Simple Living in the Country

Summer is around the corner

2011-04-10T21:33:00.000-05:00

Had a little taste of summer today the temp reached 80 something, but the wind was out of control. When I opened the windows to air out the house from being closed all winter the doors started slamming.

Put my seeds outside on the deck to absorb the sunshine and I would swear each little sprout grew a couple of inches in just a few hours. I hope the warm weather sticks around so that in a few weeks I will be able to transplant each plant.

I had some important things I had to work on over the weekend and I completed all of them, now it's a waiting game.

TGIF

2011-04-08T07:11:00.000-05:00

I woke with a screaming headache, so happy it's Friday! I have a busy day today but I'll push through it like I always have. Need to complete a few important things this weekend but then I plan to kick back and relax.

Garden update: Lots of little green things popped through the dirt yesterday. Sunday will be a week since I planted the seeds so I will take a picture and post the progress.

Something is Growing

2011-04-07T09:02:00.000-05:00

In just a few days something has started to grow! I'm so amazed, I planted on Sunday and on Wednesday night three little green things popped through the dirt.

Seeds Planted

2011-04-04T18:54:00.001-05:00

Over the weekend Mike and I were out shopping and decided to buy seeds, starter kit and dirt so we could get a jump start on the garden this year. It's hard to even think about summer and gardening because it's been a cold spring. That's going to change real soon though so says me. So, again this spring as we started planting the seeds Mike and I both said we are not going to get crazy with the garden this year like we have in the past..... planting 20 tomato plants, 15 pepper plants and 10 cucumber plants but we'll see we say this every year and get nervous and go crazy thinking we won't have enough veggies.

This is my favorite time of year, watching everything come back to life has always been amazing to me. My tulips that I planted last fall are popping up through the mulch, I check on them just about everyday to see how much they have grown.

I don't blog that often anymore but sometimes I really miss it. I think I'm going to make it my goal to at least blog about my gardens progress. If only my ipad2 would allow me to take pictures and post them. Maybe there is a way but I just don't know??? I'll have to research and find out because it would make blogging about my garden easy.

Update on Be a Santa to a Senior

2011-02-01T14:20:00.000-06:00

Thank you to everyone that participated in our

Be a Santa to a Senior Community Service Program.

Here's a picture of our wrapping party

Our volunteer elf's who wrapped and wrapped 200 plus gifts

Keanen played Santa's helper when we delivered to over 200 plus seniors

in the NW Indiana community

Thanks to everyone who hosted a tree, wreath & drop box

BIG THANKS to: Post Tribune & The Times for all the articles and coverage that help spread the word about this awesome community service program.

Be a Santa to a Senior

2010-10-29T20:44:00.000-05:00

Share the holiday spirit with the Be a Santa to a Senior Community Service Program sponsored by Home Instead Senior Care.

It's a way to brighten the lives of lonely or isolated seniors in your community. This program has touched so many lives... in the past 5 years, 60,000 volunteers delivered more than one million gifts to 660,000 seniors.

How can you help:

Find the nearest Be a Santa to a Senior tree location (listed below)
Pull the ornament (tag) with the name of a senior and gift idea
Purchase the gift
Bring the gift and the ornament (tag) back to one of the drop boxes

Be a Santa to a Senior tree locations:

November Crossroads Chamber Meeting
Spring Mill Health Campus located at 101 W. 87th Ave., Merrillville, Indiana
Town of Merrillville located at 7820 Broadway, Merrillville, Indiana

Be a Santa to a Senior drop off boxes:

Home Instead Senior Care located at 238 E. 90th Drive, Merrillville, Indiana
Spring Mill Health Campus located at 101 W. 87th Ave., Merrillville, Indiana

For more information or questions please call:

Amy Plumb at 219-793-9023

Spring

2010-03-11T07:38:00.000-06:00

The weather is getting warmer and rain is in the forecast that means spring is on it's way. I even noticed that some of my plants and flowers are starting to pop through the mulch and that put a smile on my face.

As I sit and type this post I hear thunder from a far. I look out the window and see dark blue skies rolling in - as the saying goes in like a lion and out like a lamb.

I've had such an itch to be outside and start digging and planting but it's still a little early so I satisfy my urge with walks. Come quickly spring it's been a long cold winter!

ANGEL

2010-02-01T20:31:00.000-06:00

ELBEE'S ANGEL

07/06/1996 - 01/24/2010

She was beautiful

She was so happy

Love to sled with the boys

Loved to give kisses to anyone who would except

Her name described so well

Loved her life mate Pongo

Could roll on command with her hubby, Pongo

Loved to be brushed on warm sunny days

Loved the cool summer nights by the fire

Loved the country life

Her two favorite guys

Loved to swim

even in the hot tub

Always smiled

even after a bee sting made her face swell

Was happy it wasn't her that Keanen dresses up all the time

Loved her Coach collar

she deserved it!

Loved afternoon naps

LOVED TO RIDE IN THE TRUCK

(this was her favorite)

Enjoyed her daily walks no matter what time of year

Was always happy to attend a 4th of July parade

She just loved life and Pongo She had much support when she was sick, thanks Rexie

Her favorite blanket kept her comfortable in the end

You were the sweetest baby girl Angel

you were so loved

we will miss you

Busy, busy

2009-12-13T18:22:00.000-06:00

Still busy with my work, volunteering and home life and not so much time for blogging or face book.

Maybe over the holidays I'll try and post something.

Happy to say from the last time I posted the two walks I did went great!

Recently I won an award for Best Decorated Tree, raising money for the Alzheimer Assoc. And I'm happy to report as part of the team to organize the event we were successful in raising over $4,000.00 for the Alzheimer Assoc. It was our first time ever holding this type event and are already planning next years event in hopes to raise even more money.

Between running from events and soccer it's been a busy year and I'm glad it's coming to an end. I could not have asked for a more fulfilling year for myself.

On the other hand it's been a trying year dealing with Mike's work being so slow and there still is no change in the way that things are done there. The crazy ass people that work there still just don't get it. The doors are ready to close because of the lack of work yet they just show up for work for a check. How about trying to get some work in the door or there is always marketing that could be done, but it's easier to wait for a pay check and surf the web and blogs and work on everything else other than PTA stuff.

Oh me, Oh my it's been forever!

2009-08-26T18:11:00.000-05:00

Yes, it's been forever since I've posted something but I just don't have the time to blog. I'm very busy with work during the day and networking in the evening for work. I now sit on the Board as a Director for the Lupus Foundation (we have a walk coming up on Sept 12th) and I'm also very busy with Alzheimer's Association (again we have a walk coming up Sept 19th) plus trying to keep up with the things at home I'm running about 150 miles per hour if not faster.

I hear from people all the time who say they miss the updates on my blog and I tell them I'll try and get something up soon because I too miss blogging but I never find the time.

I really wanted to get the word out about these two walks and try and raise money for them because they really mean so much to me. Working with families that are affected by Lupus and Alzheimer's makes me really want to fight hard to find a cure for both devastating diseases.

Please join us by either starting your own team or

you can just make a donation to our teams.

Lupus Walk: Sept. 12, 2009

Walk For Lupus Now

For details on these two walks and how to make a team or donation you can email me at amyplumb@gmail.com or for the Lupus Foundation Indiana Chapter, donations can be made to the Simko Striders walking in memory of Richard Simko. For the Alzheimer's walk the donations can be made to the Home Instead Senior Care team Capt. Amy Plumb (Merrillville, Indiana)

Alzheimer's Walk: Sept. 19, 2009, Memory Walk

We're On The Move To End Alzheimer

Darn Groundhog

2009-02-04T08:49:00.000-06:00

Before the groundhog saw his shadowAfter the groundhog saw his shadow
Crazy but true we plow the yard so Mike can walk the dogs

Yesterday it started snowing and it's still snowing as I take these pictures

Makes for beautiful pictures but we really don't need more snow
school was let out early and cancelled today

County tries to keep our county road clean but we are not top priority
so over the weekend they were working trying to clean it up

Thanks county I know your trying!

The rest of these pictures are from the weekend

Rexie was having a blast running the trails like it was a race track

Rexie walking with Pongo in the top picture

Rexie walking with Angel in the top picture

All three dogs pose for a picture in the snow

I don't know why but the dogs love to eat the snow

and they never eat yellow snow don't worry

Happy 40th Birthday Honey!

2009-01-27T07:30:00.000-06:00

Just because you turned the

BIG 40 Today

doesn't mean you'll grow up

or stop having fun

or stop working so hard
won't find another project to work on

because that's just what you do

doesn't mean you'll stop being cool either

it just mean you'll be a little older and cooler

Happy 40th Birthday!

Friday Foto - Sunrise

2009-01-23T11:16:00.000-06:00

As I was cooking breakfast this morning for Keanen I looked out and saw this amazing sunrise. The color was so bold and you can see the sun is trying to burst through in the middle.

Small dog, Small brain

2009-01-21T13:01:00.000-06:00

He's cute, there is no question about that but that is all. Rexie is just cute, poor thing has such a little brain and he can't help it. And I can't help but love him. That look says it all, I know I'm so bad but please keep me.

The other day I was cleaning the master bath and Rexie was running around in the master bedroom playing with what I thought were his toys. I was so wrong, it was a roll of toilet tissue he had stolen for the bathroom and decided to eat and play with while I was busy scrubbing the bathroom. Once I took that away he was again looking for something else to play with but found the shower had some yummy cleaner to lick instead. Little dog, little brain still living.

History in the making

2009-01-20T08:45:00.000-06:00

History in the making today as our new President is sworn into office. Exciting but at the same time I'll be glad when it's over.

We live so close to Chicago that we not only get the National News coverage of President Obama's every move but also the Chicago News as well. It's just too much sometimes the crazy things they cover just to talk about the man and his family. And the people they interview on t.v. are a hoot. The things they say about President Obama, who they don't know but he has changed their life because he is president.

I wish President Obama the best but I don't want to know his every move - when he sleep, eats, and goes to the bathroom or what dog they decide to get. All I want to know is the important stuff such as what's your plan of action for our troops? Let's stick to the important things that matter.

Freezing Cold w/ Wind Chill -40

2009-01-16T13:23:00.000-06:00

It has been nothing but cold here, just bitter, bitter freezing cold. Even inside with the heat on it's still cold! They (the weather men and women) say we are having one of the coldest winters in years. I will agree with them completely. Today with the wind chill factor it was -40 below. Just saying that chills me to the bone.

The kids have been out of school for 2½ days now because of the weather. Snow has also been an issue, the other night Mike said coming home from work it was a white out most of the way home.

The picture is perfect it's what it feels and looks like here.

We have been blessed these passed few years with mild winters and now we seem to be getting paid back for it.

The freezing temps are not suppose to lift until sometime this weekend. Believe me it can't come soon enough.

Deep Freeze

2009-01-15T13:14:00.000-06:00

We may live in the country but we are still considered part of that Chicagoland area that is in the middle of a DEEP FREEZE!

At the beginning of the week we were under a BLIZZARD storm watch. And it did snow and to tell you the truth it seem like it was never going to stop snowing. Mike would plow the driveway, shovel the porches and then start all over again. We have so much snow, I haven't seen this much snow in years! Now we are under a DEEP FREEZE warning with temperatures below 0 then factor in the wind chill and your talking -20 this morning in some places.

Of course they called the kids off school today. I think I have the only kid who was upset he couldn't go. I did check to see if he had a fever this morning don't worry.

Well maybe this polar bear is upset too the kids didn't go, ya think?

This weather is suppose to be like this for the next few days, UGH!!!!

Someone get this guy some medical attention for his tongue, and fast!

Over the weekend before it got too cold Keanen had two of his good friends stay the night. Friday night they went and played basketball with the youth pastors from the church and then Saturday played games all day and Sunday they went ATV riding in the snowy farm fields. Which turned out to be educational, they found the remains (skeleton) of a deer while riding. Pretty cool I think. I asked Keanen if he wanted to go back and gather it for Biology class, he said no.

Mike and I had a date night Friday evening and took our other son his t.v. before he left to go back to college. Saturday and Sunday were big football days at our house and then Sunday night was Season Premier of 24, Mike's favorite show. All in all it was a good weekend.

I found these cool things I could get for Mike, you know his birthday is just around the corner. I mean who wouldn't want an action figure of Jack or how about the Chloe mouse pad for their desk???

Awesome Buy of 2009

2009-01-03T18:25:00.000-06:00

We took Keanen to the Outlet Mall to spend some Christmas money that was burning a hole in his pocket. Being a teen he wanted to spend most of his money on clothes, shoes and maybe a game for X-Box.

He found some good buys on a few shirts, couple pairs of jeans and new designer sweat jacket, you know to look good when he sweats. Teenagers! Then he wanted to look at shoes. What you don't know is Kean has a lot of shoes. Maybe not shoes he can wear everyday but he has a lot of shoes. Why? Well, it's because of sports and believe me they are not cheap at his age. So when he wants shoes and doesn't really need shoes he knows that comes out of his money. And being at the outlet it was a good place to be looking. He ended up not finding a pair he liked, it's o.k. though it saved him money he really didn't need to spend. Keep reading what I found though....................

If you guessed shoes you are so right. But here is the kicker, the shoes I found were for yes the one and only - Keanen! O.k. call me crazy but here's what happened. I found a pair of NIKE Track shoes for - you should sit because this will blow you away - $16.99. They are the kind that when you pick them up they are as light as feathers and they have the little spikes on the bottom. Perfect for this Spring when he runs High School Track his Freshmen year.

You can't beat the Outlet Mall clearance racks. Now if I could only find all of his sport shoes for that price I'd be the luckiest mother in the world, instead of the poorest mother in the world.

2009

2009-01-01T13:21:00.000-06:00

Wishing Everyone Happy New Year!

Diamonds are a girls best friend but......

2008-12-28T12:15:00.000-06:00

Mike surprised me with a five stone diamond band for Christmas.

He broke our promise about no gifts this year for each other

but it was easy to forgive him.

Although I will admit I love diamonds the best gift this year was that all four of us were able to be together and celebrate Christmas.

Keanen, Mike and Rexie Christmas Eve

Christmas morning Keanen showing off his new AC Milan soccer jacket

Michael and Keanen just being silly

With faces like this I can't help but love them even if they are up to something!

One more smile, I promise it's the last picture

We did a lot of eating over the Christmas celebration Even Rexie had a good Christmas, here he is playing with his new toy

Rexie in his new Christmas sweatshirt

Rexie playing in the wrapping paper Christmas morning

I couldn't ask for a better Christmas.

I had both the boys here and all my family together, it doesn't get any better.

Christmas in our home

2008-12-23T10:10:00.000-06:00

Please come in

When you enter my home you are reminded that

the magic of Christmas lies in your heart

Santa in his rustic truck trying to deliver snowballs to
children who have never seen snow before
Our Christmas Tree

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care in hopes that......

Rexie ready for Christmas in his new outfit

A tradition we have done since Keanen was little

Count down to Christmas

Santa is always watching

Christmas family blanket with all our names on it

There's just a little peek into our home at Christmas.

I hope you all have a Wonderful and Merry Christmas.

They are the Champs!

2008-12-22T08:27:00.000-06:00

Keanen and his team ended their indoor

Soccer Session 1 this past weekend in 1st Place.

7 Wins 1 LossKeanen is the one in dark green Keanen is number 3

Major action shot

This was fun, fast paced, very exciting and a great learning experience.

I hope he gets to do it again.

Way to go Keanen, great job again!

Just before the winter storm

2008-12-21T20:58:00.001-06:00

Just about two weeks ago the sun was shinning and weather was showing no signs that winter was near. When I looked out the living room windows I saw the farmer that lives in behind of us and across the field. He was out in December plowing the field that was still up and full of corn.

This all takes place right in my back yard.

The red machine is picking the corn and dumping it into the green machine.

It's really amazing to see in person.
Because these machines are so much bigger than us.
He turns around for another round.

The green machine takes what he has to the street to dumb into a truck

that will drive it back to the farm and store for feed for the animals.

What's been up

2008-12-19T11:47:00.000-06:00

A lot has gone on since I posted last. I quite my job, it was time for a change.

So the things I love to talk about.

Keanen had an indoor soccer game last Friday and 90% of the team didn't show. I'm the team manager and we also have a team coach who I'm so very thankful for because I don't know how to coach high school soccer. Kicker, he had two games that night at the same time so I was left to coach our team without him. Of course Mike helped me and we gathered some players from other teams and a few of our players finally showed up late but they showed. First loss of the session.

Over the weekend Keanen had his best friend from youth group come over and he stayed the entire weekend. Keanen had a blast having a friend over all weekend.

They played a lot of basketball outside in the cold.

Sunday we had a family birthday party to attend. After that we finished the night off with watching football till it was time for bed.

Monday Mike took the day off and we took all three of the dogs to the Vet for yearly shots. The big dogs love the Vet and they do well there but you might remember Rexie's last visit (in Feb)when I blogged about it how his face swelled up like a balloon. Because Rexie's allergic to his yearly shots they have to give him more shot so he doesn't have an allergic reaction. This time the other shots to stop this swelling balloon like reaction caused him to act crazy, paranoid and freaked out like a dog on drugs. It took about 48 hours for him to return to normal. All he wanted was for me to hold him and every little noise caused him to go into a barking freaking out running under the furniture shaking ordeal. That was Monday and the next 48 hours.

Mike was out of town for work this week again, but being at home made it so much easier this time. I wasn't pressed for time in the morning to walk and feed the dogs plus get myself and Keanen ready for school.

Other than that not much is going on around here besides getting ready for Christmas.

Winter in the Country

2008-12-09T10:30:00.000-06:00

Winter in the Country

My favorite barn was painted over the summer. I liked the barn just the way it was, I love that old look but the farmer felt differently as you can see.

The farmer told us some history about the barn and surrounding area where we live. We found out that there was a Saw Mill located where the cows now live and roam. And that the Saw Mill was the supplier of the wood for all the barns in the area. Most of the barns were built around the 1930's.

Waiting for Santa

2008-12-09T07:50:00.000-06:00

This year we have three decorated Christmas trees up so Santa has plenty of room to leave gifts because we seem to have a slight problem. Look really close under the tree that's not the skirt it's Pongo laying on the skirt under the tree.

Rexie has never laid on the skirt but he has tried to eat the sparkles off the skirt. He is so bad that way! Here he looks so cute all curled up sleeping waiting for Santa to bring him a new toy.

Weekend Wrap Up

2008-12-08T07:38:00.000-06:00

Friday we had Keanen's indoor soccer game. Turns out this has been their highest scoring game so far putting up 15pts. and this is the first time Keanen ever was carded during a game. I still don't agree with the call that got him the card. I think they all just got tangled up going after the ball, heck they all ended up on the floor! This indoor soccer is really fun but pretty wild, Keanen had bumps and bruises again after this game from being slammed against the boards. What's the saying "No pain, no gain" They remain undefeated!

Saturday was Movie Marathon in our house we watched all the Ocean's movies, then watched two more movies called Linewatch and The Happening. Very relaxing Saturday you could say.

Sunday the cleaning and laundry had to be done. Keanen helped his Papa again lay wood floors in his house. And always football was watched.

All in all it was a relaxing weekend.

Favorite Christmas Music

2008-12-05T07:54:00.000-06:00

My favorite Christmas song and CD

Amy Grant, A Christmas to Remember

I will listen to this 100 times over during the Christmas season.

What is your favorite Christmas song or CD?

Please share with me I would know or should I say listen.

Toxic Gas

2008-12-04T08:06:00.000-06:00

If you haven't figured it out by now I'm going to tell. I'm the only female in a house with all males and three dogs. You can only imagine what it's like living with males and dogs, lots and lots of gas! Yes, even dogs have gas.

Yesterday Mike left for business out of town so you would think there would've been some relief coming my way with one less male in the home. Right? Wrong, So Wrong! I just don't get it, I really don't. What is wrong with my dogs and having such bad gas and I mean LOUD bad gas????

They only eat dog food, no people food.

This went on all night long. It was so loud when it happened the dog that did it and the other two dogs looked around wondering what that noise was. I'm thinking to myself they don't smell that? Do they not realize one of them just let off the biggest stink bomb? Really! I'm dying here.

I love my wonderful dogs but the gas has got to go.

Business out of town

2008-12-03T12:11:00.000-06:00

Mike is out of town on business for a couple days. Rush job that came into the office so off he went leaving me to attend to early, early morning and late night walks with the dogs in the freezing cold. I don't mind out of town trips in the warm months but these cold months it just sucks!

The positive side to his out of town trips -

I get some special time together with Keanen (we always order Chinese food, yummy)

I get the big bed all to myself kinda (Rexie can be a bed hog)

I get to control the t.v. remote

I get to drive myself to work and turn up the radio as loud as I want

If I can remind myself of these things when I'm out walking the dogs in the freezing cold maybe it won't be so bad. NOT!

Thanksgiving was an A+

2008-12-02T14:43:00.000-06:00

My first Thanksgiving dinner turned out great, so great I was voted to cook every year. And to be honest I'm o.k. with that because I really enjoyed it. I love cooking when I have the time and I'm not tried from working all day.

I love having people over and I enjoy being at home so hosting is just fine with me for next year and the year after that.

The only part I didn't like was the swollen feet and legs that night. 12 hours of standing on ceramic tile is rough but a little wine and some time in the hot tub helped me forget it all.

Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving.

UGH!

2008-12-02T13:44:00.000-06:00

Back to work and school UGH! Sunday night Keanen said, Mama I wish we had a four day weekend every week. The nice thing for Keanen was Monday morning he had a two hour snow delay. What a nice way to get back into the routine of things.

Over the four day weekend we were able to accomplish most of our Christmas shopping. I was able to decorate three of the Christmas trees we put up this year. I wanted to put up four but Mike said I think three is enough. I love the Christmas trees, I have tons of decorations. I also decorated entire house. I'll have to take pictures and share.

I love this time of year for many reasons, one is because of all the decorating that goes on. I love having a new look in the house after months of the same old, same old.

If you want to know how my Holiday went read here - Thanksgiving was an A+ @ Simple Living in the Country

Almost Thanksgiving

2008-11-26T12:41:00.000-06:00

Are you ready for Thanksgiving? Are you hosting or going somewhere to visit and eat? I'm ready, I've been ready all week to start cooking. I'm like a kid at Christmas waiting to open gifts.

I love to gather with my family and laugh about crazy silly stuff that no else thinks is funny.

This is one of the best Thanksgiving pictures I found this year and just had to share.

My Thanksgiving advice to you is eat and eat some more. No one likes left overs there is never enough room in the refrigerator. And you only live once, so enjoy!

Thanksgiving around a ping-pong table

2008-11-24T15:11:00.000-06:00

No matter how old I (or my kid) gets I still love to watch this every year. It wouldn't be Thanksgiving if we didn't watch Snoopy and the rest of the Peanut gang.

Weekend Wrap Up

2008-11-23T21:39:00.000-06:00

Friday night was our normal routine, Keanen's indoor soccer game. His team is now 4-0 which is really exciting. There is only 4 more games left so I hope their winning streak stay with them.

When we got home Keanen went to the school pep rally and dance for the start of the basketball season.

Saturday I was up before the sun, not sure why I was so restless. I got up feed all the dogs walked them just for a minute because it was cold. Did a little cleaning then decided I would cook an egg and sausage casserole for breakfast.

After breakfast we went to visit my mom and dad for a while to talk about the big Turkey Day coming up. I'm so excited I wish it was today, I can't stop thinking of about it.

Then we went grocery shopping for some of the food which makes my mouth water even more. And of course I've been watching every food program that I can about what is the best way to prepare the side dishes. I haven't drooled this much since I was a baby.

Mike and I had a date Saturday night, we saw a movie and went to dinner. When we got home I had big plans to relax in the hot tub for the evening but instead I sat down on the couch and my eyes closed and that was it for me. I won't even dare tell you what time that was because it was so early, but it was so early when I got up that morning.

Sunday I did more cleaning and laundry (Mike helped me), watched more cooking shows. Mike watched football. Keanen help his Papa due some work around his house. Sunday night we watched the long awaited 24 two hour movie that aired.

I think that wraps up our weekend.

A few things about Thanksgiving

2008-11-21T12:32:00.000-06:00

Here's a few things about Thanksgiving I'd like to share with you.

This year I'll be hosting Thanksgiving. That means it's my first Thanksgiving Dinner I'll be cooking. I'm excited to take on this challenge. I cooked last year at Christmas and everything turned out great for my first big dinner.

Thanksgiving is my favorite holidays because it all about giving thanks. There is no pressure to buy and exchange gifts. Instead you can gather with your loved ones and just be thankful. I wish every holiday was like that.

Now you know we are dog lovers and they are just a little spoiled, just a little. And you have heard me talk about how the dogs get into the garden and eat the veggies, the neighbors pumpkins and they eat the corn out of the farm field behind us. Well, come to find out that's not so bad.

There are safe foods that you can share with your pets at the holiday.

Turkey - Yes turkey, if you take off the skin and fat it's fine for your pet.

Pumpkin - Pureed pumpkin but don't add sugar, if you'd like to add a little cinnamon that won't hurt. This is a good source of fiber and Vitamin A.

Sweet Potatoes and Yams - Healthy and yummy for your pet unless your pet has health issues because they are naturally sugary. So if your pet has diabetes and cancer avoid giving them these two items.

Cranberries - Fresh cranberries cooked are great for your pets' urinary tract but hold the sugar if you want to sweeten try Stevia instead.

Thanksgiving Dinner

2008-11-20T16:35:00.000-06:00

This year I'll be cooking my first Thanksgiving dinner. I'm so excited to be taking on this huge job for our family gathering. I have very little experience at this but feel I can handle the challenge.

Last year year at Christmas I took on the pleasure of hosting the Christmas gathering at my house so I got my feet wet with cooking an entire turkey dinner. And I have to say everything went really well for it being my first time cooking a large meal like that.

What helped me out last year at Christmas was I had just been to see my sister in another state and helped her with Thanksgiving dinner. You would think though after growing up watching my mother cook all those years I would have learned something, nope! Not a darn thing, I was just there driving her nuts probably. Asking a million times like my own child does - when is it going to be done over and over. Oh, sure I watched her cooked but with drooling hanging out of my mouth and the brain not thinking right because I had been fasting for days prior to so I could eat like a pig come dinner time. Now do you see why I never learned a darn thing a as kid watching my mother, plus my mind set was I'll never have to do that, that's what mom's are for. Guess what my label is today - Mom. How it happened I don't know I plead the fifth if I may.

I will joyfully take on this dinner and pray it all comes out just fine as did Christmas dinner did last year besides the almost dropped the turkey on myself but I saved it. Just the blazing hot juice from the turkey was the only thing lost down my two legs but I was still in good condition to eat with 1st degree burns on my legs.

Stay turn for some homemade recipes for your Thanksgiving dinners.

Before & After

2008-11-19T15:20:00.000-06:00

As the Holidays roll around it's a reminder of the blood, sweat and many, many tears we went through finding our house. We are slowly approaching our two year anniversary.

We knew what we wanted, finding it and getting it was another story. Every time we found a piece of land or the land and house it didn't work in our favor for what ever reason. Things became so bad that the realtor thought we had a jinx on us. Other realtors made jokes, wanting to use us to look and be interested in some of their properties that wouldn't sale. They thought once we looked and pretended to be interested they would sale (you know because we were jinxed).

It then came to the point when I would call to set up the appointment to just go look they would call me back right before the appointment time saying don't come the owners have accepted an offer. O.k., we can't even get to the looking stage and the rug is being pulled out from underneath us. I thought I can't handle this anymore, maybe we can look again in 6 months, I just need a break from the emotional ride we are on.

A week or so later an email came in about a house I'd looked at on line a while back. It was everything we were looking for it was perfect but at the time I brushed it to the side because the price was way to high. There was plenty of land, it was a custom built home with a lot of special items we would've wanted our home to have but cost would've played a role if we were building and could afford it.

In the email the realtor made sure she told me about the price reduction because they were moving and the house had not sold yet. She also pointed out I don't think we should waste time call me ASAP. I thought for a few minutes because I didn't want to get back on this ride again. That little voice in side me said this is a new home custom built, reduced in price, you loved it once when you looked at it on line here's your chance to finally see it, go for it! So I did. I made that call and we saw the house that night. The realtor knew we would love it and had the paper work ready that night.

I go home and that night and I had a dream. I dreamed about my gram (who is passed on) she comes to me at a pool side giving me a gift of warm fuzzy socks. (I always have cold feet) I'm so excited to have the socks and see her because not only does she give me these socks but she gives me this overwhelming sense of peace like everything is finally going to o.k. In the morning when I wake I'm crying, but it's a good cry. A cry of relief and that's when I knew we would get this house.

Because it's what they call a ReLo it took some time but we finally got the word one day CONGRATS ON YOUR NEW HOME! I think it was around Christmas but then all the paper work that goes with a ReLo it was still not till Feb. that we were moved in.

When we moved in all the walls were, I guess you could call them a tan and the custom molding is white. Very beautiful I thought but after a while I felt like I needed color and bold color so we painted. Here are some before and after pictures. Once we got done I thought why didn't I paint sooner what a difference this makes. I'll post more pictures of other area's in the next few days.

Looking at the front door entryway (before)

Standing at the front door in the entryway (after)

Looking down the long hall way (before)

Standing in the long hall way (after)

This is what I love to work on at home decorating,

I work slow changing it a million times but I finally will get it how

I want it driving everyone crazy in process.

Snow and Cold

2008-11-19T10:11:00.001-06:00

We had our first big snow fall this year waking up to 10" of snow Tuesday morning.

Blurry picture below, not sure who was shaking from the cold Rexie or myself.

I didn't put his coat on but he ventured out on to the porch anyway to check out the snow.

The snow is always pretty but it's the cold that's hard to deal with.

Being out in the country it's very open and the wind can be very strong because there is nothing to block it like in the cities or suburbs. The temperature out here is always lower due to the wind chill factor even in the summer.

In the top picture you will notice the corn field has never been harvested this year. The corn is feed corn for animals, not corn that is sold to farm stands for human consumption. Not sure what the farmers plans are. I know we won't be ATVing in the field this winter if the farmer doesn't harvest. Darn it's fun in the fields when it snows.

First Big Snow Fall

2008-11-18T07:52:00.000-06:00

Mike is in the shower before me, I know he's not leaving for a job site out of town? I wonder what time it is? What is he doing up before me? After he gets out and is turning on the t.v. to see the news he's telling me we got a lot of snow last night. What, SNOW! Snow, that's what he is doing up early, he has to shovel and plow the snow this morning. (he loves this stuff)

Mike then tells me things will be moving slow out there this morning so we need to get a move on it. First thing that goes through my mind is Keanen and school. Is there a delay or call off for school? Of course after listening to the radio there is a delay, ugh! As a working parent these are things you hate hearing.

Morning routine continues as normal but when I look outside I realize I have to get a picture of this. It was unbelievable we were buried in the prettiest, whitest and fluffiest snow, grab the camera turn it on and the message was - no card present. I looked all over for a card couldn't find one so no picture for the blog.

Looks like winter is on it's way!

Weekend Wrap Up

2008-11-17T12:38:00.000-06:00

Burr cold

Snow flurries

Relaxing hot tub

This weekend there were a couple of times I looked outside and there were big snow flakes falling. Just beautiful! Most of you know I'm not a fan of cold weather but the snow flurries or flakes were pretty. Last night they were falling again so I decided to get in the hot tub. This would be a perfect way to relax before bed and watch the snow fall all at the same time. I didn't turn on the music or lights to the hot tub, it was just so peaceful the way it was.

It's times like these I appreciate the cold and snow, other wise I dream of living in a warm state.

Funny Friday Foto's

2008-11-14T15:13:00.000-06:00

Mike took these from one of the farms we work with.

These guys/gals are so cute I can only imagine what they were thinking.

Hey, look someone came to visit us, let's go say HI!

Blondie speaking: I'm going to beat you all to the fence you slow pokes.

Brownie speaking: I could have beat her but you know someone tripped me up back there and well you know how that is you lose your footing and just can't seem to find your groove anymore but hey next time you come by I'll be first I'll show you for sure I mean I'm fast...fast as the jack rabbit you can hardly see me when I run I'm so fast I mean everyone moves when I run............

still talking.........................................................................

Blondie speaking: What you can't go, you can't leave me here.

I won the race for you lover boy!

Wizard of Oz Moment Failed

2008-11-12T13:45:00.000-06:00

I closed my eyes and clicked my heels three times and repeated those special words that Dorthy always did in the movie.

Slowly I open my eyes and I see I'm still here. I relaxed and tried again and again still nothing. Darn it, it only works in the movies. Here's the place I was on my way to

I would love to go back to the cabin in the mountains and make it my permanent residence. It was so beautiful and peaceful when we were there.

Nature is music to my ears.

Veterans' Day

2008-11-11T07:50:00.000-06:00

Remember to Honor those who have served for our freedom.

A special thanks to my Grandpa who is no longer with us, to my Father and Husband for all serving our country.

Weekend Wrap Up

2008-11-10T07:51:00.000-06:00

Friday night was another indoor soccer game for Keanen that ended in a win. The other team was a dirty playing team, very physical with our players. They were yellow, red and blue carded through out the entire game. Keanen had been slammed against the wall a couple times so Saturday he spent the day icing down.

Not the best picture I know but it's not the best place for picture taken. Plus they are moving just a bit fast for the camera.

I had a baby shower I went to with my mom and sister it was nice to spend time with them and see the mommy to be.

If you have a weak stomach stop reading now.

The rest of my weekend was pretty crappy and I mean that when I say that. Earlier in the week I had a 24 hour flu but went to work anyway, just had that gut feeling there would be a call off and there was. I made it through the day and then all week my stomach hurt but I thought I was o.k. till the weekend I wonder now. Rexie was acting out of sorts and I found him throwing up in the sun room and Pongo helping to clean it up. Dogs are so gross! I put Rexie in his playpen and picked up the rug he messed up. When I come back and picked up Rexie he's drooling from the mouth really bad. I head for the patio door to take him outside but he just starts throwing up like crazy all over my white carpet and doesn't stop throwing up for sometime. We finally head back in the house I clean everything up and Rexie is drooling and shaking like a madman. So I decide to get a blanket and sit with him on my lap and all I can smell is horrible gas, back outside and the poor dog does his runny business forever and ever (if you know what I mean). This goes on for a few hours with Rexie. Here's the kicker Pongo gets the same thing but he is 20 times bigger than Rexie so you can only imagine the smell and what he produced. And that is not all after Pongo, Angel started with the same thing! By the end of the night I was back in the bathroom with flu symptoms too. I have no idea what was going around our house last week and over the weekend but only myself and the dogs had it.

After Rexie felt a little better Mike made him a new Bears shirt.

Sorry about the gross stories about the dogs but this was my gross dog throw up and poopy weekend.

Hope you all had a great weekend!

Friday Flash Back

2008-11-07T10:57:00.000-06:00

I was going through old pictures and found the pictures of Rexie the night we brought him home from the airport. Airport! Yes airport, Rexie came all the way from Georgia to live with us about 1 year ago. He was only 2 pounds when he arrived. Is he not the cutest puppy you've ever seen? I know he's mine so it's that mommy thing, I think he's the cutest!

The night we came home with him it was so cold and windy, your typical Chicago weather this time of year. Georgia to Chicago the poor puppy was in for a terrible shock. As you can see the look on his face he's a little scared. I took a t-shirt and winter coat for him to put on but as soon as I stepped out of the airport doors the wind and coldness was so unbearable I quickly snuggled him in a blanket as we ran for the car. When I put him down at the car to potty before getting in for the ride home he wanted back in the blanket so fast. Hey, he was from the south and Chicago weather was not his friend.

Rexie trying to stand tall but he's small no matter which way he turns.
Rexie all bundled up in his Bears outfit that's way to small now. He climbed on his mentor Pongo to nap. Rexie had hope to get this big one day but it didn't happen. Pongo who we also call "Big" taught Rexie everything he knows.

As Rexie got bigger and ventured through the house it became entertaining to see him discover things like a mirror. He thought the imagine of himself was another puppy and kept barking at it then he would try to look behind the mirror but found there was no puppy. Confused he would back up barking then he would run in a circle as fast as he could. After a few minutes he headed back to the mirror and looked at it with a face asking where are you puppy??? And he would go through the motion all over again and again. It was so cute to sit and watch this over and over.

Here's Rexie now wearing his scarf I made him for the 4th of July. He's all grown up now but still little. Although I think at times he thinks he' s as big as "Big".

Coming Down

2008-11-07T09:28:00.000-06:00

It's that time of year when the corn fields start coming down around us. It's funny when they plant them we are sad in some ways because we can no longer ride the ATV's.

Now when they start to plow them down it's sad to see them go because it leaves you with an empty feeling as if someone has striped you naked. Everything becomes so open for miles and miles like anyone can see in your house.

Our dogs love the corn fields they eat the corn right off the stalk. It's the craziest thing I've ever seen, they pull back the husk and hold the cob and eat.

This year as the fields have been coming down there was a terrible accident at one of the farms just down the street from us. A young farmer 25 years old was killed by his own farm equipment when he was crushed underneath. Please pray for this family in this difficult time.

My Favorite Season

2008-11-06T08:21:00.000-06:00

I love this time of year, the change in the leaves and weather just make it so beautiful. The picture above is our dog Angel.

Keanen came in the house a couple weekends ago from outside and this is our conversation:

Keanen: Mama do you smell that

Me: Smell what Babe

Keanen: Outside

Me: What outside

Keanen: The change, it's coming

Me: Oh, you mean fall. Yes I smell it when I'm out there

Keanen: I love that smell and this time of year Mama

Me: Me too Babe

Later that day Keanen and I drive some place in the car and talk again.

Keanen: Mama look at the colors changing in the trees, fall is my favorite time of year and I like winter too

Me: Really fall and winter, I thought summer was one of your favorite times of year because being half fish you love to swim (laughing)

Keanen: I like summer and swimming but it's just too hot, fall and winter are cooler, I can always swim indoor.

Me: Oh, so when I move south to a warm state you're not coming with me, I'll miss you (laughing again)

It's moments like these I love with my son.

History made

2008-11-05T12:21:00.000-06:00

When I think about this election I can’t help but think how amazing it is to see American History being made. No matter what the results would have been American History was being made.

I’ve always been one of those people who use to say to my grandparents before they passed on tell all about life when you were little. Tell me what it’s been like to see so much change in your lifetime. And I wasn’t just talking the material things such as cars, TV, washing machines things like that but the social changes they saw. And so they would tell me stories but I think to them it was just life, that’s how things were.

I find it interesting to be here and witness this part of history.

Bloggy Awards

2008-11-04T10:19:00.000-06:00

I'm a little behind on blogging, or maybe I should say way behind on blogging. Courtney from Quite Chaos gave me these awards some time ago and I'm just now posting them. Courtney and I became best blog friends the first time we started to visiting each others blogs. We just understand each other and found out we are so much a like it's scary. We email each other all the time and know some day we are going to meet in person.

Thank you Courtney for these wonderful awards I feel very blessed to receive them from you.

Weekend Wrap Up

2008-11-02T22:29:00.000-06:00

Friday Night I dressed Rexie in his costume when I came home from work, he was a cow for Halloween. With no small kids to dress up any more this was my only Halloween excitement. And we get no kids coming to our house for candy being in the country so we had fun with the dogs till it was time to leave for Keanen's soccer game.

Keanen had his first indoor soccer game Friday night and it all came together. And the best part was that they won! It was a lot of fun to watch them play and a lot more fast pace moving of a game than when they play outdoor.

Saturday was a day to run and get things done that needed to be done. Keanen went to help his Papa do some work.

Sunday I helped my mom with some things and then Keanen had soccer try-outs for a spring team he wants to play for. They have two more days of try-outs that he needs to attend before they decide who makes it.

It was beautiful weather for the end of October beginning of November, this weather could just stay for the rest of the year and that would be just fine with me.

Happy Halloween

2008-10-31T07:49:00.000-05:00

Happy Halloween

from Mike, Amy & Keanen

Major Letter in Soccer

2008-10-30T07:39:00.000-05:00

Last night was the Fall Sports Ceremonies for the Cherokees. Keanen received a Major Letter in Soccer for playing Varsity Soccer. I'm so proud of him.

I took a picture as he received his Major Letter but it came out dark. Maybe I'll post a picture when the Letter is on the jacket.

Gardening season over

2008-10-29T12:52:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago I dug up the plants in the garden because they had pretty much stop producing veggies. Next year we plan to move the garden to another area and make it larger.

After I was done Mike prepared the soil for planting grass seed to see if we could at least get it started this fall. Although fall seems to have come and gone quickly I don't know how much the seeds will take.

I enjoyed my first organic garden this past summer and can't wait till next summer to start my next one. Over the winter I want to get some books on organic gardening to be better prepared for next spring.

Wacky Wednesday

2008-10-29T07:48:00.000-05:00

Pongo the Pirate & Angel the Angel

Happy Halloween!

SNOW, Yes I said SNOW!

2008-10-28T07:40:00.000-05:00

Last night, Oct. 27 was our first snow fall of the year. Mike called me to look out the patio doors and to my disbelieving eyes the deck and hot tub cover were covered with tons of little white snow flakes.

Snow is pretty, but I hate the cold. I wear a sweater in the summer because I'm always so cold. I use our heated seats in the car all year round. I can tell this is going to be a long and cold one. 33 degrees this morning and even little Rexie our dog didn't want to go out.

The grass was iced over this morning as Mike walked the dogs. I guess I need to buy boots for Rexie he hates the wet and cold grass. Like I said it's going to be a long, long winter at my house.

Soccer has taken over my life

2008-10-27T21:08:00.000-05:00

I've been MIA from the world of blogging but not from the world of SOCCER. In fact I've been held hostage and made Manager of the In-door Soccer team Keanen is now playing for.

Just when I thought soccer was coming to an end it suddenly became even more complex. I've been trying to put a team together since the school team ended and it's not been easy. The Lord has been very good to me though and pushed back the start week till this Friday.

And just when we all thought I was done blogging about soccer, NOT! Here we go again with games for 8 more weeks. Then Keanen wants to play in the other two sessions 8 weeks each, 8 X 3 = 24 more weeks of soccer. I need a blog name change.

I think I've been every sport mom there is. The last sport mom I ever thought I'd be was a soccer mom and here I am headed to be the biggest soccer mom there is. That's scary! And my last hair cut was kinda a soccer mom cut. Next I'll be wearing those damn mom jeans.

Soccer Madness

2008-10-16T09:38:00.000-05:00

Last Wednesday was the last game of the regular soccer season for the Cherokees. It was a good game for the Cherokees even though it was a loss by one goal. Any game lost this season was not with out a good fight from the Cherokees. I want to confirm it but I believe the Cherokees ended up in 2 or maybe 3 place for the season. Not bad, this is only their second year having a soccer program at the school.

After the game the parents had each prepared a dish for a celebration dinner for the players and the family members. It’s been an awesome season with Keanen and soccer. This is a sport he had never played and never had any interest in playing but it turns out he loves it and the sport loves him. It made my heart smile each time the coach (or the other parents) told me how well Keanen was doing. The coach told me how he can teach Keanen soccer fundamentals but he can’t teach what Keanen already had natural skills and speed some thing you need in soccer. Keanen was a freshman this year and was blessed to have been a starter on JV. And then blessed again to be a player on the Varsity. On Varsity he started out the season just playing the second half of the game, by the end of the season he was playing both the first and second halves of the Varsity games. Keanen also started out as a defender by the end of the season coach started putting him in as an offensive player too. Coach walked by me during Sectional and said I may need to use him on offense today. I’m proud of what all he achieved this year while playing and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for him.

The Cherokees jumped right into Sectionals Thursday night playing against H.H.S., a team the Cherokees had faced in the regular season and beat. In Sectionals is when it really counts though. Keanen said to me Mama we couldn’t go into this Sectional game thinking we are going to win because anything could happen we have to keep our heads on straight. I was proud to hear him say that, it reassured me he was ready for these Sectional games to begin.

Thursday night the Cherokees were on fire when they took the field. They came out scoring goal after goal. It was an awesome night for them and a WIN like that helps to starts off Sectionals right for any team, I’m just glad it happen to be the Cherokees.

Saturday afternoon was the Cherokees next Sectional game against R.H.S., a team we have never played before only read and heard about in the local paper. Coach felt we would match up well with them and the Cherokees did. Again when the Cherokees took the field they were on fire, playing like they have never played before. Another WIN for a possible Sectional Title for the Cherokees.

Saturday night third Sectional game, this is for the Championship. Cherokees play K.V.H.S. for the Sectional Championship. Something was different Saturday night though, when the Cherokees took the field the fire wasn’t the same. I’m not saying they didn’t fight hard because they did! They fight very hard to win but something was different. Different enough that it just wasn’t enough to clinch it. Cherokees had to play three games to clinch it and the other teams only had to play two. So the boys were upset when they lost that third game after winning the first two and doing it so good!

Unfortunately that’s how the draws go, one team will get that third game and this year it was the Cherokees. And soccer is different too which I don’t agree with. According to IHSAA all schools 5-A to A, that’s what we are “A” play for the State Title in soccer. Unlike football or any other sports you stay in your class 5-A, 4-A, 3-A, 2-A & A. I do believe in miracles so maybe one day our little “A” school could beat a big 5-A school in state???? Like we use to say in football, any given Friday night anything could happen. Still not fair in my book.

Everyone is very proud of the Cherokees. Only two years for having this soccer program at the school and to be so close to winning a Sectional Title how can we as the parents of these boys not be proud of them! And then three of them (seniors) were voted PCC All Around Conference in Soccer, how awesome is that! They are all winners in my eyes.

I know Keanen was so happy that his Papa, Mimi, Uncle Mike and Aunt Renee were able to come out, see and cheer him on in Sectionals. I know it was a blessing for me too. Thank you to everyone for your support and prayers this season it has been fun, exciting and busy with out your help we would have never made it.

Keanen you were so awesome I love you! Mom

Homemade Salsa

2008-10-06T13:57:00.000-05:00

The other thing my garden produced this summer was jalapeno peppers. Now these are one of my favorite peppers. As I would pick them I wasn’t sure what I would do with them. Yesterday I decided I have to use or loss them, so salsa was ending result.

I have never made homemade salsa before and had no clue how to make it. With a little bit of this and a little bit of that, that being what I already had in the pantry along with the peppers poof! I had salsa.

The peanut gallery approved.

And Here's

2008-10-03T08:02:00.000-05:00

My Favorite Cherokee Defender

Keanen 2008 Varsity and JV Soccer

This is one Defender you don't want to mess with!

Now you know who has been keeping me so busy with soccer

and he has been worth every minute.

Great job Keanen, Love Mom

Cherokees Win in Over Time

2008-10-02T07:53:00.000-05:00

My life has been taken over by soccer as you can see but we are coming to an end this month. For never knowing a thing about soccer I really think I might have learned something this season. This is the one and only sport Keanen never played and I have to tell you I've really come to enjoy it.

Last night was the second to the last game of the regular season and Cherokees played K.H. But let me back up to last week and give you some background info about what this team did that made me think if we win against them oh how sweet it would be. This team K.H. had come to see the Cherokees play last week and sat next to me (mom of a player) and talked trash about the Cherokees during the game. Now I know they are kids just talking but the ring leader was the coach of the K.H. team which just made it look really bad. Me being the very competitive person that I am thought, "oh boy I can't wait till we make you eat that grass when we play you just keep talking trash like you are so much better than us". Now I had no idea what this team was like, the way they talked they were the best team and they were going to beat the Cherokees shorts right off of them.

Now back to last night. Game starts and Cherokees and K.H. look pretty even, then all of a sudden Cherokees SCORE! By half time Cherokees 2, K.H. 1. Second half starts and K.H. ties it up but then we score again by the end of the game we are tied and games over. Now we go into over time two five minute sudden death rounds and Cherokees are the only ones that SCORE! CHEROKEES WIN!

It took everything I had not to walk over to that coach and say, that's what you get for coming to our game last week and teaching your kids to talk trash. This would fall under the saying, you reap what you sow.

Dreaming

2008-09-30T16:15:00.000-05:00

Have you ever had a dream and you remembered it then a couple days maybe even a week later had another dream that would be considered “Part 2” of that first dream you had? Confused yet, don’t worry I am too and I’m the one who had the dreams.

Last night or maybe early this morning I woke up, and was wide awake unable to fall back asleep. Of course terror always sets in because I can’t sleep (major sleeping disorder I have) so I lay there in fear thinking about how tired I’ll be at work if I don’t go back to sleep. Then my mind begins to race about everything under the sun.

Next thing I remember is dreaming about a dream I had before and this is “Part 2” and I remember thinking that in the dream. I thought to myself this is not even possible, how could it be??? Then the man in the dream told me, sure it could happen because it’s happening right now. Great now my dreams are talking back to me, I wonder what in the hell is the number for the nearest rubber room??? It looks like I might be in need. This crap only happens in those weird movies I don’t like to watch.

I’ve had series of dreams before where it was just like an on going movie that never ended. Every night it picked back up where it left off from the night before. I love dreaming they can tell us a lot about what’s going on in our lives. I really do believe this, but last night’s dream was different, strange maybe it was what I was dreaming that made it so weird.

Yet another soccer game

2008-09-30T07:39:00.000-05:00

The Cherokees must be close to being all soccered out! They played again last night after playing all weekend.

This game was against H.C. the team that beat us in the Championship at the Invitational this past weekend. And they beat the Cherokees again last night.

Keanen played in the second half of the Varsity games and then played a new position in the J.V. game last night. Which Mike and I think is good because of his speed.

J.V.'s game was called for darkness and probably mosquito invasion.

Soccer, And More Soccer

2008-09-29T09:25:00.000-05:00

Friday night Cherokees Varsity and JV teams had soccer games. Varsity played first against H.H.S. becoming tied right at the end of the game. In order to break the tie you go into a five minute sudden death play off. I know now why they call it sudden death, a couple kids got hurt during this time. No one scored during this time so we go into another five minute sudden death play off. Again, no one scores. Now they take five players from each team and have them do goalie kicks. We made all but one of our kicks it went right over the top of the goal. The other team missed a few of their kicks because our goalie had deflected them and some were bad kicks, so we WON! the game! This was the most exciting game of the year!

Then after all that excitement the Cherokees JV team took the field with the darkness falling quickly upon us and the mosquitoes biting like mad. Not much of the game was played because it was called on darkness. We all packed up and went home but don't worry there was more soccer to come Saturday morning for the Cherokees at an Invitational.

Saturday morning we were off to the Invitational over at W.W., 4 teams and 4 games, this makes for an all day event. We played first round against the W.W. and the Cherokees WON! This meant we didn't have to play till 4:00 p.m. long break what in the world do you do till then? Watch a little of the next game, o.k., now what?

Keanen and some of the other varsity players went back to one of the players house to hang out. Keanen like a good son kept in touch with me by cell phone. Mike, Rexie and I decided to check out the fest in this small town we were in before heading back home for a couple hours before the next game. You would never believe who works there in this small town either, Barney Fife. He ran us straight out of this fest. The reason was my baby Rexie was not welcome there. I wanted to say to Officer Fife, excuse me but is that not a Gray Hound booth I see over there and you welcome pigs here at your fest so tell me what is it that you are afraid of Officer Fife? Is it that my baby Rexie might jump up and bite you in the balls? Because so far he has made many people here very happy, it's actually been very difficult for me to shop because everyone wants to visit with my baby Rexie. Sir you seem to be the only one that has a problem with him. We'll leave that's not a problem I just hope he doesn't piss on your shoe as you feel the need to escort us out of an outside fest. Wait, let me count how many other little dogs I see here, boy Officer Fife you have your day cut out for you. We headed back home had some lunch and then back to W.W. for the Championship game.

The Championship game was with a much more experienced team H.C. but the Cherokees hung in there giving them a good game. In the end we loss but we played well and that is what matters. Keanen played both the morning and afternoon game, which is awesome. He has done such a good job this year in soccer. Being a Freshman and playing Varsity level is amazing, he had never played soccer before so I'm really proud of him for doing so well.

My Sweet Organic Garden

2008-09-26T08:52:00.001-05:00

As the summer rapped up this past weekend I decided I would harvest my organic sweet potatoes. I was a little worried digging them up because we had put the garden in the lowest lying area thinking that way all the plants would have nice moist soil all the time. This was good for most of the other plants but not so good for the sweet potatoes. I found out after researching, they need a hot and dry climate.

After spending what seemed like forever digging up the garden hunting for my sweet potatoes, I only had to toss a few from being water logged. I then cleaned the good ones and gave the tiny, tiny ones to the dogs for treats. The dogs had been dancing around me the whole time I was working just waiting for a veggie treat. By the time I was done tossing water logged sweet potatoes and passing out treats to the dogs believe it or not I had more than enough for dinner.

Our garden this year was a spur of the moment, wing and a prayer garden, but all and all we have had more than we could have ever asked for from this garden. It saved us from buying salad fixing all summer long so I can’t complain. Next year we plan to move the garden to another area and make it much, much bigger.

My Sweet Organic Garden

2008-09-26T07:55:00.000-05:00

A Win, Win last night

2008-09-25T07:54:00.000-05:00

Keanen had two soccer games last night and both games were Wins!

The Cherokees Varsity team won against the L.L. Varsity team 4-1 and the Cherokees J.V. team won against the L.L. J.V. team 2-0. They both were really good games, despite the zillion mosquitoes you had to fight off because of the recent rains we've had.

Keanen had some great plays as he always does in the games. Here's what so strange, Keanen and another kid run into each other, the kid is knocked down. Mostly Keanen's fault because he playing defender, the referee says to Keanen, "your lucky to not be dead #3" Keanen said, what is that suppose to mean? The referee is the adult, these are kids (high school age) I just don't get it? It's soccer for one, the kids knock each other down all the time. Keanen has a big black mud spot on his short from the game because someone ran into him and knocked him down at one point well many times during the game. This isn't ballet class, it's a bunch of boys almost men out there being aggressive trying to win so they don't have to put their tail between the leg after the game when they march to the bus. I only wish I would have heard the referee when he said that to Keanen. Keanen told me later when we got home. I asked Keanen are you sure you heard him right, he said yes because KW heard it too.

The Cherokees Won and I'm proud of them and Keanen for playing good.

Wacky Wednesday

2008-09-24T14:32:00.000-05:00

Some times Pongo and Rexie help themselves to the

recycle bin and drag out treats
While Angel watches with big smiles thinking
"your going to be in trouble and I'm not"

Rexie with his puppy eyes
"I'm sorry mommy"

My Son the Chef

2008-09-23T07:37:00.000-05:00

Keanen loves watching cooking shows and he loves to bake with me and I have to be honest I love when he bakes with me. I'm not that great at baking so things turn out so much better when he helps.

Well, over the weekend Keanen got the chance to learn how to make stuffed green peppers with his Papa. Of course Papa managed and Keanen did all the work. If you've ever made stuffed green peppers before you know this is a great recipe for young people to learn, because of the mushy meat and rice part.

I have to say, and I'm trying not to brag on my son they were the most wonderful stuffed green peppers I ever ate in my whole life. And if your reading Mom I think they were almost as good as yours.

He may just be the next Great Chef on T.V.

FEAR

2008-09-22T07:55:00.000-05:00

Can be a powerful emotion over us. It can cause the mind to begin racing with crazy thoughts.

But that’s just what fear wants us to do, be powerless to it. Be crazy with our thoughts.

Well, I refuse to give in to an emotion. I am stronger than that. I no longer fear.

Cherokees Win Big

2008-09-20T17:03:00.000-05:00

Cherokees ran circles around the W.S. Friday night. It was another high scoring game for the Cherokees winning big! I know they are kids and all but that's what you call a good old butt spanking. And the W.S. deserved it in some ways making fun of the Cherokees. The boys on the W.S. came with Mohawk hair duos, high school sports???

We took Rexie to the game with us and he had on his school colors too. You know he has to show his school spirit and cheer on the Cherokees. Not this way though he tried to leave a gift on the W.S. field. It was sorta funny though as he was doing his little business a ball came flying at high speeds his way almost killing him, luckily Mike yanked his leash in time to save him meanwhile he never stopped doing his business.

Later in the game Keanen blocked a kicked ball by kicking it to the side lines. Which is great but here's the problem with that kick, he sent the ball to the sidelines at high speeds and the pathway straight for my face. Thank goodness for Mike's quick reflexes he was able to hit the ball away and save my face from being smashed.

I have to say it was an exciting game Friday for the Cherokees.

Not Your Daddy's Farm

2008-09-18T07:48:00.000-05:00

Mike has worked doing surveying and engineering on a lot of farms, usually smelly cow farms. This farm he worked on was different, very different because it didn't involve anything you or I would think of when we think FARM! No livestock or plants instead we're talking tons, yes tons of these that you see on this truck.

This is different than your Daddy's farm or Granddaddy's farm. These wind farms are going up to help us lower our energy cost and reduce greenhouse gas emission.

You can read about this wind farm in Benton County, Indiana on Earl Park Indiana site. And even more information is available on these links, Orion Energy, GE Energy - 1.5 MW Wind Turbines and there is even a children's interactive site Wind with Miller you can visit to learn more.

The size of these Wind Turbines are incredible. You have to see them in person to really understand their true scale in size. Here are some picture I captured when Mike took me to the wind farm. I laid on my back to take some of these pictures, the wind turbines were so tall.

I've heard they may give tours in the near future. I recommend you go and see them. Their size will amaze you.

They sell their energy that's produced to utility companies down south. What I think would be nice, because it's in our back yards basically is sell it to us, lower our cost.

Now let's play a game, Where's Mike? Look for the arrow and Mike you'll see what I mean about the scale of the wind turbine.

Got to scrub the mud

2008-09-17T12:47:00.000-05:00

Cherokees played the CCDS last night in a muddy, muddy field. And this was black mud, from all the rain and flooding that we've been dealing with here. Uniforms were not pretty after the two games.

Keanen played both Varsity and JV last night so I had the pleasure of scrubbing two white pairs of short when we got home last night. I would have loved to just let them soak over night but Cherokees Team pictures were today and uniforms were needed.

I finally got so frustrated trying to remove the mud I grabbed my toothbrush and started scrubbing the mud splats with it. Sounds gross but it seem to be the only way the mud splats would come out. No, I didn't use that toothbrush again to brush my teeth.

Varsity lost but JV won their game, and Keanen had some really fancy foot work going on last night.

It's still a little crazy here

2008-09-16T11:58:00.000-05:00

Flooding in the area has caused a lot of problems making things crazy still. Last night it took me an hour to get home from work, normal commute is about 20 minutes. Traffic was bumper to bumper and crawled at 10 miles per hour down the only road that was open; I don't think I ever touched the gas pedal all the way home. Just about every road in the area is closed for one reason or another.

This is where all the crawdads are coming from, the neighbors ditch. As you can see them climbing the wall to escape. Where they are going I don't know.Is he not yucky???

Take a look at him

Pongo, our big black lab thought that the crawdads were interesting.

He stuck his nose right down on them but they didn't snap at Pongo???

The crawdads probably freaked out seeing Pongo!

Rain, Rain & More Rain

2008-09-15T08:32:00.000-05:00

We've had rain for three days straight now and on my way to work this morning it was sprinkling which would make it four days of rain if it continues. UGH!!!!!

Friday afternoon Keanen called me after school and said, "mama I'm home, no soccer practice it's been raining all day the fields to wet." Ever since that phone call Friday and before that, I should say it has been raining here. Our sump pump has not stopped running which is a good thing, no water in our basement.

The entire area is flooded, expressways, side roads and even the schools in all the surrounding counties are all closed today. I have never seen it like this before. We didn't have bad storms we just had rain, lots of rain for days which caused so much flooding.

Saturday I hosted a Pampered Chef Party and everyone made it even though it was pouring down rain and roads were closed. The party was a success, if you are in this area and want to order something I have a link on my page just click and fill my name in as host. Email me if you have questions, I'm not closing the party till this Sunday (9/21)

Sunday the rain kept us in the house, there was really no place we had to go so we stayed home and made a lazy day out of it. Crawdads were coming up out of the ground the water was so high at our house. Now talk about crazy things happening during a flood, this was one of them. I didn't know we even had such a thing at our house????

So today Keanen is home from school because of the flooding, I wish I could be home with him.

Mike and I always drive in to work together but today he went in early because they (Mike and his field co-worker) were leaving for an out of town job site. When I got ready to leave I couldn't find my key to the SUV. Now you must know I'm very routine about things, my key when I'm done driving always goes straight into my purse. Well, this morning it was no where to be found. So, I had to drive the extra vehicle that was in the drive way, it's there because it's for sale. Wouldn't you know when I got in the truck, mad and all the dash broad is dead! Nothing is moving or on, but it works. I just prayed I could get to work with no problems. I called Mike, "do you think it's o.k. to drive?" He said yes, even though everything said no! I'm praying no flood waters on the way or anything else happens, I did make it although traffic was very slow.

Dear Lord, hi it's me Amy, can you please make it Friday even though it's suppose to be Monday, I'm just having one of those days and I'd really like to start the weekend right away. Thank you, Lord for blessing me today. Amy

Do you think he will answer yes to this one, NOT!

Never Forget

2008-09-11T13:21:00.000-05:00

How can we ever forget 9/11

Thank you to our Troops that keep us safe.

Please don't forget to say a prayer for our Troops to keep Them safe.

Hump Day Feels Like Bump Day

2008-09-10T12:15:00.000-05:00

Today is Hump Day, you know where in the middle of the week we're making it over the hump. Well, my hump day feel like this big, big mountain.I keep trying to climb over it but I keep falling down and rolling back to the bottom. Oh, I try it again and again but nope I'm still at the bottom. It's suppose to be a hump not a mountain, I can't seem to make it over. And in the process this is what I look and feel like now.

On a happier note Keanen had a Varsity soccer game last night and the Cherokees won against WHS! He played and did well like always. Then after soccer he had Basketball practice. My goodness the schedules we keep.

It's no wonder I look like Mr. Bump!

My simple life

2008-09-09T11:24:00.000-05:00

I'm trying to learn to live a simple life, but it's not easy. One thing in this process though is learning to cook more homemade things to make life simple. I just refuse to resort to the "fast food" for a quick dinner solution, because it's so unhealthy and not to mention costly.

Last week because of a few soccer games I knew I needed something easy and quick for dinner, my try at homemade chicken pot pies, this makes one large one.

Here is what you need and how to make it (so simple)

Two pie crust
Two large white chicken breast
One large can of cream of chicken soup (or whatever cream of soup you prefer)
One can of peas
One can of carrots
1/4 cup of milk

Preheat oven to 375. Next start cooking the chicken. I prefer to cook my chicken on the grill but you may cook it anyway you like. I even flavored my chicken while it cooked so I didn't have to add any seasonings to the recipe. While chicken is cooking in a bowl mix the cream of soup, peas, carrots and 1/4 cup of milk together. After the chicken is done cooking, cut it into small pieces and stir into the mixture. Then scoop the mixture into one of the pie crust. You will have some mixture left over, I put mine into a small pot and heat on the stove like soup. (makes for a great lunch the next day) Now with the other pie crust you will need to carefully cover your pot pie and seal the edges by pinching them together. Place in the over that is preheated at 375 for 35 minutes and when it beeps you have your homemade chicken pot pie.

I have to tell you my family really loved this chicken pot pie. I want to try little ones next that I can make for each person. For myself, I would do a mushroom veggie pot pie. Keanen, I would make the chicken pot pie, and for Mike, I would make a meat lovers pot pie. Then that way when someone is hungry they can pull one out of the freezer and heat it up and mom can relax. O.k., so I'm dreaming but it was a nice thought.

I went back to school

2008-09-09T07:52:00.000-05:00

Last night we attended Parents Night at the High School. We were able to attend each class for 8 minutes and listen to the teachers speak on how the classes were run and taught.

It was very interesting to hear each teacher speak and they all seemed very nice. All the teachers were more than willing to make sure the students had time in class to start homework and maybe even get it done.

I couldn't believe how great all these teachers were. I'm very pleased with the school and teachers.

School has come along way since I was there. I enjoyed going back to school last night. When I came home Keanen got to ask me "how was school today mama?"

Weekend Wrap Up

2008-09-08T07:47:00.000-05:00

Friday - Keanen had a JV and Varsity Soccer game back to back against BG. He played both games really well despite the fact that he's been sick all week. Just as the sun was going down and the bugs were starting to bite the game was over. Both games for the Cherokees were a loss.

When we got home from the game I started laundry right away, two smelly uniforms just couldn't wait till morning. I was able to get laundry done Friday night this weekend. Having soccer games during the week had eased my loads already so it didn't take to long to do laundry.

Keanen hit the hay right after eating some home made chicken and dumplings that my dad had made. And I was right behind Keanen being that I had the exploding head problem.

Saturday - We had a lot planned as we do most weekends. We had to take Rexie for ear cleaning and nail trimming. Next we needed to stop by Mike's grandpa's place to help him with somethings.

Then back home to go to the fest that was going on in town. I only like to go to look at the craft booths for home decorations.

That evening relaxed in the hot tub for awhile before bed. Next thing I know I'm awakened in the middle of the night by loud, I mean so loud of music it scared me right out of bed.

We are not sure what happened, but when we got up to see where the loud music was coming from we found it was the hot tub radio. The hot tub was opened incorrectly, so it was difficult to close and the music was on some crazy station full blast. No clue what happened, little scary because I think someone was back there messing around with it. First clue, the cover was messed up - second clue, the radio was on a station we would never listen to even if paid.

Sunday - We took the big dogs to a fundraising event for a dog shelter in our area. The big dogs received a bath and nail clipping for an awesome price all for a great cause and they look so pretty with their new bandanna's on.

TGIF

2008-09-05T07:45:00.000-05:00

I'm happy Friday is here! You would have never known that this week was a four day work week. It sure did feel like a five day work week. I guess when your head is ready to blow out the front of your eyes 4-5 days of work doesn't seem to really matter now does it.

I was thinking while driving in into work this morning, every time I blinked it hurt so bad, if I could only take off my eyelids I'd feel so much better! Well, by 10:00p.m. I'll be able to put my head on my nice soft pillow; that's only how many hours from now............. But hey, it's TGIF that's what it's all about!

Have a great weekend!

Oh my head

2008-09-04T13:42:00.000-05:00

This is my head or at least what it has been feeling like.

Awakened by this pain is not good. Then being so tired and exhausted from the pain I finally do go back to sleep only to wake again with this pain. UGH!

Another Win for the Cherokees

2008-09-03T08:06:00.000-05:00

Cherokees had another big win running over O-D.H.S.

All though I will not win Mother of the year, I didn't go to this game. I didn't think Keanen was going to play, he had a sore toe and the drive from work is about an hour and half.

Keanen and I talked about it the night before and that morning but as a mom I still feel bad for missing a game. So from now on I will never miss a game no matter how far away or even if he's hurt, the guilt is terrible.

On a happier note I'm just glad the Cherokees won!

My Coffee

2008-09-02T07:47:00.000-05:00

O.k. so it's not Monday morning, but I still need my coffee. And yes, I need a big cup because it feels like a Monday even though it's a Tuesday. After about two of these I'll be ready to deal with people.

Until then please stay away! A girl needs her coffee in the morning! Hurry up boys mix-in that creamer fast!

I tried to relax

2008-09-01T21:21:00.000-05:00

I did o.k. this weekend when it came to relaxing. I did the laundry first thing Saturday morning to get that out of the way. Then after breakfast I cleaned the rest of the house so that I could relax the rest of my days off. If you want to call it that. When is a wife and mothers work ever really done? I never leave the kitchen. One meal is a three hour task for me.

I did get some things done this weekend that I've been meaning to do. Mike and I hung a mirror in the entry way. We also hung some decorations in the hallway that I've put off because I couldn't decide what exactly I wanted to do with them.

I worked in the garden and cleaned it up, the dogs of course always willing to help me with that they love their veggies too.

I also took some time and just relaxed on the front porch and just watched time go by. I then took some more time and relaxed in the hot tub to free my mind. I didn't turn on the computer all weekend and it felt great!

I love my simple country life.

Labor Day Weekend

2008-08-29T07:56:00.000-05:00

I'm glad this weekend is an extended weekend, it been hard getting up every morning for work. Being a working mom is never what I had in store for myself but sometimes things don't always go our way.

At least there is a day to celebrate those who work, I'll take it and maybe do nothing this weekend. Well, after I finish the laundry, clean the house and run to the grocery store. I'm sure there is something else I'm forgetting so it's good we have Monday off, by then I should be done with everything and ready to relax maybe.

Bloggy Award

2008-08-28T12:02:00.000-05:00

Jodi from Beacon of Hope gave me an award and I'm just now getting around to posting it. She is one great blogger who always makes my day. Of course then when I saw she gave me this award I was shocked. I didn't know I made her day.

Thank you so much Jodi for this award and for always Making My Day and I'm glad to know I Make Your Day.

I'd like to past this award along to a new blogger I found who's been Making My Day. Jessica from When Life Gives You Lemons. Thanks Jesse for some great blogging.

How does your garden grow

2008-08-28T11:12:00.000-05:00

It's been a while since I was here. With the start of school it has been crazy.

The garden is still going strong, lettuce and tomatoes is all I'm picking these days. Well, I'm not the only one that picks from the garden, the dogs always walk out with me and pick too. It's crazy to see it but all three of them pick the tomatoes right off the plant and eat them. I've never known dogs to love veggie like my dogs. I have to believe it healthy for them, right?

The other thing my dog love is the corn off the stalks right out of the corn field. Angel will pull the whole stalk right out of the ground to get her corn. It's a sight to see. Pongo is a little better at it, he just pulls the ear of corn off the stalk. Rexie is too little so he has to wait for the corn to be pulled and peeled by the big dogs (yes, the dogs even peel the corn) then Rexie goes in for the steal.

If only I would video tape what goes on at my house someday I could probably win a lot of money for such entertainment.

Thursday Thoughts

2008-08-28T07:44:00.000-05:00

I'm so thankful for Thursday because I know tomorrow is Friday.

These soccer games are exhausting me. Another game last night which was really two because the boys have to dress for both JV & Varsity (small school not enough player for two teams). Leaving the house at 7:00 am and not returning home until after 9:00 pm is difficult. The last things I wanted to hear last night while eating dinner at almost 10:00 pm from Keanen was "the Cross Country Coach wants me to still come out and be on the team mama". My response was "ugh, I thought they didn't have a team because the coach quit?" Keanen, "he came back and asked me to run, so I'm going to try it." Me, "If you can get it to work with soccer."

My thoughts, how in the world can we fit anythings else in???? I do hope he does whatever he wants to do, he's good or the coach wouldn't be asking but there are only so many hours in a day.

Back to the game last night, Cherokees lost to the WBC by a couple goals. It was the most physical soccer game I had ever seen. A WBC player, Keanen and our goalie ran into each other - our goalie was out for the rest of the game. Keanen's knee busted the goalies mouth up pretty bad. The game stopped for sometime while medical attention was given to the goalie. No teeth were lost so that was the plus side to the collision.

One of our kids was yellow carded and then red carded - which means thrown out of the game and the next game we play. No one could believe how physical this other team was. Our kids returned it right back but when they did they were called for it. What was unfair was we were called on it but they were not called on it. Not that it would have change the out come of the game but still things need to be fair. Me and Keanen said in Europe they call soccer football for a reason, haha!

I feel like I should change my blog name to - Adventures in Soccer Mom or Soccer is Our Life! Soccer, Soccer, Soccer. Or change it to what ever sport is going on at the time that seems to be all I blog about. Mike said it's like our lives, Boring!

Late Start Wednesday

2008-08-27T07:45:00.000-05:00

Today is the first day for the Late Start Wednesday this year at school. Maybe some would see it as a day for their kids to sleep an extra 30 - 40 mins. but for the working parent it's really just a thorn in the side.

Really it is just a thorn in my side just like when they call 2 hour snow delays, or have half days that start at noon. To the working parents that leaves the home it's just waiting, wondering did they make it on the bus or is the phone going to ring - "mama, I missed the bus" and now I have to drive all the way home to take them to school because they missed the bus. And maybe some would say, stay home till they make on the bus - easier said then done. Some of us work!

Keanen is good about getting ready on time, I shouldn't worry. I'm a mother that's what I (we) do. I've called him twice on his cell, last time I talk to him he was outside waiting for the bus. He is such a good kid!

Last night the Cherokees played PCS and ran over top of them in the soccer game. We stopped counting the goals after a while. It was something like 11-0. I really felt bad for the other team.

Hello cows!

2008-08-25T10:06:00.000-05:00

On our way home from dropping off Michael at Purdue two weekends ago we took the long way home. We wanted to make a few stops along the way and this was one of them, to see the cows.

Mike works with many of the NWI Dairy Farms, engineering their extremely large dairy sites. Mama's have to be made comfortable and babies have to have a place to stay too.
These little guys were wondering who was there to take their picture.

The little guy on the left didn't want his picture taken he was a little shy.

Soccer, Soccer, Soccer

2008-08-22T12:25:00.000-05:00

Now that we've had three soccer games this week

I'm ready for a break and I'm sure Keanen is too. I love to watch Keanen play don't get me wrong but this was the first week of school and HELLO people don't you think it's a bit much to schedule three games the first week????

The good news is the Cherokees are still going strong! They beat the Senators in last nights game. Again Keanen played a really good game.

That's Keanen in the yellow shirt and green socks standing in the middle of the field. And yes, that's a corn field next to the soccer field. Come on by sometime and sit on my front porch and sip ice tea or lemonade, while we watch the cows across the way on the hill. Gotta love the country life!

Cherokees Soccer

2008-08-21T07:40:00.000-05:00

Last night the 1-A Cherokees played the 5-A Bulldogs and we lost. The Cherokees kept it a low scoring game considering the circumstance. I knew the Bulldogs would most likely win but I'm very proud of the Cherokees. And Keanen played his position awesome! Keanen's coach said to Mike and I, "you can't teach speed and that's one thing Keanen has is speed."

This game was not even on our schedules it was a last minute add on. If you know anything about high school sports 1-A and 5-A never play each other it's like they are different levels. They have top notch coaching, equipment and fields you name it they got it. Expect education we are small but smart - 4 Star School! O.k., so I'm over the loss sort of. Go Cherokees!

Yes, I'm a terrible loser but you have to remember I was a Bulldog for so long and use to winning all the time I hate to lose.

First Day of High School

2008-08-20T07:39:00.000-05:00

This morning as I waited to pull out of the driveway to leave for work, I watched Keanen board the bus as a freshmen this year in school. It wasn't long ago I was sending him off to his very first day of school and now here I am sending him off to high school. In four years which I know will fly right pass me I'll be moving him into a dorm room at some university crying my eyes out as I say good-bye. They just grow up so fast.

For now though I'm happy he is here at this small school and I can't say enough about small schools, this one will blow your socks off. Sunday evening the bus driver came by our house in his own car, to say hello and let us know what time he'll be picking up and on which days (we have late start wed.). Also, he wanted to make sure Keanen wasn't driving himself to school this year.

Last night was the first Cherokees soccer game against MC and it was a WIN! Crazy we had our first soccer game before the school year even started.

Tonight we play against CP Bulldog where Keanen and Michael both use to attend school, so this will be a fun game. We are now Cherokees all the way since Michael graduated this year and Keanen has been a Cherokee for over a year now. GO Cherokees!

Move In Day At Purdue

2008-08-17T16:53:00.000-05:00

This weekend was move in day for Michael down at Purdue.

Never thought this day would come but it has and it feels so strange.

I remember my days on campus and it feels like just yesterday.

Michael unpacking ALL his things into his small dorm room.

They lofted the beds to have more room and it did help.

Dad and Michael

(roommate behind Dad on left side,
friends and from high school)

Had to have a t.v. and 360 game system.

After we moved Michael in and said good-bye, we drove around campus.
If I had just moved in a daughter this may have worried me a little,
These crazy guys were filling a pool full of water and put up this sign -
Free Swimming Lessons Freshmen Females, College Life!

Just a picture of a walk to a building.

I'm sure this has some name or meaning,

being new to the campus I don't know,

so for now it's just a pretty picture.

Purdue Boiler Train

Took this picture as we went by.

Olympics '08: Michael Phelps Wins 8th Gold

2008-08-17T16:51:00.000-05:00

2008-08-15T23:23:00.000-05:00

He is AMAZING! Fish or Man? Maybe Manish???

USA Gold & Silver

2008-08-15T07:44:00.000-05:00

USA girls, Johnson and Liukin brought home the

Silver and Gold.

I won't complain about the judges and the bad scoring last night and every night because we did win. And I won't mention the age factor of some of these girls from you know where??? We all know that when you look at the same countries swimmers that say they are 19 years old and then look at the gymnastics girls who say they are 15-16 years old no way. Cheaters! USA played fair and square, way to go USA! You can't stop the BEST!

School already

2008-08-12T16:38:00.000-05:00

It does not in any way shape or form feel like school is starting next week. We went yesterday morning to register Keanen and it just felt strange. With no Bulldog Football this year it just doesn't seem right and I can't find my groove.

New traditions are always welcomed and Keanen's going to play High School Soccer for the Cherokees this year. Now the hype is not the same as football but that's o.k., we'll get into it just the same each year and I hope next year I'll have my groove back.

I'm still adjusting to the small school verses the big school even after Keanen has been here about a year or so. I asked yesterday after we registered don't we get to go find his locker and classes blah, blah, blah - these people looked at me like I was crazy. I guess when you have K-12 in one school there is no reason to find anything because there is nothing to find. The more I talked the more they looked at me crazy. Keanen finally grabbed me by the arm and said, mama I'll be fine lets just go. I tried to explain I was just use to him being in big schools, but it didn't seem to matter I think they all just feel sorry for my boy because he has a crazy mom. I am a little crazy but it's more like I have big school syndrome and I can't get rid of it- HELP!

My Garden Update

2008-08-08T08:28:00.000-05:00

Everyday I have to pick the tomatoes from my garden. They are coming in so fast we can't seem to eat them fast enough. These are the cherry tomatoes, but some have become the size of golf balls. And for the record I use no chemicals in my garden.

These are the bigger tomatoes that I have growing. I have picked and made fried green tomatoes. Most of the time I pick them when they are red.
The peppers didn't do so well but there are three in the picture and I've already picked three so that's not to bad.

The big leaves you see next to the peppers are my sweet potatoes. The sweet potatoes as far as I know are doing well except for the darn bugs that were eating the leaves for a while till I got one of those beetle bags. I refuse to use chemicals so there was nothing I could do for a while. Now everything is good.

The cantaloupe didn't make it. I had one that grew to a baseball size then became detached from the vine, not sure what happened.

And the cucumber plant gave me one nice cucumber and that was it.

As for the lettuce it has finally settled down. I'm picking it once or twice a week instead of everyday now.

I look forward to next year with so much excitement it's not even funny. I can't wait to make a huge garden and try this all over again. I wish it wasn't so far away. Never in a million years did I ever see myself like a kid in a candy store over a garden.