The Smith World

WELLLL...

2010-04-26T09:23:00.000-07:00

it's been awhile. I have a new camera...so I'll have to read up on how to use it and then load into Lauren's little computer that has no card slot. Yes...it's that detailed (the camera), and I'm that technologically slow!!

Beautiful Music

2009-12-16T02:42:00.000-08:00

Lauren's band concert was last night-and it was WONDERFUL!!! I am always so proud of her:) Abigail got to go along and she seemed to really enjoy it. I hope she and Lauren can remain close as they get older!! I'm a lucky mommy..and Shannie (to Abigail)!!!

it has already started!!!

2009-12-10T05:26:00.000-08:00

Okay-it is not even 8:00 and people are already convinced to be hateful!! So far I'm noticing it rather than being bothered by it-so better start to the day!!!

Misery Loves Company

2009-12-09T20:52:00.000-08:00

It amazes me more and more as I get older how people (adults who should know better) thrive on putting others down. More often than not I can be in a great mood-and somebody comes along BOUND & DETERMINED to rain on my parade. STOP IT!!! And more importantly, self, stop allowing it to happen. I have had SO much (what I call) DEAP time lately...Drop Everything And Pray...but I still am discouraged with myself that I allow things under my skin before I get there. I shouldn't let things frustrate me so-but I'm only human. I know my prayers should be that I hope for others to escape the urge to bring down others...(Once again-only human)...so that is my goal. (And I could use your thoughts & prayers please) Nobody (and their satan driven hatred/behaviors) should EVER fluster me!!! Here's to turning over a new leaf. Along with prayers for myself/friends/family...I need to think of those who do not always please me. They need it too!

We have some good news!

2009-12-02T18:12:00.000-08:00

Every kid who went on an audition for the school play will get a part!!! BRILLIANT!!

Part II

2009-12-01T18:38:00.000-08:00

Lauren made it through her audition:) I am SO proud of her for giving it a shot..I think we'll find out in a couple days (?) Either way I'm proud of her for the effort..it takes nerve to even audition!!

Good Luck Lauren!!

2009-12-01T16:42:00.000-08:00

I am sitting in the hall at Lauren's school while she has her audition for the play!! She has to sing and go through some lines...she is SO nervous!!!

Do the kids need training...or is it the parents?

2009-11-30T17:03:00.000-08:00

WOW....Lauren and I went out to dinner this evening, and there were two little boys running, yelling and jumping ALL over the place! At first I was thinking what little stinkers they were, and the poor parents that have to curb that behavior. WELL...we saw one of the parents-and he was doing nothing of the sort!! He was on his cell phone nearly the entire time. By the end of their dinner, my pitty was for the kids who have no chance if their parents won't correct them!!

THE BLOGSTALKER

2009-11-19T19:52:00.000-08:00

I had forgotten a particular person knew about this blog..turns out that he-or she (who will remain nameless FOR NOW) is not losing interest in the not-so-interesting happenings of my life!!

When will it be over???!!!!

2009-11-16T05:35:00.000-08:00

Lauren got sick just a bit ago AGAIN! 7th time!! It is just past 7:30 AM, and she should be at school right now:( She is sad that she'll miss the veteran's assembly today. She had invited the preacher so she feels bad for having to miss it.

Not for a weak tummy!

2009-11-16T00:49:00.000-08:00

That should be a warning slip for motherhood! Lauren just threw up for the third time (I think it's nearly 3 AM)..thankfully this time all liquid. She is so cute-for some reason after she does it each time she feels she has to apologize to me. I keep telling her no problem-I love her and I'm sorry she feels bad. Hopefully this will pass quickly!! She has had it rough this flu season.

Kids...

2009-11-15T19:23:00.001-08:00

I got to keep my niece Friday night-which I LOVE!! Lauren was excited to be home for this over-nighter..last time she had to visit her dad. Anyway..Abigail has not lost her natural ability to produce the atomic poo bomb. She did do a good job using the toilet to potty. Saturday I took the girls for a snack and play place at McD's..good cheap fun. I couldn't help but think of all the germs flying around the place!! I love having her around:)
Lauren is back to school tomorrow after last weeks bug..okay-she just threw up all over the floor-never mind!!

Kids...

2009-11-15T19:23:00.000-08:00

what's the scoop with blogger??!

2009-11-08T15:16:00.000-08:00

Why does it not update me lately? Have I somehow upset the blogger powers that be? Who knows!!
Anyway..another good day! Dean went along with me to church. My mother took us all out for lunch. My grandmother and a high school classmate of her's came out to church and joined us for lunch. Dean and I have done some browsing this afternoon. We have been wanting to try a new shop we had seen on the food channel-so we found it and LOVED it!! We went for a walk down by the river-LOVING this weather! I have really enjoyed him the past couple days. It's nice to not have the kids under our feet every step. I love them all-but I do enjoy some adult time.

ONE HUNDRED..100...CIEN...CENT

2009-11-07T18:43:00.000-08:00

Well...anyway you may say it..it's our 100th post. Not much going on, new anyway. Lauren has been having a tough start to the 2nd quarter of school-but I'm confident she can get through. She is doing a GREAT job w/her braces. I am really proud of her! Dean and I had a really nice (and mostly kid free) day together. We both worked this morning-went to Natalie's last soccer game, had some lunch-saw a movie...and he bought me new shoes tonight. Shoes that he even picked out-so I was proud of that. What was the BEST of the shoe trip is they were originally $110...and we got them for $39!!! My man can bargain shop..he's the best:) My sweet little niece has said her first naughty word..hopefully she'll not make a habit of it!

okay...maybe a break-guess i shouldn't be so hasty!!!

2009-10-31T20:11:00.000-07:00

It's just been a slow (and at times yucky) few months lately. A lot has changed-and I know more is to come. Much of it I don't want to write about-and it's just really tempting at times on this blog to let it all spill out. I don't want to burden anyone with my concerns or fears...which makes me feel at times I should not post much. It'll all sort itself out, there's just a lot on my plate. Trust me-the good outweighs the bad by leaps & bounds.

The End of The Blog

2009-10-25T12:22:00.000-07:00

I'm done

I just don't follow!!

2009-10-20T19:56:00.000-07:00

Maybe I'm dumb-but I will never understand how somebody can intentionally hurt someone they claim to love. I am just done listening.

AND...

2009-10-17T19:51:00.000-07:00

Lauren has made it through the concert:) She felt pretty yucky through the day..but some things (the concert) are worth resting up for. I just hope she hasn't pushed herself too far.

WOW!!!

2009-10-17T19:46:00.000-07:00

Lauren was treated to such a WONDERFUL evening!! Black hummer limo-presents-Miley Cyrus concert!! She has camera with her..Dean has laptop (while camping??...stupid huh)...anyway-once laptop and camera reconnect we'll post pics.

No school-school days

2009-10-14T22:42:00.000-07:00

Lauren has a couple long weekends coming up!! No school this Friday, and she is out next Thursday and Friday as well. All for parent/teacher conferences. I've said it before..and I'll say it again..I feel like I'm on trial as a parent during these things. While I'm nervous for it-Lauren is excited for the days off school. Fun days too..not staying home sick in bed days!! She has been doing a great job..five A's & two B's. She was really going for all A's-but good first quarter effort. This is a new routine switching classes for each period. Hopefully it'll click! I guess I should try to sleep, I think it's near 1 AM!!!

My wonderful boyfriend:)

2009-10-13T17:45:00.000-07:00

I didn't have to do dinner duty tonight!! Dean made a great meal this evening!! We had a beef roast, potatoes and gravy, corn, and rolls. Lauren even ate it:) She really does a good job with her eating, when we all have dinner together.
Lauren is really excited for the Miley Cyrus concert this Saturday. It is so neat to see her excitement! While she is at the show I will be setting up a baby shower:)

Dinner tonight

2009-10-12T19:47:00.000-07:00

Tonight I tried something a bit interesting. Pork chops sprinkled with lemon pepper, then simmer in sweet & sour sauce with pineapple chunks. The meat was served over rice..in the rice I put sauteed (sp) green peppers & onions with stir fry sauce. It was a bit odd to me at first-but once I got over how odd the combination sounded..I could realize the taste was actually quite good:) Good enough for Dean to claim the leftovers for lunch tomorrow!! The taste of home cookbook is a fantastic thing!!

Moving on!!

2009-10-12T18:56:00.000-07:00

I have about had enough. We are all adults...I do not understand why my happiness is a problem for anyone.

Fritz's

2009-10-11T12:01:00.000-07:00

Kids

2009-10-11T11:28:00.000-07:00

Our kids have really done an alright job with the mixing of the families...okay, I'll rephrase that...Natalie has done alright. Lauren and Tyler...let's just say there have been struggles. I really think we're starting to have some breakthroughs...and thank goodness for it!! Tyler did such an awesome job last Sunday that he earned a "Tyler only" night...no sisters:) He was pumped!!! I picked him up from Asbury and took him to get a new coat. He picked it out, and I was quite impressed with his bargain shopping abilities...picking out a $23 coat that was originally $60!! Way to go:) Then we went to dinner at Fritz's, and he was in awe of the train delivering the food. Abigail was quite intrigued as well. Each time we would see a train go by, she'd just keep saying "again...again...again" Too cute!! Afterward we went to Chip's Chocolate Factory and he picked out (a ton of) treats. He had a $20 giftcard to Toys R Us, so he got to go spend it. I think he had a pretty fantastic time!! Hopefully it will encourage all of them to shape up and work for their own special time. Natalie asked me the following day if I would pick her up (and only her) and take her out for her own night! It was cute. Lauren gets so much of my individual attention, but I hope it will encourage her as well to be a little more open to the changes in our family. We got her a couple new pair of jeans, so when she comes home hopefully she'll be excited for those:) I have some unrelated pics to put up...hopefully they'll load:)

Giving it another shot...

2009-10-11T11:26:00.000-07:00

It seems if I try to post one pic at a time it's a little more able to handle it:)

What I have made

2009-10-10T14:49:00.000-07:00

Okay..Paula asked from my last posting what I have made. I baked chicken chimichangas...YUM!!! I made a pork dish that had a maple syrup sauce...quite delicious!!! I made chili the other night-which Dean was actually happy with!! I put together a marinade for shrimp that we grilled:) Altogether-I'd say I'm learning!!!

WHO KNEW??!!!

2009-10-08T18:36:00.000-07:00

Who knew that I (of all people)...can cook??!!! WOW..I am in shock!

Will do...

2009-10-07T04:42:00.000-07:00

Later on I will try again to load the "after" shot of Lauren's braces:) I'm only a month behind.

take another stab at it...

2009-10-06T21:00:00.000-07:00

The "before" shot

thanks

2009-10-06T20:53:00.000-07:00

Yes Paula-i will share what is going on once I know/understand more myself!!

I don't know what to do...

2009-10-05T23:37:00.000-07:00

Please pray for me. Whatever it might be that you belive-please just do.

For the love of Pete...

2009-10-04T16:42:00.000-07:00

We got a new laptop...and I have tried (unsuccessfully) MANY times to upload these pictures that I have needed to FOREVER...(okay...maybe I exaggerate on the forever part). None the less, I am frustrated.
Try again tomorrow...it's just not happening tonight.

untitled

2009-09-16T20:29:00.001-07:00

Just updates I guess...Lauren goes tomorrow for her second appointment with the orthodontist. They will put the bands on her back teeth tomorrow. I will get pics again..and post them! I still have ones from previous appointment:)
School is rolling along. There was a struggle with science for a bit, but I think she has it under control now. All A's and B's..high B's though all over 89.4, so I am confident she can bump those up with some hard work!!
Dean and I went to a 40th in Topeka over the weekend, so it was nice to have some adult time--now we've got all 3 kids...so NO adult time. We signed up for the YMCA today and the oldest 2 will get to use equipment, with exception of the weights. Hopefully it will be used well enough to justify the cost!!
Time to put some kids to bed!

untitled

2009-09-16T20:29:00.000-07:00

Sticks and Stones??

2009-09-12T20:10:00.000-07:00

Who came up with that rhyme of sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me??!!! What a load of hooey (yep-I know-not a smart word). I'd rather have a broken bone than to have a broken heart from harsh words! Especially coming from someone you love.
Kind of a downer-sorry.
In other news-Lauren got her braces, has been doing a good job with them. We had a rough first couple days-her with discomfort, my with listening to her chew with her mouth open:) I am big on chewing with your mouth closed-but she was excused for a bit:)

Nothing in particular...but lots

2009-08-26T14:51:00.000-07:00

Confused?? Me too!! One more week until Lauren gets braces...well okay, a week and one day:)
Sixth grade is going well...we have had several "back to school" nights...so it feels pretty official now, she's back!! Meet the teacher last night had parents go through their child's schedule, with timed passing periods in the hall.. wow...I felt old!!! Well...young of course compared to some of the other parents, but whatever!! Lauren has to go to school early tomorrow to work in her technology class...I guess getting adapted to the passing periods/learning new ways that she MUST be prepared has not yet made itself to friendly. I'm sure she'll get it, and I'm glad she has a teacher willing to help her get caught up!!!
I do have some new pictures, but have to somehow get Dean to get them from my phone to his computer. The blackberry software is loaded onto his.
By the way...the movie Little Manhattan is on. If you haven't seen it, I HIGHLY recommend it. It is the most adorable little story, and entirely appropriate for even Lauren to see.

Where have I been??!!...and WHY am I not asleep??

2009-08-16T23:06:00.000-07:00

Quick update-Lauren had a FANTASTIC bday!! New tv, clothes, $$, puzzle, movies! She's been feeling alright about it:). Tyler had a bday the 15th-and he did alright himself! A new DS, which he has been wanting for quite awhile:)
Tomorrow is the first day of middle school...maybe that is why I am still awake. I am so relieved that everything has come together so well for the start of the school year. Hopefully it will be a great year for Lauren. She is where she wants to be-which will help I am sure.
I guess I should try for some sleep now! Will get pics in the morning!!

Ready for birthday celebrations!!!

2009-08-01T18:18:00.000-07:00

We are starting Lauren's bday Wednesday and we'll have some more next weekend!! I have picked up a few things so far..seems like Lauren is getting so old so fast, and I'm really not ready for that. We'll have to get good pics:)

What to do???!!!!!!!

2009-07-31T23:47:00.000-07:00

Braces are outrageous!!! I (thankfully) have great insurance-and I'm thankful for that!! Being faced with a $3,000 expense without both parents participating=not my idea of fun! Lauren will be getting braces in September. The first appt is Sept 3rd and they'll finish them up Sept 17th. She is entirely worth it, I just hope I can pull it off:)

We will be doing a small bday this coming Wed for Lauren. Then next Sat we will go to Worlds of Fun for her birthday. She wants all kinds of (big ticket) items for her birthday. Don't really know yet what we'll do...guess I should figure out what it is! Wish me luck on bday and braces. I know everything will come together-as it has a way of doing always-i just stress...always.

Big Day Tomorrow!!!

2009-07-29T21:25:00.000-07:00

Lauren goes to the orthodontist tomorrow!! We'll find out what they suggest and the (dreaded) cost. Keep your fingers crossed that it's reasonable!!!

Allowances!!

2009-07-12T07:27:00.000-07:00

Kids are now eligible to EARN an allowance...although I wish SOMEBODY would've discussed the amount with me before telling the kids!!! Natalie and I went out last night to get her a wallet for her to hold her $. She was telling everyone that she gets an allowance, it was so cute!! Since somebody (initials DJ) did not discuss the amount with me-I told them they have to save 1/2 of each allowance!!!
I got to see my little cousin Molly yesterday..I hadn't seen her since Julie's wedding, I was so happy-and my Grandmother was over the moon!!!
Dean's games got rained out today-so we're stuck with him:)
Have a great day!

Changes...READY for this week!!

2009-07-05T20:29:00.000-07:00

Here it is Sunday night..this weekend FLEW by!!
I am ready for Lauren to be home!!! One week from tomorrow!! It can't go fast enough..I miss her so much!
Hopefully our news will come through this week. Could be one of the most life changing weeks I've had in my 30 years, and for some reason (and completely out of character) I'm not even nervous. I welcome the change!!! Wow how things change!!!
I guess it's time for me to relax, start of another work week tomorrow:)

I miss worlds of fun!!!

2009-07-01T20:39:00.000-07:00

Well...really I miss Lauren!! I know that whe she gets home that will be one of the first things on her 'to do' list!!! Fine with me:)
I thought my pending big news may have been out the door..but I am not quite sure. Much stress right now..to the point of massive headache tonight. I haven't had one in two years..but I feel it coming on.
By the way..Chipotle=SICK!!!

Finally photos!!!

2009-06-29T20:26:00.001-07:00

Mixed...some from quite far back!! Lauren making red velvet cake, Natalie & Lauren at the KU game, Worlds of Fun. Hopefully I'll get better about this!

Cheeky Quote

2009-06-28T18:52:00.000-07:00

I saw this in the cheeky quote spot on the blog...had to record it!!!
Why do men like intelligent women? Because opposites attract!!!

LOVE IT!!! Explains my weekend to a "t"

But, enough of that! We went to worlds of fun yesterday for just a minute, and we couldn't handle it. When you seek out all the water rides in an effort to stay cool...then you stand on the bridge over the Monsoon for repeated runs of it just to get soaked...I think it means it's just TOO HOT for ANYONE to be there!

Tyler finished up his state tournament today. They placed third...I know they were all exhausted! They did a good job despite the heat of the weekend! I do enjoy going to see him play, but honestly, TOO MUCH driving!!!

I haven't heard from Lauren in a few days, so that's frustrating. I have been trying to connect with them so we can get her Worlds of Fun pass to her, but no answers:( Hopefully her dad will just pay for her to go so she can be taking advantage of her summer!!!

Maybe when Dean gets back around he'll help me get some pics put over to the computer. Who knows? Hard to believe the weekend is already over...back to it again tomorrow!!!

What a night

2009-06-26T21:09:00.000-07:00

I saw something tonight I have never seen before and I hope to never see again. Enough said on that one..anyone who was there knows the tale!!!
I tried transferring photos from my phone just to find I can't transfer them!! I'll give it another effort tomorrow.
Tyler took a hit right to the shin tonight...had a mega d-q moment...and made our way home. They did an awesome job tonight!!!
Natalie wants to have a girl's day out tomorrow with hair and nails...so I'm thinking along the lines of my hair/her nails!!!
I am so anxious for Lauren to come home!! Lots in the works for changes coming down our road, and I'm ready for her to be a part of it all!
Maybe I can get some help with the pics tomorrow-who knows!!

You know you're getting old when...

2009-06-25T19:05:00.000-07:00

You start to agree with the old stories you hear from your parents and see how they can now apply to your own life. I will always remember my mother telling us she was in the car on her way back from a dentist appt when the news came over the radio that Kennedy had passed away. I always thought that seemed insignificant, at my young age hearing those stories I always wondered how or why you would remember the date/circumstances/place you were when someone not even related to you died. WELL...I remember where I was hearing that Princess Di(I know that is technically not proper) had passed, and we were at lunch in Iowa City watching her funeral. I will always remember being at school hearing about the Columbine shootings...and I was in a meeting at the bank when the World Trade Center towers fell..being in my Grandmother's kitchen on the phone with my mother and had to tell her my father had passed (by far THE most suck moment..sorry for the term) WELL...today will be another one. I will always remember my brother listening to beat it...and loving Farrah Fawcet because she made me think I could grow up to have beautiful hair!!! I wished when I was little that I could have her hair!!! Life is short..tragically, unpredictably short.

WOW...not such a graceful exit from the 20's!!!

2009-06-10T19:58:00.000-07:00

I FEEL OLD tonight!!! My little brother (29 year old little bro) calls me tonight to ask how my "last hours" are going...what a dear!!! (Whatever) So tomorrow is it-yuck!!!

LONG day:)

2009-05-16T21:09:00.000-07:00

Well...we closed down the park this evening! All three of the kiddos did a pretty good job today. We got there around 2:30-ish...and left at ten tonight. I'm amazed nobody cracked by that time. (honestly, I came close) I guess we're going back again tomorrow...shocked??.....nope, neither am I!!! Once we got into the car, all three of the kids we're already planning what they wanted to ride first tomorrow.
I got some pictures today, I'll have to try to remember to load them tomorrow. My camera went home with Dean.
We were going to go up to the farm tomorrow for Memorial Day (well, memorial day-ish) grave duty...but my grandmother excused Lauren from it. She knows they all have such a good time going to Worlds of Fun, and it certainly beats driving 2 hours up to the farm to drive around cemeteries for hours...then followed by a long drive home.
I would just like to say I am proud of my daughter...and Dean's kids...and the church kids!!! From what I saw today at worlds of fun...countless kids throwing trash on the ground, cussing, horrible PDA, running around carelessly and nearly running into little ones...I am so happy that our kids (mine, his, church acquaintances) show more respect then that. Way to go parents!!!

Can you guess what we're doing this weekend??!!!

2009-05-15T12:46:00.000-07:00

Yes...we're going to Worlds of Fun!! Hopefully the weather will cooperate...so far what I am seeing for tomorrow is high 60's & sunny. We'll take it!!! Dean has agreed to ride The Patriot...so I'm going to see that happens:) I was impressed last time when he got on the Timberwolf and the Prowler.
Lauren has been wanting to have a garage sale, so I am going to start getting stuff together again for that. She rarely wants to part with anything, so we'll give it a shot. I have been wanting to get rid of my tv cabinet, it's just too big. I love it for the fact it closes completely and looks like a piece of pretty furniture rather than an entire wall consuming monstrosity that shows an ugly tv all the time!!! But...I really don't have much room for it now:(

Strictly for the sake of having pictures...

2009-05-14T11:26:00.001-07:00

Some of these photos are old...I just love the faces Abigail is making, and what better time is there then when both Smith girls are fast asleep and QUIET!!!
Then there is a "before" the too much hair cut haircut photo, and an "after." Granted...the after is not a good photo, I will get one tonight from Nathan's graduation.

A Too Much Hair Cut, haircut

2009-05-10T12:53:00.001-07:00

I'll have to get the photos up of it on the laptop, since it is on my phone...but I took Lauren in for a trim...and it is SHORT!!!
Here are some pictures though, some when we had Dean's kids at Worlds of Fun, some me and Lauren. We have gotten our $$ out of those now for sure...and the summer hasn't even started. Best Christmas idea we had last year...and I think we'll continue it each year!!!

Worlds of Fun Weekend!!

2009-05-03T20:27:00.000-07:00

We have pictures...but I can't get the card into this computer, so I'll have to take care of that later!! We had quite the weekend...Friday night Lauren and I got to ride the Prowler. Season pass holders got to go for a preview of it and FREE food, always good!!! Saturday all of us went, and again today. I was really shocked at how good the kiddos did...better than me, I am EXHAUSTED!!!
On the way out today we went to Wal Mart for some treats to take along and paper for a homework project...and here it is 10:00, and we don't have the paper. Wal Mart was just a bust today. Trouble with the card machine, didn't make anyone AT ALL happy. So, now the better half (better as in, claiming he is usually the one who has it more together, WELL) is off to Wal Mart! Poor thing, he's wiped out too. He was wonderful enough to do the yard work at my grandmother's this evening. (all to spare my new shoes from being dyed green) He has his great moments!!!
Lauren's eye seems to be improving...she had her first round with pink eye this week. She handled it really well, but has to finish her eye drops. Hopefully nobody in school ends up developing it. It didn't look to me to be too much fun!!
This Wednesday is the Grand Prix at church...I was a slacker and didn't get Lauren a car kit. So we're going to re-do one of her old cars so she can compete again. She always enjoys participating.
Hopefully we'll get to watch Abigail sometime this week. She is always a great de-stresser for Aunt Shannie!!! I just love her:)
Have a wonderful week!!

pic after band concert

2009-04-29T09:09:00.000-07:00

I still have to get the pics off of my grandmother's camera...but here is a cute one at McD's

Will get pics up:)

2009-04-29T00:26:00.000-07:00

Well...we forgot to get MY camera to the concert...so we'll have to load up the ones from my grandmother's camera this weekend when I'm up there. Lauren did an AWESOME job

Band Concert

2009-04-28T09:34:00.000-07:00

Lauren has her band concert this evening. I have my camera (GRRREAT!!!) so we will have pictures of this one:)
Nothing new around here! School, work, and work & school. That is about as exciting as it gets. Dean and I are going to take the kiddos to worlds of fun this weekend, so hopefully it's not pouring down rain and the kids can have a good time. I'm excited for it. Although, we got these passports and listed Tyler as the child rate (under 48")...well, I think he is actually over, so we'll have to pay for that adjustment I'm sure. Whoops:)

Bday/Wedding Anniversary

2009-04-20T14:22:00.000-07:00

I love it when multiple holidays/events fall on the same day!! Dean's bday is tomorrow (38...does that make men mad to tell their age??), and my parent's wedding anniversary was tomorrow as well. Is it appropriate to say was? Don't know! Anyway, makes things so much easier for my aging brain to remember!!
FYI...Marley & Me, sad movie!! I couldn't finish watching it. I guess I am a ninny...but that's okay, I can handle being labeled!!
I don't think I put on here what happened last week at Erika's soccer game. Natalie (6) went behind the bleachers to play with the other kids and came back around crying. Our first thought was wondering what Tyler or Lauren had done to her. Through her tears she says 'I dropped a brick on my foot.' WHAT??!!! I kind of thought maybe one of the other kids had done it in play, but nope, she picked up the brick and dropped it right on her big toe. She said she was 'trying to break it.' Dean had to ask if she was referring to her toe!! The things kids do!!! Always something going on. I really don't know how mothers with more than one child do it!!

Scary Territory

2009-04-16T12:25:00.000-07:00

Thanks to my sister in law, I have been consumed with the fear of my ten year old and potentially boy crazy thoughts!!! Lauren wore her Easter dress to school today, did her hair (and nearly put on make up, but we hit the brakes there!!) and for SCHOOL!! Paula commented on my myspace that maybe Lauren was doing this over a boy. Hopefully not...the blissfully ignorant part of me wants to think she is just taking more of an interest in her appearance...but she's pretty open with me, so I'm afraid Paula might be right:( YIKES!!
I'm getting ready to go get Lauren from school and take her out to DeSoto high school. Dean's daughter has a soccer game out there, so Lauren is really excited to go watch. She loves all things DeSoto, so hopefully she doesn't cheer for them (Erika plays at Piper)!!! That could be interesting:)
We're going to have Abigail this weekend!! Haven't watched her for awhile, so we're excited!!

2009-04-10T16:04:00.000-07:00

something went wrong...words were being cut out!! Whoops

Easter Weekend

2009-04-10T15:06:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow morning we have the Easter egg hunt at church...I'm sure it will be a zoo of kids!! Lauren wants to wear her Easter dress to it, she is having a hard time catching on that she doesn't need to dress up for this. (not as though she has never been to one at our church before!!)
Hopefully Paula will let me use her camera:) Dean has mine, hopefully I can get it back from him Sunday!!
Lauren and my mom are going to do some eggs tonight. I really don't remember doing any when I was little...but I'm getting old so I could just be forgetting!!

61		days
1470		hours

UNTIL MY 30TH BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

But who's counting?? Something has gone horribly wrong with this post...I am having a difficult computer day:)

Dean and I get to go see the 17 Again movie this coming Tuesday night. (don't remember if I've blogged that yet...see, getting old) I got an email the other day that I got passes to it..I'm really loving the free movies!! This one is PG-13, so Lauren won't get to go:( She is pretty bummed to be missing out on Zac Efron!! Such a little girl, getting older everyday. Scary!!

Have you ever noticed?

2009-04-09T06:50:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the older people get, the more outrageous they become? Some behavior that I have seen lately out of adults (with children) is what I would expect to see from poorly behaved children in high school. Concerns me. Really concerns me especially for their children!! I cannot believe someone that grew up in church (anybody who goes to our church that reads this, it isn't anybody at our church!!) should know better.
Venting again...but when people are hateful and try to effect the lives of people I love, I tend to get a bit upset. (okay, a lot upset) I could probably use some calm-me-down...get my head back in the right realm (helping people, not being angry at them) prayers right now!! I'm letting things under my skin!!

HANNAH MONTANA-MANIA II

2009-04-08T21:46:00.000-07:00

Lauren had an incredible time!!! When I went to pick up our tickets the lady asked me if I would like another one to admit 2 more...OF COURSE!!! Dean and Natalie came along. It's a clean movie for kids, which I was super excited about!!! Before the movie started they asked some trivia questions for prize giveaways...I was kind of nervous that if Lauren was called her answer would not be heard. But, the first question was asking what Miley's real name is, and she was loud enough!! She won the Miley Cyrus book. It was so neat to see her so excited!!!
Funny (and quite ridiculous) story! When I went to pick up the tickets, there was a couple in the office yelling at the poor receptionist. They had entered an auction for a Keith Urban autographed guitar. (I'd be yelling at myself, turns out they payed $1,200 for it...are you KIDDING me??!!) Anyway, they were going on how you couldn't even read it, the guitar was "cheap", wasn't the brand of guitar they thought it should be, and that the autographed message wasn't what they wanted it to say. Come on...the man was nice enough to do it!! It said.."To the Smith (don't remember the last name) family, With Love, Keith Urban" Nice enough I would think. Stuff was rolling big time in the office...I felt like I needed to put my boots on!!
Anyway...enough for tonight. It's nearly midnight! Turns out Golden Girls is on each night starting at 11:00 for a couple hours. Not that I need to be up so late, but I find myself watching it. Makes me think of being at my Bina & Grandpa's house when I was young. My Grandpa just loved watching them...sometimes as I watch it I can still hear his laugh. Might be part of the draw that I feel to the show!
Seriously, enough for tonight. We'll get some photos up:)

Hannah Montana-mania

2009-04-06T18:23:00.000-07:00

Bring it on...and for FREE!!! I love previewing movies...because I cannot stand paying ticket prices!!! Wonderful match:)
If you haven't figured it out, I got preview passes to the new Hannah Montana movie. Lauren and I will get to go see it Wednesday night...the ONLY bad part of this is that it falls on church night. I feel bad for not being with my Awana's kids, but can't pass up a free movie for the kiddo! (because I don't want to turn around this weekend and pay for it)
So...not much else new. I saw Abigail today for a bit...she finally says I LOVE YOU...although it sounds like "I love ewww" She is the best little niece EVER! So cute.
I need to get some pictures up, I'm just noticing how pathetic I've been with it. We'll have some from Easter I'm sure.
Lauren will have to sign on Wednesday evening to share the Hannah Montana excitement with you.

I have a new found appreciation for 'the blog'

2009-04-04T11:22:00.001-07:00

I love this thing!!! A dear old friend I haven't heard from in maybe 7-8 years (maybe an exaggeration) commented on a previous post!! I'm so excited:) Some of my sweetest memories have Tiffany in them..so whoever gave her the blog info-thanks to you!!!

For some updates, having fun with Aflac. I love being out and about with my day, not tied to a desk. If you haven't looked at it before for your family, I encourage you to do so...which means-ask me!!!

Lauren is through with her dental rounds for awhile, at least until August. I'm fearing there will be more teeth pulled, but I'm not the dentist-we'll see! School has been frustrating for her lately. She is smart as can be, just has trouble with her focus on occasion which leads to her falling behind on class work. Homework she does alright. I have to urge her to slow down and do things right the first time. When she goes to correct her (stupid) mistakes..(most are, aren't they?!) she completes it all perfectly. Frustrating!!

Dean is still hanging in there! What a sport:) Ten months I think he said? (okay, to those of you who are married/have had long term relationships this may be no big deal, but for those of you who truly know me.... you know that this is a BIG deal for my history over the past 8-9 yrs) He is great, I definitely appreciate him! Although there is something he has been keeping from me, and all who know me will know that I cannot stand waiting on a surprise!!! I love to be in the loop...and he's keeping me out of it:( bummer

Anyway...Easter is coming up so we'll have photos of Lauren's outrageously beautiful, makes her look 14+ dress! I'm wondering when her rapid rate of growth will slow down...I'll be the short one REAL soon!

AND...there are 67 days (1613 hrs, but who's counting??!!) until my 30th bday:( YIKES...

And it's not even Monday!!!

2009-03-25T18:48:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness..put this down as the worst day of record!!! I know I shouldn't let things get to me that are out of my control-but I am quite stubborn!! What I should do -v- what I actually do is the struggle!! I need to stop and remember the things I'm thankful for!! Lauren and her health!! Thank God! To finally have a great boyfriend with a backbone and that cares for me...extremely thankful:) A job, a roof, food, family-none of those in that particular order:) Add to the list a niece that finally says Shannie!!! Love her:) We're getting ready to go to church, maybe that will help to put my head/spirit back in the right place.

SHE MADE IT!!!

2009-03-11T22:04:00.000-07:00

Lauren got her cavity filled and her tooth pulled!! No crying, no complaints!! I was really proud of her:)
We got to the dentist office...and Lauren kept getting more nervous each time someone would be called back. She kept saying, "Mama, I'm next, I just know it." We waited about 25 minutes before she got called. Needless to say I went back there with her. We had decided together that she could use the "laughing gas" to help her to relax. She was quite scared of the shots...SO, they pulled out the little nose piece to start her on the gas. Usually they take kids to about 30%...BUT...not Lauren. They kept asking her how she was feeling, and NO change! So they increased her to 35% and still no change. They took the child to 40% to which she said she felt "a bit different" but nothing too much. So they said they did not want her to go over 43%, but that did the trick. Afterward she said "Mama, I think I saw six dentists, but there were only 2 in there right??" Too cute! We have to go back on the 24th for her to get another one pulled. I remember wanting to crawl out of the dentist chair and run away while I was getting teeth pulled, but Lauren didn't even budge. Made me feel like a big baby for how I handled it!
Report cards come out Friday...wish her luck. She had a rough time at the point of transferring schools but got all her work caught up and made the honor roll. We are hoping for all A's, but I am proud of her effort to go from falling so far behind to even A's and B's. (but truthfully, she would be quite thrilled for all A's)
GOOD ABIGAIL NEWS...she is finally saying Shannie!!! I am so excited:) Lauren sound like Loan...Natalie (dean's daughter) is NaNa...she says Nonnie really well, and she has the cutest little roar:) Love it!!!
Anyway, it's late and I have an early start to the day:) Have a great Thursday!!!

Cavities, Extractions, and BRACES(?)...OH MY!!!!!

2009-02-20T15:32:00.000-08:00

Lauren had an interesting visit to the dentist..but nothing we didn't truly expect! She has a couple baby teeth that have not come out and the perm teeth are breaking through...so the baby teeth have to come out-hence the extraction! That would be extractions, yes, more than one:( She's a tough kid-hopefully she'll be good with it. Just one (barely there) cavity they are going to seal over, so nothing too horrible with that. AND..they gave us a referral for an orthodontist, but suggested we wait until the perm teeth come in. The problem is overcrowding making her alignment crazy, but it may solve itself as her teeth shift further. So no hurries in that arena:) Wish her luck!

Another one from Paula

2009-01-29T12:36:00.000-08:00

Yes another one! Give me a break-I'm bored at work!! ((LOL)) I am grateful for my job but right now things are SLOW. Enjoy.

1. What is your occupation right now?Real Estate
2. What color are your socks right now?Black
3. What are you listening to right now?My nerves making my stomach talk
4. What was the last thing that you ate?Ritz Cracker
5. Can you drive a stick shift?Yep, had to learn how to drive on one
6. Last person you spoke to on the phone?Troy
7. Do you like the person who sent this to you? Yep
8. How old are you today?29
9.What is your favorite sport to watch on TV?Football/College Basketball/Baseball
10. What is your favorite drink?Diet Coke
11. Have you ever dyed your hair?Yes
12. Favorite food?So many different ones...not enough room to list
13. What is the last movie you watched?Some mummy movie Dean rented, not sure of the name
14. Favorite day of the year?Until this year it was June 11th!!!
15. How do you vent anger?Talk to Dean or cry.
16. What was your favorite toy as a child?My Barbies...I cried when my little bro cut their hair.
17. What is your favorite season?Like them all, just don't like our humidity
18. Cherries or Blueberries?Blueberries
21. Living arrangements?Bonner
22. When was the last time you cried?Last night
23. What is on the floor of your closet?Carpet, nothing else
24. What did you do last night?Went to church
27. What are you most afraid of?Lots of stuff
28. Plain, cheese, or spicy hamburgers?All of the above, did I mention I like food??!!!
29. Favorite dog breed?Toy poodle, alaskan mal.
30. Favorite day of the week?Tuesday
31. How many states have you lived in?2
32. Diamonds or pearls?Pearls
33.What is your favorite flower? Many different, but yellow roses top the list!!!

SCATTEGORIES

2009-01-29T12:24:00.000-08:00

Scattegories
I got this off of Paula's...nothing too exciting on mine, but I'll be a participant anyway!! You have to use the first letter in your name for each answer. You should post these on your blog too! :)

1. What is your name: Shannon
2. Boys Name: Shannon (yes, I'm not too creative)
3. A Girls Name: Ummm...I'll go with Suzie
4. An Occupation: Security Guard
5. A Color: Salmon
6. Something you wear: Socks
7.A Beverage: Soda
8. A Food: SALSA
9. Something found in the bathroom: STINK
10. A place: Seattle
11. A Reason for being late: Sleeping in
12.Something you shout: SHUT UP:)

Now the fun part is to see your answers!!

Lauren's Concert

2008-12-04T17:46:00.000-08:00

Here are some pics from Lauren's concert.

2008-12-04T17:20:00.000-08:00

Here is a song from Lauren's concert.

mirror mirror on the wall..I'm becoming my parents after all!!!

2008-11-27T16:11:00.000-08:00

For those of you that actually knew my father well..you'll catch on! I caught myself at dinner time today rocking back in my seat and lacing my fingers behind my head!! I remember him doing that so often and it just brought back lots of memories:) Hope you all had a great Thanksgiving!!

OOPS...forgot to mention

2008-11-03T12:36:00.001-08:00

I have to add...if y'all (horrible I know) haven't noticed...Ab's hair is beginning to get some curl in the back:) I am one HAPPY Aunt Shannie:)

WOW...we were moving down the list!!

2008-11-03T12:28:00.000-08:00

I just realized I haven't been on this thing in AGES...I have noticed our names moving down the list on Paula's blog page!!! Nothing entirely new around our place. 5th grade is keeping Lauren busy...I cannot believe it is her last year in elementary school...pray for my mental state-I really am quite terrified by my child being mixed in with 8th graders when she is in 6th. Seems SO young to me!!!
We got through Halloween. Lauren was with Jason, so we missed her at the trunk or treat. Dean's kids were with him so we took them out to the church. The inflatables were set up so everyone had a good time. Avery wanted me to race her down the slide...but little did my big behind know...you don't bounce down at my age/height/weight!!! You sit down gently and slide. You are no longer 10 yrs old and rail thin Shannon:) A good laugh was had by all that witnessed my stopping mid slide!! Not my most graceful of moments!!!
Work and school as usual otherwise!! I should really get some photos put up, which means I should really get some batteries for the old camera:)

Paula tagged me...but I'm boring:)

2008-09-29T15:33:00.001-07:00

Okay...6 things about me...I hope you're not tired, you may be asleep by #3!!!

1. I cannot sleep with a pillow. I lay down on my back, but usually fall asleep on my belly with no pillow.
2. If you use the toilet at my house, put down the lid. I don't know when or how this started, but it just must be done!!!
3. I always wipe down the toilet (even at my house, where only family uses it) before I use it. Again, don't know where this came from...perhaps from growing up with a little brother?? (sorry trav)
4. My thumb nails grow at an angle, away from each other.
5. I have a strong selfish desire for Abigail's hair to curl!!!
6. I love bleach!!! Clothes, cleaning, have to use it!!!

SO...those are the first 6 things that came to mind!! I haven't been on this in FOREVER...so much has changed it seems. Abigail is one...Lauren is in fifth grade, my sister is moving. Changes in the Smith family!!! I will try to get some pictures put on here.

2008-07-22T13:46:00.000-07:00

Changes

2008-07-19T17:48:00.000-07:00

Wow...a lot can happen in a month!! It's been crazy! I have some good pictures...but Paula has posted the one I really wanted to put up on her blog...between the cheek shot and the spiked hair!!
Lauren wrapped up softball. Thankfully...no more driving out to the middle-of-nowhere-MO!!! Dean has helped her a bit with her pitching, and she really seems to be listening, so that's nice to see. She stayed the night at my sister's place Thurs night, my grandmother's last night and thankfully is home tonight!! (although a bit of adult time is nice)
I am still helping out at the clubhouse where we live to continue getting that nice rental discount!! When gas is $4/gal and you drive an explorer...you look for ways to save a few bucks:)
Abigail is still with us a couple days a week, and we may be taking on a 4 yr old on Mondays...wow...what a house-full that will be!! Oh well...it will be fun. We all need help sometimes:)
Wish me luck on Mike's house. It has been shown tons lately with a couple 1st time buyers REALLY interested. A close would be GREAT!!!

2008-06-17T08:24:00.000-07:00

Okay...I haven't done this in a LONG time...and I don't really have time to do it now!! SO...been busy, year older, daughter gone for 30 days w/her dad (frown...tear), working more hours (that's good & bad at the same time), did I mention I'm a year older?? :)
There is a pic of Lauren before her 1st softball game, isn't she pretty!! She is having a good time with it, and I hope to get out to one of her games this week!
.
Then there is Lauren on the 4 wheeler...she had a good time...as much as you can riding around an oval over and over and over..did I mention she rode around A LOT??!!!
Then there is my niece on my bday enjoying the cake frosting!!! Anyway...been busy. Paula has had the laptop too, so I haven't been able to use it much, and I gave them my house computer (well...I let them use my house computer). SO, once they get it put up over at their place I should have more frequent use of the laptop!!! Anyway...I'll get back to doing this Allen...I heard you called my mom commenting on my lack of blogging!! I hope you had a great Father's Day!!!

Can't think of anything clever for a title!!!

2008-04-26T17:09:00.000-07:00

What a busy few weeks it has been, or maybe just one week and it feels like a few!! Hours are crazy where I work, more than what I had expected...but let's face it, who couldn't use the extra money!!! We're still keeping Abigail while Paula works, and now her hours will be changing too. Lauren has wrapped up choir for the year, they had several shows, and performed yesterday at Crown Center. She was SO excited yesterday when she got home to tell me they got Sheridan's ice cream. I would've been excited too!!!!! Anyway...LONG week:)
Julie is FINALLY married!! No more stress of the wedding. Amazing how such a happy time can get SO crazy. I will be running off, getting hitched, and we'll party when I get back...FYI. IF I can find anyone bold enough to take me on:) Who knows...I'm just more concerned with having a great marriage than a wedding!!! Hopefully someday...I don't want to be the old cat lady!!
Lauren has her first softball game coming up this next Monday. Hopefully they'll be short games, considering this one doesn't start until 8:15 and we live almost an hour away. Crappy...
She was late to practice this past Monday. There was a stalled semi on 435 and traffic was horrible. So we detoured and the stop and go of 135th was not much better!!! Anyway, we were almost there and a guy (looked homeless and drunk to me) was yelling and very much in the face of a woman with a baby stroller. So, since I thought he had alcohol in him and in his hand (Lauren later told me she thought it was Lipton Green Tea), I called 911. I was concerned for her, and too scared to stop myself. So on we went to practice, and hour and a few minutes late. Just a little bit beyond our control.

TIIIIIIRRRRRRRED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-04-16T17:25:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness, am I EVER exhausted!!! I decided to help out at the complex where I work, because let's face it...a girl can use a rent deduction and some extra cash:) BUT...am I ever tired! 15 hrs weekly helping out has turned into 30!!! Yesterday, I was up at the clubhouse at 9 until 5. Went up North to list a house and didn't get home until well after 10:00.
Lauren has made a new friend, whose name just happens to be Lauren Elizabeth!!! Go figure:) Her parent's are the new managers at our complex and they get to hang out on the afternoons that I'm up there.
We have yet ANOTHER program tomorrow night!! The 4th grade music program at school. To be honest, I'm glad it's on a Thursday. I don't mind driving Lauren ALL THE WAY into MO for practice, but I'm not too sorry to miss one:) Gets pricey...and quite time consuming:)
My little cousin is getting married this Saturday, thank God it will be over soon!!! I got Abigail a bib that says "are these people REALLY my relatives?" LOVE IT:) Explains lots!! Anyway, I'm upset Jason isn't letting Lauren attend, but I guess that's part of the territory I must live in. I did Julie's bridal shower on a weekend that I had Lauren so she would be able to take part in at least one part of the wedding process for her.
I should start to clean...I'm running out of evening:)

Choir concert

2008-04-06T16:47:00.001-07:00

Two more days to go!!! Tuesday will be the last choir concert of the year!!! Lauren is getting really excited, and kind of nervous:)
Tomorrow we have softball practice...yet another crazy drive!! She definitely should be playing ball in Shawnee!! Or at least the state of Kansas!!!
Yesterday I brought Abigail over to visit Bina. She did a really good job...ate two large bottles and finished the rest of her carrots. The child can eat...clearly evidenced by the size of her chunky thighs:) Love it!!!
I cannot believe it is already April! School will be out in less than 2 months, what will we do with the summer??

SLUGGER SMITH...JR

2008-04-01T09:16:00.000-07:00

When I was playing ball growing up, Rick Atteberry gave me a nickname...Slugger Smith. SO...Lauren had her first ball practice last night, and I think she may have taken over the title!! I was SO impressed!!! She got up to bat (and didn't have many hit-able pitches), but made contact with one and got a double!!! Abigail and I sat in the car watching, it was so windy I coudn't really take her out there. So she had fun staring at herself in the mirror...I don't think the child will have any self-esteem issues!! She loves to look at herself:)
Lauren's last choir concert is next Tuesday. The choir from each school in the district will be performing together, about 450 kids total. I'm sure it will be pretty impressive:)

Spring Break/Sprint (yuck)

2008-03-18T11:48:00.000-07:00

Spring Break is here...and Lauren is quite happy about that!! She was supposed to have softball practice last night, but it got rained out...no shock there considering there was over 2 inches of rain:) She got a bat and her shoes, my grandmother took her out on Sunday to pick them up, and she is pretty proud of them:) Lot of pink. I remember the only option I had for shoes was black & white..now there are all kinds of crazy color combos!! But, she is happy, so that's what matters I suppose.
My niece (I love her to death, but it aggrivated me none the less) drooled on my phone and now I can't hear anything out of it!! The earpiece sounds muffled, and it's quite frustrating. And when I'm on speaker, nobody can understand me. SO...I try to reach sprint today, and their customer service is something less than excellent!! We have a rep through work who is trying to sort things out for me, so hopefully she can get me some good news:) Cross your fingers!!
My little brother (such a god send when it comes to my car) has been my handy man/mechanic whatever you call it for awhile now. Considering he is much cheaper than an auto shop...buy the supplies and cook him dinner and he'll take care of it for me!! SO...the other morning I found out my left brake light/turn signal is out...and Travis is going to take care of it for me this evening...after changing my oil last week!!! (and my old green car)
Hope you have a Happy Easter!!!

2008-03-13T11:15:00.000-07:00

Hi this is lauren i got signed up for softball finally!!!! and that is the first sport that i have played since i was about three or four years old and i did gymnastics then and i learned how to walk up a wall do a front flip and back flip on the bars and jumped in the foam pool alot! and shortly after that i did ballet and swimming classes but when it was the day that we were going to compete and win the gold medal or gold trophy or what ever no one was there! not even the coach! and i was so upset all that practicing and hard work and doing my best for nothing! i was so bummed! and now i am in softball and the name of my team is the petties . in know right? kind of weird. but any way my cousin is on my team and her name is kayla and we are going to have the best time!!!! we had practice last monday but they cancled that because no one was going to go and i did not like that and now we have real practice on monday and it is going to snow tomorrow and saturday and i hope it does not snow on monday because then i would be super duper wuper bummed!!!!!!!!!!!!!! wouldnt you? but anyway check out my blog at www.thesmithworld.blogspot.com! see u there!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Some new pics

2008-03-08T11:14:00.001-08:00

Nothing too much...but it's been awhile!!!

Lauren has one month until the all district choir show, which had ought to be pretty impressive!! The choir from each school in the district will perform together, and then they get to go to Crown Center this month, so that's loads of fun for her!

Paybacks are HECK!!!

2008-03-01T11:13:00.000-08:00

Now I know just how frustrated my mom got when my room was a horrid mess...because I'm living it. Lauren has had a fascination lately (and by lately, I mean all the time, everyday) with taking EVERYTHING out of her dresser, cabinet, shelves, you name it. It is all in the middle of the floor! Granted, it's just untidy...it's not dirty, but it's still driving me up the WALL!!! (and it's a short wall that I'm at the top of). Last night, Paula came over to take Lauren to play Bingo at her school. And before they left, Paula told her to pick up a bit. Way to go Paula!!! Unfortunately, they didn't win any prizes...but it sounds like they had a good time. They stayed until it was over at 9:00. They had snacks, and it was all free, so you just can't beat that!

Last week, I got a pretty frustrating call from the KS Real Estate Commission. My fingerprints for my background check couldn't be read by the KBI...so I got re-printed and sent them in. This was the third hang up in processing my KS license, so I was feeling pretty bummed. The lady told me they would expedite my re-prints...so we sent them off Tuesday of this week, and my license was back at my office yesterday!! THANK GOD!!! So I was ready to roll today and got to show a house in Basehor.
Nothing much new around our place. Lauren is growing like a weed (like a weed on steroids, I've never seen anything like this!!), and is nearly as tall as me!! We're gearing up for my little cousin's wedding, which means 4 trips to Columbia over the next month, but it's worth it!!

Conferences/Valentines/Awanas

2008-02-18T07:00:00.000-08:00

Well it has come that time again!!! This Thursday (yes Valentine's) we had a "student lead" conference. Lauren had to do a power point presentation showing her strengths, areas for improvement, favorite projects/subjects, and mapping out a plan to work on the improvement. I was really impressed. I always STRESS majorly over these things, like I'm being put on trial as a parent. But, she is doing a great job. She has the highest score for reading fluency in her class, and is doing great in each subject.
Submitting everything for my KS license proved to be an adventure. I had a packet of papers that had to be sent to Topeka, and ONE page of probably 8 turned out that I sent in the copy. Whoops...KS needs the original. SO...as I'm filling out the form to request it AGAIN from MO, the office where I live called me and it had been left up there while I was making my copies. Relief:) I love it when things turn out like that:)

More good Lauren news. She finished her book this past Wed night at Awana's. The whole bunch was on fire!! Lauren finished her book, Avery finished hers, and Kade did 4 verses I think. Each week I am more impressed by these kids. I just love it!!!

I've Been Tagged

2008-02-16T07:30:00.000-08:00

Okay...I'll have to do one and then get Lauren to do one also. Six things you may not know about me...it'll be boring for sure, I think everyone knows most everything there is to know

1. I wrote a poem after my grandpa died that was published
2. My right leg is shorter than my left by almost a full inch. (I was told once it was due to me being a breach baby..HMM)
3. I am terrified of complete darkness.
4. When I was young, (probably up to 4 yrs old) I cried uncontrollably when I would have pictures taken...then I would cry when I looked at pics of myself.
5. I am totally blind (couldn't even read my speedometer w/out aid)
6. 27 Dresses was based on my life...j/k, but it really feels like it!! Always a bridesmaid, never a bride:)

Spelling Bee

2008-02-02T15:56:00.000-08:00

Lauren got through three rounds of the spelling bee! She did an awesome job, we were all really proud of her! My mom, Paula and Abigail went along to watch, and thankfully Abigail was on her BEST baby behavior:) Both Smith girls were pretty impressive Friday morning:)
Lauren got a medal for participating, and was really excited that it wasn't a plastic one! She wore it all day at school, and has been showing it off like crazy!
The morning of the bee was a bit rough for me. I got pretty much NO sleep that night before. Lauren got to bed pretty easy so she could be rested for the bee. I fell asleep around 10:30 or so, and was woken up around one o'clock to what I thought was someone breaking in through a window...panic of great amounts followed!! After making calls to whoever I could find would answer, I walked around my place to find all the doors and windows still locked. Relief...for a minute. I walked back into my room and heard more glass shattering. I opened my bathroom door, and saw that my shower door had fallen apart. WHAT A MESS!! Then, I got really nervous thinking someone was IN the house and had hit it. (yes, I'm paranoid...sometimes I question if I should live alone) SO, I looked under the beds and in the closets. All clear, more relief:) The door got replaced by maintenance late Friday morning. By a door that looked like they had ripped it off a filthy abandoned apartment...so I got a bottle of bleach and went into clean it. Stepped on probably the only piece of glass that didn't get picked up by the shopvac. What a mess!! I am still not letting Lauren walk around barefoot. We have mopped/swept/repeated SEVERAL times. What fun!!
Paula got a pic of Lauren with her bee medal, so I'll be sure to load it soon.
In some good news, everything has been sent for my KS real estate license, so being legal in both KS and MO is a great thing!! Hopefully I can find a few good people to work with!! (shameless, yes I know, but if y'all have any referrals for me, HOW AWESOME WOULD THAT BE!!!)
Have a great weekend:) Super bowl party safe!!

The Countdown has Started!!

2008-01-26T12:58:00.000-08:00

We now have less than one week until the spelling bee!!! Lauren has been studying over her words, so I really feel she will be prepared!! (if she can keep control of her nerves, she'll be fine)
In Abigail news...she rolled over at my house this week in an exhausted fit! She ate (like a horse), had an atomic poo bomb (as Lauren called it), burped a few times and still was not happy. SO...I thought, I'll just take her into my room and lay her down. She was quite obviously exhausted. I layed her on her back, she cried and kicked for a few minutes, then rolled over and by the time she hit her belly she was asleep. I had to call Paula, because only a couple hours earlier, she said Abigail hadn't rolled over again since that first time. She really gets herself upset fighting sleep! She definitely has the stubborn Smith streak!!!
REALLY, I promise, I'll get some new pictures in:)

Wish Lauren Luck

2008-01-24T12:48:00.000-08:00

Friday, Feb 1st Lauren will be in the Horizon spelling bee!! She is studying hard, and hopefully her nerves won't get to her!! We got a letter sent home yesterday that the winners will go onto the Johnson county bee on Feb 9th. That is pretty exciting stuff!!
We will have to get some new pics on here sometime soon

NEED NEW PICS

2008-01-15T13:34:00.000-08:00

I know I haven't posted ANYTHING lately, certainly no new pics...so I will get back on track someday (Paula, since I think you're the only one who reads this). I have some really cute ones of Lauren and Abigail to get posted.
Everything is great otherwise.

Good News

2008-01-08T15:41:00.000-08:00

I have no new photos to put on, but I have some great news. I was very proud this afternoon when Lauren got home from school and told me she qualified for the school spelling bee. The best two spellers from each class get to participate, so she had to earn the spot. It has been a really great week around our place!!!

Some new pics

2007-12-30T14:12:00.000-08:00

Here are some shots of Lauren & Krys sledding...Christmas...and Lauren shoveling the drive at Mike's house, such a sweet kid. What stinks is that right after she finished, it had already snowed over her job!

Oh, the things they do to me...

2007-12-20T15:57:00.001-08:00

I just don't know about my Aunt and cousin sometimes. I come over here, and all they do is put funny hats on me....keep flashing some bright thing in my face and making funny noises? Just what is it these people are thinking? Maybe if I make a funny face....okay, that's what they want!!! These silly girls are so easily entertained!!

2 down-2 to go

2007-12-19T13:10:00.001-08:00

Lauren performed with the childrens church choir, school choir and now has two shows left this coming weekend. We're winding down. We're hoping everything goes smooth for Saturday and Sunday...guess we should just stop worrying over what we can't control!!! Easier said than done:)

The last pic is of Lauren chatting with Abigail while she does her "tummy time"

At one point, Abigail had brought her face up real high next to Lauren, but I missed it. DARN!! It was so cute, like they were just staring right into each others big blue eyes. I'll have to watch for another photo opp...not too scarce around this house. It seems I alway have the camera on them.

First concert of 4, starts tonight!!

2007-12-16T09:10:00.000-08:00

Lauren has been busy practicing with the children's choir at church, and also the 4th/5th grade choir at school. This evening the kids will be singing as part of the adult choir at church. Then tomorrow evening (after a LONG series of reschedules) the school choir will have their concert. I am so excited!!! Lauren really enjoys singing, I'm sure I'll tear up:)

My grandmother and I are going to do a bit of Christmas shopping today, so I'm excited for that!! This has been a long weekend, they get longer it seems each time Lauren is gone. Friday night, had dinner and went to a concert which was the BEST yet of the series. Sat I had an appt to list a house, and the drive back from Independence was filled with sliding cars, freezing rain and snow. For someone who usually isn't a nervous driver...I was terrified!! Last night I had a couple firsts on my list!! I framed a window and a door...and used a nail gun!! Scary, Shannon with a nail gun:) Oh, and helped assemble a table saw. Okay, truthfully, I read the instructions, but still....I'm sure I was a great asset:):) (if my mom reads this, I'm sure she's laughing now)

Anyway...wish us luck for Lauren's series of concerts coming up this week. I'm sure she'll do great!!!

Field trip today

2007-12-13T16:58:00.000-08:00

Today Lauren gets to go with the 4th/5th grade choir to sing at a couple nursing homes. Peanut put on his Christmas sweater to get some pics with her. (we're not nuts...the dog doesn't have a seasonal wardrobe) She said they had great reaction from the residents. I'm sure it made their day!!!