Ahren Carpenter Family and Friends

2012

2012-01-10T22:08:00.000-08:00

Well I yet again have sucked at posting anything to my blog. Not that anyone reads it....2012 has kicked off to be a big pile of quick sand that I am sinking into while life goes by and I see people walking past me and some kicking sand in my face to speed up the process. Lost my Aunt Deb who I had not talked to in a while and I kind of blame my Dad who passed away 8 years ago on that. Long story. I did love her and although we were not close at the time she passed we shared many memories and I know she loved me. She was an amazing woman and I feel so deeply sad that I had not taken the time to talk to her and did not realize she was not well. We had a very busy but good Christmas. Took some time off my Mother was here from Arizona and Jake and his girlfriend Freya. Went to help my cousins with my aunts home in Utah and attend her service in Utah. Flew back and back to work and I was served papers that an ex employee is attempting to file a law suit for an employment issue. Finally came to a settlement on my brother Cris's estate that his wife let go bankrupt after his death 4 years ago and that I guess was not good enough so we will be going to court. I swear I should have been an attorney I could pay my own salary with the amount of bills I have paid. Working on 2011 taxes which are a f-ing blast when you are self employed and my annual licensing another joyous amount of paper work. Anxiously awaiting the state reassessments to recoup funds and no longer allow me to support the individuals I have they way I need to. And an employee gave their 2 week notice on Tues. and it takes at least 1 month to rehire if all goes well so it looks like work is my calling so that is what I will do until I get it right. The funny thing is that my New Years resolution was to slow down enjoy life and to look at the positive in things. Well I will try to start that in February or maybe become a very nasty person that the life has been sucked out of by what I allow to happen to me and how I chose to let it make me feel. So if anyone reads this just laugh and think what a whine bag! Because as usual I will get over myself and fix it all for everyone at my own expense:) Mike did sign the kids up for Basketball , T-Ball and baseball so I do have that to look forward to. I feel like such a failure of a parent when work doesn't allow me to be the parent I want to be. But I do love what I do most of the time but it seems to get harder and harder to do. Maybe it will all fall apart and I will find a new profession! Who am I kidding I will be a service provider for life it is in my blood. Maybe not always work for myself but I know I would be lost with out all of the amazing people I have supported and all that they have taught me. Ok I am done and hopefully not until 2013!!

2011

2011-01-12T22:05:00.000-08:00

Well I have not posted to this site for quiet some time. Life is good....I have been doing quiet a bit of volunteer work such as sitting on various committees, boards and advocacy groups. Hoping to have some input on how and what services are offered and delivered to individuals with Developmental disabilities. I have spent the past 14 years working for and with some of the most amazing individuals who have truly inspired me and taught me that there is nothing more valuable that a positive relationship, friends and the simple things in life.
Our family is doing well Cole is getting ready to sign up for baseball and still doing Hip Hop. Macy is enjoying kindergarten and will be playing T-ball this year. Jake will be graduating in June from Ohio State!! Go Buckeyes!! Mike is working on re-designing our shop. I will hopefully have some photos to share soon!!

Macy had a tea Party!!

2010-02-21T09:12:00.000-08:00

Macy and I found some china that was my grandmothers and we washed it all and decided to have a tea party. She was so excited and had a great time.

Fun with Sam

2010-02-21T08:59:00.000-08:00

Lillian and Big Sam went to the Olympic's and we had little Sam for a few days. We had a good time and I took a few pic's to share.

Paulina Lake for New Years!!!!!!

2010-01-03T21:32:00.001-08:00

We went to Lake Paulina with friends over New Years!! It was an amazing trip!! The kids had a great time and the adults were not lacking in the good times either. Lots of food, drink and snowball fights. Looking forward to going back this summer and again for New Years next year! Jordyn and Cole got a visit from the tooth fairy 3 teeth lost total over that trip. We are so lucky to have such amazing friends with amazing kids.........Here are a few pic's from our trip!

It has been a while since my last post........

2009-08-12T23:07:00.000-07:00

We had family night tonight and went to see Alien in the attic! It was a good time....We have been busy went to Vegas, Jeff and Lisa were here for a weekend, kids took 4 weeks of swim lessons, went to the zoo and a lot of yard work! Here are a few pic's to share with anyone who looks at my blog. My aunt will be in town and we are going to a BBQ at my moms on Sunday maybe I will get some more photos to post of the family

The kids Birthday Party!

2009-07-12T22:52:00.000-07:00

We are so grateful to have so many amazing friends and family. It is always a hectic crazy day but it is always nice to see everyone. The kids had a great time! Mike and I just get bummed that we either don't get a chance to visit with everyone and/or not long enough. Thank you to everyone who was there to celebrate with us.

The kiddo's at swim lessons

2009-07-12T22:50:00.001-07:00

We made it home from Europe!!

2009-06-23T21:26:00.001-07:00

We all had a great time. I will post a few pic's. We first stayed in Prague in old town square. We went to the Prague castle, went on a jazz boat at night to see the city and of coarse the Charles bridge. We also went to a torture museum it was really interesting. Then railed to Vienna where we saw St. Stephen's church and went on a boat cruise in Veinna to Melk where we visited a famous historical Abby. Of coarse had to go to a classical concert in Vienna. Then we railed to Munich where the train station was closed and this German man that spoke no English kicked us off in an unknown place. They I guess thought there might be a bomb in an unattended bag in Munich so they shut everything down. So we found a nice person that worked on the train to help up figure what subway to take with all our luggage. We visited Dachau the first concentration camp in Germany that was very tough to see but an important part of history. Watched the famous glockenspiel. Went to the mountains to see a few Barvarian towns and then up to the castle that Walt Disney used it as their trade mark. Of coarse that day it was pouring rain and freezing so I got out of line walked down the path soaked and got a coffee in town and just waited for everyone. They couldn't believe that I went all the way there and I copped out. But I was cold and miserable so I didn't care. I will post more details later tired and trying to get caught up on life.....

Macy's Ballet Performance

2009-06-10T06:48:00.000-07:00

Cole is playing T-Ball

2009-06-06T08:22:00.000-07:00

I love watching Cole play he is actually pretty good. Mike is coaching and I love to watch him and how he interacts with the kids. He is very proud of all the kids on the team and it has been a lot of fun for both of us. Here are a few pic's of our last game.

Fun in the sun!

2009-06-06T08:16:00.000-07:00

We had some friends over for slip n sliding and hanging out here are a few pic's.

Baby Shower

2009-05-31T08:13:00.000-07:00

Had a baby shower for Kim yesterday. It was so fun and so nice to see everyone. I will have to post some pictures soon. Kim looks great of coarse and I cannot wait to meet Lily Mae. I love the name and am so excited to meet her when she arrives! Little babies are so sweet.

Kool in the Gang

2009-05-23T08:38:00.001-07:00

Getting excited to go to Spirit Mountain for Kool in the gang with a group of friends to get our drink on and go to Kool in the Gang. I am getting excited!!

I few more pic's from today......

2009-05-20T22:08:00.000-07:00

Macy's ballet class is having a performance and today she had pictures for her class.

Cole had his 2nd T-Ball game they did so good and the coach is HOt!!! Aunt Kellie, Caleb , Amelia, Pappa and Grandma Cindi all were there!!
Macy took the camera and took most of the photos! She's pretty good. Gotta love the one of her foot.

OK OK I guess it's been awhile.........

2009-05-19T21:09:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we went to Shawn and Tiff's for some water sliding w/kiddo's. Then to celebrate Linda and Brandy's b-days and played some poker!! Sunday it was off to JJ Jump for Ashley's b-day party. Monday Cole has his first T-Ball game. Today went with Cole and Macy's school for a field trip at the Zoo. Took Amelia shopping w/Macy for a B-day present. We combed the mall and went out to Mexican food with Kellie and Caleb. Now watching a boy mermaid movie on Disney channel with about 10 dolls Macy has me watching for her she is having family night so she told me and I have to babysit. Her are a few photo's of the events lately. I am so excited for Thursday when Kim and Julie have their ultra sounds. Funny they fell on the same day!! I am so ready to buy some baby stuff......

I love gardening.........

2009-05-05T06:33:00.000-07:00

Actually it is a lot more work than I thought!! Friday I planted a flower garden and several other plants around the yard. I am now kind of obsessed with it. Go figure me??? So I was up until 10pm Saturday night planting in my flower boxes with all the porch lights on so I could see. Bought more to plant yesterday. I am so excited for some things to start growing. Planting a garden in the next week. Well that is a joint effort. I am sure it will be short lived. Then I can freak out on how to make sure it all gets watered since we are never home! Looking to forward to hanging out with Tera and Toi Friday we are having a sleep over with the kids. I am sure there will be some wine involved and good conversation. Well better get ready for another day in paradise....I feel like I am stuck in that movie groundhogs day. Repeating the same day over and over...............

Back from East Fort Rock...

2009-04-27T06:43:00.000-07:00

I think Lillian tried to kill me we went on a 4 hour ride and it kicked my butt. I did manage to flatten her tire since Mike had wrecked our bike and it already had a flat tire. Those damn rock gardens!! Anyway we had a great time and will probably go again. Very dusty but beautiful sunshine all weekend. Here are a few pic's.

Well Happy 40th Shawn......

2009-04-22T06:51:00.000-07:00

Tiffany had an amazing surprise 40th Birthday party for Shawn @ the crystal ball room! Let's just say we all had a really good time!!! Thanks Tiffany!!!!

If anyone wondered about this song?????

2009-04-13T06:42:00.001-07:00

When we were in Dufur camping a few weeks ago. I was lame and went to bed early due to to many mixes of drinks that day. Well I woke up to Beastie Boys at about 2am and singing. They were having a great time the group we went with or shall I say the ones that were up.(Tiffany, Shawn, Paul. Tonya, Scott) Not to mention any names) Every since I cannot get Beastie boys of my music selection.

Easter

2009-04-12T21:42:00.000-07:00

We had a great time with family!! It was nice to see everyone and made us realize how fortunate we are to have such loving and wonderful people in our lives. Here are a few pic's of the kids. Macy was sick all weekend you can see it in her face. I will also post some of her ballet pic's......

The BFF's

2009-04-05T21:34:00.000-07:00

Very fun and Busy weekend! Will post more pic's soon...............

Back from Dufur..........

2009-03-29T08:44:00.000-07:00

We had an amazing time in Dufur! A little snowy but fun. Recovering from junk food and alcohol. Here are a few pic's of the kids from our amazing camping trip in the snow.

Macy and Gavin

2009-03-22T08:28:00.000-07:00

Macy and I went to Julie's for a cooking party. Macy was so cute I had to take her picture on Julie's door step. Her and Gavin were playing and having a great time.

Kiddo's on St. Patricks Day!

2009-03-19T06:53:00.000-07:00

Busy Busy

2009-03-12T22:44:00.001-07:00

Well very busy week......I had a great time with Jaime and Macy loved seeing Ashtyn. Jaime, my mom and I went to Wicked Sunday evening it was wonderful. Monday night Shawn and Tiffany invited us to the Blazer Lakers game! It was the best game I had ever been to! Wednesday night was Les Claypool and the Bone yard road show at the Roseland. All I can say is Les Clay pool is very talented!! He can rock a base like no other. It made for fun people watching too. Macy had ballet tonight and Cole is still recovering from a horrible ear infection. I will post a few pic's of Macy and Ashtyn they are so cute together!!!

This cracked me up!

2009-03-07T06:34:00.000-08:00

If you go to u-tube and look up journey lovin touchin squeezin and watch the video it tickles my funny bone! This was all inspired by Garett and my husband! They were looking up old bands video's and I latched on and thought I would share with anyone who is amused by this sort of thing. This is what I do when my kids get me up at 4am.......Good use of time!

TGIF

2009-03-06T20:49:00.000-08:00

We took Cole to sparing and he wasn't feeling well so we went back home. Macy and I are watching a movie tonight. In the morning driving to Portland and meeting Jaime and Ashtyn for a girl shopping trip. Jaime and Ashtyn are staying with us and we will hang out and then Sunday we are going to Wicked and Mike has the kiddies. I am sure I will have some pic's of the girls to post after this weekend. Well back to Madagascar 2 for the 6th time.....

A few old pic's of the girls....

Silver Spur anyone?

2009-03-04T06:42:00.000-08:00

I had a great time catching up with Alisha last night!! We wnt to dinner and then I watched her line dance! Good times. They had a home with people with disabilities there and that was cool for me to see! Alisha can shake her boots......It looked like a lot of fun but I have an issue with having no rhythm. I asked my husband to try it with me and I got shut down! I am getting excited for Wicked this weekend with my mom and Jaime!! I saw it once in Chicago with Kim and it was great! Then to see the Bone yard dog show with Les Claypool on Tuesday with Kelsey, Crystal and Brian. Should be interesting anyway. Kinda of a long story how that came about. Macy is so excited to see Ashtyn this weekend it has been way too long. I think I will post a pic of the two of them!

Good times....

2009-02-28T10:06:00.000-08:00

We had an amazing time in Tahoe and I would love to go back someday. It's funny how I never realize how much fun a trip is until I get back home and life gets back to normal. I have so many great places I have been and truly thankful for the opportunities that have come my way. I also have so many ideas of great places to go with our truly amazing friends. We have a trip to Germany, Austria and Prague with my brother and his wife in June. Then we are off to Vegas in July to see our dear friends celebrate their 10 year anniversary and get married again in the church of Elvis! Want to take the kids to Disney land in the fall if at all possible. We have a few camping trips planned. Time to haul out the trailer and get the bikes ready it's almost that time of year.......I have been seeing the trailers out more and more on the road. I am getting excited but kind of dread the cleaning and packing and loading everything but is truly quality family and friend time that is always a good time. I am dying to go to camping world and see what kind of fun gadgets that I can come up with. Here are a few more photo's.

A few Tahoe pic's....

2009-02-22T22:19:00.001-08:00

We had an amazing time with great friends!! I have many more photo's I will post more later,

Tahoe....

2009-02-21T08:15:00.000-08:00

Having a great time in Tahoe. Went to the top of the mountain yesterday and rode the zip line absolutely beautiful. We sat outside soaked up some sun at the bar fire and ice. It's outside with a huge fire-pit. A lot of drinking ate at Cabo Wabo. Will post pic's soon. I think this is right up there on my top 5 places to go absolutely beautiful!!!!!!

7 year wedding anniversary today!!!

2009-02-16T22:03:00.000-08:00

Cole and Macy made me a wedding cake!

Toro and Angus

Jeremy and Megan's beautiful baby!! Olivia.....

Tahoe........

2009-02-13T23:44:00.000-08:00

http://www.vrbo.com/124128

This is the link to the house we are staying in in Tahoe.....next week I am so excited just hope I don't feel like crap!!

Is it Friday yet??

2009-02-11T22:29:00.000-08:00

This has been a very busy week.....I am so ready to be done with it!! Tahoe next week!! I am getting excited to get out of here and enjoy our bitch'n house in Tahoe and celebrate Mike's 40th B-Day with 10 of our wonderful friends!!! Let it snow let it snow let it snow!!!

Here are a few pic's of the kids! Cole took my camera and can take credit for a few of these shots. Jaime got Macy a hot strawberry short cake swimsuit and she wore it all night!!!

Cole made me a kiss in Kindergarten!

Macy was pretending to be getting married....

Macy's Valentines Day Party!

2009-02-09T21:58:00.000-08:00

I planted a few flowers...

2009-02-07T22:07:00.000-08:00

Cole made me a drawing of hearts........

Check out my lime on my lime bush!
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A few crafts the kids and I did on family night!

2009-02-07T07:09:00.001-08:00

Macy doing dishes. We will see how long that lasts......

Macy at ballet

2009-02-07T07:01:00.000-08:00

I have not mastered my new camera and most photos are turning out blurry. Cole took over the camera at ballet. Here are a few pic's of the kids.

Cole trying to get comfortable in the car after partying with Ethan and Ashlee last weekend!!

TGIF!!!!

2009-02-06T06:26:00.000-08:00

I do have some pic's to post of Macy's ballet class last night but I am too lazy to go get me laptop right now which I downloaded the images on @ 11pm last night. Macy is having a few friends over for a valentines day party on Sunday. So that means I will be making cookies and heart shaped food saturday! Mike has a couples shoot @ willamette university in the morn. Tonight we are taking Cole to sparing class. I do really want to do some yard work on Saturday but we will see what the weather brings. Mike and I are off to Tahoe in 10-days to celebrate his 40th B-Day with some of our dearest friends and some will have to be there in spirit because they had plans or couldn't make it. We will celebrate for all of you!! Twelve of us are staying in an amazing house and I got someone to come in and cook for us the first night we are there so we can enjoy it! Not sure out side of that........drunken sledding sounds kinda fun I got a flask and have no clue what to put in it???? More of a beer and wine kinda girl. Snowmobiling is up in the air and there are some that ski and snowboard. We will go out to dinner and gamble a bit I am sure! It wouldn't kill me to go to the spa either or do some shopping!! I am so ready to escape for a few days. I will miss the kiddies like crazy but they will have fun with grandma!

Cable connection on Wednesday!!!

2009-02-02T06:18:00.000-08:00

Our internet here out in the country has not been working so well. We are getting cable connection this week so I will be able to not be such a loser about updating my blog.....I am thinking that I may have to write the president and declare the day after super bowl a holiday! It was very hard to get up this morning. I think I had a little too much fun at Shawn and Tiffany's!! Watching the game of coarse........Cole and Macy had a great weekend they got to play Saturday night with their cousins in Portland until they passed out. Then all day yesterday with a bunch of our friends kids that they love. I have a feeling they may not want to get out of bed themselves. Well coffee is ready better go wake my sorry butt up....

I don't think we will win any cake contests......

2009-01-25T22:09:00.000-08:00

Macy and Gavin played Barbies and we all participated in decorating the cake. Well not everyone. So the cake dress was too short and we had to use the midget one legged Barbie with orange hair.

Low key weekend.........

2009-01-25T09:29:00.000-08:00

Took Cole to sparing Friday night. T-Ball sign up's on Sat. Macy and I went to G ma Cindi's for a pampered chef party. It was really nice to visit with family. Macy got to see Brooklyn and Ashley. They had a great time! Played Wii fit Saturday night. Today I think a few people might stop by and Macy wants to try to make a barbie cake. I am sure that will just be beautiful.....If we get around to it I will post a photo.

Cole and Macy

2009-01-23T21:57:00.000-08:00

Macy

Cole at Gilbert House

Cole at tournament last weekend.......

2009-01-23T21:50:00.000-08:00

Will add photos soon!

2009-01-20T15:44:00.000-08:00

Our internet is being stupid. I guess that the security system is interfering with the phone line or cable I have no idea but my photos are on my computer that is not at work so I will have to post one of Cole getting his trophy when it gets fixed.............

Cole

2009-01-19T22:02:00.000-08:00

Cole got a trophy at tournament and wore his first jock strap for sparing........Grandma Cindi, Grandma Barbara and sister Macy were also there to support him!

TGIF.....

2009-01-16T06:06:00.000-08:00

This week has been crazy busy! I am attempting to get Cole signed up for T-ball. He started gymnastics with Kindergarten during the day. He loved it!! Cole has a taekwondo tournament in Albany 8am Saturday morning. Why so early is beyond me. After that I promised him we would pick up his cousin Samuel and take them to the children's museum in Salem. Tonight we are going to my aunt and uncles so Mike can take some photo's of Carly who attending her christmas school dance that had to be rescheduled. I am sure there will be some hanging out and a few drinks involved. Sunday going to PF Chang's with friends in NW Portland before Joe's concert. Then to start another exciting week @ work!! Almost done with taxes now starting on my annual licensing........I hope everyone has a good weekend and I will take some photo's to post of our adorable children!!!

Finally Gavin Dunn's 1 year picture........

2009-01-13T22:07:00.000-08:00

What a beautiful baby!!!!! I got to hang out with him tonight and he is adorable!!

Hmmm...........

2009-01-13T06:33:00.000-08:00

I have been kinda a lazy blogger lately! Not much going on. Busy with Taxes and licensing at work. Cole has a Taekwondo tournament this Saturday. This will be his first time sparing. We are going to see Mike's cousin Joe play at Satyricon in Portland Sunday evening. Maybe a little PF Chang's before hand. I think Lillian, Sam, Garret, Julie and hopefully Molly and Lindsay are going!! That should be fun. Not much else going on. I am thinking about going to see Jaime and Ashtyn in Pendleton on the weekend of the 24th we miss them like crazy. I just told Jaime to sign up for PBR tickets again for the Pendleton round up we had a blast. Who would have thought that watching professional bull riding would be so much fun!! I will try to find a picture to post I have to get out my new camera and take some pictures......

TGIF!!!

2009-01-09T07:23:00.000-08:00

I had oral surgery this week on my gums. They took flesh off the roof of my mouth and attached it along side my right lower gum where I had some receding due to a bridge I had along time ago. Any way ok the first day and now hurts like hell and I can't eat much so I am kinda grouchy.....Went to my niece Amelia's band concert last night and she did excellent. She turning out to be quiet the grown up. Her parents better watch out she is beautiful!! After taking my adorable daughter to ballet. Mike has a photo shoot tonight and the kids and I are going to have a party Macy wants to make a cake for dinner....not sure if that will happen. Saturday night going to see Shawn, Tiffany and the kids. It seems like forever since we have seen them. Getting excited for or trip to Tahoe in February!! for Mike's 40th! I did call the snowmobiling company and they said they were closed due to lack of snow. I may have to look up a snow dance for when we arrive. That would be my luck that I plan a wintery vacation and it will rain...........Well I hope everyone has a relaxing safe weekend. I need to post some pictures again one of these days.

Good time with Molly and Lindsay and the girls...

2009-01-04T12:11:00.000-08:00

We went out for George's B-Day Friday night at Divinci's I realized I really do not like Martini's much except the one we had in Seattle. It was nice and we had a good time visiting and the food was great. Saturday clean clean clean and put away christmas. Now the house looks empty. Lindsay Molly and their 3 girls came over Saturday night for dinner. We had a great time hanging out with them and seeing the kids trash the upstairs was amazing!!!! They partied. Macy wanted them back over this morning and I told she had to clean her room first. You could not even see the floor! At least they played with her toys and play clothes she doesn't. Off to Claim Jumper to tell Jake good Bye....... he fly's back to college next week. TIme goes by so fast!! Busy organizing for the end of the year and getting taxes started fun fun. I definitely need to access that gym membership I have been paying for for the last several months just too busy over the holidays.

2009!!

2009-01-02T07:35:00.000-08:00

Rang in the new year at home in PJ's with friends. The holidays were great but I am so glad they are over......I am actually tired of eating all the goodies and cooking. I felt kinda exhausted yesterday. We had Amy Mike's sister with disabilities over for christmas Sun. she lived in my foster care home for 7 years until she got to aggressive due to her brain not able to control her impulses. Any way every time I see her she makes me nuts but I love her dearly and miss her. She truly feels like my sister!! We had some pretty crazy times. It also always makes me a little bit sad that she has such significant disabilities that only allows me to see her now for short periods of time. She would have been someone I would have spent a lot of time with she has a wonderful sense of humor. I am sure she got it from my mother in law.

Ok enough of that!! Out to eat again!! Tonight with friends martini's are suppose to be good. After trying a new restaurant last week and getting deathly ill from the food. I hope this one doesn't do me in if so I will give up on eating in Salem! Then to clean up christmas decor Saturday. That should take me all day.

Jake goes back to Ohio State so we will again go out to eat in Portland to tell him good bye. I wish we would have had more time to see him but I have to remember that he is 19 and we are just not that cool!!

Well I am super late getting off to work! I stayed up late working so my day would be not so crazy and here I am tired and wasting time on the computer to stress me out about being late! It is so fun to be me sometimes........I guess who is going to care??? ME......

Beware!!!

2008-12-31T07:10:00.000-08:00

Had dinner with my two girlfriends last night. I had a great time. We ate at Johnathan's Oyster Bar which I have heard is good but I will NEVER eat there again. They were out of fish and oysters!! They also had no butter or onion rings. So I wound up with some deep fried frozen fish that I spent all morning puking up I think they almost killed me. We felt like we were on an episode of chef Ramsey kitchen nightmares. Summers steak was so raw it talked to her. Lillian's was so bad she tried to salt it for flavor. Just thought I would warn anyone that might want to eat there. I was sick as a dog!! Then we told the waitress and she said well I can only give you 15% off and another round of drinks. Maybe she thought if we were drunk the food wouldn't taste and look so awful...... Better now!!! I hope everyone has a safe and fun New years eve. We are staying home making mexican food and margarita's!! Sam and Lillian are coming over should be fun!! Well off to get ready for work talk to you in 2009!!

Marley and Me....

2008-12-29T22:44:00.001-08:00

Well I think I have ruined my son over this movie. I really had no idea what it was about and they really wanted to go see it. So Grandma Cindi and Pappa came over for pizza and we went downtown to see it! What a tear jerker.......Cole started crying before he got into he car to leave and wanted to sleep with Angus in the spare bed tonight! I had to drink a glass of water to make sure I wasn't dehydrated after my tears rolled down my face for 10 min. It is nice to honor our faithful wonderful fury family members that love us unconditionally. Or for mine anyone who will give them food!!! I can't imagine our lives with out Toro and Angus!!

Back to work.........

2008-12-29T06:43:00.001-08:00

I am ready for 2009!! I had so much fun this past few weeks we were able to see some family that we hadn't seen in way too long!! We played in the snow with the kiddies! I finally made it in to downtown Silverton to do a little shopping in our Arctic blast and talked to some great people and was amazed at what cool shops we have. I think Cindi was very patient with me while I shopped my little heart out! Now it is time to roll up my sleeves and get some end of the year stuff done and prep for a great 2009!!! I hope everyone has a good week it is hard to get back into the swing of things but I am kinda ready for it. Wow the dairy stinks right now with all this damn rain it is making me sick better go light some candles!!

Just reflecting on the last few weeks.....

2008-12-28T22:55:00.000-08:00

I have some very close friends and family that have had some really crappy times over the Holidays. I know that there is nothing I can say to make it any different other than I love you all and I know that you are all very strong wonderful people. Hang in there you all are what make me think that this time I have here isn't such a bad deal. I wish I could be there for my friend that lives far away it makes it hard to feel like I am there for her. With that said I feel like there is probably more I could do for my friends and family here. With running a business and having a family I get so damn busy and wish I had more to give. So I am wishing everyone a wonderful 2009!!! God knows I can't handle any more loss or shit in my life!!!

I added this song well actually the 2 songs Don't give up and Just dance they seemed fitting for how I was feeling while thinking about the people I love and some of the struggles they have faced. Anyway Don't give up I had listened to like 12 years ago and had not heard it for ever and I was in Banana Republic and I heard a Kate Bush song and it totally made me hop on line and look up this great song enjoy! She is the female voice with Peter Gabriel.

We had a great christmas and hope to have a great 2009!

2008-12-26T08:56:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!!!!!

2008-12-25T10:03:00.000-08:00

I wish you all a very Merry Christmas........I am sure having one. Post pictures w/ my new camera later!!!

Christmas at Mom's

2008-12-24T09:17:00.000-08:00

Snow pic's.........

2008-12-24T09:03:00.000-08:00

Our house in Silverton

My beautiful drive on 213

My house in Portland

Jake is home from Ohio State!

2008-12-18T22:29:00.000-08:00

Cole won't leave him alone!!

What will they think of next!

2008-12-18T06:43:00.001-08:00

Burger King came out with a body spray that smells like a burger!! How sick is that......The crazy part is I know a few people that would enjoy it! Kristen and I thought we would use some then go to the dog park for entertainment. Although we might get eaten alive! Merry Christmas and I hope all are surviving the Arctic Blast of 2008! I got studded tires and now feel like I could handle anything so bring it weather man.

Cookie Decorating......

2008-12-14T22:12:00.000-08:00

Cole was too crabby to participate but we had a great time!! Amelia may never want to spend the night again we baked cookies for about 4 hours. Maegan and McKenzie, Gavin, Amelia, Julie, Mom, Cindi, Macy and I frosted away. I am a sucker for cut out cookies and ate way too many!! They attempted to play in the snow but we didn't have very much. I wish anyone that is commuting in the am a save journey!

Cole is now a green belt!!

2008-12-14T22:02:00.000-08:00

I think I have found my calling!!

2008-12-13T06:59:00.001-08:00

We went to dinner with our friends Molly and Lindsay last night and had a great time. We ended up going to Iggy's in Brooks it is a little smoke free bar that has shuffle board! I could play that game for hours. These old farts beat us at took the game way too serious but I want a rematch!! It was fun!! So I was thinking of signing up for the shuffle board competition but I better practice. They have a shuffle board right now at Costco I just would have no where to put it. Maybe I need to talk to Shawn and Tiffany they have the perfect spot in their house!!! Any way it was a good time. No kids they went to grandma's and I am still up at 6:30.............On a mission to figure out how to play more shuffle board!

Getting ready for Christmas....

2008-12-12T07:21:00.000-08:00

Went to McKenzie my nieces band concert last night after ballet with Macy. It was nice to hear some christmas music and McKenzie looked beautiful and played very well. Came home and wrapped a bunch of Christmas presents. Cole is hoping for snow!!! The kids are off to grandma's tonight so we are going out with some friends to have a little christmas cheer our selves!! Cole graduates to a green belt in Taekwondo Saturday. Sunday we are baking and decorating a ton of christmas cookies. That is if I get them all baked. We will have a house full of kids to help unless the weather prevents them from coming then I guess I will have a ton of cookies to decorate!

Kids Christmas Program

2008-12-09T22:26:00.000-08:00

Cole was Jangle the elf! Macy sang a few songs including feliz navida. It was the cutes program and they were so good and performed awesome!

Went to see Santa!

2008-12-07T22:51:00.000-08:00

In my Life....

2008-12-07T08:39:00.000-08:00

Well I ran across this song in my CD changer yesterday and it brings instant lumps in my throat and tears fun down my face. This was one of my fathers favorite songs and we played it at his services when he passed away. It's been about 4 1/2 years. I have done a lot of self discovery over the last year and I must say it has not been easy. Just thinking of you Dad and thought I would share this beautiful song with whom ever wants to hear it.

Cutting the tree...........

2008-12-07T07:46:00.000-08:00

Getting our tree today!

2008-12-06T06:53:00.000-08:00

Well that is our 2nd! I always have 2 one fake so I can put it up the second we are done with Thanksgiving and we go cut one down for the smell and messy pine needles. We are attempting a family photo this afternoon. My blackberry storm came but no one was home to get it so off to Fed Ex this am to pick it up! Mike and I alway tease each other because he is an iphone man and I have always loved the blackberry so I hope it kicks his iphone's butt! So I can give him crap for it all day! We had a good time with Brian and Kellie last night at dinner for his B-Day! We got a call from the babysitters that Macy unwrapped the one gift under the tree that was for Mike while they were out of the room then told them that my Daddy said it was ok. They just wanted to know if they could wrap it back up for us! Macy is such a pill sometimes but has a ton of personality!!

Pic from last christmas!

Macy Ballet

2008-12-05T05:40:00.000-08:00

Last night was parent observation night at Macy's ballet class. This was the first time I have seen the class in action. It was to cute for words!! She made so many ugly faces at the camera I really didn't get any great photos but here are a few pics. Then went to Summers for a candle party! It was nice to see her there just isn't enough time anymore to spend time with all my amazing friends!!!!

Cole got his sparing gear!!!

2008-12-03T22:49:00.000-08:00

Europe!

2008-12-02T22:45:00.001-08:00

I deleted my last post on Europe due to my opinion offending someone who I never thought would read my blog! It was not to create drama although someone turned it in to that. I am entitled to my opinion. For someone who asked in a legal settlement to never have to see us or talk to us. I was kinda floored that her Niece would follow my blog. Unless my 1 person who follows it felt obligated to create drama. Anyway it was to really talk about the trip and I just added my frustration about the situation and removed it to keep the peace. I would recommend you not read my blog if you don't like me in the first place. Makes no sense to me......I think I wear my feelings on my sleeve so probably nothing you didn't already know.

Merry Christmas!!

2008-12-02T06:30:00.000-08:00

Finished most of my Christmas cards last night at 11pm!! Got one tree up and getting the next on Saturday!! The kids have their Christmas program on Monday eve. Cole is going to be Gangle the elf. We got his costume Sunday. Making our gingerbread house on family night the kids are so excited.!! I do wish our christmas lights were on the house but hopefully this week!! I am trying my best to not get too stressed and enjoy this holiday season!!

Happy December 1st.........

2008-12-01T06:46:00.000-08:00

Wow busy busy busy.....I cannot believe it is December! I am sure I will be blogging away with adorable photos of the kiddies this month. I am also making them MAC books for the year with all their amazing photos I have taken so I will share some as I go. When I start that is. Between getting taxes prepared for work, holiday activities, ballet classes for Macy, Taekwondo for Cole and everything else that goes with December. But I will get it all done I always do. I hope we all have a safe happy low stress (ha ha ha) Holiday season!

Last year!

I need to tell people how wonderful Tera is.........

2008-11-28T23:13:00.000-08:00

I have been meaning to post a blog about Tera my dear friend who rocked my world last week. We had lunch and she asked me if I had received anything from Dornbecker's lately and I told her yeah I just throw that stuff away they are always looking for donations. Well she told me that when my brother died this year in an auto accident she had a brick put up at the Hospital in his name to honor him in the head trauma unit. There were suppose to send me a letter and let me know. I cannot tell you how much that meant to me that she took the time and effort to do that for him. Tera, Toi and Sara came to Cris's services to help me get through the day and I cannot thank them and tell them how much I appreciated and needed them. I wasn't sure how I was going to survive the day and because of my husband and the wonderful amazing people in my life I did. Tera you are one of the most tender hearted people I know and I love you!

Up at 4am......

2008-11-28T23:05:00.000-08:00

Up at about 4 am and off with my mother in law to shop! I think I have charged enough on my alaska card get to fly around the world twice!! My draw for next month should just go to Bank of America!! We had a great time home about 1:45 took a nap and a shower and back out with Ms. Macy for a bit. I think I am starting to get tired so good night for now.

My husband and friends are amazing....

2008-11-23T22:07:00.000-08:00

Mike gave me the most amazing weekend!! He took me to the salem train station and then Shawn and Tiffany surprised me in Portland!!! Then we all rode to Seattle and stayed at the Inn at the Market. We had stayed there for our anniversary in the past. We went to 3 doors down and ate some amazing food and then off to Zig Zag's for the best martini ever!! Saturday he surprised me with a 1/2 day spa day! That was wonderful and so fun to do with Tiffany!! We then left and he gave me money for shopping! We went shopping and then went to an excellent dinner at El Gaucho's. We had a few bottles of wine then off to find some live music. We went to a club and had a few drinks and I kinda got silly with the camera. Here are a few photos!! Thanks to my wonderful husband, Shawn and Tiffany for the best weekend EVER!!!!

Mike's surprise is killing me......

2008-11-20T06:26:00.000-08:00

So my husband has something planned for me this weekend and I have no idea what!! That makes a person like me crazy! I am excited but also stressed I don't know if we are flying somewhere driving or what. All I know is Cindi has the kids this weekend because she asked if she could take them to ride an old horse in Molalla. I want more info. I think he said he would tell me more today. I do know I have to be ready to go by 8:45 am Friday morning?

Twilight @ midnight!!!

2008-11-20T06:23:00.000-08:00

I am getting excited to go see my teen vampire movie @ midnight so Kelsey if you ditch me I guess myself and all of Silverton High School will be @ the palace theater at 12:01. It better be good because anymore it takes all I got to stay up until midnight let alone 2 am.

My Son is so CUTE!!

2008-11-19T06:14:00.000-08:00

I went to Julies last night for dinner, wine and hair color. Well when I got home Cole and Macy were brushing teeth and going to bed. I laid in bed with Cole and we were talking about the day and he said to me "well mom you better let me get some sleep I have a busy day tomorrow.

Went to kids Thanksgiving program

2008-11-17T22:34:00.000-08:00

They both were so cute!!

Thank You!

2008-11-17T06:48:00.000-08:00

Had friends and family over Saturday night for cake for my B-Day. Not that it is any fun getting older.....I had a great time!! Mike built a fire outside in the fire pit it was a perfect clear cold night. The kids had fun playing and I enjoyed seeing everyone. Thank you!!

Santorini

2008-11-15T08:11:00.000-08:00

OK this is for Chris Dixon I read your post and I also got up early enough to see the donkeys at breakfast at least 1 morning. Here is a picture to prove it. Every morning the hotel brought us an amazing breakfast and these donkeys would walk by on their way to work. They would haul lazy people up and down the steps to the water. We walked it and it was hot and alot of donkey poop!! That was an amazing trip thanks Kim and Chris!

Pity Party Over....

2008-11-13T06:36:00.000-08:00

I am planning a trip to Europe with my brother Brian and our spouses. We are looking at Croatia, Germany, Hungary something like that we should meet with the travel agent and make some decisions this week. Looking forward to Mike's 40th b-day we are going to Tahoe for some snowmobiling and spend time with his closest friends that he has grown up with in February. Macy called her girlfriend Ashtyn last night and hopefully with in the next year they will be able to go to Disneyland together. Macy was so cute telling her she needs to trick or treat with her and go see Santa. They have spent a lot of Holidays together and she really misses her! She may get to see her in a few weeks. Cole has been busy circling the toy ads for Santa!! They both have a Thanksgiving program on Mon. 17th it will be so cute. I will miss when they start public school and are not allowed to do as much holiday celebrating at school. We have a Thanksgiving advent calendar at home and in the evening we all write or say what we are thankful for and it is getting relaxed Cole was thankful that he had a slip in slide, Macy was thankful for food, Mike was thankful for a cozy bed and I was thankful for being in my PJ's @ 6:21 pm. We already did the thankful for family and what not so now it is time to get creative.

WE MISS YOU ASHTYN!!!

Unbelievable..........

2008-11-11T20:11:00.000-08:00

I am trying not to be frustrated, upset and angry!! My sister in law did not bother to call me today instead called my brother Brian's wife knowing we work and were already busy. To let her know that with in the hour they were spreading my brother Cris's ashes. It really saddens me that she had the nerve to not even ask us to come or give us a chance to be a part of that. I guess it really doesn't matter but if I would have known I would have been there to pay my respects, say good bye and to support my nieces. I am trying not to give her the satisfaction of hurting me but how can it not. I wasn't even called or told. I guess in the end it just made the day that much harder.

November 11, 2008

2008-11-11T09:19:00.000-08:00

Today would have been my brother Cris's 42nd birthday. He was killed in a motorcycle accident July 23rd this year. May he rest in peace.

I am not a teenager anymore!!!

2008-11-04T06:30:00.000-08:00

We went to see Matt Nathanson in Eugene last night! It was a strange concert @ WOW Hall. It looked and felt like a gym and there were about 150 people from college students to people in their 50's and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. He had a truly amazing voice!! But with that said today is going to be hell running on 4 1/2 hour of sleep. We took our cousin Joe and the it was so cool watching him and how excited he was to get to see him and get photos with him and autographs.

I can't believe it is November....

2008-11-03T06:37:00.000-08:00

Had a great time at the Metallica concert!!!! We were in one of the suites at the Rose Garden and it was a good time!! Spent most of the day Sunday recovering. Played games with the kids and watched movies. Took down Halloween decor and put up thanksgiving. Where does the times go? I am sad Halloween is over.....Macy starts ballet on thursday. We cancelled swim lessons to damn cold at the Silverton pool kids were miserable. Taekwondo and ballet is plenty for now. Busy week as usual.

Trick-0r-treat!!

2008-11-01T08:28:00.001-07:00

Cole"s school Halloween Party

2008-11-01T08:21:00.001-07:00

Macy's pre-school Halloween Party

2008-10-30T22:38:00.000-07:00

Went to Macy's school party today! The kids were so cute!! I was there early to help out and WOW teachers have to have a lot of Patience.

Cole working hard at school.

Kelsey and I at work Halloween Party

2008-10-29T23:07:00.000-07:00

Wow can I pet it!

Still recovering from girls weekend!!

2008-10-28T22:50:00.000-07:00

Had a great girls weekend at the beach!!! Getting the kids ready for Halloween and the parties at school. Having a party at work tomorrow night. We are going to Metallica in a suite at the Rose Garden on Saturday night!! Cole got a huge metal last weekend @ his taekwondo tournament. I was sad I missed it but Mike said he was really confident and did a great job!! Macy is starting ballet hopefully next week! They went to a benefit concert Saturday night and then to Shawn's to hang out with the boys and the kids left behind from the beach trip. We carved pumpkins and I took a pic of Cole at his class tonight. His hair was so funny I got it wet and then put gel in it. He was watching hocus pocus in the car with headphones on and he had a flat band of hair.....I guess you had to have been there.......

Kids started swim lessons....

2008-10-21T23:40:00.000-07:00

Cole loved it and Macy was ok until she got cold! I felt bad because I get really cold too and I hate that feeling. They both did great Macy would have enjoyed it more if she wasn't freezing.

Macy went to Pumpkin patch with Pre-school and Daddy

2008-10-21T23:28:00.000-07:00

Macy and Dad sure seemed to have fun today! I was sad that I missed going with her class but happy Dad got to go!

Cole's kindergarten field trip to pumpkin patch....

2008-10-20T22:28:00.000-07:00

Cookie Decorating....

2008-10-19T22:38:00.000-07:00

Well I learned a valuable lesson! It does not pay to cut corners....I purchased pre-made frosting to decorate cookies and it just wasn't the same. Oh well I sent them all home with the kids so at-least I won't eat them. Macy starts swim lessons Tues. Mom and Cole are headed to the pumpkin patch with kindergarten tomorrow in the rain. Dad is going with Macy on Tues.