In the Merry Old Land of Oz

A great way to spend yesterday's holiday...

2012-02-15T06:10:00.000-05:00

Nothing like spending a holiday like Valentines Day in bed, with the stomach flu. Yes - pretty romantic. Of course, that also means that "I got nuttin" ... Have a great "day after" Valentine!

I knew you when......

2012-02-14T06:00:00.000-05:00

I thought I would share the following, well written piece of Sci-Fi/Fantasy. I know, for some of you, this isn't your favorite "genre" - and yet for others - it is.

I have to say, I know this writer personally, and she is a pretty amazing woman. A mom of two (7 months and 22 years....), an american ex-pat living in Denmark, this chick has got it going on.

That said....grab a cuppa joe, and settle in for a few moments to enjoy The Drow Among Us.

An update to my Web 3.0 Post Yesterday....

2012-02-13T10:47:00.000-05:00

Amazingly enough.....the FBI says welcome to the Matrix too.

FBI seeks system to monitor social networking sites | Homeland Security News Wire

The Worker of Wood....

2012-02-13T06:00:00.030-05:00

Mr. Oz has been spending a lot of time of late working in his small, yet burgeoning wood shop downstairs. He has been turning all kinds of things - testing out his artistic visions and his artistic skill. I thought I would share a few pieces that he has completed over the past few months. (note that most of these were completed in the past month or so - on his lathe....but a few of them were completed via hand carving).

For a guy who claims he is not that "artistic"...well....you can judge for yourself...

Turned Hand Mirror #1 View (Back)

Turned Hand Mirror #2 View (Front)

Turned Bracelet for a Niece - Purpleheart

Turned Goblet - Purple Heart

Baby Rattle (Turned) out of Purple Heart and Maple

First Turned Wooden Bowl

Small Zebra Wood Box

Small Turned Box

First "Turned" Baby rattle

Magic Wand for the King. (Turned - Note that he first carved a
Magic wand for the Eldest....when the Eldest was 5)

Hand Carved (Mahogany I believe) Baby Rattle - Ball in Cage

Hand Carved Ball in Cage rattle - Maple

Pretty Impressive - could an ETSY store be far behind?

Web 3.0

2012-02-12T13:26:00.003-05:00

A great request for explanation was asked as a comment to my last post by Flying Monkey #3. What is Web 2.0 – What is Web 3.0?

The tech world has placed these designations on the Internet as a way to define the stage at which the internet is currently “operating” or being used. Web 1.0 is often made out to be the point at which the Web became useable for the masses with information stretching far and wide, and pre-dot.com bubble. Web 2.0 is often used to describe the interactive state that the Web became via the advent of trust in online consumers and the move towards a more social environment. Web 3.0 is currently being most often defined as the transition between casual use and permanent use of the web for news, shopping, networking, and the tying of all tech platforms directly to the person (ie: Ipad, Phone, Tablet, Laptop, etc).

Clear as mud, correct? Here is a more simple explanation.

We call it the World Wide Web – and it has officially lived up to its name to this point.

Web 1.0 – The WORLD became aware that there is a new way of finding information. It isn’t/wasn’t always good information, but some of it was, and we began to play in this new digital playground. Digital Millionaires began to rise.

Web 2.0 – The awareness levels across the world as well as the depth of information became WIDE. Wide and FAST. Instantaneous really. You could locate information on pretty much anything you were looking for. From your TV. From your Desktop computer. From your Laptop. From your I-pod. From your I-pad. And you began to trust that information. Where is Santa right now? Go to Norad. A major news event anywhere in the world? You could see it on Twitter, or CNN, or Foxnews, or TMZ. An old friend from High School? Find them on Facebook. Live in the middle of nowhere, but want to partake in Black Friday sales? Log into bestbuy.com right before you put the Thanksgiving turkey in the oven. Going to a movie tonight? Buy the ticket online, and walk right through the packed lobby of the theatre and into the sold out show. Web 2.0 meant WIDE access to a WIDE amount of information on a WIDE variety of tech devices, WIDEly available to the Web 1.0 “World”. The rise of the Millionaires and now Billionaires marched on.

Web 3.0 – The WEB is no longer spun – it is automated – and it knows a lot about you. You are doing all of the things that you were doing in the previous “web” versions, they are simply now all interlinked, and you are now a strand of the giant information WEB. Where is Santa? Check Norad, and when you find out, auto post it to Facebook. Listen to “A/C D/C “Dirty Deeds” on Spotify, and before you even get to the second measure, your friends on FB know what you are listening to. Log into best buy.com, see reviews BY YOUR FRIENDS no less, automatically fed to you by the site-bots, on the very black friday sale item you were going to purchase. “Check into” the movie-theater via your phone as you walk in (via Facebook/FourSquare/Twitter), and automatically get a text message back from the theatre’s corporate office giving you $2 off a popcorn – RIGHT NOW. Shortly before the movie begins, log into your email on the same phone to find that Weight Watchers has sent you an email reminding you that Movie Popcorn is 6 points, and you are over your points for the day. Yes, the information highway has captured knowledge about every aspect of your life. Not only is it interacting WITH you, it is interacting FOR you. You, the person, no longer “own” you – the person. From an Intellectual Property standpoint, everything you have posted, sent, or said online is the Intellectual Property of a few industry giants. Who? See all of the sites I have previously listed. Google. Facebook. Spotify. FourSquare, Google+, CNN, Twitter. The list goes on. All of this information and interconnectivity lives in the "Cloud". (Cloud - a farm of Servers run by an organization to allow for instant access to information to the end users - while not storing that information directly ON the device of the user) Welcome to the WEB. Billionaires get money not by selling products, but by packaging your information and marketing data in an easy to use package and selling it (through the guise of social interaction) to companies. Interesting thing about this information - it changes everytime you log in - so they get to resell it over and over. The first one to be a Trillionaire wins "King Spider" of the web.

Like I said above, the World Wide Web has officially lived up to its name. Or, perhaps Andy Wachowski said it better – Welcome to The Matrix.

A draft breakup letter……with Web 3.0

2012-02-12T11:12:00.004-05:00

Dear Denizens of the cloud/social media Elite (specifically Mr. Zuckerberg and the Facebook Team, and my fine friends at Google);

As much as it pains me to do so, I believe it is time for me and my advertising profile to part ways with your particular piece of the cloud. The coming storm is far too great – a tsunami of my personal information getting ready to be unleashed on my unsuspecting friends. Oh, and their friends too.

No, it isn’t your latest rollout. It is the ever ensuing (forced) “Timeline” roll outs. The heavy integration with Yahoo.com, Spotify, and their ilk gives you complete control of what I view, see and do on the web. You say “No, that is not true”, and yet one cannot opt out of this feature on Facebook, Google, Yahoo, Spotify, and the list goes on.

I recognize that every relationship has its ups and downs. You do things I don’t like. I learn to “deal”. I do things to annoy you. You learn to “deal”.

But every relationship comes with mutual trust, and quite frankly, I have placed far more trust in you than you have earned.

Yes, my “information is already out there”. I am an active participant in Web 2.0. Yet, your push to a sociably cloudy future in what is sure to be dubbed web 3.0 seems to be one that removes users control and ownership from any of their personal lives, aka their personal intellectual property. A veritable cornucopia on display. I cannot and will not allow it. And while I recognize that your services are “free” to the user; it suddenly seems like they come at far too high a cost. My life is not Open Source.

Sincerely,

Momma Oz

The Pirate King

2011-10-18T18:46:00.013-04:00

Arghhhh Mateys. For an hour each night, the King becomes a pirate. It appears that perhaps his left eye doesn't want to do any work, and hands it all off to his right eye.

Most of us are eye-specific dominant, but when one eye decides that it wants to sit back and let somebody else do everything, it messes with perception, reading, and such. And it appears to the King's eye doctor that his left eye is just this sort of couch potato. Hence, the nightly patch to shut off the right eye. Gotta make the brain and the left eye work for it, you know.

Of course, the King is not thrilled; after all, when you cover the eye that is seeing for you, it makes things very difficult! BUT, he was happy to hear that the Doctor prescribed lots of game playing on the computer, game boys, Mr. Oz's phone and such. After all, it gives him the excuse to play games after homework time, dontcha know. Who knew that all of those "timewasters" are actually good "eye-trainers", right? Certainly not ME!

He’s (his) Baaaaaack

2011-10-18T07:58:00.001-04:00

My trepidation is still there - Yet so far, it appears that the gods of Bauer are with the young paduan College Boy, as he took to the ice this past weekend for his College’s first ever hockey games.

Running a short bench (9 skaters and a back up goalie, less than two full lines), everyone expected the team to try really hard – and consider the trying to be a success. The boys were having none of that though.

It seems that the coaching staff conditioned these boys well – almost like a team twice their size! Rather than 9 skaters, they had a team…a true team.

Hence, they struck early and often in their first game – and recorded the College’s first ever hockey WIN! Taking the ice the second night, it sounded (yes, the Oz Hockey Family was listening on the Web) like the skaters were struggling with exhaustion…yet they solidified their first weekend of play as the little team that not only COULD but DID – and held on through an exciting third period to win their second game in school history with a 5-4 victory.

Those gods of Bauer? Smiling on Broke-Back College boy, he ratcheted a goal just into the second period of the first game. He took some big hits. He landed some big hits. He set up camp in front of the net as a Winger. And his back? Well, he reports to his Hockey Mom that it is “all good”.

You can read more about the weekend’s games (AND their short bench) online at the Mason City Globe Gazette or the Albert Lea Tribune. More info about Waldorf Hockey can be found on their Warriors site. And if you love to listen to hockey on the radio…their home games are broadcast online at KZOW.

With great joy, anticipation and yet trepidation

2011-09-27T13:02:00.001-04:00

The College boy returned to his Neuro Doc yesterday for a 6-week post surgery follow up for his second back surgery from the Summer of Hell, 2011 style. (For those of you “not in the know”, he was in an auto accident back in May, dealt with a major ruptured disc, had it operated on, had an immediate re-rupture, and underwent a second operation to fix).

The doc was pleasantly surprised at how well College boy was doing. He released said college boy to go back to “life” as he used to know it….

Of course, College boy had one more question for the doctor.

Can I take the ice and return to Hockey – at the college level (ACHA).

After pondering for a moment, the Neuro said “I don’t see why not…it is something you love…and most of the athletes that I have operated on, hockey players included, return at this point in their recovery”.

College boy struck the largest grin I think I have ever seen him make. He proceeded to dance in the exam room, at the check out counter, in the car….and who knows, he may still be dancing now.

To be honest though, my heart sank a little. Because while I am thrilled that he appears well enough, and while I have always looked forward to him playing this game, I fear his return to the ice – because I fear his return to the hospital with the frightening and overwhelming pain that I witnessed over the summer. Like I said, with great Joy.Anticipation.And yet Trepidation.

Grandparent Interview–with the King

2011-09-24T08:28:00.001-04:00

Yesterday the King had a visitor in his 2nd grade classroom. It was grandparent day at school – and his Grandpa came to watch his program and eat lunch with him.

One of the things they did together was a “Grandparent Interview”. I thought I would share the questions and answers between Grandpa and King.

What do you remember about school?
I lived right across the street from the school. I was always late!

What subject did you like best?
Spelling!

Where did you eat lunch each school day?
At home.

How did you get to school?
Walk to the corner and cross with the crossing guard.

What did you like to play when you were my age?
TAG!

Can you think of anything that has been invented since you were born?
Everything since dirt – Grandpa is 84 years old.

Good times … good times.

The end of Summer….

2011-09-04T17:00:00.001-04:00

The end is upon us – at least the “traditional Labor Day” end of the time known as Summer.

I can’t say that I am happy to see the Summer of 2011 leave; nor can I say that I am all that sad. As it usually does, this past summer seemed to fly by in a haze of activity, and yet much of that activity had no bearing on it being summer.

Rather than recount, word by word, all of the goings on over the past three months – I thought a recap of the Summer of 2011 would be better served in pictures. Of course, this will also save you from a 4000+ word essay – see how nice Mrs. Oz can be? So without further ado (and with much ado about nothing, right?), I bring you…

The Summer of 2011

The good…..

From top left, row by row….
10th anniversary dinner for a Breast Cancer survivor, the King at his favorite park, the College Boy meets his new cousin, the King learns to ride a bike, Great Aunt Oz meets her new great niece, Dad and the King at Fossil Park searching for devonian treasures, the King at bat, the College Boy passing along life lessons to the King, the College boy and King as one of them heads out to college, the King in his new blowup pool, the King still Rides, The King ready for 2nd grade, Swim Lessons for the King, Happy Fourth of July, and “I love a parade” in the small town downtown of our City.

The Bad and Ugly

Of course, with the good comes the bad. As most of you are aware, the College Boy was in an accident back in may. While it was not his fault (he was hit from behind), it still caused a summer that we would not ever like repeated. The accident took this healthy kid, and knocked him down with a L4/L5 rupture in his back (along with a bulging L5/S1), and made for far too many trips to the hospital for him. A cane, two surgeries, one additional admission, two trips to the ER. That…and a forever scarred back.

So there you have it. The Summer of 2011. Leaving this weekend via Labor Day….and like I said before, not sad (nor happy) to see it go. Time marches on.

Who is to blame?

2011-08-07T10:42:00.000-04:00

Who is to blame for the crisis the United States of America finds itself in today? With a credit downgrade, recession looming, QE3 looming, Congress on vacation, rome burning and so on, the average american citizen (like me!) has to think through who is to "blame" in this whole mess the USA finds itself in. Because certainly, someone has to be at fault.

The answer isn't as easy, or as pretty as you would like to think.

It is easy to say "This is Obama's fault". Of course, that is if you are of a conservative leaning. It is also easy to say "It is Bush's fault". Again, that is if you are of a more liberal leaning. It is easy to toss off that this group or that is holding our country "hostage". But again, who is holding the ransom note depends upon your political incliniation.

The crisis we are in today stems from actions taken decades ago; actions taken1,2, 3, 4, and even 5 administrations back. Each successive administration, from President Carter to today, has become far less republicized, and far more politicized. You were either "left" or you were "right". You weren't in agreement with anything anyone from an opposing party presented. Ever. Why? Simply because it wasn't "your party" who proposed it. At least this time around. But if it comes alive under your party - it is all good.

So here we sit today. We currently have a President who speaks of answers, but has none. Who speaks of division in the course of the Country's business. But had a Congress that was same party for two years and was unable to act - even with a legislative branch that supported him. Slow down, supporters of President Obama. This is nothing new. His predecessor had no answers either, and fought the same battle - same party Congress for two years. The difference? Not much. President Bush did act (and quite frequently) on many things. They weren't the best for the Country, in many cases. Strike that - in many many cases - some even could qualify as unconsitutional. So inaction or action - we are still in the hole.

Yet, we can't blame the President, right? He doesn't make law, only approves it. He doesn't write budgets, only approves or vetos them. So back it up. Look at Congress. A Congress (no matter whom is in control) that passes legislation and then reads it (Affordable Health Care Act, Reinvestment and Recovery Act, the current Budget Act). A Congress that has been acting without a budget in place for 830 days (the last budget expired in April, 2009, and was signed into place by the former President Bush). A Congress that has allowed over $7.3 Trillion dollars to pass through its fingers - unbudgeted with no plan. More specifically, a Senate that has allowed this to happen.

The House of Representatives, Democrat controlled for the first two years of our current President's administration, now Republican controlled, is on point for suggesting a budget to the Senate. The Senate, Democrat controlled since the beginning of the administration, then takes said budget - makes its changes, and moves it to the President for signature or veto. No matter who is in control - it hasn't changed - 830 days have passed and we don't have a budget.

Why is this the case, you might ask?

In both Houses (read both PARTIES as well), we have representatives and senators who are afraid to commit to a budget. Rather than say "we are going to spend X, we are going to legislate "y", we are going to put these taxes into place, we are going to remove those taxes from the rolls", they instead choose deliberately not to act. Because action gets messy and might irritate their base. This speaks volumes. Loud and clear it is heard that the USA officially has legislators who choose their own re-election chances over the fate of the Country and its economy.

We had an opportunity this past fall to remove all of the US House of Representatives. Every one. We had an opportunity to move many Senator's out as well. The old timers, and the newbies. We did not. The voting populace removed several - enough to swing the House of Rep's voting base from Democrat to Republican and add a few Republicans to the Senate, but we left many in place who have continued to show exactly who's interests are at heart. Their own.

I know, I know. You "like" your representative and/or Senator - it is all of the other congressional members who are at fault. Your guy or gal has done amazing things - it is the others than are killing this country. I hate to break it to you, they all are the same person, and they don't care about you. Rep. Boehner from Ohio and Rep. Pelosi from California? Opposite sides of the aisle. Same person. "I am gonna get me mine". "We will have to pass it so that we can read it". "We are in control now, you will do it our way". Same.Person.

How can I say this? Take a look at the economy, the recent downgrade by S&P and probable downgrade by Moody's. Take a look at the notes of the downgrade by S&P. Take a look at the song and dance being played out in the morning programs over blamestorming - as to why we are where we are. It is "their" fault that we are in the boat we are in. "Their" is whomever sits across the aisle. "They" are the cause of this.

And that, my friends, gives me the answer as to who is to blame for the crisis, as well as the answer to the question long posed by philosophers and pundits alike. THEY are. Yet, who is "they".

Me. Oh, and you too. And in fact the entire American citizenry qualifies as "they".

Why?

The answer is simple. We stopped caring and paying attention to any viewpoint other than our own and yet we believed in the system of Government that we were taught - rather than what was reality. And the reality is - the dream is failing, the Legislative, Executive and Judicial branches are operating on in-fighting because that is what they see the citizenry doing. Our branches realize that we, ourselves, don't know the answers to the problems that plague our country - and as such, they don't have to know, act, think or do anything that might jeopardize the gravy train that we have allowed them to board. The train that allows PAC's, Lobbyists, and the millionaire's club that IS the US Congress to operate. The train that ensures that you or I - the little people - nevermore will have our interests represented in our Federal Government simply because we can't afford to be a PART of our government - nor do they want us there.

So the blame does not rest with republican "Party of No", nor with the democrat "Party of Bleeding Heart Liberals"

It rests with us. The party of "They", and "they" are getting mad. The question is, what are THEY going to do about it.

Of Beautiful Weekends and a Milestone

2011-06-13T07:43:00.001-04:00

The good Lord and his friend Mother Nature shined their glory down upon the region this past weekend, turning it into a beeeeeyoutiful one. Temps in the 70s, wall to wall sunshine – who could ask for more?

As a Mom, beautiful weekends usually mean lots of outdoor time with the kiddos. The king, in particular, kept us hopping this weekend with the desire to “Come out and playyyyyyy”.

When Sunday dawned so beautifully, Momma Oz and the King wandered outside to play a little catch in the backyard. After about a half hour, Momma decided it was again time to work with the King on his bike riding skills. He had long since mastered the whole training wheel thing, and was ready to try the two wheel variety. We had made an attempt back on his birthday – which was highly unsuccessful – so I thought “why not try again – he isn’t going to get better without working at it”.

Maybe it is the whole “moving on to second grade” thing. Maybe it was the fact that I am still struggling with a summer cold/flu/allergy thing and told him “Mom isn’t going to be able to run along side of you when you ride because it is tearing me up”. Maybe it is just that it was “time”. Because when the King hopped on, he centered himself up, set his pedals…and off he went. Yes there were falls. Yes there were some tears after said falls. Yet there was a shift in the “riding the bike” paradigm, and one young King became – quite quickly – a two wheel bike rider. Within moments.

Come join the King as he heads on out–down the road–on his two-wheel bike. This is probably ride #6 for the day.

And a milestone was passed. And yet another spawn from 4730 began to race down the very sidewalk that his Mom, his Aunts and his Uncles used to race down. Down to the corner. Just past the fire hydrant (for those in the “know”…to the Goldsteins).

And somebody was proud as punch.

One year ago….

2011-06-04T07:44:00.000-04:00

A quick post to mark the one year anniversary of moving back to T-Town. Yup, a whole year. Here is to another one of happiness and health.

Where do they get these folks.....

2011-06-02T08:12:00.000-04:00

Over the past few weeks, I have been reading the headlines and news stories, and I genuinely have to wonder where they dredge up the folks that are making headlines today. Seriously.

Proof that Common Sense has Left
Ronald McDonald and the (zero) nutritional value of McDonalds means that McDonald's must change?

A boy asks a girl to prom via a cute sign on the school - and said boy gets suspended and denied the right to prom?

A young man on a field trip to NYC with his band, realizes the backpack he is using (which is also his camping backpack) contains a field hunting knife - he immediately turns it over to the Chaperone, is immediately expelled from school?

Mom Fakes Botox Story at the request of a media partner (for Cash), and only when faced with losing her child does she come clean.

Hundreds of complaints made to a local child welfare about said botox mom - complaints from Parents across the country. (Really? Like the CW workers did NOT hear about this story incessantly on the news? Parents across the country had to call in and report this "abuse"? Hey people...you don't know your neighbors on either side of you...but you can turn in a woman based on a Good Morning America Story? Yeah...you've done your good deed)

An Iraq war vet killed after a long shift at work by the SWAT Team in a drug raid/sweep of his neighborhood. His crime? Police won't really say; now that the facts emerge, it appears that a deputy miss fired his weapon and SWAT opened fire on the man. 70 shots, 60 hits. Interestingly enough, another neighbor was arrested several blocks away on narcotics charges. Police initial said "He shot at us", then realized that the gun he held by his side (SWAT hadn't identified themselves in the invasion) was unable to be fired - the safety was on. SWAT calls it justified. I call it "wrong place, wrong time"...if wrong place, wrong time is in your own home. Ya come home from work, go to sleep, get awakened to your wife screaming that people all in black are circling your house with guns....and you are the "criminal" when THEIR mistake needs to be covered up. Great.

Sarah Palin won't tell the media whether or not she is running. She won't give them her bus tour schedule. She won't give them any information. She is only posting it on her twitter feed, and her Facebook page. Really? Here in America - my dear media - we call that SUMMER VACATION. Here's a heads up - I won't be releasing OUR itinerary either should we decide to go on vacay this summer. BUT - feel free to follow me around via Twitter and/or Facebook.

The Onion Headlines are being retweeted and facebooked - seems folks believe that they are real. The Onion Reported that the final Harry Potter Movies last two minutes will be made into seven movies - and folks went nutz on Facebook - worried about continuity. That on the heels of The Onion stating that Planned Parenthoot was going to open an AbortionPlex - and thousands (like 50+ thousand) reposted the link talking about "the horror" - and how funding needed to be pulled. Seriously folks. The Onion? To me, this is indicative of the fact that folks will: 1. Believe anything they see on the Net. 2. Don't bother to read completely something (no wonder many are fighting battles in foreclosure, etc as they only read the first 140 characters). 3. Have no idea WHAT a news source is - let alone Sarcasm.

And the list could go on and on..... Yet, if I continued - it would only serve to depress me about the state of the World today. So again I ask...where do they get these folks??

Opening Day

2011-06-02T06:39:00.001-04:00

At last (at least to the King’s way of thinking) – it is baseball opening Day! No rain, fields great, (They missed their first game because of rain), and the little guy was ready to ROCK! And since the boys of Summer are now on the field – it is official – summer is here!

Sadly, Mama Oz missed opening day due to illness – but rumor has it the little dude had a ball – went two for two – and can’t wait till his next game!

Rememberance...

2011-05-29T07:00:00.018-04:00

The passing of the Funeral Procession of SSgt. K. Rodgers,
Howe Indiana (2008)

O beautiful for heroes proved In liberating strife,

To our men, women and animals of the US Military

Who more than self their country loved,
Who gave their time and service to this great Nation

And mercy more than life!
And who understood the cost of war not just to themselves, but to their enemies.

America! America! May God thy gold refine

In the dross of everyday life, politics and all that is the Republic

Till all success be nobleness,
Your was mission assured, your place in history is secured

And ev'ry gain divine!

We are forever blessed by your sacrifice.

On this Memorial Day, we remember those that gave the ultimate sacrifice to this Great Nation. From the Revolutionary War, to the Caves and Sandpits of the Middle East - well done Soldiers...well done.

Dishes.....

2011-05-28T20:46:00.000-04:00

Today is the 9th anniversary of (as my father put it) "when little Jeannie snuck out and left us to do the dishes". Have so many words I could say - but I think I will just leave it with "Miss you Mom, Miss you Lots"

My First Born and his Grandma - August, 1992

Of 90th Birthdays and Relaxing Weekends

2011-05-28T17:45:00.000-04:00

It seems like, on this Memorial Day Weekend, much is getting accomplished, and yet the pace seems to be fairly relaxing! The pace is just as crazy, but......it is also fairly smooth as well!

We have managed to purchase a flat of flowers that I have been looking for, get them into the ground, do some kindle reading, grocery shop, make a baseball practice for the King, hit Grandma Oz's 90th birthday party, make a run through Lowe's just "because", and the list could go on and on. But if I took it "on and on"..well..it would no longer seem as relaxing!!

So enjoy a few pics from today (none from yesterday)....

Cuz I am off to relax.

The Birthday Girl and her eldest Great-Grandson who carries the Oz name.
There are only 3 Oz boys in the Great Grandchild Generation...two belong in the
Land of Oz...and the other is my wonderful Nephew AI.

The Birthday Girl and her Children. The Balloon....is Uncle Ray - who passed.
Yup, Mr. Oz's dad is one of 7

Poppa Oz, Mr. Oz and grandma.

When Cousins/Siblings attack...their Aunt and Uncle. (See Mr. Oz peeking out??)

Mr. Oz thought this sprinkler was neat at Lowes. So
we had to buy it. Sadly, the pump can't always keep up with it...
Not sure how much it will get used. BUT...look at my
Impatiens...starting to take off! YAY!

Summer Music Program…..

2011-05-27T11:51:00.001-04:00

It was final First Grade Music and Art program, and somebody was very excited to share what he had learned this year in the form of dancing, singing, and such. After listening to seven songs including (Clap) I N G O (hence the first pic above), etc., dancing the Alley Cat, and checking out his Frog from art class…his Grandma W and I felt fully “arts and music’d”.

And One King…was VERY.PROUD.

Feels like we had a weekend!

2011-05-23T07:05:00.000-04:00

Finally! It feels like we had a true weekend! Yes, it was extremely busy - but when are weekends NOT busy around the Land of Oz? But that said - Mother Nature removed the Liquid Sunshine for a while, and gave us two pretty glorious days of 80 degree weather. (Truth in journalism makes me say that there was rain..but it was in the evening, after the day was done, so...it didn't affect any plans!)

From the last soccer game for the King, watching the eldest get ready to take a friend to prom, visiting with J, K, T and little I, to going to Cirque Du Soleil's Alegria and working in the garden, the weekend felt more like being able to do the things we wanted to do, vs. the things we had to do. And I have to admit, it was pretty nice!

The Spring Soccer boys at their final game...do you think the King (front row) has had enough soccer pics taken? Look at that photographer's pose - grin.

The Handsome Eldest, ready to pick up his date.

Having fun at "prom". (Note, the eldest didn't get to attend his prom last year, so thought the whole process was pretty interesting)

The King and his cousin "I" visiting the puppy (if being 12 can be considered a puppy) next door. "I" was very intrigued by John the pup, and more than willing to show him off to anyone who asked!

Finally, in a rare appearance, Mrs. Oz herself, next to a set of flowers placed in the front, one of several floral additions to the porch and yard to brighten up the joing. Yes, I garden "formally"...okay, just kidding, I was ready to head out for the Cirque performance, but thought I would try out my new Mother's Day gift's "self-timer" function.

This week brings baseball games into the picture, and ends with the official beginning of Summer via Memorial Day! Here is hoping Mother Nature keeps up the awesome weather - the sunshine did us ALL good!

The Changing of the Seasons

2011-05-18T07:52:00.001-04:00

Although Mother Nature refuses to move towards a less wet spring, the seasons are indeed changing around the Merry Land of Oz.

And of course, they have the appropriate cross-over that I wish mother nature would manage to pull of - but doesn't seem to.

Several weeks ago, the King finished his first year of wrestling. It caused him to miss a soccer game, but had to finish one season to move into the next right? Right! Because his brother was there, the little one decided that this was "his time". He proceeded to march across the brackets - win, win, and off to the finals. The King was up against an opponent he had never met. T'was an opponent who had beaten the King's season long nemesis - "jack". (See, Jack and the King had met in the finals three times, and three times, the King failed to overcome Jack....). Yet "brubby magic" was on the King's side this time....and after riding out three periods - the king took his first ever First Place. Way to end one season King.

Of course, I mentioned Soccer right? Because then the athletic beat marched full on into the season. Except...our old pal Mother Nature doesn't like to give up anything but liquid sunshine. COLD liquid sunshine. As such, we spend time on the sidelines under umbrellas, wind whipping across fields, hoping simply that the game moves quickly. The King? Well, he doesn't care - wet or dry...he is just happy to be out there.

But Seasons march on...and we are beginning to close out the soccer season - in anticipation of the baseball season (Lob Ball/Coach Pitch)Practices began last week - games start next week - and the last soccer game is this Saturday. So Mother Nature - can you take a hint from the King's Athletic Season - CHANGE already - because quite frankly, sitting at a cold, rainy baseball diamond sounds about as appealing to this Wrestling/Soccer/Baseball Mom as an umbrella point in the eye.

Windows Live

2011-05-17T09:23:00.000-04:00

Windows Live Essentials had to do an ol update to my profile (we use it at work), and I noted that they had a blogger interface in Windows Live Writer. So I thought I would “check it out”, to see if it made any kind of sense for me to use. (Okay, more like if it makes it “any easier” to blog…hence more bloggin from the Land of Oz).

Yes, this is pretty much a dummy/test post – but hey, at least it has some actual words other than “Test”.

Dear Mother Nature

2011-05-16T08:09:00.000-04:00

Dear Mother Nature,

Okay, seriously. Can we have some sunshine? I recognize that our locale enjoys quite a few overcast days....but even we are over the records.

When I look at the 10 day forecast (and I have done so for the last month or so!) and 7+ days show rain, I can't help but wonder if you are mad at the area or something.

I simply ask you one simple favor. Bring on some nicer weather. PLEASE??

Love Me.

What a Hero!

2011-05-15T07:34:00.000-04:00

There is a great place in town that does amazing Birthday Parties for Kids. Hero's . From the moment the birthday kiddo arrives, the parents are off the hook - and the adventure begins.

We decided to have the King's birthday party there, after having been to several at the Mouse House of Bad Pizza and Chaos (formerly known as Chucky Cheese). One young King and his friends declared it to be the "Best.Party.Ever". Yeah...this mom kind of agrees.

We handed off the Cake the moment we walked in the door - and from there on out, our Party Hero Caroline took over and was in charge. She moved the kids through inflatables, through games, through activities, through Pizza, Cupcake Decorating, Candles, Presents and the like. What did I have to do? Visit with the adults at the party and take a few snaps. Yup. That was the extent of my work! It ROCKED.

Join the birthday boy for some fun - via pics. And check out the cake. Yup...tis Angry Birds - cuz SOMEBODY is hooked.

Good things Happen on Friday the Thirteenth

2011-05-15T07:10:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday to the King. Who turned the big and lucky 7 on Friday the Thirteenth. With a new watergun, and a new bike, the newly minted seven-year old is ready to take on the world.

The Mother's Day Present that Keeps on Giving

2011-05-15T07:06:00.000-04:00

About a thousand years ago, my big sis who resides over at Casa De Duckfeet wanted to present her Mom with a beautiful Mother's Day surprise. Always being the one who loved the great out-of-doors, off she went ot a local park where she dug up a few wild violets. She brough 'em hom, planted them between our house and the neighbor's house. By few, I mean three or four.

Our mom was "thrilled" and proclaimed the present perfect. Our Dad gave the official "That's Nice" response. A normal "tepid" dad response? No, not really. For what my giving and loving outdoorsy sister had not yet learned, but her father knew, is that wild violets are the gift that keeps on "giving". All over the yard. And he certainly couldn't pull up her newly planted present - that would be just too cruel. So they sat for the year, so they spread for the year.

Thirty five years later (or a thousand), these wild violets are still going strong. Like I said - the gift that keeps on giving.

Could it be?? Spring on the Way?

2011-03-01T08:06:00.001-05:00

Took a quick wander around the exterior of the house on Sunday - trying to make sure that our latest ice storm/snow storm didn't take down any further large branches and such - and was surprised to stumble across four little green shoots coming up out of the ground!

Daffodils! On the way up from their winter sleep!

The harbinger of springy type weather - please hurry Mother Nature, and kick Old Man Winter to the curb!!

Pardon the Interruption

2011-02-22T19:12:00.000-05:00

Pardon the interruption in blogging....it seems that Mother Nature decided to ice coat the trees...and with it, take out our power.

It went out at 2:15 a.m. Monday morning, and came back up this morning 11:00 a.m. ish.

A BIG shout out to Pennsylvania Electric - they were the ones that brought our portion of the neighborhood back online.

Now..back to our regularly scheduled blogging....

Wrasslin....

2011-02-22T19:07:00.001-05:00

The king began his wrestling career on Sunday with his very first tournament. He went 1-3 on the day, with a by for a fifth round, and ended up in fourth place. Thought I would share the following - his final match for the day. Ya just gotta smil when the Biddy Wrestlers hit the mat. They are toooooooo dang cute.

Some, come along and enjoy with me....the King (aka "Wookie") and his final match of the day....which he won 19-13. (The King is in the Red Singlet)

He Keeps Growing......

2011-02-19T14:18:00.001-05:00

Got the king ready for a birthday party this afternoon, and it struck his Grandpa, his Dad, and I how much the little guy is growing. Seriously. He is losing that "littler boy" look, and moving towards kid hood.

Just wanted to share a pic of the handsome feller. Sniff, Sniff....my baby is growing up.

Welcome Home....

2011-02-18T07:53:00.000-05:00

Yesterday morning, along with the massive melt off of the snow (thank you Mother Nature for the 50 and 60 degree temperatures!), the folks of Drive West awoke to yellow ribbons streaming in the wind down the entire street.

It was easy(and nice!) to see that a soldier was on his or her way home.

Later in the day, we learned that it wasn't just one soldier - it was two that lived on the street - and that one (a PFC) was coming home from Iraq for a two week leave this weekend. The second (a Cpt) would be arriving home at the end of his tour in Afghanistan in early March.

The King then realized that the Captain that was coming home is the one that he and his classmates (along with his whole school) sent letters too at Thanksgiving time!

The Yellow Ribbons will stay up through March - until the second hero returns to his base after visiting family here on the Drive.

Although it isn't "much", Grandpa, Mr. Oz, Mrs. Oz and the King have simply one thing to say...

Welcome Home Men....Welcome Home.

The Wrestler.....round Two.....

2011-02-17T07:54:00.001-05:00

And so it begins. Only with the Six Year Old King. Our wrestler version 2.0. 44 lbs of action - ready to hit the mat and "beast somebody". On Sunday, he will get his chance - with his very first tourney (1st year). Many in the tourney have more experience (they have been 1st year wrestling for about 2 months), but I would hazard to say that not too many have an 18 year old big brother and his former team mates who have taught a little wrestler how to "never say die". So at 7:15, on Sunday, we will be off to a local high school for the craziness that is Biddy Wrestling.

I guess it could be "worse". It could be 5:30 a.m. - and it could be a cold hockey rink.

Are you Miserable? How about you?

2011-02-16T17:57:00.000-05:00

It seems that T-town is Movin On Up...on the scale of most miserable Cities in the US. Thanks to Forbes Magazine, T-town claims the 15th spot on the Forbes list of Miserable Cities. Should it shoot for being in the top 10? Nah.

I will admit that it is a pretty dismal city - from the standpoint of weather. Tis mostly always cloudy - not always raining or snowing, etc....but....cloudy. A Lot. And I will admit that the unemployment rate stinks. I attribute that to a lot of "union" mentality here in the City. I beg of you, don't get me wrong - I am not union-negative, but when the mentality hits every aspect of the city - and a true entitlement mentality permeates even the private sector - it can be a pretty unfriendly environment for employers in the area (add that Ohio is in the top 7 with unfriendly business taxes - and you can see why so many Ohio cities are on the list). There is also a dearth of local businesses - unlike our old Kentucky home - which means that chain restaurants and chain stores rule the roost - when there IS a roost - and T town doesn't want to move beyond that.

But I also have to say that the Toledo Art Museum is incredible- and gets Louvre style loans from other museums. The Zoo is a lot of fun and pretty awesome. The arts are well funded and our Orchestra is considered World Class. We are on the "tour stops" of major artists and off Broadway productions. Our Mud Hens are pretty AWESOME - and are one of the oldest teams in Minor League Ball. The Walleye - a hockey team named after a not so fierce fish but whatever - satisfy the locals love of hockey - and while they don't lead the league - they don't bottom feed it either. We don't have a full Pro team here - but the Toledo Rockets seem to do pretty well in football, and we are only an hour from the Red Wings, Lions, and Tigers (and Bears are just 4 hours away for Oz!!) It is a pretty good place to raise kids with the Imaginarium, the arrival of National Circuses and funky "Sesame Street" Live type shows - and children crime is pretty low. There are alternative technologies on the rise here (Solar, Wind) that are taking advantage of the manufacturing workforce, and Chrysler is investing in the area as well as GM - given that we are only 1 hour away from their headquarters. Owens Corning has emerged from bankruptcy and is becoming a force in the area - Dana too, and Owens Illinois has begun hiring in their tech centers signalling a return to more prominence in their industry. Utility rates are high - but I have seen a pretty good track record over the last year of quick returns from Storm Outages, and such.

I don't call it miserable by any means. I have seen miserable - and Toledo is far from it. It isn't Shangrila - but for a lot of folks - it is...well...home. And that means it has a heart....because that is where the heart is....

==============================================================

Oh, here is a bit of an ironic thing to chuckle about, when I went to Forbes.com to copy the url to the story, here was the forced advertisement "quote"... which kind of sums up exactly what is really going on in T-town - interesting huh!

Forbes Thought Of The Day

“ What we call despair is often the painful eagerness of unfed hope. ”

— George Eliot

Sneaking back over.....

2011-02-15T08:05:00.000-05:00

Sneaking back over and wondering if anyone even stops by this old place anymore. Grin. Yeah, I know, months have passed. (But hey, I have released like three old posts that were sitting in draft form...that is something right? Even IF you are learning about what occurred back in November, December, and January!)

Welcome to the day after Valentines! Hope your sweetie did something nice for you! Mine did. He ordered (in advance no less) flowers from Proflowers.com for delivery yesterday! Of course, in the truest Oz Family tradition, the FedEx delivery guy decided, at the distribution station, that he had never heard of my company, so they googled it, picked up an old address where we no longer are, and delivered the flowers to THAT location. But in this case, it truly IS the thought that counts - thanks Sweetie - I will truly enjoy them today...I promise! Oh, and Proflowers.com gave him a full refund...what nice folks - given that Fed Ex was the one that screwed it up!

So...want some great news? Mr. Oz will be heading back to the land of Engineering! He gave his notice last week at his current position (which he truly likes...but which doesn't pay well or provide any benefits). He will be off to work a contract position at Dana Corporation - for at least 6 months. My boss knows an engineering vp over at Dana, and between the two of them was able to wooshzle an interview for a Tech position (reviewing drawings and such). The hope, on the part of Mr. Oz, as well as the VP, is that if it all works out, they will be able to bring him into a position permanently inside the Dana world. Say a prayer or ten - the upside either way is it puts current experience back on his resume!

More great news? The College Boy decided to try out for a play (Chekov's Three Sisters) at college. Turns out..he got the Male Lead (the brother). Weird huh! I did remind him though that Theatre is NOT a degree option (lol!) - but it is a lot of fun. Looks like a trip to Iowa will be in order for early April.

Oh..and more great news? The College Boy got the final diagnosis on his wrist! Extensive tendon damage (overextension), but strengthening vs. surgery is the course of treatment! Can I get a Woot Woot???

I think that catches y'all up! Oh...I am doing fine after battling a fluey thing for a week or so. And so is the King! Now...THAT catches you up!

Until next time gentle readers...and lets hope next time ISN'T in May!

Happy 2011 Everyone! (Playing Catchup)

2011-02-15T07:54:00.001-05:00

(Originally Scheduled for 1/1/2011)

Yup, tis 1/1/2011. What do you have planned for the upcoming year? Us? Well...get the College Boy through his first year of college, finish painting the living room, get Mr. Oz back into Engineering, and have an awesome year! Much to be thankful for as we move into the land of 2011!

The holiday season approacheth.......(Playing Catchup)

2011-02-15T07:53:00.000-05:00

(Originally Scheduled for December 10th, 2010)

The house is decorated. The items are bought to make cookies. Not too much Christmas Shopping is completed...mostly because work has been crazy. And the College Boy will be home soon, much to the delight of his little brother. Oh, and the little brother is BEYOND excited that....

The Holiday season Approacheth! (How goes YOUR holiday prep??)

Haircuts and Gingerbread Houses (Playing catchup)

2011-02-15T07:50:00.000-05:00

(Originally scheduled for 11/13/2010)

Thought I would share a picture of the King's new haircut. According to him, the only place to get your haircut is GREATCLIPS. Why? Cuz mom lets you look through the book and pick out your own.real.haircut. Yup....I have a Divo in the making.

And right next door to the Haircut place...well....was a market that had an extraordinary gingerbread house made completely out of imported German Cookies. The King was MOST impressed.

Just a little "Blast from the Past"

2010-11-09T13:01:00.000-05:00

Even though they grow up. Even though they go off to College. Even though they are "adults" now. Even though time marches on.....

Some things never change.

Alright then College boy.....get healed.

The Skeletons come out at night......

2010-10-31T18:44:00.000-04:00

Happy Halloweeeeeeeeeennnnnn

Yes....you read right.....

2010-10-20T08:44:00.000-04:00

For those of you not on facebook, where word went out over the weekend, yes you read right in the post below. Mr. Oz started his new job on Monday.

Like many in the economy, he is underemployed at this point, but is thrilled to be back to work. He is working with a faith based group, doing much the same as he did at Howe Military - providing care and concern for children in a group home setting. (Unlike HMS, these kids aren't "sent" here by their parents who sometimes seem to have more money than parenting skills).

His position (after this week) is a third shifter position - which of course is never ideal - but it is.what.it.is.

He is still (also?) seeking to return to engineering - but given the economic conditions, the need for a Mech. E. who specializes in capital equipment and machinery isn't necessarily in big demand right now. But we have faith.

Faith that he is exactly where he is supposed to be. Doing exactly what he is supposed to be doing. And that my friends, is a good thing.

Just another manic monday...whoa oh oah....

2010-10-19T09:01:00.001-04:00

Yesterday was a day that definitely had it's own rhythm. A very fast Samba beat to be sure.

Mr. Oz started his new job. The College Boy was home. The King was off school. There was a mall trip to be made for swim goggles and a book. A run to the bank. Brothers to play on the driveway. Opening swim lessons for the king. Dinner to be made. Reading to the dogs for the King (more below). Back to school night time routines to get back on.

And like the energizer bunny....it just kept going, and going, and going......and thankfully....it is over.

Will it go? YESSSSS! Su-WiSH.

Swimmin in the pewl...with my swim instructor. Look! My face is in the water and I am swimmy-ing!

Four weeks ago, the King began a program at the local library called "Reading to the Dogs". It is a great program where therapy dogs are brought into the library and readers can practice their skills reading to a puppy who doesn't care if the reader has to sound a word (or book) out here and there. The puppy simply cares that he/she gets rubs on the tummy and (in the case of the King) a lick or two of dinner off the kiddo's face. (You can find out more about programs like this HERE).

The King has thrived in this program - truly excited (as a beginning reader) to be hanging with the puppies, scarfing personalized bookmarks from the doggies, and practicing his reading skills. He has read to the likes of a Labradoodle, miniature schnauzer, three labs, a golden retriever, and much to his delight - a big ol' irish wolfhound. He knows the dogs by name..they know him by taste (grin), and he is really doing well.

Thought I would share a few pics from last night (where he read to his old pal Charlie, and then a new pal Kody - the retriever).

Readin to Charlie the Therapy Dog

Reading to Kody - the Therapy Dog

And in a final note....the King was listening to the College student and I discuss what therapy dogs did..

out of the back seat and out of the mouth of the King comes.....

"Yeah...and if you are blind, the dog can take you to the glasses store".

Seriously. Neither the College student NOR I could breathe for about 5 minutes - the laughter was tooooooo great.

The Bountiful Harvest season.....

2010-10-19T07:55:00.001-04:00

(Images from around the Land of Oz...)

The summer-flower has run to seed,
And yellow is the woodland bough;
And every leaf of bush and weed
Is tipt with autumn’s pencil now.
-John Clare

The Pneumoniatic One.....

2010-10-19T07:32:00.001-04:00

Got a call on Wednesday from the College Boy telling me "Mommy, I'm sick and feel like Crap". No surprise from the over dramatic one. He takes after his father in that one ("I'm dyyyyyyyyyying"). Okay, I lie. It is totally his Mom, but back to the story.

He calls me on Thursday morning and says "Mom, I really feel like I am dying". Yeah. Drama Much? 'Go to the nurse at health services' I tell him. He tells me that his temp is 102 (and it is 8:00 in the morning). Yeah, definitely get checked out Iowa boy.

He hits the nurse, who makes an appointment for the early afternoon. Doc says "Hmmm....looks like Pneumonia". Nice. I have a college kid who is 650+ miles away from home, and he has pneumonia. Well, at least he has antibiotics, right? Riiiiiight.

I get a call at 8:00 p.m...."I really feel like crap mom, my temp is 102.8, and I can't breath so good". Mom freak out much? Yeah, she does. After consultation with the family nurse (my SIL is an awesome ER Nurse), it is determined that he needs to hit the ER....30 miles away. Like Now.

Sigh.

A shot of steroids, two more prescriptions, and a trip back to the campus ensues....as well as a reservation for a flight home to have mama take care of him (when he is cleared to fly...which is after 24 hours on the steroids and additional antibiotics).

Sooooooo....saturday morning, the College Student is on a flight from Minne to Chicago, and Mama is on the road to pick him up.

Three days later, someone is much better, ready to head back (via detroit to chi to minne....which is wayyyyyyy easier for his Mama), and his little brother has had his fill of Big Bother time.

Just a few pics of the fun that was the Penumoniatic Visit Home.......once somebody was feeling better.

The brothers, enjoying the basketball hoop on the driveway

Why yes.....I DO feel better...thanks for asking...

On the Pneumoniatic One's last day home...enjoying juice bags and brother time
watching Dragon Ball Z Kai

Thankfully, the fates aligned to get him home and better. And thankfully, he is a pretty healthy young man...so he was able to kick this in the butt pretty quickly (with steroids and two courses of antibiotics of course).

Of course...the copay challenge is back on...and we are at 3 at this point. Plus a flight.

Life in a different view.....

2010-10-18T14:21:00.000-04:00

(this post was originally started on 9/28)

Oftentimes, you can go through life, and see the same thing over and over - without really seeing it. It doesn't matter whether you are six, forty-three or eighty-three. You blindly go about your "normal day", with the operative word being blind. And then someone, anyone asks a question, or makes a comment, and all of the sudden the view changes. And what a view it is.

This happened on Saturday, as my father, Uncle and I left my two Aunts and Cousin after lunch. We walked to the top of the Restaurant's parking lot (up a hill) and I turned to my father and asked a simple question. "What Church is that off in the distance?". He followed my gaze and was surprised at what he saw.

Off in the distance, yet dominating the town, was a startling image of the very church of my father's youth. He was surprised at how much the church overshadowed the footprint of the town. How pretty it looked in the distance. But I think, most of all, he was surprised that - for all of his time in his hometown - he had never, ever seen this perspective of "home". A surprise that came with 83 years of memories, yet now, just slightly different - at least in one different view of a church that was so much a defining factor in his earlier life.

Tis the season....

2010-09-11T11:14:00.000-04:00

Soccer season that is. Come along as we join the boys in green...aka the King and his team, as they wander the fields of the SAJRD in their first game o' the season. Yeah..no score is kept...except in everyone's mind, and the green team lost 4-2. BUT...The King scored the first goal...and stopped about 3 (or 4) when he was in the net (allowing the 4th goal).

Let us join the game...already in progress......

A note to my big sis in charge of the Duckfeeters and my favorite girl next door...yeah, I got the ball in the pics. Neener Neener.

This year's team and goals focus on stopping the bunch ball. Sometimes it works....sometimes it doesn't. GO King...get on the ball!

Nice reversal W! Now TURN King! The ball is going to be heading the other way!

Just like his big bother back in highschool...somebody spent some time in the net. GOAL Kick my friends. Goal kick. Oh...and somebody has a pretty decent U8 half field punt outta the box. Could be his bro's influence. Or it could just be that he has a good half-field punt.

All in all, a good start to the Fall Soccer Season.

2010-09-11T08:46:00.003-04:00

For those of us who remember, the only marker we'll ever need is the tick of a clock at the 46th minute of the 8th hour of the 11th day of the 9th Month. Let us be the UNITED States on this day.

It's a FIRST...........

2010-09-04T08:22:00.000-04:00

It's a FIRST....grader that is!

With the advent of the college boy heading off to college, could the next step in the educational process for the King be far behind?

So on Wednesday morning, bright and early, the First Grader popped outta bed and headed off to the land of the elementary school of my youth. And of course, Mama Oz and Papa Oz were there to document the journey!

Like his big brother, the obligatory picture in front of the closet door MUST be taken. And like his big brother, he obliged. (What an obligation...grin)

Somebody was wayyyyyy excited about heading off to his new school. And of being a walker too!

After 7 hours, Papa Oz met him at the corner...and he had completed his first day of first grade. To my sibs...yes the crossing guards are still there. But THEY get to come out into the street.

Rounding the corner and heading for Home. Yeah....first grade is all about Firsts.

To quote Shrek....

2010-08-29T14:01:00.000-04:00

I'm on my way from misery to happiness today (uh-huh, uh-huh, uh-huh, uh-huh)

I'm on my way from misery to happiness today (yea, yea, yea, yea)

I'm on my way to what I want from this world.......

The final moments of his "kid" life....

2010-08-29T13:57:00.000-04:00

In the final moments of the future college student's "life with the (par)rents", a few snaps were taken.

The brothers saying good bye to each other. Hey, it only took me
about 7 pictures to get one where they weren't beating each other, or
trying to make goofy faces. I guess some old habits die hard.

The Cadet and His Grandpa - of course taken in
front of the "door of life"...where many of us
had very same pictures taken

Giving "last hugs" before the parents were "sent on their way"

The roommates and their wrestling coach....
Just before the "rents" hit the road

Whew! Check that one off the list......

2010-08-29T10:55:00.002-04:00

Random things "heard" while checking in the College Freshman -

"It took a long time for some of you to get here"

Yeah....18 years.

"Remember, you are a student first. Student-Athlete. Student-Musician, Student-Thespian. Remember to put the student first. If you do that you will succeed here at Waldorf. If you forget...you will end up back home with your parents".

Nuh-Huh! (Oh crap, did I say that out loud? Great, folks are laughing around me....I must have)

"Now is the time that you leave your parents. They won't be there to watch over you, to make sure you are doing what you are supposed to be doing. That is now your responsibility"

Wrestling coach (who was sitting with us as lunch) points to himself and motions "I will be doing that one boys...".

Busy Busy Busy

2010-08-29T10:55:00.000-04:00

Yes it has been forever since I have posted. Getting one ready for college, job hunting for two, and keeping a five year old entertained has sure kept us busy around here.

More to come soon!

BUY NOW...BUY NOW...AMAZING CLEANER YOU CAN'T LIVE WITHOUT!

2010-08-07T12:53:00.000-04:00

I have found the most amazing cleaner. Seriously. You simply must.have.it.

It can pull 40+ years of hand oil off of a painted banister with one simple, no elbow-grease swipe.

It can knock finger prints off of a wall with little to no effort.

Have baseboards you forgot to take care of for several years? No worries. One quick pass with this cleaner and a rag and you are good to go.

Run out today and buy this miracle cleaner!

But wait! There is more!

Dirt? Gone.
Grime? Gone.
Goo? Gone
Soap Scum on a shower door or tub side? Gone.
Mirrors? Shiny
Windows? Shiny
Fixtures? Shiny and NOT scratched

And most important..... Sweat factor? None.

The only things that this miracle cleaner really can't be used on are fabrics and leathers, and cannot be mixed with Chlorine Bleach.

What is the cost of this miracle cleaner you ask? Around $2.50 a bottle...sometimes even less!! And that bottle can last you foreverrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.

Use it full strength, or diluted....either way, it works.works.WORKS!

Where can you buy it? Practically ANYWHERE. Hardware stores, drug stores, discount stores, even the Dollar Store.

Time to come clean so to speak on the name of this miracle cleaner....

Folks it is good old NH3. Yup, Ammonia.

The same stuff our mothers and grandmothers used for years. The same stuff that the major cleaning solutions manufacturers have been putting in their pricey cleaning supplies. Because folks...sometimes "New and Improved" doesn't quite work as well as the old stuff - no matter if it is lemon fresh.

A Boy and his "Crick"......

2010-07-29T09:09:00.000-04:00

Many years ago, two young brothers set off on their daily adventures only to find that they lived less than a mile from a Creek. With easy access from railroad tracks that ran virtually behind their house, they ventured often to this creek to catch tadpoles, crawdads/crayfish, or in general, just get wet as boys are wont to . Sometimes the creek was a raging running river swollen with rain runoff; sometimes it would only qualify as a crick or a dribble across rocks. Sometimes they could play for hours, sometimes the local constabulary would interrupt their fun causing them to scramble up its banks elusively.

As the years went on, they continued to visit the creek, but as time passed, their visits became less and less. As sports and age caught up to them, the creek only became something to cross on their way between buildings in their High School career. Then the creek became nothing but stories of "remember when you, me and Robbie went and......." and memories to be passed on to the future generation.

A week ago, one young boy and his mother set out on an adventure to a local City park. While the land had been there a while, and had oft been visited in the winter for sledding when the mother was significantly younger, the City park was only authorized after she had moved away.

The young boy quickly scanned for exciting things like Swings, Slides, and playground activities. Disappointed, he looked at his mother and with a saddened look declared the park to probably be "lame". Mom said "Come on, let's see what we can find", and with heavy steps, the boy followed his mother down a hill path. "Look..there is bergamot!", she cried. The boy looked at her with sad eyes that plainly said "whatever".

Then a huge butterfly crossed the meadow in front of him. He began to laugh and chase this large beauty. She followed him for a few steps, he followed her for a few steps.

"Listen little one", said the mother - for she had heard the sound of rushing water, and being familiar with where the path was heading, she knew what was to be found at the bend. He quickly forgot the butterfly as he strained to hear what his mother heard.

"What is that?!" he cried.

"A creek" she responded. He dashed off the path, racing through what his mother knew was a small patch of poison ivy, along with a patch or two of active poison sumac. It was okay though...there was a creek to be explored.

After tossing a few rocks in the water with the boy, she looked down the creek and saw what appeared to be a bridge.

It took coaxing to get this six year old boy away from his perch along the bank, but with prodding and the hope of skipping stones off a bridge, he reluctantly wandered further down the path with his Mom.

And what he found around the next bend was six-year old boy "glorious". A shelter house. A sea wall. A path directly to the river full of the most perfect skipping stones ever.

With glee, he spent an hour with his piggies in the creek. Stones flying everywhere into the water. Laughter bubbling up from both him and his mother. Water. Boy. Rocks. Water. Wonder. It seemed as if time had stopped for him

As he slowly walked away from the creek, he declared it perfect; he declared it "my special creek". Upon the promise of his mother, he knew that he would return soon to "his creek". This was his special place.

A day ago, two brothers set off on their daily adventures, and one of them found out from his younger brother that they lived less than a mile from a Creek. With easy access from a church parking lot, they ventured down to this creek - older being led excitedly by the younger - to skip stones, laugh and play, and just get wet as boys are wont to do. At points the creek was moving swiftly, but really it qualified as a crick - moving lazily across its riverbed rocks. They played for what seemed hours, and no constabulary bothered them...for playing was encouraged in this special spot. Yet still they scrambled up the banks...only to be drawn back to the water. With much laughing, the younger threw rocks and skipped stones with the older - and a whole new generation found the joys of that little creek/crick, as their Uncles had before them.

And that little creek added to the history of these two brothers with future stores of "Remember when you, me Mom and Dad went and...." and added glorious memories to be passed on to the future generation.

Two Brothers, Skipping Stones, and Making Memories

"I did it! A Double Skip!"

No matter the age, a creek simply cannot be denied.

Skipping stones are for sharing....

Is there anything better.....

Let the Neato Factor continue.....

2010-07-28T19:19:00.000-04:00

While we are on "neat stuff".....let's move on to the bathroom remodel occurring in the Land of Oz.

Mr. Oz is doing a great job in expanding a longstanding, very small (and if you believe the grandchildren of RLF "scary") half-bath in the basement. Being the absolutely smart guy that he is....he has called in the pro's when necessary (thanks DF, thanks to my FIL the electrician, thanks to Dana our ace drywaller), but for the most part, Mr. Oz is doing the hard labor. Come along for a little "unfinished tour"

For those familiar with the scary bath, the shower exists almost where the end of the dirty clothes always piled up next to the washer. So you walk in the door, and the shower is to the hard right, and the sink/priv is where it always was.

Here is the Shower Stall that was added (sans doors yet)

Here is a view looking in the Bathroom door..towards the shower

Here is a view in the other direction from the door

Pretty Neato huh! It is only 45 years in the making...as Mom and Dad always wanted to add a shower downstairs, but weren't too sure exactly how to deal with the clothes chute. As DF will tell ya, Mr. Oz had a great idea to just let it drop to the floor into a basket from the ceiling. Problem solved....new bathroom nearing completion.

Yes indeedy I will post pretty neat pics when it is all done!

And finally...on the neato factor.....

The Kings big brubby came home last night!! Home you ask? Well, approximately two weeks ago, this ingenious young man, after looking hard to find a job after our move, made a call to his Pastor and his wife back in Howe, made a call to Kmart back near Howe, got his old job back, and moved (for the summer) back to Howe to build up some money for this fall at college.

And for the first time in two weeks.....he was able to come home to visit. One young king was MORE than excited.....and I snapped this pic this morning as they were spending "brubby" time. Can I get a collective "awwweeee". Yeah. I knew I could.

The Brothers....livin large in Mom and Dad's room
NOTE - the color of the wall. Not lime green/sour apple green. I am just sayin.

Pretty Neat Place to Sit Quietly and just Listen....

2010-07-27T17:27:00.000-04:00

Replica Portiuncula Chapel - A pretty neat place to hear that Still, Small voice

Surrounded by the ruination of a small chapel, St. Francis of Assisi answered a call from above. "Rebuild My Church". He took it literally. He set out to rebuild the chapel - to bring it back alive. During the remodel, he invoked prayer through contemplation and meditation. Upon completion, he heard a call from above come again - "Rebuild My Church".
Seems it wasn't what was physically before St. Francis that he was to rebuild.
It was His Church.
Not a building.
A Communion.
And without another question - St. Francis began the biggest remodelling project of his life.

All from having his ears open enough to hear that still, small voice. In Portiuncula Chapel, Assisi.

I have begun to carve out some personal me-time for me. No, I guess that isn't right. I have begun to carve out time for meditation and contemplation - so it would be better said that "I have begun to carve out some personal knee-time for Him." To do so, I have returned to sitting quietly in a small chapel on the grounds of a local convent. In a Chapel that I found when I was a teen. In a Chapel where I spent time trying to find "myself" - and yet through that process I found somebody else - much much bigger than myself. See, I wanted to know "Who I am" and instead, found out who "I am" really was! Because of that still, small voice that He used to gently move me forward.

So now, in the midst of the moving, remodeling, the job hunting, and on and on, I go to my pretty neat place. Sometimes I argue with Him, sometimes I just talk, most times I just listen. I walk out with a new sense of purpose. A renewed faith that everything is on course - on track - and right with the world. And if I don't...He is pretty adept at making sure I get the message, and understand that not only I am listening to Him....HE is listening to me.

And that is pretty neat.

Yet Another "neat" Thing!

2010-07-27T17:02:00.000-04:00

Skippin down..the cobblestone...havin some fun and feelin groovy!

One of the neat things about moving back "home", is that we have the ability to hit an incredible metro park system.

One Sunday evening, Mr. Oz, King and I wandered out to a local wild and wooded park and took the little one on one of their shorter trails. While the King's preference would have been that we go back to the playground stat, he finally got the picture that trails are to be enjoyed with comfortable companions in some measure of silence. A difficult thing for a six year old who is very talkative (don't know WHERE he gets that), but a lesson that when the world fell away, he did finally understand.

Neat Stuff......

2010-07-23T19:30:00.000-04:00

Wondering if I have any readers ~~still stopping by~~ left since I seem to be blogging on a not so frequent basis!

This post could be ~~very~~ mildly depressing...if I let it. After all, my unemployment (26 weeks) ran out, no employment for either Mr. Oz or me has materialized, the weather has been hot, and the list could go on an on.

But never fear! The Pollyanna-ish Mrs. Oz does not give up so easily. Despair? I SCOFF at despair and say...why even bother trying to trouble me - I have far too much to be grateful for!

So that all being said, I thought I would share random "neat" stuff that has been happening around the new Land of Oz. In pictorial form no less. (Oh, that my grammar teacher would read that sentence....)

Under the "Naturally Neat" Category we find.......

Oh Beautiful Paper-White Rose of Sharon

Oh Beautiful Delicate Pink Rose of Sharon

Oh STRIPED? Paper-white and Delicate Pink Rose of Sharon....

you are a stunningly beautiful mutant of the cross-pollination variety.

My father has several Rose of Sharon bushes. Imagine his surprise this growing season when a stalk of a bush provided flower #3. It is a blend (striped of course) of the paper-white and the pink. It wasn't planted that way, Rose of Sharon's don't grow that way, but there are approximately 5 flowers to date that share this wonderful variegation. Perhaps it is the Lord telling us that some things that don't change, can change? Perhaps it is the Lord telling us that blending the old and new will create a stunningly beautiful family? Whatever the cause, these are a beautiful reminder to stop and smell the Roses (of Sharon!!).

A fence. Not Neat? Guess Again!!

Yes a fence can be a neat thing. My siblings will be excited to learn that just this week, this fence has replaced the Redwood Fence that used to be between our yard and that of the former Schwab family residence. Yup, the yards are open, no more flimsy, ugly, snow fency looking thing. Wiiiiiiiidde Open Spaces.... Pretty Neat Huh!

More neat stuff coming tomorrow!

"Takin it To the Streets"

2010-07-02T09:10:00.000-04:00

Last evening the Ozlanders headed up to their community's downtown to a small, family oriented festival called Takin It To the Streets. It was a car show, as well as a showcase of downtown businesses. A good time was had by all, especially the men of the crowd with all of the beautiful cars. Above you can see teh king with two of his favorites - the Toledo Car....and a Prowler that had flames running down the side. Way awesome from a six year old perspective.

I know..I know.....almost a WHOLE month!!

2010-06-27T17:11:00.000-04:00

Yes, I recognize that it has been (almost) a whole month since I last updated you on the happenings in OzLand. I am sure that you "missed" us...okay, not so much, right?

Of course, there have been lots and lots and lots and quite frankly....LOTS of happenings in Ozland (post the graduation of the cadet/now college boy), and everytime I think to blog..well, I am either too tired, nowhere near a computer, or just not feeling very wordy.

Because of the length of time, I think I can cover more ground by posting random blurbs...perhaps some in order, some out of order. See, I find that if I do bullet point randoms, well then we all catch up faster, and I can move forward much easier.

So let's get moving - in rapid fire succession - and bring y'all up to date!

We arrived safe and sound in Toledo.
We started to clean out rooms, unpack boxes, and the like
We started to prime the downstairs bedroom. Yes Carol P - Sour Apple Green is finally in it's death throes. 35 years later. You may not say "YAY" since YOU picked it out...but Mr. Oz and I are happy campers about it.
We participated in the neighborhood garage sale - and garnered over one hundred and forty bucks. Not bad considering most of the stuff was priced at a buck or under. Yeah. Grandpa F, Mr and Mrs Oz wanted to get rid of the stuff.
The King has a built in best friend next door. She is 5 days younger. She mothers him. He "boy-energies" out on him. They act like they have been married around 45 years. ("King...you HAVE to listen to me. You CAN'T ride the bike without shoes or you will cut your feet". "Stop M...seriously, Stop. Don't tell me what to do anymore." Five minutes later....same conversation.
Mr. Oz has not yet found a job, but has a promising interview tomorrow. Say a prayer. Cross your fingers. Do a happy dance, whatever.
The College Boy turned 18 three days ago. He is still writing thank you notes for grad presents. He will be cornered soon to get them complete. He has broken up with no less than two girls. Working on dating another. For him, life is good. For us? Kinda sad he broke up with the first of the two. She was awesome.
I have been busy cooking lots of different stuff, now that we don't have the mess hall. Mr. Oz has found the glory of chicken and waffles. Grandpa is truly enjoying home cooked meals. I have put a few pounds on Grandpa (and Mr. Oz - much to Mr. Oz's chagrin). Grandpa is happy. He is looking good.
The King and his bestie went to Art Camp last week. Half-days. They had a ball. Oh yeah. There was a performance on Friday. Too cute.

And with that....I will leave you with pictures of the two campers. The theme was africa and art - which explains the face painting. Dancing. Acting, Singing. And a Certificate - which as we all know from Music Man - makes them "Official"

Onward and Upward.....

2010-06-01T08:43:00.001-04:00

(Photo compliments of Wendy Towle at wendytowle.com)

His final moment of being the Cadet....now onward and upward Master College Boy.....you are on your way.....

Yes My Friends...He Did it......

2010-05-31T08:59:00.000-04:00

Shhhhhhhhhh...don't tell anybody...but the cadet did it.

The paralyzing factor

2010-05-25T09:41:00.000-04:00

Surrounded by so very many things to do, bombarded by so many changes, life altering things like graduation of a child, moving, career hunting...I find myself thoroughly paralyzed. I know what needs to be accomplished. I simply just want to stop and stare at a wall.

Am I the only one who gets paralyzed into inaction when overwhelmed? This is a serious question.

Awesome Technology and Changing the Face of Northwest Ohio

2010-05-24T11:21:00.000-04:00

Part of the rust belt - the part where we are currently relocating to, has become a neat little incubator of green technology. On Saturday, the Toledo Blade spotlighted a company that incubated at the University of Toledo and is becoming a force in thin-cell technology for alternative energy. (Green Tech in Toledo).

Xunlight is a pretty neat organization - from Mr. Oz's perspective. (I will tell you that I don't really understand things like photo voltaics, thin cell technology, and the like). He has long been a big proponent of using this technology to power the earth - rather than the fossil fuels and non-renewable resources. There have been many times that he has talked about a practical application where this technology would be "awesome", and getting excited about new developments in the industry (like flexible cells, "solar" paint, and the list goes on). Sadly, from me, he gets blank stares - but when he talks to his engineering pals and his science pals about it...they spend time waxing poetic about "this app" and "that app" and could it be used "here" or "there".

As he put it in an inquiry this morning to the company about an available opportunity with Xunlight.....

The process and development of this flexible, durable, lightweight renewable form of power has absolutely captured my imagination from the engineering and scientific perspective - not only the idea of using natural resources to power our planet - but the real-world practical application of the thin-cell photo voltaic and its ability to provide energy solutions from the most basic application through the most complex.

Yes, you can tell Mr. Oz is pretty passionate about energy source technology - probably from having seen far too much waste of natural resources (and watching the petroleum industry struggle under the weight of new technology vs. cost - which he was doing some design for about 3 years ago).

Spend some time checking out Xunlight's website. This organization is on the right track, and is bringing true light and energy to the rustbelt - and the possibilities seem endless.

Break neck speed....

2010-05-24T10:50:00.000-04:00

With breakneck speed, things are drawing to a close here in Northern Indiana. Here are just a few pics to update ya - these all occurred over the past three days.

The cadet receiving his 12th and final varsity letter - this one in Baseball. Congrats for seeing it all through cadet....

The King at his final soccer game. Why is he crying? The game is over dontcha know. Seriously. That is why.

But he really did play, and play well. Scored six goals, and gathered three assists. Nice season King.

The Cadet pitching the second half of the second game of a double header. Did ya get that? Yeah, confusing. No worries though, he pitched the second half of the first game as well...racking up 10 innings of pitching.

There are still more pictures..but none of them very good. Yesterday morning the Cadet was honored at the first church service for being a senior, and for being such an integral part of the worship life. There was also a Senior Picnic (on Saturday) with one of his favorite teachers, a camp out at his Uncle's saturday night, and the list goes on and on.

Just call us the energizer bunny!! Because with the week ahead...we will just have to keep "going and going and going".

Summer is dawning

2010-05-24T10:42:00.000-04:00

Summer is dawning around the joint...and somebody is verrrrry excited about the whole prospect of sunny days, along with new friends in Ttown to play with. Rockin' the summer look, I bring you......the KING (of looking like a senior citizen on the beach)

STOP the clock...or the countdown begins...your choice...

2010-05-17T12:53:00.001-04:00

I have only made vague references to us moving soon throughout the blog. Nothing substantial, mostly because the kids have been so active of late - and quite frankly it is easier on the eyes to look at kid pics, instead of wordy posts. But now the countdown has begun to our big move, and the clock is ticking as we enter the final two weeks of the Cadet's high school career, so I thought I would finally take a moment to random thought the whole moving process and the like! Yeah - just what you were looking for, right? Nah...it is all good.

Earlier this spring, when my father was ill and facing major changes in his life, we as an extended family (us and my father) made the decision that the Ozlanders would move back to that place which we call home. Yes, as Dorothy would say (with Toto in her basket), there is no place like home, there is no place like home.

As such, at the end of the school year, the Merry Four will be heading over in a permanent move back to the home of Mrs. Oz's youth to provide love and support to her Dad. It is good timing from the standpoint that the Cadet will be graduated and heading off to college in the fall, the King is only in first grade with plenty of time to plant new roots, and Grandpa "Oz" certainly could use the company and the help to bring the homestead back into "glory" so to speak.

Yes there will be challenges. Captain Oz is actively searching out employment in the new area. The economy is not at all "good" in that area - especially in his chosen engineering field, which makes it a special challenge. An 83 year old Grandpa and a six year old are going to have to come to some agreement about the differences in speed of life (watch out King...Grandpa is really good at settling little guys down...by extracting brains through noses!!). Combining two complete households of stuff is always a "Party" - mostly of the garage sale variety! Add new schedules, new schools, new responsibilities. Yes indeed there are challenges.

But that is okay.

There are tremendous upsides as well. Captain Oz will again become Mr. Oz, and he has truly missed the challenges of engineering. Blending the wisdom of age and the exuberance of youth will be good for both the 83 year old and the 6 year old. They both have a lot that they can learn from each other (and the King will become an expert at that brain surgery that his grandpa is so good at). Garage sales get rid of millstones around everyones neck (and when they don't, the Salvation Army does with it's donation truck). Schedules add structure. The new school for the King is just around the corner - and it is one that his Mama is familiar with! As far as the Cadet is concerned - a new school was on the horizon for him already - so that falls into the not.a.big.concern. category. See...upsides.

And that is awesome.

But as we head into the two week countdown, along with a graduation on the horizon (and a grad party, final Senior duties and the like), I am truly wondering how I will get it all accomplished with the aplomb that I demand of myself. Then I remember - this isn't in my hands. Somebody far Greater, and far far Bigger is in control. He knows the challenges, He knows the upsides, and He gets to be the traffic cop in it all. Then I breathe - and remember to simply trust Him - because some days that is all you need to get through.

Sport Filled Saturday...

2010-05-15T20:49:00.000-04:00

Twas a sports filled saturday in the Land of Oz with a soccer game for the King and a double header for the Cadet. That meant lots of time away from the house being the cheering mom.

First up,the King.

Since the last week was totally rain filled, soccer had been on the kibosh for the week, so the boys in orange were glad to get back on the field on a sunny Saturday morning. Although they lost (5-7), the king managed to score 4 goals and assist the fifth. As U-6 soccer draws to a close for the king, I am thinking that he is more than ready to become a little fish in the bigger pond of U-8, and begin to learn positioning. Thankfully, the programs are strong in Ohio...so he should be good to go come Fall season.

Now moving on to the Cadet.

Although his team lost both games of a double header, he fielded well, batted fairly well (I think he went 4-7 or something between the two games) and eve did some time in the Catch position as shown above. This was his first outing as a HS Catcher and he did extraordinarily well, not having an issue tracking the ball whatsoever - calling on his former hockey goalie skills. Of course, his being behind the plate did scramble the infield a little, and as the team they were playing was hitting to second a lot, so he played three innings before heading back to his 2nd base position to solidify that side of the field.

And me? Well, I am one tired Momma Oz....and looking forward to a fairly relaxing Sunday before the final "2-week" crush begins of the moving process, the graduation process and the like.

As promised....

2010-05-14T08:19:00.000-04:00

As promised.....somebody made the move to "two hands" to indicate his birthday yesterday. Yup, the King is officially six!!

After taking cuck-a-cakes to school, he came home to celebrate with the family.

Like most six year olds, he was thrilled to get cards and presents. Yeah. Okay. Like anybody, he was thrilled to get cards and presents.

Then he wanted dinner at Applebees..because they sing the Happy Birthday song you know. Here he is waving at the waiters and waitresses gathering to sing to him.

The waitress made his sundae with extra whipped cream. Nothing better!!!

And when we got home, it was time for the official birthday ~~cake~~ brownie ....replete with his Aunt and Uncle and two cousins.

All in all...six was a great b-day for the King. And with the zeal of youth...he is already planning seven.

The Big Six....

2010-05-13T23:58:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday to the King of Kings....he has his eye now on the big seven...just 364 days away. (sorry....tis late. Have more pics..but must postpone until it isn't midnight.....)

Yes..the king is still around......

2010-05-10T09:01:00.000-04:00

I know, I know. The last few posts have been about the Cadet. Of course...he has not had a ton of face time on the blog of late..so....he is deserving! Now the King and HIS antics? They are usually chronicled well...and with a birthday coming up this week (making him the big SIX).....he will also get his face time later this week. But had to share a few King-ism's from yesterday. See, the King has managed to get the Faison sarcasm...and use it well......

Kingism on Mother's Day (when asked by Mama "Isn't anyone going to say Happy Mother's day?")

Happy to the Mother's Day. There...check it off your list
(Seriously. The Cadet winced, and ducked, thinking that I was going to go all helicopter fists on both of em)

Kingism before he went to bed last night (while changing into his PJ's with mom in the room, who commented to him to pull up his undies...that she didn't need to see his naughty bits)

You mean my geography? ("I guess. Pull up your undies, I don't need to see your geography")
You'll be hearing from my Lawyer.

HUH? Seriously? I think he is fifty going on sixty....and I genuinely DON'T know where he hears this crap.

Last Choir Concert....and he wasn't even in choir...

2010-05-10T08:46:00.001-04:00

I meant to post pics of the Cadet's last choir concert on Friday night, but somehow it management to escape me. That's okay...see, the Cadet isn't even IN the choir.

Not that he wasn't at some point. Seriously. He was there his Frosh and Soph year in HS.

BUT.....over the past two years, he ran out of time, space, and quite frankly, a little desire (Choirsters have to practice at like 6:30 a.m., which qualifies as o'dark thirty to him..the only thing he sings at that hour is praises for his pillow)

But he announced to me on Thursday evening that he had to be at the Auditorium at o'dark thirty - without his pillow - on friday morning to practice for the Spring Choir Concert. HUH!??!??!

Yeah. Seems his health teacher (who is the music master here at HMS) asked him and another individual who are known baritones and who sing it "loud and proud" when they sing (and who aren't half bad at the vocal thing either!) to rejoin the choir for the final concert - as she needed male voices that would be willing to be heard. Seems the males in the choir are a little timid - not looking for singing glory...simply looking for an A in the choir class.

On the hook for the cadet and his loud and proud buddy? Extra credit in health class. And hey....E.C. and get to have some fun on stage? The cadet was in like a singing flynn.

I won't bore ya with all the pics I took - see, I am nice like that. Simply two pics of his last ~~health class~~ Choir concert.

Rockin the Michael Jackson "They Don't Really Care About Us"...on the shoulders of one of his buddies (who is totally prepared for Thriller no less)

Dahkness falls across the land..the midnight hour is close at hand.....I am glad that my camera decided to snag the lighting hat was being used. It was pretty cool.

And so..another health class is in the books.

A busy Sunday Morning

2010-05-09T20:09:00.000-04:00

This morning started off to be a busy one. I had to get the head acolyte out of bed before he missed the first of his two services today. This, after having a late night last night at the Mother's Day Ball. (Late night for both of us!)

But as you can see, he made it...in plenty of time. Above you see him heading down to join the processional for the second service (cadet service). He served this one as a Chalicer and as the head acolyte.

The service was an extremely moving one. The homily was provided by a cadet's mother who has ALS, and who was able to (between her and her husband) truly impart incredible wisdom to parents and kids alike, about letting go, forgiveness, and jumping off a cliff into God's arms, because he is there to catch you.

After the services (and after I dried my tears, I tell you, the homily was veerrrrry moving), we headed out to the parade field to watch the lower school drill team in action. They were most impressive - being led by their Senior Advisor - my very own Cadet. (the one in the hat above). I was more than thrilled that they all did so well.

And of course, after the drill performance, the senior advisor had to give a hug to his favorite Superintendant...who also happens to be the faculty advisor to the Drill Team. Way to go guys.

Military Ball....

2010-05-09T17:51:00.000-04:00

This weekend was the annual Miltary Ball hosted by the Cadet's school. Entitled the Mother's Day ball, it is also the time when the Seniors perform their walk through Iron Guard (the sword arches), and receive their senior blankets indicating they are in their final days as an HMS cadet. Of course, being the ever vigiliant Mama....Mrs. Oz managed to get a few snaps (some thanks to others with my camera).

Here is the Cadet and his date. They both looked absolutely fabulous, and had a wonderful time.

Captain Oz and I.

The Oz couples. What a good looking crew huh1

The senior receiving his blanket from the Superintendant. Congrats Cadet on this achievement.

Twas a fun evening (even if Winter decided to make a reappearance in temps outside).

Another milestone in the books...as we head towards the end of his High School Career.

Batter Up...

2010-05-07T09:25:00.000-04:00

Proud mama warning!!!

This seems to be a great week for the Cadet in relations to sports. Last evening, he took the mound to pitch for his (only) second appearance for the Wildcats (in 4 years!). Having spent the majority of his life in an ice rink, rather than on a diamond, he always wanted to be a pitcher, had practice pitching for all four years, and yesterday, moved off second base to do so when the team found themselves in a hole (14-1) with one pitcher struggling, and the other ineligible to pitch due to counts.

I said to Capt. Oz, well..these guys (the other team) may struggle with the slowness of his speed (having seen him throw last year....with a pretty little off speed arc). But as has been the case with him throughout his four years in high school, he not only thrilled me, he surprised me with his pitching abilities,. His unintentional offspeed pitching from last year turned into good, solid 68-70 mile an hour pitches.

If he had one more year, he could easily become a starting pitcher for them..but in this case....he is definitely added to their rotation "cleanly".

Although we were out-played by the other team, (and they provided a little help with some of his "closer but definitely ball pitches), the Cadet racked 5 strike outs in three innings, allowed no runs (thanks to the other coach who had class and sportsmanship extraordinaire, and didn't allow his guys to run the bases freely on overthrows to the bases, etc).

So I bring you...three weeks before his career ends....the Cadet on the mound.......

Nice Stretch Cadet.......seriously. (this picture was taken on the pitch that gave him his first strikeout)

Here's the Windup!! Sttttttt----eeeeeeeeee-----rike.

And finally, an at bat for the Sparkinator. He ratcheted this ball to the deep outfield, and snagged a double out of it.

Like I said..he is having a great sports week!

This weekend is Mothers Day Weekend here on campus, so lots of various activities (and pic opportunities of course)...including a choir concert (he was asked to rejoin for the final concert..he left choir before his junior year..but they needed some baritones whose voices could carry), a ball/dance, a chapel service, and the list goes on and on......oh..and did I mention the King has a soccer game? Yeah. I will be a runnin around like a mad woman. But truth be told...I am having fun....

Of Decisions and Intentions....

2010-05-04T10:47:00.000-04:00

Senior year in High School is a crazy one. I don't think any of us have forgotten that huh?! What with senior-itis, college decisions, and activities that seem never ceasing, the "party never ends" when it comes to finishing out a high school career.

The Cadet had made a decision earlier this year to attend Manchester College here in Indiana. He liked the campus, enjoyed the college visit, knew that it was "in-state", and close to us. He was good with the decision...but never seemed totally "great" with it, so I slowed the process down somewhat, and little by little did only what I had to - to ensure that he didn't feel the pressure of "well, you wanted it, so now you HAVE to attend it". Yeah, I learned well from my parents who low-keyed my decision oh so long ago.

As I indicated last week, the whole college dynamic was potentially changing for the cadet. He had looked at Waldorf College, had applied and was interested in the school, but time got away from him as far as visiting the school, although he kept in contact with the assistant coaching wrestling staff. When the Wrestling head coach called, his interest was renewed, and he and his father worked out a roadtrip for the weekend to check out the College from the academic side, as well as the wrestling program.

So off they went on a looooooooooong journey to Forest City, IA. I say long because 9 hours is pretty lengthy, but even more so when you do it two times between Sunday and Monday!

Here are a few pics from their trip - I had forgotten to give them a camera, so these are compliments of Capt. Oz's crackberry....

The main administration building/entrance.

The Cadet sitting on the steps at Thorson Hall

After spending Sunday evening chatting with the Coaches, and Monday morning chatting with the department head of education, financial aid, admissions, and again meeting with the coaches, the Cadet declared it to be very much like his current high school experience at Howe as far as class size, and teacher concern for students. To quote him "It feels like home here mom". And to him, for the past 4 years, Howe has been home. (Although this kiddo believes Louisville to be his home - odd for a Toledo boy huh).

So after rounds of meetings, campus tours, teacher discussions, coaching philosophy, chatting with a student, learning that it snows...sometimes A LOT in northern Iowa......

I am pleased to present to you the newest signed-recruit of the Waldorf Wrestling team....the Cadet. He signed a national letter of intent with the athletic staff, and is more than excited about his choice.

Here is the Cadet, with his letter, outside the athletic building with the Head and Assistant Wrestling Coaches.

Congrats on making your final decision Cadet..and on signing your letter of intent.

In solitude.....

2010-04-29T14:54:00.002-04:00

I tell you, some of the best “thinking” times are in the car-rider line, waiting for the King to exit school in the afternoon. There is the sound of birds chipring through open windows, nice cross breezes based on the setup of the school, and for the most part, 45 minutes of uninterrupted time for me to get my thoughts in order. Totally unexpected, yet expected in this hectic season in my life.

So..what is on my mind, as I sit here in the car line? Well…

A Derby party for the M Company boys on Saturday
A college trip by Capt Oz and the Cadet on Sunday to Iowa
The Cadet’s Graduation Party
Our impending move to Toledo
The Career prospects hunting for Capt. Oz
A brother in law who is sick
A father who I worry about healthwise
The Cadet’s baseball game tonight
The King’s soccer pictures tonight
The Upcoming Alumni Weekend
The family budget and bill paying that needs to get done asa there is two nickles to do it
The Senior Class canoe trip I signed on for
The Senior/Eighth Grade party that Capt. Oz and I throw each year
Cleaning out the storage area and packing it up
Cleaning out the Shed and packing it up
Closing out the last month of piano lessons with my niece and nephew and making sure they learn the most they can in the small time I have left…
Rejoining the parish that I was a part of oh’so’many years ago
Finding athletic programs for the King
The Cadet’s college decision

And that was in the last 5 minutes. Like I said…the breezes, the quite, the birds chirping (and the internet access that I get from my phone…..)…a great place to think. It is no wonder I am forgetting the “little things” and need to put ‘em on paper.

Alumni Weekend....and busy weekend ahead....

2010-04-28T10:27:00.001-04:00

This weekend is alumni weekend at the school. It is the point that the the Cadet will be welcomed into the Alumni Association at the school. Except...

The Head Wrestling Coach at Waldorf College contact the Cadet last night and wants him to come to the college this weekend to discuss a letter of intent, and view the programs available at the school.

So instead of being welcomed into the Alumni association...he just might be on the road heading 10 hours away to take a look at the school, its academics, and adding craziness to the mix of college selection.

As for Capt. Oz? He is on duty, and will be welcoming the alumni, along with all of the usual "fun" stuff associated with this crazy, crazy weekend.

Update - Looks like the trip out to Iowa will be on Sunday with a return on Monday. Captain Oz is going to do the parental duties on this one....he "gets it" more than I do when it comes to athletics and the like.

With the start of baseball.....

2010-04-28T09:23:00.000-04:00

As usual, with the start of the baseball season for the Cadet, comes the start of U6 soccer for the King!! Come with me now as we explore his opening day game....

The King on a breakaway goal...making it goal #4 for him (he scored 10 seconds into the game...somebody has gotten the idea of how to play U6 soccer)

Note how well his team appears to be spread out. They all "Get it" as they are getting older!!

Celebratin the Gooooooooaaaaaal. Yeah..the influence of the 17 year old Cadet is strong in this one.

Like I said "the influence of the 17 year old is strong in this one". Most kids in U6 don't think to slide to push the ball forward...this one not only thinks it.....he executes....(Look at the balance, look at the form...and although it may not look like it..he did connect with the ball and slid it forward to a team mate..the angle is weird)

Throw-In.....

Hey sis..how about that....four pics....three with the ball in them, three with other teammates in them...and I couldn't see a dang thing through the display screen on my camera so I was literally pointing and shooting. Need some pointers? Grin!

Busy Weeks.....

2010-04-26T14:59:00.000-04:00

Did you miss me? The weeks have flown by since my "Baseball Season is Underway" post started. I apologize for that...it isn't that I haven't thought about you all, my wonderful readers (that is if you are still out there).

Things have been extremely busy, with several trips over to T town, baseball games, the start of soccer practice for the King, the last month of school beginning - with the Senior counting the moments (and increasing the activity level) accordingly.

Will post more later, but have a few "to do's" still left today to "get done". (Heading back over to T Town tomorrow to hit another Dr. Appt., an am trying to get my Monday and Tuesday chores accomplished!)

Bear with me Mr. Reader (or Mrs. Reader)....even if there is only one of you left....I will continue on my quest to chronicle life in the land of Oz.

Baseball season is underway!

2010-04-14T14:51:00.000-04:00

Baseball season is underway here at the School. Thought I would share two pics from "opening day", although it was two games "later" than it should be, as we had some pretty nasty/wintry weather move through last week.

Here is the cadet....our starting second baseman (no not the pitcher).

It was a nice night to watch some ball...unfortunately, the cadets lost 13-12....(yeah...a pitching nightmare for both pitchers). Of course, this was our first game of the season - and the team we were playing had already racked up 6 games....so I take it as a victory of sorts.

The boys of summer have hit the field....and summer isn't all that far away. Yay!

I "hate" it when they prove me wrong....

2010-04-08T20:44:00.000-04:00

The King is at the age that advertisers love. He watches commercial's carefully, then tries to direct my purchases at the grocery based on the items he sees on t.v.

For the past two weeks, he has tried to convince me to buy Trix Yogurt because "I might be a winner of $5.00 Mom". Sure King. Sure.

This week, the yogurt happened to be on sale at our local Kroger. At $2.44, I had a $1 off coupon, as well as a coupon loaded on my Kroger Plus card for .50 off So for $.94, when he again said "But Mom....I might be a winner of $5.00!!" I thought "what the heck, why not". You would have thought I had granted a 16 year old the ability to drive the family Maserati, for all of the dancing he did in the dairy aisle.

Tonight, he was cruising for a bedtime snack, and remembered the yogurts. Of course, he decided yogurt was exactly what he wanted.

As we opened the Fridge, he again reminded me that "I might win $5.00 Mom". I laughed and asked which flavor he wanted. He picked strawberry banana, and when I pulled the lid off, he said "Did I win, Mom? Did I?".

I scraped the yogurt off the lid.

"You've Won $5.00" read the printing.

Yes King, you won. First try. First cup. I hate it when they prove me wrong.

Why Girls are Eeeeee-villllllee

2010-04-05T23:40:00.000-04:00

For years, my teen has been more of a Goth type kid. Seriously. Into crazy music, black type clothes...little color in his life. In fact, never really into clothes at all. Imagine my surprise at the mall today...when this former "black wearing" kiddo said "I would like to hit Abercrombie, Aeropostale, American Eagle, and Hollister".

Are you serious Cadet????????

Yes....he was Serious....

The color looks good on you cadet....very good....

(And why are Girls evil? Well...his previous wardrobe was pretty inexpensive - and everything went with everything. But girls prefer a different look. And this one is significantly more expensive. Ergo - evil.....)

Easter Visit "Home"

2010-04-05T23:24:00.000-04:00

Spent Easter weekend back home with Captain Oz and the King. Unfortunately, the Cadet had work scheduled for the entire week (Spring Break), and was unable to join us. Here is a quick review in pictures of the weekend.

The King plows Grandma W's field with Grandma.

Having a snack at Grandpa F's. Mmmm...pizza and Rootbeer!

The King and his Easter Basket.

Climbing the Wall before the Hawley Family Easter. The King loved attending a party where there was a massive playground to play on too!!

Capt. Oz and Mrs. Oz. Yeah..ignore my wrinkles. I thought about photoshopping them out..then decided..nahhhh....it makes me look old distinguished!

The houngsters eagerly awaiting the "Ready...Set...Go..." on the Family Easter Egg Hunt

And when released...the King was off like a shot looking for Easter Eggs. Nothing Better!

Uncle Craig brought bubble swords for the kids - as you can tell, the King thinks Uncle Craig and his Gift ROCKS!!!

We had an absolutely wonderful Easter time, and truly enjoyed visiting the family, and spending lots of time with Grandpa F. Hope your Easter was as blessed as ours was.

The King Writes a Note...in Kingly Fashion

2010-04-05T22:53:00.000-04:00

While at his Grandpa's for Easter, the King was busy playing his PSP Game System. He set it down on the couch, and it "disappeared". When asked where his system was, the King couldn't find it. So he snuck back into Grandpa's computer room, snagged a piece of paper, and wrote the following note.

In case you can't read Kindergartner, here is what he wrote:

Ho Nvr fide my gam git 5000. Ad Bob.

Now...in case you can't read the intentions in the writing of Kindergarteners...here is what he wrote:

Who ever finds my game gets $5,000. At (or ask) Bob.

Okay, so why "Bob"? Because he can't spell Grandpa silly! And he knows that Grandpa's name is Bob. He knows that Bob is Bee Oh Bee. So he either lost the game at Bob's, or he wants you to ask Bob for the reward if you find the game. Don't count on the second happening...I found it (in between the cushions)...and no reward...from the King OR Bob.

Yuppers, I am still here!

2010-03-26T07:50:00.001-04:00

Sorry for the silence. Have spent a lot of time over the past week running back and forth between home, and "home". Makes for a little "discombobulating" (did I even use that word correctly??!) week, with little time to blog - let alone an ability to string a series of words together that make any kind of sense. Hopefully I will get back on track over the next few days…but until then…Yuppers…I am still here!

Another Season in the Books

2010-03-26T07:24:00.001-04:00

Last night, the Cadet closed out his High School Wrestling career at the Winter Sports Banquet. He was very excited to receive several awards including Most Improved Wrestler, his 11th Varsity Letter, his Captain award, as well as being the first recipient of the "Connect 4" award - being a 4 year, varsity wrestler. The Connect 4 award is kind of a difficult one to obtain, given that he is in a boarding school where many don't spend their entire 4 years of high school attending. Further, with academic eligibility, and injuries, it can be rough to make it all four years. Yet, the Cadet did.

Sorry, no pictures. I wasn't in attendance (sorry Cadet - wish I could have been there, but I know you understand), yet are pleased as punch and tickled that he is having such success as he closes out his year.

How Inspiring.....

2010-03-13T10:57:00.001-05:00

Inspired by The Girl Next Door and her adventures in cleaning her fridge, while SICK no less, this morning I have tackled a few jobs that I always seem to not want to do because they are a pain overlook.

I know, I know...another Saturday cleaning Mrs. Oz? Yuppers.

So far, I have managed to:

Untangle the spaghetti cords that are tied to various game systems, cable box and tv in the King's room
De-cobweb the King's room
Pull apart my bagless vacuum and rinse out all of the filters - which are now laying out to dry

Not sure I am up to finding the red/green/blue cure for cancer though that is hiding the the refrigerator underneath the bottom shelf like The Girl ND....seriously....I'll just stick to finishing my laundry.

Senior Basketball Game

2010-03-13T10:50:00.000-05:00

Although his sports of choice are wrestling, soccer, hockey and baseball, the Cadet put aside his love for anything BUT roundball, and joined his Class of 2010 Compatriots in the Senior vs. Faculty Basketball game. The Faculty downright schooled the Seniors (despite the youngsters having 6 varsity basketball players on their team). Of course the average height of the Faculty was significantly higher thanks to the Commandant who stands at 6'6"+ (6'-12" if you believe the legends....here he is in grey..you make the call..the cadet is 5.9).

That being said, the kids had a blast, and the Cadet enjoyed himself tremendously.

The Commandant, and the Cadet...who is scoffing at his favorite Math teacher.....who kinda schooled him...but that is a tale for another day.

Hangin on the side of the Key....with his favorite MSG...who failed to tell him that he was standing in the wrong spot....this pic was aken after the ref moved the non-basketball playin kid.....

Post game, I captured the Cadet with one of his best buds ... too bad after they graduate, she will return to China for College...she is a sweetheart, on battalion staff, and they have a great time together.

Funk Masta Skidmark

2010-03-10T09:46:00.000-05:00

On our way to Sams Club and Target on Sunday, I turned around to check on the King and found that he had been replaced by a rapper. My beautiful, sweet, and loving five year old was replaced by....

FUNK MASTA SKIDMARK

Sportin the "I just had my eyes dialated" roll up sunglasses that his Dad left in the car....SpongeBob hat cocked just so...and rockin the "I'm seriously gonna bust yo' face" look....Captain O and I could do nothing....but LAUGH.

Which of course made Funk Masta Skidmark laugh....once again bringing the King back into the car.

Butt Paste....the non-greek (I couldn't resist) solution to Windex.....

2010-03-08T15:38:00.000-05:00

In the mail today, Capt Oz received a newspaper clipping from one of the parents of a Cadet here in the "Company". This mom had written the article (she is a writer)

Here is a link detailing the glories of Dr. Boudreaux's Butt Paste...yes, you heard me.....

BUTT PASTE

If you have never heard of this "miracle cream", that's okay. Most folks who know about it, only are aware of it because they have a baby with diaper rash - or they see it in a baby aisle when they are shopping for a shower gift, and pick it up as a joke to go along with the "Billy Bob Teeth Pacifier".

If you HAVE heard (or used) this cream on a baby's bottom, you know it works. What you may not have known is that it works wonders on things like kitchen burns, contact dermatitis and the like. But we know it - and know it well.

So back to the article...

Did you read it? No? Here is another chance..... I WANT TO READ THE ARTICLE

Did you notice who was speaking in the article to the writer? Yup! None other than Captain Oz himself. He laughed when, after picking some up on the way home, the article writer/cadet mom called him the day after the conversation and said to him..."WOW...you weren't kidding! This stuff is amazing".

Just another day in the land of oz. Butt Paste....on burns....it is a laugh a minute.

NIGHT S.A.T.U.R.D.A.Y. (totally stolen from the Bay City Rollers)

2010-03-06T21:33:00.000-05:00

Back in the "day" (it was a Saturday of course), Saturday brought thoughts of "what to do...who to do it with"...an endless round of exciting possibilities of movies, pizza, sporting events, theater events, just hanging out with friends. Truly, and endless round.

Fast forward 25 years...

Saturday night brings an endless round of possibilities of what to do as well. Perhaps Lime Away the kitchen sink? A few rounds of laundry? Clean up and vacuum the living room? Finish up all of the dishes that "they" let pile up? ("They" are messy...never moi!). Not so exciting, but still possibilities. Oh how the mighty have "fallen"....and oh how clean are my sinks, laundry, and dishes.

But at times, I still wish my Saturday nights were more filled with those exciting possibilities of yesterday - rather than the domestic possibilities of today.

I guess I am officially "old".

Freedom....FREEDOM....Freedom Hall

2010-03-06T18:45:00.000-05:00

Today, the University of Louisville Cardinals took the floor for their last ever game in Freedom Hall. Who could have known when the NCAA Schedules were set that their final "home game" in the arena that had been their home for decades would be against the #1 Ranked team in the nation - Syracuse.

But in an "old" building, the young-stars of Louisville closed out many memory-filled years of basketball in true exciting fashion - coming up with a 10 point victory fueled by emotion. Off they go to their "new arena" downtown (provided it is completed in time!)...and off into the memories of many goes Freedom Hall. (a place where the Cadet has played hockey, watched hockey, where we have seen WWE matchups, Concerts, monster trucks, Motocross, and all kinds of animal displays during fair time).

While the plan is (I believe) to still keep Freedom Hall operating...the lure of new and improved was simply too great for the University of Louisville. Or perhaps, like most other NCAA teams, the lure of bigger and better (and more numerous) corporate boxes and sponsorships was too strong to stay....but as Bob Hope used to sing..."Thanks for the Memories" ....thanks for the memories.

The Sikorsy is landing......

2010-03-05T13:38:00.002-05:00

Always late to the banquet, I heard a term recently that I finally had to look up. Helicopter Parenting. Parents who completely hover over their Princes and Princesses to ensure that absolutely no harm - real or perceived - ever mars a moment of their child's day, emotion or life.

These parents praise every moment of their child's life, can never believe that their child could be anything other than "outstanding" in every way, provide every educational opportunity to their child that they can...starting with language instruction at 2 and 3, schedule every moment of their child's day, refuse to allow the child to take any risk - keeping the child tied to them every moment through actual presence or multiple cell phones, and on and on.

I know this parent...they don't just drop off their child at a sports practice, they lobby the coach for better team placement and the like, and are in his or her ear constantly to make sure their child is #1. They argue with the referees. If a child is upset about ANYTHING, somebody has to pay for "rocking Johnny's little world". That somebody is typically a Coach, Administrator, Teacher, or "anyone" other than Johnny himself. Because Johnny absolutely cannot be culpable for anything. Even minor disciplinary issues become battles with school administrations because of the scarring effects on their child and "his/her future".

These are parents who write their kids college essays. Enter into negotiations with their child's employer for salary and benefits. Argue with teachers because Susie got a bad grade. Sue SAT prep sites for not getting their child a perfect score on standardized tests. Forge letters of recommendation for private schools and colleges.

These are parents who hold outrageous "graduation" parties for Kindergarten, sixth grade, eighth grade, any grade, every grade. They want proms for Kindergarteners. They don't want artwork hung in hallways - that is unless their Johnny is a "gifted" artist. If he is not...no one else can be. Their child is the ONLY concern that they have, therefore should be the only concern that anyone who comes in contact with their child should have. Even at the expense of other children. (Cheerleader Mom who hires a "hit" on another cheerleader who is considered "better" ring a bell anyone??)

The children of helicopter parents are pushed to perfection, cannot handle criticism of any form (and they don't have to...their parent will step in and get the person removed from any authority over their little Prince so they don't have to hear it), have little sense of responsibility, and are as fragile as Czech Crystal - just waiting for the slightest form of emotional temperature change or barometric failure to shatter. And shatter they do. Whether it be in Elementary School, High School, College, or in the Workforce.

In fact, for all that is handed to the Prince's and Princesses, they are woefully prepared to handle the "real world". At all. That is unless the hovering mom or dad steps in and fights their battles - all of them - for the man/woman-child. Because to a helicopter-parented child....life comes with a goodie bag at every turn.

I'll admit it here...we have done parenting by helicopter. More with the cadet than with the King. We stepped in when we probably shouldn't have in several cases, and in that, we have created a monster moment or two when the Cadet was disappointed or upset about things. He can be a royal, entitled, disrespectful and angry pain because of our past helicoptering. And for that I take my fair share of blame (read a BIG ol' share of blame).

Yet at the start of this year, upon the realization that we were getting ready to spin him out into the world, we put the air brake on, and began to land the hovering Sikorsky. The Cadet has faced many challenges this year without us "helping him through". Disagreements with a teacher? It is up to him to fix it. Bad grading period? No, it isn't the teacher's fault, it is your problem, and you need to figure it out. Losses and fit throwing at wrestling? Mom isn't sticking around to watch you be an idiot, have fun with that. College applications? Get working on them buddy...or you won't have any where to go next year. How would I know what you want to be when you grow up? It is your adulthood you are talking about, not mine.

The Sikorsky isn't completely on the ground - but he is facing a ton more challenges on his own now - and struggling to find out what will make him successful. We have "done what we can, what we know" and the controls are now in his hands. Even if I didn't know what we were doing was "helicoptering". (Of course, I recognized what we were creating..which is why the King is parented a little differently, facing trouble as it occurs, disappointment as it occurs, and far more "unstructured time" than the Cadet ever had).

But because of my study of this phenomena known as Helicopter Parenting (and as God is my witness), I will get that craft landed - definitely attempting to stay out of the airspace of my kids. For their own good, and mine, from this point forward I will just simply try to guide parent them from the ground.

Thanks to Dr. Phil..and the Motivation of big bothers.....

2010-03-03T14:10:00.000-05:00

Thanks to the motivation of Dr. Phil and the love shown by my big bother in calling me PF, the health quest that I am on to drop some weight and get a little more heart healthy is working. Okay, really...thanks to my motivation, calorie counting and such....

At this point, I am down 12 lbs...which in the grand scheme of things doesn't seem like a lot..but in reality is over 25% of my total goal. Rockin!! Of course, now I am heading into the phases of weight loss that will "slow down", but that is okay. Having learned back when I turned 30, slow and stead wins the race. Yes, there is still just under 75% to go...but I ain't gonna sugar coat it, because...yeah RF, I would eat that too!

East of the Sun....and West of the Moon

2010-02-23T09:43:00.000-05:00

Over the weekend, I fell behind on my housework, to the point where it almost seems overwhelming. The problem with a small apartment like we have, is that a couple of trips through a room by the boys (all of them) means the place is quickly put into disarray. That is, unless I spot clean about 4 times a day.

Yes, I know it is a monster that I have created - they know where their coats go...NOT on the dining room chairs, but in the closet. Yet they walk past the closet to throw them down on the dining room chairs - along with tossing everything else that they might have been carrying onto the dining room table (that is my clutter spot). Then miraculously (four times a day) these things disappear to their rightful home. (Only to then hear "Where is my coat?" Umm..in the closet....where I put it four times a day maybe??)

But, as I often do, I digress.

This morning, my plan was to tackle the living room (and the seven coats - grin), along with the kitchen. Both have made it into the "yuck" category. But I knew I needed some motivation. So I went to an old "fall back" to get me moving - the same one that my Mom used to use around the house.

No, I didn't demand that the kiddos and Capt Oz put their things away (although that was always a good fall back of Mom's!)....I popped some Big Band music onto the player and off I go.

Right now the melodious strains of Frank Sinatra with the Tommy Dorsey Band are wafting through the house - keeping beat with the dishwasher that is now running.

And somewhere, East of the Sun and West of the Moon.....I will build a house so lovely, just like my Mom used to....and get the coats put away in the process.

Old Guard Dinner

2010-02-22T21:12:00.001-05:00

You might remember that two years ago, Captain Oz was inducted into Old Guard - an honor reserved for those folks who have been around at least four years at the School. This being the Cadet's senior year..and him having started as a freshman....

That makes him the one of the newest members of the Old Guard here at HMS. So here is my handsome Cadet, Then him with his Old Guard Father...and Finally...the Old Guard Crew of Current Cadets here at HMS. See...it was just like you were there with us.

The Chuck of Cheese

2010-02-22T21:01:00.000-05:00

On Saturday, the five year old King made his very first (and looooooooooong) awaited venture into Chuck E Cheese for his cousin's 7th birthday party in Toledo.

Yes, we parents know that the place is evil. That it is a bastion of kids run amok, pizza that would taste better if they just made it out of the cardboard box, outrageous lights and music, creepy animals dancing and turning their heads, and a frustratingly long ticket redemption counter.

But Kids like the King? This is mecca. This is heaven. This is (sniff sniff) a place they would like to call home.

The King declared it a hit....and wants his sixth birthday party there. Fat chance King. FAT chance.
Note the look of bliss on his face....with proof-positive that Mom and Dad survived a trip to the ticket counter...crappy plastic mic and all!

Is there anything better......

2010-02-22T20:48:00.000-05:00

Than hearing your school announced on the radio for a two hour delay? The Cadet and the King think it is awesome, and were all smiles this morning when made aware of such a "treat". That was until the King heard word of a conversion to school cancellation...and the cadet still had only the delay. Yeah.

Then the power balance shifts in the Merry old land of oz.....

one kid laughing and dancing around singing "Snow Day...Snow Day....Snow Day......"

and the other one saying......."SHUT UP KING. I HATE YOU". (But not really - he did have a smile when he said it)

Time Off...

2010-02-19T07:34:00.000-05:00

Captain Oz and the boyz of M company are heading into a mid-winter break - giving Captain Oz two days off (nicely placed on his regular days off). That doesn't mean I get a day off though, but that is okay. T'will be nice to have him, and the Cadet around for a couple of days.