Tuesday, October 28, 2008





Ellery takes a ballet and tap class once a week, which she absolutely loves, despite being the youngest in the class. Last week the parents were able to come and watch for the entire session. As a former teacher, this was quite interesting to view my own child and her ability to listen and follow directions. Let's just say that we have some work to do.

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

What have happened to all the gentleman in the world? Do they all live in the south? Do parents in other parts of the country not see manners as important to teach their children? My mother was HUGE on manners and being polite to others. I was walking through a door today with my double stroller. This stroller is quite wide and not easy to maneuver through doors. The man a few feet in front of me, who clearly saw me, walks through the door and then allows it to slam in my face!!! Actually, it was in the face of my children. How difficult would it have been for him to take an extra 5 seconds out of his day to hold the door open? I am writing this because it is certainly not the first time that this has happened to me. It REALLY aggravates me and I just think that we need to remember the importance of being cognizant of others. Hold the door open for others. Say "thank you" when someone does ANYTHING for you. Say "bless you" when someone sneezes. Say "excuse me" when you do something that warrants this response. O.k.--I am off the soapbox--thank you for allowing me to vent!!


It seems that most children love to swing, and our children are no exception. Dane squeals with delight and begins madly kicking his legs when we put him in. Ellery could sit and swing for hours. . . .even her teachers at school told me that she loves to swing(when she isn't playing house). Dane cracks me up in this picture. . .he looks like a little old man!!

Monday, October 20, 2008


One of my favorite pictures. Can you say "daddy's girl"?





On Monday evening we met Darin at the park before he was off to a business meeting. After living in Seattle for 7 years, we have learned to appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds us. We are fortunate to live in such close proximity to many beautiful parks, but this is one of our favorites. Where else can you push your children on the swings while you watch surfers and the sunset?


Here are a few pics from our pumpkin carving party. I had to include one of Ellery with her new "boyfriend". Look at those beautiful curls!!!!



These are a few funny pics of Chad with Dane. He told us he was leaving and then walked out with Dane in his bag. Don't even think about it, MR.!!!!!





It was a busy weekend with visitors, a LONG visit to the pumpkin patch, and a pumpkin carving party on Sunday. Darin's friend since middle school, Chad, came into town for a quick visit. They ventured out for some surfing, and then we all had a nice Mexican food dinner on Saturday night. We hosted a pumpkin carving party on Sunday with some neighbor friends, which was a blast! Darin worked dilligently to get all the pumpkins carved, in addition to grilling all the food. We are fortunate to once again have some amazing neighbors and friends.

Wednesday, October 15, 2008



On Friday night, a girlfriend in the neighborhood threw a "Sex in the City" DVD previewing party. I had an AMAZING time and I only wish I had come up with the idea on my own! It was only for ladies and each woman was encouraged to "dress-up" as her favorite character from the show. Needless to say there were some incredible outfits and some creative juices flowing. Another neighbor and I, decided to stick with our jeans, heels, and "going out shirt" attire. Although we were slightly underdressed, I felt fancy just to be out of my usual workout clothes, braids, and flip-flops!! It was a BLAST!!!!







On Sunday we made a quick trip to the nearest "pumpkin patch". I put this in quotes because after living in Seattle for 7 years, we don't really consider anything a true pumpkin patch unless the pumpkins are actually growing out of the ground! Darin had to catch a flight, so we did not have time to make the trip out to the true pumpkin patch--we will go next weekend. Ellery had a blast, as this pumpkin patch was well equipped with bouncy houses, a bouncy slide, rides and a small petting zoo.
After feeling inspired for years by Mrs. Casey Starnes. . . . I have FINALLY begun the process of starting my own blog. I don't promise to post everyday, but I will try and post as much as my little ones allow.