Sunrises, Sunsets, and Moonbeams

Green Bay Packers First Day of Training Camp

2011-07-30T23:18:00.001-05:00

Lake Michigan in the Fall

2010-10-02T22:50:00.001-05:00

West Bend, Wisconsin

2010-10-02T17:27:00.001-05:00

Fall pictures from West Bend, Wisconsin
October 2, 2010

Wisconsin Family

2010-10-02T15:32:00.000-05:00

In Random Lake, Wisconsin with my cousins Joan, Ron, and Judy.
October 2, 2010

Everest College Family Night

2010-10-01T22:33:00.000-05:00

Scott's admission department.

Andy sitting in Scott's office chair.

Scotlyn, with her purse, standing outside Scott's office.

Fall

2010-10-01T09:23:00.001-05:00

Some beautiful Wisconsin fall views from our deck.

Happy Birthday Scott!!!!

2010-09-30T22:43:00.000-05:00

Today we celebrated Scott's birthday. The kiddos decorated the sunroom with streamers, balloons, a birthday banner, and a "Star Wars" birthday cake. We went out to dinner at "The Mineshack" to celebrate.

The First Day of Fall

2010-09-23T22:42:00.001-05:00

"Orange Day"

2010-09-10T14:40:00.000-05:00

Braden's class studied the color orange today. They were asked to wear that color today. He really enjoyed coloring a picture of a basketball.

"Brown and Purple Day"

2010-09-09T17:27:00.001-05:00

Braden's class studied the colors brown and purple today. They were asked to wear one or both of those colors. He enjoyed making the grape page in the picture.

"Blue Day"

2010-09-08T22:00:00.002-05:00

Today was "Blue Day" in Braden's class. They were asked to wear blue and made "bluebirds" out of their handprints traced on blue construction paper.

Clowns

2010-09-08T10:30:00.002-05:00

Scotlyn joined the "Teddy Bear Club" at the community library. The "members" or kids listen to books being read aloud, watch puppet shows, and make a craft each week.

Scotlyn with her first craft project.

Scotlyn's first Teddy Bear craft project was a clown for a Clown Theme. We had great teamwork...I cut, she glued!

Private Lessons

2010-09-07T22:00:00.000-05:00

Andy has switched band instruments this year which is going to require him to take private lessons. His band teacher didn't give him a choice as to what he could play last year and he really hated it. He is playing the alto saxophone now and tonight was his first lesson. He was so excited after the lesson!!!

Happy Anniversary!

2010-09-02T22:15:00.000-05:00

Today Scott and I celebrated our 21st wedding anniversary.

Back to School

2010-09-01T22:00:00.001-05:00

Andy at home in the sunroom before leaving for school.

Andy at home in the sunroom before leaving for school.

Braden at home in the sunroom before leaving for school.

Braden at home in the sunroom before leaving for school.

Braden in the van in the school parking lot...still smiling!

Braden in the hallway.

Braden in the class line.

In line and waiting for the teacher.

The teacher arrives!

In the Kindergarten line listening to the teacher greet the class.

Scotlyn missing her brothers...a stop at the store helped.

Sign on the door for Andy

Sign on the door for Braden

Back to School Celebration

Back to School Cake

Back to School Cupcakes

Picking Grapes

2010-08-11T22:30:00.000-05:00

The grapevines at our house.

Andy, Braden, and Scotlyn picking grapes.

Braden and Scotlyn picking grapes.

Just a Swinging!

2010-08-11T22:00:00.000-05:00

Braden swinging

Scotlyn swinging

Port Fish Day

2010-07-27T10:39:00.007-05:00

Port Fish Day Car Show

Harley Shopping

2010-07-25T22:00:00.000-05:00

Today we went Harley shopping (merchandise that is) at the Harley Davidson Museum and Shop in downtown Milwaukee which happens to be the home of the Harley!

Historic Waukesha Riverwalk

2010-07-18T22:00:00.000-05:00

Our family went on an early evening stroll at the Historic Riverwalk in Waukesha, Wisconsin. It was absolutely beautiful with the sun setting over it.

The Historic Riverwalk in Waukesha.

The riverwalk in the evening.

The riverwalk.

The sun setting over the river.

Another picture of the sun setting over the river.

A dragonfly statue in the middle of the river.

A closeup of the dragon fly statue in the river.

The kiddos at the riverwalk. Braden and Scotlyn would not cooperate!

Andy at the riverwalk.

Academic Awards Ceremony

2010-05-25T22:00:00.001-05:00

Tonight was the 25th Annual Academic Awards Presentation Ceremony at Andy's school. Andy earned is "Academic Letter" along with 152 other junior high students. This means that those 153 6th-8th grade students had a 3.7 or higher GPA, made their AR goals all year, and never got in trouble once during the school year.

Spring Concert

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

We attended Andy's Spring Concert tonight. He (and the rest of the band) did an awesome job!

Mother's Day

2010-05-09T22:00:00.001-05:00

My family gave me a wonderful Mother's Day! The kiddos slept in late, I had breakfast in bed, was given cards and flowers for my flower garden and deck, and I was taken out to lunch at one of my favorite restaurants. The kiddos baked and decorated a Mother's Day cake for me.

Band Fundraiser

2010-04-30T22:00:00.000-05:00

Tonight Andy had to "work" the band fundraiser. It was the band's "20th Annual Garage Sale". The different bands were scheduled to play at different times and band members helped customers carry merchandise to their cars. The garage sale brought in $13,700.

Happy Birthday Dad

2010-04-03T11:30:00.000-05:00

Missing my dad on his birthday...

Favorite Inspirational Sights & Sounds

2010-03-27T23:54:00.001-05:00

These are must see videos! Be sure to pause our playlist at the bottom of our blog before you watch them.

"Go down to the potter's house, and there I will give you my message" So I went down to the potter's house, and I saw him working at the wheel. But the pot he was shaping from the clay was marred in his hands; so the potter formed it into another pot, shaping it as seemed best to him...Like clay in the hand of the potter, so are you in my hand..." ~Jeremiah 18:2-6

B-I-N-G-O

2010-02-27T21:00:00.000-06:00

Andy and I went to a fundraising event at his school. The PTSO had a Community Bingo Night. You paid $5.00 at the door and were able to play for 3 hours. They gave away door prizes every 30 minutes. They also were selling raffle tickets for a flat screen tv, $200 spa treatment, motorized scooter, 2 ipods, prepaid cell phone, and several other things I can't remember.

Merry Christmas Dad

2009-12-25T07:00:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas Dad.....

The Christmas Eve Blizzard

2009-12-24T22:00:00.000-06:00

Here it is Christmas Eve and we're in the middle of a blizzard. Hope Santa can find his way!

Andy's Holiday Photos

2009-12-22T22:26:00.000-06:00

Here are various holiday photos of Andy.

Braden's Holiday Photos

2009-12-22T22:24:00.000-06:00

Here are various holiday photos of Braden.

Scotlyn's Holiday Photos

2009-12-22T22:21:00.001-06:00

Here are various holiday photos of Scotlyn.

Santa Pictures

2009-12-22T22:18:00.000-06:00

The kids went to Bass Pro for their annual visit with Santa.

Andy's Winter Formal

2009-12-18T22:00:00.001-06:00

Tonight was Andy's "Winter Formal" at his school.

Andy before going to the "Winter Formal".

Andy with his girlfriend, Kelsey, at the "Winter Formal".

The Plaza Lights

2009-12-05T22:00:00.000-06:00

We took a drive over to Missouri tonight to check out the Kansas City Plaza Lights. The kids really enjoyed them and it's starting to get them excited about the Christmas season.

Andy's First Day of School

2009-08-19T07:00:00.000-05:00

Summer Fun

2009-08-18T20:00:00.001-05:00

Here are various pictures from our summer.

Braden trying on his sister's sunglasses.

Last Night With My "Chosen Few" Girls

2009-06-25T20:52:00.000-05:00

Tonight I met some of my "Chosen Few" girls for a last get together before moving. It was great to see them one last time. They surprised me with going away cards and gifts. I will really miss living so close to them and being able to get together with them each month.

Packing Day

2009-06-24T11:22:00.000-05:00

The movers arrived today to pack us up for our move to Kansas.

Andy's 11th Birthday

2009-06-10T13:14:00.001-05:00

Andy celebrated his 11th birthday today. Andy decided he wanted to eat at a local Chinese restaurant and then go to DQ for a new Brownie Batter Blizzard. Later, Andy opened his presents...his own cell phone, professional binoculars, a mega water gun, inflatable gladiator sticks, and water balloons...and celebrated with streamers, balloons, and a chocolate birthday cake. We will celebrate again when Scott comes in from Kansas this weekend.

"Chosen Few" Night Out

2009-05-30T19:21:00.002-05:00

I had the opportunity to go out with my "chosen ones girls" group of friends tonight. We went to the Springfield Brewing Company for dinner and sat around talking (laughing) for several hours. I will miss these friends...hopefully they can rode trip up my way and I can head back to southwest MO for some more girls nights out. Thanks Linda, Jen, Tabby, Juli, Andrea, Missy, Sharon, Becky, Kristine, Angie, and Lorie for the different times this past year we were able to get together for dinner and fun.

The Week at Grandma & Grandpa's House

2009-05-29T13:08:00.000-05:00

Andy, Braden, Scotlyn, and I headed up to Brookfield, MO on Monday, May 25th to spend the week with my parents. We enjoyed visiting family and were also able to play in Brookfield's parks several times, play badminton, and tour the Walt Disney Museum and Wishing Tree in Marceline, MO.

Mother's Day in Kansas City

2009-05-10T03:55:00.001-05:00

Early Saturday we picked Andy up from his friend Jacob's house and headed off to Kansas City. We drove around and looked for places to live. We found several nice, small towns we would love to move to that are near Kansas City.

We spent the night in Scott's hotel room...home sweet away from home...and the kids really enjoyed it.

Today is Mother's Day.

Andy Celebrates A Friend's Birthday

2009-05-09T17:54:00.000-05:00

Andy was invited to his friend Jacob W's birthday party which included spending the night. Happy Birthday, Jacob!

Breakfast With Mom

2009-05-08T15:51:00.000-05:00

Today Braden's preschool celebrated Mother's Day by having "Breakfast with Mom". I was able to quickly eat a few donuts with Braden. I wish I could have stayed longer, but extremely bad storms were moving into southwest Missouri and I knew I needed to leave for the drive to work. Unfortunately, our town was hit by an F2 tornado.

Dixie Stampede Field Trip

2009-05-07T15:49:00.000-05:00

The fifth grade classes at Andy's school went on their big field trip to Dixie Stampede in Branson today. He loved it!!!

Andy's Curriculum Night

2009-05-05T21:00:00.000-05:00

Tonight was Curriculum Night at Andy's school. Braden, Scotlyn, and I enjoyed seeing Andy's work on display in the hallway. We also attended the school's book fair where Braden wanted to buy every book he saw.

Library Day for Braden

2009-05-05T11:48:00.000-05:00

Today Braden's preschool had "Library Day". The local county library came to the preschool and read books and talked about a library.

Scotlyn's Surgery

2009-04-13T15:43:00.001-05:00

In February we discovered that Scotlyn had fluid in her ears and had 20% hearing. Today she had minor surgery to put tubes in her ears. Hopefully this will help improve her speech and help her balance better when she walks.

Easter Bunny Fun...????

2009-04-04T11:00:00.000-05:00

The kids had the chance to have their picture taken with the Easter Bunny.

Just A Walking!

2009-02-27T19:12:00.000-06:00

Scotlyn is officially a walker today!

Braden Starts Preschool!

2009-02-24T19:08:00.000-06:00

Today Braden started preschool!

Braden's Drawing

2009-02-05T15:42:00.003-06:00

This is Braden's drawing of a snowman.

~February 2, 2009~

Native American Artifact Museum

2009-01-15T23:42:00.000-06:00

This year I had my students make Native American artifacts to wrap up our unit. The projects went on display in our "5th Grade Native American Artifact Museum". We invited parents and other classroom to tour our museum. The kids did a wonderful job.

The Museum Welcome Sign

Artifacts in the Desert Southwest Section of the Museum

Artifacts in the Great Plains Section of the Museum

Artifacts from the Woodlands Section of the Museum

Grandma's Christmas Cookies

2009-01-01T10:43:00.009-06:00

Scotlyn had her first taste of Grandma's Christmas cookies...the best Christmas cookies in the world!!!

January 1, 2009

Brookfield, MO

Scotlyn reaching for a cookie.

"Yummy!!! I love this cookie!!!"

"Hey, that's my cookie...this is my chair! Gee, brothers can be annoying at times!"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Grandma's Christmas Cookies Recipe

(The Best in the World)

Ingredients for Cookies

1/2 cup margarine
1 cup sugar
1 1/2 cups flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 egg
1 tablespoon milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla

Directions for Making Cookies

Mix Ingredients
Chill dough in refrigerator
Roll dough out on floured area
Cut with cookie cutters
Bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes or so
Let cookies cool
Put icing and sprinkles on

Ingredients for Icing

1 cup powder sugar
1 tablespoon margarine
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
2 teaspoons milk

Directions for Making Icing

Soften margarine by heating in pan on the stove burner
Add sugar, vanilla, and milk
Heat until it's consistency is that of frosting

The Lester Family Christmas Extravaganza

2008-12-24T12:04:00.002-06:00

The 1st Annual

"Lester Family Christmas Extravaganza"

Another new tradition we added to our Christmas this year was "The Lester Family Christmas Extravaganza". The kids sang songs and danced during a Christmas show for Scott and I. Next year Scotlyn will add her own routine to the show and hopefully Scott and I will come up with a little skit to perform for the kids. It's a wonderful idea that is memorable (and humorous). More importantly it's something we can all do together and it's practically free. I hope it's something we continue far into the future with daughter-in-laws, son-in-law, and grandchildren.

Andy performing his song and dance routine for the show

Andy and Braden (look closely) performing in the show.

Braden doing his dance routine in the show.

Christmas Down on the Farm~2nd Santa Pictures

2008-12-21T18:15:00.008-06:00

We attended the Rutledge-Wilson Farm's "Christmas Down on the Farm" event on Sunday, December 21st. The kids were able to get their pictures taken with Santa. You should have seen Santa's outfit. It was so beautiful! If you look closely you can see the Nativity scene on the lining.

Scotlyn's First Haircut

2008-12-20T18:20:00.006-06:00

Scotlyn had her first haircut today...just a bang cut. She did not like it as you will see.

Before

The saddest face you'll ever see!

Snip, Snip!

It's over!
After

Extra Christmas Break

2008-12-19T18:20:00.000-06:00

Due to the snow & ice, I was able to have almost another whole week off to make my Christmas break almost 3 weeks long! I did have to go back on Friday, December 19th. Gee, for one day!!! My class made origami snowflakes and watched a movie. Pretty rough day, don't you think?

Andy's Christmas Program

2008-12-09T21:59:00.001-06:00

Tonight was Andy's Christmas program. This was probably my favorite program out of all he's ever had. The kids sang five Christmas songs making every student have equal parts, the kids were dressed in Sunday best clothes, and they did a little dancing while on the risers.

Winter decided to make itself known during the program. The sound of sleet could be heard hitting the rooftop of the auditorium. The sound added a special touch to the program and gave it more meaning.

Welcome winter!!!!

St. Nicholas Eve

2008-12-05T21:47:00.002-06:00

Tonight is St. Nicholas Eve.

St. Nicholas was the patron Saint of children. Many years ago I wanted to find a way to honor my German heritage at Christmas since there are so many wonderful German Christmas customs. That's when I discovered Saint Nicholas Eve and Saint Nicholas Day. Our family adopted the tradition and it is enjoyed so much by the kids. Several years ago, I talked to my mom about Saint Nicholas Eve. She knew exactly what it was and told me she remembered it from when she was a little girl. Tomorrow we honor the generosity and kindness of Saint Nicholas.

Andy, Braden, and Scotlyn are fast asleep, but have left their shoes out on the porch with their Santa letters. Santa will come for a short visit during the night to get their letters and leave a special sweet treat.

The Christmas Tree Skirt

2008-12-01T13:29:00.001-06:00

Any of you that know me well, know that I'm into starting family traditions. Several years back, I read about a way to make a family Christmas tree skirt. You buy a cloth table cover, dip your childrens' hands in seasonal fabric paint and press their hand prints on the table cover. Below the hand prints you add the year with the fabric paint.

We started this tradition back in 2004 and of course it was just Andy's hand prints that year. Then in 2005 and 2006, it was Andy's and Braden's. Our family grew again by "two feet" in 2007 and it was Andy's, Braden's, and Scotlyn's hand prints.

This year when we added the hand prints, we noticed that we've almost made our way around the first row of the skirt. Soon we'll be on the second row. The skirt will probably only allow three rows, then I guess we'll go to thumb prints on the ruffle.

Our Christmas tree skirt is very special and the kids anticipate adding their hand prints each year. Last year the skirt was "accidentally" vacuumed up by Scott and torn. Never fear though...Grandma to the rescue!!! We are so fortunate Grandma could fix it. The vacuum cleaner "scar" has added character to the skirt and so much more.

So along with the memories of adding the hand prints each year, the memories of Christmas pasts, we have the story about the year dad vacuumed it and tore it. We have the story of how Grandma was able to sew it back together. We have our appreciation and love for Grandma. We have the memory of how Grandma added her own special touch to our Christmas tree skirt.

Thank you mom.

Santa Pictures Take 1

2008-11-29T13:25:00.000-06:00

Santa Pictures-Take 1

November 29, 2008

Scotlyn's 1st Birthday

2008-11-09T19:17:00.003-06:00

"Happy birthday to you,

Happy birthday to you,

Happy Birthday dear Scotlyn,

Happy birthday to you!"

Waiting for the birthday girl

Scotlyn in front of her cake. She doesn't seem real happy.

She really is not happy!

She's not getting any happier!

"It's my party and I'll cry if I want to!!!"

She completely does not like this birthday cake deal!

Okay, so let's put a hat on her. That might make her happy....nope!

I think she's calming down.

Scotlyn with Andy and Braden. She finally tried her cake.

Andy and Braden helping Scotlyn eat her cake. Is that a smile?

Andy helping open a present.

Scotlyn looking at her boots.

Andy and Braden helping Scotlyn with her toys.

Andy watching Scotlyn look at his gift to her.

Election Day

2008-11-04T12:42:00.004-06:00

"Election Day 2008"

Today is election day. The day that our founding fathers created so that each citizen's voice could be heard. I've been intensely teaching my social studies classes about the constitution and the voting process. Every September I require my students to learn and recite the preamble by memory. I love it when this project is assigned because it involves having them go around to 75 different people and recite the preamble by memory. The person that listened to the student recite the preamble then signs their name to a paper. You'll see fifth graders all over the school asking different teachers, administrators, and even the superintendent to listen to them recite the preamble. I've heard through the "grapevine" (aka parents) that the papers have been brought to church and students have recited the preamble during a special time during the service. I've also really focused on teaching the electoral college. I think my students have a clue about the electoral college process which is wonderful since most adults don't understand it!

I got up an hour earlier today so that I could leave and get to our voting poll by 6 a.m. I stood in a line that went out the doors and around the building. It was freezing cold at 6 a.m., but the pride in my country I felt during that 40 minute wait was overwhelming. I loved hearing the various conversations around me...all political. People were pumped about this election. People realized the historical importance of this particular election. People knew that their vote did indeed make a difference.

No, the presidential candidate I voted for did not win. Am I disappointed? Yes, of course. I have my concerns about our country. I realize, though, that my vote made a difference because it allowed my voice to be heard. I was helping the legacy our founding fathers created for this country continue.

I am thankful to live in a democracy.

I am thankful and proud to be an American.

The Cats

2008-11-03T20:38:00.001-06:00

Our "1st Children"

Whiskers-17 years old

Gremlin-15 years old

Lessons Learned from a Halloween Party

2008-11-01T21:00:00.003-05:00

Tonight Andy had his annual Halloween party. Several years ago this started out as a party for the neighborhood kids. We usually had 4-5 kids of various ages come over in their costumes to play games such as Boo Bingo, Carry the Ghosts, Bone Hunt, Cupcake Walk, Balloon Bounce, Ghosts in the Middle, Pumpkin Toss, Candybar Walk, and Break the Pinata. We would serve mummy dogs, graveyard pudding, and ghoulish punch and give out finger popcorn bags, cupcakes, and candy. The kids would also take home treat bags filled with Halloween pencils, spider rings, and toy snakes. It was a nice way for the kids to have fun around Halloween time.

Last year the party branched out from the neighborhood and included a few friends from Andy's classroom. We had a total of 6 kids and it was a really good party. It ended with a bonfire and roasting marshmallows.

Now let's talk about this year's party....imagine having 8 fifth grade boys and some neighborhood kids come to the party that for some insane reason included spending the night!!!! The party started out with them playing in the back yard and then playing several Halloween games while Scott grilled some hot dogs. Next we had a fight break out between two boys because one boy broke another boy's costume sword! Of course Scott gave his "fatherly be good and get along or I'll call your parents to come get you" talk. Everyone calmed down and the boys were able to play Night Tag before the bonfire and we started roasting marshmallows. Afterwards, the boys came in to watch movies, eat popcorn, and play with Legos.

Yes, we have learned several lessons from this year's Halloween party. Here are the two big lessons learned....
1. Only invite a few kids to the party. (Two sounds good!!!!!)
2. Sleepovers should not be an option!!!!

Will Andy have another Halloween party? That depends on our level of insanity next October.

Halloween

2008-10-31T08:51:00.002-05:00

Our alien, fireman, and bunny on October 31, 2008.

The alien grabs the fireman!

The alien carrying the fireman off to the spaceship!

Our little bunny.

Our alien.

Our fireman.

Our bunny.

Our bunny trick-or treating.

Our bunny trick-or-treating.

Our alien and fireman trick-or-treating.

October 31, 2008

Today was Halloween and it brought our annual tradition of participating in our town's trick-or-treating event. Over 50 businesses keep their doors open for the kids to come in with their costumes on and trick-or-treat. It's a safe, but fun way for our kids to enjoy Halloween. We are very fortunate to have our town do this and are so appreciative. We also go around two neighborhoods where some of our friends live and we know it will also be safe.

The Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-25T00:50:00.001-05:00

Today we went to the Rutledge-Wilson Farm's Pumpkin Patch. This was Scotlyn's first time in a pumpkin patch and it's a family tradition to take pictures of this occasion. Andy and Braden enjoyed walking through the pumpkin patch, climbing on the tractors and hay bales, and visiting the animals.

Fall...in Braden's Words

2008-10-25T00:06:00.003-05:00

We were driving around town and Braden was noticing how the trees are really starting to change colors. Our town has an array of trees with red, orange, yellow, and purple. Braden was naming the colors of the leaves when in his infinite wisdom he says, "I think God painted the tree leaves."

How can you argue with a three-year-olds' logic?

Searching for "Black Gold" Again!

2008-10-18T17:00:00.000-05:00

We spent our afternoon searching for our families' "black gold" again. Our black gold comes in the form of black walnuts and helps bring in a little spending money for Andy and Braden. Today we went to the ranch of one of our friends. There were soooooo many black walnuts! We spent about 3 hours picking them up before getting tired and leaving. Our afternoon adventure brought in $18.00 for the boys.

Congrats Jessica and Chuck!!!

2008-10-18T00:19:00.005-05:00

Congratulations to my niece Jessica!!! These are pictures from her early October wedding in Jamaica. Chuck's a great guy and we're glad he's joined our family!

Our "Black Gold"

2008-10-11T23:04:00.007-05:00

Our family decided to try a new project this year. It started with Andy wanting to earn a little spending money. Then Braden joined in wanting to earn money so he could buy a new football. The boys enlisted Scott, and finally I decided to come on board.

There are many black walnut trees in and around our town. Every autumn the black walnuts fall to the ground often becoming every squirrel's dream come true. Unfortunately, the squirrels are often left watching humans pick up all the black walnuts, load them in vehicles, and drive away with one of their winter food sources.

Andy watched a news broadcast and saw that there are several black walnut hulling stations nearby. He started going around the neighborhood collecting black walnuts from the yards of those that gave him permission to pick them up. We allowed Braden to go to a yard a few houses down to pick up the black walnuts there and put them in his own black walnut bucket.

Andy and Braden collected about four huge trash bags full of black walnuts. They asked Scott to help. This expanded the search for black walnuts down nearby country roads. Suddenly we had about 8 huge trash bags full. I helped collect an additional 2 huge trash bags full for a grand total of 10 huge trash bags full of black walnuts.

We loaded up our old van and took them to the nearby hulling station. After the black walnuts were taken out of the core, we had over 250 pounds of black walnuts. Our "black gold" was worth $36.00.

Now I know $36.00 does not seem like a lot for 10 huge trash bags full. One must remember that the core is taken off and only the black walnuts are weighed. The going rate right now is $13.00 per 100 pounds.

More importantly our family had fun being together in the nice autumn weather. We talked, laughed, and became expert black walnut tree spotters. Even Braden can spot a black walnut tree now.

Black walnuts...$36.00.
The memories of collecting those black walnuts and our family time together...priceless.

I've Been Tagged!

2008-10-10T01:26:00.002-05:00

So I check out my friend Alvina's blog several weeks ago to find I've been tagged.

The rules; Link to the person who tagged you, mention the rules, tell six quirky, yet boring and unspectacular things about yourself, tag six or more others.

So here we go.........

Six Random Things About Me

1. I love to watch "Gene Simmons' Family Jewels".

2. If I could do anything else, I would be a wedding planner. Meteorologist is also a possibility. (I love weather...it fascinates me!)

3. I have never been to a concert or a professional football game. I've only been to a professional baseball game twice in my life. (St. Louis Cardinals....both games before the age of 10)

4. I turned down a music (band) scholarship to Central Methodist College.

5. My big retirement dream is to volunteer with the American Red Cross in their Disaster Relief division.

6. I hate roses!!!! I don't ever want Scott getting me roses. I think roses are extremely ugly, smell like a funeral home, and are man's easy way out of a gift. (All they have to do is pull up to a flower shop or order over the phone...not much effort is required.) And again, I really do not think roses are pretty and their smell...ugh!!! I, instead, would rather have a bouquet of wild flowers hand picked from a field. This actually requires the man to physically get the flowers. I, especially, love sunflowers. I think sunflowers are so bright, alive, positive, cheery, and happy.

I tag Sheila, Amy, Lindsey, Casey, Valerie, Heather, Tria, Michella, Mitzi, and Julie.

You can post your answers on your blog if you have one or just put your answers in my blog by commenting them below.

P.S. Alvina, thanks for tagging me....NOT!!!

Andy's Artwork

2008-10-09T00:57:00.008-05:00

A big thumbs-up to Andy on his art class project.

October Thankful Tuesday

2008-10-07T02:57:00.004-05:00

"Thankful Tuesday"

I am so very thankful for my son Andy. He is "my special baby". Andy is a very smart, funny, loving, good-hearted boy. When the major ice storm hit two years ago, Andy helped several neighbors pick up limbs from their yard. He also volunteered to pick up limbs from his school's playground.

Andy is a great big brother. Braden loves him so much and follows almost every move that Andy makes. Scotlyn also loves her big brother a lot. This is very evident since Andy was the first real word she said.

Scott and I recently celebrated our 19th wedding anniversary. Andy got up in the middle of the night to put streamers all over the house, make posters, and blow up balloons so that when we woke up early September 2nd we would be surprised with anniversary decorations. He did not complain at all about how tired he was during the day or evening and I'm sure he was up at least an hour putting up the decorations.

As I said, Andy is "my special baby".

I'm very thankful to have such a great child.

October Memory Monday

2008-10-06T00:21:00.006-05:00

"Memory Monday"

Remembering when Scott and I were dating...

Scott and I in May, 1987

Pumpkin Daze

2008-10-04T22:10:00.001-05:00

Our town had its annual Pumpkin Daze Festival. The old time Main Street is closed down and display booths are set up to sell crafts and food. Pumpkins, sunflowers, watermelons, and other vegetables are brought from around the country to win the largest or heaviest title. The winning pumpkin weighed over 1400 pounds!!!!! (Yes, that is 1400 pounds that I put!!!)

Andy and Braden enjoyed all the freebie booths...fire department, police department, local town church booths. It is really hard to walk down the street with the smell of bratwurst, kettle corn, pig-on-a stick, and all the other wonderful aromas!!!!

Autumn Harvest Carnival

2008-10-02T21:08:00.005-05:00

Andy, Braden, Scotlyn, and I attended the local school district's annual Autumn Harvest Carnival. The boys were able to shoot basketballs, play bingo, go to the duck pond, bowl, participate in a sack race and candy bar walk, and have their picture taken with some high school cheerleaders. The boys were also able to get our first pumpkins at the carnival.

Scott's 43rd Birthday

2008-09-30T18:52:00.000-05:00

Scott's employees surprised him by giving him a gift card to Cheddars Restaurant. Our family enjoyed celebrating Scott's birthday by eating dinner there.

Camping Out

2008-09-19T20:51:00.001-05:00

Andy went to a neighborhood camp out. This event included eating hot dogs and roasting marshmallows. It was a great night to sleep outdoors...the temperature was perfect!

Celebrating A Friend's Birthday

2008-09-13T20:48:00.000-05:00

Andy helped celebrate a friend's birthday by attending a "bunking" over birthday party. Happy Birthday Tyler!!!

September Sharing Sunday

2008-09-07T20:03:00.011-05:00

"SHARING SUNDAY"

Sharing scripture...

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." - Jeremiah 29:11

September Sound Off Saturday

2008-09-06T20:01:00.018-05:00

"Sound Off Saturday"

~Expressing Personal Thoughts and Opinions~

Today's Sound Off

The 2008 Presidential Election

I call myself an independent.

Here's how I basically pick my candidates. (I know...I know...it's a really "stupid" way of selecting a candidate, but it works for me.) I layout a paper with each candidates views, highlight the ones I agree with, and the candidate that has been highlighted most by me generally gets my vote.

Both the Democratic and Republican National Conventions are now over. Our family watched both conventions and I am now leaning towards one candidate. I will have to wait until the end of October, though, to do my highlighting and final decision. Here are my thoughts after watching both conventions and the days following. . .Yes, you will figure out who I'm starting to lean towards.

1. Obama has said a change is needed and electing a Republican candidate won't bring change. That's funny since we've had a Democratic congress and not a Republican congress. It is congress that makes our policies.

2. Why is it the media wants to be negative about the Republican Vice-President candidate's daughter with the "pregnancy scandal", but it's not a big deal when so many unwed actresses are having babies....hello Jamie Lynn Spears.

3. Why does the media go on and on about the Republican Vice-President candidate (and it's all negative) while not much was mentioned about the Democratic Vice-President candidate after he was selected?

September Family and Friends Friday

2008-09-05T19:57:00.018-05:00

"Family and Friends Friday"

My parents in December, 2006.

My dad was diagnosed with cancer 6 months later.

Grandparents' Day at Andy's School

2008-09-05T16:52:00.002-05:00

Today I went to Andy's school for Grandparents' Day. Scott's dad passed away 31 years ago and his mom passed away 8 years ago. My dad was diagnosed with cancer 15 months ago and so my parents aren't able to travel for this school event. I took 1/2 personal day and am so glad I did. Andy showed me all around his school and playground. We also had our picture taken by a photographer at the school.

September Thumbs-Up Thursday

2008-09-04T19:54:00.010-05:00

"Thumbs-Up Thursday"

A big thumbs up to Andy for all the awesome grades he's been getting on his spelling tests!!! We're very proud of you!!!!!

September Wordless Wednesday

2008-09-03T00:01:00.009-05:00

"Wordless Wednesday"

September Thankful Tuesday

2008-09-02T18:44:00.011-05:00

"Thankful Tuesday"

Today is my 19th wedding anniversary. I feel that in my first "Thankful Tuesday" post I need to tell how thankful I am that I met Scott twenty-one years ago. My husband Scott is a truly wonderful person. Scott is smart, funny, supportive, caring, and loving. He treats me like the princess I am not. I'm not really sure how he puts up with my "moods", but he does. Scott loves being home with his kids and is a wonderful father. I don't think he knows how much I appreciate him and all that he does for our family. I am very thankful to have Scott in my life. Happy 19th Scott! I love you.

September Memory Monday

2008-09-01T03:44:00.009-05:00

"Memory Monday"

Remembering my wedding day...

Tomorrow is my 19th wedding anniversary! My first "Memory Monday" is in honor of this special occasion.

Scott and I

September 2, 1989

The candle lighters/junior bridesmaids.

Nieces Amy and Casey

The flower girls coming in.

Nieces Jessica and Lindsey

Our candlelight ceremony

~Scott and I~

The flower girls and ring bearer

My nieces Jessica and Lindsey & nephew Ben.

Me in my wedding dress...oh how I wish I was this thin now!

The groomsmen; friends Brian and Jeff, (Scott), friends Damon and Tom

My attendants; friends Wanda and Beth, (me), nieces Amy and Casey

My high school best friends Alvina and Beth standing with me.

Our Wedding Cake

We went to Galveston for our honeymoon. I don't think it's quite the same place after all the recent hurricanes!

Labor Day Weekend

2008-09-01T02:02:00.002-05:00

We joined the Broz family for the Springfield Labor Day Parade. Here's some photos...everyone loves a parade!

Andy and me waiting for the parade to start.

Andy and Braden picking up candy.

Scotlyn watching the parade...and holding her bottle with her feet!

Andy and Braden picking up candy.

Scotlyn watching the parade.

Kevin and Scott talking politics.

Fifth Grade, Here He Comes!

2008-08-20T19:31:00.001-05:00

Today was the first day of school. My little baby Andy is a fifth grader!! How sad that makes me.

Andy Meets His Teacher

2008-08-19T22:32:00.001-05:00

Andy had his "Meet the Teacher" orientation tonight. He goes to a different building this year so we were sure to check out the entire school. When you enter the school there are train tracks near the ceiling that run through the hallway and library with a toy train on them. The train was really running and it was pretty neat. The library also had an old truck bed in it decorated with pillows for a reading area and a real garden fountain in a corner.

Andy's homeroom teacher was very impressive. He loves social studies & American history so he ranks pretty high in my book.

The unbelievable part is that there are a total of 15 fifth grade classes with each having about 24 students in them.

Our Local Fair

2008-08-15T22:27:00.002-05:00

Andy and Scott went to our town's fair. It always is held right around when school is starting. Andy loves the rides at this fair. I'm not sure if he's serious or trying to worry me, but Andy usually has some story about how he almost fell off a ride.

Journey to the Center of the Earth

2008-08-08T17:30:00.003-05:00

Andy and I spent the last day of my summer vacation going to see the movie, "Journey to the Center of the Earth." We both loved the movie and it was fun having a special day together.

Ozark Empire Fair

2008-08-02T22:24:00.001-05:00

Andy, Braden, and Scott attended the Ozark Empire Fair. Braden loved the games, but still isn't ready for the rides. His favorite was the fishing game. Of course, Andy loved the games and rides.

Andy's 9th Baseball Game

2008-07-21T21:43:00.000-05:00

Andy's "Warriors" team played their 9th game. It was so hot outside!!!!!! The team did great. Unfortunately, the Warriors lost 8-4. Andy did a great job playing outfield!!!

Andy's 8th Baseball Game

2008-07-18T14:34:00.000-05:00

Andy missed his 8th baseball game so that he could help get ready to go to Grandma & Grandpa's house.

Braden's Last Tot Ball Game

2008-07-14T22:26:00.003-05:00

Braden played his last Tot Ball game and he did wonderful!!!! Again, he hit the ball great, ran to all the bases, and didn't play in the dirt. He was especially excited that it was his snack night.

After the game, each team member was given a medal and a trophy. Braden is very proud to be displaying his trophy next to Andy's trophies.

We'll post pictures later so be sure to check back.

Andy's 7th Baseball Game

2008-07-11T21:47:00.001-05:00

Andy's "Warrior" team played tonight. Andy made a run. Unfortunately, the Warriors lost 10-3. Andy did a great job, though, and we are very proud of him.