Here's my unwilling-to-be-photographed daughter. Click to see her properly captured, with the help of Laura, one of the moms.
Mali waits to receive her medal.
Here's a photo of her photo on display.
Monday, July 24, 2006
Soccer Tournaments
Nine soccer games in three days, in + 100° weather. Andrew's Aloha United Poi Dogs in the Lake Oswego Nike Cup, and Mali's Aloha United X-Treme in the Cascade Cup in Gresham/Clackamas. Both kids played great. Mali's team got second place in her division, losing a hard-fought championship game 3-1.
Here's my unwilling-to-be-photographed daughter. Click to see her properly captured, with the help of Laura, one of the moms.
Mali waits to receive her medal.
Here's a photo of her photo on display.
Here's my unwilling-to-be-photographed daughter. Click to see her properly captured, with the help of Laura, one of the moms.
Mali waits to receive her medal.
Here's a photo of her photo on display.
Thursday, July 20, 2006
Redmond
I brought the kids with me to Redmond on Tuesday. They had a great time with their cousins while I worked. I heard all about the great trip to Greece, and then Andrew, David, and I played games late into the night. We had great food (grilled peaches, chocolate chip cookies) both nights out on their soon-to-be deck. We played another game last night, then left for home, arriving a little after 11:00.
Here is Dalton, not blogging.
Dalton and Rylin watching TV. Click to see them just before Rylin discovers the camera watching her.
Dalton playing his own game. Click to see Andrew playing.
Here is Dalton, not blogging.
Dalton and Rylin watching TV. Click to see them just before Rylin discovers the camera watching her.
Dalton playing his own game. Click to see Andrew playing.
Monday, July 17, 2006
Deschutes River trip
Yesterday was filled with river rafting. I'm still waterlogged. Mali called it a "life-changing experience."
We left the house at 7:15 and were on the river by 11:00, Paul and I in an inflateable kayak, and Mali, Lilly, and Natalie perched on a large raft with Doug the expert at the oars. Our other raft was manned by the father of the family I didn't know, and ten minutes downriver it highsided on a giant rock and dumped the mom and one kid out. I caught just a glimpse of the raft poking high in the air above the rock, then watched the mom and kid float downstream away from us. They were rescued by the first raft, and while Paul and I picked up various items they had dropped we got highsided as well. Paul immediately tumbled over backwards into the river, and I was free.
Paul was able to climb back in on the calm side of the rock, and we then linked up with the rafts for about a minute before the current pulled us downstream, where we finally found an eddie we could open a beer in.
The mom and both kids decided they'd had enough, and walked up to the road to hitchike to the park where our lunch was stored. After lunch they would all drive home.
Several times I went completely underwater while remaining in the front of the kayak. My hat didn't bother to leave my head until later, when it was completely waterlogged. Paul and Mali took turns saving it.
Paul and I debated opening a new front on the squirtgun battle with some passing strangers we saw were also armed, but we ended up sliding into a large hole in the water and both flipping in. Luckily, our potential targets were immediately next to us, and I was able to use their raft to haul myself out of the water and back into the kayak, after first rescuing our lone squirtgun. I then kayaked to a calm spot on the bank where I could hang on to a rock and wait for Paul.
He eventually made it back into the kayak, but not before heroically taking one more step into the river to rescue the suntan lotion. That one step was expensive, as he was dragged an extra twenty meters downstream, bouncing off of rocks all the way.
The largest rapid was not as dangerous as last year, since the water level was higher, so after we took a raft and the kayak through it, I let Mali take the last raft down. Doug piloted both rafts down, and Paul and I took the kayak. This was where Paul saved my hat.
Mali got her hat-saving opportunity later when we hit The Ladders, an area of very deep and turbulent water with no rocks, where everyone gets to swim down the river. There was a large crowd there, and we joined them, beaching the crafts and walking up just before the beginning of the rapids. Mali and I jumped in together, and she saved my hat, but lost me as I caught a current that took me to the far bank. I had to walk back upriver (on the well-worn trail - I was not the first to do this) and try again to catch the right current. I made it to the correct bank this time, but I've never been so tired in my life.
We left the house at 7:15 and were on the river by 11:00, Paul and I in an inflateable kayak, and Mali, Lilly, and Natalie perched on a large raft with Doug the expert at the oars. Our other raft was manned by the father of the family I didn't know, and ten minutes downriver it highsided on a giant rock and dumped the mom and one kid out. I caught just a glimpse of the raft poking high in the air above the rock, then watched the mom and kid float downstream away from us. They were rescued by the first raft, and while Paul and I picked up various items they had dropped we got highsided as well. Paul immediately tumbled over backwards into the river, and I was free.
Paul was able to climb back in on the calm side of the rock, and we then linked up with the rafts for about a minute before the current pulled us downstream, where we finally found an eddie we could open a beer in.
The mom and both kids decided they'd had enough, and walked up to the road to hitchike to the park where our lunch was stored. After lunch they would all drive home.
Several times I went completely underwater while remaining in the front of the kayak. My hat didn't bother to leave my head until later, when it was completely waterlogged. Paul and Mali took turns saving it.
Paul and I debated opening a new front on the squirtgun battle with some passing strangers we saw were also armed, but we ended up sliding into a large hole in the water and both flipping in. Luckily, our potential targets were immediately next to us, and I was able to use their raft to haul myself out of the water and back into the kayak, after first rescuing our lone squirtgun. I then kayaked to a calm spot on the bank where I could hang on to a rock and wait for Paul.
He eventually made it back into the kayak, but not before heroically taking one more step into the river to rescue the suntan lotion. That one step was expensive, as he was dragged an extra twenty meters downstream, bouncing off of rocks all the way.
The largest rapid was not as dangerous as last year, since the water level was higher, so after we took a raft and the kayak through it, I let Mali take the last raft down. Doug piloted both rafts down, and Paul and I took the kayak. This was where Paul saved my hat.
Mali got her hat-saving opportunity later when we hit The Ladders, an area of very deep and turbulent water with no rocks, where everyone gets to swim down the river. There was a large crowd there, and we joined them, beaching the crafts and walking up just before the beginning of the rapids. Mali and I jumped in together, and she saved my hat, but lost me as I caught a current that took me to the far bank. I had to walk back upriver (on the well-worn trail - I was not the first to do this) and try again to catch the right current. I made it to the correct bank this time, but I've never been so tired in my life.
Sunday, July 16, 2006
The Season's First Swim Meet
Yesterday's swim meet was a great success! So was Mali's sleepover Friday night - she didn't go to bed until 7:00 A.M.
Andrew won the backstroke by about 5 seconds. He got second in the Butterfly vs. a 16-year-old.
Here's the start of Andrew's freestyle Race. Click to see end.
Relay team:
Andrew won the backstroke by about 5 seconds. He got second in the Butterfly vs. a 16-year-old.
Here's the start of Andrew's freestyle Race. Click to see end.
Relay team:
Friday, July 14, 2006
Mali's New Hairstyle
Here's a candid shot of Mali's new hairstyle. Click it to get this morning's look, just before she heads out to Vacation Bible Study with Zoë.
Thursday, July 13, 2006
Thursday - News
I forgot: The big news is that Mali got a haircut! She got tired of dealing with long hair during soccer and after swimming. It's very cute. I'll post a picture tonight.
Thursday - No news
Last night we had pizza - Mali has decided she likes my super-thin crust vegetarian, throwing the whole pizza ordering scheme out of balance. We managed last night because I somehow confused mushrooms with olives on Susy's half of the pizza, so Mali had a piece of that as well. Be sure to check back later for further pizza-preference discussions.
It rained yesterday, but happily cleared up in time for Andrew's soccer practice. It's sunny and beautiful now. They both have a practice tonight.
I'm finally reading Wicked, by Gregory Maguire. I love it so far. Andrew and Mali are going through the books he got at the end-of-schoolyear book exchange. Reading a lot, and yes, they're both signed up for the library's Summer reading program.
Sunday Mali and I are going river rafting with several families of Mali's friends. Paul is going, but his girls are heading to Toronto for two weeks.
It rained yesterday, but happily cleared up in time for Andrew's soccer practice. It's sunny and beautiful now. They both have a practice tonight.
I'm finally reading Wicked, by Gregory Maguire. I love it so far. Andrew and Mali are going through the books he got at the end-of-schoolyear book exchange. Reading a lot, and yes, they're both signed up for the library's Summer reading program.
Sunday Mali and I are going river rafting with several families of Mali's friends. Paul is going, but his girls are heading to Toronto for two weeks.
Monday, July 10, 2006
World Cup weekend
Pablo and his new bike made me rediscover mine and we went for a couple of rides this weekend. Yesterday we went to the Hillsdale farmer's market and bought berries for his new ice-cream maker, and so ate ice-cream at Paul's last night with our delicious and HUGE smoked ribs.
Susy and the van rescued us and our bikes at the Safeway, so we just missed the start of the World Cup final. Matias touched the already shaky cable from the wall to the TV just before halftime and it went out. Susy went out and bought another cable while we watched downstairs, suffering through some non-HD viewing. We only missed recording about a half-hour of it. Rocio's father, Isaac, requested Rocio record it for him - he and Marianne will be here in a couple of weeks. We think he'll like seeing it in HD. The difference is astounding.
Susy and the van rescued us and our bikes at the Safeway, so we just missed the start of the World Cup final. Matias touched the already shaky cable from the wall to the TV just before halftime and it went out. Susy went out and bought another cable while we watched downstairs, suffering through some non-HD viewing. We only missed recording about a half-hour of it. Rocio's father, Isaac, requested Rocio record it for him - he and Marianne will be here in a couple of weeks. We think he'll like seeing it in HD. The difference is astounding.
Thursday, July 06, 2006
4th of July
We had a nice 4th. Mali and I decided to go on a bike ride in the morning, and Andrew tagged along on his rollerblades. We had a lazy afternoon, and then went to Pablo's for dinner and fireworks. No great photos in the dark, but here's one to give you the idea. Yes, that's Andrew trying to light his hand on fire. No one was injured, not even Zoë, the firework magnet.
Monday, July 03, 2006
MaliBlog
Mali has blogged about her soccer game on her web site: http://www.xanga.com/pinkypox
I created a generic account anyone can use to post comments, both here or on Mali's weblog. To leave a comment on Mali's weblog - always much appreciated - just do the following:
Go to her website (You can use the link above. Also, if you click on it with the right mouse button, you can select the option to "Open in New Window". This allows you to keep these instructions open while you try them out. Or simply print them out.)
Select the tiny little " # comments" text at the bottom of her post. This will display a new web page.
Scroll down to the comment box on the new page, and write whatever you like - just please tell us who you are inside the message somewhere.
Then click the Submit button. A new page will appear.
In the "Please Sign In" box, type in the following:
In the Username box: GenericFamilyMember
In the Password box: generic
Give it a try!
To leave a comment here the process is nearly identical. Just use the "Login and Publish" button instead of the "Submit" button.
I created a generic account anyone can use to post comments, both here or on Mali's weblog. To leave a comment on Mali's weblog - always much appreciated - just do the following:
Go to her website (You can use the link above. Also, if you click on it with the right mouse button, you can select the option to "Open in New Window". This allows you to keep these instructions open while you try them out. Or simply print them out.)
Select the tiny little " # comments" text at the bottom of her post. This will display a new web page.
Scroll down to the comment box on the new page, and write whatever you like - just please tell us who you are inside the message somewhere.
Then click the Submit button. A new page will appear.
In the "Please Sign In" box, type in the following:
In the Username box: GenericFamilyMember
In the Password box: generic
Give it a try!
To leave a comment here the process is nearly identical. Just use the "Login and Publish" button instead of the "Submit" button.
Victory! and a Tie!
Callooh! Callay!
Mali's team won both their games, the first one on penalty kicks after a 0-0 tie, and the second one 3-1. Andrew's team tied their last game 2-2, and finally showed signs of promise. Unfortunately we learned this morning that Sharog, who scored the first goal and is amazingly fast, broke his wrist in a fall in the first half. He had to leave for an X-ray and we were left with no subs. Both Mali and Andrew played fantastic, making lots of big plays and playing smart. We celebrated afterwards with Pablo, Rocio and Matias over hamburgers in our backyard.
Here's more photos of Mali and her team. Susy tried getting some of Andrew, but she's not used to the camera yet and they didn't turn out.
Behind the throw-in photo is one of Mali's team standing World Cup style to watch the penalty kicks. Mali is 7th girl from the left. They're bracketed by their coaches, Dean and Rhonda. Dean is British and the girls are all in love with him.
Mali's team won both their games, the first one on penalty kicks after a 0-0 tie, and the second one 3-1. Andrew's team tied their last game 2-2, and finally showed signs of promise. Unfortunately we learned this morning that Sharog, who scored the first goal and is amazingly fast, broke his wrist in a fall in the first half. He had to leave for an X-ray and we were left with no subs. Both Mali and Andrew played fantastic, making lots of big plays and playing smart. We celebrated afterwards with Pablo, Rocio and Matias over hamburgers in our backyard.
Here's more photos of Mali and her team. Susy tried getting some of Andrew, but she's not used to the camera yet and they didn't turn out.
Behind the throw-in photo is one of Mali's team standing World Cup style to watch the penalty kicks. Mali is 7th girl from the left. They're bracketed by their coaches, Dean and Rhonda. Dean is British and the girls are all in love with him.
Saturday, July 01, 2006
Soccer!
We had the start of the first real tournament for both Andrew and Mali today. The each lost both of their games, but they played well. I am now the assistant coach for Andrew's team, so I didn't get any pictures of them. Here's one of Mali preparing to fight for an enemy throw-in, with another from the pre-game practice behind it.
CoRyoko and Zeke in Oregon
Cory, Ryoko, and Zeke stopped by LATE Thursday night, but stayed until noon Friday. We had a nice visit, and tried to plan out another get together, but the Summer gets busy quickly. Possibly something just before school is out. Maybe a trip to Boise?
Here's a photo:
Here's a photo:
Thursday, June 29, 2006
Our Latest Summer Schedule
Here's an update to our Summer Schedule:
June 15th: Last Day of school.
June 19th: Swim Team practice begins.
-- Upcoming --
Tonight! CoRyoko and Zeke come by for a visit.
July 1st and 2nd: Soccer tournaments for both Andrew and Mali.
July 15th: Swim meet at Murray Hill.
July 21st - 23rd: Soccer tournaments for both Andrew and Mali.
July 29th: Swim meet at Eastmoreland.
July 30th - August 1st: Camping at Pacific Beach.
August 5th: Swim meet at Murray Hill vs. Sunset A.C.
August 13th: Championship Swim meet at Mt. Hood CC.
August 14th - 18th: Horse Camp for Mali.
August 18th: AREVA Golf Tournament.
August 20th - 23rd: Fishing at Sekiu for Andrew and Oregon Dad.
August 27th: Kirk family picnic in Bremerton.
September 5th: First Day of school.
June 15th: Last Day of school.
June 19th: Swim Team practice begins.
-- Upcoming --
Tonight! CoRyoko and Zeke come by for a visit.
July 1st and 2nd: Soccer tournaments for both Andrew and Mali.
July 15th: Swim meet at Murray Hill.
July 21st - 23rd: Soccer tournaments for both Andrew and Mali.
July 29th: Swim meet at Eastmoreland.
July 30th - August 1st: Camping at Pacific Beach.
August 5th: Swim meet at Murray Hill vs. Sunset A.C.
August 13th: Championship Swim meet at Mt. Hood CC.
August 14th - 18th: Horse Camp for Mali.
August 18th: AREVA Golf Tournament.
August 20th - 23rd: Fishing at Sekiu for Andrew and Oregon Dad.
August 27th: Kirk family picnic in Bremerton.
September 5th: First Day of school.
Soccer is our life
Two soccer practices tonight, last night, and the night before that. Nothing on Friday. Saturday is the big tournament. Each kid has two games Saturday and two more Sunday. At least they are in the same place, so we will just hang out at the fields all day. Hope for pictures.
Susy has sort-of started her new job. She is working in her new office Tuesdays and Thursdays. So far so good.
Susy has sort-of started her new job. She is working in her new office Tuesdays and Thursdays. So far so good.
Monday, June 26, 2006
Heat Wave!
It is HOT here! Nearing 100 over the last couple of days. Swim team is first thing in the morning, so at least that is not too bad. The kids are mostly indoors afterwards. Andrew's soccer practice tonight was brutal. He was ready, but poor Matias got really dehydrated and couldn't play much. The coach took it really easy, but then they scrimmaged the girls team. At least they won 2-0 tonight. They might be getting better. It is hard to tell. Their first real tournament is this weekend. Mali's too.
Friday, June 23, 2006
Home!
I drove home late last night after an after-work Red Hook Brewery golf tournament practice session (drinking, not golfing). We convinced 4 golf newbies to play, allowing us more leeway with our own game. Frank (coordinator) was there, and now can choose between them and us to put ahead of the wound-too-tight team. He'll probably use us to bracket them. Sadly, I missed a better practice session, with actual golf involved, Tuesday when John took Dad to Druid's Glen for Father's Day, and other brothers played too. Work is toooo busy, but deadlines are placated and everything is going well. It's good to be home.
Kids are at swim team practice. Friday is "Fun Day." Mali says she hates Fun Day. We'll see, this is the first one of the year.
For more on Mali, check out today's blog entry.
Kids are at swim team practice. Friday is "Fun Day." Mali says she hates Fun Day. We'll see, this is the first one of the year.
For more on Mali, check out today's blog entry.
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Quick Update
I'm working in Redmond, day 2 today. I called home. Mali spent the night at Zoë's, and Andrew will meet up with her at swim team practice today.
Last night I saw Rylin and Dalton, and read Rylin Goodnight Moon and put her to bed. I went to bed before Dalton, at 8:30, since I've lots of work to do today.
Last night I saw Rylin and Dalton, and read Rylin Goodnight Moon and put her to bed. I went to bed before Dalton, at 8:30, since I've lots of work to do today.
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
Summer Schedule
Here's an update to our Summer Schedule:
June 15th: Last Day of school.
June 19th: Swim Team practice begins.
-- Upcoming --
June 29th: CoRyoko and Zeke come by for a visit.
July 1st and 2nd: Soccer tournaments for both Andrew and Mali.
July 21st - 23rd: Soccer tournaments for both Andrew and Mali.
July 30th - August 1st: Camping at Pacific Beach.
August 14th - 18th: Horse Camp for Mali.
August 18th: AREVA Golf Tournament.
August 20th - 23rd: Fishing at Sekiu for Andrew and Oregon Dad.
August 27th: Kirk family picnic in Bremerton.
September 5th: First Day of school.
Not yet mentioned: Swim meets probably every Saturday, beginning soon.
June 15th: Last Day of school.
June 19th: Swim Team practice begins.
-- Upcoming --
June 29th: CoRyoko and Zeke come by for a visit.
July 1st and 2nd: Soccer tournaments for both Andrew and Mali.
July 21st - 23rd: Soccer tournaments for both Andrew and Mali.
July 30th - August 1st: Camping at Pacific Beach.
August 14th - 18th: Horse Camp for Mali.
August 18th: AREVA Golf Tournament.
August 20th - 23rd: Fishing at Sekiu for Andrew and Oregon Dad.
August 27th: Kirk family picnic in Bremerton.
September 5th: First Day of school.
Not yet mentioned: Swim meets probably every Saturday, beginning soon.
Sunday, June 18, 2006
Summer Begins
School ended Thursday. Mali's report card was truly amazing - nearly all O's (for outstanding)- 19 in all. We're very proud of her, she really pulled it all together the last trimester. Andrew's report card will be coming in the mail soon.
We've had the first soccer games, both losses, unfortunately. Mali and Andrew each played great.
Tomorrow is the first day of swim team. Mali is not too happy about it. I wish I'd had a camera with me during her tantrum in her room. Here's some pictures of the tail end of it after we went downstairs.
We've had the first soccer games, both losses, unfortunately. Mali and Andrew each played great.
Tomorrow is the first day of swim team. Mali is not too happy about it. I wish I'd had a camera with me during her tantrum in her room. Here's some pictures of the tail end of it after we went downstairs.
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
New Couches
Here's a picture of our new couches and coffee (sushi) table. Oh, and the kids. Note Andrew's new haircut. Mali was heading out the door, which is why she's wearing her backpack. The sushi table unfolds to become twice as big, which provides a HUGE surface. Needed for eating sushi, apparently.
Monday, June 12, 2006
Couch Raising
No pictures - sorry! The camera was out of batteries and I got busy in a hurry. It was quite a circus here! Dave, Pablo, and Paul came over to help. We moved out the old TV, hutch, desk, cabinet, and foosball table, took out the window and slid the couches up the ladder into the playroom.
The hard part turned out to be discovering how to remove the window. We managed it with some minor damage, and it is back in now, but still needs a little work.
Andrew and Matias were a great help in cleaning out the playroom to prepare it for it's reconfiguration. Mali spent the day at Zoë's until the rest of the Spitzers and Anayas joined Paul and Pablo and us at our house for pizza.
The new TV is set up and looks very good. We watched a few minutes of Ray on it with everyone as a test. Our new couches for downstairs will arrive Tuesday.
I just discovered new content over at Mali's site: wen life gives you food -- eat it!!!
The hard part turned out to be discovering how to remove the window. We managed it with some minor damage, and it is back in now, but still needs a little work.
Andrew and Matias were a great help in cleaning out the playroom to prepare it for it's reconfiguration. Mali spent the day at Zoë's until the rest of the Spitzers and Anayas joined Paul and Pablo and us at our house for pizza.
The new TV is set up and looks very good. We watched a few minutes of Ray on it with everyone as a test. Our new couches for downstairs will arrive Tuesday.
I just discovered new content over at Mali's site: wen life gives you food -- eat it!!!
Sunday, June 11, 2006
Weekend I
Well, I'm sick and so am no fun. Susy took the kids to the pool yesterday and I tried to take a nap, but couldn't so got up and mowed the lawn.
Today promises to be busy: We're moving furniture and buying a TV. Right now Andrew is glued to the TV watching Mexico vs. Iran World Cup action. I'm going to join him for awhile.
Update: Now we're all sitting in the living room watching soccer. Mali's even got Sherbie in his soccer outfit.
Today promises to be busy: We're moving furniture and buying a TV. Right now Andrew is glued to the TV watching Mexico vs. Iran World Cup action. I'm going to join him for awhile.
Update: Now we're all sitting in the living room watching soccer. Mali's even got Sherbie in his soccer outfit.
Friday, June 09, 2006
Nutritional Benefits of Size 5 Soccer Balls
I miss Ricardo. I imagine him watching soccer somewhere now.
I only wanted to see the first 10 minutes of the first game of the World Cup. I mean, before watching a game or two this weekend and settling in for some serious soccer watching NEXT weekend. But Andrew burst back in the door with his friend Tiana at 10 minutes to 9:00 this morning, begging for a ride to school because they missed the bus.
It is the last Friday of school before Summer vacation. Last year he waited until the very last day to miss the bus.
Go Brazil!
Andrew's betting big on England. My upset pick is Japan to go far. Czech Republic will probably do well, as I forgot about them when selecting my pool picks.
Mali got her uniform last night at practice. She's very happy with it, and her number. She has dubbed it Sweet 16, and all is good.
I only wanted to see the first 10 minutes of the first game of the World Cup. I mean, before watching a game or two this weekend and settling in for some serious soccer watching NEXT weekend. But Andrew burst back in the door with his friend Tiana at 10 minutes to 9:00 this morning, begging for a ride to school because they missed the bus.
It is the last Friday of school before Summer vacation. Last year he waited until the very last day to miss the bus.
Go Brazil!
Andrew's betting big on England. My upset pick is Japan to go far. Czech Republic will probably do well, as I forgot about them when selecting my pool picks.
Mali got her uniform last night at practice. She's very happy with it, and her number. She has dubbed it Sweet 16, and all is good.
Wednesday, June 07, 2006
Soccer Star, II
Mali went to a practice of the U-11 girls Aloha United classic soccer team last night. I saw lots of smiles, but she had to mull it over for awhile afterwards. While Susy and I were out celebrating our demonic anniversary buying a new sofa and loveseat, Mali decided she would join the team. In fact, we got home and she was all over me to email Rhonda and tell her she would play. I've already heard back: The team is pleased she'll play, they like Mali.
New furniture arrives Tuesday. This weekend promises craziness when we lift the old couches through the second floor playroom window. We'll get pictures. Also, Andrew actually plans to attend another track meet this weekend. This is the first of the Oregon State meets.
New furniture arrives Tuesday. This weekend promises craziness when we lift the old couches through the second floor playroom window. We'll get pictures. Also, Andrew actually plans to attend another track meet this weekend. This is the first of the Oregon State meets.
Sunday, June 04, 2006
Mary's Party
Sunday we went to Coulon park in Renton for a surprise birthday party for Aunt Mary. It was great fun. Here's some photos:
Mali hams it up while Mary unwraps her presents. Click for another view.
Grandpa and Rylin
Andrew shows Dalton some soccer moves. Click for another view.
Mali hams it up while Mary unwraps her presents. Click for another view.
Grandpa and Rylin
Andrew shows Dalton some soccer moves. Click for another view.
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
Memorial Day Winery Tour
We headed out into the country yesterday to visit wineries. Paul left early on the bike and we picked him up, then went into the Adelsheim vineyard. The Shea winery and a local cheese company were also giving out samples there. We discovered we could buy a large chunk of cheese for a dollar and eat it with the free bread. It was great fun, but we somehow managed to get hungry anyway. We got directions for the shortcut over the mountain to Dundee and ate at the Dundee Bistro. The weather was great so we ate outside, but the sun was very bright for us Oregonians, especially after the very dark weekend. Pablo showed us the Uruguayan soccer hat, which you can see behind the picture below.
Monday, May 29, 2006
The pool is open!
The weather has been cool and wet all weekend, but Andrew still went to the pool yesterday with Kyle's family. He spent last night at their house.
We had the usual neighbors over for dinner last night. I grilled a tri-tip steak, and people brought sausages and salads. Alana even made chimichurri. Susy tried out Paul and Nancy's new Honda Pilot after dinner when she and Paul went out and bought pies for our dessert. Then we all watched Casanova, a cute and fairly mindless comedy.
We had the usual neighbors over for dinner last night. I grilled a tri-tip steak, and people brought sausages and salads. Alana even made chimichurri. Susy tried out Paul and Nancy's new Honda Pilot after dinner when she and Paul went out and bought pies for our dessert. Then we all watched Casanova, a cute and fairly mindless comedy.
Thursday, May 25, 2006
More news from Europe
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
Andrew's Toe
Andrew had his toe surgery this morning. He lounged around all day, watching TV and playing on the computer. He did get to watch A League of Their Own, which is somewhat educational, in my opinion. "There's no crying in baseball!"
He went to soccer practice tonight to watch, and played a very small amount, carefully avoiding his big cartoon toe. Here's a picture of his nurse-wrapped toe. Click to see his smiley addition.
He went to soccer practice tonight to watch, and played a very small amount, carefully avoiding his big cartoon toe. Here's a picture of his nurse-wrapped toe. Click to see his smiley addition.
Tuesday, May 23, 2006
First soccer practice
Andrew had his first soccer practice last night. It was uneventful - they just did drills. It rained hard for about half an hour of it. Before the rain Mali and I kicked a ball around a little on the sidelines. I also talked with Andrew's teammate Jordan's mom and met his little sister, Faith, aka Farth, aka Farthignugen, or as I will call her from now on: Punch Bug.
Susy showed up for the last half-hour of practice, just as the rains stopped. We trekked to Subway for dinner, where the high/lowlight was watching my sandwich roll out of the bag and it's wrapper onto the floor.
Susy showed up for the last half-hour of practice, just as the rains stopped. We trekked to Subway for dinner, where the high/lowlight was watching my sandwich roll out of the bag and it's wrapper onto the floor.
Photo from Saturday Night
Here's a sample of what Mali, Zoë, and Hannah were up to while we were at Elk Cove Saturday night.
Monday, May 22, 2006
Chicago Stuffed Pizza
Susy took Zoë and Mali shopping yesterday at the new Kohl's. She said the girls had great fun trying everything on, and they came home with new clothes, shoes, and Zoë got some new earrings.
Andrew had William, Matias, and Kyle over for an extended period of Halo2 and then actual outdoor soccer up at the school. I set out random food at them for lunch and got rid of some leftovers. Yardwork kept me busy until I got tired around 4:00 and went to see Pablo for some mate'. We played Scrabble and the games kept growing and changing as Rocio, then Andrew, than Paul joined us, while the kids watched The Simpsons on DVD. We ordered pizza and had a small festival with the 6 adults and 5 kids of us. The adults loved our first ever Papa Murphy's Chicago Stuffed pizza. Pablo shared a bottle of wine from Elk Cove, and we tried to guess the vineyard, since we'd tried all their offerings the night before. We got that it was a red, but our eyes were open.
Andrew had William, Matias, and Kyle over for an extended period of Halo2 and then actual outdoor soccer up at the school. I set out random food at them for lunch and got rid of some leftovers. Yardwork kept me busy until I got tired around 4:00 and went to see Pablo for some mate'. We played Scrabble and the games kept growing and changing as Rocio, then Andrew, than Paul joined us, while the kids watched The Simpsons on DVD. We ordered pizza and had a small festival with the 6 adults and 5 kids of us. The adults loved our first ever Papa Murphy's Chicago Stuffed pizza. Pablo shared a bottle of wine from Elk Cove, and we tried to guess the vineyard, since we'd tried all their offerings the night before. We got that it was a red, but our eyes were open.
Saturday, May 20, 2006
Saturday with Zoë and Hannah
Andrew went to the doctor for his toe yesterday, and goes in again to get his (half) toenail chopped off on Wednesday. It is not bothering him much now, since the infection is gone. He's ready and eager to start soccer practice Monday.
Tonight we're headed to the Elk Cove Winery for their Roosevelt Club Spring Dinner, with Pablo, Rocio, Paul, and Nancy.
We have Zoë and Hannah for the day. They're outside with Mali now, playing badminton. I'm headed out to plant the mini dahlias I got with Mali at the Beaverton Farmer's Market last Saturday. Now they're blooming.
Tonight we're headed to the Elk Cove Winery for their Roosevelt Club Spring Dinner, with Pablo, Rocio, Paul, and Nancy.
We have Zoë and Hannah for the day. They're outside with Mali now, playing badminton. I'm headed out to plant the mini dahlias I got with Mali at the Beaverton Farmer's Market last Saturday. Now they're blooming.
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
Monday, May 15, 2006
Monday News: Andrew's Toe
Monday news: Andrew's toe is still a mess, and he's back on antibiotics. We we will be scheduling surgery soon.
Also just added photos to Andrew's birthday post below.
Also just added photos to Andrew's birthday post below.
Sunday, May 14, 2006
Mother's Day - Oregon
OregonMom got to spend much of today in bed. I enjoyed working in the yard (really) as temperatures rose to the mid-80's. I planted snow peas, tomatoes, and basil, and trimmed a tree to let more sunlight into the garden. I also worked in a little badminton with Mali and Andrew. They played more while I worked. Afterwards I shared a mate' with Pablo out on his driveway while we attempted to read our books. I'm finally reading The Da Vinci Code. Andrew just finished it. The weather is beautiful here. It is predicted to hit the mid-90's Tuesday, before cooling off again.
After mate', we (us plus PR&M) went to our (Susy and my) favorite Thai restaurant, the nearby Thai Flavor. The kids loved the chicken wontons, and Mali loved their sweet and sour chicken. Susy and I could eat their lettuce wraps every day. We all staggered home, overfull of yummy food.
After mate', we (us plus PR&M) went to our (Susy and my) favorite Thai restaurant, the nearby Thai Flavor. The kids loved the chicken wontons, and Mali loved their sweet and sour chicken. Susy and I could eat their lettuce wraps every day. We all staggered home, overfull of yummy food.
Mother's Day - Helsinki
Happy Mother's Day, Mom!
Happy Day to mothers everywhere, but especially to OregonDad's Mother, who is off across the water as half of the travelling WashingtonGrandparents. They are out of Russia and the ancient land of Borscht, and now are in the clean bright lines of Helsinki.
OregonDad'sMom (aka GrandmaSue) describes a church blasted out of granite. From the internet, I learn it is called The Temppeliaukion and has amazing acoustics. Thanks to the wonder of Flickr, I can find pictures. Here's a nice one of the interior, from Mr Lo. Apparently (no pictures) the outside is not so much to look at, except for a huge copper dome, which you can see from the inside here:
Happy Day to mothers everywhere, but especially to OregonDad's Mother, who is off across the water as half of the travelling WashingtonGrandparents. They are out of Russia and the ancient land of Borscht, and now are in the clean bright lines of Helsinki.
OregonDad'sMom (aka GrandmaSue) describes a church blasted out of granite. From the internet, I learn it is called The Temppeliaukion and has amazing acoustics. Thanks to the wonder of Flickr, I can find pictures. Here's a nice one of the interior, from Mr Lo. Apparently (no pictures) the outside is not so much to look at, except for a huge copper dome, which you can see from the inside here:
Saturday, May 13, 2006
Andrew's Birthday Party
Andrew's birthday party was a great success. It began with bowling and pizza with:
Carly, Jonathan, Kyle, Marcus, Matias, Tiana, William, and OregonDadMom&Sister, and Tsulan hung out with us for awhile too. PostPizza there was a Cold-Stone ice cream cake, chocolate of course. PostBowling there was air-hockey and DDR.
PostBowlingAlley the party continued with Matias, Kyle, and William at OregonHome and the badminton set William gave Andrew. Pablo and Rocio came over and we started up the new chiminaya. PostParty Andrew and I played Scrabble at Pablo and Rocio's while Matias played DJ for us with his iPod.
Pictures!
Andrew Works the Machine:
Serious Gunplay:
Andrew Opens, Marcus and Carly watch.
Carly, Jonathan, Kyle, Marcus, Matias, Tiana, William, and OregonDadMom&Sister, and Tsulan hung out with us for awhile too. PostPizza there was a Cold-Stone ice cream cake, chocolate of course. PostBowling there was air-hockey and DDR.
PostBowlingAlley the party continued with Matias, Kyle, and William at OregonHome and the badminton set William gave Andrew. Pablo and Rocio came over and we started up the new chiminaya. PostParty Andrew and I played Scrabble at Pablo and Rocio's while Matias played DJ for us with his iPod.
Pictures!
Andrew Works the Machine:
Serious Gunplay:
Andrew Opens, Marcus and Carly watch.
Friday, May 12, 2006
Friday
Andrew's toe is bad again. We'll check it tonight. The Oregon Relays are tomorrow, followed by his birthday party - Bowling and pizza.
Thursday, May 11, 2006
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
Soccer Tryouts II
The weather was better last night for the second day of classic soccer tryouts. Andrew and Matias did okay, but not as well as Sunday. We should know by tonight if they've made the team.
Mali had Sara over after school yesterday. They started working on Mali's video project for school: A Day in the Life of Mali.
Here they are reviewing footage:
Mali had Sara over after school yesterday. They started working on Mali's video project for school: A Day in the Life of Mali.
Here they are reviewing footage:
Monday, May 08, 2006
Soccer Tryouts
U-14 tryouts for Aloha classic soccer were yesterday. Andrew and Matias did well. Matias was a bit gimpy still from his Italian car accident. I was worried about Andrew's play after watching his sister repeatedly pick him clean up at the school Saturday.
BUT: They both came through, Andrew back to his standard quick-footed steals, sprints, and classy passes; and Matias partnering with the ball in their old dance, throwing in a couple of nice headers as well. Now, I am fairly confident they'll make the team. There is one more day of tryouts tomorrow night.
Hopefully the weather will improve. Yesterday was wet and windy, and no one was warm. Andrew found a hot shower immediately after the Mom-update on our return, and I crossed the street to drink mate' and play Scrabble at Pablo's while the rains fell.
Note: Mali's been updating her blog: http://www.xanga.com/pinkypox
BUT: They both came through, Andrew back to his standard quick-footed steals, sprints, and classy passes; and Matias partnering with the ball in their old dance, throwing in a couple of nice headers as well. Now, I am fairly confident they'll make the team. There is one more day of tryouts tomorrow night.
Hopefully the weather will improve. Yesterday was wet and windy, and no one was warm. Andrew found a hot shower immediately after the Mom-update on our return, and I crossed the street to drink mate' and play Scrabble at Pablo's while the rains fell.
Note: Mali's been updating her blog: http://www.xanga.com/pinkypox
Sunday, May 07, 2006
DinnersDoneRight, And: Our Canadians Return
I returned from Redmond/Kirkland and work and my monthly poker game at 10:00 Saturday. Everyone was still hanging out in the big bed. Andrew didn't want to go to the Sandy track meet - over an hour away and he was only going to run the 200, so we called Pablo and he made an appointment for us all to go to DinnersDoneRight. This is a new business that offers frozen dinners: You go and select some amount of dinners (each serving 4-6 people) from their May menu and create them there. We went in together on their package of 12 dinners for $170 so that we each only have to hide 6 meals in our freezer.
Each dish has a station where the ingredients are all layed out with easy instructions. Some are easier than others: The Maple-Mustard Glazed Balsamic Flank steak was simple. The Dijon pork chops were difficult because they were frozen, so didn't take to the breading easily. The Sicilian Meat Roll was messy, but Mali loved it. That was the last one, and Mali said, "I don't want to be done!" She had a great time. Andrew missed out and stayed home.
It was almost like a cooking class, in that we made things we don't normally do, with people there to help out. Pablo's favorite part is that they come around and clean up after you make each dish. Mine is that it is relatively inexpensive and that we don't mess up our own kitchen. Now we've got plenty of meals in the freezer to supplement our weekday standards of pizza, storebought rotisserie chicken, and Subway.
Last night we had dinner at Pablo's, where we tried out one of our two Sicilian Meat Rolls and their Roast Bacon Wrapped Pork, since they weren't already frozen. Nancy brought a salad, Susy made a blueberry pie, Mali made a small strawberry pie, and Alana brought cheese enchiladas and Lemondrops. Everything was great, though I did not get to taste Mali's delicious-looking strawberry mini-pie. The event was just a typical Saturday get together, enhanced by Wednesday's return from Ontario of a still slightly jet-lagged Paul, Nancy, Zoë, and Hannah.
Each dish has a station where the ingredients are all layed out with easy instructions. Some are easier than others: The Maple-Mustard Glazed Balsamic Flank steak was simple. The Dijon pork chops were difficult because they were frozen, so didn't take to the breading easily. The Sicilian Meat Roll was messy, but Mali loved it. That was the last one, and Mali said, "I don't want to be done!" She had a great time. Andrew missed out and stayed home.
It was almost like a cooking class, in that we made things we don't normally do, with people there to help out. Pablo's favorite part is that they come around and clean up after you make each dish. Mine is that it is relatively inexpensive and that we don't mess up our own kitchen. Now we've got plenty of meals in the freezer to supplement our weekday standards of pizza, storebought rotisserie chicken, and Subway.
Last night we had dinner at Pablo's, where we tried out one of our two Sicilian Meat Rolls and their Roast Bacon Wrapped Pork, since they weren't already frozen. Nancy brought a salad, Susy made a blueberry pie, Mali made a small strawberry pie, and Alana brought cheese enchiladas and Lemondrops. Everything was great, though I did not get to taste Mali's delicious-looking strawberry mini-pie. The event was just a typical Saturday get together, enhanced by Wednesday's return from Ontario of a still slightly jet-lagged Paul, Nancy, Zoë, and Hannah.
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
Portland Farmer's Market
We went to the Portland Farmer's Market Saturday with Pablo and Rocio. I ate too much - lots of almond paste tasties. We also bought two dwarf blueberry bushes that have yet to be planted.
Here's some pictures: One posed (with another behind it), and one of Andrew and Mali tearing the place up.
Here's some pictures: One posed (with another behind it), and one of Andrew and Mali tearing the place up.
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Sunday's garden.
Sunday, Mali and I built her garden. Before 11:00 we had moved two huge rocks, and I had put a hole in my backyard sprinkler main. We went off to Home Depot to buy repair equipment and plants and dirt for the garden. Yesterday after school, Mali added the birdbath, seen below. Click to see the garden.
Monday, April 24, 2006
First Track Meet of 2006
Saturday was sunny but windy for Andrew's track meet at nearby Sherwood High School. It was a long meet, partly because it was the first one, so they explained how to start to every athlete for every race. Here's a photo of Andrew receiving instruction. Click it to see the actual race start.
Susy met us there to watch the 400m (1:11.66). He also ran the 100m (14.xx?) We all got a little sun on our faces - everything else was covered because of the wind.
Andrew and I were gone from 9:00 to 3:00. I came home and took a nap, and Andrew embedded himself into the couch with his book. I slept until 4:00, then worked in the yard a bit with Mali. She found Pablo and Matias walking next to the house, so we talked across the fence until I invited myself over to their house for Mate'. The rest of my family followed me over. Rocio is painting, so I helped a little, drank some mate', and looked at some photos from their trip to Italy. Then they had a dinner date with some friends (which we made them late for), so we came home and finished watching The Fellowship of the Ring. Two more movies to go. The two I haven't seen yet, so that is exciting. Mali is less then thrilled by them (they're scary) but she's watching - ensconced firmly between Susy and me.
Susy met us there to watch the 400m (1:11.66). He also ran the 100m (14.xx?) We all got a little sun on our faces - everything else was covered because of the wind.
Andrew and I were gone from 9:00 to 3:00. I came home and took a nap, and Andrew embedded himself into the couch with his book. I slept until 4:00, then worked in the yard a bit with Mali. She found Pablo and Matias walking next to the house, so we talked across the fence until I invited myself over to their house for Mate'. The rest of my family followed me over. Rocio is painting, so I helped a little, drank some mate', and looked at some photos from their trip to Italy. Then they had a dinner date with some friends (which we made them late for), so we came home and finished watching The Fellowship of the Ring. Two more movies to go. The two I haven't seen yet, so that is exciting. Mali is less then thrilled by them (they're scary) but she's watching - ensconced firmly between Susy and me.
Saturday, April 22, 2006
Oliver
I wanted something different, so I dragged the kids, kicking and groaning, to see Oliver at Beaverton High School last night.
(Kicking and groaning - too flip. Delaying and moaning. I got up from dinner and cruelly announced we would be leaving in two minutes whether they were done or not, and went upstairs to change. Andrew's lament followed us upstairs: "You mean I ate all these soybeans for nothing!" He had amassed quite a pile of empty husks. Mali is the queen of delay or disappear. She began industriously delaying before dinner even started, taking forever finding condiments - honey that would pour - before even starting her dinner. Honey (really!) being the crucial ingredient in her secret sauce of tartar and ketchup, used for french fries and fish sticks.)
It was probably fairly typical of large High School plays: Their new sound system was good, but it was work to hear/understand the dialogue. A couple of the singers were very good. Oliver and The Artful Dodger were played by girls. Fagin (Aidan Beers) was my favorite, both acting and singing, and the girl playing Nancy had fun beautifully singing what seemed like every other song. I think because so many of the other numbers were forgettable. (Wow, I could be a mean critic.) Actually, I think it was very good for a high school show. The girl playing Oliver had a decent enough voice, but she disappeared on the stage, and the Dodger was barely there too. Fagin was great though.
The house was full for the final night. The parents, grandparents, teachers, and students in the audience were very enthusiastic. Andrew and Mali's reaction was mixed. They liked some of it, but it was long - Two and a half hours. There was candy and popcorn for sale before and during intermission, but it was not allowed in the theater. I'm sure that would have helped. Still, why can't the show be enough? They would have rather stayed home and watched TV. Stuffing experiences into children never seems to work out at the time. I remember reading across the country, and the billboard that announced we were in Gettysburg. We'll see what they remember five years from now.
(Kicking and groaning - too flip. Delaying and moaning. I got up from dinner and cruelly announced we would be leaving in two minutes whether they were done or not, and went upstairs to change. Andrew's lament followed us upstairs: "You mean I ate all these soybeans for nothing!" He had amassed quite a pile of empty husks. Mali is the queen of delay or disappear. She began industriously delaying before dinner even started, taking forever finding condiments - honey that would pour - before even starting her dinner. Honey (really!) being the crucial ingredient in her secret sauce of tartar and ketchup, used for french fries and fish sticks.)
It was probably fairly typical of large High School plays: Their new sound system was good, but it was work to hear/understand the dialogue. A couple of the singers were very good. Oliver and The Artful Dodger were played by girls. Fagin (Aidan Beers) was my favorite, both acting and singing, and the girl playing Nancy had fun beautifully singing what seemed like every other song. I think because so many of the other numbers were forgettable. (Wow, I could be a mean critic.) Actually, I think it was very good for a high school show. The girl playing Oliver had a decent enough voice, but she disappeared on the stage, and the Dodger was barely there too. Fagin was great though.
The house was full for the final night. The parents, grandparents, teachers, and students in the audience were very enthusiastic. Andrew and Mali's reaction was mixed. They liked some of it, but it was long - Two and a half hours. There was candy and popcorn for sale before and during intermission, but it was not allowed in the theater. I'm sure that would have helped. Still, why can't the show be enough? They would have rather stayed home and watched TV. Stuffing experiences into children never seems to work out at the time. I remember reading across the country, and the billboard that announced we were in Gettysburg. We'll see what they remember five years from now.
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Oysters!
Last night I grilled oysters for the first time. Very exciting. Grandpa Del harvested them for me on Easter. (Stock Photo of similar, but messier event)
Pablo came over to help me eat them. They turned out really good, except for the handful that didn't open soon enough and turned into carbon. We got enough, and Andrew even ate one!
Afterwards, Pablo and I went to Paul's to play scrabble with his friend Phil, who stopped by on his way to Davis, CA from Canada. Paul crushed us.
Pablo came over to help me eat them. They turned out really good, except for the handful that didn't open soon enough and turned into carbon. We got enough, and Andrew even ate one!
Afterwards, Pablo and I went to Paul's to play scrabble with his friend Phil, who stopped by on his way to Davis, CA from Canada. Paul crushed us.
Toe Update
Andrew has antibiotics for his very slight toe infection. The doctor very gently pulled the toenail away from the skin. Hopefully it will stay that way, and there will be no cutting involved.
Tuesday, April 18, 2006
Toe Problems
Andrew has a slightly ingrown toenail, which he noticed at track practice last night. It may be infected. We're taking it, and the rest of him, to the doctor this afternoon.
Monday, April 17, 2006
Easter
Fun at Grandma and Grandpa's. All the brothers and families and Mary and Amy = 12 adults and 6 kids. More photos at http://www.flickr.com/photos/oregondad/
Here's Andrew and Mali with our freshly colored eggs, Easter Eve.
Susy finds a new baby to hold: Cooper!
Here's Andrew and Mali with our freshly colored eggs, Easter Eve.
Susy finds a new baby to hold: Cooper!
Thursday, April 13, 2006
Back from class
I've been away in Bellevue at an Oracle class by the brilliant Jonathan Lewis. I met some interesting people with interesting jobs (Starbucks, Amazon, Seattle Times). I stayed with David and Susan and Dalton and Rylin, and actually got to have some fun with the kids this time around. Rylin and I played "Easter Pinecone Hunt," making the Momma and Baby pinecones happy by rescuing them from the yard and sending them into their forest home. After each batch she would jump around screaming "I win! I win!" Dalton was a happy kid, building and rebuilding a paper pirate ship.
I'm home now, and dealing with a crisis in San Jose. Except for possible crisis management, I'm on vacation Friday, since the kids are out of school. Saturday we head up to G&G's place for Easter Sunday!
I'm home now, and dealing with a crisis in San Jose. Except for possible crisis management, I'm on vacation Friday, since the kids are out of school. Saturday we head up to G&G's place for Easter Sunday!
Sunday, April 09, 2006
Kidless Saturday Night
Sleepovers!
Mali at at Natalie's birthday party.
Andrew at Kyle's.
Freedom found us using a two year old gift certificate at Stanford's, and going to see V for Vendetta. We liked it.
Andrew's home now. Mali's gone to see Zoë's baptism.
Mali at at Natalie's birthday party.
Andrew at Kyle's.
Freedom found us using a two year old gift certificate at Stanford's, and going to see V for Vendetta. We liked it.
Andrew's home now. Mali's gone to see Zoë's baptism.
Saturday, April 08, 2006
Science Fair
Here's a photo of Mali with her project "Plant Survivors" at the science fair. She planted three sets of beans and used cold, room-temp, and hot water to water them.
Thursday, April 06, 2006
Thursday conflicts
Tonight we have Mali's science fair and Andrew's Track meeting, both starting at 6:00. I will dash around madly to attend both. I just need to swing by the track meeting to pick up the schedule and uniform. I can't miss the science fair, since we haven't yet seen Mali's exhibit, other than the bits of it she made at home.
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
Wednesday Night
After a thrilling dinner of a Costco pork roast, green beans, and toast, Susy, Andrew, and I played cribbage while Mali whipped up a cream cheese brownie. Andrew won the game after being behind the entire time. Then I destroyed my diet with three helpings of Mali's delicious brownie with whipped cream while Susy made a sugar free chocolate pudding that I should have held out for.
Spring Break Summary
Hi Irene!
The kids had a great time in Washington with grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Grandpa gave them an education in pouring cement and card playing, and the weekend saw all the cousins visiting.
Las Vegas was good to Susy and me. We saw Cirque du Soleil's Ka on Thursday night and absolutely loved it. I swear I watched half of it with my mouth wide open. More than worth the $150 ticket price. Friday we went to the buffet at the Wynn, which was delicious. Friday night we gambled: I won a very quick $115 playing craps, then Susy and I stretched out blackjack for a couple of hours, ending up $150 ahead for the evening (so one ticket to Ka.) Saturday we saw the Blue Man Group, which was fascinating and Very different. The days were filled with some serious napping.
Now we're home, and back to work. Mali went on a field trip to the Bonneville Dam today. Other than that, life has returned to normal here.
The kids had a great time in Washington with grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Grandpa gave them an education in pouring cement and card playing, and the weekend saw all the cousins visiting.
Las Vegas was good to Susy and me. We saw Cirque du Soleil's Ka on Thursday night and absolutely loved it. I swear I watched half of it with my mouth wide open. More than worth the $150 ticket price. Friday we went to the buffet at the Wynn, which was delicious. Friday night we gambled: I won a very quick $115 playing craps, then Susy and I stretched out blackjack for a couple of hours, ending up $150 ahead for the evening (so one ticket to Ka.) Saturday we saw the Blue Man Group, which was fascinating and Very different. The days were filled with some serious napping.
Now we're home, and back to work. Mali went on a field trip to the Bonneville Dam today. Other than that, life has returned to normal here.
Tuesday, March 28, 2006
Spring Break
I should have got a picture of them pulling up the front-yard ivy. I will next time - plenty of ivy remains. Instead I photographed them playing Stratego after lunch. Click pictures for close ups.
Tomorrow we drive to Washington to see Grandma and Grandpa and drop of the kids, then Thursday Susy and I fly to Las Vegas!
Tomorrow we drive to Washington to see Grandma and Grandpa and drop of the kids, then Thursday Susy and I fly to Las Vegas!
Thursday, March 23, 2006
OregonMom's Birthday
To celebrate Susy's birthday, we went to dinner at the Cheesecake Factory. Over half the order sits leftover in our fridge. The portions are a little large. Andrew ate almost half a hamburger, and Mali had maybe one tenth of her angel hair pasta. Susy and I managed about half of our dinners, and then all four of us split one piece of peanut-butter fudge cheesecake.
We went to Teavana next door while we waited for dinner. Susy wanted to get some Irish Breakfast tea, and I needed some Maté, which I am now drinking. We came home and watched another episode of Gilmore Girls, as is our routine. Susy said it was a perfect birthday, starting at 2:40 -- the actual time of her birth, and about the time she came home from work and started her nap.
We went to Teavana next door while we waited for dinner. Susy wanted to get some Irish Breakfast tea, and I needed some Maté, which I am now drinking. We came home and watched another episode of Gilmore Girls, as is our routine. Susy said it was a perfect birthday, starting at 2:40 -- the actual time of her birth, and about the time she came home from work and started her nap.
Sunday, March 19, 2006
Auction
Last night Alana treated our neighborhood group to dinner at the Thomas Edison H.S. auction, where her kids attend. It's an upscale event where lots of money is spent. Our group was on the frugal side, but we managed to hold our own. Here's a photo of our most interesting purchase, soon to find a home in our yard.
St. Patrick's Day
Mali made her St. Patrick's Day Leprachaun trap at home, since they didn't get to make one at school this year. Usually they are elaborite RubeGoldmanesque constructions. See below for this year's attempt.
Actually, this is a slight reconstruction, as the trap was rebuilt for the photo session after being triggered during the night by "Leppy". Leppy left footprints (some seen above) and a note, reading:
Dear Mali,
Your gonna have to do better than that to catch me. I gave you some candy for trying.
Sincerely,
Leppy
Mali did notice that candy from Leppy matched some seen previously on a dining room shelf. There was also a mysterious similarity between Leppy's handwriting and that of her brother...
Actually, this is a slight reconstruction, as the trap was rebuilt for the photo session after being triggered during the night by "Leppy". Leppy left footprints (some seen above) and a note, reading:
Dear Mali,
Your gonna have to do better than that to catch me. I gave you some candy for trying.
Sincerely,
Leppy
Mali did notice that candy from Leppy matched some seen previously on a dining room shelf. There was also a mysterious similarity between Leppy's handwriting and that of her brother...
Tuesday, March 14, 2006
Summa day.
Not a lot of details. When asked, Andrew showed me the tree picture he made in first period. The kids were illustrating poems they wrote. Matias complained about his math class. I had him show me the controversial method their teacher is using for solving quadratics, and it made no sense to me. I may teach Andrew (and Matias) algebra over the Summer so that Andrew can skip it and go into geometry. Or not. We'll see.
Off to Summa!
Susy drove Andrew and Matias to Summa this morning. School starts at 7:30 for them. Andrew is "shadowing" Matias today. Details to follow.
Sunday, March 12, 2006
Last Basketball Game of the Season
Mali had her final game of the season yesterday. She played great, scoring three baskets, two in her final quarter. She had several rebounds, and enjoyed a chance to play point guard, which seemed to fire her up.
Her end-of-season party is tonight at Godfather's Pizza.
Her end-of-season party is tonight at Godfather's Pizza.
Deal, No Deal
Paul brilliantly imagined a "Deal, no Deal" game show with the kids, and we implemented it last night along with a pot-luck dinner at the S' house. A's were also there, along with Doug, Erin, and Natalie (Natalie was also at Mali's birthday party.)
Deal, No Deal is an interesting game of decision making, where the player plays against a banker to try and make the most money from a random selection of 26 cards indicating dollar values of $0.01 to $1 Million. The adults involved in our game last night agreed to offer a top stake of $100.
After the player makes a choice, but no one knows what it is, the player then selects six other cards for viewing. After all six are viewed, the banker than makes an offer based on the average of the remaining cards.
For a better description, check out Wikipedia's article.
(I just did, and also discovered the fascinating Monty Hall Problem.)
Our game allowed for one family member per round. Andrew was our representative, and got the banker all the way up to $26, but continued on, picking the $75 and $100 cards in his next two choices, and settling for a payout of $5. Matias was the biggest winner, getting $33.
It was a lot of fun cheering the kids on. The kids not playing helped run the show. Andrew even played the host (otherwise Paul) for Hannah's turn. Pablo and I played the banker, except when it was our kid's turn.
Deal, No Deal is an interesting game of decision making, where the player plays against a banker to try and make the most money from a random selection of 26 cards indicating dollar values of $0.01 to $1 Million. The adults involved in our game last night agreed to offer a top stake of $100.
After the player makes a choice, but no one knows what it is, the player then selects six other cards for viewing. After all six are viewed, the banker than makes an offer based on the average of the remaining cards.
For a better description, check out Wikipedia's article.
(I just did, and also discovered the fascinating Monty Hall Problem.)
Our game allowed for one family member per round. Andrew was our representative, and got the banker all the way up to $26, but continued on, picking the $75 and $100 cards in his next two choices, and settling for a payout of $5. Matias was the biggest winner, getting $33.
It was a lot of fun cheering the kids on. The kids not playing helped run the show. Andrew even played the host (otherwise Paul) for Hannah's turn. Pablo and I played the banker, except when it was our kid's turn.
Friday, March 10, 2006
Mali's Birthday Party
Mali's birthday party is in mid-swing. I'm hiding in my office, looking at photos.
The bear sings a happy birthday song. He has been the running joke of the evening.
Andrew is entertained, and has been entertaining, hosting a scavanger hunt. There's been a lot of laughing. Now they're all watching a movie.
Rachel, Zoë, Savannah, and Natalie watch Mali open. Not pictured: Sara.
Mali conducts another birthday song.
Another great cake from Susy.
The bear sings a happy birthday song. He has been the running joke of the evening.
Andrew is entertained, and has been entertaining, hosting a scavanger hunt. There's been a lot of laughing. Now they're all watching a movie.
Rachel, Zoë, Savannah, and Natalie watch Mali open. Not pictured: Sara.
Mali conducts another birthday song.
Another great cake from Susy.
Thursday, March 09, 2006
Snow!
Andrew got a two hour delay this morning, courtesy the surprise snowfall. Mali and I built the snowman before he was even awake. It has been snowing hard all day, but the warmth prevents the massive accumulation we always hope for.
Tuesday, March 07, 2006
Mali's Birthday, Take 1
Mali conducts her birthday song, then poses before blowing out the candles on her traditional birthday donut.
Monday, March 06, 2006
Mali Turns Ten!
Today is Mali's Tenth birthday! Few plans: spaghetti dinner, followed by the traditional birthday donut and a present or two. The Big party is Friday.
Last night we went to dinner at Alana's with the neighborhood crowd and watched the Oscars. Jon Stewart was my big draw, and I thought he was great. Mali found the whole thing boring.
Last night we went to dinner at Alana's with the neighborhood crowd and watched the Oscars. Jon Stewart was my big draw, and I thought he was great. Mali found the whole thing boring.
Sunday, March 05, 2006
Forced March
Mali's team played a terrific basketball game: They tied 17-17, and Mali had a great basket and some super defense.
Afterwards, Mali and I went for a walk with Nancy and Tinkerbell (her oft-pregnant schnauzer). It started small, but we ended up inadvertently going all the way up Cooper Mountain - about 4 miles total, a lot uphill. We stopped at William's, originally thinking that Andrew might still be there, but finally just settling for civilization. We found Larry there alone, and convinced him to give us a ride home.
Afterwards, Mali and I went for a walk with Nancy and Tinkerbell (her oft-pregnant schnauzer). It started small, but we ended up inadvertently going all the way up Cooper Mountain - about 4 miles total, a lot uphill. We stopped at William's, originally thinking that Andrew might still be there, but finally just settling for civilization. We found Larry there alone, and convinced him to give us a ride home.
Saturday, March 04, 2006
Weekend
A Very Long week finally arrives at its end. Work has kept Susy and I very busy.
Mali has been wound up over her birthday. Apparently there is a long To Do list waiting for me today to prepare for her sleepover party on Friday. I only know one item: put up her new curtains and curtain rod.
Andrew is spending the night at William's. We had dinner last night with his family. Theresa got very excited over Mali's new sewing kick and gave her some patterns and fabric.
Today Mali has a basketball game against the best team in the league, and the kids all know it. Details will follow.
Mali has been wound up over her birthday. Apparently there is a long To Do list waiting for me today to prepare for her sleepover party on Friday. I only know one item: put up her new curtains and curtain rod.
Andrew is spending the night at William's. We had dinner last night with his family. Theresa got very excited over Mali's new sewing kick and gave her some patterns and fabric.
Today Mali has a basketball game against the best team in the league, and the kids all know it. Details will follow.
Wednesday, March 01, 2006
Sunshine!
That's all. It's just been awhile since I saw it here.
I guess there is a little more:
Susy was up all night working, but now is staying home, and this afternoon we go to the Portland Art Museum's after hours concert, tonight featuring Soul Vaccination.
I guess there is a little more:
Susy was up all night working, but now is staying home, and this afternoon we go to the Portland Art Museum's after hours concert, tonight featuring Soul Vaccination.
Tuesday, February 28, 2006
Normal
Home from the mountain. Work and school and homework and dinner and Gilmore girls and bed.
Mali wrote a play from a book Susy gave her, and Andrew typed it up for her.
Mali wrote a play from a book Susy gave her, and Andrew typed it up for her.
Monday, February 27, 2006
10 inches of new snow
While we play poker, Whistler gets eight inches of the lightest powder I've ever seen. Two more while we ski. Visibility gets tricky around noon, and soon my legs want to drop off my body. I know this because they tell me so, loudly.
Saturday, February 25, 2006
Skiing
A good day on the mountain. Cold though. Sunshine in the morning.
We left a little early, and spent the afternoon in the Westin's hot tub (courtesy Bob's Mountain Club) and then at Earl's, drinking and enjoying the views. Now everyone is napping. Poker at 7:00.
We left a little early, and spent the afternoon in the Westin's hot tub (courtesy Bob's Mountain Club) and then at Earl's, drinking and enjoying the views. Now everyone is napping. Poker at 7:00.
Friday, February 24, 2006
Whistler
I am here, safely ensconced in Bob and Meg's condo. Bob and co. went tubing, but I'm relaxing and catching up. Tomorrow we ski. No new snow here, but tomorrow promises sunshine and fun.
Update: After tubers return we go to Dublin's Gate pub for dinner, then return to play Hearts where I win a close game after getting a perfect hand and taking all tricks.
Update: After tubers return we go to Dublin's Gate pub for dinner, then return to play Hearts where I win a close game after getting a perfect hand and taking all tricks.
Thursday, February 23, 2006
Off like a dirty shirt
I'm heading up to Bellevue, then to Whistler for my weekend of skiing and poker.
Kids are coming up with restaurants to go to in my absence.
Kids are coming up with restaurants to go to in my absence.
Tuesday, February 21, 2006
President's Day II
The museum trip turned chaotic very quickly. We all saw a marvelous old carriage, with technologically cutting-edge leather suspension and a coat-of-arms on the door. Then Susy got a phone call from work and had to leave to come home and get on her computer so she could explain things to people. The kids and I wandered the museum, meeting back up with Pablo and Co. at closing. There wasn't room for all of us in Pablo's car, so Mali and I rode the Max back to Bellevue, which was fun and different.
We had dinner at Paul and Nancy's. Hot dogs for the kids, and Paul made a delicious chicken curry for the adults and Matias. Pablo brought a great spinach salad, and Nancy made peanut butter and jelly cookies out of the S. Beach diet cookbook, and the adults were each allowed two (= one serving). Nancy hid the plate after I stole a third. I appreciate that now.
We had dinner at Paul and Nancy's. Hot dogs for the kids, and Paul made a delicious chicken curry for the adults and Matias. Pablo brought a great spinach salad, and Nancy made peanut butter and jelly cookies out of the S. Beach diet cookbook, and the adults were each allowed two (= one serving). Nancy hid the plate after I stole a third. I appreciate that now.
Monday, February 20, 2006
President's Day
To celebrate President's Day we are going to the Portland Art Museum with Pablo, Rocio, and Matias. Susy is on her way home from work now, and we'll soon be out the door. Free tickets today, courtesty of Fred Meyer.
Last night was dinner at Pablo and Rocio's: a delicious roast pork with apple compote. Alana brought a great salad, and Susy made little chocolate bombs that we ate with raspberries and whipped cream and ice cream. All good. Then we watched an episode from season 2 of the British The Office. It always makes me squirm.
Last night was dinner at Pablo and Rocio's: a delicious roast pork with apple compote. Alana brought a great salad, and Susy made little chocolate bombs that we ate with raspberries and whipped cream and ice cream. All good. Then we watched an episode from season 2 of the British The Office. It always makes me squirm.
Saturday, February 18, 2006
Basketball victory!
Mali's basketball team had a great game today. Mali scored the first basket on a putback, laughing later because it was so easy. Andrew came with us and and watched, and Susy made it there from work in time to see the entire game.
Susy has to work again tomorrow, with a 7:30 AM meeting to start her day.
Hooray! We were just invited over to Alana's for chile.
Susy has to work again tomorrow, with a 7:30 AM meeting to start her day.
Hooray! We were just invited over to Alana's for chile.
Friday, February 17, 2006
Valentine's Day
A little late, but here's the story:
Mali brought a large, heart-shaped mug filled with chocolate coffee beans to her teacher, and of course a Valentine for each kid in her class. They had an hour-long party at the end of the day, but nothing amazing happened.
Andrew brought Valentines for the folks who sit at his table at lunch. Nothing special.
Susy got cards for the kids, and gave them a little note worth $10 at Moonstruck Chocolates. We went there last night after dinner at Subway and the kids got milkshakes.
I cooked dinner on Valentine's Day: Chicken stuffed with spinach and goat cheese. It was pretty good. The kids picked out all the spinach, but Andrew at least liked the cheese.
Mali brought a large, heart-shaped mug filled with chocolate coffee beans to her teacher, and of course a Valentine for each kid in her class. They had an hour-long party at the end of the day, but nothing amazing happened.
Andrew brought Valentines for the folks who sit at his table at lunch. Nothing special.
Susy got cards for the kids, and gave them a little note worth $10 at Moonstruck Chocolates. We went there last night after dinner at Subway and the kids got milkshakes.
I cooked dinner on Valentine's Day: Chicken stuffed with spinach and goat cheese. It was pretty good. The kids picked out all the spinach, but Andrew at least liked the cheese.
Sunday, February 12, 2006
Burning Thumb.
We had the neighbors (A's and S's) over for a South Beach dinner Saturday night. Susy made a wonderful chicken and eggplant dish, similar to an eggplant parmeson. Pablo made a delicious curried tomato soup that he was sure was too bland but was really very good, and Paul made a wine-poached pear salad that was delicious too.
The big event of the evening Occurred just before Paul, Nancy and the girls arrived. Susy ventured into the oven to remove the broiling eggplants, and brushed the oven mitt on the burner without realizing it. She then removed the mitt without looking. Neither of us realized the mitt had started burning and melting, and she pulled it off with her thumb on the melting part, covering her thumb with melting polyester, or whatever the fabric is. It took us a minute to figure out what was going on, so her thumb got badly burned before we got some cold water on it. She thought she had just touched a hot part of the mitt, and couldn't figure out why it wouldn't stop hurting. The melting fabric was clear and difficult to see. It wasn't until I saw the mitt, burning and smoldering, that we knew it was bad.
Dinner went on, but she did keep her thumb in ice all evening. Paul nicely brought some French-Canadian burn ointment, which Susy was sure the non-sting claims had been mistranslated.
The big event of the evening Occurred just before Paul, Nancy and the girls arrived. Susy ventured into the oven to remove the broiling eggplants, and brushed the oven mitt on the burner without realizing it. She then removed the mitt without looking. Neither of us realized the mitt had started burning and melting, and she pulled it off with her thumb on the melting part, covering her thumb with melting polyester, or whatever the fabric is. It took us a minute to figure out what was going on, so her thumb got badly burned before we got some cold water on it. She thought she had just touched a hot part of the mitt, and couldn't figure out why it wouldn't stop hurting. The melting fabric was clear and difficult to see. It wasn't until I saw the mitt, burning and smoldering, that we knew it was bad.
Dinner went on, but she did keep her thumb in ice all evening. Paul nicely brought some French-Canadian burn ointment, which Susy was sure the non-sting claims had been mistranslated.
Thursday, February 09, 2006
Trouble
Mali and I got thrown out of the school gym today. I was expecting it, but she was quite shocked. I told her we'd go see if we could sneak in and play some basketball, and we did, without any actual sneaking. Then the monitor from the Y showed up and was puzzled by us, but let us play for awhile, then finally told us we weren't supposed to be there. Mali ran to the nearest exit. I told her to wait, and she did, but the minute I turned she was out the back door.
We got a good half hour of practice in. She finally did a layup correctly, hopefully she'll do it again. She is getting better.
We got Andrew's application to Summa faxed in. I made him redo his essay a couple of times, and he ended up very happy with it. I didn't help him, except to tell him to give it some organization. It started out almost stream-of-consciousness. (Kind of like this blog.) He wasn't happy with me, I think, but he was very impressed with the final result, as was Susy. He has a much snappier tone to his writing than anything I've ever done. I should post it. I'll see if I can get his soft-copy tomorrow and hide it online somewhere. UPDATE: Here's his essay. He had to answer 4 of 6 questions, and he picked: special skills, favorite subjects, career plans, and why Summa?
We got a good half hour of practice in. She finally did a layup correctly, hopefully she'll do it again. She is getting better.
We got Andrew's application to Summa faxed in. I made him redo his essay a couple of times, and he ended up very happy with it. I didn't help him, except to tell him to give it some organization. It started out almost stream-of-consciousness. (Kind of like this blog.) He wasn't happy with me, I think, but he was very impressed with the final result, as was Susy. He has a much snappier tone to his writing than anything I've ever done. I should post it. I'll see if I can get his soft-copy tomorrow and hide it online somewhere. UPDATE: Here's his essay. He had to answer 4 of 6 questions, and he picked: special skills, favorite subjects, career plans, and why Summa?
Wednesday, February 08, 2006
Andrew's Choice
Last night we went to an open house at Whitford, the middle school that contains Summa, the middle school for all the geeky smart kids. It was impressive, and Andrew has decided to go there next year. He still has to fill out the application (due Friday, of course), but there are openings, so he should be accepted.
We didn't tell Matias or his parents beforehand, as I didn't want to give them any false hopes, but they were at the open house. Matias had, of course, been chosen to be a tour guide for Summa. They were happy to see us, and excited that Andrew might go to Summa - they've been trying to talk us into it for 2+ years now. But Andrew's been happy in his mainstream middle school. Possibly it was the horrible behavior witnessed at Highland's science fair that prompted his change of heart.
Mali was bored through much of the open house (actually, we ALL were bored silly during the Whitford portion of the talk, before they got to the tour and then the Summa discussions.) She livened up later, and thinks maybe it wouldn't be so bad going to Summa. Of course, she hasn't had any of the standardized tests yet, so so far only her parents (and close relatives) know she's brilliant.
We didn't tell Matias or his parents beforehand, as I didn't want to give them any false hopes, but they were at the open house. Matias had, of course, been chosen to be a tour guide for Summa. They were happy to see us, and excited that Andrew might go to Summa - they've been trying to talk us into it for 2+ years now. But Andrew's been happy in his mainstream middle school. Possibly it was the horrible behavior witnessed at Highland's science fair that prompted his change of heart.
Mali was bored through much of the open house (actually, we ALL were bored silly during the Whitford portion of the talk, before they got to the tour and then the Summa discussions.) She livened up later, and thinks maybe it wouldn't be so bad going to Summa. Of course, she hasn't had any of the standardized tests yet, so so far only her parents (and close relatives) know she's brilliant.
Sunday, February 05, 2006
Superbowl weekend
Beautiful weather, and I did not go skiing. Instead, we went to Tsulan, Tom, and Tiana's house for a superbowl party. Fun, except the wrong team won and I didn't win the office pool even with great numbers. Mali won $5 for the first quarter of the party pool, but that was the only victory for anyone from this house.
Last night we had a South Beach Diet dinner at Paul and Nancy's. Paul cooked a roast beef and some ribs, Susy brought a capri salad with roasted red peppers, and Alana brought sugarless cheesecake.
Last night we had a South Beach Diet dinner at Paul and Nancy's. Paul cooked a roast beef and some ribs, Susy brought a capri salad with roasted red peppers, and Alana brought sugarless cheesecake.
Friday, February 03, 2006
Science Fair
Andrew's team (A + Tiana and Kyle) pulled together a nice project, but they did not win a prize. The competition was surprisingly good. Here's a couple of photos.
We saw many familiar faces, but mostly hung out with Tom and Tsulan, and Alana, and Annette G. Afterwards the kids picked Subway over A&W, which we ate at home while watching Gilmore Girls. Now I am off to Bellevue for work.
We saw many familiar faces, but mostly hung out with Tom and Tsulan, and Alana, and Annette G. Afterwards the kids picked Subway over A&W, which we ate at home while watching Gilmore Girls. Now I am off to Bellevue for work.
Thursday, February 02, 2006
Sunshine gone.
Mali attributes yesterday's sunshine to her wearing her sunshine socks, which she picked out in just that hope. She is not wearing them again today.
No lawn mowing was accomplished yesterday, of course. Instead Mali requested we go to the gym early, so we shot hoops for half an hour before practice started.
Tonight is Andrew's science fair. I mentioned the electricity from produce project? I love their title, something about the project being a lemon. I'll try and remember to take a picture of it tonight, for posting.
No lawn mowing was accomplished yesterday, of course. Instead Mali requested we go to the gym early, so we shot hoops for half an hour before practice started.
Tonight is Andrew's science fair. I mentioned the electricity from produce project? I love their title, something about the project being a lemon. I'll try and remember to take a picture of it tonight, for posting.
Wednesday, February 01, 2006
Sunshine!
The sun is out, so I ventured outside and cleaned the gutters. If it stays out I may mow the lawn later. Mali has basketball practice at 5:00.
Uneventful, typical week. I've been cooking dinner and breakfasts from the South Beach Diet cookbook. Susy is rigorously sticking to it so far, and the beginning is the hardest. I'm trying at about half speeed. Monday was Steak Au Pauvre, last night chicken capri. It sounds good, but you really crave carbs. I've made toast and pasta as side dishes for the kids, besides the usual green item. Leftovers tonight. Breakfasts have been omelets or frittatas. I'm tired of eggs. Tomorrow I may try some low-carb blintzes.
Uneventful, typical week. I've been cooking dinner and breakfasts from the South Beach Diet cookbook. Susy is rigorously sticking to it so far, and the beginning is the hardest. I'm trying at about half speeed. Monday was Steak Au Pauvre, last night chicken capri. It sounds good, but you really crave carbs. I've made toast and pasta as side dishes for the kids, besides the usual green item. Leftovers tonight. Breakfasts have been omelets or frittatas. I'm tired of eggs. Tomorrow I may try some low-carb blintzes.
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