The Hubcaps

Halloween 2010

2010-11-05T08:58:00.006-05:00

We had lots of fun for Halloween. The girls had parties at school, preschool, and the babysitter's. I was exhausted by Friday night and still had Saturday and Sunday activities to go! Once again, Grandpa Pat was busy making costumes!!

FRIDAY

Friday morning I couldn't convince Lillian to wear her Halloween shirt because she created her own with the stickers Aunt Janelle sent.

Little Red Riding Hood ready for Preschool party.

Madeline's class getting ready for their "parade" of costumes at school.

Party at Trina's

SATURDAY - Great Grandma and Grandpa and Grandma and Grandpa Hudnall came up for downtown trick or treating and then had lunch with us. It was a full day for everyone with the Huskers playing a great football game and volleyball game.

"Elizabeth" ( Madeline's colonial American Girl Doll), Little Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad Wolf ready for some candy Saturday morning at the downtown trick or treat.

What a fine lady!!

SUNDAY

Don and Gaylene's house.

The girls with their beloved babysitter during the summer. Allie was part of a haunted house in the neighborhood. They did a "nice" run through with the kids.

Lillian and Eli finding it easier to trick-or-treat when you get a ride.

One more Birthday present

2010-11-05T08:28:00.004-05:00

This summer on our way to Yellowstone National Park, Lillian had decided she wanted a pink cowboy hat. I thought "okay, no problem". There were none to be found.

She kept saying she wanted one because her friend Eli was a cowboy for Halloween the year before and this way she could be a cowgirl. I pointed out to her that Eli did not want to be a cowboy again for Halloween. She didn't care. She still wanted a pink cowboy hat. So....she turned to the expert..Grandpa Gary. She called him and made the request for her birthday. Surprisingly, he had a terrible time finding one. It was up to Grandma Trudy to find one on her way through the state the weekend of her birthday party. No luck on the way east, but on her way home she found one in a store between Lincoln and Crawford and had it shipped to Lillian.

She was very excited to find the hat in the box and now is very determined to acquire a pair of pink cowboy boots. I'm sure Grandpa Gary will be happy to oblige. Hint, Hint,.... start looking now!

OOH-LA-LA!

2010-09-26T11:44:00.008-05:00

It's your Birthday, It's your Birthday, It's your Birthday...............................................

Lillian had her party for her 5th birthday. She had 10, that's right, 10 friends over. If you hadn't guessed from the entry before this her theme was Pink Poodles in Paris.

Holding our new dsi.

Showing off our new outfit from Aunt Melissa

Great Grandma having fun with the dsi

Party favors

Some of the poodles

Alicia

Molly

Bria

Jaryn

The "big" kids organizing games. Madeline and our friends Emily and Mitchell spent about an hour setting up and planning games. They did a great job!! Plus made the job alot more relaxing for the adults!

Opening gifts. Notice Isabel watching the action from above.

Have Some Cake!!!

2010-09-26T11:19:00.004-05:00

Here's my master piece!! I started at 3:00 p.m. and finished at 3:00 AM. Ok, so I did about twelve other things in that time period too but between baking, cooling, frosting, dealing with fondant for the first time, and detailing, it's not too much of an exaggeration. In the morning when the girls saw the cake they were excited so it was worth it.

Nickelodean Storytime LIVE!!! "Oh My Goodness," Lillian Says.

2010-09-26T10:58:00.004-05:00

OH MY GOODNESS as Lillian would say. For her Brithday she got tickets to see Kylan, Backyardigans, The Wonder Pets, and Dora all in one show!! Lillian and mom traveled to Kearney for the show and "Uncle" Duane (Uncle Knock Knock to Lilly) went with us.

Lillian was tired before the show started but when the show started this first picture is the look we saw for almost two hours of the show, totally enthralled with the show. She was surprised to see Moose and Zee on stage as well (you have to watch Nickelodean to understand this). We asked her what her favorite was and she told us, "all of them." The next day she said it was the best present ever for birthday.

She's Five!!

2010-09-22T20:34:00.005-05:00

Well she's five. I can't believe by baby is this old. She was awake and dressed by 5:15 Tuesday and cuddling with me. I asked if we could sleep and she said yes but kept chattering and making sure I was awake. She kept asking if me she was five yet because the sun wasn't up. But.... at 7:00 p.m. she was still smiling!! She was very excited about getting tickets to the Nickelodean Live Show in Kearney. Her favorite characters will be there. She was also excited to learn Uncle Drano (Duane) would be going with us.

Cupcakes I made for Preschool, daycare, and our family party Tuesday night.

Lilly's days and fashion.

2010-09-21T20:45:00.002-05:00

As I uploaded pictures from the camera, once again I found a picture I can only assume Lillian took. Just in case you didn't recognize this baby, this is .......I can't remember. Shockingly enough it's NOT Bitty Baby.

Two more looks from Lillian's closet. As she got ready for the first three days of preschool she asked if we could take pics. Who am I to deny this request!

Lillian's First Day of Preschool----This year:)

2010-09-20T21:08:00.002-05:00

Lillian started her second year of preschool! She was very excited to see her friends from last year. She was even more excited when she came home to report the "naughty" boys went to Kindergarten!! She loves this hat.

Our THIRD Grander!

2010-09-19T21:09:00.002-05:00

Yikes!!! I still can't believe Madeline is in the 3rd grade. I'll be blogging about her high school graduation before I know it! We had a hard time saying good-bye to summer but we were excited about starting the new school year.

The COUSINS!!

2010-09-19T20:54:00.002-05:00

At the end of our summer we were lucky to have Melissa and Chip here for a month before they moved to Germany. Connor is now 4 and Quinn was, at the time of their visit8 months old! Most of our time together was spent at the lake. In these pics Connor and Lillian were dancing for our entertainment and Quinn gave a smile. We cherish our time spend together and look forward to seeing them again. Next time I'm pretty sure Lillian will be the smallest but second oldest of all of them!! The time flew by.

Lillian's Entry

2010-08-28T20:41:00.005-05:00

I had uploaded pics onto the computer and laughed at these. I'm not sure if Lillian took of her self or if she had help. But I thought it was cute to see the puzzle pieces and thought I'd share. You never know what might pop up on our camera with them around!!

Missoula Children's Theater

2010-08-22T11:58:00.002-05:00

Madeline tried out for the Missoula Children's Theater this summer as it traveled through Columbus. She was cast as a pelican in "Treasure Island". She had a blast and knew several kids that were in the play with her. They did casting call on Monday and practiced all week with two performances on Saturday. She enjoyed the experience and is ready to try again next year. Grandpa and Grandma Hudnall, Don and Gaylene, John and Martha were all present to watch the show.

First Piano Judging

2010-08-20T21:17:00.002-05:00

The weekend after fair Madeline attended and took part in the Omaha Music Olympics. She worked really hard on her two pieces. Madeline was very nervous but it helped her to know that she would only play for the judge and not a whole audience of people. A week and half before the competition she hurt her wrist falling off of some monkey bars and we thought she may not be able to finish learning/polishing her pieces but she pulled it together and made it.

Before she played. She was very excited.

Recieving her award. After played she thought she would receive a medal. The award bronze and silver medals trophies and trophies with an award of distinction. So when we heard them announce her placing of a trophy she was elated.

All smiles.

Favorite Flowers

2010-08-19T21:22:00.002-05:00

YES!!! For some reason the rabbits left my flowers alone and I got to see some that I hadn't seen bloom before.

My favorite rose.

First Fair Entry

2010-08-19T21:10:00.002-05:00

A week after we returned from Yellowstone Madeline entered her first project as a Clover Kid (kids younger than 8 as of Jan 1). Madeline has enjoyed getting to know kids in her club, the Clever Clovers. Due to the fact that we had been running nonstop all summer we felt cookies was just the right pace for this year:). No all night sewing feats for me yet:). She made the cookies with her friend and fellow Clover Kid, Liza. She came home with a participation ribbon ( what all Clover Kid entries receive).

New Addition at the Lake

2010-08-19T20:46:00.002-05:00

WE HAVE ELECTRICITY!!! The lake as know it has changed forever!!! I thought it was cool to have warm shower a couple years ago. Now....let me say it again ELECTRICITY, microwave, air compressors and air conditioning and last but certainly not least....Flamingo tiki lights!! Pat's favorite addition. Life is good. Who knows what else this group will add!!! This was Madeline's pseudo birthday party. She had wanted a party at the lake so we told her we would have on this summer. Unfortunately the rest of the pics were lost:(

Last pics of Yellowstone?

2010-08-18T20:19:00.011-05:00

The them song for our trip..."You can't rollerskate through a Buffalo Herd" I think the Bison were Lillian's favorite because she could see them the easiest.

Here is where it all starts..at least in pics.

This was our camp site outside the park the night before we got in Yellowstone. As we pulled into the camp sight a Moose cow and calf ran through the camp ground. We were some of the first campers to camp here as the grounds had just opened the night before. It was gorgeous.

Yellowstone or Bust! The mountains are the Tetons.

After we set up camp we drove over to a geyser basin. It was the day my team was walking in the Relay for Life Relay in Columbus so we wore our shirts and "relayed" in Yellowstone.

Our first neighbors were from Germany. They had been in the US for a couple of months. They had girls about the same ages as Madeline and Lillian and loved to play. The girls could speak English amazingly well. The girls taught them how to make smores.

The full moon on the lake at our camp ground.

Exhausted

On our was to Morning Glory.

Beautiful

Our favorite neighbors of the trip. We hope to be in contact with them soon.

The girls palying in the campground.

There's squishy face. Coyde always calls Lillian's smile squishy face.

Just after we stopped at a picnic ground for lunch a Moose ran through the grounds. Five minutes later.....

Madeline lost a tooth.

AWWW Ice cream. In from of the Lake store where Grandpa and Grandma worked. We are sitting on George's bench, a friend of Grandpa and Grandmas.

Ice cream was a regular necessity. We had more ice creams more times than showers. Although that didn't take much. Later in the trip we called ourselves stinky hippies.

There had been a storm that knocked out the electricity so no showers. Don't worry the next day we were clean hippies.

Yellowstone Continued

2010-08-17T20:33:00.006-05:00

More pics. I'm posting pics from the end to the beginning. So hopefully another night of this and I'll have all of them posted.

Glad to be back posting.

Lillian at 6:00 AM same morning. She had gotten car sick on the way to Lamar Valley due to having an empty tummy. We set up the chair and snuggled her in and there she slept. And yes....she's sucking her thumb. Again.

Madeline is PJs hugging dad after she saw the wolf. The group grew quickly when I...yes...I spotted the wolf and then she chased an elk. The standoff lasted an hour and was like watching a scene on a TV program. It was amazing.

Lillian feeling much perkier and now dressed and eating breakfast.

At Mammoth Springs

Lillian is holding her hat over her face and refused to take it away from her face because of the smell. But I promise there was a smile under there.

All tuckered out. Grandpa says he liked riding in the back. We soon realized why.

Burble Burble POP!! Our favorite feature of the whole trip.

Speckles of mud the mud pot threw. Lillian is wiping it off her ear.

Lillian and Grandma doing dishes. Lillian loved this job. She also liked to scrub tables. I'd hire out but I keep her busy myself.

First the dishes then the feet. Lillian laughed and laughed at her foot bath.

Foot fashion after the foot bath. You won't loose her in the woods or a crowd.

We actually saw this guy a couple mornings previous to this on our way to Lamar Valley the first time. Yes....he's getting close. We are in the Sub and parked on the side of the road. He actually looked at us and headed straight towards us so we moved. He crossed the road where we had been parked. We teased Lillian he smelled her Froot Loops and wanted some. Well...she thinks we were kidding. It was a little close for comfort.

About three miles down the road we saw this mama and her two cubs. Her cubs are hiding at the moment. They also got too close and we weren't in the Sub but soon found it for refuge.

WOW!! I've got a lot of explaining to do!!

2010-08-16T20:45:00.010-05:00

Sisterly love in Yellowstone

It's Hot! And it stinks!

Address in Yellowstone 2010

Madeline getting instruction from the pro. Rick spent alot of time with Madeline while watching the wolves the second time we went to see them. He remembered her from the first day we went.

Rick and Grandpa Mark helping Lillian see the wolves. The wolves were at least 2 miles away.

Where are they?

Breakfast at Yellowstone Picnic area after seeing the wolves the second time in Lamar Valley.

WARNING! Hold onto Bitty Baby!

Ok. Pic a little far away but it's a mama grizzly with her three cubs. We weren't getting closer.

Madeline playing on the beach at Yellowstone Lake. It's COLD!

Home Sweet Home before it's all taken down.

Sorry. This is a bit scary I know. Lillian insisted. The girls thought it was hilarious to see me in piggy tales.

Oh yes, Bitty Baby was along for the vaca. She is sitting on the prize loon bought at a sidewalk sale at one of the stores in the park. We thought it was fitting that our little loon have a loon of her own.

Ok, I know, I know. I stink at keeping this up to date. In my defense I have had a computer on it's last leg all summer. But now......watch out. Thanks to Mike I'm back in action.

This summer has been such a wild ride. I'm going to take you back to the beginning and slowly post a new entry every so often. It won't take long because I'm discovering most were lost in the computer debacle.

So from May till late June nothin:(.

I'll give you a run down.

May 28th-May 31. Memorial Day - Camping at the lake. Quieter than usual but a very good weekend.

June 1-3 Madeline goes to Church camp with Grandma Trudy.

June 7-10th Madeline has Dance camp

June 7-10 Lillian has Bible School

June 19,20, 21 College World Series tailgate party

June 24-July 3rd Yellowstone!

July 4th Crawford

I'll stop there. I'll give you some pics to look at. We went to Yellowstone with Eric's parents. AND we owe Mandy and Roger a big thanks for letting us use their pop up which was bigger than our other option.

Lillian's Week

2010-05-13T20:42:00.003-05:00

This week Lillian was very busy! To begin with she had a starring role as a "prop" for the Columbus High School Choir concert. The girls choir was singing a song from "The Little Mermaid" and Allie asked if Lilly could pose as Ariel. It just so happened that Grandma Pat had been commissioned to sew a mermaid costume for Madeline a couple of years ago for Halloween. To top it off Lillian's dear friend Eli was asked to pose as "Eric" the prince from the movie. Needless to say Lillian thought this was a great idea! All possible bases were covered, favorite friend, costume, flowers, and center stage. Could it get any better?

Today, Lillian had preschol "graduation". I use this term loosely because she has another year of preschool before starting Kindergarten. She turns five in September and we've decided better to be oldest than youngest. We'll get back to you in a few years and let you know how that pans out. Again, center stage. The pics are not very close so she's the little one in the middle with a white and pink floral dress. For the first few songs you could hear her voice over everyone's. Little package.....big impact:)

Alicia and Lillian. Very good friends. Alician live just down the street. She has another close friend Jaryn who lives near by as well but we missed getting a picture with her... maybe next time.

We don't look alike do we?

See ya next time:)!!!

Dance Recital Review and Pics "Some Days You Gotta Dance"

2010-05-04T19:33:00.006-05:00

This last Saturday was dance recital!! I'll tell the story using pics. There are plenty! The pics are from the day of the recital. Prior to the pics were numerous practices at the high school. Friday night was dress rehearsal which lasted for Madeline until 8:30. My mom and Jackie came Thursday and spent Friday, Saturday, and Sunday with us. It was good to have them here. We actually filled an entire row with family and friends! (14). This was Lillian's first dance recital and our first shot at coordinating different schedules etc.

Madeline at 8:15 a.m. with her vanilla bean frap from Starbucks, texting and getting her hair done. 8 going on 18.9:15 a.m. pics in costumes before heading to one last practice at high school. This costume was for "Stupid Cupid" Myfavorite outfit.

Costume for "Santa Claus is coming to Town" Madeline's favorite outfit.

Costume for "Frosty the Snowman". Madeline's favorite dance. And as it turned out my favorite.

Dress rehearsal for Finale in Stupid Cupid costume.

10:45 a.m. Lillian's (yellow shorts) practice for finale. She might be hard to see in some pics. She was/is the smalles dancer in the whole production!

Madeline stays at high school and I bring Lillian home and go back to high school with my mom to watch the first performance starting at 1:30.

Eric took Lillian to get her hair done at 2:30.

5:15 p.m. Lillian's turn! Our fierce lion.

She was not sure how to smile with all that fluff in her face but she figured it out on stage.

7:30 p.m. Lillian danced about 30 minutes into the program. She did the best during the recital. Must have worked out all the jitters during rehearsal. She was pretty bewildered during dress rehearsal but it got better during the Saturday morning practice and by recital she was ready.

Too cute! The video is shaky because I was laughing so hard.

Madeline in green and on the right in her second dance and having fun.

The face says it all!

Our favorite moment. During the first recital she was actually dancing so hard she fell! She popped right back up and went on dancing as if nothing happened! She kept right on smiling. This pic was actually taken during second performance. That smile didn't leave her face through the whole dance.

Backstage.

Flowers from all her admirers. She was pretty excited to see us. She had been done dancing for quite a while but was wide awake and bushy tailed. She gave hugs and kisses to all and watned to stroll down the halls greeting friends. She was all smiles

BUT.......

her sister was trying to recover from the tears she always cries at the end! Madeline always cries because the seniors are done and will never be back and she "won't see her friends from dance till September!". The tears start on stage and carry on back stage and sometimes all the way home!

It's blurry but it tells the story. Lillian crashed in the 3 minute car ride home.

Madeline recooperating the next day.

(I had a margharita.)

Lillian practicing her "L"s

2010-05-03T20:22:00.002-05:00

Happy, Happy, Happy Birthday! Happy Birthday, Birthday to YOU!

2010-04-25T15:58:00.006-05:00

Madine turned 8 on Friday and we are all exhausted! Madeline, four friends and Lillian celebrated with pizza, swimming, cupcakes, movie, little sleep and then family!
Saturday, Madeline had her soccer game birght and early. No worries all the giggling girls were awake by 7:00 a.m. After the soccer game Great grandma and grandpa arrived followed by grandma and grandpa Hudnall. Madeline created the menu of hotdogs, jello, carrots and chips!

Pizza!

Melanie, Lexi, Madeline, Jayln, and Emily
We swam and then took me just as long to give 6 (including Lilly) showers afterward!

Cupcakes and presents outside at home.

Presents from Family on Saturday.

Camp chair for "Lanie"

Demonstrating flavors of lip gloss with Great Grandpa and Grandma

All smiles! Camper for "Lanie"

The girls and neighbors had gathered fallen blooms from trees and then scattered them.

Olympic Hero

2010-04-22T22:48:00.002-05:00

You may remember the 4 man bobsled team that won Gold at the Winter Olympics this year? The pusher is from a small town outside of Columbus. Needless to say he's become quite the hero around here. Soon after the Games ended he spoke at Madeline's school and Gaylene was able to take Lillian there to see him. Lillian got his signature and pics with him that day but Madeline did not have that chance. I would post those but my neighbor took them so I don't have them on my computer, sorry.
Madeline got a second chance when the Rehab Department at the hospital hosted Curt T (as he's known in our office) for another community gathering. She chose to take Eric and got her pics. Liza and Drew got to sit with Eric. Liza and Madeline had fun phoning each other using their parents phones and making Eric wonder how he gets himself into these situations.

Thanks Curt for being so gracious and spending so much time with the community celebrating your great success!

OOPS!

2010-04-22T22:41:00.002-05:00

"Put the duck down Uncle Coyde. BE NICE!"
Sorry Uncle Coyde....I forgot to mention that you came to Easter Dinner. Don't think for a second that your presence was not felt. We love you and will miss you while you are off being a fire bug in Colorado or whereever the flames blow. Be safe and enjoy the experiences.

Easter

2010-04-22T22:16:00.002-05:00

For Easter we stayed close to home. We've generally stayed close to home for Easter. It was quiet and simple. Eric's parents and grandparents joined us for Church and Easter Dinner. The weather was great and allowed the Easter Bunny to hide his goodies outside.
As promised....and expected at this point.....and anticipated by half of Columbus Grandpa Pat delivered this years edition of Easter dresses. This girls love them. Madeline is thrilled to realize she can turn the cumberbun so the flower is in the back or the front.

"Pose girls"
"Do something else."

"Turn"

"Smile"

And yes, the dolls were not forgotten.

More Ducks!

2010-04-22T22:04:00.003-05:00

Pics of the ducks trip to the lake.

Ducks

2010-04-22T21:39:00.003-05:00

Gloria, Fuzzy, Utka, and Donald

Madeline is sure this is Gloria.

Biscuit beginning to plot his attack in a couple weeks time. Plan was foiled.

Ducks a little bigger. Can you tell who is who?

Last year we raised chicks for several weeks. The minute they left with "Uncle" Duane plotting began to have ducks the next year. So....with Madeline working the phones to find a home for them as early as fall of 2009....and a little help from mom.... Uncle Duane was kind enough to help us out.

Their names....Madeline's was Gloria, Lillian's was Fuzzy, Eric's was Utka (Russian for Duck), Mine was Donald. We aren't sure if Donald in was honor of Donald Duck or our neighbor Don:).

Ducks grow faster than chicks...and as a result they are a bit smellier but they were thoroughly enjoyed. Eric, the girls, and Biscuit spent one day at the lake with them. They enjoyed stretching their webbed feet in the water.

Biscuit almost had Duck one morning when the Ducks were moved from the basement to the garage. Mom saved the day and everyone survived.

2010

2010-04-22T21:32:00.002-05:00

What can I say, once again I've abandoned my blog:(. Things are starting to get a little crazy around here which is scary because I feel like they were already a littly busy. To make this simple and not draw it out I'm simply going to give you pics to looks at. Enjoy.

Snow

2009-12-27T22:40:00.004-06:00

Lillian found crawling or digging through the snow easier than walking.

Truly a White Christmas!

2009-12-27T22:28:00.002-06:00

The morning after Christmas we decided to get out of the house. Let It Snow Let It Snow was as true this Christmas as ever.

Mark, Madeline, Pat, Lillian, and Eric
Pat helping Lillian through the snow.

Biscuit loves the stuff. Can'get enough. It swallows him but he plows right through.

Lillian trying to figure out how to make it down the path.

Christmas Day!!

2009-12-27T21:27:00.002-06:00

The faces say it all. Even though we did not make it to church Christmas was held in our hearts. We have been warm and cozy and well taken care of. MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

Christmas Eve

2009-12-27T21:06:00.002-06:00

We arrived at Grandma and Grandpa's house 24 earlier than first planned to try to avoid getting caught in weather. We were successful but Lillian was very sure that meant Christmas was the next day. She was relentless and Grandma being a sucker agreed the girls could open their gifts from them Christmas Eve.

After Santa had paid a visit.
Thei girls with thier new dolls and matching p.j. made by Grandma Pat

Lillian thrilled with her Bitty Twins. Named Abby and Tabby. None of us can tell them apart. Lillian has it figured out. Whichever one she hands to you first is Abby.

Madeline seeing her doll. It looks like her so aply named Madeline.

A little out of focus but Grandma helping Lillian carry the "very big box".

Concert

2009-12-27T19:37:00.002-06:00

Over Christmas Break Madeline is suppose to play for 12 people. Since we have been snowed in she has only played for a fraction of those. So I thought I would post this and then if the people who have not heard her play could leave a post then that would count!! Enjoy!!

She started playin piano in October. She had taken a few lessons last spring but didn't keep it up and then tried again this fall and took off!! She loves it. Merry Christmas!!

Sunday School Program

2009-12-27T19:31:00.002-06:00

After Santa we ran home ate supper, put dresses back on and headed off to the Sunday School Program. Lillian was slightly put out that she didn't get to take part. Next year. Madeline made a good Angel and Ithought it was a fitting part that will hopefully make her reflect on the spirit of the season.

Santa

2009-12-27T19:18:00.002-06:00

The after Lillian's preschool program Madeline had her Sunday School Christmas program and we finally made it see Santa Claus. What a jolly old elf he is. He proved to be worthy of all the kids respent as he knew their teachers. Later when conferring with other mom's and dad's we found out Santa really did know each child's teacher and/or principal. Lillian was very excited and gave Santa a hug for good measure.

More Christmas Preperations and Celebrations

2009-12-27T18:03:00.004-06:00

How is this pose?
Lillian's Preschool Program was next. This was her first Christmas program of any type. She was very excited. She had been practicing some of the songs for weeks aroudn the house. These pictures were loaded in reverse order because my blogging skills are a bit rusty. Sorry.

In attendance for her debut was Grandpa and Grandma H. and neighbors,adopted grandparents, Don and Gaylene. She was surprised by the bright lights and squinted most of the program but once she found us in the crowd she lit up like a Christmas tree.

Lillian and her friend Jaren. We hear about Jaren every day.

She found us.

Bright Lights make eyes squint.

Looking good is hard work.

NEXT......

Chatching up!!

2009-12-27T17:51:00.003-06:00

Madeline grooving and dancing
Very Excited!

Hello!!

Once again I have let too much time go between posts. You would have thought I would have had lots of time the last few days to such things!! We have been snowed in at Mark and Pat's since last Wednesday. We arrived Tuesday night in a successful attempt to avoid getting stuck at home for Christmas, now the tric appears to be getting home.

We are all doing fine and have enjoyed our stay at Grandma and Grandpa's. Can't believe another year has passed. It was filled with ups and downs for us but all in all are doing just fine.

We miss seeing alot of our friends. Seems like illness kept us from seeing people in September and October and November flew past. December was filled with activity that kept us close to home and now weather has prevented us seeing friends. Hopefully January will allow for more visits.

I have so much to share. I'm going to start with Madeline's 2nd grade Lost Creek Elementary School program.

A glimpse into Lillian's days.

2009-12-03T22:24:00.003-06:00

The following is an email I received from our sitter a couple of weeks ago. It made me giggle at work which is always good. L stand for Lillian and K stands for her friend. The following comments were made my the sitter. I just thought I'd share. I wish I had a picture of Lillian's face that she made. I can just imagine what it was.

L- I’m very mad at you
K- why
L- You don’t let me be the mom
K- I am the mom
L-you can’t be a mom you are a boy
L- I’m mad
K-okay
L- if you don’t let me be the mom tomorrow, I’m not going to be happy
K- Want to play with your monkey?
L-yes.
It was so funny.She was trying so hard to tell him how she was feeling and why she was angry with him and he was just a typical male…”okay”….then a change of subject. Conveniently, they are both young enough that neither really care or remember what they were angry about 5 minutes ago and they can just carry on with their day. I got a good laugh (to myself of course). I was very proud of Lillian for explaining, or trying as hard as she could, her emotions to Kaden! Good GIRL!!!

Fun with Aunt Uncle Ted, and Austin

2009-12-02T19:19:00.004-06:00

We traveled to my sisters for Thanksgiving. It had been a year since any of us had been to the west end of the state. The girls were thrilled to be going until 4 hours into the car ride which made the last 2 to 3 hours very long. Overall though they are good little travelers. They were even better on the way home because they both spent the majority of the time resting. I guess they wore the puppy out but the puppy must have worn them out!
The day after Thanksgiving we all went out to the fairgrounds where Uncle Ted and Austin taught the girls how to shoot archery and a BB gun. The adults got in on the action as well. Needless to say I was a little over dressed in my red paten shoes.

Madeline focused on her target. Uncle Ted helping.

I think the BB gun was taller than she is!
Savvy chasing down prey.

Serious at work.

Somehow Eric missed the red shoes.

Madeline taking aim.

Savvy, Austin's new lab (a.k.a the girls new love)

2009-12-02T19:02:00.002-06:00

Austin, my 13 year old nephew received his Christmas present early. A Chocolate Lab, Savvy. The girls mauled the poor puppy the whole weekend. She tried to find safety under the coffee table but would be dragged out before she could get settled. She is adorable. When Lillian saw the pictures tonight she asked when we would see Savvy again. I explained that Savvy would be bigger next time we see her. This brought tears and pleads that she not get bigger.

Trick-Or-Treat

2009-11-01T15:22:00.005-06:00

We had a great time. The weather was beautiful. The girls didn't have to even wear coats over their costumes. Grandpa and Grandpa Hudnall were with us for the day. Pat, the girls and I went to an auction in the morning and then I made chili with corn bread for dinner.
The costumes were dreamed of by Madeline. She came up with the idea to be Cincerella before and after the ball. Madeline helped grandma pick out fabric scraps for patches and helped sew them on. Madeline even thought of the idea to use a scrub bucket to collect her candy. She enjoyed having me put "dust" on her face, apron, and kerchief. She was a little disappointed when people didn't know who she was but was thrilled when somone "got it".
Lillian was a very pretty Cinderella who lost her slipper on the way home. Actually they both lost slippers on their way home.
Eli made a visit at the end of the night. He had asked if he could come see Lillian in her costume and she was excited for his visit. Cinderella gave a peck on his cheek when he left!! Julie, his mom said he was singing "Lillian is my girlfriend, before they came. Lillian was singing "Eli is my boyfriend", before they came. My hair is turning grey because of all this "love". But, they are cute:).

"Cinderella" before the ball and at the ball.

Getting treats at Allie's.

Grandpa and Eric's pumpkin carving skills.

Best buds. Quite the duo.

Madeline showing Grandpa how to wear his cap.

Love, Hudnalls

Tea Time

2009-11-01T15:14:00.003-06:00

When it was mom and dad's turn to be sick the girls entertained them selves with a tea party.

Picking Pumpkins

2009-11-01T14:45:00.003-06:00

On a rare weekend that one of us wasn't sick we traveled to Grandma and Grandpa Hudnalls. Even though the weather was a tad bit chilly we found a little pumpkin patch. The girls had fun pickin out their pumpkins and finding gourds to puchase.

Lillian's Birthday

2009-11-01T14:22:00.003-06:00

The princesses are playing Duck, Duck, Goose. Lillian and Eli made sure they were sitting next to each other, as close as possible.

Getting ready for cake.

Ready for the party to begin.

Enjoying the cake before it's baked!

I know it's a little late but thought I would try to catch everyone up on the happenings around here. Last month Lillian turned four. She had a princess party with one prince, Eli. He was a the honorary knight. We had to postpose the birthday party for one week because she had been sick. We've spent quite a bit of time this past month and a half with someone being sick. Hopefully we can put that behind us for a while!

More Miss Charlotte by Madeline

2009-09-28T20:21:00.002-05:00

After I wrote about Chalotte the other day we took more pictures. When it was foggy we could see her web. She was sitting above it waiting for a bug.

Miss Charlotte by Madeline and Lillian

2009-09-21T19:35:00.003-05:00

This is our spider, Charlotte. Charlotte is our pet spider. We found her on the corner of our house. She makes lots of webs. A few weeks ago she made a web on one side of the garage and then she made some more on the other side of the garage. She makes new webs when it gets all gunky. When we wake up and leave in the morning we look at her web. She sits in the middle and when we get close she crawls up to her hiding spot. Her hiding spot is the curve of our garage. For a couple of days we couldn't find her. Then Saturday Madeline saw her making this new web. We were very excited to see our friend again. We have seen her eat flies and butterfly.

Lillian wants to say, "I love Charlotte our pet."

Love Madeline and Lillian

Lillian's First Day of Dance.

2009-09-16T20:05:00.003-05:00

Lillian had her first dance lesson Tuesday. She was so excited. She had been counting down the days for quite awhile, asking me, "Is it dance day yet?" every morning.

TTFN

Delanie

Madeline's Blog

2009-09-15T19:38:00.004-05:00

Hello Everyone,
This is the first time I've ever blogged. I had taken alot of pictures and want to share a few with you. Tonight I chose to show you some of my friends.

This is my friend Clay. He thinks I'm pretty cool. I took this picture of him in his camper at the lake. We were giggling alot. This is his favorite book that he had with him.
These are my nieghbors, John and Don. Don lives behind us and John lives beside us. They are very nice. Don teases alot. John shakes his head at us.

This is our neighbor Gaylene. She lives behind us with Don. Lillian took this picture of Gaylene and her doll Bitty Baby.

This is Gaylene's brother, Willis. He was in his truck when I snapped this picture.

This Bria. Her nose was a little gross in this picture. She doesn't always look like this.

This is my friend Lexi. It was Easter when I took this picture. We like to hang out and sing Hannah Montana songs. She spends the night sometimes.

This is Paige, Lexi and Bria's sister. Paige is the oldest. She helps me carry my backpack from school. Her mom and my mom say I need to do it myself.

This is Lillian, my sister, and Reese a few months ago. This is an example of what can happen when the adults get busy. They had greasy kid make up everywhere!!

TTFN

Another entry to follow soon.

Madeline

Glass

2009-09-14T22:06:00.004-05:00

Saturday after we left the zoo we traveled downtown by the Qwest center the HotShops where our friend Whitney blows glass. Madeline had her camera and was busy clicking away. These are some pics she took. My camera was disabled at this point:). Not all these pieces are works by Whitney but it gives a good sampling of the items people make.
There are other shops and galleries in the building. Madeline being intersted in all things art found it all very fascinating. Even the "inappropriate" picture she found. OOPS!

Out of Darkness Community Walk

2009-09-14T21:48:00.002-05:00

We attended our 2nd suicide prevention and awareness walk on Sunday in Honor of our friend Chad. Chad died April 12, 2008. A day that changed all of us in ways that can't be explained. We all know that each of us has changed but so much is unsaid. We don't have to say it when we are together we just know it. Our friends mean so much to us, it can't even be described.

This year my cousin lost her best friend to suicide.

Until this last year and half I had no idea how often it occurred. Suicide is attempted every minute. Every 15 minutes one dies. A gaping hole is left in peoples lives.

I had facebooked that I was mad that I had to be at this event. And this is true but at the same time I am proud and hopeful that the money we raise can bring awareness to this plight. I came to this ah hah moment when I was talking to Julie before the walk. I had told her that I was mad that we were present. And I had mixed thoughts about the purpose of raising the money. I said, "No amount of money could have changed what happened so suddenly and abruptly". She reminded me that it's about awareness. Chad had shown us signs of depression and his wife was desperately trying to piece the puzzle together. Depression and Chad just didn't seem to fit.

Anyways, enough of my miscellaneous thoughts. I want to thank all of those who gave donations and know that I and all of our friends appreciate the help.

A small portion of our crew.

The ZOO

2009-09-14T21:17:00.003-05:00

This past Saturday we took a trip to the zoo. We were elated to get there. This was our first trip this year! The skyfari was alot of fun. The girls had a blast. We got to watch the baby orangatangs, hear a tiger roar, watch the seal lions be fed, and see the baby gorilla. Madeline had a blast taking pics. I'm going to make a special entry with her pics. It was a great way to spend an afternoon in September.

Picture Day

2009-08-28T07:54:00.002-05:00

It's picture day. I clicked a couple of pics before she left for school and thought I'd share them right quick.
Not much else has been going on. Just the usual hustle and bustle. My mom and dad were here Monday night for a quick visit and Madeline and Eric had their first soccer practice together Wednesday. The both looked pretty happy about it.
I get to drive the new Forester today so Lillian is looking forward to riding in the new car. She gets a little put out when Eric or I drive the old cars and leave the new one in the garage.
I think we are going to spend the night at the lake and then be home by 10:30 or 11:00 so that I can take the girls to shoe day at dance. They are both excited to get started with dance in a couple of weeks.

TTFN.

Delanie

Lillian's First Day of Preschool

2009-08-24T21:18:00.004-05:00

Today was Lillian's first day at Beginnings Preschool. I picked her up from daycare and got her dressed. She was really excited. I was doing pretty good. She was most excited about her new backpack. She was all smiles until ...... I left and then she looked a little nervous or bewildered. I was fine until then....that's when I got a little sad. Not even an hour later the teacher called me at work. This can not be good!! As it turns out the teacher just wanted to let me know I paid too much. Lillian was having a blast. She was all smiles when I got home. Madeline and Lillian had a blast comparing notes since Madeline remembers her days at the same preschool.

Hugs for mom!
I love my backpack.

Aren't I cute?

I'm going in all by myself!!

Ok, so my ribbon is giving me bunny ears but I'm ready!!

Giraffes

2009-08-24T21:09:00.003-05:00

When we went school shopping Lillian found a pair of fleece footed pajamas. She squeeled with delight. She was so excited because "they just like Madelines". Mine you, Madelines are summer pajamas. She held them all the way home and sure enough it was the first thing she needed to try on. And sure enough she has worn them almost every night since!! Doesn't matter how warm she gets. Next we'll have to find giraffe pajamas for Bitty Baby.

Madeline's First Day of 2nd Grade

2009-08-24T20:46:00.002-05:00

It's official, I'm not sure how this happened but she's a 2nd grader. The last year in the "little kid hallway" vs. the "big kid hallway". I can't believe it. She's gotten so grown up. Don't get me wrong she has her moments. God forbid she hits "the wall". She's very proud of herself these days for being a big helper. The other day I was listening to a conversation she was having with a friend while playing "house". Madeline said "You be the mom, I'm the teenager and I got asked on a date so I'm going to sneak out of the house." YIKES!!! Two things came to mind. Crap, she is going to pull the same stunts I did! And no more Hannah Montana!

One last hug for Lillian
Big girl.

All smiles.

Bye-Bye Birdies!! Hello Light!!

2009-08-23T16:29:00.003-05:00

Since we moved into our house 4 years ago we have battled the Starlings. The first year we thought all we needed to do was to shoot some firecrackers at them and clean off the sidewalk every weekend. Not so. The next two years the problem became worse. We got pooped on when we walked under the trees. People would avoid walking in front of our house. Cars cried at the thought of being parked under the trees. This year it was worse. No amount of spraying could keep the sidewalks at least passable. We couldn't let the girls play in front of the house and the flies were unbearable. We were nervous that someone was going to get sick!! My friend had feathers plastered all over her van when the wind blew while it rained. And poor Eric needed a dust mask to mow our yard!! I can't even descirbe the smell especially when it rained. You could smell it while sitting on our neighbors porch behind our house!! So.... even though the trees were pretty ( or could have been if you didn't notice the while all over them from the bird sh^&**^) and you hate to get rid of healthy specimens, they had to GO!! So, last weekend while grandma took Madeline school shopping in Omaha, Eric, his dad, and our friend Chris knocked them down. So.... here are before and after pics. I was really nervous that our house would look ugly without them but..... I think it passes mustard. Judge for yourself.

2nd Annual Alex's Lemonade Stand!!

2009-08-23T16:01:00.002-05:00

Last summer Madeline read a "story" describing a charity started by a pediatric cancer patient. The founder Alex had fought cancer. During her battle she decided to raise money for pediactric cancer awareness and research. Alex's family continues her mission by allowing others to host lemonade stands.

Madeline hosted her second "Alex's Lemonade Stand" in honor of our friend Charlie. Lillian also helped more this year. As usual this turned into a neighborhood effort with Don and Gaylene getting them set up while we were at work. Allie (babysitter) also played a crucial part helping Madeline make the posters and organize for the event.

I made cookies.....not my best but it was for a good cause. I'm not sure what happened. They all turned out flat. Tasted fine...just looked .....flat.

Anyways, the stand made $140.00 that evening and $210.00 with some donations people made in the coming days. For a seven year old I figure that's a pretty good job. It's a joy to watch their faces and watch them learn how to be a part of their community. Madeline took the money to the bank and sealed the envelope to send the money in to the foundation.

So proud

2009-08-23T15:40:00.003-05:00

My brother graduated this summer from UNK. We had a great time celebrating with him. We are very proud of him. The girls thought the hat and diploma were pretty cool. Thanks to all of his friends, family, and our friends that made it a special day for him.

Lillian playing with Bitty Baby

2009-08-23T14:30:00.003-05:00

Hello everyone!!
Again it's been way too long since I've blogged. I have several entries to make so I decided I needed to get busy.
This first one occurred a couple of weeks ago while I was home one morning with the girls. Lillian has loved Bitty Baby since she got her as a Christmas gift two years ago. She still loves her. Bitty Baby goes alot of places with her. The morning I caught this video was no exception. Bitty Baby was toy choice number one. She gets baths, walks in the stroller, swing time in the baby swing, diaper changes, wardrobe changes and lots of love!!

Nelson Family Reunion

2009-07-19T20:06:00.004-05:00

We had alot of fun at the reunion this weekend. Madline and Lillian can't stop talking about all their cousins. They were asking how long it was before we got to go see them again and figuring out how old everyone would be at the next reunion.
Madeline was quite the dare devil as she tried the zip line and loved it!! (Video below) She reports going five times but we think it was 4. Lillian became a fish before our eyes in the pool with water wings. The only blip was when she got lost in the maze of the locker rooms and couldn't fine her way out to the pool. She will tell you all about it when she sees you. Madeline was the critter catcher of the group. Toads, bus, fire flies, spiders...... She also enjoyed the pool. I was not very good at getting pictures of everything but I'm sure others did.
It was great to see everyone!!

Mom and Carla

Lillian getting ready for a canoe ride.

Madeline's big adventure.

The Fair

2009-07-19T20:01:00.003-05:00

Eric took the girls to the fair a while back. I stayed at home. They had a nice evening. Smiles all around.

More pics from the 4th....And this weekend.

2009-07-12T21:06:00.006-05:00

Sarah with Madeline and Lillian after the water fight and in all their glory.

The girls at the parade on the 4th.

This weekend we were at Mark and Pat's. Madeline was taking Grandma to Critter Camp. Critter camp had mixed reviews. Madeline was ready for a day of searching, cathcing, and most importantly touching/holding snakes. Grandma was not so sure about all of this but was good sport. Unfortunately, it did not live up to Madeline's expectations. She didn't get to search for anything, she didn't get to touch/hold any of the snakes, the fishing was lousy and they came home two hours early!! Madeline said she still enjoyed seeing and learning about the snakes and liked to see the fish at the aquarium but that was it!! Grandma let out a sign of quiet relief:).

When we got home Madeline started a water fight with David. David is our neighbor's guest from Sweden. He was Don and Gaylene's first foreign exchange student and returns for visits. Sarah (a friend of his and neighbor) was all too happy to help Madeline in her quest to start the water fight. In the end all were wet, including me, (I'll get you in two years David!!). After everyone was wet the girls played dress up with Sarah. Thanks Sarah for entertaining!!

Pics from the 4th.

2009-07-05T20:54:00.004-05:00

The boat ride with Ben at Leta's. Madeline at the helm....Scary!

The girls Friday night on the dock at the lake, before fireworks in Osceola.

Can't have the 4th without some watermelon!!

OK, despite not being in Crawford, we had a great weekend. We packed in a lot starting with a trip to Aurora to see great Grandma and Grandpa. We vistied, ate lunch, got grandpa signed up for a facebook account, and the girls took a spin with Grandma on Grandpa's scooter chair. We took the girls to the Plainsmen museum for a couple of hours which was fun for us and the girls. The girls like all the antique dolls and Eric and I enjoyed finding pictures of his great grandma and seeing his grandpa's display of railroad equipment.

Then we headed North to the lake for supper with Grandpa and Grandma Mark and Pat and then to Osceola to see the fireworks with G & G and Roger, Mandy, and Reese. We got home at 11:00 and crashed. The next morning we got up, prepared for the day, drove to Platte Center for the parade, came home, took naps, and made food for the party at the Jeffryes. When the food was all ready to go we head to Leta Greene's first and then joined the gathering at Jeffryes. I'm not sure how but the girls had a blast playing in the pool and with the water slide despite it being very chilly. Once they did get cold we started lighting fireworks. We had at least two hours of fireworks to light before it got dark and about 2 hours of fireworks once it got dark. Lilly was so tired she slept till 10:30 Sunday morning.

Sunday morning we decided to get out of the house and go swimming at the lake. So we gathered the essestials and joined Mark and Pat for some lake time.

It was a good weekend. Both girls asleep by 8:00 Sunday night. The sign of a fun filled holiday weekend.

The 4th

2009-07-05T20:10:00.002-05:00

I have come to the conclusion that when you are from Crawford Nebraksa, the 4th of July is part of your DNA. There was a certain aire about the hustle and bustle of Crawford as it could always sense the coming of the 4th. It seemed everyone anticipated the holiday. The air changed for at least a week before. Relatives from Georgia, Oregon and such fanciful places (to a girl from Crawford) would arrive. If we were really lucky our friends from Oklahoma would arrive early for wheat harvest. It was/is the biggest event the little town was/is known for.
Growing up the 4th was always the highlight of the summer. Big picnics, lots of relatives, lots of food, lots of fun. These are some memories from those years I still hold dear to my heart and wish I could recreate. Maybe not all of it but the best parts of it.
When I was younger I always looked forward to the watching the parade and then playing with cousins at my grandparents. I also recall watching a couple of my older cousins (Renee' and Deana) holding court in my grandpa's front yard, flirting with all the boys cruising by. Yes, as I became their age my best friend and I would hold that same court.
I recall all of my great aunts, aunts, and my dad's cousins cooking and preparing mountains of food. I am especially fond of the fried chicken everyone brought! It was also a day that I could gorge myself on pop. There were coolers full of it. Just as long as you knew which one's were pop and which one's were Barley!
As I got older I began taking part in the parade. Our 4-H club, Guys and Gals, and later Corn Valley, would spend many a late night creating floats. I think I could stuff green and white tissue paper into chicken wire in my sleep after those nights. There were also the times that I twirled baton in front of the high school band and then later played in the marching band.
There was always the curb wars that occurred for the prime parade watching real estate. Grandpa and Grandma lived on the corner where the parade turned to head down main street. It was the busiest part of the parade route. When I was younger Grandpa would often let us stay with him the night before the 4th and when I was older we stayed with him to help take care of him. Part of the gig was that you got poked early in the morning (about 5:00 a.m.) with a cane and told to hurry and get the lawn chairs out on the curb before the neighbors put their chairs out there. When I was older I really resented this as I had just laid my head down to try to get some sleep before I had to line up in the hot sun to march. SSHHH. Don't tell, I'm sure my parents and relatives don't know this:).
After the parade it was hours of picnicing, water fights with friends and cousins, walking down town, and seeing how much trouble you could get into without getting into too much trouble. Twoards the evening you had to get dolled up for the PRCA Rodeo. When I was little I just wanted to see the bull riding (because I wanted to see the clowns) and the fireworks. When I was older there were more things to worry about. :). Like finding a cute boy to dance with at the dance after the rodeo:).
Over the years the 4th routine has changed quite a bit. Once grandpa passed away we didn't have the house on the corner to stage the family picnic. We still feel displaced. We still like to view the parade from the same corner but our hearts ache just a bit when we can't just turn around and walk into the house and hang out on the porch people watching. Now, we gather a few relatives and head to park where everyone else without a cool house to hang out at gathers. I still beg Emily or Jackie to bring fried chicken. The 4th would not be complete without it.
My heart aches when I can't go home for the 4th. I missed it dearly this year. Growing up I didn't realize how much the rituals of the 4th defined how I viewed the holiday. Even though we had a great time trying to fill our weekend with fun I still missed my family and relatives and the feel of Crawford this weekend.
We had a great weekend and saw lots of great friends in our adopted town but truth be told I will always wish I was home on the 4th. I even had fried chicken. KFC but none the less, fried chicken. We watched a parade but no horses, bands or 4-H clubs. There were tractors and fire trucks which was good but not the same. The girls didn't notice because they were pleased with gathering loot! All-in-all a good weekend. But not Crawford on the 4th.

2009-07-01T21:30:00.001-05:00

Excuse my playing around. I'm trying to figure out how to blog from my phone.

I found some pictures!!

2009-07-01T20:08:00.004-05:00

This is a little peek at some of the action this summer.

Madeline in the crowd at dance camp.

These are a couple of bags Madeline decorated for the Relay in Memory of my best friends mom and Eric's best friends dad

Madeline's new haircut!! She had asked to cut her hair this summer so we thought we would try it. She loves it but I miss the pigtails!!

Lillian at the water park. Last year she couldn't crawl up the "tube" to slide down the ladder but this year it's no problem. She had a blast.

Hmmm.. This is suppose to be Eric, Madeline and Lillian. Didn't realize the color wasn't very good. Sorry.

Some more info from the past couple of Months.

2009-06-30T20:51:00.002-05:00

After I posted I realized I had left out some fun details!! One of the best being that Eric decided to host a gathering the day after I got out of the hospital. I'm not sure I had even showered yet....since Wednesday!!.....This was on a Saturday!! It was not my shining moment. I made an appearance and sheepishly slid back to my room where I stayed for the next two weeks:).
We also had a great weekend at the lake with Eric's sister, Melissa, her son, Connor, and husband, Chip. I couldn't believe we got so lucky with the weather. I was very nervous about going with the knee but all was well. Once again I failed miserable with the camera.
This last weekend we took part in the Columbus Relay For Life. What a great event. This was the first time I had taken part on a team to raise money. I had walked with my friend Shelly in one years ago but I don't remember raising money. This time I raised the money and sat on my rear for the event. Madeline did my walking, actually she walked with one of my team mates for almost an hour. She had a blast. She had fun finding the bags that we had decorated in memory or in honor of loved ones. Our team raised over $5,500. I look forward to next year.
The past few weeks have been interesting but if there is a silver lining it has been watching the girls take on more responsibility. Madeline especially has grown up before
my very eyes. She's a good nurse.
Delanie

WHoa!! It's been a while!!

2009-06-30T19:54:00.002-05:00

I can't believe I have abandoned my blog for this long!! There has been so much going on since I last posted.
I'll give you a quick glance.
After Madeline's dance recital the end of the school year approached as well as Memorial Day. As usual we were at "the lake" for the weekend with friends and family. It was a great weekend.
The girls went home with G & G Hudnall for the week so that I could undergo surgery. I had my ACL replaced and turned life as we know it up side down. OUCH!!! The first few days are simply described as misery and the rest is frustration and tiresome. At this point. I'm just tired of being a poor employee who needs help and can't get the work place mastered and being a sad excuse of a mom asking for everything from her bed in the evenings!! Don't get me wrong it's getting better and there is progress it's just been alot harder than even I imagined.
The fun news is that I get to do it on the other knee!! But first I have to figure out how to save up for a five to six week leave because there is no way I'm walking back into work this soon after the second one!!
Eric's time has been consumed with being both of us over the past month. He's looking forward to backpacking in August and getting away from me:)
The girls have been busy. I just picked Lillian up for the first time in weeks and couldn't believe how heavy she felt! She has enjoyed the summer with attending Bible school, daycare, swimming lessons, trips to the library and playing with Gaylene as much as possible.
Madeline has been even busier. She has attended Bible school, YMCA camp, Dance camp, swimming lessons, and I've lost track!! This next month she is going to attend a 4-H day camp with Grandma Hudnall called Critter Camp. She is thrilled because there will be snakes. She decided to take Grandma because she wanted to see if she could get her to touch one.
Unfortunately, I have been very bad about getting pictures and video lately. If I can I click a shot with my phone and upload it to facebook but I'm short on pics to share on the blog.
I promise I'll get better!
I can't wait to start my summer. What it's almost over!! #^*)

Dance Recital!!

2009-05-03T20:21:00.005-05:00

Madeline had her dance recital. It was the 25th year Lynette had put on a production. Alot of Alumni came back to dance with Lynette including a group of dad's that had danced with their daughters in the past. It was a great show with lots of fun surprises. One of them was the "balloon dance" Madeline's class performed. I say it was a surprise because none of the parents knew they were performing this number. All of a sudden our girls were dancing a routine none of had seen. It was so much fun. They were so proud of themselves for surprising everyone. The real surprise was at the end of the routine when all of the girls popped the balloons they were holding. They all had a needle taped to their finger on their left hand to pop the balloon at the end. The recital was a bigger event for this year as she had 3 dances plus the finale. The last two years she has only had one dance plus the finale.
The most nerve racking moments came after their first dance in the first half. One of the "helpers" back stage came to find in the audience saying I needed to come help Madeline find her second costume. When I got back stage they reported they couldn't find it and
needed me to go look for it in our car. I went back to my seat to get my car keys. Ran to the car... No costume.... ran back to the doors to tell them....they told me I needed to run home to make sure it wasn't there. We had to talk to security so that they knew who I was when I came back so that I could get the costume back stage. I drove home.... no costume.... I drove back and once again ran. Mind you I have one "bad" knee and the other one is worse with a torn ACL. They still couldn't find it. By the time I got back to the cafeteria where her group was they had located the costume but had hers on one fo the other girls and she was wearing one that was two sizes too big for her. All in all no harm done just some anxiety for me!! I knew I had carried that costume in. I'm determined not to trust "security" again to escort the dancer and the costume back stage next year!!
After the performance I made my way through security to "claim" her. Jill and I found her and Liza waiting. Madeline was in tears. She was sad it was over. And a little tired:). As we were walking out to the hall to meet all our loved ones she told me she had to find Allie. Allie is our babysitter during the summer and school breaks. She was desperate. It turns out she thought this year was Allie's last year of dancing and she was frantic to get a picture with her. I told her Allie was going to be dancing 4 more years but we still needed to find her. I called Allie on her cell phone and she was just leaving with her mom so we met them in a parking lot so we could get a hug and a pic. This is the first picture below.
Last, I want to say thank you to Lynette for caring about all the students she cares for. I would also like to thank all those who love Madeline and make her feel special on this day and every day. Thanks Jill for getting Madeline to the weekly lesson and figuring out how to break into our house when we forget the dance bag and for keeping me informed of all the goings on at dance. We couldn't make this work without you. Thanks to all the family and friends who come for this event. And know that we think about those not here with us and know that you would be if you could. Okay, enough with the Oscar acceptance speech:)

Allie and Madeline together at last.
After the show gathering flowers from loved ones!

A teary smile. Proud, tired, and anxious to find Allie. Madeline on the right Liza on the left.

Splish Splash!! I was taking a bath.

Having fun posing after everyone else left to stand in line for seats and Mom and Madeline were alone waiting for the time to leave. Yes, they had to leave before she did!!

Getting our hair done with Lisa. She was in all her glory. She had a Starbucks Vanilla Bean Frappachino, carmel popcorn (from Lisa) and a mirror and sparkles. What else could a girl want!! Her friend Liza was next in line. So Madeline got her some popcorn as well.

As always, love you all. God Bless. Sorry for typos:)

Birthday Pics

2009-04-30T21:28:00.003-05:00

YES!!! I got them!! Apparently it doesn't like to load more than two or three pics at a time. These aren't in order but you get the jist.

Happy Birthday Madeline!!

2009-04-30T20:33:00.003-05:00

Phew!! It has been a pretty busy couple of weeks!! I've been squeezing in some rehab getting ready for ACL surgery at the end of May. I've also been working quite a few hours for the nursing home I contract with. This makes for some busy days. In the mean time we've had soccer games, birthday parties, birthday dinners, packed for a trip to the lake, unpacked the next morning when we decided the weather was to icky to go to the lake, scrapbooking, playing Wii Fit, (okay, not me but I've been watching Madeline, Lillian, and Eric play Wii Fit). This weekend we have dance recital, and a wedding in Omaha on Sunday. My Relay For Life team is also hosting a fund raiser this weekend that I need to make cookies for. In the midst of all this Lillian has been struck by a bug that has kept her feverish, tired, and stuffy for over a week. Now she has an ear infection along with the dog Biscuit!! Is anyone tired just reading this!!!

Madeline's Birthday was great. She had an American Girl Party. All 15 girls brought their favorite doll. They played, ate cake and ice cream, intorudced their dolls to one another, opened presents, and watched an American Girl Movie. I couldn't believe how quiet and entertained they all were during the movie. I thought for sure a group would not want to finish wathcing the movie. They were so good. I'll try to include a picture of the invite that I made. This was my first "scrap booking" project. We owe a huge thanks to Mike and Trina for hosting the party at their house. They have a family movie theater that was perfect for the event! Thanks! Her prize possessions are her new clothes for her dolls and the ipod shuffle from Grandpa and Grandma.

Sorry for any typos and I hope to more to all of you before too long. We'll have new bedroom furniture for Lillian to share and pictures/video from dance recital!

Unfortunately since we got new software with the new camera I occasionally run into a snag and can't get pictures to upload to the site. So..... I will try to get his figured out and until then you can just imagine Madeline's smile on her birthday. Sorry.

Cheering

2009-04-13T20:33:00.003-05:00

Just a video of Madelin showing off her cheering abilities. Apparently she is a cheerleader during recess while the boys play football. Yikes we are in trouble!!

Easter

2009-04-13T19:52:00.003-05:00

I hope you all had a Very Happy Easter. We were very quiet around here. We enjoyed the Easter services and had fun hunting eggs the Easter Bunny hid while we were at church. This was the latest the Bunny had ever been coming to our house so he must have been a very busy bunny at all of your houses. The girls were dressed in their Easter dresses my Grandma Pat. They are beautiful dresses. Thanks Grandma!!

You might be able to see Madeline's fat lip. Actually by this time it wasn't as fat as it had been. She took a nasty spill on her bike Friday night. Needless to say eating as Lazlos Friday was not fun for her. Or wait maybe it was since supper consisted of lemonade, ice cream, cottage cheese, and marichino (spelling?) cheeries.

Happy Hopping!

Delanie

Chicks

2009-04-05T13:19:00.004-05:00

Hello,
I know it has been awhile so i am going to try to catch you up. Two weeks ago the farm girl came out in my and we came home with three Chicks. Meet, Helen, Chickypoo, and Helen. The girls have enjoyed them a great deal. They help feed, water, and take care of them. Chickypoo got sick and is no longer with us. They are starting to look more like chickens now. Helen flew out of their "box" today so now we have to make sure that can't happen so that Biscuit doesn't take a bite!! UHG, that would not be good. We have them for one more week then our friend Duane is going to collect them:)

Dora, Dora, Dora the Explorer!!

2009-03-18T18:37:00.004-05:00

Today, I took the day off to take Lillian to Dora. We were able to go with our friends Jill and Isabel. As you can see Isabel was a little shy when the camera came out. They had a blast and we are now hearing bits and pieces of it running through our house. It was a great day. We went to the Cheesecake Factory for lunch and came home. It was a great day for getting home early so that we could play outside. As you can see in the last pic the show and the lunch were enough to dicatate a good nap on the way home. They tried to watch Nemo and changed to two other movies trying to stay awake but the tired eyes won.

Reading, and Lake and Spring Break

2009-03-18T18:13:00.004-05:00

Last weekend was a great couple of days. On Sunday we drove out to the lake to help with preperations for the upcoming year. The lake is looking great. Madeline and Duane found a large grape vine to swing from. Madeline did a lot of exploring in the "woods" and even found some treasures. She ended up staying there Sunday night with Grandpa and Grandma and came home Monday. This week is spring break. No big plans, just enjoying the weather.

The down side of our little trip to the lake was that my blew my "goood" knee while clearing brush. So, I'm nursing that one and hoping the other one stays put. It's slowly feeling better; weak and swollen but better.

Saturday night we found Madeline "reading" to her self. It was really funny to hear her snoring.

Update and Relay For Life

2009-03-14T20:31:00.002-05:00

Hello!!
I'm sorry I haven't posted for a while. Things are just ho hum. Madeline had her school program this past week. It was very nice. The kids did a great job.
I've been busy raising money and helping my Relay For Life team "Our Family Tree". I created a facebook page and am excited about attending our first big fund raiser, Scrappin' for a Cure. I have never scrapbooked before but figure I can give it a whirl! I'm not sure yet what project I'm going to take on. I'm actually thinking of trying my hand at creating some cards for friends etc. The ribbon I posted at the top of the blog is for Childhood Cancer Awareness. I have a friend/co-worker whose daughter was diagnosed with cancer two years ago today. Charli has been an inspiration for Madeline as well. This past summer she and the babysitter, Allie held a lemonade stand and donated the proceeds to Childhood Cancer Treatment and Awareness. I've lost many other loved ones as well and honor all of them in this endeavor. My sister's father-in-law has recently been diagnosed with lung cancer and given 6 months. In December we lost Roger David when he lost his battle with cancer after 3 three years of fighting. And the list goes on.... I really do have plenty to fight for and remember. So keep posted as I share more thoughts and ways you can help our team, "sow the seeds of help."
We are looking forward to Spring. We grilled tonight and are going to the "lake" tomorrow. And so it begins the ritual of spending time at the lake.....
This week is Madeline's spring break. We have no big plans as we want to spend some vacation time later this summer. But I am taking Wednesday off to take Lillian to see a "Dora the Explorer" Live stage show. She is very excited and is hoping to talk to Dora. I'll keep you posted.
Anyways, other news: We are excited for Roger and Mandy as they are expecting twins!! We are praying for Chris' grandfather who had a terrifying accident on a ditch witch. We keep Janelle and her family in our prayers. We are thankful Lillian was not as seriously ill as we thought last week when I rushed to the ER. I thought she was experiencing an asthma attack and since this was the first time I had seen her struggle with this I ended up rushing her to the ER. In the end just a really bad virus.
This probably wasn't too exciting but I think there will be lots to write about soon!!
Take Care and don't let those sneaky little green guys get the better of you!

2009-02-15T18:20:00.003-06:00

This is the first time I've tried this. I wanted to show the Valentines the girls sent to some friends. They were made by a friend/co-worker who loves to scrap. The
y turned out so cute. I wish we could have sent more!! I think Natalie might have choked me if she had to make any more!!
http://scraprat-scraptastic5.blogspot.com/2009/02/time-for-valentines.html

Lillian's moves

2009-02-15T08:19:00.004-06:00

Eric cuaght this video of Lilly last night during our first supper of the evening. He posted it on his facebook page but I thought I'd post it here too. I say first supper because just as we were finishing Mike called and told us he had seafood for us. He insisted Eric come by and pick it up. So Eric drove over there walked up to the door got handed a plate of food and came home. The result; two lobsters and a bunchof mussles. Thanks Mike!! It was yummy and a great Valentine's Day sup.

One more thing!

2009-02-14T13:56:00.003-06:00

Last weekend Grandpa made part of Madeline's closet into a section for all of her American Girl Doll Clothes for Felicity and Elizabeth. The hangers just arrived so I thought I'd share the end result. Madeline loves it. The red and green dresses in the middle along with the pajamas at the right end were created by Grandma Pat.

Pics, goings ons and what-nots!

2009-02-14T13:17:00.004-06:00

Sorry about that title. Just felt like being silly. In true Nebraska fashion we've had spring like weather one weekend and winter wonderland the next. So the pics I'm sharing today are pics of the skirts that Grandma Pat made for the girls that they received last weekend, Madeline during a piano lesson, and Lillian playing out side with Daddy today.

Lillian wore her skirt to her Valentine's Day party at preschool and Madeline prefers to make hers into a go go dress complete with sparkly red shoes. Madeline and Lillian also received valentine belts from Aunt Melissa that have been put to use. Grandma Trudy also got into the action with sending a Littlest Pet Shop toy for Lillian that she has hardly put down and a Loop Craft set for Madeline to make potholders with. She at this very moment is diligently at work creating one with Gaylene. All in all a good couple of weekends.

Dance!!

2009-02-04T21:35:00.002-06:00

Madeline had Parent Day at Dance. They are getting ready for their recital in May and working very hard. Sorry this is side ways. I love the wiggle!!

Super Bowl Fun

2009-02-02T21:16:00.010-06:00

This weekend we were able to join our friends for their annual Super Bowl Party. This is the 19th year they have hosted this event. It gets bigger every year and we are so fortunate to be part of it. The girls love playing with all their friends and seeing what kind of havoic they can raise but they are up against some stiff competition with the adults. By the time Sunday morning rolls around the house is more of a mess from the adults than the kids!! The adults are also in rough shape while the kids are feeling perky, jumping on the adults and making everyone remember how old we are!! The festivities usually get under way Friday but we join the fun Saturday afternoon and stay till Sunday evening. For us, we leave early before the game starts as we usually have two very tired girls and one who has to go to school the next morning!! Lilly fell asleep at 5:30 in the car and never woke till 7:00 a.m. and Madeline fell asleep at 6:00, woke briefly to change and brush teeth and then didnt' wake till 7:00. They both did fine today.

The first three pics are Sunday set up at the showroom. Followed by pics of Madeline, Lillian, and Reese in the p.j.'s Pat made for them. Followed by one that Pat will be especially proud of.... me and John trying to highjack the beer. The final two are shots of Madeline and Reagan (we are all in trouble...look at those poses!), and Lillian holding Tatum.

TTFN

It's coming , I promise.

2009-01-27T11:19:00.003-06:00

To all of those that keep looking to see if there is anything new on this blog, I promise I will get something on here soon. We've just been taking it easy and trying not to have a whole lot on our plates. I'm sure this will soon be changing as we have fun activities and things to attend in the next few weeks. Thanks for checking!!

The forgotten gift.

2009-01-11T17:24:00.002-06:00

On our way to church this morning I came to the realization that January is one of my favorite months. I always forget how much of a present it is. It seems like November and December and busy and filled with fun but then there's a pause..... January. Quiet. I have found this to be true for a couple of years now and realize it's like the forgotten or ignored present left under the tree to be opened when the Christmas decs are packed away. Just a thought.
Congrats AMY!!

Lilly

2009-01-04T10:12:00.005-06:00

These are some clips of Lilly that we thought we would share. The first one is dark but is nothing else you can hear her. The second one was inspired because she is infatuated with a little boy she knows and the last couple of days she has decided he would enjoy teac parties, games, and who knows what else. I'm sure these are just what he would like to be doing Like I've said before we are in so much trouble! Enjoy!

Dolls, Dolls, Dolls!!

2009-01-02T19:29:00.004-06:00

Today Madeline had a tea party with a friend, Elizabeth, who has two American Girl Dolls. Madeline also has two. Ironically, they both "Elizabeth". Needless to say they had fun. There were enough clothes to fill a full size suitcase! Ok, maybe not quite. They both have the doll beds to go with their respective dolls and both have horses for their dolls. They started their afternoon off with making mini pizza's for lunch and then dressed the dolls and themselves for a tea party. The last pic is on of Madeline's dolls and Lillian's Bitty Baby dressed in the replica's of the girls Christmas dresses. Pat sewed the green last year to match last years dresses and the red one's match this years dresses.

Tea Party in Progress

Kit and Felicity got elected to sit at the little table.

Making the tiny treats for the tea party.

So much fun! They were quite serious about this creative process.

All in all a good Friday!

GOOD RIDDANCE

2008-12-31T17:54:00.002-06:00

OKay, I've been waiting for awhile to wish 2008 good bye for good. We hope to God that 2009 is a calmer more enjoyable year. While we enjoyed finding our love our daughters and each other growing we could have done without alot of the crap that happened. It taught us never to take friendships, and family for granted. It taught us a bigger meaning of family. So... Here's my toast with more meaning than ever before. TO FAMILY!! Let's all take care of each other and remember the love we feel for one another forever!
Delanie

Christmas Memories

2008-12-29T19:29:00.006-06:00

We hope you all had a very Merry Christmas and were able to enjoy the company of loved ones. We had a wonderful week of Christmas. The girls had a great time waiting for Santa, finding the presents, and playing with all their new treasures. Here are pictures to outline our week. We spent Christmas Eve at Great Grandma and Grandpas and then headed to Grandpa and Grandma Hudnalls for Christmas Day.
1. The first is a picture of Christmas morning after lots of presents had been torn into to. Lilly just received her gift from Madeline. 2. That smile says it all doesn't it? This was Madeline's joy at finding Felicity in the box. Felicity is Madeline's 2nd American doll and ther first dolls friend. 3. Christmas Stockings. Santa was very generous! 4. Gifts under the tree. Note: Felicity and Elizabeth's beds and Lillian's mouse house. 5. Another great smile Christmas Eve morning while we were waiting for Santa to come. 20 hours and counting. 6. Daddy needed a picture of his girls in front of the tree at our house the evening of Madeline's Christmas program. 7. The only picture of the girls with Santa. Ahh the joys of living in Nebraska. We sent Daddy out in the 20 below winds to save a place in line. Then when we got inside to see him this was only picture that we got to snap before the camera died because of the cold.
That was it in a nutshell. HO! HO! HO!

Mele Kalilimaka!!! Merry Christmas!!!

2008-12-21T14:53:00.008-06:00

Well.... I gave up trying to get a Christmas Card sent out. I was going to try but the girls weren't cooperating for pictures so I scrapped that idea. I was going to try to make a slideshow but I worked on it for 2 hours with no results and alot of frustration so that was no good either. Soo here it is....just plain pictures.

This year has been busy. The girls are growing and the blog is a great way to try to keep up with them. We love them and cherish them will all our hearts. Madeline is enjoying 1st grade and Lillian is enjoying her play group.

Eric and I were lucky enough to be invited to go to Hawaii with some friends earlier this year. That was the best highlight from this year.

Take care. We love all of you.
Delanie, Eric, Madeline and Lillian.

Favorite Quoates of the weekend!

2008-12-21T13:43:00.002-06:00

Lilly,
This was in the context that we had told her we were going to Grandma's house yesterday to drop off some packages. She was having a hard time realizing that G & G weren't home and that we wouldn't actually see them. After we said this we changed our minds and decided that the girls and I would shop while Eric went to their house. When we got back in the car and we headed home we called Grandma. She told us that they were having Christmas in California that day. When I got off the phone I told the girls G&G were having Christmas. Lilly gets a frown on her face and says, "Awww, we were almost there! I want Christmas.". She continued to frown while I tried to explain that they were going to come home to have Christmas with her in a couple of days. She was not so sure.

Madeline
Madeline has gotten to know a family down the street whose daughter is in college. Sarah was home this weekend and Madeline saw her scooping snow and decided to go help. She told Sarah, "You go first and I'll follow....I'll get what you missed.". Then she wanted to know when Sarah would be going back to school. Sara told her that she was going to be here for 3 weeks. Madeline said "Do you wanna hang out?" Sarah said they could have a girls lunch and movie. Madeline said "and make a snow man". We are in so much trouble!!

Lilly
Last night when we got home from shopping Gaylene was going to stop by just to visit and see the girls. Lillian was waiting for and her and asked "Where is Gaylene? She has to help me pick up my mess!". Yikes. Can we just say wrapped around her finger? Trouble x2.
TTFN

Gymnastics

2008-12-21T13:10:00.006-06:00

This is a video of Madeline doing some one of the exercises at gymnastics.

BLog Award and the Importance of socks!

2008-12-17T20:17:00.003-06:00

Hello,

As I was reading the blogs I follow I found out that once again my friend Rachelle has bestowed the honor of an award for me. The only problem is that you are suppose to pass on to 10 other people. Here's the deal. I don't have 10 other blogs to give the sward too!! So I'm going to give it Amy and again encourage the non-bloggers, specifically but not limited to Shelly, Melissa G., Melissa C., Trina, and Mandy to get busy and create one of their own!! Please!!! I implore you. You'll love it I promise. Bloggers everywhere please tell them this is so. Thank you, thank you Rachelle for the award.

Okay, this is for the other topic in the title. I don't know how many of you know this about me but my feet are officially known as Popsicle sticks from this month till at least the middle of April. Some of you have heard me speak about how important socks are to me when I go camping. They are just as important to me now as they are when I'm camping. They are probably more important to Eric:). So this is a shout out to my socks!! Hip Hip Hurray!! Who knew socks could be used as mittens, ear muffs, insulation, head bands, and tied together they make lovely scarves!! At this very moment there are three pair trying to keep the Popsicles to a soft freeze and Lillian is finding them helpful at night to help with breaking her thumb sucking habit. Every new person that comes the lake for the first time in the spring months is given the sage advice to pack lots of socks. Those that have taken the advice give me kuddos by the middle of the weekend. Anyways, just thought I'd give you all some food for thought.

TTFN!! ALOHA (couldn't resist)

How did this happen?/Random thoughts.

2008-12-16T21:53:00.006-06:00

It seems not long ago I was bragging that I had all my Christmas shopping nearly completed. All of a sudden I realize I've got about 6 presents to find!!! Yikes. We are also nervous that the oldest daughter is not going to be excited by one of the presents as she has recently informed us that it is not her top pick. Her top pick was not on the radar until three weeks ago. At the time we tried to down play her desire but it is now at a fevered pitch. She usually tells me some of it's selling points at breakfast and then reiterates them for Eric at supper. Oh well. After much lamenting by Eric and myself we have decided it's healthy to experience disappointment on Christmas!!! Just kidding. It will be ok though right?? I'm going to keep you in suspense and you'll have to tune back in after Christmas to see how it goes.
We wrapped up quite a few of the presents tonight. I still can't believe I'm in this shopping crunch. I also can't believe we haven't seen Santa and we haven't got pictures taken for a Christmas card, or any baking to speak of done. It looks like this weekend is a bit more hectic than I wanted. Tis the season!!
Anyways, we had an ok weekend last week. We got to spend lots of time with Roger, Mandy and Reese, took in some Christmas lights, attended church, and completed alot of laundry. I'd still rather be on vacation. It seemed weird at the time but I think I could get use to celebrating Christmas at a church in warm weather!! I think this cold weather is pay back. Oh well, I guess we'll have a white Christmas.
This is a picture from 2005. Madeline 3.5 and Lillian 3 months. Just a favorite.

One more thought. Just thought I'd let you know Lillian's favorite carol is "Rum pum pum" other wise known as "Little Drummer Boy". And Madeline has a whole host of favoriteS too numerous to list. Imagine that!

See you soon

2008-12-09T12:34:00.005-06:00

Well, we are wrapping up our trip. This is our last day on the island and tomorrow we'll be traveling and trying to prepare for cold. Since I've lived in a swim suit, and no shoes for the past week this could be quite the shock. Eric and I found a deserted beach yesterday which was gorgeous. It was great. I'll put a couple pictures of that on here. The middle picture is us at a beach on the North shore where the waves were really fierce. It was a really fun time as we were knocked around by them. We were laughing so hard we had a hard time standing up before the next wave came. We did have a little bit of a snafu last night. We had gone to a beach to snorkel over to an island called Chinamens hat. When we got back two hours later we found our vehicle broken into and several bags missing. We are trying to just take care of what we need and enjoy today. They basicly only got my beach bag with towels and my glassess. So I'm wearing sunglasses which is kind of interesting at night!! I'm going to see if I can get a pair at near by Lens crafters so that I don't have to wear sunglasses to work. :) We are going to find a beautiful beach to sit on. Here are some pics from the last couple of days. ALOHA from Team Aloha.
P.S. Madeline and Lillian, Daddy is going to bring you a cocunut that he got fromt the front yard!!

More Aloha!!!

2008-12-05T21:31:00.002-06:00

ALOHA!!

2008-12-05T21:26:00.001-06:00

Living in Paradice

2008-12-05T21:14:00.004-06:00

What can I say..... This is the coolest experience besides having kids in my life!!!! Ihave become an impassioned snorkler and have decided that any vacation from here on out must include the ocean. Loving every minute. Madeline, we found you some rocks, volcanic, coral, and some shells. We saw all kinds of cool creatures today. My favorite include the "Christmas fish" which is neon in color and a black with white spots all over. I am salivating at getting to go shopping but we have a lot of beach to cover yet!! These are all pictures from Thursday when we ate at a famous doughnut maker and hiked Diamond Head. I'm going to make some more entries so I can send more pics. Love you all!! ALOHA!!

Ramblings

2008-12-01T22:18:00.003-06:00

Well, this holdiay went seemingly smooth. We had a wonderful time with Eric's parents and grandparents and my brother Coyde, we ate delicious food, had fun shopping, got to see Janelle, Austin, and Ted the day after, and spent lots of time enjoying each other. Of course I had my camera but in true Delanie fashion didn't use it. So, the pics are limited. I did catch a few of Lillian in several different costumes so I'll try to get those on here before long. I got too excited about changing the blog for Christmas and didn't realize what time it is getting to be.
We came home Saturday and started getting prepared for vacation. I can't believe how in control I feel with two exceptions: we thought we lost Madeline's American Girl doll, Elizabeth. After panicking and searching everywhere we finally found her in the box she came in!! It was on the highest shelf of an entertainment center in our basement where I store some boxes for things that I want to keep..... Who knows.
The other exception is a bit more serious. We received news that our friend's father passed away today. He had fought cancer for four years. The original prognosis was weeks so to have four years was a blessing. It makes us terribly sad that we have lost him.
Roger and Mandy, we are sorry for your loss. Roger (senior) is in a beautiful place and at peace without pain. He will watch over you always. Take care and know that you and your family are in our thoughts and that as soon as possible we will be with you. We are sorry we will not be with you the next few days. God Bless.