Chayse has been patiently awaiting tomorrow for years. Tomorrow she will begin her first day of kindergarten.
Tomorrow I will take all the kids to school for the first time in 14+ years.
Tomorrow Kiahra is nervously anticipating.
Tomorrow Kade will begin his final year of elementary school.
Tomorrow marks the beginning of September.
Today is the last day of summer vacation.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Girls
We have a few at our house. Ask Kade.
Girls are cool. Don't ask Kade.
Kiahra enrolled in the hunter safety course this weekend. She was the only girl.
She rocked her 100 question exam. She now has her hunter safety card, so she can join the annual hunting party to Grandpa's.
One of the boy's in her class was giving her advice. He told her all she really needed to remember was to keep the muzzle pointed away at all times.
Kiahra was enamored with his brilliance...NOT.
Nikela and Kiahra are good with a gun. It intimidated a few of the boys in the last neighborhood. I am sure they are the only girls in the neighborhood that will hunt with their father this fall.
He is a pretty cool pa that empowers his girls!
Girls are cool. Don't ask Kade.
Kiahra enrolled in the hunter safety course this weekend. She was the only girl.
She rocked her 100 question exam. She now has her hunter safety card, so she can join the annual hunting party to Grandpa's.
One of the boy's in her class was giving her advice. He told her all she really needed to remember was to keep the muzzle pointed away at all times.
Kiahra was enamored with his brilliance...NOT.
Nikela and Kiahra are good with a gun. It intimidated a few of the boys in the last neighborhood. I am sure they are the only girls in the neighborhood that will hunt with their father this fall.
He is a pretty cool pa that empowers his girls!
Thursday, August 26, 2010
You're kiddin' right...
right??
This morning I was sitting amongst the commuters at the light on our daily trek to school. As I turned to talk to Nikela, I caught a women's movement a couple lanes over. She had a lighter in her hand, but she bent very low and then sat up. This behavior struck me as odd, so I watched her. First she twirled a few strands of her curly ponytail. She was driving a small SUV. A large ring flashed on her left hand. She was hugging middle age. Suddenly, she brought the lighter up again, and this time she brought the gold pipe to her mouth not quite as discreetly as before. I gasped in horror.
Intrigued by my distraction, Nikela followed my gaze and watched as the woman took a third hit before roaring through the light.
Seriously?? At 6:30 AM my daughter witnesses a woman smoking pot on her daily commute to work? And I am driving on the same road putting my daughter's life at increased risk??
I merge on the interstate a bit horrified. While the presence of marijuana abounds here from the wafting smoke in parks and grocery store parking lots to the plants that are everywhere...even on the job sight...even in fields that are guarded by young boys that are gunned down during the raids, the proponents of Proposition 19 assure folks in their literature that marijuana users are responsible...unlike all the other legal and illegal drug users out there.
While I am quick to point out the inherent flaws in their arguments, I really wanted to believe that this level of irresponsibility didn't exist.
Proposition 19 is beginning to look a lot like a loophole for drug users to me. Intolerant of their decision to smoke? Definitely. Particularly as the current trend is to lace marijuana with other drugs. Americans are fearful of being labelled intolerant; however, giving my tolerance to drug users is giving them power and leaves me scuttling past the park gripping the hands of my children hoping we arrive home safely. The recent massacre in Mexico at the hands of the drug cartel was terrifying. I want my power back to be a morally responsible citizen. I do not want to be terrified of the repercussions of my intolerance for their intolerable behavior choices made under the influence.
This morning I was sitting amongst the commuters at the light on our daily trek to school. As I turned to talk to Nikela, I caught a women's movement a couple lanes over. She had a lighter in her hand, but she bent very low and then sat up. This behavior struck me as odd, so I watched her. First she twirled a few strands of her curly ponytail. She was driving a small SUV. A large ring flashed on her left hand. She was hugging middle age. Suddenly, she brought the lighter up again, and this time she brought the gold pipe to her mouth not quite as discreetly as before. I gasped in horror.
Intrigued by my distraction, Nikela followed my gaze and watched as the woman took a third hit before roaring through the light.
Seriously?? At 6:30 AM my daughter witnesses a woman smoking pot on her daily commute to work? And I am driving on the same road putting my daughter's life at increased risk??
I merge on the interstate a bit horrified. While the presence of marijuana abounds here from the wafting smoke in parks and grocery store parking lots to the plants that are everywhere...even on the job sight...even in fields that are guarded by young boys that are gunned down during the raids, the proponents of Proposition 19 assure folks in their literature that marijuana users are responsible...unlike all the other legal and illegal drug users out there.
While I am quick to point out the inherent flaws in their arguments, I really wanted to believe that this level of irresponsibility didn't exist.
Proposition 19 is beginning to look a lot like a loophole for drug users to me. Intolerant of their decision to smoke? Definitely. Particularly as the current trend is to lace marijuana with other drugs. Americans are fearful of being labelled intolerant; however, giving my tolerance to drug users is giving them power and leaves me scuttling past the park gripping the hands of my children hoping we arrive home safely. The recent massacre in Mexico at the hands of the drug cartel was terrifying. I want my power back to be a morally responsible citizen. I do not want to be terrified of the repercussions of my intolerance for their intolerable behavior choices made under the influence.
UV Index
Yesterday, as I was scoping out the weather page, I discovered the UV Index. As I studied the index, I was not even remotely suprised that the forecast was a 10 on a scale of one to ten. Frankly, I didn't need an index to tell me the sun is hot here. I already knew that if you were outside for an hour without sunscreen even my tanned arms would be red. No one even sells sunscreen with an SPF below 50. There is no point.
As record temperatures fell here and I enjoyed the feel of summer along with most citizens, it was hot.
It was so hot that the CalTrain had to slow down the trains to reduce damage to the heat softened tracks. The BART (subway) was slowed to 25 mph. Stores dimmed their lights to conserve energy.
Summer is over again. It was 57 degrees again this morning...and I am not complaining!
As record temperatures fell here and I enjoyed the feel of summer along with most citizens, it was hot.
It was so hot that the CalTrain had to slow down the trains to reduce damage to the heat softened tracks. The BART (subway) was slowed to 25 mph. Stores dimmed their lights to conserve energy.
Summer is over again. It was 57 degrees again this morning...and I am not complaining!
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
80s
While I was raised in the 80s, I am beyond the big hair and makeup, though the return of the essence of the style keeps me entertained as my girls try on skinny jeans with big shirts and belts!
But what truly excited me about the 80s today was the weather forecast! A high of 88 is unprecedented in my short California experience. It was around 80 on the 4th of July, and since then it has hovered in the upper 60s and lower 70s with very cool evenings.
Yesterday Dad told me it was 104 in South Dakota. While I wasn't exactly jealous, I did feel a twinge of disappointed that the weather here really hasn't felt like summer to me, but unlike Mark Twain who felt the summer he spent in San Francisco was the coldest winter he had experienced (after growing up in Missouri), I do not find it near as cold as a good Midwestern winter, just comfortable.
Nonetheless, I looked forward to the day like a child eyeing a giant lollipop. I found my favorite shorts and embraced the day.
The day turned out to be hot--95 degrees! I even turned the air conditioner on for the first time! Tomorrow a heat warning has been issued for 101 degrees. Admittedly, the California sun is definitely hot, but today I enjoyed the feel of summer even though I didn't have time to go to the pool or the ocean where one should bask in the warmth! (with lots and lots of sunscreen)
It is 10:00 PM, and it is still warm enough for shorts, as it is still 70 degrees instead of 59! I had to wait until August 23, but summer has finally arrived for a few days! WoooooooWeeeeeeee!
But what truly excited me about the 80s today was the weather forecast! A high of 88 is unprecedented in my short California experience. It was around 80 on the 4th of July, and since then it has hovered in the upper 60s and lower 70s with very cool evenings.
Yesterday Dad told me it was 104 in South Dakota. While I wasn't exactly jealous, I did feel a twinge of disappointed that the weather here really hasn't felt like summer to me, but unlike Mark Twain who felt the summer he spent in San Francisco was the coldest winter he had experienced (after growing up in Missouri), I do not find it near as cold as a good Midwestern winter, just comfortable.
Nonetheless, I looked forward to the day like a child eyeing a giant lollipop. I found my favorite shorts and embraced the day.
The day turned out to be hot--95 degrees! I even turned the air conditioner on for the first time! Tomorrow a heat warning has been issued for 101 degrees. Admittedly, the California sun is definitely hot, but today I enjoyed the feel of summer even though I didn't have time to go to the pool or the ocean where one should bask in the warmth! (with lots and lots of sunscreen)
It is 10:00 PM, and it is still warm enough for shorts, as it is still 70 degrees instead of 59! I had to wait until August 23, but summer has finally arrived for a few days! WoooooooWeeeeeeee!
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Waitin'
Brad Paisley sings "Waitin' on Woman," and as much as I hate to admit it my husband waits on a woman too...well, sometimes women (all four). Kade is already familiar with the reality that when a girl says it will just be a minute it may be a bit longer, but nonetheless he waits patiently too (though if the two of them can escape--they will in the blink of an eye). However, as he sits here beside me this morning he is giggling because he read the first line of my blog, and when he told me he liked that song, I asked him if it was true and if he really minded, and he silently pleaded the fifth with twinkling eyes and laughter.
As we were updating information at the bank yesterday (yes, as Ron waited), the banker commented on our pretty young girls keeping their dad waiting, and I could hear the song in my head.
"...Boy it's just a fact of life
It'll be the same with your young wife
Might as well go on and get used to it
She'll take her time 'cause you don't mind
Waitin' on a woman
I've read somewhere statistics show
The man's always the first to go
And that makes sense 'cause I know she won't be ready..."
As we were updating information at the bank yesterday (yes, as Ron waited), the banker commented on our pretty young girls keeping their dad waiting, and I could hear the song in my head.
"...Boy it's just a fact of life
It'll be the same with your young wife
Might as well go on and get used to it
She'll take her time 'cause you don't mind
Waitin' on a woman
I've read somewhere statistics show
The man's always the first to go
And that makes sense 'cause I know she won't be ready..."
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Zoo
Happy Birthday to you,
You live in a zoo,
You look like a monkey,
And you smell like one too!
My brother would taunt me with this modified version of Happy Birthday. I know he drove me crazy, and I am sure we drove my mother crazy with our banter...so mom, I dedicate this song to you for your birthday today. A complimentary trip down memory lane to remind you to enjoy the peace and quiet of the office on your special day!
However, I did go to the San Francisco Zoo yesterday. Nikela went to school, and the rest of my monkeys piled in along with three extras. In the last post, my husband pointed out that I live in a zoo, but sometimes a change of scenery is nice!
Speaking of primates...the little guy was adorable.
My personal favorite of the day was an African bird...can't recall the name. Love his color!
The hair...utterly fantastic. (Breathe, mom, I think I will leave this 'do to the bird who can carry it off!)
The gardener was pulling special treats for the tortoises, and Kade was his first helper and scored the largest beet!
The black swan sports a look that could freeze kids in their tracks. I am going to practice it.
Perhaps the swan is just daring you not to enjoy your special day, Mom! We love you and miss you!
You live in a zoo,
You look like a monkey,
And you smell like one too!
My brother would taunt me with this modified version of Happy Birthday. I know he drove me crazy, and I am sure we drove my mother crazy with our banter...so mom, I dedicate this song to you for your birthday today. A complimentary trip down memory lane to remind you to enjoy the peace and quiet of the office on your special day!
However, I did go to the San Francisco Zoo yesterday. Nikela went to school, and the rest of my monkeys piled in along with three extras. In the last post, my husband pointed out that I live in a zoo, but sometimes a change of scenery is nice!
Speaking of primates...the little guy was adorable.
My personal favorite of the day was an African bird...can't recall the name. Love his color!
The hair...utterly fantastic. (Breathe, mom, I think I will leave this 'do to the bird who can carry it off!)
The gardener was pulling special treats for the tortoises, and Kade was his first helper and scored the largest beet!
The black swan sports a look that could freeze kids in their tracks. I am going to practice it.
Perhaps the swan is just daring you not to enjoy your special day, Mom! We love you and miss you!
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Voices
From another room I hear...
"Mom!"
"Yes..." I reluctantly reply.
"When are we going to the circus?"
"I do not know. We may not go."
"But we have to!"
"Really?" I question hoping to evade a plea bargain session.
"Yes," came the urgent reply, "we have a clown to return."
Shrieks of laughter follow as Kade tackles his sister for her attempt to "return" him.
"Mom!"
"Yes..." I reluctantly reply.
"When are we going to the circus?"
"I do not know. We may not go."
"But we have to!"
"Really?" I question hoping to evade a plea bargain session.
"Yes," came the urgent reply, "we have a clown to return."
Shrieks of laughter follow as Kade tackles his sister for her attempt to "return" him.
Monday, August 16, 2010
First Day of School
Nikela started high school today. I made her step into the backyard...just for a moment to pause under the magnolia tree, so I could take my traditional back to school photo.
Then we were off, navigating the California freeway together this morning enroute to school. It was a bit stressful, and I exited early, but nonetheless we found the school again, and as I pulled up she grabbed her backpack and jumped out. A few moments later I was back in traffic again. She paused to look back at me with a slight wave of the hand. Immediately the tears squeezed out of the corners of my eyes and and ran down my face as I watched that beautiful face turn back away and the silhouette of her slender, tall body with blonde hair walk down the sidewalk towards the school.
It was a quiet morning. She was up early. Smiling. Pausing to chat with me in the kitchen as I created her favorite breakfast...biscuits and gravy. She good-naturedly indulged me a couple snapshots. Composed, quiet...no hint of anxiety though I know inside she had to be apprehensive about walking into a new school where she knows not one, single solitary person except the counselor, Miss Watson. Courageous.
I am so proud of her. It was a just a few years ago that I snapped this photo of my beautiful little girl. First day of kindergarten in Montana.
Forever, she will be my little girl which is why my heart is fluttering today and the tears are quick to pool, as I desperately cling to the hope that her first day of school is manageable, even fun. Hoping someone will smile and introduce themselves. Hoping her teachers sense her shyness and reach out. Hoping...to see her beautiful smile at the end of the day.
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Thursday, August 12, 2010
DMV
I returned. My documents complete. Smog free.
Do you have your plate?
You mean the one of my vehicle?
Yes.
Do you want me to go get it?
Yes.
Now?
Yes.
Out to the parking lot I go ill-equipped and wondering if I will be able to find a screwdriver. Pillaging through the odds and ends, I found our old Montana Rail Link key chain. A solid thin key chain. Perfect.
License plate delivered. New ones presented.
Back out in the parking lot I sat on the curb, and Montana Rail Link and I installed the front plate and then around back for the rear plate as I pondered the irony of Montana Rail Link. Billings, MT was our first move. We shipped wool to South Carolina on this train.
Finished. Officially Californian.
Did I mention that I was pulled over the other day for a brake light that was out? The policeman carefully quizzed me on where I was going and why I was there. I know he was trying to determine how long I had been in Foster City, and if I was in violation of the 20 day registration and license policy.
Safe to drive again.
DMV Proficiency: misspelled the street name and overcharged me $202.00 for my vehicle registration yesterday. Mistakes corrected today. I should receive my refund in 3 weeks...or so. I wonder why the rules are different for them? I must license in 20 days or fees accrue. I think I should receive my refund today or fees accrue...daily.
Thoughts??
Do you have your plate?
You mean the one of my vehicle?
Yes.
Do you want me to go get it?
Yes.
Now?
Yes.
Out to the parking lot I go ill-equipped and wondering if I will be able to find a screwdriver. Pillaging through the odds and ends, I found our old Montana Rail Link key chain. A solid thin key chain. Perfect.
License plate delivered. New ones presented.
Back out in the parking lot I sat on the curb, and Montana Rail Link and I installed the front plate and then around back for the rear plate as I pondered the irony of Montana Rail Link. Billings, MT was our first move. We shipped wool to South Carolina on this train.
Finished. Officially Californian.
Did I mention that I was pulled over the other day for a brake light that was out? The policeman carefully quizzed me on where I was going and why I was there. I know he was trying to determine how long I had been in Foster City, and if I was in violation of the 20 day registration and license policy.
Safe to drive again.
DMV Proficiency: misspelled the street name and overcharged me $202.00 for my vehicle registration yesterday. Mistakes corrected today. I should receive my refund in 3 weeks...or so. I wonder why the rules are different for them? I must license in 20 days or fees accrue. I think I should receive my refund today or fees accrue...daily.
Thoughts??
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Mug Shot
1:44. The time I spent at the Department of Motor Vehicles today.
I am not sure I have ever renewed my driver's license. Instead I just get a new one every few years. Despite the frequency, I have yet to have a good photo. I am particularly worried about this one. The young man taking pictures was very disinterested in his job and the line was long.
I also have had the "opportunity" to take a few written tests through the years. I passed another one today. Whew!
Tomorrow I must return with my smog test and Ron's signature, and my Yukon will sport California plates. For the price of the plates, the simple white plate is disappointing. Maybe some gold inlays would make me feel better.
The lady assisting me warned me that due to system furloughs the office may not be open Friday. Then the gentleman behind me in one of the many lines I was standing in today told me he had arrived at 8 AM when the DMV begins daily operations, but the doors didn't open until 9:30 AM. Evidently, the state just operates on a day to day budget and that determines the hours of access?
Equally fascinating was my vehicle inspection. Another kind gentleman came out to inspect my vehicle and examine the VIN number. I opened the hood for him where he studied the stickers for a long time before hesitantly asking, "It is a diesel?" His question as a statement format made me pause, but a I gazed at the motor I answered definitively, "NO. It operates on gas and E85. No diesel."
In happier news, but equally demosntrative of the proficiency in the California government offices operate, Nikela was finally enrolled at her local high school...after freshman orientation was over. Tomorrow we are scheduled to register. I cleared the whole afternoon...just in case.
I am not sure I have ever renewed my driver's license. Instead I just get a new one every few years. Despite the frequency, I have yet to have a good photo. I am particularly worried about this one. The young man taking pictures was very disinterested in his job and the line was long.
I also have had the "opportunity" to take a few written tests through the years. I passed another one today. Whew!
Tomorrow I must return with my smog test and Ron's signature, and my Yukon will sport California plates. For the price of the plates, the simple white plate is disappointing. Maybe some gold inlays would make me feel better.
The lady assisting me warned me that due to system furloughs the office may not be open Friday. Then the gentleman behind me in one of the many lines I was standing in today told me he had arrived at 8 AM when the DMV begins daily operations, but the doors didn't open until 9:30 AM. Evidently, the state just operates on a day to day budget and that determines the hours of access?
Equally fascinating was my vehicle inspection. Another kind gentleman came out to inspect my vehicle and examine the VIN number. I opened the hood for him where he studied the stickers for a long time before hesitantly asking, "It is a diesel?" His question as a statement format made me pause, but a I gazed at the motor I answered definitively, "NO. It operates on gas and E85. No diesel."
In happier news, but equally demosntrative of the proficiency in the California government offices operate, Nikela was finally enrolled at her local high school...after freshman orientation was over. Tomorrow we are scheduled to register. I cleared the whole afternoon...just in case.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Waiting...
As I stood on the front porch of our little cabin in the Smoky Mountains, my sister informed me I would be an aunt again soon. I gasped in utter delight and surprise.
I remember my mind racing to comprehend this unexpected news as I gazed out at the trees surrounding us...at the tiny buds on all those limbs. Life. A beautiful gift. But...I was going to be an aunt!
My sisters are very special to me. Sharing these moments with them always, always fills my heart with joy.
I have been waiting for today. We all have been waiting for today as we have speculated on whether it would be a boy or girs, oscillating between visions of clouds of billowly pink or cute cubs outfits.
As I dialed the phone, Kade's words came back to me. We were shopping in the mall the other day and we stopped to look at the baby department. He told me he secretly wished Kristi would have a girl"...well, it doesn't really matter too much...but little girls are so sweet." Kade loves babies and babies love Kade. He has been closely following Aunt Kristi's pregnancy from afar. He wonders how big her belly is now remembering the little baby bump she had a couple months ago. He is curious about how the baby grows and moves. He laments not being able to watch Aunt Kristi and see Uncle Kevin as the baby grows. He too has been waiting for today.
Kevin and Kristi watched the 3-D ultrasound, and I know that their hearts were pattering in anticipation and wonder...wonder of this little person that soon would introduce itself into their world. Kevin liked to boss the baby around a bit and remind it who was boss, so they could see the views they wanted.
She complied. He was thrilled. The facade of her listening to her pa will continue for many years. She will blink and smile and he will melt. Only his toughness will exude itself as she grows older and the boys pause to admire her, but that is many years from now.
In the meantime, he will don a pink burp cloth on that giant shoulder and those calloused, stained mechanics hands will gentle hold and cuddle that tiny bundle of wonder when she arrives.
Theoretically, that day is December 7. On our grandfather's birthday. Like all girls, though, she will arrive when she is ready...and we won't mind at all...whenever that is.
Parenthood. Congratulations Kevin and Kristi! We love you! We cannot wait to meet your new little girl.
In the meantime, I am waiting, waiting, waiting...today, for pictures.
I remember my mind racing to comprehend this unexpected news as I gazed out at the trees surrounding us...at the tiny buds on all those limbs. Life. A beautiful gift. But...I was going to be an aunt!
My sisters are very special to me. Sharing these moments with them always, always fills my heart with joy.
I have been waiting for today. We all have been waiting for today as we have speculated on whether it would be a boy or girs, oscillating between visions of clouds of billowly pink or cute cubs outfits.
As I dialed the phone, Kade's words came back to me. We were shopping in the mall the other day and we stopped to look at the baby department. He told me he secretly wished Kristi would have a girl"...well, it doesn't really matter too much...but little girls are so sweet." Kade loves babies and babies love Kade. He has been closely following Aunt Kristi's pregnancy from afar. He wonders how big her belly is now remembering the little baby bump she had a couple months ago. He is curious about how the baby grows and moves. He laments not being able to watch Aunt Kristi and see Uncle Kevin as the baby grows. He too has been waiting for today.
Kevin and Kristi watched the 3-D ultrasound, and I know that their hearts were pattering in anticipation and wonder...wonder of this little person that soon would introduce itself into their world. Kevin liked to boss the baby around a bit and remind it who was boss, so they could see the views they wanted.
She complied. He was thrilled. The facade of her listening to her pa will continue for many years. She will blink and smile and he will melt. Only his toughness will exude itself as she grows older and the boys pause to admire her, but that is many years from now.
In the meantime, he will don a pink burp cloth on that giant shoulder and those calloused, stained mechanics hands will gentle hold and cuddle that tiny bundle of wonder when she arrives.
Theoretically, that day is December 7. On our grandfather's birthday. Like all girls, though, she will arrive when she is ready...and we won't mind at all...whenever that is.
Parenthood. Congratulations Kevin and Kristi! We love you! We cannot wait to meet your new little girl.
In the meantime, I am waiting, waiting, waiting...today, for pictures.
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Fishing
Saturday morning came very early for Kade. At 4:00 AM he was en route to the fishing boat waiting at the dock on San Francisco Bay in Oakland, CA. As the boat idled out, the instructions on ocean fishing and safety were given by the crew. Kade absorbed it like a sponge afraid he might miss something. He was so intrigued with his ocean adventure.
After an hour of cruising across the water, it was time to bring out the poles and tackle. Trolling for a couple hours, two salmon were caught before heading farther out into the ocean. The lean cod wasn't 24 inches so it went back to the comfort of the ocean, though Kade assured me it had some big teeth.
A friendly pelican kept an eye on all the action.
Jellyfish were abundant, bumping into the lines.
The boat cruised further out into the ocean and headed north. Finally...Kade's pole dropped its weight. Kade then reeled in his catch. He worked hard, adrenaline pumping to bring in that fish! His arm ached for the rest of the day...but at the end of the line was a big ol' salmon. I think his grin matches the size of the fish.
"It's my lucky day," he sang quietly to himself as he danced around the boat in utter delight. Of course, this was after he mastered the art of accommodating the rocking of the boat. Kade described the waves hitting the side of the boat and how it sent him scrambling..."it felt just like I was learning to walk."
Cruising under the Golden Gate was spectacular sporting the best view of the bridge.
Last night Kade confided he couldn't even sleep because he felt like he was still on the ocean whenever he shut his eyes.
After an hour of cruising across the water, it was time to bring out the poles and tackle. Trolling for a couple hours, two salmon were caught before heading farther out into the ocean. The lean cod wasn't 24 inches so it went back to the comfort of the ocean, though Kade assured me it had some big teeth.
A friendly pelican kept an eye on all the action.
Jellyfish were abundant, bumping into the lines.
The boat cruised further out into the ocean and headed north. Finally...Kade's pole dropped its weight. Kade then reeled in his catch. He worked hard, adrenaline pumping to bring in that fish! His arm ached for the rest of the day...but at the end of the line was a big ol' salmon. I think his grin matches the size of the fish.
"It's my lucky day," he sang quietly to himself as he danced around the boat in utter delight. Of course, this was after he mastered the art of accommodating the rocking of the boat. Kade described the waves hitting the side of the boat and how it sent him scrambling..."it felt just like I was learning to walk."
Cruising under the Golden Gate was spectacular sporting the best view of the bridge.
Last night Kade confided he couldn't even sleep because he felt like he was still on the ocean whenever he shut his eyes.
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Et cetera
Chayse was playing wii this morning when she discovered the tv remote. "Mommy, now I can make it louder. I can't hear it because my ears are so small."
The week in review...California.
First amendment zones abound here. I first discovered the allocated areas for first amendment rights to be exercised in the Muir Woods--"First Amendment Area: This area has been set aside for individuals or groups exercising their constitutional first amendment rights. The National Park Service neither encourages nor discourages, or otherwise endorses, these activities and receives no funds in relation to these activities." In California there is evidently a history of free speech zones which are generally a designated area of public places. There has been a lot of activity at these areas this week with Proposition 8.
Of course, my personal favorite is the elaborate lavender hat bopping around to an unheard beat on one of the corners of El Camino Real. The wearer dances with her large sign that is so covered in words I cannot even begin to decipher it...not to mention the other three signs propped up next to the grocery carts. I cannot help but wonder what she is so happy about as she dances...and I am curious about all those words...then the light changes and I move on with a vision of the bouncing purple hat.
Then a young man was driving in front of me in his little car on a busy six lane route in Belmont. Suddenly he stops and throws on his flashers. Three solid lanes of traffic. I am stuck directly behind him the curb is merely six inches away and solid red (since I am studying for my California driving test, I know this means NO PARKING). I don't know if my big rig intimidated him, but at the last minute he decided to throw it back into drive and through the green light and then did the same thing again...and got mad at me as I pulled around him???? I was almost tempted to just drive over his little illegally parked car.
Finally, a settlement was awarded to the victim who suffered horrific sexual abuse while in foster care with a man who is currently serving 220 years for his crimes. This abuse occurred while foster care was privatized in the 1990s in California. In 1999 California regained control of foster care licenses again due to improperly screened family and the subsequent abuse. Many states are currently transitioning to privatization, so watch closely, as the potential for profit puts all children at risk when agencies improperly screen applicants.
On a lighter note...
Crusin' down the freeway, I was shifting towards the right for my exit, when I slowed for flashing lights and a tow truck with no car in sight...until I spy the mini cooper being filled with gas by the AAA guy. Teeheeheee. I wonder how economical and environmentally friendly it was for him to run out of gas and require a one ton truck to respond with a few gallons of gas.
The week in review...California.
First amendment zones abound here. I first discovered the allocated areas for first amendment rights to be exercised in the Muir Woods--"First Amendment Area: This area has been set aside for individuals or groups exercising their constitutional first amendment rights. The National Park Service neither encourages nor discourages, or otherwise endorses, these activities and receives no funds in relation to these activities." In California there is evidently a history of free speech zones which are generally a designated area of public places. There has been a lot of activity at these areas this week with Proposition 8.
Of course, my personal favorite is the elaborate lavender hat bopping around to an unheard beat on one of the corners of El Camino Real. The wearer dances with her large sign that is so covered in words I cannot even begin to decipher it...not to mention the other three signs propped up next to the grocery carts. I cannot help but wonder what she is so happy about as she dances...and I am curious about all those words...then the light changes and I move on with a vision of the bouncing purple hat.
Then a young man was driving in front of me in his little car on a busy six lane route in Belmont. Suddenly he stops and throws on his flashers. Three solid lanes of traffic. I am stuck directly behind him the curb is merely six inches away and solid red (since I am studying for my California driving test, I know this means NO PARKING). I don't know if my big rig intimidated him, but at the last minute he decided to throw it back into drive and through the green light and then did the same thing again...and got mad at me as I pulled around him???? I was almost tempted to just drive over his little illegally parked car.
Finally, a settlement was awarded to the victim who suffered horrific sexual abuse while in foster care with a man who is currently serving 220 years for his crimes. This abuse occurred while foster care was privatized in the 1990s in California. In 1999 California regained control of foster care licenses again due to improperly screened family and the subsequent abuse. Many states are currently transitioning to privatization, so watch closely, as the potential for profit puts all children at risk when agencies improperly screen applicants.
On a lighter note...
Crusin' down the freeway, I was shifting towards the right for my exit, when I slowed for flashing lights and a tow truck with no car in sight...until I spy the mini cooper being filled with gas by the AAA guy. Teeheeheee. I wonder how economical and environmentally friendly it was for him to run out of gas and require a one ton truck to respond with a few gallons of gas.
Friday, August 6, 2010
Friday...
Cupcakes for breakfast. Irresistible.
Kiahra loves cupcakes. She bakes them regularly, and recently I briefly showed her how to use decorator's tips. I suspect she is going to turn them into an art form.
Additionally, she is exploring all kinds of new recipes for homemade batter. She is learning the intricacies of creating cakes from scratch, so today we are seeking a good sifter.
I love her new obsession. Last night she made mini-cupcakes with confetti cake. They are bite-sized delights. (As you can see in this visionary, unedited photo Nikela insisted on capturing.)
A few days ago, the lime cupcakes she made were utterly divine...even though I never would have paused to consider the recipe.
Of course, all these sweet fingerprints are evidence...
Kiahra loves cupcakes. She bakes them regularly, and recently I briefly showed her how to use decorator's tips. I suspect she is going to turn them into an art form.
Additionally, she is exploring all kinds of new recipes for homemade batter. She is learning the intricacies of creating cakes from scratch, so today we are seeking a good sifter.
I love her new obsession. Last night she made mini-cupcakes with confetti cake. They are bite-sized delights. (As you can see in this visionary, unedited photo Nikela insisted on capturing.)
A few days ago, the lime cupcakes she made were utterly divine...even though I never would have paused to consider the recipe.
Of course, all these sweet fingerprints are evidence...
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Dinner
A few blocks down at the shopping center a little corner store proclaims "Chinese food to go." Amazingly it is very good food. There is always a line. It moves quickly just like the little ladies behind the counter. I love their smiles. They love me. I order lots of food. I can order enough food to feed the family twice for $20. A half-gallon of fried rice is $6.
A deadly combination: Convenient. Cheap. Good.
A deadly combination: Convenient. Cheap. Good.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Recycling
It pays in California. Kade has been dutifully collecting and sorting glass bottles and cans. I am already a conscientious curbside recycler,so the sorting is just one more step. Kade has even collected additional bottles from our friends in the neighborhood to increase his profits.
We made our first trip to the Nexcycle station at nearby CostCo. As we tried to figure out the process, we discovered that aluminum pays the best per pound. Of course, as he read the sign, he turned to me, "Mom they pay for plastic too, and we have lots of that!"
Kade was apprehensive as we waited for our payout. I handed him $6.30. He grinned from ear to ear in relief. He was worried he wouldn't even score a couple dollars (not realizing the weight of glass).
He has carefully and meticulously sorted his recyclables for a couple weeks; however, he will be able to go weekly now that he has figured out the process.
After we returned home, he began re-designing his system to collect plastic. He is separating the types of plastic by bag, as the payout is different for each.
A little later, Kade told me he needs a wallet for his money. He wants to save it for an iTouch.
This project is teaching Kade so much. Foremost, it is increasing his awareness of garbage and the impact of what we buy on the environment (he already prefers aluminum). Secondly, it is teaching him good business practices as he learns to maximize his returns. Thirdly, I hope it will teach him how to be patient and save for something special.
We made our first trip to the Nexcycle station at nearby CostCo. As we tried to figure out the process, we discovered that aluminum pays the best per pound. Of course, as he read the sign, he turned to me, "Mom they pay for plastic too, and we have lots of that!"
Kade was apprehensive as we waited for our payout. I handed him $6.30. He grinned from ear to ear in relief. He was worried he wouldn't even score a couple dollars (not realizing the weight of glass).
He has carefully and meticulously sorted his recyclables for a couple weeks; however, he will be able to go weekly now that he has figured out the process.
After we returned home, he began re-designing his system to collect plastic. He is separating the types of plastic by bag, as the payout is different for each.
A little later, Kade told me he needs a wallet for his money. He wants to save it for an iTouch.
This project is teaching Kade so much. Foremost, it is increasing his awareness of garbage and the impact of what we buy on the environment (he already prefers aluminum). Secondly, it is teaching him good business practices as he learns to maximize his returns. Thirdly, I hope it will teach him how to be patient and save for something special.
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Bandits
Many years ago, my husband and brother would terrorize the coons on the river bottom.
In recent years, the raccoons have begun terrorizing us (I am sure it is for revenge).
In Pittsburgh, a scrawny, hungry raccoon would come pillage the dog food nightly, though he did manage to get "treed" by Duke on our deck one night, but mostly Duke just loved to chase him back into the woods.
THEN last night (merely one month into my California adventure) I awoke to something crashing into the backyard fence. My husband jumped out of bed as the neighbor dog began barking wildly. A raccoon (think 55 gallon barrel with hair) had slammed into the fence and was clawing his way up with legs too short to negotiate his round belly. Unsuccessful, he headed back to the dog dish and began chomping on dog food. Other than the crunching of food, the quiet allowed me to drift back into dreamland...until the bandit slammed into the fence again! The dog began to bark wildly. Repeat. Repeat.
I did not leave the comfort of my bed to investigate, as Ron had it under control and I knew I was safe in my warm bed even though it sounded like a bear was charging my fence; however, after listening to Ron's rendition, I assure you that I will get up tonight to see this critter. Now I am curious. Now I will leave my cozy bed.
In recent years, the raccoons have begun terrorizing us (I am sure it is for revenge).
In Pittsburgh, a scrawny, hungry raccoon would come pillage the dog food nightly, though he did manage to get "treed" by Duke on our deck one night, but mostly Duke just loved to chase him back into the woods.
THEN last night (merely one month into my California adventure) I awoke to something crashing into the backyard fence. My husband jumped out of bed as the neighbor dog began barking wildly. A raccoon (think 55 gallon barrel with hair) had slammed into the fence and was clawing his way up with legs too short to negotiate his round belly. Unsuccessful, he headed back to the dog dish and began chomping on dog food. Other than the crunching of food, the quiet allowed me to drift back into dreamland...until the bandit slammed into the fence again! The dog began to bark wildly. Repeat. Repeat.
I did not leave the comfort of my bed to investigate, as Ron had it under control and I knew I was safe in my warm bed even though it sounded like a bear was charging my fence; however, after listening to Ron's rendition, I assure you that I will get up tonight to see this critter. Now I am curious. Now I will leave my cozy bed.
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