The Moore Family Blog

Happenings.....

2011-01-07T20:17:00.002-06:00

The last few months have been very hard in the Moore Household. BUT.... on the up side, David went back to work for the union. I have been working 2 jobs, and have been busier than all get out. The kids started dog training. The twins are doing very well, and Ashley is starting out with Jake, mom's Mastiff. We are training in a unheated pole barn. The holiday's were decent, I didn't get enough time off as I would have liked, but with starting my new job, you really can't take off as much as you would like. I believe that this year will be so much better than the last year. I have changed my outlook, and hopefully things will be better. So, I am trying to post more on here for those of you who follow my blog.

Have a great night all!

Let Deer Season Begin

2010-11-07T19:45:00.004-06:00

Well, Bow season is in full swing. David is out hunting every morning and afternoon. Shot gun season starts soon and Courtney is all ready to go out. As of right now, she doesn't have the proper gear to go out, but the stuff is very expensive! So, she is going to have to make due with David's gear for now. Sarah is still undecided if she is going to hunt with her gun or wait till she can pull the bow back enough. This week, David is going to take the kids to the shooting range to sight in their gun. This is the picture of the deer David got last week. Sarah is holding up the head for me to catch it on the camera. Hopefully, there will me more to come!

It's been a long, long time....

2010-11-07T18:55:00.002-06:00

Well, I figured I'd blog a bit today. It's been a long time. Things have been going well for us. The twins have started playing 6th grade basket ball. They are not too bad players. Ashley is doing well in school. All the kids got good grades on their report cards. I just finished 2 classes, and got B's in them both. I start my next term on Wednesday. I have 12 classes till I graduate, again.

Halloween was good, the kids got a ton of candy. The kids looked good in their costumes. We saw some of their friends when we went Trick or Treating.

My job is going great. I love working at a place where I'm appreciated for what I know. It's amazing what I have missed out on during the 10 years I spent at my last job.

A friend of mine and I have started to work out each day. Some days we walk together, and others we don't. So far, I have lost 16 pounds. Not bad for watching calories and a little working out now and then.

Well, now I'm off to get the kiddies ready for bed. We got school and work tomorrow, and the twins have practice as well.

Picture Updates

2010-08-19T20:23:00.003-05:00

The girls with "Papa G."

Andrew and me at his 1st Birthday.

Terri and Vicki Funk with the kids.

Here's some pictures taken over the summer....

Middel School

2010-08-19T20:14:00.004-05:00

Courtney and Sarah started Middle School this year. They get to use lockers as well as change classes 7 times. Courtney started playing the flute. She has learned 3 notes. She loves it so far. Sarah is playing the french horn. She loves it also. Ashley is at the Elementary school, and is in 3rd grade. She got one of Sarah's old teachers.

I recently started a new job. It is at a Surgery Center located in Laporte. I absolutely love it. It is a great place. The people are so nice, and so are the doctors. I have been there for 2 weeks now. I actually enjoy going to work now. My friend Jamie works there also and we ride together. The drive is very nice, not a bunch of traffic.

David is still doing his Construction business. Going so so. Things are slow everywhere.

Tomorrow the twins are having friends over for a sleep over. I will be back with updates...

Let it Snow!

2009-12-19T10:13:00.002-06:00

Well, today is the first day of Christmas Break, for the kids. They slept in till 7:30! We are spending the day in our P.J.'s playing the Wii, cleaning, and just messing around. I thought about running some errands, but it is just too cold! The snow is really falling now. I like it and I hate it! Courtney is cleaning her room and Sarah is playing the Wii. Ashley is going back and forth.....

Well off to clean the bathroom!

Getting updated.....

2009-12-19T09:20:00.002-06:00

Well I guess it has been a very long time.....

Last week, Ashley was feeling a bit under the weather. So, because it was Friday I decided to take her to the doctor. She ended up with Pneumonia and had to be admitted. WE admitted her to Starke Memorial Hospital. Ashley was very dehydrated and they had to stick her 7 times to get an IV started on her. She had Oxygen on and was getting breathing treatments every 2-4 hours. The next morning, Our Doctor came in and decided that Ashley needed to be in the Peds ICU and he wanted to transfer her to Memorial Hospital in South Bend.

So, we waited for the Memorial Team to come and get us. Ashley was still not Oxygenating right and the Respiratory people were waiting with us. Finally the Ambulance got there to take Ashley. It was a long and bumpy road. David was driving behind in the van.

We get to the hospital and get settled in. David and I decided to go out to the van to get our things. We get lost 3 times on our way out! Yeah, there are certain elevators that do not go to certain places. Totally weird!

Now, Ashley was started back on Oxygen, and 2 Antibiotics, as well as Vest Physiotherapy. And then Monday she turned a corner. Ashley was interested in talking to us, and wanted to get washed up. Tuesday they let us go home.

Now, Ashley is still on Antibiotics but is almost fully recovered. Things are good. We were very nervous for a while, and Sleeping on a chair for 5 days is not fun, but she is all well!

Courtney and Sarah Turn 11

2009-09-30T19:19:00.002-05:00

On the 28th, Courtney and Sarah turned 11 years old. It seems like yesterday they were only 4 and 6 pounds. This year, I asked them what they wanted, and every time they said a Ipod with a screen. So, I let them know that if I got it for them, that was going to be their only gift. They were fine with it. Saturday, I took them to Steak 'N' Shake for lunch, and then we went to Walmart and got them their Ipods. I sent cupcakes to school with them on Friday, the on Monday, David sent flowers to them at school. Monday night we had a cake just the 5 of us at home. The girls decided that they wanted a friend party this year so Next Sunday is the party at the High School pool. It should be a good time.

Our 8th Wedding Anniversary

2009-09-30T19:11:00.002-05:00

Well, the 24th was our anniversary. I was working of course. The last 2 weeks have been so hard at work. We have been so busy. I forgot to take my phone out of my pocket while I was criculating a case and David called me. I had to blow him off fast so that the Doctor wouldn't get upset. At the end of the day, the girls at work told me to go to the discharge unit. David left flowers and a balloon for me! It was the sweetest thing in the world! I wasn't even expecting anything! We decided to buy a camcorder as our present this year. I just can't believe that we have been married for 8 years! Where on earth does the time go!?!? It seems like yesterday I was being set up with him by a girl I used to work with.

Been a long time.....

2009-09-15T19:44:00.002-05:00

Well, I'm so sorry for not blogging in so long. Things have been a bit crazy here. I have been working some different days than I normally do. The kids keep me busy between homework and everything else they get into. David is still off work. 10 months now. Dog training is over for a few months. I am now up to 11 soldiers that I write and send packages to. We had our family cook off on Labor day.
http://chi-chi-cup.weebly.com
I have been pressured to get the site done. I still have some things I need to finish on it, but for the most part it is up and running. My school work has kept me super busy. I had 3 papers due this week alone. Last weekend, we had our town wide yard sale. Alex and her sister came out for it. WE got some great things there.

Sarah is writing a "book". she is on Chapter 5, I think. Courtney and Sarah got a bow for their birthday. They are wanting to go deer hunting with David this year. I'm thinking that they won't make it because they have to have a draw weight of 35 pounds and they are only at like 22 pounds. But they have been shooting almost every night. They have great aim.

Well, I guess that is it for now. I'm not sure what else to write. nothing has been new, but if I think of something I will add it.

Night all!!

July 2009

2009-07-04T11:51:00.002-05:00

Well, we are a week away from the fair. We got almost every project done. Ashley's Plants and Flowers poster, Sarah's Scrapbook, gift for giftwrapping, poster for dogs as well as shooting sports. We can't do her foods project until July 6th. Courtney is out in the Garage with David working on her woodworking project, we got her dog poster done, we need a few things to get her shooting sports poster finished. We can't do her foods project either. Tonight, we are having some fireworksat the house. I hope it stops raining. I have been working on my 2 classes, they are almost over.

Go to this Website!!!

2009-06-18T18:15:00.001-05:00

I was playing on the internet tonight and I came across this free site called Adopt a soldier. You can register to adopt a soldier from any branch. We get their name and address to become a supporter. We can write letters, mail packages to them. Very cool.

Go here

Pictures

2009-06-18T17:48:00.003-05:00

Sarah and Andrew

Courtney and Andrew

Ashley and Andrew

Courtney and Sam

Exciting info.....

2009-06-18T17:12:00.003-05:00

Andrew William was born Tuesday morning 8 pounds, 8 ounces.

Well, this past week, has been a bit on the nutty side. We went to see Derek and Alex. They are doing very well, and are at home. He is so sweet and cute.

We had a second gift wrapping meeting. Sarah did a practice gift and she did well. We made the bow and everything. Now it is time to get going on the real gift for fair. A great friend of mine had a death in the family. Very sad situation.

We hit some great yard sales while I was off work. Starke Memorial Hospital is now a part of Laporte Hospital. School is going well, I have an A in my Terrorism class, and a C in my math class. Math is super hard. I would like just to pass. Still selling things on EBay. I love to sell things, my stuff or someone elses.

The Mint fest is this weekend and we are going to listen to Category Five play Saturday night. That is the band that the kids principle is in. They are super good.

David is working on getting the Bob Cat going so he can get some jobs with that. It goes to the sandblaster Friday, the off to be painted. He is rebuilding the motor this week. We lost 3 fish in 24 hours, last week, kids were all upset. But I got a treatment and so far, we have not lost any more. I'm going to give it a few weeks before we put any new ones in the tank. Courtney was so sad about her fish, she went out with her own money and got her own 1 gallon tank with 2 fish in it for her room. She has to pay for the filters and the food. Hopefully she won't kill them!

Well, I think that is all the new info for now! More pictures coming soon!

Sorry it took so long!

2009-06-08T15:20:00.002-05:00

Ever since I have been on Facebook, I have forgotten about my blog here. Well, I'm back and get ready to read, because a bunch has happened over here.

May was a busy month. We had many parties to go to. We had a gift wrapping meeting for Sarah's 4-H Project. Got all the details for that. We went to get the perfect paper and ribbon. We have to make a bow. nothing store bought. That should be interesting to try. My brother's ex girlfriend came out on Memorial day. We had a small get together with David's mom and boyfriend, my parents and Caron. We cooked out, set up a tent, then took it down because it was lightening. Man, we had that tent loaded up with stuff for the kids, blankets, and pillows, that sort of thing. Then came the talent show for the 4th grade. Sarah did a cool dance thing with some friends in her class. They got 3rd place. Then Courtney did a Tai Chi Demo. She got 2nd place. School let out June 1st. I ended up getting a week off of work because we had no cases. I just took call, and I got to collect Unemployment. I might get used to that. LOL Ashley is doing well, she likes to ride her 4-wheeler around the yard all day. We have a few tracks in our yard to show for it. I ended up having to split some of my plants for the girls at work. Win, Win for all of us, because these plants are expensive!

June Started out better than May did. We had a dog show, on Saturday. Courtney got disqualified from Agility. Sam went number 2 in the show ring. Sarah had a issue with Obedience. Sam was nearby after I told Courtney to put him in the kennel. Molly jumped right over the ring and went to him. Sarah was really mad at Courtney. Then we had our cousin Aaron's Grad party the same day out at Aunt Terry's house. I had to bring the dogs with because we were so close and I didn't want to drive more than I had to. But the dogs were great even thought there were 2 other dogs there. I think it was because they were so sleepy! They did impress everyone though!

I have to go back to work on Tuesday the 9th of June. I really don't want to go back. I have liked the getting up whenever we want to, doing whatever we want to, when we want to. No schedules or anything. But reality has come back. This month we have another Gift Wrapping meeting, and shooting sports starts up. We have 4 meetings and 2 are out at the firing range.I'm not sure what our project will have to be this year..... Well, I guess that is all the new information that is going on. I hope that I haven't made your eyes cross.

Eye Doctor.

2009-05-06T18:14:00.001-05:00

Today was the kids eye doctor Appointment. I'm glad to report that noone needs glasses!!! YEAH!!!

Buckley Homestead

2009-05-06T17:48:00.003-05:00

Today the North Judson 4th grade went to Buckley Homestead. We went on a tour to the Schoolhouse, Cabin, Barn and the Hired Hand House. This trip brings back many great memories of going there as a child. I remember being the Twins' age and going there with my Grandpa and all my cousins. Walking all over, making candles, seeing many animals.

Good Times.....

New info.....

2009-04-26T19:33:00.002-05:00

Things here have been super busy. The twins have been practicing for the 4-H Share the Fun Program. It is where all of the 4-H clubs in the county get together and do small plays. People can do a group thing or a solo act. Some sing, we did a remake of the wizard of oz. Courtney was Dorthy, and Sarah was the Lioness. Sam was going to be Toto, but he didn't like the stage stairs, so we didn't use him. This time we tweaked the play with green shoes, the green brick road, and trying to get to the fair in time. Because this was for 4-H. It was so cute. I can't get the video to load here. I'll keep working on it for you guys. The sound goes in and out because Courtney was the only one with a Mic.

Courtney is working on a Tai Chi thing for the 4th Grade Talent show. I'm not sure what Sarah is going to do, yet. I recently broke a tooth on some sugar free gum, and it broke so bad, the dentist said to either pull it or do a root canal. And MAYBE the root canal may stay. I went to Dr. Block and Stevenson and had it pulled. I was so sad to hear that Dr. Block retired. This was last Wednesday. I have been in a Vicoden fog for the last few days. Everything is better now though. Oh it was the very last tooth, so you don't even notice it gone. Still a bit tender, but all in all o.k.

I came up on my cousin Rachael on Facebook today. That was cool, now I can keep up with her. Well, I guess that is all the news for today.....

Night All!

A Long Day

2009-04-18T17:07:00.002-05:00

Today was a very nice day. We had a golf lesson from Dad, (see post before this one.) Then we went to the park. There were a bunch of people there, so we went to a small section of the park. We were the only people there. That was nice. David worked a half a day at Sarah's teachers house, then he went fishing. After the park we came home and I decided to pull weeds. Man, do weeds grow fast! I also noticed that this year, some of my plants were getting too big for the spot I had, so I thought I would move some of them. What a messy job! I hate to get dirty! But I ended up moving 5 plants, splitting them in the process. Now, I have more flowers to come up soon!

I'm ready for a nap!

Golf Lesson

2009-04-18T16:25:00.003-05:00

For Christmas, Dad bought Courtney and Sarah golf clubs. Today they started their first lesson. Dad came over with his clubs, tees, and golf balls. He went on about what not to do, and then started showing the girls what TO do. And then he hit the ball over into the field across the street, and we lost a ball.

Here's a picture of Dad showing the girls how to stand and hold their hands on the club. Sarah was getting mad because she wants to do everything perfect the first time. She was upset that she was missing the ball, and when she did hit it, it was not getting lost across the street like Dad's was.

Here's a picture of Dad helping Courtney with her form. She was doing great hitting the ball except she liked to step into the swing like she was hitting a baseball. I think we are going to have to nail her feet to the ground. Courtney did do good most of the time, hitting a bit across the street. We were able to find all the balls Courtney hit over there.

Now, here is Dad helping Sarah swing the club. She was getting so mad at Courtney because Courtney was hitting better than she was. Sarah gets mad at sports easy. She wants to be the best the first time she does anything, and if she is not..... she gets mad and wants to quit. Sarah was doing well after a bit of coaching from Dad. She got very mad a few times and had to sit out to cool off once.

Family Update.........

2009-04-16T18:51:00.002-05:00

Well, it has been a long time since my last post. Things have been a bit on the boring side. We have been working and going to school. The girls have been working the dogs for the fair. Ashley has been enjoying the weather. We colored eggs for Easter. I'm the only one who will eat them..... At least we just did 1 dozen. David has been working on the driveway. Getting it ready for new gravel. We have to get the ruts out before they come. Things have been slow at the hospital lately, but now things are picking up. I have worked over a few nights in the past week.

I guess that is all that is going on right now. I have been slacking on the pictures of the kids, I need to get going on that. well, I'm signing off for now!

Learning so much!

2009-03-04T20:15:00.002-06:00

This week, I have learned so much. Our Hospital is being sold, we have a buyer. I found out that our new President is trying to pass something that healthcare professionals will freak out about. Right now, we are able to refuse to be apart of an abortion. I'm fine if you want to have one, I just don't want to assist you in it. But there is a new lay Obama is trying to pass that and staff or dr. can't refuse to perform abortions because it prevents the mother from having care where she wants to have it done. So, because we do D & C's we will now have to do abortions if the situation comes up. So, I and the girls at work are writing to our Satae Reps to protest this law.

Interesting. There is tone of info on YouTube about it....

Click Here to check it out...

Very sick stuff, and if the time comes for me to choose my job or helping someone kill a baby, I'm sorry, I will have to lose my job.

New Life Generation

2009-02-27T14:56:00.002-06:00

New Life Generation is the New Tissue Donation Company that I have started working with. This company main focus is the donor families. They have a very nice website as well as wonderful programs for the donor families. Feel free to browse the website, by typing in www.newlifegen.org, or by Clicking Here

Dog Training Update

2009-02-27T13:22:00.002-06:00

Courtney has been working very hard at Dog Training the last few weeks. Sam is heeling off leash, and Molly has figured out that she can't trick Courtney anymore. Molly was not listening to Courtney but when someone else worked with her she knew what she was supposed to do. It was quite funny, as well as frustrating. They started some Agility last night. It took some reminding but both dogs did well.

The kids picked out their 4-H Projects last Monday. Ashley is doing Plants and Flowers, Sarah is doing Foods, Scrapbooking, Shooting Sports and Gift Wrapping. Courtney is doing both dogs, Woodworking, Shooting Sports and Foods. Courtney is so excited that her project is making a foot stool. She is so ready to get going but we are waiting for the books to come in. Courtney did foods last year, so she can get started on that one. This year she has to make muffins, and Sarah is only in the 1st year, so she makes cookies. Poor Ashley wants to do more than 1 project, but because she is only a 4-H Mini, she can only do one. Sarah gets her cast off next Tuesday. She is so ready for it to be off.

So, guys, this is our update so far. Things have been really boring around here in the last month or so.

Science Fair 2009

2009-02-25T18:36:00.002-06:00

Courtney's project was: How Permanent are Permanent Markers.
They are very Permanent. WE used soap, Vinegar and Alcohol, and nothing happened.

Sarah's Project was: does sugar or salt make water freeze faster. Sugar water freezes
water faster than plain water and salt is only slush after 2 hours in the freezer.

Everyone in the 4th grade with a 90 percent or higher got a medal. Both girls got a 91 percent.
They did very well on the posters.

It's been a long time

2009-02-25T18:06:00.002-06:00

Well, things have been a bit off over here. My internet was off for a while, and now I have it back. David has still been laid off from work, and I was laid off for about a month. But things are better now, I am back to work, and school. I have a few more posts coming up with what the girls are doing.....

Cell phone MANIA!

2009-01-17T11:14:00.002-06:00

Courtney and Sarah got Track phones from Mama and Papa for christmas. We had some problems with them, but now they are fixed and they have learned to text and they are playing on them all the time. But the good thing is that the girls are doing more chores around the house to earn money for minutes. Well, I'll be posting more later!

New Job Opportunity!!!

2009-01-03T17:01:00.003-06:00

Let me tell you all how stupid my boss is. A company by the name of New Life Generation comes to the hospital. They have a meeting with the management about getting their company into the hospital. What they do is Bone and tissue harvesting. For burn patients and things like that. So, my boss tells all of us Techs that they are hiring people from Starke to do recoveries at our hospital. We would get paid our call back pay as well as a dollar amount from them. So, the 6 of us Techs go to a business meeting with this new Company.

This company is looking for 5 people to run the Northwest Indiana Region. What we would be doing is taking call for X days a month. When a person dies and the family wants to donate tissue and bones, we get beeped. Then we go to the South Bend office, gather supplies and then go to the hospital and do the recovery. This is a JOB. Not something just for Starke Hospital. Our stupid boss just handed over her only 6 Techs to a better paying job. The pay is by the case as well as by the tissue being harvested. Way too complicated to explain here. So, I filled out the application and gave them my resume. Hopefully I will be one of the 5 offered the position. From what I understand, IOPO does not get into a lot of tissue. Their bread and butter is organs and as far as my hospital, we have had only 5 that I know of donors in 8 years, come through our Surgery department.

There is a huge demand for tissues as well as bone in the state of Indiana. From one complete harvest, your tissue is able to help 50 people. With this new company, they do not even touch the upper body besides the heart, ribs and cartilage. So, the potential for a perfect normal viewing is possible. Now grafting total bone is possible, it is more common to grind up the bone into a powder and use it as bone putty. They harvest veins and heart valves as well.

Another thing that is so cool about this opportunity is that we wouldn't be assisting someone doing the procedure... we would be the one getting the tissue and bones out. Actually doing the "surgery". How cool is that! Well, for me and my friends it sounds so cool! I think it is very funny that my boss just handed us a job opportunity! She will freak out when a few of us get this new job!

The site is not up and running yet, but here is the link to the site! Feel free to check it out!

Click Here

Christmas 2008

2009-01-01T15:09:00.002-06:00

I know I'm a bit late with our Christmas Report, but things have been just super busy around here. My boss decided to shut down the department for a few days, because no one wants to have surgery right before Christmas. Can't blame people there, but I needed to work, so I picked up some hours in ER. Then cases got added on, some semi emergencies, so I ended up working 19 hours in 1 day. I haven't been that tired since the twins were newborns! I ended up finding a Wii and getting it right before Christmas. The girls were super excited! They have played it non stop. Ashley got her red nintendo DS for christmas, and she was in love! The girls also ended up getting something like 10 games for the Wii when all the gifts were opened. My Brother got the kids very nice cases for their Ds's as well as some Wii games he got on sale. The kids had a great christmas this year, and we have had tons of fun playing the Wii! I think it is the best game ever!

I ended up getting a nasty chest cold right after Christmas and when Dad kept the kids for us for new years, I went to bed before the ball dropped. A night alone with no kids, and I was sleeping. Other than that, things have been same old same old around here.....

My friends at work and I are going to start a new weight loss challenge. It is $50.00 to get in and who looses the most weight in 2 months wins the cash! We are all excited to get it started and win some money! But I think I'm going to kick some butt this time, because some of the girls getting in on this haven't lost the amounts I have. Hopefully, this can pay off the Wii!!!

The Ice Storm Last Night

2008-12-19T18:22:00.003-06:00

We had the most Ice on everything that I have ever seen. I had to take some pictures of it for everyone to see. Schools were closed and we lost power for 11 hours today. The kids went outside and played in the ice for a bit. The dogs didn't know what to think. Molly was Molly, but Sam didn't want to have anything to do with the ice. He did his thing and came right back inside. So, while the kids were outside playing, I got some pictures.

This is our bench on the front porch.

This is the tree in the back yard. You can't see the ice very good on this one.

This was our pine tree in the front yard. Very cool! Every needle has ice on all sides of it. It felt smooth as glass and so pretty!

A different view of the pine tree.

This is my van and the ice on it. It was packed by the wipers. There was about a inch of ice on it this morning. When David went to town he let his truck run for 20 minutes and still had to scrape ice off of it.

My Weekend.....

2008-12-17T17:44:00.002-06:00

David got this small deer the other day and he got the bright idea to butcher it himself... We got a bunch of loin steaks and a ton of jerky meat. We cooked jerky all day last Saturday, we had so much we had to freeze some of the meat.

New Email Address

2008-12-17T17:31:00.002-06:00

For everyone who wants to get ahold of me, I just got a new email address:

jennmoore3@gmail.com

Oh Christmas Tree........

2008-12-16T19:38:00.003-06:00

Last weekend we went to Hensler's Tree Farm in Plymouth. The kids got to see Santa, get Hot Chocolate, and check out the Reindeer.

Sarah

Courtney

Ashley

Our Tree!

Our Thanksgiving

2008-11-29T20:36:00.002-06:00

Well, this year I was on call. So, David went out deer hunting in the morning and I was cooking away. We had just us and his mother over this year. Mom and Dad went to Grandmas and then they came over afterward. Nothing too big. I did mess up and cooked my turkey upside down. There was no popper on this one, so I had no clue which way was up. The girls and I watched the parade and the dog show. You know, I have alwasy loved the dog shows! They are so pretty... and well groomed. I didn't get called in though thank GOD for that one. I'm on the rest of this weekend also. So, just hanging around the house for me. On Sunday we all are going over to Aunt Terri's house to shingle the garage and put the plywood on the walls. Uncle Rich isn't doing as well as he was anymore and can't do it, so Grandma is getting the family together to get it done. And Aunt Terri is about the only family's house that I can go to and be on call. She is only about 20 minutes from the hospital. So, I thought well, why not. Courtney has missed her class for a few weeks because Uncle Rich being in the hospital, so we could get 2 things done all in 1 day.

Gotta See it to Believe it!

2008-11-23T19:58:00.003-06:00

Today, David, his mom, mom and dad and I took the kids to the JP Game Preserve. This is a picture of the look out tower we went to.

We saw a total of 51 deer.

Here is a picture of all the sand hill cranes we saw. They were talking up a storm, as well as flying all around us.

Within a hours of each other... Dad and David had the same idea to take a ride out there to look at the cranes. The last time we went there, we only saw about 16 deer, so the kids and I went thinking we would see some more deer. The deer were a bigger hit than the cranes we really went out to see. The game preserve was packed. We haven't seen that many people there in a long time. Usually it is just us out there. David and Dad were having fun looking for the BIG bucks. other people were telling us that some deer just came out of the woods, and that is where I got the decent shots of the deer. Normally, they are way too far for my camera. There was a guy out there that had this huge telescope and I thought it was a telescope, but it was for his camera. It was about a foot long! I bet he got some great shots! Another guy was getting pictures through the telescopes that were at the tower. Mine didn't come out that way. All I got was a big black screen with a small circle of light. HA!!

Spell Bowl

2008-11-22T20:07:00.005-06:00

Courtney is in Spell Bowl and they just had their 1 and only match the other day. Courtney didn't get to spell because there were like 18 kids on the team and only 8 rounds of spelling with 7 words in a round. The schools there were: Boone Grove, Kankakee Valley I and II, Knox, Oregon-Davis, South Central I and II, Hebron, Saint Peter Lutheran, Porter Lakes, us.

Some of the words that these 4th and 5th graders had to spell were: Chihuahua, fossiliferous, cumulonimbus, debonair, and phosphorescence.

Out of our category we got 2nd place.

Thanksgiving

2008-11-22T20:04:00.002-06:00

Well, with the layoffs and Surgery working short, I have to be on call for Thanksgiving this year. So, we are going to cook at home and have Davids mother over for dinner. Things have been just crazy over here with my work schedule and my other job as well as school. I'm looking forward to a 4 day weekend with no school for me and the kids and no work. Unless I get called in that is. With this lovely winter weather, we have been doing a few broken bones lately and working a average of 3-4 hours over, every few days.

Courtney

2008-11-22T20:01:00.003-06:00

Courtney was running up the stairs and she stubbed her toe. We thought it was just jammed but after she was limping for 5 days we started to wonder if it was broken. Every time we tried to pull on it or even touch it she would scream, so off to the Dr. we went for some xrays. Dr. Bejes said that she just bruised her joint and possibly tore a tendon. Now things are better with her toe and I think she is going to be my wild child!

Halloween 2008

2008-11-22T19:53:00.004-06:00

Sarah was a Jeanie thing

Courtney was some sorta spider which.

Ashley was a princess

For Halloween, we went to Knox to Trick or Treat. We saw people we knew and it was a great time.

Update

2008-11-22T19:52:00.001-06:00

I know I have neglected the blog lately, and I'm sorry. I will have everything updated by Sunday evening.

Courtney and Sarah's Demo

2008-09-27T20:17:00.005-05:00

Courtney and Sarah have been working on Thi Chi with Aunt Terri. Today was our first time watching the girls in action. The lessons are closed, so no one is able to watch until Aunt Terri thinks they are ready for a audience. I took a video of it... hope it comes through! For some reason, I can't center this video, don't know why.....

The big 1 0

2008-09-27T20:12:00.004-05:00

Today was Courtney and Sarah's 10th Birthday party. We had a great turnout despite the nasty mosquito's. They got a lot of nice things as well as some shopping money. The cake was great, as always. Aunt Phyllis always makes the best cakes. The kids played outside with the football and ran around. Hopefully they will let us sleep in tomorrow!

My First REAL Assignment

2008-09-21T18:38:00.002-05:00

Well, So far, I like the online schooling atmosphere. I have my first real paper to write and it is due in 4 weeks. This time around I am getting started sonner rather than last minute. I have to find someone in the Criminal Justice feild, interview them and write a 5 page paper about them. I really want to interview a CSI, because that is what I'm most interested in, but I'm unsure if there is one in my county. I think that is going to be the hardest part is finding the right person.

Almost Party Time!!!

2008-09-19T14:56:00.002-05:00

You know, This month has gone too fast. It seems like it was just the end of August and I had plenty of time to get ready for the party. I'm ALWAYS on top of these things! Then the Hospital went crazy. Now, the party is next weekend, and the house is no where near ready, and there are weeds in my flowers.....and I'm on call and have to teach on Tuesday and Wednesday. I wish I had another week! But if I do a bit at a time, maybe it will all come together. I don't have to worry about food this year because we are only having cake and ice cream, so there's some less work involved. My baby's will be hitting the double digits and Ashley is reading and writing! Geesh! Sam just turned 6 and Molly just turned 1. Aunt Heather is having another baby and Bryce is going to be 2! Julia is going to be 1 and I'm still only 21 years old! Where does the time go?!?!?

Anyways, tonight Sarah is spending the night at a friends and Courtney is having a friend stay with us. I'm thinking about what to do at their party with all these kids around.....

Our Sunday

2008-09-14T21:13:00.002-05:00

It rained all day today, as most of you know. Our gutters were overflowing. So, we all stayed in our pj's and watched Finding Nemo, and Cheaper by the Dozen 2. We also had a pizza dinner, and just were lazy all day. Of course, I had to do laundry, and Dad had a flood in his basement. So far, we have nothing in our basement, thank God! Courtney is liking the fact that she has to take baths because of her cast. We did get a waterproof cast, but I don't want to let her get it too wet yet. The padding underneath is the part that can't get wet, because it won't dry, and then it will start to rot her skin. So, Dr. Fielder gave her a waterproof padding that drys in 2 hours, and her didn't even charge us. Well, there is 1 perk of working with a Orthopedic Surgeon! We all have work and school Monday, so, I hope the rain stops long enough for us to get where we need to be and get home. I still hate driving in the rain, but I love to be home in it!

For Grandma.....

2008-09-14T07:18:00.002-05:00

All kids have growth plates in the arms and legs. it its the part next to the wrist that new bone grows to make the arms longer and the legs taller. Sometimes the break is so bad that the kid will have problems with making new bone, but Courtney just has a small crack, and this cast is just to protect it from further damage. We didn't even take her to the doctor, for 4 days because it wasn't disfigured, and she could move it, so we thought it was just sprained. But this kind of fracture is very common in kids, though. So, she gets her cast off on October 14th.

Courtney's Accident.....

2008-09-12T19:05:00.002-05:00

Courtney fell in Gym Class last Friday. We took her to the doctor and had some X Rays done and..... She has a crack in her growth plate. So, Now she is sporting a light blue cast with purple stripes.

The kids!

2008-09-06T20:44:00.003-05:00

Courtney's Face Painting

The girls dancing.

Sarah wanted her's like that, and when it was done... She didn't like it. That's Sarah for you!

Kersting's MDA Ride. Motorcycles, Music, and Memories

2008-09-06T20:30:00.003-05:00

Tonight, we went to Kersting's Harley Davidson Annual MDA Memorial Party. There was face painting, live local bands and booths, as well as a moon walk and tons of very nice bikes. The kids' principal had his band there, Category Five, so the kids wanted to go and listen to him sing. Courtney was out there dancing all by herself. We saw some friends there and had some good "fair food".

We went into the Museum and looked at the old bikes, and the girls wanted to take pictures with the statues.

All of the sudden, there was this para sailor overhead. He landed and let the kids check out his machine. They all thought it was so cool!

This is the Elementary Principal, Mr. McBride.

Could you imagine a principal this cool?! He even sang some of the songs the kids wanted to hear. They were rockin! The girls were singing songs from the 70's and 80's. We did have a great time even though the mosquitoes were about to carry us away!

Shopping results.

2008-08-31T14:34:00.002-05:00

Well, I took the girls to this new store called Justice Just for girls in Valparaiso. It is a very nice store. The girls got some new earrings and Ashley got her headbands. They wanted to buy clothes there, but I'm making them wait to go there until after their birthday party. While we were in JC Penny, Sarah was so glad to go to her store. We were in the fitting room and Sarah came out with the first pair of pants and she tells me See, this store is the only store that has clothes that fit me. Geesh, so picky, these days. Anyways, we got Ashley 4 outfits and Sarah 4 pants. That should be good for now. But I did forget to get poor David some jeans. You know, it was a girl day with my friend and we went to a few stores looking at different things and I just forgot all about him until I was almost home. I'll just have to go another day, I guess.

Family cookoff!

2008-08-31T14:32:00.002-05:00

O.K. Guys, I'm done with the website, so here it is: http://chi-chi-cup.weebly.com

So let me know what you guys think! It was fun and we need to get some written rules for next year.

Shopping Day!

2008-08-30T07:52:00.002-05:00

Well, nothing new has been going on around here. Today, we are meeting my friend Tracy from work, and her kids for lunch and school clothes shopping. The plan is to go to JC Penny in Valparaiso. The kids are doing well in school, Ashley is working on reading. The girls have a Indian project they are working on. David is working in Valparaiso, now. No more long drives to Munster! My Ameriplan Business is going well, I have enrolled a few members this month. I have been planning Courtney and Sarah's Birthday. I'm thinking that Molly is in heat. I noticed a bit of blood after she got up, and she has been licking more. I'm a bit nervous about this whole thing.

The date is set.....

2008-08-24T19:06:00.002-05:00

Well, guys, the date is set for Courtney and Sarah's 10th Birthday party. September 27th at 2pm at our house. I can still remember the day I had those two sweeties.... as well as the huge line of family and friends who came. My 2 best guy friends actually left in the middle of class telling their professor that their girl friend went into labor with their baby. Good thing they weren't in the same class! But they made it from West Laf.

Those were the days when they girls were little lumps.... Trying to figure out how in the world was I to feed 2 people at 1 time as well as getting it done! Packing the entire house just to go to the store, those days when I would just sit and watch them sleep, wondering what they were going to be when the got older. Showering by myself and that baby smell! And now. They want to go and hunt with David this year, they are learning a bit about cooking, and They are taking Thi Chi classes with aunt terry, Courtney getting 2nd place in Agility with Sammy, and Sarah wants to be in Spell bowl. Boy has time went by fast! All this talk is making me feel a bit on the old side.

Been soooo long!

2008-08-20T17:26:00.002-05:00

Sorry it has been so long since I have posted. This have been crazy over here, between school starting, the classes that Aunt Terri is teaching the girls and work. I have worked the last 12 days in a row. Between days, call, and midnights, as well as some doubles. They are really short staffed on the floor and ICU so I have been picking up hours for bonus pay of course. Some of it last week was the big OT!!! Any Overtime less than 10 hours a pay period is going to give a great check. After 10 hours stinking Uncle Sam gets most of it. Gotta get the kids some new clothes!!!!! I wish they would stop growing out of everything. Dog training is going to start up in September. Sarah doesn't want to do it but Courtney does. So that is what is going on over here. Nothing as fun as Jessica's life that is for sure! Gotta run and get ready for midnights tonight!

School Starts Today!

2008-08-13T15:23:00.003-05:00

It is hard to believe that my girls are already back to school. Courtney and Sarah are in 4th grade and Ashley is in 1st. Courtney's teacher is related to David's best friend. He actually put tile in her basement! So far, they love school, and Ashley has spelling words! I just can't believe that she is so big! All the kids were ready to go to school at 6a.m. They don't have to be there until 7:15 a.m. It was very hard to stall for a hour when they have book bags on and shoes on and lunches made. I picked them up from school today, also. They said that they had a great day. They had some old friends in their classes and Courtney has a new student in her class. Courtney didn't remember where she was from.

Here's the link!

2008-08-10T08:17:00.001-05:00

Sorry guys, Forgot the link!

Click here

HELP ME CHOOSE!!!!!

2008-08-09T18:32:00.003-05:00

I have always wanted to do this with my sweet doggies. And now I need to pick a pose. Please go to this link, and on that page, you will see a bunch of pictures of kids and their dogs. Sarah, Courtney and the dogs are in the middle of the page. You can click on the picture to make it bigger. and the pictures will NOT have the stars on them when they get developed. When you click on the picture to get it bigger, there is a photo number at the bottom of the picture. I am wanting to get 1 of Sarah and Molly, 1 of Courtney and Sam, and 1 of the 4 of them. I'm thinking pose #'s 0046, 0048, or 0052, and then 0056 or 0059. Let me know what you guys think. These are very expensive. The cheapest package is 25.00 for 1 5x7 and 4 wallets. Just 1 5x7 if 17.00. So, I'm thinking of getting the 25.00 package for each kid and then having Aunt Heather make copies for me. From what I was told, anyone can order off line, so if someone wanted to order, all you have to do if register with a email and password, and you are good to go.

The storm.....

2008-08-09T12:51:00.002-05:00

The kids were all in bed sleepin and David and I were watching t.v. We had no clue that there was a storm coming. Then I get my text message on my cell phone from the t.v. station. I get text messages about the weather, Amber alerts and storm warnings from channel 16 news in South Bend. I got that text, and then it seemed as if everything hit all at once. David had to turn the channel to the news and then the Tornado siren went off in town. So, now it is around 10pm and we get all the kids and go to the basement. Here we are listening to the rain and thunder, the kids and Molly are on me and all I wanted to do was go upstairs and see what things looked like. I love storms and thunder. Sam was wondering up and down stairs looking at the 4 of us. He seemed to be thinking why are you guys on the floor? David was wondering around watching things and our neighbors power went out. Weird thing about the power out here. Mom and Dad and our neighbors seem to be on 1 box and our side of the road and their neighbors are on another. So all our power did was flicker VERY slowly, like it was on a dimmer. After about a hour we got to come upstairs, and then we had the kids in our room on the floor. Little legs and arms were everywhere and it was hard to walk through the room! LOL!!! Sam was in a huf because a kid was in his spot on our floor, so he had to squeeze in there also. The next day, things weren't bad, some limbs down, but nothing like my Grandparents in Griffith had.

High Prescription costs!

2008-08-06T15:19:00.002-05:00

If you or anyone you know has Prescriptions that your insurance DOES NOT cover, then read on.

I know that most of you that are reading this are shaking your head right now.
BUT: for the month of August, I am offering a FREE prescription card good for 1 year. I went to the HealthTrans website to look up our prescriptions. My birth control has never been covered because it is a injectable drug. I pay $55.00 every 3 months. I looked it up on the HealthTrans site and I can get it for $39.03. The rest of the meds David and I take our insurance covers better. Almost $20.00 savings. Now, if a free card is too expensive for you to try and see what Ameriplan can do for you, then stop reading.

Feel free to price your meds by clicking here.

I do not get a commission for enrolling customers in the FREE Prescription card, so there is nothing for you to lose, or me to gain. I am doing this for people to save money and see that Ameriplan DOES work. Feel free to email me and I will get you enrolled in the Ameriplan FREE Rx card. Everyone in your household can use this card, even though only the enrolled member is listed on the card. As well as people who live with you who are NOT related to you.

So, Email me at jennifer@ameriplan.net with this information....

First, last name and middle initial
Address, day and evening phone, as well as a email address.

Here's the scoop!

2008-08-03T21:13:00.001-05:00

Start reading from the first State Fair post to get things in the right order. I have more pictures that Jenny Lee took so they will come later! Happy Reading!

The ride home!

2008-08-03T21:01:00.004-05:00

The ride home seems longer than the ride there. I DID get gas for 3.68 a gallon though! We started going the wrong way in the highway. It only lasted about 15 minutes though.

Ashley looking out the window wondering how long till we get home.

For some reason Sam sat with the girls. He is so weird! He was sniffing out the window getting doggie nose prints ALL over the window. It WAS cute though!

The girls love Sammy!

Ashley just started crying out of the blue. Finally we got the story... She wanted her Daddy NOW. We were only a 1/2 hour away from the hotel.

I told Ash if she stopped crying that we could call Daddy.

State Fair pics cont.....

2008-08-03T20:52:00.004-05:00

More sleepy kids.

Ashley taking my picture as I'm taking hers.

The funniest thing happened, while we were at the pool. This lady and a bunch of other people came into the hotel. We found out that this was her sweet 16 party at the hotel. The girls went to the room and changed and wanted to take a picture with her. So, we went to the ballroom and asked to take a picture with her.

More pics State Fair 2008

2008-08-03T20:35:00.004-05:00

There was a indoor pool we went to to relax after the long day at the fair.

Just messing around in the room.

I don't know who took this picture, because I found it on my camera.

This is at the hotel and the other dog is Noah. We were letting the dogs run loose and play fetch with a bone. They loved it. Sam and Molly were really great at the hotel. They went outside off leash and they never ran away or went to the people coming and going. They came when I called and everything. Nothing happened in the room. No peeing pooping, or chewing.

Ashley was very sleepy the first night. Doesn't she look so sweet!

More State Fair 2008

2008-08-03T20:25:00.004-05:00

The kids had to wait till 12:45 to show the dogs. So, this is what they did to pass the time.

Sarah and Jenny Lee with sweet Molly.

This is the girls doing the sit/down part of the competition.

This is when they did the long down/stay.

STATE FAIR 2008

2008-08-03T20:01:00.004-05:00

We left Thursday evening for the State Fair. It was a long ride with the dogs and the kids. After a 2 hour ride, we came up on some construction near the hotel. Jenny Lee went with us and we both couldn't find the turn in in the dark. After we went around the detour and still couldn't get into the hotel, we decided to go through the road block. After a while, there were these huge pipes in the road. So, we turned around and after another 15 minutes we got into the parking lot. We unload everything and get to the front desk and check in, the guy tells us it would be better to drive around back. Now, we have 5 people, 2 suitcases, 2 dogs and a cooler. Everyones arms were full. So, we go back out to the van and reload everything we just took out 5 minutes before.

This is our first night at the hotel.

This was the area for our County to set up. We had a good sized area with tables set up for lunch. There WAS a concession stand set up. Let me tell you... Thank GOD we brought our own water! A plain bottle of water (16 oz) was $3.00!!! One of those fair pretzels you get was $3.50. There were booths with water bowls, brushes, leads, collars, treats, and arm bands. There was another booth called: Dog gone good braids, where people would braid your hair for show.

Before your dog can go into the building, they have to have a Vet check them out. As well as see the vet forms. Vet check started at 8 am. We got there at 7am and this was the line. It went farther behind the picture also. People got there almost 2 hours BEFORE Vet checks start to get in first. The Vet had to do a real good check on Molly to make Sure she wasn't starting to go into heat. The girls were in line almost 2 hours and there were tons of people behind us!

This is the girls waiting to go through the line.

Getting ready to go!!!

2008-07-30T12:39:00.002-05:00

Today, I am getting the things we need together to go to the State Fair. I spent almost a half hour cleaning the van so we have room for everything. I almost wish we had a pull behind very small trailer. I have to get the Kennels, a cooler and a suitcase, in the van as well as 3 kids and 2 dogs. The good thing is I can take out 2 seats to make more room. I am going to bring the camera as well as the charger. So, when we get back, I'll have pictures to post! Sarah is STILL not sure if she wants to show Molly, but I got things covered. She is registered, and we are bringing Molly with. Map Quest is a wonderful thing! I got all the directions we need and I found out that the zoo is 18 minutes from the hotel. My cousin Jenny Lee is going to go with us, so it'll be a girls weekend! Except for Sammy boy.

Do you remember?

2008-07-27T17:51:00.002-05:00

Do you remember those hot summer days as a kid? Wanting to make some money. Begging mom to have a Lemonade stand. Feeling sad every time a car didn't stop, and then when a car DID stop.....

Last week, Courtney and Sarah BEGGED me to have a Lemonade stand. I finally gave in and said yes. They got chairs out and a small table. Made signs and everything. Cars came and went, no sales yet. The kids yelled at every car as they passed. And then finally... someone stopped. a little old lady gave them $2.00 for 1 glass. By the look on Courtney and Sarah's faces, you would have thought this lady gave them a million bucks. A friend of David's happened to be going by the house and gave them $5.00 for a glass, our neighbor came over and bought some for his grandkids that were over. A few other people did stop and get a glass. From what I saw it was mostly older people, and no one paid a quarter. For the first day the kids made $11.00. I thought I wanted to have a stand for that kind of money! :)

Today was another story. No one stopped. We were only out for a hour though. David and I bought glasses as well as David's mom and sister. Somehow, the kids made $9.00.....

Possible a new career.....

2008-07-23T17:41:00.002-05:00

Last week, the Clinical Coordinator from Brown Mackie College came to see one of our students. She told us that she was leaving the school to stay home with her kids. We were talking about the job, and the more she talked about it, the more I was thinking of applying for it. So, my friend Tracy finally pushed me to apply. I just had my interview today. The interview went great! She was pleased that I have a Degree and not a diploma. She also was pleased that I have 8 years experience. So, Diane said that she has some other people to interview, and she will give me a call sometime next week, if they want a second interview. WISH ME LUCK!!!!!

Thank you for being a Friend.......

2008-07-23T17:21:00.002-05:00

Tuesday July 22nd,
Estelle Getty of the Golden Girls died.
She was 84. The Golden Girls was one of my favorite shows. I loved watching them every morning on Lifetime when I was pregnant with Courtney and Sarah. There wasn't much else to do though but watch T.V. Watching the show, I felt as if I was there in Miami. Even at a young age Courtney and Sarah would watch the show with me. They never asked about the jokes, they just laughed right along with me. When they were..... oh, about 3, the girls could sing the theme song word for word. It was so sweet.

I remember a episode where Dorthy was dating a guy and Sofia was liking buying non Generic items. Sofia said "If I'm gonna put a stick in my ear, I want some cotton on the end of it". Isn't that the truth! I have gotten the CVS brand of Qtips. Not the same!

I also remember her putting a curse on a man who stood her up at the alter. " From this day forward, may you and all your future generations never know true love. May you and all your offspring be sterile, may your hair never lay flat, and May your socks always slip into your shoes."

There was another episode that I loved.... The one where Dorthy brought Sofia's sister to America. I loved their fights! It was so funny! I wished I could remember some of the lines! What a HOOT!!!

Tribe of Pride Reunion

2008-07-22T19:03:00.002-05:00

Last Saturday, I picked up my friend Rachal, and we went to the reunion. There were people who I haven't seen in so long! There were so many people who looked exactly the same, but married with families. One girl I went to school with is actually a Doctor! It was such a nice time and some people haven't changed and some were almost as different as night and day. Most of my old friends were more interested in going to THIS Reunion than their own Class reunions! We exchanged numbers, and emails and hopefully we will be having another one in the future. Here are some of the pictures I took that night:

Me and Mr. Cook

Rachal, Valerie and me

Rachal, Me, Kim, Chrissy (AKA Mouth), and Kelly

Amanda, Brad, and Me

Agility Results

2008-07-18T08:46:00.002-05:00

Little Miss Courtney got Reserve Division Champion!!!!! She only had 5 faults, for stupid things like having the lead to tight. Other than that she had a great run! Sarah did well with Molly. Molly was scared of one of the jumps and she pushed it over. They had the parent Agility, so I took Sam because I had Molly with the parent Showmanship. We ran through the course in 45 seconds. Sam missed the last jump and that was it. I ended up getting 5th place! We didn't get home until 10pm. It was a late night!

More Pictures!

2008-07-13T19:32:00.005-05:00

This is Sarah with Molly

Courtney with Sam

Ashley didn't show a dog, but this is her with her adopted dog Dusty

4-H Dog Show 2008

2008-07-12T19:20:00.003-05:00

Well today was a very LONG Day. We got to the fair grounds about 9:45 a.m. We had to set up 2 kennels, water bowls, and different clothes for the kids. Lunch was at 11 a.m. We had a carry in, very nice. Showmanship was the first event. Courtney did great, she went first. (of the twins). Sarah did very well, also. neither girl placed, but they had fun. Around 2 hours later, the kids did Obedience. Sam listened well, but the judge knocked off stupid points. For example, is Courtney told Sam to sit 2 times, we lost points. Sarah lost points for having the leash to tight. I have many more pictures, but it is getting late, and I'm beat, so I thought I'd just put up the first 2 before we got started in Showmanship. More to come later!!!

Foods

2008-07-12T19:15:00.002-05:00

Tuesday, Courtney had her Foods Judging. She made Chocolate chip cookies. She was the first to be judged, and the judge was impressed that she had them all the same size. It is hard to do because the amount of chips in each cookie is different. Courtney got a Blue Star. That means, she was in the running for Grand Champion. But she didn't make it. She was proud if her cookies anyway. The Judge was very positive to all the girls, and she explained everything bad and good about everyone's cookies, as well as why she picked who she picked.

Fair Times.....

2008-07-05T10:45:00.002-05:00

O.K. I have the info on our show times. Saturday, July 12th at Noon is when we start Showmanship and then sometime after that is Obedience. Thursday, July 17th is the Agility around 7pm.

3 Done, and 4 left to go!!!

2008-06-28T18:34:00.003-05:00

For Sarah's Dog poster, she did Basic Dog Commands. Here, Courtney is showing Heal, with Sam. Notice that she is using 1 hand to control him, Molly is of-lead, and he is heeling PERFECT!!!For Courtney's Dog poster, she took pictures with the three colors of Labs. This is her with Molly girl,

and Sammy boy. I think he is smiling.....

David and I are still going back and forth about breeding Molly. We have a year and a half before she is able to breed. I have been talking to a lady from the AKC who breeds in Indy. We want to get all the info we can so we can make the right decision. There are some tests that Molly has to have before we breed her, and I want to make sure we do things right for Molly as well as for us. We want to breed her because she is a wonderful dog, and has a perfect temperament, but I can NOT be stuck with 5-6 pups left over. Because I won't take them to the pound, and I don't think David wants more pups..... LOL!!! So, I'm just doing my research now, and we'll see what happens. It is times like this where I wish we didn't get Sam fixed. He would be a perfect stud dog..... Oh well.

The Fair Scoop.....

2008-06-27T18:50:00.002-05:00

County Dog Show is July 12th. The kids will be doing Show and Obedience. The following Thursday, Don't know the date is the Agility in the evening. I have no times for anything. All I know is the kids and I will be at the Fair Grounds ALL DAY Saturday. Starke County Fair Grounds is off of RT 35. Turn of of RT 30 going towards Knox and there is a tiny green sign on the left saying Starke Co Fair Grounds and a arrow. Once you turn, you go a ways, then go past a stop sign and it is on the left side of the road. It is no where as big as Lake and Porter Grounds so it will be easy to find the Show Ring. For the State Fair we will be going down the Thursday before August 1st. and going home that Sunday.

Poster Pics.

2008-06-19T17:37:00.004-05:00

This is Down

This is Sit.

This is the Sit/Stay.

Isn't she just the cutest!!!

It's Poster Time!!!

2008-06-19T17:27:00.002-05:00

Ashley's Farm Animals Poster is done and she is ready to go. Courtney and I are still testing cookies to get the perfect cookie for fair. Both girls have to do a dog poster. Sarah is doing hers on Basic Dog Commands. We just took some pictures of Molly Sitting, Laying Down and Standing. Courtney's Poster is on the Lab Breed. Did you know that there is 2 types of Labs? The English and American..... English Labs are heavier, thicker and blockier. American Labs are tall and lanky. Learn something new every day. We also have to come up with posters for Shooting Sports. This one is going to be harder for us..... We are still on the hunt for some show clothes for fair, as well as some shoes.

Grandma G.

2008-06-17T16:21:00.001-05:00

Hey. It was last weekend. I thought it shows the date when it was posted. I posted that last Tues or Wed. I will be better with dates!

More Pictures.

2008-06-14T21:02:00.004-05:00

Here is Courtney going over the Dog Walk.

Courtney going over the A Frame.

Sarah is taking Molly over a jump.

Sarah on the sitting box with Molly. They have to sit there for 5 seconds.

4-H Fun Match Results

2008-06-14T20:29:00.005-05:00

Today we went to the 4-H Fair Grounds and did a practice match. The weather was very nice and there were tons of other dogs there. People were trimming the whiskers on the dogs faces, and styling their hair. I swear, it looked just like back stage at the AKC Dog shows. I must say, for us and the other 1st year kids, we were very under-prepared. I didn't think we would need the kennels. we did. I did bring enough water for every dog there. I didn't want to run out. We didn't have time to get show clothes, so we just wore out club clothes. I'll try to explain everything that went on in the pictures. Thank god David didn't take out the 4 chairs in the back of the van!!! We got there at 7:45 to register, and we didn't get done until almost 5pm! It was a VERY long day for the kids AND more so for Sam and Molly. They are NOT used to being on a leash let alone being tied up for 9 hours.

We just got there and I got pictures of the kids. This is Courtney before we got set up.

This is Sarah with Molly.

Here Courtney is in the ring with Sam. Working Obedience.

Sarah is giving Molly a pep talk before her turn.

Sarah getting Molly to stand/stay so the judge could touch her.

Here is Courtney in the Showmanship class. She has to sit so he will stay standing. He did not like the judge touching his feet, and he HATED for Courtney to show her his teeth.

The girls are waiting for the "Rally" event. this is where there are signs all over the sidewalk and the kids have to follow the numbered signs and do whatever is on them.

This is what the Agility course looked like.

This week....

2008-06-11T15:56:00.002-05:00

This week has been crazy. We went to the river on Sunday. Took Sammy to swim. He is so cute swimming in the river. He just loves the water, except baths! David thought to bring the fishing poles and Sarah got a bluegill. Sarah stubbed her toe and then Tuesday she got a rash. Went to the Doctor, and it was nothing, just watch it and apply some cream. People are still on vacation and that makes up short staffed. So, work has been hard this week. David has to work in Chicago a few days this week. Thank GOD he got to ride with someone!!! Our sea monkey's are still alive! they are still so small though. Kids got a hair cut the other day, and we are walking the dogs up town some. Sam is going to be such a challenge!!! He is so powerful. Well, I guess that is it for now.....

Invitation

2008-06-11T15:49:00.002-05:00

This weekend is Mint Fest Weekend. It also is Courtney and Sarah's Practice Match, for 4-H Dog Training. The Match is Saturday, at 9 a.m. at the Starke County Fair Grounds. For those of you guys who have never been there, it is off of HWY 35. Between RT 30 and RT 8. There is a tiny green sign on the left side of the road. This is going to be a all day thing, starting at 9 a.m. I have no clue about food or drinks. All I know is we have to be there at 8 a.m. and bring clothes, and water. This is going to be interesting. The girls are doing Showmanship, Obedience, Agility, and Round up. On Sunday, there is the Mint Fest and a pet parade. Saturday night, The kids Principals band, Category 5 is playing. Should be a fun weekend, as long as there is no rain.

Thanks Jessica!

2008-06-06T19:55:00.002-05:00

Thanks to my cousin Jessica, I need to share 5 random things about myself.......

1. I have always wanted to move to Texas. After being there when I was in high school, I have wanted to be there. When I went to Houston, it made me want to move there more.

2. This is no surprise to anyone, I'm sure... I have always wanted to have many (like many) dogs. Labs. I love them. I want to train them breed them, show them, and PLAY with them. They are so wonderful. Just sit and watch them REALLY watch. Molly will just walk over to Sam and pounce. They know when you need love, and they have nothing to worry about. They love you even if you forgot to get cereal at the store. The girls at work kid me that I talk more about the dogs than the kids!

3. I think I should have been born in the 50's. I LOVE Lucy Ball, Desi, Fred and Vivian. I have a collection of I love Lucy Dolls. Silly, I know. I have cards, posters, compact mirrors, and even collector stamps.

This is getting harder.....

4. The thing I HATE the most is slimy things. snot, dog puke, buggers, you name it, if it is slimy, I will be gagging. and smells. I can look at anything touch anything ( with gloves) but if it stinks I gag. and I do gag at work!

5. Thanks to good ole Aunt Becky, I am hooked on All my Children. I have been taping that show since Princess Diana Died. I remember watching it over at her house as a middle schooler in the house on the corner.....

6. Here's 1 extra for those people who just come across my blog and read it... No I did not have fertility treatments! and when baby's are dressed in pink but are bald, use your head... they are girls!

Well, there you all have it. my deep dark secrets are all over the internet. HA!!

Shooting Sports

2008-06-01T19:33:00.003-05:00

Today, was Courtney and Sarah's first lesson on how to shoot a gun. They went to the Winamac firing range and shot a 22 rifle.

This is Courtney. She shot at a few different targets that she wasn't supposed to, but her target had 3 holes!!!

Little miss Sarah thought she was supposed to hit each target with 1 shot. They were numbered 1-5, and she was going for all 5. She was the 2nd shooter and was only supposed to hit target #2. Her target had 2 holes!!

WAY TO GO GIRLS!!!!!

It's been awhile.....

2008-05-30T18:41:00.002-05:00

I know it has been awhile, but things have been crazy over here. I worked swing shift this past weekend and some of this week, and we have been catching up on cleaning. Yesterday was the kids' last day of school. Today, we started working on some 4-H projects. We had to get some pictures of farm animals for Ashley's project. Sarah is doing scrap booking. She decided to do hers on her Florida trip. Courtney is doing foods and we are going to start that this weekend. Sunday, Courtney and Sarah have their first lesson is shooting sports, as well as working on Dog training. David has been working in Rolling Prairie. His truck was down yesterday, but now we are up and running again. The big truck is still down and we need to get the brake line fixed so we can work on getting firewood for this winter. It is so much better cutting wood in nice weather. Today, we were watching Cesar and Molly was watching it with us. She was so cute! Her head was moving side to side with the dogs on the T.V. Very sweet! I think that is all the news for now, just doin laundry..... and cleaning. sounds fun huh? I have been selling on Ebay. I sold my friends wedding rings today. It is just like Christmas when things get bid on or sell! I love it! We really have nothing great to sell, but my friends are keeping my addiction going by giving me things to sell.

Ebay Link

2008-05-24T12:46:00.001-05:00

Interested in seeing what I am selling? Click the link on the left side of the page!

The last one, I Promise...

2008-05-17T18:30:00.003-05:00

Uncle Derek and Alex.

Almost Done.....

2008-05-17T18:20:00.004-05:00

The kids got to feed the Flamingo's. The one behind Uncle Derek was the one that bit him on the back.

They were everywhere!

Here is Sarah holding a real live alligator!

More pictures.....

2008-05-17T18:15:00.004-05:00

They got to go to a baseball game. They were even on the big screen for a while!

The last day they were there, they went to Jungle Gardens.

Courtney Holding a bird.

Sarah holding it ,too

More Pictures...

2008-05-17T18:06:00.003-05:00

Walking on the beach.

Playing in the waves with Maw Maw.

From what I understand, Sarah was trying to get a Lizard.

This is another view form the resort.

The Pictures are in.....

2008-05-17T17:50:00.003-05:00

These are the pictures that the kids and Dad took while they were in Florida. Some are good and some are not so good. I wasn't letting them take my camera, so they took theirs.

This the sign of the resort they stay at.

Right outside the room.

This is a funny story. There was a wedding going on right on the beach outside their room. Two guys invited the twins only to go to the weeding. So, Mom and Dad sat on the porch and watched the girls. This was them with the bride. Who we DO NOT know.

The Floida update

2008-05-14T11:11:00.002-05:00

Saturday, Ashley was feeling very lonely without her sisters. I didn't realize how much they play together and stay out of my hair. She has followed me everywhere I go, Even right into the shower! The girls got invited to someones Wedding on the beach. Dad was telling me that they met some of the wedding party the day before and then the next day they came over to invite the girls, not Dad and Mom. Good thing the Wedding took place right out of their front door. Dad said they sat on the porch and watched the girls. They get pictures with the bride and everything! This morning Courtney called me to tell Ashley Happy Birthday and she said Uncle Derek just got there, too. Talk about a blast! The house it quiet, and there is less laundry, I think I'm getting twin sick! Sarah has some homework to finish up this weekend and I'm stuck on call for the next 2 weekends. They will be home on Friday, and Thanks to Aunt Terri, I don't have to go to Chicago to get them!!!

Other than that nothing new is going around here, we have missed dog training for 2 weeks and no one is aloud to train them except the kids. We don't want to confuse Sam and Molly! Ashley has 1 more meeting and then Girl Scouts is done for the summer, Thank Goodness! I am running out of things for the girls to do!!! I purchased some advertising magnets for the back of the van. It will be interesting to see what comes of them. This week is Hospital week. We had a very scary call case the other night. David wasn't home from work yet, so, I had to take Ashley to work with me until he got home. The house super told us to get in Stat, so I made a new record, 8 minutes to the Hospital. Thank God there were no cops or deer. But our Patient lived and is doing well, thank god there. We got a new student last week, and I'm teaching her. Interesting. Talk to everyone, Soon!

Updates from Florida

2008-05-10T08:13:00.002-05:00

Well, I thought you all would like to know what the twins are doing while they are in Florida. Derek's Dad got them a Limo to take them to the air port. Dave was the driver and he had a bunch of Jolly Ranchers for the girls. And they told me that the Limo has lights inside that change colors. It's sad when my 9 year olds have been in a Limo more times than me! LOL Tom just has to spoil them sometimes though. Their first full day there, they didn't even call us. They were having too much fun looking for coral and shells. Courtney was telling me that they will be bringing home a bunch of coral for the fish tank. If we keep putting things into the tank there is not going to be any room for the fish! Friday they went body surfing. From the way they were describing it, it sounds like they are using those boards we had in school and just jumping on a wave. Then they went to this Aquarium. I guess it is for rescued or sick animals. Dad said it is nothing like the Chicago Aquarium. They compared it like going to the South Bend Zoo and then going to the Chicago Zoo. But they did see a 30 Foot Dead Squid. They did forget their cameras, so I had to overnight them to the girls. for $22.50. How crazy is that!

My Ebay Experiences.....

2008-05-08T18:11:00.002-05:00

I had some friends who are selling things on Ebay, so I thought, why not. I have listed a few things and some have sold and others have not. But it is so fun to see something sell after it has sat in the closet for years. The hardest part of selling is getting a great picture of the item. I just wish that there was more to sell. I have also been selling a few things for the girls at work. So FUN!!! I had a guy buy something from me all the way in Canada! Now, I just walk around the house thinking about what to sell. We really have nothing much to sell, because the kids stuff usually is torn or stained, but I keep looking!!!

Our Zoo Feild Trip!

2008-05-07T17:19:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, Ashley's class went to the South Bend Zoo. We had so many parents come with that my group was just me and Ashley!

This is a statue of a full grown Turtle!

I took this right through the glass. He was very close to the glass sleeping.

New Pictures.....

2008-04-27T18:19:00.003-05:00

This weekend we had my cousin Rob's daughter's birthday party. They live just a few minutes away in Knox. We had a good time, they had pony rides for the kids.

Courtney

Sarah

Ashley

Amber Alert... in ILL

2008-04-26T20:34:00.001-05:00

Check out this Amber alert.

Click here

Resting Finally!!!

2008-04-20T18:30:00.002-05:00

Well, my overtime days are over for the time being. After working for 14 days in a row, I'm done for a few weeks. I'll take my 4 days and my call and be perfectly happy for now. I have no clue how Dad and everyone else works swing shifts. It is all I can do to stay awake for a 15 minute drive let alone the 45-60 minutes Dad drives! I am so not a midnight shift person. Not to mention driving at night?!?! So, this weekend, I cleaned my trashed house, moved Molly's kennel next to the fireplace, and now my kitchen looks huge!!! I was on a cleaning spree of the things that don't get cleaned everyday. You all know what things I'm talking about... windows, the top of the fridge, I HATE getting the dust off there! LOL!!! and Getting ready for my girly party next Saturday. I took the kids clothes shipping, and we lucked out. It only rained while we were in the van. I hate driving in the rain! I also finished my book I was reading and I'm ready to get back to work! So, in 2 weeks, I worked 4 extra shifts, and got 9 hours of overtime... I think. 1 days, 2 3-11's and a 3pm to 3am shift. I also took some extra call. Didn't get called in tough. I was ashing the Doctors to just do something on the weekends, but these new Doctors don't want to work weekends. With Dr. Subba Rao, I could ask for a small case on Saturday and he was good for finding something to get us some overtime. I did get nominated for employee of the month for working up on he floor, doubt I'll get it though. You know it is funny, most of the time the people who get employee of the month are the people who never do ANY patient care! How does someone in the business office get it? Weird huh? I think it is set up, personally. Friday, I got my new camera that I got on EBAY. Love it!!! It takes very nice pictures! and it has so many functions, I may have to go to the picture expert to learn them all! Yes... You Gramps! can even edit the pictures right on the camera! How crazy! Well, I better go and get into the shower. I have been waiting for some hot water! I hate the days when we all shower!!!