Back to school blues

Thankfully, the Things are doing a pretty good job with heading back to school. And, I'm slowly getting into the groove of the school routine. But today, oh my, I met a little fella who was one unhappy camper. I figure I'm entitled to smile at his misery since most years it is one, if not both of my children crying outside the front of the school.

But, this little boy, hasn't figured out that crying gets you at least sympathy. Nope, this boy was having a full throttle temper tantrum. Don't want to go, not going to make me go. The principal was able to help him work through it and he finally made it back to his class. That's where I met him: I was doing vision checks on his class. He'd calmed down considerably so his teacher suggested I try to screen him as well. All went well with the testing.

And then in my happy mommy voice I said how much fun school can be, how he will make LOTS of friends. With the cynical tone of a grumpy old man he curtly told me "I already have plenty of friends~!"

Somehow I have a feeling that this is not the end of this little boy's back to school blues...

Ah, we made it through the week!

What a hectic week it has been.

Ok, so hectic is probably an exaggeration. But, after the weeks of sheer lazy days, with nothing on the calendar and taking all day to do just as little as possible, the return to school has been a bit busier than any of us are used to.

And it remains hot.

And, I worked this week.

And just as I was starting to whine about being tired from these realities, Friday arrived way too soon for my liking and we had our school's vision/hearing testing today. I head up our school's assessments each year. Ok, so I didn't test them all, but I did coordinate all elements of the process of screening over 300 students. And sadly, that's only half the school. We'll do it all again in September. The things I get myself into...

I'm one worn out Momma that is for sure.

But, that's the bad news around here. The good news is that both Things had a great first week of school. I had good first impressions of the teachers and class mix. As for the vision testing, I had my midlife epiphany this summer (where you go I"m getting too old to play the games and get worked up about the stuff that just doesn't matter) and managed to set some clear boundaries and distance with the school nurse. I kept my sanity and held my tongue through the countless messages she left me, telling me the same things over and over.

So in the end, I'm energized by the thought of a new school year. We may be off to a busy start and our bodies are still adjusting but I'm excited about the newness of it all. Or maybe it isn't excitement and instead, perhaps that margarita finally kicked in...all I know is it is past 5 o'clock here and we made it to the weekend...Lets celebrate!

The Long way round...

As some of you know, Hubby is knee deep into his midlife crisis v2.0 and as a result of this, he's fascinated by anything having to do with motorcycles. Last week, we watched "The World's Fastest Indian". Well, this week he learned about a journey taken by Ewan McGregor and his pal Charlie. Together they rode motorcycles from London to New York, and as the title suggests, they took the long way round. They headed East, traveling through Europe, into Mongolia, up through Siberia before crossing the Bearing Straits and ending up in Alaska. Their journey was filmed and it was shown on Bravo a few years ago. Thankfully the DVD of this show was available from the library and yesterday we sat down to watch it.

I personally have no desire to take such a trip. I admit, I haven't even watched Hubby ride his bike out of the neighborhood. This whole motorcycle concept is something I'm finding myself still getting used to. And, I've already shown you how I "camp" a la condo style. Roughing it for me, means you don't have charmin in the bathroom, instead you are stuck with some no name brand of toilet tissue. So, obviously I wasn't drawn to the "Oh, I so want to do that some day" part of the film.

But these guys made it interesting! You really don't realize how large the world is until you watch a film such as this. I found the travels through Mongolia truly fascinating. The landscape, the people, the lack of "stuff" that we all take for granted. And who knew that roads, even hard packed dirt roads are considered a rare find in some parts of the world? Well, it just was fascinating.

But alas, it is a long movie and last night...I called it a night once they got to Alaska. The scenery in Alaska was enough for me to note that is one place I definetly want to visit before I die. Someday for sure. But it won't be on a motorcycle. Nah, I'm thinking a cruise ship is more my style. And as for Mongolia and Siberia, I'm thinking I will just get my fixes from the big screen...as fascinating as it was, I didn't see any Hiltons or even a Days Inn where I could rest after a hard day of sight seeing.

So, please check out The Long Way Round if you are in the mood for something different to watch as we wait patiently for the heat of summer to fade away and the new tv season starts back up. They guys also wrote a book about their experience which Hubby is reading. I tell you...the man has the motorcycle obsession BAD...

Summoned...

And released, excused or whatever you want to call it! Yahoo! I'm not sure what I put on my questionnaire that they didn't like, but thankfully the service of Juror #43 is not required to report next week.

I wasn't all that thrilled to go in the first place. There never is a convenient time to sit on a jury. I freely admit that I'm opinionated and quick to make a judgment call. Not sure I can be fair and open minded. I sort of feel like even if you didn't do exactly what you are accused of, if you made it THIS far up the legal chain, you've got to be guilty of something.

But, I went. I didn't try to get myself out of serving. I filled out the survey honestly. Well, not totally honest. On the question that asked about being fair and impartial, as tempted as I was to say "my motto is it is a privilege to serve, and an honor to convict", I just left that question blank.

Once I finished my survey, the lady in charge tells us that they had called a large pool (over 120 jurors were summoned for this one case) as they are preparing to seat a jury for a "lengthy and sensitive case".

Yep, thanks for the belated birthday gift Arapahoe County! Nothing about lengthy or sensitive sounded the least bit interesting to me! Of course, given my nature, I'm most curious to find out what high profile case is starting on Tuesday. But, I'll be happy to find out via the local sources and NOT from the seat in the jury box!

My Silver Anniversary...

Yep folks, today is the 25th anniversary of my Sweet 16th Birthday
Or, if you prefer, I'm noting that 20 years ago today, legally I was allowed to drink (I'm thinking that I probably had a sip or two before then but I officially admit to NOTHING!).
And, finally if your caffeine of choice hasn't kicked in yet, I'll give it to you plain and simple: I am 41 today.

And just how do I feel about this? I feel great!

Turning 40 is often considered a big deal. Some folks really struggle with the reality that they are now in the middle age category. They fret about unrealized potential. They mourn the passing of their prime child bearing years. All sorts of emotional stuff can come up around this milestone birthday.

But, for me, not really. This past year I've thought and pondered how I feel about being in my 40s and I keep coming back to a few simple truths...

• I've found myself a great colorist who manages my premature graying with expertise. Yes, hair has become my one consistent beauty splurge. If my hair looks good, I feel great.
• I've surrounded myself with the most awesome posse of gal pals one could ever dream of being blessed with. Some of these pals live around the corner, and some live across the country. Some are family. Some are like family. Yet no matter where they live, I know they are always there for me.
• I've got a great husband. Ok, I admit there are the those days when his greatest talent is annoying me or frustrating me to no end. But, most days, he's just plain great.
• My Things complete the picture for me. Again, there are THOSE days when I just sigh but more often than not I realize what a very lucky mom I am: to be given the privilege of raising these two amazing boys, quirks and all.

So you see, I am where I want to be...doing the things I was meant to be doing. And with that being the case, I am content with all the blessings in my life and really don't mind what age I am.

Life is good, very very good...

So for those of you still unsure about getting another year older, I offer you this

Jump on in, the water's fine!

In just one week...

The Things will be back to school. Hard to imagine that their summer break is coming to a rather rapid end. I'm thinking that the anxiety level here in the House of Chang is sure to rise over the next 7 days. Both boys have been reassigned to a new track, which is why we've enjoyed an extra 3 weeks off this summer. For Thing Two, he'll do fine as he knows so many of the kids in the neighborhood, that he's certain to know a kid or two in his class. But, for Thing One, change rarely comes without some level of anxiety so I'm just not sure how he'll do. He's had such a great time off but then again, the demands on him have been almost nonexistent. Sure he's had to deal with the daily demands of being a member of the family: help around the house, go to bed on time, do your reading but these are all things he does pretty much without getting anxious. We've not taken a lot of adventures where he's had to cope with sensory overload. Time will tell how he copes with the changes.

And, well I too am a bit anxious. I had my fair share of worries last year and although I've set my mind that this is a new year, fresh start, I am also really struggling with some worries. I need to just keep them under control and keep an open mind. My children deserve that much from me. If I expect it of them, then they need to be able to count on it from me.

So for the next week, we will set out to savor all the fun of summer vacation. We've got a couple pool dates planned and perhaps a lunch out later in the week. And, well, I really need to work on getting us up and moving in the morning. We've got the getting up down, it is the moving part that gets so hard. Wish us luck...

Try Something Different

Thing Two tells us yesterday (as he was still working on perfecting his comic's timing)

• You wanna try something different? Try putting jello in your pants. That's different...

Oh my...I should not have let him rent Muppets take Manhattan. He's been quoting that joke since he heard it yesterday afternoon. Heavy sigh...I'm off to hide the jello...

Daniel Isn't Talking

By Marti Leimbach, Daniel Isn't Talking is the story about Daniel who is 3 and isn't talking. As the story unfolds, the family learns that Daniel has autism and the rest of the story looks at how the family copes and adjusts with this new reality. It is a work of fiction yet the author's own son has autism so there were plenty of elements of fact incorporated into the story. At times you might be inclined to think this is a memoir instead of a fictionalized story.

In the first 50 pages or so, I was mesmerized! I knew the premise of the book, so I knew what was coming in terms of his yet undiagnosed condition. As I read the book, I was transported back in time to our own journey with Thing One. And I cried as I relived some very sad memories of my own. A mother does indeed know long before the experts confirm that her child isn't developing normally. You do feel isolated and alone and you definetly must go through a grieving process for the loss of the child you imagined you'd be raising compared to the one that you are blessed with. The author does a marvelous job of capturing the flurry of emotions that surround the parents when they first embark on this trip into Autismland.

But, by about half way through the story, I'd had enough. This isn't to say that I didn't like the story. I did. I just find that if I spend too much time in Autismland (be it through books, support groups or blogs), I tend to get a bad case of the blahs. I'm not all that functional to myself or my family when I've got the blahs. So, I quickly finished the story and am ready to move on to some story that doesn't hit quite so close to home.

You might enjoy the story. The author gives real thought towards creating her main characters. I found some of the progress that Daniel made a bit unrealistic. I also found it hard to believe that in such a short time frame, she'd managed to get in to see a whole slew of specialists. I realize that the author had to make these things happen rather quickly in order for her subplots to work. Again, just a reminder that it is a work of fiction, not a true life story.

But as for me, I think I'll stay away from such stories in the future: I like to be entertained, amused, escape and yes, occasionally, educated and enlightened. But, at least for me, this book just took me on a trip down memory lane. Granted, my journey was not exactly like Melanie's (for which I am very grateful for being blessed with a supportive husband and compassionate and caring circle of friends). And although I know it is good to remember the past, it is more important for me to look to the future and realize how far Thing One has come and how there is no reason to believe that he won't continue to make extraordinary progress with his condition.

So, can anyone point me in the direction of something FUN to read? I need a good laugh...crazy, goofy chick lit is what I want to read next. Suggestions please!

Sky High

The Things just finished watching the movie Sky High for the second time in 24 hrs. Do you think they like it? Ah gee, I don't know. They are now busy being super heroes, trying to decide who gets which powers and which one of their stuffed animals will be their side kicks.

So, being the silly mom that I like to be sometimes (especially lately during these lazy days of summer) I said "you know boys, I was in the Hero crowd when I was in school".

You'd have to know the story line of this movie, plus me to realize I was telling a tale, a really tall tale when I tried to claim I was cool once. Only in my dreams did I hang with the cool kids in school.

The funny part is that Thing Two got it...sort of...when he said "No you weren't Mom, you went to COWBOY COLLEGE!"

Yep, I fear that graduating from U.Wyo. ranks lower than being a sidekick at Sky High at least in the eyes of a hero-worshiping not quite 7 year old.

The World's Fastest Indian

Hubby is one of the pickier people I know when it comes to movies that he's interested in seeing. I can't remember the last time we went to see a movie together as a couple. Oh sure, he'll take the Things to see their movies (he loved Cars almost more than the Things). But, when it comes to adult flicks, he's got a pretty narrow focus of what interests him and which movies he wants to spend his money on seeing.

Thankfully, he's not so picky when it comes to video rentals. I guess he figures if he doesn't like the video, he can either turn it off or leave the room.

But this particular movie he actually asked me to rent. Oh sure, he'll tolerate watching what I pick out but rarely does he put in any requests. But, since the onset of his midlife crisis v2.0, he's been very into anything motorcycle related.

So last night, we watched this movie. To show you how dull I can be, when I first heard the title I thought, Anthony Hopkins is going to play an Indian? Couldn't they find some REAL Indian to play the role. DUH: Indian is referring to the motorcycle that he rides when he sets his records for speed.

The movie did indeed live up to the hype. As a smaller scale, independent movie, it didn't have all the glitz and glamour that bigger budget films seem to have. It just told a nice story about a quirky old man with a dream. Along the way, he meets some colorful but encouraging folks.

So, if you too have a picky spouse, try renting this movie. It has enough of a story to appeal to us chicks and there are gadgets, gizmos and gasoline to appeal to the guy in your life.

What to do when Comcast goes down?

Yesterday morning I was doing my usual morning computer surfing and THINKING I really should scrapbook. When all of sudden, there was a ZAP followed by a flicker of lights. It was as if we'd experienced some sort of power surge. All the gadgets came back up (gotta love those fancy surge protectors) EXCEPT for our internet access! I tried rebooting the cable modem but had no luck. I figured the problem was more than likely on THEIR end so I went back to what I was doing.

Except, all of a sudden I realized my procrastinating pal, the computer, had bailed on me! And, I found myself saying "might as well work on this layout". So, I slowly puttered around and before I knew it, I created a page that is perhaps one of my current favorites.

It will go in Thing One's School album and reflects all the "track off" travel we enjoyed during school year 04-05. With the completion of this layout, I can proudly announce that I've finished his second grade year. Yeah right! Before you assume that means his album is caught up, keep in mind he did second grade TWICE and thus I still need to think of how I want to work in Second Grade, Take Two.

So, now that the computer is back online (hubby being the network guy that he is, was able to figure out the proper sequence of rebooting and we were back online before dinner. Gotta love that his addiction to high speed surfing is, as bad if not, worse than mine!), I can share with you the pages I've worked on since the company left on Sunday.

It feels good to be scrapbooking again. Maybe I'm not cranking out the layouts like I used to. Instead, I find that I like to think through the layout, focusing on the story I want to share and remember through a scrapbook page. Granted such a method doesn't win me any contests in page challenges, nor does it help me with my desire to get caught up. But, it does bring me back to the reason for scrapbooking in the first place. I enjoy retelling the stories and hope that when the boys grow up, they too will enjoy looking at the pages that mom made just for them.

Run like the...

For as long as my failing memory can recall, Thing One always had some sort of "catch phrase" that he says repeatedly. In autism-land they refer to it as story speak or verbal stimming. Whatever you call it, is can be quirky, cute or down right annoying: depending on the phrase, the timing and how often he uses it.

We've survived "chicken nugget", "peanut brittle", even made it through "tartar sauce" and "pickles". (yes, I too am seeing a food trend).

But the latest ones are trying my patience. Lately it has been "I believe I can fly". And this past weekend, he's been telling me "Run Like the New York Yankees".

The New York Yankees? Where in the world did he come up with that one I wonder? Who knows...but for now, I'm hoping he quickly finds a new phrase as hubby is neither a sports nut or a fan of the great state of NY. :)

Can you feel the heat?

Yowza...yesterday was hot and today is supposed to be as hot, if not hotter. I know: it is a dry heat. No humidty. Blah Blah Blah. But you know, once you get to 102 degrees it is H*O*T, with or without the dry factor.

And yes, we have central air but again, it can only accomplish so much when the bright sun is beating down on the back of the house.

We tried to go to the pool yesterday but many other neighbors had the same idea and the boys decided after just about an hour that it was "too hot" to swim. We spent the rest of the day down here in the basement. And really, it is a great spot to hang out as we've got just about all the gadgets and toys you'd want down here.

So, once Thing Two and I get back from his end of season picnic, I'm looking forward to a long snooze on the couch. And after the nap, I might even be inspired to craft a bit. I've been a busy card maker these days. I'm just about ready to switch gears and work on some scrapbook stuff.




Here's a little sample of my attempts to combine card making with my love of scrapbooking. I"m mighty proud of myself for finally realizing I can put the two together and come up with a very personalized way to tell someone Thanks...

The Secret ingredient

The Things love to snuggle and cuddle with me on the couch. It always makes me happy when they call out "Mom, can you come sit with us on the couch". Now of course, that pleasant happy feeling lasts all of 3 nanoseconds as they bicker between themselves, trying to decide who gets to snuggle up right next to mom. But, it usually all works out and everyone finds a comfie spot.

Yesterday, I was watching Oprah (sidenote: she's been running reruns of her Debt Diet and I'm just fascinated by what a financial pickle so many families find themselves in and yet they seem oblivious to the emotional and psychological component that plays a large role in the cycle of overspending).

Thing Two sneaks up behind me and gives me a little peck on the cheek.
I reply in my nice mommy voice (trust me, I have one that isn't so nice): "That was such a nice kiss. What's your secret?"

Ever so wise, at almost 7, he says "Mom, it isn't a secret. I just ate a Dove Bar and there was chocolate on my lips. That is what makes it such a good kiss".

Ah Man...I'm so in trouble once he discovers there are other girls out there besides his momma...

Password please...

Thing One was standing in the doorway when we came back from the bank. Blocking our way. He said to Thing Two: "Password please". And Thing Two replies rather quickly "Move it or lose it!"

I couldn't help but giggle and guessing from Thing One's response, he found it funny to, as he stepped aside and let the little bully pass on through.

Lost and FOUND...

I'd recently misplaced something. It was a rather trivial item. So minor, that I won't even tell you what it was because it is embarrassing to think how much time I spent searching for it.

But, while I looked high and low, under, over, inside and behind...I managed to clean up a few often forgotten areas of the house. So, not only was this a valuable lesson for me to slow down, be more careful of where I leave my stuff, it was also a productive time spent trying to track this silly item down.

Imagine my surprise and joy when I found this silly little item in the lost and found section of our local library! I'm thinking that in my pre-vacation hurry, it got mixed in with my stack of returned library books. And some kind soul was nice enough to put it in the lost and found bin.

And the biggest surprise was that all the contents inside were still there!

Ok, I"ll fess up...it was my coupon organizer. Before you go and do the "she lost her WHAT and spent how much time looking for it?". I should admit to my other blunder associated with this lost item. I'd stuck several gift cards (brand new, full value) inside of it so that the next time I went to the store, I'd have them handy and with me. So, it wasn't just a binder I was looking for...but something with a significant amount of "same as cash" stuff. So, now I have a clean house and a greatful heart. Life is good indeed...

The Other Boleyn Girl

Between birthdays, vacation, hanging by the pool and drooling over the new Stampin UP! catalog, it has been a real struggle to carve out time to read. But, since I so enjoy reading, I've worked hard to make it happen. My latest accomplishment has been to finish reading The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory.

Another historical novel, this story focuses on the Boleyn family and their rise to power during King Henry the VIII reign. She focuses in on the two Boleyn girls and their competition for the greatest prize...the attention of the a king.

I found the story rich in detail and the characters were nicely developed. The story itself dragged at times. I'm not sure if that is so much the fault of the author or the fact that her story required it in order to be somewhat accurate to the time she was writing about. It may also have been that I had refreshed my memory with the history of the time by sneaking a peek at a Wikipedia entry for this time in history and knew what the sequence of events was andI was thus antsy for the story to move along a bit faster. Lordy, what did we do before Wikipedia? It is like the cliff notes for all things we should have learned in high school but either forgot or weren't paying attention to.

Regardless, I found the book to be a worthy read if you appreciate historical fiction and enjoy this time in history. It is a long book, and has taken me pretty much the entire three weeks alllotted by the library to finish it.

I found it interesting that politics haven't really changed all that much over time: you scratch my back, and I'll find a spot for you in my administration. Ok, so back then they weren't back scratcing (wink wink) but favors were exchanged back and forth. It doesn't matter which side of the political coin you prefer, there will always be some secret handshaking going on behind closed doors. Some things just never change, eh?

Ah, but I'll get off my soapbox and back to making my wish list for stamp stuff that I simply MUST have. Oh my, I can indeed switch gears quickly can't I?

Days of Childhood

Let me play in the sunshine
Let me sing for joy
Let me grow in the light
Let me splash in the rain
And Remember the days of childhood
Forever,

A reason to get dressed?

The summer dress code here in the House of Chang is pretty casual. On many mornings, I've not gotten dressed until I've had somewhere to go. Both boys find sitting around in nothing but their underwear to be a great treat...so we just let them do that. They feel like they are getting away with something and it doesn't cost me a dime to reward them with that special treat.

Thing Two recently figured out one problem with being in his underwear and nothing else. He was playing with some toy and wanted to put it in his pocket. He announced "Oh, I need pockets, better go find me some clothes" and off he went to get dressed. I had to chuckle as once again he thinks out loud and it just cracks me up when he does.

Thing One, on the other hand, would rather do without pockets than have to get dressed and such was the case on his birthday. He spent most of his day wearing nothing but his white briefs.

That really isn't so unusual as he will often ask "are any girls coming over today?" and if they answer is no, he hollers out "YAHOO, I can stay in my underwear!". (one house rule is that all boys must be clothed properly if ladies, other than Mom are in the house). This of course means that my selection of photos to share with ya'll from his birthday are few: as he looks like he is in his birthday suit in most of the indoor shots. Probably best that I not post those shots for the look rather odd.

He had a great day celebrating his 9th birthday and I"m glad that we went with the simple approach to celebrating. We had a couple friends over, played a few games, ate lunch, cake and presents and called it a day. Much easier on me and I really think he enjoyed it more than the bigger bashes we've had in the past.

The highlight for all the boys had to be playing with water. Between an attempt at water-gun soccer (which worked except the younger kids just couldn't help themselves in kicking the ball instead of letting the water do the work. This naturally angered the older boys) and a water balloon fight where even I found myself getting wet...it was all a grand time.

So, now I can kick back and relax...at least until next month when we do it all again for Thing Two!

Happy Birthday America...

Today marks the start of the Birthday Season here at the House of Chang. First up, we salute America as she celebrates her 230th birthday. Following in a close second place will be Thing One, then Grandpa (but he'll be celebrating in Norway this year) then me and we finish up in about 6 weeks with Thing Two! Toss in the birthdays of a couple good friends and well, there is going to be a whole lot of cake consumed around these parts in the coming weeks!

I remember exactly where I was 9 years ago today. Hubby and I had just moved into our house over on Ireland Street and after a couple days of hard work, we decided to seek refuge from the heat by going to the movie theatre. Yes: right there you have two signs of our stupidity: we bought a house without central air here in Colorado and I was well...not up to my usual productivity so to speak.

My dad was with us (having come out to help us move into our new house). We tried to go see Men In Black but within the first few minutes of the movie starting, I knew it wasn't going to happen. Those contractions were coming pretty regular at about 3 minutes apart.

I still chuckle when I remember our exit out of the theatre. Hubby looking pretty anxious,me in that 40th week of gestational haze: anxious about delivery, tired of being pregnant, and bringing up the rear is my dad. He spots the theatre manager and announces proudly "we're gonna have a baby!" and then he pauses just long enough to say "can we get them some rainchecks so they can come back and see the movie some other day?".

Yeah, and folks wonder where I get my frugal ways from! Ha, I shouldn't be the only one in the family whose tombstone will read "they had a coupon!"

And yes, for the record, we did make it back to see the movie AND I remembered to put the ticket stubs in the scrapbook!

It is good to be home...

This past vacation really snuck up on me. And once we were there, the week just flew by very quickly. So fast, that I wasn't really ready to come home. But alas, we had no choice and down the mountain we came.

Going into the trip, I was a bit worried or perhaps just curious to see how the Things would do on this trip. They've been rather spoiled in the travel department: having been to such cool and fun places as Disney (World and Land), LegoLand, Niagara Falls and even NYC. Toss in the trips to see family in MI, WI, FL and the Bay Area of CA and you can see where I wondered would they be impressed that this year we were only driving a couple hours and spending the week in the mountains?

As is often the case, they surprised me with their excitement and enthusiasm for the trip. Granted, a large part of their happiness stemmed from their pals being with us for most of the week. It was like on extended playdate WITH a sleepover that lasted 4 days.


But, they also seemed to be taking their time enjoying the beauty that makes our state so special.


I watched with awe as they excitedly floated an empty water bottle down a little stream, calling a small little trickle of water over rocks a "water fall".


I smiled as they realized that white mound of stuff was actually snow and that they could play in it just like they do in the winter time.


And I was grateful when they allowed me time to pause and smell (ok, photograph!) the flowers. It gave me great hope that we can continue with such vacations where the focus isn't so much as doing things/going places but instead just slowing down and appreciating that simpler things in life...like the goregeous mountains and precious flowers that bloom right in our backyard so to speak.

So, until our next trip, I share these final images with you of our Vacation 2006..with hopes of exploring more of Colorado in the years to come...

Camp Stamp-a-lot..

Ok, so maybe A LOT is an exaggeration, but while up in the mountains, I did manage to make 9 cards! My goal was 8, so I'm pleased with myself for exceeding my goal, even if by just one. Ah gee, if I could be so committed to exercise goals as my crafting goals, I'd be in great shape. But oh well: one can't be perfect at everything, right? Even us Marthas have a few weak areas!

The entire vacation really snuck up on me and so at the last minute I was grabbing my stamp stuff and once I sat down to make some cards, I realized I'd forgotten a couple "would have been nice" items. Oh well: you make do the best you can. And it was an important reminder for me that whenever I plan to craft away from my craft room, I need to take time to plan out what I want to work on.

So, for your viewing enjoyment, here's a sample of my creations.

Look Martha, MORE flowers...

The vacation is going rather nicely. On Monday our friends joined us for some fun. We've swam, chatted,stamped (shh..don't tell Hubby but yes, I brought up my craft crap and as of today I've made 5 cards!). The boys have played a bit of golf (miniature style), bungee bounced(strapped into a harness you bounce on a trampoline, higher and higher). As a group, we've taken a couple short hikes (but you have to call them walks or else MY things protest loudly). We've checked out several cool parks. And most importantly we've taken the time to appreciate the beauty that surrounds us. Notice, I didn't mention taking pictures. Yes, I've taken "just a few". I won't embarrass myself by admitting HOW many pictures I've taken. But the remarks from the boys might give you a little hint as to how bad I've been...

• Thing One asked me "how much coins do I get for smiling THIS time?
• Thing Two shakes his head and says "MORE? GEEZ"
• And Mr. T (my friends son)...well, he's my pal for life...he proudly announced on our hike, uh walk, back into Vail Village..."Look Ms. Martha, MORE Flowers" and stopped walking while I took pictures. He's a keeper I tell ya!

So, that I feel a little less guilty for all the time I've spent taking pictures, I will share just a couple with you. Or would you prefer to see all 3,459 of them? (just kidding...it hasn't been THAT bad)

River Run Report

Well, for starters, we can pretty much strike "boatsman" off Thing One's career options profile. Despite the gentle nature of the Colorado River (at least the stretch we were floating on), he was determined NOT to have a good time. Something spooked him at the beginning and he spent the first 10 minutes sort of quivering with fear. He did end up smiling a couple times and even tried his hand at paddling. Well, that is until he got distracted and dropped the paddle, but the guide caught it.

Thing Two on the other hand, reminded us yet again that his teen years will be tough. We can just see the thrill seeker in him trying to break through the desire to please Mommy and Daddy. He was grinning from ear to ear, begging for more rapids (we'd picked the easy family float as a way to see who liked what). At one point, the guide mentioned you could swim in the river. Next thing we knew: Thing Two had JUMPED OFF THE boat and into the river and was pretty surprised to see how cold it was. Fear not, we did get him back into the raft and this only added to his confidence and thrill seeking attitude.

We took a few pictures with a good old fashioned disposable water proof camera. Most of them will be with Thing One scowling and Thing Two grinning. A pretty expensive way to see Colorado but one that neither boy will soon forget!

Our room with a view...

I took this photo yesterday evening, standing on the patio of our condo. Ok, so that is indeed I-70 running through but hey, we're still enjoying the view!

This exchange is by far the best one we're traded for. There is marble in the bath and kitchen, a jacuzzi tub in each of the two bathrooms. Nobody should complain about having to watch some show they don't want to: we've got four tvs throughout the unit. And best of all (at least according to hubby), is the high speed internet access, available in the room! The only thing missing is central air...and really, with the windows open and once the sun shifted, you don't really need it.


We've spent the first day just hanging out. We did make it to the local park and we all made it one loop around the lake. Spent a bit of time poolside and we even each got a chance to catch a nap. Tomorrow is the BIG adventure...a raft trip down the river. Shhh...Don't tell Thing Two but we picked the easy "family friendly" one rather than anything with serious rapids. We know him well enough to realize anything more than a gentle float will be too frightening for him...even if claims to be the bravest boy in the boat! Pictures for that will have to wait: I don't dare take my digital camera with me...but we did pick up a couple disposable water proof cameras and the Things have PROMISED to take real pictures...not photos of chairs, chips or cheeks (at least they were covered with underwear but still...Note to self..don't let them use the digital camera anytime soon).

So until I feel so inclined to blog while on vacation...enjoy these photos of Colorful Colorado!~

Heading for the Hills

We're loading up the family van and heading up to the mountains for a week. I can't believe it has been almost a year since we've gone on vacation. That is SO not us!
Needless to say, we're all MORE THAN ready for a break from the routine of life.
And, although we'll take a laptop with us, I don't anticipate updating the blog while I"m there. Once you go high speed, having to deal with dial up is just so not worth it, if you know what I mean.

So until I blog again...Happy Trails to you all!

Movie Madness

Both Hubby and I enjoy watching an assortment of mindless tv shows. So much so, that during the regular tv season, we rarely find time or have a desire to rent movies. But, once all our favorite shows go into rerun mode, we switch gears and start to catch up on movies we missed throughout the year. Since we rarely catch movies when they are playing in the theatres, there is always a long list of movies we're curious to watch.

For the summer, I signed up for Hollywood Video's version of Netflix. You pay a monthly rate of $10 (well, that's the introductory rate, after the first month it goes to $14.95/month) and you can pick three movies at a time (as long as it isn't a first run movie), as often as you want. It works out perfectly: each Thing gets to pick a movie and I select one for Hubby and I.

Thing One usually picks something related to his passion du jour. He's been in Pokemon mode for the past several months now so he checks out whatever Pokemon movie he can find. It doesn't not seem to matter that we may already have that movie at home: he really likes picking out his own movie.

Thing Two is all about the Simpsons and so his choices are usually something Simpson related. Oh joy sighs mom! But again, it is his choice and as long he just WATCHES Bart's antics and doesn't start to imitate Bart, I"m ok with it all.

As for us, I try to find something that Hubby and I will both like. So far this summer I've not done so well in picking out flicks. First I picked up some war movie for hubby (as I was going out with the gal pals that night). His comment was "no wonder THAT movie went straight to video". A real thumbs down.

Next, I picked Mr. and Mrs. Smith. Yeah, I knew the movie was torn to shreds by the critics. But, since I consider myself somewhat talented at "reading" people, I was curious to see the movie that sparked the break up of Brad and Jen and started this whole Brangelina craze. Yikes: bad doesn't even come close to describing this movie. Senseless violence doesn't really bother me (I admit, I am a Kill Bill fan) but this movie had no humor to it, no plot, just chaos with a very weak attempt at telling a lame story.

Ok, Hubby tells me that I'm just about to have my Movie Picking License revoked for the season. I'm treading on thin ice. Luckily, I catch a break with The Wedding Crashers. Granted, not the film for everyone, but since it had topless women in it, Hubby said I had a stay of execution and could resume movie picking duty. It is a different twist on your standard romantic comedy: a bit more raunchy than some people care for, but we enjoyed it.

So this week, I said forget about what he wants to watch, I'm getting a bonafide CHICK Flick and came home with In Her Shoes. Oh my goodness, how did I miss seeing this one in the theatres? It would have made a great "get together with the girls" movie. I laughed, I cried and I was reminded again how happy I feel after I see a really good movie!

Now that I"ve had my fix on a good flick, I'm in search of another feel good movie...what movie have you seen lately that just made you happy you took the time to watch it? Come on...share your favorites please...

Did I bring my friends he asked...

For several years I've belonged to a neighborhood playgroup (Hi Dodi!). And luckily, we've not been your average playgroup. We've fed the kids all assortments of unhealthy snacks, we've drank "Mommy juice" from our coffee cups (not even wondering or concerned if it is 5 o'clock somewhere!). And through it all we've become good friends. Oh sure, the occasional competitive parenting moment has occured (mostly during the toilet training stages and preschool selection era) but for the most part, we all like each other and have become good friends. We've lost a few moms to job transfers and relocations (we miss you Allison and Christine!) and we've gained a few new members (although we've yet to get them to ALL drink from those spiked coffee mugs!) Although my kids are often in school when the group gathers, I still enjoy stopping in for some chick chatter. So, some of the newer kids know me but don't know my kids that well.

Yesterday I was at the pool with my boys, when the son of one of our newer members showed up. I said hello and mentioned that most of the gang was here today...listing off the names of several other neighborhood families I'd seen poolside. This adorable little guy looks at me and asks "And did YOU bring your friends from China with you?"...

I thought: what is he talking about? I couldn't remember any visiting relatives...Oh wait, do you mean MY children? Yeah, those boys...
And then I smiled...yes, I did bring my friends from China with me...

and yes, it is a compliment that the Things look more like their dad than me...

Garden Shots

I'm not that interested in the work associated with gardening. Yes, I will get out there and pull the occasional weed, water the flowers, even toss a little plant food on them. But the passion has just not been there. Yet, as I watch the beauty of my inherited garden blossom, I might just be inclined to change my tune. The previous owner was very into her flowers and I'm catching a bit of the bug as I look outside my kitchen window and routinely catch glimpses of new bursts of color.

Just maybe there is a bit more Martha Stewart in me than I care to admit? A garden can be a very good thing indeed....

Well, at least he's honest...

Last night, Thing Two had his fifth t-ball game in three weeks. It's been hot and he's just not that into the whole organized sports concept. Sure he loves some parts of it, but I doubt we're raising the next Cal Ripkin Jr. Despite this, he's a trooper and went without complaining (we've already had THE talk about seeing things through so I'm guessing he knew better than to throw a tantrum and refuse to go).

During his turn at bat, he ran to first base like he had lead in his shoes. While out in the field, I spotted him yawning more than watching the ball.

After the game, I asked him what happened. I even gave him a lead "you were pretty tired out there tonight, weren't you?". His reply was one of those remarks that make you realize just maybe they do pay attention to all the nagging I do.. "No, Mom, I just didn't try my best".

Like his folks, he can call it like he sees it. I reminded him to hang in there as the season is short and we're more than half way through. That put the smile back on his face!

The first day of summer vacation...

Ah, can you see the smile on my face? Do you hear the echo of silence as I go about my morning routine, cheerful in the knowledge that we don't have to rush out the door at any particular time? We can do what we want when we want...for today is the first official day of summer break!

Yeah right, I expect in a matter of minutes the Things will hunt me down, begging to go somewhere, do something or their most repeated request: have someone over! And much as I am inclined to fulfill their every wish (yes, I'm soon to be inducted into the indulging parent hall of fame) I'm also reminded that this too is MY summer vacation. So, no, at least for today we are not having anyone over. We are not doing something out of the ordinary. After lunch, we have been invited to a friend's house...but I've not told them that little treat for the day.

For right now, we're just going to enjoy this morning.....knowing that soon enough we'll be back to the chaos of family life! And even worse, when vacation does end on August 1st, school will be starting ten minutes earlier then before (tardy bell will now ring at 0801)! Yikes...that reality alone is enough to remind me to savor the slow pace of summer break!

Goodnight Nobody

Each summer, People Magazine puts together a list of books they consider to be "good summer reading". I think for awhile they were calling their list something like "beach reads". The list included light hearted fun stuff. I'm not sure: don't flame me for getting the details wrong. Anyways, I wouldn't be a bit surprised to have learned that this book, Goodnight Nobody by Jennifer Weiner, made such a list.

Here's how one reviewer summarized the book (it is early and my thoughts are jumbled, so yes, I"m cutting and pasting this morning!) "In Goodnight Nobody, Jennifer Weiner brings together two compelling tales---an engrossing murder mystery and a poignant story about one woman's quest to save her sanity and sense of self amidst the challenges of motherhood, marriage, and suburbia."

I give this book a double thumbs up rating for fun. Her characters are real. Unlike some chick lit stuff, where you find yourself rolling your eyes thinking "yeah right", this book has a certain element of authenticity to it. If you've lived in the suburbs for any length of time and interacted with other mommies, you've surely met characters like some of the ones she introduces in this book. And everyone needs a best friend like Kate had.

Oh no...the clock tells me I better get off the computer. I'll wrap this up by saying if you want to read something fun, then check this book out. I doubt you'll be too disapointed!

Digging to America

TV reruns sure do help with my reading efforts. I've finished two books this week and feeling mighty proud of myself for accomplishing such a goal. The first book I read was Digging to America by Anne Tyler.

The basic premise of the story is that two families, whose paths would probably never have intersected, meet each other at the airport while they are awaiting the arrival of their newly adopted daughters being escorted in from Korea. As the one year anniversary of their arrival approaches, one of the families looks up the other family to invite them to a party they are having to celebrate this important anniversary. From here, the story continues to follow the lives of these two very different families as their friendship builds.

If you've read much of Anne Tyler's work, you are aware of her unique style of storytelling. She is known more for her character development than her plot. And, this book was really no different. The plot moved along while she created very real and vivid characters. I found some of her insights interesting as she examined certain cultural issues such as what does it really mean to be an American? If you are an immigrant, can you ever fully fit into the American culture? Do you even want to fit in? Since hubby is an immigrant, and my Things are first generation Americans (at least on the paternal side!), I found this aspect of the novel very interesting. I found myself nodding, and I even chuckled over a scene involving rice as I realized how right on target she was in describing certain cultural elements of one of the two families.

My only real concern was the slow pace in which she tells her story. I like a bit more plot. I'd also have liked to hear a bit more from the young girls themselves. Granted, initially they were babies, but as the story progressed, it would have been interesting to hear more of their characters voice.

I found the book to be a timely story...especially given the recent hot topic subject of immigration reform. And although she doesn't specifically address this issue, just reading about the immigrant experience had me mulling over my own opinions when it comes to the idea of Coming to America. I'd say look for this book in the library. It is a rather quick read and not something you would necessarily want for your home collection but it is a book you'll be glad that you read.

Graduating Thing

Another major milestone was passed yesterday here in the House of Chang. Thing Two graduated from kindergarten! And man, it was a LONG TIME coming. We decided a couple years ago to hold him back a year. Give him that gift of time. Year round school means he'd be starting each school year not having had his birthday that most kids have that previous school year. And although I have NO regrets in that decision, it sure has been a long couple of years. First there was the added year of preschool. He was so ready to be DONE with preschool but NOT ready for kindergarten. I thought, just get to kindergarten. Then, I realized that he was MORE THAN READY for kindergarten when the time to go finally arrived.

But the decision to hold any child back a grade (Thing One benefited greatly from "take two" on second grade this year), isn't one made because of an immediate concern. (at least it wasn't for us). It is a long range concern that prompts most of us parents to do the right thing for our children. And as I have learned from this experience, the decision to hold the student back may be right for the child but can be very hard on the parent. Yet in the end: it is ALL ABOUT our kids right? Choosing to do right by our children should be our first concern, even when it is harder for us.




So, here's to you, my happy thing! You did great! We are so proud of you!
And watch out first grade, here he comes!

Deadlines and Challenges

As a SAHM, there aren't too many deadlines in our day to day world. For many of us, myself included, this is a challenge we struggle with routinely. I know when I was working, I was most productive when I had a full schedule and somewhere I had to be after work. I had a reason to stay on task and get everything done in a timely manner. Occasionally, I'll create deadlines for myself. I'm guessing that's why I enjoy having friends over: it gives me a deadline to get the bathrooms cleaned, the kitchen floor mopped and laundry put away (all some of my least favorite tasks). Hubby has caught on to my style of home management. Now when he comes home and see a clean kitchen floor and the smell of pine sol, he says rather snarky "Must be your turn to have playgroup, eh?" He's not really complaining, more like commenting. He, just like me figures, whatever it takes to get the job done is fine by him.

This is the last week of school for the Things. Thing Two graduates from kindergarten tomorrow morning and Thing One finishes up later in the week. That has created a craft deadline for me. And it worked! Wrapped and ready to distribute are cards for the teachers and even a little "brag book" style album for one of the teachers.

As for challenge, they really aren't my thing.I think I am just not that much into competition in general. I tend not to set goals that involve me sticking to a plan in order to accomplish the goal. I've never set a page goal for my scrapbooking nor have I set a reading goal for my reading passion. And, if you've seen me in real life, you would know it has been a long time since I've had any sort of bets involving the scale! I do much better just plugging along. So, it was unusual when I peaked in on ScrapShare over the weekend and spotted a Becky Higgin Sketch Challenge. Oh, I recognize that sketch I thought to myself. That is one of MY favorite ones to use. And, so I finished my last Christmas 2005 layout using this challenge. I've never done the SS challenges, but I think I'm not supposed to post my layout until Wednesday. BUT, I will give you all a preview here on my blog. I added a few extra pictures than what the original sketch used. But, I had just a few more pictures than what the sketch called for and I knew that this would be the END of the 2005 pictures so I made them fit. Ah, how I absolutely love those sketch books! Where would I be without them? Probably still struggling with what to do with those last few pictures.

Uh oh, a quick glance at the clock suggests if I don't sign off, I might miss my one major deadline of the morning: getting the Things to school on time! Gotta Go! Happy Monday to you all...

Brothers who bicker...

Like any set of siblings, the Things are known to occasionally bicker. It is considered a good day when the bickering doesn't escalate into a shout out for help from Mom to mediate the dispute.

Here's a recap of yesterday morning's dispute...

• Thing Two: YOU took the last pair
• Thing One: SO I got there first
• Thing Two: BUT those are the ones I wanted
• Thing One: You can wear these, I'm finished with them
• Thing Two: But they are stinky. YOu wore them yesterday! Oh well, at least they are comfie.

And thus the matter was settled without calling for Mom. In this case, I wish they had called out for my help. Because they were arguing over who got to wear the last pair of CLEAN Haines comfie waitband underwear! So comfie that Thing Two would rather wear a dirty pair than risk something not so comfie.

I guess there is truth in advertising...they are more comfortable than regular pairs and more importantly, I best go buy some more pairs as three pairs for two boys just isn't go to work out: even if they found a solution to their problem!

Flakey Mom syndrome

Call it summer fever. Call it school needs to be done, I want to play way more than my kids do!
But, this weekend, I promised Thing One I would help him get started on the visual aide for his presentation that is due tomorrow. Did I even think of the project once? NOPE! We worked on the written portion last week and I said at the time "we can decide what you want to do this weekend!". UH OH... I can tell we're gonna be a busy family this evening as it is due tomorrow! And, if that isn't enough, Thing Two has a baseball game tonight as well!

Grumble Grumble Grumble....

The F word

Thing Two comes up to me this morning and says he needs to ask me a VERY IMPORTANT question. I replied "What is it son?". He pauses and said "Ok, this will take awhile, AND I have to use the F word".

Hmmm... I immediately panic and wonder what is so important he has to make sure he gets it right AND it involves the F word? Now I admit to using some grown up words that perhaps my boys shouldn't hear, but none of my colorful words of choice start with the letter F, HONEST! I'm more of a D word or S word kind of gal. Rarely the F word and NEVER any C words.

Well, he goes on to explain how he's been really good about playing with his brother (I nod in agreement) and yet how he's been a little lonely (ok, lonely is better than saying bored) and could he PLEASE invite over...some FRIENDS!!

I give the huge sigh of relief and agree that yes, I think we can invite over some friends!

And then it all became quite clear: between track off and a long weekend, we'd really overdosed on the whole playmates/company/friends over and earlier in the week, I had gone on a rant to the boys how they needed to get back to playing together and that I absolutely DID not want to hear about them asking for friends over. We were taking a break. Case closed end of discussion. I"d forgotten my little speech but apparently Thing Two had not and wanted to re-open the matter for discussion but was afraid he'd have to use THAT word I told him I didn't want to hear him ask for: friends!

I then gave a silent word of thanks. Realizing that not only had I not exposed my son to some awful F word, but that he had heard what I was saying about the constant flow of traffic through the house, done as I had asked and was now hoping that the ban had been lifted.

Back "blogged" Book Reports

It's been awhile since I"ve shared what I've been reading. In the past couple of weeks, I've read an assortment of books. I guess none of them moved me to the point of blogging about each book separately, so instead, I'll share my collective remarks.

Whenever I"m in the need for a "quick" fix, I know I can't go too wrong with the works of James Patterson. I am a huge fan of the various TV shows that feature crime and punishment, whether that be the CSI variety or the Law and Order/Medium/Criminal Minds type. James Patterson's books satisfy this interest in the literary format. Recently, I've enjoyed The Honeymoon. I thought Mary Mary was ok. And just this week, I finished The 5th Horseman. I could share all my petty problems I had with the last two but mostly I can summarize it with: you get what you pay for. This man is a very prolific writer. Some he writes on his own, some he attaches his name to other lesser known authors. But, this man is a book-writing machine and many (if not most) of his stories reflect this assembly line approach to cranking out bestsellers. But, like I said, he gives me a quick fix. I don't have to think too hard when I read his stuff and I know that it will be mildly entertaining (that always seems so wrong to admit that you find deranged killers and victims to be entertaining but hey, that is the way it is for me).

The other book I read recently was The Alibi by Joseph Kanon. Set in post-war Venice, it too deals with the subject of murder and the subsequent investigation. But instead of the "who dunnit" he looks at was it right and what price does it exact. He spends a great part of the book examining the moral compass that drives us all. I found it interesting although at times a bit sluggish.


I much preferred a book I read a couple summers ago also by Joseph Kanon. That one was called The Good German and was also set in the post-WW II era, but instead of Venice, he wrote about Berlin. I heard The Good German is going to be made into a movie...and I highly recommend folks read the book BEFORE seeing the movie when it comes out later this Fall. The lead will be George Clooney. Although George is very easy on the eyes (wink wink) he is not quite the man I pictured when I read the book. Regardless, I would suggest you read The Good German first and if you like this man's style of story telling, check out The Alibi. Here's what one critic had to say about The Good German (his review actually gives a nice summary of the book in general)

Kanon spins an ever-more-riveting thriller that is bolstered by vivid period detail, genuine characters, and a thoughtful exploration of the many layers of postwar German guilt. --Thom Geier, Entertainment Weekly

But, now it is time that I sign off. I put several books on hold at the
libary and is often the case, they were all ready for pick up the same
week. Murphy's Law of reading: Either you've got nothing you want to
read or way too many choices, you don't know where to start

Embarrassing Moments, Mom Style...

This week a couple of my other scrapbooking blog pals shared moments of embarrassment. The general theme centered on embarrassing moments involving mistaken identity. I read them, laughed and thought "oh thank goodness that hasn't happened to me!"...

But yesterday when I took the Things to the pool, I remembered MY embarssing moment from LAST summer.

As a mom to two young, not so modest, boys with no waists, I'm always on plumber patrol. Checking up to make sure that their trunks are not falling down to their knees and showing the pool community their dairy airs! (yes, grammar police, I know it is really derrieres, but I'm making a punny tribute to their WI heritage) Last summer, I did a bunch of hitching of shorts as they swam by. So, I see this black haired, very tan boy go by, with half his hiney exposed. He had that Jamacian Pool boy look that both Things get as the summer progresses and I just figured it was either Thing One or Thing Two. So, I just reached over and gave those trunks a quick tug to get them back in their proper place.

The swimmer called out with a much deeper voice than my own boys and said "Thanks Miss Martha!". I looked up to realize it wasn't MY boys' bottom I'd covered but the bottom belonging to my friend's 10 year old son!

He thought it was hilarious as did his mom and she said "well, you know what they say, all Asians look alike!". J's husband is Japanese, and in my defense, our kids all look like they could be cousins. My embarrassment was short lived when I said "hey, it is my job as a mom to protect all the pool from wardrobe malfunctions"...but I must say, THIS year, I am looking before I hitch up trunks...

In a Field all his own...

It has been a frustrating week here in the House of Chang. Although the week started out great, by Tuesday afternoon I realized that an ongoing issue we've had with Thing One's special ed. team was flaring up yet again. And yes, perhaps this time I am making a mountain out of a mole hill. But, if you know (or knew) the details, I"m sure you could agree that given all the second chances we've given them, my frustration is justified. And, hey, even if I am overreacting, you all are my friends and would side with me, right?

In the midst of all my adult worries, Thing One had field Day. Now, for a kid on the autism spectrum, field day is right up there in terms of being possibly your least favorite day of the school year. All the things that make you anxious are coming together to create that perfect storm. You've got the unpredictable nature of the day (you never know which station you'll get to next or what task you'll have to complete at that station), you've got sensory issues (it gets pretty loud as your enthusiastic classmates try really hard to win the class spirit award). Toss in the added social pressure of having to work together as a team and interact with your peers in a social setting and well, it could be a recipe for total disaster. But not this year!

Nope, this year, Thing One did great. Sure, he asked that Moosey be there for moral support (when he gets anxious, he asks for Moosey). And a couple of the events he asked to sit out completely. But all in all, he was totally connected with the group. Having fun and enjoying himself.

And during all of this excitement and success for Thing One, where was that special ed team? You know, the ones that take all the credit for his success and yet do little of the acutal hard work? As usual, off to the side visiting amongst themselves. Never once coming over to cheer on one of their own. *Hmm...you don't think I"m bitter do you? Nah, not me, never as she grins her evil snarky grin!

But, despite my disappointment in the adult behavior (or lack thereof), I was ever so proud of Thing One! He showed me yet again, that no matter what, he's going to do just fine...in that field all of his own!

Just wait till he learns about shrinkage...

The Things got to soak in the tub last night. This is a special treat since they both have such dry skin that we prefer they take showers rather than deal with the itchies that come from a soak in the tub. But, they love it and so we caved. Sort of a treat for having to go back to school in the morning.

Afterwards, Thing Two announced to his dad that his tentacles were all wrinkled! He found this very amusing. As parents we found it pretty funny too. But ya know, we weren't laughing at his wrinkles, but rather his attempt to call his body part by the correct name and falling just a tad short in using the right word!

Ah yes, it is only a matter of time until they discover other features of their equipment...

The Most Wonderful time of the year...

As of 0800 this morning, the Things are back in school! YAHOO! I've already made my Sams Club run, finished up a couple chores left over from the weekend and am now sitting down to blog for a bit before I head out and do some more chores that got put off while they were under foot. Much as I love the lazy days that come with being off track, I do enjoy the alone time that I get once they go back to school.



Another thing that makes it so wonderful is that Saturday was "opening day" at the pool. They insisted we go, even though the wind made it a chilly experience. Didn't bother me all that much as I'm officially a "chair mom". You know the ones: they come to the pool and yet never have to get IN the water because their kids are good enough swimmers. I guess I'm more of a Jr. Chair Mom: the Things are good enough to be in the water alone but I'm not relaxed enough to pull out my book and leave their safety completely in the hands of the lifeguards. Maybe by the end of the summer.



And the final thing that makes life look so bright this morning is that my crafty Mojo has returned! With the move, and the challenges that come with settling into a new house, my creativity went on hiatus. I felt it sneaking back last weekend when I finished my unfinishied pages and realized this weekend it is back 100%! On Sunday, I edited, organized, renamed and ordered a bunch of digital prints. I'd tell you the exact number but Hubby might read my blog and shoot me. :) Suffice to say, once they arrive, I'll have my work cut out for me for months! Yesterday, my friend Fran and her boys joined us for an afternoon of play. Us mommies played with trimmers, stamps and adhesives while the boys played with legos, swords and paper airplanes. I'm sure it is a tie as to who had more fun! We all agreed we must do it again real soon! I managed to complete 4 double page spreads: finally working on Christmas pictures.

Ah...it does feel like the most wonderful time of the year!

A perk to kids learning to read...

Hubby is now able to send Thing Two to the basement to make a beer run. "Bring me up a Heineken". Up comes Thing Two, with the correct beer in hand "here's your hiney can Dad!"

*yep, life is slow around these parts, which explains the very blah blogging

Slugger takes another hit...

Oh poor Thing Two...he so wants to learn how to play baseball. And he gives it his all. He listens to his coaches. He practices with his dad the drills he's learned at practice. And then, suddenly he decided he didn't want to go. Initially I thought he was just too happy playing with his brother and the neighbor boy and didn't want to leave the comforts of home (we admit that's a genetic trait both boys have inherited from their home body parents). Then I remembered what had happened at the LAST practice. Well...first I'll show you

Poor fella! Last Wednesday they were working on catching using empty milk jugs when he misjudged the ball and took a direct hit to the lower lip. The bloody nose was a secondary injury...or at least that was what my assessment was. I wasn't there...having left early to start dinner. Hubby and another dad provided the initial first aide and then came home for Nurse Mommy to check it out.

So, yesterday morning we had the big post-trauma meltdown. How he wants to play baseball. How he loves baseball but he's just afraid. And somehow once he acknowledged his fear of being hit, his anxiety subsided and he was ready to go. Last night's practice was a success: he had fun with his friends, he caught a few grounders, hit a couple pitches (and yet, in classic kindie little league fashion, just stood there after making contact, completely forgetting to run to first base!) and most importantly: didn't take any hits to the face. On the way home he said "well, MOM, that's because I used my glove not a milk jug!!"

YOu just got to love the logic of the six year old mind and admire the courage that they have to get out there and try again....

Roundtuit Sunday

Everyone has that pile of stuff and projects that they set aside, hoping to get around to tackling some day/some time. I call mine my roundtuit (get it: around to it?) pile. Since moving, (and in all honesty even before that, but the move provided me with a little reprieve from my guilt) I'd had a couple pages of scrapbooking that just needed a little bit here and a little bit there until they were completely ready for the page protectors. As I was itching to start some new projects, I told myself FIRST you have to finish up the other stuff.

My first order of business was finishing Thing Two's preschool album. Since late Fall, I've had just one last page to do and a couple pages to journal and finish up and it would not just be a finished layout but a completed album! I have had plenty of opportunities but never had time and desire been in total sync. Yesterday, the stars must have all been in alignment with the planets and the Gods of Creative Energy smiled down on me! I am proud to report his "Grins and Giggles" album is COMPLETED. All pages journaled. All pages protected and it is a complete wrap! I started this album once I'd finished his baby album, easily a good 5 years ago. I take pictures that are extras from our family album and make pages that just feature him. (Yes, Thing One has a similar album. Trust me, I try to keep things pretty fair when it comes to their albums). I wanted to finish it up now that he's in kindergarten I"ll start a similar album of his school days stuff. Ah, it feels so good to be done.




But, wait, while I'm on a bragging kick let me continue to disgust you with my boasting....




I went ahead and pulled out some pages that have been bugging me since January. Last Fall I started a Travel Album. I had tired of doing the chronological scrapbooking and decided I'd start an album that features some of our trips (but not major enough to warrant a seperate album). I was struggling with some layouts from a trip we took last May to see the inlaws. These visits are always a challenge for me (complicated family dynamics) and so scrapbooking the photos that we take is never easy. But guess what? I managed to finish up this trip as well! I decided that minimal journaling was perfectly acceptable. Sort of that "if you have nothing nice to say, say nothing" approach to scrapbooking.



So now I have at least a smaller pile of stuff in the roundtuit stack. I'm thinking as crafters and as women, we'll always have something sitting around that needs a little attention whenver we find time but it always feels good to have that pile made just a bit smaller if only for a day or so. And now I can start on some new stuff with not quite as much guilt about never quite finishing one project before moving on to something new!

Rant on Roses...

I'm wondering if I can still be a card carrying "Martha" and NOT like having my own rose bushes? I thought I'd be excited to have inherited rose bushes with the purchase of our new house. I'm descended from garden loving women. My grandmother's house was known as the place with all those rose bushes on the side yard. My mother loved roses so much we had inscribed on her marker a quote about roses and memories. So, what's my problem?

THEY HURT and I"M A WIMP...
Maybe I'll change my tune once they start to bloom.
But for today, I'm still crying over my pruning injuries!

The Samurai's Garden

Lonelines ** Solutiude ** Isolation

These are three of the primary themes that Gail Tsukyama visits in her novel titled The Samurai's Garden. She sets her story on the eve of the Second World War with a young Chinese man as the narrator. He's been sent to his family's seaside home in Japan to recover from TB. While recovering, he meets some interesting residents of this small coastal town.

I finished the book earlier in the week, and I'm still trying to decide if I liked it. I know that I didn't love it. Nor did I hate it. It was just sort of ok. It made for a very good "waiting" book. As a mom, I spend a fair amount of each day waiting. Those 5 or 10 minutes before it is time to pick up the boys from school or practice. Or, watching the boys while they play out in the front yard. Since the story unfolds gradually and all the main characters have a real sense of quiet to them, it was an easy book to pick up only to quickly put back down again.

I did like how the author wove in cultural elements (from both Chinese and Japanese culture) and historical details that I found interesting. I admit to knowing very little about this time in history so I was interested to learn moe.

I'm not sure what it is that has left me going "ah, it was ok". Perhaps that these themes she visits, are rarely experienced in my life. So I found myself with little connection to the characeters in the story. I thought she did a better job of creating the older characters than she did creating the narrator.

I"m glad that I read it but I don't think I"ll be rushing out to check out her other works. It is almost summer and I think I'm in the mood for more lively tales...

The Morning stall..

So, my new job is just around the corner. Well, actually, I have to go up the street two blocks and then it is around the corner. I can't complain about rush hour traffic or getting stuck in traffic. But I am finding that already, just two weeks into the job, I"m doing the morning stall.

• Hmmm....let me just check my email real quick
• Oh wait, looks like there is a message from Sis. Better answer that real quick before I forget
• Oh gee, I need to get this deposit ready for the bank so I can drop it off after work without having to come home in between work and my appointment
• Oh, man, if I don't send off this Quicken payment, it won't get there in time.
• Gotta go Gotta Go Gotta go (the coffee kicks in)
• Oh my, look how full the laundry basket is getting..
• Let me just toss in a quick load before
• Come on boys, time to brush your teeth
• What do you mean you didn't eat your breakfast yet? What have you been doing for the past hour and a half?
• Oh man...BOYS! Come on, we're gonna be late. Let's hustle...

Yep, regardless of distance to be traveled, there is always the potential for a rush hour!

The Big Squeeze

Tomorrow I"m off for the "girls' annual photo shoot", or the "big squeeze". Or for those of you who prefer the more technical, but less fun term, my annual mammogram. Ok, I admit, to call it an ANNUAL mammogram would have meant I went 6 months ago. But, I let minor details like insurance coverage and life get in the way. ENOUGH I said and I made an appointment (no easy feat if you belong to an HMO that covers every woman with breasts in the Rocky Mountain region...or so it seems).

I admit, I don't like these tests. It isn't the comfort factor. I really see that part as no big deal. It is the anxiety of the procedure that gets to me. Each year, I look in the mirror and see more of my mom staring back at me. I've got her chins. I prefer her shade of lipstick (that is when I bother to wear lipstick, just like her, I'm not big on beauty products). I hear words come out of my mouth and think "OMG! I sound like my MOM!". And now tomorrow, I hope and pray that these are the ONLY ways I've become like my mom.

But you know what THIS year I've decided that , if it turns out that there is another trait I've inherited from her, that's ok. Because like my mom, I"ve got a source of faith and a circle of friends and family that will get me through whatever challenges get thown my way. I am indeed blessed and ever so grateful for those blessing that have been bestowed on me!

A glimpse into my future?

www.youtube.com/watch?v=bhcA4Ry65FU

Furniture shopping: Can this marriage be saved?

Ah, shopping with a husband who doesn't like crowds nor does he like parting with his money has never been an easy task here in the House of Chang. But, trying to make a major purchase...well, I just hope it doesn't do us both in!

Actually, we agree on the usual sticky point of budget. And, we agree on what needs to go where and what we want the final look to feel like. So, we should be all set?

Oh no, not so fast. Sure, we can decide to move in a matter of weeks. We can decide and sell a rarely used vehicle in a matter of days. But, buying a couch for the family room? This might just take forever!

Hubby sits in a very comfie chair at the local coffee shop when he and the other geeks make their daily trek over for an afternoon espresso. He loves THE chair. Says it is the perfect fit. So, I figured the first order of business would be "find THE chair". We hit three furniture stores with little luck. He was like Goldilocks, racing through each place, first looking then shaking his head and giving the signal to move on troops, they don't have it here. One kindly saleswoman was trying her hardest but I just shook my head, knowing better than to try and sell him on anything other than what he had his mind set on finding.


Monday he calls the owner of the coffee shop to say "where did you buy THE chair?". The kind owner not only tells him but offers to retrieve the serial number once the morning rush subsides (can you tell this is a locally owned and operated business NOT one of the more popular and prevalent coffee shop chains?).

So, last night we went to THE store where they sell THE chair. Sadly, this store although known for their competitive pricing, stinks when it comes to hiring intellingent sales staff. We asked for help but about all they did was wander the showroom floor WITH us, in search of THE chair.

In the end, Hubby is realizing that perhaps it isn't just about THE chair. It is more about how he feels when he sits in it. And just maybe there is something else out there that fits the bill of being the perfect fit. So, after 4 stores, he actually starts to sit on furniture and on a couple pieces let out the sigh of "oh yeah, this is what I want to crash on after a day of dealing with change management and Big Blue Pain in the tookus protocol for network changes".

So, today the Things and I head back to the very first furniture store, now in search of THE look and FEEL of something so comfie you just get stuck in and don't want to move out of until the next morning...

That's what we should have been doing in the first place but hey I've figured out after over ten years of marriage to my very lovable hubby, you just have to go with the flow and realize that in the end it will all be ok.

aufWiedersehen Elsa!

It is with a tinge of sadness that I report the departure of our beloved Elsa. She joined our family some three years ago, as a Mother's Day gift for me. As both hubby and I are fans of the Sound of Music, we named her after the Baroness Elsa Schraeder because face it, Elsa did have a commanding presence.

Unfortunately, we had found over time that she was becoming a neglected member of our family. There just isn't enough driving going on to warrant her upkeep. Oh she was still very much loved and recognized in the community. But, she was spending most of her time under cover. And, with a girl who is aging as well as she is (she's a MB 420SEL, born in Germany in 1987), she deserves to be out there on the scene. So, hubby listed her for sale on Monday and a kindly man purchased her yesterday.

Thing Two was the sadder of the Two Things to see her go. At first we thought it was his more sensitive side being nostalgic over the road trips we'd taken in her (she really did handle 90mph nicely on the long trek from this Rocky Mountain scene to the Land of Cheese). Or perhaps his logical brain was moving too fast: if we got rid of the third vehicle, what would he be allowed to drive in some 9.5 years when he is allowed to drive?

But, then when Thing Two started to release bodily fluids yesterday morning I realized his emotional reaction was more than likely just a prodromal response to the incoming flu that has struck him down.

So, much as I would love to sit here and share more lovely Elsa stories, I've got some disinfecting to tend to...

You're too old Mom!

Yep, that's what Thing Two announced yesterday when we saw a cute little toddler at the store. Thing One asked "why don't we have a baby in our family?" I chuckled and started to point out all the things we can do these days now that both boys are a bit older. I even offered up the reality that if we had to buy diapers we wouldn't have had the extra money for the toy we'd just bought at Target. Thing One was immediately swayed in realizing that yep, life is just fine WITHOUT a cute baby in our family.

Then, Thing Two (who up until this point had been totally silent on the matter) piped up with "well, it doesn't really matter anyways, because Mom, you are TOO OLD to have a baby".

Ok I thought, he does have a point but HOW does he know that? So, I asked...not quite sure what I would get as his response. "What makes you say that?"

His response brought a smile and a sigh of relief to me "well, Mom, you aren't twenty anymore." Whew, dodged that bullet. But wait, he had one more pearl of Thing Wisdom "you have to be 20 to have a baby!".

Silently, I let the subject fade off to talk of transformers and baseball. But, we will definetly be re-visiting this matter of age at some point in the future. Because, this Momma doesn't not want to become a grandma in about 11-14 years. I can easily wait 21 years, thank you very much!

Ah, the places I've been...

create your own personalized map of the USA
or check out ourCalifornia travel guide

Yep, I've been a travelin' gal most of my life. The red reflects states that I've visited. I know that I've been through a couple of the remaining continental states but didn't include them if I only passed through the state en route to somewhere else.

It isn't that I purposely set out to see a vast majority of the United States. Nope, I need to give proper credit to the fact that my dad was a wanderlust. Growing up, we lived in the Land of Cheese (Wisconsin for those of you not familiar with various state knicknames) for most of my childhood with detours to Arizona, Georgia and Wyoming. Trust me, don't even try to figure out how or why we ended up in these very geographical and culturally different locales. If you knew my dad, you'd totally understand.

And when we weren't moving, we were visiting. Some of my fondest childhood memories include the road trips that we'd take. Dad worked for the school system which meant a long summer break. We'd hook up the trailer and off we'd go...Often being gone for two weeks at a time. As an adult looking back, I have a lot more respect for the planning my parents put forth to make these family vacations possible.

The rest of the visited red is courtesy of Uncle Sam. When I joined the Army, I thought I'd get to see the world. Instead, I got sent to the sandy (not!) shores of Monterey peninsula (while my former co-workers were pounding Saudi sand back in 1990). I tasted yummy TEX-Mex food in San Antonio. While in NC, I found that working night shift is a bit more bearable when you and your girlfriends decide that the next day we should all road trip to Myrtle Beach for the day. And, when I got sent to KY for what would be my final duty assignment, I realized Nashville was only a quick trip down the road and I managed to re-ignite my love of Country Music (although I didn't manage to spot any country stars!) And while serving my country, I met people from all over the country. This of course gave me another reason to travel: to go see where my friends came from.

Now that the Things are getting a little older, I hope to be able to create some similar road trips. We've already taken them to a fair amount of states but there is so much more to be seen in this great land of ours. It is always such a shame when I meet people that think or act as if the world ends at their state border. If you don't get out and see other parts of our country, you can't begin to appreciate the complexity of running it as one nation under God...

Ok, so I'll step off my soap box and go back to my quiet little world. But before I do, try to get out this summer and see something different than what you've always done on summer vacation. You'll be happy that you did...

Twas the Night before Track Off...

And all through the house..
Mom was quite certain she had it all wrong..
Those Things...
They just had Spring Break...
What do you mean,
Starting tomorrow I'll have them for
THREE WEEKS?

Ok, so my ability to rhyme is right up there with my dancing and singing skills.
But, at least you'll understand why I've not been updating my blog this week: I was a busy lady enjoying my last week of alone time.

Oh but wait, I also worked three days this week.

Yep, times are changing here at the House of Chang. For the first time in almost 7 years, I am working outside of the home. But, I think it is "time" and I'm excited about the possibilities this new job offers. And, the hours are a perfect fit to the Things very wacky school schedule.
I'd forgotten about some of the initial hiccups that go with starting a new job.
But all in all, it looks like it will be a good fit.

A Year of Wonders

Last summer (right around the time I started my blog), I read a great book by Geraldine Brooks called March. Last month, I learned Ms. Brooks had won the Pulitzer prize for fiction for this book. In talking to some other folks about this author and her award, we all agreed it was a well deserved win. But, I was one of the few who had read March. Most of the other women were commenting on the skills she demonstrated in her first fictional work, A Year of Wonders. They had concluded that based on how great that book was, March had to be equally well written and worthy of such prestigious award as the Pulitzer Prize. Well, somehow I'd missed the fact that she'd written a book before March and knew immediately what book I wanted to start reading.

The book tells the story of the village of Eyam in Derbyshire England and what its citizens did back in 1665 to prevent the spread of the Plague when it struck their village. The narration is provided by Anna, a young maid who works for the village minister and his wife.

Truly it is a fascinating story. Tragic in the numbers of citizens lost to this horrific infection. Yet, amazing in reading how the villagers made a very difficult decision to isolate themselves so as to prevent the infection from spreading to nearby communities. The faith it takes to make such a selfless decision. Well, I'm not sure I'm that strong of a person.

The story is historically based but fiction: so the author has created characters based on what she thinks they might have done during this time. She created some very vivid characters and the story itself felt very real.

Now, who shouldn't read this book? Well, for starters, if you are a germaphobe, I suggest you skip this one. The first night after I started reading the story, I had some pretty vivid dreams. Having watched Colonial House on PBS a few summers ago, I had a pretty good idea of the harsh living conditions of the time. Toss in something as disgusting as the plague, and you've got an icky setting for a story. The author manages to describe the conditions in a simple style but the images your mind creates are very vivid.

Also, if you are not of the believing type, I don't think you'd find the book to be as interesting as I did. For the citizens to make such a decision, they relied very heavily on their belief in God and the teachings of the Bible. The author makes a fair amount of references to the worship practices of the time and if you are turned off by a religious tone to books you read, you might want to skip this book. But, to be true to that period of time in history, the author would have been wrong to not address the role that the Church played in society.

But as for the rest of you, you simply must read A Year of Wonders....You'll be wondering long after you finish the book what you would have done had you been faced with similar decision. Would you be able to continue to live when all around you is nothing but sorrow and sadness?
I'm still wondering myself....long after having finished the book