Road ditch cleanup

Last Sunday we did Stone Hollow's fall road ditch cleanup. We are either getting better or there is less trash. Maybe a little of each. We also celebrated Logan's 16th birthday at the Kruse's with about 5 other October birthdays. Hard to believe Logan is 16 already too. He got a great bday present on Wed. night when Beckman won their play-off game. Grandma Grace says if they make it to the UNI-dome she will come see them. Let's hope they win their game Monday night so she can go.

Happy 5th birthday, Trenten

Hard to believe but tomorrow Trenten turns 5! We are having his party tonight at our house. I am sure he will be EXCITED! I keep telling him he can't turn 5 and he tells me he will still be our grandson! I tell him he is our favorite grandson. Always will be our favorite first grandson. Let the party begin. I am actually ready. Lasagna, Olive Garden salad and garlic bread. mmmmm! I am getting hungry. And don't forget birthday cake and ice cream.

new Ford truck

Almost forgot to mention we got a new vehicle last week. We are the proud new owners of a F-150 Ford pickup. It is a first for this family, a Ford that is. Jon had said that I could drive it to school and he would take the van, but that hasn't happened yet. I will stick with the van. I know how to drive it and I don't care if it gets dirty and messy. 205,000 miles and counting!

Cutting wood!

Spent the day cutting and stacking wood at Tory and Abby's. It was a beautiful day to be outside and Trent made it even better when he said "Thank you for helping us get ready for the winter," to Jason and me. And he's only 4 years old. Abby and Tory are doing something right.
Lost a great guy this week. Joe lost the battle to cancer. For someone who started as a hired man for mom and dad, he turned out to be a true friend and part of our life for almost 50 years. He was the kind of guy you were always glad to see and talk to. God bless him and his family. He will be missed.

Last class EVER!!!!!!

I might be jinxing myself by saying this but I took my last class today in order to renew my teaching licence next May for 5 more years and I don't plan on doing this for any more than 5 years if that long. It is totally amazing that I have been teaching as long as I have. Where did those years go? This actually deserves a celebration. Maybe I can talk Jon into taking me out tonight. I am kind of tired though cause the class I took was Teachers on the Move and move we did. I predict I am going to be sore tomorrow. But I figure as long as I could keep up with teachers half my age and I didn't get hurt, it was a good day.
In other news the weather the past 2 weeks has been absolutely BEAUTIFUL! Fall days just don't get any better. And the trees are so colorful this year. Reds, yellows, oranges, browns everywhere. Thank you, God.

Reinbergs

Well the Reinbergs came and went this past weekend. It was such an awesome weekend. Trent, Addy and I got home Fri about 3:20, walked in the backdoor and Jason, Christina, Hunter and Parker walked in the front door. Perfect timing. Aaron, Linda, Albert and Hope came a little bit later. Beau and Greg were not able to come. Missed both of them. Friday night was spent talking, catching up and eating. Saturday morning we all went to Anamosa to the Pumpkin Fest. It was really fun. The big pumpkins were cool. We watched some of them come into the Lawrence Center and be weighed. The biggest one when we left was almost 1300 pounds. We then went to see the carved pumpkins and walked down main st with all the venders. The kids all went in the bounce houses. Al, Hunter and Trent all did the big wheel races. They had a blast. It was so cute to watch them. They all thought they won. By that time Hope was getting tired, so Aaron, Linda, Al and Hope and Jon, Trent and I headed home. Al, Trent and Hunter got to ride in the combine with Marc when he was picking corn. Linda, Jason, Christina and Aaron went touring while I got ready for Sat night. The local Loeses all came for dinner Sat. night. It was great to have everyone together. We older generation love having our families get together. We really have to work on getting everyone together sometime. The Reinbergs left Sunday morning around 9:30. The rest of the day was spent doing wash, cutting grass and cleaning. Then it was early to bed for this lady. It will be an early night tonight too. It does seem strange that I don't have to do something to get ready for. A good strange though. Hope that Adam and Joelle had as great a weekend as we did. Will have to call them and hear all about their trip to OR. The weather this weekend was absolutely amazing. Days just don't get any better than they were. It is supposed to be nice all week. Yay! I love beautiful fall days.

Adam came and went!

It was so good to see Adam last weekend. He flew into Dbq and we all went in to pick him up at 4:30 on Friday. He was going to go meet a friend in Dbq that night but that fell through so we go to spend Fri night with him. Abby, Trent, Addy and Tory were here for supper that night. It was nice just catching up. Dad and I went to bed @ 10 and then Adam went out to meet up with some other friends in Cascade. He did get home rather late and was still in bed when we left to cruise @ 11:30 Sat morn. He had Mike and Katie's wedding that day and came home Sunday. We had a family picture taken out at Abby and Tory's around 3. It was raining so it was a quick process. No standing around or trying different angles or changing positions. But we got it done and even got some pics with Grandma Grace. Joe and Sherry came down with Mom for supper that night. We got a couple games of Euchre in of course. Adam stayed overnight at the Toppings that night. We spent Monday cleaning the garage and just spending time with Adam. Adam and I went along with Abby over to Trent's TKD lesson. Papa stayed home with Addy cause she was sleeping. We all went to Happy Joe's for pizza. Then it was Tuesday morning and time to take Adam back to the airport. It went so fast. I am just so happy that he is happy and doing so well. It makes it easier to let him go when I know that he is happy. The way time goes he will be home for Christmas before we know it.
I am now getting ready for the Reinbergs next weekend. I am so glad we got the garage cleaned and ready for the kids. I went to Dbq with Abby, Trent and Addy today and got a lot of my groceries. I have the menus all planned. Now I just have to start cooking. I really am looking forward to seeing all of them. Hopefully the weather is nice. We are planning on going to the Pumpkin Fest in Anamosa on Sat. Then we will probably have the Loes' down on Sat night. I think we are all going to the Monastery for mass on Sunday. Busy busy but fun. I am actually waiting for my turkey to get done so I can go to bed. Aaron loves turkey/dressing sandwiches.
Jon and I actually might get a new vehicle. We test drove a F-150 today. I know we need something different but I really do hate buying new vehicles. It is so much money!!! That must be why we only buy new ones every 12-15 years. I told Ted, the salesman, at that rate that this might be the last vehicle we buy.

Adam is coming home!!!

I looked and the last time I blogged was August 15th. Yikes! And I think I blogged about how fast time was going and how busy I was. I think it is worse now. I am excited though because we are picking Adam up at the airport tomorrow at 4:25!!! Yay!!! Can't wait to see him and spend some time with my whole family. He won't be around til Sunday but I will take any time I can have with him. We are going to have a family picture taken Sunday. Haven't had one for a while and I guess we have to do it when we can.
School is going good. The days go so fast and we are so busy. We have been raising monarch butterflies these past weeks. Have released 2 so far and now have 4 chrysalises and 1 more caterpillar. It has been great and the kids have loved watching them but I will kind of be glad when they are all on their way to Mexico. I feel bad when 1 doesn't make it and I worry about them. Not to mention getting milkweed every day to feed the little buggers. Hopefully these last 5 will make it.
Trent is growing so fast. I picked him and Addy up this morning and took them to daycare and school. Trent wouldn't even let me walk him down to his room. He said he knew the way. Said goodby and he was gone. He was a little dickens tonight when he wouldn't go to Tae Kwon Do for me. I wasn't about to take him screaming so we stayed home. I think Tory thinks I shouldn't give in to him and I agree in principle but I am not going to fight those battles. So we stayed home and he got to help Papa and we played and he was good the rest of the night. Little Miss Adelyn is also growing at lightning speed. She is so much happier now that she is walking. Loves to keep up with her big bro. Adam won't even recognize those 2. I feel bad that he doesn't get to see them that often. We are going to have to start skyping so we can see and talk to each other.
Am going to bed. I need my sleep just like Addy does. She and her mom must get it from me.

Where did summer go??????

I have been so lax at blogging even I can't believe it. I am not sure if I could be any busier but I guess that is a good thing. They say idle hands are the devils workshop. So I guess he hasn't been round these parts and that is good.
We went to NE this past weekend with Abby, Trent and Miss Addy. Had a great and relaxing time. Addy and Trent were excellent travelers. I know those 2 could do CO with no problems.
Went to Clear Lake the weekend before with the car club. Took the Nova this time. A good time was had by all. The weather was beautiful both weekends.
Alan and Ronda came out 2 nights to help put Trent and Addy's playhouse together. What we thought would take maybe 1 evening, took 3 nights. But we got it together and it is now sitting in our garage. Not sure when we are taking it out to the Toppings. It did turn out cute.
Am all done with classes for the summer. They were good for the most part. I really liked Paul Gasser's class. I have to pick up 1 more hour this fall. Then I can renew my license next spring for the last time. Hopefully.
Tomorrow is my last babysitting day with Trent and Addy. I go back to school on Wed. Open house is on Thursday night. I am totally not ready to go back. Literally. I went up to school this morning for a couple hours and didn't get much done. But I will be ready when I have to be. Actually kind of looking forward to it. Just a little.
Talked to Adam last night. He is coming home in Sept. Yay! I really miss him. But he sounds so happy and content that I am happy for him. Even if I don't get to see him much.
I am going to bed cause I am tired and I have to get the kids in the morning and take Ash to work by 8.

Beautiful rain!

Woke up to thunder and lightning this morning. Thank you, God, for the beautiful and desperately needed rain. They say God always sends the rain just when you need it and the last minute. Well this time He did. I was still worrying even though I said I was not going to worry cause it doesn't do any good. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Went down to CR with Sherry yesterday for a Dr. appt. Sherry is such a great person. I would do anything for that girl. I keeping telling her she is the best thing that ever happened to the Gottos. I hope she can have her surgery soon to help get rid of her pain.

Actually did a little school work this morning. Started ordering Keystone items for the year :( I am really going to have to start working on my attitude soon. But not too soon. I am still on vacation and school will come soon enough without thinking about it. So for now, I won't think about it or worry about being ready.

Busy weekend ahead. Drinks with Julie and Colette at 3:30 and Norwex party at 6:30 today. Then my LAST Effigy Mounds class and surprise 50th birthday party tomorrow. And I think Jon is going to want to paint in-between there somewhere.

Beginning to be sad

July is going so fast. I know I need to enjoy each day and appreciate each moment but I am getting more depressed cause school will soon be starting :( I am not sure how I am going to fit teaching into my schedule. It seems like I am so busy now. Oh well. It will come and it will go too fast too!

It is hot, hot, hot out this week. In the 100s with the heat index. High 90s temps. I am handling the heat just fine. I am staying inside. How did we do it back in the day without air-conditioning? I do remember not having air and it was HOT. I still remember Jon coming in and telling me we were putting in central air. I must have been really cranky that summer. Was one of the best things we did to the house. Then last year we put in the geo so I don't even feel too guilty running the air. Hopefully we will get some rain when it decides to cool down a little. It is dry out there. But I told myself I am not going to stress about it cause it doesn't do any good any way. Easily said, right?

Just got the computer back from being fixed. Marty was not sure what happened. He said it wasn't a virus like the last time. Whatever. I plugged it in and tried to start back up last night and could not get on the internet. I hate computers!!! When they don't work. And I hate that I have to take care of it when it doesn't work. Needless to say, I was not happy last night. I called Marty this morning and he walked me through what I had to do to get on-line. He again was not sure what happened from the time it left the store to the time I turned it on but I told him it was me. I am sure I clicked on something I shouldn't have. I got email up and running again and now all I have to do is reinstall PCMars. I am going to make Jon help me do that. Hopefully we will still be talking when we get done.

Trent and Addy are growing by leaps and bounds. They are so much fun and are always doing and saying things that are so funny and amazing. Trenten is so into Transformers it's crazy. He has such an imagination and memory. He knows the movies so well. Everything he plays with is a Transformer. Farming and construction have taken a backseat for a while. Little Miss Addy is crawling up a storm and loves to walk with you holding your hands. She loves being outside and she loves the cows. She always wants to go out to see the cows up close. I keep telling her she will be so much happier when she starts walking. Won't be long now. Actually like having her not walking cause she is still a baby as long as she is not walking.

One more Effigy Mounds class left on Saturday! They have been good but will be glad to be done. Jon might go with me on Sat. Hope he does. He will make the day much more enjoyable.

4th of July

Crazy, crazy, crazy fast. That is this summer. It is July 5th already. I have 2.5 of my classes done with 2 more Sat. of Effigy Mounds and 1 class in Aug. The last class for Effigy Mounds was to Motor Mill, The George Meier Museum in Elkader and Eagle's Landing Winery in Marquette. Another great day! I also took Paul Gasser's class last week. He was great. Very practical and down to earth. A lot of great suggestions for discipline and teaching.
Linda was up over the weekend. She came up on Friday and left yesterday for Phil and Elaine's in Wisc. It was so good to see her. I just love visiting with her. Just wish she would have stayed longer. Ricky, Pat and Laurie came down on Fri. night to see her. Saturday we hung out, took some things out to Abby and Tory's for their 4th of July party, came back home to rest and get ready for the party and then went out to Abby and Tory's around 4:30. The party was another success. Great food, fun and fireworks. I did not do the Bean Bag Tournament this year. That was ok. Ryan and Tory actually won it. The fireworks were great and went off without a hitch. I am always glad when they are done.
Sunday was another laid back day. Jon, Linda and I went to 8:30 mass at Holy Family and then stopped at the Monastery. Linda was impressed. She wants to go to mass there when they come back up the next time. Maybe in October. After mass we came back home cause the kids were coming over for breakfast. It ended up being Ash, her two friends, Trent and Addy. After eating it was time for another nap for Linda and Jon. Then in the afternoon we went calling. Stopped to see Laurie's house and visited with her. Then we stopped in on Marc and Becky, who were busy landscaping in front of the house. (It was mostly Sheila and Trap doing most of the work.) Got to see the remodeled living room. I like the wood floor. Then went on to see Brad and Sarah. It was actually nice to see and visit with them all. I think Linda really enjoyed it. We then came back home for supper. Barbequed ribs!!! They were great if I do say so myself. We ate so much that we thought we should go for a walk. Went back through the fields on my path into Paulie's.
Went to the 4th of July parade with Jon, Linda, Trent and Addy. We watched from Jeff and Laura's. Pat, Ricky, Laurie and Megan were also there. Went to the cemetery w/Linda after the parade and Linda left for WI after that. Wish she could have stayed longer. Love it when she comes. Hopefully she and her family come back this fall. Jason is talking about it. Just need to set a date. Jon and I came home after some porkburgers and pie at the park. Another nap for Jon. Ronda and Al came out in the afternoon. Abby and Tory went to Transformers 3 so Trent and Addy were also here. Ronda and Al stayed for supper (leftovers from the weekend so it was super easy and good). Then when Abby and Tory came home we went out to their place to get grills, chairs and tables and help Tory put a a belt on his mower. Finally got home about 10:00. To tired to even stay up for the fireworks.
Great news from Adam. He got a promotion at work. He is now a PM (Project Manager). Better pay and he says a lot easier work. He gets to stay down in the trailer instead of climbing to the top of the smokestacks. So happy for him and proud of him. Still looking into going out to see him either this summer or early fall. It's hard finding a time that works for everyone. I am just happy knowing he is doing so well. Thank you, Lord. All that praying worked. Hope you are still listening cause I still have lots of prayers.

1 and 1/4 down

Finished my first summer class on Friday. Organizing the reading/writing block. Not sure if I learned how to do that exactly but I earned 1 credit on my way to 5 this summer. Went up to Effigy Mounds yesterday for the first Saturday of 4. It was awesome. We did some bird-watching, hiking, eating and listened to 2 outstanding speakers. Bob Anderson, who is responsible for the Decorah eagle cam and introducing the Peregrine Falcon back to the Mid-west and Jon Stavers, who has been bird monitoring on the Mississippi River for 30 years and studying the Red-shouldered Hawk, were our speakers. It was simply awesome listening to them describe their work and passion. I have a new found respect for environmentalist and people who dedicate their whole life to what they believe in. I was kind of dreading or at least not looking forward to the next 3 Saturdays that I have to give up for this class but now I am excited about them. The only thing that scares me is that yesterday was so good that the rest can never be as good. But even if they are half as good that will still be great. My next workshop is June 25 and it is Silos and Smokestacks.
On another note, we actually got to cruise today. It was too wet for Jon to spray so he came home and we went cruising from 12 to 3. Alan and Ronda went with us. That was nice cause we never get to see them. We went down to Olin and over to Anamosa and then back to Cascade. Cruised through town and then were supposed to stop for Music at the Park but we came home. I then went out to help Abby out with the kids. We came back to our house for supper. The Corner Tap was having ribs tonight and they sounded good so we ordered 4 dinners and I picked them up to go. I almost fainted when she told me how much they were. $69.00!!!!!!!!!!!! Needless to say, we won't be ordering those again for a while, if ever. They weren't as good as Schroeder's either. I guess we need to ask how much things are before we order from now on so at least I have an idea of what I am going to be paying.
Jon is going out to Nebraska for a meeting tomorrow. He is leaving at 3 in the morning for a 9 o'clock meeting and then coming home tomorrow after the meeting. Sort of drive, meet, drive. He is going with Jake and Mark so I don't have to go along. I am going with Abby, Trent and Addy to CR to get Addy's 1 year picture taken and do a little shopping.
Right now I need to start my paper for my class. I figure if I do a page after each class it will be easier than doing a 4 page paper when it is all done. Yippee!

Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful

I just love summer mornings like this. It is sunny, warm with a small breeze and everything is so green. It just doesn't get any better. I wish I could package it and bring it out in the middle of winter. :) Jon is home today. Yay! We called Trent to see if he wanted to farm with Papa today. Silly question. He is on his way over and we are going down to Jim's to do a little more cleaning up and seeding. A great day and Jon home and Trent gets to help farm. It does get better.

Goodby, Adam

Adam and Joelle came and went and it's already Thursday. It was so good to see Adam. He has grown into such a nice young gentleman. He got home Friday night about 10:45. At least that is what he said cause I was in bed and passed out from 2 Tylenol P.M. and 2 regular Ibupro. I was not feeling the best as Trent would say. I got up around 1 and saw Adam's flip-flops on the floor so I knew he was home. I did get up the next morning with Jon cause he had to go to work at 6. Adam even got up to say hi and goodby to Dad cause Adam was going down to IC to see some friends, play golf and wouldn't be home til Sunday. He actually said that was the most sleep he had gotten all week. Adam came back for brunch on Sunday morning and then he headed over to Joelle's sister's graduation party. He came back home on Monday and stayed til Tuesday about 4. Joelle came over on Monday for supper. Mom, Joe, Sherry, Mac and Karen and Claire were also here. Along with the Toppings. Everyone but Ashley. Tuesday was really a laid back day. Abby and the kids came over and we just hung out. Went up to see Dad at work. Then he came with us when we went out to Tory and Abby's. Went on a tractor ride with Adam and Trent. Just visited and caught up. We talked about when we can come out to CO this summer. Right now we are planning on Aug 11- 15 or 16. There are not a lot weekends that work so hopefully this will.
I watched Addy and Trenten yesterday and today cause Abby took Tues off so she could spend it with Adam. Addy actually started to crawl yesterday. She is not real excited about it yet. She still gets mad and screams when she wants to be picked up. But she can do it. But mostly she just want to at this point. Now I have to start on the walking. No rest this summer for that girl. Trent is just Trent. Yesterday he rolled a watermelon off the island. I was in the bathroom and I heard this thud and Trent comes in to tell me the watermelon broke. It was on the floor split in two. It was a real juicy one too. I asked Trent if he learned anything from this experience. Maybe that watermelons are round and they will roll if you push them. I managed to save most of it. It was a good one too. Trent had Tae Kwon Do tonight. Ash, Addy and I all went over to Monti with him. Tory had a lesson and Abby had a tour of the facility so we stayed the whole lesson. Trent was not focusing real well but he did fine. Left the kids off at Ronda and Alan's and am now waiting for Jon to come home. Not sure if I have the kids tomorrow. Abby probably has a lot to do at the building so I might have them for a while. But I can sleep in so that will be nice.

What's with this getting sick

I am not complaining(yes I am) but this is the 3rd time I have been sick this past school year. Not sure what I am doing wrong but I am getting sick of being sick. Actually I think it might have had something to do with this school year. But it is now over and I am planning on being my old healthy self from now on.

Bummer

Today is Miss Adelyn's first birthday, the last day of school and Adam was supposed to come home tonight and I AM SICK! I did go to school this morning. Went over to see Sherry so I could get some drugs to get better fast. I did get the drugs but did not get better fast. I stayed at school til 12 and then came home and went to bed. Abby decided to move Addy's birthday party to their place so they are partying right now and I am at home by myself. Was a wise move to move the party. I wouldn't have come out of the bedroom anyway and I don't want to give this to anyone. Not fun. Adam text and said his flight was delayed til 10 or 10:30 so he is also missing Miss Addy's party. At least Papa got to go even if he was a little late. At least 1 Loes is there. Not sure what time Adam will get here tonight. I will have to call a little later to see what his status is. He said Joelle was delayed too but she got out. Hopefully we will get to see Adam for a while tomorrow before he goes to IC tomorrow and Joelle's sister's graduation party on Sunday. I am beginning to realize that even when Adam comes home we will not see that much of him. It sounds like it will be a lot of time but things like delays and friends and Joelle take much of his time. Not that friends and Joelle are bad. I just want to see Adam as much as I can. I miss him.
I can tell now it is going to be a FAST summer. What with 3 classes, babysitting and everything else I will be back at school before I know it or want to be. It will be so different next year without Julie. I am happy for her. I hope she has years and years of happy healthy retirement. Colette, too. I was really doubly blessed having Julie and Colette as co-teachers. You don't find any nicer people than Julie and Colette.

Bert and Julie

We had our all school assembly yesterday for Bert and Julie's retirements and it was very nice if I do say so myself. The quilts turned out beautiful. The program was very nice. Everyone's talks went well. The 8th graders did a little skit as Mr. Meloy and Mrs. Oeschger with the help of Mary Kluesner and Katie McGuire. I almost panicked when Mary Yamoah started her comments because she did the same thing I did with my talk telling how many years, hours ,etc Julie and Bert have been at school when they have taught for 38 and 39 years. But I just left out the ones she did and did the rest of mine and it was fine. Every one said I did a great job. I only cried a little. And I forgot my tissues so I couldn't cry too much or I would have had to stop and go get tissues. I really have been blessed with Julie and Colette as co-teachers. They are both such wonderful people. The get- together at Happy Joe's afterwards was great. I couldn't believe how many people came for the assembly and the reception at Happy Joe's. What a great tribute to 2 great people. I was so happy for Bert and Julie. I guess now it is for real. It will be so different next year without Julie and Bert. Good for them. I wish them many happy, healthy years of retirement. When I retire I am just going to do open bar-pizza reception. Skip the assembly. Alcohol and food is all I need!!!
Jon and I are heading down to St. Louis today to celebrate Gregg's 70th birthday tonight. I am so glad that Jon is going with me. I said I was going by myself even if he didn't so maybe that is why he decided to take the afternoon off and go with me. That and it's supposed to rain all weekend. And he needs a break. I don't know anyone who works harder or is more dedicated than Jon. IAS is very lucky to have him. I hope they know that. Marlene Kremer said yesterday that Fred, her husband who works with Jon, said that everyone at work listens to Jon cause he knows what he's doing and he's usually right. I agree. Anyway we are going down today and coming back tomorrow so it will be a quick trip. But nice to get away and spend time with Jon. Better get going. Lots to do and Jon said we can leave @ 11 so I have to have everything ready when he gets home.

Trenten's red hankie

Trent asked me if he could have a red hankie (like you know who) on Saturday. I found one of Papa's for him to put in his back pocket. Well I folded it up as small as I could and put it in his back pocket for him. He said he would use it if he got dirty or if he had to wipe his nose:) Problem was every time he used it, I had to put it back cause it was so big. So I found a old hankie that had a few holes in it and cut out the middle. Just the right size for a little farmer. Now he can use it and put it back by himself. Too cute.
Still trying to teach that Little Miss Soft Hair Topping Adelyn Grace Topping to crawl. Maybe she will skip crawling and go right to walking. I know she will be soooooooooo happy when she gets mobile.
Celebrated 36 years of wedded bliss yesterday. Jon was actually home at a decent time (8:30) which is way better than 10:30. We opened a bottle of wine and I watched him eat his dinner and we visited. Most nights lately I am in bed when he gets home. So it was actually a better anniversary than I thought it would be. Love you, Jon. You are the best.
Jon had Saturday afternoon and Sunday off cause it rained Friday night and Saturday. I told Jon I wanted a load of mulch for Mother's Day so Jon and Trent went to Dbq to pick up a load on Sat. afternoon. Trent was so cute when they came home. He came in and said they got the load of red mulch then told me to come out and look at it in the pickup but to close my eyes so I would be surprised. So of course I did. Then Trent, Jon, Addy and I all spread mulch. It looks great. Might need one more load for my birthday.
9 DAYS TIL THE END OF SCHOOL! 6 1/2 teaching days!!! Yeah! I have never been so happy to see a school year end. I almost feel bad. Hopefully this kind of year only comes around every 35 years.
9 days til Miss Addy's birthday and Adam comes home. Double yeah! Can't wait to see Adam. Hopefully we will also get to see Joelle sometime over the weekend. I know it will come and go too fast.

busy weekend again

Getting ready to head up to Mom's for Mother's Day. I am so fortunate to have such a great mom. She is truly inspirational. I thank God for her and pray that I can be half the mom and person she is. Love you, mom. Jon is working again. Not sure how he does it. Hopefully he will get off early tonight so he can celebrate my mother's day dinner. The Toppings, Toppings, Kurts and Kurts are coming for dinner tonight. We are grilling steaks and chicken breasts so it will be simple. I heard on Sunday Morning this morning the key to happiness is your connection to other people. I agree. People make you happy, not your job, things, where you live, how much money you have or anything else. It is God, family and friends.
Roadside clean up was yesterday. I am truly amazed at how many people STILL throw their garbage out the window going down the road. And the people who throw bottles with liquid still in them with the caps on. What are they thinking? They don't want to spill in the ditch? Stupid times 2! I hate picking up bottles with ingredients still in them AND they make our bags really heavy. Abby says everyone should be required to do roadside cleanup. Then maybe they wouldn't litter.
19 days til Addy's birthday, the last day of school and Adam comes home!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Trenten's secret

Trenten told me today on our way to pick up Addy that he had a secret. I asked what it was. He told me that Maggie had two boyfriends. I, of course, had to ask who they were. He said he and Ely were Maggie's 2 boyfriends. Too funny. Where do these kids learn these things???
Talked to Adam last night. It is so good to talk to him and know that he is happy and doing so well. Thank you, God, for blessing both of my children with happiness and goodness. I am so proud of both Abby and Adam. They are so good and kind. They must get that from their father. Can't wait til Adam comes home so we can all be together again. There is nothing a mother loves more than seeing her family all together. 3 weeks from tomorrow!! Which will also be Little Miss Soft Hair Adelyn Grace Topping's (Trenten's current name for his little sister) 1st birthday. Double celebration day. And the last day of school. Triple celebration!

Back to normal

Went back to school today after taking 2 sick days. You don't appreciate feeling well until you are sick. Had Trent and Addy for a while after school tonight. Trent says to me, "I don't want to be a little boy, I want to be big." I asked him why he didn't want to be little anymore knowing exactly what he was going to say. He said, "I want to be big so I can drive things."
On the way home we were going by Bill Trumm's farm and talking about the Trumms again and Trenten says rather matter of factually, "There are a lot of Trumms in the world." He is right about that, at least in Cascade.
Not sure if I should pray for rain or sunshine tomorrow. Which would be worse, Beckman Field and Track Day with 100s of kids or teaching without planning for tomorrow. You decide, God.
Not proud of this but am thankful that Miss Addy is ok. I was carrying her and walking out to the garage yesterday and missed the step and FELL. I was watching Abby go up the ladder to the loft and NOT watching what I was doing and went down. Luckily I was able to kind of protect Addy in my arms but she still bumped her head on the concrete floor. I felt awful. I can't imagine if she would have been really hurt. Abby took Addy to Dr. Frey and he adjusted her in a couple places and Abby said she is still the same little Addy. I am so sorry Addy, Abby and Tory. I promise to be even more careful from now on.

Not fun

Day 3 of whatever it is that's making me sick. Not sure if it's the flu or what but I still feel crappy. I did not go to school yesterday and am still home today. And this was going to be an easy week so to speak. The 5th grade had their field trip yesterday so I was going to sub 3rd grade in the afternoon for Bert. Tomorrow is early dismissal. Thursday is Beckman field and track day and Friday is 1st grade field trip. And it is teacher jean week all week. It's not fair! I'm off to bed again. I'm actually getting tired of being tired and laying around. Could be lots worse so I'm not complaining. I will get better and soon.

Heir apparent

Trenten told me this morning that he is going to be a Loes when he grows up, like Papa, me and Nellie. Poor Papa will never get to retire. Trenten plans on farming and Papa has to help him. Trenten has been pouring over Tractor House, picking out the tractors and equipment he and Papa are going to buy. Oh, to be young again and believe anything is possible.

I tried!

Actually, Jon and I both tried to give blood on Monday but neither one of us could because our iron levels were too low. That was the first time Jon couldn't give but it has happened to me before. I've been trying to lower my cholesterol but seem to be lowering my iron with it. I think we're going to have steak and spinach for dinner tonight. That should raise my iron and my cholesterol. You can't win. This getting older stuff is hard. I better go watch Oprah now to find out what the 4 power foods are.

Easter come and gone

It was a nice low key Easter. The weather actually turned out not so bad. You know it's been crummy when not so bad is good. Mom made it down around 4. She went to 9:30 mass at Epworth. Then went to Karen and Mac's for dinner. She said everyone was home there and they played a few hands of Euchre. That's always a treat for mom. Then she came to our house from there. So she had a full day. She left here around 7. Abby left Addy off around 3 so she could take a nap here. Never happened though. She just wouldn't go down. I know, I know, just let her cry a little. It's just so hard. I like rocking and holding her. Won't be long and she will be running around like her big bro. Trent had his Easter egg hunt. I hid them inside cause it was just easier and then Grandma Grace could watch. I had 4 eggs with clues in them for him to find their gifts along with the candy filled eggs. He liked the clue eggs. He got a fat bat and ball and he and Tory had to go out and try it out before they left. Addy got a little outfit, Ashley got a Subway card and Tory and Abby got soda and a basket. Abby and Tory's clue said Trenten had to look where Mama and Papa park their van and truck and Tory shouted, "We get a new car!" So he might have been a little disappointed with just Mt. Dew and Root Beer. Funny!
I actually started my report cards last night after everyone was gone and I was done cleaning up. I am going to have them done by May 1. Not much will change from now til the end of the year so I'm going for it.
Well I better get going and enjoy the rest of my Easter vacation. I am giving blood today uptown and I might stop at school and do a few things.
We also talked to Adam yesterday. Sounds like he and Joelle were having a very quiet Easter. He said he was flying out at 6 yesterday to go to Salt Lake City for work this week. He has his ticket bought to fly home at the end of May. He and Joelle are both flying home, just not together. He flies into Madison and she will fly into Des Moines. Not sure what time he will get here on the 27th. Hopefully he will make Addy's birthday party that night.

Happy Easter!

Happy Easter everyone!(Which is the Toppings cause Abby is the only one who knows about my blog.) We went to Peosta for Holy Saturday services last night. Got there at about 7:10 and were walking out of the church at 9:15. Yeah, 2 hours. But it was so great. The music was awesome. It was so up-lifting. Jon and I both said we were glad we went. Looking forward to a relaxing Easter day. The Toppings(minus Ashley) and Mom are coming for supper tonight. So it's just a regular meal with an Easter egg hunt for Trent and Addy. I might even work in the yard this afternoon if I have time. Jon might go into work to spray if it is dry enough which is fine with me. They are calling for rain the next two days and since it's just him and me today, I say go for it. Hopefully we get to talk to Adam today some time. I missed his call yesterday. So technically he did call. Just haven't connected yet.

Lost and found and lost and found again!

I'm starting to get a little worried about my mind. I have lost my wedding ring not once but TWICE in the past year. The first time I knew that I took it off and laid it somewhere with my watch but could not for the life of me remember where. I looked in every possible location in the house where I thought I could have put it to no avail. I finally just gave up looking and eventually found it in a crock in the living room. Don't ask me why I put it in there. This time though I had NO idea where it might be because I still had my watch on and I always take them off together and put my ring on my watch. I took my watch off and no ring. I had no idea where to even look cause I couldn't remember if I put it on or took it off. I was sure it was gone for good this time. Jon said he would buy me a new one but I couldn't let him do that cause I would probably lose that too. Then the other night Jon said to close my eyes and put out my hand and he would give me a surprise. Of course I did and he put my ring in my hand. Yay!! He said he found it on the garage floor by the drain on my side of the garage when he came home at noon that day. How it got there I'll never know. And how he ever saw it is amazing too. I am trying to be more careful now. I just need to always put it in the same place when I take it off. That will definitely save me a lot of stress.

Trent decided he did not want to go to Taekwondo tonight. He said he was too sick. Not. Then he told Ashley his tummy was saying to feed it. I think he just wanted to go and play with Tanner.

Four whole days off for Easter vacation:) I know it will go way too fast. Tory, Abby, the kids and Mom are coming for Easter supper. Adam and Joelle won't be home. They are coming home the end of May. Can't wait to see them. Hopefully we will be able to see more of Adam than we did at Christmas. I know he will be surprised when he sees how much Trent and Addy have grown. I am amazed and I see them all the time. Addy is going to be a year old next month. Wow. Slow down!

Crazy weather

Rain, cold, sleet, snow, wind. Lovely Iowa spring weather. Shouldn't complain cause it could and probably will be worse. Just would like a little sun :)

Went to see the Lemon Sisters last night at Farley. They are a group of 6 Burkle sisters, 5 Deutmeyer sisters and 3 friends that sing together. They were so enjoyable to watch and listen to. Great oldie songs and skits to go along with the songs. They looked like they were having fun.It was a feel good show. Lois called yesterday morning suggesting all the girls go. Karen, Lois, Judy, Mom and I made it. I was so glad Lois called. I wish I would have taken Jon along too. He would have enjoyed the music. Next time.

Farming family

Trenten and little Miss Adelyn got to farm with Papa today. Jon wanted to haul away the hay/manure pile down at Jim's pond so we all had to help. Trenten and Papa went down to Marc's to get the tractors and manure spreader. I offered to drive them down but Trent said he wanted to walk cause he didn't get any exercise yet today. Then we all headed down to Jim's. Addy and I in the loader tractor and Trent and Papa in the other tractor. Addy thought it was really cool. She was looking around and smiling. She was really good considering Jon said there would only be 1 load to haul and it ended up being 3. Papa said Trent asks a thousand questions. Which I believe. He can talk non-stop. Addy came home and took another nap after her big excursion in the tractor. Farming is hard work. Trent helped Papa do a few more things outside and then came in and said he had work to do in here. I think they were both tired when it was time for them to go home. Mama is too. Night. Tomorrow is Monday already. Ugh!

Retirements (not mine)

Julie, Colette and Bert are all retiring this year. Good for them. Between them they have almost 120 years of teaching. Wow. I hope they have wonderful, healthy retirements. They deserve it. It will be so strange next year for me without Julie. I have taught with her for 34 years. She and I complimented each other in so many ways. I will have to be more organized and take more pictures. I told her I was going to hire her to do my Aquin web page. Among other things. I am so fortunate that I was able to teach with both Julie and Colette. They are both inspirations to me. I have always tried to be like them both personally and professionally. Happy Retirement!

Born in a Barn

Went to the first ever Born in a Barn event hosted by Judy Donovan and Tammy Kramer. Abby and I went with Judy and Sherry. It was really cute the way they had everything organized and displayed but it was so COLD. It was actually snowing. They said it was colder yesterday because of the wind which I can't even imagine. I felt so bad for them cause it would have been so much nicer if the weather had cooperated. There were still lots of people, I think we are called die-hards or idiots for going shopping in such crummy conditions. Abby is working tomorrow. Hopefully they have a good turnout and make some money so they will do it again.

Trent and Addy stayed overnight on Wed. night when Abby and Tory had puppy preschool. Jon had a very busy week at work so he was not here to help me that night or the next morning getting ready for school and daycare. Wow! I did it and I wonder how I ever did it every night and morning when Abby and Adam were little. Must be that youth thing. I was so tired Thurs. night I didn't even hear Jon come home or if I did I didn't care. Still trying to talk Addy into crawling. I swear she is going to fly before she crawls or walks. She gets her arms and legs going so fast that she is apt to take off. She also lunges for anything she sees that she wants. So you better hold on tight. She will be so happy when she finally does become mobile. Trent is Trent. He didn't want to go to the Grandparent's mass with Ronda and me on Friday. I would have left him at school if it weren't for Ronda. She took the afternoon off from work so I would have felt bad if Trent wouldn't go. I did get him to agree to go but he said he wanted to go back to school as soon as mass was over. We walked him back after mass and he saw it was quiet time so he agreed to go in the gym for a cookie. Funny! Ronda finally took him back to the room and he was happy.

busy weekend

Tory had his first of many more to come speaking engagements last Saturday at Tama at the Iowa Dog Breeder's Association so Jon and mostly I took care of Stone Hollow and Trent and Addy Friday night and Saturday. I went out on Fri afternoon with Trent from school. We got out early which was good because it gave Tory and Abby time to show me the ropes before they left. We left Addy at daycare figuring she would be napping anyway. Daycare called about 3 saying that Addy was running a temp and we should come and get her. So I went in to get Addy and home to pick up a few things and then back to the Toppings. I called Jon and told him to pack a bag and come out as soon as he got off work. Addy wasn't too sick thankfully, mostly just a runny nose. We had 2 people drop dogs off that night and I just had to let the dogs out once. Jon and I went down after Addy and Trent were in bed. I had 18 dogs to take care of in the kennel and 3 dogs up at the house. I went down in the morning to let them out and feed them while Jon stayed with Addy and Trent. Thank God Jon was there to help. 2 dogs got picked up on Sat. I only had to let the rest out a couple more times and then I was done. Abby and Tory got home around 6. I was so tired Sat night I went to bed at 7 and didn't wake up til 8:30 the next morning. Maybe next time we will watch either the dogs or the kids, not both.

OMG! My last post was 2/25!!!!!!!!!!! Not sure where time goes. I always said getting older isn't scary. It's how fast time goes that's scary! I always thought that life would slow down as I got older. Not! Most of the reason that I haven't posted is that I haven't had time and I'm too tired when I do have time. Priorities. Sleep has always been a big priority with me. That and eating. Now Trent and Addy are also at the top of the list. So I will drop anything to see them or help their mom and dad out.

What's new?

Mary and Dale are going to be grandma and grandpa! Yay!! She doesn't realize what a life changer it is. All for the better. So happy for them.

I am having a Norwex party Monday night. So what am I doing posting when I should be cleaning and cooking? Mostly I just want the driveway to dry up so that people have a place to park without having to wade through 1/2 a foot of mud. Please God. I am not worried about the house inside. Not sure what snacks to do. I have to go grocery shopping today so I better get my list.

Went to Trent's Tae Kwon Do lesson w/Ashley and Addy Thursday night. Cute. It will be a good release for all of Trent's energy.

Praying for Ashley's brother, Wil. He was diagnosed with Hodegkin's Lymphoma. Prognosis is good. Please, God.

Adam was in Denison, Iowa this week for a job. May as well have been Colorado. Actually talked about going out to see him but it just didn't work out. Still not used to not being able to just go and see him whenever we want. I am getting used to him being grown up and happy where he is. That's a very good thing. Thank you, God.

School is crazy busy. 1st graders mass on the 22nd, prayer service on the 23rd and conferences on the 28th and 29th! Plus all the regular stuff! I just finished working on the all school retreat this week which went very well. We had a 2 hour delay which threw things off but we are nothing if not flexible and able to change on a moment's notice. Changed prayer service to the beginning, shortened each session to 25 minutes, shortened our lunch times and we were good to go. Praise God.

Now it is off to house work for me. Laundry and Sat cleaning. I know I am fortunate to have a house after seeing pictures of the quake and tsunami in Japan. Thanks again and praying for all of the victims.

Colorado

Thelma and Louise(aka Mary and Donna) made it safely to and from Colorado last weekend. We left on Thursday about 11:45 (30 minutes late) and made it to Sloan, Iowa at the WinnVegas casino around 5. Mary had an appt there so I waited while she sold. She got done around 7. It wasn't bad except for the smoke and the noise. I finally went into the restaurant where there was no smoking. We decided to just eat there at the buffet and then hit the road again. We drove as far as York, Nebraska and got a room there about 11:30. We were up again at 6:15 and on the road by 7. We made it to Blackhawk, which is west of Denver, up in the mountains, around 1:00. Mary's appt there wasn't til 2 so we got a bite to eat and then she went to her appt. I again waited for her to get done. Their casino was much bigger and nicer than WinnVegas. And no smoking!!!! Iowa really needs to ban smoking in their casinos. Mary's appt was lasting longer than I thought it would. I finally got a hold of Adam and he was going to come up to get me but the traffic was unreal so we decided he would meet us in Boulder. It was amazing the steady stream of people checking into the hotel at the casino. I can see why Adam didn't want to drive up in all that traffic. Besides taking him way longer than driving to Boulder. So Mary finally finished around 6, we packed her up and headed up to Boulder. I would meet Adam and she was going on up to Fort Collins to Luke's. Adam and I got back to Denver around 8. We picked up Joelle and went out to eat. Japanese Hibachi. It was very good. We went back to the apartment and crashed. It was so good to see Adam and Joelle. On Sat we slept in and then went to try to get some breakfast. The place we were going to try had people waiting in line outside. We then just went to a coffee shop, had coffee, and sat and visited. Joelle went to yoga and Adam and I headed up to Fort Collins. I stayed at Luke's the next 2 nights cause Adam and Joelle had a concert on Sat night and were going out for her birthday on Sun night. We stopped in Boulder and had lunch on our way up to Fort Collins. It was just nice spending time with Adam and visiting. I didn't care what we did. I am so happy that he is happy. I was glad that we could talk. I don't get that chance that often anymore. Denver was definitely a good move for him. I will keep praying that he keeps going in the right direction and that he makes choices that are good. He went back around 5 and then came back up to FC Sun afternoon to spend time with me again. I did leave my pillow at their apt but I told him it was an accident. Didn't mean for him to have to come back up. But he did and I was glad again to see him and spend time with him. I also met one of his former girlfriends. Stephanie somebody. Very nice girl. She is working for Luke now and is going to sell for Mary in the FC area. We spent the rest of Sunday at Falbo's. Luke had a Grateful Dead open mic that night. Different. But cool I guess. Not your usual group of people. We were also at Luke's on Sat night. He was way busy. We helped out like moms do. Just made sure to stay out of the way when they were running around making pizza and everything. He said it was his best weekend yet. I told Mary we were good luck. But we can't come out every weekend. All in all it was a great weekend. I got to see Adam. (and Joelle) Mary and I had a great time talking and we still like each other after 24 hours in the car with each other. Definitely would do it again.

Thelma and Louise

Mary and I are heading to CO later today. Mary has business appts. and is going to see Luke and I am riding along and going to see Adam and Joelle. We are leaving about 11:30 from school. Should be fun. I am looking forward to doing nothing. I will be at the mercy of Mary and Adam. Not sure where we are staying or when I will be able to see Adam but that is fine. This came up sort of last minute so Adam and Joelle have plans for Sat night. We'll see. Looking forward to seeing Adam. Hopefully the weather cooperates. Fog delays today and yesterday. Will post when I get back.

Back to school :)

Well it is back to school after 3 snow days and a delay this morning. We actually could have gone for part of the day Tuesday but that is water over the damn or snow on the roof. Today we will go at 10:20, teach for 45 minutes, go to lunch, go to recess and then go to a movie(K-2), go skating(3-6) and go bowling(7-8). Gotta love Catholic Schools Week:) I wonder if Mary will let us wear jeans on our make-up days. I think I will ask.

I have a meeting this morning at school with Mary and all the "old" teachers, those of us who are 57 or older. We are going to be offered an early retirement package. One time offer of $7500 plus $250 for each year of employment with Aquin. Wow! First of all, I have no idea where this came from. I can't believe that they are even offering us such a thing. Usually they just let you or someone else go. Secondly, I can't believe that I am old enough to be in this group. :) Thirdly, now I have to decide what I am going to do. I am the Queen of Playing it Safe and Keep the Status quo so this is really going to be hard for me to do. Teaching and having my own income is so much a part of who I am. I'm not sure how I will react to not having that. I am less worried about the lack of income for me than I am for Adam and the Toppings. I can get by on next to nothing. I just like being able to help my kids and grandkids. I know what they will say though. Just like Jon, Abby and Adam will tell me to do whatever I want to do. It might be easier if someone told me what to do but then I wouldn't want to do that cause I don't like being told what to do. Can't win. I just saw a post on Facebook that says there comes a time when you have to make a change and go with something new instead of staying with the known. Or something like that. I am taking that as a sign I maybe should take the early retirement. I guess I have a lot of praying to do and know that I will make the right decision.

Snow Day #2 and probably 3

Well I guess it's no school today. It's not that bad out right now but I guess they think it's going to get bad. Tomorrow sounds even worse so we probably won't have school tomorrow either. It is supposed to be the worst storm ever, effecting 100 million people. Blizzard conditions. Yippee! Just how I like to spend my Easter or summer vacation. Snowed in!! I actually said something to Adam about coming out over Easter vacation cause I had 6 days off. Key word had. I'm sure they will take Easter Tuesday and Wednesday away now. I should have known better. I don't think we have ever been able to take all our Easter vacation. The only good thing is Trenten and Addy are coming over. Hopefully Abby makes it home from work all right. She said she is going to watch the weather and head home if it looks bad.

It is also Catholic Schools week. It always seems to be bad weather this week. I really don't mind missing some of the craziness we do this week. That is another good thing.

We went up to Joe and Sherry's Sunday night with Mom and Dan and Judy. It was a great supper and good company. Sherry is so funny.

Helped Dan and Judy remodel and paint Chad and Carrie's kitchen while they were in Baltimore the last 2 weeks for Alec. It turned out nice and Judy said Carrie loved it. Carrie was a brave woman to let her mother-in-law work on her house while she was away. Not sure if I could have done that. It is good that Chad, Carrie and the kids got home when they did. Now Chad just has to worry about his cows calving during this blizzard. At least he is home and can do something. It would have been hell for him and Dan if this would have happened last week.

Going to eat breakfast and get ready for 2 little munchkins. No rest today!!

IAS Holiday party

Last night was the IAS holiday party at the Grand Harbor in Dbq. We stayed at the Julien instead. The room was very nice. A lot nicer than Grand Harbor's I hear. Started partying in our room with Dempsey, Zach, Mike and Ronda. Then went over to the Grand Harbor for drinks, dinner, awards, entertainment and prizes. Dinner was great. Entertainment was so-so. Hypmotist(sp) was the best part. Not as good as Jim Wand the last time. Jon won a DVD player which he immediately gave to Dempsey. I didn't even know he won let alone know that he gave it away. I know we have one but it would have been a nice gift for someone, other than Dempsey. Jon could have at least asked me before he gave it away. Dempsey was in fine form, like usual. Drunk and entertaining. Not sure if he will ever grow up. But he did have fun and people do enjoy him. We also went to the Diamond Joe later. I know why we never go there. Smokey and noisy. Teaching isn't so bad when you see the workers there. I would hate to have to work there. Went back to the hotel about 12:30, leaving Zach and Dempsey at the Diamond Joe. Not sure when they left but Zach said he had to walk back. Brrrrrrrrrr. They actually called this morning around 10:15, already checked out and ready for breakfast. We went down, checked out and ate breakfast with them at Caroline's, the restaurant at the Julien. Dempsey ordered a $12 carafe of orange juice. He was very thirsty but actually not too hungover. He was out of money and Zach lost $200 gambling so we bought their breakfast. Maybe that's why they called us.

TGIF

Yay!!!!!!!!!!!!! It is Friday and no report cards to do. I can't describe the feeling of relief I have when those reports are finally done. Only teachers know how good it feels when those report cards are done and sent home. Now we just wait to hear from parents and what they think.

It is also the IAS Christmas party weekend at Grand Harbor. I am so glad it is this weekend and not last weekend. I can really enjoy it. We are staying at the Julian but that is ok. Most of Jon's co-workers are staying there too. I hear their rooms are nice. After our suite at the Grand Harbor last year, I knew that an ordinary room would be a let down. Anyway, I am looking forward to RELAXING big time.

It was REALLY cold this morning. 17 below but no wind. It is only going to be 0 tonight so it didn't last long. I am almost starting to envy these people who leave for a month or 2 during the winter. I just can't see leaving Trenten and Miss Addy for that long. I would miss them tooooo much. They are worth the cold and the snow. And we have geo now so our house is really warm. So I guess I have to put up with these cold Iowa winters for a while.

Report cards done!!

I think my report cards are finally done. At least till I think about them some more and wonder if I should change a grade. I hate second guessing myself. In reality who really cares if it was a D or I, 2 or 3? Ten years or even 1 year from now no one will remember what his or her grade was in 1st grade or 5th grade.

Talked to Adam last night and it sounds like he had a great time skiing in Vale. I am so happy for him because he is happy. Colorado has been good for him. It will be 6 months all ready at the end of the month. Wow. Seems like we just packed him up and said good by and good luck. Not sure if or when he might move back to Iowa but CO is is where he is now and it's a good place for him. Just wish he was closer. I would like to get out to see him this winter yet but not sure if that will happen.

We got another pretty snow yesterday. It was MLK day so the kids didn't have school but we still had in-service @ Xavier in the a.m. Then Mary told us we could go home. Yay. Then Jon drove me to my dentist appt. in Dbq at 2:30. Roads were snow covered but drivable if you took your time. I was glad Jon was driving. He is an excellent driver, you know. We had a 2 hour delay today. I really should get going. Couple stops to make before school and stuff to do at school.

Friday night social

Mike, Ronda, Dempsey and Zach came out last night for drinks and dinner. Good food and good time. Dempsey is such a storyteller. Laughed til I almost peed my pants. Food wasn't bad either if I do say so myself. Steaks AND marinated chicken breasts, Olive Garden salad, fire-roasted vegetables, grape salad, deviled eggs and warm apple pie and ice cream for desert. MMMM! Oh I forgot the appetizers before, hot cheesy dip and black bean/chicken/spinach dip. And all this with Trent and Addy after school. Abby called at 2:00 and asked if I could take them home from preschool and daycare. I just can't say no. Needless to say it was a rush cause I didn't even know who or how many were coming til yesterday at noon. It made it easier when only 4 out of a possible 12 could come. We got it done though and it was a fun night. They didn't want to play cards tho. Just sat around talking. And laughing!

Trenten funny story3

We were coming home from school yesterday and stopped to see Papa at work. When I pulled out of IAS the road was slick and I started to swerve. I told Trent I better be careful because it was slick. Trent then said we should tell Papa it was slick but that he would be ok cause Papa is "an excellent driver" not like Mama. Papa doesn't get stuck or slide like Mama. Sure, almost go in the ditch 1 time and have to get rescued by Papa and I will never live it down.

Where does time go?

Made it through the first full week of school for 2011. Just have to get my report cards done by next Monday, the 17th. The semester ends on Fri. the 14th. We have in-service on Mon. the 17th with exactly 1/2 hour to work on our report cards, from 3-3:30. So that means I have to work on them at night (too tired) or on the weekends (hate to do that too). Why do they give us clerical days and not let us use them for report cards. Did I ever mention how much I hate report cards and conferences. I just like to teach. That's all. Oh and June, July and August.

I finished Catching Fire, last of the Hunger Games series. All three books were books that you had to finish to find out what happens. I recommend all. And you have to read them in order. Not sure what to read next. After I finish my report cards.

Went to Cranberry Hollow yesterday for the final time. Kind of sad. Bought a shelf for Addy's room and a few other things. Abby says the red shelf we got for Trenten's room looks flippin cute. And the shelf for their bedroom works great too. We got my cupboard home from Hickory Hill on Wed. Dempsey helped Jon and me load and unload it. We just put it in the garage for now. I thought it looked different when we got it home but then you always notice things about antiques at home that you didn't notice at the store. Anyway, when Abby saw it she said it was upside down. Too funny! Well, Hickory Hill and Cranberry Hollow are now history. I will miss them but I will also be richer for it. Save big money.

Also went to Ashley's bb game at Beckman yesterday. Then went to Dbq with Tory, Abby and miss Addy. Trent and Papa came home. They also dropped Ashley off at her house. As we were getting ready to leave the game Trent just started sobbing. Abby asked him what was wrong, he said he didn't want Ashley to go with Ronda and Alan. He was so sad that he wouldn't get to see her. So she rode home with Papa and Trent. That made him feel better. He loves and misses his big sister. :(

Went to the Monastery for mass this morning and then to Dbq to pick up a few things. Am now just killing time, putting off working on my reports cards. Did I mention I hate doing report cards? Gotta go. Maybe I can get them done today yet. :)

Back to school :(

Well 2011 is here and Christmas vacation is over tomorrow at 7:45. Back to the real world. It was a very good vacation, so I shouldn't complain too much. But there is something about being able to sleep in (2 mornings out of 11) and being on your own schedule. What's not to like about that?

Went to Mary and Paul's this afternoon for supper. After we went to Abby and Tory's for breakfast and then to Dbq for a few groceries. Marlene was there, too. It was good to see both of them. Saw Mary and Paul's new addition to the house. Nice. I really like the fireplace. I want one of those. Maybe it will happen someday.

Took Abby's birthday present out this morning. An old cabinet for their bedroom. It should work where she wanted it in their bedroom.

I am going to bed since I can't sleep in tomorrow morning. I went to bed at 8:30 last night and Jon had to wake me up at 8:00 this morning. I was really tired from the night before. I don't think I am caught up yet. Night all.