Cottage d'Orr

And baby makes 4 at Cottage d'Orr

2011-04-05T17:18:00.000-07:00

Well its been 1 year since I've posted anything on this blog.... time flies when lots going on. Last June we found out we were having baby #2 due in January 2011....and WOW what a journey that was. I ended up home for nearly 4 months before TJ arrived Jan 14th. It was what I affectionally call "House Arrest"... I did alot of knitting though. Anyone want a blanket? scarf? gloves? Seriously!!!! Now TJ is fussing... a common occurance, so I had better see what little man needs. I can guess! Be back soon... H

Howdy from Cottage d'Orr

2010-04-16T13:55:00.000-07:00

TT & B dining out Fri 4/10
Silly cousins TT, B & Cole

The "JumpHouse Gang" B, TT, C & A Spring Brk week 2010

My boys dining out 4/10

The latest? ITS SPRING!

Thought I'd pop in for a quick hello & let ya'all know what shaking.

The tulips are blooming, the bluebells are a riot everywhere in the yard. My newly planted landscaping survived the winter (we had winter??). things are shaping up & looking great after all summer 2009 hard work.

TT is 4 now. Enjoying school ALOT. He is such a whirlwind of laughter, silliness, stubborness, feistyness and all boy! We have more NASCAR, dinosaurs, CARS, and trains & track to supply a daycare center

Le Jardin, Chateau et Cathederals

2010-01-09T17:35:00.000-08:00

Paris Gardens, Castles & Cathederals ~ from the same website, none are mine & photographer name is on each individual frame.

A few of these locations I have been too, seen & touched & photographed.

Others I still desire to visit & experience.

Please enjoy with a glass of wine~

Paris Streets & Storefronts

2010-01-09T17:23:00.000-08:00

Paris Streets & Storefronts ~ I found this amazing website, with some mind blowing photos of Paris.

None of these photos are mine or taken by me. The photographers name is attached on each photo above & I believe are for sale via the website.

Some are so romantic, whimsical, OLD, antique, simply vintage, and very very French.

I fell in love as I adore France.

Please enjoy some of my favourites.

A Day at the Museum

2010-01-09T16:57:00.000-08:00

Allosaurus

Apatasaurus

Parasaurolophus

Stegesaurus

T-Rex

Veliceraptor

Triceretops
Thomas lifiting the heavy triangle
Thomas & TT attempting it together

TT & I took our first "in the photo booth" picture at the museum

TT is enamoured of Dinosaurs...like most 4 year olds.

I have learned many of them, even how to pronounce their names ((no laughing here)), and whom is what right along with the wee bug.

Good thing I like dinosaurs as its the total "thing" here at Cottage d'Orr.

So I went online this morning while TT was eating his dino oatmeal to look for some local museums to see if any had any dinosaur exhibits.

VOILA!!!

The Pacific Science Center has a perm dino exhibit we could go see.

So we packed up & headed out.

TT enjoyed what we saw. He wasn't at all afraid like he was in Milwakee...the one in Milwaukee was darker, in a cave like area, with dinosaur sounds, growls, hunting, whistling & whatnot. Plus he was already tired & needed a nap. So taking that all into consideration at the time, he was scared there. After their butterfly exhibit, which calmed him, he was in a better frame of mind to enjoy the museum in WI.

I do have to say that the museum in Milwaukee is SO MUCH BETTER than the one here.

The one here totally needs a facelift & redo of several of its perm exhibits. I did really enjoy the dinosaurs, and their HUGE butterfly exhibit, yet overall, I was not impressed after seeing the museum in Milwaukee.

Anyhoo.... it was fun, we enjoyed the afternoon & got out of the house on the one sunny day we"ve had in a long time.

Enjoy the photos!

Merry Christmas from Wisconsin

2010-01-09T16:15:00.000-08:00

We decided, on a wild hair in July 2009, about heading to WI to see family for Christmas.

Peeked online & kept finding only an airline I had never heard of, AirTran, with non stop flights to WI. WOW low & behold I found several DIRECT FLIGHT for $187 p/p with AirTran!!

So we called the family, asked them, told them what we found for airfare, which we received a "hell ya buy the tickets!"

December arrives ((minus the crazy snow we had last Christmas 2008) and off we go for our adventure in the tundra of Milwuakee & vicinity. It was cold, yuppers. There was a ton of snow, yuppers. Yet it wasn't as frozen cold as we expected, amen!

TT loved the snow. Momma here loved the snow. Papa loved it for about 2 days, then he was done with it.

It snowed almost everyday, sometimes all day. Exception was Christmas day with RAIN!!!! Come on, I can get that crap at home for FREE! Then Christmas evening the temp dropped again to something like 11 degrees after it had been ((what they call a warm 31??!!??!!)) and started snowing all over again much to MY happiness.

One evening before Christmas, after cousin Diri came home from the hot & sexy salon, she and I grabbed shovels and shoveled snow off the driveway. First time ever for me. We had a great time. Even got into a snowball fight.

She & I did some "shop til midnight" one Saturday. HA if you can call 15 min at Wal-Mart before they closed at 10. Then scooted over to MARSHALLS ((love her Marshall store!!)) for 1 hour and closed that down at 11pm. Then drove over to Kohls ((never been to one)) and closed that one down at midnight. Did we get much? Yes & No. We had alot of laughs though. I think her three shots of Crown & my rum & coke before going out made the night totally hilarious.

Where was Thomas? Home, passed out in bed with TT. He is not a night person.

Where was Chuck? Home, watching tv, totally encouraging us girls to GO OUT.

Next time, Jenni you must come with us. Its just that Jenni wasn't back from visiting her family somewhere north in the frozen WI tundra with Ben.

Christmas day TT allowed us all to sleep in til 7am... SHOCK! And Ben was the second one up. I was up, making the coffee... that house NEEDS CAFFEINE to function. Totally like our house for sure. Then everyone took turnes opening & "ooowww" and "aaaww' over their treasures. I think TT simply enjoyed the opening part more than the tresure part with exception of his Thomas the train blanket he received from Jenni & Ben ((THANK YOU SOOOO MUCH AGAIN)). Its on his bed right now as his coverlet.

After all gifts were opened, then started the marshmellow war as everyone received marshmellow guns! TT was one of the big kids for sure.

Then the family arrived about 2pm for dinner, drinks and more gift openings.

TT loved seeing his granpa Jim & grandma Kay, Auntie Karlene and had cousins Daphne (almost 4) & Brianne (20 mos) to play with. TT wasin heaven til everyone left & he passed out.

We relaxed the days after christmas, enjoyed playing in the snow, going for walks, looked at a few homes for sale in their neighborhood, went sleding, and Diri & I saw NEW MOON at the 9:30pm showing. When we got out of the movie is was like 9 degrees. The snow looked like diamonds ((made me think of Edward!!))

I loved it there. Hated to leave. Didn't want to leave. None of us did really.

The flight home was a late nighter, where I beleive I slept the entire 3 1/2 hours with a passed out child curled up on my lap.

My sis Rish was awaiting us to bring us home.

WOW could NOT believe time went that fast.

I want to rewind & do over.

Merry Christmas everyone~

Wee Bugs 4th Birthday Bash - 12/6

2010-01-09T16:06:00.000-08:00

The bounce house "aka CARS" as there was no Dino house
Dino Decorations

Dino decorations

TT waves howdy its my party day

I cannot BELIEVE the wee bug is turning 4~

Wasn't he just born? Weren't we just teaching him how to walk, and then now to slow down walk don't run? Gads do I sound like MY parents????

Yuppers TT had his 4th birthday bash here at Cottage d'Orr on Sunday Dec 6th.

It was FREEZING outside yet the children jumped forever. I thinkg TT jumped the longest because he was so numb her could not feel his fingers, toes, nose or any other body part!

He had cousins Salyna, Cohen, Colten, Kysa & Kiera here to celebrate.

He had school friends Vicki (his sweetie in preschool) & friend Jaeger here as well.

He had other good friends come to play as well.

It was a DINOSAUR success party complete with Dino candles & a Triceretops on the cake to boot. There were Dino decorations & balloons.

Its was DINO-MITE!

Happy Birthday My Sweet

2009-12-29T08:37:00.001-08:00

Howdy! Long time since I've popped onto my blog to post an update. I've been like a crazed person these past 3 months... LORD where ever did the time go? I thought it was just September a moment ago.

So I got a wild idea to celebrate Thomas's birthday this year. Found this great Farkle game in the Current INC magazine, so I text my sister Rish to ask her what she thought. She text me back that it would be a fantastic idea for a birthday theme... "so get it!" she text me back.

I ordered it... it arrived... I popped online to create some invites via Walgrens ((serious check them out)), and sent them out as soon as I could.

It was mad fun planning, slightly in secret. I opted to have Thomas's birthday cake made at the same place we had our wedding cake made. Went to http://www.thepioneerbakery.com/

They made a Starbucks themed cake! It was amazing.It was a Farkle Party and everyone "Farkled On!".

The Trick or Treat Gang of Emerald Way

2009-11-04T13:48:00.000-08:00

Ninja ~ Bat Girl ~ Lightening McQueen Pit Crew member
Lightening McQueen #1 Pit Crew

Your BAT GIRL!

The night was PERFECT! No rain, was crispy & clear, not overcast, with a near full moon & the occasional wispy grey cloud passing over the Halloween Moon!

The gang terrorized the streets, banging on doors, hollering out "trick or treat", then breaking down into a fit of giggles. There were a few "Race you to the door" and much competition to whom was going to knock on the next door between Pit Crew & Bat Girl.

Overall the Gang did wonderful on the candy stock piles!

The evening ended with some tears.... of exhaustion from Tricia and I... no wait, it was Pit Crew whom finally fell into exhaustion about 8pm.

Next year Tricia and I are carrying our wine glasses~

Halloween Cookies at Cottage d'Orr

2009-10-26T11:32:00.000-07:00

Plate full of successful decorating! 2 black cats, 2 ghosts and 2 pumkpins.
Plate #2of pumpkins & 2 ghosts

T getting into decorating.

The boys working to decorate the Halloween cookies.

The cookies ready to go into the oven.

The petite chef

Ahhhh sweet success~

Its a Sunday at Cottage d'Orr and what a perfect time to get into making Halloween cookies. Origianally the hunt was for skeleton cu outs. We found none on our search. Therefore we settled for a bunch of pumpkins, ghosts, moons and cats. We rolled out the dough, plenty was stuck to us and the rolling pin. TT cut them out, placed them on the cookie sheet, and in the oventhey went.

When the cookies were all done, both TT & T were eager to start being creative and decorate. TT was more anxious about putting on the sprinkles than the frosting... yet seeing his photo, I think sprinkles & frosting were delicious.

We had a great time. Later this afternoon, we went to a Pumpkin Carving Party... I'll attachthose pumpkin photos in another blog.

JASON ALDEAN!!!!!!!

2009-10-13T13:53:00.000-07:00

Yehaw!
Watchin the rodeo before the concert.

Jason Aldean at the Fair opening day 9/11/09

Gettie Up there lil doggie! Wish I had a better camera.

My girl Amber enjoying Jason.

KMPS had a special for early bird Jason Aldean concert tickets for opening day at the fair way way way back in February 2009. So cowgirl here got online and bought us 2.

Somewhere between then and September, GOD ONLY KNOWS where those tickets went since I put them in such a fantastic safe spot. Geez!!

Emailed Ticketmaster, and low and behold youwould not believe it, they actually REISSUED new tickets! I just went to pick them up a few hours before the concert started on the 11th. WOW I am impressed. ((p.s. its 10/13/09 and I have still not found those original tickets))

Get this.. the Fair has even gotten on board with not just 1, not just 2, but THREE BEER GARDENS! Amber & her man, along with me & my man, meandered on over to the Bucking Chute Bistro ((you tell me, does the words "Bucking Chute" and "Bistro" belong in the same sentence for an establishment? I think NOT. Should have been "Bucking Chute Saloon" for crying out loud!!)) outside of the concert main stage and par-took in a few. I had one for my best girl Kerry & my Spring Break Crew ((shout out!!)). They had a delicious Pumpkin something or other beer I wish i could remember the name... wait wait I am talking about the concert, oops I digress....

ok back in the main stage concert, lights dim, insanity begins, screaming and whailing, VOILA out walks JASON LICK ME ALDEAN. I sand just about every song as well as danced my hat off. Thomas was impressed after the concert ((he hadn't ever heard of Jason Aldean til I mentioned we were going to the concert)) with his style, songs and entertainment. It was a great night at the Fair!

Wee Pumpkin Patch Cherubs

2009-10-13T13:51:00.000-07:00

A co-worker shared his photos of his Pumpkin Cherubs out and about looking for their perfect carving Halloween pumpkin. Little D & A are precious as ever. Thanks for the photos Proud Papa Dougie Fresh

Football Sunday! GO SEAHAWKS!!

2009-10-13T11:10:00.000-07:00

Look how serious he is watching the game.
This is was our view. Not much happened at this goal.. ha ha Seattle = 39 & Jaguars = 0

Seahawks at the Jag end zone
The fight for another Seahawk touch down, yeah baby!

The fans

Pre game departure photo! See it was super sunny.

We went to a GLORIOUSLY SUNNY football game this past Sunday at the local Stadium. IT was so warm out people were stripping off the layers. For those of you whom know Washington, this is not commonplace, yet it rocks!! There were no complaints from me.
The Seahawks kicks some Jag butt back and forth on the field. Final score, I believe was something like 39 Seahawks to NOTHING Jags.... See the photos~

P.S. What I could not get over was it was $8.25 for BUDWEISER! Are you for serious? GAG!! I did locate a real beverage vendor selling real beer like Widmer, ESB and a lovely Shock Ale! mmmmm

Tricycle Built for Two!!

2009-09-26T17:52:00.001-07:00

TT was playing with his Thomas the Tank Engine tricycle in the back when I caught he and T playing like this... so I changed the camera to film, and this is what I captured below:

The Flyer part 2

2009-09-26T17:34:00.000-07:00

So you can see whom the airplanes truly belongs to from these photos. They rode that poor Tigger & Pooh airplane up and down the driveway for about an hour before I saw them and caught them on film. Boys will be crazy boys.

The T & T Airplane Flyer

2009-09-26T17:28:00.000-07:00

Need I say anything? I mean seriously? Whose toy do you think this really belongs too? wait there is more. See next posting....

Detour to Westport

2009-09-26T16:55:00.000-07:00

One glorious Friday in July or August, my sister and I got a wild spur of the moment idea to pack up the kids & van and head for Ocean Shores to spend the day since its been about 100 everyday lately.... the ocean was supposed to be a balmly 80 ((and for those whom are familiar with Ocean Shores it NEVER gets above 75...))

So while we were heading south & then west, we saw 2 signs... Ocean Shores - RIGHT and Westport - LEFT. We'll we've never been to Westport, not that we can recall, so we took a wild LEFT and headed to the port.

Excellent idea! As you can see from the photos, we were the ONLY PEOPLE on the beach besides about 100 seagulls. Seriously! We had the beach all to ourselves pretty much all day long. It was not windy like at Ocean Shores, unless you walked around the bend where all the wind surfers were parked & surfing.

We found pre made forts made out of drift LOGS ((hell they were logs not "wood")) and set up base camp at one of them. Another photo shows the larger log cabin we found farther down the beach. The kids LOVED the water. My nephew loved it so much he didn't bother to change his pants to his swim shorts, he just dove right in. My child was more interested in how much sand he could get in cracks & places as well as in his train. Later in the afternoon he braved the crashing waves with me to chase & be chased by the surf.

It was the best! On the way home we detoured to Westport Winery. Found myself a nice Bordello Blonde that claime d"she goes with everything and anything". Well the titled lived up to the smooth delicious taste of that white wine.... http://www.westportwines.com/

I highly recommend the visit. Sis and I are planning to go back and take a few girl pals with us.

Big Girl Fancy Nancy Birthday Party

2009-09-26T16:28:00.001-07:00

It was Kysa's 5th birthday bash complete with jump house & pink party favours. It was a wonderful birthday celebration. Please see attached video of the crazy brothers dodge ball..

Lets add another birthday!

2009-09-26T15:50:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to Tricia. We celebrated SURPRISE like style at her house. She had been out to dinner at her favourite restaurant, then arrived home to find her family & friends awaiting. She wanted a Harry Potter ice cream cake... and being close to last minute to ordering such a treat, sister here bought a Harry Potter Christmas tree ornamen and stuck it on said cake ((see photo)). Plus we could not locate enough candles to place on the cake witout starting the fire alarm, we improvized ((also see photo)).

She was very surrpised.

A night at Ranchitos

2009-09-26T15:39:00.000-07:00

You never know what's going to happen when we go out to dinner at our local Ranchitos. So this evening I brought my camera to capture silly moments with my boys.

Where did the summer go?

2009-09-16T18:47:00.001-07:00

Here it is the MIDDLE of September, and I am asking myself, where in the heavens did the Summer of 2009 go? I have ideas... Memorial Day toe injury began the summer, then a surgery to fix the toe, the it was time to begin the round of Highland Games beginning with the Bellingham event the first week-end of June at Hovander Homestead Park. It was fantastic! I was able to spend some fantastic time with my best girl Didi, her momma Vic, and voila me. They had never been to an event like that, thus totally enjoyed the colors, sounds, sights and of course, the Boundary Bay special brew made just for the Bham Games. Delicious!!
Next thing you know there were other games rolling along to attend or volunteer. All while this is happening, we were ripping up the nasty old deck, and slowly re-doing it as schedules allowed. Granted our summer was HOT, dry, sunny, nearly every day from Memorial through to mid August. Then there was finally establishing the front yard landscaping beginning Mothers Day week-end and finally finishing it just days before Labour Day. Whew... now I can enjoy it.. next summer when it grows more into itself. It'll look fantastic.
We did no real camping to speak of except Memorial Day at Ocean Shores and Labour Day over of Blewett pass near Leavenworth. It rained that week-end only to find out at home there was a TORNADO!! Yes you heard it correctly. Out near Enumclaw & Buckley which is a mere 30 min drive away. We had more rain in that one Sunday Sep 6th than we did all of August. WOW!!! Yes I am in Washington still.
I have a ton of photos to attach too. Oh yes there was the Thomas the Train trip to Snoqualmie in July. The Seattle Highland Games the end of July. Oh yes the Tacoma games I think was end of June. Thomas, Trenten and I had a great time at that one. Trenten is beginning to like the Highland Games.
August brought our 1 year anniversary. Wow time went by for sure. August was just yard work, house work, Fridays off with Trenten, a Westport trip wih my sister and niece & nephew. We had a blast there versus Ocean Shores. We also found & fell in love with the Westport Winery. It is a MUST GO SEE for sure. Took about an hour to get home from there... so worth the trip anytime. Love the ocean.
We spent some quality time with my best girl Didi and her gorgeous girls Oni & Gabbi. Trenten loves spending time with his cousins. I really wish we lived closer than an hour in-between us. We were there for the girls last of school. They all got to honk the school bus horn when they were departing the bus. Was a loud send off to summer.
ok ok enough rambling, time to post some of these summertime crazy photos.
Then you can see for yourself.
Hugs, Heidi

1 Year Ago August 9th

2009-08-03T14:47:00.000-07:00

This song from the mid 1990's brings to mind how much I adore & love my Thomas.

For you my sweet:

by SAVAGE GARDEN

Maybe it's intuition

But some things you just don't question

Like in your eyes

I see my future in an instant

And there it goes

I think I've found my best friend

I know that it might sound more than a little crazy

But I believe

I knew I loved you before I met you

I think I dreamed you into life

I knew I loved you before I met you

I have been waiting all my life

There's just no rhyme or reason

Only this sense of completion

And in your eyes

I see the missing pieces

I'm searching for

I think I've found my way home

I know that it might sound more than a little crazy

But I believe

I knew I loved you before I met you

I think I dreamed you into life

I knew I loved you before I met you

I have been waiting all my life

(add the whos here)

A thousand angels dance around you

(and the whos here)

I am complete now that I've found you

(and the whos here)

I knew I loved you before I met you

I think I dreamed you into life

I knew I loved you before I met you

I have been waiting all my life

(and the whos here)

Thomas the Tank Engine revisted this July

2009-07-29T12:29:00.000-07:00

Planning the strategy
I'm planning momma

Stop taking my picture momma

All aboard says TT

TT and a friend on the train

High 5 papa

Enjoying the view

Swapping stories

Playing with one of the many playsets

On our way to see Thomas the Tank Engine says Papa

Engineer for the day of Thomas

Northwest Rail Museum sponsored event

The book store we did visit after the ride.

Inside the coach

One of the quaint shops in Snoqualmie

Conductor checking tickets the old fashioned way

The old PSE 1890 station

PSE Station & hotel in background

The Falls

Thomas enjoying "his day out" ha ha

PSE owned 1890 power station @ Snoqualmie Falls

The Snoqualmie falls depot

Its a Happy Thomas @ Snoqualmie

Thomas the Tank Engine "driver"

Sunday Summer Fun thru TT's eyes

2009-07-29T12:14:00.001-07:00

Its a glorious Sunday at his auntie Rish house. Home made slip and slide. Water & TT grabs the camera. Where am I through all of this? Helping make dinner in the house. Later when I got home I noticed all these photos on the camera. I loved them I decided to save every one he took. I think he captured the moment pretty darn well. What do you think? Good job TT!

Through the Eyes of my Three year old

2009-07-29T11:53:00.000-07:00

His African Dwarf Frogs "jumpy" and "Hoppy"

Thomas the Tank Engine & toes

The necessities of a 3 year olds life!

Eric & momma @ Tacoma games

Self portrait. I love these.

Eric's daughter, Piper. TT's first infant photo.

Said toe

Kitchen

Cookies TT?

Toes

Playset & pool

Lightening McQueen and Frances from "Bugs Life"

Gone

Going

There Lightening goes

Kitchen computer area

TT's bird feeder

His play toys

Self portrait

Attached are photos I affectionately call "By TT". Most of these were taken end 2008 and up til end of May when he had his toe surgery. You'll see in a few photos his toe.

I let him take my camera, or he just takes it & I find out later when I do not recognize any of the photos, and take pictures of whatever he sees. The result is adorable and also helps me to better understand the world through his eyes and at his height.

Its precious. enjoy!

What's Shakin!

2009-06-23T21:47:00.000-07:00

Howdy. Been awhile since I've posted anything on this here blog. Been busy!
Gardening, re-decking, work, house up-keep...you know the usual domestic nonsense.
We've had near 30 days straight sunshine, no rain, no clouds, breezes, and then VOILA on Fathers Day, out of no where & I swear just on us, a serious downpour with thunder and lightening just happened. We were on our way to McClendon's to purchase more stain and lawn seed. The clouds looked black, yet I wasn't super worried. Rain wasn't forecasted. For the first time ever, we started believing in the weather man. HA!
Heidi here had forgotten to roll up her car windows. Lets say thank GOD for leather as it wipes down well. As for the carpet, I hope it dried out by now. Hasn't rained since Sunday.
After the boys were in bed, and it was near 9pm, the rain still coming down, I went out on the front porch, sat there and enjoyed the warm weather as it poured buckets. Love summer storms.
Trenten's toe has healed right nice. The toenail may take a while to re grow, yet its determined to re grow. Hasn't stopped that child one bit, to which we are thankful for that.
Trenten is right out there with Thomas, hammering away on the deck boards "helping papa". Everyday when I get home from work, he shares what he and papa have been working on in the back yard. Its precious.
Thomas is on his THIRD week of working the "opening" shift at his work. Yeah it was supposed to be just three weeks, then thing return to normal for the week of July 4th holiday. He would be off before noon Friday so we could hook up the trailer ((thank you Tricia & Tony)) and head south. YEAH RIGHT! Thomas tells me after I get home that all plans have gone sideways. He need sto work this shift yet another week, possibly two! The only positive is, Thomas is home with Trenten from 10:30 on. Our new sitter Kourtney is thus FREE!! Working right nice for her first week of new employment. She thinks our TT is a "breeze". Also is wonderful that she has been his evening and sometime week-end sitter / playmate. He adores her....
Sooooo another week of insane sleeping patterns, attempting to keep TT quiet from about 7:30 til he falls asleep, and getting home to have dinner, coffee, lunches and work stuff ready for the next day by 8pm! DOWN TIME? I have no idea what that is, and its alright with me.
So that is the latest with Cottage d'Orr. No big plans for travel. No big plans for much other than HOUSE HOUSE HOUSE ((floors, windows, front door, garage door and that is plenty for now)).
We are taking financial donations!! Just send your $$ to our POB!
HA HA HA

Time for this momma to go to bed! 4:30 comes to damn early.
H.

Footsies

2009-06-10T06:28:00.001-07:00

Sisters play in the sand. Maesa & new baby sister Nahla play in the Florida sand. From proud daddy Coby.

Back to my Celtic Roots

2009-06-09T07:29:00.000-07:00

Highland Dance competition

Bikers in Christ!! A Celtic minister on a Harley ~ gotta love it

Athletes

Pipers

I stole these from my girl Didi of NATURAL APPROACH PHOTO... enjoy!

Attended the Bellingham Highland Games at Hovander Homestead Park in Ferndale on Saturday June 6th. It was heaven having my Celtic cup refilled, and no I am not talking about my beer mug, though that was filled a few times ~

Kathleen

2009-06-08T12:35:00.000-07:00

I will miss you! Terribly & for always.
You were the best, most amazing woman I had the privledge to know and grow with. A very elegant lady. Damn good Mary Kay director. Be in peace now. You gave an amazing battle.
All my love
Heidi

Ouch!!

2009-06-07T20:17:00.000-07:00

After the surgery. Sat 5/30
Before surgery, Tues 5/26

On Memorial Day, as we were gearing up to make hotdogs and hamburgers on the grill, our wee bug tripped and got what we thought was a sliver under his left big toe nail.

Trip to the ER with his auntie Rish, cousins Cohen & Salyna, and momma, they made us wait from 4:45 til 7:30 to tell us they could electrically numb it, then remove it and he would lose his toe nail, yet the ER doctor kept telling us his toe nail was too short and she didn't want to touch it. Receommeded he see if his body rejects it and nail grows in 4 days. Come back if he gets a fever or in serious pain.

yeah..... so 4 days go by without him complaining much at all. Make the appointment with Dr Tutihasi for Friday 5/29.

Friday comes, off we go to see Dr. Tutihasi. She peeks at it then goes next door to a foot doc. He and she discuss "doctor language" regarding his toe, toe nail, and the foreign body.

Conclusion: (1) Hog tie him, numb the toe, remove the toe nail, remove foreign object, all while he is screaming ((happened last July when we had to cocoon wrap him to remove a sliver from same said left big toe and I was not looking forward to that again though I'd do anything to help TT)) (2) Surgery at 5pm to remove foreign object and he would loose a toenail.

So we walked to Admissions at 11am, registered him, while I was feeding him al ight snack ASAP before the deadline of the 5pm surgery. I won't go into great detail regarding my experience with a certain person, Bonnie, whom never introduced herself to me either time she approached me, I had to ask another lady her name, and critized me in front of all the other waiting patients about feeding him 6 hours before surgery... WENCH.... anyway admissions done, Theresa at St Joes admitting is an ANGEL.

5pm arrives: Thomas, TT and I have been in the waiting get ready room since 3:30pm. Auntie Rish, Cohen and Salyna came too. Support and it was needed.

They gave TT loopy meds to relax him, and then they took him. I never ever felt so helpless watching my baby be wheeled away from me and there was nothing I could do to be with him. Tears kept rolling down my cheeks the full "30 minute" surgery. Thomas and I strolled around and he held my hand.

5:35pm comes and a nurse, another angel, brought us back to the recovery area. We waited and waited for TT. Then he arrived and was a mess. He was crying and shaking, shoving, hitting and kicking. The nurses prepared us with the crying and "out of it" bit, yet nothing prepared us for the longest ride home in our lives. TT was screaming, kicking, hitting me non stop, trying to pull his bandage off repeatedly to where I had to hold his feet apart. He'd hit me harder and scream more. I began to cry and Thomas drove beyond the speed limit to get us home.

Once home about 7pm, it took another 20 min for TT to recover. He'd throw his birdie fuzzy, then want it. He'd throw food, then want it. He didn't want this video on and then he did. I was nuts. Thomas was nuts. So finally Thomas left to go get some food when TT looked over at me and said in the most beautiful voice I love "Hi momma". He was fine now. Thomas brought him some french fries as a treat. Then he passed out not long after.

Summer Heat finally hits us!!

2009-06-07T20:06:00.000-07:00

Sister Rish enjoying some rays
Yes?
Look momma

TT time in the pool, with a train of course!

My wee bug ... 3 1/2 now

Howdy everyone. Believe it or not, I think we HAD our summer and its over now. We had nearly 2 weeks straight of sunshine. Temperatures reached in the mid 90's too. It was HOT and it was HUMID. I loved every bit of it too.

June 15th: Correction! The heat & sunshine is still with us, though yesterday the sun did not pop out til well after 4pm. That was just right fine with Thomas and I as we had just put down a nice layer of weatherfroofing Cedar stain on the new main deck. Direct hot sun & humidity is not ideal for this process. So, that shared, SUMMER TIME IS STILL HERE!!! No rain since before Memorial Day week-end. Its freaking amazing!!!!!

Juneteenth

2009-06-02T07:55:00.000-07:00

140TH - 15OTH ANNIVERSARY CAMPAIGN
http://www.juneteenth.com/140th_anniversary.htm

The year 2005 marked the 140th year anniversary of Juneteenth.
All across the United States, and beyond, celebrations commemorated this historical event of 1865 in Galveston, Texas. There, on June 19th, when word of the emancipation proclamation finally reached the enslaved, a new and uncertain way of life began.
Today, more than 144 years since, African Americans have elevated this celebration, publicly and privately to one of the most important of the year.
The 140th year anniversary celebrations across the U.S. marked a significant milestone in American history. Juneteenth serves symbolically, and in reality, as a reference point from which to measure and appreciate the progress and contributions made by African Americans to this society.
And, with even more excitement, anticipation and world wide participation, the 150th anniversary campaign is underway.
Juneteenth promotes unity and builds self-esteem through reflection, education, and through acknowledgement of achievements. Today, people of all races, nationalities and ethnicities join together to support and participate in Juneteenth celebrations - a true testament to humanity

What is Memorial Day?

2009-05-22T06:47:00.000-07:00

1860's

Decoration Day Parade, Texas, 1916
General Gerard St. George Walker grave, 1920
Sheet music in celebration

Cérémonie du "Memorial Day" au Cimetière Américain de Suresnes, le 30 Mai 1920
Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service.

5/22/09: I just received this from a wonderful friend Coby He is a fire fighter, one whom serves and protects the citizens with his life every day.... he may not be a soldier in a war, yet he is a protector.

"As we enter the 2009 Memorial Day holiday, please take a few moments to reflect on the purpose of the event, and if you feel so compelled, reflect on the freedoms we enjoy as Americans. For being such a young country, our veterans have paid an enormous price for us being able to say what we want to say, read what we want to read, and worship whatever higher spirit you choose to place your faith in. Whether or not a veteran yourself, we as firefighters share a lot in common with our war fighters, and as firemen we should never forget the attacks of 9-11-01 that brought us into the current conflicts with terrorists around the globe. 343 of us died that day, thousands of our military members have died since. The service member is our primary customer and the reason we have our jobs, and we are here to "Protect Those that Defend America" everyday, and I hope you all do so with immense pride.

The holiday is a great time for fun with family and friends and as you go forward into the extended weekend, please be safe. Wear your seatbelts if traveling, if you'll be drinking, stay where you are or have a designated driver to get you home safely. And if you have young children, take a little time to explain why we celebrate such a sad occasion in our Nation's history and teach them why this really is the greatest Nation on earth."

There are many stories as to its actual beginnings, with over two dozen cities and towns laying claim to being the birthplace of Memorial Day. There is also evidence that organized women's groups in the South were decorating graves before the end of the Civil War: a hymn published in 1867, "Kneel Where Our Loves are Sleeping" by Nella L. Sweet carried the dedication "To The Ladies of the South who are Decorating the Graves of the Confederate Dead" (Source: Duke University's Historic American Sheet Music, 1850-1920).

While Waterloo N.Y. was officially declared the birthplace of Memorial Day by President Lyndon Johnson in May 1966, it's difficult to prove conclusively the origins of the day. It is more likely that it had many separate beginnings; each of those towns and every planned or spontaneous gathering of people to honor the war dead in the 1860's tapped into the general human need to honor our dead, each contributed honorably to the growing movement that culminated in Gen Logan giving his official proclamation in 1868. It is not important who was the very first, what is important is that Memorial Day was established. Memorial Day is not about division. It is about reconciliation; it is about coming together to honor those who gave their all.

Memorial Day was officially proclaimed on 5 May 1868 by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, in his General Order No. 11, and was first observed on 30 May 1868, when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery.

The first state to officially recognize the holiday was New York in 1873.

By 1890 it was recognized by all of the northern states.

The South refused to acknowledge the day, honoring their dead on separate days until after World War I (when the holiday changed from honoring just those who died fighting in the Civil War to honoring Americans who died fighting in any war). It is now celebrated in almost every State on the last Monday in May (passed by Congress with the National Holiday Act of 1971 (P.L. 90 - 363) to ensure a three day weekend for Federal holidays), though several southern states have an additional separate day for honoring the Confederate war dead: January 19 in Texas, April 26 in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi; May 10 in South Carolina; and June 3 (Jefferson Davis' birthday) in Louisiana and Tennessee.

Traditional observance of Memorial day has diminished over the years. Many Americans nowadays have forgotten the meaning and traditions of Memorial Day. At many cemeteries, the graves of the fallen are increasingly ignored, neglected. Most people no longer remember the proper flag etiquette for the day. While there are towns and cities that still hold Memorial Day parades, many have not held a parade in decades. Some people think the day is for honoring any and all dead, which is is not.

It was established for just those fallen in service to our country.

To help re-educate and remind Americans of the true meaning of Memorial Day, the "National Moment of Remembrance" resolution was passed on Dec 2000 which asks that at 3 p.m. local time, for all Americans "To voluntarily and informally observe in their own way a Moment of remembrance and respect, pausing from whatever they are doing for a moment of silence or listening to 'Taps."

The Moment of Remembrance is a step in the right direction to returning the meaning back to the day. What might be needed is a full return to the original day of observance. Set aside one day out of the year for the nation to get together to remember, reflect and honor those who have given their all in service to their country.

But what may be needed to return the solemn, and even sacred, spirit back to Memorial Day is for a return to its traditional day of observance. Many feel that when Congress made the day into a three-day weekend in with the National Holiday Act of 1971, it made it all the easier for people to be distracted from the spirit and meaning of the day. As the VFW stated in its 2002 Memorial Day address: "Changing the date merely to create three-day weekends has undermined the very meaning of the day. No doubt, this has contributed greatly to the general public's nonchalant observance of Memorial Day."

I Think I'm Paranoid

2009-05-21T12:13:00.001-07:00

http://new.music.yahoo.com/videos/Garbage/I-Think-I
Love GARBAGE!! She rocks....

Women's Lessons

2009-05-20T14:40:00.000-07:00

From my girl Bryndl ~ Be ready to chuckle, giggle, and out right scream "right on!!"
There might even be a few "oh yeah been there, totally know that" too..
Enjoy ~ thank you Bryndl for the Hump Day Humor

1. Aspire to be Barbie - the bitch has everything.
2. If the shoe fits - buy them in every color.
3. Take life with a pinch of salt... A wedge of lime, and a shot of tequila.
4. In need of a support group? - Cocktail hour with the girls!
5. Go on the 30 day diet. (I'm on it and so far I've lost 15 days).
6. When life gets you down - just put on your big girl panties and deal with it.
7. Let your greatest fear be that there is no PMS and this is just your personality.
8. I know I'm in my own little world, but it's ok. They know me here.
9. Lead me not into temptation, I can find it myself.
10. Don't get your knickers in a knot; it solves nothing and makes you walk funny.
11. When life gives you lemons - turn it into lemonade then mix it with vodka.
12. Remember where ever there is a good looking, sweet, single or married man there is some woman tired of his bullshit!
13. Keep your chin up, only the first 40 years of parenthood are the hardest.
14. If it has Tires or Testicles it's gonna give you trouble.
15. By the time a woman realizes her mother was right, she has a daughter who thinks she's wrong.
'Good friends are like stars.........You don't always see them, but you know they are always there' & 'Remember yesterday, dream about tomorrow, but live for today'.

Happy Birthday Karlene!!!

2009-05-20T09:11:00.000-07:00

Spa day

Ahhh relaxation

Its Karlene's 21st birthday today so we're partying like ROCKSTARS!

yeah ok alright already!!!!! She's 29 and that's all I am saying.

The day is young yet, and I have much more to email her other than her thigh high 5 in boots, a 5 carat diamond ring, a few magharitas and 1 bottle of Arrogant Bastard! Is she worthy?

Stay tuned for more insanity today!!!!!

Arrogance versus the "Fat"

2009-05-20T07:05:00.000-07:00

Its almost Memorial week-end!!

Time to break out the beverages and have challenge.

Which one is WORTHY???

Evanescence "Bring Me To Life" I adore....

2009-05-20T06:51:00.001-07:00

http://www.evanescence.com/
Official site of my Goth Christian Band

http://new.music.yahoo.com/videos/Evanescence/Bring+Me+To+Life+(Live)--8672221;_ylt=Agf76yIproFOwumUuUAyQgnesyUv
From Dare Devil though this is live....

http://new.music.yahoo.com/videos/Evanescence/My+Immortal--2158811
This song makes me cry... its so beautiful.

"Figured You Out" Wednesday

2009-05-20T06:21:00.000-07:00

"Figured You Out"

http://www.nickelback.com/

http://new.music.yahoo.com/nickelback/videos/view/figured-you-out--2159177

I like your pants around your feet
And I like the dirt that's on your knees
And I like the way you still say please
While you're looking up at me
You're like my favourite damn disease

And I love the places that we go
And I love the people that you know
And I love the way you can't say no
Too many long lines in a row
I love the powder on your nose

And now I know who you are
It wasn't that hard, just to figure you out
(Now I did, you wonder why)
And now I know who you are
It wasn't that hard, just to figure you out
(Now I did, you wonder why)

I like the freckles on your chest
And I like the way you like me best
And I like the way you're not impressed
While you put me to the test
I like the white stains on your dress

And I love the way you pass the check
And I love the good times that you wreck
And I love your lack of self-respect
While you passed out on the deck
I love my hands around your neck

And now I know who you are
It wasn't that hard, just to figure you out
(Now I did, you wonder why)
And now I know who you are
It wasn't that hard, just to figure you out
(Now I did, you wonder why)
(Why not before, you never tried)
(Gone for good, and this is it)

I like your pants around your feet
And I like the dirt that's on your knees
And I like the way you still say please
While you're looking up at me
You're like my favourite damn disease

And I hate the places that we go
And I hate the people that you know
And I hate the way you can't say no
Too many long lines in a row
I hate the powder on your nose

And now I know who you are
It wasn't that hard, just to figure you out
(Now I did, you wonder why)
And now I know who you are
It wasn't that hard, just to figure you out
(Now I did, you wonder why)
(Why not before, you never tried)
(Gone for good, and this is it)

Time to scale up the new energy economy

2009-05-19T08:15:00.000-07:00

This is from THE SEATTLE TIMES.
Steve Reynolds is PSE CEO.

Monday, May 18, 2009
OPINION/ EDITORIAL

Op-ed: Time to scale up the new energy economy
The federal finding that climate pollution hurts public health is not the only reason society should step up efforts to combat climate change, write guest columnists Steve Reynolds and K.C. Golden. A stronger economic recovery will occur with such investment.
By Steve Reynolds and K.C. Golden
Special to The Times

THE Environmental Protection Agency's finding that climate pollution endangers public health and welfare is a welcome step. The Obama administration deserves credit for moving quickly to respond to the climate challenge. But we have to do much more than just enforce existing laws like the Clean Air Act to deliver real climate solutions. We must build a new, stronger energy economy — one that increases our use of clean, renewable energy, improves energy productivity, and provides good jobs and prosperity for the long haul.
Representing different interests and viewpoints, we two authors can debate various policy mechanisms and features. But on this much we agree:
Congress and the administration need to deliver a strong national climate and energy policy framework, including: responsible, science-based limits on climate pollution; standards and incentives to increase energy conservation, renewable energy, and smart new energy technologies that improve efficiency; training and transition assistance for good jobs in a new energy economy; consumer protections to ensure that everyone can afford basic energy service; and international leadership in climate negotiations.
Those who urge delay while the economy recovers are missing the point. Accelerating the transition to cleaner energy solutions will keep energy dollars home, drive economic recovery and sustain American employment and prosperity. Now more than ever, we need the economic power of a new energy strategy.
The good news is that private companies and government agencies in our region are already demonstrating that these strategies can and do work. Energy efficiency and renewable power initiatives are creating new jobs, boosting local tax revenues and making our economy stronger. Producing energy cleanly, and using it wisely, will help us tackle global warming and position our region to be competitive. We're already seeing the benefits, from businesses cutting energy costs to small towns where renewable energy delivers fresh opportunity after decades of job losses.
Our successes to date give us confidence that we can do much more. We can substantially reduce our fossil-fuel dependence while improving economic performance going forward. New thinking about energy can provide a powerful new driver for regional prosperity, just as aerospace, medicine and information technology have.
EPA's action signals the Obama administration's real determination to move forward. And the economic-recovery package will jump-start promising clean-energy initiatives. But the transition to a new energy future requires sustained focus and long-term investment. Government can't pay for it all.
Where will the investment come from? Most of it should come from our energy dollars — the billions our economy loses by using energy inefficiently and importing fossil fuels. More than $16 billion drained out of Washington's economy last year to pay for fossil fuels, primarily oil.
We need to keep that money here. Let's commit to reinvesting more of our energy dollars in our local economy — tightening our buildings, providing real transportation choices (cleaner cars and better alternatives to cars), developing clean energy, building a smart energy network, substituting clean electricity for petroleum, and providing good green jobs. We're proving these solutions work in our communities now; we're ready to step it up to deliver solutions as big as our energy and climate challenges.
To provide a strong foundation under this transition, Congress needs to move forward decisively with a clear public-policy commitment to reduce fossil-fuel dependence, build the clean-energy economy, and deliver real climate solutions in a cost-effective manner.
America's workers and businesses can and will do most of the heavy lifting to build a new, stronger, clean-energy economy. But the federal government needs to stand and deliver a climate and energy policy that reduces our fossil-fuel dependence and unleashes our power to build and innovate. Now's the time.

7th Soccer Lesson

2009-05-16T15:04:00.000-07:00

Today was Trenten's 7th soccer practice with the Soccer Tots.
He is becoming rather good at controlling the ball strictly with his feet, though does use his hand a wee bit time to time. He is learning how to maneuver the ball around obstacles, cones, and other objects put into a course. And these babies are 2, 21/2 and 3 1/2. There are a total of 5 children in these lessons. Trenten is the tallest, and currently the oldest. There was a 4 year old boy at the beginning whom is no longer participating.
My camera does not take excellent action photos, so I opted to take a few video I plan to post here for you to view. Enjoy!
Soccer warm up - his second lesson & getting organized for lessons.

Trenten the Dinosaur Dentist

2009-05-16T12:44:00.001-07:00

Trenten has a passion for dino's now. The red one you see in the photos his auntie Rish got him for birthday #2. He wouldn't go anywhere near the thing then. A year and a half later, he loves it. The wee green one, whom he received from his Mamy ((my mom)) he loves. He takes baths with him, naps with him, goes everywhere with him. When we get to the beach, he has to go with us so he can make footprints in the sand momma. OK OK

So why would it be odd if Trenten decided to brush their teeth too, before bed?? He brushes his teeth, so momma they have to brush theirs too! HA!

Here is a video I took of him and his dinos on the prowl immediately following the brushing:

A Friday in the Sun ~ sooooo cheesy!!

2009-05-16T12:35:00.000-07:00

I took this for Thomas.

I'm laying in the sun while you're at work.

Reading my Eragon book.
Zinny & I catching some sun together.
Cheers!!!

A slight breeze

Summertime beverages. Fruit juice and jamacian rum

Hi! I'm LAYING OUT and you WERE NOT!

It was my day off. Every Friday is AMEN! Lately the sun only seems to pop out, warm the earth of Washington on the week-ends around here. There are NO complaints from me. It can piss all week long if it wants too as long as when Friday shows up, VOILA instant sunshine. Loving it.

Well here are some "I'm Loving Fridays" photos of me. They are sooooo cheesy too!

First celebrity dies of Swine Flu

2009-05-14T06:21:00.001-07:00

First celebrity dies of Swine Flu and we all know who the carrier is.

What a stunning Commute!

2009-05-11T08:25:00.001-07:00

A co-worker Patti, graciously took a few photos of her commute to work last Friday May 8th. She rides the Vashon ferry from Tacoma. Can you hear me sigh? Anyday on a ferry is a better day than driving in insane Seattle, Bellevue, Olympia, Federal Way to Fife or Tacoma traffic on I-5. Lately it doesn't matter the time of day you hit I-5, its still nuts.

I saw my co- worker Patti last Thursday and asked if she ever found a moment to snap some photos of her commute for my blog, I'd LOVE to see them and of course post them. She is so sweet to remember me.

Thank you Patti! Miss you here in Tacoma.

Cascade Crab Cake Roll by David Morris of Napeequa Winery

2009-05-06T09:20:00.000-07:00

http://www.foodnetwork.com/flayvors-of-washington-contest/package/index.html?pageref=Photo_Video-1020085&vw_arrange_order=ASC&vw_sort_order=MOST_RECENT

Recipe: Cascade Crab Cake Roll
Serves 4

6 oz of cooked Washington State Dungeness crab
2 green onions (green parts only) chopped
1 T. parsley, fresh, finely chopped
1/2 tsp. thyme, dried
1/2 tsp. basil, dried
1/2 tsp. Beau Monde
1/2 tsp. black pepper, fresh-cracked
1/2 C. wild rice, cooked
2 egg whites, beaten
1 T. lemon juice, fresh squeezed
2 T. clam juice/nectar
1/3 C. mayonnaise
1 1/2 C. bread crumbs (commercially prepared)
1-2 C. Panko bread crumbs
3/4 C. olive oil

Fire Roasted Peach Dipping Sauce
(make two hours ahead of time for flavor development)

2 Washington State peach halves, preserved
1/2 C. apricot jam1 T. horseradish sauce (cream or deli style)
1 T. Dijon mustard
1 T. Tapito hot sauce
3 T. honey, orange blossom

Crab cake roll:
Hold crab aside and stir remaining ingredients together in large mixing bowl. Fold in crab. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and let rest in refrigerator for 30 minutes. Remove from refrigerator and fold in bread crumbs, 1/4 C. at a time. By the end of the last 1/4 cup, crab cake mix should hold together when made into a ball and not stick to hands. If sticking occurs, add more bread crumbs, 1 T. at a time until sticking stops and the mix is firm.

Roll crab cake mix by hand (or with sushi mat) into rolls. Rolls should be 1 1/2 inch in diameter and about 6-7 inches long.Transfer to shallow pan filled with Panko bread crumbs. Dredge or roll crab cake rolls in Panko until completely coated. Let rest ten minutes.

Heat large frying pan to med-low heat. Add olive oil and let oil come up to pan heat. Gently place rolls into pan and lightly fry for 1 minute and 15-20 seconds per side. Roll them on a total of four sides using this time per/side limit. When rolling onto a new side, inspect the previous side for doneness. It should look golden brown and lightly crispy.

After all sides have cooked, transfer to a mesh screen or rack for cooling. Allow 5-6 minutes to cool before transferring to cutting board. Slice roll with a sharp knife into 1 1/2 inch pieces. Transfer to serving platter. Put fire roasted peach dipping sauce into small sushi/soy sauce bowls and serve. Use chopsticks as you would with California rolls, picking up the pieces and dipping them in the sauce before eating.

Fire Roasted Peach Dipping Sauce
Place peach halves on 425-450 deg grill for 4 minutes per side.
Blend all ingredients with peach halves in food processor (or with hand-held blender) in medium size bowl. Let rest in refrigerator 2 hours before serving with crab cake roll.

Swine Flu ~ oink oink

2009-05-04T14:55:00.000-07:00

Here is what my work is sharing with us:

May 4 update on H1N1 (swine) flu; guidance to employees

The World Health Organization has declared the H1N1 (swine) flu virus to be at Pandemic Influenza Phase 5, confirming increased human-to-human transmission worldwide. Phase 5 marks this as a significant event for the medical community.
As of May 3, 35 probable cases have been reported in Washington. The Washington State Department of Public Health does not describe the current H1N1 outbreak as a pandemic and encourages education and preparedness should the situation change.
To promote workplace health, PSE recommends employees take and supervisors promote the following actions:
* Wash hands frequently. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water are unavailable. * Cover coughs and sneezes with upper arm.
* Avoid touching mouth, nose and eyes with your hands.
* Avoid contact with individuals who are sick.
* Self-screen for any flu-like symptoms.

Stay home if you or family members are ill (symptoms of H1N1 are similar to seasonal flu and include fever, cough, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue). See the screening checklist for more information.
Supervisors require an employee to leave the workplace if the employee exhibits these or other symptoms of illness.
Shared workstations should be wiped down with an approved antiseptic at the end of each shift.
When in meetings and elsewhere in the workplace, maintain a six foot separation from others if feasible.
Substitute conference calls for face-to-face meetings where possible.
Avoid snacks/foods that are not individually wrapped.

Screening Checklist

Cold / Influenza
Employee Self-Screening Checklist

Being ill can be an unwelcomed intrusion into a busy schedule. Employees may feel compelled to come to work when ill, trying to avoid loss of time or productivity. Time away from work can mean additional effort "to get caught up" will be required after returning to work.
However, coming to work or going to school with a cold or flu may result in the spread of illness to others. In extreme circumstances, such as a pandemic influenza, the spread of illness could result in significant staffing shortages, compromising PSE’s ability to maintain critical business functions.
Maintaining a healthy workforce and avoiding unnecessary exposure of co-workers to cold or flu can be accomplished through use of a simple self-evaluation. Do you have:
A fever of 100°F or higher? Y / N
Body aches, chills or fatigue? Y / N
A cough? Y / N
A headache? Y / N
A sore throat ? Y / N
A stuffy or runny nose? Y / N
Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea? Y / N
Is someone at home ill? Y / N
Supervisors may use the same criteria to evaluate your fitness for work. If you are symptomatic, you could be sent home if you appear to present a health risk to your coworkers.
If you answered "yes" to
fever of 100°F or higher, stay home
body aches, chills or fatigue; stay home
If someone at home is ill with these symptoms, stay home
to all other symptoms as a group; stay home
If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is best to isolate yourself by staying home. If symptoms are severe, call your healthcare provider. It may be safe to return to work when your temperature drops below 100°F and the remaining symptoms have subsided.

She's here says papa Coby

2009-05-01T10:20:00.000-07:00

Big sister Maesa & little sister Nahla Burke
Oh sweet baby girl
Sweet Pea she sure is~
She is so tiny in that HUGE car seat.

I don't have the stats yet I believe her name is NAHLA BURKE LAPPIN~

Big sister is MAESA LAPPIN

Aren't they gorgeous?

Missing my Sweet

2009-04-30T14:13:00.000-07:00

Its Thursday, end of April, and I am missing my Thomas alot. He has been in Port Angeles for a week now, training a driver on a new route. He was not overly thrilled to go there or be there, yet he always gives 150% now matter what.

Well a song by Leanne Rimes just popped on the radio, and it has always made me think of Thomas. Today, it made me really miss him.

Here are the words ~ you'll see why.

I love you sweet, come home soon.

Fuzz

I Need You by LeAnne Rimes

I dont need a lot of things

I can get by with nothing

Of all the blessings life can bring

Ive always needed something

But Ive got all I want

When it comes to loving you

Youre my only reason

Youre my only truth

I need you like water

Like breath, like rain

I need you like mercy

From heavens gate

Theres a freedom in your arms

That carries me through

I need you

Youre the hope that moves me

To courage again

Youre the love that rescues me

When the cold winds, rage

And its so amazing

cause thats just how you are

And I cant turn back now

cause youve brought me too far

I need you like water

Like breath, like rain

I need you like mercy

From heavens gate

Theres a freedom in your arms

That carries me through

I need you

Oh yes I do

I need you like water

Like breath, like rain

I need you like mercy

From heavens gate

Theres a freedom in your arms

That carries me through

I need you

Oh yes I do

I need you

MRSA, Flesh Eating germs ~ think about it!!!

2009-04-29T09:11:00.000-07:00

http://www.stopmrsanow.org/

After watching oprah & Dr. OZ last night, I am going to be more aware about the "super bugs & germs" that are out there now. Almost all we have caused and created ourselves by over use of antibiotics and antibacterial everything. Its nuts. Now that I have Trenten, and a momma, I know I cannot put him into a bubble as that will not help him grow and build his immune system. Yet I can be more proactive.

http://www.nnff.org/

Why washing your hands and sanitizing is sooooo important.

http://safecarecampaign.org/

Preventing the Spread of Infectious Diseases

Being aware is where its at!

Thanks for reading my blog on this subject.

Crazed Mini Donkey

2009-04-28T14:06:00.000-07:00

Ok so you know Thomas is over in Port Angeles for the week.
And you know he likes to pet fuzzy things
(( STAY WITH ME HERE!!!! get your mind out of the gutter))
Well he was driving down this farm road, and saw something poking up in the tall grass. Being curious, he stopped, got out of the car to investigate.
As he got closer, he realized that they are mini donkeys.
HE LOVES MINI DONKEYS & I still have no idea why... he wanted to pet them.
So he gets out, and walks up to one and is "petting its fuzzy beak" when it had had enough and bit him on the leg!!!!!
I at at work so I am trying hard to not bust out laughing!

Simply.... Sweet Kerry

2009-04-28T12:33:00.001-07:00

Kerry talking to her lovie ((Trenten weeks))

power shopping

Time for a change

Hi Lovie says auntie Kerry

Trenten & auntie Kerry Sep 2006 ((9 months))

This is my sweetest angelic friend.

She has seen the best, the worst and everything in-between of me since 1995.

I know girl, tha tis dating us. It all began on Spring Break day........

Here she is with Trenten in 2006 ~ 2007 ~ 2008

A Spider Man Birthday~

2009-04-28T12:23:00.000-07:00

Birthday Boy D off to swim with his wings and Lightening swim shorts
Baby girl Anna with Grandma Barb

Happy Birthday to Darek. He just turned 3!!!

Nothing like a spider crawling on your cake to freak you out.

HA! HA!

Darek and baby Anna are the precious little ones of a co-worker of mine.

He graciously shares his photos with me to enjoy.

Thanks Doug!!

Its EASTER!!!!!!

2009-04-25T18:48:00.000-07:00

The Easter egg hunt begins......

TT finds many in the rocks

TT finds a pretty pink one near the cottage.

Chrissy& TT find some under the boat

Daphne shows her momma one she found.

Lets look for more....

The bunny hid one in the rain spout

Looking in the flower bed near the cottage.

Lets look back here says Daphne.

Another one papa

Lets look by the dock....

off they go down the stairs...

Thomas, TT, Daphne & Grandpa Jim

Look papa, I found another egg!!

Daphne finds a blue & yellow egg by the fire pit

All done time to go look for more.

Up the stairs they go in search for more.

The hunt brings them to the front of the house and WOW!!!!

bunny left a lot behind....

off to look for more says TT

Look what TT found! What a crazy place to hide an egg..

This was when they were off to look near the dock

Found a green one under the boat.

Found a green one in the flower bed.

This is from the beginning of the hunt.

End of the hunt, time to open eggs & see whats inside.

Chuck, Dirilee & Grandpa Jim

Thumbbs up to Grandpa Kay ((TT had just learned to do this from Josh))

Showing Grandpa Jim his new Thumbs Up~

Smiling for the camera

Sisters gorgeous in pink

The Easter Turkey.... no not Chuck... the actual bird.

Twas The Day Before Easter

2009-04-25T18:18:00.000-07:00

TT playing in the living room

TT dancing in the kitchen

Our room our first morning in Delafield

Prom & Cranberry Martini ~ Happy Easter!!

Peek a boo Diri

Them some sexy panties there girl

cutting up potatos from homemade french fries

My bunny dance

Yes, that is a SHOP VAC Diri is using to vacuum the house.

Diri making special glitter eggs

We had a BLAST getting ready for Easter at Diri and Chucks house.

The pictures say it all~

On our Way to Wisconsin

2009-04-25T17:32:00.000-07:00

Looking at the airplanes thru the BIG windows at the remodeled SeaTac Airport
TT watching all the planes ((8am ~ 4/10/2009))

Lots to see

Children activity area on our way to S gate

All set in our seats for take off for Wisconsin

Thomas & TT looking at things out the window.

My boys

Such a trooper!

Can you hear the "zzzzzzz" This was our 1st flight, 3.5 hours from Seattle to Minn / St.Paul

Watching "Nemo" on the travel DVD player

Telling stories about the planes wings

Thomas telling TT about landing and how it works.

Are we there yet?

Bug was soooooo tired

so very very tired by the time we landed in Minn / St. Paul

Minn / St. Paul play area

TT driving a MAC truck at the Minn / St. Paul airport during out lay over.

They had a play area for the children directly across from our gate, which was perfect.

We left Seattle about 10:30am, and our flight was approximately 3 1/2 hours for a 1 1/2 hour lay over in Minn / St. Paul. Glad we had that time as we had some serious butt hauling to do to get to our next departure gate. Once we got to our spot, there was a Childrens Activity play area directly across from where we needed to be.

From here we caught another hopper flight into Milwaukee which was normally a 45 - 50 minute flight. We were delayed on the tarmack for what felt like an hour due to compute problems. The pilot came on to tell us the events, and apologizing. Yet when he said they ahd to re program the plane, I wanted OFF that plane ASAP. Felt like we took off, quick in flight beverage, then we landed.

Auntie Karlene was there to pick us up~

Backyard Soccer

2009-04-25T16:06:00.000-07:00

TT chasing the ball

Kicking it back to papa

Toe tap, then ....

... ka-pow

and another ka-pow....

chasing the ball...

It was such a beautiful spring afternoon here that Thomas & TT were kicking the ball to each other in the backyard, so I grabbed the camera ... and here are some of the moments I captured. ((I am no photographer like Didi, yet I try)). The video is cute.

Our wee Soccer Tot

2009-04-25T15:23:00.000-07:00

TT all set in his soccer pants~
Warm up time with Coach Chris

B & auntie Rish came!! yeah!!

Warm up time with Cohen showing him the ropes.

Touching his toes

Learning to touch the ball with his toes.

Learning to move the ball back & forth between his feet.

Waiting in the goal area for another lesson

Learning to control the ball

Knocking over the cones by gentle kicks

Auntie Rish filming

Controlling the ball & knocking over cones

Hanging out in the goal

Coach Chris giving new instructions

Practicing with a balloon

Running thru a course learning to hop, weave, and jump.

Coach Chris tackling eager TT

Bouncing the balls off the "parachute"

Parents & kids under ((Thomas is under there w/ TT))

End of lesson the kids receive a "good job" stamp of their choice.

Today was TT's first soccer practice. He did really good at listening to Coach Chris, following direction / instruction, and being totally distracted with everything going on around him.

Momma here is still practicing with her camera to get good shots, so grin and "bare" it with me as some I see are really blurry. I was experimenting with SPORT. I think I need to experiment more. Thankfully my sister Rish was there with cam, so she filmed it. Once I get that downloaded, I'll attach for you to view the insanity of coaching 2 and 3 year olds. I think TT was the only 3 year old, though I am not sure. I know one was 2, and the others I am guessing between 2 and 3. They are <<>>

TT had a blast! He was so not ready to go home after the 1 hour lesson.

Waukesha Museum

2009-04-24T17:49:00.000-07:00

Thomas and TT out front of the 1885 Waukesha County Courthouse
Thomas and TT off to 2nd floor to see courtroom renovations

A bit of info on the goings on of the old court room.

TT wanted momma to take a photo of him getting a sip from this fountain.

President TT on his whistle blowing campaign stop from 1880's.

I had NO IDEA... so interesting.

Armoire

Taken directly over my head, the old court room built 1885.

Us our front the old court house

Looking over my head and to the right in the old court room.

An old, yet still workable weaving loom found in one of the old farmsteads.

MAYTAG Washing machine.

I cannot FATHOM doing laundry on this thing nowadays.

I completelyunderstand why it took the wives of days gone by an entire day.

Yes its Thomas "milking" a plastic cow...

An organ 1880's

SINGER ~ reminds me of my grandmothers sewing machine

No title needed

Us out front, with TT looking away, the 1885 portion of the court house

This Museum was once three different buildings joined to be one in 1938.

Directly behind us is the 1885 courthouse. Inside the museum are fantastic photos showing the construction of this facitily.

To m\our far right, and I didn't get a photo ((crap!!)) is the old Waukesha Jail built in the mid 1850's. There were no tours or any access that Thomas could find, to get us into the old Jail. I don'tknow what the county is doing with the building, yet is is FAMOUS.

There was a "trial of the century" which took place here where Waukesah's first female was tried and sentenced in 1921 for murdering her lovers wife in 1918. She had a somewhat gracious jail cell and did entertain visitors. I wish I had taken some photos of her and her trial.

Also Waukesha was famous for its bootlegging during prohobition as well as housing some of the infamous mafia families ((Thomas and I did see some of their homes along a lake whose name I have no idea)). No idea if those famous homes are still occupied by the same families or if new owners now live there. Lets just say, the ones we were able to see form the road are HUGE as in mansion like. The ones we could not see, as theyhad long drives through trees, were even bigger than the ones we could see. Mind blowing.

Apparently Waukesha County became a popular haven from those running from the law in Chicago. Chicago, IL is only an 80 to 85 mile trek to the south from here.

I'll include a link to the museum at a later time for more details.

On the River

2009-04-24T17:27:00.001-07:00

Self Portrait on the river
Self portrait on the river
I laid down on the dock, and noticed these amazing trees above.
None of the trees have any spring folage on them yet, so I captured the limbs as they appear to stretch up to the sunshine.

Another tree, minus any spring folage, and it shakes off the winter cold.

Looking directly into the afternoon sun light as it streamed thru the branches directly above me.

The River looking left from the dock

The River looking right, and following it leads out to the lake.

Thomas and TT playing tug-o-stick ((they were using this stick to poke at rocks on the river bed and poke at the crawsifh they'd find near the dock.

TT poking at the river bed

Local wild life ((and it is adundant))

They make their nests in the marsh directly across from our spot.

Canadian Geese and Swans. I swore I heard Loons too.

Thomas relaxing on the dock

Stair way to the Bark River house from the dock

Just love the 2 photos of TT as he climbs.

TT enjoying the activity on the river bed ((crawfish))

TT off to toss an acorn into the river

This is also the fire pit area ((to the left of photo))

One gorgeous sunny afternoon, we spent quite a bit of time down on the dock.

We saw crayfish, geese nesting and even a goose fight. They sure make a ruckous!

The Homes in Waukesha County

2009-04-24T17:09:00.000-07:00

Check out those garage doors and the stones.

Amazing entry reminds me of Tudor style.
This one is my favourite ((wood & stones))

Drive way to my favourite.

This one is right when you drive in, to the right.

Corner of Bark River Road near Chuck & Diri's place.

Hartland zip code, yet in city of Delafield

Delafield

Older home in Delafield ((see barn in the back left??))

Old Barn in Hartland

Remodeled older home in Hartland

While going to the store, out touring and sight seeing, here are some of the homes we passed.
Some are OLD, some are from the mid 1900's and others are brand new.

Notice that many use the famous "stone work". Even the BARNS have stones as their foundations.

4/25/09: I just realized that I forgot to add some of the gorgeous newer homes built across the river, through the woods & marsh. They are not directly on the lake, and I don't know if they have access somewhere though I'd imagine that they would. So attached at the very beginning ar ethe new ones I missed adding yesterday.

Bark River location.... absolute heaven

2009-04-24T14:56:00.003-07:00

Bark River Cottage

House from River

Bark River Road front

Bark River House backyard facing the river

Path way to back of house

Right side of Bark Rover House (stone work)

Welcoming front door Bark River Road

This is the GORGEOUS home we stayed at while vacationing in WI.

This home was purchased in 1986, and from the photos we saw of it, WOW was it not a pretty sight, in need of some serious TLC, as well as in need of an overhaul to bring it into the current century.

It used to be a home lived in year round back in the 20's. The previous owners sold items from the lower half of the home like worms for fishing in the spring time.

Most of the homes in the area were strickly for summer use back in the turn of the century.

Well, this home was brought back to life in the mid 1980's by our cousins, whom lived in it throughout all remodeling stages. There were no walls or windows at times and they'd oftentimes wake up to birds, racoons, and other various wildlife creatures in their home while in remodeling stages.

Another serious remodel took place in 1996 / 1997 with the addition of the basement extension with increased their kitchen and dining area. While vacationing here, we stayed in that new addition in the basement. Heated tile flooring is HEAVEN!

This once abandoned unloved & out of date home is now the center of happiness, love and family gatherings. We were blessed to stay here and enjoy the view, the quietness, and the family love.

Enjoy the photos.

As of April 2009, the home is not 100% complete as there will be a deck addition in back as well as a porch added to the front to create "curb appeal", which it has yet Diri believes is missing.

Ben and Trenten

2009-04-24T14:42:00.000-07:00

This is TT's first time experience ever using an axe and what a better time than under the supervisor of his cousin, Ben. While vacationing in Wisconsin, Ben and Jenny had moved back to WI from CO, and arrived while we were still there on April 15th.

TT followed Bn and Jenny around when we went camping with them last August here in Washington, and once again, followed them everywhere in WI.

Ben got the OK to take the old picnic table apart from Diri, so he went out to smash it apart. Now TT wanting to do EVERYTHING his big cousin does, well you can see from the pictures.

Ben and Jenny are the most patient and fun loving cousins any three year old could ask for.

TT was beyond excited to have helped. After is was all taken apart, Ben and TT hauled the wood down to the dock where the fire pit is located. He is growing up way to fast for the momma here.

And they Danced.....

2009-04-24T13:58:00.000-07:00

Check out our cousins dancing!
Does Elaine from Seinfield come to mind?? We love ya Chuck~

... and then just before Chuck heads to the store, he sneaks in a wee butt squeeze, which in turn becomes an all out molest for the camera. Gotta love it ....

Salyna's Cheering Section

2009-04-24T13:42:00.000-07:00

TT watching Salyna at practice. Cohen into his game.
TT hands in place as if he was holding the bat.

ummmmm sure they cheered!

There TT rolls!

Princess Batting Practice

2009-04-24T13:32:00.000-07:00

Swing & Connect! Go salyna!

Good form
She hit it!

Excellent take off for 1st base

Excellent!!

Get that batting arm up!

Knocked it to third

This was the later half pf practice, each child got up to hit the ball a few times.

Salyna is one of two girls on a mostly all boy team ((co-ed at age 6)).

If she would practice listening to the coach a bit more, and with her darn good skills for baseball she already has, she could go far. What can I say... the "listening thing" is just something that runs in the family. Can't fault her for what she inherited.

Salyna ROCKED!

Love ya doll, your aunite Heidi

No Tears in Baseball for this Princess

2009-04-24T13:10:00.000-07:00

** Team Scrappers **
Pitchers Mound

Throwing the ball to coach

The wind up....

Throwing some hip into it

...ready ....

hip action achieved!

practicing catching grounders

Nothing like a bit of "umph" to get that ball in the air.

Catching pop ups

almost got it

tossing her pop up back to coach

oooh almost!

take that coach with a bit of Princess flair.

Yesterday afternoon April 23rd, after work, TT and I went to cheer on Salyna... it was only a practice and T-shirt hand out time, yet we had a great time watching our princess perform at her very best for her auntie, her TT and her brother and mom. Of course she knew the camera was on her.

Please enjoy what I captured yesterday at our local play field.

Happy Easter from Delafield, Wisconsin April 12

2009-04-22T16:03:00.001-07:00

Chrissy and Daphne on the hunt for eggs
Josh home for Easter

Daphne found a secret egg stashed in the shrub

TT egg colors

Happy Easter Cars

Thomas and TT looking for eggs in the rocks.

Look papa I found another egg ((down by the river))
Happy Bunny Day to you

Look they grow like tulips in Wisconsin!!!

Look momma, we found one under the boat.

TT Lightening McQueen Easter basket

Dirilee and TT coloring eggs
TT awakes to Easter Lightening McQueen basket.

Opening eggs filled with treats after the hunt.

Easter treats for everyone

We were blessed to have spent Easter 2009 in Delafield, Wisconsin with Thomas's family.

It was such a treat and a fun day, though it chilled a bit as the day wore on ((you will notice in some photos, no jackets, and the in others, we had jackets on. I was barefoot!!)).

I am not sure which day was more fun, the day before when we were cleaning, dancing, tasting beverages, and being goofy or the insanity of getting the turkey in the oven, the ham on, and tables out and set before people arrived at 1pm.

mmmm I say both were great days.

Trenten had a great wake up surprise to find a lightening McQueen basket filled will jelly bean filled eggs, a few new cars ((like the child needed any more!!)), pens, paper, bubble machine, and chalk that looked like eggs. It was a wonderful day.

Thanks Dirilee and Chuck for having us.

About a Tractor

2009-04-07T16:11:00.000-07:00

It is ALL ABOUT Lightening McQueen and Tractor he has named "Tippin". If you have not seen the movie "CARS" from Pixar, then you don't know what you are missing. We've seen it, literally 1000 times ((ok it sure seems like 1000 times, yet I bet I am close to accurate)) since TT got the movie from his auntie Rish in mid December. The child has memorized just about every scene, every line, every moment, every thing!

Best thing I love about the movie is the soundtrack. No matter how many times its on, and I walk into the room hearing it, I love the music from Cheryl Crow to Rascal Flatts. Its fantastic.

Stay tuned for more car-crazy TT. The child is also addicted to NASCAR!

We have car # 9, #5, #18, #88, #09 and soon #24 & #48.

4/20/09: Update as of Easter Trenten now has car #9, #28 and Nytro ((green "naughty" car)). The Easter bunny spoiled him right in Wisconsin.

Giggle Cousins

2009-04-07T15:58:00.000-07:00

B ~ Coco ~ TT 3/20/2009

The giggles begin

TT does a body slam!

Bury B

B laughing so hard she can't move.

The boys still play on.

Coco about to scream

What a smile!

Giggle cousins scream!

Coco and B being silly.

Welcome home from Mexico Coco and B!

Its all out~crazy~insanity~giggle fest~scream-athon at Auntie Heidi's house!

How To Get That Job!

2009-04-07T12:42:00.000-07:00

LOVE PEPSI! Great Job!!