December 30, 2009
Aunt Amy's christmas presents made it here today. Max was sooo excited to get some lincoln logs. We sat down and put them together in 3 different versions then decided we DEFINITELY need more logs. Max turned to me and said, "let's go to LincolnLogs.com and find some more". Um what? Seriously how does he know this stuff?
Going to the chapel and we're gonna
December 19, 2009
get MARRIED! My little sister, Amy and her boyfriend John got married yesterday. It was kind of a last minute decision on the date so I wasn't able to go but I do have a few photos. This one is one of my favorites.
get MARRIED! My little sister, Amy and her boyfriend John got married yesterday. It was kind of a last minute decision on the date so I wasn't able to go but I do have a few photos. This one is one of my favorites.
Congratulations guys and welcome to our crazy family John!
Kids...
December 10, 2009
Say the darndest things...
Maggie and I went to the park yesterday. She was playing in the sand with a kid about 2 1/2 years old. She was just jabbering away in spanish about nothing really. "I go to the turtle school, Martin is my friend..." Then she stops, looks him in the eye and says, "Mire, en Ingles hiiiii" (which essentially means in English we say "hi"). What a nut! The boy was completely uninterested and didn't respond whatsoever.
Today after school she told me she was going to write a song. She sat for a long while with paper and markers then came to me and announced she was done. She opened her paper and sang in Spanish, to the tune of Jingle Bells, "Navidad, navidad, dulce navidad. Es el dia quesadilla dia, dia, dia". The actual words are "navidad, navidad hoy es navidad. Es el dia alegria y felicidad". But her version works too. Okay so maybe not the quesadilla part! In case your wondering she sang, "christmas, christmas, sweet christmas. The day of quesdadilla, day day day" Love her!
Say the darndest things...
Maggie and I went to the park yesterday. She was playing in the sand with a kid about 2 1/2 years old. She was just jabbering away in spanish about nothing really. "I go to the turtle school, Martin is my friend..." Then she stops, looks him in the eye and says, "Mire, en Ingles hiiiii" (which essentially means in English we say "hi"). What a nut! The boy was completely uninterested and didn't respond whatsoever.
Today after school she told me she was going to write a song. She sat for a long while with paper and markers then came to me and announced she was done. She opened her paper and sang in Spanish, to the tune of Jingle Bells, "Navidad, navidad, dulce navidad. Es el dia quesadilla dia, dia, dia". The actual words are "navidad, navidad hoy es navidad. Es el dia alegria y felicidad". But her version works too. Okay so maybe not the quesadilla part! In case your wondering she sang, "christmas, christmas, sweet christmas. The day of quesdadilla, day day day" Love her!
It's Time for an Update Michelle
December 1, 2009
Ha ha ha. Got that comment from Michelle McCoy. It has been a while. I'm hung up on the picture thing. I have soooo many I want to post but I'm too rushed all the time, and a bit too lazy, to upload them. Guess the more I wait the more pictures hanging over my head. I have to finish some continuing ed for my SLP license by the end of Dec. I think after that I'll have more time. In the meantime I'll write some factoids about life here in Colombia.
First, Mike asked me tonight how I'd feel about going to Mexico City after this. He had a completely shocked look on his face, and also took a deep breath, when I gave a resounding "Hell yes!" He was SO sure I'd say no. But the way I look at it is Max would be 10 and Maggie 9 when we finished the Mexico job. That would mean more time in a Spanish speaking country than English. Can you imagine how well they would speak Spanish! I mean really, it would be a true second language for them. I'm not sure I could think of a much better gift. Also we'd still be in the land of cheap labor and therefore I could continue my maid service until the kids were of working age ;o) And let's not forget that I would learn Spanish much better, I hope. We could continue to travel and see more of S.A. Mike would NOT be in another attache position so we wouldn't have entertaining requirements - hallelujah! There are some safety concerns as Mexico is having a few um, issues, lately. But let's not forget that the US in still in a recession so being out of the country might not be a bad economic decision. What do you all think?
Moving on... Christmas is upon us! Funny thing is here, where there is no Thanksgiving to stop the Christmas madness, Feliz Navidad has been thrown around since Nov. 1 The Colombians did show some restraint in not lighting all the christmas lights on the streets and in the park until Nov. 28th. And christmas here rocks because it's summer now and the weather is amazing! The raining season has ended and the sun is shining bright. Really lifts a persons spirits!
Speaking of lifted spirits... I have been working with a personal trainer. I hired him 4x a week for an hour and a half each session for a grand total of $225 for 12 sessions. I know it's crazy cheap! And let me tell you William knows his stuff! He is kicking my butt all over town and I LOVE IT. I was a little apprehensive, okay ALOT apprehensive, about working out by myself or with a trainer since I blew all the discs in my neck. I'm telling you people there is NO PAIN EQUAL TO THAT! Not even natural childbirth. I quizzed poor William quite a bit before I let him work with me but I tell you that man knows his stuff. Not only muscles but nutrition too. I feel FANTASTIC! Okay I'm a bit sore but mentally I feel so much better. Even Max asked the other day why I was so happy. Sad... I hope I haven't been bringing him down too much or for too long. So sensitive that one.
Okay I think that's enough of a book for one night. Let's see if I can write again before another month goes by...
Ha ha ha. Got that comment from Michelle McCoy. It has been a while. I'm hung up on the picture thing. I have soooo many I want to post but I'm too rushed all the time, and a bit too lazy, to upload them. Guess the more I wait the more pictures hanging over my head. I have to finish some continuing ed for my SLP license by the end of Dec. I think after that I'll have more time. In the meantime I'll write some factoids about life here in Colombia.
First, Mike asked me tonight how I'd feel about going to Mexico City after this. He had a completely shocked look on his face, and also took a deep breath, when I gave a resounding "Hell yes!" He was SO sure I'd say no. But the way I look at it is Max would be 10 and Maggie 9 when we finished the Mexico job. That would mean more time in a Spanish speaking country than English. Can you imagine how well they would speak Spanish! I mean really, it would be a true second language for them. I'm not sure I could think of a much better gift. Also we'd still be in the land of cheap labor and therefore I could continue my maid service until the kids were of working age ;o) And let's not forget that I would learn Spanish much better, I hope. We could continue to travel and see more of S.A. Mike would NOT be in another attache position so we wouldn't have entertaining requirements - hallelujah! There are some safety concerns as Mexico is having a few um, issues, lately. But let's not forget that the US in still in a recession so being out of the country might not be a bad economic decision. What do you all think?
Moving on... Christmas is upon us! Funny thing is here, where there is no Thanksgiving to stop the Christmas madness, Feliz Navidad has been thrown around since Nov. 1 The Colombians did show some restraint in not lighting all the christmas lights on the streets and in the park until Nov. 28th. And christmas here rocks because it's summer now and the weather is amazing! The raining season has ended and the sun is shining bright. Really lifts a persons spirits!
Speaking of lifted spirits... I have been working with a personal trainer. I hired him 4x a week for an hour and a half each session for a grand total of $225 for 12 sessions. I know it's crazy cheap! And let me tell you William knows his stuff! He is kicking my butt all over town and I LOVE IT. I was a little apprehensive, okay ALOT apprehensive, about working out by myself or with a trainer since I blew all the discs in my neck. I'm telling you people there is NO PAIN EQUAL TO THAT! Not even natural childbirth. I quizzed poor William quite a bit before I let him work with me but I tell you that man knows his stuff. Not only muscles but nutrition too. I feel FANTASTIC! Okay I'm a bit sore but mentally I feel so much better. Even Max asked the other day why I was so happy. Sad... I hope I haven't been bringing him down too much or for too long. So sensitive that one.
Okay I think that's enough of a book for one night. Let's see if I can write again before another month goes by...
Rizos
October 08, 2009
WOW October... we've been in Colombia for 1 year and 3 months now. Time flies! So the reason I haven't been posting lately is the desk top computer died. I FINALLY found a guy to fix it and he said there was something crazy like a million viruses on the thing. And NO I am not exaggerating but there may have been a communication failure:-) So my idea of an external hard drive for christmas may have been a bit tardy. Mike is on it now but WOW does it cost ALOT for someone to back-up files before wiping the computer clean and reloading all the programs!
Anywho, you may be wondering about the title of this post. It means curly, as in hair. Yesterday I took Max for a haircut and ever since then Maggie has been asking me to curl her hair. Um yeah, have you SEEN that poker straight hair. I mean not even a hint of a wave ever. I was not feeling so confident in this project but after her bath I put in some of those soft curlers you can sleep in. OH MY GOSH... when we took the curlers out this morning she looked like Shirley Temple - so cute! Unfortunately she LOVED them and wanted me to put them in again tonight. I forsee a lot of curlers in my future!
The kids have a week off. Fall break. Odd timing if you ask me, school barely started but it is what it is. That's my new phrase in life btw, really it helps with the annoying stuff. Anyway the timing really sucks because Mike had to escorts some Colombians to the US this week and won't be back for yet another week. So a whole week off and he's gone. We've done alright playing with some of the American kids but I finally got over myself and called some of their school friends. And let me tell you there is nothing worse than a foreign language over the phone! But we had a playdate today with Arturo and his mom, Angelica. She is SUPER nice and very patient with me. We went to the park and then dinner for the kids at McD's. I know Liz but really ALL kids like the golden arches. Back to my point... I spent HOURS immersed in Spanish and actually had a good time. Tomorrow it's Martin's house but I'm just dropping them off so no work for me :o)
As a side note McD's is much better for adults here than in the US. They have an actual cafe attached with great coffees and desserts. Angelica and I had cappuccinos with cinnamon and danish - YUM!
WOW October... we've been in Colombia for 1 year and 3 months now. Time flies! So the reason I haven't been posting lately is the desk top computer died. I FINALLY found a guy to fix it and he said there was something crazy like a million viruses on the thing. And NO I am not exaggerating but there may have been a communication failure:-) So my idea of an external hard drive for christmas may have been a bit tardy. Mike is on it now but WOW does it cost ALOT for someone to back-up files before wiping the computer clean and reloading all the programs!
Anywho, you may be wondering about the title of this post. It means curly, as in hair. Yesterday I took Max for a haircut and ever since then Maggie has been asking me to curl her hair. Um yeah, have you SEEN that poker straight hair. I mean not even a hint of a wave ever. I was not feeling so confident in this project but after her bath I put in some of those soft curlers you can sleep in. OH MY GOSH... when we took the curlers out this morning she looked like Shirley Temple - so cute! Unfortunately she LOVED them and wanted me to put them in again tonight. I forsee a lot of curlers in my future!
The kids have a week off. Fall break. Odd timing if you ask me, school barely started but it is what it is. That's my new phrase in life btw, really it helps with the annoying stuff. Anyway the timing really sucks because Mike had to escorts some Colombians to the US this week and won't be back for yet another week. So a whole week off and he's gone. We've done alright playing with some of the American kids but I finally got over myself and called some of their school friends. And let me tell you there is nothing worse than a foreign language over the phone! But we had a playdate today with Arturo and his mom, Angelica. She is SUPER nice and very patient with me. We went to the park and then dinner for the kids at McD's. I know Liz but really ALL kids like the golden arches. Back to my point... I spent HOURS immersed in Spanish and actually had a good time. Tomorrow it's Martin's house but I'm just dropping them off so no work for me :o)
As a side note McD's is much better for adults here than in the US. They have an actual cafe attached with great coffees and desserts. Angelica and I had cappuccinos with cinnamon and danish - YUM!
Right place, EXACTLY right time...
September 5, 2009
for a change :o) I'm not so good with timing for the most part. Friday I went to the Embassy for an interview. Side note, can you believe I had to interview with the med unit just to be put on a referral list. Whatever! Anyway, I got to the embassy a bit earlier so I went to chat with my friend Marge, the CLO (community liason officer). Anywho, while I was there Steve the RSO (regional security officer) came in and they started chatting about Disney on Ice and free tickets. I, of course, jumped right in with "Who? What? When? Where?" Turns out the embassy was waiting on 150 free tickets for this weekends show. To which I replied, "me, me, me". A mother knows no shame. Marge said they were first come, first serve but they weren't sure if they were gonna come or not. She gave me info on where to buy 'em but told me to hold off buying and call her around 4:00 to see if they came in or not. So I went to my interview and then to fetch my hubby for some lunch. Mike and I run into Steve again. Which is odd because this is the 2nd largest embassy in the WORLD, not a small place. He said the tickets were definitely coming in and that he would reserve 4 for us. Good thing too because a notice went out via e-mail and 15 minutes later all the tickets were gone! My kids are sooooo excited!
Gotta run for yet ANOTHER dinner. Ah the life of a diplomat is all work, work, work :o)
for a change :o) I'm not so good with timing for the most part. Friday I went to the Embassy for an interview. Side note, can you believe I had to interview with the med unit just to be put on a referral list. Whatever! Anyway, I got to the embassy a bit earlier so I went to chat with my friend Marge, the CLO (community liason officer). Anywho, while I was there Steve the RSO (regional security officer) came in and they started chatting about Disney on Ice and free tickets. I, of course, jumped right in with "Who? What? When? Where?" Turns out the embassy was waiting on 150 free tickets for this weekends show. To which I replied, "me, me, me". A mother knows no shame. Marge said they were first come, first serve but they weren't sure if they were gonna come or not. She gave me info on where to buy 'em but told me to hold off buying and call her around 4:00 to see if they came in or not. So I went to my interview and then to fetch my hubby for some lunch. Mike and I run into Steve again. Which is odd because this is the 2nd largest embassy in the WORLD, not a small place. He said the tickets were definitely coming in and that he would reserve 4 for us. Good thing too because a notice went out via e-mail and 15 minutes later all the tickets were gone! My kids are sooooo excited!
Gotta run for yet ANOTHER dinner. Ah the life of a diplomat is all work, work, work :o)
Happy 5th Bug!
August 26, 2009
Okay so the party for Max actually occured on August 16th but better late than never! We went to a place called Jeno's Pizza. They have a great play area. There are bikes, HUGE slide, tunnels to crawl through, a giant overhead bridge, mini disco... I could go on. You'll see some of it in the pics but I took 87 and well, that's a bit much to post! Here's a few of my fav's...
Inside - so fun!
The giant bridge overhead leading to a castle turret.
Tunnels and things to climb.
Ball pit. I don't think they liked this too much :o)
GIANT SLIDE!!!!
Okay so the party for Max actually occured on August 16th but better late than never! We went to a place called Jeno's Pizza. They have a great play area. There are bikes, HUGE slide, tunnels to crawl through, a giant overhead bridge, mini disco... I could go on. You'll see some of it in the pics but I took 87 and well, that's a bit much to post! Here's a few of my fav's...
The room decorated with transformer colors and table setting. Such a boy!
The birthday cupcakes! Don't you just LOVE the colors. And talk about options... you could do colors for any event... the 4th red, white and blue, Halloween - orange and black. You get the idea.
Inside - so fun!
The giant bridge overhead leading to a castle turret.
Tunnels and things to climb.
Ball pit. I don't think they liked this too much :o)
GIANT SLIDE!!!!
Ava and Liam were fans. I even caught the Mom's and Dad's taking a ride.
The magic show about to begin... come on kids!
The magician's little helper -
Look carefully at the bag...
Hey, where'd that bird come from?
I LOVE Raquel's face in this photo!
The magic show about to begin... come on kids!
The magician's little helper -
THE BIRTHDAY BOY!
Look carefully at the bag...
Hey, where'd that bird come from?
I LOVE Raquel's face in this photo!
First he poured water in her ear, when nothing came out he tapped her head as she tipped it over the newspaper and then VOILA water came pouring out into the cup. You had to see it.
Even the parents enjoyed the show!
Of course he pulled a rabbit out of his hat before he left.
Ice cream anyone?
Even the parents enjoyed the show!
Of course he pulled a rabbit out of his hat before he left.
Ice cream anyone?
That came, of course, BEFORE the healthy pizza lunch.
Time to sing to the birthday boy.
Time to sing to the birthday boy.
I was so disappointed in the photo's here. There was sooooo much light from the window behind it washed out all my photos.
Blowing out the candles.
VIDEO!
Blowing out the candles.
VIDEO!
If you have a few minutes watch this great video. It's in spanish but the magic is so fun.
First let me catch you up to speed. The magician pulled an egg out of Max's bum. Disturbing I know. Then he cracked the egg into the bowl he is holding. He took a shirt from Arturo and lined his magic hat with it and put the raw egg inside. I wish you could make the video bigger because the horror on Max's face at the end is priceless!
BTW - I understood the Spanish so much better when I watched the video than the first time around. There is hope for me!
Happy Birthday Bug!
August 4, 2009
Holy cow TWO already? 
I love you baby bug!
AH! My baby is 5, FIVE!!!! How did that happen?
I remember making this call to say, "he's a coming NOW"!
Check out those CHEEKS!!! So kissable :o)
Look at me, I'm ONE!
Holy cow TWO already?
Being THREE sure is great!
FOUR years old and just finishing my first year of preschool.
FIVE, um what? FIVE really... where did the time go?
I love you baby bug!Happy and Sad
July 27, 2009
We have had one heck of a summer! We've been in Virginia, D.C., South Carolina, Louisiana (Baton Rouge for 2 days and New Orleans for 4 days), Philadelphia, and New York. Whew. For those considering traveling around for 6 weeks... DON'T. For all the fun it's also been really tiring. Not to mention I've packed and unpacked so many times and visited so many homes that I have bought things like shampoo, toothpaste and goggles 3 thousand times over because I keep leaving them in other people's homes!
I love the United States. Really, live outside our beautiful country and you'll see what I mean. Colombia is nice - don't misunderstand. The country is beautiful, the people so warm and friendly, there is lot's to do and see but... THEY SPEAK SPANISH! I know that I already knew that, and of course you did too, but really after a while it's just annoying. Maybe after 3 years that won't be an issue. Also they don't have the conveniences there that make my life easier. This may sound trivial but think about no prepared/canned products. Want to make tomato sauce... go buy some tomatoes and start from scratch because you're not getting them in a can! Hummus anyone... um yeah go buy some dried beans and cook them for 3 years because you are at 9000 feet. Maybe it will be ready next week. And anyone who thinks DC traffic is bad NEEDS to come to Colombia for some perspective.
Sold you on the place didn't I :o) Just a little drama people. We have some great friends there. And not just American or Colombian. We have met people from all over: England, Australia, Israel, Honduras, Spain, Singapore - I could go on. And the kids are learning to speak Spanish, so cute. The country is REALLY kid oriented too. Lot's for them to do. And it's beautiful. Granted there are some really poor people living in some less than desirable conditions but the country itself is amazing. I want to visit the amazon and coffee regions. I've also heard that San Andres is amazing, located on the Caribbean. The fruits and veggies are SO fresh and you can buy some yummy tropical fruits that you can't buy here. Well, I don't know, maybe in a specialty market for a thousand dollars a pound but you get the point.
Therefore I am happy and sad. In the end, I need to get back to my own house with my own space and my own stuff. The kids need some structure back too. We've stayed so long they are actually asking to go back. Yeah!
We have had one heck of a summer! We've been in Virginia, D.C., South Carolina, Louisiana (Baton Rouge for 2 days and New Orleans for 4 days), Philadelphia, and New York. Whew. For those considering traveling around for 6 weeks... DON'T. For all the fun it's also been really tiring. Not to mention I've packed and unpacked so many times and visited so many homes that I have bought things like shampoo, toothpaste and goggles 3 thousand times over because I keep leaving them in other people's homes!
I love the United States. Really, live outside our beautiful country and you'll see what I mean. Colombia is nice - don't misunderstand. The country is beautiful, the people so warm and friendly, there is lot's to do and see but... THEY SPEAK SPANISH! I know that I already knew that, and of course you did too, but really after a while it's just annoying. Maybe after 3 years that won't be an issue. Also they don't have the conveniences there that make my life easier. This may sound trivial but think about no prepared/canned products. Want to make tomato sauce... go buy some tomatoes and start from scratch because you're not getting them in a can! Hummus anyone... um yeah go buy some dried beans and cook them for 3 years because you are at 9000 feet. Maybe it will be ready next week. And anyone who thinks DC traffic is bad NEEDS to come to Colombia for some perspective.
Sold you on the place didn't I :o) Just a little drama people. We have some great friends there. And not just American or Colombian. We have met people from all over: England, Australia, Israel, Honduras, Spain, Singapore - I could go on. And the kids are learning to speak Spanish, so cute. The country is REALLY kid oriented too. Lot's for them to do. And it's beautiful. Granted there are some really poor people living in some less than desirable conditions but the country itself is amazing. I want to visit the amazon and coffee regions. I've also heard that San Andres is amazing, located on the Caribbean. The fruits and veggies are SO fresh and you can buy some yummy tropical fruits that you can't buy here. Well, I don't know, maybe in a specialty market for a thousand dollars a pound but you get the point.
Therefore I am happy and sad. In the end, I need to get back to my own house with my own space and my own stuff. The kids need some structure back too. We've stayed so long they are actually asking to go back. Yeah!
Boom shack a lacka
July 18, 2009
Open the door, get on the floor, everybody do the dinosaur...
Yup, we went to see Ice Age 3 Dawn of the Dinosaurs. Movie was cute. Not as good as the first two but Max laughed ALOT and that's what matters. Oh and Maggie actually watched for 30 minutes before asking if it was over yet. I really don't know why I waste the money on her. Speaking of money... movies here, in the DC area, are $8.50 for a stinking child matinee ticket! Then they had the nerve to tack on an extra $3 for 3-D!!!! That's each ticket people. It cost me $34 for the 3 of us to see a matinee. RIDICULOUS. All I can say is I'm happy we're in Colombia for a few more years because matinees there cost about $7 total. And don't even get me started on the charge for my 25 cents worth of popcorn.
Open the door, get on the floor, everybody do the dinosaur...
Yup, we went to see Ice Age 3 Dawn of the Dinosaurs. Movie was cute. Not as good as the first two but Max laughed ALOT and that's what matters. Oh and Maggie actually watched for 30 minutes before asking if it was over yet. I really don't know why I waste the money on her. Speaking of money... movies here, in the DC area, are $8.50 for a stinking child matinee ticket! Then they had the nerve to tack on an extra $3 for 3-D!!!! That's each ticket people. It cost me $34 for the 3 of us to see a matinee. RIDICULOUS. All I can say is I'm happy we're in Colombia for a few more years because matinees there cost about $7 total. And don't even get me started on the charge for my 25 cents worth of popcorn.
Stupidity Abounds!
July 16, 2009
WARNING: Michelle is about to show her, ummm, shall we say impatient and judgemental side.
My drivers license expired on my birthday in May. In April I wrote the Va DMV about renewing by mail and/or to see if they made any sort of exceptions for diplomats. Well, they do. This is a small excerpt from the e-mail they sent me.
Effective July 1, 2006, only one extension can be granted up to three years from the date of license expiration. Drivers wishing to have their license extended will be given an extension card to carry in conjunction with their expired license that indicates their license is valid for an additional three years or within ninety days of their return to the Commonwealth.
I was given a list of things I needed to send to the DMV in order to obtain the extension card. I went to the DMV today because I could not find one of their forms on the website and thought a personal visit was the way to go, right... WRONG!
I got there early, 10 min. before they opened, so only had about a 15 minute wait. The woman at the information counter said my paperwork was all in order and she gave me a number. The guy at the desk however, was not so well informed. He insisted that I needed to renew my drivers license but then wouldn't let me renew because I didn't bring proof of residence. Um, HELLO, I DON'T LIVE HERE! Now not to be completely rude but this guy was not American. Perhaps the word "extension" was new vocabulary for him. He was so fixated on the fact that my license expired he couldn't see the forest for the trees. Whatever, give me a new license. I just wanted to get out of there! Finally he accepts my passport and my parents address, charges me $35 and takes my photo. THEN, the lady working next to him informs him that she looked it up and I, of course, am right and legally I do not qualify for a new drivers license because I am NOT a resident - duh. But now no one knows how to remove the new info from the computers and refund my money. So, after a long painful discourse they ended up just letting me have a new license. Nice. Now I know how illegals get through the cracks.
WARNING: Michelle is about to show her, ummm, shall we say impatient and judgemental side.
My drivers license expired on my birthday in May. In April I wrote the Va DMV about renewing by mail and/or to see if they made any sort of exceptions for diplomats. Well, they do. This is a small excerpt from the e-mail they sent me.
Effective July 1, 2006, only one extension can be granted up to three years from the date of license expiration. Drivers wishing to have their license extended will be given an extension card to carry in conjunction with their expired license that indicates their license is valid for an additional three years or within ninety days of their return to the Commonwealth.
I was given a list of things I needed to send to the DMV in order to obtain the extension card. I went to the DMV today because I could not find one of their forms on the website and thought a personal visit was the way to go, right... WRONG!
I got there early, 10 min. before they opened, so only had about a 15 minute wait. The woman at the information counter said my paperwork was all in order and she gave me a number. The guy at the desk however, was not so well informed. He insisted that I needed to renew my drivers license but then wouldn't let me renew because I didn't bring proof of residence. Um, HELLO, I DON'T LIVE HERE! Now not to be completely rude but this guy was not American. Perhaps the word "extension" was new vocabulary for him. He was so fixated on the fact that my license expired he couldn't see the forest for the trees. Whatever, give me a new license. I just wanted to get out of there! Finally he accepts my passport and my parents address, charges me $35 and takes my photo. THEN, the lady working next to him informs him that she looked it up and I, of course, am right and legally I do not qualify for a new drivers license because I am NOT a resident - duh. But now no one knows how to remove the new info from the computers and refund my money. So, after a long painful discourse they ended up just letting me have a new license. Nice. Now I know how illegals get through the cracks.
Time for happier posts!
July 13, 2009
GRRR, blogger is NOT cooperating!!! On the upside, we have been on a whirlwind tour of the US since June 18 and we are not done yet! Since blogger is being a P.I.T.A. these photos are not in chronological order and there are just a few of each adventure.
Enjoying ice cream in a sports bar while Mama, Papa and Tia Lia...
Sat in lazy boys eating dinner and watching t.v. Gotta love NOLA!!
The zoo was AWESOME! I really love the zoo in New Orleans. Even though it was Africa hot the zoo has a ton of shade, misters and even waterfalls to play in. I am only posting this one photo because blogger is not my friend tonight but trust me this zoo is a must see if you visit.
Sunset family photo on Fripp Island, SC.
Feeding the deer.
Hunting 'gators! They roam free on Fripp. Apparently these guys aren't aggressive like crocs are but even still, we kept our distance!
The 4th was super fun. There was a golf cart parade and games before the fireworks. Max even won a cute 'gator cake in the cake walk. While waiting for dinner my 2 munchkins waved flags and yelled, "happy 4th of July" to all who passed by.
This trip has been a "blurr" but oh so fun. And the adventures have just begun!
GRRR, blogger is NOT cooperating!!! On the upside, we have been on a whirlwind tour of the US since June 18 and we are not done yet! Since blogger is being a P.I.T.A. these photos are not in chronological order and there are just a few of each adventure.
One of our stops was New Orleans. Here is Tia Lia (aka Aunt Malia), cousin Kayleigh, Aunt Michele, me and the munchkins in the French Quarter.
Maggie thoroughly enjoying her beignet!
Petting sting rays and sharks at the aquarium. (Please forgive the smudge on some photos... someone touched the lens on my camera... I'm not naming names...)
Enjoying ice cream in a sports bar while Mama, Papa and Tia Lia...Sat in lazy boys eating dinner and watching t.v. Gotta love NOLA!!They even put Scooby Doo on one of the TVs for the kids...
SCORE!
And who can visit a bar without dancing...
On the tables :o)
The zoo was AWESOME! I really love the zoo in New Orleans. Even though it was Africa hot the zoo has a ton of shade, misters and even waterfalls to play in. I am only posting this one photo because blogger is not my friend tonight but trust me this zoo is a must see if you visit.
Sunset family photo on Fripp Island, SC.Feeding the deer.
Hunting 'gators! They roam free on Fripp. Apparently these guys aren't aggressive like crocs are but even still, we kept our distance!CRABS! We went on a great nature cruise and found all kinds of sea creatures and sea shells.
The 4th was super fun. There was a golf cart parade and games before the fireworks. Max even won a cute 'gator cake in the cake walk. While waiting for dinner my 2 munchkins waved flags and yelled, "happy 4th of July" to all who passed by.
This trip has been a "blurr" but oh so fun. And the adventures have just begun!And this is why we wait...
June 17, 2009
I just received an e-mail from T. saying she has changed her mind. There were some issues to be resolved and maybe because of my response she changed her mind or maybe, as time has gone by, she felt she could no longer go through with it. I totally understand having given birth to a baby and raising 2. So best wishes to T. and please know that I am not upset with you. This is an emotional process for all involved.
I just received an e-mail from T. saying she has changed her mind. There were some issues to be resolved and maybe because of my response she changed her mind or maybe, as time has gone by, she felt she could no longer go through with it. I totally understand having given birth to a baby and raising 2. So best wishes to T. and please know that I am not upset with you. This is an emotional process for all involved.
Answered Prayers
June 16, 2009
They say a picture is worth a thousand words. I think these three photos are the most beautiful in all the world and no amount of words can conveye just how much joy they bring me.
Of course nothing is definite until I hold him in my arms and the judge says "I dub thee insert really great first name here Flynn". Yup, we are adopting again. This little guy literally came down from heaven at a really low point for me (we had our 7th miscarriage but shhh don't tell my mom it was THAT many). He is due the same day as my last pregnancy was expected and I was expecting a boy so I think God may have had a hand in this one! So get your thinking caps on because we need a name!!!!
They say a picture is worth a thousand words. I think these three photos are the most beautiful in all the world and no amount of words can conveye just how much joy they bring me.
Of course nothing is definite until I hold him in my arms and the judge says "I dub thee insert really great first name here Flynn". Yup, we are adopting again. This little guy literally came down from heaven at a really low point for me (we had our 7th miscarriage but shhh don't tell my mom it was THAT many). He is due the same day as my last pregnancy was expected and I was expecting a boy so I think God may have had a hand in this one! So get your thinking caps on because we need a name!!!!
Hope she enjoyed that party
June 12, 2009
Because it's the last one she'll ever have! I came home to find that Maggie had written, IN PERMANENT BLACK MARKER, all over the MARBLE fireplace!!!!! Seriously, she may not live much longer. Luckily her father is more relaxed than her mother and simply said, "kids do things".
So, anyone have any ideas on how to get the marks out short of replacing the marble? GRRRR
Because it's the last one she'll ever have! I came home to find that Maggie had written, IN PERMANENT BLACK MARKER, all over the MARBLE fireplace!!!!! Seriously, she may not live much longer. Luckily her father is more relaxed than her mother and simply said, "kids do things".
So, anyone have any ideas on how to get the marks out short of replacing the marble? GRRRR
The Circus Is in Town!
June 9, 2009
The Flynn Family Circus... featuring the newly 4 year old Maggie Flynn and her sidekick, Muscle Man Max!
We wanted to hang tha so the kids could put their faces in the holes and get some fun photos but they were all too short so we filled it in with Max and Maggie. Made a great door banner though.
They came out pretty well but I ran out of time and had to simplify a bit. No time to make the monkeys or elephants but we did have dogs, lions and clowns!
No way I was making 60 plus cupcakes so I made the carousel. I knew we'd have about 30 kids but the parents, well, that could be anywhere from 30 to 60 so a cake was far easier.
I love oriental trading. I put these together for like $2 a piece with clown noses, ice cream poppers, stickers, a circus frame craft and some tattoo's. So fun!
GAMES!!!
As was the duck hunt game.
The duck game. Hmmm, can YOU find one with a star?
The game ideas were great but unfortunately me and 30 spanish speaking kids were not a good mix. I failed to communicate effectively and the masses took over. They had fun playing in a most unorganized fashion and ended up just picking through the prize bins without "winning" anything. Ah well, they had fun and that's the point right? And we never did get to the pin the nose on the clown. So sad, it was the cutest.
Maggie had no issues with the idea!
Max trying to kill the clown. There really is something wrong with this game! But look at Maggie's face in the background. Not sure what that exceptionally sad look is all about!
The MAD GRAB! 
One funny story...
The Flynn Family Circus... featuring the newly 4 year old Maggie Flynn and her sidekick, Muscle Man Max!
We wanted to hang tha so the kids could put their faces in the holes and get some fun photos but they were all too short so we filled it in with Max and Maggie. Made a great door banner though.The tower of cupcakes!
They came out pretty well but I ran out of time and had to simplify a bit. No time to make the monkeys or elephants but we did have dogs, lions and clowns!Carousel cake
No way I was making 60 plus cupcakes so I made the carousel. I knew we'd have about 30 kids but the parents, well, that could be anywhere from 30 to 60 so a cake was far easier.Treat boxes.
I love oriental trading. I put these together for like $2 a piece with clown noses, ice cream poppers, stickers, a circus frame craft and some tattoo's. So fun!This is Maggie's friend Valeria. I included the picture because she is just too darn cute. And she is playing with one of the game prizes... mini playdoh.
GAMES!!!Knocking over the cans was a big hit.
As was the duck hunt game.
The duck game. Hmmm, can YOU find one with a star?
The game ideas were great but unfortunately me and 30 spanish speaking kids were not a good mix. I failed to communicate effectively and the masses took over. They had fun playing in a most unorganized fashion and ended up just picking through the prize bins without "winning" anything. Ah well, they had fun and that's the point right? And we never did get to the pin the nose on the clown. So sad, it was the cutest. Look how cute that pinata was! I hated to bust him up...
Maggie had no issues with the idea!
Max trying to kill the clown. There really is something wrong with this game! But look at Maggie's face in the background. Not sure what that exceptionally sad look is all about!
The MAD GRAB!
Look at poor Max. He was so sad he couldn't reach ANY candy. Someone pulled on the pinata and decapited the poor guy. The unfortunate result was the whole body fell with the candy still inside.
One funny story...
The porteros and toderos (doormen and maintence guy) asked Mike how he knew one of our guests. Mike, a bit confused said, his kid goes to my kids school. Mike then comes to me and says, "Do you know who that is?" pointing out one of the Dad's. I reply, "Julio, Mikaela's Dad" He is a really nice guy - funny, personable and not bad looking. I have talked with him at some of the other birthday parties because he is approachable. Anyway, turns out he is THE Julio Cesar Herarra. I know can you believe it? Okay, me either. I was still in the, "yeah so" state of mind. Julio is a HUGE Colombian actor. He plays Freddy in the Colombian version of Ugly Betty and also has a production company. I believe the portero also mentioned some other shows but you know, it means nothing to me. Hmmm, perhaps I should have gotten a good photo and an autograph :o)
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