Havin' a Ball

Time Flies

2011-09-25T16:56:00.007-05:00

The last post was June? Time flies when you are selling a home and moving. We moved to a beautiful home with a lot that faces a ravine. We love our new home and will post pictures when the wood floors are put in. I will try to post some outside ones soon.

My big girl camera no longer works. So you will have to live through my point and shoot pictures until I reach my savings goal for my dream camera :)

We spent this last weekend with Mom and Dad. Meghan wanted to go to Grandma's and make pie. She loved picking the apples, cleaning them and making a yummy pie.

Pancho wanted to help pick apples. Or eat one.

When did my baby grow so big?
The cast is from a fracture :( The girl has her mother's grace.

Kaden thought he would like to bob for apples while cleaning them.

He did it!!
Grandma makes the best crust.

Time to pet Pancho while waiting for the pie to bake.
Kaden helped Poppy chop wood for our campfire. He did such a good job! When did my little boy grow up?

We were blessed to spend such a beautiful fall weekend together. We are lucky to have each other.

Haley Meggy, Colby & Kaden at Poppy & Grandma's

2011-06-24T18:16:00.005-05:00

2011-06-24T18:14:00.002-05:00

Dang you Walt Disney with the successful humanization of animals. 6 months ago I would have exterminated this little critter. Now Kaden has named him Dale and his little friend Chip. The kids feed them and call them their pets. I might encourage it.

Bestest Buds

2011-06-05T11:57:00.005-05:00

As most of you know this is Kaden's best friend, Colby Klieman. Colby lives across the street. They have been pals since they were two. Colby's mom Kaden watched him for a year while I worked at the Alternative School. Since then they have been inseparable. They have grown up with each other spending most of their free time together. I don't think I have ever seen two children play so well together. They have the biggest imaginations and use them to the fullest.

Colby is moving to North Dakota this weekend and I feel like my heart is going to break in half for Kaden. The Kliemans are like family to us. We will remain close but I will miss my other son's daily visits, his wonderful sense of humor and most of all the sweet way he interacts with my boy.

Lane, Nicki & J.J.

2011-06-03T17:32:00.002-05:00

Lane

2011-06-02T15:43:00.003-05:00

This is the little guy I watch part time during the school year. Lane just turned two!! I was so happy when Lane's mom asked me to take his photos by Prairie Lakes. I love Lane like my own. He might be the smartest and cutest two year in Cedar Falls. Meggy went along to assist me. The weather was beautiful, we had a very happy boy and got some great photos.

Hansen Dairy Farm Tour

2011-05-31T08:55:00.003-05:00

Disneyland

2011-04-15T15:47:00.018-05:00

The first character we saw entering Disney.

Mary Lo and Heather Sweeney are the two amazing Industrial Engineering students that gave us free passes into the park, a discount on everything we bought and fast passes!! Mary is my sister-in-law's, Linda, sister.

Princess Aurora & Princess Snow White. As Meghan was referred to by every staff member at Disney. She loved it!

The magical spot your little princess can be princessfied by her own personal fairy godmother.

Fairy Godmother Kathy.

Meghan naturally picked the pink hair.

I think our royal highness is enjoying her makeover. That is what Godmother Kathy called her at all times. As well as princess.

No makeover is complete without a little glitter in the hair. And it's still stuck to her scalp in areas.

After the makeover the princess is introduced to the boutique where everyone pauses and claps for Princess Snow White.

Then she gets to take a peek in the magic mirror.

Princess Jasmine

Princess Tiana

Princess Belle

Dale

Yes she is picking her nose on her throne.

Dancing with the princesses and knights at the royal coronation.

Sir Perfecto

We spent a full day and a half trying to get Snow White's autograph.

Mickey!!!

Kaden loved Goofy!

A cute little vineyard in the middle of California Adventure.

Waiting in line......

Kaden composed and shot this photo all by himself!

We were so blessed to receive the free passes and discounts. The kids were able to experience a vacation of a lifetime because of Mary and Heather's generosity! Every time the kids look at the photos they beg to go back!

The Happiest Place on Earth

2011-04-15T08:32:00.001-05:00

Newport Beach, California

2011-04-10T12:57:00.012-05:00

This is seriously the best thing Meghan has ever encountered :) She was so happy!

Kaden had the time of his life jumping in the surf and watching little fish swim out into the sea.

When we dug down into the sand anywhere there was water there were thousands of little clams. At first I dug my toes into the sand it was rocks.

Messy Meghan was in messy heaven with all the sand. Her favorite part of the entire trip was building sand castles and putting little shells on her creation. And smearing wet sand all over herself.

Kaden seemed so relaxed. The cold water did not detour him from spending almost all of his time in the ocean.

The chili that caused some gastrointestinal issues about the time we hit the curvy Sierra Nevada Mountain roads.

Ken and Linda in a cute little diner on the beach.

Photo Shoot

2011-03-03T15:52:00.010-06:00

My babies are growing up. This last photo shoot really reflected their all sides of their personalities- silly, happy, sad, noncooperative, cooperative, relaxed and anxious.

These wonderful visuals of each individual personality trait is now on our entry wall for a happy reminder of our blessings every time I enter our home.

"You have brains in your head.

You have feet in your shoes.

You can steer yourself

any direction you choose."

Dr. Seuss

Out with the Old

2011-03-03T15:06:00.010-06:00

Recently we have been focused on de-cluttering the clutter and simplifying our style. Our handyman came yesterday and installed wood blinds and new curtain rods in all the bedrooms. Except Kade's room- just the blinds, no curtains. Trying to cut down on potental dust mite magnets to alleviate asthma symptoms. We also put a new bedspread on our bed.

I didn't show before pictures as our house could have qualified us for an episode of the show "Hoarders."

The coat hook area and closet are organizational suggestions of my talented and gifted friend Stacy Palmer. The wall gallery idea was plucked from At Play Photo's blog. The blog Young House Love is what inspired our new look in our bedroom.

Happy Dr. Seuss Week

2011-03-03T08:22:00.002-06:00

‎"Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind." Dr. Seuss

Meggy Quote

2011-02-25T12:59:00.001-06:00

"You need a pedicure. Because your foot is crusty. That's why."

2011-02-24T09:06:00.004-06:00

I follow a local photographer's blog on Facebook called At Play Photo. The link is on the side of my blog. I really enjoy the postings. Her photos are peaceful and relaxing. Recently this post, At Play Photo, inspired me to take some pictures of Meggy reading Dr. Suess. Her current love.

I am hoping to have some pretty sunlight, fixed hair and matching clothes on both kids to make my own wall of photos. That's a pretty tall order for us :)

These are some practice pictures.

Cutie Patootie Pie

2011-02-16T15:34:00.005-06:00

This is sweet Lane. I babysit him Monday, Wednesday & Fridays. He is a JOYFUL addition to our daily routine. I don't think I have met a happier one year old. The top photo is Lane's Mom's Valentine.

2011-02-14T17:05:00.000-06:00

Meggy Quote

2011-02-14T14:18:00.004-06:00

We recently adopted my friend Stacy Palmer's Valentine's family tradition. We are having a fancy candle lit dinner with sparkling apple juice and lots of chocolate. I set the candles on the table for preparation.

While smelling the candles at the table for dinner Meggy says, "Mmmmm that smells like love."

January 2011

2011-02-14T10:53:00.005-06:00

Meggy Quotes

2011-01-16T11:51:00.001-06:00

While picking her nose, Meggy says, "I am allergic to boogers you know."

"I was a little bit on the naughty list but I still got good toys."

"I just so hard to write. I don't know what I am going to do with myself."

Kaden Quotes

2011-01-16T11:48:00.002-06:00

"Is Jesus the guy with the special super powers?"

"Meggy be sure to pack a toy Jesus would like." (while getting ready for church last week)

Living History Farms Historic Lunch

2011-01-15T21:01:00.012-06:00

Today we went to a Historic Lunch at the 1900 farm house on Living History Farms. We went with Grandma Grell, Tom, Uncle Mike, Aunt Vicki, Crystal, Keworth, Chad and Missy. It wasn't just lunch but an afternoon event. It was an awesome, relaxing day with some amazing food and fun company.

Below is an excerpt from Living History Farm's Website.

1900 Farm Dinners
A horse-drawn wagon carries you to the farmhouse, where the smell of freshly baked rolls and hot cider welcomes you. Enjoy a hearty home-cooked meal by the warmth of the stove served family style by our historical interpreters.

Make room for dessert with a lantern-lit trip outside to our 119-year-old barn. Or stay inside and peruse the 1895 Montgomery Ward catalog and play a game of checkers. After dessert, bundle up for the wagon ride back to your car.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-05T10:01:00.001-06:00

Meggy Quote

2010-12-24T15:15:00.002-06:00

As Meggy is opening a present from Rod and me she squeals, "I've always wanted this!!!" "What is it?"

The photos are of Meggy modeling her new clip on dress-up earrings and Snow White dress.

Merry Christmas Everyone!!!

Kaden Quote

2010-12-22T17:42:00.003-06:00

Meghan asked, "How come Santa gives out gifts?"

Before I even had time to ask why do you think? Kaden replied, "Because Santa is God's handy man."

Kaden Quote

2010-12-22T14:28:00.001-06:00

Rod and I volunteered at Kaden's Christmas party yesterday. At dinner last night Rod and I were telling Kaden how lucky he is to have such a fun classroom and nice teacher. Kaden looked at me with a twinkle in his eyes and said, "I really like Mrs. Schlatter. She is like you but she knows everything."

My Favorite Family

2010-12-20T09:08:00.003-06:00

My very good friend Jen Beck asked me to snap a few shots for their Christmas card. I really hesitated as the auto focus on my Rebel has bit the dust and I have lost photo taking interest. She said she didn't care she just wanted a snap shot. I think her snap shots turned out super cute. Not because of my abilities, but because of the subjects.

Kaden's Kindergarden Concert

2010-12-17T20:49:00.002-06:00

Kaden's Kindergarten concert was Wednesday. It was very sweet. Below is one of the songs they sang. Kaden was very nervous about being on the top riser. He loved seeing Rod, Meggy and me there. I took the video with my brand new point and shoot camera Rod gave me!!

Fractals Anyone?

2010-12-14T19:28:00.007-06:00

Tonight, due to re-runs and not having my Aunt Kristi to talk with for endless hours on the phone. I decided to watch a program on IPTV. Generally I do not care for educational programming as my politically paranoid side tends to believe it crosses into social programming. But whateve. There was a non-political Nova on Fractals. What's a the h.e.double hockey sticks is a fractal you might ask? According to IPTV a fractal an irregular shape with repeating shapes are found in cloud formations and tree limbs, in stalks of broccoli and craggy mountain ranges, even in the rhythm of the human heart. Apparently these things have symmetry and patterns and can be applied to the world of mathematics. Prior to 1978 math did not coincide with irregular shapes such as fractals.

At the beginning of the program a Mathematician from Stanford came on and explained the importance of the discovery of fractals with this quote:

"All we need to do is look at these patterns of nature in the right way and you can apply Mathematics. There is an order beneath the seeming chaos. You can write down formulas that describe clouds, flowers, and plants. It's just that it's a different kind of formula that gives us a different kind of Geometry."

It got me thinking what if there is a learning pattern to Kaden that I just need to figure out? What if his learning style seems like chaos to some but is structured and we just don't get it? Maybe if I figure it out it'll give him a different kind of learning outcome. As long as I am his mom I will keep searching for the pattern. I will also strive to set high expectations without smothering his desire to learn. I will try maintain a balance of being a proactive parent that allows my child to be independent and does not cross into neurotic behavior that may oppress Kade's self motivation and confidence. Or obliterate any kind of educational partnership we have with his teachers. Who knew being a parent was a mathematical fine line. And I stink at Math.

Late Bloomer or Retarded? Aren't They the Same? (sarcasm)

2010-12-03T13:16:00.018-06:00

The last few weeks have been abundantly clear the world claims it is more accepting and tolerant of differences than ever but the world's actions do not speak the same. I guess tolerance and the ability to embrace differences is only bestowed upon those that fit into the politically hot topic of the moment. Which leads to labeling and putting people into a box. Athletic, smart, funny, gay, straight, black, white, rich, poor. Television and stuffy, affluent/middle class communities seem obsessed with labeling. Possibly it fulfills that need to organize and place everything into a neat category. I don't see how labeling individuals and acceptance can fit together. I don't refer to my favorite cousin as bi-racial. Or my sister-in-law as Chinese. I don't understand how declaring your sexuality as different than mine or your child as more gifted or retarded can erase barriers. It only seems to highlight the differences. The next natural step after labeling is comparing. People compare by nature. Comparing often seems like judgement. Even my children pick up judgment from comparisons.

There is a point to my rant. I have noticed with this lack of acceptance for individuals comes a disturbing lack of acceptance for little people's differences trend in education. The trend is in part due to the push for early childhood intervention and success with learning disabilities. Also due to the economy. At some point the choice to stay home was no longer a choice for many women. Most kids started going to daycare and learning academics at birth. They have been all shoved through the same factory of routines, curriculums, schedules and experiences. They come to school reading at a 1st to 2nd grade level. Or so I have been told by an AEA staff member. My child stayed home. My child spent most of his childhood at home with minimal academics, regular reading time, lots of love and free time. My child also spent a great deal of time being medically probed by the Mayo Clinic, Covenant or Iowa City. My child looks glazed over most of the time due to his MULTIPLE severe allergies. My child like ME is a late bloomer.

My child was identified as needing special education services 9 weeks into the school year. Kindergarten school year. At first I was accepting. After thinking about it, talking with professionals and reading I am severely annoyed. My stance has changed. Apparently there is something called the "Southdale Effect." So I have been made aware by a very intelligent school professional. According to this individual most kids come into the school reading at the 2nd grade level. Any normal child or a child that is a little different comes in and the teachers go into a special education tizzy rather than instructing differently and giving the child time to grow. This in combination of the teacher testing Kaden's reading level a day and 1/2 after a week fall break sent me over the edge. Was the rest of the class tested after the break of instruction?

I don't think Southdale is the only school that is at fault for hastily labeling and not accepting students as they come. I would guess by the article below excerpt this is a common concern.

I can already see Kaden is picking up on how he is "different" than the other kids. With questions like, "Mom am I smart enough to teach preschool someday?" "I am as smart as the other kids right?"

So thank you Southdale for already labeling my child and perhaps already paving the ground for him to self fulfill his way into failure. Maybe the label isn't on paper but it's apparent to even my 5 year old.

I guess I am starting to question my own judgement. Does my child have a disability? Is the world so obsessed with making everyone perfect they are actually destroying self esteem rather than embracing differences? Or is my child a late bloomer like me? Only time will tell. Hopefully the school doesn't squelch the latter in the meantime.

"When children show a particular aptitude at an early age, educators and parents may find it relatively easy to identify their strengths and talents, assisting them to make correct career choices. There are other children, though, whose strengths and talents are not so easy to identify, leading many educators and parents to think a child is not all that bright and "not cut out for academic study."

The success of many late bloomers is proof, however, that those early systems of measuring intelligence may not be so accurate, after all. Many times it is to do with lack of confidence. This may be attributed to negative feedback provided in a manner that was not constructive, and they were deterred from trying again. There are other children who are surrounded by high achievers and psyche themselves out early that they can never be like their "intelligent" peers.

While it is important for teachers to recognise and praise high achievers, schools need to have systems in place to bring out the abilities of more quiet students who may be struggling, to find what they are particularly good at when they are young. Under the current education systems of many developed countries, there are different subjects offered at schools to provide children with variety opportunities to succeed. Yet there are many people who have slipped through the cracks because intelligence is normally measured early in life, and those who do not show early promise are considered slower and unlikely to succeed."

Glass of Wine and a Necklace?

2010-11-22T10:21:00.005-06:00

Come to my house Tuesday, November 30 from 4-6 p.m. to enjoy a glass of wine, cup of coffee or soda, fun food and shop for Christmas...or yourself. Cookie Lee Jewelry, Arbonne, Scentsy and Tastefully Simple will be here. All would be excellent for any holiday party, teacher/co-worker gifts, white elephant or gift exchange party. Also Cookie Lee jewelry is super in-expensive and adorable. You also can make a Cookie Lee wish list to give to your husbands.

20% of ALL proceeds go to Ollie Palmer's family. As most of you know Ollie was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor called a Pontine Glioma last December. Check out his link on the side of my blog. We are hoping to make this Christmas a little extra special for his family.

BFF's

2010-11-22T09:56:00.003-06:00

Oh my our house is filled with squeals, baby dolls, princess attire, streaks of blond hair, secret brown eyeshadow makeup applications, Halloween candy eating and joy. Meggy's best friend since birth is here to spend a few days. Amelia lives in Omaha. On Sunday we met her mom in Des Moines and went home plus one. Meggy has been looking forward to this birthday gift for months.

Mom's Visit

2010-11-22T09:49:00.003-06:00

Above showing off new manicures.

Mom came up and spent the night last week. Meggy was beside herself with excitement. She really enjoys Grandma Glenda's company. Mom took her for a manicure. Meggy sat patiently while she had all of her nails painted pink with flowers. She didn't smudge a nail. We went for lunch at Hong Kong, Meggy's current favorite restaurant. Meggy spent the day applying pretend lipstick on mom. Mom left with one less layer of skin on her lips due to excessive applications. It was a memorable and sweet 4 year birthday get together for Meggy.

Bad Blogger

2010-11-22T09:46:00.002-06:00

Sorry friends. I took a blogging break. Not only did I stop blogging myself, I haven't checked out any other blogs. I will try to catch up as I have a lot to share.

Haley and Meggy

2010-10-29T19:38:00.003-05:00

We went downtown Cedar Falls to Trick or Treat late this afternoon. I got a cute picture of Meggy and Haley. Unfortunately the pictures I took of the boys were either blurry or eyes were closed. I will post more costume pictures this weekend as we have several more Halloween activities.

Time of Sorrow

2010-10-29T19:23:00.004-05:00

As most of you know Kristi passed away on Sunday, October 17th. Dad's 60th birthday. Right now everyone is grieving. I forgot how tired and forgetful I am when I grieve. Kristi's comment, "more than my niece you are my friend," keeps popping up in my head. I know my Dad misses his sister, Jason misses his mom and my Mom misses her closest friend. Everyone will miss our friend, mentor, advisor and encourager.

Comments from Kristi

2010-10-15T11:37:00.005-05:00

"Great pictures but they are wonderful because who they are pictures of. Hear the boys had a good trip the other day. Love Aunt Kristi

Amy,
You are so creative. The pictures are all so wonderful. The jam sounds wonderful. Thanks for everything you do for everyone, the blog all and all of the kind things you do for everyone. i LOVE YOU.
Aunt Kristi

How cute he looks without his two front teeth. How much does the tooth fairy give now. It was 5 cents when I lost my teeth. The tooth fairy brought Jason a $1.00 bill. I bet inflation has really jumped up the payments.
Love Aunt Kristi

What a terrific looking family, but I don't see my favorite neice in any of the pictures. Amy you are a wonderful person, a terrific mo her and more than my niece you are my friend. Thanks for the beautiful collage. Everyone comments, I could get you full time photo jobs. love aunt kristi

You never know what kids are going to say. Meggie has a great sense of humor. I know you would fit under the door you don't have a big butt. I bet Meggie made the lady in the next room's day. Your mom always told me you don't have any secrets when you have kids. How right she is, Love Aunt Kristi

Happy Mother's Day to a terrific mom. Love Aunt Kristi

Kaden, what a wonderful dandelion chain. You could also make you and meggie a crown of dandelions. you can also rub dandelions on your skin and it will look like butter. love Aunt Kristi

yes precious Meggie, love is warm, fuzzy and soft as a bunny. LOVE IS THE MOST SPECIAL GIFT WE CAN GIVE ONE ANOTHER. love Aunt Kristi

thank you amy. i am so blessed to have you and all my family and friends. love aunt kristi

Hey what a great picture of the kids in the leaves. I think this is one of my very favorite ones. Love Aunt Kristi

Happy Birthday to a wonderful, terrific, great, loved more than anythings beautiful little Meggy!!!
Love, Aunt Kristi"

I am staring at my blog post with a complete loss for words. I sit at meals, family outings and in my living room with a blank mind. I vacillate between feeling numb all over, sick to my stomach, grief for my parents and cousins and then back to blank.

As you know this last year my favorite aunt, Kristi, became very ill and almost died. She seemed to be on the road to recovery and heading home this summer when she became very sick again. Kristi now requires a ventilator to help her breath. He bones and tissues are breaking down. Even being turned in bed causes extreme amounts of pain. This Saturday Kristi is going to forgo the ventilator to seek peace and rest. Kristi asked to see the kids and I over Skype. I wanted to see her again. Touch her hair, hold her hand, look straight into her eyes to tell her how much I love her and how I am going to miss her. I was lucky enough to do that on Thursday as were Kade and Meghan.

Above are some samples of her sweet kind, loving words of encouragement Kristi has left on my blog. That's just a small example of her love for us. Her love also spilled over in frequent phone calls, generous gifts and support. I will miss her so much. I am happy she is going home to the Lord and her body can be whole again. I will miss you Kristi. I love you.

2010-10-12T13:33:00.001-05:00

Uncle Kenny has Fun Toys

2010-10-12T12:05:00.001-05:00

Spur Cross Stables

2010-10-12T11:24:00.006-05:00

We went to Spur Cross Stables so the kids could ride a horse. The stable is located in Cave Creek out on a dusty dirt, mountain road in the desert. Rain had just passed through which cooled the temperature to 78 degrees. When we arrived the kids were given a bag of carrots they could either feed to the wondering donkey, mule or their horse, Duke. Duke was a large, 16 year old, gentle quarter horse. Kade and Meggy loved him. Kaden really did well riding. Sandy, the horse trainer, suggest he come back for a trail ride. We are hoping to do that in February!

Brandon & Brinley

2010-10-12T11:07:00.003-05:00

My brother's friend, Todd, has twins, Brandon and Brinley. I always hesitate to refer to Todd as "my brother's friend." He is more like another brother to me and my brother. He is family to us and his children are like cousins to my children. Todd and the kids live in Phoenix. We had dinner several times with the them at Ken and Linda's. Just relaxing, eating, playing with the kids. Todd brought the little truck over and we borrowed the pink jeep from Ken's neighbor. The kids drove them all afternoon. They loved it. And it turns out Rod and I are TERRIFIED of Meghan getting a license.

As you can see from the photos Meggy adores Brinley. She asks on a regular basis to go to Phoenix to have a play date with Brinley.

Sea Life Aquarium

2010-10-12T10:46:00.004-05:00

We all went to this awesome interactive aquarium and spent the day: Sea Life Aquarium

No flash photography was allowed in the aquarium to protect the sea life. We still got some great images of our day.

After the aquarium we went to a really good sushi restaurant to eat. The aquarium gave Linda and I the urge to eat sushi. Kaden ate calamari with chopsticks all by himself! Meghan informed me she did not like "Tushi."

Stingray Sushi Restaurant

Arizona Fun

2010-10-12T10:29:00.003-05:00

September 20th we were lucky enough to fly to Phoenix to spend a week with Ken and Linda. It was a very relaxing week of mostly swimming, cooking and enjoying each other's company. I will post a few highlights. There is a cute little hotdog place near Ken & Linda's house we ate at.

Meggy Quote

2010-10-02T10:33:00.001-05:00

"Mom when I live in my own house someday will you be really old?"

Hello

2010-10-01T17:56:00.003-05:00

Sorry I have not been such a good blogger. We have been so busy. We just returned from visiting Ken and Linda in Phoenix for eight days. We had a blast. I will post pictures soon.

Here is a link to Kaden's Kindergarten blog site. I will also have it on the side of my blog. Please feel free to leave a comment on Kindergarten Corner's blog posts as Mrs. Schlatter reads them to the class. They really like to get comments from out of state (hint hint Linda, Merv :)). Just sign something like "Kaden's Aunt Linda in Phoenix" at the end of your comment. Feel free to comment even if you live in Iowa.

Meggy's First Day of Preschool

2010-09-10T16:40:00.004-05:00

Meggy is so lucky to have Kaden's 3 year old preschool teacher, Jessica Finnegan at St. John. She is so wonderful with children. Meggy loved her first day and has asked every day since if she could go back.

Ice Cream Truck

2010-09-09T16:04:00.003-05:00

I HATE the ice cream truck with a passion that only other parents of preschoolers can identify with. I was just serving lunch when the twangy music comes seeping through your house from the stinking thing 2 miles away. I swear the music is set at a tone only dogs and children can hear for 15 miles before it appears. So just as lunch was hitting the table on Saturday the kids start hollering about wanting allergies, I mean ice cream. 40 minutes later some balding guy with a pot belly, 2 day old stubble wearing a wife beater and pervert glasses rolls his hunk of junk down the street and the kids go berserk. I arm my self with quarters and pepper spray as the kids pick out their treats. Above is a picture of the cuteness that followed.

2010-09-02T10:57:00.000-05:00

Uncle Ken's Visit

2010-08-30T08:37:00.002-05:00

Ken was back for a quick visit. The kids always love his company. Ken is so good to them. He gets down on the floor and plays, acts silly and loves them up. We are so excited for our trip to Phoenix in a few weeks so we can see Linda too!

Lane

2010-08-26T07:46:00.004-05:00

I am babysitting this little guy part-time. His name is Lane and he is as sweet and laid back as he is cute. Meggy likes having a play-mate Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

Octomom

2010-08-26T07:44:00.000-05:00

1st Day of Kindergarten

2010-08-25T17:38:00.004-05:00

Kaden was excited and nervous about his first day of school. He did not want to get on the bus. He cried a little. I hugged him and gave him a kiss. Haley sweetly took his hand and told Kaden school is fun and she help him on the bus. Kaden took Haley's hand and got on. Kaden got off the bus this afternoon happy about his day. He told me that his teacher and principal are really nice.

2010-08-23T18:27:00.001-05:00

Cupcakes for Lunch

2010-08-21T14:43:00.008-05:00

Meggy and I went downtown today for a girls day out as Kaden is staying with my folks. This morning she saw a commercial for chocolate dessert and asked to go out to eat for chocolate. I said excellent idea! Since her last allergy test went well and I wanted to start a new tradition, dessert for girls lunch once a month, we went here. The idea is in lieu of my friend Stacy's 1st day of school ice cream for breakfast tradition. Meggy choose an Oreo cookie chocolate cupcake and I had a Chocoholic cupcake. We brought Rod Wedding Day cupcake home. I think Meggy enjoyed the experience. For all the cupcake lovers out there I HIGHLY recommend a visit. Soon.

2010-08-20T10:44:00.001-05:00

Baby Model

2010-08-19T14:47:00.002-05:00

Summer Travels

2010-08-16T12:46:00.004-05:00

We went to Nevada, Iowa last weekend to see Rod's folks. Kaden and Meggy's aunt and cousin's, Denise, Jake and Jordan, went with us to the aquatic center. It was a perfect day. Check out Rod and Jake flying down the slide :)

Summer Fun

2010-08-16T12:41:00.003-05:00

We have been having a lot of fun this summer. We have been traveling, swimming, riding bikes, fishing and traveling more. I have also been babysitting this little chunk of cuteness the last few weeks. Owen beck is three months old and needless to say we are in LOVE. Look at that formula belly!!

PETA Would Not Approve

2010-08-16T12:33:00.002-05:00

There's an abundance of toads in our yard due to good bug eating. Kaden has been rescuing them from the egress windows. Which is the good part. However he hauls his catch around all day doing things like throwing birthday parties for it, throwing it in the air to see if lands on it's feet and giving it 'baths'. It's been a good learn how to be gentle with animals experience.

Meggy Quotes

2010-07-22T12:42:00.003-05:00

This morning when Meggy was waking me up she pleaded, "Time to get up Mom. Get all your parts up Mom."

"Mommy you are so cute. You are not cute you are beautiful." (At least she wasn't gagging at the sight of my stomach or pointing out my yellow teeth.)

Pig Penette

2010-07-21T10:27:00.003-05:00

I thought a relatively dry muffin would make a semi-clean snack. I should have known.

2010-07-20T10:55:00.001-05:00

Karate Kid

2010-07-18T18:51:00.005-05:00

Kaden has taken an interest in the martial arts. He has started Taekwondo and is intrigued with the movie "Karate Kid." We have watched the originals a few times. Not the new one because my friend Jenn said it best, "Mr. Miyagi would roll over in his grave if he saw the new one." While watching the first "Karate Kid" for the second time today Kaden got out his activity basket and fashioned himself a head band like the Karate Kid's. I got the biggest kick out of it.

2010-07-18T17:53:00.000-05:00

Sunset at Prairie Lakes

2010-07-17T17:32:00.001-05:00

Bucks Game

2010-07-16T20:10:00.004-05:00

Merv stayed with us last weekend. We had a wonderful time!! We fit a game in on Saturday to watch my friend Stacy's son, Ollie, throw the first pitch. During the game Kaden was asked to announce the batters in the 5th and 6th inning. We went up the press box and sat with the announcer. He told Kaden the name and to speak it loud into the microphone. At first Kaden was very nervous and it took a little time for him to repeat the name back. By the end of the 6th inning he was shouting out the names like a pro. He was rewarded with two tickets to next week's game. Throughout the night the mascot, Buck, was greeting children. Meggy took a liking to Buck. She kept blowing him kisses. Ollie threw a great pitch and the kids loved playing with each other. At the end of the game there were fireworks.

My Dream Camera (point and shoot)

2010-07-09T22:02:00.003-05:00

Above are a few sample photos that Merv took this afternoon. Can you believe these came from a point and shoot???? I am open to early Christmas and birthday gifts. Or late 4th of July. Whatever.

Kaden Quote

2010-07-07T10:49:00.004-05:00

I sent the kids to their rooms for quiet time as they could not keep their hands to themselves. I explained that since I had so much housework to do and they could not behave they would have to go to quiet time so I could get my work done. A few minutes into quiet time Kaden peeks his head out the door and offers, "Mom can I help you since you have so much hard work?"

Playing with Actions

2010-07-07T10:36:00.002-05:00

Found a free action that makes a little blog collage.

Learning to Create Jumping Shots

2010-07-06T11:39:00.002-05:00

Even though photography business is temporally on hold. Learning is not. I have been inspired to set goals and learn more. I really want to improve my photos and techniques. Today's photography portion of Pioneer Woman is all about creating fun children's jumping shots. So I did a little reading and took my kids out to the steps. Not a lot of air between them and the ground but still fun. If you have an idea of a great place to get some jump shots let me know and I will take some practice shots of your people.

Merv's Very AWESOME Old Look

2010-07-03T11:37:00.002-05:00

A different take

2010-07-03T11:32:00.002-05:00

Meggy and Dorothy

2010-07-02T22:50:00.003-05:00

Some wonderful family friends, Gary and Jeanne McDonald, came to visit from Nashville this last week. We went back to my folk's house to have dinner with them. I naturally did not get pictures of them but some very cute ones of their mom, Dorothy, and Meggy.

Playing with Actions and Photoshop

2010-07-02T22:32:00.004-05:00

Twilight Mania

2010-07-01T07:59:00.003-05:00

You may not know that along with 15 million tweens my friends and I LOVE the Twilight book series. I was lucky enough to be invited by my friend Malissa and Stacy to the midnight premiere of the third book made into a movie two nights ago. Needless to say we had a fantastic time. We camped out in line early played trivia, played with barbies and laughed so hard I almost peed myself. You read the barbie part correctly. Stacy brought her daughter's Edward (main character in the series) vampire barbie and made her own Jacob (another werewolf character) doll. That led into Stacy and I recreating Eclipse with the dolls prior to the movie. Stac also brought vampire bite tattoos and vampire glitter.

Meggy Quote

2010-07-01T07:57:00.001-05:00

Meggy crawled into bed with me, patted around and asked what is that? She lifted up the blanket and answered her own question with, "Oh that's just your hairy arm."

Kaden Quote

2010-07-01T07:55:00.001-05:00

We were eating at the Fish Market in Clock Tower Square in Des Moines with my parents. Kaden was sitting between Poppy and Grandma. He had just polished off the rest of Grandma's lobster bisque soup and a piece of fish when he exclaimed, "I am loving this meal!"

Homemade Strawberry Preserves

2010-06-21T10:19:00.003-05:00

Rod, Kade, Meggy and I went to Heartland Farms to pick strawberries on Saturday. It was the end of the season so pickings were slim. I was able to preserve 27 jars. There is nothing better than homemade preserves on Mom's homemade bread.

More Pictures from Father's Day

2010-06-20T22:53:00.002-05:00

Father's Day 2010

2010-06-20T22:43:00.003-05:00

My apologies for not keeping up with the blog! It's been a busy summer so far. A few weeks back we went to Nevada to visit Grandma and Grandpa Ball and got to spend the day with Aunt Denise, Uncle Marc, Jordan and Jake. The kids really look up to their big cousins and enjoy spending time with them. Jake and Jordan are very good with Kade and Meggy.

Last weekend I got to go all by myself to Omaha and Lincoln to see my friend Jenn and Aunt Kristi. It was an awesome weekend of crafting, visiting, eating and painting nails. I wish I was closer to two of some of the most amazing women I know.

I have also been canning strawberry preserves, knitting, cleaning out the toy room, preparing to paint and entertaining the kids.

Today we spent the day at Mom and Dad's for Father's Day. We had a late breakfast, fished, sat outside, and rode around in the paddle boat. It was very nice to spend the day with two of my favorite fathers.

Memorial Day Weekend

2010-06-01T11:10:00.003-05:00

We went to Mom and Dad's on Sunday. We spent the day fishing, paddle boating, visiting and grilling. We saw a 2 1/2 foot Bull snake and a caravan of horses. It was nice to get out in the country!

Meghan was determined to paddle the boat by herself. It was so funny. She propped her forearms on the seat and reached her little legs out to the peddles. I will get a picture of it next time we go back. She did a great job. She paddled both Mom and me around the pond.

Grandma, Tom and Uncle Kevin came out for supper. Rod made ribs and Mom had salad from lettuce she grew in the garden.

Meggy Quote

2010-06-01T11:07:00.001-05:00

"Do you like my picture Mom?"

"I do. It's very colorful."

"It's a party."

All I want for Memorial Day is My Two Front Teeth

2010-05-26T19:00:00.003-05:00

Kaden's top right tooth started to wiggle a few months ago. It never fell out. The permanent tooth grew in behind it at an angle and tightened the baby tooth back up. I suspected it was going to need dental help to come out. I called our dentist's office and they told me to come in right away. After years of being poked at due to allergies Kaden is slightly anxious for scheduled appointments to the doctor or dentist. I told him we would be going to get his kindergarten check-up. Before you judge me I will tell you it was half true. The dentist did need to sign a form that was due back to the school.

The dentist came in took one look and told his hygienist to start the laughing gas. As soon as the word laughing gas came out of his mouth Kaden was hysterical. Our dentist happens to be very experienced with children and did a fantastic job of calming Kaden down. After a little laughing gas Kaden relaxed and the dentist pulled both top baby teeth.

Kaden did very well and the tooth fairy heavily compensated for his trauma.

When our neighbor lady came over Kaden told her, "I went to the dentist for my kindergarten check-up and he pulled TWO teeth!"

Today I figured out why the laughing gas scared him so badly. He and Colby were playing with his Batman tower and actions figures. Kaden had the Joker and said in his villain voice, "Now you get the laughing gas!!" It dawned on me in his favorite Batman book the Joker gasses a few people with laughing gas.

Baby Owen Beck

2010-05-17T14:19:00.004-05:00

A very close friend of mine just had her first baby on May 8th. Jen, Owen's mom, patiently let me contort his little body, shove him into props and take lots of photos. For a first time mom she was incredibly calm. She is even agreed to letting me take more in the next week :) He is beautiful!!

Mother's Day

2010-05-12T14:15:00.007-05:00

We met Grandma Grell, my parents and Rod's parents in Ames at Hickory Park for lunch. Kaden and Meggy loved our mini road trip. We waited about an hour to eat and when we left at three o'clock the wait line was packed.

Rod's Birthday

2010-05-12T13:26:00.002-05:00

For Rod's birthday the kids helped me pick out gifts and candles, wrap gifts, make cards and decorate the cheesecake. They were so excited it was their dad's birthday. We had to listen to happy birthday the computer through all of our preparations. I love Meggy's expression in this picture!

Meggy Quote

2010-05-03T10:09:00.004-05:00

In the Younker's dressing room Meggy questioned, "Are we trapped in here?"

"No sweetie."

"I can crawl out under the door."

"Just stay in here. Mommy is almost done."

"You can't fit under here (pointing at the space between the door and floor) because your butt is too big."

Laughter from the next dressing room.

Meggy Quote

2010-04-30T14:05:00.001-05:00

It's nap time. "Meggy close your eyes."

"I can't my eyes are too weak."

I didn't expect anything less

2010-04-27T14:48:00.005-05:00

Click HERE to read about CF Nursing Plan decision

A Taylor Swift Song Parody and It's so TRUE

2010-04-27T14:48:00.001-05:00

Dandelion Chain

2010-04-22T14:31:00.003-05:00

Kaden was talking to Kristi on the phone yesterday. She suggested we make dandelion chains. We made a long one today and Kade decided to hang it on the tree for the birds.

Meghan Dancing to Taylor Swift

2010-04-22T11:01:00.003-05:00

Every day Meggy asks me to "turn on Taylor Swift on my computer." She puts on her princess dress and proceeds to sing and dance for as long as Taylor Swift sings.

Meggy Quotes

2010-04-22T08:57:00.002-05:00

"How does God put Jen Kennedy's baby in her tummy?"

While listening to Taylor Swift dressed in her princess costume, dancing, Meggy asked me, "Did Taylor Swift fall in love like Snow White did with Prince Charming?"

"How do I fall in love?" "What does it feel like?" "Does falling in love feel soft?"

Update on C.F. Schools Nursing Proposal

2010-04-21T07:54:00.002-05:00

Click here to read an update on the board's progress toward a decision. C.F. school nurses's future to be decided by Monday vote

Hickory Hills Park Cont.

2010-04-19T14:03:00.011-05:00

We tried our hand at fishing. No bites. Which was O.K. as the kids were WAY more interested in creating earthworm mud cakes along the shore. They both had a blast.

Hickory Hills Park

2010-04-19T13:49:00.006-05:00

Sunday afternoon Rod and I loaded up the truck with fishing poles and headed about 30 miles South to this park for an afternoon of fun with the kids. It's an interesting park with a small wildlife preserve, lake, campground and hunting area. We stopped at the wildlife preserve first. Here are a few pictures. Will be adding more soon.

PIONEER WOMAN PHOTO CONTEST

2010-04-18T17:42:00.012-05:00

My friend Merv Downing, of Oklahoma, made the Pioneer Woman's group 5 of her last photo contest!!!!!! Check out MervD123's gorgeous rose photo here!!! Merv is my photography mentor. Congratulations Merv!

Beautiful Lily

2010-04-17T22:50:00.002-05:00

Sweet Owen

2010-04-17T22:46:00.002-05:00

Cedar Fall's Proposal

2010-04-13T09:09:00.007-05:00

Cedar Falls School District proposed cutting all 9 their nurses and replacing them with 3-4 county nurses and county aids for the next year. In 2001 the district passed a tax levy with the promise there would be a school nurse in every building. As you can imagine this cut does not work for our family due to Kaden's needs. I called Dr. Stoakes with my concerns. Dr. Stoakes is the superintendent. He had no time for my concerns and did not want to hear my concerns. Not knowing I know some employees in the district he discredited my concerns by implying I was a kook and Kaden's needs were not very serious.

I have some personal opinions that are not very popular on how the district can save money. I kept hearing about how the state has put the district in this terrible predicament and that they have no choice but to make the $60,000 nursing cut. And of course this cut is for the students. Unfortunately for the district by law they have to educate my child and meet his needs. So the states lack of funding is really just a moot point. I was told from a valid source if all 19 administrators went on a voluntary salary freeze for the next year it would solve the entire budget crisis. I was told raising student fees by $20 would ensure the current nurse's jobs. I suppose the newly remodeled administrative offices at the Jr. Highs and High School with central air, ergonomic chairs and new large desks for principals to spread out their news paper out is for the students as well. I am sure that those things came from a different funding source and I should keep my kooky, ignorant opinion quiet. As I am just a simpleton that pays my taxes that helps make these purchases, pay salaries and elects board members. With that being said I went to the board meeting last night. Turns out there were a lot of concerned kooks just like myself there. Some of the kooks there were two HIGHLY respected doctors in town. They had the same valid concerns I had. Here is the speech I presented:

My name is Amy Ball. I am here to put the district on notice of my concerns. My son, Kaden, will be entering kindergarden at Southdale in the fall. Kaden has multiple serious allergies that have led to anaphylactic shock. We are not always able to identify what caused the reaction. We were told by Kaden’s doctors at the Mayo clinic and at Allergy Associates that he was one of the most allergic children they have ever evaluated. Under the current nursing model Southdale School has an RN available to students for 75% of the day. Under the proposed plan there would be an RN on site for approximately 31% of the day and a county-trained medical assistant for the rest of the day. I called Black Hawk County for a definition of a county-trained medical assistant. It is a lay person with CPR/First aid training and certification to pass out medications. I followed up with a letter and phone call to Dr. Stoakes. He briefly spoke with me and said that a 504 plan would be the district’s course of action for Kaden’s needs under the proposed model. A 504 plan, is an attempt to remove barriers and allow students with disabilities to participate freely; it seeks to level the playing field so that those students can safely pursue the same opportunities as everyone else. For instance, providing Kaden with an allergy-free space to eat lunch would be one accommodation under a 504 plan. Kaden has so many barriers due to the vast amount of allergies he has that the district needs to consider how adequately equipped they are to handle anaphylaxis. As the 504 plan is defined as a plan to remove barriers it does not specifically address my concerns with proposed nursing cut. I communicated these concerns to the medical professionals that currently provide treatment to Kaden and know him best. Kaden’s internal medicine, allergy and immunology doctor at the Mayo Clinic, Dr. Miguel Park answered my concerns as follows:

I asked, Would a lay person with CPR and first aid training be able to adequately evaluate Kaden in or prior to an anaphylactic episode? Dr. Park states, “Difficult, an RN would be much more desirable.”

-2. I asked, How adequately could this person intervene based on their evaluation? “Again difficult and an RN would be desirable in that situation.”

3. I asked Do you think he/she would have the knowledge base to communicate with other health providers in an emergency situation such as anaphylaxis? Dr Park paused and posed this question,”How would it be any different that what a teacher could communicate?” “It would be the same as if a teacher with CPR training were communicating or managing your child’s medical needs.”

4. With the training I mentioned would this assistant have the knowledge and background to provide health teaching to cope with multiple environmental and food allergies Kaden has? Dr. Park responds, “No. Cedar Falls school district’s current model is much more desirable than the proposed plan.”

Dr. Thompson of Allergy Associates sent a statement to the district that said, “It would be prudent for the district to have an RN on site for resuscitation and anaphylaxis in case of accidental exposure.”

I realize the proposed model is an initiative many schools statewide are pursuing. Unfortunately it is a relatively new model in which there is no study available to support whether not it is effective or harmful to students with medical needs such as Kaden’s. Therefore, I would like from the board and Dr. Stoakes written assurances that the county’s lay personal with “training” will be as qualified as the nurses under the current model given Kaden’s needs. I documented that two board members communicated to me last week that the new model would provide just as adequate service if not better. I would like each one of the 4 questions answered by Kaden’s doctor to be addressed in the written assurance. I urge the district to consider more viable solutions for the budget.

The board announced, "Remember we are videotaping." to all the speakers. At that I was told I should have ended my speech with, "Thank you for video taping as it will make an excellent record."

I will post the board's decision as soon as I hear it.