Henrickson Family Blog

may 16, 2009

2009-05-16T15:37:00.000-07:00

Well of course we have been busier than busy this spring with ball, which is normal for us. Staci has had more games than Steven but that will soon change as right now Steven is playing and practicing JV ball and also practicing for pony league which games will start with as soon as school is out.

Staci's season record is better than last year so this is good and they won one tournament and today took second in another, the team seems to have been plagued with injury this year, as long as the girls don't get down on themselves they play very well and have come a ways since last year they are still a young team. I am VERY proud of how well Staci has played this year and she has had some workouts in several games as she is the only catcher so if a pitcher struggles Staci has to work extra hard, she has also had some great throw downs to second when girls have tried to steal second and they have gotten thrown out, and her batting has been very good..way to go girl.

Steven has worked hard in school ball for his first year and is having a great time to bad it ends soon. Steven has for the most part the last few years played second, shortstop or out field, primarily second, this year he has gone in to pitch a few times and done very well which he has enjoyed. Today he played with the JV-A team which he was so proud of and did a GREAT job, As grandma Kay said I am sure if they need someone again they will take Steven again so cool. I say JV-A because this year they added a B team which in reality is a freshman team but they did not want to call it that so that boys could move freely between the two teams should they need to, this is why Steven was proud to go the the "A" team.

Well after all of the explanation here are some photos from today.

How cool is this the same number!!I believe we have seen these faces before...oh yeah in a soccer picture several posts ago!

I am so proud of both of you keep up the good work what great sports you are, as well as good players that's the best part of watching you both seeing how you have grown on and off of the field!!!!!!!!

Prom 2009

2009-04-25T18:27:00.000-07:00

This is how we see Staci ALLOT of the time during the week, but I was in Awe of my beautiful daughter tonight as she went from this...OH YEAH by the way to this,

no it's not a black glove it's a splint from our 2 1/2 hour stay at the ER last night..

See first picture, you're supposed to catch the ball with the hand that has a glove on it, opps!

But even with the splint look at how

BEAUTIFUL my girl is...

I've said it before and I'll say it over and over she is beautiful inside and out I am so proud of her!!

They did it again!

2009-04-08T06:22:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a big day, somebody and a B-day, oh yeah it was me. The day started great woke up at Mom and Dad's had coffee with Mom.Then the kids woke up and Aunt Marcie had called and they planned "an adventure"? Grandma, Grandpa, and I were not invited, that was OK they have great memories of times with Aunt Marcie. The kids left on the "Adventure" Mom and I continued to finish cleaning her cupboards that she and the kids had started the day before. Then the phone call came...."OK Grandma have Mom sit in the chair and close her eyes".... Staci and Steven had gone on a "photo shoot" with Aunt Marcie and Alicia to Rosy Mound Park. There in front of me was my birthday bouquet..it consisted of driftwood, beach grass, beach sand, ferns, something else in the bottom of the vase(right Steven) and BEAUTIFUL pictures of Staci and Steven at the beach!!!!

It is Gorgeous. Here are shots of each side of the bouquet...

Steven wrote I LOVE YOU MOM in the sand...

Staci drew a heart and LEFT HER FOOTPRINTS IN THE HEART...

This is where it happened again they made mom cry, I have the most wonderful kids who I love with all my heart and the best gift is when they share whats in each of their hearts so freely.

Just when I think they can't top what they've done they do it again...

Look at my beautiful gifts from God...

By the way it was NO WAY warm on the day they made this for me but they braved the elements anyway and did it having fun that was part of the gift listening to them tell about it out there. They gave themselves a gift of a great memory to talk about for years to come..remember when we made that bouquet for Mom with Aunt Marcie and Alicia...remember how cold it was...remember Steven's hike up the hill...remember Staci sitting in the prickers to take a picture...REMEMBER HOW WE TOUCHED MOM'S HEART AGAIN!!

Spring is Here! That Means Ball Season!!

2009-04-03T10:27:00.000-07:00

It's finally here the day Steven has been waiting for all winter,OK maybe for a few years really, he is playing High School baseball!!

This is a shot of my handsome proud son in his JV Baseball uniform.

This is a picture of one of Steven's greatest supporters, Mrs. Morgan.

"Georgie" is just about as proud as we parents to watch the kids play sports, she loves to watch them play in the lot where they all have learned to play ball. Mrs. Morgan also loves to tell the kids how her boys learned to play ball in the same lot and for the same school.

Steven is even giving pitching more of a shot this year than he has in the past, he is starting at second base which he has played for years. Be sure you give them a look on first before you throw the pitch. ...and of course you have to celebrate with friends after the game, especially friends that will spoil you with cup cakes. I am so very happy for you Steven here's to a great season.

Honor Society

2009-03-16T20:04:00.000-07:00

It seems I am posting about Staci again but I guess it has been her week. We are very proud of Staci here to night she was inducted into the National Honor Society. It was quiet a night to listen to the speeches given by the current NHS officers, they were talking about all of the great things the NHS does and the qualities of the students in the Honor Society, and I wanted to stand right up and say way to go you should be so proud of yourselves and it's OK to 'toot your own horn" as the saying goes. This group is, as they said not only great students but great people with drive, conviction, strong morals, and leadership. STACI Jo I was so proud to sit there and listen to the speeches because they describe you, and you I hope are as proud as your brother and I were as we listened.

WOW What does 17 years bring??

2009-03-10T16:50:00.000-07:00

17 years ago this was one of my favorite pictures. Two of the best influences on my life, and two of the strongest women you could ever meet. My wonderful Busha and of course my mom.I was so happy to have them both in my beautiful daughters life. Well Busha is no longer with us and Staci remembers little about her telling stories or giving life advice , but she does remember drawing for her and going to the farm to paint and play. My mom, grandma is still giving advice and spending time with her grand kids, Staci long ago was able to say I am taller grandma, but all of the grand kids look up to grandma as a woman of strong faith, family values, and a good card game here and there. 17 years later I have a new person to look up to one with a strong self esteem and getting stronger, one who knows where she wants to go in life, a young lady with a great faith, a supper friend( and she has many good friends) a girl who has been down and not let life keep her down, someone with a strong sense of family, someone who wants to hit the world head on, that's how I would describe my beautiful daughter Staci!!
Happy Birthday Staci Jo
go get 'em !

OAC WInter Olympics

2009-03-05T19:21:00.000-08:00

During the month of Feb at school we have Winterfest. Each week we have a different activity the final week we had the "Winter Olympics" My good friend Dar and I were the Emcees for the day.We had several games that involved students and staff I am not posting any photos of the students, but here are some good ones of my friends/coworkers.

During this game everyone put on a paper bag and on the inside was written an animal and the sound they make. The catch to the game was there were 13 bags hmmm you say. well it seems we had one bag with the word donkey on the inside... yep... I am glad my cousins husband Gary has a good sense of humor.
During this game since we had hardly any snow and the assembly was inside so the entire school could attend we turned several staff into snow men with good ole' TP and this is the one who won the contest. Thanks for being a good sport Rick!

Well I think I may have to plan a summer olypics....

Skills USA

2009-03-05T18:52:00.000-08:00

I am late in posting this, but I am still proud of Staci.

The day after Snowcoming she was entered in a competition for her Tech Center class so she got up at.....

And then she got dressed and headed out,

doesn't she look like a teacher...

Keep up the good work Staci!!

Snowcoming

2009-02-20T21:37:00.001-08:00

Well today was Snowcoming, which is the basketball season version of homecoming. so after a fun spirit week today was Black and Orange day this is how Staci, Steven and Cam went to school all deck out with 'Tiger Pride'Tonight of course was the dance so it was time to get rid o fall the black and orange after the game and dress for the dance. Well that meant a trip to Tammi's to get the hair done. Thanks Tammi you always do a great job the girls love it.
Then there was a call to Terry our "Go To" guy, the first time for Steven to wear his new tie...help we need to tie it!

When it all came together look at the end results.

A beautiful young woman!

And a handsome young man!

I am feeling truly blessed tonight, they a great kids inside and out. Tonight was a night for the outside to shine, and when you take off the tennis shoes and cleats, the tee shirts and jerseys, you really find some good looking young adults, because guess what I don't think we can really call them "kids" any more. (But I will)

Thanks Marcia for the vintage effect on Steven's picture.

Proud of him, Miss him!

2009-02-16T19:07:00.000-08:00

Anyone who knows us knows how strongly we feel about our Ida Street family. Well yesterday we had to say good bye to the first one from the block who is growing up and moving on. Our "Big Steven" left today for Georgia he has joined the army. There have been the ups and downs of growing up, the kids have seen tough times and good times together and more than once been there for each other. The porch talks have been filled with card games, laughter, the occasional Mrs. H talk, and even tears. Through it all a strong bond has formed that I believe will survive the test of time and distance. There were tears yesterday and the hug strong enough for "big Steven" to tell "little Steven" , 'hey man my lungs' , Staci gave her hug and left the room quickly.

I hope you know our prayers follow you every day on your new journey, and you always have a place to come back to on Ida Street!

Love you The Henrickson side of your family!!

Proud Mom Again

2009-02-13T19:46:00.001-08:00

Staci came home this week with an award she earned the last tri of her sophomore year. The sports boosters give a special award to any student athlete who earns a varsity letter and is on the honor roll the same tri that they play the sport, that is what Staci did during the last softball season.Way to go Staci I am so proud of you and the great young lady you are growing into so fast!!
None of us can wait for softball and baseball to start.

Spring Like Weekend

2009-02-08T17:16:00.001-08:00

The guys loved the weather this weekend and were wishing it can stay. Steven would not let me get a picture of him out there swinging his new bat...finally got a Stealth and loving it. For now Staci and Steven have to just enjoy the open gyms but they are both itching to get onto the ball field. Spring cannot come soon enough for the Henrickson house.

Pictures of the weekend

2009-01-25T19:24:00.000-08:00

We had a great time this past weekend, Here is Steven "playing' in Rachael's classroom. The school had an Open House today one of Rachael's parents made sure to tell us what a great teacher is, I think Staci and Steven were very proud of her as much as I was. Steven just was telling stories about Rachael's students and how he was making letters for them and how easily they came up to talk and were not shy, either was Steven! We had a great time at Ed Debevic's. This is Staci in the hat that we all got to wear. In this restaurant they are always making wise cracks, insulting you or playing tricks on you. Staci and I almost screamed out REALLY loud when the waiter faked that he dropped a glass of water in the middle of our table. I am sure we will make our way back for Staci's birthday.

Then of course we spent some time playing games, here is the pic of me I "farkled" and so I had to wear the hat. Thanks so much Rachael for the hospitality, we will be back with grandma and the van(you know what that means)

CHICAGO!!

2009-01-24T21:18:00.000-08:00

We are in Chicago having a great time! Cannot wait to get pictures posted, today we did some shopping, the Thrift store was a great hit for us all, the Polish store Oh Oh Oh did we get some good meat. We then went downtown to Ed Debevics sooooo fun(Staci wants to come back for her b-day), and Traders Joe's. Tomorrow we go to Church at Rachael's school then to her Open House. Adalina is taking us to a Mexican restaurant she knows about, Steven cannot wait to get some candy from the Mexican store. Oh boy hope we can get all of our goodies in the car to get back to Michigan.

SOOOOO PRETTY

2009-01-20T16:47:00.000-08:00

I had to steal this photo out of the girls file because I thought it is so pretty and creative! They were out and doing shadow shots in the snow. good job Staci and Tracy.

Where are they now??

2009-01-18T15:39:00.001-08:00

Here is a shot from the sidewalk toward the house this past summer,

where are they now??

buried under this huge blanket of snow we have!! If you look closely the little bump of snow at the back of the picture is the top of the fence, this picture is taken from the house toward the sidewalk. You can also just see the top of my sharpening stone, brrrr we are ready for summer!

Love these Michigan seasons!

Report on Steven

2009-01-17T17:13:00.000-08:00

I thought I had better wait for Steven to feel better before taking photos of him, so here is a pic of him today in what has been his perch for the week. We went to the Dr for a recheck on Friday Steven is doing lots better, he will have an x-ray in three weeks to be sure the pneumonia is gone.

In the mean time he can begin to resume activities he has been laying off of as long as it is not outside in the temps we have been having. So here's Saturday night at the Henrickson's

Look What I Finished

2009-01-17T16:37:00.000-08:00

Way back when I first bought the metal tiles I had planned for them to go into my cabinet, but as I posted before I tried them on the wall and liked it so I had to order more to finish the wall and do the cabinet. Here are a couple shots of the finished room.
By the way Staci came home walked into the kitchen and said I love it,Steven upon hearing this said "Oh no what did you do?" That's my guy who "loves change" NOT!
Staci on the other hand loves to take a risk and try things a little different.

Yikes! And I Love This Guy!

2009-01-13T13:20:00.000-08:00

I wanted to write a little story on how Steven was going to draw me a picture to tell me how to do the snow blower ( guess I am old enough to need picture diagrams), then I realized I have to tell why I am snow blowing and not Steven. Well it seems my little man has pneumonia!!! After trying to get rid of the cough, two trips to the Dr. and one to ER later, we got a call that hey now that the radiologist read the x-ray Steven needs a stronger dose of meds!!!, he has pneumonia. I am not trying to toot my own horn but I told them he was not right. Anyway bless his heart last night after he had taken all his meds, and was drifting off to sleep, he said mom if you bring me a piece of paper I will draw you a picture of what you have to do to start the snow blower, so sweet! We had quite a bit of snow and were supposed to get allot more today with blowing and drifting. Well we did not get allot today but I did go out and snow blow, with out a picture though I told Steven last night I think if you just tell me I'll be OK :)

Guess what I did a fine job, but Steven did get to laugh because he did not tell me how to turn it off so I had to come in and ask him and he told me it took me a long time too!( Come on I did some of Terry and Marcia's )

Mrs. Morgan came by when I was out there and said what is wrong with our boys? We decided the old people are healthier right now than the young ones, but don't worry boys I've got the snow blower covered, even without a picture!

Happy New Year!!

2009-01-02T16:52:00.000-08:00

Let the fun begin My wish for my beautiful daughter...stay strong and happy, strong in your faith, strong in your values, strong in your convictions. Happy with yourself, happy with your family, happy with your friends, and happy with your beautiful smile you share freely. And then there is you my handsome handsome son, for you I also wish your strength and happiness to continue. Your strength in your faith, your strong belief of right and wrong, your strength in support of the under dog. Happiness with yourself, happy with your family and friends, and happy with that giggle that I hope you always keep.

Yes we had fun!

To all of our family and friends it is our prayer for each of you to have health and happiness shared with those you love in the new year.

Treat each day a s a gift and every person as a blessing!

God Bless you all.

WE HAVE THE BEST!!

2008-12-26T16:45:00.000-08:00

No matter what anyone says I know that Staci, Steven, and myself would tell you

'WE HAVE THE BEST NEIGHBORS IN THE WORLD"

and it's not because it is Christmas and they give cool gifts it's because of who they are.

Terry the male role model they look up to ( 3/4 of the neighborhood does)!

Marcia the ever present extra mom and confidant( for all three of us she keeps good secrets)!

Cam my extra son I have called him for years and be assured Steven and Staci definitely feel he is a brother always there inn a pinch and for fun!

Triston the serious one, always ready to help if you need him!

and

Tara the happy,singer, storyteller, and gardener with me!

Christmas with the Bradshaws

I can fix anything I have duct tape

It's hard to catch a photo of Marcia she's always taking the picsI hope these two stay friends forever,

I believe they will always have each others back!!
So yeah it's cold in our house all the kids tell me so.

i wish you could see the make up job today.Yes Staci it's really you instead of Bella!

The most important thing we do!

2008-12-26T16:08:00.000-08:00

REMEMBER THE REASON FOR THE CELEBRATION THE GREATEST GIFT OF ALL GOD'S OWN SON WHO CAME TO EARTH FOR US!

Yep this is the same photo as before because I believe that as parents the most important thing we do is nurture our kids,..that is make them feel loved and secure above all else. Sometimes that is not the easy road as I well know because some of you tell me that(Marilyn) but I know it is the road I am glad to be on. Sometimes it is not the popular road in the house to be the mom but my kids know I will always be here for them no matter what.

They were so happy that they made mom cry with the gift they put together again this year, two picture frames one is above with the saying we have painted on our stairs

"LIVE LOVE LAUGH'

the other says

"A FAMILY IS LIFE'S BLESSING"
To me a gift I will treasure the most is the gift of the strength my kids show especially the strength of a smile!!

Of course there were a couple other gifts for Christmas that did bring smiles.

This Says It All

2008-12-25T12:37:00.000-08:00

The frames and pictures with them that I got from Staci and Steven for Christmas say it all!!

Almost Time

2008-12-24T10:43:00.000-08:00

Well the long awaited Christmas Day is almost here. In Michigan there is no doubt if we will have a white Christmas or not this year(although it is raining today and 30+) Staci and Steven were supposed to go to the cousin sleep over last night but the weather prevented the yearly event form happening. we were watching TV and Steven rolled over and said "OK I CAN'T STAND IT ANYMORE!" I had put a couple presents under the tree about a week ago. So since they couldn't have a sleepover we opened a gift to the family from ole' Santa, it is Pictionary Man, what a fun game.....although you can see the pressure is on. I hope all who read this know you are the gifts we treasure the most n our lives and have a very Blessed and Merry Christmas.

Blizzard of Christmas 2008

2008-12-21T18:32:00.000-08:00

What do you do when you have been in the house and want to get out during a blizzard and burn some energy??

Well you get out the plastic swimming pool and attach a wire or rope all the way around it...

have your friend Chris attach his snowmobile to the pool .....

and you're off and ready to go...

everyone had a great time but boy was it COLD!!

the girls were smart to wear the helmet and paintball mask to protect themselves.

Wonder what tomorrow will bring we still have extra kids snowed in and a spare snowmobile in the garage??

I also have to say Thanks boys for cleaning the driveway...again!

OH NO!!!!

2008-12-21T05:10:00.000-08:00

Well this is an early morning post today I have a problem my little birds are trying to eat and the food is almost gone soooo I am going out to fill it so they don't have to fight I also am taking the camera so I can take some white pictures I know I said there was no sense in picture taking with all the snow but...with all the snow how can I not get a picture of it. The weatherman just said we should tell when the snow is coming by saying the storm the day before today today or the day after today that is the a pattern we are in and it does not look like it will be changing. I am letting the kids sleep and we are going to 11:30 mass in town most all of the churches in the entire area are closed but I think we will be fine staying in town. well out to the feeder if I don't blow away I will be back with a photo maybe....OK I made it back and the birds are so happy they were in the bushes watching me. Here is also a picture of the snow since 10 last night. Opps just got the call Church is cancelled we will be praying thankful prayers that we are all safe and warm.

Now this snow is pretty fluffy so maybe there is not really 9 inches but that is what is in the driveway,..... more to come I am sure once Steven and maybe Tommy, Staci and Tracy go out!

SNOWDAY!!!

2008-12-19T12:17:00.000-08:00

If i took a picture today it would be all white. I did take one this morning while Steven was snow blowing but we have one of those and it was not much of anything except white :) We went to bed last night hoping the weather man was right and we might get a jump start on Christmas break and boy did we...Staci and I were watching the TV at a little after 5 this morning and talking Steven heard us and got up to check for himself that there was no school, Staci and I went back to bed Steven on the other hand was wide awake he checked the computer and then off to the living room for TV and to play football on the x-box. I got up a little after 8 made breakfast for Steven and I, fed my birds, and checked the e-mails. Steven ate breakfast, took the garbage to the road cleaned the driveway and then played outside for a couple hours with the neighbors. Staci got up around 9:30 cleaned up the bird cage, and started to read. Right now everyone is watching a movie and wrapped in blankets. YEP snow days are good!!

Bryan's b-day

2008-12-13T17:15:00.000-08:00

Last night we surprised Bryan. Steven called and told him to come over (which he was anyway) because Syerra and Taylor were coming over with birthday cake. Earlier in the week Bryan had slipped his birthday past us. He was very surprised and they all had fun played Apples to Apples and then watched a movie.

Yep it's winter again!

2008-12-08T20:30:00.001-08:00

Yeah for Steven! He broke out the snow blower after our big weekend snow. Staci and Steven had done a great job of staying ahead of the snow with the shovels until it kept coming and coming on Saturday.

These pictures are for you grandmas and grandpas, I bet looking at these 40 and 50 in Florida does not feel so bad.

P.S. I cannot keep up with the food in the bird feeder the little birds are having a great time....

but...

every morning we find deer tracks there also!

NO PICTURES YET WE ARE STILL WATCHING

maybe if we get a snow day tomorrow we can catch them during the day?????

New Mission

2008-12-02T09:42:00.000-08:00

Well we have a new mission for picture taking.

We know that there are deer in our neighborhood as we see them across the road and in the empty lot.. we also have seen the tracks in our front yard near the ivy that is in front of the porch and under the bird feeder. The night before last Staci was opening the front door at about 8 pm and scared the deer out of our driveway, so we were watching ever since it got dark last night. Sure enough at about 10:30 I looked out and saw them coming across the road. I called Staci as she was still awake, she and I watched them right in front of the house in the flowers and ivy for about 1/2 an hour. They really wanted to come up on the porch because then they could get a the ivy without digging through the snow. Finally one could not stand it any longer and did walk right up to the steps onto the porch because the artificial tree with no snow on it looked so intriguing. It was soooo cool we really were only three feet from the deer but we could not get a picture because of the window and the reflection of the Christmas lights, thus the reason for our new mission...

WE WILL GET A PHOTO!!

Black Friday

2008-11-29T15:30:00.000-08:00

The day after Thanksgiving we always go shopping, we had a good time spent some money and got some good deals. One of the things we like to do is go out for a nice meal this is not just a part of our day it is the first gift to each other for Christmas. Well tonight I have a little story from the day, the point is not to guess where we ate but what we learned while we ate.

Here is Steven holding a crab claw....

Now if you were Staci and Steven was holding the claw would you put your finger in if Steven asked you to?

I think you would all say no, and so should have Staci as Steven pinched. Half of the people in the restaurant jumped as high as Staci did when she screamed. I just sat there and stared in disbelief that she actually did it, we all laughed so hard we were crying. ....And yes she does have a mark still.

Some random "Thankful" moments from 2008

2008-11-27T13:30:00.000-08:00

Well these are in no particular order just some of our most "thankful" moments of 2008 a few I have posted before but then that must mean we really liked what we were doing at the time, or are very thankful for the people in them.

This first one was a BIG step for the mom you see I do not do heights but we really could get some good photo's if we past this sign. Yikes Staci and the other girls went, so I threw caution to the wind(OK I should have been a better example but I love my picture moments) and did it too!!

OK so I don't have a picture of me, I had to take the pics, but I was there and it is BEAUTIFUL!!!

The next couple of shots are of friends at our Halloween get to gather.

Jimmy always has something to say, and is good at getting his point across.

Thank- You God for friends!

Well this is what Bud and I thought of Jimmy's point of view this time.

The kids really have had some great coaches over the years and here is a shoot of Steven and his soccer coach for school this year. Steven had a great time and for that we are thankful.

A great time was had in Hawaii and I have posted several pictures already from the trip here are a couple more again I have to thank God for friends!

We had a ball! First night, I know the faces are hidden but I love this picture the sun was getting ready to set and when it goes in Hawaii it goes fast.

...and we teased Steve about how lucky he was...

Yes Staci 2008 was the year of "Twilight"
OH EDWARD

More WONDERFUL friends and the "Summer Games on Ida Street" as we call them...

could have called this "stand by me" all of theses kids would be there for each other in a heart beat , and some have been they are a GREAT bunch of kids.

For every one we are very thankful.

"Little" Steven, "Big" Steven, Staci and Lisa what a crew! It is really something to be thankful for when the people you look up to are your friend as well as captain and coach!

This is my favorite picture of the year!!

The girls of Ida St.

The handsome dude on the block!

This was a very thankful day !!!!

When I look at the next pictures how can one help but thank God for all of the blessings He has bestowed on each and everyone of us. I hope each person reading this takes time to look back over the year at the good things and let go of the rough spots.

OK maybe Steven isn't to thankful for this moment this year but soon enough he will be.

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T11:13:00.000-08:00

This year we have many things to be thankful for, here are a few.......and a few more.

But here is what I thank God for every day, these two smiling faces. Do we see eye to eye every day?, Of course not, what kind of ride would that be. There are days when you think "oh boy God what next?" sometimes that is a good statement sometimes well... but then all you have to do is look into these eyes and can truly say "hey I see you God and you are good" I hope everyone had a blessed day with family and you enjoyed a thankful heart today.

Look what I started today

2008-11-22T13:21:00.001-08:00

I cannot say look what I did today because it is not finished, but I am so excited at how it looks that I had to post my progress. These first two pictures are of how the kitchen counter looked before I started.

These next two are how it looks now after I have started to put up tin tiles. I have more tiles on order so I did as much as I could today without cutting to many of the ones I have. You can see where I need more tiles obviously.

This picture shows the detail of the tiles and the way I choose to put them.

Twilight is coming!!!!

2008-11-18T18:34:00.000-08:00

Well this summer I posted about the last book in the Twilight series and how I took the girls to the book premiere....this Friday fronts...dry and then back here to paint the backs. Now we just have to count down to Friday...I hope the looooong awaited movie from the first book is opening. The girls have had the tickets for a little over a week already and over the last couple of weeks they have been working on the "new" shirts. First they had to go to Landy's to tie die them...dry, this past Saturday they were here to paint dry, Sunday afternoon back to do the backs dry, and now wear them to school on Friday and of course to the movie!! I hope that, no one gets sick...it doesn't snow..and above all the girls can remain sane during the day at school on Friday.

and I think this summarizes the feelings of the girls..so any potential dates may want to read Twilight .......

Play Dough Anyone?

2008-11-03T16:56:00.000-08:00

Staci is taking a child care and development class at the Vo-Tech Center, the other night she made play dough for credit in this class. Well the final step was to knead the dough with flour until workable. Staci was kneading the dough when Steven finished his homework and he asked if he could help her knead it. I finished dishes and they looked like they were having a great time, and the question "Mom do you want to play too?" The next thing you know there we were playing with play dough for about an hour just like the "Old Days!"

End of Soccer Season

2008-11-03T16:43:00.000-08:00

Well I am behind on my posting the computer was down again....apparently didn't get fixed right the first time!!!!Don't pay for online tech support take it to a local person MUCH better job, anyway back to my life stories :)

Steven had his soccer banquet on September 23 and so this is the end of the soccer season for school, it was a good season considering it was a very young team. The boys came to gather I thought as a team comparing the beginning of the season to the end, and they had fun. Steven really enjoyed himself especially since it has been a few years since he played soccer. I was very proud of the improvements I saw and apparently so was his team as he was voted most improved player (by allot of votes Steven said coach told him) So tonight I want to say GOOD JOB Steven and Thank - You Coach Peters!

TAHNK YOU!

2008-10-19T16:28:00.000-07:00

In case anyone ever wonders who has one of the best families in the world it is us. Here are some shots of why we believe this..it was time to put the new roof on this past Saturday we might miss the "tarp" but the roof is much more endearing to our hearts.

I hope you all appreciate your parents as much as I do mine, they have been a strong and constant force in my life (even at times when I thought I didn't need them to be) for this there is no way to thank them enough for all they have done or do!

I don't think anybody give me more grief than Hank and Bob, but if you EVER need them there they are. Neither one of them like to show emotion, Bob gets a stomach ache, Hank just plain gets out of the way. Sooooo Thank You both for all you do, also I want everyone to know how much we love you and enjoy your company. Deb and Kyle you need to get in here too. Kyle you are great young man don't doubt that Staci and Steven look up to you and you should be very proud of that. Deb you are a very kind person and I am glad we have you.

Then of course there are these two, Steven sorry the sun was behind you and not me in this picture, Staci you look good now I am glad I took this before you hit your head again and again and again.

Soccer Tournament

2008-10-12T20:13:00.000-07:00

We're number 1 We're number 1!!

Thank You Lisa! Look at the faces on these three. They were all so happy to be able to play on the same team. Staci WAY TO GO GIRL we all knew you had a goal in there just waiting to get out but two of them today was great. You have waited so long you should have heard us on the sideline when you were about to score the second one Aunt Beth and I said "she is going to do it again!!" Steven Marc what can I say I see you have two medals there! One for winning the tournament the other ...SPORTSMANSHIP awesome( for those of you who don't know this is decided by the teams we played not our own coach). Big Steven you did a great job as captain this fall you really tried to lead the newer players and that is great, it's kind of hard to be the new kids with a bunch that has played to gather for so long. I am so proud of all of you!

Yes Staci beat the goalie to the ball, you go girl!

And here she is catching the ball and getting control with her knee/thigh.

Steven is racing to the ball he had on his wheels today that was for sure!

Staci had told me just before the announcement that Steven was getting one of the two Sportsmanship Medals for our team, we are both very proud of you Steven way to go!!

Well that's it for soccer until spring but ....

"THEY WILL BE BACK!"

Great Day Here!!

2008-10-11T16:15:00.000-07:00

What a fun day I don't know who was more excited Staci Steven or the mom. This was the first time ever besides church softball(which is very fun not real competitive though), that Staci and Steven played a sport on the same team. Steven was done with school soccer on Thursday at 6:30 and at 6:45 he was ready to play AYSO with Staci. Today they had a regular game tomorrow they have a mini tournament so I will have more pics to post.

This picture is at home before the game.

This is the "trying to be cool look", I said WOW look how alike you two look in this picture. Staci and I had never seen it this much before... As mom I really don't think this is an intimidating look, SO CUTE!!

Staci with the throw in.

Steven getting ready to pass to Staci(#12 in the corner)

That's a kick!

This is my favorite picture, I don't think I need to explain....I LOVE those two and am sooooo proud of all they accomplish!!

Parents Night

2008-10-03T17:37:00.000-07:00

Wed night was parents night at the soccer games, the players thank the parents for the support they have given them through the season and the moms get a carnation. Well I would like to thank Steven for being such a great son.

Homecoming 2008

2008-09-27T18:45:00.001-07:00

This week was homecoming week in Allegan. Here is a picture of how the kids went to school on clash day, and my favorites from the dance.

Steven' B-day September 17

2008-09-27T18:36:00.000-07:00

Well I did not get to take pictures of Steven on his B-Day or post them. He had a soccer game out of town and then went to supper with Grandma and Grandpa, so he had a fun busy day. I am posting a couple of pictures of my handsome son one from the night before school and the other from Homecoming last night.

WOW We have been busy!!

2008-09-16T17:30:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe this is the 16th and I have not posted since the first day of school. Both kids are doing well getting into the groove of school, and both are playing soccer. I really like my new teacher she is a very nice person and a good teacher. I am looking forward to getting to know both Christine(our new teacher)and the other aide Terri who is new to the room and also very nice. I must admit I was nervous when Amy and Marilyn were leaving after 10 years we really became more than co workers, but the friendship will continue to last I am sure.
Well tomorrow is Steven's 15th birthday so I am sure I will have pictures to post(weather he likes it or not lol)
Saturday is Staci's U-6 teams first game so I hope to have pictures of that also.
This is it for the night I thought I had better post so we know what we have been up to.

First Day of School

2008-09-02T19:08:00.000-07:00

Wow! It's evening of the first day of school and I find myself remembering lots of firsts. I know there will be many more to come and I could not be any prouder of the young adults that I live with and that is a first they will always be my "kids" but it is time to call them as they are.. young adults with their own ideas, opinions, and convictions. We have gone from "mommy will you push me?" to "don't push me!", from "Pick me up,and you do it for me please" to "Mom I can do it!" I would have it no other way (most days) The pushing has made two strong individuals, the picking up each other has helped these two great people be there for other friends and family if they need to be "picked up"

It really does not seem like that long ago when these pictures were taken when I look at them, and when I think of the growth that has taken place again all I can say is "WOW God is good!!" I know we may hear that saying often but when looking at Staci and Steven and who they are there is nothing that captures it better!

Look no more little girl but a beautiful, inside and out,
JUNIOR in HIGH SCHOOL!!

Not a silly little boy but a handsome, and kind,

FRESHMAN in HIGH SCHOOL!

Just say WOW! And yes they are both taller than the Mom!

The night before school starts!

2008-09-01T19:48:00.000-07:00

Yep it's true summer is over and school starts tomorrow!

Here are a few images and comments from

"The Night Before School" "Who says we have to go?'
"If I close my eyes it doesn't have to happen"

"Oh she caught me!"

Well the decision was they had to do everything one last time.. I am not kidding the "big" kids were worse than the "little" ones tonight, well the boys I think Staci is excited even though she says she is not ready.

So jump in guys lets race!

I wonder if Cam wipes out on his bike if we can delay school?

Yeah right no such luck.

Staci and Tara decided on a walk around the block I was waiting when they returned...

I hope they all attack school with this enthusiasm this year!!

UGH!!!

2008-09-01T12:24:00.000-07:00

Well if you have been looking and are saying "Lorrie where are you?" I have been here but the computer was not...all is well now so watch for more pics and stories soon. ESP tomorrow I know the kids cannot wait for the first day of school pictures Steven already said so and Staci said yep especially you it's your first day of High School, although I know she is thinking a lot of school too because we had a BIG talk the other night about college!

Steven's on the JV team :)

2008-08-22T08:12:00.000-07:00

Here are some shots of Steven from his first JV soccer game of the season. It's been a couple of years since Steven has played soccer Staci and I were both proud when the game began and he was a starter. I had to take these pictures as he was to much in a hurry to get to the game to let mom take a picture in the yard and he would have to look at the camera, yikes!

This picture shows Steven waiting for the starting kick.

These net couple of shots are obviously Steven going to the ball.

Soon I will get a full frontal photo like it or not for the mom to post here :)

Grandma's visit

2008-08-20T19:00:00.000-07:00

I know no one will believe it I have no picture to post tonight... Even though I said several times I need to get a picture we were so busy playing cards with grandma on the porch that we forget to get a picture. Well anyway we enjoyed Grandma Barb's visit, she usually comes and stays over night at the beginning and the end of the summer. Since this was the second week of my vacation we only had a little pick up cleaning to do before we could set down to serious business of card playing. We play Phase Ten until after ten last night(boy was grandma surprised), and then today before taking grandma to see the High School we played Wizard. A great time was had by all and everyone likes to see Grandma come down, all the kids on the street, and Mrs. Morgan too, Grandma went over to see her last night and when Mrs. Morgan saw us outside this morning on her way home from breakfast over she came. Thanks for the visit grandma it is fun to have you to ourselves.

Summer Games(Ida Street Olympics)

2008-08-16T14:37:00.000-07:00

This is going to be a long post. What great fun we had Thursday night, it was time for some games, we always do this at the end of the summer some time before school starts. This set of games was exceptionally funny.

To get things started the first game was easy everyone sat in a circle except one person who left the area. Someone in the circle is named as the "killer frog", the killer frog takes people out of the game by sticking his tongue out at them. The person who left then comes back and stands in the center of the circle trying to figure out who the "killer frog" is.

Here is Cam having just been killed by the frog.Steven is in the center of the circle trying to find the "frog"
The next game was a relay race. The object of the game was to get your entire team on a noodle, run down around the tree and back.

You start with one team member on the noodle and each time you go down and back you add another these pictures show the final teams.

Next was find the hidden peanut butter cup..it is hidden in the pile of whipped cream and you cannot use your hands to get it...
so line up...
run down...

eat the candy...

eating the candy is not so easy with the whipped cream also on your face and the pressure of your teammates behind you...

but it can be done!

Then we played a game called "spaghetti head", the object be the first to fill your teammates head with the uncooked spaghetti.

Staci had allot of hair to work with but Cam and Steven made quite a handsome team.

One that became a favorite was the underwear race(don't worry we used pajamas)

Line up race down and get a pair of pj shorts...

put them on...

run like crazy.

Now for a really messy game. Cover marshmallows with strawberry syrup and throw them into your partners mouth, he he he...

your partner then sucks the syrup off of the marshmallow, and you do it all again to see who came get them most. This was a personal favorite of mine...

but not everyone felt the same way I did he he he.

A game that proved to be one of the hardest was the wet sweat shirt game. Run down get a sweat shirt out of a bucket of water and put it on. Then it has to be taken off and put back in the water before the next person can put it on.

Getting the wet shirt on is harder than it sounds.

We have a very sporty group here on Ida Street and so the competition is fierce!

An all time favorite that is asked for by all the kids when we paly these games is

the egg toss.

Although it is hard to look cool when your egg breaks!

Or if you get in the way of the other teams egg!

And of course watch out if you get caught from behind if someone has an egg left.

Well that is the end for now but be assured we will not wait four years for our next set of games as the Olympics does, I wonder what Michael Phelpps is doing next week????

P.S. GREAT job on the photos Marcia wish I could have posted all 377 of them :)

Smart little birds

2008-08-15T20:02:00.000-07:00

So tonight I was telling Triston how I wanted Steven to sit and hold the humming bird feeder so I could take a picture of the little fellows eating. Steven laughed at me like I was nuts. Triston said I'll do it....so we sat for about 10 minutes, two times the humming birds flew by but never seemed to look at him...of course, and I am not kidding, 2 minutes after he hung the feeder back up...the little stinker was on the wire watching me...

and then here he comes, well we will try another night.

I am sure we will try another night Triston was a real trouper, he had a coupple bees come and get a drink.

Time for new pictures

2008-08-15T19:52:00.001-07:00

Just wanted to post a couple pictures from this week, boy are my young adults growing!! Marcia just said this week we need to do new pictures and she is right so before school we will get to play again and we will have new photos like we did last year at the park.

Last nights concert

2008-08-12T18:09:00.001-07:00

It seems our porch just lends it's self to being a stage. Staci and Steven used to ask to "do shows", so we would sit on the porch and they would sing or do some sort of gymnastics in the yard and we would clap of course. Well they have passed this on to Tara and often she is more than willing to "do a show" for any and all willing to listen or watch. Tara does a good job of putting her feelings into her songs, however you clap at the end, you DO NOT laugh in the middle, first because it would be rude second because you may get told if it is funny or not, Tonight was serious song about feelings and missing a cousin who had to go home. I hope Tara puts this creativity to use in the future and stays confident in front of others.

Baseball is over :(

2008-08-11T18:51:00.000-07:00

Well the season is over but the fun was not, Saturday one of the coaches hosted a party for the boys who could make it and even in the pool a game of ball broke out. Here are a couple of shots of the boys playing jack pot .

They had a beautiful place for boys to be boys here is a shot of Steven driving the go cart and in the back ground you can see that the adults were able to pick some blue berries.. thank you coach! The season ended what seemed all to fast but that is OK because soccer practice started today for Steven...he he he..that means the day began with a 2 mile run yikes! But tonight when Steven came home from practice he said "if we keep up like this I am really going to be buff!" He loves his sports..well of to watch Micheal Phelps!!

Rachael We're Proud!!

2008-08-07T19:13:00.000-07:00

Tonight I am writing about Rachael that cute little girl who I used to play with at grandma's and grandpa's house, occasionally babysit, and have sleepover "all the way in Allegan"...

Rachael is not that cute little girl any more she is a beautiful young woman!Now is is time for a new adventure and it is not a sleep over "all the way in Allegan" it is a new apartment in a suburb of Chicago and a teaching job downtown Chicago. This is going to be different from good ole' Grand Haven, but I have no doubt Rachael has gifts to offer and this is where she has been lead to share them for now. We will continue to pray for you Rachael as you enter this new stage of life. Look, see the new teacher at Epiphany Catholic School in Chicago, they are lucky to have such a good teacher and woman of strong faith!!!

The Twilight Saga

2008-08-02T19:01:00.001-07:00

At some point during the last school year one of Staci's friends introduced her to the book "Twilight". Well that lead to the next two books in the series, which I have to admit a couple of times during the year I asked is your homework done before you read(how often do you stop your child from reading) This is a very popular series of books with the girls right now so when they heard the date for the 4th and final book to come out off to Barnes and Noble they went to pre-order their copies, thus starting the count down to the release. The big day was Aug 2 for the release, so on Aug1 at 10:00pm there was a party at Barnes and Noble. As soon as the girls pre-ordered the book and found out about the party I was recruited to drive them as Staci cannot drive after midnight.

The girls made shirts and were ready to go.

I saw them come out of the store and before I could turn the car on they were calling "where are you parked hurry, hurry, hurry, so we can get home to read!

It was a very emotional ride home (not for me my worry was I would wet my pants from laughing) They wanted the overhead light on in the car I asked just let me get on M-40 and out of Holland, so between cell phone lights and street light they would peek at the different chapters and pages. I am here to say every emotion a person could have was in the car....

from thrilled squeals, to NO WAY are you kidding me...

... they came home and read off and on until about 3:30 and then quit, sure they did not like the book, and were so disappointed. Steven asked me this morning how the book was and I told him the story, his reply was "well did they read the whole book or just jump around maybe they will like it"...

This is where the girls spent the entire day and now are really back into the book...

Staci has bee trying to get me to put down my crime fighting mystery books and read this series for a long time... well look at her face now because when I went out to the porch today my book finished she asked again "don't you want to try it mom"

200 pages later I said I have to get some work done so I did I put this to gather and as soon as I hit publish post I am off to read also...I'll get those girls!

Coast Guard Festival

2008-08-02T18:41:00.001-07:00

This week was Coast Guard Festival in Grand Haven. This has always been a fun time for me growing up in GH the carnival, the parade, the art fair, and of course fire works. Well over the last few years the carnival has become my favorite part again, not because I go on the rides but because Staci and Steven go to school with me and help with our students. As soon as they were 12 they were old enough to volunteer and are happy to do so. Best friends Cameron and Taylor have been going also since they have been old enough. The festival is fun for our students and fun for the helpers but it is work also, getting in and out of the rides. I could not be prouder of Steven and Staci for giving some of the day to be with our students. Of course after the students go home they ride the bigger rides also :)
This little girl kept reaching for Steven's hat so he shared it with her!

Steven also wanted to get some sun off of her face.

As we were walking around after the students left we ran into our old neighbor April who has always been fond of Staci.

We LOVE our neighbors!!

2008-07-28T13:13:00.000-07:00

I love my goose sign but I think we should changed it to "Welcome to the neighborhood"

I have blogged before on how great the neighbors are and the fun we have on Ida Street, well this weekend was no different. It was a beautiful summer day so of course the kids were in and out of Terry and Marcia's pool, one thing lead to another and it was a pool party both Friday and Saturday nights!

What is a party without entertainment!

Thanks to the "Tan Band" as they are called. As you can see this is very serious business.

Of course there was some swimming, and picture taking.

As always play knows no age limits among friends!

Sorry Tammi this didn't help, Steven turned, and he and Cam got her into the pool...opps Cam went in too.
What is a pool party without margaritas and daiquiris,

non-alcoholic of course for the kids...

...opps a little full,

is it as good as Hawaii Staci? Looks like it.

No pictures of Terry( he was cooking for us), Marcia(behind the camera),

myself(taking it all in lol OK maybe sampling and watching the real margaritas)

Come on by sometime everyone is welcome to Ida Street!

Cinnamon vs. Money

2008-07-25T14:36:00.000-07:00

This maybe should be called don't trust your sister... Staci went to a family reunion last weekend with some of her collage age cousins, yes they taught her some things... Today she offered Ding and Bat $25 if they could eat a spoonful of cinnamon. Here we go, this is not for the week stomach or grandmas...Now you know I have said before these two will try anything, so Staci loaded up the spoons,
and the boys were full of smiles, although if you look closely you can tell they may have actually been trying to decide if this was the smartest thing they have done.

Well they went ahead with the challenge and put the entire spoonful of cinnamon in their mouths. Anyone who has ever licked your finger while cooking to clean off a little bit of cinnamon can guess what happened next, first their entire mouth went dry as there is no way to swallow, then they tried to spit out the cinnamon but because the mouths were so dry there was no way!!

No it does not help much to try and gargle. Don't worry Staci quickly gave them both a glass of sugar water which she had ready before hand and they were both fine, maybe even a little wiser?

"DON'T do whatever someone challenges you to do"

Until the next stunt rolls along they are good for now!!

I wonder if all boys are this daring(gull able) or just the older two on Ida Street.

What has Steven been doing??

2008-07-24T11:35:00.001-07:00

While Staci and I were in Hawaii Steven did not just sit around the house.

Steven spent his time hanging with his other family the Bradshaws, his favorite brother Cameron, his very good friend Tommy and his dad. While he was with Tommy he had a great time fishing. While he was with Cameron they had a great time spending each weekday morning from 10-12:30 in class. What class you say .......

hmmm that picture does not help much look at the next one...yep it is true we have another driver in the house! He is doing very well and has driven everywhere, between Grand Haven, Holland, and Martin. So don't worry if you see us on the road you are safe, so are we.

There were also some soccer games

2008-07-20T09:58:00.000-07:00

Lets not forget to post the reason we went to Hawaii, the soccer tournament. We drove into the soccer complex at Waipio, Wow what a place they had 27 fields including the stadium, the drive was lined with flags announcing the states that had teams participating. For opening ceremonies the night before the tournament all of the teams marched into the stadium and were announced as they entered, it was very impressive, and yes you all know it brought a tear to my eye. One of the most impressive things to me was when the VIP team came into the stadium ALL of the other teams stood and gave them a standing ovation that brought a lump to the throat as well as a tear to the eye. AYSO has the VIP program for special needs athletes and it was great they were included in this ceremony.
Before each game the team had to have their equipment checked and sign in together. Be sure to notice the beautiful landscape we were enjoying during the games.

There was no doubt that everyone was plenty warm already but you still need to stretch before you play.

The girls did not win the tournament but they certainly had nothing to hang their head fro they played very well and got put out by two Hawaii teams who were very good, and not distracted by playing in Hawaii of course. The girls brought all they could to the games and I was so proud of them. What they came away from this tournament with I don't think can be measured with a trophy. For one thing they were one point out of being the top team(out of 181) for sportsmanship that alone shows the character of the girls, not to say they don't play shoulder to shoulder if they need to. The other thing the girls got is an experience that will never be repeated to go to Hawaii with 17 of your teammates, it made the entire year of fundraising worth it. Some of the girls have said they will go back and they may, on a trip after collage, or maybe for collage, or a honeymoon, but they will never forget the trip they took when they were 15 or 16 with their team to play in the National tournament. All the remember whens that will come...remember when we learned to surf, remember when Staci and Tracy took a picture with the surfer guys, remember when the Lawton boys came to watch our game, remember when the Hawaii and California girls could not believe we play soccer in the snow, it will go on and on for a very long time and I am so glad we were able to make this happen.

When it was all over the girls still were able to put a smile on their faces and say hang loose, not to say there were not a couple of tears after that last game, it would have been great to win and go on of course, but as Staci said " hey guys we played the best we could and we lost in Hawaii!" I hope all the girls will always be able to say I gave it my best, look at the whole picture, and enjoy the experience of what they are doing in life, then they will continue to be winners without looking at the score!!! I would like to say "Ma halo Hawaii" I t was a great time!

A drive around Diamond Head

2008-07-19T10:22:00.000-07:00

Our trip to Hawaii was full of beauty everywhere,we took a ride around Diamond Head to see the out of the city landscape what we found was gorgeous.

This picture is the view from our balcony at the hotel.We found many, many scenic turnouts to take pictures and just look at what had been created on this beautiful island

Staci posed for so many great pictures it was hard to choose the ones to post. These show the look back over the city, the clouds that hang over the mountains, how blue the water is, and of course how pretty the girl in the pictures is.
Of course we saw lots of palm trees which Staci thought she could knock a coconut out of with a rock :)

We took lots of pictures of where the ocean meets the shore. One morning we went to a bay to do some snorkeling and we saw so many fish it was great, you definitely are in awe seeing all that God has created and you are reminded not to take for granted what He can do.

Oh yeah we found something else on our drive....as were were walking back to the car from one of the ocean look outs these two were getting ready to go and surf, so.........

someone said these girls are from Michigan and said they were coming to Hawaii to meet hot surfer guys can we get a picture with you. After the first shock in their step the girls turned around and took the picture, and when we got back to the hotel they were jumping at the chance to show the other girls. By the way the "hot surfer guys' told the girls to keep there moms because they are cool!!

As I have said we have so many pictures from this drive I think this final one shows how close we felt to heaven.

We're here lets go to the beach!!

2008-07-16T20:34:00.000-07:00

The girls were chomping at the bit to get to the beach when we got to Hawaii. We did go down quite soon after we get there, but we did take 5 minutes to sit down in the room after taking about an hour to drive the 1o miles from the airport to our hotel. WOW when you hear about Honolulu traffic believe it!!Staci loved these flowers which are beautiful, and everywhere,The next two are a couple of my favorite sunset pictures. It is almost impossible not to relax here.

It was everytihng we hoped...

2008-07-16T19:03:00.000-07:00

...and more! Look at this beautiful picture we could see this every night if we were at the beach. I will be posting pictures of the girls soccer, the beach, the mountains, snorkeling, and of friends. The entire trip was awesome from the minute we got on the plane all the way to the HUGE hug we got from Steven when we got home. I thanked God every day for the blessings He has bestowed on each of us, the beauty of family friends and the world around us was shown to me a thousand times during this journey, by that I mean the beginning to the end from the first planning meeting to getting out of the car at home again. The gifts I have of friends and family I never take for granted I hope you all know that, and the beauty of the world around us WOW I know some reading this have already heard me say after snorkeling, I have no idea how anyone could do that and not believe in God, man cannot create the beauty of that bay or the underwater world. Well that is how I feel about family, friends, and the world we have been blessed to live in, all are gifts from God himself and I will thank Him every day for everyone who has crossed my path.

IT'S TIME

2008-06-30T20:54:00.001-07:00

The year of planning and fund raising is over, now it is time to go to Hawaii play soccer and have fun. I am so sure that there will be photos to post and stories to tell. I am sure this will be a memory that will not soon be forgotten by the girls. My hope and prayer is that they first of all have fun, second enjoy meeting new people, and third never forget what great young ladies they are and show it to others.

Lets call this one "Steven Tara and the Tooth"

2008-06-29T19:11:00.000-07:00

So of course I am always talking about what happens outside or more precisely on the "porch" well tonight was no exception! Tara had a loose tooth that she desperately wanted out,try as she may she could not get it out.Steven, who we have often said is the family pro on pulling his own teeth because of the trip we took to Florida when he pulled two for something to do, had lots of advice for Tara on how to pull the tooth. He was even giving her examples on how to pull the tooth.

After trying several times on her own Tara hesitantly agreed to let Steven help.

Try as he may Steven could not pull the tooth either.

The next thing was to try the old stand by tie the string and slam the door.

Steven tried several times to tie a piece of dental floss to Tara's tooth and he did get it to stay on one time to try and shut the door but alas this did not work either.

Well at the end of it all Tara still had her tooth (in her mouth) and so the tooth fairy will not be coming tonight. I felt bad for Tara she worked so hard and apparently was hoping for tooth fairy money for the ice cream lady to come by tomorrow.

Determination, determination, determination, I hope Steven and Tara both keep theirs strong!

The fisherman

2008-06-28T18:52:00.001-07:00

First you have to put the bread on the hook......then you wait.
The fish takes the bread...

...then you wait.

Let him fight a little while...

...walk him down to the lower platform...

...take him off the hook!

Any questions?

We didn't need anymore fertilizer so the fish did not come home with us.

Beautiful Sight

2008-06-28T18:41:00.000-07:00

Tonight Steven and I were eating supper and it was very sunny when it started to rain. I said Steven there should be a rainbow lets go look sure enough this is what we saw..not one but two rainbows!

Had to put this picture in it catches the rain drops off of the roof(tarp).

Our garden

2008-06-22T15:30:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of the fence between Marcia and Terry's house and our's. I wanted to wait for my Holly Hocks to be in bloom but the beautiful roses may be gone by then, notice my beautiful bird feeder that Steven hung at Christmas.
This is a picture of the path in front of the house, later in the year I will post a picture of the morning glories that are coming up in front of the fence. The vines up by the porch are coming back they are still brown in the middle the deer were up to the porch and eating them this past winter.

Summer fishing!

2008-06-20T15:07:00.000-07:00

Steven and his friend Bryon have been going down town to try their hand at fishing... fishing for "Carp" no we are not going to eat them!! The boys like to fish for them because they sure do put up a good fight and it is just "cool' to say you got the big one in. Well last night I told them that they make good fertilizer for my flowers if you bury them so if they caught one they should bring it home. Steven's eyes lit up "your flowers if I catch one I am going to bury it by my cantalope"....

Hey look Steven caught one and yep they brought it home...

This is what the cantalope look like right now...

...and yep as you can see they are getting the fish, much to Staci's dismay lol she does not want a yard that smells like fish!I am sure that we will keep the progress posted. I love it when they try all life has to offer at least most days we will see how this one turns out.

June 14 oh WOW beat by an "old" team

2008-06-20T14:44:00.000-07:00

Well in getting ready for hawaii Beth came accross a team of 30+ year old ladies who still play competitive soccer. These women call themselves the "Warmones" and they collect used soccer equipment and donate it to needy areas so kids can play soccer, how cool! Well they offered to play our girls in an exibition game to have a scrimage before they play in Hawaii.....the score well lets just say when there is a lady who is 52 on the team don't assume you will jump in and beat them so easily .....or at all. Here are a couple shots from the game.Before the game...

After the game.

Games Started For Steven

2008-06-11T19:10:00.000-07:00

After the long wait games for Steven have finally started!Let the games begin, tonight was the second game and it was probably good I forgot my camera for the first game. We won't mention the score here from that game since I have no pictures from it. What I will say is tonight we beat Wayland 9-3 and man did the guys play well!
It was HOT but no one notices until the game is over.

Oh Boy Here We Go

2008-06-05T18:53:00.000-07:00

I think these three are getting ready to try out for "BAY WATCH"

I don't think David Hasselhoff will be calling soon, but hey it's good to dream...

...maybe if they try the beach instead of a sprinkler? In all reality I love to see the boys still find time to be boys and goof off, who says the sprinkler is only for the little kids!!

YES!! As I said in a post I did in the winter we were ready for summer and the porch times. Well they are here, the weekend we had Tammi and Jack, Mrs. Morgan, and Staci and I, one time. Another time it was Marcia, Tara, Staci, and I having "girl talk", the neighbor in the back walked by and said it is really summer now because you are all sitting outside.

Last night Marcia the kids and I, we had a serious "life" talk and then Marcia and I left and the kids hung out for a while.

Tonight it was these three yahoo's, Tara and myself.

LOVE THE PORCH AND THE SWING!!!!!

Look what Staci got

2008-06-03T19:24:00.000-07:00

The Sports Banquet was tonight for softball and as I have already posted Staci has been playing Varsity Ball so tonight she got her Athletic Letter...way to go Muffit!!As her coach said tonight they may not have had a winning season but they did come to gather as a team and learned allot.

THANK YOU Coach Hammon!
THANK YOU Coach Woodhams...

...on to summer ball.

STEVEN IS NOW A FRESHMAN!!

2008-06-03T18:47:00.000-07:00

Well this is going to be one of those posts where I get a little mushy, first because my son is leaving middle school and of course we all know when I write at night I get sentimental.

If you look in the picture just above the m in middle school you will see Steven (yes on crutches) this is the parting picture they take in the fall for the 8th graders.

I am so proud of Steven for how he is growing into such a fine young man...He has some very strong opinions on life and the ways of the world(sorry Uncle Bob that means Barrack Obama right now) He has a strong opinion of right and wrong, there is no gray area it is black or white, which I admire in him and also struggle with because it does cause a problem or two now and then. Steven is a good friend and has shown how well he will stand by his friends and support them through some tough times especially at such a young age. He also has chosen good friends that have been there with him through some rough stuff.

Well today was the last day of school for Allegan so that meant awards ceremony for the 8th graders as they become freshmen. Steven got the picture above an academic certificate for good grades, certificates for passing all the MEAP standards, and the one below which he was the most proud of......and as he was quick to point out it is not just a citizenship award it is the "Principles Award", which means he had excellent citizenship for all three years of middle school, which in Steven's words means "never got in trouble AT ALL pretty much perfect"
Well "pretty much perfect' is a hard standard to live up to but I am happy with my normal happy young man. Keep up the good work Steven, remembering that you have your faith in God, and a family that will support you no matter what may come in the future. Stick to the path you are on and High School will be fun you know like I always say to ya 'You can do it"

First Pool Time of the year!

2008-06-03T18:33:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday we had the first poo;l party of the summer,

thanks Dave and Karen!

We have a great neighborhood .

Staci and Mason get ready to play chicken.

Steven and Syerra playing monkey in the middle.

I am sure these are just the start of the summer fun pictures to come, be it in the pools on the porch or in the lot...keep an eye out as I have said before you never know what you will see on Ida Street>

Is it summer now??

2008-05-29T18:47:00.000-07:00

Well summer is so close the kids can hardly stand it. School is winding down with end of the year events, and there are three days for the kids, six for me. Ballgames are done at school for Staci time for Hawaii soccer practice and summer softball. Steven has been practicing and is sooooo ready for his games to begin on June 9 I believe, he got his shirt and hat which he of course is thrilled about that means games are so near but then he says " WE GOT ORANGE SOCKS" of course I did not giggle (ya right) A true sign of summer though greeted me in the driveway when I got home. The neighborhood was sitting in a circle having a big discussion so cute I thought.................

...They were playing "truth or dare"!!!

I did listen for a while though and it was harmless!

So all was fine after my first shock of what they said they were playing.

So I went back to thinking how cool all the different ages sitting there ,

notice Cam in the Barbie jeep

Another fund raiser

2008-05-26T19:03:00.000-07:00

Hey on Saturday it was beautiful, what a day for a car wash!we had fun made some money and worked on our base tan(or sun burn) for Hawaii :)

I must say the girls did a better job of calling in cars than the parents.

We started at 10:00 and ended somewhere around 4-5:00.

By the way I should have taken a picture of Staci's feet notice she is not wearing softball cleats the shoe to wear of late and so when she put on sunscreen she should have done the feet..they were the only part of her that burned...oppps!

No pictures of Steven or myself this weekend although we were both at the carwash(mom to work Steven to visit), and we were both at the parade which the team marched in today. Steven for support and I sold a few raffle tickets after marching. Steven also spent some time fishing this weekend but aaaa there are no photos to post?? Hmm wonder what that means. Hope everyone had a wonderful Memroial Day and good weekend.

"COOL GRANDMA"

2008-05-18T14:39:00.001-07:00

We all know we have a cool Grandma but here is the proof....

look at her go on Guitar Heroway to go grandma!And all DeeDee and Lorrie can say is

WOW!

Thanks to Marcie for showing us how!

Bloomingdale Invatational

2008-05-17T13:07:00.000-07:00

This is how it works...They hit it...
you field it!

You hit it... you score!

YOU WIN THE TOURNAMENT!!!

Two Happy Guys

2008-05-14T19:06:00.000-07:00

No matter who you are voting for tonight was an exciting night at the Henrickson house. Sunday it was announced that Barak Obama was coming to Grand Rapids, well that was all it took Steven was immediately thrilled...MOM can we go? Well I am proud of his interest in the election and he has put thought into some of what is going on in this process and listening to the candidates, so of course, I said we will try. I really thought by the time I got home and Steven got done with watching the boys we would just be outside the Van Andel listening on speakers....Well for whatever reason Staci had practice cancelled and so she could watch the boys for Steven so as soon as I got home we left for GR. Look how close we were to the stage( sorry for the quality of the pics but we had to post them)

Then to top off our luck with the timing Steven called Aunt Marcie to tell her we were in and she told him she heard on the news John Edwards was on his way and sure enough he came and endorsed Senator Obama...and we were there! This was a night the boys will not forget!

As I said this is not a political statement one way or the other but how cool to see the boys so interested and excited about the whole process.

MY BEAUTIFUL YOUNG WOMAN!!!

2008-05-08T07:16:00.000-07:00

Last night Staci Jo received the Sacrament of Confirmation!

This sacrament brings the gifts of the Holy Spirit from God

to us through the laying on of hands from the Bishop.

When studying for Confirmation the candidates chose a Saint whom they can relate with or who they can look to their life as an example of living his or her faith, Staci chose St. Clare of Assisi.

The person being confirmed also chooses a sponsor someone who they feel is strong in faith and will support them in the choice to live her Catholic beliefs.

Staci chose Aunt Marcie who an awesome Catholic role model, she definitely lives her faith in everything she does and shares it always. I hope that Staci knows how proud I am of her to stand publicly and embrace her faith, and choose to live by her Catholic beliefs, and responsibilities that come with doing so. Staci and her classmates are great young adults and are I am sure on to do great things for the world by living the gifts they've each been given.

Thank You Fr. Jorgenson for you support of Staci on this journey and Thank You Bishop Murray for coming to Sacred Heart and confirming Staci "It Worked"

GOD BLESS YOU STACI JO CLARE!

14 Years Later!

2008-05-06T19:57:00.000-07:00

In the previous post I talked about our FOTA festival at my school. One of the other wonderful things about OAC has been the on site daycare, which Staci was the first child in 15 1/2 years ago. Steven of course also went to daycare at OAC from birth through age 4 I am so happy with the chance they both had to go with me to work as well as the experiences they had at such a young age and the friends they had. My current teacher Amy also brought her kids to school for day care and her son Nate is 6 months younger than Steven. For the FOTA day Nate came to play his Viola and did a very good job he is a talented young man. Well for the days previous to FOTA I had a toy violin in the classroom that Amy and Marilyn enjoyed hearing me play. Steven found the mini violin and began plying it, which made Nate reply I can play those songs....soon a concert broke out.... ...soon after the concert began some one made the comment you should put your case out for donations, well you didn't have to tell them twice :)

Here are the boys sorting "the loot" I believe they both got $1.40, a jingle bell, and two paper clips. One of them got a cereal bar and the other graham crackers, You can also really see the difference in instrument size in this photo.

Well 14 years after they started school to gather here they are playing again! Boys will be boys, " you've gotta' love 'em"

Time Out from the busy life!

2008-05-06T19:36:00.000-07:00

It's no secret how busy we are at this time of year, but I have to share one of the things I love the most about the spring. At school we have a big festival day we call FOTA( festival of the arts) , ever since Staci and Steven have been old enough they have come to school with me to help with the day. The following are a couple of shots of Steven and his friend David at the festival. When I say friend some may think I am just using the term for one of my students but let me assure you Steven and David are friends, and have been for a few years. I am so proud of Steven for this friendship, my students know when someone likes them and it is obvius that these two are buddies. Steven is quick to ask for David when he comes to school to help. Another thing I am happy to see in Steven is that if we make a trip to the mall he asks are we going to stop in and see David?,( his home is near the mall) Thats what friends do! Proud of you Steven, keep putting the smiles on others faces like this!

Not for the squweamish (is that a word?) tonight

2008-04-23T18:32:00.000-07:00

So I asked and Staci wanted me to take a picture of her latest softball trophy mark! She caught a pitched ball with her shin/ankle area, and as I told her when she asked whats wrong with my foot you can see the bruise has extended down to her foot because there is not much fatty area for the blood to go to. Well Staci wanted to remember this pretty bruise so it is our post for tonight.

Softball Games Have Started

2008-04-21T19:35:00.000-07:00

Well the time of year we have been waiting for is here! Staci and Steven are both practicing ball and Staci has started games.
Here are some shots of Staci's tournament this past weekend, we won't worry about the scores or the placement in the tournament but the girls are starting to come together as a team.

Staci at bat,

she hits the ball, you can see the other team looking it was hit to left field.
On third getting instructions from the coach...

ready to go....

...well YES she scored but mom was to busy watching to get the picture,Duh, well there is always next time.

Soon we will have pictures of Steven but games are not starting soon enough for him.

I guess this is the shot to make when you are playing PIG

2008-04-13T17:23:00.000-07:00

No rain today and the teeth are feeling better so it was time to be outside. Steven and some of the boys were riding bikes, Staci and big Steven were playing PIG with Triston. Well it didn't take long for the two to come together for the winning shot.

Sorry Staci I did put your picture first even though you came in second.

Congrats Big Steven until the rematch anyway!

Dakota stops by!

2008-04-10T12:04:00.000-07:00

Dakota is our friend who until last year lived and played on Ida Street. "D" as I always called him stopped by before a youth group meeting in Allegan Tuesday night, whenever he rings the bell and comes in he says "It's good to be home Mrs. H, where is everybody?" Today Cam and Bryon were gone but Big Steven, and Little Steven, (this is how we tell them apart)were here so a ball game broke out!

Dakota tried to tell us he knew where the ball was going!
Steven ever so politely scoring the winning run!

By the way Staci would have been playing also but she was gone with her ball team to watch Hope College girls play softball, and besides I am not allowed to take a picture of her and post it. She is doing well after her teeth coming out although one of the coaches has now nick named her Theodore!

Staci's next couple days!

2008-04-08T10:52:00.000-07:00

So here is my post for the day. I promised Staci I would not take her picture and post it here, so the things you see here are the same things that re going to be in Staci's view for the next couple of days, plus the bed, couch, and TV. That's it! Staci came through the oral surgery great very sleepy Aunt Beth came out to see her as we left and give her a kiss she(Staci) gave her a mmm hmm and that was about the same thing Grandma Kay and Grandma Barb got when they said 'I Love You" I won't post what Steven and his buddy got when they came to the car to see her when we got home. Steven was good brother got her stuff from the car and went upstairs to get her favorite pillow and blanket to lay in mom's bed. I read to her for awhile got a new ice pack for her and popped in a movie she is in between sleep and the movie right now. All is well in the Henrickson house right now.

Staci

2008-04-05T16:33:00.000-07:00

Today I am doing two posts because it was such a beautiful day all around

the yard.

One of the best things about our neighborhood is that all of the kids play together,it does not matter your age play is play and I am so impressed with the kids on Ida Street for including others.

Staci and Tara having a heart to heart about something. ...and it is time for getting the first "tan" of the year I guess!It is soo nice to be outside.

This is how the "big girls" ended the day...they had fun but I hope they continue to do well in school to get a good job :)...but the smiles are great!

Steven

2008-04-05T16:20:00.000-07:00

We were all outside today for hours it was wonderful, I love to work in the yard and the kids can find loads of things to do. Marcia got out her camera and caught some really good shots again. so here are some fun outside shots from Ida Street of Steven.

This one is my favorite!!...and this is one of Steven's favorites.
Steven and his best friend Cameron.

A Couple Things I have to Admit!!

2008-04-04T06:24:00.000-07:00

OK so usually I am the one who is in on pulling a fast one on someone at work, and I have to admit once in awhile I have said I know just about everything that goes on around here! Well I don't know how they did it but Marilyn, Amy, and Joann got me good on Friday. I got to school and as it was staff meeting day we had to be in the gym at 8:15. Well I knew we were not really having a staff meeting our directors had bought us doughnuts to celebrate Spring break and how well our school had done with our data collection, Mi school report card, ect., you get the idea anyway I thought I was again in the know! Well I got to the classroom and Amy is mopping up water from the floor and says come on I need your help to clean this up... I threw down some towels and said come on we will get it after the staff meeting.. she was soooo slow in coming. Well of course she was she knew that there was a bulletin board FULL of pictures, black arm bands, a walker, and lots of laughs waiting for me in the staff meeting....so much for me knowing everything that goes on at OAC. Marilyn gives me my walker complete with a bag of "things' I will need to help as I grow old.

Such as Bengay, Aspercream, diapers ect.....

Another thing I have to admit is I love pictures but I think I need to learn not to pose for some of them as they may come back to haunt me....and they have. I also need to say here "Thanks' Staci and Marcie for giving some of these pictures to the girls as if they didn't have enough from school.

My Advice don't do snow angels in your swim suit with a camera near!

If you can make someone smile it's all good!

There were some "well" wishes?!

So what have I learned in these past 50 years....

Enjoy life it's a gift to be shared...

Thank God everyday for giving you the gift.

Don't stop smiling just because things get tough...

A smile is the best gift you can give or get...

God, Family, and Friends keep them all near.

If your family and friends get together watch out,

Just kidding I love you all.

Oh Yeah I have to admit I am "50"

Mom's letting go!

2008-03-28T17:12:00.001-07:00

Yep it's time to go to the movie and only Staci and Taylor are going! I thought it would be fine but of course had to ask the girls at work what they did. They are so happy and proud. When I started going places on my own I can remember my mom saying, "go where you say and behave because I have relatives all over" and sure enough I saw people I knew(relatives). I was just sitting here after Staci left and the phone rings I thought "Staci you didn't have to call and tell me you made it to the school to get Taylor" well it wasn't Staci it was my friend Beth calling to say "What is Staci doing??" Beth was picking up Shelby from soccer practice and saw Staci drive in...our girls took driver training together and we have talked about, when will they drive alone,how many kids in the car, and the big one are we ready for this? Well ready or not the time is here!!!!!

It is going to be a time when it will seem you are growing so fast Staci take you time and enjoy the ride. By the way one Grandma got to find out before she went we will tell the other after she has come home, no reason to have them both worry at the same time :) Love you both grandmas and know you both care.

OK OK Mom take the picture"Who ever said you could have a camera anyway?"

Spring?

2008-03-26T18:39:00.000-07:00

Yeah! Spring is here time to get out the hockey sticks and play.

This picture is how a baseball player holds a hockey stick!

Notice the ace wrap on Steven's leg? It really is spring because the ice cream lady came through today, Steven was running so fast he wiped out on the snow that is still here. First raspberry of the year but it did not come from the ballfield :)

What we see and What we want to see!

2008-03-25T20:13:00.000-07:00

Ok snow was fun in the winter when we liked getting a snow day each week but it is now time to be swinging a ball bat not a snow shovel. This is what we saw this weekend! This is what all three of us are waiting for.

Staci had a game cancelled today, and

Steven said yesterday that his season is to far away!!

WHAT is this?????

2008-03-21T14:50:00.000-07:00

What this is, is a picture of my "Varsity Softball Player" what is behinde her is the snow storm that we are in the midst of today. Staci has, or is supposed to have a game on Tuesday next week as of today the field was still covered with snow before the storm started, "Yikes" The nice thing is that the practice field was snow free so maaaaybe they can play there.

Again, you never know what they are thinking!

2008-03-20T19:18:00.000-07:00

Well it was a nice afternoon so the boys were outside and ready for some fun. You never can tell who comes up with the ideas but if one says try it the others say OK. Often it ends up looking something like this to which I reply "Surprize!!"

But as I have said before the laugh it off brush themselves off and they are ready to go again. You never quite know what you may see on Ida Street, some days we say "that's my boy" others you just shake your head and say "he's the neighbor"!

2008-03-19T19:10:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is the first day of spring and we are all ready for it. Staci is already practicing softball and wants the snow gone so they can pratice outside which would really be nice since next week is her first game. Steven is shooting hoops, and riding his bike, he is staring at his cleats and swinging his bat because more than anything he wants to be on the ballfield.

Besides playing softball, and baseball, and working the concession stand at the sports complex(we have said for years we should just move in out there) our favorite place to be is the porch. I don't know which we like the best, breakfast on Sat mornings when we can sit enjoy our coffee and talk or late nights when we can sit and solve any ones troubles who may have one that day. One of the best things we ever did (Thank You Bob) was hang the porch swing, it is the favorite spot of everyone. So for today I say

"bring spring!"

These are the moments we are waiting for.

Is it spring yet?

2008-03-17T19:07:00.000-07:00

I think it is time for spring to arrive and stay. Yesterday there were about three bikes parked in the flower garden ( something which all the kids would run like the wind if I saw this in the summer) Tonight I told Steven leave it there until I get a picture. Grandma and Grandma the drive ways and sidewalks are clear so the bikes and basketballs are out but as you can see we still need to get rid of some snow,so no golfing up here yet Grandpa. Staci is hoping with the rain enough snow leaves so they can practice softball outside. Steven just wants time to fly so he can get out the field. I want to see the sunshine so I can work in my flowers and get something other than bikes in the garden :)

I hope Hawaii is warm

2008-03-15T16:31:00.000-07:00

...that was the feeling today. Staci's soccer team is going to Hawaii to play in July, so we are fundraising from now until they leave. Today we were in the Holland St. Patricks Day parade, so the picture for today is of some of the girls who are going, imagine the fun they are going to have being 16 and in Hawaii with your friends, now those will be some pictures to post :)