Trains on the Brain. . . .

Trains, trains and more trains were on the brain today.

Lowe's had a Build and Grow Clinic this a.m. and the boys were delighted to make wooden trains.

Thanks to their big brothers they were able to work through the process and build their projects. The building area was pretty crowded so these two chose to work on the floor.


These two found a corner to build their project and got right to work. After the trains were completed we headed over to the local museum and visited the model train exhibit on display for Christmas.
This gentleman was kind enough to show Thomas how to work the controls for the entire layout. He must have the patience of a saint. Thomas was delighted and could barely keep from grabbing the controls.
He was delighted to watch the trains go around and around the layout. It really held his attention and interest.
Andrew barely tolerated having his photo taken but he loved watching the trains. Maybe we should build one like this at home! I think I know just the place in the house for it.

Christmas is Coming!

Gary brought home the Christmas tree and started in on decorating. First thing you need is a couple of really good helpers.

Then you gather around the tree for a post decorating photo. You wouldn't believe how difficult it is to get everyone around the tree for a photo. What a crazy bunch!
A few soap bubbles and a Santa hat add to the festivities.

Beautiful Cousin

At Thanksgiving time, my beautiful cousin came for a visit from her home in Washington. She is such a pleasure to be around. When we heard she would be in town for a few days, we hurried over to see her and just hang out for a while.

Everyone wanted in the photos with Michelle and we cherish our time together. She is an inspiration to my teens as they sort through some of life challenges.
Just check out those happy faces. We love you, Michelle!

Veteran's Day 2010

Each Veteran's Day, Boy Scout Troop 132 works very hard helping out with the parade and Band-O-Rama to make sure things go a little smoother. This year they were joined by some boys from Troop 152 to get the numbers up to get the work done.

They meet at the Veteran's Hall at 5:30a.m. for breakfast with the veteran's. After thanking the veterans for their service, the boys headed out to the parade route where they set up barriers, fetched and carried for a variety of reasons then walked the parade route several times carrying banners and helping out.


At lunch time, everyone meets at the college stadium to prepare for Bandorama and have a quick lunch before working the event. Thanks to the moms-a hot lunch is provided for everyone although the seating arrangements are pretty casual.
No one goes hungry and everyone has plenty to eat before heading off to the event.
The carry a huge-King Kong flag around the stadium, escort the princesses and queen, help move benches and other props. It's a very long day for a terrific group of scouts.

Thanks guys for all the community service you do. You're a terrific asset to our community.

Entry to the Lego contest

Funny Santa in his sleigh with his elf in the back. Created especially for the Lego contest to create a holiday decoration for your home. Prize is $100.00 gift card for Legos! Wish us luck!

WE LOVE PEZ!

First time to take a photo of the Pez collection. These little things topple just like dominoes. Guess I'll have to find a stand or something to keep them standing up.
When the kiddos were little we would occasionally pick up a Pez as we were out and about. Over the years, the collection continues to grow. Always a big hit at our house.

Rifle Merit Badge

What a handsome guy instructing the boy scouts in the care and cleaning of a rifle!

Gary was the lead for the Rifle Merit Badge this October. He spent a few meetings instructing the boys in firearm safety, the rules and regulations of firearm shooting, care and cleaning of a rifle as well as several other requirements from the Boy Scouts of America merit badge book. Finally the big day arrived and the troop headed out to the local police shooting range.
Everyone had to wear their eye and ear protection and shoot from a prone position.
Lots of parents and leaders were on hand to ensure good, safe behavior while they took turns shooting.
Here's the group of boys that are working on completing the merit badge. Lucky guys to get to spend the day at the range!