Country Bumpkins' In Oz

... And more remodeling at the Watson house

2011-11-09T20:58:00.000-06:00

We tore into the dining room last weekend (Nov. 5, 2011). It is gutted and waiting for a new facelift (and new wiring). My handy-dandy husband and his handy mama are kind of nice to have around.

Halloween 2011

2011-11-09T20:55:00.000-06:00

Shelby was a princess, of course! Harlan was a civil war soldier. Love those brown mutton chops, don't you?! We took the kiddos trick-or-treating but they pooped out on us at about 7:30 pm. They take after their father, in that, he isn't coherent after about 8:00 PM. Party Poopers!

Rich at the Pumpkin Patch

2011-11-09T20:52:00.000-06:00

I just like this photo of my hubby. Had to share.

Princess Shelby's 3rd Birthday

2011-05-17T21:16:00.000-05:00

Once upon a time, in a kingdom in the Midwest somewhere, lived a Princess Shelby in the Watson Castle. Her highness ruled the castle and she didn't bless anything that wasn't pink! Therefore, she summoned her servants to throw her a pink princess birthday party!

Here's the Diva in her princess throne. Happy 3rd Birthday Shelby!

This cake has edible paper on top which is the crown! Not bad tasting either.
How do you like the freehand work?!

Notice the wardrobe change! Diva!

Shelby's got the princess pose down for sure!
Thank you Ms. Denise for the box of princess costumes!

Cute, cute, cute ballet slippers!

Auntie Janet sent me a tutu! I love it!

All the princesses in the castle having such a good time!

Thank you for my pink cowboy hat and bracelets Grandma J. I can't wait to spend the gift card that Mamaw and Papaw sent me too!


Every princess needs her beauty sleep after a royal party!

The End.

Shelby is turning 3 years old

2011-05-06T20:42:00.000-05:00

Our little princess, Shelby Kate, is turning three years old next week. Can you believe she is already three? She is a princess for sure. She still loves pink dresses and has a fit when you try to dress her any other way. She loves tutus, little plastic heels, tiaras, magic wands, butterfly wings and all things pink. Her latest thing is she always tells mommy that she wants "to go shopping." That's my girl!

Shriner Circus - February 2011

2011-05-06T20:38:00.000-05:00

Here is Harlan and Shelby with Daddy as he is doing his Shriner duty and selling toys at the Shriner Circus. Nice fez daddy!

Harlan Earns His Tiger Cub Badge

2011-02-12T22:10:00.002-06:00

Woohoo! Harlan won the overall "Most Creative" Award for his "Edible Indian Corn" dessert contest.

Edible "Indian Corn" (right) earned Harlan the "Cooking Badge" (center) and the "Most Creative" Award.

John Thacker gives Harlan a model airplane for earning his Tiger Cub Badge. Thank you Pastor John!

Daddy is proud of his little guy. Don't they look great in uniform together?!

Happy Harlan at the Blue & Gold Cub Scout Banquet 2011.

We just had the honor to attend the Cub Scout Blue & Gold Banquet in which Harlan earned his Tiger Cub Badge. Harlan couldn't wait to start Cub Scouts when he entered first grade and he has loved it since. Not only did he get to walk in with the color guard holding the Tiger Cub flag, but tonight he also earned 12 activity beads along with his Bobcat Badge and his Tiger Cub Badge. In addition, there was a dessert contest tonight and Harlan (with a little help from mom) received the overall "Most Creative" award contest. The edible Indian Corn (made out of Kix, marshmellows, dried fruit and fruit roll-ups) was NOT much to eat but it sure did look good. Harlan helped with most of the dessert and he was proud to receive the cake mix prize!

Daddy was able to get off work for a few hours to attend the banquet and Pastor John and Mrs. Michelle also came to support Harlan tonight! Grandparents were not able to come because they all live out of town but we hope these pics sum up how proud Harlan was this evening. Mom and Dad are so proud of him.

Shake it Rich and Janet!

2011-01-29T15:57:00.005-06:00

Rich and his sister-in-law, Janet played in this contest at the Fisher Christmas party. They had to dance, shimmy and shake all of the balls out of a tissue box strapped to their backs. I wasn't going to post this because they look ridiculous but I just couldn't resist!

Harlan's first visit from the tooth fairy

2011-01-29T15:52:00.002-06:00

Harlan had to get his two front bottom teeth pulled a couple weeks ago. He had his adult teeth growing fast behind his baby teeth. Something didn't look right so daddy took him to the dentist and within minutes, he got his teeth pulled. Ch-ching! Big bucks from the tooth fairy for two teeth under his pillow! ($2.00)

Harlan's favorite cub scout meeting

2011-01-29T15:46:00.003-06:00

Harlan was so excited to get a chance to hold this gun at a recent Cub Scout Pack meeting.

Family Photos December 2010

2011-01-08T15:29:00.004-06:00

Front row from left: Harlan, Shelby, Rich, Mikey

Back row from left: Karen, Mark, Mom, Janet

Kate and Mark:

Mike and Janet:

Cousins: Harlan & Mikey:

Cousins Harlan, Mikey & Shelby:

Look at what I got for Christmas!

2011-01-08T15:02:00.006-06:00

I was super surprised to walk into my hallway to see my sister and nephew and mom standing there a day after Christmas. They drove all the way from New Mexico to give us a huge surprise! I was so excited to see them and so happy that they spent the week with us. Rich was working that day and I called him up immediately to tell him he is such a good liar for keeping this a secret for so long. He then asked when my brother (and his girlfriend Kate) was due to arrive and I got my next big surprise to have him and his girlfriend here too!

What a wonderful week. I had plans to work with Rich on remodeling our dining room this week and de-clutter the rest of the house during my off week but I would much rather spend it with family than do that. I love you mom, sis, Mikey, Mark and Kate.

They drove all this way with more goodies, more Christmas gifts, mom's banana bread and we created so many memorable good times.

Here are so pics from the week:

My beautiful sister, Janet, and her son, Mikey.

Happy New Year!

Please don't tell me you stuck those party favors in your mouth afterwards.

Rich and Rob Fisher blowing horns in unique ways.

Grandma and three grandkids making oatmeal together. Ahhh!

My beautiful Mom and handsome brother, Markie.

Brother & sisters: Karen, Mark and Janet.

My beautiful mama! Gosh, we look alike!

Looks like they are about to hitch up horses and a wagon

and buy flour from the country market, don't they?!

Now, that is more like it! Work it!

We are on our way to get family photos done.

Mark's beautiful girlfriend, Kate, and niece Shelby Kate.

Two peas in a pod. Shelby and her Uncle Markie.

She NEVER sits on anyone's lap besides mommy & daddy.

There's something about Mark that kiddos always love!

Kitchen Has Come a Long Way

2011-01-08T13:21:00.013-06:00

We have come a long way with this kitchen and we are finally done! Well, done enough to post photos. Just some few last painting touches, under-cabinet lights and fan and we will be done. Woohoo!

Thank you to everyone who has helped or has listened to our woes of not having a functional kitchen since July. We have saved so much time with our dishwasher and I actually want to be at home now. I used to avoid the messes at home by just staying away. Thank you to my wonderful husband who has endured all of the nagging and constantly working on this kitchen every waking hour when he is not at work. I am blessed to have such a great guy. Enjoy!

_______________________________________

Kitchen North Wall: (Before)

Kitchen North Wall: (After)

_______________________________________

Kitchen East Wall - Moving-in 2007:

Kitchen East Wall - Before Remodel:

Kitchen East Wall - After:

_______________________________________

Kitchen West wall: Moving-in 2007 (Before)

Kitchen West wall: (After)

_______________________________________

Just some pics of the family

2010-11-17T21:03:00.002-06:00

I love my boys.

Shelby has her daddy's eyes.
And mommy's legs... I believe they call our type of legs = "cankles."
Despite how chilly it is outside, Shelby refuses to wear anything else but pink dresses. AND her new favorite, little pink plastic shoes with a sparkly bow. Thank you Grandma J. for my pretty princess pumps.

More progress on the kitchen

2010-11-17T20:26:00.006-06:00

Our wonderful children have had tremendous patience as we have been working on the kitchen since July. So far, they have managed to stay away from the power tools, paint and wires! Shelby has even picked up the broom and she tries to sweep the floor, walls and anything else the big broom will extend to! Harlan has been playing by himself outside. He does a good job playing alone but he keeps telling me that he can't wait until Shelby is 3 years old and can play with him more. They love each other and don't argue often... yet.

The granite is coming... the granite is coming!

By the way, look at that great looking guy in overalls!

We are grateful for amazing friends that have come over to help lift and cut granite in nippy weather instead of going for a morning deer hunt. Rob, you are the best! Thank you to Amanda for lending us your husband for a few hours.

This was the maiden cut of granite. We didn't know what to expect. So far, so good!

So above is the wall behind the stove with just primer. I was playing in my Photoshop program with color for the walls. No, it hasn't been painted in real life yet but I'm thinking of the below color. I have to have COLOR!

So, what do you think of this color for the walls?

Too late! I already bought the paint and I'm going with the red walls anyway!

Kitchen Remodel progress

2010-11-16T12:29:00.004-06:00

So this is our kitchen before the remodeling started in July 2010. Yes, that was our only window in the entire kitchen.

You are looking at the North wall that had our stove with no place to put a hot pot or pan of cookies!

Yes, this was our sink area that looked out into the dining room/front door area.

And, yes, seen below was the ONLY counter space we had in the ENTIRE kitchen. It was a dark corner and you couldn't even see what you were working on because the light you see in the center is the ONLY light in the kitchen so you create a shadow on the counter. Total darkness.

Below is a teaser photo of what we have done so far. The counter you see in the foreground used to have a wall. I am standing in the dining room area taking this photo. There is LIGHT! There IS counter space now! Rich has done amazing work and pretty much on his own. He has torn out the lath & plaster, re-wired for more outlets, sheetrock, primed walls & used cabinets, put in can lights, painting, installing hardware on cabinets, put in a great big window, moved and modified the heater duct, granite cutting and MUCH MUCH more.

I'll keep you posted on the progress as I get time to upload these photos.

Dr. Harlan's Mad Lab 6th Birthday

2010-08-22T15:15:00.008-05:00

What better way to turn 6 years old than with a Mad Lab party complete with ooooeeeyyy, goooeeeyyy slime and test tube experiments! Harlan had a blast at his birthday party. He had so many friends join him in his mad lab and that is what he enjoyed the most - celebrating with lots of friends. Kids came with crazy mad-scientist hair.

Doctors were greeted at the door with mad lab coats, lab goggles, and mad science kit. First everyone had to make an alien out of play-doh and googly-eyes AND they had to name their aliens. We had names from "Slimy" to "Fred."

Then the kiddos made their way to the test tube concoctions. They took eye droppers and made their own potions (different colored Gatorade juices). Everyone loved this project. They especially loved when they had to drink what they made.

Then, on their way to the "Dancing Spaghetti" station. Well, I think think most of them just enjoyed pouring vinegar and baking soda together rather than see tiny pieces of spaghetti moving in the test tube. Some of them had about 1/2 cup of baking soda and the experiment only required a couple teaspoons. Oh well, they had fun.

Then, we watched as Daddy Rich tried to suck a hard-boiled egg through the opening of an empty Starbucks bottle. First, he had a tough time keeping the matches lit inside the bottle (which kept the kiddos laughing), then after Mr. Rob's help, Rich was able to turn a hard-boiled egg into a sooted hard-boiled egg in a jar!

Then, we made balloons move with static electricity which only kept the kids occupied for about 2 minutes. Then, it was time to move outside for the grand finale. The Diet Coke and Mentos explosion outside. Well, you might call it a small fountain that lasted a 1/2 second but it was another segment to keep the kids entertained.

After cake and lots of presents - Harlan's birthday guests were ready to share their experiments with their families. I believe Brennan is still making test tube concoctions at his house.

Enjoy the photos:

Harlan in New Mexico

2010-07-30T16:51:00.004-05:00

Harlan just recently got back from his 2-1/2 week trip to New Mexico. Karen's sister Janet and mom picked him up around the 4th of July and headed back with two 5-yr. old boys in the back seat. Harlan had so much fun on his adventures with his cousin Mikey. They hiked in the mountains, slid down the dunes at White Sands National Monument, saw a 3-D movie, played in the pool and parks countless times and many more adventures which I'm sure I'll hear more about as the year goes on. I hear something about New Mexico just about every day since he has been back. They look a little too natural holding these guns (above) don't they!? Mikey is on the left and Harlan is on the right.

Thank you Grandma, Grandpa and Auntie Janet for taking care of my boy. We really missed having him home but so glad that he will remember this trip forever!

Some bluegrass in the Park

2010-06-16T12:57:00.004-05:00

We had a wonderful weekend as a family. We were treated Thursday night with a picnic on the boat. Rich treated us with homemade sandwiches, cantaloupe and fresh-from-the-oven cookies. We found a not-so-windy spot on the lake, anchored the boat and relaxed as we ate dinner just before we went fishing. Rich caught the biggest bass he has every caught before and Harlan and I got a few small ones. We love fishing! Harlan wants to go all of the time.

On Saturday evening, we found a bluegrass event at Old Prairie Town called Wheatstock. They had local bluegrass musicians playing for about 4-5 songs all day long. We just pulled up some chairs and watched it. Every once in a while, we made our way to the back of the park to get out of the sun and Karen found a hidden treasure of Topeka. This beautiful garden was the perfect backdrop to take some photos.

Hope you enjoy them.

Harlan - The Kindergarten Graduate and Ready for Summer in New Mexico

2010-06-07T12:32:00.007-05:00

So, Harlan has now completed Kindergarten and here is his diploma. Woohoo! Harlan!

He seemed to like school but most of all recess time. Although he will always be the youngest in his class, he seemed to catch on to things well. I spoke to one of the room helpers and she said that Harlan was a really good listener especially during story time. Harlan loves when we read him a book and we are faithful at reading to him at least once a day since the day he was born. When he wants to, he can sound-out and read just about any word. I am so proud of him and I'm amazed how far he has come. At the beginning of the year, he struggled to even write his name and NOW he recognizes site words and tries to spell out words wonderfully!

Here is what he wrote on his last project of what he is going to do this summer.

I love the "kid writing." : )

(Interpretation: "I will go to New Mexico. Harlan")

Shelby's 2nd Birthday

2010-05-27T12:53:00.003-05:00

We celebrated Shelby's birthday a few days after her actual birthday because we wanted our good friends and their kiddos to be there and they have crazy shifts. We couldn't really have the party at our house because we were ripping out some awful carpet and tile flooring in our bathroom so we thought guests wouldn't want to use the bathroom outside! Just trying to be thoughtful and all! Soooo, our wonderful friends, The Fishers, invited us to have the party at their place. They are so good to us. So here is Shelby, the princess, posing with Daddy and enjoying her special gifts from special family and friends.

Mother's Day 2010

2010-05-10T11:53:00.005-05:00

I spent a great weekend with my family. On Friday, when I came home from work, I was handed my first Mother's Day gift from Harlan. Here it is:

For those of you that don't have the knack yet of reading "kid writing," it reads:

From Harlan

To Mom and Dad

It is lax Day (meaning "it is relax day")

I asked him if I could use this for Saturday instead of Friday since I just got home from a long day at work and wanted to start over on the relaxing stuff. He thought that was a pretty good idea.

On Saturday, Harlan and Daddy went fishing on the boat with our pastor and Shelby and I spent the day shopping and going to an event at the park with the Fisher Family.

On Sunday, Rich had to work but the day was so relaxing while the kids and I watched movies all afternoon! Harlan has now started a tradition and Mother's Day is now "Movie and Mother's Day." I'm looking forward to that for years to come.

Happy Mother's Day to everyone.

Easter 2010

2010-04-05T19:50:00.007-05:00

So here is Harlan and Shelby on Easter day 2010. I had to take them to the park at the lake to take lots of pictures of them in their fancy clothes before I make them change into their play clothes. Shelby seems to prefer to run around bare-naked these days. Thank you Grandpa and Grandma Harris for the pretty purple dress. Thank you Grandma Josselyn for Shelby's pretty white shoes.

By the way, I managed to make a few of Shelby

's words out on Saturday and it was "poddy" as she was tugging at her britches and pointing to the bathroom. I did as she asked and the britches came off, set her on the "poddy" and a few minutes later, I heard the sweet sounds of trickling. It was a great Saturday. Our daughter wants to go potty before she even turns two! (I did take a picture of her going potty for the first time but I won't embarrass you and post it).

I just love these pictures and had to share...

Proud Family

2010-02-24T08:19:00.003-06:00

We are excited to announce that Muddle had five healthy baby kitties last night. Muddy is a good mom and so far is glowing with pride.

Although we are happy to have new additions to our family, I would still preach to spay and neuter your puppies and kitties. There are too many animals without homes and I am one of those that didn't get Muddle spayed in time. You can bet that I will get this done as soon as I can.

Winter 2009/2010

2010-02-01T12:46:00.006-06:00

So we need to update the blog since Christmas has passed! I've been itching to post photos from our trip to New Mexico (Karen's home state). We haven't been home in three years so it was good to see family and friends but we ran out of time and couldn't see everyone. We tried so hard! Anyway, enjoy the photos from the trip.

Here is Grandpa H. with his grandsons, Mikey and Harlan. Grandpa was trying to get his ancient projector working so we can show old movies of us. We got a few going but we'll try again when Grandpa gets the old 8mm onto DVDs!!! Hint, hint Grandpa!

Harlan jammin' out! Former member of KISS.

Grandma J. and Shelby

Here is Shelby, Harlan and their cousin, Mikey.

Forget gifts, there was a box laying around!

Harlan was amazed at the mountains. He, of course, doesn't remember seeing the mountains when he was two so we thought it was so cool that we were going through the mountains and a tunnel. We are standing near a tunnel in the mountain here. Karen has many memories going through this tunnel to play in the snow and go camping. There is an entry point where you can walk down the canyon here.

Karen had her first helicopter ride with our good friend Spencer. He recently became a helicopter pilot trainer and took us up for a surprise ride. I had such a blast! By the way, Spencer can give you a ride too. Just contact me and I'll send you his info. What an amazing experience! This is a corner of my hometown by the way.

Well, I have a lot more photos to share from the trip but I'll won't overwhelm you all at once. I'll leave you with this sweet photo of the kiddos taken in Jan. 2010.

Be sure to comment if you like any of these. We would love to know if our family and friends is reading this. Take care.

Merry Christmas

2009-12-10T16:55:00.004-06:00

Merry Christmas Everyone!

Rich Wins Award

2009-11-11T11:51:00.005-06:00

I'm proud to announce that Rich has received an award at an awards banquet held on Saturday, November 7, 2009, for a C.P.R. Save on a Shawnee Heights Fire Department call that he arrived to on-scene earlier this year. I thought I would put up the initial posting hoping that he will fill in the details later as he is modest and probably let the world know that I married a hero. Congratulations Babe - you are my hero too.

I try not to think about the dangers of your job or the stre

ss and skill it takes to save a life but just know that I do think about those things and how much it means to me that you do what you do for others.... and that is what I'm proud of.

Here's a photo of us at the banquet. I love my handsome guy in a uniform. And, yes, that is an actual Kansas sunset that evening (looking out the window - lake reflection) and not just a painting on the wall.

Trick or Treat

2009-11-02T12:06:00.005-06:00

Grant, Nate & Spidey (Harlan)!

Dog & Beth - Bounty Hunters (The Oettings)

The Moore's

You should have seen the tats

Momdusa & Harlan

Ally Fisher & Shelby

The Fishers

Sheriff Daddy & Shelby

Time has flown

2009-09-22T20:53:00.005-05:00

I know that's no news to anyone else. But I was just looking a couple nights ago and realized just how long it's been since we posted. Shame on us. Lot's of activity on this end. I will try to put it all in a short story for you. Versus a novel. Here we go.

We'll start with Harlan. He is now five years old. He in in kindergarten. He is loving school. Gets to ride the school bus like a big boy. He is a very good big brother. We are very lucky he is that way with Shelby. He started playing soccer this year. He seems to be liking it pretty well. Neither I nor Karen know much of anything about it outside the fact that there is a black and white ball, a couple goals and 6 little boys running around kicking said ball. It's just fun for me to watch him run up and down the field. Saturday he scored two goals! Every once in a while you have to remind him to stop trying to talk and worry about playing ball. It doesn't take him very long to make a new buddy despite how shy he may seem on the surface.

Moving on to Shelby. She is growing up very fast. Expanding her vocabulary a little more everyday. She has 'no' down. And pretty much knows how to use it. She came up with her first ear infection of the fall week before last. So her pediatrician lined us up with an ENT doc. Long story short she goes in tomorrow morning to get ear tubes put in. I know that it's a relatively common procedure these days. But still. I'm sure that she will come through it just fine. She is not going to like not getting her milk first thing in the morning like she's used to. My bet is she will be quite the bear.

We have a regular little egg factory out back. We are averaging around 10 eggs a day. I have already sold a couple dozen at work. Not trying to make a bunch of money. But we can't give them away. That would make us look like pushovers. But all the reviews I have gotten back have been good. The hogs are coming along fine. One goes to slaughter next week. The other two go the first Monday of November. I am definitely looking forward to tasting that pork.
Well, there you have it. Hopefully the next posting won't be so far down the road.

Shelby's Dandelion

2009-07-27T13:48:00.005-05:00

I must add this cute photo of Shelby. She was all dressed up and nowhere to go this day. She was pointing at all the flowers and I didn't know what words she was trying to say but her sweet voice would go up and down as if she knew exactly what she was talking about.

She giggled when mommy picked up this dandelion and blew the seeds in the wind.

I just love this photo of her in pretty outfit and curly blonde hair. My beautiful princess.

Watermelon Heads

2009-07-27T13:37:00.005-05:00

Here is Harlan and his cousin, Mikey. The first photo was taken last summer and the second photo was taken this year. I love the comparison and to see how much they have grown and both are a little more tan, I might add. They seem to be growing out of their baby faces a little. Mikey didn't really want to finish his watermelon but he hung in there for a few photos taken by Auntie Karen. Harlan and Mikey had a great time again this year. They played in the pool, treehouse and Mikey and Aunt Janet were here for the annual 4th of July Watson BBQ party. We really miss them around but I'm hoping this will be an annual visit...especially around 4th of July time. Hopefully, more family and friends will be able to join us next year.

Shelby Kate's 1st Birthday

2009-06-02T12:34:00.007-05:00

Shelby's 1st birthday was a beautiful Saturday evening with balloons, cake with bright pink icing, lots of kids & families and great fun. Shelby really enjoyed her very own cupcake and Muddle, our kitten, ate every last bit of pieces that fell to the floor. I didn't know kittens loved icing. Thanks to all near and far that helped Shelby celebrate her first year of her life. The little diva loves all of her pretty little dresses and her wardrobe is complete for the summer for sure!

She is walking now and her first 2 words were "thank you" and "uh-oh." She says da-da now too but no ma-ma yet. She doesn't have to say it, she sends telepathic messages to me... or is that crying message until I pick her up. Yes, she is still rotten and wants to be held by mama. I have tried to not carry her around but I get a little monkey that hangs on my leg or I trip over her because she is always by my side... I mean always! I have to sneak in house just to go to the bathroom when I get home from work so I can be in there by myself. Oh, the joys to be so loved.

I had to share these pictures. Big brother is always so good to his sissy and watches out for her often. He gets a sweeet high voice when he talks to her and usually says "watcha doin girl!" in that high voice.

We have another party coming up for those that will be in the area on the 4th of July. Come out and shoot fireworks, bring your family and enjoy some food and fun at the annual Watson 4th of July. Here is a sneak peak of the country bumpkins ready to celebrate!

New life on the farm

2009-04-12T07:04:00.004-05:00

Easter weekend saw an influx of new life on the 'farm'. At least we can use that word now that we have more than just a cat and dog.

Friday evening we brought home our chickens. I wanted Road Island Red's, but due to some logistical issues at the feed store, all they had was a straight run batch (mixture of male/female birds). We only wanted pullets for laying eggs. So we chose Buff Orpingtons. They are a heritage breed brought over from England way back when. We brought home 20 of them. The theory is that not all will survive to adulthood.

Next weekend we will go get our hogs. We are going to raise 3 feeder hogs this year. They are Duroc/Hampshire cross. One is for us, one is to trade for beef with my Fire Chief. He raises Angus cattle. I hadn't planned on three initially, but a couple guys at work asked if I would raise one for them to split. So......

And last but not least, Mommy got a new kitten. Sharon, the kids daycare provider's cat had kittens. I new that Karen wanted another one. I had let her know that I wanted one of the females early on. But she couldn't let Karen in on it. The whole time, Karen was working on me to convince me to get one. But I wasn't letting on to her about my plans. So last Thursday, we brought Muddle (name picked by Karen) home. So far Daisy, the older cat, hasn't quite warmed up to her. Give her time I think. Either she will or she won't but at least when Muddle gets a little older, she will be able to hold her own. This is the first time since Karen and I have been together that we've had a cat with a color other than all or almost all gray.

So, it's going to be a busy Spring getting up to speed on all the animals, especially the chickens and hogs. I have to admit on the chickens I didn't do all the homework I could or should have. I had my mind set on the red's. When we had to choose another breed, it was a last minute pick. So once we had them home I did a little Googling on the ones we chose. The biggest thing that we took note of was the potential egg production from these birds. On the average each chicken will lay 2-3 eggs per week. If only 15 chickens live to start egg production, we could be looking at around 35 eggs per week. The information I had on the Reds indicated that if we wanted a dozen eggs/week, we would want 15 birds. So there you have it. After looking at the potential number of eggs from these birds, we figured that we wouldn't have much problem selling fresh eggs to people at work.

We will keep you up to date on the animals and life here on the farm.

Girls Weekend Cut Short

2009-03-31T12:21:00.003-05:00

I was looking forward to this past weekend for a long time. Shelby and I were scheduled to fly up to Seattle to see my sister Janet and Mom last Thursday and would you believe that there was basically a blizzard in Denver (my connection) that caused the cancellation to SOME flights to Denver. I say SOME flights because mom was able to fly from Albuquerque to Denver then back out of Denver to Seattle the very same day. In fact, I was supposed to sit right next to her on the Denver to Seattle flight. You may be already confused, but basically, Shelby and I didn't get to Seattle until mid-afternoon on Friday. We lost an entire day of our short weekend fun. BUT we made our short time worthwhile and all of us had a fun and memorable time this past weekend. We didn't even have time to tour Seattle but we spent all of Saturday at Whidbey Island. The Navy has provided my sister a beautiful brand new home. Wow - they have come a long way since the old concrete block homes that they used to build. I don't think they even put carpet in the older base housing. She is one lucky gal to get such a great house. Shelby warmed up to mom and her auntie quickly. She still preferred to be in mommy's arms whenever she got away with it though. Grandma loved seeing how big Shelby has grown up since she last saw her when she was born. Grandma provided lots of entertainment for her granddaughter while sis and I decorated the house and just laughed and hung out. Mom and I tortured my sister and drug her to an antique shop and a thrift shop. She hated every minute of it and begged mom and I to leave. How can you hate shopping? I don't get it.

Anyway, Janet now has a refreshing new

look courtesy of her big sis. Do we look alike or what? Sorry sis - this is what you'll look like when you are 32. See what you have to look forward too. Actually, if we both age as good as mom and grandma have, we will be doing great.

Daddy and Harlan seemed to have a great time while we were gone. They were sure to kick the wild girls out of the house and clean up their party mess before we came home Sunday. It was SO NICE to come home to a clean house by the way. Thanks honey - I love you.

Daddy can write more about his weekend with Harlan later. I will post more recent pictures of the kids soon. Post your comments and let us know if you are staying update with the us.

Quick update

2009-02-26T14:55:00.003-06:00

Wish I had something really new and exciting to post. Unfortunately, I don't.

The last couple of weeks has seen everyone in our house sick. Two weeks ago it was the kids and Mommy who had a belly bug that kept them down for a couple days. Of course, I had to rub it in that I didn't get it. Now I am getting what was coming to me. I don't think it's the same thing they had, but it did send me home early from work today. Mostly so I didn't get everyone at work sick too. I am pretty certain that the weather around here contributed to whatever I have come down with. The outside temp's are up and down. Typical late winter/early spring stuff.

I do have a couple pictures that I wanted to put in here to keep everyone up to speed on the kids and how fast they are growing.

That's pretty much it for now. More later.

Name that Tune

2009-01-23T06:14:00.004-06:00

Once again I am amused and somewhat baffled by the way that our son (and I am sure many other 4-5 year olds) view their big world. We were on our way home from town the other evening. Shelby was getting a little frustrated from being in her seat for most of the evening. So in an effort to try and mask (read as drown out) the volume of the crying I had turned up the radio. There was a George Strait song on at that moment. Mommy asked Harlan if he knew who was singing. Of course he didn't, so she told him. That song ended and just as we were about to turn up the drive, Johnny Cash's Ring of Fire came on. So I asked Harlan if he knew who was singing now. He of course replied with "I don't know". I said "Johnny Cash". Harlan repeated that, then asked "Who's that?" So I tried to quickly explain. And I finished up with the fact that Johnny Cash had died. So Harlan said "He died?" I said "yes, he did." So of course, what's the next question he asks? Very simply...."So if he died, how is he singing that song?"

I never cease to be amazed.

Gettin' Jiggy

2009-01-19T12:53:00.005-06:00

Harlan came down the stairs looking like this the other day. He had a cowboy hat from a costume on and his "handsome" clothes on that he is obsessed with wearing these days. He insists that he is having a dance party and wants to wear his suits and ties every day (thanks Auntie Janet). This particular day, he looked like we stepped into the 19th century. I told him to dance a jig... and HE DID. Gotta love kid's obsessions. (Sorry that the video is sideways.)

Funny Phrase Time from a Four-Year-Old

2009-01-10T10:00:00.000-06:00

It was a typical chaotic morning exit from the house one day this week. Shelby was crying and didn't want to be let down so that I could finish getting ready, give medicine to the kids and gather stuff to head out the door. Harlan woke up on the wrong side of the world (as daddy puts it). He didn't want to brush his teeth or get dressed and definitely didn't want to go to daycare that day for some unknown reason. I looked at Harlan's pitiful and pouty face and asked him what was wrong. I knew that he was having a bad morning and he just didn't want to do anything or go anywhere. He looked at me and said "I have a sutsky attitude." Not sure where he has heard this phase but after I could hold back my giggle, he looked up and smiled back.

I would love to hear your kiddo's tongue twisters and funny phrases. Let me know your favorites.

An Old Fashioned Christmas

2009-01-01T21:02:00.000-06:00

It was just the four of us this year. We spent Christmas in our cozy home. Daddy was up sometime way before dawn and mommy thought she heard one of the kids get up so she sprang out of bed and rushed downstairs as she hoped not to miss the wonderful surprised looks on her babies' faces. She got downstairs only to find daddy not-so-patiently waiting for the kids to get up. He was pacing as he waited for his boy to finally come downstairs at a unusually late time of 8:00 am. Shelby was up soon after. Harlan didn't ask for any particular item this year but he was happy to see his pile of treasures left by the man in the big red suit and family and friends. Grandparents, Auntie Janet and cousin Mikey gave the kids lots of clothes, treasures from Europe, a LeapPad and too much more to mention. Harlan was excited to find that Santa left him a kid version of a digital camera (he always wants to use mommy's), lots of dress-up costumes for a knight, a police officer, a wizard, a king, a cowboy complete with chaps, and Indiana Jones which looks more like a leather biker jacket He also found toy guns and swords under the tree, Operation (game), Twister (which he spun the wheel as mom & dad played). You really need to be in shape to play that game. Yoga has not prepared me for it.

We and thankful for all of the goodies from everyone (thank you Great Grandma Hendryx for sending the sweets especially Karen's favorite 7-layer cookie bars) and we were excited to see so many Christmas cards this year and lots with update letters and family photos. It is so good to hear from everyone even if it is one time a year. Please keep them coming. Karen almost can't wait to get te mail each day this time of year.

It snowed a few days after Christmas and Harlan rushed out to catch the huge snowflakes on his tongue. Here he is plopping down to make a snow angel. Press the play button to watch the video now. Don't miss the ending!

Catching snowflakes on his tongue...

Here is our little Snow Puff.

Here, Mommy and Shelby are getting ready to go to a Christmas party. Shelby was a little Christmas angel in her red suit with tights and built-in shoes.

We took Harlan sledding this week just after a light snow and his favorite "sled" was a piece of wall paneling that someone left at the top of the hill. Forget the expensive sleds, Harlan is just fine going down the hill on roadside junk! He gets that from his daddy. I guess it is good that we have two penny pinchers in the house because Mommy and Shelby counter their efforts.

Harlan's Redneck Sled

We hope that you had a Merry Christmas and that you spent it with family and friends. My motto this year is a cliche but so meaningful and that is... to enjoy the simple things in life. We are healthy, we have two beautiful and healthy kiddos, we live out in the country surrounded by trees, crops and cattle and we still have our jobs. What more should we ever want?

Days Off

2008-12-31T15:44:00.000-06:00

Nice to have days off from work but not so nice when you have 2 sick kids, a messy house and hopes to finish painting the kitchen floor. We took Harlan and Shelby in to express care last night because Harlan complained of an earache and Shelby was just miserable with coughing, wheezing and lots of sniffles. Turns out Harlan has his 2nd earache ever occuring only about a month from his last one and Shelby tested pos. for RSV (a virus) that start as a cold and doesn't get better fast. We just need to let it run its course.

So I had both kiddos at home while I still managed to paint the kitchen floor. We decided to pull up the very old vinyl tile floor that was crumbling apart and just temporarily paint the floor until we, someday, remodel the whole kitchen. It is turning out nice and a much better surface for Shelby to crawl on. By the way, she is getting around still by extending her arms and dragging her legs. Once in a while, she will get on all fours and crawl. Although she is not feeling good, she still seems to turn up a smile and giggle with evey tickle. Our kids our troopers and we are so grateful to have 2 wonderful kiddos.

Pics/video of Christmas coming soon.

Harlan & Vanna White

2008-12-20T13:04:00.000-06:00

Another cute moment from Harlan.... Lately Harlan has been pointing out pretty girls and not shy about telling them. Last night, we were waiting for supper to be ready and the Wheel of Fortune was on TV. We caught the tail end of the show and Harlan said "she's pretty" referring to Vanna White. Little did he know that she is WAY too old for him. Anyway, at the end of the show, Vanna was talking to Pat Sajak (sp?) and Harlan looks at me with a puzzled look on his face and said... "she talks?" I guess he thought that Vanna was just a pretty girl that spun letters around and never said a word. My little observant boy.

December!! Already??

2008-12-02T15:48:00.000-06:00

Wow! We made it past Thanksgiving doing just fine. It's already December and before you know it Santa will be sliding down the chimney! But I don't have everything done that I wanted to get done yet. And the forecast for tomorrow doesn't sound like much fun either. Mostly just yucky roads. Which is okay, if you don't have to drive on 'em.

Thought I would include this picture of Harlan. Amazing how much he has changed since May when it was taken. He is being such a great big brother. I know I am very proud of him.

Saturday Morning

2008-11-22T07:41:00.001-06:00

Harlan and I were sitting down stairs, me at the computer and he was watching cartoons on TV. No, not the cartoons I grew up with. But this commercial for the Kung Foo Panda comes on. He says "Daddy, I want the Kung Foo Panda, but I want the DVD." So I ask him, "Harlan, what's a DVD?" and he replies "Hmm, I don't know." So, I can rest a little easier knowing that for the moment we are still fairly safe from being overrun by technology and a four year old. But it won't be long.

Need to get to work on the house. In the process of digging the holes for the spot footers to set the jacks in the crawlspace to start leveling the west side of this old house. I have been avoiding it like the plague, but it needs to be done. Until I get that done, no work can begin on that side of the house. I was able to get down about 18" while digging, but then had problems getting farther. Doesn't help that I have to lay on my belly while digging. I can't get much leverage to sink the blade of the shovel in the dirt any farther. The bottom of the spot footer has to be 30" down (frost line). One suggestion I had was to try to use an auger bit on a drill to loosen the dirt, then remove the dirt. I am going to try that.

Well, more later.

Sneaky mom

2008-11-20T20:33:00.000-06:00

Shelby had her 6 month check up today. She is textbook perfect, 75% in everything, 16+ oz. and 25.75". She got 3 vaccine's today plus the flu vaccine. Her cry was so strong that she didn't even breathe during the 2nd set of shots in her little, michelin legs. I took Harlan with me and Shelby as he thought he was just along for the ride and avoiding going to daycare. He had NO idea that he was going to get a shot. Sneaky mom I am, you have to try any tactic to cause the least drama as possible. The nurse told Harlan to drop his drawers and we sat him on the table. I still don't think he had a clue what was going on. I think he thought they were just going to take a look at his "itchy stuff" (which is his ezcema). Then the nurse instructed me to hold his hands, she told him to look at me but at that point, he figured it out! The shot was coming and there was no escape. He screamed! After it was done, I scooped him up as he was crying while Shelby gave me the dirtiest look because I was holding him instead of her. I felt horrible that I had to be sneaky. He will never trust me again! I think from this point on, he will not complain about going to daycare.

She Made Me Do It!

2008-11-19T20:41:00.000-06:00

Okay, so here I am....Sitting looking at our blog....And "she" says, 'You know you can post too!'. So I am going to do just that.

What we have here ladies and gentlemen is a fine piece of equipment. A brand spankin' new Ford F-550/Pierce Light Duty Rescue. I won't tell you what it cost Uncle Sam, but I'm glad that I didn't have to buy it. If that was the case, then we would be driving something that is a cross between the Beverly Hillbillies and Fred Sanford's truck.

Now, I realize many of you (read as everyone but me) could really give a rat's behind about this truck. That's okay. Many people have no taste for the finer things in life. I forgive those that fit that category. Maybe someday you can change that. But for now.....

Seriously....I just wanted to see if this would work. More fun later! :)

Inchworm

2008-11-19T12:28:00.000-06:00

Here is one of Shelby's first attempts at trying to crawl on Sunday, Nov. 16, 2008. She is not much into rolling around from place to place but instead, she moves like an inchworm. Here is a short clip of her on her hands and knees rockin' and ready to take off anyday!

Proud of My Little Brother

2008-11-07T15:15:00.000-06:00

I am now officially the proud sister of a Structural Engineer! It is about time Markie! My little brother has worked long and hard for his Master's degree and the day has finally arrived. He just called me a few hours ago to tell me the great news. I still brag about my brainy brother (and sister for that matter) all of the time. They are the smarter of the siblings. I just make pretty things while they make the big bucks. Proud of you little bro! I'll start on your announcement cards soon.

I Ain't Afraid of No Ghosts

2008-11-07T15:08:00.001-06:00

This is Harlan and my nephew Mikey from this summer. Ya - the one on the right, I swear he used to live in another era - the 80's! He LOVES Ghostbusters. Remember that moving with Slimer, Stay Puff Marshmellow Man and the 5 Ghostbusters? He is obsessed with Ghostbusters complete with the Halloween costumer and forwarding the movie to the Stay Puff Marshmellow man chapter and watching it over and over again. He wants the Ghostbuster car for Christmas. Anyone know where to find one? I hope he is thinking the toy car. The things that our kids are obsessed with. Mikey - a true 80's kid. That's Rad! I'm a proud Auntie!

Sissy's debut

2008-11-07T14:52:00.001-06:00

Teeth haven't popped in yet but I'm sure they are coming. Shelby has been chomping on everything and puckering and sucking on her lips. I'm sure we'll see signs of a tooth in the next week or so. Something is making her more fussy than usual. I thought this was the age that babies don't cry so much. Well...let me tell you, the books are wrong! Shelby has demonstrated that cute baby girls can cry more at 5 months than when they were born!

AND, she is a bit spoiled and I have no idea why. She likes to be held. I know that every mother says that but you can't even bend over holding her without her screaming thinking that you will put her on the dreaded carpet, blanket, stand-up play thing or anywhere other than your arms (particularly mommy's arms). I would rather hold her than hear her scream. I'm just not ready to deal with the drama of not holding her. Look at her - who wouldn't want to snuggle her!

Kid update

2008-11-07T14:41:00.000-06:00

This is my little 4 year old. He wanted to be Joker this year. Gone are the days of cute little animal costumes. I guess I always have my little girl to dress up for a year or two. Her ear infection made it impossible to put her through the misery of dressing her up for Halloween. I am determined to make a chicken costume for one of my kids. I have already purchased the white boa for the feathers about 3 years ago. You just wait, Shelby will be a chicken next year before she starts having an opinion. Well...she already has one but she can't argue back for very long right now.

Both the kids are on antibiotics right now. Shelby for her first ear infection and Harlan for impetigo (contagious skin rash). Harlan had never had an ear infection so this was my first experience at it. What a horrible thing for a kiddo to go through. I pray that this isn't the start of more trouble with multiple ear infections. You hear so many horror stories.

On a lighter note.... Rich is now a Shriner. If you are not familiar with this organization, they are usually known in the community to help children's burn and orthopedic hospitals. They are also know to wear those big red hats with tassels and ride the mini motorcycles in parades. Rich hasn't chosen which unit he wants to join but he will probably stick with something that is a little less flashy. Legion of Honor is more his style. He can quietly carry the flags in parades. I am now a Shrine Lady and proud. The organization has many older members so they need younger blood to help out with the many things they do. I didn't realize how many until I attended the Fall ceremony with Rich a few weeks ago.

What have I started?

2008-08-20T21:20:00.000-05:00

Okay. With my friend Megan's great blog for inspiration, I've decided to start one on my own. ALL, I mean ALL of our friends and family live out of state so this is a great way that I can express creativity and accomplishing updates on our lives. What have I started? I guess this is something that I'll have to keep up. I'm not witty nor am I a comic but I hope you will smile from time to time after reading about our lives in the land of Oz. I'll start adding my graphic design touch as soon as I take the time to figure out all that this has to offer. Enjoy and come back soon.