A sweet surprise from a sweet friend

Lindsay has been participating in the Nutcracker this year. We've been busy getting her to rehearsal and now the performances have started. Last night was opening night. Lindsay was so excited. I was working security backstage all night, but I did get to see Lindsay come through and go to wardrobe. I gave her some loves and wished her good luck, which now I don't know if I was supposed to do that or tell her break a leg...hmmm.

When it was over I saw all the girls going back through, many of them leaving and many of them had bunches of flowers. Oh oh. I didn't buy and flowers. I also forgot to get Lindsay 24 opening night gifts to hand out to her fellow Palace Fairies. Crap. Double strike. I knew Lindsay would be understanding and pretend that she didn't need flowers. I still felt like a heal.

I got back to the green room, ready to apologize, that's when Lindsay ran to me and she was holding a beautiful bouquet of orange roses and deep maroon mums. They were lovely and arranged so perfectly. Who gave her flowers? She was just smiling and so proud of her roses. I remarked how pretty they were and looked at the card. It read:

Lindsay Loo!
So proud of you.
Way to go!
{heart} Seth, Keely,& Daisy

It was my sweet and thoughtful friend Keely and co. She mentioned on her blog that she loved the Nutcracker and was going to attend. I let her know that Lindsay was going to be a Palace Fairy and in the front, so watch out.

I am so touched. I teared up at the loving gift. You saved my hide and made Lindsay's night perfect. Thank you so much dear friend. I love you bunches.

Halloween 2010

The weather was great this year. No coats or layering needed. I didn't take many pictures, my camera has been acting up and not so reliable.

The first time ever there was a division of the group. Abbey went off with her cousin Miranda while Lindsay stayed with Daddy and her friends Michael and Nicky. Girls are getting older. The candy haul was really light this year. I hope next year yields more fruit.

Abbey was a Jedi

Lindsay was a Leprechaun.

I made both costumes. It reminds me why I only sew once a year. I managed to get a shot of both of them when we went to Jeff's parents house after tricks or treats.
One funny little thing I need to mention. Lindsay's teacher at school wanted all of the kids to come by his house on Halloween. He said his was the scariest house there ever was and kids had been known to run screaming in fear. Lindsay speculated that he must have F's everywhere. We had to go. We got there and the guy had one of the coolest yards I've seen in a while. Very neat, but Lindsay was a scoffer, she wasn't scared. Lindsay dinged the doorbell and there was her teacher. He gave Abbey some candy. He gave Lindsay some candy. She was about to leave when he told her to wait a minute. He then handed her a math worksheet with about 30 big multiplication problems. He told her he wanted it finished and turned in the next morning. AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHH!!!!!!!

Post about Abbey, or Abburt, if you're in the inner circle.

Abbey turned 12 in July and to be honest, I don't remember what we did. It was on a Sunday, we had cake, she requested a certain kind of dinner, and we had presents. I'm a bad mom, I know. I should have pictures and a clear memory of what happened. I do know that that was shortly before we packed up a bunch of clothes and abruptly moved to Kennewick to be closer to Jeff. I'll have to ask Abbey when she gets home from school if she remembers if we did anything else.

She did start a new school this year. It was a very rocky beginning. She had a very difficult time making friends. For the first month of school she was so depressed about her life. I didn't know what to do for her, I was depressed myself. I comforted her and tried to brainstorm with her on what to do. I asked her who she ate lunch with, it made me sad to think of her sitting by herself at a table all alone. She then informed me that everyday she would eat her lunch with the Life Skills kids. They are the kids with mental disabilities by the way. Abbey has always had a soft spot for anyone with a handicap. She told me that sometimes it was the best part of her day. Aww, I love her.

Soon after that I would start to hear certain girl's names mentioned. I would inquire as to the friendship status and it was looking good. Abbey was slowly, but surely, gaining friends. She started to eat lunch with these girls at their table. She made sure to let them know though, that two days a week were still devoted to the LS kids. She also let it be known that they were free to join her.

Since Abbey is in the 7th grade this year, she was able to participate in school sports. First up, volleyball! She was very excited about this. Her previous volleyball venture was cut short due to a broken thumb. Volleyball was a good experience for her. The most important thing she needed to learn was teamwork, supporting your teammates, and really being open to constructive criticism and learning from it. She made progress in all areas so I think it was well worth her time.

She became closer with some of the girls on her team, which in turn made her happy. Yay. She also looked cute in her uniform. I went to most of the home games as did Jeff's mom and his sister. Lindsay would come to support her, but bring the DS for backup.

Just to do a quick round up on Abbey now. She's getting really good grades, almost made the Principal's List. Next time. She's got a good group of friends at school. They genuinely like her and are excited to see her in the morning. She's part of the Buddy Club at school. Buddy Club is the official club for the LS kids. She didn't want to do dance. That was the sport option after volleyball. She is going to go out for basketball in January though.

Abbey is still sad with leaving our home and having to move to a new place. She is happy too. She's learning that it's possible and OK to be happy and sad about the same thing at the same time. Feelings and emotions are complex. She's my daughter, she needs to learn the term "I'm complicated". I'm proud and relieved that she's making the best of her situation. I am so lucky to have an Abbey. She is certainly cream of the crop. Oh, the purple and teal are the colors of Horse Heaven Hills. Just thought it would bring a nice theme to the post.

Time for something new

I actually didn't want to post until Jeff got a new job, but who knows when the heck that's going to happen. My life has sucked pretty hard since the summer and I didn't feel like talking about it and getting pulled over by the "you need to be grateful" police. Don't need or care to hear it, thanks.

The reason I'm posting now is that I was looking over old posts of mine. It's been a great scrapbook and that's what I was intending it to be in the first place. My life has taken a dramatic turn and not for the better, somethings are better. I think I should still write down and take pictures of my families life. I've almost completely lost the will to care and I don't want it to be that way. I want to look back and see some good that was mixed in with all the crap. There is good, there is.

I also miss my friends that I've made in the blog world. By shutting my blog out I've accidentally shut you out too. I include family in this as well. I'm sorry.

I also wanted something else up because for months when I come to check my blog sidebar I see the old post header and it's just winy and annoying. It was how I was feeling at the time, but I'm tired of seeing it. I would delete it, but it was a true representation of how I felt and I want to be honest.

I want to start with Lindsay's birthday. She turned 10 this year. My youngest is in double digits! I love that little girl so much. She didn't get a party this year. We had to leave our house and live at Grandma's so all of her friends were 2 hours away. We did make it up to her by taking her to lunch and treating her and Abbey to pedicures. Later in the evening we had a family dinner and invited the Rosenstocks down the street. Lindsay has been best friends with their two boys since she was 4 0r 5. Jeff and the girls made the decorations and I made the food. We had shredded beef tacos, beans, rice, salsa, chips, and vanilla cupcakes with real strawberry frosting. The weather was nice. It did threaten to rain, but never went through with it. Lindsay got so many presents. It was like Christmas! She's never got a haul like that from a regular birthday party. I believe she literally got everything she wanted. How many people can say that and mean it!? Probably a few, but I still thought it was cool.


Things worthy of notice. Lindsay picked out those candles and was very proud of them. My mom made the dress Lindsay is wearing. I think it was made for her birthday if I'm remembering it correctly. I showed Jeff how to make the pompoms, but he and the girls made them. He lovingly strung them up under my picky guidance. With the threat of rain we did get a rainbow. If you can't tell one of Lindsay's favorite colors is pink.

sigh

Why can't I have one thing go right? Just one. Please? (rubbing forehead)

On a less winy note, Jeff's interview went perfect. It couldn't have gone better. Maybe him getting the job will be my one thing right. Please Lord?

Good news!

Jeff has a job interview tomorrow!!! I'm so excited. This one is for a job we've been hoping for for a while now. YAY! Cross your fingers, I know I am. :)

It's about time

Abbey wants me to put something up about her new glasses. She opted for the same frames, just a different color. So, with out further ado....

Old and Busted

New Hotness

Lest we forget Lindsay

Abbey's new glasses were greatly needed. Not just because her other pair were broken either. Her prescription had drastically changed from last year. So, for about the first hour of receiving them, we got to hear about how she had never really seen all the world had to offer before. Spontaneously bursting into song, "I can see clearly now the rain has gone!" Good times.

So what'cha what'cha what'cha want?

Me: Oh Lindsay Lou! Your birthday's coming up ya know.

Lou: Oh, I know Momma. I've been thinking about it for a while.

Me: So, you've put some thought into what you want?

Lou: I got it covered.

Me: MmmK.

I didn't think much more of that conversation. The day went on like it usually does. The girls went to bed. After a few hours past I followed. Upon waking up and about to head downstairs I find that Lindsay had posted something to her door.

What the what? It was a birthday list, nay, a birthday wish poster! My heart swelled with pride. I love the moments when you see bits of yourself shine through in your children. So creative! So well done! So completely her idea! Abbey liked it so much, she made one for herself too.
I have to say, they're very helpful. I should make one and put it on my door. {smile}

So, what was in the Box of Awesome?

It's embarrassing how long it took me to mail out the Box of Awesome this year. I finally did it though. Last Wednesday, the girls and I set out to get everything made and shipped by golly!

Mike Brinkerhoff won this year and he requested goodies. I do know that Mike loves peanut butter. What goes great with peanut butter? Jelly. That's right, er, well, I went with chocolate. That goes great too! They made an edible cup out of that combo after all.

What did I make? The possibilities were endless. I opted for brownies topped with peanut butter fudge and marshmallows.
Kettle corn with a peanut butter chocolate drizzle.
And last, but not at all least. Hot peanut butter fudge. All from scratch I might add.I threw in a few other little goodies. A balloon launcher, cuz, well, I think it sounded like fun. Mike is a fun guy, so there ya go. Those washcloths that are supper compressed until they hit the water. The fact that they were some of my favorite Sesame Street characters didn't hurt either. (Death to Elmo) A large candy Resse's Peanut Butter Cup candy bar. A box of Peanut Butter Captain Crunch. I threw in a bag of Lindt Peanut Butter Truffles for good measure.
Fweew, check the Box of Awesome off my "this is now embarrassing" list. Hope you loved your box Mike. Awesome box, Awesome guy!

Saying goodbye, why is it sad? .....

.....Makes us remember the good times we've had. Much more to say, foolish to try. It's time for saying goodbye. (tear)
Muppets Take Manhattan folks, check it out.

The beginning of June marked a sad moment in Abbey and Lindsay's lives. Their best friends of nearly 4 years moved away. Kaylee and Kassidy lived right behind us. Kaylee and Abbey were a set. Kassidy and Lindsay were a pair. They shared birthdays, teachers, holidays, summer evenings, laughter, and tears. They weren't moving under happy circumstances either, which makes it harder. They now reside in Pennsylvania with their Mom and her family.

I do know that the girls still play Webkins together, email back and forth, and Kaylee called Abbey on her birthday. They were on the phone for an hour.

I can tell that Abbey and Lindsay's zest for summer is slightly diminished since their bosom friends moved. I hope they can stay in touch. I also hope that Abbey and Lindsay can meet someone new...don't tell them that though.

Somehow I know, we'll meet again.
Not sure quite where and
I don't know just when.
You're in my heart.
So until then,
Wanna smile,
Wanna cry,
Saying Goodbye.


we miss you

Flashlight decorating contest?

As I mentioned before in other posts, this was Abbey's first year at girls camp.

We attended one of the pre-camp meetings. This would've been a huge waste of our time if it weren't for the little words "flashlight" "decorating" and "contest" uttered in combination with "I'm the reining queen. No one beats me." ( I must make it clear that I didn't say this, the camp director did. I've never been in a flashlight decorating contest before.)

HA! Until NOW!!! HA!

I love a challenge. Especially in a category I know I'm good at. It's on baby. Abbey straitened up and looked interested for the first time too, she was definitely on board.

Abbey- "Momma. Do you think we could decorate a flashlight?"

Me- "Absolutely."

Abbey- "Do you think we might win?"

Me- "Oh Abbey, you don't even need to worry about it.
They won't know what hit em"

Abbey and Me- (rubbing our hands menacingly) "heh heh heh eh heh, excelent."


I had drawings of 10 different concept flashlights the following day. After presenting them to Abbey we had to decide the best materials to achieve the best look.

Materials: model magic, markers, craft foam, and stick on jems.

The finished product? Jeff named her Birdie.

Did she win? OH YAH SHE DID!!! WHOOOOOO!!!
See ya next year!

End of the school year

I know, school has been out for a while. I still need to talk about the notables.

Lindsay had her end of school 4th grade concert. She got all spiffied up and lookin' good. Oh ya, she curled her own hair, so proud. She sang her little heart out and hand gestured with the best of them.

I have to let you know, I do not like going to those concerts. They pack that gym so full that if you don't arrive early enough (at least 30 min) you're going to stand for the whole thing. It then gets really hot and at times smelly. I sometimes get a little antsy around large confined crowds. I went though, cuz I love her!

Abbey had received a special award at the end of the year from her school. She was nominated and selected for a Citizenship Award by her teachers. This is a really special honor since it comes from the teachers that see her everyday. Only two other kids were selected to receive this. I attended the awards ceremony and I was so proud. I always new Abbey was kind, helpful, respectful, and just an all around great kid. Now, I have a paper to prove she's bona fide!

Ballet on Broadway

Lindsay's potentially last ballet performance happened at the end of May. Instead of a classic ballet they opted for a more traditional recital.

Broadway was the theme this year. Lindsay's dances were to Jellicle Cats and I Feel Pretty. I Feel Pretty was definitely the stronger performance of the two. She did great.

I feel bad that we didn't get very many pictures this year. The video camera ran out of tape after a few seconds of her first dance too. I don't want to blame anyone here (coughjeffcough), but a mistake was made. She did look beautiful though.

After her show we took her out to eat at the place of her choice...Golden Coral. Oh yeaaaaaah. The last picture is that of Lindsay and her teacher Miss Sandra.

4th of July, 10 days later

I love the 4th of July. It's a big holiday for our family. The best were spent at aunt Doris' pool. We'd get there about 11:30 and us kids made a B line for the pool. Living in the Tri-Cities almost always promised a hot lovely day. The food was always plentiful and good. The day went like this, swim and eat. Swim and eat. Launch each other off of the inflated water bed mattress and then more swimming. If we were lucky, my mom's little brothers would be there. It was then guaranteed our days fun to be magnified 10x.

We set off our own fireworks. I miss that. Seeing the block come together with a show of pyrotechnic American pride. Running in the front yard with sparklers. Homemade ice cream passed to the neighbors.

The DeCoursey family got just a little bit of that nostalgia back this year my friends. Tired at the thought of going anywhere for the 4th, we opted for staying home. We did want to go over to Seattle, but it would've been too short of notice.

The weather report wasn't good for the 4th. It got to just about 71 that day, much to cold to swim or play in the water. The girls didn't seem to mind much. Lindsay did give the slip n slide a try, I must commend her for that.

We thought a good way to pass the time till the evening was to go to the movies. Popcorn and soda were only a dollar and the movie was 5 bucks a person. Good deal. The girls picked 'The Last Airbender'. We all loved it.

Jeff grilled burgers and riblets, I made your typical side dishes. I was quite proud of the watermelon-strawberry-lemonade, very refreshing.

I must make it clear that fireworks are banned in our area and we always follow the rules....heh. Evening came and the girls could wait no longer. The sparklers must be used (or maybe they weren't)!!! Our whole neighborhood was lit up with personal displays of fireworks (allegedly). People even splurged on large aerial explosions (somewhere else). Jeff and the girls played with ground bloom flowers (for pretend only, I swear). We also had a gorgeous fountain that was huge and seemed to go on forever. It was so loud! (I'll deny it to the end)
Before bed, we broke out the homemade ice cream. Delicious.

Next year, I think we'll be up at the Brinkerhoff lake houses. I hope it will be hot next year, I hope, I hope!

Surprise, it's a cake!

We were in Kennewick during Labor Day weekend. Jeff needed to work through the weekend and we did want to see him.

I'd spied this cake a while ago. I loved it and had to try it. It was really fun to let the kids guess what flavor it was going to be.


So, I got the recipe here. I was really interested in it because the recipe used real fruit in each layer. Real fruit? Oooooo that sounds marvelous! This will be the bestest cake EVAH!!! Sadly, it is after making it that I realized it only sounds good in theory. You could really only tell the flavors in the citrus layers. The fresh fruit also imparted an undesirable spongy texture to the cake. No worries though. I'm always looking for ways to improve things. If I ever venture to make this cake again (unlikely) I think I'll use kool-aid powder to flavor each layer. I think it'll bring a nice artificial froot loop quality. Completely acceptable when you take into account the amount of food coloring you add. You'd expect that to be the flavor. Organic shmorganic.

I'm sorry, but I'm just thinking of the right words to say.

With the faint smell of candle smoke still hanging in the air, it reminds me that I do have things I need to report. I don't know if you want to know all of the reasons as to why I haven't blogged in like, forever. I'll spare you the boring details. Let's just say, depression, lack of interest, nothing to say, and no access to the much easier to use laptop. Blah, blah, blah. Well, I was looking at the pictures that have been on my memory card since May today. I did have things to talk about. Life isn't all that bad, really, so try to wash that depression right out of my hair and use the desktop. I have a lot to say.

Sunday was Abbey's birthday. My sweet little lovely is now 12. Sigh, 12. She had just spent the prior week at girls camp. A sleep away church camp, just for girls... Anywho, we didn't really have the time to put together a party this year. We told her she could do whatever she wanted to do. She wanted to have lunch at Red Lobster and then hang out at the mall. Hanging out at the mall? No thanks, I'll hang out on the bench and read my latest book of choice while you cavort about with your sister. I'm in a Ray Bradbury kick. The 'Illustrated Man' is what I'm working on right now, work probably not the best word. Soaking in, enjoying, relishing, you get the drift.

Abbey would like you to know that the Chinchilla Webkins (AKA Chico) is the bestest Webkins ever made, next to the Alley Cat (AKA Thomas). I'm sure Abbey will do a post about all of her presents. Mean while, Abbey and Lindsay had been watching YouTube clips of Chinchilla's being adorable all afternoon. I tried to entice them with the slip n slide to no avail.
One summer birthday down, two more to go. Lindsay handled Abbey's birthday remarkably well this year I might add. Very proud. I have two beautiful, sweet, smart, confident, lovely girls.

Happy Birthday my dear little Abbert!