Random Thoughts And Disjoined Rambles By Me....

2011-06-13T00:23:00.001-07:00

Stuff that makes me smile!!!!!

2011-06-13T00:02:00.001-07:00

This is awesome...

2010-11-11T00:53:00.000-08:00

Testing out my new voice recognition program. It is totally awesome so far is working out well. This can make blogging so much easier!

2010-09-29T10:28:00.001-07:00

still working on a post but alas, life gets in the way... :)

Brendan is a Freshman...and going to Homecoming!!!

Whitlee is in 1st grade and poised to take over the world!

Update...

2010-06-21T00:59:00.001-07:00

Working on a big update...we've been busy as usual...big things happening with Brendan and Whitlee.

Another one bites the dust!!!

2010-05-20T19:45:00.001-07:00

Whitlee Jane just lost her second tooth!!!! She is so excited!!!!

Rain...part 2

2010-05-20T15:52:00.001-07:00

Dear Rain ,

You SUCK!!! You are killin me!!!!! Another game called!

Baseball...

2010-05-20T11:58:00.001-07:00

Rain rain go away you are already the reason the game was called the otherday!!!! Play BALL!!!!

2010-05-13T19:53:00.000-07:00

So, Brendan is on the Varsity (8th Grade) baseball team --- GO SPARTANS!!! They played their first game on Tuesday -- I'm not sure what was going on with the boys but the lacked the desire to play. Not all of them but most of them. Today was the second game but the first home game. They played Rainier Middle School (Note: I am not a fan of the coach!) - it was a rough game. It was the bottom of the 7th Rainier was ahead 6-2. Brendan was 0-1. There had been a play in the field the previous inning that he was still pissed about -- It didn't matter that a human wouldn't have been able to make the play all he was concerned was that he didn't! Silly BOY! Anyhow, Brendan was to be 3rd at bat.....3rd at bat...Yikes..all I could hope was that he didn't make the 3rd out... Brendan approached home plate -- I could tell he was MAD. 1st pitch thrown....ball, 2nd pitch strike....HE WAS MAD!! 3rd pitch - it was low - he swung - I cringed - BAM!!! He hit the ball at the tip of his bat.

At 1st Base with Colby (He played against him in Little League)
Running to 2nd

Waiting.....Waiting.....Waiting......(I love the look on his face)

Foul Ball!!!

And this is the last picture I have because a ball was hit and Brendan was RUNNING!!! He scored making it 4-6. His team won...bottom of the 7th the final was 7-6 :) I was a great day for baseball!!!!

2010-05-07T15:23:00.001-07:00

Getting ready to get Brendan and go to Nickelback!!!

2010-05-07T15:22:00.001-07:00

Test test test!!!

A Week In The Life....

2010-04-19T14:31:00.000-07:00

This will be the 3rd year I have participated in this -- a simple creative concept - for one week - 7 days you capture your life - through the lense of a camera, journaling, and any bits and pieces you may have! I find this AWESOME!!! I can usually be found with camera in hand (or in purse) most everyday anyhow - the first year I participated is SLIM...I was unsure of what I should do. I found myself picking and choosing what I would document. Why?? I don't have a clue!!! Maybe, my life is boring....I no longer have a glamourous job...I'm a mom ~ I drive my mini-van, I take my (at that time) kid to school...I run errands...If I am being honest I'd LOVE to redo that year....There are SO many things I'd add!!!

Last year, a bit more involved -- still trying to "find" my way in this process. Included more but I don't think enough.....

This year...I AM KICKING BUTT and taking names!!!! I am roughly 8 hours into it and I have taken 157 pictures (can you say random). AND, I have gotten 2 pieces of journaling completed. According to my "plan" I am doing about 4 12X12 layouts per day -- lots of pictures and "stuff", some journaling and then one detailed section of journaling.....I am also keeping track of the music I hear in my daily "car runs" I am calling it My Soundtrack To My 2010 Week In The Life. While I don't know if I'll post each day my detailed journaling here is my subject for today -- I LOVE IT :)

Hello, My Love...

It seems like we haven’t seen each other for a million years...yet, it has only been 24 hours. Usually you hear me say “Grande” please - Then there are those days that I am lagging and I say with conviction “Upsize my Grande to VENTE, darkish and yummy!!”

My deep and only slightly wavering love for you started about 1982 (for those of you keeping track that is 28 years ago - simply, impossible since I am only 24). Sometimes, for short periods of time and with tears in my eyes I have had to bid you adieu. And while I am oh so very sad at the time - there is always the knowledge that at the first chance, I would go running back to you...and there you would be waiting, welcoming, warm and yummy with open arms (hypothetically speaking of course because I am not crazy I know you don’t actually have arms!).

We have a specific routine you and I and while I like you simply detest you in your purest form - My love for you is unending for you in your many reincarnations. I love you HOT - yet, not hot each morning…I arrive at one of the many places my family lovingly refers to as my dealer. Most days I simply go for the normal - I am a predictable kind of girl!! Also, most times I don’t even have to tell them what I want. Every once in a while there is a newbie - I must remember to tell them ever so gently in that strange and foreign language those of us that love you speak. I say “Grande, Pike Place Roast Drip, Please leave about an inch at the top”…On occasion - when I am not paying attention I can be heard saying “Please leave an inch at the bottom”…Can you picture the looks I get. Oh, how I wish I loved you like that but, alas as much as I love you (and I do) I simply am NOT a fan. I do not like you in a box, and I do not like you with a fox!! I am simply not a fan of your taste…Crrrazy right!! I love you poured over a nice cup of ice - still with space (at the top). Lovingly, you and I start our morning trek…we walk over to what I refer to as the counter of love. As if on auto-pilot the following happens…One napkin laid on the counter, Lid removed as your sweet smelling aroma raises to meet me, insert one stir stick, tear open 3 (if I am feeling wild I make it 4) packages of Splenda. They have yet to carry Stevia and I usually forget to throw it in my purse. I watch the granules’ dissolve my joy begins to bubble we are oh so close to being done. Now, comes the creamer - I am a creature of habit. In high school, I was introduced to half-and-half creamer. Until then I had NO IDEA that it even existed (how is that)…yet, one more thing I have to thank Mima for. With much care I pour in the half and half…I don’t go crazy I don’t know exactly how much I put in…I do however know what I am looking for a sweet luscious color I find hard to describe - oh, but I know you and I love you!!! Sweetly, I whisper “Hello, handsome” you well, you can’t answer can you but in our relationship, we don’t need words! You’ve been waiting for me…I appreciate you so. As we walk, back to the car, I fool myself into thinking you aren’t searing tongue burning hot - I look to you for some kind of confirmation. Today, my hot and yummy have they poured you the perfect temperature so I don’t have to put our reunion off any longer. You tease me… Maaaybe… Each day I think you might be right. I bring the lid to my mouth - the opening beckons… Try me I swear I can hear you say. Each day I believe you - that first sip you hit the tip of my tongue…LIAR! I want to scream. It is a wonder I have any taste buds on the tip of my tongue. I place you lovingly in the drink holder. Yes, it’s your special place. Now, the waiting begins 7-10 minutes to be exact. Like a little bit of yummy goodness you have reached the perfect temperature for this creature of habit. I delight in our meeting again, I enjoy your flavor, I am SO happy to have you. There will always be occasions that I venture to a new taste..Dark (make mine white please) Chocolate Cherry, White Chocolate Zipper doodle (always always iced), White Chocolate Mocha and on occasion…Carrot Cake or S’more (THANKS BENS!!!). Oh, and if I am in Bonney Lake…White Coffee at Ben’s - you simply can’t beat it!!

So, my love it’s time for us to part, be strong, it’s not forever, tomorrow will be here soon and once again you will be waiting…

2010-04-11T20:00:00.001-07:00

At the Hard Rock in Seattle with the birthday boy!!! It's been a great weekend!!!

2010-03-22T21:26:00.001-07:00

Super fun time tonight learning to metal stamp!!!!

2010-03-15T11:47:00.001-07:00

Cleaning house...doing laundry.....AND TAXES!!!!! such fun!!!!

how do I post about this and not sound like a bat-shit crazed mother????

2010-03-15T00:09:00.000-07:00

In almost 14 years as a parent I have learned many lessons -- I've learned to determine what a I'm tired cry is vs. an I'm hungry cry vs. an I'm wet cry. I've learned to always carry kleenex and handiwipes in my purse at all times. I've learned that lifesavers can calm a fussy kiddo. I've learned that you simply cannot reason with a 2, 5, 6, 9, 12, 13 and I suspect 14 year old. I have learned to teach my children to say "Yes, Mam" and "No, Mam" to say "Yes, please" and "No, thank you" -- I've taught them to think of others. I've taught them to be proud of their accomplishments. I've taught them to strive for the best because they are worthy and they deserve the best. I have cheered when they have excelled and hugged and cried with them when things haven't gone their way. I've taught them that if you try your very best then you will succeed - and to be proud of the attempt.

I've taught them other things also -- I've taught them that it's Ok to eat dinner for breakfast, that laughing even when you think you shouldn't is ok, I've taught them to sing at the top of their lungs and enjoy every second of it, I have kissed there boo boo's and given a firm hand where one is needed. I am a PROUD mother -- My children will never wonder or doubt for one single fraction of a second if they are loved, wanted or valued. My children are my most cherished accomplishment -- they are truly the reason I live and breathe -- they are the reason I put one foot in front of the other each and every day. They know that my focus is them and that I will help them be the best people that they can be. I expect great things from them and I know that they will do them. They are amazing beings these two persons Jeff and I brought into this world. They will do amazing things and I look forward to seeing what they are!!!

All this being said I am a FIERCE protector of my children -- a parent that isn't drives me insane! I've been in Mommy Bear mode only a couple of times in 14 years..... Wednesday, March 3rd gave me a lesson in Mommy hood -- It put me in yet another Mommy Bear situation that I'd hoped I'd never be in -- Yet, we have come out of the situation wiser for it.

Before you read any further know this -- while this is my blog and I am free to post ANYTHING I choose - I blog daily - not all blogs are published - well, because frankly it's no ones' business!!! I am actually going to post this blog -- because well I have spoken to Brendan about it and he said he didn't mind if I posted it or not. See, my children understand that as their parent I value their opinion.

Brendan attends 8th grade - his school has a "no hat" policy -- translation -- From the hours of 7:15 to 2:15 YOU DON'T WEAR A HAT AT SCHOOL. This has never been an issue -- Brendan was going to go to a buddy's house -- they were going to work out and then play some baseball. Jeff was picking him up after work -- I was pretty sick (thanks family for sharing) -- I decided to take a nap -- Whitlee was with me -- She was so excited she got to watch extra tv -- I CRASHED....I woke to the phone ringing -- it was the Auburn School District -- why were they calling??? probably nothing -- Brendan had texted me saying he was on his way to his buddy's and Whitlee was next to me...I ignored it.........The phone rang again.......It was the Auburn School District ----- I ignored it -----------then my cell phone rang.............it was the Auburn School District ----- I JOLTED up -- why would they be calling me???? Whitlee was with me and Brendan was on his way to his buddy's house. It was Sydney on the phone -- she is the most amazing nurse!!!! She was the school nurse when Brendan went to Evergreen Heights and had all his migraine issues -- she is AWESOME!!!! She says the words that literally make my heart stop "Stephanie, It's Sydney - I have Brendan in the nurses office - he has been assaulted - I need you to come to the school -- please drive carefully." Well, that's all I vaguely remember her saying -- there was a lot of buzzing happening in my head. Now, here is a new fun fact where our new van is concerned -- if your emergency brake is engaged and you put your van in gear....back up and then put it into drive....all sorts of bells start going off --- and your van doesn't go very fast even if you have the peddle pushed all the way to the floor. I imagine Steven has a better memory of my call -- all I remember is screaming Brendan has been hurt get to the school -- I tried not to run every single freaking red light I encountered -- It seemed to take an eternity to get 2 miles -- Steven I have to say makes good time! I'd hate to come up against him when he is in UNCLE mode -- My phone rang and I remember hearing Steven say Breathe -- don't run any lights getting here -- I'm here and Brendan is OK. I know I called Jeff about a million times -- when in reality it was probably 3 or 4 (I think). When talking to Steven I am wondering where his buddy's are --- they were suppose to be with them -- I'm thinking if someone jumped Brendan and those boys took off I was going to have a serious conversation with their parents!! I am screaming at Steven -- WHERE ARE XXXXXXX AND XXXXXXX?? Steven said there were 2 boys in the nurses office with Brendan -- he asked the nurse who they were she couldn't tell him (privacy rules and all) -- So, Steven looks directly at them and said "You better tell me your names" -- I breathed a sigh of relief as they were Brendan's buds :) They didn't leave his side, they totally have his back. I got to the school and went running into the office - As Steven had determined that Brendan was OK he had gone from YOU DON'T MESS WITH MY NEPHEW mode to "Uncle Steven" -- when I walked into the nurses office I hear Steven say "Don't worry Brendan that eye will uncross eventually" (insert hee hee hee here!). As any parent I gave Brendan the once over - and looked to Sydney for confirmation he was OK -- I called Jeff to let him know Brendan was fine -- called Brendan's Dr. to make sure we could get in and get him checked once we were done with the police.

In addition to Brendan there were 3 other eye witnesses -- his 2 friends and his history teacher. All 3 were totally willing to give statements and testify if necessary. From what I understand this is what happened......The last bell rang -- Brendan went to his locker and got his stuff -- texted me to let me know he was on his way to his friends -- put his hat on and the boys headed out - they had to walk a couple of girls to the bus. From behind a kid (later we find out he is a 10th grader) came up behind him and took his hat right off his head. Now, Brendan didn't know the kid - what he knew was that the kid took his hat. He (Brendan) didn't say anything - but walked up to the kid and took the hat out of the kids hand. The kid (a 10th grader currently suspended from an alternative school) turned and closed fist punched Brendan squarely on his left cheek. (it's here I'd like to note for only the 2nd time since Brendan was born I saw COMPLETELY RED - Like when Auntie Sue says RED DOUBLE). Brendan is assuring me he is ok but his face and head hurt - I stepped outside the nurses office to have a word with his teacher -- I really wanted to know what was going on. Evidently, Brendan took the complete punch -- he didn't go down, he didn't even sway. He waved off his buddies and didn't punch the kid back. Now, Brendan may look like a mild mannered kid...someone who couldn't hurt a fly....if you believe that you couldn't be more wrong -- Brendan is more than capable of defending himself and we have taught him don't go looking for trouble but if it finds you do not hit first...that being said if someone hits you you are fully entitled to defend yourself and hit back BUT, if you do make it count and end it! (later when I asked him why he didn't hit him back he said all he could think of was that he was still on school grounds and if he hit the guy back he would get in trouble). While I am checking over Brendan the principal and vice principal are chasing after the kid and his brother who is a 7th grader at Brendan's school. They had the brothers -- the police had arrived -- it's time to ID the kid......Now, the kids (the brothers) didn't deny the assault occurred -- seriously, they didn't -- the 7th grader was telling the police that he was the one who punched Brendan -- and the reason was because Brendan had been bullying him!!! When the Principal and Vice Principal heard this they both laughed -- LOUDLY!!!! Being a bully and Brendan do not go together!!!! The nice police officer who was a member of the swat team took Brendan and the 3 other witnesses down to ID the kid. The officer asked if I was interested in going down with them -- he assured me that Brendan would be totally safe. I didn't think that it was a good idea for me to get a look at this kid -- in hindsight part of my wants to know what he looks like so that in my Bat-shit crazy mommy moments I have a face to put on the piece of crap I am kicking the shit out of!!! I stayed at the school with the Vice Principal -- while we were waiting for them to come back we talked about Brendan's safety at the school. It was during this time I realized I was sitting in the Vice Principal's office IN MY PAJAMAS!!! with no bra and half of my hair was sticking straight up!!! I looked at the Vice Principal and said "I bet this is a side of me you thought you'd never see huh" -- yeah, cause when I am there every week volunteering I am SO NOT in my PJ'S!!!!! :) To his credit he just smiled and said "I wasn't going to even mention it!!!" What a guy!!! The police officer brought everyone back and informed me that both brothers were being arrested for strong armed robbery and felonious assault - which carries a term of 20 years. In addition to those charges the younger brother was also being arrested for hindering a police investigation (because he tried to take the blame) - the kid that hit Brendan was already suspended from his alternative school -- so there would be other charges and penalties involved for him. I was worried about Brendan being safe -- these boys were arrested because of what happened to Brendan -the police officer said that because of their age the brothers wouldn't have anger towards Brendan - they would be mad at the school and the police (because of the authority). For one split second I wondered out loud "Where the hell were these kids parents????" Not involved was the reply I got -- the 7th grader has had issues at the school.....Brendan gave his statement and I rushed him to the Dr. --- the Dr. checked him over -- said he was good -- said he'd most probably have a migraine and told me that once the adrenaline left his body he was going to be MAD!! I didn't think it would happen but once he ate his pizza and calmed down he was PISSED -- I won't go into the details but I will say that I've learned that I can bear hug a thrashing teen for 45 minutes.

Brendan missed 2 days of school due to his migraine - he posted on facebook that night - he and I have talked a lot about what happened -- why would someone do this??? Sadly, at 13 he learned that some parents don't care what happens to their kids. He learned that he can take a hit like a champ, he learned what a bat-shit crazy mom who protects her kid looks like, he learned that while he lives in a safe environment there are people who don't, he learned how quickly his mom and Uncle Steve can revert to ghetto mode when needed, he learned what friendship is, he learned that doing the right thing is the right thing, he learned that if you get punched in the face your mom will buy you Pizza Hut Pepperoni Stuffed Crust Pizza, he learned that his parents will ALWAYS be there for him, protecting and guiding him, he learned that in the face of a crisis he is able to think with a sound mind, he learned that in the grand scheme of things while getting punched in the face SUCKED it could have been so much worse and he learned that anger is not the way. He learned other things but that is his story -- maybe one day he'll tell it - maybe he won't but that is up to him..............It doesn't matter if he does or if he doesn't I've got his back.....When he was 8, when he is 13, when he is....well, it doesn't matter I will ALWAYS have his back -- I am proud of you son! You are an amazing young man - I am glad and I am grateful that I am a part of your life.......YOU SO TOTALLY ROCK!!!!

My Dearest Whitlee Jane

2010-02-27T23:56:00.000-08:00

Well, today is the day -- you woke up SO excited!!! Grinning and singing.

Today you turned 6 ~ you informed me that you have to use 2 hands to make six!!! Six Mommy, and next I'll be 7. I tried so hard to swallow the lump that was in my throat - 6 years old - it seems like just yesterday you entered our lives. You have brought such joy and happiness!! I've never known a child who wakes up with the giggles!!! Brendan was always so happy when he woke up but you have full body giggles :)

I'm not quite sure how you managed to eat your breakfast -- PINK pancakes please with whip cream and sprinkles :)

We were off and running -- so much to do -- after all we were hosting a crafting tea party for 25 kids and 20 or so adults....would we survive? And WHERE THE HELL IS THE TOP TO MY FOOD PROCESSOR!!! I have guac to make for goodness sake!!! :)

You were the cruise director -- you knew exactly where you wanted everything to be -- Presents go here, crafts go here, music here......Daddy, Brendan, Aunt Ginger all helping to get things in place -- Grandpa and Abuela showed up and jumped right in to help -- Your friends started to arrive....oohs and Hi's were all around...there was lots and lots of giggling, laughing and chasing...........crafts all around!!! Make a beautiful hat, Make a scrapbook, Have a makeover.... it is so much fun to see kids having a blast. Many times I was asked "how do I do this?" or "Can I add this?" My response was whatever you want sweetie -- the expression on the kiddos faces when they realized that it was their choice was PRICELESS.

Here is Whitlee Jane -- with her party hat on making her scrapbook!!

Here she is showing her scrapbook

Soon it was time to eat -- Whitlee's menu: Chili cheese dip, Sweet and sour meatballs, Guac, chips and Cherry Limeade Punch. The kids drank their "tea" from real china tea cups. Notice Whitlee's my twin doll next to her -- the dress and bow the doll is wearing was a gift from Grandma and Grandpa -- Whitlee has the exact matching outfit -- she has decided she is going to wear the dress at Easter.

We had Whitlee stand on a chair so we could sing her Happy Birthday --- this smile -- this is the smile she had on her face ALL day!!!

And to top it off -- there was a pinata!!!! The kids hit the crap out of that thing and it WOULDN'T BREAK!!! finally I ripped that sucker open and threw the candy in the air -- THE KIDS LOVED IT :)

When we were driving home -- you said this was the BEST BIRTHDAY you had ever had!!!! and you were still grinning!!!!

Happy Birthday my sweet baby girl!! I hope the happiness you felt today is a feeling you will always always have -

3 sleeps.............

2010-02-24T10:38:00.001-08:00

Just when I think she can't get any more excited about her birthday --- today when she opened her eyes she SCREAMED --- 3 MORE SLEEPS UNTIL I AM 6!!!!!!

Today, we will be making more GIANT cupcakes and tutus.............and starting to pack up stuff for the party!!!! YIKES!!!! I may not sleep until Sunday!!!!!

I hope that her party lives up to what she is hoping it will be.............................

I will be posting photos of Steven wearing his tutu!!!! Whitlee is so excited!!!

5 sleeps............

2010-02-22T20:34:00.000-08:00

and she will be 6 -- REALLY I'm not kidding 6 years old ~ where has the time gone

she is reading now -- starter words but words none the less

she can count by herself to 175 without making any mistakes

she can count to 15 in Spanish by herself

she LOVES Junie B. Jones books.....

She HATES mushrooms

she loves pink

my baby is going to be 6 years old ~~ I wish Mima was alive ~~ I miss her so much these days ~~ Whitlee would have loved the crap out of her and vice versa ~~ we are gearing up ~~ a birthday party ~~ she has invited her ENTIRE class ~~ 26 5 year olds ~~ I have lost my mind :) We are having a tea party birthday ~~ it is going to be AWESOME!!!! There will be Tutu's all around (including the AWESOME Uncle Steve) She can't wait!!!

Did I mention she is in a "Band" -- I love this girl of mine

You spin me....

2010-02-06T20:28:00.000-08:00

right round baby right round!!!!

So, the last post was on Jan. 22 -- Brendan my sweet boy had mono....well actually he still HAS mono....he spent a week at home -- literally all he did was sleep -- I'll have to see if I can find the picture but he was just sitting on the couch with his headphones on ..... they weren't plugged in to ANYTHING!!! He is still tired but went back to school this past week. On Friday he came home and took at 4 hour nap!!

2010-01-22T11:48:00.001-08:00

Fun fact: with Mono you can still have it when you test negative for it!!!!...NICE!!!!

Weekend here I come :)

2010-01-07T19:39:00.000-08:00

So, much easier this morning -- ah to be young again :)......just thrilled that my creativity is back!!!

working on stuff --- love it!!!!!!

Day 2 DOWN!!!

2010-01-05T23:29:00.000-08:00

It was oh so slightly easier getting up this morning ---- 21 days to form a habit my butt!!! When it is a lazy habit I think it takes all of 2 seconds :)

Whitlee is not liking getting up -- she gets up easy enough (so didn't get that from me!!!) it's just once she is up getting her started......

I think my creativity is back ---- getting some sleep does that :)

Back to school Back to school.....

2010-01-04T21:45:00.000-08:00

Today was a happy day for one and an early day for the other --- I swear it was darker this morning when I was driving Brendan to school than last night when I went to bed ----- Whitlee couldn't wait to get to school!!!!!

They both had good days :) I'll only admit to a brief nap --- this momma was tired :) Tomorrow is day 2 :)

Old friends are the...........

2010-01-03T17:32:00.000-08:00

best friends!!!!

My friend Robin and her family are in town ---- they are currently living in Michigan (moving home soon!!!) -- they came out to be with family for the holidays. We got together with them today -- it was great to see her (she looks AMAZING) and the girls...WOW!! They are so grown up!!!!!

I'll have to post some pictures!!!

It's been a good day!!!

Welcome 2010.......

2010-01-02T13:30:00.000-08:00

We had a all day jammie day yesterday --- well, Jeff worked out and took a shower so he got dressed :) But, Ginger, the kiddos and I stayed in our jammies ALL DAY!! We ate a bunch of chips (with cheese and chili dip), Weeeeeennie Dogs, Shrimp etc........We watched lots of hockey (YES, you read that correctly) and football ----it was a fun day :)

Today, while I don't what to do a single thing I'm sure laundry will be done as will dishes -----

Kiddos go back to school on Monday - Whitlee CAN'T wait!!! Brendan not so happy about going :) I am looking forward to it!!!

December 31st..............

2009-12-31T23:32:00.000-08:00

So, in roughly 37 minutes we will say goodbye to 2009 and HELLO 2010!!!!

It's been an amazing year for us

Brendan started 8th grade, Whitlee Jane started Kindergarten, Brendan got his heart broken for the first time and Whitlee decided she wanted to bottle her farts so that daddy could enjoy them when he got home from work :)

Blogging will continue and my word for the year is BREATHE.................just breathe..............it's gonna ROCK!!!!!!

2009-12-24T11:39:00.001-08:00

Seriously.....2 hours down and we are half way!!! SANTA ROCKS!!!!!

November 30th REALLY!!!!

2009-11-30T09:51:00.000-08:00

The past 3 days are nothing much more than a bluuuuuur :)

Had an AMAZING birthday ~ So happy to have gotten together with my brother and his wife!! We tried out a new Japanese restraunt in Federal Way! It reminded me of something my Step-mom would have LOVED!!!! It was nice and quiet and just the way I needed it to be!

Thanksgiving was DELISH!!! Ate more than I should but doesn't everyone :) Got some work done -- prepped for this past weekend!!!

Worked at the BF all day on Friday (crazy Black Friday shoppers :)) and all day on Saturday -- then I taught 2 classes yesterday (Sunday) - The super hot shower I took last night was AWESOME!!!!

Today, Laundry, dishes, maybe lunch with an amazing cousin :)....oh, and hiding Christmas Presents!! I swear these kiddos of mine get smarter each passing day (or maybe I am just getting older :))

Bring on DECEMBER!!!!

Friend found........

2009-11-22T13:22:00.000-08:00

So, Been having a Baaaaaaad week -- bad is just a term...maybe stressed...maybe sad...just overall icky........that's it icky....

So, Been having an icky week ~~ Different little things when stacked together makes me well, icky...

Have you ever met a person - someone who upon meeting them said to yourself "Hey, I can see this person as a life-long close friend"...the kind of person who you don't have to see or talk to every day butyou know is always there! The kind of person who just appears at random places (like the grocery store) when you just need them to be there - you need to see a face that just makes you feel like no matter what it is going to be OK!!!

I was at the BF yesterday doing my thing -- my mind was elsewhere -- it is a difficult time of the year for me. I'm teaching this ornament I look up and there is Peter....Peter my buddy from college....Peter...I see him maybe once a year or 18 months -- he will just appear in the strangest places -- just when I need someone to randomly say -- Chin up sparky! Literally is a split second of time with his goofy Peter smile he turned it around -- I'm not feeling so icky -- Even though I know the next few weeks are going to be as tough as they are....as they have been...as they will always be....I am working every chance I get to keep busy -- and I will make it through the next few weeks.........it will work!!! :)

Kids are amazing as always I'd expect nothing less :)

2009-11-20T14:54:00.001-08:00

New Moon is starting in 10 minutes!!!!!

Today is..........

2009-11-20T11:40:00.000-08:00

going to be a GREAT day!!! Last day of late start -- Brendan is turning in all missing assignments -- I am proud of how he has stepped up and accepted responsiblity - I hope that it will stick -

I am looking forward to seeing New Moon is just a couple of hours :)

I am working hard on some "samples" to show a friend -- she and I are going to have a craft booth at a big craft show -- FUN FUN FUN!!!!

It is a good day!!!

just noticed something...

2009-11-18T23:58:00.003-08:00

I hate that my photos become pixelated (is that even a word?) when I have to compress them down to be able to publish on the web.... not a judgement just an observation with an opinion...

No excuses....just life :)

2009-10-20T18:28:00.000-07:00

So, seriously....no excuses really just life happening :) When I started this blog post it was October 20th ---- today is actually October 26 :). It has been an entire month since my last lame "post" It was actually just an update from the fair :)

What has been going on at the Cunningham household??? SCHOOL HAS STARTED!!!!!! yes that is right! And, at our house this year 2 Cunningham's went to school............WHAT?!?!?!? Did I type that correctly??? No.....wait.....yes...CRAP! It's true :) Brendan started 8th grade this year - his last as a middle schooler. Next year will be High School ( I am crapping my pants already) - Whitlee Jane my sweet little baby started Kindergarten this year!!! So, both of the kiddos are off -- Here are some recent and by recent I mean from the first day of school on photos.

Brendan's 1st Day of 8th Grade

Our annual tradition of First Day of School Starbucks

Love this shot.....he HATES it!

Brendan

Brendan with no smile..

Brendan laughing at Heather (more about that later)

Brendan and Heather

School started on September 9th. Since Whitlee was in Kindergarten on the first day of school you have a "meeting". This means you get like 45 minutes or so - you bring in your school supplies and get to meet the teacher and see the classroom. They do that so when you arrive for your "first day of school" you don't freak out because everything is new and unfamiliar. Whitlee had a BLAST!! She was familiar with the classroom because we went to visit it during the Welcome Back/Open House BBQ...

She was SO excited because she had found her NAME!!!!

Walking to her "line" the first day -- of course she HAD to bring the teacher flowers :)

She found her name again :)

Because she had a "different" start day than Brendan she was able to have her own "Starbucks" time!!!! She was on cloud nine!!!!

This is what happens once the excitement of your first day has worn off -- you have a tummy of warm lunch and your Mommy made you hold still for more than 30 seconds!!!!

2009 Puyallup Fair
Brendan was explaining to Whitlee that these at one time were REAL animals!! She could understand why people would kill the animals just for the furry part!! (so, now we have one kid who is going to save the enviroment and one kid who will run PETA one day!!)

Whitlee said this is how they made lattes BEFORE Starbucks invented coffee!!!

Brendan couldn't wait for his friend Ben to get to the fair!!

Silly faces!!

Look who was tall enough at 4 years old to ride the "BIG" rides -- We went in circles A LOT!!!

Right after this picture with Patrick was taken Whitlee looked at him and said "My mommy won't let me watch your show --- she says it is STUPID!!!!" There was TOTAL silence for about 10 seconds and then......from somewhere deep inside of Patrick you could hear a faint chuckle :)...True Story!!!

It is hard to see him so grown up!!

He HATES this shot!! I love it :)

Love this shot!

You would never know (I didn't) she had a fever of 102!!! Gotta love the swine flu!!!

Love this shot!!!!

What happened to my shy little boy????

Even I didn't get this excited about Spirit Day in school!!!! (Yes, those are wings!!!)

2009-09-24T15:04:00.001-07:00

WHAT.....Smitty's is gone from the fair....saaaaaaaaad!!!!

2009-09-05T11:30:00.001-07:00

Today...is a great day!!!!!

2009-08-31T16:56:00.001-07:00

3 Hours.......1 mall.......1 paycheck......AND FINALLY 1 pair of shoes!!!!! I need wine!!!!!

2009-08-29T13:59:00.001-07:00

At a birthday party!!!! Blacklight bowling!!! FUN FUN FUN!!!!!

2009-07-18T12:19:00.001-07:00

Getting ready to shoot a wedding. It's always nice when you walk in and the family cheers because your there!!!

2009-07-17T14:09:00.001-07:00

Where is the MOJO??? Got lots to do today......

2009-07-16T13:14:00.001-07:00

At the fair with the family!!! It's HOT but kids are having fun!!!!

2009-07-13T16:19:00.001-07:00

Hey lady sitting in the booth behind us...if you loud smacking and groaning while you eat wasn't bad enough..your loud phone conversation is making me very mad.

2009-07-11T16:56:00.001-07:00

On our way to the Cheesecake Factory for Jeff's birthday dinner.

2009-07-07T13:46:00.001-07:00

Currently embracing me inner Buddah

2009-07-06T17:02:00.001-07:00

At the library with my kiddos...feeling awesome about who they are...it is a good feeling..very zen!!!!!

2009-07-04T18:01:00.001-07:00

Happy 4th of July......be safe

2009-06-24T23:26:00.001-07:00

Waiting........waiting......waiting....I hope this movie doesn't suck because I could be sleeping!!!!

2009-06-24T22:59:00.001-07:00

On my way to see Transformers 2 with the boys!!!!!!!!!

2009-06-22T10:57:00.001-07:00

In exam room.....swab taken.....waiting for doctor.....

2009-06-11T13:01:00.001-07:00

On the way back to school....sadly I was unable to shake the 13 year olds and they followed me onto the bus!!!!

2009-06-11T09:42:00.001-07:00

Please send wine to the pacific science center ASAP....I will be the one whimpering in the corner!!!

2009-06-11T09:01:00.001-07:00

Abort abort....5 7th grade boys + not nearly enough caffinated adult...we barely made it to the bus...short attention spans + girls.....YIKES!!!!

2009-06-11T07:55:00.001-07:00

Getting ready to go on the 7th grade fieldtrip!!!!!! How much coffee can I drink!!!

long time no real blog............

2009-06-09T09:25:00.000-07:00

OK -- enter the "modern age" Stephanie -- with help (A LOT OF HELP) I figured out how to post to twitter, facebook and this blog all from my cell phone -- ain't technology grand :)

Life has been a series of sporadic less than 140 character text posts :) We have been so busy!!!

Brendan started, played and finished his baseball season :) GO GO GO!!!

Summer vacation is literally just around the corner -- I get the daily countdown from Brendan and then when Whitlee gets up I get the daily countdown until she starts to school!!

Here is a brief look at our May............ It was a good month!!!!

Whitlee and a little photoshoot!! She LOVES that hat!!!!

Whitlee (& Diego) at one of Jeff's Softball games (Alki)

Brendan (and his baseball sweatshirt) at one of Jeff's softball games (It was like 80 degrees and he still wore the sweatshirt!!!)

I see this look A LOT!!!! I call it the "Oh Mom!!!!" look.

A rare teen smile

Whitlee (& Diego) hanging out

Whitlee saying "I AM NOT SLIDING DOWN THIS POLE!!!"

Brendan was my assistant on a photoshoot --

Gotta earn that money for his Washingotn D.C. trip!!!!

Whitlee at one of Brendan's baseball games ~

she can ALWAYS entertain herself!!!

Doing what she does best RUNNING!!!

(that is Rose The LOVE Monkey's arm you see)

Look more leaves!!!

Brendan playing ball!!!

The cotton wood is abundant here right now ~

Check out that piece on Brendan's nose!!!

Brendan getting ready for a throw from the catcher --

sadly, for the runner Brendan GOT HIM OUT!!!!

Whitlee had a Daddy & Daughter date!!!

Go Sounders!!!

Brendan warming up

Brendan making the play

It was a great baseball season -- well, out of 9 games played they won 1 game -- but they worked hard!! The 6th grade doesn't have a team, 7th grade doesn't cut so there was like 15 kids on the team & 8th grade cuts. Brendan started each of the 9 games (yooooooohoooooo!!!!!) and although the structure of the line up was moved around he batted in the upper 1/2 of the line up all season......all in all not bad!!!!

Whitlee is all registered for school and is SUPER EXCITED!!!! I plan to document each step!!! Brendan is looking forward to the summer and being in 8th grade!! I imagine that he will be spending a lot of time with Heather ~ and that is all I am going to say about that!!!!

I think that is it!

2009-06-06T21:49:00.001-07:00

Seriously.....it is 9:45 and there is a 30 minute wait at Sonic.

2009-06-04T12:06:00.001-07:00

Sitting in an air conditioned Dr. Office waiting to see my FAVORITE Dr. EVER!!!!!

2009-05-23T14:28:00.001-07:00

Done with a SUPER AWESOME photoshoot!!!!!! getting a cherry limeade and heades to Bonney Lake!!!!!!!

Today is AMAZING!!

2009-05-21T23:10:00.000-07:00

not going to give out many details.....but, I am going to say

THIS IS THE MOST AMAZING DAY!!!!!

Today, I became a Great-Auntie!!!! WOOOO HOOOO!!!!!

Amazing and BEAUTIFUL!!!!!

2009-05-21T18:43:00.001-07:00

Sitting in the sun @ Alki....waiting for Jeff's softball game to start!!!!!

2009-05-18T12:54:00.001-07:00

Having lunch with my favorite 5 year old at our favorite thai place!!!

2009-05-15T15:27:00.001-07:00

Sitting in the sun waiting to watch brendan start @ Shortstop!!!

2009-05-13T14:11:00.001-07:00

Wii fixed!! On our way to Brendan's baseball game hope it doesn't get rained out!!!!

2009-05-11T14:51:00.001-07:00

Just ordered a mango limeade...hope it doesnt suck!! Got a cherry limeade in case it does......

2009-05-11T14:18:00.001-07:00

Getting ready to enjoy some Sonic with the kiddos!!!

2009-05-07T16:32:00.001-07:00

Sittin in the semi sun watchin some baseball!! GO SPARTANS!!!!

2009-05-05T16:08:00.001-07:00

Sittin' here in the rain - game was called - the boys are still playing a pick up game!!!

beat....beat....beat goes the drum

2009-05-04T22:13:00.000-07:00

you turn around and life is passing you by:)

We have been SO busy!!!

Brendan had his first baseball game last Thursday. His first game as a middle school student. In 6th grade you aren't able to play baseball. 7th grade - Brendan has been waiting for this. They (the boys) are VERY VERY serious about the game of baseball. They are willing to lay it all on the line - to leave it on the field. Brendan started and finished at 2nd base - he played 5 1/2 of the 8 innings. He batted 6th in the line up of 15. Not bad dear son....not bad at all.

You ran out onto the field dressed in purple and gold (see your training to be a husky already). I noticed you and the other players did a quirky little thing....you ran straight to your base and touched it as you took your place on the field for the game. So serious that face of yours :) You played well.

As you stepped into the batters box I watched your face - trying to figure out what you were thinking........were you nervous? You faced a boy you had faced last season in Little League - he throws hard. You did well. Deep breath my son...in....out....

As I type this I am processing photos from the game. I'll have to post at a later date. Your dad so proud :) His boy playing for his school team. So, they don't cut in 7th grade - whatever, you started and batted 6th. I think if they had cut you would have made the team!!! Your dad was in his element -- a sunny day, a baseball field and since he wasn't on the field he kept the book for your coach. A great coach by the way.

Whitlee is doing well!! She is registered to start school in the fall -- she is SUPER excited!! She has decided she wants a nick jonas backpack! She loves her some nick jonas!!!

Guess that is all for now--I have set up the ability to post from my cell phone -- gotta love it:)

2009-05-04T22:02:00.001-07:00

Test test

life

2009-04-19T21:55:00.000-07:00

got a bunch to post but no time right now --- I hope to totally update in the next day or 2. Here is a photo of the kiddos from Easter

And the boy sings a solo..........

2009-04-02T15:12:00.000-07:00

A day that I never thought I'd see!!! Brendan sang a solo. You can tell how deep his voice is getting!!! YIKES:) He sings around the 37 second mark

I'm bummed that the video is so crappy -- I really need one of those flip phone things:)

13 in 10...............

2009-04-01T21:55:00.000-07:00

Tonight was the spring choir concert for Brendan's school -- he had a solo!!!

A FREAKING SOLO!!!!! Granted it was one line - but still - it speaks VOLUMES for the choir director!!!! He is AMAZING and Brendan would never have even tried out for anyone other than him!!!

I was very proud!!! I AM very proud!!!!

13 in 11

2009-03-31T17:37:00.001-07:00

and the beat goes on..........................

He is getting more and more excited:)

12 days........

2009-03-30T21:14:00.000-07:00

that's what he told me today --- yesterday it was 13 to 13......

He is SO SO excited about becoming a "TEENAGER" I am FREAKING out about it!!! I have heard horror stories about the "teen" years and it isn't just girls. There has already been some really emotional stuff. I get it I get it he is growing up. But, he is acting SO strange. I catch myself wondering "was I like this?" I'm not sure -- I don't think Steven and I ever went through a "growing" phases -- we were always just responsible.

His voice is changing -- that freaks me out!! It is MUCH MUCH deeper!! That REALLY FREAKS ME OUT!!! He sounds like Jeff more and more.

There is still the strange boy smell in his room. I know that there isn't anything "hidden" under the bed because I checked. It's just your normal everyday 12 year old boy smell + socks. His buddies at school - they all had hair as long as his was. Brendan got his hair cut -- they all have gotten their hair cut.

He is growing.........I can tell.............The constant eating that has been going on for the last 3 months WAS for a reason:) He has grown at least an inch in the last month or so -- Seriously, how tall is this boy going to be???

I can tell that he is more sensitive. There have been some situations that he is aware of -- they don't affect him directly - they affect people around him people he cares about. He isn't sure what to do about his feelings. He is hurting for others but doesn't really know how to handle it.

I know (I hope) that we will get through the teen years. I just might be totally grey/white by then. I am lucky and I am grateful to be his mom.

13..............YIKES!!!!!!!! It doesn't seem real...it doesn't seem possible!!! 13 in 12!!

I found a great new blog....

2009-03-29T11:56:00.000-07:00

she is a new team member for Cocoa Daisy.............Cute and she is so creative. She has a neat little contest going happening on her blog right now -- What is the most beautiful thing in your life right now.

http://justperspective.blogspot.com/

to jinx or not to jinx????

2009-03-28T21:02:00.000-07:00

THAT is the question!!!

I ended up picking Brendan up from school on Thursday -- his head was hurting BAD.........

He didn't go to school on Friday -- The Dr. called in an RX for pain meds. He seems to be better (fingers crossed). I let him go to the soccer game tonight -- I may kick myself for that one!!

I hate that he gets the migraine headaches.............it's more than hate -- it REALLY PISSES me off!! I recognize that in the grand scheme of things I've got it easy -- It's not a life threatening illness. It WILL eventually go away. I just hate to see him in so much pain! Those mommy instincts just kick the crap out of me!!!

I hope he is on the road to being and staying pain free ---

He will be 13 two weeks from today!!!! Where has the time gone. It is rather stunning for me to think of that. That tiny little baby -- has grown (and continues to grow) into such a fine young man!! He is changing --- I'll blog about that on his birthday..............

That's all........

Freaking Doctors????

2009-03-25T18:39:00.000-07:00

So, yeah yeah I have a hereditary kidney disease. It is called Polysistic Kidney Disease. I have known about it since I was 18. I wasn't shocked to learn I have it -- you have a 50% chance of passing it to your offspring. My mother had 4 children -- 50% of 4 is 2.......I am one of those 2. I know I know I decided to have 2 children. I hope and pray that neither of them have it!!!! In our family history it (kidney failure) doesn't usually occur until sometime in your 40's. I have watched this disease kill 3 people in my family -- my mother, grandmother & Great Uncle Arthur. These are the only people in my family that I have known with this freaking disease.

So, for the most part I have been proactive with the disease since I found out I had it. I don't consume added salt. I don't cook with it. I try very hard to not eat high sodium foods (but, sometimes you just MUST HAVE BACON!!!!). It's isn't fun............

The thought of what awaits me FREAKS me the F*$# out!!!!! Being connected to a machine 3 to 4 times a week while the blood in my body travels through tubes to be cleaned by a machine and then back into my body FREAKS me the F*$% out!!! This isn't something new -- I have ALWAYS had the fear. When my mother was alive prior to her heart surgery she had her "treatments" at home -- I couldn't even go into the room -- I couldn't look at the machine. This is what the "basic" set up looks like -- a "comfy" chair and the freaking machine.

It's not that I am not grateful for an option - I am! I just HATE that this is my option. This machine - the machine of my nightmares looms................3 to 4 times a week for 4 hours a stretch!! It doesn't matter what day it is

I remember my mother's arm just above her wrist -- it was oddly large and mis-shaped. She had at least 2 grafts in there (they are used to access the veins for the machine they are permanent). Is that what I look forward to? Yes. My Dr. informed me today that I am "officially" stage one -- NOW, that is the very beginning of this process. I still have between 50 and 60% kidney function which is good. But, hearing that it FREAKED me out. My Dr. chose that moment to take my blood pressure -- guess what it was more elevated than normal!!! Go figure. It was a super rough appointment -- to top it off I had Brendan with me. I try and go to these appointments alone. Brendan stopped a ginormous 7th grader in PE yesterday with his nose. I was pretty sure it wasn't broken but it is still swollen -- he is getting black/purple eyes and it HURTS!!!! I just wanted to check!!! Anyhow it was a rough appointment. We have a plan. I am actually going to call the Dr. tomorrow and see if we can step it up a bit.

O.K. I'm done........Pity party for me is over...........................................

A couple of things..........

2009-03-22T20:07:00.001-07:00

Day 03 of Brendan's Migraine -- it seems (fingers crossed) to be getting better -- He may actually try and go to school tomorrow. I feel SO helpless when he gets one -- Friday was ROUGH!!!!!!! I have a call into the acupuncturist and his Ped -- Just want to cover all the bases you know!

I had a WONDERFUL day today -- I worked at the BF (Ben Franklin) -- today was my Scrapbook Buffet. It was a good day!!!

We will see what tomorrow brings..............I hope Brendan will be able to go to school!!!

This is...........

2009-03-21T09:31:00.000-07:00

Day 2 -- of Brendan's most recent migraine. Just trying to keep track.

Sometimes in life..............

2009-03-20T08:50:00.000-07:00

you need to just breathe. Sometimes you do something that while you are doing it you think "Man, I think this is kinda dumb" - but you do it anyway!! Then some random thing happens and it brings you full circle -- then you think - "Man, maybe I'm not so dumb anymore".

Recently, the news has been full of the accident and then death of actress Natasha Richardson. Such a random accident -- she was having a private ski lesson on a BUNNY SLOPE. She fell and hit her head. No big deal right - a couple of hours later she wasn't feeling well and taken to the hospital after refusing inital treatment - cause, she was fine right? 3 days later she was gone leaving her sister, mother, husband and 2 young sons -- 2 boys that are Brendan's age.

Brendan, on Valentines evening -- we had gone out for our traditional Valentine's Day dinner -- Chinese food:) The kids had a blast -- Even Ginger was happy (there was red food!!). Brendan and Whitlee were hanging out in his room -- she was spinning around on the office chair he has for his desk -- not realizing that she was spinning Brendan bent down to pick some random thing from his floor. BAM!! she hit him on the side of the head with the metal section of the chair. She felt awful!!! She was sobbing and kept saying "I didn't mean to!! I didn't mean to!!! Not shocking Brendan had a headache -- after about an hour or so Brendan said he was feeling like he could throw up. Now, I figured since he got nailed in the head he would have a headache...duh! But, wanting to throw up put a whole new spin on it!!! I called the on-call Dr. It was the one Dr. in the practice that I don't really like -- She is O.K. I just don't like her very much. She said that I should take him into the ER. SERIOUSLY? Take him into the ER!! She said "yes, considering where he was hit if he was my child I would take him into the ER" - So, off we went. It was an interesting adventure:) There are some VERY INTERESTING people in the ER on Valentines Day evening!! I got to explain how sometimes, when people are alone on a holiday like Valentines Day they get really depressed (like the guy next to Brendan in the ER hallway) and take a lot of pills. We also had a conversation on why the guy in the first set of rooms kept screaming about how his penis was going to fall off -- we learned............errrrr, we forced to learn because he kept screaming it at his girlfriend that you don't ever replace Ben Gay ointment for motion lotion that heats up!!!.........................yeah, that was an interesting conversation to have with a 12 year old!!!! Then, there was the lady who had gotten hit by a car.....why, you might ask did she get hit by a car.............she jumped in front of it while she was crossing the street in a cross-walk and the car was going less than 5 miles an hour -- why was the car going less than 5 miles an hour...........because it was coming to a stop!!! Anyhow, we finally got placed in an exam room and the wheeled him off for a CAT scan................A CAT SCAN...........SERIOUSLY!!! He hit his head on a chair.............I'm thinking OK I get it but, it's stupid!!!! Brendan was fine -- he had a headache - they gave him some pain medication. He was fine. At one point I was thinking -- he just hit his head -- isn't this a bit much -- All the while Brendan kept saying "THIS IS STUPID -- LET'S GO HOME!!!" He even said it to the Dr.

Brendan in the ER

Brendan in the ER -- after pain medication -- notice he is crossing his eyes:)

So, do I have a point..........ah yes, Natasha Richardson died this week -- SO SO SO SO SAD!!! She fell on a bunny slope and hit her head. She HIT HER HEAD!! She didn't even hit it very hard. She DIED! I guess it wasn't so dumb taking Brendan to the ER on Valentines evening --- he was fine and he has a great story to tell........The CAT scan guy thought that they (the hospital) had made a typo and Brendan was 21 not 12 -- he (the CAT scan guy) thought that Brendan had hit his head from falling off a chair in a bar:) He was SHOCKED to realize that Brendan was really only 12. He called the intake girl and apoligized told her she didn't make a mistake with Brendan's age. The ER Dr. --- WAY WAY COOL!! Told Brendan that he needed to take his mom (me) home -- I had been through a lot!! He also told Brendan "When you sister is going to hit you with something tell her to hit you anywhere but the head!!!" He was a really great guy!!!!!

Random Things Overheard Recently.........

2009-03-10T02:56:00.000-07:00

"Five Dollar, Five Dollar, Five Dollar foot long at Subway, eat fresh!!!"

"I'm a spider monkey"

"My feet smell like an elephants butt!!!"

"Karma, she is a bitch with a long memory"

I wonder............

2009-03-02T00:33:00.000-08:00

how many???? How many bloggers write an entry but don't actually post it????? Just something I wonder......................I know I simply can't be the only one:)

My Sweet Girl..........

2009-02-27T22:48:00.000-08:00

It has been 1827 day since you shot into our lives. You my daughter have taught me far far more than I have taught you. A fighter from week 15 when my water broke. I am filled with love and gratitude for you and your brother -- I have always said that if I never do another thing in my entire life that will be fine as I have the two of you.

The opportunity to be your mom is so unbelievably awesome!!!! How come I am so lucky?? Sometime, I admit that I wonder "What in the hell is going through her mind?" or "Seriously, the dog in the dryer" or "No, Jeff I have no idea why she sprayed carpet cleaner into the TV" I am willing to admit that I have looked at you in wonder and thought --- Brendan never did anything like this...............That is ALWAYS ALWAYS followed by she is not Brendan she is Whitlee Jane. I love you with my whole heart............I will never get tired of you saying this to me. When I ask you "How do you know it's your whole heart?" a brief roll of the eye is usually followed with "Mom, I know -- you are the best mom and I love you"

Here are some reasons I love you so:

~ you give the BEST hugs

~ You LOVE LOVE to learn - reading and writing

~ You are SO artistic (your "colorations")

~ When you smile you smile with your entire face

~ You find such enjoyment in anything you do

~ You love to be a helper....especially when I am baking

~ You make the BEST sugar cookies:)

~ You are SUCH a girl!!!!!

~ You LOVE shoes:)

~ You love pink and must wear it EVERY SINGLE DAY

~ You love to sing at the very TOP of your lungs anytime and ANYPLACE!!!!

~ You love your brother (or as you call him....bro bro, peanut bruder, b bob, brother)

~ You have no problem showing your emotions

~ You look exactly like me!!!! It is scary!!

~ You love to tease me --- you eat celery in front of me so it will gross me out, you skip and giggle because you know I can't skip AT ALL!!!

~ You are so amazed when you learn something new

~ You LOVE dinosaurs and babies

~ Your willing to try almost anything

~ You start each and every day by giving me a GIANT hug and telling me you love me

~ You have a compassionate soul

~ You worry about Daddy, Brendan, Uncle Steven, Auntie Ginger, Auntie Sharlene and your grandparents.

~ At your young young age you are so well mannered..........OK, not ALWAYS well mannered but, most of the time:)

~ When I am sick you want to take care of me.......thank you for making me toast:)

~ You hate peanut butter:)

Thank you my sweet girl, thank you for picking me to be your Mommy!! I love you with my entire being!! Along with your brother you are the reason for each and every breath I take, you are why I wake up in the morning, you make me want to be a better person so, I can lead by example. I wish your Grandma Nancy, Your Bachi, Great Gram Ohrt, and Great Grandma Cunningham had each had the opportunity to meet you..........Man, they would have LOVED LOVED you!!!! They also would have loved the fact that you keep me on my toes (they would think that this was PERFECT).

I look forward to watching you grow -- this is a big year for you after all you ARE an entire hand!! You will start school this year...my heart breaks at the thought of this...I hope there is a Trish McCullom there I think I'll probably need a hug:) I am excited about your adventure -- you are excited about your adventures....... I love being your mom!!!

Happy birthday baby!! I love you!!! May this year bring you happiness and adventure. Grow and enjoy every moment -- I'll be right here!!

Love you bunches to the moon and back with frosting and sprinkles,
Mommy

Random things recently heard at the Cunningham house...

2009-02-18T12:17:00.000-08:00

~ You can't light a porcupine on fire, throw it into a barn and expect licorice

~ That's the way I roll

~ it's redonklus

~ I wonder if I could really light my farts on fire

~ Did you know that is called a Catroll (we were eating Chinese food for valentines dinner - Brendan was convincing her the egg roll was actually a Catroll).......Nice!!

A golden nugget on a golden day............

2009-02-11T10:20:00.000-08:00

There are a handful of blogs I read on a consistant basis (and...well stalk:))

Recently, I came across a blog that well, simply put it makes me feel good!!! Liz - she just has the most amazing way of putting words to computer:) This is from a recent post --

it is good to be reminded
it is good to be reminded that i am not alone
it is good to be reminded
there is deep, true connection in my life
i can look myself in the eye and know that this is truth
i am not alone
i am not alone

(you are not alone)
(remember this)
(reach out to someone in your world)
(invite love in)

i send you blessings and peace on this day
i send you blessings and peace for this moment in your journey
rememberin this moment
you are not alone
.........................................Liz Elayne

Amazing right!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thanks Liz you inspire me!!!! Here is a link to her blog -- You will not be disappointed!!!! Plus she sells some really cool handmade stuff

http://bepresentbehere.blogspot.com/

2009-02-10T16:05:00.000-08:00

Since I have turned 40 I have been doing a lot of self inventory - I think of it as a Stephanie in retrospect if you will ~ like the Army --- Be all that you can be!!!

Getting back into contact with girls now women from high school -- How I have missed them in my life!!! Where there had been a hole there is no longer.

Taking control of my kidney issues instead of burying my head in the sand. I went back to the Dr. -- Had the ultrasound, gave blood, pee'd in a cup etc. etc. etc..........Good news - kidney function is stable (that is good).

Enjoying the creativity that I have -- it really does matter to me.

Working on my photography eye......I am learning to really trust my instincts -- shoot what is pleasing to my eye -- I have yet to not love the results!!!

Kids are doing well -- currently I am not freaking out that Whitlee is just a few days from turning 5!!!!! She is so excited and it is very easy to get as excited looking at it through her eyes. I am looking at schools now -- my sweet baby girl will be a big Kinder in September (she is already checking out backpacks!!!). Brendan, he is doing well in school -- he is doing better than well!!!!!! I enjoy them so - they truly the be all to end all!!!

I am so grateful for fertility medical intervention!!!!

I strive daily to live my 2009 word: Cherish........I feel it down to my bones:)

.........Just when I am winding down along on this road I know out of nowhere in particular I get a bit of information (which will remain private at this time) -- I admit I have thought of it every now and again after all, I am only human:) When I got this tidbit the pain was gone........poof........WOW!!! Seriously, I don't feel glee at others pain and I know there had to be some pain. Nor, to I feel vindicated (OK that isn't true................maybe juuuuuuuuuuuust a little bit). I do feel bad for the pain I know accompanied the entire situation.

It's been an interesting time since I've turned 40!!! Being 40 is TOTALLY BAD ASS!!!

You might be a Redneck if.....And report cards..........

2009-02-10T08:25:00.001-08:00

Every year the kids and I buy Jeff a daily calendar for his office. Last year he got a George Carlin calendar -- it was SO SO funny!!! We couldn't really find one that we liked -- Brendan kept looking for another Carlin ----- nothing ---- Brendan and I were in Barnes and Noble the recently and FOUND ONE!!!! Jeff Foxworthy --- I love him -- I think that he is so funny!!!! Anyhow, it was fun going through the days already passed -- Whitlee is holding onto one for her Uncle Steven --- The following is my favorite so far..............

You might be a redneck if you think Starbucks is a hunting ranch..........................

Take a second.........................

I can see you laughing:).................It's ok!!!

Jeff's favorite one......

You might be a redneck if you have given your compliments to the chef.............at a county fair!!!

We got Brendan's report card --- 3.76 GPA!!! Not bad we are VERY proud of him!!!!!

I am off to make sugar cookies................

Update................................

2009-02-02T18:28:00.000-08:00

February is upon us..............SERIOUSLY!!!!!!!!!!!!! Where did January go??? Whitlee will be 5 in 25 day.............SERIOUSLY!!!! She is VERY VERY excited!! She is having a pool party (her favorite kind of party) with a PINK Princess Theme...........She says the best part is that she is going to be a whole hand!! I remember when that impressed Brendan. For Christmas Steven and Sharlene bought her a Cupcake Maker. Brendan convinced her that she wasn't old enough to use it -- that she had to be 5!!! I was finally able to convince her last night that it was ok for her to use it with Mommy or Daddy's help!!! Today we made CUPCAKES!!!!!!!!!!!! Errr............I mean she made cupcakes and I supervised -- Here is the fruit of her labor:)

All the cool equipment

She needed to touch everything

She was trying to figure out which cupcake paper to use
Adding water

Adding MORE water

Mixing........

More Mixing....

Into the cupcake cooker you go baby!!!

Getting ready to nuke it!

mmmmm.....Yummy

This AWESOME finished product! It was cinnamon sugar -- she said it was SUPER YUMMY!!!

I was in the grocery store the other day -- Look what I found.....

You know I totally had to buy some!!!!!

We went to have lunch at Jeff's office last week. This is a time honored Cunningham child tradition. Kid + Elevator = jumping!!!!

This is one of her favorite parts:)

When you are almost 13 you don't jump anymore -- you sit on the handrails

These are some glass globes that hang in Jeff's building -- I LOVE LOVE LOVE them!!!

Up close

And another one.

Lunch --- Spiced Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwiches and Tomato Soup

She LOVES grilled cheese (she had me take of the apples)

Even at his dad's office he is WAY cool

Cheeeeeeeeeeeeese

The children are SPOILED at Jeff's office!!! This is a little present from Maryanne -- a little candy bar and $$$$$.

This is one of my VERY FAVORITE PHOTOS OF THE KIDS!!!!! I took it from across the room -- I so love this!!!

A certain little one developed a huge case of the giggles:)

More giggles

She just couldn't stop!!!!

It was so so cute!!

The fam...

We are doing well, Brendan just started a new quarter in school!!! He is getting ready for baseball training -- Whitlee is focused on turning 5!!!!!!!!!

How are things on your end?????

Blog Makeover:)

2009-01-28T21:45:00.000-08:00

So, while I do have stuff to catch up on I wanted to redo the blog bling --- I think I like this.......The photo is of the kiddos. We went and had lunch with Jeff on Monday since Brendan didn't have school. I think it is one of my favorite shots of the kids:)

2009-01-20T20:33:00.001-08:00

This is my second post today -- well, it's my 2nd blogging session but 1st post -- I found a cool website and well, I came up with these:)

Cherish is my word for 2009

I did 2:)
Here is Brendan...

Here is Whitlee Jane...

I couldn't resist and had to do one of Matthew...

Like I am going to let an opportunity to post this photo again.........

Today was a good day!!!

I got some laundry done....

I cleaned out a heater....

I scrapped some pages.....

Dinner With The Ben Franklin Girls..........

2009-01-17T23:46:00.000-08:00

So, tonight Jeff took the kiddos to the hockey game -- it was the teddy bear toss vs. Everett (BOO). I went out for dinner with the girls from the BF (that's Ben Franklin). We were celebrating both Maryann and Diana's birthdays!!!!

Here is Becca -- she is SO excited about her chip!!!

Kendra + Becca = Sisterly love
Tracy and Maryann

Becca is hungry

This is one of our waiters -- he REALLY wanted his picture taken but wouldn't look at the camera!!!!

The LOVEBIRDS!!!! Diana and Rocky

Rocky and Lisa - Rocky REALLY needs to come out of his shell!!!:)

Diana and her Long Island Ice Tea:)

Maryann and Rocky (Really!!! he is a shy guy:))

Maryann's BOOBS

Diana being really cute!!!!

Rocky and his boobs!!!!

Diana and her boobs!!!

Lisa and her boobs!!!!

Maryann and her hat:)

Don't ask:)

Joy............errr........I mean some stranger and her boobs!!!

Diana and her beautiful hat

Joy and Diana!!!

Rocky didn't want to be left out!!!!

It was a really fun night!!!!

By the way Tbirds won the hockey game 3-1!!! Go birds!!!!!

Banged up ankles, knees and broken toes

2009-01-14T17:07:00.000-08:00

First, I'd like to say that they ARE NOT ALL ME:)

Brendan played in his last basketball game on Monday -- it was against "the team" -- you know the one -- a crappy coach who thinks his crap doesn't stink -- teaching the kids to play crappy ball. The kind of coach that if he was Brendan's team I'd yank him off the team faster than you can blink. The first time we played this team they beat us pretty well and they beat the boys up pretty well -- it was more like a full contact football game than a basketball game.

Brendan looks like he has been put through a hand mixer:) -- OK so, I have to admit it IS kinda his fault.......The boys went toe to toe with this team -- not letting them push them around -- pushing back. Why would you have YOUR TALLEST PLAYER --- I'm talking this kid was literally 6'2" at LEAST -- and he is guarding BRENDAN!!!! Why as a coach would you do that?? This kid thrust at Brendan with his hip trying to set him off balance -- wrong thing to do. Normally, I wouldn't advocate behaviour like this BUT........you can only take so much and Brendan had reached his limit. This kid hip checked him and Brendan took him down. It SO should have been a foul -- he knocked this kid out at the knees, there was a tumble of gigantor kid and Brendan -- That kid didn't cover Brendan anymore.

Brendan currently is a mass of bruises - and SO proud!! His team won by the way -- taking the game into overtime. IT WAS A SWEET SWEET SWEET win;)

Here is Brendan's Basketball Photo (evidently, you don't smile in middle school)

and..............well, I broke my little toe yesterday -- I know it isn't shocking I did it to myself -- I am so clumsy!!! I called the Dr. She said that I could come in if I really wanted to but that there wasn't anything that she could do --

I made Whitlee Jane's 5 year well check today -- we are one step closer to school (yikes). I am checking out a couple of schools next week -- I'm not sure that I am going to send her to the same school that Brendan went to -- there have been a lot of changes there.

I'm off to take some pictures of Brendan's knees:) it will be good for my 365 project!!!

23 days and couting.....................

2009-01-13T12:33:00.001-08:00

since I have blogged!! YIKES!!!!!!!!! We have been so busy -- snow, no school, Christmas, snow, new years, snow and then RAIN!!!!

Here is a brief or not so brief look at the past 3 weeks.............

Our Annual Visit to the man in the red suit:)

CHRISTMAS EVE

Brendan.....He SO wanted this movie

Whitlee and her newest Littest Pet Shop Posse'

Brendan and the money box

Brendan and the money from the money box

Whitlee and her new tea set

Grandpa enjoying some tea:)

CHRISTMAS MORNING

Whitlee and her new Easy Bake Oven that Santa brought her

Brendan and his guitar

Brendan being COOL at Steven and Sharlene's Apartment

I don't know what she is doing

Matthew and hockey tickets

Whitlee and Daddy using her Easy Bake Oven

...Stir the mix

...Put it in the pan

...Tap tap tap

YUM!!!!!!

...In the oven it goes

Playing ROCKBAND at Steven and Sharlenes

Drummer Brendan

Rocking the guitar

Getting ready to play

Steven REALLY needs to come out of his shell!!!

Go Matthew Go

all business

Whitlee wanted to sing

Doing her best impression of a Robert Palmer Video

Steven and Sharlene

Check out Steven ----- I think he is having fun!!

Whitlee the drummer

Open house at the new Kent Ice arena

Larry and his daughter Larren

The real Larry

Whitlee's awesome new shoes

The REAL Michael

Dinner before the opening night hockey game in Kent

My "happy face"

Steven's little beer

Matthew and his Christmas present that FINALLY came in

the dude with honey

my dinner

Steven and his bib

Brendan

Matthew Steven

Whitlee, her bib and some ribs

our group

our group from the other end

fire on ice

cool bird, Brendan and Matthew

Chuck A Puck

Nice Terri:)

Play from our great seats

There you have it!!!!!!! Short sweet and to the point!!!! I'll be back later!!!!!!

Did someone say SNOW????

2008-12-21T13:09:00.000-08:00

We have lots and lots of it:) The kids are SO SO happy --- Brendan is especially happy because it gave him an extra 2 days of Winter Break ---

Check later there will be pictures to follow:)

525,600 minutes, 356 days, 52 weeks, 12 months...........

2008-12-18T00:47:00.000-08:00

1 year............

It's been one year since Rick died. As with all my siblings I think of him daily. I think of what he has missed this year. I think of what he will miss in the year to come -- and it is going to be a HUGE year!!!! He has 3 of the MOST AMAZING KIDS!!!

I miss him.......plain and simply put I miss him!!!

Busy....Busy.....Busy....

2008-12-16T16:23:00.000-08:00

That's what we have been -- but, that is par for the course this time of year. On Saturday we went with Steven, Sharlene and Matthew to hack down the annual tree-sicle:)

Here are some shots that I grabbed ----

Whitlee Jane is NOT happy - why?? She was told NOT to jump in all the mud puddles.

Matthew and Brendan playing tree or seek
Dude -- I can STILL SEE YOU!!

I can see you also!!!!

Still mad about the mud puddles!!!!

Look.........they are so sweet --- right before this Brendan tried to push Whitlee INTO a mud puddle!!!! Gotta love them:)

Cousins..............ahhhhhh!!!!!

I was able to do a mini photo shoot with Matthew - I love to photograph him just as much as taking shots of my own kids. When I was proofing these shots they just made my heart stop!! I love this kid:)

We have picked a tree.......

Jeff and Brendan thought this was funny!!!

The "Brendan is FREEZING" pose

Whitlee Jane "drinking" raindrops off the trees

Whitlee Jane singing the "I'm looking for a worm" song

Son, what are you doing with that saw????

Jeff - he decided was a Tree monster --- I still don't know what a tree monster is!!!

The Yamashita Family and their TINY TINY tree

Sharlene and Steven

Whitlee Jane "feeding" Uncle Steven a worm......Yummy!!

I'm outta here --- off to finish my 20 DOZEN sugar cookies!!!!

4:15 AM ---- BLACK FRIDAY............

2008-11-28T23:26:00.000-08:00

I have never participated in "Black Friday" before --- The throngs of people has never "been my thing" --- I was at Joann's this morning at about 4:45 am -- I was 6th in line -- I was on a mission -- Cricut cartridges -- on sale -- $37.88 each -- normally they are $89 or $99 each. That is a deal I WILL GET UP FOR!!!!

I got what I wanted and was out -- home for a nap -- Feeling a bit off today - not sure if it is because I am tired or the fact I've been thinking of Hawaii A LOT!!! Tomorrow is the day -- the spreading of Ricks ashes -- I really want to be there -

That's all...................................

Sent From Steven..................................

2008-11-26T13:18:00.000-08:00

A young man named John received a parrot as A gift. The parrot had a bad attitude and an even worse vocabulary. Every word out of the bird's mouth was rude, obnoxious and laced with profanity. John tried and tried to change the bird's attitude by consistently saying only polite words, playing soft music and anything else he could think of to "clean up" the bird's vocabulary. Finally, John was fed up and he yelled at the parrot. The parrot yelled back. John shook the parrot and the parrot got angrier and even ruder. John, in desperation, threw up his hand, grabbed the bird and put him in the freezer. For a few minutes the parrot squawked and kicked and screamed. Then suddenly there was total quiet. Not A Peep, was heard for over a minute. Fearing that he'd hurt the parrot, John quickly opened the door to the freezer. The parrot calmly stepped out onto John's outstretched arms and said "I believe I may have offended you with my rude language and actions. I'm sincerely remorseful for my inappropriate transgressions and I fully intend to do everything I can to correct my rude and unforgivable behavior." John was stunned at the change in the bird's attitude. As he was about to ask the parrot what had made such a dramatic change in his behavior, when the bird continued, "May I ask what the turkey did?

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

40 years and 1 day..........

2008-11-25T09:41:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was my 40th birthday --- I'm not freaked out about turning 40 -- I'm just not - should I be??? It was a good day -- Whitlee woke up about 6ish and to quote her "Happy Birthday mom cause your old", she rolled over and went back to sleep. Life is just that easy when you are 4. It was a school day for Brendan -- he wasn't feeling well -- he and I went round and round about if he should go to school -- It was his first basketball game of the season - so he took some anti-nausea medicine and off he went. I really don't know how he made it through the day -- I'd say pure stubbornness -- Thankfully, he has a great coach -- when in the 2nd period Brendan turned completely white he pulled him out knowing something was wrong -- When he asked Brendan what did my son reply -- "nothing". At half time I took him a Gatorade and meds just in case ---- His coach asked my if Brendan was ok -- and I said no -- Let's just say he wasn't surprised that Brendan told him nothing was wrong:) He kept him out of the game until he had drank most of his Gatorade --- seriously, I don't know how the kid was standing.

We went to dinner at The Rock -- Brendan really really wanted to come home but managed to make it through dinner -- I am keeping him home and I don't know if he will go to school for the 1/2 day on Wednesday --- I'd rather have him get well than anything anything else!!!!!!

It was a good day -- and there wasn't a turkey cake in sight!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Guess where Brendan and I went?????

2008-11-23T22:54:00.000-08:00

we went to see Twilight!!! Brendan wanted to see it!! I'm not sure if he really wanted to actually see the movie or if all the talk of the movie at school (by the girls!!!) peeked his interest OR if the fact that the guy that plays Jasper Cullen is from Auburn and went to Cascade Middle School -- maybe it was all of the above -- whatever it was I am glad that we went!!!! I wasn't holding out high hopes for the movies -- it is such an excellent book!!!! I liked it A LOT!!!! I didn't even mind paying full price (I hate paying full prices for a movie that sucks!!!!!) -- I'd even see it again!!! LOVE LOVE LOVE!!!!!

Brendan took a couple of shots with his cell phone

The cast -- Jasper is the dude all the way to the right in the back.....................

I really thought that this was a stunning poster ---

Like I said I am glad that we went -- Brendan now wants to read the books -- I can't wait for the second one to come out --- I think Brendan and I will be catching the midnight showing of that baby!!!!!

Brendan has a parent/teacher conference.....

2008-11-23T21:06:00.000-08:00

Well, truth be told Brendan had 5 parent/teacher conferences and 1 parent/coach conference....

BRAG ALERT!!!!
It was wonderful!!! I learned that Brendan is very smart, a hard worker, reliable, a joy to have in class, helpful, someone to count on and he always gives 110%

it was a good day to be a parent:)

Well done my son!!! Your Dad and I are so very proud of you!!!!!!! Your a rock star!!!