Time to stop...

I sit in front of my computer wondering how on earth I'm going to get everything done by Christmas morning. Exhaustion has set in. Happy and Jolly are more like Numb and Blah. "White Christmas" is playing over and over in hopes to stop the rain and ice. It's dull and grey outside and the white powder would make it feel so much more like Christmas.

I try to shake the dulldrums but thoughts of 2008 race in my mind, the date on the calendar is 24 Dec... I think of Granny P... she would be 88 today! Tears trickle and I silently sing happy b-day... and then the thought of cherry cordials appears... she loved thoughs... I smile and chuckle!

I open an email from a dear friend... always one to shed light and help me realize the good... Happy and Jolly reappear and I am thankful... for family, friends, coworkers, my job, the roof over my head, the food in my pantry and the clothes on my body...

It's time to stop the hustle and bustle, take a deep breathe and remember what Christmas is all about... Thank you Greg!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all~ Le

From Greg:

Good Morning,
It is that time of year again....to reflect back and look at everything we have accomplished this year, and look forward to 2009. As I reflect back, I think about what I did or could have done to be a positive influence on someone.....Alot of times, I look to my family....and think, could I have been a better Dad, a better wife, taken more time with the kids....family is so important to me....and I am sure to all of you as well....the times you spend with family is priceless....it doesn't cost anything (it shouldn't).......how often do we take "time" to talk with siblings, parents, grandparents....take a day to go for a walk with them...and truly ask them about their lives, and what they are doing and if there is anything we can do for them....and just "listen"....most of us probably talk alot, but just listen.....
The last couple years, I have mentioned that my son has gone on a mission trip from our church....he did it again this year without me......which was sad, and tough on me....it was somewhat preparing me for his leaving for college next September I guess....anyway, he went to Gutemala....and distributed medicine to families, took blood pressure, and actually got to do some stitching on a patient who had a surgery....he worked on the medical team...as he wants to go to medical school...what a great experience....but the best part was....it gave him another chance to see how other people live, and what they don't have....and truly how much he has....even better, was that when he came home, he told us he doesn't need much for Christmas....and as a family we donated stuff to a charity......
I guess when we all think of the holidays......remember your familes.....love them, spend time with them, encourage them, and give them what they need......life is to short to not take the time....we take so much for granted...me included, and yet we have soooo much....we are blessed as people and a nation....and others have so little......if we all dedicated to giving to one person in need during the holidays, we could make a difference....to put a smile on someone else's face......so many people are homeless, and will not have anything for Christmas.....I truly am Thankful for what I have.....and for all of you, and the relationships we have built....its because of the partnership we have, that we have success.....
Thank you all for being the people you are.....and in 2009, look to be even better....look to make a difference in one persons life......give to someone who has hardly anything, and is truly in need.....be with family.....hug your kids and spouses every night...and tell them how much you love them.....life is to short not to.....work is busy, but family is forever......make sure you tell them that every day......

May God bless you this holiday season with happiness, joy, peace and good health.......

Waking up Happy!

Finally! The BIG GIRL BEDROOM is complete, well, once we get her rug cleaned tonight it will be complete. And, she transitioned from our bed to hers quite well... sleeping all night on the very first night! WHOO HOOO!

Let's back up a little in this story. We have been trying to transition the "nursery" to a "big girl" room for about a year and a half now. This is our second child and unfortunately we didn't learn from our first born when it came to the whole "conversion" bed craze. You see when we found out we were pregnant for the first time, we got sucked into the "One Stop Shop" (a.k.a. Baby's R Us). They convinced us to buy the 3-in-1 conversion bed: Crib, toddler bed, full bed. Well... Owen didn't last a week in the toddler bed before he either rolled out (yes, even with a rail) or woke up and walked into our room. So, thankfully, we had the conversion rails to make it a full bed and that was that. We swore we wouldn't do it again... WRONG. Although we weren't at the One Stop Shop, two and a half years later we are shopping for Olivia's crib and WHAM BAM... sucked in to the 3-in-1 bed again. This time we tried to keep her in the crib even though she was climbing out at one and a half years old. After a few "hard" falls, though, we changed it to the toddler bed. Just like her older brother, she didn't last a week before she was walking into our room at two o'clock in the morning. Unfortunately (and once again, this is something we should have known going into this), there was no room for the full bed in her quaint little room. Well, that is if you want a dresser to store her clothes. So, the toddler bed for the last year and a half has been used as storage for her babies, blankets, laundry, etc. And the conversion rails for the full bed are enabling spiders to create there beautiful webs somewhere in the attack. So, Olivia either sleeps in Owen's bed (forcing Owen into our bed) or she sleeps in bed with us.

Finally, after having our backs, heads, faces kicked a million times we decided we'd better do something (umm, hello?!). We found the most beautiful bed online. And why wouldn't the rest of the toddler parent's out there think it was just as beautiful? Maybe we should have thought about that a trillion weeks ago. The dresser was in and ready to be shipped, but the bed... the most important piece... was on backorder, and backorder, and backorder again... and so on. The kicking of the backs, heads, faces... being pushed to the outer most parts of the bed... waking up grouchy with kinks and sore backs... continued on for another gazillion weeks.

We sang the praises yesterday, though: ALLELUIA, ALLELUIA, ALLELUIA, ALLELUIA, ALLELUIA! The furniture was delivered! The bedding was purchased and the Princess is as happy as can be!

More importantly... the evil king and queen woke up and were suprisingly happy!;)

Just like riding a bike...

Welcome back, me! I'm a little nervous about posting again. It's been a month or more since my last post. I've been quite busy. So, with my helmet and training wheels on, I'm back at it again. I really don't know where to begin. So I'll start with the week of September 8-12: I was off to the west coast for a work conference. The conference was in Anaheim, and I was able to venture out each evening to Laguna, Hollywood Blvd, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Sunset Blvd and Malibu. It was my first trip to that part of California and it was pretty much what I expected... huge homes on the hills, lots of fancy cars, fine dining and beautiful weather. I did splurge and buy a purse on Rodeo Dr. for the mere pleasure of one day saying to my grandchildren as we sit and watch an "old" movie called Pretty Woman that I have been on that there Rodeo Drive.... and this is the purse (pulling it out of a dusty old box) I bought. All in all, it was a great and quick trip. We packed a lot of fun into a week. Next visit to CA will be to visit family in SanFran area and do some wine adventures...

While I was gone, I missed Olivia's first dance class but came to find out parents aren't aloud to watch. So, thankfully, I really didn't miss anything. She continues to have dance every Tuesday and is loving it. She wants to wear tights and bodysuits every day. You may remember a time this was "cool and in style" attire. I may even have a few of those snap crotch body suits tucked away somewhere for when the 90's attire comes back full circle! Anyway, she practices her twirls and marching all over now... even down the aisles of the grocery store. She's quite good! She enjoys the hour with her cousin Ellie... I'd love to be a fly on the wall.

Owen continues to love Kindergarden. We enjoy getting to hear all about his new friends, what fun things he learns and all the fun he has at recess! Is it abnormal that a kindergardener's favorite thing about school at this age is the two recesses? He does great at homework and always has good stories to tell. We continue to get good reports from the teachers, despite the one call we got from the Principal's office. YEP... that's right. I got back to work from lunch one day to a note stating, "call the school." When I called, the Principal asked me to hold on for a minute as she was going to put me on speaker phone with Owen. Seems he and his best buddy had an altercation in the bathroom... hmmmm! Needless to say, they learned a lesson to keep their hands to themselves and NO PUSHING AND SHOVING. It had to do with wanting to get back to the classroom first... so belts were taken off and pushing was involved. I'm pretty sure from that point on, they are kept apart when not in the classroom.

Owen's flag football started while I was in CA, so we are knee deep in football fever at our house. Monday games (high school), practice Tues-Thur, Friday games (high school), Saturday games (flag football) and then college all afternoon as we sit and take a deep breathe from the week. We (well, me between catching up on laundry and cleaning) also wind down on Sundays as we continue to fullfill our football needs with NFL.... ALL DAY. I sometimes sneak in a movie when the rest of the clan dozes off... but not usually!

Olivia turned 3 on October 9th. We had a small birthday party with the grandparents. She was bummed her cousins were all out of town, but we had a ball anyway. Her cake was Ariel from The Little Mermaid. This is her favorite Disney Princess right now, but Sleeping Beauty is a very close second. She got all kinds of fun stuff for a 3 year old... including a suitcase full of make-up, body glitter and fancy hair clips. I think my Aunt forgot she was only three... we have glitter all over the house... and my toenails this week are all different colors... blue/yellow and pink/yellow. My fingernails were blue over the weekend, but I didn't think it looked to professional so I convinced her to keep it on my toes.

Fall has crept in and we're loving it. Troy continues to keep busy getting yards ready for winter. We have started a few new projects outside at our house with some of the left over plants. It's great being in the landscaping business! As we wind down this fall, we'll keep our fingers crossed for a winter packed full of snow!

The backyard and woods are so colorful and we are having fun back at the camp fire. This past Sunday was our first day for roasting hotdogs and smores. Oh so yummy!!!! We are getting the woods all cleaned up and the paths cleared for the rest of fall and winter. Owen is our wonderful trail leader . It's spooky at night but he leads us through with his flash light... and only once did it go out! But we followed the voices from those hanging around the fire and found our way back.

This weekend is Halloween in Van Wert... trick -or-treat from 4:00 to 6:00 on Saturday. This year, Olivia is Aurora, Owen is Prince Philip and I am dressing up as Maleficent. No... Troy is not following the Sleeping Beauty theme. He is going to be a Treece Landscaper.

I'll get photos up soon. I've been taking sooooooo many. Actually, too many! I can't keep up with putting them on the computer and posting them. Oh well... winter is coming and I'll need things to do. I think...

Hope everyone out here in the blog-o-spere is doing well. All though I haven't been posting, I'm still reading all my favorites. And I admire all of you who post regularly. It's sooooo nice to read about "real" life, keeping away from all the political garbage.

Love to all ~ Le

Cosmetologist in training...

We found out what Olivia wants to be when she grows up...


Saurday morning was a delight. Olivia decided she was big enough to dry her own hair. We were getting ready to go to Daddy's football game, so I let her at it and went about dressing. We left the house, both dolled up and ready to root on the Cougars. See our stylist in action :)

Sunday... not so delightful. We got up early and were sitting at the kitchen table. Troy was doing paperwork, Owen was still half asleep watching cartoons and Olivia wanted to do her type of "paperwork." So, I got the crayons, construction paper and scissors out! Yep... SCISSORS! I helped her cut along the edges and "fringe" the sheet of paper. After a while, we had made quite a mess so I started picking up and then decided to make pancakes and bacon. Unfortunately, when I got up, there was still one sheet of paper, a red crayon and the scissors on the table. And, I won't mention Troy was sitting right beside her. I heard her repeat, "Daddy... Daddy... Daddy..." several times for attention. Then, it was "MOMMY"... and when I looked up all while pouring pancake batter in the hot frying pan, she was holding the scissors in her hand. I think I said something (really stupid) like, "Yes, honey... scissors." Before, I knew it... Troy was screaming and showing me 8 inches of hair that was on the floor! Pancake batter flying and a startled 2 year old screaming, I wisked her away to the bathroom to see the damage. Despite her Dad scarring the bejesus out of here, I got her calmed down and we looked in the mirror... See for yourself... she doesn't look too destraught, huh?

It really wasn't that bad. It's just the front part you can see in this picture. Maybe a little on the sides... like a layered effect. Thankfully, all the glitz and glitter now a days, there are some really great barrettes to help hold these bangs back while they grow out. It could have been A LOT WORSE... like..."She could have cut her finger off!" As Troy is freaking out. "Hair will grow back, honey!" He's still looking at me like I'm going to be able to fix it.

On a different note... notice the shirt she is wearing? Still loves horses!

Pizza with the Principal...

We are so proud of Owen. When going through is folder last night, we found two great big surprises: 1.) A "Just a Note" postcard from his teacher: "This is just a note to let you know many teachers have commented on what nice manners Owen has...Mrs. Tate" 2.) A "Pink Slip" from the Principal: "Pizza with the Principal: Owen Treece, for showing acts of Kindness and Good Manners." This one means because of his good behavior he gets a pizza party with his Principal.

Despite his orneriness and sometimes "macho" image he portrays at home, it was a true honor and blessing to have these notes from the school! We are so proud of our big boy :)

Love your Mom & Dad

2009 John Deere Calendar -Swimsuit Edition!

Guess who won the spot as July's John Deere Calendar Girl....





Okay... not really, but I couldn't resist the title for this professional model pose!

Little Miss Alice

All this football talk going on in the house, I had to take Olivia to the side and have some "girl" time. What better way to be "girly" than with some of Great Granny P's cherished treasures! We put on an old formal from when Granny was "Past Matron" of the Eastern Stars. We added pearls and a purse. Then, we topped it off with a hat and purple bifocals. Oh... and purple shoes, but unfortunately, the dress is pretty long. With all the material I had to work with, I might say, I tacked it up pretty well! We had so much fun! And I loved how Granny's scent is still so fragrant...

Olivia went to the "gosuree" store to buy gum, starbursts and tootsie rolls. She walked and walked and walked... clanking the purples heals all the way down the driveway and back. She'd get to the garage and hand me our pretend groceries, then say she forgot something and back at it she went...

After our "girly" time, we went into the house to take a break. She curled up in the chair with Troy and took a two hour nap... still dressed to the nines in Great Granny's treasures!

What a beautiful way to spend a Sunday afternoon!

Are you ready for some FOOTBALL?

Meet Coach Treece and Owen the water boy. It is the start of football season and our house is mass ciaos. But, then again, football really isn't the cause for being unorganized. Anyway, this season brings all sorts of news and firsts. Troy was asked to be Defense/Offense lines coach for Van Wert Freshman. However, they ended up doing away with the freshman schedule this year, so Troy is now the coach for Junior Varsity. He also gets the privilege of being on the field as the Varsity games, as well. The kids love watching him coach!

Owen was asked to take on a HUGE responsibility... WATER BOY for the Junior Varsity Team. He had his first game last Saturday at Bryan. He got to ride the bus with the team. A huge deal! I was a little worried that at age 6 he would not realize the importance of complete SILENCE on the way to the game. I can remember these days when I was a cheerleader. It was very important and sometimes very hard to not say one "bleep". The ride home was a different story (well, that is if we won!). Anyway... luckily, Owen took a nap on the way there. What better way to keep a 6 year old quiet!

Olivia and I enjoy being cheerleaders... rooting the team, the coaches and the water boy on to VICTORY!

C-O-U-G-A-R-S, Cougars, Cougars, Are The Best!

Good luck Van Wert Football... we're rooting for you :)

Flip of a Switch...

Okay... so I'm blessed with a "devil child". Yep, that's right... a little crazy 2.5 year old princess who seems to have turned evil queen. Equipped with a full head of hissing snakes, a nose wort and screeching, high-pitched yelp (one the neighbors 2 miles away can hear as it stops all life existing outside of our walls). Or should I say blood curdling scream?

This morning, Olivia definitely woke up on the "wrong" side of the bed. The left side to be exact. She came staggering into the bathroom, sporting her saggy pull-up and a wild mess of a mane. She rubbed her eyes and gave me the sweet and innocent morning grin that I love so dearly. She took her "poo-up" off and put it in the trash like a good little girl. We headed to her room to get the wipes and freshen up for the day. When I told her to pick out her panties, she immediately turned devil child... I mean, instantly... like the flip of a switch. I was truly amazed at this blood curdling scream coming out of this precious little girl.

The noise that bellowed out of this child was so loud and muddled, I could not understand WHAT she was screaming about. She was pointing to the top drawer where we keep her "poo-ups" and jumping up and down. I calmly asked her... "you want a pull-up?" Her red-faced reply... "YES!"

"Oh, but honey, you are a big girl and you pee in the potty. You only wear pull-ups at night."

Woo! NOT the thing to say...

So, this literally went on for 35 minutes while trying to get out the door and make sure big brother gets to Kindergarten on time. THE GIRL HAS BEEN PEEING IN THE POTTY FOR A GOOD 12 MONTHS. I was beside myself and it was taking every bit of energy I had not to lock her in a closet and come back later!!!! (okay, you know I really wouldn't do a thing like that, right?).

Not realizing Troy hadn't left for work and was outside watering plants, I was even more taken back when he walked inside and looked at me like I'm some incapable mother. The nerve of him, in such a dumbfounded way, to ask what could possibly be making such a precious little girl act like such a ferocious BEAST. He was amazed and couldn't believe how HIS "little pumpkin" was acting. HHHHHHHAAAAAAA...UUUUUUUUUURRRRRRRRGGGGGGGG! Now you see what I go through, was my reaction and an added smirk as I walked past and let him handle the situation.

I gave him a clue, whispering, "Tell her she can put the poo-up on her baby."

Needless to say, it worked. Baby got to wear the pull-up and the devil came out wearing a pretty pink dress and her pretty dress up shoes...hair tamed down and all. We got Owen to school in time, the devil in her princess costume went to the sitter and I got to work, sipped my coffee and took a very DEEP, DEEP, DEEP breath!

1st Day of Kindergarten...

Tears of joy trickled down my cheek as I slowly walked back to my car. For, this is the day I dropped Owen off at Kindergarten for his first day! I held these tears back as much as possible. I dare not embarrass our son in front of his new classmates! He was so PROUD and INDEPENDENT! I saw a side of him I always knew was there, but shielded from my true vision. I didn't want him to see my tears for it's not sadness I'm feeling... but the fear of letting go and the fact that time is not going to stand still. I need to feel proud of what Troy and I have done so far and cherish each and every day.
He's ready for this new stage in his life... these pictures show it!



I'm all set for my first day at St. Mary's... you won't have to worry about me...



So, how do I look?



I look small in this picture. It will be fun to see how I grow over the years.

My best friend Evan... the dangerous duo!

Fourth of July on August 14th...

As I stare at this blank sheet of paper
I’m screaming for inspiration…
Usually, this comes pretty easy
but with a heavy heart and blurred eyes
my vision and inspiration is somewhat lacking…

I try to pull all my memories together but they seem to blur
not a grey dulled blur… but a blur of bright pinks, turquoise and purples…
This splash of color in my mind is my vision of you …
always dressed to the nines… high heels, suits, hats… the perfect accessories to match and all in bright colorful hues.

Another vision flashes in my mind…
a turquoise box Santa would always leave in your stocking.
When I think of this box, I get an instant wave of your “scent” for it’s not the box so much in my memory, but the perfume it held and how it flowered your house and your skin with a beautiful sweet essence…

I hear songs… those from movies such as Guys and Dolls, Gigi, Easter Parade…
Oh how we loved watching Fred Estaire dance with all his ladies… and how we wished we had their legs… and the grace and beauty of Audrey Hepburn. All the romance, music and dancing would just capture our hearts and whisk us away.

And how could I forget the Charleston… you and me in the kitchen… what a hoot!

I can’t keep up now… the memories are racing through… flashing, sparkling, like
Fourth of July fireworks in my mind: A celebration of you!!!!!!

Peanut Butter on potato chips
15-2, 15-4, 15-6 and a pair for 8
Purple,
Haagendas ice cream
the scent of gin and cashews on your breathe
cocktail napkins and coaster
Purple again
Shoes, shoes and more shoes
Bloomingdales and "Needless Markups"

As the fireworks come to an end, I smile… for my once blank white paper and blurred vision is now a colorful work of art and a celebration of your life and fond memories I get to take with my all the days of my life..

We will meet again… until then, I ask you to be my angel and guide me the rest of my journey.

Granny P ~ My Angel

Granny P ~ My Angel, originally uploaded by L Studio.

December 24, 1920 - August 12, 2008

We will meet again... until then, guide me and walk with me through the rest of my journey!

Love,
Me

Last Dance...

Wednesday afternoon was a beautiful day at Granny's. I walked in the door and the room seemed brighter as the sun shined in through the front window. My uncle Tom had the bed tilted so Granny was sitting up. And to my suprise, she was wide awake... and had been all morning. She had eaten her applesauce, some pudding and drank some water. To our amazement she was a "new" person with hope and energy. I stood at the end of her bed with my hands on my hips and was talking to Denise (a caregiver) and my Uncle. When suddenly, I caught movement from Granny out of the corner of my eye. She was "mimiking" me by placing her arms on her hips. I smiled and asked her if she wanted to dance. She moved a wee bit back and forth and started singing! Uncle Tom, Denise and I were amazed once again at her jubilant character. I walked over to her and embraced in the most memorable and loving hug as she pecked at my cheek giving me numerous sweet kisses...

This will be my last visit with Granny. I'm at peace with her passing and I have shared my feelings with her. I will leave my Dad, Aunt and Uncles to be at her bedside from here on out. At first I was scared and unsure to get involved, frightened that my last visions of Granny will be of her in her weakest moments... and unsure she wanted me to be there. My heart, however, couldn't stay away. I needed that time with her. I am grateful, very thankful and have the most wonderful vision of her to carry with me forever.

I know she feels the same... she thanked me with her sweet kisses, warm hug... and our last dance!

Jane, I'm coming...

Last Thursday, Hopsice brought in the hospital bed, oxygen, morphine, etc. for my Granny. She has come to the end of her battle with cancer. She's been quite a fighter in her 87th year. She made it through the first bought of cancer with flying colors. Making sure she was dressed to the nines for each treatment... Sunday bests and high heels... none the less. I can remember the ladies coming out to get her and commenting on how beautiful she always looked. After treatment, we'd go to lunch and then head back home. She made it through... losing her hair, feeling sick and weak. She bounced back so well, but should I be surprised? She's always been a fighter, always been independent and is a Matriarch in all her glory!

Her and grandpa raised five wonderful children...
She lost grandpa at a young age...
Continued on in life, knowing only one "True Love"...
Watched her grandchildren be born and grow into wonderful adults...
And was fortunate enough to watch 13 great-grandchildren be born and start to blossom...

She was "famous" in my eyes... one I want to be like when I grow old...

It wasn't only a few years ago, I was sitting by her in church and she started to cry during one of the hymns. I reached over and held her hand... she squeezed back. Later I asked her if she was alright... she replied, "I've lost my best friend... and she was the last to go... " After Granny lost her best friend, Jane, she was "alone". Alone in her eyes, even though we were all here and the great grandkids were here.... her generation was gone. And looking back, that moment in church was the moment she realized it... a moment she began to "weaken."

She didn't seem to bounce back after holidays... or "big" events like she had before. She seemed a little depressed even with the visits from kids, grandkids and great-grandkids. They would brighten her day at the time. But as the visits came to an end, the sun seemed to go down with the door closing behind them.

She still has the strength inside her, she can still fight... but what is keeping her going? She's lived 87 wonderful years! She's been the fighter, the one holding us all together... but, we'll be okay, Granny! You will live within us for years to come... you have left us all the most wonderful gifts... your strength, your love, your desire to be...

This morning, I think Granny came to terms with death as she yelled out...

"Jane, I'm coming..."

A definite GNO...

Okay ladies... it's time to get friends, moms, sisters, daughters, aunts, etc. together for a girls night out. Mama Mia! The Movie is a must see summer flick. My sister and I went last night and laughed hysterically, danced in our seats, sang along with the strangers beside us and cried often throughout the entire movie. It was uplifting, funny, and made us want to get off our seats and start dancing. If you haven't seen it yet... get a group of your favorite ladies together... go out and grab a drink or two and then head to the theater. You won't want to miss this!

I love the early mornings...

This week I've seen the sunrise... and I'm loving it. Owen (my 6 year old) is attending a basketball camp at the YMCA. Our normal morning routine is usually rushing around all morning and getting out our door at the last possible minute and I'm usually getting the mail for work at 8:35am. But, not this week... it's been a pleasantly early past few mornings. Up by 6:00am, so I can get myself ready before tackling the two morning gremlins who absolutely LOVE sleeping in in the mornings (thanks to their love of staying up late.... grrrrr). Owen staggers into the bathroom asking to take a shower to wake him up and I spend the entire time I'm getting ready taking "pit stops" in Olivia's (my 2 year old) room trying to get her to budge... luckily, with her, we have still been out the door by 7:05am... Olivia is quite the grump in the mornings. I need a video camera to record her glares and grunts because although I completely understand her frustration due to my own self hating when my sister would come in the room saying, "Leeeeeleeeeee" in a high pitched and vary annoying (and might I say rude ) voice to wake me up in the mornings, I think it's absolutely hilarious how her "need" to stay up late is my fault in the mornings.... let's remember... she is only two... this will go on and on and on... I might as well laugh and get used to it, right?!

Anyway... I've been sitting here at my desk now... enjoying the blogging world and my awesomely fresh coffee from my awesomely new coffee machine... I forgot how great the early mornings are!

Happy Tuesday ~

My BFF

My BFF , originally uploaded by L Studio.

Good morning BFF! I just wanted to give you a "shout-out"... you are truley the most remarkable women. You have such a genuine spirit about yourself and can always find the perfect words to say or advice to give. We've said it over and over again, how the good Lord brought us together in college for a reason... to complete each other. We've both grown into great women, striving to be the best and do the best. We are great wives, mother/step mother, sisters, friends, employees, aunts, etc. We excel everyday at what we do....

Have a great day!

Deer love and mine ~ Le

My Husband Rocks Friday!

Well, let's see... what can I brag about this week? Troy is such a wonderful friend, husband, father... he is dedicated and puts his whole heart into everything he does...be it work, family, friends, etc. His love of life in general is so over the top. He takes the best care of everything around him... For family, he works hard to provide the very best, he is patient (god love him!) and kind and his love is unconditional; For work, he is a perfectionist and strives for the customers to always be satisfied; For friends, he is true and dear... there is nothing fake or phoney about him; All in all, my husband rocks because he is real and Genuine!

How does your husband rock? Go on over and visit Katy to share your story!!!!!

Prayer Requests...

Our dear friend's boy (13 years old) was involved in a horrible tractor accident this past Sunday. He was attempting to jump onto a moving tractor when he slipped and fell. The tractor ran over him before it could be stopped. He is in critical condition and we are needing your prayers... please take some time to pray for Tyler and his family along with the driver of the tractor and his family.

Thank you so very much,
Leah

For the Love of Coffee...

Well... afters long hours of internet searching and truly trying to decide how much I can get away with spending... I found my new love. I couldn't believe how difficult this was! Who would have thought so much research could go into finding a coffee maker? For the love of coffee! There is so much information out there. Well, low and behold... after finding 25 coffee makers I liked, I slowing eliminated 24 and made my final decision... (is this a coffee maker edition of The Bachelor/The Bachelorette?) I'm madly in love with him! I have the freshest coffee every morning and my day starts out soooooo much brighter! Here he is... The Cuisinart Grind & Brew Thermal 12-Cup Automatic Coffeemaker

Isnt' he handsome... and so strong and sturdy?! I must go enjoy my coffee... until next post ~ all you need is a lil' bit-o luv!

Happy Birthday to Me!

Happy Birthday to me

Happy Birthday to me

Happy Birthday, OH MY, THIRTY THREE

Happy Birthday to me!

Well... I woke up this morning to turning another year older. And, I'm not quite sure how I feel about it... I feel older so I guess since I'm younger than I feel, then I'm excited! Today has been a beautiful day and I'm picking up the kids after work and we are headed to my mother-in-law's pool for an evening swim and cookout.

Troy has an important job to get done by the 4th, so he left the house at 4:30am and will return (he hopes) by 8:00pm... he'll be so exhausted, so we are going to tire ourselves out so we can all curl up and crash together... We promised the kids we would watch a movie in our bed and have a slumber party for my birthday... they woke up this morning and it was the 2nd thing out of their mouths (the first was their sweet, droggy, morning voice wishing me a happy birthday!)

Anyway, Troy called me earlier today to wish me Happy Birthday and to tell me Owen's idea was to get me a new coffee maker for my birthday. But knowing nothing about coffee or coffee makers, he thought it was best if I picked it out myself (smart husband, huh?!) I've kind of turned into a coffee snob... we aren't in a town that can host a Starbucks, but we have a small town version called Perks. I just can't drink regular coffee anymore... it's got to be espresso (lattes) or there extremely bold and strong Perks House. Sorry Maxwell house, it's no longer "good to the last drop" in my cup!

Why a coffee maker as the number one gift from a 6 and 3 year old? Well, we have had several thunderstorms and tornados this past month. And, wouldn't you know... I lose my coffee maker to one of them. My 6 year old loves making me coffee on Saturdays, so I think this is one of those "mutual" gifts! He and Olivia will enjoy it just as much for the mere hope I won't be "cranky" anymore on Saturday mornings... they are so smart!

Well... off to pick the kids up and then do some web searching for a new coffee maker... what do you think about this one:

Gaggia Titanium Espresso Maker? You've gotta love William Sonoma!

Latte Love ~ Leah

One Wonderful Weekend...

June 21-22 was one wonderful weekend here at the house. Despite the circumstances of the visit, we got to spend some time with our families from the West Coast. The time was spent swimming in the pond, playing on the giant raft, climbing all over the playset, eating like kings and queens and enjoying the long overdue visit. Many of our kids hadn't met cousin Brian and cousin Sarah and her little boy Mason. And Mason hadn't met any of us. We absolutely adore him and would have never guessed it was his first trip to Ohio. Even though the visits are too few and far between, everyone played so well together... I guess that's all part of being family!

Though the house seemed full, this was still only a small protion of Grandpa & Granny "P's" branch of the Purmort Family Tree. We missed those who weren't here this weekend. But we know soon enough, we'll all gather again... celebrating the wonderful years of Granny P. Until then... the shutter of my camera lens opens and closes and I am happy with what I see... instead of our kids playing this weekend, I am embelished with the memories of my childhood.... the carefree and joyous days when I and my cousins, brother and sister swim at the pool, run around the farm yard, enjoy the family hog roast, take a hay ride to an unknown place and hear yet another spooky and haunted story by the Uncle's... it just seems like yesterday... and I can close my eyes... smile... and allow a few tears to slowing escape from the corners of my eyes...

Until next post.... remember, all you need is a lil' bit-o luv!

One more post today...

Wow, not posting all week and then I just can't stop today... this will be the last until tomorrow (hopefully, if I stick to choosing not to float this weekend, I will be able and free to blog!!!) So, anyway... as I'm typing, I look at my left hand and notice I forgot to wear my wedding ring today. I'm sitting at work (my day job) and everything just seems blah... I'm blah... the office seems blah... then I look down and my hand looks blah... I do however, like the fact I have a tan line from wearing my ring. It must mean I'm getting out in the sun and not just cleaning, doing laundry... etc. So, anyway back to my ring... it made me think about a wonderful post my BFF Shannon wrote about Security . The day I read this I instantly thought of my "security blanket" being my wedding ring. Please check out her post! Here is a tidbit: Shannon: "What is your security/habit/freaky weird personal possession?" My Comment: "My wedding band... no matter how happy, sad, blah, freightened, lost, quirky, goofy, bitchy, etc. etc. etc. I feel, I can look down at my wedding band and know that my husband loves me unconditionally through the thick and the thin. He is my comfort, my shelter, my security from day to day life. Without him I am incomplete!"

See... I'm having a "blah" day and I don't have my security blanket to comfort me!

Now go on over and post your comment on Shannon's blog about your security blanket...

Until tomorrow~ Leah

To Float or not to Float... this is the question!

I just got done with a wonderful lunch time read over at Mable's House. I always enjoy her posts. Today was an especially nice post on floating along in life. Please check out her link and then you decide to float or not float. I'm going to try my best to NOT FLOAT this weekend... unless of course I'm floating in the pond with Owen and Olivia... now, go check out Mable's House...

I couldn't resist throwing in a photo for this post... obviously, Olivia has chose to float :)

My Husband Rocks Friday... literally!

My husband and I have a landscaping business. I handle all the administrative items like billing, receivables, payroll and taxes. My husband is the hardcore laborer and designer... He "ROCKS" at it... literally! Our specialty is rock. We get all varieties and sizes shipped weekly from all over the country. We are unique and promise to provide a rewarding and low maintenance landscape for your enjoyment. Here a just a few pictures of how My Husband Rocks...




The above is our pond in the evening (and fall... haven't downloaded a recent summer shot, yet!). Notice how Troy placed a "sitting" rock on the beach (there is another one closer to the water on the other end of the beach) With the umbrellas we add in the summer, these make for great seats while watching the kids play. And seats you don't have to store in the winter! There are also large slabs of rock used as "steps" down to the paddle boat... and then he uses riverrock along the other three sides of the pond...

This is our friends house we have been working on... Lucy is our Supervisor! Troy likes to take areas off the side of your house and create a mound as an accent area. Here it placed large pieces of outcropping rock as the border.



A favorite from last summer. Troy took an ordinary hill to the side of a pond and created this waterfall. There are so many varieties of rock, outcropping and boulders here... it really does ROCK (pun intended)!

Here is our back yard... riverrock is used in place of mulch (a must in the country or any "windy" city!) as ground cover in our landscaped areas... he also used a border of boulders around the tree and large outcropping pieces as a step/landing for each hammock.

So, here is this Friday's issue of My Husband Rocks Friday. I took it "literally"... Have a great weekend ~ Le

Beauty on an otherwise stormy day...

Beauty on an otherwise stormy day..., originally uploaded by L~Treece.

I haven't been able to post this week due to my stubborn mind not being able to decide what I should name my post... see I had the most amazing weekend with family... I have so many thoughts racing around in my head on what direction to take my post... not to mention the 100's of photos I snapped of cousins playing around the yard... climbing, swimming, sand surfing... etc. So, as I sit on yet another stormy afternoon, wondering about my future post, I am reminded of our wonderful weekend everytime I look at this beautiful "Thank You" bouquet from my West Coast Family! Stay tuned for a better, detailed blog of my weekend visit with family... until then, enjoy my view!
~Le

My Husband Rocks Friday

Thanks to Katy Linn at The Great Adventure , she has created "My Husband Rocks" Fridays. We are to post anything, be it quirky, loving, romantic, silly, etc. about why our husbands rock. She got the idea when she found a company From*me Tees! who's mission is "to enhance marriage relationships, communicate a positive image of marriage and encourage/support the sanctity of the marriage covenant between a man and a woman in a fun and stylish way. (for more, read Mission Refleciton) Please, check out these links I provided to learn more about these wonderful people. But for now... here is my "tid-bit" on why my husband rocks:

When I received my first bouquet of flowers, a romantic jester to tell me he was "looking forward to our dinner"... why wouldn't I fall head over heals?! And to be honest, it wasn't the fact he remembered my favorite flower was the yellow rose, it was the fact he went out and bought an actual card from the card store. He then headed down to the flower shop and picked out the twelve yellow roses and made sure the standard "business" card afixed the plastic "fork" in the pot was not part of the bouquet. They delivered the beautiful bouquet of yellow roses along with the card he wrote in and signed himself. Now... why is this so important... well, to me, it shows he is very much one to be "involved" in all facets of life. He takes the extra steps and goes the extra mile... perfection and detail is important to him (wow... he married me... I should feel honored!)... and it's remained this way through the first five years of our marriage. I don't tell him enough about these "little" things that mean the most!

This is just one way in which "My Husband Rocks".... please take some time to join the group and tell us all how your husband rocks. I love reading everyone's stories!

Have a great weekend everyone!

Brother & Sister ~ Love Thursday

Brother & Sister ~ Love Thursday, originally uploaded by L~Treece.

I think all the fighting and bickering between my son and daughter is a facade... something they know gets under my skin and gets them the attention they want when I'm attempting to do chores around the house. If I could keep the irritated, witchy, where did she get that broom stick side of me locked up when I'm breaking up a wrestling match or taking toys away they won't share, I think there would be more love moments. I really think they enjoy the "Mom goes Wicked Witch fo the South on us" episodes too much... I'm sure I laughed a few times when my mother "turned witch" in my younger years.

Anyway... I know they truly love each other and this photo is very fitting. Owen is such a protector when it comes to Olivia. And she is his little shadow... following his every move.

I love this shot!

Click on my Shutter Sister button on the left side to see more "Love Thursday" photos from various photographers. Thank you Shutter Sister for creating such a wonderful website!

Fit to Swim

Fit to Swim, originally uploaded by leahOOt.

Well, once again I'm out smarted by a 2 1/2 year old. It's been storming and raining off and on all day. When we got home from work, of course the kids wanted to play outside. Now, my 6 year old didn't argue for the mere fact he has been grounded from "fun" until the playroom is cleaned... but my lovely daughter just wouldn't take NO for an answer. I tried pretty much everything... let's clean (she used to get excited over this, but she's starting to understand a vaccum isn't a fun toy), let's make brownies (ummm... some consideration but... no), so I just told it like it was... "Honey it's raining out, we'll get all wet." Off she storms to her bedroom. Thinking I "won" this itty bitty battle, I started in on some laundry. Low and behold... she comes running out of her room in her bathing suit and out the door she went!

Why haven't I learned how not to underestimate a 2 year old? And another point... do mom's ever really "win"?

A Mother's Rear"view"

A Mother's Rear"view", originally uploaded by leahOOt.

This is one of my favorite shots. One day early this Spring I was driving home and I took notice of how "green" the grass and fields were starting to look... still, just the ground though, no blossoming buds in the trees. But it was refreshing to see the grey dull winter disappearing under the vivid green of Spring. Then I looked backed and had a "mother moment"... my "blossom" looked so peaceful... I began to think about how much she had changed and how fast she was growing up even at a young age of 2 1/2. Soon she would be in Elementary School, then Middle School, then High School and Proms and then graduation and then WHEW... finally, in the driveway and the moment was gone... not before a few tears escaped but well before the sobbing and questioning of how I was doing as a mother, friend, wife, sister, daughter, coworker... and WOW, almost another moment! All you mothers can relate!

Here are our Peony Prince's and Princess' from this past weekend's Peony Parade... yes, we live in small town Midwest Ohio so this is the season for small town festivals and parades. This particular weekend is know as "One Wonderful Experience." Our town is packed full with local artists, musicians, animal lovers, craft lovers, food lovers, etc. etc. etc. And Saturday evening is the 100(+) year old Peony Parade. As one of the oldest businesses in our hometown, we entered my father's 63 Lincoln in the parade and let the grandkids ride on the back. They were terrific! Next year the committee should put together a Peony Prince and Princess contest for young kids... my two kids and my 4 nieces and nephews would surely be the top pick!!!

Meet the newest member of the family...

Kermit Michael the Frog

It is official, frog hunting season is among us. We spend hours walking around the pond, sitting on rocks, just waiting for the frogs to surface. Once they surface, the poor amphibians only have a few seconds of fresh air and sunshine before the lovely beasts (my two children) scare them back to the darkness. Owen has yet to catch one and Olivia just observes, doing pretty much whatever Owen does, with the exception of trying to touch one. Anyway, Kermit Michael is actually getting pretty daring (or just plain mad) and is starting to engage in staring contests with Owen. It's funny... I think if Kermit Michael were to actually speak, he'd be teasing Owen and laughing hysterically at how "slow" he is. Kermit Michael seems to stare Owen down until Owen's hand is just about around his slimy body, then he shoots back into the water, frightening all of us watching... "Those stupid humans... they think they can actually catch me!"... laughing all the way back to his amphibian family!

Oh, you are asking, "why is it Kermit Michael?" Well, for some reason whenever there is something new at home, be it a tree, plant, rock, kitty, or in this case, a frog... we've always asked Owen what we should name it. So, we have Michael the Maple, Michael the "Big Red Rock", Michael the Medim-sized Knockout Rose Bush, Michael the Large Topiary... and many, many more! So, when I asked him what we should name our first frog of the summer, I told him we couldn't have any more Michael's and that I really wanted something original like "Kermit"... Owen came back with a counter offer... so be it... Kermit Michael!

Oh... we long for summers at the ranch!

Just more Pre-K Graduation Pics...

Emotions of a Mother...

Well, the emotions of motherhood set in this past week... my oldest has graduated from Pre-K. He's quite the ham, as these photo show, so I shouldn't bat an eye. However, the tears are flowing as my first born becomes more independent. I know he is ready... he can say his ABC's, count to 100, tie his shoes, recite his address and phone number, etc. he loves to be challenged, and he's ready for what's to come. But, again, I'm saddened at the fact he's growing into a little man and it just all seems to have happened too quick!

Scratch & Sniff

Well this evening I ventured out in the backyard and noticed Spring has finally arrived! Maybe it's been here a few weeks, but tonight, I took notice. First of the vibrant colors (thanks to my loving husband who always remembers my love of yellow and purple)... second the amazingly fresh and powerful scent of my three Purple Lilacs (if only this could be a scratch and sniff sticker for my readers!) These are truly my favorite Spring blossoms... I could lie in the hammock and snooze all night with their invigorating scent lingering around me... but, it is still a little chilly for the hammock AND the mere fact we didn't have enough time this past weekend to get them out would leave me no choice but to resort to the not so soft Arkansas outcropping rock (a little landscaping lingo coming out there...) So, I think I'll retire to my bed and dream of lying in the hammock with the Lilac's floral scent dancing all around me.

Sweet dreams ~