My [BOYS]terous Life

SCAVENGER HUNT - 01.29.12

2012-01-28T22:19:00.001-06:00

I'm back again for the Scavenger Hunt.   I'm going to apologize in advance for all these photos. I really do intend on just doing one picture per category. Simple and to the point.
Yet, I always end up with a big mess of photos.
Sorry.
Really.

1. SMILE

I promise, we got that face all cleaned up after I put the camera down and focused on the bathing part!

2. STAND ALONE

I really had a hard time with this prompt. Initially, I took this photo. I though it was... meh.

Then I thought this one might work. I stopped and took this on a foggy morning. But, they're more of a group than alone, so I went back to the drawing board.

I spotted some ice fisherman..... out there on the ice alone.
I don't know. It kinda works, right?

Then, just this morning, we woke up to glorious sunshine, and a dusting of snow. I loved how this lone tree looked as a reflection.   Hopefully at least one of these work!

3. RUSTY OR SOMETHING OLD

I spotted a rusty old snow plow the other day. I loved that some love bird carved D+M on it. How cute is that? Okay, so it's on a rusty, dirty snow plow, but still.

4. ARTIFICIAL

We had an "artificial" birthday celebration last weekend because Mom didn't get a single photo of the real deal.

5. REPEATING PATTERN

I was a bit MACRO happy here.

That's all I got. I promise, NO MORE photos. For a day or two, anyway.
HAPPY SUNDAY!

Now go on over to Ashley's to check out more Scavenger Hunt goodies:

HI

2012-01-25T09:43:00.001-06:00

It's Wednesday. It's sunny out (cold, but I'll take the SUN!) I'm drinking my coffee. And I feel chatty.
Wanna join me?

I'm a day late for Virtual Coffee with Amy. Sadly, I've been absent for the coffee talk over there for months. I think I mentioned that I now work on Tuesday's, so my opportunity for chit-chatting is pretty much gone. Maybe I should shoot for Wednesday's, eh?

Anyway, how are things going in your world? How's the weather? The kids? I'm glad January is almost done. It seems like a blur of a month, doesn't it?

And it's been a weird January for me, this year. I always look forward to January 1st because it's a new start, a clean slate. But this year I just wasn't feeling it. I kept waiting for some motivation to hit me, some inspiration, something..... anything......

Finally, just this week, I've been clunked over the head with some good January juices.   A little late is better than never, right?     Sooo, I've been inspired and motivated and it feels good.

I'm back to doing my morning work-outs.    I think just starting there helps get everything else in line. I feel so much more energetic and capable and ready to handle what life throws at me when I get up, first thing, and work up a good sweat!

Oh and I'm setting a goal for 2012 to clean out every closet/drawer/toy bin and cabinet in this house. It's time. We've lived here for almost 12 years. I don't think I've ever lived in one home for so long. The problem with that, is that things tend to collect and then multiply.   So, I'm going through everything with the same tenacity as I would if a move was in our immediate future, which it isn't, but I'm trying to keep myself extra motivated. Plus, tossing stuff out is so therapeutic. It really feels good, you should try it!

What else?
Oh, this is BIG in my world. I got a new camera bag.  (HERE)

I am really liking it. I mean it's big and sort of reminds me of a diaper bag.
But, I can fit my camera AND my iPad in there as well as the few personal items I need. YAY.
I think this is bag is going to be my best pal.
I love the look of it too. I have to say, it is just soooo me!

Ahhh, just gulped down my last swig of coffee.
I'm off to finish getting ready.
This little guy and I.....

..... we have library story time soon.
You're jealous, aren't you. *wink*
And then it's lunch, and then I run him to school, and then pick him up, and then pick his brother up.
My day of shuttling kids resumes!

Thanks for chatting.
I think I just needed to unload a bit.
Have a WONDERFUL Wednesday!!!!!

Linked up:
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SEVEN!

2012-01-23T22:19:00.002-06:00

Well, we had another Birthday in our house. I'm feeling a bit guilty that I haven't posted about it sooner.
My Chase Man turned SEVEN.

I think I've done better with this birthday than those in the past. I am usually either a weepy mess or in total denial, or a crazy mix of both. But I took this one in stride. Maybe I've toughened myself up over the years or maybe it's because my little guy has been acting so much like a big guy for so long that I've accepted the whole - he IS going to get older - thing.   Who knows.

So, it was a good day. He was in school all day. (Which seemed strange. For the first time, he spent most of his BIG day away from us. Sniff.)   He was beyond anxious to get to the present opening once he got home.

All he could talk about for the past month was a Kindle Fire.
I'm not even sure how he learned about a Fire, but it was the ONLY thing he wanted.
So, we caved and got it for him. It's basically an iPad. Just smaller. It has access to the Internet. I still have reservations about putting that thing in the hands of a 7 year old. But with close supervision, we are going with it.

His big selling point was that he could READ on it. And we are holding him to it in order to earn gaming time.

He was thrilled with his new toy. And, I have to admit, it is pretty cool!

Then we went out for a dinner celebration at our local Japanese grill. Chase loves Chinese/Japanese food. And they really get a kick out of the entertaining cooking display.

He even tried out the chopsticks.

My eyebrows feel warm just looking at this picture!

The next day, we had a little party at our house with 8 of his friends.
There was a blizzard raging outside, but all of his friends still made it.

I took ONE measly photo during the party because Daddy ended up having to plow snow all night. That left me, ALONE, with 10 kids.
I thought it would still be fine. I mean, I could certainly handle 10 kids, right?!?

WRONG! It was total and complete CHAOS.
But, we survived and I think the kids had a good time. When they weren't trying to kill each other, that is. (What is with little boys and the wrestling?!?!?) We played all of our Minute to Win-it Games and had cake and ice-cream and presents, of course. And when 8pm struck, I finally exhaled as all the parents collected their children, with (MIRACULOUSLY) little to no injuries!

Other than the Kindle Fire, he told me he wanted snow for his Birthday. We got 7 inches on Friday night and he spent Saturday afternoon snowboarding with his Dad. I think he had a PERFECT Birthday!    I sure hope he did anyway.

SCAVENGER HUNT [01.22.12]

2012-01-21T22:06:00.001-06:00

It's hunting time again and I think I found what I was looking for.
Or close enough anyway.

1. SUNSET

Is it me, or have we had some AMAZING sunsets this winter? I wish I could capture them all, but I am usually in the midst of cooking dinner when I sneak a peek at the sky out my kitchen window. This particular evening, even with dinner on the stove, I dashed out and drove down the street to get a better view of this amazing sky.

2. BLACK AND WHITE

I got the opportunity to take some pics of this little cutie the other day. I loved this one converted to black and white. More from the session HERE.

3. A DAY IN MY LIFE

Snow shoveling pictures seemed appropriate for this prompt.
We've finally gotten the snow we've been wishing for.

And one of Dylan yanking on my hair. That's certainly a good depiction of A Day in My Life!

4. FOUR

I wanted to get a cute photo of my favorite four year old. So I asked him to pose for me and this is what he did.

Seriously, he is a total NUT. But, I still found it fitting.
Maybe because there are 4 Nemo's across his backside???

Oh, and I liked this one for FOUR too. Taken at our Birthday celebration dinner for the Chase MAN. He turned SEVEN on Thursday. More on that real soon.

5. COLORFUL

A bowl full of balloons. They're certainly colorful, aren't they?

Phew... that was fun.

Next week's items include:

1. SMILE
2. STAND ALONE
3. RUSTY OR SOMETHING OLD
4. ARTIFICIAL
5. REPEATING PATTERN
Wow, this could be a tough week.
Anyway, I can't wait to see what everyone else came up with.
Head over to Ashley's to check out all the fun:

SNOW GUYS

2012-01-18T23:02:00.002-06:00

As much as I am not all that into snow activities, I have to say that we had a ball this past weekend out enjoying it. We have waited sooooo long for it. There was just NO containing these guys. They were over the moon excited about the snow, the snow, the snow, THE SNOW!!!!

We sledded, we snowboarded, we "snowmobiled", we tasted yummy snow, we even made yellow snow... but, no where near where the tasting was go on! Promise. ( And, of course, you know that by "we," I really mean "the boys" while I sat back and took photographs the entire time, right?)

So here's what I captured during our snow adventures.

Catching a little air on the jump!

And one last one of me, braving the cold temps to do what I love to do..... take pictures!

Linked up:

SCAVENGER HUNT 01.15.12

2012-01-14T22:55:00.003-06:00

It seems like forever since I did a Scavenger Hunt.
Doesn't it?
I have to tell you, I haven't been able to get back into any sort of rhythm this January.

(If you read that as: I AM BEING A BIG LAZY BUTT then you are pretty much RIGHT ON.)

But I did manage to put together some pictures for this week's Hunt.
In all fairness, I, er.....took some of these the week before but just now am getting around to editing them.

(You're reading: LAZY BUTT again, aren't you?!?! Hee.)

Okay, so I'll spare you any more excuses and cut to it.......

1. STACKED UP

2. WINTER WONDERLAND

3. SWEET

At my good friend, Melissa's baby shower. It was magnificent!
And the yummy cupcakes were handcrafted by this talented Lady.

4. HOLE

5. FROZEN

Happy Sunday out there!
Linked up:

10 ON 10 - JANUARY

2012-01-10T20:34:00.001-06:00

This might be the most boring TEN ever. I'm sorry. I was at work.
I started out thinking that I could still make it interesting.
But, I don't think I quite accomplished that.

I am stifling a yawn just looking at these...

More exciting stuff next month.
I promise.

Head over here for lots more......

ICE, ICE BABY

2012-01-05T07:13:00.000-06:00

As these kids get older, I am running out of 1st's to report on.
But, here's one that we have never done.

Ice skating.
Yikes.

Coordination isn't one our genetic strong points, so I have to say I was a bit nervous. I watched from the bench, because clearly strapping blades onto my feet would be a catastrophe. Besides, I was hoping to capture some good bloopers for America's Funniest Home Video.

Amazingly, everyone did pretty darn good. So, you won't be seeing us on national TV anytime soon.

Chase started out pretty slow. Hugging the walls and hanging onto Dad for dear life.

You can see Dylan cheering him on in the reflection.

Dylan is my bench warmer. He is very reluctant to participate in most things.

But, Daddy begged and pleaded........

...... and we eventually got him to put some skates on.

He only made it one time around. But, hey, at least he tried.

By the end of it, Chase was whizzing around there pretty good.
And did I mention, there were NO injuries.
That's a success, in my book!
Linked up:

TOP 10 AND 11 OF 11

2011-12-30T14:11:00.000-06:00

I've been seeing all these amazing posts floating around out there of people's top 11 photos of 2011. I was all set to get on board. I loved the idea of looking back and selecting a handful of photos from the year to highlight. However, wanting to do it and actually doing it are two totally different things. I have been gazing - glassy eyed - at my flickr photostream for days now trying to select my top 11. This is HARD! (And clearly, I have wayyyyy to much time on my hands!)

So, I'm just going to commit. This back and forth could go on for many more days, if I let it! So here you go...

*****DRUM ROLL PLEASE*****

The TOP 11 PHOTOS of my KIDS for 2011. In no particular order:

And because I'm extra efficient *cough * eh,hem* or because I try to be extra efficient and usually fall flat on my face. Here are my top 10 photos of 2011 for the next You Capture challenge.
Again, in no particular order:

Well there you go! That was fun. Mostly. Except for that painfully hard decision making stuff.
I can't wait to see what my camera finds in 2012!

HUGS to all and have a WONDERFUL and SAFE New Year!

Linked up:

INSTA-FRIDAY

2011-12-30T07:19:00.000-06:00

It's Friday! And it is raining. booo..... We're due, I suppose. Sunny and glorious and hovering near 40 is just not gonna last forever here in the Midwest. We enjoyed it immensely while it lasted, though.

Here's what my iPad captured (using the insta-gram app, I'm -myboysterouslife) over the past week....

1. I really need to find some other photo inspiration. I find myself photographing straws a lot. This sounds like something I should be telling a therapist! LOL
2. Lemon, Orange, Lime basking in that wonderful sun I was speaking of
3. Baking
4. Hubby brought this home
5. I'm in trouble....
6. An apple snack. Gotta squeeze in some nutrition somewhere!
7. Christmas Eve sunshine.
8. Christmas Eve sky - what a fantastic night!
9. Christmas Morning.... a frenzy of playing
10. And gaming
11. And guitar jamming
12. And one of me, feeling extra PLUMP after eating ALL day!
13. Chili fixing
14. A boy and his cat
15. I'm CURIOUS about this fact... how about you?

Enjoy your FRIDAY and have a HAPPY AND SAFE NEW YEAR!

LINKED UP:

CHRISTMAS WAS FULL OF......

2011-12-28T23:09:00.002-06:00

I think my husband described it best; Christmas was FAST AND FURIOUS.

It was..... full of impatiently asking "Can we open now? Can we open now?? CAN WE OPEN PRESENTS NOW?"

It was..... full of happy faces!

.... and LOTS and LOTS of excitement.

..... paper flying everywhere. (Seriously, most of my pictures were just blurs!)

...... SUGAR consumption. (See my last post.)

..... frantically unpackaging, unboxing, un-zip-tieing, assembling - assembling - assembling. Santa may have been in trouble with Dad for getting some not-so-easy-to-put-together gifts. Opps.

...... pure glee!

..... wishing we had snow. (Dylan got a cool new sled and Chase, a snowboard.)

..... lots and lots of gaming.

....... guitar jamming.

....... bullets flying! (Those guns come with eye protection for GOOD reason!)

...... injuries. (Seriously, it only took 2 minutes before we had screaming and crying.)

....... working on our sharing skills. (This is Dylan's new Easy Rider.... he had a complete melt-down when we insisted that he let brother try it out. And then Chase had a complete melt-down when we made him give it back!)

..... more SUGAR consumption.

........ SUNSHINE!

...... trying out the new toys outside. (On Christmas Day? In Chicago? This is crazy!)

...... tradition.

..... Christmas pretties.

.... celebrating with Family.

.......Good FOOD. Too much good food!

.... another round of presents.

..... kids that couldn't sleep that night. (I suspect over stimulation from TOO much gaming!)

...... all things Christmas. Just as it should be.

Ours was fantastic. And I hope yours was too!

Linked up:

I NEED AN INTERVENTION.....

2011-12-28T06:56:00.003-06:00

..... of the sugar variety!

Seriously, I'm not kidding.

While, I really should be posting about our Christmas..... I feel that skipping over our cookie making day would be a disservice to all the cookie lovers out there. You know who you are. (I'm thinking that really everyone falls into this category, no?)

Just to clear the air before we get going with this post. I am NOT a baker, I hardly ever pull out my Kitchen Aid Mixer. And it's become crystal clear to me exactly WHY I don't bake.   Because, er.... I have ZERO self control when it comes to yummy baked goodies.

My waist line is literally begging me to never bake again.

See all these guys?
75% of them went straight to my tummy. Not inside my tummy. Layered on the outside.   Gross, right?

Still, I think it was worth every ounce. My mouth is watering just looking at those babies!

So, now that we cleared all that up, on with the details.
The yellow ones are the ~~evil~~ Pioneer Woman's Citrus Butter Cookies. (Recipe here.)

Yes, I know that hers don't look look like a preschooler decorated them. I mean, she is, after all, a pro. I could blame it on the kids, but in all honesty, they didn't even help me decorate. I botched them up all on my own. It's just that I had soooo much extra icing and since it was so YUMMY, I couldn't waste it. I kept dipping and drizzling until this mess happened.

Still, SUPER delicious, especially if you love lemon/limey stuff, which I do.
You'll need all these guys, and a zester.

And then, because I'm COMPLETELY crazy, we also made a giant batch our standard Sugar Cookies. Because that is what we traditionally do.   And traditions must be upheld. Especially at Christmas time.

We always, always, always make Grandma Pamma's sugar cookies.
Don't tell her, but we used a slightly different variation this time.

I found THIS RECIPE online at Annie's Eats, and it is very, very close to Grandma Pamma's.
She probably wouldn't even notice a difference!
But don't mention it, just in case.

Anyway, I just had this overwhelming NEED to share these two recipes with all my fellow Cookie FANATICS out there. I would highly recommend making both of these guys. Not all in one day, though, because I was totally pooped by the time I was done.    But, it was worth it. Just look at how cute our Santa cookie plate was.

Now, my Friends, go forth, and BAKE!
Me? I'm actually going to go forth and TREADMILL. Blah.

CAPTION IT....

2011-12-26T22:43:00.002-06:00

I was editing through all the photos from Christmas and came upon this gem. My little guys is such a nut! I just have so many captions to go with this one.... I seriously couldn't pick......

-I see London, I see France. I see Dylan's underpants. And....er, I think they see me back.
-Here's looking at your kid!
-Rut-Roh.
-Don't you just love being able to make eye contact with your kid's rear end!

Hee....
Feel free to add any that come to mind!

ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS........

2011-12-22T07:49:00.000-06:00

........IS MY TWO FRONT TEETH!

I know, I know. I am a mean Mommy. But, I just couldn't resist! How many years will we be able to pull this one off? One. Right. So, I managed to get him on board for a few quick photos, showing off his gappy grin.

This kids are both off of school now. We are gearing up *BIG TIME* for the big day.

The boys have had parties and play groups and celebrated with just about everyone that they could celebrate with.

And me, well, I am getting "into" it much more than they other day when I posted.   A few Mommy's nights out have helped..... you can't go wrong with wine and lots of laughing and giggling!

Oh, and I have been wearing my Santa Hat. And the Egg Nog is chilling in the fridge.

We even donated lots of presents to the Toys for Tots.  We had the boys pick them out and then fork them over. A tough exercise for 4 and 6 year olds (only a few tears were shed), but I think that they did understand the whole idea of helping out those that are less fortunate!

So, back to my title up there, I haven't really put much thought into this, as I have been so consumed with making sure that everyone else gets what they want for Christmas.   What do *I* want for Christmas??    Hmmm.....
-A day with no fighting/bickering/whining
-Grateful Children
-Happy faces and lots of laughs
-Cuddles and Love from my Honey
-Health
-Good Food and Spirits
-Snow!

So, that should be pretty easy. Well, except for that first one... and the last one.
Oh well. I still consider myself one pretty LUCKY Lady!

I hope you all have a FANTASTIC Christmas.
HUGS all around!!!!
linked up:

COFFEE TALK

2011-12-20T10:49:00.001-06:00

It's Tuesday.
And, I am indeed drinking my coffee.
And, my little finger just wandered over to the "New Post" button and clicked it. (That crazy finger!)
So, here I am for coffee chat.
It seems like it has been soooooo long.   (Boo.)
And while I am glad I'm here.... I don't feel very chatty. (Which is ODD for me!)

You see, it's almost Christmas.
And I'm kinda sad about that.
I can't seem to get into the mood..... I'm just not feeling it.
I blame the crazy weather.

Luckily, we are pretty ready for the big day. Aside from the wrapping bit.
I cheated this year and bought lots and lots of those cutesy boxes. I think I will be adding tape and some ribbons and keep it at that. Is that totally lame?   I should clarify, the boys gifts are getting wrapped, I am just doing the boxes for the adult gifts. It will save me a lot of time.... AND it is environmentally friendly! (Don't you love how I find ways to justify my laziness!?!)

Oh, and I am cooking on Christmas day, so I should probably think about our meal. And we need to bake our Santa cookies. (The first batch disappeared!) So I guess there is still plenty to do.
How about you? Are you ready? Are you "feeling it" this year? Does is seem like it is going way too quickly?

I'm determined next year to jump on the "Elf on the Shelf" bandwagon. Maybe that will help liven up the pre-holiday festivities. (Or at the very least, ease my Mommy guilt about not doing the fun Elf thing!) And, I want to also do an Advent calendar. I'm putting reminders on my 2012 calendar now, so it doesn't sneak up on me!

So, that's it. We will be getting the final touches ready for the big day and hopefully I can get myself in the Christmas mindset by then!    I think I am going to sport a Santa Hat and only listen to Christmas music for the remainder of the week. That should do the trick!
I hope you are having a wonderful holiday season. CHEERS!!!

LINKED UP:

G-MONEY

2011-12-19T07:31:00.000-06:00

I guess I shouldn't be shocked, since I live in a house full of boys, to walk in the house and find my sweet little gingerbread man transformed into "G-Money."

BOYS.

**sigh**

THE HUNT [12.18.11]

2011-12-17T23:03:00.002-06:00

Hey, It's Sunday.... the day that we Scavenge.
I found what I was looking for....(or at least some that I can wedge -with a little force - into said categories!) so here goes.........

1. WHAT IS IT?

Can you believe your eyes? We got some SNOW.

Always top with a big fancy bow.

2. CHILDREN/FUR BABIES SLEEPING

Zonked out in the car.

3. JOY

These two little guys were so jazzed about the dusting of snow we got. Hey, at least it's a start!

4. WINDOW

A few from our outing to Chicago last Sunday.

5. HALF

Can you believe we are closing in fast on Christmas? It is just going so fast this year. Enjoy your week ahead! It's time to slow down and really savour the pre-holiday fun.

Head to Ashley's for lots more scavengy fun:

INSTA-FRIDAY

2011-12-16T15:14:00.000-06:00

My week, through the eyes of my iPad............

1. Blinded by the light - a selfie
2. Computing
3. In recovery... with my Mother-In-Law
4. Waiting for slow-poke Costco to open
5. Still waiting and it's still raining. Are we in Chicago or Seattle???
6. Monkey Joes
7. Boats - these could come in handy with all the rain we are getting
8. Chase's MASTERPIECE! They do such great stuff in Art class
9. Bath time with Shamu
10. At work
11. Ready for his Christmas Party at Preschool
12. Teacher gift bags

LINKED UP:

IT REALLY IS MAGNIFICENT...

2011-12-14T22:40:00.000-06:00

I really love venturing into the City. My husband, who isn't nearly as keen on crowds/tall buildings/hoards of people/traffic as I am, suspects that my zeal is simply that it gives me the opportunity to take a zillion pictures. And while there is THAT, because I did take a zillion and TWO photos, there's also so much more. I think I love it because it is so drastically different from where we live. Sometimes I crave different..... variety.... change..... mainly so I can take photos of it. But still!

We wanted to see the holiday lights and window displays and all that good stuff. It was a relatively nice day, so we seized the opportunity to get out there and make some memories. Ironically, we didn't really see the window displays we were hoping to see. State Street Macy's is the place for that, NOT Michigan Avenue Macy's. Who knew? Well, the majority of Chicagoans know, just not us.

Oh well, we still found lots of good stuff.....

We did find the GIGANTIC Marilyn Monroe. I'll spare you the backside shot.

We also found Lego Land! Bonus.

And after wandering the city for a few hours, we felt the overwhelming urge to partake in some yummy deep-dish Pizza. That's just what happens in Chicago.

Unfortunately, we had a very pouty kid going in. He couldn't eat a thing because his giant front tooth was hanging on by a thread........ until he popped that baby out. He was so excited that he could finally take a giant bite of Pizza!

After dinner, it was dark enough to really get a feel for how magnificent the Magnificent Mile is this time of year. WOW.
And then, THEN...... we went to the Lincoln Park Zoo................. and ZABAMMMMM those lights were REALLY SOMETHING!

We were at a Zoo, so there were also a few animal sightings. How exciting!

So that was our Sunday afternoon adventure.
It was fun, maybe a new annual tradition perhaps?
And next year, we will even find the window displays!

LINKED UP:

THE HUNT [12.11.11]

2011-12-11T08:46:00.000-06:00

Hello there Scavenging Friends.
It's Sunday morning and I am scrambling again to get my Hunt up and posted.
So, I am going to get right to it!

I loved this week's prompts. All so festive! I feel like I am finally getting into the spirit around here.
Now, all we need is SNOW! *sigh*

1. LESS IS MORE

This is probably more of a "More is More" shot. I was taking photos of just the apple, and when I caught sight of the reflection in my counter top, I had to include that as well.

2. HOLIDAY LIGHTS

3. ORNAMENTS

4. CUP OF CHEER

I walked by this adorable mug at Target the other day and couldn't resist plopping it in my cart. I love it!! My new muse :D

5. NATIVITY

I pulled out our Nativity set for the first time in, ohhh, six years. Let's hope all the wise men survive my children.

So, that's what I found for this week's hunt.
I hope you are all having a wonderful weekend.

HUGS.

Head over here for more lovely photos....

TEN ON TEN [DECEMBER 2011]

2011-12-10T16:56:00.002-06:00

A day in my house means....

.....waking up to the sounds of someone getting their breakfast ready.
(We're creating a monster with the freshly squeezed OJ. He's hooked!)

.....doing lots of tree admiring.

....eating post-breakfast snacks at 9:00 am in race-car driver costumes. The costume is mandatory!

.... cleaning off finger prints and tooth paste splatter. It will stay that way for 3.4 seconds. *sigh*

..... just getting out of the shower at 11:00 am. Lazy morning. Well, lazy and lots of cleaning.

..... getting beautiful "gifts" as early Christmas presents. Chase folded this up for us and put a bow on top. I love the little black cat under the tree. He drew that because our cat has taken up permanent residence under our tree. And is it just me or is Santa looking a little Popish with the hat?

..... Dragging your kid to basketball practice.

...... dodging Nerf bullets. Dad wasn't so lucky!

......getting a few of the presents in the giant present tower wrapped!

Chase: Mom, are any of those presents for me?
Me: Shaa.. No!
Chase: I know one is! You have your lying face on!

.... capturing the last of the sun.

LINKED UP:

INSTA - FRIDAY

2011-12-08T22:38:00.004-06:00

It's Insta-Friday time.... which means I'm here to share a bunch of random peaks into our world.
Aren't you glad you stopped by? hee......

1. "Mom, I feel a little SCIENCE in me!" He says holding a little science kit I bought ages ago. They got the light bulb to work! Success.
2. SMILE. I can't get this kid to act normal in front the camera these days.
3. It's mid-December and still NO snow. Just rain. My boys are ticked!
4. Lamp
5. Horses in a field
6. Scoping out the DVD selection at the Library
7. He's so proud that he spelled his name with magnets
8. And even put on a puppet show for Mom
9. Pretty toy at the library. Geesh, I am glad I brought my iPad in to the library.
10. Red light. Yup, took a photo. Probably not supposed to be doing that!
11. LUNCH. So good....
12. The kid loves RED. He said he is learning to make graffitti. Did I mention he thinks he is 16?

Linked up: Insta-Friday

And one more share.
This was taken last Sunday.
I didn't take the photo, I actually wasn't even there.
Dave took the boys to do Breakfast with Santa while I was doing a photo-shoot.
Can you believe this? After years of kicking and screaming kids during Santa visits, these two are actually SMILING!!! I was floored.

Okay, so neither of them would actually sit on Santa's lap. But, hey, they ARE smiling.
Baby steps, my Friends!

HAPPY FRIDAY!

THE HUNT [12.04.11]

2011-12-04T19:09:00.001-06:00

Hello!
I'm late.
GHAH. I hate being late. Especially for my favorite link-up.
But, I'm a firm believer in: Better LATE than NEVER.

So, here goes nothing!

1. PORTRAIT

This is from a recent photo shoot (more HERE) that I did for one of my former college roommates. Her oldest son is almost TEN. I can't believe it. He is going to be a heart-breaker in a few years.

2. NOSTALGIC

There's nothing more nostalgic than decorating a little gingerbread house with my little guys and my mom. She couldn't resist buying them one while they were visiting.

3. TIME

My Dad celebrated his 65th Birthday on Wednesday. And since they were in town visiting, we insisted that he partake in some of our birthday traditions. Like, kicking off the day with candles and singing with his waffles.

4. FULL OF LIGHT

Okay, I have to confess here. I got a new LENS. I have been wanting the 50mm 1.4 lens for a long time. I dropped many no-so-subtle hints and low-and-behold a little box showed up the other day. I knew what it was and I knew I should put it in the pile to wrap. But, I couldn't contain myself. I had to bust it out and start playing. I love how much LIGHT it lets in. My first victim, the Christmas tree. I love the amazing bokeh you can get with this lens.

Do you think I can just wrap up one of my old lenses? Certainly, no one would notice, right?!?!
Santa's putting me on the Naughty List at this very moment.

5. FULL OF MOTION

Every winter we put out a bird feeder and sit back and watch 'em go at it. These birdies, there had to be at least 50 of them, were going crazy for the bird food. I tried to catch them in motion but those wings move so fast. The birds just ended up looking like big blurs.

So, that's what I came up with.
I can't wait to go check out the other entries.

Next week should be a festive hunt. Here's what I'll be on the look out for:
1. Less is More
2. Holiday Lights
3. Ornaments
4. Cup of Cheer
5. Nativity

SANTA'S LITTLE HELPERS

2011-11-30T22:42:00.002-06:00

Well, we are in full CHRISTMAS mode already. Cards have been mailed, the decorating done, the cookies made. Phew we have been busy little elves around here. Now, I need to tackle the shopping. *grumble*

But, let's not focus on that right now. Let's focus on the the photos I took of our long post-Thanksgiving weekend. I just LOVE this time of year. The house is sparkling inside and out. The boys keep prancing around in their Santa and elf hats.

They even gave each other a little brotherly love, these are RARE moments - let me tell you. Christmas brings out the best in EVERYONE.

We are all on a bit of a sugar high from the loads of cookies we made the other day. Ahhh.... bliss ;D I think we are going to have to re-make those babies a little closer to Christmas if Santa expects to get a few.

And the best part is that my parents are in town, so we are squeezing in as much of this pre-Christmas fun as we can before they hit the road.

And after all that hard work, a little relaxing was in order.

I hope you are finding the season as delightful as we are.

Fa-La-La-La-Laaaa... La-La-La-LA!

Linked up:

MY WEEKEND AWAY

2011-11-28T22:25:00.001-06:00

Sometimes I think, I'm crazy. (Okay, I know I am crazy! )
I take ONE get-away weekend a year, and each year I spend it working. (And working hard, I might add.)

To most people sitting, stooped over a table, with pictures and paper and ribbon and stickers scattered about, doesn't sound like much fun. I get it. I do.   But, honestly, I always look forward to our scrapweekends (this is the 6th year that we have been doing this) but this year I was just a bit apprehensive.

I am so far behind. (You know, now that I take 30,000 pictures each year, all hope is lost for getting caught up scrapbooking. EVER.) And getting everything organized to bring is overwhelming, and my in-laws were both having medical problems and really needed my husband's help and I was having some serious guilt issues about just taking off.

Unable to cancel at such short notice, I threw a bunch of stuff together and hit the road. I went and I am so glad I did. There's something about sitting in your jammies all weekend, getting waited on hand and foot by our fantastic hostess, Mary Kim, eating the most delicious home-cooked meals, chatting - chatting- chatting (non-stop), getting all those good creative juices flowing, meeting new friends and catching up with old ones, and having a stack of memories memorialized at the end of it all. It's just plain good for the soul.

Melissa and Sarah, my scrapping partner's in crime.
I invited Katie, a fellow blogger, that I had never even met. She is such a brave soul, she took me up on my invite. And I'm so glad she did. We had a great time getting to know each other.

For Sunday Brunch we always get fancy hats to wear.   Notice I'm trying to cover up my crazy hair and make-up free face - just one of the many perks of a girl's get-away weekend.

I came home more tired than when I left (we stay up WAYYY too late when we are there) but I was happy and rejuvenated and STUFFED! It doesn't get much better than that.

THE HUNT 11.27.11

2011-11-26T22:43:00.000-06:00

Hello Hunters!
I missed you last week. I hate missing the weekly hunt. But, I was away scrapbooking and couldn't tear myself away because I was on a serious mission.

So, here is what I found this week...........
1. WAITING

Waiting to be peeled. Chase did most of the peeling this year. SCORE.

2. FOLIAGE

3. CANDID

Making Christmas cookies with Grandma.

4. KNIFE, SPOON, or FORK

An amazing meal created by our hostess, Marykim, at The Paper Dollhouse.

Setting the table for Thanksgiving. The boys were so in awe of Grandma's antique silverware.

5. RULE OF THIRDS

This is probably not the best example, but I did try to offset my focal point to follow the rule of thirds. Of course, I don't always follow rules!

I did get a few of the shots from last week's weeks hunt. This is about as far as I got....

1. MAINLY ONE COLOR

2. AROUND THE HOUSE

3. REFLECTION

4. WRITING......
(Didn't happen... boo.)

5. WATER

So, that was almost two week's worth.
I am feeling a little more caught up now!

Find more Scavenger Fun over here:

IT'S FRIDAY

2011-11-25T23:16:00.001-06:00

Okay, I know, I have been slacking here in Blogland.

You know your slacking when even your hubby (who isn't all that into this blogging stuff) says, "Um, Honey, your blog has been pretty lame lately!"
He calls it like he sees it, folks. I love that about him. Most of the time, anyway. Just don't ask him how the new recipe you tried turned out.

Anywhoo, I'll attempt to make this fun and exciting and NOT lame. But I'm not making any promises.

So, how was your Thanksgiving? Did you survive? I really would have loved to do the pre and post Thanksgiving weekend weigh-in. Just out of morbid curiosity. Probably best that I didn't.

So, even though it is Friday, let's pretend that it is still Thursday so I can jot down all the things that came to mind that I was grateful for this year.

-My family. You can't NOT start there, right?
But honestly, they ROCK. All of 'em. And they're pretty darn cute too.

-The fact that my in-laws made it to Thanksgiving dinner even though they have both been having lots of health issues.

-My health and the health of my loved ones. Totally have been taking for granted what a blessing good health is!

-My sister who came and washed lots and lots of dishes

-The fact that my parents got to join us this year for Thanksgiving. We haven't had a family Thanksgiving with my parents in probably 5 years. It's so good to all be together.

-My hubby, who let me sneak away last weekend (all weekend) to go scrapbooking with friends. (Still need to get that posted!)

-Happiness. I can't imagine living life without being Happy. I have my down moments, don't get me wrong, but the happy ones still tip the scales. :D

-An abundance of so much. How fortunate we are to have warm homes and full bellies and so many extras beyond that.

-Chocolate! If you LOOOOVE chocolate, try these guys.

-Laughter. It's just plain good for the soul.

-Dirty faces.

-Technology. I have to say, I do love me some technology. It was pretty darn cool that we got to FaceTime chat with my brother and his family on Thanksgiving day. The boys were tickled to see their cousins!

Okay, that was still lam-ish... but I am rushing to get this up.
I'll try to do better next time, Sweetie!

Enjoy your weekend.

I AM THANKFUL FOR???

2011-11-22T23:09:00.000-06:00

Chase's top 8 things that he is grateful for.....

1. The World
2. the Gravitey (So we don't float away, Mom!)
3. My Mom & Dad
4. God
5. Trees
6. Bees (Because they make flowers.)
7. Houses
8. T.V. (Because it keeps me entertained.)

Oh, to be 6 again!

While waiting for Dylan to get out of preschool yesterday, I noticed the list of what each kid was most grateful for in his class. Dylan's #1 one thing: My Brother. Awww.... my heart just about melted right there. You'll notice that Dylan's name doesn't appear anywhere on Chase's list. Poor guy. I guess it comes with the "little brother" territory.

Anyway, I wanted to send out a quick HOLLA and tell you that I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving Holiday. I love this time of year, it gives me the chance to ~~EAT LOTS AND LOTS OF FOOD~~ ~~SHOP TILL WE DROP~~ reflect on our many, many blessings. I heard something the other day that stuck, and bears repeating: What if you woke up tomorrow and only had that for which you were thankful for today.
I love that.

Well, at the very least, we would have gravity. And bee's and T.V. too.
I think we'd be in fine shape! HA.

HAVE A HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

A CAMERA DATE AT CUNEO

2011-11-17T08:16:00.002-06:00

Sometimes a date with your camera is just what you need.
To find some inspiration, some MoJo, some "ME" time.

I mentioned in the last post that Teresa (from Tiaras & Tantrums) and I met up on Sunday to tour this old mansion and grounds. It was such an incredible place. We had a blast. It was fun to get together with someone who is just as trigger happy as me!

Here are a few photos of what we found during our tour there.

I took so many more photos, but didn't get to editing them all.
Thanks for stopping by to take a peek.

(Any Chicagoan's out there that are interested in joining us for "camera dates" let me know. We will hopefully be doing to his again soon!)

Linked up:

THE HUNT [11.13.11]

2011-11-12T22:52:00.001-06:00

It's time again to share my finds for this week's scavenger hunt. I'm not sure I did these categories justice, but....well, this is what you're getting.

1. BEFORE AND AFTER - USING PROCESSING

This is how my shot looks SOOC. Mmm.... pretzel rods + nutella + sprinkles = oneheckofagood snack

I thought the original could use a bit of a boost though. I made some minor adjustments to contrast/white balance/etc in the raw editor. Then I cropped it down and added a texture to try to liven up that blah grey background. I rarely ever use textures. That must change pronto! Another thing I try to catch myself on is to adjust the vertical lines. So, I straightened out the pretzel just a bit to make it straight.

2. OPPOSING LINES

I am pretty sure this prompt is best suited for architecture type shots, but I found my inspiration out in nature.

3. CUSTOM BOKEH

Not sure if this is "custom" bokeh, but I really liked the regular old run-of-the-mill bokeh in this shot. You can check out more from that session over HERE.

Oh yeah, that's my new pet project. A blog for just photography gigs!

4. WHICH PAIR OF SHOES SHOULD I WEAR?

Oh ghah, I totally blew it on this prompt. I forgot about this one somehow. I did, though, take a picture of some shoes today.... so this is pretty lame, but it's all I got.

5. LITTLE FEATURES

Some photos of Dylan and I during an exciting round of Candyland. I pulled out my camera and captured all sorts of little features and obviously one BIG personality.

So that rounds out my set.
I hope you have a great Sunday.
I am going to plan ahead for next week and get my hunting in early.
I have a photo outing planned this Sunday with Tiara's & Tantrums, a fellow Scavenger Hunter, so I am sure we will both be on the look out ;D
Check out lots more finds over at Ashley's blog:

BITS OF THIS AND THAT....

2011-11-11T13:06:00.000-06:00

Hey there Blog.
I haven't forgotten about you, promise.
Just haven't been visiting so much this week. Darn, the time just gets away from me.
Here are a few insta-grams from the week. Enjoy!!

1. Ssssss
2. A glance behind me
3. Riding his bike
4. HELLO - That's me!
5. Leafy
6. Shooting hoops
7. Delish! Cappuccino BLAST. An addiction of mine.
8. Shopping for wood on a Saturday night. We are so EXCITING.
9. Leafy. Again.
10. You sunk my BATTLESHIP
11. He wrote his name, out of the blue, like a dozen times.
12. Sending out a bazillion mailers at work.

HUGS to all.
Have a fantastic weekend.

THE HUNT [11.06.11]

2011-11-05T23:06:00.001-05:00

Yahoo... it's that time again.
Time to do a little SCAVENGER HUNTING!

Before I start, I'm just going to remind everyone that we get an extra hour of sleep tonight. SCORE. I'm totally sneaking into Chase's room and resetting his clock so that I actually- just maybe- might be able to take advantage of Daylight Savings Time this year.   Wish me luck.

So, I'm catching up on a little TIVO and photo editing and deciding what photos to post here for the Hunt. Does anyone watch The Middle? That show is seriously LAUGH. OUT. LOUD FUNNY STUFF.     So if I toss in some random...tee hee's... we'll blame it on The Middle.

1. FOOD

This particular food is like its own currency in our house.   Powerful stuff.

2. PURPLE

We had the most beautiful sunset the other night. Darn those houses in my way!

3. IN DISGUISE

Chase in his Zombie-Mummy costume. He loved this particular costume because it had a battery pack attached and actually lit up when he talked.

Fun with FUN glasses.

4. SHAPES

I was really stumped with this prompt until I took the kids to the park. Soooo many fun shapes. I couldn't decide... so you get a few.

5. PHOTOGRAPHER'S CHOICE

What a difference lighting can make. From the exact same spot in my garage first with front light....

...then with back light.

So that should do for this week.

Next week I will be hot of the trail of these prompts:

1. BEFORE AND AFTER - USING PROCESSING
2. OPPOSING LINES
3. CUSTOM BOKEH
4. WHICH PAIR OF SHOES SHOULD I WEAR?
5. LITTLE FEATURES
Check out lots more finds over at Ashley's blog:

INSTA - FRIDAY - FUN

2011-11-04T07:43:00.000-05:00

Hey there.
It's Friday. This week has been a busy, busy one.
But I did manage to catch some photos with my iPad for this week's Insta-Friday link-up.
Wanna see?!?!
Okay, obviously you do, or you wouldn't be here.

Here goes nothing... hee....

1. A Sponge Bob pop for Dylan
2. Chili Cook-Off
3. Grass tassels in our yard
4. Pumpkins
5. Acting NERDY!
6. Riding in the car
7. Checkers are best for stacking
8. First Grade Art
9. Bleh. Grey. And cold. And wiiiindy.
10. YAY. PURPLE! Still cold and wiiiiindy.
11. That's my toilet paper pumpkin craft for the kids' class parties. Made 36 of those babies.
12. His school pictures came in. Cutest first grader in town!

And just one more picture today. A frost covered leaf......

.... it just seemed perfect for early November.

Have a WONDERFUL weekend out there.
Linked up:

THE AFTERMATH....

2011-11-02T22:17:00.002-05:00

I still can't get used to the fact that we're in November. It's strange, no?   Yet, there are wrappers and bits and pieces of costumes scattered about my house.   And I think we are all still a little jittery, coming down off of our sugar high. So, I guess we are right on schedule. Hee.
The day was a blur of carting kids to and fro between schools and planning and attending their school parties.   And getting all the final details of the costumes ready.

Here's Dylan and I at his school party.

Chase went as a Zombie Mummy, Dad was obviously Elvis, Dylan went as Burger King and I was just my normal NERDY self.

The moment school was out Chase was ready to head out and hound down some treats. (Which seems asinine considering all the treats and goodies they came home with from school. Oy.)

We joined forces with lots of the neighborhood kids and completely overwhelmed poor unsuspecting people when this big MOB turned up at their door.

We made some rounds stopping periodically to refill beverage cups for the adults and for the kiddos to check out their loot.   I think my kids seriously ate candy for dinner that night.

We ended the night with S'Mores. Here is Dylan toasting his buns. Er, I mean his marshmallows.

And once Chase started, he couldn't stop.   What is with boys and fire, anyway?   We had to pry him away from that baby at the end of the night.

So, all it all, it was a BLAST.   A special thanks to our neighbors. It's always a special night in our 'hood. These people know how to do Halloween, that's for sure.

Hope you had a great one in your 'hood too.

LINKED UP:

THE HUNT 10.30.11

2011-10-29T23:04:00.001-05:00

It's Sunday and it's time for the HUNT.
Here's what I got.....

1. MACRO

2. FOUND TEXTURE

3. HOME

4. COVER

5. TREE

I can't wait to see what everyone else found.
This was a tough week for me.

Let's see how next week goes. I will be on the look out for:
1. FOOD
2. PURPLE
3. IN DISGUISE
4. SHAPES
5. PHOTOGRAPHER'S CHOICE

Check it all out here:

FRIDAY

2011-10-28T09:49:00.000-05:00

A few snapshots from a BEAUTIFUL Fall week:

1. Welcome to our home
2. SUN
3. Birthday Boy
4. Color
5. Lots of Color
6. Must. Get. GAS!
7. YUM
8. Buggish?
9. The last of these guys
10. Criss-cross applesauce
11. Christmas list making. ALREADY!
12. Before we carved 'em up

Linked up:

FOUR

2011-10-26T21:58:00.001-05:00

I have a four year old.
It doesn't seem quite right still.   I just can't get used to the sound of it.
I go through this disbelief thing with each and every Birthday.

But it was good. Really, it was.
And me, I will eventually get on board.

Chase reminded me the night before that I had some decorating to do and some silly traditions to carry forth.

Apparently, Birthday's in our house mean:

Candles and singing with our Eggos in the morning.

Streamers hanging down over their doors. And a giant number hung on the sliding door. (Cut from wrapping paper.)

Big ol' lollipops from Gramma Pamma.
(They had these babies busted out at 7:30 in the morning. Yikes!)

And presents, of course!

And the birthday boy gets his choice of activities. He opted for an entire afternoon spent with the Chuck-Man!!

It doesn't get much better than that!

Dylan had his heart set on doing his party at Chuck E. Cheese's. And his birthday fell on a Saturday. So, I went ahead and planned the party ON his actual Birthday.
It honestly didn't occur to me until a few days before what I had signed us up for. Chuck E Cheese on a SATURDAY afternoon. Yikes! Luckily, it was a nice day outside, keeping some of the crowds at bay.

The kids had a ball.

Dylan LOVED all his extra special Birthday treats... like that cool crown.

They monopolized the air hockey table.

I had to kick the TALL one off so the little kids could play!

I was afraid that the whole thing would be a bit overwhelming for him. It was for me a little. All the people and kids and NOISE and music and dancing and singing and lights and Chuck E. walking around. But it didn't seem to phase him, phew!

A few of the kids were freaked by the big Chuck E Cheese. Mine seemed okay with him, but the Birthday Boy did refuse to get his photo taken with him. I secretly think it was more about the photo taking than posing with the rat.

The big draw for the Birthday kid is this cool ticket blaster booth thing.
Big Brother was so jealous, he wanted to get in there soo, sooo badly.

But Dylan went in, (I had my doubts that he would even get in there) and big brother coached him from the outside of the glass.

And when the blower started and the tickets started flying, Dylan just sat in there the whole time smiling. Chase was beside himself!

So, I think it was a smashing success. He turned four and had a fabulous day.

Now, though, he doesn't want to turn five.
I took him for his well visit today. Oy. He didn't understand why he had to go to the doctor. So I told him that every time he celebrates a birthday we have to take him in and make sure he is healthy.   He never wants to celebrate another birthday again.
Ah-HA, I may have found my cure for these kids wanting to grow up so fast!

Linked up:

THE HUNT [10.23.11]

2011-10-22T22:58:00.000-05:00

I am hopping on really quick to share my finds for The Hunt.
It was an exciting day in my house today.

Well, just take a look at this first one.....

1. WORDS

That's right, we had a Birthday Boy in the house! My baby is four. FOUR!!! **sob** I still can't believe it.
I have so many birthday photos to edit.... stay tuned for more on his big day.

2. UNDER

There he is, the BIRTHDAY BOY..... under(ish) the water! This one is a bit of a stretch... but I couldn't help it. This photo just makes me smile every time I see it..... and well, smiles need to be shared!

3. ORANGE

Darn, I wanted to get a little more creative with this one... but my feeble mind just couldn't get past pumpkin. So pumpkin's what you get.

4. FLY

Look at those sparks fly!

5. ALWAYS LOOK ON THE BRIGHT SIDE

I love this prompt and truly strive to be a "bright sider" in life. There's lots of room for improvement... but I try. Everyday.

Well, that was fun.
Thanks for stopping over.... and enjoy your Sunday!
And check over at Ashley's for more Scavenging fun.

11 YEARS, BABY

2011-10-21T08:08:00.000-05:00

Hello all.
It is Friday, you know. So it is time for insta-friday again. Oh, and this Friday is extra special because my Honey and I are celebrating 11 years of wedded bliss. Man these years just fly. I won't get too sappy on you like last year (I put together a whole video montage thing. )

But I do want to just reiterate how lucky I am to have that tall, handsome, funny, intelligent, witty, hard-working, extra handy, super-daddy husband of mine in my life. Thanks for being my partner in crime.
Okay, so we don't actually commit crimes together... but you know what I am mean!

Anywho, now for a few random snapshots of my week........ all taken with my iPad.

1. He suckered me into a pumpkin balloon
2. Eagle watching in the U.P.
3. Feel the love (such a rare moment.)
4. Riding in the car
5. Reading in the car
6. Chase in the car (Did I mention we spent a LOT of time driving last weekend?)
7. A corn field in Wisconsin somewhere
8. More driving... in the rain this time
9. Umbrella...ella...ella... yea.. yea...yeahhhh
10. Staple food for October
11. He figured out how to take pictures... up his nose..... I have about 3 dozen more JUST like this one
12. A rare stop for coffee... I almost always make it at home.

And one more quick share shot for Fabulous Friday.
Just because it would be a crime to keep all this cuteness to myself. Hee.

Have a fantastic weekend all.
Thanks for stopping by!

U.P. MICHIGAN

2011-10-19T22:23:00.002-05:00

So, we went on an impromptu weekend getaway last weekend.

A few weeks ago my husband mentioned that he would probably need to head up to Michigan soon.
I groaned.
(He goes up there a lot!)
He suggested that we all go, make a family trip of it.... and at the time it seemed like a smashing idea.

Then the weekend crept up. Thursday, I was dragging my toe... Friday... I was dragging both feet.
It's not that I didn't want to go... but let's see.... 7 hours in the car on Friday evening to get up there, keeping kids busy and entertained all day Saturday while the guys re roof a garage (the weather was cold and windy), and then another 7 hours home on Sunday. It really just didn't seem all that appealing.

And the hardest thing is taking the time out of life to do it.   "But what about the laundry and cleaning and ALLLL the stuff that needs done around here...." I whined to my husband.
"Just come!" he urged me.
He really wanted the boys and I along for the trip.

So, we set off.
It was a long ride in the car. But, it went pretty fast and the kids did amazingly well.... thanks to two DVD players, about a dozen rented movies from the library, a DS, and an iPad.

And while it was cold and very windy, it was still BEAUTIFUL scenery.
So much newness to take in.

We even lost a tooth in route to Michigan.

The boys were very excited for the trip, eager for adventure. I was afraid they would be disappointed and/or bored stiff. I forget though, that little ones find any sort of newness to be an adventure all it's own.    Even just a new house to explore is exciting.

We stayed at our good friends home up there.   While it has been updated and is in good shape (even more so now that the guys put a new roof on the garage) it is still a very old house. I got a good laugh at how excited Chase was about the doors.

"Mom! All the doors have KEY HOLES! And you can SEE right through them!!!"   Funny, that he had never seen such a thing! Oh, and we also encountered an actual phone booth. They thought that was pretty funny too. (Darn, I didn't get a picture of it!)

The guys got what they needed to get done, done. Which is good.

Meanwhile, the little boys busied themselves building bridges. I love how industrious they are when they put their minds to it.

And after all the work was done, we even got a chance to do a little bit of sight-seeing.   YAY.

Most of the color was gone, past it's prime. But we still got a little flavor.

The most exciting part for the boys was seeing "The Ocean!"
This is actually Lake Superior, but it might as well be an ocean when you are three and six.

Can you believe there were surfers out there, it was only in the 50's?!?! Brrrr.

I imagine a few weeks ago, this view would have been blazing orange and yellow.

Dave loved seeing this place without snow. He snowmobiles in this area often during the winters, but has never been here when there wasn't a few feet of snow on the ground.

A self timer family portrait.

So, while I was a little reluctant to take off on this mini-adventure, I ended up having a great time. It was nice to take a little break and step out of the familiar and comfortable and experience some newness. I learned that if nothing else, being in new places means capturing lots of great sights with my camera..... and that makes all that driving worthwhile!

Linked up:

THE HUNT [10.16.11]

2011-10-15T21:12:00.001-05:00

I scavenged again this week. ***sigh*** I love scavenging!

Here is what I found!

1. ABSTRACT

2. ROUND

3. FIRE

It's a stretch....but the back lighting and frost bitten edges gave this leaf a fiery quality, no?

4. SEEING FACES IN STRANGE PLACES (The office supply edition)

In the morning. All smiles.

And by the afternoon....... WATCH out!

5. STARS

So, that's all I got.
Head on over to Ashley's for more Scavenger Hunting fun!

FRIDAY FUN

2011-10-14T07:14:00.001-05:00

It's time again for Insta-Friday. I have to admit.... I have finally gotten on the Instagram bandwagon. I love it. And it's just as addictive as all my other photo obsessions. OY.

So here's a few from the last week:
1. Toothbrushes
2. My kittie Bogie
3. Doing LAUNDRY... dun, dun, DUN.
4. Cute Feet
5. Candyland
6. Smiles
7. Another smile
8. Straws need to be refilled
9. He loves the view from the window sill
Linked up: Insta-Friday

And just wanted to share one of my favorite photos of the week. I decided to take a stab at some family photos this year for the ol' Christmas card. Armed with my tripod and my remote, we gave it a good go. Surprisingly, it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. We got some keepers.

This isn't the ONE.... but I still really liked it.

Linked up: Fabulous Friday and THIS & THAT Thursday

Hope everyone has a fantastic weekend.

10 ON 10 [OCTOBER '11]

2011-10-10T22:45:00.007-05:00

It's time for the 10 on 10 again..... The idea is to take a photo each hour for 10 consecutive hours on the 10th of each month. I tried to stick to the rules this month after failing miserably last month. I still had a few snafus (like I missed 3pm entirely!) but that's how I seem to roll these days!

Here's what I got:

8AM - Playing Hello Rocket

9AM - Cleaning up the Kitchen

10AM - Gladly answering the request, "Momma, I want to snuggle with you!" *melt*

Then big brother wanted to get in on the fun.

11AM - Trying to scare Mom. YIKES!!!

12AM - Arriving at the Fall Fest and waiting for our friends to get there so the fun can begin!

1 PM - The kids were zinging around taking in all the cool activities. Bouncing and horsey rides were among the favorites.

2PM - Lost in the Corn Maze. Seriously. Lost!

4PM - At Dad's work. Ready to take some family photos.

And we're off!

5PM - I think he is tired of photo taking, what do you think?

6PM - At my In-Laws house for BBQ ribs. Mmmm. I love all my Mother-in-laws' Mums right now.

I hope you had a great 10th!

Check out more 10 on 10 fun over this way............

THE HUNT [10.09.11]

2011-10-08T22:27:00.003-05:00

I had a fun time doing this week's hunt.
Mainly because the weather has been PERFECTION!
It could stay like this forever and I'd be one happy camper.
So, here's what I found........

1. LANDSCAPE

2. THE COLOR WHEEL: COMPLEMENTARY/TRIADIC COLOR

Gosh, is it beautiful around these parts right now. I am in awe every time I take a drive.

3. BLACK & WHITE

That's my door mat. Seriously, nothing is safe from my camera!

4. FOOD

Those are apple cider donuts. And they ~~are~~ were to-die-for!

5. BLANK SPACE

Next week, I will be frantically searching for these items:
1. Abstract
2. Round
3. Fire
4. Seeing Faces in Strange/Unexpected Places
5. Stars

Head on over to Ashley's for more Scavenger Hunting fun!

IT'S FRIDAY

2011-10-07T11:27:00.003-05:00

Didn't this week fly?
It's funny how the weeks with AMAZING weather zoom by while the icky-weather weeks drag.
Hmm.

Here's some insta-snapshots of my week, taken with my iPad:

1. He asked to wash the windows. Hmm.
2. Fun with pretzels
3. My constant companion
4. coloring
5. at the skate park
6. bagel face
7. It's SUNNY & we're HAPPY
8. Apple flower.
9. Some fall color

Linked up: Insta-Friday

Linked up: Fabulous Friday

SOUND BYTES:
I did a few sound bytes courtesy of Dylan last week, so this week I have a few from Chase.

Me: (dashing into Chase's room to turn down the blaring music) Chase, you can NOT listen to RAP music. You are ONLY six!
Him: But Mo-OM, it just seems like I am more than SIX!

And here in lies the problem.

*************
Chase was eating his waffles the other morning.
He sneezes.
"Uh, Mom, I just sneezed and waffle came out my nose!"

*************
Chase looking through a Halloween catalog...
"Dad, I found a good costume for you!"
"Oh, yeah, what's that Buddy?"
"It's a big TOOT cushion!" pointing to a picture of a man wearing a giant whoopee cushion costume.

Funny how so many of my sound bytes involve the word TOOT.
Gotta love little boys.

Linked up: Sound Bytes of the Week

Have an excellent weekend!!

COFFEE CHAT WITH FALL FLARE

2011-10-04T09:47:00.000-05:00

Good morning my coffee drinking friends!
It's October! In my last post I mentioned being a bit surprised by it's arrival. But, I think I am now ready to embrace it. I went shopping yesterday and got a few things to help. Candy corn was top on the list, of course. (Did you know that they don't have Candy Corn over in Sweden? I just can't even imagine!)

Also, I got some halloweeny items and pumpkin spice creamer, just in time for our coffee date. Would you like some? It will surely get you feeling FALLY.

So, how was your weekend? Anything fun going on to report?
We went to an Apple Fest. It was crazy busy there, but the kids seemed to enjoy it. They got to ride rides and eat ice cream! It doesn't get much better than that.

We also went out for Pizza at this CRAZY restaurant that looks like a castle and they get ALL decked out for the holidays. Just look at this place.....

Would you walk into a restaurant that looked like this?
***spooooookkkkyyyyy***

Thankfully the kids weren't scared.   They loved it and were thrilled that they had bags set up out back in the courtyard.

Dylan gets an unfair advantage!

And other than that it was a pretty productive weekend. I got lots of cleaning and organizing done. Not as much as I wanted to, but still. I find it hard to get much accomplished when I have one kid hanging on my arm and the other wrapped around my ankle, both begging and whining to GO OUTSIDE. These kids are obsessive and relentless. I am eager for the day when I can just send them outside.... but I don't think we are quite there yet.

So, what do you think? How old do kids have to be before they are allowed to play outside?   We don't have a fence, and while Chase might be close to being ready, Dylan isn't. So for now, they just have to wait for Mom to be ready.... which takes forever!

But, don't worry. They got PLENTY of outdoor time.  We just couldn't pass up this weather. It was perfect for Fall.

Oh, and Dad found this little guy for the kids to ~~torture~~ play with.....

He was our pet for the day. They named him Cookie.

And the neighbors' found this little guy, Oreo.
Lots of reptile fun was had.
***Ewwwwwww***

Oh, and one more thing. I am happy to report that I finally finished up my collage wall, we talked about it weeks ago over coffee.   So, there is now something to look at on our big wall in the family room.   I think I am going to switch out that fabric frame all the way to the right, when I find that *perfect* thing. Until now, that is my place holder.

So, my coffee is cold now. I guess it is time to get my Tuesday on!
Thanks, as always, for chatting.
Have a great one.

More fun this way:

THE HUNT 10.02.11

2011-10-01T23:47:00.001-05:00

Is anyone else completely baffled by the fact that it is OCTOBER?!?
It doesn't seem possible that I just typed 10.02 up there in the title line. I look forward to this month all year and now it's here and instead of being excited, I am confused and surprised and somehow unprepared for it all.

So, I guess it's time to get on board. First things first, bring ON the CANDY CORN.
I am adding that to my grocery list right now!
Wait, who adds Candy Corn to a grocery list?
That's one of those impulse buys that manages to jump into your cart on each and every shopping outing.... for the entire month. Mmmm.

Sorry about that.
You can totally blame me for the next bag of candy corn that you buy.   But, then the next one after that is back on you!

So, should we get to the pictures already?
It's SCAVENGER HUNT day.
Heres whats we gots..............

1. INSPIRED BY A BOOK/MOVIE

He's the KING OF THE WORLD.   From Titanic.   Remember that one?   Oh, you think we should have been on an actual boat, eh?   Well, this is about as close as we could get.   During a very windy day, Dylan was standing at the top of some little bleachers. The breeze was so strong, he started sticking his arms out like this and I instantly thought of The Titanic.

2. BROWN

The leaves are turning, the leaves are turning!!! And it stopped raining long enough for me to get a quick shot of some of the lovely fall color.

3. HAZY

I was trying to capture just how hazy and wet our morning was, last Sunday, at the Bears game.   There was some serious HAZE happening. You could barely even see the amazing skyline it was so ick out.   At least is cleared up by game time.

4. COFFEE OR TEA

That's the perfect 2:1 ratio of Dunkin Donuts Medium Roast/ Dunkin Donuts French Vanilla coffee.

5. LINGER

I'm not sure how this fits linger exactly, but we went to an Apple Fest today and it just seems appropriate. I think everyone in a 50 mile radius had the same idea as we did because it was PACKED and there was lots of lingering around.
See. There, it works, kinda.

Happy Sunday, Friends.
Head on over to Ashley's for more scavenging:

FRIDAY'S RANDOMS

2011-09-30T12:01:00.002-05:00

Hello FRIDAY!
I am happy you are here.
Not that weekends matter ALL that much when you are a mostly stay-at-home Mom. The days sort of run together, so what's the diff if it is a Saturday or a Tuesday? I guess the lack of school and activity and structure. Plus, we are pretty open and tomorrow is slotted for catching up, cleaning and organizing. I'm honestly excited about all of that! (NERD!)   (Me, not you.)

What?!? You don't stop what you're doing in the middle of cooking dinner and do a quick photo shoot with your parsley? Really? Are you telling me this isn't perfectly normal behavior?   No wonder I get lots of [LOOKS] from my family members.

Linked up: FABULOUS FRIDAY

Hey, did you know that Fall is here?!? It feels more like March in Chicago. *Sigh*
At least the apples are all ripe and juicy and taste so yummy with a scoop of caramel. That makes it feel more like fall, certainly. And I finally busted out some fall decor. We are making progress, little by little.

Linked up: Insta-Friday

And, I am tossing in some sound bites..... from Dylan Man.

-Mom, I like doing Laundry. I'm EASY at it!
(I may have died and gone to heaven, just a little, when he said that!  But, not really. He's three. So he may think he is EASY at it -which he says when he actually means he is GOOD at something - but you know as well as I do that he is not EASY at doing laundry. I have to redo everything he does. But still. CUTE, right?)

-Just out of the bath, I wrap him tightly in his cute little froggy towel and hoist him on my lap. Out of nowhere, a loud toot.
"What was THAT!?!" I ask.
Without batting an eyelash, he replies, matter-of-factly, "FROG toot!"

- From JULY when we were on vacation, I never wrote this one down: Dylan put on some of Mom's big sunglasses and Grandpa asked him if he was INCOGNITO.
"No, Grandpa, I not IN-COGNITO, I'm in ID-A-HO!"

-Every night he bids farewell to us and says, "Good night, sleep tight and don't let the BAD bugs bite."
Hee.

Linked up: Sound Bites of the week

So, that's all the mush I can throw together at the moment for you.
Enjoy your weekend!

COFFEE TALK 09.27.11

2011-09-27T10:27:00.001-05:00

Are we meeting for coffee this morning?
If so, I will apologize for being late. As usual.

I got one little rascal off to school, and the other one and I are just chilling today.

It is cold and rainy outside. And he and I really aren't feeling so hot. He has a cough. I have a stuffy nose and a sore throat. I guess that's what happens when you spend all weekend outside. (See my previous post.)

So, I think we are just going to take 'er easy today. Does anyone use that Zicam stuff when they feel a cold coming on?   My hubby swears by it. So, I tried it last night and this morning. We will see if it makes a difference. It is pretty hard to tell, though. I think there might just be a placebo effect thing going on.   Oh well. It can't hurt, right?

So, fill me in on your weekend. How was it? Anything exciting to report?   Are you enjoying Fall so far?    Our fall has been very WET and COLD. I am really hoping we get some nice fall weather at some point.

The change of weather has prompted me to dig through my cookbook and scour the Internet for some good hearty pasta dish recipes (A.K.A. Comfort food!) So, I made this one from the infamous Pioneer Woman last week - Cajun Chicken Pasta - which was so yummy. And was actually probably even MORE yummy when we had it the next night for left-overs.    (Don't you just love when that happens!)

And then last night I made Rachel Ray's Christmas Pasta.   It was equally as good. Perfect for a Fall day.

So, what have you been cooking up in the kitchen? Any and all recipes are welcome. Well, they have to be good. And pretty easy. And free of most veggies, my hubby is pretty picky when it comes to veggies.   That doesn't leave too many, does it?

So, that about catches you up on the happenings in our hood.

Thanks for meeting up for coffee.  I'm glad we are having virtual coffee, so we didn't share any of our germs with you. Wouldn't want you bringing home any cold's with you, now would we! Speaking of which, are you for or against flu shots? I still am not sure if I'm gonna get one. Sometimes I do, sometimes I don't. We haven't been all that healthy this year, though, maybe it would be a good idea.

Let's do this again next week!

The photos:   Just a few randoms of a typical afternoon playing in the yard. Taken last week, when it was still relatively nice outside.

Head over to Amy's for another cup or two.

FOOTBALL, FOOTBALL, FOOTBALL

2011-09-26T22:33:00.000-05:00

The Wisconsin Badger game on Saturday and the Chicago Bears game (or if your my Hubby, the Green Bay Packer Game) on Sunday.

Now, that is a lot of football in one weekend. But, we did it and we had a great time.
(I didn't get many shots from the Badger game. I was bummed that I forgot and left my camera in the car. The few shots I took were with Dave's cell phone.)

We tailgated all morning on Sunday.

Which involved drinking some beers..........

.....while watching TV out of the back of my van.

And eating Chili......

......while dodging rain drops.

These people don't mess around!

Dave even got to go down on the field during warm ups. He was so excited that the Packers where warming up right in front of where they were standing.

The Bears didn't pull off a win, unfortunately. (My Hubby was excited about the Packer win, at least.)
I was just happy that the weather cooperated and it ended up being a great weekend to watch football.

THE HUNT 09.25.11

2011-09-25T07:43:00.001-05:00

Hey all! Here are my finds this week!
Sorry this post is short and sweet....we are about to embark on the second half of our crazy football weekend. Yesterday we went to the Wisconsin Badger game (FUN!) and today we are heading to Soilder Field for the Bears game. It's supposed to rain....boo...keep your fingers crossed!

1. LOW KEY

2. MONOCHROMATIC/ANALOGOUS COLOR

3. CIRCLE

4. SCARF

5. PHONE

Have a great Sunday.
And, GO BEARS!!!!

A LITTLE ADVENTURE

2011-09-22T21:44:00.007-05:00

Man, I am a little behind this week.

The problem is..... well, it's premier week! And I have to admit, I have been watching it. I don't usually watch TV. Really. But I have to say, I have enjoyed just vegging out and being extra lazy.

So, I typed up part of this post earlier and still want to get it posted.... a little late.

Just a few snapshots of our Sunday, last weekend. The boys and I went into Chicago and hung out at the Children's Museum. A little adventure that we planned as a diversion to take their minds off the fact that Daddy was away for a few days golfing with the guys.

Worked like a charm. The boys had an absolute ball. I took lots of photos and couldn't resist sharing just a couple.

They built sky scrappers...

And drove Fork Lifts.
(I love this one. Look at that little tongue sticking out.)

And played in the water.

And in the fire trucks.

We admired the view.

And tickled the ivories.

And dug for dinosaur bones. (That was Dylan's favorite part.)

And even posed for a picture together. (Willingly-ish.)

Phew, now that I got that taken care of, I'm off to finish The Mentalist.
Don't you just LOVE premier week!?!?

What are you hooked on?
(Just in case I decide to continue these bad TV habits!)

Linked in: You Capture & Fabulous Friday

THE HUNT [09.18.11]

2011-09-17T23:22:00.000-05:00

It's time for the Hunt.
Are you all ready?!?
Hopefully.
I am not sure I am, but I'm sharing what I found anyway.
Here's what I got................

1. STREET PHOTOGRAPHY

Er, I think I went a little more literal with this one. Here is Dylan crossing the street on his bike.

2. FROM A DISTANCE

Isn't that a Bette Midler song? Dang, I can't get it out of my head.

3. SUNDAY

Sundays mean FOOTBALL! At least in the Fall, they do.

4. LIQUID

A plain ol' glass of water.... in a fun wine glass. I had to spice it up a bit!

5. BEHIND

The behind side of some purdy flowers.

Check out more finds over here:

HE KNOWS ME.....

2011-09-17T09:22:00.001-05:00

My hubby certainly knows the way to my heart.........

.....he brought this guy home for me the other day.

And he must want to stay there a LOOOOONG time.

Because it came in a box like this:

Yup, a whole case of Choco-Tacos. Yum.

This isn't helping my waist line issues.
Thankfully, he loves me anyway!

And just because I discovered Instragram yesterday....... a photo of me!

I don't have an iPhone, but figured out I could access it on my iPad. WATCH OUT!

Have a GREAT weekend.

LOVIN THE LIGHT

2011-09-15T22:42:00.002-05:00

Light. I find myself watching for it. I seek it out, just as it breaks out over the horizon. I watch as the earth, the air, awaken in it's presence. My twitchy finger aches to capture it's beauty. My lens seems to steer towards it too. I love the effect of the dew blurred in the background....   I just can't seem to stop myself from capturing the bokeh.    I am obsessive lately.. the bokeh, the bokeh, the bokeh!

And at the end of the day, just as it is ready to put itself to bed.... again I find myself tracking it. I watch and wait as the sun sinks to just above the horizon.  At it's sweetest and most golden, and that's when I start snapping.

Oh, how I do love the light this time of year.

And the days are already growing shorter, it's true. But we seem to be just at the right time, the most optimal time, for one to take full advantage of both sunrise and sunset.

And sometimes I do!

I hope you're finding some amazing light in your neck of the woods too.
Enjoy.

[LINKED UP: FABULOUS FRIDAY]

A COFFEE DATE

2011-09-13T10:58:00.002-05:00

Are you up yet? Want to catch some coffee??
I was woken early this morning (who am I kidding, I am woken early EVERY morning) at 6:30 am.

Usually they march straight in my room and start making requests for shows or drinks or food. This morning was different though, I was woken to the sounds of clanking around in the kitchen. I knew it wasn't my hubby, who is up and out the door at an ungodly hour just about every day of the week, so that leaves just two little people responsible for the noises.

I lay there for a few minutes torn between enjoying the fact that they are getting more independent (oh, and the fact that I am still snuggled in bed) and cringing at the thought of what kind of mess they might be making: freezer doors left ajar.... boxes of Eggos left on the counter, half thawed.... glasses of much too full, sloppily poured juice....... plates full of syrup with Eggo pieces swimming around.......... drips of syrup strung from one end of my kitchen to the other, forming a syrupy web of sorts......

That one did it, I haul my buns out of bed.   And am pleasantly surprised to find Dylan watching Garfield quietly, and Chase in the kitchen fixing his brother a waffle. Freezers were closed, appropriate amounts of syrup were dripped on top with very little spillage on the counter. Awww. I love when I am pleasantly surprised!

Extra snuggles were showered upon them. They are getting older and more independent and YES even a bit more responsible.  Which is a good thing, even if I have a hard time letting go and giving them that space.

So here I now sit drinking my coffee.
How is life in your corner of the world?
I hope things are good. We are enjoying some beautiful weather in these parts and I LOVE it. A cool breeze is blowing in and it feels just GREAT!    I can't help but keep repeating in my head: savour this, savour this, savour this weather!

I was thinking I might skip coffee today because I already shared my weekend photos HERE when I went a little crazy and did a 19 on 11, instead of a 10 on 10.   And one shan't post a post without photos, and lots of 'em.   (That is just my own personal mantra!)

Then it dawned on me that I hadn't yet posted the pictures from Dylan's first day of Preschool. He started last Wednesday and it all went soooooo much better than I thought it would. THANK GOODNESS.

He picked out his Back to School outfit himself. We packed up his backpack. He seemed eager to go. (Which is odd because every other time we have mentioned school for him, he was whined and teared up.)

He posed (somewhat cooperatively) for the obligatory Back to School Photos in front of the flowers shots.

He tested out his new super FAST Back to School shoes.

And still, he seemed eager and excited to go.
We pulled up to the school and moments later, Daddy pulled up next to us. Dylan was thrilled that Dad was able to sneak away from work and join him for his big first day send off.

He marched right up to the door, and like a big boy put his belongings away.

And only for a brief moment, his little lip came out and he seemed like he might crumble.

Thankfully, his teachers are pros and whisked him in his new room with all the kids and introduced him to the routines, hand washing first! He loves washing his hands, so that seemed to be enough to distract him.   We lingered outside his room for a bit, sneaking peeks inside the window to make sure that he seemed settled in and content and even happy to be there.

Phew.

It's now way past "coffee time."
Mornings seem to get away from me as I am also now on the front lines getting lunches packed, homework done, ensuring that hair/clothes/teeth (BREATH) are all passable, and somehow manage to get there on time.       So, this is a bit late.   But I love that you joined me for coffee anyway, late or not.

See you next week. I'll probably be just as tardy! That's just how it goes these days.
HUGS to you and have a fantastic Tuesday!

Head over to Amy's for my coffee fun:
<

ELEVEN ON ELEVEN

2011-09-11T22:24:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was 10 on 10 day, and I missed it.

I really love doing the 10 on 10 project, but in all honesty, yesterday I just wasn't feeling it. You see, it was cleaning/laundry/cleaning out closets day. Plus, I was testy. Plus, I was in my PJ's a good chunk of the day.

Trust me, I did you a favor by making an executive decision to skip 10 on 10 and do..... are you ready for this?   11 on 11.
Don't you love it!

So, here are my 11 19 on 11.

(I figured that while I am already breaking all the rules, I may as well keep going with it and post 19 photos. Oh, and I guess that was your warning. There are NINTEEN photos in this post.  BAM.)

7ish - We run on Dunkin. Yes, we do.

8ish - Sprinkles in the morning sun.

9ish - Still in Jammies, watching the 9/11 coverage on the news.

10ish -    Shower time and a little laundry too.

11ish - Some street hockey with Dad.

A little berry bush bokeh. (Don't try to say that 10 times fast!)

12ish - We escape the house, leaving Dad ~~in heaven~~ home alone to watch football on the couch.   The first park we hit was Dylan's pick.

There is a tire swing there. He could live on that thing!

1ish - The second park we went to was Chase's pick. The Skate Park. Where he would only ride his scooter.   Go figure.

Mom enjoyed the amazing sky while he skated.

2ish - Story time

3ish - They seem to have this game all buttoned up, so we head back outside to play. GO BEARS!

Tossing the football around.

And more Hockey.

6ish - Are you tired out yet? Hope not, because after dinner we are back outside playing. More tossing the football around with Dad.

The kids were beyond excited with this balloon sighting.

7ish - And rounding 'er out with a lovely full moon.

Phew, that was a fun day. I'm so glad you came along for the ride ;D

See you next month, on the 10th. (I promise, on the actual 10th, no more cheats.)

Linked up:

SCAVENGER HUNT SUNDAY 09.11.11

2011-09-10T23:28:00.000-05:00

Here's what I found for my week's hunt:

1. BOKEH

I really love Bokeh, especially flower bokeh, so I am sharing a couple!

2. PROCESS OF ELIMINATION

I am not sure if this is the very best example of this prompt, but its the best I could come up with. I like this shot of Chase doing his homework in the afternoon sun with Daddy's help there at the table. But the reflection off the table was a bit harsh....

....so I lowered my angle and moved a bit closer to Chase, and like the results much better!

3. REMEMBER

Do you remember when you were a little kid of ohh, say.... almost four, and you got a new pair of shoes? Did you remember thinking that those new shoes made you run SOOOO much faster than you could before? I totally remember doing that.

I tried to get a picture of Dylan Man zooming by in his new FAST shoes, but darn if he wasn't TOO fast! I

4. STATUES

We have lots of little statues in the garden these days. Reminders that Fall is just around the corner.

Okay, that one was a stretch. I had nothing. And this is one that didn't make the bokeh "cut."

5. FLYING HIGH

This guy may not have been literally flying high on his skateboard, (we watched in awe as many of the bigger kids were actually catching air) trust me, deep down, he was soaring. He so badly wants to be a skateboarder, but has discovered that is a LOT harder than it looks.

I am kicking myself for not geting a patriotic shot for the remember prompt, because I am sure that is what we will all likely be doing for a good part of the day. Remembering the tragedy of Sept.11th. Gosh, I can't believe it has been 10 years. Every time I think back on it, I end up with my eyes swimming and a lump in my throat. What a sad, sad day that was.

Enjoy your Sunday....and..... GOD BLESS AMERICA!

COFFEE TALK 09.06.11

2011-09-06T10:46:00.000-05:00

It's Tuesday! I am so confused by the long weekend that it only dawned on me about an hour ago that Virtual Coffee is today. Would you join me for cup #2 this morning? Sorry, I went ahead and chugged down the first cup, still in Monday mode, a few hours ago.

Soo...... tell me all about your long weekend? Did you travel, did you grill out, did you see family and friends??? I hope it was fantastic. Ours was pretty chill...literally and figuratively. I was still recovering from surgery that I had done, sort of unplanned, on Thursday. It took me a few days to perk back up. Thankfully, I was feeling like myself by Sunday, because my cousin and her family came here for a Barbecue all the way from Ohio. My sister and her husband joined in too.

It was a lovely evening. Then, yesterday, we went to my in-laws for a little celebration too. So, nothing too crazy exciting for us.

All weekend, Chase was poking around with his front tooth.

Showing off to everyone how wiggly it was.

By yesterday it was hanging on by a thread. But of course, he wouldn't let any of us give it a good yank.

BEFORE

AFTER!

Apparently, he came in our room at 2am to show us that his tooth and came out in his sleep. I didn't even recall that happening (I think Dad got up with him) until he flashed me a big-gap-tooth grin this morning. Doesn't he look cute?

I think he likes his new look, he excitedly announced, "Mom, I can play REAL hockey now because I look like a REAL hockey player!"

Oh, and isn't the weather fantastic? It is starting to really feel like fall in our neck of the woods. The cool air is so refreshing. At long last, we shut off the air conditioner and flung open every window in the place with my husband sighing deeply, "Ahh, FREE air conditioning!"

Sorry to cut the coffee short. I have a very upset preschooler..... who, by the way, is starting preschool tomorrow... YIKES (But I vow to handle it much better than the first day of First Grade) ...... because I beat him at Go Fish. Oh, the injustice. He has to learn though, right?

Signing off, Friends!
Check out more coffee talk here.

SCAVENGER HUNT SUNDAY 09.04.11

2011-09-03T20:41:00.000-05:00

So..... I know I said that I was giving the link-ups a break for a bit. But, I really, sorta, kinda do miss this one. And it has been a few weeks, that is "a bit," right?!?!

Good because I think it is time for me to get back to Scavenging. I find that this link-up, more than any other, requires me to seek out photo ops, stretch my creativity and keep learning photography. All things that I want to keep doing. So, I'm going to keep going with this one, I think. Don't hold me to it. You know I am a little wishy-washy lately, right?

And I sure don't want to blather on and on with excuses... but it has been a crazy week. I won't bore you (or gross you out) with the details, but I will tell you that I have been down for most of the week and did end up at the hospital all day on Thursday. Thankfully, I am feeling much better now. Phew.

My point being, the photos aren't my best effort and one of them came from the archives. *GASP*
Please forgive me!

1. STAIRS

2. MACRO

3. CLOUDS
We find ourselves here often. Too often. *sigh*

4. ABSTRACT
This spider is about to have breakfast. Yum.

5. SMILE
Don't get in his way, Friends, or you may loose a toe.

Happy Sunday All!

Linked up:

COFFEE CHATTER 8.30.11

2011-08-30T10:04:00.000-05:00

It's Tuesday and it is COFFEE TIME! I know it has been ages, so I am hoping you all are still up for drinking some coffee and chatting this morning.    If you were here for coffee I would first off tell you to just ignore Dylan who is wandering around right now in shorts and his winter coat, zipped all the way up with the hood on. He told me he wanted to wear his winter coat... just in case it started raining.   Hmmm.    And there really is no use arguing with him. I figure when he starts roasting, he will take it off.

He is months away from four. (DUN-DUN-DUN.) And he is changing so much lately. He is coming out of his shell, so to speak. It's a good thing, don't get me wrong.... but it can also make things a little more trying.   Lately he was been extra willful and aggressive and inquisitive and chatty.

The things he says, oh my gosh, he has us rolling. He is so excitable and expressive when he talks.    And all that cute stuff certainly helps when in the next moment he is lashing out, hitting, yelling and throwing a whopper of a tantrum. He's just in that phase right now.

But, I am happy to report that we seem to be making major progress on the potty training. He seems to be really getting the hang of it on both fronts (if you know what I'm saying!)   Which is good because preschool is starting soon and I signed him up for the all day portion of preschool for 2 days a week. I am picking up another day of work and we had to get him trained before they would take him all day at the preschool. Yikes.

So, I didn't mean to blather on and on about Dylan. Sorry.

Here, let me also blather on and on about Chase too! (You didn't think you were going to get a word or two in, did you! ;D) The good news is that he is back at school. (Here's where I bust out into the HAPPY DANCE!)

We were all starting to climb the walls after last week being stuck inside.   And it nice to have him get back to having the school routine. Even if it means I just had to sit with him on the couch while he did his 20 minutes of daily reading, whining and complaining the entire time. Then it was time for medicine... more whining, complaining, griping, and acting as if the world it going to end because it "tastes sooooo icky!!!"    Is a little cooperation too much to ask.   Oy.    That kid is STRONG willed.

See, here he is showing off his giant muscles.

So, how was your weekend? Did you do anything fun? Hopefully you didn't get hit with a hurricane or anything.   We had an absolutely beautiful weekend here in the Midwest.   Perfection, I tell you. We had painters come and do the bulk of our house. It looks great and they were done in 3 hours. It would have taken us days. So now the walls are freshly painted and blank... still. I keep looking around and have no desire to put up all the same ol' stuff we had up before. I am itching for something new and exciting. I would love to come up with a cool collage wall.    Don't you just love those?

Oh and on Sunday we traveled north to Wisconsin for a Family Gathering with my Husband's Father's family. We had a great time!

So, that about covers things on our end. I hope you are having a wonderful day.
I am off to do something productive. Maybe come up with a game plan for these walls!
See you next time.

Oh, and don't forget to check out more coffee chatter this way:
<

BLAZE OF GLORY

2011-08-26T10:38:00.000-05:00

Don't you just love the end of August?
*sigh*

I look around the yard and think, this is it. The flower beds are bursting, all the flower pots are over flowing, the grass is so green and lush, the home grown veggies and fruits (although, not found in my yard) are perfectly ripe and juicy. It's as if we are hoovering right at the tippy-top of that first ascent on a roller coaster ride.   At the peak. Soon the temps will start dropping and Fall will be in full force. Don't get me wrong, I love fall. But right now I just want to savour this last blaze of glory that is Summer.

We are doing that by enjoying home grown treats like these guys!

Is there anything better than freshly picked tomatoes? No? How about if they were freshly picked by friends and neighbors and given to you to enjoy without having to do any of the work?   I am not much of a gardener. So, I can't tell you how grateful I am for our wonderful friends who have shared with us the treasures out of their gardens.

And the flowers. I am going to miss the color.

Something about looking out the window and seeing these beautiful bright purple guys are just good for the soul.

[Linked: Fabulous Friday]

Oh, and the produce. We have been on a mission to visit every local farm in the area to find the very best place for sweet corn. Seriously, my husband waits all year to sink his teeth into sweet corn, one of his favorite treats.   Our verdict, so far, is that this place has the most crunchy and sweet sweet corn around.

Oh gosh, I just realized that I seem to keep posting these sappy, nostalgic end of summer posts. I don't know why I am having such a hard time with the transition this year, but I guess I am.   Bear with me.   I just know that I need to enjoy these days. Soon we will be dealing with cold and snow and white and dull.

So I am drinking it all in now; filling up my tank, to get me through to next year!

Have a great weekend.

PS - we are still down for the count.
Chase went back to the Dr. yesterday and has pneumonia.
We are certainly starting the school year off with a flop!

DOWN BUT NOT OUT

2011-08-24T10:32:00.001-05:00

So Chase attended a whooping THREE days of school last week and managed to bring home some sort of bug in that short time.   Oy. He has had a cough and a low grade fever that has been hanging around since Friday night.

So we're going on three days of R&R in our house. Its hard on the little guy to be down (look at that sad little face up there as he watched all the kids playing outside.)   But, I have to tell you, it is nice to have an excuse to just VEG around the house.

So far this during our "grounding," we have:

1. Missed a Birthday party and had to cancel a BBQ at our house. The boys were heartbroken about both.

2. Taken the pull-ups away from Dylan and forced him into big boy undies.

3. Done a LOT of laundry. (See item #2. Lots of accidents!)

4. Repeatedly cleaned the toilets (see item #2 again) and vacuumed the house. Man, this house gets much dirtier when we don't leave it.

5. Watched an exorbitant amount of T.V.

6. Snuggled. (See item #5.)

7. Organized and filed the giant pile of paperwork in our office.  That pile was actually starting to teeter, my friends.

8.   Watched the Phineas and Ferb movie about 15 times.    (Yeah, I could have lumped this into #5, but it really deserves it's own bullet point here.)

9.  Ran around in undies all day. Okay, that one pertains only to the pee-wees. I did stay in Yoga pants and a t-shirt, which is kindof rebellious for me.

10. Discovered a new iPad addiction, Fruit Ninja.   Chase keeps beating me. That kid is one good Ninja!

11. Taken the sickie guy's temperature about 200 times. So glad we just bought this guy.

12. Scrubbed my car, inside and out. Wow did it need it!

That's what I call a HAND wash!

He doesn't look very sick, does he?

13. Opps, and I think we may be destroying any progress we made last week to getting him back into the school groove. I just called to report one more absence. And he said, "I don't care, Mom. I like staying home with you!"

So, hopefully tomorrow things will be back to normal. Keep your fingers crossed!!!

IT'S MY BLOG AND I WILL POST 2,435 PHOTOS IN ONE POST IF I WANT TO!

2011-08-22T22:39:00.002-05:00

Okay, that is an exaggeration. Hopefully, you won't actually count though, because there are a lot of photos in here.

The sadness of summer ending is settling in around here. It just seems like it went SOOO fast this year. The days, the weeks, the months... whizzed by with the accelerator pressed to the floor board.

I think it was a good one, I hope it was anyway.

You know what, it was! I was going back through the photos (trying desperately to figure out where it went) and I realized that 1.We were BUSY 2.The boys had a BALL and 3.There are many, many photos that got missed somehow.

So, here are a few summer favs that slipped through the cracks.... until now!

Strawberry picking.

T-Ball games. (Chase is the one in the glasses, glancing my way.)

Boat Rides

Sour-puss faces.

Flowers bursting to life.

Catch of the day. (I figured out that we spent a good chunk of our summer fishing!)

Vacationing.

Bonding with Grandparents.

Mountain climbing (in a gondola!)

Overcoming fears. (This guy is F.I.N.A.L.L.Y. getting in the water!)

That is one VERY happy SUMMER face!

More boat rides!

Sk8ing!

More fishing.

Looking at the tops of these sky scrappers - yikes!

Jellies!

A visit from a Bloggy Friend. (See Colleen, I did have a good photo of the two of us! Julia is a fantastic photographer. Click HERE for Colleen's Chicago post! And lots more fun photos. Except for the one on that scary Ledge where I look like I am going to pee my pants and Chase looks a little devilish!)

More flowery goodness.

Looks like we aren't the only ones enjoying these flowers.

And a little tubing.

Phew, it feels good to get these pictures posted. Like a weight being lifted. And speaking of weight being lifted, I wanted to assure you that while I am certainly still doing my 365 project (click here to go to my flickr set) I don't know if I will continue with the posts. I am taking a break from the link-ups. I feel a little burnt out on them.... for now.

Anyway, just wanted to send summer off in style.
We'll miss you!
xoxoxoxoxoxoxo

A FIRST GRADER

2011-08-18T07:31:00.000-05:00

So, my big guy, Chase, he started school today. (Although by the time this post hits the air, it will be yesterday.)
As a Mom, I like to act all tough and have been whooping and hooraying about the fact that school is ~~finally~~ ~~already~~ ~~finally~~ ~~already~~ starting. When it comes right down too it, though, it is really hard to send your first born off into the big, bad world of Elementary School.

Yes, he was there last year for Kindergarten, but honestly, that didn't really count..... much. He was only there for 2 1/2 hours a day, and he didn't have lunch there, or recess, and most importantly he wasn't gone for the ENTIRE day. This year it seems like the real deal. I guess, because it IS the real deal. And although the fighting and whining and attitude and bickering have nearly sent me straight over the edge for the past two days, I really am going to miss the little guy. Just look at that cute little face.

So, we made it through. I have to tell you, he wasn't all that eager to get back to the school gig. He asked me Tuesday morning what the plan was for the day and the next day (he is always eager to find out ALL the details for the days ahead) I told him that he had one more day of summer and then it was back to school on Wednesday.
"You mean I have to stay THERE?!?! ALL DAY?!?!"
In a bit of denial, maybe?

But I think as he prepared for his first day, he grew more and more excited about it. If nothing else, he loves getting to bust out all the new clothes and supplies we bought him.

We all took him to school for his first day. He was calm, cool and collected. And so was I. Until I saw him take a deep breath and gulp. The kind of gulp that says he's nervous and anxious and trying to keep a brave face. And when I saw him gulp, I gulped. The kind of gulp that shows I'm struggling (REALLY struggling) with letting go of my little guy. And also struggling to hold off tears as we watched him march down the hall to his classroom.

Bring on the reading, the writing, the homework, the lunch packing, the whole schebang!

One kid down, one to go!

Oh dear, my baby is starting preschool in a couple weeks.
I'm warning you know, I am going to be a wreck.

NO ONE EVER THINKS IT WILL HAPPEN TO THEM

2011-08-13T07:55:00.000-05:00

We've all been at this blogging thing awhile now, right?
Me, I have been blogging for almost three years.
In that time frame, I have seen countless bloggers pop on the horizon. Bloggers probably similar to me when I first started out: all full of enthusiasm, bursting with thoughts and ideas to share.  Eager to post and blog-hop and comment, to share themselves and "meet" other bloggers. Somewhere along the way, words dry up, ideas run out, comments become repetitive and it all starts to seem like a lot of WORK.

I'm here to tell you, blogging is hard work. It is tedious and draining and CONSUMING.    But, oddly enough, I still did it..... and I loved it.   But a lot of bloggers out there don't make it. Doesn't it seem like so many fizzle out?    (Cue up: Another One Bites the Dust.)

I really thought I had crossed the hurdle though, that I was in it for the long haul. I just didn't think my enthusiasm for this particular hobby would wean. Yet, here I sit for almost a whole week and I can't get myself here to post... something.... anything.   It's getting dull, I have lost my MoJo (if I ever even had it!)  I am lacking some serious focus and creativity.... and probably a whole lot of other stuff, but let's not turn this into a therapy session!

Don't worry, (or I'm sorry) I don't intend to let this space fizzle out.... I'm sure I will be back to my regular blogging self again.....soon.....when the mood strikes back up.   Until then, I didn't want you to worry. We are doing great.... just enjoying these last few days of summer and getting caught up on life.

A DOUBLE DOSE

2011-08-07T07:19:00.001-05:00

Hello Scavenger Hunters!
I missed last week, but I am back today and ready to share my finds.

1. SEEING DOUBLE

Two little stinkers ready to ambush me.

2. WHATEVER

3. SWEET

4. SPACE

A couple more from our Ledge experience on Friday. This is from the top of the Sear's Tower. I realize that they changed the name to the "Willis Tower" but since no one calls it that, I am sticking with Sear's! Anyway, is anyone else's heart palpitating right now? These pictures even freak me out. That is Chase over there laughing at what a big baby I was being.

Anyone recognize this cute family?
If you read my 365 post yesterday, you know it is one of my favorite fellow bloggers, Colleen from As Is Proper.

There is a LOT of space between my feet and the ground. SCARY!

5. BRIGHT

Some old fashioned street signs in Wallace, ID.

And just to ease my guilty conscience, I will share some pics for last week's set.

1. WALKING EMPTY STREETS

How about empty train tracks?

2. REPEATING PATTERNS

3. FLOOR

4. THEN & NOW

This was taken last summer during our trip and I tried to recreate the same shot this summer......

The little guys were hot on their heels this time, but you get the idea.

5. FINGERTIPS

Okay, I finally feel like I am getting somewhat caught up again. Have a wonderful Sunday, All.
And be sure to check out Ashley's blog for more Scavenger Hunt finds.

[PROJECT 365: WEEK 30 & 31]

2011-08-05T22:45:00.000-05:00

You all didn't think I gave up on my 365 project, did you?
Of course, I didn't give it up! In fact, I have still been taking my daily pictures. I just didn't get around to editing and posting them until just now. So, hang on tight, I have two weeks full of fun for you.

[204/365] More Slide n' Slide pictures. That might have been the best $4.99 I ever spent!

[205/365] 07.24.11 - A yummy treat to beat the heat.

[206/365] 07.25.11 - The Black Eyed Susan's are in full bloom.

[207/365] 07.26.11 - Zooming across the country to go visit the Idaho family.

[208/365] 07.27.11 - Chase and Dylan with their cousins getting ready for "mountain" climbing up Tubbs Hill.

[209/365] 07.28.11 - First off, I didn't take this photo.  I actually parked my camera at home for the day because we spent the day at a water/amusement park. But I had to share this moment for my picture of the day. My good friend arranged for Chase to be pulled out of the crowd and brought up on stage to be part of the magic show. It was hysterical. Apparently Chase is quite the magician!

[210/365] 07.29.11 - A midair flip during one of our many, many, many visits to the pool.

[211/365] 07.30.11 - Cruising Coeur d' Alene Lake enjoying the beautiful scenery.

[212/365] 07.31.11 - More beautiful scenery at the top of Silver Mountain. We took a gondola ride to the very top. Breathtaking and terrifying all at the same time. I am sure it is much less scary when there is a few feet of snow on the ground. Hopefully!

[213/365] 08.01.11 - It may not have been our most successful fishing trip of the year, but it was certainly the most scenic!

[214/365] 08.02.11 - Finally home, or pretty close to it.

[215/365] 08.03.11 - Unloading the dishwasher. The light off my glasses caught my eye.    I know, I know... but it is kindof a boring laundry/grocery shopping/catch up on life kinda day.

[216/365] 08.04.11 - Saaaa-wing Batter!

[217/365] - If this picture is blurry it is because my knees turned to rubber. This is Chase laying on the glass bottom floor of The Ledge (dun-dun-dun!) which is 103 floors up at the top of The Sears Tower. It was a frightening experience. We spent an action packed down tromping around the big city with one of my favorite blogging pals Colleen and her delightful gaggle of kids.    Many, many more pictures to come!

Hugs and have a great weekend!!!

Linked up here:

IT'S ABOUT TIME......

2011-08-03T14:45:00.000-05:00

.....to get back on the blogging wagon.
I didn't intend to be gone so long, really! I feel terrible.
We went to Idaho for a week and back again and phew.... what a whirl wind!! I think my head is still spinning.

I brought my lap top and my iPad, but didn't really crack open either, much.
I think maybe I needed a vacation from Blogland too.
I have missed it, though.

I have about a zillion photos to edit and post.
I will leave you with just a few.

Isn't Idaho beautiful? It gets a bad rap, you know. But, it really is stunning. And it's so clean. And the AIR! I can't get over how wonderfully crisp and clean the air is there. I wanted to bottle it up and bring it back to Chicago. *sigh*

I am off to continue with the unpacking and organizing. But, I promise to be back soon with more!

SCAVENGER HUNT 07.24.11

2011-07-24T07:53:00.000-05:00

It is Scavenger Hunt time again, friends!
I am tossing together my post this morning. I usually have this all buttoned up long before Sunday morning.... but not this week. I feel so behind. So, I will cut right to the pictures.........

1. MUSIC TO MY EARS

The glorious hum of the air conditioner. This guy deserves a round of applause this week.

2. HAT

Not technically a hat, I know.... but I thought the bunny ears were cute. Much cuter than any of my HAT shots this week.... so I am rolling with it.

3. CLEAR

I went with the complete opposite of clear. That water was so murky, I still can't believe I went in. Combine a shallow river anyway with a draught and a ton of boats zooming around and you get a very gross concoction. But, it was refreshing!!! Desperate times call for desperate measures.

4. OUT OF THIS WORLD

These flowers look a little like they could be found out in orbit somewhere, don't they?!?! It's a stretch, but I couldn't figure out what else to do with this one!

5. SPRINKLES

Sprinkles of water on our Hastas.

For more Scavenger Hunt fun, head to Ashley's place by clicking here:

[PROJECT 365: WEEK 29]

2011-07-22T21:58:00.002-05:00

In case you missed the news, or haven't opened your front door.... this week was HOT!
Wowsa, frighteningly hot, it was.
I know many of you deal with really hot, hot weather.... but it just doesn't seem fair, to me, that here in Chicago we have to deal with BOTH of the dreaded terms..... HEAT INDEX and WIND CHILL. Gotta love extreme weather.

Anyway, I am not going to sugarcoat it.... my photos are pretty ho-hum this week. I think the weather has zapped my creativity along with everything else. I haven't even toted my camera around much with me for fear that it might.......well, MELT!

But I did get some sort of some (blah) picture each day to share with you... so here goes.................

[197] 07.16.11 - I take photos of the weirdest stuff. This is me washing out my coffee pot and loving how the spray looked in the light. I know, I need professional help!

[198] 07.17.11 - Auntie and Uncle Joe took us for a little boat ride. It was HOT and the boys loved it. We even cooled off by all jumping in the river. Well, except for Dylan who feel asleep for most of it. (What else is new?!?!) For the record, that is my sis with Chase, not me.

[199] 07.18.11 - Finding some relief with the cool hose water!

[200] 07.19.11 - Catching Firefly's!

[201] 07.20.11 - Driving home... wishing it wasn't bedtime so we could stop and capture some of this gorgeous evening light.

[202] 07.21.11 - This guy decided we HAD TO, HAD TO have a Slip'n'slide. And who am I to argue with him when it is 100+ degrees out.

[203] 07.22.11 - It rained. All night and all morning. What a wonderful sight!

Soooo.... that is my week.... in a nut shell.
Have a great weekend.

LINKED UP:

YOU CAPTURE: TREES/PLANTS/BABIES

2011-07-21T08:58:00.000-05:00

I met my good friend Melissa at one of our local parks last Friday.

We had hoped to walk around the lake and get some pictures before the kids got busy playing.

We walked, we spied turtles and frogs. We stopped and I took lots of photos.
Isn't Caroline the cutest little model?

I am no professional, an amateur at best.

But mornings like this, spending an hour with these cuties, makes me think.... maybe, just maybe..... someday.

Taking pictures of people is hard work, but taking pictures of busy toddlers is like mission impossible.
But I have to say, I had so much fun doing this shoot.

Carter is a pro in front of the camera now, so that helps!

I have so much to learn.... like I cut his head off up there. And there were some spotty lighting issues. But I was still pretty happy with how they turned out. And I thought they would be perfect to share for this week's You Capture.

Beth's son selected this week's prompts. He said we should capture: Trees, Beautiful plants and/or Little cute babies.

I think I covered all of them!

SUNDAY'S SCAVENGINGS

2011-07-16T22:49:00.001-05:00

It is Saturday night.... and I think I am ready for bed. It isn't even 10pm yet.
I was up way too late and up way too early all week long. It catches up to ya, you know.
So, I am making this one short and sweet. Or just short.   *wink*

1. BLACK AND WHITE

More jellies to share.
These guys were pretty much black and white SOOC.

2. REFLECTIONS IN GLASS

This one was also taken at The Shedd. This is the main tank in the entryway.

3. HEADLIGHTS

So, just about every week at least one of the scavenger hunt item sneaks up on me. Usually, I can catch in time to quickly figure out something creative to shoot. Well, not this time. I realized this afternoon that I completely spaced on this prompt.  And there was not a single (interesting) headlight around to photograph. Thankfully, I remembered this shot, taken last summer at my Grandma's farm.   Phew.

4. SEEING DOUBLE

The only thing that came to mind for this one was getting a shot of my sister and I. Growing up with a twin, you get used to all the jokes and cracks about "seeing double" even though we really don't look that much alike. What do you think?   Unfortunately, I didn't see my sis this week, so you get this instead.   Some random chain links on our swing set.

5. BARE

Dylan, at the top of the slide. No, he didn't actually go down. He was calling for me to help him down.
"After a quick picture, Honey!"
I am a mean, mean Momma.

That's all of them for this week.
Check out lots more scavenging over here:

[PROJECT 365: WEEK 28]

2011-07-15T23:43:00.004-05:00

This week was a perfect salute to July. I know I keep saying this, but these weeks are just cooking along and I am so happy to have lots of pictures to show for it.
Here's the run down:

[190/365] 07.09.11 - Disregard that his shirt says 2010. They apparently ordered WAY too many last year and just handed them out this year also. It was a free event, so we can't complain! Anyway, Chase was so excited to participate in the Kid's Fishing Derby here in town. You all know by now that he is OBSESSED with fishing. So, this is perfect. The age range was 4-15 and quite a few kids turned up.

That little guy up there, well, not bragging or anything.... but he placed 2nd! Okay, maybe I will brag a little because he was thrilled.   And for his big prize (there was lots of cool fishing stuff to choose from) he went straight to the little poles and picked out a new one for his little brother. AWWWW, right?

[191/365] 07.10.11 - It was 10 on 10 day, which is an exciting day! Trust me. I posted all those shots over HERE. Our stop at Cinnabon, though, might have been the highlight of my day. I haven't eaten one of these bad boys for like a decade! Dylan wanted it. What?!? He did. This picture was taken before he I he I we devoured it. Now I just have to somehow suppress the memory of how deliciously evil those guys are so I won't go trying to eat another one for at least another decade, or so!

[192/365] 07.11.11 - Jellies at the Shedd.   Chase told me they looked like me with all that crazy long hair. Lovely.

Oh and I shouldn't forget my weekly kid humor. Yeah, yeah... I know I haven't posted any for a while.

Anyway, I asked Chase to get my cell phone for me, it was in the side pocket of my purse.
He went off and came back a minute later empty handed.
"Where's my phone, was it in there?"
"Nope, all I found was this toe make-up" he said, holding up a bottle of nail polish.
WHAHAHAAAA. Toe make-up. That kid kills me!

[193/365] 07.12.11 - Making a splash coming down the BIG slid at the beach.

[194/365] 07.13.11 - Today was THE day.  I cornered him in the bathroom and decided we weren't leaving it until he got over his "fear of the potty." It took hours and lots of tears and juice and patience and courage.... but he did it. Like six times. Lots of skittles and "quarter-pennies" were showered upon him. Even a trip to the library, too. It was a good day!

[195/365] 07.14.11 - You all know the drill by now.....me lurking around at 6:30am in my jammies just as the sun is rising and the sprinklers had just shut off. But, this time, I put on my Extension Tubes for a MACRO effect. Love how they turned out. Let me know if you are sick of my morning-flower-droplet-bokeh shots yet. I feel like I am starting to beat a dead horse. (And who came up with that saying anyway.... it seems a little cruel, now that I just typed it out.)

[196/365] 07.15.11 - First going on the potty and now THIS. He is riding his bike (with training wheels and all, but still!) Can you believe it? My little guy is getting so big all of a sudden.    He is almost four, so I know we aren't moving at lighting speed or anything, but these are pretty big steps for him.

Okay, that got a little wordy. I shouldn't blog while over-tired and slap-happy.
On that note: Nighty-night!
Linked up:

Okay, and one more thing to add.... exciting news:
My Jelly shot and my water droplet shot were both selected and featured for the week's top five! THANKS.

SUMMERTIME MEANS.....

2011-07-14T06:45:00.000-05:00

.....mosquito bites......
.....green grass.........
.....sand everywhere - on my floors - in the tub - covering every inch of my car - in my dryer's lint trap (opps!).....

......catching lightning bugs.......
......so many great photo ops!.......
......fishing trips, fishing trips, fishing trips.......

....spending more time outdoors than in......
.....beach days......
....flip flops! Even Dylan has discovered their appeal. "Mom, sometimes my piggies just want to be free!"......

......no rushing out the door each morning.....
.....falling behind on housework.....
.....taking up residence on the swing set......

......suntans (always through sunscreen!).....
.......hearing, "Mom, I'm bored!" and trying not to get up on the soapbox about how that is just about impossible!......
.......taking day trips to the Big City.......

.......an abundance of sunshine (oh, how I love all that light!)........
.......losing my patience..... often......
.......ring around the tub......

.....HAPPY little boys......
.....chillin' in the driveway......

......having "perma-flops" (Which is when the tan lines on your feet are so bad that it looks like you are wearing flip flops even when you aren't)...........
......there is always a gaggle of neighborhood kids running around......
.......the days are long, yet they seem to just fly......
.......this guy wants to be fishing, or playing with tackle, or reading fishing books, or searching the net about lures, or playing fishing games on my iPad..........
.....beautiful stuff keeps popping out of the earth and blooming!

......splashes of color everywhere you look......

I hope you are finding as much JOY this season as we are....... Summertime is the best. Seriously!
We are trying to saviour each and every day, especially the ones as glorious as this one.

For more Summer lovelies head over here:

VIRTUAL COFFEE

2011-07-12T08:47:00.002-05:00

It's coffee time, what are you having? I will gladly make you a delicious iced coffee..... my new vice.... if you would like one. It has been too blazing hot around here to drink coffee-coffee. Why haven't I thought of making my own iced coffee before? (Kicking myself!) Anyway, it is really delish....

So, I have missed coffee for the past couple weeks. I don't even know why.... just haven't been able to get my rear to my computer and type. But I am thankful to be here today. It is 7:30am and I JUST woke up. Amazing stuff. Dylan, my 6:15am alarm clock for the entire summer is still sleeping. STILL! He has finally, finally gotten into the groove of summer. I think my days go so much better when they don't start at 6:15am with Dylan prying open my eyeballs and whining about being hungry.

I really needed that extra hour of sleep after our wild day yesterday. We started it off with this crazy storm that ripped through and took with it our power. Which never happens.... and the boys thought it was the end of the world. (WHAT ARE WE GOING TO DO ALL DAY WITH NO POWER?!?!? THIS IS BORING?!?!) So, we decided to try to go forward with our plans to head into the city, pick up a friend of mine along the way and visit the Shedd.

We encountered lots of downed tree branches and inoperable traffic lights.... but we made it and we had a great time.   The way home was a little dicey. The drive back from the city was great until we got to the burbs and all the traffic lights were still out. Combine that with rush hour and you have a recipe for disaster. So, we just drove straight to Dad's work and did our weekly fishing and surveyed the damages at his Golf Course. Wow, his crew was STILL there cutting up and removing downed trees at 7:30PM.   What a giant mess.

So, it was a long day yesterday, today we could use a bit of relaxing.... which doesn't really mean relaxing... it means doing things like scrubbing out tubs (which are filthy, from bathing filthy boys!) and doing laundry, and grocery shopping and such.

Just lots of catch up.
This is getting boring. I am sorry for going on and on...... What's going on in your world? I shouldn't  hog the floor like that, should I?   I tend to do that though.    Did the crazy storm hit in your neck of the woods? Where you as scared as we were? Chase was so freaked out, he begged me to go to the basement.... even in the dark!    I shouldn't write too much about how scared he was, though, I might get into trouble.

The other day, a really freaky thing happened. He said to me, "Mom, I read what you wrote about me on your blog!"   Those are scary words, my friends.  As much as we encourage our kids to learn to read, I never thought about the down side to him reading on his own. Which, reminds me that I should go shower and change. I am sitting here in my Victoria Secrets Pink jammy pants that are bright pink and covered in graffiti It didn't occur to me to actually READ the graffiti until it was too late.    They have little phrases like CALL ME, FOLLOW ME and FRENCH ME, BABY written all over them. Yikes, I certainly don't want him asking questions about all that.....
(Note to self: You might be getting too old for PINK!)

And because I can't bring myself to post without a picture or two..... a couple from them playing with bubbles last week that didn't get posted yet.

Want to get in on a little more coffee chat.... head over to Amy's blog.......