Friday, October 24, 2014
Thursday, August 7, 2014
A bit of a throwback story for today ... Another one of those videos showing a baby reacting to their favorite song just popped up on my feed again, and it reminded me of Gwyn.
A few of you may remember that as a baby, Gwyn was not a huge fan of the car. And we spent a lot of time in the car when she was little, driving from Alabama to home, or to the beach, etc. The only music that calmed her down and usually put her to sleep was rap. And I'm not talking about any old rap. She liked the hard stuff. The hardcore gangsta rap from the streets, man.
So, obviously, she grew out of her loathing of car rides, and we stopped listening to that music, for obvious reasons. (Hardcore gangsta rap isn't really appropriate for children. At least not for ones who can understand the words.)
This week, as we were moving, we spent a lot of time in the car. My iPod was on shuffle, and when one of these old favorites popped up, we listened to it for old time's sake. And I kid you not, Gwyn's eyes immediately got this glazed look, and she was asleep by the time the song was over. This happened again the next day, in the morning, as well, although she didn't fall asleep.
I thought it was so funny that even after about 3 years of not listening to it, it still had the same affect.
Her favorite album? Blood Money by Lord Infamous. Her favorite song off it is Chopper Talk.
A few of you may remember that as a baby, Gwyn was not a huge fan of the car. And we spent a lot of time in the car when she was little, driving from Alabama to home, or to the beach, etc. The only music that calmed her down and usually put her to sleep was rap. And I'm not talking about any old rap. She liked the hard stuff. The hardcore gangsta rap from the streets, man.
So, obviously, she grew out of her loathing of car rides, and we stopped listening to that music, for obvious reasons. (Hardcore gangsta rap isn't really appropriate for children. At least not for ones who can understand the words.)
This week, as we were moving, we spent a lot of time in the car. My iPod was on shuffle, and when one of these old favorites popped up, we listened to it for old time's sake. And I kid you not, Gwyn's eyes immediately got this glazed look, and she was asleep by the time the song was over. This happened again the next day, in the morning, as well, although she didn't fall asleep.
I thought it was so funny that even after about 3 years of not listening to it, it still had the same affect.
Her favorite album? Blood Money by Lord Infamous. Her favorite song off it is Chopper Talk.
Wednesday, July 16, 2014
"Science, yo!"
Win and I have been watching Breaking Bad, finally. And every time there is a chemistry seen, I think, "Oh man, Bean Dip would love this show. If only there wasn't so much graphic violence." Yeah, BD has decided he's into chemistry, and he asked for and received a chemistry set for his birthday.
Today, we finally got down business. We first had to suit up -- gloves, masks, and goggles, as per instructions. Then we proceeded to make a litmus solution and learn about acids and bases. It was also another lesson in patience for me. BD learned the difference between "a few drops" and just squirting the entire contents into the test tube. Baby G learned to blow up her gloves into a balloon.
The only read downside of the experiments, as I can see, is that it is quite time consuming. There was a lot of waiting for things to filter. Also, one experiment runs into the next one, so it is hard to find a good stopping point. And BD is scared of the chemicals.
But, we'll persevere. I always enjoyed chemistry. Funnily enough, I really enjoyed the equation part of it -- it was like math, but not. I understood it better than math. I don't know exactly what BD is expecting with chemistry (probably explosions or something), but this will be a good introduction.
As long as I keep patient.
Today, we finally got down business. We first had to suit up -- gloves, masks, and goggles, as per instructions. Then we proceeded to make a litmus solution and learn about acids and bases. It was also another lesson in patience for me. BD learned the difference between "a few drops" and just squirting the entire contents into the test tube. Baby G learned to blow up her gloves into a balloon.
The only read downside of the experiments, as I can see, is that it is quite time consuming. There was a lot of waiting for things to filter. Also, one experiment runs into the next one, so it is hard to find a good stopping point. And BD is scared of the chemicals.
But, we'll persevere. I always enjoyed chemistry. Funnily enough, I really enjoyed the equation part of it -- it was like math, but not. I understood it better than math. I don't know exactly what BD is expecting with chemistry (probably explosions or something), but this will be a good introduction.
As long as I keep patient.
Monday, June 30, 2014
Bean Dip's birthday party was this weekend, and I am pretty sure it was a success. My mom was here, and Katherine and Collins came as well. We also had the neighbors, Alex and Mary and the kids, and Ivy came as well.
We kept it simple this year. We did pizza for the meal and I just bought mini cupcakes for the cake part. My cherry cake for his actual birthday was enough baking this week. I also had fresh fruit and veggies and hummus as well, something healthy to balance out the delicious pizza. My mom was a great help in that she did all the food prep while I tore around the house cleaning up.
We had the pool and the slip'n'slide and games set up in the backyard. BD and Ivy picked up right where they left off and and ran around playing all afternoon. G and Cameron spent (quite literally) hours in the pool. They came out only for the science experiment, food, and presents. And the occasional cupcake. They swam until 7 p.m.
We did the silly putty experiment for all the kids. I also just had that as the "goody bag" for the kids. They got to take home the results of their experiment. Basically, we mixed glue, water, and borax to make a wonderful goop like silly putty. The sound of the kids saying "wow!" all together when the mixture came together was priceless. It was fun, a little messy, and a lot of fun.
After that, we ate, opened presents and had cake. This year, I got all the birthday stuff wrapped up fairly quickly, and then I could relax! We spent the rest of the evening hanging out. BD put together all his new Legos, finally quitting at almost 10 p.m. when he couldn't function any more. Win had to help him with his last one. It was a great party, and I know BD was really happy.
Silly Putty Recipe: http://pagingfunmums.com/2014/06/13/frozen-silly-putty/
We kept it simple this year. We did pizza for the meal and I just bought mini cupcakes for the cake part. My cherry cake for his actual birthday was enough baking this week. I also had fresh fruit and veggies and hummus as well, something healthy to balance out the delicious pizza. My mom was a great help in that she did all the food prep while I tore around the house cleaning up.
We had the pool and the slip'n'slide and games set up in the backyard. BD and Ivy picked up right where they left off and and ran around playing all afternoon. G and Cameron spent (quite literally) hours in the pool. They came out only for the science experiment, food, and presents. And the occasional cupcake. They swam until 7 p.m.
We did the silly putty experiment for all the kids. I also just had that as the "goody bag" for the kids. They got to take home the results of their experiment. Basically, we mixed glue, water, and borax to make a wonderful goop like silly putty. The sound of the kids saying "wow!" all together when the mixture came together was priceless. It was fun, a little messy, and a lot of fun.
After that, we ate, opened presents and had cake. This year, I got all the birthday stuff wrapped up fairly quickly, and then I could relax! We spent the rest of the evening hanging out. BD put together all his new Legos, finally quitting at almost 10 p.m. when he couldn't function any more. Win had to help him with his last one. It was a great party, and I know BD was really happy.
Friday, June 27, 2014
Another big first for us this week -- we attended our first first military ball. It was sort of a last minute decision, so I only had two weeks to find a dress, shoes, etc., but I managed, and we attended.
It was at a hotel in downtown Nashville, and we rode down with our good friends. Mom came to visit and to babysit for us. It was fun, and definitely an unique experience. I can only imagine what all the people checking into the hotel thought of the hundreds of soldiers in dress blues and spouses in the black tie formal milling about.
The ball was filled with lots of formality and tradition. Some of my favorite parts included the singing of the national anthem. The soldier chosen to sing was really nervous and could not get through it. So everyone started singing with him, to finish it. I also really enjoyed the guest speaker, a retired general who had once been the commander of Fort Campbell. He spoke for a long time, and he was incredible because he gave real, direct, truthful advice and opinion about what is currently happening in today's Army and the world. And the last event of the evening was the grog ceremony, which I don't know anything about, except that it honored all the former conflicts and resulted in what must have been a fairly undrinkable concoction that lots of people were lining up to drink.
We left when the dancing started, because we had to get back home. But that was fine. I'm glad we went.
It was at a hotel in downtown Nashville, and we rode down with our good friends. Mom came to visit and to babysit for us. It was fun, and definitely an unique experience. I can only imagine what all the people checking into the hotel thought of the hundreds of soldiers in dress blues and spouses in the black tie formal milling about.
The ball was filled with lots of formality and tradition. Some of my favorite parts included the singing of the national anthem. The soldier chosen to sing was really nervous and could not get through it. So everyone started singing with him, to finish it. I also really enjoyed the guest speaker, a retired general who had once been the commander of Fort Campbell. He spoke for a long time, and he was incredible because he gave real, direct, truthful advice and opinion about what is currently happening in today's Army and the world. And the last event of the evening was the grog ceremony, which I don't know anything about, except that it honored all the former conflicts and resulted in what must have been a fairly undrinkable concoction that lots of people were lining up to drink.
We left when the dancing started, because we had to get back home. But that was fine. I'm glad we went.
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
Swimming lessons went well, even though I forgot their goggles. On the way home, I asked BD what he wanted for lunch, and he picked Subway. Perfect. He ordered his sandwich, much to the delight of the workers and the old guy behind us. The sandwich he picked was: roast beef on Italian bread, no cheese, heated, with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, olives, yellow peppers, jalapenos, and steak sauce. He ate the whole thing and said it was delicious.
We did a little science experiment that afternoon. We made silly putty. It was a project Win found on the Internet. Basically, you mix glue, water, and borax, and it turns into the crazy goop. We used clear glue and added food coloring and glitter. It was super easy and so awesome to watch it change from liquid to solid. BD has been into chemistry lately, so this was a fun, easy experiment.
We went out to dinner at Olive Garden that night, a nod to BD's "Italian" heritage. Olive Garden is the most "Italian" restaurant in Clarksville. We had a great time, and the food was delicious. Baby G ordered spaghetti with marinara sauce and shrimp, and BD chose one of the small plates off the adult menu -- polenta with shrimp, olives, and capers. It was really good -- we traded plates after a bit so he could eat the rest of my risotto while I ate his polenta.
Bean Dip had decided he wanted a party on his real birthday. We settled for sharing his cake with the neighbors. So after we got home from dinner, we got everyone together (that included Scott yelling across the cul-de-sac to Earl) for cake and ice cream. This year, BD requested a cherry cake. I ended up making a vanilla cake layered with homemade cherry filling, homemade vanilla butter cream, and fresh cherries on top. It turned out amazing -- I think I've finally mastered buttercream (the secret is to have the butter really soft). So we all had a little party in the driveway, and BD also got to practice his skateboarding.
We got him a skateboard for his birthday, which I think was a complete surprise for him, and he loves it. He also finally got his much-wanted alarm clock, a Lego Darth Vader one. And of course, more Star Wars Legos.
Monday, June 23, 2014
Friday, June 13, 2014
A Detour
On our way home on Sunday, we hit traffic almost immediately upon leaving. Instead of sitting on the highway, we took a detour and ended going home via I-55. The route took us south through Missouri, with us crossing the Mississippi in Cape Girardeau. We then hopped on The Great River Road in Illinois (Illinois Route 3), and meandered through small towns until we crossed the Ohio River in Cairo, Ill.
So, here's the deal. I had always heard of Cairo and always wondered why that area of Illinois has all these Egyptian names (Lake of Egypt, Promised Land, Olive Branch, Alexander). Then we drove straight through Cairo.
That was an experience. I was expecting a fairly large, normal southern Illinois town. Well, it was large, but desolate. Beautiful old buildings completely abandoned. Falling down buildings, a few open gas stations, and just a few people wandering around. It was quite shocking.
So after we crossed the bridge into Kentucky, I started googling and found out Cairo has quite a history I knew nothing about. It is essentially an abandoned town, due to economic collapse and the evacuation of the entire city in 2011 due to flooding. But before that, there were decades of decline and racial strife. The city was at its peak during and just after the Civil War, when it was a key port city for General Grant. After that, and after the bridges across the river were built, the decline started.
I found it fascinating. I had no idea it had such a history. I'm glad I learned something new, but I don't think we will take that route again.
For more information: The Cairo Project
A Trip to Cairo, Illinois
So, here's the deal. I had always heard of Cairo and always wondered why that area of Illinois has all these Egyptian names (Lake of Egypt, Promised Land, Olive Branch, Alexander). Then we drove straight through Cairo.
That was an experience. I was expecting a fairly large, normal southern Illinois town. Well, it was large, but desolate. Beautiful old buildings completely abandoned. Falling down buildings, a few open gas stations, and just a few people wandering around. It was quite shocking.
So after we crossed the bridge into Kentucky, I started googling and found out Cairo has quite a history I knew nothing about. It is essentially an abandoned town, due to economic collapse and the evacuation of the entire city in 2011 due to flooding. But before that, there were decades of decline and racial strife. The city was at its peak during and just after the Civil War, when it was a key port city for General Grant. After that, and after the bridges across the river were built, the decline started.
I found it fascinating. I had no idea it had such a history. I'm glad I learned something new, but I don't think we will take that route again.
For more information: The Cairo Project
A Trip to Cairo, Illinois
Saturday, June 7, 2014
This Week ...
1. This guy:
2. And this: Elliot Rodger is a madman that we as a culture have created
3. This blog: Mozzarella Mama. She is a journalist living in Rome, and recently she was part of the journalist group that traveled to Israel with the Pope. I also loved this post about an artist/architect in Rome.
4. This article: Why team Obama was blindsided by the Bergdahl Backlash.
Happy Saturday!
2. And this: Elliot Rodger is a madman that we as a culture have created
3. This blog: Mozzarella Mama. She is a journalist living in Rome, and recently she was part of the journalist group that traveled to Israel with the Pope. I also loved this post about an artist/architect in Rome.
4. This article: Why team Obama was blindsided by the Bergdahl Backlash.
Happy Saturday!
Friday, June 6, 2014
I just read this blog post, which was pretty much exactly what I was going to write about today, minus the sponsor, of course. The absolute best thing about where we live right now is our neighbors. And now that it's summer, we are spending more and more time outside with them.
Kellie (from across the street) and I joke about our "stalker" children. They are always watching out the window to see if the others are outside playing. The minute they do, it's constant begging until we can go outside. I don't mind, because they have so much fun together, and Kellie and I can hang out while they play.
Yesterday, we headed out. It was cool, and Kellie had her windows open, so Gwyn and Lem stood at the curb and yelled across the street to tell Cameron (in the window) to come outside. About 5 minutes later, they were out. Soon after, Earl showed up on his bike (he lives next door to us) and started teaching Lem to play four square. Then Kellie's next door neighbors showed up -- Sherlique and Jemaya. And soon after, Caleb from a few houses down joined in the game as well.
So there was a lot going on, and we spent the whole afternoon outside. It's so nice for many reasons -- being outside, unstructured playtime, socialization, and a break for me. Eventually, we had to come inside for dinner, but soon after we were back outside so Lem and Earl could play two square, and Cameron and Gwyn could pretend to be birds and dogs.
I think this is what summer is all about.
Kellie (from across the street) and I joke about our "stalker" children. They are always watching out the window to see if the others are outside playing. The minute they do, it's constant begging until we can go outside. I don't mind, because they have so much fun together, and Kellie and I can hang out while they play.
Yesterday, we headed out. It was cool, and Kellie had her windows open, so Gwyn and Lem stood at the curb and yelled across the street to tell Cameron (in the window) to come outside. About 5 minutes later, they were out. Soon after, Earl showed up on his bike (he lives next door to us) and started teaching Lem to play four square. Then Kellie's next door neighbors showed up -- Sherlique and Jemaya. And soon after, Caleb from a few houses down joined in the game as well.
So there was a lot going on, and we spent the whole afternoon outside. It's so nice for many reasons -- being outside, unstructured playtime, socialization, and a break for me. Eventually, we had to come inside for dinner, but soon after we were back outside so Lem and Earl could play two square, and Cameron and Gwyn could pretend to be birds and dogs.
I think this is what summer is all about.
Wednesday, June 4, 2014
Wednesday, May 28, 2014
Pickin' on the Porch
On Saturday, we went to Pickin' on the Porch at MB Roland Distillery in Pembroke, Ky. This is a free summer concert series the distillery hosts. You are welcome to bring your kids, dogs, food, chairs, etc. Just don't bring your own alcohol. But that is fine, because the moonshine they make is delicious, and if you aren't interested in moonshine sno cones, they also sell craft beer by the growler. They also have food trucks as well, in case you forget to bring a picnic dinner.
The music was old country -- lots of Merle Haggard, and the band was excellent. The back porch of the old farmhouse that is the distillery store was the stage, and we had great seats -- excellent views of the band and for people watching.
We all had a good time. The kids danced and inhaled their never-ending sno cones (you buy a cup and it's good for the whole summer). We got dinner from the food trucks, but next time we'll bring a picnic. We sat with friends and just had a great time out in the country listening to good music.
For more information: MB Roland Distillery.
The music was old country -- lots of Merle Haggard, and the band was excellent. The back porch of the old farmhouse that is the distillery store was the stage, and we had great seats -- excellent views of the band and for people watching.
We all had a good time. The kids danced and inhaled their never-ending sno cones (you buy a cup and it's good for the whole summer). We got dinner from the food trucks, but next time we'll bring a picnic. We sat with friends and just had a great time out in the country listening to good music.
For more information: MB Roland Distillery.
Thursday, May 22, 2014
Wednesday, May 21, 2014
Almost to the end ...
The last few weeks have been busy, busy, busy with the end of soccer and school. This week is Lem's last, and after tomorrow summer will officially start!
And with the start of summer, I hope to make up for my lack of blogging and catch up. I also have lots and lots of pictures to go through.
We still have time to read, however. Right now, I'm reading The Art of Simple Food by Alice Waters. It is a cookbook, but I'm reading it like a novel. I am reading Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix to Lem. I am reading Ramona the Pest with Gwyn. Lem is also reading a Star Wars book, Farmer Boy, and I think he has a couple others in the mix. Win is reading a Star Wars book as well.
And with the start of summer, I hope to make up for my lack of blogging and catch up. I also have lots and lots of pictures to go through.
We still have time to read, however. Right now, I'm reading The Art of Simple Food by Alice Waters. It is a cookbook, but I'm reading it like a novel. I am reading Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix to Lem. I am reading Ramona the Pest with Gwyn. Lem is also reading a Star Wars book, Farmer Boy, and I think he has a couple others in the mix. Win is reading a Star Wars book as well.
Monday, May 19, 2014
Bean Dip's last big project of the year was a research project on an ocean animal. He chose, to no one's surprise, the giant squid.
This was one homework project that he loved. He actually said while working on it, "This is fun." He kept talking about how scared everyone was going to be when they saw his picture of the giant squid.
I drew the squid and he colored it and did all the labeling and writing.
He has been talking nonstop about the kraken and giant squids all spring, so this was a perfect project for him. The morning he took it into school he said, "I hope no one faints when I tell them it can weigh 440 pounds!" I told him that if someone does, his teacher will know what to do. Thankfully, no fainted or screamed in fright when he presented his project.
This was one homework project that he loved. He actually said while working on it, "This is fun." He kept talking about how scared everyone was going to be when they saw his picture of the giant squid.
I drew the squid and he colored it and did all the labeling and writing.
He has been talking nonstop about the kraken and giant squids all spring, so this was a perfect project for him. The morning he took it into school he said, "I hope no one faints when I tell them it can weigh 440 pounds!" I told him that if someone does, his teacher will know what to do. Thankfully, no fainted or screamed in fright when he presented his project.
Thursday, May 15, 2014
Monday, April 7, 2014
Friday afternoon was sunny and warm, and after school we were all outside enjoying the weather. Lem had asked me to buy him a real coconut, and I decided then was a good time to crack it open. Kellie, Black, Cameron, and Earl were all over, so it was fun times for all.
We started by drilling holes into the eyes and emptying out the water. Almost everyone tried it ... it was too sweet for Lem and Earl, Cameron didn't try it, but Gwyn and Blake liked it. It was very sweet, and the little husk-floaties in it certainly added to the chewiness.
Then I got out the hammer and cracked it open. Eveyone tried the meat, but I think Gwyn and Blake liked it the most. Then the kids proceeded to throw the husk pieces around the yard while I worked at getting all the meat off.
But even if they didn't actually eat a lot of it, I figure it is the experience of hammering open an actual coconut that is the real treat. Next time, we'll do it on a tropical beach somewhere.
Saturday, April 5, 2014
Lem had another awards ceremony on Friday for the end of the third quarter. Gwyn and I attended, to see Lem receive his third quarter straight A award. He has had straight As all year. He also won another award this time, for showing integrity in the classroom. His teacher said she can always count on him to make "smart choices."
What's funny is the school mascot is a pirate, so Lem's award is for "Pirate Integrity." I'm not exactly sure how honest and moral pirates usually are ...
What's funny is the school mascot is a pirate, so Lem's award is for "Pirate Integrity." I'm not exactly sure how honest and moral pirates usually are ...
Friday, April 4, 2014
Spring Soccer '14
The spring soccer season started this week. This is Lem's fourth time playing and Gwyn's first. We will be spending some long evenings at the field with back-to-back practices this year.
They've had one night of practice so far, and it was quickly cancelled due to lightning. Lem at least got to start his practice. he knows two kids on his time -- a boy from kindergarten and a girl from his basketball team. I am happy about that -- I think he will enjoy it more just by having some friends on the team.
Gwyn was all ready to play but her practice was cancelled before it ever got started. She was so excited to wear her new pink running shorts and new pink soccer socks. Cameron from across the street is on her team as well, so she has a friend, too.
I had brought a picnic dinner for the kids, so after Lem's practice was cancelled, we headed to the car to wait for the official call for Gwyn's practice. They sat in the back of the car and ate their dinners, and they had a blast doing it. I have to admit, having a true "soccer mom" SUV definitely has its advantages. When it started to rain, I just had them crawl over the seats into their carseats and headed home.
To celebrate our attempt at the first practice, and the fact that they'd been so good about it (putting on shin guards, socks, and cleats is a special torture for me), we went through the drive thru at Sonic for some celebratory milkshakes.
They've had one night of practice so far, and it was quickly cancelled due to lightning. Lem at least got to start his practice. he knows two kids on his time -- a boy from kindergarten and a girl from his basketball team. I am happy about that -- I think he will enjoy it more just by having some friends on the team.
Gwyn was all ready to play but her practice was cancelled before it ever got started. She was so excited to wear her new pink running shorts and new pink soccer socks. Cameron from across the street is on her team as well, so she has a friend, too.
I had brought a picnic dinner for the kids, so after Lem's practice was cancelled, we headed to the car to wait for the official call for Gwyn's practice. They sat in the back of the car and ate their dinners, and they had a blast doing it. I have to admit, having a true "soccer mom" SUV definitely has its advantages. When it started to rain, I just had them crawl over the seats into their carseats and headed home.
To celebrate our attempt at the first practice, and the fact that they'd been so good about it (putting on shin guards, socks, and cleats is a special torture for me), we went through the drive thru at Sonic for some celebratory milkshakes.
Wednesday, April 2, 2014
Monday, March 31, 2014
We finished up spring break with a great weekend at home. The kids and I spent part of spring break in Illinois, while Win spent 3 weeks in Louisiana playing Army. We all got back to Clarksville on Wednesday and had a quiet rest of the week. The big event of the weekend was attending a roller derby bout of the Red River Sirens in Clarksville. It turns out that it is a totally family friendly event. Our neighbors came too, and so did Alex and Mary, so we had a good group while we watched the girls knock each other down. It wasn't too violent, but lots of falling, which was entertaining. We didn't understand at all how it is played, but that wasn't too important to us. I think the kids enjoyed it. Of course they got soda and chips and candy, and ended up running in circles behind the seats with some other kids.
Today we are all back to the grind. Soccer also starts this week, and this will be our first season with both Bean Dip and G playing. Yesterday afternoon we played outside with Cameron, Blake, and Earl, kicking all the soccer balls and having a good time. G is very excited to play, and probably most exited about wearing pink socks and kicking her pink soccer ball.
Today we are all back to the grind. Soccer also starts this week, and this will be our first season with both Bean Dip and G playing. Yesterday afternoon we played outside with Cameron, Blake, and Earl, kicking all the soccer balls and having a good time. G is very excited to play, and probably most exited about wearing pink socks and kicking her pink soccer ball.
Friday, March 28, 2014
An Afternoon at SLAM
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| Contemplating modern art at SLAM. |
While we were in Illinois for spring break, we spent an afternoon at the St. Louis Art Museum with Oma. It had been a few years since we'd been there, and since then, there is a brand-new wing open.
The kids dragged their feet at the beginning, so I made the executive decision to have our cafe stop first. After some cookies and refreshments, we were ready to hit the museum.
We saw our old favorites -- the impressionists and the mummies, then checked out the modern art in the new wing. G's biggest concern was that there wasn't enough pink in the paintings. They both found a lot of the art to be more interesting when viewed through their mini kaleidoscopes, as shown in the picture above. And yes, that's a single fluorescent light bulb.
Oma and I let the kids lead the way for the most part. I think they liked being "explorers" and finding new parts of the museum on their own. We went up the stairs, down the stairs, criss-crossed the lobby and found levels that were completely empty. It was so much fun.
Monday, March 17, 2014
Conversation with Bean Dip
At lunch yesterday, Bean Dip brought up the ending of "Horton Hears a Who," which his class watched in school on Friday as part of their Dr. Seuss celebration. He told me that at the end, the Jungle of Nool was shown as a tiny speck of dust floating in space. I said, "So it's perspective, right? The Whos of Whoville didn't know they were a speck of dust either ... until Horton heard them. What if our universe is really a encased in a drop of dew on a leaf somewhere in a whole giant new world? Blows your mind, doesn't it?"
Bean Dip said, "I don't think that's true. I think there's an end of the universe somewhere, and when you get to the end you just drop off."
I said, "Lem, did you know that that is exactly what people thought back before North America was discovered? Before anyone sailed west away from Europe, everyone thought that the world was flat and if you sailed too far you would fall off the edge."
Then I said, "When you grow up, you can sail to the end of the universe and see what is at the end. Maybe you'll see the edge of an even bigger world. "
Bean Dip thought for a bit and then said, "What if I sail to the end and all that's there is a gas station? Wouldn't that be funny?"
And I said, "Yes. That would be the most epic joke of the Cosmos."
Bean Dip said, "I don't think that's true. I think there's an end of the universe somewhere, and when you get to the end you just drop off."
I said, "Lem, did you know that that is exactly what people thought back before North America was discovered? Before anyone sailed west away from Europe, everyone thought that the world was flat and if you sailed too far you would fall off the edge."
Then I said, "When you grow up, you can sail to the end of the universe and see what is at the end. Maybe you'll see the edge of an even bigger world. "
Bean Dip thought for a bit and then said, "What if I sail to the end and all that's there is a gas station? Wouldn't that be funny?"
And I said, "Yes. That would be the most epic joke of the Cosmos."
Saturday, March 15, 2014
This week, Bean Dip's school had Family Fitness Week. Parents were invited to come to school and participate in their child's PE class, and on Thursday night, the school hosted Family Fitness Night. Bean Dip was so excited about it, so we went.
It really was a lot of fun. The PE teacher started everyone off by leading a dance to warm up our muscles. Then we were free to try all the different stations around the two gyms. The students were familiar with it all, so they were in charge of explaining each one to their families.
The perk of going to a brand-new school? Fantastic facilities. Bean Dip's gym is equipped with a "bouldering wall," rope climbs, a climbing wall, hoola hoops, jump ropes, pull-up bars, etc. Bean Dip couldn't wait to show off how he does the bouldering wall, which has climbing wall hand grasps but works more like monkey bars -- you use only your upper body to work your way across. He zipped across it no problem. He also zipped up the rope as well, smashed through the rope jumping, and spent the rest of his time on the climbing wall. G had fun too, running around, jumping on the trampoline, working out her muscles with the free weights. The whole time, fun music was blasting and all the kids and parents were running around.
And so on Friday, G and I came to Bean Dip's PE class, which was much of the same, only we had to follow the teacher's instructions. BD was so happy that we were there, and we had a good time again. I even tried out the climbing all this time. And as we were leaving, one of the other PE teachers told me BD's one of the only first graders that can do the bouldering wall.
It really was a lot of fun. The PE teacher started everyone off by leading a dance to warm up our muscles. Then we were free to try all the different stations around the two gyms. The students were familiar with it all, so they were in charge of explaining each one to their families.
The perk of going to a brand-new school? Fantastic facilities. Bean Dip's gym is equipped with a "bouldering wall," rope climbs, a climbing wall, hoola hoops, jump ropes, pull-up bars, etc. Bean Dip couldn't wait to show off how he does the bouldering wall, which has climbing wall hand grasps but works more like monkey bars -- you use only your upper body to work your way across. He zipped across it no problem. He also zipped up the rope as well, smashed through the rope jumping, and spent the rest of his time on the climbing wall. G had fun too, running around, jumping on the trampoline, working out her muscles with the free weights. The whole time, fun music was blasting and all the kids and parents were running around.
And so on Friday, G and I came to Bean Dip's PE class, which was much of the same, only we had to follow the teacher's instructions. BD was so happy that we were there, and we had a good time again. I even tried out the climbing all this time. And as we were leaving, one of the other PE teachers told me BD's one of the only first graders that can do the bouldering wall.
Monday, March 10, 2014
This Monday morning was a little rough ... a full week of snow days and Daylight Savings meant we were all slow to get out of bed. But luckily, no one was too cranky. It helps that we had a weekend of fantastic weather.
Saturday, we went across the street for Cameron's birthday party. It was a lot of fun, and then we spent the rest of hte afternoon outside in the front yard. Bean Dip tried out his new water gun (that he bought with his own money), and Baby G and Cameron made a mud hole. It was messy, but it was warm and sunny, and they were happy, so we let them be.
Sunday afternoon, the kids played in the backyard, where there was still some lingering ice in the shade of the house. Kellie and I just watched them, cracking up as the kids fell over and over playing on the ice. They were laughing, too, and it was hilarious.
Saturday, we went across the street for Cameron's birthday party. It was a lot of fun, and then we spent the rest of hte afternoon outside in the front yard. Bean Dip tried out his new water gun (that he bought with his own money), and Baby G and Cameron made a mud hole. It was messy, but it was warm and sunny, and they were happy, so we let them be.
Sunday afternoon, the kids played in the backyard, where there was still some lingering ice in the shade of the house. Kellie and I just watched them, cracking up as the kids fell over and over playing on the ice. They were laughing, too, and it was hilarious.
Saturday, March 8, 2014
Friday, March 7, 2014
Can we just call this an act of God?
We are on Snow Day No. 5. The late winter storm that moved through Sunday night was the one that finally hit us hard. We got about 4 inches of sleet with an inch of snow on top, and it's been so much fun. The first three days off of school and work was understandable. Yesterday was not a complete surprise, but today?! It was warm and sunny yesterday and the roads were looking much, much better. I guess the backroads and parking lots are still covered, and Tennessee is not prepared for this kind of weather. Our street didn't get plowed until late Wednesday afternoon.
Anyway, it has been lots of fun. Fort Campbell was closed the first three days as well, so Win was home too. The sleet isn't great for making snowballs, but it is a lot of fun to skate on. Win got out our random extra tire and pulled the kids around on it. We've watched lots of movies and hung out with our neighbors, and been very thankful to have a 4-wheeled drive vehicle.
It is supposed to be in the 50s today, and it's wonderfully sunny out. And a high of almost 60 tomorrow, so the sleet should be gone by the end of the weekend.
Anyway, it has been lots of fun. Fort Campbell was closed the first three days as well, so Win was home too. The sleet isn't great for making snowballs, but it is a lot of fun to skate on. Win got out our random extra tire and pulled the kids around on it. We've watched lots of movies and hung out with our neighbors, and been very thankful to have a 4-wheeled drive vehicle.
It is supposed to be in the 50s today, and it's wonderfully sunny out. And a high of almost 60 tomorrow, so the sleet should be gone by the end of the weekend.
Friday, February 28, 2014
I went to Bean Dip's book fair yesterday. He came with me, and we had a good time picking out and negotiating which books he could get. He had been to the fair the day before and had made a wish list, which was pretty long. Luckily, we came to a decision without any fighting.
So, ultimately, he chose Captain Underpants (In full color!), Diary of a Wimpy Kid, and a book about the Titanic. I found a book for myself as well, Z: A novel of Zelda Fitzgerald by Therese Anne Fowler. After reading The Paris Wife, I hope this one is just as good.
After we played outside yesterday, we came in, and Bean Dip sat down and read for a solid two hours. He likes to read multiple books at once (just like his dad). He would take a break from one book to read another, but he didn't move from the table until it was time for dinner. And he finished Diary of a Wimpy Kid later that night.
I'm so happy that he loves to read, but it is hard keeping up with him!
So, ultimately, he chose Captain Underpants (In full color!), Diary of a Wimpy Kid, and a book about the Titanic. I found a book for myself as well, Z: A novel of Zelda Fitzgerald by Therese Anne Fowler. After reading The Paris Wife, I hope this one is just as good.
After we played outside yesterday, we came in, and Bean Dip sat down and read for a solid two hours. He likes to read multiple books at once (just like his dad). He would take a break from one book to read another, but he didn't move from the table until it was time for dinner. And he finished Diary of a Wimpy Kid later that night.
I'm so happy that he loves to read, but it is hard keeping up with him!
Monday, February 24, 2014
We had a really good weekend. Friday night we went bowling with Win's company. We actually got to the event late, because Win got off late, but we stayed until almost 9 bowling with a couple families. We had a lot of fun and the kids loved it. They were so cute -- Bean Dip and Julie were the oldest and they were so good about helping the littler kids. They kept track of whose turn it was, set up the slide and carry the ball to the slide and then cheer on the little ones when they knocked down some pins. It was a team effort and so cute to watch.
Saturday was gorgeous -- sunny and almost 70 degrees. It was glorious and we spent the entire day outdoors. In the morning we went to our neighbor's lacrosse game. Earl is in eight grade, but he usually comes over and plays with the kids when we are all outside. He has been teaching Bean Dip some lacrosse skills, so it was exciting to see him play in a real game.
We came home and spent the afternoon outside. Earl's dad brought over a giant cardboard box, so that was the highlight of the day -- a ready-made fort. Bean Dip and Earl made swords out of cardboard and duct tape and ran around attacking each other while Win worked on his motorcycle.
We actually got to grill -- it's been so long it's a novelty now!-- and then headed over to Kellie and Scott's for a little bonfire. The kids played happily the whole time with Cameron.
Sunday was quieter. Bean Dip woke up vomiting, and I swear, there is nothing that will get me out of bed faster than that sound. But after a 3-hour nap, he felt better, and even asked to go outside. He had a quiet night, and I sent him to school today.
Saturday was a cruel tease of the weather we have all been craving. It's sunny again, but cold, and likely to stay that way for the rest of the week. Boooo.
Saturday was gorgeous -- sunny and almost 70 degrees. It was glorious and we spent the entire day outdoors. In the morning we went to our neighbor's lacrosse game. Earl is in eight grade, but he usually comes over and plays with the kids when we are all outside. He has been teaching Bean Dip some lacrosse skills, so it was exciting to see him play in a real game.
We came home and spent the afternoon outside. Earl's dad brought over a giant cardboard box, so that was the highlight of the day -- a ready-made fort. Bean Dip and Earl made swords out of cardboard and duct tape and ran around attacking each other while Win worked on his motorcycle.
We actually got to grill -- it's been so long it's a novelty now!-- and then headed over to Kellie and Scott's for a little bonfire. The kids played happily the whole time with Cameron.
Sunday was quieter. Bean Dip woke up vomiting, and I swear, there is nothing that will get me out of bed faster than that sound. But after a 3-hour nap, he felt better, and even asked to go outside. He had a quiet night, and I sent him to school today.
Saturday was a cruel tease of the weather we have all been craving. It's sunny again, but cold, and likely to stay that way for the rest of the week. Boooo.
Wednesday, February 19, 2014
Discovery Park of America
This weekend we decided a little getaway was much needed, so we loaded up the kiddos and headed to Western Tennessee to see the newly opened Discovery Park of America. It is a giant science/history/education center for kids and adults, and we loved it. There was so much to see -- dinosaur skeletons, military vehicles, American history, aquariums and turtles, water play and slides. It was about a 2-hour drive from us, so we stayed the night, because part of the fun is staying in a hotel. We went back to the park on Sunday to tour the outside grounds, which were quite impressive with an 1800s settlement, trains and a giant maze. It will definitely be worth it to come back when it is summer and everything is green, and maybe to try out one of the classes or see a special event.
The kids both said their favorite part was the water tables. My favorite part was an exhibit called The Expanding Universe. G and I watched it both days -- it was a trippy video of space, while the history and future of the universe was explained.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone in the area. It could be a day trip, too, if you wanted. There is nothing else to see around it, though, except for farmland and a tire factory. I guess they are hoping it will bring some economic growth to the area.
Here is the website: http://www.discoveryparkofamerica.com/
We stayed in Martin, TN, about 20 minutes away, because I found a hotel with an indoor pool there. It is also the home of Western Tennessee University, so it was a little more happenin'.
The kids both said their favorite part was the water tables. My favorite part was an exhibit called The Expanding Universe. G and I watched it both days -- it was a trippy video of space, while the history and future of the universe was explained.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone in the area. It could be a day trip, too, if you wanted. There is nothing else to see around it, though, except for farmland and a tire factory. I guess they are hoping it will bring some economic growth to the area.
Here is the website: http://www.discoveryparkofamerica.com/
We stayed in Martin, TN, about 20 minutes away, because I found a hotel with an indoor pool there. It is also the home of Western Tennessee University, so it was a little more happenin'.
Monday, February 17, 2014
Valentine's Day
Valentine's Day this year was pretty low-key. We did romantic things like getting our taxes done and eating Burger King for lunch. The best part was watching Star Wars: Episode 1 with the kids for the first time. We have been slowly introducing them to the movies that spawned the stories and characters that they love. We started with the first, original three movies and finally, Netflix sent the first episode.
They loved it. Funny enough, they thought Jar Jar Binks was hilarious. I love little Anakin, he is adorable and reminds me of my brother when he was little. Bean Dip loved the pod race, and Baby G was excited to see R2D2 and C3PO.
They loved it. Funny enough, they thought Jar Jar Binks was hilarious. I love little Anakin, he is adorable and reminds me of my brother when he was little. Bean Dip loved the pod race, and Baby G was excited to see R2D2 and C3PO.
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
Blind Date with a Book
On Sunday afternoon, I met with a few women from the Meetup group. The meetup was called "Blind Date with a Book." One of the women had seen the idea originally from a library (via Pinterest). Basically, the library had a shelf of books wrapped in plain paper, with short phrases explaining the story (like you would sell a blind date to a friend). She thought it would be fun moms-only meetup, and it was.
We all came with our books covered and explained. We had all mostly agreed on bringing beach reads, so I took one of my go-to favorites, The Undomestic Goddess by Sophie Kinsella. We passed them all around and had a good look, and then we chose in order of birthday date. You could also steal one from someone else. When we had all traded books, we unwrapped them together and talked about them.
So it was a lot of fun.We had met at Books A Million, so we got coffee and sat in the cafe talking about everything from books to military balls to carseats. And afterwards, I spent a little time browsing the bookstore all by myself.
We all came with our books covered and explained. We had all mostly agreed on bringing beach reads, so I took one of my go-to favorites, The Undomestic Goddess by Sophie Kinsella. We passed them all around and had a good look, and then we chose in order of birthday date. You could also steal one from someone else. When we had all traded books, we unwrapped them together and talked about them.
So it was a lot of fun.We had met at Books A Million, so we got coffee and sat in the cafe talking about everything from books to military balls to carseats. And afterwards, I spent a little time browsing the bookstore all by myself.
Monday, February 10, 2014
We finally got snow this Saturday. It wasn't much, just about 2 inches, but it was perfect snowball weather. We went outside early, and our neighbors soon joined us. It was also sunny and warm (30 degrees!), so we stayed out all morning. It was a good thing we took advantage of it, because it had all melted by noon. Bean Dip has one snowball saved in the freezer, and we will keep hoping for a little bit more snow this long, cold winter.
Other exciting events this weekend were the Olympic opening ceremonies on Friday night, and going to see The Lego Movie on Saturday afternoon. It was really good, way more intense than I expected for a kids movie, but very funny. We also watched the Beatles tribute on Sunday, and also the men's downhill final, which was almost too intense to watch.
Also, today is Win's (and I guess also mine) 10 year anniversary of being in the Army. That's a big deal!
Other exciting events this weekend were the Olympic opening ceremonies on Friday night, and going to see The Lego Movie on Saturday afternoon. It was really good, way more intense than I expected for a kids movie, but very funny. We also watched the Beatles tribute on Sunday, and also the men's downhill final, which was almost too intense to watch.
Also, today is Win's (and I guess also mine) 10 year anniversary of being in the Army. That's a big deal!
Friday, January 24, 2014
Wednesday, January 22, 2014
I went to hot yoga again last night. This class was a different one, and more intense (75 minutes long!) It was also taught by the owner of the studio, so that was different too. It was good though, after a while you really begin to move through the heat, and it doesn't seem so hot. This class was a lot more diverse as well -- more older women, as well as men.
It was freezing cold all day, and I looked forward to being in that warm room all day. I think I'm hooked!
It was freezing cold all day, and I looked forward to being in that warm room all day. I think I'm hooked!
Friday, January 17, 2014
Hot Yoga
On Wednesday I went to my very first hot yoga class. I went with a friend, to an evening class called Hot Yoga Mediation. It was amazing. I was nervous about the heat, which was 100 degrees, but once you got used to it, it wasn't that bad. And throughout the class, the instructor called for breaks to drink water and towel off, and there was always the option to leave the room for a break.
Since it was a meditation class, we were led through three sets of poses, with meditation breaks. I really liked it -- they were all poses I was familiar with, and the mediation reminded me so much of Deepak Chopra's Mediation Challenges. It was incredibly relaxing and intense at the same time.
I am going to go back. Unfortunately, my friend is moving in a few weeks. But the hard part of doing something for the first time is over, and that is always easier when you have friend with you. And it felt so good to by in that warm, steamy room, what with all this cold, dry weather we have been having. It was a shock coming outside after, though!
Since it was a meditation class, we were led through three sets of poses, with meditation breaks. I really liked it -- they were all poses I was familiar with, and the mediation reminded me so much of Deepak Chopra's Mediation Challenges. It was incredibly relaxing and intense at the same time.
I am going to go back. Unfortunately, my friend is moving in a few weeks. But the hard part of doing something for the first time is over, and that is always easier when you have friend with you. And it felt so good to by in that warm, steamy room, what with all this cold, dry weather we have been having. It was a shock coming outside after, though!
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
The Things They Say ...
Last week, I told Bean Dip it was time to take our Christmas decorations down. He said, "Christmas isn't over yet! I still have jolly in me!"
Baby G noticed a little boy at the pool was covered in temporary tattoos. She went over to him and told him, "I like your tattoos." And then they sat and compared tattoos.
Baby G noticed a little boy at the pool was covered in temporary tattoos. She went over to him and told him, "I like your tattoos." And then they sat and compared tattoos.
Monday, January 13, 2014
Princess Explosion
We hung out with friends this weekend, going over to thier house to watch the playoffs. They have a couple older daughters, and they gifted Baby G with two huge boxes of clothes. And one box was only princess dress up clothes. G is in heaven. She has dresses galore, with shoes to match, and she couldn't be happier. It is Christmas all over again. She has been spending her days dressing up, having wardrobe changes to match the weather or activity, and defending her palace from her ninja big brother. It isn't easy being a princess, apparently.
She was so happy she said, "I want to go back to their house so I can thank them for all my new clothes." I suggested a thank you note, so she asked me to write, "Thank you for my new clothes." She wrote her name and then decorated it with pink pen and stickers. I love that she is so gracious.
She was so happy she said, "I want to go back to their house so I can thank them for all my new clothes." I suggested a thank you note, so she asked me to write, "Thank you for my new clothes." She wrote her name and then decorated it with pink pen and stickers. I love that she is so gracious.
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