and now the future President of the United States....

John McCain!!
Wednesday evening my mom and I had the opportunity to go the Sandusky Republican headquarters and prepare for John McCain's visit on Thursday. We helped make a bunch of signs for the event. Because of security, the signs have to be made in advance and checked over in the morning.
Thursday morning I dropped the kids off at a friends house and picked up two of our youth and my mom. We got to Sandusky about 11 am. The park was already being secured with police, dogs, and Secret Service. Since we were volunteers we got to go through a different checkpoint with a local high school's marching band. Marianna, Trevor, mom, and I directed the foot traffic to the main entrance.
Once inside the volunteer section by the gazebo where John McCain would be speaking a local reporter from our home town paper noticed Trevor and Marianna. He said, "TV tells us that all young people are for Obama. You guys can't be McCain supporters." All four of us gave him a weird look and Marianna and Trevor said yes they were for McCain. He asked why and Marianna told him the McCain supports life and that's the big reason. He asked us several more questions and I must say we gave him an ear full. We did make the front page of Friday's paper. His write up was more social event than new report, and I was misquoted. Argh.
John McCain was running late, which is not surprising, but Joe the Plumber did arrive shortly before the Straight Talk Express. I must say John McCain is shorter than I expected. But a great man. His wife is beautiful too. They shook some hands, recognized some of the people with them, and Sen. McCain had Joe the Plumber say a few words too. Sen. McCain's speech was short and then he went into the local school that was behind the park.
We didn't get to shake his hand or get close to him however, we did get some really great pictures. Unfortunately, I haven't got them from other people yet. Man I wish I could get a new camera.
Here is me and KC.
Here is John McCain.

How smart is he?

Yesterday afternoon.
Me: Nana want to know what you want for your birthday.

AJ: (pouting) I can't tell her.

Me: Why not?

AJ: Cause then I'll know what I'm getting.

How funny is that?

Last night we went trick or treating. This morning we overheard this over the baby monitor at 7 am after having sent him back to bed.

JM: Little Peanut I can't find the candy anywhere and I looked everywhere.

When I walked into the kitchen after that comment I saw all the cabinets open and chairs pushed up to them so he could climb up. I knew he would look first thing so I made sure I hid it last night in Nathan's filing cabinet. hehe. I was so proud of myself this morning when we heard him say that.

Sarah Palin is AWESOME!

Yesterday I got the opportunity to go see Sarah Palin in person. I'd never even heard her name until just before the Republican National Convention. I had no idea who this woman was or why she had even been picked. Part of me thought that perhaps she was only picked because she was a woman. I wanted to know more. And now I do.
The more I learn and see about her the more impressed I am. Her integrity and upstandingness (is that a word?) is just incredible. She stands for truth and justice. GO PALIN!! shameless plug over.
So back to Wednesday. My mom had been really excited about possibly seeing Sarah Gov. Palin. I was kind of so so on the subject. I thought it would be nice but she was so pumped that I made an effort. We left home at 6 am. One of my MOPS friends had said that she was really eager to see her as well and we're so glad it worked out. KC and her daughter Princess joined us.
We got to BGSU about 7:30. After figuring out where to park and riding the shuttle over to the arena we got in the very super extremely long line. We had a nice chat with those in line around us. Once they opened the doors we were able to move pretty quickly into the arena. There were a whooping 9 protesters outside with their Obama signs.
Once inside, past the metal detectors we walked into the arena we were asked if we would like to sit behind where she was going to be speaking because they wanted "intelligent looking women" who were Palin supports to be seen on tv. We were, of course, obliging.
We were sitting in a section full of college students and high school student. I think KC, my mom, and me were the oldest ones in the section. The guys in front of us were having fun shouting cheers and starting the wave. There were several local and state candidates that were announced. And then....
They announced my girl Palin and arena ERUPTED! Her husband was with her and she had Joe the Plumber come up on stage. She spoke for about 20 minutes and was very well spoken.
Afterward she walked off the stage in the opposite direction that she came in. The crowd followed her getting more and more packed. I really wanted to shake her hand, (future post coming about another VP candidate's hand that I shook, any guesses Sandy?) and I realized that she had to go out the same way she came in. !!!!!!! I went flying to the opposite side of the stage and SQUISHED my way up to the edge. I had my arm out there and she shook my hand. Princess was behind me holding her ticket and I thought she wanted it autographed. I handed to Sarah and SHE SIGNED IT. She looked right at me and I told her, "MOPS moms love Sarah". She said, "Oh thank you so much." Yea me! Turns out Princess already had her autograph (you can read about that here) so she gave it to me.
When we came out of the arena there were more protesters holding signs and asking all cutsey about what Gov. Palin was wearing. There were only about 60 of them.
We didn't get home until after 3 pm. Long day. But very worth it. On the way home I was able to work out the opportunity to be a volunteer today at the McCain rally in the town just north of us. More on that later.
It was a very awesome day. The following pictures are swiped from KC's blog.
Me and KC
The banner behind where we were sitting.
KC and Princess.
The one the only Sarah Palin.
You Go Girl!

Wouldn't I love to Win!!

5 minutes for mom is hosting a photo contest of 'sleeping angels' and they are giving away beautiful bedroom furniture for children. I'm hoping to win the summer breeze collection. The deadline for entries is today.
Well, we certainly have pictures of our 'sleeping angel', one in particular. I had a hard time choosing just one picture. This is JM- at the time he was 2 and we couldn't get him to stay in his bed. He was just too busy and we frequently found him in this or similar positions. Sound asleep...not quite in bed. v

Friends are Awesome!

Last year Nathan and I went to the wedding of a friend of mine in NY. We were excited to meet her new husband and couldn't wait to spend time getting to know them. They've spent the last year in South Korea teaching English to some very cute, young children. Laura blogged about it at Kilpatz Kronicle.
Yesterday we finally got to spend time with them. They are home in the States and have been traveling around visiting friends and family. Dan grew up close to us and loves Cedar Point. Laura has never been so they were trying to work in a visit. Nathan and I jumped at the chance to go with them and we loved having them stay with us as well. We took Nathan's brother Peter with us.
It was a PERFECT Cedar Point day. Short lines, lots of sunshine, and nice cool air. We were able to hit every major coaster 2 or more times and still have time for some of the other cool rides. It's HallowWeekends at Cedar Point so we got to see the really cheesy Halloween Parade with Snoopy and the other Peanuts characters. Here are a few pictures that I snapped with my cell phone.
Dan had to make a Dippin Dots stop. There's a newer ride called maXair. It spins as it swings back and forth. I think it holds close to 60 people. The guys rode it and Laura and I watched. They really enjoyed it. Nathan. Peter. Dan.

There are No Words.

I can't begin to describe my feelings and do them justice in any way. Here's a sampling of some pictures I found on our computer. I miss you so much Daniel. I love you!

Moving July 2005

Fall 2005

County Fair 2007

Sleeping with Baby Grasshopper

Updates

Our school year is off to a running start. AJ started kindergarten. I can't believe that he's 5 1/2, what happened to my little blond baby with chubby checks. He's a lean mean running machine. He's playing soccer again this year and doing great. I think we may have a budding JR in our midst.
JM on the other hand is ornery as all get out. Everything is a weapon of some kind. Everything must be fought. The other day he spent a long time in the tree house killing monkeys that were attacking. I have no idea where he gets these ideas but it does keep him occupied while AJ is at school.
Little Peanut has discovered that she doesn't have to stay in her crib when she's put there so tonight out comes her new toddler bed. She's going to be so excited. This means of course that I'm going to watching her closely at bed time and nap time for the next few weeks.
Grasshopper is doing good. He's still on multiple daily matenience meds for his throat, however, they seem to be working well.
I'd love to post some pictures but since our camera died a tragic and permenant death I can't. Hopefully, I'll get a new camera soon. Hint Hint!!! :)

Hot Hot Coooold!!

As I mentioned before we don't have air conditioning in our house. We do however, have a wall unit installed in our room. That's one reason why it's our room. We try not to use it all the time but some nights just beg for some cool air.
JM frequently gets up at night and moves Nathan over so he can get in bed with us. Nathan usually doesn't wake up until he's squished between JM and me and I'm elbowing for some room. The other morning I woke up early to go help with the yard sale and here's what I saw.
I should mention that this was one of those cold air nights in our room and JM was milking it for all he could. They were both sound asleep and snoring I might add. Yes, Nathan is wearing Christmas light boxers. What can I say, at least the laundry was clean.

Wordless Wednesday *

*and some fashion don'ts!

Hot Hot Hot

This past weekend was almost unbearable with the heat and the humidity. Although our house is nice we do not have air conditioning. We spent most of the week at a friend's house working on the MOPS yard sale. She has air conditioning. (sigh) So even though we were covered in dirt and sweat at least we could take a little break and cool down inside.
My children however, only wanted to be outside. And you can't reason with a 5 year old and a 3 year old who want to play outside.
Friday I think was the worst day for sticky and hot. After we left our friend's house we went to Wal-Mart and bought the kids a sprinkler. We met Nathan there after his softball game and picked out this really neat toy. It was only $8. Nathan drove home to set it up and I took the kids through the local ice cream drive through. Have any of you ever forgotten to give your kids dinner but fed them ice cream instead?? It wasn't really planned but with everything going on that evening that's how it all worked out. I didn't even realize until after they went to bed that I was hungry and remembered that no one had eaten dinner. Opps!!!
The sprinkler was a HIT!! JM loved it immediately. He ran right up and stood over it. He even picked it up and tried to get AJ wet. AJ however, was rather upset that we wanted him to get his clothes wet. He wanted to change into his swimsuit. I told him they were all getting a bath afterward and to just go play. Little Peanut wasn't sure about it at all and didn't really start to enjoy it until we were almost done.
Here's a video of them playing in the backyard.

Memorial Day

I can only say Thank you to all those in the service. Our prayers are with you.

Here Comes the Busy

Wow! What a weekend we have planned. Tonight I have the first Pampered Chef party I've had in awhile. I'm very excited. I'm hoping to make some great contacts and book some June shows. A friend of mine is hosting it and she's so sweet, I'm looking forward to spending some time with her. While I'm 'working' Nathan will be having a softball game. Hopefully we'll work out the kid situation to everyone's satisfaction.
Tomorrow is yard work and errands with the family. I'm sure we'll be attending church in the evening. Nathan will be working half a day and working on his ditch.Groceries must be gotten since today is payday...and bills too.
Sunday we will be going to church and then......my nephew is graduating!! I can't believe how big and old he is. Makes me feel really old. But.....not quite as seasoned as my sis. It's her birthday! Happy Birthday Sis!!!! We'll be having a big ol' shindigg for her birthday. Nathan take notes- I love shindiggs! I can't decide what to get her. I'm sure I'll come up with something.
And as I was typing I realized that this is a holiday weekend! Hokey pete! We'll be doing the bonfire/family thing all together and perhaps I will be on my game enough to post pictures. And right around the corner is Nathan's birthday. He wants to have friends over so I guess I better get planning on that too! Man was I right...Here comes the busy! I guess I better make sure all my house chores are all caught up. See ya later!
*updated- I'm also going yard saling this morning with a friend and all four of my guys in the van too!! What fun.

Water, Water, Everywhere

It occurs to me that AJ hasn't gotten much front page time recently so here's some info on what he's been doing lately. Aside from preschool and the usual church activities AJ took swim lessons last month at our local rec center. JM did too but I had to be in the water with him for his class so thankfully there are no pictures of that. :) AJ did very well in his class learning to blow nose bubbles and working on his front and back glide. Honestly though, I think the part he enjoyed the most was the goggles that we bought him. Hopefully he'll get more practice in since we're planning on spending some time at the rec outdoor pool this summer. I think the goggles make him look like a bug!

Wordless Wednesday

Meet them again

You remember when I posted here about how funny I thought the dinosaur in Meet the Robinsons was? Well, before JM got his summer buzz his hair was rather long. One night after he had had a bath and was in bed this is what I saw. All he needs is the glasses and he will look just like Lewis from the movie. Nathan and I thought it was pretty funny.

Little Peanut's Birthday

Little Peanut turned two last month. I love that she is a girlie girl. With all these boys running around and all the mud recently I enjoy a little girl who loves to wear dresses and have her hair fixed. For her birthday we had cake from Auntie in WV. Here's the birthday girl with her cake. You'll notice that she has two different dresses on in the pictures. No, it wasn't two different days. She started out in the pink one and then Auntie get her the blue one and when she opened it she insisted on putting the dress on right there in front of all her guests. So we did. Auntie got to enjoy seeing it on her that day.
Papa made her a great kitchen cabinet for her toy dishes. Cousin Abby was the 'creative consultant' on the project. She even got to play with Little Peanut with the finished product. Mommy and Daddy got her a playhouse specially designed for little hands.
Back around Easter, my mother-in-law got all the kids a rubber ducky. They each got a different color. AJ was green, JM was blue, Little Peanut was pink, and Grasshopper was yellow. Little Peanut commandeered them all as hers. It was really funny how much she loved those ducks. So guess what Grandma got her for her birthday...four more ducks. She was so funny pulling them out of the packages. Happy Birthday Little Peanut ! We Love You!! We can't wait to see all the wonderful things you're going to learn this year.

This Just Cracks Me Up

My kids love movies, don't most kids? I try to limit how much tv they watch. We just got the movie Meet the Robinsons. There is one part that just completely cracks me up...which is why I got the movie for the kids. The dinosaur is being controlled by "bowler hat guy" and he's try to capture the boy. "bowler hat guy" says to the dinosaur, "why aren't you seizing the boy?"
The dino says, "Cause I have a big head, and little arms and I'm not sure how well this plan was thought through!"
For some reason that just cracks me up. Now back to the laundry, dishes, and house work!

At a Loss for Words

This is what I saw the other night when I went to make sure the boys were asleep in their beds. See that book by JM. Now , mind you, he can't read yet. He does recognize some letters but he can't read. Look at the title. Look closer! Can you believe it! My child took The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn to bed with him. How funny is that?? And how appropriate for this child.

Making Progress

Well, it took a couple days, including time off for good weather. My office/ craft room is doing much better. It's not 100% yet but I'm definitely able to work more in here now. I got rid of 4 boxes full of stuff as well as a large trash bag full of...well, trash. Here are my after pictures. Before

After

Before

After
Before
After

It's Not Saturday Night Fever

Oh no....nothing close to it....more like a Thursday morning fever. High enough that it made my eyes water and nothing would help but laying down. That was yesterday. Doesn't that sound like fun??
Tuesday night Little Peanut seemed quite warm and then on Wednesday she, I, JM, and Grasshopper all had major runny noses and coughs. By Thursday everyone seemed better except for me. I had planned to get ahead in my cleaning and purging this week since I don't have anything scheduled until Sunday.....needless to say I'm now two days behind in that. But the time has come.
My office/craft room is going to go through an overhaul today. Care to watch?? Here are the before pictures....

Did I miss something??

Has anyone noticed that the year 1/4 over??? I feel like I just woke up and realized that it's already April. My sister have both been doing well keeping up with their blogs. It's time to revisit my goals for the year and reevaluate them. I know I have some things to still focus on.

• The first was my skincare routine. I've been doing good with keeping up but it's not quite working as well for me so I think I'll be making some changes. Morning and night will still be on the chart though.
• Prayer time is a struggle for us. I'm going to make it a priority tonight.
  
• Work-out at the Rec!! Well our pass expired in Feb. we just recently got it renewed. The boys are taking a swim class twice a week and that gets me there. Now I just need to use the 30 min. from the start of AJ's class to the start of JM's to get on the elliptical machine.
• More organized...that has been happening but it is still an ongoing process. I've been getting rid of lots of stuff. LOTS OF STUFF!
• as for my Pampered Chef business...it's slowly picking up steam. I'm comfortable with the pace though.
  

I guess I will also focus on updating my blog a bit more too. For those of you who are interested one of my best friends from high school is an MK named Alex. He's currently riding his bicycle from Austin, Texas to Oregon but here's the interesting part. He's going through Mexico up the western coast. He's keeping a journal here and you can check it out. He's taken some great pictures and has some good commentary to go along with it.
More updates about the family tomorrow.