Monday, June 30, 2008

Late Night Gift Exchange

Just before bed, Allen declared that he wanted me to give him a gift. Ashton liked the sound of this and also wanted a gift. They did not expect me to leave and buy them gifts but rather specified right up front that I could give them something from around the house.

I gave Allen a strategy guide that has been behind a stack of video games for a couple of years. It is a guide to the game Dragon Quest VIII which he has played before and likes so he was very appreciative. Ashton received a lanyard and a pocket watch with the logo of my employer on the face. I also gave her a silver metal box to store precious things in. I remember loving little boxes and the like as a kid. Allen gave me a hug and a kiss and was very happy. Ashton decided she needed to give me something so she told me to leave her room so that she could create artwork suitable for the situation. It was a very nice set of hearts and the word "Daddy" at the top. On the reverse side was a sunflower.

What a nice way to end the day!

Sunday, June 29, 2008

Long Week

I can't believe I haven't posted in the last week. Some meetings crept up and schedules were changed so the normal day to day flow of things was interrupted. Amber and the kids went to a wedding yesterday while I was at work. I got home just a few minutes before they did so I saw the girls in cute matching outfits and Allen was looking like the young man growing up.

Even the weather has not been cooperating very well and the rain has meant it has been tough to get the lawn completely mowed. I got rained on twice in the last week trying to get it done. The upside is that I did not get a sunburn on the top of my head!

Sunday, June 22, 2008

Weekend Visit with the Inlaws

We just got back from Bruce and Marcie's house. It was a good time. Every visit we end up with more Beanie Babies. They used to collect them and now are happy to spread the joy by giving them to the grandkids. Chelsea had a bridal shower and the girls all went to be a part of it. It has been decided that Allen will be the ring bearer and Ashton and Abby will be flower girls. Every one is very excited and we are looking forward to the wedding.

Tuesday, June 17, 2008

The Zoo

We went to John Ball Zoo yesterday. We had a fun time together. We ended up having a picnic and seeing plenty of sleepy-looking animals. The kids had a chance to touch stingrays. We even saw the penguins. The girls sat in the wagon as I pulled and Allen walked. The day was very fun.

Saturday, June 14, 2008

Take Five






I like this song quite a bit.

Busy week agian. I have taken yet another position recently and it is more demanding than the last one. I am gaining credibility and I can honestly say that it is challenging.

Allen has been sick the last couple of days. I really hope he feels better in the morning. He is a sweet kid.

Wednesday, June 11, 2008

Library Cards!

Ashton and Allen received library cards today. It was very exciting because the library had just begun the Summer reading program so there were treats and crafts and prizes. It was quite fun.

We had a jam-packed day of fun. We also spent time with Grandpa and the Johnsons. Over the course of a few hours we saw everyone. The kids played and had some snacks. We eventually went outside where Allen tried his hand at learning how to ride a two-wheel bike by himself. It was kind of hot so he only wanted to try a few times.

Early today the kids went to the dentists. It was a new place because of Amber now being the insured party in our house. The news was *ahem* mixed. We have to enforce some more strict rules now.

Sunday, June 8, 2008

According to My Child, I am the Best Daddy in the Whole World

Abby is still awake and she got up to announce that she had something very important to tell me: I am the best Daddy in the whole world. Then she asked me for chips. Amber and I both laughed and I told Abby that her techniques were impressive but would not work. She is still asking for chips. Just a few. She only wants a few chips.

It has been very stormy the last couple of days. The kids were pretty scared last night because it was heavy rains and many instances of lightning were very close. Many homes across the state were without power because of it.

Also, Dad's birthday is this weekend. Hopefully, we will be able to coordinate a time for everyone to be together at the same time. I know we will see him at least on Wednesday.

Friday, June 6, 2008

Hmmmm





Thursday, June 5, 2008

School is Out

The kids are at home for the Summer. Allen had his last day today. When I asked him how he felt he said that he was happy but he will miss his teacher. The back door (which is the commonly used entrance) now has been upgraded with a really nice deck and set of stairs. It looks sharp and is much safer than the old cement steps and the old wooden ramp.

Monday, June 2, 2008

I Hate Bats

Really. I do. Especially at night.