We were hurrying out the door to get to Andrew's soccer practise at 4.15 today. Had everything ready so that after practise we could go straight to swimming at 5.30 and maybe have a few minutes for the kids to swim before hand. Get everyone buckled in the car with only a few bursts of yelling about this and that... Not even sure what it was about. Put the key in the ignition and whoop whoop click. The battery is dead AGAIN!!!!! What crappy luck. So less than a week after joining NMRA and having the car jumped the battery is dead again. I know it worked on Monday because I drove the car and got it washed. I didn't use the lights (OK I did, but I am certain I turned them off and confirmed that again by looking at the headlight switch which was definitely off). The radio was even turned off.
So, had to call Liz Barrett and have her pick up Andrew for practise. Then had to call Jim and have him be home in time to take the kids to swimming. On the bright side this is the 2nd week in a row he has been home in time to take them! Have to have him borrow a trickle charger from a co-worker. Then call the car dealer and let them have it because of all the car problems we have had with this. If it wasn't black in color I would almost think it was a lemon.
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Happy 70th Birthday Grandpa Bill
We just wanted to wish Grandpa Bill a very HAPPY 70th Birthday from all of us in the land down under!!!
Monday, July 30, 2007
She IS the Jelly Belly Girl
Ever since Emmalee brought in Jelly Bellies to school last week as treats from the US, she has been like the Pied Piper of Northbridge. Evidently she still had some in her backpack and other children knew it. So, they would follow her after school to see if they could talk her out of a jelly belly or two! Nothing like using food to be popular!
It's Coffee Time
It wouldn't be Monday without going to coffee. I don't know what I would do if I went to drop the kids off to school and the usual group of suspects wasn't there to meet up to go to coffee with. Usually there is one or two moms that are up for their caffeine fix in the am. Plus, it gives me the slightest excuse to say I got a walk in. You know, a walk to the coffee shop and then a walk back. Never mind the full fat milk they probably put into the cappuccino I order or the chocolate they sprinkle on top of it. Its miraculously negated by any walking done to and fro. Yeah, that's it!
Sunday, July 29, 2007
And they're off
The kids had been begging us to take them bike riding for a while. Andrew had been asking for his training wheels to be removed for quite some time. And to be quite honest -- I had been lazy. I didn't want to deal with the fussing and complaining that I expected when the falls would happen. So I didn't do it. I just didn't want to deal with it. I wanted to wait until Jim was around. And he was this weekend. In fact today he got to spend the day with the kids -- just Daddy and the kids!
Jim took the training wheels off of Andrew's bike and put it and Emmalee's scooter into his trunk. Drove down to the Willoughby Leisure Centre where there are flat courts to practise on. Evidently he set Andrew down and the first time out he took off like a shot. No problems, no worries!
So, he rode around for a while having a great time and then Emmalee decided she wanted to ride her two-wheeler. They had a little swim at the WLC, got Dad a car wash and then came back home to get her bike. Threw that in the trunk with a pair of pliers to put her front wheel back on since the movers COMPLETELY dissasembled it and went back.
Not 15 minutes later I received a call to bring the entire tool box. WOW! When I got there, I met a woman who's husband offered to help Jim out. We took that offer and within 30 minutes, Emmalee was off and riding too!
It was great to see both kids riding away and enjoying their bicycles. I think the Razor scooters have helped them get their balance. Now all we need to do is get Andrew a bigger bike so he doesn't look like a circus clown riding a miniature bike.
Jim took the training wheels off of Andrew's bike and put it and Emmalee's scooter into his trunk. Drove down to the Willoughby Leisure Centre where there are flat courts to practise on. Evidently he set Andrew down and the first time out he took off like a shot. No problems, no worries!
So, he rode around for a while having a great time and then Emmalee decided she wanted to ride her two-wheeler. They had a little swim at the WLC, got Dad a car wash and then came back home to get her bike. Threw that in the trunk with a pair of pliers to put her front wheel back on since the movers COMPLETELY dissasembled it and went back.
Not 15 minutes later I received a call to bring the entire tool box. WOW! When I got there, I met a woman who's husband offered to help Jim out. We took that offer and within 30 minutes, Emmalee was off and riding too!
It was great to see both kids riding away and enjoying their bicycles. I think the Razor scooters have helped them get their balance. Now all we need to do is get Andrew a bigger bike so he doesn't look like a circus clown riding a miniature bike.
Saturday, July 28, 2007
Mattani's for Dinner
Nicole and Tony came over for dinner with Grace, Luka and Noah for dinner tonight. Since they had brought over a few Italian meals for Jim that struck out the Italian meals I have in my repertoire. I decided on Caribbean grilled chicken and black beans and rice with a spinach salad with strawberries, mandarin oranges, feta and walnuts. Nicole brought over homemade tiramasu and a multi-fruit pie with fresh custard for the top. Both were very, very good.
The kids had a blast running all over the place, inside and out. This was the first time we had the whole family over, so it was nice to get to know Nicole and Tony a little bit better. We also brought out the American presents for the kids. Each one got a t-shirt that had a subtle American theme. Luka's had baseball on it. He put it on right away and ran around for the rest of the night in it. (When I talked to Nicole on Monday she said he wore it all weekend, sleeping it every night and playing it it every day! He also said that "Andrew's mum is the best cook ever! so I have to post that, too!!)
The kids had a blast running all over the place, inside and out. This was the first time we had the whole family over, so it was nice to get to know Nicole and Tony a little bit better. We also brought out the American presents for the kids. Each one got a t-shirt that had a subtle American theme. Luka's had baseball on it. He put it on right away and ran around for the rest of the night in it. (When I talked to Nicole on Monday she said he wore it all weekend, sleeping it every night and playing it it every day! He also said that "Andrew's mum is the best cook ever! so I have to post that, too!!)
Soccer Time Again
It's soccer time again here in the Rhomberg household. Its actually dry and sunny here. Andrew had his soccer match at 8.30 at Tunks Park. His team did well. In fact Andrew scored the only goal for his team during one of the games!!!! Three cheers for Andrew!
Emmalee played later on at 11am at Bales. She did well also. She isn't as keen as Andrew is about soccer so I have a feeling that this will be her last season of soccer, as well as her first.
Emmalee played later on at 11am at Bales. She did well also. She isn't as keen as Andrew is about soccer so I have a feeling that this will be her last season of soccer, as well as her first.
Friday, July 27, 2007
Pizza Night
Another late night without the hubby so Sophie & John took pity on us and invited us to dinner at their house. Andrew is alone since Letetia works tonite too, so he brought over Anthea and Timmy and four yummy pizzas. Sophie made a spinach and tomato salad. I supplied the chocolate chip cookies. I think I even got a pseudo marriage proposal over them!!! I told them that is how I got Jim -- through cookies at Christmas time!
Was nice to just hang out with friends again. Much different coming back this time as opposed to last time when we had just moved here in December. Not knowing anyone and not having anyone to talk to when Jim was at work all the time. Its like a complete 180 -- now I have a circle of friends I can go to and know that the kids have people they can count on too! Much more comforting!
Jim did make it over eventually around nine or so. We got a call from him asking if their house was the one with the cat in the window since they weren't numbered well and this was the first time he has been over since they had moved. It was quite funny sitting at the kitchen table on the cellphone talking to him while he was outside like a peeping tom looking in windows! I think it was nice for him to be able to relax a little and let down after work, too!
Was nice to just hang out with friends again. Much different coming back this time as opposed to last time when we had just moved here in December. Not knowing anyone and not having anyone to talk to when Jim was at work all the time. Its like a complete 180 -- now I have a circle of friends I can go to and know that the kids have people they can count on too! Much more comforting!
Jim did make it over eventually around nine or so. We got a call from him asking if their house was the one with the cat in the window since they weren't numbered well and this was the first time he has been over since they had moved. It was quite funny sitting at the kitchen table on the cellphone talking to him while he was outside like a peeping tom looking in windows! I think it was nice for him to be able to relax a little and let down after work, too!
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Tantrum to End all Tantrums
Tonight I had a tantrum to end all tantrums. Well, I didn't have one, but I may as well have had one. We have always had a difficult time getting Emmalee to do her homework, but tonight he have hit a new low (or high depending on how you look at it).
Jim is still working late with plan, so I was on my own with the kids. Emmalee still had math and spelling to complete on her take-home worksheet that was due tomorrow (Friday). I let her go to skipping and manage all week long with the jet-lag excuse but by today, this was it. The homework had all week to get done and none was done. I said it had to be done before dinner and all she wanted to do was watch TV (which I said NO to) or fuss. So she fussed and screamed and yelled and hit and tantrumed and pitched a major hissy fit. She was chewing gum so I told her to give it to me as a first line of punishment... well she spit it out at me. So now she is banned from gum for a week! She has lost her webkinz, Katelyn, until Sunday for her attitude. She has balled up the homework and thrown it at me multiple times. She just absolutely refuses to do it. And I refuse to let her eat dinner until its done. SO we are at a stalemate.
And now she has finally fallen asleep in the green chair in the family room after glaring at me (and Jim when he finally got home) for what seems like hours.
Jim is still working late with plan, so I was on my own with the kids. Emmalee still had math and spelling to complete on her take-home worksheet that was due tomorrow (Friday). I let her go to skipping and manage all week long with the jet-lag excuse but by today, this was it. The homework had all week to get done and none was done. I said it had to be done before dinner and all she wanted to do was watch TV (which I said NO to) or fuss. So she fussed and screamed and yelled and hit and tantrumed and pitched a major hissy fit. She was chewing gum so I told her to give it to me as a first line of punishment... well she spit it out at me. So now she is banned from gum for a week! She has lost her webkinz, Katelyn, until Sunday for her attitude. She has balled up the homework and thrown it at me multiple times. She just absolutely refuses to do it. And I refuse to let her eat dinner until its done. SO we are at a stalemate.
And now she has finally fallen asleep in the green chair in the family room after glaring at me (and Jim when he finally got home) for what seems like hours.
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Broke Down
and joined NRMA. Which is the Australian version of AAA I presume. For a mere $150 bucks I get 4 jumps and 8 kms of towing per year. So now I just have to wait my 2 days to get my 1st jump. Bright and early Thursday morning I will be calling to get my jump.
Waiting. Waiting. Waiting. Without my wheels....
Waiting. Waiting. Waiting. Without my wheels....
I am without wheels
Ugh! It feels like we just moved here. Went to start the car to drive Andrew to soccer practise and the car was just dead. Nothing. No juice at all. Guess it sat too long while we were away. Or it missed us too much while we were away. I highly doubt that one, though. Never would have thought to have Jim start it up while he was back. Thought never crossed my mind. Will have to have him borrow jumper cables or a trickle charger from someone at work. CRAP!
Monday, July 23, 2007
Back to School
This morning it was fairly trouble free. I expected to have a little more problems dropping Andrew off after all the tears he shed last term at drop-off every day. Instead all he requested was I walk him to line-up and give him a kiss. Good for him!
Let's hope it stays this way!
I got a huge pile of paperwork from when we were gone the last two weeks. The kids' reports cards, their folders with samples of their work for the last two terms and all the notes that had been sent home. That was a good half hour or more of reading for each one! Overall both kids are adjusting well to school. We are very proud of their progress. Emmalee needs to work a little harder on her writing and reading, but considering where she had to come from she has done exceptionally well! We just need to keep her going and interested in it.
After drop-off, Letetia, Sophie, Nicole, Emma, Biddy and Sinead all walked up for coffee at Schmooze. It was nice to start the day off that way. Bright and sunny. In the mid 60's so the weather was nice. A beautiful morning!
Let's hope it stays this way!
I got a huge pile of paperwork from when we were gone the last two weeks. The kids' reports cards, their folders with samples of their work for the last two terms and all the notes that had been sent home. That was a good half hour or more of reading for each one! Overall both kids are adjusting well to school. We are very proud of their progress. Emmalee needs to work a little harder on her writing and reading, but considering where she had to come from she has done exceptionally well! We just need to keep her going and interested in it.
After drop-off, Letetia, Sophie, Nicole, Emma, Biddy and Sinead all walked up for coffee at Schmooze. It was nice to start the day off that way. Bright and sunny. In the mid 60's so the weather was nice. A beautiful morning!
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Magic Sunday
Here we are back in Northbridge less than 36 hours and Andrew is off to a birthday party for Hugo and Brian. It is a themed party and he has been requested to dress as a wizard. Since he still has Eddie the teddy he had grammy make capes to match for both of them. They are quite the sight to see.
Jim went off to work after church and since I was feeling slightly better I declined Nicole's offer to take Andrew to the party. Thought it would be good to visit with other parents there. Well at 1.55 we all wandered out to the car. I put the key in to start and nothing. It hardly turned over. CRAP! Looks like the battery died during the 3 1/2 weeks while we were out of town. Didn't think of that. So I ended up having to call Nicole anyway and having her take us to the party after all.
Andrew decided to wig out at the door and pull the 'I don't want to go to the party' fuss. So I told him I would stay. I mean, where else did I really have to go? Nicole could have taken me back home but she would have had to come and get me again... And why deal with a fussy child -- I didn't know how he would end up going with jet lag and all. So I said Emmalee and I would stay. But not 10 minutes after she left he was off and running with friends and just fine. Once the magic show started I don't think he would have even noticed if I had left. Or maybe just knowing I was there was all that he needed to know. Who knows! In the end he won the pass the parcel game (an acrylic paint set and got a Spiderman fabric bag for the party favor) so he walked out with some nice things, too.
It was nice to hang out and talk with the parents that stayed. Caught up with some of the moms who don't normally stay in the mornings at school, which was nice. Also talked to Emma who just arrived from England yesterday, too. She agreed that after 1 cup of coffee back there, she was ready to wait to get back here for another cup. Coffee here is much, much better! Too funny!!
Jim went off to work after church and since I was feeling slightly better I declined Nicole's offer to take Andrew to the party. Thought it would be good to visit with other parents there. Well at 1.55 we all wandered out to the car. I put the key in to start and nothing. It hardly turned over. CRAP! Looks like the battery died during the 3 1/2 weeks while we were out of town. Didn't think of that. So I ended up having to call Nicole anyway and having her take us to the party after all.
Andrew decided to wig out at the door and pull the 'I don't want to go to the party' fuss. So I told him I would stay. I mean, where else did I really have to go? Nicole could have taken me back home but she would have had to come and get me again... And why deal with a fussy child -- I didn't know how he would end up going with jet lag and all. So I said Emmalee and I would stay. But not 10 minutes after she left he was off and running with friends and just fine. Once the magic show started I don't think he would have even noticed if I had left. Or maybe just knowing I was there was all that he needed to know. Who knows! In the end he won the pass the parcel game (an acrylic paint set and got a Spiderman fabric bag for the party favor) so he walked out with some nice things, too.
It was nice to hang out and talk with the parents that stayed. Caught up with some of the moms who don't normally stay in the mornings at school, which was nice. Also talked to Emma who just arrived from England yesterday, too. She agreed that after 1 cup of coffee back there, she was ready to wait to get back here for another cup. Coffee here is much, much better! Too funny!!
Flying Back
The kids did really well flying back. In fact, they slept alot of the way. I was amazed. After the stress of the running for the first plane and the lateness of the flights, it was really good. They were asleep before the first meal was served on the way to Sydney -- that time it was for about 5 hours! Emmalee woke up in time to watch Blades of Glory. Jim said it was a really funny movie (He loves Will Farrell) so he said it was OK to watch it. I watched along with her. Not such a good idea. He apparently missed a large portion of the movie. Or failed to realized part of the theme -- it was funny but not so child appropriate. Sex addict???? What was he thinking for a 7 year old?? But by the time it was on I couldn't exactly stop her from watching without making a big deal.
We landed in Sydney at 6.01am--had to wait until the airport opened (there is a 6am curfew for planes to land!) and flew through the passport security. Unfortunately baggage was super slow. We didn't get our baggage until 7.25 due to baggage problems. UGH. On the bright side, after Jim forgetting where he parked the car in the lot, we did manage to squeeze ALL seven bags and boxes plus us into his car and leave the airport in one trip to go home. That was nice so we didn't have to run anything into Abbott and leave me waiting at the airport since his car is small and we didn't think everything would fit in one trip.
We landed in Sydney at 6.01am--had to wait until the airport opened (there is a 6am curfew for planes to land!) and flew through the passport security. Unfortunately baggage was super slow. We didn't get our baggage until 7.25 due to baggage problems. UGH. On the bright side, after Jim forgetting where he parked the car in the lot, we did manage to squeeze ALL seven bags and boxes plus us into his car and leave the airport in one trip to go home. That was nice so we didn't have to run anything into Abbott and leave me waiting at the airport since his car is small and we didn't think everything would fit in one trip.
Saturday, July 21, 2007
We're Back!
We're back at the house and things sure look different. Since we left a little less than four weeks ago all the leave have fallen. Looking out the window from the family room I can see into the neighbor's back yard, which is not such a nice view. But its also a very grey look outside. Definitely a dreary fall like look outside. The tulip magnolia has still been blooming in the back and there is a bush/tree in our carport that has bloomed while we are gone.
Since Jim didn't go to the grocery store, I went right away and left him to play with the kids. Ran into Sue D'Souza. Was nice to see a friend right away. Will see a few more tomorrow when I take Andrew to Brian and Hugo's birthday party.
Of course now that I am here, jet lag has set in and I have a migraine. UGH! At least it waited until here where I have my meds, since I lost them with the suitcase that UNITED lost. Hopefully it won't get to bad, but I am definitely seeing spots, so I am not too hopeful.
Nicole is bringing over dinner, which is truly nice. She has been more than wonderful to us while we have been gone. What a great friend we have found. I think we are having her and the family over for dinner next weekend...
Since Jim didn't go to the grocery store, I went right away and left him to play with the kids. Ran into Sue D'Souza. Was nice to see a friend right away. Will see a few more tomorrow when I take Andrew to Brian and Hugo's birthday party.
Of course now that I am here, jet lag has set in and I have a migraine. UGH! At least it waited until here where I have my meds, since I lost them with the suitcase that UNITED lost. Hopefully it won't get to bad, but I am definitely seeing spots, so I am not too hopeful.
Nicole is bringing over dinner, which is truly nice. She has been more than wonderful to us while we have been gone. What a great friend we have found. I think we are having her and the family over for dinner next weekend...
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Leaving on a Jet Plane
I Hate United Airlines. There is nothing more to say than that. First off they lose my luggage on the way to Chicago. And NEVER find it. Then we get to O'Hare to fly back to Sydney and stand in line for over and hour and still don't get to an agent. I realize that there isn't enough time to get our luggage checked in and say something to three different people. Get shuffelled around from Premier line to First Class and still no satisfaction. Eventually ask for a supervisor and finally at 30 minutes before our plane is to leave get our bags checked. UGH!
We have to run through security. Then we have to run all the way through O'Hare to concourse C, which is the far away --all the way under the airport, across the moving walkway, up the escalator to gate 19 with only 4 minutes to spare. Emmalee was shaking by the time we got to the plane. No time to feed the kids for the 6.30pm flight. We left the house at 3.30! I expected to have time to get the food at the airport after check-in! Thank goodness Grandma and Grandpa Rhomberg sent candybars the day before as a good-bye gift. And because we were so late checking in we no longer were in Economy Plus, we were in three different rows in the back of the plane! I had to get two different people to switch with us and give up their window and aisle seats to let us sit together. It was unbelievable. United SUCKS!
We have to run through security. Then we have to run all the way through O'Hare to concourse C, which is the far away --all the way under the airport, across the moving walkway, up the escalator to gate 19 with only 4 minutes to spare. Emmalee was shaking by the time we got to the plane. No time to feed the kids for the 6.30pm flight. We left the house at 3.30! I expected to have time to get the food at the airport after check-in! Thank goodness Grandma and Grandpa Rhomberg sent candybars the day before as a good-bye gift. And because we were so late checking in we no longer were in Economy Plus, we were in three different rows in the back of the plane! I had to get two different people to switch with us and give up their window and aisle seats to let us sit together. It was unbelievable. United SUCKS!
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Saying Goodbye
Today we had to do the terribly sad thing to say good-bye to Shannon, Ella, Brianna and Maryssa. To make things worse we had to do it in the parking lot of the outlet mall in Kenosha...
Emmalee spent the night with Brie last night and we met at Prime Outlets because Shannon's sister is visiting and they wanted to go shopping. (Surprise, surprise!!! about the shopping) Even the Canadians think that the shopping is waaaaay better here.
So, we say 'see you later' rather than good-bye to them all. Fingers crossed that they can meet us in Hawaii. Have to work on Mike a little harder I guess.
There was lots of hugging, smiling, sad eyes (mostly mine!) and already counting the days till we hang out again. Miss ya all!
Emmalee spent the night with Brie last night and we met at Prime Outlets because Shannon's sister is visiting and they wanted to go shopping. (Surprise, surprise!!! about the shopping) Even the Canadians think that the shopping is waaaaay better here.
So, we say 'see you later' rather than good-bye to them all. Fingers crossed that they can meet us in Hawaii. Have to work on Mike a little harder I guess.
There was lots of hugging, smiling, sad eyes (mostly mine!) and already counting the days till we hang out again. Miss ya all!
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Donut Sunday
This is a day the kids were looking forward to for a long time. Ever since we went to OLH with mom & dad the kids had been counting the Sundays 'til donut sunday. Today is the day!!!
They made it though church -- even took part in walking the gifts to the altar. A little unorganized since they do it a little differently.
Kids got to bring up the basket of money offerings, mom and dad carried the wine and I got the hosts. I though they go before the wine, but evidently they do it the opposite.
After mass, they made a bee-line to the hall. Each had a $1 to spend -- which got them a donut and a juice or milk. Emmalee found a chocolate frosted donut with sprinkles and Andrew got a traditional white frosted long john. Boy were they happy and they said it was worth the wait!
They made it though church -- even took part in walking the gifts to the altar. A little unorganized since they do it a little differently.
Kids got to bring up the basket of money offerings, mom and dad carried the wine and I got the hosts. I though they go before the wine, but evidently they do it the opposite.
After mass, they made a bee-line to the hall. Each had a $1 to spend -- which got them a donut and a juice or milk. Emmalee found a chocolate frosted donut with sprinkles and Andrew got a traditional white frosted long john. Boy were they happy and they said it was worth the wait!
Friday, July 13, 2007
Gramma and Grampa come to IL
Bill & Mary wanted to come and see us one more time before we went back so that they could spend a little more time with Emmalee and Andrew.
We arranged to meet them at Jose's Blue Sombrero -- a great Mexican restaurant that has awesome roasted tomato salsa and spicy shrimp soup. Was still as good as I remember. I think we got Mary liking it too. Bill got a kids meal of quesadillas since he wasn't that hungry. All was yummy.
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The kids went back with Bill & Mary and dad while mom and I did a little running around. I guess they took them back to the park. And then we got back all of us went to the pool (even Gramma Rhomberg!) The kids got to show off their new swimming skills like jumping and diving into the deep end. The pool was a little chilly but not too bad.
They stayed for dinner -- Grampa Rhomberg's favorite meal of ribs, sauerkraut and mashed potatoes. Then at 6.30 they took off for Dubuque again.
We arranged to meet them at Jose's Blue Sombrero -- a great Mexican restaurant that has awesome roasted tomato salsa and spicy shrimp soup. Was still as good as I remember. I think we got Mary liking it too. Bill got a kids meal of quesadillas since he wasn't that hungry. All was yummy.
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| From friday13 |
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| From friday13 |
The kids went back with Bill & Mary and dad while mom and I did a little running around. I guess they took them back to the park. And then we got back all of us went to the pool (even Gramma Rhomberg!) The kids got to show off their new swimming skills like jumping and diving into the deep end. The pool was a little chilly but not too bad.
They stayed for dinner -- Grampa Rhomberg's favorite meal of ribs, sauerkraut and mashed potatoes. Then at 6.30 they took off for Dubuque again.
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Hanging out in Barrington
After playing with Ben & Luke we piled into the car and headed out to Barrington. We made a pit stop in Vernon Hills to use the bathroom at Best Buy and then get ice cream cones at Ben & Jerry's. I figure we are on vacation, so treat the kids, right? Both kids chose the chocolate dipped cone that was rolled in sprinkles. Oooo what a mess. But they loved it.
On the 45 minute drive to Ingrid's, both kids cashed out. Andrew got a better snooze than Emmalee, but they both got one at least.
As soon as Emmalee went in to the house, Mia was all over her. I think its crazy since Mia was only 9 months old the last time she saw her, but babies and kids LOVE Emmalee!
Ryan was still sleeping in the chair, so the other three went right down to the basement to play with ALL THE TOYS!!! More toys than you would see in alot of houses. But toys my kids hadn't played with before or in a long time depending on the toy. Mia just toddled along where ever Emmalee went (or was carried by her!)
Eventually Ryan woke and went downstairs. He still has his singing fish from the cabin and played them for us.
He went around the corner and found Andrew on his trampoline. Not such a good thing since it evidently is his 'special toy'. So off Andrew went and then he went in search of another toy to play with.
We decided to take the kids outside to play since it was an absolutely gorgeous day. They wanted a chance to play on the famous Rainbow Playset that Ryan and Mia got last year -- before they move it to Canada.
On the 45 minute drive to Ingrid's, both kids cashed out. Andrew got a better snooze than Emmalee, but they both got one at least.
As soon as Emmalee went in to the house, Mia was all over her. I think its crazy since Mia was only 9 months old the last time she saw her, but babies and kids LOVE Emmalee!
Ryan was still sleeping in the chair, so the other three went right down to the basement to play with ALL THE TOYS!!! More toys than you would see in alot of houses. But toys my kids hadn't played with before or in a long time depending on the toy. Mia just toddled along where ever Emmalee went (or was carried by her!)
Eventually Ryan woke and went downstairs. He still has his singing fish from the cabin and played them for us. He went around the corner and found Andrew on his trampoline. Not such a good thing since it evidently is his 'special toy'. So off Andrew went and then he went in search of another toy to play with.We decided to take the kids outside to play since it was an absolutely gorgeous day. They wanted a chance to play on the famous Rainbow Playset that Ryan and Mia got last year -- before they move it to Canada.
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| From Trip To US |
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We had to take off at 5.45 since mom had promised Spaghetti Bolognese and there would be an hour drive or so. Ended up making a pit stop at COSTCO since we were basically passing it right now. Found some more bargains. 3 piece jammies for Andrew for $8. A raincoat that fits Emmalee for $12. Oh how I miss shopping there. And the kids hadn't forgotten SAMPLES!!!!! Unfortunately there was only one sample of a pasta salad and they weren't too fond of it. Oh well! |
Independence Grove with the Schroeders
Today is Ben Schroeder's 3rd birthday. We made plans to meet Erin and the boys at the Children's Play area at Independence Grove in Libertyville. Of course I said noon thinking I'd be out of the dentist in 30 minutes. Not so close. Didn't even have the kids in the car until noon. Drove thru McD's to get a quick lunch. Apple dippers and nuggets for the kids. Fruit and Walnut Salad for me.Made it to IG in about 20 minutes, so after parking we found Erin and Luke and Ben right about 12.30.
The kids just ran and ran. Played on climbing walls, slides, playground equipment and more.
They played until about 2 because Ben had to get home for a nap.
That was fine because I had scheduled a play at Joel & Ingrid's so they kids could see Ryan and Mia. Only afternoon we had left to see them. Wow time has just FLOWN BY!Off to the Dentist
This morning I finally went to the dentist. Had it scheduled for the 1st Monday here, but the sinus infection got the better of me then and I decided to reschedule. This is when I could get back in.
I had been going to Dr. Damko since I was as young as Emmalee. It's only 2 blocks from Mom & Dad's so its really close.
After chatting with the front desk lady about Australia (normal 1st five minutes with everyone I see back here is at least 5 minutes all about where we are at...) I went back to the exam room. 7 digital bitewing x-rays later she was ready to start the cleaning process of my teeth. I told the hygenist, Michelle, about how since moving to Australia, my gums and teeth had been terrible. In fact, I really didn't have them stop until getting back here in the last few weeks. Even flossing didn't help -- no matter what Jim said. I even did it more regularly since December '06 than I ever had in my life.
Michelle said they just had a guy come back from a year abroad studying in Australia. He has been using the same Colgate toothpaste that I bought there. Evidently he had the exact same problems. All the dentist could figure out after seeing the toothpaste he brought back in is that in AUS they have different regulations about the formula -- flouride levels and added Citric Acid or Vitamin C. So they told me to stop using it right away. And then ordered me a case of Crest to take back with me when I go. So now I'll have 24 tubes of toothpaste...should have a sparkling smile for quite some time now!
Exam was fine, but they now have this little laser probe that they run across your teeth to see tiny, tiny cavities. And they found some!!! UGH! So now I have to go back Wednesday morning to get fillings. Fun Fun. But she said that stress and the formulation and excess Cortisol from moving/stress can definitely throw my mouth our of whack and give me cavities. Makes me mad. But better to fill them now than have them get worse I guess while I am away.
I had been going to Dr. Damko since I was as young as Emmalee. It's only 2 blocks from Mom & Dad's so its really close.
After chatting with the front desk lady about Australia (normal 1st five minutes with everyone I see back here is at least 5 minutes all about where we are at...) I went back to the exam room. 7 digital bitewing x-rays later she was ready to start the cleaning process of my teeth. I told the hygenist, Michelle, about how since moving to Australia, my gums and teeth had been terrible. In fact, I really didn't have them stop until getting back here in the last few weeks. Even flossing didn't help -- no matter what Jim said. I even did it more regularly since December '06 than I ever had in my life.
Michelle said they just had a guy come back from a year abroad studying in Australia. He has been using the same Colgate toothpaste that I bought there. Evidently he had the exact same problems. All the dentist could figure out after seeing the toothpaste he brought back in is that in AUS they have different regulations about the formula -- flouride levels and added Citric Acid or Vitamin C. So they told me to stop using it right away. And then ordered me a case of Crest to take back with me when I go. So now I'll have 24 tubes of toothpaste...should have a sparkling smile for quite some time now!
Exam was fine, but they now have this little laser probe that they run across your teeth to see tiny, tiny cavities. And they found some!!! UGH! So now I have to go back Wednesday morning to get fillings. Fun Fun. But she said that stress and the formulation and excess Cortisol from moving/stress can definitely throw my mouth our of whack and give me cavities. Makes me mad. But better to fill them now than have them get worse I guess while I am away.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Playing with Max and Megan
Since today was decided to be a lazy day here at Shea Casa, we decided to call up Bill & Beth Dermody to see if Max and Megan wanted to play. They accepted and we went over around 10am. Kids just played and played. They built forts with lawn furniture and sheets. Megan and Emmalee created signs that said BOYS NOT ALLOWED, GIRLS ONLY. It was really funny and cute until they decided that Max wasn't allowed in. Not such a good thing when the numbers are even and Andrew will play whatever side works to his advantage. This time it was be nice to the girls and you can join their club.
We tried to leave, or rather I should say Mom and I tried to leave around noonish, but of course the kids wouldn't have it. So, I broke down and gave in. Drove to McD's to pick up some health food for all of us. A round of double cheeseburgers, apple dippers, chicken mcnuggets, three french fries and a quarter pounder and a big mac. Bill told me to double check the order since the last time he went thru they shorted him the apple dippers. Good thing, too since they pulled the same stunt (or was it just pure ignorance/stupidity). I had to walk in to get the apple dippers.
The kids enjoyed an all-American picnic complete with Root-Beer supplied by Gramma Beth. Then off to play some more. The girls went off to Megan's room to play girl things and Andrew and Max went to the basement to do whatever it is that little boys do!
I had to drag them out at 3 with a bribe of taking Megan back with us -- so the girls could go swimming at Cindy's pool. I got Andrew to agree to help me make chocolate chip cookies before we hit the pool. Once that was done, the four of us headed over there.
Since I didn't know Megan's skills so I said that she needed to stay in the shallow end until Mom got over there. They did well enough until Andrew asked if he needed his tubes in his ears. CRAP!!! He meant ear plugs for after surgery and I haven't needed them for a few years, so I totally forgot. UGH! Got those in, mom got into the deep end and Emmalee and Megan swam and jumped and cannonballed to their hearts desire.
We had only 2 bathroom breaks over the 90 minutes we were there. Wonder who had the tiny boy bladder?!?!?! Yup, Andrew just needs to pee way too often when it comes to swimming. At least he does it in the bathroom, not the pool.
Took Megan back to her house and the whole way the girls tried to talk/connive me into a sleep-over. I couldn't give in, Emme and Andrew were way too tired to deal with a sleepover. And I need some sleep. So, I am using the postponing tactics and now we might do it Monday night. Unless we come up with something for over the weekend. I think they would be really good friends (and non-blood cousins!) if we stayed here...At least they should be when we get back in a few years.
We tried to leave, or rather I should say Mom and I tried to leave around noonish, but of course the kids wouldn't have it. So, I broke down and gave in. Drove to McD's to pick up some health food for all of us. A round of double cheeseburgers, apple dippers, chicken mcnuggets, three french fries and a quarter pounder and a big mac. Bill told me to double check the order since the last time he went thru they shorted him the apple dippers. Good thing, too since they pulled the same stunt (or was it just pure ignorance/stupidity). I had to walk in to get the apple dippers.
The kids enjoyed an all-American picnic complete with Root-Beer supplied by Gramma Beth. Then off to play some more. The girls went off to Megan's room to play girl things and Andrew and Max went to the basement to do whatever it is that little boys do!
I had to drag them out at 3 with a bribe of taking Megan back with us -- so the girls could go swimming at Cindy's pool. I got Andrew to agree to help me make chocolate chip cookies before we hit the pool. Once that was done, the four of us headed over there.
Since I didn't know Megan's skills so I said that she needed to stay in the shallow end until Mom got over there. They did well enough until Andrew asked if he needed his tubes in his ears. CRAP!!! He meant ear plugs for after surgery and I haven't needed them for a few years, so I totally forgot. UGH! Got those in, mom got into the deep end and Emmalee and Megan swam and jumped and cannonballed to their hearts desire.
We had only 2 bathroom breaks over the 90 minutes we were there. Wonder who had the tiny boy bladder?!?!?! Yup, Andrew just needs to pee way too often when it comes to swimming. At least he does it in the bathroom, not the pool.
Took Megan back to her house and the whole way the girls tried to talk/connive me into a sleep-over. I couldn't give in, Emme and Andrew were way too tired to deal with a sleepover. And I need some sleep. So, I am using the postponing tactics and now we might do it Monday night. Unless we come up with something for over the weekend. I think they would be really good friends (and non-blood cousins!) if we stayed here...At least they should be when we get back in a few years.
Season One Down...Waiting on Volume 2
I just finished up watching the final season finale of HEROES. I was slightly afraid I would miss it, even with the Foxtel IQ waiting for me to return by recording the episodes of my favorites while I away. I dealt with the amount of time to see episodes in their entirety since they were over a month or two ago back in the States. So, when I got here I looked up the episodes on NBC and I can catch up on everything. In fact, I was so excited I ignored the sleep I needed and started catching up.
WHOA was the finale of HEROES good. I brought most storylines to a close, but left a few open. But definitely worth watching the whole season for. Jim missed out by not keeping up.
...now if ABC wouldn't have been so up on technology that they are still live broadcasting the shows that are in re-runs (Greys, LOST, Ugly Betty), then I would have been able to catch up on them without having to resort to iTunes to watch them!
WHOA was the finale of HEROES good. I brought most storylines to a close, but left a few open. But definitely worth watching the whole season for. Jim missed out by not keeping up.
...now if ABC wouldn't have been so up on technology that they are still live broadcasting the shows that are in re-runs (Greys, LOST, Ugly Betty), then I would have been able to catch up on them without having to resort to iTunes to watch them!
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Arroz y Frijoles
Since grammy and grampy had an eye doctor appointment this afternoon AND I was lazy and didn't offer to cook anything, grammy asked what we wanted for dinner. She had chicken nuggets for the kids and offered to pick up gyros for the grown-ups. Sounded OK, but when I mentioned Mexican food to Andrew he perked up, said no nuggets, yes Mexican. So we arranged to meet at Casa Bonita at 5.45pm.Packed everyone in the Expedition and headed out. Since we were REALLY low on gas, I knew I had to fill up soon. The stations by their house were up to $3.45 a gallon. UGH! I was hoping I would find it a little cheaper and was happy to see the 7-11 in Zion still had it for $3.18. I pulled in (as did LOTS of other people) and put $83 dollars worth of gas into us. WHOA! But still it was cheaper than anywhere we saw the whole way to dinner.
Got to the restaurant and the waiter/bartender spoke spanish to the kids. They possibly??? remembered some to speak back 'un poco'. Ordered flautas with rice and beans for the kids and chimichangas for me. And snacked on real chips and salsa. YUM!!!!!Have been missing good Mexican food since we moved, so it was nice to make to an authentic Mexican restaurant. Food was yummy. Music was fun to dance to... both kids enjoyed a quick dance with their pals after dinner was finished.
I Can Hear You
Made it to the hospital only 10 minutes late for our 6.30am appointment this morning. Woke Andrew just before 6 and decided to skip the 2nd antibacterial bath figuring it would not start the morning off on the right foot. And how dirty could he really get while sleeping???Got checked in and taken back by 7am to the pre-op waiting area. Changed the little man into his gown "This is a girl's dress! Why am I wearing it? At least I have my Dash (from the Incredibles) undies on I guess"
Met the nurses, got all the information and sat back for our 5th time through this. The nurses figured it was old hat for us, so they pretty much skipped all the explanations we normally would get. Andrew got to watch Playhouse Disney which he usually doesn't do, but evidently he had seen all the shows already because he knew what was going to happen on them all. I couldn't remember the last time he watched PD, so I asked when he saw them and he said at Jenny's (his old babysitter in Grayslake). That was over 8 months ago that he stopped going and he can still remember TV shows!
He guessed that he would go back with Dr. Pollock by 8.15 and low and behold, his nurse,
Pat wheeled him out at 8.15. Pretty good guessing I would say. By 8.31 Dr. Pollock came out to tell me he was all done and things looked good. I got to wait until 8.56 for him to wake up and ask for me. Evidently when the nurses 1st woke him up he said he was till tired and went back to sleep.
He had to eat a Popsicle before they would discharge him. A lovely red Popsicle that he threw up all over the car three minutes after we left. UGH! Totally upset him that his blankie and Eddie got sick on them. But grammy was doing laundry today, so when we got back they went right in the wash and are better than ever.
He was more tired and dizzy than I remember after the other surgeries. Possibly his equilibrium has been out of whack for too long? But after a 2 hour nap this afternoon, he was good as new!
Say a prayer for us...
We are off to Condell Medical Center for a 6.30 am check-in time for Andrew's 5th ear tube surgery in less than 5 years. It should be pretty quick -- I figure he should be in for the surgery with Dr. Pollack by 7.30, out before 8am depending on how quick he comes out of the anesthesia. So we should be back on the way to grammy and grampy's by 10. Which will be good since I can't give him anything to eat or drink after midnight on Monday night. That will be fun fun fun since he has had a hole in his stomach or a hollow leg. And drinking water or liquids like a fish -- we had to stop three time for potty breaks during a 2 hour shopping trip today. Maybe not even 2 hours!!!
But, I do get to bathe him in Dial Antibacterial Soap Monday night and again Tuesday morning prior to surgery to "cut down on germs and bacteria brought into the hospital". Lovely -- a tired, cranky mommy bathing a tired, hungry cranky kid at 5.30am...
But, I do get to bathe him in Dial Antibacterial Soap Monday night and again Tuesday morning prior to surgery to "cut down on germs and bacteria brought into the hospital". Lovely -- a tired, cranky mommy bathing a tired, hungry cranky kid at 5.30am...
Monday, July 9, 2007
I feel pretty...Oh so pretty
I saw a few too many gray hairs creeping in around around my hairline. Don't know if its the travelling, the kids or what??? All I know is that there seem to be ALOT of gray hairs appearing every day -- way too fast. Its giving 34 a bad look. UGH!
So, I broke down and made an appointment at Gemini Salon and Spa in Kenosha. Couldn't get in to my regular stylist, Heidi or Charity, so I figured they have my formula for color on file and anyone could do it. I had an appointment with Hillary at 3.30 on Monday. So, when they called to confirm yesterday I decided to see if anyone was free for a pedicure and got in with Sarah at 2.30.
So, after 2 1/2 hours, I walked out with Kangarooby Red on my toes, super soft feet and a refreshed hair color. No more grays for me right now. YIPEE!!!
So, I broke down and made an appointment at Gemini Salon and Spa in Kenosha. Couldn't get in to my regular stylist, Heidi or Charity, so I figured they have my formula for color on file and anyone could do it. I had an appointment with Hillary at 3.30 on Monday. So, when they called to confirm yesterday I decided to see if anyone was free for a pedicure and got in with Sarah at 2.30.
So, after 2 1/2 hours, I walked out with Kangarooby Red on my toes, super soft feet and a refreshed hair color. No more grays for me right now. YIPEE!!!
Sunday, July 8, 2007
Never met a buffet they didn't like
After church today, mom and dad said they would take us out for brunch. They had picked out a little restaurant they usually go to after church. We were all set to go, invited the Dermody's when the kids hit grammy and grampy a curve ball. They didn't want to go to grammy and grampy's choice, they wanted to go back to "the place where all the food was laid out and you didn't have to order."
So, they agreed and all eight of us went over to N&J's restaurant. It was there exactly the way the kids remembered, all the way down to the gumball machines by the door.
So, french toast, pancakes, bacon, sausage links, a donut each, scrambled eggs, watermelon, strawberries, pineapple, cantaloupe and honeydew melon (and grits for me) later, we were all full. Kids got their quarter from Grammy and headed over for a gumball. Everyone was happy. Well, they were until Andrew got busted with his gum out of his mouth for the 2nd or 3rd time and lost it...
So, they agreed and all eight of us went over to N&J's restaurant. It was there exactly the way the kids remembered, all the way down to the gumball machines by the door.
So, french toast, pancakes, bacon, sausage links, a donut each, scrambled eggs, watermelon, strawberries, pineapple, cantaloupe and honeydew melon (and grits for me) later, we were all full. Kids got their quarter from Grammy and headed over for a gumball. Everyone was happy. Well, they were until Andrew got busted with his gum out of his mouth for the 2nd or 3rd time and lost it...
Saturday, July 7, 2007
Another All American Meal
At the kids' request (and grandpa's too!), we grilled cheese burgers for supper again tonight. Add to that the new season Sweet Corn on the Cob (dripping in butter!) and Jay's Original Potato Chips.
Needless to say, it was yummy! So much so that even Boo stole the portion of burger that Andrew didn't eat and tried to take it back to his lair! I found it sitting in the hallway downstairs. He is still up to his old tricks!
Needless to say, it was yummy! So much so that even Boo stole the portion of burger that Andrew didn't eat and tried to take it back to his lair! I found it sitting in the hallway downstairs. He is still up to his old tricks!
Who's coming for dinner?
After we got back from swimming this afternoon at Cindy's pool, mom put out some snacks. Part of the platter included crackers and brie. When Andrew saw the cheese he asked, "Who is coming over?" Confused, Grammy said, "This is for our snack." To which Andrew replied, "We only have this for barbeque's!" Hmmmmmm......
I guess he thinks I only put out the good stuff for company!
I guess he thinks I only put out the good stuff for company!
Friday, July 6, 2007
Uncle Sam is here!!!
All afternoon the kids kept asking how long until Uncle Sam and Boo-Boo would be here. Luckily Sam can drive pretty quickly -- or the traffic was lighter than usual. Probably shouldn't ask which one it was, right?Anyway Sam made it in by 7.30 so that he even got to eat supper with us. The kids were so excited. Boo really didn't seem to remember us (duh -- he's a cat) but the kids were happy to have their Uncle Sam back. Hugging and getting wild. The best part of the night so far for them I would be is when Uncle Sam suggested we have custard at Shirl's. I tried to tell them that we had it last night so they didn't need it tonight. Andrew wasn't going for that logic.
So, 2nd night in a row we ended up at Shirl's. Jr. cones for the kids, butter pecan for Grandma and Uncle Sam had strawberry. I guess Andrew was really hungry for dessert because he finished off the cone for Grandma and he and Emmalee finished off Uncle Sam's too. I had my fill of frozen custard last night, so I didn't need any more tonight.Came home, got the kids ready for bed and Uncle Sam read them a story.
It was really cute.I am here ready for bed and have Boo all watered in the bathroom from the faucet and now he is here on the bottom of the bed all snuggled in. I sure hope he stays that way rather than being loud all night!
We did some damage today...
Mom and I hit Westfield Hawthorn today. She had some stuff to return to Macy's and I wanted to hit Crate and Barrel for a travel table and Victoria's Secret for some undies. Ran into Ann Taylor Loft, too. Think I got out of C&B and VS in five minutes or less. Macy's was pretty quick except that I bought a new red 25" suitcase. Let's hope UNITED won't lose this one too. ATL was a little longer of a stop -- they had buy one, get the 2nd 50% off of all sale clothes. Still haven't found ATL in Australia, so had to check out what they had. Managed to find a few things for me and just as many for mom!
After that we went down the road and had lunch at the Cheesecake Factory in Lincolnshire. That's a meal I couldn't miss while I was back. Was nice to have the Santa Fe Salad and brown bread and New England Clam Chowder. YUM!
After that we ran past The Container Store and Trader Joe's. I needed to get some more vanilla extract, vanilla bean paste and crystallized Vitamin C. On the way back we stopped at K-Mart to get a mattress pad cover for the kids' bed since Andrew has regressed a little at night. He has had two accident nights in a row. Found really cute swimsuits for both kids at 50% OFF. They were Joe Boxer's trunks done in an American Flag for Andrew and a stars and stripes bikini for Emme.
The only place we didn't hit that was on today's list was Tuesday Morning and that wasn't for lack of time or trying... Its inventory week this week and next, so they are closed until July 16th. Guess I'll just have to wait!
After that we went down the road and had lunch at the Cheesecake Factory in Lincolnshire. That's a meal I couldn't miss while I was back. Was nice to have the Santa Fe Salad and brown bread and New England Clam Chowder. YUM!
After that we ran past The Container Store and Trader Joe's. I needed to get some more vanilla extract, vanilla bean paste and crystallized Vitamin C. On the way back we stopped at K-Mart to get a mattress pad cover for the kids' bed since Andrew has regressed a little at night. He has had two accident nights in a row. Found really cute swimsuits for both kids at 50% OFF. They were Joe Boxer's trunks done in an American Flag for Andrew and a stars and stripes bikini for Emme.
The only place we didn't hit that was on today's list was Tuesday Morning and that wasn't for lack of time or trying... Its inventory week this week and next, so they are closed until July 16th. Guess I'll just have to wait!Thursday, July 5, 2007
Friends make it more like home every day
Just got a message from Jim now that he is back in AUS. One of our friends, Grace's mom - Nicole had left some housewarming things for Jim since she knew he was back and back alone.
"...Just wanted to drop a quick note (getting tired). Stopped off at Woolies for a few basics and got home around 7:00ish. When I drove in I thought there were a couple of things in the car port. Sure enough Nicole M. had left me 2 jugs of milk, homemade rice casserole, a nice loaf of bread and some homemade brownies with a nice note saying she thought I could use some food since I will be working late. How nice was that?!?!? She had left 2 voice mails saying she would stop by and then that she did drop by with the food. She is soooo nice and really makes me realize we have some pretty nice friends here. That is worthy of the blog. I called and talked for a little while and told her thanks. Grace did well at her surgery and she misses Andrew. That was really nice of her though and is a sign of the nice people we have met..."
Nicole and I had been emailing back and forth since we left in June. I didn't know how I would feel when I was back home in the States. We left behind so many friends and definitely a few good, close ones. But those friends took a while to get. We have only been in Northbridge for 7 months or so before this first home leave trip and I can honestly say that I have met some incredible people. Many of whom I am very lucky to call good friends. I am thankful for such a great opportunity and need to think about how these people have become friends. A home is only a home when it is with family... and I have to add friends make the neighborhood. So, I guess we are some of the really, really lucky people who have two homes!
"...Just wanted to drop a quick note (getting tired). Stopped off at Woolies for a few basics and got home around 7:00ish. When I drove in I thought there were a couple of things in the car port. Sure enough Nicole M. had left me 2 jugs of milk, homemade rice casserole, a nice loaf of bread and some homemade brownies with a nice note saying she thought I could use some food since I will be working late. How nice was that?!?!? She had left 2 voice mails saying she would stop by and then that she did drop by with the food. She is soooo nice and really makes me realize we have some pretty nice friends here. That is worthy of the blog. I called and talked for a little while and told her thanks. Grace did well at her surgery and she misses Andrew. That was really nice of her though and is a sign of the nice people we have met..."
Nicole and I had been emailing back and forth since we left in June. I didn't know how I would feel when I was back home in the States. We left behind so many friends and definitely a few good, close ones. But those friends took a while to get. We have only been in Northbridge for 7 months or so before this first home leave trip and I can honestly say that I have met some incredible people. Many of whom I am very lucky to call good friends. I am thankful for such a great opportunity and need to think about how these people have become friends. A home is only a home when it is with family... and I have to add friends make the neighborhood. So, I guess we are some of the really, really lucky people who have two homes!
Lazy Summer Afternoons
For being vacation, we are ALL taking advantage of it. Set Emmalee up on mom and dad's bed with the Food Network for a rest (at her request!!!!) Andrew plopped down on my bed with Wimbledon on the tv. I got relegated to the room Emmalee sleeps in at night. Andrew and I cashed out quickly. Mom said Emme got up with a tooth ache and a bathroom break, but was out by 3. Didn't wake up until Jim called at 4.30. Nice nap for me. Had to wake each child up so that they could talk to daddy. Figured they would be grumpy with me if I didn't let them talk to him.
After the phone conversation, the kids hurried into their swimsuits. I got into mine and all us of (mom and dad included) went over to Cindy's pool. Ahhhh, the water was a warm 31.5 or 88.7 degrees. Just the way that I like it! Doesn't take your breath away at all.Kids spent close to an hour diving for the submarine markers Jim and I bought for pool toys since Cindy doesn't have kids playing in her pool anymore. Her's are all grown up... Emmalee just loves diving for the markers and was just swimming like a fish everywhere. Andrew liked to go for them, but isn't as fast or confident. Which is fine.
We must have been in the pool until 6.10 when I had to kick them out so I could go back and help with dinner. Grilled Pizza! YUMMY!
Dr. Maddox
After the ice cream bribe, we hurried over to Gurnee to get to the dentist for the kids. As we pull into the parking lot and pile out of the car, we see a familiar family. Sue Young (yes another YOUNG, but the original Young family we knew here in Grayslake) was walking out with Ali, Charlie and David. They had just visited Dr. Maddox. We were both surprised to see each other, so it was a nice little chat. I need to remember to send her the address of the blog since she said she can't find it anymore. But she remembered that I was writing, so that is nice. Hopefully we'll see them at the pool next week or something.
Raced upstairs to Dr. Maddox and within minutes the kids were in the back getting bite-wing x-rays. Then came the teeth cleaning, which I had to tell the hygienist that the teeth would have been cleaner if it weren't for the ice cream they just inhaled. This dentist is nice because they don't take the parents back. So I got some time to peruse through the Midwest Living Magazine. Think I might have to spring for the overseas mailing of it. Looks like most magazines are about $10US more to have them sent overseas, so I am now making a list of the ones I am missing most and can't get in AUS.
Kids came out with sparkling teeth. The usual info to brush more often (like 2x a day instead of the 1x a day the kids much prefer). Dr. Maddox said their teeth looked good, just had a bit more tartar than he would expect for 7 months away. Oh, and Emmalee is still on track for braces when we move back. UGH.
Two loose teeth for Emmalee and none for Andrew. Cool suction cup toothbrushes and cinnamon dental floss along with a pencil and stickers for both. A happy trip and NO CAVITIES!!!!! YIPEE!!!
Raced upstairs to Dr. Maddox and within minutes the kids were in the back getting bite-wing x-rays. Then came the teeth cleaning, which I had to tell the hygienist that the teeth would have been cleaner if it weren't for the ice cream they just inhaled. This dentist is nice because they don't take the parents back. So I got some time to peruse through the Midwest Living Magazine. Think I might have to spring for the overseas mailing of it. Looks like most magazines are about $10US more to have them sent overseas, so I am now making a list of the ones I am missing most and can't get in AUS.
Kids came out with sparkling teeth. The usual info to brush more often (like 2x a day instead of the 1x a day the kids much prefer). Dr. Maddox said their teeth looked good, just had a bit more tartar than he would expect for 7 months away. Oh, and Emmalee is still on track for braces when we move back. UGH.
Two loose teeth for Emmalee and none for Andrew. Cool suction cup toothbrushes and cinnamon dental floss along with a pencil and stickers for both. A happy trip and NO CAVITIES!!!!! YIPEE!!!
How big are we now?
Today the kids got their annual check-ups. Here are the stats!
Andrew:
Age - 5 years, 2 months, 2 days
Weight - 46 lbs (75%-90%)
Height - 44 1/4" (75%-90%)
BMI - 16.5 (75% which they said is fine)
Blood Pressure - 90/60
Shot(s) - Hepatitis A (#2 after Jan 5, 2008), TB Skin test (Left arm), Hemoglobin: 13.7 (normal)
(NEEDS 2nd dose of chicken pox vaccine, but they were out
Emmalee:
Age - 7 years, 0 months, 22 days
Weight - 56 lbs (75%-90%)
Height - 50 1/2" (90%)
BMI - 15.4 (50% which they said is fine)
Shot(s) - Hepatitis A (#2 after Jan 5, 2008), TB Skin test (Left arm), NEEDS 2nd dose of chicken pox vaccine, but they were out
Andrew:
Age - 5 years, 2 months, 2 days
Weight - 46 lbs (75%-90%)
Height - 44 1/4" (75%-90%)
BMI - 16.5 (75% which they said is fine)
Blood Pressure - 90/60
Shot(s) - Hepatitis A (#2 after Jan 5, 2008), TB Skin test (Left arm), Hemoglobin: 13.7 (normal)
(NEEDS 2nd dose of chicken pox vaccine, but they were out
Emmalee:
Age - 7 years, 0 months, 22 days
Weight - 56 lbs (75%-90%)
Height - 50 1/2" (90%)
BMI - 15.4 (50% which they said is fine)
Shot(s) - Hepatitis A (#2 after Jan 5, 2008), TB Skin test (Left arm), NEEDS 2nd dose of chicken pox vaccine, but they were out
Annual Check-ups
Since we went to the fireworks last night we all were up late. Me more so because I stayed up to write and upload photos so Jim could experience the 4th of July along with us. I had asked for an 8.15 wake-up so I could get cleaned up before the doctor visit I so unthinkable scheduled at 9.20 in Grayslake.
Well, 8.25 I wake up with a start and RUN to the shower. Get upstairs at 8.32 to find Andrew in the kitchen. Get his clothes quickly and put some KK donut holes in a bag for him and Emmalee. Urge him to get dressed while I attempt to wake up Emme. Very slow going. She was soooooo tired she said. All this time, mom was ASLEEP. Never trust the human alarm clock, that's for sure.
We squeak out of the driveway by 8.46 and make it to the doctor right at 9.20. Cut it close.
The whole way there the kids asked if they were going to have to have shots. I told them no because they got them last year and its not flu season here, so I didn't think shots were on the radar for this time.
OOOOOOPS! I was wrong. Since we live in the Pan-Asian area, they are more likely to get Hepatitis A and needed to be tested for TB also. Lovely. Emmalee FREAKED OUT. Andrew was a brave little guy and volunteered to go first. Then the screaming began. He survived his two shots and one pinprick of the fingertip for the hemoglobin test. That came back normal right away. He was excited to get to pee in a cup, too. Then it was time for Emmalee's shots. UGHH!!! Took all I had to hold her down for the first one (HEP A) in her leg. Didn't know if we would make it for the TB test or if I would get the shot in my arm instead because she was fighting it so much. I think the anticipation got to her.
She survived with much screaming. Waaaay louder than the 3 month old in the room next to us. You would have thought she was being beaten the way she was yelping. Got a prescription for some cream to try to rid her poor face of the bumpy rash she gets around her mouth. Let's hope it helps.
After we checked out, I bribed them with a trip to Dunkin Donuts. We had 45 minutes before their dental check-ups. Got inside and of course there was a Baskin Robbins, so we ditched the donuts for a scoop of mint chocolate chip for Andrew and a scoop of chocolate chip cookie dough for Emme. Smiles were seen all around.
Well, 8.25 I wake up with a start and RUN to the shower. Get upstairs at 8.32 to find Andrew in the kitchen. Get his clothes quickly and put some KK donut holes in a bag for him and Emmalee. Urge him to get dressed while I attempt to wake up Emme. Very slow going. She was soooooo tired she said. All this time, mom was ASLEEP. Never trust the human alarm clock, that's for sure.
We squeak out of the driveway by 8.46 and make it to the doctor right at 9.20. Cut it close.
The whole way there the kids asked if they were going to have to have shots. I told them no because they got them last year and its not flu season here, so I didn't think shots were on the radar for this time.
OOOOOOPS! I was wrong. Since we live in the Pan-Asian area, they are more likely to get Hepatitis A and needed to be tested for TB also. Lovely. Emmalee FREAKED OUT. Andrew was a brave little guy and volunteered to go first. Then the screaming began. He survived his two shots and one pinprick of the fingertip for the hemoglobin test. That came back normal right away. He was excited to get to pee in a cup, too. Then it was time for Emmalee's shots. UGHH!!! Took all I had to hold her down for the first one (HEP A) in her leg. Didn't know if we would make it for the TB test or if I would get the shot in my arm instead because she was fighting it so much. I think the anticipation got to her.
She survived with much screaming. Waaaay louder than the 3 month old in the room next to us. You would have thought she was being beaten the way she was yelping. Got a prescription for some cream to try to rid her poor face of the bumpy rash she gets around her mouth. Let's hope it helps.
After we checked out, I bribed them with a trip to Dunkin Donuts. We had 45 minutes before their dental check-ups. Got inside and of course there was a Baskin Robbins, so we ditched the donuts for a scoop of mint chocolate chip for Andrew and a scoop of chocolate chip cookie dough for Emme. Smiles were seen all around.
Wednesday, July 4, 2007
Happy Independence Day
Today we celebrate the 231st birthday of our nation's independence. Although the Declaration of Independence wasn't even signed on this day, I was told that John Adams felt it important to celebrate the drafting and signing by parades and celebrations and fireworks (Thanks Beth!)The Dermody's invited us to watch the fireworks at the Great Lakes Naval Base. Bill had his Military ID from when he worked on the base so we were able to get on as civilian guests. We drove down about 7pm to get a spot in front of the clock tower.
Emmalee and I went to get her face painted and a patriotic tattoo. That took about 30 minutes. Then we went back to the group. Right after we got back the Chicago Boys, an acrobatic group from Chicago. They put on a 30 minute show with skipping and and gymnastics. Andrew thought that was the best part of the night.
The navy band played the entire time I stood in line to buy a funnel cake.
Beth said it isn't the 4th of July without one, so I waited in line because Dad and Bill didn't want to. A 30 minute line for 3 hot, powdered sugar covered funnel cakes. Then when there was only 1 person in front of me, a sailor (looked like a new recruit) asked if I would get him one too since there were about 60 people or more in line behind of where I was. I said yes, hoped the people in line wouldn't kill me, and got him one, too. He gave me money, but knowing what he is going to do for the country and for us, I couldn't let him pay. You should have seen the look of shock in his face. Guess he didn't expect anyone to do that for him.The band played on until 9.30 when the bugler sounded the final call with reveille. 
And then the show began.
And then the show began.Chicago calling Tiffany
One of our Sydney friends isn't able to make it back to Chicago this summer for a home leave visit. Her hubby, James, got to go for a work trip, but due to (happy) circumstances, she was not allowed to fly at this time.
So, Tiffany, this one is for you...
It was too quick
No matter the title I chose for this post:
He was too quick, He hardly got to stay, It was too quick, It went too fast, etc. it just doesn't sound good.
Jim hopped in the limo to head back to Australia this afternoon. I would have driven him, but with puffy hands and feet, not to mention an antihistamine induced haze, we both decided the limo was a better choice.
He almost didn't get back there today. He called AmEx to change his ticket yesterday and thought he was all set. But his admin called to say that he was booked on Thurs, not Tues. So panic set in. He couldn't call to change until this morning and when he called for today's flight, it was full according to AmEx. UGH. He ended up calling United direct and getting booked on the Chicago to LA, then LA to Sydney flight. So he made it after all.
After a tearful waving of good-byes from us all, he headed off. Made it to the airport and got through the heightened security by 6. Just enough time to grab some food and get onto the plane. I am hoping for smooth travels the rest of the way since I won't rest as well till I know he is touched down and back safely.
He was too quick, He hardly got to stay, It was too quick, It went too fast, etc. it just doesn't sound good.
Jim hopped in the limo to head back to Australia this afternoon. I would have driven him, but with puffy hands and feet, not to mention an antihistamine induced haze, we both decided the limo was a better choice.
He almost didn't get back there today. He called AmEx to change his ticket yesterday and thought he was all set. But his admin called to say that he was booked on Thurs, not Tues. So panic set in. He couldn't call to change until this morning and when he called for today's flight, it was full according to AmEx. UGH. He ended up calling United direct and getting booked on the Chicago to LA, then LA to Sydney flight. So he made it after all.
After a tearful waving of good-byes from us all, he headed off. Made it to the airport and got through the heightened security by 6. Just enough time to grab some food and get onto the plane. I am hoping for smooth travels the rest of the way since I won't rest as well till I know he is touched down and back safely.
Let's hear it for the hives
Well, its official. I have a full blown case of the hives. In fact, one of the worst I can remember.
Woke up this morning and one eye was basically puffed up from underneath and the other was a big puffy eyelid. That was in addition to the hives that grew like a relief map across my stomach, hips, legs, back and arms. Oh... and the best part -- my hand and fingers are puffed up to the point I can hardly bend them.
So, broke down and called the doctor. Couldn't get into see the regular GP, so I called Dr. Kaplan, the allergist. They got me in at 10.45 in Highland Park. Since I was in such a state, mom drove me down so that Jim could finish packing and spend time with the kids.
Dr. Kaplan agreed that is definitely hives. (DUH!) and again didn't know what to make of them. All we have ever been able to figure out is its a reaction to my body breaking down a virus or bacteria. That would be true again since I had been sick since I arrived.
Left Dr. Kaplan's office with four (yes, four!) prescriptions. A new antibiotic in case the Bactrum was making me worse, Allegra for maintenance, prednisone to start putting the hives at bay starting on Wednesday and more of the Atarax to knock me out and hold off the hives. That was in addition to the lovely cortisone shot I received in the left butt cheek. Fun Fun Fun. Now I just have to go back and see him again on Monday for follow-up. Hopefully they will all be gone by then...
At least mom took me to Once Upon a Bagel for lunch. Nothing like good Jewish Kreplach soup and a toasted sesame bagel to kick start the healing. Probably wouldn't have gotten there otherwise, so it was worth it in the end.
Woke up this morning and one eye was basically puffed up from underneath and the other was a big puffy eyelid. That was in addition to the hives that grew like a relief map across my stomach, hips, legs, back and arms. Oh... and the best part -- my hand and fingers are puffed up to the point I can hardly bend them.
So, broke down and called the doctor. Couldn't get into see the regular GP, so I called Dr. Kaplan, the allergist. They got me in at 10.45 in Highland Park. Since I was in such a state, mom drove me down so that Jim could finish packing and spend time with the kids.
Dr. Kaplan agreed that is definitely hives. (DUH!) and again didn't know what to make of them. All we have ever been able to figure out is its a reaction to my body breaking down a virus or bacteria. That would be true again since I had been sick since I arrived.
Left Dr. Kaplan's office with four (yes, four!) prescriptions. A new antibiotic in case the Bactrum was making me worse, Allegra for maintenance, prednisone to start putting the hives at bay starting on Wednesday and more of the Atarax to knock me out and hold off the hives. That was in addition to the lovely cortisone shot I received in the left butt cheek. Fun Fun Fun. Now I just have to go back and see him again on Monday for follow-up. Hopefully they will all be gone by then...
At least mom took me to Once Upon a Bagel for lunch. Nothing like good Jewish Kreplach soup and a toasted sesame bagel to kick start the healing. Probably wouldn't have gotten there otherwise, so it was worth it in the end.
Monday, July 2, 2007
Leaving Dubuque
Monday morning we had to pack up to go back to Illinois. Jim had scheduled a flight out to AUS on Tuesday, so we needed to get back.
I say we packed lightly because I started to get the hives on Sunday again... still dealing with the illness and cast off from it. So Jim got to do alot of the packing.
He also got to golf 9 holes with his dad. From what I can tell, it was one of his better games, with a bunch of (4) pars and a birdie. Nothing like ending the Dubuque golfing on a high note.
It took until 3.20 to finally get on the road. Kids played baseball with Jim
in the backyard for a really long time. Emmalee had a tea party with Grandma Rhomberg, Andrew shot hoops on the driveway and I moved around in a drug (antihistamine) induced haze. Jim even got stuck driving the whole way home since I could definitely NOT stay away.
Got to Mom and Dad's by 7. They had guacamole, salsa and chips waiting. And then we had fajitas for dinner. Funny thing though, it was Australian Tri-tip beef from Trader Joe's. So we go all this way from AUS and still are eating the meat while we are away. But dinner of course was yummy.
Then off to bed for me since I could hardly keep... my....... eyes......... open.
I say we packed lightly because I started to get the hives on Sunday again... still dealing with the illness and cast off from it. So Jim got to do alot of the packing.
He also got to golf 9 holes with his dad. From what I can tell, it was one of his better games, with a bunch of (4) pars and a birdie. Nothing like ending the Dubuque golfing on a high note.
It took until 3.20 to finally get on the road. Kids played baseball with Jim
in the backyard for a really long time. Emmalee had a tea party with Grandma Rhomberg, Andrew shot hoops on the driveway and I moved around in a drug (antihistamine) induced haze. Jim even got stuck driving the whole way home since I could definitely NOT stay away.Got to Mom and Dad's by 7. They had guacamole, salsa and chips waiting. And then we had fajitas for dinner. Funny thing though, it was Australian Tri-tip beef from Trader Joe's. So we go all this way from AUS and still are eating the meat while we are away. But dinner of course was yummy.
Then off to bed for me since I could hardly keep... my....... eyes......... open.
Sunday, July 1, 2007
Fishflies
UGH!!!! If Alfred Hitchock had visited Dubuque, I think he may have added a sequel to the movie, The Birds. It would have been Fishflies.
They are a true irritation, if only a short-lived one. I have been back to Dubuque in the summer with Jim every year and remember those lovely fishflies. My first experience with them was early on in the dating. Bill, Leslie, Jim and I went mini-golfing one night. The fishflies were so bad that they would drop from the sky, land on us and our hair (UGH) and then die on the golf turf. YUCK. They were just thick.
Today was no different, except that it was daytime and the first time the kids got to experience them. They were everywhere. You couldn't walk without crunching. Or open your mouth too long because they would fly in. UGH!!!
Luckily they only live for 5 minutes, in which they fly away from the Mississippi River, find a suitable mate, mate and then attempt to fly back to the river to lay their eggs for the next year's generation of fishflies. I am guessing that the majority of the dead ones on the ground must have been the used up males who didn't make it back to the river to die. You could see the mating pairs flying everywhere... and then one or two would just drop to the ground and die. Interesting circle of life. I think I read they are the shortest living insects in the world.
They are a true irritation, if only a short-lived one. I have been back to Dubuque in the summer with Jim every year and remember those lovely fishflies. My first experience with them was early on in the dating. Bill, Leslie, Jim and I went mini-golfing one night. The fishflies were so bad that they would drop from the sky, land on us and our hair (UGH) and then die on the golf turf. YUCK. They were just thick.
Today was no different, except that it was daytime and the first time the kids got to experience them. They were everywhere. You couldn't walk without crunching. Or open your mouth too long because they would fly in. UGH!!!
Luckily they only live for 5 minutes, in which they fly away from the Mississippi River, find a suitable mate, mate and then attempt to fly back to the river to lay their eggs for the next year's generation of fishflies. I am guessing that the majority of the dead ones on the ground must have been the used up males who didn't make it back to the river to die. You could see the mating pairs flying everywhere... and then one or two would just drop to the ground and die. Interesting circle of life. I think I read they are the shortest living insects in the world.
Touring Dubuque
The riverfront of Dubuque has been undergoing a face lift for almost as long as I have known Jim. There was some pretty bad flooding when we were first dating, but they got that fixed up and have a very nice 'sea'wall to help with that in the future when the Mississippi River decides to overflow its banks.
Jim's dad had been itching to take us all down to see some of the new changes, including the old Rhomberg family brewery, the Dubuque Star Brewery. It had been purchased last year and now that some of the renovations are done, it houses the Stone Cliff Winery and will have a restaurant and bar soon, too. Jim did a little tasting and came home with one of their Chardonnays.
We spent some time looking at the historical objects and photos they have collected. We also got a 'great' view of the Fish Flies (or Mayflies). That seems to be a right of passage in Dubuque. UGH. They were everywhere. More on those later...
After seeing the Winery, the riverfront and hotel (of course checking out the restrooms, too!) we headed over to the historic Shot Tower. Its one of the last standing shot towers in the US -- where they used to melt lead and drop it from an amazing height through screens to create lead shot. Leslie says that Bill has always been fascinated with it, so no trip is complete to the riverfront without seeing it!
Off to the Shot Tower Inn for pizza. Its one of the Bill & Leslie traditions that can't be skipped. We had pizza and a couple of sandwiches for Jim and me -- we didn't want to mar our great dinner of Happy Joe's the couple of nights before. Kids got to play the video games that eat quarters and everyone was happy.
Jim's dad had been itching to take us all down to see some of the new changes, including the old Rhomberg family brewery, the Dubuque Star Brewery. It had been purchased last year and now that some of the renovations are done, it houses the Stone Cliff Winery and will have a restaurant and bar soon, too. Jim did a little tasting and came home with one of their Chardonnays.
We spent some time looking at the historical objects and photos they have collected. We also got a 'great' view of the Fish Flies (or Mayflies). That seems to be a right of passage in Dubuque. UGH. They were everywhere. More on those later...
After seeing the Winery, the riverfront and hotel (of course checking out the restrooms, too!) we headed over to the historic Shot Tower. Its one of the last standing shot towers in the US -- where they used to melt lead and drop it from an amazing height through screens to create lead shot. Leslie says that Bill has always been fascinated with it, so no trip is complete to the riverfront without seeing it!
Off to the Shot Tower Inn for pizza. Its one of the Bill & Leslie traditions that can't be skipped. We had pizza and a couple of sandwiches for Jim and me -- we didn't want to mar our great dinner of Happy Joe's the couple of nights before. Kids got to play the video games that eat quarters and everyone was happy.
Resting with Food...
This afternoon, heavy on the AFTER, because I insisted that Emmalee take a rest. She had been up late for an uncountable number of days and we all could see her fuse was remarkably short. And a short fuse on her makes my fuse even shorter.
She insisted that she wasn't tired. I was being unreasonable. But suprisingly the offer of sitting on my lap and watching the Food Network was enough to make her say yes to RESTING, not sleeping. We hopped into Grandpa Rhomberg's Lazy-boy and settled in to watch the end of a cartoon inspired cake decorating contest. It's amazing what they can do with cakes and fondant. She was hoping the next show would be Rachael Ray, but it was the Food Network's reality show about chefs... The Next FOOD Star.
About seven minutes is all she lasted then out like a light. Jim helped to peel her off of me long enough for me to escape the LazyBoy and try to catch some zzzzzz's on the couch. When they woke me at 4, about 45 minutes later she was still snoozing away.
She insisted that she wasn't tired. I was being unreasonable. But suprisingly the offer of sitting on my lap and watching the Food Network was enough to make her say yes to RESTING, not sleeping. We hopped into Grandpa Rhomberg's Lazy-boy and settled in to watch the end of a cartoon inspired cake decorating contest. It's amazing what they can do with cakes and fondant. She was hoping the next show would be Rachael Ray, but it was the Food Network's reality show about chefs... The Next FOOD Star.
About seven minutes is all she lasted then out like a light. Jim helped to peel her off of me long enough for me to escape the LazyBoy and try to catch some zzzzzz's on the couch. When they woke me at 4, about 45 minutes later she was still snoozing away.
Have we been shopping yet???
Let me see, it's day 7 of the trip and I have made at least 3 trips to Kohl's (need those clothes since I don't have any). One trip to Wal-mart in IL for stuff (things I can't get in AUS), two trips to Sam's club for clothes/food stuff (found Lipton Soup mix and some shorts for Jim -- one trip was for Jim so he could look). Then there was the trip to Walgreens to get Kleenex for Emmalee (and Twizzlers, Reeses Peanut Butter Cups and Frappucino for Jim). Need to go to Target since they have the double DVD player for the car on sale. Onl y $129 for two 7" screens. Gotta get that for those road trips Jim keeps threatening to take us on in AUS.
That doesn't count the planned trips to Trader Joe's, Costco and more. Oh the shopping!
That doesn't count the planned trips to Trader Joe's, Costco and more. Oh the shopping!
Suitcase Watch 2007 Part IV
Sunday is here and no suitcase yet. UGH. Shopping yet again for me. How terrible is that??? Actually I keep remembering things that I had in the suitcase and now don't have. It is really going to add up.
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