When is the time?

Last week I had two of my college roomies come for a visit. We had a great time with the kids playing and flashing down to memory lane. We got talking about TV's. (I don't remember why.) I had to open our entertainment center and point out that the one and only TV we have in our house is the one I purchased for our apartment just after our freshman year. This was ten years ago! Not to mention I bought it used from a pawn shop (yes that is a little white trash, but...it was cheap, and I was only 18 with college bills to pay.) They were teasing and saying it may be time for a new one. Don't get me wrong we have thought about it. I start thinking about asking my parents for their opinion--they just bought one a few months ago (a really nice Sony flat screen that can be wall mounted). But wait, their old one is older than mine is now! Then I thought to ask my baby sister--after all theirs is only seven years old (happy anniversary by the way!) Oh, and they did drop it once during a move, and the coloring has not been the same since. Still, they have not bought a new TV. My family may not be the ones to ask if it is time for a new TV. Did I mention that I just bought our 6th or 7th stroller? Where R my priorities?

Bear Lake Fun

We took the kids to Bear Lake for four days to get away one more time before school starts. Nothing could be more fun than sand, water, and kids. Anna even said "This is my favorite day! I am going to remember it forever."

We were able to stay in this little cabin just off of the beach. During the day we played on the beach, did a little bit of hiking, saw a show at the Pickleville Playhouse, and ate raspberry ice cream. I tried to talk Chris into renting a boat for the day, but Zac is too little. Too Bad!!!

We played and relaxed all weekend. Chris even took some time to do a century on his bike (100 miles). I did try out my new bike, but ended up with a seriously scraped up elbow, completely bruised behind, and an eternally bleeding thumb. (Have you ever tried to stop a bike with your feet tied to the pedals? Guaranteed to fall! I got one foot out of the clips but tipped the other way.)

I am glad to be home, but I did love the chance to be together without the usual distractions of life.

My perfect little family

OK, so they are not perfect, but they are pretty darn cute!

Watch out, she is TWO.

Chloe had her birthday on Sunday, but we have felt it coming for a few months now. I have never had a child with so much terror to unload on the world. Don't get me wrong, she is loads of fun-- got the teasing ability of her dad-- but the girl knows all about getting into trouble. We call her our own little Kennadie--ask Megan about that one.

Bringing Zac home!!!

It took me a while to upload the pictures, but here is my little family getting Zac dressed and ready to bring home. It sounds cheesy, but I love this crew. Dad, the calm one getting things done. Preston, the constant help. Anna, the bit of drama. Chloe, the crazy informant. And now Zac, the little one.

Happy Birthday

It's Chris again. I am glad Melissa hasn't changed her password yet. Until she changes it, I may break in once in a while.

I just wanted to wish her a happy birthday today. She is now in her upper twenties and I have been privileged to share the last 8+ years with her. She is one amazing lady (I can say lady now that she is almost 30).

There are so many things I love about her. Here are just a few:

1. She has the most beautiful eyes. I believe you can see them in the picture at the top of the blog. They are the most beautiful blue you have ever seen.
2. She supports me and continually gives to me without much thought for herself. She is one of the most selfless people I know.
3. She gives the same support to the kids. I know that sometimes they get on her nerves, but at the end of the day she gives each one of them a kiss and she means it.
4. She could just stare at Zac for hours. I have only witnessed this complete love a few times in my life. She would do anything for him. (that goes for the rest of us as well.)
5. She has a passion for shopping but she will never bankrupt us with it. (Even if she does spontaneously buy time shares).
6. She is always thinking of others. There are many around that would count her as a true friend. That is rare.
7. She is brilliant. I frequently think, "Man, I bet Melissa could do this a lot better than I could."
8. She is patient. She doesn't think so, but I have seen what she puts up with. Between me and the kids, she has her hands full.
9. She gave up her dreams for me.

This is by no means a comprehensive list. I could sit here all day and write about her.

Melissa, I love you. I am so blessed to be a part of your life. Thank you for everything you do. I hope you have a great birthday.

Love,

Chris

Not so smart...

My husband has a masters degree, his CPA, and speaks Chinese, but I am beginning to question his intelligence.

Yesterday, he decided he is into cycling enough that he needed to shave his legs. No discussion with his wife who has obvious experience. Now he has some funny looking chicken legs and a serious case of razor burn. And I have two very dull razors.

Why would any man ever think that shaving his legs is cool?

Why would he not ask for some advise on such an adventure? Probably because he knows my opinion--not Cool! Not even a little.

Maybe my posting will stop him from repeating the venture. Or maybe I need to post a picture...I will see what I can do.