Challenge #3 Santa

Animal Kingdom

Disney's Hollywood Studios

Magic Kingdom

Epcot

After the first two parks had men that looked just like Santa I thought I should go for four. I am pretty sure the last one was the real deal. He was jolly, helpful, and wearing red.

I Am A Day Behind

I was unable to take a picture yesterday because I got up in the morning, got ready for work, worked all day, and went out with co-workers. So I decided to make it up with two pictures today. I will be having a marathon of sorts tomorrow. I am going to try to hit all four Disney parks and take pictures of the holiday decorations in each.

I have decided to take the ornaments on my tree and use them for a few of the Photo A Day. So many of them have great stories and I would like to turn them into a scrapbook at some point. Mom if you know more of the stories of some of the older ones can you help me out?

I believe the Santa ornament came from Avon. It is a scented ornament and around 20 years old. The reason I put this one on here is because when we pulled the ornaments out this year the whole box smelled like this ornament. I cannot believe that it has still held the scent.

I think the snowman toppers came from my Nana's house. If they did not they made their way to the house at the same time as the other Christmas items my father and his siblings thought I should have.

Saturday

Blogger has decided to post the pictures in the reverse of my choosing and also the reverse of how they happened. Today was an eventful day and we have not been home for too long. Aubs had ballet this morning and it was parent participation today. I asked Amanda if she would mind taking some pictures for us. Aubs and Jack are particularly close with two of the assistants and they played photographer for Mellie and me. Amanda may just be responsible for both the cutest and most embarrassing photos of Aubs and I ever taken.

We mailed a letter to Santa while we were at the mall with my cousin Danielle and her boyfriend. If you mail your Santa letter from Macy's they will donate $1 per letter up to 1 million to the Make A Wish Foundation.

We went to see the Nutcracker today. Don't worry photos were allowed. It was put on by a local company and was absolutely amazing. A coworkers daughter was Clara and the Sugar Plum Fairy. They told us she had an off night this evening but I honestly couldn't tell. If this was a bad night for her I cannot wait to see her on a good day. She was breathtaking and definitely had a presence on the stage.

Should I Be Concerned...

That my daughter is already practicing forging a parent's signature?

Dr. Seuss Tree

We have this tree growing in the corner of the yard. I have no idea what it is. To me it looks like it should be in a Dr. Seuss book instead of my yard.

Moon

The moon is really beautiful here tonight. There is a giant ring around it tonight. I tried to capture it on film but the telephoto was too close and my 18-55mm didn't quite work out. I did however end up with a lovely picture of the moon. Unfortunately I hadn't grabbed the tripod on the first trip out so to keep myself from moving I laid on the ground and held my breath. The other unfortunate part was that the neighbors drove up as I was doing this and since he is a deputy his mind went to worst case scenario and he almost called 911. We had a good laugh about this. I did not realize that so many fun stories would be generated by the Photo A Day challenge.

Happy Birthday Jake

Happy Birthday Jake. We love you and miss you.

I wanted to get a Marines ornament for our tree but have not been able to find one. I thought Patriotic Mickey would work for now.

Snowman Tree Take 2

Here is the current version of the snowman tree. I guess it is more of a table. While there are a lot of ornaments she also has some other great pieces. I wish you could have seen the look on her face when we told her she got a Christmas tree all to herself. It did take a while to convince her that it could not go next to the big tree. Once we got the placement figured out she was very happy to decorate all by herself.

We Needed A Little Christmas

We have been in a decorating frenzy this weekend. Aubs and Shawn put up the outside lights yesterday. Today we put up the family tree as well as all of the candle holders and little counter/table top items. We have had some Rudolph figurines up on a display shelf for a few years. We had been keeping them in the boxes because they are collectibles. This year we decided to take them out and enjoy them. We now have a little Rudolph scene under the tree.

Aubs ended up with a 3 foot tree for the snowmen. When we tried to put the snowmen on the tree I had bought for them we realized that it was not nearly big enough. We had a spare tree in the garage and put that up for her. I ended up using the IKEA tree for our Irish ornament collection.

I couldn't figure out which photo to post so I put two.

Happy Thought Request

If anyone reading could please send happy thoughts to my friend Charissa, it would be greatly appreciated. Her beloved cat passed away yesterday. She is one of the best pet moms I know. If you would like to send her a note of encouragement and love click here. Thank you.

Pretty In Pink

Here is Aubs getting ready for ballet. If you look in the background it appears that she placed a pillow under the snowman tree in case he decides to jump off.

Please pretend not to notice that I need to vacuum. Thank you.

Aubs

I realized I hadn't posted a new pic of the girl in a while. This is from Thanksgiving so it doesn't count for Photo a Day. She did her hair all by herself.

Reason #67...

...That I love IKEA. These delicious little cinnamon rolls from their Swedish Grocery section. I am not a big fan of icing on my cinnamon rolls and was very excited to find these. They are delicious. Aubs loves them too. I also threw in my coffee because I found a very yummy Christmas Blend at Barney's Coffee and Tea. It is a cinnamon amaretto blend. I don't usually like the flavored coffees but this one is just right.

In case anyone is wondering I most certainly put the cinnamon rolls on that plate for the picture.

Snowman Tree

My parents started a snowman collection for Aubs right around her first Christmas. I am pretty sure this has something to do with her needing to board a plane in order to see the stuff. Her collection has grown considerably and I have been trying to find a proper way to display them at the holidays. I was at Ikea last week and found these fun tree things. I wasn't sure what I needed it for then but realized today it would be perfect to hang up a few snowmen. Unfortunately the tree with two snowmen didn't photograph well. The past few years it seems when someone new comes into our family it has been a good omen when they give Aubs a snowman. Usually they do not know of her collection when purchasing the item. This snowman is from Christine, my father-in-law's fiance. She has never met Aubs except over the phone and sent her not only an ornament but a stocking adorned with a giant snowman. Welcome to the family.

So Far So Good

Alternately titled: Why I Am Pretty Sure My House Will Not Get Cleaned Today.

Eight Years

Today is our eighth wedding anniversary. Shawn brought me these flowers last night since I have to work this evening. With all the preparations for Black Friday I forgot to put in a request for today. We usually wait until the weekend anyway and I have Sunday off. I guess this is my public apology to my husband.

I love you baby. I hope we are together for many more years.

Holiday Magic

Okay not exactly but maybe just a little. I have noticed lately that the leaves are changing. We have had a much cooler fall than I remember. I have been meaning to take my camera with me for the past couple of weeks. I finally had it with me on Thanksgiving and pulled off to the side of the road at dusk and snapped a few shots.

I have also been wanting to do a fun handmade Christmas project. I couldn't quite figure out what I wanted to make and today I decided to make another Advent Calendar. Aubs and I made one last year and had a ton of fun and ended up with a great keepsake. The numbers on the right side each contain a chipboard ornament that has been run through the Xyron sticker maker. I folded a tab so that Aubs can easily remove them from the pocket. I will try to take a picture on Christmas Eve so everyone can see the complete tree. I also added a picture of last years Advent Calendar.

I am also going to try to do a Photo A Day until Christmas. I have never done one of these before so we will see how it goes.

Happy Thanksgiving!

I hope everyone has a happy and thanks filled day. I slacked a bit on my daily posts so here is the list for the rest of the week, plus a few.

- My daddy being healthy. We had quite a scare this year and I am glad he is doing so much better.

- My Girl. I love my daughter and am so blessed to have her in my life.

- My honey. In five days we will be married for 8 years.

- My very brave cousins. Jake and Jesse we love you and are very proud of you.

- Jake, Jesse, and Sam. With the things we have gone through with Bob you wonderful men have stepped up and been there where my brother normally would have been. You will never know what it means to me. Aubs really loves her cousins and will do anything for you boys.

- The Cowans, Sweeney-Bells, & Carly and Robb. You are our "Florida" Family. My life would not be the same without you all.

I Am Thankful For...

... the internet. I know that most people have issues with a statement like that. I just wanted to say that thanks to my blog, facebook, etc. I have reconnected with some people I haven't talked to in years.

I figured I would try to post something I am thankful for each day this week.

Hypothetical Question

Why is it that one can have no desire to leave their house until they cannot and then they would like to be anywhere else?

Alternate Title: How Blogging Will Entertain When A Local School That Is Not Your Daughters But Located At The End Of Your Street Is In Lockdown.

A Guessing Game

One of the things Aubs' teacher told us they would be starting to work on would be finding patterns in words. She said that we can start this at home with her by having Aubs put together groups of words that rhyme and have the same starting letter. I thought a good way to practice this skill and to help her with her quick thinking would be to play Scattergories. I modified the rules slightly to make it less frustrating for the girl. I thought I would post some of Aubs answers and see if anyone could tell me what it is. I did tell her spelling didn't count since she did not have a teammate.

Mashtosits- A state
madl - something you throw away
micdonlds - occupation
mikrav - appliance


I will post a few hints sometime tomorrow if anyone needs some help.

*Anonymous seems to have gotten them all correct.

Aubs' Great Day

Aubrey had a fantastic day today. She won the cup stacking contest for her grade at school. Have no idea what I am talking about? No worries I only know because I saw this.

We also had her Parent Teacher conference today. It went really well and I am very glad that she has a teacher that is willing to make sure she doesn't get bored. She has a lot of ideas to allow Aubs to work at her own pace while sticking to the curriculum for the rest of the class. They are implementing a new computer program that will allow the children to move forward at their own pace.

Aubs was rewarded handsomely for her great day. I am lucky my child is so easy to please. A Martha Stewart Craft kit and dinner at Panda was all she needed.

Happy Veteran's Day

To all of my family members who are Veterans. Thank you for your service to our Country. Also thanks for being such great guys.

Here is a rundown of my family members who served and are serving:
Great Grandpa Morgan Navy
Grandpa Morgan Navy
Grandpa Alaburda Navy
Uncle Danny Missy's Uncle Danny Navy
My Father In Law Air Force
Uncle Mickey Navy or Marines
Uncle Gene Navy
Grampy Navy
Poppy Air Force
And our two newest members
Jesse C. Air Force
Jake A Marines

*Please see the comments for additional family. Thanks Maury.

Happy Birthday USMC

This girl and her family love and miss their Marine terribly. To any other Marines that may happen by here Thank you for all that you do. You are all so brave and our Heroes.

My Kiddo

Today Aubs was telling me some of the things she learned in school. She told me about how she uses her dominant hand for more that her non dominant hand. Someone also must have told her that the best way to learn Spanish is to practice at home. I asked her to please bring something blue to me and she asked me to please say azul.

Oops.

I knew I should not have turned on live TV. I had planned on watching Tivoed shoes and not checking the election results until later tonight or tomorrow. Now I am glued to the tv and laptop. I have tons of pictures from Sunday night which I will post later once I can get them off of the camera.

Here We Go!!

A Charissa Style Checklist

Shower - check
Clean Out Car - check
Pack - check
Pluck Eyebrows - check
Paint Toes - check
Bring Jenny to the concert she has been waiting to see since she was a tween - In Progress
Scream like a 13 year old girl - Will Commence at 7:30 PM

Yesterday

Yesterday was a fun day. Aubs' school had invited us to lunch with our kids and then to the book fair. It was one of those moments where the memories of elementary school came flooding into my mind. I think I can still describe the gym/lunchroom at Fishcreek with painstaking detail. The book fair had the same effect and I found myself upset at the lack of Mad Libs. Today is Storybook Day and Aubs is very excited to dress up as Pinkalicious.

Cookie Decorating

We went to SeaWorld today. They had their Halloween Spooktacular. Aubs went trick or treating, got to pet one of the Clydesdales, and we decorated a cookie. The cookie decorating may be one of my favorite things I have seen in a Theme Park. For $5 we got a cookie and toppings, chocolate milk, and a lunch box to take home. We had an absolute blast today.

Hero Worship

My Thursday

We had quite a busy day today. Here is the rundown of what Aubs and I accomplished:

- I voted. I did not want to take the chance that I would have to be late to work or adjust my schedule. Florida offers early voting so I took advantage. I will not go into which candidate I chose but I am happy with my decision. It really took me a while to decide.

- Aubs also chose her candidate. I tried explaining she is not old enough but she seems to be obsessed with him all of a sudden. She even taught the son of a friend who usually leans the other way of her candidate to say his name. The kid is just learning to speak and now has one new word that may cause me some trouble. I swear I had nothing to do with any of it. She asked me on our way out the door who was running, she decided on one person and that was that. She didn't even ask who my choice was first.

- I realized what a problem all the "Yes on 2" people are creating. It is not a gay marriage amendment. Even if it is why are people so afraid? Come on people read for your self. If you have any questions please go here.

- I filled my tank for under $21 I cannot even remember the last time that happened.

- We went to Target. That store has a way of sucking the money right out of my wallet.

- Aubs and I went to my work. She decided to play shy.

Apostrophe

Shawn and I think that today's lesson in Kindergarten must have been using the apostrophe to show possession. We have decided this because the following items were written on Aubs' dry erase board:

Aubrey's momy is home with her Daddy.

Aubrey's throt hurts.

She tends to repeat the lessons each evening to her invisible students. We have seen story webs, letter webs, and practice sentences almost every evening.

Raising A Child In An Internet World

Aubs has been playing on the computer most of the morning. She is home from school today with a bit of a cold. While she was asking the correct spelling of a website the following question popped into my head: Are teachers having a hard time explaining the difference between a dot and a period? I for one can see Aubs telling the teacher "No that is a dot. I use it on my computer all the time. You know like dot com?"

Ten

Dear Pat,
I miss you terribly. I cannot believe it has been ten years. I still remember every word of our last conversation. I can still see the tears in your eyes. As hard as that memory is, I am finally starting to appreciate the fact that we had a proper goodbye. People have told me how lucky I was and I just couldn't see it. I realize that even though we had tears we had a wonderful last moment. I look back and wonder where I found those exact words at that moment and thank God that I did and am pretty sure he had them for me. At the same time I have always had peace that I promised you I would see you again.
I am so glad you were with us that last summer. I remember so many random things from that summer it is almost as if I knew how important those memories would be. That was the summer we discovered we liked the same Canadian music. Barenaked Ladies and Sarah McLachlan still make me smile for that reason.
Today I am going to celebrate with Carly. The day you left us was the day she came into my life. I figured you would prefer it this way. Everyone at home is meeting for a football game. There will be tons of new faces, most of them very small.
I will try to find a vodka drink to have in your honor though I doubt they will have one mixed with Gatorade.
Love Always And Until I see You Again,
Missy

Great Day

Today Aubs and I went to the Southern Women's Show. It was really fun and Aubs got to meet some of her favorite people on TV. Jon & Kate Gosselin from Jon & Kate Plus 8 were there doing a meet and greet.

Welcome To Your Thirties...

My dearest Sister Helen. I hope your first day and all that follow of your thirties are amazing. We had a "math" lesson this afternoon and baked blondies in your honor.

Budding Fashionista Strikes Again

Aubs just told me I need to go on "What Not To Wear".

Ten On Tuesday

I don't usually do these but I figured this would be the best way to catch up. (The order has more to do with how blogger loaded everything not necessarily chronological)
1.
My cousin Danielle came down from Ohio and her lovely boyfriend Ben drove her all the way from Tampa to see us. We went to The Rainforest Cafe. Right before she arrived I looked at the coffee mugs and noticed these two names. I check these racks religiously just in case they ever decide to make an Aubrey. I do not usually see my grandparents names together like that.

2. In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month I donated my ponytail to the Florida Hospital Cancer Center's Eden Spa for Image Discovery. Due to the dress code at work I could not get their October Promotion so I decided to cut and donate my hair. As a fundraiser they are giving hot pink hair extensions to anyone who donates ten or more dollars at their location.

3. School seems to be going well for Aubs. Today we had a lesson in Play-doh Diplomacy.

4.
This is our fall foods picnic. They did not have the items I needed to make the dinner I wanted to eat at Publix so we just went with plan B. The items were homemade Pumpkin Muffins and Mrs. Craig's Apple Dip. Some days I just like to be different.

5. Thursday is officially 10 years since I moved to Florida.

6. Carly and I will be celebrating 10 years as friends. I do not usually remember the date of when I meet people. Unfortunately the morning I started working at FAO I was awakened by a call letting me know that someone very dear to my heart had passed away suddenly. I decided to celebrate instead of mourn this year.

7. Pumpkin Spice Latte's are back at Starbucks.

8. I went to Halloween Horror Nights last week. This may not seem like a big deal but to anyone who knew me before 2001 knows that Haunted Houses and I did not get along. I used to cover my eyes, shake, and sometimes cry if someone made me go through. Thanks to my brother's coaching I now think they are a riot and love to see the make-up and try to figure out which props are actually boo holes.

9. I think that a Marine is to Aubrey what A Ghost was to Bobby. She will be a Marine again for Halloween this year. I believe this may have quite a bit to do with #10. She was given the glossy version and believes that the Marines kick the bad guys.

10.
Jake left for Iraq on Sunday. This young man means the world to us. Please pray for the safety of him and the other men in his unit.

Prayers To All

Prayers to everyone at home. I just read the reports about Ike causing some major damage up that way. I hope everyone is safe and well.

Conversations With My 5 Year Old

Aubs on sharks.

A: What is in the woods?

M: Trees and animals.

A: Maybe bears?

M: Possibly.

A: Maybe there is a lake with sharks and alligators.

M: Alligators probably but no sharks. Sharks require salt water.

A: So they can live in pools.

M: No, they cannot live in pools. They need salt water.

A: They can live in some pools. Daddy has salt at his store for pools. (For salt generators)

M: Sharks cannot live in pools.

A: Can they live in a saltwater pond?

M: No, their food isn't there.

A: Sharks only eat fish and people that swim to deep and close to them.

9/11/08

This photo is from Jesse's Air Force Graduation. Today I have been thinking how amazing Jesse and Jake are for choosing the Military path. They both knew there was a good chance they may be called overseas. Jake leaves in three weeks. I know this is what he trained for, I know he is brave, and I know he will carry the prayers of all of us with him. I am still worried.

This year's anniversary is so different for me. Today Aubs is old enough to question why today is a sad day. I remember those feelings so vividly from that morning that when Aubs asked today I couldn't help but cry.

The longest ten minutes of my life happened when I couldn't find Carly. She had been in New York on the tenth and I couldn't remember when her flight came home. The funny thing is looking back it was probably only one and a half minutes. The time to leave her a message and then call Jenny.

Prayers and Love to all today.

Why We Love Our Neighbors And Other Titles For Yesterday

- I am Superwoman And Can Push This Riding Lawnmower Out Of This Ditch.

- How To Add Gas To The Mower Without Dropping The Gas Cap In A Pile Of Fire Ants

- How To Make A Roasting Pan Double As A Casserole Dish When One Realizes They Underestimated The Size Of The Pyrex.

- Officer, I Am Really Sorry A Chunk Of Your Fence Got Caught In My Mower. (The neighbor happens to be a Sheriff's Deputy)

- How I Killed The Women's Lib Movement In One Simple Act Of Helping The Husband With The Mowing.

- I Got The Two Hour Ironing Down To One and A Half Hours. (The Pleats Will Not Win!)

- Don't Forget The Height Setting Of The Mower Or You May Just End Up With A Lawn That Closely Resembles A Marine Corps Recruit Hair Cut.

Contrary to the titles above I had a great and productive day yesterday. I managed to do all of my errands and visit with Kiera all before noon. Once I got home I was feeling a bit antsy and thought I would help Shawn by mowing the lawn. We are a bit behind since TS Fay came through since in order to effectively use the riding mower the lawn must be sort of dry we had to wait for the ground to sort of dry out. Once we were ready to go it started to rain again and things got postponed again. Yesterday I decided in true Missy fashion that I could totally do this myself. I got the mower out and set the blade to the highest setting for the first pass. My father taught me that when mowing the lawn each pass should overlap to ensure equal cutting. Since our lawn was a bit long I decided to go long first as to not choke the mower. The problem came when I tried to remember Shawn's setting for the regular cutting. I chose one a bit too short. When Aubs saw it she said "Wow, the lawn is short. At least you can wait longer to cut it again because it will take longer to grow back." During the course of the cutting I got the mower stuck in the ditch. I guess I did not allow the ground to dry enough. I had to push/pull it out myself. I could have gone to the lovely neighbor and asked for help but I was determined. I managed to get the mower out of the ditch and continue on my way only to grab a stray board from the neighbors fence. I did go to his door at that point. He got a good chuckle out of the situation and said that most of our side of the fence was a bit loose from the rain/storms. I only got stuck one more time and was able to fix it without a problem. I then decided to cook dinner. I am trying to cook enough food that I can get a few lunches out of the meal. I cooked two boxes of pasta last night and realized they would not fit in my casserole dish. I had to use the roasting pan. Anyone want some baked spaghetti?

New Hair

Aubs got a haircut this weekend. She had wanted it up to her ears and I had talked her into chin length. She was a bit apprehensive for the first day or two but now that she knows her and Aunt Honey have the same hair all seems well with the world again. Aubs had enough hair to donate to Locks of Love, when we explained what it was she was awfully excited to donate.
The after picture is from then next day. I had to do some fixing when we got home so the after pictures from the first day aren't a good representation.

Thoughts

- Oh S***.

- Is it okay to think someone is a hypocrite when wearing a "Green Chic" shirt they have their groceries put into plastic bags and then climb into their SUV?

- Did you know you can get a suntan at eight in the morning while walking Aubs to school?

- If anyone ever hears me say that the pleated skirts are so cute on little girls tell me to put it back on the rack. Please, I beg you. I just had to iron the two pleated skirts and one jumper with pleated bottoms and it was pretty freaking annoying.

- Ironing all the clothes for me and Aubs for the week took almost two hours. Stupid pleats.

School Has Resumed

Aubs has been back in school the past couple days. The weather still really sucks but at least my poor five year old is not stuck in the house. Her behavior can only be described as confirming the cabin fever myth. (We watched this Mythbusters this week) It wasn't that there was nothing here to do she just wanted to go outside or to Michaela's. She is loving kindergarten. Here are the things I learned from her the past two days:
- The art teacher is magic.
- The art teacher taught them color magic today but Aubs ripped her paper.
- The cafeteria makes really good jell-o with fruit. (She bought her first lunch today)

I have no idea what has happened in her regular class. Her Pre-K teacher called her last night. I only wish I could have been here to see her face. She has talked endlessly about Mrs. P. over the summer and how much she misses her. It really made her night.

Inner Barbarian

I just discovered BMX racing. How have I never seen this before? I hate to say this but I kind of liked it.

My former boss is one of the top ranked riders in the world in his age group. Gary S. I just gained a whole new level of respect for you.

Storm Update.

It has been wet, wet, wet all day. It is only a bit breezy but the water is out of control. Our front and side yards have standing water in them and from what I can tell we still have a few hours of rain ahead of us.

Aubs does not like the severe weather reports. She came and asked if I could find her a show that did not go BZZZZ, BZZZZ, BZZZZ and flash yellow stuff on the screen.

We had a very angry hawk friend for a while. He sat in one of the trees looking around and very very wet. He must have decided being in a high tree was not so smart and flew off.

What A Day.

Aubs and I both survived her first day of Kindergarten. Her second day of Kindergarten has been postponed until Wednesday at the earliest. I think it may be Thursday before she returns.

I had the best of intentions today to pick her up as a walker. As a child I always thought it would be fun to walk to school but always lived too far away. As it stands now Aubs will not take a bus until high school. As I walked the long way to pick her up 2.5 miles (there is a 1 mile path to get home). I made it 2 miles in and the first band of TS Fay hit the Central Florida area. Luckily Shawn was able to come and get us so that Aubs did not have to get soaked. I am still feeling a bit on the cold side, wet feet and air conditioning don't mix.

I also learned that a bike lock is the forgotten supply. Unfortunately for me everyone else did not forget.

Through Aubs commentary we learned the following:
- They all thought they would get a nap. They did not. Poor K was so tired that they laid their head on the table and may have gotten in trouble.
- Everyone but T was well behaved today. Aubs seems to think that this child pretends not to speak English so that they don't have to listen.
- They colored.
- They read. Not all of the kids can read like her and some just pretended.
- They did centers. The kitchen is not the same as pre-k so they had to use puzzle pieces as cookies.
- PE is no fun. They measured the kids and told them the rules. Aubs said that they were yelling. I think that is actually because the PE area is outside and has a roof on it. The roof is metal and may amplify the sound.
- She says that she likes Kindergarten but not so much.
- She had so much fun. (She is reading over my shoulder and yelling out corrections as I type.)

I Didn't Cry,

Not even one tear. I am not sure how I made it but I did. We dropped her off this morning. She was a bit nervous but I am sure she will be just fine. Her nametag has been scrapified. The teacher said that they would need to wear them all week so I decided we should fancy it up a bit. I also figured that it would go in a scrapbook so I might as well make it stronger with double cardstock. A bit of ribbon, some buttons, and a lanyard and we were good to go. She is by the way the only kid who remembered their nametag today.
The second picture is for Maury. That is the flag Shawn bought for the house.

The Big K

Dear Aubrey Beth,
Tomorrow you start Kindergarten. I am just not sure how this happened I am quite sure deep down in my heart that you are still the girl who can't say milk (nulk). You are well past those days now but still seem to like to throw in an extra n here and there for me. We have bought all your supplies and uniforms (new county wide policy for K-12) and have all of them laid out for the week. On paper it seems we are ready. I am nervous for you to start this new chapter of your life as a school aged child. You have done well at anything placed before you so I know you can do it. I am concerned that they may not be able to keep up with you, but I am sure you will let us know if there is a problem. We were so spoiled last year with a teacher that was willing to set aside time to work with you at your level. I hope the new teacher will do the same. You express yourself so well and can make decisions better than some of the adults I know.

I will have to remember to tell the teacher tomorrow that you think you are a Marine. I realized this when you saluted Miss Bobbie in dance class this weekend. Although I am quite sure if we tell you that Marines only get green dots behavior will not be an issue.

I can't wait to see what you learn this year, it will be quite an adventure for us all.

I love you and am so proud of you.

Love always and forever,
Mama

As If I Wasn't Already Sure

It has once again been proven to me that I am in real trouble with this kid. We just finished watching August Rush. As always she got up and danced to the final credits. She then started improvising a drum solo on her chair to go along. She also asked for a guitar. Anyone know where I can get a real child's sized guitar?

Why I Could Never Win A Gold Medal

Besides the fact that as far as coordination goes I am a bit lacking but I am pretty determined when I decide to do something. The real reason I could not have won a Gold Medal is I would have been a blubbering, sobbing, red faced, and runny nosed athlete on the stand. I saw them interview the women's backstroke winner and they asked her why she kept crying. Well DUH! I cannot even watch the telecast of the medal ceremony or the winning moments without tearing up. Example the Men's Gymnastics All Around Competition. God Love the Underdog. Also watching the US men win the 4 x 100 relay AWESOME. I cheered and cried. I also sent glaring looks at the French Team. I am all for competitive spirit, however if you are published saying you are going to "Smash" the other team, you should be able to back it up.

This Girl Is Just Not Normal

I should be keenly aware of the fact that my daughter is just not like the other kids. I am obsessed with the Olympics and hoped that my girl would want to watch some of the events with me. When I asked her if she would like to watch swimming she responded "No, Tennis." The only tennis that Aubs has ever seen is on the Wii.

Aubrey will start Kindergarten next week. She is having a bit of anxiety, but not over the things that one would think. First she was worried that we hadn't gotten her third folder. Today it was that she didn't think that she would be able to do the homework. I let her in on the secret that since she can read she is going to be fine. I told her that they would also have spelling lists and she said that she already knows how to spell. Once she realized that these things would be okay she informed me that she had one other problem. "I don't know how to write cursive." I had purchased the wrong type of notepad, who knew that the beginning writing tablet and Primary Composition with the dotted line in the middle are not really the same thing. She decided this morning to practice her letters and discovered that there is another way to write them.

Yes, I am aware that I am in some deep trouble here.

Bedtime Conversations With My Five Year Old

Not to be outdone by Michael's bedtime adventures we had one of our own this evening. Aubs was in quite the mood this evening and just did not want to go to bed. After much arguing and doing the exact opposite of what we asked the following scene occurred.

Aubrey crawling out of her room. (This is what she does when she does not want to be caught)

Aubs: I can't sleep.

Me: I don't want to hear it.

Aubs: But Mommy I can't sleep because God is talking to me and He just won't stop.

Me: (choking) What?!

Aubs: God is talking to me and He has a lot to say He won't stop.

Me: Is He saying anything important?

Aubs: No, He is just talking about comic books.

Me: Aubs, God is a pretty understanding man I am sure if you ask nicely He can comeback and talk to you in the morning.

Aubs: I keep asking Him in my head and He keeps going.

At this point Shawn came in and offered to intervene.

November

May be the best month of the year for me. First I got floor seats to NKOTB. Then today I saw this.

I cannot wait.

Conversations With My 5 Year Old

On Nature: Horses are just like lawnmowers. Except they are horses but they both eat grass.

On smiling for pictures: Me: "Aubs why are you making such a silly smiling face in all of your pictures recently?"
Aubs: "I am just trying out some new things. I haven't found one I like yet."

Me: "Can you only try out new smiles when Mommy is the photographer and use your real smile for other pictures?"

Aubs: "Well I can't find my real smile, I think I left it at Michaela's and she may be trying it out. Can you ask Jenny if they have seen it?"

Sometimes I Forget...

How lucky I am to have been born an American Citizen. It is something I think we all take for granted. Today at work one of the ladies came in beaming and said that she passed her test. When asked she stated "My citizenship test, I am an American Citizen.". Wow. Everyone in the break room cheered for her. I wish you all could have seen the pure joy on her face. Her ceremony is on Monday. It was such an amazing moment to see.

Congratulations Y!

I Am In Big Trouble With This One

Aubs has really been stepping up her developing fashion. It is so amazing to watch her put things together. We recently went accessory shopping (for Me) and she kept telling me that her necklaces she picked out were prettier than mine. She even went so far as to tell me "Carly would wear this, if you got this you would be pretty like My CarCar." She was right Carly would wear it but it wasn't appropriate for work.
Speaking of Car Car I think that she has really helped Aubs in her current obsession to be fashionable. On Sunday we took her shopping. She mostly dressed herself and went out wearing the following: 1 maxi dress in pink, white, orange, and purple, 1 pair of purple flip flops, 1 pair Juicy Couture earrings, 1 Coach patent leather pink wristlet (mine by the way, I forgot the rule of pink. If it is pink and comes into the house Aubs may just claim it as hers) and 1 pink sunhat. She was adorable. All that was missing was the giant sunglasses.

My Bravo TV Obsession

My obsession with all thing Bravo reality seems to be spilling over to Aubs. She has asked that I wait until we can watch the "Runway Girl Dress Making Contest Show" (Project Runway) together. She also loves the "Hair Cutting Show" she is so funny. Top Chef was also a big hit. I didn't know it at the time but it is relatively high rated show for 2-14 year olds (or something like that). It proved to be so popular for Bravo that I read they may even make a Kid's Top Chef.

I don't know if I can make it to Friday for Project Runway.

Movies From My Childhood Week

After Annie was such a hit with Aubs, I decided to share another childhood favorite. Tonight we watched Muppets Take Manhattan. I love Jim Henson and miss him as much as one could miss a person they never met. He was responsible for most of my very favorite movies as a child. All of the Muppet movies, Labyrinth, and The Dark Crystal still have a special place in my heart. Here are the thoughts I had while watching this movie:
- I still know this movie nearly word for word. Same for Annie.
- Watching the Jim Henson shows/movies make my heart sad.
- I am thankful for the digital media that allows me to share these films with my darling girl, and that she loves them as much as I did. (She has not yet seen Labyrinth and Dark Crystal, they may scare the crap out of her)
- I remember seeing this movie in the theater with the Binders.
- IMDB is a treasure trove of knowledge. Did you know that Dr. Crusher from Star Trek TNG was first a muppeteer, choreographed scenes in Labyrinth and the Dark Crystal, and is originally from Cuyahoga Falls?
- Thanks to IMDB I also learned that Uncle Traveling Matt is in the wedding scene.

Watch Out Uncle Danny My Uncle Danny*

I think Aubs may grow up to be a bit of a choreographer. She is watching Scooby Doo and has a whole dance for the theme song. It comes with a tumbling pass, cute plays on the words, and of course pointing at the audience. It is absolutely adorable.

*Uncle Danny My Uncle Danny is Kristen's husband. Uncle Danny Your Uncle Danny is Aunt Mary's husband.

Baby A Update

Our daycare providers grandson is doing really well. He is now breathing on his own, and eating. When I have more I will update. Thanks for all the prayers.

What A Great Day

Today Aubs and I spent a wonderful day together we made muffins, chicken and broccoli casserole, and popcorn. We also watched Annie. Aubs had not seen this movie yet and I convinced her it would be a great idea. She wasn't sure but decided to humor me anyhow. She has decided that it is a wonderful movie and has been dancing around all evening. It is amazing how a movie that came out when I was her age can bring the two of us such a great evening.

Happy 4th Everyone

I hope you all have a wonderful and safe Fourth of July. On the Fourth I really get a bit homesick, Stow had one of the best parades ever. I also want to take the time to tell Jesse and Jake how proud I am of them. They made the decision to join the Armed Forces. Thanks guys.

New Milestone

Mom you may need a breathing treatment handy for this one and put down the coffee.

I have started a new job that requires I work some evenings. Yesterday was one such evening and when I spoke to Shawn this morning he asked if Aubs had told me what happened last night. I told him that she had not and he went on to recount the following harrowing tale.

Aubs was reading a catalogue that had come yesterday. She found a discount card that was stuck in with the sticky glue, kind of like the glue dots for scrapbooking, and pulled out the card. She took the stuff off of the back and must have thought it looked like snot because the next thing she did was stuff it up her nose.

She then went in to see Shawn in the next room and said "I have to tell you something" In our house those are the six most feared words. If they are followed by "and your not going to like it" one should run quickly away. She then explained to Shawn that she had stuck this stuff up her nose "and it won't come out".

Shawn had her lie down on the bed so he could look up her nose. He didn't see anything (probably because the stuff looks like regulation boogers). Aubs decided to just blow really hard out her nose while Shawn was looking and the glue came flying out at him.

Man am I ever sorry I wasn't here to see it. Aubrey has now joined the ranks of kids that stick things up their nose. Somewhere in Heaven my mother-in-law is laughing so hard I am surprised we cannot hear her.

Aunt Maury

Happy Birthday Aunt Maury.

Yes I do realize that you may very well want to "Kick My A**" for posting this picture. However I thought that since your favoritest Great Niece had taken it you may forgive me. I love you. Have A Great Day.

Prayers Please

We have been very fortunate to find a daycare provider for Aubs that is really more like an extension of family instead of just a place she goes every day. Her daughter's son was born very early Monday morning. He was born somewhere between 8 and 12 weeks early. They had originally thought he was 12 weeks early but since he started breathing right away and is quite wiggly they think that she may have been a little further along. He is doing well and has a breathing tube for rescue situations. He is a little over 3 lbs and 16 inches long. They say that he is doing very well for a preemie. His father is currently a contractor overseas and is rushing back and hopes to be home by tomorrow.
Please pray for this family that means so much to us and wrap them in prayers and loving thoughts, just as they do for Aubs on a daily basis.

Conversations With My 5 Year Old

Aubrey is painting today. Here is what occurred while she was trying to mix colors.

A: What happens when you mix black and red.

M: Since Black is the darkest it should still be black.

A: Oh.

A few moments of silence later this took place:

A: Mama, mama if you mix a little black into red it turns brown. It is a lighter brown than I already have. I have to tell everyone about this.


I stand corrected. In order to help Aubs tell everyone about this I thought I should post it.