Tuesday, November 10, 2009
My Favorite Helper
A Late "Boo to You"
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Happy 15th Anniversary
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Fall Foliage
Saturday, October 24, 2009
'Run, Wendy, Run'
"Ready, Set, GO!!" The 31st Annual Pumpkin Race begins in Grandview Heights, Ohio (Columbus)
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Eighth Grade Extravaganza
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
A Visit with the Mills Family
Recently the Mills family visited for a few days. Kathy and I determined that we've been friends for almost 1o years! Our paths first crossed during a small group we attended during our early years at Mountain Christian Church in Maryland. Looking back at that time in our lives, Trey and I were in such a different place back then--I often think of Maryland as the place where Trey and I finally "grew up". We learned and experienced so much during our 5 years in Maryland--and the friendships that developed will last a life time. To me, one of the true signs of friendship is that the bond doesn't weaken over time and distance. We've been away from our Maryland friends for 6 1/2 years, but time and distance don't dim the relationships. Obviously, we're not able to enjoy one another's company as frequently, but when we do get together it's as if time stood still--we pick up where we last left off. Times are different--the kids have grown--our families have changed, yet our friendship endures. We have been blessed with several friendships while living in Maryland, Georgia and Ohio--we are thankful for each one of you!
The Mills family arrived for an extended Columbus Day weekend; only the boys and I still had school on Columbus Day--go figure?! Kathy and I were amazed at how well the kids played together since they last saw one another two years ago. Following Noah's soccer game, Kathy and I took the boys to the Lego Store at Easton. Jarrod could hardly wait to return home so his new buddy, Alex, could help him construct his lego police car.
After attending church on Sunday, we left for an afternoon at COSI in downtown Columbus. Unfortunately, we weren't all able to attend, but those that did enjoyed the afternoon. COSI is divided into several areas. The kids enjoyed exploring space, the ocean, technology and other areas. The highlight of the afternoon was a toss up between the centrifugal force--remaining against the wall while the floor drops out from beneath you OR riding the unicycle on a tightrope a story off the ground with a 250 pound weight holding you vertical and safe...
Trey fearless as he quickly rides backward down the tightrope and back again.
Emylie rode the unicyle too!
Before Noah left the gate he thoroughly discussed the "ride" with the COSI employee. Once he reached a comfort level--off he went! I have to admit that my heart was pounding incredibly fast watching my "baby"!
Behind the kids is the contraption where the spinning causes one to remain against the wall while the floor drops out! I assure you that Mom did NOT participate in this fun!
On Monday, while the boys attended school, Emylie visited my classroom and was a wonderful helper! The class fell in love with her and thoroughly enjoyed the stories she shared with them.
All weekend Trey was teasing Jarrod about "cow pies". We took the Mills to Graeters (yummy ice cream), but before leaving Trey informed Jarrod we were going for "cow pies", not ice cream. So as to not continue to confuse the poor child, Trey bought "moon pies" and told Jarrod they were the much anticipated "cow pies"--oh my--he LOVED them!
Thursday, October 8, 2009
"Spook"tacular Fun!
Friday, October 2, 2009
"A" is for "Apple"

My preschool class recently visited Buckingham Orchard. Farmer Buck was wonderful and explained to the class how an apple forms. I was amazed at how well this 80 year old man explained this process on a 4 year old level--they were completely mesmerised. In addition, he showed the children how to polish an apple with his polishing gadget and then took us for a quick and chilly walk through his large refrigerator where bushels and bushels of apples are stored. Finally, we sat on the carpet and watched as they used a large press to "smoosh" the apples-- the juice becomes homemade apple cider. After Farmer Buck finished talking with the class, we enjoyed a snack and then headed home. Our first field trip of the season was lots of fun!Sunday, September 20, 2009
We're Special and Wonderfully Made!
Thankfully, God made us all different. We're each special and wonderfully made by Him!Having a "ball"!!










The boys are growing up so quickly, so I cherish all of these games. I may grumble a little trying to juggle the schedule, but it's well worth watching them on their respective fields. I'm very proud of both of them and can't wait to watch more soccer and football this week! Way to go Alexander and Noah!!Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Hard Work Pays Off


Monday, September 14, 2009
Kicking Off Another Season


Noah kicked off another soccer season this past week--they won their first two games (Thursday and his Birthday game, Saturday). Noah floats between offense and defense, but prefers defense because he doesn't run as much...hmmm... I love the look of determination on his face for the final picture in the series. He LOVES to play soccer and has been anxiously awaiting the start since his season ended last spring. It was priceless during Noah's first soccer practice when he and Zack simultaneously realized they were on the same team once again. Zack and Noah played last season together too--and now, have become best soccer buds. We look forward to an enjoyable soccer season Noah!
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Double Digits Have Arrived!







Hanging out by the campfire toasting marshmellows! And, seeing what happens when leaves, wrappers, marshmellows, chocolate and a variety of other items do in a fire!



I can't believe we celebrated your 10th BDay this weekend, Noah. Time passes so quickly and I can't believe our "baby" is now 10 years old! We had a GREAT time celebrating with you and your friends. I'm thankful for the Mommy/Noah time we enjoyed on Saturday while Alexander and Dad were at the OSU/USC game--we need to schedule more "Mommy/Noah" dates! Happy Birthday kiddo!!Friday, September 11, 2009
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
'Going Bananas 4 Preschool'
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Summer Ends, School Begins



Heading off to school for the first time as a 4th grader! Noah had a fun first day and was happy to see his Dad and I anxiously waiting for him at the bus stop that same afternoon. We quickly sat down and finished his homework assignment before heading off to the football field for Alexander's first 8th grade football scrimmage.

Coach decided to try Alexander at Center. He wasn't as enthusiastic about this position (he hasn't played Center during practice), but played the position as best he could.
The following day, Alexander started 8th grade. Initially, he had some scheduling "glitches", but after 45 minutes in the office, his schedule conflicts were resolved. In addition, the 8th graders encountered locker problems too. If the tables were reversed and I was in 8th grade enduring his first day of school--I would have melted into a puddle of tears. Not Alexander, I'm so proud of the way he handled the confusion--very maturely. Although he seemed to have a day of "one thing after another" he enjoyed his first day and seems happy to be back in school with his friends. Sunday, August 23, 2009
A New Adventure Begins for Haiden!

Friday, August 14, 2009
Cooling Off During These HOT Summer Days!



Sunday, August 9, 2009
Risch (Walker) Family Reunion





As years pass, change occurs. The original high school next door to Grandma's house was razed this past year. The school was constructed in 1910 and has been the heart of Logan for many, many years. With the demolition of the school, an era fades into our memories. I can't begin to imagine how watching the slow removal of the school would have affected Grandma--not only did she and Grandpa once teach at the school, but my Dad and Uncle Don both attended the school. I know Grandma watched many football games, including her sons' on the football field that was once her backyard. The purple and white gate above is the original gate and ticket booth which once welcomed Chieftan fans to the football field behind Grandma's house. During the past year, the football field was filled in with dirt and a new elementary school now rests on the former field.










Saturday, August 8, 2009








A butterfly visiting Dad's sleeve. Mom and I noticed that the butterflies,
"Reeds" are formed when 'one glassblower, positioned in a mechanical lift, is raised off the ground while holding the "gather" of glass on a blowpipe. As he blows the glass, the lift is sent upwards and another glassblower pulls the glass down from below'. There are several "reed" exhibits throughout the conservatory, but the blue 'reeds' outside are the most breathtaking.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
"Creeking" at Highbanks



Alexander searching his net for a "catch".
Sam and Noah opted for aquarium nets. They hoped that the smaller nets would be more helpful in catching minnows. Unfortunately the minnows outsmarted the boys.
The boys had a great time together and we hope that Sam will be able to join us again soon!
Monday, July 20, 2009
To Hilton Head and Beyond










































After motorcycle rides, the boys headed to the pool for a quick swim before heading out to see "Harry Potter" with Trey and my Dad. Meanwhile, Beth returned to Atlanta and Mom and I headed out shopping. Our final night, we ate at the Crazy Crab and I was able to snap my annual picture of the boys in front of the fishing boats behind the Crazy Crab.Monday, July 6, 2009
It's FINALLY finished!

















Saturday, July 4, 2009
Let Freedom Ring





















"Macchia" is the Italian word for "spotted". Different colors are used in 








