Just A Random Funny...

I noticed this when I came downstairs the other day. If you know me, you know this is my hockey 'stool' that I sit in during playoff games. Gotta love my girls!

And We Start Round Two...

Well, we're not looking too good tonight, according to the scoreboard, but two of our goals were created by two bonehead plays by us. And what is with us not getting a powerplay? They are a clutching, slashing bunch. Lots of interference too. But my girls, as you can see, are psyched for the playoffs.
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Fun weekend coming! We will head out to pick strawberries tomorrow. Maybe some shopping at Tarjay, and then game one of the Pens--Craps series. Go Pens! Would love a Conference Finals of Hurricanes/Penguins. Sunday will probably be an outdoor day, followed by game two of the Pens.

The Shock at The Rock

The Rock being the home of the Devils. The shock being the Canes tying and going ahead to win Game 7 and move on to the semi-finals against the Bruins. Kerry's Dad and I have our tickets for Game 3!

Playoffs in Full Swing

Penguins wrapped up the Flyguys last night. Now I am anxiously awaiting what I hope will the Caps being wrapped up today. And then after we go to Laura's party tonight, we come home to the Hurricanes. Down 3-2, I feel good that they will win tonight, then Tuesday, anything is possible.
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Spring Break Fun

What a great week! After arriving home from Pittsburgh on Monday, we definitely made the most of the week, enjoying lots of family time! On Tuesday I took Lucy to school, then served as a chaperone for her field trip. They went to a local park for a 'safety and fun' program. As you see in the picture, she learned some boating safety, fire safety, and car safety. It was really fun to take her and see how she interacts with the other students. Especially the daughter of one of our hockey players! Heehee! Of course her Daddy was in New Jersey, but that's alright! Haha!
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Wednesday night we took the girls over to Grammie and Grandpa's for their first overnight. How quiet it was at our house! Then on Thursday we went to Old Salem. We had a nice walk through the town and one of the cemeteries, then stopped at Panera for a yummy lunch before coming home to enjoy the quiet before the girls came home. If nothing else, that will definitely encourage us to try this more often. We definitely need the time as a couple, and there are many places we want to visit and revisit throughout the area!
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Today we went over to Durant Nature Park and will go to Graysen's fourth birthday party tonight. Tomorrow is the hockey game with Kerry's dad, then Monday I will be back to work! )-:

Test blog

Just trying the mobile blogging feature!

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Sent from my mobile device

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Playoff Hockey!

Gotta love it. Both the Pens and Canes went into OT last night. And both won! W00t! Kerry's Dad and I will attend game three tomorrow night at the RBC Center. A big win by the Canes, and maybe we can sneak into the next round!

Trip to PA, Easter 2009

More to come--after our trip North, I have been on Spring Break, and we have throughly enjoyed it!

2009 Playoffs

It has been since 2001 since both of my teams made it to the playoffs (Pens and Canes). Of course, I went to Game 7 in 2006 and saw the Canes hoist the Cup. So now we find ourselves back. I am simultaneously watching game 2 of the Canes-NJD series and the Pens--Flyguys. Canes dropped game one, and are tied after two tonight. Fingers crossed!

Not Too Shabby...

68 words

Speedtest

Nice, Calm, Weekend!

These types of weekends are what I live for. Kerry and I both went for a run yesterday morning between the raindrops. Then we went to a party for a friend at Wynn's house. I love seeing how the girls interact with each other and new people. My friends are big sportsmen, so they have a den with many deer heads and other animals. Lucy just loved seeing them all over.

This morning we went to BJs and FINALLY GOT MY 32" TV. W00t! It looks huge on our mantle. I already watched the end of the Game 7 Canes win on it--and it looked GOOD! Then Lucy and I rode bikes all over the neighborhood. It was SO much fun. Just the little things that make me appreciate my family so much!

Busy Busy Busy

I really need to quit saying things 'couldn't possibly get any busier.' After last weekend, the week went quickly. My mom flew in on Saturday, and we have been enjoying her time here. Of course the rain really has not stopped since Friday. We hope to get out today, even for a few minutes. And we're all SICK! I went to the doctor this afternoon and have some meds to hopefully get over this crud again. Then on Saturday we have a Canes game with Kerry's dad and Shannon. Go Canes!

Back To Work...

After the annual NCTIES Conference in Raleigh, and a weekend working with a school in Cullowhee, I am looking forward to returning to my real job tomorrow! I feel that after 6 months on the job, I am ready to begin putting forth some changes and letting my ideas come out. We have a great thing going, and I look forward to continuing that!
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Loved seeing the girls for the day. We took them to preschool and picked them up. I peeked in Myra's class, she saw me, and danced over to the door. I loved that! Then we played the rest of the day. We made it through a relatively warm day (84), and as you can see in the picture, the girls had some rosy cheeks!

Yeah, I Am Hooked on Lost

So we started with the first few episodes when it started. But we didn't get interested in it. Well, with the end of last season, I became hooked. So here it is now!

Things I Want to Remember

There are so many things that happen with my girls that I want to make sure I remember for the rest of my life. I guess this blog sort of exists to be that journal that will help me. For instance, in this picture, my little Ubuntu baby. Surely she is the first Open Source Baby out there! She was just so cute in putting the sticker on her and saying Ubuntu. Then tonight, reading our new favorite book, The Grinch, before bed. We make up our own part, all three of us singing the 'Welcome Christmas' song twice during the story. Just things to warm my heart!

A March Snowstorm Here?

Yup, that's what it appears will happen later today. After two days of rain (about 2 inches worth--take that drought!), tonight it will turn to snow. We could expect 3-6 inches, with more to the West. So I am in snow mode--told Kerry not to make my lunch for tomorrow, pumping up the girls for snow play, and I pull the wipers off the windshield. Hopefully I can post some wintery pictures tomorrow!

Excitement in the Neighborhood

All over a burning tree. It was pretty spectacular though, as I looked out at another strip of townhouses nearby, and saw smoke and flames billowing. Neighbors running frantically, and one busting a window to get another's dog out. Three firetrucks, EMS, police, what a scene! And after going to investigate (with every other neighbor in the neighborhood), it was just a tree!

Happy Valentine's Day!

Well, we are actually postponing Valentines here until tomorrow. Lucy spent the night at Grammie and Grandpa's, so we will have to finish a 'special' project for Mommy tomorrow.

My Little Ballerinas!

Well, Lucy is the one taking classes, but Myra likes to get dressed up as well. Lucy goes weekly, in a 4-6 year old class. It is so neat to watch her in there. I am reminded of our 'Little Sprouts' sports classes we took last summer. She will be an excellent student, as she just really listens and does exactly what is asked.

Super Bowl Champs

Crazy family, eh? We just ended a great visit with Nana, PapPap, and Grandma. We are so happy that Grandma made the trip, and I also got to interview her for posterity. I hope to begin work on our family tree. I found a great resource, dynastree.com, which helps make an easy family tree.

Happy Birthday Myra!

So my baby girl turned two this past week. Wow! Where did all that time come? Seems like just yesterday we were at Rex Med, and I was down at the McDonalds, in the snow, emailing pictures out. What a ride! Myra is definitely becoming her own person, which we love seeing. She definitely idolizes her big sister too!

A Cold Dam Run

Just wanted to take a quick moment to reflect on my run this morning. A good 6 miler from our house, to Falls Lake Dam, and through a variety of toepath hiking trails. During my Marathon training two years ago, I discovered the Falls Lake Trail, part of the Mountains to Sea Trail here in North Carolina. The FLT, 26 miles from start to finish, consists of a variety of 3-4 mile segments that spill out onto roads. Beautiful! We are so lucky to have such great trails so close. If I choose to complete another marathon this year, I will spend many hours and miles on these trails. We hope to get out with Lucy to do some hiking as well. Myra may not be quite ready yet!

My Online Gym

You will probably notice my Running Challenge on the sidebar. I wanted to find an online recordkeeping/workout site, and stumbled upon Gyminee. It will keep track of workouts, photos, and progress, while also providing you with many different challenges for motivation. This one is a 100 mile challenge, which I hope to have finished in March. Root me on!

Inauguration Picnic

So with all the snow this week, we all had the opportunity to watch the inauguration together. As you see, this was our lunch picnic, right at the time of the oath (the first one, haha!). It was pretty neat to have the girls there watching with us.
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Busy week of work, then we will have my folks coming into town on Friday. My Grandma will also make the trip, which we're excited about. They will be the first to stay with us since the girls began sharing a room. Besides the first 20 minutes of playing, they are doing well with it, so we will see how long that lasts!

Let It Snow...

Fun day. Multiple outings out in the snow. Unfortunately it was just some powdery snow, but we still made snowballs, trekked through the snow, and enjoyed it. Probably about 5-7 inches overall. Now school is canceled for tomorrow, due to BLACK ICE! Heehee!

Which Linux Distro Am I?

Which Linux distribution are you? My Result: I'm a Gentoo Chris I am a centered Zen master. I can enjoy games and media, but they aren't a way of life. I prefer to be the engineer building them instead. I am the hardest of workers, and I set a pretty brisk pace. Quiz School Take this quiz & get your result

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All Through The House...

...we await the snowfall! Yup, a forecasted 4-6 inches possible tonight through tomorrow. Of course I have wound the kids up pretty tight. I am just so excited to have ONE real snowfall. Snowmen, snow cream, heck, Myra has not even really seen snow yet. Cross your fingers!

A+ Day

A+, not because it's a great day, but I am spending the day studying to take my A+ Certification test. It is pretty much just a basic test of the hardware and software for computers and an industry standard.

Here are the results from a practice test I just took:


Score » 98 out of 100
Total Correct » 39 out of 40 correct
% Score » 97.5 %
Min. Pass % » 75 %
Result » Pass
Taken By » Chris
Time Taken » 15 mins 49 secs

See if you can beat me:

Essentials comptia A+ » Quiz School

What Metal Am I?

You Are Copper

You are provocative and challenging. You help people realize who they really are. You live a very balanced life. You always take time for love and art. You are both a powerful and generous person. You always have time to give back. People find you to be incredibly ethical and loyal.

What Metal Are You?

Baby, It's Cold Outside...

Wow! Single digits tonight and tomorrow night. We won't get out of the 20s tomorrow. While those Northerners may laugh, that is COLD for North Carolina. NO SNOW though! )-:

Running!

So it is my turn this year. November 1st, 2009 is the target for the marathon that I hope to run. I have not yet signed up for it, so I am not too committed, but I am trying to get into race shape. Ran a six miler today, down to the Falls Dam. It was my second in two weeks, and I felt pretty good. I hope to do an 8 miler next week on the Falls Lake Trail. Man, how I missed that trail! I am sure I will continue to update you on my progress!

Reflecting and Anticipating...

2008 was a pretty good year for us. I had a good year professionally. Continued for awhile at the State level, continued to make connections, and then made the move to become a Director of Technology for a local County School System. It has been a pretty good move for me. I continue to make some connections, while making a larger impact on a greater number of students. I also am working toward earning some professional certifications that will help me in the future.
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Familywise, things are GREAT! Lucy made the transition to 4 day a week preschool with ease. She continues to amaze us with her 'smarts,' and her kindness. She is such a compassionate little girl too. Myra also did well in starting two day a week preschool. She continues to discover her personality, and I can see she is going to be a little comedian. "MOMMY," in her best Exorcist voice. Haha! Kerry does well also, renewing her teaching license, as it appears she will go back into the classroom. She spent much of her time (besides being Mom!) training for her marathon. She completed the City of Oaks Marathon in November, with her loud cheering squad along the course.
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So what can we expect in 2009? Well, I hope to earn two professional certifications. I also plan to take my crack at another City of Oaks Marathons. Kerry looks to go back into the classrooom, so that we can make plans for a larger house eventually. Lucy and Myra will finish up preschool, then we will see what happens with that. A busy year, yet again!

Happy 2009--With Cable!

Well, as of 12:07AM, we still have VH1, Noggin, Nick, MTV, and all the Viacom channels. I am heading to bed, so I hope we'll still have them in the AM!
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Happy New Year!

The End of 2008...

Busy year. Two jobs, big trip to Texas, and, oh yeah, growing children. On this last day of the year, we'll try not to become too introspective, but we were busy, that's for sure. And busy yesterday too, what with the carpet cleaning, oil changing, car inspecting, toy playing, Christmas tree/light taking downing, and so much more. Phew! A slower day today. A run, trip to K-mart, and no big New Year's plans. We need a rest!

Home Again!

We survived another trip up North to the Great White North. Well, this year the Great White was the Great Green as temps soared into the high 60s in Pittsburgh. Our trip to Pittsburgh was nice, as we actually got out to the playground across the street, then we went over to a local library that I never knew existed. And what a library! It was in a large, older building. The floors were wood, they creaked, and the childrens' section was huge! Madison did an awesome job reading to both Lucy and Myra. Cole found lots of military books, and Uncle Gary rented movies. Yup, their library actually rents out movies. So cool!
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We got to finally have a Bull Dogs hotdog. It was alright, and their fries weren't bad. Coming home was a long trip, but we're home now, and have big plans for the week. Photos will be coming soon, as will the changing of the cars' oil, the cleaning of the carpets, and the cleaning of the sinks. Fun times!

Merry Christmas Eve!

So it starts! After a fun day yesterday (we met Greysen and Emma Kate at Marbles), Christmas Eve is here! This morning we hung out, I went for a 4 miler, then we went to Falls Dam and hiked around. Definitely a lot of fun being out in the open with the girls. And few were out to join us. I envision the rest out at the malls, stuck in traffic, and grumbly. Ahh...the outdoors!
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Once MJ wakes up, we will pack up to head to the Flanigans for Christmas Eve dinner. Mark, Christie, Aidan, and Maeve flew in this morning. Shannon will be up as well, so a nice family gathering. Then after presents tomorrow morning, we are heading up to PA for a few days, and we're looking forward to all those 'free cupoccino stops' at Sheetz! I think there are 7 on the way!

My Cute Little Snowglobe!

A SUITE Hockey Game...

Yeah, pretty good pun there, eh? Well, after many opportunities washed out, we finally attended a hockey game from a luxury suite. All four of us went, plus it was Bobblehead Night! As you can see, the girls throughly enjoyed it!

Tea For Two...or Six...

Our girls experienced the high life last weekend! Kerry, her cousins, and the girls decided to hold a 'high tea' with dress up, cookie decorating, and some serious fun. I love the creativity of my wife, providing all these opportunities for our girls. Neat, neat things! Of course I am a little late in posting, but the meaning is still there!

What Do My Snow Preferences Say About Me?

Your Snow Test Says You're Independent

You feel like something good will happen to you in the next few days. You love to work, especially when work is creative. You have the makings of a successful artist. You are an independent, individualistic person. You thrive when you're doing your own thing. Your biggest worry in your life is your health. You tend to be a bit of a hypochondriac. When it comes time to relax, you have difficulty relaxing. You are a bit high strung.

The Snow Test

My Linuxy, Christmasy, Baby Girl!

Optimistic View...

No matter if we make the playoffs again, ever, we'll always have this:

Definitely Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas...

I believe the hint is when you see the zambonis with Christmas lights on
Kerry and I received the pleasure to take in a Canes game while the in-laws watched the girls. It was our first together since before Myra. Hard to believe! We wished the outcome was a little better (Canes lost in OT), but I knew that would happen with the new/old coach. Yup, shortly before that, the Canes fired Stanley Cup winning coach Peter Laviolette to replace him with Paul Maurice. Yes, the Paul Maurice that was fired from the Hurricanes. Yes, the Paul Maurice that was fired from the Toronto Maple Leafs after not making the playoffs at all.
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Players, even from different teams, do get in the holiday spirit! Look at this hugging! {/sarcasm}

Lucy and Myra Boogie to the Bunny Hop

I remember posting the video of Lucy doing the Bunny Hop a few years ago. Now Myra gets involved. And she is quite the little dancer!

Surfing The Web!

Boy, how my girls love the computer! They are actually quite good at navigating around. We spend some time on a variety of websites, including Starfall (www.starfall.com), Sesame Street, and even some YouTube videos. Lucy spends some time on some painting applications, and she especially enjoys TuxPaint, a free, open-source application. Lately, we have been designing cards for family using Open Office.
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We try not to have them use the computer too much, as too much like TV, but I think we also realize these digital resources will be their future. I think, in moderation, we are providing them with the tools they will need as they grow-up. And Daddy likes to share those with his girls! (-:

NCETC 2008

Back to Greensboro for yet another conference. Unfortunately, I believe this may be the last for awhile. I just do not pull as much from the conference like I used to. I guess it is not exclusive to this conference, as I felt this overall at NECC as well. In the future, I plan to open it up to teachers in my district, as I feel that will help us generate more interest in technology. I do certainly enjoy the networking a conference offers though. Lots of my ex-colleagues and 'plurkers' are here, so I do benefit from that sharing of knowledge. Interesting though, how each of the past four years, I've been in a different place for this conference!

Yeah, I Am Old Skool, Fo' Sho'!

So, Do You Think We're Ready For Christmas?

I do just love Christmas time. Here we are, Thanksgiving Weekend, 2008, and my girls are so excited. Yesterday we ventured off as a family to Home Depot to pick up our tree, brought it home, lit it, and hung the ornaments. The girls are so excited! Today after naps, we plan to go to the used book store, then stop by K-Mart. Simple things, but so much fun this time of year!
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Busy week, as I head off to Greensboro for the annual NCETC technology conference. While the program does not look especially enticing, I will be there with many friends, dinner at Bonefish, and just some good times.

Christmas Is Next!

So we had a nice Thanksgiving yesterday, and Kerry is out and about now for Black Friday, but the exciting news is the next holiday is Christmas!

We went out to Hidden Lake to spend Thanksgiving with Kerry's folks and Shannon. Had a really nice visit. Kerry, her dad, and I spent some of the time trying to install a basketball hoop with limited success. Who woulda thunk that many pieces go into setting up a hoop. We did not finish, so I am sure this project will continue for me. After a yummy meal, we went for a little walk, and Lucy and I hiked through the woods.
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This morning Kerry is out shopping with her Mom and sister. They planned to leave at 5:30, and I cannot confirm or deny that, as I was fast asleep! I have a big day of eRate--woohoo!

Edubuntu At Work

So here I am, working on adding Edubuntu to an old desktop that is ready for the warehouse. Warehouse of course, meaning the graveyard. So I swiped it and want to try my devious plan in loading a stand-alone Edubuntu on it. I plan to remove the network card so that if these do get placed back in the classrooms, they could not be placed on the network.

What I am really looking to do is provide some stand-alone machines that teachers can allow students to work on. They can type on them, use a spreadsheet, play educational games, and many other tasks. In essence, it will provide more workstations in a classroom. So we will see what happens! If it works, then it will be a matter of convincing my colleagues.

Raleigh Christmas Parade...

Another year, another parade. Although this year it was quite cold! We all dressed in layers, then Kerry and I hunched down on blankets on the road and both girls snuggled in close to us. Kerry's folks went with us, so that made it more fun! Definitely got us all in the Christmas spirit. We stayed busy this weekend, stringing lights (the girls love helping!), finishing some presents, and a trip to Target. Kerry and I plan to go out shopping soon, then we actually have a hockey game coming up.

Myra and Elmo

The girl loves her some Elmo! She was in such a good mood during this...she could've gone on for quite awhile chasing him!

Snow in Raleigh Today!

Yup, on my way to work, I had snow as I drove in. And we still had school! It was pretty though, snow coming down hard, laying on the trees. And 101.5 began to play 24 hours of Christmas music. So of course I jammed out! Tomorrow we go downtown for the Raleigh Christmas Parade. It will begin in the 20s, then rise to the high temps of 30s. Brrrr! The Flanigans will accompany us on the trip. Fun!

Computer Ease

Yup, I believe I *finally* can say things are up and working in the home. Rearranged some equipment, moved the laser printer to the bookshelf, and the XPS continues to stay on! Some other equipment for the E1705 laptop, we downgraded 8.10 to 8.04 (feels like Vista a little), and everything is running smoothly. I am actually typing this on the Mac, and considering using this just for the girls. The mp3 players are good too! All is well in the technology universe.

Tingles the Christmas Tension

Growing up in Johnstown, PA, this makes me smile! There was a series of videos from the 50s, Hardrock, Coco, and Joe, Suzy Snowflake, and Frosty that were always shown. This kinda pokes some fun at them! Heehee!

Christmas Is Here!

Spent the past 30 minutes scouring YouTube for Christmas-ish videos--yup, commericals, Charlie Brown, and music. Then we were dancing to Baby It's Cold Outside, Jingle Bell Rock, and more. I true get a natural high from seeing the join in my girls' eyes as we get excited for Christmas. It will be such a fun time!
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So I'm Back to Amarok...

These iRiver players are about to be the death of me. Just when I think I fine-tuned everything, I decide I want to change things up. On my iRiver Clix, I used Rhythmbox in Ubuntu to download my podcasts, then gnomad to organize my song lists and transfer music to the Clix. Yes, it took an extra step, but it worked. Unlike my iRiver E100, which I dual boot into Windows to make work. So this weekend, as I finally repaired the XPS 400 (I think!), I decided to give Banshee a shot. Seems it would make a better organization, so why not? Well, it did not work, and then worse, it blocked my ability to sync music through gnomad. So I completely formatted the Clix, and now am using Amarok once again. If I can find how to transfer videos, I will be set!
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Yes, you did read right--the XPS 400 is, what I think, finally fully functioning. For the past six months or so, I had an intermittent problem where after a random amount of time, it would shutdown. Sometimes when off it would click on and boot by itself as well. My first thought, after some lengthy calls with Dell was the motherboard and power supply, which I both replaced. No change. Tried some changes with the OS, but again, nothing. My last shot was a new I/O Panel and ribbon cable, which I replaced this weekend, and after having it on all day, it has yet to shut off. We'll keep our fingers crossed.

It's Not Christmas Without Eat N Park...

If you grow up in Western or Central Pennsylvania, only one commercial means Christmas has come, the Eat N Park Christmas Tree commericial. Everyone knows it. I have even seen it at a Penguins' hockey game. So all of you unfamiliar with it, I provide it for your viewing pleasure.

Future for The Shearers

So, a State of the State for us? No, not as formal, but I just wanted to get out in text what we're working on, toward, and looking into the future. Of course with me, it continues as furthering my professional skill set. In doing this, I am looking at acquiring some professional certifications. Right now, I am working toward my A+ Certification, as that should not take too much effort. After that, I will work toward my Linux+ Certification. Of course, we love LINUX! (-: While I do not really want to go any further than those two, both will hopefully make me marketable down the road, should I choose that path.
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School continues for the girls. Both are doing well. Lucy continues to leave us speechless with her intellect. She is just so smart--it's scary at times. She has a huge sight word vocabulary, in addition to the 20-40+ books she can read from memory. And her number sense is just amazing. We brought home my old Sears electronic quiz book, and she already does 90% of the 7-8 year old book correctly. Wow! Myra is doing well also. She had a little gap recently due to a virus she could not get rid of, but is well on the mend now. Her speech continues--she can converse with us, and we understand her. I do think that her big sister pushes her for this, so that is another good influence.
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Kerry did amazing in her marathon--just over 4 hours. While the conditions (75 degrees by the end of her run) and the course (still hilly, even when reversed from last year) were not ideal, she still did awesome! We were so proud of her. The girls and I really enjoyed our time out on the course waiting for her! She amazes me everyday!

Wordle While You Work...

Pretty neat tool, this Wordle is. What this does is generate a tag cloud of popular words in your blog, a story, article, or any other written piece to show you interesting trends. Lots of application out and about in the education world as well.

I Could Get Used to This Image...

Besides all the good feelings for minorities, it feels good to know that our world image and reputation has gone up overnight. Yes, as Obama said, this is not the change, just the chance to create change, but now we know of a fresh start coming in January.

This Makes Me LOL!

Seriously though, it is time to move on and leave the woman alone. It was a tough, and at times nasty, campaign, and it is now over. Media--get over it and let her and Mr. McCain go back to their lives. And I am a Democrat-whoda thunk it!

Los homcimos! She Did It!

Kerry finished the 2nd Annual City of Oaks Marathon this morning. The girls and I were out on the course to cheer her on! More following, but just wanted to share this proud moment!
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Halloween, 2008

Christmas Music Begins!

Yes, we made it through October, and now November is here--and we know in our house--the Christmas music begins. In years past, I did it with some eyebrows raised by Kerry. Now, with Lucy and Myra being fired up, I have two strong Christmas lovers, so the music flows easily. Today we rocked out to some Brenda Lee among others. Hard to believe it is that time though!
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Hard to believe the election that we never thought would get here is HERE! Truly, I will be happy on Wednesday morning--provided McCain does not have a hissy fit and prolong the results ala' John Kerry and Al Gore a few years back.

So The Ride Is About Over...

We go to the polls in 6 days. Or in Kerry and my case, we sent in our absentee ballots about two weeks ago. I cannot believe we found ourselves as caught up in this as we did this year. I even listen to NPR on the way to work. Me! NPR! I do enjoy watching The Daily Show, the Keith Olbermann and Rachel Maddow. I will not say who I prefer (duh!), but from my blog, I am sure you can tell.

This Makes Me Laugh...

I am not a fan of Andy or Happy Days, but given the state of things, this is very appropriate:

See more Ron Howard videos at Funny or Die

October, Already?

Yup--hard to believe we just passed my daughter's fourth birthday. And now we find ourselves two weeks until Christmas music starts. Wow! Where does all the time fly to?
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We had an unexpected trip to PA this past week due to the unfortunate passing of my grandfather, Skinny. My folks were to come down for Lucy's birthday, but we went up instead for the service and to spend time with my Grandma. Sad, but the man led a full life. I am so blessed that he met both of my daughters. I have so many fond memories of him, and so many life lessons he taught me, helping me become the person I am.

5 Friends - Don't Vote!

Whatever your views, this video just wants you to vote!

Fun in the Flowers!

So cute! My two sweet little girls!

Preschool Begins Again!

Well, I am a few weeks behind, but wanted to post a few pictures from the past few weeks. Lucy and Myra both went back to preschool. It was touch and go with Myra at first, even a few other kids dropped out, but she loves it now! Word on the street is that they blow bubbles first thing in the morning! How can any kid (or adult) not love that. Lucy adjusted quickly to Ms. Donna and Ms. Christy. She also has some of her old pals in her class, including her buddy Anna W and Ella Grace. Yes, the daughter of the hockey player! (-: Then she has some new kids as well--a new buddy, Alexandra. We are just so amazed and proud of the progress she is making!

October is Almost Here--And That Means Christmas!

Ok, so most of you know I love Christmas...no, I mean really love it. I begin listening to Christmas music (mostly instrumental, at least until the 15th! ha!) on November 1st. But as we were out and about yesterday, we noticed a few stores, BJs and the Dollar Tree, with Christmas decorations, lights, trees, and more out already. Not even October 1st, and Christmas things are out. Wow!
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A nice weekend so far. Yesterday Kerry and I both got out for a run, then we went over to the Dam. Hiked down to where water is released from Falls Lake. The water comes rushing out at such a high rate that tons of folks take kayaks and ride on the rapids. The girls liked watching them, especially when they rolled over! Today we went for our first family portrait (it turned out so cute!), then Trader Joe's, and lunch at Red Lobster. Fun times!
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First presidential debate the other night. Loved hearing 'Granddaddy' McCain talk to Obama like he was a little boy. Come on, seriously--people think this type of 'talking down' is what we need in this 21st Century? Imagine McCain talking to Iran like that--we would be nuked for sure!

Arrrr You Reading This Post?

So yesterday was talk like a Pirate Day. I figured I would check to see how much of a pirate I am...And I do like my booty! Or other's booty! Ha!

You Are 50% Pirate

Garrrr, yer a true pirate down to yer bones. Yer an originial sea dog, an' ye certainly have earned yer sea legs. No one be goin' to accuse ye o' bein' a landlubber. Ye got yer eye on the prize, an' yer willin' to go pillagin' fer some booty.

Would You Make a Good Pirate?

Fall Is Here!

Wow...what a nice change from the summer. We have had some days of mid 70s and lows in the 50s. How nice has this been! Let's just hope it continues. What I like is the ability to just go out and play outside, or go to the playground, or a spontaneous trip to Durant Nature Park, like we did yesterday. And it was so nice--we pretty much had the park to ourselves!
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Busy weekend--Lucy has a birthday party today. Tomorrow we will help Kerry's folks with their storage unit-although I do hear Rudino's pizza and some Yuenling may be the compensation!

Bizzzzz--eeee!

Well, I am tired of saying that in every post, but we are sooo busy. As evidenced by my lack of posts this month.
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Kerry's folks are in North Carolina officially. They came down last Wednesday and spent their first night in the house Thursday. We went over on Friday to visit, then went back over on Sunday to help hook some equipment up and help unpack. The girls are really going to love having their grandparents close by. They just tore around the house--funny! They even have a whole closet dedicated to their toys. Then Kerry's dad and I went and bought two big screen tvs yesterday. Unfortunately no buy 2 get one free for Chris, but I am definitely excited to go over there to watch some hockey games!
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The new job is good as well. It keeps me busy, but I really enjoy the leadership that I receive. Have a staff under me is a new experience as well, but I feel I need this experience to grow professionally as well. In three weeks, I definitely have grown!

MORE COWBELL!

	Make your own at MoreCowbell.dj

So This One Definitely Has Me Pegged...

You Are a Realist

You don't see the glass as half empty or half full. You see what's exactly in the glass. You never try to make a bad situation seem better than it is... But you also never sabotage any good things you have going on. You are brutally honest in your assessments of situations - and this always seems to help you cope.

Are You An Optimist or Pessimist?

More From PA...

Our Visit to Trampoline, PA...

That's really what the trip was all about! Our girls pretty much lived in that trampoline, as you can see from the pictures. We did enjoy our visit, and look forward to seeing Nana and PapPap in October in Raleigh!
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Last day here at the Downtown office. On Thursday I will officially begin my Director of Technology and Media position. Looking forward to that, seeing the focus of technology they have and the support given to technology and media programs from the system, school board, and community.

Annual Summer Pilgrimmage to PA...

Must be August, as we'll be heading up to Pennsylvania tomorrow. While not looking forward to that 7 hour car ride with a 3 1/2 year old who gets carsick in the summer and an 18 mos. old who screams upon entering the car these days, I know the girls will have fun with their Nana and PapPap, plus Aunt Jenny and Cole. Should be a fun time, but then we'll have the carride back on Sunday...
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Getting ready to take my new position as Director of Technology and Media. I will begin next Thursday and have two days with the existing director before her retirement, then will be on my own! I am excited, as I feel well qualified and can bring some great ideas into a technology-supported district. We shall see!

Smashing Pumpkins in Raleigh

So two nights ago I saw the Pumpkins yet again Downtown at the Memorial Auditorium. Pretty neat venue for a rock concert, and rock is just what they did. Yes, some may complain that this is still Billy's band, but it always was, just with folks interchanged.
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They played a nice variety of music and faves (first time I heard Mayo LIVE!). Tonight, Tonight and Today were good. They had this acoustic-ish session, and then for the encore, the kazooing for 'We Only Come Out at Night' and 'In the Summertime.' So cool! more info later...