Shelby's Day at Camp

Last but not least was my time with Shelby. First we had a chance to taste some chocolate truffles. Last trip out, she and I went to this chocolate shop. She had a gift certificate and I filled in the rest.  Auntie explained, truffles are to be savored not gobbled. So we did. We bought one truffle for each day and we shared. So a tradition lives on. I think the champagne flavor was our favorite this time.

After lunch - see the post on Boiled Peanuts it was off to the City Museum. We found street parking, this time no charge as it was Saturday. This place was the invention of Bob Cassilly when he and his wife Gail purchased a bunch of vacant space in St. Louis. In a couple of years, City Museum opened. The Project for Public Spaces marked this as a "Great Public Space of the World" in 2005. This place is wild! I'd go back just to be able to spend more time again.

Our mission was to gain admission to the World Aquarium on the 2nd floor. It was really crazy and loud. Here we are - thousands of animals and fishes. We scooted through tunnels with the sharks swimming all around us. Yes, did but bring some wax paper to sit on so you can quickly to through. We petted stingrays - actually gentle giants and smooth as a baby's bottom. I swam with a few of them in the Bahamas! Oh course there was a shark feeding session. Pretty impressive. We fed more fishes in other parts of the exhibit.

There were parrotts and none of them wanted a cracker. We watched the otters play. A cockatoo that wouldn't stay in his pearch. He kept screeching on about something.  The slough didn't like the cockatoo and very slowly walked across a tree limb just above our heads.

(ring ring goes the cell phone - Chris heard it as I was almost deaf by the amount of noise - it was Denise - wanted to know what we were up to? Oh having an amazing ball! Why? She's worried about dinner. Heck we just ate. I told her I'd call her back later.)

Shelby  & Chris

In the middle of this day - it became spa day. There was one tank, Doctor Fish, that I could barely keep Shelby out of. Actually, I enjoyed it and Chris tried it a couple of times. The tank had several hundred Garra Rufa's in it. If you don't know what a Garra Rufa is then I'll give you a hint. They are little fishes, silver in color and about an inch long fish. Originating from hot springs in Turkey, these little guys love to kiss human hands and feet. It is quite the rage. After inserting my hands into the tank, feet not allowed at this timne, they came out better than the treatment I get at my spa and a lot more fun.  Every time I looked around Shelby had her hands in the tank.  Dang it the cell phone is ringing.
(ring ring again - guess who - it's Pete - well I didn't call back because, oh, I guess we were having so much fun. They were getting hungry.  Restuarant selection was a heated matter by all the locals.  I didn't care, I'm pretty easy.  Are you thinking that the mommy and daddy are missing out on too much fun?)

After our fill of fishes and all, we went to the ramp room to run about, they went through mystery mazes in the dark to come out the other side of the room. Heck this Aunt was getting a bit panicky when it seems like they were gone hours. I was almost ready to go in after them. My patience was rewarded as they came out from the other side of the room - so was my sunburn.

There was a rope swing, we watched shoe laces made on antique machines, we ran and jumped, though I did stop at taking the tube slide from the 2nd floor to the first floor.  The first floor must be 20 feet tall!! 

What is amazing is the level of creativity throughout this place. Enormous pieces of building architecture have been moved into the place and around every corner is a true surprise.  You can touch everything. Since it was over 90degrees, we skipped the roof top. Now I truly have something to go back and see.

Okay - Auntie convinced the kids that we would eat dinner with the family after crys of "but it's our day".  Talk about making you feel special.  I told them we could do something cool afterwards if we wanted.  Agnes (GPS) was not cooperating and finding the restuarant was hysterical and fustrating.

Denise, Chris, Shelby

Taylor, Me, Pete

Fast forward - we had dinner  at PF Changs - chinese food but not your usual.  It was great and we were able to eat glutin free ( ahem except for the beer).

Dinner is over and  we asked Agnes to guide us back.  It looks like it is going to rain - black skies and all of a sudden the skies open and it pours.  I mean pours, big thunder and great lightening.   I was looking for a place to pull over and wait it out.

There I am, navigating according to Agnes when GPS according to Chris speaks up.  We HAVE TO GO to Silky's Frozen Custard Stand.  Shelby is cheering and yeah, I'm game.  Agnes was getting a bit upset with Chris as she kept on recalculating.  There it is, reminds me of a place at the beach.  Quick, pull in and a mad dash to get out of the rain.  I was instructed what to buy (thanks Chris), a Concrete (like a DQ Blizzard for you east coast people).  WOW and  YUM YUM!  This is better than DQ.  When we finally got home, with our Concretes in hand, we were greeted with sadness that we didn't bring them some.  My response, with a sly grin, we could have got some on your day!

Shelby this was a great day.  Actually each day we tasted our truffles was special. Thanks so much for being a sport and sharing it with your brother.   I'm looking forward to having you & me for a whole day!  Maybe the Doctor Fish spa?

Camp with Chris

Gluten Free Treats

This was an early day.  At the crack of dawn, just after breakfast, we packed a cooler with some waters and Chris, Shelby and I (and Agnes GPS) were off for a day of adventure.

I know I said that I would have a day with each of my nieces and nephew. Unfortunately, the airline and my miles couldn't make it work. So let me say - Shelby and Chris - you are still owed a day each!

Grant's Farm was Chris's choice for his part of the day.  The farm is named after Ulysses S. Grant, our 18th president who farmed some of the land in the 1850s.  The farm was subsequently purchased by the Busch family(think beer).  It is now operated by Anheuser-Busch and is free to the public.  (ahem - except for parking!)

Chris & Baby Goats

Spotted Cattle

We took the trolley ride and saw quite a few of the 900 animals. At the end, we entered the part of the park that you can get up close and personal with the animals.  (note - I have lots of sun screen on today!) 

 "Aunt Patty we have to feed the baby goats" was  all I heard.  Now, some time ago, back when I was younger than Chris & Shelby, I had a run in with a goat.  That goat jumped and marked up my favorite sailor shirt.  Today - that isn't going to happen. 

So here we are at the pen of baby goats.  There are about 3 dozen of very hungry little goats all squeeling for milk.  There isn't much else that could be cutier.  I bought bottles of milk and we, along with lots of folks, were herded by the goats to get a lick at the bottles.

Bud getting ready to show off

We moved on to see lots more animals.  By now it is so hot, most of the animals are not in-the-mood to show off except for the elephant, Bud.  (I'm thinking of an ice cold one now - pun intended)  We climbed up the small stadium, found seats, and enjoyed the show. Woohoo it is in the shade. 

Bud did all sorts of tricks and we learned lots.  After the show, I held the kids back so we could have a personal one-on-one with the trainer.  Shelby and Chris had lots of questions and it was great to learn more about Bud.

Bud showing off

We wound our way back to the baby goats after going through a sprinkler system. It was helping with the hot and dust of the day.

Goats it is and what do you think?  It was lunch time and of course we had to feed the goats again!  One of then found me and followed me around - oh no, I'm thinking, was this guy is going to jump on me.  Nope - he was a leaner and just wanted to be scratched and petted.

Hey Chris, this was fun! I'd go again or lets try another adventure.  With a little navigation, and some info from 'mommy' about our choice for lunch, we were off to Bandana's.

Nice kitty cat...

Some days we need a little humor!  I found this video - an animated cat.  If you've had a cat sometime in your life, you'll get a kick out of this. I must say that all the cats we've had as a family, PusPus, Houch, S*^#H@!&, Pretty Kitty, Goldie, Spooks, Pretty Kitty (I know I said her twice), and Girlfriend (not really a girl - don't ask it was a sad day for us!), Elmo the flying cat and Bellagio. These felines were amazing in their own ways. Right now, I'm the only one with a cat, Miss KC, Chris has a hamster,Dumbledore and Tim has two pembroke welsh corgies, Kirby & Chloe. Hope you enjoy this shortie.

Jessica's Day at Camp

Day 2 was great.  I had a little time and went out to the backyard pool.  Denise & I floated about and Chris continued to splash us up.  It was lovely, while the water really warm, nice to relax.  Unfortunately I didn't pay attention and about an hour later, I was sun burned!  Yes - ouch - I was warmed by the glow for three days.

This day was a long time in coming.  I had made plans in January to surprise Jess for her 16th birthday.  There was some family responsibilities I had to take care of and had to postpone the visit.

So a belated Happy 16th Birthday for Jessica.  Her choice for the day was to go to the St. Louis Art Museum.  As she put it, "Aunt Patty will take me".  There was one requirement by me, it had to be a dress up day.

So off to the museum we went.  The building was built for the 1904 World's Fair.  It is grand and very stately and subsequently the museum moved in.  It is also undergoing a massive expansion that is expected to open January 2012.  We went over the the front desk to get information and a map.  Did I mention the is no admission to the museum?  That is right for the museum as a whole is free, only the special exhibits needed a ticket.    The exhibit, The Mourners, a must see.  We went to the desk to get information from one of the hosts.  I had some questions and our host was just lovely and explained all about the museum.  He slipped us two tickets for the exhibit.  The exhibit - amazing - 40 figures sculpted from white alabaster dating back to 1404.

After getting our map and thanking our host for the information, we made our way around the vairous galleries.  Jess thought he was "hot" for me.  LOL!! 

One of my highlights was to see Jessica's eyes as we rounded each corner of the galleries.  Being in the same space as so many famous artists always gives me chills.  She would exclaim, "I studied that in school".  A real treat was to see part of Claude Monet's Water Lilies.  Ever since my visit to Paris and immersing myself into French Impressionism, Monet is one of my favorites.  There is something about being in the prescence of great art that is humbling and exhilarating in the same breath.  When I see it, I reminds me that - all is possible.

Before we knew it, time had flown.  We were full of all the art we saw and now hungry for dinner.  We had a few minutes to make it over to the Loop for dinner at The Melting Pot.  I ordered a split of champagne so Jess could taste and I toasted her.  She picked out each of the courses.  Our beginning was a Spinach and Artichoke Swiss with vegetables and bread cubes.  The cheeses were just delightful !  Then on to a brightly made salad. 

The main course was a Coq Au Vin cooking broth and a full assortment of fishes, chicken, beef, and an extra order of lobster all with individual sauces.  Wow - this was really good. Jess had tuna steak for the first time!  We relaxed, talked about school, summer, which sauce was best with each item we cooked.

The menu at the Melting Pot covers just about everything.  You couldn't go away hungry.  What you could go away with, is just a great satisfied feeling of great fresh food served in a fun way.

Then on to dessert - a chocolate fondu with fruits and cakes.  Yes we had room for chocolate!  This is all that was left.  Mind you if the pot wasn't so hot, we would have scraped every last spec of chocolate.  When we looked at our watch, it was three hours later.  Isn't dining, great food and great company, just fine.

This was a special time for me.  I'm sure we will have some more dates like these in the future.  Thanks Jess!

Taylor's Day at Camp

It was Taylor's Day with me.  She planned that we would do the Loop.  The Loop is the 6000-6600 blocks of Delmar Boulevard near Forest Park.  Its lined with many shops and plenty of places to get a bite to eat.  We walked the entire street - both sides - walked all the planets and visited with each "star" in the Walk of Fame.  A star is for an individual that has some connection to St. Louis - very interesting to find all these folks!

While it was hotttttt and humidddddd, it was great.  We would hop in and out of little businesses and stores.  Visited a yarn shop, while lots from Vermont, there was some hand dyed roving that came from some sheep not far from the shop.  Another shop had this interesting perfume, we both tried it and kept smelling the difference all night long. 

Several shops had vintage clothing, and some with 'hi' fashion clothes.  The vintage vinyl record shop - Wow, talk about stepping back into time!  There were the shops with all sorts of local artists jewelery, pottery, and artwork.  We missed some of the shops as the either closed early or were not open.  Not to worry, it gives us some places to explore on a future trip.

For me it was a great time! We had a chance to talk about her future at college.  About girl stuff, and just about what was going on.  She'll be leaving for college in just about a week from now to join the undergrad class at  Franciscan University of Steubenville!  Go Taylor!!

To wrap up our evening - we went to Pi Pizzeria.  You may think, yeah? big deal pizza?  I must say it was the best thin crust pizza I have ever had and it was gluten free!  We shared a salad and designed two, very different, great pizzas. I had a local draft beer - while not gluten free, it was fresh and really cold.   We sat back and enjoyed ourselves.  The restaurant was fun, very very busy, and by the time we left (about 7:30), the place was packed - inside and out - with a line waiting in 95degree weather!

Once again Taylor, thanks for a great day!

Anniversay Coming Up

A year ago I was awaiting the closing on my former home and finally being able to move my personal belongings to my new home. In the midst of it all, packing my office for a children sitting stay in St. Louis, an election, and assorted other items in my life.

So a year has passed, the St. Louis trip was great to stay with my nieces and nephew. The move meant I would have furniture in my home. The election - we all know what happened.

When I moved, I promised myself that within a year, I'd be unpacked and better functioning than at my former home. Now, with only a few days to the 1st, I'm a bit frantic with cleaning up the last of the bits and pieces I haven't done yet. A couple of weeks ago, I unpacked the last box when the sideboard arrived for the dining area. That was a great relief. There are now a few items in the garage that need to be cleaned up. Do garages ever stay clean? I hope so as I'd like to get my car back into it. The last couple of client files of older papers need to be scanned, some straightening out of a couple of closets, especially the basement storage. I need to get the studio in better order - it's been a work in progress between guest visits and lace demonstrating events and life in general. It doesn't look much different from a year ago.

Wish me luck - I know I'll make it by the 1st!

An Important Date just passed

While I was away from by keyboard this past week, an important date passed. When I got back of course there is lots to do, the cat, the mail, the email, and catching up on blogs. Now if you need cables, yes you, cables for the tv, the computer or other electronic equipment call my little bro the cable guy to get your cables at the best prices on the net. opps - I got off track!

In his blog he gave such a nice mention to ShelBell, his daughter, my niece So not to forget you,

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SHELBY!

Last year I wrote birthday wishes for each of my nieces and nephews. It was fun to take some time and wish them the best. 2008 wishes for Shelby can be found here. Now I did remember to call my niece twice and send her a singing card as I knew I'd be away.

Now this year she is 14 years old. I'm in the process of making her 'big girl blanket' . Updates can be found on my Creative Sources blog. Shelby is a remarkable young lady. She and her school mates have gone before the MO legislature to let them know that MO needs to have a smoking ban in buildings. These kids made the news, and the MO legislature, while not voting it in now, the MO legislature is now listening to these kids! She loves to partake in soccer, music and let me not forget that she is her school play!

So Miss Shelby - go out there, remember to enjoy each day even when the homework piles up, you will be successful in what you choose to do, so while it is a couple of days late..... play the card I sent you and Happy Birthday wishes from the blog!

PS Shelby - Camp Aunt Patty is awaiting for you!

Another Blanket - This time for Shelby

If you saw my blog a week or so ago, you saw the blankets for Shelby's older sisters. It's become tradition - and now it is Shelby's time. She picked out her blanket, colors were approved and I'm on my way!

The basics is that the blanket is comprised of 154 squares with 7 rounds each - the 8th round is the joining round. So far this is where we are:

The first round - lite pink is complete! All 154 of them! The second round - adding a burgandy like color is on about 130 of them so far. Progress!

The Three Girls!

So Camp continues, my three nieces from St. Louis had their very first sleep over with me. It was great to spend our time just hanging out and sharing their thoughts hopes and dreams. We talked into the late evening and even watched a video - girls night out. Really bad and silly.
The following day it was sleep in, for them at least I finished Jessica's big girl blanket finally. It was a crochet piece in a patchwork quilt pattern. Then it was Shelby's turn to pick out a blanket for herself. After lots of books, and even a trial swatch of a red pattern subsitiuted into blues, she decieded on a a StarBurst pattern.

The rest of the day, we had breakfast,brunch, lunch. In a meal as that anything goes - even fudge!! It was then off to the library to drop off books and, but of course, borrow more books paper and cd and takeaway and a cd of music. We then left to so go to Milford to birthday shop at Mood Swings though it had closed early. Sad - so - I took them to the beach and we walked the beach for a bit. Great day outside. After our little adventure at low tide, we all went to dinner at the Outrigger. It's on the Sound, and we sat out on the deck for a lovely dinner. I must say we were the only table showing we were having lots of fun on the Monday night. We had lots of laughs, a bit of silliness, and most of all great memories. Thanks girls...... love ya Aunt Patty

Reservation Two

Camp is going to be fun this summer. Tonight I'm attending a concert - provided it doesn't get rained out again! Last night around 5pm all the heavens and maybe some hell fell down upon the greater Hartford area. I lost power until earlier today. The turnpike was shut down - that was a sight to see! WestFarms Mall had to close.

Tonight's concert is the Talcott Mountain series to be held in Simsbury featuring HSO and it will be a tribute to Woodstock. You remember that time/place 40 yrs ago?

The next reservation was just received for Aunt Patty Camp. I invited (through my sister-in-law - following protocol) my three nieces that live in St. Louis to spend the night with me on their trip out here later this summer. I was just "chatting" (yes online on FB) with my oldest niece and found out that the offer I made has been accepted. The pressure is on. As she said "Taylor Foley WE'RE STAYING AT YOUR HOUSE!!I'm so excited!!! It's gunna be the best girls night ever!!!"

I better get KC prepared!

Recipes - can you find your favorite

Lots and Lots of them. They come on those plastic covered cards that were part of a 'come-on' to buy the program, small scraps of paper, small cute 'cards' lovingly hand written of that favorite dish. My favorite are clippings from newspapers, and photocopies of photocopies and emails and my famous I'll write it up better when I get a chance scrap (lol).

.

When I moved to my new home, there were little corners that were not yet "organizaed" to meet my new life. The cook book shelf was one of them. With my new place I've begun to entertain on a regular basis. Now where were those exceptional recipes that I so enjoyed - I do remember part of them, though something seems missing.
.
So it's time to get them in place. There isn't a great way to save them all, so I opted for some non-glare page protectors (on sale) and an old three-ring binder. At least I can see both sides of some of those pages and they are about the same size. It was a trip down memory lane. I made this one when I first went to meet a friend's family - it was really good. Greca vegetables Oh, my buffet scape for my New Years brunch and finding Nat Nat's zapalas in her hand writting. Aunty Marl's orange macaroni salad. Hmmm I didn't find Denise's "fake potato" dish (its really califlower and it is sooo good!) I'll have to email her again.
.
If you want to get them some order, separate them into 'keep' and 'not in this lifetime'. It might seem funny but somehow I got one of them that must have looked good at that time? Anyway you know what to do with those! Next advice - do not make a project of this. No intense cataloguing system - just get them in the book, and worry about organization later. My book has two sections - first - just made in the last year and second - maybe sometime in the future.
.
By the way - share a favorite - hand write it down, an email while quick doesn't have the same feeling when you can see the handwritting. Enjoy! I hope you can find your favorites!

Happy Birthday Denise

..... Happy Birthday to You ......


Happy Birthday to You......... May you enjoy YOUR day ----- and not be the one cooking! Have the Gang take you out for GF pancakes!


What a linking of events..... believing that my decision to come back to Central to finish my degree would have had my brother make his college decision to also attend this fine institution! Then he meeting you - we got the best of that one! Now some two decades later..... you are still with us! Since you are the one generally behind the camera - that meant I had to look far and near to find a couple of pictures to celebrate you.

May this year be filled with lots off good wishes - We have all been blessed to have you join our family. How many moves, from CT (the tempy CT home) to PA and now in MO - pretty good, and you have always been a gracious hostess.

Keeping the kids' schedules is a monumental effort - I did get a taste of it for a few days, though you had most of the bases covered. Who goes where, when and with who.... quite the logistics director. Besides that, you have been quite instrumental in bringing up four beautiful children.

So now on to more adventures - though it will take some creativity to top the "H.O.W. 2008 Summer Tour", I'm sure you have some ideas up your sleeve.

Know you are blessed,,,,, know you are loved by many.......... and most of all....... love each day..... Happy Birthday.

Love,
Patty, alias the imported sitter!

Happy Birthday Jessica

Hi Jessica,

Today - I wish you a Happy Birthday - the best birthday yet. My recent visit only confirms how absolutely wonderfully you are growing up to be an outstanding young woman.

Your parents called you their little Buddha, you liked to watch the symphony at three years old, actually being three also gave you your first opportunity to drive the family mini van even if it was only in the garage! Then you drove at a later date, it was a tough day - glad you don't want a red car and prefer a truck! Your muscial talent is great, your voice, so lovely! Good Luck in the upcoming concert!

You were my inspiration to begin my crocheting once again - just in time for your 1st Christmas I was able to make for you my first baby blanket. Since then an original scarf, a poncho and I am now completing your blanket of your choice.

On our visit, you help remind me of the challenges you are faced with at school. While it is decades later, there are differences, like the songs on the top of the charts, politics, fashion trends. Though I may not have the answers for all of them today.... I will tell you to follow your heart and head - you have excellent ones. Remember we learn from all those who cross our paths, and I'll always be in your corner and available to you whenever you want.

So my dearest niece, my special godchild, Congratulations on your birthday 2008! May this coming year bring you lots of successes, fun, happiness, and that you continue to dream.

Love you............ Aunt Patty

The Return - a Mitzvah

Early, early Sunday morning I arose (for a minute) and then returned to bed - it was too cold! I had packed the night before so I only needed a few minutes to dress and get my bags downstairs. Phew - it was a cold morning.

The flight was uneventful except for a note that Shelby had sliped into my luggage the night before with strick instructions of when to open it. Two hours latter I was back in my place. I began the garage shelf a little bit, unpacked a little bit, did some mail, took a bit of a nap and then a quick round of the grocery and dinner with friends!

Monday a.m. my boxes of stuff arrived and I got to the business of unpacking the work I took with me and take care of the items that arrived while I was gone. I will probably have another long day of getting the bits and pieces completed and put away.

The rest of the week was great, more chaufferring, cooking, cleaning, listening, explaining, hugging, comforting, assuring, - the simple duties yet most important ones. Those are the ones that keep the very fabric of life together. So we did have the brownies - yummy with butterscotch chips, of course why not make choc chip cookies; and lest not forget baking the gluten free choc chip cookies. So everyone was able to have their non-candy sugar fix.

Shelby and I went to Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate store to use her gift card. She was especially excited when they answered her email that their products were gluten free. We bought some extra's so we could surprise mommy and daddy when they returned. We even treated ourselves to some special truffles to share.

Jess and I hung out a bit before taking her to go to the movies and enjoyed conversation with each other. While I was there, I completed lots more on her blanket. Just the four corners to go.

Taylor was out on a hike with OSEP - a bit cold to say the least. It is in preparation of her 30 mile hike in January. Big news, Taylor's orchestra will be playing at Carnegie Hall in April! She interviewed me for her Personal Finance class - it was funny, she asked questions and wrote up her paper, submitted them on-line, and the next day her teacher gave her great accolades and thought that maybe she could learn something from her Aunt. LOL!

Chris and I continue to play the monology game and the bank was still out of money - we called the game, he won with the most $$s :) We also had an opportunity to go to the game store and get a few more games for his DS.

Friday - everyone came home, we picked up, and packed ourselves into the mini van (my goodness this was a great car, super GPS, but so big ) and off to the airport to meet up with their parents. After a enormous hello, we went off to the Pasta House - chain type resturant that serves gluten free pasta.

My time was coming to an end - what an adventure it was! Saturday was not anything, spent most of the day with my sister-in-law and then off to the 6-7-8 Club social for the sixth, seventh, eighth graders that they organize at their church featuring pizza, candy and the movie Kung Fu Panda. Cute movie, though not what I call visiting, sad - oh well, I guess it doesn't matter - because I took this time soley to help them up.

I will say so myself - I did pretty darn good - another week on the ground and I would have felt better with their schedule and would have been able to get more done (for myself) as it is truly a logistics opportunity. I am truly thankful that I could give this time to my brother and sister-in-law so that they could be together, as a couple to strengthen their relationship, and celebrate their marriage of 20 years. A dear friend said to me on my return, you've done a mitzvah. This is the most precious gift that one can do for another. I am thankful :)

Wednesday - Hump Day

All is well in the calm before the storm. Today is the first of two half days for the kids. Shelby will be back by 11:45! Didn't she just leave. Actually today, she didn't wake me before she left - same with Taylor. While it was nice to sleep in for a few extra minutes, it's nice to see them off.

Now ----- there is a box of brownies sitting on the counter - I think some one is wanting a brownie fix! I guess it is a slight - "ya know Aunt Patty, brownies would be nice!" hint hint.

Miss Jess was the next out the door. Yesterday afternoon I attended as a spectator, her academic competition for her high school, LHS. These are held approx every two weeks - with students from each grade. Now for those of you that know the TV game show Jeopardy - that's kindergarden compared to the questions that are asked these kids! I did get some of the questions correct - and stumped completely on some, and not a clue on the tricky physics questions. A teacher reads the questions, I caught his eye a couple of times when he became quizzacle on how the question was worded. Anyway it was fun. Jess's team won the first competition against MHS, and lost against the second team from MHS. I must say these kids were quite impressive.

My niece, Miss Jess, is becoming quite a remarkable young woman. I was told to 'watch' her. Yet simple reminders are just about all I need to do. Double check on them for homework, they know what they need to do, though they all can get distracted. Last night was pick up dinner night, we did the left overs and assorted mini meals snacks and I made my colossal salad. She wanted the soup and some of the salad. Easily done. Before we 'closed' down the house for the evening, Aunt Patty doing the check the doors, lights, and anything else that could go 'beep, ding, or ring' Jess paid me the nicest compliment. "Gee Aunt Patty you are doing a real good job at the mom thing" then a simple hug and it was off to bed.

By a.m. she had an email on a STAR meeting which is about a kids discussion about poor and bad behaviors of some of their classmates. Apparantly, many of these kids have found alcohol and are drinking during the day! Okay - kids will try just about anything - remember I was in school during the sixties. I was surprised by her comment - 'their parents don't care'. Even if this comment is only half true, let me at those parents. I've my 'duh' stick and each of them would need to have a lesson about the "R" word. No offense here - parents are to be parents , not absent, not too busy, parents are to be the enforcers of the rules, and the biggest comfort blankie on earth. Parents are not suspose to be the kid's best friend and popular. If that does happen along the way, then I would say they were exceptional parents with exceptional children.

by the way----- being Hump Day - stop by Showmecables.com for this week's specials and the video of the week Little plug for baby brother's site as he hasn't written on his blog for more than a week.!


PS by the way ----- the kids said that I say stuff just like Dad.... LOL..... who came first the chicken or the egg!

Tuesday 1:16pm CST

So another two days have gone by. There is still an "Aunt Patty" and there were four kids off to school this a.m. - so far it's we are working like a well oiled machine, unless one forgets lunch, or misses the buss because it's not suspose to be there until 7:45 and it came at 7:42! Lots of activity of course when they get home, chill down time, Kumon work to complete, general homework, then of course computer stuff, like video's on UTube, they can look up just about anything in a few clicks, phone calls, friends, keeping up on the rsvps for Chris's party and even answering questions for the Saturday movie night at their local church.

by the end of the day.... phew.... it can be tiring. This a.m. was about 5:30 - lol for all of you reading as it only feels like 6:30 to me. Then it was "do you have your lunch" , "where is your backpack", " did you remember the book?", okay the socks don't fit into the shoes, put the cello in the van, oh--- pet the dogs, don't forget lunch for Chris, set the timer to pick him up at 9:05 and leave the house by 8:57 - Yes folks down to the last minute. I can get my 5000 steps in before 9:30 am!

Last night was a little more quiet, Molly, Jess's bf came by for a book, (my additional niece I've been told), there was homework, and Shelb and Chris were at PSR or CCD to the rest of us.

My nephew Chris is so funny, he gets back, strews his stuff around and wants to know if we can continue the monolopy game. So we make an easy deal, he picks up his stuff, brings me all his laundry (AP task), does his health (ugh) reading of which he read most of it out loud to me. Then after getting PJ's on, and after all his stuff was readied, then we sat for a few more minutes to play a few rounds of monopoly. While it is the Jr edition - actually can move more quickly and easier on the mind. It was getting just too funny. The bank never seemed to have change, so I had to keep making change out of my stash. We couldn't make the change from Chris's as I've got more money than Chris and the Bank combined LOL ---- The St. Louis Branch of the Bank of Foley (old joke for those SSWF readers). I'm not sure what will happen when then bank runs out of money? but let me tell you, Chris hasn't fallen far from the tree - he'll make up rules! JUST LIKE HIS DAD! I hope that he and I can play it for a few more nights. His Gramma LuLu told him that she would play for days on end. He's so funny to play with. He plays his piece and if I don't move fast enough, he'll play my piece! Mind you he'll explain everything to you.

Today is a new adventure ---- check back later

Sunday in St. Louis

ahh the quite of the morning.... mind you it's 9am and the three princesses are still asleep and my nephew, the little man of the home, is away at a sleep over. Even Lizzie and Luke (dogs next door) are quiet. It's the first morning that I haven't driven someone(s) somewhere(s) before 8am!

I expect within the hour Chris returns home with lots to tell, Shelby will arise to tell me of the party she attended last night - mosel tov, Taylor & Jess and I hung out and watched some TV which, I'm now so confused as she clicked between six different shows. Taylor was driving the clicker - must have learned from Pete!

So I've had two days with the kids alone (well sort of). Denise & Pete are speaking with them at each major turn of the day via phone. We've been to do volunteer work (Jess), Taylor's "o" group, get together with Jess's friends and one slept over, reminder of the homework assignments, picking up, chores from the board, music instrument practice, played video games, did some YouTubing, did cooking (not really as Denise prepared many of the meals in advance), did the grocery store, did the library, can't do the pictures I was hoping to do - somehow they didn't load which is sad:(, breakfast, lunch, even chinese last night with the girls.

It's interesting to watch them be kids - not something you can see in a days visit once or twice a year. When you add friends, it's gets really funny. Oh give me the drama!

ps - after delivery of said children in the a.m. - and to the end of the day - mind you an easier day - I did some 11,000 steps!

Pete's new pets

Now many of you have known Pete's unending love for animals. I remember his love for our pets as we grew up. Of course there was the two rabbits, the two ducks, a boat load of reptiles, hamsters, guinea pigs and not to be last - our beloved PusPus.

Then something happen to Pete - must have been college?? He didn't want to have any more pets. If memory serves be correctly - I think the floppy eared bunny was the last non-human resident at Pete's household.

Fast forward to today - Denise and the kids want a dog, yet Pete says no. His book on 187 reasons not to have a pet should be released in time for Christimas by YeLoF Publishing Co.

Yet today - we have new residents, Surprise Surprise - Meet the fruit flies - Jenny, Caila, Joe, Mark, Madison, Leia, Ryan, Bob, Alexis, Beth, Josh, Alan, Bert, Stu, Bartholomeu, Larry, Tad, Ursula and lets not forget Eunice!

Thanks to Shelby they all have a name!

The Eagle has landed......

Relocation was completed - finished picking up, laundry, computer related items, phew. Neighbor Tom came by to take me to the repair shop to drop off the car and then to drop me at the airport. Julie made me a great cup of coffee and Hannah and Moe gave we a wonderful bookmark they brought from Israel - about the Dead Sea Scrolls. The airline, AA, didn't charge me for the bag I checked, let me get through the check point except for my hair conditioner - that I had to leave behind as it was a bottle toooooooo large. I guess I could hold up a plane with my hair conditioner?? Both flights were uneventful and I did get a nap on both. Pete met me at the airport and gave me the ride back to the house.

It was great, the kids drew a message on the driveway for me, though it was too dark and then it rained before I could see it in the a.m. :( It was time for dinner, lovely, then we had to get down to the notes of the who, what, when, how etc..... and lots of etc, of the MO household. Before you know it, the clock striked midnight CST and wow I was tired.

Today - semi first day of my "super nanny" duties. First duty - get Pete & Denise off to the dang airport and out of the way! Now the kids and I can get down to some fun. Who isn't running when/where. Easy a.m. for me, then I had the chance to work, and the kids came home, dinner served, and off to a concert that Shelby and Taylor played in. I was the videographer - my first LOL!! I did run out of the film, ouch in the middle of Shelby's last piece, though with a little push, got the new cartridge in the camera just in time for Taylor's performance. Jess was off to do some babysitting and Chris had to do "one hour and four minutes" of cello practice and "aunt patty" had to sign off on his playing.

I must say - what a joy yet what a schedule to follow. Tomorrow A.M. - big morning as I must drive two kids around for the opening of special classes before school begins! It means an early early a.m.

Now with all the notes, lol I missed or forgot that the telephone answering machine beeps when it has a message, the refrigerator beeps if you leave the door open, the little button on the right side of the roof on the van is for the garage or you have to remember the code (like mine) and the door closer in the garage is hidden! LOL!! Not bad for the first day!

Tomorrow I'll end up with five kids in the house - Jess is having a friend, Sam, stay over so they can do 'hours' for Key Club on Saturday - another early morning! Sleeping in is definitely a luxury for the single life!!

Keep in touch -

p.s. the P&D already called in to check on the kids before the concert!

Down to Hours ...... St Louis and the Election

Well, so much as been going on = not much sleep.

The Woodsedge Condo - sold - so that meant a final move!

The Crown Ridge Condo - it now has furniture!

The Friends had their one day booksale - and they just about cleared $13K - Great Job!

Great night at the polls - over all we signed up 97 citizens for new library cards.

My state Rep Sandy Nafis - she swept our district and I had the opportunity to visit her at the Dem headquarters for a few minutes to offer my congratulations. Glad she's going to be on the job again!

I just heard part of Pres Elect Obama acceptance speach - sad day for US - As a country we will need to stand viligent - call your Congress person ! Make your voice heard in DC! While the election is finished (thank goodness) the work has just begun. enough for now

Then the last two days - get my home in order, mail, email, set-up Paulette for work to accomplish, get additional communications equipment, run around - banking, post office to mail the stuff to Pete's ; laundry, clean out car as it will be going in for repairs while I'm away; get the carpenter Bob the materials he'll need to do the Garage shelving units; write a few thoughts in this blog; just a usual day at my place!

So in about 10 hrs I'll be boarding a plane and end up in St. Louis, Continue to watch the blog as it will be the assault of Aunt Potty in St. Louis LOL!

Sweet dreams to all!