Busy as usual

Glad to hear everyone so far had a good Christmas. Rocky and I really enjoyed our time down in Memphis and was sad to see it come to an end. It was a lot of fun to spend time with everyone down south, however Rocky and I cut our trip a little short and came home Sunday afternoon instead of Monday morning. (Rocky and I are also lucky to have had our last day of work be the 23rd, Rocky was home by 11 am that morning and I was off at 2:30 so we didn't have a late trip and don't have to be back until the 5th) So...Rocky and I have been working diligently on some of our remodeling projects. I'll try and remember to take some pictures, it's hard tracking down a camera these days, I left mine in Taylorville on the 14th and so am without it until they deliver it to me on Saturday. The big projects for this week are the laundry room, kitchen, and FINALLY the downstairs bathroom. It's only Tuesday and I think you can already see a huge improvement. It's like a different house, out with the old lady antiques and lace and in with the much newer and shinier! Well it's getting very late (midnight) and I've got to get up early in the morning for my umpteenth trip to Lowes and Wal-Mart for this week and then back to work!!
See most all of you this weekend....

Since I can't sleep anyway...

Woke up (I mean WOKE UP) after dreaming I forgot to order lunch for after a golf tournament and had 60 hungry men at the country club and one hour. In retrospect, guessing I could pull that off. Ah well. Luckily, I too, have a Christmas break so can sleep in.

Santa was good to us too. The kids got their much wished for Wii and a few other wonderful things. Eric's family made it here over the weekend between the snow and ice. The Wii got a workout as the men broke a sweat, developed sore muscles and battled it out- often with Brady kicking their booties.

Brady & I made a quick trip to Quincy to drop off Kenzie for a much anticipated week with Grandpa & Grandma. This is is her first visit "on her own" and she couldn't wait to spend time with them. She is all unpacked & settled into her new room in the back bedroom. She's asked Grandpa if they can make a fruit cake. You'll all have to at least TRY it.

We have several nights of company as Michelle & her family come for dinner tonight and some Carpet One folks join us for New Years Eve. My sisters would be proud at the amount of cooking going on in my kitchen. I am ever so thankful not to be cooking this weekend too!

Happy New Year to each of you and a blessed 2009!

Change Of Plans

Merry Belated Christmas to all and a wish for a wonderful 2009. I too have been busy leading up to Christmas this year and since I hadn't had a chance to post pre-Christmas plans here's what I'm up to in between the 2 holidays. Since I have a wonderful boss who let me off of work for almost 2 full weeks (even though I have to keep my cell with me in case of emergency), I'm spending time with the fam here in Q-town. Christmas was quiet, but very nice. Santa was very good to us this year. It was very interesting to watch Skye opening her presents. I've never seen a dog open it's own presents. Kinda reminds me of a 2 year old! I had planned to spend Saturday afternoon at Bryan & Nikki's catching up with them, but instead spent a lovely rainy drive to Hannibal to pick up Mom & Dad with Bry & Nikki. Wow, was that crazy! Like Nikki said everything was ok and I didn't freak out too badly. Glad Bryan was not working and got the call first. After assuring Grandma that her daughter had all 10 fingers and toes, Mom and Dad spent the evening playing Wii Music (and loving every minute of it). I went to a QHS alumni variety show saluting 2 of my favorite teachers in highschool. I throughly enjoyed it although my friend Steph did not. Got to catch up with some old friends that I have not seen in a long time. Today after my eye doctor apt, we are heading to Mt Pulaski to visit the adopted "Grandchildren", thus the title change of plans. Mom realized that visiting Kathy just didn't fit into the puzzle and it would work best if we visted Gracie and Hope this afternoon. Tomorrow, the Bremmer's arrive, which should be fun. I haven't really seen them much since I went away to college. My plans for the rest of the week is to just relax and spend time with the fam! Looking forward to seeing those that are coming this weekend! To the Midget clan in UT, miss you and thoughts are with you. Hannah, keep me posted if/when you hear from Danyela @ the zoo, I won't be at the zoo for 3 weeks, but will let you know if I hear anything!

Awww Sherry didn't make it...

I was catching up on the blog... sorry so busy around here... but being the good daughter-in-law that I am, I am going to post for Sherry WHY she did not make it to Fairview as she had stated in the last post......

http://www.wgem.com/ - upper right hand side is video w/ Dale being interviewed... atleast at the moment it is. Tee Hee

They got caught in a tornado while driving down on Hwy 61. We went and picked them up, cuz we wanted to see the damage too! You can see that it was part of the roof that hit the car. There's a shingle in the corner and insulation on the grille.

And Christmas Begins

Christmas has officially arrived in Quincy and will stick around for the next week or so as we celebrate with friends and family. Laurie arrived Tuesday evening...the weathermen were wrong about the forecast, her boss said, "Go now, Laurie," and Dad said, "Yes, now while you can..." so a quick trip home to load the car and get Sassy and off she drove. She had only a few bad spots on the drive and not nearly as bad as what her brother got caught in driving his load home from St. Louis. The ice moved farther south and he hit it around Bowling Green. The truck in front of him jackknifed, he was going slow enough he had time to stop...called and told his dad it was so icy he had pulled off and didn't know when or if he would get home that night. He was just about to check in and get a room at the local motel when another trucker gave him the word that the road was now passable, but slow. He was really tired when he got home, though!!

Nikki and Bryan are officially in their home! We made the move on a very cold Saturday. I'll let Nikki fill you in on the details.

Dad fixed a terrific Christmas dinner for my family. Menu consisted of a New York Strip roast, mashed potatoes and gravy, stuffing, green beans, applesauce, and French Silk pie....yum!!!! We ate rather late. Mom really wanted to go to church Christmas morning, so Dad, Dale and I went with her and rather than rush home and cook, we decided to eat in the middle of the afternoon. Then my family played with Bryan's new monopoly set....the credit card version...while Mom and Dad watch TV, etc. A quiet but nice evening. Santa was certainly nice this year and gave us a very wonderful Christmas!!!

Tomorrow, Dale and I will drive to Fairview Heights to visit with Kathy Johnson (a dear friend of ours). She's here spending Christmas with her Mom, brother and sons and daughter along with Matt and Michael's families. Christmas is tough on her...Rachel's death is still very much with her, especially since Rachel's last Christmas was the only Christmas that Kathy did not come home for (she and Charlie and Rebekah live in North Dakota). She had planned on an early spring visit with her instead.

Sunday we're hoping to spend a few hours with my former principal and his wife. They're here in Quincy visiting their daughter. Their son, Nathan, is a Sem student who will be preaching at St. James on Sunday. It'll be the first time that we'll all get a chance to hear him.

Monday evening our goddaughters, Sarah and Rachel Bremer will be arriving with their Mom and Dad and brothers for a couple of days. We haven't seen the girls in over a year and are certainly looking forward to their visit!!

Thursday or Friday will find us in Mount Pulaski visiting our "granddaughters", Gracie and Hope. We'll have Christmas with them then.

The Midget family begins arriving on Friday evening and our big Christmas celebration will begin Saturday afternoon. The grandchildren are following the newest tradition and are cooking supper for their grandparents, moms, dads, aunts, and uncles. (We seniors are looking forward to this!!!) We'll gather afterwards to open gifts!! (We usually open gifts at Mom and Dad's and have dinner at my house, but will have to see about the dinner location ...it will depend on the weather as to where we'll eat).

The family heads home on Sunday and everyone returns to work on Monday. Our schedule is full, but I am looking forward to it. Hope everyone had a very nice Christmas. We wish we could have been with you. Miles, rivers, and mountains may separate us physically, but you're all in our thoughts and prayers each day.

Love to you all.

Oh and by the way.....yes, we did finally get the tree up...Christmas Eve just like I thought, we even had time to hang up a wreath!!!!

Christmas Wishes

Hope each of you received your Christmas wish granted today! We had a great day here-it was a hectic week, thus my tardy response to our preholiday plans. David was released on Tuesday, just in time to go with me to the Trans Siberean Orchestra concert that he had given me tickets to for my birthday. WOW-what an awesome show!! I would recommend it to anyone-I have never seen such a spectacular concert.
I had been opening every day since last week which meant being at work by 3:45 am-then running and finishing up baking, shopping, wrapping, etc in the evenings. It was nice to be off both Christmas Eve (my first time off since I started retail I think!) and then also today. All of the kids were here along with David's sister Nancy and her daughter Megan. We had a great day eating, playing games and eating some more!
The big news was that Chris and Sara had their sonogram and found out that they are having a boy!! All is well-looks like he may be pretty good size at this point-Sara is telling him to slow down a little!!
Thank you to everyone for your prayers and phone calls this past few weeks. I know it is not always easy to understand, but your support and love mean everything to me! My family is the biggest blessing that I have!!
Here is to a wonderful 2009!!
Love each of you!!

Uh, I'm still at work

Well, it's 11 on Christmas Eve, I am at work, but only for another half hour or so. Then I am off to KC. I have eaten a lot this week due to work parties, and I was out too late last night at a gift exchange/night out with the girls. :) I like having three day work weeks. That's about it for now! MERRY CHRISTMAS!

On the eleventh day of Christmas. . .

School is out until January 5th.  Yeah!  I spent yesterday catching up on laundry which tended to pile up over the month.  I mopped my floor, cleaned my bedroom, and convinced my kids to do the same.  (sort of)  I then shoveled my driveway of the newly fallen, very heavy snow.  What a fun way to spend the first day of vacation, I know.  But now I can enjoy the rest right?  

Today we wrapped presents and did our own last minute errands.

We wish everyone the best over the holiday!

Love you all!

We want to know what you're doing!

Hey everyone- If we can't be all together in person, at least we can be virtually! Blog on & tell us what you are doing as you ramp up for the big day. I am at work and looking forward to an afternoon party at my boss' home. Eric & the kids are home and thinking about heading to Carpet One for a potluck. I have my to-do list in my purse but consider being "out" at the last minute part of the fun!

Leslie

Visions of Sugar Plums..

It's Christmas break at the Held's and time for some serious baking for the kids. From a gingerbread house to the world's best Christmas cookies, wish you could all have one! Time for the last of the wrapping and a quick run for some odds & ends tomorrow. Happy day to all!

Love, Leslie

Address

Ours is
8289 Vardon Ln Apt 202
Cordova, TN 38016

We need your too!!

addresses

I need Susan and David's new address in memphis... and Ben and Ashley's address... and Jon and Emilee's

Can you guys, or any1 else please post these so I can get our Christmas Card out to you?

Thanks

How cute is that?!

B, A & T- I LOVE the pictures! Makes me want to kiss those sweet little cheeks :).

Great news- Christine's on Sterling is officially OPEN! WHOOO-HOOOO! There was a press release in the paper on opening day & a Christmas Event in the park across the street on Saturday. Nice timing :). GO TEAM!

Sorry about the pipes N&B. Glad it's fixed.

Love, Leslie

Family Pictures

Having learned the joys (or lack thereof) of photographing babies when we got Ty's portraits done at 6 months, we thought we were prepared for our family photoshoot.

We were wrong.

The morning was freezing cold and Tyler was in such a bad mood I didn't think we'd get anything resembling a smile out of him.

But we couldn't be happier with our family pictures when the photographer posted 'em today.

Take a look at them here.

Christmas Wish Lists

Thought I better throw our's out there for anyone, just so you know these were extremely hard to come up with!!
Rocky-
Gift Cards *they don't have to be for a lot, he says every $5 helps* to--auto zone, JEGS high performance, Summit Racing, Lowe's, Wal-Mart, Game Masters, Farm and Home, and the local Hobby Shop
Clothes-Jeans 36x36 and long sleeve shirts XL-XXL *his shoulders/arms are very broad*
Tools-he just has screwdrivers listed??

Jess-
Cheap fun Jewelry, *sparkly is always good*
Lowe's gift card *even just $17 buys us a new roll of insulation!*
CDs-Jason Aldean and Rihanna
Wal-Mart gift card so I can buy make-up
Smell good stuff for the house
Picture Frame w/a photo included if you have a good one!
a weekend of help on the house (there is always much to be done, you can pick the project of your choice...LOL)
gift cards to McDs, Wendys, or Burger King

Hope everyone is having a good week or at least being grateful that 2008 is almost over!!

Before... & After...

Oh boy.... home ownership is a blast!

First, I would also like to say, Carolyn we are so happy to hear that everything turned out ok.

Now... onto our fun filled Friday!!!!!!!!!!!!

As you all know our home ownership began Monday... Bryan had gone prior to the closing to have the water changed into our name for our new address of 460 Holly Dr. Friday morning.. Dale doesn't have much time to paint today, but still decides to come over to work on the hallway. A drip falls and he goes to wet a papertowel to wipe it up. Low and behold there is no water? Why you ask? Well because the seller called and had it turned off. Hmmm Dale calls the city water and they have no record of Bryan's name. Bryan who tells me what's going on...which I can't d anything about. They find out that the clerk wrote down 406 Holly Dr. Problem solved, right? NO! They come back to turn the water on...there's a small leak that they noice, but being a city worker do they care? No not even in Quincy... after some time they get a call that the street is flooding. They return, turn the water off, and hang a nice pink notice on our door that there is a leak in the water main and we are to call our personal plumber to come fix it.

The story of our Friday begins....

11:00 am - text msg from Bryan "Great we have no water the city shut it off" (now mind you we're not supposed to be text msg'ing at work, but we all do anyways... and I can't leave my desk or anything...Love my job!) ..... find out the story - Bryan figures out that it was an error in house number
11:12 text - they are sending someone to turn it back on, Ok... crisis avoided no big issue there...............................

Friday, 3:00 pm, sitting at my desk at work about to go on break. I get a text msg, "Major problem the water main is leaking badly now they can't turn our water on until its fixed and its our pipe"
* tears....frantic text msg'ing to find out what's going on.....anger.....panic.... anxiety about cost*
3:14 pm "Does the home warraty cover pipes?"
*********** check, yes, but only interior from the water meter into the home
3:30 ** any updates?
3:32 "not yet calling plumber Grandpa suggested"
3:34 " it's stil leaking a little I think its the valve itself, but the city disagrees
******************************************************************************
(pause) So as I'm at work and Bryan is trying to take in the whole situation... the Termite inspector happens to be in the neighborhood and shows up (yes we had the inspection done and the house has to be treated, there's some damage, but no active termites, total cost $900, $750 paid by seller at closing in form of check to inspector) he wanted to try and get the treatment done this weekend, but due to the cold weather won't be able to. All the while Bryan is trying all the plumbers in the phonebook with no luck. It's late on a Friday afternoon and they either don't have any openings until Tuesday or don't even know when the next opening is. *sigh* Well termite inspector saves the day and suggests a plumber he knows, who comes out right away and tells Bryan that he thinks it's a bushing. He's replaced multiple in the neighborhood. The builders that did the subdivision put in steel bushings but the pipes in the houses are copper, and apparently they expand and contract differently, which causes them to break.
********************************************************************************
(play)
4:23 pm "have a plumber coming to look"
4:25 pm "he's the only one even willing to look at it right now"
4:27 pm "this is going to be expensive i'm sure" (I'm thinking to myself, YEA! it's probably going to be thousands. Thank goodness we didn't buy any furniture or a new tv like we had wanted)
4:32 pm "now i'm worried i have the wrong address with the other utilities
4:46 pm "He's going to do it tomorrow morning (thank God) he thinks its a bushing and can do it for around $650
(stop)
*********************************************************************************
So there you have it.... stressful situation taken care of, not going to be in the thousands like we thought.... you'll just all get a Christmas card w/ a torn up front yard showing... and now you'll know why.

Yes I am a dork in my little formatting of my story, but I have to try to stay light hearted about it all. Oh to be a kid again and only have to wonder about what you'll get for Christmas and what to wear to school.... LoL

I will be posting after photos as I take them.... for the remodeling...

Have a great weekend!!!

Let me add to the thoughts and prayers-Carolyn I too am glad all came out so well. It sounds like you had a wonderful doctor who took great care of you! We all hear about using sunscreen, but I think maybe we'll take it a little more seriously now.
David had biopsies done this week also on his stomach and small intestine-the doc said he really thought that the problem was more the medicines just eating away at his stomach but wanted to be sure. Kind of disgusted at the Jonesboro doctor who took him off his Protonix a few years ago-he probably wouldn't be having any troubles now! Being back on them will help-now I know not to let anyone take them away!
Sara, Chris and I are (slowly) recovering from our colds. It was a nasty little bug-seems to last forever! At least I can take a few more meds then poor Sara. I came home Sunday and slept for 18 hours-that always helps too :)
Can't wait to see pics posted of the new shop and the new house. Everyone seems to be busy remodeling, painting, etc-makes me appreciate my little apartment!!
Work is really busy-this is the busiest store I have ever worked in. Every day is a challenge just staying filled and recovered (or at least attempting). On top of the holidays, the store manager quit the week before Thanksgiving.....oh, there is never a dull moment here. Hopefully we will have a new one in place soon-will be the 10th one in 5 years-is there a trend here?? Not really a store I would particularly want at this point.
On the upside, we had a great Thanksgiving with the kids, David's sister Nancy and her daughter Megan and David's niece Lorie and her husband and two kids. We finally visited the famous Beale Street and also checked out Zoo Lights at the Memphis Zoo. Plenty of shopping too! Luckily the weather was warm and we could spread out onto the balcony for space :)
Well-I have rattled on enough-let me close with a HAPPY BIRTHDAY WISH FOR DALE!
Hope you enjoy your day!

Blessings and Paint

I'll echo the sentiments of everyone else and say how glad we are that every thing turned out okay for you, Carolyn. Medicine is certainly a wonderful thing. I, too, never noticed anything so am sure that the scar will not draw attention. Your wonderful smile and sparkling eyes will certainly be the attraction.
As for the paint topic....Dale finished the ceilings of Bryan and Nikki's rooms today and will begin painting the walls tomorrow. He's working alone right now..while Bryan and Nikki take care of the hundred million other things that need to be done....measuring carpet, getting keys made, etc. They are right, though. The house is much bigger than what I remembered, too. Once the furniture was out, the size of the rooms were quite bigger than we had thought!! It will be fun to watch them as they turn it into "their" house!!!
Chris, glad to hear everything went okay. The shop looks great...and I'm sure it will be a success!!! You all did a lot of hard work to bring it about. Can't wait to hear about your Open House on Saturday.
Sue, heard you, Sara, and Chris were down with bad colds. Hope you all are feeling better. Know this is your busy season and your hours are long.
I've had a few days off, too, with a flu bug---am following my own instructions and not returning to work until I'm on my feet for 24 hours--which is tomorrow. Too many of our students and staff return too early and wind up going home AFTER they have spread the germs to the rest of the school.
Hope everyone has a good rest of the week! Love to all.

Blessings

Quick note to say I am so glad you are OK Carolyn.

Also yay for Nikki & Bryan. The home seems to grow as you measure for floor coverings. Don't worry, it'll shrink back when you move all your stuff in.

And hooray for the opening of Christine's on Sterling! I echo our thanks to our family. We couldn't done it w/o you!!!!

Love,
Les

Grandpa & Grandma's Christmas List

Congrats to Bry & Nikki!!! Can't wait to see it. Waiting to here a moving date, but will be available to help do whatever needs to be done while I'm home for the holidays. Carolyn, glad to hear everything is ok!
So on to the Christmas List for Grandpa as he is very concerned that if it's not posted he won't get anything for Christmas... Grandpa would like Argyle Socks, Cheap Whiskey (or really any kind of Whiskey), a sheet of masonite 1/4 inch thick (this doesn't need to be wrapped), Waldenbooks or Kohls Gift Cards. Grandma, who is still thinking of her list had these 2 items, Heated seat cover for the car and hospital socks (the ones that are have no slip strips and no toe seam, the toe seam really bothers her).
Last thing really, I'm asking the Grandkids that are coming to Quincy to once again help with Christmas dinner on Jan 3rd. I will be supplying the main course of Baked Ham. Here's the rest of the menu:
Mash Potatoes & Gravy
Cheesy Corn Casserole
Green Bean Casserole
Soup
Bread
Pumpkin Pie - Nikki has agreed to make thise
Apple Crisp
Cookies - Daddy I'm hoping we'll have some of your awesome Christmas cookies!
Salad w/various dressing
Pineapple Stuff that Grandma makes - Grandma & Mackenzie
Waldorf Salad - Grandpa & Brady

Please let me know if you will be willing to help and what you would like to fix. As to my life right now. Not much new is going on. Work is normal. Zoo is good, new tamarins went on exhibit this week. So this will be my first weekend to be able to work with them. Oh, Hannah I think I will be able to get you a volunteer position if you are interested. You'll need to fill out the form that is located on the blankparkzoo.org website. Let me know if you have any q's. Back to work as I watch the snow swirl around outside. Hope everyone has a great week!

Carolyn, I am so happy to hear that everything is alright with your procedure and you are in the clear. I never noticed anything on your face either. Just your wonderful smile!!!
Our prayers will be with you for a perfect recovery and healing process.
Nikki and Bryan, congratulations on your new home.....I know you are excited to get in and make it yours. I will look forward to the pictures.

Things here in KC have been crazy as a good part of our family can attest to. Everyone worked super hard over the Thanksgiving holiday helping at the Sugar Creek salon. By Sunday evening we were ready for the inspectors to come. That they did yesterday. We passed state board with flying colors and the city inspection with just a couple of minor things that the electrician has to complete. Although the inspector told us not to stop our opening next Tuesday Dec. 9th :-)
We will plan our Grand Opening in Jan or Feb. will let you all know the exact date.
Again our thanks to Sherry, mom and dad for cooking a fabulous Thanksgiving dinner (otherwise it would have been who knows what) Laurie for keeping an eye on Kenzie and Brady so they did not have to hang with us at the salon (they seem to have had their fill of this). Dad for recovering our chair arms (they look great with the mats) Dale for connecting and wiring our phones (plus much more). Julie for dusting, cleaning and whatever else she found that needed to be done. Mom and dad for their moral support and for the upbringing that we had to give us the courage and confidence to venture into another business. And of course our partners in this Leslie and Eric for all the time, effort, hard work, determination,headaches, and support to make this happen.
We are truly blessed as a family! and although I did not get to post what I am thankful for last week, I am taking that opportunity now.
God Bless You All!

Congrats and Whew!

Congratulations to the new home owners. Can't wait to see the before and after pictures. That is my favorite part of remodeling. Well, actually being finished is my favorite part of remodeling, but it is great to be able to see how far you have come. 

As for the whew, I had a large black and brown spot taken off my jawline a few weeks ago. It was melanoma in situ--the bad kind of skin cancer but only in the skin, so considered stage 0. I had to have a follow up procedure with a special kind of surgeon, who can examine the cells after they are removed, to make sure they got it all. They took  pretty good sized chunk yesterday, sent it to the lab, and it came back clean. They got all the bad cells, so today they stitched me up. I am sporting a very attractive pressure bandage and will have a pretty big scar for several months. But as my friend Amy just said, "none of us ever noticed the darn thing before, we aren't going to notice the scar." The surgeon was a combination dermatologist, pathologist, plastic surgeon (called a Mohs surgeon), so he was able to take the minimum amount of tissue and minimize the scar. 

So here's hoping Santa brings each of you a great big bottle of SUNSCREEN for Christmas and that you use it every day. 

Love, Carolyn

Official Home Owners!!!

The papers are signed...the keys are hung...
We're home owners now...
the job certainly is not done...

There's paint to be painted...
Carpet to be installed...
if only that were it...
but we're in it for the long haul...

I'm such a little rhymer... LoL

Anyways.. we closed on our house today. It's much bigger than we remembered, which is a good thing. Bryan and Dale will be working on getting the ceilings painted in the living room and bedrooms tomorrow. We're hopefully going to get all the painting done by the end of this weekend so we can work on getting flooring done ASAP so we can get moved in before Christmas. I'll be posting before and after photos and will be video taping also!!!

Hope everyone had a happy Thanksgiving!

Love,

Nikki & Bryan

Gratitude

I am thankful that we had a safe, happy & normal childhood which allowed us to grow up into productive (arguably over-productive) adults. That we can agree to disagree. That I have the most fun with my family who makes me laugh til I cry and cry til I laugh. That we are blessed to have our parents still with us and that the generations continue and choose to stay connected whether we are near or far. That the next generation's commitment to family resonates loud & clear.

Happy Thanksgiving & love you all-

Leslie

Thanksgiving Blessings

Okay--quick list from me....things I am thankful for....parents who have instilled the importance of faith and unquestionable love for family and instilling values that can be passed on to the next generation.......having that special "Walton's" brand family who gather together whenever opportunity presents itself to laugh and play, cry and fuss, and remember.....knowing that there's a whole "team" behind us in whatever we do. Happy Thanksgiving everybody!!!!!

Thank You

With Thanksgiving approaching and not everyone able to be together I think it would be neat if we could share one or two things we are grateful for like we have done in the past at Thanksgiving dinner-I'll start!
I am grateful for a family who supports me no matter what-even when I know my decisions may seem crazy
I am grateful for memories that can never be replaced
Love you all-may you have a blessed and thankful Thanksgiving!!
Sue

My List

Long time no post. Been busy around here. Things are going well here at work I suppose. No big changes, guess that's a good thing. Zoo is good to. We got our new animals in this past week. Hope you can keep a secret 'cause I sure can't they are just TOOO CUTTTTEEE. They are Red Panda's and I can't wait until their 30 quarantene is over so I can work with them. Bad news is one of our sloths died and 2 of our penguins might be worsing in health. Oh, yeah and I almost got attack by a sea lion. Nothing to worry about Pupper thought if she scared me that I would give her fish, which of course I don't ever have. She's going through a rough spot and acting like a misbehaving little kid. Hannah, I should know soon what we need to do to get you a spot on Zoo Crew if you are still interested... You can check out blankparkzoo.org to see what's going on. Let's see Sassy is good too. A little perturbed at me for being gone last week. On to my Christmas wish list. I too would love to have old memories written down as I seem to have Aunt Susan's memory. Old pics with memories would be good. I would love a weekend of handyman help around the house this summer as there's much I want to do, but not much I want to try by myself. I'm always up for books and a gift card from Amazon.com is perfect as that's where I purchase them from. Also, I just got a Wii and would love to have a charging/cooling station for it. Jeans from Old Navy, The Sweetheart Size 10. In Shirts I where Large. Just remembered, I also got an iPod so a gift card for songs is good too. There is a clock and a wall decoration thing from Target that Mom has the info on as well. Anyway, I should probably get back to work. Love you all and Wishing you all a Happy Thanksgiving!

Christmas Memories

Thought it might be fun to share some
of our old Christmas pictures. ( I am
hoping I have this scanning stuff
figured out!)

Christmas List

Hey everyone! Greetings from St. Louis! Things are busy as usual, though my biggest issue, my car, is finally resolving itself. I had jury duty Monday. I actually wanted to sit on the jury, but it was a long trial, and I don't get paid for j-duty, so I had to cause a little ruckus in the courtroom so that I didn't get picked. Not to stir political fire, but here's a recent picture of me:
This was at the Obama rally in STL in October, me and 100,000 of my closest friends. It was craziness!

OK, down to the real business, haha. As far as Christmas wishes go, my biggest vices are music, books, and movies, and I'm quite open to all. If you really need more specifics:
Harry Potter & The Order of the Phoenix DVD (which, tragically I have not bought myself yet)
Flight of the Chonchords Season 1 DVD (it's an HBO show)
CD's: Devotchka-A Mad and Faithful Telling, We Are Scientists-With Love and Squalor, and the Legally Blond Broadway Soundtrack (for the record, the bands in the first two are Devotchka and We Are Scientists, then it's the name of the album :) )
Books: there's about a million, but here's a few: Hurry Down Sunshine, The Book of Lost Things, The World Without Us, and The World is Flat: A Brief History of the Twenty-First Century

Hope that helps. Can't wait to see everyone for thanksgiving and/or christmas! Love ya'll! :)
julie

Utah wish list

Beautiful weekend here in Utah. Between the three of us we raked and bagged 39 bags of leaves and one very scary bag of tomatoes caught between freezes on the vine. Eeewww. 

Hannah's Holiday Wish List includes: 

DVDs: Princess Mononoke, Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind, Castle in the Sky

Soundtracks from any of the three movies listed above

Headphones--Apple iBuds or Skullcandy earpods

Barnes and Noble gift cards

Itunes giftcards

Anything Harry Potter

Anything Lord of theRings

David's wish list:

A pepper grinder--like over your salad in fancy restaurants, but smaller

Your favorite two recipes 

Your favorite book

Old family photos

A compact kitchen first aid kit for all the times I cut myself cooking (thought of by Carolyn)

Carolyn's wish list:

Old family stories written out or recorded

Ditto on old family photos

A book or info downloaded from the Internet on how to grow and cook with hot chili peppers

Good smelling stuff to spray on sheets (for the cabin)

Good smelling shower gels

Walking/hiking stuff--ie, water bottle

Thanks. We hope everyone has a lovely November and a not-too-stressful lead up to the holidays.  

Merry Christmas To All

I agree-we are a very vocal family who are not afraid to share our thoughts and opinions. I too am glad to put this to rest and focus on preparing for the holidays. This is my favorite time of year-even being in retail. Just an FYI-the Christmas carols are playing at Kohls if you need help getting into the spirit :)
Life in Memphis continues to be interesting-the store is still struggling (we just haven't been able to get ahead). They are bringing in a huge crew to help us prepare for the holidays-it's great for me to finally get some stuff caught up-but never a good thing for a store to need that much help. I have to give up my weekend off, but it will give me some good "bonding" time with my new district manager since he has pretty much taken over control of the store from the store manager (again not a good thing for the manager).
As far as Christmas lists go here are some thoughts for us-
David-
movies (he is registered on Family Video with a wish list-use our email and then 1416spring for password)
socks-he likes the thin dress socks
any kind of gift certificate for restaurants
homemade oatmeal cookies-no raisans or chips or nuts-just plain
CDs-he likes lots of the 70-80's like Cher, Air Supply, I know he would love the CD from Dirty Dancing
Any type of Rams or Cardinals shirts (he likes the polo styles)

Susan-
Inexpensive jewelry-nothing real flashy
Books-just about any novel
Chocolate-in any form!!!!!
Family Calendar
I would love a photo album of other's family pictures over the years
Visor CD holder for my car
Subscription to magazines-Oprah, Family Circle, Womans Day, Good Housekeeping

And from us both-lots of visitors in 2009!

We love you all and can't wait to see you!!

Thanks Everyone, Now How About A little Help

It's nice to know that the "Walton" family is well and reading their blog. Mom and Dad did a good job in making us all feel comfortable in voicing our opinion, no matter what side of the fence it may come from. Wouldn't it be nice if all families felt as comfortable in talking over the pros and cons of family "life?" Let's get on with the holidays. Thanksgiving is fast approaching and then it won't be long before we get together for the Christmas holiday!!
It would be truly helpful if a gift "registry" would appear on this blog...listing not only sizes, but things that you might like to receive for Christmas, both bought and homemade. Dale and I would love to see this list magically appear on our computer.
If you don't mind we'll start....

Dale would love to see any of the following under the tree
CD's both instrumental and vocal anyone heard of Ferranti and Teischer?
Easy playing piano/organ book
Jellies, Jams (home made or bought)
Inexpensive, interesting tools (don't you know --no one ever has enough tools)
a lesson on how to put pictures on the blog
handyman's assistant to help with some projects around the house
recipes of easy to make food for "kids night" (I'm tired of making the same old things, and they hate Aunt Sherry's new recipes!!!)
"bus" toys---anything having to do with/connected to driving a school bus

Sherry would love to see any of these items
CDs of any musical except SOUND OF MUSIC, PHANTOM OF THE OPERA which she already has or Barry Manilow, The Four Seasons
set of GEL pens that I can use for my grading
inexpensive jewelry that can be worn in a first grade classroom without worry of breakage/losing
pictures of family and our activities
calendar of family birthdays, anniversaries (are you reading this Mom and Dad?)
a story of a family memory(ies) (in a binder please) that was written by the gift giver
a special drawing from our youngest members suitable for framing
cheap watch (I know, I know...I have lots of them, but I really do LIKE them)

***this list is subject to updating as we think of things we might like to add so keep checking!!

Christmas

I know im a little late in posting but here it is. I am not traveling 7 hours for presents. My favorite part of the holidays is spending time with my family. Like my sister i am having trouble coming up with anything that I would even want for christmas so i have no problem with cutting out some gift expenses for others. I also have a very tight budget this year. I had budgeted for christmas this year but then I got the Dr. Bill which ment I had to change the christmas budget. The idea of the option to opt in or out is ok with me. Ok i need to get to class, i miss everyone. love u lots

Christmas

Things are definitely tight for Emilee and I. We have 3 kids - each of whom seem to get more expensive to have than they were the previous year. We have a new house. We really don't have much extra at all. But that's okay. It just meant that we had to get a little creative about how we were going to handle gifts for this year.

I think that everybody needs to remember the point of the Christmas gift assignments: it's not about forcing people to spend money, nor is it about receiving/buying stuff. The point is to ensure that everybody is remembered during this time of year. It's a means to preserve our connections to each other as a family. It's certainly not the only means, and maybe in the future there should be other means brainstormed and considered.

But please, let's all remember what it's really about. It's Christmas. We are family. We ought to do things to help us stay connected and remembered during this time of year.

Emilee and I are planning to participate in the family gift-giving.

Hippo Song

Me too

I am ready for a decision too & can live with whatever is decided by all but am glad everyone has had a chance to weigh in. A difficult discussion but I think a necessary one. Not sure if I should apologize?

I agree that we should have the chance to opt in/out. Although it is trickier, I would guess that we might be able to keep some of it the same. What about if we ask mom & dad to be the check-in point and they are in charge of reassigning names as needed? Not that Julie can't but I think it would eat up some time to figure it out. Also, I would suggest people email the name-keeper direct rather than post.

We also need a decision about godchildren/parents. Seems all agree the cutoff of 21 makes sense. That really leaves our two (I don't think the 4th generation has in-family godparents?) and Sara who is just shy of 21.

Our family was always good for a rousing discussion which we can leave at the table. Love to you all, Les

PS- I don't know the hippopotomaus song but can someone bring it to Thanksgiving?
PSS- I was busy in Minnesota but have the salon pics to post. The team worked hard this weekend & Chrissy is a great project manager!

As my daughter said

I too think that enough time has been given for discussion and that we move forward.
Tony and I are in.
I also love the hippopotamus song!!!!!! It makes me smile!!!! I can remember singing it with Eric and Julie and laughing away.
Love you all and make it a GREAT day.
Chrissie

By the way we (the Helds and us) are working hard on the new salon and it is looking beautiful. With the help of the Strackeljahns this coming weekend we will be moving in all the equipment. Opening day is set for December 2. Keep your fingers crossed on that one. We will not have a Grand Opening until Jan or Feb. It does seem the neighborhood is anxious for us to be there. We've gotten calls, people stopping in and drivers slowing down as they pass to have a look. Eric Held took pictures this weekend, maybe Leslie can post them since I am not experienced in that.

Christmas Decision

Well, many people have weighed in on this, so props to us all for being communicative. I don't like unresolved issues though, so I'm calling for a decision. I really do want to start my shopping this week, and I need to know what all I'm looking for. So I, along with my parental units, believe we need to agree to something quickly. I'm saying this: You have the choice to opt-out of the gifts this year, if need be. At Thanksgiving we will redraw names with the people who are gift-giving. You can post in the comments whether you want to opt in/out, or if you want, you can email me, and I'll keep a running tally of who is in/out (friendofmusic@gmail.com). I'll be at Thanksgiving, so I can put the names of anyone who emailed me in the pot. This seems to be a good plan for everyone and is completely understandable.

If anyone has a problem with this, you can let me know; I have tough skin. I think everyone seems amenable to this arrangement, though. I hope it's Ok that I'm calling this decision now, but as I said, I really want to know what's happening so I can plan accordingly, and I bet others do as well. If there is a major backlash or something, I guess we can figure something else out; I just want it done quickly. I'm in, myself.

OK, I love you all!! Try not to stress! Christmas is supposed to be fun, yes? Have some chamomile tea and listen to a good song. :) I recommend that hippopotamus Christmas song; that song is hilarious.

Christmas thoughts

As the youngest (I think) on here, I feel my opinion should be heard on the matter of Christmas. And, since tensions seem to be running high, I know that I may get some flaming. 

First of all, if a person or family are feeling the economy squeeze, then I think they have a claim to back out. 

If people are opting out, we should prioritize who gets gifts. I think that the littlest kids (Ty through Mackenzie) and the young families should get the priority. 

Christmas

It's difficult to understand why exactly this is such a touchy subject. If someone says money is tight and times are tough, how would telling that person they should have budgeted better really fit in the Christmas spirit?

We've talked about this Christmas quite a bit and to be honest, times are tough for us, too, as our income is directly affected by the nation's economic situation. If we had extra in tough times, we'd most like to give to those who have literally nothing. I know people who have lost their jobs already and it is not something to scoff at.

We don't have much extra, and I can't help but agree with Leslie that whatever we can save as a family will be a necessity—not a luxury.

Unfortunately, this year we don't have much extra. We're paying the bills, saving for a home, and mostly getting all the stuff first-time parents need to get.

Personally, I think it'd be nice if putting a bit extra away for a future home or months without pay wasn't considered selfish and inconsiderate. It's not, and having kids really changes everything. If someone doesn't have a lot and wants to put what little they have into their family for a time, it's not a bad thing.

For some, Christmas can really add up: X for each extended family, X for each parent, X for siblings, X for kids, X for godchildren. Sheesh. Is it a horrible thing to say someone'd like to give a bit of that to their kids?

If someone not spending money on us meant more payed off on a credit card, more toward their own kids, or more saved, I say go ahead and spend it elsewhere.

Also, I don't think it's right to ever define the right amount for someone else to give.

Ok, so I'm going to throw my thoughts out here, a little late I know, but here it goes....oh and this will ramble and this is like Leslie not just for me but in mind of others....I would agree money is tight. However, I am still torn on this issue. As for budgeting for Christmas...well we had to budget for the big Branson trip, then for an impromptu trip to AR to TN and back in a not very gas friendly truck pulling a U-haul (though we really appreciated being able to use it!) Various car parts and sewer problems have swarmed us with unexpected charges, we are trying our best to insulate the house as much as possible for winter to help with our ridiculous CIPS bills, I made another trip to TN, we are currently budgeting for another TN trip at the end of the month complete with a ridiculous dog hotel bill, there was an emergency vet trip, there will be another trip to TN in December complete with a week of unpaid shutdown for Rocky. And all this on top of the far too many monthly bills we seem to have accumulated. Now I'm not saying this to make anyone feel bad for us or say we are without any money at all, but I'm just being upfront and honest about a good example of how things can be. Budgeting can't always fit it all in when there is not a large enough sum to work with! I would agree that at least a $20 limit would help. That can still add up quickly for families however. And I know there may be some in the family who are having a very rough time right now but don't want to speak up and come forward for whatever their reason may be, maybe I am wrong, I'm not trying to speak for anyone. This is a very sensitive subject I know. Part of me says to buy a gift for everyone I always have before. Part of me looks at the numbers and the other things pulling for pieces of the budget and think, wow, this is really hard. I truly enjoy Christmas and I LOVE giving gifts, more than receiving believe it or not. Actually, there is no material gift that I can think of that I really need this year and I would like to say if it would help someone in our family not to spend even just $20 on me than please don't! I like Leslie's saying about going into 2009 with less debt, to me that is the greatest gift of all at this point in my life! BUT I also see the other side of people who can afford it easily, whether it be because things are just going well for them or they just mananged to save money here and there to prepare for it, wanting to buy gifts for their loved ones. And I see the point that some have begun shopping already so it's somewhat late. But I'll let you in on a secret, and I'm sure I'm not the only one (or maybe I am, who knows!)...I have not bought one single gift yet. So now is the time when I'm preparing to start (honestly not for another month still though) as I'm running out of time and now is the time that it's hitting me what all I need money for and what all I have to put towards those things, as I stated earlier, it's not a lack of budgeting, it's that I could not budget for everything at once. And I will also let you know, writing this is even hard. I want to voice my personal experience on behalf of myself but also for others that may be struggling even more, because I know with us at least it's just Rocky and I and it's hard enough and we haven't even added any child factors in, but on the other hand I feel guilty even talking about not buying gifts. So I have stated at least some of my rambling thoughts but don't really have a clear answer. But I will say we will find a way to go with whatever decision is made.

Christmas Plan

Since we already have drawn names for the holiday here's my proposal: Leave the drawn names as they are for this year with a Max spend limit of $20. The Godchildren/Godparent gifting should be for those that have Godchildren below the age of 21 (unless you choose to give a gift to your godchild/godparent, but not at the family present exchange. Thoughts. Remember shopping is starting and we really need to decide this like today...

Well, it's a bit late in the year to try to rearrange how things are organized for Christmas at least in 2008 - that said, I agree that godchildren/parents being cut at 21 makes sense, and if anyone just can't afford to get a gift for someone I think everyone would understand - there shouldn't be feelings of guilt about gifts, recieving or giving.

Alirghty. I'm OK with cutting off godchildren at 21. I mean, it does seem that there needs to be a cutoff sometime, and that's as good as any. As far as this year, really, I would be OK keeping things the way they are, but I totally understand that times are hard, and so I would be OK having people opt-in or out as well. Yes, I am not a good decision maker. If we keep things the same, maybe we can impose a flat, all-around spending limit on gifts? I mean, the idea is, it's nice to gather together and have packages to open. Opening things is fun. But they don't have to be expensive. I mean, even getting a book or a box of ramen or cookies or a Harry Potter calendar...all nice. It could even be a joke gift (though I am not joking that a box of ramen is nice). I'm not really so concerned with the material value of the gift. And if there's a limit all around, then no one has to feel bad about not spending as much as someone else, etc. Budgeting is awesome, but unforseen things do occur that throw off budgets (cough...having to buy a new car after yours gets stolen for the third and final time and you didn't necessarily think you were going to have to deal with that for at least another year or so). If we just do the names, and everyone is responsible for one present of maximum $20 or something, that's not too bad. We have Christmas to spend time together. And eat. If the group present-opening gets stripped down to one each, that seems fine. Most of my friends don't exchange gifts with extended family at all. And ya know, if you really want to buy something big for someone, nifty. Buy it and give it to them at another time. I'm rambling like my mother, and I was going to try not to. OK--Cut off godpresents at 21. This younger family member is fine either keeping things the same or having people opt in/out, but thinks maybe a spending limit of a low amount would be nice in order to a) help budgets and b) remember this is about being together, not about buying fancy things. :):):)

I do think it is important that we remember that the budgets and resources in our family vary according to the stage we are in in addition to the economy. Please remember that our positions are all very different and be sensitive to others. What is doable for you may not be for someone else. I think there is an insinuation that I have not budgeted well. That is not it. I am trying to think not only of my family but of others.

Christmas

I have to agree with Leslie that there are many of us who have to be very careful with our budgets. (Eric Held would be so proud of me for saying budget)
The holidays are my favorite time of year only because of the time spent with loved ones. It is not the gifts by any means. It is the memories we make, the laughs we share and just being able to be with everyone.
I do believe it puts a burden on some of us as far as the gift exchange goes. It makes sense that anyone who would like to be a part of this names goes in the hat, and to give the opportunity for those of us who need to bow out (maybe for this year only or whatever amount of time) can do so gracefully and not feel any guilt about it.
For those of you who enjoy giving......I do understand.......however I know what Leslie is saying about the feeling you have if you do not return the giving.
I think I am rambling here with little time for that. So bottom line.........
anyone who would like to be in the exchange should let Laurie know
for godchildren the cut off should be at least 21 (it was when you were confirmed as we grew up)
I love all of you and respect each of your individual opinions. What Sherry said about the memories, pictures, and stories I believe to be true. They are what I remember and my family remembers. That is what counts...the love and happiness shared by this family not only at Christmas but throughout the year.
This coming year is going to be scary and very unstable for our country........
Grandchildren what are your thoughts on this? You are probably the main reason this discussion started. We have heard Laurie's thoughts. How about yours?
God bless us each and every one!!!

Christmas

Thanks, but no thanks. Christmas shopping has begun here. I, too, figure this into our budget before Christmas approaches. My list is long, but I sooooo love giving gifts at this particular time of year. I do believe, however, no one should feel compelled to buy a gift...nor do I think the gift must be an expensive one. I have a priceless frog that sits in front of my TV set made for me by a young sister who wasn't even working, yet wanted to give me something out of love for my bridal shower. I also have a handmade pink doily that another sister made...she, too, didn't have any money, but talked Mom out of some material and hand sewed it for me!! Sometimes, the best gifts are those that can't be bought, but are given from deep within the heart. And certainly not withstanding, I wouldn't trade Mom and Dad's birthday pictures, Christmas calendar, family address book, and life story for all the money in the world!!

Christmas Ideas

Well, the elections are over so I guess this will be the next topic for heated discussions in our family. As always, we have mixed opinions and are not afraid to speak up, which is one of the things that I count as a blessing-no one holds back :)
I have been thinking about this as well, I really feel that EVERYONE who wishes to should be part of a family drawing including those loved ones who are not blood related but we are lucky enough to call "family". And although it does bring us close to what we already do-I would like to include godchildren/godparents until they turn 21.
I don't think that it is only the economy-but the simple fact that as our family grows larger and larger (which is wonderful) you have to begin drawing some lines somewhere. Just as when we were growing up our grandparents, aunts and uncles had to.
The one thing that I would really miss would be the time that we spend together-that is the most precious to me and to my own family. If I could pool all of the money we spent and just bring EVERYONE together for our holiday I would give up every single gift given and received!!!
Our children (and ourselves) have so many precious memories of our family time together that no gift could ever replace......ask them what they got last Christmas and they probably could not tell you....ask them about our trips and they will rattle off a dozen stories!
And when you talk to our own cousins they will tell you how they miss our gatherings-I hope that we never allow that to happen because once you let it slip away it is very hard to return to. I know that just by moving I feel a disconnect that I have never felt before-so, whatever is decided I am just happy to be a part of such a fantastic family! I love you all and miss you SO MUCH
Love Sue

Christmas Names

I for one disagree. Yes the economy is tight, but I have already started purchasing for Chrismas and had it figured into my budget long ago as have a few others that i am aware of in the family. Maybe this should be a discussion for gift giving in 2009 rather than 2008. While I agree that maybe there should be a cutoff on when the godparent/godchildren gift giving should end, it's been pointed out that Leslie receievd a check from her godmother well into her marriage. Just my opinion...

Christmas 2008

Hello everyone-

After conversations with my siblings, I feel it makes sense for me to post a blog to start a wider (but quick) conversation. By no means am I trying to force my opinions but I do feel compelled to voice my concerns regarding Christmas and start a conversation albeit online.

In the present economy, we (Eric, the kids & I) are compelled to re-think our spending habits. Things look different today than they did even a short month ago. As a family, we've talked about conservation in numerous ways- water, heat, spending, etc. While we have tried not to create worry in the kids, I think that it is important for them to understand that neither our nor others resources are without limits. I think this is a valuable lesson.

While we are not panicked, we are facing real risks as are many of those that we know. At least in DSM; layoffs, salary cuts and freezes are becoming commonplace. Perhaps it is due to being the insurance capitol where we are surrounded by finance.

Because things are different this year, I am suggesting that we reconsider our traditions regarding gifts in our extended family. While we love to give to those we care about, the number of gifts creates a very real expense for us all. I want to be sensitive to every member of our family from the retired to the single incomes, newly married, expectant parents, new homeowners to the young families. If there is any gift we can give, to face 2009 with less debt is a worthy one.

I know that we all enjoy giving & not a single one of us expects a thing in return. Realistically, however, it is uncomfortable to receive a gift and not to reciprocate no matter what is said. That is simply human nature. So, for some to do this and not others, simply makes the entire situation uncomfortable.

So my proposal is that for those who wish to participate, we simply draw names. Some may, for various reasons, decide to skip this year & that is perfectly fine.

Others have stated young godchildren should be included. Still others add godparents. I would counter, that brings us close to where we are now. As a parent of one of the younger kids, I have to say they won't know the difference. One gift and time with their family is a blessing.

All that said, I know time is short. I, too, plan to be shopping come Saturday. Whether it is for 1, 5 or 10 I know that I am blessed beyond words to call each of you family.

Love,
Leslie

Last volleyball game of the season

What a great season of volleyball Hannah had! she led the frosh/soph team, benched for JV, and avidly supported varsity. Here are photos from her last home game. Varsity is ranked 3rd and goes to state in our division this weekend. Enjoy! (and vote Obama!! :) ) 

photo order

Sorry about any confusion. To look at the photos scroll down to the text, and then work your way up.

Potential new home

Well we found a for sale by owner home and walked through it this weekend with Sherry and Dale. It's an estate and the neice and nephew were in town and were able to show it to us. It's a 3 bed 2 bath brick ranch with a very nice outbuilding in the back and a big patio w/ a "Sunsetter" automatic awning, "with remote."

I'm super excited for my upcoming trip to Memphis! I'm actually sitting her listing to Bruce Springstein "walking in memphis" to get ready....lol....it's growing on me and I'm psyched to explore the new city!! It was actually Sally's idea. She had asked me if we could listen to this song all the way down to Memphis. I declined after informing her that would mean listening to the same song approx 403 times in a row. We comprised and I told her once we hit the welcome to memphis sign she could listen to it til we got to mom and dad's. (I may live to regret that!)
other then that not much news here. Rocky is busy getting ready for the big "opening weekend" of duck season this weekend. i think mocha can feel it coming too as he seems even more excited than usual!
this weekend was payton's 4th birthday party. it was sooo cute, lori rented one of those big bouncy jumper things that they have at carnivals in the shape of a castle and invited her little friends from daycare and school. it was super cute and they all loved jumping in it. payton wasn't home when they delivered it and when lori and i told her at her soccer game there was a big castle in her backyard she wouldn't believe us, but when she got home her eyes were huge! of course lori and rocky and i had our fun in it too :- ) we really are just "big" kids still!
well its getting late and ive been sick with a sinus infection this week so im trying to make sure i get my rest and don't overdue it so i can make the big trip! can't wait to see my little sister and hear all about how she's doing!! (of course i'm excited to see my parents too but they're coming here right after so not as big a deal!)
hope all is going well for everyone!!!
love to you all!

UNDEFEATED!

From the AP: On a chilly Thursday evening, the Packers successfully defended their perfect record with a win over the also undefeated Broncos 26-9 for the coveted I-Town league title. Quarterback Brady Held connected for 3 TD's. Held will take a few days off before reporting to basketball training camp on Monday.

In other news, the Indianola Tumbling Center reports that 10 year old phenomenom Mackenzie Held landed her front tuck. This thrilling feat involves running down the floor, jumping up & planting her feet and propelling herself in the air for an in the air somersault, landing on her feet sans no hands. (No pic available.)

Everybody sing!

Haaaaapppyyy BBBBiirthday to YOUUUUUUU.....

Everybody join me in wishing my big sister Susan a happy 47th birthday on Wednesday! (It will take that long to get through the song, I think.)

Happy Fall Ya'll!!

Thought I would take a minute and wish you all a happy fall-the weather here was beautiful this weekend with sunny skies and low 80's-a picture perfect day!
David and I are enjoying living in the big city-although with work we haven't been able to do a whole lot. We got an entertainment coupon book when we subscribed to the newspaper and have been having fun trying all of the different places to eat. The real fun is me trying to find my way around-seems like no matter which way I go it is always the opposite of where I needed to go! I just tell David the fun is in the adventure of finding things! (Actually I remind him if I had a GPS it wouldn't be such a problem) We have finally gotten all of the "things" switched over (i.e. licenses, plates, insurance, voters reg) and are now officially Tennesseans-I have truly begun to dislike the total hassle of moving to different states!! Why doesn't everyone require the same info and just transfer it from state to state??
Jessica, Sara and Jessie's friend Sally are due in at the end of the month for a visit-thinking of checking out the Memphis Zoo if the weather is nice and of course shopping! Then we will be heading to Quincy around the 26th for a visit-it's been awhile since we have been "home".
Good luck Leslie with Homecoming-I know it will be a smashing success!! You'll have to post some pics of all the fun!
To everyone-we miss you lots and think of you often.....more than words can say
Love-Sue

Trying to breathe

It's two weeks until Homecoming and my pre-event anxiety has officially set in. My goal this weekend is to condense all my lists into one so I can check, check, check. I thought bigger and better and now have a KA-zillion details. Inflatables, clowns, hey-let's-do-a-midway, tailgate, post game party, alumni in residence, Hall of Fame brunch, board meeting... and what'll I do if it RAINS? The whole campus is jazzed which is great. Now if I can get the flowers, signs, TV's, cheerleaders (just where is the mascot uniform that's been lost for 10 years?), balloons, decorations and tables where they need to be when they need to be... then make sure our tailgaters don't bring in beer and the students don't wear t-shirts that children should NOT read... and the Student Democrats table is not next to the Republicans who are not next to the Gay & Lesbian group. Just how much Febreeze do I need to cover the odor of 100 smelly football players once they leave the gym? Seriously- it'll be great and way easier than psychotic kids. I think. OK- I feel better for lamenting & can now show them all how amazingly calm I am. GO STORM!
Leslie

Agility

Skye had her 3rd class of agility this last wed. I brought the digital cam. and took some video.

Fall with the Helds

Here are some Fall pics from the Held family! Brady plays a double header- soccer then fball. Kenze's 10th birthday at a fundraiser bike ride for Orchard Place. First days of school.

Love to all!
Les

The results for Chrstmas Names

Ok, so we're all done drawing for names. Listed below are what was drawn:
(Name - Who Drew that name) Grandpa Don - Kimber; Grandpa Marg - Carolyn; Sherry - Brady; Dale - Patrick; Chris S - Mackenzie; Tony - Nikki; David M - David E; Carolyn - Eric S.; Susan - David M.; David E - Monica; Leslie - Tony; Eric H - Julie; Laurie - Sara; Bryan - Sammy; Nikki - Ashlee; Eric S - Leslie; Monica - Hannah; Julie - Rocky; Jon - Eric H.; Emilee - Laurie; Patrick - Grandma Marg; Sammy - Chris L.; Kimber - Susan; Ben - Bryan; Ashlee - Grandpa Don; Tyler - Jessica; Hannah - Chris S.; Jessica - Emilee; Rocky - Dale; Sara - Jon; Chris L. - Sherry; Mackenzie - Ben; Brady - Tyler.

It would be helpful for everyone to post a wish list as well as sizes, etc. Also, for those mailing packages out of state they need to be sent out so they arrive at there destinations by Dec 25th.