Friday :- )

It's my favorite part of the week again, the end!! This week has flown by though! Bowling yesterday was not as exciting as the week before, we lost all games pretty bad, oh well, there's always next week....just got in from friday night dinner with my cousins (lisa & jr, lori & charlie) rocky had to work again tonight so i was solo, it was fun anyways when we all get together there's never usually a shortage of laughter. i suppose i am truly blessed to be so close to both sides of my family. (today i say blessed, ask me again next week....) just kidding! tomorrow may be a busy day, kickboxing and work in the morning, and then lori and i have plans to go shopping! i feel my tax returns slipping away.....i havent told rocky yet that we are going, im sure he'll be thrilled as lori and i never seem to make small shopping trips together, however she is rather pregnant right now so if i just stick with her we'll probably spend most of the time in the maternity section! rocky works 3-9 tomorrow so i have to entertain myself somehow and we all know i have a rather large shopping fetish. well, im off to bed, like an old married person i am headed to bed at 9 on a friday night...its sad really.

Cross Pollination

Just in case you all need more to do than keep up with this blog, I thought you would like to know that Ashlie and Benj have started a blog for their own new branch of the Midget Family. Check here for even more photos of our beautiful baby Tyler. . http://midgetfamily.blogspot.com/

Sara, I noticed you have a message about Blue Devils stuck in Drafts. Would you like me to publish it for you? It is mysterious, but I seem to be able to do it because I am the administrator. I am not sure how it works otherwise!

Spring weather here! Joy of joys!

Ack, Snowing again

Is this winter over yet? It's snowing again. Expecting about 2 more inches today. This is getting really old. I too think it would be fun to do a sister-daughter thing. But, I have no suggestions as to where or when. Sorry, my creative mind has shut off for the day. Nothing exciting going on here. Fighting a sinus infection, and yes Mom you were right. We have a new benefit here at work called Tela-Doc. Supposedly, you can call to let them know you need to talk to someone. Then a doctor calls you back. You tell them your symptoms then they tell you if you need to be seen or prescribe you something if you need antibotics. I'm waiting on the call back. It's supposed to be cheaper then going to the doctor. We'll see as of right now they aren't calling me back and I scheduled this morning... Got to get back to working on Wal-Mart invoicing. This is so much fun!!! Not!

Love you all

ps - congrats Jon and Emilee on your new house. Coming from someone who just took the plunge, the paperwork can be scary, but it's awesome having your own place.

Nothin' Much

Hey everybody! Just got back from breakfast with Sara-she had made a date with us for her favorite-Waffle House. I have the evening shift today so this morning is computer time.
As far as Easter goes, I have a three day weekend so everyone is invited to Jonesboro! We thought about going to Quincy but that would leave Sara and Chris alone here so we decided to stay home. We have lots of room at the house tho if anyone wants to come South! I can't really say it is any warmer now-but by then it should be great! Sara just says "Ha! Good luck" but you all are welcome anytime!
David and I had a good laugh over Jess's pics of the shower-it made me think of the time Chrissy and I decided to see what was under the living room carpet on 12th Street and ended up ripping it all out when we found hardwood floors and then we ripped out the doorway to find pocket doors behind! It must run in the family as Mom said-I do remember Grandma's chair! Never tell a Misselhorn woman that she can't do something!! Then again I know Carolyn is quite handy at those things too-so maybe it is just the women overall in our family! Better watch out Jon-Emilee may have some projects of her own in mind!
I think a sister-daughter weekend would be great Chris! I am off every other weekend and if I know the month before I can usually arrange a three day weekend. I think Chris or Nancy would be willing to help out at home. Did you ever find out anything about the walk?
Hope everyone is having a great week! I miss ya all and love the updates!

It's not as warm as it looks! Sun is shining brilliantly today but the wind is really cold. And very rough on flimsy hairdo's. Been a busy morning as most Wednesday's are especially during the Lenten season. Next week even busier. Bible class, home, Ladies Aid (have to have some kind of refreshment this month along with another member), home, then back to church for Lent services.
But busy is what keeps us going, right? And I can tell from the messages that all of you are very busy!

Chris, we will be home Easter barring the unforeseen and will be so happy to see you all.

David called and said he would be here Memorial Day weekend. So if anyone else is coming, we need to make room arrangements somewhere.

I agree, Jess. It is frustrating when you have to search for tools to follow you instincts. I can remember my Mom wanting my Pop to build an Adirondack-style lawn chair but he said he didn't have the right kind of lumber. She just looked at him, went into the garage, locked the door from the inside and soon we heard sawing and hammering going on inside the garage. In a couple of hours, Mom came out - carrying her chair. She set it down by my Pop and a neighbor and announced it was HERS to sit in. All I can remember is that chair had better not have someone in it when she went to sit in it! And my Mom was not one to lose her temper but all got out of it when she came out the door! I'm sure some of you remember Grandma's lawn chair. It was still in use long after my parents left this earthly life for a life in heaven.

Congratulations, Jon and Emilee! It's wonderful that you have your own home - now let the work begin. Just kidding. Kids are growing up, all of them. And what a beautiful family you have.

Have patience, Ben. You, Ashlee and Tyler will have your own home before you know it. We are so anxious to see all of you.

We need to get out of Quincy soon or go ga-ga. I really do need to go see my sisters - it has been a while. Dan called a couple of weeks ago and said Si was doing well. Dorcas and her girls go to see her often. I'll have to call Verna today or tomorrow (can't remember if she goes to get her hair done on Thursdays or Fridays) so maybe I should call her today.

Your Dad taking a nap - I'll let him sleep until 3. Then he'll wake up when I turn the TV on. I like to watch "Reba" and after that the one and only soap I watch will be on ("Days of Our Lives".) Then the local news, grab a repast (around here, that means leftovers from a previous meal.) Hey, I remembered that now-a-days the period goes on the inside of the parenthesis - used to be on the outside (which looks so much better).

I just don't have the funny things going on as the rest of you have - "life gets tejous, don't it?"

Take care . Love you all. Mom

Congrats

Emily, I can't even imagine 3 kids, work, school and now moving. You are truly a brave woman! All 4 are events to be extremely proud of! We like pictures!!
Hopefully you will not have to remodel?? like Jessica. Haha I am anxious to see this project in person.
Nikki and Bryan your mom says the house is awesome too. I will keep you in my prayers that all will work out for you.
Leslie and Laurie if I were just a little closer I would go with you to the movies. Sounds like a fun time for just the girls.
I am still thinking we should plan a sister-daughter weekend sometime in our busy schedules.
What is everyone doing for Easter? It is right around the corner. Mom and Dad, are you up for company that weekend? I was thinking of asking Eric and Julie to join us up there.
Happy Wednesday!

You go girl!

Congrats to you Emilee- new baby, masters degree & a house. That is AWESOME!! We will be anxious to see pics. You are an incredible woman!
Laurie- call me about the movie. Can't Fri night but will Saturday night or Sun work? SC women should be in the regional championship game Sat at 4pm if you want to go. Woo-hoo! They are ranked 11th in the nation and awesome. It's red day.
Will be in KC tomorrow actually attending one of the parties I planned. Mmmm... I choose great menus :). See me for all your event planning needs. OK, just joking. Love you all!

The offer was accepted!

Hello All,
First let me say how much we love you all. I am sorry to be so out of touch. It is great to be able to read about everything going on so far away.

Carolyn mentioned that we put an offer on a house. It was accepted and now we are braving the paperwork, jumping through the hoops, and beginning the packing process. We are very, very excited to finally own a home.

I am finishing my Master's of Arts in Teaching degree this month. It has been a great experience. I do feel like I am running around without a head most days, but Jon is wonderful and so supportive.

We'll try to post pictures of the house soon.
Love to all!

Handiwoman

Holy Cow, Jess. What a mess! Did you vent some frustration on that shower or what? Good for you for doing it yourself! Maybe we should get you some tools of your own that way you don't have to use Rocky's! Les - feel like going to see 27 dresses Friday night? Susan and Chris, I have LOTS of books for you guys. I'll bring them to Quincy over Memorial Day. Bring back what you have. Let me know if there's anything in particular you want to read. Sus, I think I lent you some new ones about Anita Blake and Meridth Gentry, let me know if you liked them 'cause there's about 20 more of them... Chris, are Eric and Monica coming to Quincy for Memorial day? I have books for them too.

Jess

Wow, Jess. Are you still married? Betting the tools go in his truck. Was that the shower? Wow.

Two of my favorite guys

OK..........so...........

Ok, so here's what happened....

As I mentioned rocky got a second job, this weekend he had to work 12-6 sat and 12-5 sun, which left me a lot of time to think....bad thing i know...and i decided i wanted to get into remodeling now and he obviously doesnt have alot of spare time so i went by the store and told him i was going to do it myself. my problem is rocky would only tell me where the screwdriver was (if you saw the way he keeps the garage you'd know why i had to ask where a tool was) he only wanted me to take the old door off without him, but, im a midget girl and an edwards (which rocky has decided is maybe not a good mix, hehe) and i was determined to do it myself, so now the old door frame is out, the drywall from the sides is down, as with some of the tiles from the inside, and one of the studs is pryed almsot completely off now i just have to figure out how to get the rest of the studs and the outside drywall out but not all the outside drywall cuz we still need some of it to stay up (we're opening the shower up so there's no wall on the front, before it just had a small door) half the wall is now gone (it's hard to tell in the pic because its the half of the wall inside the shower), and all done with just a screwdriver. needless to say he was quite shocked when he came home!! hopefully, next time he'll just go ahead and tell me where all the tools are.

Fun pics

Shelly's B&B in Marissa

Beauty and the Beast

Hannah, Brady & Kenzie at the zoo.

Sunday Dinner

Can I just tell you how much fun it is to have a house full of these wonderful people? Jon and Emilee have made an offer (and a counter offer) on a house just outside of the boundaries of Kaysville, Ut. I love to tease Jon about living in the same zip code his whole life. Well, he describes this new house as , "almost Kaysville.' We will let you know if they get it. And save any furniture you were thinking of giving away. We may have a great place for it. Photos include Kimber experiencing sweet potatoes and broccoli, Kimber after a big bowl of Grandpa Dave"s mashed potatoes, Kimber and Mommy, Sammy and Daddy, and Patrick, who wasn't feeling well and needed a blanket to snuggle under while Grandam Carolyn read him some books. Grandpa Dave spent the WHOLE day smoking pulled pork and marinating Jerk chicken. It was a feast!

Grandma and Grandpa Misselhorn

Grissell?? I don't know if I spelled it right, it is something that my cousin and I fought over during dinner at Grandma and Grandpa Misselhorn's whenever she fixed Misselhorn spagetti. It was part of the roast and everyone wanted to eat it. Can you imagine?? If you all knew the things we were fed. How about bread dipped in bacan grease.
Anyway Grandpa's blog really got my memories going.

Trying Pics Again

MEMORY LANE

I just can't get over how much I am enjoying this blog. I almost feel as if we have somehow reconnected with each other and I for one am loving it!
Fried Chicken dinners-yum-they were the best! Of course I wish someone had told me at the time that it was not the healthiest thing for me to do to pig out on all that good fried food! The chicken never tastes as good as Moms when I cook it though-I guess maybe that's a good thing for my diet!
I remember the time Herbie and Dell brought the chickens to us to be cleaned. It was absolutely the most disgusting event to take place in our back yard and I am still unable to eat any kind of fresh meat. Ew-those chickens running around without heads!!

Ben and Ashlee-as long as you love your children without condition as our parents did you will never fail them. When I think of all of the trials and tribulations we put Grandma and Grandpa through I am amazed by their strength and love.
Chris-I think I am going to go with Leslie on the "sparkly bugs"-somehow Christine's sounds a little more elegant than that :). I know you will make it beautiful for your "big event".
We had a great time visiting with Nancy yesterday. David was determined to go bowling so off we went-he only made it through one game-but I was proud of him for going. I think we may try to get there more often-of course today he is wiped out-but it's good exercise for us both!
Here are the pics that you heard about Sherry-I'm sorry I thought I had sent them to you last summer.
Hope you all had a great weekend too-I look forward to hearing about it!

Legs

I still consider chicken, mashed potatos & gravy & green beans as one of the ultimate comfort meals. We each had a designated pieces- being the youngest, I got a leg. I also sat in the seat trapped into the farthest corner & had to crawl under the table to get to it. We often had "extras" at the table, since Lincoln Highway was the road our many relatives traveled to St. Louis for shopping. This meant that our rooms must be clean, including the drawers and closets because Aunt May might look. A tall order for four girls sharing one room and one large closet. Susan and Sherry in bunk beds and Chris & I sharing a bed. (This was after my crib was evicted from David's room.) I also remember Elmer & Vi's pizza on Friday nights watching some scary movie that my older siblings and their friends were watching. Was it "Creature Feature?" Benj, you will find that you are teaching your children constantly without realizing it. (OK, that's really meant to reassure you.) Tyler will be a great kid because he's yours.
Gotta go call my Laurie about a movie!

Love, Les

Happy Sunday!
Tony and I just got home from church, breakfast and running errands. (much to his dismay as he is not the errand type) But he did it with a smile.
As Sherry said our weekend got postponed, Leslie and Kenzie were to come down last night, however they were predicting snow at the exact time they were to be traveling so we decided it would have to wait. I did not want the 2 of them driving at night with unfavorable conditions.....and it did start right when they said it would. I really had doubts since it was in the 40's all day and will be in the 50's today, good old mother nature.
The plan was for us all to decorate the salon for spring. Well........I did call Leslie from Hobby Lobby to tell her what I was looking at, I think I made her nervous when I asked what she thought about bright colored giant butterlies and dragon flies. Not what she had in mind :-) My taste is definately flashier than hers. They even had sparklies on them.
We did settle for watering cans and flowers. Plus as I decorate I will take pictures to email her for feedback. Maybe I should post them so all of you can see and give feedback.
Dad's blog brought back some good memories of our chicken dinners. Mom does make the best there is!! I have to say our childhood was very special.
I am so proud of everyone of my nieces and nephews. They have all grown in to quite the adults. I love hearing what is going on in their lives too!
Have to cut this short Tony was on the phone with the census people but now off and says we have to do book work. I'm smiling!!!!
I pray everyone has a wonderful Sunday! I wish we were at mom and dad's for dinner today too!!

Saturday Night

Finally, the weekend is upon us. For a short teaching week--due to President's Day--it seemed awfully long!! Unfortunately we had a change of plans thanks to Mother Nature. We were suppose to be with Chris and Tony this weekend, but Chris called yesterday and said the weather was due to turn bad. We decided that we would wait until we could count on better weather before we crossed the grand state of Missouri.
We managed to keep busy today, though. Dale worked on cleaning up one of our closets, while I caught up on somephone conversations with a friend across country and Mom. Dale spent the afternoon helping Bryan work on his house; I went shopping for valances with Nikki. Bryan and Dad were successful in their efforts; Nikki and I were not. After checking every store in Quincy that sells curtains (there aren't that many), we came home and went through pictures. Nikki was looking for some of Bryan when he was younger to put into their wedding video. Nikki just LOVED the way I keep picture, in boxes, grocery bags, drawers, etc. Laurie you thought you had most of them, HAH...I have them all over. Bryan came later and enjoyed looking through our "early" years....Chris as a blonde, David with his "curls", Leslie who looks like Sara, Susan with her bangs, Mom and Dad skinny, Laurie and Bryan with their HUGE Harry Potter glasses...the list could go on and on.....
Dad--what great advice you gave Ben...I know you are looking forward to seeing all those babies in August.
Mom--I still don't see you original post, I'll try again tomorrow.
Sara--glad to hear you can be with us. I'm VERY impressed with your grades. Being one of your former teachers, I know how hard you worked for them. Good job!!!
Hannah--tell me, do the teachers ski down with you or do they get to stay inside where it's warm?
Susan--Margie says you have a picture of Nikki, Bryan, and Laurie that is really good. She took it at the wedding. She wanted know if I had seen it....
Chris--When is the big "hair cut" class?
Leslie--Laurie is wanting to go to the show for a "chic" flic...are you free?
Laurie--did you call you aunt for a movie "date"?
Nikki, Bryan and Jessica--see you at Grandma's tomorrow...
Carolyn, thank's for helping with Mom's post....
David, Ben, Jon, Julie--haven't seen any posts..where are you......
Mom and Dad--see you tomorrow, Dale says I bring the mashed potatoes.
Have a great Sunday everyone!

FRIED CHICKEN

No, this is not a recipe. Its a comment in reply to Ben's concern on being a parent and how is he going to teach his son everything. Well , Be n . when your dad and his sisters were growing up at 817 Lincoln Hwy. chicken fried chicken was still a special dinner. This was before KFC. T o feed our family took two chickens. We bought whole chickens complete with necks, livers and gizzards. I cut them up as I was taught, two legs,two thighs,two wings, a wishbone and two pieces of white meat along with a back and ribs. Grandma is, and was a superb fryer of chicken. No b lend of special herbs ala Col. Saunders, just flour and salt and pepper fried in deep Crisco. If we were lucky she'd also fix some onion rings fried in the leftover grease. After Grace and the chicken was passed, I took the livers, gizzards and back, Grandma took the wings and the kids got the better parts. This was not done with any sense of self-denial. Parents just do these things and I'm sure Ben will, too. We learn from our parents and usually that's enough. When your son is old enough, don"t try to teach him how to fish, take him fishing. Or, like I did (your dad will say), let Grandpa do it! Wish I could! Kiss the babies for us

I second that!!

It has been a loonngg week...I also agree with Nikki on the WOW factor of the house, we walked through it with my cousin lisa last weekend and even after hearing her say wow after walking into a room I couldn't stop myself from doing the same as I walked in. As soon as we got back outside I called Rocky to tell him I wanted it. As usual he ever so tactfully told me no. But, hopefully when we are done that is what people will be doing when they walk through our house so then we can afford to get a bigger one of our own :- ) So if nikki and bryan end up getting it I encourage everyone to come visit them, (isn't that nice of me) it is an AWESOME house for the price range!
I just got home from Friday night dinner with the crew and then taking dinner to Rocky, he worked 5-9 tonight at his new job (second job) tomorrow he works 12-6 and sunday 12-5. I plan on getting up for kickboxing in the morning and then its work for me too until 3 assuming I make it that long, I don't always stay as long as I plan on saturdays.
on a side note, my little "niece" payton has a double ear infection in both ears, a fever of over a 100 that they just cannot get to break, an awful cough, and some sort of throat infection or virus that when the dr looked at it said he couldnt believe shes not in tears it is so tore up and raw. he gave her some meds and said he doesnt want to call it pneumonia yet but its a definite possibility, so pls keep her in your prayers, shes only 3 and she is miserable!

TGIF!

Thank Goodness it's FRIDAY!.... but I'm up early tomorrow for work.. so blah.
The doggie went bye bye because if it didn't my frazzled brain would have and I would be sitting in a padded room where all would have to come visit. Life lessons were learned and we're moving on and greatful for the well behaved dog that we do have.
Bryan is back to being in good health it seems, although with the weather we've been having it's now stressful driving for him.
We're going to try and look at another house this weekend. Probably more in the right price range for a "middle" home for our lives. I would post it, but there's only photos of the outside and it doesn't do it justice. Just ask Jess. It has definite WOW factor to it! It just goes on and on with room after room and WOW'ness. The basement is finished with a bedroom, bar, and pool table. The pool table stays with the house. It has a nice patio on the backyard that Bryan could do a little maintainence on. Other than that it's really nice.
Other than that not much new going on here. I got confirmation that I personally am approved for the time off for the week vacation... knowing Bryan he won't mention or request it off until July.
That's about it on our home front.... Hope everyone has a great weekend!!!

Yeah-It's the Weekend!

Just a short note before I have to get ready for work. Val called last night and has been researching some stuff for August. She is working on several things but she wanted to know who was interested in the new "Noah-The Musical". If we buy early we can get a group rate plus better seating since it is the new show in town. If you want to preview it go to www.sight-sound.com and you can check it out. Let me know as soon as possible so we can order tickets. The prices are $46.75 adults, $25 13-18, $15 for kids. Kind of pricey but it looks really neat. Plus the added benefit of having some things paid for ahead.
Jess-WOW-a 190 is great! Must be all that exercising building up your strength!
We were lucky and missed the wintry weather :). Just rainy and cold-as usual for this year. David's sister Nancy is coming over tomorrow. We are going bowling and out for dinner. She lives in Henderson which is between Memphis and Nashville but we still don't get to visit often-she works lousier hours than I do!\
Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

Happy Friday! Is it summer yet?? I don't know about all of you but I am really tired of winter.
Hannah you probably are not since your the ski pro in the family and you all in Utah like that kind of thing.
WOW are the Utah babies adorable. I agree with everyone else I can't wait to hold them and spoil them (that's what Aunt's do). I am sure they get plenty of that from everyone out there.
Jessica it sounds like you are getting very organized!! I need you to come here. My house needless to say is pretty neglected right now.
We had lunch with Julie, Eric and Monica last Sunday. They are all busy with their lives. Eric is taking classes to work on his master's, Monica is writing, and Julie has a million irons in the fire (she is looking for a new job so keep her in your thoughts and prayers)
We spent Saturday evening with Sherry and Arlo LaFave playing cards. Tony and I couldn't get a good hand for nothting. But it was nice just to visit with them.
Things here in KC are crazy. Tony is driving every day and always late when he gets home. We usually are on the road at the same time coming home trying to figure out that hardest thing of the day "What are we going to have for dinner?"
Things at the salon are going well. We have 5 stylists (need more!!) I have been very active with the Chamber which is bringing in alot of new business. I was at a luncheon yesterday and someone I meet said that they had heard alot about Christine's. That's what we want to be.........the salon everyone in Blue Springs talks about. We are going to be part of a bridal fair Saturday. Those are always fun. Anyway if ever anyone needs their hair done we do take appointments and special rates for family :-)
I love all the pictures......as soon as Tony has time to show me I will try it myself. I also love going on each day to see what is going on in everyone's lives. Mom and Dad said they really are enjoying it too!!

By the way Nikki and Bryan, what happened with the cute little dog??? That didn't last very long. He was too cute!

Better get to work. I love you all!

p.s. on the time stamps at the bottom, im thinking they are all on mountain time no matter who posts since carolyn is the one who set it up, im awful at that whole time zone thing, but i just noticed the prev blog says i posted at 7:23 pm and according to my computer it is 9:30 pm....so now you can figure out what time everyone sits down at their computers

May 1, 2010

That is the day I am going to try and patiently wait for to have be the day we put our house up for sale. I've never been much of a plan ahead type of person, when I decided I wanted to do something I just did it! But after much consideration that seemed like a good goal and gives us plenty of time for the remodeling projects we'd like to get done. Not that I'm saying if things don't wind up happening just right to where we get things really cheap and can get it done faster I wouldn't do it, but that is the goal day, plus gives us plenty of time to save up a good down payment this time......but speaking of remodeling, Grandpa--- Rocky and I were talking this evening and we wondered if as soon as it gets warm again (if it ever does) if you would be ready for us to start bringing over windows to be re-caulked or whatever? most of them will probably need a little fixing on the wood too, some touch ups on the stain etc. We'd like to get them all done this summer as winters in this house are quite pricey!! The joys of living in a house built in 1886 i suppose......well anyways, not much else going on here, had cardio kickboxing last night and bowling tonight. we tied the first game thanks to my 190 and lost the other two. oh well, its just bowling! but now i am sore and tired so its off to bed so maybe i can get up and go in to work early for overtime........i know sherry, who am i kidding? ill be there not a minute before i have to, but mom i am trying harder to get more overtime in but i need my sleep!! love you all

I think I posted it

I was able to post one she wrote this morning. Also posted one Chris had in there. (Hope you wanted that :)

Please Help !

Grandma has a draft, but Sherry can't figure how to get it out of "draft" and on to "posts". Can someone help us?

Greetings from great white north

Man just when you think it can't get any colder up here. It was -12 when I left for work yesterday. They are predicting more snow/ice for Monday. Things are kind of slow around work right now. I won't say the B word, 'cause everytime I do I get swamped. Working on training manuals for the new version Office. How exciting, huh. Tonight's my first Tae Kwon Do class as a green belt. Should be fun, we have only one form to learn this time. Hopefully, the board break will be easier than the last one. I found a picture from our test 2 weeks ago. Not such a good photo of me, and our dobok's (uniform) are not flattering.

No big plans for the weekend, other than the Zoo. We lost one of the interns so I'm working all day on Saturday's now. I now get to take care of the Macaws. Boy are they noisy! Our pengiuns are going into mating season. We're hoping for furtile eggs this year as most of our group are quite eldery for pengiuns. Anyway, time for lunch. Love you all!

Is it August Yet?

Hey everyone! Nothing much new here just school, work, and cleaning as always. But I am very excited because all the hard work is paying off so far. I got my first test back in all my classes but accounting and I should get that by this afternoon. I got A's on my Business Communications and Lit test and B's on my Business Statistics and history class, but its really accounting im worried about. That stuff is hard, it took me two hours just to finish the homework last night and it was only two problems. I am so ready for vocation. I hope Im first in line to hold the new little ones. Im so ready to see all of you. I think we even get to stay for a whole five days plus we will still get to go to quincy for christmas if we plan it out right. And to moms comment about only getting real food at he house, I finally made a whole dinner myself, with pork cuttlets, green beens thats right i even remembered the vegetable, mashed potatoes and gravy! ok it was just once and probably wont happen that often so she's still our main source for a good homemade meal if she would stay in town long enough for us to see her. It seems she's out of town like once a week. Must be nice to be able to travel whenever you want to, and I plan to be able to do the samething after I graduate and get a good job.
This Saturday Aunt Nancy is supposed come see me! Wow someone's actualy coming to Jonesboro! Just giving you guys a hard time, I know its a long drive.
Time to get to class
Miss everyone bunches and bunches.
Love
Sara

Gee whiz! I thought this was going to be so simple to get on --- it's not! It's snowing again - barely get it cleared and herrrrre it comes again. Did not get patio cleared yesterday so it will be a little harder next time. Oh well - I need the exercise! Babies are just beautiful. Think they have a family resemblance to each other - anyone else think so? Really anxious for August to get here to see everyone - Jen and James (Val and John's daughter and spouse) are still waiting for their new daughter to arrive (due March 3, I think). Think they are planning on being at the lake too. How about Monte and Ilene? Have not heard from them. Hannah, it's great that you enjoy and can ski - those slopes look difficult, says someone who has only tried it once and couldn't make the ant hill!
We'll stay in today. Went to store yesterday after Bible class so we're set. If I'm rambling, please excuse it. See no paragraphs? That's o.k. My sister Dell never used them and we all loved her dearly. How she and Herbie would have loved all these grandkids and great-grandkids! I'm still in my gown - time to get dressed! Dad and I wish we could drop in to visit (especially to hold the new little ones). Love you all.

Calm Skies are here again....

Well big life lesson learned. We're not in a time in our life where a puppy is conducive. Thanks to Rocky and Jess we were able to give the puppy to Tally, the Fish Depot Store owner, to have her sell in the store. It was not a good match, and we are both thankful that we were able to gave a quick resolution to the problem. We're sticking with one dog and probably won't be getting any small breeds again.

Just thought I'd give the update! She was cute... but not right for us.

Nikki & Bryan

Hi Everybody!!!!

I'm really enjoying basketball. My first game we won 56-0. We've only lost 2 games both vs. the Cy-Hawks. We are really good. I'm getting ready to start multiplying and dividing. I'm signed up for baseball and I'm really excited!! I'm halfway through the school year and I want you to come see us. We have lots of snow and I really enjoy it because I like building snowmen and snow forts. We built a snow dragon and it was so good one of the Simpson students took a picture and entered it in a contest (we think they said they built it.) Gramma May is here and her leg is much better. Aunt Patty & Uncle Greg are taking her home tomorrow. I can't wait to go to the lake with my new cousins! !

Joke: Why do vampires like baseball so much?

Because they like to bat. Get it?

Love, Brady (and Kenzie but she wouldn't help)

Yucky Weather

Well-I hope you all are happy! We expect to get a taste of your nasty winter weather tonight and tomorrow. Dropped from 56 to 32 this afternoon and ice/sleet/snow expected tonight and tomorrow-YUCK! I really need to get farther south!!! I am your polar opposite Hannah-the thought of spending a day knee deep in snow sends shudders down my spine!
Ben and Ash-you have an absolutely beautiful baby boy! Sign me up for the holding line, I can dream about future grandchildren :) Ben-take good care of Ash-you have no idea how painful a C-section is!! And to have had to go through all that labor first-Ash you have to be wiped out!
Jon and Emilee -Kimber is SO CUTE! I love the little pig tails-I remember how much fun I had dressing up my girls. And the boys are growing so fast-the lake should be a blast with all these little ones!
Tomorrow is FINALLY my day off! I've worked eight straight ever since we got back from Quincy-and four of those were nights and then two in at 5am-I am tired! Sara and Chris are coming for supper-I told David I promised them I would cook (if I remember how!)-they enjoy coming for what they call 'real food'. Hopefully I can get out to the store-otherwise it could be really interesting! Wonder how they feel about wine, diet soda and low carb ice cream??? LOL
Hope everyone stays warm, dry and safe! Love ya all!!

Love The Pics!

What a handsome addition to the family!! Leslie is right--Midget boys come BIG--Bryan was also very big when he was born--I keep looking for pictures of a little baby and can't find any--then I remember, oh year, he came the size of a three month old!!!
Can't wait to hold both babies--maybe we should have a sign-up list for "holding" times. I'm also looking forward to meeting Ash--I've hear such nice things about her.
Hope your team makes it to the finals Hannah--it's always such great fun to go to State (yes, I remember back then!!!). Actually, in my younger years, we had quite a few teams that wound up in Champaign...Good luck with finals!
They're predicting snow for us, too, this weekend..maybe five inches, but I'm willing to send it on up to Leslie and Laurie..what's a few more inches when you already have so much on the ground? You won't notice an additional five!!
Have a nice evening everyone!

Whoot! one and a half days of school this week!

So yeah, my first post on the blog. Not much new, but here is my update:

Our boys basketball team is in the elite eight for the first time in a LONG time. And the school is going to see it tomorrow. Sweet!

Friday the last day of skiing through school *tear*. supposed to be warm and snowy. Yay powder day!!! during the last powder day the snow went up to my thigh. I hope it isn't that deep again. Last ski day was icy and my friends clock me at a million mph. Well, maybe that's a little extreme. 

Finals in three weeks.... AHHHHH!!! 

Well..........I have no grand children to brag on (Dave and Carolyn get that honor), I have no pets to talk about (that's Brian and Jessica), however I have 3 awesome kids that we got to see this past weekend. Eric and Monica are doing extremely well. Eric is taking classes still working on his master's degree. The classes are way beyond me, I have not a clue what he is talking to Tony about when they discuss them. Julie is busy with work and her life in general (she is looking to go back into legal work). Everyone keep her in your prayers as she interviews.

Midget baby boys are big

OOOOhhhh..... Kimber and Tyler are so adorable!! I can't wait to hold them!!! And THEN give them back :). Ben, you should've warned Ashlee that Midget boys tend to weigh in over 9 lbs which makes that whole birthing process a bit tricky. I think your dad was about 13 lbs. Brady did the same thing to me- the fun of labor AND a C-section. Woo-hoo! (Kenzie was a breeze.) You will be an awesome dad.
So Jess & Nikki, you are making lots of innuendos. Maybe we should start a pool. The first to kill the rabbit gets a prize. The dogs are cute but babies are cuter (as demonstrated below).
Rumor has it, the next snow storm will hit us Sunday and bring up to 18 inches. Better not, we have a salon in KC to decorate before the famous hairdoers arrive!
Love you all!
Les

Tyler Owen Midget

I'm finally posting some pics of the newest member of the the family. Tyler Owen Midget. It was a long day for Ash — after 20 hours of labor, the doctor finally made the call to do a C-Section.

Tyler was a big boy. His official measurements at birth were 9 lbs, 2 oz. and 22 1/2 inches long.

It's interesting how it all happened. Ash's blood pressure kept getting higher and the doctor was worried about preeclampsia and told us we would have to induce labor on Monday (Feb 4th).

Then Ash's water broke at about 3 a.m. on the 4th, so went to the hospital that day anyway. Tyler was finally born 12:18 a.m. on the 5th (which happens to be 2 days after our 1-year anniversary).

Now we are proud parents and are very excited for all of you to meet him this summer. Ash is also excited to meet all of you for the first time.

I can't adequately describe how amazing an experience it was to have my first child. It feels somewhat overwhelming at times when I think about all the things I'm expected to teach him and help him learn. I just hope I can be a good enough example for him to look up to. But I am so happy to be a father. It makes everything else I've been or done seem so small in comparison.

Love y'all and am excited to see you too. And I hope you like the pics. We think he's the cutest baby ever.

It's Cold Outside!!!

The wind is blowing and the temps are falling....another winter night in Quincy..the kids have just left after having their Tuesday dinner. They'll return tomorrow night (we eat two nights a week together...great way to stay in touch) and then we meet at the bowling alley where we bowl on the same teams...family togetherness, wouldn't you say?
Dale and I returned from the Great North Pole, or at least it seemed that way, yesterday. It was a mighty cold weekend in Indianola!! Lots of snow, and then more snow, and then, blowing snow. The trip home was interesting....lots of snow, then more snow, and then, blowing snow....hmm....
Hope all of you are staying warm. The weatherman is predicting cold temps and low wind chill factors for tonight and tomorrow. Wonder if we'll have a snow day. It would be nice!! However, in case we don't, Dale has gone outside to shovel snow and see if the Pontiac will start. He has a field trip scheduled with the girls volleyball team and we might be in need of two vehicles tomorrow. He also will return to the ENT to see what his CAT scan shows. Hopefully, Harry (aka Dr. Ruth) can figure out how to help him feel better. He had another one of his headaches yesterday.
He also told me that he will be leaving for Fort Biloxi (Miss.) early this year...around the 30th of May. He's planning on going down and helping in the tool shed. There still is a lot of recovery work to do from the hurricane. He's met a lot of friends and wants to go back and help them out.
I'm keeping busy...Preschool and Kindergarten Roundup is fast approaching. I'm going to oversee this program so that my boss can oversee other things. We've also got our big spring dinner and auction approaching. My job is a little easier here...just make sure that each class has an item for the auction, help with set up, and serve as "secretary" to the auctioneer....I keep track of all the winning bids. School goes on. I teach, then grade, tutor three nights a week, and do reports....is it summer, yet?
Looking forward to our visit with Chris and Tony this weekend. Hope the weather cooperates. We always enjoy going to Kansas City.
Happy Wednesday everbody!!!
Ps: Happy Birthday Julie. Hope you had a great one!!

Oh yeah.....

and a quick p.s. in response to my mom's last blog............we had 3 dogs in that house

Hello All. Apparently I caused a big commotion this week by going MIA. I got sick last weekend, missed two days of work and have just been wore out all week, so I shut off the cell phone and just hung out around the house. I have learned that this is a big no no and I will not do it again!! Other then that nothing really new or exciting to add from our house, just working. Well, Titan (where Rocky works) did just switch their insurance to BCBS of IL and our office is handling them (not my dept) but I called today and got his benefits and WOW between my insurance and his we are soooo set. I have his as secondary, he's not on mine, he never goes to the dr anyways! Not to rub it it I promise! I did tell mom it's sad for such great benefits to be wasted on people who don't go to the dr much, but she pointed out we'll be able to have kids for practically nothing so I guess that will never be a good excuse! Not that we want to give excuses......more on that some other day :- )
So, it appears the house down the street sold, I'm tempted to go ask them what they got for it. We'll be calling our realtor soon to come do a walk through and give us an estimate on what our house would list for and what improvements to do to make it worth more without spending too much. We're in the process of remodeling the downstairs bathroom, new carpet, ceramic tile, shower door, shower stall, vanity, mirrors, the whole bit. And we've already got the ceramic tile picked out for the kitchen. We're going to remodel the upstairs bathroom and put new carpet upstairs as well and then it will be about time to sell.
Oh, Rocky did get a second job.......he says it's for remodeling money so we can get it done faster. It's a pet store, perfect fit for him, he plays with the reptiles and leaves them there! Well, time to get to Sherrry's for Tuesday night dinner, it's snowing like crazy out there and the roads are a mess!! Hope I make it, good thing it's not too far!!

Nope- one more try!

And this year's photo!

Did it work????

Mackenzie

Morning all,

So, I took pictures at Kenzie's tumbling meet with the camera from work. Guess what I discovered that it doesn't take very good pictures. I'm posting a couple of pics from last year's meet here in Indianola just to give you some ideas.




Isn't she good! She's improved so much since last year. I think she's going to compete in State this year. Anway, spent all of the weekend sick. If this tells you guys anything, I spent 1/2 of the Daytona 500 asleep. Thankfully, my parents were here all weekend and help me out ssssooo much. It's been a long time since I've had this much leftovers in the fridge. Dad also got a couple of things off of my project list for the house. I think he also enjoyed playing in the 8 more inches of snow we got Sunday. We were under Blizzard warnings for most of the day. I think we have a couple feet on the ground and now the temp is below zero. Is it time for vacation yet???

Kimber

I knew I had a more recent photo. She is a real cutie. And a very happy Grandpa Dave. So nice to hear from all of you. Love the puppy! Wanna trade for a kitten (kissing dog)? 

Funny Video

Hey! I just finished watching some really funny online videoes that you Moms might appreciate. The link is http://inthemotherhood.msn.com/Default.aspx?videoId=14?source=MSN_SL_18Feb. They're just short videoes, but they really are funny.
Hope you enjoy!

Nikki and Bryan -your new addition is cute! Boy, you are going to have to get that bigger place soon! I remember Jess and Rocky in that house with two dogs!

Hope you all had a great Monday-and an even better week!

Our Family is Growing

Well... we figured what better way to spill the beans than on the blog....

















NO we're not pregnant!!!










But we do have a new addition to the family...

Her name is Stormy

One for the record books

We went to the cabin Saturday and came back Sunday for Hannah's piano lessons, Carolyn's weekly trek to Home Depot, and Dave's soup cook-a-thon to keep us all in great lunches throughout the week. You just can't believe the snow. I will let the photos speak for themselves: 

Caption on the first photo is, "Please use other door...until June." 

Happy Weekend

Well, sounds like some of you had an exciting Valentine's Day-teacher conferences Huh Leslie? Sounds like a great time-about like mine-spent it at work! We did go to the Reba & Kelly concert last night tho. Had a great time! They had a fantastic show-it was fun to see them in a small venue like ASU since there really were no bad seats.
And Mom, they also had Barbara Jean with them (from the Reba show). She looks like a totally different person-very slender. She was their opening act and also came out and performed with them on "I Am a Survivor" (their theme song from the show). She is a great comedian-very down to earth-most of her act was based on her being a virtual "Reba stalker".
It's been a good work week too. Catching up from vacation-lots to do! We did get a call from our regional manager congratulating us on being #1 in our territory (about 1/4 of company) on our credit apps and #1 in district on Customer Service scores! It is so great to work with the people that I do-I really enjoy my job! And our Valentine's baskets were fantastic! You would not believe the work that was put into most of them! Over 50 people out of 75 participated-loads of fun!!
Well, I hope everyone has a great weekend!
Love ya all!

February in Iowa

Well it is 0 degrees but at least sunny on the Simpson campus today. Hope you all had a love filled valentine's day. Ours was very romantic with parent-teacher conferences. Dinner had to wait til tonight. I asked the kids what their teachers would be telling us. Brady: "I dunno." Kenzie: "She will tell you that I am REALLY funny." That had us a bit concerned. But all is well. Brady does an outstanding job academically. He and his rival, a pretty little girl named Carrington, are neck & neck in competition while leaving their classmates in the dust. However, this is a class of 27 mostly boys and Brady is known for body slides, rolling & other such rambunctiousness. Kenzie is perfectly behaved and works hard (really, I asked TWICE). Her grades are good but she has to work at it. She is known for her funny voices which she will happily demonstrate for you. Eric continues his work on our basement. He is building a gorgeous stone fireplace which is getting close to completion. It is alot more work than he anticipated but WOW! I am busy with my still -new job. OK, busy is an understatement. There is so much to do but parts of the job are alot of fun. I get to meet some really neat people, plan loads of parties but the best part is when I get to see or talk to old friends. I chuckle that some of the biggest goofs in college are now hugely successful. The gift of gab can serve you well apparently. So to tie this all together, I now have great hopes for my own children :).

Love ya!
Leslie

I Finally found the invite

Hey everyone sorry it took me so long to get on but i couldnt find the invite, I had the email with the link to the web page but the invite to actualy join the blog was lost in my junkmail. Everything good here in Arkansas. I took mom and dad to a valentine breakfast this morning before class. Chris is getting a raise plus a promotion at Gateway tire so he's decided to stay where he's at for now. I have had three test so far this week and my next one starts in about 15 minutes so this will have to be short. I wish i could of gone to quincy with my parents but missing out on that many test would have been suicide. Good news is I will definitly be going to the family vocation in august cant wait to see everbody... Ill have to finish this later gotta get to class
Love
Sara

Happy Valentine's Day everyone!! Enjoy your day!
Love,
Chris

No way

I don't know why it showed me posting at 4am. That craziness stopped when we bought the salon. I now can sleep in till 5:15!! Any later than that and Tony is asking if the coffee is ready yet (for those of you who have known him for awhile, his sleeping habits have changed drastically from the past years, he is now a early riser)

It Took Me A Whlle

My daughter-in-law and son informed me this evening at dinner that the purpose of a blog was so that everyone could "blog" OFTEN. I guess it's sort of like a daily "chat" with everyone. They (and Jessie) didn't buy into I've been busy routine, so here goes....Dale is doing nicely from his quick router-routing surgery. Dr. Bosnick said that the esophagus wasn't as restricted as before, but he went ahead and stretched it out for him. The swallowing difficulties are probably a muscle problem which will require some special X-rays and treatment, but he didn't foresee any problems. He said we would know for sure within the next two weeks as Dale resumed taking his various pills. Well, it din't take two weeks. He knew right away this morning that the doctor was right and is now waiting to see when he'll go back for the X-rays. He's also scheduled for a CAT scan on Friday on his sinuses to see what needs to be done with all the "head" problems that he has had. Dr. Ruth seems to think he can also work through these problems. Otherwise, he is feeling a bit better.
We're planning on a trip to Des Moines this weekend. We have a long weekend because of Teachers' Institute Days and Presidents' Day. Dale wants to go up and check Laurie's "to do" list for projects on her house. This seems to be the best time to go.
It was nice to have the visit from Susan. I really wish I had more time to spend with her, but between her "dates" and Dale not feeling well, it was a short visit for me. I do know that we all enjoyed her coming to see us!!
Well, time's up. Mom and Dad will be picking me up for Church service--it's Lent, you know. Take care, Love, Sherry and Dale
PS: Chris, I'm with Leslie....did you REALLY post at 4 AM?+

Wow!

Did Chris REALLY post at 4 am?

I made it

Hi everyone!
Things here are crazy as ever. There is just not enough time in the day.
The new babies are too cute!!!! I only wish we were close enough to hold them.
Congratulations to Ben and Ashley, Jon and Emily and all in Utah!! Good Work!!
We are really looking forward to August. Not to wish the time away but if the warm weather could get here it would make life (and business) more fun. We are soooooo tired of the cold and snow.
Tony is busy from dawn to dusk with UPS and I am with the salon. Good things are happening through our networking efforts. On March 6th we have 2 special guest coming to do a hair cutting class for us (at no charge Yeah!!) They are brothers who are top in the industry. They are headliners at the Las Vegas convention this month and New York next month. My rep called me last week to see if I would like them to do a class..........almost fell of my chair. She is going to invite local salons as well (recruiting possibilities). Anyway we are VERY excited about the whole thing.
We are planning on going to St. Louis this weekend to have lunch Sunday with Julie (it's her 26th birthday), Eric and Monica. If anyone would like to join us come on down. Not sure where yet Julie is picking out the spot from a list she has put together.
Well need to go have to be at a Chamber meeting early this morning.
Take care and Make it a GREAT day!
Love you all,
Chris

Great Visit!

Just got home from our "vacation" in C-O-L-D Quincy, IL! We had a good time catching up although I don't think we got to everyone, even spending five days. We were booked every night everything from cheering on the bowling teams to watching Kenzie take first place in her Tramp competition to visiting with our adorable Grandson! In between we got to spend time visiting with both sides of our family! It was all good-but it will be nice to sleep in our own bed tonite!

Hope you all are having a fantastic week!

Changed our minds...

Well now we are thinking of going a step up rather than taking a leap. We're going to be looking for homes in Quincy that are the size we'd like to start a family so that we're not too far away when we start our family. Then in a few years we'd like to move up to some land and a hobby farm... that's all we have to post for today. We're off to go have our taxes done! Happy Tuesday!

Appt. to view Home

Good Morning!!

Bryan and I went and looked at the house, that we had posted a virtual tour on, yesterday and found that the photos really did do it justice. It is a very nice home that is open and spacious. The home owner is a contractor himself, so he had designed and built the home. The realtor quoted us, "you know a contractor's home, as it's never completely finished because they don't like to bring they're work home." Which is true, but with this house we're talking minor details such as covering the nails or whatever they used on the trim around the doors. The back of the stove looks a little odd because there's part of it that is in the open from behind, but that's something that could be altered as well.
I know that we will be looking at other homes, and we're not quite ready to move out yet, (though I wish I could be out tomorrow) we still need to complete what we've started in this home and get things stored and out of the way. That house is definitely an option in our books though.
We hope everyone had a great weekend and that you all have a Loving Valentine's Day!!!!

To Cute!!

I must say that the littlest members of our family are just too cute! I can't wait to meet everyone in August. Headed home for the busy weekend. I'm working full Saturday's at the Zoo now. They lost one of the interns so I'm taking on more animals that I had in the past. Plus, I have my TKD test tomorrow. Then Kenzie's meet on Sunday. For those coming to Ottumwa, see you on Sunday and drive safe! Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend...

Ask and ye shall receive!

Of course these are more than 6 months old. I will post more recent ones as soon as I can.

grandma & grandpa

Hey! We're on - thanks to Sherry. The newest addition is wonderfully handsome-he'll be a real catch in about 22 years We AGAIN have a snowy patio and going from summer to very cold is really getting us. Would love to see some pictures of Kimber, too. And all the others - we have some new ones of Keegan. Laurie gave me a frame for small pictures but it won't hold all - need another frame like it. Grandpa went to the cardiologist today. He was unhappy that he did not tell him he needed to go to Florida for some sunshine! Love to all. P.s. We'll all come out for the christening (s).

Woo Hoo!! I made it!

Ok, so it's not that I couldn't figure out how to do this, I have just not even had time to sit down at my own computer and get things done!! Nothing really exciting going on here, as Nikki mentioned we went to an open house down the road from us, not that we wanted to buy it, but from the outside it looks just like ours with a smaller garage and yet it is listed for $20,000 more then ours when we bought it before we replaced the 20 some yr old furnace and a/c. The house description said updated furnace and a/c for that house, so I made Rock ask the realtor when it was put in, and he said, well we're pretty sure it's no more then 10 yrs old (can anyone explain to me how that is updated?) And let me tell you, the inside is A LOT worse then ours right now, and we still have a lot planned! So that excites me and puts me back on my 2 yr plan to get a new house. Not that there is anything wrong with the one we have, it is a beautiful old house, but we eventually need more bedrooms (yes that is a hint at kids being planned in our future, (and Leslie I still have 66 days to go!! so don't get too excited) and more yard for our two dogs. Yes, sadly we are down to two. My little buddy Spike is gone. I don't have a lot of time and as it turns out patience for trash being drug around the house and doggie surprises left everywhere, and as much as I love the little guy, we are better off apart. he has a great new home right nextdoor to Nikki and Bryan :- ) Oh, and to explain the 66 days thing, at work we are having a sort of "Biggest Loser" contest in teams, and I am determined to lose as close to 30 lbs as I can and when Leslie was here for "Christmas" she asked when Rocky and I would ever start having kids and I told her she had to give me 104 days. That was the count til the end of this contest. She thought that was funny. But other then that tonight I am tired and sweaty, just got back from kickboxing class and getting ready to go to bed. I also know I am rambling. It's what I do best according to Rocky. So.....I will save the rest for my next post.

Love you all!!!

HEY! I FIGURED IT OUT!

OK-you gotta admit it's cute! How long since you made a Valentine box???

Beautiful Baby!

What a beautiful baby boy! And boy-does he look like a Midget! Tell
Ben and Ashlee congratulations and we will keep them in our prayers!

Lots of excitement in Arkansas tonite-tornadoes everywhere, our sirens went off twice, but luckily no touchdowns in immediate area. Other parts not so lucky unfortunately. Still lots of warnings thru out the night. I have spent the night watching and calling the store (we have no
TV)-they ended up locking down and sitting in the back area for about an hour. Only had one customer-evidently she was really impressed with our team-said they were alot of fun!
Memphis, Jackson and Mountain Home all had major hits with fatalities and people still trapped in malls and college dorms. Scary stuff!!

I spent the evening making my Valentine's box. We have 40 people signed up to participate in our 2nd annual contest. We make boxes just like when we were in grade school and pass out valentines and treats. It is a lot of fun! Hey-there just isn't a lot to do in Jonesboro!!!

Ta-da! Introducing Tyler Owen Midget!

Who said, "The choice to have a child is the choice to forever have your heart running around outside of you?" To Benj and Ashlie's beautiful choice: 

P.S.: born 12:17 am Feb. 5, 2008; 9 lbs 2 oz; first visitor, Grandpa Dave who woke new daddy up; already fills out a newborn outfit; fuzzy brown hair; very calm and sleepy today; Mommy would like to wash her hair before submitting to anymore photos, thank you; Daddy very proud; Tyler does not like the flash on Grandma Carolyn's camera.  

i just got back from lds hospital . . . and yes, tyler owen midget, met his grandfather for the first time.  he was born at 12:17 am this morning and weighs 9 lbs 2 oz.

benj looks tired.  ash looks tired-er.  both say they are doing well.  if you want to call, their in room West 425, 801-408-1100.  we'll visit tonight and take pix to post.

david

still waiting.....

benj just called.  no babe yet.  dr may order a c-section if there's no progress on the dilation front (i could make such a terrible pun here....but i won't).  keep your fingers crossed. or your prayer beads jangling.  whatever.  send nice thoughts their way.

david

go barack ...

or hilary...

Cool! I Love it already!

This is just what we all needed to really connect again! It is so much easier to communicate when we have the time to sit down-although I still love to talk to ya'll! It just seems like I always think about calling late at night or during the day.
I hope there will be baby pics posted soon! Tell Ben and Ashlee we are thinking of them!
I am looking forward to Kenzie's meet this weekend-is there going to be anyone not going? I need to make plans for David.
We also are going to see Doug, Rachelle and Keegan on Saturday-so it will be a fun weekend. Somehow I ended up off from Thursday thru Wednesday-I love my boss-so we should be able to catch up with most everyone in Quincy at some point!
I am hoping to be there on Thursday to see the "pro bowlers" in action.
OK-so this has all been really randon stuff-I'll try to do better next time!

Goings on....

Hello all!!!

Not much new on the home front here... just trying to get the house ready to sell so we can move out into a larger home on some acreage. We're going to try and set up a showing with a realtor on the following property for this Saturday - http://www.visualtour.com/show.asp?t=1037956 the realtor told Bryan there was an area on the property that would be large enough to have a horse, which for me it would be a cow. I certainly like the openess of the floor plan and there would be enough room for my family to come down and visit.

The weekend wasn't very eventful, until Sunday afternoon. Jessica invited me to go to the YMCA for the fitness clase, "Body Blast" which was an intense weight training class that was a non-stop hour long. I'm a little sore, not sure about Jess? Also, after the class we went to go look at a house down the road from Jess that was open for viewing. Well... that was a bad idea for me.. it was snow/sleeting out so our shoes were a little wet and the narrow painted wooden steps leading to the basement with the 12 ft ceilings were a little slick, so down I went. It was a 2 hour wait at ambulatory after work today and I wasn't about to go to the ER, so we'll see if there's anything real bad. Doesn't seem like it as I am able to walk, but I'm still going to have it X-rayed sooner or later.

And that.... is about all that's new on our home front... Hope everyone is healthy and well!!!!

Nikki & Bryan

PS Included Photo of Skye... just because!!! hehe

Surprise! I got in...Now can I get out and find my way out!

This looks like a very interesting idea. I'm not sure about how to get pictures etc. on but I am willing to try. I did like reading everyone's messages. David, we're waiting to hear about your newest grandbaby. Leslie and Laurie, we'll see you Sunday. Can you believe it's 70 degrees here today. Yesterday, Dale and I were driving in a ice storm at 20 miles an hour!!

From Leslie

Hi Everyone!

How cool is this????? We had a nice visit in Quincy with Mom & Dad this weekend. Kind of impromptu but it was our best shot to go. Luckily, Indianola schools were kind enough to delay school today so we could all sleep in. Brady was soooooooo sad his Patriots lost but has decided that they still had the best record. He still wears his jersey ALOT. Occasionally I steal it & wah it even. More snow on the way this week. Bluck.

Can't wait to hear of our newest addition. Kenzie is so excited to help with her new baby cousins on vacation :).

Otherwise at our house, we are busy fitting rocks together into what is starting to look like a fireplace. It looks great but is slow going. We'll try to get some pics up & of Kenzie's tumbling meet this weekend.

Love,
Leslie

one more on the way!

just heard from benjamin.  ash is in labor at lds hospital.  i'll let you know when i know....

david

Good Idea

Thanks Caryolyn for setting this blog up. It should be interesting to see if everyone can figure it out. Nothing new here, testing for Green belt in Tae Kwon Do this weekend assuming I can break the board. Waiting on the next round of snow. Weather service is prediciting 8 inches in Indianola.

Welcome to 817 Lincoln Hwy!

Dearest parents-in-laws, sisters and brothers in-laws, nieces, nephews, and assorted members of the Midgets Of Sparta, Fairview Heights, and Quincy, welcome to your blog. Please share the news of your life--big and small. We would much rather read about you than Brittany, Hillary, Ben Bernanke, or Barack ( well, maybe not Barack, or Hillary for that matter :) 

Here is a quick look at our weekend. We went to the cabin just to make David feel better. At least he hasn't had to shovel this much snow in Salt Lake City, although it sure feels like it.