The kids and I went to see Curious George this weekend. I loved those books growing up, and I wasn't disappointed with the movie in the least. It wasn't one of those computerized, realistic cartoons. It was just like the illustrations in the book. The kids LOVED it. I only wish we could have seen it with the Eddys. Clark, you must see this movie. Very cool.
Sorry about all the different looks lately. Just trying to find the best way to present my blog. I like this one. The black just wasn't me. Here's my newest dilemma. We bought this painting in Lawrence Yesterday. I lOVE it, but we have a few issues. I think it may be too big for the space. The wall is fine, but the focus of the room is all srewed up when the tv is on. Plus Will thinks it makes his tv look small. We designed the room to focus on the fireplace. I like the piece, but it may be too busy. I need help. Any comments? I feel about as decisive as Kerry these days. sigh.
I Love living in Kansas. Here are a few reasons why:
1. The weather. In the past 3 weeks we have hit 68 degrees and -6 degrees (with out the windchill). We have had snow and glorious sunshine. For those of us who have a hard time making up our minds anyway, this weather is perfect. As sson as you get sick of one weather type, it will change. Plus, I was able to take the kids to feed the ducks with no coats in February...case closed.
2. The home of the Jayhawks. They have been so entertaining this year. Who knew they were going to be so good? I think their average age is 10 this year! Can't forget how well the Wildcats are doing in BASKETBALL this year.
3. The wide open spaces. Classic Kansas joke - Kansas is soooooooo flat that on a clear day you can see the back of your head - ha, ha. This is the Kansas I prefer.
4. I love Kansas now for all of the reasons I wanted to leave when I was younger. Its a safe place to raise my family. People are friendly. Its not very big. Things move a little slower. I know I have the time to appreciate the little things because the bustle of the big city isn't right outside of my door. I see 10 people I know everytime I go to Target. I see the governor in the local Eddie Bauer - and no one is bothering her.
These aren't all of the reasons I love to live in Kansas, but they are a few important ones. The most important is that my family is here and together and happy and healthy. It doesn't really matter where we are - the rest is gravy.
I have been thinking alot about my brother Ben lately. He is in training in Alabama right now. His poor wife misses him something awful. Growing up, Ben and I couldn't have been more different. We were so close in age (17 months) but eons apart in personalities. To this day, no one can push my buttons and get me instantly furious the way Ben did when we were kids. We fought and argued and cussed and even got physical at times. I swore I would NEVER like him. Now that a few years have passed, I can truly say that I DO like him. The things that drove me crazy when we were kids (his outgoing personality, his humor, his charm) are the things that make me adore him now. I couldn't be prouder of my baby brother if I tried. He has turned into an amazing man who cares for his wife and son, loves his parents, makes all of us laugh, and lives his life in such a Godly way. When God made Ben, He truly broke the mold. Hopefully a little cyber gushing will make up for the time I tried to throw him out of my car in high school...while it was moving.
PS - nice legs Ben! The goose picture was when Ben was about 2 - one of my favorites!
This is Parker's good friend Hayden. Isn't she about the cutest thing you've ever seen? She reminds me of Abby at her age because of her extensive vocabulary and tendency toward drama. Hayden has anew baby sister named Emery who is every bit as cute as her big sister - adn I think she has as much hair! Parker loves protecting Hayden (she's a year younger and about half his weight). This is absolutely the closest thing he will ever have to a little sister and he loves it!
What a fun night! Last night was Morgan's first grade music program. She has been excited for weeks! Grandma Mary came up from Wichita and let her pick a place to eat for dinner. She picked Johnny Carinos for spaghetti and italian cream sodas. Every six year old has to carbo load before a big music program. 
The program was great. Hundreds of parents and grandparents sqeezed into an elementary school gymn. There is nothing like it - really. But as soon as the kids came out in their pretty dresses and button up shirts, your heart melts. They worked so hard on some really cool songs with actions and ribbons and the works. Morgan is one of the smallest in her grade, so she was in the front row - easier for picture taking moms and grandmas! Good job sweet first grader - we are so proud of you.
P.S. Don't you just love the striped tights!
There is nothing better in this life than playing in a blanket fort with your three year old son. I spent most of the morning getting our taxes sorted out, but when Parker came up with a blanket and said "hug me, mama" it was all over. I would much rather play in a blanket fort than do the taxes anyhow. I have all the time in the world to do my taxes (at least till April 15), but I only get this time with my son once. Thank God I have these precious moments at home.
