We have had a really fun weekend!
Lots of family time, which we've really needed after weeks of busy, busy school and work days.
Friday night, my big sis came down from Rockford and joined me at Girlfriend's Night, which is a comedy/dinner. We had so much fun! Great girly time. And great food...catered in from Carabbas. She spent the night and we stayed up late, watching chick shows. Super fun sista time!
Saturday, I took Reese to a classmate's birthday party. It's the first he's been invited to. So cute! We had to cut out early, tho, to make it to Mark's football game. It was round one of the playoffs. Mark's team took on the Joliet Raiders, who (in my opinion) play awfully dirty. We beat them, tho! Yay! And Ryan did another awesome job announcing the game over the stadium speakers. He makes the game so fun and comical with his comments and sound effects. lol. So, yes! Joliet was beat and are done for the season while Mark's team moves on to round two of the playoffs. They will have a chance to redeem themselves against Frankfurt! The team that just barely squeezed out a touchdown in the final 28 seconds of the game a few weeks ago! This will be quite a showdown! Go Panthers! The winner of this game will go to the semi-finals! So exciting!
Saturday night, we ate at our favorite restaurant. Okay, not our total favorite....but the only one that feeds our family on exactly $13. The one-and-only Taco Bell! Gotta love dining on a budget! lol! Then we came home and watched a movie as a family.
Sunday was church. Ryan and I helped lead Kid's Connection for both morning services, since Pastor Michael was out of town. It went really well. I sang with the worship team, and Ryan did an awesome job speaking to the 4th and 5th graders. I'm so proud of him! After church, we came home for some lunch and a string of NFL games, which included our very own Chicago Bears! What an upset! We were screaming our heads off when they scored and took the lead with 11 seconds remaining in the game. Then, with literally 1 second on the clock, the Falcons kicked a field goal, winning the game. Holy smokes! Who knew?? After we regained a normal breathing pattern, we phoned Ryan's parents, who invited us out for dinner. Dinner at Kiku's which is a really posh sushi house. The kids love watching the cooks fire up the grill on our table and toss up eggs and utensils and catch them in their shirt pockets and stuff. Fun tricks. Then we headed back to their place to sit around their firepit in the backyard while the kids jumped on the trampoline and played with the puppy. I love it! Watching the kids create fun memories at Grandma and Papa's house. Then we headed home to put the kids to bed and watch one more flick with Mark (we're really trying to take advantage of every moment!) But not before stopping at Meijer on the way home and picking up a copy of Sleeping Beauty on dvd for Marina. Which was a good deal, because it came with a free Princess doll. She was thrilled!
Monday (Columbus Day) the kiddies had no school. I had no daycare kids. So Rye took the day off as well. We got to sleep in. So nice! After breakfast, Ryan took Mark out to a jogging path in Naperville. They jogged 3 miles together! I'm so proud of them! We had fun playing all day (altho, I did make Mark do some reading throughout the day). And Ryan and I had some really good conversation over coffee, which we NEVER have time to do! What an awesome day! Right now, the boys are outside playing catch while I update the blog. We are going to have dinner soon...and, you guessed it, watch another flick! We are trying to get thru our list of "gotta-see-that-someday" movies.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Round 2 of the Debates
My mind is soooo swimming.
The more I watch and listen, the more frustrated I become.
I think Obama was a much better speaker in last night's debate.
Much more persuasive and succint. Yet, I don't agree with his policies.
Then there's McCain, who I feel has much more experience and has more ideas that I do agree with. Yet, I think he did a terrible job conveying his message last night. Arrggg!!! I've had it. I think I'll take a break from this nonsense.
Focus on other things. Like Bible Study! We're going thru a great one!
I've got some awesome quotes I will post later today. When I can think clearly.
The more I watch and listen, the more frustrated I become.
I think Obama was a much better speaker in last night's debate.
Much more persuasive and succint. Yet, I don't agree with his policies.
Then there's McCain, who I feel has much more experience and has more ideas that I do agree with. Yet, I think he did a terrible job conveying his message last night. Arrggg!!! I've had it. I think I'll take a break from this nonsense.
Focus on other things. Like Bible Study! We're going thru a great one!
I've got some awesome quotes I will post later today. When I can think clearly.
Monday, October 6, 2008
This Week in Media...
...and what a busy week this has been in the media!
From sports to politics to economic news...aye!
Let's start with sports...those poor, poor Cubbies.
Even I (a non-baseball fan) sat and watched the playoff games. And sadly we watched them end their season in the 1st round of playoffs. I am truly becoming a believer of the Cubby curse. They play so darn well all season long, just to be defeated post-season. If you looked into the players' eyes during this last game, they had the look of defeat in their stare even before they entered the 3rd inning. Why?? A friend of mine, who is a huge baseball fan, has taken the time to try to explain all that goes into pro baseball. She has described to me how difficult it is to become an MLB player as well as all the hoops those guys have to jump through just to make it onto the field. So, I really appreciate the sport (even though I think the season is waaaaay too long, and way too boring). And I appreciate what a big deal it is for the Cubbies to have played so stinkin' well these past few years. And that makes it so sad (even for me) to see their season abruptly ended so close to the World Series....That brings us to the Sox. Yes, I can mention the 2 teams in the same paragragh, b/c I am not necessarily a fan of either. (Altho, Ryan is much more a Cubs fan than Sox, so I tend to follow his lead). And here, they are still in the game. Interesting. Then there's football. Ahh yeah! Where it's do-or-die out on the field. Both of our fave teams, Indy Colts and Chicago Bears played amazing games this weekend. That puts a smile on our faces.
Next comes politics...and can I just say, following these events has been almost as exciting as watching sporting events?? As far as the debates go, I think it is so interesting to view. It's fun to see the candidates spar and attack. But, it truly has not made me any less confused as to 'who voted for what' and 'who stands for what'. As they argue about menial points, I'm left to wonder who in the world is telling the truth!?! Apparently, making up one's mind about candidates requires a whole lot of personal research and digging down into each of the candidates' voting records and past accomplishments (or lack thereof). So, as I try to sift through websites and forums and nitty gritty info, it has been fun to watch the SNL paradies of these recent interviews and debates. Can I also just mention, I am a new huge fan of Tina Fey??? Oh my word! She is a perfect Sarah Palin. Too too funny!
And the econimic crisis...whatever. It makes my head spin. I'm grateful for the home we own, as modest as it may be. And the cars we drive, as boring as they are. And the fact that we have food on our table, heated rooms in the morning, and jobs to clock into on Monday mornings. All we can do is watch and listen, as those who are 'in charge' make decisions to try to clean up this mess. And in the meantime...why is it that gas prices are tremendously low??? I mean, I'm not complaining or anything. Just wondering.
Lastly, as I reflect on this past week, I gotta mention the Missions Conference at church. It is a semi-anual event, and this time we focused on the ministries of Dr. Beta Mengistu, from Addis Abbaba, Ethiopia. We were able to hear both him and his son speak throughout the week about their church that brings in a wide array of people, from homeless families off the street all the way up to international dignitaries. And God is totally at work! They also explained the amazing programs they have created to aid the mountainside-residing, HIV infested communities that have distanced themselves from the city as outcasts. They are severely poverished and face dire physical, emotional, and spiritual destitution. It is so sad. So, this weekend in service, we as a congregation were called to participate in the "One Day Challenge" which is an opportunity for each family to give one day's salary to these efforts in Ethiopia. Ryan and I are so excited to take part in this project! We feel strongly that our own blessings and opportunity for career and lifestyle in the US can be used as a tool in God's hand to reach all the way around the world. Starting with giving up just one day's pay. That's pretty neat.
So, that's our week. The only other thing I would mention is that on Friday night, Ryan and I enjoyed a great date-nite. Dinner and movie, with a late night Starbux visit with our best friends. Thanks Danielle for being the best babysitter and watching the kiddies so we could have a fun night out! xoxo
From sports to politics to economic news...aye!
Let's start with sports...those poor, poor Cubbies.
Even I (a non-baseball fan) sat and watched the playoff games. And sadly we watched them end their season in the 1st round of playoffs. I am truly becoming a believer of the Cubby curse. They play so darn well all season long, just to be defeated post-season. If you looked into the players' eyes during this last game, they had the look of defeat in their stare even before they entered the 3rd inning. Why?? A friend of mine, who is a huge baseball fan, has taken the time to try to explain all that goes into pro baseball. She has described to me how difficult it is to become an MLB player as well as all the hoops those guys have to jump through just to make it onto the field. So, I really appreciate the sport (even though I think the season is waaaaay too long, and way too boring). And I appreciate what a big deal it is for the Cubbies to have played so stinkin' well these past few years. And that makes it so sad (even for me) to see their season abruptly ended so close to the World Series....That brings us to the Sox. Yes, I can mention the 2 teams in the same paragragh, b/c I am not necessarily a fan of either. (Altho, Ryan is much more a Cubs fan than Sox, so I tend to follow his lead). And here, they are still in the game. Interesting. Then there's football. Ahh yeah! Where it's do-or-die out on the field. Both of our fave teams, Indy Colts and Chicago Bears played amazing games this weekend. That puts a smile on our faces.
Next comes politics...and can I just say, following these events has been almost as exciting as watching sporting events?? As far as the debates go, I think it is so interesting to view. It's fun to see the candidates spar and attack. But, it truly has not made me any less confused as to 'who voted for what' and 'who stands for what'. As they argue about menial points, I'm left to wonder who in the world is telling the truth!?! Apparently, making up one's mind about candidates requires a whole lot of personal research and digging down into each of the candidates' voting records and past accomplishments (or lack thereof). So, as I try to sift through websites and forums and nitty gritty info, it has been fun to watch the SNL paradies of these recent interviews and debates. Can I also just mention, I am a new huge fan of Tina Fey??? Oh my word! She is a perfect Sarah Palin. Too too funny!
And the econimic crisis...whatever. It makes my head spin. I'm grateful for the home we own, as modest as it may be. And the cars we drive, as boring as they are. And the fact that we have food on our table, heated rooms in the morning, and jobs to clock into on Monday mornings. All we can do is watch and listen, as those who are 'in charge' make decisions to try to clean up this mess. And in the meantime...why is it that gas prices are tremendously low??? I mean, I'm not complaining or anything. Just wondering.
Lastly, as I reflect on this past week, I gotta mention the Missions Conference at church. It is a semi-anual event, and this time we focused on the ministries of Dr. Beta Mengistu, from Addis Abbaba, Ethiopia. We were able to hear both him and his son speak throughout the week about their church that brings in a wide array of people, from homeless families off the street all the way up to international dignitaries. And God is totally at work! They also explained the amazing programs they have created to aid the mountainside-residing, HIV infested communities that have distanced themselves from the city as outcasts. They are severely poverished and face dire physical, emotional, and spiritual destitution. It is so sad. So, this weekend in service, we as a congregation were called to participate in the "One Day Challenge" which is an opportunity for each family to give one day's salary to these efforts in Ethiopia. Ryan and I are so excited to take part in this project! We feel strongly that our own blessings and opportunity for career and lifestyle in the US can be used as a tool in God's hand to reach all the way around the world. Starting with giving up just one day's pay. That's pretty neat.
So, that's our week. The only other thing I would mention is that on Friday night, Ryan and I enjoyed a great date-nite. Dinner and movie, with a late night Starbux visit with our best friends. Thanks Danielle for being the best babysitter and watching the kiddies so we could have a fun night out! xoxo
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Dirty Television
Is it me?? Or has television gotten out of control??
I admit, I have been out of the "TV-loop" for some time now. We purposely located our big screen (the only tv connected to cable) in our basement so that we won't be tempted to watch the tube all day long. And that's a good thing! I am finally free of my 10yr long soap opera addiction (blush), and my kids rarely flip on cartoons. They are busy doing other things. So, our plan is successful.
But, now that it is football season, we are spending our Sunday and Monday evenings watching NFL, which of course includes a multitude of commercials and previews to weekly shows. And I am appalled at some of the content! I'm uncomfortable watching the commercials! I cannot imagine sitting through entire filthy shows!
I know I was pretty desensitized in past years, when the TV was on more frequently and we would plan our schedules around specific shows. But now that our television viewing is scarce, I guess it's pretty shocking to see the things that people allow into their minds every night. Even on kid's channels. I've been offended by some of the shows that show kids kissing on each other, being disrespectful to parents, and just being punks! Not what I want my kids digesting!
So, I don't know if I am just getting old, or out of touch, or if it truly took us taking some time away from the tube to really set our senses straight and realize the garbage that fills the line-up. Yuck!
I admit, I have been out of the "TV-loop" for some time now. We purposely located our big screen (the only tv connected to cable) in our basement so that we won't be tempted to watch the tube all day long. And that's a good thing! I am finally free of my 10yr long soap opera addiction (blush), and my kids rarely flip on cartoons. They are busy doing other things. So, our plan is successful.
But, now that it is football season, we are spending our Sunday and Monday evenings watching NFL, which of course includes a multitude of commercials and previews to weekly shows. And I am appalled at some of the content! I'm uncomfortable watching the commercials! I cannot imagine sitting through entire filthy shows!
I know I was pretty desensitized in past years, when the TV was on more frequently and we would plan our schedules around specific shows. But now that our television viewing is scarce, I guess it's pretty shocking to see the things that people allow into their minds every night. Even on kid's channels. I've been offended by some of the shows that show kids kissing on each other, being disrespectful to parents, and just being punks! Not what I want my kids digesting!
So, I don't know if I am just getting old, or out of touch, or if it truly took us taking some time away from the tube to really set our senses straight and realize the garbage that fills the line-up. Yuck!
Monday, September 29, 2008
More football...sorry!
Mark's team took on New Lenox on Saturday...and they won! The final score was something like 33-12. A very exciting game! That concludes their regular season with a record of 5 wins and 3 losses. Now we have a 'by' week, then on to the playoffs. Fun times.
Since we were all the way out in New Lenox for the game, we decided to grab some lunch as a family, when Mark's game finished, and then we returned to the field to catch the Varsity game (another slaughter win!) while Mark played around the bleachers with some of his teammates.
Lots of football families spend the entire day on the field, as they have several kids on the various team levels. Next year, Reese will be old enough to join Superlight, and Mark will continue to play on Lightweight, which means we will have 2 games to sit thru. Then, when Marina is 6, she will be old enough to cheer for Superlight...and by then Mark will be on Varsity, so we will be one of those families spending the entire day on the bleachers, supporting our kids.
I really don't mind tho. It's so fun to hang out with other football families, and cheer each others' kids on. And it's fun to see Reese and Marina proudly cheer for their big brother. It's also a good excuse for Ryan and I to sit close on the bleachers, like we did in high school, and share a pack of M&Ms or some nachos. lol. Good memories. Good times.
Since we were all the way out in New Lenox for the game, we decided to grab some lunch as a family, when Mark's game finished, and then we returned to the field to catch the Varsity game (another slaughter win!) while Mark played around the bleachers with some of his teammates.
Lots of football families spend the entire day on the field, as they have several kids on the various team levels. Next year, Reese will be old enough to join Superlight, and Mark will continue to play on Lightweight, which means we will have 2 games to sit thru. Then, when Marina is 6, she will be old enough to cheer for Superlight...and by then Mark will be on Varsity, so we will be one of those families spending the entire day on the bleachers, supporting our kids.
I really don't mind tho. It's so fun to hang out with other football families, and cheer each others' kids on. And it's fun to see Reese and Marina proudly cheer for their big brother. It's also a good excuse for Ryan and I to sit close on the bleachers, like we did in high school, and share a pack of M&Ms or some nachos. lol. Good memories. Good times.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
'Underdogs' Update...
Last night, Mark's team played the game that had been rained out...against undefeated Frankfurt. They played at the OEHS stadium, under the lights. Just like a pro. It was super fun.
And it was a super intense game! Both teams have incredible defense. So, the game was completely scoreless until the very last 28 seconds of the game! Frankfurt weaseled out a quick touchdown! So they won the game that our guys had played soooo well! What a letdown! But also, what a great game our kids played! I told Mark that in our minds, that was a WIN for our team, because of how well our team played. It could have gone either way, but of course, Frankfurt made that lucky touchdown in the final 28 SECONDS of the game! Furthuring their undefeated status.
Oh well! It was a very intense and very fun game to watch.
And who knows...maybe we'll meet up with them again in the playoffs!
And it was a super intense game! Both teams have incredible defense. So, the game was completely scoreless until the very last 28 seconds of the game! Frankfurt weaseled out a quick touchdown! So they won the game that our guys had played soooo well! What a letdown! But also, what a great game our kids played! I told Mark that in our minds, that was a WIN for our team, because of how well our team played. It could have gone either way, but of course, Frankfurt made that lucky touchdown in the final 28 SECONDS of the game! Furthuring their undefeated status.
Oh well! It was a very intense and very fun game to watch.
And who knows...maybe we'll meet up with them again in the playoffs!
"These are a few of my FAVORITE things..."
The scent of Marky's thick, buzzed haircut. It smells like a cushiony foam pillow mixed with shampoo. The way his freckles dance across the bridge of his nose and his belly laugh when his dad cracks a joke. The way he wrestles with his little brother, taking a beating from the 5yr old that is out for real blood, while keeping his cool and his sense-of-humor at arms' reach.
Watching little Reese sleep, all snuggled up in our bed. His fine silky hair draped across the pillow. The way he scrunches up his tiny, little nose when he laughs. And his shyness that rears its head up when we drench him with tickles and attention and compliments. The way he always busts out with random rhymes from school or quotes from movies.
Marina's chubby little neck that I could kiss on all day long. The way she sets up all her toy animals in a straight line on the coffee table with total precision and care. Her eyelashes framing those jeweled-blue eyes that make me want to melt. Her frown when she's unhappy that can easily be turned into dimples with a quick tickle or swinging embrace.
Watching little Reese sleep, all snuggled up in our bed. His fine silky hair draped across the pillow. The way he scrunches up his tiny, little nose when he laughs. And his shyness that rears its head up when we drench him with tickles and attention and compliments. The way he always busts out with random rhymes from school or quotes from movies.
Marina's chubby little neck that I could kiss on all day long. The way she sets up all her toy animals in a straight line on the coffee table with total precision and care. Her eyelashes framing those jeweled-blue eyes that make me want to melt. Her frown when she's unhappy that can easily be turned into dimples with a quick tickle or swinging embrace.
