tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-140696342011-07-07T17:36:26.143-07:00Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.comBlogger5051100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-24549797066347333722009-06-07T02:05:00.001-07:002009-06-07T02:05:40.150-07:00

Writing on hold. Just too much going on. Life is good!

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-90481237459353183722009-05-19T08:28:00.000-07:002009-05-19T08:40:46.727-07:00

The weather has been wonderful lately. I've been thinking that the heat would hit us pretty quick...guess I'm used to Taiwan. I used to say I enjoyed Taiwan's two weeks of Spring. But the Spring here has been longer and quite pleasant! We've been enjoying thunderstorms, days of cloudless skies, cool nights and mornings, warm, sunny afternoons....I love it.School is getting closer to ending.

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-71848268376703981322009-05-06T04:59:00.000-07:002009-05-07T05:09:19.553-07:00

We've got a family of mockingbirds just outside Em's window, and they are pretty noisy lately! They're teaching their young one to fly, and the young one isn't quite ready to leave the nest! It sure makes for some noisy mornings, though. ("It's a sin to kill a mockingbird, it's a sin to kill a mockingbird....")*edit*The mockingbirds are just a few of the critters we find around our home. Of

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-85229773189957655662009-05-03T05:43:00.000-07:002009-05-03T05:48:12.286-07:00

Well, I was lamenting recently about the lack of thunderstorms this year. What's that saying? Watch out for answered prayer? Something like that. Well yesterday we had four severe thunderstorm warnings and two tornado watches. This while two of my kids were out and about! Timo went with a friend to a market day, and Christopher went to the Ignite concert at the high school. Timo didn't

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-85354711090895319522009-04-21T15:40:00.000-07:002009-04-21T15:42:28.646-07:00

I'm so proud of my kids. Sometimes you just have to come out and say it.

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-64876535123861244672009-04-16T18:31:00.000-07:002009-04-16T18:51:05.199-07:00

When I was teaching middle school, let's see, a DECADE ago, I came across an amazing curriculum supplement called the American Promise. It was a discussion guide, really, and came with some awesome, 10 minute video clips to be used as discussion starters. I'm not sure how much my students retained when going through this guide, but I learned tons. There was no political slant, only the basic

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-27555663668630213072009-03-13T23:56:00.000-07:002009-03-13T23:58:00.124-07:00

Are awesome. They're my favorite. :)

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-49492176332000779452009-03-09T15:24:00.000-07:002009-03-09T15:25:27.966-07:00

Sometimes right does prevail.

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-15910861341864610802009-03-06T17:56:00.000-08:002009-03-06T18:07:35.348-08:00

So a few weeks ago T treated the family to a trip to the museum to see the King Tut exhibit. It's the last time it will be allowed to tour in the States, so if you want to see it, see it now! In looking through the exhibit, it was amazing to see the things that were three thousand years old. I think some of our favorite items were the personal items. Of course the necklaces filled with gold

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-47192934643213870212009-02-11T19:52:00.000-08:002009-02-11T19:57:19.982-08:00

Timo had his first scrimmage today after school. He did well! He played center field and left field for four innings, got on base and stole home. He was out at home, but he should have been safe. There were no umps, and the other team's coach was calling from behind the pitcher's mound. Even the parents on the other team said he was safe. But, it was a scrimmage, so no harm no foul. There

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-5896574673263322812009-02-03T15:22:00.000-08:002009-02-03T15:23:09.481-08:00

Our baby is almost in the double digits. Where does time go?

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-73407734184370054132009-01-31T18:26:00.000-08:002009-01-31T18:33:02.180-08:00

Well, we're excited to say that Timothy made the freshman baseball team. There were about 40 kids trying out, and only 17 made it. The neat thing is that the other kids have been playing ball since they were small. This is Timo's first year. We're really looking forward to his being under a coach, and good solid training. Big Dad's done a good job with him so far, but working with a team is

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-8778028125992170612009-01-29T05:00:00.000-08:002009-01-29T05:03:42.561-08:00

My Cousin in Law tagged me with a 25 Random Things meme. For those of you not on Facebook, I thought I'd post it just for fun. If you want to do it to, let me know in the comments, and I'll link to your site.Here goes:Once you've been tagged, you are supposed to write a note with 25 random things, facts, habits, or goals about you. 1. I've lived in a variety of places: Texas, California,

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-42420057357860645922009-01-24T08:02:00.000-08:002009-01-24T08:08:41.277-08:00

I wasn't going to post anything until we had pictures ready, but I just had to say we had so much fun. Brian Regan had a lot of new material, but he also did some of his classic oldies as an encore: Stupid in School and Emergency Room. That part was hilarious, because the crowd was quoting it all with him, and when he messed up they corrected him. One time, he got all flustered and lost his

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-10433907062101945742009-01-22T19:40:00.000-08:002009-01-22T19:47:49.849-08:00

Em and I are heading to see Brian Regan in Abilene tomorrow. We are SO looking forward to it...we're big fans. We quote him whenever it fits the situation. We'll be staying over night. I'll report how it all goes. :) In the meantime, click on Brian Regan's name above and watch him perform one of my favorite bits: "I walked on the moon."It's about seven minutes but completely worth it. Enjoy!

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-67118375396329360782009-01-15T16:08:00.000-08:002009-01-15T17:03:58.543-08:00

Well, the biggest news of note is Timothy's gal pal. I'm not sure if we should say girlfriend yet, they have yet to go out, but I think it's a given that he will be buying her some flowers and chocolates for Valentine's day. San had a girlfriend for a couple of days, but that fizzled. It may have been the way it started. Her girl friends kept asking Nathaniel if he wanted to "go out" (which

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-85328950923133790632009-01-05T07:12:00.000-08:002009-01-05T07:13:20.323-08:00

... emails me quotes he likes. I love that.

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-62714273211453798672009-01-02T15:33:00.000-08:002009-01-02T15:34:53.582-08:00

Timo got his new bat. He has waited by the door all day. That bat is saweeet!

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-53519150432505453332009-01-01T18:58:00.000-08:002009-01-01T19:10:50.988-08:00

I am happy and content about how the start of 2009 went. I spent the time with friends and family, laughed, joked, pulled pranks, played games... and talked on the phone with loved ones far away. It was time well spent, I think. In looking over Erma Bombeck's list of priorities, I thought I might make this my New Year's Resolution. Feel free to take any or all for your own resolutions,

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-56326375018146226222008-12-24T06:23:00.000-08:002008-12-24T06:52:51.483-08:00

This has been a pretty hectic year. I know I haven't posted like I should, and blogging is definitely on the Resolution list for New Year's. I think writing has been a good discipline in my life. It's fun to go back and read over the past three years as well. It's a good review of events. I've forgotten many of the things the kids have done!Em graduated from high school this year,

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-32597673750176020572008-12-19T08:51:00.000-08:002008-12-19T09:05:15.729-08:00

You know, there are people that come into our lives that bring out the best in us, and because of that, they impact our lives in a big way.Hoyt Womack was that person for Tim. Tim was working, landscaping and taking care of yards, when the kids were small. He took care of Hoyt's yard. At that time, Tim was pretty tired of christians. If anyone was going to not pay him for his work, or try to

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-1457745676643496992008-12-11T19:29:00.000-08:002008-12-11T19:33:04.255-08:00

This video shows every flight on Earth in 72 seconds. It's amazing to watch. A little bit scary, too. Maybe air flight controllers don't make enough money.Click Here

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-89517748880785283752008-12-10T08:00:00.001-08:002008-12-10T08:00:56.188-08:00

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-78816510539045779742008-11-24T17:11:00.000-08:002008-11-24T17:14:52.739-08:00

We decided to have a picture day. Here are the kids: Emily, Timothy, Christopher and Nathaniel.

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-26279834692457735072008-11-16T16:31:00.000-08:002008-11-16T16:34:40.387-08:00

I'm sure you've noticed I haven't been posting a lot of pictures lately. That's because I accidentally deleted my iPhoto. My photos are saved, mind you, but the program is gone. I LOVE my iPhoto, and I can't find anything else like it. Another little tidbit, the DVD's I need to replace it are in Taiwan. This stateside was not well thought out. Live and learn. I'll just have to keep my

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-42388367930761804382008-11-10T10:58:00.000-08:002008-11-10T11:03:45.219-08:00

Tim was listening to the news today, describing Laura Bush talking to Michelle Obama about helping the kids transition into the White House. He said he could hear the conversation now if he moved our family into the White House:Tim to the boys: "You just threw that baseball and put a hole in a 200 YEAR OLD painting! What were you thinking? You know what you're going to do? You're going to go

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-51827110758489106502008-11-09T14:39:00.000-08:002008-11-09T14:40:08.087-08:00

....a fireplace is nice.

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-86531442022016968062008-11-08T07:24:00.000-08:002008-11-08T07:36:28.568-08:00

It's a well known fact that I love Starbucks. I fell for the entire concept hook, line and sinker. One of my favorite movies has major moments in Starbucks: You've Got Mail. I like the idea of getting a coffee in a coffee house, sitting down in a nice, comfy chair, and talking with a good friend or reading a magazine or book. I even like their cups.However, they're expensive. I can't

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-82018281643467664322008-11-02T07:18:00.000-08:002008-11-02T07:25:57.495-08:00

I love Autumn. It's a changing season, and it's the season that brings relief from the heat of the Summer. It also brings color, closeness to family, and begins the year's festivities. But I love Winter, too. I really couldn't put my finger on why, except that it's so fun to be nice and cozy in a warm house while it's cold outside. It's the same reason I love rainy days. You're reminded of

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-35629846253830573692008-10-31T15:09:00.000-07:002008-10-31T15:13:25.118-07:00

We went to the courthouse today, Tim, Em and I. We went there to vote. It was an enjoyable experience, and was fun to escort Em on her first time voting. You know, it was a pleasant crowd, the folks who went voting. At least here in Texas. Everyone was respectful, and we all were appreciative of each other being there to exercise our right to vote. Democracy at it's finest. Grassroots.

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-25473540445157666152008-10-31T10:42:00.000-07:002008-10-31T10:45:35.975-07:00

Tim took the boys with him to the deer processing place, where there were many deer waiting to be butchered and readied for freezers. Christopher walked into the house after visiting and said, "I've seen things today that I can never un-see." He always has just the right comment.

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-2461423216650604622008-10-30T20:53:00.000-07:002008-10-30T20:54:58.508-07:00

The boys are number one in the season, number two in the final tournament. They did so good. No one could believe this is the first time they've ever played ball. Yes, I'm bragging, 'cause I'm a proud mom! :)

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-68100154761340888842008-10-28T07:40:00.000-07:002008-10-28T07:43:10.024-07:00

Kimmer's little girl (OK, Greg's, too) isn't so little anymore! What a cutie! Get a Facebook account, Kim! We'd have a blast with you on there. Scott Karpiuk, Greg Wells, John Patterson, Currie, Darb, Dannah, Debbie McCaskil, Debbie and Bill Crawford....you're missing out!You're missed. We've GOT to get together!

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-24261370669321275532008-10-20T15:01:00.000-07:002008-10-20T15:08:13.816-07:00

So I played around with some of San's pictures. It was fun, and I think they turned out good. I like the old fashioned look. My favorite is the one where San is at bat, and you can see the head of the umpire on the far left.

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-38183696018578509692008-10-15T21:24:00.000-07:002008-10-15T21:32:15.455-07:00

To say San is obsessed with Legos is an understatement. He eats, sleeps and dreams about Legos, and spends countless hours making sets and video taping productions. We have at least three full tapes of his Lego movies, and they are fun to watch. You can see the evolution of his abilities as a stop-motion movie maker while watching the videos. You can also hear his narration at times, which is

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-17602383681624693082008-10-14T09:32:00.000-07:002008-10-14T09:33:47.748-07:00

That's what place the boys' baseball team is in: first place. As of last night. Three extra innings. Up until 11 pm. But it was still fun.

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-21931926238484305532008-10-10T05:39:00.000-07:002008-10-10T07:17:43.755-07:00

The boys' baseball game last night was so exciting. We loved it because the other team played dirty, and it ended up working against them in the end.The other team led for the whole game until the last inning. There is an hour and forty five minute time limit, so their coach had their pitcher stall to run out the time, even though we were last at bat. So time ran out, but we got to finish our

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-76282257527315270702008-10-04T12:00:00.000-07:002008-10-04T12:03:46.203-07:00

The kids are getting a little taste of public school:San: "My PE teacher said the 'D' word."Bubs: "One of my teachers says the 'A' word."Em: "Everyone in my class says the 'F' word!"They have such a good sense of humor about it. I love that they tell us these things, even if it makes me cringe a bit.

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-21328485254393093592008-09-27T09:39:00.000-07:002008-09-27T09:57:02.892-07:00

You know, the way he entered this world is very close to the way he is. He was 10 days late, and had to be induced. After about 15 hours of labor, he was born and was mad as all get out. And he let the world know it, too. Tim said he was so mad, his face was almost purple. But once he calmed down, he settled in to get a good look at his surroundings. And that's Timo. He likes his comfort

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-39254666726277173142008-09-21T14:29:00.000-07:002008-09-21T14:47:59.646-07:00

Timo hitting his "almost out of the park-er" Not bad for his second game ever. You can see the ball heading toward the fence. It ended up being a triple.San slid into home. :) He was so happy.San with his game face on.Bubs waiting his turn to bat.Bubs getting a good hit. You can see the seams on the ball as it's heading up.It was a great day. Hot, but a lot of fun!

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-13169172094261385732008-09-19T11:20:00.000-07:002008-09-19T11:22:22.453-07:00

There are a host of people now awaiting your arrival on Facebook! I just might even make a group: "Get Kim to Join Facebook" group. You can post Logan pictures all you want, and it's even easier than email! Join, OK? JOIN!!!

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-79050542608586959532008-09-14T20:58:00.001-07:002008-09-14T20:59:02.623-07:00

I just had a crazy, facebook tutorial with Audrey. It's so fun to have nutty friends.

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-90523190637330635672008-09-07T20:04:00.001-07:002008-09-07T20:06:54.086-07:00

I was out window shopping in Taichung and came across the cutest mannequins.

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-19573291253603576192008-09-06T16:00:00.000-07:002008-09-06T16:07:56.616-07:00

You know how you have a sense sometimes of the things your kids can do? Well, we've had that inkling about Timothy, Christopher and Nathaniel concerning baseball.Given the fact that they haven't really played REAL baseball before, we weren't sure how they would do. Let me just say, though, that we were pretty close in our perceptions of their skills.First, Nathaniel. He's just a natural. He

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-67618327114481530882008-08-25T15:49:00.000-07:002008-08-25T15:59:38.178-07:00

Big Dad had a great weekend. It was the result of a couple of months of planning, and all turned out nicely.Last Saturday was Mom Hughes' birthday, and Big Dad decided he would fly in to surprise her. He conspired with Dad Hughes and Colleen, and the secret was kept completely, so that she was genuinely shocked when she walked into her house and saw him sitting at her table. Of course a

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-2025312560843038052008-08-22T03:50:00.000-07:002008-08-22T04:17:23.365-07:00

While it's been pretty hectic since we arrived in the States last Sunday, (has it only been five days???) it has also been a lot of fun listening to the kids' excitement as they rediscover life here. First, Em was reunited with us the day after we got here. She was completely showered with attention from the boys. We all went to Cracker Barrel for lunch (mom and dad brought Em up, and Cracker

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-12409882087320089482008-08-10T02:22:00.000-07:002008-08-10T02:31:11.278-07:00

I know I've been absent for awhile. It's been a crazy summer, moving Em to the states, getting her set up in college and driving school, coming back here and beginning the process of moving....AGAIN. Our stuff will go to storage, but it's still a move, nonetheless. Once again, it was fun to see moving people in action. Movers came to help us move and to put our things in crates for storage.

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-64781472188717424842008-08-01T18:13:00.000-07:002008-08-01T18:20:19.441-07:00

OK. Em now has her driver's license. I think she did it all in record time, too! She took the driver's ed course, which was about 3 weeks long. She had to have seven hours of driving time and seven hours of observation in before she leaves for college mid-August. The lady at the driving school said it would be hard to get it all done by the time she leaves. But she wasn't anticipating Em.

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-43245173340951411012008-07-29T06:55:00.000-07:002008-07-29T06:57:16.101-07:00

Get on Facebook. Darb is finally on, so are her sisters. And John Cremeans, Greg and Currie Wells..... Even Mama Boo is on! Get a FACEBOOK ACCOUNT! We'll have lots of fun. I promise. Love you and miss you bunches!!!!

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-2970467693576319872008-07-07T16:07:00.000-07:002008-07-07T18:59:17.677-07:00

Here's your candy. :) More than you can say, think, imagine, hope or dream!

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-14478719546179914022008-07-03T10:38:00.000-07:002008-07-03T10:42:39.291-07:00

She's tested in, (because in Texas, if you didn't graduate from a Texas high school, you have to test in, even if you've taken your SAT's!), got her schedule, classes are paid for, and she'll be off and running in August. Now we just need to get her books and supplies, and she'll be good to go!We're so proud. And ready to take a break from all of the running around!!!Way to go, Em!Now for

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-17353833972293692182008-06-29T14:52:00.000-07:002008-06-29T15:02:00.898-07:00

Well, I've been telling him for days now that I would post these pictures. San has an obsession with Legos. Initially, it was Bionicles. I think he has just about every one made up to about three years ago. Then he switched to Star Wars Legos, which turned into quite a hobby for him. He spent HOURS making Star Wars Lego movies, building props and backgrounds, etc. His interest in Lego sets

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-91708447923026884772008-06-19T22:17:00.000-07:002008-06-19T22:29:45.010-07:00

It's so nice to be on this side of the pond. I have forgotten how nice. It's only been one day, but I've already had an ice caramel latte at Starbucks and yes it did taste just a little bit better. And I can't tell you how nice it is to drive on wide roads, and walk on poop-free sidewalks.I think Vuji remembered me. He's still as cute as ever. But he makes his mile walk around the block with

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-25663492770329854512008-06-15T10:17:00.000-07:002008-06-15T10:25:41.673-07:00

Well, Em's flight didn't go as planned. :) She ended up in LAX for 26 hours! When she didn't show up in Florida, we started calling around. I contacted the police (I don't care what you've heard about the LAPD, they're awesome!) and they had me send a picture of her, contacted their guys at the airport and started looking for her. When we finally got in touch with Em, the first thing she said

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-59451990451701741912008-06-12T22:43:00.000-07:002008-06-12T22:51:39.397-07:00

This is Ba Ban. He's a neighborhood dog that we just adore. He's such a good dog, and such a big baby. When he walks up to you, he stands or sits so that he's touching you. He'll even lean so hard against you, that if you step away he'll fall over!He's so adorable, and his owner lets us love on him whenever we want. He's just a Taiwan street dog, and we especially love his stripes. It's

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-38148349457274514882008-06-07T17:51:00.001-07:002008-06-07T18:09:13.127-07:00

If you notice the people in the background smiling, it's because T and the boys were whistling and yelling for Em. It was very cute. This is Em receiving her diploma from the Superintendent. It was such a dreamy night.Em ended up attending an all night party and the kids gathered together for their last sunrise at Morrison. They went to the tower and took pictures of the campus at sunrise.

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-7553452707134306912008-06-04T14:52:00.000-07:002008-06-04T14:59:53.490-07:00

Well, last night was the 8th grade recognition at Morrison. All I can say is that we have a great group of 8th graders. They are amazing kids. There were four speakers, and they all brought a bit of themselves to the stage. One even named each person in the class and said something about what they brought to the class. At the end, she likened it to a sundae and finished up with putting a bit

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-61625653352623977052008-05-29T05:10:00.000-07:002008-05-29T05:32:32.551-07:00

Em's got a week left of school, and she's going to be spending it in Kenting. :) The senior trip starts this Saturday and extends to Thursday. I know she's bummed.Yearbooks will be handed out tomorrow, everyone will start signing autographs and saying nice things. Some will be the usual yearbook signings, some will be sincere, but in the end it will mark then end of an era for Em.In talking

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-38437198881617129312008-05-22T14:43:00.000-07:002008-05-22T14:57:23.929-07:00

Well, Em had a great time in Japan. They won 3rd place, and her last game was a busy one, with Em racking up 14 saves. They won that game 3-1. She said she didn't get to see much of Japan, though. They stayed on the military base. She did come home with about 6 bags of candy, though. The kiddos are getting down to their last days of school. Em will have her Junior/Senior banquet tomorrow

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-27069304367115651602008-05-16T19:02:00.000-07:002008-05-16T19:23:02.212-07:00

Days are just moving into weeks, and we're down to three weeks left of school! I can't believe it. The boys went on a camping weekend, so Em and I decided to have a girl's weekend. Last night we went to see Ironman in Gold Class, went to Chili's, walked and shopped around, talked...just had a good ol' time. Then, as if we didn't make enough memories, the taxi we were riding in on the way home

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-64508992360167207732008-05-10T22:58:00.000-07:002008-05-10T23:04:18.325-07:00

God bless the moon, and God bless meAnd God Bless the ones we're longing to see...Mom, I remember you and Mamaw singing this one!Enjoy. We love and miss you both!

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-83443494411575120122008-05-03T19:01:00.001-07:002008-05-03T19:10:00.627-07:00

Christopher's particle pollution display. Those letters were made from a filter we hung in our window for a month. Gross, huh?Timothy's invention, made possible by Aunt Colleen's quick trip to Home Depot for us! Thanks, Aunt Colleen!The crowd waiting for the award results.Timothy's Honorable Mention award. There were such great ideas, it truly was an honor.

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-10417384892946961972008-05-01T06:06:00.000-07:002008-05-01T06:10:58.750-07:00

I'll post some pictures later, but Timothy won honorable mention for his invention. Thanks so much Aunt Colleen! He wouldn't have been able to do it without you!Christopher's science fair project garnered a lot of questions and interest. There was just a lot of competition. We found out a lot about particle pollution, though. It was a rough few weeks, and I was doing the happy dance on

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-77845967281061137202008-04-29T15:51:00.001-07:002008-04-29T15:53:52.026-07:00

You're a lifesaver!!!!

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-67960624721954878432008-04-22T04:33:00.001-07:002008-04-22T04:35:01.349-07:00

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-75667258430622081332008-04-13T20:08:00.001-07:002008-04-13T20:20:59.807-07:00

Today is Christopher's birthday! He's no longer a pre-teen...he's crossed over to the teenage years. Three teens in the house will be interesting. Christopher, you are such a light and joy in this house. When you're not around, there is a definite spark missing. Your humor and insights into the world are always worth listening to. Daddy and I can't wait to see what your teenage years bring

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-12659111145378289992008-04-11T02:26:00.000-07:002008-04-11T02:33:55.313-07:00

is quite entertaining. We had a fun trip to Taipei yesterday and today, renewing some paperwork at AIT. The thing that's fun about going there is that you get to meet people from the states that you ordinarily wouldn't meet. The funny thing was that we had the entire waiting room entertained. They ended up calling us all giggles. It's Big Dad's fault, though. He gets us going, and there's

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-600673679787621562008-04-08T19:23:00.000-07:002008-04-08T19:24:09.242-07:00

Love you, Schmoopie.

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-35151478893505963922008-04-04T01:38:00.000-07:002008-04-04T01:39:55.044-07:00

We're sorry you're not feeling well! We'll try to call at a better time. We're thinking about you!!!

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-83323688000159042872008-03-28T05:35:00.000-07:002008-03-28T05:37:55.115-07:00

And get Kristin on there, too. I'm having a good time joking around with Greg Wells about the trip to mom and dad's house in the VW. Anywho, we're needing some good ol' college stories on there.WE NEED YOU!!! Who else will get the wonton story?

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-54496089692899761792008-03-25T20:08:00.000-07:002008-03-25T20:15:50.140-07:00

We surprised Em with a trip to Hong Kong this spring break. She had absolutely no idea, and had planned on taking care of animals for people while they were away (guess who's taking care of animals while people are away?). Anywho, she was totally shocked. Then it was a matter of waiting for the time to leave. It was even worse in the airport when we had an hour and a half to kill. She has an

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-36019286640907957862008-03-23T01:47:00.000-07:002008-03-23T01:56:34.446-07:00

Anyone who knows Timothy knows he's obsessed with baseball. He's been trying his hand at pitching lately, with a little coaching from his dad. His goal is to make the baseball team in Texas, so we'll see how that goes. He has about a year to hone those skills.But....T got the full effect of those skills yesterday. He and Timothy went to the school for a little practice, and about an hour

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-85441907939779961472008-03-18T17:44:00.000-07:002008-03-18T18:05:10.132-07:00

Timothy found out, by looking on the school website, that he will have to know the school fight song at school. That makes two things he'll have to memorize when he starts school: the fight song and the Pledge of Allegiance. Yes, that's right. My kids have gone to international schools, so they don't say the pledge. They remember some of it from the six months they spent in the states six years

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-11550942017593867692008-03-03T04:21:00.000-08:002008-03-03T04:44:59.878-08:00

Miss Neff is San's teacher, and is such an exceptional one. We are always happy to have her as one of the kids teachers. She runs a great balance between keeping us up on the things the kids needs to work on, and the positives that she sees. Today, I got to hear a positive. Mind you, there have been some "working on" things, like cutting down on the number of yellow slips San gets (it's what

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-15605202288656749932008-03-01T03:23:00.000-08:002008-03-01T03:30:50.878-08:00

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-90113313735755800492008-02-16T06:01:00.001-08:002008-02-16T06:18:59.005-08:00

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-40312149629443266842008-02-14T05:04:00.000-08:002008-02-14T05:15:46.711-08:00

The coolest thing happened today.I was talking with a friend, and a fellow teacher walked by. He stopped and said, "I saw someone who knows you when I was on break." This took me by surprise, because I knew he went to the middle east. Of course I was intrigued. He went on to say that this person came up to him and asked if he knew the Hughes family. His response? "Don't get me started!"They

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-39571876037015634222008-02-13T04:52:00.000-08:002008-02-13T05:07:17.299-08:00

Well, we're back. We had a great trip to Thailand. We decided this year we were going to make the kids' trip there memorable. In the past, we've always focused on meetings, networking, etc. But this year we took advantage of the time, relaxed, went to some helpful meetings, and had a great time. We also hooked up with good friends, swapped stories, which is always fun.I've got some videos I

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-13427895257756134152008-02-03T05:23:00.000-08:002008-02-03T05:24:59.058-08:00

Life is still good.I'll post pictures later so you can see it.Mom Hughes...we're thinkin' boutcha.

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-22961958213008359452008-01-31T02:48:00.000-08:002008-01-31T02:50:25.715-08:00

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-73304930461342792252008-01-28T23:21:00.000-08:002008-01-28T23:22:12.133-08:00

that the taste of Sprite zips me straight back to Ninglang.

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-57376685274916821742008-01-24T23:21:00.000-08:002008-01-24T23:27:27.984-08:00

is SO good.

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-51534552548462010972008-01-22T03:33:00.000-08:002008-01-22T05:05:27.406-08:00

One of the things that discourages us in this particular profession is the fact that many in this profession feel the need to "toot their own horn" so to speak. In fact, it's something I fear may be a downfall at some point if we're not careful, because there is so much pride attached to it. Pride is something I have a really hard time with, and in general I avoid association with prideful

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-78267623128751408052008-01-10T00:11:00.000-08:002008-01-10T00:28:49.107-08:00

There are three times of the year that are pretty hectic around here: Beginning of school, end of school, and now. All have to do with the multitude of meetings that take place for various reasons. The beginning of school means IEP meetings, setting up schedules and getting students situated and more comfortable in their new surroundings. The end of school is also about IEP meetings, getting

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-43606467238096272992008-01-03T16:22:00.000-08:002008-01-03T17:11:22.943-08:00

We were driving down the road last week, and there was this EXPLOSION in the middle of the road. It was so close. It could have been us! ThenA Car exploded.Then a bus....And then.... Ok. It was just bird poop on the windshield. But I had you going, didn't I?

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-10378830812288436162007-12-24T05:12:00.000-08:002007-12-24T05:23:33.123-08:00

Every Christmas Eve, we have a little tradition we've adopted (or adapted, however you want to look at it) since we've been here in Taiwan. Santa's "Elf" comes to visit, and leaves us a little gift. See, here in Taichung they have this wonderful thing called Gold Class. It's at the movie theater, and when you go there you get the royal treatment. (Kay and Kaysha can attest to this!) You sit

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-63392734417504063542007-12-17T14:51:00.000-08:002007-12-17T14:53:18.891-08:00

I know, it's early there, but here it's already the 18th, so Happy Birthday to you! :)I will just walk around with a smile on my face all day knowing that I'm still 3 years younger. :)Have a great day!

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-86767164622282922942007-12-13T17:03:00.000-08:002007-12-13T17:11:46.067-08:00

Yesterday was an unusually busy day, in terms of events that took place.Lunch: I bought a hotdog at 7-11 and brought it in for San's lunch. He walked in to get his lunch, took one look at the hotdog, walked over and hugged my neck, and with this quiet, wistful voice said, "I knew this day would come." After school: Play tryouts....I'll post how those went at some point.A HUGE fire near

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-53540457368398194332007-12-10T14:45:00.000-08:002007-12-10T14:46:16.370-08:00

Here is my favorite clip about the meaning of Christmas.

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-83443522676596365632007-12-08T15:57:00.000-08:002007-12-08T16:13:59.789-08:00

It's official. Big Dad and I now have an adult child. We knew this day was coming, but it came so soon!Em had a good birthday. Gifts from friends, dinner with family. It's always fun to go out as a family, especially to Fridays! She had to endure "18" jokes all day. She got some great hiking clothes, in preparation for her trip after Chinese New Year this next year. Facebook is fun as well

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-12006035199493848532007-12-01T20:31:00.000-08:002007-12-08T16:27:18.733-08:00

San and Christopher have been playing the "got you last" game with a vengeance lately. Yesterday was no different, as they went to the school to play some softball with their dad and some friends. Hearing them tell the story is hilarious, because they can only speak a few words before busting out laughing. It took awhile for the story to get out, but in the end everyone was laughing right

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-63002641587245781712007-11-30T20:53:00.000-08:002007-11-30T21:16:01.361-08:00

Thanksgiving has come and gone, and the weather is getting cooler and more crisp. It's making the evening and/or morning walks with Big Dad much more enjoyable, and we actually walk a bit faster. Usually we walk and talk, but with it being colder our pace has quickened which means a little less talking. Not much, just a little. :)The kids are in the throws of Christmas activities: concerts or

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-78685592108271256572007-11-29T14:35:00.000-08:002007-11-30T21:16:52.038-08:00

I must say, Kim, I see a little bit of mischief in those eyes. Could it be you've inadvertently passed down your TP'ing abilities? She just might have your gift of talking your way out of things, too. ("Bev, don't go get your pad.") To this day, I don't know how you do it.Miss you, Kimmers!

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-428690875794001162007-11-27T16:53:00.000-08:002007-11-27T17:00:46.250-08:00

I'm working with a little girl that I think one day just may run the world. She is the most adorable creature, and is smart as a whip.Last week, I was working with her when she started telling me about how some of her friends' moms had hurt her mother's feelings. Beyond that, they told their kids they weren't allowed to play with her (because of the mother). Little J (I'll call her), who is in

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-38173885076089137522007-11-25T00:25:00.000-08:002007-11-25T00:46:28.299-08:00

This Thanksgiving was a bit more subdued than previous years, but with surprises nonetheless. I order my turkey from a local restaurant, which has been the tradition especially since I started teaching again. It just makes the holiday a little less stressful for me, and ensures a good turkey meal for the rest of the family. The turkey is always good, though, and it's even fun running to the

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-43040819466250906982007-11-18T01:02:00.000-08:002007-11-18T14:51:09.724-08:00

Here are some pics from the ballgame. We had the best time. There was a whole group of us (small compared to the rest of the stadium!) and as you can see everyone was pretty patriotic. We stood and sang the National Anthem, and we even sang "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" during the 7th inning stretch. Let me tell you, it was a close game. Taiwan was last at bat with bases loaded and a score of

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-84401829378276271242007-11-12T20:38:00.000-08:002007-11-12T20:41:30.217-08:00

Susie, over at Bluebird Blogs, put together this beautiful template for me. Does she have talent or what? I love her work, and was drawn to her site through Carol Feistal's blog. All I can say is that you know Susie's work when you see it. Susie, you've got a talent. I love that it loads quickly, it's homey and warm, which is just what I wanted, and it has a wonderful feel to it. AND, it's

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-16622464942809581682007-11-11T12:33:00.000-08:002007-11-11T12:48:21.668-08:00

Saturday Tim, the boys, and some friends (Timothy's best friend and dad) went to the US vs. Japan game. They had a blast, Christopher came home with a foul ball (AGAIN!) and got to get it signed by the player (who, he found out, will be moving to Tampa when this tournament is over....how fun is that?) and Timothy came home with one of the bats. They had a great time. Nathaniel came walking in

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-26455803229647982072007-11-01T16:00:00.000-07:002007-11-01T16:09:08.449-07:00

Well, we're in for a month full of fun. We have the Junior Carnival coming up, always lots of fun, and more importantly, we have the Taiwan vs. US baseball game just around the corner from our house. We're hoping to get on TV again, so we've prepared signs, and Big Dad will definitely be wearing his Spongebob shirt at some point. If we make it on TV, I'll be sure to post pictures. We may end

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14069634.post-48537947811735608742007-10-30T18:55:00.000-07:002007-10-30T18:58:29.418-07:00

It's Big Dad's latest greeting, and in his best cochney accent. We get it on the phone, on the intercom, when we come in a room. "It's quite charming, I must say." (think cochney again)

Lifelong Learnerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14657588478308425223noreply@blogger.com0