlando & Disney Fun!

Phase 2 - Ormond Beach

Phase 3 - Ponte Vedra Beach

Phase 4 - The Players at Sawgrass

A Change in Environment...

2011-05-01T06:56:00.000-07:00

.....is good for the soul!!!

Snow in April!

Beach Life and Lovin it!

Easter Egg Decorationg Fun!

2011-04-24T07:30:00.000-07:00

April 23, 2011

Saturday morning started with an Easter Egg hunt at the local elementary school. Nothing fancy...just collect some eggs and turn them in for a prize. Brooke wanted nothing to do with the Easter bunny! She stayed far, far away!

Easter Egg Hunt 2011

Later that afternoon Zach, Christa and Cody came out to our house for dinner and Easter Egg Decorating Fun! And Fun it was! We had several spills and in the end some dyed fingers, pants, shirts and even socks, but oh so fun and memorable! I think Zach wins for most dedicated, most focused and most decorative! I crown him Easter Egg decorating King!

EASTER 2011

Brooke taste testing the Rice Krispy Treat Egg
and dying the traditional eggs... PINK....Of course!

Cody's Easter Egg Decorating Debut! Great Job Buddy! So glad we could be part of it!

The Egg Decorating KING! Check out the masterpiece!

April Showers...?

2011-04-19T08:15:00.000-07:00

Yes, April SNOW showers....

This picture kind of sums up what we think of 5-8 inches of snow in APRIL!

Those are some sad pups!

Our annual trip to Florida can't start soon enough! It's long winters like these that I ask myself, why did I ever leave the sunshine state?

The Crowning of a Princess

2011-04-19T08:14:00.000-07:00

Ok – I’m documenting this latest event with a lot of guilt. Yes Mr. Guilt! A regular visitor I’m VERY familiar with….part of being a mother, but also plain old a part of me!

Anyway…last week Brooke had dental surgery! No worries all went well. It was the crowning of the Princess! Not only does she wear a princess crown on her head, but she now dons several “princess crowns” inside her mouth! A million dollar smile! Well, not a million, but a good chunk of change!

The Crowning of a Princess

Here’s the story behind the story - Several weeks back she was complaining of pain in her bottom molar. When I looked at her suspect tooth, it looked like it was chipped/cracked. So off to Brooke’s 1^st Dentist Visit where we found out, that “chipped” lower molar was actual decay. Ugh! To add to the excitement, the dentist found a few cavities between her molars! Yikes! Ok - bring on the judgment! I can take it! Trust me, I am my worse critic…I feel horrible! But we brush her teeth every night and in the morning - I don’t understand! Well, the dentists (yes, plural – dentists) said a combination of things probably played together – no fluoride in our well water, genetics, night nursing, (dare I say it? she nursed at night for a long time!), inadequate flossing, too much juice, etc. (On a positive note, I’m proud to say it’s not a result of soda! She won’t drink it; “Too spicy”!) Well, whatever the reason(s), Brooke had cavities at age 3 1/2 requiring her to be put under general anesthetic. We went to several dentists for second, third and fourth opinions, because, they are baby teeth and will eventually fall out, right? They all said that the molars won’t fall out until around age 12, so it’s vital to have them taken care of (especially that one) to prevent further decay and/or infection. Given her age and the type/amount of work, general anesthesia was required. I admit I was nervous, but she did fine. So – that’s that! April 13, 2011 will be remembered as the day Brooke was “crowned”.

Well, needless to say, a whole new spotlight has been focused on teeth brushing, flossing and general teeth care. It was implied recently that I may have turned obsessive compulsive, but anything to prevent more dental work and a visit from Mr. Guilt - He visits too much already!

March Away

2011-04-12T17:57:00.000-07:00

Yep, we are well into April, but I thought I'd do a quick recap on our March

In March, Zach turned 21! WOW!

As a 21 year old, Zach was able to enjoy his first legal alcoholic beverage! He wasted no time! With St Patrick's Day approaching, his mission the following week- to find a place that serves green beer. Well, he called several local establishments and he was told to bring in some green food coloring and they'd add it to a beer, but he wanted the "real" green beer. Nothing like determination! He finally found his "real" green beer in New Dublin (New London) during Irish Fest. We wish we would have joined him...certainly would have been more fun than what we did that day, I'm sure! Well, Happy Birthday Zach! Here's to many more - and remember, if you're gonna drink, drink responsibly!

Well, in March we had a glimpse of spring, which was short lived. One day Brooke was sporting her flip flops and getting her toenails summer-ready;

the next day we were hit with an ice and snow storm. Oh well, back inside we went....That leads us to the common activity of the winter - coloring and painting. As long as this winter has been, Brooke has become a pretty good painter.

We also play dolls and house and yes, believe it or not, "shoe store". Her idea not, mine! This girl is still very obsessed with shoes!

Through March I enjoyed assisting the girls Varsity Basketball team this year. My first time every coaching at this level. I learned a lot from some great coaches as well as the players. We ended our season 10-4 in our conference and 14-9 overall. A very good season with a great group of talented girls! It was a lot of fun!

School also added to the busy-ness of March. I'm still thinking about getting certified to teach middle and high school math through UW - Fox Valley's act! Program. So, instead of just thinking about it, I thought I actually take a class to see how it goes. I'm taking Reading 440, a required course if I want to teach Math....go figure! Seriously though, it's a very interesting class and I do realize the importance of reading even in math class. Relative to those old engineering courses it's not a difficult course, just very time consuming. I have to read...yep, that's what Reading 440 requires - reading - imagine that! Joking of course! Beyond the reading, there are lesson plans and several papers to write - again, not difficult, but time consuming especially for this detail oriented engineering brain.

I don't plan on taking classes during the summer as I want to enjoy summer spending my time with Brooke and family - the whole reason I took this self-proclaimed sabbatical from work in the first place. I'll revisit the idea of another class come fall - "Teaching (math) Methods". We'll see!

Well that's March for you....Marching on!

Oh! So Chic!

2011-03-03T08:18:00.000-08:00

Thursday - March 3, 2011

On Tuesday, Brooke got a haircut

Brooke's "before" look
taken while eating breakfast

Her 2nd haircut.....Ever!

The stylist suggested a cute bob to clean up the ends which were getting a bit straggly

"I can still wear it up, or to the side,
or with a pink hair barrett....the possiblities are endless!"

Typical girly-girl...checking out her hair in the mirror at home.

She found my old
clip-on earings
(circa 1991)

The head-tilt look

The next day Brooke raided my jewlery box to make her new look complete!

On her way to school today to show her friends her new look!

Ya Wanna Hear a Dirty Joke...?

2011-02-28T16:56:00.000-08:00

Feb 28, 2011

Today after preschool Brooke said, "Mom, today at school I read a dirty book" (yes, she emphasized the word dirty)

"Really? What was the book?" I ask wondering where this conversation might take us today.

"Yes! It was a book about germs", Brooke replied. (Again, emphasis on the word germs)

"Oh! Thank God! Ahh, um, I mean, sounds interesting" I say relieved at her response.

I really wasn't that concerned, but at this age, you never know what they might say!

Getting Down & Dirty with Hot Chocolate!

Someone Is Ready for the Snow to Melt!

2011-02-16T21:09:00.000-08:00

Feb 16, 2011
I think everyone in this house is looking forward to green grass, sunny skies and warm temperatures. (Oh, how I long for 80 degrees!!!) In anticipation for the next season, Brooke and I dusted off her bike this afternoon. With minimal snow on the road I let her giver her bike a spin to make sure it was in working order and ready for spring/summer!

It's ready!

Piece of cake! It's just like.....riding a bike!

Brooke also participated in one of her favorite spring time activities: Jumping in puddles! She hasn't lost that talent! It seems to be one of her joys in life. So simple and carefree! I think her motto is more along the lines of
"When life hands you puddles...go jump in them!"

Jump Up!

SPLASH!
No worries! Dry clothes, a warm blanket and story time followed this adventure!

Well, the warmer weather is a start - although I have a feeling another snow storm will visit us before winter is officially behind us. I hope I'm wrong, but if not, at least I see a light at the end of the tunnel....

What's Your Sign?

2011-02-10T20:51:00.000-08:00

Feb 10, 2011

Mike and I have a new sign....

FOR SALE!

Yep, our house is for sale! Can you believe it? And if the stars align we will be moving to a new home. We have an accepted offer on a house that feels perfect for us at this stage. The offer is contingent on us selling our house. Yes, selling our house will be the real challenge. Did I mention the stars have to align?

I admit, it's a weird feeling, especially when I saw the For Sale sign go up in our yard yesterday. I love this house! We built it making it very special to us. I love having water access and being a very short walk to the lake - it's a very quiet and peaceful neighborhood, and especially beautiful in the summer. And I love our neighbors. It won't be easy to leave, but it seems like it's the right step to make given the house we found, phase of our life and our long term goals.

"SIMPLIFY"

It's a word that's been spoken quite often in our house over the last year. In June we took a step to simplify when I resigned from work. I've been able to focus on our daughter and the overall household activities and Mike is able to focus on work - all an effort simplify our lives. We both agree it's been a great year! Well, now we have an opportunity to simplify our lives yet again by "downsizing" and moving closer into town where "convenience" may become our new favorite word.

Given the economy, we are well aware that it will be a challenge to sell our house at the right price. In this housing market, the odds are probably against us. The way we look at it: if we have trouble selling our house and get bumped on our accepted offer then it just wasn't meant to be. Which means we'll have to spend another summer boating on the lake! I think we can handle that kind of disappointment. Yeah, rough life, I know! :-)!

Whatever the outcome, things always seem to find a way of working out for us. We'll keep everyone posted on our progress! Time will tell!

By the way, if you know anyone in the market....

Champions!

2011-02-07T22:32:00.000-08:00

Jan 7, 2011

Green Bay Packers!

Superbowl Champions!

On Superbowl Sunday Brooke helped make Packer Pies with her Dad! Pay no attention to the purple dress... Brooke LOVES to wear dresses and unfortunately she does not have any green dresses that fit. Major fail on my part! Oh well, at least I could convince her to wear "Thee Hat!" although it wasn't easy...

Photo Opp? More like photo flop!
We got one eventually! Lil Rascal!

Mike and I were able to score a babysitter for the Superbowl! (One benefit of assisting the girls HS basketball team - great babysitters that drive! Thanks Ellen!). Anyway, we had a GREAT time with some of our friends and neighbors at a local establishment in Fremont. It was great to watch the game kid-free and only a few minutes from home. Fun (and intense) times for sure!

A note on "Thee Hat". My brother Mike and I bring it out on Packer games - it's our version of a lucky rabbit's foot. And it came through for us this season! "Thee Hat" belonged to our dad - the late Jim Schlicht. I'm certain he was up there enjoying the game...! Forever in our hearts!

That's me when I was around Brooke's age (3yrs)
Wearing my Dad's shoes, coat and "Thee Hat"

My Brother Mike wearing "Thee Hat"
while watching the game at our house over the holidays!

Just couldn't resist adding this one of Brooke as a baby....
Thee hat made a great covering for Brooke's bald head!

Red Sled She Said!

2011-01-19T08:20:00.000-08:00

Jan 19, 2011 - I try and get Brooke outside everyday to get some fresh air and break up the day. With light snow falling almost daily last week, we had fun sledding everyday just outside our house. The side yard between our house and Grandpa Willard's has just enough of an incline to make a fun ride for a 3 year old! So much fun!

It's times like these I think how lucky I am - getting to spend fun and carefree weekday afteroons playing with our little girl. Priceless! Yes, I'm enjoying every moment! :-)

Competitive Spirit

2011-01-19T08:10:00.000-08:00

Jan 19, 2011 - Brooke trash-talking after a mean game of Candy Land we played the other night before bedtime! I wonder where she learned that competitive spirit?

Winner! Winner! Chicken Dinner!

By the way: Go Packers!!

The Holidays 2010

2011-01-01T23:12:00.000-08:00

Jan 1, 2011 - First let me start out by saying HAPPY NEW YEAR!! We had a great Christmas this year - So very, very Fun! As I've said in at least one previous post, celebrating the holiday with a 3 year old is fantastic! Through the eyes of a three year old, everything is new, fun, and beautiful; from decorating the Christmas tree(s), to frosting cookies, to driving by houses decorated with lights. It was often the simple things that made this 3 year old excited. Of course, unwrapping gifts was the ultimate and Brooke received A LOT of very nice gifts (a BIG GIANT THANKS to all!). Although I neglected to capture pictures while at all our holiday events (I apologize in advance...) I thought I'd share a few of the great memories I was able to capture from Christmas 2010 below. (click on the images to get a closer look)

Leading up to Christmas, Brooke repeated many times "I'm shy about Santa" Well, not anymore...presents change everything! Thanks Uncles for coordinating a visit from Santa. You must have been able to pull some strings to get a special visit from him on Christmas Eve...fun times for sure!

Brooke makes friends with Santa - even a hug! Wow!

Hanging out with Zach on Christmas Eve!

How many dads out there received sparkly shoes for Christmas? Brooke insisted her dad needed/wanted some. It was a special project Brooke and I tackled...and now I'll be cleaning up glitter for months to come, but it sure was fun!

Just call me twinkle toes!

What I've always wanted!

See Dad, we added basketballs to give it that masculine look!

The BIG gift Santa delivered to our house this year - A DOLL HOUSE for Brooke!

Great food and great fun was found at Aunt Kaye and Uncle Rick's where we celebrated Christmas with more family! Last year Brooke was glued to my hip. This year, not so much! She felt right at home - chatting to anyone who would listen and dancing up a storm. It was great to see you guys! Thanks for everything!

Brooke was a happy camper when she learned uncle Mike was coming to our house for a few days. On the second morning she woke up and asked "Is uncle Mike still here?" When I said that he was, she exclaimed "Wow! He stayed TWO nights?" They bonded over coloring books and a Tinkerbell movie! Thanks for visiting uncle Mike! Come again soon!

Brooke played with the train Santa brought her. Well, we learned it's not just a train set, but a Barbie shoe & accessory delivery system!

Shoes delivered in the green box car!

FREE shipping! Bonus!

Watch out Barbie! The train is coming! I hope you're wearing the right shoes!

Who knew that several of Brooke's gifts would come together so nicely? The race track attaches to the third floor of the doll house and leads to the railroad crossing. Cars race down the track trying to avoid the train which is carrying shoes and accessories to the Barbies. As an added bonus, the race track is a makeshift slide for the Barbies chillin' in their house. All this playing while sporting her new pajamas...double; no wait, quadruple the fun! These are the gifts that just keep on giving...! Thanks everyone!

I think the car made it across!

Crash and Burn Barbie!

As a final reminder from Christmas 2010, the words to "Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow..." are actually "let it go, let it go, let it go..."! Now that I've been properly informed, I'll be better prepared next year! (I'm also adopting it as my motto for 2011!)

We hope everyone enjoyed their holiday! Tomorrow, Jan 2 we get to celebrate with Brooke's nephew, Cody (his mom & dad too) while watching the packer game!! One last Christmas celebration, then it's back to work and back to pre-school! Happy New Year Everyone!

No Man Snowman!

2010-12-12T18:41:00.000-08:00

December 12, 2010 - The first snow of December 2010 started this weekend. Brooke LOVES it! We were out in it during the first lite snow on Friday, then again on Saturday and very briefly today.

We had to build a snowman....no, wait! I've been corrected! Not a snowMAN, a snowPRINCESS! Of course, our girly-girl, must have a snowprincess with a crown to be complete. (she insisted!)

Building a SnowPrincess...

With a crown....

Lovely!

In addition to the snowPrincess, Brooke loves throwing snowballs, dumping shovels of snow on the dogs, sled rides and making snow angels!

Throwing Snow!

Shovel full of snow....

Watch Out Rudy!

Sled Ride!

Snow Angel!

Fun and amazing, especially considering last year she wanted nothing to do with this white stuff. This weekend she couldn't get enough! Well today was a bit windy, but she still went out for a few minutes - just enough time to get some fresh (cold) air!

Next on Brooke's snowy agenda?
A snowFort you ask?
No, Silly! A SnowCastle! (What else would you expect from this princess?!)

The Christmas Tree Hunt 2010

2010-12-11T13:34:00.000-08:00

December 11, 2010 - Last Friday (Dec 4th) we ventured out to Harmony Hill Evergreens for our annual Christmas Tree Hunt. (Or should I say popcorn tasting!)

Tree Searching and Popcorn Tasting

Chopping Down the Tree

Success! "Nice Job Dada"

Brooke celebrates with another handful of popcorn!

Tree decorating with Brooke as a talkative 3 year old was a blast this year! Every ornament was "look at this one...!" or "Wow, this one is beautiful". We even set up a little tree in her bedroom this year trimmed with, (of course), pink bulbs. I was informed that purple ones would make it "perfect" Our response to her numerous Christmas gift "requests": "Maybe santa will bring some...."

"This one will go riigghhhttt here!"

Looks great, Brooke!

Brooke's very own tree in her bedroom! Pink ornaments, of course!

Side note: the red dress you see in these pictures, and likely several pictures in past and future blog posts, is Brooke's "Christmas dress" from last year. It still fits and she just loves it! She asks to wear it almost daily, especially when we are doing something Christmas-sy". "Mom, can I please wear my Christmas dress for a teeny tiny little bit?" It's so sweet the way she asks and I love that it's getting worn so well - (originally a hand-me-down from her cousin)! I wanted to make it clear it's not the only dress she has, just her very favorite....and I say: Let the little girl twirl!

Well it's officially looking a lot like Christmas, especially now that we just received several inches of snow! Brooke loves the snow (unlike last year!). Stay tuned for more updates on our first date with snow in Dec 2010!!

Brooke Verbatims!

2010-12-04T09:47:00.000-08:00

December 4, 2010 - Over the last month Brooke has been coming up with some real dandies. You never know what might come out of a 3 year old's mouth. Embarrasing? Perhaps! Funny? For sure! Below are a couple stories from recent weeks I want to capture......and share! Enjoy!

Verbatim #1
Brooke and I frequent the library in Fremont. In addition to getting books, we also check out the movies they have available. There's a section of movies for kids and I let her pick out one or two. One day I decided to look to see what movies Mike and I might like to see in the 'non-kid' section. I found one that we hadn't seen and decided to check it out - ("Up In the Air" with George Clooney). When Brooke was ready with her movies, she noticed I had a movie too. She asked, "Is that a movie for you and daddy?"
"Yep", I replied. "I found one for big people, like mommies and daddies. Daddy and I will watch it after you go to bed"
Then she proceeded to ask, "Is it a naughty movie?"
I heard laughs from the librarian and a couple older ladies there. Somewhat embarrased, but also amused I reply, "I wouldn't call it a "naughty" movie, just not a movie for young kids to watch."

Verbatim #2
I often remind Brooke to shut the bedroom door when she comes in because I'm getting dressed and don't want anyone to see me. So after coming in our room one day I heard the door open then slam shut followed by,

"Mom, I shut the door! No one wants to see you naked!"

Thanks Brooke! I guess I realized that too, but did you really have to say it out loud...using those words? Let me take a minute while I pick up my ego...

Verbatim # 3
This year I'm excited to be assisting with the Weyauawega-Fremont girls varsity basketball team. A couple weeks ago, there was a team meeting/potluck with the players and parents. It would be my first time meeting the team. Unfortunately, Mike was traveling so he wouldn't be able to attend. That left just Brooke and me. Knowing how antsy a 3 year old can be, I was well prepared taking along things to keep her busy; a sticker book, coloring books, crayons and paper. Brooke was behaving extremely well, keeping busy by drawing and coloring away. I felt pretty proud of my girl and how well I prepared. Well, that is until she decided to tell me quite loudly....

"Mom! Look! I drawed a picture of you! See? You have big 'nursies'!"

I tried to tell her it really isn't necessary to include "nursies" when drawing a picture of Momma. So, she proceed to draw herself....with little "nursies", of course. On the bright side, I don't think many people wwere paying attention and not many of the team member or parents had a arrived yet. Plus I tried to cover it up by saying "What? Oh, yeah, horsey? Yep, those are great "horsies" sweetie...."

Brooke's Art - "Mama"

Brooke's Art Work - "Brooke"

(by the way, I don't think I need to explain, but incase I do...."nursies = breasts")

I'm Thank You For.....

2010-11-27T08:57:00.000-08:00

November 28, 2010 - To end Thanksgiving weekend, I thought I'd inlcude a little video of Brooke saying what she's "Thank-you" for.....

We hope everyone had a great weekend!

Thankful Day 2010

2010-11-25T09:19:00.000-08:00

November 25, 2010 -
Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!
As always we have so much to be thankful for. Although the list is endless, I thought I'd take a shot at listing some of the things that I'm especially thankful for this year...

Thankful List 2010! I'm thankful for:

Top of the list for sure - I'm thankful that I'm a Mom! Hands down, the best title I've ever held. I wear the title with pride!
I wouldn't be called Momma without my little girl, Brooke. Thank you Brooke for the joy you brought to my life. I love you!
The friend I also call husband. I'm proud and thankful for my supportive, helpful, kind, patient and fun husband, Mike!
I'm thankful for kind step kids - Zach & Christa! Also, having a step-grandson Cody!
Having the additional titles of sister, step-sister, sister-in-law, cousin, aunt, niece, daughter-in-law, daughter, step-daughter, grand-daughter, friend, neighbor. I'm very thankful for All my family & Friends - Near, Far and forever in my heart!

Our beautiful house next to great neighbors in a fun neighborhood!

Being a stay-at-home mom! It's been a great adventure so far! We are loving the extra time with Brooke and the slower pace for our family. Best decision we made! (Thanks again Mike for your persistent encouragement!)

The opportunity to coach basketball again! This season I'm assisting with the Weyauwega/Fremont Girl's varsity basketball team! Go Indians!

The Fremont Library (a.k.a Neuschafer Community Library )- Brooke and I go weekly, sometimes 2x per week! Books, movies, story time, rhyme time and more!

Brooke's wonderful preschool and her awesome teacher Mrs Bleck!

Our doggies - Rudy and Jiffi!

Acceptance into the "act!" program. (alternative careers in teaching) - Classes start in January! Yikes!

Swimming on random Tuesdays at the Y with Brooke, Christa & Cody!

Of course our health and being able to include both Zach and Christa on our health insurance in 2011!

The Waupaca Triathlon - the event that motivates me to keep up with working out through the winter months

A great feast at Mark & Mike's house! It's always a ton of fun with great food, family and friends! Can't wait!!!

The "thankful list" is endless....but I'm hungry! Thank you for great food and a holiday called Thanksgiving!!! Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

Go Fish!

2010-11-09T08:43:00.000-08:00

November 9, 2010 - Brooke, our Barbie-playing, dress-wearing, princess-dress-up-dancing little girl has taken a strong interest in fishing lately! Don't know if it's because we've been catching a large number of fish in our channel, the new "Tinker Bell" Fishing pole that her dad bought for her or a combination of both. Whatever the reason, it's a key activity of late! Given the nice November weather we are experiencing, I suggested we go to the park, but she insisted we go fishing in the backyard! Mike couldn't be more proud - a nice change of pace from playing Barbies!

Notice - warm jacket, hood, mittens & FLIP FLOPS! Yes, she LOVES her Flip Flops
We are certain she'll find alternative footwear when it snows!

Set the hook!

One Fish! She insisted on holding it cuz she had on her "fishing mittens"!

One Fish, Two Fish!

CHHEEEEEEESSSSE!

Later Brooke netted a BIG Dog Fish!

...And then it was back to Glass Slipper-wearing, Cinderella-playing FUN!

Halloween Happenings

2010-11-08T09:27:00.000-08:00

This Halloween was a ton of fun!! Brooke insisted on being a MERMAID!

Here's how our BUSY Halloween played out: (click on the images for a closer look)

Thursday - It started with pumpkin carving. We had a special visitor come to help us- Grandpa Lonnie! Thanks for coming to visit and carving pumpkins!

Friday - Trick o treating at daddy's work was a great fun! Thanks K-C for putting on a great event. Brooke recieved lots of Candy and I got to visit with some of my old co-workers.

Fun in Daddy's office!

Work turns to be a bit stressful! Time to head on out!

Saturday - a night at a hotel with cousins Aubrey & Dylan! Thanks Uncle Mark and Uncle Mike for the opportunity! Thanks Joann for giving Mike and I an ENTIRE night to ourselves!

HALLOWEEN Sunday - A party at the Uncles' followed by trick-o-treating in their neighborhood! Thanks Uncle Mike and Uncle Mark for everything! Great food, fun and family!

A Great Halloween 2010!!

Flag on the play - Excessive Celebration!

2010-10-26T16:37:00.000-07:00

October 26, 2010 - Brooke is still celebrating the Packer vs. Viking WIN.....

Go Packers!!

Other Pictures from the weekend are below.

When the camera comes out, Brooke turns into a total goofball!

Smile? Like this? CHEEEESE!

Ahhhh, can't catch me!

Fine! You caught me, but you can't make me look!

Finally! A good picture of our little girl! Packers & Pumpkins! Perfect!

The Christmas photo shoot should be intersting this year! And the adventure continues! :-)

Brooke's FIRST Haircut!

2010-10-25T08:57:00.000-07:00

Oct 25, 2010 - Although it is indeed the end of October, there's one more September activity I want to capture - Brooke's FIRST haircut! Yes, at 3 years, 3 months old she still hadn't experienced a haircut! She was a baldy for the first two years and finally over the last several months her hair started coming in which is good because she reminds us daily that she wants "long hair, just like Momma". But her hair was getting out of control, so we thought a trim and some shaping was in order.

Click on the collages to get a closer look

Overall, Brooke did great and now her hair is in a little better shape to continue growing long, long, long just like she wants it!

Brooke's Many Talents

2010-10-14T07:17:00.000-07:00

Oct 14, 2010 - September has come and gone! It was a great month. Some more of Brooke's many talents were discovered (and/or practiced) during the funfilled month of September!

Professional Kite Flying Observer at the Manitowoc Kite Festival- "Kites Over Lake Michigan" where we observed huge, giant kites. We went a couple years ago and loved it. So we decided to check it out again this year. It was a beautiful day and a lot of fun!

Let me put down my shades to get a closer look....

Another of her talents - Honking Dada's nose!

Kites or Sand Castles? Hmmmm? How 'bout both?!

Running around Momma!

Can't Catch me!!

Caughter Her!!

Butterfly Healer - Brooke loves butterflies! During our daily bike ride down our dead end street, we came across a butterfly laying in the middle of the road - it's wing was pretty shredded, but the butterfly was still moving. Brooke insisted we take her home and help her. I finally agreed thinking once we got home Brooke would eventually be distracted by a new activity giving me a chance to "let it go". Brooke let it walk on her hand for quite sometime and then convinced me to let her bring it inside to "eat lunch". What's the harm? Put it in a little bucket - it could move, just not fly....or at least that's what I thought...Suddenly, to my surprise, the butterfly started flying around the house. I guess the wing wasn't as shredded as it appeared. I finally caught it and "let it go", but not in the way I anticipated. Brooke's magic touch appeared to heal the beautiful butterfly! Although saddened to lose her new friend, Brooke was convinced "she flew away to find her Momma!"

Birthday Cake Baker - Brooke baked a cake for my birthday! We have a cake decorating book that Brooke looks through ALOT! She then decides what type of cake we'll make for each birthday. This year, for Momma's birthday - A Butterfly Cake of course!

Mix...

Taste....

Decorate....

A Masterpiece...well, at least in this Momma's eyes!

Thanks for the birthday cake Brooke! Thanks to Brooke and her Dada for the new Ipod Shuffle -a more convenient way to listen to motivating music during great workouts. And thanks for coming to visit Uncle Mike! Great birthday as always!!

Caught on Camera - I'm not sure if this is really a talent, but apparhently standing on the back of the couch is, great fun!

...well, until you fall off!

I lost count of the number of times I caught her up there telling her to "get down!" I suppose some things kids are bound to to learn (perhaps the word is "experience") on their own! No worries, she was fine, just a little suprised with this new concept of "gravity" Live & Learn!

Well, that's September for ya! A Month of Brooke's talents discovered and practiced!

Hired Help!

2010-10-11T22:03:00.000-07:00

October 11, 2010 - I know! Where have we been? Well, just plain busy doing fun stuff - doing a little bit of everything, well, except, of course, updating the blog...it just seems to find itself on the back burner. But no worries. I "hired" some help! Yep, I found the sweetest lil cleaning lady to help me with some of the chores! Perhaps this will free up some time to share events from September....Yes! I know! It was September the last time I updated on Veith Adventures. Stay tuned.....more to come... eventually......! :-)

Yes! She even does windows!

(click on the picture for a closer look)

Great job vacuuming! Don't forget about the basket of clothes behind you!

Well, as you can see, Brooke loves to "help" clean! She's still in the stage of "I can do it myself". I appreciate the enthusiam although I admit housework now takes quite a bit longer. That's okay - we have the time and it won't be long before getting her to do chores won't be so easy (or fun!).

It's an adventure....I'm enjoying every bit of it!

1st Day of Preschool, Good-bye "KKCC"

2010-09-14T10:11:00.000-07:00

Sept 12, 2010 - No doubt about it, our little girl is getting big....Brooke is officially a Preschooler! Wow! Where has the time gone? Last Thursday (Sept 9) she started preschool at her new school, which she adorably calls her "friends house". I held it together on the way in, but found myself a bit teary eyed when I returned to the car. I didn't actually cry - I did enough crying earlier in the week (see below). I never thought that having the priviledge of being called mom also meant automatically became a life long member of Club Cry! I now have this condition I like to call "SMS" - Sappy Mom Syndrome. There's no cure and one can expect major outbreaks during child's key milestones. Symptoms can be controlled by steering clear of Hallmark & Kleenex-type commercials as well as those cheesy sappy movies that you know you shouldn't sit down to watch, but before you know it, you're curled up on the couch trying to convince your spouse that you're not crying, it's just your allergies.......I digress!

Brooke with her Backpack!

Brooke's first day at preschool went very well. Drop-off was a bit dramatic, but that's pretty typical for Brooke. She usually begs me to stay, but with in minutes of leaving she joins right in with the other kids as if the drop-off drama never occurred. Of course she was all smiles at pick-up time. I was able to sneak in a few minutes early without her seeing me and watch her interact with the teacher and her classmates during interactive storytime. Sooo adorable!

All ready to go!

All smiles after her 1st day!

On a related note - earlier in the week (Sept 7th) we said an "official" tearful good-bye to Brooke's Child Care she's attended since she was three months old. Brooke didn't appear phased at this new change. I however found myself quite emotional. It's crazy, I cried when I first dropped her off back in Sept 2007 and found myself crying (yes actual tears crying the ugly cry!) on her last day too! Thanks a ton Kuddly Kids Child Care for providing such great care over the past 3 years. Fun times and great experiences for sure! We are forever grateful to have experienced such wonderful child care. We will miss you!

Well, there's no fighting it! Brooke is growing up, so I'll do my best to cherish all the fun milestones ahead. Parenthood is definitely an adventure and I'm enjoying every minute of it! Here's to the first of many great school years! Cheers!

Playing Catch Up!

2010-09-08T22:07:00.000-07:00

Sept 8, 2010 - So, I'm finding that being a stay at home mom doesn't necessarily mean weekly blog updates...well, at least not for me.

Anyway, needless to say the later part of July and all of August proved be extemely busy. No worries though, I was finally able to take time to document a couple key summer activities for Veith Record retaining purposes as well as to "entertain" my loyal blog visitors (yes, all 2 of you!). I hope to be more diligent in my future record keeping now that summer is winding down. Time will tell!

Below are the links to some recent posts. Enjoy!

A Trip Up North!
A Week of Golf (swimming & biking too!)
Triathlon Mom Tri's Again!