Last week Matt and I went to Idaho to visit my dad and do some skiing. We had a great time skiing despite the five foot visibility caused by a heavy fog.
The return trip home on Sunday turned into a little adventure. Our flight leaving Spokane left an hour late, giving us a ten minute window in Minneapolis. We ran the 3/4 mile to our next gate after a painfully slow taxi to the unloading gate, only to arrive and be told that we could not get on the plane that was still sitting there with the doors open. No amount of pleading seemed to soften their stoic and unsympathetic faces. However, they were willing to give us discount for a hotel for the night and book us on a flight for the next day, not quite what we had in mind. Matt HAD to be to work the next morning at 8 A.M.. We had them check any flight that would get us any closer to Dayton. The best they could do was get us to Chicago. So we arrived in Chicago around midnight and rented a car and began driving the six remaining hours home. After returning the rental and picking up our car, we arrived home at 7 A.M.. Just in time for Matt to shower and get to work. It was a long and frustrating night, we are just glad that we didn't have the kids with us.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Merry Christmas from the Vernon's 2009
For those of you who did not receive our Christmas letter.
Merry Christmas from the Vernon’s
Our 5th year in Ohio has come and almost gone. Brenda and Matt strive diligently to watch lots of late-night sports programs and eat extra garlic to keep the kid count stuck on 4. Unless anyone can convince Brenda otherwise, that’s where it will stay. But, the one’s we got, we love:
Maris, 19 months, has quite the personality. Music almost always sends her into a reflexive dance—shifting weight from one foot to the other and wrapped in a gentle spin. Maris babbles a lot and only says a few intelligible words. It’s her tone that gets her point across—truly she rules the others with her “Quack, quack, quack.” She’s quick to smile and flirt with her eyes with most adults.
Parker, now 3 ½ years old, has gotten through an eventful year. He broke his arm early this year and had to wear a cast for 8 weeks. When taken off at the doctor’s office, he kissed his arm and said, “All Better!” He also saw his binky float away with 3 helium balloons at the “Big-Boy Summer Festival” in our driveway in June. Nolan was the one who cried watching it drift over the tree line. Parker is getting better with potty training; however, he still gets “pee” and “poop” mixed up—despite mom and dad explaining it 3,653 times….and counting.
Nolan, 5, is in his 3rd year of pre-school—this year with a new teacher. We’re thinking about keeping him there the rest of his life—he’s really kicking the other kid’s tails when it comes to identifying colors and shapes. Actually, his September birthday made him just miss the kindergarten cut-off. Perhaps another year in pre-school is beneficial as Nolan was diagnosed this summer with PDD (Pervasive Developmental Disorder)—a grab-bag diagnosis for kids who have autistic tendencies, but not enough to characterize as autistic or Asberger’s. Nolan has been on medicine for months that has helped his overall mood. He truly is a sweet boy. Exploring beyond the fence of our yard, “reading” books, and playing video games are common pastimes. He still loves numbers and letters and anything “Veggie Tales.” His social tact and etiquette has also greatly improved.
Nicole, 6, loves her siblings and is the quintessential oldest sister. She mothers and protects the other siblings, loves to help mom around the house, and is quick to do what is right. Sticking with the theme of tall school teachers, she has a 6-ft tall 1st grade teacher named Ms. Bates (last year was 6-ft 7-inch Mr. Matzen). Yes, 6 feet is the minimum height for Ohio teachers—non-gregarious specimens need not apply. Nicole has also started piano lessons and is enjoying it. She loves cats, homework, and reading “puzzle books” with Daddy once a week.
Brenda, still 30-something, is a gentle blend of Martha Stewart, Norm Abrams, and General Patton. It takes a lot to direct traffic and keep-the-peace in Vernonville. Brenda continues to teach the 12 and 13 year-old young women at church—and really enjoys it. She still hosts a book club every month or two. Projects continue to “fall” below her ever-sweeping scythe: a 3-layered wall by our backyard fire pit complete with stepping stones and drainage pipes, 2 glass-enclosed bookcases getting refinished, and changing bathroom fixtures complete with soldering. At a recent church “service auction,” Brenda’s “helping with a home project” went for top dollar. She has a growing reputation. She can even be hired to close associates for a “special” price—just visit her website or call the toll-free number to set up a consultation.
Matt, 37 (and not ashamed of it), continues to try to maintain sanity despite long days at the office. He enters his 5th year in a four doctor private family practice in Middletown (15 minutes SW of Springboro). He works 4 ½ days per week and every 3rd to 4th weekend. With a partner out much of the year with cancer treatments, the busy workload got busier—but in today’s economy, his mumblings fall on deafer ears. Ironically, Matt works with the 11-yr-old scouts at church. A Scouting dropout himself, Matt does feel somewhat capable of getting the boys advanced to Tenderfoot, 2nd Class and 1st Class Scouts—since that’s about where he left his scouting career. Matt’s the “Safe Auto” scout leader……..minimum coverage to get you passed.
The Vernon’s took a much-needed vacation in August to the beach at Outer Banks, North Carolina. Many members of Brenda’s family shared in the experience of staying a week in a beach front home with direct access to the beach. We had to get there using a 4x4 vehicle…and if Brenda is driving (Matt + sand + stuck x 2 = angry Brenda). The days went by too quickly. Brenda and Matt took a brief trip to Colorado in Oct and did some hiking and a Milwaukee Brewers trip in the summer. We’ll host Matt’s family for Thanksgiving and will go on a brief ski trip in Idaho in December. No National Parks this year for the Vernon’s—stuck on 30 of 59.
The Vernon’s feel blessed this Holiday Season—despite the loss of Brenda’s oldest brother, Justin, in September. His unexpected passing has reminded us of our fragility, but also of the blessings of resurrection and eternity. May you and yours be blessed by our kind and gracious Heavenly Father as we reflect on his perfect Son this Holiday Season.
Merry Christmas from the Vernon’s
Our 5th year in Ohio has come and almost gone. Brenda and Matt strive diligently to watch lots of late-night sports programs and eat extra garlic to keep the kid count stuck on 4. Unless anyone can convince Brenda otherwise, that’s where it will stay. But, the one’s we got, we love:
Maris, 19 months, has quite the personality. Music almost always sends her into a reflexive dance—shifting weight from one foot to the other and wrapped in a gentle spin. Maris babbles a lot and only says a few intelligible words. It’s her tone that gets her point across—truly she rules the others with her “Quack, quack, quack.” She’s quick to smile and flirt with her eyes with most adults.
Parker, now 3 ½ years old, has gotten through an eventful year. He broke his arm early this year and had to wear a cast for 8 weeks. When taken off at the doctor’s office, he kissed his arm and said, “All Better!” He also saw his binky float away with 3 helium balloons at the “Big-Boy Summer Festival” in our driveway in June. Nolan was the one who cried watching it drift over the tree line. Parker is getting better with potty training; however, he still gets “pee” and “poop” mixed up—despite mom and dad explaining it 3,653 times….and counting.
Nolan, 5, is in his 3rd year of pre-school—this year with a new teacher. We’re thinking about keeping him there the rest of his life—he’s really kicking the other kid’s tails when it comes to identifying colors and shapes. Actually, his September birthday made him just miss the kindergarten cut-off. Perhaps another year in pre-school is beneficial as Nolan was diagnosed this summer with PDD (Pervasive Developmental Disorder)—a grab-bag diagnosis for kids who have autistic tendencies, but not enough to characterize as autistic or Asberger’s. Nolan has been on medicine for months that has helped his overall mood. He truly is a sweet boy. Exploring beyond the fence of our yard, “reading” books, and playing video games are common pastimes. He still loves numbers and letters and anything “Veggie Tales.” His social tact and etiquette has also greatly improved.
Nicole, 6, loves her siblings and is the quintessential oldest sister. She mothers and protects the other siblings, loves to help mom around the house, and is quick to do what is right. Sticking with the theme of tall school teachers, she has a 6-ft tall 1st grade teacher named Ms. Bates (last year was 6-ft 7-inch Mr. Matzen). Yes, 6 feet is the minimum height for Ohio teachers—non-gregarious specimens need not apply. Nicole has also started piano lessons and is enjoying it. She loves cats, homework, and reading “puzzle books” with Daddy once a week.
Brenda, still 30-something, is a gentle blend of Martha Stewart, Norm Abrams, and General Patton. It takes a lot to direct traffic and keep-the-peace in Vernonville. Brenda continues to teach the 12 and 13 year-old young women at church—and really enjoys it. She still hosts a book club every month or two. Projects continue to “fall” below her ever-sweeping scythe: a 3-layered wall by our backyard fire pit complete with stepping stones and drainage pipes, 2 glass-enclosed bookcases getting refinished, and changing bathroom fixtures complete with soldering. At a recent church “service auction,” Brenda’s “helping with a home project” went for top dollar. She has a growing reputation. She can even be hired to close associates for a “special” price—just visit her website or call the toll-free number to set up a consultation.
Matt, 37 (and not ashamed of it), continues to try to maintain sanity despite long days at the office. He enters his 5th year in a four doctor private family practice in Middletown (15 minutes SW of Springboro). He works 4 ½ days per week and every 3rd to 4th weekend. With a partner out much of the year with cancer treatments, the busy workload got busier—but in today’s economy, his mumblings fall on deafer ears. Ironically, Matt works with the 11-yr-old scouts at church. A Scouting dropout himself, Matt does feel somewhat capable of getting the boys advanced to Tenderfoot, 2nd Class and 1st Class Scouts—since that’s about where he left his scouting career. Matt’s the “Safe Auto” scout leader……..minimum coverage to get you passed.
The Vernon’s took a much-needed vacation in August to the beach at Outer Banks, North Carolina. Many members of Brenda’s family shared in the experience of staying a week in a beach front home with direct access to the beach. We had to get there using a 4x4 vehicle…and if Brenda is driving (Matt + sand + stuck x 2 = angry Brenda). The days went by too quickly. Brenda and Matt took a brief trip to Colorado in Oct and did some hiking and a Milwaukee Brewers trip in the summer. We’ll host Matt’s family for Thanksgiving and will go on a brief ski trip in Idaho in December. No National Parks this year for the Vernon’s—stuck on 30 of 59.
The Vernon’s feel blessed this Holiday Season—despite the loss of Brenda’s oldest brother, Justin, in September. His unexpected passing has reminded us of our fragility, but also of the blessings of resurrection and eternity. May you and yours be blessed by our kind and gracious Heavenly Father as we reflect on his perfect Son this Holiday Season.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Sometimes Nicole gets lonely sleeping in her room by herself, so we occasionally let her sleep on the floor in the boys room. The other night she wanted to sleep with Maris, so we thought that we would give it a try. They did just fine although I didn't let her sleep there all night because I was afraid Maris might get kicked. But I just loved this picture of them sleeping in the same position.
The Boys Room
I started decorating the boys room about two years ago. Because we don't live near the mountains I wanted to do an outdoors theme. I just finished their quilts which completed the room. Eventually the beds will be up as bunkbeds (when we think that Nolan and Parker won't throw each other off of the top).
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Bookcase
I brought home a bookcase from Matt's grandma's house last fall. I started to refinish it right after Christmas and I am finally done. It took forever to strip it down because of the layers of varnish and all of the detailed trim. Matt commented that this has been my longest project. It is amazing how long things take when you can only work on them for about 10 minutes at a time.
This is what it looked like before.
The finished product. I am very happy with how it turned out. I was pleased to find a nice looking wood under the dark stain. I refinished it with a natural oil rub and polyurethane.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Birthday Week
Last week was a busy birthday week for us. Parker turned 3 and Matt celebated getting another year closer to 40.
For Parker's birthday we spent the afternoon at the pool, where the kids enjoyed splashing around. Later we had cake and ice cream with grandpa and Aunt Rachel.
Saturday I surprised Matt by taking him to Hocking Hills State Park, where we enjoyed a three hour long zipline tour. It was a beautiful day to be 75 feet up in the trees. Now I need to get to work on the zipline that I want to put in our backyard. 
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Freak Hail Storm
Tuesday night we had a hail storm role through the area. It only lasted about five minutes but it managed to topple one of our pine trees onto our roof. Luckily it landed on our chimney and the only casualty appears to be the chimney cap. The tree broke off about ten feet up and has been sitting precariously on our roof for the last two days because the rain has continued. So today when Matt got home from work I told him that we needed to get it down (it was making me nervous with the kids running under it). I actually called a tree company today but they were unable to come take a look at it and I didn't want to wait another day for someone else.
So I ran to Lowes to get some plywood to cover the window that was below the tree. We climbed on the roof and started cutting branches away. We quickly became the evening entertainment as several of our neighbors came out to see what we were up to (I am kind of know for doing crazy things around the house). We got the top of the tree cut off and tied a rope to the remaining tree. We hooked the rope up to Matt's car. He quickly pulled the tree off of the chimney and away from the house. I have to say that it went very smooth. We managed to get it down without causing any additional damage. We just have a little more cleanup to do tomorrow.
Anyone want some firewood?
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Maris Turns One
It is hard to believe that a whole year has passed with Maris in our family. It is wonderful to see her personality start to develop.
This past weekend we were able to celebrate her first birthday with friends and family. She did a great job destroying her ladybug cake. I was glad that we moved her outside for the event because cake was flying everywhere. She ate a little of the frosting, but mostly she just decided to wear it.
She is almost walking, taking four or five steps at a time.
The after picture.
Parker helping with decorating process before the party.
This past weekend we were able to celebrate her first birthday with friends and family. She did a great job destroying her ladybug cake. I was glad that we moved her outside for the event because cake was flying everywhere. She ate a little of the frosting, but mostly she just decided to wear it.
She is almost walking, taking four or five steps at a time.
Pre Cake eating
The after picture.Parker helping with decorating process before the party.Sunday, March 29, 2009
Sad Day
My childhood home is no more.
Yesterday morning my dad and Carol heard noises coming from an upstairs bedroom. Upon investigating they discovered that there were flames coming from the wall near the chimney. They called the fire department and tried a fire extinguisher. The volunteer fire department arrived and was able to get the fire out after it had severely damaged two upstairs bedrooms and did considerable smoke and water damage to the rooms below. Everyone got out safely, thankfully.
Fortunately my dad has a trailer on the same property that he rents out which is currently vacant, so they have somewhere to stay while they cleanup.
Unfortunately the story doesn't end there. This morning they awoke to find that there was another fire (there must have been something smoldering in the wall) and by the time they got to it there was nothing to be done.
This house has a lot of history and memories and it is sad to think that it will no longer be there when I go to visit. The home was built in the 1920's on the farm that my grandfather purchased in the 1950's.
I am just grateful that everyone is safe.
The house two years ago
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Goldie and Con
Yesterday was a big day for the Vernon family. There are now two more hearts beating under the roof of our home. Several months ago I made a deal with Nicole, Nolan and Parker. The deal was that when Nolan and Parker were potty trained that we would get a pet. We discussed what kind of pet they would want and I was very relieved when they settled on a fish. I know, big commitment, but I am not ready to deal with litter boxes, pet hair, or poop in the back yard, I mean the whole point to this deal was for me to not have to change dirty diapers. Well I am happy to say that Nolan is now pretty independent when it comes to going to the bathroom and I have to say this was no small task. Parker is not quite there but we decided to let Nolan and Nicole pick out there fish right now. Parker will be rewarded accordingly when he makes the transition. The fish have been named Goldie and Con (as in convict, it is orange and white striped).
Friday, February 20, 2009
Puzzle
Matt and I enjoy doing puzzles during the winter. Normally we do easy 1000 piece puzzles that we can finish in a day but for Christmas I got Matt a 2000 piece picture of Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany (we visited the castle four years ago). Let me just say that this puzzle kicked our butts!! If you have been wondering why I haven't posted anything for the last several weeks, it is because we have been working on this puzzle. It took us two weeks to finish. I don't think that we will be doing any 2000 piece puzzles anytime soon.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Beautiful Snow
Ohio doesn't get a ton of snow by my standards, but the winter storm that rolled through yesterday and today sure made everything beautiful. I think that we ended up with about 9 inches, unfortunately some of that was in the form of freezing rain which is weighing heavy on some of our trees in the front yard, I am hopeful that they will stand up again when the ice melts.
The kids have had the last two days off school and even Matt's office has been closed, so we have just been hanging out enjoying the snow.
Today several of the neighbors came over and went sledding on the hill in our backyard.
Hopefully the snow will not melt to quickly.
The kids have had the last two days off school and even Matt's office has been closed, so we have just been hanging out enjoying the snow.
Today several of the neighbors came over and went sledding on the hill in our backyard.
Hopefully the snow will not melt to quickly.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Urgent Care Visit Number 2
As if one visit to the urgent care in a week wasn't enough we decided to make a second trip. I got a phone call from Nolan's preschool yesterday telling me that he had fallen and hit his head on the rounded corner of a table. They were sending him home with a Band Aid and thought that we might need to take him in to have stitches. Well sure enough he got home and we took one look at it and knew that it needed stitches. Matt has stitched up Parker before but he was smaller and easier to hold down, we didn't feel like wrestling with Nolan while trying to stitch him up so I took him to the urgent care. Nolan received three stitches and a chance to try out the Papoose Board (I told him that it was like getting a big hug which he seemed okay with).
Nothing like covering our deductible in the first month of the year.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Parker Joins a New Club
Parker has decided to join a new club, a club that most people do not want to be a member of. This club is know as the broken bone club. That's right, little Parker had a fall (mom actually dropped him) on Saturday which resulted in his right wrist being broken.
Matt was off with the eleven year old scouts at the Klondike derby, so I had to call for help from a neighbor and a friend to watch the other kids while I took Parker to the urgent care. They put him in a splint and today we replaced that with a real cast, of course we had to get green to match his frog that he carries everywhere. He will have the cast on for four weeks. He is a tough kid, so hopefully he will heal quickly.
Friday, January 16, 2009
Dress-up Day
Nicole, Nolan and Parker are playing dress-up today. I am sure that someday these pictures will come back to haunt my boys.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Nolan at the Aquarium
Matt and I made a goal this year to spend more one on one time with our kids. So once a month each of us will take one of the kids on a special outing.
Yesterday was my opportunity to take Nolan out and I decided to take him to the Aquarium down in Cincinnati. We have all been there before last spring right before Maris was born. It was very busy that day because they had a new shark exhibit. Normally they don't allow strollers but because I was very pregnant they made an exception. Matt had Parker in a backpack and I pushed Nolan in the stroller, Nicole is always good to stay right with us. After an hour we made it about half way through the Aquarium when Nolan took off. It was the worst possible place because it was a convergence of several areas and there was a huge line waiting for the new exhibit. We got staff involved and after about ten minutes we were able to locate him. Needless to say we decided to leave at that point.
Yesterday I decided to give Nolan another chance. It was the perfect day to go because it was snowing and cold so no one was there, we saw about five other families the whole time. The only problem was that I couldn't get Nolan to stop running. We made it through the entire Aquarium in twenty minutes plus about twenty minutes at the play area half way through. I thought that I didn't like looking at museums, boy does he have me beat. Regardless of the quick speed, we still had a good time. We stopped for dinner at Chick-fil-a and then headed home.
I look forward to more days out with the kids in the future.
A picture from last April's adventure. I forgot to take the camera yesterday.
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