Proxsemadeni

Christmas 2011

2011-06-10T11:47:00.000-05:00

Giver - Receiver

Elena - Jac
Earl - Sarah
Jac - Susan
Susan - Earl
Sarah - Elena

Merry Christmas, everybody!

Psssst, Jacq

2009-03-29T23:19:00.005-05:00

Our wishlist is this: take whatever amount makes you happiest and put it towards the charity that makes you happiest. Toys for Tots is always a good fall-back plan.

And if you just have to send a package to the boy, he'd love one of your favorite children's books purchased to support your (new) local library. Dog eared and well read is fine with us! (Many local library have "friends" of the library book sales. It's a great way to feel good twice!)

270

2009-03-29T22:38:00.004-05:00

more days until Christmas!!!! I know! St. Pat's and Valentines Day are long gone and you still don't know who you're shopping for! Well, that's all about to change right now, missy, because there's a new sheriff in charge of this hat draw thingy and she's got time on her hands.

So.......

Lenka gets to get for Jacq
Sis gets to get for 'rah
'rah gets to get for Joe
Jacq gets to get for Sis
Joe gets to get for Lenka

YOU'RE WELCOME!

INFO shared and requested:

2009-01-10T20:47:00.003-05:00

OK, this un's for JAC!!

I want to pass on a statement that Daddy made to me on my wedding day:

As he walked me down the aisle... While the drunk trumpeter played, with a clear view of my husband to be, in front of Friends, Family and GOD,...

AS HE WALKED ME DOWN THE AISLE...

He repeatedly said, :

"IT'S NOT TOO LATE!

I CAN TAKE YOU RIGHT BACK WHERE WE STARTED!!"

Well, little sister, the same holds true for you.

But IF you insist on going through with making this lifetime commitment, and IF you are still planning for the ceremony to take place on June the 6th 2009, and IF you want witnesses' in the form of siblings, I for one, really need to start planning. I figure the other's are doing the same, so if you don't mind, would you please let me/us know:
1. at which airport do we need to arrive, (I assume Dallas/Fort Worth), or to what location do we need to drive?
2. What hotels/motels are in the vicinity that we'll be spending most of our time.
3. What do you expect the schedule to be and do we need to plan on being anywhere at any special time other than the wedding itself.
4. Is there anything that you would like for us to do?
5. Are there any activities for which we need to plan?

Any other info or suggestions you'd like to share would be appreciated, and I'll look forward to hearing from you by whatever method you prefer, phone, email, txt, blog, carrier pigeon... etc. And know this: we ARE so looking forward to sharing the moment with you!

Love you bunches, EE

2008-12-18T15:34:00.003-05:00

All is Calm, All is Bright...

Thanks to Sister Susie, this has been a complete joy to receive and display and I wanted to share with the rest of ya'll.

I absolutley love it and I love the thoughts that come to mind when I think of the things that this scene represents.

Many Blessings to one and all.

SNOW!

2008-11-30T15:50:00.002-05:00

Hey everyone,

Well I left Elena's last night at about 10 till 11, and headed north. This morning found me in Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. Right now I'm sitting in my new home (until 24 March); It's a balmy 32 degrees outside, snow falling (of course it's not cold enough to stick) and I'm having culture (climate?) shock.

In any event, I wanted to share my new address, seeing as how I will actually be here long enough to make the effort worth while.

2LT Me
4103 Sturgis Heights, Rm 109
Fort Leonard Wood, MO 65473-8840

I'm going to add a few pictures of my new room, mostly because it is like a palace (or at least a decent room at Motel 6) but it's all mine, no sharing, and I have my own fully (as in 2 pots, some pyrex, and 2 place settings) stocked kitchenette! I'm actually not sure what to do with all the space :-)

Love you all, I'll be trying to post regularly-ish
-Earl

Ok, upon further examination: I have no IDEA if the pictures uploaded, double uploaded, or flipped me the bird, because the ETHERNET internet here is slower than dial-up. Well, we'll see I suppose.

I know what YOU were doing...

2008-09-23T08:59:00.011-05:00

... 20 years ago today.

Momma was weepy, Daddy was sleepy

Jacq & Joe were so small.

BUT..

In spite of Dad acting goofy, and Jacqueline's lost toofy...

We all wound up having a ball!!

** just think, 20 yrs ago...

** The whole family still lived in Colorado, and now everyone's spread across the country

**Dad and Mom were younger than Roger and I are now - now they're GRANDPARENTS

** Joe was 3 - now he's headed for the ARMY

** Jacqu was 5 and missing a tooth - now she's a teacher and engaged

** Suze & 'rah were in their teens - now they're Mom's and Wives and have lived in Florida,

California, and Pennsylvania

** We've lived in California, New Jersey, Tennessee and Alabama

** We've got 3 nephews and 2 neices

And talk about looking young...

Check out MY guy!!!

So much has happened in 20 short years, and yet, somehow it doesn't seem possible that we've been so many places and done so many things. I'm so grateful for this life I've been Blessed to live. And I'm not only grateful for my wonderful husband but also for my wonderful family who has been there through it all!!

Hear ye, Hear ye, and Hark!!!

2008-08-26T10:54:00.003-05:00

In the days of summer in the year of 2008, a cry went out across the land for the Semadeni Siblings to gather.

… and it came to pass in the month of August that 3 of the 5 Semadeni Siblings who were of age came together in the land of Florida.

Much laughter, feasting, and carousing ensued, both on the land and in the sea. The time soon drew nigh that the Siblings gathered together in the chambers of the host to discuss many matters concerning the family. After much dishing/discussing, it was brought to light that a great fear was in each of them. And that fear was called “buying Christmas gifts for Husbands”. And the fear was growing, in so much as the chances were becoming probable that one family might be in the position at some time to have to buy gifts for 2 other husbands. And the fear was strong.

…and so, after much more talking and after hearing the cries and pleas of the other Siblings, the Eldest, who wore upon her fingers the sign of authority which was pink nails gilded with hot pink tips and polka dots, decided that in the years to come, the drawing of names would only include the Semadeni Siblings. Of course because none wanted the husbands to be entirely excluded, here after, it would be allowed that the gift could be considered as a Semadeni Sibling family gift if the gift-er so chose.

… and thus, the fear was overcome and happiness returned to the land. And much laughter, feasting and carousing ensued.

The decree went out that the 2008 gifting would be as follows:

Elena will “be-getting” something for Sarah
Susie will “be-getting” something for Elena
Sarah will “be-getting” something for Jacqu
Jacqu will “be-getting” something for Joe
Joe will “be-getting” something for Susie

So let it be written,
So let it be done!!!

(that is of course, if it's ok with everyone else?!!)

Rest of the Pix Arizona 5-2008

2008-06-27T09:17:00.014-05:00

Here are the rest of the pictures I took while in AZ. in May. I really wish I'd gotten pix of Susie Bubby and Josh, and Alex, Ayshia, and Cecilia, but I guess I just got caught up in the fun and forgot to keep the camera in my hand.

I'd been begging mom for several months, maybe even years to post some pix of the yard since Daddy and Earl did the Windmill etc. because I REALLY want to see what it looked like. Well, I guess it's true that if you want something done, you have to do it yourself... so even though it almost seems pointless to post something I've already seen and I suppose everyone else has seen too, at least I can say it's finally been posted!!!

By the way, it looks really good.

And here's Jonathan.

Earl and his pet hands

Sibs @ the Children's museum

Jacqueline's got a boyfriend.... na na na na na...

Jaque & Paul sittin' in a tree...

... and let me tell you when that dinosaur actually moved...

Yikes...

Hard to believe he's only 3!!

2008-06-16T09:07:00.016-05:00

... from

"'Lena, What's WOO-win?"

to "HOOH-AH!!"

My, how time flies!!!

Earl - aka: Little Bro - Gurgi - Joe - and now... SIR

"TR" & Jacqu

Swearing in - by Lt. Col. Gallagher

Pinning - by the short people

Sworn & Pinned

First Salute - by Papa

2nd Lieutenant United States Army

*****

Family and Friends

*****

Here's my all time favorite Picture of the mighty Soldier!!!!

I'm Proud of you Man!!

May God Bless you more abundantly than you could ever imagine

and may He protect you with his Mighty Power!!

Home Makeover - Bedroom edition 5-2008

2008-06-12T09:39:00.011-05:00

It was a wonderful trip, thanks to my Family!! I had a blast and can't wait to find a reason for us all to get together again!! Thought you might want to see some of the pix I took. I'm only including the pictures that don't have human faces in them, but if ya'll don't mind, I'd love to post some of the People Pix too, so let me know and I'll do it later. For now, here's what we actually accomplished besides eating too much...

Spiders and Snails and Puppy Dog Tails...

Spider Man would move in in a skinny spidey minute!! All we needed was some spider webs hanging from the corners, but hey, it's the boy's room, so I say give it time and it'll have plenty of webs and probably a few cooties if we're real lucky!!

Sugar and Spice and Flowers, sooo nice...

All this room needs is a couple of Susie's Unicorns and some live Fairies!! Hopefully no one has a bad case of allergies to estrogen, because this room is simply bursting with GIRL POWER and FLOWERS and BUTTERFLIES!!

******

And then here's the cake that Sarah bought,
Mom paid for (at first),
Susie, Jacqu, Elena & Earl shopped for,
and Daddy and Paul (AKA: Texas Red or simply TR) helped eat,
to celebrate little Brother's Commisioning.
Two Words: YUM MEEEE!!!!!

God Bless our Amazing Family!!!!

(p.s. let me know about posting the people pix!!)

(p.p.s. Mom, you gotta get Jacqu to post the vidoed "talent" portion of the evening)

The Wedding

2008-03-26T11:24:00.003-05:00

I know everyone wants answers....BUT I really have none still. Dates for the wedding are still pending, and I'm sorry to keep everyone waiting but its going to be a crazy ride.

In other news: the Commissioning is still 16MAY and everyone is still invited to that! Dress is 'business casual' or slacks/button up and the like. Nothing too formal, and there's no actual dress code, but that's what I'd wear (essentially, it's a graduation.)

If you need more details, let me know and I'll answer anything I can! We have a few beds at my house that people are welcome to, and I'll happily give up my bed also.

Love you All
Earl

Ew-Da-Lolly!

2007-11-25T11:38:00.001-05:00

1. Giftcards: Wal-Mart, Best Buy, Amazon.com, Half.com
2. Household Stuff: um...................yes please?
3. Music: See No. 1 The part about Amazon.com and Half.com.
4. Hobbies: Teaching. So, I would like some body bags, a bunch of bleach, maybe a hacksaw. :-)
Or, if you tend towards the less gruesome side of the hobby, music posters or
bulletin board boarders, or things along those lines.
5. Etc: surprise me! I like smelly bath-type stuff. Or simple jewelry - preferrably silver. Movies to replace the ones stolen from me. Don't worry about the titles, chances are I don't have it.

That's all I can think of right now.

I love you all!

Prop me Up, I'm LISTING...

2007-11-24T22:16:00.001-05:00

Wish List #2,345,876

Hey guys, just wanna be sure that NO ONE will be disapointed with whatever they get me for Christmas this year. No, seriously, that's just the kind of sister I am, always looking out for my Sibs. After all, Peace, Goodwill, and the joy of giving the perfect gift, Those ARE the reason for the season aren't they? And so, without further bull, I mean, ADO:

A. Gift Cards
Books*A*Million, Belk Hudson, Pet-co/smart/depot (any pet store is great), Target (we've finally got one close) or Goody's. Pedi/Mani-cure, I'd call Papeete's in Cullman and ask for Cindy Patton, or I've heard that Wal*mart does a good job too.

B. Household Stuff
Seriously, I'm totally in Love with the Willow Tree Angels, by Demdaco. I love them all, but I especially like the nativity scenes. (there are two different ones, and I love them both) (look at giftsandcollectibles.com) The face-less characters seem to just speak to me. Other than that,
I'd love to have a nice centerpiece for my table. Burke's florist here in Cullman knows exactly what I want, so a GC for them would be great.

C. Music
I would love to bring Chris Daughtry "home" for the holidays. I like a lot of the modern adult alternative stuff, (see Susie's list). I've found that I'm really liking Pink's stuff. Of course Vince Gill is always welcome in my house, and he has a new 4cd boxed set called "These Days" that is sure to be awesome. Allison Kraus, and Amy Grant are some of my faves and I'm a complete fan of the old stuff and would love to have some Don Williams, Jim Reeves, etc.

D. Hobbies
Ain't got none right now, the Movie has sucked all the "hobby" out of me.

E. ETC.
I absolutely loved the movie, Ratatouille. If whomever has my name has any connections, a San Fransisco Hoodie would be great. Any of the Danielle Steele books that I don't have. (Be sure to check with Mom, she's been trying to keep an eye out at the White Elephant and has done an amazing job. (I'll have an updated list to her tonight). And I think I'm finally ready to take on the responsibility for Chuck V (a beta fish for my office) since it's been a respectable 5 months since
Chuck IV went to... well... um, sleep with the fishes. (see GC for Pet???)

Other than that, I can't imagine what else I might possible wish for except a wonderful end to this seemingly interminable movie madness.... Yikes.

As for Roger, An elf told me that his has been taken care of. I guess Coal isn't too hard to come by these days... Ba-Da-ding!!

And that's all for now!! Hope all is well for each of you and I can't wait to see who actually looks at my list!!!

LOVE YA, EE

I give up!

2007-11-15T00:05:00.001-05:00

Time to resurrect Lenka's post from last year or start mailing out doilies from the local Christmas bazaar. They come in all colors, so don't think for a minute I can't find one for you. And if I don't have your name this year? Chances are good that I'll get it next year. Bwah-ha-ha-ha...

Ladies and Gentlemen! Start your wishlists!

Here's mine:

A. Gift cards – I love me some Target!
B. Household stuff – picture frames - with or without the pictures. Did you see pictures of the house*? You might guess that I have some wall space to fill up...
C. Music - Tom Petty, Sheryl Crow, Shawn Colvin, Coldplay, Sarah MacLachlan, Jack Johnson... (most artists catergorized as "adult alternative"). Currently I'm pining for anything by Diana Krall.
D. Hobbies - paper, stickers, glue sticks, markers, scissors... do I sound like an elementary school teacher or what?!
E. ETC. - SOCKS!!! Seriously? Lenka done good on the socks last year. I love, luv, lurve my comfy fuzzy rainbow smiley face socks! But there's always room in the drawer for a few more!

The better half:
A. Gift cards - REI, Best Buy, Lowes, Home Depot
B. Household stuff - CocaCola memorabilia
C. Music - Rap or R&B... let me know what you're thinking and I'll let you know if he's got it already!
D. Hobbies - home improvement (hey, he's making me write this list!), gardening, running
E. ETC. - travel/guide books

Your turn!

*More pictures to be posted, soon. Well, as soon as I can tunnel out of the boxes and remember that I'm supposed to be posting pictures. By Christmas ~~for sure~~ ~~maybe~~... 2008.

Your Attention, Please

2007-09-07T19:48:00.001-05:00

Please consider this your official reminder to get your tickets if you are planning to join the merriment at Camp Whatalottalovin (aka Lenka's) starting the weekend of October 13th!

Hurrican's a-comin'!

2007-09-03T10:28:00.000-05:00

Better get out those raincoats, galoshes and fancy rain fishermen's hats, drink up that last finger of scotch and tie yourself to something stable; it's gonna get interesting in here.

Dad's been composing Blog Posts in his sleep.

I'll see you on the flip side.

Whoda thunk it?

2007-07-31T13:54:00.000-05:00

Driving through Amish country last weekend we encountered scenes like this:

and this:

And then we came across this:

Apparently they do exist!

Cackleberries?
But Mommy said Grandpa just made those up!

2007-07-09T10:48:00.000-05:00

I'm LONELY....

I'm Oh SO LOWN-LEEEEE

All of my Fam-leeee,

has gone aaawaaaay...

(AAAHHH-OOOOOOOOOOOOOOO)

Seriously, I can't believe it's over!! We had such a wonderful time, and once again I am reminded of how extrememly BLESSED we are to have such a family. I hope that we will continue to work and plan so that we can look forward to many many more amazing memories being added.

Love and Kisses to you all!! EE

Write me!

2007-07-05T21:00:00.002-05:00

So, as you all know, I leave tomorrow to get locked down for 34 days... I can already tell you that i will be STARVING for contact, letters, newspaper clippings, anything at all to get my mind of the drudgery of 'Warrior Forge.' so please write me!!!!

Earl Semadeni
ROTC Warrior Forge
10th Regiment, Bravo Company, 4th Platoon
Box 339543
Fort Lewis, WA 98433-9543

P.S. Baked goods, jerkey, and other such things count as contact with or without notes. Just snd enough for 12-40 people :-D

Love you all, back August 7!

-e (little E)

Bloggerus Interruptus

2007-06-28T00:40:00.000-05:00

Hey, genetic derivatives, as soon as I get finished with this entry, I am going to up-pack this G5 and in the morning it will ride with us. Jacqueline was having withdrawal symptoms, and I just want to do something a bit eccentric, for a change. My laptop will require an even more expansive lap than the clock will a mantel. Anyway, it'll do you all good to get to touch a Mac.
Love to all, Vaya con Dios. PapaSem

Can We Get A Final Head Count?

2007-06-27T09:36:00.000-05:00

Pretty Please?? So I know how many we are feeding? Thanks a bunch!

I'll start:

5 Greens....

Time in space continuing

2007-06-27T00:30:00.000-05:00

I thought I'd-mentioned da dimensions. W32", H14", D8". As I said, needs a big space for time to continue in.
To elaborate on my comment to Elena, photo's is possessive, not plural. plural possessive would be photos'. singular is photon, and photon is singular. They do, however, like to bundle. No bed, no board, just a qwuarky sight to behold. I hope this is enlightening to you, but that you are never in lightening. Vaya con Dios, Love, PapaSem

All-right already!!!

2007-06-26T09:42:00.000-05:00

5 X 7

works for me too!!!

that's "webdings" for:

5 X 7

works for me too!!

:-)

ClockPics

2007-06-25T04:34:00.001-05:00

The Clock

2007-06-24T22:59:00.000-05:00

Susie et al;
I told you the other day about the clock I had built. If I can successfully navigate this arcane system of communication, I will include the pictures of it. I figure it should be worth $500, I've got about twenty hours into it, along with about $175 parts. I'd make more if I can get parts - the wood is local Mesquite, and the face is hand-sawn. All-in-all it was fun to do. I think I will name this one "Storm Cloud over the Santa Ritas", unless someone has a better title. Halene says it looks like a rabbit, and I kinda see a coyote howling over its shoulder. It needs a big mantle to sit on, as you can see from its size comparable to the organ.
I tried, lemme know if you gottem. Vaya Con Dios, PapaSem

Hi, Daddy!

2007-06-24T19:35:00.000-05:00

Nah-nah-nah nah-nah nah!

I'm the first one to say "Hi" to Daddy!

RE: Strings on fingers

2007-06-23T13:55:00.000-05:00

For the eleventy-five-billionth time...

WHAT SIZE OF PICTURES
DO YOU ALL WANT??????!!!!!!!

Just a little string on the finger...

2007-06-22T08:44:00.000-05:00

I SHUTTER to bring this up again, but...

PUH-LEEEZE

DON'T FORGET THE PHOTOS!!!

FINE!!

2007-06-21T09:41:00.000-05:00

FINE BY ME, SARAH STEWART!!

oh, and good luck with those carrots :-) !!!

(wal*mart makes REALLY cute little frosting carrots to put on THEIR cakes, but whatever you want to do...)

I realized that I need to let you all know about the meals for our day, WEDNESDAY!! Don't know why everyone needs to know in advance, Beeeee-cause... (big breath)

"If I have to sweat over a hot stove all day long to prepare meals for your lazy butts, then you're just going to have to like it or lump it. what was that?... don't make me come over there!! No, you can't have desert before you finish your veggies... I DON'T care if you don't like veggies, they're good for you. ESPECIALLY the carrots!! No not the frosting carrots that go on carrot cake, the real carrots. Have you EVER seen a rabbit with glasses?...."

Oh wow, that was scary! Anyway, here's the plan for now:

Breakfast

Whatever anyone actually feels like eating before the BIG run, or (little walk as the case may be) I'm going to see what Susie suggests as far as what's good to keep the maximum energy levels up.

Lunch

Since we'll be out and about anyway, I'm thinking that there will be vendors for the 4th of July festivities, or we'll do something like Subway!!

Supper/Dinner

We're going to buy PIZZA!!!!

Forget the homemade betty crocker stuff. Sarah "stewart" can make up for it with her gourmet meal on thursday!! (sounds delish by the way)

Yep, you heard me, pizza, cokes (any flavor you want) popcorn and movies, and I think I'll make a ooey gooey choclatey little debbie cake!!

In other words, we're going the JUNK FOOD route!!

Yay Me!!!

I WIN!!!

BTW, Great idea about the mixed fridge-leftover-clean 'em up day on Friday, Suze!!!

Where DO you come up with these ideas?

:-)

Burp!

2007-06-20T23:11:00.000-05:00

Carrot cake it is! But it's your job (unless you want to delegate to Ms. $17.29) to go pick all the little carrots for the top. Make sure that you clean them, and leave the tops on, please! :) Okay, so maybe not....

Carrot sounds fine, but do you have a second choice, just in case I can't find a mix that can be reasonably altered to impersonate carrot?

Thanks for the Walmart suggestion, Lenka, but since it's my night to cook dinner (and btw, we are prolly going to switch from Friday meals to Thursday, to better facilitate our travel plans, and so that Friday can be a general left-over day. Hey, don't shoot me....it was Susan's idea!) Anyway...

Since it is my night to cook, and I had the bright idea of using Jacq's upcoming birthday as the excuse du jour for eating ginormous quantities of cake (not that we need an excuse, but excuses can be fun!) , I have decided that I am going to make, and decorate, the cake. I didn't pay all that $$ on cake classes just to hire Walmart, LOL! Not to say I'll do much of anything terribly fancy--and you can scrape off the cream cheese icing if you dare--but I do wanna make the cake.

I'm planning to use a mix simply because I don't know how the kitchen will be stocked, and I don't care to buy or bring all the separate ingredients necessary. I may already have to leave one of the kids behind in order to have room for my cake decorating supplies, LOL!

I promise, if the oven is reasonably functional, the "BOX (shudder) cake" will be at least somewhat edible. ;-)

"eh....what's up, doc?"

2007-06-20T20:15:00.000-05:00

Ok, the votes are in and the results are:

(trumpets blaring)

get out of here, chad.

Ok. CARROT CAKE!!!!! mmmmmm.

With, of course, ooey, gooey cream cheese frosting and little frosting orange and green carrots on every piece.

You owe me $17.29. You know who you are. :-)

2007-06-19T10:08:00.000-05:00

Well,... Now, if THAT doesn't just take the CAKE...

It appears that she wants to have her CAKE and to eat it too!! But it's OK with me, 'cause it'll be a CAKE-walk no matter which flavor of CAKE we have!! I say just CAKE it on there and we'll all enjoy it!!

... HEY, it really does work... I have NO IDEA what CAKE means now, either!!!

COOOL!!!

(P.S. the recipe in the picture makes the most awesomeist cake EVER!!!)

CAKE

2007-06-19T08:54:00.000-05:00

CAKE!!!! CAKE! cake cake cake cake cake cake.

I *heart* cake.

mmmmmmm cake.

Oh, um. I don't care what kind, but since I get to pick, I will be taking money (OBO) for cake choices.

cake. cake.

cakecakecakecake

cake.

News from The Weird....

2007-06-09T18:39:00.000-05:00

...Sister, that is!

First things first: Earl, I have been intending to make a comment on your method of name drawing.....it totally cracked me up, and of course, I would expect nothing less from you. I keep coming back here with the intention of leaving a witty, clever comment, but then I read it again and my jaw goes slack and i end up cleaning drool out of the keyboard, LOL! Anyway, thanks for the laugh, even though it was the uncomfortable kind of social laugh that generally indicates that one has absolutely no comprehension whatsoever, but still wants to avoid looking entirely stupid.....you know that laugh, right? The same one you use when Jacq makes a music-nerd joke! Yeah, that one.

heheheh...

Second, we are so looking forward to July! I can't wait for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, and if I have to struggle through Wednesday in order to get to those other days, well, so be it! Looks as if some fool* put us in charge of Friday's meals, so following Susan's example of "full disclosure" (is that a fancy way of saying "eat at your own risk?") here's a preliminary menu plan:

Breakfast: If everyone is super nice to me and doesn't tease me about my finish time (indeed, if everyone pretends to be suitably impressed with my "outstanding effort"), then I might be persuaded to break from the continental trend and bake breakfast quiche. Lenka, that's "keeesh" to you, not "quicky".

Lunch is going to be a bit more haphazard. Prolly more in the way of cold-cuts or leftovers or buy your own (we'll provide at least basic sandwich stuff, but you'll have to provide the prep work).

I promise to make up for lunch with dinner....I'm thinking pasta (I have a fantastic recipe I think everyone will like!) and shrimp, salad. garlic bread, etc. I think there's enough Italian in all of us to make that work rather nicely. For dessert, I propose Birthday cake in honor of Jacq. Not because she's special, but just because she provides a good excuse to have cake. Jacq, lemme know what kind of cake you'd like. You can have any flavor your sweet little heart desires...as long as Duncan Hines puts it in a box! :)

Any food aversions or allergies I need to know about?

* er, um, that'd be me, I s'pose....

Christmas Names.

2007-06-02T15:00:00.000-05:00

I like to make things complicated. And you all have to follow my thought process, I'm the baby after all, and you HAVE to love me. SO:

To determind Christmas Names, I used Excel.

First, I listed everone's names, and using the RANDBETWEEN (which returns a random number from a specified range; in this case 1-8) Gave everyone a number.

Since there are double 3's, and we have a 4 but no 5, Jaqueline becomes 5. Also, because she is his better half, Sarah retains rights to 6, bumping Michael to 8.

Then, taking each person, 1-8 (in numerical order) and using the RADNBETWEEN function again (discarding duplicates,) we return a value (1-8) for each person, i.e. the gift-ee.

SO:
Roger - Earl
Earl - Susan
Susan - Michael
Josh - Elena
Jacqueline - Roger
Sarah - Josh
Elena - Sarah
Michael - Jacqueline

Note: I had taken a bunch of really cool screen shots of me doing all this, but have decided I'm too lazy to publish them on here...

RE: Groceries, meals, and dishes pictures (oh my!)

2007-05-30T12:56:00.000-05:00

There seems to be some general confusion as to who's going to feed us what and when once we get to the Cottage. So, in true administrative fashion, I called Ma and here's how it's gonna go:

Lenka can have Wednesday. Let's face it, none of us is brave enough to stand up to her.
Ma will happily provide breakfast for us all, provided that your definition of breakfast = cold cereal, a bagel, and perhaps a banana or two. Think "continental".
Instead of schlepping lunch meat and the like all the way from AZ, Ma is going to bring along $150 in grocery money. If the meals you are planning include a cooking portion, bring your grocery list and we'll spend Ma's money first!
If the meals you are planning DO NOT include a cooking portion (i.e. you're researching where the nearest Subway is), give us all a heads up. I think that it is only reasonable for us to each pay for our meals out, but advance notice of such plans gives us the ability to come prepared with either cash or a back-up plan.
Edited to add: One more thing -- what size picture does everyone want? I'm putting my vote in for 4X6's (but I haven't gotten my frames yet, so I could be persuaded...)

In the interest of full disclosure, my meals will be as follows:

Tuesday night: Something on the grill (Burgers? Hot dogs?), some sort of pasta salad (carbs for Wednesday morning!), possibly some corn on the cob, and some sort of fruit (watermelon if I can find it).
Saturday morning: Breakfast, ~~Continental~~ Ma-style
Saturday lunch: Ham and cheese sandwiches, chips, and some sort of salad. Since check out time is 11am, I'm inviting you all to the park. I'll let you know which one when we get there.

WHOOP WHOOP!! ALERT!!! WHOOP WHOOP!!!

2007-05-24T21:20:00.000-05:00

SHIELDS UP AND TO YOUR STATIONS!!

THERE HAS BEEN A SEVERE SECURITY BREACH ABOARD THE BLOGSHIP PROXSEMADENI!! ******

And here's how I know... After having not visited the blog for some time now, so as not to torture myself wtith the inevitable guilt of seeing those awesome weekly training schedules, and knowing that they were falling on deaf eyes with me, I finally decided that I could avoid it no more. So I read Sis' most recent blog and noticed that as usual she has done a marvelous job of organizing and planning for our upcoming trip. (I'm so totally excited, by the way!!) And as I read and imagined how much fun we're going to have, I noticed a small error on her part. No big deal, really, she had just mentioned that I had asked to do the meals for Thursday, when in reality, I clearly remember having dibs on Wednesday. I thought that was odd and certainly didn't want the rest of you to be mis-lead, so I decided to clarify the situation by responding to the blog in question. BUT FIRST, I did the responsible thing and went back to the former blog in which the meal dates had been listed, just so that I could quote the date of the blog as proof of the error.

AND THAT'S WHEN I REALIZED THAT SOME ONE, OR SOME THING, HAD HACKED INTO THE SYSTEM AND CHANGED MY DATE TO THURSDAY!!

HORROR, HORROR, HORROR!!!

RUNN, GRAB YOUR CHILDREN AND GO FAR FAR....

Ok, so she was right. I had originally called Thursday, but if it won't cause any problems for anyone else, I'd really like to change my day to Wednesday. I'm bringing some frozen stuff and really don't want to have to re-freeze and then thaw it back out on Thursday!! If it IS a problem, then I invoke the rights of the BIGGEST SISTER to override any sibling objections. If Mom has a problem..., well then..., I GIVE, she scares me!!!

A couple more things that I wanted to mention to one and all:

1. First, Susan once again, the check is in the mail!!! (well, it will be tomorrow anyway)

2. Jaq, I'm going to go ahead and pay the pet deposit. I know that you're most likely NOT bringing Ms. Diesel, and there's a more than likely a good chance that we're not bringing the big black disaster aka Jiro, but just in case we wind up changing our minds, it'll be taken care of. Susan already checked and we can get a refund if we show up canine challenged.

3. ON 3 NOW, everyone say CHEEEEEZE!!!! DO NOT FORGET THE FAMILY FOTO'S!!! That means individual photo's of Jaq & Joe too!! I'm not saying they have to be professionally done, but DO try to get a good quality picture that shows us, YOU!! It really is time for some updates!!

4. Mom, I think someone mentioned you doing the breakfasts, and even though it would be extremely hard to actually get to visit with you without having some hot, fresh from the oven, famous Halene Semadeni, cinnamon rolls with our coffee on a balmy North Carolina morning... I'd really like to put my vote in for just doing the sweet roll & coffee, or cold cereal, milk and coffee, or leftovers AND COFFEE!! It seems to me that no one needs to have to get up early enough in the morning to MAKE breakfast. And that way everyone can kinda just wake up and wander in at their own leisure!!! Of course, if you just WANT TOOO....

5. Here's the biggee!! I've saved it for last because I'm afraid that it'll get me voted off the island, and I'm sooo looking forward to this get-together!! Here goes...

MOOOOMMM, SUSIE's TALKING SMACK!!!!

Here in the south, they say "IF YUR SKEERED, SAY YUR SKEERED!!" well, I'M SKEERED!! After all that smack about the 5k, I realized that I'm probably not going to make it. I think I could, but I really don't want to have to hear the stories for years to come about all the colors my face would go through while I tried to keep oxygen flowing to my lungs, and the sounds of joints cracking and moaning... so I've decided that I'm going to register for the 1 mile fun walk. Actually, I probably would have tried to stay the course, except that Roger actually volunteered that he'd probably enjoy walking the mile with the group. He wouldn't even consider jogging the 5k, so ONCE AGAIN, I picked him over you all!! He's just THAT good!!!

ANYWAY, that's all the input I can think of for tonight. I do want to say in all seriousness... I AM SO EXCITED ABOUT THIS TRIP AND I'M COUNTING THE DAYS UNTIL WE GET TO HUG NECKS AND JUST SOAK UP THE PROXSEMADENI!! LOVE TO YOU ALL!!!

On your marks..........

2007-05-17T19:47:00.000-05:00

Just a few housekeeping points:

Our final payment to Oakland Cottages for our July reservation is due on June 3rd -- just a little over 2 weeks away. Each family owes a total of $405, less any payments that you've already made. This amount does not include any portion of the $90 pet fee.
Will our furry friends be joining us? Lenka & Jacq, let me know so that I tell the folks at Oakland Cottages what to expect!
KP Duty: 'rah signed up for Friday's meals, Lenka called dibs on lunch on Thursday (we're gonna give her breakfast and dinner that day, too. We're just generous that way). I'm covering Tuesday's dinner and breakfast and lunch on Saturday. Jacq, you and Ma get to fight over who's responsible for getting us fed on Wednesday!
Everyone who is running needs to register to participate. You can do this a couple of different ways:
1. Sign up at active.com From their website:
This is the 14th Annual Kiwanis Firecracker 5K Run and 1 Mile Fun Walk. It is sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of North Buncombe. Proceeds are used for scholarships to college for Seniors at the local high school. We thank you for your support!
-Firecracker 5K Run: $15.00
-Firecracker 1 Mile Fun Walk: $15.00
-Late Registration From Jun. 20 until July 2: $20.00
-T-Shirt guaranteed to persons who pre-register by July 2, 2007.

2. Email me and ask me to email Rona and ask her to send you a registration form (which will have the necessary instructions on it).
3. Email me and ask me to sign you up through active.com.
Please understand that if you ask me to do this, you are giving me permission to intial a waiver of liability (with your initials!) and to provide active.com with information such as your address and your birthdate. This is standard information that they need to verify that participants know what they are signing up for and to keep their noses clean in case of injury, etc. during the event. This information is also requested if you choose to request a "paper application" from Rona instead of signing up online. You will also need to add the $15 registration fee PER PERSON to the total that you owe! Kiddos in strollers do not need to register.
Don't forget to bring a copies of your family picture! What size did we all agree on?
Yes, you can sign up for the 1 mile walk. If you want to be a sissy baby and spoil all the fun. By all means, walk, weenie, walk. We'll see you at the finish line.
Let's remember that this is a family event, something intended to include everyone and make us all feel closer as a group. But if someone wants to start talking smack, I'll be happy to school you on the Fourth. I'm just sayin'.

That's all I've got... please add if you think of anything I left out!

P.S. Check out the countdown clock over there -------------> in the sidebar (actually, it's up at the top, but I can't figure out how to do an up arrow.). Cool, huh?

Week Whatever-the-heck-we're-on...

2007-04-13T22:16:00.000-05:00

Anyone out there still following the training schedule? According to my calculations, we're coming up on week 39! So for those of you playing along:

At least 3 days this week:

Warm-up walk: 5 minutes
Stretch
Run: 39 minutes
Walk: 5 minutes
Cool down walk: 5 minutes
*Total time = 49 minutes

All in favor of coming up with a "Help! I fell off the schedule and now there's no way on God's green Earth I'm running 39 consecutive mintues but I'd like to believe I can catch up and no one will be any the wiser when we all get together in 10 weeks" plan? Never fear! Cool Running has a training plan that will have you sparking along at the Firecracker 5K!

And.... We're Back.

2007-04-05T09:02:00.000-05:00

Scheeeee-woooo! It is DUSTY in here!!! And a little musty. Do I detect a faint odor of neglect? Let's get a window or two opened... blow the dust off the ole keyboard... hmmm. Socks. Wonder who those belong to. Anyone missing a pair of socks? Anyone? Anyone? No? Okay, well, not important. Now then, on to business.

Hi!

I decided to put off procrastinating for a day or two and got some administrative work done yesterday, including a phone call to Oakland Cottage. Yay, me! So, without further ado, here are the long awaited answers to your burning questions. Drumroll, please.....

Are there grounds that we can “play” on?
Oakland Cottage has a huge backyard that has been a popular draw for the younger set in the past. They don't have a problem with us staking out a croquet course, although I was warned that there is a bit of a slope. Of course, I figure that a slope just gives me something to blame my inability to hit the ball in any sort of straight line...

Is there a BBQ grill available for us to use?
Yup, two of 'em.

I see on your home page that some of your properties are equipped with DVD players – is Oakland Cottage one of them? Is there a VCR available?
Yup again. Two DVD players and a VCR. There is no "TV viewing" room, though, so movies would need to be watched in our rooms.

When we booked Oakland Cottage, two of my sisters had the intention of bringing along their dogs (both would be crated during the day if not with us) and we agreed to the $90 pet fee. If they choose not to bring the dogs, would that fee be refunded to us? How much advance notice do you need for us to make such a change?
There is no problem with refunding the pet deposit. If the decision is made before we make our final payment (due June 3rd), they will simply deduct that amount from the total owed. If the decision is made last minute, they will work out the refund with us. Those of you NOT considering bringing along critters, don't have to worry about this at all -- room costs were all calculated without the $90 fee.

Other minutia:

I emailed Rona this morning to remind her to send us applications for this year's Firecracker 5K. (Yeah, that's right. We're still running this thing. Hey, don't shoot the messenger -- it was all 'rah's idea! Seriously. Just look at that post. About halfway down.... riiiiiiight there. And I quote,"Two more years to prepare for a real race. Seriously. Maybe a 5K or something...". That's right. SHE did this to you.) I will send out the application info when I get it.

Thanks to all of you who paid the first installment towards our lodging. Those of you who haven't yet had a chance to get a check to me, your total due (before June 3rd) is $202.67.

We will make a final payment to Oakland Cottage on June 3rd in the amount of $1058.37. Less the pet deposit, that works out to another payment of $202.67 per family. I will take care of the total by credit card, so you can just send me your portion.

I think that about covers it. If any of you come up with any additional questions, please don't hesitate to ask!

SAY CHEEEEEZE!!!

2007-02-13T10:42:00.000-05:00

Hey guys,

Don't forget to have the family photo's taken sometime before JULY!! We want to be able to pass them out when we all get together.

Luv you all!!

Da Bears

2007-02-10T21:24:00.000-05:00

Here are the pictures of the Christmas Bears. I've only included a few. I'll put the rest on Yahoo and send you all an invite to see them.

Ma Bear

Ma 'n Pa Bears

Lenka Bear

Tony Bear

Sis and Little Guy Bears

'Rah, Chip, Grrl & Ooroo Bears

Jacq Bear

G.I. Joe Bear

Baby John Bear

Lenka says:

2007-02-06T14:57:00.000-05:00

Sis' BEARS are...

wait for it....

wait...

BARE!!!!!

WAAAAHAAAHAAAA, TEEE HEEE HEEE, HAHAHAHAAH!!!!!

can't think of a clever title

2007-02-06T12:56:00.000-05:00

Ok, I have the pictures of the bears. I have about a million of them. (SIS, yours are still ...sorry!). I will post them on here as soon as I get my new computer (the black one), because, quite frankly, I don't think my old one can handle the strain of being connected to the internet, AND having to upload pictures. I think might explode. Or wilt. Or both.

Week 29 (Feb 4-10)

2007-02-05T12:25:00.000-05:00

At least 3 days this week:

Warm-up walk: 5 minutes
Stretch
Run: 15 minutes
Walk: 5 minutes
Run: 14 minutes
Walk: 1 minutes
Cool down walk: 5 minutes
*Total time = 45 minutes

Already finished with your workout? Want to do something else running related? Stretch your brain and run around Google a bit for the answers to this. See, running IS a mind/body workout!

OH, OH, LET ME!! PUH-LEEEEZE LET ME!!!...

2007-02-01T10:58:00.000-05:00

'rah,

Here's how to put pix up:

Whilst (I love that word) creating a new post, be sure you're in the "compose" mode. Then look up at the top of the post window where you have the option to choose your fonts, sizes of letters, colors, etc. You'll see a little icon that looks like a picture of a landscape. Blue and gray, kinda like a mountain sceen. Click on that! Then it'll open a window that says "Add an image". click on the button that says: "Browse". This puts you back into your computer and you can find your pix wherever they are and then choose the one you want and double click it. It'll take you back to the "add an image" window. go to the bottom and click on the button that says "upload image". then just wait until you have the option to click the button that says "done".

Click it, and VOILA!!!! There you go!!

NOW I EXPECT TO SEE PIX OF THE MUNCHKINS BY MONDAY!!!!!

Oh, and thanks for giving me an excuse to share another picture of Jiro!!

Also, Momma, I'll give you permission to use these instructions also!! We'd love to see the new front yard too!!

One last thing; Sis and Jacq, please feel free to override and correct these instructions if need be. I will be the first to claim blogger illiteracy!!

Love to you all, EE

You've GOT to be kidding!! Right??

2007-01-31T23:58:00.000-05:00

You really expect me to commit to a menu 6 months in advance, when it took me until 2:30 this afternoon to finally come up with a game plan for tonight's dinner???

Dang, girl, what alien kidnapped you and sucked all that Semadeni procrastination DNA out of your genes? LOL!

Actually, I'm just kidding; I wanted to call dibs on Friday's meals. Well, lunch and dinner at least, if Mom's doing breakfast. But I'm fine with taking care of Friday breakfast too, so just put us down for the whole day if you want! :)

Just don't ask what we'll be cooking, because I have no clue....

Hey, Sis, when you have a chance to ask about the yard/croquet/etc., would you mind asking if they have a BBQ grill available for us to use? That might make our dinner plans easier, LOL!

WRT paying you: do you have a paypal account, and if so, would that be a good way to pay, or would you prefer a check via mail? I don't really care which way we do it, but paypal would be instant and secure, so if that's convenient for you, that'd be cool. I'll try to give you a call tomorrow; I've been meaning to call you this week anyway!

New topic: Is anyone besides me really wanting to see pictures of the Teddy Bear family?? Mama, I seem to remember you promising to make Joe or Jacq post some pictures on here! :) And, if I had some step-by-step (ie, talk to me like I just stepped off the really short bus!) help, I might be pursuaded to post some pictures of the munchkins, too! (I know, Lenka, I still haven't sent you pictures of the kids in their Christmas gifts! Bad me!)

Lenka says:

2007-01-29T15:58:00.000-05:00

DIBS!!!!

I call DIBS on Thursday's Lunch. We're having SALAD!! NO MUSHROOMS!!!

I thought Mom was going to do the BREAKFASTS?!!!

... But if not, I'll bring the Capn' Crunch, Lucky Charms and Froot Loops!! (that would be Roger, Jacq, & Heather!!! HA HA HA) And SUPPER will be POP CORN, POP TARTS, & POP, (er, wait, let's see, where will we be? N.C. yep, then I mean COKE!!) ...and left overs from whatever Susie does on Tuesday!!

Is this getting exciting or WHAT?!! I can hardly wait!! In fact, I'm quite simply GIDDY!!!!

OH yea, and Sis...

THE CHECK'S IN THE MAIL!!!! (TEE HEEE HA HAA HA!!) No, seriously, maybe not today, but it'll be on the way THIS WEEK!!

Love to you all!! EE

RE: Arrangements, etc.

2007-01-29T12:54:00.000-05:00

Going with a 5 way split (less $45 for the first half of the $90 pet fee), the current amount due from each "family" comes to

($1058.67 - $45) / 5 = $202.67

An additional $202.67 will be due from each "family" before we get to Oakland Cottage (the entire cost of the rental is due one month in advance of our visit). Those of you interested in bringing pets drop me a line and we'll work out the pet deposit thing.

Rooms: Jacq and Lenka weighed in on their room choices. As long as there are no written objections, we'll bunk according to their wishes!

Food: Everyone seems to be on board with the "plan the meal(s) for the day suggestion", so let's pick our days. I think that letting the responsible parties decide on whether we are treated to a big lunch or a big dinner is a fair way to handle that controversy. I volunteer to take on Tuesday's dinner and Saturday's breakfast/lunch. That leaves us 3 full days (Weds, Thurs, and Fri)to plan for -- who wants 'em?

Entertainment: I still haven't gotten around to calling Oakland Cottages to see if they have a yard and games (croquet, badminton, etc) for it. I will do that as soon as we get back from our trip to CA. I will also ask them if they have TV/VCR/DVD equipment available. It will be my pleasure to introduce you all to the delightful game of Scum... rubs hands together gleefully, anticipating at least one round of rising to at least the rank of Citizen...

The information on the 5K should be coming out in the next couple of months. I will pass that on as soon as I get it!

I think that brings the blog up to current in terms of decisions that we've made/still need to be made. Please post if I've overlooked anything or if you come up with something else we need to consider!

Week 28 (Jan 28 - Feb 3)

2007-01-28T19:58:00.001-05:00

At least 3 days this week:

Warm-up walk: 5 minutes
Stretch
Run: 14 minutes
Walk: 5 minutes
Run: 14 minutes
Walk: 1 minutes
Cool down walk: 5 minutes
*Total time = 44 minutes

Ready for something new? Check out RTP (Run The Planet) for new trails in your area (or someone elses!)

Lenka says...

2007-01-23T15:19:00.000-05:00

I would say I'm Jealous, but then I'm afraid Mom would come back with something like...

"you could put forth more effort and come see us and then we could spend some quality time with you too"!!

... and then I'd have to come up with an explanation for not doing what I'd like to do and it would probably have something to do with hemorhoids and working, and that would just sound lame, so...

I just want to say that it makes my HEART HAPPY to know that my family still LOVES in spite of the lack of proxsemadeni!! And I'm SOOO glad you guys had such a good time!!!

Dear Momma and Daddy,

2007-01-23T10:40:00.001-05:00

Just wanted to send you a quick "Thanks" for all the time you spent with us while we were out there. You'll never know how much it filled up my heart to see the two of you playing with my little guy. Sniffle, sniffle. We had an amazing time and can't wait to see you in July! I love you so much!!!!

Love,
Sis

He speaks

2007-01-11T20:53:00.000-05:00

Ok everyone, i will know around the end of febuary what my summer schedule will be...stay tuned.

Yes Ma'am Ms. Semadeni, Ma'am!!

2007-01-10T11:12:00.000-05:00

OK, so now that Baby sister's a REAL teacher and all, she thinks she can run the world!!! I can't believe how quickly she's turned. Oh well, just so long as she never forgets that....

I'M STILL THE BIG SISTER AND THE BOSS OF ALL OF YOU!!!!

And with that in mind, I'm going to add my two cents!!

ah-hem...

Here goes...

YEAH!!! WHAT SHE SAID!!!!!

to break it down into my vote:

1. sleeping arrangments - I think that's perfectly done. And I think it's a GREAT idea to know where we're going before we get there so we don't stand around replaying the scene from the jungle book ("whatchoo wanna do? I dunno, whatchoo wanna do? I dunno...")

2. Food- again, perfect!! I especially like the idea of the big meal being lunch. Then we can snack and leftover for supper. That means popcorn for Daddy!!

3. Animals- I'm totally EXPECT to take care of my own. Ok, and Jacq's if she's really nice to me.

4. Entertainment - whatever I bring will most likely be a "BORED GAME", but I'll try to play along. And we LOVE the thoughts of hiking and being outdoors. Just remember it'll be HOT and HUMID!!!

Bottom line, I'M SOOO EXCITED!! Hope everyone else is too!!! So until next time...

"...and that's all I got to say 'bout that!!!" (Forest Gump)

Arrangements, etc

2007-01-09T19:49:00.000-05:00

Split of cost: Let's go 5 ways. Since we've been dealing with those numbers already anyway, we might as well keep it consistent. :-)

Sleeping arrangements:

We have 4 suites and roughly 4 families (if joe does come, I guess he can have the couch).

Mom and dad are bringing the majority of the people, so give them the big suite, which looks to me like the Garden Suite

Lenka already called dibs on Rose Suite, and since there are 2 rooms, I'll bunk in there. That way we have the dogs confined to a single area.

'rah and Co are bringing the next most, so give them the Music Suite cuz it has a day and trundle bed, which is perfect for the kiddies.

And that leaves the Safari Suite for Sis, etc, which is only fitting, seeing as how they are the only ones who have actually been on a Safari.

Food.
I can go any way with the split of this. I do like the idea of one of the meals being a lighter, more left-over style, but if I had to choose one, I would pick the big meal to be lunch and lighter to be dinner. The only reason is cuz by the end of the day we'll be tired and won't wanna take the time for an elaborate meal, but if we have a big lunch, then we older ones can just kind of pick and choose for dinner. It would be nice for every family to do the one meal a day or one day of meals thing, but just know that mine will probably end up being something lame, like take-out or, if I decide to go really fancy, you might get boiled water. But that's about it.

Aminals:
I would say, and I think that Lenka would agree, that she and I will be splitting the pet costs. Unless, of course, Joe comes. Then he'll have to pitch in for himself. :-) (yeah, I went there.)

Entertainment:
Each family is required to bring one board/card game. I call dibs on Uno. Diesel and I will also be doing some outdoors hiking and stuff and I would love it if you all would come along. It will be great to see some pretty nature that doesn't include cacti. I will bring my collection of G-rated movies for the chilluns and if you want me to bring something with a higher rating for after they go to bed, just let me know. Does anybody have a croquet set?

Joe Suggests: Chihuahua punting. All in favor?

That's all I have for now. If you don't like the suggestions, that's ok, but I just thought I would put this out there and that way we have a somewhat formed plan that we can then change as needed.

Weeks 24, 25, 26, & 27 (Dec 31- Jan 27)

2007-01-09T13:07:00.000-05:00

At least 3 days each week:

Week 24
Warm-up walk: 5 minutes
Stretch
Run: 12 minutes
Walk: 5 minutes
Run: 12 minutes
Walk: 3 minutes
Cool down walk: 5 minutes
*Total time = 42 minutes

Week 25
Warm-up walk: 5 minutes
Stretch
Run: 13 minutes
Walk: 5 minutes
Run: 12 minutes
Walk: 3 minutes
Cool down walk: 5 minutes
*Total time = 43 minutes

Week 26
Warm-up walk: 5 minutes
Stretch
Run: 13 minutes
Walk: 5 minutes
Run: 13 minutes
Walk: 2 minutes
Cool down walk: 5 minutes
*Total time = 43 minutes

Week 27
Warm-up walk: 5 minutes
Stretch
Run: 14 minutes
Walk: 5 minutes
Run: 13 minutes
Walk: 2 minutes
Cool down walk: 5 minutes
*Total time = 44 minutes

So much for weekly training posts, hmmmm?

Got it!

2007-01-08T14:17:00.000-05:00

We have a place to sleep!

Oakland Cottage
July 3-6 (nights)
Check in July 3 @ 4pm
Check out July 7 @ 11am

A la carte (maid service and breakfast NOT included)
3 nights @ $445
1 night @ $495
lodging tax $73.20
state sales tax $123.53
pet fee $90
grand total $2116.73

$1058.37 paid 1/8/07
$1058.37 due 6/3/07

Our reservation may be cancelled for refund of deposit less $35 processing fee up to 30 days prior to check-in date. After 30 days, cancellation forfeits the entire deposit.

Let's start thinking about all the other arrangements that we need to make before we get there -- food, menus, cost split, entertainment, who-sleeps-where, etc. Please post a comment to this post with any suggestions that you might have and I'll put together a master post with all of 'em in it for us to "vote" on.

WAAAAIT FOR ME!!!!!!!

2007-01-02T22:30:00.000-05:00

Here, (GASP), I (cough cough, biiiig breath) AM!!!!

Whew, I finally made it!! And I feel soooo much better after the doctor (thanks for your help Heather) took me off the BETA BLOGGERS!!!!!

...AND I vote for the Oakland Cottage, ...AND I LOVE what Sis is doing with all this, ...AND I'm hoping that Joe gets to be there,... AND I'm so excited about all this that I could just pee my pants, BUT I won't!!!

Anyway, just wanted to make my presence known.

Love to you ALL!!!

Lenka

83.33333%

2006-12-28T22:59:00.000-05:00

Since the local news was able to "call" the last election results with a smaller percentage of the votes in, what say we call this a done deal? When in Philly, and all that. Plus, Lenka did send out an email way back when:

From: Lenka
Sent: Friday, December 15, 2006 2:24 PM
To: Sis
Subject: RE: [Proxsemadeni] Er, um, yeah. Best laid plans and all that...

WOW, ME likey Oakland Cottage!!

Shall we just consider that her vote?

I'll give Oakland Cottage a call first thing Tuesday morning and start making the arrangements for our stay in July.

~'rah, I'll let you know about the deposit. I think we should be fine with your suggestion of taking care of it for now and figuring out reimbursement later. I'll double check with J and the budget and let everyone know asap!

A big "Thanks" and a bunch of hugs and kisses to all of you for playing along with me and responding with your opinions, concerns, suggestions, and input!

Not Quite Begging...

2006-12-27T13:02:00.000-05:00

I WANT YOU TO VOTE!

If you haven't already, please post a comment to let us all know if you prefer one or the other properties for our stay in Weaverville. I'm not comfortable with making reservations for the whole group until everyone has had their say in writing. Voting ends tomorrow night (12/28/06) at 10 pm EST as I want to call for reservations as soon as possible after the beginning of the New Year.

Puhweeeze?

Weeks 22 & 23 (Dec 17 - 30)

2006-12-26T12:18:00.000-05:00

At least 3 days this week:
Week 22
Warm-up walk: 5 minutes
Stretch
Run: 11 minutes
Walk: 5 minutes
Run: 11 minutes
Walk: 4 minutes
Cool down walk: 5 minutes
*Total time = 41 minutes

Week 23
Warm-up walk: 5 minutes
Stretch
Run: 12 minutes
Walk: 5 minutes
Run: 11 minutes
Walk: 4 minutes
Cool down walk: 5 minutes
*Total time = 42 minutes

We're almost to the halfway point in our 49 week training schedule. Way to go!!!

Er, um, yeah. Best laid plans and all that...

2006-12-15T13:00:00.000-05:00

Well, the good folks at Asheville Cabins worked really hard to make my *fabulous* plan work, but apparently no amount of wanting, looking, hoping, and looking some more will make a property materialize within their jurisdiction to meet our rather specific needs! A HUGE thanks to Rachel and her boss and the owner of the company for all the work they did yesterday trying to work this out. EVERYONE needing a vacation rental property in the Asheville, NC area should check with them first! The properties that they have are beautiful and their customer service rocks. We will definitely be renting from them in the future.

That being said, there isn't a single property that will fit all 20 of us and allow us to bring along the pooches. There are several beautiful, pet friendly properties and several "large group" properties. Unfortunately, the large group properties aren't quite large enough and understandably, the property owners don't want more than the maximum occupancy hanging out. The one property (go look at Mountain Sky! It's GORGEOUS!!!) that was graciously "opened up" for us all to meet at to hang out and eat meals together isn't equipped for pets. So we continued to work and I continued to look.

I've come up with two potential solutions.
Option 1:

The folks at Mountain Breeze Resort (located about 10 miles northeast of Weaverville) have three adjoining properties, all pet friendly. We can, as a group, rent all three properties or one/some of us can rent one of the properties. They are fine with all of us congregating on the property, regardless of how many of us are actually staying there.

Option 2:

We could rent Oakland Cottage, a bed and breakfast in Asheville. The are also pet friendly and (obviously) if we rent the entire property as a group, we could all congregate there.

Please take some time to check out these two properties and give me some feedback. The property owners/managers both said that while we have a little time to make our reservations (and both are totally open for the time that we're planning to be there), they expect to book quickly as soon as the holidays are over. So we need to get on it. I would like to make reservations by the end of the month. If I haven't heard from anyone by the 28th, I will go ahead and reserve one of the Mountain Breeze Resort properties. That way we will be sure to have a common property on which we can all meet, eat, and hang out.

[Where] Are you sleeping? Are you sleeping?

2006-12-13T09:14:00.000-05:00

Brother Joe?
Sisters 'rah, Jacq, Lenka, Ma & Pa?
Er, okay, so it doesn't work. Anyhoo....

I was looking at the properties that Rachel's company has available in Weaverville and it looks like they're already getting booked up. Sooooo, we need to make some decisions about lodgings. There isn't a single cabin that will fit all of us and all of our needs (and unfortunately the Biltmore isn't in our price range. Unless someone just won the lottery and has been holding out on the rest of us. In which case, "Hey! I'm telling!"). The best scenario that I can work out is the following:

I will rent one of the properties that Asheville Cabins has to offer (my favorite is Hidden Pond) so that no matter what else we do, we will all have access to a kitchen, a living room, and washer & dryer. As you can see below, space in some of the properties is limited, so if you want to try to bunk together, we need to get busy planning that out. And soon! But I can't figure out a good way to arrange for accommodations for everyone, so to save my sanity, I'm relinquishing that responsibility. Where you stay is up to you! The properties that Rachel indicated were in/close to Weaverville are

Claxton Farmhouse
ammenities include: Sleeps 10; 4 bedrooms (3 queens, one room with 2 full beds), 2 baths; satellite TV; washer & dryer; porch; charcoal grill; dishwasher; gas fireplace; microwave; air conditioning; NO pets
rates: $225 per night / 1350 per week for 4 persons. $250 per night / $1500 per week for 5 or more persons. Three night minimum at all times (when higher nightly minimum does not apply).

Rabbit Hollow
amenities include: Sleeps 6; 3 bedrooms (1 queen, 1 full, and one room with 2 twin beds); 1 bath; satellite TV; VCR; washer & dryer; porch; charcoal grill; gas fireplace; microwave; air conditioning; pet friendly
Rates: $110 per night / $550 per week

Ox Creek
amenities include: Sleeps 6; 2 bedrooms (1 queen, 2 twin trundles, full sleeper sofa); 1 bath; satellite TV; VCR; washer & dryer; hot tub; deck; gas grill; dishwasher; gas fireplace; microwave;air conditioning; NO pets
Rates: $125 per night / $625 per week

Cozy Creek
amenities include: Sleeps 2; 1 bedroom (1 queen); 1 bath (bathroom is only partitioned off by a small wrap around wooden screen); no cable or satellite TV; VCR; hot tub; deck; charcoal grill; microwave; air conditioning; stereo/CD player; pet friendly
Rates: $99 per night / $595 per week

South Fork Academy
amenities include: Sleeps 4; 2 bedrooms (2 queens); 2 bathrooms; satellite TV; VCR; washer & dryer; porch; gas grill; dishwasher; microwave; gas fireplace; air conditioning; stereo/CD player; NO pets
Rates: $135 per night / $850 per week

River Time
amenities include: Sleeps 4; 1 bedroom (1 queen, full sofa sleeper); 1 bath; wireless DSL internet; DVD; no cable or satellite TV; hot tub; deck; porch; gas grill Deck/porch: wood burning stove; microwave; stereo / CD; NO air conditioning; Pet friendly
Rates: $145 per night / $870 per week (Rates above are based on 2 persons. Rates increase to $165/night and $990/week for 3-4 persons. Children under 10 years of age are free!)

Rocky River
amenities include: Sleeps 4; 1 bedroom (1 queen, two twins in loft); 1 bath; DVD; no cable or satellite TV; deck; porch; charcoal grill; wood burning stove; microwave; NO air conditioning; stereo / CD; Pet friendly
Rates: $100 per night / $600 per week

Hidden Pond (7 miles w of Weaverville)
amenities include: Sleeps 8; 2 bedrooms (1 king, 2 queens (one in loft), queen sofa sleeper); 2 baths; VCR; cable; DSL internet; washer & dryer; hot tub; covered porch; charcoal grill; dishwasher; gas fireplace; microwave; air conditioning; stereo / CD; Pet friendly
Rates: $180 per night / $1100 per week (Rates above are based on 1-2 persons. For 3-8 persons, rates are $225/night and $1400/week.)

Other options? Well, there’s not much to choose from in the way of hotels in Weaverville. Links to the accommodations that I found in Weaverville are:

The Dry Ridge Inn

Secret Garden

Inn on Main Street

There are all the standard accommodations in Asheville (about 10 miles away from Weaverville and from the Hidden Pond Cabin), ranging from $77 per night to as-much-as-you-want-to-spend at the Biltmore (I did a quick search using hotels.com and yahoo travel).

I will be calling Asheville Cabins this afternoon to get a little more information, and if all goes well, will put the deposit down on a cabin by the end of next week (like I said, they're filling up!). If you think you want to stay with us, I'll need to know asap since the rate changes in some cases based on occupancy and the number of occupants will help me choose the property.

If you're still having trouble posting/commenting here, feel free to email / call me!

Just checkin'

2006-12-12T23:48:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to see if this thing works now that I've got the Beta account. And now that I know it does.....

I GRADUATE IN 4 (count 'em) FOUR DAYS!!!!

yay me.

Mine! Mine! All mine!

2006-12-12T01:45:00.000-05:00

Well, I seem to have created a bigger mess than I originally thought by "cwt" (clicking without thinking). I did manage (I think) to get everything back up on the sidebar. Of course I couldn't leave well enough alone, so there were a few tweeks here, a few new touches there. Which is all well and good, except NONE OF YOU CAN USE IT!!! Sure, you can look at it. Idn't it purty? But now, unless you switch your account over to the new beta version, you can't log on and post. Or comment, since we've restricted comments to members. Sigh. And worst of all? I can't undo it. Apparently, once you go beta you can never go back.

Here's what Blogger has to say about the situation:

What happens when team blogs switch to Blogger in beta?

A team blog will only switch to Blogger in beta when the original owner moves his or her account over.

Team members who have not yet switched to Blogger in beta will still see the blog on their dashboards, but it will be grayed out and inaccessible. Once those members move their own accounts to the beta, they will be able to access the blog as before. If they can't yet switch, or don't wish to, they can ask the owner of the blog for a new invitation to join the blog on the beta version. They can then accept that invitation by logging in to or creating a Google Account to post to that blog. (Later on, when they do switch their Blogger account to the new version, they'll have an option to merge it with this account.)

If a team member of a blog switches their account to beta before the blog owner does, then the team blog is not converted. It will appear on the team member's dashboard in beta, but clicking on it will lead back to the old version of Blogger. Thus, the blog will still be usable, but without the new features of Blogger in beta (e.g. Labels, Layouts, etc.).

Sooooo. ~~The choice is yours. I can either send you all a new invite (so you can create a new beta account with which to access the family blog), or you can switch your account over per these instructions:~~

How do I switch to Blogger in beta?

Thanks for your interest in all the new features we've got coming up! The Blogger in beta program is going to start out small, so only a low percentage of people who log in to Blogger will see the option to switch over. If you're one of them, you'll see a blue box in the sidebar of your dashboard highlighting the new Blogger in beta. Click the "learn more" link there and we'll walk you through the process of switching your account.

Part of this change involves converting your Blogger account into a Google Account (learn more about Google Accounts). If you already have a Google Account, log in with your Google Account email address and password when prompted. A confirmation message will appear to indicate success.

If you do not have a Google Account, you will be given the option to create one. Your new Google Account will automatically be linked to your Blogger account.

Blogger has a new Terms of Service so be sure to read and accept it when it is presented.

That's all there is to it. From this point on, you'll log in to beta.blogger.com, instead of the usual www.blogger.com, to access your account's new features. Remember also to use your new Google Account login information.

If you don't have the link on your dashboard, don't despair. We'll be adding more and more people as we go along, so eventually everyone will be able to switch.

Never mind. I'm just going to send you all new invitations so you don't have to wait.

Why the change? Well, besides the cool new features and the fact that IT'S! NEW! AND! SHINY!, Blogger explains that:

Google Accounts are better protected against fraud, impersonation, and abuse. In addition, by switching your Blogger account to a Google Account, it will be easier to use other Google services like AdWords, Google Groups, Google Alerts, Froogle Shopping List, Personalized Search, your Personalized Homepage, Google Answers, and many future Google services. You can find out more about Google Accounts at the Google Accounts FAQ.

I'm so sorry about all of this... I should have read the fine print before switching my personal site over. If you have any problems with the changes, please let Jacq know. Kidding. I'll do all I can to make this transition as smooth as possible for all of you. Call me or email me and we'll figure it out!

Week 21 (Dec 10-16)

2006-12-11T13:06:00.000-05:00

At least 3 days this week:
Warm-up walk: 5 minutes
Stretch
Run: 11 minutes
Walk: 5 minutes
Run: 10 minutes
Walk: 5 minutes
Cool down walk: 5 minutes

Tired of the same 'ole same 'ole? Change things up with a new trail. Be careful out there and have fun!

Technical Issues...

2006-12-09T12:42:00.000-05:00

As you figured out when/if you tried to log in today, our site has been switched over the *NEW* format. Er, it didn't exactly just "get" switched... I did it. And I lost the linky links in the sidebar when I did so. And I'm still not sure what else I changed. So I'll be working on it until I get it back "right". Meanwhile, if you've got ideas/suggestions/comments for improving our experience, lemme know! I'll incorporate as much as I can without staying up all night to get it done. But lemme know quick -- I intend to have it "finished" by tomorrow, game time.

Let the lashing begin...

Week 20 (Dec 3 - Dec 9)

2006-12-03T21:09:00.000-05:00

At least 3 days this week:
Warm-up walk: 5 minutes
Stretch
Run: 10 minutes
Walk: 5 minutes
Run: 10 minutes
Walk: 5 minutes
Cool down walk: 5 minutes
(yes, it's a repeat of last week!)

Rumor has it that snow is on the way! Head on over to Fresh Air Sports.com for some tips to keep your training program from freezing over.

Week 19 (Nov 26 - Dec 2)

2006-11-26T09:10:00.000-05:00

At least 3 days this week:
Warm-up walk: 5 minutes
Stretch
Run: 10 minutes
Walk: 5 minutes
Run: 10 minutes
Walk: 5 minutes
Cool down walk: 5 minutes

Better Than a Paternity Test

2006-11-19T20:50:00.000-05:00

Dear Siblings,

It is 8:42 pm.

We leave for New Hampshire tomorrow morning.

I haven't started packing.

That is all.

Love,
Sis

Week 18 (Nov 19 - 25)

2006-11-17T20:54:00.000-05:00

At least 3 days this week:
Warm-up walk: 5 minutes
Stretch
Run: 9 minutes
Walk: 6 minutes
Run: 9 minutes
Walk: 6 minutes
Cool down walk: 5 minutes

Top Ten Reasons For Running

1. It helps you lose weight
2. It gives you more energy
3. It gives you time to think through tough issues
4. Skinny bodies are sexy bodies ;-)
5. You can eat almost anything you want
6. You meet new friends
7. You get to shop for shoes (running shoes, that is...)
8. One wood -- 'gu'
9. Tons of race t-shirts
10. It beats cleaning!

Week 17 (Nov 12 - 18)

2006-11-12T22:06:00.000-05:00

At least 3 days this week:
Warm-up walk: 5 minutes
Stretch
Run: 9 minutes
Walk: 6 minutes
Run: 8 minutes
Walk: 7 minutes
Cool down walk: 5 minutes

Something to sleep on:

Proper Rest

Rest is a very underrated aspect of running, especially distance running. To be good at running, you must adopt a mindset along the lines of, "the harder I push, the better I will be." Well, this is good only up to a point. As a coach of mine said (specifically for summer training, but the general theory carries over into the competitive season, as well), "make your hard days as hard as possible and your easy days as easy as possible." The idea is that if your easy days are taking away from your hard days, you will merely run mediocre every day and not do the work necessary to become faster. It is the hard workouts that make you a faster runner, not the easy ones.

Personally, I am in favor of three hard workouts a week (two if one of the days is a race), with an easy day between hard workouts and races. I prefer six days a week of running, with the seventh day spent cross-training (bicycling, for example) or resting, if need be. Many people go the route of seven days a week, 365 days a year. This works for some, but breaks down many others. Find out what works for you, give the body time to get accustomed, and stick with that routine.

There is much more to rest than when and how hard to run, however. Other related things to consider are: sleep, diet, stress level, and mental preparation. All of these combine to dictate how your body will be able to react to your training regimen. You've probably heard your coach say, "two days before the race is most important." This refers to both sleep and food. Why two days before? Because the night before a race you will probably be too nervous and/or excited to sleep, anyway! By eating correctly, your body replenishes the nutrients which are burned up through exercise.

GIFTS, GAB and GUILT!!

2006-11-08T11:09:00.000-05:00

What more could a girl ask for on her Birthday?

The Gifts - The day started out with me finding my annual Birthday Bear, from the counselor, sitting on my pillow. I also got a purse by Vera Bradley as well as a Red one by Tommy Hilfiger. And then the Ultimate gift was the Hardbound, Boxed set of the complete works of Gary Larson’s FAR SIDE COMICS. Unbelievable!!

The Gab - And then it was off to work, where my day was broken up several times with phone calls from friends and family, including “alphabet” the soldier boy, and Jac. Some of them usually only correspond by e-mail, so it was such a pleasure to not only have them remember the day, but it was wonderful to just get to chat with friends and do a little catching up!! Then on the evening of my birthday, while having a coffee with the counselor, I got a sweet, sweet call from my niece and one of my nephews. It was “Happy Birthday to you…” complete with “Deeear Aunt Lenkaaaaa”. It was spectacular. I made the sister, who also put her good wishes in, call back and have them do it again on my voicemail so I could keep it.

And then…, AND THEN…

The Guilt – the other sister, (and I totally believe her) thought about calling earlier in the day, but it was too early to call me, so she wound up forgetting until the next day. So when she called me I could tell that she was riddled with guilt and remorse, and even though I assured her that it was the thought that counts, she must have wallowed all day long until she came up with the PERFECT restitution: A PUBLIC APOLOGY, complete with an irresistible picture of the nephew!! And it worked. She’s forgiven forever!!

Yep, I’m one lucky gal to be so loved. And I want to just say Thanks to you all and I LOVE YOU back!! Ya’ll don’t forget next year now, ya hear?!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, TO YOOOOOOOU!

2006-11-04T11:23:00.000-05:00

I don't wear this stupid hat for just anyone...

Dear Aunt Lenka,
I can't believe Mommy forgot to call you on your birthday. Sheesh. How many times does a boy have to say "Goodley-goog-goub hey-hey-hesh" to get the point across? Anyways, I hope you had a wonderful day and that you know how very, very, very much you are loved! Happy, happy, happy Birthday!!!

Love,
Bubby

Nah- nahnah - nah - nah

2006-11-01T14:19:00.000-05:00

Just thought I'd let you all know that I've got

SIS's and M's Christmas DONE!!!

AND I'm pretty much done with all the rest of my Christmas shopping!!

AND it's only November 1st thank-you very much!!

AND I really just wanted a reason to post something!!

Luv ya'll, EE

Week 15 (Oct. 29 - Nov. 4)

2006-10-29T21:38:00.000-05:00

At least 3 days this week:
Warm-up walk: 5 minutes
Stretch
Run: 8 minutes
Walk: 7 minutes
Run: 7 minutes
Walk: 8 minutes
Cool down walk: 5 minutes

Linky-Links:
First Steps: Don't forget the basics!
Where To Go From Here: Ready for more?

Week 14 (Oct 22 - 28)

2006-10-16T00:55:00.000-05:00

At least 3 days this week:
Warm-up walk: 5 minutes
Stretch
Run: 7 minutes
Walk: 8 minutes
Run: 7 minutes
Walk: 8 minutes
Cool down walk: 5 minutes

Too cold outside to run? Betcha won't whine after reading this! Go here to find out more about Dean Karnazes' quest to run 50 marathons in 50 days in each of the 50 United States.

Week 13 (Oct 15 - 21)

2006-10-12T21:55:00.000-05:00

At least 3 days this week:
Warm-up walk: 5 minutes
Stretch
Run: 7 minutes
Walk: 8 minutes
Run: 6 minutes
Walk: 9 minutes
Cool down walk: 5 minutes

Sorry I dropped the ball last week on posting the training plan!

For some motivation, check out this. Maybe we'll have to send Lenka's requested group photo in... :)

Picture This!!!

2006-10-11T08:55:00.000-05:00

'rah (BTW it's about time you posted your list ), brought up something I've been thinking about too. The PIX!! When Sis had the idea last year, I thought it was awesome, and fully intended to participate. "intented" being the operative word. Obviously, Christmas time was a bit hectic last year, in fact, one of us (Andrew) didn't even bother to show up until AFTER Christmas. This year promises to be no less hectic for us, so here's my suggestion...

Let's see if we can't all have Professional/semi-professional/semi-deni-professional photos of each of the families to exchange at the 4th of July 5K (stupid runners!) get together. And then I'd love to get a good GROUP picture of all of us while we're there.

Any suggestions on picture size? 4X6, 5X7, or whatever we want? I don't know. Ya'll help decided that one and let me know!!

EE :-)

I'm Dreaming of a Green Christmas....

2006-10-09T22:43:00.000-05:00

Okay, sorry that I've put it off so long! Because I really do want to be one of the popular kids, here's my Christmas wish list!

I would love some wool. For crocheting/knitting. I'm discovering that the Red Heart stuff is just ehhhh....okay, so call me a yarn snob, but real honest-to-goodness wool is SO nice to work with! Not to mention that you can't make diaper covers with synthetic fibers, because it doesn't have the waterproofing ability that wool does. So, a gift certificate would be awesome! Some sites:

www.knitpicks.com
www.littleturtleknits.com
www.handpaintedyarn.com
www.yarnmarket.com
www.cozystitches.com
www.peacefleece.com
www.halcyonyarn.com
www.patternworks.com
www.mysticalcreationyarns.com
www.holysheepyarns.com
www.camillavalleyfarm.com
www.elann.com
www.fullbellyfarm.com
www.recycledsilk.com
www.yarnia.com

Along the same lines, GCs for fabric/sewing stores would also be great....We have JoAnn's and Hancock nearby. For web-order fabric, I like www.wazoodle.com and www.fabric.com

I'd also be thrilled with just about anything.....books, cds, dvds, GCs to purchase any of the above, GCs for iTunes and so forth, GCs for a local day spa (http://www.villasoleilspa.com www.spafinder.com). I'm taking some cake decorating classes (something I've always wanted to do!) so a GC for supplies or further classes would be really swell, too! http://www.wilton.com/ And Amazon.com....you can find anything there! :)

For M, sigh....he's hard to shop for, because he's easy to please, LOL! GCs to Lowes, Home Depot, Best Buy, book stores, local golf courses (http://www.gulfcoastgolf.com/destination-guides/florida-emerald-coast.htm), guitar stuff, running stuff (http://www.runningwild.com/) gun stuff, religion stuff (http://www.christianbook.com), iTunes, Amazon.com and so forth.

Book stores we have nearby are B&N, BAM, B.Dalton, Waldenbooks. Not sure if there's a Borders around here, but I think they own B.Dalton.

Now, to raise a new issue....nieces, nephews, and four-legged family members....

As always, there is no obligation, real or implied, etc. and blah blah blah.....but if you want to give gifts to our children, and you want a suggestion, here it is: what we would prefer is just a "family" gift, something that the children can enjoy together, like a book, game, puzzle, etc. There's no need for anyone to buy them separate gifts; they don't need it and they certainly don't expect it. Of course, if you want to, that's fine too. They were thrilled to death by the gifts they got last year--books and CDs, a GC to the bookstore (where they got to pick out their very own books), and a card with $5 for each absolutely thrilled them--they each had a grand time deciding how to spend it. In both instances, they learned great lessons, like budgeting, value, making tough decisions, etc. On the other hand, they would have been just as happy with nothing more than a card and a picture! :)

In fact, a picture would be a most cherished gift, especially for the two older kids. They are always talking about the aunts/uncles/grandparents/grandbrother (as E calls J, LOL!), and having their very own pictures would please them beyond measure!

I know we, for one, dropped the ball as far as getting pictures made for last year....would anyone like to try that again for this year?

Okay, blah blah blah, yakkety-smackety and all that....I'd better finally post this or else it will remain as a draft for another month! Which would be a bad thing, because I really do want Christmas gifts, LOL! :)

Thursday, Oct. 12: Edited to add: Old Bisbee Roasters! (http://www.oldbisbeeroasters.com) They have the BEST coffee on earth! And I'm not a bit picky....hint, hint! :)

xoxo!

Week 11 (Oct 1-7)

2006-10-02T15:19:00.000-05:00

Oops! Another late post. I'd be ready for my lashes but we're waiting on the noodles, too.

At least 3 days this week:
Warm-up walk: 5 minutes
Stretch
Run: 6 minutes
Walk: 9 minutes
Run: 5 minutes
Walk: 10 minutes
Cool down walk: 5 minutes

If you've been able to follow the training plan so far, you will have already run 201 minutes! At a 15 minute per mile pace, that's the equivalent of almost 4 1/2 5K's!
Way to go!!!

Week 10 (Sept. 24-30)

2006-09-24T21:06:00.000-05:00

At least 3 days this week:
Warm-up walk: 5 minutes
Stretch
Run: 5 minutes
Walk: 10 minutes
Run: 5 minutes
Walk: 10 minutes
Cool down walk: 5 minutes

Talk the Talk
Click above for a witty reference guide so you don't have to paste that "sure, I know what you're talking about" smile on your face on race day! (P.S. The post is informative, but the comments are worth the read!)

Happy Training!

Week 9 (Sept. 17-23)

2006-09-18T13:22:00.000-05:00

Sorry for the late post!

At least 3 days this week:
Warm-up walk: 5 minutes
Stretch
Run: 5 minutes
Walk: 10 minutes
Run: 4 minutes
Walk: 11 minutes
Cool down walk: 5 minutes
Stretch

Cold Weather Running Safety
by Henley Gibble

These tips are taken from the Road Runners Club of America's Cold Weather Running recommendations.

The only time that I will not run in the winter is when there is ice on the trails. Early morning runs in newfallen snow can be some of the most memorable. Runs in cold weather can be some of our most wonderful experiences; they can also be some of the worst if a few key safety rules are overlooked. Hypothermia, frostbite and falls are some of the risks.

Firecracker 5K Info

2006-09-11T19:58:00.000-05:00

Okay, here's the info that I have so far. The following refers to the registration and other particulars related to the 5K:

Hi! I was given this address as a contact point for information on the annual Fourth of July 5K run supporting the Kiwanis in Weaverville. I apologize if this is not the right address… perhaps you could redirect me if that is the case? I am writing to find out more about the 5K as my siblings and I are planning to be in the area at that time and would like to participate if at all possible. I am wondering if the event will indeed be held next year (2007), and if so, what the registration cost, deadline, etc. might be. Are there any restrictions we should know about (such as no strollers, age limits, etc.)? Any information you could send my way would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you,

Sis

Sis-
Next year we will have our 14th annual Firecracker 5K race on the 4th of July. We start our planning in March, so I’m not sure of the cost. I don’t think there will be an increase over the past year unless there are unforeseen increases that we have in putting it all together. We mail out applications usually the first week in May. If you would like to give me your address, I can put you on the mailing list to make sure you get all the information.

We do not have age limits. As for strollers, we had one mother run this past year. She started in the back to avoid tripping anyone and it worked out just fine. I don’t see that there would be a problem.

I’m so excited that you are planning ahead! It is such a great event. Thank you for your interest.

Rona

Rona,
Wonderful! Is it possible for me to get the applications for all the members of the family that will be running? I assume that each of us would need to fill our own out. Does that usually need to be done well in advance? Also, what was the registration fee last year (just so we have a ball-park number. My younger siblings are still in college, so they need PLENTY of time to start eating Ramen Noodles and saving towards events :))? We are hoping to run as a family, so starting at the back with whatever strollers, etc. are there would be ideal for us. Do we need to register the kiddos in strollers or just those running?

Sorry for all the questions. Usually I just register, show up and run, but I’m trying to coordinate this for the whole family and most of them have never participated in an organized run. So the clearer I am about all the little stuff, the less likely I am to have to do dishes or sleep on the porch the whole week :)! Thank you so much!

Sis

Sis-
I’ve attached last year’s application and information. I think it has everything that you need to plan. The children in strollers do not need to register. If you register by the designated deadline it is cheaper.

You can either send me the name and addresses of everyone you would like an application to go to or make copies of the one that I send to you. You will also have an on-line registration option.

Rona,
Perfect! I will either make copies of the application that you send to me or direct the rest of the family to register online. My mailing address is:
********
Thanks again for all your help and all the information!

Sis

So it looks like the early registration fee will be in the $15 range (click on the application link if you don't believe me. Go ahead. You know you want to.)

RE: Cabins -- I have emailed Rachel for more info on the properties that the company she works for has available. I am guessing that we will wind up needing two properties (unless the company doesn't count the little 'uns in their maximum occupancy count) to house us all. The properties she has suggested for us all have multiple bedrooms and bathrooms (some sharing will be necessary, though. I was going on the assumption that the little 'uns will stay in the room with their parents... let me know if that won't work.) Knowing how many persons/critters/strays everybody intends to bring along will help narrow our choices down, so if you already know how many you'll be, pass it along. I will post the information (and links to the cabins being considered) when I get it!

As for dividing the cost, whaddya think? What's fair? What's affordable?

Hey!!! WAIT FOR ME!!!!

2006-09-11T09:12:00.000-05:00

Ok, so it's been a while since I looked at THE site.

Momma's blogging? OMG!!! I had heard that hell had a bit of a cold snap...

Susan, I thought YOU were the coordinator of this event?!! My illusions have been shattered.

I'm trying to figure out when Jacq's going to figure out that the folks have figured her out. And I can't wait to find out what the catch to this "support" thing is. 'cause there's ALWAYS a catch!!! WAAAHAAAAHA.

Susan, you've just GOTTA "oh Carl, Please Carl" daddy on this one!! Not that it'll do any good, but it'll be funny!!

... and SPEAKING OF CHRISTMAS.... I want to add to my list (I'll go back and edit the original too, but...) The "special collection" Far Side 2007 desk calendar from Books.A.Million. HEY Jacq, did you hear that? I can't remember whose got your name, but maybe this will give them an idea for you too!! Who's the BIG SISTA?!!!

OK, the phone just WON'T quit ringing, no matter how hard I ignore it, so I'm going to go. Love to you ALL!!! EE

Week 8 (Sept 10 - 16)

2006-09-10T16:51:00.000-05:00

At least 3 days this week:
Warm-up walk: 5 minutes
Stretch
Run: 4 minutes
Walk: 11 minutes
Run: 4 minutes
Walk: 11 minutes
Cool down walk: 5 minutes
Stretch

Food as Fuel
Some great info from someone who wasn't "born running". Check out the rest of his site for great tips and plenty of inspiration!

A Question

2006-09-10T14:52:00.000-05:00

Hold on, lemme slide my chair over. Adjust the keyboard. Ok, now, on to business.

Is there a registration cost for the 5K? Also, do we know the breakdown of costs for splitting the cabins? Of course, this is assuming that all families will be there (which they will....right?). I just want to get started saving my pennies - er, mom and dad's pennies.

I think that maybe mom might have to take on a 2nd job in order to support me, but what are parents for? :-)

Ok, later, yo.

FInally

2006-09-10T14:38:00.000-05:00

I am finally getting into the blog please bear wih me. Momma

Week 7 (Sept 3 - 9)

2006-09-03T18:38:00.000-05:00

At least 3 days this week:
Warm-up walk: 5 minutes
Stretch
Run: 4 minutes
Walk: 11 minutes
Run: 3 minutes
Walk: 12 minutes
Cool down walk: 5 minutes
Stretch

From CoolRunning.com:
Ditch the Stitch

Every runner has experienced the dreaded side stitch, a sudden sharp pain in the side of the upper abdomen at the base of the ribs. The pain is caused by a spasm of the diaphragm, the muscle that controls your breathing. A stitch will usually go away quickly after slowing down or stopping, but even on the run, you can often make it go away by bringing your breathing into careful control.

Concentrate on belly breathing, pushing your belly out when you breathe in and relaxing it as you breathe out. Take deep breaths on the intake, and exhale suddenly, even noisily. To get the diaphragm to contract in rhythm with your steps, try to inhale and exhale as you land on your left foot. Click here for more about side stitches.

2006-08-30T21:50:00.000-05:00

remember, this plan is build around the idea that its better to eat less per meal and more meals.
it's also tailored for our training so it might be a bit protein heavy...but that will do nothing but good (as long as you keep on training!!!)

Ranger Challenge Meals

BREAKFAST

1) 1 ½ Cup Oatmeal, Made with 1 cup skim milk, ½ cup cranberries or raisins, 1 cup of light orange juice to drink
2) 2 Bagels with reduced fat Peanut Butter, 1 piece of fruit, 1 glass skim milk, one cup light orange juice
3) 3 Egg omelet (Cheese or Veggie), 2 slices whole grain toast, 1 glass skim milk, one cup light orange juice
4) Large bowl of whole grain cereal with fresh fruit and skim milk, 1 cup light orange juice
5) 4 oat-bran(or whole grained) frozen waffles, 2tbsp pure maple syrup, 2 eggs( or substitute 1 cup of low fat cottage cheese), one large glass of skim milk, 1 cup light orange juice
6) one large glass of fruit smoothie with protein powder
7) Lean Ham, English Muffin, 2 Scrambled Egg Whites, one cup of light orange juice
8) One baked potato, 4 eggs, 1 cup of light orange juice
9) One slice of whole grain bread, ½ serving sliced strawberries, 1 cup of light cottage cheese
10) Fat Burn Meal
3/4 cup scrambled Eggs
1 piece multi-grain toast with 1
teaspoon natural peanut butter
1 small apple
1 small banana

MIDMORNING SNACK

1) 2 Apples with reduced fat peanut butter
2) Fruit smoothie with protein powder
3) 2 cups of fresh vegetables (preferably carrots or broccoli)
4) 1 ½ cups non fat Yogurt with Fruit
5) 1 ½ cups of low fat cottage cheese
6) Banana and reduced fat Peanut butter sandwich with whole grain bread
7) 1 cup cooked oatmeal with 1 cup skim milk, 1 scoop whey protein

LUNCH

1) Turkey Sandwich, Whole-Grain or any 9-12 grain bread, one piece of fruit
2) Chicken Sandwich, whole grained or any 9-12 grained bread, piece of fruit
3) Salad with chicken or Salmon
4) Pasta Salad, Whole Grained, be sure to drink 1 cup of skim milk because this meal is not high in protein
5) 2 cups of homemade egg salad on 2 whole wheat pitas, one banana
6) Tuna and cheese sandwich, whole grain or any 9-12 grain bread, 4 oz. tuna, 2 oz. cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato
7) Ham Sandwich, Whole Grain or any 9-12 grain bread, one piece of fruit
8) Chicken Sandwich, Baked or grilled and not fried, whole grain or any 9-12 grain bread, one piece of fruit

9) Fat Burn Meal
2 ounces of fresh deli cut
turkey breast
1 tablespoon regular mayonnaise
2 slices of multi-grain bread
1 cup fresh baby carrots
1/2 cup low-fat cottage cheese

AFTERNOON SNACK

1) Salad with Meat
2) Smoothie with Protein
3) Salad with unlimited amounts of your favorite raw veggies
4) 1 ½ cups plain, non fat yogurt, 1 cup cottage cheese, 1 cup blackberries
5)1 package tofu pudding with 1 ½ cups of cold water, and one package low fat pudding, blend

DINNER

1) Main Entrees:
Chicken Breast (Either baked or Grilled)
Salmon
Turkey
Lean Pork
Cod
Tuna
Note: Only Baked or Grilled Meats. No Fried!
Acceptable Side Items:
Sweet Potato, Yams
Brown Rice, Fried Rice
Steamed or Raw Vegetables
Any Other Complex Carbohydrate

1) Fat Burn Meal
1 medium roasted, skinless
chicken breast
1 cup lentil soup
2 celery sticks with non-fat
cream cheese

AFTER-DINNER SNACK

2) Fruit with Reduced fat Peanut Butter
3) Large Glass of Skim Milk
4) Smoothie with protein
5) Low Fat pudding with scoop of whey protein

2006-08-29T22:23:00.000-05:00

Everyone note: the preamble to the preceding post is the reason I rarely vocalize....its usually incoherent or not pretty :-D have a good day!

uggggggghhhhhhhhh

2006-08-29T22:09:00.000-05:00

Can I tell everyone how sick I am of lists, listserves, memos, templates, chains of command, phone databases, databases in general, notes, schedules, business plans, plans in general, parking garage days, 5 mile runs, and really anything that requires thinking (ok, so scratch the last two.... if you don't know what I mean by parking garage days I’ll gladly expound...)! But here goes anyway :-D (I’m a diligent solider, always ready to dutifully do my duties as duty requires...HA I said DUTY THREE TIMES IN ONE SENTENCE!!)

The List:
Top O'the list:
Band Of Brothers on DVD
The Red Hot Chili Peppers: Stadium Arcadium
Gift certificates for music...anywhere is cool if they have a website*...
if you'd rather just send money i know of a website that sells really REALLY cheap CDs person to person...check it our (www.half.com) it's an ebay affiliate.
fm transmitter for my iPod
other toys for my Ipod
Toys for my iMac

movies:
pulp fiction
last samuari
the saint
13th warrior
serenity
nash bridges all/any season on dvd

Music:
(Note: some of these are not complete cds, just songs. I don't mind if the entire CD is attached to the song. It's really OK with me.)

van helsing soundtrack
styx blue : collar man (song)
ramjam (band)
american graffiti soundtrack
buju banton (Artist)
eek-a-mouse (Artist)
black uru (Artist)
slave soundtrack
peter tosh (Artist)
dj dan (Artist)
ron-d-core (Artist)
dj irene (Artist)
dj rectangle (Artist)
dj shadow (Artist)
Van Halen
chili peppers : uplift mofo (cd)
marshall tucker : can't you see (song)
the police (Artist)
yes (Artist)
alabama
Mitch hedberg (comedian)
madonna: confessions on a dancefloor (cd)

Books:
Anne Kolter: Godless
Vietnam: the necessary war : michael lind
isreal: a history : martin gilbert
the case for isreal : alan dershowitz
standing with isreal : david brog
a history of the jews : paul johnson
myths and facts : mitchell bard
why I am a reagan conservative
Bush v the beltway : laurle mylrole

bones of contention
flags of our fathers
world without cancer
after the flood
the worlds most famous court trial
ride to glory
icons of evolution
hydroplate theory
the nature of the judicial process: benjamin cardosa

cs freidman (have the coldfire trilogy)
stephen r donaldson
ra salvatore (ask what i have or no)
terry brooks (Ask i f i have it alread)
terry goodkind: Phanton

Just Kidding:
A suzuki SV650
An Honda CBR 650
a Sig SP2022 (SW.40)
a Sig 1911 Revolution Nitron (.45)

More to Come*

*NOTE: this is not just a gimme gimme list, this is a list of stuff I've been meaning to get myself (if i ever have money) that I've been building on my phone for forever... :-D

It's all about ME!!!!

2006-08-29T19:09:00.000-05:00

Ok, so I know that I have been abnormally silent lately (on all fronts. Don't worry, I haven't called anybody else either :-), but I am not one to shirk when it comes to CHRISTMAS!!!! (especially when it comes to me getting stuff). So, here's my list....for whomever might be interested (ahem, Sarah, I believe that's you, just in case you forgot.) - I would have done pictures for them all, but I have the attention span of a gnat, so I got bored with it, but on the plus side, all the titles have links!!.

DVDs (TV Series)
The Pretender, Season 2, 3, 4,
Avatar - The Last Airbender, The Complete Book 1 Collection
Alias, Season 4, 5
Prison Break, Season 1
Pride and Prejudice, BBC Miniseries (the one with Colin Firth)

MOVIES (dvd and widescreen, please!)
The Producers (the new one with Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick - the old one is stupid)

The Man from Snowy River

The Lord of the Rings - The Two Towers, Special Edition
The Lord of the Rings - The Return of the King, Special Edition
(I don't feel like linking these new ones :-)

CDs
The Lord of the Rings - The Two Towers, CD

BOOKS (paperback)
Forest Mage (The Soldier Son Trilogy Book 2) by Robin Hobb
Once Upon a Summer Day by Dennis L. McKiernan

BOOKS (hardback)
Harry Potter (I need all of them) by J.K. Rowlings
The Sword of Truth (all) by Terry Goodkind
The Bitterbynde (all) by Cecilia Dart-Thornton

GIFTCARDS
Target

Borders
Amazon (apparently they're teamed up)

Barnes and Noble

Best Buy

Week 6 (Aug 27- Sept 2)

2006-08-27T20:11:00.000-05:00

At least 3 days this week:
Warm-up walk: 5 minutes
Stretch
Run: 3 minutes
Walk: 12 minutes
Run: 3 minutes
Walk: 12 minutes
Cool down walk: 5 minutes
Stretch

(Just wanted to get this posted... tip to come!)

Lenka's List

2006-08-26T08:59:00.000-05:00

OK, so I said I'd do this yesterday, but I couldn't get blogger to work at my work, so... here I am with a list, Minus the Linky links, because I have no idea how to do that. Don't worry, I've got a call in to Sis, so maybe we'll come back and do it later!!

Also, just because Sis has my name, please don't let that stop anyone else from choosing something from my list to send to... Jacq. You know she wants it!!!

Anyway, Here's my list:

Gift Certificates:
Joe Muggs/Books.a.million, Pet Depot, Goody's Family Clothing, Pedi/Manicures, Wal*mart, or surpise me.

House Stuff:
Big Fluffy Bath Towel set, centerpiece for my dining table, GC to Michael's, Wal*mart, I like suprises

Music:
Vince Gill's new 4 disc set (due to come out this fall I think), Old stuff like Jim Reeves, Don Williams, Amy Grant has one that's called "Grace" I think, and then I really like a lot of the new adult alternative stuff like Sis mentioned, I just don't know names and titles. I really like the soundtracks they use on the shows like Grey's anatomy etc. And I like surprises.

Hobbies:
Dog stuff, scrapbooking , Danielle Steel books (mom's got a list of what I've got) Surprises are good

ETC.:
Christmas ornaments, I love the nativity set from "Willow Tree by Demdaco", coffee stuff, hair and nail stuff, pictures of my nieces and nephews.

Oh and I like surpises!!

As for the Counselor, He's easy. When I asked him to put a list together, he said:

"12oz mocha, skim, decaf, and really, really hot"

So that's our list for now. I'll add to it as things come to me!!

MEMORIES (1st edition)... sifting through the hazes of my mind...

2006-08-24T08:59:00.000-05:00

As I was walking on my treadmill, Yep, you heard me, TREADMILL!! You sucka's be goin' daay-owwwwn!! Or as we say in the south:
BLESS YOUR HEARTS!!

Anyway, I digress...

As I was walking on my treadmill last night, I started thinking. (Treadmills have a way of doing that to me. When you've counted all the cement blocks on the south side of the wall, TWICE, and you can't count the other walls because you'd fall off the stupid machine, then there's not much else to do but think...) so...

As I was walking on my treadmill last night, I started thinking about the year that the whole fam damily came to Camp Whattalottaluvin' for Christmas. The reason I thought of Christmas was that, as I was walking on my treadmill last night, I also had the radio on and it was LOUD and I found myself singing along when all of the sudden...

the memory came to me...(fade to fuzzy)

Do ya'll remember the little cars that all the guys got? And do you remember that Joe was in the basement all by himself playing with, I mean working on, his car? And then do you remember when I gathered all the girls together and took you to my bathroom because that's where you could most prominantly hear Joe singing LOUDLY all to himself? And then we began to wonder what would happen if someone were to "accidentally" hit the panic button for one of my vehicles which were parked in the basement... and then someone actually DID IT...

Well... I don't remember the words exactly so I won't try to quote him, but let's just say, expletives followed!!

Now THAT was funny.

Bless His Heart!!!

I'm still chuckling this morning, so I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to share.

Stay tuned for more memories to follow in the days and years to come.

Sister Susie La-Lala-La-La-Lah

2006-08-24T00:01:00.000-05:00

As requested (but mostly so I can play around with the linky-links!):

A. Gift cards – I love me some Target!
B. Household stuff – picture frames - with or without the pictures. Mostly black or silver frames, but if you send 'em, I'll fill 'em and hang 'em!
C. Music - Tom Petty, Sheryl Crow, Shawn Colvin, Coldplay, Sarah MacLachlan, Jack Johnson... (most artists catergorized as "adult alternative")
D. Hobbies - paper, stickers, glue sticks, markers, scissors... do I sound like an elementary school teacher or what?!
e. ETC. - SOCKS!!! Big socks, little socks, socks who climb on rocks(?)! Fat socks, skinny socks... okay, I draw the line at socks with chicken pox.

The better half:
A. Gift cards - REI, WaWa
B. Household stuff - CocaCola memorabilia
C. Music - Rap or R&B... let me know what you're thinking and I'll let you know if he's got it already!
D. Hobbies - subscription to Runner's World
E. ETC. - travel/guide books

Ah-hem!! YOUR ATTENTION PUH-LEEEZE!!

2006-08-22T15:23:00.000-05:00

Now that the givers/receivers list has been posted, how ‘bout some ideas from each of you. I know I really only need lists from the persons for whom I’m shopping, (but there’s always next year, not to mention that maybe if we’re reeeeeely good, we may get something unexpected during the year.)(yea right!!) I just figured each of us would like to have a list from our prospective giftee’s, and besides, it’ll be fun to see what each of us thinks they want.

Normally I wouldn’t ask you to consider any ground rules on such as this, but given Jacq’s recent shuffle towards the dark side…, ah heck, forget the rules. Just because she puts “I want to be queen of the universe” on her list doesn’t mean it’ll happen.

…shall we continue? Here’re some idea categories:

A. Gift cards – be specific and remember, as we learned last year, some gift cards are harder to use in different parts of the country. In fact, if there’s someplace that you REALLY like, put the name and phone number down so that it’s easier to call and get the right thing.
B. Household stuff – not clothes, clothes are too hard. Unless of course you want to put clothes on your list, then Clothes would be just fine!!
C. Music
D. Hobbies
e. ETC.

Other than that, do whatever and however much you want!

(I guess it might have been easier to just get Sis and M to send me a list… but… oh well, since I’ve gone to all the trouble to type this…)

Love ya’ll, EE

Week 5 (Aug, 20-26)

2006-08-20T14:50:00.000-05:00

At least 3 days this week:
Warm-up walk: 5 minutes
Stretch
Run: 3 minutes
Walk: 12 minutes
Run: 2 minutes
Walk: 13 minutes
Cool down walk: 5 minutes
Stretch

S-T-R-E-T-C-H!!!!!

Stretching helps prevent injury and that bothersome after-workout-tightness. It's also just plain good for you! Make sure you take time to warm up first and that you are doing the stretches correctly. Improper stretching technique can be as bad for you as not stretching at all.
Check out these two sites for some great before and after stretches:
Stretching for Beginners
Head-to-Toe Running Stretches