Little Log of Mine

North Carolina - Day Two

2011-04-29T21:12:00.001-04:00

Aunt Becky has an art studio in her house. It has perfect light!

We took the train into the big city! It was actually a lot of fun! The girls had a blast and Supergirl learned about concrete and sky scrapers.

Then we stopped at a really cool sandwich shop. The girls were treated to milk, hotdogs, and sunday's.

Then we were off again!

A highlight which stopped Supergirl in her tracks. Which is actually saying a lot! These girls had stores and stores of energy!

I only post these next two, because I want to point out her calves. I dream of having such calves.

It was a beautiful day, with beautiful people.

South Carolina - Day One

2011-04-29T21:05:00.001-04:00

We made a quick but super fun trip to South Carolina a few weeks agao. It was soooooo pretty there! The following were in Aunt Becky's yard. Which was sooooo pretty.

Then we headed over to Cousin Marcus and Marcy's to introduce Emily to Emily and Chloe! They hit it off right away, and were very entertaining! They played together, ate together, played together, and then gave us several shows! We laughed and laughed and laughed!

Then there were tears when we had to leave. In my defense, it was after eleven o'clock at night! Way past my bedtime!

Tampa Competition 2011

2011-04-19T10:13:00.001-04:00

Our first competition of 2011! We were at the Florida State Fair. There were roller coasters, helicopters, traffic and more all around us!

Both teams did extremely well, and had so much fun!

WCHS Field Trip - Lowry Park Zoo

2011-04-19T10:08:00.001-04:00

We had a wonderful time on this trip! The zoo is really nice, and has a good selection of animals! Although it does have several rides that seemed to be more enticing to the kids than the education of the animals!

Pregnant kangaroo... Look closely you'll see the tail sticking out!

The one casualty of the day... full body coated in sunscreen and an itchy eye don't mix!

Valentine Party Box

2011-02-08T07:42:00.001-05:00

Supergirl has her first Valentine's Party today. We are very excited. We've got her cards done, and ready to hand out. We've got the outfit picked out. We've got a small problem. She was running a fever in the middle of the night. I'll see how she feels when she gets up, but my fingers are crossed she doesn't have to miss her party.

She also has Dance and Jr. Horseman today. So it's not a good day to be sick!

Back to the point here... We got her box done, so all her little buddies can fill it up with cards!

It started out as a foam mailbox from Michaels, but we put our own flair on it. The frillier the better, right?!

Say a prayer this morning that she is not sick when she gets up!

Sand Hill Cranes

2011-02-08T07:34:00.001-05:00

Aunt Becky, Heather, Supergirl, and I took the golf cart (so we could sneak), and went looking for two male Whooping Cranes. They were staying at this pretty pond.

But, apparently they'd already moved on.

We did find these Sand Hill Cranes, which are quite beautiful birds!

Woods and Water

2011-02-01T07:07:00.001-05:00

We started out the day on a trail ride in Payne's Prairie.

Supergirl snacks on a cookie...

It was such a beautiful day that we didn't want to stay inside. So we got in the car with Grandma, Aunt Becky, and Theresa and went for a drive. Supergirl picked out directions.

We stopped in Otter Creek to take pictures of old stuff...

Have a popsicle...

and we were off again...

We ended up in Cedar Key.

We had lunch at Tony's, and headed home just in time to see the sunset out the back window.

American Idol - Home version.

2011-01-29T06:56:00.002-05:00

Supergirl loves to watch AI. She loves to sing even more.

I caught her 'auditioning' yesterday.

She even had judges. Three of them. Who would either send her home or send her to Hollywood. Whether she got her golden ticket or got sent home, she acted it out until the end.

This is her going home face.

And here is one of her winning auditions!

Thank You.

2011-01-20T20:10:00.001-05:00

In case we didn't say already....

Thank you for the car. We so love it.

It is a dream.

Ancient Egypt

2011-01-20T20:04:00.001-05:00

We have to incorporate an art project into every study! For Ancient Egypt we made some scarab stones and an Egyptian Collar (which I forgot to take pictures of).

We use a book called Global Art. The craft projects are arranged by continent.

Multiple Subjects

2011-01-20T08:50:00.002-05:00

One of the joys of homeschooling is that we can tackle multiple subjects at once, thus experiencing great joy in checking those pesky "to-do's" off the daily list!

Here we have: Bible, music, dance, P.E., reading, and a break-time all in one 20 minute period.

And yes, she gets to do it in her undies.

Sunday Snapshot

2011-01-17T09:08:00.001-05:00

Taken with my big new 70-200mm!

Of course, it helps that my subject is sooooo cute!

Polebending Leadline

2011-01-08T07:01:00.000-05:00

Christmas Afternoon 2010

2010-12-25T16:40:00.000-05:00

And the fun continues!

Mother may I:

One of my highlights of the day:

I don't know if it was good or bad, but there was no football on tv!? They were actually watching Star Wars! We all became enthralled in the movie at one point or another during the day. From the way Bob is sawing some logs, I'll assume this one was taken after dinner.

Christmas Morning 2010

2010-12-25T09:52:00.000-05:00

This was a fun year! Also the first year that I had to hide her gifts... the little sneak!

Christmas Evening 2010

2010-12-25T07:09:00.000-05:00

Next stop: Clewiston!

Christmas Cookies!

2010-12-24T19:29:00.000-05:00

We decorated cookies at Aunt Geni's on Christmas Eve. It was a little unexpected, so I just ran to the store and got pre-made everything. We still had lots of fun, but none of the mess. I think I'm on to something!

This is Supergirl waiting while I set up the camera. hehe. I like torturing her sometimes.

Look at Aunt Geni's face. Supergirl was doing something bad!

Aunt Geni's Santa Claus (Picassa-esqe)

Supergirls Iguana.

She named it. We laughed very hard.

Christmas at Aunt Geni's

2010-12-23T19:19:00.000-05:00

The evening started with a little wrestling (as usual), until they both got hurt!

Emily got a princess castle! Sounds great huh. Well it has 1,500 pieces. Literally. It said so on the box, and mom still got it for her!?

Aunt Geni got a warm up suit. She never got to wear it. I gave it to my sister. Geni's been gone for a week as I write. I really have to remind myself she's moved on, because it's just so hard to believe.

Mom got a cell phone. VERY useful! It's so nice to get ahold of her when I need to.

While the women were chatting, Supergirl amused herself... What did I do before I could stick that phone in her face to distract her??

Doe Tag

2010-12-18T23:07:00.002-05:00

Rob got a doe tag, so he decided it would be a good idea to go as a family!

I'm sure he thought it was a good idea at first anyway, until he had to carry our pink guns through the woods. He doesn't seem to mind. He's got Pure Confidence, if you remember ;)

Oh yea, we were in a tree stand.

I'll admit, I nearly had a panic attack, coronary, and a stroke all at the same time when we first got Supergirl up.

She didn't mind at all. Not one bit. She held my head and kept saying, "it will be alright baby."

Yes, my life is completely backwards in every way.

We had this behind us:

We came home empty handed, but our hearts were full!

Can't stop.

2010-12-13T22:39:00.001-05:00

-May 2010

The other day, actually several months after this photo was taken, Supergirl came up behind me, gave me a hug, and said, "mommy I love you and I just can't stop loving you."

It was one of those moments that I want to hold on to forever.

Fueling up!

2010-12-13T15:12:00.001-05:00

Today our homeschool group went caroling at a nursing home.

Supergirl is fueling up!

Snapshot

2010-12-13T15:11:00.001-05:00

Making Masterpieces!

2010-12-13T15:09:00.001-05:00

E & Supergirl didn't get enough art in class, so they continued!

Big Cypress Board Walk

2010-12-01T15:06:00.000-05:00

Maly Wedding

2010-11-29T10:30:00.001-05:00

This one was a long time coming, but when they decided to do it, they did it right. It was one of the most special moments I've ever had the privilege of being a part of.

These two are very much in love, and trust me, there is more than a little spice to their life!

Lovely and thoughtful thank you gifts...

And they lived happily ever after...

Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T07:24:00.000-05:00

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving on the farm. The kids seemed to have a total blast. At some point they were stopped, and force fed; but they were off and running again. They were all dirty from head to toe (Those lower to the ground a little dirtier!). It was awesome.

We had a hay ride, where we fed the cows and horses carrots and other scraps.

Our newest couple to be married in 2012!

Unfortunately, I didn't get enough pictures of the day! I didn't even get the food until it was ravaged!

I did my first turkey (special thanks to PW and Martha Stewart), and it was delicious, albeit a little late. :)

Art Class - Pinch Pot

2010-11-17T09:22:00.000-05:00

Our homeschool group takes an art class once a week from Ms. Beryl. She is wonderful and patient with the students and everyone really enjoys the class!

This week they started pottery, and made a pinch pot.

Miss perfectionist trying to get it right. Look at the concentration!

Lovely creations! Happy students!

WHA

2010-11-13T09:24:00.000-05:00

Williston Speed Series

Supergirl rides alone in the warm up pen!

November Mini Session

2010-11-07T14:45:00.001-05:00

Today was the first day we were able to wear our Fall clothes to church, so I took advantage of the opportunity! And bribed her with cartoons... ;)

Adjust your eyes, because I went with a few different processing styles here!

------------------

Black and Whites:

I couldn't resist this one!

------------------

Clean and sweet:

------------------

Bold and sassy:

Oh that face just melts me!

Thanks for looking!

Proof!

2010-10-24T17:40:00.001-04:00

Supergirl now has bonafide proof that Fall exists, especially since Fall is something she has become very excited about lately.

The other night we were driving down the road. I couldn't tell you if we were coming or going, but Supergirl was quiet for a while, and then says to me, "Everybody knows about Fall." So I said, "you mean you see it on tv and in books?" And she says, "yes, but we don't have it."

So, our very good and wonderful and beautiful and kind friend Cindy made Supergirl a whole package of Fall! Complete with pictures, leaves,

and an informative letter explaining why the leaves turn!

She had a total blast going through the leaves.

Cindy, I hope this smile makes your effort worth it. I know it does for me!

We thank you for the proof that it's Fall somewhere! And we look forward to seeing you very soon!

Coon Hollo 2010

2010-10-19T21:40:00.001-04:00

This was so much fun. Like sooooo much fun. Coon Hollo stepped up their game this year! There were challenges and obstacles and even more to shop for and eat!

Here are just a few of the shots from the day. The album is here.

The corn maze had a card punch for a free drink. You had to find all 10 punches! It made the maze tons more adventurous.

These two have grown just a little. See last years' here.

There was a super fun obstacle course. Since we are all just the tiniest bit competitive, we spent a LOT of time here.

----

Snapshot

2010-10-11T15:08:00.001-04:00

I couldn't resist sharing these I took this morning.

WHA Speed Series - Show 2

2010-10-11T14:13:00.001-04:00

I don't have any actual pictures from the show, because [like a huge dummy] I forgot my camera!

So here are the results:

I tried to get the photos of her ON Joseph, but he would not cooperate at all! Here's some outtakes...

And just because I find it adorable...

Missouri Day 1 - Whew

2010-10-11T12:53:00.001-04:00

We had an uneventful flight to Missouri. That's a good thing!

We met up with the family and headed straight out to Roaring River for a picnic and some kickball.

It was a wonderful ending to a long day!

The Infamous Haircut

2010-09-26T19:26:00.001-04:00

Supergirl cut her own hair.

I'm still not over it.

She loves it, and I guess that's what matters.

Suuuuurprise!

2010-09-22T09:09:00.001-04:00

Bob's 75th Birthday party was a complete shock to him!

It was quite the event. Almost 200 guests, yummy cuban cuisine, and music to dance to!

Oh the anticipation!

He really was surprised. Look at that red face!

I know the party was a ton of work and Esther and Janelle should be very proud!!!!

Daddy's Birthday!

2010-09-08T21:20:00.001-04:00

Daddy turned 45 on August 28th!

We made him a cake....

We made him cards.....

And that was the extent of our craftiness. We purchased everything else.... :0)

Hope it was a good one dad!

Michigan Day 5 - Fun!!!

2010-09-08T21:17:00.001-04:00

We finished off our trip with a super cool kayaking trip!

She's tired from all the paddling I suppose.... :)

Michigan Day 5 - Ahhh....

2010-08-29T19:06:00.002-04:00

With 3 couples and one little spare, it was hard to decide what to do on Day 5.

Of course we spent as much time as possible sitting on the front porch. One of the many attractions there are the hummingbirds. I didn't get great pictures of them. Turns out they don't care for the camera. I had never seen so many in one area in all my life!

There were actually a lot more than what you see in the pictures... :)

So after a while, we convinced Al and Cindy to drive us around. We had to do some.... well, organizing. Six adults and one ginormous car-seat in the cab of a truck. Yea, it doesn't quite add up, but since we all like each other so much it was fine squeezing in; even if it meant little parts of the truck were sticking into little parts of bodies. LOL!

Anyway, the drive was so nice and relaxing! We got to see more of the area, and discuss our plans for next summer!

We stopped by this park. I wish I could remember the name!

I cannot wrap my mind around the fact that this place is completely covered in snow in the Winter!

And that the boardwalk gets marred by ice boots! Or whatever you call them. They are those shoes with the spikes in them that keep you stable on ice. You know what I mean....

Check out these handsome fellas!

And some cutie patootie couple shots.

We went on a little trail and just enjoyed the time.

We then stopped for lunch just before we all starved to death. You know, because we barely have eaten on this trip and all....

More to come!

Alphabet Crafts

2010-08-27T10:54:00.000-04:00

We both really enjoy making these!

I get the letter art ideas from Homeschool Creations. The letter making is super fun, and it's just adds a whole other layer of learning not only the letters, but works on her motor development, and her problems solving. I just cut the pieces out and she figures out where they need to go.

I love this wall, because we can change the function and focus so easily!

So Many Pieces

2010-08-27T10:39:00.000-04:00

So little patience...

I told you that we'd recently been given a huge stash of school supplies. Well, besides being truly grateful for the generosity, I was completely amazed that all the pieces were in the boxes. How in the world did they manage to do that? I thought loosing game pieces within the first 24 hours of ownership was customary.

Along with keeping a better watch on what I vacuum, here's my feeble attempt to keep all the game pieces together.

I traced the pieces, and Supergirl has been ~~threatened within an inch of her life~~, I mean gently guided, to match up the pieces to their shape before closing the box.

This, combined with my placement of the actual game 7 feet above her head, I hope will improve the chances of keeping the game together for at least the next 72 hours.

More Supplies!

2010-08-27T10:28:00.000-04:00

Why no, I don't happen to think there is such a thing as "Too Much School Supplies".

Amazon has some great deals, one of them being a 4 for 3 on certain books. As in, buy 3 get the 4th free. You can't pass up free! Anyway, I needed a few things for Geography, Reading, Music, Bible, and Art.

Why no, I can't help myself. There's just too much fun to be had in school!

The Read & See Bible is worth it's weight in gold. We read it, watch it, and dance to it. Supergirl devours it!

The Wee Sing music is wonderful. I incorporate songs into lessons (from Bible to Geography). I also play it in the background, instead of the tv.

Also in there are the My First Little House books. You really can't get any sweeter and simpler that Laura Ingalls Wilder. I figure dad will enjoy these reads too!

The tracing book was suggested by my aunt, The Artist. Supergirl has loved art since before she turned 2. Honestly, the kid can draw really good for her age.

I can't draw a stick man. I probably couldn't trace as good as her either! Luckily, I have an Artist friend who tutors small children, who happens to live right around the corner!!!

Feeling truly blessed today.

Classroom Organizing ... No really, it's fun!

2010-08-27T09:57:00.000-04:00

One of the advantages of having our child "later" in life, is that our friends children are older, and we get all the stuff they are done with!

One of the challenges of that, is storing it all.

So, I built some shelves to store all the new-to-us school supplies!

First, I measured the space. Then, I measured the space. Then, I went to Lowes, picked up a plank of white board, and had them cut it to my specs. $20

I found supports to match. This was the most expensive part of the budget. I figured I needed 8 supports at $7 a piece. $56

Lastly, I needed mounting hardware, sandpaper, and a finishing product. $21

I got it home, and got to work!

Ta da!

I have a matching set on the other side of the room, but I guess I forgot to take a picture!

I did mess up a bit. I failed to account for the brackets interacting with the hanging system on the wall. I had to make a run into the hardware store for some connectors and only used 4 of the 8 brackets. So I overspent $28. Which was a bummer, but I'll use them else ware.

I put these really high on the walls, for a couple of reasons, but namely to keep the games out of Supergirls reach. You see, there are approximately 1.27 million tiny pieces and parts inside all those boxes, and she thinks she should play with them all at once.

Ah. A place for everything and everything in it's place!

Twins?

2010-08-27T09:09:00.001-04:00

One of the many, fun, educational uses of sidewalk chalk!

Michigan Day 4 - The Way to My Heart.

2010-08-23T22:55:00.001-04:00

What a day! What a DAY! What more could a girl ask for? Fishing, shopping, eating, picture-taking, touring, front porch swingin'. Oh my! You can keep your day spa with the pedicure and massage.

I'll take this day, any day!

So we started the day with some fishing.

They were having fun. Really.

Wait. Len may have cracked a smile.

Wanna see a real big smile?

Check out this mac daddy!

Oh yea. That's right. Who's your mama?! Wahooooooo!

Ahem. Sorry about that.

Anyway. We ran into a little weather on the way in.

As if bringing home enough fish to feed an army wasn't enough, we went shopping!

Supergirl used her money to buy an instrument.

That was lovely. It may or may not have gotten misplaced shortly after we got back to the house.

Then, we went for a lovely drive.

I miss these two very much and look forward to Winter.

Talk about two chicks who can crack you up!

Ah. Now for the food!

Do you recognize that fish?

We had the absolute freshest fish possible, with green beans and corn straight from the garden.

From slaving over the hot stove....

to making sure the chairs and tv were functioning at full capacity....

to holding down the rugs...

to sitting pretty...

to properly documenting Cindy's style...

Everyone had an important job!

You wouldn't believe how delicious that meal was.

And just when you think you'd died and gone straight to heaven - on a full stomach - someone suggests a boat ride.

And you actually get a glimpse of heaven...

............................................................

The Osprey.

So the legend goes that Al had a pretty successful fishing charter business up there.

Considering that no fishing expedition that he took us on lasted more than 2 hours, with our limit, with some tremendous fish... I believe it. wink, wink.

Michigan Day 3 - Just call me Ima Slacker!

2010-08-18T22:30:00.001-04:00

Unfortunately, I don't have many pictures to share from this day. Cause Ima Slacker! And since I didn't take a bunch of pictures, I can't remember what we did!?

Actually, I think I wrote in my Day 2 post that Cindy took me shopping, but I think it was this day. But if that's true, then what did we do the day before? [banging head]

The old age is really setting in....

Well, in my defense (this time), Supergirl was sick this day. She started running a fever and she either just wanted to lay and watch cartoons, or just wanted to sit on my lap and rock.

Sometimes when she's sick (which is essentially never) and she sits on my lap so I can rock her; I am secretly glad that she doesn't feel good so that I can just hold her.

That's horrible isn't it!? I can't believe I told you that.

See that face? That means she's not feeling good. Poor baby!

Well, she did con us ALL into some hide and seek. That lasted for a couple of rounds and the adults sacked out on the porch.

The highlight of the day was the arrival of Len and Judy. They drove all the way up from Canada! Yes, I said "up". They actually live south of the Kendalls. Weird huh.

We chatted and caught up.

We also plotted and schemed on how we could make some good Florida money, off of good Michigan hay.

But that must have been too tiring, because there's everyone on the porch again!

That evening Cindy prepared an amazing dinner. It was so good, people who don't eat fish, ate fish!

So I slacked that day. We all did.

Frankly, the way I see it is, we deserved it.

Michigan Day 2 - Yum

2010-08-18T07:54:00.002-04:00

We kicked off day 2 with a morning trip to the farmers market in Port Austin. One word: yum. I haven't decided whether or not it was a good thing, or a bad thing, that I could not take a suitcases full of fresh fruit, veggies, homemade treats, and arts and crafts on the plane.

Then, oh then we went fishing! Did I already use the word yum in this post?

Al has caught approximately 4 million Walleye in Lake Huron, but it was a first for us. We were out of the house and back within 2 hours with our limit.

Yes, we went with the Master.

After that, Cindy took me shopping and touring, and the guys and M stayed home. I guess I didn't take any more pictures that day! When Supergirl isn't around, I suppose I'm a little uninspired?!

Then we had scrumptious Walleye for dinner! Doesn't get any fresher than that!

Michigan Day 1 - The start of perfection.

2010-08-13T22:28:00.001-04:00

The flight to Michigan was the first for Supergirl! She was super excited and ready to go.

Our first view of Lake Huron!

Then after many hours of travel, we made it to the Kendalls' lovely home. That front porch is heaven, and the lush lawn is a dream.

Lovely and peaceful and perfect and manicured. Better than a park!

And soooo clean. And perfectly decorated!

They even had a perfect garden!

Oh, sorry can you sense my envy?

Although, I am highly motivated to clean, plant, and prune around my own place.

Just as soon as it cools off below 90 degrees. I'll be right on it.

Anyway! Remember the Giffons?

Here is Micah pointing (perfectly) - we think at a frog or grasshopper. And there is Jessie too! Doing what she does best. Running.

And wait until I tell you about all the food! Here's Al grilling some steaks. My stomach misses the Kendall's dearly, and I miss my waistline dearly.

Then they took us to Al's parents house, in Port Austin, to watch the sunset on Lake Huron!

Oh. my. goodness.

But before it got too late, they took us for ice cream. Evidently, it's mandatory to have ice cream in Grindstone City at night.

I can't wait to show you more pictures of this trip. It was truly, truly, truly perfect.

Thanks for looking!

Today in School: Bugs

2010-08-03T16:36:00.001-04:00

Since our letter of the week is "I", we are also studying insects! We read I Love Bugs and set out to photograph the bugs, just like in the book.

We both had our cameras trying to get the bug shots!

Cicada's molted exoskeleton:

Grasshopper (somewhere in there):

Banana Spider:

Dragon Fly:

Ants:

Then we got completely sidetracked by a call from Daddy:

Then I got completely sidetracked with this cutie:

Then we both got completely sidetracked with the baby calf:

But that's the fun of homeschool... We are allowed to get sidetracked!

Well, sometimes.

Whatcha doin?

2010-08-03T00:10:00.001-04:00

I already posted this one, but it just makes me smile....

She sleeps.

2010-07-31T22:58:00.001-04:00

Eventually, at some point in the night (or late night), Supergirl stops moving. She stops jumping, yelling, singing, dancing, crying, whining, begging, yelling and jumping. And yelling. And running.

This is what it looks like.

And the house is suddenly quiet, except for the sound of the crickets chirping, and the occasional dog howling.

ahhhh.

Friendship Bracelets

2010-07-31T16:32:00.001-04:00

So everything comes back in style, and friendship bracelets are no exception.... So Miss Heather came over last night to give us lessons.

I think I enjoyed picking out the beautiful thread more than I did actually making them....

Or maybe I enjoyed taking pictures more than I did making them.

Razor thin DOF and a touch of bokeh! Lov-e-ly.

Nah. None of the above....

I enjoyed putting it on this wrist particular most of all.

Supergirl and Mommy: BFF's!

My girl.

2010-07-30T22:07:00.001-04:00

Dance school starts in a month. Does she look like a ballerina or jazz dancer to you?

Today in the Classroom

2010-07-29T13:23:00.001-04:00

First, here are the riches from our library trip yesterday.

I had to get 4 weeks worth of books since we'll be in Michigan on my next Wednesday (library day) off.

It took three of us to carry them out.

We've gone through about 12 since last night.

The reason we go to the library on Wednesday, is because of this:

and this:

It's from the Farmers Market conveniently located right beside the library!

I also went to Michael's to (hopefully) finish up supplying the classroom.

This is a piece I've always wanted and it was on sale for 40% off!!! I was so excited.

I just sit and stare at it because I love it so much.

TMI....Moving on......

My latest method for organizing and teaching and storing and planning is this....

Everything for the next 40 weeks in safely placed in a folder.

The wonderful thing about this system, is that I when I come across a great idea or activity, I can print it or jot it down on scrap paper, and place the notes directly into the folder.

The folders are labeled by week and not date because a "week" doesn't necessarily correspond with the calendar week.

Once we start a new week, I organize the items from the Weekly folder into the Daily folders. That way I make sure each day gets a similar amount of work.

Then, each day I sort out the work into these 10 cubbies. She empties the cubbies one by one, so she sees her progress as well as what's left to be done!

The downside is that she sees her crafts and games in there and wants to skip ahead :)

When she's done with the work, I place it all into a single page protector. At the end of the week, the full page protector goes into a binder.

So that's it!

It's working extremely well ....for now.

Cinderella and Prince Charming

2010-07-28T08:08:00.001-04:00

Sometimes I am wary of the whole fairy tale princess thing with the knight in shining amour always saving the day, handsome prince falling in love with her, etc. etc.

I don't want to disillusion the child too much!

But then.

I see this.

And I remember, the only prince a 4 year old little girl knows is her daddy.

That's a tale I believe in!

Sugar Cookie

2010-07-27T20:44:00.001-04:00

1st Solo

2010-07-25T12:07:00.001-04:00

Supergirl had her first solo trail ride! Words can't say how proud I am of her! We were out for 2.5 hours and she was such a trooper!

Did I mention the heat index was over 100!

This horse is my hero! He keeps us safe.

We going to be ready for some camping trips this fall!

Fischer Wedding - Take II

2010-07-23T10:44:00.001-04:00

After some wonderfully constructive feedback, I decided to redo the photo share.

For better? Or worse?

Fisher Wedding

2010-07-22T00:38:00.001-04:00

**** Fischer Wedding - Take II ****

I had the extreme honor to photograph Kamie and Caleb's wedding last month. It was a beautiful day, and a beautiful ceremony; with of course, a beautiful bride and a handsome groom.

Here's a sample of my favorites from the day!

The brides mom (who incidentally was my best friend in high school). When I think about the time we spent together... well, it makes me want to lock up my daughter until she's 45. ;)

The bride and her dad. They were so, so sweet together.

Mr. and Mrs. Fisher!

Hi ya.

2010-07-20T00:13:00.001-04:00

Classroom Update

2010-07-19T08:15:00.001-04:00

I have been completely overwhelmed by trying to wrap my mind around Lesson Plan details, organization, daily activities, organization.....

I found a great little letter/bible curriculum based on one of my favorite sites. I created this board, basically copying what the author did.

I thank God that so many people are willing to share what they do and have done in their homeschool. It has really given me a place to start.

I also created a Daily Planner for Supergirl. Since we confirmed our Michigan trip, the very first thing I hear EVERY morning is, "Is today that we're going to Al and Cindy's?".

Now when she asks when something is happening, we refer to her calendar. Since she can't actually read notes on the calendar we color code and create symbols.

So far I only plan about 1 day in advance, as I learn more and more. I'm hoping in a few months (hopefully shorter!) I'll have a system down, and spend less time planning, and more time doing!

4th of July 2010

2010-07-06T08:44:00.001-04:00

I truly can't believe a whole year has passed between 4th of July's.

We were fortunate enough to have been invited to Anna Maria Island again!

I go just for the food. I mean the company. I mean the food.

Oh, the yummy food!!!

This year was nice because Supergirl had a buddy to play with. Luckily, Miss K was outgoing enough to break Supergirls tough (read: shy) shell.

Then of course there's Uncle Jimmy.

I'm no expert, but I think these girls have him a little wrapped.

We had to leave early because Rob had to work early the next day. Our plan was to start driving home and catch the fireworks as we drove down the road. We ended up pulling into a Target parking lot, jumping on the truck toolbox, and were literally surrounded by fireworks!

The perfect end to a perfect day!

Father’s Day

2010-07-03T09:18:00.001-04:00

On Father’s Day we made a surprise visit to Tampa.

We woke up Bob from a nap and (I think) shocked him a little.

We went for a walk around the block. This provides something that is very exciting for me.

Sidewalks.

We ain’t got no sidewalks in the country.

I’m easily entertained.

…..

Then! Oh then, we went here to celebrate.

My stomach reminisces often.

I was just... there.

2010-06-23T09:53:00.001-04:00

Supergirl and I went up to the stables yesterday evening to hang out with Grandma. B.B. (aka Barn Becky), and Ali.

We brought watermelon juice (and maybe a teeny weeny bit of rum)with us. They brought marshmallows. And we built a fire.

I didn't take my camera. And while I sat in my comfortable chair by the too warm fire sipping my drink and watching the girls merrily running, playing in the water, and roasting, the horses eating peacefully, the dogs enthusiastically wrestling, all with the beautiful backdrop of the sun setting above treetops during the golden hour; I did long for my camera.

But the funniest thing happened.

I had a conversation.

I talked about movies and books and family and life.

I was actually living the moment, not worrying about capturing it for future reference.

I need to remember that I don't always need to have the photographic proof for years to come that we did actually enjoy life, or that Supergirl had a wonderful childhood, or that I was a good mom.

In a year from now, heck in a month from now, I probably won't remember the details of last evening, but just relaxing, enjoying, and being in the moment surely helps me be a better mom, wife, and friend.

I think I'll do that more often....

Sweet Snack - Update

2010-06-18T11:24:00.001-04:00

I know you have been on the edge of your seat since last July regarding THIS post. I know a day hasn't passed where you haven't wondered whether or not Supergirl still eats horse feed.

I thought I'd put you out of your misery. Or into it...? I'll let you decide.

Anyway, remember I said, she would stop if I just didn't pester her about it.

Well, I was wrong.

She hasn't changed a bit in one year.

Stubborn with a capital S.

...don't know who she gets is from..........

Supergirl gets training wheels.

2010-06-17T21:27:00.001-04:00

Luckily she was there to show her dad how they need to be put on!

My girl.

2010-06-17T20:23:00.001-04:00

Nutrition... or lack thereof.

2010-06-13T16:08:00.001-04:00

My current quest in life is to get some sort of nutrition into Supergirl in the morning. All she wants is chocolate milk.

I know, I know....

Anyway my latest idea is smoothies. I can hide things like flax and acidophillous in it. I really thought this one would work.

I've tried berries (and threats) and bananas (and promises) and even chocolate! But she just can't seem to get it down. She doesn't refuse it, but she just can't get it down.

Today's idea was to put it in a cute little cuban/espresso coffee cup. Even with a platter.

It was work on my part....

but she drank it. All 3 sips of it, and no more.

Back to the drawing board.

B.B.'s Grandbabies

2010-06-13T15:30:00.001-04:00

These cuties visited us yesterday!

3 little girls = pure chaos.

It was nice when the little one cuddled in my arms. Reminded me what that felt like!

She's a little crazy.

2010-06-12T09:53:00.001-04:00

Supergirl found her Halloween costume from when she was 5 months old.

She was hilarious!

Is this normal?

I hope that she's anything BUT normal!

Blueberry Eatin'

2010-06-11T14:16:00.001-04:00

The aftermath of Blueberry Pickin'.

Yum.

I'm going to bake that again right now!

Blueberry Pickin'

2010-06-08T16:39:00.001-04:00

A couple of weeks ago, while the Rudd's were visiting, we went blueberry pickin'!

As you will see by all the red faces, it was hot. Florida sandhills hot.

But it was fun!

Before we went we had to read about it!

Then the girls made a new friend.

Then we went home and made this blueberry cobbler. It was delightful!

Just Play.

2010-05-27T15:01:00.001-04:00

Blue Springs

2010-05-27T14:47:00.001-04:00

We got up early Monday morning and went to Blue Springs. One of the great things about this place is that it's only 12 miles from the house!

Supergirl Turned 4

2010-05-27T00:27:00.001-04:00

I know I told you that she had her fourth birthday party. But, did I tell you she actually turned 4?

As in four years old. As in, she's no longer 3. She's no longer a toddler. She's no longer a baby.

She is growing up right before my very eyes. I feel like if I blink I will miss another huge chunk of her life.

Seriously though. I just gave birth to her last week. I know. I remember all 8.4 lbs of her.

I was there.

And it was last week.

From Scrapbook Pages

So anyway, can someone please explain to me how this happened?

***For the record, I am exceedingly glad that she is potty trained and can buckle her own carseat. Exceedingly.

3 outa 4 ain't bad...

2010-05-25T22:28:00.001-04:00

They are missin' their daddy.... Don't know know why he didn't come up for a week long trip with all of us... ;)

Supergirls' 4th Birthday!

2010-05-24T00:10:00.001-04:00

Warning... Lot's of photos!

We had an amazing day. Every single kid was awesome, and fun, and so well behaved. And oh so exhausted!

The End.

Homeschool Classroom IV

2010-05-20T21:56:00.001-04:00

I'm still waiting for a few accessories, but I couldn't resist sharing any longer.

I am so happy with it. Of course I haven't put it into operation, but it sure looks like it'll work!

Don't laugh at my graphic illustrations!

I won't name names, but someone in my life confided in me that he thought I wouldn't have it done for Supergirl's birthday.

HA! I am woman hear me roar!

Faces and Flowers Competition

2010-05-18T15:35:00.005-04:00

It's been a while since I've entered a photo into a competition, but I knew this one would be perfect for the theme!

Homeschool Classroom - III

2010-05-17T11:00:00.001-04:00

Alternate title: "I am woman, hear me roar."

Ha! You see this instruction manual?

It says it's a two man job. Operative word "man". Ha! I did it all by myself [except for the part where mom had to help me pick it up and stand it on end. Minor detail.]

Doesn't this look like fun?

I have fallen in love with Ikea. It's affordable, but you have to put everything together. I think the people who designed this furniture are brilliant! Talk about a puzzle!

Warning: They don't give you any extra pegs or screws or nuts. If you break one [like by hitting it too hard with the mallet] or if the nuts' threads are messed up, you are SOL.

I am madly in love with this shelf. 36 cubbies. Thirty six. 36! The amount of storage is phenomenal.

Yea, I'm easily excitable.

Feast your eyes on 36 square feet of organizing bliss:

So as much as I'd like to take all the credit here, I must give credit where credit is due:

Grandma and Grandpa T. for furnishing the furniture. For without furniture, this would be a very weird post.

Mom for attacking my house, which looked like a garbage dumpster threw up in it. You see:

She also kept Supergirl occupied so I could work.

And to my hubby. He actually cleaned the roof with a scrub pad. A small, hand sized scrub pad. On the roof. It was 90 degrees yesterday.

I can't wait to show you the finished product. Hopefully I'll have it done by the end of the week.

Supergirl is already asking me to play school with her. She loves browsing all the books that are organized and displayed on the shelves.

Homeschool Classroom - II

2010-05-16T09:08:00.001-04:00

Despite the look of the following photos, painting with your (soon to be) 4 year old is not fun.

Explicit warning: Do NOT try this at home. It is dangerous to your mental stability.

Meaning you will have none left, if your kid tries to paint like the "puppies do on tv". Whatever that means, it wasn't a realistic depiction of how to properly paint anything.

There was screaming.

And paint on the carpet. [There just isn't enough drop-clothes in the world to protect against Supergirl.]

And later I'll show you what I had to do about the paint in her hair.

It. was. not. pretty.

The following smiling is not cheerful, childlike joy smiles.

It's a menacing I'll get you my pretty type of ominous laughter.

There was screaming.

Homeschool Classroom Remodel - I

2010-05-14T21:24:00.001-04:00

So I am going to part-time status at work. I am so excited you can't even imagine. Like take the happiest you've ever been, and multiply it by 100, and you'll be close.

One of the (many, many) things I look forward to doing, is starting Supergirls' homeschool activities. I always knew that when it was time, I'd make sure she had her own space.

So basically, we no longer have a guest room/storage room. We are currently trying to figure out where to put a whole lot of stuff from that room; but at the same time, we will now have a place for a whole lot of stuff, from every other room.

We will have a sofa bed in there so YOU can still come and visit!

please.

So out goes my lovely lavender guest room....

I promise it was lovely before we took out the furniture, and the fancy Pottery Barn duvet that gave the lavender room meaning and purpose.

and this handy closet storage area...

which was actually filled to the gills with crap, I mean stuff.

UGH....Trying to get these shots soooo makes me want a wide(r) angle lens or a new camera........ Oh sorry, I was dreaming.

Focus Angela. Focus.

Here's the bed all loaded up, heading to the dump...

If you're wondering why we don't give it to someone, I'll show you why...

Can you read the date?

It says "11/21/88".

That would be 22 years.

Gross huh.

Next up: Painting! I just can't wait. (read with a droning voice and intense sarcasm)

He didn't think it would happen.

2010-05-10T21:29:00.002-04:00

Several years ago, when Supergirl was still just a superbaby, our niece visited us. During that visit, our neice got a brand new Disney princess dress-up outfit. She sashayed around in that outfit for hours! She was adorable!! However, once Rob saw her in it, he said his daughter (rough and tough as she would surely be) wouldn't wear that.

So I thought I'd share this with ya.... hehehe

and this... hahahaha

and this ... be still my heart.

And then she was done. I know this because she said, "We're all done here."

I laugh now, but what am I going to do when she's 14??

Caleb & Kamie

2010-05-08T19:27:00.001-04:00

I had the wonderful pleasure of doing engagement photos for Caleb and Kamie. Last time I saw Kamie she was an infant! My how time goes by...

She's turned into a beautiful young woman, and has seems to have great taste; Caleb is the nicest and most polite guy ever!

Here's my very first crack at photographing people outside my family!

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Caleb & Kamie

2010-05-08T19:17:00.001-04:00

My date night!

2010-05-03T10:39:00.001-04:00

Saturday night Supergirl and I decided to take a spontaneous trip down to Medieval Times in Kissimmee. We are just a sucker for anything with horses!

Their scene is, well, medieval and Supergirl was a little trepidacious.

Then the show started suddenly and it was super loud. She had her hands over her ears and wouldn't get off my lap for the first several minutes!

But she settled in, and really started getting into it!

She even cheered for our team!

During the crazy fight scenes and jousting, they lowered screens because things were flying! They were really going at it.

The food was great. No silverware!

After the show we walked around the village.

Supergirl acting out after watching the fight scene.

Princess Supergirl:

Wildflowers 2010

2010-04-30T21:00:00.001-04:00

Had to make a pit stop on the side of the road for these beauties!

You see what I have to put up with?!

2010-04-28T22:13:00.001-04:00

ugh... divas...!

4 Wheelin' - Supergirl Style

2010-04-27T21:12:00.001-04:00

I'm scared. I'm very, very scared.

She, however, is not.

Oh my.

There were shots...

2010-04-27T20:04:00.001-04:00

Hunting is pretty important to dad, and sometimes we humor him.

On this day we awoke before the sun. We wiped the sleep from our eyes, and put on some warm clothes.

With blankets and books and kids in arms, we hiked deep into the forest.

Where we patiently waited and watched for the elusive Osceola Turkey.

Well, maybe not so patiently...

Brandy read. Emily colored. I took pictures.

Unfortunately for dad, we are not so easily entertained.

After patiently waiting and watching, Dad said we were done. There were no turkeys to be seen or heard on this day.

But never fail! There were still shots to be taken!

I will save the day.

When your daughter comes running at you, with her hands behind her back, telling you to close your eyes.... You can never know what will happen next.

Thankfully it was flowers.

It could have been this:

Unlike dad, I was extremely happy with the outcome of the days shots.

Wet toes and all.

By Special Request... ;)

2010-04-26T23:00:00.001-04:00

It's beautiful, but a little scary...

Easter 2010

2010-04-26T16:44:00.001-04:00

Supergirl excitedly checked out what the Easter Bunny left for her!

---- Off to the Tate's for celebrating.

Just doing a test

2010-04-22T17:20:00.001-04:00

Making Easter Eggs

2010-04-22T13:28:00.002-04:00

I know that Easter was a few weeks ago now, but I'm behind. I stayed up until 2 am to get these done.

Just for you.

Good morning sunshine!

Baby "A"

2010-04-22T13:11:00.001-04:00

You can't tell from these sweet pictures, but this miracle baby is one heck of a fighter!