Kids and Fish

Went to the store yesterday in search of some algea eaters for my son's fish tank for Christmas. He's had the tank for almost 2 years now and while we clean it regularly we thought they might help. We've had pretty good luck with the tank. We started with 3 Zebradanio fish, which both Dan and Io died. We added another one at some point that we named Kirk Maltby, sorry to say but he's now been put on permenant retirement (if you know what I mean). Other then that we've only lost one other fish named Swimmer. All in all it's been a success and considering that we currently have half of the Detroit Red Wings represented in his tank Zach is pretty happy.
I found a snail (now known as Sammy for Samuelsson) and 2 algea eaters (Lilja and Lebda}. When Zach got home I sent him upstairs to clean the outside of his tank with windex. He was so surprised when he saw his new fish. He was excited because he knew they could do a good job. Katie was excited too, "ALLERGY EATERS" are just what we need. It was so cute I almost hated to explain that they eat algea not allergies. Although, we could use some allergy eaters at our house as well!

Pierre McGuire GET IT RIGHT!

My son is currently watching last nights Flames v Wings game, reminding me once again of how many times during that game I had to say "jerk" out loud. I understand the Pierre Maguire words for TSN and therefore is going to support the Canadian teams. While this makes sense, I've seen and heard many other commentators support their home team and still make objective comments. Last night he accused Franzen or Frahhhnzen or Frenzen depending on how he pronounced it at any given moment, of purposely charging at the goalie. Did he even watch the play??? Yes the goalie got bumped into, and yes Franzen was trying to get into a small space, but he only bumped the goalie when he had to put his head down to avoid getting a puck in the face. Oh, that's right Pierre Maguire realized it after his accusation and had to say something about Franzen putting his head down.
If you are going to be a commentator will you PLEASE PRACTICE PRONUNCIATION, or at the very least decide to mispronounce the name the same the entire game. It is not Kronvall or Kronball it is KronWALL! The fact that you couldn't make up your mind Mr. Maquire leads me to one conclusion...you didn't do your homework. Yes the Flames played aggressively, but in the end it was the composure of the Red Wings that won the game. Which we celebrated not only because they are our team, but because we knew it made you have to take back some of your rude comments during the game. You might want to listen to or watch Mickey Redman or Larry Murphy who both seem to be able to do their job, support their team, and not tear down the opponents.
Oh, by the way...TSN please get your sound fixed before the next game!

Time Warner my Favorite Place for Customer Service!

Would you belive, that Time Warner did it AGAIN! If you read my blog at all you would know that in October and November I've had to deal with issues with Time Warner. Now, it's December and just for the holidays I got to do it all over again!!!!

October-
signed up to get NHL Center ice on 10/7
10/8 3 calls from sales reps to ask if we want Center Ice..uh, yeah signed up for it!
10/9 3 more calls in a row with barely enough time to hang up from the sales reps
asking if we'd like...NHL Center Ice.

Somewhere between Oct and Nov Phil has to call in to get Center Ice reactivated on one of our televisions and is told that it doesn't normally come on both. (which is entirly untrue)

November-
11/5 receive a bill for double what it should be and call not once not twice but THREE times to finally get someone who understands that it is not my fault and to not hang up on me. After 2 days of messing with CSRs I finally get it straightened out. Receive 6 calls asking me to rate their customer service.

December-
12/6 go to watch a game with company over when...guess what it's not on both tvs. Call and get put on hold for 15 minutes (ignoring my guests) so I hung up. Get a call to rate the Customer Service. Rated them as extremely disatisfied.
9:45 call back about Center Ice and ask for a Manager get hung up on
10:00 call back, ask for a Manager, get told I have to talk to them first, and while being transferred get hung up on AGAIN
10:11 call back a THIRD time, tell the person I'm not going to answer any questions till I get a manager and they say, I see you're having problems with Center Ice and in 30 seconds poof it's restored! I told them we need a credit for it on our bill that it has been a waste of my time and energy since October. I get offered $10. HA! Told him that was unacceptable and so he said $15 was the best he could do. I told him I'm calling on Monday to the person who had to deal with the issue last time and after 10 minutes of being on hold he says $25 should make me happy. I of course told him that it did not make me happy, he could put it on my bill but I am still calling on Monday. That for the time I've taken to deal with Time Warner this year I could have made a lot more than $25 if I worked for them.

Don't worry Monday is only a day away and yes...they'll be hearing from me AGAIN!

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas! Hope your holiday season is filled with wonderful moments spent with family and friends.

Time Warner Does it AGAIN!

You may have read my blog on 10/9 if not please take the time to read it before proceeding with this blog.

Now that you've read through the blog on 10/9 I'd like to ask you how many calls should it take to correct a bill for $200 more than you owe. The answer should be 1, BUT not so. It took me 3 calls. 2 to people who didn't think it was TWC mistake. You forgot to pay in Oct. I was told, you were late on your bill, you need to send in your bank records. Considering I was looking at them at the time, and know for certain I had paid each month, I asked to be transferred to a manager. OOPS! I was disconnected.
So I called back and asked to go straight to a manager, actually got to talk to one (maybe he should be counted as person 3?) Your were late on your bill, and we only charged you once for a service that incidentally was listed on the bill TWICE. Let me check on that...disconnected AGAIN!

So, not being one who pays bills late or wants to be charged more than what I owe I called a THIRD time. Got a very nice person, named Taraca.
Taraca I said " I'm very frustrated. I do apologize if I sound angry, it's not towards you but I've called 3 times now, been disconnected twice, have a bill that is over $200 over what it should be, have been told it's because I didn't pay a bill that I did, and last month received 6 calls in 2 days from your Sales department. I'm not angry with you, but I want you to know where I'm coming from"
You know what? She actually did her job. She was polite, understanding and handled my call as quickly as she could. Apologized for needing to put me on hold and when the hold was taking awhile actually came back on line to let me know it would be a few minutes longer. She really should get a raise or a promotion at least!
While on the phone with her my phone beeped several times. By the time I got off the phone with her I had 4 voice mails from TWC asking me to rate their customer service.
YOU HAVE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME!!! I started to respond to one, but afraid it would reflect on Taraca decided to make one more phone call to Customer Service. Before I could call I got call number 5 from TWC asking me to rate their customer service.
I finally got through to a person, who gave me a name to email, and suggested that I email from the customer service complaint area on the website. Although, surprisingly she could not tell me how to get there. So...I found it myself. With an hour and a half now wasted of my day on one problem I emailed their customer service and emailed the person and now I'm posting here.

Give me a break! I should definitely should at the least get some kind of billing credit. Oh...just in case you think they don't care while relating this whole situation to my husband on my cell the home line rang. GUESS WHO???

Yes of course TWC wanting me to rate their customer service. TRUST ME YOU DON"T WANT ME TO DO THAT RIGHT NOW!

Have you voted?

Loaded the kids in the car, took them to get a doughnut on the way so they'd have something to do while I voted. I've been warned that there would be long lines and a huge wait. Surprisingly there was neither. Of course that could be because at 9:00am many were already off to work.



I expected to see touch screens or the punch cards. Nope, I was handed a ballot and told to color in the bubbles. We are a nation with vast amounts of technology, and we color in the bubbles when we vote. I felt like I was taking the A.C.T. all over again. I colored in my bubbles faithfully though, and then took it up to a scanner to have it scanned in. The whole process took 15 minutes. Still I couldn't help laughing as I left. My 8 year old said he wished he could vote. I do too, one more vote for our choice couldn't hurt, but I just looked at him and said "maybe by the time you vote it will be digital!"



Happy voting. Go do it, it shouldn't matter how long it takes it's your right and your responsibility.

Z hits YouTube!

Coach Jeff, one of Zach's coaches posted his goal this afternoon on You Tube. He is so excited to be on You Tube. Of course we spent several minutes discussing that if his team hadn't worked together in the defensive zone he would not have gotten the puck and been able to score. Tonight as he prayed for his day, he prayed for his team, for their win, for working together as a team and...for being on You Tube. He's 8 what can we say!

Gas Tank Mystery Solved!

You have got to check out the link below. It will prevent you from making a very common mistake at the gas station!

http://momelettes.com/2008/10/did-you-know-your-car-tells-you-which-side-the-gas-tank-is-on-2/


This is so cool. I'd really love to know how many actually knew that before hand and never let us in on it.

Obama Commercial

Do you have $3-$5 million dollars to spare? Apparently, Obama does. So what would be a good use of that money? How about a 30 minute commercial talking about ourselves? OR maybe that money could be used for something more worthwhile like:
feeding the poverty stricken
public education
research for cures to cancer
fuel breaks for gas heating
dealing with a piece of the wall street mess
the list is probably endless if we really wanted to take the time to sit down and make one!

The truth is I think it is time that politicians stop wasting money telling people what they think they want to hear. They talk about "changing" the country. They need to start with "changing" their own spending habits and using their money wisely. Yes, I'm sure it was all private donations, but money is money and a 30 minute commercial is not worth $3-$5 million dollars.

I didn't watch it, and had no desire to do so. I'm sure he was pledging to fix all the problems with the country. Is he planning on having the rest of the elected officials agree with him on everything? The President still has to get ideas past the governing bodies of our country, so no president can fix it all. Neither one running for office has a chance of everything going the way they would like it too. So what do we do? We look for the things that will make our country stronger. Faith and Family. Pray before you make your decision on election day, and pray for our country...we are certainly at a crisis of FAITH and Tuesdays election will determine which road the country is on. One to further destruction, or one to rebirth.

Star Wars Returns

Hope you have a wonderful Halloween! Star Wars has returned to the lives of many who dressed up as those characters when they were kids. Luke and Leia can't wait to go trick or treating this year. Let me just say it is not easy to get really long blond hair into a small wig! Happy Trick or Treating!

Think before you Vote!

Have you really spent time thinking about this election. Watch this short video, and then consider the things that are important to you. This election is about more than the price of gas. It is about the future. Please think about it, and please vote for what is important to you, not what your neighbor or co-worker is telling you to do.

Who Am I by Casting Crowns

This has always been one of my favorite Casting Crowns songs. This was recently sent to me, and it is so cool it just has to be shared with others as well. Enjoy it. Pass it on.

The End of Bubba, and ...Bubba?!

Hockey may have just changed for fans everywhere. In the past while you could watch the team you wanted to with NHL Center Ice, you could always hear the announcers you wanted to. Being a Wings fan, this always was a frustration.

If truth be told the media does not really care for the Wings and even when games appeared on Vs or NBC it was rare that impartiality was shown through out the entire game, with support for both teams as they made good plays. At least when the Wings were one of the teams. We've watched far too many games on those 2 channels where they would be telling all the things the Wings could do wrong and only talk highly of them as they were mopping the floor with the other team. Center Ice had the same dilemma but only because on away games you were forced to view the game from the home ice perspective. This year that appears to have changed.

This year we've noticed that the games listed are either (H) or (A) which has allowed us to view the game with Ken Daniels and Mickey Redman. Both of whom, if you've ever paid attention to Wings games call the game like it is. Naturally, they support our team, they are the broadcasters for the Wings, but at the same time we've heard them, especially Mickey, comment on calls that were bad for the opposing team and his famous "holy moly" has been used for good plays by the opponents as well. The best thing about getting the home ice feed. No more will we have to endure the broadcasts of Bubba and Bubba out of Nashville. I'm sure they are good for their team, but if someone could PLEASE give them a lesson in pronunciation and general hockey rules it would be greatly appreciated. It is Frahhn Zen (Like Hanz and Franz) not FRAN zen, and Datsuyk is one of the most widely known players our team has, you could at least get his name right. Oh, and it's Kron wall not Kron val or Kron vall or Kron ball. We've endured many different commentators over the years but they have to be the worst. Of course what can you expect from the team that throws Catfish on the ice. The octopus at least makes sense. It had a significance when it was first thrown and was not done in a "let's do something like the Wings" fashion.
So thank you Center Ice for giving us the choice. Nashville, I wish you well with Bubba and Bubba, but...up here in Ohio we won't be missing them when we are cheering for our team.
GO WINGS!

Is Hockey Taking Over Your Life????

Not sure who this is originally by, if you aren't certain if Hockey is taking over your life here's a way to tell.



IS YOUR KID'S HOCKEY TAKING OVER YOUR LIFE???

You base the next purchase of your new vehicle on whether it will hold six kids, six sticks, and six hockey bags.

You relate directions to places by the nearest arena.

You know every single kid on every single team your child has ever played on... But don't have a clue who his school mates are.

You feel lost when you have a free weekend.

Your spouse waits until you decide where to sit and then chooses a spot on the opposite side of arena.

You become a partner in a skate sharpening business to save money.

You ground your kids for a week (except for hockey practice).

You can rationalize spending $159 on a Synergy for a 9 year old but won't spend $5 on a Birthday card for your wife.

When someone asks how old your children are you respond, "I have a '94 and a '97."

You have had to use a grandparent to take kid #1 to a tournament because Dad was in a Different state with kid #2 at a tournament and Mom had kid
#3 two states away in a 3rd tournament all in one weekend

You have more miles on '08 mini-van than a '66 Chevy

Hockey practices are your entire social life.

You buy gloves according to how loud you can clap in them.

You find yourself missing the parents of your child's team mates during the off-season.

You plan the birth of next child so he has a good hockey birthday.

New baby's first word is Zamboni.

You have been barred from more than one rink on more than one occasion

You Purchase a new $135.00 stick because the old one "didn't have any goals left in it."*

You know a few 5 year olds that are good but "lack focus".

Your kids have asked if Christmas is "home or away".

Time Warner Cable Customer Service Perfection!

A year ago we spent two weeks in a row calling a cable company to find out if they would be offering NHL Center Ice. For two weeks we received various answers ranging from "what are you looking for", to "I've never heard of that", or even " I can't tell you if we will be offering that.". Finally, on the day before the season was to start we decided to quit messing around with this other cable company and to take out service with Time Warner Cable as they knew what Center Ice was and that they were offering it.
Now a year later I realize why we made a good decision. Tuesday, I noticed that we had received 2 phone calls from Time Warner. While we didn't have a message I could see on the caller ID that they had called. I didn't think much of it as my husband was planning on calling them later in the evening to see what kind of deal we could receive for a year long cable contract and to get us signed up for the Center Ice package as the NHL season was about to kick off. He locked in a decent price and the lady assisted him in getting the new package set up on our system.
Wednesday the phone rang, and I noticed on caller ID that it was Time Warner Cable. I thought to myself, they must be calling about the service we just added last night. (although they typically don't do that.) The person on the other end introduced herself and then proceeded to tell me that it had come to her attention that last year we had the NHL package and she would like to know if we were interested in having it again this year. "Well, we just signed up for it last night." I said. Surprised she asked if we had done that on line or via the phone. "My husband called in and spoke with someone, and we should be all set." We hung up and 10 SECONDS LATER the phone RANG. To my surprise it was....TIME WARNER CABLE!
Feeling a large sense of deja vu, I answered the phone....

"Hello?"

"Hi, this is _______at Time Warner Cable. I noticed that you had the NHL package last year and was wondering if you were interested in having it again this year"

"Well, funny you should ask, as I literally just hung up with someone from Time Warner. We signed up for it last night so we should be fine"

"Oh, well. Thank you for your (BEEP, BEEP...went my phone with another call coming in, give you one guess who it was.) time"

"Ok, bye"
I pushed the button to get to the other call and literally started to laugh.

"Hello, I'm not really laughing at you, but since you are the THIRD call in a row from Time Warner, I'm finding this a bit funny"
"
The third call?"

"Yes. I just had 2 calls from you offering to sign me up for Center Ice, which we signed up for last night"

"Oh, I'll make a note of that, is there anything else I can assist you with?"

"No, I think we're all set, thanks."

"Thank you"

SO here we are on Thursday. When, you guessed it the phone rings and its....drum roll please!

TIME WARNER CABLE

"Hello! This is _________ from Time Warner Cable. How are you today"

"I'm fine thank you"

" We have in our records that you carried Center Ice and the NHL package with us last year, were you interested in doing that again this year"

"Well, I'm glad you called to ask, but considering you are the 4th call regarding this since yesterday and we signed up for it on Tuesday night I think we're all set"

"Oh, thank you"

RING RING!
"Hello"

That's right it was TIME WARNER CABLE! Only this representative was quick on the ball, or maybe I should say puck since they were offering Center Ice!

"Hello, I'm calling from Time Warner Cable would you be interested in the Center Ice and NHL Package that you had last year?"

"We signed up for it Tuesday evening"

"Oh, I see that and you signed up for a lump sum bill, is that still how you wish to pay for it?"
Man I wish I had thought to say, well after getting 5 Calls from you I don't think I should have to pay for it...oh, well!

"Yes, lump sum would be great"

"Ok, if there is anything else we can do for you let us know."

I hung up and started laughing. I had a customer over for an all day Crop so I began to tell her about the last 5 phone calls when ...

RING RING RING

Who I wonder could it be, oh, look the phone ID says TIME WARNER CABLE

"Hello, are you calling to offer me the Center Ice and NHL Package"

"Uh, yes I was this is __________ from "

"Time Warner Cable, yes, I know. You see (please read the next part while trying hard not to die laughing!) we are so happy you called as you are the 6th one to call us in the last 2 days, and the 3rd in the last 2 minutes. The thing is we have signed up for Center Ice on Tuesday evening and we have already happily set the DVR to record the Wings game tonight (I forgot it was on VS but it makes the story better to think it was actually on Center Ice), anyway just so you know the Wings are going to Win this evening and we will happily be following the season on the Center Ice and NHL package that we signed up for already"

"Did you say 6 calls?"

"Why yes, I did"

"Oh, I'm sorry about that I'll speak to my manager about that."

"That would be greatly appreciated, you have a wonderful day and GO RED WINGS!"

Thus I do believe TIME WARNER CABLE deserves an award for either really being hockey fans or being money hungry and calling all who have ever signed up for the Center Ice Package. I'm not sure which it is, but YOU GO TIME WARNER I feel so well taken care of and YES I HAVE ALREADY SIGNED UP FOR CENTER ICE. If they call again tomorrow, I think I should be able to get the service for FREE!

The Word is Out!

I've known for a while now, as many have, that Creative Memories is at the top of the photo preservation industry. Not only do we offer many scrapbooking products, we also offer framing, digital organization and digital scrapbooking. We have something for anyone and everyone who takes a picture. Now, the word isCreative Memories is featured in a number of current magazines and Web sites. Look for all the good news about our products and people in the following places:
Create and Decorate, October 2008Includes the Everyday Display in a full-page feature in the Discoveries department. Available on newsstands now.

Create and Decorate, Holiday IssueShowcases the Tag Maker. Appears on newsstands beginning September 14.

Scrapbooks etc. The Ultimate Guide to Digital Scrapbooking 2This Better Homes and Gardens Creative Collection specialty publication includes a full-page advertisement for Storybook Creator Plus Software on the back cover.

bhg.com (Better Homes and Garden Online) Features an interview with Senior Unit Leader Michelle Reese of Ohio, in the "Holiday Gift Tips & Tricks" area of the site. Appears on bhg.com from October through December and is part of an ongoing rotation with other expert tips, tricks and interviews. Look for Michelle’s ideas on the "Tip Of The Day" pop-up window on the landing page.


(this one is really cool! I've met Michelle and actually had dinner with her at a training class!)

Create and Decorate, December IssueIncludes the Merry & Bright Paper Album Kit as a last-minute gift suggestion. Appears on newsstands beginning Oct. 28.

Memory Makers Magazine, September/October IssueFeatures the Everyday Display as a special prize in a reader contest. Available on newsstands now.

Decorating Digest, November/ December 2008 IssueShowcases the Everyday Display, the

Merry & Bright Paper Album Kit and the Tag Maker. Appears on newsstands beginning in mid-November.

Scrapbooking and Beyond, Winter 2009 IssueFeatures a full-length article about the way scrapbooking supports the healing process during a time of personal loss. Unit Leader Phyllis Cumberlander of Washington, D.C., shares her own story, including how she started her Creative Memories business. Appears on newsstands Dec. 2. out. We can now be seen in the following magazines.

Check it out! Creative Memories is taking the industry by storm.

Brrrr!

Fall has definitely hit the Cleveland Area! It is freezing and the heat is back on in the house. The sky is grey and the leaves are turning colors. While those may be things to be depressed or sad about there are good things too about fall coming.
The Top 5 Things About Fall
5 The beautiful colors in contrast with the grey skies (take a few pictures you'll see what I mean)
4 Warm fuzzy blankets
3 Soft glow of candles near the fireplace
( none of us can afford to actually use the fireplaces
with the cost of gas so candles will have to do)
2 Wanting to be inside to get projects done (perfect time for album making!!!!)
And the number one thing about Fall....
1 Televised NHL games are only a few days away!!!!!

Homework Help

Do you find yourself running to and from practices, and meetings? Are you wondering how and when to get homework done. I've finally figured out a system that works for our family. The biggest problem I've had in the past is remember to practice spelling words. Now with my Creative Memories Keepsake display the words can simply be hung by my calendar in the kitchen with a magnet. Then whenever we are off in the car to practice or where ever we are going we can grab the words and spell away in the car.
Also, I've found that keeping a bag of pencils, crayons, school paper and a writing surface, such as a clipboard, in the car the kids can also work on the go for the evenings when time is limited.
The best option would be to just be home everyday after school, but this is the life we all seem to be living. Even when you limit the activities as our family does you still end up on the go, so why not make the go work for you! Just a tip.

A Real Workout

Ugh! My arms are now killing me. I just spent the last 9 minutes in boxing drills on the Wii Fit program. Of course I was trying to prove to my 8 year old that I can do better than him. (which I did!). The Wii fit is not for the light hearted exercise fan. There are some fairly good workouts.
I realize that true exercise guru's might feel otherwise, but still the yoga is not always easy to hold the positions, and the strength training I haven't even attempted yet. It addition now that I've done the step program and unlocked the next 2 levels I have the goal of doing even better on it. I've also unlocked the advanced boxing as of today! It's a lot of fun, and does get the heart rate up and the muscles burning.
Now Zach is on the program trying to box his way past my record. Hope he gets it, it will give me something else to aim for!

I Did It!

Wow! It is a great feeling to get something accomplished. Today after 4 months of making calls I have completely called through my entire customer data base. Now it would be great to say that it took me that long because I have so many customers, but truth is...it simply took me that long to find the time to make calls and log them in!
Have I increased my business any by making the calls? Well, at least all of my customers have heard my name, website and phone number one more time. I did get a few that want more information and a few that want me to add them to my email list. So, who knows where that will lead. Regardless, I'm no longer fearing the phone. I have something to offer with Creative Memories that can change lives. Whether or not they are interested is completely up to them!

Gosh, that feels good.

Raising the Flag

It's that time a year! Pre-season starts this evening. We're ready for a great season of hockey. Hopefully our cable company can decide if they will have NHL Center Ice by the time the regular season starts. (Half the time they act like they don't even know what NHL stands for!) We've met some great new Wings Fans so we're all set to go. All that's left is to raise the flag.

Now it's just a matter of waiting until we can raise the cup!

A System is Essential

There are so many things to do each day. Laundry, dishes, homework and the list goes on and on. The biggest thing I have learned is that it is vital to have a system. I have found that having a few main chores that you get done everyday allows me to focus on what needs to be done, and find time for other things as well. Not only that but it keeps me from going crazy trying to get it all done in one day.
My system is simple really. I keep a notebook of things that I wish would get done around the house. Projects that range from repaint bathroom to weed the backyard. Each day I try to accomplish at least one job from this notebook. Sometimes I get more done sometimes less, but crossing off anything always feels good. Not only that but by keeping a notebook on a day that I might have planned on outdoor job and it's raining I can quickly find something else to do inside. I even list things like finish a month in my photo album. Fun jobs should count too!

I also have a list of chores hanging on my fridge. This chore list allows me to keep track of what
the kids are suppose to be helping with at a glance. They have their own separate chore lists on the doors of their rooms as well. I keep in mind which days are busiest at our home and schedule less chores on those days. Knowing what the kids are suppose to do has made it easier for me not to just do it for them. Included on this list are my chores, laundry, change towels, clean bathrooms, grocery shop etc. That way I know what I am trying to accomplish around the house on a daily basis.

There are still many days that it doesn't all get done. Life happens, kids get sick, extra hockey and cheer leading practices end up on the calendar and things happen. Staying organized is the one way I have found to fight the battle. It's my system and honestly if I didn't have a system and a list nothing would probably get done.

Reading Frenzy

I posted recently how I am currently addicted to Karen Kingsbury books. http://karenkingsbury.com/ I've now read 26 of them. I'm hoping to read through everything she has written. Her stories just take you in and make you want to find out what is going to happen next to the characters.
In the 2 weeks I've read 5 books! (Once I start reading it's amazing how I can find a minute here and there to get a page or two in) This time I read through her Forever Faithful Series and the Women of Faith Series. Both were about families that learned by trusting God more amazing things could happen. The first book was Waiting for Morning. It is the story of a Mom's struggle to live again after her husband and oldest daughter are killed in a car accident. It takes you through her emotions and learning to forgive. The second book introduced a new set of characters and their journey of finding each other again after a moment of weakness that changed their lives. The final book of the series brings the main characters together as they continue their journey of faith and grow their families. They were very hard to put down. In fact, I'd love to see the characters in a story based on what happened 5 more years into their journey of life.

The Women of Faith series was about a couple dealing with struggles in their marriage and how they could overcome what was happening. It offered hope in the midst of trials and demonstrated a way to trust God for the outcome and to take Him at His word. It found me thinking about my marriage more and like the characters realizing again how true it is that God needs to be the center of that relationship.

The books are so wonderful, if you need a good book just check her stories out. If you are looking at the latest book launching tomorrow called Sunset I do suggest starting with the Redemption Series first. It is the first story of the Baxters. You'll want to read the Redemption Series, then the Firstborn Series and finally the Sunrise Series. Don't worry it really won't take long, you might want to take a few naps before you get started as you might end up staying up just to finish one more page!

Time To Lose Your Voice

It's that time of year again! The time of year for losing your voice. Spending countless minutes on the edge of your seat, hoping and praying that the puck will find it's way wide of the net when it's in your defensive zone and then of course to the back of the net in your offensive zone. Moments of sheer panic as a breakaway takes place and your defense men are skating like maniacs trying to get back in time to stop it. Knowing your goalie can handle it, but hoping he doesn't have to. Watching kids get taken down, mostly accidentally, but still wishing for a call to go in your favor.
Yes...it's hockey season. And to answer the question I have now been asked about a million times since Sarah Palin made the comment, YES hockey moms are somewhat like pit bulls! We can look cute and cuddly, but watch out if you make a call we don't like, or score too many goals against us! I really think someone in that campaign needs to create a sign that says "hockey moms unite!" I'd put one up!

Now that I spent an afternoon yelling at the rink, encouraging things like "You can do it!" "Stick with it" "Great Job!" "Come on boys". Ok, a few things like "come on ref make the calls fair", and "how about a call on that". I suppose I should do a game recap.

It was a tight game. The boys played well, and worked hard. Our coaches did a great job. The kids are still working out the kinks and it was only the first game of the season. One player was on fire and did get 2 of the 3 goals simply by out skating and out playing their team. Then there was the backhanded wonder. The kid who with 2 kids draped all over him, took the puck down ice and then shot it back handed into the upper corner of the net. The kids who amazingly can make pretty good shots with his back hand with out having to switch to his forehand. He scored the 3rd goal making it an even game. (Way to go Zach, that's my boy!)
They did come back and win, but regardless it was an awesome thing to be back in the action again. Hope someone buys extra water bottles before the next game!

To quote my daughter at the game "come on crowd, shout it loud, let's go MUSTANGS!"

Feeling Beaten and Fried?

As Moms sometimes we feel beaten and fried. Which is why Momelettes.com was created. This is a great site for finding useful tips for things Moms need to know. I had the privileged yesterday to have an article about dealing with your children's clothes published on the site. Please take some time to check it out and don't forget to stop back often for new tips and information.
This sites founder Jess Stratton is a friend of Phil's from the Lotus Notes Developers Group. (You can read more about her on the site).

What a Beautiful Day!

It is a beautiful day here in Northeast Ohio. The sun is finally shining after days of being overcast, rainy or windy.

To quote Forrest Gump.."that's all I have to say about that"

Fundraisers

Everything costs money. I'm beginning to think life on the Picard version of the Star Ship Enterprise would be nice. "In the future we have no need for money"...or something like that. I'm trying to get through paperwork today some of which is finalizing the flower sale for Daisy Scouts, putting together the fundraiser stuff for 2 kids for our elementary school and of course desperately trying to find 5 more people who would love to go to a Wing Ding this weekend for hockey. UGH! I know we all have to do our share, but really if the each parent could just give an extra $50 to the school and we did an extra $25 to scouts and of course an extra $100 to hockey we could save ourselves a lot of headaches. True we'd be out another $175, but we would not have the hassle of asking our friends and family again to support one more thing, and oh yeah supporting our friends and families one more thing on top of it.


So...anyone want to go to a Wing Ding on Saturday?! Tickets are only $20 a person and it is all the wings, pizza, beer, and pop you can possibly take in in 3 hours!!!!!!

Can't blame me for asking, or if you'd rather I have some candles, cheesecake, cookie dough and flowers to sell!

Completed Projects

My pile of to do may be growing on one side of my desk, but the project pile on the other is getting done! I am so excited about several different projects that I've wanted to do for a long time are now how long I've wanted to create a birthday party album for each of my kids. With Creative Memories Quick Kits in Celebration and I Do, and only 2 hours I have pages done for 8 different years for Zach and 6 different years for Katie. Not only that but room for the next few birthdays up to age 12, all I have to do is add the photos! My Halloween costume album is the same, completed up to this year...which of course hasn't happened yet (add to to do list..find Princess Leia and Luke costumes soon!). I've also hoped to create an album with the portraits of the kids that so often just sit behind the one currently showing in the frame. I recently received a FREE school embossed album from Creative Memories (they love spoiling their consultants) and also FREE school paper. So in just 20 minutes today I laid out an entire album of paper, created a title page and have Zach's kindergarten and first grade picture in the album. As soon as we get the new school pictures this year I can quickly ad Katelyn's Kindergarten and Zach's second grade photos!
WOW! Maybe this year will be the one where the album projects get caught up. With the quick tools and supplies I have with my company I think it is possible.
I love what I do for a job, and now it's helping me continue to celebrate what I do as a mom too!

A Day of Remembrance

Yesterday was a day to think about our country. To think about our families and to hold them a little closer. Last night at PTA our Assistant Principal made the comment that the kids in our elementary schools don't remember the events of September 11th. They were too young, for them it is simply history.
How true that is, as I look at my own children. Zach was 19 months old. I clearly remember going into the bank that morning as I was off to start my errands for the day. Setting him up on the counter to do my banking and the teller surprised at my good mood. "Don't you know what just happened?" she asked. Having a little one I hadn't had the news on, or even the radio on the way to the bank. I was telling him about our day and what we were going. Quickly that changed. I spent the morning trying to catch bits and pieces of information, but not wanting to turn the tv on so that he wouldn't be exposed to the pictures. The day before I had found out I was expecting our second child. The world had dropped out and I remember wondering why we were bringing a child into a world that was in trouble.
Yesterday, dressed in red, white and blue we walked to the bus stop. We talked about the bad people who had made a bad decision that day. We talked about the many families that were missing their mothers, fathers, sisters and brothers and we prayed for them to feel peace as they go forward each year. I know Katie didn't quite understand all we were talking about, she couldn't believe that airplanes could be taken into buildings, and Zach was amazed that someone would want to do that. So we prayed that God would not allow this to happen again.
I'm so thankful that even with recalling those events and talking about it with the kids that I was able to give them a message again that God is in control. Sometimes bad things happen, and sometimes we won't know why they have happened. But we love and serve a God that is bigger then all of that.
September 11th will always be a day of Remembrance. We should never forget those that lost their lives, but we should also never forget the way the country came together. 7 years later, it's hard to say if the US still feels connected to one another. My prayer as I write this today is that it won't take another act of violence for the people of our country to open their eyes to the world around them and start to make a change in how we live.

Gas Money?

Do you know someone who might be interested in more information about being a Creative Memories Consultant? Someone who is in need of gas money, extra income or simply would like to be able to work from home? Join Creative Memories Field Development Managers and other Home Office staff on a Business Opportunity phone call. Dates, times and phone number are listed below. I would be glad to listen to the calls with you and help answer any questions you may have after the call.
You choose the call that works best for you Call (866) 285-7780, pass code 2163111. • Thursday, Sept. 11 - 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. • Friday, Sept. 12 - 11 a.m. • Saturday, Sept. 13 - 9 a.m. and noon • Sunday, Sept. 14 - 8 p.m. • Monday, Sept. 15 - Noon and 9 p.m. • Tuesday, Sept. 16 - 1 p.m. and 10 p.m. • Wednesday, Sept. 17 - 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
The calls are 30 minutes and space is limited. All calls are Central Time. If a call is filled to capacity, make sure to try another time. No registration necessary.


Now is the time to get on board, with our starting kit only $70. What a great way to earn extra income, get products at a great discount and make new friends.

For more information contact me at 440-243-2325 or kropwithkathy@yahoo.com

We're All In The Same Boat

Spent some time today with Area Leaders for Creative Memories and discoved we're all in the same boat. (could be why somedays it feels like it's sinking!). We all have kids and homework, and kid issues. For some it's teenagers for some it's early elementary school. We're all trying to run our businesses, families and lives while trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle and balance between all the areas.
So, how do we do it. Crazy enough it comes back to the same things we learned in early elementary school about getting ready for a project. Make a list of what needs to be done, prioritize and start. So, apparently we have the skills it's just we lose focus. With that in mind, the list is going to be added to this evening, as I come up with a list of what my goals for my business, family and home are. Of course where all of these are concerned it will be best to discuss them with Phil and find out what his goals are. Then allowing him to lead our family in the direction it should go and start walking!
It won't all get accomplished over night, there will always be more to the list. Sitting back and doing nothing won't help either. It's a project, that's what life is all about, to quote one of my favorite shows West Wing..."ok, what's next?"

Got time to Read??

Got time to Read??? Usually, I'd say no! But I'm convinced that a little stress relief each day will make the work easier, and put me in a better mood so, I'm allowing myself time to read or relax a bit everyday. Of course what to read is always a good question.
My newest book obsession is anything by Karen Kingsbury. She has a style that allows you to feel like you know the characters and their lives. The Baxter series which is actually 3 different series combined is a must read. Having finished that, except for the final book to be released later this month, I'm now reading the Forever Faithful series. They are great books and easy to read. Now if I could just convince myself that doing laundry is a stress relief activity too I'd be all set!

Making a Difference

Creative Memories makes a difference in the lives of the people that come in contact with it. Whether it is through their personal photo albums, or memories that they have seen celebrated in others albums. Over the past few years Creative Memories has helped out the Alzheimer foundation and now we are working with Make A Wish Foundation.

This was taken from a news post on our consultant site.
Getting started early with the Make-A-Wish Foundation®
Creative Memories has a long-established reputation for giving back to the communities in which we live and work. Whether at the local level helping individuals or at the national level as a corporate sponsor, we consider it an honor to help organizations whose mission, like ours, is rooted in the service of others. It’s a commitment we’re proud to share with you and one we’re excited to continue with our next non-profit partner, the Make-A-Wish Foundation®.
While our official partnership with the Make-A-Wish Foundation begins in January 2009, many of you have expressed interest in helping the Foundation right away.
There are many volunteer opportunities available at your local Make-A-Wish chapter, ranging from granting wishes and staffing events to helping with communications and providing office assistance.
To find a local chapter and learn how you can help, go to wish.org and enter your zip code at the top of the page.

I'm sure not only consultants can help the Make A Wish Foundation.

To prove how dedicated the company is to them, recently their was a price discrepancy with the catalogs that we purchase. Some people were charged $5 a pack instead of $4 so instead of going through and sending everyone the dollar back for being over charged CM took the extra dollar made and sent it on to Make A Wish, raising quite a bit of money for them.

We can make the difference in the lives of a child or anyone, we just need the chance to show people how to do it.

Mission Organization

I'm so excited! I just read in the news of Creative Memories that our power sort box is back. It wasn't gone for long, only a couple of months and only because they SOLD OUT! They are that incredible. This box allows you to sort 2400 photos, keep them organized and potentially move them into an album of some type for greater enjoyment. It is an awesome thing. I know many people have the paper/card board boxes sold as "photo" boxes at local stores. Many have their photos stored in Rubbermaid containers as well. The problem is that cardboard and Rubbermaid/plastic, are not photo safe. They both contain chemicals that can over time transfer to your photos and destroy them. Why not keep your photos in a box that has been lab tested for safety, durability and long term use.
Not only do we have an awesome system for 2400 photos, we also have the mini power sort boxes for 600 photos. Good for one child, or one subject. We've also just launched a memorabilia box good for baby booties, and other special things you want to keep in a safe environment. Can't wait to open mine up and put it to use.
As always www.mycmsite.com/kropwithkathy for all your photo needs

The List

Did you ever seem to notice that no matter what you get crossed off a list it somehow never stops growing. I was feeling pretty good this morning about what had gotten done this weekend. We managed to get some weeds pulled, the hostas and bushes trimmed and Phil even got the shed cleaned out. On my walk back to the house this morning I got to thinking, that the yard already is starting to need raked...add that to the list my mind said.
And that is just it, I'm always having to add stuff to the list. Dishes need done again, the dishwasher needs emptied and the laundry is going to need folded. So with the ever growing list how do we feel like we've gotten anywhere. I guess that's where the whole Eat that Frog concept comes in. If you have never heard of the book Eat That Frog by Brian Tracy, you probably are thinking that I'm crazy. But the concept is simple. Each day starts with a bunch of stuff you are never going to get completely finished. So instead of being overwhelmed by what you are not going to get done, you need to take the plunge, eat the frog so to speak and tackle the most important things.
The frogs around here today...laundry! It piles up when my in laws visit as they take over the laundry room with their luggage. The dishwasher, again an issue with having company for the weekend. Business wise, 10 calls to rebook events that somehow cancelled for this month, and finishing Augusts paperwork. Those are the 4 frogs for the day, we'll see what other toads pop up along the way.

Also, for anyone who happens to read this, my husband and a group of Computer guys are taking the challenge to be able to do 100 push ups by the end of the year a day. So...anyone interested in joining the female version of this we're going to be doing sit ups/crunches...started today with 30! Let me know if you want to join in the fun.

Life

Schools been in session for 3 days now and already life seems to be returning to normal. Things are actually getting done. We've had breakfast together, read devotions and made it out the door to the bus with no fighting, or rushing. Of course today the bus came 5 minutes early so we were only 1/2 way to the stop when it got there but still we didn't feel rushed.
I've actually even had time for a walk each day, which has been wonderful. Laundry is done, towels and sheets actually got changed this week, and other than the dishes in the kitchen right now the house is in pretty good shape. Ok, don't look at the carpet and the dog hair and hamster poop that has gotten on it.
Regardless, life seems to be more laid back in the last few days. Hopefully, we can all continue to have good family time in the evening and stuff getting done during the day. Vacuuming is obviously on the list for today.
Schedules are amazing things, no wonder so much is getting done.

Creative Memories New Friends

Creative Memories is always launching new products. There is always something to try, and even as a consultant I can't say that I am always SOLD on everything we have to offer. The funny thing is, we're always told "if you use it, they will choose it!"
That being said I try to use each of our products as they come out. Not only to improve my memory celebration, but also to be able to say, I've used it and give credibility to the product. The latest developments are awesome!
We went on a vacation to Idlewild on Monday August 11th. Came home from the trip knowing that I had an all day crop that I was doing the following Saturday. Put my pictures in Memory Manager, cropped, edited, labeled and filed. Printed them out and took my pictures, and the Family Quick Kit and in 2 hours I had a completed album of a vacation that wasn't even a week old!
Easy Does it, I would say so! Next Quick Kit Project, my son's Birthday Party album. Can't wait to get it done!


What about other memory celebration products...check out the Keepsake display coming out Sept 1st. Talk about a beautiful way to display photos and a calendar, as well as notes, and art work or other items you need in your kitchen or office to stay organized. Well done CM!

It's That Time Once Again!

It's that time again! The big yellow bus came down the street at 8:46 this morning and off Katie and Zach went to school. As much as I must admit I was looking forward to a little time to focus on the house and my business I found myself surprisingly sad about them waving goodbye and getting on the bus. It's hard to believe Katie is in 1st grade! I swear we just brought her home from the hospital with dark hair and now the little blonde with no teeth was climbing up on the bus and off to another year of school.

Zach told me this morning "I can't wait for third grade!" I think I had to blink back the tears. Just the other day he was getting excited about preschool, and playing in the sandbox. Not school and hockey. It's good for them to be off to school, and it was inevitable that summer would end. Perhaps I can hold on to this feeling for a little bit and then really enjoy their time home this evening and in the days to come.

Summer is wonderful, but there is something about the lack of routine and the "fun" that is waiting to be had that makes them go crazy. That and the whole Mommy guilt complex. I feel guilty if I work, I feel guilty if I spend too much time with them, I feel guilty for not spending enough time with them when they were little, or wanting to work some now. I'm sure if I stopped to think about it I spend enough time with them, and possibly more than many parents get to, but just the same it's hard to find the right balance.So, now they're off and what will I do with my time?

For starters I took a walk. It was amazing what the world looks like just around the block. Haven't seen it in a while. Of course I ended up waving to the bus 2 times as I walked. Even took the dog on on her 4 house down and back walk. Then of course I had to pull the back to school pictures into Memory Manager so I could post them, and send them to Walgreens so I can pick them up and have them on their bedroom doors as a surprise when they get home. There are plenty of other things to get done around the house, email to catch up on and a conference call at noon, so it's not like I won't keep busy. For now though I have to run, as somewhere I thought it wise to use my first morning to go to the dentist! What was I thinking?! Anyway, I think I'll ask if they want to schedule a lunch and learn, then I can count it as a business appointment for the day.
Have a wonderful day, hope you enjoy the pictures!

Happy Anniversary

Just wanted to finally post again after 2 months.
Happy 12th Anniversary!

Trying to beat Phil to post is not an easy task. Especially since I don't get around to posting much.

Finally

Ok, the truth for me has hit. It only took a few days, and to be honest a few moments of thinking What in the World Did I do??? But...I can now see very clearly. It was a few tense moments and a few bad thoughts.
So.. From now on I'm planning on being honest with people when they ask about Lasik! It is a great thing to be able to see clearly. However, it takes time so everyone who said it was an instant thing perhaps has forgotten. I pray that I never do so I can help others understand.

Let's have the truth!

Ok, it's time for the truth. While Lasik I'm sure will be one of the best choices I've ever made, the healing process is NOT instant. So many told me...I saw perfect the next day. And while I have moments of very clear sight, I just wonder if it's like childbirth and the healing was forgotten by all those that talk of it's wonderfulness.
Not that it's painful, as it isn't. Instead it is frustrating. At moments you see clearly, then like now, it becomes hard to see the computer. It's like looking through a swimming pool. I know it takes time, it is after all major surgery not just a quick thing. I think we forget that it isn't just a quick fix because it goes fast and you do see overall better right away. Just the same it's frustrating at first.
I'm trying to work and get some things done, but small reading details are hard right now as my eyes adjust. I've called and they say that is very normal, just the same it's a bit weird, and makes you question if it will get better.
So...if you are out there and hand this done, please fess up...Was it perfect immediately or did it take the healing time of the 3-6 weeks to really be perfect. I wouldn't discourage others from having it done because of that, but maybe being ready to really take the time to heal and get ready for the frustration mode would be helpful to some. Especially since it might help you to realize that nothing is wrong, it's just in healing mode.

I Can See Clearly Now the Blur is GONE!

Wow! That is the best word to describe the Lasik surgery! I was truly stressed about the first part, won't go into details for those of you who don't like medical type stuff. I think I about broke the one ladies hand during that first part, but as she told Phil she could tell I was relaxing more and more as I went through it.
Basically came home and slept the rest of the day. My eyes are still a bit blurry off and on today. But the weirdest part is being able to see this well without glasses on. I keep thinking, I should have them on. It's like a mental game to try and convince myself that I am seeing well and don't really need them! BUT IT IS COOL! I'm glad I did it, and trust me, ask my friends, if I can do it pretty much anyone can!

Thought you might like the update!

Crazy Time

Schools now out and the crazy days have just begun. In the midst of having to figure out baseball schedules, and hockey schedules and my work schedule I'm now having Lasik surgery on Friday. It's just a crazy crazy time.
Yet, Life goes on and this week

Dominic Hasek has retired for the THIRD time. Hopefully, this time will stick.

Off to the races...todays destination Chuck E Cheese! At least they get FREE tokens for report cards!

Let's Hear it for the BOYS!

Wow! It is amazing how watching your team win a championship never gets old. I watched the cup wins in '97 and '98 and '02 and it was really exciting. But nothing has yet to match up to watching the excitement on our 8 year olds face as he watched his team win the first cup that he remembers.



Wings deserved the victory. They fought hard all season long, and made the team of young and old work to create an exciting package of players. Personally, Ozzy, was the only choice for the playoffs and he proved it yet again that he is who the Wings should stick with. http://www.nhl.com/nhl/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=365315 Check out the articles,

Way to GO WINGS!! Enjoy the moment.

Well this sucks!

All set to clinch the Stanley Cup. I suppose that was a bit prideful, but who doesn't think their team is going to pull it off when it's only one game that needs to be won?! Even let the 8 year old stay up for the WHOLE thing. We were on the edge of our seats. There was truly nothing more Ozzy could have done. Nothing more the team could have done, aside from getting a goal actually in the net. So we live to fight another day, live to need tums another evening, live to allow an 8 year old to watch and hold his breath. He set up his webkinz appropriately named Stanley Pup the chocolate lab, the Chihuahua Nicholas (for Lidstrom), his penguin Zetterbird, and his frog Osgood. Hat trick his Red Wings dog was even watching the game. In the end he went to bed in tears. We went to bed frustrated as well.
I could whine and say that if the refs had a clue what goalie interference actually was the game would have been different, but...now we wait.
Wait for a new day, a new game, and a new desire to win.
Can the Wings pull it off...You better believe it! Will we let our 8 year old watch and wait again...oh yeah! If nothing else, we now won't have to worry about pulling the kids out of school to make to the parade.
http://www.nhl.com/nhl/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=365080

Being that we did watch the game with our 8 year olds I'll leave you with a quote, ironically enough from the Penguins of Madagascar "Well this sucks!"

Go WINGS! The next one is yours!

Almost there!

Got a call today from my Unit Leader with Creative Memories! Just found out I'm only $230 away from qualifying as a Unit Leader myself. YEHAW! This is so cool. Creative Memories is such a great company, with great products, and they really spoil their consultants. The even cooler thing about hitting this goal is that I will get to go to an incredible training next month. Training is such a great way to get motivated and get excited about my business. It is so much fun.

The best thing about working from home though is being able to set my own hours and do my own thing. Which is why at 2:30 in the afternoon I can choose to do yard work, and other jobs I want to get done, and finish making phone calls later. It's up to ME! I love my job!

Can't wait to see what the month totals end up at....this is cool!

Flat Stanley Goes Down Under

Flat Stanley has been all over the world! This time he traveled to Australia. He was visiting with his new friend Kaye.

Flat Stanley first spent time with Kaye at her work.Kaye said:
Flat Stanley had his photo taken today (13th May, 2008) on the advertising Bill Board for Capricorn Liquorice, at Betta Foods Manufacturing Plant in Melbourne, Australia.

Capricorn Liquorice is Betta Foods Brand Name and is advertised at International Trade Shows. Betta Foods Australia Manufacture for local and export market a great range of soft eating liquorice and chocolate coated liquorice logs,

Betta Foods Australia currently export their great product into Canada, United Kingdom and soon into USA.

Hope Flat Stanley enjoyed his visit at Betta Foods Manufacturing Plant in Melbourne, Australia.

Next he visited with Kaye's son Frankie. He took him to work at one of Australia's most popular television stations- Channel 9.

Here Flat was on the set of a very famous show called 'The Footy Show' which airs in Australia every Thursday night. The link for the show is http://wwos.ninemsn.com.au/afl/footyshow/

After visiting with Frankie he went on to visit with Frankie's sisters house. She has 4 young children who Flat Stanley got to play with all the time.

Andrea said:

Well here are some photos!!! Flat Stanley had an awesome day. He visited all the Kinders and Kalani's school. He is pretty knackered and looking forward to his trip home!

Wow! He had a wonderful time. Tired...but otherwise in excellent condition he returned home to Middleburg Heights, Ohio. Today, Zach took him and his travel log up to school to tell all of his friends about his journey.

What did we learn from his travels? In a world where people seem to be out for themselves so often we've learned that their are wonderful people still in all parts of the world. People that have great hearts. People that would take time from their busy lives to hold on to Flat Stanley, take his picture and send a message back to our family. Flat's travels taught us to look at the world a bit differently. While we're glad to have him back home I can't help but wonder if this was a project with no deadline where would he have gone to next?

To all of you who helped with this project THANK YOU! Your kindness to our family, and your careful handling of Flat Stanley are greatly appreciated.

What a month!

It seems hard to believe that it has been 10 days since I last had a minute to post. Honestly, don't know if I have a minute now but... how can I avoid posting with all that has gone on.

Let's see there has been so much happening, where to start...

Flat Stanley! He has been spotted in Australia and is on his way home. Keep a watch for his latest letter and information. He has had quite the adventure and a full recap will be coming soon.

Zach, hockey season is over for the year. It's been a fun and interesting season. They lost the championship game for the Spring League but played hard. We're actually on break until camp the end of July. Guess that's why we went golfing yesterday since it's his off season.

Katie, took her hamster to school today. She is almost done with her first year of school. Seems so hard to believe. 9 more days left, boy do I need to get some things done before that gets here.

Me, well Creative Memories is a blast. I'm in Unit Leader qualifications and will just have to wait and see if we make the sales goals as a team this month. If you need anything, or just simply want to help me make my sales goals...www.mycmsite.com/kropwithkathy

WINGS!!! Wow! Even the VS reporters were saying they were doing well and dominating the game. Once the reporters turn that corner you know good things are coming. It will be fun to see how the rest of the playoffs go. We may even have to plan a quick trip up to Detroit next week!

That's about it in the quick recap of what is going on. There of course is laundry, dishes, cleaning, bills etc as well. Somethings just never end.

Feeling Sick?

It has been a crazy week. I know everyone has their own busy lives and things going on all the time. I'm not alone in that, and yes I also know that we tend to do that to ourselves by filling up the calendar. This week though has just made me feel SICK!

First, it started with a hideous game on Saturday for my son's hockey team. You can read about that on a previous post. Than Mother's Day came and went. Now I'm all for spending time with family, but it would be so nice someday to have a holiday/celebration with just our family. It's certainly not that I wouldn't like to see family on the special day, but it's hard when we've never had a Christmas morning or any other special holiday morning to ourselves. Ok, I'm whining, sorry it's my blog!

Then the school week started. Now it's Staff Appreciation week up at our school, and while I don't have a role in it really, I've still been involved taking pictures, delivering drinks, and baking for it.

Of course the highlight of our week was suppose to be Wednesday...our youngest 6th birthday. I believe she still had a nice day, but what started out fun for me turned into craziness with Zach needing to go to the Dr. So between breakfast and lunch I ran to the pediatricians, came home long enough to get picture cards basically done for the school, ran up to take Katie to lunch, home to check on Zach and then back to school to pick up Katie. By then Zach felt better which was good. We finished celebrating her birthday with dinner out. At which she started to not feel good. Got everyone put to bed, and sat down to relax and watch the Wings play.

Talk about feeling sick! I know I need new glasses but obviously the Refs need to get them first! I can see the goal in the first game being contested for Homer being in the crease but HELLO OUT THERE! This time he was CLEARLY not in the crease. But ok, fine if Dallas needs to win a game on bad calls and called off goals they can have it. The series still belongs to us. And while on the subject Brian Engbloom needs to get a life! Firsts he is all supportive of the Wings, when they are up 3-0, but the SECOND they have a goal called against them, he jumps sides. You Brian are a commentator, suppose to report the story and not be a one sided anyone but the Wings person. So GET A LIFE!

So, now it's Friday. Finally, all are off to school as they both were home sick yesterday and life is onto the next rush of getting ready for a birthday party and then my National Scrapbook Day Event.

Ahh...time for a nap, maybe in a few years.

At least, cough, cough, sneeze...I'm only feeling partially sick. Nothing a good game on Saturday can't cure!

Crazy Hair Day

Have you ever had a day where you just want to pull your hair out? Things aren't going well, and you have just had it. Maybe you've had a day where life just is too crazy? Today at my children's school they are having Crazy Hair Day! Not because they want to pull their hair out, but rather because the students thought it would be funny. So, being the Mom that I try to be I suggested to our son, who currently is growing his hair long to be just like his cousin, that maybe we could do a crazy hairdo. Zach was all for it...so with rubber bands and hair gel in hand we began working on his hair. It certainly got crazy!

Of course we had to do Katie's too! Her's was more crazy, messy instead of crazy fun.

So the next time you are having a bad hair day...remember it could always look like this!

Does it change your view?

Been watching A LOT of hockey lately. Professional and Mite level. The conclusion is always the same in terms of hockey is a full contact sport. The problem with that is at the Mite Level it is not suppose to be. Just the same this weekend Parma proved they don't care about that. Instead they watched their Mites take hits, and check players into the boards. Now some of that while not what is allowed at the Mite level could be overlooked some. BUT when you allow a player to check another into the boards and then follow it up with jabs to the helmet with a stick you have a serious problem.

One of the Parma parents as we were yelling for the refs to do something said "they're just kids". That's right, they are just kids. Kids who now think it's ok to be a thug. It's ok to give the whole team a bad name because you can't control yourself. Kids who are too busy being thugs to improve their skills. Kids that are giving the entire Parma program a bad name.

Watched the Wings and the Stars go at it on Saturday night, checks, hits, intense hockey... funny didn't see anyone take their stick and pummel another guy with it. Amazing...after all Parma will tell you hockey is a rough sport!

Watched another intense mite game on Sunday. Full energy, back and forth action. Ended in a 6-5 win for us. And it was clean fun game for all involved. Funny how when a game is played right it is more fun for all involved.

Go Mustangs! Play your game and thank you coaches for teaching our boys to play while conducting themselves correctly. I know they won't always make the right choices, but thank you for being coaches that will correct them when they do the wrong thing, and not just let it go.

Go Wings! Thank you for being role models even when the game gets intense, and while fights break out, thank you for not going after someone unprovoked just to be a thug!

It's a tough sport, but with rules it can also be fun!

Happy Birthday to Phil!

Today is my wonderful husbands birthday. The morning started for me at 6:20 am as I could hear the kids waking up and then in the kitchen trying to convince Grandma that Daddy needed breakfast in bed. While it was a great thought I decided to at least rescue him from the 6:30 hour and let him sleep for another hour.

The kids waited reluctantly. At 7:30 when they couldn't wait a minute longer they rushed up with toast and a glass of milk for him. It was a nice thought, and he really enjoyed that they cared so much about doing it. Then after a breakfast of eggs and bacon and chocolate chip bread, we gave him his gifts. The kids gave him each a gift certificate for money towards an I Phone, and then the big gift came out. The Wii Mario Carts game. Not sure who liked it more, the kids or Phil. We all took turns playing it, and then off we went on a shopping trip for Katie's birthday.

Well, hope he enjoyed his time during the morning because...we ended up getting Katie her dream present of a hamster. We bought a pink castle cage, and a little hamster which she named Emily Elizabeth. The rest of the day will be about the hamster and then the birthday cake that Grandma and Grandpa brought to celebrate Katie's birthday. Then off to baseball practice and a hockey game. Then finally back to Phil's birthday as we go out to dinner to celebrate one more time.

Of course tomorrow is Mother's Day so Have a Quick Happy Birthday!

Go Wings!

4-1! What a game it was. The Stars played well, but they were out skated, and out shot. It will be a good series, but if the Stars blame this loss on the fact that several days ago they played a 4 overtime game, then they need to give up and walk on back to Texas!

Go Wings! This could be your year!!!!

Did you know?!

I've spent the last 2 days volunteering up at my children's school. They were doing a program called COSI on wheels, What's Wild! It was a really neat program, that the kids really liked. They came in for an assembly where the leader spoke to them about animals in the wild, and what they need to survive, and how we control population by fishing, and animal rescue. Then the students broke up into groups and travelled down to the various stations throughout the room set up to explore. I sat for most of the time at the antler and horn table. I know things about deer now that I never knew before.

Did you know that the volunteers that were up at the program were the same ones I see at almost every event the school needs help with. Why is that? We have 975 students at our elementary school. Why is it that the same 20 parents show up for everything?! It baffles me how parents talk about being a part of their children's lives, but then are too busy to get involved. I know the majority work full time, but what about the ones that aren't working. Or the ones like me who work from home and certainly could find a way to come up for an hour.

I will continue to help whether the others do or not. It's nice to be a part of what is going on up at school. It's fun to know who is in your child's class and for them to recognize you as so and so's Mom. The look on my children's faces when they see me helping out is another reason I won't stop doing so. Just the same, there will always be the wonder of why so few others seem to be available for anything.

Rough Play

I really don't get why some hockey teams feel the need to play rough. Actually, it's really just one team that we've found likes to play that way. We've run into it in 3 on 3 play, and then throughout the regular season and now spring league.

I do realize that hockey is a rough sport, BUT at the Mite level the boys are not suppose to be checking, slashing and certainly not cross checking or punching someone once they've gone in the net. Apparently, the PARMA team that we keep playing hasn't got the message. It's not all the boys, but it is certainly some of them. Our son has played for their head coach during an All Star game and has said how nice he is...so what's the deal?

Last night they tripped several times, ok we'll let a couple of those go. Then they were cross checking and pushing kids after the play was done. I'd say they were just frustrated over the score, but they do this regardless of the score. In all honesty maybe we should have cheered all 10 of our goals, but that is not the kind of team we are. We support our boys, encourage them to do the RIGHT thing and clapped for their goals...all of them, but not as loud as we did for the first 2. Why? Because it is the right thing to not make the other team feel bad about their not scoring any goals.

Here's the message you need to get though PARMA... First, your kids can skate, and they have good puck handling skills. We shut you down because you were too busy being goons to actually play. So maybe if you got your kids together and talked to them about waiting until they were in the peewees to hit and push and check you would actually be able to make a run at scoring some goals.

Good luck with that!

Taking a Break

The way this society is, we feel like we need to constantly work. There is always something to do, and always something waiting to do when the first thing is done. It is simply hard to relax. It doesn't matter whether you work full time, work from home or don't work. There is just to much to do.

We need to stop and give ourselves permission TO RELAX! I'm as guilty as anyone. The crazy thing is I work from home, part time. But still feel that I'm constantly working. The only time I really do manage to stop is at 9 or after when we sit down for an hour or so to unwind before going to bed. So, what can I do to stop that?

The biggest key for me is to take time to do something fun, in between all the work stuff. Put the laundry in, clean the bathrooms, make up menus and grocery lists and then actually work on my albums for a few minutes. GO outside and enjoy the day. It is too easy to stop in front of my computer and work all day long. Regardless of whether I sit at the computer all day or not, there will still be work to do on it later, so TODAY I'm going to take a few breaks and enjoy the fact that I am working from home Part Time and that I can enjoy life to the fullest!

Time with the Kids

It's hard to get things done some days. Maybe because we get so focused on the getting stuff done instead of the people we need to spend time with. This weekend has been no exception.
I decided to get back to blogging everyday, or at least attempting to do so BUT, then Friday came along.

Usually, I've found that working on my blog, or checking email or those kinds of activities work best right after the kids get on the bus for school. Friday though I drove the kids up to school so I could go on a field trip with my daughters class.

If I had to choose whether to blog or go on the field trip... the choice is obvious, the field trip. We headed off to Lake Farm Park in Kirkland, Ohio for a fun day of exploring life on a farm. We saw many animals, and the kids got to milk the cow. It was fun, and luckily we were able to avoid the majority of the rain. It was a good thing because by the evening the rain really was coming down.

So that took Friday, well that and teaching scrapbooking at Le Chaperone Rouse. Then Saturday came along. We had such a mess in the kids rooms from this past winter of being too busy to take care of it. So we spent the day attending Zach's hockey game and then off to the grand clean up. It took most of the day to sort and straighten. Truth is I really need to go back in their rooms now that they are reorganized and pull out the things that they are really done with. After working on rooms we made our own pizza and watched a movie together.

Yes there are still a lot of things that need to get done, but there always will be...the kids won't always be little enough to snuggle with to watch a movie or make pizza. SO, I think the choice was the right one.