In memory...

Today we had my Uncle Clint's (a.k.a. Uncle Buck) memorial service. It was very nice. I would guess there were over 300 people there so that was a wonderful tribute to him and all the lives he affected. Here's a little slideshow I put together. There aren't too many photos, but I used what I had...

Nolan's birthday

On Saturday afternoon the kids were invited to a birthday party for Abigail's "boyfriend" Nolan. It was held at Parasol Arts in Ferndale. This is such a neat little place. The kids are able to pick a ceramic item to paint, then its fired at the shop, and we can pick it up in about a week. There were eight kids there and they had a fabulous time.

J.T. picked an old-fashioned truck that's actually a piggy bank. He painted it (yes, you guessed it) John Deere green and yellow!

Abigail picked an ice cream cone where the ice cream and cone come apart. Then you can put something inside the cone. Here's she's painting the ice cream...

Abigail is already asking when we can go back!

Branding

We went to Clint and Christina's branding on Saturday. It was a beautiful day... I even got a little sunburned!

J.T. was very excited to ride Joker...

And then he got to help brand a calf...

And hang out with his buddy Caleb... look at them brim to brim...

Abigail played with August and Isaac. They spent quite a bit of time hunting for frogs...

All the boys got in there and helped on the last calf...

Here's Clint and his helpers...

Swimming lessons are done

J.T. had his last swimming lesson on Friday afternoon and I am pretty sure he's glad they are done. He isn't really scared of the water, but he just doesn't seem very comfortable with it. Here's a few pictures from the last lesson....





We'll probably try to do another set of lessons this summer...

It's been a rough few days....

We've had a rough few days in our family and community. On Thursday evening, a long-time friend of my dad's, Roger Rodoni, was killed in a car accident. It wasn't a couple hours later and we found out my Uncle Clint (a.k.a. Uncle Buck) passed away due to a heart attack. What a shock it was for all of us.

I have been wanting to do a blog post but didn't really know how to put my feelings into words... I still don't really. The kids do know about my uncle (my dad's brother). J.T. has been full of questions about heaven and how you get there. He's also been asking a lot about who's going to drive Uncle Buck's big blue truck (he was a truck driver). From everything I have heard and read, we should let him ask the questions and we should try to answer them. I have been doing that but I find myself saying "I don't know the answer to that" more often that being able to answer the question. I guess this is probably normal. Abigail hasn't really said or asked much. She did tell her teacher on Friday that her great uncle died the night before.

My uncle's memorial service will be on Tuesday morning so please keep us all in your prayers as we say good-bye...

Wild about Webkinz

Last weekend my kids each received a Webkinz stuffed animal. They are just nuts about these things. For those of you that don't know what they are, you can "adopt" your pet online with a special code found on the tag of the stuffed animal. Then you can do all kinds of activities with your pets online. You can feed them, take them to the doctor, bathe them, buy them things, etc. It's a really neat interactive site that is fun for the kids. We have been letting the kids earn time on the computer (with our supervision) by being good. Check out the Webkinz site if you want too....

Challenges

I truly believe that everything happens for a reason, even if I am not able to understand the reason at the time. But that doesn't keep me from asking why, why, why?

We have some wacky stuff happening in our real estate business right now. I know that it's just part of the deal to have challenges (especially with rental properties, tenants, etc), but it can be very frustrating. Some things are within our control and some aren't. Some are challenges that are turning into opportunities... some are just things to be dealt with.

I feel pretty confident that everything will work out, but I am the type of person that wants to fix things RIGHT NOW! You won't meet a more impatient person than me.... just ask Andy....

There's not a big point to this post.... just some random thoughts at 5 p.m. on a Tuesday afternoon...

A to Z about me

[A] - Available? nope, happily married

[B] - Birthday? March 18

[C] - Crushing? nah

[D] - Drink You Last Had? mexican hot chocolate

[E] - Easiest Person To Talk To? depends on the subject

[F] - Favorite Color(s)? chocolate brown

[G] - Gummy Bears Or Gummy Worms? either one, prefer the sour kind

[H] - Heart? yes, I have one! :)

[I] - Favorite Ice Cream? don't really have one

[J] - A word/phrase u say very often? do I have to keep repeating myself?

[K] - Killed someone? weird question, um no

[L] - Lime or lemonade? either one, not too sour and not too sweet

[M] - Love or Money? a little of both is good

[N] - Number Of Siblings? 1 sister

[o]- one wish? to simplify our business stuff

[P] - Person you last commented? Julie

[Q] - Quiet? sometimes

[R] - Reason you smile? because J.T. is a goofball

[S] - Song You Last Heard? "Party like a rock star" on the radio

[T] - Time you woke up today? 5 a.m. because J.T. came into our room

[U] - Underwear color? black

[V] - Vegetables? yes, I like most of them

[W] - Worst Habit? being judgemental

[X] - X rays had? only the dental kind

[Y] - Your Number Of Friends On Myspace? maybe 25.... don't spend much time there.

[Z]-Zodiac Sign? Pisces

Anyone else want to repost??

What's your birth number?

Anyone know which number I am (without cheating)? Leave me a comment and tell me what your 'number' is...

Our Birth Date describes who we are, what we are good at, and what our inborn abilities are. It also points to what we have to learn and the challenges we are facing. To figure out your Birth Number, add all the numbers in your Birth Date together, like in the following example, until there is only one digit.

A Birth Number does not prevent you from being anything you want to be, it will just color your choice differently and give you a little insight.

Example: March 20, 1950

3 + 20 + 1950 = 1973
1 + 9 + 7 + 3 = 20
2 + 0 = 2

Keep going until you end up with a single digit number.
2 is the Birth Number to read for the Birth Date in the example.

#1 THE ORIGINATOR
#2 THE PEACEMAKER
#3 THE LIFE OF THE PARTY
#4 THE CONSERVATIVE
#5 THE NONCONFORMIST
#6 THE ROMANTIC
#7 THE INTELLECTUAL
#8 THE BIG SHOT
#9 THE PERFORMER

# 1 - THE ORIGINATOR - 1's are originals. Coming up with new ideas and executing them is natural. Having things their own way is another trait that gets them labeled as being stubborn and arrogant. 1's are extremely honest. They like to take the initiative and are often leaders or bosses. Being self-employed is definitely helpful for them. Lessons to learn: Others' ideas might be just as good or better; and to stay open minded. {Famous 1's - Tom Hanks, Robert Redford, Hulk Hogan, Carol Burnett, Wynona Judd, Nancy Reagan, and Raquel Welch.}

#2 - THE PEACEMAKER - 2's are the born diplomats. They are aware of others' needs and moods and often think of others before themselves. Naturally analytical and very intuitive, they don't like to be alone. Friendship and companionship are very important and can lead them to be successful in life; but, on the other hand, they'd rather be alone than in an uncomfortable relationship. Being naturally shy, they should learn to boost their self-esteem and express themselves freely and seize the moment and not put things off.
{Famous 2's - President Bill Clinton, Madonna, Whoopie Goldberg, Thomas Edison, and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.}

# 3 - THE LIFE OF THE PARTY - 3's are idealists. They are very creative, social, charming, romantic, and easygoing. They start many things but don't always see them through. They like others to be happy and go to great lengths to achieve it. They are very popular and idealistic. They should learn to see the world from a more realistic point of view. {Famous 3's - Alan Alda, Ann Landers, Bill Cosby, Melanie Griffith, Salvador Dali, and Jodi Foster}

# 4 - THE CONSERVATIVE - 4's are sensible and traditional. They like order and routine. They only act when they fully understand what they're expected to do. They like getting their hands dirty and working hard. They are attracted to the outdoors and feel an affinity with nature. They are prepared to wait and can be stubborn and persistent. They should learn to be more flexible and to be nice to themselves.
{Famous 4's - Neil Diamond, Margaret Thatcher, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Tina Turner, Paul Hogan, and Oprah Winfrey}

# 5 - THE NONCONFORMIST - 5's are the explorers. Their natural curiosity, risk taking, and enthusiasm often land them in hot water. They need diversity, and don't like to be stuck in a rut. The whole world is their school and they see a learning possibility in every situation. The questions never stop. They are well advised to look before they take action and make sure they have all the facts before jumping to conclusions.
{Famous 5's - Abraham Lincoln, Charlotte Bronte, Jessic Walter, Vincent Van Gogh, Bette Midler, Helen Keller and Mark Hail.}

# 6 - THE ROMANTIC - 6's are idealistic and need to feel useful to be happy. A strong family connection is important to them. Their actions influence their decisions. They have a strong urge to take care of others and to help. They are very loyal and make great teachers. They like art or music. They make loyal friends who take the friendship seriously. 6's should learn to differentiate between what they can change and what they cannot.
{Famous 6's - Albert Einstein, Jane Seymour, John Denver, Meryl Streep, Christopher Columbus, and Goldie Hawn}

#7 - THE INTELLECTUAL - 7's are the searchers. Always probing for hidden information, they find it difficult to accept things at face value. Emotions don't sway their decisions. Questioning everything in life, they don't like to be questioned themselves. They're never off to a fast start, and their motto is 'slow and steady wins the race.' They come across as philosophers and being very knowledgeable, and sometimes as loners. They are technically inclined and make great researchers uncovering information. They like secrets. They live in their own world and should learn what is acceptable and what is not in the world at large.
{Famous 7's - William Shakespeare, Lucille Ball, Michael Jackson, Joan Baez, Princess Diana, and Vince Ricciardi}

# 8 - THE BIG SHOT - 8's are the problem solvers. They are professional, blunt, and to the point, have good judgment and are decisive. They have grand plans and like to live the good life. They take charge of people. They view people objectively. They should learn to base their decisions on their own needs rather than on what others want.
{Famous 8's - Edgar Cayce, Barbra Streisand, George Harrison, Jane Fonda, Pablo Picasso, Aretha Franklin, and Nostradamus.}

#9 - THE PERFORMER - 9's are natural entertainers. They are very caring and generous, giving away their last dollar to help. With their charm, they have no problem making friends and nobody is a stranger to them. They have so many different personalities that people around them have a hard time understanding them. They are like chameleons, ever changing and blending in. They have tremendous luck, but also can suffer from extremes in fortune and mood. To be successful, they need to build a loving foundation.
{Famous 9s - Albert Schweitzer, Shirley MacLaine, Harrison Ford, Jimmy Carter, and Elvis Presley}

I am a #7. Do you think that fits?

Have you ever...

tried to take a picture of you and someone else by holding the camera out in front of you? I think probably everyone has tried this. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't... Well, check this out! I think this is really cool....

I never knew something like that existed. Here's the website if you want to check it out...

On the way to the bathtub

Last night, for some reason J.T. decided to wear his cowboy hat on the way to the bathtub. Don't ask me why...

And then he decided to stop and try one of the lemons that was left on the table from dinner.... Definitely don't ask me why he did this.... I am not quite sure what is funnier.... J.T. running around naked, except for his cowboy hat, or him deciding to try one of the lemons...

He was obviously in a very goofy mood...

Bake sale

J.T.'s preschool had a bake sale yesterday to raise money for some upcoming field trips and the Mothers Day gifts that the kids make for us. The parents all make things for the bake sale and then we, along with grandparents, friends, community members, and business people, get to go buy things too! The kids all take turns "working" at the sale. I think J.T. had fun although you can't really tell by this picture....


Thank you to the grandparents who either stopped by to buy something or sent a donation. We appreciate it!

How many Sarah Albins do you know?

Can you believe that there are ELEVEN people in the U.S. that have the name Sarah Albin? It's amazing isn't it! Try yours...

HowManyOfMe.com

There are 11 people with my name in the U.S.A. How many have your name?

I got saw this link on the blog of friend of a friend and I think it's pretty amazing!

Swimming lessons

Yesterday we started swimming lessons for J.T. It will be every day (Mon-Fri) for two weeks. He didn't really want to go at first. He just isn't as comfortable in the water as Abigail is. He had a great time, though, and is excited to go back today!

Can you see the uncertainty in his face?

There are three other kids in his class. He told the teacher, "I am going to go last." They grabbed her shoulders and then she helped them practice floating on their stomachs and backs.


I just want him to be comfortable in the water and not be afraid.

Party, party

Yesterday, Abigail had a birthday party to go to for a girl in her class. It was a swimming party and boy was Abigail excited! Didn't get any pictures of that one, though. After we took her, Andy, J.T. and I went to a birthday party for Isaac (Abigail came later). It was at the skating rink.

J.T. had told me that he didn't want to skate, but once we got there he wanted to try it. He had tried it once before and did not like it. He did pretty well. Andy helped him at first. The people who work at the skating rink are able to tighten up the wheels so they don't roll as freely. This was a good thing.


After the skating was done, the kids played sock hockey. It's played with these nerf-type sticks and a ball. J.T. really liked that except he said that he didn't get to hit the ball very often. He got in the middle of it though.

Evan fell asleep sometime in the middle of the party. Abigail wanted to keep an eye on him so she just sat over next to him during the time when the gifts were being opened. Too bad she's probably not going to have the chance to be a big sister again. Guess she'll just have to be a big cousin!

Ahhhh.... springtime!

I just got back from a 3 mile walk and today is absolutely gorgeous! It is supposed to be 75 degrees today and it feels that warm already. Now for those of you not from this area, anytime the temperature reaches 75 degrees, we are nearing a heat wave!

The signs of spring are everywhere.... things in bloom, the smell of fresh cut grass, the sounds of lawn mowers and weed eaters, blue sky with no clouds, and sunshine!! I hope it lasts....

I am so not a landscape photographer, but I wanted to take a picture of this beautiful tree in our yard that blooms every spring. The blooms don't last long, but it sure is pretty while it is here.


Enjoy your Spring!

Why God made moms

I saw this on the internet and thought it was hilarious!

Answers given by 2nd grade school children to the following questions:

Why did God make mothers?
1. She's the only one who knows where the scotch tape is.
2. Mostly to clean the house .
3. To help us out when we were getting born.

How did God make mothers?
1. He used dirt, just like for the rest of us.
2. Magic plus super powers and a lot of stirring.
3. God made my Mom just the same like he made me. He just used bigger parts.

What ingredients are mothers made of ?
1. God makes mothers out of clouds and angel hair and everything nice in the world and one dab of mean.
2. They had to get their start from men's bones. Then they mostly use string, I think.

Why did God give you your mother and not some other mom?
1. We're related.
2. God knew she likes me a lot more than other people's moms like me.

What kind of little girl was your mom?
1. My Mom has always been my mom and none of that other stuff.
2. I don't know because I wasn't there, but my guess would be pretty bossy.
3. They say she used to be nice.

What did mom need to know about dad before she married him?
1. His last name.
2. She had to know his background. Like is he a crook? Does he get drunk on beer?
3. Does he make at least $800 a year? Did he say NO to drugs and YES to chores?

Why did your mom marry your dad?
1. My dad makes the best spaghetti in the world. And my Mom eats a lot.
2. She got too old to do anything else with him.
3. My grandma says that Mom didn't have her thinking cap on.

Who's the boss at your house?
1. Mom doesn't want to be boss, but she has to because dad's such a goof ball.
2. Mom. You can tell by room inspection. She sees the stuff under the bed.
3. I guess Mom is, but only because she has a lot more to do than dad.

What's the difference between moms & dads?
1. Moms work at work and work at home and dads just go to work at work.
2. Moms know how to talk to teachers without scaring them.
3. Dads are taller & stronger, but moms have all the real power 'cause that's who you got to ask if you want to sleep over at your friend's.
4. Moms have magic, they make you feel better without medicine.

What does your mom do in her spare time?
1. Mothers don't do spare time.
2. To hear her tell it, she pays bills all day long.

What would it take to make your mom perfect?
1. On the inside she's already perfect. Outside, I think some kind of plastic surgery.
2. Diet. You know, her hair. I'd diet, maybe blue.

If you could change one thing about your mom, what would it be?
1. She has this weird thing about me keeping my room clean. I'd get rid of that.
2. I'd make my mom smarter. Then she would know it was my sister who did it and not me.
3. I would like for her to get rid of those invisible eyes on the back of her head.

Is this where we are headed?

J.T.'s day

Yesterday, J.T. was able to do several fun things since he wasn't at school. In the morning, we went with Andy to the ranch to check and move the heifers.

He even got to drive the 4wheeler. Andy is actually sitting behind him taking this picture.... Not too bad, huh?

When they came home for lunch, Evan was still here so he got to play with him a little.

After this year, J.T. will have one more year of not going to school five days a week. After that, he won't have quite as much time to go to work... at least not for the next 17 or 18 years.

Today

Last time he was here visiting....

Andy was home for a little while this morning so he got to hold him too.... Gotta get him the baby fix so he will stop bugging me to have another one....

Working boy

J.T. loves going to work with Andy. Yesterday he went all day and had a great time! I think he would prefer to go to work with Andy everyday, rather than going to school. Oh no! I am sure it will just get worse as he gets older....

The last couple times Andy has taken one of the kids with him I have sent my little point and shoot so he can take a few pictures of the kids. He's been coming back with some great ones!

I am not sure what is going on here, but J.T. is peeking through the gate into the corrals.

J.T. loves 4wheelers almost as much as he loves tractors... maybe more. Andy lets him help drive by holding his thumb on the accelerator button. He says his thumb gets tired though....

I am glad I get to see pictures of what they have done at work....

Today

This morning after I took Abigail to school, I ran to Eureka to do some errands. J.T. was so excited that he was able to go to work with Andy.

The first thing I did today was go to the travel agent to put down a deposit on the flight that will get me to the "Girlfriends Cruise" in February 2009. I can't tell you how excited I am about this. A couple ladies here put this together and there are 76 ladies going!! Can you believe that? I don't know all 76 of them, but I probably know almost half. It will be so much fun! We will be going to Mexico for 5 days.

After the travel agent, I went to Target.... without a shopping list. Bad. Very bad. Mainly I bought household stuff, but I did pick up two bathing suits (see previous post!). I don't know if I will end up keeping them (anyone who really knows me, knows that I am the queen of returns!). I need to try them on at home and see what I think.

I had to do a few other errands and then I came home. It's so quiet in the house right now.... I should probably do some work in the office, but I am not feeling very motivated right now.....

Things that make me feel bad about myself

I think everyone has things that make them feel bad about themselves. Two of mine happen to be having friction with a family member and bathing suit shopping. Guess what???? I did them both today.... and neither of them made me feel very good about myself.

Amy's party

On Saturday, we went to Amy's 4th birthday party. Amy is J.T's "girlfriend." Yes, they are a bit young for that, but it's pretty cute. Amy is the sister of Nolan (Abigail's "boyfriend"). Amy's parents rented this big blow-up slide for the kids to play on.... and they had a blast! They loved that thing.

When we got there, Amy and her dad had taken a trip to the emergency room because she had fallen on the concrete and split her chin. She came back with three stitches but still seemed to enjoy her party.

Abigail begged me to take her picture on the slide....

J.T. had a pretty good time too!

This is a new friend, Ava, that Abigail met at the party...

Look at the cool cupcake cake that Amy's mom, Wendy, got....

I think Amy enjoyed herself even with the owie on her chin...