Christmas Break Day 6

ahhhhh...last day of Christmas Break before I have to jump back on the gravy train tomorrow.

We spent the afternoon and evening yesterday snuggled in on the couch watching movies. It was delightful to look out the window and see the wind whipping up our fresh snow. It made me want to snuggle in just a bit more.

Let's see...we took in 'The Ex' (very cute), 'The Accidental Husband' (another great romantic comedy), 'Unbreakable', and 'Beyond a Shadow of a Doubt'. OK..had to compromise on the last two and work in some action flicks. Made some good progress on my last Santa project.

Enjoyed Pina Colodas and barbecue pork sandwiches last night.

So today is errand day! Groceries and haircuts for the girls. Best get a move on...have to jump in the shower and am hoping to get my grocery run done before leaving for haircuts, so I have the afternoon to spend in my woman cave doing some scrapbooking.

ahhhh..the joys of the LAST day of Christmas Break. Despite the fact that our original plans to travel to NW Iowa got abandon due to the 'winter storm', it was refreshing, relaxing, and bliss to stay put, spend LOTS of time with Mr. Milo and the girls and enjoy our home.

toodles!

Christmas Break Day 5

Well we finally got some snow!

Like my winter jacket? I tried going outside with Riley to help dad snow blow, but then it is just a bit too chilly for my liking. So I prefer to watch from inside. Even pooping outside is challenging these days. Dad has to scoop a path for me in the grass, all my own!

ahhh...Saturday pyscho mom, cleaning lady came out in full force. But house is picked up, wash nearly completed, and grocery list complete. Chilled out last night with chicken enchiladas, chips and salsa, and pina-coladas! YUM!

Watched 'Land of the Lost', cheesy but cute. All hit the hay early.

Madison is already at church this morning helping in the nursery. Plans for today include grocery shopping, watching the 'Accidental Husband', barring the TV downstairs doesn't decide to die, TODAY anyways. It is on its last life we do believe. hmmm...that may motivate 'someone' to sell a little something? Hopefully finishing up my last Santa cross stitich project.

Tomorrow..brings another day off! YEAH! and haircuts for the girls.

toodles...

Christmas Break Day 4

Well our MAJOR Christmas storm is nothing to speak of, other than GREEN grass peaking through the melted snow thanks to all the rain we have received over the past 48 hours. It snowed hard for about 5 minutes and that is about it!

We ventured out to see Blindside yesterday. VERY GOOD.

Made chilli and peanut butter blossoms and chocolate chip banana bread for supper last night.

We all slept in until about 9:00 this morning. Then got up to nothing else, but you guessed it.....WAFFLES with blueberry syrup and bacon. YUM!!!

Milo and I put together out 2010 family budget plus our weekend getaways. Things are finally looking up for the Japenga household and I am soooo excited about our 'surprise' family vacation this summer! I best get a sellin some caskets and cremations! I am on tap to fly on my own FINALLY come January 4th. I am taking Monday the 28th off. YEAH! And the plan for the 29th through the 31st is phone calls, phone calls, phone calls. My first official week of selling is January 4th! We will see if 12 years of sales experience will pay off in the funeral home business.

Milo is set to start his new job January 4th!

We spent part of the afternoon at Aegon messing around in the fitness center and gym. Madison and I did a 'team workout' where every 5 minutes we each got to pick an activity. From doing lay ups, to running on the tread mill, to walking lunges...I burned 400 calories. It was fun.

Best hit the shower, Madison and I and hopefully Milo are off to see Plant 51 at the 'cheap theater' at 5:00 and it is 4:00.

Sounds like left over chilli for supper and some Hasboro Family Game Night on the Wii...VERY FUN and highly recommended! Milo and I played Battleship last night and I think Madison and I are on tap for Sorry tonight.

Merry Christmas to all and to all a GOOD NIGHT!

Christmas Break Day 3

Just got down working out at the club before it closes for the day. Burned 700 calories doing a walk/run workout on the tread mill. Now off to do some Wii Fit Yoga moves. Still feeling a bit under the weather. Sore throat, post nasal drip has settled in my lungs. I should have sat in the steam room before leaving the health club.

One of Madison's friends' family's Christmas was also cancelled d/t weather, so she is hanging out with Meg today and being a texting fool. Kennedy just rolled out of bed at noon. Milo and I aren't quite sure what we are going to do today?

I do know that work is going to see A LOT of sweet treats on Tuesday!

Light rain, but in town roads are fine. They are predicting us to get 6 inches of snow probably starting later tonight and into tomorrow.

jj

Christmas Break Day 2

As planned we had our Christmas this afternoon after Chinese food was delivered.

For extra highlights I have included a video of Madison receiving her cell phone. Check your email. Milo had recorded the ringer, so turn your volume up, it is priceless.

We have spent the day hanging out by the fire. Milo and Kennedy just got done watching a movie. I am excited to report that my sore throat is improving.

Here is the run down of gifts given and received at our home.

Milo
Mario PJs (how appropiate)
Sports Watch (previous one had a broken band)
Travel Mug (great to take to the start of his new job)

Madison
The obvious
New Moon poster and necklace
Pants/Tshirt/sweatshirt

Kennedy
Underarmor (top and bottom)
Fantasy perfume
Sweater boots

Jill
Darling purse from my girl Kennedy. So cute, I had to take a picture
Necklace from hubby (Ironically, last night I mentioned I like the exact necklace on a commerical). great minds think a like.
Wii Fit. (currently sweating from knocking out a few yoga poses with Madison while Milo and Ken watched the movie)

Just checked road conditions and travel is not advised north of Waterloo. Looks like it is going to get messy over night!

Christmas Break Day 1

The goo bear, aka...Gracie Mae wanted to wish everyone a Merry Christmas.

rain, rain, and more FREEZING rain is what we are seeing here this afternoon. I am fighting off post nasal drip aka..sore throat and body aches, so called in sick today and have spent most of the day after getting up at 11:00 on the couch. Milo has a FIRE going, two snuggling dogs are by my side, PJs on and a marathon of American's Next Top Model. Doesn't get much better than that folks! Well, if I could get rid of my sore throat.

Milo and Kennedy just went for a Chinese food run and a foutain diet coke for MaMa Bear!

Christmas tree this year was a naturistic theme, coordinating with my home decor. The girls thought the twigs out the top were 'weird'. I was inspired by none else than a Christmas tree featured at the flower shop adjacent to the funeral home.

The best Christmas gift this season....Milo has a VERY strong job offer on the table in InSync, a company in Cedar Rapids that markets sports wear apparel to local Drugtown and HyVee stores. It recently went nation wide and Milo would be hired as their sales manager. Had a final meeting this morning. Will most likely meet next week to secure salary and benefit package. Start date would be January 4th!

WHEW...now we get to change the date on the headstone to ?.

toodles...food is here.

A Spooktacular Evening

1. Groceries - CHECK!

2. Massage - CHECK!

3. November Bills Paid - CHECK!

4. November Customer Birthday Postcards Mailed - CHECK!

5. Product Order Placed - CHECK!

6. Ask Kennedy about birthday plans - CHECK!

7. Halloween Dinner - CHECK!

8. Enjoyed an extra hour of sleep - CHECK!

9. Birthday present purchased - CHECK!

10. Cute kleenexs and a wall hanging for new space purchased - CHECK!

11. Lil present purchased for my sweetheart to accompany his love letter this week - CHECK!

10. Wash

11. BR Closet

12. Living Room Cabinets

13. Christmas list

14. Set up new blog

15. workout

16. Ate LOTS of Halloween candy - CHECK!!!

Highlights from our Halloween spooktacular evening.

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Best keep a checking!

A Saturday Morning Sleep IN

It is early Saturday morning and EVERYONE including cousin Eric are still tucked away, nestled snugly under layers of blankets sleeping IN this windy and chilly Saturday morning. I woke up to a 'lil puppy' licking my face! (Since when did she earn bed privileges?) Well, since cousin Eric babysat last weekend and decided she should snuggle instead of sleep in 'her shitter'. And so the first few nights back about 1:00 AM, Gracie decided to wake us up with screams and crys from 'the shitter'. Of course, Mr. Milo, with his soft heart, pottied her and in she came to snuggle up and sleep the rest of the night right by my pillow. She is a snuggler!

So her and I have been up, pottied and pooped (TMI) and now she is snuggled up on my lap catching some Saturday morning zzzzs..

Last night Kennedy debuted her Halloween costume of 2009 and FINALLY took first place at the party she attended. Did it help that Milo is best friends with the dad who hosted the party? Lets just say..hmmmm..no. pics later!

She was indeed a BEAUTIFUL fairy and there is NO complaining regarding the multiple angles mom can shoot during her photo shoot because that is the return required on the hours spent creating, sewing, and gluing.

FYI another reason we MAKE Halloween costumes for our beautiful young ladies...have you seen what is in the stores? Let me be frank, I would never put my daughter in something that is just a bit 'too grown up' for young girls. I even thought tights were necessary for her 'short' skirt, which by the way I added 2 additionally inches of fabric to!

As my mom would say, 'keep the bonnet on as long as you can'.

So I survived my first week in my new role at the BIG house, as a Family Service Counselor.

WHEW! Monday I attended a senior expo and helped work the booth all day, Tuesday through Friday spent most of the time processing all the leads generated from working the booth, plus observed some sales appointments and got my 'home away from home' all set up. Cute & Cozy are the words I would use to describe my 'space'. Although I am not to sure on the whole 8 - 5 gig? Honestly I feel like I live at that place and dare I say could probably even sleep there?

Next week, well I am BITING the bullet and going to try to workout BEFORE work! Seriously, what has happened to the Jill of long ago? Well, I said 'I was going to try it.'

So I am anticipating more freedom and flexibility once training commences and I can hit the concrete selling. I am chomping at the bit, however after this week realized there is MUCH to learn regarding systems and product knowledge. I am up for the challenge, but DEARLY miss my dear friend Wendy Wu, who I abandoned at the cremation society, my flexibility, and windshield time. All in due time, right? So in the mean time, my 'get out of jail free card' works for one hour every day, activates again at 5:00 PM and deactivates at 8:00 AM Monday through Friday! I am a fast learner, I am a fast learner, I am a fast learner.....

So what else happened this week at the Japenga household you ask?

Madison debuted her violin talents at a 5th through 12th orchestra concert Tuesday night. I must say, I very much enjoy listening to the blending of the violins and cellos. BEAUTIFUL! The closing number was 'Ode To Joy' played by grades 5th through 12th. WOW! It was moving.

Milo got an MRI of a bum knee he injured this summer during sand volley ball. Luckily, NO surgery, just rest, ice, and Advil. I was very surprised given his very limited mobility.

Well, I best get moving..much to do on the weekend to do list.

1. Groceries

2. Wash/Iron

3. Massage at 1:00 (compliments of my parents and siblings, 40th bday gift)

4. Halloween Dinner Prep

5. November Bill Pay

6. Send out November Customer Birthday Cards

7. Place Product Order check!

8. Start Christmas shopping list...I know OCD!

9. Send out overstock email sale to customers

10. Workout

11. Get boots for walking in the cemetery..heels don't quite fit the job description

12. Clean out bathroom closet (roll over from weekends past)

13. Clean out living room cabinets (a roll over)

14. Ask Kennedy about birthday plans for next weekend

15. Set up new blog for love letters

16. Blog entry....CHECK!

I think I better skedaddle! more later!

jill

Mr. Stonewood

We met Mr. Stonewood this weekend while visiting our FAVORITE B&B in the world. Not that we are world travelers by any means, but the Inn At Irish Hollow...well can simply be described as heaven on earth.

We discovered the Inn about 10 years ago while desperately looking for a weekend away to regroup, revitalize, and reconnect. When you add children, work, finances, and plain ole life you quickly grow farther and farther away from the love of your life. In recent years, Mr. Milo and I have learned the importance of 'getting away' a few times a year and making it a priority in our family budget. A happy, well balanced couple makes for a more well balanced home, better parents, and a better TEAM.

When we first arrived at the Inn 10 years ago, we drove up wondering what kind of 'dump' had be gotten ourselves into. Within minutes our worries were set aside as we were greeted by the kindest 'inn keeper' and shown to our room in the Inn. Little did we know that the food was literally 'to die for', the service impeccable, and by far the MOST romantic dinner we had ever experienced. Upon our second visit, we discovered the cottages nestled back in the woods behind the Inn. A couple from Chicago invited us to take a look at 'their digs'. I distinctly remember saying as we left their 'cottage' to venture back to our 'room'. 'Although the Inn is nice. We will ALWAYS stay at cottage from here on out!'

So for an early '40th birthday celebration' and a much needed respite for our wedded souls, I booked our 'cottage' 8 months in advance and this weekend...we met Mr. Stonewood.

Mr. Stonewood over sees 'all activity' at the Stonewood cottage. We decided that his motto is 'what happens at Stonewood, stays at Stonewood'. And from reading the multiple entries in the journal by other couples who had come before us, I think Mr. Stonewood could probably share a story or two.

Despite a rocky start on Thursday, leaving ailing children in the care of their cousin Richard which allowed for a heavy dose of 'mommy guilt', we set off for our weekend venture. Luckily by Friday morning, news was received that the girls were on the mend and headed back to school. I was able to shed any remaining guilty feelings and 'officially' start enjoying the weekend.

Although inclement weather prevented two of my planned surprise activities, scooter rentals and a hot air balloon ride, we still enjoyed a couples massage, hanging out at our favorite, local establishment for $2 beers and playing shuffle board on a 'vintage' table worth these days, close to $20,000. OK...so I only won 1 of our 9 matches. I still LOVE shuffle board! A stop at the local winery supplied us with our 'favorite' Grape concord for the weekend, plus some to take home. Even a few Christmas gifts were crossed off my list and I found the NEATEST needlework shop, limiting myself to only 15 minutes and wrapping things up as soon as I heard the first 'sigh' from the far corner of the store. Late afternoons were spent hiking the many trails that surround the Inn. A four course breakfast delivered every day around 10:00 to our cottage, plus a gourmet, out of your mind, romantic dinner served in the Inn on Friday evening by the Innkeeper, himself. It was a weekend to reconnect, laugh, and even shed a few tears.

My Thursday evening surprise after we collected our favorite wine, strawberries, cheese and crackers was to cozy up in our cottage next to a warm fire. I had brought all of the letters we had written during our courtship 20 years ago. Of course accompanying us in the background was Air Supply, Barry Manillow, and Lionel Richie.

The letter reading took us well into the night and even through the next morning. We laughed and cried remembering the all encompassing love that brought us together 20 years ago. We were reminded that we were each other's biggest cheerleaders, faithful confidants, and best friends. The past 20 years have brought children, careers, conflict, and the craziness of life. Before you realize what happens, suddenly everything comes before the one thing that brought you together in the first place, each other.

And so we have committed to once again writing love letters to each other. This week we are going to start a 'private' blog site and begin to enter all of these letters, cards, and pictures so that we can create a book. Our intention is one day when our daughters are married and consumed with LIFE. They too will begin to drift farther and farther away from the ONE person, whom they connect the most. Milo and I will wrap up our book, take the grand kids for the weekend, and send them away to 'the Inn'. The Inn, where they can find again the LOVE that gets smothered with LIFE. We hope that someday our love will serve as an example of faith, perseverance, and hope instilling that marriage is NOT easy, always fun and romantic. But anything worth living for is ALWAYS worth fighting for.

And according to Mr. Stonewood, he couldn't agree more.

Enjoy some pics of 'the Inn'.

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Mother May I?

Chicken Noodle Soup, Chicken Parmesan, Cheesy Spaghetti, Cookies (no-bake), Chocolate Chip Cream Cheese Danish, Cheeseburger Roll-Up & NO I didn't plan it with all C's, it just happened. But don't you like it when things 'just happen'?

2 1/2 hours later my cooking extravaganza is complete, now 'mother may I please be excused to leave on Thursday for a 4 day weekend in the rolling, beautiful hills of Galena, IL to stay at my 'all time' favorite B&B with food only to DIE for? 4 days with no one else but my handsome Mr. Milo. Mother, may I PLEASE be excused? Food has been prepared in advance for the children, childcare is all lined up, transportation issues resolved, & activities covered. Mother, May I PLEASE be excused?

So to give my weary feet a rest, I thought I would pop in for a bit before I methodically plan out all my outfits and make-up for our upcoming 4 day weekend. Trust me, I take this stuff SERIOUSLY cause it only happens once, sometimes twice, and if I am REALLY lucky..three times a year. Trips away with only me and my man! Trips that I count down the minutes to, plan meticulously for (ok..may be I plan meticulously for some other things too), and wait with EAGER anticipation.

Do you think I am excited?

So this weekend, me and the girls laid low. Mr. Milo aka...dishwasher boy and garbage man left on Saturday AM for his annual Green Bay Packer weekend with the boys. I refer to him as dishwasher boy and garbage man because of all the things in the world for him to be psycho about, it would be those two things. Thankfully I have successfully accomplished both tasks not once, but even TWICE in his absence.

BTW...when your hairdresser speaks, ONE should always listen. On Friday, I needed a little tweaking on my most recent hair cut. It seemed that a few weeks ago, Beth (aka.. my hair dresser) didn't quite do enough texturizing and my football helmet was starting to show with still 3 weeks until my next cut AND a very important weekend coming up. So a quick 911 to the salon and imagine that, she had a cancellation on Friday morning, that I managed to squeeze into my schedule.

So I shared with her my 'secret mission' for the weekend - more later - and she thought that instead of just gathering all my supplies and waiting to put them all together on the day of, I should really put EVERYTHING together before hand! WHEW! Am I lucky, that I needed a quick tweak on my hair in order to grab that piece of wisdom. 7 hours later, my secret mission was complete, which by most standards encompassed MOST of my Saturday. more later..but I do have to say...'They ROCK'! I seriously think I should consider a career outside of caskets and cremations.

So one last thing before I head up to wardrobe central, last September I started this notebook and VOWED to do it for one ENTIRE year. Now trust me there where moments when I thought I simply could go no further. It was painstaking, but so worth all the time, energy, and thought. YES! I am talking about my 'meal planner notebook'. YES...laugh all you want, but one year later...is my life EASIER?

So for one entire year, I planned all our family meals one week at a time. Every time I tried a new recipe, the rule was EVERYONE had to give it a thumbs up, in order for it to stay in 'the' notebook. Now one year later, I simply flip to the designated week, make up my grocery list and DONE, well with the exception of thumbs DOWN recipes, those I replace with new ones. Little to no thinking, meals change with the seasons, it has provided a VARIETY of things for us to eat, and it has freed up one last task on my to do list every weekend. My goal is when all there is in the notebook is thumbs up meals & snacks, to make a cookbook to give to the girls, so they to will have one less thing on their weekend to do lists.

Well, that is about it...Mother May I please be excused now to comb through my closet to find the perfect combinations for my upcoming 4 day weekend? Did I mention I was just a BIT excited?

toodles..

A Week In Review

A twisted shot, ham and cheese cal zones, a secret crush, Coach Mo, the short straw, exhaustion, school conferences, a secret mission, no school, and a football game.

THAT sums up the week at the Japenga household.

So how does all that work together, you ask?

On Monday, Kennedy had her yearly sports physical, which of course ONLY MOM could take a young lady to her physical. In route, she asked if she would be getting any 'shots'. We laughed hard when she reminded me when she was 5, her and I were at the doctors office to receive her 'shots'. Right before the nurse gave her the second one, Kennedy 'twisted' her leg and up until just a few years ago, she seriously thought that she had been given a 'twisted shot'. O! how we tried to explain to her that the nurse did not give her a twisted shot. But rather because she twisted before receiving the shot was the real reason she felt she received a 'twisted shot'.

Monday night I arrived home from work to find Mr. Milo making ham and cheese cal zones for supper. I laughed hard when I found him with the tape measure, measuring out the exact 12X14 dough measurements so that our cal zones were 'just right'. AND they were JUST RIGHT!

Tuesday morning and evening brought thumbs up for school conferences times 2.

Then some sisterly advice was shared on 'what exactly does it mean when a guy flirts with you?', Madison was determined to find out if Zach, her desk mate was just an enamored with her as she was with him. Kennedy shared her advice on flirting to be 'any time a guy punched, kicked, or kidded around with you.' All in the playful text of course. That was a positive since Zach often times would kick Madison under the desk. So with her plan in place, ie..girlfriends set to ask his friends if there was any reciprocation of feelings, we all waited with anticipation for supper time on Tuesday. Thankfully, it was reported via Zach, through Mic and Jeff, then via Paxton and Meg and back to Madison that 'well may be he kind of liked her.' Whew...no hearts broken!

Only my heart on Tuesday night, when Coach Mo felt the need to fall on the sword for his teammate Tracy, who by all my accounts VERY much needs a ticket home!

Wednesday morning, I drew the short straw of course for crabby kids. Wednesday is my drop off at school day and of course, it seems that they save ALL the crying, complaining, and drama JUST for me! So Kennedy in all her tiredness, caught a few more zzzs, not only Wednesday but also on Thursday. We are hoping extra tiredness doesn't turn 'nothing' into 'something'. Those extra zzzs, however did bring a STRICT ban on sleep-overs for this 4 day weekend.

It seems that we will not have 'Mr. Calzone' around for the weekend, as he is headed out for his annual Green Bay Packer football game weekend with the guys.

I have a 'secret mission' on deck for this weekend or in other words..I must make hay, while the sun shines. No school Friday or Monday for 'fall break'. Me and the girls are laying low, outside of some household projects that need to be accomplished, ie. the 'this weekend to do list' that is currently staring me in the face.

5 days and counting until Galena and am hoping that the weather man is dead WRONG on his 10 day forecast. I would hate for a little rain and cold to spoil my 'birthday surprises'.

more later....

Our French Puppay

Is going to be a FRENCH MAID for Halloween

Sneak Peek!

sneak peek

Saturday Morning

While snuggled DEEP within the comforts of my cozy down comforter, a topped with an extra quilt for added warmth, I was awaken to the sound of my dear Madison, 'good morning' as she announced herself carrying a tray of heart shaped pancakes smothered in creamy peanut butter and syrup and paired with an ice cold glass of milk. Now THAT is a way to wake up!

So Mr. Milo and I enjoyed our cakes and milk this morning before jump starting our day.

An even EXTRA special surprise on Friday evening was coming home to a house cleaned from TOP to BOTTOM and just the way I like it! Mr. Milo PASSED Ms. Jill's cleaning class with FLYING colors. Then this morning, before we rolled out he said, 'I thought you were full of

'!@*X', about wiping down the mirrors and patio door with a paper towel verses a rag, that makes a HUGE difference in the amount of streaking. Now THAT is what I like to hear!

Goo Bear also some how managed to sleep the ENTIRE night in our bed. hmmmmm...someone 'fell asleep' before she was taken to the 'clink'. Luckily NO morning messes greeted us and I think she must have thought she died and went to heaven.

Goo Bear enjoyed a much needed bath last night and a special chew treat this morning.

Beside awakening to snow flurries, looks to be a great start to the weekend.

Off to clean bathroom cupboards and spend some time in my woman cave finishing up the last of the Halloween costumes for this year.

toodles....

I am ready!

Chewing on something other than everyones feet!

WHEW! That was exhausting!

Friday is here and I am just wrapping up the week. It was an uneventful one at that, so no complaining is in order.

Covered this week for Wendy Wu, my friend at the Cremation Society who decided to leave me alone in what I like to refer to as our island oasis. Completely separate from the funeral home, the building sits on the back grounds of Cedar Memorial. It is the building where the CREMATIONS take place. I fondly remember the first time I was introduced to the cremation society. During my 'tour' I was taken to 'the room' and promptly asked, 'Does this bother you?' Obviously it didn't because there I have sat all week just me and 'my friends'. O! I do occasionally get a visit from one of our first call directors coming down to check on things. I am always quick to ask my next probbing question related to embalming, cremation, and all the other things they do. Otherwise it is me, the computer, my radio, and an occasional phone call.

Wendy Wu decided to leave me this week to tour Washington DC and I am sure she will have many a tales to tell upon her return. So a successful week of coverage and it is always good when I can say, I didn't burn the place down.

I have been gravely disappointed in all reality TV this week. Other than Biggest Loser, I am just not feeling it this season. Guess that is a sign to redirect my attention elsewhere.

So what is on tap for the weekend you ask?

Of course my 'deep clean' fall list is slowly being checked off. All of my bathroom and kitchen cupboards are screaming for my attention. clean me, clean me, clean me. A fall/winter switch a rue needs to be had on the make-up drawer, brushes really need to be cleaned, and all that good stuff. Of course cleaning always means it is time to make room for new! Isn't the saying, out with the old and in with the new?

Sounds like a high of 40 degrees this weekend and possible, dare I say it...snow flurries! So obviously those disgusting, very dirty basement windows will wait yet another week.

Tonight is homecoming for Linn-Mar. After struggling for the past several years, they are boasting a 7-0 record this season. Mr. Milo went to the game a few weeks ago and after standing 4 deep on the side lines with not even a glimpse of the game, he left before 1/2 time. So with the cold, wind, and crowds we are opting for a night at home around the fire. By the way, what happened to homecomings like the 'old days'. Homecoming week was always a BIG deal with theme days and a huge pep rally all leading up to Friday night's game and dance. PJ day, Inside Out Day, Hat Day, Dress Up Day, Dress Like the Opposite Sex Day. As I was getting ready this morning, I thought to myself, 'homecoming week was always a blast.' And did I feel OLD this week when one of our funeral directors said she graduated from high school in 2004. whoaa..

So what else this weekend, well I need to finish hemming Kennedy's costume and spice up the fairy wings that I broke down and purchased at Halloween Express this week. After fighting with wire hangers and white nylons for nearly 2 hours last Sunday, in the trash they went and on the list for the week went 'stop at Halloween Express for fairy wings'. It was disgusting to pay $14 for something that honestly cost less than $5 to make. But me and hangers just don't mix.

That is about it to report for the week.

O! yeah...I did mention in my last entry that I am learning to be nicer to me! Most definitely a work in progress, but in the wisdom of my 40 years, I have realized that too many times I have not taken care of myself as I needed to. I have allowed others and too many commitments to come before making myself a priority. In my revelation, I am beginning to realize that taking care of me first allows me to give even MORE to others. light bulb moment!

stay warm...

jill

P.S. 12 days to Galena and COUNTING!

36 Days?

Hmmmm…well let’s see, it is October 6th, I believe my last entry was August 30th. That my dear reader is called a blogging break.

If I recall, my last entry was introducing the newest member of our family, Gracie Mae. 100% Shitz Tue and 100% PUPPY. May be that in its self warranted a 36 day blogging break?

I am happy to report that Gracie is STILL a member of our family. That comes despite at least 7 of the past 36 days posing the mere threat that THIS birthday present was going BACK! Can any one guess what happened? Approximately 2 weeks after the ‘FUN’ of having a puppy left, ME (aka. Mom) was left holding her ‘birthday present’ singing, ‘Happy Birthday to me, Happy Birthday to me..happy birthday to me….happy birthday to me!’ I like to refer to Gracie Mae as the gift that just keeps on GIVING!

I am still in wonderment given all of the recent changes in our household (more later), why o! why… my family would feel that mom needed to add another helping on her already over flowing plate of life? Did I not mention I also was longing for a new Nikon mega-zoom, optical lens, lithium ion camera? Do I not love trips to the spa, coffee out with friends and crafting in my woman cave? Who can ever go wrong with a treat at the movies, lingering scents from Bath & Body Works, and trips out for Mexican food? Obviously the ‘occasional’ mention of getting a Shitz Tue PUPPY was louder than any of the above listed ideas.

So after some stern reinforcement of what this GIFT all entailed, the family once again has risen to the challenge and picked up the slack of ‘puppy rearing’. That is not to say that they too may fall of the wagon any day. Thankfully my ‘strict’ puppy training regimen was reinforced just yesterday on Gracie’s first trip to the vet, where Mr. Milo heard it from the words of the vet, himself. “Gracie either needs to be outside, in the kennel, or being watched or held ALL THE TIME!’

Gracie, goo Bear, or ‘my French pap pay’ has yet to go 2 days consecutively without any accidents. However we are sleeping through the night after 3 LONG nights of crying. Did I mention, crying ALL night? Thank goodness, she is too stink in CUTE to be mad at for any length of time.

Riley is ‘adjusting’. The realization that this new addition is not going any where is sinking in. She is also starting to tolerate the endless nipping and biting at her feet, as we all do. If you can imagine the cartoon with the BIG dog, Spike and his little counterpart, running as fast as she can just to keep up, panting and crying out, ‘Hey, Spike what are we going to do today? What do you think Spike? Is it going to be a good day, Spike? WOW, aren’t you excited Spike?’ Yep, that pretty much sums up their relationship.

Max, the cat on the other hand is still wishing that this rodent thing that we dragged in would just leave!

So after stopping over at my ‘neighbor lady’s’ house the other night to see her newly published ‘blog book’, I deemed it necessary to get back on my blogging wagon. I couldn’t let ONE more day go bye without documenting the latest. After all you can’t leave a well documented account if you don’t document?

So what else has happened in the last 36 days you ask?

School is back in session and in full swing at our household. Back packs, schedules, violin & saxophone lessons, dance, an 8th grade football manager, confirmation, friends, and friends.

The summer décor has been packed away and replaced with my favorite décor of the year, FALL! Warm hues of yellows and oranges adorn my mantle, while pumpkins and mums the front step. Halloween costume creations are well under way. Of course we can’t unveil anything until THE day! But let’s just say, this year ROCKS to the tune to a tin ‘girl’ and a beautiful fairy!

Windows have been washed, at least on the main level and the patio furniture is holding out for at least a few more weeks in order to gather around some evening bon fires.

My reality TV spree has started with Dancing With The Stars (not crazy about the cast), The Biggest Loser (BEST cast to date), America’s Next Top Model, Survivor, and The Amazing Race. So a few nights a week I give myself permission to lay like broccoli, snuggle up in my favorite quilt, and stitch the night away watching ridiculously STUPID TV!

And in the mean time I will continue to long to be twirled and swirled on the dance floor, yelled at by Jillian Michaels. Wishing for once they would make a plus size, model show for 40+ year olds. Wondering how long I would last in the same underwear for days on end and looking for the PERFECT partner in a race around the world and an experience of a life time. I am still working on my pastor at church to be a part of the pastor & parishioner team. It would be SCANDALOUS!

If you are wondering, which I am sure you are, I am STILL working on that mammoth cross stitch project I started in June! May be by NEXT June it will be done? But it is EXACTLY what I look forward to every night curled up tight in my quilt.

Milo is plugging along with the start of his new business. Some days are good and some days not so much. I am praying that by January 1st and a year later, the hard hit of a job loss cloud will be lifted and new passions will be ignited. Time will only continue to direct us on new paths, new passions, and ventures in store.

Speaking of JOBS, God does have a way of making me laugh sometimes. You know that part-time gig at the funeral home that was suppose to be a little something to help us out during a transition time? THAT has taken on a life all its own. November 1st, I will begin as a full-time Family Service Counselor, assisting families and individuals with pre-planning needs as well as meeting with families who have just lost a loved one to assist in securing a burial location. Seriously most days I shake my head in wonderment, asking how did this just happen? How did I go from answering the phones for a few hours a day, to serving as an after-care counselor and helping to improve that program, to covering for a few vacations, to a Family Service Counselor? In retrospect it is amazing how things work out. This will provide a full plate of benefits for our family, the opportunity to use much of my past 12 years of sales experience in a new challenging environment, and a means to replace much that was lost last December. Thus alleviating much stress from my husband’s weary mind. AND after the past 12 years, I am completely enjoying NOT working in the evening and most every weekend. Work is at work and home is at home.

So essence we have encountered a ‘role reversal’. He has picked up all the child transportation, is in the beginning stages of reading new recipes, grocery shopping is the next to pass off, and house cleaning, well lets just say we are ‘working’ on that one.

20 years of embedded roles in our house are not easy to transition over night. That coupled with my years of household managerial experience, a bit of OCD, and some control issues?

Like I said….’we are working on it’.

So that about sums up that past 36 days.

And you ask what about the next 36 days? Hmmmmm…well I can’t divulge too much. I do know that is will consist of a much needed stress reliever weekend for Milo and the boys in Milwaukee for the annual Packer game. We can’t forget about a romantic, fun filled weekend in Galena for Milo and Jill to celebrate the milestone of turning 40, no puppies allowed! Did I mention that Milo turns 40 in November? We will have our traditional Halloween dinner and my 13 year old will be turning 14!

So there will be lots to share in the upcoming weeks, coupled with new things to learn with on the job training, more puppy rearing, some reality TV moments, window washing on the lower level, some dirty bathroom cupboards and closets that need to be cleaned, and of course making it through the crazy thing we call life.

I am B…A…C…K!

P.S. Did I mention, I am being nicer to myself? (more later)

Gracie Mae

Welcome to the newest member of our family

My 40th birthday present

Gracie Mae

Born July 10th

100% Shitz Tue & cute as a teddy bear!

She is VERY popular in the neighborhood

And OF course a DIVA puppy already

Even her 'older' sis thinks she is not too bad.

Let the puppy training BEGIN!

You Don't Know Until It Is Gone

It was a wonderful, RELAXING weekend. Even with the mundane weekend tasks of cleaning, groceries, and laundry; time was spent hanging with good friends, a date night, watching a movie, and getting in a few games of Hill Billy Golf.

The past few months have brought a marked realization that despite the many perks of working from home, the a down side had been the ability to TRULY relax.

With all the changes in our household over the past 8 months including the loss of Milo's job, his transitioning to working from home, me looking for part time work to supplement our income, role changes for me at home and work, and more changes still to come. All of this has unraveled many NEW emotions AND revelations.

One of the first for me being the ability to leave work at work.

I was so caught up in focusing on the 'perks' of working from home that I never realized one major down side was I LOST my ability to TRULY relax.

There was ALWAYS the opportunity to work because it was ALWAYS there. The "on" switch never shut "off", it followed me EVERY WHERE!

While I firmly believe that things happen for a reason. The events of the past 8 months as they continue to unfold continue to bring new insights and lessons to be learned.

Stay tuned.

The Escape!

If you have been married for any length of time, you know that things can get....well....a little boring. I think that is a big reason why there are some many affairs and such a high divorce rate.
So what do you do?

Marriage is HARD work.

So when Milo suggested a few weeks ago that we start 'dating' again. I thought, 'What the heck'. After 20 some years, I could use a little spice in my life.

'You know like when you couldn't wait to see each other. You didn't burp and fart in front of each other. You took EXTRA special care in getting dressed up.'

So I agreed and since we have been 'courting' again.

I kissed him good-bye yesterday and before he could barely get 'I love you' out of his mouth he said 'I like you A LOT.'

I wonder if he realizes that often times a proposal results from dating someone for a period of time?

So last night was date night. I haven't been on a date night since 2008, other than our anniversary celebration. We have been tightly watching our dimes and pennies waiting to see how our economical situation shakes out!

The stars aligned when we got wind that Madison was invited to a sleep-over birthday party and Kennedy had an invitation to a friends bon fire followed up with a sleep-over. A short while later an invitation for dinner and drinks came my way.

The day was filled with anticipation and I was telling EVERYONE I saw, 'I got asked out on a date tonight!' Funny as it sounds, even 'pretending' that we were dating lit a spark!

With anticipation, after work I decided to get a new shirt for the evening, got in a great workout, then showered and got all pretty for my 'gentleman' friend to pick me up in his mini van. That is what you do preparing for a date right?

We had a relaxing dinner at Biaggis, where we went in with a $50 gift card and came out with another $50 gift card and our dinner paid for! hmmmm...interesting? That is what happens when you are friends with the manager and she decides to pick up a used pair of golf clubs from your house on Monday. Not a bad deal!

After dinner we found a new establishment called 'The Hub' that only played 70's and 80's music. We enjoyed a few drinks, rocked out to a little 867-5309, Billie Jean, and The Escape. We laughed because at some point, wouldn't you agree we all consider an escape?



But then with a little hard work, some elbow grease, and a lot of patience, we realize that the BEST escape we have is right in front of us!

NO weekend plans. Slept in this morning. Enjoying my coffee and PJS. Plan to take Riley swimming at K9 splash. Beaver swimming pool is open for the last day of the year, inviting all four legged creatures of the dog variety a dip in the pool. May be some wash and a few groceries. LAZY, LAZY weekend!

toodles!

1st Day of School!

Their school bags are packed with fresh new crayons and colored pencils. New tennis shoes adorn their feet. The beauticians and dentists have been visted. Activity tickets purchased. Class registrations complete. It IS the first day of SCHOOL!

This year it hit me on the way home from registration. Next YEAR I will have a freshman and a middle schooler. WOW! Time does fly. So this year I am relishing my 8th grader and my 5th grader.

First day of school...so everyone was up and at em, without 50 reminders. Give em a week and I will be back to playing my tape recorder...get up, get dressed, the bus is coming, did you brush your teeth, comb your hair, get up, get dressed, the bus is coming, did you brush your teeth, comb your hair, get up..get dressed....?

One day EVERY school year I enjoy the independence and efficiency that comes with the excitement of the first day of school. I LOVE the start of summer, but I also LOVE the start of the school year. With that comes routine, family suppers, early to bed and early to rise, dance, cross country, orchestra and concert band, basketball, track, confirmation, and may be swim team. It also means fall/winter are knocking on summer's door. I am itching to change out my decor, plant my mums and pull out my sweat shirts.

Happy First Day of School!

Happy Birthday to ME!

It is 4:00 AM and I am driving down Interstate 90 in route to Iowa. My ipod is keeping me awake to the tune of all my favorites. The hot, highly caffeinated coffee is my life line to alertness while my family is fast asleep. Just 4 short hours ago I turned 40 as the clock struck midnight. It seems that every speed limit sign with a minimum speed of 40 mph flashes 40-40-40 as I whiz by in the wee hours of the morning. Happy Birthday to me.

In order to do this entry justice, however I must back up to 4:00 AM 24 hours earlier. I am awaken to the sound of 'The Mo' (Milo's mom) as she happily comes into our room singing, 'rise and shine'. She is off to work and we are off on what we planned to be a 2 day venture from Idaho back to Iowa for the conclusion of our family's summer vacation.

I should have know from the start, the day was going to be plagued with disaster as a 1/2 hour pack up and load turned into a 90 minute ordeal of continually stepping in dog poop, washing flip flops, and deodorizing the van in the dark of the early morning hour.

By 5:30 AM and dog poop free, we waved our good byes and set off for our destination, Murdo, SD. The girls warned me not to go to sleep. They were certain their father would get lost in route to the interstate. Guaranteed, 90 minutes later and an extra 45 minutes on a windy mountain road, Milo (aka Macho Man) did indeed miss his turn short of 100 yards, leaving us laden with car sickness and an extra 45 minutes in the van

Water, upright positions, peppermint gum, and a straight road restored our nauseated stomachs and we settled in for the long haul ahead.

One stomach however did not get settled and 2 hours into our day, Riley (the dog) is inflicted with a BAD case of car sickness followed up with a pile of puke in the back corner of the van. Eewws and gross were the screams that came from the back and we quickly pull over to clean up what was to be the first of three 'puke stops'. The first was not too bad. The second takes out Madison's pillow and a few other blankets, but the THIRD? Was the worst!

Now 6 hours into the trip, Riley comes up for a 'front seat' visit. Within seconds, she projectile vomits all over Milo, the seat, down the seat belt, including the buckle and places where no hand can go! The LAST of it ends up in our soft sided cooler. If I didn't think the current odor mixture of puke and lavender scented Fe breeze wasn't bad enough, this final episode just pushed it over the top!

Now sitting on the side of the road in the middle of nowhere, Montana I quickly discover new ways to use the remaining 50 count 4 gallon trash bags, 6 hand wipes, and 10 Windex pads left to clean up this 'puke stop'. The cooler is beyond redeemable only the pop cans and Gatorade we manage to pull from the depths of the puke, bagging them up to be disinfected at a later date.

The van floor becomes littered with bag upon bag of packaged puke covered items.

An emergency 411 call to our veterinarian is made with prescription of 75 mg of Benadryl every 3 hours. I question should that be for ME or for Riley. I seriously wonder how will I survive the remaining 15 hours.

The smell, a mixture of stomach juices and lavendar FeBreeze. You actually could get use to it after being in such confined quarters hour after hour. The problem came when you had to exit and reenter, prompting the entire readjustment period to begin again.

The girls were put on STRICT puke patrol and we were determined to teach Riley the importance of the 'trash can'. I did manage to 'trick' her into 25 mg of Benadryl via chicken nugget. Other attempts were simply refused with a turn of the head. If anything were to happen to Riley, I of course would be the one accused of over-dosing her as I clamped down on her mouth refusing to let go, until she swallowed the contents. I was the mad woman, with greasy hair, screaming, 'swallow dog, swallow!'

At 2:00 PM I did a mathematical count up and I realize that the 10:00 PM arrival time to the Super 8 in Murdo, SD was now going to be closer to 12:30 AM without any more puke or potty stops. I question the sanity of spending $85 for a mere 5 hours of sleep, packing and unpacking, but most importantly shutting up the odor filled van for any extended period of time and then having to reeenter.

I suggest to 'the driver', 'May be we should just drive it straight through and start taking turns with the driving.' My suggestion is taken under consideration but the thought of ME driving is adamantly denied.

A few hours later we take a poll and it is decide that in the best interest of all the parties involved it would be best to just 'beat it down the road'. The hotel reservation is canceled AND once again my request to drive is denied. So with every failed attempt my response is to break out in song, 'Macho, Macho..man...I've got to be a Macho Man.' It is either that or he simply wanted to wear the badge of honor that read, 'I drove for 26 hours straight'.

At 11:00 PM and near Wall, SD delirium sets in. Kennedy is singing a made up song about wanting to take drugs. Madison is crying because Riley tried eating her foot as a midnight snack. And the invasion of 'space' becomes a HOT topic. I have since resigned to Macho Man and simply pray that he will soon remove his ego in exchange for a few hours of rest. In the mean time I catch a few zzzs.

At 1:30 AM I am awaken with a tap on the shoulder and a man filled with defeat. 'I just can't do it any more I need to lay down, just for a few minutes. Are you sure you can drive?' Of course I think, 'HELLO...you have been driving for 18 hours?' I snap awake after only a few short and frequently interrupted hours of sleep, ask to pull over in order to find my 'tunes', and a large cup of coffee. Kennedy pipes up from the back, 'Nite, nite...Macho Man.'

For the next 7 hours I mouth the words to my all my favorite tunes, rock out like Bon Jovi, down 40 oz of coffee, chew my peppermint gum, and realize I just turned 40! Happy Birthday to me!

It was later discovered that the cause of Riley's sickness was her late night indulgence in the remaining 1/2 sheet of birthday cake, vanilla with butter cream icing and cream filling. I guess it was her way of saying 'Happy Birthday'.

I pull into the driveway look back and check to see that Madison still has all of her appendages. Macho Man and druggie girl are curled up and still fast asleep. I move my filmy, greasy body out of the puke van and upstairs to my hot shower.

I curl up in my silky PJs, down comforter, and sleep until 2:00. I wonder down stairs to find a desk full of mail, orders to be filled, bags to be unpacked. The girls are off to catch up with friends. Macho Man did get the van cleaned out, however is off on a motorcycle ride. Happy Birthday to me!

40 days ago my sister gave me one of the most meaningful birthday gifts to date, 40 sealed envelopes, one to be open each day leading up to August 15th. The envelopes contained reasons my she admired, loved, and respected me. I couldn't wait each morning to open my envelope and enjoy my first cup of coffee.

Growing up Julie, always had a very sensitive stomach. We shared a room and a bed until I graduated from high school and many nights I would awake to the sounds, feel, and smell of her upset stomach. This morning before I cozied under the covers, I opened the last of my 40 envelopes.

It read....'The #1 reason why I love, respect, and admire you...because I don't know anyone who I could puke on over and over and they would still love me.' I died laughing and thought how appropriate.

From Macho Man and the girls, there were no parties or presents (except for the 8 week old Shitz Tu puppy they are trying to convince me should be my be-lated birthday gift next week). Birthdays are just not a big thing for Macho Man, so after 20 some years I have simply come to anticipate such. After an early morning birthday wish, the day continued as normal with mom/wife reentering reality. Groceries needing to be restocked, the house cleaned, bills paid, laundry, and school schedules logged for the start of school on Wednesday. Other than a disruption of sleep, the day rolls on like all others. But some how I think THIS milestone birthday will go down as probably one of the most memorable to date!

Happy Birthday to ME!

Jill

Final Completion of the Office Re-Org!

Closet Before

Office Before

Office After

HIS

HERS

HIS

HERS

Sisterly Love

There really IS such a thing! Fleeting moments caught on film at the LAST swim meet of the year. 68 degrees, cloudy, and cold. Felt more like we should be at a football game.

Weekend highlights included Madison knocking 5 seconds off her IM time, 3 seconds off her butterfly. Kennedy being DQd in the freestyle for failure to touch the wall upon turning/sinking.

Will Kennedy be participating EVER again on swim team? When interviewing the next potential, Janet Evans...the answer was 'NO!'

Other weekend activities...lounging on the deck for hours on end. A visit from PaPa and Grandma, a couple bottles of wine, a trip to Target for new school back packs, BBQue ribs, corn muffins, seven layer salad, and Delicious cookies. 8:30 church to hear Kennedy play her 'original composition'. 10:45 AM movie, 'My Sisters Keeper'. Bring your tissue. I don't think I have EVER gone to a movie at 10:45 AM. The afternoon brings fetching some groceries, house straightening, and tonight...VBS! Crocodile Dock. I can't WAIT!

Office ReDesign

Carter made his way safe and sound back to Dell Rapids, SD this morning. By 9:45 I was in Office Max planning, modeling, and shaping my plan for an office re-organization in order to accommodate Mr. Milo into my space along with all of HIS stuff!

You could say, 'we are movin in together?' Sounds scrumptious!

The office re-org is nearly complete. Minus the bookcase and desk that had to be ordered. Not a drawer, corner, or cupboard went untouched. 9 hours later, I believe I am happy to now have a 'companion' in my space. Barring he is a tidy one!

So instead of facing the windows, I know face the wall. Nothin fuels my blood more than a day of reorganizing and throwing away!

One super, duper trash bag headed out to the garage and can you believe that was only for one room! But a fresh CLEAN, re organized space feels delightful.

Due to some downsizing many EMPTY containers made there way to my woman cave, which means another reorg is on tap for tomorrow!

So with that I believe my Colorado Bulldog and I will make our way to the bedroom for a face wash, a cozy comforter, and some channel surfing.

Sounds scrumptious!

My 'office mate' appears to be a bit pre-occupied with a Wii boxing game.

At some point I may consider asking my new office mate if he would be interested in a little 'office hanky panky'?

will keep you posted.

Carter Cousin Camp - Day 5

Well I can't say I was around much of the day as work obligations prevailed over playing. From the looks of things Carter has been in the same outfit since yesterday morning, including sleeping. ooppss.. I promise he will be showered and clean upon drop off tomorrow at noon!

Last nights episode of Oreos and Nutter Butter almost proved to be a disaster. I am not kidding when I say those two downed 3/4 the bag of Oreos in 10 minutes! Before I knew what happened, Carter was gagging as he came running into my office, convinced he was going to throw up! Within 15 minutes the impact of the Oreos consumed pasted and the sugar rush was in FULL swing!

Madison taught Carter 'text language' all day. So last night during Mario Cart coupled with 3/4 bag of Oreos, can you say 'fast forward'? ttyl, lol, omg, etc

So tonight the volcanoes erupted!

The classic line of the day was after unpacking a product order and with packing peanuts in plenty, Carter and Madison decided to 'pull a fast one on Milo'. Luring him over to the front door suddenly from up above came a shower of packing peanuts!

Carter was laughing so hard. "This was the BEST thing about Cousin Camp."

So forget the worms, virtual vomit, pseudo snot, Imaginrium, volcanoes, treasure hunting, and endless games of Mario Cart, give them a box some packing peanuts and that is the highlight of the week!

And so that nearly wraps up Round 2 of Cousin Camp. We are still waiting on confirmation from Cousins Jordan and Olivia for their arrival date and time in the next few weeks. Looks like Cousin Eric however will be having an extended one month stay at Cousin Camp, while he waits to move into his apartment and start his new job on July 20th.

While Uncle Milo has driving duties tomorrow, Aunt Jill needs to catch up on some work and do a MAJOR office reorganization!

For a complete pictorial recap of this week, please visit my facebook page.

So until next year.....BCFL (Best Cousins for Life)

Carter Cousin Camp - Day 4

And so the story continues.

Cousin Camp Day 4

The crew slept in while Milo and Jill headed off to work today. It appeared for the 6 hours I was absent that mac and cheese got made and eaten, a trip to Road Ranger for slushies, stories of a 'serial killer' were told (watch out Cheerios, your demise is close at hand..according to Carter), and endless and I do mean endless games of Mario Party 8 were played!

They have now officially titled themselves Toad and Toadette, aka....brother and sister.

So once I arrived home it was time to get these video game junkies out for some FRESH air. I think their brains needed it!

We ventured for our FIRST of many geocaching experiences! HOW FUN!

One of my customers clued me into geocaching and I think I might be addicted! All over the world are 'buried treasures' just waiting to be discovered and logged!

So despite some bumps with figuring the GPS navigation coordinates, we ventured off with only our map and a few clues on hand.

Our first discovery was a SUCCESS! Inside the cache box we found some GEO coins (of which you CAN NOT remove unless you can replace them with others) and a LOG book to log WHO discovered the treasure and when.

Our second VENTURE? Well lets just say...CHALLENGING. This map and clues led us DEEP onto the trails of Beaver Park where we walked and walked and walked looking for the camouflaged ammo canister which claimed to be LOADED with loot!

We were convinced we were in the right 'neck of the woods'. But after two 'squat and pee attempts' one being an unsuccessful aim resulting in wet jeans, flip flops, and a distraught daughter. Coupled with a convinced Cousin Carter that we were lost and would NEVER find our way out we GAVE up our search and headed home for a shower and supper.

I AM however returning to Beaver Park at some point!

I believe it is most advantages when deep in the woods to have your trusty GPS system to guide you in the right direction. We were simply operating on a few clues and a perspective on our situation.

However according to our clues, a 5 year old found it!

After we cleaned up we whipped up some grilled cheese/peanut butter sandwiches along with some fruit for supper. Aunt Jill was pooped!

Sorry to say, but the video maniacs are back at it in FULL force! In fact I just got hit up to run to the Road Ranger for Oreos and Slushies...

And it looks like the 'room service' order phoned into Uncle Milo just pulling into the driveway is going to be fulfilled as I hearing flip flops and feet racing out the door.

Sugar and Video games at 9:00 PM at Cousin Camp? Does it get any better?