May 10, 2008 Ship of Thieves! Stealing the Magic..AGAIN!!! Panama Canal FL to CA!!! Part 7

[GatorFamily]

this is our bunny...
I am not sure how long ago..I think it was on the Geek thread, but John mowed over a nest almost, he didn't hurt any bunnies, but he brought one baby in...we kept it for a day or two before sending it back out and this one hangs out ALL the time....we gave him a bag of lettuce tonight.

We always have bunnies eating the grass in our backyard...they come eat and leave ...they are kind of our pets we just don't have to care for them. I wonder if they are jackrabbits and/or wild they live in the desert washes out here along with the cayotes. Kids love looking at them too...too cute. I like them too.

 

[figment52]

That is so funny. When I was in college a very good friend was Ken House. he always said he was going to name his daughter DEEOHGEE ... D-O-G House.....isn't that terrible

That is as bad as the Nutt family naming their daughter Hazel. At least those women can change their names when they get married

 

[katypop]

I sure did! We had so much fun at the bonfire! I was worried about Tyler being bored because I knew no other kids would be there, so I'd warned my co-worker whose house we went to that we might not stay long. We got there at 7 and didn't leave until 10!!!! Tyler almost fell asleep on the way there because he'd been up since 6am and was really ready for bed. I almost changed my mind about going because of how tired he was, but he had really been looking forward to it. For about an hour, he was content to sit with all the adults around the fire, and he was actually our story teller. He made up a spooky story, and was telling us all sorts of things. Very entertaining! He was mesmerized by the fire and had fun cooking his hot dog and marshmallows for his s'more. Our host had a big box of toys outside for him to play with (she keeps it on hand for guest with kids) and he had fun exploring the contents of the box. Later when our host went to get more firewood from her barn, he got to ride in the little trailer she pulled with her tractor. He helped her load it up with firewood and she let him help her drive the tractor back. It was a great time and a great new experience for Tyler because it was his first bonfire.

Sounds like a wonderful evening Holly That's great that Tyler had the confidence to tell his spooky story even though he was the only young person in the group.

 

[GatorFamily]

Although I may not post as much as a lot of you, I try to read as often as I can, and am amazed at how generous and kind you all are to one another. So, where generally in life I have learned to be a little careful what I share with others, simply to protect myself from hurtful comments and judgements, I have decided to share with you what has been one of the most joyous days of my life.

Today I became the grandmother to the most beautiful baby girl

At 9:25 AM , Serenity was born weighing 8lbs 14 oz.

You may remember my daughter was married in May. Well, two days later, my son (who moved to another province in Feb) informed me that his girlfriend, who still lives here, was pregnant and expecting in Sept. We have had a few tough months. His girlfriend, Samantha (yes, yet another Samantha! ) and him planned to move her out to where he is after the baby was born. She is young and scared One day she wants to move, the next she wants to stay here, how hard to have a new baby and move half way across the country where there are no friends or family. She does not have a mom around which just makes this harder. So my son took some time off work and came home a couple of weeks ago and Samantha has moved in with me for now. And finally, a week late (after being told by the doctors she was definately going to be early ) a sweet baby girl was born this morning They will be coming home, to my house, on Monday. My son needs to go back to work on Thurs and Samantha and the baby will stay with me until Nov then move out west. I am so worried about how they will make out and whether Samantha will actually be able to follow through with these plans. But I try very hard, especially after losing my husband 5 years ago, to live each and every day for itself. So, on this very special day, I hope to share with all of you , the joy of being a grandma for the very first time.

Kathe

Congratulations That is so exciting...being a grandma for the first time. She is very lucky to have you there to help. It's really hard adjusting to taking care of a new life you will be a bigger help than you realize

 

[disneylover5]

I am tired...late here in the East...Good night....

Vanessa went to her first tailgate party Friday night. She does not get football at all....she told me when everyone cheers she cheers, when everyone boos...she boos!!

Westfield is on tract to win the VA State title this year. I think my husband says it is ranked 24th in the Nation!!!

She came home from school and asked "what is this homecoming thing boys keep asking me to go to with them"

 

[figment52]

I am tired...late here in the East...Good night....

Vanessa went to her first tailgate party Friday night. She does not get football at all....she told me when everyone cheers she cheers, when everyone boos...she boos!!

Westfield is on tract to win the VA State title this year. I think my husband says it is ranked 24th in the Nation!!!

She came home from school and asked "what is this homecoming thing boys keep asking me to go to with them"

I think the whole exchange student program is so cool. I wish I could have done it as a teen - next best thing to the WDW College program - wish I could have done that one too Both are great experiences.

 

[GatorFamily]

I am tired...late here in the East...Good night....

Vanessa went to her first tailgate party Friday night. She does not get football at all....she told me when everyone cheers she cheers, when everyone boos...she boos!!

Westfield is on tract to win the VA State title this year. I think my husband says it is ranked 24th in the Nation!!!

She came home from school and asked "what is this homecoming thing boys keep asking me to go to with them"

I'm sure she'll figure it out soon enough...I'm sure you'll clue her in. Actually when I was a freshmen in college I was still learning the whole football thing...now I love it She seems really bright she'll pick up on things real quick. What a neat experience for her and your family

 

[HollyTyler]

That is so cool...how fun!!!

Sure was! Everybody laughed at his excitement EVERY time a new log was thrown on the fire because he would say, "OOOOOOOooooooh...look at those fireworks" because every time a new log was thrown, tons of sparks would fly straight up. Kids are so funny! I just love how simple things amaze kids. It really makes me realize just how much in life we adults take for granted.

 

[GatorFamily]

I think the whole exchange student program is so cool. I wish I could have done it as a teen - next best thing to the WDW College program - wish I could have done that one too Both are great experiences.

I remember when I was at UF Disney would try to recruit some of our students for their student programs. I was actually an art major so many of the students were very interested in the animation most of the jobs they had for us were real line level jobs though. I actually met an HR director(I was in HR way back when) in VA that used to work for Disney ...loved to hear the stories. They seem to really promote from within and seem really good to work for ...I'd do it for the discounts/perks alone

 

[HollyTyler]

Sounds like a wonderful evening Holly That's great that Tyler had the confidence to tell his spooky story even though he was the only young person in the group.

Oh, he doesn't have a bone of shyness in him. People are always telling me they predict he'll be either a politician or an entertainer of some sort. It's so amazing to see the potential in kids and to just wonder what they'll end up doing someday.

 

[GatorFamily]

Sure was! Everybody laughed at his excitement EVERY time a new log was thrown on the fire because he would say, "OOOOOOOooooooh...look at those fireworks" because every time a new log was thrown, tons of sparks would fly straight up. Kids are so funny! I just love how simple things amaze kids. It really makes me realize just how much in life we adults take for granted.

I so agree A fun thing for us would be like a vacation...granted my kids like that too but they are happy with something as simple as ordering pizza or a quarter so they could get a gumball from the machine or go to the park. They really like the simple things...my kids love and are entertained by the rain(we don't see it too often in AZ and usually they are asleep). The last time we went to FL it rained and it was my DS highlight.

 

[GatorFamily]

Well gotta join DH and watch some more college football Have a good night everyone

 

[katypop]

Congratulations That is so exciting...being a grandma for the first time. She is very lucky to have you there to help. It's really hard adjusting to taking care of a new life you will be a bigger help than you realize

Thank you I really feel that I am the lucky one, what a wonderful gift I received today

I am tired...late here in the East...Good night....

Vanessa went to her first tailgate party Friday night. She does not get football at all....she told me when everyone cheers she cheers, when everyone boos...she boos!!

Westfield is on tract to win the VA State title this year. I think my husband says it is ranked 24th in the Nation!!!

She came home from school and asked "what is this homecoming thing boys keep asking me to go to with them"

From the pics of Vanessa you posted, it's not surprising she is getting multiple invitations for dates to the homecoming

I think it's great Lisa, that you have welcomed Vanessa into your home. You will have such a positive impact on this young woman's life experiences. She will never forget her time with you and your family

Well, that's it for me too, I need some sleep.

 

[HollyTyler]

Congratulations That is so exciting...being a grandma for the first time. She is very lucky to have you there to help. It's really hard adjusting to taking care of a new life you will be a bigger help than you realize

Absolutely! I remember the day I was to bring Tyler home from the hospital. I was alone with him in our hospital room, waiting to be discharged, wondering if I'd be nervous driving with him. My mom drove to town and showed up a few minutes before I was discharged, so she followed me back to our apartment. I had driven myself to the hospital, so my car was in the hospital parking lot waiting for me. She helped me carry our stuff into my apartment and left after about a half hour. I just sat there, sort of dumbfounded, wishing I had somebody to share the experience of Tyler's first day at home. When I had to go to the pharmacy later that same day for my prescriptions, I was really wishing somebody was there to do that for me because I was in pain still and pretty tired. But I'm a tough cookie, fortunately!

My point is that I know how hard it is to go through the adjustment and whole experience alone, so I'm so glad you're able to be there for Samantha and Serenity and your son. They will appreciate your help SO much! You're a great mom and grandma!

 

[HollyTyler]

I am tired...late here in the East...Good night....

Vanessa went to her first tailgate party Friday night. She does not get football at all....she told me when everyone cheers she cheers, when everyone boos...she boos!!

Westfield is on tract to win the VA State title this year. I think my husband says it is ranked 24th in the Nation!!!

She came home from school and asked "what is this homecoming thing boys keep asking me to go to with them"

How funny!!! But it sure sounds like Vanessa is doing a great job of "going with the flow" and fitting in just great!

 

[HollyTyler]

Well, I supposed I'd better get to bed too. We're going to try to get up early enough for church tomorrow, then find something to do before the planetarium show.....maybe go browse one of the big Halloween stores. There's one in particular that always has very detailed and large displays that are fun to look at. Maybe I'll get our decorations down from the attic and we can decorate. I know it's early, but Tyler's been begging for almost a month to get our Halloween decorations out!

 

[MrsMork]

Thanks Monica,and yes, I will be sure to bring a picture of Serenity, and also one of my daughter on her wedding day
Sure wish I could get moving on scrapbooking. I have a couple of friends who do scrapbooking and they're awesome (both the friends and their scrapbooks ) I bought all sorts of supplies, but I just can't get going I think I'm a little bit intimidated because I know I can't create anything near as artistic as they have. Hopefully once things quiet down here I will attempt this again.

I did a few scrapbooks and I am NOT crafty or artistic. I love my books though. DrHug commented that they "are supposed to be more elaborate." NOPE, they are supposed to reflect who I am since they are mine! Do your scrapping and don't worry about being as artistic as your friends. Just let it reflect you.

 

[MrsMork]

We really enjoyed the Southern Cal/Washington State game! The boys looked really, really good tonight! Last I heard Stanford was ahead of Oregon. Wowzer! I need to go check on that one!

 

[calmom]

You know, I can't imagine as a "child" star what they go through. A group of friends and I would go over to see the new Mickey Louse Club tapings that included her, Justin, Christina, etc...they were all so sweet!

Thinking about young stars, what about Shirley Temple? How did she stay so sane? She should write a book or something to reach out to these young stars to help them - because I bet she could be a great role model. Then again, I imagine the pressures might have been different then??

we also made a stop by the Disney store..nothing exciting aside from NEW NIGHTGOWNS~!

Ok, your girls started the day with ice cream and then made a stop at the Disney store? I want to live in your house! Seriously, how wonderful - you are a great mom! It is these memories that they will cherish as they grow up and forever.

Although I may not post as much as a lot of you, I try to read as often as I can, and am amazed at how generous and kind you all are to one another. So, where generally in life I have learned to be a little careful what I share with others, simply to protect myself from hurtful comments and judgements, I have decided to share with you what has been one of the most joyous days of my life.

Today I became the grandmother to the most beautiful baby girl

At 9:25 AM , Serenity was born weighing 8lbs 14 oz.

Kathe

What joyous news! Little babies our so wonderful. And one that is your grandchild! Thank you so much for sharing.

I am a bit sad, I would like to adopt from a shelter but John is very adament about raising a puppy....we raised Gator together...and Lilly was mine so I raised her and John was ok with her but I am not sure he ever felt fully comfortable. Lilly was definitely my protector...as well as the girls. We did the whole wrap the new baby in the blanket for a day and gave both dogs one.

My DH and I are having the same debate. I feel like we should adopt a dog that is trained and needs a home but he wants a puppy to make sure he doesn't have a bad past history. I suppose both sides have a valid point.

We loved our little Cocker Spaniel too. He lived just to please us. What a sweet guy he was.

It was our first and only Christmas at Tahoe. It was snowing. Only time I had Christmas with snow. After opening all the gifts, my parents showed us a letter from Santa. In the letter was a photo of Puglsey, our new Cocker Spaniel. It gave directions how to pick him up. I think I was around 8. We were so excited on the drive home as we made a stop at the address Santa gave. There was our dog. I was 13 when my parents told us that Puglsey had cancer. He was only 5. They made a tough decision and had him be a part of a cancer treatment program at UC Davis. For many weeks, he went Mon-Fri and received radiation. He spent the week-ends with us. After a period of time, he was declared cured. Now, being older and realizing the cost of such treatments, I cherish my parents for making the "other" decision. Throughout high school, he was my pal, the one that always knew me better than any of my 4 sisters, brother, or parents. If I could, I would have taken him to college. Summers during college was spent at home, walking him and playing. I was 22, living in San Francisco when I received the call from my mom. She was crying, had just got back from the vet. Puglsey hadn't been doing well and she had to make "the" decision. I sat in my apartment and cried until I couldn't cry anymore.

Writing this, I realize how important pets, especially dogs, are to young children. I think we will look into Eurasier - we had looked at them years ago. I think they look beautiful.
http://www.useurasierclub.com/

I know it's early, but Tyler's been begging for almost a month to get our Halloween decorations out!

What a great idea! I think I might do the same. The boys would love it!

 

[been2marceline]

Hi Noel ! Glad you are recovering well.

The Pinot sounds very good. Hmmm? We just bottled about 48 bottles of our own Pinot. Hope it turns out THAT good. It is very promising from early tasting. We were lucky enough to get the grapes at no cost. Our property is in the middle of the North Willamette Vinyard country, and friends gave us some of their last years harvest. It turned out much better than I thought it would, since Pinot is a first for me. Dick Erath told me he would sell me some of his grafted plants from his own nursery, but he sold out and retired last year. I didn't jump on the opportunity.
Oh well. He is probably playing golf in AZ somewhere.
I love to make wine.

DD loves to make wine and has won several medals with the Californian homewinemakers Association. All with white wines.

He has been so busy with our wine shop and his other software engineer jobs that he has not made any wine in a while

Oh well, it's not as if we are lacking in wine!

Karen