tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55840520385100937622024-03-13T03:27:24.666-04:00My Random ThoughtsMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02684266530675532311noreply@blogger.comBlogger363125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584052038510093762.post-45131788379857939422013-02-17T17:47:00.000-05:002013-02-17T17:49:02.990-05:00:-)Thought I'd forgotten again, didn't you?
It's okay. I did. Sometimes I forget to write here because I post on Facebook.
But today. Today I am thankful.
I am thankful that we found a church -- and have stuck with going. It is so easy to think "we're only going to be here for a year. does it really matter?" It does. I seem to be needing to hear the messages lately. Just makes me know that I am being taken care of by a power so much bigger than myself. Even if I think I'm taking care of things... I am reminded to be still and wait.
I am thankful for a daughter who will fix me a cup of coffee on a Sunday morning and bring it to me in bed. Just like I like it :-)
I am thankful that Rob gave me an iPod touch for Valentine's Day. He says that it is because he was tired of me getting frustrated with my old 3rd generation iPod nano that he sent me (from Iraq) in 2007. I know that it's just because he wants me to be happy.
I am thankful that G wants to "chat" with me on the iPod. Even if we are sitting four feet from each other. I always answer whatever she asks/says. I figure that if she wants to talk now, maybe she'll come to me in the future with her not so unimportant topics. That is my prayer, anyway!
I am thankful that we are refinishing a church pew. Hopefully it will turn out how it looks in my head - ha!
I am thankful for kids who have been tv free all day -- mainly because they are making up a play to perform for us tonight.
I am thankful for family memories of stirring giant pots of brunswick stew with an oar as well as barning tobacco.
I am thankful for Rob -- who turns on a heating pad and puts it on my side of the bed to warm up the sheets before we get into bed.
I am so thankful.Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02684266530675532311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584052038510093762.post-33654890637874563402013-01-25T10:56:00.000-05:002013-01-25T10:56:24.766-05:00ThankfulsToday I am thankful for:
1) great kids who call me mom! What a blessing they all are! They are sweet, loving, and crazy. They drive me insane and can make my eye twitch, but they also help me to realize that I am not yet the woman that I am to become. A woman worthy of their love who has lots more patience than I do today :-)
2) a great husband who lets me stay at home with our kids. He works hard for us and I don't ever want to be unappreciative of him!
3) my steam cleaner. I really was worried about some spill spots on the carpet. I did the canned Resolve stuff and it seemed to make them more obvious. Steam cleaning this week and the spots are gone! Woohoo!
4) we have less than five months left in Alabama! I'm ready to get back to my green family!!
5) the dishwasher and the washing machine. Seriously, could you imagine life without these helpers?!?Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02684266530675532311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584052038510093762.post-22386154313249703382013-01-16T15:45:00.002-05:002013-01-16T15:45:31.270-05:00Falling behind... but still here :-)
For the past few days, I have been thankful for Zomig (migraine med). A cold front stalled over the area and wreaked havoc on my head!
I am thankful for:
1) FUMC MDO (First United Methodist Church Mother's Day Out) program. Sam now goes three days a week and is having the best time! This morning he said "Mom, I get to go to school today!" with such excitement. Not like the big three... "Mom do I have to go to school today?!?"
2) morning routines that don't involve me shouting at somebody. Unfortunately, they don't happen too often.
3) random visits from family. Cousin Sandy stopped by today -- to bring G some arrows from dad. I haven't had random visits from family since moving from NC in early '07!
4) photo kiosks. Seriously. I waited 90 seconds for a picture today -- when I remember having to wait a week for a roll to be developed back in the day. Yay for modern technology.
5)eBook/audiobook checkout from the local library. I do find it weird that you can check out an eBook and that it will "expire" in two weeks. How does the computer know that?!? I haven't done the audiobook checkout yet. I'm scared it will mess up iTunes when it tries to "return" the book! Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02684266530675532311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584052038510093762.post-14962872082476692832013-01-12T23:05:00.000-05:002013-01-12T23:05:56.272-05:00ThankfulsI am so thankful for:
*my great husband ... who is currently at a Cub Scout campout with 300 6-10 year olds
*the great parks in Montgomery. Some are hard to find, but always nice
*movie night
*weather that calls for parks and flip flops --- in January!
*modern cell phones. I love that I can get instant pictures of Bubba climbing on the USS Alabama, even though they are 3 hours away.
*my Pack. I <3 NCSU -- and loved loved loved the win over Duke today!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02684266530675532311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584052038510093762.post-82911835946518348342013-01-08T22:43:00.001-05:002013-01-08T22:46:21.761-05:00Tuesday's ThankfulsToday I am thankful for :
1) no afternoon/evening activities (Monday's are both girl scouts and cub scouts... we all go different directions!)
2) cooking a meal where everybody eats with minimal complaining (and keeps everybody full -- thank you, quinoa!)
3) suduko after the kids go to bed
4) school projects that take two weeks -- and I actually remember to start them on time! Yes, I know they aren't *my* projects...but when the project is "carve an apple and let it sit for two weeks" then my part (remembering to get an apple) is essential to getting the project started on time :-)
5) libraries. The public library here leaves a bit to be desired... but the last two times I went, they had what I wanted!
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02684266530675532311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584052038510093762.post-57789640845399846432013-01-06T23:05:00.001-05:002013-01-06T23:05:24.292-05:00Weekend thankfulsSo... guess who's been under the weather? Yeah... this gal. Not super sick, but I'll just say that one or two days a month, I'm pretty miserable. Ahem...
So this weekend I am thankful for
1) Kleenex with lotion
2) football games on Tv (because it means I can lay on the couch)
3) hot showers
4) sweet girls who will make me hot tea and fix it just like I like!
5) sweet boys who make sure I'm not lonely -- and will come snuggle up with me (as long as football is still on - ha!)
6) a sweet husband who took all four kids to Bass Pro so I could take a quiet nap
7) popcorn snacking after the kids are in bed :-)
8) our favorite family tv show came back on tonight -- Once Upon A Time. Have you seen it?!?
9) yoga pants -- ahhhh...Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02684266530675532311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584052038510093762.post-40850736920167807692013-01-04T09:57:00.001-05:002013-01-04T09:58:23.188-05:003 Jan thankfulsA little late... but it was a stressful day
Today I am thankful for:
1) a light sleeping Grace who came to tell me at midnight that the boys' room light was on instead of just turning it off herself. That is the only reason I got up and found Sam with a high fever (103.3).
2) so thankful to be a sahm -- so I didn't have to make any arrangements to be home taking care of Sam all day.
3) a house with a playroom -- which quickly turns into the "sick room"
4) a receptionist at the hospital who broke SOP to give us an urgent care referral (normally not given if there is an appointment available within 24 hours...which would have had Sam going on 36 hours of feverby the time he saw a doctor). This ensured he got Tamiflu into his system at the earliest possible time to fight the flu!
5) medical professionals who seem to have to put up with way more "junk" than they should. At the urgent care, I saw a nurse handle a rude patient (ie cursing her out for something outside of her control) with extreme class and grace. Made me try to be overly appreciative of them!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02684266530675532311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584052038510093762.post-70965174732706247392013-01-02T22:49:00.001-05:002013-01-02T22:49:46.975-05:002 Jan ThankfulsToday, I am thankful for:
1) the automatic coffee maker Santa gave me. Seriously sets my morning out better when I smell the coffee before even getting out of bed!
2) morning hugs from my kids that end up with at least two of them sitting within 2 feet of me :-)
3) catching up on laundry -- I know, I know. My life is full of excitement!
4) one last day of winter break. Lazy movie watching morning turned into an impromptu trip to Bass Pro (to check out bows and handguns -- again... the excitement continues) and ending with Mexican dinner out this evening. Lovely day :-)
5) watching random football games with Rob and the boys. I love when they are surprised when I know some random football fact :-)
6) $3 Justin Briber wrapping paper being marked down to $0.90 and having a ten year old who wants it so bad! And an eight year old who wants to throw it out so bad - ha! We'll see who ends up on the better end of that one!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02684266530675532311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584052038510093762.post-70982401508590874472013-01-01T18:14:00.000-05:002013-01-01T18:16:43.016-05:00ResolutionsHmmmm...2013. Where'd you come from?!?
This year is already full of awaiting adventures. We know we will be moving, once again. Always an adventure! We know the kids will be switching schools, once again. We know we will be looking for a new church home, once again. All things to get nervous about -- be things to look forward to as well.
I am going to start the new year with a positive attitude. The easiest way for me to keep a positive attitude is to eliminate some of the negative in my life (like a massive Facebook friend overhaul, as a start) and make a purposeful EFFORT to focus on the good. The blessings of everyday life.
So that means... trying once again at my daily thankfuls. I'm even setting an alarm this time to do better!
1 Jan 13 - Thankfuls
1) I am thankful for having one kid (F) who at least tried to stay up until midnight last night. Though, I woke her to watch the giant Moonpie drop "babe, look! The moonpie is about to drop" and she barely looked at the screen and said "good for it" then walked to her room.
2) I am thankful for sleeping until 9:30... then having three kids hop in bed with me and watch a movie (G slept another hour)!
3) Black-eyed peas are ready for dinner :-)
4) Harry Potter marathon with the kids!! We are currently on HP 7.1 -- but hope to finish up tonight. Only Bubba and I have seen it :-)
5) I have gotten ten days of Rob not having to shave. I have had ten days of a bearded husband :-) Tomorrow, I'll have my nicely shaven husband back... and I'll be thankful for that... but today, I am thankful for the beard :-)<strike></strike>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02684266530675532311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584052038510093762.post-42614009148151897692012-09-22T22:26:00.001-04:002012-09-22T22:26:42.146-04:00I know, I know...Yes, it has been forever. But that isn't going to stop me tonight. I'm angry. Maybe more of an upset than an angry. And I don't know where else to put it. So, sorry... in advance.<br />
<br />
Let me tell you something about the military kid. You won't hear "I don't know you so you can't play" come out of their mouths. You won't. Because they know what it feels like. They know what it feels like to join a group midway through a school year, not knowing anybody. To be the new kid. <br />
<br />
Instead you'll hear "You wanna play? You can be a good guy." <br />
<br />
No judgement. Okay, I'm sure that some military kids do judge -- but they *do* know what it is like to be the new kid. To struggle to find somebody to play with at a function. The great thing about the military kid is that they are generally surrounded by other military kids. Those, just like themselves, who will lend a hand to the new kid. Because they know what it feels like.<br />
<br />
But let me tell you -- despite all of the "Support our Troops" bumper stickers that you see around town, it doesn't hold true. You want to support our troops? Support their families. Support that kid who always is the new kid.<br />
<br />
We are a military family in a non-military town. Sure, there is an Air Force base close by, but trust me... this is a non-military town. You know... the kind of town that if you didn't graduate from the local high school, never leaving the comfort of your home town... well, you aren't worth the time of the locals. Pretty hard to be an open armed community when you won't get to know anybody you haven't known since 1st grade... or somebody who married somebody you've known since 1st grade.<br />
<br />
Now... in all fairness, it could be that the locals have had bad experiences with military families. Sure, it could happen. We have our crazies just like every other group in America. But seriously? I've now met two -- yep, that's right TWO -- non-military people in this town that didn't turn their noses up when they found out we are military. <br />
<br />
I can handle it. Really, we're here for a year. I have friends at a distance that I can lean on for support -- folks who know what this life is like. What I can't handle is seeing the look on my kids' faces when we show up for something -- and the dreaded words happen. "Find a partner." And everybody else already knows somebody.<br />
<br />
Ugh. I'm just going to tell myself that this will make them more sensitive to the needs of others. And I'm going to tell them to remember what it feels like -- and to reach out to that new person. But, the thing is, I don't need to tell them. They remember... and they already reach out. <br />
<br />
I sure do love my kids...Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02684266530675532311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584052038510093762.post-35226757572016292892012-02-12T22:39:00.002-05:002012-02-12T22:46:37.106-05:00Been too long...{Insert excuse here for not writing more... real reason? <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Pinterest</span>. No excuse}<br /><br />Sunday night <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Thankfuls</span>!<br /><br />1) <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Waynesville</span> United Methodist Church. So happy to have found a church home while so far from home.<br /><br />2) Popcorn with Frank's Hot Sauce. I don't think I'll ever eat plain popcorn again. Though I've said that before. Remember my rosemary popcorn obsession?!?<br /><br />3) The <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Grammy's</span>. Mainly that I got to watch Adele. Love her. Seriously.<br /><br />4) Lazy weekends. They really don't happen nearly as much as I'd like, but this was one. I didn't even get out of my pajamas yesterday until 1700!<br /><br />5) Leftover lunch. Rob and I are venturing into Dave Ramsey land. Scary. Yes. We've come to realize that we have no idea where bunches of money is going {being wasted}, so we've cut out our weekly Sunday lunch out. Not that we've cut it out always, but not weekly anymore. It was fantastic today. Some of the things in the fridge from the end of last week would have been thrown out during my Monday evening fridge purge (trash pickup is Tuesday morning). Perfectly good food. That I throw away every week. We're starting to make an effort... wish us luck!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02684266530675532311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584052038510093762.post-25756788418927546912012-01-19T10:12:00.002-05:002012-01-19T11:40:29.800-05:00Happy Birthday Rob!In honor of Rob's {42<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">nd</span>} Birthday, I am listing 42 reasons I am thankful for him. Lucky you, you get to cheese it up with me :-)<br /><br />1) He loves me. Unconditionally. And I know it.<br />2) He gave me four beautiful, wonderful children.<br />3) He loves his family. All of his family. Whether in the same house or not. He loves them.<br />4) He provides for his family. <br />5) He will kick me in the butt {not literally} when I want to sleep in on a Sunday, instead of going to church. <br />6) He lets me drive everywhere because he knows I get <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">nauseous</span> when he drives - ha!<br />7) He'll eat popcorn with me, even if he doesn't want any. Just so I don't feel bad making it for just me.<br />8) He'll watch silly shows with me {Current addiction? Big <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Shrimpin</span>' and Gator Boys}<br />9) He'll sit with me {and only complain, vocally, a small amount} when I want to watch Project Runway.<br />10) He'll get up in the middle of the night and check when I hear a noise downstairs.<br />11) He bought a dog. I really don't like her, but I think she fits in okay.<br />12) He taught Raleigh how to use the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">litterbox</span>. Seriously. Have him tell you the story. Hilarious.<br />13) He obsesses over buying cars. But doesn't make me go along during his obsession. He'll just show up with a new (to us) car.<br />14) He comes home and wrestles with the kids.<br />15) He coaches soccer and baseball, making the whole season easier on me -- and improving his relationship with our kids!<br />16) He never says "what did you do all day?!?" when he comes home to a messy house and me, snuggled with Sam on the couch. <br />17) He hardly ever turns his nose up to my cooking. Doesn't mean he likes it all, but he'll at least try it {except for sweet potatoes... that one's just not going to happen}.<br />18) He likes to camp.<br />19) He dreams big -- and tells me to check my skepticism at the door.<br />20) He can sing the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">themesongs</span> to multiple preschool <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">tv</span> programs.<br />21) He signed me up for a Fantasy Football league in 2004.<br />22) He answers my football questions while we watch games -- even if it is the same question I had during the LAST game we watched.<br />23) He is passionate about the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Steelers</span> and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">UGA</span>.<br />24) He has a hard time fussing at the kids without laughing.<br />25) His laughs make me laugh.<br />26) He lets the girls paint his big toes with polish -- and wears it proudly.<br />27) He insists I take a break from "helping" the kids with homework when he sees I'm getting frustrated.<br />28) He supports my discipline decisions with the kids -- even if he disagrees, he supports me in front of the kids.<br />29) He supports my crafting habit... even when nothing is being produced from it!<br />30) He values education.<br />31) He is thoughtful.<br />32) He is proud -- but <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6_RPWCv9yBU&feature=related">"not the kind in the Bible that turns you bad"</a><br />33) Speaking of music -- he may make fun of my music choices, but he doesn't make me turn it off.<br />34) He loves my family.<br />35) He is a better man today than he was 10 years ago and he will be a better man tomorrow. There's nothing better than someone who can learn and grow from mistakes and experiences.<br />36) When I don't feel well, he'll take all of the kids to the park so I can have a little while of quiet.<br />37) He's a sentimental fool :-)<br />38) He'll help me make a meal plan (for two weeks at a time) then want things not on the plan.<br />39) He is impulsive and often makes decisions based on his gut.<br />40) He will sneak up behind me and hug me while I'm cooking. {To be honest, this isn't always appreciated at the time, but I still appreciate that he does it.}<br />41) He is a fantastic daddy who understands that his girls need one-on-one time with him just as much {if not more} than the boys do.<br />42) He is my best friend. I'm so lucky to be married to my best friend.Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02684266530675532311noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584052038510093762.post-51103938977979816522011-12-15T10:25:00.004-05:002011-12-15T11:11:43.220-05:00December crazinessDoes <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">everybody's</span> December turn into a month of craziness?!? School programs, church programs, making gifts, mailing gifts, holiday parties... it seems to go on and on and on! I love Christmas. Can't wait. But I don't always like the lead up... the trying to pick the right present so I don't insult somebody. 'Cause we all know that some folks just WON'T appreciate a homemade gift. {Sigh}.<br /><br />I think we've lost something. I think we've gotten away from where we should really be right now. Now is the time that families should draw near -- regardless of whether gifts are present. My best childhood memories are the lunches we had together -- as a family. Yes, there were presents. Yes, I was excited. But looking back, I cannot think of ONE gift I got at {extended} family functions that I actually remember. None. What I do remember, though, is crowding into a house that was a bit too small but nobody cared. Younger kids would sit on laps or on the floor. We would sit around, eat, and talk -- sometimes to folks that you hadn't seen since LAST Christmas. I remember a family friend dressing as Santa and surprising us all every Christmas Eve -- surprising being a loose term here... since we all knew he was coming :-) I remember sweating out in Granddaddy's house because he liked the house HOT. I remember waiting your turn for a seat at the table... or the stool by the door because you did NOT eat in the living room (as a kid).<br /><br />Christmas is about family to me. But the real reason of Christmas is very present in our house right now. Ask my kids why we celebrate. They'll tell you it is because Jesus was born. They know. They KNOW -- and feel it. And I can't imagine a better gift they could give me. Sam's favorite thing in our house is a Little People Nativity. He will, oh-so-gently, pick up baby Jesus and bring him to me. He'll say "Dis is baby GEEzus."<br /><br />This year, we've cut down on our purchased gifts. The kids will still get way too much. But this year, we're giving less presents in order to have presence. Presence in each other's lives. Baking cookies, making ridiculously hidious ornaments, dancing around the living room to Guns N'Roses {don't ask...} and reading EVERY night as a family. Yep. Less presents on Christmas Day. But I guarantee my kids won't even realize it. They will remember being a FAMILY... even if they have a few less presents. And I am perfectly fine with that!<br /><br />{I usually don't get very religious on here... but if you agree with some of these ideas, I didn't come up with them! Check out the book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Advent-Conspiracy-Christmas-Still-Change/dp/B003VYBDTO/ref=sr_1_sc_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1323965408&sr=8-1-spell"><em>Advent Conspiracy</em></a> -- amazing. Spend less, give more.}<br /><br />Maybe I'm all emotional this Christmas because we aren't going home. Being a military family is fantastic in so many ways, but it is also hard for many reasons. Deployments suck. Extended training sucks. Being away from your family all the time -- really REALLY stinks. We make our own family. Our "green" family. And I love mine. Couldn't have imagined the past ten years without my green family. But, unlike WAY too many folks, I actually LIKE my real, DNA family. I like to be around them. I love them and miss them. And I can't wait to be closer!<br /><br />Whoa! This blog went in a WAY different direction than I originally thought... I was just going to say I was busy and hadn't posted... but I guess these things needed to be said :-)<br /><br />So... sorry I haven't posted, I've been way busy with the December craziness.<br /><br />Faith was November's Student of the Month in her class. The award ceremony was on... you guessed it... pajama day for her class! Love it :-)<br /><br /><align='center'><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/December%202011/?action=view&current=IMG_0121.jpg" target="_blank"><img border="0" alt="Photobucket" src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/December%202011/IMG_0121.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/December%202011/?action=view&current=IMG_0126.jpg" target="_blank"><img border="0" alt="Photobucket" src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/December%202011/IMG_0126.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br />Josh has earned his Bobcat badge with Cub Scouts.<br /><br /><align='center'><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/December%202011/?action=view&current=DSC_0683.jpg" target="_blank"><img border="0" alt="Photobucket" src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/December%202011/DSC_0683.jpg" /></a><br /><br />And we got our pinewood derby car to get ready for the derby!<br /><align='center'><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/December%202011/?action=view&current=DSC_0694.jpg" target="_blank"><img border="0" alt="Photobucket" src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/December%202011/DSC_0694.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br />And we've welcomed Archie, our elf, this year. He's a bit crazy, but really fun!<br /><br /><align='center'><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/December%202011/?action=view&current=DSC_0706.jpg" target="_blank"><img border="0" alt="Photobucket" src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/December%202011/DSC_0706.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><align='center'><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/December%202011/?action=view&current=DSC_0702.jpg" target="_blank"><img border="0" alt="Photobucket" src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/December%202011/DSC_0702.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><align='center'><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/December%202011/?action=view&current=DSC_0699.jpg" target="_blank"><img border="0" alt="Photobucket" src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/December%202011/DSC_0699.jpg" /></a><br /><br />apparently he wanted a specific book... and couldn't find it!<br /><align='center'><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/December%202011/?action=view&current=DSC_0700.jpg" target="_blank"><img border="0" alt="Photobucket" src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/December%202011/DSC_0700.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><align='center'><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/December%202011/?action=view&current=DSC_0701.jpg" target="_blank"><img border="0" alt="Photobucket" src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/December%202011/DSC_0701.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><align='center'><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/December%202011/?action=view&current=DSC_0698.jpg" target="_blank"><img border="0" alt="Photobucket" src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/December%202011/DSC_0698.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><align='center'><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/December%202011/?action=view&current=DSC_0697.jpg" target="_blank"><img border="0" alt="Photobucket" src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/December%202011/DSC_0697.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Fun times :-)Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02684266530675532311noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584052038510093762.post-12910504711866710432011-11-30T13:32:00.003-05:002011-11-30T13:40:09.593-05:00AudiobooksAnybody who knows much about me knows that I have a true love of audiobooks. I love to read... but there is something special about a book being read to you. Maybe I'm channeling my inner 3 year old :-)<br /><br />I've just finished listening to <em>The Book Thief</em> by Markus Zusak.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh34wtxFjU_VpoxJaoi3grwYuIm0kFQ5pFUkAozuIAG3OsDRFuMxd1IYBGd6-PNGfqe9-H1JgYlfXYMW8Q9wfefDGcK8IpZJyXYVWJG2cJGCW3E3ysTbn6QuWeja6PVOSFfv_mWiKbch8w/s1600/the_book_thief_by_jaystab-d3bema5.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 248px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5680859873492737714" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh34wtxFjU_VpoxJaoi3grwYuIm0kFQ5pFUkAozuIAG3OsDRFuMxd1IYBGd6-PNGfqe9-H1JgYlfXYMW8Q9wfefDGcK8IpZJyXYVWJG2cJGCW3E3ysTbn6QuWeja6PVOSFfv_mWiKbch8w/s320/the_book_thief_by_jaystab-d3bema5.jpg" /></a><br /><br />I've read it before and really liked it. But listening to it made me love it.<br /><br />The book is told from the 'voice' of Death, who travels through time carrying souls from Earth to... well, it isn't really addressed. But, though this sounds really depressing, this story is about how Death keeps running into the same girlb and how she changes his idea of human beings. She is the book thief. World War II, Germany.<br /><br />Amazing story. I highly recommend it.Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02684266530675532311noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584052038510093762.post-8995990044613038402011-11-26T11:52:00.002-05:002011-11-26T11:59:55.600-05:00ThanksgivingTold you I'd try harder :-)<br /><br />We had wonderful Thanksgiving meal together on Thursday. For the first time ever, it was just us. And, though we thought that it would be a kind-of sad day, it was really great. Of course, we missed our families. Of course, we'd rather they have been here. Don't get me wrong. It was nice though.<br /><br />We had a very traditional meal. Everybody got to pick something to add to the menu... then helped prepare that part. We always have a great time doing this -- and have done it since the first Thanksgiving the girls could smash corn flakes :-)<br /><br />Our menu:<br />Rob: Brown sugar glazed Ham<br />Melissa: Rosemary Turkey <br />Grace: Homemade Mashed Potatoes<br />Faith: Cranberry Sauce (she helped open the can - ha) and deviled eggs<br />Josh: Pumpkin Pie<br />Sam: Rolls<br /><br />Perfect!<br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Thanksgiving%202011/?action=view&current=DSC_0665-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Thanksgiving%202011/DSC_0665-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />The kids did crafts while the food cooked. <br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Thanksgiving%202011/?action=view&current=DSC_0655-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Thanksgiving%202011/DSC_0655-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Then played on the Wii while I cleaned up. It was a really fun day!<br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Thanksgiving%202011/?action=view&current=DSC_0669.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Thanksgiving%202011/DSC_0669.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />We hope your Thanksgiving was just as great! Happy Thanksgiving from our family to yours!<br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Thanksgiving%202011/?action=view&current=DSC_0662.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Thanksgiving%202011/DSC_0662.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02684266530675532311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584052038510093762.post-28473168107027137132011-11-24T10:34:00.003-05:002011-11-24T18:40:00.220-05:00Seriously?I have seriously forgotten about my blog for too long. I'm going to try really REALLY hard to remember and write more. I always love when I do it, I just sometimes get caught up on other things (ahem... Facebook or Pinterest). <br /><br />A real effort. I'm going to give it a real effort.<br /><br />So, what's gone on since July? LOTS! Here are LOTS of pictures :-)<br /><br />August High (and low) lights:<br />-Bones turned 3! Where has the time gone?!?<br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Blog%20update/?action=view&current=IMG_0203.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Blog%20update/IMG_0203.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />-Mom, Dad and Kate came out for a week long visit. It was fantastic. I always love when they come and always wish they could stay longer.<br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Blog%20update/?action=view&current=IMG_0195.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Blog%20update/IMG_0195.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />-Our Bubba had a seizure. Out of the blue. He was fine one day, woke up not quite right, seized. He was flown to St Louis Children's Hospital, where we stayed for four days. It was one of the most horrifying experiences of my life. Seriously. However, I cannot speak enough of the staff and care at Children's Hospital. I am amazed over the level of care and compassion we received. Every doctor called him by his name. The nurses knew which games he liked best and the names of every stuffed animal he had. Amazing. <br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Blog%20update/?action=view&current=100_0286-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Blog%20update/100_0286-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />-Mom and Dad came BACK out to take care of the three other kids while Rob and I stayed at the hospital with Bubs. Not how I meant when I wanted them to stay longer, but it was wonderful knowing that, with one phone call, they were back on the road -- for another 16 hour trek out!<br /><br />-I was so happy that Nana and Uncle Andy also came out to help while Josh was in the hospital. They took the three others away from the hospital that first full day we were there. The kids had a blast going to Grant's Farm :-)<br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Blog%20update/?action=view&current=100_0187-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Blog%20update/100_0187-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />-Kids started school. I officially have a 4th grader, a 2nd grader, and a 1st grader! <br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Blog%20update/?action=view&current=DSC_0002.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Blog%20update/DSC_0002.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />-Bubba turned 6! Seriously, where has the time gone?!?<br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Blog%20update/?action=view&current=DSC_0052-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Blog%20update/DSC_0052-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />-Soccer! Faith and Josh were both on the same team this year.<br /><br />September:<br />-Bones started preschool. Unfortunately, I pulled him out after only the one month. I was finding myself getting frustrated with the drive and not really being able to get much done during that "break". Since I pulled him out, though, don't feel sorry for him. He goes to hourly care through the CDC twice a week and has a blast :-)<br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Blog%20update/?action=view&current=DSC_0107.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Blog%20update/DSC_0107.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />-We had to buy a new computer. The other one finally died. I didn't realize that computers were only good for 2-3 years. Seems like a waste! But I really like the new one :-)<br /><br />-We went on a family trip to Elephant Rocks State Park. Incredible -- and one more thing marked off of our Missouri bucket list :-)<br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Blog%20update/?action=view&current=DSC_0004-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Blog%20update/DSC_0004-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />-Bub started Tiger Scouts. So stinkin' cute.<br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Blog%20update/?action=view&current=DSC_0204.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Blog%20update/DSC_0204.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />-My Gracie turned 9! It's getting ridiculous... seriously. Where did the time go?!?<br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Blog%20update/?action=view&current=DSC_0423-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Blog%20update/DSC_0423-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />-We went to see a magician/juggler in Rolla. For free. Can you say -- we love the ASYMCA!?!<br /><br />-more soccer. lots more soccer.<br /><br />October:<br />-Another mark off of the Bucket List... HaHaTonka State Park. Fantastic. Beautiful. Interesting. <br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Blog%20update/?action=view&current=102_0613-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Blog%20update/102_0613-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />-Gracie competed in Stampede in the Park -- a one mile fun run through the Waynesville City Park. First, she had to qualify to go... which she did with a 10:39 mile time. THEN she came in 34th (out of 100)! We were SO flippin' proud of her! I didn't know she could run. Not that she was the fastest, but she did her best and we couldn't be prouder!<br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Blog%20update/?action=view&current=DSC_0179.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Blog%20update/DSC_0179.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />-Three nights/four days camping as a family at Lake of the Ozarks State Park. We hiked, we fished, we roasted hotdogs and s'mores. SO fun. Can't wait to go again!<br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Blog%20update/?action=view&current=IMG_0178-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Blog%20update/IMG_0178-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />-Pumpkin picking at the pumpkin patch :-) Pumpkin chunkin', hay ride, duck races. <br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Blog%20update/?action=view&current=DSC_0069-1-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Blog%20update/DSC_0069-1-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />-still more soccer<br /><br />-Halloween. Much better experience this year. Nobody got 'lost' and we all stuck together. AND we got to go trick or treating with friends!<br /><br />November:<br />-Rob and Josh went on a CubScout campout. They had a blast but I felt very weird only having three children for two days!<br /><br />-Family Feast at the kids' school. Rob got to come this year so we all were there together :-)<br /><br />-Grace participated in the school's 4th grade play (like she had a choice...) They did Annie Jr. Grace was an orphan, a citizen and a servant (Mrs Greer). <br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Blog%20update/?action=view&current=IMG_0117.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/Blog%20update/IMG_0117.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />-I became a Pinterest addict... is there a 12 step program for that?!?<br /><br />-Thanksgiving!! I am so thankful for a wonderful life, filled with wonder family and friends. I cannot ask for more! More pictures coming :-) <strong></strong>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02684266530675532311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584052038510093762.post-48578422356529960822011-07-25T22:53:00.003-04:002011-07-25T23:20:45.428-04:00Weekend catch-upI've found a pattern in my blogging... I hardly ever write over the weekend. I take my camera with me, I think about things I will write, but I don't sit down and write it. Why? Because it's the weekend, silly! I want to spend those nights snuggling with my family!<br /><br />This weekend, we really didn't do much. Saturday morning, I gave Bones a much needed haircut:<br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/?action=view&current=IMG_0100.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/IMG_0100.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/?action=view&current=IMG_0102.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/IMG_0102.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Then we went to a pool party -- wonderful!<br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/?action=view&current=IMG_0107.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/IMG_0107.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Sunday morning was started at church, of course<br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/?action=view&current=IMG_0138.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/IMG_0138.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Then we did a whole lot of nothing yesterday afternoon. It was wonderful! There was another Harry Potter marathon on ABC Family. The boys and I laid upstairs and watched. They were both fast asleep by about 1930hrs. I put them in their beds and they slept ALL NIGHT! I was shocked! I just knew that they were going to be wide awake by about midnight, but I guess they were two tired boys.<br /><br />This morning, I didn't feel well -- again (I had a horrible headache...again), so I didn't do much. By about 1400hrs, I started feeling better, thankfully. I got caught up on folding the laundry that we did yesterday<br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/?action=view&current=IMG_0143.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/IMG_0143.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />{cleaning up the toys is tomorrow's task...}<br /><br />We were super excited to see this guy in the backyard! Finally one is turning red!<br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/?action=view&current=IMG_0141.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/IMG_0141.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/?action=view&current=IMG_0140.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/IMG_0140.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Last, but certainly, not least... I think today is Rob and my anniversary. I know that it is horrible to say "I think" but we really aren't sure. I guess I should find the marriage certificate. We just take the last week of July as our anniversary week :-) Either way, I am so glad to say that I am married to my best friend and am excited for all of the adventures that our marriage will continue to bring to us! I love you Rob! <br /><br />Tonight I am thankful for:<br />1) Nine great years with a wonderful man... with many more adventures to come!<br />2) Great kids that will help each other when I don't feel well<br />3) Blackout curtains<br />4) G watched <a href="http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/tv/surprise-homecoming/about-the-show.htm">Surprise Homecomings</a> today and couldn't stop crying. When I asked her why she was crying, she said "because I know how that feels" -- then we were both crying!<br />5) No more kids' laundry to wash for two days! {it's a small victory, but a victory I will take!}Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02684266530675532311noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584052038510093762.post-27164032321069083972011-07-21T23:24:00.002-04:002011-07-21T23:53:18.420-04:00Whew... it's been a rough few daysWell... I've been sick. And it all stemmed from a stinkin' tooth. That's right -- I was down and out for three and a half days due to a tooth. I felt it crack a few weeks ago, but it didn't hurt {and I'm a huge dentist-ophobe} so I waited it out. Early last week, part of the tooth came out... just broke right off. Still didn't hurt. Until Sunday. I have never been so uncomfortable in all of my life. <br /><br />{okay, we all know that's not true. I've had four kids. I've felt my share of pain. But that pain is rewarded in the end with a beautiful, miracle of a baby that thinks you are the greatest thing on earth. This pain was only going to end in the dentist's chair.}<br /><br />I called Monday morning... they couldn't get me in at a time I could actually go. I called Tuesday morning... they couldn't get me in until just after noon on Wednesday. Sign me up! That's saying something... if I'm wanting to go to the dentist. I had, by the time I got to the dentist on Wednesday, slept with ice packs on my face for three nights (getting up in the middle of the night to get new cold ones) and more motrin/tylenol in my system than I think you are supposed to have in a year.<br /><br />Monday and Tuesday I didn't get out of bed. I barely exaggerate... I went from the bed to the shower (my favorite place to try to feel better) to the couch to the bed. I didn't eat. I didn't fix a meal {G was a champ with the PB&Js!}. I was useless. So, I don't have a picture of those days. <br /><br />I do have a picture of my feet getting over their deathly fear of the dentist, but it's on my phone and I can't get the silly thing to put its pictures on the computer :-( <br /><br />But I digress... so I got to the dentist, with the full intention of getting this tooth out of my head. The dentist explained my options... pulpotomy with an eventual root canal $481... extraction $34. Hmmm... let me think. Take that sucker OUT! {I must admit, I was lucky that this was the very last molar on my left, upper side. If it had been my front tooth, I would have taken a different option...}.<br /><br />So once I signed all the crazy info sheets you have to sign to get a tooth pulled -- you know the ones that give you even more fear of the dentist... like broken jaws, etc, he numbed me up and pulled it! I was still pretty miserable yesterday and until about noon-ish today. But now, I feel like a new woman! I didn't realize the pressure that I'd been feeling in my head was due to this tooth! I thought I had a tension headache, then I thought I had the beginning of a sinus infection, then an ear infection... then a migraine. Well, I did have the migraine, but I think it was triggered from this stupid tooth! I'm so glad that it's out and that I'm back to semi-normal. <br /><br />Today, I even went outside! <br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/?action=view&current=IMG_0091.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/IMG_0091.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />It has been 100+ with heat index for the past week (today was one of the highest, with the temp at 100 and the heat index at 110). So I put the sprinklers on for the kids and off they went. And I sat on my bottom, talking to my mama on the phone :-)<br /><br />So, not pictures of feet, but here are some from today -- you can definitely tell that Bones was the only one who stayed near me. He loves the water, but doesn't like the sprinkler. <br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/?action=view&current=IMG_0093.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/IMG_0093.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Bones was building a bridge... with tomato stakes. <br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/?action=view&current=IMG_0094.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/IMG_0094.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/?action=view&current=IMG_0097.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/IMG_0097.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Not really sure why I have no pictures of the girls... guess they were running too fast for me! <br /><br />Things I'm thankful for tonight:<br />1) I am VERY thankful for no more toothache! <br />2) Toyota Venza commercials. They are hilarious! <br />3) Disney's summer movie series. There really is something wonderful about snuggling on the couch with your boys -- and looking over to see Rob snuggled with the girls -- and watching Wall-E. <br />4) My parents are coming to see me -- um, I mean -- us!<br />5) Rob won't go to bed without me. That's not saying he won't go to sleep without me. Right now, he's "watching" some show about Berring Sea monsters... with his eyes closed because he won't go upstairs without me :-) I sure do love that man!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02684266530675532311noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584052038510093762.post-13362306983218478432011-07-17T19:07:00.003-04:002011-07-17T20:04:12.962-04:00Destruct-O strikes againSo... the pictures are on hiatus until I get another SD card (which will probably be no later than tomorrow). My little 2(almost 3)year old destruct-o has destroyed mine. How in the world did he do that? Pretty sure he bit it. It broke right into two pieces :-( <br /><br />Sigh...<br /><br />{{UPDATE: He didn't bite it... he tried to put it in the computer, but didn't get the right angle to get it in the slot. So, then he tried to get it out by pulling straight down. Broke right into two. Oh well.}}Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02684266530675532311noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584052038510093762.post-72504459757307345842011-07-17T00:59:00.003-04:002011-07-17T01:13:17.886-04:00SaturdayMy feet stayed home today... however, that doesn't mean I didn't see anything good :-)<br /><br />Here's a look at our tomatoes. There are probably 35-40 on the plants now, with more blooms everyday! We thought they were cherry tomatoes -- because that's what the little sign in the pots said -- but it's looking more and more like patio tomatoes are coming. We are going to be up to our eyeballs in tomatoes!<br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/?action=view&current=IMG_0070-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/IMG_0070-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/?action=view&current=IMG_0067-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/IMG_0067-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><br />Now to the real entertainment of the day. Apparently, my mama gave me the recipe for hummingbird crack. I have never, in my entire life, seen so many hummingbirds at one feeder. Ever. We have the feeder suctioned to one of our kitchen windows, so we can really watch and see the funny interaction of these guys! At one point, I counted 15 or 16 hummingbirds in a holding pattern -- just waiting for their turn at the crack! I made 2-1/2cups of the 'nectar' at noon. Had to refill before dinner! Kid you not, hummingbird crack! They were everywhere. Almost creepy... when I went outside to take the pictures, I felt like I was in a swarm! But they were certainly fun to watch. Enjoy :-)<br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/?action=view&current=IMG_0079-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/IMG_0079-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/?action=view&current=IMG_0080.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/IMG_0080.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/?action=view&current=IMG_0081.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/IMG_0081.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/?action=view&current=IMG_0076.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/IMG_0076.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/?action=view&current=IMG_0087.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/IMG_0087.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02684266530675532311noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584052038510093762.post-71524670820030695732011-07-16T12:14:00.002-04:002011-07-16T12:24:01.400-04:00Going onSo I haven't kept up with everyday, but I have been thinking about blogging much more often than usual. I will take that as a step in the right direction of getting back into the swing of things.<br /><br />I've been lots of places... even bringing the camera along... only to remember that I took the SD card out to download pictures. UGH! Do you KNOW how frustrating that is?!? VERY, VERY frustrating.<br /><br />THURSDAY: I do have a picture on my phone of my feet... at the midnight showing of Harry Potter (taken around 2345 -- that would be 11:45pm for my non-military friends). That's right. I left Rob and 5 kids (JP is here visiting -- yay!) to go to the movies. Awesome! <br /><br />FRIDAY: We went back to Johnson Shut Ins for a day in the river. Awesome, again. Super bummed that I forgot the camera. Though, sometimes it is nice not to have it. Then I'm not always worried about it getting wet and I'm able to completely enjoy where I am. I actually got all the way in the river! I got Bones and Bubba to come out with me and float (with their lifevests). Fun, fun! Those are the times, though, that I wish there were people taking pictures everywhere. Like those camera people at Disney who know where to be and just scan your card so you can get your pictures when you're done for the day... yeah, I like those guys :-)<br /><br />TODAY: Who knows where my feet will go. They are about to go outside and give my little Bones a haircut. Fresh mohawk, here we come :-) <br /><br />Where are YOUR feet taking you today?!?Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02684266530675532311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584052038510093762.post-28453058560014877742011-07-12T22:47:00.004-04:002011-07-12T23:05:11.402-04:00Catch up... but no pictures :-(Sunday, my feet really only went to church. I took my camera... but forgot my SD card, so couldn't take any. <br /><br />Monday, my feet stayed home all day... quite a boring day for pictures. I made watermelon rind pickles (jury's still out on whether they are good or not -- but they are definitely NOT Grandma Harris's pickles!) and pizza dough. <br /><br />Today, we also stayed home all day. I guess that's just what happens when it is 98 degrees with a heat index of 110 degrees. You just stay put. I was mean today, though... and made my kids have a TV free day! I am amazed at how upset they get. It just makes me want to have more TV free days. I was also very quickly impressed at their imaginations. Today, there were aliens, robots, T-rexs and all sorts of things in my house! And I loved it!<br /><br />Tonight, I am thankful for:<br />1) yummy salad for dinner. Ever had one of those wedge salads? You know, iceburg lettuce, bacon bits, blue cheese crumbles, boiled egg and red onion with ranch dressing? Delicious -- even made at home :-)<br />2) Slowly, but surely, the playroom is getting cleaned out -- bags filled with goodies for Goodwill are ready to go (just don't tell the kids, deal?)<br />3) Audiobooks that I can listen to over and over again while I clean (Harry Potter series, Twilight series, etc). It really is nice to be read to while you're doing something you don't really want to do!<br />4) A neighborhood where kids come out at 8pm because that's the only time it is cool enough to play outside. <br />5) Rob doing his hydrology homework... it means I get to do math! And I really, really like math :-)Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02684266530675532311noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584052038510093762.post-74506660080976651042011-07-09T23:12:00.003-04:002011-07-10T00:03:30.828-04:00Saturday's feetMy feet went all over today! And boy are they tired :-)<br /><br />My girls and I joined two neighbors (plus their girls) in going to visit the Laura Ingalls Wilder home and museum today. Mine are the feet in the brown sandals at about 6 o'clock!<br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/?action=view&current=DSC_1531.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/DSC_1531.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />All of the girls (ranging from 7-10yr old) have read at least two books (okay... my girls have only read two of the seven books. The other girls -- all 10 yrs old -- have read all seven), so we thought it was a great girls' trip since we are so close to Mansfield, Missouri. Quite a crooked trip, complete with car sickness, but worth it! <br /><br />Here are some of my favorite pictures from today:<br /><br />At the farmhouse<br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/?action=view&current=DSC_1537.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/DSC_1537.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />I just loved this outside light<br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/?action=view&current=DSC_1557.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/DSC_1557.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />At the Rock House<br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/?action=view&current=DSC_1566.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/DSC_1566.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />My girls<br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/?action=view&current=DSC_1569.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/DSC_1569.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/?action=view&current=DSC_1577.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/DSC_1577.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />After the fun of a girls' day out, we didn't stop! After dinner, I walked with my favorite 8 year old (and the rest of the family, but their feet aren't in the picture) to a park about a mile from home.<br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/?action=view&current=DSC_1586.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/DSC_1586.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Most of us ran... including this guy! He was great (until on the way back... about 1/4 mile from the house, he had meltdown and wanted to be picked up, but that's okay. He was great.<br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/?action=view&current=DSC_1589.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/DSC_1589.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Said meltdown...<br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/?action=view&current=DSC_1609.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/DSC_1609.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />While at the park, my feet got some much needed time in the swing :-)<br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/?action=view&current=DSC_1591.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/DSC_1591.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><br />Tonight I am thankful for:<br />1) Rob, who doesn't think twice when I tell him I want to leave at 8am on a Saturday with the girls and leave him (with the boys) -- just because.<br />2) Finding some yummy marinades on sale at the commissary. Gives Rob's favorite (insert sarcasm here...) chicken quite a variety. He may even like it now :-) Sometimes...<br />3) Wonderful neighbors (who may think I'm weird for taking a picture of their feet, but go along with it anyway)<br />4) A night with nice weather and not too many bugs at the park!<br />5) Harry Potter weekend on ABC Family... and only five more days until I {once again} stay up WAY too late to watch a midnight showing of the new and final Harry Potter movie :-) I know... I'm a dork :-)Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02684266530675532311noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584052038510093762.post-57997468988866248982011-07-09T19:14:00.002-04:002011-07-09T19:17:15.201-04:00Last night's feetLast night, my feet and Rob's feet took a walk up the street...<br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/?action=view&current=DSC_1516.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/DSC_1516.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />Then my feet kissed Rob's feet :-)<br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/?action=view&current=DSC_1518.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/DSC_1518.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />But this was all after my feet found Bubba hiding in a pile of mess on the floor behind the chair...<br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/?action=view&current=DSC_1512.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/July%202011/DSC_1512.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02684266530675532311noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5584052038510093762.post-73865518889776080882011-07-07T23:45:00.003-04:002011-07-08T00:15:45.787-04:00Hmm... no feet, but thankfuls!I don't have any feet pictures today... mainly because my feet didn't take me out of the house today (other than watering the plants and walking the dog). I did make a new friend on one of my short trips outside:<br /><br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/?action=view&current=DSC_1510.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/DSC_1510.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br />He was really booking around the table trying to get away from me. I wouldn't get too close because I had an image in my head of it jumping onto my lens.<br /><align="center"><a href="http://s197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/?action=view&current=DSC_1505.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa199/melissajhf/DSC_1505.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><br /><br />I got every bit of linoleum in our house scrubbed, though. Scrubbed... as in, hands and knees, bucket of bleach water scrubbed :-)<br /><br />Tomorrow will be another feet not going anywhere kind of day. That's right. I'm vacuuming tomorrow. Oh the life...<br /><br />Seriously, though, i don't mind days like this. Days that are semi-productive but that don't feel rushed. My kids all played (relatively) nicely together. Yes, there were dolls, blankets and every kind of ball imaginable on the floor by noon, but I'll take that over screaming at each other any day! <br /><br />On another note... our church started a new sermon series a couple of weeks ago. I'm behind. Last week, we were supposed to start keeping a continuous list of things we are grateful for. Sounds like my Thankfuls will come back! Now that I'm trying to post a picture a day, hopefully I'll stick with it better than last time!<br /><br />So... tonight's thankfuls<br />1) We caught up on <a href="http://www.fox.com/dance/">So You Think You Can Dance</a>. We missed last week's results, yesterday's competition and tonight's results. Makes me want to take a dance class, I tell you!<br /><br />2) I made cupcakes for something... oh, dinner with friends the other night. Then I made a second batch for our end-of-season baseball party. I also made two different types of icing... strawberry cream cheese that is AWESOME (and i don't know if I can reproduce, since I kind of just did the little of this/little of that thing) and an almond butter cream (my all time favorite). Why is this a thankful? Because I made too much icing... both kinds! So, we have two small Tupperware containers of icing that make everything better! Toast? Sure, have some strawberry cream cheese on there! <br /><br />3) Bathrooms, kitchen, and dining room all have clean floors and baseboards! <br /><br />4) The house smells like Clorox. Which, if you grew up in our house, you know is the smell of clean :-)<br /><br />5) Finished listening to another book. I really am addicted to audio books. My sister started me reading <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Tracy-Chevalier/e/B000APQH6G/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_1">Tracy Chevalier</a>... this was the third book of hers that I've read/heard. This one was <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Burning-Bright-Tracy-Chevalier/dp/B001P3OLEM/ref=ntt_at_ep_dpt_6">Burning Bright</a>. Good book, but like many Chevalier's books, ends a bit abruptly with me wanting to know more. I guess that's a measure of good character development -- wanting to find out more about their lives.Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02684266530675532311noreply@blogger.com1