Blades of Glory

Would you believe we have never taken the kids ice skating. It came up in conversation the other day and we decided to take them when we had a chance. Well, today we had opportunity and they did really well. I don't think the boys were too impressed, in fact, Tyler said ice skating is "overrated." Trenton and Tyler did entertain themselves (and others)...trying to do cute little moves and spins and playing tag with their dad. Gabi, on the other hand, had a fabulous time and wants to go again. Ben was the brave one and ventured on the ice with her. After a few falls, she got the hang of it pretty quickly. All in all, it was a good time as a family.

Al Smith Awards

A good friend of mine caught this on tape - Ben was busy taking pics (as you can see in the video) and I was busy enjoying the moment and clearing the happy tears from my eyes. It all went by so fast that I couldn't catch it all. In fact, Kathy also caught Trenton's last part of his match and all the hugging and celebrating afterwards...a definite keepsake. Unfortunately, I couldn't put that on youtube because it is too long, but it is priceless. Note - Trenton is believed to be the only unseeded wrestler to win the Al Smith. History has been made.

In The News

In the newspaper this morning...front page of the Sports section (picture included)! Also, pics of the Al Smith that I took - here.

Article published Dec 29, 2007

Going the distance

Unseeded Reinoehl works overtime for win

TIM CREASON

Tribune Correspondent

MISHAWAKA -- Trent Reinoehl could be a poster boy for the phrase, "Never Give Up."Given his unseeded status and previous history at the huge Al Smith Wrestling Invitational, the Mishawaka junior really had no business capturing a 130-pound weight class championship Friday afternoon.For that matter, he really had no business even wrestling on the second day of the 32-team tournament.But there he was, on the center mat at Mishawaka High School's gym, locked in an overtime battle with Bellmont's Will Sheets for the 130-pound title.Trailing 4-1 after one period, Reinoehl scored a crucial takedown with 23 seconds remaining to send the bout into overtime. Then, with 24 seconds left in the extra period, he locked up a wing and spun to Sheets' back, scoring the winning points and claiming the title, 8-6.A year ago, when he was wrestling for Penn High School, Reinoehl didn't even get through the morning of the tournament's first day. He lost his first two matches in quick succession.This time around, he was a monster on the mat, dispatching top-seeded Jake Leitch of Elkhart Memorial in the semifinals and giving Mishawaka a huge lift on the way to its second consecutive Al Smith team championship."After I beat Leitch in the semifinals, I knew I could win it," said the first-year Caveman, who improved his season record to 14-3."I knew I had to wrestle six minutes non-stop, and as it turned out, I had to go even longer (in the final)," said Reinoehl. "I actually felt stronger as the match went along. I was unseeded, so I knew that people probably didn't think I would win. I'm glad I had a chance to show them otherwise."Reinoehl was not ranked in the most recent state power poll. Look for that to change in a hurry, as finishing first in the state's most prestigious mat tourney carries a lot of recognition with it.In all, five Mishawaka wrestlers won individual titles, and two others took runner-up honors, as the No. 1-ranked Cavemen ran away from the field.Though 145-pound senior Neal Kostry was ejected and all his points were lost due to a flagrant misconduct call in the wrestlebacks, the Cavemen still won by 92 1/2 points over runner-up Bellmont. They scored 274 1/2.No. 7-ranked Bellmont nipped No. 11 Elkhart Memorial for second place, 182 to 180 1/2."We wrestled really well," said Mishawaka coach Darrick Snyder, whose team had the title mathematically wrapped up before the finals ever began."We're aware that being ranked No. 1 puts a target on our back, and everybody is shooting for us," said Snyder. "That's OK, we have to learn to deal with the pressure if we are going to win a state championship this year."Paul Beck at 103, Josh Harper at 125, Caleb Norville at 171 and heavyweight Randy Morin joined Reinoehl in the winner's circle for Mishawaka, while Steven Sandefer (140) and Brandon Mersich (152) were second-place finishers.Beck knew that a victory in the first match of the day could set the tone for his teammates, so he quickly knocked out Merrillville's Zach Stevens, 7-0, in the semifinals before beating Lawrence North's Brandon Nelson in the finale, 4-0."I went 100 percent the whole time," said Beck, who gave up no offensive points during the tournament. "I wanted to get things rolling for the team."In a rematch of last year's 112-pound state title match, Harper pinned Lawrence North's Cashe' Quiroga in 3:05 for the 125-pound championship. Norville topped Bellmont's previously undefeated Ben Bultemeier, 8-4, at 171.Morin then finished the day in possibly the tourney's roughest showdown, pinning Riley's Mike Palmer following an extremely physical first two periods.(Palmer) and I get pretty intense," said Morin. "It's been building more and more the last couple years. But it was a lot of fun. It really felt good to seal the deal for the team."Jimtown's Ryan Konrath won a championship at 189, edging Elkhart Memorial's Steve Stahl, 3-2, in the finale. Riley's George Malone, meanwhile, took a 4-2 decision from Jasper's Jeremy Steinhart to win the 215 title.And what to make of Warsaw? The Tigers, who have lost most of their dual meets this season, walked out with three champs -- Justin Brooks at 112, Matt Elvidge at 140 and Andy Keener at 152."I know, it's weird," said Keener, who improved to 23-0 with a 5-2 victory over Mishawaka's Mersich in the finals. "It's kind of discouraging to lose as a team all the time, but individually, we've got some pretty good guys. I'm really happy to win today, because I didn't wrestle my best."

AL SMITH WRESTLING INVITATIONAL

At MishawakaTeam scores: Mishawaka 274 1/2, Bellmont 182, Elkhart Memorial 180 1/2, Lawrence North 165 1/2, Merrillville 157 1/2, Peru 151, Riley 150, Hobart 147 1/2, Warsaw 128, Jimtown 114, Prairie Heights 106 1/2, Chesterton 103 1/2, East Noble 98, LaPorte 96 1/2, Jasper 80, Valparaiso 80, Lowell 74, Lake Central 69, Rochester 69, Penn 68, Lawrence Central 64 1/2, New Prairie 62 1/2, Princeton 57, Goshen 56, Benton Central 52 1/2, Adams 52, Calumet 45 1/2, Southport 38 1/2, Wawasee 37, Clay 36, Bremen 32, Fort Wayne Bishop Luers 20.

CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND103: Paul Beck (Mishawaka) dec. Brandon Nelson (Lawrence North), 4-0.112: Justin Brooks (Warsaw) pinned Ben Williams (Chesterton), 5:31.119: Anthony Napules (Merrillville) pinned Caleb Smith (Princeton), 1:43.125: Josh Harper (Mishawaka) pinned Cashe' Quiroga (Lawrence No), 3:05.130: Trent Reinoehl (Mishawaka) dec. Will Sheets (Bellmont), 8-6 in OT.135: Eric Galka (Hobart) dec. Zack Corpe (Elkhart Memorial), 10-4.140: Matt Elvidge (Warsaw) dec. Steven Sandefer (Mishawaka), 6-4.145: Brennan Cosgrove (Hobart) dec. George Markou (Peru), 5-2.152: Andy Keener (Warsaw) dec. Brandon Mersich (Mishawaka), 5-2.160: Ryan Baker (Bellmont) dec. Jordan Schultz (Rochester), 14-7.171: Caleb Norville (Mishawaka) dec. Ben Bultemeier (Bellmont), 8-4.189: Ryan Konrath (Jimtown) dec. Steve Stahl (Elkhart Memorial), 3-2.215: George Malone (Riley) dec. Jeremy Steinhart (Jasper), 4-2.285: Randy Morin (Mishawaka) pinned Mike Palmer (Riley), 4:55.

CONSOLATION ROUND(For 3rd place)103: Travis Barroquillo (Prairie Hts) maj. dec. Zach Stevens (Merrillville), 8-0. 112: Carlo Martinez (Merrillville) pinned Miguel Perez (Riley), 4:01. 119: Ryan Stahl (Elkhart Memorial) dec. Aaron Garretson (Peru), 1-0. 125: Frankie Porras (Hobart) dec. Brandon Harvey (Elkhart Memorial), 6-4. 130: Jake Leitch (Elkhart Memorial) pinned Jacob Plesac (Hobart), 1:58. 135: Tom Churchard (Valparaiso) dec. Jeremiah Edwards (Lawrence North), 10-5. 140: Johnny Dillon (Hobart) dec. Matt Goodwin (Lawrence North), 5-2. 145: David Oviatt (LaPorte) dec. Braden Barkus (Goshen), 7-5. 152: Sam Mitchel (Peru) dec. Mike Roberts (LaPorte), 2-0. 160: Quinn Kurtz (Prairie Hts) dec. Tim Forte (Mishawaka), 3-0. 171: Derick Nesvold (LaPorte) pinned Damon Jones (Lawrence Central), 0:52. 189: Jake Salas (Merrillville) dec. Billy Baker (Bellmont), 4-3. 215: Dylan Forbes (Prairie Hts) dec. Braxton Riley (Wawasee), 8-2. 285: Bart Bugay (Southport) dec. Nick Polson (Lawrence North), 5-2.

CONSOLATION ROUND(For 5th place)103: Nick Neilsen (Riley) pinned Mike Moore (Elkhart Memorial), 2:37. 112: Matt Guerra (Mishawaka) dec. Cameryn Brady (Lowell), 3-2. 119: Adam Guerra (Mishawaka) dec. Mark Olsen (Adams), 1-0. 125: Jeremy Hill (Jimtown) won by forfeit over Taylor March (East Noble). 130: Paul Manbu (Warsaw) dec. Frankie Valdivia (Merrillville), 12-8. 135: Trace Hall (Riley) pinned Braden Happ (Benton Central), 1:54. 140: Doug Linthicum (Bellmont) maj. dec. Tyler Lymburner (Riley), 14-1. 145: Joel Spaw (East Noble) won by forfeit. No 6th place. 152: Trent Busse (Bellmont) won by injury default over Jordan Martin (New Prairie). 160: Bryce Grimes (Lawrence No) dec. Elliot Carner (Peru), 3-0. 171: Zach Groves (Jimtown) dec. Henry Waring (East Noble), 2-1. 189: Nick Poplawski (New Prairie) pinned Jake Urednick (Bremen), 2:15. 215: Derrick Shire (East Noble) won by injury default over Zach Spurgeon (Jimtown). 285: Clint Wurm (Bellmont) won by injury default over Kyle Edlund (Goshen).Officials: Bob Foster (South Bend), Roger Griffith (Middlebury), Ken Gradeless (LaVille), Ray Aldrich (Mishawaka), Andy Wood (Elkhart), Jeff Colborn (Granger), Mark Miller (Rochester), Mike Faulkner (Mishawaka), Mike Overmeyer (Warsaw), Mike Golando (Valparaiso).

Al Smith Invitational

One of the biggest tournaments in the state was held yesterday and today. Trenton went 5-0 to win his weight class! Some of the toughest wrestlers, some even ranked, were there. It was exciting! Trenton had a forfeit the first round and beat Jimmy Larowe from East Noble 6-4. His last match of the day yesterday was against Brian Williams of Jimtown, winning 6-5 putting him in the semi final round. This morning he beat the number one seeded wrestler for his weight class (Leitch) from Elkhart Memorial 3-2 putting him in the final round today at 1:30. His final match was against Sheets from Belmont and he won in overtime 8-6. You can actually watch the final round online here! Just click on "Al Smith Invitational"and go from there to hear it or watch it. Trenton is on cloud 9 knowing he won the "Al Smith" today and we couldn't be more proud! A huge thank you to everyone who came to watch and support Trenton over these past two days. We are lucky to have such wonderful friends and family. In the words of one of Trenton's buddies from the wrestling team, "Here comes the leg train and Trent's the conductor!" Pics to come soon!

**Complete results here.

Merry Christmas!

Busy, busy day....we started our day by opening gifts as a family and finding what Santa left for us in our stockings. Santa left Gabi the Eyeclops and a new MP3 player under the tree. He also left some sweet treats and other small goodies in our stockings. The kids opened their gifts...some highlighted gifts for each included - Trenton (jeans, a flannel shirt, a new Mishawaka Wrestling hoodie, a tranformers t-shirt, CSI for nintendo DS and a pair of cowboy boots as his big gift), Tyler (camouflage shorts, a Mishawaka Wrestling hoodie, an electric shaver, some Vans shoes (red and black) and his big gift was the Zune. Gabi got a Pokemon game for Nintendo DS, an aquarium for tadpoles to grow into frogs, lots of books, and Life's What You Make It (Hannah Montana) DVD. We had fun trying out the Eyeclops (see a short video here). From there we went to Chad and Amber's house for brunch - egg casserole, hash brown casserole, cinnamon rolls and muffins, fruit and sausage was on the menu. We opened gift and enjoyed Star "brughs" cappucinos. We were able to visit with Ben's side - Dave, Dad R., Jeff, Pam and Bren in the afternoon where we also exchanged gifts. Lots of family time today, indeed. Now it's time or some R & R - playing with some of our gifts, checking them out and sitting around, eating leftovers from Christmas Eve at my parent's house. Merry Christmas to all and to all a great night! Enjoy pics from the holiday here.

Special Gifts

As shared last year, we open "special gifts" on Christmas Eve. This year we opened them a day earlier than usual...we opened them yesterday and read our letters along with them. Trenton got this from Gabi, Tyler got these (for wrestling) and a t-shirt sporting this from Trenton, Gabi got this (except a cute pink one) and some earrings from Claires from Ben, Ben got this and a git card to here from me, and I got these -chestnut color (not the real ones because they cost too much - fake ones are still very cute) from Tyler. All in all, it was a good time opening our gifts together as a family. Looking forward to our annual get together with my mom's side of the family this evening...lots of fun, food and laughter!!!

New Prairie

Tyler had a tournament at New Prairie yesterday (pics here). Didn't get home till almost 6 pm...it was a long day for him to only wrestle 3 times. He teched his first two opponents in the second period (18-3 and 19-2) and his last match 6-0. Very proud once again. Looking forward to the Al Smith tournament on Thursday and Friday - biggest tournament in the state! Trenton will be wrestling in this one. Tyler gets to work the tables, etc. because it is at their home school. Go Cavemen!

Let It Be Christmas

Favorite Christmas song by one of my favorite country artists. Click here. Two more days...

"All I want for Christmas is my 2 front teeth"

The tooth fairty visited last night...now there are two holes in front (one on top and one on bottom)!

Cavemen

For those of you who do not have the history of Mishawaka wrestling...check this out!

St. Joe - Varsity!

Tyler's first Varsity match! Tyler was able to go 125 for the St. Joe dual meet. He pinned his opponent in 30 seconds, while Trenton got a forfeit. Tyler said he was a little nervous about this being a varsity match but he went out and did his thing! We were so proud!

Santa

Look who we saw on Saturday! Just as the winter storm was blowing in...we ended up with about 7 inches of snow on the ground!! Seems we will have a white Christmas!

Gabi asked for a Nintendo DS and some games to go with it...Almost finished shopping...just a few more to go.

Penn

64-0

the final score from last night's varsity match. What an awesome atmosphere-with so much family and friend support, we just couldn't have gone wrong! Trenton won his match 15-3 and it was exciting to say the least. Enjoy pics of Trenton here. Support crowd included, but not limited to...my parents, Ben's dad, Jeff, Pam & Bren, Dave, Marissa and her entire family, Mike, Shannon & Briella, Aunt Annie, Aunt Becky, Bill and boys, Kathy and family, (Chad and family cheered at home...Chad was not feeling well but kept informed throughout the meet) - THANK YOU for loving us like you do! We love you all and appreciate your support.

Things got pretty crazy when Trenton and Tyler were wrestling on different mats but at the same time! Catch pics of Tyler here. Tyler pinned his opponent in 5:28 (third period). We were so proud of this video moment I captured with my camera - two boys wrestling at the same time (Trenton's match on far right of screen and Tyler's on the left)!

Friends and Traditions

Gabi and I met up with Lina and Emma for their annual gift exchange at McDonalds this evening. When we set this up Lina asked Emma about meeting us and Emma said, "we have to do it at McDonalds, it's tradition!" How cute! I think at one point during the evening Lina also made a comment, "do you think we'll be meeting here and exchanging gifts when you girls are 16?" Boy, that was a silly questions because both girls looked at us with serious faces and replied, "yes." Gabi got "Meet Miley Cyrus" CD and a Barnes and Noble gift card while Gabi got Emma "High School Musical 2" CD and a Borders gift card. Great minds think alike!

Reinoehl Christmas Party

We had the Reinoehl Christmas Party today after church at DeAmici's. Marissa was invited and she graciously accepted. She was able to meet alot of Ben's side of the family. The one thing my kids absolutely LOVE about the party is the food. Some famous dishes include Aunt Becky's shrimp dip and crackers, my hash brown casserole, and Aunt Becky's taco dip. Those being only a handful amongst the two tables worth of food from chicken and meatballs to cupcakes and jello salad. We also have an ice storm warning till 10 pm so the streets and parking lots are sheets of ice. Ben fell at least 3 times, Tyler, a couple of times, and Gabi, more than 5 times! The kids were having fun with this though on our way out to leave from the party. Caught it on tape. Good food, good times!

Calumet

Trenton went 3-2 yesterday at Calumet. It was certainly a LONG day for him as they did not get back till almost midnight. The team won the tournament as a whole so it was a great day for them! Unfortunately, Ben is not as talented as me so he was unable to film, keep score and take pics. We opted for the keeping score and filming, so that is all we have. Very proud of Trenton. You can read more about this tournament here.

Goshen Invitational

Today we headed to Goshen for Tyler's tournament while Ben and Dave went to Calumet for the Varsity tournament (more on that later). This Invitational was individual so Tyler went 130 lbs. and won out, pinning the first two opponents and winning the Championship round 8-4. My parents, along with Dennis, Kristi (Marissa's parents) and Marissa stayed the whole time with us to watch and support Tyler. We were also excited that Grandpa, Aunt Jenny, Travis and Mackenzy all came to watch his last two matches. So glad they got to watch Tyler!

Elves

My sister in law gave me this idea...thought it was cute, so I tried it.

Click here to enjoy!

18 more days to shop!

First Big Snow With Cousins

Gabi was able to enjoy the snow with Mackenzy (her cousin from Texas). Today she had half a day of school and because Mackenzy and Travis are with Grandpa while Jenny is in Chicago till tomorrow (at a conference), she was able to share some fun times in the snow with her! They had a great time outside and warmed up with a cup of hot chocolate! I asked Mackenzy if she had snow in Texas and she answered, "no, not really." I think she had a fun time with Gabi today playing Barbies, throwing snowballs at Tyler, eating snow, playing grocery store, talking about High School Musical 2 and Hannah Montana...girl stuff. They certainly enjoyed each other's company!

Elkhart Rookie Classic 2007

We were able to catch Tyler's last match (championship round) after leaving Plymouth (Trenton had a forfeit). Tyler went 5-0 for the day!! Tyler had 3 pins (one in 13 seconds!) and 2 decisions. We were so excited that we made it just as soon as the championship round was starting. I think Tyler was happy we made it also. Earlier in the day, a friend was able to catch photos for me as well (she was watching her son there also). It makes it nice to have someone catch the pics you can't - it's greatly appreciated! Uncle Dave and Marissa made Ben company at Tyler's tournament. Enjoy all the pics we have from that day here.

Plymouth Invitational

My parents, Gabi and I went to Trenton's tournament in Plymouth yesterday (and we will switch with Ben next weekend) since it was closer than next weekend. He did awesome! Trenton's only loss was to the Plymouth kid (3-4) and it was mostly from penalty points Trenton gave him. He'll get him next time. Other than that Trenton won his other two matches, and got a forfeit win from the third. Enjoy pics here.

What Matters...

Can I tell you Gabi was too cute yesterday as we went to two, yes, we made it to both tournaments yesterday. After Trenton's one loss Gabi and I went to the bathroom and she said to me, "it's okay mommy, it doesn't matter if you win or lose, what matters is that you have fun....but, it didn't look like much fun out there, it looked like hard work."
Only words from a wrestler's sister.
**Pictures to be posted later...

Gabi's Wish List 2007

Here is Gabi's wish list to Santa...I have a feeling he plans on bringing most of them to her...here's a sneak peek at some of them:

This...in pink (stylish)

She would absolutely love this...to be like her brothers

This version of Rubik's cube

Her favorite singer/actress new movie

This - because her last one fell off the back of the truck coming back from the campground this summer

A favorite game she plays at her best friend's house

This and this book

A sample of the things on her wish list for family include:

This book or others like it

This movie

This or this leapster game

These dolls - her or him

In her letter to Santa recently - Gabi told Santa that she thought he deserved a gift this year for delivering toys to all the boys and girls - how sweet!

Adams

Last night was our first dual meet. The team won as a whole (69-3), while Trenton pinned his opponent in 1:23 and Tyler won by forfeit for the JV team (so unfortunately he was unable to wrestle). The moms get together each year to make "flags" for the boys and hang them in the gym during the wrestling season. They looked very cool!
We had some great support - my parents, Ben's dad and his brother, aunt Annie and her son David, Kristi and Marissa (Tyler's gf and mom) and a good friend, Bill, all showed up to watch our boys last night. It was awesome! It's so good to hear Trenton say, "I am so excited for this season!" A very welcome change in attitude, especially while controlling his weight.













**That's uncle Dave with Gabi standing above Trenton's flag!

Tis' The Season

More on this little cutie girl and her wish list later...

My Wish List

I think it's fun to see what people like and want for Christmas so I thought I would share some things I would love to have (even though I usually do not get alot of these and that's okay, it's just fun to wish).
Been wanting to get one of these for a while now...just waiting till we had extra cash (as you can see, haven't got it yet). My only specification would be a 2 GB - I am not picky.
Have been going on wild goose chases lately for this one. Trying to get the best deal - can't see spending over $50 for one but would really like a 7 inch.
Can't get enough of these. Specifically sugar cookie, clean cotton, lilac blossoms, sweet strawberry, oatmeal cookie and country linen.
My favorite perfume - not expensive and easy to find.
Can always use these - especially around picture taking times.
I need this badly, my stash just recently ran out. I love Pearberry (but it's not available anymore), but I like Black Raspberry Vanilla and Country Apple the best.
I need one of these also for my purse - mine is worn. I have seen some cute ones at the Scrapbooking store.
I am very interested in this book and this one.
Been interested in this for some time (specifically mesa red, classic black, windsor navy or cambridge), just never wanted to pay full price for one.
Love this and cute ones like it. Can never get enough to accessorize with. $30 seems too much though, could probably find something like it for less.
Love this television show - it never could grow old - a show with values and lessons.
Don't laugh when you see this. Fan of the show - like the saying.
Last but not least...gift cards to here, here, or here.
See my whole list here (look up the list by my name). It's fun to create one when you have the time. Enjoy.

Thanksgiving Day

Had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Very different with us not hosting it, but it was fun. The boys started the day by going hunting. Trenton took along his buddy, Caleb, from school. They both ended up getting bucks. Trenton got a 4 point and Caleb a button buck. The boys were ecstatic. Trenton's first buck! Dressed out at 127 lbs.

I made sweet potato casserole and this to go along with my mom's GREAT Thanksgiving dinner. It was nice to visit with Uncle Kenny and Aunt Sharon at my parents' house to start the afternoon off. Ben got nice and cozy after the meal on the couch and took a nap while the rest of us either surfed the internet, looked through ads or watched some football. We were able to visit with Ben's side - Pam, Jeff, Bren, Dave and Dad R. later. We had a good time playing this. To end the day, we met at Chad's house to visit with him, Amber and the girls. Had some desserts and played some Scene It. Beautiful day...the sun stayed out all day and ended with a pretty snowfall. So much to be thankful for. Happy Thanksgiving! Pictures from our day here.

Thankful

* My husband - who is patient with me and always sees the good in everything. His positiveness.
* My children - three beautiful children...one who is passionate about all he does, one who is a total teddy bear, and one who is silly and gorgeous at the same time! What a combo!
* Our parents and siblings - who support us and our children in all we do, we couldn't ask for a better support network. Their love keeps us afloat.
* Our God - a forgiving and loving God.
* Our Country - where we are free to make decisions in all aspects. Freedom. Our troops for keeping that.
* Friends - who listen when I need to vent. Who care.

Have a happy Thanksgiving!

Love these!

Oprah

Some great things on Oprah this week! One I am thoroughly looking forward to is Oprah's Favorite Things show tomorrow! I have always wished I could get tickets for that particular show, ha, yeah, I know, wake up! It's fun to watch and gets you in the Christmas spirit. Wednesday's show is also going to feature Miley Cyrus - Gabi is looking forward to that one. I believe that day they are going to unveil a new American Girl Doll on the show as well on Wednesday. Check out Oprah's schedule here. One particular show I did enjoy was when she featured Randy Pausch, a dying man who gives a lecture meant for his children. Very emotional and had great advice. Gives you a new perspective. One point I liked was the three parts to an authentic apology - 1. I am sorry, 2. It was my fault, and 3. How do I make it right? I enjoyed the lecture so much I put it on the side of my blog. Check it out here or there. Are you a Tigger or an Eeyore?

Build-A-Rudolph

Yesterday Gabi and I had a girls day out. After early service at church, the boys took off hunting since it was the second day of the start of gun season. Gabi and I decided to eat here for lunch (Gabi's choice-she ordered popcorn shrimp and I got my favorite, seafood stuffed flounder) and made a trip to the mall. Gabi had a gift card to Build-A-Bear from her birthday party and she had recently saw a commercial for Rudolph and Clarice there. She mentioned she would love to get one. Immediately she wanted both, but I explained it would cost too much. She opted for Rudolph with a light up nose. VERY CUTE! We saw Santa has made his venture to the mall as well, in fact, Gabi preferred not to sit on his lap at that time. She decided to wait till it got closer, besides, she "already sent her letter to Santa so he already knows what she wants" : ) After visiting the pet store, Gingerbread Cottage, The Disney Store and Bath & Body Works, we headed home. We were both hungry for something sweet so we baked up some yummy chocolate chip cookies (the boys enjoyed them too when they got home). It was a good afternoon, fun filled and exciting to see all the Christmas decorations. Unfortunately, the only deer the boys saw was Gabi's Rudolph she made earlier in the day. Better luck next time, fellas.

Prairie Heights JV Invitational

Today was Tyler's first wrestling tournament of the year. It was individual competition rather than team so Tyler went 130 lbs (one out of 4 that went that weight). He did excellent - he exceeded our expectations of a comeback! He wrestled three times. He teched his first competitor from Northridge (15-0) and pinned the following two (one from Prairie Heights and one from DeKalb County (I think)). We had to wait a round because he had a bye and he was ready for his last match, only to find out (2 hour round and 1/2 hour wait till his bout) that the team had already left the tournament. Tyler won by forfeit. Oh well, we were so proud of him. Coming back from a hard season last year (broken ankle/leg) and working all summer long, he couldn't have given us a better show! Thanks to maw maw, paw paw and uncle Dave who all were able to come watch and support. I was disappointed, however, that the quality of my photos were not the best. I guess it's that switching from football (outside shots) to wrestling (gymnasium shots) that is hard. I'll get the hang of it though. Here are some shots from today...

Holiday Shopping Frustration So Soon!

Yes, it has begun. I saw a digital frame at Meijer in one of their recent ads - regular $59.99 with $30 off coupon on a certain date (Thursday). Well, I thought this would be a good gift for my parents to give me and mentioned it to them. Since my mom is unable to leave the daycare during the day I made my way to Meijer to purchase it. I called about 45 minutes prior to leaving and they had 3 left. So, I get there and all 3 have been sold. Well, the lady at the counter kindly calls the next closest Meijer and they say they are just putting out their last 5. I then make my way out of Meijer (after picking up some groceries - probably not even 30 minutes later) and I decide to call the Meijer just to be sure they are still there so I don't waste my time and fuel. Surprise, surprise, all 5 that were just put out have been sold. I decide to call the other two Meijers (both about 40 minutes away), only because I am on a mission now...they have both sold out as well. FRUSTRATING to say the least. A good deal passed up.

On a good note...picked up two Christmas gifts today (for Gabi) - both 1/2 off. My Christmas shopping has officially begun. Also, Tyler's first wrestling tournament tomorrow. I should have lots of pics to post. Good luck Tyler!

Hear Yoshi Talk!

I finally got a pretty decent film of our talking parakeet, Yoshi. We got him (yes, he is male) right before Gabi was born...I'd say February 0f 2000. He was a baby, my mom and I had to hand feed him for a few days. In this short video Yoshi tweets a bit (admiring himself - haha), says, "PJ" (our daschund who passed on), tweets, says "PJ" again, tweets, says "Yoshi, pretty bird, pretty yoshi," tweets, says "Maizy" (our current lab), tweets, says "Maizy" again and then tweets again. Yoshi also says, "Tyler," "Gabi," "Trenton," and "bless you" - all words he hears quite often. We love having Yoshi - he's such a unique parakeet.

American Girl

Gabi has found a new found love for her American Girl doll that she got for her birthday last year. That following Christmas (last Christmas) I got her a night gown that matched her doll but it was way too big. We decided to get it out a couple of nights ago and lo and behold, it is just a little long, but manageable. She had fun dressing her doll up just like her. They looked very "old timey" - and cute!

OMG Practice

Yesterday the boys came in from practice looking like death warmed over. Trenton had a black eye and the whole other side of his face was red, he had some bumps on the back of his head and to top it, his hand was all swollen up - thinking it was broke (confirmed today it is probably not but we have an x-ray order in case it doesn't get better in next day or so). Tyler had a black eye (from a previous practice) and the other side of his face was black and blue as well. A big knot on the back of his head too. Both boys' hair was drenched, their clothes damp and they looked terrible. We had heard of these dreadful "oh my god" practices but the boys had never experienced one, till now. "Intense" is all they had to say. 60 minutes of non stop wrestling and taking it to one another and then running and drilling. The signature OMG song they go to is "Sandstorm" (played over and over again). Trenton said the minute his coach turned it on, they all knew. It was rough - some may disagree as to the type of practice, but I myself, think it makes them tough and makes their endurance even better. It works for the team...helps them become state champs.
Correction from last post...I didn't make any hot tea...even better option...I drove to Starbucks on my way to get Gabi and got myself a Venti Caramel Macchiato (the best drink ever)!!!!
Yummy!!!
Relaxing evening last night...Tyler spent time with Marissa at her house and Trenton hung out playing guitar hero with his wrestling buddies. Both were in bed, asleep by 11:30 pm. They were tuckered! Today we are just taking it easy again...watching some football and relaxing. Go Irish! ; )

TGIF

We have been busy this week...as you can tell by my blogging...I have fallen behind somewhat.
Monday we had a wrestling meeting and Amber graciously accepted the chance of watching Gabi for us while we did that - thanks, Amber ; )
Tuesday the kids had half a day, so of course, that always makes the day go by quicker than usual. Wednesday I did circle time (as I do each week) for a couple of hours. That evening was the football banquet. Tyler made us proud...got to stand up with the football players who made high honor roll and I was glad to see they acknowledged that. We believe and hope that will continue for him. They gave out some awesome awards to the varsity team, including an MVP award that was the player's actual helmet, all shined up and lacquered...attached to a wooden plaque with little wood letters explaining the award and sporting their name, number and position. It was VERY cool!
In the midst of all the appointments we had, I have been working very hard on my claim for work (always bogs me down the first couple of weeks of the month)...but I can say, I have finally finished the claim (12:15 pm on Friday) and I can take a deep breath and relax...or can I? I know it seldom happens around here...but I think I will...make some hot tea, sit on the couch and read a magazine I got in the mail (I think it's Pottery Barn, not sure, just something to look at). Might even start making some Christmas lists...YIKES! I'll do better at posting next week, hopefully.

Wrestling season begins

Can you believe it is wrestling season again, already? Cuts were made this past week and both boys made the team at school. As far as JV/Varsity...yet to be determined. We are assuming one on JV, one on Varsity - so needless to say and with this being the case, we have a busy schedule ahead of us. Here is the schedule. Looking forward to a fun and exciting wrestling season! Below...new shoes (exact ones) the boys have ordered for the new year...Trenton chose Rulons (gray and orange) and Tyler chose Caels 3.0 (black and silver) - VERY COOL!

A Year Already

Can you believe I have been blogging for a year now?!! I ask myself...why do I do it...well, to keep everyone informed on special things that happen with us, for entertainment, but I think most importantly, for the memories...maybe this blog will be kept in "internet space" for a long while...for the kids to eventually find, as they are surfing the internet or whatever they have in the future...10, 20 years from now. I even find it fun to go back and look at what has happened this past year...to remember. I can only imagine how neat it would be for the kids to find this many years later...it would have been very cool to have the internet when my parents were raising me. Anyways, in honor of my anniversary date blogging...please leave me a comment on what you think of my blog or even what entry this past year is your favorite and why...I'd love to see what you think! Take time to surf through my blog and enjoy!!!

Pen Pals and Buggies

Went to Gabi's fall party this afternoon to celebrate with the class. They also had a party with their pen pals they have been writing to from Orchard View Elementary in Goshen. Gabi's pen pal is Korie and she is in the second grade. When describing the other kids from this school she mentioned some were ones that "go in the buggies." It took me a minute, but said, "oh, you mean, Amish..." How cute! Had lots of fun at her fall party...made foam bookmarks with their names and fall pictures (turkeys, pumpkins, etc.) and had snacks (water bottles, apple slices and cupcakes). Fun!

Idol Funny

How funny was Survivor last night! After that shady challenge a couple of weeks ago where Jaime and PG threw the challenge to get rid of either James or Aaron (ended up being Aaron)...Jaime all smug and laughing as she is doing it. Well, I have been a fan of James since the show began so I was excited when Todd gave James the immunity idol (but James didn't have to use it because Jaime and PG decided not to throw the challenge last week). Well, lo and behold, James found the other immunity idol at his camp this week so now he has two! Jaime ends up taking the one end of the immunity idol (that is no good) and thinks it is the idol! HA HA!!! James was thinking this was hilarious too...how badly I wanted them to vote out Jaime so she'd look like an idiot when she tried to use it - and that's what happened!!! It was GREAT! I have to say I am still rooting for James at this point but the preview shows Todd starting to get antsy, turning, and wanting to get rid of James next week out of fear. I am not a huge fan of Todd - he seems to be too controlling at this point, he thinks he is directing the whole game plan...I think this will be his downfall though. I do not like PG or Jean Robert...I do, however, have a liking for Frosti. At this point, he is voting with the powerhouse alliance and staying under the radar...he may go pretty far. Anxious to see next week.

Happy Halloween!

We took Gabi trick or treating last night and she got so much candy we just don't know what to do with it all! We only took her around our one circle and her bucket was full. We came back at about 6 pm - grabbed some dinner that was in the oven (chili mac), checked out the candy she got and headed out to visit family. We stopped at Chad and Amber's first to see Presley and Addy. Unfortunately, Addy wasn't feeling well so she was in bed. Presley was a very cute Jo Jo. Afterwards, we headed over to maw maw and paw paw's house. They had already given the kids their treats but Gabi wanted to show off her costume. Last stop was over to Ben's dad's house to visit with Uncle Dave, grandpa, Uncle Jeff, Aunt Pam and see Bren. He was an adorable dragon. We got our treats there and visited for a while...nice visits to say the least. Tyler went over to Marissa's house to trick or treat after wrestling practice but I guess it rained in Granger so they only hit one house. I think they just wanted to enjoy each other's company more than anything. Trenton opted for an evening at home relaxing...he has a bit of a virus...cough, sore throat. Took him to the doctor yesterday and she decided no antibiotic would work on this virus. He will have to wait it out. Lots of rest and relaxation for him. He didn't mind. Trenton had some homework anyways. All in all, a nice Halloween...not too cold, not too hot...no rain and it was nice to visit with family, even if it was quick. Thanks for the treats everyone!

Carving

Last night Tyler and Gabi carved their pumpkins (Ben and Trenton went hunting). They both opted to carve faces rather than any fancy template. I like that...shows some personality! Every one of my kids loved cleaning them out and playing in the slop more than making the face anyhow! Also, loving the beautiful sweater maw maw and paw paw got for Gabi from Justice - early Halloween present. She was proud to wear it this morning!