Dymond Eight

New School Year 2001-2012

2011-09-29T05:55:00.000-04:00

Don't know how it happened, but another school year is here. Time really does seem to speed up as your kids get bigger. I remember when they were all little, the days would drag by, now they fly at super sonic speed. Can't believe they all let me take their pictures, but I guess that is how traditions start, they just expect it every year now.

Drew starting his second year at Penn State.

Mark is a senior this year.

Luke

Katy ready for new adventures in 8th grade.

Steven staring sixth grade, last year in Elementary School.

Becca going into fourth grade, ready to take on the upper elementary.

My last two in elementary school, by the time Becca is done I will have had kids in elementary school for 17 years. I think I should get a retirement package!!!!

Ocean Grove, New Jersey - August 2011

2011-09-29T05:37:00.000-04:00

I am still working at catching up on the Dymond Family Summer. The summer went by so fast and now September has flown by, but I still want to record everything. So here we go.....

In August we went to Ocean Grove, NJ for three days. Ocean Grove is the most peaceful town on the shore. It is made up of beautiful Victorian Homes and friendly people. My family has been coming to Ocean Grove since my Grandpa Bennett was a little boy. It is the place I go to revive my spirit every year. Sometimes I feel like the turtle that needs to "return home", for me Ocean Grove is that place; and now for my kids it has become that place.

This year we were in Ocean Grove for my Great Aunt Shirley's 85th birthday party, which seems strange to me because Aunt Shirley does not remind me of an 85 year old woman. So many of the family was gathered in Ocean Grove at the same time this year. We had all of the Aunt Shirley's Kids (Nancy, Gail, Allison and Laurie), their kids, the Pauls, the Wangbergs, the Dahlbergs (Mom and Gunnar), the Dymonds (plus Amber, but we all consider her part of the family) and the Pollocks (my Dad and Lynn came Thursday and Friday) So it was a really fun time and I loved getting to catch up with everyone.

Early Morning Walk

The beach right after sunrise

When we say "Boardwalk" we me walk on boards, no "extras" to clutter up the beauty.

My Mom Kathryn in green and her sister Tricia

Heather and Andelyne

Eating at our favorite place....Nagels!!!

Getting ready for an evening walk.

Luke had fun on our walk, but wasn't to thrilled about the beach again this year, so he and I made our "annual trip" to Target while the kids played on the beach.

Two "hairy" men

A new family photo

Or maybe this one!!!

Luke waiting for ice cream. A few years ago we started a new tradition, stopping by Days Ice Cream shop the morning we leave. We normally "open the store". They sell the best ice.

I am always sad when we leave, but I also feel ready for another year and can't wait to go back. Love ya Ocean Grove!!!

Yummy Blueberry Picking

2011-09-16T07:34:00.000-04:00

July is blueberry picking season in Pennsylvania and since Karl loves blueberries, we went several times to pick blueberries. One time when we went Becca wanted to come along. Blueberries are so yummy straight off the bush. When I had picked all the blueberries that I could....we ate them, froze a bunch (Karl likes to use them for ice cubes in soda during the winter) and made jam out of the rest. What a yummy few weeks!!! The place we go is called Dymonds Farm. I have tried for years to get a discount since somewhere down the line they are related to our Dymond branch....No Luck....oh well, there is always next season!

The Garden that Grew and Grew and Grew

2011-07-29T06:49:00.000-04:00

For the last several years Karl and I have been growing a vegetable garden in our yard. Each year we try and tweak it, change things, and come up with new ideas on how to get the most "fruit for our labors". This year was no different. I started by expanding the gardens, Karl started by turning the compost and working the soil.

When Karl turned the compost he found several globs of seeds that he just tossed into a corner and said, "Lets see what happens." Well what happened was that the several hundred little seedlings sprouted up. Karl being the industrious guy that he is decided to plant some of those seedlings (about 20+ of them), and guess what......they all took. All we knew was that they were most likely some type of squash. Here is what it looked like earlier this week.

As you can see we have very healthy growth. Personally I think a family of Gnomes have moved into the garden as well, but with everything growing, I can't be sure. Since this is all behind the white fence, I just close the gate and send Karl into the wilderness, I am afraid of losing one of my kids back there, so he keeps watch over it. Everything came up on its own back there, the only thing I planted back there was beans and we have to hunt for those plants.

Meanwhile back in the enclosed yard we expanded the garden beads, planted the flowers, veggies, and herbs. Karl was excited to plant some Arctic Kiwi vines.

When we were done planting we still had most of the back corner garden open, so Karl decided to transplant some of the plants from the back inside the gate. Needless to say, Karl makes great soil and they are thriving.

I keep telling Karl that I think the garden wants to eat the garage, because it is heading that way quickly. So as you can see Karl's "experiment" is going great!! I am trying to take pictures every few days to see the progression across the lawn.

The one problem with all this growth, the amount of fruit that comes with it. I think people are going to start running away from us soon, because I am always trying to give away veggies....Squash and Zucchini anyone!?!?

One fun thing that had come up is this little Sunflower. I was so excited when I saw it. Karl says we have one more, but it hasn't flowered yet.

I am also excited about the pumpkins growing in the back. We have several. I have never grown pumpkins before.....Thanks Karl!!!!!

You would think that this is the end of my garden saga, but I haven't mentioned our garden over at our friend Dave's house. It is doing really well also. Zucchini recipes please!!!!!

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part Two

2011-07-26T09:56:00.000-04:00

Okay, so after Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part One, Amber and I were joking about how much fun it would be to go to part two all dressed up like we were going to the Yule Ball from book four. We had six months to plan this out.......and below are the results. The evening started out with just me, Mark, Amber, Katy, Kate, and Emily, but we then added Trevor, Devin, Nick, Sammy, and Amy. Now since we decided to dress up we needed to find dresses for everyone at NO COST. How to do that was the question!?! The Answer: Amber and her sister to the rescue. In her attic she had a pile of dresses from her sister. With lots of pinning and a sweater to hide all the safety pins the girls looked beautiful. We were kind to the guys and just made them wear shirts and ties instead of tux's (Gotta keep the cost down) We had so much fun.

Trevor, Nick and Devin

One of the funniest things of the evening was how many people thought Nick looked liked Ron Weasley. People even wanted to get there pictures taken him. How fun!!!

Sammy, Amy, Katy, and Kate, aren't they beautiful!!!!!

The whole group - they do clean up nice.

Amber was able to get a second use out of her prom dress this year...GO AMBER!!!

And, yes I even dressed.

We went to the double feature that showed Part 1 at 9 pm and Part 2 at 12 am. We were in our seats by 6:40 pm and we got home around 3:45 am. A LONG, fun evening.

The girls two rows behind me.

When we got to the movie a newspaper photographer was taking pictures for the paper, we didn't make it in the paper, but it was fun to be asked.

I have had so much fun over the years going to the Harry Potter midnight openings, I will miss them......the people, the excitement, the fun.....but what a run and what a way to "go out" we will always look back and say remember when....

June Odds and Ends

2011-07-25T08:06:00.000-04:00

As the school year was wrapping up in June, Mark and Amber went on several field trips with school. The History Club went to Washington, DC, where Mark was thrilled to see Mummies.

AND a giant squid. That is what Amber looks forward to each year.

Then the Junior Class went to Ellis Island.

The kids did great in school, Mark and Katy both earned High Honors. Katy also had a 4.0 for the semester. Go Katy. The biggest happening in June was that on June 28th, Mark turned 18 years old. How did that happen that I now have two sons over 18. If I close my eyes, they are still little kids running around with underware on their heads. Time goes way to fast.

Happy 18th Birthday Mark!!!!

Mark and Amber's Prom - May 6, 2011

2011-07-25T07:55:00.000-04:00

This past year Mark was a Junior, so of course as the year came to a close he and his girlfriend Amber dressed up and went to Prom. They had a great time and do clean up nicely.

Katy and Becca wanted to come and see Amber in her Prom Gown. Katy has many ideas now for when "she goes to Prom". I told her that would be a LONG, LONG time away.

What a handsome son!!!!

It takes some time getting use to walking in heels and a long dress, Amber's mom Mary fixed the snag in no time.

Mark and Amber went to Prom with Emily and Jason. Emily is one of Amber's cousins and Jason and Mark have been friends since Kindergarten.

Mark and Jason Berti.

Time to go

Knoebels Amusement Resort

2011-07-07T11:18:00.000-04:00

One of the places that our family loves to go every summer is Knoebels Amusement Resort. It is an amusement park about an hour away, parking is free, you can either bring your own food and eat under a pavilion or buy your food. What make Knoebels so different is that you can get an all day ride pass for only $38, but you can also buy tickets that you use only when you ride the rides. The park is under trees with lots of benches for relaxing if you are not on a ride, and the food is GREAT!!! Love the taco pizza and mango smoothies, okay and the ice cream, funnel cake, french fries.....I think you get the idea. Last year we brought my Mom and Gunnar here for the first time and they loved it, so this summer we planned another trip for a fun filled evening. We met Karl's brother Jim and our niece Lily there and had a fun night riding the rides.

The ferris wheel lets you see the whole park from a birds eye view. Mom, Gunnar, Becca, and Steven had a great time seeing the park.

Gunnar then went on the Flyers with Steven, big mistake......He was a lovely shade of green when they were done!

The nice thing with all the benches, Gunnar was able to get a break, we also checked out some of the shops that Knoebels has. With the benches you can sit in one area and the kids can go on all the rides around those benches. After awhile I suggested the Antique Cars, a slow ride, no problems, very relaxing, I know I enjoyed sitting in the back seat while Karl drove "Miss Kelly" around.

Katy drove Uncle Jimmy and Lily around, she will be a great driver as long as she doesn't follow the "little devil" behind her shoulder known as "Uncle Jimmy" who kept telling her to "hit" the car in front of her which we us. Uncle Jimmy was ignorring the "Do not hit car in front of you" sign.

So just to make the antique cars interesting, Grammie let Steven drive their car.....NOT.....after the first ten feet Grammie turned the wheel and Steven did the gas. So much for Grandpa Gunnar having a smooth ride. I'm just glad that Steven has 5 or 6 years before he gets his permit!

Below are some more pictures of the "Brave Dad's" going on the rides with the kids.

Don't worry they also had lots of time to visit.

A fun time was had by all that night.

In the picture below is Amber, Mark and Johnathan (Mark and Drew's friend). Drew and Luke stayed home from this trip, because we were going back to Knoebels the next Monday, July 4th.

Lily Pitcavage, Katy and Becca Dymond. Lily had so much fun being with her older cousins and riding the "Big Kid" rides with them.

The next Monday was July 4th and we had the Pitcavage Rebellion (Reunion) at Knoebels. You would think that the 4th of July would be a busy day, but it was a slow day at the park, no lines, small crowds, not to hot a day, no rain. We couldn't have asked for anything better.

This is how we keep Luke entertained at Knoebels

Yes, I did go on rides!

Luke's favorite ride is the pioneer train, it goes 1 1/2 miles into the woods, it is the most relaxing and peaceful rides. I love it too!!!!

On the 4th, Katy brought her friend Lexi with us to Knoebles. Lily had a great time when we caught up with they in the afternoon riding the adult rides.

After a fun day at the park, we went back to my In-laws house and watched the fireworks. What a great way to end a fun day!!

Junior Prom - Mark and Amber

2011-07-06T09:32:00.000-04:00

In May was the Junior/Senior Prom, Mark and his girlfriend Amber went. They did make a very handsome couple.

In the picture below, Amber's dog, Bayley, walked over layed down and wanted a picture.

Of course, Katy and Becca wanted to see Amber in her dress. Katy spent the next week talking about what she will wear when she goes to prom! (But, not within Dad's hearing)

Amber's mom, Mary, fixing the hem of Amber's gown.

Mark and Amber went to the prom with their friends Jason and Emily.

Don't they clean up nice. Mark and Jason have been friends since Kindergarten.

And off they went. They had a great time and came in second for Junior Prom King and Queen, Amber says they are going to win next year.

I'm Back!?!?!?!?!?!

2011-07-05T11:06:00.001-04:00

Okay, Okay, Okay I know that I say this every time there is a big break between blogs, BUT this time I have a really, really, really good excuse........I have been really, really, really busy. So to give you a quick look at some of what has kept me busy, view below.....

Of course we started out the New Year half way through the swim season. Katy, Becca and Steven did really well this year. Katy will be a senior next year and is excited for the challenges that will bring. The season runs from October to March. The picture below is Katy with some of her friends.

Our team this year won the League Championships, so this was the shirt that we had made for all the swimmers.

At the end of the season there is a banquet to celebrate the season.

Katy and her friends

Becca and her friend Chelsea.

This picture of Steven was my favorite of the night!

So the week after the Swim Banquet, Drew was scheduled to have exploratory surgery on a Tuesday for a cyst in his belly. Due to complications he spent the next week and a half in the hospital. Quick overview: After the initial surgery they were unable to stabilize his blood pressure, the next day he had emergency surgery because he was bleeding into his belly, a week, two blood transfusions, and many other things later, he looked 100% better and was able to go home for good. They released him Saturday and he was readmitted Sunday, just to keep me hopping. Like I said, a LONG busy spring. He is all recovered now and doing fine.

So once everything was good with Drew, I had about a 3 day break AND THEN Luke had surgery. He had hamstring release surgery on both his legs. This meant that he and I stayed at the hospital from Tuesday through Saturday. He is doing great and is walking well.

He was home from school for about 5 weeks and unable to put any weight on his legs without the braces you see in the picture. He started physical therapy a week after he came home 3 times a week and is now down to 1 day a week. Did I mention that I have been busy? He went back to school in May and was happy to be back with his friends again. He is also up and walking and only needs the wheel chair if he would have to walk alot.

We also had a fun Easter with Karl's family at our house. Below some pictures of Luke doing the Easter Egg hunt. Karl was his "driver" for the hunt.

Lukie was also helping/showing his little cousin Emma where an egg was during the hunt.

Just in case anyone was wondering, the pets are doing great. Right now we have 4 cats and a rabbit and as you can see they all get along great. Though we have taken to calling the rabbit "well fed food storage". (That keeps Karl happy with all our furry friends.)

In February my Grandma Pollock died. She was the last of my Grandparents to pass, and I do miss her. She was 93 and had a very full life and is now at peace. Below is a picture of her with my Dad and my Uncle Richie.

So as you can see, we have been busy. I know this only takes me to April, but the kids just got up, so I need to run. I will finish updating later today.....or tomorrow.

Christmas 2010

2011-02-14T09:37:00.000-05:00

So before to much more time goes by, I wanted to post some pictures from Christmas. This year we went to Maryland for the week betweek Christmas and New Years. Very relaxing and very quiet, what more can you ask for!?!

Luke excited about a new game.

Becca

Drew with new books.

Amber, Mark's Girlfriend

Drew and Mark Relaxing

Even the cats were relaxing.

Katy

Another game for Luke

Katy

Steven in his new Sunday outfit.

Katy

Swim Season Starts Again.....

2010-12-21T06:17:00.000-05:00

Swim Season started again in October and we had our first meets in December. This year Katy, Steven, and Becca are swimming. That does keep us moving. Katy and Becca normally swim 4 days a week for 2 hours. Steven does three days a week for two hours. This year Katy is a 14 and under which is the oldest group in age group swimming. Steven is swimming in the 10 and under and Becca is swimming in the 8 and under. To keep me busy while I am at the pool, I run the teams Parents Association.

Becca getting ready for her first race, she is the one touching her goggles.

Becca after the meet watching Steven swim.

Katy, cheering the boys on during there meet.

Steven relaxing during the meet.

What a BEAUTIFUL FALL!!!

2010-12-21T05:17:00.000-05:00

I figured before Christmas that I should make sure to post pictures from the fall. This fall in Northeast Pennsylvania was very mild and the trees were able to give a full display of color. It was great. I didn't even turn on my heat till November. Love those heating bill!!!!

Before Halloween Mark, his girlfriend Amber, Becca, Steven, Luke my mom, and I went on a hayride to pick pumpkins. I was a beautiful day with bright blue skies, what more could you ask for then that!?!

Mark, Amber, and Becca

Steven

Luke

Luke and Kathryn (Mom)

Becca and Steven with their pumpkins

Mark and his pumpkin

Love Amber's pumpkin

View from the hay wagon.

It was a great weekend out, the next day Mom took the kids on a hike in the woods while I got some work done around the house.

They went hiking to a park near our house.

Mark

Becca

Steven

Steven and Becca

What a beautiful day!!!!

For Halloween Steven went as a magician and Becca went as a pioneer girl.

New Addition to the Family

2010-11-03T13:46:00.001-04:00

In May Cody, our "old fart" cat. (He was 17) died. The family has missed him bunches. Not that we didn't have three other cats, a hamster, and a rabbit to keep us company. In August Katy ask Daddy if she could have a kitten from her Great Grandma B's house. The mother had 2 kittens very young and had stopped nursing them. After many days of negotiations. Since I had promised Karl we wouldn't get another cat until he was dead. Karl and Katy came to an agreement about the kitten. It is Katy's kitten and she had to pay for everything. I have never seen a kid work so hard and she did it. Katy paid for all the kittens vet visits as well as getting the kitten fixed and declawed. I watched her work for Nana all day and then babysit in the evening. Karl and I are really proud of her and her hard work. Karl even gave her a bonus. . . She didn't have to pay back the last $10 she owed. Now all she needs to do is cover the cost of vet bills.

Katy named the Kitten Tika. She weighed 2.7 pounds when we brought her home. She is now just under 5 pounds.

Tika

I think Tika will stay nice and small. She is just like a toddler, she runs around and bounces off the walls, she even chases her tail, and then she falls asleep.

Tika with big brother Tobin who loves to bath her and snuggle her.

The other cats took to Tika right away. I knew the first time they all ate together she was accepted as a Dymond Cat.

Drew - Who said he could grow up?!?

2010-11-02T14:50:00.000-04:00

Where does the time go? I have been wanting to put these pictures up since June, but have not. (Please refer to my earlier blogs on being busy.) My Drew is now 19. Again, where did the time go. He is in his freshman year at Penn State and planning on going on a mission for our church next year. I know we shouldn't be prideful, but I am a very proud mom of a great young man. Here is Drew over the last year.

Senior Picture - taken June 2009

May 2010 - after senior project presentation was complete

Graduation - June 2010

Graduation - 2010, What a happy young man

The day Drew left for Scout Camp to work for the summer

Dropping "my baby" off for a fun summer working at scout camp.

A Sunday when he came back to visit from Scout Camp.

Going to see camp with Grammie (my mom) on a Saturday Morning

So, what do you think of the Beard? Anyone jealous, I know his dad is!!! Drew says that he wants to look like Santa by Christmas. Who has ever seen a red bearded Santa? Can't wait.

Starting School Again

2010-10-04T06:16:00.001-04:00

Once again, I am back. You would think that with the kids getting older I would have more time to "put pen to paper" but that is not the way of it. The older the kids get, the busier I seem to be. The kids have all started back to school and seem to be enjoying themselves. I looked at last years pictures and compared them to this years pictures, the kids keep growing. I have offered to pay them to stop that, but they keep growing anyways. Since when do kids not want money?!?

Drew has started at Penn State University, he is at the local campus for the first two years of school and then he can transfer to Main Campus. He is the fourth generation attending PSU. My Grandfather went to PSU, both my parents went there, and Karl also graduated from Penn State. So as you may have guess, we are BIG TIME Penn State Fans, okay at least I am. Karl does not believe in football.

Mark is starting his Junior Year at school and is already looking forward to going to college, I reference you to Drew to guess where Mark wants to go.

Luke is doing well in his learning support classroom and keeping us busy with wanting to go to Wal-Mart, Blockbuster, and McDonalds. Yes, he is an "All American Kid."

Katy is moving up in the world and starting middle school, why do they grow up so fast?

Steven is going into 5th and keeping busy with his activities.

And my caboose. Becca is starting third grade and working at keeping up with the older kids.

As you can see we have not fallen off the map, and once again I will make my promise to keep up on my blogs. I have such fun looking at everyone else's blog, you think that I could keep up on this blog. Oh, well better luck next time. Here's hoping.

More This and That

2010-06-26T09:34:00.000-04:00

I was going through my sheet of numbers for pictures that I wanted to post and had a few picture groups here and there, so here are my "important" left overs.

Karl and Steven on the Father and Son campout. Steven was the only one that went with Karl this year. Drew said that he is working at Goose Pond Boy Scout Camp and would be camping all summer, Mark is "to cool" for camping, and the campout is to much for Lukie, so Karl and Steven went and had a great time. They had a great time and as Steven says, "Daddy only lost me twice."

This is Steven, Katy, and Becca the first day of school in September.

And this is them on the last day of school, June 15, 2010. Where does the time go?

Katy on the last day of school. Next year she is in Seventh Grade and moving onto the Secondary Center, again, where does the time go?

The Dymond Family Fur Beasts love to snuggle.

In May our 17 year old cat Cody (Dakota Star Blanket) died. He was active till the end and had lived a long life. We miss him loads. I think that even Karl misses him, though I doubt you could get him to admit it since Cody spent 17 years trying to kill Karl. Trust me, Cody spent 17 years trying to trip Karl down stairs, when he had an arm load of stuff, or in the middle of the night when Karl would get up to go to the bathroom. Cody must have known the end was near, because two days before he died he jumped in the shower while Karl was showering and tried to trip him.

But, don't worry about the pet population in the Dymond household being to small we still have:

Cookie, Katy's hamster

Lionel, Mark's rabbit

Tobin

Kiva

Shayla

Becca's Baptism

2010-06-25T05:27:00.000-04:00

Okay, yes this is out of order, but when I was looking over what I had put in my blog I realized that I had totally skipped over Becca's Baptism at the end of March. It was a special day for the Dymond family, my parents were in, Karl's family was there and Becca was thrill to be getting baptized.

Mark, my brother Jim, my Dad, and Steven

Becca and Karl

Steven

Dad and Steven

Becca with Grandma Lynn Pollock, Nana Betsy Pitcavage, and Grammie Kathryn Dahlberg

Me and My Girls

Becca

Jim, my mom, and Mark

A Day at Knoebels

2010-06-21T09:11:00.004-04:00

There is a wonderful amusement park near to where we live called Knoebels Amusement Resort. What makes Knoebels a wonderful place is that it is kid/family friendly. There is no fee to enter the park, you only pay if you ride the rides. It is also in the woods, surrounded by woods, with beautiful gardens and benches everywhere. There are fun older kids/adults ride and then a huge kiddie land for younger kids. You can buy yummy food in the park or there are pavilions all around the park that you can bring your own food too. They also have a campground if you want to stay overnight.

We had a swim team day at Knoebels on June 5th and the whole family came. We all had a fun day enjoying the park. If you ever want to come to Knoebels here is the website: www.knoebles.com

Luke in one of the pavilions.

Drew relaxing on a bench.
Drew and Luke. We rented a chair to push Luke around in all day. He just sat and watched or played his video games. Katy by a tree.
Karl and Becca on the Flyer.

Katy and her friend Amy.

Luke in line for the Pioneer Train. It is a slow moving train that takes a 1 1/2 mile coarse into the woods and around/under rides.

Luke on the train.

Steven and Becca getting wet in the splash from the Skloosh.

Steven in the maroon shirt waiting for the splash.

After the splash and at the end of a fun long day.

Memorial Day

2010-06-19T09:15:00.002-04:00

For Memorial Day this year, my friend Amy and her daughter Haylee came to visit for the weekend. Here are a few pictures from going to the Wyoming's Memorial Day Parade. Katy -- too cool for everything.

Katy and Becca

Becca and Haylee

Steven looking very patriotic

This and That

2010-06-18T10:14:00.004-04:00

My goal for the summer is to keep up on my blogs. This is a great way for me to be able to keep track of what is going on and to share it with everyone, so here's hoping......

In May we purchased a trampoline, the kids are having great fun with it.

Katy on her 13th birthday. Where did this beautiful young women come from? Blows my mind that she is old enough to be a real teenager.

Becca started Karate when the swim season ended. This is the day she earned her orange belt.

Art Show 2010

2010-06-07T13:29:00.005-04:00

At the Elementary School they still do an Art Show at the end of the school year. Here is the art work of my three kids in the school.

Katy's work

My favorite of Katy's work.

Steven's Work

Anyone hungry for Pizza?

Becca's Work

Self Portrait

Easter 2010

2010-04-09T12:06:00.010-04:00

Well, Easter has come and gone and it was a bright, sunny, warm weekend. I couldn't have asked for more. We had a nice family dinner with part of Karl's family. (We missed you if you were not with us.)

I can tell that my kids are getting older, because we did not die eggs till after the Easter Egg Hunt. How is that for lazy?!? (I have found no rule outside of Easter Bunny Land, that says you need to dye eggs to have an Easter Egg Hunt. That is why the retailors provide us with such nice plastic eggs.) The kids wanted to do a second hunt, but I told them no.

As normal I did not pull out the camera till after John, Valerie, and my neice Sage had left, but they were there and Valerie, who is now the dessert maker in the family made a yummy carrot cake. (Poor Easter Bunnies, we put them out of business by buying plastic eggs and then ate their carrots in our cake.)

The Last Six Months

2010-03-29T10:32:00.005-04:00

Okay, okay, I know that I haven't been written on my blog in many months. The rumors are not true, I am still alive and kicking, just very busy. Over the last few months the Dymond Clan has been busy with swim practice four days a week(Katy, Becca, Steven), karate for Steven three days a week, karate for Becca two days a week, Senior Year things with Drew, Lukie thinking he should start acting like a teenager, and Mark being a teenager. Did I mention Katy's social calendar in that list?

Now I can stop feeling guilty about not keeping up with my blog, but I have enjoyed looked back at the pictures of Drew's Eagle Scout Ceremony. Drew is now an Assistant Scout Master in our troop, and has also been getting certified for the Boy Scouts in Rock Climbing and the High Adventure Cope Courses. He is hoping to work at Goose Pond Boy Scout Camp this summer. Karl has been tagging along, and will be a certified instructor also.

The swim season kept us very busy this year (October - March). All the kids improved their times and had fun swimming. I am the President of the Parents Association, so that I don't get bored spending 8 hours a week at the pool.

So below are some pictures of the last few months. I promise to do better and keep up to date with everything. ENJOY!!!!!

Luke toastie warm.
Katy, Kate, and Emily - friends since they started swimming together.

Steven the missing Blues Brother.

Becca all ready for the first day of drag at swim.

Drew our snazzy dresser. What happened to my little boy?!?

Mark relaxing.

Steven when he earned his yellow belt.

Drew dressed as Sherlock Holmes for Halloween. At the High School only seniors are allowed to dress for Halloween. They even do a parade around the school!

Steven as Harry Potter for Halloween.

Luke loves Batman!!!!

Kids for Halloween. Steven was Harry Potter, Katy was a Lady in Waiting, and Becca was Rapunzel.

Here are all my little Rodents, aren't they cute.

Now you know that we love all of our pets, they are all doing well and looking cute. They are our little fur balls.

Cookie the Hamster.

Cody, Tobin, Kiva, and Shayla (Boy do they like each other!)

My Eagle Scout

2009-09-25T08:57:00.006-04:00

Okay, so now it is time for the proud Mama to brag , just a little. Drew is now officially an Eagle Scout!!!!!! Last summer, Drew came to Karl and me and told us that he wanted to be an Eagle Scout. I have never pushed him with scouting and he has always just gone along. So we went to the Scoutmaster and found out what he needed to do be an Eagle Scout and Drew has spent the last year working really hard to complete this task. His project was to make a trail guide for the Luzerne County Conservation Districts Natural Habitat, and to stain the pavilion they have on the property.
Drew has had some wonderful examples through his scouting career. Karl has always gone on campouts and enjoys going to summer camp with the scouts, Gunnar was an Eagle Scout and always has had wisdom and help to share with Drew, and my Grandpa Bennett (Drew's Great Grandfather) was also an Eagle Scout and even though he only had daughters stayed active in scouting for many, many years. Drew is the first of my Grandpa Bennett's Grandsons to get his Eagle Badge so even though Grandpa is gone I am sure he was smiling down on Drew. Below is a small portion of the memorabilia that Gunnar and Grandpa have from Scouting.

Attending the Drew's Court of Honor were many of his Aunts and Uncles, as well as, Many of his grandparents. (Grammie, Grandpa Gunnar, Great Grandma B, Grandpa Pitcavage, Nana, Grandma Lynn, and Grandpa Pollock)

Here is the whole troop getting ready for the Court of Honor to start.

Scoutmaster Bill Roberts started out with Drew in Cub Scouts and has moved up with the boys over the years.
Wouldn't be a church event without cake.

Drew relaxing and visiting with everyone afterwards.

So now I have an Eagle Scout and I can sit back and relax or not I still have Steven who is in Cub Scouts, and I am Committee Chairperson for the Scout Troop. So I will only slow down a little with Scouting. Congratulations Drew, Mom and Dad and very proud of you!!!!!

Catch Up

2009-09-22T08:57:00.007-04:00

Okay, Okay me bad, I know it has been a while since I have added to my blog, so please excuse the large amount of pictures that I have included in this blog. The week before school started we made a day trip to Ocean Grove, New Jersey. The trip takes about 3 hours, but the family needed beach time and I just like Salmon I needed to go back to the beach to relax and prepare for a new school year. All the kids came plus my niece Wanda, my great niece Tenley, and Mark's girlfriend Amber came with us. We met Mom and Gunnar there and had a wonderful day. We ate at our favorite restaurant (Nagel's), walked around the stores, went to the beach, walked around some more and ended our visit with ice cream. Yummy!!!

The next week the kids started school, this year Drew is a Senior, Mark is a Sophomore, Luke is still in a Life Skills Class, Katy is in 6th grade, Steven is in 4th grade, and Becca is in 2nd grade.

Over Labor Day Weekend a new addition joined our family. Shayla is now 10 weeks old and has fit in wonderfully. The other cats adjusted to her within a day and even Cody likes her. She weighs only 2 pounds and is full of energy and keeps the other cats hopping.

So that is a quick overview of the last few weeks in the Dymond's home. Enjoy!!

The Dymond Family's Busy Summer

2009-08-13T09:25:00.006-04:00

This summer has been very busy for the Dymond family. New babies being born, parties, swimming, and just being lazy. School starts again in just a few weeks and I am trying to remember where the time went. It is the same every summer, when school ends I say to myself, 13 weeks with the kids home, what will I do and now I wonder WHAT did we do and WHERE did the time go.

Over the last few months Karl's brothers and their wives have welcomed 1 nephew and 2 nieces into the family. (We have one more on the way in October!) So now I'm going to brag just a little about the new little sweeties. Eddie and Lynn had Sam in April, John and Valerie had Sage in May, and Mike and Jaime had Emma in June (Jim and Liz will be having a baby in October). The whole family (all seven siblings) were together for Emma's Christening in July. The pictures below are from that party. Karl is helping Tenley stay cool in the pool and Katy was teaching Lilly to swim.

Okay, how do you know when your kids are staring to get bored and ready to go back to school.....They start doing strange things. One day the kids were bored and getting rowdy, so I told them to get the camera and take some pictures of themselves. They went off happy that Mom was letting them play with the camera. They had a fun afternoon, but didn't show me the pictures they took. The next day I looked to see what they had been taking and this is what I found......

After I was done shaking my head and laughing. I thought, "I can't wait to put these on my blog!!! Aren't the little rodents/rugrats creative.

This summer we also had to cancel any plans that we had for going on vacation, because Karl works for the state of Pennsylvania and had been told that they were not expecting a budget to pass, but state employees still had to work and they would get paid once a budget passed. So we decided to stay close to home this year and do stuff around here. I have been calling this summer the "Summer of Movies" since so many movies were coming out and we wanted to see them all, that is what we have been doing. We have also made several trips to Knoebels Amusement Park this summer.

If you live in Pennsylvania and have never been to Knoebels you are missing out on a great time. Parking is free, there is no park admission fee, and you only pay for the rides you go on. Mom and Gunnar come last week for several days and we were able to finally take them to Knoebels and they LOVED IT!!! Here are pictures from our time there last week:

In the van on the way to the park

Mark and his Girlfriend Amber

Steven was finally old enough and big enough to ride some of the bigger rides with Katy. This is after he rode the Phoenix, one of the top wooden roller coaster in the nation. Karl was the lucky one to go on the rides with the kids. Becca even went on the flume for the first time. Later she told me that Daddy must have been scared because he was holding her so tight. For years Steven has wanted to go the Skloosh, but Karl and I didn't want to get wet, so he couldn't get on it. This trip Katy took him on it and boy did he get wet!!

Fun was had by all. Mark even bought a hermit crab while we were there.

In two weeks the kids go back to school and another school year will be here.

A Good Week in the Dymond House

2009-07-18T09:54:00.006-04:00

It amazes me that half of the summer break is gone. Where does the time go. I am already deep into planning for things in August and then...BAM....school is here and Drew turns 18, but that is for another time. My mind can't wrap around that thought this early on a Saturday Morning.

This has been a great week in the Dymond House. On Tuesday half the family joined the masses going to see Harry Potter. We were able to get right into our theatre, so by the time the movie was over I had sat in the same seat for 6 hours. I began thinking that I should take that chair home, after six hours isn't it part of the family?!?

Then on Wednesday Drew had his Eagle Board of Review. In our council, you go before a council board, which is sort of scary it takes over 1 hour and is very extensive. Here are pictures of Drew as he was leaving for his Eagle Board of Review: Drew did pass his Eagle Board of Review, now we just have to wait for the National Council to approve him for his Eagle Rank and he will officially be an Eagle Scout.

On Friday Steven also passed his test in Karate for his orange belt. He is so excited and proud of himself.

Here is a picture of Luke with his favorite cereal. He is a walking commercial for Wal-Mart so I have him thinking that Wal-Mart is only open one Friday every other week, and that we go and buy cereal there. Since cereal is his favorite food, it seems to work well. By Monday of the week that we go to Wal-Mart, he starts asking us, pulling on our clothes, and generally driving everyone a LITTLE bonkers that he wants to go to Wal-Mart. There must be a commercial in this somewhere!!!!

The rest of the family just had a normal busy week with activities and friends, what more can a Mom ask for.

Summertime

2009-07-07T08:22:00.003-04:00

Okay, I am amazed that the 4th of July has come and gone and that Luke is starting summer school this morning. Where did June go? I guess that I should have noticed that summer was moving along all the signs were there:

1. My flower gardens are all planted and blooming
2. My Veggie gardens are coming along
3. The kids are out of school (though this year they went till June 16th - so I have that as a small excuse.)
4. We are staying up later and sleeping in. (When the kids were all little and getting up so early I use to say to myself -"remember when you were a teenager and slept in - someday your kids will be that age and you can sleep in again. Well, they are there now and can sleep till noon if I let them, but I'm still getting up early so that I can have some quiet "me" time)
5. My frost free freezer is full of frost from the kids opening the freezer standing there looking at what we have in there and yelling,"Mom there is nothing to eat!" (to which some days I reply, "Success, my plan for starving you is working today!" Of course, if you look at pictures of my kids you will see that none of them are starving, they just think that Popsicles and ice cream with chips, pretzels, and soda are a balanced meal.
6. We should have gone on vacation to the beach. (This year we are not going on vacation, between the economy, schedules, of yeah, and the fact that Karl works for the state of Pennsylvania and right now there is no state budget, so no state employee gets paid till the budget issue is "resolved" and even then it will take 3-4 weeks to get the back pay we are not going on an extended trip this year.)
7. Fireworks - so I was sick for the fourth and home "relaxing" in bed for the day (the familiy still enjoyed the day at Karl's parents house and didn't see any fireworks, I still heard them.

So now July is here, Katy left for a week at girls camp yesterday, the kids started swim lessons in the morning yesterday (on top of the regular swim team practice nightly), Luke is in summer school. Swim lessons and summer school go on for 5 to 6 weeks, then we are into August. Drew and Karl go to Scout Camp, and then we are getting ready for school again. Where does the time go? Oh well, I think I'll go take a nap (It is summer after all!!!!)

Dan and Jen's Wedding

2009-06-20T10:24:00.022-04:00

This past weekend was my brother Danny's Wedding. We had a wonderful time. The wedding was in Washington D.C. at the Willard Hotel. The Willard is an old grand hotel in downtown D.C. about 1 block from the White House. The kids enjoyed learning the history of the hotel on the trip down and looking in the "History Hallway" during our stay there for the weekend.

So you don't get confused looking at the pictures, I'm starting out by showing you a picture of my parents with there spouses. The order is Dad (Andy), Step mom Lynn, Step dad Gunnar, Mom (Kathryn).

On Friday was the dress rehearsal (which we missed due to 2 hours of construction traffic.) Then the Rehearsal Dinner. Family and Friends that were staying overnight were invited to join the festivities. We took a bus tour of Washington DC after dinner. Steven had a wonderful time during the bus ride sharing all the facts that he knows about Washington and past and present Presidents.

The guy in the viking hat is my brother Jimmy. Dan and Jen are in the picture next to Jimmy.

The next day was the wedding. Mark, Drew were Groomsmen, Steven was the Ring bearer, and Katy and Becca were Flower Girls.

Just so you know that I was there, here is a picture of me and Karl. Karl was very handsome in his suit.

As you can see fun was had by all at the reception. Don't my kids clean up nice!!!

The next day was a goodbye brunch before we all headed for home.

I thought that I would end this blog with two of my favorite pictures of the bride and groom, and send my heart felt love for them to them. May we all remember the love we felt for our spouses the day we were married and carry that with us each day. Love to all.

This and That

2009-06-04T09:08:00.011-04:00

Okay, as normal the end of the school year has been very hectic, so though I am very good at taking lots of pictures, I am very bad at posting them on my blog, so to catch everyone up with the last month and some of the activities we have been doing, here is the This and That Blog.

Since school is coming to an end, of course all the elementary kids have field trips. I went on Becca's to a play and then lunch and a magician back at school. She was partnered up with her best friend Chelsea.

Karl went with Steven on his trip, so no pictures from that trip, and Katy's trip is tomorrow, so that will be fun.

For Steven's Blue and Gold Banquet his pack had there Pine Wood Derby and Steven came in first. He was so excited and surprised. The fathers made the track and are really excited to use it themselves.

Steven's Cub Pack also went on a nature hike. Walk Steven Walk!!!!!
Karl also took Drew and Steven on a Father and Son Campout with our friends from church.

Here is Drew sleeping in the van.

What a comfy seat.

Steven, enjoying his weekend with Daddy.

The end of a fun weekend, look at the happy campers.

Katy has been in 5th and 6th grade chorus, a few of the singers, Katy being one of them had the opportunity to sing with the High School Chorus.

Drew has been busy with Scouts. Here he is doing his Eagle Project last Saturday. Now he just has to put his Project Book together and turn it in.

Part of the group helping him.

And of course, summer swim has started.

Becca
Steven

Katy

Katy, Becca, and Steven also had there art show here is some of there art work for the year.

Katy's Pictures

And now......

Steven's Art Work

And Finally.......

Becca's Art Work

And just so you don't think my other kids have fallen off the face of the earth, here you go....

Luke celebrating Cinco de Mayo

Luke relaxing

Mark relaxing

The next big thing coming up in just 1 week is my brother Danny's Wedding. Here is a picture of Danny and his soon to be wife Jenny.

and here is one of Mom and Danny

So now you are caught up on our lives. The last day of school this year is June 16th and then Drew is a senior. Where did the time go.

Easter Fun

2009-04-29T09:54:00.012-04:00

Okay, I know most people have posted for Easter and gone onto other things. After all it was 93 degrees here on Monday, so summer must be here by now, but alas, no it is only in the 60's today. My only excuse is that we decided to remodel our kitchen before summer was here, so of course we start doing it over Easter. I have been washing dishes in the tub for almost a month, so that has been taking all the paitence that I have. I do not recommend this, if I wasn't a hunchback before I sure as heck am now. When the project is all done, I'll show you what it looks like.

So below is the fun that we had for Easter this year. We went down to my Mother's and spent time with them and my Aunt Tricia's family. Fun was had by all!!!!

Luke waiting to have an Easter Egg Hunt

The traditional Family Picture before the hunt. Every year since I was young this "family line up" picture has been taken, boy to see them all together!!!

Steven waiting VERY patiently.

LET THE HUNT BEGIN!!!!!!

The on lookers and the helpers

Now after you have your hunt, of course you need to eat your candy

Now when we go to Mom's and Gunnar's we take everyone kids, cats, AND hampster. Here are the furry one, very happy at Grammies.

My Little Angels

2009-04-09T08:01:00.006-04:00

Okay, yes, 85% of the time my little ones are my "Little Angels" (5% of the time I want to sell them to the circus, and the other 10% is the in between - you know cute enough to keep, but a lock on the door to keep them out would be great).

Since swim season has ended we have kept busy with colds, school, church, etc. Here are some pictures from the Swim Banquet: Katy all grown up, in two weeks she will be 12, where did the time go.

Katy and the "Best Guy" in her life.

In a paper for school Becca wrote that "Everyone likes me, because they always call me cute." After I read that, I told Karl to clean the shot gun - he will need it when she get older!
These are all the medals and trophies that Becca won at Swim Championships. Her medals are for her age group (6 and under) and she has a first, second, and fifth.

As you can see, Steven is the "lost" Blue's Brother!!!!!!

Just so you don't think I have the other kids chained to the wall here are my other little darlings:

Drew in "his" basement - I keep telling him when he pays rent it is his till then he is just an invited guest.
Mark - this is one of my favorite pictures taken of him.

And last, but not least. Luke, my smilin little boy who would live at Wal-Mart if I let him. We get asked at least 50 times a day if he can go to Wal-Mart. I now have him convinced that Wal-Mart is only open 1 day every two weeks.

Murphy's Law Part 2

2009-03-11T09:04:00.003-04:00

Okay, see what I do to myself, I spoke to soon. I should have known better then to say everyone was well and in the clear....... Sorry Drew and Mark :-) Oh well, life goes on.

Murphy's Law

2009-03-10T13:51:00.003-04:00

Okay, you know how you think that you have made it through the winter without to many colds in the family. -Kelly is right again, the flu shots do work!!!- (Karl tells me that every year I make him get a flu shot he is sicker then when he doesn't get them. That is such a man thought, but I will save that for another day.)

Over the last few weeks we haven't been at church on Sundays between colds, swim, and snow (no comment from the Chicago friends). On Saturday I was feeling great, swim is done, the weather is nice, no one is sick. The clothes were washed and Sunday clothes were laid out, I even had everyone Sunday shoes matched and lined up. I even went and bought Katy a new skirt because in the last few weeks she has grown out of all her pants and skirts.

(Where did the time go, she went from little kids sizes to a womens size 6.)

So you can see I was ready for a quiet Sunday at church to recharge and relax. That was my first mistake -you know Murphy's Law. About 7:00 pm Saturday night Becca started throwing up. She told me her belly hurt, but since ALL my kids were healthy I told her to just relax and go potty.........

When she was "done" and I had washed the whole kitchen floor, I had her lay down in my bed-with a bowl this time. From that point on for the next six hours she vomited every 1/2 hour. (I am still amazed at the clockwork of her body). So needless to say, Karl was teaching a class on Sunday, so I knew that I would be staying home with the puking child (lucky me).

The next morning as I'm getting the rest of the family ready to go to Church. Steven said, "My stomach hurts." This time I was ready large mixing bowl in hand (my floors were clean, and isn't Sunday a day of rest.). Now anyone who know Steven knows that he goes to his own beat, but sick kids don't go to church, so now I had Steven, Becca, and Luke, who was in a grumpy mood.

We made it through the day, and I thought we were in the clear. (I refer you back to the title of this blog). Around 7:00 pm Sunday night Katy says, "Mom, my belly hurts." Of course, I blew it off. (You didn't think that I would have another bowl did you, Katy always complains about her something hurting.)

Around 7:30 she told me her belly hurt again, and being the "good" mother that I am, I rolled my eyes, snarled under my breath and gave her a bowl. Now I'm sure everyone can guess what came next.

It is now Tuesday, and everyone seems to be feeling better, but I have my bowl on hand just in case. I keep saying to myself - "At least you are all ready for next Sunday." But, with Murphy's Law I'm sure a meteorite will hit the house or something.

Swimming

2009-03-05T10:34:00.017-05:00

Hallelujah, the kids swim season is FINALLY done. Now don't get me wrong, I really enjoy the kids swimming, but about the third week in Feburary I was ready for the season to wrap up. For those of you that don't know; Katy, Steven, and Becca are all on a swim team. The season starts the first week in October and ends the first week in March.

I am amazed at everything they learned to do this year. When the season started Becca didn't even like to put her face in the water without holding her nose, by the end of the season, she came in second in the league for her age group in the 25 yard Freestyle. Steven thinks he is half fish and if he grew gills I don't think he would ever come up for air. Katy is also one of the top swimmers in her age group, and is enjoying swimming all the time.

So how often did the kids swim? My kids did 4 days a week for 2 hours a day (1 hour for Steven and Becca), and sometimes a fifth time - if they wanted to swim. Plus 8 meets during the season and Championships.

Here they are swimming, don't worry they are all short 30 second videos:

This is Becca doing her 25 yard Freestyle at Championships. Katy was holding the camera, so I hope you took your "sea sick" pills. Becca is in the middle with the blue cap and pink goggles.

Steven swimming his 25 yard Freestyle.

Steven and Becca during practice.

Okay, this is the last video, Karl is just learning how to use the camera, he is taping Katy doing her 50 yard Freestyle.

Okay, so are you sick of seeing my kids swim yet. We are keeping busy here with many different things going on, and I am going to enjoy my break for two months before summer swim starts. Here are a few pictures of the kids:

Becca was "Swimmer of the Week" the last week of practice.

This is Katy with her new hampster Cookie.

Steven
Luke

And last but not least, a few pictures of my furry babies:

The Mom Song

2009-02-04T09:26:00.003-05:00

Not much more to say then, Amen.

I'm Thankful For.....

2009-01-30T12:06:00.002-05:00

Okay, so it has been a while since I wrote anything, but I have been thinking about writing so here I am... over the last few weeks I have been thinking about things that I am thankful for and things/people that have influenced who I am. How is that for "heavy" thinking. So I wanted to take some time and write some of those things down.

So in advance sorry if I forget someone or something, the kids use up most of my brainpower so sometimes it is hard to remember it all!

On Oprah sometimes they have a show about thanking those who have helped you, and I think some of the biggest influences on me have been from people who don't even realize it. So this is my "Oprah" show.

1. My 10th grade tennis coach, I can't even remember his name. (Sometimer's starts early when you have kids) I didn't even like him, but I learned about sportsmanship from him. I had just moved to York, I wasn't happy to be there, but I have never forgotten the lessons that he taught me, that I have passed on to my kids and taught to the kids that I have worked with over the years.

2. When I had my third son Luke and over time we came to learn and understand all of his disabilities I would spend a lot of time thinking back on watching Sandy and Lynn Sechrist (my friend Amy's parents) deal with their son Brent's illness and death. How to me they lived each day for each day and treasured their time with him. How when he died they cried, laughed, and still lived and enjoyed. Karl and I spent a lot of time talking as we slowly came to see all of the challenges ahead for Luke and we decided that that example would be how we would work and move ahead with Luke in his trials and struggles.

3. I was always older then my cousins (eight years older), so I was able to play "mom" with all my cousins. So that when I had my own kids - diapers, poop, spit up, and all that fun stuff was just routine. Scott was my first "toy" (I guess at this point I should apologize for pinching you so I could pick you up when you cried, but you seem to have gotten over that without any damage). After Scott came all these girl cousins. Imagine to my way of thinking a never ending supply of talking dolls, to dress, do their hair, and make up. I use to giggle watching my Uncle Dick thinking about his little girls being my age and "all grown up".

4. From my Grandma and Grandpa Bennett I learned about family. I do miss their house in Frederick and all the family holidays. Each Christmas and Easter I think back to pictures on the stair or outside wall. When I read my kids Babar and Father Christmas I think about my Grandma reading it to me, and my tree never looks right because Grandpa's train is not under it. I think one reason all the cousins still enjoy being together, even if we don't get to see each other often is because of those times.

5. My friend Ruth taught me that cows do fly and to always follow your heart, because it takes you to were you should be. Whenever I see a Far Side Cartoon with cows flying I always think back to our trip to Wyoming.

6. Amy and Kevin are still my "best friends" after all these years. Even though our lives are busy, when we are together the time apart melts away and I just want the fun times to continue. Though Kevin is the oldest, and seems to be falling apart faster then me or Amy.

7. My seminary teachers taught me to love the scriptures, even if when life is busy and they are making a good door stop next to my bed. I can always find peace when I read them.

8. Stacey and Paul are the two people who have moved far away that I want back. (I know your reading this Stacey) I miss you both, and wish you were here.

9. Mary Ellen and Eric Ferrin showed me whenever I was with them about love, and showing it to those around you and especially to your spouse. Whenever me kids go yuke or ewh when I kiss Karl I think back to the Ferrin's. She also taught me that you could cook a turkey whenever you want to not just on Thanksgiving. Okay, I know that sounds weird, but did you know you can cook a turkey whenever you want to, the thought had never crossed my mind until I was at the Ferrin's for dinner one night and they ate a turkey. Now I don't want to blow your mind, but you don't have to cook all the "trimmings" when you have turkey either.

10. When I married Karl he had two sisters and four brothers. Okay, so he still does, but coming from a small family and only brothers. I was thrilled to finally have "sisters". Karl and I have so enjoyed watching his brothers grow up, marry, and now have kids of their own and with that a whole new group of sisters came into this family and I love each and every one of you. Getting together is so much fun and never long enough.

Now you can see I'm feeling reflective right now and you probably stopped reading this part way through. I haven't mentioned my parents, step parents, or brother. I will save that for another day. I will just say that I love you all. I am blessed with family and friends that make life full and colorful. I wouldn't trade any of you. (I'm not going to proof this, hope there aren't to many mistakes, if there are I'll just blame the "sometimer's illness)

Love to all.

Happy New Year!!!! Where did the time go?!?

2009-01-06T12:59:00.014-05:00

Well, another year has come and gone; boy was it fast. I don't know where the time went, and now everyone is taking down there lights and Christmas trees. Time is going to fast!!!! We had a wonderful Christmas and a great vacation. I hope everyone else did also. The kids are back in school so now I have time to sit down and write a quick note.

Now I know how tired everyone gets of pictures, but well the kids are cute so I'm going to be the "MOM" and show some pictures from the holidays:

Katy watching one of the 15 movies I gave Karl for Christmas this year; yes, he had a wonderful time being lazy and watching all of them over the next week.

Drew and Mark waiting for Santa to arrive. I think Mark wanted to steal his cookies or keep a reindeer as a pet.

Becca, very tired after a long day of playing with all her new toys.

A "snowperson" came in from the cold to visit for a little while on Christmas Eve.

As I was thinking back on past Christmases I came to realize that Drew will be 18 next year and will be all "grown up" and that time is going to fast so I took a picture of of each of the kids to remember them by. I'm calling it the Rugrat Gallery:

Drew the cool elf

Mark the "Fifth Beatle" Luke my little angle with a teenage attitude, take him to Wal-Mart and he will be your best friend.

Katy my almost teenager. I would love to hear from anyone with earplugs for me and chocolate for her!

Steven, my cuddle bunny

Becca, the ruler of all things she can see or hear, at least according to her.

Now, I hope you didn't think that this blog would be over without me showing off my other babies. My best gift this year was Karl allowing us to get our kittens, they are well loved and put up with being carried around all the time. Wasn't that how the rulers in Egypt use to move about. So here are some cute kittens and the Grumpy Old Grandpa (Cody) for your viewing pleasure:Kiva and Tobin sleeping on Drew's lap while he is on the computer.

Kiva with his loyal man servant Drew.

Tobin and Becca taking a nap together.

The Dymond Clan went to Maryland from December 29th - January 2nd. Now when we go away to Grammie and Grandpa's we all go - I mean the people, cats, and hamster. Here are a few pictures of "the royal family" enjoying Grammie's House:

Tobin

CodyKiva

As you can see they are very comfortable moving around. One last little bit of Christmas for you. Luke loves to sing and one of his favorite songs to sing is the Twelve Days of Christmas. He loves to sing "Five Golden Rings" So here you go Luke and company singing, please excuse the bad back round voice, but someone has to keep them going.

Okay, so we aren't the Von Trapp Family, but as you can see they do like to sing. I hope everyone has a wonderful new year, and remembers to enjoy each day. Gotta run the kids are coming home. Boy time goes by fast!

What's up!!!

2008-12-16T08:46:00.010-05:00

Okay, so as is my normal excuse I have been very, very busy, then this morning on the radio they said nine days till Christmas and I said to myself, "Oh Crap, I never did a post about Thanksgiving." As you know I do not consider it to late, till the next holiday has past. I guess that means I only have a few days at between Christmas and New Years.

We stayed home this year and had our family and friends come over. I was one of those shoppers out bright and early Thanksgiving Morning shopping at Kmart, but with games buy 1 get 1 free, what else could I do. Anyways, Mark wants Hungry, Hungry Hippos for Christmas. Yes, I must have dropped him on his head when he was a baby. How do I know that - What 15 year old wants Hungry, Hungry Hippos as a Christmas Gift.

Here is Karl carving our yummy turkey, a 26 lb. bird that gave up "the goose" to a good cause --our hungry tummies!

Here are some pictures from during the dinner, the table was full, but boy did we eat.

The next morning, I was one of "those crazy" shoppers hitting the stores at 4 am. This is the first year I let Katy go with me. We were up at 3 am and in line by 3:30.

We had a great time and shopped for nine hours. A long, but fun day.

Since then we have been busy with swim, and swim, and did I mention swim. Katy, Steven, and Becca are all swimming so we are at the pool 4 nights a week for 2 hours. In my spare time I am slowly getting ready for Christmas. (It is good that I have about 3 weeks left, I will need every minute, LOL).

Some of you have been asking to see pictures of our kittens who are now 7 months old and still love to get into everything, so here you go:

Tobin is the black kitten, Kiva is the tan kitten, and Cody is our 15 1/2 year old black and white cat. As you can see, we can't leave any food sitting out, because Kiva will find it and want to share. This time is was butter with Cody. Now if I could just train the kids never to leave anything out. Kiva even ate Chili a few weeks ago, what a "joy" that was for the next few days. Bean and Cats DO NOT mix.

Kiva loves boxes.

Tobin is our talker and our snuggler. He also likes to get into everything.

It took several months, but all the fur balls are friends and will eat together and "play" with each other. Though when Tobin tries to play with Cody, he just looks at him with an expression that says, "You have got to be kidding, and walks away." Kiva is also the Great White Hunter, he found this deer on the tree the crazy humans put in the house just for him to play with!

I hope everyone is having a great time getting ready for Christmas, we are enjoying the season, and all the Christmas movies and music. Have a wonderful holiday. Love to all.

LOOK AT ME I'M 40!!!

2008-11-24T08:55:00.004-05:00

This is my cake this year. I asked Karl for Ice Cream Sandwiches, so he got creative and also picked up Cherry Garcia to make the zero, we lite the candles twice to get the pictures. Luke loved blowing out the candles!!

Okay, so I know I'm strange, yesterday I turned 40, and yes, I just consider it a number on a page. Until this morning.......when I was getting breakfast for myself after the kids were gone. I was putting leftovers from last nights birthday dinner on my plate when I said to myself (If you didn't know already, I talk to myself), "In ten years when I turn 50 I'm going to Ruth Chris Steakhouse for dinner."

Then it dawned on me, I'll be 50 in ten years. Now I know it is only a number and some of you are close to or over that number, but it knocked a pause into me today. I thought back to when I was kid and how old 50 was. So then I started thinking back on some of the stupid things I have learned over the years, so here they are:

1. Don't play with yellow snow
2. And on the same mind frame - Everyone poops
3. Little Brothers are still happy they are younger then you and love to tease you about it.
4. Movie popcorn needs to smothered in butter or its just not as good.
5. ET invented Reese Pieces and a Reese Peanut Butter Sundae at Friendly's is still yummy.
6. Watching snow fall takes all the worries of life away.
7. I still like to watch movies multiple times (yes, I saw Twilight twice this weekend).
8. Your kids always think you are a little crazy.
9. Chocolate is good hot, cold, solid, or liquid.
10. Dark chocolate is better.
11. The dishes do not disappear overnight no matter how much you pray for it to happen.
12. Kids will always get clothes dirty and use the towel only once, then ball it up in a corner to let the mold grow before you find it.
13. Families are Forever, no matter how much during certain times of the month you want your husband to take the kids, leave you the check book and go away on an extended visit somewhere else.
14. Smiles are contagious.
15. So are hugs.
16. Your teenage son might not want you to kiss him, but a shoulder rub or pat gives them the same message.
17. A good book is a good way to pass a day or a weekend or a week.
18. They always want dinner.
19. You need a vacation from your vacation.

And most important........

20. 40 is just a number, just like the rest of the numbers, they come and go, its all how you act.

I hope you enjoyed my top 20 list. Gotta run, Thanksgiving is this week, plus some snow tomorrow. Gotta go make sure I have milk, bread, and eggs. You know 2 inches of snow means it might be awhile before I can leave the house. (Yeah, right, I need to find that person and get them some snow tires.)

Love to all.

Halloween Pictures, okay okay okay, I know I'm late but....

2008-11-14T09:18:00.007-05:00

Okay, so this month has been as crazy as last month. I keep saying that I need to add pictures from Halloween to my blog, now it is mid November, Thanksgiving is two weeks away. So here you go. I was lucky this year and went away for the weekend leaving after the kids went to school, on Halloween, so I asked Karl to take some pictures. Well, I'm not sure who is tryng to teach who, but I'll keep working on him. So here you go the Dymond Kids Halloween 2008:
Drew went with me to my mother's but here he is a week before all dressed up

Mark was the first one to dress up that, looks ready to fight evil doesn't he!?!

The costume was really Luke's, his Grandpa Pitcavage bought it for him, he wore it for about two weeks straight.

Katy wanted to go as a girl from the 50's, she was really cute. She called herself the "Good Sandy" from the Grease movie.

Steven of course went as Ainken Skywalker, but this one is from the Clone Wars Movie.

Becca went as a pink puppy, some people thought she was a rabbit so she would show them her tail and say, "Rabbits don't have these tails."

And now for the evening picture, yes only one. (Though I will give him credit for sending one to my phone) We need to work on the picture concept with him. So you can see the kids had fun trick or treating with their friends, and Karl survived through the surgarred up kids for the weekend. Since it is not Thanksgiving yet, Happy Halloween to everyone.

Why I should win the coffee maker.

2008-11-03T12:13:00.003-05:00

Okay, how is that for a heading. Drew and I went to visit my mom for the weekend (Yes, Karl did Halloween, more to follow later about that.) and on the way home they were talking about a contest to win a coffee maker. They were looking for the person who had the most crazy mornings......Yes, that is me, here is my weekday morning:

5:30 am - Get Drew up for Bible Study Class
5:50 am - Leave house to take Drew to Class
5:57 am - Drop Drew off
6:05 am - Wake Mark up so he can take a shower
6:20 am - Wake Karl up to take a shower
6:40 am - Go pick up Drew
6:50 am - Drew is done, come home
7:00 am - Get Luke up, and into the bathroom, change Luke's diaper (don't forget he is about to be 14), get Katy up, get Steven up
7:04 am - Get Luke dress while he yells at you for being up, not taking him to Wal-mart (the best store in the land according to him), etc.
7:10 am - Wet Luke's hair down and brush his teeth, when he is done with that he walks around the house telling you how mad he is at you.
7:13 am - Drive Drew/Mark to bus stop
7:20 am - Bus arrives, go home to meet Luke's Driver
7:30 am - Try and get Becca to wake up, tell Steven to turn off video games and come dressed (Don't forget you have to make sure to tell him to change his underwear he is 8 after all, and boys at that age don't believe in changing under ware every day or week if you would let them get away with that.)
7:45 am - Finally get Becca awake and moving, remind children that breakfast is something they need to eat, not just a passing thought.
8:00 am - Katy, Becca, Steven eat breakfast (Steven is still missing at least on shoe at this point)
8:10 am - Find Steven's shoe, have everyone brush teeth (Have to remind them to use toothbrushes), brush hair
8:15 am - If everything went well then all we need to do is find coats, but while everyone is sleeping the coat fairy takes the coats from where they belong and puts them in hard to find places.
8:20 am - Found coats, book bags on, out the door, into the car, and to school.
8:30 am - Mom comes home and sits down to watch the news.

So what do you think, do I win the coffee maker!?!????? Don't forget this repeats itself 5 days a week. This is why I love Saturdays - I don't have to do any of that, and I can be lazy or busy my choice. Let me know if you think I would have won.

A VERY Busy FUN Weekend

2008-10-14T09:06:00.011-04:00

Okay, what more could you ask for, good books to read, a long weekend, and lots of family around you. So I'll start with the easy part. When I last blogged I was just part way through Twlight, now I'm half way through Eclipse which is the third book. The series is wonderful and YES I have been ignoring my children and housework. Yesterday, was the day I was going to get ahead with the laundry, but the book called and this is what my bed looked like at bedtime. Karl was laughing at me as I was finishing the chapter by flashlight. So you know that I'm not joking this is what my bed looked like when Karl was ready to go to sleep:

Yes, I need an intervention, but don't worry only 1 1/2 books to go, then I'll be done, and my mom is coming to visit and she says that I can't ignore her and read a book. Oh well, who needs sleep.

Steven has spent a long weekend with Mom and Gunnar and has enjoyed his first "Private Vacation" this is him when he left:

This weekend Karl's whole family was in. It has been a while since everyone has been together. It was fun to sit back and watch everyone enjoying being with each other. Everyone is very busy with their own thing, but when they are together, we all want it to go on. I always wanted sisters, but I only had a brother - so it is fun to be with Karl's family and all of my sister-in-laws, I enjoy visiting with the "boys" to. Of course the oldest "boy" is over 30 now. But they will always be the boys shooting ice chips at the old lady in the restaurant. Here are some pictures of the party we had on Sunday.

Here are some of the family together: Karl's mom with all her Granddaughters. For a LONG time we wondered if there would be any girls, now look at this beautiful group.

All of Karl's Siblings: Jim, John, Ed, Mike, Karl, Rebecca and Chris

This is the newest edition to the family and my Great Niece, can you believe it a Great Aunt and I'm not even 40 yet! Her name is Tenley May Lane. Of course babies come in groups in this family so Congrats to Ed and Lynn and John and Valerie they are both due in April!!

This is a five generation picture. Grandma B, Betsy (Mom), Chris, Ryan, and Tenley.

So you can see what a beautiful weekend it was, fun was had by all. Katy and Becca loved having their girl cousins around, and Karl enjoyed having his siblings around.

On another note, Drew submitted his Eagle Project Proposal for Scouts yesterday, so we are just waiting now to hear if it is approved. More to follow.........

Love to all, the book calls - and I need to go do dishes, you know mom's coming gotta clean up. Think she will notice if I just throw all the cups, bowls, and plates away so I can keep reading, she wouldn't mind eating off the table or floor would she?

Life goes on

2008-10-09T14:07:00.005-04:00

Okay, I know that I haven't written anything in a month, you would think that I would have lots of free time, the kids are in school, I have several hours a day with quiet, but as normal I'm always busy. I want to know where those women who watch TV, eat Bon-Bons, and take it easy each day live so that I could move there.

This week I started, okay yesterday I started reading Twilight and now I think I'm obsessed with it. What a great book, I can't put it down. Lots of people recommended the book and finally I decided to buy it, and boy I did not know what I was missing. Now forget housework, and the kids stuff - I just want to read.

I'm making myself sit down and write this, just to prove that I can walk away, so anyone who is looking to lose yourself for a little while in a great book, have at it. When I'm done I'll take some time and write about the kids. But I know they can last several days on water and bread, except I'm out of bread, good thing Karl can run to the store for me. Gotta run, the book is calling.

American Idol Concert

2008-09-10T10:04:00.015-04:00

Anyone who knows me knows that I love reality TV and one of my favorites is American Idol. On Monday, September 8th Katy and I went to American Idol Concert at the Wachovia Arena, which is the local sports venue. AND WE HAD A WONDERFUL TIME!!!!!!! Mom and Gunnar were suppose to go with us, but with my Grandmother's passing, they were still in Vermont, so Katy was able to invite two of her friends to go with us.

Abby, Vicky, and Katy before the concert started.

As you can see they were already having a good time. I have been looking forward to this concert since American Idol ended in May. The singers this year were very entertaining, which made the show a pleasure to watch. Here are some pictures from the concert:

Chikizie and Rami

Michael Johns and Kristi Lee Cook

Brooke and Brooke at the Piano

Carly!!!!!!! Rock on Carly!!!!! As you can see, she was one of the ones I liked.

Okay, so now you know who I liked, I'm not posting pictures of Jason Castro or Syesha, because well, they were boring, and slowed to night down. At least they gave people time to come back from the bathroom before the best parts of the concert started.

David Archuleta was amazing, the stage lights turned blue, then the stage filled with smoke and David came up through the floor playing a baby grand, wow does he know how to belt the songs out. By now 2 1/2 hours into the concert I have no hearing due to the girls screaming next to me, my voice is almost gone from cheering and we had one performer left:

DAVID COOK!!!!!! Now he was amazing, the whole place erupted with applause as he came up through the floor. WOW does he know how to put on a show. I had my reservations about him winning, but after seeing what he can do in person, hands down America you picked the right winner!

At the end the whole group came out one more time and did a group song, that was great also. In the end David Cook went back down through the floor. The concert left me wanting more American Idol. So now I get to wait till January for the next addition. Oh well, I'll be fine Survivor and Amazing Race start soon.

I thought you might enjoying seeing some of the concert, the first clip is of Michael Johns, the second David Archuleta, and the third part of the final group number. I tried to tape David Cook, but my camera keep cutting out so it was not worth putting on here.

Michael Johns - Dream On

David Archuleta singing Stand By Me

Top Ten at the End of Concert

September 4th

2008-09-04T13:13:00.009-04:00

Okay, so most people wouldn't consider September 4th anything special, but for the Dymond's it is a very special day. Today Drew turns 17. I don't know where the time went, it feels like he was just my little sweetie now he is my big sweetie. Time goes so fast. So Happy 17th Birthday Drew, the "ride" is great!!! Here are some pictures of our journey with Drew.

Drew when he was born. Kelly and Drew

Karl and Drew

Drew in his bookshelf

Drew, Mark, and Luke
Drew and his bearMark and Drew
Dymond Family Easter 2000
Dymond Family December 2002
Drew at the Beach
Drew and his Penguin Friend

Drew and Luke

Drew and Steven

Drew and Mark

Drew and Luke

Drew wore the same outfit on the first day of school, he hasn't changed in a week, so I just used that picture; but here is the birthday boy.

On another topic my Grandma Bennett died early this morning and she will be missed. There are those who are a part of your life who you always want to do your best for and my Grandmother was one of those people for me. Many of my memories growing up are about my Grandmother, she taught me many things. My earliest memories are with her and reading books, most of my holiday memories are from their house with the whole Bennett Clan together-I frequently think about those times now that my cousins and I are older and we don't get to see each other as much. Grandma and Grandpa (who died a little over a year ago) will be missed.
Grandma and Grandpa Bennett with Drew

Grandma Bennett, Kathryn, Kelly, Becca

(4 Generations)

Gunnar and Grandma Bennett this past July

The picture below was taken at my wedding, in my memories this is what my Grandparents look like.

So today take time to tell those around you that ya love them and make a memory, it all goes by so fast.

Hey there :-)

2008-09-03T13:24:00.008-04:00

]======km3jjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjer5.l4e ----- Okay I know that looks like jiberish, but the black kitten wanted to say hello to everyone. The kids are back in school and enjoying their classes, I'm working at digging out the house after a summer of having the kids keep me busy.

The kittens are keeping me busy, they want lots of my time and I'm loving it. We have finally named them the black kitten is Tobin and the orange kitten in Kiva. Here are a few more pictures of them.

TOBIN LOOKING OUT THE BACK WINDOW

TOBIN RELAXING

TOBIN ON THE TABLE LOOKING CUTE

KIVA LOOKING OUT THE BACK WINDOW

KIVA PLAYING

KIVA

As you can see my new babies are really cute and they are really enjoying being together, okay now I'm bragging.......Here are a few more pictures of Tobin and Kiva together:The kids are having fun playing with the kittens, we had to set up the rule that the kids had to get permission before picking them up, right now they are missing the kids, I think they are feeling lonely. Luke is really enjoying them as well, he brings their toys to them, and says shoo,shoo, shoo, when they are doing something they shouldn't be.

Here is Luke smiling with one of his bears.

The other fun thing is how well our garden in doing: I'm calling Karl "Farmer Ted these days.

Here are a few other things that we have been harvesting:

So you can see, life is just flowing by, Katy and I are getting ready to go to the American Idol Concert on Monday and we are getting very excited about it. I will post pictures after we recover from the great time we are going to have. Enjoy the end of summer!

The Start of School

2008-08-28T10:46:00.007-04:00

Okay, if I seem a little loose in the brain cells today, it is because: THE KIDS ARE GONE - HIP HIP HOORAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Now don't get me wrong I love my kids and have a great time being with them, but it is also nice when they go away. I have been surfing the net for about 2 hours, no one wants on, no one needs food, no mess is being made, I don't have to think about lunch in an hour or so. So I'm going to enjoy myself today, and if I don't make it to my "Honeydew" list today, it will still be there tomorrow.

See all the perks. Katy was so excited to go to school today that we ended up power walking to the elementary school. Karl was able to walk with us before he went on his way for the day. That thrilled the kids.

This year will be a lot less hectic because I am no longer the elementary PTO president, so now I'm not always on the run with that, but have no fear that I might get bored because I am now the President of the Swim Team Parents Association, so I have something to keep me busy while three of the kids swim, YES three. Katy, Steven, and Becca will all be swimming, so that will keep me busy from October - March.

So to all you moms who have just gotten rid of your kids, ops, meant to say who have just "sent them off on a new wonderful adventure", enjoy some quiet time, and those still waiting, enjoy your time it goes by fast. Have to run, it must be close to my nap time, or maybe I'll just sit down and hug the remote control for the TV, or go play a video game, who knows.........

Drew will be a junior this year

Mark is a freshman.

Luke is in a life skills class in the district next to us.

Katy will be in fifth grade, where did the time go?

Steven is starting the third grade.

Becca is in First Grade.

Walking to School Today

"Bye Mom."

New Additions

2008-08-26T16:50:00.004-04:00

Okay, I know that I already did a blog today, but I wanted to share the news with everyone while they were looking at our blog, that we have two new additions to the family. No I'm not having a baby or two, but we do have two new kitten additions to the family. The family decided that with Cody so old and Jazz and Tia gone that we wanted to get some new additions to the family. It took a little bit of convincing to get Karl to agree, but he finally did! We went to the SPCA today and our new additions came home with us they are three months old and as cute as can be, enjoy looking at the pictures below, I'll add more once the kittens are adjusted and Cody is use to them (Cody is not to happy at the moment, but he'll get over it.)

You have to look closely at Mark's lap to see the black kitten, he blends so well. The black one Mark would like to name Monte and the Orange one we may name Tobin.....I'll let you know.

Our Beach Vacation

2008-08-26T09:34:00.006-04:00

Okay, now anyone who has known me for at least one summer knows that one of my favorite places to go is Ocean Grove, New Jersey. So as normal for vacation this summer the Dymond Clan went to the beach along with my Mom and Gunnar. The weather was nice, the sun was shining and we had a wonderful time. If you are every looking for a peaceful place to go and relax go to Ocean Grove. We also were able to visit with my Aunt Shirley and my cousins. I think that going to the ocean renews my spirit each year. Here are some pictures to share with you.

Katy on the Boardwalk

Walking on the Beach

Mark

Dymond Kids, Mom and Gunnar sitting on porch of our B&B

Steven looking out at the boats at sea

Gunnar and Becca on the boardwalk

Katy and Luke

Drew

Okay, so one night we went out to dinner at a Perkins Restaurant and it was kids night, so the character Elmo was there for the evening and these are the pictures we took with Elmo, note how thrilled some of the kids are!!!

Drew and Luke

So as you can see, we had a wonderful time, and really enjoyed ourselves. Here we are during our third day. While we were walking around enjoying ourselves and our time together.

This past week the kids in various groups were able to spend time with my Dad and Lynn at Split Rock Resort, about 30 minutes from us, so they have spent most of August on vacation, which I guess is a good thing since they start back to school this week. I started the summer counting down weeks, then I went to days, now I'm counting down hours till I get my house back, and they get to go "play" with their friends at school and meet their new teachers.

Gotta run, the line is forming to get on the computer!!!! (In less then 48 hours, I also get my computer back!)

My Garden and the Busy Summer

2008-08-18T10:51:00.007-04:00

Okay, so I have been my normal busy self, but I have been very excited about writing this blog for one simple reason. MY GARDEN GREW ZUCCHINI AND SQUASH THIS YEAR!!!!

Zucchini and Squash on the vine

I know you would think that anyone could grow zucchini, but every time I have tried the zucchini would die and I would be so disappointed.

My first harvest, look at what I grew.

Here is what my garden looks like.

Since everything grew this year, I feel like a real gardener, and am looking forward to expanding next year. This year I was only trying things out, so we have already eaten most of everything and are now waiting for the tomatoes to ripen. Anyone need grape tomaotes let me know. We have two plants that are loaded and starting to turn red.

The kids have kept me very busy as normal July is a busy month with Young Men Activities at church.

Mark went on the Pioneer Trek which is when the youth go and learn how the pioneers lived, they pushed hand carts about 25 miles, didn't shower for three days, and dressed in long pants, long sleeve dress shirts, cowboy hat and bandana. He wouldn't let me take a picture, so you will just have to imagine what he looked like.

Drew went to Scout Camp a week later and had a great time. He even liked to eat the cafeteria food. He had the younger boys as "indentured servants" by giving them candy and such, so he had people helping with building a cardboard and duck tape canoe. Yes, he was in his element.

While all this was going on Katy, Steven, and Becca were still doing swim lessons.
Becca and Steven in the pool.
Becca by the Pool.
Steven
Katy
Becca under the water without holding her nose for the first time.

So you can see why it takes me so long to write anything, but busy is good and we are having fun. School starts in a few weeks and I am looking forward to that. In the next few days I will write about our vacation to the beach. Till then..... Bye!

Where has all the time gone?

2008-07-09T09:19:00.011-04:00

Okay, I started this blog last month and have spent the last month trying to find all my e-mail address that were lost when the computer crashed in January; see I really am slow at getting things done, but I think I have finally found them all and now I'm ready to let everyone know that I'm keeping a blog page. I'll figure this computer thing out yet, but at least now I know how to "pump gas and kick the tires".

So lets see.........Katy had a wonderful time at camp, she didn't want to come home and is ready to go back next year.

Katy with her camp counselors Tika and Alisa

Katy and Lexie with thumbs up about going to camp next year

Swimming has also started at Wyoming Area for any students so Katy, Becca, and Steven are all taking classes (5 days a week and 2 hours a day for 5 weeks.) So I spend 2 hours a morning sitting next to a pool and two hours each evening with Katy a her swim team practice. With all the sweating I do I should be really skinny in a few weeks. The kids are loving it and are all fishes.

Luke sitting with me while the other kids are swimming.

Steven in the pool -doesn't he look happy

Becca with her friends Carley and Abbey

My big fish Katy

For the 4th of July we went to the Pitcavage Rebellion, it was a fun day, with just about everyone in attendance that is local to the area. I asked Karl to take pictures, which was my first mistake he didn't take many pictures, but here are what was taken:

The boys taking a time out to play video games

Girls watching TV in the Grandparents Room

Luke being lazy on the Fourth.

So you can see I shouldn't have given Karl the camera, but we had a fun weekend watching fireworks and visiting with family and friends. Hope everyone had a good day. So now we are back to the normal busy summer things. Drew and Mark working, spending time with friends grilling, and taking the kids swimming.

The kids are demanding to use the computer again, I only get a few minutes here and there, when they are busy doing other things. Enjoy!!!

Given In

2008-06-19T08:03:00.000-04:00

Okay, I have finally given in and decided that summer would be a perfect time to start a family blog page, after all I don't slow down to often. Isn't summer when you are to sleep in till noon, each chocolate, watch TV, be lazy and recover from the last school year?

As normal that is not what goes on here. Right now it is quiet. Drew and Mark have not emerged yet from their respective rooms, Luke is watching cartoons telling me to SHHHH if I step to loud (Mark has Luke well trained to keep the house quiet till he gets up....of course Luke does slam the bedroom door closed when he gets up!). Katy is away at Black Rock Retreat which is a week long sleep away camp she goes to. Steven is at a friends house for the night, and Becca is passed out in my bed after standing next to the bed for a good hour crying that there were bugs on the floor so she wanted to sleep in our bed. (I fell asleep after about twenty minutes, Karl got to here the last forty minutes).

Karl the good man that he is, is at work away from all the "craziness" for the day, boy he looked so "sad" to be heading off into "adult land".

So this is my quiet time before the boys get up and I take them to work. They are working for their grandfather and uncle again this summer so that will keep them busy. The funnest thing for the week was getting Mark's hair done, and then doing Locks of Love with Becca. They both are thrilled to have new styles:

Becca's Old Style

Becca's New Style

Mark's New Style, it is a brownish black, which we both like. Boy you can tell he is a teenager!!! The first color he tried was a temporary dye that turned his hair green/gray, so we all like this one lots more.

Katy is away at Black Rock Retreat this week which is a sleep away camp with her friend Lexie. This is their second year and they are really enjoying it. I wish I was there with them. This is the same camp that I went to when I was there age. I would be more then happy to pull up a bunk next to them.

The noise around the house is picking up, gotta run.