New Sport

Can you figure out Gabi's new interest....and something we may sign her up for in the fall????

Chicken Kabobs

So I tried a new recipe Friday night...and it was a big hit at our house! Gabi helped put them together, therefore, more apt to try something different. She tried all the ingredients...even the peppers! I was impressed!

Field Day

I was able to go help out at Field Day at Gabi's school this morning. It was awesome!!! Lots of blow ups to play and jump on, a velcro blow up, a snow cone station, facepainting, lots of games such as Volleyblast (toss a water balloon between teams with towels used by partners), tug of war, relay games, a sunflower seed spitting contest, a water balloon toss, and a DJ to set the mood for the kids. Heard lots of Hannah Montana, YMCA, Jonas Brothers and other fun songs that Gabi loves. It was an eventfilled morning! My baby girl is officially a third grader!! And she could not be more excited that school is out for the summer!!!!

Summer plans for her...to name a few - pom camp, prairie camp and lots of playtime with friends. I am sure we'll be posting as they happen. It was a beautiful morning...sun out here and there-just enough cloud cover to keep us from burning, comfortable temps of about 70 degrees or so...now it's getting breezy, I think the rains a comin. Happy Summer Break!!!

This boy...

...is officially a Senior! Can't believe it, honestly, can't believe how the time has flown by. I wish I could put time in a bottle because I miss the old days of watching him run around singing "Layla" by Eric Clapton without missing a word , days where I would watch him fight his NWA wrestlers in his wrestling ring, days where I would dress him as a Ninja Turtle or a Power Ranger for Halloween, days where he would get all excited to see me walk into the school to eat lunch with him or be so excited to show me off at classroom parties, days where we would watch Trenton in the outfield dancing and playing in the rocks on third base as the hitter passed him up during the teeball game, days of watching him curl up with his yellow blankie asleep from being such a busy body all day...now we move on to days of scheduling Senior portraits, filling out college applications, planning a graduation party, SATs....days of preparing for his future of leaving the nest. I am pretty sure this will be a year of many mixed emotions for Ben and I both...bittersweet. Yikes...not so sure I am ready for this...

Mascara

Just tried this product. The best mascara I have used thus far! Lovin it!!!

Lilacs

This is a post where I wish we could attach a "scratch and sniff" sticker and you could actually smell the post. Lilacs. A flower that brings so many memories of grandma Miller. Just the smell. She used to have lilac bushes at her house and the smell would just radiate the entire house in the summer with the windows open. Memories...funny how smells can trigger them : )

So...since I have some bushes outside my front door I snipped a few blooms and brought them inside to smell...and remember...

Happy Memorial Day!

Arcade Gold

Ben brought this home from the store last week! Remember those awesome games when we were kids...pac man, dig dug, and galaxian??? Well, this little thing brings them all home and it only requires the contoller and one wire! Easy to take along anywhere and easy for Gabi to play too. I'm lovin this! Probably because it's the only thing I can beat Ben at (Pac Man) and he hates it ; )

This Guy Can Dance

I have to tell you, with as much reality tv I watch normally, I have never gotten into "So You Think You Can Dance." I guess just because it runs in the summertime and we are outside most of the time and don't really watch as much television. Anyways, I caught the last end of the show last night and I was amazed at this guy!
Check it out!

And I have to say I was soooo glad that David Cook won American Idol! I was a little worried considering David A. brought in alot of younger votes but needless to say, they are both very good singers, but David Cook certainly deserved to win.

I LOVE sales!

In a previous post I mentioned a rip stick...well, at every other Wal Mart in the area, besides the one on Ireland in South Bend...they are $77.77! The one on Ireland...$40! Reason? Because they have been in stock for a quite a long time there. Wow! Couldn't resist getting Trenton one at that price (with an IOU of couse ; ) )
Anyways, want a rip stick? Go to the Wal Mart on Ireland!!!

Presley is Three!

Happy Birthday to my beautiful niece, Presley! Many exciting things happening to her in just the past few weeks...including getting a new baby sister!

We love you, kiddo!

Wheels

Last night...while watching American Idol and just before this commercial...
Gabi to me - "I love this commercial mom! I would love to roller skate like them."

Tyler also was able to get his long anticipated Rip Stick. The boys' new pasttime.

30 Minutes

....of running today. It was tough but I did it and I felt good afterwards! I was running about a 12 minute mile. I used to be able to run 3 miles in 30 minutes so I am not doing too bad. Probably a few more weeks of conditioning and I will be good to go. A little sore but not bad. I even indulged myself today...one of these from Starbucks. SOOOO GOOOOD!

Golf Outing

I have to say this weekend was a busy, but successful, weekend. I have been heading up the First Annual Mishawaka Wrestling Club Golf Outing (here) for about 2 months now with another mom. It has certainly kept me very busy. Because it was the first one I was nervous about the turnout. In fact, only a week ago we had 5 paid teams (and we had been wanting at least 18)! And to top it off on Monday the forecast was showing rain for Saturday. I was scared it was going to be a flop. Things seemed better when we ended up having 15 paid teams and 3 not paid teams by Wednesday. I was still nervous the weather would keep the non paid teams away. By Friday the forecast had changed...a slight chance of showers in the early morning on Saturday, windy and sunny by the afternoon. I was feeling better but still nervous. Saturday did turn out well and we ended up with 18 teams and about 15 hole sponsors! It was a big success. Parents showed up with goodies just like they were asked and we had so much fun! In fact, we are looking forward to next year's event!!! I could not be more proud of our success. Big smiles for Saturday : )

Favorite Season

Gabi's class published a book called "Our Four Favorite Seasons." Here is Gabi's submission -first one in the book and she was so proud...how cute!

State Rings

Had a great evening last night. We were invited to a dinner hosted by Mishawaka High School in honor of the wrestling team. The state rings were to passed out to all of the wrestlers. The city council, school representatives, coaches, wrestlers and their families were in attendance. On the menu...salad, rolls, chicken cordon bleu, mashed potatoes, corn and macaroni and cheese. For dessert - white cake with raspberry filling and chocolate cake. Riverside Terrace was a beautiful place. The Superintendant of Schools, School District President, The Principal of Mishawaka High School, The Athletic Director and Coach Snyder all had nice words about our wrestling team. The rings were absolutely beautiful, but I guess I can't really say that because it's a guy thing. They are very "cool." ; )
The 24 wrestlers who weighed in for team state also got a replica of the signs placed throughout the city but their name and weight class was added. Neat idea. I know the boys can't wait to put them up in their new rooms. Ended the evening with a highlight video of team state...awesome! I hope Mr. Trtan puts it on Youtube. If he does, I will most definitely share. All in all, a nice evening. A great ending to an awesome season!

Tadpoles!

Gabi got this for Christmas this year but wasn't able to get tadpoles because of weather and shipping, etc. It has been too cold. Well, we finally got two today! They should grow into these when all said and done. I got the habitat all ready and placed the tadpoles in. We will see how this goes...should be fun.

On a sidenote...today was a hard day running. 9 minutes running/1 minute walking (repeat two more times). Roughest yet but felt good afterwards.

Mother's Day

Dreary day...rainy, dark and cold but I was able to enjoy the day with family and of course, my children. We had our annual get together at my parents' house with lots of yummy food...I made my famous hash brown casserole (mom R's recipe) to share, in fact, I made 2 big pans and none was left. We also had barbeque ribs and chicken, noodles, pasta salad, baked beans, strawberry jello, watermelon, chips and fiesta dip, angel food cake with strawberries and pies. Everyone on my mom's side showed up. It was nice to visit with everyone. I have to say I was excited to see baby Reese again.

My mom asked me to do the same as I did last year for Mother's Day...to plant flowers in all of her flower pots. I happily obliged and got all the flowers from here. I did two big white pots with alot of different colors and types of flowers (I call it a butterfly collection) and 3 smaller pots (1 with yellow and orange mums and 2 with pink geraniums).

My boys went in together to get me a gift card to one of my favorite stores. I was very impressed and touched that they went and got this for me by themselves. I appreciated the act more than the gift itself! Gabi made me a very nice hotpad at school. She was very proud.

To all the moms reading this...I hope you had a wonderful Mother's Day! May God bless you daily.

And one of my favorite mother's day poems...here.

New Phone

Got this phone on the "new every two" plan from Verizon. So far I am loving it cuz I love to text : )
Off to get Mother's Day gifts...beautiful day today, hearing it may not be so beautiful tomorrow though {sigh}

Week 3 - Running

For all of those wondering (along with my hubby who keeps me in check), yes I am still running. Third week down!!! 8 minutes running, 2 minutes walking (repeat two more times) was the schedule for this past week. After another week of walking/running combo, I will be running for a full 30 minutes again. My goal after that will be 3 miles in 30 minutes. I can honestly say I feel healthier now. I forgot just how much running relieves stress and I have had quite a bit lately. It helps.
So much going on.
...I have been heading up the Mishawaka Wrestling Club Golf Outing which is next weekend.
...Getting camp fees paid - option camp for football
...Figuring out summer jobs for Trenton - he got rehired at the golf course! So happy about that!
...Writing donation letters for Team Indiana
...Looking at possible summer vacation ideas - probably Cedar Point or somewhere close
...Figuring out summer camp (Iowa Wrestling trip and a team wrestling camp in Central Michigan) schedule for the boys
...Getting Gabi signed up for Prairie Camp and Pom Pom camp at school
and last but not least,
...Finishing our new house and hopefully moving soon
It's gonna be a busy summer....

New Baby Cousin

Here she is...Reese Sydney Brugh - the new little addition. Welcome, Reese! We love you!

Ben

Happy Birthday to my best friend and husband...
I love you with all my heart!

Freestyle State Continued

Tyler finished out the day on Sunday morning after his first match and second loss. It was sad to see him lose but we were very excited that he placed 7th. A HUGE accomplishment, considering last year freestyle state was his comeback from a broken ankle and he went two and out. You can certainly see a difference in his wrestling abilities this year! Trenton started out on Sunday morning against Ryan Stahl...remember this from folkstyle state. This time, Ryan won the first period, Trenton won the second and Trenton ended up winning 1-0 the last period, thus winning the match! We were very excited. Trenton continued his winning streak until his second to last match. He lost to Vitirisi (got first place) and Wodjyla for 2nd place, therefore, putting him in the third place this year. He made Team Indiana again! Folkstyle results are here from this year. Freestyle results posted here. So proud of both of the boys this year! Pictures here.

Freestyle State

Just completed the first rounds of Freestyle State this morning. Tyler is a cadet and wrestled this morning and then again tomorrow. Trenton is a Junior and only wrestles tomorrow. Tyler went 135 lbs. this weekend and so far is 3-1. We believe he is placing in the top 8 anyways, since he will continue tomorrow. Will update then...
Until then...enjoying the pool in the hotel, doing some shopping and grabbing a bite to eat for dinner.

She's Here!

My new niece arrived on April 30th at 7:12 pm. Got to meet her that same evening and she is adorable! Named after my dad : )
Details here.
More pics of the kids holding her to come.

Anticipation

Waiting for the new little addition to our family...Amber is set to have her next little girl, in fact, she is due today. She got some good news yesterday at her doctor's appointment though! We are excited to meet the new baby!!!

Starry Starry Night - Prom 2008

Trenton had Prom last night and he had a blast! Started out at Shiojiri Gardens in Merrifield Park to take photos of the Elizabeth and Trenton. Both the families participated in the photograph taking and we caught some great ones! Elizabeth's family - including her mom, her dad, her step mom, her step sister and her step brother and grandparents, all made it. My parents, Ben's dad, Pam and Bren all got to stop by for a looksy as well. Lots of couples there but I think we had perfect timing as it was getting terribly crowded as we made our way to the next stop, a friends house to get with their group. Abby lives on the river with her dad so we were able to catch some good photos there also. From there we made our last stop to Battell Park for group photos in the gazebo and along the rocks. Beautiful lighting and weather...it could have been a tad warmer but it wasn't bad. Check out all the pictures here.

Trenton's plans included dinner here. Ben and I were baffled by the choice since some of them were dressed in white! Oh well, I guess it ended up okay. The dance started at 8 pm and ended at midnight. Trenton then went to a friends house for an after prom get together. I felt comfortable with his surroundings so I felt good about the night. The Mishawaka Wrestling Club put on a dinner dance at Merrifield in one of the club houses as well so Ben and I got to go and relax a bit there. Tyler got the wonderful job of babysitting : )

This morning Trenton, Elizabeth, Tim and Alex are off to their last destination included in after Prom activities. They tossed around other ideas...the beach (too cold), Kings Island (too far) but finally settled on this. We'll see how it goes. I am anxious to hear if it is neat or not. All in all, I think he had a great time. They certainly made a beautiful couple!

Redd

Marissa (Tyler's gf) has been riding her horse almost every day after school to get ready for the fair. Tyler had plans to hang at her house this evening so Marissa invited us to come out and ride with her for a little while (since we were unable to find a place to ride horses in NC). We gladly accepted. Ben, Tyler, Gabi and I got to ride Redd. Definitely windy outside but Redd did a great job of allowing us to bother her for a little while, and she is a beautiful horse. Thanks, Marissa and Redd!

One Week Down

Yay! I completed my first week of running (see previous post). Sore, as expected, but not too bad because I started out slowly. I am proud that I have completed the week. Started slowly on Monday but I forgot how good it feels to run and relieve some stress. It got better and it felt good!

Soo excited to see blooming flowers and budding leaves on the trees. The grass is green, the birds are singing. Spring is here! Not excited that it is supposed to dip down to 30 for a low next week. : (

Looking forward to this weekend...a big event!

Event - "Starry Starry Night" Prom

Who - Trenton and Elizabeth (his gf now for about a month or so)

Details and pics to come!

Out of Retirement

Yep, as I stated earlier, I have started running. Started yesterday. Have to start slowly and I follow a schedule from a Running Book that I love. It helps prevent shin splints...something I had when I had originally started running and I absolutely HATED! They hurt terribly and you actually have to stop running for quite some time to heal. I just remember having to ice my shins after everytime I walked or ran. It stinks. But I have learned.
I actually started at week three from my book though since I am in somewhat good shape...
Here is the schedule
Week 3 Run 6 minutes, Walk 4 minutes, Repeat 2 more times
Week 4 Run 7 minutes, Walk 3 minutes, Repeat 2 more times
Week 5 Run 8 minutes, Walk 2 minutes, Repeat 2 more times
Week 6 Run 9 minutes, Walk 2 minutes, Repeat once more, Run 8 minutes
Week 7 Run 9 minutes, Walk 1 minute, Repeat 2 more times
Week 8 Run 13 minutes, Walk 2 minutes, Repeat once more
Week 9 Run 14 minutes, Walk 1 minute, Repeat once more
Week 10 Run 30 minutes
We'll see how it goes.... : )

"Grandpa's House"

Had a good time over at Dad R's house with the kids last night. Ben was able to take off a few hours early to go fishing with his dad. Something they enjoy doing together on their birthdays. Since it was beautiful outside, yesterday was the perfect opportunity. We met at the house around 7 pm with Dave, Jeff, Pam and Bren. Pam made a DELICIOUS cake and we brought strawberry and cookie dough ice cream (Edy's). It was all yummy! All the kids (Ben, Jenny, Dave and Pam) got together to get dad this for his birthday. He was very excited considering it was the one he liked the best out of the ones he looked at. It will go nice in his new truck he got recently. Had fun watching Bren enjoy the nice weather...he likes to be barefoot like some other little girl I know...huh hmmm....Gabi. He sure is growing fast and his hair with the slight curls is just adorable. What a ham!

Earthquake in Indiana?

That's right...this morning, I was half asleep/half awake because my stomach was feeling a little sour and I just couldn't get comfortable. The time was about 5:35 am and Ben had left for work probably 30 minutes earlier. I heard the dresser drawers rattling, heard some rumbling and Maizy got up and acted like she just couldn't get comfortable at that point. Thoughts in my head were the possibility of a train and at some time I guess I had thought it could have been an earthquake, but then totally dismissed that one. Only lasted a few minutes but I was shocked when I got up for the morning and my mom asked me, "did you feel the earthquake?"
This earthquake measured like 5.2 and originated in Illinois. Trenton seemed to know a little about the origin point...said they had discussed it in school and it has been predicted to happen, except the prediction was more of a disaster type earthquake. Interesting.

I guess with the weather being 80 one day and 30 the next in Indiana...nothing surprises me in this state anymore.

Happy Birthday, Dad R!

Happy birthday to this man!!! A wonderful father and loving grandpa...can't ask for much more. Footloose and fancy free - enjoying his retirement as of lately. We hope he is having a wonderful day! Lots of love from us!

Reality TV

I have to admit I am a junkie to reality tv - Survivor, American Idol and Biggest Loser has been my favorites as of lately. Did you see the finale of Biggest Loser Couples last night and how much these people have lost! It is truly inspiring. Ben laughs because I actually feel for these people and listening to their stories...maybe because I am a woman and I know how hard it is to be accepted weight wise. It's tough being a girl now a days. Ben has a totally different outlook...his feeling - don't let yourself get that way to begin with. I was taken back by Ali this sesason...check out her before and after photos.

Regardless, this show has inspired me to start running again. Yes, I will sadly admit those running shoes I got back in December for my resolution have yet to be used. I will let you know how I hold up this time.

And American Idol...if David Cook doesn't win the show, I can almost guarantee he will be heard on the radio. That man is an amazing song artist. He can take a song and rearrange it to another likeable song. He's good. My favorite one that he did so far...here. I am rooting for him all the way. His favorite bad audition happens to be this one from last season...my all time favorite so far also! Funny!

Survivor...haven't caught the last couple of shows but I am liking the fact that Ozzy and the gravedigger, James are still there. I liked them on the first seasons they aired. Ozzy just seems like a survivor type, one that could live no matter what the circumstances and James because he is just really nice and seems real. I am rooting for both of them.

Spring Break in the Mountains

We were so lucky to be able to travel to Mars Hill, North Carolina to visit Ben's grandparents and other family over spring break. We left Monday morning around 5 am and made it to grandma's house at around 3 pm...What a vacation! We didn't do much of anything but visit, enjoy the sights and relax but it was well worth the trip. Tyler was able to help drive us this year which was a blessing (Trenton forgot his license back at home on accident). This enabled Tyler to get some freeway practice in.

Monday - As soon as we got to grandma's house we visited for a few minutes, ate some homecooked food that grandma always has waiting or us - meatloaf, chicken, corn, mashed potoatoes, applesauce, and her famous biscuits, and headed up into the mountain behind her house. The boys were anxious to find a vine to swing on and they did. A big one. That kept them entertained the rest of the day. Gabi and I had fun watching and trying it out ourselves. Grandpa made his way over to grandma's house and we were greeted with lots of hugs and kisses. That evening we made our way to grandpa's house to see Sharon and see the new addition to his family ... a horse named Cocoa and a couple of dogs, Curly and Mo, two rat terriers (Gabi took a good liking to Mo and Cocoa). Grandpa keeps Curly in the house because that dog adores him so much. It was funny to see them bond the way they do. Also saw some of his chickens, of course. He doesn't have as many as he used to, but the ones he has are gorgeous.

Tuesday - We made our way over to Aunt Betty's house (grandma's sister in law - her brother Aaron passed) and got to visit with cousin Loretta and her 4 year old twin sons. They gave us a show on the guitars. We also visited with Aunt Alma (grandma's sister) and got to see her goats and kitties. The boys had a fun time trying to catch one...Ben eventually did and Gabi just squawked because she thought he was hurting it when it cried. It was a fun time. We made our way up to Buckner Branch - a big piece of land that grandma inherited and loves. Lots of branch lettuce (a southern food they love), compete with beautiful rocks and lots of fresh springs. We chose some pretty rocks to bring home and use as a display at our new house. Grandma also showed us the old cabin that her parents had when she was a kid. Always so neat to see. Old signs still hanging on the wall from when she was a kid, etc. So cool to see how they used to live. Grandma also told us she contacted Nestle about the spring water and they contacted her about 2 weeks after she wrote a letter. They asked her to send a few bottles of the water to be tested and they told her that the water was full of vitamins, etc. It could be an option to get water from there some day. I thought that was a neat story. We stopped in also at Wolf Laurel - an upper class community in the hills to see if the horseback riding was open and unfortunately, it was not. We were able to see the awesome big homes they built in that area and knowing our family had owned some of that land at one time was mind boggling. Such beautiful country.

Wednesday - Tyler was able to try some chocolate gravy, courtesy of grandma and he loved it! In fact, we all tried some and agreed it was not nearly what we thought it would taste like. A good breakfast. We got to visit with Aunt Boots. She had chemotherapy the day before so it wasn't a good time for her but she was able to come over to grandma's house for a short visit on Wednesday. It was so nice to see her and Uncle Bob. They brought a couple of pillows for Gabi to use in her "new" bedroom. How sweet. They both looked well and it was a good visit. We decided to go into town later in the afternoon (after a couple of short naps and walks through the mountain behind grandma's house) to Mars Hill College. I had told Ben I would like a shirt from there. They had some good sales going on and we got some deals (I got myself a shirt). The boys picked up a sweatshirt for their girlfriends, they each got a mechanical pencil and a pen and Gabi also got a sweatshirt. We had a little bit of time so we headed to Burnsville to look at a gift store (Tyler wanted to get a shot glass for his gf because she collects them) so we rode out there - about a 20 minute drive. Picked up a shot glass and started our way back to grandpa's house for dinner. Had a wonderful dinner there with him and Sharon. We had roast, mashed potatoes, "leather britches" (which we tried for the first time), baked beans, biscuits, mac and cheese, broccoli/rice/cheese casserole, beets, onions, a rum cake, etc. A true southern meal and it was delicious. We enjoyed the stay at grandpa's. We got to see Cocoa again...this horse he bought at an auction because he used to ride horses when he was little. Well, this horse won't go near anyone...anyone that is except Gabi. We found out that this horse really took a liking to her and it was sooooo sweet to see this horse follow her around the yard and allow her to pet him and talk to him. Amazing really, knowing this horse wouldn't let us come near him without a sugar cube. If we had a place to keep it, Ben said he would load that horse up and take it home for Gabi.

Thursday - We didn't do much of anything all morning but enjoy the beautiful weather. It was in the upper 60's all week and sunny. We just really soaked in the sights and sounds of spring. The boys made Gabi a barn swing and they enjoyed their vine swing as well. Such simple things that kept them busy. Grandpa made it over by early afternoon for a visit again and we just sat and listened to his stories from when he was a kid. Ben and I vowed to bring a video camera, put it on grandma and grandpa both, and just let them talk about when they were kids. Oh, how I wish I could have lived back then...Times have sure changed. Grandpa shared a story about how he used to play for a local baseball team when he was a teen. He made $20 if he won and $12 if he lost. Grandpa could sure pitch! We visited with Aunt Alma again and was able to see her sons, Owen (his wife breeds dogs - see their website here) and his wife, Joan and son, Zach and Alma's other son, Randall. A nice visit before heading to grandpa's for one last time. Grandpa shared some of his favorite candy when we got there...horehound. Wasn't bad. I found it so interesting - seeing, tasting and learning about all the different foods they like to eat - some from the very earth itself. Branch lettuce - boiled up and served with bacon grease is supposedly the best. Haven't tried it, but I am sure I will sometime I go to NC again. They also talked highly of ramps - similar to garlic and served with potatoes or eggs. Very interesting to say the least. Gabi found it sad to say goodbye to the animals that had really gotten attached to her.

Friday - Grandpa made it over to grandma's house to say goodbye at about 6 am and we headed out of town. We had beautiful weather the whole week...not a lick of rain. Good times, great weather...sad to have to leave.

We made our way up north and began seeing signs for Ripley's Aquarium in Gatlinburg area and on the spur of the moment...decided to take a detour. Purchased tickets to see the aquarium - which was absolutely stunning. Great place to see! We also went to the Ripley's Believe it or Not Museum and the Moving Theatre (Trenton's choice). The latter were okay, probably not worth the money but certainly enjoyed the aquarium and would love to come back to Dollywood and Pigeon Forge when we have more time. It's a neat little town. Got back on the road by 3 pm and back at home today. It was a great spring break! Fun, Family, Food! Couldn't ask for much more.

Enjoy LOTS of pics here.
Video of catching the goat
Video of swinging on the vine

Beautiful Spring Day

While the boys were away at a tournament I was able to get alot together for our trip to NC. Gabi and I did manage to get Maizy out and head for the park though to enjoy the beautiful spring weather (lower 60s today)...Gabi couldn't wait to go without socks - she loves her flip flops!

It's so nice to see the sun! Happy Spring! More pictures here from our visit from the park and the beautiful flowers as a gift from my hubby : )

Yorktown

Trenton and Tyler went to Yorktown High School for an ISWA tournament today with coach, some parents and quite a few other wrestlers from Young and Mishawaka. Ben and I opted to stay back to get ready for our trip to NC and Ben had to work this morning. Both boys went 140 lbs. Trenton was Junior 140 and Tyler was Cadet 140. We kept up to date by corresponding with Lisa Sandefer. Trenton got first place and Tyler got second. From what we heard they did very well. We were excited for them. I know they are tired though, both getting up at 5 am, the 3 hour drive and the long day (finished at around 4 pm). They will be glad to see the bed.

Closed In

Yes, our house, that is. The roof is up and the framing inside is being done. Some of the plumbing and heating has been run as well. Things are moving fast! First pic...bathtub in the kids bathroom, Second pic...deck from the sliding glass door, Third pic...front of house, Fourth pic...shower in master bath, Fifth pic...where the fireplace will go, Sixth pic...deck off back of house.

On the campaign trail

I had the awesome privilege to see Hillary Clinton today at Mishawaka High School. It was a packed house by 10:00 am - just 45 minutes before Sean Astin took the stage to introduce Senator Hillary Clinton. It was cool to listen to the Senator's views, concerns and plans if she becomes President. I really enjoyed the fact she took some questions. Here are a few things she explained that I liked....

* She would get rid of the "No Child Left Behind" program
* She would like to lower percentage rates on college loans and if the student decided to go into a community service job, the loan would be forgiven

* She would bring the troops home from Iraq

* She would redo NAFTA

* She believes in "God Bless America" and endorses that saying

* She would create new jobs in America

* She would allow every American the opportunity to have health care

* She wants to give young people the comforts of knowing social security will be there for them one day

It was definitely worth going to listen. I also came home to look up info on the internet...check it out if you don't know who you are voting for or have any questions when it comes to comparing our candidates. Who knows, I could have been a part of history today...seeing the first female President in person?????? Pictures from her presentation and appearance here.

American Idol...How am I doing with my picks?

For the guys...not so bad. As you can see, this is what I thought originally. Michael, David and Jason are the only two left of my picks and they really aren't even my favorites after watching and listening for the past few weeks. I would have to say my absolute favorite is David Cook. He has taken risks and turned original songs into his own versions and they have worked for him time after time. I really like him. I am still rooting for Michael (who sang well this past week) and Jason (although I think he will go soon) and David (may be too young, but I could be wrong). I am saying though the top two men at this point are the two Davids. They could win. This is what I thought about the girls. Ramiele and Syesha are the only two left. I am absolutely still rooting for them both but I really think Ramiele is the strongest girl at this point. She can sing well. I still like Syesha and I am enjoying Brooke more and more each week as well. She has a different voice and I like it. I am still saying Ramiele has the best chance of becoming the American Idol. If I had to choose one guy and one girl I would choose Ramiele and David Cook. We'll see what happens.

He is Risen!

Happy Easter! We started our Easter morning with egg/sausage casserole and toast/jelly, coffee, orange juice and apple juice. It was yummy. Gabi got up to find her Easter basket filled with all sorts of cool stuff...new crocs, a stuffed Easter bunny, some magnets she can paint herself and a little tiny stuffed dog complete with a trendy little outfit...not to mention lots of yummy treats. Trenton and Tyler also got up to find their baskets with goodies and some cash (something they are always in need of as of late). Gabi also couldn't wait for us to hide some eggs for her to find and that is what daddy did while mommy cleaned up the kitchen from breakfast. She did well and found all the eggs (with a little bit of help). Trenton was feeling a little better...still had a bit of a head ache but was a trooper and made it to church for the Easter service.

Dinner was great! We had turkey, dressing, broccoli/cheese casserole, noodles, corn and biscuits for lunch - compliments of my parents. It was nice to spend some time with Chad, Amber, Presley and Addy. It seems everyone has been so busy lately that we haven't been able to spend any time together. The kids enjoyed their Easter baskets from maw maw and paw paw and we also had some cake for my mom's belated birthday. Great dinner, mom!

Afterwards, we headed to grandpa's for his annual Easter basket hunt that the kids always look forward to. He even hides the "big kids" - aka mom and dad - Easter baskets. The baskets always come complete with lots of chocolate!!! : )

Unfortunately, we missed aunt Pam, uncle Jeff and Bren but aunt Pam left Gabi some nice jewelry that she passed down to her. Gabi really enjoyed them and had to put a necklace on right away. Thanks aunt Pam!

Pics of our day here.

Now, we are just relaxing...enjoying the down time. We need some R & R.

Happy Easter...He is Risen!

Coloring Eggs

After settling in after wrestling today, we decided to go ahead and color our Easter eggs. Gabi had a blast!
Tyler is off to a party at the Summit club with Marissa and Trenton is sleeping after a rough day.

Wawassee Freestyle

Trenton and Tyler both wrestled at Wawassee today...both at 140 lbs. Trenton wrestled as a junior and Tyler as a cadet, of course. Freestyle is so much different than folkstyle so you'll have to bear with me when it comes to explaining matches, etc.
Tyler placed first today! He was so excited. I got to see his first two matches in which he teched both opponents in the first two periods. His third match was a little tougher. In fact, Ben thought he was in trouble after he lost the first period 0-7. Tyler came back and won though...winning the second and third periods. Tyler's next opponent would be his own team mate and this guy decided he wasn't going to wrestle so he actually forfeited his match to Tyler.


**Can you hear Gabi say "you can do it!" - how sweet!
I have to tell you, though, I missed Tyler's third match because of what happened earlier with Trenton...

Trenton's first match he teched his first opponent (won by 6 points) in the first and second periods. In freestyle you only have to win 2 out of 3 periods to win the whole match. His next opponent was a little more aggressive. Trenton, however, did tech him in the first period but the ref did have to stop the match at one point to settle the kid down a bit. The start of the second period was a little "fast forward" to me...Trenton was keeping up with him but ended up getting hit under his jaw by the other kids' head...really hard. Trenton kind of looked "sick" and fell forward onto the mat losing consciousness for a few seconds. The coaches came to the center of the mat and asked him questions. He remembered names and dates, etc. but could not tell you where he was or what he was doing at the time. In other words, short term memory loss. The EMT that was there checked him out again after Trenton forfeited his match and recommended he be taken to the ER immediately. He also recommended he go by ambulance so IV's, etc. could be started. We agreed, only because he was the professional. Ben stuck it out with Tyler while I went with Trenton to the hospital. They immobilized him on a board and neck restraint until an x-ray and CT scan could be done. Trenton did not like this...it hurt and his head was hurting at this point. They gave him morphine for the pain which quieted him down a bit and was able to get the images completed. The doctor then came in to disuss his findings and luckily showed us he did not have any kind of bleeding from the brain and it was a severe concussion. This meant only time and rest could heal him.

Play Easter

Gabi to me yesterday after school...
"Mommy, do you want to play Easter with me?"
I said, "Play Easter? How do you do that?"
Gabi replies, "I hide the eggs and you find them."
She was the bunny first...then I was the bunny.
Had trouble finding the 15th egg I hid for her...till this morning.

Junior 140 Folkstyle State

Trenton placed fourth for Junior Folkstyle State Finals at 140 lbs. We are very proud of him! The best he has done at a state level ever has been fourth, so this is the second time for him. Trenton got a tough draw off the get go with Ryan Stahl from Elkhart. Trenton had a first round bye and then had Stahl. I always hate it when Trenton has a bye first...he is the one who seems to have a slow going at long tournaments and I would rather him have a first round match then a bye. Trenton got beat by Stahl by 2 points putting him in wrestlebacks, which meant alot more wrestling. With 39 kids in his weight class, this made it all the more worse. His second round was agains Hill from Elkhart - the one who gave Tyler his first varsity loss - remember this. Well, Trenton beat him up pretty bad with a major 14-0. A little payback I guess. Next he had King from Bluffton and won by pinfall. The next kid didn't look like a kid...he looked like a 35 year old man! He wore glasses and was very hairy. This kind of distracted Trenton, because he mentioned it to me several times. Trenton took it to him, though, winning by pinfall again. Next would be Spriggs from Thorntown. This match would take place on Sunday morning because it was so late in the evening (8 pm by now). Sunday came and Trenton beat Spriggs by pinfall first round. Trenton then beat Maxwell from Avon and had Whitlow from Crawfordsville. This kid was not happy when Trenton beat him 11-10. He was throwing all kinds of language out there. It was not a pretty sight. This brought Trenton right back around to Stahl for third place. By this time, Trenton was visibly tired. I know he wanted to beat Stahl this time and looked like he was going to when he got caught and was pinned. Trenton took it well and was happy to place fourth. Pictures here of Trenton.

Cadet 135 Folkstyle State

Tyler got second place at Folkstyle State in his weight class (135 cadet)! We are so excited for him considering this is the best he has done at a state level for club wrestling. He did great! Saturday morning wrestling started at 9 am and Tyler had a first round bye. He then beat a kid from Elkhart 8-0 and then a kid from Leo 4-2 (this kid and his dad were quite the pair...the dad got DQ'd from the tourney because of the mouthing off to the ref while the kid cussed Ben out mat side after he lost to Tyler). This ended the day on Saturday putting Tyler against Sokol from Penn in the semi round for Sunday morning first round. Last time these two met was at Jimtown last weekend. Wrestling didn't end till almost 8 pm that evening. We grabbed some McDonalds and headed back to the hotel where Gabi swam a little while and Tyler relaxed in the hot tub. Both Tyler and Trenton were dead asleep by 9:30 pm. Sunday morning came and Tyler took it to Sokol and won 7-4 this time. This led Tyler to the Championship round against Lynde from Delphi (never heard of this kid). Lynde ended up being a great match. The young man was very built and had quite a bit of muscle over Tyler which gave him the upper hand, unfortunately beating Tyler to give him second place. That's okay. Tyler did well - best he's done at a state level, in fact, the best either of the boys have done at state! We are very proud. Pictures of Tyler here.

Happy Birthday, Mom!

We are sorry we couldn't be with you on your special day but we will celebrate with you next weekend. We love you and appreciate you and your love for us. Happy, Happy Birthday! Enjoy your day!

Do you hear what I hear?

Chirping this morning....early....
I have been hearing this lately (there is a little retention pond near our house)
...and I saw this just this very morning!
Spring is coming, I JUST KNOW IT!