Happy New Year!!

2009 needs a theme...

Here are some from the last few years:

Don't be a bore in 2004
Get alive in 2005
It is gonna be great in 2008

Any brilliant suggestions for 2009?

Snow in photos...

Before Arctic Blast 2008:



After 3 days of Arctic Blast 2008:

My car sat in this spot for another two days before we started digging. My lovely friend Robyn brought over a metal shovel and her husband to help out. I provided a plastic dustpan and a spatula that doubled as an ice scraper. (Thanks Max and Gina for gifting me a real ice scraper!)


The snowman my neighbor built in my backyard. (It was the first one she built ever! So cute.)


The hole left by my car...





I spent all day in my car yesterday running errands. It is fantastic to return to mobile freedom!

Anakin's Star Fighter

Here are a couple of pictures of Taylor and his new Lego Star Wars Anakin Star Fighter. These pictures were taken with Taylor's very own digital camera.




Taylor says, "This is my new space ship. I want you to see it. Max, Gina, Max, Morgan, and Isabel gave it to me. I took these pictures with my new camera."

Super fun christmas!!!

As always I had a super fun time up in Portland, playing games and having fun. When we went to play basketball, Morgan wasn't pleased with having to play defense against me, I was so sweaty. I said "You should see me after the gym!" Here are a couple of pictures of my shirt after I got home from the gym yesterday.

Quality Christmas Time!

Jason on a break from touring with the Insane Clown Posse




Cam at the Eiffel Tower













Jen as Ladi Di

Kristy ... playing the snowbunny on the beach

Just wanted everyone to see I had fun this weekend. Thanks Isabel for the use of your Stylin' Studio!

New Word

edacious; adj, of eating, gluttonous..........

frangible........ what do you think????????

Is it Just Me?

or is anybody else absolutely enthralled by the FreeCreditReport.com commercials? That lead singer, who is actually french canadian and speaks little or no english and is actually lip synching the song, is adorable. I get the biggest kick out of those commercials. Actually have them all memorized and find myself humming them ("Oh I married my dream girl, I married my dream girl") while at work. Sick, eh?

More from Gold Beach

No, that's not snow. It's sea foam. We've had a wonderful day. Not a bad way to spend an anniversary. (Number 15 BTW) We've watched squalls come through. Yesterday we had thunder. This morning: hail. We have a spa tub on the deck. We've been reading and browsing the local used bookstore. Taking naps, and tonight we're going out for a seafood dinner. Mmmm-mmm I can hardly wait. Anybody interested in some crab this weekend? xoxo

Ho Ho Humbug

So --- Thursday nite I go to Bend with a couple of lady friends for dinner and a play at 2nd St Theatre. We went to Typhoon and had an incredible meal .... winter curry with rice, crispy chicken with fried Thai basil and tofu pad thai. The play was fun and we got back late, about 11:00.

Walked into my living room and my freakin' 8 foot Noble Fir had fallen over. It must have bounced off the piano, broke some beautiful depression glass candleabra that Rob had given me, knocked pictures off the wall and then crashed down onto the floor, breaking about 1/2 of my ornaments in the process.

It was awful. It literally took me all day friday to clean up the mess, reseat and re-decorate the tree. Talk about a downer. You have no idea how close that tree came to ending up in the front yard. Ho Ho Humbug

sorry about the color

OOPPPSSSS got the wrong color on this one

No New Word today

Hello all from Gold Beach. Since the weather put a gitch in plans to go to Spokane, we decided to come to the coast, the weather here is windy and rainy, but not frightful as in the Portland area. My brother reports 3 feet of snow in his yard, so it is a good thing we are where we are. We hope you are all well, and survive the forced hibernation. Snow is fun for the first day or so,but after that is becomes a pain, in the neck or where ever.

This is what it looks like from my floor at the hosp... Dorothy, I dont think we are in Oregon anymore...

Snowed In Part II

Well, it snowed about 8 to 10 inches yesterday.  Virtually all day yesterday.  It was truly amazing and not something I've seen like this since we've lived in Portland.  By end the end of the day travel became much more difficult.  Then during the night we got some freezing rain to cover the the snow - so this morning there was about an 1/8th of an inch of ice covering all the snow.  So everywhere you walk is crunchy and slick - and really pretty cool if you don't have to drive anywhere.  I've added some pictures that I thought might demonstrate the effect.

Our friends who lost their daughter earlier in the year decided to take the rest of their family to Florida - Disney World - so they wouldn't endure a Christmas at home - and have now been stuck in a hotel by the airport - for a second day waiting for their flight that may or may not come tomorrow.  We are sad for them ....and praying they can get where they want to be.

We hunkered down on our second Sunday in row without church - bummer - and watched the Nativity movie - and it was really pleasant.  We've got our beach-weekend friends (Sackleys, Holts, Kidmans and Potts) coming over for dinner tonight - assuming everyone can bust out of their driveways and make it happen.

Hope you are all ready for Christmas.

snow yesterday

I haven't posted pictures on this blog yet, we'll see how this works, but when I went outside yesterday morning, I was struck by how the snow had piled up on tree branches. It is as if the snow fell straight down, and there must not have been any wind to blow it off the branches, because even the smaller branches had a thick layer, couple of inches or so. Try clicking on the picture twice to see it bigger, it may show up better in the bigger picture.

After slightly being held hostage by the stinking snow... I decided to be a warrior and drive my new car to work today. The roads were a little dodgy but I just drove slow. If I dont learn how to drive in the snow now... when will I?

I need to buy an ice scraper!

If anyone is keeping track... I am halfway through the 3rd season of Six Feet Under... And guess who I found? Dwight. He plays the funeral director apprentice that comes to live in the Fisher house. Funny to see him as anything other than a beet loving Schrute.

Work is quiet and they are sending me home early! Hooray! I think I will run out and make snow angels!

Word for the Day

Yesterdays word,, DIURNAL; of the daytime;having a daily cycle.

Cam your definition was the best, (diurnal or dicaskl )
New Word: EDACIOUS (E-DA-SHUS)

Snow Day!!

So here in Southern Oregon, we finally got a snow day. We had a couple of delayed starts early in the week. We have a phone tree, when the principal calls me, I call 6 other people. I talked to many of my coworker's spouses at 5:45 am. I didn't feel bad at all waking people up with such joyous news. Due to the unpredictable weather I did all my holiday stuff yesterday. The only misgivings I have about missing school today is that it was Pajama Day! My favorite day of the year. We all wear our jammies and snuggle in with good books and blankets. On the upside...it's 7:30 and I'm still in my jammies...sitting in the chair with Leno replaying on the DVR. I'm happy to have a day to get ready for our holiday travels.

We leave tomorrow and will be somewhat out of communication as the internet connection is not as easy to get to in Spokane. Ben may still be able to do a word of the day, but be prepared for a break from that.

Enjoy your holiday preparations and we'll see you all next weekend! xoxo

Daily Word

Congrats to Cam, he was the one who nearly nailed it.Definition: a description of the world; the science of the constitution of the universe.

New Word: DIURNAL

JENN maybe you could put your artistic skills to work and design a crown to be awarded to the one who collectively, is the one who has the most correct usage of the words say over the next week.

Thanksgiving Weekend Pictures

For anyone who would like to see the pictures from our Thanksgiving weekend trip, you can check them out on my blog. Just click on my name in the "other blogs" section on the side of this page.

Williams Chistmas Card II

I opened your card today, and it was great like always. However, in the list of faces Isabel wore this year, it didn't explain her foot high hairdo from the picture. Was that a funny story? Super cute pictures! Was that Max in the Jayhawk uniform with Morgan?

End of Term

Well, I made it through another term. It is such a relief to be on winter break and to be done with finals. I was kind of sweating passing my math class, but I got my grades the other day and I passed. Only two more terms to go!!! Wish me luck.

Alright... So I was a little whiney in my last post.

To keep the balance, I will now post positive things about today...

I got all my insurance paperwork figured out for my car. Now, weather permitting I will be cruising about, blaring my iPod and seeing the world.

My free will astrology for this week:
At Salon.com's forum "Table Talk," participants were urged to come up with a six-word sentence that captured the essence of their lives. One person wrote, "Broke. Payday. Broke. Payday. Broke. Payday." Another said, "Oh, no, not again. Again. Again." But the testimony I really wanted to call your attention to is this: "I never learned how to swashbuckle." Why is this pertinent for you? Because I believe that if you have a similar regret -- that you've never mastered the art of swashbuckling -- you will have an excellent chance to fix that problem in the coming months. In fact, I'm tempted to name 2009 as the Year of the Swashbuckle for you Libras. If I could give you a symbolic holiday gift to get you started, it might be a superhero's costume created by a top fashion designer. Happy Holy Daze!

I decided to look up swashbuckling... so I knew what to plan for. Here is what Wikipedia had to say...

Swashbuckler, a person or character:
The word "swashbuckler", in the modern sense, generally describes a fearless romantic archetype, a fictitious, adventurous, sword-wielding, male character who seeks to win the heart of a beautiful lady while rescuing society from the clutches of a dastardly villain. A classic swashbuckler exhibits exceptional courage and swordfighting skill, a strong sense of honor and justice, a chivalric romantic sense, and the capacity for wit, style, and resourcefulness under pressure. Such characters include The Three Musketeers, The Scarlet Pimpernel, Robin Hood, Zorro. There have also been a few female swashbucklers, such as Maureen O'Hara in the film Against All Flags and Tessie Santiago in the short-lived Queen of Swords television series.


So it looks like I am going to learn how to sword fight and it will help me win the heart of a handsome man.

WORD OF THE DAY

I like the idea of giving the word without the meaning. So here is the word for today.

COSMOGRAPHY

I will post the answer tomorrow.......

NO FAIR!

So you may have noticed my previous post about purchasing a new vehicle.

I anticipated this would be a life changing event. I was excited about the fact that I could zoom all over Portland without a care in the world about other peoples time frames or schedules. I also looked forward to the idea that if there was a smelly person sitting next to me, it was because I invited them to.

STINKY STUPID SNOW!!!! (Sorry Max 3, I am sure you take that as blasphemy.) My brand new shiney ya-ya Yaris is sitting in the exact spot I left it Sunday night. Of all the (arctic)blasted luck.

I have taken Tri-Met around all week and for the most part it has been about as pleasant as usual. Today, however, I wanted to scream. I almost gave up and drove in to work anyway. I am nervous about what the roads will be like at 9pm and am still working on insurance paper work, so I waited it out. And by waited it out... I mean I waited, IN A SKIRT, for almost an hour for my bus. THREE of them should have passed by in that time. I was an hour late to work. And smelly people, who were not invited by me sat next to me.

Needless to say I am very excited for the future and wishing for a thaw!!!

(Not to spoil anyones three week winter break plans, I am sure my wish will not be answered anyway. Meanwhile I will just enjoy tomorrow, trapped in my apt, making Christmas Goodies and watching more Six Feet Under)

Word of the Day

In case nobody read Kristy's comment on the last word of the day, I wanted to post it because I think she had a pretty good idea for Ben's word of the day.

She said, "I have an idea for the word of the day. Ben posts the word without the definition and then we use it in a sentence. NO Cheating. You can't look the word up, and the next day Ben posts the definition. Let me know what you think."

This sounds like it would make for some really good laughs.

A family of cheaters

Maybe you remember my mom getting upset about us kids kicking her bum at the word scramble in Sunriver and of course we were cheating.

Well last night Taylor set up his Star Wars battle game (which is actually pretty fun) and wanted me to play. You start off with 5 cards and when you land on a battle you throw down a card and the person with the higher card wins. Well Taylor had set the game up and had even laid out 5 cards for me to use. I looked at my five cards and imagine that, I had ones and twos. Hmm... In his had he had all high cards. Being as competitive as I am I mixed up my cards and grabbed 5 new ones, after having a good laugh.

I ended up winning the game. The moral of the story it doesn't pay to cheat, unless of course it really is upsetting to your mother because she can't seem to score as high as you and your cousins on Text Twist.

Merry Christmas...Ho Ho Ho

Channeling my father's spirit I played the role as Santa's Helper at two different Christmas parties this last weekend. Gina's mom made me the suit - and Gina has a Mrs. Claus outfit - and it is very nice. Much better than the cheap rental. Anyway, these were my first official gigs - and one was Gina's work party - where the night before she informed me that several of the kids were Jewish - and 3 of the kids had a father dying of a brain tumor! Wow! Talk about a tough assignment for my first at-bat. Anyway - it all went okay - with the little Jewish kids reminding me that they were Jewish as they took the present and I wished them Happy Hanukkah all the same. Walking to and from the party I passed several restaurants - and my favorite reaction was from the 20 something waiter at the Chinese place - who almost dropped his tray - and jumped up and down pointing and yelling so the whole place had to stand up and see what the commotion was. Santa is such a celebrity.

Isabel came home from the party and said "I've got a couple of pointers for you." One of the them was - and I quote - "Don't make everyone sit on your lap - it makes some kids uncomfortable and you come off kind of creepy!" Only your own daughter could deliver that kind of honest message.

The second night was our Ward Christmas Party. It went well - lots more kids - and it was fun to see the excitement and wonder in the little children. I was struck by how often the kids from the most humble circumstances seemed to want the most humble gifts - a jump rope - a girl doll - etc. As opposed to the more well off kids who wanted - laptops, Wii, cell-phones, Ipods, etc. Just an interesting observation.

In the end - it's hard not feel a little of the Christmas Spirit - when you are getting the chance to play the physical embodiment of the second banana. (Since playing the first banana would be inappropriately sacrilegious). Hope that you all can find some Christmas Spirit out there and give even a little of it to someone else.

WORD FOR THE DAY

CASUISTRY [ kas-u-is-tri ] n. a method of solving conflicts of obligation by applying general principles of ethics and moral theology to particular case of human conduct; subtle but false reasoning, esp about moral issues.

Williams Christmass Card

We got the awaited Williams Christmas Card today. Every year we are impressed with the their Christmas Card. This year was the many faces of each. Cam was reading it while we were cleaning up dinner. My favorite was Gina's face trying to figure out what to have for dinner. I must have just related to that because I had just spent the last 20 minutes trying to decide what to make for dinner and the looking in a mirror. I may still be in my 20's but man I feel old and I look in the mirror and think what happened to that face, you know the one that looked so young, vibrant and awake.

Thanks for the Christmas Card we love it.

WORD FOR THE DAY

BOURGEOIS [boorh' wa] n one of the bourgeoisie [boorzh' waze or -ze], the social class between the very wealthy and the middle class.

What to Get the Grandparents

Figured it was safe to discuss it here as they haven't blogged on yet.

Any ideas? Suggestions? What are y'all getting them?

I was wondering if they had the HBO miniseries John Adams. Think they'd like that?

WORD FOR THE DAY

AXIOM: A self evident truth; an estsblished principle in an art or science.

Walking in a Winter Wonderland

Hey Family - I don't know what it is doing where you are, but we've got lots of snow. Which as you can imagine makes everyone very excited - especially our junior meteorologist who has been actively forecasting the event for almost a week! The snow struck this morning just in time for the powers at be to cancel church - a double bonus! So people have played - been lazy - taken naps - drank hot chocolate - and felt like Christmas. If it stays as cold as they say - and the snow stays around - and things become motionless (including Max 3 being unable to drive his car.....) - I suspect people will get a little cabin fever. But for now - we are enjoying the rare joy of a Portland snow day!

Hope you are all bundled up and warm. Love, Max.

spent weekend with grandparents at the coast

Grandpa and Grandma came over here to eat lunch with Kristy and I Thursday (Kristy couldn't make it) and suggested I come visit them this weekend. I didn't have anything else going on so I woke up early and drove over Friday morning. Friday had a very high tide (10.5 ft) so we went out to watch that then had a late lunch at a really good place in old town (Bridgewater). Then while Grandma went grocery shopping Grandpa and I went minature golfing (outside in the rain, Grandpa beat me). Then we played pool at the RV park rec hall (I won this one, but a close game). Then when Grandma got back, they taught me how to play pinocle, which I really liked and learned enough that I won at least my fair share of games. We also watched several movies. Saturday we went to the Florence ward's brunch Christmas party which was Who themed and very cute (the doctor seuss characters, not the seventies rock band). Then some more pinocle and some dominos, and it was time for me to come home. I had a good time with them and will probably go see them again in a couple weeks after they have moved up to Newport.

I have an official very important announcement.

I bought a brand new car today!!! It is a 2009 Toyota Yaris. Be prepared, I will now come visit you.

HELLLLLLOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!

Is there anyone out there???????????? Lots of posts to begin with, but not so many now. Whats up?????? Life too busy? School work? Work? Social calendars to full? What?????????
Anyway, looking forward to seeing you all in a couple of weeks, hope all is well. I'm thinking that we could maybe play charades again like we did in Florence that veterans day weekend. Or not, but some type of game where everyone participates. Just a thought. Susan,if you read this, would you please consider joining us?? You all have a good weekend.

I've Been Phone Pranked

I was driving home from work tonight and my phone rang. I know all the ads say, "Let it ring" but I answered it anyway. The call was from Kristy. I answered the phone to hear a falsetto four year old say, "Hello! It's Me...Mommy". If the falsetto didn't give it away, then the 'Mommy' would have. I could barely keep from laughing, but I had a conversation with 'Mommy' and then he finally fessed up and giggling said he was just teasing me. It was a heartwarming way to end a very long day!

Where's the family poll?

I just was wondering where the family poll was? Did the last family poll hit to close to people's heart? The ducks vs beavers is just like politics don't bring it up because your most likely going to offend someone.

If the administrator doesn't have any good ideas for a family poll maybe we can help him?
What chocolate do you prefer? Milk, Dark, Both, Neither, Whatever is closest.
Favorite Hamburger Joint?
Taco Bell vs Dell Taco vs Taco Time?

Just so you know the new adminstrator got his title by a hostile tack over. J/k

MARLEY AND ME

Max 2. Read the book, it is for sure going to be better than the movie.

well, mom, you almost had me crying last night

I finished Marley and Me. I had to put the book down and control myself to stop the flow. What really got me was the kids contributions to the funeral.

Thanks for your thoughts and prayers!

Just an update...we got the final word that Ricky's job is SAFE! Wahoo!!! ( although that means longer here in AZ) This is NOT the time to be out a really good job! Love you all and thank you for your prayers!

em

Bathroom Funny

If you don't want to read this I understand but be forewarned it is bathroom humor. At my own embarrassment I share this story because I find it that funny.

Yesterday I was going to the bathroom, I had been in there a while when I hear my phone ring. Taylor picks up. And this is the side of the conversation I hear, or at least what I thought I heard.

My mom is pooping.

(Pause Pause)

It's really smelly, I can smell it out here.

(Pause)

Can you smell it over there?

Then Taylor comes into the bathroom with a clothes pin on his nose. Luckily it was just Aunt Jenn and she can correct me if I told the story wrong but yeah it was pretty funny from my end. Luckily everyone poohs and luckily every one's pooh is smelly sometimes.'

Blech! Foggy Weather

We've had so much fog lately...some days not clearing until afternoon and then for only an hour. Today was wonderfully clear...but I could see the fog hovering, ready to sweep in on us at any moment. It makes me happy to see the blue sky and the hint of the sun on the horizon as I drive to work. This morning the jet trails were a beautiful apricot against the pale blue sky.

The forecast is for more air stagnation--which also means freezing weather and fog--for the rest of the week. Then we should have a storm and get some snow in the mountains for the winter sports enthusiasts. We are currently 3 inches under in our precipitation for the weather year.

Tune in at 5:00 pm for the next weather forecast. teehee xoxox

Cameron

As he refuses to blog, and I have no life (highlight of my weekend? bleaching my mustache), thought I'd update you on his.

Williams' CPA's were correct. There is no benefit, taxably, by reinvesting his back Social Security. However his accountant says that the statement they send will be itemized by year. Therefore, he'll go back and file back tax returns for those specific years for Cameron. He doubts that Cameron, ages 8-18, made enuf money to be taxed on. He says that Cam won't have to pay taxes on that money. Cameron said it was the best $27.50 he ever spent.

Secondly, he did make an offer on a house on Friday. It's a short sale, meaning the bank has 90 days to decide if they want to accept his offer. He did put escrow money down on it tho so if they get a better offer, he'll be able to counter it if he wants. He isn't expecting to get it but I think its exciting that he's even thinking along those lines.

Need Pictures

Susan, I am anxiously awaiting an opportunity to make you an elf. I need a picture. Kind of a close up. The ones I have pixelate (is that a word) and I can't use them. Please email me one! xoxo

Some elf movies I made

first one:
http://elfyourself.jibjab.com/view/JmLiHCmXHIjJR9VO/Pa4OHY1Ka44gnbP8ZSe1a4ol

the only person who will understand this next one and think it's funny is probably Taylor:
http://elfyourself.jibjab.com/view/FpaMZaWq8Xf7ChTR/Pa4OHY1Ka44gnbP8ZSe1a4ol

Who's Gone Disco?

We have a little retro disco going on to celebrate the holidays! Get your hustle ready!


http://elfyourself.jibjab.com/view/TqmpJY42RjAyp0S1GMbT

The Williams Family Dancers

The Williams Family are surely in the Christmas Spirit. I love the nostalgia of their dance number. It reminds me of the 40's musicals mom loved so much! Enjoy!


http://elfyourself.jibjab.com/view/LqwIdU8RmHy7mIhE#/owner/LqwIdU8RmHy7mIhE

An Office Epiphany.

I am thinking that I might look into Dwight's method of matrimony... just need to find a boy who doesnt speak german. Oh, and maybe I should buy a beet farm.

Check out the Dancing Eugenies

http://elfyourself.jibjab.com/view/7IJa5OxFTfbKYlG6

Be Patient. I'll get you all dancing before the day is through!

The Alarm Clock

We have a new alarm clock. It projects the time onto the ceiling so Ben no longer has to sit up during the night to see over me to check the time. However it has brought us a new nighttime activity. Do you remember as a kid punching the numbers 07734 into a calculator and turning it upside down to read the word 'hello'? Well we keep trying to read the alarm clock in the same way. We mentally do the flip and then read the word. Did you know that 8:08 is Bob? 5:05 is SOS There are many words we've found. But our favorite, that we only see on the weekends. 11:34. I'll let you do the flip.
xoxo

Family Christmas Celebration

Okay - I think that most of the family members are available the weekend after Christmas for the celebration. We will plan on the official celebration being a brunch on Sunday, December 28th at 10:30 am. Whoever would like is welcome to come on Saturday (or whenever). I'll do a casual dinner on Saturday night and we can do games or movies. I am looking forward to it. It is always so much fun. Susan, I hope that you and Cameron and Brandi if she wants to come can make it.

Working Woman

Well I am back at work. What does that mean well it means that I get up at 4:00 in the morning (yes, I am my mothers child). I hit the gym around 4:30 and exercise for roughly an hour and 15 minutes before heading home to get ready for work. I try to be at work by 7. Here is the crazy part of the day. Haley comes with me until around 11, when I either pick up Taylor at preschool, take Haley to Kelly's and Taylor to my house to play with Uncle Jason. Then I head back to work until 3, when I get off. I am looking forward to January and school being full time for Taylor. I feel a little crazy right now running around. I worry I will forget Taylor at school. The nice thing is I really don't have to work much more when I get home which has been pretty impossible anyways.

This last week has been completely busy. Cam was gone on Monday night. Tuesday night Jason, Taylor and I decorated our tree. When Cam got home he had homework. Wednesday night Taylor had swim lessons and Cam went to an information session for the Eugene Police Department. The EPD would be a really great job for him, I guess the EPD takes excellent care of their officers. The application process is super long, it could take up to a year before actually getting hired. Well to say the least with me getting up at the crack of dawn I have to get ready for bed right after Taylor gets to bed. It's pretty silly once we get in to a rountine I think it will be okay. Right now I feel a little frazzled. I hadn't even turned my computer on the last couple days.

I know I said I would post regarding the Saturday after Christmas. It looks good for us. Let us know a date and time. I am sure if it is okay with the Williams the Langworthy's and the Jason Proett's would like to spend Saturday night and hang out. What do you guys have going on that Monday. Let us know.

LOVE YOU!!!!

Where is Everybody???

Things have gone quiet here for a couple of days and I'm missing everybody. Have been disappointed that the Head Rutabaga has yet to sign on and post. Renee -- ya got them set up didn't you? I'm also waiting for Isabel to sign on and tell us what the burrito said to the taco.

Not much going on here. Cameron has an appt with a realtor tomorrow to look at some houses. He got prequalified last week and is also meeting with an accountant to determine if some back pay social security he rec'd earlier this year can be waived from taxes if he reinvests it. Whaddaya think, CPA Ladies? The telling thing I find with this is that the girlfriend is ALSO going to the realtor with him. Hmmmmm .... do you think that's a sign?

Talk about STRESS.......

Hey everyone,

There have been some new developments here in Arizona. As most of you know, for the past 3 years, Ricky has been working for a company called Cox Communications. Well they just announced that they will be doing a 2% cut back before the end of the year. Which means that they are going to be laying off a LOT of people. Ricky found out, that his department is next. They are planning on asking the people who are close to retirement to go first, but with the economy the way it is, they have not had much luck with that. So its time for manditory layoffs. please keep your fingers crossed, and say a little prayer for us. love you and miss you all.
Em

Thanksgiving and Fishing

I don't know how you're Thanksgiving weekend went, but mine was the best I have had in my first 30 years of life. We spent Thanksgiving Day at Grandma Judy's house and had a wonderful dinner. Turkey, Honey Baked ham, stuffing, mashed potatoes, Grandma Alta's gravy, homemade rolls, yummy jello salad, homemade pie, egg nog and Dad's root beer. My favorites were the ham and Grandma Alta's chess pie (walnut and raisins with meringue on top). We had people from both sides of the family there: Grandma Judy, Grandma Alta, Aunt Leslie, Grandpa Dan, Tina, and Aunt Jennifer. After dinner we played games. Me and Kristy won at Pictionary, Grandma Judy won at Scattergories, I won 2 games of Mexican Train, and then me and Kristy won 2 games of Cribbage against Grandma Judy and Aunt Leslie. The next day we headed out to the Oregon Coast with Grandpa Dan, Tina, and Aunt Jennifer. We had planned a weekend long fishing trip at Siltcoos Lake, just south of Florence on the Oregon Coast. When we got there, the weather was perfect and it stayed that way all weekend long. About 50-55 degrees and sunny with little to no wind. We stayed at the Fishmill Lodges, right next to the lake with a nice view and a handily accessible dock for the boat. We fished, played video games, watched movies and TV, and ate lots of yummy food. The fishing was pretty successful too. On Friday, Jennifer caught a small trout, which she ate and shared for dinner that night. On Saturday morning, Tina caught a jack. That evening, we went to the Casino for the dinner buffet. Shortly after that, we found out the Ducks had won the Civil War. On Sunday, I hooked into a pretty good fish, but my line got wrapped around the end of my pole and the fish broke my line. He jumped up out of the water while I was fighting him and we could tell that it was a pretty good sized fish. A little while later, Jennifer caught a 14 lb. salmon. A little while after that, I hooked into a 12 lb. salmon and landed it! This is the biggest fish I have ever caught, so I was pretty excited. After that, I caught a nice sized jack to end our fishing for the day. We then went to the Family Fun Center and raced go-carts. Taylor thought this was a lot of fun. After go-carts we went to see if we could catch a ride on some sand rails because I thought Taylor would really enjoy it, not to mention me too! I remember riding them when I was a little kid and it seemed like the thrill of a lifetime. The guide did not disappoint, as me, Aunt Jen, and Taylor went for the ride of a lifetime on the Oregon Dunes. Other than sand getting in every part of our bodies, and the occasional scream of terror, we all had an amazing time on the ride. Taylor said it was his favorite part of the trip, which I don't doubt due to the hysterical laughter and screaming that came from him as we zipped up and down the dunes. After that, we walked around Old Town Florence before having a nice dinner at Mo's and ice cream at BJ's. That evening, I drove Kristy and the kids home so that she could go to work on Monday and I could write a short paper that was due at noon on Monday. I wrote it Sunday night after getting home and on Monday morning I headed back to the coast to fish for one more day with Grandpa Dan, Tina, and Jennifer. On Monday, I caught an 8 lb. salmon, hooked into another good sized salmon and lost it, and Jennifer ended our haul of fish by catching a nice small jack. The weather was not as cooperative on Monday, as the wind pushed and spun us all over the place. Finally it began to pour down rain and we had to call it a day. So all in all, I fought and caught the 2 biggest fish of my life, rode in the boat all over the lake, spent time in the beautiful wilderness, ate lots of delicious food, spent time with wonderful family, rode the sand rails on the dunes, and raced some go-carts. It was a wonderful weekend and I look forward to doing it again next year! I will post some pictures when I get a chance.

No Stress for Wal-Mart Worker

That's cuz he died. At work. Hmmm .... maybe they do have stress in their 9 to 5 jobs.

Back Home

Well, we are back home after a nice trip to Utah to visit Gina's family.  We had a good time hanging out with family and doing various Thanksgiving-like activities.  We enjoyed seeing everyone - especially the little cousins that change so much with each visit.  I've thrown a few recent family photos on this post - from Isabel and I doing the "Daddy-Daughter Dinner Date" - to our family Christmas Tree Hunting Trip - to our shooting adventure with the cousins - and the family Christmas Pageant.  But even with all the fun - we are glad to be home.

Exam Update

I got result today and I have passed my 3rd CPA exam. WOO HOO!!!!! I can't share the excitement that I feel but it is like a little kid on Christmas morning. I think I annoyed Cam a little bit by screaming for like a half hour.

The exam was kind of a stressful situation that I wasn't sure if I would pass. I had to take the exam up in Portland because Eugene was booked. I felt like I didn't get enough sleep and Haley was so young (just a little over a month old), I figured I couldn't have done very well on it but I got an 89.

Thanks Max, Gina and Jenn for letting me crash at your place and hanging out with my kids. I really did appreciate it.

One more to go. I will probably take tax in January. Be sure to keep me in your prayers. I will definitely need it.

LOVE YOU!!!!

Thanksgiving on the Coast

It rained! I was hoping for a little sunshine. But it rained. We had a great time with Grampa and Gramma. We had Thanksgiving dinner at 'South Jetty Betty's' a little commissary at the RV park. We decided that we missed the smell of food cooking. The meal itself wasn't anything to write home about...or blog about here...but we had all the fixin's for $6.95 per person with no cooking or clean up. During the day we went for a very long ride--the girls in one car, the boys in the other. We stopped along the jetty for Grampa to fly a kite--and you know Jason, he's always ready to pose. We stayed in a small 'garden view' mobile home in the park. The ranger first set us up with sheets that were too small for the bed, so we had to go get others. Then we had to go get the ranger to help us get the heat going. I think they thought we were a bit of a pain. After Thanksgiving dinner we went back to the Motorhome. Vickie worked on her computer while the rest of us watched a movie that Grampa had gotten in the mail. It was really a great movie...Walter Mathau and Glenda Jackson in Hopskotch. We headed out on Friday morning by about 7:00. We ate breakfast in Veneta at a great little place called Dixies, dropped Jason off and drove home. A great couple of days!

Oregon 65, Oregon State 38

Ducks won!! Who else besides me voted for them on the poll? The rest of you are fools of the highest caliber.

Another Christmas Dinner Idea

We are fine having it on Saturday so Jen can be there - if that works for Ben and Renee. But another idea was weekend following Christmas....I think the date is the 28th? Does that work better for folks? Sound off and say what you think!

Happy Thanksgiving!

I posted an image heavy Thanksgiving post... So I left it on my own blog.

Check check check it out..

http://superjennyp.blogspot.com/

Wish List

Gina called me last week and asked me what I wanted for Christmas. I could not come up with anything off the top of my head so I have been working on the list and here, I will share some ideas:

1- (dvd) John Mayer, Where the light is
2- (CD) In Rainbows, Radiohead
3- (calendar) Preferably from Kristy filled with fabulous photos of the family where she looks hot and I have boogers coming out of my nose.
4- Socks sz 7-9
5- (book) Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver
6- (book) In defense of Food by Michael Pollan
7- (cd) Gossip in the Grain, Ray Lamontagne
8- hot pads for kitchen use
9- a good cookie sheet type pan
10- (book) Don't go to the Cosmetics counter without me by Paula Begoun


So there... some ideas to make your lives easier. Want to return the favor? What do you guys want for Christmas? If you dont tell me you are all going to get rocks!

2 more cents...

Although I will be bummed if I miss the Christmas dinner... I dont want it to be inconvenient for everybody else.

So, Grown ups: Figure it out and let me know what the plan is. I was unaware that it was always planned for the last Sunday before Christmas. Our vacation schedules are done a year in advance. Now that I know that I will see what I can do for next year.

Love you all. Happy Thanksgiving! I am thankful for all of you!

Thanksgiving Message--including Christmas Plans

Not sure where to post this so it won't be lost in the string of comments. So I'll make a new post so it's sure to be seen.

First of all Happy Thanksgiving to you all. The children are all a twitter over the prospect of 4 days off. I'm all a twitter about stuffing and cranberries!

Holiday Plans We are working toward spending two weekends in Portland. The only issue is our family...the dogs. (Whoever said our nest was empty?) We have a great neighbor who we rely on quite heavily and takes great care of our dogs while we're gone. Probably better than we do. We came home early once and she was in playing with them and spending time with them so they wouldn't be lonely.

So our plans revolve around whether our friend and neighbor can take care of our 4 legged family both weekends. We'll discuss that with her and get back to you about it soon after the Thanksgiving Day.

Love to you all!

Whoo Finals are OVER!!

So this would be my first time writting a blog. Whoppie! I was pretty busy with cheer and studying for finals. But I thought I would write one. My finals were pretty easy, I had a regualar math test, a 90 question spanish test, an open note street law test a speech for english and a in class essay on the atomic bomb for American history. How fun do those all sound? I am about to leave for Utah and I am so excited. A five day weekend with absoulutly 0 things to do. And I get to see my other family. I cant wait to see you all at the christmas dinner! I have enjoyed reading all your blogs. There pretty intresting. So whats new with me...cheer is dramatic, school is hard, I am getting a cold, I think I am going to reread Harry Potter 7 again because I am out of good things to read. Haven't had time to hit up the library latley, I loved the last office episode!! (I LOVE JIM AND PAM) but a personal favorite moment was Michael's reaction when he sees Toby, I watched that over and over again. Or when Michale trys to buy drugs. I love that show!! Well i am heading off to Utah.

10 Things I'm Thankful for

Hi. Its Isabel. I was going to write about what a burrito might say to a taco,but dad said i should write about Thanksgiving.So here are ten things i am thankful for...

1. 1. Milk chocolate
2. 2. Dark chocolate
3. 3. Family
4. 4. Um...education?
5. 5. Books
6. 6. Hobos
7. 7. Rutabagas


8. Ummmmmmmmmmm...
9. Where am i?
10. Pencils.

So at the end i just wrote random things. But on my account, hobos ARE important. I hope you have a better Thanksgiving than mine.

Thanksgiving Greeting

To those we will not be able to see this weekend, here is a wish for a wonderful day, spent with family, and loved ones. Renee and I will be in Florence, with Grandpa, and Joyce. We are going to pick up Jason Wed. afternoon and head over. Will be heading home early Fri morning since I work that day. Again, to all, have a wonderful, safe holiday.

Happy Birthday Max3!!!

Happy Birthday to you! Wow! 17. Is your Dad really old enough to have a 17 year old son?? Let's think about your accomplishments in the past year. You've survived a whole year of driving without an accident. You caught the smallest fish on the boat. You haven't lost a cell phone in a long time. You've had some practice being turned into a pretzel. You've eaten a few peeps and you've cheated at Text Twist. The previous mentioned fetes far outweigh the minuscule accomplishments of junior class VP and Homecoming Prince. What a full year! You are doing well in the world. May your day be filled with happiness and joy!!!! Aunt Renee and Uncle Ben

CIVIL WAR

While I am a Duck fan, I am sort of rooting for the Beavs this weekend. Only because it would be nice to have an Oregon team in the Rose Bowl. The Pac-10 needs to go to the Rose Bowl and kick the Big-10's hiney. Go Beavs!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Sorry if this offends any of the die-hard Eugeneites..

5 Amazing Things I Learned about Cameron this Weekend

5. He is seriously looking to buy a house in P=ville
4. Brandi makes the best meatloaf ever.
3. He is a closet watcher of "Jon and Kate Plus Eight" and even has a favorite multiple -- Aiden
2. Everytime he buys groceries, he donates $20 to feed someone else
1. "Extreme Home Makeover" makes him cry.

On Turning 55

Thanks all of you for your birthday wishes. It was a really nice day; lots of rememberances, little gifts, etc from my friends and co-workers. Camerson sent me some beautiful flowers ... and gets extra credit as he sent them to work and allowed me to show him off!!! (He also bought me a new phone and added me to his cell phone bill .... meaning he'll be paying my bill for the next couple of years... It was hysterical ... role reversal... "no texting, no downloading, i'll be checking the bill")

BUT ... I've discovered that if you MUST turn 55, you definitely should spend it with a group of thirty year olds.

After work Cameron had arranged a little drinks thing with some of my friends so that was nice. Then after that ended, he and 5 of the Prineville hotshots took me out to dinner to the nicest steak house in town. They all got cleaned and dressed up --- I'm used to them in nomex and yellow shirts --- and we had the best dinner ever. Lots of appetizers and shrimp coctails and roasted potatoes and red meat and bottles and bottles of wine.

Here's the funny part: they all play this game after a big meal called Card in the Hat. They all put their credit cards in a baseball cap, allow the waitress to pick one and that person pays the full bill. Luckily birthday girl didn't have to participate; our good friend Garet won the honor of paying over $400 for dinner.

If that kind of laughter and enthusiasm can be recaught at 55 -- even for the moment -- then I'm all for it.

Family Opinion

Well, it's official. For the most part we are a family of shower-peeing individuals. Apologies to those of you who think it is gross and never knew that your closest family members were possibly urinating in your shower. Hopefully this thought does not ruin how enjoyable and refreshing a nice hot or cold shower can be. I know I will never be able to look at my shower the same way again.

More Thoughts about Christmas Dinner

Jennifer just phoned and asked me to post since she is no longer near internet access. Since the goal of the dinner is to get the family together, it would be optimum to have all there. Would it be possible to do the dinner on Saturday afternoon the 13? (Jenn wouldn't be working and we would still be able to travel easily). She gets that if this isn't an option as a grown up we occasionally have to miss things due to work schedules, (I echo that sentiment if Sunday the 14th is the option). I am to pass along thanks and appreciation to Max and Gina for hosting this event every year. (I am echoing this also and totally bow to the needs and thoughts of the hosts!) Susan, jump in here and let us know when it works for you and Cam. I think Dad and Joyce should be available either weekend. xoxo

Comment Pop-Ups

Due to the difficulty some of you are having with the way comments appear in a separate window, I felt it necessary to change it back to the way it was. Sorry to all of you that voted in favor of keeping the pop-up format.

Christmas Dinner Celebration

In checking with the big boss - either the 21st or the 14th would work for the celebration. So which day works better for everyone? We have our ward christmas party that saturday night (the 13th) - but you are all welcome to come spend the night of either the 13th or the 2oth. Jen is working on the 21st - so she is already voting for the 14th. We can make both work. Anyone else want to weigh in?

Feliz Navidad...

Have we set a date for our annual Christmas dinner?

If requests are being taken, I am off Sunday the 14th of December. It's my only Sunday off before Christmas.

The Most Dangerous Cake in the World

This recipe comes well reviewed. Since it's a Sunday other wise known as a Free Day to those Eugene-ites, I pass it on to you. Enjoy a Sunday Treat!

5 MINUTE CHOCOLATE MUG CAKE

4 tablespoons flour
4 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons cocoa

1 egg

3 tablespoons milk
3 tablespoons oil

3 tablespoons chocolate chips (optional)
a small splash of vanilla extract
1 large coffee mug

Add dry ingredients to mug, and mix well. Add the egg and mix thoroughly. Pour in the milk and oil and mix well. Add the chocolate chips (if using) and vanilla extract, and mix again.

Put your mug in the microwave and cook for 3 minutes at 1000 watts (high). The cake will rise over the top of the mug, but don't be alarmed! Allow to cool a little, and tip out onto a plate if desired.

EAT! (this can serve 2 if you want to feel slightly more virtuous). And why is this the most dangerous cake recipe in the world? Because now we are all only 5 minutes away from chocolate cake at any time of the day or night!

Finally a Picture

Hey, I finally figured out how to add a picture to my profile. It took me a little while but I figured it out. This is an older picture (old hair cut) - of me in Mexico on the trip Gina and I took on our 20th wedding anniversary. So it is, admittedly of me when I was younger (by about 4 years I think). Hard to believe it has been that long! I picked it because it came up easy in our computer. Now that I've learned to post pictures this could be even more fun!

We picked our tree today. Gina has co-worker who owns a small Christmas tree farm not far from where we live. She knew we were going to be out of town for Thanksgiving - and said that we should just come out - pick the tree we wanted - and she would cut it down and bring it to us when we get back in town. I was all over that.....no kneeling in the mud - hefting the tree up the hill - scratching the top of the suburban getting it tied on. They lowered their tree price this year because they are worried people won't be able to afford to buy a tree. So all their trees - large noble firs - are selling for $20. Of course not everyone gets the free delivery! We are doing our part by pushing business their direction - hoping they will sell more trees.

Finally took the sail boat out of the water today. About a month later than I should have. I hate that job. But it needed to happen.

Love you all. Max.

I'm a....

Take the Quiz and Share Your Results!

http://twilightersanonymous.com/quizzes/quizzes.html

Take the Quiz and Share Your Results!

Taylor's First Sleep over

Taylor got invited to go to Bolt with Jimmy Martin on Friday Night. When I asked what time they were going to be home because Cam and I were planning a date night. Jim invited him to spend the night. I was reading a text message to Cam when Taylor came out from the hallway.

Taylor - "Mommy, I need to tell you something." In a very sweet voice, "I love you and they have an extra bed."

He was so excited. Cam and I talked about it and yes we decided to let him spend the night. Jim picked Taylor up at about 3:15. He didn't even seem to be a little distressed. Running out the door. Jim texted me 10 min later to let me know that Taylor has been crying and wanting his mom for the last 10 min. It made me feel better. He does love his mommy.

I got a text at roughly 9:00 from Jim the boys had been playing with Grace (Jimmy's 1 year old little sister) for about an hour. They were all doing really good.

The date was fun. We went out with Nate and Lindsey. We started off with pizza, bowling and sweet life. I sucked it up at bowling and that's okay. Haley was a little angel and did quite well. I am so glad that Eugene is smoke free, otherwise I couldn't take Haley into a bowling alley. I did fall asleep quite early and crashed. I woke up this morning with my socks on and contacts in.

I was really looking forward to sleeping in but Haley and I woke up at 7:30.

On a completely unrelated side note. I ran/ellipticaled 6 miles yesterday.

Opening Weekend

I understand not all are Twilight Fans--Max and Morgan you need to reconsider your stand on this--but I'm excited about opening weekend. I took the quiz and guess what? I also made Ben take it. If you want to find out which character you are here's a website for guys:
http://twilightersanonymous.com/quizzes/which-male-twilight-character-are-you.html
and for girls:
http://twilightersanonymous.com/quizzes/find-out-which-female-character-you-are.html

Southridge vs. South Medford

I spent last evening at a football game. Usually, unless I'm emotionally attached to one of the teams, I'm not really interested in going. It was a new experience being emotionally attached to a cheerleader.

We got to the game and found ourselves surrounded by Southridge fans in the line to pay. They were all very nice people. Ben likes sitting at the top of the stadium so that we have back support. We sat on the 50 yard line. It was a great view of the game, but could have been closer to the student section and the cheerleaders--which is what I came to watch.

There weren't many people sitting that high but we managed to sit right next to a young man who is a coach in a neighboring town. As soon as the coach's friend arrived there were three men who pretty much sat with their heads together and became 'Stadium Coaches'. I lost my football companion. I could say things to him...and he wouldn't hear. Oh, well. It gave me plenty of time to answer all the texts from Max3 who had stayed home to attend a friend's birthday. How's that for school spirit? A little questionable if you ask me.

Max3 began texting at 5:45 and texted all through the game wanted to know scores, time left, offensive drives. I did my best John Madden--hopefully without being so annoying. I included Max2 who also began texting me half way through the game. It wore down the battery of my little iPhone that had been fully charged when I left for work in the morning.

Southridge dominated after the first quarter which hailed comments like 'yes!' 'we kill' 'our kicker's a beast' 'heck yesssss' and finally 'Take a look at your future state champions'. I was thanked profusely for my updates and was assured that Southridge coud 'take' Beaverton with a little concern expressed about Jesuit.

I totally agree with Ben. The Southridge fans were great. No booing or disrespect to the officials when a call didn't go their way. Of course by the end of the game--when the score was 52-21--what would be the point?

During the game, I wended my way to the student section to catch a closer view of Morgan and get photos of course. (I'm sorry they're just iPhone pics). I love Morgan's bounce and spirit. I only giggled once that the cheer squad put 'cheerleader' on the back of their coats so that others would know who they were and why they had pom poms in their hands. I may be a little biased, but I think Morgan's enthusiasm for the cheer and her extra little bounce she put on things made her stand out among her peers. She tolerated her hug, goodby thrown kiss, and pictures with the least degree of outward embarrassment. Bless you sweetie for tolerating your old auntie xoxo to you all!

KUDOS TO SOUTHRIDGE

A great game in the first half, after that it was all Southridge. What a well coached team, and a great group of young men. The fans were great as well. Very respectable, and gracious in winning.

When should I be expecting....

Cuties in my local store? I saw clementines at the store the other day, but haven't seen Cuties yet. May still be too early, but I seem to recall them being available around Christmas time (I think I have recieved some in stockings) so it can't be long now right?

Obama 1-BCS 0

Check this out!

http://www.ksl.com/?nid=148&sid=4862849

Problems with Pop-ups?

My popup blocker won't allow the comments to come up unless I am also hitting alt or ctrl when I click the link. What I do instead is right click the link, and open it in another window or tab. This allows me to stay on the blog in one spot, but read the comments in another. This works on whatever update of internet explorer I have, I can't testify to anything else.

Lots of Stress

Happy Birthday Susan!!  I'll add my birthday greeting - and try to not think about your age this birthday, since I have always been able to subtract 10 - and get to my age - and even that seems old to me!  But happy birthday wishes from the Williams family.

I've had a lot of stress lately.  I'm sure you have been watching the general economy - the falling indicators - the rising unemployment  - etc.  I'm sure it's giving us all stress.  Yesterday the current state budget revenue forecast was released - and I'm sure you saw that we are down by about $1.3 billion - and it is going to get worse.  I've managed an $80 million hole in my billion dollar budget since June of 2007 - and now with only about 6 months left in the period - I've got to try to squeeze out another $15 million in cuts between now and June 3oth.  Add to that - huge cuts in the next budget building effort - nearing the 100s of millions possibly - and it creates a lot of stress.  I have found myself lately secretly coveting the jobs of people working at Subway, or the gas station, or the guy who picks up our trash and recycle.  At the end of the day I doubt he carries his work home with him.  I suspect he isn't waking up in the middle of the night worried  about a decision he made earlier that day.   "Welcome to Walmart"  has a really nice to ring to it.

Tonight I came home from a full day of awful meetings - and the house was full of teenagers - friends of Max getting ready for the Powder Tuff Volleyball game, our friend Suzi and her kids (since Ron is in Germany on business) and all our kids.  Gina had made Cafe Rio Pork (great recipe) and everyone was finished.  I was late - from the great day I had.   The kitchen looked like it had suffered a terrorist attack - and all of them were walking out the door - to games, pack meeting, Enrichment night, etc.  So after putting my cold plate together - and eating alone at the kitchen table - I tackled the kitchen cleanup.  Now you are wondering what this has to do with stress right?  Well - we have this cupboard that has all our Tupperware, and lots of other crap etc. in it.  You have to bend over, find the container - and then search in vain for the right lid.  All the while everything else is falling out of the cupboard - and you find out the container you used DOESN'T HAVE A LID ANYMORE!  So there I was - pulling out with great force ALL OF THE TUPPERWARE - and THROWING IT ALL ON THE FLOOR - in a total Tupperware temper tantrum.  And that is when I decided I probably have a little too much stress.  I guess it is a good thing we don't have a dog.

Eventually, I gained control, reordered the Tupperware.  And did the dishes.  I actually enjoyed washing the dishes.  In a job where much of what you do is esoteric and sitting in meetings - and trying to look like you know what your doing - there is something gratifying about just doing the dishes.  It may be the only productive thing I've done today.  And that probably includes writing this post.  

My Five

Mine are very similar to Ben's. The only thing I'd add in ...probably substituting for the weight ('cuz heaven knows I didn't maintain)... would be Sunriver for Memorial Weekend. Oh and the 2 trips to Dufur with Grampa and Gramma. I recognize I've got more than 5 but I'm sticking to them anyway.

Another Year Nearly Gone

2008 is drawing to a close, and what a year it has been. A new grand child, (a really cute one at that), new directions lives have taken. As we lookback over the past year, what are some of the great things that we have done or have happened to us. Let us limit our list to a top five. Here are my five, not in any particular order.
1. Fishing with Grand Pa.
2. Spending a week in Ketchikan fishing.
3. Welcoming a new grand baby.
4. Maintaining my weight, (ok gained five pounds) sheesh!!!!!!
5. Being married to the greatest person I know, (soon to be 15 years).
Yes Jason I know that the Married thing did not happen this year, but every year it will still make the top five.
You guys all have a great Friday

New Comment pop-up

Don't really care for the way the comments now pop up, irritating

Peeing in the shower

I just have to say, I will no longer be showering at any of your houses when I come to visit. GROSS!!!!! (Don't get me wrong I have peed in my own shower a few times but I still think it is rather gross).

Jennifer - don't you typically take baths. I hope your not bathing in your pee.

Mommies Boobies

Taylor attends a christian preschool and today I was picking him up and he was showing Haley off to some other little family. As we walked out of the school it was raining and the little boy said to his mommy "Babies don't drink water." The mother replied and they were having a serious conversation about it. We were a little bit a way from them when Taylor decided he should join in on the conversation. "My mom's boobs have milk in them." I of course just kept walking and the mom said something like that's what babies like best. It was quite funny.

Is she being ironic?

Mom has used the term "da bomb" several times on this blog. Are you being serious or ironic? I used that term in my personal blog to make fun of people who used extremely outdated lingo but thought they were with it.

http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=74513463&blogID=436902340&Mytoken=C025BECF-B073-4DCA-8CC857F556EB2FAF216350317

Someone Else Wants to Blog With Us

So -- how does the family feel about inviting Jim Strunk to our blog? I was telling him about it on the phone this morning and he'd love to be included. His email is jstrunk@papemachinery.com. Would the administrators please invite him to join?

Happy Birthday Susan!

Happy Birthday To You! I hope your day is Fabulous! May the Happy Birthday Fairy shine down on you today! As a kid, I don't remember many birthday celebrations, but I do remember the time we had the fancy candle light dinner together and got to invite all our friends. The other fun birthday memory I have is the family parties we had with the Heaps, Hansons, and Coyners in Craig's red carpeted family room/den. Don't you share a birthday with Jim Strunk? (Sorry, that just popped in to my brain.) Have a wonderful day and know that we love you! xoxoxo

10,000 BUCKS?????????????????

Well I agree with my wife, way to go honey, especially the Alaska fishing part.

Communication

I have to be one of the worst communicators ever. This morning as I am rushing around the house to get out the door, Cam asks where I am going. I reply "To work. You did know that I was supposed to be back at work, right?" I go back to work and I forget to tell my husband. Yes it's quite funny, I often blame him for not listening when he doesn't know about something but really it is most likely just me forgetting to tell him. Its understandable I tell so many people that I forget who I have told and just figure that he knows, besides I did post it on a blog, shouldn't that be communication enough.

Honey, I love you and I will try harder to tell you about the important things in my life.

$10,000....Wahoo!

I would put some into the house. New floors, sink, and countertops for the kitchen, and paint the outside. I would put the rest in savings...except for another trip to Ketchikan Alaska. We had such a great time. (I'll add a few pictures to the post later). We wouldn't need to stay with our friends. We could stay at Clover Pass and fish from there. How great would that be!!!!

You Just Won $10,000

So -- you buy a scratch ticket and luck of all luck, you won $10,000. What would you do with it? Would you put it towards your mortgage? Pay off those student loans? Maybe do something wildly extravagant? What would you do if Luck smiled on you today?

Kristy is da' bomb!

Kristy I love going to the website and seeing things changed up a bit. The new subtitle is really nice. I really love the poll. I can hardly wait to see what other questions we'll be asked. Thanks for your administration of this great family tie. xoxo

Recipes

Hey Max,

You know that yummy delicious tritip you make. I was hoping that you could put the recipe for the marinade on here. Also I know Gina makes that yummy cheeseball. YUMMY cheese ball. Can you get that recipe to?

Thanks
Kristy

In the... In the.. In the future....

I cooked some of our catch from our fishing trip the other day. When are we going again? Wasn't it just too fun? And I don't think I have ever had such yummy fish. I made fish tacos with shredded cabbage and a delicious chipotle (chipoodle, chipatuple) dressing. They were pretty dang delicious actually. They looked like this:


Recently I have been feeling ready to advance in my career... Maybe I WILL move to Mexico.. some beach town.. and open a taco shop. It could look like this:



And I could learn how to do this (and look like this):



And here is my new boyfriend... we met at the fish market. His name is Diego. Sometimes he gives me specials on his catch of the day:

(BOYFRIEND DELETED... WE ALREADY BROKE UP)
I may have to look into this. I am open to other suggestions if you all have any ideas of what I should do when I grow up.