Trip Down Memory Lane

My sister, Karen, and I as we pose with a bouquet of flowers from my Dad to my Mom

Chris and his sister, Jennifer, on a family outing.
(yes, that's Chris with the white blond hair!)

Chris has started a new project. He's been taking the negatives and slides our parents have, scanning and then saving them to the computer. It's rather time consuming, but it has been a lot of fun to recollect childhood events or hear new stories about my dear husband. Here are just a couple of the snapshots taken several years ago.

Cookie Decorating

Finished Product

Luke and Hannah in action

Andrew got a hold of just a few red sprinkles and this is what happened . . .

On a whim, I decided trying to decorate cookies with my little trio last week. I picked up a couple of cookie cutters, some brighter food coloring and some refrigerated cookie dough. Since it was an experiment, I just made the icing and left most of the cookie work to the pros. After baking the cookies during naptime, we set out to decorate. Luke adopted the scoop, drip and spread approach. Several of his cookies were about 50% cookie and 50% icing. Of course, most of them also had green sprinkles on them. Hannah was a bit more dainty in her approach and just took her time. However, as time wore on, she became a bit more excessive in her icing. We did go through the icing. I used a recipe that my Mom had used as we were growing up. In her notes to me, she said that half of a recipe iced 58 cookies. Well, we went through two full recipes to ice 3 dozen or so cookies. Oh well, we had fun and I think it was a successful experiment. We'll be sure to do this again in the future and maybe Andrew can get in on more of the action.

Special Morning

Today was our last MOPS before 2010 and a special one it was at that! They had the morning full of special treatment for all of us - massages, haircuts for a lucky few, eye brow waxes, hand care, wii and dance praise. That is in addition to a yummy spread of brunch items and a coffee bar. Plus, I left with more than my share of gifts and door prizes and I wasn't the only one. It was a wonderful time of relaxation and fellowship all while our little ones were cared for and entertained.

The morning was special for me because I've had just a bit of a rough week (is it really only Tuesday?!). Not nearly as rough as "rough" goes, but somewhat of a challenge for me. When I walked in, saw what we were doing and someone said, "good morning, Kim", I nearly cried and I have to admit a few tears did come to my eyes. This MOPS group has been the first one I've been a part of that I've felt myself in and part of the group. I'm so thankful for them. It all is because these ladies have been very kind and loving to me and for that I'm quite thankful. To know that they would serve us in this way meant a lot to me. Plus, I know they did it because they wanted it to be a service to us and not just something to do. I'm so thankful that God gave me this gift!

Today's Project

Since the forecast for today did not sound very promising, I headed to Micheal's last night to pick up a few supplies. I was looking for something to make for the kids' MOPS teachers. I have stuff here I could have made, but wanted it to be something a bit different (although, candy is a rather typical holiday gift) and maybe a bit of a time sacrifice for me. I found this candy mold and decided to make a try of it. I have never made this type of candy in my life so I didn't know what to expect. It actually wasn't too hard, but I think the first ones I did may have turned out a bit better than the latter batches - possibly, beginner's luck and a bit more patience at the beginning. Anyway, I was pleased with how these chocolate lollipops turned out. Hopefully, they taste good as well!

Out and About

Last week, Chris was on leave. Last week, Chris's parents were also visiting so Chris and I took advantage of a little time to ourselves. There is a decent sized town about an hour from our home that had a couple of museums that we wanted to visit. We took one day and headed out. The first stop was an underground salt museum. Very neat to visit if you're ever in the area. Since we got there when it opened on a weekday, we got a personal tour. We pretty much had the run of the place doing what we wanted when we wanted. Plus, much of what we saw was explained to us rather than having to read every detail. If you ever watch Dirty Jobs, this is the same salt mine that Mike Rowe visited in one of the episodes.

After a quick lunch at Quiznos, we headed to a space museum. I think it's billed as the largest space museum west of the Mississippi River. I have yet to figure out why in the world it is located nearly in the middle of nowhere middle America, but anyway, it was nice as well. They have the original refurbished Apollo 13 plus and the Liberty Bell 7 that they recently recovered from the ocean floor. They had a few other originals as well. We were busy that afternoon watching an IMAX movie and planetarium show and a rocket demonstration. I think Chris knew most of the stuff for the rocket demo, but I found it quite interesting as he made some mini rockets. In the middle of all of that, we tried to see everything on display. We were the last ones out the door when they closed and I think we could have spent another hour or two there.

After that very full day, we headed out again for Chris's squadron Christmas party. It was good that we went and socialized, met a new family to the squadron (it was his very first day of reporting to the squadron - very new) and spent some good time with my dear husband.

I got a duck!!!!!

So if you have been following; our neighbors have several ducks and ducklings, who occasionally visit our yard.

Today was great fun. I (Chris) caught a glimpse of them and jokingly told Luke to go chase them. He said OK and was out the back door. Our second son (in bed not napping) heard the door open and was outside in less than 10 seconds after he heard our alarm system beep (barefoot and coat-less at about 35 degrees). Which by the way works great for keeping track of wayward children. Luke was doing his best sheep dog impression around the backyard. I didn't expect him to actually catch one (he did). I got a second one and tried to get Hannah and Andrew to pet/touch it (no success). It all happened so fast; we only got a short video, but you can imagine the fun had by all.

A Glimpse of Today

Finished Project

Luke's Contribution

Reflections on Black Friday

Today was a first for me - hitting the Black Friday sales as soon as they opened. Actually, I did this one time several years ago, but that was for one item and then I headed home. Today, armed with my list, store coupons (of course!), pumpkin chocolate chip muffins for breakfast on the run and my bottle of water, I headed out to several of my favorite stores. Here are a few of my observations.

• You know it must be early when Jimmy's Egg isn't even open.
  
• The line at the McDonald's drive-thru had a least a dozen cars lined up at 3:30 am. I'm sure they were only selling coffee.
• I wonder what in the world possesses some people to spend hours standing in 30 degree temps for hours. I got to the store shortly before the store opened, but enjoyed my first muffin in the warmth of my car until the store decided to officially start the Christmas shopping season.
  
• It takes at least 45 minutes to check-out at Kohls if the end of the line is at the back of the store.
  
• What a trooper the gentleman in front of me was as he stood in line with his wife. Happy birthday to that stranger.
• I can move a lot more quickly with no shopping cart, stroller or my dear little trio in tow. That was quite advantageous today.
• Thankfully, Kohls was the longest line I stood in today. The others were running no more than 5 minutes.
• I enjoyed my first caffeine in the wee morning hours. I seldom have caffeine and if I do it is never before lunch. So, my free soft drink from Target was a bit much on the system, but it did keep me functioning. I hope this is not a taste of things to come. . .
  
• The kids are enjoying the free mini snow globe that JC Penney's was passing out.
• People were generally friendly. I really only ran into one disgruntled patron. Thankfully, they were on their way and I never encountered another one.

That's about it. I had fun, but at the same time, the whole concept of Black Friday is just a bit weird to me. I don't have a better word to describe it. I'll have to get back with you to let you know if I attempt this again.

Happy Thanksgiving!

It was a rare Thanksgiving - we were home, together as a family and it was just us. For that I'm quite thankful. The day was rather uneventful. The kids played outside for quite some time while Chris got caught up on a few items on his to do list. We definitely spent a few minutes watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. I spent a big chunk of my day in the kitchen, but that was definitely by choice. I can't leave out the time Chris and I spent perusing the Black Friday ads that appeared on our doorstep this morning. The day is nearly over and our tummies are quite full. I know it is the little stuff, but I'm very thankful for today, my dear husband who was home, loving and happy kids and just being together. Happy Thanksgiving!

Oh, in case your wondering, here's our Thanksgiving menu. Baked pork chops, corn casserole (Chris's favorite), mashed potatoes, pumpkin dinner rolls (the first yeast rolls I've ever made & I think I might make them again), sparkling grape juice and buckeyes for dessert. There is cherry pie for Chris to enjoy later. Yes, I know it was a bit nontraditional, but it was good and filling and I'm so thankful we are blessed to be able to have time and food like this.

Surprise! Surprise! Surprise!

It takes a lot of effort to completely surprise me. In fact, I'm not sure I've ever been as surprised as I was yesterday - 100%, completely surprised!

Chris left a week ago for what was scheduled as a three week trip. There was the possibility that he would be home early, but never did I dream that it would be just a week later. I thought maybe sometime after this coming weekend. Well, was I wrong. Yesterday, I was at church during the worship portion of the service when I feel a tap on my back. I turn and there was Chris! I had to look completely stunned. I was so surprised! Then, I burst into tears. Thankfully, they didn't last for long and there was music to cover my sobs. I was just so thankful that he was there!

Hannah's Interpretation

After listening to a VeggieTale CD a few days ago, I told the kids that I had one of the songs stuck in my head. So, today as we're listening to the same CD, Hannah informs me that the song is stuck in her hair.

Can It Be True?

I know for the vast majority of those of you who read this blog, this is not exciting news, but it was for me today. I can now make a left hand turn!! Let me explain . . . We live just a couple of miles from one of the city's busiest intersections. If we want to go either north, to go shopping or west to go to the zoo or church, which we frequent quite often, we have to go through this intersection. The west direction is what I'm most excited about because I have to make a left hand turn. We've lived here nearly 16 months and I haven't gotten that chance - until today (I was taking an alternate and I think slower route). The intersection has actually been under construction for 3 plus years. We visited this town for a weekend when Luke wasn't even one year old and we're pretty sure that intersection was under construction that weekend as well. Luke is now 4. They were changing it from a four way stop to a limited access interchange. All of that to say, I am thrilled that I can now turn as I please and not have to think so hard about getting to my destination that I can see, but can't get to.

Grateful

I love Operation Christmas Child. I enjoy going shopping for those that usually wouldn't receive a Christmas gift and some children that may have never even received a gift. What's even better is that the good news of Jesus is shared with them when they receive their boxes. Many children have gotten to know Jesus this way. My kids are even learning that there are kids in the world that don't have what they have and beginning to learn what it means to give. If you'd like more information, please check out this wonderful Christian organization here.

Anyway, last night, I went out of my comfort zone and out on a limb. Another lady and myself hosted a social for the spouses' in Chris's squadron here at our house. We were briefed on the reasoning behind how deployments, temporary assignments and leave were granted. Let's just say complicated! I digress . . . We also asked them to bring gifts for Operation Christmas Child. I had no idea what would happen. The squadron is obviously not a Christian organization so I was somewhere between, I'm going to get reprimanded for this to there will be no gifts for the kids to I absolutely don't know what to expect. However, I was stunned and abundantly grateful at the generosity of the ladies that attended. The boxes have yet to be packed, but my heart is overflowing with gratitude and prayers that these gifts will be used to reach more children that don't know our loving Father and Savior.

Thoughts on Veteran's Day

Veteran's Day has definitely taken on a new meaning in just the last few years. Before we were military, in our former civilian life, I basically viewed it as possible day off and a day when we didn't get our mail. However, that all changed once Chris joined the Air Force and people began thanking us for his service for our country. That makes me uncomfortable to be singled out, but I think it's mostly because it's quite humbling to be in that position. Those thank yous make me think of those that have fought hand to hand combat for our freedom over the decades. Those are the people that need to remembered. Don't get me wrong, I deeply appreciate the sacrifice my dear husband makes today for our freedom, but it looks so different from what it used to look like. For that, I'm deeply grateful.

The thank yous have also made me consider others that sacrifice so much, but don't have a "Veteran's Day". I especially think of those serving God. My sister is a pastor's wife. Her and her husband sacrifice and give so much of themselves to the people in the church and those in their neighborhood that don't know Jesus. Time is of great value to me (yeah, quality time is my love language). So, the time they have to sacrifice from their families at usually short notice is so important. So, today, on this Veteran's Day I would like to thank my sister, her husband and all of those that serve our loving and gracious Savior, Jesus Christ, for their service that will last for eternity.

It's Been Awhile . . .

It's been a few days since I've written primarily because I can't think of anything too creative to write about. So I guess you could say here is a hodge-podge of events and thoughts I've recently had.

• I really like this new computer Chris put together for us (it's great being married to such a smart guy!!)
• My daughter is ALL girl!
• What should I use for Luke since he insists that his trucks need something to dig in when the weather isn't conducive to using the outside dirt?
• I think only a baby could eat and sleep at the same time as evidenced by Andrew at lunch today.
• I had a wonderful time visiting with some dear friends from Oklahoma last week. That time will be full of fond memories to me.
• I'm beginning to get the Christmas shopping bug, but still feel it's a bit early to begin all the Christmas activities. I have a lot to do between now and Thanksgiving before I give Christmas too much thought.
• Hoping the spouses' social for Chris's squadron goes well this week. This is the first one that I've hosted in our home.
• Praying that God will change my heart attitude regarding Chris's absences due to work. I want to glorify God, honor Chris and his work and be a witness to others. God is thankfully working on me.
• Thankful for this somewhat wet and dreary day.
• It was fun to reconnect with a friend on Facebook that I last saw when I was in the fourth grade.
  
• Enjoying the quiet of naptime.
• I can't hear Luke say this enough, "I love my beautiful Mommy"
  
• Happy day to all of you!
  

Happy Halloween!

Our Pumpkin Princess

Our Construction Worker

Spiderman

Ready and Waiting

I have to admit that Halloween is by far my least favorite holiday and I must admit that the older I get, the more I dislike it. That may be a bit evident from my lack of enthusiasm. However, I still want my little trio to experience the fun aspects of the season so I try not to be too much of a Halloween scrooge.

This past week, we did our trick-or-treating at the squadron. Luke is not into costumes so it was all I could do to get him dressed like this for a couple of hours. Just so you know, he does not like dark green. He only likes light green aka John Deere green. He finally gave into his dear Mother and made a handsome construction worker, but I am a bit biased. Hannah was to be a pumpkin, but informed me the morning of the event that she wanted to be a princess. Thankfully, she was happy to be a pumpkin princess and all day kept telling me that's what she was going to be. Andrew didn't really care. He did really enjoy getting treasures put into his bucket. He caught on much more quickly to trick-or-treating than the other two did, but I guess that's what happens when you're number three.

Tonight, we just passed out candy to the multitudes. Luke has talked about this for days. He gets so excited to hand it out. Hannah wanted to be excited, but when it came right down to it, she was pretty picky who she wanted to give it to. Scary costumes - not so much. Princess costumes had a much better chance of getting a treat. She did get better as the evening wore on. Andrew just had a fun time outside with all of us.

That's about it for this year except the mark downs on candy. So, until next year, Happy Halloween!

Pumpkin Carving

Tonight was the annual pumpkin carving for the Robey family. No power tools this year. The project was short, sweet and simple. Chris did a great job of doing the actual carving. Hannah was the only one to help me separate out the seeds or to even touch the pulp. Luke enjoyed taking a tiny, not-very-sharp knife to some of the pumpkin scraps, which he cut into even smaller scraps. Andrew just watched from his perch on the table. We later toasted the pumpkin seeds for a yummy treat. However, the best part is always waiting until after dark and putting a candle in them to see them glow. They loved that part!

I saw at the zoo that they had cut the holes in the bottom of their pumpkins. So, this year we tried that and I think it works pretty well.

Back To School

We have a new student in our home . . . Chris. Last week began his first class towards his Masters in Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle. Education has come a long way since I've been in the classroom either teaching or as a student and it hasn't been that long ago! As you can see from the picture, our bedroom served as his classroom. He then was in class with his professor that was teaching from Nebraska and students in Kansas, Florida and I forget the other state represented. He taught using a webcam and they could all interact together. I find this all rather intriguing how this works, but the first two classes seemed to work out ok.

I wasn't sure how it would work especially when the kids were at home during his class. However, we told them Daddy had to go to "school" and that we couldn't bother him when he was in his class. They actually took it much better than expected. Plus, when Chris had a break, he could come out and chat a minute. We now have one week under our belt so we'll see how the next several weeks work. Hopefully, by mid-December, we'll have once class down and a few more to go!

Annual Pumpkin Patch Visit

Our pumpkin patch visit captured through the lense of a camera. Enjoy!

500!

I'm celebrating the simple fact that this is blog entry number 500. I never thought about the fact that I would write this much. I'm so thankful to my family and the adventure God has taken me on for all my material. I'm sure they'll be more to come . . .

Peace

Ahh . . . the peace and quiet of sharing even if it is only a blanket :)

Friends

Robin & I

Our two little trios: Hannah, Bo, Luke, Andrew, Olivia & Canon
(5 of the 6 looking somewhat at the camera isn't bad. They're snacking on large pretzel sticks as incentive)

Yesterday, we took a road trip to visit with some good friends. Luke informed me that he wanted to take the short road and not the big road to get to their house. I assured him this was the shortest road to their house. So, after a couple of hours in the car, we arrived. We had a fun day of chatting, catching up and playing. As you can see, between the two of us, we have six kids all under the age of four (barely) - 4 boys and 2 girls. That always makes naptime interesting :)

We met the Duckworths when our husbands were going through pilot training and we ended up attending the same church. God has deeply blessed me with their friendship over the last few years. Yesterday's visit will probably be the last visit we will have for awhile since they will soon be moving a few more hundred miles away - an even "bigger" road. They will be missed, but am so grateful that God has given me their friendship and I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that I will see them again - if not here, than for eternity!

One Year

Yep, one year. That's all it took. It took one year of living in the south for me to acclimate to the warmer temps. I've lived my entire life in a part of the country that has four distinct seasons and it only takes one very mild Georgia winter for me to get used to the warmth. There was frost this morning on the roofs and we have now had our furnace on for a couple of days and sometimes I can't get warm enough despite the fact that I have on a long sleeve shirt with a pull-over fleece zipped to my chin. Then there is something in me thinking that it can't be this cold in October. Yes, even my thinking has become a bit skewed. Hopefully, I will acclimate to this cooler weather quickly and enjoy what this new season has to offer.

When I Get Big . . .

We spent a few hours in the car yesterday to visit a good friend and her family. On the way home, Luke and Hannah informed me of a few things they want to do when they get big. Hannah's list consisted of: paying money, driving a car and typing on the computer. I assured her she would get more than enough experience doing all three of these when she gets older. Luke's list was short a sweet . . . drive a car. Oh boy . . .

Bittersweet Morning

Obviously, the "before" picture

Luke helping take out some of the screws
(I loosened them and he was the finisher)

So much more space!

Its new home in our basement

Well, I decided today was the day. I didn't put much thought into picking a day and planning on doing it. I was working in the boys' room and just decided . . . to take down the crib. Andrew has done an awesome job of sleeping in his big boy bed. He stays put and doesn't even try to get out (he had to have a bit of posterior encouragement the first day or so, but it was nothing like getting the other two to stay in bed) It was very bittersweet for me. I'm sad to have the crib now put away, but I think the boys will love the extra space.

As I was putting it away, it reminded me of this poem by Karen Kingsbury (it's also in her book Let Me Hold You Longer)

Long ago you came to me,
a miracle of firsts,
First smiles and teeth and baby steps,
a sunbeam on the burst.

But one day you will move away
and leave to me your past
And I will be left thinking of
a lifetime of your lasts…

The last time that I held a bottle
to your baby lips
The last time that I lifted you
and held you on my hip.

The last night when you woke up crying,
needing to be walked,
When last you crawled up with your blanket,
wanting to be rocked.

The last time when you ran to me,
still small enough to hold.
The last time that you said you’d marry
me when you grew old.

Precious, simple moments and
bright flashes from your past-
Would I have held on longer if
I’d known they were your last?

Our last adventure to the park,
your final midday nap,
The last time when you wore your favorite
faded baseball cap.

Your last few hours of kindergarten,
those last few days of first grade,
Your last at bat in Little League,
last colored picture made.

I never said good-bye to all
your yesterdays long passed.
So what about tomorrow-
will I recognize your lasts?

The last time that you catch a frog
in that old backyard pond.
The last time that you run barefoot
across our fresh-cut lawn.

Silly, scattered images
will represent your past.
I keep on taking pictures,
never quite sure of your lasts…

The last time that I comb your hair
or stop a pillow fight.
The last time that I pray with you
and tuck you in at night.

The last time when we cuddle
with a book, just me and you
The last time you jump in our bed
and sleep between us two.

The last piano lesson,
last vacation to the lake.
Your last few weeks of middle school,
last soccer goal you make.

I look ahead and dream of days
that haven’t come to pass.
But as I do, I sometimes miss
today’s sweet, precious lasts…

The last time that I help you with
a math or spelling test.
The last time when I shout that yes,
your room is still a mess.

The last time that you need me for
a ride from here to there.
The last time that you spend the night
with your old tattered bear.

My life keeps moving faster,
stealing precious days that pass,
I want to hold on longer-
want to recognize your lasts…

The last time that you need my help
with details of a dance.
The last time that you ask me for
advice about romance.

The last time that you talk to me
about your hopes and dreams.
The last time that you wear a jersey
for your high school team.

I’ve watched you grow and barely noticed
seasons as they pass.
If I could freeze the hands of time,
I’d hold on to your lasts.

For come some bright fall morning,
you’ll be going far away.
College life will beckon
in a brilliant sort of way.

One last hug, one last good-bye,
one quick and hurried kiss.
One last time to understand
just how much you’ll be missed.

I’ll watch you leave and think how fast
our time together passed.
Let me hold on longer, God,
to every precious last.

Luke Turns 4!

The highly anticipated green cake!

It must have tasted yummy!

Waiting so patiently

Yet, another truck to add to his collection

Luke's birthday would not be complete without some John Deere gifts!

Luke had a great fourth birthday. It's kind of hard to believe that he is already 4, but I guess that's the way it's supposed to be. They are to grow up and I guess if it came right down to it, I wouldn't want them to get stuck at one age for too long. It's been so fun to see him grow physically, but even more so in imagination, speech, character and love for people around him.

We actually celebrated most of his birthday a day early. Our dear friends, Roger and Cathy, came up for the day to help us celebrate. Later in the day, we enjoyed green cake and it was just as green on the inside as the outside. Luke had requested a green cake for quite some time and that Daddy would help him make it. So Saturday while I was getting my airplane ride, Chris had the kids help him make the very green cake. It was vanilla flavored with a lot of green food coloring. We then opened gifts.

On his actual birthday, Chris had to work so I was determined that we would do something fun for his special day. We headed to the zoo. It was the perfect day - beautiful weather and not many people there. We enjoyed looking at the animals, eating lunch and then taking a tram ride and of course, the later was the highlight of the morning. We finished his birthday by finishing off the green cake.

Luke did enjoy his birthday, but it was interesting. Luke informed me on more than one occasion that he did not want to turn 4. I guess he was having tons of fun being 3! When I asked him yesterday why, he said he didn't want to go to school. However, when he does anything that is somewhat like school, he absolutely loves it. So, I have no idea where this not wanting to be 4 thing has come from. Hopefully, he'll enjoy 4 even more than 3!

Up, Up and Away

Ready and waiting to take off!

Receiving fuel

Giving fuel

"Flying" the boom

344th ARS spouses along with our pilots and boom operators

Today was my first spouses' flight on Chris's plane, the KC-135 Stratotanker. I had really wanted to do one of these flight for some time, but it really wasn't too convenient and even not allowed one time due to pregnancy. So, I was excited about it, but when it came right down to it, I was nervous. There is just something about flying nearly 4 miles high and being within 20 feet of another airplane, being attached to that plane, traveling at 316 mph that just doesn't set too well in my mind when I think about it for long. All that to say, I'm thrilled that I got this opportunity to get a glimpse of what Chris does when he flies.

The flight began by sitting in the back of the plane and taking off sideways. It really wasn't a big deal, but it made it a bit interesting. We first got to experience what it was like to receive fuel. My first thought was, "that plane is close". Even though I saw them do it, I'm still a bit baffled as to how they get lined up. It looks like they are doing it blindly. The hole for where the fuel goes in is above the pilots' heads. I think the boom operator of the other plane does most of the lining up, but still, it seems a little blind to me. Now, I was freezing in the plane despite the layers of clothes we were told to wear. Thankfully, they turned some heat on and it soon felt much more comfortable. Then, we got to experience giving fuel. For some reason, this didn't bother me quite so much. I do have to say again, those planes are awfully close together even before they make contact. Finally, they let us go back and "fly" the boom without an airplane anywhere near where we were playing. I have to admit that it was a rather cool experience.

I'm so glad and proud that Chris enjoys what he does when he's flying. However, I definitely think the right person in our family is the pilot!