Just My Type

USA! USA!

2008-08-14T13:11:00.000-07:00

Want to know what we did to get into the Olympic spirit?

We went to Lake Placid!

We imagined what it would be like to have the guts to jump of this!

We fought hard for 1st.

We caught the Wet N Wild show.

These future Olympians landed in the pool.

We saw where the magic happened.

Miracle on Ice.

Drew watches the nation's best at Juniors camp.

Will he be there someday?

The museum. The medals.

Jim Craig's net and the team's memorabilia.

Remy found the art and figure skating fascinating.

We finished the day with a late lunch on the lake and some tacky tourist shopping.

What more could you ask for? How 'bout some more gold!?!

USA! USA! USA!

Gone Fishin'

2008-08-05T20:42:00.001-07:00

The guys went fishing today with a pro.

This was a real "kick-bass" fishing boat.

They boys caught several rock bass.

Michael landed this 18" lake trout.

Drew reeled in a 19.5" trout to record the day's best catch.

Well it was a fine outing until this loon came along and squelched the opportunity.

Ski School

2008-08-03T12:40:00.000-07:00

Piggies up!

Remy starts out with good form.

Wipeout!

Drew is ready.

He's up. First time ever!

Anyone ever heard of a wake skate? It's different than a wakeboard.

Our nephew Michael will try anything.

Up close.

Cute Kierstin, our niece.

August Rain

2008-08-03T11:45:00.001-07:00

Somewhere in the Adirondacks...

2008-08-01T13:59:00.000-07:00

Feelin' It

2008-07-29T13:21:00.000-07:00

In case any one is wondering....No, I did not feel that earthquake. I was deeply sedated in a massage chair while inches of skin were scraped from the bottom of my feet and at the same time, finger nails "enhanced". Maybe I would have felt something if I wasn't so dang ticklish and in a state of bliss.

Anyways, it will take more than a 5-point-whatever to get me out of pampering and preening.

As they say in California, "If the spa's a rockin', don't come a knockin'!"

Did My Butt Make An Impression?

2008-07-27T13:45:00.000-07:00

Today, LatteMommy asked a very good question:

"Where are you blogging from?"

Here's where you'll find me if I'm home. You'd think I'd be more interested in what was going on just past my screen. In this photo, 5 little heads are bobbing up and down. I admit it's a little like that scene in a movie or commercial where the women are marveling at the windows while the husband is engulfed in flames from the BBQ. When my friends have posted I'm all about their worlds.

As far as the tour goes, this vignette is in my family room (a den to you northerners). The view to the back is a good one and a stiff breeze comes through the window. I often lower a blind when it's sunny because it's hard to read the screen when I'm squinting.

I must confess, before snapping this photo, I removed some evidence of inappropriate behavior (or "behaviour" as Latte would type). I had a stack of Dove chocolate foil wrappers (from one sitting, mind you). Each chocolate has a secret message inside (like Be fearless; Count the stars; It's definitely a bubble-bath day!; and my favorite, You know what? You look good in red).

And one more thing, I would have never purchased the chocolate if it weren't for LatteMommy. She told me to do it. Well, kind of, she did. She's very powerful.

*Thank you LM. You're just what I needed!

Sand Between My Teeth

2008-07-16T12:12:00.001-07:00

My mom is here visiting from Maryland. Yesterday, we took the kids to the beach in the late afternoon. It was really nice as the beach was emptying and the tide rising. Perfect temperature. Big waves. Plenty of sun to work on our color without sunscreen.....Shhhh. Don't tell my dermotologist. We had so much fun, we're going back for more today.

Anyone want to join us? There's plenty of room.

Serenity Springs Spa & Resort

When I showed Drew the pool picture above, he asked with seriousness and concern, "Is there only one pool in China?"

Your Brain Or Mine?

2008-07-10T07:26:00.000-07:00

So I was reading The Art Around's blog and her post about her son got me thinking how amazing it is we are all so different. Just look at how different men and women are. Our brains are wired differently. Can I say different one more time? OK. Different.

If you want to explore the wiring of two people on opposite sides of the spectrum, I mean the extremes, just look at Andy and me. When I'm done with this little observation, you'll be shocked to hear we're still happily married.

When we were dating, I thought he was so handsome, I completely overlooked the things that someday, much later, I'd be wringing my hands and clenching my teeth over. His brain and mine are polar opposites, and while we often come to the same conclusion, we get there in different ways. We agree on most things; especially the biggies like say... life's ambitions, politics, money, hobbies, etc.

If you think about what our brains might look like. My wiring is probably similar to a bunch of toothpicks. Short, direct, sharp, to-the-point. Andy's must be like a huge bowl of pasta, with lots of twists and turns, maybe a meatball or two, muddied with sauce.

Let's say we are challenged with getting from point A to point Z:

I'm all about making the great leap from A, slightly touching off M for a split second, before crashing down on Z with "A HA! That's it. No questions. Done. Here we are. Nothing more to consider. What's next?".
Andy on the other hand, leaves A, finds J, wonders why he didn't see D, goes back to look and remembers he left his wallet at A, decides to try the F route, sees P, enjoys L, admires S, passes Z, goes back to N, and when he gets close to Y, Z grabs him.

I'm not saying one is better than the other. Just different. Andy thinks things through, he's the diplomat, he's loyal, thoughtful, considerate. He's looked at things from every angle and understands what it looks like, from inside-out. What's the rush? Me, on the other hand? I'm just right, whether I am or not. So what took you so long?

Recently, Remy and I went up to LA for a show. We never go to LA, so I drove Andy's car because it had one of those navigators. He programmed it for me so I wouldn't have to mess with it. See, he is sweet. I could listen to the lady give me directions. Normally I just eyeball a map and get a good mental picture.

Well, if I had listened to that navigator lady, I don't think I would have ever gotten out of the neighborhood! I was actually on the street which takes me directly to the freeway (about 2 miles up). The navigator wanted me to make about 52 left turns, head southeast before finding a different freeway to take west to find the same freeway I needed to go north! Want to hear something scary? Andy uses these navigators all the time. I don't think I've EVER been given good directions from one.

So anyways, in spite of our differences, we have a happy marriage. It doesn't always look like that when I'm on Z and wondering where the heck he is and if he even knows his alphabet. Fortunately for him, he's totally handsome and I'm happy to be first.

*For the record: I got totally lost in LA, lost my temper, and never let him know.

Who Are You Calling Old?

2008-07-09T21:41:00.000-07:00

Classmates.com is the gift that keeps on giving.

With my 20 year reunion (WHAT!?!) around the corner, my classmates account has really picked up. Old friends are appearing at an alarming rate and I love it! Today, a very dear friend came by and made my day. She was my 1st choice for partnering up in all school projects, we shared a locker....heck, that makes her my 1st roommate...and we also worked on the yearbook together. She and I were of one mind and had so many laughs together. Fortunately, we never got into too much trouble as we were both good students. You may find her here as "The Art Around". She's mostly a myspacer but she's now also blogging at A Journey You're Welcome To Join . She is creative, a beautiful writer, so witty and clever...all my favorite qualities. She also seems so much younger than me and I'm soooo not crazy about that. I've missed her. I would have gotten through the early years of parenting better had she been my sounding board.

I'll have to see if I have a photo of us to share. I'm sure Kalamazoo Mom of 2, Hopaige, and Krashtie insist.

Anyways, I've been busy catching up and it's been so much fun.

Summer Nights, Having a Blast

2008-06-28T23:06:00.000-07:00

Is there anything better than a spontaneous get-together at your house....especially if you're a kid and don't mind a filthy sock or two here and there?

Our friends from Phoenix came by to drop off a couple surfboards and a bike before heading back into the desert tomorrow. We were sitting around the firepit with a beer when they arrived. Fire + beer= Come sit with us. Shortly, the graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmellows were flyin'. Good times. A giant hot air balloon in the shape of a Panda Bear floated above. Unfortunately, I didn't act on my urge to grab my camera. I thought maybe it would be overkill. Kicking myself now.

Once we came in, the kids were rolling on the floor watching Blades of Glory. We couldn't resist their laughter and sat with them. We too had tears rolling down our checks and I almost needed mouth-to-mouth. Yep....Good times. We're gonna miss you guys (Matt, Bridge, Matt, & Tim).

Signed, Sealed, Delivered!

2008-06-27T23:59:00.000-07:00

Baby, he's yours!

Summer Wonderland

2008-06-26T20:14:00.000-07:00

Today was the most perfect California day... Sunny, clear, light & breezy and 75 degrees. The kids and I drove along the coast in the convertible and stopped for a leisurely lunch at Burgers & Brew in Solana Beach. No brew for us though.

Every night during the summer we count balloons floating over the house. Our record is ten but we average 5-7. Sometimes they are close enough to talk to the balloonists. Sometimes they hit a rooftop. They land in the strangest places. If we catch one, I'll be sure to tell you about it.

Like it or not......

2008-06-25T16:59:00.001-07:00

You're about to see much more of us. I've decided to post a daily photo or two highlighting the Jones' daily affairs. This accomplishes a couple things:

Keeps the grandparents and far away friends better in the loop,

Helps me document the kids' growth and activities as the dementia sets in,

Nips my blogger's block in the bud,

And lastly, gives me the challenge I've been looking for.

I have to thank Irene for cluing me into the 365 photo project. Her photography is gorgeous and she's really inspired me. I could learn a lot from her.

I sure hope to keep it fun and light-hearted. After all, I've already shown you my tax paperwork..... there's no where to go but up. Right?!

Today, the highlight was Remy's hair. Don't hate her too much. I'm sneaking into her room tonight to shave it off and make a wig. You can have one of your own in a year or so.

By the way, this haircut and style was completely her own idea and design. She lost about 4 inches. I think we've reached a new phase with her being more concerned with her appearance. I've been dreaming of this day! And I'm sure I'll eat those words.

Fletcher Cove

2008-06-25T11:45:00.001-07:00

We spent Tuesday afternoon at the beach. My girlfriend Bridget is here visiting with her boys and we had a great time catching up on long-overdue girl talk. Lots going on in our lives.

No shark sightings. Another perfect day.

Hockey Nights in California

2008-06-25T11:16:00.000-07:00

Andy plays for two teams on Monday and Wednesday nights.

Here I thought Andy might be trash-talking. Very cool photo....until I asked him what he was saying. "I just heard a crack. Was that your back or mine?"

With only 2 subs, no one gets to be a bench warmer. Andy is catching a much needed breath here.
A little razzle-dazzle. He scored first for his team.

The refs had a busy night in this non-checking league. Three players on the other team were thrown out. At one point late in the game, they had three additional players in the box, 3 on the ice and no subs.

Monkey see; Monkey do.

Freaky Friday

2008-06-17T08:48:00.000-07:00

Let me set the scene at our house on Sunday night, Father's Day:

Andy happily cooking his own gourmet Father's Day dinner. Big flames on the grill; basil, balsamic, and mozzarella flying around the kitchen.

Me, up to my ears in monster cable cords and remotes, problem solving & improving upon the work of the Time Warner cable guy and Best Buy Geek Squad. After installing the Father's Day flat screen in Andy's office, they left unable to finish the job.

Just as Andy had dinner ready to go, I came running through the house on my victory lap, cheering and high-fiving everyone and creating a huge celebration pile in the middle of the family room.

Dinner was beyond fabulous and you should see the picture quality on the Sony.

It was Andy who keenly observed "at some point we switched rolls."

Now, how girl is THAT!

Strike Up the Band!

2008-06-10T12:52:00.000-07:00

Last night, I was entertained by my daughter's school band at their year-end performance. What a difference a year makes!

We heard the choirs, both upper and lower, as well as the bands. Remy plays the flute in the beginning band. She did so well and looked comfortable and happy on stage. She's also decided to continue with the flute next year so I guess she really likes it. Her musical inclinations are not of my gene pool, but I give her big high-fives for her efforts and talents.

The band played fun, patriotic songs. When they played "Let's Go Band #2" all the dads in the audience bopped their heads back and forth. I guess everyone went to the University of Michigan. It was all I could do not to yell out "Let's Go Blue!"

If I have any readers still hanging around, what's your school's fight song? Clemson's is the "Tiger Rag" and Arizona's is "Bear Down". I've never been entirely comfortable with that phrase "Bear Down", by the way. Anyways, tell me your song and maybe Remy can play it. Heck, maybe she'll do something genius like choosing her school based on their song. Why not? Speaking of theme songs, Andy's favorite is Brass Bonanza, a very dated Hartford Whalers' anthem. I may have already mentioned that. If so, sorry...I just can't let that one go.

The show ended with both choirs and both bands taking the stage to play the National Anthem. All the parents stood with their hands over their hearts and sung along. What a great way to start summer. Play ball!

Still Thawing

2008-05-28T22:05:00.000-07:00

It's been a while....

We spent Memorial Day Weekend at an international hockey tournament in Anaheim. "International" meaning Russian with more than a few Canadians. It was amazing and our boys played really well. We took a recreational team up to play against LA's and Orange County's best. We played at a higher level than we've ever played. We kicked some you-know-what.

Here are a few photos until I get my act together:

Hubby at war.

The big kids cheering on the younger team at the championship game. Drew is third from the left.

Message For The Next President

2008-05-14T14:51:00.000-07:00

I have an excellent nominee for your Surgeon General appointment.

Finishing off a nutritious Happy Meal, Drew discovered a clever trick to find out if food has fat.

"Mom, do you know how to see if your food has fat in it?"

"No Drew. How do you find out?"

"Well you should eat about six of whatever you are eating and then try to snap your fingers. If they are too slippery to snap, then you've eaten fat."

There. That should solve America's obesity problem.

You're welcome and he's available.

Still A Floozie, Part II

2008-05-13T08:56:00.000-07:00

And the trend of subtle, or not so subtle, clues of my floozie-ness continues.

I was driving along this morning listening to "Monique and the Man" on a local JackFM station. Monique was analyzing callers' names and describing their personality attributes. First there was a James, then a Diana, then a Kaitlyn..... I thought to myself, "What are the chances I'll hear all about Tina in my half-mile drive up the hill?" The population isn't exactly crawling with Tinas.

Well, if lightening didn't strike!

The next caller was Tina.

"Ooooohhhh!" says Monique. She continues:

"Tinas are loose. They are not sluts, per se; but because they are easy-going and friendly, they are often misread. They are loyal to the bone (her word choice, not mine) and they will take a bullet for a friend."

OK then.

Happy Mother's Day You Floozies!

2008-05-11T13:34:00.000-07:00

OK. I've just noticed a trend here and I'm more than a little concerned. Last week I was invited to join a friend's bunko group for her May party. The invite went like this:

"Hey Bunko Babes! The Blahblah Court girls Sassy and Kitty (all names changed) will be hosting this month at 7 pm at Sassy's house. Signature Drink of the Evening: Flirtini (Sassy picked it for the name). Hope you can all make it to our last regular Bunko night. Bring your calendars so we can set some dates for our summer get togethers... Sassy and Kitty

PS. Tina-this is our usual raunchy group--want to join us this time?"

Ummmmmmm...How could I pass up such a lovely invitation as this? Was she implying I'd fit right in with the raunchy group? Who me?!?

This is morning the trend becomes a little more clear. Waiting for me at my front door was this darling package.

Awwwwwww. Sweeeeeeeeet!

Who is it from?

I dunno. It's a mystery. I love mysterious, secret admirers.

What's inside?

Wow! Very extravagant and fun! For me? Really? Wow!

Um. Wait a second. What do you mean "Floozie!"? Who's calling who a Floozie?

OK. I am completely blown away by this cute and clever gift. I have NO CLUE who it could be. I have more than my fair share of cutting-edge, generous, smart, ingenious friends...any of whom might have stealthly surprised me.... but I can't go around asking people "Do you think I am a Floozie?" "Are you my Bavarian Bunchkin?" "Where were you on the morning Mother's Day?

All I know is I am the Original Floozie and more than one person knows it!

Our Welcome Wagon Needs Work

2008-05-08T12:32:00.000-07:00

We're getting new neighbors.

The house on our cul-de-sac sold recently and the previous family is now gone. Any day now, we'll see a big moving van. My kids are hopeful. They always are.

Do they have children? The kids hope.

Will one be a girl? Remy hopes.

Will there be boys? Drew hopes for multiple boys. He likes them to come in pairs. He likes brothers.

Will they be the right ages? We all hope.

Drew's preferences don't end there. There is something else he's looking for.

I asked another neighbor if they knew anything about the family moving in. She tells me they have elementary-aged children (Yes!) and they are from Chicago (Great).

Drew's reaction?... Jumping up and down, clapping his hands, and chanting "Snowy people, snowy people..."

So what is it he's REALLY hoping for?

This!

You see, if they are "snowy people" there is a greater chance they like hockey. Chicago has good hockey. If they like hockey, there is a good chance they actually play it too.

Is that too much to ask for?

No? We have just one more itsy-bitsy request...

Can their last name be Orr, Hull, or Esposito!?!

Que Paso, San Diego?

2008-05-07T08:39:00.000-07:00

What the heck is up with San Diego? Can San Diego go a day, a SINGLE DAY, without lighting up the headlines.

It all started with the gruesome shark attacked at a beach near OUR house. I was already petrified of sharks. I'm not joking. I truly believe that's how I'm going out. There was a time you couldn't get me out of the ocean. Now I have little panic attacks.

Then we hear about an arrest of a fugitive from Michigan. This woman assumed another identity for 34 years or so and happened to be living in MY neighborhood. How does 8 roof tops away sound? And you want to know something else? The Michigan prison she escaped from was in a town I lived in. Cue the Twilight Zone music.

I'm sure you've heard about the pipe bomb explosion down at our Federal Courthouse.

How about the drug bust at San Diego State? Like that's surprising. (Sorry Pam! I don't mean to disrespect your prestigious university.)

And now we have this cute little, baby seal on the beach with fishing net around its neck....and no one can help it because a federal law saying you can't approach the seal if it will drive other seals into the water. Somebody tell me what's wrong with seals going into the water? Where's the common sense? Why is it when environmentalists pass legislature (I know they mean well) it causes new problems. Always. I love baby seals as much as the next guy, but do we really need to legislate seals going into the water? These seals have taken over an entire beach cove and are quite comfortable around people. If there was a shark in the water....and I am SURE (absolutely sure) there is, trust me....The seals will move around but they aren't going into the water. Geez!

Anyways, San Diego, it's time to put your head down and get out of the spotlight. I'm a little sick of all the attention and the news has gotten a waaaaaayyy too close to home.

*Update: The baby seal is free! Now what to do about my neighbor????

With This Ring

2008-05-05T19:12:00.000-07:00

The wedding was wonderful! We had such a good time seeing Chris and Amy get married on the water in Annapolis. Amy looked stunning. Chris cleaned up pretty nicely too. He was an enthusiastic groom and you could really tell they planned every detail. I have to say it's really nice being on the groom's side when it comes to weddings. You just show up and enjoy yourself. We certainly did that.

All our cousins came and it was good to see everyone. We were missing one who's overseas in the military. Both kids stood up in the wedding. My dad was the Best Man and he gave a great toast. No surprise there!

Unfortunately I don't have many photos. I only took a couple from my seat. I felt funny taking them, like I should be "in the moment" and not fooling around with the camera distracting people. Therefore, I only have these plus a couple similar shots.

We'll have to wait until the happy honeymooners get back from Fiji and New Zealand to see the good photos.