Daughter Liz and husband Kurt's pre Christmas visit was so short I almost forgot to thank them also for their wonderful gifts (the stained glass wreath is a year round decoration as will be the Xmas lights on the house if D.A.E. doesn't get around to taking them down.) and the house cleaning. We are REALLY looking forward to your 18 months of Grad school here and getting to know the newest Weaver. Thank you , Thankyou, Thankyou
Dad and I are the luckiest people in the world to have such great kids and their families. Thankyou for being the giving people that you all are.
Friday, December 28, 2007
Just an Observation
The times in my life when I've been the happiest are the times when I've put the wants and needs of others to the forefront. No wonder I LOVE Christmas. When I think of " I , I , I" ( as in I am tired, I don't feel good I WANT) Nothing and No one (especially husband ) is good enough.
Having said that... Daughter and husband Gabe should be the happiest holiday travelers ever,
Mari and Gabe, after a sleepless night in Raleigh N.C. traveled about 3000 miles with a very active toddler to geve two sets of Grandparents and other assorted relatives a VERY wonderful Christmas.
The Travel weary Higerd Trio got off of the airplane to two days of rain and cold. The 1st real rain Cali. has had in months, As well as cases of a particularly bad stomach flu. Mari's comment was " I had the flu three times with Caroline! This is only the 1st with Anabelle" Gabe rallied enough to go to a very exciting (even tho Navy lost) Football game in San Diego with Dennis. And Mari and I managed several trips to the Mall without her throwing up on any other shoppers.
For Christmas the family drove 350 miles (with the same "I DON'T like to sit still toddler) to Mammoth and Gabes parents house. Up there it wasn't the Dynamic Trio who were sick but their hosts. Add that to the altitude change and the colds that the three were suffering and they still managed to focus the fun stuff that they did.
There is some truth to the song "There is no place like home for the holidays". I'm sure staying in N.C. would have been a lot less stressful and exhausting. Thank you Mari, Gabe and C.C. for putting all of us ahead of yourselves and making this a wonderful Christmas for us. You are the greatest and we love you for putting visiting Calif. for the holidays before your holiday ease.
I don't want to forget to thank the rest of our family for contributing to a great Christmas too. Bob, Doug and Family for gifts and the wonderful Front yard renovation and all of the help and sharing and cooperation that made this holiday a special one.
I wish I could get a picture of Mari, Gabe and C,C, kissing the ground at Raleigh Airport upon their return. It takes a great trip to make you appreciate home as well.
Having said that... Daughter and husband Gabe should be the happiest holiday travelers ever,
Mari and Gabe, after a sleepless night in Raleigh N.C. traveled about 3000 miles with a very active toddler to geve two sets of Grandparents and other assorted relatives a VERY wonderful Christmas.
The Travel weary Higerd Trio got off of the airplane to two days of rain and cold. The 1st real rain Cali. has had in months, As well as cases of a particularly bad stomach flu. Mari's comment was " I had the flu three times with Caroline! This is only the 1st with Anabelle" Gabe rallied enough to go to a very exciting (even tho Navy lost) Football game in San Diego with Dennis. And Mari and I managed several trips to the Mall without her throwing up on any other shoppers.
For Christmas the family drove 350 miles (with the same "I DON'T like to sit still toddler) to Mammoth and Gabes parents house. Up there it wasn't the Dynamic Trio who were sick but their hosts. Add that to the altitude change and the colds that the three were suffering and they still managed to focus the fun stuff that they did.
There is some truth to the song "There is no place like home for the holidays". I'm sure staying in N.C. would have been a lot less stressful and exhausting. Thank you Mari, Gabe and C.C. for putting all of us ahead of yourselves and making this a wonderful Christmas for us. You are the greatest and we love you for putting visiting Calif. for the holidays before your holiday ease.
I don't want to forget to thank the rest of our family for contributing to a great Christmas too. Bob, Doug and Family for gifts and the wonderful Front yard renovation and all of the help and sharing and cooperation that made this holiday a special one.
I wish I could get a picture of Mari, Gabe and C,C, kissing the ground at Raleigh Airport upon their return. It takes a great trip to make you appreciate home as well.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Lots of good - Not enough time
I only have a few minutes while the D,C, (Direct current is as accurate as Day care) kids are asleep. Sooo here goes.
After a really WONDERFUL BUSY trip East Dennis and I are trying to settle into a routine. A Christmas Parade at his work, and a teaching assignment at the motorcycle safety school kind of interrupted the easy routine that we each envisioned.
The LOTS OF GOOD in the title of this blog refers to our sons and grand son and daughter-in-law Shelli's Early christmas present to Dennis and me. My One Biggest and longest wished for dream is and has always been to have a finished house - front yard in particular. While we were East. The Capo Crew went to work and gave me my dream. It is almost complete and I LOVE IT!!!!! I didn't bring along "Lucy" the camera with me when we made our quick trip south for DAE's teaching assignment but you could probably hear me on the East Coast yelling "OH ! LOOK ! OH MY GOSH ! ETC. It is really spectacular. It even includes a fountain by the front door. I'll be sure to bring her this coming weekend when we head South again to visit with Liz and Kurt.
Other Good was DAE putting up Xmas lights on not only Gabe and Mari's N.C. house but also our Montrose house. He grumbled a bit but they look awesome and and the DC kids love them. Only one house (Capo) to go decorating wise.
This time of year is soooo busy it takes a real effort to slow down and appreciate the wonder and the people that make this time of year special. Thankyou to all of you reading this for JUST BEING YOU. YOU are the wonder and the ones that make every day special. Happy today and Tomorrow and everyday from now on. And a SPECIAL thank you to our kids, not only for the yard but for just being the wonderful people that you are.
After a really WONDERFUL BUSY trip East Dennis and I are trying to settle into a routine. A Christmas Parade at his work, and a teaching assignment at the motorcycle safety school kind of interrupted the easy routine that we each envisioned.
The LOTS OF GOOD in the title of this blog refers to our sons and grand son and daughter-in-law Shelli's Early christmas present to Dennis and me. My One Biggest and longest wished for dream is and has always been to have a finished house - front yard in particular. While we were East. The Capo Crew went to work and gave me my dream. It is almost complete and I LOVE IT!!!!! I didn't bring along "Lucy" the camera with me when we made our quick trip south for DAE's teaching assignment but you could probably hear me on the East Coast yelling "OH ! LOOK ! OH MY GOSH ! ETC. It is really spectacular. It even includes a fountain by the front door. I'll be sure to bring her this coming weekend when we head South again to visit with Liz and Kurt.
Other Good was DAE putting up Xmas lights on not only Gabe and Mari's N.C. house but also our Montrose house. He grumbled a bit but they look awesome and and the DC kids love them. Only one house (Capo) to go decorating wise.
This time of year is soooo busy it takes a real effort to slow down and appreciate the wonder and the people that make this time of year special. Thankyou to all of you reading this for JUST BEING YOU. YOU are the wonder and the ones that make every day special. Happy today and Tomorrow and everyday from now on. And a SPECIAL thank you to our kids, not only for the yard but for just being the wonderful people that you are.
Friday, November 9, 2007
Traveling Light Erdman Style.
It's 6:30 and the kids are finally gone. The floors are cleaned to the point that an intruder won't stick to them in our absence and sue .And the suitcases (all 6 of them) are lined up by the door. Lest you think the title isn't serious or that Dennis and I cant travel light ! Only an overnight case is needed to contain our clothes and personal belongings. OKAY... if you consider the birdbath that is packed into one of the biggest suitcases a personal belonging then I guess I cant say that. The birdbath is at least PACKED. When I told Mari that I was bringing one East she gasped and said " MOTHER YOU'RE NOT ! ! " She remembers walking down the the street here in Montrose with a stuffed chicken perched upon the stroller I was pushing, and the commentsm from those passing by in cars. She thought I was bringing it as a carry on. Silly girl ! The worst I have ever carried on an airplane was a metal rooster that I found after our luggage was checked. The 5 suitcases are essentials for Thanksgiving ( A stuffed annimated dancing turkey is an essential) or Xmas gifts or a gun for Gabe so that he can go out and provide the Turkey that his wife will cook. See all of you Easterners soon. Westerners..Enjoy the 17 days of peace and quiet without Dad and Me. Please remember to water the trees and front door fern.
Silence is Golden
Silence is golden or so thinks Dennis. I caught the cold bug that has been going around but instead of the sniffles I ended up with laryngittus. Tuesday when I woke Dennis up with my usuall cheery "GOOOD MORNING HONEY" all that came out was a whispered CROAK. It has been an unusually busy week for both of us. My shortest work day has been 14 hours. Dennis has had board meetings and watermain breaks keeping him on the job until well afyer 9 pm three nights this week. A 5 hour plane ride will be a joy. Dad is hoping that my speechlessness lasts at least part of our trip. Im thinking of sitting apart from him on the plane so that I'm not tempted to yap. Last time I had laryngittus this bad was when we were first married and I was teaching 1st grade It lasted a week THree more days to go. Enjoy the quiet Honey
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Memories
Shelli, earlier today called and related a "Trauma of being a parent" story. I don't always agree with any of my kids parenting methods any more than Dennis's and my parents always agreed with ours. But I do want to say that Isaac is one lucky kid to have a Mom and Dad like Bob and Shelli. Long story short ...Isaac (for reasons at the time unknown even to him) flipped out at school and almost decked the principal. (Think twice about those karate lessons as an Xmas gift - from what Shelli told me he did enough damage without them) Instead of sentencing Isaac to solitary confinement for the rest of his life, his parents went on the internet and came up with a reaction to medications that the kid was taking. as a likely cause. Dennis's doctor once ALMOST perscribed a medication that would have been potentially lethal had Dennis not done some research ahead of time. On to the TITLE...No matter how traumatic an incident with your kid or kids is, it will make for REALLY GREAT stories when they become parents themselves. I'll save some of mine for future blogs, Titles like "Dumb School - they don't tell you the rules until you break them" and "Honest Mom ! It really IS my appendix ! Could the paramedics please stop for a burger on the way to the Hospital? I'm REALLY hungry" and others
Friday, November 2, 2007
Kids Darth Vader and Cockroaches
Last night Dennis went back to the sleep clinic. Not because he snores which he does GRANDLY, but because he frequently stops snoring - gasps for breath - andf then resumes snoring. The first overnight confirmed what I have been saying, SOOOO at $2,400 (?) per night he was invited back to wear a Darth Vader type mask that is supposed to solve the problem and give him a bright eyed and bushy tailed disposition upon awakening. For what they charge it is the least that he can expect.
Since he was going to be gone anyway, I offered to watch both of Christy's kids ( my surrogate Grandkids) They were really GREAT. They slept and I was sleepless waiting for them to wake up. Again, kids are only great for someone other than parents and it is ABSOLUTELY NO reflection on the parents ! It just is the way it is. I LOVE the grandparent role. Christy on her exciting night without kids went to bed at 8 pm.
The cockroach part came in this am. Dennis came back from the sleep clinic at 5:30 am. . For what they charge they could have at least let him sleep in. Anyway, after he stumbled into bed (without the Darth Vader mask that was supposed to help him sleep,) he had no trouble catching a few extra winks before heading to work. I came across a cockroach the size of Kansas just inside our front door. It reminded me of a call from Liz a few yers ago. It was late and she had fallen asleep on the sofa only to awaken eyeball to eyeball with just such a critter. That was the year she got a BUG VAC for xmas.
When Dennis finally awoke and I told him of my encounter. (The Roach was on his back legs twithcing in the air), Dennis's comment was " Now do you believe me that it's time for you to do a good cleaning.'
IF WE EVER SPEND A WEEKEND HERE INSTEAD OF DOWN SOUTH, I STAND A CHANCE.
That being said, Jacob and I are preparing a proper funeral for the recently deceased critter, Do cockroaches make good fertilizer ?
Since he was going to be gone anyway, I offered to watch both of Christy's kids ( my surrogate Grandkids) They were really GREAT. They slept and I was sleepless waiting for them to wake up. Again, kids are only great for someone other than parents and it is ABSOLUTELY NO reflection on the parents ! It just is the way it is. I LOVE the grandparent role. Christy on her exciting night without kids went to bed at 8 pm.
The cockroach part came in this am. Dennis came back from the sleep clinic at 5:30 am. . For what they charge they could have at least let him sleep in. Anyway, after he stumbled into bed (without the Darth Vader mask that was supposed to help him sleep,) he had no trouble catching a few extra winks before heading to work. I came across a cockroach the size of Kansas just inside our front door. It reminded me of a call from Liz a few yers ago. It was late and she had fallen asleep on the sofa only to awaken eyeball to eyeball with just such a critter. That was the year she got a BUG VAC for xmas.
When Dennis finally awoke and I told him of my encounter. (The Roach was on his back legs twithcing in the air), Dennis's comment was " Now do you believe me that it's time for you to do a good cleaning.'
IF WE EVER SPEND A WEEKEND HERE INSTEAD OF DOWN SOUTH, I STAND A CHANCE.
That being said, Jacob and I are preparing a proper funeral for the recently deceased critter, Do cockroaches make good fertilizer ?
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
HAPPY HALLOWEEN
Getting Dennis to wear this "Pajama" costume got him "GET OUT OF TROUBLE FREE" till Thanksgiving. It was worth it. Thanks Mari for the loan of the slippers
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Introducing Mr. Jacob Hollywood
Earlier this month, Day Care Kid Jacob ( unusually good natured for 2 1/2) came down with a virus that went straight to his ears. After several days of fussing at day care and keeping his Mom up all night, he put his hands on his hips. Looked his Mom straight in the eye and announced "MY EARS HURT BAD!. ( Jacob is just now starting to talk and this is by far the most complicated utterance in his 2 1/2 years.) Mom rushed him to the Dr. who agreed with Jacob that his ears were in deed in need of help. Extreme guilt on both Mom's and my part.
He passed the bug on to baby brother Ryan who in spite of 2 trips to emergicare ( family Dr only works 4 days per week) in three days (where he was pronounced hale and hardy) proceeded to scream non stop for three days. The result of screaming for three days was a complete loss of voice which after three days seemed like a blessing. A trip to his regular Dr on Day 4 finally comfirmed bronchittus. Shame on you emergicare Dr.
On to the Hollywood part of all of this.
Everyone was well, happy and healthy until Jacob apparently became bored with the painting swimming, clay ball playing etc routine of daycare and normal big brother treatment at home. He started tugging at his ear. whining. crying, throwing himself onto the floor in agony and getting his mother up at night whenever baby brother was too exhausted to do the job.
Doubtful Thomas that I am, I suspected deception until a dose of tylenol restored Jacob to his usual cheery self.
After 4 nights of NO sleep, Mom, Christy, dragged herself and two kids to the Dr. for a checkup. Baby got his baby shots and Jacob got a nomination for an OSCAR. His ears are fine.
His Mom and I are Frazzled from his Oscor quality performance. It's good that we live near Hollywood. Burbank is just down the road. He is a shoe in. Watch out Jackie ! your kids have competition on the way as far as acting goes.
I sure hope Jacob remembers who watched him when he was 2 1/2 as he accepts his acting awards.
He passed the bug on to baby brother Ryan who in spite of 2 trips to emergicare ( family Dr only works 4 days per week) in three days (where he was pronounced hale and hardy) proceeded to scream non stop for three days. The result of screaming for three days was a complete loss of voice which after three days seemed like a blessing. A trip to his regular Dr on Day 4 finally comfirmed bronchittus. Shame on you emergicare Dr.
On to the Hollywood part of all of this.
Everyone was well, happy and healthy until Jacob apparently became bored with the painting swimming, clay ball playing etc routine of daycare and normal big brother treatment at home. He started tugging at his ear. whining. crying, throwing himself onto the floor in agony and getting his mother up at night whenever baby brother was too exhausted to do the job.
Doubtful Thomas that I am, I suspected deception until a dose of tylenol restored Jacob to his usual cheery self.
After 4 nights of NO sleep, Mom, Christy, dragged herself and two kids to the Dr. for a checkup. Baby got his baby shots and Jacob got a nomination for an OSCAR. His ears are fine.
His Mom and I are Frazzled from his Oscor quality performance. It's good that we live near Hollywood. Burbank is just down the road. He is a shoe in. Watch out Jackie ! your kids have competition on the way as far as acting goes.
I sure hope Jacob remembers who watched him when he was 2 1/2 as he accepts his acting awards.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Fall Grizzlies
Have you noticed that kids and people in general have been grizzley lately?
When Doug and I were in Costco this weekend, the box girl was complaining: "Did you see that kid just ahead of you? I said your'e a cute kid and he replied 'NO I'M NOT !! I DON'T LIKE YOU ! " I was just trying to be friendly!"
Today at Ralphs I said the same thing to a little boy behind me in line and got spit at. His Mom said "Sorry ! Kids will be kids and for some reason he has been really grizzley lately"
2 year old Jacob who I watch loves brushing his teeth after breakfast with Dennis and spitting into the sink. He recently tried spitting at ME. He only tried spitting at me once and had one warning that only tired kids spit. And that if he did it again he would have a date with the sleep mat. So far he hasn't tried it again. Even without spitting he remained in a grizzley mood saying "NO" to everything except chocolate pudding . (He may have been grizzley but he wasn't a dummy"
I love people watching. For the most part Californians smile a lot. (Maybe they love the sun shine and warm weather or maybe they are just crazy)
Dad and I both have noticed that Pennsylvanians as a whole (Weavers, you are an exception) scowl a lot and rarely say please or thankyou.
We haven't spent enough time in Va or N.C. to make any valid observations
What I have noticed lately is that even usually cheery Californians seem grumpy. It is hard to tell with Dad. He is generally grumpy so I don't know whether to blame it on his Pa. roots or just the shorter Fall days. The scary thing is that he is one of the HAPPIER people that I have come in contact with lately.
Maybe it is because the extensions for filing income taxes ran out today. Maybe it is the shorter hours of Daylight. Maybe moms are grizzley because their little darlings are back in school and and they miss them (probably not) Or maybe the human race isn't as highly evolved as we would like to believe and like the grizzley bears are just grumpy because they are tired from the long busy summer days and are getting weary like tired kids and are wishing that winter hibernation time would hurry up.
What ever the reason, I hope you all don't fit into the grizzley group. Enjoy the fall. Winter summer and spring. I hope Dad and I have lots and lots more of them to ,grizzle thru
When Doug and I were in Costco this weekend, the box girl was complaining: "Did you see that kid just ahead of you? I said your'e a cute kid and he replied 'NO I'M NOT !! I DON'T LIKE YOU ! " I was just trying to be friendly!"
Today at Ralphs I said the same thing to a little boy behind me in line and got spit at. His Mom said "Sorry ! Kids will be kids and for some reason he has been really grizzley lately"
2 year old Jacob who I watch loves brushing his teeth after breakfast with Dennis and spitting into the sink. He recently tried spitting at ME. He only tried spitting at me once and had one warning that only tired kids spit. And that if he did it again he would have a date with the sleep mat. So far he hasn't tried it again. Even without spitting he remained in a grizzley mood saying "NO" to everything except chocolate pudding . (He may have been grizzley but he wasn't a dummy"
I love people watching. For the most part Californians smile a lot. (Maybe they love the sun shine and warm weather or maybe they are just crazy)
Dad and I both have noticed that Pennsylvanians as a whole (Weavers, you are an exception) scowl a lot and rarely say please or thankyou.
We haven't spent enough time in Va or N.C. to make any valid observations
What I have noticed lately is that even usually cheery Californians seem grumpy. It is hard to tell with Dad. He is generally grumpy so I don't know whether to blame it on his Pa. roots or just the shorter Fall days. The scary thing is that he is one of the HAPPIER people that I have come in contact with lately.
Maybe it is because the extensions for filing income taxes ran out today. Maybe it is the shorter hours of Daylight. Maybe moms are grizzley because their little darlings are back in school and and they miss them (probably not) Or maybe the human race isn't as highly evolved as we would like to believe and like the grizzley bears are just grumpy because they are tired from the long busy summer days and are getting weary like tired kids and are wishing that winter hibernation time would hurry up.
What ever the reason, I hope you all don't fit into the grizzley group. Enjoy the fall. Winter summer and spring. I hope Dad and I have lots and lots more of them to ,grizzle thru
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
family costumes conquered!
i'm holding a short guy, riley. and am typing one fingered. so no caps etc. here is the gabe costume that was giving mari angst, i think he is really cute. i'll try to post some of the other family costume pix now that ethel computer is cooperating. i just hope short guy, riley does the same
Monday, October 8, 2007
Things That Go Moo In The Night
Bob, Shelli and Doug are all battling a RAT invasion. Vegas Dog (Doug's) likes to bark at the nocturnal creatures. Doug decided to solve the problem by setting a trap. Great Idea ? Only if the critter is smaller than the trap. On Friday (?) night at 2am, trap went snap ! Critter went SQUEEL, SQUEEL, SQUEEL for about 20 minutes before disappearing into Doug's closet. On Saturday, Doug and Bob, manned with machettes and Grandson's light sabre ventured into the walk in closet to finish the now silent critter off. Critter was deceased. Doug and Bob were relieved. Light sabre is still at the ready. I just don't understand why Dog and Master didn't deal with critter Fri. night. Perhaps because light sabre was next door with grandson. At least now I know what to give Doug for Christmas.
Prior to hearing about sons' critter adventures I was going to lament kid toys whose batteries run down and turn themselves on in the middle of the night. Complaining about hearing "Elmo's Song" and Moos in the middle of the night seems pretty tame compared to what is going on DOWN in Capo Beach.
We got our Halloween decorations up this weekend. I'll see if Ethel the computer will cooperate and I'll post a PICTURE.
Prior to hearing about sons' critter adventures I was going to lament kid toys whose batteries run down and turn themselves on in the middle of the night. Complaining about hearing "Elmo's Song" and Moos in the middle of the night seems pretty tame compared to what is going on DOWN in Capo Beach.
We got our Halloween decorations up this weekend. I'll see if Ethel the computer will cooperate and I'll post a PICTURE.
Friday, October 5, 2007
Blogging and Infants dont Mix
I've been trying to find time to write about the awesome time that Dad and I had at Disneyland with Bob and family. Two infants and Jacob (2) seem to take up every spare minute of the day even tho I get up at 5 am. Or maybe it is the cooking, cleaning, laundry etc. etc. I think I will just have to give up the cleaning and laundry and the etc. etc,
Bob and Shelli have Disneyland down to a science. We got on about a dozen rides in the 9 hours that we were in the park and even had time to eat two meals and go potty too.
BREAKING NEWS Now that I am officially OLD, I have discovered that I LOVE roller coasters! Space Mt. was great. I used to throw up on the Ortega and now even the Matterhorn is fun. Liz and Kurt watch out I want to ride the Griffin
The highlight of the day was Jedi training camp where Isaac was chosen to fight Darth Magna (?) a REALLY scary black and red dude who REALLY knew how to handle a light sabre.
One of the short guys (aka infants) just decided that nap time is over. Call me if you want to hear more about Disneyland. I could talk for hours about our day. Remember to talk to Bob about Disneyland's Fast Passes. They are new since Dennis and I were last at the park and they really make the experience great!
Next blog is going to be "Batteries and things that go Moo in the Night!" At least that is my intended topic If I get to write again before I forget what Batteries and Cows have in common.
Bob and Shelli have Disneyland down to a science. We got on about a dozen rides in the 9 hours that we were in the park and even had time to eat two meals and go potty too.
BREAKING NEWS Now that I am officially OLD, I have discovered that I LOVE roller coasters! Space Mt. was great. I used to throw up on the Ortega and now even the Matterhorn is fun. Liz and Kurt watch out I want to ride the Griffin
The highlight of the day was Jedi training camp where Isaac was chosen to fight Darth Magna (?) a REALLY scary black and red dude who REALLY knew how to handle a light sabre.
One of the short guys (aka infants) just decided that nap time is over. Call me if you want to hear more about Disneyland. I could talk for hours about our day. Remember to talk to Bob about Disneyland's Fast Passes. They are new since Dennis and I were last at the park and they really make the experience great!
Next blog is going to be "Batteries and things that go Moo in the Night!" At least that is my intended topic If I get to write again before I forget what Batteries and Cows have in common.
Monday, October 1, 2007
? ? ? ? ? ? ?
How to title this blog? Blue tooth looking for a mouse? ( It took me five minutes and a call to Mari to get past this) or Roomba Returns! (Thanks Jacob , I'll have to clean under our bed more often) Corned Beef Jerkey ( you REALLY don't want to know) or Why toaster ovens are made of metal (AGAIN you REALLY don't want to know) or Restaurant Inspection Violations (And Mari thinks that her newspaper's Baby Name column is interesting) or WOW!!! DISNEYLAND!!!!! It is the LAST hands down!
Thankyou, Thankyou, Thankyou Bob Shelli and Issac! for one of the most wonderful days that I've had in a long, long time! I'm a kid at heart ( I do TRY to stuff it down for Dennis's sake) Our Sunday at Disneyland was AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The last time we were there was 20 years ago (No wonder the bamboo in Adventureland seems taller.
The other options in what to title this blog will have to wait.
Our whole weekend was pretty great! Dennis and I left for Capo around 4:30 on Friday. One Day care kid was supposed to leave around 2 o'clock but the battery on his Mom's watch must have worn down. Since the snails on the side of the I 5 were passing us Dennis offered to stop at Red Lobster for the all you can eat ENDLESS SHRIMPFEST! Having enjoyed the LOBSTERFEST How could I refuse. Except for an upset stomach as a result of eating the ends of Dennis's endless shrimp (they are crunchy and I REALLY like them) as well as my whole shrimp, ends included ,it was a great start to the weekend.
Saturday morning was spent with daughter-in-law Shelli. (Thankyou Shelli - I REALLY craved ADULT conversation!) Xmas shopping and Halloween Costume shopping. Isaac is going to be a SOMETHING REALLY COOL from Starwars. (I can't remember what. But ) He will look really COOL. I saw some costumes that I LOVED for Dennis that he would HATE. He needs to dress up for work and resists till the last minute. (Last year's turkey) How about some suggestions. The Finance Guy was a Sugar Daddy Candy. So come up with something that REALLY shows Dennis's character. How did the survey for C.C.'s costume end up ?
Prior to leaving the house on Saturday Isaac handed me a catalogue and specified exactly which lego sets he would like for Xmas and instructed me NOT to listen to Dennis NOR Mom because they don't listen as good as they should. He repeated this three times. Do think that the repetitions were a message that my listening skills need improving as well? We never found the Legos, but we did find other fun stuff for almost everyone else.
I got to see Isaac's Kdg schoolwork and with his computer skills (aka video games) it won't be long before he is ordering his own Xmas gifts on line and charging them to SANTA's account ( Watch out Bob and Grandpa!)
ON TO DISNEYLAND ! SUNDAY MORNING !
As I said before it has bee 20 (scary how the time passes) years since we were last at Disneyland. Isn't it abuse to keep my inner child away from such a great place when we live so close ? DENNIS???
Disneyland was even better than I remembered it. Probably because we were with Isaac. I'm looking fwd to return visits with Micaela and C.C. and Kermit and Alfrd/Alfreda.
Thank goodness that Bob and Shelli were smart enough to get year passes and to enjoy touristy vacation stuff (see Cheerio blog) They also know how to get on 12 rides in 9 hours and have the time to eat and go Potty too..Fast Pass is the Greatest invention since hand sanitizer. I actually carry some in my purse but Shelli beat me to it.
Dennis just came home for dinner so our Disneyland Adventure recap will have to wait until tomorrow. I'll try to fwd some pictures on email if Ethel gets stubborn (like she did on the Halloween costumes - my favorites that didn't get sent were Gabe wearing a Cowboy Hat and nothinfg else chewing on a straw , Kurt in Mari's Pink pants and Isaac as a toilet)
Until tomorrow
Thankyou, Thankyou, Thankyou Bob Shelli and Issac! for one of the most wonderful days that I've had in a long, long time! I'm a kid at heart ( I do TRY to stuff it down for Dennis's sake) Our Sunday at Disneyland was AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The last time we were there was 20 years ago (No wonder the bamboo in Adventureland seems taller.
The other options in what to title this blog will have to wait.
Our whole weekend was pretty great! Dennis and I left for Capo around 4:30 on Friday. One Day care kid was supposed to leave around 2 o'clock but the battery on his Mom's watch must have worn down. Since the snails on the side of the I 5 were passing us Dennis offered to stop at Red Lobster for the all you can eat ENDLESS SHRIMPFEST! Having enjoyed the LOBSTERFEST How could I refuse. Except for an upset stomach as a result of eating the ends of Dennis's endless shrimp (they are crunchy and I REALLY like them) as well as my whole shrimp, ends included ,it was a great start to the weekend.
Saturday morning was spent with daughter-in-law Shelli. (Thankyou Shelli - I REALLY craved ADULT conversation!) Xmas shopping and Halloween Costume shopping. Isaac is going to be a SOMETHING REALLY COOL from Starwars. (I can't remember what. But ) He will look really COOL. I saw some costumes that I LOVED for Dennis that he would HATE. He needs to dress up for work and resists till the last minute. (Last year's turkey) How about some suggestions. The Finance Guy was a Sugar Daddy Candy. So come up with something that REALLY shows Dennis's character. How did the survey for C.C.'s costume end up ?
Prior to leaving the house on Saturday Isaac handed me a catalogue and specified exactly which lego sets he would like for Xmas and instructed me NOT to listen to Dennis NOR Mom because they don't listen as good as they should. He repeated this three times. Do think that the repetitions were a message that my listening skills need improving as well? We never found the Legos, but we did find other fun stuff for almost everyone else.
I got to see Isaac's Kdg schoolwork and with his computer skills (aka video games) it won't be long before he is ordering his own Xmas gifts on line and charging them to SANTA's account ( Watch out Bob and Grandpa!)
ON TO DISNEYLAND ! SUNDAY MORNING !
As I said before it has bee 20 (scary how the time passes) years since we were last at Disneyland. Isn't it abuse to keep my inner child away from such a great place when we live so close ? DENNIS???
Disneyland was even better than I remembered it. Probably because we were with Isaac. I'm looking fwd to return visits with Micaela and C.C. and Kermit and Alfrd/Alfreda.
Thank goodness that Bob and Shelli were smart enough to get year passes and to enjoy touristy vacation stuff (see Cheerio blog) They also know how to get on 12 rides in 9 hours and have the time to eat and go Potty too..Fast Pass is the Greatest invention since hand sanitizer. I actually carry some in my purse but Shelli beat me to it.
Dennis just came home for dinner so our Disneyland Adventure recap will have to wait until tomorrow. I'll try to fwd some pictures on email if Ethel gets stubborn (like she did on the Halloween costumes - my favorites that didn't get sent were Gabe wearing a Cowboy Hat and nothinfg else chewing on a straw , Kurt in Mari's Pink pants and Isaac as a toilet)
Until tomorrow
Friday, September 21, 2007
At least it wasn't Cheerios
Our time share ( 00PS!! I mean FRACTIONAL OWNERSHIP) presentation dynner wasn't Cheerios (Hi, Liz and Mari) or 'POUSIN" as a cookbook that I got for Liz calls chicken. (Don't worry Liz. I exchanged it) but was a YUMMY Soggy Subway Sandwich and a bag of Lays potatoe chips. The Lays were good. and I was hungry, Dennis was the one complaining about the gourmet dinner fare.
It's good that Dennis and I didn't go in with high expectations. BUT ! WHAT WERE THEY THINKING ??? Serving soggy subway sandwiches and marketing them as dinner does NOT lend to their creditability!!!
We were met in the sparsley furnished (serving subways as dinner we shouldn't have been surprised) waiting area by a sales rep who must have been a Valley Girl/ cheerleader in a former life.
Don't you, like ,just LOOOVE!!!! Vacationing? Come with me."
That's when we were offered Dinner
After multiple questions read from a crib sheet:
Sales Rep said "Like where did you go for your last awesome vacation?"
To which we replied "McKeespirt Pa. and Fayetteville N.C."
Our answer was met with a quizical but very blank stare. followed by a slight pause and then a hand clap. and a
"How Wonderful" Shortly after sorting out for our Mensa Sales Rep that we don't take normal vacations and that we were just there for the Disney Passes offered at the Lobsterfest for 90 min.s of our time, we were asked when our last REAL vacation was. Dennis and I looked at each other, scratched our heads and when we figured out that she could out last us (She was fussing with her nails) We came up with an answer! YES !! We went to Koma with Mari and Gabe about 5 years ago !!
We must have interrupted some profound thought because she seemed startled that we had finally come up with an answer to her question, or maybe she had just forgotten her question. Her next utterance was "KONA ?? Where's Kona?"
OH ! That Kona. Hawaii!"
"How like REALLY GREAT"
After reinforcing the fact tha we, at least until Dennis retires, do NOT take traditional vacations, will have NO opportunity to take traditional vacations, really ENJOY visiting our kids and grandkids and have NO desire to golf, gilf, golf or scuba div, our Sales Rep clapped her hand jubulently and said in a very entheusiastic voice "I can see from what you two guys (? - Spa treatment???) have said that you really love travel and adventure !!" "HUH ???"
YES Darling Husband there is a worse listener than you ! Dennis felt validated.
The bottom line (and Gabe will enjoy this) was that for a mear $17659 and $629 / yearly fractional homeowner association fee we will have the opportunity to purchase from one to three weeks at any AWESOME resort in their system for a paultry $169 domestic or $199 European rate. The number of weeks and the size of the unit varies with location and time of year.
On the chart that we were shown, the $17649 would buy 1 week in a studio in the middle of the Mojave in July. I'm exaggerating slightly but not that much. After the "DINNER" I doubted everything that was said or seen at that presentation.
After 60 minutes we (I was having fun) had burned out our sales rep by answering all of her questionas absolutely honestly and not (as clients are supposed to) saying what she wanted to hear. She excused herself and her manager appeared .We told her just what we had initially said to Valley firl "We are here for the Disney Tickets" Rep #2 lasted about 20 minutes but didn't have the passion and entheusiasm of out 1sr rep. We knew that we were obligated to 90 min's to get the tickets so we anxiously waited to see what they would do with us for the final 10 minutes. A very nice managers manager came by and offered us cookies and a virtual tour of their MANY MANY properties around the world.. (The cookies were pretty good)
Their virtual tour computer was slower than Ethel. and the picture was grainy. I don't know who was happier , Dennis to be leaving or the 3 sales reps to be getting rid of us., But when the timer went off we were ushered over to the prize desk.
We got the 2 one Day passes to Disneyland, 2 AMC movie tickets and 2 passes to the L.A. County fair. Not bad for 90 min of our time if you don't count the dinner. I thought about suggesting that they serve Cheerios but Dennis was tugging me toward the parking garage.
Today (Friday) we are meeting Bob and Isaac at Halloween Disney land. I plan on going on the Nemo ride to see if Perhaps scub diving might be in our retirement future.
It's good that Dennis and I didn't go in with high expectations. BUT ! WHAT WERE THEY THINKING ??? Serving soggy subway sandwiches and marketing them as dinner does NOT lend to their creditability!!!
We were met in the sparsley furnished (serving subways as dinner we shouldn't have been surprised) waiting area by a sales rep who must have been a Valley Girl/ cheerleader in a former life.
Don't you, like ,just LOOOVE!!!! Vacationing? Come with me."
That's when we were offered Dinner
After multiple questions read from a crib sheet:
Sales Rep said "Like where did you go for your last awesome vacation?"
To which we replied "McKeespirt Pa. and Fayetteville N.C."
Our answer was met with a quizical but very blank stare. followed by a slight pause and then a hand clap. and a
"How Wonderful" Shortly after sorting out for our Mensa Sales Rep that we don't take normal vacations and that we were just there for the Disney Passes offered at the Lobsterfest for 90 min.s of our time, we were asked when our last REAL vacation was. Dennis and I looked at each other, scratched our heads and when we figured out that she could out last us (She was fussing with her nails) We came up with an answer! YES !! We went to Koma with Mari and Gabe about 5 years ago !!
We must have interrupted some profound thought because she seemed startled that we had finally come up with an answer to her question, or maybe she had just forgotten her question. Her next utterance was "KONA ?? Where's Kona?"
OH ! That Kona. Hawaii!"
"How like REALLY GREAT"
After reinforcing the fact tha we, at least until Dennis retires, do NOT take traditional vacations, will have NO opportunity to take traditional vacations, really ENJOY visiting our kids and grandkids and have NO desire to golf, gilf, golf or scuba div, our Sales Rep clapped her hand jubulently and said in a very entheusiastic voice "I can see from what you two guys (? - Spa treatment???) have said that you really love travel and adventure !!" "HUH ???"
YES Darling Husband there is a worse listener than you ! Dennis felt validated.
The bottom line (and Gabe will enjoy this) was that for a mear $17659 and $629 / yearly fractional homeowner association fee we will have the opportunity to purchase from one to three weeks at any AWESOME resort in their system for a paultry $169 domestic or $199 European rate. The number of weeks and the size of the unit varies with location and time of year.
On the chart that we were shown, the $17649 would buy 1 week in a studio in the middle of the Mojave in July. I'm exaggerating slightly but not that much. After the "DINNER" I doubted everything that was said or seen at that presentation.
After 60 minutes we (I was having fun) had burned out our sales rep by answering all of her questionas absolutely honestly and not (as clients are supposed to) saying what she wanted to hear. She excused herself and her manager appeared .We told her just what we had initially said to Valley firl "We are here for the Disney Tickets" Rep #2 lasted about 20 minutes but didn't have the passion and entheusiasm of out 1sr rep. We knew that we were obligated to 90 min's to get the tickets so we anxiously waited to see what they would do with us for the final 10 minutes. A very nice managers manager came by and offered us cookies and a virtual tour of their MANY MANY properties around the world.. (The cookies were pretty good)
Their virtual tour computer was slower than Ethel. and the picture was grainy. I don't know who was happier , Dennis to be leaving or the 3 sales reps to be getting rid of us., But when the timer went off we were ushered over to the prize desk.
We got the 2 one Day passes to Disneyland, 2 AMC movie tickets and 2 passes to the L.A. County fair. Not bad for 90 min of our time if you don't count the dinner. I thought about suggesting that they serve Cheerios but Dennis was tugging me toward the parking garage.
Today (Friday) we are meeting Bob and Isaac at Halloween Disney land. I plan on going on the Nemo ride to see if Perhaps scub diving might be in our retirement future.
Thursday, September 20, 2007
YOU KNOW YOU ARE DESPERATE
You know that you are desperate for adult conversation when you sign up for a time share presentation. No offense Mari and Christy but most of our conversations revolve around "KIDS". Okay REALLY GREAT KIDS but my mind craves more than the number of times the little darlings got you up last night and discussing the best ways to avoid the projectile in projectile vomiting.
Dad and I signed up for this presentation at the Lobsterfest. After 4 lbs. of Lobster Dad doesn't converse any more than usual but he WILL agree to almost anything.
I think that this time share is either in Northern California. South of Tiajauna, or perhaps Cambpdoa or Australia. The "hook" (What gets you to sign up") was either grapes, Ostriches, Shell fish or Rubber Duckies.
I DO recall the salesman looking me (Clad in my lobsterhat - picture to follow) in the eye and saying that there was a WONDERFUL SPA on the premises. Do you think he was trying to tell me something. You all know how much I LOVE the idea of spa treatments (NOT)
We get a free dinner out of this and the promise of 2 Disneyland passes. We'll see how hard they are to use. Down- down- down season only???
I'll write more tomorrow after we actually attend this FUN event.
Dad and I signed up for this presentation at the Lobsterfest. After 4 lbs. of Lobster Dad doesn't converse any more than usual but he WILL agree to almost anything.
I think that this time share is either in Northern California. South of Tiajauna, or perhaps Cambpdoa or Australia. The "hook" (What gets you to sign up") was either grapes, Ostriches, Shell fish or Rubber Duckies.
I DO recall the salesman looking me (Clad in my lobsterhat - picture to follow) in the eye and saying that there was a WONDERFUL SPA on the premises. Do you think he was trying to tell me something. You all know how much I LOVE the idea of spa treatments (NOT)
We get a free dinner out of this and the promise of 2 Disneyland passes. We'll see how hard they are to use. Down- down- down season only???
I'll write more tomorrow after we actually attend this FUN event.
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Monday, September 17, 2007
an A B C weekend (ants, blogs, cars)
The crib notes for yesterday's (first ever) Blog were written on my "to do/grocery" list for Monday. The notes were written right between the word "ANTS" (We have a problem!! Walk into our kitchen and you have creepy crawley black sox on your formerly nare feet! CORRECTION! I have creepy crawley black ant sox on MY bare feet. Dennis' idea of bare feet is combat boots withOUT sox.) Berries and Rubber Duckies.
My lists can be very interesting even to me. Especially if I don't complete them quickly and forget why I noted the things that I do. What recipe has rubber duckies as an ingredient? Oh well.
This past weekend Dennis and I went to the L.A. Harbor Lobster Festival in San Pedro. It is advertized as being the world's largest with13 Tons of lobster being cooked. We sure ate our share. I can't wait for all of the grandkids to be old enough to enjoy it. Isaac would have loved the pirates amd so would Micaela but Caroline is a bit on the small side.
From there we went on to the Route 66 Rendezvous in San Bernadino. Cars Cars and more Cars. Dennis would have liked to have been in the 66 Galaxie but we were on the comfy easy to park Goldwing motorcycle , so "tough luck Charlie" Dennis. After walking around (and taking pix) for 3 1/2 houra my feet were crying MERCY! They aren't use to being confined in closed toe shoes. Dennis MUST have heard them because at about 6:30 pm we hopped on the Cycle and headed to the Bass Pro Shop Restaurant for dinner.
No vennison or Alligator this time. Just a great fish (grouper) sandwich
Thanks Genius Kid Mari (one of 4 if you don't count the grandkids) for your help in setting this blogspot up for Dad and me. Dad is hoping that it will relieve him of having to talk with me at odd hours of the day and night. Especially when he is brushing his teeth. Good luck!
My only problem with it is "What will we all talk about on the phone? once every one knows what exciting things we are doing."
If Mari can talk computer illiterate me thru the process, I'll post some pix of our weekend.
My lists can be very interesting even to me. Especially if I don't complete them quickly and forget why I noted the things that I do. What recipe has rubber duckies as an ingredient? Oh well.
This past weekend Dennis and I went to the L.A. Harbor Lobster Festival in San Pedro. It is advertized as being the world's largest with13 Tons of lobster being cooked. We sure ate our share. I can't wait for all of the grandkids to be old enough to enjoy it. Isaac would have loved the pirates amd so would Micaela but Caroline is a bit on the small side.
From there we went on to the Route 66 Rendezvous in San Bernadino. Cars Cars and more Cars. Dennis would have liked to have been in the 66 Galaxie but we were on the comfy easy to park Goldwing motorcycle , so "tough luck Charlie" Dennis. After walking around (and taking pix) for 3 1/2 houra my feet were crying MERCY! They aren't use to being confined in closed toe shoes. Dennis MUST have heard them because at about 6:30 pm we hopped on the Cycle and headed to the Bass Pro Shop Restaurant for dinner.
No vennison or Alligator this time. Just a great fish (grouper) sandwich
Thanks Genius Kid Mari (one of 4 if you don't count the grandkids) for your help in setting this blogspot up for Dad and me. Dad is hoping that it will relieve him of having to talk with me at odd hours of the day and night. Especially when he is brushing his teeth. Good luck!
My only problem with it is "What will we all talk about on the phone? once every one knows what exciting things we are doing."
If Mari can talk computer illiterate me thru the process, I'll post some pix of our weekend.
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Hi There
We, Mom and Dad Erdman have been feeling left behind not having a blog and all. Well Mari's fixed that now and we can take our first steps out into the world of blogging. That is if I can overcome the technical challenges of Ethel, my trusty Mac. We're contng down the days until our next trip to the east coast. At least Dennis is counting down, I have trouble keeping track of what day it is. Let's see if this mode of communication works and if so we'll try to be regular posters to the cyber world.
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