Ethan Goes to Kindergarten

     You've been so patient with me as I have pulled you along on my journey to send my little birdie from the nest.  You've heard about registration,  the screening and orientation.  You've dealt with the ramblings of a proud mama and for that I am grateful.  Today, I packed a lunch complete with tuna sandwiches shaped like fish and fresh cucumbers from the farm.  Will this last?  Probably not but by the time he realizes that I am just telling him to buy what the school is dishing out he hopefully will be all used to the hows and whens of school.  His report upon pickup went a little something like this..."there was some yelling...the lunch ladies are mean...music was interesting...we played football at recess (full on tackle says he)...he really needed to go to the bathroom during library but they did not heed the raised hand and he held it...he went back to the lunch ladies (still traumatizing children everywhere since the beginning of mankind).  After some clarifications and further explanations it appears he had a pretty good day.  I think it was summed up by this little story: "This kid was saying it was his school and I said it wasn't." Somewhere in there I am thinking he meant that it was their school because he was taking some ownership in it as well...and I might be looking too deeply into it but I'm pretty sure that means he liked it enough to call it his own. 
     Did I cry?  I might have had a few tears shed with the excuse that something entirely different was bothering me...but none rolled down my cheeks accompanied by sobs as he walked through the doors of his new school.  I was proud of me.  Of him. Of the team that we were.  I knew he would rock it and he did.  Now, what on earth am I going to blog about???

Scrabble with Harper the Dog

     I got a friend request on Facebook a bit ago from Harper the Dog. (Secretly I worry that she will end up with more friends than me.)   I met her when she was just a pup.  I've watched her when her humans have gone away.  She's not the typical dog.  She has more character then any other dog... ever.  With a tilt of her head or an ear wiggle she makes me smile.  No dog is faster...she is a blur when she runs by.  I'll admit I had no idea how brilliant she was but here I am playing Scrabble with her.  Now when I say brilliant...don't forget she IS a canine.  I am sensing a theme with words like "tire", "digs" and "turd".  That's what you get for playing a word game with a pooch. 

Watch a Live Concert of Gavin on AOL

     Years ago a group of us went to a concert.  There was an opening act...ya know those bands or singers that you talk through?  Or go to the bathroom and miss...or grab a beer while they are singing.  Well, THIS particular singer grabbed our attention.  His name was Gavin DeGraw and he did a cover of Marvin Gaye's "Let's Get it On".  We were mesmerized.  Jenne, Tina and I became fans.  We traveled to many a concert: The Stone Pony in Asbury Park, Croc Roc in Allentown, Tink's in Scranton to name a few.  Each time we screamed the songs on the way and then made fun of ourselves while in line with oodles of young girls waiting to see the cute guy who sang the song from that show.  We weren't there for the "pop" songs from the radio.  We were there for the soulful ballads and creative journeys he took us on.  Ok, ok...and he is a cutie pie...I admit.  It was back then he earned the nickname McYummy.  But honestly there is just something about him in concert.  Live.  Guitar, piano, hats and sweaty tshirts.  He sings about real stuff and is more than just a few trendy lyrics.  I keep hoping that he stays true to his roots and the importance of a well written song and I think this new album shows potential.  Another tough day but as I sat at my computer for the first time in a long time due to power outages I was greeted by a special event on AOL.  It was just what I needed.  So Thanks to Facebook for the reminder, to AOL for the live event and to Gavin for healing up quickly and getting back to your fans.  Can't wait for the new album! 

Whale Rescue

    Tropical Storm Irene kicked a little ass around these parts.  The local creek overflowed and swallowed up neighboring yards and a chunk of mine as well.  Rivers raged and brooks became powerful.  Trees fell and poles were knocked down and many of us lost power.  Losing power at my house means no water either.  We took trips to the local welcome center to use the bathroom and brush our teeth.  The thirty or so hours without power started out with enthusiasm as we would "go camping without driving anywhere" and ended with frustration as a basement filled up with water.  The fun part of grilling turned into trying to save food that would go bad.  We had "shakes" that were just melting ice cream...but hey if there's one thing I can be...it's creative.  The excitement of the first day of school was replaced with a day of playing games and a calm quiet as candles kept us company as the sunlight left our windows. 
     On return from a trip to tour the swelling rivers we pulled back into the driveway to see our pool toy...a whale...floating in the large lake that had formed between the neighbor's house and ours.  I found myself laughing all alone in the yard.  It was one of those moments when the tears have been building up behind your eyes for hours...and the hope is dwindling...and the optimism is waning faster than the waters are receding.  Slightly maniacal... all alone in my yard staring as the whale left my yard and headed for the depths of the neighboring yard...the laughter just kept coming.  A few tears might have slipped out but it least they did so as a result of laughing.  In my head I directed a short film following the journeys of the great creature making its way around gardens, birdhouses and garage doors.  I also felt incredibly guilty as I imagined it would mock the poor people who were trying to save a house from destruction.  Which made me laugh more.  I'll admit I had lost my mind a bit by now.  I was tired, dirty, saddened at the damages I had witnessed and frustrated.  And I was now in a laughing fit I couldn't end.  The winds changed and the whale made its way back to the middle of the great lake (complete with what we believe were fish jumping) and I wondered if I should go on in to get it.  Some time and a bit of patience and there it was at the edge of the gigantic pool.  I walked on over and rescued the black and white plastic renegade who flew from our yard and found the ocean it had been seeking.  He is safe. 
     To all of you going on hours without power...or those that have damage from the storm...or cars that were submerged and totaled...etc...I am truly sorry.  I hope the sunny days help us all to clean up the messes and move forward with hope and the strength it takes to keep on going.  And if you are having a moment of despair just think of me rescuing a whale from a "lake" in the Poconos....I hope it makes you giggle as well. 

Turkey Bacon

     Another day of prep for a hurricane heading our way.  With lots to do a hearty breakfast was a good way to start the day...pancakes and my very first turkey bacon.  The pancakes were delicious but I'll stick to pork.  Oink oink. 

Preparing for a Hurricane

     As I was buzzing around tonight doing laundry like mad if we should lose power...and cleaning...and vacuuming...and making sure we were stocked up on food basics and water...and making the to do list for tomorrow morning...which includes things like prep candles and charge phones and computers...I realized how late it was and that I had no new thing for the day.  Then I realized prepping for a hurricane WAS a new thing...duh.

Solo at the Movies

    After a quick post of this title there were several women adding that they had just recently done this as well.  There at the bottom of the thread was a comment from a male friend asking why this was such a big deal for a woman to go alone to the movies.  Let me clear this up boys.  The movies are for dates.  Sweet dates where boys yawn and stretch and then "cleverly" put their arm around you as it comes back down.  The movies are for couples who actually find the same movie they can both sit through.  The movies are for girls...gaggles of them...to watch movies about how girls rock or how women are strong.  But to sit in a theater with a beverage and a bag of popcorn all by ourselves??? C'mon now.  This means to society that we can't find one lone soul to join us at the cinema.  The thought of doing it solo would horrify many.  Maybe even me a few years ago.  But tonight I felt like seeing a movie and it was so last minute that I didn't even want to send out the signal.  I needed to not waste anymore time today.  I needed a movie I wanted to watch...not one I had to compromise to see.  That movie was The Help.
     I have seen this damn book on every single lap of every single woman for months...to the point that I groan when I spot it.  But I've heard good reviews.  I parked.  Walked up to the ticket guy and said..."Which movie is the best?".  He picked it as well so in I went.  Bag of popcorn and an icy cold soda and a packed house full of couples, gaggles of women and rows and rows of friends.  And me...and I didn't even care.  Not a thought about being alone.  Just glad to be doing something nice after a brutal week of real life.  Funny, as I sat there watching this film I began to realize how much life compared to the ones I was watching on the screen wasn't so bad.  The movie was excellent.  It had many of the formulas I enjoy in a film.  It also reminded me that truth and writing will free us emotionally...and a girl who has been wondering about both of those things really needed to see that theme.   Will some of you grunt when you see what movie I went to see?  Yep.  Will others of you be disappointed in my choice? Probably.  That's alright though... and so was going to the movie all by my lonesome!!!

Top Chef: Just Desserts

     I have watched almost every cooking show that has ever existed.  I don't know how but I've been missing this one.  Today was a rough day with a whole lot of bitter...so I needed something sweet.  I also have been eating really poorly...so I needed something with no points.  The answer to this problem is a show all about desserts.

Make Mozzarella

     Stroudsburg has a great little shop called Kitchen Chemistry right on Main Street.  They have delicious cupcakes, baking, soap, and candy supplies and offer classes.  Way back in March we popped in for a mozzarella making demonstration....to wash down our breakfast cupcakes...don't judge.  Anyway, we learned all about making cheese.  I really had no idea what rennet was or how the whole thing scientifically happened but give a girl who aced chemistry a fun little technique that has an outcome of her favorite cheese and you get one hell of a run on sentence!!!!  All of these months later we made cheese.  First the raw milk from the farm (Sal-Lee of all names)  had to be purchased as did the previously mentioned rennet and some citric acid.  Then the magic and the science began.  We made three batches...each time getting a little bit better than the one before.   Gotta love teaching moments that lead to food!  One batch is wrapped up and ready for my work family.  Another has been dipped into already.  The third went for small balls with herbs.  It's the perfect compliment for the oodles of fresh basil and plump tomatoes that came from the farm tonight.  Also we recited Little Miss Muffett as we explained the whole craziness to Pop.  I will also admit that after hearing that the whey is really good for softening skin I did indeed dump the three gallons into the tub for a quick soaking!  Another fun adventure...and somewhere a couple of grandmas are pretty proud of their half-Italian grandkids!!!

Pequest Trout Hatchery

     Find something new to do challenge:
            -eduational
            -fun
            -close to home
            -gramps can enjoy as well
            -cheap
            -won't take too long

Solution: the trout hatchery
            -many, many teaching moments
            -feeding fishies that splash us while trying to take pictures is quite entertaining
            -Pop Pop walked around with us
            -didn't take long to get to
            -nice little afternoon activity
            -cost: free...except for the trout food which comes out of the vending machine for a quarter
            -bonus: the birds nests in the corners of the entrance complete with hungry babies

So now I know where the trout comes from when they "stock" the rivers.  Thanks to John for this great new idea!

American Idol Concert

     I have been watching Idol since it began.  Faithfully.  Yes, I admit it.  It's a guilty pleasure that I have enjoyed thoroughly for years.  I used to watch it with my Mom and we would fight over who was better.  Then the kids watched with me.  Jenne and I would base tv night on what night it was on.  The torch has been passed and for the last few years Mary and I would talk about favorites.  She has been to two of these concerts already but this year as a treat for my birthday...we went together...along with my new buddy, Stacie and my dear sweetie, Caitlin.
     I imagined an arena full of teenagers and was worried about how I would look at this venue.  I have to say it was the most diverse age group ever seen at a concert.  Little girls stood on chairs and old couples sat there together watching.  No age restrictions at all.  It was a celebration of life.  I might have my favorites when it comes to Idol and maybe there are a few I could have done without seeing...but let me tell you they put on one darn good show.  They all sang their hearts out.  There was something for everyone with what I believe is the most eclectic batch of talents thus far.   It was a blast.  Being eight rows from center stage made it even better.  Of course the company I was with helped to make the time even sweeter...thanks again Mary for a truly awesome night!

Pittsburgh Children's Museum

     When I mentioned the best tour guide ever I didn't think she would want to spend all day at a kid's museum...it would never have been the same without her!!!!  We played in the craft area for quite some time playing with ripped paper mosaics, magnets, paper making and silk screening.  We then hit every little interactive part of the museum that exists.  We stepped back in time to the Mr. Roger's Neighborhood area...very surreal. Then we played with solar panels and sculptures, got drenched in the water play area, became confused with the "gravity room" and tinkered in the many other exhibits, play areas and fun centers.  I make it a point to hit any children's museums I can and this is up there in the top three!

Pittsburgh

     We make up ideas about things all of the time.  We imagine what they will look like or how they will be.  We base them on opinions we have heard, stories, gossip...many different things.  We have also all heard the words, "Don't judge a book by its cover!"...and yet we do it all of the time.  Well, I used to all of the time.  Now I have a strict policy.  No judging.  Welcome the new.  Take it for the lesson and experience what that is.  Enjoy.  It has proven to be a wonderful new method of living.  Why am I saying all of this?  Because in my head Pittsburgh was a grey city of factories and depression.  Books, history, a few people's opinions and ignorance led me to that idea. 
      When one of the coolest people you have ever met invites you to come and check out her city...you go.  Pittsburgh or not.  Boy am I glad I took her up on her offer.   Elaina also turned out to be one hell of a tour guide.  The trip in was almost comical as we battled storms, hail, construction and traffic.  We made it though and something told me that it would all be worth it. 
     First we met a wonderful family and checked out what it looks like to take a building from the 1800's and make it stunning.  I also found a little boy that I would barter a cow for with the promise of a betrothal to my daughter  if only we still arranged marriages.  Then we hit Primanti Bros.  for a true Pitt style sandwich.  I didn't even dare attempt to figure out the points for a sandwich that came complete with slaw and french fries right on it.  Nor was I bothering with worrying about the Iron City lager that I had...we walked plenty that night and probably burned it right off.  A stroll through the city was magical.  I had absolutely no idea about the size and scale of the new and improved city plus we all know how I get about historical stuff...I was in my glory.  A ride on the Mohongohela Incline was a truly unique experience and took us to another magical level of the city.  The skyline and all of its splendor can be celebrated there like no other location.  More time through the city with dancing fountains and lights and bridges made us all fall in love all the more.  Day two consisted of a breakfast fit for one of those shows on the cooking network.  We also hit the Children's Museum but that post is up next.  All the while we got to spend time with the Elaina...funny, witty, intelligent and kind are only a few of her many attributes.  We can't wait for another visit and the bazillion new things we have waiting for us! 

Kindergarten Orientation

     Cute little polo shirt and some gel in his lightened blond hair and off we went to school.  We all sat in the caf to get the big welcome and then names were called.  "Ethan Peck"....poof...he was gone.  I listened to the policies and goals, rules and regulations, hopes, wishes and dreams for the kids this year.  I grasped the packet of paperwork in my hands as I realized my little man would be gone in a few weeks.   I've done all of this before...it should be easy, right? But all the time I was doing this with my artistic angel (now 9) I had a boy in my back pocket to ease the pain.  I stayed strong.  I am not that Mom.  Until..."Welcome Class of 2024" popped up during the presentation.  In that moment I fast forwarded to caps and gowns and every breath in between now and then flashed before my eyes.  Tears did swell but I got myself together before one should roll down my cheek.  I'll save those for other days.  We were then asked to meet up in the classroom with our children.  Another moment of magic as I entered the doorway to find that he was looking for me...and then the smile came.  He was so happy in there as he colored his picture of a school.  We were both smitten with the new room and teacher and hope and promise of all that this year would hold. 
     We walked hand in hand to the bus where we took a ride to see what the route would be like.  As we sat in the tall seat he told me all about his morning...without prompt or request he filled me in.  He was most proud to say that he raised his hand to answer a question about the story that was read to the class.  As we rode through the streets we have grown to know...on a sunny Thursday...I paused time.  I took a mental note and snapshot of the event.  Five years of hard work were all worth it.  Every sacrifice, every story read, every drop of Mama love was here in the smile of a little boy who was confident, excited and happy to be going to school.  His school.  He mentioned going back to Emily's school and I was sure to correct him.  It's his school too.  As if he wasn't already sold - a cookie and a cup of juice sealed the deal.  He's in! 
     I am proud of both of us.  We rocked it.  I am ready for the next stage.  I am thrilled for the next batch of trials and adventures.  I am ready to push my baby bird out of the nest and watch him fly. 
Congratulations to Ethan...class of 2024!

Thank my Poker

     I went to school with this kid named Donald for all twelve years of both elementary and high school.  He was always nice.  Funny.  Smart.  Fast forward to this past fall when we both attended our reunion.  The class of '90 got together to dance, eat, catch up and bond.  There were a group of us that went back as far as first grade.  It was amazing to see them all and to meet some of their better halves.  Donald introduced me to his wife, Andronica.  It was like we knew her all those years as well.  She joined right in with our goofy jokes and patiently listened to times gone by. 
     The night, though great, came to an end all too quickly.  We all went back to our lives.  Different states.  Far away from each other.  Some new Facebook contacts made it nice to share photos.  Others caught up even more.  But then the poking began.  Ronnie would throw a poke my way.  I'd return one.  Then I noticed she poked me more when she knew I was having a rough day.  She would notice a not so chipper post and ....poke.  Some days I think she poked me when she needed a poke back.  Certain blog posts have also raised the poking frequency.  We've suffered loss and we send each other a little reminder that someone out there understands and is having good thoughts for us.  Poke.  Poke. Poke.  Some days it's almost comical how much we bounce back and forth.  There are no time restraints.  If we need each other at any crazy hour of the night we still poke.   I can honestly say almost ten months later that each and every *poke* brings a smile to my face.  They are never...NEVER...taken for granted.
     I appreciate my friends and family for the support...always.  But I wanted to say a special thank you to Andronica for the quiet little chirps that mean a hug has been sent from a friend. 

Listen to "Muppets: The Green Album"

     The Rainbow Connection instantly brings me back to elementary school music class.  Father Burns was an amazing music teacher.  He put on wonderful plays and musicals.  He schooled us on all of the hot new Broadway shows.  His blackboard was adorned with oodles of Playbills.  We learned about opera, classical music and instruments and we were young.  I appreciated it back then because I've loved music forever...but man do I appreciate it now.   I apologize for going off there for a second...it's just that I just heard that song and was right back there in those rows of metal folding chairs singing it all over again.  I loved it then.  I love it now. 
     The Muppet Show was a cherished part of childhood.  It's one of those precious memories of me and my folks in the kitchen.  I would sing the theme song out loud (I know, you can hardly believe it!) and we would wait and see who the guest was for that episode.  Through the years since we all make our Muppet references from time to time.  They are always there hiding in our psyche like they are offstage waiting for their time in the spotlight.  Will I be taking my own children to see the new Muppet movie...yep.  Will I hope to drag along a few "grown ups" to see it as well...you betcha. 
     Of course I remember the words but just in case you have forgotten them or are just too young to know the lyrics...here they are:

Why are there so many songs about rainbows
and what's on the other side?
Rainbows are visions, but only illusions,
and rainbows have nothing to hide.
So we've been told and some choose to believe it.
I know they're wrong, wait and see.
Someday we'll find it, the rainbow connection.
The lovers, the dreamers and me.

Who said that every wish would be heard
and answered when wished on the morning star?
Somebody thought of that and someone believed it.
Look what it's done so far.
What's so amazing that keeps us star gazing
and what do we think we might see?
Someday we'll find it, the rainbow connection.
The lovers, the dreamers and me.

All of us under its spell. We know that it's probably magic.

Have you been half asleep and have you heard voices?
I've heard them calling my name.
Is this the sweet sound that called the young sailors.
The voice might be one and the same.
I've heard it too many times to ignore it.
It's something that I'm supposed to be.
Someday we'll find it, the rainbow connection.
The lovers, the dreamers and me.

Hmmmm....maybe it's one of the reasons I'm always searching.  Thanks Mickey for the idea!!!! 

Rainy Day Art Project

     A bit ago while checking out some stuff at a craft store I noticed there was a sale on cavases.  So for $2 a pop I picked some up along with only four colors of paint.  I waited for a day that was itching for something creative.  Today was that day.  It was grey and rainy out.  It was also the morning before both children had to go to the dentist.  What a great way to distract fearful little brains...
    The rules?  Each of us got our own canvas.  Only four paint colors were allowed.  No peeking at any other canvas.  I thought they would be cute.  Maybe even cool.  I had no idea how much I would truly love them.  They are a collection to be proud of indeed.  It was the kind of project that made me wish this was one of those cool blogs complete with photographs.  Hey...something to shoot for...in the meantime I am pretty excited about the new show I'll have to hang in my very own gallery! 

Rhubarb Strawberry Jam

     It has been a full summer.  Lots happening.  Plus, now we only have a few weeks until school starts so the hectic has been kicked up a notch.  Throw in some special events and an endless list of friends and family we need to visit and I sometimes find myself overwhelmed. 
     Today was a day to recharge.  The rainy day was conducive to the mission of the day...to relax.  It was kicked off with a kitchen full of fruit.  Blueberry jam, strawberry blueberry jam and rhubarb strawberry jam was all made.  I've never chopped up a single piece of rhubarb until this morning. 
     It was a lovely way to start the day and it continued with quality time spent together.  Pooch had play time.  Pop had snuggle time.  Kids had calm time.  Dinner was delicious and dessert was yummy, too.  Tomorrow kicks off one of the craziest weeks yet but we are fully rested and charged and ready to face it head on...and scones and jam will be just the fuel we need to get going!

Quinn Baby Shower

     If you pay attention at all then you know I adore Tina and Ryan.  I adore them individually.  I adore them as a couple.  I love what he has brought to her and what she gives to him.  When you are in their presence you can't help but feel the love.  They make my heart light, my smiles big and give me hope in love and all that it can be. 
     They have shown us in a myriad of ways what love can do...what it can build...what it can accomplish and having a baby was no exception.  Today we got to celebrate.  We did it Colletta-Quinn style with laughter, food,  friends and family.  No detail is left to chance.  It was a collaborative effort for the couple we love from the people who love them. 
     I missed out on this honor almost a decade ago.  I am so absolutely thrilled to be a part of it.  I am so excited to meet the little one.  I look forward to so many new adventures. 
     It was a beautiful afternoon full of excitement for a very lucky little baby and two very lucky parents.  This baby will have a wonderful big sister, some amazing grandparents, some rockin' cousins and an extended family of aunts and uncles and "aunts and uncles".  We are all so blessed to have each other!!! Love you guys!!!
(Jenne, you were greatly missed but were there in spirit!!!)

New Entertainment at Musikfest

     I've been going to Musikfest since 1990 or so.  I fell in love with it then and have only missed a few years since.  Since I didn't get to go at all last summer I dedicated a nice long day to it.  I was thrilled to have experienced some of the best in shows I have seen thus far.  It started with a street performer named, Wacky Chad.  He was entertaining and funny and did wild things on pogo sticks and a tall unicycle.  I was truly amused by the whole show and though I might giggle at the drop of a hat...I am not always that easy to impress.  He impressed me.  Only a few short steps away we got to listen to the sounds of Drew Nugent and The Midnight Society.  Unbelievable.  It was like going back in time to the era that I wish I could visit...the 20's.  I will be looking for them in a speakeasy somewhere.  We took in a few minutes of the classic Polka music, some 50's tunes and some good old rock.  Then we were beckoned by a tent full of drum beats and brass.  March Fourth Marching Band was crazy.  From the costumes to the stilt dancers and all of the madness in between they were truly entertaining.  It was New Orleans meets ska meets drum line meets circus.  There aren't enough adjectives to describe this band just know they were awesome.  I loved showing my budding musician that there are a million different directions to go with her love of music.  It was also pretty wonderful to hear something truly unique and this year packed in a ton of brand new sounds!!!

Kindergarten Screening

     He seemed a tad bit nervous as we walked into the doors at his new school.  The sweet secretary walked him over to a table full of brand new storybooks and said that he could pick one.  This was a distraction so that I could be whisked away by the school nurse to update forms.  The school psychologist then tested him.  She came back with a smiling little boy who said, "It was easy, Mom!".  It's just another moment...a sweet validation...a tender feeling held on pause for a second or two...when I feel like I've done a pretty good job so far.  Next week...orientation!!!

Answer the question, "Marshmallows or marshmallow cream?".

     I needed a quick new thing.  I'm not really sure if this counts.  But it's making me giggle and I'm pretty sure I've never done it before.  I asked if someone could help me with an idea or ask me a question...my cousin came to the rescue.  It's odd too because a bit ago I was watching a food show (shocker) and they mentioned marshmallow cream and boy did it look yummy.  But ya see, Christy is a foodie.  A big one.  She rocks everything from her own bee hives to a food swap,  a blog,  you name it.  She is my food hero.  So Christy to you I say marshmallow cream.  I'm sure whenever you need the fluffy goodness of that particular flavor you whip up your own heavenly goo.  I can't see you bustin' out a bag of pillows.  We both were raised on veggies as snacks and severe restrictions on the junk food but I will say that I do whip up the occasional batch of rice cereal and marshmallow treats.  I have little ones...it's in the Mommy handbook.  Hmmm, might have to make a batch sometime soon now that it's in my head.  Thanks Christy for both the question and the craving to go with it!!!

Uh oh...I hit post and realized you might have meant Fluff.  I have never had a jar of fluff or eaten it.  I think I was forced to taste a fluffernutter....hmmm.  The question came from you and I assumed the real deal.  Something cooked on the stove and cooled.  So to clarify....cream if it's real and pillows of white if it means using Fluff.  Damn, those raccoons...I could go for a marshmallow now.  

Craft Time with Jenne

     It's been a long time since the two of us have worked on something creative.  It was fun.  It's a new thing because this time instead of in a gallery it was in her home and it's for a special event that is coming up so that's all I can tell ya! (Hint...it's for our bestestest buddy, Tina.)

Listen to Monday Morning on Monday Morning

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West End Lanes with the Boys

     It's been a long time since I was bowling.  I think it was somewhere between kiddies.  A long time ago my Dad was quite the bowler.  I have fond memories of the alley down the street.  It was the 70's and there were cans of Tab on every table and pinball machines to keep a little (bored) child entertained.   I went to league night up until my Mom's back could no longer handle the sport.  Years later I found myself liking the game from time to time.  There would be the urge to make it back to the 70's and luckily most alleys seem transform me right back to that time.  Maybe it's the same decor they have had since those days.  Maybe it's the snacks.  Or the dated music.
     I've been wanting to get Ethan there for a while now...and tonight presented us with some time.  Emily is off at a concert with her Dad so I had some special time for the little guy.  I also have never challenged John to a game.  Plus, I wanted to get my Dad out to do something that he used to love.  It is not easy keeping a sad and cranky old man happy...but I will continue to try. 
     After a quick stop at a fast food restaurant and prior to a dessert of ice cream at a roadside joint we went bowling.  Two games.  My gutter ball was slowly but surely replaced by a couple of spares and a few strikes as well.  Ethan used a rack to roll his ball down the alley.  Pop had trouble lifting his 16lb and once light as a feather ball.  But he didn't give up.  He'll be sore in the morning but I hope he will think it was worth it.  We were sure to hit the arcade for some air hockey, driving games and the beloved pinball.  Ethan has a pocket full of vending goodies.  It was a fun night to distract a little boy from the fun his sister was having and distract his grandfather from everything else....it was pretty fun kicking a little butt as well!!!

Pool Time with Mary

     We wanted to squeeze one day in all summer when Mary would get to experience the fun of the pool.  The kids were ready to show off the skills they had learned in the short time they have been in the water.  Gramary made it out bright and early this morning and off we headed...with bags, towels, snacks and reading materials.  Well...of all the gorgeous days we've been having all summer...she picked the yuckiest day of the season.  We tried though because that is what we do.  We stay positive and find ways to crack each other up.  Even when the drizzle begins we hope to concentrate on the passing cloud...the one tiny one...that must be holding those five drips.  Well, two girls can hope.  We did get a little time.  Just enough for the staff to uphold the BRAND NEW rules and forbid all food.  There go the snacks back to the car.  Just enough time to see the kids swim.  Just enough time to catch up.  Just enough time to run to the car with all bags, items, etc to escape the downpour.  We're not sure if Gramary will be able to make it back out to the pool we have lived for all summer.  The one that has replaced pale and sad limbs with tan and happy ones.  The one that has given two little fishies a place to grow their gills.  The one that has been a place for recharging for one mentally exhausted mama.  But if not...we did find a few sharks(Land) today at the pool...and we toasted a thanks to the woman who gave us a summer that we all really needed.  Thanks again Gramary for the pool...it means more than you'll ever know!

Kindergarten Registration for Ethan

     This is the second time around that I am doing these things but it counts as something new because it is with a different child.  (Please don't forget I am doing 365 new things.)  The first time was exciting and new and by the time I had two it was easier.  It is not as tragic to do things with the first if you know you have another little one waiting in the wings for the next round.  But here I am now...so excited for all that he is about to achieve but feeling all of the sadness that a Mom feels when her little baby is getting big. 
     I do ok for the most part.  When I sort out the old size clothes for the new size I try not to let it bother me.  When toys are too babyish I replace them with the next best thing.  I have tucked away the picture books for stories and then for chapter books.  I do ok.  For the most part.  But this one is going to be a toughie.  For almost a decade I have lived for these two little wonders.  I have made summers full of Letters of the Day and themes.  I have done every craft project, read a bazillion stories and played a ton of games.  This September they will both enter those doors at school and though I always look forward to the next stage and the new accomplishments we will all have...it just seems a bit sad already.  It will be quiet.  My tiny little sweethearts will both be gone.  I am quite excited for the journey ahead but I can't help but look back at the path we have already walked...and feel a little sad that there will be no tiny hand in mine.

Beginners with Jenne and Leigh Ann

     When I was a kid I started to really pay attention to music lyrics.  As I grew older I started to think that they were writing my life story.  Of course the music was mirroring my little life...why wouldn't it be???  I realized at some point it was a huge coincidence but I thought about it here and there and did find many songs that became my anthem for the latest challenge.  (Psssst....I still do it sometimes.)
     Maybe the music thing was a lucky match from time to time but this movie thing that has been happening the past year or two is hitting a little too close to home.  Over.  And.  Over.  I found some eerily similar parallels in a few movies.  Cartoons were even dangerous.  Tonight, was yet another one.  The character is 38 and has to sort pills for his parent dying of lung cancer??? C'mon.  Ok, so without giving too much away...maybe I don't have a Jack Russell or design album covers but there was enough in there to make me cry on my fun girls' night out.  It was a great movie.  The acting was superb.  It was interesting and lovely.  And sad.  And funny.  Really funny.  Maybe I should stay home from now on.  Or  mmm maybe I should stick  t t to m m movies about stuttering Kings. 
   

Celebrate a dog's first birthday!

     Today Ella had some extra special celebration time.  We went to the new dog park and let her play with her canine buddies.  She ran and chased a ball and frolicked with the pooches.  Then we hit the pond and let her go for a dip.  She is still not quite sure about the water but it was a good step in the right direction.  I did not bake her a cake nor make her the treats from scratch as I promised I would so maybe we'll have to extend her day to birthday week.   If us humans can do it then why can't Ms Nutella Fitzgerald??? 

Crazy, Stupid, Love.

     I loved this movie but I don't want to give things away.  But when you find your soul mate...you don't let them go.  You fight.  You make sure they know. 

Ethan's Kindergarten Physical

     My Mom raised me to accept what had to happen in order to stay healthy.  Sometimes there were shots.  Sometimes things hurt.  But it would be over soon enough.  I have passed that along.  We prepared for this big visit.  I let him know what would happen and prepped him as best I could.  Oh, and there was a slight bribe that if he rocked his appointment we would shoot straight to Target for a treat.  A little bribery never hurt anyone. 
     He was awesome.  He was measured and weighed.  Poked.  Looked at.  Peed in a cup.  Walked on his toes and heels.  Rocked his vision test.  Answered questions...actually when asked if he could count to ten he set the doctor straight and said..."No, I can count to 100".  But he did it with a funny voice.  We were joking that when the nurse would rub the alcohol on his arm he would scream, "Ouch!!!"... but he was a little distracted by the three large needles.  He made it through all three like a champ.  My hand was squeezed for one.  "Ouch, elephant, ouch" got him through the second (thanks Jenne) and the third was another hand squishing.  Not a tear.  He told me that my practice pinches had worked because the shots weren't so bad after all.
     On our way to Target we discussed things like polio and "chicken pops" and why we needed vaccines.  He's the kind of kid who just wants to know.  He wants to know everything.  So I tell him.  With that knowledge he is able to move on to the next bit of wonder and the next fifty questions.  My little guy is heading off to Kindergarten in mere weeks and I'm not sure who is going to take it harder...him...or...me.  But as for today a relieved Mom and an amazing little boy walked hand in hand in search for a toy while pretty darn proud about how we are as a team!