The Churchill Family: Scott,Kristina,Kita and Katy

2011-10-02T18:24:00.001-05:00

There is no "I" in Team

Katy's Bike...

2011-07-06T16:48:00.001-05:00

Her favorite gift EV~A, her bike.
She received it for her 5 year old birthday present and it's the one thing she has always played with, took care of and cherished. It's nothing fancy, nothing extravagant just a bike,and it is hers...she sings, talks to herself,and rides like the wind pretending she can fly on it.
She rides, when she is happy, mad or sad.

Do you remember your first bike?Tell me about it.

The Big Booms...

2011-07-04T16:04:00.000-05:00

The best part of the 4th of July after celebrating our independence, and spending time with family and friends and good food is the "BOOM BOOMS" as my daughter Katy would say. Here are some pictures of the fireworks display down our street last night. The were absolutely magnificent! Come take a peek!

Happy Fourth of July to all of you and your families!

The Fourth Of July Romper

2011-07-04T00:39:00.000-05:00

Katy had a blast this 4th of July with all her family and friends. She sure rocked her Romper from Lil Blue Boo. Please stop by and take a look at all her creations.

Lil Booms!

2011-07-04T00:29:00.000-05:00

Our friend Jeremy brought over some "small sized caliber" fireworks last night for the kids, we all had such a wonderful time. However, these fireworks did have a lot of flame and high pitch screaming to them, so they watched a safe distance away, why we lit them off!

Lots have light a grown up sparkler

This "Missouri" boat had the best bang for your buck!

Double Trouble

She Loves Hats...

2011-07-01T22:56:00.000-05:00

Been gone for a long while, missed you all. Here are some new pictures of Katy!

Pretty Woodpecker...

2011-04-01T10:23:00.000-05:00

My Brother, Steve

2011-03-11T12:08:00.000-06:00

There is something about this picture that gets me every time. The purity of the picture,
the cute little red converse, the wagon that has all his John Deere Tractors in it.
Or maybe it is the umbrella and the darling yellow raincoat... but i think the best thing about this picture, is his most adorable happy smile and joy he is feeling playing in the rain...
Love you Steve!

My Objective...

2011-03-02T10:19:00.000-06:00

Objectives (definition) Precise, tangible, can be validated, are concrete, free of bias, based on facts, observable

My Objective: To walk, jog or run in the Idita-Walk and complete it in a timely matter.

My objective is completed, I finished the race, lost 8 pounds and 3 inches off my waist too!
Time for a doughnut!
Oh and by the way did you see my number, 111th. Love that number!

Skating...

2011-02-28T18:52:00.000-06:00

Katy had a skating competition on Sunday. She did very well and took home two bronze medals to show her Dad when he gets home.
We are so very proud of her and how driven she is in trying to reach her skating goals.
Love you Kat, you are an amazing skater, I can't believe you are only six years old.
Congrats!!!

Stiches...

2011-02-27T17:41:00.000-06:00

Boys will be Boys...

The Dance...

2011-02-21T10:53:00.001-06:00

There is a yearly Father and Daughter dance at the YMCA every year, and Katy just loves to go. This year the theme was Tropical Escape...so we needed to find a dress for her and a shirt for Dad that was just right...

Katy picked out this beautifully coloured dress and then found the perfect shirt for her Dad.
They just looked so darn cute together...I remember my father and daughter dances with my dad, i can still remember that smile on his face...one night of just me and him, so very special. I know she feels the same way and we both look at the special bond between fathers and daughters fondly.

They had a great time this year, one hour and ten minutes on the dance floor...doing the Chicken Dance and the Macarena, and one or two slow dances so her Dad could catch a breath. They also had great food catered in by Fernando's restaurant and a special brownie with ice cream for dessert.

Wish I had some of the pictures of them dancing, but no mothers allowed at the dance so no pictures of them dancing... Here are a few I took prior to the dance and a couple at the YMCA just before it started.

and POSE!

One of my favorite pictures of them to date

Just being silly...

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T13:52:00.000-06:00

Sorry I took some liberties with the Union Pacific Train!

Oh Gnomeo...

2011-02-13T20:43:00.000-06:00

The kids wanted to go see "Gnomeo and Juliet" so they invited a friend and we all piled in the car to go see the movie!

First to McDonalds, or as I call it "Mickey D's", or as Katy calls it "Old McDonalds". This is a treat for them as we really don't go there much anymore.

Then to the movies...

They sure were hamming it up in front of all those movie advertisement signs in the lobby...

Love these glasses, Cool and Nerdy at the same time

I only have one question...

WHERE DO I SIGN UP!

It's been a very long day!

Camera Shy...

2011-02-12T12:03:00.000-06:00

Father-Daughter Dance...

A friend of ours and his daughter

"Freedom"

2011-02-10T20:47:00.000-06:00

The Owl Hat and so much more...

2011-02-09T19:39:00.000-06:00

Funny how you don't see something that is smack dab right in front of your eyes until you really take a good look at it. I see this everyday but missed this, how did I miss this?

We needed to take some pictures of this cool owl hat we bought from the Etsy shop we bought it from...and then something magical happened. I saw those eyes just sparkle but the one thing I noticed the most, was not that she had a great smile... but the most beautiful missing two front "teef" that I have ever seen. Yes, she now talks with this cute little lisp. She is "wif" me, at the store, she wants to buy "clof" at Hobby Lobby,she wants a "baf" before bedtime. It just makes me smile everytime I hear her talk. In fact I encourage it...it makes me snicker a bit, makes me feel warm and fuzzy like this hat.

She also likes to smirk, she smirks well, real well...see that glimmer in her eyes

that is the Oh,Oh look...she is up to something look, the better watch out look,

I love that look, just LOVE it!

She can also stick her tongue between the holes were her "teef" once were...

this is her favorite trick right now, it reminds me of a snake. I don't like snakes very much,

in fact not at all, they gross me out, they slither,Yikes!

Bye, See ya, I am out of here!

Bridges Crossed

2011-02-08T12:35:00.000-06:00

Diet Update...

2011-02-07T19:35:00.000-06:00

Well...it has gone smoothly so far, I have managed to get to the gym everyday, eat the nutritious foods I am supposed to,and have stayed away from Pepsi and sweets except for one chocolate chip-oatmeal cookie and one teaspoon of my favorite Blue Bunny "Bunny Tracks".

I have mostly have worked out on the treadmill going from 3.5mph to 4.1 mph walking and now have been able to jog at 5mph for at least 20 minutes of my 50 minute sessions.
I have also signed up for the The Idita-Walk my friend Donna told me about it. It is a lot of fun, and it feels like I am accomplishing something that I must complete. The strength training has been slow, and hope to add more of it to my regimen soon. I think it is the only way I will tone up these 47 year old arms.

The weight loss so far as been 4 pounds and 1 1/2" off of my waist. I can fit back into mysize 8's again and looking forward to my 6's! It gives me major motivation that it is coming off quickly rather than slowly! The next week will be more difficult...pounds come off slower the closer you get to your goal!

I will post more next Monday.

Take care of yourself, there is only one you!

Kristina

Changes...Starts February 2nd

2011-01-31T20:43:00.000-06:00

Today is the big day...
I hope you will do what you promised again...
I fell off of the wagon not you
Promises are important...
I really do like you alot, my partner, my nemesis at times, Flat Belly Diet.
Here's to eating right and making good choices...

Hopefully I will loose my extra 10lbs,11lbs, OK...13lbs and fit into all my great clothes
My swimsuits that I love,my great shorts, tops and the cute underthings you can wear when you don't have an extra 2 or 3 bags of flour around your waist.
I need to fit back into my 20+ pair of jeans that are sitting in my closet...
I remember you guys,fantasied and looked at you on a weekly basis...
True Religion,Kutz,Levi,Calvin,you were my best friends
I will be seeing you very soon.

To my workout place Blair YMCA, you are wonderful, really enjoy the people that work there; you have great machines and weights to give my body a new look, a look of overall fitness. You never failed me, you will always be there to run a or walk with...and the trainer man I loved you and disliked you all at the same time...you never let me give up! I will be seeing you in a month or so, I am ready for you this time.

So I just wanted to say goodbye to the foods that I loved, see you around sometime.

My Top Ten List
Tootsie Rolls, Yummy
Pepsi...to the 5 can a day sugar high, which always kept me going( you are already gone)
Baked Potato's piled high with sour cream and chives
Starbucks Venti Skinny Tai Chi Lattes
Coffee Cakes and Pies
Potato Chips with homemade Onion Dip
Sonic Cheeseburgers
Big Fred's Pizza
Cinnamon Toast or should I say Cinnamon Butter Toast
Peanut Butter Cookies

A song that I am going to play for my favorite foods and my 13 pounds,
I will miss you and Good....Bye!

I will post here once a week and let you know how it all goes,

Thanks Molli for working out with me, a workout partner makes it that much easier.

Wish me Luck!

Kristina

My Kids Favorite Three Letter Word

2011-01-26T12:10:00.000-06:00

WHY...

Why do you have wrinkles?

Where, I don't see them, then I looked in the mirror and sure as Aunt Molly was a bartender during the prohibition I saw them

Why are you old...

I am not OLD! Your older than me...Yes,older not OLD

Why do only Mommies have babies?

Go ask your Papa that question

Why can't I go to________________fill in the blank.

(Sally's, the mall, the ice rink, to McDonalds (Mickey D's), Baskin Robbins)

Why can't I have more____________fill in the blank.

(cake, cookies, allowance, movie passes, TV time)

Why do I have to give the dog a bath??

Do you still want the dog to sleep in your bed when it rolled in cow poop and she smells really bad.

Why do I need to take a bath?

Same answer as the one above, except I hope you don't roll in cow dodo.

Why do I need to go to bed?

Because, I need to go to bed.

Why do I have to stop playing the...IPad, Wii,DS ect...

Your brains are going to ooze out if you don't

Why do I need to clean my room?

Because, I said so...

Why are the stars so bright at our house?

We live in the country and the lights from the city, don't drowned them out

Why is the sun sleeping?

It never sleeps,it's in China now

Why do I dream?

So you can tell me about all the cool places you went to, and things that you wish for. Dreams really do come true,if you try hard enough and wish for it with all your might.

Promise? Promise!

"Why", they are learning everytime they ask a question, everytime they utter that word

(which lately has been in over-drive, it's driving me crazy, mad...insane, bonkers!

I am going to go to the looney bin if it does not stop!

Thanks I feel better now... I wonder what the next word will be?

Good Morning Sushine

2011-01-24T21:27:00.000-06:00

Amazing what beauty the Lord will bestow on you!

Cheers...

2011-01-23T18:57:00.001-06:00

May you always have walls for the winds,a roof for the rain,tea beside the fire,

laughter to cheer you, those you love near you

and all your heart might desire

~Irish Toast~

Thanks Diana!

Moo...

2011-01-21T20:29:00.000-06:00

I pass these cows everyday, never thought to much about it, except for today...

Why today, I am not to sure except they just looked so content, they were all grouped together staying low and warm, something was different

I sat and watched for awhile, drinking my Chai Tea Latte

Where they too cold? Hungry?

The farmer had a barn, the doors where open so they had shelter if they wanted it and there was a lot of hay in the feeders

Nope...

Just a happy family of Moo Moos,

Just Hangin' Out

Just...watching out for one another

and then it stood up only for a brief second

a cute little calf, born only minutes before

I missed the shot by a nanometer, a second, but I got to see something special.

A life lesson learned...on a cold snowy day

Take time to Stop for a minute...Watch and Listen

You may be surprised at what you may find!

Thanks for stopping by and a big hug to you all that stop by daily or weekly!

Leave me your blog address so I can do the same ...

Have a great day,

Kristina

10 Reasons to Celebrate Early Mornings...

2011-01-19T20:38:00.000-06:00

It's a new day..
Chai Tea Lattes at Starbucks with extra whip and extra hot.
Doughnuts from the Mom and Pop bakery down the road
Did I mention snuggling with my kids in the morning...even though they kick me when they fall back to sleep, and snore and just create a ruckus...
The look of my dogs staring back at me when I do finally open my eyes, waiting for that glorious moment for me to say OK...time to go outside
When they look at each other thinking...she should of been up an hour ago
Turning on the fireplace and sitting with my husband for a few moments, enjoying just he and I
The prettiest colours in the sky are at sunrise
Peace and Quiet
Knowing that I have another wonderful day to spend with the people that I love!

Katy...waiting for her Superhero!

2011-01-17T19:57:00.000-06:00

Sitting here waiting and waiting for my Superhero...

Where could he be?

Snow Day...

2011-01-10T23:12:00.000-06:00

What can you do with 13" of pure white Snow...Take pictures in it!

Thanks for stopping by. Leave a comment if you wish!

Island Getaway

2011-01-09T23:26:00.000-06:00

The beach, the sun, the sand and the little Tiki Bar just off the beaten path, what else can you ask for during a cold winter in Nebraska?

OK...besides peace and tranquility... but that is a given here.

Take off your shoes and squish your feet in the sand, listen to the waves as they hit the shore. This is our little peace of heaven, Sanibel Island Florida.

Sanibel Island has one of the Top 10 shelling and beaches in the world, all on this small dot of land and don't forget the smaller sister island, Captiva! There is just so much to do here or you can do nothing at all, but dance on the beach.

Katy is wearing Lil Blue Boo, see her Face Book page

You can partake in sailing, fishing, shelling, sea kayaking, birdwatching, walk the miles of white sandy beaches, play in the calm gulf waters or just lay on the beach with a frosty Pina Colada and people watch!

Some of our are favorite restaurants, The Blue Giraffe, The Timbers for fresh fish,
Ellington's for some great jazz music,the Lazy Flamingo for great peel and eat shrimp,
The Sanibel Steakhouse and our favorite lunch place Gramma Dots...the best Grouper sandwiches in the world, located at the Sanibel Marina. On Captiva try the Bubble Room or The Mucky Duck (check out their beach cam on their website) it's right on the beach and you can watch the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico.

For Dessert the best ice cream ever...Pinocchio's Italian Ice Cream their Sanibel Krunch is my favorite flavor for over 20 years!

Or try your luck with any of the guided tours at the Sanibel Marina for fishing, shelling or tours of the island! You may just find some pirate treasure!

One last thing...The Birdwatching is incredible don't forget to stop by Ding Darling NWR
it is a spectacular place to visit!

Snowy Egret- see his yellow slippers

Terns and Seagulls

Hope you all enjoyed my little slice of heaven!
Thanks for stopping by!

Happy New Years!

2011-01-08T12:55:00.000-06:00

May you all have prosperity, good luck and the love of the people that you hold dearest!

and my New Years Resolution to hang out in my "Jammie's" for a whole day at least once a month with my entire family, watching movies, eating popcorn, playing board games and just being silly!

Have a wonderful New Year!

The Churchill Family

For the Love of Hockey...

2010-12-30T21:44:00.000-06:00

When will it ever stop? Does it? I think it's the longest sport season of them all!
September through March games and then March through June practice! Ugh... I need a month off from the cold ice arena!

But then something magical happens, I can't take my eyes off him...

I get to watch this cute little guy skate

and skate some more

he really does love it!

Ice Dancer?

He skates so fast...

But what makes it all worth it, sitting in the cold rink, the driving 30 minutes in the snow and ice, is that Kita feels part of a team, a pack,and gang of hockey buddies that he can call his friends (and hit really hard and make them fall down on the ice and then get pushed down again and then it's his turn to get hit really hard and fall on the ice,and all in the name of good fun and hockey!)

I almost forgot the hot chocolate is really good, and the concession stand(my nemesis)

and Katy and Kita's favorite person at the rink, they call him

"The Candyman"!

Back to the ice rink now... Thanks for stopping by!

Leave a comment we love hearing what you think :)

Don't Forget to Laugh...

2010-12-28T16:28:00.001-06:00

Laughing is good for the soul. Sometimes just a reminder of seeing someone else laugh is all that you need! We go through our daily life sometimes without even a giggle. It will make you feel good I promise, go on...try it!

Beautiful Sunset...

2010-12-06T20:36:00.002-06:00

"December at Dusk"

Baking Cookies with the Boy!

2010-12-05T08:59:00.001-06:00

Raspberry Almond Thumbprint Cookies

This was the very first time I let my 7 year old boy,
make cookies all by himself,
( I had to get them out of the oven for him, but that's was it)

I borrowed the recipe from The Pioneer Woman from her,

Tasty Chef Cooking site. They looked so good we had to try them!

Ingredients

1 cup Butter(just a tad softened)

2/3 cup Sugar

2 cups Flour

1/2 tsp. Almond or Vanilla Extract

Raspberry Jelly
(NO EGGS)

Icing

1 cup Powdered Sugar

1 Tablespoon Water

Pre-heat Oven at 350 degrees
Bake for 14-17 minutes

2 sticks butter(1cup)

He learned measurements and fractions during this

little cooking escapade too!

2/3 cup sugar

Cream butter and sugar together

1/2 tsp Almond extract

2 Cups Flour and then mix well, will be slightly dry

Roll dough into a ping pong sized ball

Place ball on cookie sheet we have silicone pan liners but parchment paper would do

well also,then put a thumbprint in the middle of the cookie

Kita's favorite part!

add Raspberry jelly just enough to fill thumb print

or your favorite fruit spread, but then you would have to call them Blueberry or Orange,

or Strawberry, or Jalapeno Thumb Print Cookies

A little silliness, he could not pass up this opportunity

Right back at you Nikita!

This is what they should look like just before they hit the oven

Yum...drool... I see five extra pounds on my thighs this Holiday season

Place them in the oven, no, not the boy this is not

"Hansel and Gretel"

gently in the oven, be careful because boys have a

tendency to throw, push and shove things

in just a little to hard!

Take them out of the oven in about 14-17 minutes

and let them cool just a bit

Then drizzle icing over the top of them

His first ever cookies made all by himself, he is so proud.

Have a try they are so yummy and easy to make!

Time Flies...

2010-11-21T17:10:00.000-06:00

I have been so busy these last seven weeks, I just have not blogged too much.
I have been to Florida, Michigan, Wisconsin, Iowa, and Texas(twice).
We have renewed some old friendships, mourned some old friendships and made some new ones. We have played and laughed, felt sorrow and pain, and are stronger now because of it.
Life...sometimes it's easy and sometimes it's not...but an adventure it will always be!

A few things I have done:

Photography
bubble wrapping china
judging on a panel of three judges at our ASCA National Conformation Finals
helping a friend out, with her childs clothing booth in Texas, and going on Katy's and I first "Girls Only Trip"
getting contributions to the "Blair Back Program" for children that don't get or have limited supplies of food during the weekends when they are not in school

Girl Scouts,Hockey and Figure Skating

This all being on top of just being Mom and a Wife to my fantastic family...
here are some photos from these last six weeks...

Hopefully I will get back to a regular blogging schedule soon!

Thanks for stopping by!

Kristina

Penelope...

2010-11-07T12:51:00.000-06:00

Penelope Ann Churchill
aka

WTCH. Makita-Starswept Pen-N-Ink,DNA-VP

She has had so many names through out her eight years... (and still counting)

"Penelope Ann Cattle Chewin' Churchill" when she was working cattle at the Sims house
"No,No Nellie" when she was just bad to the bone
"Penelope Pit Stop" just because
"Psycho Penelope" she is a little strange and quirky at times
"Poor, Poor Pitiful Penelope" when she give's you that look of sadness

But she will always be my "Nellie Bellie" she had my heart from the minute she was born. At about 4 1/2 months she had an accident, that pretty much put and end to her conformation show career but started the beginning of our deepening bond. I stayed with her all during surgery,brought her home and cared for her until she was able to put weight on her leg, and I have been her rock, and she has been my best buddy ever since. I am never alone, during the day she follows me from room to room, keeping an close eye on my whereabouts. She is my keeper until bedtime... then she is in Katy's room watching over her, it's her job!

After I come home from a trip is a double whammy, first, big kisses from my two kids and then kisses from Nellie too.(she pretty much waits in line, until it's her turn) You can be pretty sure when you walk in, she will jump up and plant one on your lips too. How I will miss that when she gets to old to jump.

She is the toy monger...she has at least fifty toys under the bed and she guards them with her life, the toys are her babies, just like the litter of new born kittens she took care of for three weeks when the mother abandon them. I wonder if that is why now she is so obsessed with Kitties! Toys are her second favorite things in life, with her family being first! (Well most of the time...)

She is the "doggie nanny" to my children, watches them,herds them away from trouble, sleeps with Katy and is just the go to dog, she loves her kids! She is my heart dog...from two generations of dogs that I have bred, I see her great-dam and dam in her at every turn. The eyes of "Fashion" and the attitude of "Trouble". I see the all knowing look and the wisdom and the scared little puppy in her eyes to, after her accident things changed forever for her, some for the better and some for the worse.

She has always had trouble getting along with the other Aussies never really understanding that she was a dog and not a person...she has been the lone wolf, until we added a Whippet to our household, now she can be and act like a dog at least like a "Whippet", once again! She is dependable, loving, silly and quirky,kitty loving dog that I will adore forever. Love you "Nellie Bellie"!

Here are some recent pictures of "Nells Bells" yes, one more name that I just remembered calling her:

The all knowing look of love

The Contemplating Look

Sleeping the day away under my desk

Keeping a eye on the kids

The Toy Protector

Watching for Kitty's

Hanging out on the back porch

Hope you enjoyed the pictures of Nellie,please leave a comment below if you do!

Thanks for stopping by!

Halloween 2010 Part Two -Trick or Treat

2010-11-01T10:52:00.000-05:00

HALLOWEEN 2010

Great times with Friends and Family

Grandpa and the kids

The Wheeler Girls and Katy

Wonders (woman) never cease

Harry and his mean Cowboy look...

Katy and Kita

Me and the Kids

The Kies and Churchill Family kids

Trick or Treat
Charlie in his Ninja costume

Helloooo....

Queen of the Nile
(Sally)

Harry, check'n out is Loot

Where's Santa? I see an elf....

Hallowen 2010 Part One- Costumes

2010-10-31T14:07:00.000-05:00

Our Wonder Girl

It's funny how my daughter Katy still chooses sweet, on the right-side of the law costumes.

Carefree innocent ones, ones that...

Don't Scare me to death,

Ones I will not have nightmares about,

The ones I will look at pictures at 20 years from now and not pee my pants....

A sweet butterfly at 3

A good Witch at 4

A Hippie girl at 5

and now Wonder Woman at 6

Boys have a want or will to go with, some blood and gore, evil beings

or just bizzarro( is that a word?) combination of all three things.

Why do are sweet boys need to be so evilish(new word), bloody and scary at Halloween?

Race Car driver at 4

Superman at 5

Gangsta at 6

Evil Jester at 7

See how the progression goes...

Oh well these are the costumes for this year...

Wonder Woman's outfit was made by BeBe Gear, check out her shop!

(boots and cape I already had)

and Kita's was just a store bought one that he had to have!!!

Have a Happy Halloween!

Tough

able to deflect bullets

Agile and Fast

Just cute

Love how the cape blows in the air!

Defender of the Right

Kita's Costume
Kita trying to scare the pants off me! I don't like masks of any kind!
Scary
Scarier

Casting some evil spell on me...Yikes

Why is he chasing me?
Gotta Run!

The Evil Jester meets his Dad
Twins?
They look a lot alike, don't they?

Here Kitty, Kitty

2010-10-28T20:55:00.000-05:00

Meet Paloma, the sweetest kitty you will ever meet...

On the watch for unsuspecting mouses...

and photographers...

pretending that I am not there, even though the camera is 3 feet from her...

gazing into the distance...and then

I think she has had enough of me and my camera!

That's all for now...

Old Friends Back Together...

2010-10-27T09:22:00.000-05:00

Indy at almost 12 years old was here for a sleep over last night...Nikita was so excited about this! His old sleeping buddy back for a night or two!
She was pretty happy about it too!

Happy 7th Birthday Kita...Part One

2010-10-15T22:30:00.000-05:00

Nikita

You have the "bestest" smile

Wow, you are seven years old, how time flys. I remember the scared little boy you were when we first met you at the orphanage in Siberia. We had to bribe you with Skittles candy for you to come over and sit with us, and then it was for just for a very short while. Funny how that candy is still one of your favorites, the one you always pick first. Just so you know, that was your Papa's (Dad) smart thinking...he thought those would be the best candies to bring over and he knew you would love them. How he knew I don't know, but you did!

When we brought you back to the hotel the first day, we walked you down to the city square, where you were just tickled "blue" to chase those pigeons around all afternoon, the horse ride was not one of your favorites...what were we thinking putting you up on a horse the first day you were actually put in our hands...I think we were just so excited about getting you, and wanted you to see all the things you missed that we went a little overboard. Sorry for that!

Some other things I willalways remember. How much you liked spaghetti and pizza, it was everywhere, the floor,chair, clothes all over your face, you were practically orange...but what a great time you had sucking the spaghetti up and drinking through that funky contraption called a "straw". I remember the first car ride...you were so scared, you clutched onto "Papa" and would not let go and when you looked out the windows of the orphanage you would say "Sabaka", which meant dog...and how excited your Papa was when you cried when he left, instead of crying when your caregiver did. You were finally attached to him, and he had a son of his very own, you... my sweet boy!

Today I see a young boy, with so much hope in his eyes, the love of life, family and friends, and the compassion for all human beings and the creatures you continue to bring home. (Spiders,snakes moths, butterfly's,bunnies,caterpillars and whatever else you can catch on a given day...please no more snakes!) Nikita, you are the shining light in our house, the one that is so willing to share, you give love to all of those around you, the animal lover, the kind hearted-sweet natured boy, the brave one, the one who will try anything once, even yucky spinach and squash. You are the tree climber, the baseball player, and the best friend to everyone, the one that always has a smiley face at the end of the day. I am so glad that we are the ones that get to see it!

We love you so very much... Thank you for being part of our lives, the day the judge said yes...was one of the best days in our lives ever! You have turned into quite the young man and we enjoy watching you grow and learn everyday.

Love you with all our hearts,

Happy 7th Birthday

Mama and Papa

(Mom and Dad)

Kita's Birthday Party with Family Part ll

2010-10-15T22:23:00.010-05:00

HAPPY 7th BIRTHDAY KITA

What a great time we all had at Kita's 7th B-Day party. Our family started the day with Kita's favorite breakfast eggs,bacon and toast and then after school we had dinner which consisted of Pizza. His favorite food ever!

A Daisy BeBe Gun

but first gun saftey classes from Dad

Scott and the kids

A proud Dad with his son

Cake anyone?

Birthday Bokeh!

Love you Kita,

Dad and Mom

Tooth Be Gone...

2010-10-12T20:30:00.000-05:00

Yes, the tooth was bothersome, down right annoying. Katy would flick it back and forth with her tongue, day in and day out, at the restaurant, watching TV, during soccer practice it was just gross!

Until today...when I told her it was time... for that blasted tooth to come out. She was so worried, but told me she would try very hard to get it out. I promised not to pull it, but she really did have to try...She did it all by herself. Wow...Katy you are getting to be a brave girl!

After a bath we decided she would try to get the tooth out

She kept on looking in the magnifying mirror

flicking it with her tongue

Just a few more wiggles and out came the tooth

Finally,it came out!

Now we must be silly and stick are tongue in the

hole, where the tooth was...

and act funny

and so darn cute too!

Love you,Katy!

The Thing about Katy Is...

2010-10-11T20:22:00.000-05:00

She just loves to laugh and giggle... at everything, even at herself,

she has this belly laugh that is so contagious, even the most stuffy,

no fun,lack luster individual will succumb to it...

One of the best qualities she has...

Love my "Giggle Girl"...

Mom

Donna Boucher Photography Workshop

2010-10-07T11:58:00.000-05:00

I had such a great time at Donna Boucher Photography workshop this last weekend. She is a lovely,fun and talk about photography skills woman. I learned so much about photography in the eight (short, seemed that way)hours we were with her. Wish I could go back tomorrow and just soak in all her knowledge of natural light and compostion.
Please stop by her site and see her just amazing photography!

Here are some shots I took at the workshop...

and one picture on my way home, using the skills she gave me

We love comments, please leave one

THANKS!

Hint of Fall

2010-10-03T17:51:00.000-05:00

There is a chill in the air every morning when I wake up...cold? No, just chilly. This is when the leaves start to fall gently from the tree's, the sun comes up later and goes down earlier. The hint that something is changing...the flowers have their last hurrahs,the birds are not so vocal at 5:00 am,the kids sleep in just a little later because Mr. Sunshine is not so sparkly anymore and I get to take some really pretty pictures of the changing of the season, to fall.

It's not my favorite time of the year, but I welcome the migration of new life...birds and butterflies flying overhead, the thrill my children get when they hear the honking of the geese ,the smell of the last alfalfa cut of the year and the slow pace of the tractors going from field to field to collect their harvests from the fields which are no longer green but have a golden glow now.

Yes, Fall is drawing near, I can see the slow changing of the trees from a deep green to an almost lime-green with bits of maroon, gold,brown and yellows which are dotting the landscape now, it is just so beautiful.

Soon the harsh reality will come and another season will be upon us, but for now lets just enjoy the season while it last, a few warm days and some great sitting by the fire nights.

I love the sound of the owls hooting, the coyotes yipping back and forth to each other and the fire just a crackling. I love those nights, just watching the flames of the fire dance in my children's eyes, while the wait for the first marshmellow to be done just right, so they can make their very first S'more of the season.

Then, Fall throws a curve at you,one last burst of flower power until spring arrives...

and one last beautiful Monarch Butterfly on it's way to a warmer climate,

awaiting spring to return to the midwest next year.

Welcome Fall, may it be an enjoyable one.

The "Big" First Game...

2010-09-30T17:52:00.000-05:00

Wow...the "First day of the rest of his Life", "The Big Day", "The Day Like No Other" well not really but this is a "Big One" in his young life.The first game, he has been talking about it for one week, about seven days, about 168 hours, non-stop chattering, seems like years, maybe even decades...but it's finally here!

The game was so much fun to watch and Kita and his teammates all did so well...Enjoy the pictures...and Go Sack Monsters!!!

The 1st Team Huddle

The 1st Play

The 1st Defensive Play

The 1st Trash Talk,

I mean words of encouragement

The First 1st Down

The 1st Catch

The 1st Sack

The First Catch for this one to

Kita's 1st Big Play

The "Sack Monsters" 1st Win and 1st Game

THE UNDEFEATED TEAM

(well they only played once so they had a 50/50 chance)

What a game, Kita...

We are so proud of you!!!

Congrats to the coaches as well, you are the best!

Wordless Wednesday...

2010-09-29T09:46:00.001-05:00

I need a caption
Hint...they are not brother and sisters

Lisa Leonard...silver jewelry

2010-09-25T18:40:00.001-05:00

Oh.. What a find I have for you...mouth watering, unique,stunning gotta have it...

I saw this and I just knew I would need to order one soon...

Mother's Day, Christmas, Anniversary,

Baby Gift,Christening you can't go wrong...

for any reason...

Maybe just because it's Monday or any other day of the week

Look how good it looks and lays on your wrist...

but wait...

look here...

Just what a Dad would want...

This is what the kids are getting Scott for Christmas

Scott you did not read this...

You forgot, that's easy to do, right?

Please go to Lisa Leonard's Designs

so much to choose from

Baby's first spoon,cream freshwater pearl necklaces, charms key chains

All so fun and whimsical

Please check her online store out!

We love comments, please leave one, and I will do the same....

Kristina

NFL...here we come

2010-09-22T09:39:00.000-05:00

The A-Team

Okay...it wasn't quite the NFL or even the United States Football League
Omaha Night Hawks but it was darn close!
My son is trying out for a position today what will he play...

But, first there is some stretching and flexing to do; no injuries on this team

Will he be a:

Punter or Kicker- no way just can't really kick that ball well enough

Defensive end, or Line backer a little to small, not enough weight, and as a mother I could not watch him hit or be hit so often

Quarter Back...he has a good arm,swift on his feet, and a thinker...still there must be a better position for him... Yes a ....

Running Back/Receiver is what he will be: fast, so very fast, he has wheels, hot wheels,he can catch the ball on the fly and still know where everyone is... including the other team. He could be the one that scores all the touch downs, the one that would run the ball in for an 85 yard touch-down, "The Man", that's what they would call him...
That's my boy...there, right there, in the thick of things... grabbing footballs from mid-air...

Runs like the Wind

Faster than a locomotive

Light on his feet...he walks on air

Then reality hits... it's flag football there is no hitting, I don't even think the football field is 85 yards maybe 50...Are there even assigned positions? This is not the beginning of the rest of his life? His career? Oh and by the way... Do they have to wear those funny looking skirts? My son does not wear dresses or skirts, Ok...maybe flags but no skirts...red is a better looking color on him to coach...

This is a Flag

Friday is catching skill drills, and then we will find out what position he will play.
No, it really doesn't matter which one they assign to him,but if I was his coach I know where this boy with legs like hot wheels should play,
and coach where do you want me to drop off that fresh peach pie to you!(LOL)

Kita, you are amazing and I am glad that you are having the time of your life, we can't wait until your game on Saturday. Win or Lose we will always be cheering you on! M and D

Hope you enjoy the pictures and commentary, leave a comment and let us know!
Thanks,Kristina

My Monday-Super Girl takes Flight

2010-09-20T20:53:00.000-05:00

As I was flying around this morning (that's what Super Girls do),and I was thinking of all the things I do, (I don't know how much I would get done ,if I worked away from home),
it was staggering...so I thought I would write it all down... (so Fly Boy can see later, so when he asks me, what did you do this week, I have an written accounting,proof...)

I am sure your list has as many if not more...here are my accomplishments for the day

Woke up late at 7:05 am, I was like a speeding bullet,changing clothes throwing my two kids instant oatmeal, having them brush their teeth and getting them on the bus by 7:27am.
Threw my first load of laundry in 7:30am
Went to my e-mail and answer 30 e-mails,work on two giveaways for my friends FB pages ,post, and write my husband a little note. He flies for US Airways so, I always try to leave him a I miss you note everyday! 8:23am
Edit pictures for my blog post for a later date 9:17am
Throw clothes into dryer, and start another load of clothes 9:23am
Feed the dogs, yes... no big deal until you realize I have 6 dogs and they act like they have not ate in days...maybe even weeks(picture in your mind a shark eating frenzy) 9:37am
Package up fabric for a friend so she can make some doll dresses for me 10:00am
Getting ready to pull out of my driveway to leave for the USPS, shutting the garage door and the cat had gotten caught in the garage door between the door and the frame. Again...I can leap tall buildings in a single bounce, but trying to get on top of the garage door(I am not that young anymore) and free a cat that has all it's nails out, and is one pissed customer is not easy...she is fine... just scared to death. (Bet, Paloma will never ever sleep there again) 10:20am
Dropped package at USPS 10:33am
Stopped at McDonald's to get a large Coke, need some caffeine 11:51am
Back on the computer to make reservations for a Photography seminar I am going to in Wisconsin in two weeks. Boy the hotels are expensive up there! I can now check this off of my to do list for the month 12:23pm
I am only 1/3 of the way through my day! 12:24pm
Dusting my office, bedroom and cleaning the kitchen 1:00pm
Odds and ends...cleaning up poop from the backyard,playing a little ball with the dogs, a phone call here and there (Love you Fly Boy) vacuumed, fold the one load of clothes and dry the others 2:46pm
One hour of a good book...need some down time 3:50
Kids are getting off bus...3:56
Water the plants 4:02
Help with the kids homework 4:30pm
Dinner 5:00pm
The rest of the day soccer and flag football practice, showers for the kids, hugs,cuddles and kisses to my kids and bedtime 8:38pm

Wow...just thinking I am going to get up and do this all again tomorrow Oh...and I forgot to eat for the entire day until now, except for a apple that I threw in my purse on the way to Soccer and I forgot

the last of the clothes in the dryer
forgot to feed the cats
forgot to put the kids clothes out for tomorrow morning

21.   Goodnight to my snuggle bunnies, Scott miss you, (when are you coming home?)...
        Forgot to turn off the lights....

        -Kristina-

Odds and Ends... Part II

2010-09-19T22:16:00.001-05:00

Photos from July that I just could not pass up...

Fourth of July 2010
We always try to get one of all the grandkids for the grand-parents every year

He's got the whole world in his hands...
Kita blowing bubbles with his hands
One of my favorite pictures

My Whippet in her Afghan Costume
HaHahHa

Fly Ball
The wait was just killing us...but he did catch it!

Me and Kyle's playing
Catch Me If You Can

Hope you enjoy the pictures, thanks for stopping by
We love comments...

Odds and Ends Part I...

2010-09-18T13:41:00.001-05:00

Some pictures... from this past summer

In the shower...Sorry Kita!
Love him, but he just hates Mom taking pictures of him, so I did the sneaky thing
got him while he was taking a shower

Kita and Nolan at Little League
One of Kita's best pals on the field

Just being Silly
One of my all time favorites, honking her Dad's nose
She thought it was so funny,see that laugh!

Getting ready for the Big Nebraska-Washington game this week
She loves to pose...like I need to tell you all that

Kita loves his dogs and the mud

More coming from July and August
Thanks for stopping by
We Love comments....
Please share you thoughts with us!

She made me do it!

2010-09-15T19:29:00.000-05:00

The Ring

I saw this post on The Pioneer Woman in the home and garden section of her blog and had to have this ring.

It is beautimus,extraordinary and just plain fun.

Is beautimus a word? I don't care, I like the way it sounds.

So here is a picture of the BEAUUUUTIMUS Ring.

Pearls, Turquoise, amethyst all wrapped up in one ring!

Gotta Love it...adore it, show all my friends, be the envy of all ring wearers.

It should be here soon...

Gotta go check my mailbox...

Or is the cute UPS man going to stop by, and bring my Beautimus ring to me?

Here is the link to check it out Ollipop-Jewelry, so glad you blogged about this Pioneer Woman...

Can't wait to put this on my finger!

Gotta go check now, right now! BYE!

It's here I can't believe it, and no the UPS man did not deliver it!

Best Friends

2010-09-14T10:24:00.001-05:00

What do these two words "Best Friend" mean to you Katy?

Well my daughter and I had this conversation today, and this is what came of it.

They are fun
You both like the same things; soccer,skating,the monkey bars, boys...Boys, I said well yes, I am going to marry Tyler, he is dreamy and Sally well...she is going to marry Nikita. This way we are one big happy family.
We both like to play outdoors and play with snakes,frogs and catch butterflies...
They like to be with you
They don't fight with you a lot...well sometimes, Sally and I fight, but that's OK...we always make up. I wish she was my sister!
I have more than one best friend, I really like Jamie too, but I don't see her too much,she is at another school, I miss her... (eyes looking far in the distance) Katy,we will call her soon, promise!
Mom, how come Sally likes to camp and I don't? We never took you camping, would you like too, that would be cool! You don't have to like everything Sally does, just because you are friends. Really... yep! That's soooo... cool! I don't want to go camping then. I just started to giggle!

I love my daughter, she is good hearted, a free spirit, a friend to all, a fierce competitor,but also good winner or loser and someone who I could easily call my best friend!

Love you Kat!

Here are also some pictures of Sally and Katy this weekend in a mini-photo shoot wearing

Lil Blue Boo

clothing

A photo of the two of them is also on LBB's blog!

Who was your best friend in elementary school?
Mine was, Cheryl W. and Jill O.

The Soccer Saga continues...

2010-09-11T20:47:00.000-05:00

The Game of Soccer...Loving it!

Katy, had her first soccer game today. I was so happy they she played well, no, not a single goal but my baby sure did try hard. She ran fast, encouraged her teammates and was instrumental in passing the ball... so they could get goals (at least that is what I am going to believe!) Teamwork...that is what its all about.

I also never realized how fast she was, or how much balance she has. This must be from the hours of figure skating the last 3 years, and did I mention muscles...lots of them. Did I tell you how she runs very fast? Oh, yes first paragraph, runs very fast!

Here are some pictures of Katy and her team mates, in their very first game.

Oops... I forgot, the "Soccer Mom" thing, still weighing in on that but so far so good!
No blood shed yet or chairs being thrown! (LOL)

The First kick...

Dribble

The other team her best friend is on...

First team pow-wow

The Game begins...

Run Katy...

A talk between competitors and best friends
Wonder what they are saying to each other...

Wow...she tripped me, or did I just fall over my own two feet

Love this game...

My Katy's very first game..done did,

never will their be another first!

Game One

The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein

2010-09-08T08:53:00.000-05:00

Katy and her doll,"Tatiana from" Apple Tree House

This is one of Katy's favorite books.

Its all about a tree that gives her whole heart and soul to a young boy

and how she still keeps on giving him love and support through out is adult life.

It makes you think how much you can really give!

It is a sad and happy book at the same time.

(it still makes me cry)

Go to your local library and check it out, or go see it at your local

bookstores!

It will be a winner for sure!

Five Stars *****

1* lowest rating

5 stars highest rating

A Blank Canvas...

2010-09-06T07:52:00.000-05:00

"Art is like a child, they both start out with a blank canvas

It's what you do with them, that makes them special"author CCS

Kita and Katy

could not believe Mom said, go to it.

Do whatever you want...

and they did...

and some more...

drying,

and

"Snack Time"

Drying a second time

But surprises in life always happen ...

look closely... footprints, flowers and hearts

are in this painting too

Did you see them in the very first photograph,

sometimes all you need to do is stop and look...

What a fun time we had!

Thanks to

Stephanie Corfee ARtist

Permission to Make a Colorful Mess

and

Lil Blue Boo

for the inspiration on becoming a little bit crafty!

-kristina-

We Love comments, please share your thoughts below!

Thanks for stopping by!

My "Lil Fashionista Custom" Tile Necklace

2010-09-05T08:08:00.001-05:00

Wow, let me count the ways on how much I love this.

So much sweetness, fun and so... hip!

I will be adding this on my charm bracelet, I am making for Katy.

Thank you to

B.B. Bellezza Handcrafted Jewelry

it is fantastic!

Please stop by her shop

and see all

the wonderful and unique things she has to offer!

Thanks to

Stephanie Corfee ARtist

for the beautiful drawing of Katy,

we will always cherish it!

Please comment below and thanks for looking!

Our Trip to the Doctor...

2010-09-04T14:31:00.000-05:00

We all know how it is to feel sick.

Well, Katy came home from school and just passed out on the couch with her doll!

Crashed out

This is not like Katy. She is always on the go, busy, creative, always having to do something even if it is just coloring on her favorite "Fake Fur" rug.

So, something worried me when she was still fast asleep 30 minutes later.

She did not want to wake up, in fact she tried to go right back to sleep,

that is when I noticed how hot she was.

I grabbed the thermometer and took her temperature it was 103.6.
We were heading out the door when Katy went bolting into the house again
returning of few seconds later with "Miss Tatiana" in hand.

Off to the Doctors we went!

Katy is now in the car, trying to be brave for her doll.

She told her, she would not get a shot,and everything will be alright and she might have to take some yucky medicine and there was no need to cry.

The conversation in the car

Katy: Is the medicine going to taste really bad, Mom?

Me: I will make sure we get Cherry Flavor from the medicine guy

Katy: The Medicine doctor?
Me: No, the Pharmacist
Katy: The Farmer Kiss

Me: I just started to laugh, then giggle...

We then waited in the waiting room for a while(seemed like hours)

as she clutched her doll and went back to sleep, then they called her name

We got weighed and measured and had are temperature taken AGAIN and then waited for the doctor. Kita was trying to make Katy laugh and feel better.

He is such a great kid!

Then Doctor Amy came in (we really like Dr. Amy!) and checked her heart, lungs, eyes and ears and asked her funny questions.
Dr. Amy: Did you know I have a pink cow!
What color is the sky?

Katy: The sky looks like rainbow sherbet, it's my favorite

Mom, cows aren't pink?

Silly Doctor...

The doctor looked at her and said no shots, just some medicine,

Katy you have strep throat.

Katy said to the Dr. Amy: Mom is taking me to the "Medicine Doctor" and then to the "Farmers Kiss" next and then to Wendy's

we all just laughed...

We then left Dr. Amy's and everyone had Frosty's!

and yes Katy... the sky does look like Rainbow Sherbert...

Love you!

Bitty Bags...

2010-09-03T17:44:00.001-05:00

Tatiana, came with one outfit and a pair of cute undies,

and we needed to buy a few more outfits and accessories,

First we bought the cutest Ladybug bag made by

Bitty Bags

I saw this and knew we would have to get this one

This is the front view,
the button is such a treat

Here is a closer look...aah so cute...

Back view...look at the dots...

But the most surprising is the inside...

Oh, my....

Look at the cute Ladybugs,

the white little flowers that yellow background

Yummy, wonderful and fun!

To make it all complete the cutest little dress from

Lil Blue Boo

and our model from

Apple Tree House

Gotta love em' dolls, dresses and purses
what else could a girl want...
Well maybe, a Happy Ever After with her Prince Charming!

The Last of Summer...

2010-08-30T14:05:00.001-05:00

The boys heading out to fish.

We went out the lake the past weekend and what a glorious day it was.

We went with our friends the Kies and brought along our neighbors son, Sam!

A good day was had by all.

Fishing, tubing, swimming,rafting, and a little too much sun-bathing and a little bit of mud throwing turned into so much fun!

Hope you enjoy the pictures,

and don't forget to do one more fun summer activity before

it starts turning cold!

PS...I was wrong, the two boat idea was a fabulous one!

"10" She only need the braids (LOL)

Sally "The Breck Girl"

The Boys just back from tubing!

There is a little beast in all boys

Harry, my friends son, Just gotta love him

Silly Kids

Take That

Towels as Kites

Those boys think these girls are going to share with them!
Whose boys are they anyways!
Check out the boys looks!

Bring'N Down the House

Friends to the end

Charlie is just a little sun-burned!
Naughty mother!

Katy

Mud Fight

Sally

Thanks for stopping by, we love comments!

Busy Weekend for two girls...

2010-08-29T14:20:00.002-05:00

Katy had to bring her doll, "Tatiana" everywhere this weekend.
We love her by the way... Thanks Debra from Apple Tree House for
Katy's new best friend!

We went to the lake, she sunbathed,

Katy went tubing, Tatiana went tubing

This picture almost gave me an heart attack! (LOL)

Sunday was the Farmers Market and Playground

Guess What? Yup she went too!

They went, sliding,swinging,rock climbing

and were on the look out for other friends.

I Spy...new friends!

Rock climbing ws just OK!

Love to Swing...

and slide!

Listened to music and bought flowers at the Farmers Market

Flowers for Mom!

What a great weekend!

Family Pictures of Boating on Monday!

Love These Kids Shoes...Gotta Flurt

2010-08-26T18:59:00.000-05:00

Gotta Flurt Shoes

What great shoes! I find it hard to find shoes that keep up with Katy's Funky side!

But, I don't need to look any further....

What A Pair

has our favorite brand of shoes

Gotta Flurt!

They are reasonably priced, packaged with a very cute box and are on

the Fab side.

Go check them out!

You will love them to!
rated*****'s
5 stars highest - 1 star lowest

"Tatiana", Katy's New Doll

2010-08-23T20:28:00.001-05:00

I have been spying Apple Tree House dolls for a while know, just waiting for the right doll to come along for Katy! Well she is here...she has the most beautiful face and eyes, she reminds me of my girl!

We named her Tatiana a Russian name which means (Fairy Queen of the Highest Beauty)

we think it fits her so well. Katy has a few words that describe her best:

pretty eyed
gorgeous hair
happy
lovable
soft

Thank you Debra for the most wonderful doll in the world. Here are a few pictures of her please take a moment to look at her dolls they are just scrumptious!
Check the link below!

Apple Tree House

She loved her from the first moment she saw her

Told her she had beautiful hair and eyes like her

Getting to know her

Telling her she has a new home and "Mommie" now

Fell fast asleep, well 9:00pm she could not stop talking to her

She brought her to our bed at 5am, this is how I saw them first thing this morning

Katy left for school, and first things first...she had to start looking for new clothes.
That "Barbie" has way to many!
Maybe Lil Blue Boo will have some, but to know avail.
She will keep looking!

She was telling all the Mickey D kids how things were going to run now.
I don't think they were buying it!
She wondered...when is Katy coming home?

As always 4pm on the dot,
first things first,
giving Tatiana a big hug!

A quote from "Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer"

"A doll is not truly loved until it is loved by a child"

SHE IS LOVED!

A Few of my Favorite Pictures This Summer...Part 1

2010-08-20T11:47:00.000-05:00

Love summer..hate to see it end! Here are a few of my favorite pictures this summer.

Part 2 to follow in a day or two!

Dog Days of Summer...

2010-08-17T22:07:00.000-05:00

The Blair Pool was officially closed on Thursday, but they saved one last swim for

"The Dogs"

The "Jeanette Hunt" Blair Animal Shelter
all proceeds to benefit the shelter

Trina

"Gabbie"

Trina's Front Dive

Katy and Trina on the board!

Trina and Gabbie
and
Scott and Kita

The ever watching eye of
a Life Guard
"Blairwatch" kinda like" Baywatch"

We all had a blast, the 2 and 4 legged ones!

We have a "New" Kindergartner and 1st Grader...

2010-08-15T09:23:00.000-05:00

We were busy here at Churchill family digs on Wednesday and Friday. Kita and Katy had orientation for Kindergarten and 1st grade and then school started on Friday. Here are some pictures of their day...it all went very well.

Wednesday

Kita was showing Katy the way to school, he was
very sweet, showing her the ropes

Kita was like Been there, done that

I love this picture, just so sweet and telling
without saying a word

Again, Kita showing her were everything is

Had to read Dad a book!

One of my fave's of the day

So happy to be a 1st grader

Katy and a friend

Friday

So excited...

The posing of the mandatory picture

Katy and Me

Kita's Desk

The 1st Grade Room

His desk row

Surprise and Embarrassment, that Mom and Dad are there

The Cool Chick

A Day I Will Never Forget...

2010-08-13T11:09:00.002-05:00

This is the day I have been longing for, a day not like any other, a day that I will never forget...

Both kids, yes both, count them... One... Two, go to full time school!

Will I miss them... of course, will I have a longing and tugging at my heart, yes, both
of my babies will be flying the coop...and I will think of the song Ain't No Sunshine

When they get on the big yellow bus:

as tears flow (need tissues now)

and I am waving at them, running after the bus...OK you get the picture.
Lets get back to the song:

Just substitute "They" for (She) and "They'll for (She'll), ect... and we are good to go!

I am now thinking of all the things I can do:

go to the store, without buying extra goodies, that they sneak into my cart
go shopping at my favorite stores and try on anything I want for as long as I want
eat lunch in peace, without Scooby Doo and the Rescue Rangers
go to Victoria Secret without my son feeling up the padded bras (he's 6) with his eyes popping out of his sockets
exist without whining,fighting or just plain... it's not fair she/he gets fill in the blank and not me
get the house cleaning done in half the time so I can watch my favorite soap Y&R(yes I still watch this soap) and not have to TiVo it and watch it at 11pm

Then reality will hit, and I will miss the little buggers,maybe go to school for their lunchtime and get to the bus stop early, so I have the best spot, so I can spy them the minute they get off that yellow contraption , and I can wrap my arms around my little ones, and skip merrily to my car...realizing I have found true peace... at least the peace that comes between 8am and 3pm M-F (LOL)

Sunday their stories of the "First Day a School"

Miss The Friend You Used To Be

2010-08-12T06:32:00.001-05:00

This is my submission to the Mama Kats Writer Workshop this week: Love all your prompts! If you want to join go to:Mama Kats Losin It! and then to The Writers Workshop on her blog page!

I Miss the Friend You Used to Be...
but looking back it is better for me

I miss the fun we use to have
The way we would laugh and cry
Bitch and Moan
Even the way we fought

The way we would compete
Even when one of us lost
In the end we would both win
We were there for each other
No matter the cost

The late night calls
When one of us was down
And the whispers and the giggles
When we thought no one was around

The marriages,the births
The triumphs and sorrows
The hint that are friendship
Maybe lost in the tomorrows

How did our friendship change so quick
because of time... or space
Unable to forgive or forget
Will it be something that I will live to regret?

Now I just miss being friends
The way it used to be
Oh,the fun and the memories
They are just that
A friendship tossed to the wind
Without even a look back

I sure do miss the Friend You Used To Be
But in the end it was
something that was better for me

I am Free to Be,
Just Me...
never again will there be
a you and me

-Kristina-

Learning to Dive..

2010-08-11T07:43:00.000-05:00

Do you remember your first attempt at a real dive?

Well, watching my daughter Katy, attempting them, gave me a stomach pain!

Belly flop after Belly flop...

but oh... how much fun to watch!

Katy

Stephanie Corfee Illustration- Part II

2010-08-10T13:37:00.001-05:00

Here are the two dresses !

Pick one you like...I am having a tough time deciding!
Multi or Pink/Turquoise

If you are interested in a sketch of your "Lil Fashionista" please go to
Stephanie Corfee/ARtist
and then go to her FB page or her shop!
Wonderful things are awaiting you...

Silly Faces!

2010-08-07T21:02:00.000-05:00

Having fun at

"The Old Market" in Omaha, NE

We all had a great day!

I Won an Award...!

2010-08-04T20:52:00.001-05:00

I got my FIRST and ONLY Bloggy Award...

Pretty Wall Art for your Blog, Too!

A fellow blogger, I Never Said That I was June Cleaver gave me a wonderful compliment today! She thought that, me, yes me Kristina deserved such an award. I would like to thank my husband, children and friends for being so supportive,my wonderful supporting cast, and most of all thanks to all my dogs and cats!
Thanks so much for the award!

Here are the Rules

1. Thank and link back to the person who gave it to you.

2. Share SEVEN things about yourself.

3. Pass the award on to 15 bloggers who you recently discovered, and who you think are totally awesome.

4. Contact the bloggers and let them know that they have won.

1st- Thank you to I Never Said I was June Cleaver, without her encouragement I never would of got this far! Seriously, thanks for the nod of confidence! Go now and take a peek at her blog, straight from the hip and spunky too!

2nd- Seven things about little O Me!

I LOVE...Young & the Restless and the Bold and Beautiful..My guilty pleasures!
My two daughters are named after two of the characters Lauren(Fenmore) Nicole(Nicky Newman) from Y&R Lauren Nicole and Katy (Katy Logan)from B&B Wow.. that was embarrassing to divulge!
I was adopted at the age of 3 days, by wonderful adoring parents,gave birth to my first and then later in life adopted two children from Russia. I am blessed!
I am an avid bird watcher. People can't believe that because I can really talk a lot!
I dream of living at the beach...so everyday I can walk,shell and see the beautiful sunsets
My husband is still is sexy,sweet and caring!
Last but not least... I sing like a dead cow!

So my favorite bloggers, from bloggydom! They are in no particular order!

I love Window on the Prairie. She has great narratives and photos of her road trips and a really yummy peach pie recipe

Great Handmade Clothes and Giveaways! Two Little Bugs Clothing She also has great tutorials!

The Fun and Funky The Bockart Family! They love adventure!

I also love Hurricane Riley, a mothers journey with a son with Down Syndrome

A mothers story of her children surprise twins and another one not to far apart, please enjoy her story at,Life as we know it...2 Twinkies and a Tator Tot

Made by Bedtimes Tales, a pictorial story book, and great toys! Love the toy stuffed Dachshunds!

This is such a cute idea,a meal in pretty decorated muffin tins! I participated in this last week and encourage you all to try this , it is so much fun Muffin Tin Mom

enJOYing my Journey

Grammy Reads a wonderful children's book review. I frequent her blog a lot!

Moments of Mommyhood Try the magic muck...so many fun activities on her blog to do

Fantastic, handmade clothing, tutorials and sewing patterns, plus so much more please check her site out, Love her clothes Lil Blue Boo

What Holly Has Seen - She loves Florida, Dogs and the Beach what is not to love!

Mama's Losin' It!- What can you say about Mama Kat... except she is one of the best!!

BeBe Gear, a fan from the minute I saw her handmade clothes. They are entirely up cycled except for the thread! Her site is being updated and will be up in 2 or 3 weeks fully! Go to her Face Book page!

Quiet Life- Her photography is the most wonderful! She offers workshops once in awhile and is a contributor to the Pioneer Woman Photography page!

"Lil Fashionista" Illustrations by Stephanie Corfee

2010-08-03T07:49:00.001-05:00

Step One

I was looking at the Lil Blue Boo(LBB) site, when Ashley showcased her new business cards that were sketched by Stephanie Corfee/Artist I fell in love with the concept and design, and in between all of the frenzy came about "Lil Fashionista's" a sketch of your daughter,with considerable likeness and flair! (prices and sizes vary)

Thank you Stephanie and Ashley for the collaboration and the fun,
but Wait...
it gets one step better, if you have a "Lil Fashionista" of your daughter sketched by Stephanie, Ashley of LBB, will create a dress with your daughters sketch on it! (contact Lil Blue Boo for prices and lead time)
How exciting is that!

So..we are in the first stage...I suggested, she tweaked, she suggested and tweaked until we came up with my

very own "Lil Fashionista"!

Miss Katy
Love this!

now for some color...

Katy
"Lil Fashionista" by
Stephanie Corfee
permission to cross post granted

MUFFIN TIN MOM MONDAY...

2010-08-02T07:46:00.000-05:00

My first try at this... the kids seem to really like it so it will stay main stream in our household for a long while!

Please check her blog out or better yet join up at:

Muffin Tin Mom

My son ate his so fast I could not get a picture...next week!
-kristina-

The Farmers Market

2010-07-31T19:16:00.000-05:00

In our little town of Blair, Nebraska we have a Farmers Market every Wednesday and Saturday. The kids love to go and see all the vegetables,baked goods, and crafts from the vendors there. They also have great jewelry, clothes and metal artwork.

Here are a few pictures of our morning there!

Kita and the beautiful bird houses

Flowers for Sale

Love her work

Bird baths, yard art ect...

Pam Smith

weldingnana444@hotmail.com

Loess Hills Lavender Farm

Missouri Valley,IA

Harvest Season

Mid-August

call first to visit farm: 712.642.9016

These cute shirts were made by Anna Beard of www.monkeyboyclothing.com

100% organic

Vegetables by Epperson Family Garden
Blair's Farmer Market
8am-12:00pm Saturday

Dried Gourds

This vendor had no website, but this is just a beautiful little wren house!

(We brought this one home)

Kita found a caterpillar on a flower, the vendor gave it to him!

Our Dog...

2010-07-28T18:54:00.003-05:00

This is my first time ever writing a poem, or writing anything for that fact.
This is about our favorite dog ever! Thanks for giving me the idea of writing about her!

Fashion

I remember when you were born just a little ball of fur
you just fit into the palm of my hand
All blue,fuzzy and warm

When you were one, we knew you would be special
You had that twinkle in your eye, that all knowing look
You hated getting cold or wet
Just wanted to lay on your bed
And watch from a distance, you did not want to be pestered

Seven seemed to be your magical time
Having your own puppies,
Playing with them, teaching them right from wrong
A light snip of the nose
keeping them in line

Remembering those times, you loved laying in the sun,
just enough to be toasty warm
Watching the day go by, the birds stealing your beloved dog food from your bowl
Yes, you always shared, with your pups and your foes
Always until the end

The time came when you were almost fifteen
Always keeping and eye on your daughters, and grand-daughters
as they played in the yard, and frolicked in the mid fall air
That day you left us, your were licking and nuzzling them,
as if you were giving them...
One last piece of advice,one last thought, one last look

The time came...we buried you
Under a glorious Maple tree to shelter you from the
rain and cold
With all the things you loved...
A cherished ball, your favorite dog treats and blanket
and a piece of all our hearts... forever

I have watched that tree grow, steady and tall, it shades and protects
your daughters, and grand-daughters to this day
You have a ever watching presence...
My little ball of blue fur
All safe,sound and warm

Monday Morning...

2010-07-26T11:57:00.000-05:00

Almost every Monday this is how I feel, The "Monday" Morning Grind.

Get up early, because the kids need to get up early to go to camp,make lunches,find the swimsuits,get their swimsuits and towels in the bag, I nag at them and say "hurry, eat , brush you're teeth,get your shoes on...

We're late!

I ~~Hate,~~ dislike to be late, I think it's rude, and unfeeling to be constantly late, making other people wait for you,my dad would say,"Tina",( I like being called Kris or Kristina)

"The early bird catches the Worm", "Don't waste time,time is money"

In my day is was "Fashionable to be Late", Horse's ~~Ass~~

(that is what all the late arriving people would say to cover their butts)

Sorry, got on my high horse again...

So Monday's are just that, a grind,a getting used to the beginning of the week all over again, but just wait, five more very long days, and we are back in the saddle again,

the weekend will be here!

Signage in a small town in Minnesota, that I took a picture of and post-edited

What If's...

2010-07-25T08:06:00.001-05:00

Oh... you caught me this morning having my cup of ~~coffee, no tea,~~ OK, Pepsi in my coffee cup! I don't drink coffee(don't like it), tea is just to hot, but I need my caffeine, so Pepsi it is. I love the stuff, but now limit myself to one a day! How I miss the never ending supply of that sugar laden, caffeine enriched charged life!

It's still quiet here the kids are asleep, but soon they will be poking their heads outside wondering what I am doing, and then the questions will come, and then they will be hungry, and then they will want to know what I have planned for them for the day, and I will say "it's Sunday we always go to Grandpa's for dinner", and they will say "but before that Mom"... so many questions! Well to get back to the topic of my conversation...

I was sitting out on the back porch this morning just thinking...watching the sun rise,the dogs drinking in the morning sunshine, the birds singing, and cows mooing... and thinking...What If. This is my What Ifs list!

What If

What if I did not move from Chicago, to Phoenix to Omaha...

What if I did not push things to the extreme...

What if i did not get married,divorced, and remarried again...

What if I did not have my beautiful 1st baby Lauren...

What if I never felt the joy of holding my first child in my arms...

What if I did not fly for a certain airline and meet the #1 man in my life...

What if I never fell in love...

What if I never fell out of love...

What if we never adopted Katy and Nikita...

What if I never felt sorrow, pain or the loss of a best friend...

What if I never felt happiness, glee or true love...

What if i never felt the loss of a family member...

What if I never did silly or adventurous things...

What if I never had a competitive edge...

What if I never felt what winning or losing was like...

What if I never felt what being a mother is...

and

What if i never saw that love only a child can give to their parents...

A mother to her son...

A father her to his daughter...

A husbands love for his wife...

So many ifs in my mind...

But one thing is for certain, my life now is happy,content, full of love for my husband,children, family and my friends

Please leave a comment of one of your What Ifs!

How far to Heaven,Just Open your Eyes and Look -Shankar-

2010-07-24T20:33:00.002-05:00

The road is winding the journey is far,

the more you look, the closer you are

-unknown author-

Snapshot Saturday!

2010-07-24T15:58:00.002-05:00

We went to a Graduation party in May at our cousins house and I caught Katy,

doing something, that I just had to share...

It's something that I love to do!

"Say Cheese"

Like mother like daughter...

Her first camera!

My Take on Wordless Wednesday!

2010-07-21T19:25:00.000-05:00

Stop by The Scholastic Scribe and see her Wordless Wednesday Posts!

Love Them, Thanks for stopping By!

Grosgrain: The Reporter Frock Grosgrain Giveaway

2010-07-21T12:25:00.000-05:00

Grosgrain: The Reporter Frock Grosgrain Giveaway

Muffins that "Taste like Doughnuts"

2010-07-20T20:44:00.001-05:00

"Sinfulness( is that a word?) at it's Best"

I tried another recipe from The Pioneer Woman and it's fabulous!
(Butter, Sugar, Cinnamon and Nutmeg and butter and sugar...)

It is in Tasty Kitchen section of her blog and was submitted by one of the subscribers!

They are good, too good, kids went Crazy over them, I mean Crazy!

Thanks for dropping by, and have a great day!

ExtraordinarySunset

2010-07-18T22:35:00.000-05:00

How beautiful is this!

Imagine That! Photography