To blog more. I miss it, and I miss you....Really.This picture of us is not from the Christmas Card that we haven't sent out yet (note the hopeful yet), but we were trying.
Here's what you missed just last week -
Happy New Year!!!!
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
New Year's Resolution...
To blog more. I miss it, and I miss you....Really.This picture of us is not from the Christmas Card that we haven't sent out yet (note the hopeful yet), but we were trying.
Here's what you missed just last week -
Friday, December 26, 2008
Christmas Cold
Look how pretty and fun this is! Gabby noticed the ice when we were running around shopping this week, so we snapped a picture. Brrrrr!
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Working Girl Update
I'm still having so much fun with my jewelry business! Work and the kiddos keep me very busy...and my Outlander Series! I can't get enough of the Scottish Highlands!! It's "verra" distracting. Oh yeah, but I'm talking about my julz...I have 4 trunk shows scheduled this week. I love to parti!! I'm having a great time!
I've had three failed attempts at capturing a photo for our Christmas card. I should post some of the "good" ones.
That's all folks!
Luvs
I've had three failed attempts at capturing a photo for our Christmas card. I should post some of the "good" ones.
That's all folks!
Luvs
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Chinn Family Funnies
Baden: (crying) "Oooouuuch, May May kicked me in the stomach..."
Bill: "Ah, are you okay Buddy?"
Baden: (irritated) "NO, I'm not okay. I just got kicked in the stomach."
Bill: "Ah, are you okay Buddy?"
Baden: (irritated) "NO, I'm not okay. I just got kicked in the stomach."
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Election Day
My Country, 'Tis of TheeMy country,' tis of thee,
Sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing;
Land where my fathers died,
Land of the pilgrims' pride,
From every mountainside let freedom ring!
My native country, thee,
Land of the noble free, thy name I love;
I love thy rocks and rills,
Thy woods and templed hills;
My heart with rapture thrills, like that above.
Let music swell the breeze,
And ring from all the trees sweet freedom's song;
Let mortal tongues awake;
Let all that breathe partake;
Let rocks their silence break, the sound prolong.
Our fathers' God, to thee,
Author of liberty, to thee we sing;
Long may our land be bright
With freedom's holy light;
Protect us by thy might, great God, our King.
*My initial thoughts on President Elect Obama - Congratulations to him and his supporters. As an American Patriot I hope that he is a successful President. I'm ecstatic that an African American has been elected by the popular vote. What an historic time in American History! I love my country and am, as always, proud to be an American. Wow, an African American First Family. What an amazing country we call Home!
Monday, November 3, 2008
Histories Heroes
Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Susan B. Anthony, Sojourner Truth . . .
The following article originally appeared in the September 1912 issue of The Crisis, a journal considered one of the leading forces in "the New Negro Movement and the Harlem Renaissance." Martha Gruening, a Caucasian woman, was a contributed to The Crisis. She worked for such causes as racial justice and peace. She served for a time as secretary to Herbert Seligmann, the director of public relations for the NAACP.
Two Suffrage Movements
by Martha Gruening
The Crisis Vol. 4 (September 1912), pp. 245-247
The woman suffrage movement in England and America really dates from the beginning of the anti-slavery struggle. It was not only contemporaneous with it, but it owes its existence in a large measure to this phase of the struggle for human rights. For it was in the abolitionist ranks that the early suffragists received their training, both as thinkers and propagandists. It was impossible for them to agitate continually for the freedom of the Negro without desiring freedom for themselves, or realizing the parallel between his situation and their own. For if the Negro was a slave the married woman of that day was no less a chattel. She was no longer openly bought and sold, but she had no more than he, a separate legal existence. If the Negro slave belonged to his master, she belonged no less, absolutely, to her husband as did her property, her earnings, and even her children. Both were disfranchised. Both were deprived of education and subject to economic disabilities which they shared with no other class. Even the constitutional right of free speech was not extended to woman when it meant public speech, as she found when she wished to join in the protest against slavery; and even among the abolitionists her presence on platforms and committees caused serious dissensions.
The most striking instance of this was offered at the World's Antislavery Convention held in London in 1840, when the credentials of the American women delegates were refused for no other reason than that they were women. They were, indeed, allowed to be present, but not to have any part in the proceedings. With this they had to be content, as their fellow delegates apparently were, the only exceptions being William Lloyd Garrison and Nathaniel Rogers, the editor of the Herald of Freedom. Of all the men present these two alone seemed to realize that a principle was at stake, and rather than compromise on a point they felt to be vital they resigned their seats in the convention, remaining merely as spectators in the gallery.
This was one of many bitter experiences that taught women the lesson of their own impotence. To many of those rejected delegates, among them Lucretia Mott and Elizabeth Cady Stanton, it brought an overwhelming realization that they were still something less than human in the minds of most men and a conviction that their first duty was to free themselves from the artificial restraints imposed on them because of their sex; that then and then only they could work with men as equals. In these two women, at least, the action of the convention kindled a profound resolve to work toward this end, resulting in an agitation which culminated in the women's rights convention of 1848 and its now famous "declaration of rights." This convention held at Seneca Falls, N.Y., and attended by about 100 men and women, was denounced by the press of that date as "the most unnatural and shocking incident in the history of humanity," while the declaration excited almost universal derision. This document stated the belief of its framers in the equality of men and women and demanded for women education, the liberty of entering all trades and professions, the right to appear in public, the right to "work with men in any good cause," reminiscent of the anti-slavery convention, and, finally, the ballot.
It is significant that of all the resolutions offered at this convention this one alone was not unanimously adopted. It was finally carried by a small majority, but throughout the discussion only two of those present, Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Frederick Douglass, warmly favored it. They alone at this stage seem to have grasped the fact that all rights and privileges go back to this most fundamental right. Throughout the storm of ridicule and abuse which broke out after the convention Douglass maintained his position and brilliantly defended the convention in his paper, The North Star.
The early history of the suffrage movement abounds with like incidents showing the help given to the cause by colored people.
Perhaps none is more striking than the story of Sojourner Truth at the Akron convention, quoted from the "Reminiscences of Mrs. Frances D. Gage":
The second day the work waxed warm. Methodist, Baptist, Episcopal, Presbyterian and Universalist ministers came in to hear and discuss the resolutions presented. One claimed superior rights and privileges for man, on the ground of "superior intellect"; another because of the "manhood of Christ"; another gave us a theological view of the "sin of our first mother." Through all these sessions Sojourner Truth, quiet and reticent, sat crouched against the wall, on the corner of the pulpit stairs, her elbows on her knees, her chin resting on her broad, hard palms. Again and again, timorous and trembling ones came to me and said with earnestness: "Don't let her speak, Mrs. Gage, it will ruin us."
There were very few in those days who dared "speak in meeting," and the august teachers of the people were seemingly getting the better of us, while the boys in the gallery and the sneerers in the pews were hugely enjoying the discomfiture as they supposed of the "strong minded." Some of the tender-skinned friends were on the point of losing dignity and the atmosphere betokened a storm, when slowly from her seat in the corner rose Sojourner Truth. "Don't let her speak," gasped half a dozen in my ear. She moved slowly and solemnly to the front and turned her great speaking eyes to me. There was a hissing sound of disapprobation, both above and below, as I announced "Sojourner Truth" and begged the audience to keep silence for a few minutes. At her first words there was a profound hush. She spoke in deep tones, not loud, but which reached every ear in the house, and away through the throng at the doors and windows.
"Wall, chilern, whar dar is so much racket dar must be somethin' out o' kilter. I reckon dat 'twixt de Niggers in de Souf and de women in de Norf, de white men will be in a fix pretty soon. But what's all dis here talkin' about?
"Dat man ober darsays dat women needs to be helped into carriages, and lifted ober ditches, and to hab de best place everywhar. Nobody eber helps me into carriages or ober mud puddles, or gibs me de best place! And ain't I a woman? Look at me! Look at my arm" (and she bared her tremendous arm showing her great muscular power). "I have ploughed, I have planted and gathered into barns and noone could head me -- and ain't I a woman? I could work as much and eat as much as a man -when I could get it -- and bear de lash as well, and ain't I a woman? I have borne thirteen chilern and seen most of dem sold off into slavery, and when I cried out in my mother's grief, none but Jesus heard me; and ain't I a woman?
" Den dey talks 'bout dis ting in de head. What dey call it?" ("Intellect," someone whispered.) "Dat's it, honey. What's dat got to do with Nigger's rights or women's rights? If my cup won't hold but a pint and yours holds a quart, wouldn't you be mean not to let me have my little half measure full?" (And she sent a keen glance at the minister who made the argument. The cheering was long and loud.)
"Den dat man ober dar, he say women can't have as much right as men 'cause Christ wan't a woman! Whar did your Christ come from?" (Rolling thunder couldn't have stilled the crowd as did those deep wonderful tones as she stood with outstretched arms and eyes of fire.) "Whar did your Christ come from? From God and a woman. Man had nothin' to do with him!" What a rebuke that was to the little man!
Lastly she took up the defense of Mother Eve, eliciting almost deafening applause at every word, and finally returned to her corner, leaving many of us with streaming eyes and hearts beating with gratitude. She had taken us up in her strong arms and carried us safely over the slough of difficulty, turning the whole tide in our favor. I have never seen anything like the magical influence which turned the sneers and jeers of an excited crowd into notes of respect and admiration.
If such incidents have been less frequent in recent years it is not because the profound and close connection between the Negro and women movements no longer exists. The parallel between their respective situations is as clear to-day as it was in 1848, but it is too frequently ignored by the reformers on both sides. Both have made some progress toward complete emancipation, the gains of women in the direction of enfranchisement being seemingly the more lasting. Both, however, are still very largely disfranchised, and subject to those peculiar educational, legal and economic discriminations that are the natural results of disfranchisement. And finally, both are being brought with every onward step nearer to the identical temptation -- to sacrifice the principle of true democracy to the winning of a single skirmish. So when one sees a national body of suffragists refusing to pass a universal suffrage resolution, one is compelled to wonder at the logic of those who, knowing so well what disfranchisement means, would allow it to be inflicted on others. "Let us not confuse the issue," these suffragists plead, some in good faith. Yet the confusion, if any, exists only in their minds. Here are not two distinct issues at stake, but merely the vital principle of democracy. Others insist that the granting of the ballot to women must precede all other reforms because "women have waited long enough" and recall the fact that women were forced to stand aside and see Negro men enfranchised at the close of the Civil War. This is undoubtedly true and was quite justly a source of bitter disappointment to the suffrage leaders of that day -a disappointment we should not underestimate -- but merely to reverse the principles in an unjust occurrence is not to work justice. It is strange to see so many suffragists who point with pride to the action of Garrison in withdrawing from the anti-slavery convention, blind to the larger significance of that action. Stranger still to see them following, not Garrison's lead, but that of the convention in their attitude toward colored people, and forgetting that no cause is great to the exclusion of every other. This Robert Purvis, a noted colored leader, understood, as is shown by his noble reply to the suffragists' appeal: "I cannot agree that this or any hour is specially the Negro's. I am an anti-slavery man. With what grace could I ask the women of this country to labor for my enfranchisement and at the same time be unwilling to put forth a hand to remove the tyranny in some respects greater to which they are exposed?" This is what all suffragists must understand, whatever their sex or color -- that all the disfranchised of the earth have a common cause.
The following article originally appeared in the September 1912 issue of The Crisis, a journal considered one of the leading forces in "the New Negro Movement and the Harlem Renaissance." Martha Gruening, a Caucasian woman, was a contributed to The Crisis. She worked for such causes as racial justice and peace. She served for a time as secretary to Herbert Seligmann, the director of public relations for the NAACP.
Two Suffrage Movements
by Martha Gruening
The Crisis Vol. 4 (September 1912), pp. 245-247
The woman suffrage movement in England and America really dates from the beginning of the anti-slavery struggle. It was not only contemporaneous with it, but it owes its existence in a large measure to this phase of the struggle for human rights. For it was in the abolitionist ranks that the early suffragists received their training, both as thinkers and propagandists. It was impossible for them to agitate continually for the freedom of the Negro without desiring freedom for themselves, or realizing the parallel between his situation and their own. For if the Negro was a slave the married woman of that day was no less a chattel. She was no longer openly bought and sold, but she had no more than he, a separate legal existence. If the Negro slave belonged to his master, she belonged no less, absolutely, to her husband as did her property, her earnings, and even her children. Both were disfranchised. Both were deprived of education and subject to economic disabilities which they shared with no other class. Even the constitutional right of free speech was not extended to woman when it meant public speech, as she found when she wished to join in the protest against slavery; and even among the abolitionists her presence on platforms and committees caused serious dissensions.
The most striking instance of this was offered at the World's Antislavery Convention held in London in 1840, when the credentials of the American women delegates were refused for no other reason than that they were women. They were, indeed, allowed to be present, but not to have any part in the proceedings. With this they had to be content, as their fellow delegates apparently were, the only exceptions being William Lloyd Garrison and Nathaniel Rogers, the editor of the Herald of Freedom. Of all the men present these two alone seemed to realize that a principle was at stake, and rather than compromise on a point they felt to be vital they resigned their seats in the convention, remaining merely as spectators in the gallery.
This was one of many bitter experiences that taught women the lesson of their own impotence. To many of those rejected delegates, among them Lucretia Mott and Elizabeth Cady Stanton, it brought an overwhelming realization that they were still something less than human in the minds of most men and a conviction that their first duty was to free themselves from the artificial restraints imposed on them because of their sex; that then and then only they could work with men as equals. In these two women, at least, the action of the convention kindled a profound resolve to work toward this end, resulting in an agitation which culminated in the women's rights convention of 1848 and its now famous "declaration of rights." This convention held at Seneca Falls, N.Y., and attended by about 100 men and women, was denounced by the press of that date as "the most unnatural and shocking incident in the history of humanity," while the declaration excited almost universal derision. This document stated the belief of its framers in the equality of men and women and demanded for women education, the liberty of entering all trades and professions, the right to appear in public, the right to "work with men in any good cause," reminiscent of the anti-slavery convention, and, finally, the ballot.
It is significant that of all the resolutions offered at this convention this one alone was not unanimously adopted. It was finally carried by a small majority, but throughout the discussion only two of those present, Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Frederick Douglass, warmly favored it. They alone at this stage seem to have grasped the fact that all rights and privileges go back to this most fundamental right. Throughout the storm of ridicule and abuse which broke out after the convention Douglass maintained his position and brilliantly defended the convention in his paper, The North Star.
The early history of the suffrage movement abounds with like incidents showing the help given to the cause by colored people.
Perhaps none is more striking than the story of Sojourner Truth at the Akron convention, quoted from the "Reminiscences of Mrs. Frances D. Gage":
The second day the work waxed warm. Methodist, Baptist, Episcopal, Presbyterian and Universalist ministers came in to hear and discuss the resolutions presented. One claimed superior rights and privileges for man, on the ground of "superior intellect"; another because of the "manhood of Christ"; another gave us a theological view of the "sin of our first mother." Through all these sessions Sojourner Truth, quiet and reticent, sat crouched against the wall, on the corner of the pulpit stairs, her elbows on her knees, her chin resting on her broad, hard palms. Again and again, timorous and trembling ones came to me and said with earnestness: "Don't let her speak, Mrs. Gage, it will ruin us."
There were very few in those days who dared "speak in meeting," and the august teachers of the people were seemingly getting the better of us, while the boys in the gallery and the sneerers in the pews were hugely enjoying the discomfiture as they supposed of the "strong minded." Some of the tender-skinned friends were on the point of losing dignity and the atmosphere betokened a storm, when slowly from her seat in the corner rose Sojourner Truth. "Don't let her speak," gasped half a dozen in my ear. She moved slowly and solemnly to the front and turned her great speaking eyes to me. There was a hissing sound of disapprobation, both above and below, as I announced "Sojourner Truth" and begged the audience to keep silence for a few minutes. At her first words there was a profound hush. She spoke in deep tones, not loud, but which reached every ear in the house, and away through the throng at the doors and windows.
"Wall, chilern, whar dar is so much racket dar must be somethin' out o' kilter. I reckon dat 'twixt de Niggers in de Souf and de women in de Norf, de white men will be in a fix pretty soon. But what's all dis here talkin' about?
"Dat man ober darsays dat women needs to be helped into carriages, and lifted ober ditches, and to hab de best place everywhar. Nobody eber helps me into carriages or ober mud puddles, or gibs me de best place! And ain't I a woman? Look at me! Look at my arm" (and she bared her tremendous arm showing her great muscular power). "I have ploughed, I have planted and gathered into barns and noone could head me -- and ain't I a woman? I could work as much and eat as much as a man -when I could get it -- and bear de lash as well, and ain't I a woman? I have borne thirteen chilern and seen most of dem sold off into slavery, and when I cried out in my mother's grief, none but Jesus heard me; and ain't I a woman?
" Den dey talks 'bout dis ting in de head. What dey call it?" ("Intellect," someone whispered.) "Dat's it, honey. What's dat got to do with Nigger's rights or women's rights? If my cup won't hold but a pint and yours holds a quart, wouldn't you be mean not to let me have my little half measure full?" (And she sent a keen glance at the minister who made the argument. The cheering was long and loud.)
"Den dat man ober dar, he say women can't have as much right as men 'cause Christ wan't a woman! Whar did your Christ come from?" (Rolling thunder couldn't have stilled the crowd as did those deep wonderful tones as she stood with outstretched arms and eyes of fire.) "Whar did your Christ come from? From God and a woman. Man had nothin' to do with him!" What a rebuke that was to the little man!
Lastly she took up the defense of Mother Eve, eliciting almost deafening applause at every word, and finally returned to her corner, leaving many of us with streaming eyes and hearts beating with gratitude. She had taken us up in her strong arms and carried us safely over the slough of difficulty, turning the whole tide in our favor. I have never seen anything like the magical influence which turned the sneers and jeers of an excited crowd into notes of respect and admiration.
If such incidents have been less frequent in recent years it is not because the profound and close connection between the Negro and women movements no longer exists. The parallel between their respective situations is as clear to-day as it was in 1848, but it is too frequently ignored by the reformers on both sides. Both have made some progress toward complete emancipation, the gains of women in the direction of enfranchisement being seemingly the more lasting. Both, however, are still very largely disfranchised, and subject to those peculiar educational, legal and economic discriminations that are the natural results of disfranchisement. And finally, both are being brought with every onward step nearer to the identical temptation -- to sacrifice the principle of true democracy to the winning of a single skirmish. So when one sees a national body of suffragists refusing to pass a universal suffrage resolution, one is compelled to wonder at the logic of those who, knowing so well what disfranchisement means, would allow it to be inflicted on others. "Let us not confuse the issue," these suffragists plead, some in good faith. Yet the confusion, if any, exists only in their minds. Here are not two distinct issues at stake, but merely the vital principle of democracy. Others insist that the granting of the ballot to women must precede all other reforms because "women have waited long enough" and recall the fact that women were forced to stand aside and see Negro men enfranchised at the close of the Civil War. This is undoubtedly true and was quite justly a source of bitter disappointment to the suffrage leaders of that day -a disappointment we should not underestimate -- but merely to reverse the principles in an unjust occurrence is not to work justice. It is strange to see so many suffragists who point with pride to the action of Garrison in withdrawing from the anti-slavery convention, blind to the larger significance of that action. Stranger still to see them following, not Garrison's lead, but that of the convention in their attitude toward colored people, and forgetting that no cause is great to the exclusion of every other. This Robert Purvis, a noted colored leader, understood, as is shown by his noble reply to the suffragists' appeal: "I cannot agree that this or any hour is specially the Negro's. I am an anti-slavery man. With what grace could I ask the women of this country to labor for my enfranchisement and at the same time be unwilling to put forth a hand to remove the tyranny in some respects greater to which they are exposed?" This is what all suffragists must understand, whatever their sex or color -- that all the disfranchised of the earth have a common cause.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Sunday Funnies
"Why is it called Fast? It's been the slowest day EVER!" -May, after her first "fast"
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
A Bedtime Story
Me: "Baden, do you want some popcorn?"
Baden: "Yep."
Me: "Oops, it's past 8:00. Have some popcorn and then you need to go to bed."
Baden: "Darn it, I was hoping you wouldn't notice!"
May: "Oooooooo, Baden said a bad word!"
Me: "No he didn't, he said 'darn it.'"
Baden: "Yeah, damn it's a bad word."
(Me throwing exasperated evil eyes)
May: Laughing hysterically. "I knew it! I knew I could get you to say a bad word!!"
Yeah, I don't even know where to start with this one.
Send help.
Baden: "Yep."
Me: "Oops, it's past 8:00. Have some popcorn and then you need to go to bed."
Baden: "Darn it, I was hoping you wouldn't notice!"
May: "Oooooooo, Baden said a bad word!"
Me: "No he didn't, he said 'darn it.'"
Baden: "Yeah, damn it's a bad word."
(Me throwing exasperated evil eyes)
May: Laughing hysterically. "I knew it! I knew I could get you to say a bad word!!"
Yeah, I don't even know where to start with this one.
Send help.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Get A Job!
Remember when people used to say that?? It was a long time ago, so maybe not. But anyway - - I did.
I got a job!
I'm so excited to be working at Stella & Dot! It's a new jewelry company with the most fabulous boutique style baubles! My friend, Mike, is the CEO and I see Marci (his wife, my friend) wearing the jewelry all the time - oh, and I've bought a ton already! I love the jewels so much that I just wanted to be a part of the business somehow. Marci suggested that I talk to Mike about buying pieces at a discount, wearing them around in my normal life, and be walking advertisement. Okay fun, but not enough! I really wanted to be a part of this company.
So now I'm a Stylist - how cool is that?! I get to have Stella & Dot Trunk Shows with fun women who love jewelry! It's a great atmosphere, the parties last about an hour and a half, and I get to play dress up and make money at the same time!
My biggest challenge is keeping Kitty out of my jewelry. Next to me, there is no one more excited about my employment opportunity than Kat! If only I could represent Mary Kay on the side, she'd be in heaven!
Check out my very own website - www.amychinn.stelladot.com - I show my top four fabulous picks (my favorite pieces). And you can see all the beautiful jewelry that the Editor in Chief of In Style magazine said was her favorite jewelry line EVER!
Yeah, me too!
Luvs!
I got a job!
I'm so excited to be working at Stella & Dot! It's a new jewelry company with the most fabulous boutique style baubles! My friend, Mike, is the CEO and I see Marci (his wife, my friend) wearing the jewelry all the time - oh, and I've bought a ton already! I love the jewels so much that I just wanted to be a part of the business somehow. Marci suggested that I talk to Mike about buying pieces at a discount, wearing them around in my normal life, and be walking advertisement. Okay fun, but not enough! I really wanted to be a part of this company.
So now I'm a Stylist - how cool is that?! I get to have Stella & Dot Trunk Shows with fun women who love jewelry! It's a great atmosphere, the parties last about an hour and a half, and I get to play dress up and make money at the same time!
My biggest challenge is keeping Kitty out of my jewelry. Next to me, there is no one more excited about my employment opportunity than Kat! If only I could represent Mary Kay on the side, she'd be in heaven!
Check out my very own website - www.amychinn.stelladot.com - I show my top four fabulous picks (my favorite pieces). And you can see all the beautiful jewelry that the Editor in Chief of In Style magazine said was her favorite jewelry line EVER!
Yeah, me too!
Luvs!
Friday, October 17, 2008
Charmed, I'm Sure
Dearest Michael,What a splendid concert! Thank you for the many love songs and friendly banter. You have a beautiful voice (maybe you've heard) and a well um nice demeanor. I hope you understand about my not asking to see you after the show.
All My Love, A.
To my Readers:
"Ask to see him? What?!" You say. Well let me tell you an uneventful story...
As we (group of 4 fab women) were walking - no change that to sauntering through the Convention Center, a gentleman invited us to an after party at a club where Michael was staying. "Will Michael be there?" Beautiful Friend #1 asks. "Yes" says the gentleman, "but he won't be signing autographs or taking pictures."
Okay, whatever. On with the show.
As Michael charmed each of us over the course of the next couple hours, we decided to pay him a visit at the after party. Upon arrival at the hotel we lounged in 4 private armchairs in a dark corner of the lobby. As we were assessing the situation (girls in short skirts and super high heels trolling about) we had a great laugh at our ourselves. No way were we going to this after party!
About that time we met a band guy (the trumpet player, I think), who I must admit was pretty cute. He pulled up a chair and joined our little group and we actually had a really fun time talking together. Then something kinda weird happened - BF#1 told him very clearly that we were all Mormon and all married. He bolted 10 seconds later, claiming the Red Sox were playing. Must have been an important game.
Ah, that makes me giggle.
The only disappointment of the evening is that we couldn't find a Baskin Robins (that's an ice cream place Cousin Helen). See, I told you it was uneventful!
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Happy Birthday, Joe Awe!!
My Favorite Brother
I positively admire this man. He has a plethora of fabulous qualities, so in celebration of his October 15th birthday I'm sharing 15 things I know about him:
I positively admire this man. He has a plethora of fabulous qualities, so in celebration of his October 15th birthday I'm sharing 15 things I know about him:
- He's determined
- He's intelligent
- He loves to read
- He's super friendly
- No matter how tired he is, he is ALWAYS teaching his kids, explaining principles, leading by example
- He's a great athlete
- He's quick to laugh
- He's strong, physically and mentally
- He's courageous
- He's a Marine
- He rides his bike hundreds of miles (!) at a time
- He's gregarious
- He's dedicated
- He loves movies
- He's sensitive
And because I just can't stop, I'm sharing 15 things he's taught me:
- Friendship
- How to push myself
- A love for music and lyrics
- To play football
- How to let someone do things for me
- Don't open the door to strangers
- To combine brownies and ice cream
- How to climb (trees, chicken coops, super huge dog houses...)
- Dating etiquette
- To take a joke
- How to lift weights
- How to be a good partner
- To be brave
- How to shoot a gun
- Loyalty
I love you, Joe!!
Sunday, October 12, 2008
The Important Things
I heard two excellent lessons at church today. Love that.
May May is spending the night with my sister. She's off having a fab evening of cookies and games.
My little boy and I made brownies together. Then enjoyed them with cold milk. Now he's sleeping soundly right next to me in my bed, where he'll stay 'till morning.
No school tomorrow. Thank you Christopher Columbus. Not only do we owe America to him, but a day off as well.
Good Times.
May May is spending the night with my sister. She's off having a fab evening of cookies and games.
My little boy and I made brownies together. Then enjoyed them with cold milk. Now he's sleeping soundly right next to me in my bed, where he'll stay 'till morning.
No school tomorrow. Thank you Christopher Columbus. Not only do we owe America to him, but a day off as well.
Good Times.
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Fall Finds
havelka.com
Yum
Stella & Dot
Cinderella Pumpkins
Irresistible little ghosty that sounds all spooky
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Thursday Three
Three Movies I'd Like Be In:
- Princess Bride - So I can laugh my head off for weeks at a time
- Austin Powers - So I can dress mod for weeks at a time
- Blue Crush - So I can hang out at the beach for weeks at a time
How 'bout you?? :-}
Oh wait, bonus movies - - Chocolate, for obvious reasons and Spanglish cuz the family was eating all the time. Okay, I'll be done. Your turn.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
No Pictures Please!
Why oh why are boys fascinated with all things gross?? I could use a day off from the disgusting! Unfortunately this time it's the toilet. He's bewitched! He's not been enchanted by every commode. Just my commode. I have nothing of worth in this house that is only mine (mine! mine! mine!). But with two little blond mess makers spilling up trouble, I've managed to isolate one itty bitty bathroom for myself. Itty bitty . . . you know the one - under the stairs. It's the size of a cute London phone booth. Dinky.
Okay so great, the kids get the big bathroom. We're all happy. Until someone (Kat) stuffed TP in the big bathroom sink and got it all clogged. Of course the Littles can't wash their hands in that bathroom, so they've come over to mine. Well, my bathroom happens to have a toilet that is extremely picky about its TP to water ratio.
Side note: I'm so sorry that I'm writing about bathrooms, and toilets. Total yucky. I want to run to the shower even now . . .
A couple days ago I heard someone (Baden) repeatedly flushing said toilet. I asked him what he was doing. As he looked up at me I saw eyes bright with plumbing excitement. "I'm watching the toilet paper go away a little bit, and then I flush again and a little more goes away, and then . . ." Extremely pleased, he reaches for the handle. "It's clogged." I say. "We need the plunger." Then I gave him a mini-lecture on plungers being the filthiest thing in the house. Long story short - toilet was fixed.
Next Day - - I spy Baden running down the hall holding the plunger up like the Olympic torch. To myself I think, "He's touching it. Please make him stop. Why is this nasty, ugly, thing fun to him?"
My internal dialogue does nothing to help me stop him. He's too ecstatic. Instead I give him the thumbs up and an encouraging smile. Mommy may have a problem with the yucky, but I've learned that kids don't melt away because of the foul and disgusting. And after he washes his hands it's like it never happened . . .
Yeah . . . never happened . . .
Okay so great, the kids get the big bathroom. We're all happy. Until someone (Kat) stuffed TP in the big bathroom sink and got it all clogged. Of course the Littles can't wash their hands in that bathroom, so they've come over to mine. Well, my bathroom happens to have a toilet that is extremely picky about its TP to water ratio.
Side note: I'm so sorry that I'm writing about bathrooms, and toilets. Total yucky. I want to run to the shower even now . . .
A couple days ago I heard someone (Baden) repeatedly flushing said toilet. I asked him what he was doing. As he looked up at me I saw eyes bright with plumbing excitement. "I'm watching the toilet paper go away a little bit, and then I flush again and a little more goes away, and then . . ." Extremely pleased, he reaches for the handle. "It's clogged." I say. "We need the plunger." Then I gave him a mini-lecture on plungers being the filthiest thing in the house. Long story short - toilet was fixed.
Next Day - - I spy Baden running down the hall holding the plunger up like the Olympic torch. To myself I think, "He's touching it. Please make him stop. Why is this nasty, ugly, thing fun to him?"
My internal dialogue does nothing to help me stop him. He's too ecstatic. Instead I give him the thumbs up and an encouraging smile. Mommy may have a problem with the yucky, but I've learned that kids don't melt away because of the foul and disgusting. And after he washes his hands it's like it never happened . . .
Yeah . . . never happened . . .
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
I've Been Wooed...
romance
love
. . . by the serenity and quiet beauty found in these photographs of Amsterdam. I want to slip away with only a carry-on bag and my true love . . .
free
Monday, October 6, 2008
General Conference
As my church gathered for our semi-annual General Conference both Saturday and Sunday I had the privilege of watching the proceedings in my home. Sitting on the couch in my family room I can laugh and cry without anyone noticing. I can pause my tivo and take better notes (Jen and Kim, professional note takers, I heard that!). I laughed out loud at Elder Wirthlin's story about his daughter and her "date." I wept as I heard Elder Holland's talk and I pondered my own battles and my own Angel.
I love to hear these messages of hope from our church leaders. In the end I think that's what all the talks came down to - hope that we can do better, hope that we can overcome our trials, hope through adversity, hope in prayer, hope in unity, hope for inner strength and self discipline, hope in our testimonies, a hope in Christ.
Speaking of watching Conference at home, I found this quote interesting:
Gordon B. Hinkley
"With the growth of the Church, we likely could never build a hall large enough to accommodate all who would wish to assemble in one place. Nor would accelerating travel costs make possible their coming. The gifts of science have provided a more convenient way. We are confident that as the work of the Lord expands, he will inspire men to develop the means whereby the membership of the Church, wherever they may be, can be counseled in an intimate and personal way by his chosen prophet. Communication is the sinew that binds the Church as one great family. Between those facilities which are now available and those which are on the horizon, we shall be able to converse one with another according to the needs and circumstances of the time."
October 1981 General Conference
How cool is that?! Also kinda fun is this great idea I got from Jill's blog: creativity, musings & such. Every Conference she puts together a basket for the sisters she Visit Teaches. I was inspired and put a little care package together for my sisters as well - -
I included a notebook and pen in their packages, but as I sat down for the opening session I realized I didn't have a notebook of my own. I wished I was better and had a type of spiritual diary that I hear so many talk about.
But I don't.
So I grabbed a large pink spiral notebook that I bought to use for our adoption (oops, is that an official announcement?!) and took notes in there. Now I'm excited, because I'll get to see my notes every time I use it. I even started my To Do list in it. I'll use this notebook until next conference. See the wisdom??
Anyway, thanks for reading. I know my interests aren't always your interests, but I like having you stop by.
Luvs!
I love to hear these messages of hope from our church leaders. In the end I think that's what all the talks came down to - hope that we can do better, hope that we can overcome our trials, hope through adversity, hope in prayer, hope in unity, hope for inner strength and self discipline, hope in our testimonies, a hope in Christ.
Speaking of watching Conference at home, I found this quote interesting:
Gordon B. Hinkley
"With the growth of the Church, we likely could never build a hall large enough to accommodate all who would wish to assemble in one place. Nor would accelerating travel costs make possible their coming. The gifts of science have provided a more convenient way. We are confident that as the work of the Lord expands, he will inspire men to develop the means whereby the membership of the Church, wherever they may be, can be counseled in an intimate and personal way by his chosen prophet. Communication is the sinew that binds the Church as one great family. Between those facilities which are now available and those which are on the horizon, we shall be able to converse one with another according to the needs and circumstances of the time."
October 1981 General Conference
How cool is that?! Also kinda fun is this great idea I got from Jill's blog: creativity, musings & such. Every Conference she puts together a basket for the sisters she Visit Teaches. I was inspired and put a little care package together for my sisters as well - -
I included a notebook and pen in their packages, but as I sat down for the opening session I realized I didn't have a notebook of my own. I wished I was better and had a type of spiritual diary that I hear so many talk about.
But I don't.
So I grabbed a large pink spiral notebook that I bought to use for our adoption (oops, is that an official announcement?!) and took notes in there. Now I'm excited, because I'll get to see my notes every time I use it. I even started my To Do list in it. I'll use this notebook until next conference. See the wisdom??
Anyway, thanks for reading. I know my interests aren't always your interests, but I like having you stop by.
Luvs!
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Sharing -
I was reading Sue's blog, navel gazing at its finest, which is a super fun read that I recommend, when she mentioned a blog that I had never heard of. Apparently it is way popular, so some of ya'll (authentic Texas speak) may know of it, but just in case I'm sharing it here cuz I've just been totally laughing out loud - - http://icanhascheezburger.com/ Give it a couple pages and you'll catch the funny.
Luvs!
Luvs!
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Good Mom Points
"I want to see Hello Kitty animals." -Kat on her way to the zoo.
I always feel like a Good Mom when I take my kids to the zoo. This time I kept Kat home from preschool and we took our own field trip. I think that gives me extra points. I brought a lunch too (more points cuz she's #3 and I don't have a brain anymore). However, it wasn't the healthiest lunch (Lunchable), so minus points. I did buy her the Popsicle of her choice even though it would be messy - and this mommy gets extra points for that cuz I have "Messy OCD." No sunhat, minus. No sunscreen, double minus. If I go on, I'm not sure I will come out ahead.
I'll just remember the wonderful day we had with nice friends. And the beautiful feeling I get when I spend time with the precious little girl the Lord has blessed me with.
*If you would like to earn points of your own (bragging rights, really) you can answer this animal question: Why are flamingos pink?? In a couple days, check back in "comments" to see if you can brag or not.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Yes, Grasshopper
"Trust me, you can drive yourself crazy picking apart what you can't change." -Jason Morgan
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Boys Will Be Boys...
"Can I put this in fire?" -Baden, holding a frozen water bottle.
(Baden staring at cookies in the oven)
Bill: "What are you doing, little man?"
Baden: "Making Cookies."
Bill: "The oven's not on. What temperature do you want it at?"
Baden: "Dudn't matter."
Bill: "How long?"
Baden: "You pick."
*FYI, this is totally how Bill cooks! Trust me, it is. When he wants to bake dinner rolls he turns the oven on, throws them in, and then comes back when the meat is done. They could be burnt or raw, doesn't matter - that's all the time they get. Further proof:
Bill proceeds to set the oven to 350, and then leaves the cookies in (while it preheats). However, Bill doesn't believe in preheating. Okay, so when the oven beeps a few minutes later Baden insists they're done and I need to take them out or they'll "roast too long." I tried telling him the beep was for the preheat, but he was having none of it.
Half baked cookies, I enjoy. Half baked bread, not so much. Half baked Chinn's, love them!
(Baden staring at cookies in the oven)
Bill: "What are you doing, little man?"
Baden: "Making Cookies."
Bill: "The oven's not on. What temperature do you want it at?"
Baden: "Dudn't matter."
Bill: "How long?"
Baden: "You pick."
*FYI, this is totally how Bill cooks! Trust me, it is. When he wants to bake dinner rolls he turns the oven on, throws them in, and then comes back when the meat is done. They could be burnt or raw, doesn't matter - that's all the time they get. Further proof:
Bill proceeds to set the oven to 350, and then leaves the cookies in (while it preheats). However, Bill doesn't believe in preheating. Okay, so when the oven beeps a few minutes later Baden insists they're done and I need to take them out or they'll "roast too long." I tried telling him the beep was for the preheat, but he was having none of it.
Half baked cookies, I enjoy. Half baked bread, not so much. Half baked Chinn's, love them!
Monday, September 29, 2008
Once In A Land Far Far Away...
Thank you Andrea for reminding me about posting more pictures from our time at Peaks Manor. I was just trying to describe to a friend that when we were in England this summer, there was this feeling of being a world away. You can imagine the raised eyebrow I got! I know, I know, we literally were a world away, that's true, but between the castles, the sea side, the open fields where you could just lounge and play, and the Jane Austen-esq manor that we stayed in, sometimes I just felt swept away by it all. I had posted some pictures of Peaks Manor, but with the craziness that comes with the end of summer, forgot to post some really fun ones of the FAMILY at the manor. Hope it brings back fun memories.
On the count of three, kiss the one you love: one, two...
THREE!
Doesn't this make you want to start singing, "Someday my prince will come..."
Okay not so storybook: I mean really how many times did Buzz and Helen have to save Kat from hurling herself out this window??! Yikes!
How picturesque is this?! Sweet Cousin Helen enjoying a quiet moment. Well, until I came along and started taking pictures.
Okay, I'm sorry, I know she's my daughter and all, so what else could I think; but seriously how cute is she??!
Only the Pro's could appreciate this. But Baden is engaged in a little known ping pong relaxation technique that helps before a big game...
Watch out, Lewis!! (Seen here sporting the "Family Sweatshirt")
Again with the bias, but I make no apologies, how cute is he?!?
I think Kat's face says it all as Katherine wows us with her mad card skills. Oh, and those vinegar chips - horrible!
Here are Alex and Alice finally getting to "use" the bounce house that the Little Chinns kept hogging all day!
It's been told that if you love someone, bury them in rocks on the beach.
If it's meant to be, they will be trapped and yours forever. I think that's how the proverb goes...
Or maybe it means that you are just a really fun cousin!
GQ magazine called, and they want their cover model back...
Albert and Kitty share a hug and sweet moment with Cousin Helen in one of those fantastic open fields I was talking about.
Love this mom and daughter picture on the beach.
No children or animals were hurt in the taking of this picture! It really was good fun!
Little Batman enjoying his cookie triumph when generous "Uncle" John saved a suffering Baden from another meal of bread and ketchup. I mean, how could he resist, look at that face?!
John and Biff were determined to be the best badminton players, and put in as many extra hours as they could to sharpening their skills.
You know you are in a really cool place when someone points to a castle and says, "this is where Anne Boleyn grew up." Amazing.
Albert: Hey Daddy, I dare you to jump in.
Chris: Not going to happen.
Kat: I double dog dare you!
Chris: Hmm....double dog dare eh? Throw in 10 quid and I'm in..
On the count of three, kiss the one you love: one, two...
THREE!
Doesn't this make you want to start singing, "Someday my prince will come..."
Okay not so storybook: I mean really how many times did Buzz and Helen have to save Kat from hurling herself out this window??! Yikes!
How picturesque is this?! Sweet Cousin Helen enjoying a quiet moment. Well, until I came along and started taking pictures.
Okay, I'm sorry, I know she's my daughter and all, so what else could I think; but seriously how cute is she??!
Only the Pro's could appreciate this. But Baden is engaged in a little known ping pong relaxation technique that helps before a big game...
Watch out, Lewis!! (Seen here sporting the "Family Sweatshirt")
Again with the bias, but I make no apologies, how cute is he?!?
I think Kat's face says it all as Katherine wows us with her mad card skills. Oh, and those vinegar chips - horrible!
Here are Alex and Alice finally getting to "use" the bounce house that the Little Chinns kept hogging all day!
It's been told that if you love someone, bury them in rocks on the beach.
If it's meant to be, they will be trapped and yours forever. I think that's how the proverb goes...
Or maybe it means that you are just a really fun cousin!
GQ magazine called, and they want their cover model back...
Albert and Kitty share a hug and sweet moment with Cousin Helen in one of those fantastic open fields I was talking about.
Love this mom and daughter picture on the beach.
No children or animals were hurt in the taking of this picture! It really was good fun!
Little Batman enjoying his cookie triumph when generous "Uncle" John saved a suffering Baden from another meal of bread and ketchup. I mean, how could he resist, look at that face?!
John and Biff were determined to be the best badminton players, and put in as many extra hours as they could to sharpening their skills.
You know you are in a really cool place when someone points to a castle and says, "this is where Anne Boleyn grew up." Amazing.
Albert: Hey Daddy, I dare you to jump in.
Chris: Not going to happen.
Kat: I double dog dare you!
Chris: Hmm....double dog dare eh? Throw in 10 quid and I'm in..
The Inseparable Cousins!
No seriously John Harrison (aka Quinton, heehee), relax, I didn't take your Jaffa Cake! (Psst! I think it was Marney!)
I looked for a sign that specified an age limit for the zip line. Upon not seeing one, I took my opportunity!
Me looking somewhat more dignified, with two of my favorite people.
While John seemed shocked and engaged at Marney's tale, Katherine and Alice were a bit more skeptical about her encounter with the Loch Ness Monster.
The Chinns don't mess around when the recipe calls for cheese!!
No seriously John Harrison (aka Quinton, heehee), relax, I didn't take your Jaffa Cake! (Psst! I think it was Marney!)
I looked for a sign that specified an age limit for the zip line. Upon not seeing one, I took my opportunity!
Me looking somewhat more dignified, with two of my favorite people.
While John seemed shocked and engaged at Marney's tale, Katherine and Alice were a bit more skeptical about her encounter with the Loch Ness Monster.
The Chinns don't mess around when the recipe calls for cheese!!
I must say our Dinner Team was the absolute, hands down, most fun! Oh, and by far the easiest clean up - if I do say so myself.
Marney...what to say about never-a-dull-moment Marney?? Well, she absolutely MADE game night - and not just the questions! What a hoot! And thanks girlie's for wrapping those fantastic prizes (of which I'm bitter for not winning).
Let's not forget the King's Important Papers!
Let's not forget the King's Important Papers!
Well I don't have a picture of it, but this is close enough - I just loved sitting around outside with everyone at night. You guys are really fabulous!
Tim and Peter didn't seem convinced when family members were saying that siblings tend to have similar mannerisms.
Tim: "Do you know what they're talking about?"
Peter: "Nope, they're crazy, I don't see it."
I'd be chummy with the guy carrying the big spear fork looking thing too.
Tim and Peter didn't seem convinced when family members were saying that siblings tend to have similar mannerisms.
Tim: "Do you know what they're talking about?"
Peter: "Nope, they're crazy, I don't see it."
I'd be chummy with the guy carrying the big spear fork looking thing too.
Plus - how handsome are these two??
I feel truly blessed to be part of such an amazing family full of fun, interesting and engaging people. Our kids have wonderful memories and talk about the trip often. Thank you again for your warmth and hospitality and we look forward to seeing you again!
I feel truly blessed to be part of such an amazing family full of fun, interesting and engaging people. Our kids have wonderful memories and talk about the trip often. Thank you again for your warmth and hospitality and we look forward to seeing you again!
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